The Cantuarian 2020

The Cantuarian 2020

CANTUARIAN | 2020

1

2

CANTUARIAN | 2020

CONTENTS The Captain’s Speech Ben Helme 6 Ten Years Hannah Edwards 10 Watch the Pies Fede Elias 14 On the Water Natasha Southorn 16 Sweet Singing in the Quire David Newsholme 18 No Frills Victoria Outram 22 White Elena Merican 28 Viennese Whirl David Perkins 30 Like a Fine Wine Oscar Marsh 34 Yes, Matron Purples 42 Top Billing Rebekah Beattie 44 King’s International Bill Prior 48 You are a Girl! Téa Sand 54 Shelter Island James Durran 56 Out of Office Geography Department 58 Dreaming Spire Matt McArdle 60 War & Peace Julian Karolyi 64 Marathon Man Mike Mawby 68 The Promised Land Ella Rowe 71 My Waterloo Mark Taylor 72 England, England Shells 76 Showtime Zara Fish 80 Curtain Up! Daisy Ledger 81 Game On! Greg Hunter 82 The One True Good Philosophy 84 How to Succeed Dr. Jolyon Martin 92 My Music Roberta Mak, Arwen Withey-Harrison, Toby Davies 94 The IT Crowd Robin Falcon 100 Follow the Money Toby Duthie 104 Lost Grace Stephens-Spada 108 Speak English Carmen Wu 112 The Organ Luke Bartlett 116 Tablets of Stone Harry Hughes 118 What I Missed Purples 122 Letters from OKS OKS 124 Valete 127

CONTRIBUTORS Editor Anthony Lyons Photographer Matt McArdle Designer Cobweb Creative Archivist Peter Henderson Two Wise Men Ian McEwen & Peter Roberts Cobweb Creative yvonne@cobwebcreative.org www.cobwebcreative.org Matt McArdle Photography mattmcardle13@mac.com The Cantuarian info@cantuarian.co.uk

CANTUARIAN | 2020

3

editorial Sweet Singing in the Quire (Page 18)

T

his year we owe The Cantuarian to a number their extraordinary range of talents and interests, of heroic individuals who were probably whether it be playing the harp, making awardtoo busy just surviving you-know-what to winning wine or cooking the perfect tortilla. report about their busy lives, but they answered our call anyway and burnt the midnight oil. The Reading about their music-making, travel result is another medley of lively pieces about life escapades, holiday hobbies, family histories, at King’s, and we really hope there is intellectual adventures, sporting something inspiring for all of you in achievements, linguistic flair, theatrical ‘We are hugely the pages that follow. aplomb, dogged professionalism, skill at grateful to the capitalising on serendipity and generally First of all, thanks and living life to the full, is a truly humbling pupils, colleagues congratulations to Peter Roberts, and exhilarating experience. and parents who who has just completed his tenth helped us in our year as Headmaster. He talks openly quest to capture the In our last Cantuarian a very fine man about his colourful odyssey with wrote a very fine piece about a great spirit of King’s.’ our very own Emily Maitlis, Hannah addition to the architectural treasures at Edwards. Thanks also to members King’s. Bill Baxendale and The Malthouse of the Senior Leadership Team, Luke Bartlett and were meant for each other, and the verbal tour he Greg Hunter, who took time out of their pressing gave us of his beloved theatre was a fitting tribute schedules to share their passion for music and to his true genius and kind character. So it was sport, and to the equally busy Bursar, who writes with deep sadness that we learnt of his passing, about his military ancestors. It’s also great to see and we cannot thank Rebekah Beattie enough for OKS from as far back as 1948 writing letters to the writing about her dear friend and colleague with magazine with anecdotes and observations. Thank gentle words that Bill himself surely would have you all. Please keep them coming! applauded.

We are also, of course, hugely grateful to pupils, colleagues and parents who helped us in our quest to capture the spirit of King’s by sharing

Top Billing (Page 44) 4

CANTUARIAN | 2020

Ten Years (Page 8) My Music (Page 94)

Anthony Lyons Editor The Cantuarian

No Frills (Page 22)

War & Peace (Page 64)

King’s International (Page 48) CANTUARIAN | 2020

5

THE

CAptain’s

by Ben Helme

L

Speech

adies and Gentlemen

During the Second World War, the school was evacuated, and the pupils moved to Carlyon Bay in Cornwall so that their educations could continue without compromising their safety. In 2020, we evacuated again, to Microsoft Teams.

I am genuinely proud to be a part of a community which has adapted to the recent challenges with such optimism. Both the teachers and the students have embraced the virtual world and it has been great to have had a continued engagement with the school through online classes. The success of Virtually King’s Week shows an enduring sense of positivity and community within the school, although I will never quite get used to receiving a school email with ‘tiktok’ in the subject line. It could only have been achieved with the engagement of the pupils and I find it heartening that even in our current situations people are taking the time to spread some joy.

Our school has stood since 597AD and with all of the different eras and challenges it has faced this is far from the first time that it has had to adapt. It has survived bombings, conflicts and now Covid. You don’t become the oldest continuously ‘Our school has stood running school if you’re easily derailed. Whilst the institution stands firm, I know that many of us feel since 597AD and with overwhelmed in the face of such global upheaval. We will never forget the trials of 2020. Moving online has all of the different eras and challenges it has been a huge change for us all and although we miss seeing each other in person, the adjustment to this faced this is far from system has been admirable.

the first time that it has had to adapt.’

For me, that is what the last few months have shown – our ability to adapt and to be resilient; globally, individually and as a school community. The philosopher Heraclitus supposedly said that the only thing that is constant is change. I personally have changed a lot over my time at King’s, having joined as a five-foot soprano, but have never before experienced such shifts as those brought about by 2020. If you had told me last September that over the following months there would have been an escalation in global tensions, there would be no public exams, and that Galpin’s would yet again fail to place in House Song, I’m not sure I would have believed you. But the unimaginable can happen and we have to adapt.

6

CANTUARIAN | 2019 2020

This energy does not seem forced, but to have stemmed from a place of maintained hope.

There is an Albert Camus quotation which I think demonstrates this: ‘In the depths of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.’ To me, this is about facing external challenges and discovering resilience.

I would like to thank The Headman, The Senior Leadership Team and the Chaplains for the direction that they give. I have been continually struck by the level of care that goes into the running of the school and it is no mean feat for The Headman to know every student at an individual level!

I hope that people took advantage of the opportunity to thank staff last week. There have been so many teachers who have helped and inspired me, personally, and I think that it is worth taking a minute to reflect, and to share your gratitude. The support staff are also integral to the school’s success. So, to the cleaning staff, the caterers,

‘I have been continually struck by the level of care that goes into the running of the school and it is no mean feat for The Headman to know every student at an individual level!’

the matrons, gardeners, and everyone else who has made King’s an uniquely warm and beautiful place to live as well as to study, thank you.

We have been lucky to have such excellent Vice Captains in Flo and Gabe; their proactivity and insight have been indispensable. To all of the Purples, you have been wonderful; thank you for your hard work. Where the robe could have been perceived as a reward, thank you for viewing it as a commitment.

As the current 6a’s move from being pupils to OKS, our thoughts turn back to the future. It remains uncertain whether we will immediately be able to continue with our plans for further education or gap years but, whilst the year ahead for us is uncertain, the future is looking bright. With such academic potential, ambition and conviction, this isn’t just a year-group that will experience change, but action it. I look forward to our Commemoration Day next June, so that we can regroup and catch up.

So now, as we move into our future, and the school moves into its, I would like to follow in the tradition of handing over my gown. Ideally, I would be able to do this in person, but this seems the next best thing. Daisy, having chatted with you for a couple of hours yesterday, I know that the school couldn’t be in better hands. I just hope that you and your fellow purples enjoy it as much as we have. This [holding gown] is yours; I will get it to you somehow!

My parting piece of wisdom, if I have any, is to appreciate your teachers and friends. If there is anything that I have come to realise over the past few months, it is that I have found myself missing the people at King’s the most and have relied heavily on staying in contact online.

I have known some of my friends here since I ‘Just as the evacuees was four years old and returned to King’s after the I hope that the bonds war, so will we be restored that I have made will last a lifetime. I will miss to the campus once again.’ letting off some steam in debating and spending the evenings speaking with the tutors and the boys in house. But most of all, I will miss getting up and going to lessons and just seeing people that I had seen the day before and feeling that I was amongst friends. Change is inevitable, but we can never really predict when it will occur. If any good is to come of the last few months, it may be the realisation of how much we mean to and miss each other. It is clearer than ever that we need to cherish the bonds we have and take every opportunity that comes our way.

Just as the evacuees returned to King’s after the war, so will we be restored to the campus once again. Be it a return to normal lessons, or a final goodbye for the 6a’s, it will be a great day when we come back to King’s. I look forward to hopefully seeing you all soon. Be safe, and I hope you have a great summer.

‘If there is anything that I have come to realise over the past few months, it is that I have found myself missing the people at King’s the most.’

CANTUARIAN | 2020

7

8

CANTUARIAN | 2020

n e T

s r a e Y I

Hannah Edwards (6a) interviews Headmaster Peter Roberts.

’d like to start at the beginning and take you back 10 years. You’re coming into The King’s School, Canterbury as the new Headmaster, such a special school with so much history. What did it feel like?

Well, it was very much as expected when I arrived, as I’m sure is true for new pupils at King’s. You feel overwhelmed by the beauty of the place, but also buoyed by the sense of community and how encouraging everyone is. You are welcomed as part of the community when you begin, and that sense of community and belonging was there from day one.

faces and I can see that sense of togetherness. For me those are the lynchpins behind what makes King’s absolutely different and for me as exciting as it was 10 years ago. I wanted to come into King’s and give it a sense of confidence about what I think everyone would agree are its special qualities. I see my role as constantly testing it, and sometimes saying if there’s something that we need to go back to and address if it’s not quite right. Also, to encourage people not to stay in the conventional paths, not just to do academics. That’s why I came! The school had undergone a difficult patch, and it was a time when the school needed that sense of confidence restored.

Why did you come to King’s?

First, because of the sense that it was a school in King’s has a unique culture. How do you as which people genuinely believed. Not just the pupils, Headmaster shape that culture and what do you but the staff, the alumnae, and the community think creates it? of King’s as a whole (that includes the Cathedral Warmth and friendliness. People aren’t scared to Foundation). Everyone believed that the idea behind say they have a love for the place. People watching the place was that you are sharing your gifts with out for each other. Not only being interested in what each other – it didn’t matter what they were, but would be seen as the conventional things you would people would appreciate them. That was certainly get out of a school. That I think is what its culture is something I’d found out about King’s about. For example, we were lucky before I’d arrived and I was very keen ‘The strand which I was enough to get famous cricketer to see if that was true on the ground. really interested in and I David Gower to come back, and lo I would say that that is a really strong have focused on was what and behold what was he interested aspect of the school and something in talking about? It was that he that makes it stand out from other makes King’s special, and really loved playing clarinet and makes it stand out from singing at school. Of course, he schools. other schools.’ played cricket at Birley’s and was a Did you have a brief when you came very gifted squash player, and you in? Was it about continuity or was there something would expect that, but he said that for his second you wanted to focus on? career what King’s taught him was how to sing and The strand which I was really interested in and I have perform. Even being second clarinet in the wind focused on was what makes King’s special, and makes band was really useful so that he wasn’t fazed when it stand out from other schools. This strand, which I he had to perform before the cameras!  saw as really important to my brief, was to make sure it was true that - whatever your gifts were - there was a sense of equal appreciation for them, that the kudos was the same whether you’re interested in astronomy, or being a kite surfer, or singing in a Baroque group…or nothing to do with school, but at the weekend you’re really into your cooking. Across the 10 years I always weigh it up to see if it’s still true, particularly in Shirley Hall when someone comes up on stage. Whatever it’s for I always look at people’s

CANTUARIAN | 2020

9

Having talked about the breadth of opportunities for King’s pupils, is there anything new that King’s has let you do?

I believe that one of the strands that has got stronger over the years I’ve known King’s is this concept of creativity. It’s thanks to the encouragement of the wonderful staff at King’s. For example, the way the Art Department has expanded from fine art to take on sculpture, to go into the King’s Studio and get into photography and ceramics, and into the digital side as well. I think that’s coming initially from the interests of the teachers, but then that attracts pupils to come to King’s for whom that’s their great thing. It’s always been a bit like that, I’m sure, as when we opened the new King’s Studio (which was a pub!) Edmund de Waal, the famous ceramicist, came back. He said he wasn’t very happy during his start at King’s but was

‘...although I’ve always been interested in things connecting creativity, I think what you notice as an adult here is that it’s wonderfully nurturing.’ saved by the ceramicists taking him on and teaching him to throw pots as a Remove. From then on someone quite shy and awkward found confidence as King’s encouraged him to be creative. From my own perspective, although I’ve always been interested in things connecting creativity, I think what you notice as an adult here is that it’s wonderfully nurturing.

In terms of whatever my gifts are, King’s has given me two things – one is to give me a greater sense of confidence in my own gifts, but also that you do feel that you want to pick up new things. I know I

‘I’ll always believe that the classroom is not the only important part of your education.’

10

CANTUARIAN | 2020

‘...the Cathedral is very important for that sense of centring in our lives when we come back for each term.’ can speak for Marie, my wife, as well; she’s a harpist who’s taken up piano at King’s. She’s really extended her interest in embroidering textiles, and she’s done an MA in Philosophy. I think that shows you how it’s a very stimulating environment. I’ll always believe that the classroom is not the only important part of your education. It’s the conversations and the stimulations which come outside of the classroom too. It’s something that’s always been important to King’s, but I hope it’s seen as a legacy that King’s is bold enough as a school to say that the things you do outside the classroom are at least half of what you do at King’s.

If you were at King’s, which house would you be in?

I’m often asked this, and across the 10 years I’ve always visited a house each week. Like the late Bruce Forsyth, my gag when I visit a house each week is Just like the King’s pupils you live in Canterbury. that I always say ‘You’re my favourite!’ The truth is How have you found your 10 years in Canterbury, that the welcome you get means you feel you really in both the city and community? are welcomed into their home. And I feel very much like a boarder you only have to spend two minutes when I come back. You come ‘‘...my gag when I visit a at King’s to understand that everyone back to something that feels house each week is that believes their house is the best house. like a home. I feel the Cathedral I always say ‘You’re my is very important for that sense Have you got any favourite King’s favourite!’ The truth is that of centring in our lives when we traditions? the welcome you get means come back for each term. I love I love the way that if it’s Tradescant they going to the 8 o’clock service you feel you really are ring the bell before evening meeting in on a Sunday, down in the crypt, welcomed into their home.’’ and the weekly Sunday service, the chapel, that when I go to Bailey the girls have always made some biscuits which I’m sure to teenagers and in Carlyon we’ll meet in Chums for breakfast. Each feels like a pain, gives you these rhythms and house has its own tradition, which may only be five routines when you’re leading such a busy life. minutes long but they’ll say it’ll last for years.

There is quite a remarkable sense of community centred around the spiritual life of the Cathedral, which does date across the whole history, which strikes you when you come home.

Have you found any hidden gems in Canterbury?

Totally. My Kurdish barber in Burgate, Hama. He’s someone I’ve known since I arrived and he’s always looked after me! Many of the people I meet on the dogwalks I’ve got to know; it’s a remarkable city as it has the intimate feel of a village even though it’s much bigger. My special places are all the cafés and sushi bars. I love sushi. I’m a real fish nut! 

CANTUARIAN | 2020

11

When you were younger you attended Tiffin Boys’ School. How was your own school experience?

People find it hard to believe because I’m now so tall, but when I was in Shell I was the smallest boy in the year. I was a wicket keeper, and lo and behold our captain was actually the future England captain, Alec Stewart. Very generously he said, ‘No, you keep wicket’ while we were playing at school. To be fair, he didn’t want to be bending down every day, as he was training a lot – but for me that was an abiding memory as an experience outside of the classroom.

What made you want to be a boarding school teacher?

As an undergraduate I was already working as a care assistant in a children’s home, so I knew I wanted to go into education from early on. I like the way at King’s that quite a few of the pupils go on to be teachers. As someone teaching medieval history then why go into a boarding school? I think the answer is that I do believe you learn just as much in terms of the conversations and tutorials which you have outside of lessons. My subject is difficult to teach within only traditional lessons, because you’ve got to tease out ideas from small archaeological fragments or texts. It is a bit like a detective puzzle, and it’s certainly true that I found it more rewarding teaching about the medieval period in a boarding context, where you can carry on these conversations outside of the classroom.

I agree. I think as a student you feel that King’s has almost the sense of a university.

What do you do if you have a difficult decision to make?

Well, it’s funny you should say that, because one of my most exhilarating I would always advise you to sleep on it. Don’t rush it; memories was at the end of my first year when Michael Morpurgo came back for take a measured approach. It’s only when you know in King’s week. He seized the purple gown off the Captain of School your conscience that you’ve made the at the time, and came out with the phrase, ‘I’d love to come back right decision that you should take it.

‘Michael Morpurgo to King’s in its modern form because it’s so much more exciting!’

If a really difficult thing happens – it’s said he felt that King’s a big school, so there will always be He said he felt that King’s today had a university way of doing things, but appropriate for the age group, which I thought was a today had a university these moments in individual people’s nice way of putting it. way of doing things, but lives – again I would emphasise the importance of the Cathedral as a space appropriate for the age where people can reflect.

Looking over the 10 years, how do you think King’s has changed? group, which I thought It’s got bigger. Has it got better? I think so. I think it’s got more momentum because of that. For example, having 5 or 6 schools Through both the good and bad times, was a nice way of coming to sports fixtures on a Saturday afternoon. Or how we’ve what has being Headmaster taught putting it.’ expanded into the International College. It’s one of the fun you? moments of my week when I go over there to see how they’re It’s taught me that what gets me getting on and meet staff and pupils. I like how – I think this is a very big change up in the morning is the day-to-day reactivity and – Junior King’s is now much more part of King’s, thanks to Mrs. Karolyi. engagement of the pupils. To use the metaphor of baking, you know that the leaven is already working Looking across all the years again, what’s been a difficult time, and what’s been with King’s pupils. It’s exciting because you’re just a real high point? encouraging the fermentation process. I’d pick that I think the difficult times have been in the pandemic. People are showing out: that you are important as a teacher and you are resilience, with King’s Education Online, but I need to be in a live school. You’ve making a difference, but you are only encouraging what got to see people’s faces and pick up on what they’re bringing to the discussion. is already happening within the pupils.

That’s been hard, particularly as it’s a very individual and social way that we do things. A high point would be the house song in Shirley Hall.

12

CANTUARIAN | 2020

Thinking about King’s students, what sort of person would you want an OKS to be like once they’re out into the world?

It’s a funny mixture of Miriam Lwanga, former head girl, who came back to talk about what it was like to be the first female Captain of School, and Ryan Mannering, a School House boy who was a tornado pilot.

Increasingly we hear discussions about the role of private schools, sometimes debates over whether they should exist, and I wondered how you respond to those kinds of discussions as Headmaster of King’s?

It depends whether King’s is genuinely committed to keep up what it’s done to be outward-looking and genuine in its response with the partnerships we’ve formed, and the projects we’ve been part of. They’ve given us a lot of pleasure, but also been humbling in that staff and pupils have been struck by how privileged our lives are, and how we should be aiming to give back while we’re here.

On some of the more difficult issues in our society, my view is that I want to give the broadest education to our students, so that when they leave King’s they will want to do all they can to change some of those things for the better. It’s the pupils who will be able to go out and change things that we can’t as a school.

What challenges do you think King’s faced 10 years ago, and what does it face in the future?

10 years ago I think the challenge was to give a sense of restored confidence. Now I think it’s about turning what could be seen as challenges into a series of opportunities.

Would that be your hope for King’s?

Definitely. Something like the science school project.

The pandemic has shown the importance of science and health and medicine. The transformation on the digital side – somewhat forced on us – will lead to a more exciting side of King’s going onwards, even though we will be live again. Let’s hope that King’s can be a reflection of the reopening of barriers and closed borders that the pandemic has brought, that post-Covid King’s is setting the example, that it’s about reaching out and making friendships across cultures and continents.

‘I want to give the broadest education to our students, so that when they leave King’s they will want to do all they can to change things for the better.’

Last question. If I told you you’d be at King’s for the next 10 years, what would you say?

Sounds good to me! 

CANTUARIAN | 2020

13

! s ie

P

Watch the

When I was asked to share a favourite recipe with The Cantuarian, I could not decide among the vastness of the Spanish culinary landscape, which Pope would have agreed is ‘a wild paradise, where, if we cannot see all the beauties so distinctly as in an ordered garden, it is only because the number of them is infinitely greater.’ So I picked a dish that both unites and divides us all in Spain.

Contrary to what most people would think, my choice is not the ubiquitous paella which has become the staple food of Spanish market stalls in England. Rice is present in many recipes across the peninsula, yes, but Paella is a regional dish only cooked in parts of the Mediterranean coast. No, the dish that is served in every tapas bar in Spain, and that parents lovingly cook for their children in every household, is the potato omelette, the humble tortilla, a mixture of eggs and potatoes which, handled properly, will reach unsuspected culinary heights.

14

CANTUARIAN | 2020

The eyes behind ‘Watch the Skies’, Fede Elias (Physics) shares a treasured Spanish recipe.

A third ingredient, onion, is often added – essential for some, anathema for others, I suspect it will trigger a new civil war one day. I am a sinner who loves onion in his tortilla, and I am a rather lazy cook who likes to take shortcuts, so this is my simplified recipe.

The leftovers hold well in the fridge, and as a cold snack the next day it’s still delicious. Bread and red wine pair well with it, and if you fry some green Italian peppers (or even better, Padron peppers), they make a heavenly side dish. You can also tweak the tortilla; my usual additions are either a green bell pepper (julienned and fried with the onion and the potatoes) or fresh chorizo (cut into small pieces and fried in a separate pan to remove the fat, then added to the mixture before giving shape to the tortilla). The variations are endless, and in Spain you can find any number of additions, from salted codfish to lamb testicles. But if you ask any Spaniard, they will tell you that the best tortilla is the one made by their parents!

Potato Omelette INGREDIENTS ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

4 or 5 Big Potatoes (Maris Piper work well) 1 Large Onion 6 or 7 Large Eggs Olive Oil Coarse Sea Salt

METHOD ■ Peel the potatoes and cut in halves, then into 2 or 3 mm thin slices ■ Julienne the onion ■ Put the onion and potatoes in a large frying pan, then almost cover them with olive oil (some people fry the onion and potatoes separately but it is easier to cook them together, and I have never found it makes any difference) ■ Start with a high heat but, once the oil starts to bubble, lower to a medium-high heat and cook them for about 45 minutes ■ The potatoes must be soft and some will turn light brown, but you must stop before they are crispy: we don’t want French Fries because the eggs won’t soak in well ■ Crack the eggs into a large bowl, add salt to taste (I add a pinch per egg, but I like my tortilla salty) and batter them – not much but just enough to mix the yolks and avoid making bubbles ■ Remove the onion and the potatoes from the pan, squeezing as much oil out as possible; normally they need to cool down to prevent the eggs from coagulating, but a trick to save time is to batter the eggs cold from the fridge and just put the potatoes straight into the same bowl ■ Mix the contents of the bowl well and let them sit for 20 to 30 minutes, until the potatoes have soaked up the egg ■ Add two or three spoonfuls of olive oil (could be from that left over after frying) to a clean pan and put it on a high heat then add the contents of the bowl and cook for about 5 minutes until the bottom has formed a solid crust ■ Now comes the difficult part: with a plate, a lid or a tray larger than the pan, cover and turn over, add a couple of spoonfuls of olive oil to the pan again, then make the tortilla slide back into the pan to cook the other side; this takes practice, and I normally do it on top of the bowl; on the rare occasions when some of the contents spill over, they can be poured from the bowl again into the pan; if the edges crumble, shape them back into the pan with a spatula ■ Wait two or three minutes until the other side of the tortilla forms a crust; if you don’t like the eggs runny, cook it longer – I prefer that they drip when I cut a slice; with a clean plate cover the pan again, turn over and (hopefully) you will have a beautiful tortilla in your hands

You can serve it straight away, or you can leave it to cool down to room temperature.

CANTUARIAN | 2020

15

On the

Water

16

CANTUARIAN | 2020

‘It was amazing to experience rowing in other countries as we got to race against foreign crews and get a taste of the culture and rowing attitude in those places.’

Natasha Southorn OKS

explains why King’s Rowing is unique.

H

aving rowed with Lady Eleanor Holles, King’s, and Durham University, I reckon I know what makes King’s rowing unique.

One of the great benefits of rowing at King’s was that we would race and train in so many different places, including Bruges, Ghent, Italy and even Newcastle. It was amazing to experience rowing in other countries as we got to race against foreign crews and get a taste of the culture and rowing attitude in those places.

As well as this, travelling so far to get to a regatta or head made that race seem especially important, since we didn’t want to go that far and leave without a medal. These trips also helped the rowing community to bond, which was another unique thing about rowing at King’s.

Our crews were all very supportive of each other, and having both a boys and girls squad meant that we were able to cheer each other on from the bank at races, increasing morale and determination to row as well as we could, hopefully leading us to victory. Everyone at The Boat Club got on very well, having bonded through all the water sessions, weights and ergs, apart from when our competitive spirits kicked in and we had to race against each other at house rowing and the erg races in King’s Week.

Another great thing about the community at The Boat Club is that even though my year group has now left to go to university or take a year out, we will still be able to keep in contact with each other

through the Canterbury Pilgrims Boat Club and stay updated on everyone’s rowing achievements, to still feel like we are one squad.

King’s is very lucky to have such a skilled coaching team, who are able to perfect the pupils’ rowing technique and create a rowing programme which ensures we are all constantly improving both fitness and strength, making us all better rowers. Having a specific coach dedicated to each squad really helped because they got to know how each member of the crew rowed individually, and how to make sure we were all rowing in the same way to make the boat move faster.

Westbere Lake also made King’s Rowing unique. Before coming to King’s, I had been rowing on the Thames, so moving to rowing on a lake was quite a big change. Although Westbere is fairly short, we managed to make the most of the distance by doing lots of 1k pieces, which were effective in building up our stamina for both longer and shorter races. Westbere is much more exposed to the wind than the Thames, and it forces crews to deal with bad conditions and still row well, which is a challenge not many crews can boast. Rowing on The Tideway when I was at LEH was difficult because I was used to a nice flat part of the river, but when I raced a Pair’s Head at King’s, it felt much easier because I had become accustomed to choppy conditions.

Overall, rowing at King’s was a really good experience due to its great community, coaching team and programme.  CANTUARIAN | 2020

17

David Newsholme has created a new tradition, Canterbury Cathedral Girls’ Choir.

I

n retrospect, four ninety-minute rehearsals should have been nowhere near enough time to adequately prepare a newlyassembled choir for its maiden service.

The first Girls’ Choir at Canterbury Cathedral consisted of 16 teenagers, some of whom had little choral experience and many of whom had next to no experience of singing in church. There was a total of just six hours available to teach these fledgling choristers all of the music they’d need to know for Evensong. This included an Introit, the Preces and Responses, the Psalm – with its strange notational language of dots and lines – the Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis, an anthem, and a hymn. In addition to all of this, they needed to know how to process, where to process, when to stand, when to sit, when to face East and say The Creed (how to say The Creed!), when to bow, when to kneel. And, of course, robes needed to be fitted (cassocks and surplices: What is a cassock? Why is it called a ‘surplus’?!).

Having been a chorister myself at Worcester Cathedral, I’ve spent a lifetime working in choral foundations: as a Lay Clerk at Worcester, an Organ Scholar at Salisbury Cathedral, Assistant Director of Chapel Music at Winchester College and, since 2011, Assistant Organist at Canterbury Cathedral. The routine and ritual of the Anglican Church and its robed choirs is largely habitual to me, and so, confronted with the need to communicate that knowledge quickly and comprehensively, a fair amount of (self?)-evaluation was required. Undoubtedly one of the most rewarding aspects of working with the Girls’ Choir, since its foundation seven and a half years ago, has been the extent to which its very existence has demanded that I re-think many aspects of the rich and ancient tradition in which I’ve grown up.

As the choir’s first service approached, substantial interest was shown by the international media; consequently a press call was arranged, claiming with it our final rehearsal slot (down to four and a half hours, then…). It’s fair to say that, when I decided to pursue a career in church music, I didn’t anticipate evenings spent in Canterbury Cathedral, moving from one media cohort to another, talking – together with the girls themselves, the stars of the show – to Al Jazeera, Newsround and the like! Canterbury was far from being the first cathedral to found a Girls’ Choir (Salisbury Cathedral, who first admitted girls in 1991, can lay claim to that), and so it’s fair to say I hadn’t been expecting the level of attention. Clearly I had underestimated the widespread appeal of the mother church, and the place in people’s affections which it holds throughout the Communion.

18

CANTUARIAN | 2020

The day of the first performance – January 25th, the Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul (apt, perhaps?) – didn’t disappoint. As the procession entered a packed Quire (standing room only, with congregation filling the several rows of steps which lead up to the High Altar), there was an almighty crash of thunder (apt, certainly!). The girls made a remarkable job of the occasion; apparently four and a half hours of rehearsal time was enough after all! At the end, they walked out to a round of applause and a standing ovation. The historic event was captured by a BBC documentary film crew who were then spending the year at the Cathedral. There was – and has been – no turning back.

During the early days, the choir rehearsed just once each week and sang at Cathedral services once or twice each month – a relatively small amount, especially when compared to the resident choir of boys and men, which generally sang seven or eight services each week. In recent years, the Girls’ Choir has met on two evenings a week, and sung at a service each weekend. It was clear to me from the start

Sweet

singing

in the

quire

that, if the Girls’ Choir was not to be considered the words and music, engendering committed and merely a ‘B-team’ to the boys, it would need to communicative performances. During the first year forge its own distinct identity. or two of the choir’s existence, Consequently, in addition I was regularly approached by to service-singing, concerts those who would suggest that the ‘... apparently four and recordings have featured girls perform music ‘appropriate and a half hours of to girls’ (whatever that means). I prominently in the story of the Girls’ Choir. rehearsal time was have always been at pains to point out to anyone who will listen how enough after all!’

The first of these recordings important it is that these girls take was an album of music by ownership of our great musical the great English composer heritage to which they – especially Henry Purcell. A full academic year was spent as members of this Cathedral’s choral foundation preparing this wonderful repertoire, which is – are rightful and deserving heirs. notable for its intensely expressive setting of text. It served as an eminently useful means of The activities of the Girls’ Choir have been encouraging the girls to sing with a full-bodied deliberately diverse, which is important for what tone, engaging intellectually and creatively with is an ensemble with essentially 

‘The historic event was captured by a BBC documentary film crew who were then spending the year at the Cathedral.

There was – and has been – no turning back.’

CANTUARIAN | 2020

19

‘The energy of these girls, in their passion for learning, their good humour, and their commitment to maintaining a cake-rota for breaks in rehearsals, is extraordinary; they make the choir what it is: a vital and thriving ensemble.’

20

CANTUARIAN | 2020

educational aims at its core. The choir’s second album was about as different from its first as could be imagined: a programme of Christmas carols in brand new arrangements, managed and released by international record label Decca. The entire experience was every bit as extraordinary and unforeseen – for me, at least – as the events around the choir’s founding.

During the summer of 2017, we trooped up to London on a coach to Angel Recording Studios in Islington.

The experience of recording in a studio, where each chorister was given her own microphone, was new and videos released in December (recorded earlier that exciting for us all. We performed to a specially recorded year, and involving the girls miming along to their own accompaniment track played by the Latvian Opera audio). Sure, the music wasn’t as highbrow as that on Orchestra; a highlight of the sessions was singing a our Purcell disc, but the entire experience was a huge amount of fun and – essentially – it carol written specially for the choir by brought wider awareness of what this eminent composer Rebecca Dale, who attended.

‘It was clear to me from group of teenage girls could do.

the start that, if the

The Girls’ Choir has enjoyed a rich and Memorable as these recording Girls’ Choir was not to varied programme of events in recent sessions were, they weren’t a patch on the glitz and glamour (again, not be considered merely a years. In addition to singing at regular something I’d anticipated from a life in ‘B-team’ to the boys, it Cathedral services, it has participated events of national and international cathedral music!) of what was to come. would need to forge its at significance here in Canterbury, After the album was released later that own distinct identity.’ including the service held to mark the year, we travelled to London to make 20th anniversary of the ordination of promotional appearances on ITV’s women priests (at which they sang This Morning (the highlight for the girls apparently being the opportunity to meet Ryland), Handel’s aria ‘If God be for us, who can be against us’), followed by a performance outside BBC Broadcasting and the consecration service of the Bishop in Europe.

House at the end of the final episode before Christmas The girls sang at a service of dedication and unveiling of two royal statues, attended by HM the Queen and HRH of The One Show. the Duke of Edinburgh, and at the consecration service It was thrilling to follow the disc’s fortunes as it crept for the first female diocesan bishop. up the Official Classical Charts (peaking at No. 2), to hear it featured as Disc of the Week on both Classic FM The choir has collaborated with a number of and Apple Music, and to catch the glossy promotional distinguished instrumental and vocal ensembles,

Album reviews: The sound created under the choir’s director, David Newsholme, is bright and smoothly blended, with excellent articulation and dynamic detail. Most of the pieces are familiar… but the thoughtful orchestral arrangements add interest, just occasionally turning a little glitzy. The performances have a heartfelt sincerity.

BBC Music Magazine A highly enjoyable, well recorded CD that flows well and contains some wonderful singing…

Go ahead and buy it! iClassical

The One Show

Good Morning

including His Majestys Sagbutts and Cornetts [sic.], Fretwork, The English Concert, and VOCES8; it has also struck up an enduring partnership with the colourfully-named group The Harmonious Society of Tickle-Fiddle Gentlemen, with whom performances of Handel’s Messiah, Bach’s St. John Passion, and Haydn’s The Creation have taken place.

Members of the Girls’ Choir attend schools throughout East Kent, and some forty have passed through choir to date. It is my great joy to have the opportunity to share with them my enthusiasm for choral music, and for singing in general. The energy of these girls, in their passion for learning, their good humour, and their commitment to maintaining a cake-rota for breaks in rehearsals, is extraordinary; they make the choir what it is: a vital and thriving ensemble. It has been wonderful to see so many of them continue to enjoy singing after leaving the choir, from those at conservatoire level, right through those who decide to join an amateur group whilst pursuing their university studies. I am delighted that their talent, enthusiasm and joy continue to forge a new tradition in the choir stalls, and proud that they take that out with them into the world.

‘It was thrilling to follow the disc’s fortunes as it crept up the Official Classical Charts (peaking at No. 2), to hear it featured as Disc of the Week on both Classic FM and Apple Music.’

CANTUARIAN | 2020

21

No FRILLS

Head of Dance, Victoria Outram, declares dance is for athletes, not wimps.

I

f you have ever used the word ‘pink’, Physiotherapy, keeping to a careful health ‘dainty’ or even ‘tights’ when making regime in terms of diet, and intense mental reference to dance you are fuelling a focus are expected every day. Professional prolific stereotype against some of our most dance training is hugely demanding diligent and ambitious young people. The physically, and at times disheartening, as are benefits of dance classes for the participant all worthwhile goals that require the utmost far outweigh the irritation of these old- discipline. fashioned clichés. Dance is not a soft option.

When done properly it frustrates, hurts, There is a saying amongst dancers: if you punishes and knocks you back in exactly the miss one daily morning class, no one will same way as training to be notice; if you miss two an athlete. Professional you will notice; if you miss ‘The benefits of dancers are athletes and three classes, everyone if you believe otherwise will notice. I wish attitudes dance classes for you are mistaken. were different, both the participant towards male and female Teaching dance to young participation, because far outweigh the people and creating unless we have tried irritation of these performances for something ourselves we them to shine in and old-fashioned clichés.’ really do not know what is remember into their required to do it properly adult lives is a rewarding and therefore we should and worthwhile occupation, but it is also a not impose misguided views on the young. frustrating role at times. The stereotypical If children who choose to dance were no view of dance remains something that longer subjected to cynicism from those needs to be addressed. There is a lack of who are intimidated by an activity they don’t understanding about what it takes to dance understand, the mental and physical health well. benefits of participating in dance could influence for the better many more young The problem stems, as ever, from adults: the people than it already does. stubborn belief that dance is ‘feminine’ and ‘soft’ is a tired prejudice. It may fit the profile Leonard Bernstein was right to say ‘The of a five-year-old starting out in a costume point is that art never stopped a war and that we choose to put them in, but this never got anybody a job, but that was never soon changes as the sharper requirements its function. Art cannot change events, but of learning to dance earnestly take hold. At it can change people. It can affect people the top of the world of dance, dancers put so that they are changed, because people their profession above all else in their lives, are changed by art – enriched, ennobled, in exactly the same way as top sporting encouraged – then they act in a way that may athletes. There is not room for compromise, affect the course of events by the way they and resilience is key. vote, they behave, the way they think.’ Alongside the rigour of performance is the daily grind of class practice, then performance rehearsals, as well as strength and conditioning: repeatedly lifting dancers as well as being lifted at different angles and speeds is not for the faint-hearted.

22

CANTUARIAN | 2020

‘Professional dance training is hugely demanding physically, and at times disheartening.’

‘At the top of the world of dance, dancers put their profession above all else in their lives, in exactly the same way as top sporting athletes.’

CANTUARIAN | 2020

23

At The King’s School we have a headmaster and governing body who recognise that Dance is a healthy, vigorous, mentally grounding occupation which is enjoyed by both boys and girls. Often our pupils who dance are high academic achievers, tending to be amongst the most driven of King’s pupils. We are fortunate to have a burgeoning scholarship programme which currently serves ten talented young scholars who revel in studying dance and are able to combine the academic excellence they seek with the dance programme we offer. These scholars dance alongside their peers from all year groups and our numbers increase further when a performance is being prepared.

‘...repeatedly lifting dancers as well as being lifted at different angles and speeds is not for the faint-hearted.’

Alongside developing physically, boys and girls get to spend time engaging purposefully with each other, creating dance theatre, enabling them to experience the thrill of performance which is something that stays with them into their adult life.

The fact that we now have the fantastic facility of The Malthouse Theatre in which to operate our programme is a dream without measure. We are tremendously fortunate and I commend dance and dance acting to all who pass through this great school: a keen mathematician or historian, a musician, someone new to dance, you will find a place here, open-minded friends, resilience, courage and a chance to spend time with each other whilst making work to enjoy performing.

Dance actors are an important part of the group, and you do not need to consider yourself a dancer to find a place here. Become part of a new chapter in the history of the school on the stage of The Malthouse. There is no ‘pink and dainty’ nonsense here.

‘The fantastic facility of The Malthouse Theatre in which to operate our programme is a dream without measure.’

24

CANTUARIAN | 2020

Hannah Dickson (6b), Dance Scholar Dance combines mental discipline, athleticism and performance, which is why it is a complex art form. It pushes your body to achieve a higher level of strength, flexibility and musicality, all while being challenged by the theatrical aspect. It challenges you intellectually as well as physically. Dance is inextricably linked to music, so there are strong artistic elements which I have always loved.

Dance has been a part of my life since I was quite young and has provided stability and balance throughout so I would not like to envisage my future without it. The studio is the one space where I can be just a dancer, and nobody else. The escapism it offers is almost addictive. When I dance, all that other people see is me expressing myself in a physical way that is hard to articulate. It is a different kind of communication, a universal language and one that is very liberating to experience.

However, dance is not without its obstacles: the highs, when they come, are incredible, but the lows are tough to the same extreme.

My first teacher always told me never to be truly satisfied with what I had accomplished because one can always improve. You need mental discipline to push yourself despite other activities demanding your time, added to the tiredness of your body.

Therefore, to succeed in reaching a long-term goal or mastering a new step, it is essential to enjoy the art form purely for what it is, not for how easy you find it or how good you are. That is the only perspective that will drag you through the hard times when you question why you dance.

Miles Packard (Shell), Dance Scholar Dance has always been a part of my life.

I enjoy it because it gives me a chance to escape, entering a state of concentration where it becomes all I can think about, and it is one of the most evident examples of the phrase ‘practice makes perfect’. However, dance is far from the easy, peaceful look the professionals give to it as it takes a large amount of work to form any kind of foundation for your technique and strength.

Every session is a challenge to push yourself further than before whilst making it appear effortless.

Liza Barkova (Remove), Dance Scholar Despite its being a performing art, sometimes I feel dance is quite an internal form of expression. Movement that makes an emotional impact on an audience is a hard thing to create; it’s all about how the choreography feels in your body, something no one else can teach you. The success of a performance relies heavily on a dancer’s ability to take the movement they are given and make it their own, then the audience can sense that they are communicating, and not just going through a set pattern of steps. For me, feeling like I have made an audience member feel something is incredibly rewarding.

It is easy to underestimate the level of blood, sweat and tears that it takes just to experience this, but the challenge of getting there is what makes the recognition so fulfilling.

Dance is often viewed as a softer alternative to sport but many people fail to understand that the aim of any dancer is to make their moves appear easy and weightless. No matter whether it is demanding choreography or casting a simple position of the hand, in reality they have to go through hours of hard work to achieve either of them. Just like any other skill it takes time to become a good dancer, which can only be achieved if you put in maximum effort every day, something not everyone is capable of enduring.

Dance also requires vast emotional input, as well as physical, since it can only be done with feeling and connection to the movement. This is why dance is a great way to express yourself and put your energy and emotions into a meaningful form, which is why I am incredibly thankful to King’s for this opportunity to be able to continue dancing even when I am away from home.

CANTUARIAN | 2020

25

26

CANTUARIAN | 2020

CANTUARIAN | 2020

27

White

by Elena Merican Winner of the Sebastian Barker Poetry Prize 2020

Too much red to plead white, tonight I will bleed white.

The national colour has just been decreed: white.

I bake bread as ashes turn the almost-freed white.

(Too brown. Too liquid. Not dough. Add flour and knead white.)

I smile at green trees that the smoke will force-feed white.

Pearl-less oceans, yet my neck still yearns for beads white.

I will scrub my soul. Its blankness will exceed white.

Waves of worry on hot sand - all will recede white.

Clare? Tay? Too many names.

Erase them. (Can’t misread white.)

28

CANTUARIAN | 2020

CANTUARIAN | 2020

29

‘For a long time, the Viennese coffee house seemed predestined for plotting, if only thanks to tradition.’

Mark Twain paid tribute to ‘that unapproachable luxury – that sumptuousness coffee-house coffee, compared to which all European coffee and all-American hotel coffee is mere fluid poverty.’

It was a sweeping statement but not wrong: American coffee often resembles nothing more than a squirt of filthy fluid. The Viennese coffee house, by contrast, served a stimulant for those suffering from nervous tension or just from living on the edge of reason. The coffee house provided a cross section or sample of a world spinning out of control. Elias Canetti, perhaps the epitome of the emigré intellectual – his extensive connections to Vienna included an affair with Alma Mahler – said people went to coffee houses to be alone among many.

David Perkins describes the fin-de-siècle Viennese coffee Zoom would have blown his mind. The satirist house.

Karl Kraus scoffed at the ‘…milieu of feigned morphinism...’ in the Viennese coffee house. He ienna 1890 to 1914 was a prime site of change said, ‘In the coffeehouse, the talented people in Western intellectual, cultural and artistic sit so close together at the same table that they life: it was a fertile breeding ground for what get in the way of each other’s blossoming.’ we now call modernism. There was a concentrated burst of creativity from genuine innovators in The distraught nerves, together with the different fields: architecture, arts and crafts, intense fin-de-siècle atmosphere, inclined these economics, literature, music, painting, philosophy, modernists to Kleinkunst, an art of scraps and psychoanalysis. Vienna was the city in which a good fragments. Peter Altenberg was the miniaturist deal of modern art and thought emerged in a crisis of par excellence. He anticipated Twitter with political disintegration, a crisis of disintegration that remarkable prescience. He lived in hotel rooms still speaks to us today. Fin-de-siècle Vienna was also and considered the Café Central his mailing Adolf Hitler’s Vienna. address. Altenberg is memorialised in the Café Central by a life-sized model.

Literary modernism arose in Vienna in the context of the café: the movement fell within the same Venn diagram as the Some well-known Viennese figures associated with the Café coffee house. The end of the world began in Vienna around 1900, Central: Max Adler, Peter Altenberg, Otto Bauer, Leon Bronstein or so they say, and the Viennese coffee house provided a ringside aka Trotsky, Josip Broz aka Tito, Egon Dietrichstein, Sigmund Freud, seat from which to observe the apocalypse. It seemed like there Egon Friedell, Theodor Herzl, Adolf Hitler, Hugo von Hofmannsthal, was a coffee house on every corner: there were about 600 coffee Karel Kramar, Karl Kraus, Otfried Kryzanowski, Anton Kuh, Adolf houses in Vienna 1900. For a long time, the Viennese coffee house Loos, Karl Lueger, Thomas Masaryk, Robert Musil, Alfred Polgar, seemed predestined for plotting, if only thanks to tradition.

Karl Renner.

Viennese Whirl

V

The original early Nineteenth Century cultural café was the Silbernes Kaffeehaus, which was the centre of bourgeois intellectual life in the Biedermeier period. The Café Griensteidl took over the mantle in 1847. It was here that the 1848 revolution was dreamt up: so much so, in fact, that in 1848 Café Griensteidl became known as the Nationalcafé. It later became the haunt of the modernists of the Young Vienna movement. In 1897 Café Griensteidl – dubbed

by Karl Kraus ‘Café Grössenwahn’ (‘delusions-of-grandeur café’) – gave way to the Café Central. The break-up of the Habsburg Empire was envisioned by coffee house radicals in the years before 1918. Countless dreamers, conspirators and emigrés fetched up in Vienna over the years. They sat around and dreamed dreams; they plotted vast but somehow comforting conspiracies. Sometimes they played chess. They came from both the extreme left and the extreme right. What they had in common was being creatures of habit, café revolutionists: Trotsky always occupied the same window corner in the Café Central.

30

CANTUARIAN | 2020

‘The end of the world began in Vienna around 1900, or so they say, and the Viennese coffee house provided a ringside seat.’

The Café Central held first place among the turn-of-thecentury literary cafés. The journalist Alfred Polgar came up with The Theory of the Café Central: ‘The Café Central is not a café like other cafés but a Weltanschauung, a philosophical attitude and a way of looking at the world whose very essence consists of not looking at the world.

The Café Central represents a kind of organisation for the disordered.’

apparatus is gathered up: lack of talent, precociousness, Another one of the literary nomads at the Café Central poses, megalomania, sweet girls, cravats, affectation, was Anton Kuh. Kuh remarked, ‘The coffee-house man of incorrect datives, monocles and secret nerves, everything letters is a person who has the time in the coffee-house must go. Hesitant poets are led gently out, dragged out to contemplate what others do not experience outside.’ of dingy corners, they shy away from the light, from the Kuh was a pacifist and famously developed a facial tic to fullness of life that oppresses them. Against this light the evade military service in World War One. At monocle offers but weak defence. Life will the end of the war, however, he could not break the crutch of affectation … Where is ‘What they had unlearn the tic. young literature headed for?’

in common was

Café Griensteidl is often regarded as Some well-known Viennese figures being creatures Vienna’s first true literary café. It was a associated with the Café Griensteidl: Victor of habit, café gathering place for the Young Vienna circle Adler, Leopold von Andrian, Friedrich revolutionists.’ of literary modernists. Griensteidl was razed Austerlitz, Herman Bahr, Richard Beerto the ground in 1897 (it is now recreated Hoffmann, Felix Dörmann, Heinrich in Vienna as an original copy or just a copy of the original) Friedjung, Max Graf, Hugo von Hofmannsthal, Karl Kraus, and prompted satirist Karl Kraus to write a demolition of Rosa Mayreder, Engelbert Pernerstorfer, Felix Salten, the Young Vienna modernists who encamped there, in Arthur Schnitzler, Arnold Schönberg, Georg von Schönerer, Literature Demolished, 1897: ‘Hurriedly all the literary Alexander Zemlinsky, Stefan Zweig.

I am loath to close: you can talk about the Viennese coffee house all you like but there really is no substitute for going to Vienna and conducting extensive empirical research.

CANTUARIAN | 2020

31

The Coffee House You have problems, this, or that – to the coffee-house!

She can’t visit you, for some reason, however plausible – to the coffee-house!

Your boots are torn – coffee-house!

You earn 400 Kronen and spend 500 – coffee-house!

You’re a civil servant and would have liked to be a doctor – coffee-house!

You can’t find a woman to suit you – coffee-house!

You’re inwardly ready for suicide – coffee-house!

You hate and disdain your fellow human beings yet cannot do without them – coffee-house!

You are no longer allowed credit anywhere – coffee-house!

Peter Altenberg

32

CANTUARIAN | 2020

CANTUARIAN | 2020

33

e n fi

Like A

Wine

34

CANTUARIAN | 2020

sent Oscar Marsh a We (6a) to meet the Simpsons, King’s parents and makers of England’s finest wines.

‘I

hate prosecco.’ Not something you necessarily expect to hear from a professional winemaker but, after Charles and Ruth Simpson explained why, I understood where they were coming from.

Traditional Champagne was accidentally invented by the English when they were bringing low-alcohol wine over from Champagne in France. The unsanitary condition of the ship and barrels caused the wine to undergo a second fermentation, making it fizz. This turned the bitter, lowalcohol wine into something fruitier and sweeter with bubbles – what’s now known as Champagne or champenoise sparkling wine. Knowing then that prosecco is just carbonated, like soda-stream pop, takes away some of its magic.

Charles and Ruth are world-class winemakers. They own vineyards in Kent and the South of France and have produced

some of the world’s best wines (no joke: their wine has been ranked as one of the top 50 worldwide by Decanter).

They started making wine after deciding, while living in Azerbaijan, that they wanted to work for themselves and run their own business. They were both keen wine drinkers, so decided viticulture was the way forward. They wrote their first business plan in an ex-KGB building and by 2002 they’d bought their first vineyard in Languedoc, a winemaking region in the South of France.

In 2012, they began looking to start a second project. They’d heard English sparkling wine was on the rise as Southern England has similar soil and a similar climate to Champagne. (In fact, Charles speculates that in 20 years’ time English people won’t be drinking Champagne any more because English wine will have taken over.) They

purchased land on the North Downs after discovering that the soil contained chalk, the equivalent of striking gold for winemakers.

Chalk encourages high acidity levels and allows vineyards to drain water if there’s too much rain whilst allowing the perfect level of moisture for vines. They planted grapes here and in 2016 had their first harvest. Their wine has gained international recognition and this year they are releasing the first still English wine to be priced at over £100 (it’s called the cru class and there are only 1,200 bottles available). I visited their Kent vineyard to interview Charles and Ruth, and learn more about their story and the wine industry.

How did you get into the wine industry?

Ruth: We started off as very keen wine consumers with a love for visiting different parts of the world that grew grapes and produced wine. We were posted out to CANTUARIAN | 2020

35

‘We’ve got two of the best vineyard sites in the UK because we’re in the North Downs that contains chalk.’

Azerbaijan for Charles’ work. We both had aspirations of working for ourselves and running our own business. We chose wine because of the broadness of skills required. You needed to be good at agriculture for grape growing, the technical wine making and the business side of marketing and sales. We wanted to get involved in everything, rather than just growing grapes or making wine and thought that, as two Brits, it would be better to do this in the new world (Australia, New Zealand), but we eventually settled on the winemaking region Languedoc-Roussillon because, although it’s in the old world, they have a much more open-minded approach to wine.

How do you choose what grape varieties to grow?

Charles: For our English project, we had 20 years of experience under our belt, and were more selective about which grapes to grow compared to our project in France.

We only have Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir because we 36

CANTUARIAN | 2020

‘...all this hard work that went into growing the grapes and making the wine and then you see people getting pleasure out of it.’

thought we were only going to be making champenoise sparkling wine. However, we do have clones of these varieties. They have different flavour profiles so certain Chardonnay clones are suitable for still wine, and certain Chardonnay clones are suitable for sparkling wine. At Simpsons Wine Estate we have 12 different clones of Chardonnay. If you look at the anatomy of a vine you have the clone or variety, which is the bit you see above the ground, and the rootstock, which is the part of the vine below the ground, and they’re totally separate things.

You grow different rootstocks depending on the type of soil. We have 12 clones on two different rootstocks, which means we have 24 permutations of Chardonnay alone and each of these will have nuanced characters. And for Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier we have the same thing.

What’s the best or most interesting part of your job?

Charles: The variation of the job is what makes this role so interesting, and I think it would be very difficult to go back to just doing marketing or just doing finance. The most rewarding part of the role, though, is seeing consumers enjoying your wine: all this hard work that went into growing the grapes and making the wine and then you see people getting pleasure out of it. With social media nowadays you see people all round the world who take a photograph of their wife or their husband with a bottle of Simpsons and it could be anywhere in the world. We’ve seen people on honeymoon in Saudi Arabia who weren’t allowed to bring alcohol in but have snuck a bottle of Simpsons into their bag, and there they are in the desert on a camel with a glass of Simpsons. That’s one of those moments that really touches you, that someone, somewhere in the world is enjoying a glass of your wine with a loved one and you go, ‘That’s really cool.’

What sets Simpsons apart from other English wine that means you are awarded top-tier awards?

Charles: I think it’s a combination of things. One is the provenance.

Some of the other producers of wine in this country make fantastic wines but source their grapes from all over England. We believe wine should have a sense of place and, because we’re only taking wine from this valley, our wines taste like they come from this valley. Another thing is that because we were doing this for years beforehand, we gained a wealth of experience in a country that has a great reputation for making wine. So we’ve got a lot of know-how and that really shows in the polished nature of our wine.

And final point three is the terroir, the place that we occupy and land that we’re on. We believe that we’ve got two of the best vineyard sites in the UK and because we’re in the North Downs that contains chalk.

But, more so, we’re surrounded by the sea on three sides, which gives us warmth, and therefore we’re

able to get sugar content to the right level to give us what we need to make world-class sparkling wines and world-class still wines.

What’s the end Simpsons’ wine?

goal

for

Charles: Put our feet up somewhere warm and not do any work for the rest of our lives. I want to sell ice-cream cones on a beach in Montpellier.

‘We’re surrounded by the sea on three sides, which gives us warmth... therefore we’re able to get sugar content to the right level to make world-class wines.’

Ruth: We want to grow, carry on making really great wine and help establish England as a producer of both sparkling and still wines. For still wines, we’re doing a pretty good job of leading the way.

We don’t see ourselves growing massively. We don’t want to be as huge as Moet & Chandon, making millions of bottles a year. We want to stay true to our original goals and keep those aspects of our DNA, our provenance, our savoir-faire and the innovation there. I come from a whiskey family, and it’s still being CANTUARIAN | 2020

37

run by the family five or six generations later. Certainly, there’s no pressure on our children to go into the business but who knows what the future holds?

‘Because the key to wine is the acid you need to be really careful with the level of acidity when combining it with food.’

38

CANTUARIAN | 2020

Do you have a favourite unconventional wine pairing?

Ruth: We make a Pinnacle Syrah which is a southern wine should be served at room temperature, but whose French, gutsy red that most people think you’d pair with room and what temperature? The notion that it should barbecued red meat. It actually goes brilliantly with a be room temperature has been translated poorly. What dark chocolate dessert like a chocolate mousse or a red wine is meant to be served at is cellar temperature. chocolate tart.

The temperature of a natural cellar is between 16°C Charles: I think people get a bit worked up about food and 18°C. What you find is the warmer the red wine pairings. They try and say white wine gets the more pronounced the goes well with chicken and salad and alcohol becomes and so all you get ‘People talk about red red wine works well with meat, but when you put your nose in it is the the reality is you don’t need to be that scent of alcohol and all the fruit wines going well with prescriptive. A light red wine with fish characters that were there just get cheese, but actually can actually be a better combination. totally blown off. In this country white wines go much Because the key to wine is the acid we also overchill our white wine. better because the you need to be really careful with 5°C out of a refrigerator is way too the level of acidity when combining it cold for most wines. And the colder acidity cuts through with food. People talk about red wines the wine is the more restrained the the fat. ’ going well with cheese, but actually flavours are. We recommend for white wines go much better because our Chardonnays between 9°C and the acidity cuts through the fat. And there are all these 11°C. If you just drink it out the fridge, you’re masking old wife’s tales about wine. I grew up seeing my parents those characters. The reason you drink Coca-Cola cold stick a bottle of red by the fire as if somehow they is because it’s disgusting when it’s warm. It’s not the were getting the wine up to temperature and letting it case with wine. A white wine at 11°C is fantastic. It’s breathe. What a ridiculous thing to do! People say red got all the fruit, all the aromatics, all the body, all the structure.

‘Most of the Michelin Star restaurants in Kent have our wines, including The Sportsman, The Fordwich Arms and The Pig.’

If you had to pick a wine to describe your personality, which wine would it be?

Charles: Well, clearly for both Ruth and me it would be sparkling for our bubbly personalities. You, Ruth, I would say, are Gravel Castle because it’s thin, acidic, sharp.

Ruth: Shall we not get onto the full-bodied reds, then, Charles?

And, lastly, where can readers purchase your wine?

Charles: Well, where can’t they purchase our wine? We have national distribution with Waitrose so you can try there. Majestic also sells our wine, from the French and English vineyards. The Wine Society has a couple of our wines. Naked Wines carry our French and our English Wines, but you can also get the wines directly from our website, including the ones we don’t supply to Waitrose or Majestic. Go to www.simpsonswine.com. If you’re out and about, most of the Michelin Star restaurants in Kent have our wines, including The Sportsman, The Fordwich Arms and The Pig. Even Happy Samurai have our French wines. If you go to London, our rosé is at The National Portrait Gallery, The Royal Opera House and The Shard. So you’re spoilt for choice!  CANTUARIAN | 2020

39

‘We want to stay true to our original goals and keep those aspects of our DNA, our provenance, our savoir-faire and the innovation there.’

40

CANTUARIAN | 2020

CANTUARIAN | 2020

41

Yes,

Matron

We asked Purples to tell us what they thought of their matrons.

Meister Omers Jane is a bubbly person, loved by all, who completes the great atmosphere within the house, as well as tending to everyone’s needs. We all really appreciate everything she does.

Lady Kingsdown Mrs. O’Neill is the spine of Kingsdown: her unfailing support and love make this house a better place to be.

Walpole Mrs. Edwards is a massive part of making Walpole the house it is. She is always around for a chat and a cup of tea and everyone loves it when they see her office door open because we know there will always be a chocolate bar waiting for us!

Jervis Dear Matron, only you will know how just asking for a paracetamol can turn into a two-hour discussion and the best life advice.

Tradescant Miss O’Hara is amazing and will always have your back. She’ll also make sure you’re slamming back your meds regardless of the time of day.

Galpins This summer Michelle will end her fourth year – no mean feat given that our 6a leavers of 2019 were on their sixth matron. A permanent fixture of the community, it’s hard to think how we’d cope without Michelle, let alone get out of bed on time.

42

CANTUARIAN | 2020

Broughton Matron is our rock. She is the glue that holds us together and life in Broughton would not be the same without her.

Luxmoore Miss Joyce never fails to put a smile on everyone’s face. Her positive energy is what gets us through some of the trickiest weeks. We could never fully express how grateful we are to have her.

Carlyon Cheryl’s enthusiasm and kindness put a smile on everyone’s faces when we come into the house every morning.

Mitchinsons Emma is one of the loveliest ladies we’ve ever met. Always with a smile, a laugh and a listening ear, she helps every one of us any way she can and we cannot thank her enough. We feel lucky.

Bailey Describing all the great things about Dee in one sentence is impossible but her defining characteristic is unwavering generosity. She is one of my favourite people at King’s.

School House Mary-Anne’s presence is felt throughout the house. She shows a willingness to help at any time and is an integral part of keeping the house on its feet and looking smart!

Linacre Sandra is a beacon of joy and happiness in the house; she’s always there for a quick chat if you need help with anything, and her home-made banana bread is to die for.

The Grange Miss Rob aka The Pillar is a second mother to everyone. With shades of Mother Goose, she is still one of the coolest and most interesting people around. I honestly don’t know where I would be without her.

Marlowe Mrs. Fell is at the core of Marlowe; without her it just wouldn’t be the same. Everyone appreciates her presence.

Harvey Lynn Gower is the kindest but most realistic person you will ever meet – for a nice chat, funny jokes and stories of her dreaded treadmill. (A stern chat is now a ‘dreadmill’.) All she does is out of love, and for that I am thankful.

CANTUARIAN | 2020

43

44

CANTUARIAN | 2020

Top

Billing Bill Baxendale 1957 - 2021

by Rebekah Beattie

I

n the summer of 2017, just before King’s Week, I called Mr. Bill Baxendale to invite him to meet me for interview. I distinctly remember the feeling of instant ease – his friendly, cheerful tone, warmth of spirit and sparkling sense of humour radiated down the phone.

Sitting in the famous King’s Week deck chairs with a cuppa the following week, after he had got the job, we overlooked the festivities on Green Court, chatting about everything from family to our mutual gluten-free status, and I knew then that I had found in Bill not only a masterful colleague but a dear friend.

Bill was loved by all he met and has made a strong, lasting impact on our lives at King’s.

He gave of his time and care cheerfully, treating everyone with kindness and respect.

As a school and department, we benefited every day from his incredible experience and knowledge, the fruits of his full and rich life.

William Baxendale was born on 15 April 1957 in Manchester; many a time did we benefit from his mischievous, twinkly Northern humour and joyful chuckle! Having completed his nurse training in 1974, he worked from then until 1979 at the North Manchester General Hospital as both a General and Children’s Nurse. He brought this sensitive and caring nature to King’s every single day. Bill was a superb listener and had the gift of lifting people’s spirits. His gentle and compassionate nature was further used in his work as a trained Clinical Psychotherapist. Amidst stressful show weeks, exam performances and day-to-day anxieties, Bill was a calming presence, a tender problem-solver, a supportive friend.

‘Amidst stressful show weeks, exam performances and day-to-day anxieties, Bill was a calming presence, a tender problem-solver, a supportive friend.’

We profited also from his academic prowess since, in 1983, Bill attained a degree in English and Drama, prompting many happy discussions about book and play recommendations. His superb dramatic knowledge and intense love of theatre meant that his work was always professional, well informed and cutting-edge.

His time working at the Capitol Theatre at MMU on both the university shows and with professional companies cemented this creative approach and we were lucky to have his expertise.

Some of my fondest memories are of our first production meetings when I would give Bill the

chosen play and my initial thoughts. Between us we would riff and explore ideas, share Pinterest boards, leave show-related knickknacks on each other’s desk, getting excited about each project. Without fail, a couple of days later he would present me with a stunning mood board (worthy of framing!) chock-full of his incredible imagination and sense of magic.

Bill was a real family man and was happy living by the sea in his beloved Deal, with his wonderful wife and son, Martine and Harry – and a family full of theatrical professionals.

Bill would often relate fun stories of shows they had seen together. He was also a loving CANTUARIAN | 2020

45

‘He would present me with a stunning mood board (worthy of framing!) chock full of his incredible imagination and sense of magic.’

grandad to his daughter Emily’s son, Edwin. Martine and Harry would often come to our shows and the love and happiness of their family unit would always shine brightly.

Bill was instrumental in getting The Malthouse to where it is today.

Respected and highly regarded by the school staff, architects and builders alike, he worked tirelessly to ensure that the project was bridged successfully and smoothly for us. He made it work, breathed life into it, turned it into the joyful, comforting building that our students love to work in.

For us in The Drama Department, his loss runs deep. Every time we step into The Malthouse, he is there; I see and hear him everywhere. He crosses the technical rafters, his keys clink along the hallway, his phone reminders burst into fits of ‘Minion’ giggles that he would roll his eyes at! When stress threatens to get the better of us, he is there still with a joke, an idea, an ear.

Every single memory we have of Bill is a happy one. He still makes us smile.

His motto in life was Love, Live, Laugh. These were never empty words to him. He truly lived this through every action and interaction. I shall forever strive to be more like Bill. 46

CANTUARIAN | 2020

‘Bill was instrumental in getting The Malthouse to where it is today... He made it work, breathed life into it, turned it into the joyful, comforting building that our students love to work in.’

‘I see and hear him everywhere. He crosses the technical rafters, his keys clink along the hallway, his phone reminders burst into fits of ‘Minion’ giggles that he would roll his eyes at!’

CANTUARIAN | 2020

47

48

CANTUARIAN | 2020

King’s

International The International College Bill Prior (Director)

A

s countries around the world grapple with the uncertainties and challenges of the pandemic, we stand at a crucial moment for global cooperation.

Internationalism and diversity have long been important aspects of the community at King’s, and the International College, entering its fourth year, has played an important part. Our students board and attend lessons at the International College, yet they contribute to the lively collegiate life of King’s in the choir, ‘This year we on the lake and in the fencing salle.

This year we founded a student council, took important charitable initiatives and had many successes, academic, musical and artistic. Our graduating students leave us to move on to King’s and other boarding schools round the country, including St. Paul’s, Shrewsbury and Gordonstoun.

founded a student council, took important charitable initiatives and had many successes.’

As we prepare to bid them farewell, we also send our best wishes to our first cohort of students, some of whom are coming to the end of 6a at King’s and leaving for studies at Oxford, LSE and Imperial. We hope the articles in this section give you a sense of the diversity of experience in the International College community, through the voices of students past and present, and our staff.

‘My humanities teacher encouraged me to look deeply into my interests and was always open to discussion.’

Spoilt for Choice Alp Yilmaz (Student)

I

arrived at the IC planning to do my GCSEs and build an academic foundation before moving on to A’ Levels.

However, I ended up with a lot more. The one thing the IC and KSC have in common is fine teaching, from which I benefited hugely. For example, at the IC my humanities teacher encouraged me to look deeply into my interests and was always open to discussion. Thanks to him I ended up with a very clear idea of what I wanted to study for my A’ Levels. I chose Maths, History, Politics and Philosophy, and for my university application I settled for a subject that covered several areas of interest to me: Philosophy, Politics, and Economics. But where? Universities in the UK seemed like the obvious choice: same country, similar people. The US was another option. Since my sister lives in Boston, it would be good to be closer to her after we’ve been living in separate countries since 2012. The third option was a slightly different course in Amsterdam. The last one captured my interest, especially with the possibility of starting fresh somewhere. I suppose it’s fair to say I’m spoilt for choice.

CANTUARIAN | 2020

49

Straight

Talking

A

Olha Martyniuk (Student)

s a student at the International With both Ukrainian and Russian as my College I am surrounded by mother tongues, and English as the language languages, familiar and foreign. I study, read and interact in, I have learned Over the two years I have to switch between them: in been here, English has become ‘I can read news in short, it’s like having separate the crossing point between Ukrainian, speak yet interconnected brains, each them all, as well as cultures, used in different situations, and to my family in experiences and perspectives. yet all the time. For example, Russian and all While I am familiar with many I can read news in Ukrainian, the while think in speak to my family in Russian other languages (German, Ukrainian, Russian and even and all the while think in English.’ self-taught Japanese), English, English, all while my mother’s in my opinion, is the most diverse and favourite Rammstein song is playing in the versatile, a verbal network that reaches into background. the distant past and forges the future.

I have always loved reading and writing, The amount of available information in ever since I composed songs and verses as English is exactly what drew me to it when I a child; and while now I prefer prose, the art was still studying at a Ukrainian school – what of careful selection of words and meanings, compelled me to start reading everything tones and effects is still a song to me. Each from Harry Potter to Tolkien’s Silmarillion in a piece I write I try to make a symphony of language most of my classmates couldn’t put meaning – something that would leave two words together in at the time. the reader thinking and feeling exactly the 50

CANTUARIAN | 2020

emotions I create, looking at a picture I paint with words and phrases.

Reading has inspired and guided me, and the differences and similarities of the languages I think, write and feel in have taught me to grasp the essence, the sound of each word, and use them in my own writing.

Looking ahead, I want to grow and develop my writing skills; I’m also interested in studying linguistics as well as the numerous cultures of languages around the globe. As a Year 11 student, I’m looking forward to taking Literature as an A’ Level subject next year, and hopefully a German course alongside.

As the range of my classes narrows, I will be able to focus on and become more advanced in the things I’m most interested in – an opportunity I am grateful for as it will allow me to explore myself and my place in the world.

Virtual

Harmony Annalise Roy (Music Teacher)

T ‘The International College has embraced music as a means of bringing our pupils together.’

he global society is very tangible at the International College, where pupils of different nationalities, cultures and mother tongues gather together in one very friendly quadrangle on the Malthouse site. Since we are entirely international, our members have been scattered during lockdown. With often just a single year at the IC, our pupils do not have long to form friendships and to gain a sense of shared community. Lockdown jeopardised this vital process.

of contemporary songs. We have also enjoyed idiosyncratic class performances of curricular work. It can’t be often that Miles Davis’s ‘So What’ from A Kind of Blue is performed by teenagers in different hemispheres on instruments they have constructed from the contents of their kitchens.

And last summer I invited all our pupils to record soundbites from their immediate surroundings, so that I could create a Soundworld Mix of our combined audio From its beginnings, however, the experience. Sitting at my makeshift, lockdown International College has desk, it was magical to open embraced music as a means up the sound of a Ukrainian ‘It was magical to of bringing our pupils rain shower and drop it into open up the sound together. Choirs, Ukulele a musical texture alongside of a Ukrainian rain Ensemble, Piano Trio, and birdsong from a garden in the gloriously inclusive Band Beijing. shower and drop it have all served to bond into a musical texture our pupils in harmonious Ensemble performances alongside birdsong outpourings at all skill frequently convey more from a garden in levels. As every musician than the sum of their parts, Beijing.’ appreciates, the move to especially when young online education presented people are involved. There immense challenges to the creation and is then something particularly evocative sharing of music but we have found in music about drawing parts together digitally. The technology a means to assemble. metaphor of harmony is powerful, and in the virtual space of a music-technology screen Virtual performances have proved very our international community has found a popular during lockdown for this very neighbourly welcome. reason, as expertly demonstrated by the sublime music created by my colleagues in the Senior School for last summer’s Virtual King’s Week and thereafter. Individual pupils record their own parts in isolation, then send in audio files, which are compiled using technology to create a composite sound.

This method has enabled the International College Chamber Choir to cheer our community with beautifully sung renditions

CANTUARIAN | 2020

51

On the

Menu

Dan and Sandy (Chefs) What’s your background?

Dan: 18 years in catering, 8 of them at King’s, including 3 years at the IC. Sandy:I come from Indonesia. I was born and raised in Jakarta, and both my parents are Chinese. When I was 19 I moved to Austria and lived in Vienna for two years. I came to England in 1987 to study Hotel and Catering and I’ve worked in catering ever since.

How have you made the menu at The Malthouse reflect our student body?

Sandy: Our menu is based on a variety of dishes from different countries. Each year we try to change and accommodate everyone where possible.

What are your plans?

Dan: To try and better ourselves and the menu each year. One day I hope to have Andy’s job!

What are your three favourite international ingredients to work with and why?

Dan: Garlic makes every dish taste better.

Jasmine rice: I love the smell. Paprika: I like its smokey flavour.

52

CANTUARIAN | 2020

Sandy: Korean chilli paste, because it’s a deliciously different chilli paste and new in this country.

What has been the most unexpected ‘bestseller’ with our international students?

Dan: Yorkshire puddings, cauliflower cheese and southern fried chicken.

Sandy: Horseradish sauce and apple crumble.

Has anything surprised you about working with your international students?

Dan: Yes: how polite, confident and sensible they all are.

Sandy: Nothing that I haven’t experienced at work before, since I’ve been working in different countries and establishments for over 30 years.

What kitchen ingredient do you think is most under-appreciated by the general public?

Dan: Salt, paprika, cumin and good olive oil.

Sandy: Potatoes.

What’s your favourite meal that you cook for yourself?

Dan: Roast lamb on a cold Sunday with a nice glass of wine.

Sandy: Toad in the Hole in winter time.

If you could learn a new cooking technique that you don’t currently use, what would you choose?

Dan: Making my own gyoza and bao buns.

Sandy: Making my own dim sum.

Everybody at the IC (staff included!) loves your katsu chicken. Can you give us the recipe?

Dan: Some things are best kept secret!

Hopefully, when Covid is over, we would be more than happy to teach the students how to make katsu chicken.

CANTUARIAN | 2020

53

You are a Girl!

by Téa Sand, Winner of the Shell Salvete Prize 2020 When I first came to King’s, I was revolutionary.

‘A girl!’ they all said. ‘Here? At The King’s School? In 1580? Who does she think she is?’

Even my brother, Kit, often wrinkled his nose when he saw me in my school uniform: crisp, white blouse with a grey petticoat and slender skirt, hat and ribbon, and penny-loafer shoes. I suppose he acted so because he had his friends’ company around, who I expect didn’t want to spend time with his ‘odd little sister’ Margaret.

But Kit was a kind soul, so I just brushed it off.

All the same, though, I couldn’t help but feel dreadfully nervous.

Whatever would everyone think of me? Would I be accepted? I gasped loudly at the next thought. Would they even let me past the doors?

‘You’ll love it here, Peggy,’ Kit assured me a few weeks before, as if he could read my mind, ‘even if it is only temporary.’

Girls were denied an adequate education most of the time, that is until Kit entered The King’s School, Canterbury. He was the brightest of his age, a literary genius and Latin whizz, with a sharp tongue and bright mind. And because of his extraordinary abilities, the school allowed, for a few days only, his sister to tag along.

‘If she even has half the mind of young Christopher,’ the Headmaster said, ‘then I see no reason to deny her an education.’

And that is how I entered the school, as

54

CANTUARIAN | 2020

a temporary plus one to my elder brother.

I swallowed my thoughts and forced myself to calm down as I reached the magnificent mahogany doors. This was it. This was my moment. This was…

‘Mind out of the way! Oh, I say!

You must be Margaret! Hallo!’

My eyes widened as a flurry of white and grey, about the same age as me, flounced towards Kit and me, breaking ranks with the others. My eyes widened even more when I noticed a crucial detail.

‘You are a girl!’

The girl threw her head back and laughed, sending her golden curls tumbling over her back. I immediately took a liking to her.

‘Well, jolly good observation, Margaret!

You really are as bright as your brother! Oh, I say!

You are a girl too!’ Her last comment sent us both into laughter, until I regained my posture and steadied myself.

‘I do apologise,’ I began. ‘It is just that I wasn’t aware of other girls being accepted! Or do you have a genius brother too?’

I meant the last part as a joke, but at once her expression brightened.

‘My brother is a lyrical genius, and a poet.

My situation is in fact the same as yours, Peggy dear! Oh, I seem to have forgotten all of my manners! Mother will have a fit. My name is Anne. I’m dreadfully pleased to meet you!’

My eyes sparkled. In an instant, all my previous worries disintegrated, and I really began to feel at home, even though I hadn’t even walked through the gates yet!

‘So is my brother! Oh, how splendid! They can be great friends, just as we shall be.’

At that, Anne linked her arm through mine and strutted through the crowds of children, and I strutted alongside her, into my new life.

The gardens of The King’s School were fresh and green, with nightingales perched on the rooftops. The sports courts looked beautiful, as did the river and its flowery bank.

All the while, Anne and I conversed, and I was positive that our hearty laughs could be heard from the main school. On the opposite side of the glade I glimpsed my brother, Kit, and another boy walking together, just the same as Anne and me. I turned to tell Anne so, but she had already broken off and sprinted towards them, and began to embrace the friend. I ran towards them too, a little more ladylike, but still as excited as Anne, because I wished to introduce her to Kit and vice-versa.

‘Oh, William! I must show you Margaret!

She is my best friend, and you are talking to her brother!’ Anne explained matterof-factly. At this, William chuckled.

‘I am aware of such, Anne dear, as I am the literary genius.’

He winked at me and grinned.

Anne only rolled her eyes.

‘You just wait and see, William! Margaret and I will be the smartest women in all of Britain!’ Her last remark sent all of us into uncontrollable laughter, and as the sun began to set in the West, I smiled to myself at the thought of my new friends.

At last, Anne turned to me and smiled, her eyes shining, and the boys bid us goodnight and walked off.

‘Oh, my dear Peggy, I really meant what I said before!’ Anne grew serious. ‘We simply must prove ourselves smarter than our brothers, if we are ever to get anywhere in this life!’

I laughed and once again we linked arms, a token of our friendship.

‘Oh, Anne,’ I said with a new-found confidence, ‘I assure you that you and I will be superior to our families and show the world our intelligent minds. Why, if I have anything to do with it, the very names of our brothers, Christopher Marlowe and William Shakespeare, shall be replaced by Margaret and Anne!’

CANTUARIAN | 2020

55

Shelter Island James Durran (Remove) shares his memories of

a haunting holiday destination.

W

ho does not dream of being in a special place isolated from the challenges of daily life? Shelter Island, New York, is such a place and more – some 8,000 acres nestled between the North and South Forks of Long Island on the North East coast of the USA. It is surrounded by peaceful waters.

It is here that my family and I, previously residents of the bustling New York City, came to settle during the uncertain times of the global COVID-19 pandemic. Shelter Island, so aptly named, has given us a place of refuge and solitude many times these past few months. In the language of its original inhabitants, The Manhansetts, it was called Manhansack Aha Quash A Womak, which means Island Sheltered by Islands.

The feeling of protection here, both from human overcrowding and the rough Atlantic winds and seas, remains today despite being only two hours’ drive from New York City. Visitors must take a short ride by car ferry because there are no bridges connecting the island to the mainland. Ferry travel always seems like going back in time to me, even though you can make the trip sitting in your own car. You are transported into a different world.

This world traverses time. Shelter Island is rich in history, offering a door to discover what life was like, not only on the Island, but also in early colonial America, and much before that.

(some eleven generations) lived continuously in the manor house until 2006. Formerly taking up all of Shelter Island, the manor now covers just 243 acres. Sylvester Manor, as a provisioning plantation, had to support sugar cane operations in Barbados when the demand for sugar in Europe was rising at an exponential rate, and so Nathaniel Sylvester supplied his Barbados partners with wood, hog meat, wheat, and tamed or broken horses.

It was still a Native American world when Nathienal Sylvester and his wife Grisell first set foot on the island in the early 1650s. The Manhansetts, the Algonquians of Shelter Island and their neighbours, other native American peoples of the East End of Long Island, had inhabited this land for over 11,000 years.

Sylvester bought the Manhansetts’ ancestral land of Shelter Island in 1652, after a disputed first attempt in 1637, when King Charles I was on the throne of England. In 1652, however, a Grand Sachem (Indian chief) named Poggaticut signed away the island to Sylvester for just 1600 pounds of sugar. A signature on the land treaty is made up of two stick figures representing two men clasping hands in friendship, a white man and an Indian.

It was made by Poggaticut, who believed the agreements they had made would engender mutual respect. But a series of betrayals, bloodshed and threats of violence from both

On the island there is a yellow house and a garden guarded by looming boxwoods, and indeed most think of Shelter Island as a pretty beach town. But Sylvester Manor, as the house is called, has a history that is sometimes not as bright as its painted yellow sides. The island’s manor was once a working Northern plantation (most were in the South) staffed by slaves. Many don’t realise that Long Island was home to the largest population of enslaved people in the North, and Sylvester Manor played its part. A team of archaeologists, anthropologists, historians, landscape architects and others have, over the years, begun to uncover a landscape here bursting with stories. Using artifacts and archival materials they have been able to present a rare picture of Northern slavery on one of the North’s only provisioning plantations.

The manor was established in the mid-Seventeenth Century by British settler, Nathaniel Sylvester, whose family owned all of Shelter Island until the early 18th Century and whose descendants 56

CANTUARIAN | 2020

Image: www.sylvestermanor.org

sides became general, however, in the North East during the 1650s. Eventually, this included The Manhansetts, who were overwhelmingly displaced under the colonisers. This was due both to disease such as smallpox but also by the forced acquisition of lands. Those indigenous people who chose to remain were made indentured servants (a slave for a fixed term only) under colonial domination, including by the Sylvesters. So Native Americans lived and laboured on the manor for many years after.

mixing of ethnic groups, combined with the disappearance of maiden names in census documents, meant the apparent ‘evaporation’ of the Native American genetic strand, until In addition to the history of the Native Americans in this part the discovery of DNA. They seemed to have become absent of the world, historians are only now realizing how different from the population in this way. For the African people who African slavery in the North was, especially on Shelter Island, were brought here, although this was a beautiful place, it from slavery in the South. The slaves lived in the manor was also a foreign climate and a prison. There remains a house and its immediate outbuildings while burial ground in the grounds of the manor in the South slave quarters were separate believed to be for many of those who were ‘Long Island from the big house. In Sylvester Manor, enslaved. There are no tombstones to tell was home to the there is a ‘slave staircase’ which winds to the who they were. first-floor bedrooms and then to the attic largest population spaces, where the enslaved and indigenous of enslaved people Sylvester Manor is now a non-profit people were housed. The conditions were educational farm with a ‘mission to preserve, in the North.’ very hot in the summer and freezing cold cultivate and share the land, buildings and in the winter. Being so close on the manor rich history behind it.’ This is the history not site obviously blurred relations between the different just of Shelter Island, and not just of Sylvester Manor, but groups and intermarriage of Native American women with also the history of Eastern Long Island, of all Long Island, of Africans became a survival strategy at a time when whaling New York and of the United States. This is American History. was traditionally taking male Native Americans away. The Here white settlers, enslaved Africans and Native Americans worked side by side from the beginning of colonial times.

While each group played a role on the manor and in the larger plantation economy in which Shelter Island played a part, their working and living together was essential for the Sylvester family’s economic and political power in the Atlantic Northeast. Sylvester Manor provides a case study for forgotten lives, capturing American history in all its richness, but also in its suffering.

CANTUARIAN | 2020

57

out of

e c i Off Members of The Geography Department choose their favourite places on Earth.

AL HOLLAND

Lake Pukaki My favourite place? Hard to decide. I’m fortunate enough to have been raised in Hong Kong and to have travelled pretty extensively in East Asia and around the world. What makes a place special? Is it panoramic scenery, the culture you saw and the cuisine you tasted? Is it the people you are with or the people you meet along the way? Once back home, and as the years roll by, what are the memories that stick most vividly? Would you dare to go back to that treasured place – might it sour the rose-tinted ideal? New Zealand is the country: South Island, Lake Pukaki. 5:20am. Dawn. Freedom camping. Stepping outside the camper van that was our roaming home for three weeks into the chilly morning air. The sun catches the snow-covered slopes of Mt. Cook in the distance as the breeze brings the crystal waters of the lake to life. Calm. Solitude. A chance to appreciate nature at its purest and most magnificent.

CHARLES GARDINER

Walberswick Walberswick is located on the Suffolk coast and is quiet and unassuming, although often overlooked by the more popular neighbour, Southwold. Where many of my peers and their families would have taken trips to the continent, we opted for the lesserknown Walberswick as our destination of choice. We would sit by the River Blyth during the summer months and watch the annual British Open Crabbing Competition. It may not seem much, or terribly exciting, but it was and still is home. The comfort, familiarity and local Suffolkisms (some of which were very accurately portrayed in the film The Dig, starring Ralph Fiennes) certainly make this my favourite place. I would recommend a brief visit to the area for yourself, as my words could never truly describe this untouched gem on our coastal doorstep.

58

CANTUARIAN | 2020

FREYJA DOLAN

Honshu

ROBERT SANDERSON

Nuwara Eliya Surrounded by some of the most important tea plantations in the heart of Sri Lanka, Nuwara Eliya gives the explorer a chance to escape the heat, humidity and crowds on the coast. It is not just the climate that is so amenable, but the landscape itself that has the magical gift of soothing the soul.

Rolling hills covered in perfectly manicured tea plantations provide a pervading sense of peace: walking between the plants, hand outstretched, sweeping the top of the tea leaves as one’s eye follows the contours of the land to the next rolling hill. What more could I ask for as an antidote to the busy world we live in? When I write my first book, it is here that I will choose to write it, surrounded by stunning scenery in a perfect climate, with the best cup of tea in the world by my side.

The islands of Japan are without doubt one of my favourite places in the world. From towering skyscrapers in the fast-paced, ever-changing city of Tokyo, to peaceful shrines such as Miyajima, where the Torii Gate looks like it is floating over a languid bay, Honshu has everything you could want. Try eating jellyfish or getting buried in sand while contemplating life for an hour, unsure if you’ll ever emerge again: it could alter your whole perspective. Travel from Kyushu in the South to Hokkaido in the North, following the cherry blossom as pink spreads across the nation. Take the bullet train and you’ll be there quicker than you think. Watch Sakurajima smoking gently, followed by the bubbling mud pools at Beppu. Soak in an onsen and drink green tea by the gallon. But, most importantly, immerse yourself. Completely.

SUE SENSECALL & LEMON T. DOG

Our Morning Walk Not far from my front door there is an unassuming patch of rough ground with heavy clay soggy soil. Dominated by grasses mixed with a variety of sedges, wild flowers and tall teasels, it looks utterly benign, but that’s its charm. Bordered by high hedges of hawthorn, wild blackthorn and a church yard, this place is alive with nature, seeping with tranquil peace.

Lemon the Dog, delving face-first into the long grasses and pretending to have caught her imaginary prey, thinks this place is Heaven. Spring morning walks are soaking wet with dew, often kept company by song thrushes and collard doves. Summer months, sitting on drier ground, you breathe in the warm smell of hay, with a riot of colour from the flowers, often staying longer, allowing time to drift away.

Our cats lurk in the undergrowth and insist on ear scratches whilst Lemon cools off by wallowing in the shallow stream. Autumn is a bounty of sloe berries. Winter frost hollows ensure that the joy of cracking the thick puddle ice is preserved well past lunch. My little place of calm, day after day.

CANTUARIAN | 2020

59

Dreaming Spire

Photographer Matt McCardle braves the dizzy hieights of the tower crane.

60

CANTUARIAN | 2020

CANTUARIAN | 2020

61

62

CANTUARIAN | 2020

CANTUARIAN | 2020

63

War

& Peace

64

CANTUARIAN | 2020

Julian Karolyi (Modern Languages) pays tribute to his astonishing father.

M

y father was born in Paris in 1934 to Hungarian parents. His father, a colonel with the Engineering Corps, more or less abducted his mother at the age of 16 from a convent school, and so his life began in drama. My father’s earliest memories were of the Paris Opéra, of being called ‘sale Bosch’ by the French kids and, as war broke out, being pushed into a train to go back to Budapest, clutching a Tintin book to see him through the journey.

‘As the war continued and their fortunes changed, his mother would fry caraway seeds in hair glycerine to make soup.’

sent to collect meat from dead horses in the street. Once a Russian fighter strafed the street, shooting demi-johns of water from his hands. He saw German troops hanging dead from the windows of the castle in Buda as they retreated in disarray before the terrifying Red Army. In the depths of the Central European winter, Tartars rode into his city on tanks, making holes in the Danube ice to wash, while others urinated on their open wounds, eyeing with ‘He saw German disdain the horrified locals troops hanging dead shivering in bread queues.

At school in Budapest, he spoke Hungarian with a Memories deep in the from the windows French accent, establishing Hungarian consciousness of the castle in Buda recalled the great battles his identity as a perpetual as they retreated in refugee. An only child, against the Turks centuries his father away at war, before, when Hungary had disarray before the eventually to be captured been the frontier of Western terrifying Red Army.’ civilisation. The Turks had by the Russians, he found himself responsible for his used the heads of their young mother from an early prisoners as cannonballs. age. His grandfather had reputedly taken What would the Russians do? They rounded three carriages home from the opera: one up civilians to make up the numbers for for his top hat, one for his silver-topped slave labour. He and a school friend escaped cane, and a third for himself. But things were among the narrow streets of Buda. not like that for my father.

The war ended. His father survived, but after He would meet his mother after school at five years in a gulag was not in good health Gundel’s restaurant (then located inside when he returned to face a show trial. His the Gellert Hotel in Buda), where they kept a table. Yet soon the glamour of the fashionable officer’s lifestyle gave way to very changed circumstances. His mother, who had profoundly embarrassed the young Ottó by calling him Pufcsi (chubby cheeks) at a soirée where she sang, appearing in a different dress for each item, would lament how her life might have been different if he hadn’t come along.

As the war continued and their fortunes changed, his mother would fry caraway seeds in hair glycerine to make soup. He was

CANTUARIAN | 2020

65

Image: Insurgents destroy the statue of Stalin. Budabest, October 28th, 1936

men refused to testify against him even under duress, but he died shortly after. I know little of this distant figure, except his advice: ‘Always shave before your execution.’ His mother remarried, an artist, with whom my father did not get on – they moved to Szekesfehérvár and my father stayed in Budapest. He wanted to study music, but not having learnt an instrument was at a disadvantage.

Nevertheless, he so impressed the tutors at the Bela Bartók Conservatoire merely by whistling Bach that he received an offer. As a student in post-Stalinist Budapest, he was caught translating French radio broadcasts, labelled an ‘Enemy of the People’ by the communist regime (a phrase that has disturbingly resurfaced in Brexit Britain), and given an ‘open’ sentence. After class, he had to do hard labour, breaking metal in the castle.

During the ’56 Uprising, he witnessed first-hand iconic events: he crawled across Parliament Square when the police shot on the crowd from the roof tops. Many years later, we came across a photo entitled ‘Insurgents destroy the statue of Stalin’: my father was there in dashing profile. He and his mother escaped to Austria, she in a white fur coat, melodramatic as always at the border, while soldiers machine-gunned the party behind them.

They continued to London. England was then a country reaching out to refugees, albeit with casual ignorance and xenophobia. At events organised for the Hungarian students, he astonished his hosts when he spoke of the museums in Budapest. He assured them that its people lived in houses too.

In the West, my grandmother, much to my father’s further embarrassment, went to America to pursue her impossible illusions, married yet again, this time 66

CANTUARIAN | 2020

a questionable Serbian prince in exile. My father stayed in the UK and built a career as a teacher: at first with evening classes, the Open University, and as a didactic author: he published a best seller in its field, Introducing Music, and went on to write a number of ‘sequels’. There was a time when no educated family in Britain was without a copy. I would look for it on the shelves of houses I visited and judge my hosts accordingly.

Eventually he ended up in Stirling, where Music, along with Renaissance Studies, became a tiny bastion of civilisation, while the United Kingdom that had welcomed him with gentlemanly good humour in the ‘50s gave way to Thatcherite cuts in the Arts, and ‘Business Studies’ was in ascendance. When he told of his struggles on the ‘Board of Arts’, his language always evoked the great battles of life and death, civilisation and barbarism, that had shaped his early world view and fueled the vivid theatre of his imagery. He was always ready to ‘return to the battlefield’ for the cause of Culture. In retrospect, the horrors he had witnessed in his youth, which he kept largely buried, had left him with what we would now call PTSD. He once spoke to a psychologist but she was so traumatised by his stories that she couldn’t see him again. No doubt he laughed at the irony.

My childhood was studded with adventures à la Roald Dahl, pretending to poach pheasants, then back to his study constantly swelling with new books, long discussions, mini-seminars enhanced with Tokaji wine, over which a rich lost world of European inter-textual delight was unfurled with flair and enthusiasm for anyone lucky enough to be in the room. Even after cancer of the larynx nearly

‘Many years later, we came across a photo entitled ‘Insurgents destroy the statue of Stalin’: my father was there in dashing profile.’

killed him in the ‘70s, with one vocal chord, whispering with a thick accent, he continued to teach for another 30 years, and could dominate a room as soon as he walked in. His erudition, his red spotted handkerchiefs, his capacity to detain plumbers with philosophical discussion, plying them with the finest malt whisky or imported Hungarian sausage, his fierce moral sense – all were legendary. Also, his delight in anecdote and mimicry: I can imagine him now recounting the arrangements we had to make for his own funeral, imitating the garrulous couple who ran the undertakers, who warned us against wicker coffins – ‘they creak like laundry baskets, you know.’

My dear father was not able to speak at the end, much as he’d have liked to, to ask for one last glass of champagne, but his willingness to fight stupidity, cowardice and ugliness to the last was very much evident. He’d had mixed experiences at the hands of the medical profession, and finally this noble Hungarian from a lost Europe was overcome by the eagerness of a doctor in a hurry to pull the plug on the ancien régime.

Stefan Zweig, an author to whom, of course, I was introduced by my father, evokes beautifully the World of Yesterday, the old Europe, the ideal that Le Carré’s unlikely hero George Smiley also fought vainly to protect. La Grande Illusion, Renoir’s 1937 film of the Great War, also conjures the beginnings of that loss

and change: aristocratic French and German officers find they are bound by common values. That Europe, where the educated, multi-lingual and open-minded were united by a common cause of family ties, civilisation, art, music, enlightenment, seems to be ailing more than ever, and the further decline of what my father held dear would have enraged him, while he recognised its inevitability. The world is always changing, and though ‘progress’ can be desirable, something of value is often lost in the process.

Whenever I teach the Sixth Form Cyrano de Bergerac, and we get to the death of Cyrano, I realise that I knew the hero’s fighting spirit from my father long before I’d ever read the play: Que dites-vous?... C’est inutile?... Je le sais!

Mais on ne se bat pas dans l’espoir du succès!

Non! Non, c’est bien plus beau lorsque c’est inutile!

‘Eventually he ended up in Stirling, where Music, along with Renaissance Studies, became a tiny bastion of civilisation.’

It’s been a tough year for many of us. If I catch myself in self-pity, though, I remind myself of the extremes of my father’s life, and how he kept laughing, hungry for life, for wine, for conversation, whatever fate threw at him, particularly when it seemed hopeless. There is, though, one thing that he took with him, without a fold, without a stain.

When I think of my father, I will always think of his panache.

CANTUARIAN | 2020

67

Marathon Man

Mike Mawby (Geology) explains how and why he pounds the tarmac.

‘I

often hear someone say I’m not a real runner. We are all runners. Some just run faster than others. I never met a fake runner.’ Bart Yasso

With Mo Farah after completing The Great North Run.

I often think about this quote. As a runner I have found it doesn’t matter which distance I am running; the importance is that I have entered the event to begin with. Running wasn’t a natural progression for me; it happened quite by chance fairly late in my years. I can remember running my first event, the Dublin Marathon: 26.2 miles of pure pain and, after finishing in 4 hours and 13 mins I vowed I would never do that again.

The bus journey back to Belfast that evening was certainly not fun while my legs seized up over the three-hour journey.

So, after all that, what actually got me back into running? A chance entry into the Great North Run saw me running 13.1 miles from Newcastle to South Shields and ended up proving to be one of my most exciting and enjoyable experiences running. So much so, I go back to it every year and each year my time seems to get better. I often wondered what I could achieve if I actually put some thought into my training and sought out help from other like-minded people.

A famous quote from Steve Prefontaine (a US distance runner) goes: ‘It comes down to self-satisfaction and a sense of achievement.’

This attitude is what spurs me on. I wanted to push myself to see how hard I could run and the best choice I ever made was to join my local running club. Through meeting like-

minded individuals I managed to chip away at my times and I have been very fortunate to gain automatic entry into the Great North Run every year and finish under the elite finish straight, which has led to meeting up with some of the best distance runners in the world and each year they sign my race number.

Eventually I made the leap back into the marathon distance. I went from running 4 hours 13 minutes in Dublin to 3 hours and 39 mins in London, and I had to wonder how much faster could I go? Eventually the sub3-hour marathon was something I achieved and in doing so it enabled me to gain automatic qualification to run the London Marathon each year.

My race number, signed by all the elite runners, which now happens each year when I run.

68

CANTUARIAN | 2020

With Mo Farah, Brendan Foster (BBC Commentator and Organiser of The Great North Run) and New Zealand runner, Jake Robertson, at the end of the race.

Pre-race selfie with former GB international athlete, Paula Radcliffe, a previous world record holder for the female marathon.

‘As a runner I have found it doesn’t matter which distance I am running; the importance is that I have entered the event to begin with.’

Mo tells us about a funny training incident.

In 2016 I qualified for the England Masters the European Masters Championships – and team. My training went well and I ensured this time medal! That evening, after the that I underwent testing at the local race in Denmark, the sadness I felt over just university to check my missing out on a medal fitness levels through VO2 was soon put to the back ‘The sadness I felt max testing, which tells me of my mind, as I proposed over just missing out to my (now) wife at the how efficiently I use oxygen when running. on a medal was soon Tivoli Gardens on a yellow put to the back of my rowing boat.

I ran the 2017 Chester mind, as I proposed to Back to marathons. In 2016 Marathon representing England and this was an my (now) wife at the I managed something I had extremely proud moment dreamt of: the elusive Tivoli Gardens on a only for me. sub-2:45 marathon time. I yellow rowing boat.’ had achieved the standard In 2017 I represented the required to be eligible for Great Britain Masters team for my age group automatic entry into any of the marathon and travelled to Aarhus in Denmark for the majors (six in total: London, Berlin, Tokyo, European Masters Championship. The half- Chicago, New York and Boston) as well as marathon was a tough winding course and being an invited elite to some events. as I came into a stadium finish we went to the awards ceremony and waited nervously Around this time I was churning out some for the team result to come through. The GB of my most productive sessions. I often get team had a real chance of a medal, but sadly asked what sort of sessions I would run in a we were pipped to the Bronze medal by the typical training week. In the week before the German team – if only I had run my PB time event, I would taper this mileage back down of four minutes faster! again.

Testing my VO2 max at Canterbury Christchurch University.

‘I often wondered what I could achieve if I actually put some thought into my training and sought out help from other like-minded people.’

One of my present goals is to represent England again next year when Finland host

Running cobbled streets while representing the England Masters team (photo courtesy of England Athletics).

CANTUARIAN | 2020

69

Into the final stretch before the stadium finish in Arhus representing the GB Masters team.

Autographs Great North Run

An MRI of my most recent stress fracture (highlighted in the red box).

70

CANTUARIAN | 2020

Despite having now taken part in the world majors at Berlin, Boston and London, and being due to take part in New York later this year, I will always have a special place in my heart for the London Marathon.

What does the future hold for me? At the moment The crowds, the well-organised manner of the event, I’m just happy to be able to pull on my running shoes and the amazing feeling at the start and finish is and get out the door. I’m taking each day as it comes something I look forward to every year and I hope and I have some targets for later this year and next: that the organisers can arrange it in a safe and secure another chance to represent England is coming up manner for 2021 so that the projected 50,000 runners and I’m hoping to get back into shape to do that and, who are due to take part can experience the same of course, completing the Great North Run, London feeling of euphoria and exhilaration I do as they run Marathon and the New York Marathon are all on over Tower Bridge just before the halfway mark. This the cards for later this year. My current coach, Peter, feeling really spurs you on through the winding streets has been instrumental in keeping me grounded and along Canary Wharf, which I always focused so that I enjoy the little things ‘If I can enthuse find the toughest part of the course. in my running life.

Having run my most recent marathon and support a in 2019 in a PB of 2 hours and 39 mins, One of my running heroes was the late, pupil coming I am hopeful that with the right level of great Ron Hill. I was fortunate to meet through the school Ron when I lived and ran in Derbyshire. training this year I can again go quicker than I’ve ever been before.

He was the second man to break the into the sport of 2:10 barrier for the marathon and in running it is a It is true, however, that I am no spring 1974 won the Boston Marathon in a source of great joy course record time of 2:10:30. He also chicken and I’ve had my fair share of injuries. Last year, during the first completed the longest running streak to me.’ lockdown when the pandemic hit our of consecutive days, running every shores, with extra time on my hands I put all my focus day for 52 years and 39 days, even when he had a on my training. It started well, but alas it was not fractured sternum. If I could enjoy running like Ron meant to be: I overdid it and a tibial stress fracture did right up to his age I would be quite happy. put an end to any more running during Spring and Summer 2020. Weight-bearing became impossible My role at King’s as Master in Charge of Cross Country and, due to the strain put on the NHS and other also allows me to help nurture those pupils who gain services, no definitive scans could understandably be enjoyment from running as well. If I can enthuse and completed on my leg. This led to the long months of support a pupil coming through the school into the rehabilitation and no running; when I finally managed sport of running it is a source of great joy to me; we to get scans taken in October, the fracture had still have some fantastic runners at the school and we not healed. At the time, I wondered whether this was continue to support them. At present (June 2021) it. Did I need to retire from running these distances? we have an OKS pupil (Matthew Stonier) who will Could I no longer put in an 85-mile running week, but shortly be competing in the British Olympic trials for would instead be consigned to just riding the bike and the 1500m. If anyone would like advice or help with aqua-jogging? At last, after many physio sessions and running then please feel free to contact me via email seeing a specialist at King’s College Hospital, the allat mrm@kings-school.co.uk. clear eventually came at the end of January 2021, and I was told I could start the whole process again. It has Last, I will leave you with this final quote, which I think been a long and slow road to recovery, but with each channels the ethos of the sport. It doesn’t matter the run I feel I am getting back to some form of normality. level at which you run; the sport is inclusive for all.

I consistently think back to the quote I started with and I hope that, while I resume normal training, I can ‘If you run, you are a runner. It doesn’t matter how get the same level of self-fulfilment I have had before. fast or how far. It doesn’t matter if today is your first The desire to race is still within me; I just hope that day or if you’ve been running for twenty years. There my body lets me. is no test to pass, no licence to earn, no membership card to get. You just run.’ John Bingham.

d e s i m Land o r P The

There are winners and there are losers, but is an application to Oxbridge worth the hassle?

Ella Rowe (6a) The process to win a place at Oxford or Cambridge is notoriously rigorous. Only a few make it – some say through skill, others through luck of the draw. But whichever way you look at it, the obstacle course you must tackle even to be considered worthy of an offer takes no prisoners.

There are two sides to everything in life, and this process is no different. There are those who succeed, the winners, and those who do not, the losers. It’s a well-trodden, intimidating and cutthroat journey. I am a loser in the quest for a place, although I now wear the ‘Oxbridge Reject’ badge with pride, but I took on the challenge alongside my best friend, and she is a winner. So how do we feel eight months after we pressed SUBMIT on that oh-so-important UCAS application?

However, there are negatives. The time and effort required for an uncertain outcome cannot be overlooked; neither can the anxiety and stress. To be successful you must be fully dedicated but when you still end up being rejected it makes you rethink everything. The burn-out is real; the pressure is real; and the interview process is most definitely real. Yet it is the interview process that is the best part of it all: to discuss your passion with a world authority in your subject is worth it all in itself. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Strangely, the successful applicant’s outlook is similar.

The benefits, of course, are enormous. You are pushed to read in depth about the subject you want to study, and you immerse yourself in extra literature. Your bond with your teachers becomes stronger, your work skills improve and you learn the art of prioritisation. The interview process is inspiring.

After such a long time to digest what my Oxbridge application meant to me, I have an answer. My Oxbridge application was an ‘The burn-out is aspirational goal to further myself, to push real; the pressure myself and see what I could accomplish.

Yet the pressure creates a warped sense As they say, shoot for the stars and you’ll of reality that makes you believe there is is real; and the hit the moon. I knew it would be a massive beyond acceptance to Oxbridge. interview process is nothing undertaking that offered no promise of This takes high expectations to a dangerous most definitely real.’ level and leads to perfectionism in success, yet I knew that you can never succeed without putting yourself in a everything you do. This, in turn, makes you position to thrive. On one hand I loved the process; it unable to praise yourself for your achievements, because gave me something to really sink my teeth into and work you are constantly comparing yourself to others and your towards. The thought of being surrounded by some of the past self. best minds in the world, the desirability from employers that the Oxbridge title offers you and the notorious Despite the harsh reality, I would do it all over again in a unobtainability of it all made it truly attractive. heartbeat. And I would encourage anyone else to do it as well. You cannot be accepted if you don’t put yourself into a Also, I’ve learnt a lot about myself through deciding to position to be accepted. The process gives you confidence submit my application, both positive and negative. Most that is hard to find elsewhere and prepares you for difficult importantly, I’ve learnt the art of perseverance in the face future ventures in the workplace and in the rest of life. of failure and setback. And I’ve found a love for learning outside the curriculum that I never had before, and a Therefore, the price of a trip to The Promised Land is not confidence in and love for my ‘specialist subject’ (as they extortionate. Instead, it is worth every penny. It is not the would deem it on Mastermind) so that Ancient History and final destination that you pay for, but the journey. The Archaeology was something I loved enough to dedicate experiences and lessons learned prove invaluable, even if myself to in the future. I never would have felt this if I you don’t reach the final destination in the end. hadn’t applied to Oxbridge.

‘I’ve found a love for learning outside the curriculum that I never had before, and a confidence in and love for my ‘specialist subject’ (as they would deem it on Mastermind).’

CANTUARIAN | 2020

71

My

Waterloo 72

CANTUARIAN | 2020

Bursar Mark Taylor tells The Cantuarian about his military ancestors.

I

Major-General Thomas William Taylor

‘A fictionalised version of Morris was played by Mark Burns in the 1968 film The Charge of the Light Brigade.’

always knew I had a long continuous in the thick of it, particularly at the end. line of military ancestors (six However, one event is worth recalling. Lord generations) but kept fairly quiet about Uxbridge, Wellington’s second-in-command the part one of them played at The Battle of and Commander of the Cavalry, was sitting Waterloo. Thomas William Taylor, a captain on his charger beside the Duke just when in the 10th Hussars, was responsible for the final advance was starting. The French finding and guiding the Prussians to the artillery had almost ceased firing, but one of battlefield, but the family story goes that he their last shots flew straight over the neck got slightly lost while leading the way, which of Copenhagen, the Duke’s charger, and is why they were late. So smashed into Uxbridge’s the Taylor family was nearly right knee. ‘By God! I’ve ‘In 1833 he was responsible for the British lost my leg,’ cried Uxbridge. losing one of our most Wellington turned to him officially appointed famous battles! and said, ‘Have you, by Groom of the God?’ and galloped off.

Bedchamber and However, I was delighted to be invited, with my youngest But Captain Taylor was was fully occupied son, to attend the St. Paul’s close at hand, and, to ease as a courtier and Waterloo Service in 2015 to Uxbridge’s pain, pulled off confident of the King his boot. In later years, mark the 200th anniversary of the battle. It was a Uxbridge, who was created until 1837.’ remarkable service followed Marquess of Anglesey for by a reception in The his part in the battle, always Guildhall. At the reception I was introduced asserted that this action had saved his life to the present Duke of Wellington and I – probably because it helped to prevent apologised for the part my ancestor played, gangrene developing before the amputation but he dismissed it and explained that he was effected. had held a banquet the previous evening for a number of the key relatives involved in the A collection of Captain Taylor’s letters sent battle, and then asked me to guess who was to his family during the campaign has been the only person to be late to the banquet. It published, which gives a detailed account of was the current Prince Blücher, he said, so life during the campaign. the Prussians had done it again!

Major-General Thomas William Taylor Captain Taylor’s exploits did seem to go down quite well all those years ago, despite the lateness of the Prussians’ arrival, since the record we have found of the Duke’s reaction to the news of the arrival is:

General Reynell George Taylor

Hearing this, the great Duke said warmly to Taylor: ‘Damn me, Sir, you have brought the tidings I prayed for; accept my gratitude.’

The story of the battle is well known, and the 10th Hussars and Captain Taylor were

CANTUARIAN | 2020

73

‘Parry prints a wonderful summary of Reynell Taylor’s life from two identical memorial brasses.’

After Waterloo, in 1831 Taylor was in London for the coronation of his friend, the Duke of Clarence, as King William IV, ‘The Sailor King’, and the next year joined the royal entourage. In 1833 he was officially appointed Groom of the Bedchamber and was fully occupied as a courtier and confidant of the King until 1837. He was then regretfully released from these duties by the King on being promoted to Colonel and, at the same time, appointed Lieutenant Governor of The Royal Military College at Sandhurst.

NCOs in the OTC c1913

The King died in that same year but Colonel Taylor’s services to him were not overlooked by his niece, Victoria, and he was appointed a Companion of the Order of the Bath in her Coronation Honours List. He spent the rest of his life at Sandhurst, being promoted Major General in 1845, and it was while he was there, in 1852, that he was appointed Colonel of the 17th Lancers and his fifth child and fourth daughter, Amelia, met and married Captain William Morris of that regiment.

Captain William Morris Another ancestor was William Morris, who ended up as a captain commanding the 17th Lancers in the Charge of the Light Brigade. There is a wonderful book all about his exploits, called The Pocket Hercules. A fictionalised version of Morris was played by Mark Burns in the 1968 film The Charge of the Light Brigade, with Vanessa Redgrave as his wife (renamed Clarissa in the film) and David Hemmings as his friend, Nolan.

General Reynell George Taylor (1822-1886) Reynell Taylor was the youngest son of Maj-Gen Thomas William Taylor and was a General of the Indian army. His biography was written by Ernest Gambier Parry (brother of Hubert Parry, composer).

In that book Parry prints a wonderful summary of Reynell Taylor’s life from two identical memorial brasses. One of these stands in Lahore Cathedral and the other, on the wall in East Ogwell Church, stands opposite where Reynell used to sit Sunday after Sunday.

Admiral Lord Rodney (1718-1792) I ought also to mention my naval ancestors, one of whom was Admiral Rodney, best known for his commands in the American War of Independence, particularly his victory over the French at the Battle

74

CANTUARIAN | 2020

Avro 504

of the Saintes in 1782. It is often claimed that he was the commander to have pioneered the tactic of breaking the line. Remarkably I have two of the original decanters from his ship, not flat-bottomed as the Rodney decanters now are made, but squarer in shape, and forged in wonderfully old and teared glass.

And then there was me!

I only spent a short a short period of time in the Army and left as a Major having served in the 4/7th Royal Dragoon Guards, a Cavalry regiment.

I was stationed in Germany at the tail end of the Cold War and my regiment was equipped with Chieftain tanks. My last job before I left was to help set up and launch the Allied Rapid Reaction Corps (ARRC), initially in Bielefeld before it moved to Rheindahlen. It was the first of the Reaction Force Corps set up after the end of the Cold War. It now includes 22 nations that have assigned troops to it and it commanded the Land Forces of NATO’s first-ever deployment as part of the Implementation Force operation in Bosnia in 1995/6, and was again deployed as the headquarters commanding Land Forces during the Kosovo War in 1999.

Admiral Lord Rodney

Mark Taylor

‘I was stationed in Germany at the tail end of the Cold War and my regiment was equipped with Chieftain tanks.’

One question I’m asked quite a bit is why I joined the same regiment as my father. The truthful answer is that, whilst at Sandhurst, I managed to spend my uniform allowance seeing my then-girlfriend in London at every possible opportunity. So when it came to final regimental applications and, because my father had just retired from the army, I asked if he minded if I joined his regiment. He was delighted and said I must have all his regimental uniform!

My last words must go to my father, who retired as a Major-General in 1985, his last two jobs being Commander British Forces Cyprus and then Chief of Staff of the Headquarters of the British Army of the Rhine (HQ BAOR). But, more importantly, I must express my thanks for his regimental uniform, which enabled me to save up and marry the girlfriend I referred to earlier, and who to this day is in Canterbury and still putting up with me! 

‘It is often claimed that he was the commander to have pioneered the tactic of breaking the line.’

Mark Taylor is currently Bursar and Clerk to the Governors at King’s, Former Chair of the Independent Schools Bursars Association (ISBA), and presently Chair of the Association of Governing Bodies of Independent Schools (AGBIS), recently elected as the Vice Chair of the Independent Schools Council (ISC).

Battle of the Saintes, April 1782.

Painting by François Aimé Louis Dumoulin CANTUARIAN | 2020

75

‘Outside, in shops, restaurants.

People spoke with such politeness, it shocked me.’

England,

England

The Cantuarian asked some Shells to say what England means to them. They were characteristically frank.

England is a place of education where I can get away from the boredom and the heat of the desert where I live. I love England very much but there are a few issues. The trip to England is tedious, more than 12 hours of travel, but it is a once-in-a-lifetimeopportunity and you can’t do it like this anywhere else.

England has one of the best education systems in the world and an incredible history, with plays and poems which are good for someone who enjoys writing, like myself. I feel safer and happier here than where I live.

I would recommend people live in England but more specifically Canterbury because it is a peaceful city and there is quite a bit to do.

Before England I lived in Kazakhstan and Russia. My older sister chose boarding school in England. A few years later, I chose the same. Mom and I flew to London to look at schools.

Out of three, I liked only one. As soon as I walked in, I imagined how nice it would be. I did the entrance exam. The time came. We packed everything and flew back to London.

I was beyond thrilled. We drove to school and I said goodbye to my mom. I was excited but nervous. As time flew by, I adjusted, and it became one of the most wonderful things that ever happened to me. It was a new start. I learned about the country and came to love it. Everything was different, but I liked that a lot. Moving to England also changed my personality. Because I went to boarding school, I became a lot more independent. I started speaking kindlier. I always admired how kind everybody was in England. Outside, in shops, restaurants. People spoke with such politeness, it shocked me. I think that the comfort I find in living here is connected to the diversity. I see different nationalities everywhere in England. It’s comforting to see, because moving from another country is stressful. I worried about being different. Seeing such diversity made me realize that all these people had adjusted, so I could too. England makes me feel safe and welcome. I find joy here and believe that moving here was one of the best decisions I ever made. England is where I grew up, where a lot of my family has lived and it’s really where I want to be. My parents fled here from the USSR. My dad and his mother did not like the communist regime in Russia and came here. They had an opportunity that my grandad had given them to flee, and they took it. It meant risking my grandad’s life to let his family live. My grandad did survive to the age of 89 and died a couple of years ago. My mum found that her work as an artist was better done in England. England has had its high points but it’s now receding in my opinion. Since Covid, it has not been going very well. To me music is also important in England. Because of The Beatles and The Rolling Stones I chose jazz piano and listen to UK bands most of the time. England has defined me as a person and changed what I like, how I speak, what I like to do. And that’s a good thing. England to me sounds fascinating, especially because of its difference in culture, history and general attitudes. Somewhere far, far away in England you might find a little street filled with various people mingling with each other, careless of social status and race. But here in China (especially in places that don’t attract foreigners) it’s uncommon to meet someone who isn’t Chinese and, if you weren’t, you’d see people staring at you like you’re a zoo animal. It’s getting better because it’s mostly the older generation who point and gossip. Industrialisation has affected China immensely. Most products are now stamped with the ominous words ‘Made in China’. Many years ago, in England, people literally dropped dead because of ‘smog’, when bad weather combined with industrial pollution. Nowadays it’s much better there, but in China you still get smoker’s lung the moment you arrive.

Overall, England sounds fascinating and life there would be amazing for me, as long as I’m not disappointed by harsh reality and end up disillusioned.

76

CANTUARIAN | 2020

My parents were both born in England. My dad’s mum was a German immigrant and my mum’s dad was raised in India as the son of a famous politician. My personal experience has been lovely and peaceful but I can’t ever see the good without thinking about the bad. I live in a diverse area.

From my bedroom window I can see the Heron Tower, the Nat-West Tower and St. Paul’s Cathedral. But if I go to the other side of my house, I can see old council flats and too many homeless people. It hurts me to see myself living this comfortable lifestyle, having a good education, being able to eat more than enough food, having a bed to sleep in, having warmth and my parents having well-paid jobs, while others have to choose between water and warmth. It took me too long to realise that the way I live is not normal and because of this I know I want to work in England, not because I think it is a successful country but so I can help it become one. Of course England is beautiful and of course there is good, for example the NHS. But we can’t use the good to cover up the bad and I believe that, as a country, we need to face the truth and make those changes that give every child an even playing field for the future, every adult a good paying job and everyone a chance, not just the white ones with money. Most of my life I’ve lived in Greece. Whenever I think of England I think of fields because of my uncle’s big farm. London is high-class compared with Athens because of technology. Greece has no giant skyscrapers. I went to an English school in Greece and my father is English but now I go to an English boarding school. England is my second home, literally so since we bought a house in London. Thanks to having an English father I got the chance to join a school like King’s, which is great for me because English is the most spoken language in the world. Being English is a big advantage in Greece because Greek people take English people very seriously, and any Greek child would ask you to teach them English. On the downside, England is so important in the world that it is crowded, which enabled the spread of Covid-19. And with Brexit it’s not easy to have a relationship with two countries that are not both independent. If I compared my feelings to a compass, I would consider Greece my North and England my South. North and South are never confused with each other and both come first. When I see wild fires in Australia and earthquakes in New Zealand and BLM marches in America, I’m glad to be in England. England is supposed by the non-English to have rain all day every day, but that’s unfair. And an ordinary British person is supposed to drink loads of tea sitting down by the fire. I personally don’t do that, but on a Sunday afternoon after a lovely Sunday lunch that is exactly what my parents want to do. British culture is heavy on the nation’s history. In 2018 my prep school had a big service for 100 years since World War One. My school had opened in 1883, so some of its pupils had been killed. England is a great place to live.

Free healthcare is a huge advantage. But the winters are not.

England is my home, and being English makes me proud. The countryside is where I am most comfortable. I intend to live in England always. Our history is long and interesting and although my country has done many terrible things, for example slavery during the empire, we have come a long way from those times, although there is a way to go. I hope we keep our wild places and soon lead the world in being an eco-country.

‘It took me too long to realise that the way I live is not normal and because of this I know I want to work in England.’

CANTUARIAN | 2020

77

‘In England you might find a little street filled with various people mingling with each other, careless of social status and race.’

England is where I was born and have grown up. I love boarding school because it has made me appreciate cultural diversity: for many of my friends England is unfamiliar and new. I have lived a very privileged life in a safe country. Just think: we have free healthcare and education. England is also a progressive country, although there is much more to achieve. As a woman I’ll be given the same respect as a man and by law I’ll be able to vote and run for political leadership if I so wish. Many people in the world still don’t have such opportunities due to their gender or race. England has sheltered me a lot but I don’t think I will be here forever. I long to travel and see more of the world, working in fashion or media. Many people would love to look out of their window and see fields and trees, but I would love to live in a city that is different and unfamiliar. If I do leave one day, I will always feel safe coming back. I was born and raised in London before moving even further South. I have never known anywhere else as home. I always look forward to trips away but never dread the return. Change is always coming. One is population. On such a small area of land it’s a problem. Meadows and fields are destroyed for houses. Forests and wildlife are killed to make space. Our great heritage is being washed away and our culture is dying.

Few people go to church these days as part of their daily lives and small village churches are emptying as time passes. There is always a dark and depressing feel to everything during winter in England, as if the country dies only to be reborn in the spring. But England will always be a safe place for everyone, no matter their background or ethnicity or why they are here. England is home to me. I’ve never been abroad for more than two weeks, and nowhere but India and Western Europe.

I am proud to be English. The culture (and stereotypes, tea and scone-eating) is rich: deep Romantic poetry, soaring symphonies and hymns and (not-too-bad) food. And of course there is the history.

One country only around 150 miles wide conquering a quarter of the world – now, that is incredible. There is also the European culture melted into England, Viking, French, German and Italian, as well as the culture that has come in more recently, from the Caribbean, India and China. England is home. It’s a place of great minds and a base for many people of great importance and influence. I am lucky to be living here.

78

CANTUARIAN | 2020

I wasn’t born in England and arrived recently. The expectations planted in my head before I came were wildly inaccurate. Instead of bustling cities I found rain, a lot of rain. I knew there would be a lot of rain, but nothing could prepare me for the almost-always omnipresent grey clouds staring down at me. Also, England is not as grand as I imagined. At least my expectation that some people in England would drink tea all the time was true. As a person who learned American English before arriving in England, I was shocked by the language Britons use. I did not know what basic words such as ‘loo’ or ‘prep’ meant. Also, the British accent was unexpected.

The architecture of England, its food and climate were other minor surprises. I already have great memories.

Hiking through lush forest and finding gold, amethysts, an ammonite the size of my head and fossils made out of iron on the Jurassic Coast, have all happened in England.

By itself, England is just like everywhere else. It’s the people and the culture that truly make up the soul of England.

england home not smart not swanky just home and trees beautiful trees that grow so high always waving rustling giving life love beautiful rolling downs luscious grass and chatting streams all the time see things grow and nothing seems as lovely just thinking about younger me gives me pleasure memories of playing in the garden playing music playing ping pong playing trampoline will always remember elation the dog climbing up on my lap during movies and the salty air of the sea in cornwall and the sweet little village of polruan going on the ferry to fowey speeding around the beach at lantivet and lantic going for massive dog walks england happy childhood yet to finish miss breeze the joy I experienced riding with her will never leave me love england for every moment I have experienced living here going to prep school fun if stressful grown so much since I left now it is just another strong memory love church at home with chickens breaking and entering and lanteglos with the little high up window sometimes put flowers in and graveyard where grandma now lies will never experience anything quite like the effects of england on my young heart ever again. England is home to me. I’ve never been abroad The English summertime is incredible but there’s also the crisp air of for more than two weeks, and nowhere but India winter, which forces you to spend time around a fire and bond with and Western Europe. I am proud to be English. family against the coldness. It’s magical. London is stunning, buzzing The culture (and stereotypes, tea and sconewith tourists and people commuting. But when it’s late at night and eating) is rich: deep Romantic poetry, soaring you get on the tube and a man three feet away pulls out a knife, your symphonies and hymns and (not-too-bad) food. opinion can change. This is what happened to me. In England there are And of course there is the history. One country still many problems. Coronavirus has proven how selfish the English can only around 150 miles wide conquering a quarter be. It’s upsetting to see people not taking it seriously. It pains me to say of the world – now, that is incredible. There is racism and sexism are still such issues in a county I love to call home. also the European culture melted into England, England has been the best place for me to grow up but I’ve also been Viking, French, German and Italian, as well as the able to travel the world and use England as a hub. I might not want to culture that has come in more recently, from the live in England for the rest of my life but my childhood is full of fond Caribbean, India and China. England is home. memories. I wouldn’t necessarily recommend an English education It’s a place of great minds and a base for many because not every school is like King’s. I’ve had such a variety of lessons people of great importance and influence. I am that include different cultures, religions, people and places that diversity lucky to be living here. doesn’t faze me in the slightest. As a result, paradoxically I love England even more. I am pretty English – very English, actually, but I am more than just a tea-drinking, crumpet-eating lord. England is safe.

Of course, there are places which are dangerous, but for the most part England is safe. You can think what you want in England. You have free speech and freedom of expression and the government is not a dictatorship, which is always a bonus. One major problem in England is class. I know that’s a bit rich when I come from a high-class place like King’s but it’s still a valid concern. People visiting from abroad think that everyone is a crumpet-eater. One of the dodgiest places you can go in England is the suburbs of London because it is very poor there but if you drive 20 minutes into London it is very rich. The English past is racist and England is still racist, but I hope not as much. The slave trade was horrendous. The education in England is okay. I mean, at least everyone can go ‘By itself, England is just to school because of government funding. However, schools like everywhere else. It’s need to get more funding like they used to have before the cuts. Many governmental departments have been privatized, the people and the culture like the AA and some dentist thingy. The NHS needs to get that truly make up the more funding and it almost looks like the government is trying soul of England.’ to privatize it as well, but I am not sure.

CANTUARIAN | 2020

79

SHOWTIME! Zara Fish tells us about her career in theatre at King’s.

A

t a young age, like a lot of girls I went to ballet classes, which involved a lot of skipping and pointing of feet, or ‘happy feet’ and ‘sad feet’, as we used to say. This was my first taste of performing.

I then moved on to ‘funky dance’, which does exactly what it says on the tin. We used to wear long uni-tards, not the most fashionable item of clothing.

Lots of people have influenced me, not just by how they perform but also in their style of writing, one being Alan Bennett. Bennett is probably best known as a playwright but he is also an actor and prose author. I especially like ‘Talking Heads’ a series of dramatic monologues, individually different.

He originally wrote these for performance in 1988 and they were re-made in 2020.

Comparing the original monologues with the new ones, I still believe they have a strong message and haven’t lost their power.

I especially like how Bennett’s characters break the fourth wall. This gives the audience and actor a connection and a real sense of intimacy which keeps you engaged, even gripped.

At King’s my first performance was also a monologue, on the drama scholarship audition day: ‘All I want is Scruffy back’. There is a huge difference between performing a monologue and then moving on to the cornucopia of expression wrapped up in a musical. I equally love both! I love the control I have over delivering a monologue, but performing with other people is exhilarating because you get to share the excitement. I’m lucky at King’s since I have got to experience lots of different styles and performances, from monologues to musicals, and more recently immersive theatre.

I love, in theatre, very emotional and heartbreaking plays, but I also relish a slightly comedic take on a play or a sense of lightheartedness. I think it’s crucial to give the audience a bit of both, and to have those two emotive elements juxtapositioned is something I enjoy and that’s when you can really play with the dynamics of a piece.

My favourite play to watch is The Mousetrap.

I love the comedic edge this has on a normal 80

CANTUARIAN | 2020

murder mystery, and perhaps this can be every production and every performance is better achieved on stage than in film within unique, it will never beat the all-consuming the genre. I love how The experience of going on stage Mousetrap has a timeless for the first time.

‘Performing with value because it’s relevant for each generation. This is For me theatre is about acting, other people is why it’s the world’s longest- exhilarating because but for many other people running play, going strong about lighting, directing you get to share the it’s since 1952. or even costume. I love how excitement.’ theatre is a big team effort My favourite production as and everybody contributes. a performer was Little Shop For example, for the musical I of Horrors just under two years ago, in the will never forget we had an amazing set with brand new theatre at King’s. I played one of the infamous giant plant. I performed a lot the Ronettes, which was extremely trying on a raised platform with lots of led lights, physically given the combination of acting, which was a first. One of the most rewarding dancing and singing, but it was definitely parts of performing for me is when a couple worth it. Also, I will always remember in Year of days before the opening night we do a 4 playing Mole from Wind in the Willows. dress run. This is when everything comes This comes a close second as it was all together. Personally, I think the lighting and very new and exciting for me. Even though set puts the icing on the cake. Showtime!

in incredible facilities, and treated as if you are working performers, you get a glimpse into what it would be like to have this as your lifestyle. You hear everyone’s excitement, even if people’s mouths aren’t moving. You just know. So nobody can wait to get out and perform.

When you get ready for a show, a whole new level of excitement is felt. You walk into the dressing rooms and are met with a wall of floral-smelling makeup and sweet perfume.

Everyone wants to look their best. One of my favourite musicals is Waitress. Centred on an American diner, you walk into the theatre and are met with the smell of freshly baked pie. You are suddenly immersed in this other world, completely separate from reality. You are given the possibility to escape. I don’t think any smell is remotely similar to that of the theatre. It is separate from anything else, which in itself is reflected onstage. You are watching something that doesn’t exist in our reality. It is simply a fragment of people’s imaginations, a story that has been shared with the rest of the world.

enormous range of facial expressions, many smiles included. In the theatre you can see happiness.

When I was seven, I went with my best friend to see Mamma Mia. I can’t remember much of the show, but one thing I do remember is the taste of the ice cream at the interval. This is seen as a tradition among many people, especially within my family. Somehow, the ice cream just tastes different when you have it in the middle of a show. You can taste the suspense for the next half of the performance rising with each spoonful. You try and finish it quickly, hoping that it will mean the second half starts sooner. But the longer the wait, the more exciting it becomes.

My favourite thing to hear is the sound of the audience’s chatter before a show is about to begin. Each family or group is having their own private conversation, no doubt about the amazing experience they are about to have. You can’t quite make out what everyone is saying, but backstage you can understand the overriding theme.

Everyone wants to be there. Everyone feels lucky to be there. And then, of course, you get the occasional person who snaps, ‘Quiet Backstage!’ Everyone among the cast offers a slight giggle, understanding the silence is necessary to fuel the audience’s anticipation.

During my first musical at King’s, I can still remember the degree of excitement I felt when I heard the backstage announcements: ‘Cast, this is your five-minute call.’ I had dreamt of hearing that in the professional industry, but not in our very own school theatre. But The Malthouse doesn’t feel like a school theatre. Completely immersed

At the theatre, you feel freedom, both when watching and participating in a show. When you go onto the stage when nobody else is there, you feel so at peace that awareness of anything else is completely lost. It is so calming to know that the theatre is a space which will always exist, even if the things around you cease to be. To me, it will always be a place of support and community, which can be felt by simply being in the building.

The theatre radiates a comfort that I have never felt anywhere else. It is a truly special place. All five of your senses are engaged, meaning your whole existence concentrates on what is being performed. All worries are lost and your focus is disciplined. Drama is the way that people express themselves. It is the height of creativity, allowing for diverse thoughts in which nothing is too extreme. To me, drama is a space where no thoughts are too wacky, something that is rare to see in our world today.

CURTAIN UP!

Daisy Ledger reflects on her theatrical career at King’s.

O

ne of the first things I get asked, when I tell people how much I love performing, is, ‘Don’t you get nervous when all those people are looking at you?’ But the thing is it’s never me that people are looking at. It’s a character – someone who is made up and doesn’t really exist. It is impossible for people to be looking at me because when I am on the stage I am not me. I am someone else, free to express their qualities in any way I deem permissible.

That is what drama is to me – daring to be someone other than yourself.

Being a part of the theatre is a feast for the eyes. The red seats out there are suited for royalty, something you get to experience each time you are about to perform.

When you’re on stage, looking out into that sea of red, there’s nothing better than the comfort of the velvet. Each seat has its own individual number, each with its own significance. It reminds you that each person in the audience has come to see you, both individually and collectively as a cast.

The bright lights are met onstage with an

CANTUARIAN | 2020

81

Game

On!

Greg Hunter (Deputy Head Co-Curricular) shares his

passion for Aussie Rules.

82

CANTUARIAN | 2020

‘My idols were about to play their match and I was literally metres away from them in their final warm-up preparations.’

G

rowing up in Melbourne as a teenager in the 1980s and early 1990s feels very different to life now. No mobile phones, no internet and a greater trust in community meant that I enjoyed an outdoor play and sports culture few experience now. As the final leaves of Autumn fell and the smell of leather on willow dissipated, so began the excitement of thousands of boys and girls across the southern states of Australia. Footy season had arrived!

Australian Rules Football began in the mid-1850s when a boy from Rugby School, Tom Wills, returned from the Motherland to the colony of Victoria and brought with him a modernised version of Rugby Football. Little did Tom realise that the game he brought some 170 years ago would become the most popular football code across Australia, with thriving women’s and men’s leagues. Without exaggeration it was and now certainly is a way of life in Victoria.

From an early age I would go to the local park for a kick, play every lunchtime at school and enjoy the opportunity to play for the local club. I can still remember playing for my school in the biggest match of the year, vs Rosebud, an away trip to the south coast. We won by three points. I was pleased with my game, and the McDonalds on the way home was sweet! What was also very special was that our PE teacher and coach was also the Captain of one of the AFL clubs. That was before the AFL players were paid professionally.

Probably more important to me was my love for the Richmond Football Club, ‘The Tigers’. Whilst we would go occasionally to the home of football, the MCG, as a family, it was not enough for a passionate 10-year-old. It is hard to imagine that I travelled all over Melbourne at that young age, watching The Tigers play, catching trains, trams and walking the streets. My new best family became the Official Richmond Cheer Squad. My greatest memories include going out on the ground to ‘put up the banner’. The banner is basically huge pieces of taped-together crepe paper for the players to run through as they emerge onto the ground to cheers. My idols were about to play their match and I was literally metres away from them in their final warm-up preparations. Life was so much simpler and different

then, and my parents were in no way being negligent in allowing me such freedom.

Through my teenage years and into adulthood, my support for footy continued even though I rarely played in matches myself. Richmond was by a long way the worst performing team in the competition.

Yet I would still go, week in, week out, typically seeing only a few victorious games a year. Therefore, when we won it was like we had won the Premiership Final!

In adulthood, I relished going to the footy, standing and cheering with the men in the Cheer Squad, watching the game. Then came the interstate trips, usually a couple each year, to watch The Tigers play. I always took the opportunity to catch the two-hour flight to Brisbane for our match at the Gabba, Brisbane. Born in Brisbane, I still have family living in the state and it was a convenient excuse. Everyone knew the real reason for my trip!

Fast forward to my arrival in England in 2005, and my passion for Aussie Rules has never dwindled. My sons in particular love the game, to the point where my youngest has the honour of his middle name being officially ‘Tiger’. Luckily these days, my memberships and subscriptions enable me to watch any game live. I still have all those familiar feelings of nervousness when Richmond plays their games even though I live well over 10,000 miles away with up to an 11-hour time difference. Ironically, Richmond is currently the powerhouse team of the competition having won three out of the last four premierships. Oh, what I would have given to be present at one of those grand finals!

King’s is the third school in which I have had the pleasure of teaching whilst living in England, and in each of these schools I have had the privilege of introducing some of the pupils to Aussie Rules. Last academic year, our Head of Rugby, Mr. Lister, saw it as progression for me to lead a session of the great game with some of the rugby boys. Perhaps in the future there may be an opportunity for Aussie Rules to be played more consistently at King’s and in the UK. Now that would be cultural boost! CANTUARIAN | 2020

83

The

True d o o G One

84

CANTUARIAN | 2020

Daniel Cardinal (Head of Philosophy) asked

his pupils to tell us what they do.

Philosophy in the sixth form

by Aliah Hussain (6b)

P

hilosophy by its nature involves the study of study of knowledge and rational belief. This opened the fundamental questions of knowledge, up doors to a recognition that the reality we seem reality and human existence. However, since to live in depends on our understanding of it and it’s often thought to be a redundant or trivial subject, that how the credibility given to different actors is a question I am often approached with is, ‘What is subject to factors such as one’s gender. This led me to research the area known as the point of studying philosophy?’ ‘feminist epistemology’, something There are definite stereotypes ‘Much like a I have found extremely interesting, associated with the subject and it temperamental girlfriend especially in light of recent events is not uncommon for a friend to or boyfriend, Philosophy which have highlighted the roll their eyes when I bring it up. disadvantages women face on a ‘What is the meaning of life?’ and is hard work, time‘Does this chair really exist?’ they consuming and will rarely daily basis. mock. Socrates, the great Ancient provide much certainty Once the prospect of wrapping my Greek philosopher, himself had about anything.’ head around these concepts was to face these criticisms, with just vaguely in sight, however, I was his contemporaries telling him he should grow up and use his talents to pursue a faced with a barrage of new ideas. Metaphysics, proper career. While I admit from the outside it logic, philosophy of language, moral philosophy, and can look irrelevant to our everyday lives in contrast so on, are just mere scratchings upon the surface of with apparently more dynamic and contemporary what is a vast discipline to study. Something I find subjects, after my short time studying Philosophy I unique about philosophy is it encourages you to think freely about the ideas for yourself, and so to can confidently say this is not the case. develop your own idiosyncratic take on things. This To approach the question ‘Why philosophy?’ I have may be something to consider when comparing reflected on what I have gained from studying philosophy to other A’ Level choices, since wider it these past three terms. As a student, I confess I reading of niche topics and a broad understanding have never taken too well to learning loads of facts, that can be drawn upon in conversation and debates but the aim of philosophy is not to master a body are invaluable life skills. of information, so much as to think clearly and strategically through it. I consider myself fortunate to Much like a temperamental girlfriend or boyfriend, have immersed myself in the subject, as it is a rare philosophy is hard work, time-consuming and will privilege to be trained to analyse arguments critically, rarely provide much certainty about anything, but as well as construct logically sound premises whilst for the ‘not so faint-hearted’ I could not recommend discerning subtle assumptions and nuance. With this it more. Although undeniably a challenge, the set of skills, the process of learning to eloquently adroitness cultivated through learning philosophy, in express your thoughts through debate and writing is my humble opinion, seems to grow simultaneously with all other aspects of life; whether that is another also substantially galvanized. academic subject, day-to-day decision-making, Once exposed to the world of philosophy, it is hard or general self-reflection and interaction with the to escape. Early on, I was sucked into a proverbial world. black hole of intrigue about epistemology, the

CANTUARIAN | 2020

85

Language and how we see the world

by Florrie Stringer (6b)

D

o Russian speakers see colours differently from English speakers? The Russian language has two widely used words that cover the range that in English we call ‘blue’: there is ‘siniy’ (dark blue) and ‘goluboy’ (light blue), and some have suggested this actually means that they see two distinct colours where English speakers see one. There are multiple languages which have one word to cover both green and blue. Does this consequently mean they are blind to the difference between the two?

individual doesn’t have their own perception of reality, regardless of the language they speak? We will never know for certain.

Additionally, it would be naïve to think that no other factors are at play. Even if it could be proved that perception of reality does differ across the globe, it may not only be language which contributes to this. Is the way we perceive reality innate regardless of the language we learn? What shapes it, nature or nurture? These were the counter-arguments which held the most weight within the project.

Consider another example. As in most European languages, nouns in Spanish have genders, but does this influence the way Spanish speakers perceive inanimate objects? Do they think of the things around them as having genders like people? And does this have any wider implications for how we see the world generally?

It was this kind of question, accompanied by the lack of knowledge concerning the effect of language on our thinking, which motivated my research for the extended project and set me on a philosophical journey. Under the title, ‘Does our language affect our perception of reality?’ I investigated a controversial linguistic hypothesis, which originates from the early Twentieth Century. Labelled the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis after its two main creators (Edward Sapir and student Benjamin Lee Whorf), the hypothesis claims that ‘the structure of a language partly determines a native speaker’s perception and categorisation of experience’.

The research I carried out continually intrigued me, but naturally I faced various challenges along the way. Almost immediately after embarking on my exploring the subject, it became clear that there was a vast breadth of material concerning the topic out there.

Consequently, it was hard to decide what should be used, particularly in the domain of philosophy.

This is because almost anything ever theorised about perception could easily have been included as background information to the project, and there are many existing ideas about perception which allow room for the SapirWhorf hypothesis’ claims to be plausible. What caused this project to be an important philosophical journey for me was that, having never previously studied any philosophy at all, I was completely out of my depth, and I soon realised that the project entailed far more philosophy than I had bargained for. With no knowledge of the works and theories of Kant, Plato, Locke etc., I was trying to detail these philosophical theories that I did not understand. I found If we did not call this ‘Klein Blue’ would we see a different colour? the particular philosophical area incredibly confusing, and I could not write about something without ‘There are multiple languages which have full comprehension. Relating the one word to cover both green and blue. Does philosophy to my project proved tasking without the ability to see this consequently mean they are blind to the the connections between the two difference between the two?’ areas.

So, is it possible that our view of the world is entirely transformed by the language we speak and that speakers of different languages are living different realities? With all the research done and after drawing the discussion to a close, the answer was clear. I concluded that our language does affect our perception of reality, but it only does so to a very limited extent. Although the significance of various results from scientific experiments is substantial, forms of highly-advanced medical technology such as MRI scans are clearly considerable as a source of evidence for the hypothesis, and there were several key opposing arguments that led to my final judgement.

First, the answer to the debate over whether perception is subjective or not will never be absolute, since the extent of subjectivity involved in perception will always remain ambiguous. Who’s to say each 86

CANTUARIAN | 2020

This shortly became easier and I began to hold a growing curiosity in the world of philosophy, since the more I explored the more my mind was blown, and I am now aware of the powerful relevance of philosophy. Our understanding of the world is based on philosophy, which is the foundation of all knowledge. Human curiosity is rooted in philosophy: its theories have developed our critical thinking, our inquisitive minds, our challenging of everything we see around us.

Religious Studies

by Izzy Karran (6b)

A

pparently you shouldn’t take RS because all you study is the Bible, or you have to be a Christian. Well, I once scorned the subject because of that nonsense, but now it’s one of my A’ Levels. Yes, we do read passages from the Bible, but not just for the sake of it since that would be boring. Instead, we use Bible quotes to assess the Bible’s authority as a whole for different denominations and also to support or contradict current doctrine.

Throughout the course you can disagree and form your own opinions; in fact debating the material is a regular occurrence that is encouraged and also my favourite thing about RS. None of the course advocates a particular view, so you definitely don’t have to be a Christian, although at times you must think like an atheist when writing part of an essay but also like a Christian when you write the counterarguments. You need to be able to understand other views to be able to write a convincing, balanced argument but Also, this stuff only takes place on the Christianity side of it is also important because you can only fully understand the course, because it is essential to understand the basis your own views if you understand others. Blind faith that for different expressions of Christianity. ignores major limitations or flaws in a Different groups today can have polar belief weakens your own position.

‘Ultimately, RS opposite beliefs about the same thing, and is thinking about this doesn’t just apply to live issues today.

By studying RS, you learn about its wider Variations in opinions are also present questions that date social importance. Religion has had a large when discussing the value of different back to the origins impact on the world, from philosophy to historical events or the significance of medicine to government policy. It is the of theology and specific doctrine. For exmple, Luther reason why some patients refuse blood was certain that the way to salvation, transfusions even at the brink of death, philosophy.’ something at the heart of Christianity, and how even though in the US Church could only be through faith, yet Catholics maintain that and State are supposed to be separate, ‘Christian values’ you have to both do good actions and have faith to reach are often the ideological drive behind restrictive laws on Heaven. Considering many Christians believe that the price abortion. of not reaching salvation is eternal damnation in Hell, it is quite important to get it right.

It also betters your understanding of world events, such as the religious significance behind the motives of an Israeli When studying ethics and the philosophy of religion we or Palestinian suicide bomber. There are many actions are much more likely to use quotes from scholars’ work taken in the name of religion but by studying RS you can when learning different ethical theories and philosophical actually assess their validity. stances (some atheistic) on societal issues. For example, depending on the ethical theory, euthanasia can Last, I came to King’s a staunch atheist and am now a simultaneously be considered a grossly immoral action deist with a completely different mindset, so it definitely akin to murder, or the most loving action. expands your own beliefs. Deism holds that one can believe God exists on the basis of reason and due to Ultimately, RS is thinking about questions that date back to Nature, but it rejects the idea of special revelation (aka the origins of theology and philosophy, such as arguments scripture). Also, for deists God created the world and then for and against the existence of God, through to issues left it to its own devices, whereas Christianity maintains still live today, such as abortion. Yet you view these issues that God interacts and intervenes. To me, this deism through different lenses which deepen your understanding seems preferable because it seems reasonable to believe of why people can passionately hold different views that that some divine being set in motion the singularity that sometimes seem nothing like, say, those Jesus would have created the universe, without having to adhere to doctrine held. that I dislike, or encounter the problems associated with the god of classical Christian theism that is supposed to be omnipotent, omniscient and omnibenevolent.

‘You view these issues through different lenses which deepen your understanding of why people can passionately hold different views.’

CANTUARIAN | 2020

87

religious studies GCSE

by Removes In my experience RS is more than studying religion: you gain an insight into different countries’ and people’s points of view. It is an incredibly interesting subject that can tell you more about what people believe and can help you form educated opinions on philosophical matters.

Georgia Faulkner In my opinion, Religious Studies is one of the most interesting GCSE choices, as it not only focuses on other religions, and culture, but also interesting ethical dilemmas and moral decisions. You gain a deeper understanding of the world and other people’s points of view.

Verity Morley Religious Studies is an enjoyable GCSE if you love to have discussions with your classmates and bring your ideas across. RS isn’t all about religious aspects; there are many different topics to discuss. I love RS because it is a great time to give your point of view.

RS helps you to think about wider matters and the nature of reality. It also teaches you about religions and how they affect society.

Callum Michie In RS it is interesting to learn about different religions and their beliefs on different issues.

But what sets it apart from other subjects is the philosophy. The teacher will get through the coursework quickly in the first half hour and the second half hour will be spent discussing something very interesting amongst fellow intellects. For me personally I do RS for the philosophy rather than the religious side.

But I don’t want to take anything away from learning about religion, which gives you a world perspective and keeps your own beliefs more rounded and grounded.

Arthur Elliott

Olivia Hicks

SocSOC

by Fraser McConachie (6b) For me, the Socratic Society embodies what I like most about philosophy: a small group of people sharing their thoughts in an informal setting, over biscuits from the corner shop. Taking abstract debates (What does it mean to be conscious? What is happiness?) and applying them to concrete questions (Do birds really ‘think’?

And are they happy about it?) makes philosophy alive and real. Thinkers who sometimes seem impenetrably dense in lessons become accessible and meaningful when a group of friends chat about the implications of their ideas in real-life situations. Conversations like this take philosophy out of the ivory tower and prove its relevance. I would encourage anyone, whether you’re currently studying the subject or not, to turn up because you might find you like the subject more than you imagined, or, if not, there are still plenty of biscuits.

88

CANTUARIAN | 2020

Philosophy and Religious Studies

by Daniel Cardinal and Shells

O ‘Philosophizing with young people has huge benefits in terms of developing critical and creative thinking skills.’

ver the past few years the Shells have been able to engage in a Philosophical Enquiry as part of their Activities Carousel. So what is a Philosophical Enquiry? Well, Philosophy is about reflecting on what you might call the ‘deep questions’ of life: What is reality? What can we know? Why are we here? What is the best way to live your life?

Questions like these are ‘open-ended’, which means they don’t have a straightforward answer that could be discovered by conducting an experiment or asking Google. This means people will disagree, and this generates lively discussion and argument in these sessions, in which everyone is encouraged to speak freely and express their point of view.

But this doesn’t mean that in Philosophy all opinions are as good as each other or that philosophizing means ‘anything goes’! Rather it’s about exploring and testing the reasons you have for your point of view and this involves coming to understand how others see issues differently. People often say that what they thought was obvious at the beginning of the enquiry turned out to be far from it by the end.

Philosophizing with young people has huge benefits in terms of developing critical and creative thinking skills. But its benefits are not merely a means to this end. Philosophical enquiry can help you to find meaning in your lives and to see the world and important issues anew. CANTUARIAN | 2020

89

‘I most enjoyed the ‘What is a person?’ topic because there are a lot of different views on this.’

I found looking at the concept of reincarnation in Buddhism and Hinduism and also the treatment of different races the most interesting part of the Shells course. For me it was a whole new idea of the afterlife and doing the right things when good karma and bad karma came up in conversation. It put a different meaning on how I see the afterlife as a Christian and I think it’s good to find ways to influence others to broaden their knowledge and perspective on different religions and their beliefs.

Anonymous

‘For me it was a whole new idea of the afterlife and doing the right things when good karma and bad karma came up in conversation.’

90

CANTUARIAN | 2020

I’ve come to like RS since joining King’s because there’s so much more meaning behind all the topics rather than just Bible stories. It really interested me because it’s all about your opinion and making opposing arguments on controversial topics which feels more adult and more beneficial to my education. I’m also pursuing a career in law so debating needs to become more of a strong point for me.

Anonymous I enjoyed studying issues of race and religion because of how important the subject was and we could debate how these issues can be resolved.

Kit Roberts

‘It’s all about your opinion and making opposing arguments on controversial topics which feels more adult and more beneficial to my education.’

I most enjoyed the ‘What is a person?’ topic because there are a lot of different views on this and it’s interesting to hear everyone’s opinions.

Sophia Zainullina I like to debate and hear other people’s opinions. I also liked the topic of human supremacy because it kept me thinking throughout the lessons. I think topics including human supremacy are interesting because they make you think about how you see yourself within the animal kingdom.

Elizabeth Liebeskind

‘Topics including human supremacy are interesting because they make you think about how you see yourself within the animal kingdom.’

CANTUARIAN | 2020

91

HOWTO

SUCCEED

Dr. Jolyon Martin (OKS) is Co-Founder and Head of Business Development at animal health start-up, PetMedix Ltd.

I ‘You may want a first class degree, but are you willing to put in the immense amount of work that is typically associated with that?’

f you go look at my LinkedIn profile, you first three can be summarised as ‘what you will see me summarised as a collection realise was important in retrospect may not of lofty achievements that pepper my have seemed so at the time.’ Some of the path from a big name university through stepping stones for me were ones I diligently various organisations until you get to the planned and prepared for, some were ‘right one I have co-founded and which is doing place, right time’ events, and some of them very well. Everything on there is true, but it were me being outright rejected from my looks nothing like the route intended next project and I expected at any point. Yes, to scrabble around ‘Some of the stepping having you can trace back through for a new option. stones for me were what I have done, but at any given point on the journey Make sure you get the best ones I diligently I couldn’t have necessarily planned and prepared grades that you are capable predicted what came of because society is, rightly for, some were ‘right or wrongly, heavily biased next. This semi-random place, right time’ route forward is true of my towards those people who journey, and also of the events, and some of do well in exams. But if you journeys of many successful looking to do something them were me being are people. with your life that’s not on a outright rejected.’ fully prescribed path (such Those familiar with Baz as progression through Luhrmann’s song ‘Wear Sunscreen’ will medicine, law, or the military) then it’s know it starts with him recommending likely that it will be something outside the wearing sunscreen because that’s supported classroom or lecture hall that informs your by the science: ‘Whereas the rest of my future. For example, I went to a particular advice has no basis more reliable than my careers event at university simply because own meandering experience.’ they were putting on really nice free food and drink. However, the company hosting My first piece of advice follows in the it surprised the audience with an optional same vein – beware survivorship bias. It test that they claimed was very difficult (it is a natural tendency to look at people we was to a room full of Cambridge students view as successful and to want to emulate and they knew how to bait us) and so four their process. There are definitely relevant pieces of advice that someone who has been through an experience (be it university applications or starting a company) can give to someone looking to do the same, but don’t presume it was a well-ordered journey for them or will be for you.

I gave an OKS talk recently (the recording is on YouTube if you would like a longer version of this article and have an hour to spend) about lessons I’ve learned along the way of founding a biotech start-up. The

Cambridge University Dancesport Team wins nationals - 2015

92

CANTUARIAN | 2020

Les Mis, Marlowe Theatre - 2007

PetMedix at a glance • Animal health drug discovery and development company • Only platform capable of making fully canine (and soon feline) therapeutic antibodies • Operational March 2019; raised $13M series A • 38 people in company, 2/3 with PhDs • State of the art labs just south of Cambridge • Partnering deal with Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health

g’s sion, Kin The Pas 8 0 0 2 Week -

Jolyon Martin OKS Talk – 6th May 2021

rounds of interviews later I very nearly ended up as an engineering consultant. It wasn’t the plan or especially what I wanted to do, but it seemed an interesting rabbit hole to go down and I enjoyed the process greatly.

Be inquisitive in everything you do. Part of this is keeping your eyes open for opportunities and pursuing them when they present themselves, but it is also important to ask for advice and feedback.

People are generally very happy to help someone just starting out and it is amazing what you can learn.

Feedback can be particularly constructive after a rejection, be it from a job, university programme, or otherwise. You may find the feedback given is vague or uninformative, and this usually comes from a desire to save face or not cause upset. But in the times where you can get truly candid feedback, that can include some of the best learning opportunities.

It’s also important to ask for help, whether it is with a work task, your mental health, some personal problem, or otherwise; reach out to people when you need and are able to.

When thinking about your future, try to be really honest with yourself not just about what you want, but also what you’re willing to do to get there. You may want a first class degree, but are you willing to put in the immense amount of work that is typically associated with that? Are you willing to sacrifice much of your social life and time for hobbies? I wasn’t, and so I spent university enjoying myself and I got a middle-of-the-road 2:1. I am not saying my choice is right or wrong for you, but I was honest with myself that I didn’t want to/realistically wasn’t going to spend that many hours in the library so I adjusted my expectations accordingly. Similarly, if you want that super high-paying job at that elite firm, you won’t be the only one. You are going to have to put in more graft than anyone else who wants the job, and you’ll have to make sacrifices along the way. If that’s what you truly want then go for it and I wish you the best, but do try to go into something like that with your eyes open.

8

Summary • Beware survivorship bias: everything has context • Make good plans and expect them to change • Keep an eye out for opportunity • Always remember why you’re doing what you’re doing • Ask for help • Have fun and good luck!

Jolyon Martin OKS Talk – 6th May 2021

‘I had no idea what I wanted to do... but what I did find was something I’m truly passionate about.’

12th Night, King’s Week - 2007

Finally, whatever it is that you’re doing, try to make it something you enjoy. No job or course is perfect, and everything in life that’s vaguely worth doing has boring and unpleasant parts. But we only have so much time on this spinning blue ball so there’s no point being miserable if we can avoid it. If what matters to you is time with loved ones and family, then don’t take the job with the eleven-hour days and two hours of commuting. Okay, you may live in a smaller house and go on worse holidays, but you’ll get what matters to you. If you want a job that fulfils you or has impact or whatever it is you care about then go for that above all else. You don’t need the answers now. I had no idea what I wanted to do until around the time of my master’s degree. But what I did find was something I’m truly passionate about, which gets me out of bed each morning excited to do it. I appreciate I’m very fortunate and it’s a rare thing to find, but I really hope that you might be able to find just the same.

Oh, and wear sunscreen. CANTUARIAN | 2020

93

c i us

M

My

Three music scholars explain why they play.

Roberta Mak (Fifth Form)

M

y parents got me started on piano lessons when I was four years old, and I must confess I did not enjoy playing music then because I was often compared to my older brother and was forced to practise under the eagle eyes of my mother.

She sat next to me and monitored my practice sessions for at least an hour every day.

‘At King’s the low-pressure environment allows me to get things wrong without consequence, helping me to curb the fear of messing up.’

94

CANTUARIAN | 2020

However, all that changed on one memorable evening when my parents took me to a piano concert. I can vividly remember listening to Chopin’s Ballade No. 1 in G Minor and being instantly hooked; there was the emotional rollercoaster of the alternating slow, sweet passages, and, for example, the complete release of tension and anger in the Presto Con Fuoco section.

2013 (8 years old): performing in front of a small audience.

Thankfully, I got over hating being forced to practise and started practising of my own volition, appreciating how that rush of adrenaline when my name was called to my mother pushed me to do my best. I played CD after perform, squinting past the spotlight and seeing all CD and went to concerts, listening to different classical the faces below. I remember shakily navigating the music styles, from string quartets to first few notes, staring at the keys and piano solos. As I grew increasingly fond wondering, ‘What if I can’t play this of classical music, I tried playing other by memory anymore?’ I remember “I remember shakily instruments: violin, cello, and eventually doubt pushing its way in front navigating the first few feeling flute, and none of them was forced on of the music, then immediately hitting notes, staring at the me by my parents. However, I found a wrong chord, instinctively freezing, that I emotionally connected more keys and wondering, then frantically playing another chord with the piano and violin, so I later to cover up the mistake, which also ‘What if I can’t play chose to opt out from the other ones. turned out to be the wrong chord. this by memory Moreover, I listened to my brother play Horrified, I skipped the small section Rachmaninoff and Beethoven every day, but managed to get through the piece. anymore?’” and I thought it was the coolest thing At this point, all I was thinking about ever (he was my biggest inspiration). was getting as far away from the stage Although he would constantly bash my playing, he’d as possible. It was a relief when it all ended and, looking help me through difficult passages and play along with back, more practice could have helped, but there’s me if I didn’t know how to move forward with a piece. really no way to guarantee that I wouldn’t mess up, and ultimately it’s not a big deal if I rush or slip up.

I began playing in competitions when I was six, and I initially dreaded them. I’d get to the stage, sit on the I’ve had similar experiences since, for example my stool, and find my right foot (used for the sustain audition for the music scholarship at King’s: I played pedal) shaking, fingers frozen, shoulders tense, 20% of my piece decently, then had a memory lapse, so momentarily forgetting how even to start the piece. I I started again and luckily managed to play it all the way remember my second time at a competition, feeling through, and get the scholarship. As I’ve gained more

2015 (10 years old): another annual concert.

2012 (7 years old): I played violin and my brother played the piano accompaniment; his name is Quentin and he was 12 at the time.

2011 (5 years old): playing a piano duet with my brother Quentin (11); he often taught me how to play the piano.

2014 (8 years old): performing in front of parents and other students my age.

My favourite pieces to play: • Chopin

Ballade No.1 in G Minor

• Ravel

Sonatine

• Debussy

Images II, Cloches à travers less feuilles

• Beethoven

Piano Sonata No. 17 in D Minor, ‘The Tempest’

• Chopin

Etude in C Minor, ‘Revolutionary’ Op. 10 No. 2

• Chopin

Etude in E Major, ‘Tristesse’ Op. 10 No. 3

• Prokofiev

Sonata for Solo Violin in D Major, Op. 115

• Rachmaninoff

Suite No. 2 for Two Pianos, Op. 14

• Bruch

Violin Concerto No 1 in G Minor, Op. 26: II, Adagio

2012 (7 years old): I was performing in an annual recital that my music teacher organises every year.

experience playing the piano, I’ve learned that music is so much more than technical accuracy, so it’s more important to focus on conveying the emotions of the piece rather than trying to cover up every little mistake.

I had the amazing opportunity to attend the theory and musicianship classes in the Hong Kong Academy of Performing Arts, and it’s been a really rewarding experience to see how music fits together on a logical and mathematical basis. I also joined their orchestras, where all the skills I have learnt from playing in a symphony orchestra – from coordinating the bowing with the people in my section to counting the rests accurately without relying on the conductor for entries – is directly transferable to playing in smaller ensembles, which I am now a part of. At King’s, I have more opportunities to perform in smaller recitals. The low-pressure environment allows me to get things wrong without consequence, helping me to curb the fear of messing up and learn how to fail and improvise with grace.

Nowadays, I turn to music to relax and lose myself in the feeling and experience of listening to or playing music. With my recent GCSE assessments, I found myself immediately walking towards the music school after taking them, I could calm myself from the stress in the empty practice rooms without distraction. I have several exciting pieces that I’m planning to learn and, hopefully, I can find even more modes of expression in my playing with the help of my teachers. CANTUARIAN | 2020

95

Arwen Withey-Harrison (6b)

A

t the core of my existence is music. It is the one thing that, without fault, holds me together. Despite the considerable pressure and competition one experiences within the classical music circle, something quite magical about the art makes it all worthwhile – its ability to transform. It sounds strange to claim that music has a ‘power’, but both musicians and non-musicians will have experienced the transcendental effect of listening to, or performing, music. One’s brain is entirely absorbed with the notes, preventing other thoughts from permeating the present. (At least, that is how I feel.)

Although I was brought up in a musical family, it took a few years to find the fitting instruments for me that I actually wanted to play.

Naturally, I chose the most impractical, expensive one of all – the harp – but also demanded lessons in a further three instruments.

Why not? I was told numerous times that I would become a jack of all trades and that it was in my best interests to give up the piano, voice or flute. But I was a stubborn and highly motivated child and refused to admit defeat.

Each of my instruments had a different appeal, enabling me to join orchestras, choirs and wind ensembles, to explore a variety of genres of music, to meet all sorts of people, and to broaden my knowledge and interest in the subject academically.

From here on, I have only been further sucked into the subject, fascinated by its historical, social and political significance. I am more than glad that I persevered.

As a musician with many commitments, I do, however, condemn myself to a busy, often hectic lifestyle. What you see as the performance in a concert is the product of hours of rehearsal, practice and frustration.

‘Natural’ talent is assumed to play an important part in performance, but ultimately it is the 96

CANTUARIAN | 2020

discipline of practice, and the ability to recognise when one could do better, that accounts for progress and skill. It is not easy. To succeed, I have had to sacrifice time to socialise, relax and sleep; with a fixed practice session in the morning, afternoon and evening, on top of academic commitments and extracurricular rehearsals, stress is unavoidable. Yet, whilst music is its cause, it is also its cure. The inexplicable transformative potential of music frees me of this stress, even temporarily. But of course, the opportunity to share this musical experience with others is what drives me to continue.

‘What you see as the performance in a concert is the product of hours of rehearsal, practice and frustration.’

‘I have managed to achieve Grade 8 in all four of my instruments... winning Gold and Bronze awards in both school and international competitions.’

Hard work is not without reward or recognition. I have managed to achieve Grade 8 in all four of my instruments, securing a place at Junior Guildhall in the Autumn of 2019 and being offered a place on their BMus course for 2021 entry, and winning Gold and Bronze awards in both school and international competitions. With this encouragement, my confidence has grown notably – and although nerves are present, I have learnt to use them in a positive way. My biggest inspiration has been learning with professional musicians, who, having been through tough training, have made it out the other side, loving what they do, entirely satisfied with their careers. I too, in the future, hope to both perform and research music, to discover its development throughout time, and to understand its medical benefits. Music has so much potential to soothe, inspire and fascinate. That is why I love it so much.

Some of my favourite pieces: • Ravel

Daphnis et Chloé Suite

• Debussy

Danse Sacrée et Danse Profane

• Purcell

The Fairy Queen, Prelude

• Walton

Henry V: Touch Her Soft Lips and Part

• Karhowicz

Serenade for Strings

• Harris

Bring Us O Lord God

• Rachmaninoff

All-Night Vigil (Vespers)

• Vaughan-Williams

Symphony No. 2, ‘A London Symphony’

• Vaughan-Williams

Symphony No. 3, ‘A Pastoral Symphony’

• Bowen

Arabesque

CANTUARIAN | 2020

97

Toby Davies (Shell)

H

ello, my name is Toby and for the 14 years of my life so far I have grown up to love every single aspect of music in my life through inspirational people and the dedication and potential teachers have taught and brought out of me.

From a young age I grew up around music, since my mother is a professional violinist and my grandmother an organist, which gave me both an ear and a liking for music, so I started to learn the piano at the age of four.

After a few years passed, my parents decided I should apply to be a chorister and follow in the footsteps of my brother in the choir of St. Paul’s Cathedral in London, from the age of seven up until thirteen. Upon arrival at the choir school, I found it very busy, what with full-time boarding at such a young age and the three hours of practising and performing of singing every day seven days a week, which eased over time when I got used to the schedule.

The music staff at the cathedral brought out a talent in me, which is something that I will treasure for the rest of my life, as this really started to be acknowledged when I was further up in the school at the age of 11 through the number of solos and being a key voice in the choir early on.

Throughout my time as a chorister the choir had the honour of going around the world several times, including a two-week tour of America and several days in Germany and Portugal, as well as a few major services to sing at with special guests, celebrities (mostly at Christmas) and members of the royal family for services such as the Queen’s 90th birthday and the Grenfell memorial service, and the annual recording on BBC Radio 3 of Choral Evensong.

All of this strengthened my musicality, and constantly doing music and the things I loved and still love just helped me to get even better.

During my last few years as a chorister, singing started to become something so much more to me, and the busy schedule of rehearsals and performances, although 98

CANTUARIAN | 2020

‘The music staff at the cathedral brought out a talent in me, which is something that I will treasure for the rest of my life.’ they were professional, still gave me a chance to have fun, and soon the timetable shortened. As everybody knows, time flies when you’re having fun, and so it did, but still at the same time I was eager to listen to the advice that teachers gave me.

With the talent of solo-singing and commitment, I had the honour of becoming head chorister as well as principle soloist. Although this was a big title and a big change to my career as a singer all I needed to do was to be myself, and the role just in fact strengthened me and boosted my self-esteem completely, so unlike some people in acts of leadership I just kept doing what I was doing with just some tweaks here and there to make it still fun for everybody, but definitely still keeping the professional side when working, and I felt that this worked perfectly.

Although the pandemic cut short my singing career, I feel the time we had before that as a choir for me was the best time of my life.

We went on tour for a few days in November 2019 to Portugal near

Lisbon to a monastery, and I also performed without But I have moved on and I will never ever forget what the choir with the BBC Symphony Orchestra for the the music staff at the cathedral did for me to create a performance of Mendelssohn’s Elijah wonderful and extraordinary career for on BBC Radio 3 and lastly with my my time as a chorister and I loved every mother’s orchestra in the British Army single aspect of everything we did, ‘With the talent of with the Countess of Wessex’s string through hard times and easy times, and solo-singing and orchestra for a recital.

I’ve noticed that I can use the things commitment, I had the that people have taught me through so Over lockdown I really did find it hard many other things, through performing honour of becoming with singing, nothing to work to, other instruments and other head chorister as well with nothing to look forward to, and it was people and sports. At the moment I am as principle soloist.’ always a complete repeat of people still singing as much as I possibly can saying, ‘Oh, don’t worry; you’ll be through these tough times as a singer back at school again soon.’ But this and I hope that things can get back to never happened, and this I found very hard, and I still normal, and although I do not know King’s without a haven’t even had my valediction as a chorister yet as pandemic, I hope that I, and everybody, can get back to well! doing the things we love.

Thank you.

‘I also performed with the BBC Symphony Orchestra for the performance of Mendelssohn’s Elijah on BBC Radio 3.’

CANTUARIAN | 2020

99

The

IT

Crowd Robin Falcon (Head of Information Technology)

tells us things about IT.

100

CANTUARIAN | 2020

I

T departments are often regarded as a species apart: a darkened basement, indecipherable screens of code, scruffy vagrants tapping away at keyboards and scowling at any poor teachers who dare to encroach on their sub-world. When I started at King’s this stereotype wasn’t far off the truth in most school IT departments around the country. Certainly, it had been in my experience when I worked in schools all over the UK as a team leader for educational technology suppliers RM. There were elements of this at King’s too.

For a start, we were stuck away in some Dickensian hovel, a distant satellite orbiting the King’s galaxy. I remember being described at the time as ‘the acceptable face of IT’. I also remember having to send a technician home to change clothes one morning, after he arrived with the words ‘Do I look Like I give a F***?’ emblazoned across his T-shirt.

But what a change in the 15 years since! I have a great team here in IT, across all sites.

As a department, poor social skills or poor attitude have long been unacceptable, and IT is now seen as a critical part of education provision, both in the classroom and for King’s Education Online (KEO). There’s been a great shift in perception, even during the past year, with the pandemic creating such reliance on technology. Not that King’s or other private schools are remotely as entrenched with technology as state schools have to be. Here, it is still seen as just one tool in the teacher’s arsenal, which is as it should be. But I know that many teaching staff and pupils have been hugely grateful for my team’s efforts to support them through this awkward time, which has in turn been greatly appreciated by my staff, who are not used to receiving praise! That sea change in academic/support relations has been great to see.

moving into Cloud, the network and WiFi infrastructure and performance have become the most important aspect of our provision on site.

When I started in IT I was fascinated by technology and where it would lead. Now we can see where it’s heading, I wish it would slow down. And what of AI? We are really close now to an age of intelligent machines…

And what of the future? I look forward to a and that’s never ended well in Hollywood time when everything is in the cloud, and I films. One cannot help but contemplate the can sit on a beach in the Caribbean sipping dangers, whilst appreciating that machines a margherita while I check the latest event and intelligent computers could help us with logs. Cloud simplifies things for everyone - IT, many of mankind’s more consuming issues: staff and pupils alike. It is easier to support, cancer cures, environmental clean-up… easier to use, and accessible anywhere. maybe even finding an alternative planet to colonize. The pace of computational power Our main concern these days is whether the increase is almost beyond comprehension power is going to go down, a far cry from now, with Moore’s law still a reality. With the the days of unreliable servers, unstable power of a chip today still doubling every operating systems and poor software. The two years, the processing power of devices technology really does will reach staggering new get better and better heights over the next ten.

‘When I started in IT year on year. Updates The smartphone in your I was fascinated by are mostly completed pocket is now twenty in cloud, and there technology and where it times more powerful than is minimal downtime the most powerful superwould lead. Now we can computer or mainframe anymore. Servers don’t crash; devices just work. see where it’s heading, from the year 2000. Deep Apple software is still Blue, anyone?

I wish it would slow generally more stable down.’ than Microsoft (how So why, I hear you ask, often do you ever have am I still in IT? First, I an OS crash on an iphone/ipad or imac?), think it is good for anyone in IT to be always but Microsoft software is finally beginning to questioning technology, to be wary of its catch up. wider implications. I would far rather remain in the field and try to help steer it in the right But it’s still true that we’ve all become far direction, even though, in many respects, it too engaged with technology. It has been of is beyond steering. It is more like a bull on great detriment to society and will only get pram wheels careering down a hill towards more prevalent, with parents and children a shop full of fine china. But, importantly, alike hooked to their screens, the vagaries we can still help steer our young people to of social media and the many problems it use it in the right way. Second, I’m old and can cause: security issues, political hacking, cynical, playing devil’s advocate a little. I do data manipulation by nations; privacy still love many aspects of technology. And, concerns, as massive corporations harvest anyway, as Dylan once said: what’s the sense the data that runs through their networks; of changing horses in midstream? So, bring government access to that same data and on the singularity. What’s the worst that can the Big Brother implications. happen?

When I started at King’s in 2005 there were just a handful of servers that my team literally shared a room with. There are now five dedicated server rooms across the sites.

My predecessor, Al Holland, had done many of the hard yards bringing the infrastructure together - taking fibre connections to many outlying sites and buildings, and to all boarding and day houses, as well as replacing all chalkboards in classrooms with interactive whiteboards.

My arrival brought in intelligent switches, better comms and good Wi-Fi in the early days, and fibre connections to the remaining outlying sites, all of which placed us in good stead to cope with the rapid onslaught of recent change. With everything now swiftly CANTUARIAN | 2020

101

Left to right – Simon Whyte, Jozef Cacka, Ann West, Robin Falcon, Craig Newlyn, Richard Dickson

102

CANTUARIAN | 2020

‘There’s been a great shift in perception, even during the past year, with the pandemic creating such reliance on technology.’

‘I know that many teaching staff and pupils have been hugely grateful for my team’s efforts to support them through this awkward time.’

CANTUARIAN | 2020

103

follow the

money

104

CANTUARIAN | 2020

A Long and Circuitous Route into a Career in Financial Crime Investigations Toby Duthie (OKS) it. I asked myself what I knew about steel trading. Could I do this job? But I did speak German and knew how to get around China, so I thought not a problem, made my decision and grabbed the opportunity.

I

left King’s in 1987 after five fantastic years. I learned a great many things in my time there, over and above the academics, which really helped me in my career – specifically resilience and self-belief.

I was keen to take a year out before university to see more of life, improve my French and German, and live overseas. I moved to Paris, enrolled at the Sorbonne and then to the Goethe-Institut in Göttingen. Both were great experiences and hugely liberating after boarding school. My gap year over, I went to study English at UCL. After graduating from UCL I was looking for a job in 1991, which was, at least for me, a disaster. The 1989 Black Monday stock market crash had taken its toll with a deep recession and very few graduate opportunities. I had several unsuccessful attempts in a job market where hundreds of graduates were applying for one place.

I knew I didn’t have enough to offer at this stage to stand out, so I decided to apply for a teaching job in China through their London Embassy and ended up getting a place in a new university built in a provincial part of South East China. I got my first proper job, jumped on a plane and arrived in the very very rural Fujian province teaching English to 140 animal husbandry students.

I moved to Hong Kong and joined a broad group of friends from the UK (including several OKS and university friends) who were also unable to find graduate opportunities in London. There were quite a few of us who had Failed in London Tried Hong Kong (or FILTH, as we called ourselves).

It was one of the most enjoyable and exciting times of my life, despite the five-and-a-halfday working week, relatively low wages and hugely expensive beer and rent.

banking. Eventually I got an offer from Morgan Grenfell, which had just been acquired by Deutsche Bank, in their Project and Export Finance Department. I assume they liked my slightly unorthodox career path because they gave me a chance to join them outside of their graduate trainee programme. It was certainly difficult at the beginning: I hadn’t done any Maths since O’ level (like GCSE). But learning on the job was excellent and taught me a huge amount about finance and financial modelling. At 30 I reached another cross roads: do I commit to banking or try something else?

My sister (OKS too) had also gone into investment banking, but left to work at PwC heading up a team that was investigating dormant Holocaust-era bank accounts held by various Swiss banks. This sounded much more interesting and rewarding So, in 1992 I found myself in Hong Kong than financing railway infrastructure working for a German concessions. There was entrepreneur responsible a growing number of for selling steel from a investigations ‘After some deliberation these near-collapsing postbeing driven by the US we decided to set up our Senate, plaintiff lawyers Soviet Russia to a recently own company, Forensic looking into German economically ‘open’ China. This involved industry, global insurers Risk Alliance, initially selling and managing and other banks outside to look for Holocaust large shipments of steel Switzerland. across the Sino-Russian investigations.’ border, the main railway So, after some border crossing being deliberation we decided Inner Mongolia. There were no mobile to set up our own company, Forensic Risk phones and no email. Issues had to be Alliance, initially to look for Holocaust resolved in person so I travelled to sort out investigations and restitution work, but any obstacles and ensure shipments arrived then to look for similar types of matter. as promised and that we got paid.

We also had a third founder, who was an ex-PwC friend, who had designed and built After 18 months of doing this, I decided it the huge Holocaust dormant bank account was time to head back to London in early database. This had captured 30 km worth of 1994 and get on a ‘proper’ or at least more archive boxes and data from the Swiss banks established career path, such as investment – millions and millions of very old records

One year of this was a great experience.

The holidays were long and the teaching schedule very light, so I had time to learn basic spoken Mandarin and travel extensively across a great deal of China. It was fascinating but it was sufficient time to convince me teaching was not my calling and I wanted to live somewhere other than rural China. So I started applying for jobs. Again, rejections were plentiful, but finally I saw a steel-trading role based in Hong Kong and working for a German start-up. I jumped at CANTUARIAN | 2020

105

‘This had captured 30 km worth of archive boxes and data from the Swiss banks – millions and millions of very old records going back to preWorld War Two days.’

going back to pre-World War Two days. At this time there was increasingly substantial legal pressure from the US Government to pay restitution to the victims of Nazi Germany.

In 2001, this led to a vast compensation programme covering Swiss bank accounts, German companies who had used slave labour, insurance companies that had not paid out life insurance, and so on. We ended up building the systems and processes that paid out around US$5bn in restitution for banking and slave labour claims. We met some incredible people, including the Nazi-hunter Simon Wiesenthal. To this day we consider this our greatest success.

The Holocaust work was also the key international legal case that first took on the issue of Swiss banking secrecy laws and how and by whom accounts could be accessed, not just for Holocaust restitution but for law enforcement as well. This law for years had blocked access to overseas parties (law enforcement, plaintiffs, tax authorities etc.). As we all know from The Wolf of Wall Street and other sources, Switzerland had historically been a favourite destination for those wanting to hide money.

After the Holocaust work, we focused more and more on providing forensic accounting and data analytics for matters involving cross border criminal and civil enforcement – e.g. sanctions breaches, moneylaundering, bribery and corruption, and other types of white-collar crime. We have been massively fortunate to help investigate some of the largest matters of this kind: Saddam Hussein’s abuse of the UN’s Iraq for Food Programme which, between 1995 and 2003, oversaw the sale of US$53bn worth of oil and the purchase of $46bn of humanitarian goods. The Hussein regime created a scheme to skim off billions of dollars from

106

CANTUARIAN | 2020

‘The inquiry has led to the conviction of 174 people, including a few of Brazil’s most senior politicians, and recovered at least 26bn reais ($5bn) for the public coffers.’

the UN’s humanitarian aid programme to personally profit, support his regime and oppress his people.

prosecutors and regulators around the world to help achieve resolutions. Our work very often underpins the payment of fines, as well as individual and corporate prosecutions. So the evidence we gather, analyse and present needs to withstand the highest judicial scrutiny and be as fact-based as possible. It has been a fascinating journey.

The Brazilian Lava Jato (Carwash) corruption scheme in which oil executives and politicians extracted huge sums of New areas of focus for us include ESG money from corporates and the Brazilian (Environmental, Social, and Governance), oil sector. The scheme was especially environmental called Lava Jato because the pollution, such as VW ‘Most important of all Diesel-gate); data privacy conspiracy revolved around clandestine meetings are resilience, self-belief (and data abuse, eg. between key figures that and a commitment to Cambridge Analitica); and took place in a car wash find something you are market manipulation (fake in Brasilia. The inquiry has news, pricing algorithms passionate about.’ led to the conviction of etc.). Increasingly often 174 people, including a investigative journalists, few of Brazil’s most senior politicians, and whistleblowers and data leaks (e.g. Panama recovered at least 26bn reais ($5bn) for the papers) help kick-start investigations. public coffers.

So I ended up a long way away from The Russian Laundromat which saw up to teaching English in China back in 1991. What $80 billion of Russian money being laundered I would say is that all aspects of my career through the Baltic and Macedonian have helped me. Most important of all are subsidiaries of various international banks. resilience, self-belief and a commitment to find something you are passionate about.

In essence our work involves empirically And about the area I work in? I am still analysing vast amounts of financial, email fascinated after 21 years. and other kinds of data (e.g, texts, voicemail, WhatsApp), all forensically captured and traced. We interact with lawyers and

Toby Duthie is a Founding Partner of FRA and head of its UK and European offices. He has more than 20 years’ experience in financial analysis, complex financial modelling, investigations and compliance reviews.

Fluent in English and German, Toby has particular expertise in multi-jurisdictional investigations, antibribery and corruption compliance testing; he also specialises in matters of government enforcement. www.forensicrisk.com

CANTUARIAN | 2020

107

LOST

by Grace Stephens-Spada (Remove).

Winner of The Somerset Maugham Short Story Prize 2020

‘Sarah, wave goodbye to Mama and Papa.’

They stayed there for a while, reluctant to move in Otto pointed through the train window and onto the the hope that perhaps, if they stayed in sight, they might platform where his parents were waving from a distance, catch a final glimpse of their parents leaving the station. both with the Star of David brandished on their left arms.

After a while Otto took his sister by the hand and His mother wore a black fur hat which sat perfectly on pulled her from the window, where, in spite of the her bed of blond curls, her look completed with a grey platform having disappeared several minutes ago, she knee length coat. In her gloved hands was clutched a stood on tiptoe to see if their mother was still floating small and now-empty green purse. She had given the outside the window. Otto picked up their suitcase and children what remained of her money, hoping that it guided his sister through the packed train compartments would be enough to get them safely across the border. until they came across an empty corner, where he She smiled broadly at the two little faces that looked balanced the suitcase against the wall and, perching on back at her from the carriage in an attempt to hide the it, balanced Sarah on his lap. Her head was downcast pain that she felt in her heart. Her husband, a tall and and her lips pouted slightly, and she held a ragged pink broad-shouldered man, stood next to her with his left arm rabbit which donned a sky-blue petticoat tightly in her wrapped tightly around her shoulders, his face serious hands; she’d had it ever since she was born and wouldn’t but with his arm held up in a sign of farewell. Otto had go anywhere without it. Otto raised her face towards his always known his father’s features to be permanently with his finger under her tiny chin and beamed at her. fixed in a stern expression, but today something different ‘Don’t look so sad, Sarah,’ he whispered, wrapping shone in the man’s eyes. Otto had rarely seen him like his arms around her waist. ‘We’re going on an adventure! that before and although he couldn’t explain it he knew Maybe we’ll meet some cowboys and they’ll let us ride what it must have meant. their horses!’ He bobbed his knees rhythmically up He had seen something similar when the children and down and made a loud neighing noise. The little were told they would have to leave their home in Austria girl’s eyes twinkled with delight and she laughed as her to live with a cousin in Switzerland whom they had chubby arms flailed in the air to steady her balance. A never met, and when his father had called him to his study that night to tell him he must look after his sister and that she was his responsibility now. He turned to Sarah and hauled her up into his arms so that she could see better out of the window.

A whistle blew at the far end of the platform and steam clouded their view as the train began slowly to pull away from the platform. When it began to clear, the children saw their mother’s head bobbing alongside them, with tears that she was no longer able to keep inside streaming down her face. Her smile remained, however, and she waved madly as the train gained speed and Otto and Sarah lost sight of her among the A whistle blew at the far end of the platform and steam clouded their view as the train began slowly to pull away from the platform. clouds.

108

CANTUARIAN | 2020

LOST gruff passenger in the opposite corner gave the two a Otto took out a folded sheet of paper that lay on top sideways stare through narrowed eyes. He wore a dirty of the very few clothes and several packets of food their cap and torn workmen’s cloths and had up to that point mother had packed for them, and reclosed the suitcase. been napping against the carriage wall.

Sitting on the remaining bench, he opened the sheet. On ‘Entschildigen,’ mumbled Otto in reply to the man’s it were written just a few brief sentences, clearly in his fearful gaze. father’s hand. Otto squinted to read his father’s scrawny For the rest of their journey the children sat quietly writing and eventually managed to decipher the note; it in the corner of the carriage watching the bustle of read: ‘Look for a man in a black jacket, brown leather different passengers shoes and a brown Stetson walking up and down hat. He will be waiting for the carriage. There was a you at the south exit and whole range of different you are to greet him as characters that arrived ‘Papa’, and he will greet and left the train while you as Erika and Oskar. they sat there; there were He will take care of you. the rich and well-dressed All our Love, Papa and ladies and gentlemen, Mama.’ with their pristine white The train they had gloves and necklaces of arrived on had departed pearl and diamond, their again and had taken with long, polished walking it most of the people who canes and the occasional had filled the station. The top hat. rest had left the station to Sarah had long their final destinations. fallen asleep when the The absence of the train terminated at their travellers revealed the destination. Otto gently familiar officers in their shook Sarah awake and dark uniforms and their lifted her off his lap. His rifles. Otto had nicknamed legs ached after hours of them ‘lice-men’, because being fixed in the same they infested every corner position, and his sister, of the country, as his bleary-eyed from her nap, father had told him. was hardly able to stay Opposite him on the upright, clinging tightly other side of the track Look for a man in a black jacket, brown leather shoes and a brown Stetson hat. He will be waiting for you onto her brother’s arm. came into view a wide at the south exit and you are to greet him as ‘Papa’.

There were few people archway made of huge left on the train at this blocks of grey granite. point, so in minutes they were standing on the platform Carved into the highest block was the word ‘Süsausgang’. amidst the crowd of travellers, being shoved this way Just as his father had promised, a tall, thin figure stood and that. Through fear of losing his sister Otto scooped under the sign, leaning against the stone and puffing on Sarah up in his right arm and held their only suitcase in a wooden pipe. his left. He just had to find a place away from the crowds ‘This way, Sarah,’ Otto said, taking her hand and of people. walking towards the rickety wooden bridge that linked However, this was easier said than done; several times the two sides of the station. The little girl’s eyelids the person in front of them would stop suddenly to study drooped, and she yawned every so often, but her grip a map or pick up a dropped belonging and Otto, not never loosened around her toy rabbit. being able to stop in time, would go careering into them, As they descended the stairs to the south side of the dropping his luggage and his sister and often tumbling station Otto’s heart quickened slightly. He had never to the ground himself. This always preceded an angry been good at talking to strangers, let alone greeting them shout and a glare from the person affected. Eventually as a parent. He turned and picked Sarah up. Almost at they managed to reach the far end of the platform where once she rested her head against his shoulder and fell they found half a bench free. Otto lowered Sarah onto asleep. He inhaled deeply and pinned a smile to his face. it and placed the suitcase on the ground, unfastened it ‘Papa!’ he shouted. Instantly the man turned his head and opened it. towards the two children and a wide smile spread across CANTUARIAN | 2020

109

LOST his face, his arms open in greeting. diamonds against his tanned skin, alert and constantly ‘Oskar! Erika!’ he replied, without batting an eyelid. darting from officer to officer, although he too, like Otto, Otto instinctively rushed into his arms and the man had a soft smile painted onto his face out of habit to kissed both of them on the head. ‘Come now. Let’s get avoid suspicion. home.’

‘Where are we go-’ began Otto, but he was cut off by He picked up their suitcase and put his arm around a forewarning widening of the man’s eyes and his quick Otto’s shoulders, steering him out of the station. Sarah response. had raised her head slightly at the mention of her father ‘Don’t speak,’ he whispered under his breath. Otto and was blinking herself awake when Otto gently pushed shut his mouth and carried on walking, his gaze fixed her head back down onto his shoulder. ahead of him.

‘Hush, Sarah. Don’t worry. Go back to sleep.’ The The streets had been getting progressively smaller little girl was too tired to argue and sank back into her brother’s shoulder.

They had left the station in Vienna at tenforty that morning and they walked out onto the streets of Innsbruck at quarter past three in the afternoon. The sky was a sheet of grey clouds and Otto was missing Vienna’s blue skies already, pulling his coat tighter around him with his one free hand and wrapping his scarf around his sister’s neck. Otto had scarcely spent more than a week at a time away from their home and had never travelled this far, and finally having a moment to examine his surroundings his breath caught in his throat.

Huge, towering snow-capped mountains encircled the city from every angle, creating a feeling of unease inside Otto. Unlike the tall and The streets had been getting progressively smaller and smaller, and the number grand monuments of of people they came across decreased until there wasn’t one officer in sight.

Vienna, the buildings were of every colour and all had shuttered windows, most of which were shut. Otto imagined and smaller, and the number of people they came across that the city had the potential for a festive and friendly decreased until there wasn’t one officer in sight. With nature, had it not been for the permanently patrolling the light fast disappearing in the short days of winter, troops. Otto sped up to keep with his new ‘Papa’. and after what might have been almost half an hour of When he caught up with him, Otto looked up into walking, the group turned down a tiny alley between the man’s face. It was tired and lined, though he was some buildings that descended in wide and shallow a young man. His crystal-blue eyes stood out like fine steps into the darkness. At one point halfway down it the 110

CANTUARIAN | 2020

LOST

Their guide pulled a singular key out of his pocket and went to put it in the lock, but paused. man stopped and turned. There was a wooden door set deep in the paint-chipped wall, with nothing to decorate it save a small keyhole.

Their guide pulled a singular key out of his pocket and went to put it in the lock, but paused. He raised his fist and tapped a rhythm softly on the door. No sound came from inside. Satisfied, he unlocked the door and held it open for the two children. There was very little light inside, apart from the small amount that entered through the two thin windows and the open door, and Otto couldn’t see much further than a metre into the room.

‘Don’t worry. It’s safe.’ Otto looked at the man. His face was unsmiling but not unkind. Otto walked gingerly into the room, and the door was closed behind them.

After a few moments Otto’s eyes adapted to the light and he looked around the room. In the dim light he could see that every corner of the six-metre by six-metre room was carpeted by straw mats, and sitting on them, covered by thick brown blankets, there were at least a dozen other people scattered around the room.

‘You’ll have to learn to live with the low lighting,’ he said, locking the door again from the inside. ‘It’s alright in the mornings.’ He turned to look at Otto, who was still holding his sister in his arms. He walked over to the far-right corner and placed the children’s suitcase on the ground. ‘This is your mat. There are some blankets folded over there. I suspect you must be tired from your journey, and since the light has basically gone you might as well have a lie-down.’ He began to walk away when Otto spoke quietly through the gloom.

‘Sir.’

The man turned his head. ‘Yes?’ ‘What’s your name?’ The man was silent.

‘It’s best you don’t know. When we are in public you must always call me ‘Papa’ and when we are here you can call me Herr.’ He moved to the far end of the room and sat down on a mat, sighing comfortably as he stretched himself out, and placing his brown Stetson hat over his face.

Otto placed his sister on the mat and sat down beside her. She stirred and suddenly gave a little gasp of fear.

‘Otto, where are we? Why is it so dark?’ she squeaked, her hands frantically patting the floor around her to find her brother.

‘I’m here, Sarah. Hush! Don’t worry.’

He pulled her tiny body towards him and stroked her head. ‘A nice man is hiding us for a while before we go off to Switzerland.

He’s going to help us get there. Try to sleep some more.’ He felt her nod against his chest and lie back down on the mat. Otto pulled a coarse blanket over them and lay down on the scratchy surface of the mat. As his eyelids were beginning to close, the man’s voice came out of the darkness.

‘Otto?’

He walked over to the far-right corner and placed the children’s suitcase on the ground. ‘This is your mat.’

CANTUARIAN | 2020

111

h s i l g n E

Speak

112

CANTUARIAN | 2020

Carmen Wu (Remove) explains how she became fluent in English.

A

chieving fluency in a foreign language, even to an extent, may seem preposterously difficult. Not only does language-learning put a heavy load on assiduous learners, but the notion itself has been solidified into a form of labour, mainly serving academic purposes. In fact, with the correct orientation, fluency can be achieved without being much of a psychological burden, as my experience indicates. As difficult as the grammar and sense of a language can get, my personal journey in becoming gradually fluent in English, my language next-inline to Mandarin, has always been an exceedingly interesting process.

In class, we lived in a complete-English environment, where nothing was EVER being translated into Mandarin. As far as I can recollect, I have never, ever, learnt a single English word, at least in my early stages, through translation. I have never actually recalled myself going, ‘Apple, PingGuo; Thank you, Xiexie,’ but I had always assumed that the red, chunky Malus domestica was an apple, and to express gratitude you say, ‘Thank you’. To achieve fluency, one must not switch the brain back and forth between two languages, but should simply stick to one, to prevent it from being time-consuming.

In fact, starting one’s language education from the My decade-long conquest officially commenced ‘A for Apple; B for Ball’ is crucial, but the underlying at the age of five. As a precocious child, I came notion can be very misleading. In Mary English, after into contact with various Englishgaining the ability to understand the learning agencies, all of which language in the most basic degree, ‘This was a humble, were upscale and well-received, we started off with stories. Not with newly established, less but noticeably counterproductive. greetings. Not with asking where prestigious organisation, the toilet was. The fact that young In the normal, relatively ‘posh’ institutes, children are taught the children were treated as ‘grownups’ but with a completely classic old ‘Hello, how are you?’, ‘A in language mastering had been of different approach for Apple; B for Ball’ and all the rest vital importance for us in attaining in English education in their mannered habit. A threeconfidence. If I had regarded myself compared to most of the as an infant learning to babble, I year-old like me was taught that Apple means ‘PingGuo’, and thank other institutes in Beijing.’ would never have glided into the you means ‘Xiexie’. The list could English system as smoothly. go on forever. More importantly, we would always be constantly asked to recite words, phrases and It had always been Mary English’s objective to teach expressions we had learnt to test our knowledge. in a mother-language system, which is what I have This became a typical approach in English learning as been challenged to develop throughout the courses. these institutes feel obliged to teach by translation. In this completely English-based environment I People expect you to take something out of learning started viewing this foreign language as my native immediately - being able to recite twenty words, one, regarding it as my mother tongue when I speak remember three essential phrases, or recall two it. With the help of this mother-language approach, grammar checkpoints.

I settled myself on an English mindset that gave me the ability to react, even to emergency situations, in However, upon turning five, I came across the most English. In short, I never actually viewed English as important educational institute in my life of one-and- another language at all! a-half decades. In the classroom of Mary English, an unusual language school, I officially began my I was never given vocabulary or grammatical tests journey of mastering English fluency. In comparison in Mary English, not due to the pressure it would to the previous institutes, this was a humble, newly bring, but because it would unavoidably turn established, less prestigious organisation, but with a language learning into a simple currency exchange completely different approach in English education of A=B. Mary English has always recognised language compared to most of the other institutes in Beijing. absorption as a gradual process that takes years of diligence and accretion to build, not a simple information input that could execute a quick output.

CANTUARIAN | 2020

113

In fact, I was never taught the explicit meaning of a word, but once we encountered them in a novel or film, we built our own definitions for them through a variety of contexts and gradual accumulation. It is always difficult to be able to use a word learnt by its translated meaning in various contexts, but learning words through a diverse range of information content made my language utility flexible and confident, even in daily speech.

In regular classes we were often accompanied by a foreign tutor, who would guide us through Disney movies while allowing us to respond to each scene. I would often be part of a heated classdebate, racking my brains furiously to conjure up a counter-argument and justify my point quickly before another classmate. These discussions were always recorded, and as an audio learner I would repeatedly review these class discussions at home during my leisure moments. I remember waking up in the mornings and turning on the radio to a Harry Potter audiobook or class recording – this has always been part of my life which I kept close to me up to this day, and I certainly believe the continuation and work benefited me well.

In the first quarter of my life, my English fluency was developed through the stories, novels and a colossal number of Disney films offered by Mary English. I was never pressured to learn them by heart, but I gradually did so out of unconscious influence and language adaptation. I was intrigued by the exotic folktales, the hair-raising Goosebumps series, the brain-burning A-Z Mysteries, the Scooby Doo TV shows… After about six months into the course, there was a historical moment when I, a shy kid who had never dared open her mouth to utter a single English word, fluently told the entire story of Three Little Pigs in English to her stunned parents.

At the age of seven, I wrote a whole R L Stine short novel from memory – Beware, the Snowman – despite making a load of cheesy spelling mistakes.

114

CANTUARIAN | 2020

‘I remember waking up in the mornings and turning on the radio to a Harry Potter audiobook or class recording – this has always been part of my life.’

texts, speeches, plays, anecdotes, declarations, and Shakespeare plays – the formal English language in all genres, in comparison to the colloquial language learnt when I was younger.

‘In regular classes we were often accompanied by a foreign tutor, who would guide us through Disney movies while allowing us to respond to each scene.’

Apart from stories, I studied more than thirty English movies in detail at Mary English before I was eleven years old. I could even recite many of the characters’ speeches by heart! All of these formed an essential part in building my English fluency, where I was taught the colloquial expressions, jargons, regional accents, and even the puns, forming my English mindset in everyday life - not a robot for tackling exams, but a human, with sarcasm, euphemism, humour and natural fluency.

Before I was ten the foundations of my premature English system had already formed.

But the early stages of forming do not stop here.

It is crucial to get into the habit of becoming an English speaker with a mother language system at an early age; otherwise, if left until one gets older, this language-learning method may no longer be effective. By the time I graduated from elementary school, I was one of the best English speakers in my year. Thinking back, if I had been in one of the other classic institutes, my interest in learning this linguistic art would have been permanently damaged.

At the latter stages of building my fluency, I proceeded to further polish my language system through more literary input. I grew to be an avid reader with age, but from the wide range of books I have laid my hands on, six volumes each of the McGuffey’s Eclectic Readers and The Royal Readers by Thomas Nelson have brought the most revolutionary change to my conquest. As one of the greatest educational classics collections, these two series, which I had persisted in listening to every morning during my daily routines, have given me the greatest literary accomplishment, taught me all the allusions, references, and acquainted me with the authors of the world. I found myself surrounded with poems, soliloquys, historical

Fluency, I realised, wasn’t simply knowing how to speak a language; at least, it was not as simple as that. It had suddenly dawned upon me one day that language is all about embracing culture and appreciating its beauty. Henceforth, I valued my literary taste above everything else.

I noticed how the literary talent and eloquence of a person can reflect his academic level and moral character; how the English language is subtle, intricate and can sometimes be powerful enough to hold the four seas in awe ‘It had suddenly dawned upon (as a Chinese me one day that language is all saying goes). about embracing culture and This is how I appreciating its beauty.’ was motivated to burnish my English abilities at a higher level. I resolved to persist in listening and reading the whole series, until I could memorise some of the classical extracts inside out. And indeed these classics gave me a lifelasting education which has followed me all the way until this day.

My journey has been long, and despite obtaining visible progress in gaining fluency throughout my years, my quest continues, from every book I read down to every syllable I speak.

With the guidance of Mary English, my fluency in the English language was more the result of long-lasting perseverance, of seizing the opportune moments, of retaining my interest, of constantly adjusting my direction in focus, always challenging myself to reach a greater level, and working hard to reach a seemingly unattainable goal.

‘To master another language is to possess a second soul,’ said Charlemagne. Indeed, for the past, present and future, I will always hold a passionate heart to embrace the English culture, to empathise with this exquisite language.

CANTUARIAN | 2020

115

THE

Organ

by Luke Bartlett (Deputy Head Academic) Music Scholar Ed Gaut

S

inging at King’s is justly renowned – not only as an elite sport we were singing along to a completely electronic instrument and of the Crypt Choir, but in the quality and quantity of the noise the sound came from the large black speakers hidden around the made when the whole school gathers together on a weekday place? At times it was quite convincing but otherwise, despite the morning. One of the many sorrows of the pandemic is that we have skill of the organists, only a pale imitation of the pipe organ. not been able to sing hymns together for over a year, nor to enjoy school services in the cathedral (not since the school was uprooted There are three pipe organs in Canterbury Cathedral but the main and moved to Cornwall in the Second World War have we missed instrument in the Quire is unusual because the pipes are hidden high these). We should be gathering in Shirley Hall on four up in the triforium galleries and not visible in a grand mornings of the week to sing, accompanied by the wooden case as they are at St. Paul’s, York Minster ‘After the major piano, a ‘hymn sandwich’ with a talk or two as the and almost everywhere else. After the major rebuild filling. Rightly, when the school decides to go for one rebuild of 2018-20, of 2018-20, costing a staggering £4 million, the organ of the favourites – ‘Jerusalem’, of course, or many occupies all five bays on both sides, giving a new costing a staggering now others, such as ‘Let all the World’, ‘Guide me, O thou stereo effect (previously it was housed in just four £4 million, the organ bays on the South side). It was a fine instrument but great Redeemer’ or the ‘school psalm’ (121: ‘I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills’, set to Canon Shirley’s now occupies all five becoming mechanically and electrically unreliable, beautiful chant) – one piano is no match for over 800 and was always underpowered when supporting bays on both sides, voices. the singing of a full cathedral. Now it’s over 1.5 giving a new stereo times the size (and volume), with some notable new For a third of the year you will remember that the and improved features: larger wooden pipes for the effect.’

Shirley Hall is set up for exams and we are fortunate deepest notes (some over 10 metres long) and two to hold our weekday assemblies in the nave of the new divisions. The Solo division speaks from directly cathedral, still in the form of a hymn sandwich. But instead of a mere over the choirstalls so it is ideal for choral accompaniment as well piano we are accompanied by a pipe organ – and not just any pipe as individual orchestral-style sounds, and the Transept division faces organ, but one of the largest, loudest, and finest of any cathedral in Southeast towards the archbishop’s throne for extra power at the the country.

East end when the cathedral is full for ceremonial occasions. Don’t worry – the windows and Quire vaults have been reinforced so they If the Steinway grand piano in Shirley Hall had been taken away and don’t collapse when the organ is unleashed on full power. replaced by an electric keyboard and large speakers, most would have noticed as soon as it was played, but how many spotted that for five The new organ contains most of the old organ, last rebuilt in 1978 terms, while the cathedral organ was removed to the master organand itself containing most of the previous instrument, which in turn builders Harrison & Harrison in Durham to be restored and enlarged, included earlier instruments; among the 6000 or so pipes there are 116

CANTUARIAN | 2019 2020

‘Among the 6000 or so pipes there are a few within the organ that were made in the 18th Century: a rare audible connection to past generations from King’s.’

a few within the organ that were made in the 18th Century: a rare audible connection to past generations from King’s who were accompanied by the same pipes over 200 years ago. Halfway down the nave there is a handsome darkpainted case containing the Nave division, a few hundred wooden and metal pipes played from the main console that support our singing during assemblies and services, since the main instrument is about 80 metres from those at the very back. Some think that this small box is the entire organ but it’s actually less than a tenth.

Any pipe organ, and particularly ours at Canterbury, is a complex machine as well as a musical instrument.

There are miles of connecting ‘Mozart called the organ ‘the wiring the console to the king of instruments’ and it is divisions of pipes, a indeed the highest-pitched, powerful computer, lowest-pitched, loudest, and enormous blowers and bellows working oldest, largest and most silently to provide the complicated of all.’ huge quantities of wind needed, since all the sounds come simply from pushing air through variously sized and shaped hollow tubes. There are four manuals – keyboards – and a pedalboard which control the 85 stops, typically each a row of 60 pipes of a particular type, material (tin, zinc, lead, copper, oak, beech) and sound colour – flute, string, diapason, cornet, reed (including oboe, clarinet, bassoon, trumpet), mutation (non-unison pipe), mixture (high-pitched groups of pipes for each note) and so on. The Tuba and new Ophicleide stops are the most powerful sounds (think fat trumpets) to listen out for (tasteful organists use them sparingly).

Mozart called the organ ‘the king of instruments’ and it is indeed the highest-pitched, lowestpitched, loudest, oldest, largest and most complicated of all the instruments. Next time you are in the Cathedral Quire look up to the triforium where you will see many more shiny pipes populating the galleries on both sides.

Listen to the warm tones filtering out from the ancient arches and enjoy the surround-sound that speakers can’t imitate: you will really hear the difference.  Luke Bartlett is a former organ scholar and plays occasionally for school services in the cathedral. He is particularly looking forward to hearing the school sing again in the cathedral, supported by the awesome power of the new cathedral organ.

‘Listen to the warm tones filtering out from the ancient arches and enjoy the surround-sound that speakers can’t imitate.’

Organ Scholar Oscar Colliar

CANTUARIAN | 2020

117

Harry Hughes (6b) explores The Jewish Society and the history of Jews in Canterbury and England.

T

o be a Jewish student at the oldest school in the country, situated in the precincts of Canterbury Cathedral, is a unique experience.

Ever present, the thread of Judaism has been sown into Canterbury over hundreds of years, shaping it to be what it is today. I have had the pleasure of being one of a handful of people who can appreciate what it is like to be a Jewish person at King’s.

In the city of Canterbury there has been a substantial Jewish Community dating back to the 12th Century. There are signs of Jewish life on almost every street with the most prominent being Jewry Lane, where there is evidence that the Archa was located there. An Archa is a highly secured chest, provided by King Richard I (1157-99), in which a counterpart of all deeds and contracts involving Jewish people were to be deposited so that the records were preserved. These chests were imposed following the massacre of the Jewish people in 1189, when the violence and destruction directly resulted in the eradication of Jewish financial records, leading to a heavy loss of revenue for The Crown.

By 1194, Canterbury was one of the five most important Jewish communities in England, sending between 20 and 40 contributors to the Northampton Donum. This conference was called to decide how to raise the levy imposed upon the Jews to pay the ransom for the release of King Richard I. At the time London, Lincoln, Canterbury, Gloucester and Northampton were the most important Jewish communities in England. However, if the conference had been held only a few years earlier, more active communities, including Lynn, York and Stamford would have attended but had been effectively wiped out during the massacres. The Jewish population was only able to raise half of the sum demanded, which is hardly unreasonable in light of the violence, leaving a number of communities impoverished.

To some extent, by about 1220, this violence had settled down and some communities recovered, but attitudes continued to harden. This was mainly provoked by financial pressures. To give some context, many kings and especially Henry III (1216-72), tried to extract large sums of money from the Jewish community as taxes and forced ‘gifts’.

In order to pay these sums, Jewish lenders often sold on the debts owed to them, and the new owners of the debts pressured the debtors to pay up. As a large proportion of English knights became increasingly indebted, Jewish lenders got the blame. This led to great unrest across the country and, from the 1260s onwards, 118

CANTUARIAN | 2020

Tablets Of

Stone

CANTUARIAN | 2020

119

local representatives demanded in Parliament that measures be taken to curb Jewish lending. It is likely that these changes contributed to several thousand Jews deciding to leave England. By 1275, King Edward I (1272-1307) decreed that Jews could no longer lend money for a living and would have to convert to being merchants, labourers or owners of farmland. This statute also confirmed long-standing rules for Jewish people, including requiring Jews to wear badges in the shape of stone tablets.

In 1290, having run up large debts waging war abroad, Edward needed to negotiate a financial settlement, but Parliament’s permission was needed before a tax could be raised. One thing Edward was willing to barter was the remaining Jewish population. In return for an Edict of Expulsion, Parliament granted Edward a tax of £116,000 – the largest single tax of the Middle Ages.

Following the expulsion, a modern Jewish Community is known to have existed in Canterbury by the early 18th Century. For this congregation a synagogue was built in 1763 on the western side of Canterbury, but the building was torn down to make room for a new railway line built by the South Eastern Railway Company. The present building known as the Old Synagogue was designed by Canterbury architect, Hezekiah Marshall, and construction was finished in 1848, with the cornerstone being laid by Sir Moses Montefiore in September of that year. This beautiful Egyptian-style building has a pair of columns with lotus leaf capitals that flank the doorway and on the central bimah there is a selection of Egyptian obelisks and more lotus-leaf-inspired engravings.

Built up from the modern Jewish roots in Canterbury, the Jewish community at King’s is a determined and strong group of people despite only being a fraction of the student body. I myself am a 17-year-old Bar Mitzvah’d student who has the ability to choose who does and who does not know that I am Jewish. For this I am grateful. Judaism is not just a religion; it is also a deeply rooted culture that can be traced back through generations of families. These ideas are what set Judaism apart from many other religions or cultures, so much so that I sometimes ask myself, what does it mean to be a Jew? I find it fascinating that you can have such freedom to choose whether or not you want to identify as Jewish when there is such a strong tradition of intergenerational lineage. To give some context of the extent of this lineage, many families can trace their genealogy all the way back to which of the 12 tribes of Israel their ancestors were a part of in the 6th Century BC. This concept of choice has never been more prevalent in the United Kingdom than now. In 2020, while in the midst of a global pandemic and lockdown restrictions, there were 1,668 recorded antisemitic incidents, which is the third-highest total since the Community Security Trust began collecting data in 1984. Among the 120

CANTUARIAN | 2020

general public, almost half of people agreed with one or more antisemitic statements put to them, including ‘Jewish people talk about the Holocaust just to further their political agenda’, and ‘Jewish people chase money more than other people do.’ This points to a troubling normalisation of antisemitism in the general public.

Within the Jewish community the fear of antisemitism is growing. Earlier this year we learnt that one out of three ‘In the city of British Jews avoid showing Canterbury visible signs of there has been their Judaism a substantial in public, not surprising given Jewish the consensus Community amongst half of the general dating back public that Jewish to the 12th people are not as ‘loyal to Britain Century.’ as other British

people.’ As of the 2011 census, there were 269, 568 Jewish people living in the United Kingdom, which at the time was only 0.4% of the population. And since a large number of these people live in Manchester and London, it is likely that, even at King’s, this is the first time some students have ever met a Jewish person.

The appalling curse of antisemitism has even taken hold of a national political party. In 2019 the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) launched an investigation after ‘receiving a number of complaints about allegations of antisemitism’ in the Labour Party. This investigation identified serious

failings in the leadership of Jeremy Corbyn and an inadequate process of handling antisemitic complaints. The EHRC said, ‘The equality body’s analysis points to a culture within the party which, at best, did not do enough to prevent antisemitism and, at worst, could be seen to accept it.’

At King’s, the environment is very welcoming, in my experience. With many fora to raise any antisemitic incidents and many channels of support, I personally feel very safe to express myself. Also, the Jewish students, in tandem with Mr. Katz, run The Jewish Society, which meets every Friday evening for ‘Erev Shabbat’ but is open to anyone at

‘With so many positive changes happening in the world right now, I want us to be the ones that break the cycle of persecution.’

the school. Friday evening is a really special time in the week and would traditionally be when you sit down for dinner with your family. We have generously been allowed to hold this meeting in the Old Synagogue for a number of years and it is a great time for open discussion, good food and to learn more about the Jewish faith. Enthusiasm from the Jewish subcommunity, backed by the wider King’s community, creates an open and safe space for any Jewish student or member of staff.

However, I think that the best aspect of Jewish Society is the people who, despite not being Jewish, come because they are interested in Judaism. Indeed, most people who come every week are not Jewish and this is undoubtedly displayed in the events such as the annual football match against the Cranmer Society, the annual cultural fair, and a number of whole-school assemblies given by The Jewish Society.

According to a recent survey of British Jews, many of them were more optimistic about their future compared with last year.

Nonetheless, history has a way of repeating itself and it is far too easy to find instances of antisemitism without even mentioning The Holocaust. Antisemitism has forever lurked beneath the surface of our society and raising awareness about it is the first step.

It takes courage to stand up but courage is what we need. With so many positive changes happening in the world right now, I want us to be the ones that break the cycle of persecution. CANTUARIAN | 2020

121

What I

Missed

Purples reveal what they missed most about King’s during lockdown.

Daisy Rex, Captain of School What I really missed was being part of a team. Nothing matches the feeling of scoring a team goal during a Saturday hockey match which took the effort of every player, or when Mr. Bersey conducts the last bar of the last movement in the King’s Week Virtuosi, or when the whole school is belting out a favourite hymn at the top of their voices in Shirley Hall. Being part of something bigger than yourself is what makes King’s.

Joshua Platt, Vice-Captain of School I must admit that dreamy towers, beautiful historic grounds and ancient buildings prove an awe-inspiring work and living environment, but it would be unrepresentative for me to state that what I miss most about King’s is its spectacular architecture. What has defined my, and I’m sure many others’, time at King’s is the long-lasting relationships forged throughout our school lives. Whilst, of course, these friendships remain despite lockdown, I look forward more than anything to the palpable atmosphere of camaraderie, amity and team spirit that exists within the four tall walls of our unique and wonderful school.

Emily Onuh, Vice-Captain of School The warm feeling of togetherness that ran through King’s felt absent. I missed the Saturday nights we had in Jervis watching movies, playing card games and socialising with different year groups. It was a wonderful opportunity to interact with the younger years, ensuring they felt supported and included within the wider King’s community.

Abi Brooke, Head Scholar What I’ve missed about King’s during this time has been the walks to and from lessons or around the grounds alone; being surrounded by the beautiful and historic buildings creates a serene and calm feeling that I have only ever felt at King’s.

122

CANTUARIAN | 2020

Fred Sharp, School Monitor Over lockdown, I found I missed many smaller parts of my time at school, whether that was an extra rugby session after lessons, with a group of us kicking about a rugby ball in the sun, or a CCF exercise sitting around a campfire, or even a curry in Canterbury after a Saturday fixture.

Alp Yilmaz, School Monitor I missed the feeling of walking back to St. A’s for lunch with my friends, knowing that I was done with lessons for the day. I missed chatting with teachers after class about anything of mutual interest. I missed King’s, the place where my friends and I learn to be the best we can be.

Harry Coe, School Monitor One thing I missed most in Lockdown was the Saturday nights in house. Since we were locked down from September to December, we became closer as a house because we were spending more time with each other on a weekly basis. Saturdays gave us the chance to talk about the week gone and have a friendly catch-up, which naturally brought the house closer together.

Mary Curry, Head of House, Lady Kingsdown In a school known as a ‘school without corridors’, it is no doubt that staying at a desk all day has put into perspective the pleasure of walking around The Precincts. The five minutes of fresh air between lessons allows you to clear your head, bump into friends and get your step count up! It has certainly been missed.

Ed Gaut, School Monitor In a world that’s always connected, it’s easy to forget the value of simple everyday conversation. Throughout lockdown I found that, whilst it was fairly easy to keep in touch with close friends, what I really missed was the general sense of community that is such a key part of school life.

Millie Lark, Head of House, Walpole One of the things I missed most was my friends not being the first thing I saw in the morning, and not being woken up by the annoying noise of people running around house – that, along with the Passion Shoot Smoothies from the Social Centre which I definitely struggled without over lockdown.

Ka Stark, School Monitor I love King’s for the variety of opportunities it offers its pupils and staff, ranging from school plays to debating competitions between houses, to volunteering activities which contribute to the wider community.

What I’ve missed most has been the chance to work with my peers across year groups, as well as educators, towards creating events which are an outlet for the exceptional rainbow of talents and ideas which pertain to every member of the King’s community.

Allegra Hinds, School Monitor During lockdown what I missed most was being able to play sport with my friends.

I love the walk to and from Birley’s, when you can have a catch-up and a laugh before playing a team sport. I never realised how sociable sport was until lockdown, when I could only go for runs with my dog for company!

Nia Zhangaskina, Head of House, Jervis I’ve truly missed the small things, like school dinners before house song competitions, singing ‘All you need is love’ on Walpole Carnations Day and, of course, Mr. Harrison’s assemblies. It’s something you have to experience yourself to really understand what it means to be part of King’s.

Grace Murray, Head of House, Broughton I missed the independence that King’s allows me to have away from my family. It’s lovely to be home but the King’s environment allows us to develop and thrive amongst our friends through shared experiences. When we’re together we feel more empowered as young adults rather than pupils.

Archie Hogg, Head of House, Tradescant The thing I missed most was the Dove Court sports: coming back to Rugby and Schmickit on Dove Court, along with chatting to my mates on the benches was something I really looked forward to and missed when we were away.

Will Grosse, Head of House, Galpins I thought it would be the big events I missed most – House Song, Christmas Dinner, the Carol Service. But it’s the small day-to-day aspects that have been really hard to go without: singing a morning hymn in Shirley Hall, heading off to Birley’s for a Saturday match, even just walking through The Precincts, or Galpin’s, or into town. Little moments with your mates that you take for granted.

Izzy Macdonald, Head of House, Luxmoore Among many things, I missed the Luxmoore atmosphere: laughing in the common room, the Saturday-night themed quizzes and the overall craziness that ensues when we all spend time together. I missed the feeling of being a part of such an energetic, wonderful collective of girls. Team’s meetings just didn’t suffice when it came to lockdown.

Ella Rowe, Head of House, Mitchinsons I missed most the ‘hustle and bustle’ of everyday life at King’s during this crazy year. I love the atmosphere of King’s, seeing everybody every day, walking around our beautiful campus and really feeling a sense of fulfilment after each busy day is done. There is most definitely a particular, wholesome feeling you obtain through (physically) being at King’s, and there is truly nothing else like it.

Bear Hastilow, Head of House, Meister Omers During lockdown something I really missed was getting together as a house and playing a good game of cricket in the MO back garden on a sunny summer evening. A good bit of friendly competition within the house cannot be matched.

Amaia Cordeschi, Head of House, Bailey The most disappointing thing about Covid is missing my first summer term at King’s. Apart from a couple of warm days in September, I am yet to experience the traditional King’s summer. I hope that as restrictions continue to lift I will be able to experience a final term that resembles those of previous years I have heard so much about.

Florence Brealy, Head of House, Carlyon There are so many things that I love about King’s: the community, sport matches and King’s Week, to name a few. What I have missed most, however, is the lively atmosphere at school events, my favourite being the House Song Competition, where each house comes together for one of the best nights of the year.

Joe Denyer, Head of House, School House I’ve missed being immersed in the wealth of co-curricular opportunities at King’s, especially the musical side, because I feel the creativity I experience when surrounded by my peers is unrivalled. I didn’t fully appreciate this ‘pre-lockdown’ and I now feel much more positive about any time spent at King’s.

Ned Richards, Head of House, Linacre What I missed most about King’s during our third bout of lockdown was pigging out at brunch on Sundays. Certainly nothing tops the school hash browns when it comes to satisfying one’s appetite.

Oli Hinnels, Head of House, Marlowe Slamming my hymn book in assembly, getting one carnation from matron and the Broken Oars podcast.

Ehioze Osifo, Head of House, The Grange Backfield Football. It’s always been my favourite thing to do, both when I was a Shell playing with the 6as I viewed as superheroes, to now, when it gives me a great opportunity to get to know the younger ones. Lockdown was hard but being on Backfield fixes everything.

Erhuore Macaulay, Head of House, Harvey What I missed the most about King’s in lockdown was the atmosphere – the noise from the Refectory signalling a break in the day, the energy and vibrations as you walk around Green Court but, most especially, the feeling of community.

CANTUARIAN | 2020

123

Letters

From

OKS Dear Editor, My professional life has been spent advertising and marketing for Saatchis, BBDO, Grey, Black Rock and Invesco in the UK and, for the last eleven years, in the US doing work for famous brands such as the Super Bowl and marketing in financial services.

I’m very happy to chat to leavers about careers in the industry.

Jon Holding (SH 1985-90)

Dear Editor,

Dear Editor, Many years ago, when The Cantuarian came out (I think) once a term, I remember an article written in the late Forties in response to a request from OKS inquiring whether the school slang had changed much since their day.

The upshot was that an article appeared in the next issue, written by a scholar who had done a little listening and had collected enough to write, most amusingly, The Legend of RRH (Red Riding Hood).

Would it be possible for a similar article to be written in 2021? I can hardly believe, even with the civilising influence of your young ladies, that school slang is no longer in use!

Simon Freebairn-Smith (SH/GL 1948) 124

CANTUARIAN | 2020

Your article in the last Cantuarian about Patrick Leigh Fermor reminds us of what was told to Sandra and me by our friend, professional botanist and my co-author, John Aykroyd (not OKS), who is an expert in the flora of the Western Mediterranean, after one of his regular visits to his friend Paddy Leigh Fermor in the Greek town of Kardamyli.

After the town had captured and abducted General Kreipe, the Germans visited such fearful reprisals upon the Cretan population that Leigh Fermor knew from experience he would be blamed and that a blood feud would be declared.

Such vendettas still exist in parts of Crete and are passed from father to son. This is why Paddy never went back to Crete.

Stephen Durnford (MO 1957-61)

Dear Editor, I was in MO during the mid-Fifties, which meant that many of the staff had fought in one of the two world wars. At that time it was usual for our housemasters to sit with us at the lunch table.

The Housemaster of MO had flown Lancaster Bombers in WW2 and we were always eager to hear about his experiences. Like so many of those who witnessed the horrors of war, he gave nothing away, except during one conversation when he was asked, ‘Sir, how did you get your DFC (Distinguished Flying Cross)?’ He replied, ‘By post.’

This was typical of a very warm and kind housemaster. You could never imagine him dropping a bomb on anyone, and he was certainly not prepared to talk about it.

Dr. Howard Carter (MO 1956-61)

Dear Editor, In spite of being diagnosed with stage-four prostate cancer in 2004, I have not only grown my NGO (www.fica-disputeresolution.com), which promotes all aspects of alternative dispute resolution within UNCITRAL and outside, but I have also established a new institute to provide cross-border, cross-judicial jurisdictional conflict avoidance for international construction contracts at www.dacabi.org with an excellent multinational team.

The Dean of Canterbury Cathedral, who was known as the Red Dean for his left wing views, lived in a beautiful house overlooking the Green. With him in that house lived two beautiful daughters and I managed to talk with one of them on two or three occasions, but I was punished for doing so. It is astonishing to recall the hatred this valiant man provoked merely because he had socialist views.

I recall the kindness and warmth with which Kem Gross attempted to welcome me into his family. We were neighbours in the village of Fordwich. One summer he gave a party for young people and invited me. I got on very well with one young woman and when I got home asked if I could invite her to our house. My request was refused because friends of the Grosses were socially acceptable but we were not.

I must mention Andrew Mackintosh. Peter Pilzer and I were the elderly members of the classical six. Mackintosh would circle the class, five of whom were in their 13th and 14th years, and receive answers in rhyming couplets. He would look at me and sigh, ‘Well, Beaumont, what literary gem are you going to provide us with today?’ Although I had no warm relationship with him when I was elected to the Athenaeum in 1983, I wrote him a letter and was very surprised to get a very warm response.

Ben Beaumont (MR 1953-58)

CANTUARIAN | 2020

125

Dear Editor, Blast from the past. I recently moved house and while sorting out some old files I found a cutting from The Times, which may be of interest.

‘For two years, 1956 and 1957, under the coaching of Colin Fairservice, the King’s 1st XV had an impeccable match record against other schools and did not lose a game.’

For two years, 1956 and 1957, under the coaching of Colin Fairservice, the King’s 1st XV had an impeccable match record against other schools and did not lose a game.

This culminated in a challenge from Ampleforth College, in the North of England, who had a similar record. King’s prevailed. The attached article from The Times details the victory.

I was in the 1st XV for those two years as scrum half with A. J. Agnew in 1956 and J. A. Turner in 1957 as Captains.

I look back on those heady days with nostalgia and pride.

I continued rugby after leaving King’s and played in both the French and Swiss leagues, retiring aged 45.

I am now in my eighties and am Vice President of my local rugby club in Dorking, Surrey.

Peter Rollason (LX 1954-58)

126

CANTUARIAN | 2020

Valete

CANTUARIAN | 2020

127

Stephen Matthews

by Will Bersey

W

hen Stephen Matthews joined the Music Department at King’s some 36 years ago, there was no internet, very little computer use and certainly no such thing as YouTube or Spotify. Indeed, the must-have tool of so many composers nowadays, ‘Sibelius’, was yet to be invented, because Stephen was still teaching the inventors in the classroom. So much has changed since then.

With a First Class degree from Queen’s College, Oxford, Stephen arrived in the Music Department in 1984, when Paul Neville (Lt. Col.) was Director of Music, succeeding Nick Gleed, and joining Anthea Wilcock teaching academic music, alongside colleagues such as Robert Scott, David Goodes, Alan Ridout and, a little later, Barry Rose. A huge number of O’ Levels, A’ Levels, GCSEs and, most recently, PreUs have passed under the bridge during his tenure, and a huge number of candidates have gone on to read music at the world’s top universities, many returning to teaching too.

Stephen will be arguably best remembered as a composer, leaving behind him a jaw-dropping portfolio of compositions usually designed for King’s ensembles and two much-loved hymns that, despite one’s irregular metre, are sung by the school as well as any other hymn in the book. His choral works have been cherished by the Crypt Choir for decades and his trumpet dectets and horn quartets have been the source of much delight for Kevin Abbott and the brass players over the years too. In a wonderful double act with Mr Miles, the ‘Festal Flourish’ series perhaps typifies Stephen’s innate ability to design music that puts his ensembles in the very best light, with a quarter of a century of delicate, clever and tactful writing for the Meister Omers musicians, whose house event always pulls the largest audience on a dark Spring night.

Leaving in his trademark, invisible way, Stephen has managed to evade any celebrations, which I know he is quite relieved about.

‘Stephen will be arguably best remembered We will all miss him hugely – his pupils, Music Department as a composer, leaving behind him a jawcolleagues and members of dropping portfolio of compositions usually Alongside his brilliant work in the common room, who will the classroom, Stephen covered remember him, amongst designed for King’s ensembles.’ the critical role of school other reasons, for his love of accompanist throughout this time, playing for rehearsals, concerts, crosswords. It is a genuine tragedy that we have missed the chance exams, auditions, Congers and so much more. He has run the to thank Stephen publicly for his incredible service to King’s and informal concert series, the King’s Week Music at Lunchtime series perform his orchestral variations on his hymn tune, ‘Lardergate’, and is known to everyone who has been lucky enough to work with which he composed especially for the Symphony Orchestra to him as the ‘go-to’ man at the keyboard, able to sight-read just about perform in the Gala Symphony Concert this year, an event which, anything. Nick Todd, Head of Singing, often refers to his request for like so many others, was lost amidst the turmoil of the coronavirus Stephen to pop the double fugue in the Sanctus of Verdi’s Requiem pandemic. down a tone to save the pupils’ exhausted voices, something that Stephen ‘thought about for a few seconds and then effortlessly I have known Stephen both as a colleague and a friend for 17 years delivered’. The pupils have always understood how lucky they’ve and would like to express my enormous gratitude to him for all he been to work with Stephen, exemplified by OKS Dom Collingwood’s has given to the Music Department at King’s, along with my heartfelt turning up to his public A’ Level Recital recording and asking him to best wishes for a long and happy retirement with Helen and their transpose something tricky, which he had not rehearsed nor even four (grown-up) children. We will perform the orchestral variations shown him in advance, down a minor third. Even Stephen blanched as soon as it is safe to do so and will look forward to seeing Stephen and asked for a couple of minutes just to read the score through first. then and celebrating his career at King’s at the same time. He did not play it through, but after looking through then proceeded, as usual, to make it work perfectly. This extraordinary skill will be hugely missed in the coming years.

128

CANTUARIAN | 2020

CANTUARIAN | 2020

129

130

CANTUARIAN | 2020

Janet Taylor

by Peter Cordeaux

J

Janet Taylor, or JT, as she was affectionately known by her students, was with us for 27 years, as long as the Peloponnesian Wars. She took over the Classics Department in 1994 – the only female Head of Classics in the Eton Group at that time – when she succeeded Martin Tennick, from whom she learned many valuable lessons, the most important being to make Classics fun with the pupils at the heart of her work. Many a Shell would race up the stairs to P5 to catch a song from her collection of music, used to aid the speed-teaching of grammar and vocabulary.

so, when students showed initiative by inviting speakers such as Baroness Susan Greenfield or OKS to give academic talks. The Pater Society ran every year in her time at King’s. A huge range of visiting speakers came to inspire all our year groups, from small gatherings of specialist SixthFormers and talks for Shells through to whole school lectures when everyone was assured of a warm welcome and left with new nuggets of knowledge.

On the cross-curricular front, under JT the Classics Department reached out into many Latin, Greek and Classical Civilisation continued areas of the school. She organised visits by to thrive under her leadership and, in the face Roman legionaries and transported exam of curriculum change and pressure on the groups to the Pompeii and Troy exhibitions at timetable, JT kept Classics relevant and topical. the British Museum. Many GCSE CC students By introducing Gratin, she was able to teach more had regular opportunities to paint Greek vases students, running Latin and Greek, two full GCSE kindly provided by Canterbury Pottery, and make subjects, in half the usual time. With innovations and decorate their own tiles in the Ceramics like this, King’s has kept Classics at the core of a Department then fire them in an outdoor kiln ‘Canterbury is still alive King’s education and allowed many students to at St. Augustine’s, in enthusiastic attempts at with Roman discoveries go on to study Classics at Oxford and Cambridge archaeological reconstruction. By working with and JT was there, digging and the other good universities. Many of these the Canterbury Archaeological Trust, she was up more history.’

OKS scholars still maintain contact with JT, such able to bring more of Canterbury’s ancient past was her kindness and support when they were to life for her pupils, with hands-on experience here at King’s. She made teaching look effortless and many of her in their secret vaults. Canterbury is still alive with Roman discoveries former colleagues are now themselves Heads of Classics at other and JT was there, digging up more history. independent schools and have often contacted JT for her wisdom and advice.

Dover is a Roman harbour and JT spent many afternoons supporting the sailing activity, like Poseidon ruling the waves. All those games You cannot remain at King’s without becoming an integral part of the and activities are the special extras King’s can offer – bowling, dresscommunity and during her tenure JT held many roles. Many people making and cookery are just a few. The food might sometimes have won’t remember, for example, when she was Queen of King’s Week. had a Roman flavour, and some of the parties might have featured The technology was a little ancient, but the festival was just as vibrant a toga or two, but that is part of the benefit of a classical education. as it is today. She also had pastoral roles as a tutor in Tradescant and Marlowe and helped generations of boys and girls with her support JT had huge influence on many, many pupils over the past years. and intellect.

She retired early to pursue further explorations in language, and she plans to talk her way across Europe. You never really leave King’s JT should also be remembered for her amazing voyages all around because the people are the heart of the place, from pupils to staff. the Mediterranean, although, unlike Odysseus, she always brought They become good colleagues and great friends. We miss JT not her crew safely back home from Mycenae, Olympia, all over Greece, only as a true King’s teacher but as a long-standing member of the Sicily, Pompeii and Rome. Plenty of her adventures were closer Common Room; her wisdom and good cheer have been felt by all. to home – from London theatre and gallery trips to adventures in Although her final year ended in an unusual way with a full lockdown Oxford and Cambridge, each trip has its own epic Odyssey to tell, but and online teaching, JT took all this in her stride and moved Classics it would take too many volumes to repeat all the tall tales before they online with her usual swift response to change: efficient and effective. disappear into legend.

This was when her experience was invaluable, something which will be missed by many.

Under JT, the Classics Department spread its influence far and wide. Liaising with students at JKS, going into local state schools We wish her all the very best for the next stage of her adventures and opening up the Pater Society to a wider audience, extended but I know she will keep in touch, sending postcards from a Roman the reach of the talks and lectures to support Classics across East holiday, learning new languages and skills to build upon her ancient Kent. It was JT’s pleasure to host university lecturers and, even more knowledge.

CANTUARIAN | 2020

131

Martin Franks

by Matthew Rolison

T

he start of the new school year in September 1990 was marked by three notable events. First, this was the year that King’s began admitting girls into the Shells; up until then the only girls admitted were sisters of siblings, and only in the Sixth Form. 1990 also marked the inaugural opening of the Recreation Centre, a significant addition to King’s sporting facilities. Finally, but perhaps with slightly less of a fanfare, 1990 was also the year that Martin Franks joined the Common Room, at the tender (and, if I am honest, hard to imagine) age of 26. Before this Martin had spent a short but distinguished time with Hampshire Constabulary as a Police Constable, together with two years’ teaching experience in a local secondary modern, which he assures me turned out to be the ideal preparation for being a tutor in Marlowe, where he stayed for the next thirty years, eventually serving under five Headmasters, three Housemasters and three Department Heads.

in the UK and Europe followed, along with military summer camps and DofE expeditions both in the UK and abroad. In fact, Martin has calculated that whilst at King’s he has spent the equivalent of at least a full year on CCF trips or expeditions. Martin always maintained that his willingness to spend so much time away was because he was heavily outnumbered at home by his wife Debbie and not one, two or even three, but four daughters. However, as anyone who knows Martin will tell you, he is a doting father and there is literally nothing he would not do for Joanna, Chloe, Alice and Sophie, including organising Chloe’s marriage in the Cathedral Crypt – particularly poignant for Martin after thirty years of Matins, Evensong, Advent and Commemoration services.

Martin took over command of the King’s CCF when Martin Vye, the former OC, retired, and he reminisces that the late 1990s was a wonderful period for the CCF. These were the ‘Younger staff in the CCF/DofE crowd referred days before health and safety Hoping to improve his prospects to Martin as ‘Dad because he would make you risk assessments curtailed a during his initial interview, Martin whole range of adventurous professed a passion for canoeing, feel safe and secure, and always seemed to know activities. To illustrate his point, and in hindsight should not have Martin described an escape how to bring out the best in people.’ been so surprised to find that his and evasion exercise that took subsequent employment contract included a clause requiring him place on a snowy January night in the days before mobile phones to run the school canoe club. Summer 1990 suddenly became much were commonplace. With the assistance of a parent who was a Lt. busier than he had expected, having to quickly book himself onto Colonel in the Army Intelligence Corps, twenty sixth-form pupils the various courses necessary to qualify him to run the club. All this were driven to a military interrogation suite in Ashford where they effort proved to be time well spent, because he thoroughly enjoyed were incarcerated and, after a gruelling interrogation, put through running the club for the next ten years, until the local city council a series of mental and physical team challenges by regular soldiers. lowered the water level of the Stour in the early 2000s, and Martin They were subsequently allowed to ‘escape’ in small groups and, had to reluctantly accept that this made the river unnavigable. with no financial resources, had to make their way on foot back to Canterbury as quickly as possible without being seen and whilst being During his first year at King’s, Martin was invited to attend a CCF pursued by hostile forces. The railway line, main road and river were adventure training camp at Loch Ewe, Scotland. This turned out to all considered suitable routes, each with its own risks, risks that we be an eventful camp, starting off with the Army vehicle transporting would not even dare to entertain today. Martin assures me that all the cadets being blown off the road onto its side and into a ditch on the pupils eventually returned to school in the early hours of Sunday the edge of a loch, miles from civilisation and in the dead of night. morning, just in time to attend a debrief – and Matins, of course.

Further ‘adventure’ followed the same week when Martin found himself wading waist-deep in snow drifts, helping with a casualty ‘The late 1990s was a wonderful period for the evacuation for a colleague who had the misfortune to break his leg.

CCF. These were the days before health and Rather than putting him off, this baptism of fire cemented his love safety risk assessments curtailed a whole range for, and a life-long service in, the CCF. Many adventure training trips

of adventurous activities.’

132

CANTUARIAN | 2020

Martin Franks (fourth from the right). One of only a handful of UK servicemen who was in uniform on the 75th Remembrance Parade of 1993, and still in uniform for the centenary Remembrance Parade twenty five years later in 2018. The parades were a highlight of the year for Martin; he was always impressed with the respectful manner of the pupils and solemnity of the event.

in 2020. Martin’s caring and generous nature, together with his inimitable sense of humour, were a perfect fit for his role as Marlowe tutor, and he thoroughly enjoyed the time he spent as Deputy HsM for Simon Anderson, although I know he was disappointed not to have the opportunity to take on the HsM role.

It would be understandable to forget, with all this going on, that Martin was first and foremost employed as a full-time teacher of Design & Technology, where he was immensely popular with his students and much valued by his colleagues. His commitment, dedication, hard work and willingness always to go above and beyond what was required and expected were exceptional, as was his composure under pressure, wise advice, and the trademark Franks mischievous sense of humour.

In the early 2000s the MoD began to withdraw funding, leading to the RN section closing, followed not long after by what had been a thriving RAF section under the direction of Andrew McFall. The CCF was left with just its Army section, and over the next few years falling rolls meant that this too looked like it might not survive, until the timely appointment of Major Vintner, who instigated a revival of fortunes.

Commenting on Martin, Major Vintner writes, ‘Like a fine vintage wine, some things when laid down get better with age, and Martin has done both these things over the past few decades whilst here at King’s; it’s just a shame he was corked. Joking aside, he was always one of the kindest and most generous colleagues, especially with his time, and a true friend to many. Younger staff in the CCF/DofE crowd referred to Martin as Dad because he would make you feel safe and secure, and always seemed to know how to bring out the best in people. With a dry, old schoolmaster manner and a mischievous glint in his eye, you could never quite be sure when he was joking or serious.

He had his own inimitable style and would think nothing of popping open an umbrella in the middle of a tactical exercise if it meant he stayed dry, or turning up at the top of a hill with several bargain buckets of chicken to feed a hungry bunch of coast-tocoast riders, when all you asked him to get was a couple of bags of crisps.

Martin simply provided a platinum package in everything he did.’

Martin informs me that there are many stories he dares not share for ‘fear of litigation or reprisals’, although he did mention he is thinking of writing a book. In September 2018 he chose to move from a fulltime to a part-time teaching role, after he was invited to take up the position of Assistant Pastor at his local church in Whitstable, where he had already served for many years. When Covid struck and the school offered voluntary redundancy Martin, being close to retirement and faced with an increasing church workload to support his local community through Covid, chose to leave King’s, albeit with a heavy heart. At that time, he wrote to the HM informing him, ‘There hadn’t been a single day during his thirty years at King’s when he wished he was doing something else.’ Martin has wonderful memories of his various roles, the pupils, staff and support colleagues, and his only sadness is, like so many from 2020, that he never got to say a proper farewell to everyone. He says leaving King’s will leave a huge gap in his life, but I know he will be as committed to his new church role as he has been to King’s.

Stepping down from leading the CCF did not signify a reduction in Martin’s commitment to the cocurricular life, since he immediately started a school Target Shooting Club with the aid of the super-supportive and talented shooting coach, Keith Jefferies. The club flourished right up until its sudden Covid-related closure

CANTUARIAN | 2020

133

Charlie Chester

by Jonathan Pope, Matt Bell and Lynda Horn

C

harlie’s nine years at King’s have left an indelible mark on the lives of his students and colleagues. After a highly successful career in Royal Dutch Shell plc (aka Shell), Charlie set about bringing to bear a formidable set of skills, experience and business acumen to improving the lives of his students and colleagues around him. He joined King’s in 2012 and immediately threw himself into all aspects of King’s life with enormous energy and skill.

carefully reviewed the statistical data previously and bringing nuance and empathetic insights as towhat the data truly represented.

He was particularly involved in the peer listening programme, where he brought his people skills and expertise in counselling to make a difference to the more vulnerable members of the school community. Charlie also turned his skills and vision toward the US university application programme, which involved many hours of additional work, the success of which can be measured by the number of students who chose to pursue their future studies in the US.

As Head of Economics, he was exceptionally hard-working and used his business skills to deftly administer the everyday workings of the department and Despite the many hours spent his ideals to establish a vision for administering the department the department, developing the and helping students, Charlie whole child and placing equal also knew how to have fun. A emphasis on engaging, applied, colleague commented, “The first and theoretical learning. It is no time I really got to see him in full coincidence that Sherwood Lam, flow was at the rugby master’s ‘Charlie enthused his students, using his wit, who was the 2016 RES Young dinner, when he showed himself Economist of the Year, happened in-depth knowledge of his subject, anacedotes to be a natural cheerleader and to be Charlie’s tutee and no doubt a man who loved a good rugby and passion for the real-world application of felt the energy and enthusiasm song! His singing prowess was that his tutor displayed for wider not restricted to rugby dinners Economics’ academic study. As a classroom and for several years he would teacher, Charlie enthused his students, using his wit, in-depth grab the microphone at the end of the staff Christmas party and send knowledge of his subject, anecdotes and passion for the real-world everyone off with a rendition of Sinatra’s ‘New York, New York’, if application of Economics. He regularly used his extensive business I remember correctly. That definitely was a floor-filler.” He was the contacts to organise trips and speakers, bringing real-world business chief entertainer at the annual Charity Darts evening, and he always into the classroom. won the ‘Best Walk-On’ prize, if not the best darts prize, although he was no mug with a set of arrows in his hand. He even arranged one Charlie was never one to find short-cuts or simple solutions to year for every player to have their own personalised flights, giving problems and always went the extra mile to make a difference to the evening a very professional look. those around him. Despite running one of the largest departments in the school, working as Deputy Head of Sixth Form and coaching This attitude of service and duty to those around him has left a legacy rugby, he was exceptionally generous with his time, never turning a of professionalism, empathy, hard work and positivity within the areas pupil away from his classroom door, or cutting short a conversation. where he worked. He will He was driven to get the best out of all around him and had time for be sorely missed at King’s everyone, no matter how small the problem may have been. Charlie by pupils and staff alike. He was not scared to challenge the current status quo or to ask direct is ideally suited to the next questions about our methods and procedures – an ‘always room for chapter in his career, and improvement’ mentality was evident, and Charlie brought energy, we know that he will bring wit and wisdom in equal measure to the role. His knowledge of the his multifaceted skill set to pupils, what made them tick and how best to realise their potential, the role of counsellor and were key to his popularity and universal respect. continue to make a real difference to the lives of As Deputy Head of Sixth Form Charlie was everything you might wish many young people over for: professional, personable and pro-active. In the Academic Review the years ahead. Group meetings Charlie would champion the students, having 134

CANTUARIAN | 2020

Jill Moorcroft

by Camilla Titterton

J

ill was a much loved and valued member of the Learning achieve. Jill always likes her students and never has a bad word to say Enhancement team at King’s, since arriving nine years ago. about any of them. In 1970 she became the first woman teacher in a She spent many of those years being SENCo, but chose to step boy’s school, working with the lowest ability group. Her probationary away from this role in her last few years. Jill’s appearance may be year passed easily with the help of a motorbike that the boys one of a mild-mannered, gentle, lady, queued to clean each day. A degree but she is not to be underestimated; in Special Education was followed by there is something of the Miss Marple a variety of posts in state secondary about Jill. With a sharp mind, a quick and special schools. In 1980 her wit and steely sense of justice, there husband was head-hunted and they is no pulling the wool over Jill’s eyes. moved to London, Ontario. At this Always smiling, almost unflappable, time, Jill was asked if she would like Jill finds people naturally turn to her to train as a speech pathologist and for advice and, however busy she is, this opened up a whole new field of she always makes time for others, interest working across elementary whether a student or a colleague. high schools and included working When asking colleagues for their with children who had articulation thoughts on Jill, every single person difficulties, were hearing impaired, mentioned her kindness. And Jill autistic or had severe speech and really is very kind. She is also wise language disorders. and has an encyclopaedic knowledge ‘At King’s she created a wonderful legacy in the of myriad subjects, so she is the sort returning to the UK, she opened Learning Enhancement Department; any student On of person you always want by your up the second speech and language who asks for help will never be turned away. ’ side. Her great humour and humility secondary unit in Kent. A stint as shine through and she is the least SENCo and Assistant Headteacher judgemental person I know. Fiercely proud of her East London roots in the state system followed, before a complete change when Jill and Jewish heritage, and working from the age of 11, Jill has had a moved into the independent sector as SENCo, which continued varied career with a wealth of experiences. A great storyteller, Jill into her post at King’s. Jill has been teaching for fifty years, so it was slips nuggets of her interesting life into conversation, without any hard to pin her down to the highlights, but when pushed to name a sense of boastfulness. These stories include gems from her London few she said that the setting up of a baby-sitting circle for parents days, such as skipping school in her Sixth Form in order to hang out whose children had significant special needs comes high on the list. with Tony Booth in Shepherd’s Market; zipping around London on She also mentioned bringing a boy into mainstream education who her motorbike; being a postwoman for Hayley Mills’ aunt and doing could only speak in single words with little prospect of employment all the publicity for the Round House theatre by hopping on and in the future, but when he left school he was able to be employed as off buses with a bucket of paste and self-designed posters for walls a milkman. Another memorable moment was assessing a thirteenand lamp posts. When Jill moved to Liverpool, life remained equally year-old who was thought to have moderate learning difficulties and colourful, since she spent much of her time hanging around with finding that, in fact, the student was of a good average intelligence, Adrian Henri and the Liverpool poets in Liverpool 8. Once married, but was actually deaf and no one had realised. with three children, she claims she became boringly respectable, even becoming Mayor of Fordwich. My favourite story, however, Jill enjoyed nine wonderful years at King’s working with some remains how she is still convinced that she caught the bubonic extraordinary young people, which she describes as a superb way to plague whilst taking part in an archaeological dig. end a long career. I know that as well as loving the teaching, she also enjoyed the lunches. At King’s she created a wonderful legacy in the No one actually knows how many qualifications Jill has, perhaps Learning Enhancement Department; any student who asks for help not even Jill, but there are teaching degrees and qualifications in will never be turned away. Jill has mentored many students who owe psychology, employment law, speech and language, and assessing much of their success to her. She was a much-loved tutor in Walpole, for access arrangements. Jill’s greatest passion, though, is ultimately a House that remained close to her heart, even when she chose to for teaching and helping every student fulfil their potential. Jill had step back from tutoring. For many years, Jill ran the Thornton Society always wanted to teach and decided to train as a teacher in 1967 for budding psychologists and organised Christmas wreath-making when, on teaching practice in Liverpool, she came across eleven- in the department. Retirement beckons, but this certainly will not be year-olds who could not read and thus began the focus of her future dull or quiet for Jill. She will be able to spend time more time with career. Jill believes every child can succeed and, with great teaching, her beloved grandchildren and continue to engage in her passions huge amounts of encouragement and giving the students the self- for quilting, sewing, gardening and travelling on steam trains. We will belief to propel themselves to success, her students almost always do miss her. CANTUARIAN | 2020

135

pam brown

by Camilla Titterton

P

am’s life has always been intertwined with King’s, beginning with her being born in a flat, which is now the upstairs of the Bursar’s house. She was then christened in what is now the school uniform shop and went to school in what is now Kingsdown House. After working at Wincheap Primary School and in the ASD unit at Simon Langton Grammar school, Pam joined the SEN department at King’s, in 2012, under Michele Bradburn. Pam was their first fulltime teacher, working with Gill Moorcroft, Nesta Wigan and Cherry Barnes. Soon after joining King’s she recalls having a great chat with a colleague called Mike Turner, who played a rather important role in her life, later on. Pam eventually became SENDCo, when the Learning Enhancement Department moved to The Hub, a busy but enjoyable job, which ensured she was never bored. Helping students achieve their best was very fulfilling and Pam was very proud to do this job.

During her time at King’s, Pam launched the popular Poetry Slam, for King’s Week, which has become a much-loved annual event. For a time she also ran a creative writing activity, having herself successfully completed a Master’s degree in Creative Writing, whilst at King’s. Pam was a tutor in Broughton, for six years, which she loved.

She recalls that the first duty she did alone, on a Friday evening, she was frightened to be responsible for sixty teenage girls who really did not want to do prep at the end of the week and it took her two weeks to find one of the rooms, because the house layout was so confusing, but both Cath Shearer, the Broughton Housemistress, and Carol French, the Broughton Matron, were excellent mentors for someone whose only experience of boarding schools was via Enid Blyton. Pam grew to love being part of the House community. One Christmas, Pam introduced a snowing Christmas tree, which the students loved, but she was asked to take it home when the students kept turning the speed up and the whole House was blasted with tiny polystyrene balls. The cleaners were not impressed.

Pam particularly enjoyed House social events, especially listening to the students practise their House Song. Watching her brilliant and funny tutees grow up was also a real privilege. In her last year at King’s, she moved to being a day house tutor in Mitchinsons.

136

CANTUARIAN | 2020

Pam’s much-loved grandchildren were born whilst she was at King’s and they joined the preschool French club here, which ensured plenty of trips to the social centre for cake with them. Her grandchildren also loved running across ‘Namma’s Park’, otherwise known as Green Court. One of the things that Pam most valued about working at King’s was working alongside talented, professional and caring colleagues. One of these colleagues in particular, Mike Turner, assisted by Alanna Fraser and Linda Renault, helped save Pam’s life when she collapsed at school after struggling for a short while with ill health. Pam remains thankful for their actions. Pam’s fighting spirit and determination meant that she did return to work after this dramatic turn of events and, although she has now made the decision to retire, she continues to enjoy being a grandma, treasuring every moment.

‘During her time at King’s, Pam launched the popular Poetry Slam, for King’s Week, which has become a much-loved annual event.’

Sue Kerridge

by Karen Palmer and Lisa Cousins

A

fter working at schools in Durham and Barnard Castle, Sue Kerridge joined the Maths Department in September 2010.

Among her many qualifications, Sue came with a doctorate in education; with this married to patience and a strong sense of humour, it was no surprise the pupils warmed to her at once.

Sue’s dogs were not as common a sight on Green Court as some of our other canine friends, but they were and remain so today, a central part of her life. Pictures of her new litters of puppies were proudly shown and it was during her time at King’s that she started to volunteer with organisations that use dogs to help with therapy.

The respect and admiration Sue earned were most apparent when you paid a visit to her classroom; it was decorated with thank you cards from grateful students and their parents. When you covered one of Sue’s lessons, you often felt it was impossible to measure up to the kind, patient and successful teacher she so evidently was.

With many years of experience under her belt, Sue knew exactly how to motivate and assist the young minds in front of her, even if they were not mathematically minded or keen on the subject; no doubt her classroom resembling a school tuck shop played a big part.

We knew Sue’s time with us was limited since she was already on phased retirement, but we were sad to lose her when the time finally came; her absence is greatly felt by both staff and pupils.

Christmas holidays were often a busy time for Sue, preparing her students for their January Maths IGCSE. She was always willing to give her time, either in person or via Skype, and the support she gave was invaluable. Sue was so appreciated that she was once given a blank cheque (which she clearly didn’t fill in), which compared favourably with an offer from a former pupil at a previous school ‘to beat up anyone of her choice’.

Maths soon had to share Sue with the computing department; her skills were much sought after. Although she was initially a tutor in Walpole, it was not long before Lisa Cousins recognised her talents and commitment, and persuaded her to join the Luxmoore team. Sue was always baking with the girls and they even were lucky enough to be invited round for movie nights at her house. Sue’s chronic allergy to alcohol was often a point of discussion because those unaware of it (or even those that were aware) did not always realise that something seemingly normal, such as nail varnish, could induce a reaction.

‘Although she was initially a tutor in Walpole, it was not long before Lisa Cousins recognised her talents and commitment, and persuaded her to join the Luxmoore team.’

CANTUARIAN | 2020

137

Paula Williams

by Al Holland

P

aula started at King’s in September 2009 having worked with Closer to home, Paula worked in the Kent Careers Service in almost every independent school tandem with the OKS office to facilitate in Kent, including working with John Parker who previously recent graduates returning to speak held the careers advisor post at King’s. It would be fair to say that and share their experiences of their once she was full-time at King’s she knew her way around and quickly journey into and through university established herself within our community. In conjunction with Ian with the current 6b year group. This McEwen, Paula was instrumental in setting up a dedicated Careers personal, King’s perspective was both Centre in 2009 that was based in what is now Computer Suite 2. As invaluable and encouraging and gave ever, schools evolve and morph and it was in reassurance at 2017 that Paula (and the considerable wealth a time when ‘I was hugely grateful of resources she had expertly amassed) the future could moved to the current Careers Centre that seem potentially and appreciative for adjoins the ‘Chums’ social centre – an ideal daunting. the professionalism and location for the causal drop-in-and-explore conversations that Paula was so very happy to genuine interest she took in Paula was a tutor in Broughton for three years have. before transferring to Carlyon, where she was her tutees and how closely a tutor for seven years. As the Housemaster Paula considered it a privilege to work at at the time, I was hugely grateful and she followed and nurtured King’s but it was both the senior pupil body appreciative for the professionalism and their academic progress.’ and the staff who were truly fortunate to have genuine interest she took in her tutees and such an experienced advisor to dispense her how closely she followed and nurtured their sage counsel. Paula was always generous with her time, as well as academic progress during their time at school. keeping fully up-to-date with all developments; in short, Paula was an authority in whom you had complete trust. When UK university Her work at King’s was challenging with so much at stake for the fees tripled in 2012, Paula recognised the parents’ growing interest pupils and their ambitions of securing a top university place, but in American Universities and introduced SAT tuition to King’s and Paula never lost her sense of fun, dressing up as a pirate for a USA applications from pupils proceeded to quadruple over the next Careers Day or venturing into the spirit of a musical chairs game at a few years. To further her insight, Paula spent holiday time State-side House Christmas party. We were so sorry to see Paula move on from to visit many American universities so that she could, first-hand, pass King’s but wish her the very best with her exciting new initiatives, on what she had learned to our pupils and their parents. undertaking a psychotherapy course and also working for ‘My Future Choice’ (aka Cambridge Occupational Analysts). Paula single-handedly coordinated the UCAS applications for several years – a huge undertaking only possible because of her meticulous organisation and scrupulous attention to detail, checking references and personal statements and ensuring the applications best showcased our 6as to their chosen institutions.

Inevitably, as Sixth Form numbers grew, the UCAS team expanded, but Paula was always at the vanguard and the go-to-guru. Other welcome initiatives were that Paula put together the popular and informative Careers Newsletter as well as inviting experts from a huge range of potential career paths (from the Forces to Michelin-starred chefs) to speak to small groups of Sixth Formers exploring the options for their exciting next stages. Paula also coordinated Fifth Formers with a range of psychometric tests to ascertain their interests and suitability for a variety of careers. Careers Fairs that invited speakers and representatives from some of the most prestigious institutions globally were a regular fixture in the school calendar, with Paula cultivating positive professional links with admissions tutors and faculty departments.

138

CANTUARIAN | 2020

Ben Pennells

by Robert Harrison

A

fun, friendly and disarming colleague and member of the Common Room, Ben Pennells influenced many of the staff and student body in his time as Head of Modern Languages and all-round great bloke. A formidably gifted dual linguist who offered both Spanish and French to degree level, he ran the department smoothly with a light touch and in a way that had everyone feel part of a team.

He would always start lunches in traditional French style with a little ‘bon ap’ before eating! But if you thought languages were his only gift, guess again! A very accomplished tennis player, as well as Director General of Model United Nations at King’s, Ben was never without things to do. After an enjoyable time in Tradescant as tutor, he sought pastures new as Deputy in School House and the boys received him warmly.

‘A very accomplished tennis player, as well as Director General of Model United Nations at King’s, Ben was never without things to do.’

It is sad that we have lost such a genuinely lovely colleague but also a fantastic professional who was inspirational and a role model to many, but it is of course hugely satisfying to see him become Deputy Head Academic at St. Lawrence and it will surely be yet another place where he can make a very great and real impact.

CANTUARIAN | 2020

139

Linley Portsmouth

by Matt Thornby

B

eing an Old Salopian and having been coached by one-time final day at school he still had time to sit down with me and discuss King’s Headmaster, Mark the future of the 6a boys, and Lascelles, Linley was well the concept of introducing prizes aware of the expectations and for acts of kindness within the peculiar rhythms of a full-time house. We were to call these the boarding school and was quick Portsmouth Prizes. Linley was a to immerse himself in all areas huge support to me in my first of King’s life. Arriving as a PE year as Galpin’s Housemaster; teacher Linley eventually took I cannot undervalue the on the Head of Core PE role after importance of having him by my a couple of years. A supremely side. I am indebted to him, and talented sportsman in his own will continue to hold on to the right (as demonstrated when strong values that he emanated: playing for the 1st XI against kindness, leadership, and the OKS!), Linley quickly proved inspiration.’ himself to be a top-level coach in all major sports, working with Of his involvement in the CCF our top teams in rugby, football and Duke of Edinburgh schemes and cricket. Linley took on the Major Adam Vintner writes, responsibility of running the ‘Small and compact like a Swiss ‘He loved taking the shy boy to one side to entire football club and did so pocket penknife, Linley is, in a with energy and distinction, similar fashion, put together right help bolster his confidence; the musician very much in the mould of David and, like the incredibly useful to encourage to do more sport; and the Moyes taking over from Sir Alex pocket tool, he proved that he Ferguson. Linley was great value was equally diverse, fulfilling sportsman to get him to dream big.’ on sporting and extra-curricular multiple roles within the school trips and in his short time visited South Africa, Spain, France, Wales, and turning his hand to anything and everything. Despite his physical Scotland, and the Peak and Lake Districts on various school groups. size, which is easily replaced, he is a big loss to the school. There are many who would like to try and fill his shoes. However, nobody could Having boarded himself, Linley was keen to involve himself in match his physical prowess as a shadow cricket batting champion!’ that aspect of school life and was swiftly appointed as a Deputy Housemaster in Galpin’s House. Of his contribution, Rob Sanderson Linley married his better half, Fleur, in the Cathedral Crypt and then (HSM) writes, ‘If anyone has ever met Linley they would tell (by took the decision to work, travel and further develop their command the way he was always impeccably dressed) that he was efficient, of French and Spanish languages. COVID proved another barrier to organised, and reliable. However, more importantly, he was a huge overcome and, whilst most people’s worlds got smaller, Linley and support to the boys of the house. Everyone loved Mr. Portsmouth. He Fleur are now preparing to work in Nepal. All they left behind at was someone they could confide in, or talk through the latest sports King’s wish them well for the exciting chapters ahead but when his fixture with. When his evening duty was due to end at 11.30pm it return to the UK is on the horizon any school in the country will be would be common to find him with all the 6a boys deep in discussion fortunate to secure his services. long past midnight. Linley was Mr. Approachable – and that goes for the parents as well. Linley oozed charm and wisdom. He had an incredible gift for being able to sum up a boy’s progress in just a few short words, but more importantly he had the gift of inspiration. The boys looked up to Linley as someone to emulate. He loved taking the shy boy to one side to help bolster his confidence; the musician to encourage to do more sport; and the sportsman to get him to dream big. Linley’s office in Galpin’s House had a large leather sofa surrounded by football shirts and trophies, alongside a computer permanently open on the attendance register. He was one not to mess with if you happened to skip a lesson, but he was also one to hand out the sweets if you earned a Bene Fecit. Linley felt passionately about nurturing the community of the House, the dissolution of hierarchy and entitlement, and advocating service leadership. On his

140

CANTUARIAN | 2020

Sophie Rajska

by Kimberley Budden

S

ophie is one of life’s rays of sunshine. She is universally known to be committed, hard-working, reliable and enthusiastic, and she put a little sparkle into everything she did at King’s, whether it was her Biology lessons, coaching and leading in sport, spending quality time with the girls in Harvey or helping to make King’s Week an enormous success.

Miss Rajska joined King’s as a Sports Graduate Assistant in 2012 after completing her Medical Biology degree at the University of Edinburgh.

She immediately threw herself into school life, becoming a sought-after colleague and a valued member of the Broughton team.

community, and the weekends when she was on duty were always much anticipated, with ‘Sausage Nights’ being particularly popular.

Sophie is just so wonderfully capable and her refreshing honesty was much valued by those around her. A very real strength is her ability to look for the positives in other people in any given situation. Where others moan, Sophie strives for solutions. She is the first to ask if she can help out by taking on more in order to alleviate others’ workloads.

She has always embodied a tremendous sense of fun and vitality and her true love and appreciation of life radiates at every turn. She was a tower of strength to her tutees, who valued her knowledge and experience. Ever the diplomat, she has an intuitive ability to select the right words and does so with the utmost sincerity. Sophie was a very popular member of the Harvey tutor team and the other tutors speak highly of her kindness and utter dependability. She will be sincerely missed “Sophie was a joy to work by all; Epsom College really has taken on one of with and an absolute the true Harvey legends.

The school wisely enticed Sophie to stay on, making her a full-time teacher of Biology, with some PSHE, in September 2014. She also began her teacher training at this point and as her PGCE and NQT mentor, she made my life incredibly easy, since she is a naturally gifted educator who has a wonderful rapport with the pupils asset to King’s, always she teaches. It was obvious very early on that embodying the ‘work hard, From the start, Sophie was heavily involved Sophie would become an outstanding, inspiring and innovative teacher. Her caring attitude, high in King’s sporting life. Amelie Blum says that play hard’ ethos of the expectations and the active interest she took in though she is happy that Sophie has moved on school.” her students allowed her to get the very best out to a new and exciting job, she was absolutely even the most reluctant. Sophie’s passion for the subject, unfailing gutted when she heard she was leaving. Sophie was the first person reliability, collaborative approach, Christmas decoration skills and all she spoke to when she joined the school and she was fantastic to her helpful input will be greatly missed in the Biology Department. work with ever since. She will truly miss seeing her around school and on the Lacrosse field and on those early morning coach journeys.

In the summer of 2015, Sophie joined Rob Sanderson as Assistant Richard Singfield also sings Sophie’s praises, saying that she was an King’s Week Manager. Rob says that Sophie was truly fabulous in this excellent Head of Lacrosse, as she is very passionate about the sport, role, as she was extraordinarily calm and graceful amidst extremely and was in particular passionate about the girls getting the best busy schedules. She was also wonderfully charming with pupils, experience possible. She worked tirelessly to get the best out of the parents and staff alike, putting them all at ease, ready to enjoy the pupils from Shell up to 6a and many of the girls went on to represent next King’s Week performance. By her own admission she was happy Kent and the South East and they took great pride in playing for the to grasp the nettle and do jobs that nobody else wanted to do – be school’s 1st XII. On top of this she dedicated a lot of time to tennis in that tidying Green Court after the Serenade or politely reminding a the summer term and riding in activities, as well as sailing in the past. patron that we were in the Cathedral Precincts. She was efficient, She will be sorely missed. fun, firm, fair and friendly.

With her radiant smile, energy and can-do attitude, Sophie was a Sophie moved to Harvey House as Deputy in September 2015. Jo joy to work with and an absolute asset to King’s, always embodying Cook says that Sophie was a true stalwart in Harvey. Her genuine the ‘work hard, play hard’ ethos of the school. She achieved a empathy for others, allied with a no-nonsense approach, were tremendous amount in her time here and her love of the job and greatly appreciated by the Harvey girls and staff alike. Jo came to the school was clearly evident when she enthused her now husband, rely on her robust common sense and innate wisdom and Sophie Craig, to follow in her footsteps and undergo his own training to often showed foresight in being able to predict where the term’s become a qualified teacher at JKS. Personally, I am devastated to lose ‘flashpoints’ would be and always gives of her time ungrudgingly. the daily opportunity to see a treasured friend, but at least the risk Loyal to the cause, she was unwavering in her support of the Harvey of arriving at work in exactly the same spotty dress is lessened. Mrs. girls in all their endeavours, notably during the many interhouse Rajska-Barber will be missed by all who know her and we wish her matches and contests. Never one to put her own needs first, she the very best of luck in her new role at Epsom College. Come back to always sought out ways to help and support others in the boarding visit soon, Badger! CANTUARIAN | 2020

141

Annie Loveday

by Hester Davies

A

nnie joined King’s in September 2017, after having already spent three weeks at the school during her teacher-training year, in which time she made such an impression on the department with her verve and energy that, when a full-time position came up, it was a no-brainer. Her enthusiasm for history was evident from the outset, and her gruesome stories of revolution enlivened many a lesson. Like many historical figures, what Annie lacked in physical stature she made up for in charisma, and her energy and humour have been much missed this year by colleagues and pupils alike.

Annie truly embodied the King’s spirit of an all-rounder, and threw herself enthusiastically into all areas of school life, from her coaching of rowing and rugby, to netball (where her boundless positivity helped soften the blows of many a defeat at the hands of Sevenoaks).

I believe that standing court-side with someone in the pouring rain whilst down by 27-3 really gives you the measure of the person, and her endless (misplaced?) optimism was infectious. It made away matches a pleasure instead of a chore, and I miss our cups of tea and cake.

Annie also made her mark at King’s through her contribution to the annual Round the Island race, in which pupils, parents and OKS competed to sail their yachts around the Isle of Wight. Her appetite for adventure is a real loss to the common room.

Annie’s love for history extended to taking it beyond the classroom, and I got to know her best when she recruited me as resident Germanist for the Remove history trip in 2019. We walked miles around the city and not once did Annie’s good humour or energy It was a sad day for King’s when wane, even in the face of grumpy Annie sat down to watch an museum guides. Her knowledge episode of the Durrells, and was seemingly boundless, and decided that a Greek adventure ‘Her enthusiasm for history was evident whether it was briefing the was just the ticket. I must confess students on the history of the some apprehension about her from the outset, and her gruesome stories of Wannsee Conference, or about heading to sunnier climes in the revolution enlivened many a lesson.’ the perils of single-use plastic, middle of a global pandemic, but Annie was liked and respected by the students in equal measure and a year on I look very enviously at pictures of Greek coastal scenes and it was a fantastic trip to be a part of. Running a trip also placed Annie blue skies. Annie is now teaching in Athens, where she is inspiring in her element, with her oversized rucksacks, bottomless first-aid kits more future historians, and also taking on the new challenge of and many a ring-bound folder. teaching Geography, no doubt supported by her partner, Tom, who was part of our Geography Department here at King’s. Annie’s spirit In the department, Annie was a highly valued colleague and friend. and drive are much needed in the world of education, and we look Her palpable love of history, and her innate ability to communicate forward to seeing where her Greek adventure takes her. it to the pupils, made her a great success. She quickly won over the Remove set she was helping with the Cold War, even though they are always a hard audience to impress. In spite of bringing down the average age of the department by at least 15 years, she fitted in with her more aged colleagues almost seamlessly, while always being ready to take on received orthodoxy and challenge the status quo if she thought it necessary. She had a real devotion to the department, organising the sixth form extension programme and holding mock Oxbridge interviews, participating in the GCSE revision classes and providing much-needed support for our annual Shell Ypres trip.

In Harvey House Annie was a well-loved tutor and a safe pair of hands, who was always a listening ear to a girl in need. Her empathy, care and devotion to the house made her a popular and well-loved tutor, who has been much missed by the girls this year.

142

CANTUARIAN | 2020

Lucy Jones

by Edd Flower

I

met Lucy for the first time at a shared INSET at Junior King’s, where a huge number of staff who did not know one another were meeting for one of the first times that INSET between the two establishments was shared.

anecdote upon which she will dine out for some time to come. Away from the tennis courts, Lucy took part in a rich variety of activities suited to the ‘broad brush’ education for which King’s is famous. A vicious hockey ball injury to her foot in year one did not prevent her involvement in the King’s sporting programme, a To have come into this testament to her dedication to the environment with the staff wider cause and the edification of the of one school would have students in her care. been daunting, but to come At the heart of what Lucy did for the into a place where literally duration of her time at King’s, whether hundreds of people were in the classroom, on the sports field, gathering and revisiting in the boarding house or around the old friendships must have Precincts more generally, was a real been especially so. Lucy sense of passion for the role of teacher was assured, confident and and care-giver. She advocated for seemed comfortable in her the students in her care and shared own skin. These qualities many a concern for their wellbeing would serve her well and educational progress over many throughout her three years a Common Room break. Her students at King’s. knew that they could approach her with any question about any issue, As she settled into her whether Chemistry-related or, in the role, billeted in an obscure case of the girls in Luxmoore and central Canterbury flat Harvey, about trials and tribulations of away from the majority of growing up or just for a general chat. the staff already in school The students’ wellbeing was, and is, accommodation, she fitted at the heart of what Lucy does. Lucy into her role of Chemistry leaves a considerable vacancy in the Teacher like an old pair of Chemistry Department, King’s Tennis ‘Her students knew that they could approach shoes. She forged strong and in the pastoral side of school life. relationships amongst A true all-rounder in the most positive her with any question about any issue.’ the staff and her students sense, she threw herself into this looked with admiration at her considerable talent for Chemistry (she intense lifestyle we all choose, and has thrived. Caterham’s loss was gained her PhD in her first year at King’s). They knew that she had our gain, and our loss will be the gain of the British International passion for the subject and lessons were characterised by genuine School in Ho Chi Minh City. curiosity, a rare thing for a teacher to inject into a core subject students cannot forego until the end of GCSE. An Americanophile, a prodigiously talented baker, a Playstation 4 aficionado, a proud Welsh lass – it is all too tempting to try and As is required for any new teacher at King’s, Lucy got involved from the allocate Lucy a pigeon hole into which she would fit. However, in word go in the co-curricular side of the school. Her talent as a tennis her short time at King’s she has shown that she is all of these and player was noted by many, with what some described as an awkward more: a caring, dedicated and passionate teacher who goes the extra style of play being augmented by the utter power and accuracy of mile. I know that Harvey House and the Chemistry Department will her backhand. Tennis is a huge part of Lucy’s life, and the time that be poorer for her absence, as will the Common Room as a whole. she played with Tim Henman at her local club in Wales will be an

CANTUARIAN | 2020

143

Ling Kelly

by Lixin Liu

M

rs. Kelly joined the school in 2008 but now she has left the department will struggle to achieve the same standard.

Moving to King’s from Hong Kong, Mrs. Kelly quickly established herself as an inspiring and well-respected teacher. She went on to form strong working relationships with not only her colleagues but also the pupils. Over the years, she created a wealth of resources for the department. She always strove to engage herself in meetings and made intelligent contributions on teaching methods. She also got involved in various activities: ‘She will be missed co-leading a trip to China; taking pupils by the students to London for culture trips; helping in and her excellent a Chinese New Year celebration party; taking students to teach Mandarin teaching will serve in primary schools; helping to train them well in the students for the Mandarin speaking competition. Mrs. Kelly also generously future.’ gave her time to support Cantonese students for many years. She will be missed by the students and her excellent teaching will serve them well in the future. She also will be sincerely missed by her colleagues.

We know her future is full of potential in a very exciting new area. We wish her the very best for the future. 

144

CANTUARIAN | 2020

Will Flint

by David Perkins

W

ill’s letter of application to King’s was addressed to another school: King Edward’s or possibly King Edward. It was hard to say why he had confused – apparently confused – the school (founded 597) with a variety of potato (founded 1902) but for some reason his application managed to avoid the discard pile. There was a glimmer of something there. We gave him a go. After coming to King’s, Will developed into a proper History teacher, a teacher of wit and style. The pupils appreciated his personality and his care together with a sense that he does not live his life out of the catalogue of clichés.

Will has wide-ranging intellectual interests running from plain to fancy and back again. He is a scholar of literature who makes time to read each day. Like many us, he fails to understand how people find the time not to read. He has prodigious general knowledge: he scored noted victories in the King’s Week general knowledge competition.

So, he has tasted the theatre of dreams. He has also served in another arena.

The History Department has lost an IT champion as well as a general knowledge champion: he has re-booted the whole department more than once. It is no surprise that he is going to continue his teaching career in Germany. Will grew up on British military bases and has come across currywurst before. Having said that, wurst is probably the worst thing to mention, given that he is a vegetarian. Will is modest and selfdeprecating. His jokes are funny, genuinely funny. No, strike that out. He is a fount of knowledge. He can tell you whether an encyclopaedia would win a fight with a dictionary or vice versa. He can do all these things and more. He will be missed.

‘The pupils appreciated his personality and his care together with a sense that he does not live his life out of the catalogue of clichés.’

CANTUARIAN | 2020

145

Christina Astin

by Peter Henderson

‘D

o you have to be mad to teach Physics?’ That was the front cover headline for Nexus News, the student newsletter of the Institute of Physics, in October 2001. It appeared beneath a photograph of Christina in a laboratory with a group of prep school children. Inside she appeared as Case Study One: ‘I love my job. It’s intellectually stimulating, at times hilarious, and every day is certainly different. I work with an interesting bunch of people. I get paid well enough and I have an embarrassingly large amount of holiday. Yep, I’m a teacher.’

Yep, she was indeed. Christina arrived at King’s as Head of Physics in September 2000, having taught at Ealing, Sevenoaks and St Mary’s, Calne, though she had the experience of a spell in business in The City before heading to the labs. From the very beginning, it was obvious that she was more than just a teacher. In welcoming her, The Cantuarian noted: ‘She says she is happiest when singing (mainly in choirs), playing Schubert on the piano, travelling (recently to Uzbekistan, Iceland and India), trekking, dining well, and zooming along country roads in the Spitfire.’

first female Physics teacher and the youngest in her department, she excelled in widening the appeal of her subject. King’s Week 2001 saw her feature in ‘Ready, Steady, Teach!’ and doing her best to enlighten Theresa May, then Shadow Education Secretary, when she visited the school, though even more of a challenge was drawing up the risk assessment for using Dick Churcher’s hot air balloon for physics experiments on the Green Court.

‘A pupil could get vaporised’ was omitted. Christina also gave Harvey Society talks on subjects such as ‘Recent Revolutions in Cosmology’ and ‘The Music of the Spheres’, introduced the British Science Association’s CREST Awards, and launched ‘Lab on the Lawn’, popular with children of all ages, in King’s Week 2010.

One of her greatest successes was the Young Scientists project, which started in 2006.

Professor Ghazwan Butrous, a former parent, initiated this in conjunction with Christina. A website backed by the Butrous Foundation was soon up and running. Based at the school, it operated as a Thursday afternoon activity, but part of the aim was to involve youngsters from other ‘Central to all Christina did was a passionate local schools and then further advocacy of science and an awareness of the Her subsequent teaching career afield. Very soon, such was the world of education beyond the school walls. As is easy to summarise: four years reach of the internet and the as Head of Physics and then ten quality of the Young Scientists the first female Physics teacher and the youngest years as Head of Science – with Journal, contributors and editors in her department, she excelled in widening the two interludes of maternity were recruited from around the appeal of her subject.’ leave on the arrivals of Emily world. Original research, book and Wilfred; a tutor in Jervis reviews, interviews and much and then in Marlowe; leading the school trip on the Trans-Siberian more were included. Conferences were held in Canterbury and Railway in 2003, as well as going to Iceland with the Geographers and elsewhere, and the ‘magazine’ achieved a national and international Geologists in 2012 and to Costa Rica in 2014; help with badminton; reputation. and participation in school choirs. But no summary can do full justice to who she is and what she achieved.

Recognition of this remarkable achievement came at a meeting of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Scientific Research in Learning and If anyone wondered about her communication skills then they soon Education at the House of Lords in July 2012. Chaired by Baroness had the chance to see her on television. In 2002 she was one of some Susan Greenfield, the session looked at ‘The Benefits and Limitations 1,500 applicants for a presenter’s job on BBC’s science programme of Using Innovative Technology in Education’. The speakers were Tomorrow’s World. One of 140 selected for auditions, then 20 at a two university professors, and then, for her 30 minutes, Christina on day’s workshop-audition, she made it to the last six. The semi-finals Young Scientists. I think she enjoyed herself. were broadcast live and viewers’ telephone votes picked Christina as a finalist. She did not win but the BBC’s loss was our gain.

In 2014 Christina ‘retired’ as a teacher, although she contributed to the Salters Horners Advanced Physics textbook published in 2015 Central to all Christina did was a passionate advocacy of science and an so that something of those lessons survives on the printed page. awareness of the world of education beyond the school walls. As the She now took on a newly created role as Head of Partnerships. In 146

CANTUARIAN | 2020

many respects this was building on the school’s long tradition of involvement with the community. One major recent example was Saturday Smarties, which had started in 2013. Local primary school children were invited on Saturday mornings for experiments in laboratories, supervised by members of staff (with Eirian Kornicki and Christina to the fore) alongside pupils. ‘Rainbows, eyeballs and fireworks’ made up a favourite session and were a reminder (to those who needed it) that science can be fun. By 2020 over 300 children had participated.

Christina built on this and became one of the leaders in a field that has an increasingly high profile in the educational world. In theory it was a part-time role, but you would not believe it. Working from three different offices in Lattergate over the next six years – two on the ground floor and one up in the attic – Christina seemed to be everywhere. The emphasis was very much on sharing and mutual benefit – working with other schools as well as universities and accessing sponsorship and funding from business and government.

Equally important was the involvement of pupil volunteers who were enthused by Christina’s own pride in sharing what King’s has to offer.

She provided the rapidly expanding programme with coherence and drive, and took others with her.

Anyone who wants to get some idea of what Christina achieved should have a look at the Partnerships & Volunteering Review 2020.

This is a fascinating document with 36 pages of articles by 21 pupils and numerous photographs, all edited and designed by Daniel Koo of The Grange. There are chapters on ‘Primary School Partnerships’,

‘East Kent Schools Together’, ‘Making Science Accessible’ and ‘Musical Inspiration’. All show enthusiasm for and appreciation of their involvement with the Partnerships programme. It is in effect a magnificent tribute to Christina.

One of her last major projects was setting up the admirable ‘Sounding Out’. This offers music lessons (initially in the violin or trumpet) to primary school children and the opportunity to sing and play in small groups. It is also a reminder that Christina is a talented musician – a Licentiate of Trinity College London. Her rich mezzo-soprano has been much valued in choirs both professional and amateur. She could also be heard as a soloist on occasion and I particularly remember songs from Frauenliebe und Leben at a Canterbury Festival Umbrella event in the Schoolroom in 2002.

The Common Room was lucky to have such a distinguished colleague.

She is charming and forceful, entertaining and down to earth, and excellent company. Today she tends to zoom along on a bicycle, rather than in that Spitfire, but in other respects she has not slowed down. She has for some years taken on a consultancy role that will continue – have a look at astinconsulting.com – so, if you want some good advice, you know who to ask. The children in that Nexus News photograph were holding up cards reading ‘Absolutely definitely yes!’ and the final encomium comes, appropriately these days, from a pupil on the Twittersphere: ‘Thank you, Miss Astin, for all you have done for the school – you are an inspiration to us.’ Absolutely. Definitely.

Yes!

CANTUARIAN | 2020

147

148

CANTUARIAN | 2020

CANTUARIAN | 2020

149

THE CANTUARIAN 2020

www.kings-school.co.uk info@kings-school.co.uk +44 (0) 1227 595501 150

CANTUARIAN | 2020