The Aylesburian - 2016/2017

THE

AYLESBURIAN

2016/2017

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CONTENTS FOR THE

AYLESBURIAN The magazine of Aylesbury Grammar School Headmaster’s Welcome

4

Staff Leavers

8

House Life

13

Sport

26

School Life

55

School Visits

65

PTA

88

School Development & Alumni

92

Prize Winners

98

Editorial Team Design and Printed by Fresh Design & Print Solutions Ltd Email: hello@freshdps.co.uk Copyright © Aylesbury Grammar School 2017. Individual articles are copyright © the author. All right reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means, without the prior permission writing of the school, or as ecpressly permitted by law, or under terms agreed with the appropriate reprographs right organistion.

Mr G Dallas Leo Blackman Lee Saunders Patrick Walters Adam Woodage Joe Youens-Brown The Aylesburian 2016/2017

3

HEADMASTER’S WELCOME It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to the Aylesburian magazine for 2016-2017. This publication stands as the definitive historical reference for the School and so we hope that you enjoy reading the articles.

record number of students achieving their first choice of university course and for the GCSE students gaining entry to the Sixth Form or College to further their studies.

curriculum in 2017.

As the academic year has progressed we have seen the departure of a number of key staff and governors. Mr Barth (Physics)

These outcomes, important as they

retired in January 2017, Mrs Hughes

are, only demonstrate a small part

(Mathematics and Pupil Premium

of what Aylesbury Grammar School

Champion) departed in May 2017

Our thanks go to Mr Dallas and

is as a school. Nonetheless, they

and in the summer we say goodbye

the whole editorial team for this

placed us in the top 100 schools in

to Mr Friar (Chemistry), Mrs Lillywhite

year’s production. We would also

England. The new accountability

(French, Spanish, Classics) and Mrs

like to express our thanks to Mr

measure from the government

Thomas (French).

Ramsbottom who, after many years

(progress 8) was statistically

as chief editor, has passed the baton

significant to place us in the top 25%

On the governing body we have also

of Schools across the country. As this

lost the experience and expertise of

is a measure based on the students’

Mr Paul Buckland (OA) who remains

individual progress relative to their

as a Foundation Trustee, but has

starting points, this is something

had to step down as Chairman of

for us to be rightly pleased with.

the Aylesbury Grammar School

However, we do not rest on our

Foundation and a Foundation

The examination cohorts of 2016

laurels and our evaluation of the

Governor. We would like to thank

once again produced a fine set of

examination series in 2016 has led

Paul for all his contribution to the life

outcomes. Their endeavours led to a

to further developments across the

of the School.

on. His contribution to documenting the life of the School has led to many publications of the Aylesburian that have been enjoyed by parents, staff and students alike.

4

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

House Music was adjudicated by Jules Buckley (OA), we were visited

by Theo James (OA) to open the Sixth Form refurbishment and in Science the new laboratories were opened by Professor Robert Winston.

As well as the Sixth Form and Science refurbishments, we also welcomed friends and colleagues of Professor William Mead (OA) to open the new Professor William Mead Library. The executors of Professor Mead’s estate opened the facility and we add our thanks to them for supporting such an

We close out 2016-2017 with

important and exciting development

the anticipation of another set

for the School. It is the support of

of examination outcomes in the

OAs, parents, governors, staff, local

summer, another year of learning

business, trusts and the government

and developing with the excitement

that has enabled us to make such

of a new cohort of Aylesburians set

a significant impact on the learning

to start their journey in September.

of the students across Science,

Thank you to all the staff, parents,

the Sixth Form and the Library. We

governors, students and friends of

thank everyone who has made these

the School. We hope you enjoy this

developments possible.

publication.

reiterate the values we would wish

I would like to pay my gratitude

M Sturgeon

of society. A time for Aylesbury

and thanks to the influential and

Headteacher

Grammar School to continue to

irreplaceable, Gillian Miscampbell

educate our young men in order that

OBE. As a Foundation Governor,

they reflect our values of respect and

Trustee, former Chair and having

aspiration, of humility and excellence,

seen six headteachers, sons and

and have the strength and courage

grandsons go through the School,

to free themselves from the events

after over 40 years service Gillian

that surround them in order to lead

retires as an active governor. Her

the next generation to a bright and

wisdom, guidance and sharp wit will

peaceful future.

be greatly missed and our immense

2016-2017 will be remembered for some interesting changes in global politics, desperate and heart breaking events across the world and a general sense of instability.

It is now, therefore, that education stands as the true opportunity to

At the School over the year we have been visited by some phenomenal

thanks go out to her for all she has contributed over many years.

OAs and world renowned individuals.

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

5

Head Boy’s Reflections 2016 - 17 nourished, with students continuing to show individuality whilst remaining strongly bound to the community that AGS provides. It is this tightknit, competitive yet harmonious community which remains at the epicentre of AGS. The development of this year 13 cohort is owed very much to such a community, which could not have been created without the tireless work of all those teachers who have supported us throughout our school lives. We owe an incredible debt to every teacher

Get out there, do what you love

year of 2016-17 has only served to

doing, don’t let anyone knock

bolster this and will be a year that will

you and just have a go.

be etched in the memories of many

This year stands to validate this statement immensely. Students’ eagerness to step out of their comfort zone and put themselves

as a year of great improvement, in terms of both the school infrastructure

who has played a part in our lives over the last 7 years, and I would like to personally thank them all for their tireless, selfless work, even through the roughest of times.

and the outlook of students. This year

To our year 13 cohort, I would like

has marked significant progress in

to thank you all for becoming such

the continued evolution of AGS, with

‘out there’ has been epitomised this

an extensive family of brilliant guys.

the implementation of the brand-

year by events such as House Music

It has been a pleasure to know you

new William Mead library and the

and House Public Speaking, where

all so well, and to have spent my

refurbishment of the Sixth Form

students from across all year groups

AGS career with you all. I feel wholly

Centre, refreshing learning and

indebted to all the head boys of

stood up on the school stage and did

providing an outstanding environment

house and their deputies, who have

something they were equally terrified

in which students can excel.

helped so much this year with the

and enthused by.

This material improvement has It was this aspirational environment

been paralleled by further internal

that I endeavoured to maintain

advancements, as students of

and encourage as Head Boy and

AGS continually demonstrate great

something that I have been lucky

character and individuality through

enough to witness first hand. Having

a vast array of occupations. From

joined Aylesbury Grammar in year 9,

astonishingly talented musicians to

I was instantly imbued by the energy

the sportsmen who are competing

and passion that was ingrained

at national level in the likes of

within this school. The academic

Kayaking, this passion has been

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The Aylesburian 2016/2017

organisation of countless events. To Michael Ng and Joe Kearney, my Deputy Head Boys of school, I owe my sincerest thanks. It has been a pleasure to lead this year with you both. I would like to wish everyone from AGS the best in the future, teachers and students alike. It has been an amazing year, thank you all.

Oli Brown – Paterson 13

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AYLESBURY GRAMMAR SCHOOL

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7

STAFF LEAVERS Andrea Thomas

numerous to mention, so a snapshot must suffice. There have, as I hope

Audrey Lillywhite

Andrea will recall, been many joyous moments to compensate for the stress of taking away 40+ teenagers to a foreign country. In the time of the Year 9 homestay visits, the pre-cursor of the current French Exchange, Andrea led a number of successful trips to Paris and has helped forge the relationships we now enjoy with our colleagues and partner schools in Bourg en Bresse.

For many years she was part of the German team which took groups of Year 8 boys to Cologne and indeed on occasion, the German Exchange

Andrea Thomas has taught

to Stuttgart and has accompanied the

Audrey Lillywhite is leaving

at AGS since 1995 and is

Year 8 French trip both when Parc

us after 14 years, having

retiring after 21 years teaching

Astérix was the destination and now

arrived here initially to teach a

French and German in the

the rural delights of Normandy.

small amount of lower school

Languages Department, and her departure does mark the end of something of an era in Languages at AGS. She deserves some kind of award for

During the period when AGS enjoyed Language Specialism funding, Andrea shared her language teaching expertise with a number of local primary schools and will no

French. She has since established herself as an indispensable part of both the Languages and Classics departments. She has taught French, Spanish and Latin, and in addition

having had to tolerate the same

doubt have been pleased to see a

has always been willing to embrace

Head of Department for 20 of those

number of those boys subsequently

new ideas for the classroom. Her

21 years. Having spent a number of

come and thrive here. We will miss

teaching is always characterised by

years living in France, she brought a

Andrea as both a friend and a

kindness and a commitment to her

wealth of knowledge and experience

colleague and the school is losing a

students and a real enthusiasm for

to the classroom. Though part time

superb languages teacher. We wish

her subjects.

for most of her time at the school,

her and her family every possible

she has always worked well beyond

happiness for the future.

that, to ensure the success of her students over the years, who have

Mr T Crapper

gained enormously from her energy, commitment and determination to bring out the best in them.

For many years Audrey has taken responsibility for the Year 8 French Trip, so will have been responsible for taking hundreds of boys to Paris, Parc Astérix and latterly, Normandy.

On a number of occasions she has also helped accompany the French

The number of trips Andrea has

Exchange to Bourg en Bresse and

given her time to are almost too

help us forge those important links

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The Aylesburian 2016/2017

with our partner schools. For a languages teacher, such trips are

Debra Hughes

In 2011 Debra took on the responsibility of mentoring trainee

virtually part of the job description,

teachers in the department, a role

but Audrey has always been willing to

she continued for six years showing

give of her time to other departments;

great commitment to each and every

the Lake District and other less

trainee. She will have had a very

exotic locations with the Geography

positive influence over many aspiring

Department, and to the not entirely

Maths teachers; I am sure her input

undemanding Year 7 Residential.

will have been much appreciated and her example hopefully replicated in

Audrey has always shown a

some small measure.

commitment to lifelong learning, and her desire to improve her subject

Debra’s dedication and commitment

knowledge when taking on new

to always doing the best for the

challenges has always impressed,

students and trainee teachers in

giving up one weekend a half term

her care have been unwavering.

to expand her knowledge of Latin.

Understandably, given her intense

She stepped up to be the resident Classics expert on the Bay of Naples trip in a time of need, without having been before.

Debra joined the Maths Department as a full time teacher in 2010 arriving with much energy and lots of ideas.

contribution she decided to become part-time for the last two years; she has now decided to leave in order to allow more time for family life and to enjoy the new foothold her family

In addition to her teaching at AGS,

Her drive and enthusiasm soon saw

in past years several local primary

her involved with the wider work of

schools, needing to fulfil their

the department including preparing

Debra’s energy, enthusiasm,

requirement to teach a modern

students for team maths challenges

friendship and tenacious positive

foreign language, benefitted from

and trialling extension ideas for gifted

outlook will be missed by all, not

Audrey’s expertise as part of the

and talented students.

least by all in the Maths team.

She has since extended her

Mr C Smith

school’s language specialism outreach. We will miss Audrey’s friendship and she will be missed in more than one department as a colleague, as well as by the small eco-system which is the staff room balcony. We do wish Audrey and her family every happiness as they prepare to move to Wales, back towards the Celtic fringes. Perhaps another language to master?

Mr T Crapper

have found in Dorset.

attentions beyond the Maths Department acting as school Pupil Premium Champion for two years, to help remove any obstacles to maximising progress for all students both at AGS and in our local primary schools. This has included organising many AGS Year 12 students (along with AHS girls) in providing extension activities for primary pupils.

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

9

STAFF LEAVERS Eric Friar

his legacies will be the huge three

Ann supported the department

dimensional model of DNA he has

admirably through the huge

assembled over the past year which

science refurbishment project and

has since been nicknamed….Eric!

through curriculum changes across key stages 4 and 5. As well as

He has an exciting year in prospect

demonstrating her dedication to

as he gets married during the

ensuring that students and teachers

summer and moves to Reading

received the vital practical equipment

where he will be taking up a new

required to efficiently resource

Chemistry teaching post.

learning, she also had time to be

We send our very best wishes to him.

Dr C Gardner

a good listener. I know that this is a quality that all members of the department appreciated.

We wished Ann a fond farewell

Eric Friar joined AGS in

Ann Goodin

in October as she moved into the next great adventure in life, namely

June 2010 immediately after

retirement. She spoke of plans to

completing his science PGCE.

spend a lot more time in the garden,

He brought with him not only a

however I believe that she has

deep knowledge and interest in

been too busy to let the grass grow

Chemistry, Biochemistry and Science

beneath her feet.

in general but also wider experience

Mr J Kemp

of working in the world outside school including work for the Health and Safety Executive and working for and volunteering with agencies supporting ex-prisoners and the homeless.

During his time at AGS, in addition to delivering some excellent results with GCSE and A-level Chemistry

Ann retired in October 2016

classes and his work in KS3 science

after 18 years of service

he was a Denson House tutor and

to the school as a science

accompanied numerous school visits.

technician. Her most recent post

He has been a stalwart member

was as Principal Physics Technician,

of the school’s Health and Safety

a job which requires a high level

Committee and supported the Duke

of organisation and a wealth of

of Edinburgh Award scheme. One of

interpersonal skills.

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The Aylesburian 2016/2017

Rebecca Wilson

Andy Barth

Rebecca enjoyed her lunchtime duties and interacting with the students. It was also a chance to increase the number of steps on her Fitbit, much to the annoyance of her deskbound colleagues who wanted to win the Workweek Hustle. Rebecca is a well respected member of staff, always calm, friendly and efficient, never too busy to deal with any problems. Her financial knowledge is vast and she always seems to have the answer to any question. She has enjoyed attending various cabaret evenings, School drama productions and plenty of lunches and dinners

Andy Barth joined the Physics

with colleagues.

Rebecca Wilson joined AGS as Finance Manager in January 2012. She has overseen a complete change in the way the department works and its responsibilities.

Gone are the countless envelopes containing cash and cheques for

department in July 2009 and

While line managing the Premises Department we have seen some great changes in the fabric of the School.

said his goodbyes in December 2016. A valued member of the department he worked hard to

Refurbished squash courts and hall,

accomplish many of the tasks faced

new science labs, improved heating,

by a teacher, contributing to the

a new library and sixth form area.

implementation of new KS4 and KS5

educational visits, the School is

Rebecca leaves us to take up a post

courses. He was dedicated to his

now almost completely cashless.

at the Royal Latin School where her

work and did all he could to maximise

We have new financial systems,

daughter was a student, her son is

the achievements of his students. We

an online School uniform shop and

about to enter the sixth form and

thank him and wish him well in his

salaries are processed in School. Not

hopefully her youngest son will join

retirement.

content with just running the AGS

her there next year. There are big

Finance Department, she took on the

changes ahead with a new role,

finance and administration for The

shorter commute and hours and her

Buckinghamshire Grammar Schools

daughter going off to Plymouth to

and the Bucks Teaching School

study medicine. Hopefully, she will

project. She gained a Business

be able to spend more time with her

Management qualification and was

family at her parents’ holiday home in

promoted to Finance Director and the

Polzeath. We wish Rebecca the very

SLT in 2014.

best for the future.

Mr J Kemp

Mr M Sturgeon

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

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STAFF LEAVERS Jean Alexander

Bursars/Business Managers over the

She contributed valuable suggestions

years, she certainly proved that she

about the learning environment to

could get on with people whatever

ensure students learnt about the

their personality.

We will miss her terribly and hope that she misses us, just a little bit.

Good luck Jeanie for the future and enjoy all those lovely days with your little ones.

Mrs V Kennedy

Lisa Rowland

resources and how to use them effectively.

In 2012 Lisa changed roles to become a Senior Biology Technician.

Lisa has ensured that students have been provided with the apparatus, chemicals and specimens they needed to carry out practical work, so important to their understanding and enjoyment of Biology. She has supported the department

Decorating, walking, reading,

superbly for the past 5 years with

theatre going, travelling,

her organisational skills and can

socialising with friends and

do approach. We were particularly

above all a wonderful grandma to her two grandchildren Zac

grateful for all her help and advice

and Ivy….how on earth did

when we moved the Department

she ever find the time to work

into the new Biology block which

in our busy Finance Office?

was opened in October 2015. Many

For 17 years Jean was the ‘go to’

of the design features of the new

person in Finance, if you messed

laboratories and preparation rooms

it up Jean would sort it out, if you forgot to complete a green order form

incorporated suggestions by Lisa

Lisa Rowland joined Aylesbury

which means the facilities work so

problem, of course Jean would sort it

Grammar School as a

effectively in practice. Lisa has also

out! Forthright, yet brilliantly friendly,

Food Technician school in

helped on a number of school trips.

Jean was great to have around but

September 2007 where she

She leaves AGS to give more time to

did not suffer fools gladly as some

was very much involved in

her family and we all wish her well.

certainly found out to their cost. An

setting up the new Food Room

expert at ParentPay, ticket sales,

with all its equipment. We are

Mrs M Wilkinson

MUFTI day collections and all things

most indebted to her for her positive

Mr M Pilkington

financial Jean was always there to

approach to practical details in

make sure that things were right.

ensuring that all equipment was

Having worked with around seven

prepared for all practical lessons.

Jean would sort it out, if you had a

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The Aylesburian 2016/2017

HOUSE LIFE Denson House Report While 2016 fairly quickly, and justifiably, garnered a reputation for being a somewhat bleak one for the annals, on a personal (and, therefore, admittedly rather selfish) level, it figured two considerable highlights.

It would be entirely remiss of me not to namecheck the birth of my and Victoria’s baby daughter Saffron in February last year – a truly memorable and uplifting experience.

But through the ensuing haze of soiled nappies and sleep deprivation, another beacon of jubilation shone out in May: that of becoming Head of Denson House.

Having been a Denson tutor for four years already, it was a great honour and fortuitous coincidence that it was a post in this House. It was much easier leaving my role as a tutor with a group who I have come to admire and care about greatly, knowing that I was still to be part of the same House as them. In taking on this role, I was, of course, to fill the large shoes (size

12, in fact) of the well-established and popular Mr Hill, who had done a great job with a wonderful set of students for seven years previously. I have much to thank him for in terms of guidance and support, both in the previous years, and in the transition period last summer (as well as the memory of a house assembly of his, in which unwitting participants consumed chocolate-coated Brussel sprouts – enthusiastically, at first. There was a moral in there somewhere).

Since September 2016, through to July 2017, it has been a wonderful first year as Head of House, and I can honestly say I have loved every moment of it. In short, it is a superb opportunity to get to know the students beyond the classroom, and for them to develop on a personal level in the forum of friendly competitions. Well, mostly friendly. I was lucky, too, to have support this year from some great Head Boys of House – Ben Haigh, James Maddern and Declan Miller, together with the might of Denson 13, featuring such

talented luminaries as Josh Jamieson, Will Robinson and Connor Mulholland.

Having last been with them as a group in English, when they were Denson 9, including studying Lord of the Flies, I was glad to see they had largely all matured more into a group of ‘Ralphs’ than ‘Jacks’.

Of course, it may well have proved to be a rookie error – of gross overenthusiasm winning over cool-headed reserve – when I was reminded of the fact that Denson has been suffering a prolonged period of ‘a-trophy’.

That is, we have not won one in quite some time – not the Brodie nor Watson overall, at least. Since 2005 and 2001 respectively, to be specific.

I used this as a basis for one of my first House assemblies – including listing the top films and pop songs of this era (the first Harry Potter film, in the case of 2001). In my time here, we have always placed well in each event – in the top half for the Watson, and usually mid-table for the Brodie.

Very respectable, therefore – but just missing that top spot.

And, alas, so that legacy continues!

For another year, at any rate. We came a decent 4th in the Brodie (one point behind Phillips in 3rd) and 2nd in the Watson – crucially, just one point behind deserved winners Paterson – to my knowledge, our closest result yet in these last 16 years! In retrospect, it was perhaps wildly optimistic to hope to win one of these coveted trophies in my first year in the role – but I am exceptionally proud of the boys’ fantastic efforts and determination here; and it has once again proved that we are absolute contenders. We ended the year with four individual event trophies on the main corridor board (only one fewer

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

13

HOUSE LIFE than top trophy-winners, Paterson).

On the Brodie side, we were somewhat unlucky – as has proved elsewhere – to come 5th overall in Cross-Country. Unlucky, as we were only a point behind what might have otherwise been 3rd. We had some fantastic runs too, with Seniors coming 2nd – including an excellent 3rd place (out of 70) for Sam Stembridge-King of 11De, bearing in mind he was running against mostly 6th formers. Our crowning success in the first term, though, was a trophy for House Squash – our Inters and Juniors (led by the Connor brothers) coming 1st in their sections, but with some able assistance from Seniors and Year 7s. A 4th overall place in Rugby was encouraging, too, following on from an outright last the previous year: I was proud to see the likes of our Year 9s and Year 10s, in particular, coming 3rd in their sections through hard-fought games against tough competition. Although this was countered, this year at least, with an unfortunate last House place for Basketball – which I know we can improve next year. Even here, however, there were positives: a great 3rd place by our spirited Year 7s, and an even better 2nd spot for our Year 8s, who have really come on this year overall.

Our House efforts took something of a dent on both sides of the competition in the middle of the year, however.

On this side, it was another last in House Swimming. That said, there cannot be too many last place Houses in Swimming, in which participants have also broken a school record.

This accolade went to our Inters, for their barnstorming relay event – with Rakin Gilani, Alex Reidy, George

14

Plummer and our ‘human fish’, Cam Brooker, ploughing through waters of a distinctly Denson blue. We picked up again magnificently with House Football – our second Brodie event trophy win for the year. This followed some nifty footwork by senior year groups in the Sports Hall Futsal – with a 1st for our Year 11s and 2nd for our Year 10s. Our Juniors went on to seal the deal on Fete day, including a comprehensive 1st for our first-time Year 7s – cementing an excellent year for captain Joe Barber and others in his team.

Having, at one point been running last overall in the Brodie, a first in Football, then 4th places in House Athletics and Tennis, helped bump us up to a 4th overall final spot, in what had proved to be a very close-run thing in the 3rd to 6th places. What made me particularly proud with these occasions, though, was the determination and input by individual members of the House – including returning Year 11s and 13s from study leave: the likes of Will Robinson and David Webb (the day after their exams finished!), running a brilliant Denson Seniors’ relay – to add to some excellent final relays, including a 1st spot for our Year 7s, powered home by Will Cliffe. As well as our very own Roger Federer, Elliott Abdey (Denson 11), coming back to secure our Tennis Inters a fine 2nd spot. Their commitment here really made me proud to be part of their House.

Where to start with the Watson side?

We have proved, this year again, that we can very much ‘do’ Chess, Quiz and Public Speaking; we are definitely contenders in Writing especially, and Art. We are not, however, having much of a time of things with House

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Music still. As with the Brodie, our careful efforts in this tournament were once again blown off course by this event in the middle of the year. Unlike the Brodie, it really is this one event that seems to cost us.

Indeed, so dejected has the mood in the Denson music camp become, there is a prevailing feeling that we could field the Berlin Philharmonic, the original Led Zeppelin line-up and even Michael Ng, all under the guise of Denson – and still come last. But we are taking constructive criticism on board, and very much becoming the living embodiment of resilience.

Plans are afoot already. We will survive! And, more to the point, endeavour to bag more than one lonely Watson point in 2018. Despite our repeated last place this year, we had a wonderful time – Connor Mulholland put in a huge amount of work as captain; Ben Harding and band brought back the spirit of primetime Stevie Wonder with Sir Duke; Xav Atkins and co brought the Hall to a spellbound silence with their rendition of New York State of Mind in particular – so much so, we could hear Xav’s mobile ringing in his pocket in time with the final notes; and our largest House choir revived stadium-era Queen with Radio GaGa; all held together by the excellent Josh Jamieson and Michael Adebiyi as comperes. The boys did us proud.

I loved our House Art this year – with the theme of ‘Film’. Once again, Josh Jamieson, together with co-captains Zain Hassan and Finn Walsh, and form captains, helped increase our submissions and put in the hours for some eye-catching displays. Particular credit must go to those who also rose to the challenge of making short

came a decisive 1st place in the July event for the second year running.

Our speakers – Dan Compton (Denson 7), Will Chapman (Denson 8) and Michael Adebiyi (Denson 9) – really put in the hours, together with the Seniors’ help. Once again, the Watson by that stage was just out of our grasp – Paterson’s 3rd place in Public Speaking securing it for them.

But it was tantalisingly close!

films, which were screened via some display called a Raspberry Pie (I still think the IT technicians are winding me up). Well done to the stop-motion handiwork of Danyal Uddin (Denson 10), as well as digital wizardry of Tharrshann Logarajah and David Gasinkski (Denson 8) here, as well as some brilliant main display pieces, not least Joe Stembridge-King’s ‘Jaws’ ceramic model. We certainly have individual talent, coming joint 3rd. With House Writing, I really do not think I could have asked for more from a superlative Year 12 Denson editing unit – Will Terrett, Tom Wright, Karsten Allers, Dan Comerford, and the design flair of Finn Walsh. We doubled our submissions this year, in what was the most polished finished Denson magazine I have seen, and with some very insightful, imaginative and evocative ‘Mirrors’-related pieces.

A real hats off to Will here, as well, for getting eight different members of the House to translate a stanza of a poem each into a second language of theirs – both imaginative and innovative. A 3rd place here in a tough, competitive year.

With two of the ‘Big Three’ Watson

events gaining us some particularly useful, if not top-flight marks, we had to bring out our big brains for the other three intellectual pursuits. Ridley claimed our Chess crown this year, beating us to second in a hard-fought and very close all Denson-Ridley final - our Inters did particularly well coming 1st in their section. I had the great pleasure of running House Quiz this year, across four sections – and it was impressive how much students from across Houses and year groups knew, as some of the rounds were really not easy. Remaining entirely impartial here, of course, I was nonetheless proud to see Denson reach joint 1st with Ridley in this event - our Inters and Juniors in particular buoying our score: with the likes of ‘quiz machine’ Fitz Steger-Lewis (Denson 10), we certainly have our encyclopaedia’s worth of knowledge in the House! And, last but not least, I was delighted that we retained our Public Speaking trophy this year, too.

Our Seniors – Josh Jamieson, Xav Atkins, Sam Stembridge-King and Tom Ward – did an excellent job in the autumn, coming an effective 2nd place. Their hard work led the way to our triumphant Juniors again, who

Really, I could not have asked more from some superb teamwork and input from the whole House. All of this has been shown through some excellent captaincy work within forms and sections, together with senior leadership; I am excited and proud to have my old tutor group holding the reins next year, including the new Denson Head boys of House – Tanmay Mahesh, Finn Walsh and Shafiea Khan, who are already doing sterling work. And many thanks, of course, go to a wonderful group of supportive tutors – Mr Kemp, Mr Friar, Miss Rowling, Mr Goff, Mr Smith, Mrs Burnett and Mr Datta. We are sad to say farewell to Mr Friar, who leaves AGS after seven years as a Denson tutor, but wish him the very best.

There are myriad others I would like to thank, too, not least the other Heads of House and Mr Dallas, for their kind words, advice and general friendly competitive spirit.

All it really leaves me to say is, well done Denson. Here comes another year, another clean sheet of opportunity. Ganbatte!

Mr A Streat

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

15

HOUSE LIFE Hampden House Report

business and selected the best for submission, front and back covers were designed and Quinn Smethurst,

Having not won the Watson or Brodie competitions since 2010, last year’s Watson win came as a real boost for the house and was just reward for all the hard work and effort put in by so many. When viewed purely as

House Music this year brought

together with Joe Weir and Charles

about stress, lots of rehearsals, last

Howley, did a fantastic job putting

minute decisions, more stress and

the whole thing together ready for

then a set of performances that blew

submission. Again, a lot of hard work

away some of our rivals. This year,

and last minute changes had to take

Hampden House exceeded a lot of

place in order to get the magazine

people’s expectations and our efforts

in on time, but it all came together

a competition, defending this trophy,

on the night definitely surprised a few.

beautifully in the end and resulted in

as well as improving our standing in

Not only were we able to perform

a fantastic 2nd place finish and five

the Brodie was always going to be a

fantastic technical pieces but we also

points for the house, which is easily

test and although we finished with no

managed to do something that very

the best finish that Hampden has

trophy to our name, the House should

few thought would be possible: we

achieved in House Writing for a very

be proud that it managed to sustain a

covered ‘History’ by One Direction

long time!

serious challenge in both competitions

with great style and discovered the most unlikely boy band in the form of

The intellectual muscle of the house

until things took a downward turn in late June, early July (particularly in

Rob Paripovic, Mike Grimwood, Dan

The Brodie).

Bedwell and Tom Robertson. All boys

3rd overall, thanks largely to the

who performed on the night were Over the last few years, Senior Public

efforts of our Senior teams, who both

fantastic and fully contributed to an

Speaking has provided us with a

finished with top marks.

impressive 3rd place finish and 4 very

strong start to the Watson, but despite

well deserved points.

was once again demonstrated in House Quiz, where we finished joint

With 2 points already earned from the Seniors in Senior Public Speaking in

the work and preparation put in by Theo Nze, Matt Bird, Ayaan Ashraf

House Chess followed for the House

September, in July it was the turn of

and Ashon Subramanian, our 5th

and teams were selected, in some

the Juniors who put in a particularly

cases, through a rigorous process of

impressive set of performances to

intra-form competition to decide on

finish 2nd and give us a 2nd place

places and promises were made by

finish overall in public speaking. Tom

particularly impressive.

members of the senior team as to

Kirkpatrick-Brown (Hampden 7), Seb

getting a positive result for the house.

Shah (Hampden 8) and David Dallas

Moving onto Art, led by Ethan

Unfortunately, this didn’t quite happen

(Hampden 9) were all fantastic as

Elsenburg, Harry White, Nick

despite the best efforts of all who were

speakers, while a huge thank you

Worthy, Tom Huntington and Wasiq

involved and unfortunately we finished

needs to go out to Miss Holliday and

Chaudhary, with considerable

in a disappointing 6th place, gaining

her Sixth Form team for preparing

help from Head Boy of House Rob

just one point towards our Watson

these guys so well.

Paripovic, we experienced another

Trophy defence, making it an event

fantastic team effort and by coming

we really need to focus on next year.

place finish was lower than we were perhaps anticipating. Despite this, Matt’s 1st place and Ayaan’s 3rd were

2nd, we came very close to emulating last year’s great win, showcasing the artistic talent that we have within Hampden across all year groups.

16

Finishing joint 3rd place in the Watson overall, just two points off first place,

As April approached, pieces were

represented a fantastic effort in our

submitted for the House Writing

attempt at retaining the Watson

competition. Maybe not in the

trophy and, in reality, it was only the

quantities that we were hoping for,

comparatively poor result in House

but the editing team went about its

Chess that stopped us from finishing

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

The introduction of Indoor Futsal was excellent for different reasons, as the Year 11s were extremely impressive and well deserved their 2nd place finish, thanks to the silky skills of James Richardson and his team. The Seniors finished 6th, despite their best efforts, while the Year 10s played strongly to finish 3rd. This gave us a really good foundation in the Futsal competition, with the junior Football still to come.

higher. All who were involved this year

were inspired by the significant efforts

in any of the Watson events should be

of Onyeka Ewuzie in particular. The

extremely proud of their efforts, as this

overall position in Basketball was a

trophy usually requires a great deal

little disappointing, particularly after

of time and commitment, as well as

last year’s joint 1st finish, but this is

talent and ability.

definitely a competition we can do

As an indicator to how we would approach the new year and the Brodie

much better in next year, particularly at a senior level.

Trophy within that, Cross Country

Squash was the complete opposite to

showed that we were definitely up

Basketball, in so far as we managed

for the challenge. In the Year 7 & 8

to turn around last year’s 6th place

event we came 2nd, in the 9 & 10s

to finish in a tie for 2nd, which was a

6th and our Seniors (Yrs 11, 12 &

plus point for the house and put us in

13) recorded an impressive 1st place

a good position in the Brodie before

finish, meaning we finished 2nd

the Christmas break.

overall. Easily our best start in the Brodie for a long time, thanks to some

Another event that strengthened our position in the Brodie was House

We finished on 15.5 points in House Swimming, just one and a half points behind the joint 1st place houses, which were Phillips and Lee. At the end of the morning session, we were in 2nd place, which really highlighted how tight the competition was overall and how close we were to finishing higher. It really was a fantastic team effort and I want to thank all boys who competed on the day. The Seniors and Year 7s were excellent and finished 3rd in their competitions, while the Juniors were outstanding and won their event convincingly.

While it didn’t quite happen for the Inters on the day, it was not as a result of a lack of effort on their part and all came together to give us four excellent house points.

after last year’s promising 3rd place

We therefore went into the last three Brodie events of the year with the chance of finishing higher than we had for a long time, potentially in

finish we again made significant

the top three places, however the

With the year’s next event the

improvements to finish joint 2nd

illustrious House Basketball, highlights

overall. The year 7s excelled to win

following results had a huge impact

of our joint 4th place finish came from

their competition, while the excellent

the 2nd place finish from the ever-

Year 9s once again finished in 2nd

competitive Hampden 9, who keep

place thanks to the efforts of Toby

pushing to take the overall win in their

Cook, James Phillips, Tom Kemp,

year group, as well an impressive 2nd

Alex Butler, Jasper Smith, Sean

place finish from our Inters team, who

Bedwell et al!

impressive runs from Alex Hodson and James O’Keefe in Year 7, Harry Edmonds in Year 10, Matt Bird in Year 11 and Will Liggett in Year 12.

Rugby, an event that in the past has not been one of our strongest, but

on our overall position: • Junior House Football – 6th Place (Joint 5th Place overall) • House Athletics – 6th Place • House Tennis – 6th Place

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

17

HOUSE LIFE Over a few days late on in the year, despite the best efforts of so many, we had come unstuck and our Brodie campaign came to a disappointing finish. To come 6th by one point was really frustrating, given how much we have improved over recent years and how well we performed for most of the year. The target therefore has to be make the most of the early opportunities to take points and target those events that come late in the year, to see if we can unearth some runners, jumpers, throwers, kickers and tennis players!

Although both the Watson and Brodie are competitions, in reality they provide students with the chance to participate, perform and excel in a number of different sporting, academic and artistic events throughout the year. We saw this in abundance as a House and the fact that we were not rewarded by tangible trophy wins is irrelevant, Hampden House should be proud of its efforts, both individually and collectively, and we look forward to seeing what next year will bring.

Lee House Report It has been 15 years since Lee House last won the Brodie Trophy, back in 2002: the year of the Queen’s Golden Jubilee and Arsenal beating Chelsea 2-0 in the FA Cup. This year Lee House have done the almost impossible after so many years in the sporting wilderness. The most interesting thing is this was not a narrow victory in the end and we were so consistent across most of the sporting competitions over a 12-month period.

in the summer term.

We had a mixed bag of results in the Watson in the autumn term.

House Art, which has often been a strength of Lee in the past, proved to be extremely disappointing with a 6th place finish. House Music once again, previously our forte, did not go according to plan despite the best effort of the Music captains and our musicians. After last year’s top spot in this keenly contested and

from ‘The Lightening Seeds’ song

well-supported event, Lee could only

‘Three Lions’ at this juncture.

finish 5th. I would like to take this

“Three lions on a shirt, Jules Rimet still gleaming.

Thirty years of hurt, never stopped me dreaming.

So many jokes, so many sneers,

you’re down, through the years.”

opportunity to thank all the students who gave up so much of their time and expertise to make our house music collaboration possible.

During the first term, House Rugby once again proved to be highly competitive! It is always good to see so many students representing their houses on the rugby field. Lee proved

In the Brodie, the year once again

to be a dominant force, finishing joint

started extremely well with Lee

2nd; with Lee 8 and 10 winning their

House winning Cross Country. I

respective year group competitions.

was impressed with the students’

This was a dream start with many

willingness to turn out to represent the

pinching themselves: Lee 1st in the

house and the determination which

Brodie at Christmas!! But a word of

they showed during the races. We

caution was required, as this had

have some extremely gifted athletes

been the case every winter for the

particularly in our Inter and Junior

past three years.

cohorts and this was evident in Cross Country and later in the year in House Athletics. Our Inters and Juniors both placed 1st in Cross Country and in Athletics our year 7 and Senior teams

18

finish joint 2nd overall in Athletics late

I am left elated and thinking of lines

But all those ‘oh so nears, when Mr C McGill

both took the top spot; enabling us to

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

Other success stories included our 1st place in Senior Basketball and our Senior Football team winning their competition.

House Swimming was another

won the Seniors’ event and the Tennis

exceptionally-delivered assemblies.

great competition for Lee, with the

competition overall; this year Lee saw

Alex and Tom will be very much

house sharing the overall victory

it through to the end with a “GREAT”

missed for their efforts on the sports

with Phillips House. As last year,

win and all 6 points in House Tennis.

field, alongside their undoubted talent

we once again proved to have real strength in our Junior sections and the Lee Inters team placed first.

Lee House Swimming is safe in the hands of individuals like; Ed Birch, James Chennells, Tom Giles and Josh Greig in Year 10, Jack Edwards and Jai Horwood in Year 8 and Murray Wakeford from Year 7. The real highlight for me was the effort

disappointing for Lee, 6th place in

So as I said last year, in the words of

House Writing, an improved 4th

Muhammad Ali, ”The fight is won or

place in House Quiz and a creditable

lost far away from witnesses - behind

performance in Public Speaking; a lot

the lines, in the gym, and out there on

of food for thought and a tremendous amount of work for us to do as

team: not all regular swimmers but

in the Watson, it is undoubtedly a

more than willing to do their best.

real improvement on previous years.

House Athletics and Tennis. By this stage of the year, Lee House have normally been overhauled by the

So to all Lee House students it is

cerebral events next year.

So: winners of the Brodie and 6th

the road, long before I dance under those lights.”

a House once again in the more

and commitment put in by our Senior

The summer term ended with

as musicians.

The final Watson events proved

once again time to reflect and prepare for the year ahead. We do not want to be a Leicester City, a one season wonder, can we win the Brodie again?

We have at last won the sporting

Can we prove it was not a fluke

competition, but we must work on

and can Lee make a charge for the

many areas in the Watson events

Watson in 2017/2018? Can Lee do

over the next 12 months.

the impossible and do “The Double”

other Houses, with our lead after the

I must take this final opportunity to

first term quickly evaporating. Going

thank our Head Boy of Lee, Alex

into House Tennis we had a fairly

Wilson and his two Deputies Jai

Have a good summer, rest and

narrow lead over last year’s Brodie

Ghosh and Tom Alexander, wishing

recover; let battle commence once

winners Paterson and it was now a

them every success for the future.

again in September 2017.

two-horse race. However, the Senior

Jai has set an excellent example

Tennis team of Alex Axford, Jonny

all year for our younger students,

Booth, Jonny Dance and Alex Rice

delivering a range of high-quality and

next year?

Mr P Dean

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

19

HOUSE LIFE Paterson House Report

The new Head Boy and Deputy Head Boys of House were in place, the new year 7 intake were beginning to find

Head Boy of House Perspective When I first took up the position of Head Boy of Paterson I never thought it would be easy, but I also never thought for one second that it would be so rewarding.

Enormous credit must also go to my

their way around AGS and the race for

Deputies Will and Chris, who, as

the Brodie and Watson got underway.

well as being great leaders in their

As winners of the Brodie Cup for the

own right, have forever offered me a

third year in a row last year, it seems

shoulder to lean on when times were

like this would be a suitable place to

tough and have shared my passion

start my review.

to drive Paterson forward this year,

After taking over from Jack last year, I

Paterson wouldn’t have managed

had some big expectations to live up

it without them. This desire to win

to. In recent years, Paterson House

is a quality that I clearly see in the

has enjoyed a wealth of success in

leadership team for next year of

both trophies and this was, of course,

Michael, Tom and Luan, and I have

something I was looking to continue.

absolutely no doubt that we will see

I am incredibly proud to tell you all

even further success for Paterson

that Paterson has achieved this

House under their reign.

academic year. The credit, without a doubt, must go to every single member of Paterson House that participated in each event because, as all Head Boys of House will know, there is only so much motivation and organisation you can offer and it is up to the individuals in the House to go out there and consistently perform to the best of their abilities. I would like to thank all the boys in Paterson for getting behind me this year, stepping up when called upon and wanting to win just as much (if not more) than I did.

A personal highlight of the year has to be the victory of the Watson ‘Triple Crown’ of House Art, House Music and House Writing. These are events which rely heavily on the participation of the students and it fills me with pride when I think about our winning performances in these competitions,

The year started as it always does, with House Cross Country. Well done to Nick Cay (Paterson 7) and William Ratcliffe (Paterson 8), finishing 2nd and 3rd respectively out of 48 runners in the Juniors race and Ben Lindars (Paterson 10) and Olly Cay (Paterson 10) who finished 2nd and 3rd in the Inters race. Overall, we

However, the biggest thank you of all

finished the event in 3rd place, which

must go to Miss Chalk. Many people

was an improvement on last year –

do not fully appreciate the work

so a great start in our campaign to

that she puts in as much of it goes

keep the Brodie for another year. A

unnoticed and happens behind the scenes, but believe me when I say that Paterson House would not be anywhere near as successful without her. She really epitomises what we stand for in Paterson House and has managed to mould the House into a family with her pastoral and generous nature, under which every student has an opportunity to thrive. So, on

rather disappointing joint 4th finish in House Basketball, usually one of our strongest events, followed this.

However, congratulations should be given to Year 7 who won their section of the competition. This was followed by a 1st place finish in House Rugby, with Year 9 winning their section. It was turning into a very unpredictable year.

behalf of myself and all the students in

House Squash was the next event

Paterson, thank you Miss Chalk.

in the calendar, where we were

Finally, I would like to wish all my fellow Year 13s good luck for whatever the future holds and thank you for making my seven years at Aylesbury Grammar School unforgettable.

awarded with a joint 2nd place finish overall. Congratulations to all those who played, especially the Seniors who won their section. Following this, we had the House Swimming competition. To say this did not go as well as planned would be an

these are great memories that I will

Callum Eley, Head Boy of

understatement – we finished in 4th

never forget.

Paterson House 2016-2017

place. We faced a number of issues

20

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

we had finished in 2nd place. It was a little disappointing that we could not manage a fourth year at the top of the Brodie, but as I look back on the days when it was an achievement when we didn’t finish in 6th place, as a House we have come a long way and I am very proud of all the work that went into taking 2nd place overall.

The Watson The first event in the Watson is always Senior Public Speaking. Aidan Purchase (Paterson 10), Joey Horrox during the run up to the event through

Mattheson (Paterson 7), George

(Paterson 11), Tom Cay (Paterson 12)

illness and poor communication.

Birch (Paterson 7), Josh Davidson

and Callum Eley (Paterson 13) put

This event was a low point during

(Paterson 7), Sam Kearney (Paterson

themselves up for the task this year.

the year for us as a House. That

8), Sanjit Mallya (Paterson 8), Ollie

The team finished in a very pleasing

said, Year 7 won their section and

Carolin (Paterson 8), Ashre Moses

3rd place. Later in the year, we had

new school records were created

(Paterson 8), Kit Fairhurst (Paterson

the second part of the competition,

by Sam Pyefinch (Paterson 7) for

9), Gus Burnett (Paterson 9), Albie

Junior Public Speaking. Here, Nick

50m butterfly and 4 x 25m individual

Whittemore (Paterson 9), Ben Latham

Cay (Paterson 7), Kaustubh Singh

medley, and these achievements

(Paterson 9), Michael Amaeshike

(Paterson 8) and Sam Holcroft

certainly should be celebrated.

(Paterson 10), Ben Lindars (Paterson

(Paterson 9) worked very hard to

10), Olly Speake (Paterson 10), Aalim

make sure they delivered interesting

Shamsideen (Paterson 12) and the

topics in a slick and confident manner

Year 8 House Relay team. Team of

and were awarded 3rd place in the

the Year goes to Year 7 for gaining

Junior section. This left us with a solid

the highest points out of all the

3rd place finish in the competition

Paterson teams.

as a whole. Thank you to everyone

The next event was the biggest event in the Brodie calendar – House Athletics. Last year we had our best ever finish in the event (joint 1st) and we were keen to replicate this success. So, after some motivational

who supported our speakers through

assemblies ‘Team Paterson’ were

House Football followed, with the

assembled. They threw, ran and

introduction of Futsal for years 10-13.

jumped to the best of their ability in

Overall, we finished the competition in

scorching heat. The results were

4th place. Special mention should go

announced. We had not matched

to the 7, 8 and 9 teams for exceptional

our success from last year, we had

teamwork and communication during

beaten it - 1st place overall! The

their games, which were held at

After our 2nd place finish last year

team erupted with cheers, and it

the PTA fete. As we entered House

in House Art, we went into the

made me very happy to see how

Tennis, there were only two Houses

competition determined to improve

much the win meant to each and

that could win the Brodie this year:

on this. Under the leadership of

every one of the competitors. The

Paterson and Lee. Unfortunately, it

Haseeb Abassi (Paterson 13), a

House Athletics Superstars of 2017

was not good news from the courts

display based on the Ancient Orient

were – Ben Kearney (Paterson 7),

as we finished in 5th place meaning

was created. An excellent display

Nick Cay (Paterson 7), Riaghan

Lee House had won the Brodie and

was created, highlighting the artistic

the preparations for the competition, especially to Mrs Sampson for giving up her valuable time to help our team of speakers to be the best they can be.

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

21

HOUSE LIFE abilities that Paterson House has to offer – work ranging from Lego to origami, pasta to matchsticks.

With over 140 entries submitted, we were awarded 1st place, with a 12-point lead over last year’s winners Hampden. The level of talent within Paterson House was recognised with a total of 21 Certificates of Excellence being awarded in recognition of outstanding entries, beating last year’s total. Congratulations to Previn Chady (Paterson 10), Austin Balmer (Paterson 9), Will Rowles (Paterson 10), Nick Cay (Paterson 7), Tommy Healey (Paterson 7), Sam Choudhury (Paterson 9) , George Birch (Paterson 7), Sam Holcroft (Paterson 9), Joey Horrox (Paterson 11), Ryan Sara (Paterson 8), Alex Lincoln (Paterson 9), Tom Navin (Paterson 8), James Manley (Paterson 11), Alroy Pereira (Paterson 12), Sam Heasman (Paterson 11), Ben Ratcliffe (Paterson 10), Jay Raj (Paterson 8), Miss Chalk (Head of House) and James Grohmann (Paterson 13) for being awarded two certificates.

The next event was House Music.

Preparations began four months before the actual competition with the usual disagreements over song choices. Finally, the captains Chris Louis (Paterson 13), Ayush Rodrigues (Paterson 13) and Joe Kearney (Paterson 13) made some firm decisions and rehearsals began.

On the evening of the competition, the Compère duo of Oli Brown (Paterson 13) and Callum Eley (Paterson 13) took to the stage to entertain the crowd and introduce our songs. We started with an exceptional performance of ‘Elephant’

by Tame Impala, followed by the incredible vocals of Daniel Lindars

22

on ‘How to Save a Life’ by The Fray and we finished with ‘Everybody needs Somebody to Love’ from the Blue Brothers, which included an enthusiastic performance from the powerhouse that is the Paterson House Choir. The judge, Jules Buckley took to the stage and the results were announced – Paterson House… 1st Place!! The cheers filled the hall – Paterson had not won House Music since 2009, so this was something to celebrate.

Following this excitement, we went into the House Writing competition.

The theme of ‘Mirrors’ provided an excellent platform for a wide variety of writing styles. The magazine editors – Callum Eley (Paterson 13), Joe Kearney (Paterson 13), Jacob Heayes (Paterson 13), Michael Witham (Paterson 12), Tom Cay (Paterson 12) and Max Hutt (Paterson 12) worked through over 140 entries from Paterson House to create our magazine that was awarded 1st place in the competition. Congratulations to everyone who submitted work, especially to Jonathan Gopal (Paterson 8), Callum Eley (Paterson 13), Jacob Heayes (Paterson 13), Matt Ferutado (Paterson 13), Tom Cay (Paterson 12) and Michael Witham (Paterson 12) whose entries were highly commended by this year’s adjudicator. We should also thank Matt Feurtado (Paterson 13) for providing the artwork used on the front cover.

The only other events to discuss in the Watson are House Quiz and House Chess – the chink in our armour with 5th places in both competitions.

However, it did not make too much of an impact as we had enough points

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

from the other events and were crowned Watson Winners 2017. It has been a few years since Paterson has won the Watson, so we welcomed the trophy back with open arms.

And Finally…

I would like to thank Callum Eley (Head Boy of House) and Chris Louis and Will Knatchbull (Deputy Head Boys of House) for all the tireless work they have put into running Paterson House over the year. They have been so dedicated to their roles and their passion for the House was infectious.

They have been motivational and an absolute pleasure to work alongside.

They were certainly the driving force behind our success this year. I would also like to wish the outgoing Year 13s all the very best of luck and success in the future. They have been a wonderful year group to get to know and I will miss them greatly as they leave us. Remember ‘once a Patty, always a Patty’!

Here at ‘Team Paterson’, we have achieved great success and this has been facilitated by a wonderful group of tutors who provide first-rate pastoral care to their tutor groups, working tirelessly with them throughout the year, so thank you to all the Paterson House tutors.

It has been another positive year for us. The dedication and effort from all students in Paterson House has been incredible – every single one of them played a valuable role in our success.

We continued to work as a team, and for that, I am incredibly proud and very grateful.

Miss K Chalk

Phillips House Report

In Tennis, we are lucky to have some of the best players at AGS and all teams did well putting us overall joint

This year Phillips House has faced tough challenges in all competitions and I am, as usual, extremely pleased with the commitment and skill in both sporting and non-sporting competition from boys in all tutor groups. Those who have

and Watson competitions. Always

second with the Senior and Junior

hard fought and often unbelievably

teams winning their matches. Special

frustrating, they give us a focus and

mention to Josh Mayhead, Alex Gent,

drive that is unmatched. The Brodie

Leo Blackman and Ameya Tekale in

Trophy saw our greatest success with

the Senior team and Joel Good, Kai

an overall 3rd place. This might not

Bailey, Chris Bond and DJ Mentiply in

seem amazing but when we consider

the juniors.

that by spring we had managed

gained positions of responsibility

to come last in Cross Country and

The Watson proved more elusive

in Phillips from Junior Prefects to

Squash, languishing near the bottom

Prefects and Senior Prefects have

contributions from across the House

in Football, it does not seem that bad.

given up a lot of time to take on

in all events. The Senior Public

In fact, the boys of Phillips rallied

important responsibilities often

Speaking was an early highlight

massively with excellent performances

providing valuable support to staff.

with our team coming first. Fraser

in Basketball for our first win of

provided easily the best speech

the year and then, the perennially

of the competition. However, even

successful House Swimming where

the high level of enthusiasm and

our outstanding swimmers secured a

commitment from our Juniors could

joint win. Special mention to Carmello

not make up for more well-rehearsed

Almadin of Phillips 7 for his excellent

opposition and the Juniors came

performance first time out for Phillips.

5th putting us 4th overall. House Art

The summer term always provides

and Writing have been plagued by

Phillips with the opportunity to shine

a lack of submissions in the last few

and in both Athletics and Tennis we

years but enthusiastic support from

were incredible. It was a testament

the Senior boys helped redress this

to the hunger for victory that a joint

slightly. Although we again came a

2nd in athletics proved to be a

disappointing 6th in Art there was

Apart from pastoral support, at the

disappointment to the athletes but

a marked improvement in Writing

heart of our activities are the Brodie

was, nevertheless, an excellent result.

and with a good concept, excellent

I would like to start by thanking our outgoing Head Boys of House, James, Fraser and Ollie. Thank you for your leadership and hard work in supporting Phillips House this year.

I know that our new leadership team of James, Jeffrey and Liam will do a fantastic job. We welcome Miss Draper who has been a fantastic tutor to Phillips 9 and hope she will continue to enjoy being part of Phillips into the next academic year.

this year although we had excellent

editing and more submissions we pulled ourselves up to 4th this year.

Thank you Ross and Adam for your hard work with this. We have turned a corner and I expect us to push up the rankings next year. As usual, there were many well-earned certificates of excellence in both competitions and I would again like to express my thanks to all who took part. The House Quiz was another competition where on paper we should have done well but faced strong opposition. Even with an

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

23

HOUSE LIFE overall 6th position there was a great performance from the Phillips 8 and Phillips 9 team who came 3rd in their group.

Assemblies by the tutor groups were, as always, interesting and thought provoking. Thank you to all boys who took part. As I always say, speaking in public and the art of rhetoric is one of the most important life skills.

Well done to all. The PTA fete was a big success and we raised well over £200. My thanks to all the boys who helped make it such a success.

Your support was invaluable. I must mention Josh Mulgrew, who has supported the book and DVD Stall every year since year 7 and leaves us this year at the end of Year 13. Thank you Josh.

I would like to finish this report by thanking all the boys and tutors who have made this a successful year for Phillips House and especially those boys who have taken on responsibilities including running assemblies and raising money for Malawi. We wish Mrs Lillywhite all the best in her retirement and thank her for her unrelenting support to her tutor group. Well done to all in Phillips House this year.

Mr M Goodchild

24

Ridley House Report In terms of the House competitions it has been a mixed year for Ridley, but with enough highlights to make it a positive one. On Friday 7th July 2017, the last day of House competitions Ridley were still in a position to win the Watson Trophy, but lay in last place in the Brodie, as both competitions hung on a knife edge.

Entering the final competition in the Watson Trophy, Ridley and Paterson were tied in first place and with Denson also in contention. Sadly, despite the best efforts of our Junior public speakers, we would finish in 5th place overall in the combined Public Speaking competition, meaning that Paterson House won the Watson on 26 points and Denson were runners up on 25, with Ridley tied with Hampden on 24. The competition could not have been closer. The other area where we lost ground on our rivals was in the House Writing, where we finished in 5th place. Given our recent history of success in this competition and the work that had gone into our publication, we had hoped for better. An area where we have traditionally performed less well is in the House Art. This year we finished in joint 3rd. I should acknowledge the efforts of Year 13 captain Eddy Garton in leading our exhibition. We are always to an extent entering the unknown with the House quiz, but we had given ourselves the best chance of success by selecting our teams after practice quizzes in

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

extended registrations. Our efforts would pay off with a joint 1st place finish. We performed even better in the House Chess, where we finished as outright winners, with Denson hot on our heels. Both our Senior and Junior teams won, with the Inters coming second in their competition.

The House Music festival is always a particular highlight of the House year.

Not only does it involve collaboration between all year groups, it is also the culmination of months of practice and takes place in a packed School Hall. As a non-musician I am always amazed by the musical talent we have in the school. Our captains Michael Ng and Jonts Hoft had begun preparations months in advance and their drive, organisation and vision would fully utilise the musical talents in the House. We produced three memorable pieces in the form of ‘Cake by the Ocean’, a movie medley and Michael Ng’s solo of ‘La Campanella’. On a memorable night Ridley were placed 2nd a mere point behind Paterson, with many observers thinking we were very unlucky not to win. This was truly a team effort, but I must mention Michael Ng. In all my years at AGS I have never seen a more talented performer and his is a void we will struggle to fill. Overall our strong performances in the Watson Trophy provide a solid foundation on which to build next year.

In contrast, the Brodie Trophy has been a bit of a struggle this year and we have rarely looked like delivering a top three finish. There have however

the final Brodie standings, although in 5th place on 24.5 points, we were only half a point behind Denson and a further point off Phillips in 3rd. I cannot remember a year when both the Brodie and Watson competitions have been so closely fought (although Lee House did win the Brodie by a sizable margin).

There is of course so much more to House life than just the two major competitions. This year we have raised money for GAAF, a charity based in Uganda which raises

been some highlights! Our Year 7

and we finished in 3rd place overall

squash team of Ethan McIntosh,

in basketball. The Junior House

Josh Armstrong, John McGregor and

Football of course takes place on

Tom Oakes won their competition

Fete Day and this always ensures

and we finished in second place in

an enthusiastic crowd of fellow

the overall squash competition. Our

competitors, students and parents. In

combined Year 9 and 10 team came

the Year 8 competition Dylan Changer

2nd in cross country, whilst Dom

scored a vital goal 10 seconds from

Grimshaw in Ridley 8 won his race.

time against Hampden to take us

Performances on the rugby field

into the final, where we eventually

have been disappointing this year,

beat Phillips on penalties, with

meaning that we finished in last place

captain Jude Guest-Brainch scoring

overall in this competition. However

the vital spot-kick. Our Year 9 team

credit should go to Ridley 10 for a

would triumph in the same way when

2nd place finish. Perhaps the two

‘keeper Oscar Cole saved the first

most high profile sporting events of the year are the House Swimming and the House Athletics, since they involve the competitors off timetable for the day and performing in front of a

money to assist those affected by HIV and AIDS. Ridley students made a substantial contribution towards money raised at the PTA Fete by running ‘Beat-The-Goalie’, ‘Cricket Bowling’ and ‘Guess the Time’ stalls.

And who could forget the Ridley panto – performed by the Ridley tutors for our students in the final assembly before Christmas. The performance (this year ‘Little Red Riding Hoodie’) seems to get better year on year (if this is possible). Mr Grant is no doubt already planning the next instalment.

Denson penalty in another shoot out after the final finished in a draw. It was therefore a minor triumph to win two

I must finish by thanking Head Boy Jay Patton, ably assisted by Deputies

out of the three football tournaments

Jack Ainsworth and Ollie Hawken

on Fete Day.

for all their leadership and hard work

sizable crowd (particularly in the case

We therefore entered the final day of

on Sports Day). However, we would

during the year. We also have a great

the Brodie competition in an identical

finish in 5th place in both competitions

team of tutors in Ridley and I am very

position to the previous year – last

which lost us further ground in the

grateful for the support they give to

place with only the House Tennis

Brodie. It really does seem a long time

me and all our students. Finally well

to go. Fortunately, we would finish

since Ridley have performed well in

in 3rd place overall, with our Inter

done to everyone who has contributed

swimming! On to the good news: both

team of Dan Dean, Alex Piddington,

Ridley 9 and Ridley 7 (boosted by the

Dylan Holmes-Cowan and James

considerable talents of Jeremy and

Atkinson triumphant. This meant that

Gavin Thurairajah) were victorious,

we at least overhauled Hampden in

to House life during the past year. I am confident that Ridley will bounce back in 2017-2018.

Mr J Barrie

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

25

SPORT 1ST XV Rugby Played 13 Won 4 Lost 9 Pts for 205 Pts Against 234 If we say, that over the course of a 13 week season, our opponents across Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, Northamptonshire, Oxfordshire and Essex outscored us by only 29 points, then you’d imagine we had

confidence grew with wins over Dr

leaving in the knowledge that they had

a competitive and fairly successful

Challoner’s, St Columba’s, St Ignatius

been in a titanic battle.

season.

and RGS Colchester. We went

If we say, that over the course of a 13 week season, we lost 9 of 13 games, with a win ratio of just 30%, then you’d imagine we had a poor and unsuccessful season.

into the third round of the NatWest Cup against local rivals, RGS High Wycombe, with new levels of focus and determination. We started like a steam train and tore into the opposition, dominating territory and

Unfortunately, the momentum gained from a successful October was lost when we returned from half term break. With players choosing to leave the squad, followed by significant injuries to Callum Eley, Matt Wells and Tom Rumble, and player unavailability

Either way, the 1st XV squad of 2016

possession. Fielding a kick in our own

will know that they did not realise their

22, Harvey Mack broke a few tackles

full potential or perform at the level

to release centre Matt Wells who

they were capable of. Commitment

made huge yards before offloading to

to pre-season was poor and as a

Ollie Shearer to score near the posts.

result, we went into the first month of

The game remained a tight affair

Although our playing record was in

fixtures under-prepared. Playing the

with RGS edging the result 22-12 but

tatters, there were a few shining lights

likes of Campion, Bedford Modern, Royal Latin and Reading Blue Coat are difficult enough even when fully prepared, but it was no surprise that we emerged from this series with four losses. Problems stemmed from inadequate levels of physical conditioning, a dysfunctional line-out and a young pack containing only two Year 13 players.

To the team’s credit, things were turning around by early October, and

26

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

for Saturday fixtures, we proceeded to struggle against Northampton School for Boys, Magdalen, Watford and St Albans.

to emerge. Will Knatchbull established

a difficult season. His versatility is a

Greg Kemp, Tom Darling and Ben

himself as a quality hooker, putting

great asset and Ben could play either

Forest have been invaluable.

his body on the line each game. His

back row, fly half or centre. However,

work rate and commitment were

even more impressive were his

exemplary. In the engine room of the

courage and resilience, never getting

pack, Jonty Hanwell demonstrated

injured despite being in the thick of

that he is a player of incredible

everything and taking plenty of big

potential. He started and played in

hits. For work ethic, no-one puts in

every game this season and battled

more of a shift than Matt Dimbleby.

on bravely, even when carrying

Weighing only a fraction of most back

significant injury. Although he was

row forwards, his bravery, work rate

waiting for a date for surgery to

and toughness stood out for me and if

reattach the ligaments to his thumb,

he ever puts on muscular weight, he

Jonty played in all four fixtures after

will make an exceptional player. Year

half term. Ben Haigh was another

13 role models are so important in any

to enhance his reputation through

successful 1st XV and Joe Kearney,

For the Year 13 students leaving this summer, I thank you for all your effort and commitment over the last 7 years.

I hope you’ve enjoyed it and will continue to play rugby at university.

For the Year 12s, the exciting prospect of a tour to Singapore and Australia lies ahead and the preparations start in the New Year.

Mr G Ramsbottom

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

27

SPORT 2nd XV Rugby

severely tested, especially when

a difference but they could not stem

some were injured during the games

the tide of attackers by themselves

and there were no reserves. At this

and it was again this aspect of play

The final game of the season, a 47-23 victory over St Albans, showed what this team was capable of in terms of attack, and more importantly defence.

point I would like to praise the efforts

that was our downfall.

The team was led by Oli Brown who

the returning 1st XV players in Years

Scoring seven tries during the game

exemplified the willingness of many

11 and 12, there should be a good

and conceding only three points in the

of the boys to play in unfamiliar

core of players to choose from in the

second half demonstrated what might

positions. Oli played in three positions

new season, especially when we

have been throughout the season

during the season as did Connor

include the present Year 11.

had our tackling especially been up to

Mulholland and Josh Walley. Without

scratch. Unfortunately, this cohesion

their co-operation in the changing of

and defence was not evident in many

position we would have been in deep

of the other games.

trouble in many of the games. One

of those fully committed players that made up the backbone of the team.

consistent and outstanding player Three wins and eight defeats, two

was Ollie Sampson who played in the

of which could have been reversed

heart of the scrum and he was backed

to make the win/loss ratio more

up by Joe Stansfield who controlled

favourable, was not really indicative of

matters from scrum half. Joe’s

the team’s ability. Injuries, and more

competitive attitude was an important

importantly players being unavailable

part of the team ethic and he drove

were two issues that impacted

the team forward on many occasions.

negatively upon the consistency a

Equally important to the team effort

team needs to be successful.

were Christian Peploe-Williams and

Some of the defeats were mainly

Nick Worthy, both fully committed and

due to having many of the main

always keen to play for the school.

team players not making themselves

The addition of Andrew Prosser and

available, notably against Campion,

Marc Grant in October certainly made

Bedford Modern, RGS Colchester and Watford. Another loss was my fault in my underestimation of the opposition’s strength, and we also had a game in which the referee left the field at half time never to return, and we lost that one 0-7 due mainly to his incompetence and our inability to take advantage of this incompetence.

However, this afore mentioned lack of commitment by some players meant that the remaining boys were often

28

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

With 19 players from Year 12 returning next season coupled with

My thanks to all the boys who turned out to practices but were not always included in every game, without your contribution we would have been even more vulnerable throughout the season. To those leaving school I hope you had an enjoyable final season of school rugby and will take fond memories of your games and teammates with you. And finally, to those returning – please make sure you are fully committed throughout the term so that the team can always be fully representative of the strength of AGS rugby.

Mr G Holmes

U16 Rugby

U16 Rugby 7s

It was always going to be tough to match the high levels set during their Under 15 campaign last year

The Under 16 side enjoyed a successful season winning 6 out of their 8 fixtures. They scored points for fun at times and average just over 30 points per match.

After a difficult start with defeat at home to Campion, an away thumping of Bedford Modern was followed by

Following the very successful 15

but the boys involved have showed

a side season through the Autumn

exceptional commitment and equal

Term, the AGS Under 16 squad

levels of excellence. With key players

were challenged to carry that

injured for major portions of the

momentum through into a gruelling

season, and a number of individuals

sevens programme. The attitude and

stepping up into the first team, others

commitment shown by the squad

have had to step up and lead this

was exemplary and that played an

season and have done so brilliantly.

important part in the success that was to come.

a tasty midweek clash at home to

It is a year group that is not able to

Royal Latin, which ended in a second

boast of huge quantities of players

win of the season. We then travelled

with only 20 or so boys representing

The first taste of seven a side

away and dug deep to win at Reading

the school this year which is a

rugby for the season came at a

Bluecoats, coming from behind to win

shame. However, the quality is

very competitive Stowe School

in terrible conditions.

unquestionable and the boys should

tournament. A strong start saw the

Northampton proved too strong

be proud of how they have conducted

straight after half term but then fine

themselves this season. A lot of these

wins at home dismantling Magdalen

boys should look forward to featuring

College and Watford Boys built

in next season’s first team and have

momentum going into the final fixture

every potential to be part of something

injury which would unfortunately rule

against St Albans. A monumental

special in the coming years.

him out for the rest of the term. The

team effort saw the side come out on top of a 67 point thriller, scoring in the

Mr L Gardiner

Tournament One: Stowe Sevens

side dispatch Rugby School and Bishop Wordsworth before losing to an impressive Wellington College.

We lost Ben Caldicott to a concussion during the Wellington fixture; an

squad regrouped and were through to the quarter- finals to face the

dying seconds to snatch a 34-33 win

hosts, Stowe. A huge second half

and get revenge for last year’s defeat.

performance resulted in a 19-17 win and saw the side progress through to the semi-finals to face Bromsgrove.

Unfortunately, we were unable to rectify a slow start and battled superbly to a 26-21 loss.

To be in the semi-finals with names such as Bromsgrove, Wellington and Warwick is a massive achievement in itself and would set the team up for the wonderful performances that were to follow.

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

29

SPORT Tournament Two: QE Barnet A long Sunday at QE Barnet followed

Tournament Three: Rosslyn Park National Schools Sevens

within the same week; a tournament

All of the training and competitions

that is traditionally viewed as the

had been building up to this event.

major warm up leading into the

Sponsored by HSBC and held in

national sevens 10 days later.

Richmond, this is the largest sevens

A tough opening fixture against Wellington College was followed by a frustrating loss to Sutton Valence School. Following these disappointments, the squad fixed their mindset and went into the last group game against Denstone College knowing that we could only progress

tournament in the world. 175 teams at Under 16 level entered, split across 32 groups, with matches played over two days. The tournament hosts the biggest names in school rugby from across the British Isles, as well as welcoming teams from Australia, Canada and the Emirates.

through to the Plate competition by

Only one team out of 175 scored

finishing with a large points difference.

more points than AGS on the

In terrible conditions, on a swamp-

Tuesday, the eventual winners

like pitch, the AGS side dismantled

Wellington College. AGS scored 240

Denstone to win 47-7 and progress

points in 5 games beating St Georges

through to the Plate knockout stages.

College Weybridge, Plymouth

The squad then displayed their talent and character to comfortably beat Merchant Taylors School and then come through a huge encounter with Dartford Grammar School.

Unfortunately, it was here that we lost

College, Bedford Modern and 2 more Welsh sides as they earned their place in the last 16 teams out of 175 and were to return on the Wednesday for a knockout fixture against Sedburgh School.

Flynn Delaney to another concussion; another head injury that would see us lose another player for the rest of the term.

The squad then faced another big name in the final, Hampton School.

The underdogs turned on the style however and cruised to a 29-0 victory and walked away with some much deserved silverware.

30

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

Unfortunately, the side were slow to start on the Wednesday morning and fell to an early 21-point deficit. They battled, regrouped and dominated the remainder of the game but there was not enough time on the clock to complete the comeback, going down 21-14.

What this side has achieved this term cannot be complimented enough.

They have committed to a busy training programme of lunchtimes and after schools, dealt with injuries to key players and faced some of the biggest school sides in the country.

Winning the plate at QE Barnet will be a great memory but the efforts on the Tuesday at Rosslyn Park were simply outstanding. With the sun shining and the spirits high, this side put on a show and fully deserved to return for the second day of competition; an achievement that hasn’t been seen from an AGS side for 10 years.

A wonderful term’s efforts, this is a special rugby team and they should all look forward to the next two years in the Senior set up.

Mr L Gardiner

U15 Rugby

more comfortably. After a bitter defeat

time again. With half back pairings

against Northampton School for Boys

including Tom Miles, Olly Speake

we beat John Hampden at home,

(who we lost much too soon), Euan

Another year comes to a close, and what a year it has been.

defending our unbeaten record at

Walters, Joe Burt, Cam Brooker and

home. Unfortunately after this we

James Thomson, we have never been

I would like to thank everyone who

suffered from continuous injuries

without determination and flare. Our

has taken part in U15 rugby this year.

averaging 4 players missing per

centre pairings of Harry Edmonds,

With the hard graft of Mr Bull with

game.

Ed Birch and George Bates have

the forwards and under the strong

never found us wanting with the Despite our playing record this has

numerous battles they have won in

been a truly enjoyable season. With

the centre of the field. Our wingers

an ever-changing team the boys have

of Skippy, Ben Parkinson, JJ and

After a disappointing start against

stuck at it and fought tooth and nail in

Finn Bell have torn opponents apart

Campion School, our season officially

every game putting their bodies on the

on countless occasions. At the back,

got under way with a strong win

line every game. With the presence

captain fantastic, Joe Chapman has

against Bedford Modern School.

of Charlie McIntosh, Adam Goillon,

saved more tries than any full back

Following this we played Chesham

Kyle Martin, Seth Cyster-White and

I have ever seen. We may not have

Grammar School away in the Natwest

Arthur Brownhill there hasn’t been a

the results to prove it, but these boys

Cup. With a truly great performance

front row we haven’t equalled. With

have played as a team all season and

we emerged 54-5 winners. Following

the powerhouse of Andy Klaasen,

should be proud of the progress they

on from this we experienced our

Zak Littler, Ethan White and Tom

have made.

first taste of the blight of injuries that

Giles, we have dealt out our fair

was to define our season. Our next

share of pain this year. Our back

win came against Sir Henry Floyd

row battlers: Jake Graham, Previn

whom we beat 7-5 after a gruelling

Chady, Max Barrett and Tom Lane

game which we should have won

have proved their worth time and

leadership of Joe Chapman we have continued to work hard.

I wish you all of the best for next year and I know you shall turn around the close contests we have had this year.

Mr T Walker

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31

SPORT U14 Rugby A TEAM After a fairly successful season last year, we were heading into this year hopeful that we could continue the success and build on what we had already developed with Mr. Rooney with two new coaches, Mr. Dean and Mr. McGill.

The first match saw us come up against a strong Campion side that had beaten us the year before, however we won comfortably this year 48-0, a great start to the season.

After half-term and a week of well-

hard all week, and came out strong

earned rest, we had 2 intense

against this well drilled team filled

training sessions before we played

with talent. Our forwards dominated

Northampton School for Boys, a team

theirs physically and we played in the

we hadn’t beaten in our previous

right areas of the field, but they still

fixtures with them. Surprisingly this

managed to score points against us.

week we started strongly, scoring

A hard fought and entertaining game

from our 1st possession through great

finished 17-17 a result we could be

forward play. Frustratingly however

happy with but that was ultimately

we let them back into the game, with

disappointing, as we felt that we

them going ahead not long after our

should have beaten Watford and that

score. The game ended 24-14 in our

we had failed to close out another

favour though, thanks to a couple of

game.

breakaway tries and some amazing team defence. Slightly relieved, we went back to training having a clear picture of how we had to improve.

The season ended with a game against St Albans. We had been warned they gained boys over the summer, and had all grown bigger

Wins followed against Bedford

In the ensuing weeks we recorded

How big they had grown came as a

Modern, Tring, Akeley Wood, Reading

wins against John Hampden and

massive surprise. But as the saying

Blue Coats and St Ignatius. After a

Magdalen College and then came Dr

goes ‘the bigger they are the harder

couple of cancelled fixtures against

Challoner’s. Maybe the pressure of

they fall’ and a 36-7 AGS win was a

Enfield and Royal Latin, our next

an undefeated season had become

positive and fitting end to what has

game was against one of our fiercest

too much, but this was the most

been a fantastic season, thanks to the

rivals, RGS. During training in the

disappointing game of season, not

hard work of all those involved this

week running up to the game, we

just from the perspective of the result,

year, from players to coaches.

highlighted the importance of playing

but in the way that we missed tackles,

well in the first 5 minutes. Despite

Ben Mulholland – Denson 9

didn’t use the structures we had been

this, we conceded our first try after 1 minute 30 on the clock. After this we turned up the heat however, and with a few good tackles, runs and two tries each from centre partnership Toby Cook and Ben Mulholland we were on our way and put in perhaps the best performance of the season. We went on to beat them 29-12, which became

working on in training, couldn’t finish and didn’t use the possession that we clearly dominated. The game ended 12-5, an incredibly disappointing result which perhaps shouldn’t have happened when you look at the standard of play from the rest of our season.

B TEAM The U14B team have also had a really successful season with some great results, lots of new talented players coming through and further improvement from existing players. We had 6 fixtures, 4 of which were won and 2 that were narrowly lost.

more significant once we found out

Challoner’s gave us a reality check, a

that we were the only AGS team to

real wake up call. We were now more

beat RGS this season, apart from the

determined to end the season with 2

Year 7 C team, so hats off to them.

wins. The following week we played

Our first game of the season was

We were extremely pleased that we

Watford, a team who we knew hadn’t

against Campion School away, with

went into half term with 7 wins from 7.

lost a game all season. We trained

some excellent play and tries by

32

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

Luke Murray- Russell, Jasper Smith

However, we did our best to right that

but even after a great team try it

and Abdurrahman Aroworamimo .

wrong and having come back from

wasn’t enough and the game ended

However we did let in a few tries but

17-5 we went into the final play 17-17

15-24 to Magdalen.

still we confidently won the first game

thanks to tries by Shaun Bedwell,

of the season 36-17. Our next game

Sam Gilbert and Abdurrahman

was away to Bedford Modern, which

Aroworamimo. But unfortunately

featured tries from Oli McKenna,

we were just beaten, as one of their

Peter Sansome, Sam Gilbert and Ned

wingers got through our defence

Morris which, along with some great

to score a try. But it was massive

defence, gave us a 34-7 win.

improvement from last year despite

Jasper Smith on the way to a season

With lots of work at training we

still losing.

ending 17-5 win we had the season

wanted to show our improvement on

Next up were Magdalen College.

finale that our efforts deserved.

the pitch and our next game was at

We knew it was going to be a tough

home to Reading Blue Coat, a so far

Both A and B team squads would

game but as is common with our

like to thank both Mr Dean and Mr

group we lacked a bit in the first

McGill, not only for all the time they

part of the game but quickly woke

have given us this season, but also

up and went into half time 12-10 up

for somehow putting up with our

and some substitutions were made.

ridiculously questionable music

Unfortunately, in the second half our

choices in the changing room

defence was poor and we let in two

before games.

undefeated team. After a few mistakes in the first 15 minutes, we eventually started playing well and doing the things we’d been working on in training. We let in a couple of tries but came back to score two tries and win the game 12-10.

easy tries with big runners breaking

Next up were RGS who had beaten

our defensive line. We were 12-24

us thoroughly 46-7 the previous year.

down going into the last 10 minutes,

Our last game of the season was away against St Albans School and everyone wanted to end the season on a high and we did just that. With tries being scored yet again by Abdurrahman Aroworamimo and

Sam Gilbert – Denson 9

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

33

SPORT U13 Rugby A TEAM

has also improved tremendously and

The game against Northampton

they play a huge role in support and

epitomised this team. With our

creating our go forward play.

leader taken off early in the game

The backs (Alfie McIntosh, Patrick

Having a new team to work with in Year 8 is a new experience for me after previously working successfully with Year 7 and 8 on a 2-year cycle. In Year 7

McNulty, Captain Max Dolphin, Sam

this side showed a lot of individual

number of elusive runners that have

promise but they only managed one

caused havoc amongst defences on

win and even at the start of a new

our circuit. Previously I have worked

season this was still being reflected

with very forward orientated sides so

on by the players. The small squad

it was really nice to have the variety of

did, however, have some assistance

good hands and pace out wide from

from the Headmaster who did some

which we scored a number of tries.

excellent work in the summer transfer market and brought in 3 boys (Ethan Loi, Patrick McNulty and Sam Kearney) who all quickly established themselves as A team starters.

Kearney, Ethan Loi, Ollie Carolin, Matthew Sparke, Jack Tominey) have looked dangerous with the ball in hand all season and there are a

We have worked on improving and developing our game management but in truth, the boys have created their own brand of rugby. A brand that is exciting to watch and is often

As always the games came thick

described as the Barbarian way

and fast but something that became

such is their keenness to put the ball

apparent very quickly was the strong

through their hands even if they are in

squad unity and togetherness that

their own 22!

was demonstrated at training and in fixtures. In this respect, the small squad worked in our favour as the boys knew who they would be playing with week in week out and strong on field relationships were quickly formed.

Throughout the season the pack (Fin Spencer, Marcus Birch, Bar Heasman, Daniel Partridge, Harry Jones, Ed Cunningham and Max Wheaton) worked extremely hard to give us a good platform to play from and were certainly not afraid to put their body on the line for the team. Their carrying

34

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

and no more subs left it looked like a case of damage limitations as Northampton scored a couple of tries in quick succession. In fact, it was the complete opposite, the boys rolled their sleeves up and gave as good as they got, regularly scoring to stay in the game. We lost 35-25 and the boys came off the field devastated that they hadn’t won, this clearly demonstrates how far this team have come since Year 7.

Overall I am pleased to say that the results massively improved on last year. Our record is played 13 won 6 lost 7 and we were competitive and scored tries in every game we played.

I have thoroughly enjoyed coaching them this year and know they will continue to be a close knit group throughout their school years.

Mr R Rooney

B TEAM

everyone in their favourite position.

We were fortunate to obtain access to

Max Cornish played almost every

the new 4G artificial pitch at Aylesbury

position in the backline and developed

Rugby Club, which enabled us to train

massively as the season went on;

throughout January and February,

travelling away to Tring and winning

Will Greenfield moved between the

unhindered by the weather.

well. Travelling away to RGS High

forwards and the backs with ease and

Our warm up tournament was

Wycombe and playing some fantastic

is one of the few players I know that

at Bedford Modern where we

rugby was a personal highlight,

would be willing to do that. By the end

experimented team line-ups and

despite the result the team battled

of the season we had more players

structure. Narrow losses to Solihull

bravely against a strong opposition.

playing and were playing some

School and Northampton School for

That was really the story of our

fantastic rugby. For me this season

Boys were followed by wins against

season with the boys coming up

is not about the results, be them

Harrold School and Lincroft School.

against some very strong teams but

good or bad; it was about the squad

always battling and striving to do

developing and flourishing into great

their best. They may not have been

rugby players. I can only say a big

Next up was a visit to Solihull School

the biggest or the fastest but many

thank you to those boys that played

for their 7s tournament. This was

coaches complimented them on the

week in week out and I wish them the

a much bigger tournament with a

best of luck for next year’s season.

higher calibre of teams present. In

For the team this year the season was full of highs and lows. The highs included

brand of rugby they were playing. We were not blessed with the number of players this year but as a result the

Significant lessons were learnt and great potential shown.

our group we lost to Crypt School, Mr L Partridge

Gloucester in our first game, putting

group of 18 or so lads that played

us in a perilous position in terms of

week in week out built up some real

qualifying for the main competition

chemistry.

We had a front row of Ryan Sara, Sam Small and Theo Parfitt that played almost every minute of every game. We had possibly the smallest halfback partnership ever in Will

U13 Rugby 7s

in the afternoon. However, the team responded brilliantly beating Nottingham High School, Newbridge

A squad of 14 players were selected to train for rugby 7s in Year 8 this season.

and RGS Worcester. This gained us entry into the higher tier of matches in the afternoon where we mixed it with

Chapman and Rhys Hanling but their skill and creativity always saw them through. After recovering from a nasty knee injury early in the season Ed Campbell made a fantastic impact for us in the latter half of the season.

Amongst the team we had players with experience and others with less experience. I could always rely on the likes of Sean Morrell and Andreas Velimachitis to be available but also to do their best on the field. The lack of numbers made it challenging to play

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

35

SPORT Warwick, Loughborough, Pates and

matched by high levels of physicality

Lawrence Sheriff. Two wins and two

and athleticism.

losses were a respectful outcome for a hard day’s work. Overall we finished 9th out of 30 teams.

The whole squad contributed positively throughout the day but particular mention should be made

U12 Rugby Rugby in Year 7 is the first opportunity for new students to step up and join a club and hopefully represent the school in the first term. In an average

Our main target for the season was

of Harry Jones for his mature and

the Bucks Round of the Northampton

positive leadership, Matt Sparke for

Saints Elite Insurance 7s tournament

his resilience playing almost every

held at Stowe School. The winner

minute of every game, Ethan Loi for

year we may get 50 or so boys in the

of this tournament would represent

his deadly finishing and to Year 7s

first few weeks at training, but this

Bucks at the Inter-regional Finals Day

Harry Wilson, Harry Wyatt and Charlie

year we got close to 80 boys in the

at Franklin’s Garden. On a glorious

Shepherd who all played on the team

first few training sessions which was

day, AGS set about defending their

a year young.

amazing! We anticipated that this

title from last year. Wins in the group stages against Chalfonts, Cottesloe and Sir William Ramsay ensured we went through to the knockout stages as group winners. In the Quarter Final, we beat Sir William Ramsay

At Franklin’s Gardens representing Bucks against Oxfordshire, Suffolk, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northants AGS continued their amazing run winning the

again. John Hampden was dispatched

bowl competition on the day

in the semi-final and Quinton House

which culminated in a strong win

School in the final. The most pleasing

against Lincroft School in the final.

aspect was that in the final game of

Congratulations to all those who took

the day, the team played their most

part in such a memorable season.

impressive 7s of the season. Plans were executed to perfection and

Mr G Ramsbottom

number would fall away and it did, to around 70! So with all these players Mr Gibbs expected there to be some talent and how right he was too. From the beginning, and in fact from the Year 7 sports camp it was evident that we had the makings of an excellent squad and not just in the A team as there was clear strength and depth.

This season we saw a number of firsts; The highest number of students at a practice from one year group (79). The first time for many years that we put 4 teams against one opposition. The highest points scored by a Year 7 team in one match, (95 vs. John Hampden Grammar School).

And all four teams winning more games than they lost over the course of the season.

36

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

The squad as whole performed well, the A team captained by George Birch

U12 Rugby 7s

highlighted as one of the tournament favourites. The last game of the

won 6 and lost 4, and the B team captained by Ben Warner, won 5 lost

tournament turned out to be the

A squad of 14 players was selected in January to train for their first experience of Rugby 7s. We were fortunate to obtain

two unbeaten teams on the day

access to the new 4G artificial

play our best in this final game with

surface at Aylesbury Rugby Club,

fatigue playing a big part at the end

of all boys involved at each and

which enabled us to have a perfect

of a long day. We lost the game

every level of the squad and that

surface to train on throughout

three scores to one against a very

they should be immensely pleased

a month of poor weather and

impressive opposition. However,

with their achievements. There have

challenging conditions.

this didn’t take the gloss off a very

3. The C team won 2 and lost 1 and the D team was unbeaten winning their only game.

I have been especially pleased with the attitude, effort and commitment

been lots of brilliant performances, too many to recount, from forwards in

The team were entered into a

the breakdown to wingers finishing try

tournament at Magdalen School,

after try.

Oxford on Sunday 5 February. The

Also there may have been a few players who might have felt that they should have been playing in a better team. But my message to you is to stay the course, and keep applying yourself in training, because if you are good enough then you will be noticed.

Stay resilient and keep trying.

Mr N Gibbs

playing each other for the title – AGS vs Wellinborough Prep School. Unfortunately, we didn’t

successful day and a fantastic performance in their first ever rugby 7s tournament.

tournament was based on a round-

Harry Wyatt, Harry Wilson and

robin format where every school

Charlie Shepherd all played with

played each other. Five wins were

great maturity and ability, resulting in

achieved in our first five games

their call up to the Year 8 squad for

against Magdalen, Akeley Wood,

the remainder of the season. George

Portsmouth Grammar, Bro

Birch demonstrated a fantastic

Morganwg and KES Birmingham.

side-step and vision to spot a gap.

The win against Portsmouth

Josh Davidson impressed with his

Grammar was particularly

athleticism and strong running,

impressive as they had been

whilst Josh Armstrong proved to be a very strong ball carrier. Everyone in the squad contributed significantly and the team should look forward to next season with added optimism and confidence.

Mr G Ramsbottom

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

37

SPORT 1st XI Football 2016-17 has undoubtedly been a highly successful season in which we won 21 of our 26 matches and scored a record 121 goals. Two players (Sam Nicholson and Tom McElroy) hit the 20 goal mark and the team got to the last 32 of the National Cup, bowing out 2-1 away at a very strong Hampton School. However, when you finish the season without a trophy, with such a talented and committed squad, you have to consider what might have been.

The ESFA National Cup is always an unknown quality. We faced 3 strong teams in the form of Roundwood Park, Grieg City Academy and Cherwell School. All 3 were beaten by a margin of at least 4 goals. We then received a bye in Round 4 after our opponents were withdrawn from the competition. AGS had therefore advanced to the last 32 nationally – our best run for several years. We

1st XI only played 2 matches after a

from Blew Foley. We then defeated

biblical downpour led to a cancellation

Hazely 5-2 in the Quarter Finals. We

of our second fixture. Our first game

did not play our County Cup Semi

against Ambrosiana reminded me of

Final until mid-February and the

Millwall away in the 1980s and yes,

much anticipated game would end

our coach window did get smashed

in disappointment against a strong

by the locals. We lost a close game

and resilient Sir William Borlase.

3-2 against a team who were quite

At half time a very tight game was

good but had a clear aversion to a

level at 0-0, before our opponents

hard but fair English style tackle. The

grabbed the lead slightly against

second match was a totally different

the run of play. With AGS gambling

story – nice opponents, a welcoming

with 3 at the back, Harvey Thorne

atmosphere and a 13-1 win with Tom

grabbed an equaliser with a minute

McElroy and Ore Soetan grabbing

remaining to take the game into extra

hat-tricks. With time together to train

time. Unfortunately we lost influential

properly and also the opportunity to

centre half Dave Webb to a nasty

see Atalanta v Inter Milan and Chievo

head wound and seconds later, with

v Bologna it all made for a successful

our defence still adjusting to Dave’s

and very enjoyable tour.

loss, Sir William Borlase grabbed the

Our progress in the early stages of the County Cup, emerging from a tough group, was impressive. We beat

was that we didn’t lose on penalties this year.

John Hampden 4-1 away from home,

With cup commitments over, we

having trailed 1-0 and although we

switched to a series of spring

did not play as well at home to County

friendlies. Our performances were

Cup holders Royal Latin, we showed

generally good although we did

real character to come back from 2

manage to lose a couple of games we

goals down to grab a last gasp winner

should have won or at least drawn.

then travelled to Hampton School in Round 5. Having competed well in the 1st half, it was therefore disappointing to concede 2 goals within a minute before the break. We could have crumbled but didn’t. In the second half the team showed real character to drag themselves back into contention.

A Sam Kemp header halved the deficit and we did have chances to equalise in a narrow 2-1 defeat.

In October we set off with 3 teams for our biennial Continental tour, this time returning to the beautiful Lake Garda region of Northern Italy. The

38

decisive goal. The only consolation

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

Our performance away at Bedford Modern in a 6-0 win (normally one of our toughest games of the season) was outstanding. Merchant Taylors, St Columba’s and Haberdashers’ were also despatched in high scoring games.

I very much enjoyed working with the squad this year and I believe that with the pool of Year 12 players we have (many of whom have experienced plenty of game time in the 1st XI) we have what it takes to be successful next season. I would particularly like to congratulate our departing Year 13 players, who have been a credit to AGS. I hope that they will keep playing to a high standard at university and beyond.

Stats of the Season.

Played:

26

Won:

21

Lost :

5

Goals For:

121

Drew:

0

Goals Against:

37

Top Scorer:

Sam Nicholson 22 Tom McElroy 23

Most Appearances:

Tom McElroy

Worst performance:

Denbigh at home (lost 2-3)

24

Best performance:

Bedford Modern

away (won 6-0) Mr J Barrie

U15 Football Unfortunately, this season started with disappointment.

After an impressive win in the first round of the County Cup, we drew a typically solid and robust John Hampden side in the second round.

A tense and close affair, which could have really gone either way, resulted in a disappointing 1-0 loss and only the District Cup to look forward to in terms of potential silverware for this year.

After Christmas, the weekend friendlies and District Cup started and the team seriously began to get into their stride. A combination of impressive goalkeeping, resolute defending and free flowing attacking play led to some very impressive wins and performances resulting in a place in the knockout stages of the area cup. Disappointingly, we fell at the first hurdle. The semi-final draw pitted us against a very pumped up, aggressive and physically imposing Floyd team who had qualified out of their group somewhat comfortably.

The sloping pitch and wind played its part in the result but we cannot feel too aggrieved and have to admit on the day they simply wanted it more and played the conditions better.

I would like to thank all the players who have represented the Year 10 A team this year. Ollie Twidale has demonstrated excellent authority as our goalkeeper pulling off some excellent saves throughout the course of the season. Our defence has kept an incredible amount of clean sheets this year and this is primarily down to the no nonsense

approach from our centre back Harry Edmonds, Tom Giles and Jack Burns. Our full backs Harry Cook, Ben Jacobs and Lloyd Harman have shown themselves to not only be dependable in defence but also a threat going forward attacking the flanks from deep. Complementing them in the wide areas, the pace, trickery and pinpoint crossing of Ben Ratcliffe, Nikhil Kalapala and Owen Williams has been outstanding at times and been the source of many of our goals this year. Our centre midfield has been exceptionally combative and brought real steel to our team. Ben Bishop, Ollie Cay, Cam Ross and James Atkinson have provided superb defensive cover for our back 4, as well as composure on the ball going forward. Our forward line has had an excellent year so far. Michael Ameshike, Elton Atat and Endurance Rich have all applied their pace, power, and precision shooting to devastating effect this year, much to the dismay of the opposition. Although the season finished in disappointing fashion, it is a loss to learn from and there is excellent potential in this team.

I would like to finish by thanking Ollie Speake, Ben Parkinson and James Head for their cameo appearances for the A team this term. They were short, fleeting, but very impressive. In addition, a special mention must be made to the Year 10 B team who have had their season unfortunately cut short by fixture cancellations. Mr Holmes assures me there were some very good performances and I look forward to seeing you back representing the school in Year 11.

Mr G Davey

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

39

SPORT U14 Football Another year and the same set of challenges needed to be overcome by the current crop of Year 9 footballers. A squad of 40 players was put together, based on their performances during games lessons last year. The squad was announced during the Autumn term and all members waited patiently for the first training sessions to take place just before Christmas. The next challenge was to select squads for our first set of friendly games in the new term, from which starting XIs had to then be selected, formations needed to be chosen and players selected to fit positions. With a series of friendlies to play before the start of the District Cup designed to help with this process, there is still no denying that we start each Year 9 season at a disadvantage compared to other schools, but we always challenge and are extremely competitive and this year group was no exception.

A TEAM Maybe it was a surprise to themselves, but the first friendly against Reading Blue Coat produced a pleasing performance and a 4-3 win, showing that we had goals in us from the likes of Alex Butler, but that work needed to be done on team shape.

This was highlighted in the 3-1 loss to Abingdon School in our next game, where a fast and big all weather surface exposed areas that needed to be worked on in training. This we did, thanks to the hard work of the squad, but cancelled games against St Columba’s and Dr Challoner’s did not help with our preparation for our District Cup campaign. Despite this, having showed the ability to play good possession football in our first

40

two games, we took this into our first District Cup game against the AVA and produced and excellent 4-2 win, with a brace from coming from Jack Dyer and one a piece from Alex Butler and Tobi Dairo. This was followed up by another impressive 4-0 win against The Grange, which was played in difficult windy conditions, where both Toby Dairo and Ned Morris provided us with great width and attacking intent, particularly in the first half.

Our next game against a good Sir Thomas Freemantle team produced another 4-0 win and included braces from Jack Dyer and Harry Shaw.

This put us in a strong position in our group, although the performance was not as strong as in previous games.

Having said this, players such as Tom Kemp, Ryan Connor, Ted Gundry and Albie Whittemore were impressing in their chosen roles and the mood in the squad was positive. Perhaps typical of many AGS teams, having gotten into a position of strength, we then made things more difficult for ourselves by drawing 2-2 with The Buckingham School and then losing 2-0 at The Cottesloe. Both of these games were played on tricky pitches against opponents who pressurised us and made things difficult when we had the ball. Despite this wobble, the squad rightly earned itself a place in the District Cup Semi-Finals against John Colet. Producing probably our best team performance all season, we took the lead in this game thanks to a

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

goal from Jack Dyer, but a spectacular equaliser from the Colet took the game into extra-time and ultimately penalties which, unfortunately, we lost. This was a cruel way to end the season, but all who were involved in this game should be proud of their considerable efforts.

B TEAM Like the A’s, the B Team’s season, which is made up purely of friendly fixtures, was seriously affected by the weather and they only managed to play 2 games. Despite this, a 2-2 draw with Reading Blue Coat (Sam Gibbs and Jack Dyer with the goals) and a well-deserved 2-1 win against Bedford Modern (Logan Smith and Joe Barnett with the goals) were just rewards for the work and effort put in by all squad members who played and trained for the B’s this year. The fact that so many players were willing to commit to the squad and keep training despite the loss of so many games due to poor weather, is a testimony to the attitude of the whole squad and bodes well for the future.

Both Mr McGill and Mr Rooney would like to thank all boys who have been involved in this year’s squads for their considerable time and effort this season. It has been extremely enjoyable and we look forward to seeing your progress in the AGS football shirt in the coming years.

Mr C McGill

1st XI Cricket The 2017 season for the AGS 1st XI was a mixed one, playing 9, winning 4 and losing 5.

We had a difficult start, losing 3 consecutive games against the strong opposition of RGS High Wycombe, Dr Challoner’s and Berkhamsted School, despite playing some good cricket. We scored 210-7 trying to chase RGS’s impressive total of 246-6 and bowled out a strong Dr Challoner’s side. Our first win came against Akeley Wood, in an extraordinary game with only 86 runs being scored, but a convincing victory in the end nonetheless. We only managed 57 all out batting first but managed to then bowl them out for 29. Next, we travelled away to Bancrofts School, where we were convincingly beaten by 117 runs by a very strong side which we could not match. The highlight of our season then came as we won the plate at the Reading Blue Coat T20 Festival. After losing a close game to begin with against Stamford School (who then went on to win the competition), we comfortably beat Reading School in the semi-final.

Forrest School were our opponents in the plate final and we put on a very professional performance to beat them convincingly (Forrest 108 all out, AGS 109-3 off 14 overs).

To conclude the season, we played John Hampden, and we rounded the season off with a resounding 37 run victory.

that have fully committed to Senior cricket this year (training and fixtures). Training will start again in January and I hope to see as many boys there as possible so that we can plan for more 2nd XI fixtures.

With lots of young players this year (Y10, Y11 and Y12 boys), we laid the foundation and next year we will look to kick on in terms of results.

A big thank you also goes to all of the Y13 boys who have committed to school cricket over several years including Will Fisher (Captain), Tom Darling and Matt Dimbleby.

Best batting performances Toby Simon 65 (vs RGS HW) Tom Carter 63 (vs JHGS) Will Fisher 60 (vs Reading School) Ben Jacobs 55* (vs JHGS) Will Fisher 45 (vs RGS HW) Max Hutt 44 (vs Forrest School) Matt Dimbleby 41 off 18 balls (T20 vs Stamford)

Best bowling performances Tom Faulkner 5 for 17 off 4 overs (vs Forrest School) Will Fisher 4 for 4 off 5 overs, including a hat trick (vs AWS) Will Fisher 4 for 22 off 4 overs (vs Stamford) Tom Faulkner 3 for 1 off 3 overs (vs AWS) Max Hutt 3 for 21 off 4 overs (vs DCGS) Tom Darling 3 for 24 off 5 overs (vs DCGS) Billy Jackson 3 for 29 off 3 overs (vs Stamford) Usman Khan 3 for 34 off 6 overs (vs JHGS)

Best fielding performance Jacob Davis with 4 catches (vs JHGS) Mr R Rooney Will Fisher – Phillips 13

The small squad this year has punched well above their weight against top quality opposition and I would like to thank all the boys

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

41

SPORT U15 Cricket

Grammar School. A quick flurry of wickets appeared to have crippled

U13 Cricket

the side but the tail wagged and

The season started well with a 3 wicket win in a 25 over fixture against RGS followed by a comfortable 9 wicket win away at John Hampden Grammar school in the County Cup. Unfortunately, the early success was followed by successive losses.

A fine bowling and fielding performance saw the side control the first innings away at RGS and limit

AGS finished with 87 runs off their 25 overs.

The need to be aggressive and inventive in the field allowed DCGS to score freely at times but with a low total that was the only possible approach for AGS. Some great fielding and persistence with the ball helped AGS make a game of it as they claimed 4 wickets before DCGS

Coming off of a very successful cricket season last year, the Year 8’s had a lot to live up to!

Training started in April with a great number turning up, and many continued to turn up to training after school on Wednesdays throughout the whole season, which is a huge positive and shows great commitment.

made the total with overs to spare.

A TEAM

over allotment. However, the quality of

The remainder of the season will

The Year 8’s first game was against

performance could not be replicated

see the side take on John Hampden

The Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’

with the bat and the AGS side slipped

Grammar School once more, as well

to 78 all out.

as an exciting day at Berkhamsted

the home team to 97-7 off their 20

The lessons learnt from that result looked to have been implemented in the following game as the openers moved to a comfortable 30 run partnership at home to Dr Challoner’s

school for a 6-a-side tournament. The boys will hope they can rediscover their early season form in time for the remaining fixtures.

Mr L Gardiner

School and was a National Cup fixture. We came into this game with no school match experience and as a result, our batting performance was not as we would have hoped and we were bowled out for 79 runs.

Despite a couple of wickets from Bhavan Jeyanathan and Dinath Alwis, Haberdashers’ beat this total with 6 wickets to spare and our National Cup was over, which was disappointing for all involved.

Next up came our rivals, Royal Grammar School. This is always a tough match, but after beating them in the County Cup final last year, the pressure was arguably on them. In the blazing sun we were sent in to bat, and some steady partnerships got us to 116 for 3 off of 20 overs, which was a great total on home soil. This included an impressive 40 not out from Danyaal Khalid. After a quick turnover our bowlers soon got stuck into the RGS attack and we restricted them to 73 for 6, giving us a fantastic 43 run win.

42

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

Bedford Modern School was next

managed to match Challoner’s run

rotation, results were not the most

on the fixture list. We were sent in to

rate in the early part of our innings,

important outcomes. There were

bat on their ground which featured

but after some quick wickets and

some good individual performances

an extremely small boundary. This

slow runs, we were struggling and

helped us to set a mammoth total of

were eventually bowled out for a

in the losses against Bedford Modern

224, which was achieved through

respectable 89. Our County Cup

some excellent batting performances

defence was over.

from Sparke (50), Danyaal (46) and Dinath (35). Though the job was nowhere near done, we defended this total extremely well by bowling Bedford all out for 102, winning by a whopping 122 runs. Highlights from the bowlers included 3 wickets from Videet Vadalia as well as a run out and a catch from our man behind the stumps, Kaustubh Singh.

Next, came a trip to the very strong cricketing side of Magdalen College

School and Magdalen College, as well as in the win against Bloxham School, from the likes of Daniel

We have had some bumps along the

Partridge, Jonathan Gopal and Matt

way this year and luck was not on

Manley. All who played for the B team

our side when we failed to defend our

this year looked like they enjoyed the

County Cup title. Important games coming early in the season and many injuries leading to players being out of action for extended periods of time definitely had an effect on this season’s success, however we are determined to come back stronger next year.

experience and hopefully, they will have more fixtures to get stuck into next year.

Mr McGill and Mr Thompson would like to thank all boys involved in this year’s cricket for their time and effort throughout the season and

B TEAM

wish them the very best of luck next

below-par total of 89-3. We managed

As a result of cancellations due to

season.

to hold them back for 16 overs, but

poor weather, the B team season

they eventually won comfortably by

was restricted to just 3 games this

5 wickets.

year and with a policy of squad

School. We batted first and set a

Bhavan Jeyanathan – Lee 8

After this came John Hampden Grammar School; we didn’t play them last year and were thus unaware of their strengths and weaknesses. We started by bowling first and JHGS scored a par 120. The chase for 121 came down to the wire and we won a thrilling game with 4 wickets to spare, thanks to Danyaal hitting a six off the last ball to win with 5 runs needed!

The County Cup Semi-finals were up next up, with AGS going to Dr Challoner’s. It was a bowler’s pitch and we wanted to bat first, but we lost the toss and had to take to the field first. Despite this, we got their openers out early, before consecutive quick runs from their mid order saw them total 121 for 8. We

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

43

SPORT U12 Cricket The team had a mixed year with four losses and three wins. Our first match against RGS was always going to be tough as they had a very

his head. Sledged out. We finished

in the season as we faced Akeley

40 short on 93.

Wood in the cup. We continued our

Next up was Reading Blue Coat.

Batting first, we improved on our first performance posting a respectable score of 110. James Whitehead chipped in with a measured 27 and

good team with lots of county players.

Archie Dodds top scored with 32.

We bowled first and managed to

The Reading innings got off to a

restrict them to 133 for 7, which was

dramatic start with 5 wickets falling

a good effort considering 83 of their

for 16 runs, three to exceptional run

runs were scored by just 2 players.

outs. We could not capitalise on this

Ben Kearney had a good day taking

unfortunately and they got to the

4 wickets for 19 runs. Our chase did

score without losing another wicket.

not get off to the best start with a wicket off the first ball of the season - a platinum duck! Unfortunately, it did not go well from there apart from a great innings from Archie Dodds.

With batsmen falling all around him he managed to hit 33, eventually caught on the boundary after his county mate had bet him he could not hit him over

Bedford Modern were our next opponents and despite a good bowling performance, all out for 128, our batting let us down again and we collapsed to 82 all out on a pretty dodgy wicket. Top scorer was Archie Dodds with another 34.

Things picked up from this point

good bowling improvement and skittled them out for 74. We knocked these off with the minimum of fuss, only losing one wicket with Jack Callaghan and Archie batting the whole way through until Archie holed out on the boundary going for his fifty and the winning runs on 46. I would love to tell you what Jack scored and who took the wickets (which I think was George Birch) but unfortunately Sir only has statistics for 5 of our 7 games.

Our next match against eventual county champions Dr Challoner’s did not go so well. They scored 177 for 3 due mainly to our shocking catching. Although we dropped about 10, Ben Perkin took a brilliant catch to dismiss one of their best batsmen.

We limped to 103 all out in response with a belligerent knock from Ben Perkin who scored 34 not out and Ben Kearney who smashed 28 off 22 balls.

Magdalen School proved easier opposition the following week.

Batting first, they only managed 79 for 9 in their 9 overs with Dan Sudbury taking 3 wickets and Jack Callaghan 2. Jack then proceeded to hammer 30 not out off 27 balls including 5 fours at a strike rate of Nelson and a retirement. He was ably supported by Zac Fish who scored 11 but stayed with him for a long time. We won comfortably by 6 wickets with Ben Kearney bringing us home with a six.

44

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

The final game of the year against Bloxham showed how much we

U16 Basketball

not keep their composure and invited Bohunt back into the game with some unforced turnovers, resulting in

had improved. Batting first we lost

to get to double figures they were

The U16 basketball team consisting of Year 10s and 11s have had a good year, winning the Bucks County Cup Final to progress to the National Schools’ competition.

the perfect pair. With the pressure

Despite their success on a county

2 early wickets in the first 3 overs for 18 runs, things did not look good until Dan Sudbury, and Archie came together. With Archie desperate to score his first fifty and Dan desperate

of the situation pressing on them, they had to perform, and they did not let the team down. 137 runs later they had posted the biggest score

easy scores for Bohunt and a tough to take 79-75 loss for AGS. Despite the disappointing loss v Bohunt we were still in a good position to win our group with one more fixture left to play away to the North School. Although still not at full

level the boys will still feel like they

strength in terms of players available,

under-performed this season and could go much further in the National competition next year.

we were determined to win. However very controversially after a long 2.5 hour drive the referee gave us only

of the season and both achieved

In a very tough South region group in

5 mins to get changed and warm up

their maiden school fifties with Dan

the Nationals we got off to a perfect

before tip off. Inevitably we were very

finishing on 58 not out off 48 balls

start with 2 wins from 2 games

slow out of the blocks with no warm

and Archie on 66 not out off 68.

including a very promising victory

up and never really looked like we

Bloxham were immediately under the

against local rivals Denbigh School.

had got out of the minibus until the

pump. They got off to a decent start

Then came our first loss away v

second half by which time it was too

but once James Whitehead removed

Bohunt School in Southampton.

little too late and we took our second

Rather disappointingly we were

loss 74-56 to The North School. This

missing key players that dropped

unfortunately meant we would not

out of the fixture at the last minute

advance past the group stages and

however we still had a comfortable

ironically one of the teams we did

15 point lead with only 5 minutes left

beat, Denbigh, progressed in our

to play. Unfortunately the boys could

place as group winners.

their two best batsmen, their innings crumbled. James finished with 4 wickets and Dan and Archie chipped in with 2 each.

Despite the mixed results, we have had a really enjoyable season and look forward to continuing our late run of form into next season.

Thanks to Mr Gibbs for managing us, organising all our fixtures and our training.

Archie Dodds – Lee 7

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

45

SPORT This does show to the boys that they are much more capable than they believe. With continued commitment and a lot more composure they can certainly push for better placings next year.

Standout performers for the U16 boys this year have been Robert Preston in Year 11 who was nicknamed Mr Fundamentals by the coaches during his spell at a Basketball Camp in Spain. Robert is a very technically sound player who now just needs a more consistently aggressive approach to the game in order to really reach his full potential.

Joslyn McLeod in Year 10 has also shown great potential as a regular starter and one of our more consistent scorers. Joslyn is very versatile and can play in many

46

positions. Joslyn has also been a regular inclusion at the U15 Boys South Regional Performance Centre.

Also in Year 10 Luke Parry has been a relatively late starter to basketball but in only one season has improved immensely to earn himself a starting 5 position. Luke is very determined and fearless which makes him a great defender and he is also starting to show promising signs at the offensive end of the court too.

The final mention goes to another Year 10 boy, Harvey Newland-Smith.

Harvey has been putting some extra hours in, spending time taking extra shots at home. As a result he has developed an excellent eye for the basket from long range and is now establishing himself as our 3 point specialist.

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

Well done and thank you to all of the boys in both years who have played hard and trained with the basketball team this year.

Mr L McCarthy

U14 Basketball The U14 basketball team consisting of Year 8s and 9s have had a very good year convincingly beating Dr Challoner’s in the County Cup Final to progress to the National Schools’ Competition.

The team has also seen the welcome addition of some new Year 9 boys that did not play regularly at all last year.

Although still slightly behind where he could be in his technical ability, Babatunde Johnson was immense in the County Cup final v Challoner’s, grabbing both offensive and defensive rebounds and also scoring consistently under the basket to earn the cries of “MVP, MVP” from his team mates. Backing up Baba in the rebounding department Tayo Oluranti-Ahmed has also been a welcome addition to the team this year.

Another standout performer in the County Cup Final was Jeremy Thuriarajah who was backed up very well by Ollie Carolyn in Year 8 who himself has been a regular at the AGS Junior Academy and showing lots of promise. Despite not having the tall and rangy physical attributes associated with your typical basketball player, Jeremy more than makes up for this with his excellent technical ability at the point guard position. Dr Challoner’s highlighted this very well as they struggled to stop Jeremy from putting points on the board whenever he thought it necessary.

Miles Lewis, Oscar Cole, Toby Dairo and Alfred Charlesworth all put in great defensive performances and also deserve a mention for their contributions too.

Despite all their efforts the National Competition that followed just proved to be slightly too much for our U14 boys as the same squad that beat Challoner’s lost narrowly to Little Heath School 55-59 in the first knockout stage. If this team can now show the same commitment next year then they certainly have the potential to go much further in the national competition.

Joe Nicholson and David Williams (Year 8) were also selected into the Bucks U13 County squad for 2017, unfortunately some others just narrowly missed out due to their year of birth falling in 2003.

Congratulations to these boys and a huge well done all around to the team for winning back the U14 Basketball County Cup. Mr L McCarthy

U12 Basketball The U12 basketball team have had a very promising year losing only to Dr Challoner’s in the County Cup Final by a narrow 1 point margin. The boys also played in the National Schools’ competition beating Ashcombe School from Surrey very convincingly.

In the following game the boys came up against Holy Trinity School who had also made the final of the Junior NBA Schools’ Competition so the

odds were against us to win. The play of the season was in the game v Holy Trinity as Gavin Thuriarajah’s shot and scored a half way line buzzer beater. Both the opposition and our own bench all jumped up to cheer at the play by Gavin but sadly it was just not quite enough to get the win. That said the boys were very competitive and with a few more games under their belt may have been able to turn the result around.

A good number of Year 7 boys joined the AGS Junior Basketball Academy at the beginning of the year and are now beginning to reap the benefits as the extra work they are putting into their development is beginning to show. Some of these same boys also represented the Junior Academy in the Bucks Junior Basketball League which involved playing some extra fixtures once a month on a Sunday.

This has really helped to further the development of the players that have signed up to the Junior Academy and as a result the following boys were also selected into the Bucks U13 County squad: Alex Brown (Lee 7), Artyno Martyre-Cuthbert (Lee 7), Torin Pearson (Philips 7), Krishan Mistry (Philips 7), Joe Barber (Denson 7) and Nick Beale (Ridley 7) Congratulations to these boys and well done to all the U12 basketball players for a good year.

Mr L McCarthy

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47

SPORT Handball

Mandeville Stadium in January.

and the development of a plethora of

A typically poor AGS start left our

players over the coming months led

Year 10s with a mountain to climb

to an incredibly strong team being

The past year of handball

early on, finishing runners-up in the

fielded in the regional competition at

at AGS has seen more than

competition to a strong, athletic and

the beginning of May.

50 students introduced into

dynamic John Hampden side. Stand

competitive match-play, with

out performers included George

more than a tenth of these continuing their game through pathways outside of school.

In addition to this, our Year 9 club (despite only running for a few weeks) saw 45 students immersed in the game of handball, a great sign of potential as they move into the Year 10 squad next year! As far as our performance in the school competitions has been concerned,

Bates with his defensive aggression, Ben Bishop with his decision making as the team’s playmaker, Elton Atat’s ability to break a defensive line and the combined work of Tom Sheehan

praised by the competition organisers and opposition for their attractive brand of handball, the AGS side was too much for many of the opposing teams from across the South East.

and Tom Giles in the pivot role. Not

They recorded a full set of victories,

qualifying for the regional competition

which was amplified by the success

was a massive disappointment for

of Harry Jones and Sam Hurley-Cook

the team, especially given some

in the back positions, as well as Max

of the calibre of players that were

Dolphin and Ollie Flecknell on the

involved, although it was refreshing

line once again.

and encouraging to see their

it has once again been a very

continued attendance at training

satisfying year with large levels

and dedication towards following the

of success.

sport with pathways such as Olympic

Both Year 8 and Year 10 teams

Looking confident throughout and

Catulleviani (the local feeder club).

The ship to the finals would not run as smoothly as it seemed, though, as upon winning the regional competition we were made aware of a slight oversight on our part: there

dominated the district competition

On the other hand, the Year 8 team

was a German trip in Cologne over

early in the year, being crowned

moved from strength to strength

the weekend of the national finals,

champions in their respective age

throughout the season. After winning

which would take half (eight) of our

groups and what would transpire

the county championship (despite

squad with it!

to be a ranking tournament for

some nervous moments in the early

the county competition at Stoke

rounds once again!), diligent training

After a frivolous period of recruitment and retraining, the squad had transformed for the nationals into one combining experience and raw talent.

Despite losing a few major players in the likes of Patrick McNulty, Harry Jones and Sam Hurley-Cook to the trip, the more established players in Sam Kearney, Max Dolphin, Nathan McDonald, Ashre Moses, Evan Byles and Max Wheaton stood up to the challenge and led the squad through an excellent tournament.

The standard of the competition was

48

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

a significant increase in comparison to previous tournaments, with the

Tennis

beating Luca Louis 6-1 6-0. AGS then won the initial doubles with Dean and Good beating Tomasson

inexperience of the side exposing them slightly and costing the team the first couple of games. However, AGS played their way back into the fight (with the exceptional goalkeeping of Nathan playing a significant part) and picked up enough momentum in the final games to see them take 4th place in the finals overall, narrowly missing out on a medal place due to head-

Seniors

and Tansey 6-1 6-0. An outstanding win in extremely hot conditions, AGS

The Senior Team of Oscar Glenister (Ph13), Daniel Dean (R11), James Weller (Pa11), Joel Good (Ph9) and Max Forgham (R13) have qualified for The National Schools’ Competition 2017. We received

moved on to the next round.

AGS were in the Regional Final for the 4th year in succession, an outstanding achievement for a state school. Our opponents were Cooper’s Coborn School, Essex.

a bye in the 1st Round and then met

The match was an away fixture and

Bancroft’s School, Essex in Round 2.

to-head records; an incredible

hosted at Cooper’s Coborn School,

This was always going to be a tough

achievement, journey and experience

on courts which had certainly seen

match for our young side, with the

for all involved. A huge thank you

better days. AGS got off to a mixed

tie being played indoors on carpet,

needs to go out to Oli Carolin, Jude

start in the singles, Oscar Glenister

a notoriously fast and sometimes

Guest-Brainch, Truman Alvalle, Ben

suffering from hand and shoulder

difficult surface.

injuries lost 6-2 5-7 10-8 to Neo

Embury and Will Chapman, who represented the school so well in the nationals, despite having played little or no competitive handball before.

Mr McGill and I await with great excitement the future handball

Wren. At No. 2 Daniel Dean was too

AGS won the tie 10-2; Daniel Dean

good for Tobi Dunlea winning 6-2

beat Alex Dodds 6-4 7-5, J Weller

6-3, whilst James Weller took the

beat David Nana 7-6 7-5, J Good beat Kail Francis 6-0 6-1 and Krishna

first set, but eventually lost in a tie-

Chintamreddy beat T Meyers 6-0 6-1.

break, losing 6-4 3-6 5-10 to Jamie Bixby. Joel Good, playing well, again

We moved on to our Regional Semi-

secured a much needed singles

Final away against Highgate School.

win 6-3 6-1 over Sam King. So it

On paper AGS were the weaker

would be decided by the doubles.

team, however our players are

AGS had real concerns and major

always more than happy to put up a

issues: Oscar Glenister’s hand had

fight. Oscar Glenister returning from

got worse, he was struggling to play

Well done and thank you to all of the

injury lost to Daniel Vishnick 1-6 2-6,

backhand shots and serve! However

boys in both years who have played

Daniel Dean had a real battle with

hard and trained with the Handball

Ingimar Tomasson but as is often

team this year.

the case in Daniel’s matches, he

successes of those that have been involved in the programme this year and thank them very much for their hard work, enthusiasm and commitment over the year.

it just had to be done, Glenister and Dean beat Wren and Dulea

likes to keep his opponents on court Adam Woodage - Phillips 12

and make it as tough as possible for them. Eventually he came through with an excellent 6-2 4-6 10-3 win, against an older and higher rated player. James Weller again won at

6-4 6-4, then Weller and Good took the second doubles for AGS 7-6 6-3; a really tough day on court, far harder than form and rankings would suggest, but AGS do know how to win at this level…

No. 3 beating Sam Tansey 7-5 6-1

AGS, with a still fairly young and

and Joel Good won easily at No. 4

now a little more experienced

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49

SPORT was all square going into the doubles rubbers. AGS then won the No. 1 doubles match through Mentiply and Perkin 7/6, but then lost the second doubles and then unfortunately the “Shoot Out” 3-10. The team is young and nearly all available next year, so we have the chance to put this right.

parental support and a good deal

Dr Challoner’s are a strong side and this, our final match, would again decide the Buckinghamshire Champions and who would progress to the latter stages of The Aegon competition. Joel Good at No. 1 recorded a very good win over Brendan Emmanuel, however, unfortunately we lost all three remaining singles and the first doubles. This meant AGS lost the match and therefore did not progress to the national stages of the competition.

of dedication, has resulted in these

Year 7/8 Aegon Team

The season culminated with the annual Tennis Trip to Wimbledon on the 4th July and the students really enjoyed watching some excellent tennis on No. 1 court, in particular the final match of the day between Thiem and Pospisil; Dominic Thiem is an amazing player and surely a future Grand Slam winner.

team, has once again made “The National Schools’ Tennis Finals”, which is made up of the top 16 senior school sides in GB. It is worth noting that most of these schools are independent and offer a number of tennis scholarships to talented junior players. AGS is lucky to have a team of five students, who all train at Halton Tennis Centre under the watchful eye of Mike James and his group of coaches. Many thousands of hours, a tremendous amount of

AGS players reaching this high level.

The Senior National Finals took place in early July at Nottingham Tennis Centre. Despite the valiant efforts of our four-man team (Oscar Glenister, Daniel Dean, Joel Good and James Weller) the team finished overall in 13th place. We were disappointed with the result and felt we were a little below par during the tournament and the nightmare draw and matches shortened due to the poor weather didn’t help either! However to finish with AGS placed 13th in the country cannot be underestimated and a fantastic achievement for those involved – Well done!

Year 9/10 Aegon Team Our season started in the best possible way with a 10/2 win away at Akeley Wood School, with good singles wins for Joel Good, Freddie Perkin and Cameron Brown. The boys then paired up with Dylan Sellors to win both doubles matches.

Our next match was against RGS, with AGS taking the win comfortably 8-4.

50

A really good season from our youngsters, with much promise being shown for the future. This was highlighted by some really good individual matches; the team of DJ Mentiply, Ben Perkin, Maxim Plumridge, Matt Manley and Harry Holmes will only get better as they progress through the school and their tennis continues to develop. Can I stress to all the players that a good serve is paramount and this is an area you can work on yourself, no expensive coaches are necessary.

Like fitness training, it is just down to hard work and repetition.

The season started well with an excellent 8/4 win at home against Sir William Borlase School. Another excellent 8-4 victory away against RGS followed. This again set up the match against Dr Challoner’s School as a Buckinghamshire decider, with Challoner’s again just edging it on the day. DJ Mentiply beat S Poulter 6-3 and B Perkin beat J Mellows 6-3 so AGS won at both No. 1 and No. 2 singles; however M Plumridge and M Manley lost at No. 3 and No. 4 and it

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

*** Shock News Flash*** After I completed this report, Dr Challoner’s lost to Sir William Borlase School 7-6… As a result, AGS have made The Regional Play-offs in September!

I would like to thank all the tennis players who have represented AGS with distinction this season and I for one look forward to next year! We lose a really talented player in Oscar Glenister (Ph13) and I wish him well for the future, both for his time at university and in terms of his tennis.

Other players will now step up and meet the challenge. Daniel, James and Joel will be a year older, and undoubtedly a year better and we certainly have good youngsters who deserve their chance. Who would bet against AGS making The National Finals yet again?

Mr P Dean

Athletics

in the 1500m and Ioannis Korontzis 1st in the 200m. Ben Mulholland and

Squash

Ben Latham performed well in the

Track and Field Cup 2017 Junior Squad (Yr7 & Yr8) Round 1 – Buckinghamshire Results. AGS finished 1st of 8 teams

Hurdles as well as the Shotput. The team performance was good enough to qualify for the Regional Rounds in Birmingham.

Squash is still as popular as ever with courts in full use every lunchtime throughout the year and generally it has been a busy year for both student and OA teams, and for many of our talented individual players.

compete in two events (one field

Regional Round of the English Schools’ Track and field cup - Inters. AGS improved from the

and one track) so it means that all

first round with a score of 383pts,

The 1st team is now predominantly

competitors need to be good in

this placed us 3rd in the competition

made up of younger players and

a range of events. There were a

but sadly not enough to go through

they had a mixed start to the season.

number of standout performances,

to the next round. Some standout

They had a bright start with a friendly

for example the sprinters won their

performances were Max Perry, who

win over Eton College and followed

events (100m, 200m, 300m and

ran 4m15secs, Denzel and Ioannis,

this up with 5/0 win over Abingdon

Relay). Timi Ashaolu and Matt

who both ran 12.2secs in the 100m,

in National Schools. They then had

Sparke won the Shotput and Discus

Luke Parry, who ran 41.46secs in the

two narrow defeats to Harrow and

respectively.

300m, and Kit Fairhurst, who ran the

John Hampden but bounced back

200m in 25secs.

with wins against Dr Challoner’s and

with a score of 295. This is a team competition and all athletes must

Round 2 – Regional Final Midlands B – The Next round

District Athletics. District athletics

was in Birmingham in the Midlands

brought together the best athletes

B Final - win and we would be

from House Athletics 2017 to

through to National Finals. The field

compete against schools in Aylesbury

was very tough and the standard

Vale District. Consistency across

was high. The team responded well

the four year groups guided AGS to

to the challenge and many of the

Overall Boys’ winners for the second

athletes stepped up and bettered

year running. Year 7 and 8 came

their performance from the previous

4th whilst Year 9 placed 2nd and

round. Although our total points

Year 10 came 1st. It was a great

In the second half of the season in

increased, it placed us 4th overall.

effort by all competitors despite the

the New Year the 1st team started

Well done to the squad for all their

very soggy conditions.

with a narrow 3/2 loss to Harrow.

hard work and commitment.

Inter Squad (Yr9 & Yr10) Track and Field Cup Round 1 – Buckinghamshire results. AGS placed 4th overall but with a decent score of 365 points. There were lots of standout results including Max Perry and Ben Lindars 1st and 2nd

Mr N Gibbs

Radley College. A notable success for such a young team is that they progressed through to the latter stages of National Schools’. Special mention for Marcus Connor who remained unbeaten up to the New Year and is now ranked 28 nationally in Under 17’s and continues to climb the rankings.

However, they positively followed up with a 5/0 defeat of RGS Wycombe.

The team then had to concentrate on KO rounds of the National Schools’ competition and were successful in progressing through to the finals by defeating St Pauls (London) & Beauchamp College (Leicester). After a friendly/warm up match against

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

51

SPORT Eton which they won 4/1, the team travelled to Sport City Manchester on 22nd March. The boys finished 4th overall nationally which is an excellent achievement for such a young team. Special mention to Captain Marcus Connor, Lewis Milner (now ranked 57 in Under 17’s) and Danial Choudhury (ranked 44 in Under 17’s) who are all rapidly climbing up the national rankings and have potential to go further. I would also like to formally thank the parents who have supported the team around

on Exeter in National Schools KO

exhibition match and became an

and had an impressive 4/1 win. The

instant hit with all students. He

draw then gave us tough opponents

gave away autographed books,

Mrs Connor.

in Wycliffe, one of the favourites of

had numerous photos and signed

the competition. Unfortunately the

everything put in front of him like a

The 1st team are also champions

boys just missed out on a trip to

true professional.

of the Bucks Division 1 Junior

the finals in Manchester, losing 4/1.

County league after only one defeat

This should not diminish what was

all season. The boys play these

a fantastic achievement by a young

matches on a Sunday afternoon

and developing squad to reach the

which shows excellent commitment.

knock out stages.

The squad consists of Marcus

The squad consists of Danial

Alex Preston, Phil Yerby, Darren

Connor, Danial Choudhury, Josh

Choudhury, Lewis Milner, Ryan

Withey, current student Marcus

Mayhead, Lewis Milner, Harshi

Connor, Callum Egan, Dylan

Connor and Jamie Quinn.

Gupta, Oscar Glenister, Alex Axford

Holmes-Cowan, Josh Farnfield and

and Ryan Connor.

Kavi Morjaria.

The U15 team began their season

AGS are proud to have two county

summer which is a perfect end to a

with a friendly win over Eton. They

champions - Marcus Connor and

very successful season. They have

also progressed through to National

Dan Choudhury who are county

fixtures in Singapore, on the Gold

Schools knockout round with a

champions at U17 and U15

Coast near Brisbane and in Sydney.

convincing win over John Colet

respectively. Both have also been

and only a tough 3/2 loss v. John

chosen for the Aspire Training

Thanks to OA Alex Preston (British

Hampden cost them top spot in their

sessions for the southern region and

group. Choudhury and Milner make

part of South region team.

the country providing transport for the team members, in particular Mrs Milner, Mrs Choudhury and

this a very strong team as they are also regular 1st team players.

team who play in Bucks League Division 1 who were successful in winning the championship for the 3rd successive season. Players included

The school team also embark on an exciting tour to Australia in the

Open O35 Champion) and his company Intrepid for sponsoring both boys and OA teams and Phil Yerby

We also had a special visitor,

and his company PInPoint Solutions

welcoming World No 2 Nick Mathew

for sponsoring Bucks Senior team.

The U15 team began January with

to AGS courts and taking coaching

a 5/0 friendly win over Windsor and

sessions involving players of all

4/1 win over Eton. They then took

standards. Nick also played an

52

More success came with OA adult

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

Mr D Withey

Swimming Year 7 Two Year 7 students were selected for the Junior swimming team which entered the National team swimming championships. Carmelo Almadin and Sam Pyefinch represented AGS at the regional swimming gala in Watford and helped the Junior team to qualify 26th fastest in the country in the medley relay. The team initially

at the Olympic Aquatic centre in

relay later on the in the meet. In the

London. Qualification for the finals

heats the lads swam brilliantly and

is a great achievement and we will

qualified fastest for the final ensuring

be looking for even more success as

they had a middle lane between the

they move into the Inter age group

two power house schools of Millfield

next year. In spite of difficult finals,

and Plymouth College. The freestyle

the guys did really well and in both

final was the last race of the day and

heats swam faster than they swam

the tension was palpable. The lads

regionally. A good year and I wish

had a great chance of a rare podium

you all the best for the next season.

and all they had to do is execute,

team to qualify for the final but the

Ish Rahim, Tom Selby, James

fortunately each member of the team

guys did really well and in both heats

Chennells, and Cam Brooker

including Ish swam their perfect race

swam faster than they swam in the

represented AGS for the second

and Tom Selby brought the team

regionals. Well done and good luck

year running and this time the Inter

home in an amazing 3rd place. This

next year.

team were looking to go better than

is a truly fantastic performance and

4th place in the last year’s national

something which all the guys should

finals. The team qualified 1st and

be very proud of.

didn’t qualify in the Freestyle relay but after a number of teams dropped out they were entered into both relays at the national finals at the Olympic Aquatic centre in London.

Qualification for the finals is a great achievement especially as they will be swimming in the same age group next year. The finals were tough and there was little expectation on the

Year 8, 9 & 10 Gabe Gulridge and Jack Edwards

2nd fastest out of the regionals

represented AGS in the Junior team

in the medley and freestyle relay

in the National Team Swimming

respectively. This meant that overall

championships. At the regional

the Inter team qualified 4th fastest in

swimming gala in Watford they

the country heading to London. At the

helped the Junior team to Qualify

finals expectations were high and the

26th fastest in the country in the

team seemed confident. The morning

medley relay. The team initially

session heralded a 7th place finish in

didn’t qualify in the Freestyle relay

the medley relay, perhaps a slightly

but again after a number of teams

disappointing result given their

dropped out they too were entered

qualification time, but they knew the

into both relays in the national finals

best was yet to come in the freestyle

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

53

SPORT

Year 12 & 13 Tom Faulkner, Sunkyu Han, and Michael and David Witham represented AGS in the senior swimming team at the National Team Swimming championships.

At the regional swimming gala in Watford, competition was tough and the team qualified 6th and 7th fastest in the freestyle and medley relay respectfully, and thus ensuring progression to the national finals at the London Aquatic Centre for the second year running. Qualification for the finals is a great achievement in itself, however with a ranking of around 20th, it was always going to be tough to make either of the

54

finals, and this proved to be the

both represented AGS for the first

case. Nevertheless there were

time and swam well. I hope that we

some outstanding performances

will see more of Tom next year. Well

with Michael Witham achieving

done lads.

an incredible 25.7 seconds for the 50 freestyle which will put him in good stead for gaining a national qualification time next year. David Witham lead the team well and helped organise and encourage the younger teams. Tom and Sunkyu

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

Mr N Gibbs

SCHOOL LIFE Music

schools. The AGS Jazz Band did

music, dancing, singing, and drinks

another excellent job at the Malawi

later and all became quiet once more

Party in the last week of the summer

in the halls and corridors of AGS as

The Music department at AGS never sleeps. Whatever time of

term, saying goodbye and thank

everyone made their way home in

you to our friends from Malawi who

the early hours of Saturday morning.

year it is, there is always another

had spent two weeks with us. Other

Huge congratulations and thanks to

event for students to be working

events such as the PTA Ball and a

all musicians, teachers, and prefects

towards, whether it’s a huge event

private 60th birthday function have

who made it such an incredible night

like Cabaret Night or a small soloists’

helped expand the positive reputation

once again.

evening. Throughout the year,

of the Jazz Band and the wider

students from all years have stepped

music department.

up to the mark and performed to

The other primary musical highlight every year is House Music: without

One event that always outshines all

a doubt one of the most competitive

others in the AGS musical calendar

house events on the school calendar.

is Cabaret Night. Every year on the

There was not a free practice room

first May Bank Holiday weekend,

in sight from November 2016 all the

The variety of events we have

students, parents, and teachers

way through to February 2017 as the

performed at this year has once

alike gather to enjoy the incredible

houses prepared for the big day. It

again been commendable,

display that Aylesburians of all

was an honour this year to have Old

performing at venues such as the

ages and standards have to offer.

Aylesburian Jules Buckley as our

AGS Hall, Pitstone Green, St Mary’s

Kicking off at 7 o’clock with some

adjudicator, a very well-respected

Church, Tyringham Hall, and the

quiet background music and a few

musician, composer, arranger, and

Waterside Theatre. One event it was

drinks, the evening built through

conductor. Some students were

a particular pleasure to perform at

student-led bands to Junior Jazz

lucky enough to talk musical careers

again was the Stocklake Park School

Band, reaching a huge climax of the

with him face-to-face, an incredible

Christmas Party, helping to establish

evening in the form of the Jazz and

opportunity to get professional advice

a great connection between our two

Funktion Bands. Two hours of great

on the industry. The competition

an extremely high level, with styles ranging from choral music to big band jazz to psychedelic rock.

was incredibly tight, as always, but ultimately Paterson House came out on top, with Joe Kearney and Ayush Rodriguez heading up the side. From Blues Brothers to Madness to One Direction, House Music 2017 was certainly a night to remember.

Many thanks to all the music staff, particularly to Mr Nathan and Mr Dallas, for all the time and effort they put into producing the great standard of music here at AGS. Tom Roberston – Hampden 12

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

55

SCHOOL LIFE Chess Club

three games in a match that involved eight schools. In an excellent and

Origami Club

often nail biting competition we were

The AGS chess club is open to all AGS students of any playing ability and students from AHS are equally welcome. It has

triumphant and qualified for the

team of Simon, Matt, Richard, Elliot

Throughout the course of the 2016-2017 school year paper origami club has run for Year 7s as a new club. It has been

been another year of success for

Josh and Callum fought hard in all

a very successful year seeing the

the AGS chess club with numbers

their games but succumbed 6-0 to

creation of many different models

remaining buoyant with typically 30

a very strong Reading School team.

from miniature chickens to a full

to 50 players turning up to enjoy an

The result was understandable as

sized swan. We have had a steady

hour of chess on a Friday lunchtime.

Reading were last year’s national

number of students attending on

As always we have been massively

champions but nevertheless it was

Tuesday lunchtimes to enhance their

supported by the more senior players

an excellent experience for the whole

inner Origami skills. As mentioned

including Matt, Simon, Richard

team. The Spring term provided

previously in the Spring Term a

and Callum and I was pleased to

competitive fun with our inter school

team of students put together a full

recommend School Honours to all

Chess Challenge and Oscar did well

sized swan which was taken to be

our top players who did not already

to qualify for the mega final in High

congratulated by the Headmaster.

have them this year.

Wycombe. I would like to end by

Next year, we are hoping to grab

knockout which we hosted against Reading school on 27th January. Our

thanking Simon Chappell for all his

more of the new Year 7s to join and

Our rooming move to Hi3, with

support and effort over the years and

current attenders to hold higher roles

overspill into Hi2, has massively

wish him all the best as he takes on

in helping the new students. I am

improved the club giving us more

new challenges at university.

overall very pleased with the boys

space than ever before. It is good to see large numbers of players of all

Mr M Goodchild

and their effort leading to outstanding results and look forward to see

abilities enjoying games each Friday.

what is to come in future years of

The display of live international

Origami club.

matches from the Chess24 website has also enhanced the experience

Sanjay Jaikumar – Denson 10

for all. Over the year, I have been pleased to sign off a number of students’ Duke of Edinburgh Award

This year in origami club I have

skills sections and hope this will

developed my origami skills, learnt

continue.

how to teach others and overall enjoyed it immensely. We have made

Once more, we were able to enter

various group projects, including

our team into the National Schools’

chicks and a giant swan. I think

Chess Championship. On 16th

that Origami club has been a great

November we took part in the

success and that future year sevens

qualifying congress at Haberdashers’

will enjoy it as well.

Aske’s School for Boys in Elstree where the team enjoyed excellent hospitality and the opportunity to play

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The Aylesburian 2016/2017

Morgan Billings – Ridley 7

This year at origami club, Sanjay

In Origami club I have learnt many

to any Year 7s or newcomers who

enabled us to improve and enhance

things. One point I learnt is to fold

decide to join this great club. This is

our origami skills. We learnt an

paper in a specific way, having to be

a great experience and I urge all to

immense amount, but the club was

precise so each individual part slots

join this laid back and enjoyable club.

still fun. We have made individual

together perfectly. My second point

projects and group projects at

which I learnt was a way at which

origami club. Individually, we made

I need to slot the paper together to

chicks with pieces of yellow paper,

make it flow and to give our work

which were great despite being small.

shape and individuality. I was part

As a group, we made a giant swan,

of the penguin project. We all made

which we gave to the headmaster.

pieces to contribute to our big ideal.

This year origami club was a great

I started folding yellow pieces of

success and we learnt many skills

paper and Morgan blue pieces of

that we can always use when given

paper and so on.

paper! In the future, I would be happy to help with origami club for the new Year 7s. Thanks to Sanjay, we were able to learn a lot from origami club whilst also having fun. I would most definitely recommend origami club to other people 2017.

Aadhav Sakthivel – Ridley 7

Joseph Galliers - Ridley 7

If you have noticed, I have used the word ‘our’ a lot. In this club, everybody is a contributing factor and nobody works alone. In the future, I hope we will be able to create more ambitious projects as our experience increases with every lesson. We will be able to pass this knowledge on

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

57

SCHOOL LIFE Art Masks Project MASKS stands for ‘Make a Special Kid Smile’ and is a local charity supported by Booker Park Primary School in Aylesbury. The charity organised an art exhibition whereby schools were invited to produce a piece of art within a frame that could ‘Make a Special Kid Smile’. The resulting pieces were then displayed in the Gateway Centre, Aylesbury in order to raise awareness of Children with Special needs and disabilities who attend mainstream and special schools in the Aylesbury region.

With a little bit of help from Mr Dallas we assembled a team of six Year 7 and 8 students to create the artwork over a period of six weeks, working during lunchtime slots. The students were myself, Harry Wyatt, Thomas Roberts, Ashwin Aggarwal, Torsten Hansen, Freddie Kelly-Greaves and

Tom Lloyd. We separated our frame into 6 sections all drawn towards a mirror in the centre.

Every section had a theme, and these themes were: Sports, Space, Animals, Emojis, Random Art and the sixth section contained the name of the project, MASKS. To view the piece correctly you simply line your face up with the mirror and smile.

Our piece was well received at the exhibition and we were proud to take part in an event supporting such a worthwhile charity.

The piece has now been displayed along the main corridor here at school so do please have a look if and when you are passing.

Thomas Roberts – Phillips 7

Geology I believe my interest for Geology originated when I was five. I was exploring in a pool of rocks on my holiday to Canada and the first few rocks that I ever found interesting were always pink, and had speckles of black and white.

I remember 3 years later, going to Pakistan and seeing those massive valleys and thinking how beautiful they were. I decided to take GCSE Geology due to those memories in the hope that I could find out more about them. Now that I have finished my first year of the course, I am knowledgeable enough to determine that those pink rocks were actually pieces of granite, and that those black and white speckles were a mixture of mica, feldspar and quartz.

I have also learned that those valleys may have been formed starting millions upon millions of years ago from fluvio-glacial processes. If you don’t know what any of that meant, don’t worry - at one point, that’s exactly how I felt too. Though, I am not the most skilled geologist, I always enjoy the study of the earth and my interest for rocks still remains.

Shoheb Hassan – Phillips 10

The Geology course is a fantastic fusion of Science and Geography and would appeal to any who are interested in understanding the workings of the Earth that isn’t covered by Geography. In the course we cover a wide variety of topics

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The Aylesburian 2016/2017

that cater to all interests and give an interesting opportunity to learn

AGS MedSoc

all managed to gain a true insight into the careers ahead of us. Whether you have always wanted a career in

new skills and theories. There are

Medicine, or are just considering it

traditionally structured lessons. Some

Throughout this academic year, the Medical Society has experienced huge successes;

of my favourite topics so far include,

providing students with opportunities

Volcanoes and Igneous rocks, as

Aside from all this though, the

that best prepare them for the

well as Minerals and Fossils, and

Medical Society has become much

challenges they will face in future

with Year 11 still to come I expect

more than just informative sessions,

months and years. For students to

with many of the students running

that list will be getting far longer.

have a place where they can receive

sessions of their own, and the

One of the highlights of this year

specific advice on how to apply

appointment of a Student Leader

in Geology was the opportunity

for medical, dental, and veterinary

and Deputy Leader of the society.

to take part in the extracurricular

courses will undoubtedly have a

The demand from the younger years

BGS Geology challenge, in which

lasting affect on all those who attend

became so great that a separate

we achieved a fantastic 3rd place

the society every Tuesday lunchtime.

society was formed in response; the

plenty of practical lessons with chemicals to accompany the more

nationally, a brilliant performance and an excellent opportunity to show off our geological knowledge. I would

as an option, the Medical Society will help you really decide if it’s for you.

Junior MedSoc, run by the MedSoc

With the hour being filled with a

leaders and Mrs Wilson.

range of areas, including personal statements, work experience, and the

The aim of MedSoc was always to

qualities of a successful Doctor, we

prepare and to open the minds of

have all gained greater awareness

the students hoping for a career in

To accompany the exciting course,

of these careers. By far the most

Medical related subjects, and this

there are multiple visits that

captivating and interesting sessions

has been achieved ten-fold. I am now

complement the classroom work.

have been those taken by guest

even more excited by the challenges

The first visit was to the area around

speakers, all of which have been Old

of a career in Medicine and I hope

Buckingham, to look at depositional

Aylesburians. We have heard from

that the Medical Society has had that

environments and this includes a

first to fifth year medical students, a

same effect on everyone else, and

site with an excellent opportunity

Clinical Dental technician, a Vet, and

will continue to do so.

to hunt for fossils - that is once you

a Paediatric Consultant. With every

have braved the near vertical ascent

varied stage of the process covered

on the cliff side, which didn’t fail to

at some point in a session, we have

definitely recommend Geology as a GCSE.

Charlie Sellar - Paterson 12

produce laughs for the class. The second visit was to Bradgate Park to look at some of the oldest rocks in Britain, and some of the oldest fossils. This day, like the first was another excellent day out, with plenty of opportunities to apply the ideas learnt in the classroom, in wonderful weather!

Tom Ward – Denson 10

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

59

SCHOOL LIFE Maths Challenge

Senior Maths Challenge Best in School

The Maths Department entered 310 students for Maths Challenges this year. Altogether, they achieved 112 Gold certificates, 87 Silver and 81 Bronze, a fantastic achievement all round. The top scoring boys from each of the Senior, Intermediate and Junior challenges are put through to the next round The Olympiad Round.

Junior Challenge Best in School Nathan Curry (Pa 8) Best in Year John Davie (Ph 7)

Michael Ng (R13) Best in Year George Wyatt (R12), Fred Phillips (D11) 25 students from Year 11, 12 and 13 got through to the Olympiad rounds.

Michael Ng was also chosen to take part in the UKMT Winter training Camp which took place in Hungary during the Christmas holidays and the Trinity Camp which took place at Cambridge University during the Easter holidays. Michael thoroughly enjoyed both experiences and is looking forward to continuing his

Junior Olympiad follow-on round: Oliver Gunton (Ph8), Aarav Tribhuvan (R8), David Wusu (Ph7), and Ayaan Mather (L7)

maths journey at University next year.

Intermediate Maths Challenge

questions are hard enough, but

Best in School Richard Chappell (D11), Fred Phillips (D11)

The achievement of all these students is really not to be underestimated - the first round the following rounds are very tricky and require superb mathematical knowledge, as well as welldeveloped thinking and logic skills.

Thank you to Mr Datta who hosted

Best in Year Fitz Steger-Lewis (D10), Karan Elangovan (L9)

pre-challenge preparation sessions

Intermediate Olympiad follow-on round Richard Chappell (Distinction), Fred Phillips (Merit), Michael Roach (Merit), Fitz Steger-Lewis (Merit), Karan Elangovan (Merit), Aidan Manley (Merit), Jeffrey Tan (Distinction)

competed.

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Maths STMC National Final 2017

for those who took part in all rounds of the challenge. Well done to all who

Mrs J M Smith

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

On Tuesday 7 February, having won the Buckinghamshire heat in November, four students travelled to the magnificent Royal Horticultural Halls in London to proudly represent Aylesbury Grammar School once more in the Senior Team Maths Challenge, this time in the second and last round the National Final 2017. The team of four comprised Daniel Barlow (Pa13), Richard Chappell (D11), Fred Phillips (D11) and myself.

Travelling via various modes of transport, we arrived at the venue promptly in the morning at 10.00am.

The hall was immense, complete with an ornate glass ceiling, setting the stage for the important annual event that was about to commence. There were some familiar faces, including a former member of my form. With a total of 88 schools participating from all across the UK, all of whom had won heats in their respective regions, we knew that the competition would be fierce. The doors closed and one of the organisers began to speak.

The National Final of 2017 had commenced.

The first round was the Poster Round, in which each team had to create an A1 poster displaying the wonderful properties of ‘Cellular Automata’ (a rich topic involving updating a grid of cells based on a rule). Having done a substantial

amount of organisation and

scored full marks in about half of

In the main competition, we

preparation beforehand (with the

the time. Refreshments were then

achieved a superb result of seventh

classic last day rush!), we began

provided for the lunch break, and as

place in the UK. We each won a

to formulate and stick our poster

the suspense increased, we moved

dodecahedron shaped Rubik’s

together. However presentation and

onto the two final rounds - the Shuttle

‘Cube’ and also took home other

mathematical content were not all

and Relay. Ploughing through, we

memorabilia in a goodie bag. I

that was required. Indeed, there were

solved over thirty problems under

would like to thank my fellow team

extreme time pressure and after

members for making my final Team

this the competition was finally

Maths Challenge such a wonderful

completed.

and memorable experience, and I

also three maths problems for us to solve, incorporating their proofs into our work as well. The process was thankfully very smooth for us with all three problems answered and after

The results were announced. The

forty minutes, we had finished our

Poster Round was a separate

artistic ‘masterpiece’.

competition, and we were delighted

The Group Round followed, and we

to achieve second place in the

did well, answering nine out of the

country, but the organiser said that

ten questions correctly. The third

it was extremely close (a committee

round was the Cross-number round.

draw) between first and second

Having memorised all the three

place, so in a way we were a little

digit palindromic triangle numbers

unlucky. (Reminds me of a certain

beforehand, we were delighted to

house…ahem…Ridley… in House

see one appear as a clue, and we

Music this year!)

hope that AGS will continue to have success in the competition. And most of all, we are all extremely grateful to Mrs Smith for her fantastic preparation sessions and continued support throughout the year; once again thank you also to the AGS Mathematics Department for providing such a wonderful opportunity.

Michael Ng – Ridley 13

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61

SCHOOL LIFE Maths - Year 10 Maths Feast

poster was given, explaining a table of squares. We then had to answer two pages of questions relating to the poster. The questions also extended into square rooting, and squaring numbers in the hundreds (the table only went to 9.99) We were given 6 problems that we had to solve, these had to include a small paragraph explaining how we got to our answer.

The answer itself only counted for 1 out 5 marks. However, we only needed to answer 4 of them. The problems were real life situations.

Young Enterprise Report

In the True or False section we were given eight questions, each with four answers. Each question covered a different aspect of Mathematics. In the Countdown round we were given six numbers and were told to make a larger number using the operations +, -, ÷ and x. There were a total of four of these. If we got the exact number we received 3 points, within three was 2 and within 6 was 1. We got two correct, one within three, and didn’t manage to write one answer.

We won this round!

This is when we had to split into two pairs. Each pair got 10 questions.

Lacuna – Company Review

For the Comprehension round a

Aidan Purchase – Paterson 10

On February 23 the AGS Year 10 Maths Team (Fitz StegerLewis, Aman Sadiq, Anish Kumar and Aidan Purchase) took part in the Maths Feast at John Hampden Grammar School. The Feast consisted of five rounds – True or False, Countdown, Comprehension, Problems and Four in a Row.

62

Each pair wrote their answer on a large table, the answer from the other pair’s previous answer was needed for your answer. This meant one mistake could be fatal. There were a total of 24 marks, as a run of four correct gave you an extra point.

It was a great event, I would like to attend similar events in the future.

The new mathematical concepts and short time restrictions meant that the event was very exhilarating.

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

We have had an incredibly successful year for Young Enterprise, with three companies successfully completing the programme.

For the second year in a row, we have reached the South Central Regional Final of the competition.

Miss K Chalk

Managing Director Charlie Dunne (Denson 12) Team members: Ollie Scorey, Zac Vaughan, Toby Simon, Brad Irving, Cameron Teague, Oliver Shearer, Matthew Chew The first product we were going to sell was SnapStraps – a device that attaches to a mobile phone to offer extra security. The idea behind our SnapStraps came from the fact that as a team we realised there was a problem in people our age regarding clumsiness with their phones, which end up costing extortionate prices for a replacement or excess as part of an insurance policy. We realised that our SnapStraps supplied an extra layer of protection which helps ensure that your phone is safely attached to your hand when in use, therefore protecting it from falling and theft. Our product came in numerous colours including red, blue, black, white, gold, silver, pink and rose gold.

After moving on from SnapStraps, we went back to the drawing board and as a team tried to come up with a product that required hard

work on our part but would benefit us in the long run. It was with these criteria that we set ourselves the task of writing an essential Uni guide.

This guide is designed for year 12 and 13 students who are planning on going to university. It designed to answer any potential questions you could have about going to Uni, from cooking to applying abroad.

The book also contains sections on physical fitness, mental health, personal safety, open day checklists, application process, useful tips and information and city profiles.

Overall, I feel that this process has been a great learning experience for everyone involved. For some members, they have realised that operating within a business requires much more work than they first thought whereas for others it has only enhanced the passion within them to work in the business world in the future. I personally have found this journey challenging, yet inconceivably rewarding. It seemed like there was another challenge to tackle every week, and as so many of our initial members dropped out, at times, the work seemed overbearing – but with the help of my team, we have managed to overcome these challenges and build a brand and product that we are proud to call our own. All of us here at Lacuna would like to thank Young Enterprise for providing us with this fantastic opportunity; we have all come a long way in the past year and it has been an amazing journey. We would especially like to thank Andy May, Michael Sayce (Ridley 13) and Christian Peploe-Williams (Ridley 13) for the time and support they have

given us in their role of Business

essays or undergoing the burden of tests. We aim to eliminate this by educating future generations on the importance of ergonomics through our Ergo – Grip, brand identity and social media use.

Advisors.

Awards Aylesbury Vale Final Runner Up Best Presentation

Finesse – Company Review

From the start of this year, Finesse has had several setbacks such as organisational issues, which hindered our performance. However, through perseverance and coordination as a team and not as a group of individuals, we have managed to turn the tables in our favour.

Managing Director Adi Roy (Hampden 12) Team members: Tomas Barbosa, Oliver Howard, Daniel Hawkes, Robert Hawkins, Jack Draper, Christian Walker, Rex Germanier, Leo Blackman, Tom Maloney, Max Rees, Tom Bull, Louis Foster Our product was the Ergo – Grip, a comfortable, custom moulded ergonomic grip for pens or pencils.

Each Ergo – Grip is sold as a kit with instructions on how to fit the

grip to the user’s needs. The kit also includes a free pen alongside the Siligum, which is the material that the grip is made of. It is a simple and easy process, making it customer friendly and allowing them to have a permanent, personalised pen grip to use.

At Finesse, we strive to put emphasis on the term ergonomics: ‘The study of people’s efficiency in their working environment’. Especially in schools, ergonomics is not stressed upon and instead, students end up with finger cramp and fatigue when writing

Throughout our 6 months of trading, we overcame every negative aspect that we came across as a company.

From the mistakes that we made, we learned and perfected our strategy for the next market; allowing us to grow stronger as a team and work together collectively. All 14 members of our company have flourished in their specific field, but it was not until we worked as a singular entity that we achieved to our fullest. Since the formation of our company, we have undergone activities which we would never have thought possible such as creating and presenting a quiz to an audience, selling hand crafted Christmas decorations to the public and designing, creating, marketing and selling our unique product; the Ergo-Grip. We would also like to thank Kerrie Brindle and Jake Hinton (Lee 13) for their excellent advice that has aided our performance as our company and their support.

Awards Aylesbury Vale Final Best Customer Service, Runner Up Best Company Report

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

63

SCHOOL LIFE Tyvo – Company Review Managing Director Tanmay Mahesh (Denson 12) Team members: Yosron Hassan, Kymir Ibragimov, Ryan Donaghue, Ayaan Ashraf, Will Liggett, Ameya Tekale, Chris Harty, Sam RayChaudhuri, Jeff Jacob, James Young, Dylan Bhopal, Rhitik Raja, Vithujan Sivapalen, Tom Wells, Lewis Ball, Adam Munir

Tyvo is the first seller of handmade Tyvek® wallets made in the UK. Tyvek® is a tear resistant, water resistant, stain resistant and recyclable material which is also as light as paper. This makes it ideal for making wallets as Tyvek® is strong and durable, like all wallets need to be, but also lightweight and easy to customise, allowing us to have a competitive advantage over the leather wallet. The fundamental objective of our product is to make carrying money more convenient for our customers, whether they are using the wallets on holiday or when going out on a run.

From the very beginning, we have designed, printed and folded our Tyvek® wallets ourselves, giving us the flexibility to adapt our product to suit the needs of our wide customer base in the most effective way possible. During the process, we have been committed to establishing

a clear and coherent brand image throughout social media, trade stands and on the product itself.

Customer satisfaction has always been at the forefront of all business decisions, even if it has meant hand delivering wallets to our customers.

The combination of these factors has allowed us to establish ourselves as a reliable organisation and this has been recognised by external investors who have expressed interest in purchasing share capital.

Successful trade fairs have been a testament to the popularity of our wallets amongst the general public, reinforced through our continued efforts in raising awareness through other mediums, including an education pack which has been developed in order to supplement the wallets and increase recognition of the importance of financial responsibility. Being in a position where we can make a positive return to our shareholders, all of whom are members of the company itself, reflects our success and this would not have been possible without our Centre Lead, Miss Chalk, or our business advisors, Rob Nichols and Sarah Saint-Ruth.

Awards Aylesbury Final Runner Up Best Trade Stand, Best Company Report, Best Business Plan, Best Presentation, Overall Best Company Winner.

Bucks and MK County Final Best Presentation, Runner Up Best Trade Stand, Overall Runner-Up. South Central Regional Final Best Presentation Award.

Warhammer Club & The National Finals

Warhammer is a hobby that involves building, painting and gaming with miniature models, set in the grim darkness of the far future. This year, we once again had a chance to compete in the Schools League, an annual tournament run by Games Workshop, the creators of Warhammer. To have a chance to travel to the semi-finals, and the finals in Nottingham, we first had to qualify in local heats.

In the Schools League, players face off in one on one matches against an opponent, contributing to their team’s point total. Four players make up a team, our first team being comprised of Dan Hardman, Joseph ‘Teckers’ Teckman, Ollie Sampson and team captain, Ross Buchanan. The local November heats at the Aylesbury Games Workshop store proved no problem for our veteran-filled first team, their experience clearly shown with only a single loss out of the twelve matches played. The second team, in their first attempt at competitive play, lost out in a hardfought result of 5 wins and 7 losses.

Hopefully the experience will lead to

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The Aylesburian 2016/2017

SCHOOL VISITS a better result in next year’s battle.

Having successfully beaten out the opposition, the first team was off to Nottingham. Arriving at the familiar Warhammer World building, the team were ready. Upon entering the Grand Hall, it was clear that the event had continued to grow in size from last year, with 20 teams in total competing on the day. Special mentions to Ollie Sampson for his superb modelling, earning the team additional points, and to Joseph Teckman who stuck it out against many tough opponents, even if that required some questionable tactical decisions. Placing second overall, the team firmly cemented itself a place in the finals.

Art - Year 10 & 12

ago, the team was ready to blow the competition out of the water.

The first round of matches looked promising, with all four players seizing victory decisively. Pride came before fall however, as our next opponents forced us into a win, a draw and two losses. With only one school left to face, the team really had to turn things around. A short intermission and a firm talk from the team captain seemed to do the trick, with the threat of walking home being liberally tossed around. The final round saw the team regaining their footing, walking away with three wins and one loss, placing 4th overall nationally, out of 160 schools. A solid result, but not quite at the top yet. be claimed by the Warhammer Team

refined, equipment packed, the

of Aylesbury Grammar School.

the exception of the team captain, whose late arrival was no surprise to the team, and quite consistent with his previous performances).

With Mr. Goodchild’s inspirational historic anecdotes of battles long

The AGS Art Department organised a trip to London to visit the Tate Modern Art Gallery on the 20th September 2016. Students travelled by train into London and walked a short

Next year the top spot will certainly

The day of the finals dawned. Lists team was ready to set off (with

visit the Tate Modern Gallery, London

distance to the gallery. Once inside the gallery students had the opportunity to tour the permanent

A special thanks to Mr. Goodchild,

displays of art work in the main

Mr. Walker and Mrs. Chalk for

gallery until midday, taking in

running the club, and to all the boys

some of Britain’s most diverse and

who attend.

contemporary works of Art. After

Ross Buchanan – Phillips 12

taking lunch the group then headed into the temporary exhibition of the American artist Georgia O’Keeffe, a retrospective of her art over the twentieth century. Georgia O’Keeffe is best known for her paintings of magnified flowers, animal skulls, and New Mexico desert landscapes. With no works by O’Keeffe in UK public galleries, this exhibition was a rare chance to see the largest collection of her remarkable paintings outside of America. The students were able to explore and respond to her work.

This proved not only a fantastic opportunity to view the exhibition, but also to tour works in the brand

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65

SCHOOL VISITS new extension, the Switch House.

Sir Michael Craig-Martin appeared

This educational visit proved very

alongside obscure and unknown

successful and was invaluable to

artists for whom this could well be

the development of the Year 10’s Art

one of their first exhibitions. Some

project based on the theme ‘Close

stand out pieces were the wind

Up’. Thank you to all the GCSE and

sculpture by Yinka Shonibare in

A level students who attended for

the main courtyard alongside a

their positive contribution on the day.

spectacular range of pieces in a

Mrs L Tangi

wonderful range of styles. After the RA we visited some other galleries around London. The Gagosian

Art - Year 12 visit the Royal Academy of Arts

contained a range of Picasso’s work which was quite inspiring to see. The National Gallery and The National Portrait Gallery contained an eclectic range of classic and modern works

The day started with an early morning train trip to London, with the entirety of our three-strong class of myself, Oli Howard and Alroy Pereira. We then had a short journey on the underground to reach the Royal Academy. We were visiting to see the infamous annual Summer Exhibition, which showcases the best pieces of contemporary art work from the past year. Famed artists such as Tracey Emin and

as ever – including the impressive tapestry by Chris Ofili which took a team of weavers over two years to complete. In all, the trip was very successful as we have been inspired by a range of artworks to complete our own personal investigations over the next year, and we would like to thank Mrs Tangi, Mrs Pearson and Mrs Saunderson for organising and

Biology - Year 12 visit Warwick University The Warwick visit was a very eye opening experience into the world of Biology beyond A levels. Tim Underwood’s talk about cancer research was particularly interesting as it included recent and relevant discoveries. We saw a video of surgery to remove the top third of the stomach and bottom two thirds of the oesophagus, therefore removing the tumour in the process, the remains of the oesophagus and stomach were then reconnected. Scientist and TV presenter Greg Foot gave insight into the lengths that scientists go to in an attempt to save lives. The fact that scientists travelled up Mount Everest to simulate hypoxia (seen

supervising the trip.

in ICU patients) shows the ingenuity

Finn Walsh – Denson 12

successful scientist.

and dedication required to become a

Sam Bhaskaran – Lee 12 Matt Griffin – Hampden 12 Sam Knights – Hampden 12 Nameer Rahman – Ridley 12

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Biology - Year 12

complete one of the twelve required practical skills. It is one thing to read

visit Coombe Hill

about conservation and biodiversity

The sky was bleak and the winds raged, but the weather would not come between the keen biologists and their task.

We spent the day conducting studies of plant biodiversity on Coombe Hill, a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

On the way up we observed the effects of coppicing – cutting back trees to stimulate the growth of new stems – and the change in flora at different heights.

Our first activity was measuring the percentage cover of different species at the summit using quadrats. We repeated this twice – once more on the hillside (very steep!) and again using line transects to see how footpaths affect species richness.

Lunch offered a welcome break from the elements before moving on.

Our final activity was to investigate variation in holly leaves, calculating the spine density for leaves at different heights and designing our own methods for selecting the leaves. Then it was back down for a well deserved kitkat or three!

We’d like to thank the Biology Department because the field trip was hugely important, enabling us to

in the textbook, but quite another to actually observe and experience it yourself!

Alex Axford - Lee 12

Geography visit to Sicily After an early start at school, we landed in sunny Catania on the east coast of Sicily ready to explore. Catania has a prolific seismic history having been destroyed in 1169 by a catastrophic earthquake and sitting in the shadow of the tallest active volcano in Europe. Mount Etna, visible from the plane whilst coming to land, was one of the attractions that we had come to see in this beautiful part of the world. We stepped off the plane and headed straight for Mount Etna. Our first leg of the ascent consisted of a long cable car journey in which we all added substantial layers of clothing anticipating the drastic change of temperatures despite the warm climate lying below.

Upon departing from the safety of the cable car and the warm café, the wind, drizzle and minimal visibility led to us slowly ascending the winding path towards the summit. After half an hour of slow walking and stopping to admire the view during brief breaks in the clouds, we turned back towards the safety of the warm café and descended from the volcano. We then headed for our hotel for the night, a much-needed rest for everyone.

Day two started nice and early with

a coach journey to Millazzo port, where we departed for the Aeolian Islands. These islands are part of a 140-kilometre island arc stretching from Millazzo to Stromboli. It is formed because of the tectonic activity between the African plate and the European plate. After departing for Vulcano, on the hydrofoil, we arrived to the somewhat unpleasant smell of rotten eggs. This was due to the large amount of sulphur being produced by the volcano lying on the small 21km square island. We swiftly began our 500m ascent heading for the Gran Cratere and after just over an hour of walking we reached the summit and were greeted by amazing views of the island and surrounding islands. We proceeded to eat our lunch at the top of the volcano before a swift descent back towards the town. With a group of boys tired from the walk, the famous Fanghi di Vulcano mud baths were a welcome sight. We headed straight for the hot mud and made the most of its therapeutic qualities. After this, we boarded another hydrofoil bound for Stromboli, not before a quick stop at Lipari for supplies and an ice cream. After arriving in Stromboli, the day was not over. We visited our hotel, ate some dinner and then headed for our first glimpse of the world-renowned volcano, Stromboli. Due to tired legs and the lack of a professional guide, we made our own way up to the viewing area

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SCHOOL VISITS on the north side of the volcano where we had an awe inspiring view of the frequent eruptions over 500 metres above us.

For day three we visited Stromboli, which is a 926m volcano with three small settlements, San Vincenzo and San Bartolo on the northwest and Ginostra on the southeast. We were staying in the northeast and spent the day exploring as well as playing a must win Beach volleyball game on the black sands of Stromboli’s beaches. The game resulted in a win for Mr Corby’s team, a somewhat questionable victory with the fact that Mr Corby was also the unbiased referee. By the evening, the group was ready to ascend the Volcano, to see the view that we had come so far to see. We were lucky enough to be able to ascend all the way to the top of the 926m summit. It was here that we were able to watch the Volcano throw molten rocks and lava high into the air accompanied by the loud and aggressive rumble of the ground beneath us. Once settled in at the top of Stromboli we witnessed a beautiful sunset, and the once in a lifetime opportunity of being next to an erupting volcano. We also learned how privileged we were when Mr Corby and our guide said that it was some of the best views and weather they had witnessed in a very long time. After a few hours and the onset of night, we proceeded to carefully

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descend the steep sided volcano. We headed back to the hotel for a relaxed evening with the group talking and playing cards for hours on end before a well-deserved night’s sleep.

We were lucky enough to meet scientists from the Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV) who had a station on the northern side of the island. They were kind enough to speak with us and explain the complexities of monitoring a volcano which nearly five hundred people called home. A variety of cameras, sensors and strain meters were set up across the island at no less that eighty different locations.

Global positioning and seismometers were used to measure even the minutest of changes or movements.

We accompanied this with some free time exploring the idyllic and beautiful old town with some of us visiting the church amongst other areas of the town. We then prepared ourselves for another night of volcano watching, we were so lucky to have weather similar to the night before where it was clear warm and perfectly safe allowing us to remain at the summit for hours, carefree of the world around us, admiring the volcano that was producing eruptions so frequently.

After descending the volcano, we prepared ourselves for the trip back to the mainland the next morning.

After departing from Stromboli, we travelled directly from Millazzo to the northern side of Etna this time; we travelled as far as we could on one of the 4x4 buses, which shaved hours off our ascent time. After stepping off the bus wrapped up in all of our layers, which previously were no defence against the battering winds, we were greeted by a chilly yet clear and sunny

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day at the top of Mount Etna. This allowed us to ascend in a t-shirt and take in an awe-inspiring view when we reached the top. We were also able to clearly see the pathways of the devastating lava flows that occur frequently during large eruptions of the volcano. After descending from Mount Etna, we visited the Gole Alcantara Parco, a river which had cut a beautiful path through steep sided cliffs. We also visited another local shopping town. We then headed back to the hotel we had stayed in on the first night and went out and enjoyed the local area before packing our bags ready for our departure the next day.

For our final morning, we spent the day enjoying Catania and its local culture; we were given the opportunity to explore and most of us headed for the surrounding shopping streets.

We then headed to the airport for the flight home. This trip was a once in a lifetime experience, something I think we would all agree on. To visit such a complex and dangerous part of the world requires intricate planning and months of work prior to the trip.

On behalf of the group I would like to thank Mr Corby and Mr Jones for putting their time and effort into ensuring we had an amazing visit.

Charlie Dunne – Denson 12

German - Year 10 Exchange to Stuttgart I’m sure I speak for everyone involved when I say that the German Exchange to Stuttgart was great fun as well as interesting if at times a bit scary! We did a lot of things in the 8 days we spent in Stuttgart from deep underground in a bear cave to high up in the air at Europapark theme park.

After an early start on Wednesday morning, it was straight into the action in the afternoon when we arrived at the schools in Stuttgart.

Having had a brief meeting with our exchange partners, we rushed off to the TV tower from the top of which we were able to see the whole of Stuttgart as well as a fair amount of the surrounding area. After some lessons in school with our partners on the Thursday morning, we were off to the bear caves which, despite being underground were in fact very colourful.

On Friday, I was forced to teach the German pupils that Thomas Mueller isn’t the best footballer in the world

and in the same lesson I also learnt that in Germany they believe that we British only drink warm beer! Over the weekend we were left to our own devices with our guest families.

However, we were never short of things to do thanks to our partners.

We went shopping in the amazing city centre, watched a film at the cinema, went to a trampoline park as well as going into the woods for a campfire. On Sunday night everyone went to bed exhausted from all of the weekend’s events but still very much looking forward to the visit to Europapark the next day.

It is probably fair to say that this was the highlight of the Exchange for many people, which is understandable. Even though I don’t enjoy high and fast rollercoasters I

As part of our Year 10 German studies, AGS and AHS jointly hosted students from two schools in Stuttgart for a week in July. It was great to repay the hospitality they had shown us earlier this year and to show them around the local area as well as visiting London, Oxford and Harry Potter world.

It was interesting to get an insight into their lives and compare our schools and general lives and it was a great opportunity to finally beat the Germans at football – even if it was only on FIFA. My confidence in speaking German rose and the oral exam at the end of the year was much easier to do.

like to thank Mr. Sloan and Miss

The trip helped me to gain confidence, not only in German, but in general. As the exchange is with the High School, you get the opportunity to meet new people and make new friendships; the school seem to have a knack for matching up partners with the right people and German friendship groups with English friendship groups. I would

Rowling for organising such a

definitely recommend the trip, as

great trip.

both sides of it are great.

Edwin Vass – Lee 10

Jack Burns – Hampden 10

still really enjoyed myself spending the day with such a large group.

Overall the German exchange was a brilliant experience and I highly recommend it to the younger years.

You improve your German whilst having fun (isn’t that our teachers’ definition of every lesson?). I would

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SCHOOL VISITS German - Year 8 visit to Cologne When the Boys of Denson, Hampden and Lee found out they were going to be given a chance to visit Cologne in Germany, some boys, quite literally jumped at the chance.

We were going to be going to a foreign country with our friends and all in the name of education!

Once we had signed up for the trip the itinerary offered a dinner in a traditional German restaurant, a tour of a local brewery and cathedral, a bowling night, a trip to the Lindt chocolate museum and a trip to the Phantasialand theme park. And, 13 year old boys, being who we are, only heard ‘chocolate’, ‘theme park’ and ‘bowling’. So that pretty much sold it for us. We then waited another 2 weeks for the leaving date, which passed agonisingly slowly We all were given the once-in-alifetime opportunity to wake up at 4:30 am and once again, 13 year old boys being who we are we had all decided to go to bed the previous night at

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around 11pm meaning that we were of course at the top of our game. A 40 minute bus journey to Heathrow and a 90 minute flight later and we were in Germany and checking in to the Youth Hostel. We were given our keys, timings and a reminder of the €60 fine for losing our key which instantly became our most treasured possession for the entire visit. Later that evening, we went for our first ‘Traditional German Meal’.

In the morning we were up and out at 7.30am to see the sights of Cologne, visiting the Cathedral and to have look at a brewery. The 265 steps up the Cathedral were a challenge in the blistering heat but we got to see St. Peter’s Bell which weighs in at an impressive 24 tons and is the largest free swinging bell in the world. Next was the brewery tour. Never mind not being old enough to drink any of the beer, we weren’t allowed to see any either as they do not brew on weekends but we got to see the interesting process and how it is made and bottled ready for our parents to enjoy.

Loud music, flashing lights and the first drink on the house…..it was time for some bowling! Always competitive

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we enjoyed ourselves and with an arcade next door too it was an excellent addition to the visit.

The next day we packed and left the Hostel and were on our way to Phantasialand where we had a full 6 hours to roam free and enjoy the park. We were able to practise our German speaking all-round the park but screaming on roller-coasters is a pretty universal language wherever you go I suppose. From Phantasialand it was back to the airport and the short flight back to the UK. We arrived back at school for 9pm and had all had a great adventure.

Many thanks to all the staff who accompanied us and made the visit a success.

Antoni Kocan – Denson 8 Josh Cuddy – Denson 8

History - Year 7

their fishy treat that was given to them.

visit Warwick Castle

Everybody found the jail where people in charge of the castle

In the Summer term, Year 7 were invited to visit Warwick Castle as part of their History studies. As you might imagine, it

imprisoned enemies (especially

was a History trip that was created to

wall that was the only source of light

further our understanding of castles

for the room. There was also a tiny

but not everything there revolved

space in the ground next to the cell

around old England. We got up to

where people were kept. It was a

many things during the day.

very tight space that was designed

The first thing we did was explore the

to make people suffer and become

during the Civil War) extremely fascinating. We noticed that there was one tiny window high up on the

very claustrophobic so that they

castle itself. Even though it had had

eventually died.

many refurbishments over the years

Warwick castle was not just a castle

you could still see, what life was like

though. They also had entertainment

over 600 years ago. We were able

during the day such as the birds

to see some of their luxurious items

of prey show. This show contained

(including beds and paintings), their

many enormous, foreign birds, which

armour and weapons for fighting

you do not see every day. It was

opponents but we also understood

amazing how much trust the staff

that not everyone had these

had with their birds as they let them

opportunities as these situations

fly quite a far distance before asking

were for privileged people.

them to return. They explained that

Finlay Power – Ridley 7

these were tame birds and do not

Callum Kiteley – Phillips 7

Another thing that we got up to was

After a long day viewing the outstanding sights of Warwick, we decided to head back to school. We learnt loads on the trip and would all happily return later. Thank you to all the History staff for organising and accompanying such a great visit.

hunt for food so they would return for

going to the highest point of Warwick Castle, which was an enormous tower. From the top, you could not only see all of the grounds but the whole of Warwick! We found out that when enemies invaded the castle they were shot at from up there due to the pull of gravity going downwards. Medieval foot-soldiers had weak armour and little protection that meant it was easy to wipe out huge numbers of advancing enemies before they reached your castle gates.

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SCHOOL VISITS Malawi Exchange 2017 As always, our trip had two distinct phases; a week of ‘projects’ based in Chilema and a second week in the more relaxed surroundings of a safari lodge followed by some time by the shores of Lake Malawi. First we had to get there.

books and ICT equipment which Mr Carson worked tirelessly to install.

However the exchange is now much wider than simply Malosa School and we were also able to provide St Luke’s hospital just down the road (or rather ‘track’) with medical beds, mattresses, nets and other equipment as well.

The hospital was staffed better than

We hand over much needed

I had ever seen it before; three very

farming equipment bought from

dedicated Dutch doctors were working

Zomba market.

there. The medical care however was

Later that day the group travelled up

The eleven and a half hour flight to

nevertheless minimal by our standards

Johannesburg leaving at 6.00 pm was

and the children’s ward proved to be a

just the start. I never sleep on a plane

very emotional experience for some -

view of the district. The Malawians

and neither did a large number of the

myself included.

didn’t like the cool of being up in the

to the top of Zomba Mountain where, cloud permitting, there is a fantastic

students. There was a despairing look

clouds whereas our lads found it a

in the eyes of someone who has been

welcome respite from the heat!

without any sleep for nearly a day that I recognised amongst several at around 4.00 am as I looked around: “Why did I agree to this and will it be worth it?” it said. I could only smile in a reassuring manner. And of course after that there was the flight to Lilongwe followed by a four hour bus

Beds, mattresses, mosquito nets

drive down to Chilema.

and other supplies were bought for

All credit to the lads for raising so

St Luke’s Hospital.

much money (in fact I think it was a

The Plateau of Zomba Mountain.

Note the difference in clothing.

Malawian pupils “It’s freezing up

Sewing machines were provided for

here!” AGS pupils “First time we’ve

an organisation empowering women

felt cool since we arrived!”

to start their own business whilst

Zomba market is also the location for

farming tools were provided for a

Mr Corby’s 2000 Kwatcha Challenge.

nearby village. ”Here’s some money,

(K2000 is about £2.20.) Each pupil

go with two Malosa pupils and don’t

has this to spend and no more

come back until you’ve got a good

and has to haggle a deal with the

At Malosa Secondary School (our

deal on watering cans, hoes, scythes

market traders. Entries varied from

main link in Malawi) we put into place

and machetes” we said at Zomba

the mundane (wooden spoons and

new desks, bunk beds, mattresses

market. The lads had to go and find,

carvings) through to the bizarre; a

and mosquito nets (not easy when

then negotiate the purchase of the

huge monkey wrench, a chair (“Can

the ceiling was often missing and

equipment that had been requested -

I take it home sir?”. Er no….) and the

there were no ladders) as well as

and they did it really well.

wheel of a car. Our Malawian minibus

record sum) which meant we could contribute to a lot of good causes.

There was a detailed report of these in the newsletter at the start of the summer term but let me list a few things that we achieved.

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drivers chose the winning entry. Food

received. Cheering, dancing, and

At night we returned to Chilema to eat

being the most important thing to

singing greeted us at every location.

(although on one occasion the dining

them they deemed it to be a pestle

Our students could see that what

hall had forgotten that we required a

and mortar.

we had been saying to them for well

meal) and sleep. The boys had been

over a year about how their efforts

warned that the accommodation might

would make a difference to people’s

be a bit primitive but until they saw it I

lives rang very true. We were all

think they thought we had been joking.

overwhelmed.

Although the rooms were clean(ish) and the beds had mosquito nets some of these had holes in them and had to be taped over to be safe. In our block there was an unpleasant smell of something or other that we couldn’t

Aaron, one of our Malawian bus

find the source of or eliminate. The

drivers, congratulates Cam Burchell

electricity was very intermittent (and

on winning the 2000 Kwatcha

it is pitch black by 6.15 pm) so we

Challenge.

often had to find our way to the toilets and showers by torch or candle light.

Preschools and primary schools

Toilet paper was plentiful for once but,

were provided with resources such

Sometimes it seemed as if the

as games, books, blackboards and

whole village had turned out to say

footballs.

‘thank you’ to us.

asked if we were going to be able to get any (a very optimistic question

Malawian children (and often adults)

given past experience) the block

loved to see the pictures we had

manager laughed and said “Ah, no”. I

taken of them and laughed and

discovered years ago that this phrase

laughed when they saw themselves.

and its intonation in Malawi actually

A truly wonderful sound in a country

means “you really are joking aren’t

where all too often there isn’t a lot

you? There is absolutely no chance of

to laugh about. Oh, and let’s not

that whatsoever.” No hot water for a

forget that the money was raised for

week. Thank goodness for hand gel!

eight Malosa pupils and two of their teachers to come back over to the UK Our fundraising for primary

as usual, hot water was not. When I

on the second part of the exchange.

school equipment will make a big

One night we had to deliver a presentation on life in the UK. Malawians do not listen politely in the way that we might in a school

difference.

assembly. They are ‘into it’ from

New classrooms and a teacher

the first few seconds; cheering

training facility funded by us were

(screaming) at something they like,

also in the process of being built

laughing loudly at something they

and it really was amazing to see

hadn’t seen before, or just simply

the response from the Africans.

shouting encouragement. The lads

This being Malawi it was never

found themselves on stage behind

going to be a polite ‘thank you’ but

a curtain facing the entire school

we had completely underestimated

Malawian children love to see

in the hall. This was it we had told

the welcome and thanks that we

pictures of themselves.

them, it’s your show. Go out, inform

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SCHOOL VISITS and entertain for 90 minutes. If ever

ridiculously large and heavy quantity

lads who were not feeling very well

there was a time to put nerves aside

of firewood on her head. Then

and so I didn’t see what transpired

and say ‘the show must go on’ it

a small child who was obviously

next. I had the impression that Malawi

was that night. Everyone played

trying to ride a bike for the first time

had scored a goal late on because

a part. No one was shy, or if they

wobbled ponderously across the face

there was some sort of restart around

were it wasn’t apparent. There was

of the Malawian goal; not that their

the centre of the pitch - although it

singing, quizzes, presentations,

keeper noticed.

could have been a free kick. I was

demonstrations, as well getting

therefore stunned to learn that we had

Malawians onto the stage to try

apparently lost 6-3 although many of

‘bottle flipping’ – Although I think their

our players seemed to have little idea

teachers wished their pupils had not

of what had actually occurred either

been introduced to that particular

and also said that the ref had been

aspect of UK youth culture since

biased. Perhaps it was down to the

Malosa students were henceforth

heat. I’m calling it a draw.

to be seen trying it out all over the school.

The traditional England v Malawi students’ football match was the most bizarre I have ever watched. Matters were not helped by the coach’s (Mr

The England v Malawi match. The pitch was pretty rough, it was about 28 degrees and nobody knew what was happening most of the time.

Corby) policy of ‘one mistake and you are subbed’. This led to changes approximately every 25 seconds throughout the game for actions such as ‘not running properly’ or ‘looking

Malawi Dream Team with Mr

daft’. All in good fun. Usually the

Nyalaya the school bursar outside

African opposition are fast, direct

the Malosa School Office.

and dangerous (despite playing on

Miss Hill christened the group of staff

hard soil in bare feet) but this time they showed little threat and indeed were losing 1-0 at half time due to a well taken goal from Fitz StegerLewis. In the second half two more goals were conceded by Malawi due in large measure to their keeper

“The Malawi Dream Team” (in fact it This lady had no trouble carrying

was the first time ever that the same

the enormous bundle of firewood

four staff had travelled two visits

on her head. Several lads tried to

running). It proved to be true. When

do the same and gave up within

you are 5000 miles from home in very

seconds.

different, and sometimes very difficult, circumstances you definitely want to

misunderstanding that his role in the

Then a group of Malosa students,

team was not in fact to turn his back

who had really taken to the idea of

on the pitch and chat to his friends

throwing and catching a rugby ball,

behind the goal. There were then

began a training session with one

First and foremost, Mr Corby must

two rather bizarre ‘pitch invasions’.

at the same time as another game

take most of the credit for what was

The first involved a diminutive African

of football began with some of the

achieved. We always undertake a lot

lady crossing the playing area - with

younger students on the pitch by the

of good work but, in my view, this time

rather more speed than our strikers

half way line (not that there was one).

we achieved more than ever before

had hitherto managed - carrying a

I was sitting down talking to some

and I speak as a veteran of five visits.

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be with people you can absolutely rely on.

He worked for two years to set it all

lads were rightly grateful for the part

on a jeep safari which was unusual

up. Sometimes dealing with people

she played during the trip. In charge

as they are very shy creatures and it

in a developing country where phone

of first aid and sympathetic to every

was sad to learn that the pair near the

calls or email don’t always get through

(even minor) health issue her quiet

camp had lost their foal to a hyena

(or if they do you don’t get a straight

reassurance and knowledge of what

attack shortly before we arrived.

answer to your question for months)

to do played a major part in their

can be very frustrating. Furthermore

wellbeing. She travelled everywhere

you can’t simply send out vast sums

with a colossal and heavy rucksack on

of money without being clear where

her back filled with medical supplies.

they are going and what the exact

I don’t think any of us relished the

result of the payments will be. Being

question “can you hang onto my bag

party leader also involves a massive

for a while?” I mean if I’d wanted a

responsibility. Despite every stage of

workout I’d have tried to find a gym….

every day being risk assessed to the maximum all of us were aware of the sorts of events that still might happen.

No one more so than him.

I have two defining memories from

moved the boat and suddenly there it was; a large reptile staring right at as he had just explained how far and fast a crocodile can jump I was rather

leader and to use my experience

keen to move upriver.

of previous trips to liaise with the Africans we had met on previous visits. Mr Corby on the other hand insisted my role was ‘maintaining

Mr Carson, our ICT Guru/Supremo/

morale’. If my fellow staff and the

Tsar had two phrases (Give me)

pupils enjoyed the never ending string

“Two seconds” (And I’ll sort it out).

of dreadful puns and daft observations

“It” was any form of phone, tablet,

on life for two solid weeks then I

or computer problem whatsoever.

surely succeeded in that.

anything from whether a seemingly endless/impossible task (e.g. fitting mosquito nets in the dormitories with no ladders or string) would ever get completed, to whether we would be ordered to evacuate the buses at a police checkpoint by ‘Jobsworths’ (yes they have them in Malawi) who were looking for any opportunity to fine us in cash for a traffic offence real or imagined. He was right. ‘It’ was fine and his cheerful enthusiasm and positive attitude played a large part in our welfare.

us - or I felt, specifically at me. Seeing

My role was basically acting as deputy

of the other members of the team.

“It’ll be fine”. In this case “It” was

guide pointed to the bank and said “See the crocodile?” No one could. He

Mention of course must be made

His second (unrelated) mantra was

Mvuu. Firstly, on a boat safari the

At Mvuu safari lodge the accommodation was much more

An elephant suddenly appearing

luxurious and we had hot (well warm

out of the bush 20m away from your

bordering on hot) water! We also got

jeep is a rather different experience

food that was not simply rice, beans,

to seeing one in a zoo.

chicken and a mysterious, though delicious, green dish that looked and tasted rather like spinach. That basic fare kept us full and healthy in the first week. (I told the lads “This is Africa remember we are lucky to have this” and I can honestly say I didn’t hear any student complain about it.)

Mvuu is in the heart of a national park and is a beautiful location with many different species of animals, birds and

Speaking of welfare, Miss Hill (Or

plants. The big ‘draw’ is the presence

rather ‘Doctor’ Hill as she became

of elephants and luckily we were

known for the second visit running)

privileged to see a lot of them. Also

deserves a very special mention. The

Zebras were spotted by one group

The guide has just explained how far and fast a crocodile can jump.

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SCHOOL VISITS Secondly, on a night-time game drive the guide explained how hippos do not like to deviate from their established paths. No sooner had he said that than a huge beast appeared on the track right in front of us and we fell absolutely silent. A hippo up close is a truly awesome sight. They can grow up to 1.6m tall. A female can easily weigh 1400kg and a male 1600kg. Whatever sex it was - and I certainly didn’t intend to start a speculative discussion with the guide at this juncture - it looked particularly angry that we were in its way (and, like the Crocodile, seemingly appeared to be looking straight at me). It stared aggressively for what seemed like ages before eventually crashing off into the bush to our right making a loud sequence of deep grunting noises of which I imagine a rough translation would be “I’m not going to forget this. I know where you live”. In fact later that night there WAS a hippo lumbering noisily around our chalets but I wasn’t going to venture out to try and make a judgement as to if it was the same one. Unlike elephants, who will perform at least one ‘mock charge’, hippos default straightaway into attack mode if they sense the remotest chance of success of biting you (in half) when annoyed – and it doesn’t take much to annoy one.

Hippos may look cute, but they are unpredictable and dangerous.

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After Mvuu we had a couple of days on the shores of Lake Malawi. Very luxurious and very beautiful. The resort included a reasonable quality football pitch and also a nine hole golf course. Only a limited number of places were available for golf and so only students who knew how to play were allowed. It quickly became apparent that the eight students who had assured us they were all experienced players had not been entirely truthful. The first hole saw one student (who will remain anonymous) take ten shots to move less than 100m. I initially wondered why we had paid extra for an additional bag of golf balls but I soon realised why.

I lost count of the number of them disappearing into the rough (you couldn’t go and look for them in case there were snakes) or into water hazards. Far from enjoying a pleasant afternoon stroll accompanying the lads much of my time was spent dodging shots flying around at angles wildly tangential to their intended direction. The game was never actually finished because it took so long to complete the first four holes that darkness started to fall and play had to be abandoned.

After this it was time to fly home and the cold of Heathrow was nothing like the welcoming warmth of Lilongwe. As soon as we got off the coach parents naturally started to ask “What was it like?” I exchanged looks with the lads just as I had on the plane on the way out. This time it was a rather more positive and knowing look - “Where do you start?!”

Mr A Grant

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

Religious Studies - Year 10 visit Aylesbury Town Centre On Monday 12th June, Mrs Crussell, Mr Warner and the Year 10 Religious Studies students visited 4 Churches and met with a Town Chaplain in Aylesbury town centre.

We were met by compassionate and enthusiastic elders, leaders or significant figures within the Church community with crucial roles in the management and coordination of their Church. These leaders kindly showed us around their building, explaining that certain features signify specific beliefs and how the Church itself helps the local community in and around Aylesbury. In addition, they described a typical service at their church and whether it contains liturgical or non-liturgical worship and preaching. This highlighted numerous similarities and differences between the various denominations within Christianity. For example, in St Joseph’s Catholic Church, Father John talked us through the process of Mass, following a specific and coordinated routine which contrasted hugely with the Quakers, also known as the Religious Society of Friends, where there was no ‘formal’ service or symbolic ritual at all - only personal reflection. Another difference is the way that some of the Churches performed a baptism. For example, Granville Street Evangelical Church used a baptism pool which enabled the participant to be fully submerged after they had made a personal decision to follow Christ. However, Aylesbury Methodist Church and St

Joseph’s Catholic Church used a font and baptised anyone (including many babies) by sprinkling some water on their heads. The Methodist Minister explained that baptism is for anyone and everyone because the grace of God is for anyone and everyone.

During our lunch break, a member of the Street Angels and Aylesbury Town Chaplaincy came and spoke to us about the voluntary work they perform late at night and in work places in the town during the day to help anyone going through challenging times who wants to talk.

In the afternoon we visited the Society of Friends (Quaker) meeting place which we agreed was the most simple and unadorned. It was the denomination that I found the most interesting. One of the “friends” welcomed us, presented their personal views and explained the Quaker philosophy. Quakers, as an organisation, have no set beliefs or ideals which meant that we struggled to put our fingers on what exactly they do and don’t believe. They do share important values like peace and equality. We had our own short meeting in silence for five minutes which gave us space to reflect and listen in peace. Some of us found the silence discomforting however we soon realised that this form of worship is an effective way to get closer to God.

As a Christian myself, what I found most interesting was discovering how little I knew regarding other denominations and their ways of worship and practices. For example, I had never been in a Methodist Church before and never understood the history behind the Methodist movement rooted in social action.

In addition, I never understood the many statues and their relevance in a Catholic Church. As well as this, I learnt how unique and different the silent Quaker worship is compared to Catholic rituals and Methodist hymns. I truly enjoyed this trip and would thoroughly advocate this to anyone keen to learn about Christian denominations simply based on the amount of knowledge I gained from it.

Ben Bishop - Denson 10

the silence to deeply reflect on our thoughts. After 5 minutes we stood up and shook hands with each other to indicate that the meeting was over, following the example of Kevin, our host. It was so bizarre, that it amused me, in one sense, but I loved how unique the process was and I wanted to do it again. After the visit, it so appealed to me that I would consider joining the Quakers because it’s not just an option available to Christians, but to me as a Muslim too. The calm and comfortable atmosphere in the meeting room resonated with my personality and the Quaker belief in pacifism is something I support. I asked whether I could join in with the weekly Sunday meetings, uneasy in case my religion may stop me from doing so, and I was told that I would be welcomed with warm and open hands. I even borrowed a book written by a Muslim Quaker that Mrs Crussell spotted on the bookshelf which I found very open-minded and inclusive. Although I enjoyed all the places of worship we visited and found them all equally informative, I was inspired by the Quakers the most.

Shoheb Hassan – Phillips 10

As a Muslim, I found the Quakers the most interesting of the Christian places of worship. Quaker worship is so different from the traditional Protestant, Catholic and Orthodox Christianity I know of, and is even more distinct from Islamic prayer.

Kevin, a “friend” spoke briefly about Quakerism and then we went into the Meeting House hidden away behind two terraced cottages on Rickfords Hill and experienced our own shortened meeting in the same way as a normal meeting – except we did 5 minutes instead of an hour. The house was old, and as we settled down, we used

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SCHOOL VISITS Year 7 Residential With a worth-it early start we were off on a 5-hour coach journey to Cheshire, even with a nice long stop at a service station to stretch our legs we still got there in good time. To be honest it flew by because we were excitedly chatting and having fun on the coach. Once there we were sent to our camps and put into tribes, with famous looking tribe leaders! We were already hyped and quickly playing games such as Predator (running to get to the vantage point where you couldn’t be seen) or Twenty One (similar to predator but involved more injuries!). Our first main activity was making a fire in the woods, and one of my favourite parts was getting to melt marshmallows over the fire we made.

Next, we had to make shelters, that was a real challenge; with one-half of us finding the wood and the other half building and you could even sleep in them that night if you were brave enough. Jack Black (Our tribe leader

lookalike) and all the leaders were helpful, giving instructions making it fun and answering any questions or worries we had but the best part of the trip had to have been camping with your mates in your shelter, with fires and songs and staying up later than usual. The only thing that made me cringe was some of the lads eating salmon eyes after the teachers and staff had filleted them! We also learnt medical procedures by having to find our tribe leaders in a perilous situation then act fast to help them. Then after a tiring day, we went to bed, with our warm sleeping bags, telling stories and jokes until late at night. The final day was one of best with competitive archery and slingshot mayhem in teams of three firing bean bags to see who’s bean bag went the furthest.

After an exhilarating end to the trip, it was time to get back on the bus, with good byes and heavy bags we were on our way back with what had felt like only a couple of hours of fun had now come to a happy end. Overall, I really enjoyed this trip and would highly recommend it!

Artyno Martire-Charlett - Lee 7 Boluwatifemito Oyedepo - Lee 7

Our Year 7 residential started when we arrived at Cholmondeley Castle on 14th June. The trip was amazing and we had an action packed few days full of many activities such as archery, an adventure course, trap building, shelter making, creating survival bracelets, making tent pegs and playing games like Predator and Twenty One. This residential got us away from the life we were living (sitting at home playing on electronic devices ) and got us into the real natural world.

Ben Foster - Phillips 7

During our time on the Year 7 residential, we played games in the woods with our tribe leaders.

These included Predator and 21, most people thought Predator was the best of the two. We were given the decision to sleep in the tents or shelters. We played many games and had to work out especially hard riddle games. Every night everyone gathered around the campfire and had a hot chocolate with marshmallows then went to bed.

We had a great time.

Adam Sarraff - Phillips 7

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Science - Year 9 visit Thorpe Park Thorpe Park, school and science. Three things I’d never thought could be put in the same sentence. However, I guess I’m wrong, as I was one of the boys lucky enough to get a place on the coveted school science trip to Thorpe Park.

Split into two groups we were all herded through security and into the park.

Once in, Group 1 went straight into the roller coasters and motion workshop. Here we looked at the different styles of rollercoaster and how they work. We also looked at the force required to get Stealth, the park’s highest coaster, all the way up to its 210-foot peak. Despite being sceptical about doing a workshop at a theme park, it was actually rather interesting and 25 minutes later; we walked far more knowledgeable about the rides we were about to endure.

The next hours were filled with many long queues followed by marginal fear and a lot of excitement. A muchneeded trip to Burger King was made part way through the day followed by my personal highlight of the day. A ride on ‘Saw’, one of the park’s big 5 coasters. Luckily we managed to get into the ride just minutes after it had opened which was a bonus. The ride starts in the dark, then you narrowly drop under a set of swinging axes then rush outside and start a vertical 30m ascent followed by a vertical descent with lots of twists and turns and a top speed of 55mph. All of these factors added together to make an interesting mid ride photo.

It was a great day thoroughly enjoyed by all and luckily the British weather was kind to us. A good way to start the last half term of year 9 and some preGCSE fun. A big thank you must go to the teaching staff who came with us on the trip and even tested out some of the rides to make sure they were safe for the students.

Sam Gilbert – Denson 9

Skiing 2017 As many of these things do, the trip started with an early morning, a bus ride, and a couple of hours in an airport.

Luckily for us, we were flying out of Heathrow Terminal 2, which already started to make the early morning worthwhile. After our last taste of averagely-sized British food, we boarded our flight to… Dublin. In a rather ingenious ploy to keep costs down, we took a connecting flight which saved us both money, and time at US immigration, by ‘going through’ in Ireland. So, after a short jaunt across the pond, in which a lack of turbulence was at a premium, the contingent of 70 of us could stride out of Logan Airport and into the harsh weather of Boston with ease. Only the day before, had somewhat of a snow storm piled through the city, which, while making things rather chilly, did help us prepare for the conditions to come at Jay. We spent the evening at Quincy Market, breaking us nicely into the grander portion sizes of our American cousins.

The next day we departed the optimistically named Quality Inn and began the lengthy drive to Jay. On

the way, we stopped at an outlet mall, which, like many places as such in America, was devoid of life, which only made the process of bargainfinding even easier. And even with the dire state of the pound, we were all able to find good quality deals, and by the time everyone had got back into the coach and placed their bags down, branded products were aplenty.

After some more driving, AGS arrived at Jay Peak and following the pick-up of our ski equipment and dinner, we all happily fell asleep after yet another long day.

As we looked out onto the piste on the morning of day one, the snow was falling. It turned out to be that this happened every morning, and for most of the time we were there as well. This allowed for some of the greatest powder skiing that one could wish to enjoy, so therefore after having breakfast (with truly delicious bacon and pancakes) the group hit the slopes, and got to meet our instructors for the week. For some, starting skiing was just getting back into the swing of things. For others, it was their first time on skis, but luckily for them, their instructors were able to get their confidence up in no time.

Progression in all groups could be seen, even in the top group where by the end of Day 5 they were able to master some of the trickiest glade skiing. While the conditions were often bitter, the snow conditions helped make up for the sometimes -15°C temperatures that could be found at the top of the mountain.

Every evening, a new activity awaited us students. Bingo was the first night’s entertainment, followed by a trip to the Pump House. This is no mere

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SCHOOL VISITS though involve us falling over getting stuck a lot as we had only skied for the first time a few days ago.

Each day we skied from place to place and did something new and exciting. The only downside of the trips was when our five days of skiing ended. After that, we drove down to New York. As it was my first time to the USA I did not know what to expect going to one of the most famous cities in the world.

shoe store, no; the Pump House was an indoor waterpark, with a lazy river, a surfboard machine, and slides - one of which starts with the floor dropping out from beneath you. Not only is this an enjoyable experience in itself, listening to the screams of the teaching staff as they took on the challenge provided more than ample entertainment for the evening.

We also had a quiz night, where the Year 12s were distributed among the younger year’s teams to make them fairer. However, let this be to no offence to the Year 9s; in my team, the Year 12 among us made the bulk of the team’s answers.

After another equally pleasant trip to the Pump House on the next night, and then the fifth day of skiing (with yet more snow still falling), our time at Jay had come to an end. Some 5 remarkably snow-filled days had left us all fulfilled, though it was still sad to drive away. New York was the final stop on our journey, where we took a swift trip up the Empire State Building, ate our final hearty meal just below the iconic edifice, and then proceeded on a fascinating walk down Manhattan

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Island, passing Times Square, 42nd Street and the Flatiron Building. We also saw an anti-Trump rally and the 9/11 memorial at ground zero before finishing our walk at Battery Park and catching our coach to the airport. The whole trip was a great snowy success, and all the boys enjoyed it thoroughly.

Special thanks to Mr Ramsbottom for organising the trip, and to all the teaching staff who came along to allow the trip to go ahead.

James Burton – Phillips 12

Once there, we visited the Empire State Building where we saw amazing views all around the city. I remember as our group walked out of the Empire State Building on the other side of the street there was a souvenir shop. A lot of us wanted a few souvenirs to take home so we went there and looked around. The only problem was when we had finished we couldn’t find any other groups.

Thank you to Mr Ramsbottom and all the other staff for organising such a fantastic trip. I really enjoyed going skiing and I would love to do it again.

Rocco Wooster – Ridley 9

In all honesty, on the first day of skiing, I was not the best. The way I would stop myself from crashing into other people was by purposefully falling into the ground. I took a day or two to grasp how to turn and to stop.

The ski instructors were very helpful and by the next day, I was mostly able to ski. My favourite part of the trip was when we were allowed to go to a more difficult section which was in the woods. For example, we would start off with the route and then we would spot a place where we fancied going in the woods and skied there. This did

The Aylesburian 2016/2017

Spanish - Year 9 visit Salou & Barcelona After arriving and settling in at our resort in Salou on a warm Spanish evening, on one of the opening days of the AGS Barcelona trip 2016 we were all graced with the opportunity to visit Camp Nou the home of FC Barcelona. We saw the museum of their impressive collection of European trophies and got to have a look inside the home dressing room followed by the famous walk out onto the pitch and going very near the dugout. We also saw a great selection of the different sports at Barcelona including football, ice hockey, ice skating and basketball.

Here we all got the opportunity to try out ice skating. Some of my peers were naturally good at it and others not quite.

In Barcelona, we enjoyed some fairly exotic dishes of tapas at a restaurant of our choice. A few of us overspent on our budget of 75 Euros but we managed to pay for our meal and avoid an international incident! The food was really tasty, I tried ‘Patatas Bravas’ which are small randomly cut fried potatoes as well as ‘Pimientos de Padrón’ which is simply a Roulette of spicy or non-spicy peppers.

Barcelona is home to some incredible architecture which was awesome, most of it was made by Antoni Gaudi.

We got to see La Sagrada Familia which is an incredible cathedral which was started in 1882 but is still not yet finished; it’s expected to be finished by 2028. Though Gaudi died in 1926, his plans for the cathedral have been the main inspiration for the construction currently taking place.

sand sculptures which are renowned for being extremely detailed. El Dracon is a big model lizard made up with mosaic tiles which provide a flash of colour to the park. Gaudi’s architecture was always inspired by

Gaudi also made an incredible park in the centre of Barcelona called Park Guell. The park contains amazing

the natural world.

On the last full day of our memorable trip to Salou and Barcelona, we got the opportunity to visit PortAventura, a theme park which boasts Europe’s tallest and fastest roller coaster - the Shambhala. It was a massively fun day where we were all separated into groups and went on different rides together. The queues weren’t too long though it was very hot in the park. My group’s personal favourites were the log flumes and Tutuki Splash.

On behalf of everyone that went, we would like to thank all the teachers for organising and leading a magnificent trip.

Dylan Sellors – Ridley 9 Sam Packer – Ridley 9

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SCHOOL VISITS Spanish - Year 10 & 12 Exchange 2017 Whilst the 3:00AM start may not have been most conducive in the creation of an excited bus of AGS and AHS students, by the time we reached Gatwick airport the whole group were certainly eager to step foot on Spanish soil and get the ‘Reggaeton’ (Spanish tunes) banging from the back of the coach. A short plane journey ensued, followed by a 45-minute trip from the airport to Murcia, where we had the opportunity to meet our exchanges and their fellow students.

We then returned to our exchanges’ houses for lunch (traditional dishes ranged from rabbit paella to traditional stews), before joining our other exchanges for an evening of tapas and a brief student-led tour of the city.

Thursday and Friday saw us experience the typical day-to-day life of a Murcian school student, joining lessons for the day and having the chance to practise plenty of Spanish, as well as discover more about some of the very pronounced differences between the Spanish and English education system: how many English schools can boast a fully-functioning internal museum? On Friday, we were also lucky enough to be treated to a tour of many of the city’s great buildings, from the town hall (where we met the mayor and were invited to stand on the balcony from which a ‘prégon’ is made during major festivals) to the old casino (which Tom was lucky enough to frequent again over the weekend for the

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traditional Spanish wedding of his exchange’s cousin!).

For the rest of us, the weekend was an opportunity to eat some more typical tapas, explore many of the city’s great sites and also watch a game of football or two! Whilst the nucleus of the group remained intact, individual pairs went off to discover the culture, location and traditions in their individual ways; the WhatsApp group chat was the most intellectually-stimulated it had been in a considerable length of time, and students once again had the opportunity to practise their Spanish in a new context.

Early on Monday morning, with everyone re-energised from a weekend in the Spanish sun, the coach set off for Granada and the Alhambra, carrying both the English Students and their Spanish exchanges. After a long coach journey through the icy cold of the Sierra Nevada (“Snowy Mountains”), we arrived in the city for a few hours of shopping and sightseeing, before taking the coach up to the Alhambra hill to see the main attraction of the day, the Medieval Moorish palace.

Everyone was taken aback by the imposing red exterior, the dazzling beauty of the rooms and courtyards inside and the water features that dominate the palace and gardens.

On the final full day of the trip we all filed onto the coach; sad to be about to say goodbye to Spain, but excited to see the port of Cartagena and hit the beaches of La Manga.

During our free time in the city the Year 12s took the opportunity to sample the traditional churros, whilst the Year 10s took the opportunity

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to buy several large bottles of fizzy drinks. After visiting the Roman amphitheatre, we headed off to the beaches where we enjoyed some swimming-free fun. That night, to celebrate the exchange, the whole group headed out to Murcia town centre for a meal together. As our coach pulled away from Alfonso X El Sabio school, nobody wanted to say goodbye to Murcia and our exchanges and everyone was already eagerly anticipating the return leg.

After four long months of school, in June it was finally time for the Spanish students to visit their English families. They arrived to uncharacteristically warm temperatures (which during the week would even surpass those in the South of Spain) and straight away began their exploration of English culture, as guests of honour at Aylesbury High School Sports

World Challenge 2017 Two years of planning, fundraising and preparation, an itinerary teeming with activity and adventure, and we were off on the trip of a lifetime. First up was Bali, a cultural Day. Whilst here they enjoyed trips to Warwick Castle, London and Cadbury World and on Tuesday were joined by the English students in a visit to Oxford, with a guided tour of the famous university and time for shopping and exploring.

During the evenings and the weekend, the organisation of activities was handed over to the British students and their families, and the Spanish were treated to a wide variety of traditional treats and traditions, sampling Fish and Chips, Afternoon Tea and even that most English of restaurants, Nando’s.

On Saturday most exchanges enjoyed a picnic in the sun at Waddesdon Manor and on Sunday many made the trip to London, although the sales on Oxford Street

seemed to be more attractive than the English architecture!

After a phenomenal week, the time to say goodbye came around again far too quickly and there was not a dry eye on Turnfurlong as the coach full of Spanish students headed off for the airport. However, for many students it was not a final goodbye, and the exchange was definitely the start of numerous lifelong friendships.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank Mrs Corbould for organising the exchange and Mrs Burnett, Miss Santamaría and Miss Oatley for accompanying us on an incredible trip and experience we’ll never forget. ¡Muchísimas Gracias!

Tom Cay – Paterson 12 Adam Woodage – Phillips 12

hub of Hinduism and Buddhism, with an oxymoronic feeling of hectic tranquillity. After overcoming the inevitable jet-lag, we visited the main sites of Ubud, renowned for the endless backdrop of rice paddies and temples and (slightly more quirkily) a monkey sanctuary where many of us found out just how friendly monkeys can be.

Next was a chance to slip into walking boots and ensure a complete covering of jungle formula had been applied, as we headed to West Bali National Park for two days of acclimatisation treks with Ari, staying with his family and discovering tales of his extraordinary life representing Indonesia in the Paralympics. These treks took us through jungles and along beaches, discovering the natural side to the island. After these two days of trekking, we rewarded ourselves with a token day of rest and relaxation coral reef snorkelling in Pemuteran, in preparation for the next phase.

The time had come to depart Bali, and although we were sad to leave such a relaxed environment, seeing Java gave a great anticipation for what was to come, six days of trekking up a total of three volcanoes.

The phase started with the first of many 3am starts to climb Kawah Ijen

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SCHOOL VISITS The endless complications of getting an injured student down a mountain meant an increasingly infuriating day spent waiting at the campsite, with the chances of summiting steadily falling as the minutes passed.

for sunrise, with a view from the top that was worth the drizzly climb, as the azure pH 0.3 sulfur lake slowly cleared for all to see. Seeing Ijen gave us a great deal of excitement for the next climbs, supposedly offering the best views in Java; Pananjakan and Mt Bromo.

Another day and another early start, rewarded with a view of clouds, all shapes and sizes, enrobed in a thick fog which allowed no sight beyond an arm’s length. Being reminded of the wonders of google images, we headed back down the mountain to top Bromo, if only for personal satisfaction and a feeling not dissimilar to being next to Heathrow airport, only colder and foggier.

Although disappointed to have had a day without good views, spirits remained high as we made our way to Ranu Pani, our base camp for the four-day ascent of Mt Semeru.

Last minute essentials bought, trek food handed over, motivational talks complete, and we were ready. The morning arrived and brought with it the rain which would remain for the entirety of the days walking, making the negotiation down a steep and slippery slope to camp even harder, which would see us lose a team member for the remainder of the trek.

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With the day’s dilemmas over and one man down, the trek continued, with only minor hindrance from heat exhaustion, to the second camp, and then only a few hours later to the summit. Fuelled by glucose and the determination to succeed, we made the summit after three hours and 1000m elevation gain, and for a short time we forgot all ailments and enjoyed the ecstasy that came with finally summiting, and being 3676m above sea level. The inevitable and long descent quickly became a blur, with everyone wanting to get off the mountain as soon as possible and begin the next phase of the trip.

Yogyakarta beckoned, and after an 8 hour train journey with entertainment limited to four loops of the same film, we had reached our final city. First on the agenda was four unforgettable project days at Wildlife Rescue Jogja.

Here we assumed several roles trying to get stuck in as much as we could, helping a plethora of different

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mammals, reptiles and birds who had been rescued from illegal trade and private owners. Although saddening to see so many animals who had been abused and were now confined to cages, some of them indefinitely, it was extremely rewarding to do all we could to help the animals have as good a life as possible.

Nearing the end of our time in Java, we returned to the city for a few days to sightsee, with the main attraction being the two UNESCO temples of Borobudur and Prambanan, with an abundance of intricate carvings and designs. Topped off by a visit to the Ramayana ballet at Prambanan, and we were all templed-out for the trip!

All that was left was one final day of shopping for last minute souvenirs and Javanese coffee, and a fond farewell to Java.

This experience would not have been nearly as good without the wealth of experience given by our leader Steve and two teachers, Miss Hill and Dr Gardner who we would like to express great thanks to for allowing the trip to run so successfully.

Cameron MacDonald – Lee 11 Tej Morjaria – Ridley 11

Rugby & Squash Tour 2017 Singapore & Australia

After two years of planning and a certain amount of fundraising, 33 bushy-eyed Rugby and Squash players, along with Mr Ramsbottom, Mr Withey, Mr Rooney and Mr Gibbs assembled in the early hours by the Sixth Form Common room, luggage in tow, eagerly awaiting the two weeks we had ahead of us. After boarding the coach to Heathrow, the surprisingly rambunctious group of lads faced the gruelling 13 hour flight to our first destination (Singapore) very much in the spirit of a rugby tour much to the dismay of our fellow passengers. After arriving and dropping our bags off at the first hotel, we brushed aside our jetlag

about like the tourists we were.

Centre’ (a name none of us, to this

Having thoroughly worn ourselves

day, know how to pronounce). The

out, we headed back to the hotel for

next day we ventured over to Surfer’s

a quick meal and turned in for an

Paradise, where the group was able

early night.

to surf in one of the most coveted

With some of the company struggling to adjust to the time difference, we

surfing beaches in the world and despite some very mixed abilities most of the tour were able to at least

had a late start the next morning

stand on a board. Thanks to the

for our day of sightseeing. A rather

facilities, we were able to get some

leisurely afternoon of shopping,

training in before our next match at

led swiftly to our first game against

All Saints High School. Having lost

Tanglin Rugby Club; being the first

some key players due to injury in the

fixture, we were eager to start the

last match, we were less confident

tour off with a win. From the get-

going into this contest, but with an

go we showed real strength and

early try from Robbie Filleul we soon

tenacity, with our pack dominating

began to settle in to the game. This

convincingly. Thanks to a hat-trick

advantage was lost, however, when

from Dan Wells and some great

some scrappy ball in our own 22 saw

leadership from our fly half, Ben

them shift it out wide and score in

Coldicott, we secured a resounding

the corner. Another score from Dan

victory by 20-10. However, our celebrations were slightly dampened after the loss of Flynn Delaney, who

Wells saw us take the lead once more, only to be lost by a dropped kick that bounced fortuitously for the

after breaking his arm was forced to

opposition. Despite some regrouping

head back home.

at half time that saw us dominate for

and headed off to Sentosa Island,

Following a relatively brisk 9-hour

most of the half, we were only able to

where student and teacher alike

flight we arrived in Brisbane, setting

convert this pressure into one score.

spent the day childishly splashing

up camp at the ‘Tallebudgera Sports

We were undoubtedly the stronger

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SCHOOL VISITS penalty from Oliver Shearer saw us come away 10-5 victors. Our second hosting followed, this time in and around Sydney, we spent a couple of evenings seeing the world famous sights of Sydney.

Our final game came against Dural Rugby Club; the cold, wet, dark field that met us reminded us of home, as did the opposition that met us. They were undeniably the most physical team, but some very questionable

coast, Fraser Island was undoubtedly

refereeing along with our inability to

one of the highlights of the trip. After

convert saw us take our first, and

this we took a short flight south to

only, loss of the tour by 15-17.

Sydney, staying right in the hustle

The evening resulted in some questionable behaviour from most of the tour, which led to the staff being quite grumpy for our trip to Australian National Zoo. A 2-day hosting followed with Urangan State High School, Hervey Bay, which some of the company thoroughly enjoyed and others didn’t enjoy quite as much due to certain circumstances. Afterwards, we had a game against our hosts; another hat-trick from Dan Wells along with the heralded return of ‘star fly half’ Ben Coldicott, saw us book a definitive 32-12 triumph.

and bustle of the city centre. Our next game came against Marist College; despite a few big players we dominated for most of the first half, unfortunately an untimely interception saw the hosts break through and get the only score of the half. Excluding a few minutes of desperate defending, the story of the second half was much the same with us fighting to break the deadlock.

Finally, impromptu fly half, Harvey Mack, put a lovely chip over the top slotting in Dan Wells for his 8th try of the tour. A successful conversion and

Next we travelled away from Hervey Bay towards the much-anticipated Fraser Island. Often acclaimed for its white sandy beaches, beautiful indigenous wildlife and towering greenery, the idyllic paradise was quickly invaded by the unmistakable cry of 30 speedo-clad teenagers diving into the blissful calm of Lake Victoria. Along with a 4x4 tour of the island and a plane trip around the

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game we had, but technically they were lacking. Once again Dan Wells appeared on the score sheet, coming in as our top try scorer with 10 tries.

Other scores from Xav Atkins and Isaac McDonald, along with some brilliant kicking from Harvey Mack saw us secure our biggest victory of the tour by 29-0. Well done to all those involved in the tour and a special thanks goes to the staff for putting up with us for two weeks, especially to Mr Ramsbottom for all the effort and planning that went on behind the scenes.

Xavier Atkins – Denson 12

The AGS squash tour started in Singapore. After a thirteen hour flight the team had their first match that same evening – tough schedule! The match was against the Singapore National Team at the grand Kallang Squash centre.

The effects of travel and jet lag against strong opposition proved too much for the team and they lost comprehensively, despite Marcus Connor and Harshi Gupta putting up a brave battle against the Singapore no.1 ranked boy and girl players.

After a much needed rest one more team match was played in Singapore at the famous Singapore Cricket club the next day before we all headed off to Australia for the next stage of the tour.

James Glover won the plate draw. In Category C, Elliott Abdey made the final but unfortunately lost in a hard fought match. In Category B, Harshi Gupta impressed with a comfortable win. In Category A, Lewis Milner came a solid fourth place narrowly losing to the Australian ranked no.8 player. Marcus Connor reached the Category A final but lost to the Australian ranked no.1 player. Overall the AGS team represented themselves well with solid performances, good results and certainly impressed their overseas opponents.

of the squad to enable this trip to take place. This was a fantastic, once in a lifetime opportunity from which all the players have gained invaluable experiences and development as players as well as having a great time!

Marcus Connor – Denson 11

The AGS squash team would like to thank Mr Withey for all the organising, coaching and supporting

In Australia the two main highlights were firstly, the professional coaching received from Tristan Nancarrow (Australian former World no.3).

This was great fun and also very beneficial to get individual tips from such an experienced former world class player. The second highlight in Australia was the entire squad entering a squash tournament against some excellent local players.

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PTA 50 AGS students and 2 Dads who

Quiz Night - a brilliant evening

ventured to Sabotage Paintball in

with an excellent curry again

Swanbourne – an excellent day’s

provided by an anaesthetist, a

entertainment. Once again, the

surgeon and parent who have

2016-2017 has been another very

organisers at Swanbourne were

volunteered to be part of the

successful year for AGS PTA, both

very complimentary about the AGS

succession planning in the kitchen.

in terms of fundraising and playing

students – saying they are a credit to

The reputation of the curry goes

an important role in the school

the school. The total for the 2 events

before them and is instrumental in

community. This year we have

was £728 and I would like to thank

the sell-out status of the event. A

raised £31,904 of which £3,292 has

David Greig for organising these

record 218 tickets were sold this

already been handed over to the

popular and fun events.

year, which meant a second sitting

school for the Rewards Scheme

Lower School Film Night

and Staff Departmental Bursaries.

- a pre-DVD release of ‘Star Trek

The following is a summary of the

Beyond’ held in the Lecture Theatre

activities and events organised by

cooked and served, quite a feat. After

and enjoyed by over 60 boys and

the PTA this year:

a tie break the quiz was won by a

Mr Dallas. The event, organised

team of Foundation Governors and

New Year 7 Parents’ Information Evening - due to

by Rona Heritage raised £208. As

family members. I am delighted to

Rona’s son is in Year 13, Rona has

announce that the Quiz and Curry

now handed over the running of this

Night raised an amazing £4,048.

event to Thildie Peacock. We would

Thanks go to Liz Alexander, her

like to take this opportunity to thank

willing team of supporters and to the

Rona for all her help and support at

chefs. Liz steps down after 5 years

PTA events over the years and wish

leading the Quiz Committee and she

her well for the future.

hands the reins over to Jo Cay.

PTA Chairman’s Report 2016-17

dwindling attendances, this year the event changed format, became a school led event and attracted a greater audience. The PTA organised a bar and refreshments.

Mr Sturgeon and Mr Singh led tours

in the dining room. Including the helpers, who paid £5 a head for curry, a total of 240 meals were

PTA fundraising, including the PTA

AGS 23RD Art and Craft Fair - we welcomed 50 exhibitors

Science Laboratory, the refurbished

and about 500 visitors to the Fair.

Music Rooms, Gym Suite and Mini

Through a great team effort, a total

bus, whilst the PTA chatted informally

of £3,383 was raised a huge thank

to recruit new supporters. The new

you to the Art and Craft Fair Team.

format was a great success for both

We are also very grateful to Cartridge

school and PTA and will be repeated

World (now re-named 2D & 3D

The Summer Fete – so

next year.

Printworld), our event sponsors,

dependent on the weather and this

who also provided 3D printing

year we were very lucky to escape

demonstrations. We would like to

the heatwave of weekend before

showing the parents the fruits of

Outdoor Laser Event for Year 7’s and Paintballing

Bar and Raffle at Cabaret Night – the Bar raised £568 and raffle raised £424 which has once again be donated straight back to the Music Department to fund equipment and music for next year’s events.

thank Gaynor Bull for everything

and thankfully no rain! Along with

- Laser had over 100 boys attending,

she has done to ensure the smooth

the usual attractions we had a Rio

spread over 3 sessions in one day.

running of this event for several

Olympic Torch and also up and

A great bonding event for the boys.

years and as her son is now finishing

coming AGS Bands playing outside

Paintballing was held in March for

at AGS she has handed over the

and quieter music inside for people

all year groups. This year we had

reins to Lisa Kemp.

to listen to while eating some of

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back). So, huge thanks to Sarah Howard, Posy Maloney and the Summer Ball Team for organising a brilliant evening. A fantastic result.

The other main fundraisers are the Christmas and Summer Raffles, which raised over £6000 between them. The raffles are being handed over to a small event team for next year, but will still need support from the main PTA committee in obtaining some of the larger prizes.

the wonderful cakes on offer. I am

rush by the ladies to buy a glass of

pleased to announce the Fete raised

champagne to be in the chance of

Selling second hand uniform at the

£3,849 and I would like to take

winning a designer handbag! £600

Parent Consultation Evenings (Years

this opportunity to thank Deborah

was raised in less than 5 minutes!

7 – 10) remains both a successful

Staines for heading up the Fete

There were some excellent auction

initiative and a service for parents,

this year, under Cathy Winman’s

prizes and following some frantic

raising £309 in the process. I would

expert guidance and to all the Fete

bidding and thanks to Tim Chapman

like to thank Caroline Darling and

Committee Team, a real team effort.

our Auctioneer we raised £3,415 with

Cathy Winman for running the

Numbers attending were certainly

an additional £635 in the Gold and

Second-hand uniform for several

less this year so some work will

Silver Raffle. Guests were treated

years and they now hand over the

need to be done to see if we can

to the sounds of Junktion Band,

reins to Jacqui Williams. As Caroline

encourage more of the school

our very talented musicians, and

Darling’s son is in Year 13, Caroline

community to engage with

the dance floor was packed. A truly

will be leaving the school and I would

this fabulous event.

fantastic night raising an amazing

like thank Caroline for all her help

£9376 the highest amount ever made

and support over the years and wish

at an event (as far as we can track

her all the best for the future.

Summer Ball - The last event of the year was ‘The Best of British’ Summer Ball. The Hall looked absolutely amazing and again we were so lucky with the weather enabling us to have pre-dinner drinks in the Quad, alongside our special guest “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang”. I would like to thank Asset Wise for sponsoring the event (they have also agreed to sponsor Burns Night in January 2018) and also, all our table sponsors. There was a great atmosphere and 131 guests enjoyed a delicious 3 course meal.

The evening started with a mad

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89

PTA

The Giving Machine has continued to

not forgetting heading up the very

many years. Graham has now

help boost our fundraising by parents

successful Quiz and Curry Night.

handed over the reins to Tracey

registering and shopping on line.

This year £1,373 has been received to date. I am pleased to report that we have raised £1,460 this year by parents obtaining Match Funding through their companies. There are

Secondly, thanks to Peter Chapman for taking over the role of Treasurer

Enormous thanks to Cathy Winman

from Gaynor Bull in February. Peter

who has been a fantastic support

has had a very busy couple of weeks

over the last 5 years.

with the Summer Fete, followed the

also a few other key people in the

weekend after by the Summer Ball

PTA that I must mention as I could

and then a 5-day turnaround of the

not do my role as Chairman without

numbers for the AGM so thank you!

their support.

Boyd Hall.

A big thank you to Gillian Barnett who has been the PTA Secretary for the last year. I am pleased to report that Gillian is going to head up Burns

Huge thanks to Lorna Noble for doing

Night in January 2018, although she

The first is Liz Alexander, Vice

brilliant job with all the catering, Ian

is standing down as Secretary and

Chair you have been a tremendous

Sexton and his team for running a

handing over the reins to Tracey

support to me over the last 2 years,

very successful bar at all our PTA

Boyd Hall. And finally huge thanks to

and in particular, dealing with the

events. I would like to take this

Gaynor Bull, who is now leaving the

succession planning for all our

opportunity of thanking Graham

school and has been a tremendous

events to ensure the momentum of

Woodage for managing the Database

support to me as Chair over the last

the PTA for the future and of course

collating parents’ offers of help for

7 years.

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The Aylesburian 2016/2017

Thank you to everyone who has

year fundraising and for continuing to

good of the school and each other

supported the PTA and its events to

develop and play an important role in

– a galvanised team of individuals

make it both a social and financial

the school community.

willing to offer their time and support

success. And very importantly, a massive thank you to all the students

to the cause.

Thank you everyone and now the great part to be able to confirm we

Rachel will certainly be missed but

will donate £17,500 to the school for

we wish her all the best in her future

the Computer Science Room. With

endeavours safe in the knowledge

£15,000 carried forward from last

that the PTA can build from this

years fundraising, we have a further

fantastic platform which she has

I would also like to express my

£22,500 to give to the school. I wish

meticulously crafted over the past six

thanks to Glen Dallas for all his

everyone at AGS a successful year

years. We now welcome Kate Locke

support as the liaison between the

ahead and look forward to hearing

as Chairman and we look forward to

PTA and school; to Mark Sturgeon for

what new projects future fundraising

working with her on a variety of new

his ongoing support; all the teaching

will be used for and attending rather

ideas in and around the established

staff involved with our events and

than organising events!

events. Thank you Rachel!

Mrs R Gate

Mr G Dallas

for their help at all our events, from playing in the bands to washing up glasses until 1.00 am in the morning.

We couldn’t do it without you.

Alison Cox and the Development office. Also, Martin and Khuram, the caretakers for all their hard work at all our events, all the office staff for all their help and support and the IT staff for all their help and guidance.

As you all know, I am standing down after 6 years as Chair and one year as Vice Chair and I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for all your support it really has been a team effort. I now hand the reins over to Kate Locke, who I know will do a fantastic job. I know the school really appreciates everything we do and I would like to ask all of you to give Kate the same support you have given me to ensure the success of this PTA, which we have grown over the last 6 years. It has been a real pleasure to work with you all and I wish you all the best for the future.

Rachel Gate On behalf of the school I would like to thank Rachel for all she has accomplished as Chairman of the PTA for the past six years, not forgetting the one year as vice-chair which was clearly excellent training for the period that followed! Rachel has worked tirelessly over the years to ensure that the PTA could be built into the fundraising powerhouse it is today allowing the school to fund and complete projects which just would not be possible without the generous financial donations from parents and others via the programme of events and activities. But more than that Rachel has ensured that the PTA is

I think we all deserve a huge pat on

a community primarily of parents and

the back for having a very successful

students who work together for the

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SCHOOL DEVELOPMENT & There were many successes and developments during the summer period 2016 and it was an exciting start to the academic year as we were welcomed back to three important changes to the physical environment which ensured a positive impact on learning and teaching across the school. The new Professor William Mead Library opened to students at the beginning of term.

Located in the Headmaster’s quad, the new library will be the heartbeat of the School providing reading, study and learning space for every student. After a successful ‘Inspiring Science’ fundraising campaign, the refurbishment of the physics and chemistry laboratories was completed. The completion of this project transformed the learning in science and provided five innovative laboratories each for biology, chemistry and physics. Finally, the refurbishment and remodelling of the Sixth Form Centre was complete. This facility now provides a University style environment for our students with The Common Room and patio area as a social space, a study room for up to 40 students downstairs and a learning

building and updating and creating new preparation rooms, staff areas and the lecture theatre.

We were delighted to be able to share the news in September that, less than a year from the public launch, we had hit our fundraising target for the Inspiring Science Campaign. It was with our sincerest thanks to our parents, alumni and friends, and a number of trusts and grants; we received a total of £500,000 in gifts and pledges.

The transformation of 13 vintage, disparate science laboratories into 15 modern laboratories fully equipped to provide the finest science teaching was the most significant refurbishment project the School had undertaken in modern times. In total £2.3 million had been raised over six years, which had been broken down into seven distinct phases. Not only had the old laboratories been completely refurbished but the project included building and fitting an entire new Biology building, replacing the roof on the current Science

centre upstairs for 140 students.

Our OA community continues to thrive with over 1800 old boys now ‘registered’ as part of the OA community and a further 1880 old boys connected to the School through LinkedIn. The Development Office also regularly uses other media such as Twitter and Facebook to communicate with our now thriving OA community.

At Senior Prize Giving in September, we were delighted to welcome back as our guest speaker Mr Charlie Bush, retired Headmaster of Oundle School and former mathematics teacher at AGS from 1975 to 1978. Charlie reminisced about the School in years gone by and extolled the virtues of starting his career at AGS. He left the students, staff and parents with a ten-point plan for the future, which included; maintaining integrity, remembering that all Deputy Heads are fearsome,

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ALUMNI RELATIONS always doing your best within the rules, understanding that times will be tough but to maintain your resilience and to be proud of your achievements and be proud of AGS.

The traditional curtain raiser to the AGS 1st XI Football Team’s competitive season was a match against the Old Aylesburians, which was held at the very beginning of the school year. The game was undoubtedly competitive, but played in a great spirit with the current 1st XI winning 4-0. We are very grateful to the OAs for coming back to play against the next generation of AGS Senior players.

adjudicated by Stefano Imbriano (Phillips ’09). Stefano is currently adviser to the Home Secretary, he graduated from Leeds University with a degree in English and began working in the civil service for the Department of Health and subsequently in the Home Office working for Theresa May before the appointment of Amber Rudd to the role.

At the end of September we were extremely privileged and honoured to welcome Professor Lord Robert Winston to the School when he spoke to 400 guests, including parents, OAs and students, with an intellectually stimulating lecture on the subject of genetics.

as our guest of honour, and he is now a firm supporter of the School! The official opening was an extremely special occasion both in the School’s calendar and actually in the history of our School. It was a milestone marking the end of a successful fundraising campaign and refurbishment project, as well as an absolute reflection of the generosity of the Aylesbury Grammar School community that we had been able to complete the transformation of the Science facilities.

In October OAs who joined the school in 1959 visited for tours and afternoon tea. Jeff Lemon (Ridley ’66) helped to organise the wellattended event, with many OAs returning to AGS for the first time and reminiscing about their school days. Two former members of staff, Brian Roberts and Arthur Taylor, also attended.

Back row left to right: Jake Wilson, Matt Robinson, Matt Glover, Joel Hopkins, Jake Appleton (Captain), Ed Richards, Harry Gollins, Ed Morton Front row left to right: Alex Bharadwaj, Liam King, Jordan Davis, Neel Slatter, Tom Flint Our annual Senior Public Speaking Competition held in September was

Later in the term nearly 200 of the 385 benefactors of the Science Campaign enjoyed the official opening of the newly refurbished Science Centre. We once again welcomed Professor Lord Winston

Left to right: Roger Davey (Denson), Brian Roberts (former Director of Sport), Arthur Taylor (former History teacher), Jeff Lemon (Ridley), Fred

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SCHOOL DEVELOPMENT & Taylor (Hampden), Keith Bowden

the stunning surroundings of the

brought back memories of many

(Ridley), Alex Wilkie (Hampden),

Savile Club in Mayfair. Another well-

happy days. The school is impressive

Will Silsby (Denson), John Birtwell

attended event in a central location

and we wish it every success in the

(Phillips), Steve Marsh (Ridley),

encouraged our London based OAs

future. We hope that when today’s

Steve Allen (Phillips), Martyn Sheriff

to reconnect to the School.

boys leave they too take with them

(Denson), Ian Ashworth (Phillips),

enduring memories and lasting

Godfrey Small (Ridley), Ken Packer

friendships.’

(Denson), Ian James (Denson), Richard Cave (Hampden) and Mike Griffin (Denson).

Guy Miscampbell (Phillips ‘09) came back in November to talk to our Sixth Form Politics students as part of our curriculum enrichment

Later in the month Jules Buckley

programme. Guy is a public policy

(Ridley ‘98) returned to adjudicate

professional with experience working

House Music. Jules is a composer,

in legislatures, think tanks, and

orchestrator and conductor and well

This academic year saw the

governments across three different

known as a musical pioneer who is

introduction of our well received

known for pushing the boundaries

Medical Society that included

of contemporary genres. Jules

thought provoking talks by

countries. He is now a Senior Consultant at WPI Economics.

made a tremendous impact on the

Matthew Handy (Ridley ’06),

several of our OA medics. James

night and has since offered all sorts

a Manager at Pricewaterhouse

Herdman (Phillips ‘12) kicked off

of generous opportunities for our

Coopers, talked to our Year 12

the programme and provided some

musicians going forward.

great insights into the application

students at part of PwC’s Leavers

process and life as a medical

Programme at the end of the autumn

student. He is currently a medical

term. Matt hosted an interactive

student (taking a year out to study a

session giving an overview of

BSc in Physiology) at King’s College

his career and PwC, followed by

London.

employability skills and covered the opportunities for both Graduate and School leaver level at the consultancy.

In March we hosted our 1969 Leavers for Afternoon Tea. The group included Peter Hearn (Ridley), Geoff Gurney (Ridley), Richard Brock (Denson), John Harding (Hampden),

Ashley Byrne (Lee ‘96) spoke about

Ian Ramage (Denson) and Theo

his role as the Managing Director

Labuda (Ridley) and their wives and

of Byrnes Dental Lab. Ashley is a

Our thanks to Stephen Fitzjohn

their return to Aylesbury was just one

Clinical Dental Technician and he

(Hampden ‘80) who hosted our OA

of their many get-togethers over the

runs one of Europe’s leading dental

Drinks Reception in February in

years. Theo wrote ‘The afternoon

labs employing 22 people, based in

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ALUMNI RELATIONS Oxfordshire. He lectures on the topic

Will Sapwell (Lee ‘09), a doctor

ask him to ‘officially open’ our

of technical dentistry all over the

in Sheffield and Deputy Chair of

refurbished Sixth Centre. Theo has

world and uses innovative technology

the Junior Doctors’ Committee of

an impressive biography to date and

the British Medical Association,

is best known for his roles as Jed

returned to share his knowledge and

Harper in Bedlam, Walter William

expertise.

Clark, Jr. in the crime drama Golden

like 3D printing, milling and selective laser melting in healthcare.

Boy, Tobias “Four” Eaton in the film adaptations of The Divergent Series, and David in Underworld: Awakening and Underworld: Blood Wars. Theo studied Philosophy at Nottingham University and then went on to Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. Our sincerest thanks to Rob Warner for

Rakesh Mistry (Ridley ‘10) gave an

Mark Gill (Lee ‘01) delivered an

honest and knowledgeable talk on

hosting a lively and interactive Q & A

interesting talk on what he wished he

training and life as a junior doctor.

session with Theo.

knew when making career decisions.

Rakesh is a Foundation Year 1

Mark’s career and experience

Doctor at Leeds University Teaching

provided a different perspective

Hospitals.

for our students as he studied to become a Veterinary Surgeon at the Royal Veterinary College and after a spell in practice, he moved into a management role. He is currently Head of Operations for Goddard

Towards the end of the spring term

Veterinary Group.

we held a Decade Reunion Drinks evening for our 2001-2010 leavers and the following month a similar event for the 1971-1980 leavers. .

OA Andrew Jones (Hampden ‘00), a

A special thank you to the former

consultant in paediatric and neonatal

teachers (and Headmaster) who

intensive care at Great Ormond

returned for the April event and

Street Hospital for children, spoke

included KD Smith, Derek Jones, Peter Larkham, Arthur Taylor, Tim

about his specialist field and provided

One of our objectives, as our OA

great insight from someone further

community evolves, is to research

Hancock, John Brown, Brian Roberts

along in their career.

and reconnect with new OAs and

and David Rutterford.

in March we were rewarded with a visit from Theo James (Paterson ‘03), Actor and Musician. Theo took the time to share his experience and insights with our drama and communications and culture students at AGS and AHS and at the same time, we took the opportunity to

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SCHOOL DEVELOPMENT & This academic year saw the launch of our Inspirational Speakers Programme, which was launched

by Richard Moat (Denson ‘83), who shared his brilliant talk ‘What I Didn’t Realise I Learnt at School’.

Emotional well-being was at the heart of his talk.

Scott Davies (Phillips ‘04) gave a talk about the difficulties he faced during his professional football career and his open and honest talk about addiction to gambling.

The Programme was created to offer our Sixth Form students a series of short lectures followed by a Q & A session in areas that are relevant and of interest to them.

This year, the series of lectures has included inspiring topics and building awareness of how the world works and our Old Aylesburians have played a significant part.

Matthew Dickinson (Denson ‘05) talked about the opportunities for learning, living and working abroad and Carl Austin (Denson ’06) about his career path post AGS and his expertise on tax, pensions and finance and “coping with the unexpected.”

David Evans (Lee ‘86) returned to talk about the broad subject of recruitment and preparation for the workplace. David is a Director of a small consultancy and has over 15 years’ experience in training,

recruitment and development, working with major UK and European clients.

The ISP was concluded for this academic year by Andrew Bernard (Denson ‘85). He shared an important health issue with our students alongside other important life lessons and his overriding message was ‘Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% what you do about it’.

The weather was kinder to us this for year for the OA Cricket Match at the end of June. The OA cricket team achieved a comprehensive victory over the AGS 1st XI in the annual OA match. The OAs batted first in overcast conditions and Will Sutcliffe (22) and Alex Walters (35) put on 38 for the first wicket. Coming in at Number 3, Josh Thompson top scored with 39 runs. The OAs therefore tabled a competitive 147-9 from their reduced allocation of 26 overs.

Faced with miserly bowling and sharp fielding the 1st XI reply never got going. At one stage the hosts

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ALUMNI RELATIONS were 9-6, with only Tom Faulkner reaching double figures. AGS were eventually bowled out for 37.

Particularly impressive amongst the bowlers were Jack Thorn (four wickets for 8 runs off 5 overs) and Hamish Sim (3 wickets for 5 runs off 4 overs). Many thanks to all the OAs for coming back to play, to Mr Rooney and Mr Burden for umpiring and to Mr Barrie for organising.

At the end of June we welcomed invited guests and friends of the late Professor William Mead and the Trustees of the Aylesbury Grammar School Foundation for the ‘official’ Opening of the Library. The relocation of the new library, freeing up valuable Sixth Form space, was only made possible by the generous legacy donation made by the Professor to the Aylesbury Grammar School Foundation.

In the Headmaster’s words “Professor W.R. Mead was so much more than an Old Aylesburian.

In fact, no former student has contributed more to the School than Bill in the 88 years of his relationship with the School. First, from 1927 as a student, then as an active member of the Old Aylesburian Association, and finally from 1981, as a long standing School and Foundation Governor, including service as the Chair of both bodies.

On the fourth centenary of the School, in 1998, his ‘History of Aylesbury Grammar School’ was published after many months of research and countless interviews with past and present members of the School. This achievement was itself of great service to the School.”

Bill Mead was one of the School’s most loyal former students, heavily involved in all the activities of the Old Aylesburian Association. He served on the committee of the Association for many years and was President in 1973, 1974 and 1998.

In fact Bill continued his involvement with the School until very late on in his life attending School events and even taking the time to write to the Headmaster personally when he was appointed.

The Memories Afternoon Tea in early July welcomed a number of OAs (male and female) back to the School after many decades. Going back as far as 1934, the afternoon provided a great opportunity for our former students to see how the School has changed. Our guests enjoyed some time reminiscing about their school days and tours of the School and very kindly passed back some wonderful archive material.

Richard Dorrance (Hampden ‘66) returned to school to adjudicate Junior Public Speaking in July.

Richard is now retired and the Chair of TQUK, a start up examination board, and a Board Member of the National Extension College.

The summer term is always busy with OA sporting events; we held our annual Sports Day on the 14th July, which incorporates Basketball, Football and Squash.

In basketball, the OAs were victorious 60-52. In squash, the AGS Squash Team were victorious 4 matches to 3. In football, the staff provided two teams in a six team league format. Despite only having eight players, the two staff teams came second (joint with three others) and sixth. The winners were Luke Starr’s team with nine points.

2017 OA Football Tournament Winning team: Top row, left to right: Luke Starr, Harmy Mattu, Jack Pearce. Bottom row, left to right: Kit Brunswick, James Gamble and Greg Duncan.

Mrs A Cox

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PRIZE WINNERS Junior Prize Giving 2017 Year 7 - Harding Subject Prizes Art & Design: Classical Studies: Computing: Design Technology: English: History: French: Geography:

Aarya Poondy Felix Woodhouse-Cohen David Wusu Harry Wyatt Charles Edwards Charles Edwards Ethan Sithamparapillai Callum Kiteley

German: Toby Webster Mathematics: John Davie Music: Sam Pyefinch PE: Harry Wilson Religious Studies: Tony Alocious Science: Abdulrafah Taimoor Spanish: Joseph Dimino

Head of Year 7 Award for Achievement Ankit Arun, Tom Kirby, Christian Lynch, John MacGregor

Year 8 - Harding Subject Prizes Art & Design: Computing: Design Technology: Drama: Science: English: German: French:

Tunmishe Coker Qasim Sheikh Shaurya Singh Shantanu Kale Shantanu Kale William Duling William Duling Jude Page

Geography: History: Latin: Mathematics: Music: PE: Religious Studies: Spanish:

Max Dolphin Jai Horwood Alexander Comben Shonit Sharma Marcus Birch Ollie Carolin Torsten Hansen Ashwin Aggarwal

Head of Year 8 Award for Achievement Rhys Hanling, Sam Kearney, Armin Raad, William Ratcliffe

Year 9 - Harding Subject Prizes Art & Design: Biology: Computing: Chemistry: Spanish: Design Technology: Drama: English: French:

Owen Billings Karan Elangovan Karan Elangovan Sachin Patel Sachin Patel Sam Packer Harvey Bell Oliver Tolson Boxall Robbie Lawns

Geography: Latin: German: History: Mathematics: Music: PE: Physics: Religious Studies:

Head of Year 9 Award for Achievement James Farmborough, Tom Kemp, Joe Maggs, Joseph Stembridge-King

The Ben Pickard Trophy for Excellence Jorell Pascal

The Mike Griffin Cup Yifan Wong

The Glenn Turnell Cup Ryan Connor

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The Aylesburian 2016/2017

Edward Maher Edward Maher Reece Wilcock Aidan Manley Alex Butler Yifan Wong Joel Good Jeffrey Tan Shehroz Jehandad

Senior Prize Giving 2017 Year 10 - Harding Subject Prizes Ancient History: Geology: Art & Design: Biology: Chemistry: Business Studies: Computing: Design Technology: Drama: Economics: English:

George Ramsey George Ramsey Zak Griffith Dylan Cleveland Dylan Cleveland Nikhil Aggarwal Thomas Moyse Ben Abrams Ben Parkinson Anish Kumar Dylan Holmes-Cowan

History: French: Latin: Geography: Spanish: German: Mathematics: Music: PE: Physics: Religious Studies:

Dylan Holmes-Cowan Theo Nze Theo Nze Max Ramsey Max Ramsey Zach Roberts Fitz Steger-Lewis Tom O’Shea Ben Jacobs Zak Littler Shoheb Hassan

Head of Year Award for Achievement Shoheb Hassan, Herbie Lorimer, Haroon Raqib-Nisar, Schano Sepamalai

The Old Aylesburians’ Association Community Prize Tom Ward

The Ben Mckenzie Cup Ben Baars, Anish Kumar, Charlie Lane, Virag Makwana, Zach Roberts, Ben Sage, Harvey Wright

Year 11 - Harding Subject Prizes Ancient History: Art & Design: Biology: Mathematics: Business Studies: Spanish: Chemistry: Latin: Computing: Design Technology: Drama:

Callum Evans English: Jamieson Hunt German: Fred Phillips Economics: Fred Phillips French: Henry Bambrick Geography: Henry Bambrick Geology: Michael Roach History: Michael Roach Music: Richard Chappell PE: Raihaan Usman Physics: Joe Harrington

Sam Carter Sam Carter Caelen Coney Isaac MacDonald Matthew Bird Robert Preston Flynn Collins Romar Rivera James Richardson Dominic Histed

Head of Year Award for Achievement Finn Bell

Harvey Johnston

Milan Laljani

Tom Lewis

The Richard Bennett Prize Charlie Collie

The Old Aylesburians’ Association Community Prize Jude Cornish

The Harry Hewitt Memorial Shield Timothy Wheeler

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PRIZE WINNERS Year 12 - Harding Subject Prizes Ancient History: Art & Design: Biology: Business Studies: Chemistry: Computing: Design Technology: Drama: Economics: English Language & Literature: Politics: Spanish:

Matt Eaton Oli Howard Dylan Kanapathipillai Harry Poll William Hindmarsh Monish Thirukkumaran Chris Atkinson Tom Robertson Tanmay Mahesh Patrick Walters Karsten Allers Tony Carlile

French: Physics: Geography: PE: German: History: Latin: Mathematics: Further Mathematics: Music: English Literature: EPQ:

Max Hutt Max Hutt Luke Priestley Luke Priestley Sam Wright Huw Richards Tom Cay Tom Cay Michael Witham Samuel Horrox Tom Wells Lee Saunders

Head of Year Award for Achievement Matt Cato, Tristan Coe, Peter King, Max Rees

The Keith Smith Prize Marc Grant

The Esri Prizes for Young Enterprise Charlie Dunne, Rex Germanier Torrado, Oli Howard, Kym Ibragimov, Tanmay Mahesh, Tom Wells

The Stephen Shipperley Prize for Enterprise and Innovation Chris Atkinson, Toby Higgs, Max Hutt, Viraj Shah, Sam Wright, George Wyatt

The Disraeli Prize for Debating Tom Cay and Tanmay Mahesh

Year 13 - Harding Subject Prizes Ancient History Finlay Shedd Design Technology: Art & Design: James Grohmann Drama: Communication & Culture: Matt Feurtado

The PJ Larkham Prize for Theatre Chris Grimwood and Mike Grimwood (award to both)

The John Prodger Cup for Sporting Achievement Charlie Smith

The Thomson Cup for Sportsmanship Adam Woodage

The Beattie Cup for Musicianship Michael Ng

The Ale Lowndes Knight Award for Endeavour Zach Horton and Zhuoran Yang

The Aylesbury Vale U3A Prize for Community Involvement Michael Rousell

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Nicholas Worthy Jai Ghosh

Denson Prizes for Excellent A Level Results Jack Ainsworth Oli Brown Rory Burke Jonny Evans

Matt Feurtado Will Fisher Oscar Glenister James Grohmann

Saul Gunn Charles Howley Satoki Ito Will Knatchbull

Dillon Patel Alex Piercy Thomas Stowe Ethan West

Foundation Governors’ Prizes For Outstanding A Level Results Daniel Barlow Oliver Binns Rory Brooks Joel Bullivant Kiran Chater Rory De Mellow Callum Eley Matthew Ferone Matthew Graham

Ben Haigh Joe Kearney Sunkyu Han Adi Kotian George Harnett Sanjeev Ladhar Adam Harwood Daniel Lindars Ollie Hawken Chris Louis Luke Hinton Jonathan Lu Tom Huntington Declan Miller Kunal Jadhav Andrew Moody Joshua Jamieson

Michael Ng Matthew Redmond Ayush Rodrigues Ollie Sampson Scott Sellars James Sterry Alex Taylor Joshua Walley

Paterson Prizes Deputy Head Boys: Joe Kearney and Michael Ng Head Boy: Oli Brown

Donated Subject Prizes Glover Prize for The Arts Dame Kathleen Raven Prize for Biology James Bowe Prize for Business Studies Raven Prize for Chemistry Belger Prize for Further Mathematics Fleet Prize for Computing Chiltern Hundreds Prize for EPQ Webb Prize for Economics Deeming Prize for English Brooker Prize for German MacLeod Prize for English Language and Literature Furley Prize for French John Hunt Prize for Spanish Lloyd-Jones Prize for Geography Owen Prize for History Ferris Prize for Latin Brown Prize for Mathematical Physics Helliwell Prize for Science Miscampbell Prize for Mathematics Professor Mead Prize for Music Mackrill Prize for PE Jones Prize for Politics Furneaux Prize for Physics

Joe Kearney Matthew Graham Alexe Jugaru Daniel Barlow Daniel Barlow Thomas Stowe Thomas Stowe Will Knatchbull Joshua Jamieson Joshua Jamieson Luke Hinton Oliver Binns Oliver Binns Will Fisher Chris Louis Charles Howley Michael Ng Michael Ng Alex Taylor Wilfie Williams Sam Nicholson Rory Brooks Kiran Chater

Aylesbury Grammar School would like to thank The William Harding’s Charity for their generous support in funding the Harding Prizes

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