The Colfeian Magazine - 2021/2022

THE CHRONICLES OF COLFE’S SCHOOL AND OF THE OLD COLFEIANS EDITOR: MS L CHAPMAN

WHAT’S

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BOARD OF GOVERNORS

MASTER OF THE

Gavin Bacon

APPOINTED BY THE FOUNDATION TRUSTEE

Matthew Pellereau BSc

(Chairman)

Sean Williams MA (Oxon) MPA (Harvard)

(Deputy Chair of Governors)

Prof Angela Brueggemann DPhil

Serena Cooke

Daniel Coulson BSc (Hons) MA MRICS

Timothy Lister

James Russell

Mark Williams

CO-OPTATIVE DIRECTORS (APPOINTED BY COLFE’S)

Julie Bradley LLB

Belinda Canham BA (Hons) JP (Safeguarding)

John Guyatt MA (Oxon)

Dr Nicola Jones (Cantab)

Joseph Mafe BSc

Christopher Ramsey MA (Cantab)

EX OFFICIO

Headmaster

Mr R Russell MA (Cantab)

Deputy Head

Mrs D Graham GRSM LRAM

Bursar; Clerk to the Governors

Mr M Adamson MA Cantab, FCA

Head of Junior School, Designated Safeguarding Lead

Ms C Macleod BA (Hons), MSc

Director of Admissions & Communications

Mrs K Bridgman BA (Hons)

Director of Sixth Form, Deputy Safeguarding Designated Person Head of Business & Economics

Mr S Drury BA (Hons), MA

Director of Pastoral Care, Designated Safeguarding Lead

Mrs J German BA (Hons)

Director of Studies

Mr L Rogers MA (Cantab)

Director of Teaching & Learning

Mrs J Sansome BSc (Hons), MSc

Art & Design

Mrs N Gudge BA (Hons)

Head of Department

Mrs J Burton BA (Hons)

Graphics Co-ordinator, Head of House: Beardwood

Mr S Zivanovic BA (Hons)

Mrs D Feddes Technician

Classics

Miss H Batten BA (Hons) Head of Department

Mr H Biggs BA (Hons)

Mrs N Herbert MA (Cantab)

Head of House: Bramley, Head of Eudaimonia

Miss C Le Hur MA (Cantab), MPhil Director of Community & Partnerships, Oxbridge Co-ordinator

Mr R Russell MA (Cantab) Headmaster

Mr D Titcombe BA (Hons) Design & Technology

Mrs C Cox BA (Hons)

Head of Department

Ms Y Bellis, BA (Hons)

Mr P Mayes BA (Hons)

Ms M Way BA (Hons)

Mr S Zivanovic BA (Hons)

Mr C Bradford Technician

Mrs E Chereau Technician Drama

Ms N Maher BA (Hons), Acting Dip

Director of Department

Mrs D Sutherland BA (Hons)

Miss C Westrip BA (Hons)

Mr G Morgan Theatre Technician

Economics & Business

Mr S Drury BA (Hons), MA

Head of Department, Director of Sixth Form, Deputy Safeguarding Designated Person

Mr M Amran BA (Hons)

Mr M Cox BSc (Hons) Master in charge of Business

Mr C Emmerich BA, MA, MSc

Miss K Lindley BSc(Hons) Master in charge of Economics, Head of Year 7

English

Mrs K Guy BA (Hons) Head of Department

Miss M Schramm BA, MA Assistant Director of Studies

Ms H Conway BA (Hons)

Mr T Cook BA (Hons)

KS3 Co-ordinator

Ms S Diamond BA, MA

Miss S Duke BA (Hons)

KS3 Learning Support Co-ordinator

Mr J Hope BA (Hons), MA Debating Co-ordinator

Ms M Solley KS5 Co-ordinator, 2i/c

Geography

Mrs H Nissinen BSc (Hons), MA Head of Department

Mrs F McAuliffe BSc (Hons) Miss C Shanks BA (Hons)

Mr O Snell BSc (Hons), MSc Assistant Director of Sixth Form (UCAS), Duke of Edinburgh Award

Mr W Walker BSc (Hons)

History

Ms O Crummay MSc

Head of Department/CCF

Mr C Deakin, BA (Hons)

Miss M Forbes BA (Hons) Miss P Howard BA (Hons) Mr H Wheadon BSc (Hons)

Learning Support

Miss A Coode BA (Hons)

Head of Department, Assistant Director of Outdoor Education Miss S Duke BA (Hons) KS3 Learning Support Co-ordinator Mrs C Scanlan BSc Learning Support Assistant Miss N Soriano Capell Learning Support Assistant Ms A Wigley BA

Maths

Mr A Guy MEng (Hons)

Head of Department

Miss P Bhanderi BSc (Hons) Head of KS3

Miss C Beale BSc (Hons), MA Digital Learning Co-ordinator

Dr C Buescu BSc (Hons), MSc, PhD Miss M Collett BSc, MSc

Mrs E Cordell BSc (Hons)

Mr E Hughes MEng

2nd i/c

Miss K Lindley BSc (Hons)

Head of Year 7, Master in charge of Economics

Mrs J Sansome BSc (Hons), MSc

Director of Teaching & Learning

Mrs C Santry BSc (Hons)

KS4 Co-ordinator

Miss Y Zhang BSc (Hons)

Head of KS5

Media Studies

Mr C Foxall BA (Hons)

Head of Department

Miss J Li-Sue BA (Hons), Dip NFTS

Head of House: Prendergast, Co-ordinator of ICT and Computing

Mr J Osei-Tutu BA (Hons), MA

Head of PHSEE, Assistant Head of Year 7 Mrs T Witham BA (Hons)

Media Technician

Modern Languages

Mr M Koutsakis MA

Head of Department, Head of German Mrs E Biggs BSc (Hons), MA

Assistant Director of Sixth Form, Lead Trainer

Ms L Chapman BA (Hons)

Head of Spanish

Mrs C Davies BA (Hons) Head of French

Mrs J German BA (Hons) Director of Pastoral Care (Designated Safeguarding Lead)

Ms N Saba DEUG

Mr S Ollerenshaw

Miss N Soriano Capell

Mrs K Thomsen MA

Miss G Walton-Green BA (Hons)

Ms A Wigley BA (Hons)

Music

Mr B Holmes MA (Cantab)

Director of Music

Mrs D Graham GRSM LRAM

Deputy Head

Mr L Rogers MA (Cantab) Director of Studies

Mr G Sycamore BA, Dip MusEd

Teacher of Music, Music Technician

Mr T Newberry BA (Hons), Dip ABRSM

Ms J Barber BA (Hons) Music Administrator

Outdoor Education

Major C Cherry BSc (Hons)

Head of Department, Duke of Edinburgh Award

Physical Education

Mrs N Rayes BEd (Hons), EMBA Director of Sport

Mr A Bateson BA (Hons) Assistant Director of Sport, Master in charge of Rugby

Mr L Fielden BA (Hons)

Head of House: Bramley, Master in charge of Tennis and KS4 PE

Mr L Kimberley BSc (Hons)

Master in charge of Football, Master in charge of EYFS & KS1 PE

Mr A Knowles BSc (Hons) Master in charge of KS2 Boys Games

Miss S Manzi BA (Hons)

Master in charge of Swimming, Assistant Head of House: Beardwood

Miss A Owen BSc (Hons) Master in charge of Hockey

Mr J Potter BA (Hons)

Master in charge of Cricket

Ms H Russell BSc (Hons)

Teacher of Games and Physical Education

Miss E Willats-Barrie BA (Hons) Master in charge of Netball Mrs L Williams

Sport Administrator, Coach Miss Marchant BSc

Ms R Hughes-Bunn BA (Hons) Teacher of Games Politics

Mr M Poolton BA (Hons), MSc Head of Department

Religion & Philosophy

Ms Z Kendrick BA (Hons), MEd Head of Department, Assistant Director of Outreach Mr K Puwar BA

Miss L Wraw BA (Hons) Assistant Head of House: Bramley, Cover Supervisor

Science - Biology

Dr G Zimmermann BSc, PhD Head of Biology

Dr S Ibendahl PhD

Mr C Morriss BSc (Hons) Head of Student Leadership, Deputy Designated Safeguarding Person

Miss A Pavesi BSc (Hons)

Mrs Brooke Smith BSc (Hons), MA Lead Science Practitioner

Science - Chemistry

Mr T Armstrong BSc

Head of Chemistry

Mr J Kiddey BSc (Hons)

Dr R Lindsay MSCi, PhD

Mr D Morrison BSc

Mr J Worley BSc (Hons), DIS

Head of House: Norton Science - Psychology

Dr J Lea PhD, BSc (Hons) Head of Psychology, Master in charge of Work Experience

Mrs L Dunster BSc (Hons)

Mrs D McKay BA (Hons)

Science - Physics

Mr J Fishwick BSc (Hons)

Head of Physics

Mr J Culkin MSc, MEd

Mr M Hillmer BSME MS

Miss S Jangra, MEng

Mrs J De Bolla Senior Technician

Mrs J Greenshields BSc (Hons), CBiol, MSB Physics Technician

Mrs J Kalaravy BSc Chemistry Technician

Mrs C Smales BSc (Hons) KS3 Technician

Combined Cadet Force

Major R Joyce Commanding Officer

WO2 A Coyle

SPSI

Support staff

Mrs A Salmon CSBM Executive Assistant to the Headmaster

Mrs K Bridgman BA (Hons) Director of Admissions & Communications

Mrs N Entwistle BA (Hons) Communications Manager

Mrs H Phipps BSc (Hons) Admissions Manager

Mrs J Vouillemin BA (Hons) Admissions & Communications Officer

Fr S Hall BA, MA (Oxon) School Chaplain

Mrs D Bean BA (Hons)

Head of Careers

Mrs H Englefield, BA (Hons), Dip Lib Head Librarian

Ms E Stephenson, BA (Hons) Library Assistant

Mrs J Cardnell, BA (Hons) Archivist

Miss H Roberts BSc (Hons) Examinations Officer

Mrs E Fitzpatrick BA (Hons) Sixth form Administrative Co-ordinator

Mrs L Banks Office Manager

Mrs M Bassett BSc Administrative Officer

Mrs J Pickering Administrative Officer

Mrs G Smereka Administrative Officer

Mrs C Wallace BA (Hons) Administrative Officer

Mr S Anthony BEng (Hons) Data Manager

Mr N Constant Network Technician

Mr S O’Hara Network Technician

Mr I Bassett School Technician & Photographer

Bursarial Staff

Mr M Adamson MA Cantab, FCA

Bursar & Clerk to Governors

Ms P Keogh BSc (Hons)

Bursar’s Secretary

Mrs C Finch BA (Hons), FCCA Assistant Bursar

Mr M Scobie, BSc, ACCA Operations Director

Mr M Lawrie-Raison Operations Manager

Mrs A Ross MA Human Resources

Mrs L Moules

Bursary Assistant

Mrs C Conti

Bursary and Admissions Assistant

Mr R Joyce BA (Hons)

Alumni & Development Officer

Mrs P Willis Development Assistant

Mrs K Bateson School Nurse

Ms Sian Bodie-Lawrence School Nurse

Dr N Lawrence MBBS, BSc, MRCGP, DRCOG, DFSRH School Doctor

Mrs K Kashif BEd (Cantab), MACounsPsych, Reg BACP (Accred) School Counsellor

Mr N Kirby Leisure Centre

Mr L Almenoar BA Leisure Centre

Mr P Taylor Premises Manager

Mr A Hammett Deputy Premises Manager

Mr A Blackmore Maintenance Manager

Mr L Keswick Maintenance

Mr J Coombes Schoolkeeper

Mr G Dymond Schoolkeeper

Mr J Hammett Schoolkeeper

Mr R Hutton Schoolkeeper

Ms S Stone Schoolkeeper

Mr I Whitlock Schoolkeeper

Mr B Atkins Head Groundsman

Mr S Bullen Groundsman

Mr B King Groundsman

Mr J Newton Groundsman

Mrs E Baker Catering Manager

VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE

After two years of Covid disruption, teachers and pupils were delighted to resume their normal routines last September. Sport, music and drama began to thrive again whilst in the classroom pupils and teachers worked systematically to plug the gaps created by successive lockdowns.

Their success in so doing was quantified in August when 71% of all A level entries were graded A or A*. The headline figure for GCSE results was equally outstanding, with 76% of entries graded 9, 8 or 7. No fewer than 21 pupils achieved at least 3 A* grades at A level and six pupils in Year 11 produced a cumulative total of 67 grade 9s.

This outstanding success underscores the success with which the school responded to the challenge of the Covid years, maintaining academic momentum through online teaching and, even more importantly, continuing to provide pastoral support for pupils who were

isolated at home through two protracted periods of lockdown. If anything, the community of the school has emerged more strongly than ever from the challenge of the last two years and the profound truth of our school motto (ad astra per aspera) has rarely been more evident in times of peace.

But it was war which set the scene for one of the most important developments of the academic year. For in April we were amongst the very first schools to welcome pupils who had recently moved to the UK from Ukraine. At the time of writing, we have 14 Ukrainian pupils in the school, the majority of whom are living with families connected to Colfe’s. The unanimous support for this initiative from all sectors of the Colfe’s community has been inspiring, as has the resilience of the pupils themselves who are making remarkably good progress despite the inevitable challenges of learning in a foreign language. The impact on our existing pupils has been equally beneficial, promoting a deeper understanding of the significance of the war in Ukraine and, in some cases, providing an opportunity to learn a new language. Amongst the more senior members of the Old Colfeian community, it has also rekindled memories of

when they themselves were evacuated from the old school in Lewisham in the latter days of the Second World War, first to Tunbridge Wells and subsequently to Frome in Somerset.

At the time of writing, some much needed rain has prepared our pitches well for the rugby season and pupils of all ages are starting the new academic year in a spirit of optimism and aspiration. We have much to look forward to.

Richard Russell Headmaster

THE COLFE SERMON

There was such a sense of joy and excitement to welcome back so many staff and pupils of Colfe’s School into St Mary’s Church in Lewisham for the first in-person Colfe Sermon since 2019.

We had all done so well to adapt to online teaching and learning, live-streaming assemblies and virtual Colfe Sermons in 2020 and 2021. But it felt great to be back together in Revd Abraham Colfe’s own church in June 2022 to celebrate another step in the return to ‘normality’.

We welcomed pupils and their families from Year 7, the first time these pupils had been in St Mary’s church for any school service. The packed church joined enthusiastically in the hymns and prayers and we were all enthralled with such a personal and powerful Colfe Sermon from the Revd Richard Coles, former choirboy, Communards pop star and now Anglican priest and media personality. Fr Richard is Chaplain to the Leathersellers’ Company, coming from Northamptonshire, home of much of the traditional leather and shoe industry.

Fr Richard is a wonderful communicator –including in the medium of dance! Many of us know him from Saturday Live on the radio and many television appearances, including Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Masterchef. A sense of fun and warmth shines through in Fr Richard and he brought all this to the Sermon. Equally, we were aware that his own partner, Fr David Oldham had died in December 2019 and Fr Richard has shared so much of his own journey of loss with the wider public through his work since then. This has not simply been a private journey, but one that has touched – and helped – so many others.

Fr Richard had asked that we use in the service a reading from Psalm 33, which was read by the Master of the Leathersellers’ Company, Gavin Bacon:

Psalm 33

1. Sing joyfully to the Lord, you righteous; it is fitting for the upright to praise him.

2. Praise the Lord with the harp; make music to him on the ten-stringed lyre.

3. Sing to him a new song; play skilfully, and shout for joy.

4. For the word of the Lord is right and true; he is faithful in all he does.

5. The Lord loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of his unfailing love.

This reading reflects Fr Richard’s own childhood as a school chapel choirboy, where he discovered a love of music and the beauty of language. The line in the psalm he focused on was ‘Sing to the Lord a new song’, which he had to interpret for himself in his own life as he found his own voice, his own ‘song’. By his teenage years he had largely turned away from any faith in God and had also recognised that he was gay, with the challenges as well as the joys that can bring.

He linked discovering his own new song with another line from Psalm 137:

By the rivers of Babylon we sat and wept when we remembered Zion, for there our captors asked us for songs, our tormentors demanded songs of joy;

How can we sing the song of the Lord in an alien land?

The Headmaster read the second reading, from St Paul’s Letter to the Galatians, emphasising that as we are all God’s children, there is no longer to be any distinction between us, whether race, gender, faith or sexuality:

‘There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.’ (Galatians 3, vs 28)

Fr Richard was passionate in asking us all to be true to our own voice, our own song, to discover what that means for each one of us in our own lives. He moved on to describe his almost accidental journey into the pop world and the years of success with the Communards. He acknowledged both the fun and the excess of that lifestyle and also how it came crashing to an end in the late 1980s with the onset of AIDS and HIV. This brought not only fear and prejudice, but so much sadness and death in his own circle of friends and colleagues. Alongside this was a reaction from the wider public and many religious leaders, suggesting it was a judgement of God against homosexuality.

Surprisingly in this context, he found himself walking back into a church in London, to seek comfort and perhaps answers or understanding, and this was the beginning of the next stage of his spiritual journey, leading to ordination as an Anglican priest and working in parishes in London and elsewhere.

In all this and at each step and turn in his life, there is always a discovery of a ‘new song’, something unexpected to find and to celebrate. And then in 2019, his partner of many years, Fr David, died of health issues related to alcohol abuse. Fr Richard was throughout the Sermon both disarmingly honest and courageous in sharing such a personal mix of joy and sorrow, highs and lows. In this honesty he was

challenging us all to be similarly honest in our own lives – pupils, staff, parents and families. All of us present in church he encouraged to be open to life’s challenges and to discover our voice and our song, whatever that might be for each of us.

It was a truly inspiring Colfe Sermon and although Revd Abraham Colfe was a man and a priest of his own time and values, I believe he would affirm Fr Richard’s honesty and courage in facing life and truth as we find it today, to discover that God-given voice and song that lies within each of us.

The service itself was enhanced with wonderful music, from the well-known hymns which we all joined in together, to wonderful choir pieces. The Senior School Choir sang ‘A Ukrainian Prayer’, set by John Rutter, reminding us all of the violence and suffering in that country at this time. Later the Junior School Choir sang ‘A Blessing’, also by John Rutter, itself taken from the Book of Numbers in the Hebrew Bible:

The Lord bless you and keep you

The Lord make his face to shine upon you

To shine upon you and be gracious

And be gracious, unto you, and give you peace. Amen.

Perhaps the most rousing singing was in the final hymn ‘Guide me O thou great Redeemer, pilgrim through this barren land’: an insight into how the drought and heatwave was to affect us all this summer?

Our thanks as always go to staff and pupils at the school who worked so hard to bring this together, to our music director, organist and choir leaders, to those who helped prepare and tidy up the church, to our parents and guests from the Leathersellers’ Company and, above all, to the Revd Richard Coles for sharing such a powerful and personal Sermon, singing his own new song to the Lord. I’m sure Revd Abraham Colfe was proud of us all and as happy as we were to be together again in Colfe’s own church of St Mary’s Lewisham.

And on a personal note, my thanks to everyone for a very generous collection to put towards our continuing building repairs programme –nearly £1000 was achieved!

Fr Steve Hall,Vicar of St Mary the Virgin Parish Church, Lewisham

CHARITIES

With the school starting to feel a little bit more ‘back to normal’ post the pandemic, pupils and staff were more able to undertake fundraising activities involving multiple year groups and requiring less social distancing than in recent years. Thus, the pupils and staff at Colfe’s embarked on their charitable fundraising with their usual enthusiasm via a wide variety of events, with individuals, groups of friends and House teams contributing, to support a good range of causes.

Overall, we raised a grand total of £20,610.48 as well as donating many goods and items in addition as usual. As ever, I would like to thank everyone who ran an event or contributed in any way to this fantastic effort. Lastly, I would like to continue to express the school’s gratitude to The Leathersellers’ Company for their matched funding scheme, now in its seventh year of operation, which allows fundraising pupils to apply for matched funding for their charitable donations from an annual kitty. Pupils submit an online proposal form to The Leathersellers, detailing their plans and chosen charity, for consideration. This has now led to around £35,000 of donations to school fundraising initiatives in the lifetime of the scheme.

The charitable year has developed quite a rhythmic flow and the autumn term starts with ‘Jeans for Genes Day’, quickly followed by the ‘World’s Biggest Coffee Morning’ for MacMillan Cancer Support. On Jeans for Genes Day, pupils donated money to wear their own casual clothes to school and ended up raising £1414.47 to help children with life changing genetic disorders. After this, the Sixth Form students, guided by Mrs Biggs, once again organised a large and successful cake sale in aid of MacMillan Cancer Support – selling to all year groups of the school now restrictions were lifted. These cakes also proved very popular in the staff room! Overall, £418 was raised (which included a matched funding donation from The Leathersellers’ Company). Later in the term the Sixth Form also organised a successful raffle for The Connection Project at St Martin-InThe-Fields, a charity working with the homeless in London. A total of £180 was raised and again The Leathersellers’ Company matched this, so thank you to them and the Sixth Form fundraising team.

As the autumn term progressed, staff and pupils continued to fundraise for a variety of causes. Year 7 have now been given responsibility for the school’s fundraising for Children In Need and this, post-outdoor pursuits, hopefully helps galvanise them as a year group in addition to raising money for a good cause. Under the watchful and highly enthusiastic eye of Miss Lindley, Year 7 put on a number of sponsored events and food sales to raise £472.72, which was then match funded by The Leathersellers’ Company for a grand total of £945.44 donated. Miss Crummay and her helper pupils organised another highly successful annual poppy sale in aid of the Royal British Legion and raised £520.

Each academic year, the pupils in our four Senior School Houses continue to choose a charity (or charities) to support for the duration of the year and carry out their principal fundraising during their allotted House Charity Week. Lockdowns and social distancing restrictions had obviously curtailed these events of late, but with restrictions lifted the Houses could get back to a semblance of fundraising normality. This year was another fine example of how the student House leaders work with each other, younger House pupils, and House staff to ensure that as many people as possible contribute to the fundraising efforts. It was Bramley House’s turn to go first and Mr Fielden, Miss Wraw and the Bramley student House leaders organised a week of events ranging from football tournaments to bake sales and from car washes to basketball sessions. In addition, Mr Fielden braved an eye-watering leg-waxing session and a host of other sporting teachers allowed themselves to be pelted with wet sponges for the cause – thank you! Overall, a total of £1512 (including Leathersellers’ matched funding) was donated to UNICEF.

As Christmas approached, we made our annual appeal for food and essential items to give to projects helping those in need during the festive season. This year, we continued our support of the Helping Hands Food Bank, part of a project called Action for Refugees in Lewisham (AFRIL), run partly by the Church of the Good Shepherd with St Peter, Lee. We also continued our support of the Trussell Trust Lewisham Food Bank. Thanks to the continued generosity of pupils, parents and staff, around £500 of food and items were collected, split between these two charities and donated via a very full school minibus. We also held our annual Christmas Jumper mufti day in aid of Save The Children that raised £1300, with some fantastic jumpers on display, especially from staff.

Lastly, a group of Sixth Form students decided to raise money for Cancer Research UK after the mother of a friend was diagnosed with cancer. They decided to shave their heads and were sponsored to do so by many friends, family and other Colfeians. Thank you to that group of students (led by Dino, Year 12) and thank you to all who donated to their efforts, a fantastic total of £2755 was raised.

After Christmas it was Norton House’s turn to fundraise via their charity week and they chose to support the charity Centrepoint, which works particularly with younger homeless people. The highlight of the week was literally a highlight… of Mr Bateson’s beard which was dyed blonde once a certain donation threshold was reached. The other highlight of the week was a huge staff versus pupils football event which saw two matches playing simultaneously and pupils donating to play against one or other of the staff teams. The Year 12s put up a particularly entertaining display against a resolute staff side. Other events included a food sale, a wheel of fortune and a basketball shooting competition. The week was expertly coordinated by Miss Willats-Barrie, Mr Worley and the Norton student fundraising team and a total of £1185.66, which includes Leathersellers matched funding, was donated.

Also early in the Spring term, Sumayyah (Year 13) embarked on a sponsored walk for the Muslim Hands charity, raising £500, and Miss Howard from the History department powered through a sponsored run for the Centrepoint charity, raising £533. Later, towards Easter, Prendergast House put on their charity week for Cancer Research UK. In addition to the ever-popular Krispy Kreme donut sale, the pupils ran a large raffle and once again our gallant staff volunteered to be covered in foam during the ‘pie the teacher’ event. A good time was had by all and thank you again to those staff who volunteered. The week was led by Mr Potter, Miss Li-Sue and their student fundraising team.

Thank you again to Mrs Biggs and her staff and Sixth Form student fundraising team for putting on these events.

In the Summer term we held a large fundraising event in celebration of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. Pupils paid to partake in summer fete / country fayre activities with prizes available.

The 27 different events included archery, welly wanging, hoopla, target frisbee, beat the goalie, a slow bike race, play your card right and hook a duck. We also did a guess the teacher baby photo competition with many staff, including the Headmaster, contributing pictures. The weather was beautiful and a good time was had by all, raising a total of £2200, which was split between two local hospices – Demelza and Greenwich and Bexley Community Hospice.

Beardwood were the last House to undertake their dedicated charity week this year and they chose to support Greenwich Night Shelter. Overall, they raised £1445.28 (including Leathersellers’ matched funding). The highlight of the week was the Year 7 sponsored fancy dress fun run, which saw some fantastic outfits on display. Thank you to Miss Sutherland, Mrs Burton and the Beardwood student charity team for organising a highly successful week.

Other events that occurred during the Summer term were two book drives, one for the Acorn charity that provides books to those 3-11 year olds unable to access them easily, and one for Books For Africa which included novels as well as academic and reference texts. Thank you to all who contributed to these collections. The pupils from the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Committee ran a week of fundraising activities for the Hope and Play charity helping children in war-torn areas of the middle east. Activities included a lunchtime movie theatre, a sponsored triathlon, and a raffle. Overall, they raised £1279.32, a fantastic achievement. Lastly, the pupils from the Ecology Committee ran a fundraising lunchtime for the London Wildlife trust, donating £55.90.

With the ever-worsening situation in Ukraine, we decided to devote the remaining fundraising efforts of the Spring term to the Red Cross charity, one of those working on the front line in the war. A non-uniform day, which received a lot of extra generous donations from pupils, parents and staff raised £2346.30. In addition, the Sixth Form were galvanised into action and Millie (Year 13) organised a group of students to run another bake sale (the heart of the average Colfeian seems to be very near the stomach), which raised £232.10. This was generously matched by The Leathersellers’ Company. The Sixth Form pupils and staff also embarked on a sponsored exercise bike ride outside the new block and raised £230.48, which was again match funded by The Leathersellers’ Company.

These fundraising successes would not be possible without the tireless efforts of pupils, staff and parents at Colfe’s, and I would once again like to sincerely thank them all for their dedication to charitable giving this year. I would also like to thank The Leathersellers’ Company for their continued support of our charitable fundraising via the matched funding scheme. It has been another year of enthusiastic and innovative fundraising by so many and I look forward to more of the same come the Autumn term of 2022.

Chris Morris, Head of Charities

PAFA

Our year started with a flurry of activity – planning for our first uniform sale of the year, spreading the word about PAFA to new parents and thinking about our AGM in September. And maybe, just maybe, we would be given the green light for our PAFA Fireworks event?

PAFA attended the coffee mornings at the start of the year to talk to parents about what we do for the school and to encourage them to hopefully sign up to be a Class Rep or an adhoc volunteer. We are happy to report that we had many parents sign up to represent all year groups for the year ahead.

Back to the Fireworks: Yes! The school confirmed that we could start planning for our first event in 18 months!

As our Fireworks event happens in early October, we start preparing pretty much as soon as school starts in September. As well as the fireworks company, we engage with the Fire brigade, Colfe’s CCF (who kindly run the BBQ), Horn Park/Old Colfeians Rugby Club, school staff, parent helpers and our neighbours. In order to run the event we must advise local residents that it is happening, by way of a letter drop. Approximately 1,500 letters are delivered by our Class Rep volunteers throughout September. Thank you to our amazing Class Reps!

The Fireworks evening was a sell out and the feedback we received made all the hard work worth it. Thanks to all who helped or attended.

After the Fireworks we looked ahead to Christmas. PAFA and many parent helpers applied face paint to our smallest students for the EYFS nativity. Hopes were high that we could hold our annual Christmas Fair and exciting plans were well and truly in place for it, however, there were many outbreaks of Covid across all year groups, and the school confirmed that we couldn’t hold the fair in its usual form. We adapted our plans and arranged for a special Junior School appearance from Olaf the snowman, as well as gifts from Santa and an online panto performance. (Both of my children tested positive and enjoyed the panto at home, along with hot chocolate and popcorn!) We held our first ever online raffle and raised £650 for Lewisham Foodbank – thanks to all who bought tickets.

By the Spring we were more than ready to hold our KS2 disco! In 2020 the disco was the first event we cancelled just before the school closed and the country went into lockdown. Our 2022 disco was held on a Friday in late March, with

around 200 excitable children in attendance. Our DJ was brilliant and made sure the kids had a great time, but also made sure they were safe

on the dance floor. Glowsticks, pizza and sweets were the cherry on the top, and parent-helper ears were ringing for hours afterwards!

Our used uniform sales were held throughout the year. Much went on behind the scenes to pull these sales together, but we are grateful for the donations that became our stock, and for those who placed orders. Throughout the year we raised almost £6k via our uniform sales, and a further £300 at a “new starter” in-person sale at the very end of the school year.

You may have seen previous communications about “Easyfundraising”. This is where you can register and raise funds for PAFA as you shop at more than 4,000 websites – including shops, insurance and travel sites. This year almost £400 has been raised for PAFA via on-line shopping. For more information and to sign up please go to: https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/colfes

At the end of the year, we helped the school provide refreshments to parents at the KS2

sports day and pulled together a great group of volunteers to help with makeup/face paint at the Year 3/4 and Year 6 productions.

Throughout the year we received funding requests from many school departments (presented at PAFA termly meetings) and, along with Mr Russell and the meeting attendees, approved the following items to be purchased:

Large chess board for the Quad at the Senior school

Jigsaws for the Senior School Library

CCF camping cookers

KS1 playground equipment

Year 10 essay prizes

KS2 sewing machines

Library book-return box

Tank trap footings to support sets and backdrops for drama productions

Swimming flags

Water polo caps

CCF camping equipment

EYFS outdoor stage

Picnic tables

Languagenut – Digital language resource

Late school scooters

Please look out for school communications with details of future events.

For more information on PAFA please email pafa@colfes.com

Bonnie Foulkes PAFA Secretary

EMEKA

RECENT LEAVER EMEKA LOOKS BACK ON HIS TIME AT COLFE’S

but I quickly integrated myself into the Colfe’s family. The Y12 Adventure Day helped; rock climbing and building rafts were great activities and I made lots of new friends. I still have some water in my ear from getting drenched in the lake.

A levels in Biology, Maths and Drama were not what I was expecting. I underestimated how demanding they would be. After GCSEs in 10 subjects which were relatively straightforward for me, I thought three A levels would be a breeze, but was I mistaken. I had to stay organised, complete homework on time, revise for exams and juggle extracurricular activities, but I like a good challenge. Besides, as the Colfeian motto goes, “ad astra per aspera” –through hardships to the stars.

Drama has been a huge part of my time at Colfe’s, both as an A level subject and as an extracurricular activity. I will forever remember playing Eugene in our epic production of Grease! – the first live performance open to parents since lockdown. I’ll always love the song Shaking at the High School Hop, which is still stuck in my head.

My passion for performance led me to audition for the National Youth Theatre with a monologue of Aaron the Moor from Shakespeare’s Titus Andronicus. After months of nail biting and frantically checking emails, I got in! In August, I have the Senior Intake course in Northampton for two weeks - I heard it’s an experience of a lifetime, I can’t wait!

“It looked like the door was closing on me coming to Colfe’s. My entrance assessment to join the sixth form did not go as well as I had hoped. However, when I opened that envelope on results day at Conisborough College, my GCSEs were much better than expected. I called Colfe’s and they offered me a place at their prestigious school with an excellent reputation. I was fortunate to arrive in September 2020 with three friends from my secondary school,

I became a proud member of the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Group, where I had an interview with the Headteacher, Mr Russell, alongside other EDI members, about our experiences at Colfe’s. The Allyship workshop by Joanna Abeyie MBE was insightful as it looked at what makes an ally and allyship in the workplace. More recently, the group organised a range of fundraising events for the charity, Hope and Play. In Year 13, I have worked with Mrs Bean as the Careers Ambassador and have introduced the ‘Emexcellent Advice’ column for the Careers newsletter.

OCS FUND

After completing my A levels I was lucky enough to get a summer work experience placement in the Admissions & Communications department at Colfe’s. I feel fortunate to have gained skills and to have worked productively in my summer holiday.

Looking to the future, I hope to complete a Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology degree from the University of Manchester and attend drama school afterwards with aspirations of becoming a professional actor.

I know this summer will be one to remember.”

ABRAHAM COLFE’S VISION FOR HIS LOCAL SCHOOL IS ALIVE 370 YEARS ON AS THE OLD COLFEIAN SOCIETY COMMITS TO SUPPORT SCHOLARSHIP PUPILS

The vision of Abraham Colfe to provide a high-quality education for capable pupils within his parish, regardless of their means, remains as relevant today as it did in 1652 when his school in Lewisham was founded.

Colfe’s School in 2022 is a successful independent school that retains its local character and reaches out to local state school pupils who would benefit from a top-quality education. Its scholarship scheme, set up with considerable financial support from the Worshipful Company of Leathersellers, enables aspirational pupils of limited financial means to join Colfe’s Sixth Form and realise their full educational potential.

The Old Colfeian Society, which represents the school’s alumni, is committed to supporting this vision in whatever ways are practical. Founded in 2012 on a legacy of £50,000 from the late Dick Chambers, the Society has no subscription income. All former pupils and teaching staff of Colfe’s are members by definition and no membership fees are charged. Notwithstanding this, the Society’s Management Committee resolved to allocate one half of its legacy to providing financial support to Scholarship pupils who might otherwise have difficulty paying for activities beyond their direct education. To perpetuate its commitment, the Society has established a 300 Club to generate income to replenish its support fund. This formula allows the Society to provide grants of around £5,000 a year. Further support for the 300 Club would increase this level of grant.

So it is that in the last three years some 43 scholarship pupils have received financial support to attend theatre visits, professional preparation courses, Duke of Edinburgh Award programmes and a variety of other important activities.

The Committee would like to think that this is but one step in providing alumni support to the school. They will be looking for ideas and opportunities to play an enhanced role in the lives of those who attend Colfe’s School. Any thoughts or contributions to the debate would be welcome.

Martin Cartwright Chaiman

UKRAINIAN FAMILIES

ALUMNI AND CURRENT PARENTS STEP FORWARD TO SUPPORT UKRAINIAN REFUGEE PUPILS AT COLFE’S

As Colfe’s School opened its doors to welcome Ukrainian refugee pupils in Spring 2022, our alumni and parents made several generous gifts to support them.

These students’ fees have been covered by

the school, but without these donations, their families would have been significantly burdened with added expenses. In combining all of these donations, the school was able to fund these students’ ongoing needs - including

uniforms, lunches, school trips, digital devices and English language courses. And while the students were adjusting to learning in a British classroom, these gifts also enabled the students to fully experience life outside the classroom too – joining their classmates for a residential Outdoor Pursuits trip, school theatre productions, swimming galas and sports days. They also received incredible support from their tutors, the school counsellor, Ukrainian community volunteers and through their English language lessons.

These students were taken on a first-come, first-served basis, and the school was able to admit 13 pupils ages 6 to 16. They are evenly spread across the school from Reception up to Sixth Form – with all of them expected to return for the autumn term. While the school doesn’t anticipate taking more Ukrainian refugee students, it remains important for the school to support these pupils for as long as it takes.

If others are interested in supporting the programme into the 2022-23 year, please do get in touch with Kathryn McNeill, Director of Development & Alumni Relations, at kmcneill@colfes.com.

OLD COLFEIAN SOCIETY

300 CLUB

Under the management of Vernon Leese and David Ford this monthly draw has been running for 5 years. David manages the administration, which includes organising the draws, distributing prize money, and managing the bank account.

The entire surplus of around £5,000 per annum is available to the Headmaster to support those pupils from local state schools who receive bursaries and is used as funds to provide sportswear, music lessons and travel costs to

university interviews for example. Each request from the Headmaster is approved by the OCS Chairman, Martin Cartwright, on behalf of the committee. 12 monthly prizes of £75, £50 and £25 plus bonus prizes in May of £500, and £1000 in November, are paid out.

We are separately launching a marketing initiative as there are a number of tickets available at £5.00 per month, and we do hope for a good response so that we can continue

to provide, or maybe improve, our support to these young people.

Thanks are due to Russell Joyce, Pam Willis, and Nick James for their assistance in the administration of the 300 CLUB and, importantly, to all those generous Old Colfeians who already lend their support.

Brian Monk

The school hosted an after-school reception for them to have a chance to meet one another, their families and their sponsors properly for the first time.

OLD COLFEIAN SOCIETY

THE FOUNDATION OF COLFE’S SCHOOL WAS BASED ON A WILL.

Colfe’s School took its name from Reverend Abraham Colfe, Vicar of Lewisham, who founded the school in 1652. And in his will he entrusted the care of the school to the Leathersellers’ Livery Company, which governs the school to this day.

Dozens of our alumni have now stepped forward to support the school through a gift in their own wills, which is one of the most popular ways to support the school today. Many alumni choose to ensure their estate plans help support our Sixth Form Scholarship programme, which provides fully funded places for pupils with academic potential who qualify for free school meals.

Our scholars have consistently achieved at a high level, winning places at top UK universities and embarking on high powered careers in all the major professions. Over the last decade, more than 100 other students have joined the scholarship programme. Every year, between 10 and 12 scholars now join us, making up approximately 10% of the Sixth Form.

For a confidential conversation about supporting the school through your will, please contact Kathryn McNeill, Director of Development & Alumni Relations at kmcneill@colfes.com.

Enquiries for a spot in our prestigious Sixth Form programme is extremely high, a testament to the strong word-of-mouth advertising that is encouraging families to join our community like never before. But this demand is now outpacing what we can provide in need-based scholarship support for our academically bright students.

Some alumni enjoy the chance to meet other legacy pledgers through our Abraham Colfe Society.

OBITUARIES

BOWMAN, ANDY (1949-2022) AGED 72. CLASS OF 1968

Noel Newson, who was a good friend of Peter’s advised the school that Andy has passed away in a care-home suffering from dementia on the 21st February 2022. He had been in poor health following a stroke and heart problems.

BLUNDEN, ROGER JOHN (1950-2019) AGED 69. CLASS OF 1968

Following a short battle against a rare viral infection, Roger John Blunden passed away on the 22 June 2019. Roger was at Colfe’s from 1961 until 1968.

CHURCH, ALAN DAVID (1942-2020)

AGED 78. CLASS OF 1960

ALAN CHURCH Died peacefully at home, surrounded by family on September 4, 2020. Born 18th March 1942 to Albert and Ethel in Bath, England, he was big brother to Wendy and cousin to David and Richard. An alumnus of Colfe’s School and Brunel University, Alan travelled extensively in his youth and emigrated to Canada in 1969 with his lifelong friend Robin. Alan married Laraine in 1970 and had two sons Corbin and Cameron, living as a family man in Toronto for the remainder of his life. His entrepreneurial spirit was the key to his success in business and with his partner, John, he formed and grew a boutique environmental consultancy that was to be the mainstay of his career. In later life Alan turned investor and mentor, especially to his two sons who are forever grateful to all the guidance and support given. His true happiness came from his grandchildren: Julian, Heidi, Clara and Euan; and he loved his daughters-in-law, Maryse (Corbin) and Nicki (Cameron) as his own. He was never more content than when his entire family was together at the cottage. With his usual tenacity and sense of humour, Alan lived a full life despite his cancer, ending on his own terms 7 years later. The family would like to thank all the staff at PMH, with notable mention to Dr. Neil Fleshner, as well as the team at Spectrum who were so supportive at the end. A private service will be held Saturday, September 12, 2020. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the U of T Martin Barkin Chair in Urological Research via donate.utoronto.ca He will be missed.

COLLIS, MATTHEW A. (1986-2021) AGED 35. CLASS OF 2004

HARRISON, PAUL

(1965-2021), FORMER MEMBER OF STAFF (1989-1994 & 2002-2006)

It is many years since Paul and I worked together at Colfe’s, but I have happy memories of that experience. I remember agreeing to Paul doing his teaching practice at Colfe’s and then he and Colin Howard got on so well together that I was delighted when a vacancy occurred so that he could be appointed as a fully-fledged member of the music department. Paul moved on after giving many years of good service, not least on several choir tours, including some abroad.

I remember his enthusiasm for the tour which took in Durham and Newcastle Cathedrals, and the fish & chips on the outing to Whitley Bay, so near his beloved native Sunderland. I imagine David Richardson was delighted to have him back as Director of Music when Colin went to South Africa.

When he first came to Colfe’s Paul distinguished himself with his trumpet playing but during his time at the school he developed the full range of musical skills and took part in, and conducted, many outstanding musical events. I remember he was the first of the members of staff who lived for a time in what had previously been the Groundsman’s House at the Leathersellers Ground; though I imagine that could have been a testing experience.

I believe I wrote on his behalf when he applied for the Director of Music job at City of London School, and I am told he was much liked and admired there. I am pleased he remained close friends with many of the people with whom he worked at Colfe’s. Several of them have written to me about his later days. They tell me: he left Colfe’s in 2006 to become Director of Music at City of London School. Paul loved the challenge of that job, finding it an exciting but exhausting experience. He had spoken for some time about planning early retirement and this actually happened at the end of Easter Term 2020. As fate would have it, this was just about the worst possible time to retire, with all farewell celebration cancelled and the disappointment of “lockdown”. All his post-retirement plans and hopes were put on hold.

Paul was such a likeable chap, incredibly open and full of humour, and, not surprisingly, extremely popular with his pupils and colleagues. I am sorry he was not able to enjoy a long and musically productive retirement. We are all thinking of you at this time of sadness. Paul is missed!

Vivian Anthony

Headmaster Colfe’s School 1976-90.

HAWKINS, THOMAS (TOM) JAMES

(1937-2021) AGED 84. CLASS OF 1955

HAWKINS - Thomas (Tom) died suddenly on 31st December 2021, aged 84. Much loved husband of Sylvia and loving father to Shelly (d.1962), Sarah (d.2016) and Simeon. Retired Consultant Anaesthetist and Lt Col in the (RAMC) Territorial Army, former CO of 144 PFA and the BATLS team.

HEINECKE, PETER

(1936-2021) AGED 85. FORMER MEMBER OF STAFF (1981-2001)

Peter joined Colfe’s staff in September 1981 as the School’s first full-time librarian having spent several years as the librarian at Catford School. It was clear from the start that Peter was a true professional and passionate about his job. He encouraged heads of departments to update their book stocks and get their pupils to use this important facility. His lessons to Year 7 pupils on how to use the library kept them in good stead throughout their careers at Colfe’s and hopefully, beyond.

To run an efficient library Peter needed help and he knew that this should come from the pupils. Many applied to become one of his “prefects” especially those who found sport not to their forte or found traditional discipline and work expectations in an academic school rather difficult. Many found a haven in the library as David Fowler’s moving tribute on You Tube, testifies. Some were highflyers in all aspects of school life, for example, Ben Gray. I mention these two as I know they remained friends with Peter throughout his life and it meant so much to him. There were many others, and, on his behalf, I thank you all because you too were very important to him.

The biggest change in Colfe’s library came after the new sports hall was opened and I understand Dr Richardson asked, “what could you do with an empty gymnasium, Mr Heinecke?”. The answer to that question was to transform the empty hall into probably the finest school library in Southeast London. I also had a vested interest as a new Careers library was accommodated on the mezzanine floor. His lasting legacy must be the school archive which he built-up from scratch into something very impressive, including excellent collections on Colfe’s literary and artistic greats namely, Henry Williamson, Eric Ambler and Charles Folkard.

Peter was born in Orpington in 1936. His parents were Sudeten Germans; his mother lived in Tetschen and his father in Prague. They moved to England in the early 1930s when his father became chief accountant to Boehemia Glass, in London. They had an Art Deco house built in Orpington which Peter returned to after his father died and his mother needed care.

Peter passed the 11+ exam and went to Bromley Grammar School. He read History at the University of Hull and later took a diploma at Oxford. His family origins in the AustroHungarian Empire led him to undertake postgraduate research in Vienna. This gave him his lifelong love of Austrian culture and history, and a predilection for Wiener Schnitzel and Apfelstrudel! A treat I enjoyed with him having dropped him home after Colfe’s staff reunion lunches.

He was a primary school teacher in Orpington and later transferred his interests to librarianship. Peter Heinecke was strict with pupils but fair and kind. It is a testimony to him that some of his primary school pupils, as well as those at Colfe’s, kept in contact with him throughout his life.

When he retired, he began to research his family’s history in more depth. The fall of the Soviet Union and the unification of Germany gave him the opportunity to travel to eastern Germany and the Czech Republic. He found his grandparents’ graves and paid for the heavy vegetation to be removed and the headstones restored. He found many cousins and I know he treasured the festive the reunions he had with them.

Derek Shelbrooke

HILL, GEOFFREY ROBIN (1969-2021) AGED 52. CLASS OF 1987

Geoff Hill obituary Award-winning editor who made the call that ensured ITV News was the first station to tell the nation that Britain was leaving the EU In the early hours of June 24, 2016, in defiance of every poll and pundit, the UK appeared to be tearing up the constitutional arrangements of 43 years and marching out of the European Union. But was it?

Early results seemed to be pointing that way, but in TV studios and editorial offices they hesitated. Never a man to be held back by nerves, Geoff Hill, editor of ITV News, was on the studio floor and could see clearly what was happening. At 4.30am he made a final check with his election analyst and said: “Let’s call it.” ITV went on air with the first declaration that the nation had voted for Brexit. It was typical of the man and the newsroom he led. Hill had taken over the editor’s chair in 2013 with little idea of the political turmoil ahead - seven years in which an entire British political class would be overthrown. Two referendums, three general elections, the arrivals of Jeremy Corbyn and Donald Trump, and the departure of Britain from the UK. He drove coverage that won critical acclaim and multiple industry awards. Under his leadership News at Ten was named news programme of the year by the Royal Television Society and awarded a Bafta for best news coverage.

He was a journalist’s journalist, always happier in the newsroom than rubbing elbows and exchanging gossip in the watering holes of the establishment. It was entirely typical that he

was deep in an editorial meeting when he had to be pulled out to take a call from his doctor saying that a routine blood test had detected acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. Geoffrey Robin Hill was born in Croydon in 1969, the eldest of three children to Robin and Pauline Hill (née Lambe), a lawyer and nurse respectively.

He was educated at Colfe’s School in Greenwich, southeast London, and at the University of Kent, where he gained a degree in politics and economics. He got his start in journalism on his home patch at Southwark News, a nursery for several top journalists. Such was his affection for the place that years later, when the paper’s founder and editor Dave Clark died suddenly in 1998, Hill would finish his regular shift elsewhere and return to edit his old paper until a replacement was found. Yet television news, particuarly ITN, was always his aim, and the first step was being hired at the bottom rung of London News Network, at the time the local ITV News provider.

He rose rapidly before being snapped up as a news editor by GMTV, the predecessor of the breakfast show Good Morning Britain. It was not long before the main ITV newsroom brought him in as a junior news editor. Once hired, he was quickly promoted to foreign news editor and programme editor of News at Ten. What marked him out for the top was his ability to lead and inspire groups of very different, opinionated, sometimes difficult journalists, both in the field and in the newsroom. During the 2006 war in Lebanon, Hill was based in Beirut overseeing news teams in Beirut itself, in the southern city of Tyre and across the border in Israel. In the most difficult circumstances neither morale nor editorial standards slipped. A year later Hill was the obvious choice to lead ITN’s newest venture, a 24-hour sports news channel to run alongside the fledgling Setanta Sports, the first serious rival to Sky Sports News.

The budget was tiny, the team young and small, but the show stayed on the road right up until the collapse of Setanta two years later. Competing against a behemoth such as Sky with almost no money meant charming and befriending any sports personality who would agree to appear for nothing. The former footballers Kenny Sansom and Steve Claridge and the England rugby star Mike Catt were among those who obliged. This feat of keeping a channel on air on little more than huge gusts of boyish enthusiasm did not go unnoticed. CNN soon snapped up Hill as its director of coverage in London. US and British newsrooms have very contrasting styles and practices, leaving plenty of room for misunderstanding, even tension.

An incident in 2010 was typical of how he would handle it. Central London was the scene of violent protests against university tuition fees and Hill, typically, was not going to wait for others to cover it. Armed only with the camera on his iPhone, he approached the London Palladium and saw a car carrying the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall being pelted with eggs and paint, the police apparently nowhere. The pictures he shot were

an important exclusive, but before they could be broadcast a “standards board” back in Atlanta wanted to satisfy themselves of their veracity. “Do you have two sources confirming this incident?” they asked. “Yes,” replied Hill. “My right eye and my left eye.” And thus was a journalistic culture gap as wide as the Atlantic successfully bridged. As he climbed the professional ladder, Hill married Julia Dodd and became father to a daughter, Emily, who is now a student, but the pressures of life in news have never been kind to relationships. They separated after six years. In 2010 he married the ITN presenter and journalist Alex Hyndman and had a daughter, Olivia, and son, Alfie, but that relationship came to an end a few years later. To his great sadness Hyndman and the children moved back to Australia. It was his third marriage to fellow journalist Natalie (née Fay) that was, he said, the great happiness of his life.

When Richard Desmond, proprietor of the Daily Express, bought Channel 5 in 2010, its news contract was brought back from Sky News into the ITN fold. For Hill this was a big step up to the editorship of a national news service, and a chance to return “home”. The budget, again, was tiny. The workforce, many transferred reluctantly from Sky, needed to be reintegrated into ITN, but the project was made to work, in no small part because of the personal relationship Hill built with Desmond. By his own admission, Desmond knew nothing about broadcasting and could not understand why his journalists on 5 News could not behave exactly like the ones on the Daily Express. Patiently walking Desmond through Ofcom and the impartiality rules that govern public service broadcasting in the UK, Hill had soon won from him a bigger budget and was producing a programme to challenge the longestablished Channel 4 News in terms of nightly viewing figures.

Those who had watched this rise to the top were not surprised he soon took one more step up, taking over at ITV News. He described holding the editor’s chair in the ITV newsroom as “the greatest honour of my career”, but there was to be no honeymoon. His arrival coincided with a significant budget cut and the need for redundancies. The formats of both News at Ten and ITV Evening News were to change, both dropping one of their two presenters. ITV’s digital presence needed a radical rethink and redesign, and the gender pay gap and lack of diversity on screen urgently needed to be addressed.

Never afraid of change, Hill met the challenges head on, on the way recruiting Robert Peston as political editor (overcoming fierce competition from Newsnight) and Allegra Stratton as national editor; she would later become press secretary to the prime minister Boris Johnson. In 2015, after Hill had been in charge for two years, journalists in his newsroom won an unprecedented clean sweep at the Royal Television Society awards, including home news, foreign news, presenter of the year and news programme of the year. There followed a period in which ITV could rarely have asked its news

operation for more newsflashes and special programmes: Trump’s election triumph in the US, the referendum on EU membership, two post-Brexit general elections, the UK’s departure from the EU, the Westminster and Manchester terrorist attacks, and the Grenfell Tower fire. Eventually, the only thing able to slow Hill down was his own body. It was a painful irony that in September 2017 he spent a Saturday afternoon as a guest in the boardroom of his beloved Crystal Palace FC, chatting to the club’s former captain Geoff Thomas.

After retiring as a player Thomas had received a diagnosis and then recovered from leukaemia. Within 48 hours of the meeting, Hill had been diagnosed with an even more aggressive strain of the disease. Before his diagnosis, he had rekindled his relationship with Natalie Fay, a senior journalist in the ITV newsroom. With her constant support, it seemed that a stem cell transplant had succeeded in driving out the cancer, allowing Hill to return to work at the newsroom. The respite was brief; within weeks he had suffered a relapse and been forced with great reluctance to relinquish his editorship. He and Fay married in December 2020. As he went back into chemotherapy he became a trustee of Cure Leukaemia, and never stopped working to raise money to find a cure. Geoff Hill, ITV editor, was born on June 19, 1969. He died of leukaemia on September 16, 2021, aged 52.

KING, JOHN WILLIAM (1952-2021) AGED 69. CLASS OF 1970

On leaving Colfes, John went to Hull University where he studied Italian and French.

After graduating he went to work in IT, initially as a Systems Analyst and then as an IT Business Consultant. Without question, John most enjoyed the opportunities this gave him to meet a wide range of people. Many of whom became long term friends.

Outside of work, John’s main interests remained music, books, languages, sport, wildlife and travel. He and his wife travelled regularly to Italy and Greece.

John went on to study modern Greek and basic Spanish at evening classes. His studies at Colfes in French and Russian stood him in good stead for this.

John married his wife Val in 1974 and until 2019 they lived in the borough of Bexley. He loved to walk in Lesnes woods, and their woodland garden was his pride and joy. Living adjacent to ancient woodland gave John the opportunity to develop his interest in birds and wildlife generally. More recently, John and Val moved to live in Mote Park, near Bearsted in Kent. John had many happy and humorous memories of his school life at Colfes. He stayed in regular contact with school friends and their friendship was a boost in more recent years.

John lost his 10-year battle with declining health, aged 69, in September 2021.

John’s wife and family were delighted to see Old Colfeians Graham Cassey, Geoff Mitchell, Alan Pentecost, Malcolm Ward and, of course, his brother-in-law, Dave Rudd, at his Celebration of Life at Mote House in October 2021.

LORD, ANTHONY (TONY) CHARLES (1925-2021) AGED 96. CLASS OF 1944

Tony was born in Charlton on 1st October 1925. He attended Royal Hill Infant and Junior School from 1930 and recounted many of his schoolboy adventures and exploits in his selfillustrated book “Lord of the Manor”, which was first published in 1993. In 1937, at age 11, he was accepted at Colfe’s Grammar School, his education punctuated by 3 years’ evacuation to Tunbridge Wells during the Second World War.

After leaving Colfe’s he briefly spent time at Regent Street Polytechnic Architectural School, whilst serving in the Home Guard on the rocket site at Blackheath. He was called up in 1943 and served three years in the

Royal Navy, mostly in the Far East, on hospital ships. He was awarded the Pacific Star, the 1939-45 Star and the Defence Medal for his wartime service.

In 1946 he trained as a schoolmaster at Goldsmith’s College and taught in local schools for over 20 years before becoming Headmaster of the Remedial Department at Woolwich Polytechnic School. He also undertook chauffeur duties to the wealthy local families and ferried children to school in his Bedford minibus. “Tony’s Minibus” was a familiar sight along the roads of Blackheath, Charlton and Woolwich.

During this time, he met and married Christine, a nurse at St Nicholas’ Hospital, Plumstead, with whom he had four sons.

In 1979 Tony decided a change in career was in order and he ended up spending over 20 years as a columnist for The Mercury and The South London Press, publishing his book and selling countless paintings and drawings of his favourite subject matter, his local areas. He was proud of his achievements as both an artist and a columnist.

In 1998 Tony met his third wife, Jackie. They spent over 23 happy years together, caring for each other, always laughing and joking and enjoying their life together despite the obstacles life threw at them.

JEREMY LYDON

FORMER MEMBER OF SCHOOL STAFF (1975-1989)

Jerry was a unique character, a true gentleman and humourist, from a bygone age. He was Head of Chemistry in the 1970s and 80s, but he set little store on positions and titles, being much more concerned with people. He was immensely cultured and always good humoured. Yet Jerry openly disdained the selfish careerist and “scrimshanker” who infest our profession.

Like the poet Horace, however, he always told the truth with a smile. His wit often enlivened the tedium of staff meetings or training days. He once memorably described the then recently imposed middle school curriculum as the educational equivalent of a Procrustean bed.

Before his time at Colfe’s, Jerry taught at Dartington Hall, that in/famous progressive school, then at the Strand Grammar School (Brixton Hill), next Walter Saint John (Battersea) and finally Eltham College. By pure coincidence, apart from the last named, these establishments are now defunct. Jerry left Colfe’s in1990 following a minor contractual dispute for which he was most generously compensated. He then held temporary teaching posts, following, in his words, death, pregnancy and nervous breakdown around Trinity Group and other local schools.

In the holidays Jerry visited the great renaissance sites of Italy; Florence and Venice, and loved the hilltop towns of Tuscany. Yet he constantly returned to the little lost churches of the Romney Marsh and the Dorset of Thomas Hardy. Of Irish heritage, Jerry never tired of the Aran Islands, the Cliffs of Moher, and other such delights. He also found time for extensive reading with a truly catholic taste from Byron to Joyce.

So, a fascinating personality, Jerry’s funeral was attended by family, friends, ex colleagues and former pupils. His sense of fun was recalled by many there, who spoke of his joy in finding an ice well under his garage in Lymington, which he styled the “oubliette”. Down this he would take a friend. There seated on crates, one would partake of naval strength Plymouth gin and listen to Gregorian chants by flickering candlelight, hoping to be able at some point to ascend the ladder.

So, now all to be said is, “hail and farewell”.

OWEN-SMITH, TERENCE (1932-2019) AGED 87. CLASS OF 1951

Terence Owen-Smith (Terry) was born on 29 June 1932 in East Dulwich to Francis and Winifred. His brother, Michael, followed two years later.

In September 1939, following the outbreak of the Second World War, he and Michael were evacuated, first to the South coast and then onto Wales. This experience was never discussed until his much later years.

Terry always loved sports at school and into his later years, enjoying rugby, cricket, hockey, squash. This followed him into his National Service years, where he taught new entrants. Following this, he worked for Esso Petroleum in London. It was whilst working here he was offered the opportunity to work for the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (now DEFRA). This moment was pivotal for Terry’s life and saw him move to Northumberland in 1956.

He only gave Northumberland a few months,

but then he saw the lady who would become his wife of 47 years and Northumberland was his home.

He married Anne McDermott on 11 April 1970 (as that was a free Saturday between rugby and cricket seasons) in Alnwick, Northumberland.

Son Stephen arrived in April 1972, followed by Sarah in 1974 and lastly followed by Clare in 1978.

Terry was fondly known at Alnwick Rugby Club as ‘TOS’ where he was a long-standing servant of the Club, including running as touch judge for 1407 matches for the first XV. He combined this with serving as a member of RFU North Competitions Committee.

In 2015, Terry and Anne renewed their wedding vows after 45 years with all their children present. Unfortunately, Anne passed away before him in 2017. Terry as ever, was still determined to give to others and in 2018, aged 86, he undertook a zip wire across the River Tyne to raise money for the local hospice in Northumberland.

Terry passed away following a short bout of ill-health with all his children with him.

A true gent, whose honesty, integrity and compassion were abundant and who is sadly missed.

PEAKE, DR. SCOTT

(1978-2019) AGED 53. CLASS OF 84

Scott died suddenly on 10 September 2019, at the school he had been working at for some years, St Michael’s Catholic Grammar School in Finchley, North London. After leaving Colfe’s, Scott obtained a BA at Bedford College, University of London before advancing to St Andrews in Fife for his PhD in classics. Scott’s career took some odd turns but was largely academic in the fields of classics and classical history – starting at Dollar Academy in Stirling, then Bedales in Hampshire before moving to Gravesend Grammar School for Girls (now Mayfield GS) and finally St Michael’s. The respect and affection his pupils and schools afforded him after his death remains a testament to his abilities and knowledge as a teacher and a comfort to his remaining family.

PYKETT, JULIAN GILES

(1943-2022) AGED 78. FORMER MEMBER OF STAFF

Julian was born in Hinckley, Leicestershire on 26 June 1943. In 1958 the family moved to

Dartmouth and Julian became a pupil at Torquay Grammar School. In 1962 he read Geography and History at the University of Exeter and in 1965 took a PGCE at King’s College, London. He joined the staff of Colfe’s in September 1966 as an assistant teacher in the Geography Department. Having settled in the local area he met Judy, the daughter of an Old Colfeian, Jack Fenton. They married in August

1972. In September 1973, Julian became Head of Geography and, with other changes in the department, another post became available which I was delighted to obtain. Julian and I became good friends and one can imagine my surprise, when, in September 1974 he announced he was leaving Colfe’s to takeup a post in educational administration in Hertfordshire. He and Judy moved to Chesham Bois, Buckinghamshire where their first son, Alexander, was born. The draw of the West Country was always on his mind and in 1978 he won a post at Cornwall County Council in Truro. The family moved to Truro where Julian and Judy’s second son, Nicholas, was born. Julian’s career developed well, and he worked 19 years for CCC.

Julian was a devout Christian and when, in 1997, the post of Director of Education for the Diocese of Truro became vacant he applied and, to his delight, was appointed; thus becoming the first not to be a member of the clergy. This became the pinnacle of his career, and he held the post with professional pride and enjoyment until he retired in 2007 when the Bishop of Truro made him an Honorary Cannon of the Cathedral.

After an accident in November 2010, Julian was diagnosed with terminal myeloma; a great shock to his wife, family and friends. He never lost his zest for life and through the NHS, modern medicine and the care of his devoted wife he lived until 2 March 2022. His funeral was held at Truro Cathedral on the 28 March, led by the Rt.Rev. Graham James, former Bishop of Norwich and Bishop of St. Germans.

Julian was a fine man, teacher and friend and his lasting legacy lives on through his sons and grandchildren.

Derek Shelbrooke

RHIND, IAIN JAMES (1963-2020) AGED 57. CLASS OF 1981

Iain was born and raised in Blackheath and started at Colfe’s in Form 3C in 1974. Iain enjoyed both the academic and sporting side of Colfe’s; he was a strong cross-country runner and in later life successfully completed the London marathon. He was also an enthusiastic amateur cricketer, squash player and skier. Iain graduated from Swansea University in Geography and later completed an MPhil in Planning at Reading. This led to a long and extremely productive career as a town planner with Lichfields, a planning and development consultancy, where he rose to the level of Senior Director.

He worked on many varied and high-profile projects at Lichfields, from the London Eye and the new Wembley Stadium to the expansion of the Alton Towers Resort, and was instrumental in the successful construction of the Grange Park Opera House at West Horsley Place. He combined his planning and urban design skills with a keen interest in photography, and was

also immensely practical. At home Iain could build or re-build almost anything; a prime example was when he dismissed the builder responsible for his loft extension as he did not feel the work was being done properly, and then completed the job himself.

Iain was diagnosed with a brain tumour at the age of 55 and beat the normal prognosis, greatly helped by his high level of fitness. He remained positive throughout this time, refusing to feel sorry for himself, and enjoying the company of his many friends and colleagues. He was a loving husband and father and is greatly missed by his wife Mary and his daughters, Heather and Olivia. A celebration and tribute to him was held at Grange Park Opera House in October 2021.

M. Bowman and G. Butcher

ROGANS, DAVID (1929-2019) AGED 90. CLASS OF 1947

ARCHIVE

I have continued to try to bring some order to the archive collection

over this academic year, including cataloguing our collection of antiquarian books, many on the topography of Kent, which were donated to the school by Dick Chambers (OC 1947) shortly before his death.

Although it is always sad to hear of the death of a former pupil, I am extremely grateful to those whose families pass on the items they have treasured since they left school: copies of The Colfeian, medals, sports day prizes and drama programmes are all accepted into the archive collection (although we are limited in space).

We also hold a set of the books of Henry Williamson, Eric Ambler and a large collection of antiquarian and other books bequeathed by 1905 school captain Reginald Northey Curnow (OC 1899-1905). This year we have received items from the sister of Lawrence Lee (OC 1970-1978), who had died in 2002 in a car accident. His sister was now sorting out their mother’s effects and came across items including blazer badges and play programmes which I was happy to accept.

Lawrence is 2nd from the left in The Gypsy Baron 1973.

Derek Wyles (OC 1937-1942) died in 2022 and left a financial bequest and a number of items to the school. Derek had also, in 1987, been one of the contributors to the appeal for money to purchase some of the illustrations of Charles

CAREERS

STARTING AT THE END

One of the reasons working in Careers at Colfe’s is so enjoyable is the immense range of destinations that our students choose at the end of their senior school life. It is a huge privilege to play a small part in helping each and every student make the best choice they can at the age of just 17 or 18.

With the increasing cost of going to university, all students now consider whether the student loan debt is going to be a worthwhile investment in the longer-term. Not surprising then, is the increased interest amongst our

Folkard (OC 1892) for the school. These still hang proudly in the library. The Archive now has a large collection of prints and books illustrated by Folkard thanks to the generosity of Anthony Morley (OC 1961-67) who donated his collection in 2016.

Three of the Folkard drawings bought by subscription in 1987.

Anthony Morley also donated to the school a programme of a dinner held at the Leathersellers’ Hall in 1909, which has been signed by the guest of honour, Ernest Shackleton, and other members of the British Antarctic Expedition in 1907.

I would like to end by paying my respects to Peter Heinecke, the librarian before me, who retired in 2001 and spent much of his time building the school archive, and who sadly passed away in November 2021. Without his hard work and love for the school, much of the Archive would not exist today.

Judy Cardnell Archivist

students in degree and other apprenticeships, traineeships and work. Unfortunately, there are still not enough of these at a higher level and competition is at least as fierce as applying to a competitive university.

The majority of Colfe’s students, however, still opt for the university route and this year we were absolutely delighted that most of our students gained places at their chosen universities. The list on Valete gives a full break down of destinations, but here is just a small flavour of the variety (in alphabetical order):

Aeronautics and Astronautics/ Spacecraft Engineering,

Art Foundation courses

Business Management Chemistry

Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology

Culture, Media and Creative Industries

Fashion, Public Relations and Marketing

Film and Television Production

Game Design

Geography and Economics

History and Politics

Liberal Arts

Linguistics and Japanese Mathematics and Philosophy Medicine

Natural Sciences

Robotic Engineering

Sports Journalism

EVERY YEAR EXPLORES CAREERS

There are so many options available to students when they leave Colfe’s and to help navigate between the myriad of choices, we have an all-years careers programme starting in year 7 and ending in Year 13.

In Year 7, we look at careers of interest to a younger audience, including Climate Change careers, Rewilding and Robotics.

In Year 11 we cover practical issues including CVs, work experience and choosing A levels that relate to possible university subjects. All year 11s are encouraged to make ad hoc careers appointments if they want to discuss anything relating to their future choices.

Year 12 marks the start of more in-depth work into researching life after Colfe’s. We are very fortunate to have several software packages to support Sixth Form students including Unifrog, Springpod and Morrisby. However, you cannot beat one-to-one careers advice and guidance sessions and we are again lucky to have a team of external advisers, supporting the Head of Careers interviewing every Year 12 student to help with their plans.

We are also able to offer each of our medical school applicants a specific programme of support, which this year included paid work experience on the Covid vaccination programme through our Colfe’s network. We were also delighted with the results of working with an external organisation for our UCAT training and plan to extend this next year to include BMAT training. Additionally, our Oxbridge candidates benefit from the Competitive courses programme, which was run until this summer by Ms LeHur.

Throughout the year, we work closely with the Sixth Form team to provide relevant careers’ and higher education speakers at the weekly Forum session. This year, speakers included the University of East Anglia, Project Trust covered Gap Year volunteering, Colfe’s teachers Mel Way and Rebecca Lindsay talked about their fascinating earlier careers, Old Colfeian students came back from Cardiff, Durham and Edinburgh Universities to share their experiences, Katherine Brunsdon, who works for Meta, came in a personal capacity to talk about using LinkedIn for your career and Fiscorum Director, Jo Baldwin, talked about managing finances.

In Year 8, we start to explore careers that could suit different personality types and research growth areas and which jobs could be at risk of automation.

In Year 9 we introduce Morrisby (aspirations) for the first time, and this is where students complete a very short online questionnaire which matches their interests with potential careers. The purpose of introducing this in Year 9 is to help with option choices later in the school year.

In Year 10 Every student takes part in the full Morrisby profiling sessions, which link aptitudes and interests with a far more detailed list of careers and includes A level suggestions and degree options at 18. This is followed up by a one-to-one careers interview with an independent careers adviser.

By the time students reach Year 13, we really do provide bespoke support for each individual, whether that is university, an art foundation, an apprenticeship or straight into work. The early part of Year 13 is driven by the UCAS deadlines, finishing personal statements and choosing the best five university options. Year 13 ends on results day, when we are always on hand to celebrate results achieved and university places finalised.

This year, for the first time, we had a special UCAS and university life day, which included cooking skills, a presentation on student finance and another on relationships and sexual health.

Cooking skills for life after Colfe’s

Jo Baldwin, Fiscorum talking to year 12s about finance

In year 7 we talk about future jobs, including careers in rewilding, robotics and climate change (Photo by Zdeněk Macháček on Unsplash)

FRIDAY LUNCHTIME CAREERS TALKS

Our programme of careers talks was able to take place in person this year, but after learning from the online Covid experience, we have also introduced online speakers. One such speaker was Old Colfeian, Alex Wicks, Global Head of Partnership at Real Madrid FC, who talked about his career in the football industry.

Other informal talks this year included Aeronautical engineering and apprenticeships and are usually open to all year groups.

THE 2021/22 CAREERS’ AMBASSADOR

Following the successful introduction of this new role last year, Emeka was appointed Careers’ Ambassador for 2021/22. Emeka made the role his from the beginning, introducing ‘Emexcellent Advice’ in the newsletter and producing information on careers and university courses relating to school subjects for the benefit of other students. We wish Emeka every success at Manchester University.

There were numerous other examples of professionals going out of their way to give our students an invaluable insight into their industries and help them acquire new skills and expertise along the way and we are extremely grateful.

In total, we logged over 170 different experiences acquired by students who returned the work experience questionnaire. These included not only direct work experience but also industry-specific courses that students signed up to on our new Springpod work experience platform.

WORK EXPERIENCE

Dr Jerry Lea is responsible for the Year 12 work experience programme at Colfe’s. We rely heavily on the generosity of our alumni network and current parents, who offer placements to pupils and once again they came up trumps. We had placements offered in a wide variety of industries including Accounting, Technology, Tax, Law, HR, Business Finance, Real Estate Development, Art/Graphics, Environmental work, Marketing, Banking and Architecture.

One parent is a Crown Court Judge and Barrister at a busy London chamber but she, nevertheless, found time to accommodate three of our pupils who were interested in pursuing a law degree. She arranged for them to shadow a lawyer, sit in on a live case and even gave them case review material to digest.

In another example, students were shown how a leading Branding agency developed and defined brands across finance and technology. The work experience involved students doing internet research, creative writing, creating mood boards and giving PPT presentations.

Work experience provided for year 12s this year included generous support from a Crown Court Judge.

WORK EXPERIENCE STUDENT IN THE COLFE’S CAREERS’ DEPARTMENT

Trying to practise what you preach is sometimes challenging, so we were really pleased this year to be able to demonstrate our commitment to work experience, by taking on a student in the Careers’ Department. Linda Gibbens joined us once a week from November through to July. Linda is already part of the Colfe’s community as a parent to two Old Colfeians and is studying for her Qualification in Career Development at Canterbury Christchurch university. This is what she said about her work experience at Colfe’s: ‘I had such a wonderful time in the Careers Department at Colfe’s, where I was mentored and shown the practical skills and knowledge I needed to complement the career development theory learning from university’.

2023 Careers Fair – looking for professional volunteers

In March 2023 we will be having our first in-person careers fair for several years. If you would like to be part of that event, inspiring the next generation of Colfeians, I would warmly welcome your involvement. My email address is dbean@colfes.com

Debbie Bean Head of Careers

Emeka, 2021/22 Careers’ Ambassador

Linda Gibbens, work experience student in the Careers department

Old Colfeian, Alex Wicks, Global Head of Partnership at Real Madrid FC

VALETE

SCHOOL LEAVER DESTINATIONS 2022

Apprenticeship

Apprenticeship

Art foundation courses

Price, Forbes and Partners (insurance broking)

Art Foundation Ravensbourne

Art Foundation Ravensbourne

Art Foundation Ravensbourne

Art Foundation Ravensbourne

Art Foundation

Art Foundation

Art Foundation

University

Ravensbourne(with deferred Mechanical Engineering degree, Sheffield 2023)

Camberwell (with deferred Graphic and Communication degree, Leeds 2023)

The Goldsmiths Centre (with deferred Business Management Degree, Birmingham 2023)

Bournemouth University Business Management (2023) Bristol, University of the West of England Business and Law Bristol, University of the West of England Business Management and Marketing Cardiff University Optometry Cardiff University Media and Communications Cardiff University Politics Durham University Philosophy and Politics

King’s College London, University of London Culture, Media & Creative Industries King’s College London, University of London Philosophy King’s College London, University of London Computer Science King’s College London, University of London Computer Science King’s College London, University of London Liberal Arts King’s College London, University of London Nursing with Registration as a Children’s Nurse King’s College London, University of London Biochemistry

Lancaster University Business Economics (Industry) Lancaster University Geography and Economics Lancaster University Geography and Economics Lancaster University Business Management Lancaster University Economics, Politics and International Relations

Lancaster University Medicine and Surgery London South Bank University Accounting and Finance Loughborough University History (2023) Newcastle University Combined Honours Newcastle University Film and Media Ravensbourne University London Animation

Swansea University Business Law

The University of Edinburgh History

UCL (University College London) English University of Bath Economics University of Bath Mathematics and Physics University of Bath Mathematical Sciences (with Industrial Placement)

University of Bath Pharmacy University of Bath Electrical and Electronic Engineering (Sandwich) University of Bath Economics

University of Bath Chemical Engineering with Environmental Engineering (with placement)

University of Birmingham Nuclear Science and Materials University of Birmingham Business Management University of Brighton Accounting and Finance University of Bristol Geography

University of Exeter Communications with Employment Experience

University of Exeter Politics, Philosophy and Economics with Study Abroad

University of Kent Computer Science (cybersecurity)with a year in industry

University of Leeds Film, Photography and Media University of Leeds Economics and Geography

University of Leeds Gateway Year to Medicine University of Leeds Graphic and Communication Design (2023)

University of Leeds Economics and History

University of Lincoln International Business Management University of Lincoln Sports Journalism University of Liverpool Mechanical Engineering (4 years) University of Liverpool Game Design University of Liverpool Criminology University of Liverpool Communication and Media University of Liverpool Anatomy and Human Biology University of Liverpool Mechanical Engineering (4 years) University of Manchester Politics and International Relations University of Manchester Linguistics and Japanese University of Manchester Mathematics and Philosophy University of Manchester Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology University of Manchester International Business, Finance and Economics

University of Manchester Economics and Politics University of Manchester Liberal Arts University of Manchester Mathematics University of Nottingham Natural Sciences University of Oxford Chemistry

University of Sheffield Mechanical Engineering University of Southampton Economics (2023) University of Southampton Aeronautics and Astronautics / Spacecraft Engineering

University of Surrey Economics

University of Surrey Aerospace Engineering (2023) University of Surrey Business Management

University of Sussex Physics and Astronomy (with a foundation year)

University of Sussex Psychology

University of the Arts London Fashion Public Relations and Communication

University of Warwick Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE)

University of Warwick History and Politics University of Warwick Modern Languages and Economics University of Westminster, London Computer Science (2023) University of York Robotic Engineering

University of York Film and Television Production Gap Year

Fourteen students are taking gap years and either have deferred university places or are applying to university in 2023. Exciting plans include working at the Globe Theatre and working during the skiseason, teaching and travelling.

Leavers from 2021 who applied to university following Gap Years and Work Experience

Imperial College London Medicine

Imperial College London Biological Sciences

University of Bath Mathematical Sciences (with Industrial Placement)

HOUSE SYSTEM

With the majority of restrictions relating to the Coronavirus pandemic behind us (except mask wearing), it was possible to pretty much return to normal this year as far as the House competition was concerned. This meant that all competitions, including those involving multiple year groups interacting, could be held and the pupils took up the challenge on behalf of their respective Houses with their customary enthusiasm.

I am, as ever, very thankful to the Heads of House, Assistant Heads of House, House Captains and other student House leaders for all their efforts in organising their teams, as well as to the staff who ran the events and the pupils who participated in them. Thank you to you all. In in end, it would turn out to be one of our closest House competitions yet.

The House competition always starts with the headline event that is House Cross Country –two laps around the school site on both tarmac and grass (a bit like rally cross for those who remember that on the TV) for Years 7, 8 and 9 with bonus points for House staff runners. As it is a team competition, all participants earn House points and the top twenty placement finishers from each House contribute towards the overall result of the event. This year, it was Prendergast House who were victorious by quite a large margin.

Early in the Autumn Term we were pleased to be (almost) back to normal for House

Drama, which is a real highlight of the House Competitions calendar. Unfortunately, the one restriction remaining (aside from the aforementioned masks) didn’t allow for an external audience to watch the performances, but the competition itself, involving the Sixth Form students casting and directing the Year 7s, 8s and 9s in short plays or musicals, was back to its best. Beardwood House staged a dark and brooding version of Sweeney Todd using excellent lighting and makeup to create the appropriate mood. Bramley House put on a light-hearted performance of Peter Pan with some memorable performances such as the flamboyant Captain Hook. Norton House gave us an entertaining rendition of The Wizard of Oz with some excellent music and singing involved. Lastly, Prendergast presented a whimsical take on Harry Potter with a particularly memorable Voldemort battle and death scene. The quality on show was superb and each House did itself proud with all pupils contributing excellently to a very entertaining evening. In the end it was Prendergast’s Harry Potter that won the day, so congratulations to their directors, cast and crew.

Prendergast were also triumphant on the sports field during the Autumn term, winning the Year 7 Girls’ football tournament. Apart from that, they made a habit of coming second in most of the other Autumn competitions, but such consistency can be valuable and so it proved to be. Other sporting House competitions that were held included rugby for the Year 7s (won by Bramley), Year 8s (won by Norton) and Year 9 (won by Beardwood). When it came to hockey, there was only one House that stood tall and that was Bramley, who managed to

scoop up the laurels in all three of the Year 7, 8 and 9 competitions, so well done to them.

Moving into the classroom, Beardwood were the clear top dogs in modern foreign languages picking up the wins in both the Year 7-9 competition and the senior competition. The Y7-9 competition saw some excellent poetry in different languages and the senior competition took the form of a concert in different languages with some superb performances on display. Beardwood also demonstrated their varied academic prowess by powering to victory in both House Maths and House History. Lastly, Beardwood showed their practical skills in an impressive House Design Technology triumph. Such results would surely see them somewhere near the top of the leader board at Christmas. Bramley managed to secure the win in Junior House Chess, a knock-out competition run across a whole week, so thank you to the Maths department for running this. Finally, Norton manage to emerge victorious in the Year 12 netball competition and in House Geography. Totting up the scores as Christmas approached, it was Prendergast that had taken the early lead in the competition with Beardwood in second place only 64 points behind them. There were, however, plenty of points to be played for in the new year.

After the pandemic forced us to go online for House Music in recent years, this year the competition was back and better than ever. The solo performances were very strong and wideranging, from an amusing music hall number by Katie (Year 11) to an ethereal oboe piece by Leonie (Year 12), from a highly technical piano piece by Ludwig (Year 10) to a musical

classic vocal performance by Orlando (Year 13). Following these, the Houses performed their ensemble pieces to a rapturous reception. Beardwood performed an excellent rendition of Bill Withers’ ‘Lovely Day’, with strong singing and a superb rhythm section keeping the groove ticking along. Bramley gave us the classic ‘500 Miles’ by The Proclaimers and belted out the famous chorus with great gusto. Norton’s performance of Abba’s ‘Mamma Mia’ was bright and really captured the musicality of the tune. No one, however, seemed to be having a better time than Prendergast and their rousing version of Wheatus’ ‘Teenage Dirtbag’ ultimately brought them home the victory in a hard-fought contest of musicality. Thank you as ever to all student House leaders who directed their ensembles and to Mr Holmes, Mr Newberry and Mr Sycamore for running the competition.

The Spring term saw football replace 15-a-side rugby as the main boys’ House sport and Prendergast carried on from their strong start to the year by winning both the Year 8 and Year 9 football competitions. Beardwood did, however, manage to defeat them in the senior football competition to take the win. Netball was a House sporting focus for the girls and Bramley did well this year, triumphing in the Year 7 and Year 9 competitions, with Prendergast not to be outdone winning the Year 8 competition. Lastly from the sporting field (pool!) we saw Houses competing in the swimming galas that Miss Manzi has grown over the last few years with her boundless enthusiasm. The competition itself is a mixture of traditional individual races, relays and the ever-popular mass float races at the end. Bramley were strong again here, winning the Year 7, 9 and 10 events with Beardwood victorious in Year 8. Bramley were also showing a strong determination away from the sporting arena. They picked up a win in the Year 9 science competition, where pupils had to use chemical analysis to hunt down a criminal. The Year 8 Science event, where pupils had to produce a perfect rainbow effect in a test tube using various acids and alkalis, and the Year 7 event, where pupils had to build a raft to stay floating under the most weight, were both won by Norton though. Thank you to Mr Kiddey and Mrs Smales for putting on these competitions. Bramley House did manage even more victories though, firstly in House Media (which is linked to the BBC school Report Day thanks to Miss Li-Sue’s innovation), secondly in House Psychology and thirdly in a new competition –Year 12 House Escape Room, where pupils had to solve riddles and clues to progress through the scenario presented to them.

Lastly for the Spring term, the library reached the end of one of their long-running competitions by announcing the result of the Year 7 Reading Around the World competition. Despite a gallant effort from all participants, it was Beardwood who came away with the victory. Thank you as always to Mrs Englefield and her Library team for putting this competition on. Therefore, as we came to Easter it did not come as a surprise that, after such a successful term, Bramley had made a major move in the House competition and now led the standings by just 94 points from Prendergast in second who were themselves only 10 points ahead of Beardwood. A frantic race to the finish beckoned in the Summer term.

During the Summer term many departments still contributed to the House competition. The English department, bereft of any assemblies in which to do their traditional poetry reading competitions, instead turned to debating and in Year 10 Norton were the winners whereas in Year 11 Prendergast were the winners. The Classics department also got in on the act with Bramley House emerging triumphant in their event. The library also continued their competitions and brought them to a conclusion. The Year 8 Reading Through Time competition was won by Prendergast by one point from Bramley. There was also the Battle of the Books quiz for Year 9 and Norton emerged victorious here. Finally, the Modern Foreign Languages department ran their Languages talent contest,

which had a fantastic display of linguistic skill on show. Congratulations to all participants but especially to the winner, Charlotte (Year 8) from Prendergast, whose brilliant rendition of the Ukrainian song ‘Solovey’ won the day.

With cricket being the main sport, along with athletics, in the Summer term, competitions abounded. Prendergast won the girls’ cricket in Year 7 and Year 8 as well as the boys competition in Year 8. Year 9 girls’ cricket was won by Bramley and the Year 10 competition saw Beardwood victorious. House Dance saw a good number of very talented entries, who not only demonstrated excellent raw dancing talent, but also a knack of powerfully evoking the theme of the dances. In the end, once both solo and duet dances had been seen, it was Norton who triumphed. Fresh from the success of the swimming galas in the spring term, our swimming staff ran a highly competitive water polo competition. This sport has been growing in popularity recently and we as a school seem to be very good at it! The House competition was thus a high-quality event with Bramley winning the Year 7/8 tournament and Prendergast winning the Year 9/10 tournament. Prendergast were also victorious in the tennis competition, which this year was run in Year 10.

In addition to the athletics events run for the House competition at Sports Day, which were won overall by Bramley, each year group still in school at the end of the summer term had its own athletics competition. Beardwood won

these events in Year 7 and Year 12, Bramley won the Year 9 competition and Prendergast were victorious in Years 8 and 10. Whilst the athletes were at Sutcliffe Park for Sports Day, the rest of the school remained on the school site for House Competitions Day. Varied activities such as archery, quidditch, space hopper racing, a quiz, swiss-ball football and turbo javelin throwing put the pupils through their paces in a fun packed day that culminated with a tug-of-war competition. Overall, Bramley won the Year 8 and 9 competitions, Prendergast won in Year 7 and Year 12 and Beardwood and Norton were joint winners in Year 10.

As always, pupils’ planner points, or ‘Roebucks’, (accrued for good work and contribution to the school throughout the year) were also taken into account in the overall totals, and this year, after a titanic struggle and a superbly close battle, it was Bramley who lifted the House trophy, winning by a tiny 63-point margin from gallant Prendergast in the end. Congratulations to the Bramley House student Leaders – Emma, Thomas, Jack, Valentina and Louise; and also, to Head of House, Mr Fielden, and Assistant Head of House, Miss Wraw. Thank you to all pupils who represented their House in events with their customary enthusiasm, competitiveness, intelligence and sportsmanship. Lastly, as ever, a huge thank you to all staff who organised and ran events in the House Competition this year.

Chris Morriss, House Activities Coordinator

ACADEMIC REPORT

The removal of Covid restrictions this spring heralded a welcome return to GCSE and A level examinations this year, much to the relief of teachers and pupils alike. That relief turned to pure delight when our pupils in Year 13 and Year 11 achieved some of the highest results the school has ever enjoyed, including the two years of centre and teacherassessed grades.

Despite the spectre of possible TAGs lingering in the background, our focus remained firmly on exams and Year 11s sat a full week of mocks in November for the first time, to provide teachers and pupils with a clear picture of any gaps in knowledge or skills that needed to be filled. Year 13s sat two days of mocks in December, in case we needed evidence for teacher-assessed grades, and then another week in January, to test their knowledge and understanding more fully.

As the year progressed, we became more and more assured that examinations would take place. Another week of mocks was held in March for both Year 11 and Year 13, to accommodate the ‘Advance Information’ that was issued by exam boards in February, as part of Ofqual’s package of mitigations for periods of remote learning.

Pupils left for the Easter break secure in the knowledge that exams were going ahead, armed with specific revision tasks and advice to help them make the most of the three weeks.

Exams began in early May, with A level Business and GCSE Modern Language speaking assessments first. The exam period was extended this year, to ensure pupils would not miss a full set of papers in any subject if they were absent due to Covid. The final GCSE exam on Thursday 23rd June was Physics; A levels finished on Tuesday 28th June with the Advance Extension Award for Mathematics. Term ended for all other pupils and teachers on Friday 8th July, and we left school to enjoy the summer.

With the government confirming that grades awarded would fall somewhere between 2019 and 2021 levels, we never expected our A level and BTEC results to be higher than last year’s. Despite this,

pupils achieved the highest percentage of A* grades ever at just over 38%, and the number of A*/A matched last year’s then-highest result of 71%. No fewer than 18 pupils achieved full A* grades and 98% will be attending their chosen university, a figure even more astounding against the background of grave warnings of reduced places and increased competition.

We hardly dared to hope this would be repeated at GCSE results’ day, but happily the picture remained rosy, with pupils achieving the best ever set of results: 36.5% grade 9s; 83.6% 9-7 and nearly 95% were grades 9-6. Six pupils achieved all grade 9s and an additional 21 pupils achieved all 9s and 8s. Considering that grades fell nationally, including some sharper falls amongst the independent sector, these results are all the more impressive.

Our congratulations go to all pupils in Year 11 as they start their A level and BTEC courses and to Year 13 students who are beginning university courses or apprenticeships, embarking on gap years or entering the job market. Finally, huge thanks go to the teaching staff who so ably supported and guided these pupils through what were unprecedented times. Melissa Schramm, Director of Studies

HAMP LIBRARY

It has been wonderful to have the Library fully open this year, with students from multiple year groups enjoying the space together.

The 2021 intake of Year 7 students has embraced Library life enthusiastically, and every break time sees an influx of students: to read, do some homework or research, use the computers, or enjoy a jigsaw. Many of the 2021 Year 12 intake have made the Library their preferred study space, and students from other year groups are here daily. It has been great to have so many different age groups making the Library their own.

The school’s focus on reading continues, and the Library and English department work closely together to enable students to access a wide range of both fiction and non-fiction literature. This year we have continued to expand the fiction collection, working on the mirror/window principle: fiction should offer students a mirror of their own lives but also a window into the lives of others. We have sought to curate the non-fiction collection with the help of academic departments, to ensure that Library resources are relevant to our students – this process will continue. We are currently migrating to a new Library Management System, which will work well when students have their own devices in school and will offer many opportunities to engage with students’ specific interests and needs. Borrowing levels have been high and we have very much appreciated the generosity of PAFA, who donated a strong wooden box to enable books to be returned securely at any time.

We ran the Reading Round the World (Year 7) and Reading Through Time (Year 8) challenges once again, together with the Genre Challenge for Year 9. These challenges are an excellent way to encourage students to discover authors they might otherwise never have encountered, and there is plenty of advice available for those unsure what to choose.

Library Club this year was filled with games and laughter and offered new Year 7 students a lovely chance to get to know members of other form groups. The second Battle of the Books house competition was hotly

contested and won by Norton.

We were absolutely delighted to qualify for a national book quiz final for the fourth consecutive time (two Kids’ Lit finals and two National Reading Champions finals). Colfe’s were placed in the top three each time but had never won. This year it was finally our moment. After winning the online regional heat, Colfe’s took part in the final in Central London, against schools from all over the United Kingdom, and were crowned National Reading Champions. Five hundred and fifty schools had entered the competition, so we were thrilled to win. We also took three teams to a South London quiz, where one team took first place and the other two teams tied with Dulwich College for second place – a rewarding return to in-person quizzing. Many thanks to all the students involved. Their knowledge, enthusiasm and commitment to practising together have been wonderful, and they have been great fun to spend time with. Most of the squad were from Year 7, so we look forward to the future.

We were glad that the lifting of restrictions allowed us to host Jenny Pearson for an author visit. Jenny used to teach at the Junior School, but is now a bestselling children’s author, with an outstanding gift for making comedy out of serious topics. Her talk was highly entertaining and received an enthusiastic reception from Year 7. Year 8 had the pleasure of a talk from Sarah Govett, who writes dystopian novels but has also branched out into teenage romantic comedy. Her books have always been popular, but the visit led to significantly increased borrowing thanks to the personal connection she made with the year group. Both author talks were followed by creative writing workshops.

Once again, each Year 6 class has had two lessons as an introduction to the Senior Library. This was a lockdown experiment, which has become a fixture. Next year the incoming students can look forward to a refurbished Library – we are ending this academic year by clearing the whole room – a massive undertaking but with the promise of a brighter, fresher Library ahead.

Henrietta Englefield Librarian

SIXTH FORM

CALM PERSEVERANCE PAYS OFF FOR YEAR 13 STUDENTS

For the Colfe’s students leaving the school in summer 2022, their Sixth Form experience has been like no other. It started with the return of lockdown as they started their A levels, with groups of students regularly being sent home if they were sitting too close to someone who tested positive for Coronavirus.

If students were unlucky (and some were), weeks of being in school were lost despite them never actually catching Coronavirus itself. We pushed on with windows wide open during the winter, masks in lessons, online learning and not being able to leave the school site in more than pairs. So, when we started Year 13 in masks once more, it required an exceptional self-discipline for our students to remain calm and focused on their studies. As we reorganised exams to take account of the possibility of assessed grades in the summer, Year 13 students stayed as calm as anyone could have expected. It wasn’t until after Christmas of Year 13 that I saw some students without a mask for the first time. Resilience has been a buzzword in education in recent years, but in all honesty, no one could have expected the challenges which confronted Year 13 students this year – they have been a remarkable group to take all this in their stride and still perform exceptionally well in their A levels this year. Added to this, individuals like our School Captains, Millie and Simon, or the Year 7 Mentors such as Rin, Sam, Moradeyo and Jaami set a fantastic, public example to the rest of the school through their positive approach throughout the last year. I don’t think I can express in words how impressed I am with the

way all Sixth Form students have coped this year, but Year 13 students with the additional pressure of A level exams for the first time have been remarkable.

As a reward for their perseverance over the last two years, Year 13 students enjoyed the first Prefects’ Dinner, Leavers Day and Sixth Form Ball for three years. It had been so long that we actually organised an open-air event for the 2020 and 2021 Leavers at the venue in September 2021 but, for obvious reasons, it lacked the relevance of the more normal end of year celebrations despite it being wonderful to see so many of our ex-students. There was even a unique outdoor prizegiving (due to Covid restrictions) for Year 14 students before they headed off for university where we celebrated their achievements.

Despite all these challenges, Year 13 students performed really well in their A levels, achieving better grades than any previous set of examined students. I don’t recall achieving better results than Whitgift in the past, but this is what we achieved this year.

Of course, all the comments above about our departing students also apply to Year 12, who have led the way in returning to normal activities in areas like sport, drama and music. I am particularly grateful to the Sixth Form Committee who, working with Ms Biggs & Ms Fitzpatrick, have reinvigorated the programme of events outside of the curriculum including bake sales, Year 7 discos, coffee mornings and charity events.

It would be wrong of me to conclude this report without mentioning the amazing support offered to our students by the Sixth Form Management Team. It has been a pleasure to

have Erin Fitzpatrick join the team as Sixth Form Secretary this year and Elizbeth Biggs has continued to offer dynamic, non-stop support to all Sixth Form students. Unfortunately, two of the team who offer such excellent support to university applications, Oliver Snell and Claire Le Hur, are leaving us – one for an internal promotion and another to pursue other interests. Olly and Claire have made wonderful contributions to the Sixth Form students over recent years, and they will be sorely missed in the future. However, Debbie Bean will continue to support students as Head of Careers and will be joined by Holly Batten and Zoe Kendrick next year.

It has been a wonderful year despite its challenges, and I feel privileged to work with such great students and staff. Thank you to everyone.

Spencer Drury, Director of Sixth Form

It’s been wonderful this year to get back to something resembling normal – not only did Year 11 and 13 sit their exams, but we also managed a theatre trip! We also reinstated several events that involved gathering large groups together, such as the Year 10 and 11 debates mentioned in Mr Hope’s report, and some exciting new events for KS3.

Personally, it has been a pleasure to finally lead the English Department through a year when we could all actually be together, and I have to say the department has thrived and grown. In September, we welcomed Ms Diamond, followed by Ms Flegg at the start of the new year. We completed the triple by recruiting Mr Wilcox in the summer. I asked them to share their initial impressions of Colfe’s:

I have had a very enjoyable first year at Colfe’s. My students have been a continual source of inspiration. A particular highlight has been the Year 8 Poetry Slam at the end of the Summer Term. The standard set by all the classes was incredibly high. The finalists exhibited extraordinary creativity, skill and commitment to the important messages in their poems. I look forward to next year in this thriving school community.

Ms Diamond

My first year at Colfe’s has been wonderful. The English Department are a talented and enthusiastic team who place their passion for literature and their empathy and care for students at the core of their practice. The students at Colfe’s have been welcoming and eager to learn, making my teaching experience both rewarding and inspiring. I am looking forward to another exciting year!

Ms Flegg

I have really enjoyed my first term at Colfe’s; the English department have been a real inspiration. My highlights so far have included the Year 7 Balloon Debate finals and the school’s production of ‘Into the Woods’. It has been great to see how many extracurricular opportunities the students can enjoy.

Mr Wilcox

All three will be staying on next year, in part due to Ms Solley’s maternity leave – we wish her all the best – and also, sadly, as a result of Ms Westrip’s departure – while we want her to have a wonderful time with her family in Australia, we’re also not so secretly hoping that she finds her way back to us. I think she’ll miss us too:

I have thoroughly enjoyed the last four years at Colfe’s and have particularly loved being part of such a dynamic English Department. These years of teaching in London hold many fond memories of trips and theatre productions, all of which I shall cherish for a long time.

Ms Westrip

Thank you Ms Westrip for everything you’ve done in your time in the English Department, just some of which is mentioned in this report. In September 2022 we will also be welcoming Mr Cook back from his sabbatical, and Mrs Duke will be returning from maternity leave, so we’re expecting another great year.

The rest of this report will showcase some of the amazing work produced by our pupils.

Kirstin Guy Head of English

One new development for Year 7 this year was the introduction of fortnightly Literacy lessons, which allowed us to target both support and stretch without giving up the mixed ability teaching that is so important in English generally. As well as raising SPaG standards across the year, some pupils produced some impressive poetry, many with a visual twist.

I do n’t wa nt to be scann ed , t o be read , t o be j udg ed, t o be m ad e, b y a firs t gla nce . I don ‘t w ant t o be s ca n ned , and no t tho ugh t goo d bec au s e I ca n’t d o thi s or th at .I’m n ot a b ar cod e. I’m no t a bar co de. Or s ca nna bl e. Yo u ca n’t rea d me at firs t gla nce. Or sec ond. G et to k now me. Fin d me ins ide. Yo u nev er k now wh at you wi ll fin d. I co uld be ni ce . Or a mu rde r. Bu t I’m n ot. I pr o mis e. Tr us t m e. I’m ne w. Ma y be yo u Ca n’t tru st m e. May be tha t’s wh at t hey thi nk. Bu t wha t i f th ey t r y. I’ m ni ce . No t a ba r cod e . I do n’t wan t to b e sca n ne d. S o b ec ause of t hat , pl ea s e don ‘t.

Josh

0. Hello Friends, *

Shameful friends

6. Unreliable friends

10. Multiple friends

Silly friends

Manipulative friends

Care-free friends

Organized friends

Flattery friends.

Reliable friends

Hurtful friends

1. No-Friends

Close friends

Good friends

friends

Sad friends

Happy friends

Serious friends

Loving friends

Authentic friends -breathe-

Fake Friends.

. Hello Friends,*

Why does it fall to me

To explain

When they ask, confusedWhy?

There is a ruby red drop

On the end of my finger Or Something buzzes

Beeps:

A disruption the teacher pretends not to notice When

I sit by the side

POETIC JUSTICE

Poetry, to say the least, Is a writer’s fearful beast,

Many poems are tedious and dull

Whereas some are as empty as the skull Of the poet that claims to be genius But they only do it for financial convenience However, I must grant them credit, Because I won’t say that poems are easy to edit,

Before you can blink, This is all you can think,

Watching them Alone

A sweet taste in my mouth

To me it feels like lost freedom. To them it is jealousy And yet.

I am the one who is - and should be Jealous of them Because.

I worry and fret

Another added stress

They go without.

It falls to me

Should it rhyme?

If not, is that a crime?

What lengths should the stanzas be?

If I get this right, could this be a bonanza for me?

I once read Jabberwock

What a load of poppycock

I have tried Poe,

And still that was a ‘no’

I could not understand If,

So maybe I just do not possess that gift. Isabel

To explain, Why?

When they ask a question

It is somehow my job to answer.

I’m tired of it.

Of them.

The constant questions of Why?

I prime needles every day

Immune to the pain. They ask, I reply

It hurts more on the inside, Anyway. Verity

WATCHING PAINT DRY

Wet, Wet, Wet, Still wet.

How much longer must I wait?

Wet, Wet, Less wet?

No, Still wet.

Wet, Wait,

Is it...

Is it... DRY?!

Nope.

*Sigh* Emily

All of Year 7 also took part in a Drama workshop in the Summer Term. Every single pupil either acted or directed a short scene from Shakespeare’s As You Like It, producing some truly impressive performances in a short period of time. Thank you to Ms Diamond and Ms Westrip who organised this, and Rosie in Year 12 who helped the pupils on the day.

As mentioned earlier, the highlight of the year for Year 8 was the Poetry Slam in the penultimate week of term. Having spent some time exploring different forms of poetry, with a particular focus on the oral tradition and poetry as protest, they all wrote and performed their own in their classes. The 21 finalists performed for the whole year group, and several managed to provoke righteous anger and/or reduce staff to tears.

The standard was so high that we had to increase the number of prizes, awarding honourable mentions to Rebecca and Myra as well as runners up prizes to Cade and Cameron before finally crowning Sam as the winner. His poem is printed here.

ANTISEMITISM BY SAM

Antisemitism,

The discrimination of Jews, That’s often met with scepticism, Passed as a cloaked joke the provokes anger In many peoples’ hearts and mine alike, That delivers a shiver of ancestral stories That almost become lifelike.

No one could re-imagine the atrocities, Of the communities destroyed nearly to the brink of no return, And the non-affinity between Nazi and Jew in the holocaust, And the intensities of the activities that caused 6 million fatalities.

The horrors of Auschwitz-Birkenau,

The thought of the Nazi, ‘Holier-Than-Thou,’ 4.1 million here would die, Under the gates that read, ‘Arbeit Macht Frei.’

People should respect Jewish culture, Of the kippahs and the kosher structure, It is no joke to fling out your right arm, For the sting... That is thrust upon a Jew Is something you could never make up to.

Think of the people whose life could’ve been spared, To spread the word, Just as Anne Frank tried, Spies on the inside, And the genocide, The genocide that spread disgust worldwide.

The incapacitation of freedom, And 1000, 1000 too many suicides, Caused by Nazi persecution and the representation of the star on the chest, And the insanity of what Hitler called, ‘The Final Solution.’

So, remember, Next time you whisper some Jewish slander to your friend,

Think about the bravery of the British Army and the RAF,

That liberated Europe and ensured Its safety, That could’ve brought the many lives, Of UK citizens, And mine,

To an end.

Of course, as pupils move up the school, the focus turns to more analytical writing, with Year 9 exploring Romeo and Juliet and classic novels alongside some modern poetry and Year 10 getting stuck into Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s Purple Hibiscus. Based on Holly’s review, they seem to like it:

PROFOUND THOUGHTS IN PURPLE PROSE

You could read any book - any book, about anyone, anywhere. Why should you read this one?

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has been awarded countless accolades for her writing, securing the Commonwealth Writer’s Prize and the Orange Prize. She has written one of the New York Times Top Ten Best Books of the Year and her Ted Talk is one of the most viewed Ted Talks of all time.

In Adichie’s speech, ‘Danger of a Single Story’, she reflects on the types of books she read as a child, commenting that “[they] demonstrat[ed] ... how impressionable and vulnerable we are in the face of a story, particularly as children”. The poignancy of this idea is clearly evident in her novel, Purple Hibiscus. Told from the first-person perspective of the sympathetic and empowering character of Kambili. She is a young, lost girl living under the tyrannical reign of her traditional, Catholic father. Shockingly, he frequently and violently abuses his wife and children, often to the point of hospitalisation. But for Kambili, who has never known anything else, she accepts this as punishment for coming second in her class or visiting her grandfather, a ‘heathen’, for too long.

Purple Hibiscus is set during a civil war in Nigeria, presumably in the late 1970s –1980s. In the fight against a corrupt government, Kambili’s father, Eugene, risks his life to help publish a newspaper that dares to call out government officials’ immorality, contradicting the dictatorship he maintains at home and the strict rules he enforces upon his family. In day-to-day life the civil war doesn’t affect the Achike family life, but for Eugene’s widowed sister Ifeoma, living in a university town outside of the city, food shortages and power cuts are a daily struggle as she looks after her three children. This novel is a powerful reminder that money can’t buy you happiness, as, whilst the Achike family have a luxurious house, several employed staff and the ability to make regular philanthropic donations to charities and the church, the lasting impact of colonialism is presented negatively and tragically. Adichie shows us what is often hidden from our eyes. It is a reminder of how history is still an overwhelming factor in the 21st century and about how the actions we take today matter. They matter to not just us, but to future generations as well.

Adichie vividly and emphatically depicts fear, pain and confusion in Purple Hibiscus, whilst simultaneously also conveying pride in her country, excitement about the future and joy in finding one’s identity against the odds. At a glance, Kambili’s life seems distant and unrelatable, but in reality many of the characters face challenges that silently seep into our everyday lives, affecting our decisions, and our own journeys. Many of the characters struggle to find the sweet spot between Catholicism introduced by colonisers, and traditional religions. Whilst you might not struggle with this, or even be religious, the novel highlights the difficulty of trying to merge two clashing cultures in the modern age, when everyone, everywhere seems to have their own opinion. Other re-occurring themes include female independence in a patriarchal society - “‘when they graduate, the husbands own them and their degrees’ ... ‘A husband crowns a woman’s life... it is what they want’” - debating what is right versus what people think they want.

Purple Hibiscus will open your eyes to another world. Not just the unimaginable feeling of fear, the brutal pain, it also clarifies the sound of true laughter, the smell of freedom, the taste of fresh rain in the cool air. It shows you how often our decisions are influenced by what we want people to think of us, no matter how absurd it seems.

In ‘Danger of a Single Story’, Adichie also stated “Stories have been used to dispossess and to malign but stories can also be used to empower and to humanise. Stories can break the dignity of a people, but stories can also repair that broken dignity”. Purple Hibiscus strikingly juxtaposes these concepts. Kambili lives in accordance with the stories taught to her by religion, but these stories stop her from discovering the rest of the world, other ways of thinking and living.

This book might not change your life, but it will definitely improve it. It will expand your view of an ever-growing world and make you question your choices and what influences them.

There are few people, even fewer cars.

One every minute. A red Vauxhall, a black Mercedes. Each car breaks my sphere of tranquillity. A few stores are still open. The lifeless flickering barely aids to pierce the thick shield of darkness around. I turn

Occasionally, when I walk down the High Street that is filled with the hollow shells of the stalls and shops, I remember my time in retail. How horrendous.

The fake politeness, the faker smiles, the fakest conversations, all pre-scripted by a predetermined social norm to have a conversation that no one wants or needs to have.

Hobbling across the street, I see an elderly man. Each step excruciatingly slow. How does he ever get anywhere? So frail, so vulnerable. If the wind blew hard enough, he could wither away. Zero point living if you are that old anyway.

Xanthe: “The snow’s not showing any sign of stopping,” came the boisterous cry of my cousin from the living room. Somehow the chalet, buried in the jagged mouth of a French mountain, was constantly resounding with her obnoxious voice. This was how it was every year on the annual family ski trip; my forementioned cousin, Martina, would trap my unwilling parents, Joyce and David, in a conversational black hole of skiing prowess. My brother, George, and my uncle, Robert, would stumble to the kitchen discussing existential crises over bottles of wine.

My older (far more successful) sister, Lisa, would be left with her and Martina’s children playing hide and seek in the multitude of rooms, and even

the cat would decide the attic was preferable to my company.

I didn’t mind being left alone.

I enjoyed watching the cracked shadows lengthen with the slow retreat of the bleached sun from my room and the snowflakes build up in compact layers stealthily rising towards my window. Here, where slippery mountain roads twisted like intestines for miles past civilization, the darkness should have smothered all. Here, where fir trees huddled together for warmth their needles scratching each other’s stiff bark, any sound should have been swallowed in the abyss. But no. Instead, my arrogant cousin was spilling her opinions on expensive hams.

Ben: As the summer sun sank softly below all the pastel-coloured houses, Ruby and I gazed towards the French horizon. The trees swayed and the golden-brown leaves rustled in the breeze, the water from the canal splashed up against the banks meeting the railings we were leaning on. It was no wonder Paris was my favourite city, and Ruby’s too. We began to walk back to our hotel, the beauty of it all made me remember just why I had been so enthusiastic about coming here, and why Ruby too had dreamed of visiting.

“After you,” I said, watching her stroll in.

Xanthe: In the year 2007, on a dreary London Tuesday at 11:23pm, Professor Helen McMillian was anxiously waiting for a knock at her door. The monotonous click click click of her nails on the hollow desk reverberated around her personal purgatory. Those mahogany walls that encased the office, which normally created such a comfortable cocoon, were now daunting and oppressive. Then the door opened.

McMillian’s eyes caught on the bulky silhouette of the woman who crossed the threshold. She lumbered into the room, hooded eyes scanning the surroundings: the broken chair, the wonky picture, the coffee stain on the rug. Her fingers constantly quivering, tanned and calloused. With a profile so overwhelmingly stocky that it filled the room. Paired with her immense presence, she was emitting an electric atmosphere that charged the air around her and demanded to be acknowledged. McMillian was not unaffected.

She looked back at me swishing her brunette hair, revealing her piercing emerald eyes. Her small self still managed to fill any room, especially the one we were staying in. Calling it cosy would have been generous, but we couldn’t have cared less. It was perfect. We were falling asleep to the sound of flowing water and the beginning of some rain as my eyes widened, pupils dilated. Thud. What came next was some muffled words from the opposite room followed by a flurry of hurried yet controlled footsteps, as if someone were trying to catch their bus without running.

The sunflowers on the windowsill swayed, finding their north in the woman. The professor was compelled to follow their movement, sitting forward in her seat. This woman projected life in both its extremities – the juvenile joy brought by the smile perched comfortably on her face contrasted by the foreboding melancholy that seeped from her crow-like eyes.

This was a woman who had dared to peel back human-nature, past all the societal conformity and self-loathing to the heart at the centre. A woman who had discovered whatever true evil resides within. A woman who was visibly haunted with daily encounters of the worst humanity has to offer.

After Jane Francis finished her silent appraisal of the office, she focused all her detective prowess on McMillian.

“Professor McMillian, it is good to see you. However, I fear the circumstances that compelled you to call me here at such a late hour.”

“Hi, how can I help you?”

“Would you like a bag with that?”

“Hope you enjoyed your visit.”

Sophie: Midnight. The grandfather clock stood alone in the endless hallway. Its chimes echoed throughout the house, shattering the silence. Intricate teardrops of glass hung loosely suspended above Mrs Keynes, tinkling in the soft breeze that floated in through the open window. As she explored her way through the house, the inescapable crimson-red walls intimidated her, inspecting and observing her every move; the rotting floorboards, groaning and moaning, disguised themselves under the dust-thick carpet. A few more corners she turned, until the dining room revealed itself, standing in solitude. Remnants of the night before lay around the house,

Snowflakes danced through the pearlescent, star filled sky, frosting the thriving endless expanse of tall oak trees as if they were decorations on a festive Christmas cake. The crescent moon’s light cut through the chilling night radiantly illuminating the Bianchi’s luxurious ski lodge. The snow had now calmly settled, and I could hear the ground wretch in pain as my sturdy wellington boots lifted and crashed back down onto it with each step I took. The smoke was swirling up at the tip of my pipe like a methodical feather climbing the

night. Crunch. Crunch. Crunch. I reached the bottom of the stairs leading up to the lodge like a stairway to mystery, and at the top there it was. The sobbing of a grief stricken now widowed woman, police officers standing in front of her, their hats pressed against their chests, and that yellow tape that sealed the whole area off. A textbook crime scene. The body of a Mr. Filippo Bianchi laid lifeless in the centre of the madness, as if it were the eye of a hurricane; chaos all around, peace in the eye.

like clues asking to be discovered. Champagne glasses here, cocktail sausage there. Surrounded by shades of blood red and glistening deep gold, a singular teacup rested gently on a deep mahogany tabletop. A soft steam danced elegantly away from the cup; sweet smells of jasmine and juniper enticed her senses, the blend of aromas dragging her in to pull the dainty china cup towards her nose.

A slight sniff was all that was needed. The poor woman could no longer hold her weight as she collapsed onto the carpet, and after a short series of various retches and wheezes, the vast house returned to its previous deathly silent state.

At KS5, it’s been more or less business as usual, with both Literacy Society and Book Club welcoming Year 12 and 13 students, and a trip to see Hamlet at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse. Next year, Ms Flegg will be in charge of all matters at KS5, while Ms Solley is on maternity leave, and she already has exciting plans in place. In the classroom, we introduced some exciting new texts (alongside some older ones that were new to our students) for coursework, exploring everything from love triangles to microaggressions.

As always, I’d like to finish by thanking Mr Hope for all his work with our young debaters and leave you with his report.

It has been great to see school debating revert to something like prepandemic normality, with the return of a mixed year group Senior Debating Club in Key Stage 4. Old stagers like Eleanor, Maya, Nico, Josh, Amelia, Emily, Isabel, Daniel and Cordelia (Year 11) were joined by an enthusiastic group of Year 10s eager to refine their debating chops. Jack, Ben, Ellen, Fred, Ted, Ollie, Tal, Mirja, Tabitha and Moses were just some of the new faces who brought a new energy to the group, enlivening motions on individual freedom, the environment and, er, the rights of Santa’s elves.

Meanwhile, under the leadership of Mr Emmerich, debating returned to the Sixth Form, with a weekly lunchtime club attracting plenty of interest among Year 12 students, with Emma in particular standing out with some excellent performances. We look forward to the Year 12s joining the afterschool debating club in the coming year.

House debating also returned with a vengeance, with debates of exceptional quality across the year groups. In Year 11, Prendergast’s team of Amelia and Samson first narrowly overcame a strong Bramley line up before disposing of an equally heavy hitting Beardwood in the final. The Year 10 competition saw Bramley and Norton going head-to-head in the final, with Fred, Tabitha and Freya ultimately prevailing over Mirja, Tal and Jack in another wonderfully contested debate.

The future looks bright lower down the school as well, with the return of the Year 7 Balloon Debate for the first time since 2019. With everyone in Year 7 taking part, six students – George, Emily, Elizabeth, Gruff, Verity and Turmalina – came through some tough heats to reach the final in front of their peers. The conditions in the Beardwood Theatre on a sweltering June day gave new meaning to the term heated debate, but all the finalists spoke brilliantly, wowing the audience, with Turmalina narrowly winning for her confident performance as Taylor Swift - a wonderful end to a wonderful year for school debating.

MATHEMATICS

This year, Year 7 and Year 8 Colfe’s students revealed their mathematical competency in the Junior Maths Challenge, organised by the United Kingdom Mathematical Trust.

Thankfully, for the first time since the disruption of the Coronavirus, pupils were able to sit the challenge in the main hall rather than online.

Over 260 students took part in the competition which encourages mathematical reasoning, precision of thought, and fluency in using basic mathematical techniques to solve interesting problems. I am pleased to report that 76 pupils received a bronze award, 47 received a silver award and 12 received a gold award, of which 5 pupils qualified to take part in the prestigious Junior Kangaroo Challenge; Lucas (Year 8), Verity (Year 7), Tiago (Year 8), Michael (Year 8) and a special mention goes to Ralph (Year 8) for gaining a merit.

More recently, Year 7 students competed against each other in a mathematical stretch and challenge afternoon, giving them an opportunity to tackle a variety of engaging mathematical activities while developing teamwork and communication skills. The entire cohort enjoyed the afternoon and showed great tenacity in applying themselves to some stimulating problems.

Pupils in Years 9, 10 and 11 were able to apply their skills to the Intermediate Mathematical Challenge with outstanding results. Of the 116 pupils who entered, 51 achieved bronze, 33 achieved silver and 12 achieved gold certificates. Of particular note were the Year 8

and Year 9 pupils who entered, especially the impressive silver awards for Zachary, Zichun and Gabriella (all Year 9) and Ivan, Oseremen and Lucas (all Year 8). Nico (Year 11) continued his spectacular streak in the competition with a gold award and the top mark in the school. Thanks to their performance in the Intermediate Mathematical Challenge, 15 students also qualified for the Intermediate Mathematical Kangaroo. A coveted merit certificate was achieved by Zachary (Year 9), Daniel and Nico (both Year 11).

To challenge our Year 10 and 11 pupils further, 42 were also entered into the difficult Senior Mathematical Challenge, which is designed for students in Year 13 and below. In addition to the 19 bronze winners, it is with great pride that I can report that we achieved 6 silver awards won by Adrian, Alex, Alexandria (all Year 10), Nico, Ryan and Eleanor (all Year 11). The most impressive junior performance, however, came from Ahan, who achieved the rare gold award and the chance to compete in the Senior Kangaroo. When counting the senior entrants, a total of 78 pupils were awarded certificates. A special mention goes to Isha (Year 12), Ajan (Year 12) and James (Year 13) for receiving a certificate of merit in the Andrew Jobbings Senior Kangaroo, which is the second round of the Senior Mathematical Challenge. Congratulations are extended to Alice (Year 12), Isha (Year 12) and Louise (Year 12) for receiving a distinction in the Mathematical Olympiad for Girls.

Colfe’s School had another strong performance in the Hans Woyda competition this year, succeeding in the League section by winning against Bromley High and Eltham College. Despite our unfortunate loss to Dulwich College at the knockout section, the

competition was incredibly intense, and our students demonstrated their strong potential. Well done to James (Year 13), Lukas (Year 13), Joshua (Year 13), James (Year 12), Alice (Year 12), Isha (Year 12), Ahan (Year 11), Nico (Year 11), Ryan (Year 11) and Rohan (Year 9) for representing the school on at least one occasion. They have shown an amazing ability to stay calm under pressure and have learned a lot of mathematical skills in these competitions. Aside from the competitions, we do our best to give our pupils every opportunity to broaden their horizons, especially to try different Maths-related careers. In November, all Year 12 and Year 13 Further Mathematics students visited Emmanuel Centre in London for a one-day conference called ‘Maths in Action’. On the day, they listened to different talks from mathematicians, engineers, statisticians, architects, codebreakers and data scientists, exploring the possibilities of Maths within various career paths. For example, they had a taste of Game theory and the integration of Maths and the aerospace industry. A female engineer who worked at NASA also shared her experience of writing code using mathematical knowledge, and how learning Further Mathematics at A level helped her to achieve and succeed. In addition, Alex (Year 12) impressed us all at the venue by solving the Rubik’s cube in only 23 seconds, an admirable feat in front of over one thousand people!

In general, pupils have worked extremely hard all year, taking full advantage of all the digital online resources and the numerous clinics on offer. We are now eagerly anticipating the results of the public examinations in all IGCSE and A level Mathematical qualifications!

Antoine Guy Head of Mathematics

SCIENCE

BIOLOGY

After two years without any external exams, the Biology students at Colfe’s School finally had the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding in the 2022 GCSE and A level exams. I could not be prouder of this group of pupils, as they have shown a remarkable degree of perseverance in their preparation for these exams. Given the disruptions of the past two years, the Biology department approached this year with the understanding that students would have gaps in their knowledge due to the limitations inherent in the remote learning experience. Consequently, we wanted to provide these year groups with as much support as possible to address this. For instance, many of our pupils regularly attended Biology revision clinics, scheduled drop-in sessions, and the one-to-one support which we offered on an ad hoc basis. As a result, we feel confident that the Year 11 and Year 13 students were fully prepared to sit their examinations and that they had completed the entire syllabus to the highest possible standard. I wish them the best of luck in their future endeavours.

The other year groups at Colfe’s also had the opportunity to showcase their impressive grasp of the subject. Most of our Year 9 and Year 10 students participated in the UK Biology Challenge competition, with 22 pupils achieving a medal and an additional 45 receiving a commendation. Furthermore, all of our Year 12 students participated in the UK Intermediate Biology Olympiad. More than three quarters of the pupils who entered the Olympiad achieved either a medal or a commendation, which is a testament to all of their hard work over the course of the year and their enthusiasm for Biology.

Congratulations to our Year 9 and Year 10 students who achieved a gold or silver medal in this year’s UK Biology Challenge competition.

Lower Sixth Form students to topics beyond the confines of the A level syllabus. In addition, our Year 13 pupils will be participating in a residential field studies trip in Osmington Bay. This coastal location allows students to carry out in-depth studies of less familiar ecosystems by examining marine zonation, Psammoseral Succession and river ecology. This will enable our pupils to develop a deeper appreciation of the care required when planning and carrying out ecological studies, as well as the care with which data needs to be analysed in order to produce meaningful conclusions.

The Covid pandemic of the past two years has made it abundantly clear that a solid understanding of Biology and the other sciences is essential to guide public policy. The influence of personal beliefs on the global response to the pandemic has, at times, been more highly valued than scientific facts. One prominent example of this has been the ‘anti-vax’ movement, which has used legitimate concerns about the potential side effects of a newly developed vaccine as a reason to reject a vaccination program that has been estimated to have saved hundreds of thousands of lives. Therefore, it is crucial that our pupils are able to critically evaluate scientific data, and we are pleased to see the continuous development of their biological studies as they channel their enthusiasm for a subject which is often at the core of life itself.

Gregor Zimmermann

Head of Biology

Many of our Year 12 students joined Colfe’s Medical Society (MedSoc), where aspiring medics and dentists meet on a weekly basis to engage in activities related to medicine. Weekly events ranged from discussing biographies and articles that pupils had researched to performing dissections and sutures. Additionally, students were able to give presentations focused on a variety of topics, including medical ethics, glioblastomas, and the use of 3D organ printing. The Medical Society also invited external speakers and as such has been fortunate to hear about the experience and career path of a general practitioner, and to discuss medical school interviews.

After a two-year hiatus, we are once again able to organise extracurricular enrichment activities, particularly school trips. For instance, this autumn our Year 12 students will have the opportunity to attend the ‘Biology in Action’ lecture series in central London. In this event a group of renowned scientists and science communicators will present talks on recent advances in a variety of biological fields, ranging from gene editing to Astrobiology. We chose these talks as they will expose our

Congratulations to all Year 12 students who achieved a distinction in this year’s Intermediate Biology Olympiad.

CHEMISTRY

The Chemistry department was thrilled to return to normal teaching over the course of the past academic year. After navigating the need for hybrid teaching in the Autumn term, the department went from strength to strength, resulting in a highly successful year. I am delighted with the outstanding level of commitment shown by both staff and pupils alike, through the entire academic year.

As would be expected, our principal focus over the past year has been to help prepare Year 11 and Year 13 students for their external exams. Both pupils and teachers worked exceptionally well together in doing this, especially in the latter part of the year when in-class revision lessons became increasingly common. We would like to praise the tremendous amount of hard work that pupils put into their revision, and we are sure that students will achieve outstanding grades in both year groups.

Once again, we are impressed with how our Year 12 students approached their preparation for their GCiE exams. As always, the grades given will need to be moderated by our external partner before being released, but the signs so far point to some exceptional achievement across the cohort, with 24% of all Chemistry students achieving a score of above 85%, and a total of 52% of pupils achieving above 70%. Clearly there are some very exciting times ahead, and we are looking forward to working with all pupils in Year 13, to help to maximise the progress that they make.

The changes in guidelines that occurred during the year enabled a renewed focus on practical work, especially for those year groups taking external examinations. In these cases, there was a need to carry out core practical work, so a special thanks must go to our technician, Jey Kalavary, whose expertise ensured that this transition occurred so seamlessly. Additionally, it was a pleasure to see the Year 12 pupils take part in the RSC Y12 Analyst competition, which was a day-long chemistry

PHYSICS

I would firstly like to acknowledge the hard work that all students, particularly Year 11 and 13, have put into this year. After the disruption of the last couple of years, they applied themselves splendidly and overall produced excellent results. The maturity that they showed during this time is a credit to them all.

At the end of the year, we said farewell to Mr Culkin. We would like to thank him for all his hard work and the enthusiasm that he has brought to the department, and wish him every success at his new school in Spain.

Our new Physics teacher, Miss Jangra, celebrated passing her PhD from University College London in ‘Building Physics and heat transfer’ and passing her PGCE in the same week.

The 2021 leavers gained excellent grades in Physics and secured places at some highly competitive universities, including 2 students going on to study Physics with theoretical Physics at Imperial College London.

Past Physics students have continued to excel in their fields. Marc has started a PhD on the ‘Emergence of Macroscopic Irreversibility in Open Classical and Quantum Systems’ at Surrey University, and is being supervised by Professor Jim Al-Khalili, a familiar face of Physics on TV.

From the same year group, Frank has started a PhD in Quantum Materials at KTH in Stockholm.

With the full return to school, Physics has focussed on getting as much practical work into a tight schedule as possible. In the Year 7’s activity day, students were set the challenge of designing and building crash protection for an egg. Many designs were highly original and surprisingly effective, so much so that we will have to crash them a little harder next year!

competition that allowed the students to use their problem-solving skills and knowledge from class in an unfamiliar scenario. Enrichment activities continued to flourish, with Year 10 students participating in the National Scientific Thinking Competition with Triple Y10. Dr Lindsay was the driving force behind both events; she put in a great amount of effort to both organise and deliver these exciting extracurricular activities, and I would like to thank her for providing such excellent enrichment to these groups of pupils. It should also be mentioned that we had an incredibly successful partnership schools afternoon, where visiting students showed a great deal of enthusiasm and engagement when investigating the chemical reactions behind self-inflating balloons. Furthermore, one Chemistry pupil achieved a Silver CREST award, earlier on in the academic year, for an outstanding project that they delivered, and we are still waiting for feedback on re-submissions for a number of students. This is an area in which we will be encouraging more students to get involved in the future.

We would like to finish by saying that the Chemistry department is incredibly proud of the excellent attitude that our pupils have shown throughout the academic year. In many ways, after the disruption of the past couple of years, it has been a challenge for students to transition back to a normal school year. We are delighted with the enthusiasm and engagement that pupils demonstrated throughout the year, as well as in their preparation for the end of year exams. We would also like to take this opportunity to extend a warm welcome to Miss Ellie Moore, who is joining the Chemistry department next academic year, and we look forward building upon the successes that we have achieved this past year when we return in the Autumn term.

Thomas Armstrong, Head of Chemistry

Year 12 students were taken to the Royal Institution in London to enjoy a lecture on Physics experiments that have changed the world. We are so lucky to have this venue so close and the ability to enjoy such an iconic lecture theatre with world class experts in their field.

We also gave the students an opportunity to use their new gained knowledge to calculate the launch trajectories of water balloons to hit Mr Hillmer from the roof of the Stewart building, with various levels of success.

The Electric Car Club has resumed with an eager team of Year 8 students building two cars to race at Goodwood motor circuit. The upgraded car managed a personal best of 27.5km on 2 car batteries in the 1 ½ hour race. With new motors, cooling systems and gearing to be installed next year, we hope for further improvements and to be contending for silverware.

John Fishwick, Head of Physics

PSYCHOLOGY

This year saw the return to public examinations and with it an intense focus and determination in all our students. With the reduced specification released in February, they were able to learn much of the material at a greater depth, and this amplified both their enjoyment of and confidence in Psychology.

As a respite to study, Year 13 Psychologists visited the home of Sigmund Freud, now a museum in North London. After a brief introduction to Freud’s background, they were given freedom to explore his house, with the highlight of using his very own toilet! Meandering down the grand staircase to his office they found Freud’s study, filled with a wealth of cultural artefacts and books that influenced his ideas and shaped psychological therapy today. They saw the parallels in Freud’s interests in archaeology and the study of the mind – both of which involve delving deeper than surface material to understand how historic events result in current behaviour. They then participated in a workshop led by a practising psychodynamic psychotherapist and enthusiastic advocate of the approach. The therapist described in detail Freud’s case study of ‘Little Hans’ and students thus understood the origins of his phobia of horses and were able to critically analyse the validity of the theory. The speaker was highly engaging, and he debunked a lot of myths about this story, such as the role the parents played in his phobia acquisition and diagnosis. After this, they learned about Freud’s daughter, Anna, who lived in the house long after her father’s death and investigated children’s learning, behaviour and well-being. This was an enjoyable trip that added to the breadth of the students’ knowledge beyond the textbook, and my thanks go to Megan Marchant for initiating this trip.

Several pupils are going on to read Psychology or Criminology at University and we wish them every success in their studies and future career. Finally, I would like to thank Miss McKay for all her hard work and professionalism this year (covering for Miss Dunster’s maternity leave), and I am delighted that she will be staying with us next year.

Jerry Lea, Head of Psychology

MODERN LANGUAGES

It is with a certain pride that I can say that the academic year 2021-2022 was the most active in living memory in regard to the activities the Modern Foreign Languages Department at Colfe’s has organised.

The restrictions put upon us due to the pandemic were a catalyst for creating as many language-related events, clubs, trips and activities as permitted, in order to reignite the passion for language learning among Colfeians after two long Covid years. I would like to thank all members of the department for getting involved in planning, organising and running so

EUROPEAN DAY OF LANGUAGES

many events, but also extend my thanks to our wonderful young learners who embraced our offering with the utmost enthusiasm. Our Stretch and Challenge programme took off properly this year and Ms Saba kept our keen linguists engaged with a plethora of events and competitions, of which the Anthea Bell prize for Translation was the academic highlight, whilst the ML Talent Show House Competition was the entertainment highlight, showcasing how much talent there is in our school community. The Department is looking forward to welcoming Ms Chapman back from her maternity leave; she has been missed by both pupils and staff!

Marios Koutsakis, Head of Modern Languages

This was the day that the Modern Languages Department took over the school! The celebration of the European Day of Languages in late September was the kick-off of a variety of events that ran throughout the academic year to re-ignite the fire for learning languages at Colfe’s. This year, we worked cross-curricularly across departments to showcase the relevance of languages across all walks of life. I am very grateful to my colleagues in other departments who helped us run a highly engaging day across the school.

The English department taught ‘Beowulf’ and focused on Germanic roots of Old English compared to German. Additionally, pupils read ‘The Little Prince’ in English and French. Maths focused on the Greek letters that are used in that subject and students had the opportunity to study the Greek alphabet from a linguistic point of view. Pupils in the DT department made signs with the world “welcome” in all the languages spoken by our Year 7s at home, whilst in History teachers and learners studied the language of the French resistance in original French. The Art department organised a whole-day art project in which pupils painted Pablo Picasso’s epic mural ‘Guernica’ on the wall of the foyer in our creative arts centre, whilst Sixth Form Spanish students, having researched the Spanish Civil War, were informing visitors of the historical background. The Music department ran a song competition with songs in different languages (French, German, Spanish, Italian, Arabic). In Modern Languages we ran a Year 7 art competition on the topic “Languages open doors”, whilst in Years 8 to 10 pupils had the opportunity to take on the role of teacher in our language lessons. Pupils were tasked with teaching 10 key words or phrases to their classmates in either their own home language or a language they had researched independently. It was interesting to see such a range of teaching styles on display! At lunch time, we ran an exciting Treasure Hunt House Competition where all clues were given in different languages. Additionally, there was a European themed menu in the canteen, the Library put up signs in different languages and our Careers department put together an info package about studying languages at A level and career opportunities with a degree in languages, which was sent to Year 10 and Year 11 parents. Finally, at form time, pupils had to solve a virtual Escape Room activity on the topic of languages.

BREAKFAST CLUB

As every year, our highly popular Breakfast Club for Linguists ran from November to February. It has become customary to invite our Sixth Form linguists to a continental style breakfast on a cold wintery Friday morning before the school day has begun, to listen to external and internal speakers, interact with them, ask questions and hopefully get inspired by the wonderful talks they hear. This year, we expanded our audience by inviting keen Year 11 students who show particular linguistic aptitude or are considering taking up a language at A level. The topics presented this year varied from ‘The most difficult language to learn’ delivered by the former Head of Spanish, Mr Seddon, to ‘The role of languages in my life’ by our Headmaster, who is an ardent linguist, to ‘Studying Languages at university’ by Mr Martin Stocker of Queen Mary University of London. Our lovely language assistants took part as well, by presenting us what their own country means to them, whilst Ms Susi Sahmland from Goldsmiths College held a session on ‘Language Acquisition’.

BFI TRIPS

Travel restrictions were in place for a large part of the year and unfortunately no trips abroad were allowed this year. Nevertheless, we organised five trips to the British Film Institute which ran excellent film studies workshops for pupils in Spanish and German. The workshops focused not only on language learning, but also on cinema studies as well. They were headed by university lecturers and held almost entirely in Spanish and German. We are very keen to take pupils abroad once again and we are looking forward to the upcoming Christmas markets trip, as it will signify the beginning of getting back to normal.

FOREIGN LANGUAGE DIPLOMAS

Our department has a long tradition in preparing our strongest linguists for the prestigious examinations of DELE in French and Goethe-Zertifikat in German. These are internationally recognised language diplomas awarded by the governments of France and Germany via their cultural institutions, the Institut Français and the Goethe-Institut. Huge congratulations to Amelia, Wassim, Victoria, Amelia, Katie and Emma for passing DELF. This year, I was glad to see the addition of the equivalent Spanish examination, DELE, to our qualifications offer and the participants of this club along with the participants of the Goethe-Zertifikat club will test their language skills in the next term. Many thanks to Ms Davies, Ms Saba and Mr Ollerenshaw for enthusing our students and teaching the lessons.

YEAR 7 CULTURAL THEME COMPETITION

The summer term in Year 7 is dedicated to film studies. Through carefully chosen films, we explore different aspects of French, German and Spanish culture and invite our pupils to engage in a creative way. We organised a competition on some of the themes shown in the films and the response we received from Year 7 was immense. The quality of the entries was extremely high and choosing worthy winners was a challenging task. In the end, it was Jiya who won the French comic strip competition on French school life in the 50s, as portrayed in ‘Petit Nicolas’. The German football poster competition on West Germany’s first football World Cup victory of 1954, as shown in the film ‘Das Wunder von Bern’, was won by Esme, whilst Lily won the Spanish prize for her incredibly beautiful scalp mask, inspired by the film ‘El libro de la vida’ and the Mexican tradition of celebrating the Day of the Dead.

JAPANESE AND ITALIAN

Two extracurricular clubs teaching Japanese and Italian expanded our language provision this year. Both of them were attended enthusiastically by pupils of all ages. As the organiser of the Japanese club, it was calming to see pupils dedicating their Wednesday lunch time practising Japanese Hiragana and Katakana scripts, whilst Ms WaltonGreen, who ran the Italian club, enjoyed supporting the linguistically fashionthemed club that emerged.

VIRTUAL EXCHANGES

Students of French and German took part in virtual exchange projects that ran at different points in the year. As a means to expose pupils to similarly aged native speakers, we make good use of technology to speak to pupils in France and Germany, find out about their daily lives, their school system, their likes and dislikes, exchanging videos and running common projects. Many thanks to Ms Davies and Ms Thomsen for keeping the contact alive.

NATIVE SPEAKER SUPPORT

At Colfe’s we are proud of our ethnically and linguistically diverse community. We feel strongly within the Modern Languages Department that learning any language is of immense benefit to any student. As such, we encourage and support pupils who might be speaking at home a different language to English, or might have family ties to non-English-speaking communities to engage and practise that language as often as they can. We support our native speakers of French, German and Spanish with extra sessions and advise them on early GCSE/A level entries. Additionally, we encourage speakers of non-curricular languages to take qualifications in our school and support with lessons where we can. This happens in liaison with parents and relevant stakeholders to ensure proper preparation and success. This year, we are proud to celebrate early GCSE and A level entries in German, Spanish, Chinese and Russian and wish all our students the best of luck.

MODERN LANGUAGES STRETCH AND CHALLENGE PROVISION

It was a very successful and exciting year for our pupils across all Key Stages and all 3 languages this year. We were able to teach inspiring cultural lessons, or carry out mini projects on contemporary societal issues, paired with more sophisticated language every half term for the whole academic year. Our multiple House and extracurricular competitions, as well as our weekly Stretch and Challenge Club, enabled pupils to enjoy languages even more outside of their timetabled lessons.

STRETCH AND CHALLENGE HALF TERMLY LESSONS

Our KS3 pupils enjoyed being taught about winter celebrations in exotic places such as l’Île De Ré, South America or Namibia whilst exploring topics of inclusion and diversity in the Hispanic, Francophone and Germanic worlds. Learning about literature in countries where Spanish, German and French are spoken was also one of our pupils’ highlights this year, as it really helped sparked their interest for reading in a foreign language. Our KS4 and 5 students thoroughly enjoyed diving into current societal issues through their Stretch and Challenge lessons, such as the representation of the LGBTQ+ communities in Literature and Cinema in Germany, Spain and France, but also in other countries such as Mexico

and Colombia. Being able to learn about the ever-growing rendering and delineation of the LGBTQ+ community through past and current artists in films, series, books and the Arts in general enabled and encouraged our pupils to further develop their knowledge and experience of such matters whilst enjoying learning more of the language they were studying. We also loved celebrating important women in history for International Women’s Day and learning about the unique contributions that Simone Veille made to French politics and women’s rights for example, or how Rigoberta Menchú was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1992 for her struggle to defend indigenous and human rights in her country, Venezuela.

OUR STRETCH AND CHALLENGE CLUB AND COMPETITIONS

Our Key Stage 3 Stretch and Challenge Club, which ran throughout the year during Wednesday lunchtime, was also a huge success in attracting our keenest and most able linguists to try out poetry writing and advanced translation work, as well as in providing a foundation for a diverse range of language competitions both in and out of school.

TRANSLATION: THE ANTHEA BELL PRIZE FOR YOUNG TRANSLATORS 2022

In the second term, our club extended to all pupils from all three Key Stages as well as to multiple languages such as Spanish, German, Mandarin and even Italian, so our linguist enthusiasts could develop their translating skills in preparation for the Anthea Bell Prize run by Queen’s College at Oxford University. The Anthea Bell Prize for Young Translators was created by Charlotte Ryland, founding Director of the Queen’s College Translation Exchange, and having had the pleasure of working with

Anthea Bell for many years, she was proud to have founded this prize in her honour. At Colfe’s, we were even prouder to be able to send the outstanding translations of 15 of our best pupils in multiple languages to Oxford University for judging. The competition ran across 4 levels in 5 languages, covering all year groups at secondary school from age 11 to 18. 14,000 students took part in the competition task whilst a team of 36 judges from Oxford University assessed over 3,200 entries to the competition, so we were

Ce petit avatar vient d’un jeu japonais du même nom. Créé en 1978, il a rendu fou les "geeks" du pays. Derrière cet avatar, l’idée d’Invader est de créer une passerelle entre art, quotidien et numérique à la manière d’un hacker de l’espace public. Ses personnages sont comme des virus, des envahisseurs, un moyen d’ancrer le numérique dans la réalité. Le tout chargé de sacs remplis de kilos de tesselles de céramique, une vraie performance. Toujours masqué, Invader pose son art en toute illégalité et doit ruser à chacune de ses interventions. Tous ses motifs sont préparés à l’avance et la pose se fait souvent la nuit dans des endroits difficiles d'accès, souvent haut perchés. Si Paris protège l’art de rue et poursuit les auteurs de pillages ou de dégradations, d’autres villes au contraire voient les œuvres d’Invader comme une atteinte à l'espace urbain et décident de retirer ses œuvres. Un crève-cœur pour l’artiste qui, après 20 ans de métier, continue de préférer la rue aux musées.

absolutely delighted to find out that Charlotte in Year 10 had won a commendation for her amazing French translation at level 3. She proudly received a certificate from Queen’s College as a result and being congratulated in person by our Headmaster was also an immensely proud moment for Charlotte and we were all incredibly happy for her in the ML department.

This little avatar comes from a Japanese game with the same name. Created in 1978, invader, drove the country’s “geeks” crazy. Behind this avatar, the idea of Invader is to create a bridge between art in everyday life and digital technology in the style of a hacker-of-public-space. His characters are like viruses, invaders, a way of anchoring digital technology into reality. It’s all weighed down by bags filled with kilos of small ceramic shards.

A true performance.

Always masked, Invader installs his art completely illegally and must cunningly plan each of his actions. All his patterns are prepared in advance and the installation often takes place at night in places which are very difficult to access, often extremely high up. Even though Paris protects street art and pursues the culprits of looting or damage; other cities, on the contrary, see Invader’s works as a violation to urban space and decide to remove them. A heart-shattering situation for the artist who, after 20 years of experience, continues to favour the street over museums.

Charlotte,Year 10:The Anthea Bell Prize: French, level 3: Commendation

POETRY

In the first term, our pupils were delighted to learn how to write poems in all three languages through activities devised by writer Kate Clanchy, who runs a Poetry Hub at Oxford Spires Academy in East Oxford, where pupils speak over 30 different languages. The Poetry Hub had been working with the Prismatic Translation strand of Creative Multilingualism to invite writers from around the world to lead poetry workshops with the pupils in different languages such as Polish, Swahili, Portuguese and Arabic. At Colfe’s, dozens of pupils took part in the Stretch and Challenge Poetry Club and produced very high-quality poems based on the technique of objectification of concepts such as love, envy or anger, in German, French and Spanish. Our winners were Cade and Natalie in Year 8 with their amazing French poem ‘L’envie’, whilst our runners up Sofia and Amelie wrote a beautiful piece in German, and finally Ellie’s Spanish poem ‘el amor’ came third.

1st Place

Natalie & Cade

STRETCH AND CHALLENGE HOUSE COMPETITIONS

MODERN LANGUAGES CONCERT

2nd Place

Sofia & Amélie

We ran multiple House competitions throughout the year such as the Poetry Competition previously mentioned, but we also hosted a vibrant multilingual concert in the recital hall. With the help of the Music Department and Mr Holmes who also included our music scholars in the event, we were all excited to celebrate the European Day of Languages, which happens each year on the 26th of September, through songs. Amongst our performers to name just a few, we heard a fabulous song in Arabic by Jaami in Year 13, a beautifully sung French A cappella rendition of ‘J’ai dans le Coeur’ from the animated movie ‘Le Petit Prince’ by two Year 9 pupils, Lora and Amelie, who won first place for Beardwood, and a moving German song by Orlando in Year 13.

3rd Place Ellie

THE MODERN LANGUAGES TALENT SHOW

What better way to finish the year than with a multicultural talent competition, showcasing and celebrating our pupils’ diversity, cultural heritage and linguistic talents through music, creative writing, critical and analytical thinking, cooking tutorials, and even sign language renditions. The enthusiasm from our pupils to take part in this amazing opportunity to express their talents and love for language was very heart-warming for all of us, and we were particularly moved by the outstanding performance of Charlotte in Year 8 who, after teaching herself Ukrainian and making new friendships with our new Ukrainian pupils who arrived this term, learned and recorded herself singing ‘Solovey’, the best known composition by Alexander Alexandrov Alyabyev (1787-1851), and a Ukrainian Eurovision song. In second place came Lora and Amelie (Year 9) again with a new song ‘Ma vie en Rose’ by Edith Piaf, in third place Charlotte (Year 10) with her critical essay of a French movie ‘La vie scolaire’, whilst Isis came fourth with her amazing cooking Tik Tok tutorial of French Madeleines.

Nathalie Saba, Stretch & Challenge Coordinator

Amelie and Lora Year 9: “J’ai dans le Coeur”

CLASSICS

Return to normal. Sounds simple, doesn’t it? A reversion back to the state we are most familiar with. What could be easier? Back in September, this is exactly what governments across the world required of us.

Yet hidden within this seemingly most straightforward of instructions is a fundamental misnomer: that we as individuals and as a society can remain unchanged by our experiences; that “normal” is static. Yet normal as a concept constantly evolves. The Greek philosopher Heraclitus is famed for stating that we can never step in the same river twice. So given that, in the words of Carly Simon, “I know nothing stays the same”, normal coming around again was always going to be a challenge of Heraclean proportions.

Adapting to an ever-changing normal in the wake of unprecedented circumstances is nothing new. During the Peloponnesian War, the Ancient Athenians suffered an epidemic of devastating proportions. Scholars estimate that this horrifying plague, which we now know to be typhoid, wiped out up to 35% of the Athenian population. How then could the Athenians attempt to return to any kind of normal after such an experience? At the end of the first year of the war, the general Pericles was tasked with this very dilemma. How could he possibly motivate the people of Athens to “keep calm and carry on” given all they had suffered? The answer: community spirit! Citizens of the first ever democracy, Athenians were immensely proud of their constitution and at the heart of this was the way they treated each other. Respect, tolerance and valuing each other not for their wealth or status, but for their positive contributions to the wider community were key tenets of their democracy. It was these principles which Pericles appealed to… and the crowd loved it!

At Colfe’s and in the Classics department, we understand the importance of community and taking care of one another. So, vaccine primed, masks on and Teams at the ready, we embarked on another year of uncertainty with empathy, positivity, and unwavering determination. We commenced with the reinstitution of the annual trip to Bath: the first residential at Colfe’s since Covid began. Students from Years 9 and 10 first visited the Roman fort at Caerleon, impressing us with their military drills and sword fighting technique, before staying overnight in Britain’s most famous Roman settlement. One of the best-preserved Roman sites in the world, the Baths of ancient Aquae Sulis did not disappoint and alongside their tour, our students inspired us with their skills of deduction in the artefacts workshop.

By October half term, as self-respecting Classicists, it was high time we took our students to the theatre. Our Sixth Form students attended a quirky and thoroughly enjoyable modern take of Ovid’s Metamorphoses

at Shakespeare’s Globe. The energy and humour the cast brought to the production captured the dynamism and darkly comic nature of Ovid’s whirlwind tour through mythology: a memorable treat for our students.

After Christmas, it was competition time for our Year 7s. Their mission: to create a project inspired by the bizarre and magical world of GraecoRoman mythology. We were once again overwhelmed by the standard of entries and so this year, we created three separate categories for prizes: the best artefact; the best digital entry; and the best written piece. Our special congratulations go to runners-up Damian, Immy, Sebastian and Aryan; and to our overall winners Esme (artefact), Verity (written piece) and Benjamin and Varun (digital entry).

The new year also saw our Year 8s grapple for the first time with a new language: Ancient Greek. All Year 8 students were introduced to the alphabet and explored the Greek derivatives of many English terms, culminating in a murder-mystery which challenged their transliteration skills. Following this, an impressive 43 students put themselves forward to sit the EMACT Greek certificate in recognition of their progress with the language. We would like to commend all our students who sat the certificate, and we look forward to presenting their prizes and certificates in the coming autumn.

Later in the term, the department once again had the pleasure of setting the humanities title for the Y10 essay competition: “History is written by the winners.” Students explored how historiography may be crafted to distort and mislead, with dire consequences for the way entire civilisations have been regarded for centuries to come. We particularly commend the nuanced, sophisticated arguments put together by Charlotte, Emily and Ned, and the winners Isobel and Holly for their superb academic writing.

The department’s commitment to inspire continued with a visit to the British Museum for our GCSE and Sixth Form Classicists. Immersing themselves in ancient Greek material culture, our students gained a fascinating insight into the use of temples for political propaganda; the

evolution of Greek statues from their Egyptian influence; and what pottery can tell us about gender norms, political beliefs, xenophobia and empire building. The day concluded with our attendance at the UCL Greek play: Euripides’ Electra. This apex of family dramas, where a woman persuades her long-lost brother to murder their mother for killing their father, gripped pupils from start to finish. As a play designed to question our views on morality and justice, this stimulated lively debate back in the classroom, with students fighting to win our sympathies or disdain for Electra and the notorious Clytemnestra.

At the end of another momentous year in teaching, I would like to personally thank my extraordinary colleagues in the Classics department: Mr Biggs, Ms Lehur and Mr Titcombe. Their steadfast dedication to our students and their infectious enthusiasm for the classical world are truly an inspiration. In the words of our favourite 80s philosopher, “nobody does it better.” It is therefore with great sadness that we say goodbye to Ms Lehur. Her tireless commitment to the teaching profession and her genuine care for her students will make her much missed by staff and pupils alike. We wish her all the very best for her next chapter. This is also my last year as Head of Classics at Colfe’s. It has been my absolute pleasure leading such a talented and collaborative department, but I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues as I take on my new role in the school as Assistant Head of Sixth Form (Academic). I leave the department in Mr Biggs’ highly capable hands, who no doubt will continue to lead Colfe’s Classics to ever-reaching heights. In September, we welcome two new colleagues to the team: Alicia Pettit and Scott Wakeham, whose zeal and passion for their subject will undoubtedly make them an asset to our team.

While adapting to “new normals” has and will always be an inevitable part of human existence, perhaps there is something to be learned from the Ancient Greeks. No matter what challenges we meet, if we rise to these as a community and invest in each other, together there is nothing we cannot face. So, from the Classics Department, be excellent to each other and have a wonderful summer!

Holly Batten, Head of Classics

GEOGRAPHY

I always say this, but it really has been another very successful year for Colfe’s Geography department!

In January we celebrated the success of our Year 12 geographers who achieved 100% grade A in their AS autumn examinations, the best results we have ever had. This is thanks to the students’ hard work and guidance by our talented staff. Mr Snell and Mrs McAuliffe’s expertise in physical Geography is second to none, and I would like to thank them once again for their contribution to the department.

Mr Walker, our newest member of staff and an old Colfeian, has established himself as a skilful and good-humoured member of the department and we are pleased that he is staying at Colfe’s to strengthen our already excellent team. Please have a look at his report later in this article on what he has been up to with our year 7 Geography club. I am delighted to welcome back Ms Shanks who has recently returned from her maternity leave. Pupils have asked about her return frequently during the year, a testament to her popularity. We are sadly saying goodbye to Miss Howard, who has been teaching lower school Geography for the last two years, but wish her every success in the future and hope that she will remember her little adventure to geography teaching with fondness.

It has been great to see a number of A level pupils once again choosing to study Geography or related subjects at university. Geography remains a popular degree and statistics of employability show that graduates are highly employable, ending up working in a wide range of sectors. There really has never been a more important or better time to study Geography and we wish them all the best on their journeys to the world of university Geography.

We have successfully run our full programme of GCSE Geography trips this year. In February, our GCSE pupils went to Greenwich to investigate urban change in cities, where they conducted a land use survey, environmental quality survey and practised field sketching. Geography field work would not be the same without some challenging weather and this trip was plagued by storms and lightning as well as train cancellations, but we are a hardy bunch and eventually had a great day out.

Our second GCSE trip took place during a sunnier time of year; in June we went to Reculver in Kent to enjoy our annual coastal day out. The beach was full of geography students from various schools (I felt sorry for any ‘normal’ members of the public who attempted to enjoy the beach!) but I am proud to say that our Year 10s represented the school in an exemplary manner and collected detailed data for their investigations. They managed eight beach profiles and sediment sampling across the whole beach.

The Year 7 Geography club has been a great success, with students coming along every Monday to participate in a variety of geographical projects. The Autumn term focussed on building models of volcanoes and taught students all about different types of volcanoes, as well as how eruptions occur, through the medium of Modrock, bicarbonate of soda and vinegar. The Spring term brought a focus on Human Geography and the competition to design and construct disaster-proof buildings which were then thoroughly tested by other students. After some intense competition (and even more intense testing), Matthew in 7C came out on top with a design built to withstand any storm, hurricane or earthquake that was thrown at it. Special mentions also go to David, Chris and Cooper (all 7F) for their commitment and enthusiasm throughout the year. It has been fantastic to see so many young and enthusiastic geographers coming through the club and we hope that we continue to see this enthusiasm throughout their school careers!

In the lower school, our Year 9 pupils have recently been taking part in the annual Young Geographer of the Year competition organised by the Royal Geographical Society, and the work is of such high calibre that I am very hopeful that we will get some winners this year. One of my favourite KS3 activities is the Year 8 summer holiday photo competition. We have never had so many great entries as we did last September, and after hours of deliberation, Willow’s (8A) image of a French vineyard in sunset was announced the winner.

Year 7s have been learning how to conduct geographical investigations in the summer term. They created hypotheses about the school’s microclimate and have had fun testing their theories around the grounds. It is great to see their enthusiasm and they have learnt so many skills they can use in the future.

Looking ahead to the coming academic year, our Sicily overseas expedition with the Classics department, which has been cancelled for two years, will finally (fingers crossed) happen in October of this year. We are also very excited to resume our A level residential field work in September. It is really exciting to get these trips going again as they are an important part of Geography.

Henna Nissinen, Head of Geography

I have really enjoyed geography throughout my time at Colfe’s because it has allowed me to explore a wide range of different environments, political systems and economies around the world and the links between them. Some of my most memorable moments at Colfe’s have been the Geography trips to the Azores and Iceland in Year 9 and 10, as they enabled me to experience new cultures and different physical environments, allowing me to relate my classroom theory to the real world. I now plan to study an Economics and Geography degree at the University of Leeds, which focuses on the overlap between human geography and economics, which is something that has interested me throughout sixth form.

Sophie,Year 13 geographer

Mr Walker

Geography club - Matthew’s winning building design

Reculver - sketching mass movement

Reculver - surveying the sea wall and rock armour

Reculver

Microclimate - Maggie, Emily, Max, Nico and Billy measuring wind speed and temperature

Reculver - pebble survey

Mr Snell’s transect team

HISTORY

Having taught History during a historic period of global events, it has been a compelling year in the History classrooms, as pupils have, more than ever, been able to identify transient links with past and current events.

Studying the Cold War during the events unfolding in Ukraine has been a powerful reminder to pupils that there are real stories, events, causal factors and consequences alongside the need to improve one’s exam skills. The arrival of several Ukrainian pupils was much welcomed, and we are hugely grateful to Sofi, who has been an expert in improving our own pronunciations of Eastern European names and phrases!

September saw the much delayed, but eagerly awaited, Spitfire AA810 presentation. The Aerospace Careers Programme seeks to help young people gain an insight into aerospace as a career whilst advocating the importance of STEM, as well as the legacy of PRU Spitfires and their pilots and interpreters. These ‘photographic reconnaissance pilots’ flew specially modified Spitfires fitted with cameras, and their job was to take photographs and gather intelligence. 810 was flown by Sandy Gunn, who was shot down over Norway in 1942 and was sent to Stalag Luft III - the ‘Great Escape’ camp. Sadly, Sandy was captured after tunnelling out in ‘Harry’ tunnel in March 1944 and was executed on the direct orders of Adolf Hitler. It is poignant that Sandy himself gave up his own place to study engineering at university in order to perform this vital role in the Second World War. The arrival of a genuine Spitfire ‘Merlin’ engine in the quad generated much excitement, as well as the fact that many pilots that transported Spitfires across the country were in fact women of the ATA. Huge praise to Will in Year 12 for expertly demonstrating the equipment a Spitfire pilot would have worn over his uniform during a PRU sortie! Subsequently through the project, Ms Crummay was able to take a number of RAF cadets to Leading Edge, a training centre in Oxford for future pilots. This included some team games and brain games as well as the ability to ‘land’ an A330 in a top-notch flight simulator!

The focus of the History Department this year has been to encourage pupils to think widely about interpretation, as well as the idea of ‘complex thinking.’ This means an ability to articulate and explain that different groups of people can be affected by something differently, and at different times. Whilst this is a fundamental part of the GCSE, this also allows pupils in Key Stage 3 to see History in a broader context, in so much that there is never truly one given narrative. For example, pupils in Year 7 were able to map out the different ways in which the Black Death affected the population, whilst Year 10 pupils would outline that some women may have missed the emancipation enjoyed during the Weimar era when Hitler came to power, yet more conservative women may have enjoyed the more traditionalist and gendered stereotypes revived by the Nazis. Year 11, as part of their ‘Elizabethan England’ unit, also looked at the ways in which conflict and tension with Spain affected England through a thematic approach; breaking this down into political, economic, and military; Katie, for example, was able to articulate that this tension with Spain drove military developments by way of naval modernisation, yet also made the prospect of war more likely. Which, of course, led to a need for Elizabeth’s government to raise taxes. The compulsory element of the GCSE was chosen by AQA to be Burghley’s Almshouse in Lincoln. This requires pupils to consider how the ‘historic environment’ can exemplify changes in society. In this case, the rationale behind government intervention in helping the poor. This allowed pupils to identify links between the origins of the welfare state in post-war Britain and the Elizabethan government being the first to introduce top down, national measures to tackle poverty and crime.

Year on year the numbers for History A level continue to grow, with a busy year for Year 13 who tackled the return to full examinations for the first time since Covid. Pupils chose a wide variety of coursework options; from Thatcher’s ‘provocation’ of the miner’s strike, to whether Anne Boleyn was responsible for her own downfall, to the Byzantine Empire. Juliet is

commended for astutely asserting the complexities of allocating blame to Anne Boleyn given the limited scope for a variety of evidence. Jaami’s investigation into how far the Arab Spring has helped or hindered the Middle East also demonstrates how far the past is an unending dialogue with current affairs. We wish our amazing and resilient Year 13s, who learnt much of their History A level in lockdown, all the best as they embark on their next adventures, and we especially encourage those off to study History at university to ‘keeeeeep reading!’.

In order to help Year 12 students better understand cultural and social change in Britain in their 1930-1997 unit, this year the department has introduced ‘sound bites’ to help pupils separate one decade from the next. This has often meant Room 104 can be heard to be playing Abba or The Clash when exploring developments in the 1970s, and pupils have fiercely debated whether the interpretations of Prime Ministers in The Crown align with their understanding of these people in real life.

As always, the department’s proud involvement in school-wide remembrance activities, alongside our support with the EDI Committee has allowed us to continue to audit and update our curricula. This year’s focus for remembrance was Noor Inayat Khan, a Muslim Indian who, despite being a pacifist, served with the SOE as a wireless operator. Dropped behind enemy lines in occupied France during the Second World War, she was tragically captured and interrogated at Dachau concentration camp. Eventually executed, she did not reveal any secrets. A particularly

memorable lesson taught by Mr Wheadon this year allowed pupils access to the deliberately confusing and unfair tests given to African Americans when registering to vote; this gave them an insight more pertinently into the extent to which Jim Crow Laws further segregated American society, and all teachers have worked hard this year on the task of sensitive and controversial language, and how to tackle this appropriately when studying History.

Year 7’s final term of independent research concluded with a series of exceptional projects; from books on Darwin, to matchstick aircraft. This was rounded off with the amazing Leathersellers’ trip, back after a twoyear hiatus. A walk through the City of London to the Guildhall and trip to the gallery and amphitheatre, followed by lunch in the Leathersellers’ Hall itself (complete with excellent cake!) allowed pupils to appreciate the close relationship between their school and the Company, as well as gaining a further insight into this rich history. The department is, as always, grateful to the members of staff across the school who willingly attended both days.

The department also wishes the very best of luck to Mr Deakin, who is a former Colfeian himself, and Ms Howard, who both seek to work abroad in a post-Covid world. You will be sorely missed!

Onor Crummay, Head of History

RELIGION & PHILOSOPHY

‘…the absolute absence of burden causes man to be lighter than air, to soar into heights, take leave of the earth and his earthly being, and become only half real, his movements as free as they are insignificant.’

Milan Kundera The Unbearable Lightness of Being

The existentialist underpinnings of Kundera’s novel focus on the philosophical concept of Lightness; assuming that we are incapable of achieving an afterlife, humans would feel completely free, or ‘light’. This is based on ideas from continental philosophy and Nietzsche’s doctrine of Eternal Return, where existence recurs repeatedly for all eternity. If we can escape the perceived heavy burden that is continued existence, in whatever sense, the liberation and its impact upon our lives would be enormous. There is an existentialist question here about moral responsibility, but I would like to focus on an interesting but related problem in philosophy of religion. If we perceive humans as the highest point of creation, and creation is fundamentally ‘good’, why has God created a world where certain aspects of it seem fundamentally unacceptable? If these aspects are unacceptable, what, then, is the place of faith in a world where bad things exist?

In the book of Genesis, humans are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:26-28) and are only slightly lower than God’s messengers, the angels (Psalm 8). Implicit in this is an agreement that humans are good and that creation, as a whole, is good. The problem of evil examines how evil can exist, despite the Creator being powerful and knowledgeable, thus theoretically being able to stop evil. Despite this, faith endures, and many believe that evil must exist in order for humans to have free will, as a product of the way that the universe had to be created. This means that it is still ‘good’ despite suffering. Other theologians have pointed out that other aspects of creation that are not evil exist that produce disgust, and are seemingly at odds with God’s ‘good’ creation. We are, for

example, disgusted by bodily excretions, or ‘filth’ as Lebens (2021) calls it. The philosopher Maimonides calls these a distraction from focus on prayer, and the Talmud advises a visit to the toilet to avoid this kind of distraction. Therefore, there are parts of creation, evil and otherwise, that are seemingly not ‘good’.

However, the Lurianic Kabala’s position is that it was necessary for God to create space for ‘ungodliness’; to give humans choice over what they do in the face of that which is seemingly not ‘good’. There have been many events this year and indeed there are aspects of the world that could fall within this gap of ‘ungodliness’. This is as much a philosophical issue as a theological one. In the space where things are bad, what should humans do? Is our role to close the gap between the good and bad through our actions? If we return to the first point about Lightness, the burden of existence seems a heavy one to bear. However, if we follow Calvino’s view, Lightness is about seeking balance between our duties, obligations and choices. Indeed, humans can play a role in increasing the acceptability of the world, created or not, and simultaneously seek balance. The aim of the Religion and Philosophy department is to encourage our students to not only consider questions of the religious and philosophical, but also develop the skills to develop their own answers. We would like pupils to address problems in the world with a critical mind that can engage with the complexities of existence, as complicated as that may feel at times. Whilst Nietzsche saw existence as a burden, reflecting on our place in the world without labelling it as such is an important philosophical activity for us all.

My sincerest thanks go to my department, who have made strides to support students through the moral maze this year. We are saying goodbye to Kam Puwar, and will welcome Amalée Rycroft in September. Congratulations to Lydia Wraw, who has been promoted to Head of Bramley House. Finally, thank you to all our pupils for your inspirational work this year.

Zoe Kendrick, Head of Religion & Philosophy

BUSINESS & ECONOMICS

Business-related University courses remain as popular as ever with Colfe’s School leavers. The Business A level department continues to grow, both organically with existing Colfeians, as well as externally appealing to new joiners to the school.

In total, 18 leavers in 2021 pursued Business-related higher education, whether this be in the northeast or southwest of the country, with some as returning applications following a gap year. Some chose to study with the backdrop of euphoric fans singing “You’ll never walk alone” alongside the river Mersey, whereas others chose to befriend cattle, Cornish pasties, and the subtle tones of rugby fans, as they approach Sandy Park to watch Exeter rugby. We are pleased to see that the school community is back together in person, and Business A level is back bigger and better than before.

As ever, the department is well-resourced and full of optimism, despite the post-pandemic world and the woes that have hampered our subject since the global financial crisis circa 2008. The department welcomed two new members of staff, both keen and eager teachers, who were full of enthusiasm, to join the ranks of the well-established front row of Mr Cox and Mr Poolton. The first term saw Sixth Form Business students continue to work hard on extracurricular initiatives. New relationships were forged with this year’s first ever team entering the Wharton Business School, University of Pennsylvania, investment challenge. This global competition connected our pupils with a wider community, giving them the opportunity to fuel meaningful friendships. It also provided them with the extremely useful first-hand experience of what life could be like after A levels as financial investment experts in charge of $100,000 virtual cash fund.

One student recalled ‘’We were excited to join the share investment challenge. The Wharton investment challenge was a competition based around a simulator of the stock market, something which I am passionate about and may perhaps pursue as a career. Using well-known companies and analytical data, mixed with a live trading platform, meant our teams always had our fingers on the pulse. Our strategy was to prioritise trades in the tech industry, which at the time in the real world was returning high yields with the rebranding of Facebook and release of new Apple products. We predominantly invested into Goldman Sachs, being a stable stock.’’

Despite a Business trip to Shepherd Neame in Faversham, Kent and Bexley Brewery in Erith, Kent being cancelled due to Covid restrictions,

students maintained their engagement with the subject outside of the classroom. The second term saw the advent of twilight taster courses for our Lower and Upper Sixth pupils hosted by the Lancaster Management School, Lancaster University. Lancaster University Management School has been running business masterclasses for over ten years as part of its business engagement programmes and this was the second year that we were invited to join them.

One student reflected ‘’The masterclass sessions on various aspects of business from Lancaster University were extremely valuable and a useful learning experience. My favourite class that I attended discussed the importance of the location of a business, and how design and aesthetics play a huge part in attracting potential consumers. It even looked at the unique and personally designed bathrooms in high end restaurants and hotels and how a luxurious experience potentially adds value to the business. I also learnt some information on the importance of marketing reflecting on a brand’s image and I attended an insightful masterclass on valuing assets. I really enjoyed these talks and found out a lot about more topics, which has consolidated and furthered my in-class studies.’’

In the final term, the departing Upper Sixth students faced their final 3 hour examination for Business. Despite the disruption to their learning, they have demonstrated great resilience and flexibility during Remote Learning over the past two years. The huge variety of discussions, lesson content and opportunities provided to our Upper Sixth are essential in highlighting the extent to which Business A level will have an impact upon their daily lives. We hope that, as they depart Colfe’s School, they look forward to delving further into the exciting world of commerce next year and beyond.

Mike Cox, Master in charge of Business

MUSIC

September 2021 saw something of a return to normality for our busy department. After successfully negotiating the challenges of single year group ensembles during the pandemic, it was a relief to return to our regular calendar of vertically mixed ensembles.

The success of our extracurricular programme is reliant on our ability to assemble groups from across all years; younger pupils

can learn from their more experienced peers and all students are able to share their instrumental and vocal specialisms across a range of musical styles and platforms. We hit the ground running with a full schedule of ensembles, including some new additions such as the Folk Ensemble and Glee Choir, and it is fair to say that we have not looked back since!

We were also delighted to welcome Juliette Barber as the new Music Administrator in September. Juliette integrated seamlessly into the department and immediately established herself as both an invaluable member of the team and a source of calm in our bustling corner of the school!

CONCERT HIGHLIGHTS

The return to a full concert programme meant a particularly busy Autumn term, as we collectively remembered what it takes to rehearse and put on concerts of a high standard whilst balancing other academic and extracurricular commitments. It was a pleasure to return to St Alfege Church, Greenwich, for our main concert of the term, collaborating once again with the Junior School to perform John Rutter’s The Sprig of Thyme. This piece, for SATB Choir and Chamber Orchestra, was selected as part of a folk-themed programme that also included English Folk Song Suite by Vaughan Williams, and a debut for the newly founded Folk Ensemble, established at the beginning of the year by Sixth Form musician, Martha (Y12). Our first major musical showcase of the academic year was an excellent opportunity to demonstrate how the musicians at Colfe’s had bounced back from 18 months of isolation, collaborating effectively to provide an enjoyable evening of exciting music. The term concluded with our annual Carol Service at St Mary’s Church, Lewisham. The theme this year was unaccompanied Medieval and Renaissance music. Splitting our forces into two equal choirs, we performed Gaudete and Rìu, Rìu, Chìu from opposing galleries to create an antiphonal texture that exploited the space to maximum effect, as composers such as Gabrieli would have done in St Mark’s Basilica, Venice!

The main musical event of the Spring term was the choir’s visit to Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge, to sing choral evensong. This performance was long overdue, having originally been planned for March 2020, only to be cancelled a matter of days before. There was a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation when we arrived, after the twoyear wait for this opportunity. Singing Bruckner’s ‘Locus Iste’ in the fading light of dusk overlooking the Grove and college gardens, was a special moment and a reminder of the power of music to transport us to other

worlds, both literally and metaphorically. In January we launched the first ‘Colfe’s Live Lounge’, a relaxed evening of acoustic covers performed in the Sixth Form common room with beanbags and mocktails to boot! The Music A level students enjoyed a very civilised trip to English National Opera to see Mozart’s Così fan tutte; whilst the dubious morality of this opera buffa is questionable at best, the production acknowledged this with tongue-in-cheek humour alongside some sublime individual performances. We wrapped up term with the Spring Concert, featuring performances from all our main ensembles, including a stirring rendition of the music from ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ by the Senior Orchestra.

Summer term brought with it a flurry of concerts in a frighteningly short space of time. The Chamber Singers travelled to central London to perform in the election day service under the musical leadership of Tim Newberry. Colfe’s singers combined with three other schools from the Leathersellers’ Federation to sing The Lord Bless You and Keep You and Stand by Me in a truly collaborative musical afternoon, which was followed by the traditional trip to Pizza Express in acknowledgement of their efforts. The final concert of the year was a suitably enjoyable affair and a fitting tribute to our departing Music staff (see below). The Choir’s performance of John Rutter’s Ukrainian Prayer was a chilling reminder of the turbulent times we still live in, as we negotiate political and social challenges in the wider community. This was counterbalanced with more optimistic and seasonal repertoire, including Gershwin’s Summertime which appeared in various guises throughout the course of the evening. In his concluding remarks, the Headmaster commented that his ‘face was hurting’ from the ‘constant grinning’ during the concert.

The orchestra perform ‘English Folk Song Suite’ by Vaughan Williams at St Alfege Church, Greenwich

Members of the senior choir perform John Rutter’s The Sprig of Thyme at St Alfege Church, Greenwich

The Folk Ensemble give their debut performance at St Alfege Church

Senior Choir performing in the Spring Concert Brass Ensemble performing in the Spring Concert

The junior and senior school choirs combine forces to perform John Rutter’s The Sprig of Thyme

Martha (Year 12), performing with the Folk Ensemble at the Spring Concert

Chamber Singers performing in the Winter Concert

Jazz Ensemble performing in the Summer Concert

The junior and senior choirs perform ‘When I Grow Up’ from Matilda the Musical in the Summer Concert

Folk Ensemble performing in the Summer Concert

HOUSE MUSIC

House Music has now officially established itself as the most popular event in the musical calendar! This year featured a record number of participants, with students from all year groups stepping forward to fight for both house points and musical bragging rights. Soloists and ensembles performed to a packed Beardwood Theatre, and despite the absence of a smoke machine (much to my personal disappointment), the atmosphere was incredible, with fervent support from pupils and staff. We welcomed back Old Colfeian and professional film and television composer, Alex Parsons, as our adjudicator. After four fantastic solo performances across a range of musical styles, Ludwig (Y10) took the individual prize for Prendergast with his expressive interpretation of Schubert’s Impromptu No. 4. The ensemble category was very keenly contested, but there could only be one winner; Prendergast’s energetic version of Teenage Dirtbag, led by Edith (Y12) clinched the ensemble Prize, and with it, the overall winners’ trophy. It was their first victory at House Music in over a decade; clearly, it pays to listen to Iron Maiden.

Prendergast celebrate their first House Music victory in over a decade!

Moses (Year 10) sings an enthusiastic rendition of ‘Teenage Dirtbag’Ned (Year 10) and Joseph (Year 10) rocking along to ‘Teenage Dirtbag’

COLFE’S YOUNG MUSICIAN OF THE YEAR 2022

Colfe’s Young Musician of the Year returned in May this year, with another accomplished crop of musicians competing across three grade categories. We were delighted to welcome back Professor Robert Saxton, retired composition tutor and fellow at Worcester College, Oxford, to adjudicate the competition. The evening began with performances from the Grades 1-4 category, featuring some of our younger musicians, followed by the Grades 5-6 category, and finishing with some of our most seasoned performers in the Grade 7+ category. The standard was incredibly high, which made for an exciting and entertaining evening of music. At the conclusion of the evening, Professor Saxton gave each competitor detailed feedback on their performances before announcing the winners. Immy (Y7) took the Grades 1-4 prize, whilst Amelie (Y9) scooped the Grades 5-6 prize. The final category was particularly fiercely fought – a showdown between two of our most accomplished Music scholars; Ludwig and Oskar (both in Y10). Ludwig’s rendition of Arabeske, Op. 18 by Schumann was played with incredible style and musical maturity, which was enough to win him the Grade 7+ category, but he was beaten to the overall victory by Oskar, who entertained the audience with his flair and poise in an animated performance of Christmas Dance by Vaughan Williams.

COLFE’S AND TRINITY LABAN CONSERVATOIRE

Our affiliation with Trinity Laban Conservatoire continues to grow from strength to strength. This year, pupils have been treated to some fantastic and diverse recitals. The standard has been consistently high; highlights included the Meridian Guitar Quartet and the Kloseley Saxophone Quartet, the latter of whom delivered a particularly eclectic programme, from Piazolla’s Histoire du Tango to an arrangement of a traditional Danish folk tune, concluding with the Cantina Band theme from ‘Star Wars’, much to the delight of our students. We hope that these talented pupils have inspired our Colfeians and wish them every success in their musical careers.

YEAR 7 & 8 INSTRUMENTAL SCHEME

As a result of the pandemic, we were unable to safely run a Year 7 Instrumental Scheme in 2020-21. We were delighted to bring back the scheme in September 2021 and decided to offer the scheme to pupils in both Year 7 and Year 8 to include those who had previously missed the chance. We took the re-launch as an opportunity to modify the scheme, reducing group sizes from four to two, so that the students involved had more direct contact time with teachers. This decision was fully vindicated by the significant rise in pupils signing up for one-to-one lessons next year, which is the highest it has ever been since the scheme started. A record number of students on the scheme also sat their ABRSM Grade 1 exams in the summer term, yielding some excellent results.

A solo oboe performance in a Year 7 & Year 8 Instrumental Scheme concert

Flautists performing in a Year 7 & Year 8 Instrumental Scheme concert

Double basses performing in the Year 7 & Year 8 Instrumental Scheme concert

Winners of Colfe’s Young Musician of the the Year and the adjudicator, Professor Robert Saxton. Pupils from left to right – Ludwig (Year 10), Oskar (Year 10) Amelie (Year 9) and Immy (Year 7)

Mr Kipling advising pupils on the Year 7 & Year 8 Instrumental Scheme

ABRSM MUSIC EXAMINATIONS

This year saw the return of in-person ABRSM exams after a combination of recorded exams and distanced live exams during the pandemic. Our students continue to enjoy considerable success, with outstanding results across all instruments and grades throughout the course of the year. Results in the summer term were particularly strong, with over 50% of students receiving a distinction. We are very grateful to our Music Administrator, Ms Barber, for overseeing the smooth running of the examination series throughout the year.

DEPARTURES FROM THE MUSIC DEPARTMENT

Several of our visiting Music teachers have departed during the course of the year to explore other opportunities in and beyond music. They have been of tremendous service to the pupils, and we thank them for their incredible contribution to the musical life of our school.

The end of the academic year also sees the departure of several academic teaching staff.

Luke Rogers leaves us to become Deputy Head at Bedford School. He is undoubtedly the most enthusiastic Music teacher I have ever encountered, and I have no doubt that he will continue to inspire the pupils at Bedford, alongside managing his new responsibilities in senior leadership. His experience and professionalism have been hugely influential in shaping the department over the past five years, including driving numbers at both GCSE and A Level. Luke has been an invaluable mentor for both Tim Newberry and me, and he will be greatly missed by the whole school.

Mel Metherell is leaving Colfe’s to take up the position of Head of Music at Donhead Preparatory School, Wimbledon. Although currently working in the Junior School, Mel gave 12 years of service to pupils in the Senior School, during which time she led a range of ensembles from Wind Band to Senior Choir, the latter of which she took on tour to Lincoln Cathedral in 2014. Her work in recent years has been pivotal in developing a stronger connection between our departments across the Junior and Senior Schools, which we hope will continue to grow in the future. We are incredibly grateful for her dedication to Music at Colfe’s and wish her every success in her new role. She will be greatly missed by students, parents, and colleagues in equal measure.

After five years at Colfe’s I will also be leaving the department to pursue a career outside of teaching. It has been a privilege to lead this department and work amongst such supportive colleagues and accomplished musicians. I know the department is in excellent hands with Tim Newberry and have no doubt he will build on our recent achievements.

POSTLUDE

The absence of concerts and live audiences last year reminded us of the key role music plays within our school community. It gave us a chance to step back and reflect on why we participate in music; the opportunity to develop valuable skills, make new friends and channel our creativity. It also reminded us how privileged we are to learn and work in a place where music is supported and valued. I hope that future cohorts will embrace the wonderful opportunities available and ensure that music continues to flourish in SE12.

Benedict Holmes, Director of Music

An inspiring Trinity Laban Recital given by the Kloseley Saxophone Quartet

The senior choir sing from the galleries of St Mary’s Church, Lewisham

The senior choir rehearse for their choral evensong performance at Fitzwilliam College Chapel, University of Cambridge

DRAMA

NOTES FROM THE DIRECTOR’S CHAIR 2022

Normality is slowly resumed! Despite starting the academic year with disruption, we have still had the opportunity to see so much student progress and success in the Drama department. Last academic year it was particularly odd teaching a practical subject online and then performing and teaching in masks, obscuring facial expressions and hindering vocal projection. However, we have seen so much young talent emerge, evolve and develop and the time has really flown by.

We have enjoyed watching Will (Year 10) in his second series of the successful Netflix show Bridgerton, this culminated in a tender scene performing opposite Jonathan Bailey. For the fifth consecutive year we have put forward students to audition for The National Youth Theatre of Great Britain. Previously representatives of the Youth Theatre have come to Colfe’s and done audition workshops with 20-30 students at our very own Beardwood Theatre. As always 5,000, young people audition for only 500 places. This year we were also hugely successful and maintained our track-record with Emeke (Year 13), Ellen (Year 10) and Maya (Year 9) gaining places on the acting courses. This means that over the last 5 years, 18 Colfe’s students have won places at NYT! We are very proud of their achievements.

I would like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to my team for all their hard work, resilience, dedication, determination and enthusiasm in the Drama department. Mrs Sutherland, Miss Westrip and I have collaborated effectively to create the best curriculum and co-curriculum provision for our students at Colfe’s, adapting to the weekly challenges thrown at us at the start of the year relating to Covid and mask wearing. It was an unsettling start to the academic year for the students, but we managed to provide online theatre “trips” for KS3 and a plethora of live theatre trips for our GCSE and A level students.

Mr Morgan, who was of great assistance on our Winter Production of ‘Grease’ and to our young GCSE sound, lighting and set candidates, passed the baton onto our new Theatre

Technician, Mr Peters, who has continued to provide an excellent Technical Theatre Club and create an aesthetically pleasing set for our production of ‘Into the Woods’. This was our tribute to Sondheim. Over 70 students in Years 7 to 10 auditioned for our production and we featured approximately 40 pupils playing characters and ensemble roles. 14 pupils from Years 7 to 13, including Technical Theatre Club members, helped backstage. They all deserve praise for their hard work and dedication. It has been an absolute joy to work with such a fantastic group of young talented pupils and teachers both on and off the stage. It was quite emotional because both ‘Grease’ and ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ were performed under Covid regulations and this was the first large scale production where we could have a full capacity audience, sans masks.

In addition to these productions, we also held GCSE and A level performance evenings which ranged from devised pieces to scripted extracts. Consequently, every Drama and Theatre Studies student in Years 10 to 13 has had at least one opportunity to perform, even if we weren’t able to have a parental audience. ‘Dealing with Clair, ‘Attempts on Her Life‘, ‘Memory of Water’ and ‘The Pillowman’ were the Upper School productions performed throughout the year in The Beardwood Theatre. The latter were the final performances for our outgoing Year 13. We look back with nostalgia at the leading roles they played over the last 7 years in School of Rock, Romeo and Juliet, Return to the Forbidden Planet and Chorus of Disapproval and the various Summer and Easter schools. Goodbye to Year 11s and 13s who are leaving Colfe’s, we will remember you and wish you the best of luck in your future endeavours.

At the other end of the school ,it was lovely to see the Year 7s and 8s bring in costumes, take off their masks and do group performance assessments on ‘Ernie’s Incredible Illucinations’ and ‘James and the Giant Peach’. Lower School Drama Club was well attended throughout the year. There are some talented pupils coming through the school. They have demonstrated enthusiasm, engagement, teamwork, leadership and growing confidence in performance skills.

House Drama at the start of the year in The Beardwood involved being back in person rather than online recordings due to Covid. It was wonderful to experience the teamwork and collaboration across the school, rather than being restricted by the various year group ‘bubbles’. The recent House Dance competition in collaboration with Mrs Rayes was a lovely reminder of the enthusiasm and wealth of performance talent our students have across Years 7 to 9. Both of these well-attended competitions showcased great Sixth Form leadership skills. The theme this year was ‘Diversity’, and we were pleasantly surprised at the high standard of the young dancers coming through in the group and solo pieces.

In addition to my department who have provided our students with high-quality experiences, opportunities and unique memories, our LAMDA co-ordinator, Miss Robinson, has taught sessions in acting, public speaking and musical theatre to students ranging from Years 7 to 13. Last half term, 50 students took part in the LAMDA Showcase to a full house of parents, friends and teachers. Two days later, over 100 students took their examinations with five visiting examiners across five rooms. We wish them the very best for their results which will come out at the end of summer. Sadly, Miss Robinson will be leaving Colfe’s, but LAMDA will continue with our new addition and established LAMDA examiner Miss Harvey.

Thank you to all students who have helped backstage on technical elements such as costume, stage management, lighting, sound and make up.

I would like to extend our gratitude to Mr Morgan for the technical support he has given us over the last couple of years. Furthermore, I would like to take this opportunity to say a public thank you to Charlotte Westrip, who, like “Dorothy”, returns home to Oz after such a long time away from friends and family. Your Drama family will miss you loads!

Have a wonderful Summer Break. Natalie Maher, Director of Drama

INTO THE WOODS- SUMMER PRODUCTION- BEARDWOOD THEATRE YEAR 7-10

We presented our production of Into The Woods in June in the sweltering heat of The Beardwood Theatre. We were excited to spread a little joy after the unprecedented few years that we have all lived through. It felt like we were slowly emerging from a dream back in July 2021 with our contemporary A Midsummer Night’s Dream with a Year 9 only ‘bubble’, with a limited socially distanced teacher and student audience, for one night only. It was amazing to work with Year 11-13 on Grease last Christmas with a full band, but sadly we were unable to have an outside audience. It felt wonderful to welcome parents back into The Beardwood after such a long time. Our passion to deliver performance opportunities to our students and our determination to produce two largescale Colfe’s Musicals this year, in whatever format possible despite Covid restrictions, has been a challenge. Considering all this our production truly showed the commitment and dedication of my team and the talent and resilience of all the students involved.

Into the Woods is a musical with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, and a book by James Lapine. The musical intertwines the plots of several Brothers Grimm fairy tales, exploring the consequences of the characters’ wishes and quests. The main characters are taken from Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk, Cinderella and Rapunzel. The musical is tied together by a story involving a childless baker and his wife and their quest to begin a family, their interaction with a witch who has placed a curse on them, and their meetings with other storybook characters during their journey.

The musical was first shown in San Diego at the Old Globe Theatre and then premiered on Broadway in 1987, where it won three major Tony Awards (Best Score, Best Book, and Best Actress in a Musical). The popular musical has been produced countless times, with a US national tour, a 1990 West End production, a 1997 tenth anniversary concert, a 2002 Broadway revival and a 2010 London revival. In 2014 the Disney film adaptation, directed by Rob Marshall, was released, grossing over $213 million worldwide, and received three nominations at both the Academy Awards and the Golden Globe Awards. This year it has just seen its second Broadway revival.

Our abridged Junior version of the classic musical is being brought to life by our energetic, talented and passionate young cast who give this show a new lease of life. It has been an absolute joy to work with such an enthusiastic and hard- working group of talented students both on and off the stage. We are proud of them all.

Huge thanks must go to our new theatre technician Ross Peters for building the set, providing all things technical and making real the vision of my co-

directors Danielle Sutherland and Charlotte Westrip. I am very lucky to have such a wonderful creative Drama team. I would like to take this opportunity to say a public thank you to Charlotte Westrip, who, like “Dorothy”, returns home to Oz after such a long time away from friends and family.Your Drama family will miss you loads!

We would like to take this opportunity to thank the music department, particularly Tim Newberry, for his time and support on this production, but also Benedict Holmes for all his collaborations over the last 5 years. Big thanks to our wonderful creative costume and prop making team in the Sixth form, Caretakers, Site Team, SLT, Catering, Office and staff helpers Front of House. Natalie Maher, Director of Drama

IN THE WORDS OF THE CAST:

“Working on the Into the Woods production has been so exciting. This ranges from the songs and scenes to the costumes and lighting. It feels so professional, and the atmosphere is great because everyone is working to their maximum creative abilities to create something amazing when put together.”

Amelie,Year 9 (Cinderella)

“Starting with the audition, I loved the experience! We did drama exercises, to help maximize our potential when it came to showing off our drama skills. Vocal warm-ups, confidence exercises, and two chances to sing, which really helped get rid of our nerves! When the cast list came out, I was really happy with my part and I couldn’t wait to start rehearsals!

Rehearsals were really productive yet fun, I loved the whole thing, getting to know my character better throughout the course, and becoming closer friends with the other cast members. The teachers (and Rosie) were all super encouraging and helpful and I think that the play went really well on both nights! I’m really proud of what we achieved.”

Maria,Year 9 (Baker’s Wife)

“Being a part of the Into the Woods production has been so inspiring and such a fun experience. It’s been so exciting to act and sing in front of a live audience for once! Doing all of the vocal warm ups and acting warm ups helped me become more confident when it came to singing for the audition and actually acting and making my movements more realistic in the show. Every rehearsal was worth it as the end result was amazing. I’ve made so many new friends and talked to so many new people. Overall it has been an amazing experience.”

Tara,Year 7 (ensemble)

STUDENT ASSISTANT DIRECTOR ‘INTO THE WOODS’

“Being student assistant director of the lower school production of ‘Into the Woods’ has been a pleasure. Being a part of the creative team of the production has taught me so much about patience, communication and teamwork. Having been in many of the productions here at Colfe’s, I have found being on the directorial side extremely insightful and have learnt so much from watching the teachers bring a show to life. The development of the show from page-to-stage has been an extremely rewarding process and the gratification in the final performance was worth the hard work in rehearsals.

Being a part of ‘Into the Woods’ has been a great opportunity for me as a Sixth Former to get to know the students in the lower years. Post pandemic it has been a joy to get to know students in Years 7 to 10. There is certainly some great drama talent coming through from the Lower School and as an A level drama student they have taught me a thing or two. All the design elements of ‘Into the Woods’ have all been just as important as working with the cast and I have had such a fulfilling time helping. This experience has not only been very joyful and fun, but it has also inspired me for my future and what it possibly might hold for me from the wings.”

Rosie,Year 12

WORKING AS PART OF THE CREATIVE TEAM

Working as part of the creative team for the production of ‘Into the Woods’ was such an amazing opportunity for me as it meant I could enhance and display my skills in a similar environment to what I want to work in. Being the head hair and makeup artist for the show was exciting as I got to spend time designing the looks around the costumes. I also helped with the costumes and props, which was something I had never done before, so having this new experience was extremely helpful. Being a lover of theatre and going through the pandemic without seeing any theatre shows in the West End, it was a relief once they opened back up. After a long time of not being able to produce a school production it was enjoyable to watch the rehearsal process and quite moving to watch the show with a full audience once again.

Sonny,Year 12

GREASE - WINTER PRODUCTION

Colfe’s Drama Department presented our highly anticipated production of Grease. We wanted to spread a little joy after the unprecedented year and a half that we have all lived through. It felt like we were slowly emerging from a dream back in July with our contemporary A Midsummer Night’s Dream with a Year 9 only ‘bubble’, with a limited socially distanced teacher and student audience, for one night only…

Tickets for Grease the musical have been some of the most sought-after tickets at Colfe’s so far. The beloved film and classic show are full of sing-along songs that will have you humming and toe-tapping for days to come. After a summer romance between greaser Danny and goodie-two-shoes Sandy, the holidays come to an end and so does their love affair. Until the pair are expectedly reunited when Sandy transfers to Rydell High for senior year. It felt wonderful to be planning to welcome parents back into The Beardwood after such a long time. Sadly, the weekend before the show, Covid precaution arrangements changed and we were unable to have a parental audience!

Our passion to deliver drama to our students and our determination to produce a largescale Colfe’s Musical this year, in whatever format possible despite Covid restrictions, had been a challenge. Considering all this, our production truly shows the commitment and dedication of my team and the talent and resilience of the students involved. Grease has a score that is to die for; ‘Summer Nights’, ‘Greased Lightning’, ‘Hopelessly Devoted to You’ and ‘You’re the One That I Want’. This version of the classic musical is being brought to life by our energetic, talented and passionate young cast, who give this show a new lease of life. Grease facts:

• Originally performed in 1971 in Chicago, the 1972 New York production received 7 Tony Award nominations. In 1973, Grease would make its West End debut.

• In 1978 the smash-hit musical film of the same name was released. The film starred John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John. The soundtrack become the second best-selling soundtrack of the year and the film achieved an Academy Award nomination.

• The show has undergone many changes, modifications and iterations over the years. Changes have been made to update the show, to make it more suitable for school-age audiences, or to incorporate aspects from the film.

• The show has enjoyed numerous revivals and international productions. It returned to the West End in 1993 and again in 2007.

• Several UK tours have also taken place including one in 2017 and the current Grease UK tour.

It was an absolute joy to work with such an enthusiastic and hard-working group of talented students both on and off the stage. We are proud of you all. Huge thanks must go to Gareth Morgan for building the set, providing all things technical and making real the vision of my co-directors Danielle Sutherland and Charlotte Westrip. I am very lucky to have such a wonderful, creative Drama team.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank the music department and musicians for their time and support and for loaning us our brilliant Musical Director and rehearsal pianist, Tim Newberry. I would like to thank our choreographer, Aaron Markwell, (so very proud of my ex-pupil from a previous school). He also choreographed our 2019 Return to The Forbidden Planet production. Big thanks to Caretakers, Site Team, SLT, Music Department, Catering, Office and staff helpers Front of House

Natalie Maher, Director of Drama

A LEVEL SCRIPTED PERFORMANCES

In the Spring Term the Drama Department proudly presented our Year 13s in their final performances at Colfe’s!

Year 13

‘Memory of Water’ is a comedy written by English playwright Shelagh Stephenson, first staged at Hampstead Theatre in 1996. It won the 2000 Laurence Olivier Award for Best New Comedy by Shelagh Stephenson. Our production was performed by Zoe, Izzy and Millie with some incredibly emotive and strong performances. Their rapport and interaction showed a wide range of skills and communicated the relationships of the sisters as they sort through their deceased mother’s possessions prior to the funeral. They successfully demonstrated a plethora of emotions juxtaposing unconditional love, jealousy, anger and grief.

‘The Pillowman’ is a 2003 play by British-Irish playwright Martin McDonagh. It received its first public reading in an early version at the Finborough Theatre in 1995. It tells the tale of Katurian, a fiction writer living in a police state, who is interrogated about the gruesome content of his short stories and their similarities to a number of bizarre child murders occurring in his town. The play received the 2004 Olivier Award for Best New Play. Our students Emeke, Jack and Laurie certainly left the audience wanting more. This was a challenging piece which our students tackled in an exceptionally mature and sophisticated way. Their interpretation showed some outstanding vocal and physical skills.

We are so proud of how our A level Drama students have been resilient and adapted to the pressures of trying to complete a practical subject in school and online over the last two years. My thanks to Mrs Sutherland for collaborating with me on this project. Natalie Maher, Director of Drama

Year 12

Our Year 12s were inspired by our outgoing A level students. They did a mini performance project on the playwright Martin Crimp to prepare themselves for the upcoming Component 2 performance examination next year. Martin Crimp, born in 1956, is a local British playwright from Dartford, Kent.

Crimp is sometimes described as a practitioner of the “in-yer-face” school of contemporary British drama, although he rejects the label. He is notable for the astringency of his dialogue, a tone of emotional detachment, a bleak view of human relationships – none of his characters experience love or joy –and latterly, a concern for theatrical form and language rather than an interest in narrative.

‘Dealing with Clair’ by Martin Crimp“was a scripted piece in which myself, Rosie, George, and Emily performed. This play is about an estate agent, Clair, who mysteriously disappears. A couple, Mike and Liz, want to sell their house at the best possible price with the help of Clair. Jamie appears who stresses she wants to pay cash, but things turn strange and mysterious. Clair has gone missing. We used a naturalistic set of a living room but looked out onto the audience as if they were the garden. We used various props such as a bag, a cigarette, and a phone to communicate successfully what our characters were. We cut this long play to fit a twenty-minute window which we did successfully, still making sure the main plot was communicated well and made sense even when some parts were missing.”

Eleanor

Attempts on Her Life by Martin Crimp is at turns hilarious and shocking, a rollercoaster of twentieth century obsessions from pornography to ethnic violence and terrorism to unprotected sex. Valentina, Amelia, Matthew and Darcy looked at this controversial play and produced a mature interpretation.

Natalie Maher, Director of Drama

A LEVEL DEVISED PERFORMANCES

Year 12

For Component 1 Devising Theatre our Year 12 A level students were tasked with devising an original piece of theatre, using an extract from a chosen play as an opening stimulus. This year the students used as their stimulus for their devised piece Lisa Evans’ moving and powerful play about the joy and the heartbreak that motherhood brings to three very different mothers. ‘Once We Were Mothers’ is a contemporary play in the tradition of work by Sharman Macdonald and Charlotte Keatley in exploring inter-generational female relationships. But, while it demonstrates that motherhood is a role defined by circumstance, there was a distinct qualitative difference in the three stories it interweaves.

The task was to extract a theme, scene or character from a chosen part of this play, and, using a practitioner, devise a piece of theatre of their own. The students proved they were more than up for this task, and throughout the term-long process, experimented with various ideas around various themes. The students researched the topics, looking at documentaries, conducting personal interviews, reading articles and looking at art forms that share this theme. Months of research, experimenting the techniques of their practitioner Artaud and Berkoff, and developing storylines, resulted in poignant and fantastically executed performances, which left audience members touched and inspired by the characters and narrative. Thanks to Mrs Sutherland for collaborating on this project.

Natalie Maher, Director of Drama

In the words of ...

“In February Rosie, Valentina, myself and Darcy all worked together to create a devised piece which was inspired by our practitioner, Steven Berkoff. We began the process by making mind maps of ideas that we could use in creating our piece Berkovian style. We then developed these ideas and planned what scenes we wanted to include and how we were going to block them. We then spent the next few weeks working on blocking each scene and writing the script, which I found extremely fun as we were able to work well together creatively and create a performance that I am immensely proud of. The process, even though sometimes frustrating, taught me so much and I am so glad we had the chance to perform it in front of a small audience after the hard work that we had put into it. The Q&A at the end proved that we had successfully communicated our aims and intentions to the audience.” Emily, Year 12

YEAR 11 GCSE DRAMA PERFORMANCES

It has been fantastic to make the gradual return to post-Covid normality in curricular Drama this year, and it’s been a significantly triumphant return with this year’s Year 11s and their performance pieces. The two classes of Year 11s should be especially commended as their GCSE years were sometimes fraught with lockdowns, isolations and various obstacles as they endeavoured to develop their pieces for the stage (and for assessment), but like true thespians they took up the mantra ‘the show must go on’ and persevered throughout their GCSE and developed wonderful performances for their Components One and Two in GCSE Drama.

Devised Theatre: Pupils had the choice of the following stimuli as a starting point for their devised theatre:

• “Run to the fire; don’t hide from it” - Meg Whitman quote

• ‘Starz in their Eyes’ - song by Just Jack

• “Because...it all decays! All your precious memories...everything you are...everything you think you are...you cannot hang onto it ...it fades ...until there is just a vague smudge of what you were”. Quote from the play ‘100’.

• A pop-art style painting

Students used their chosen stimulus, as well as a theatre practitioner to devise a piece of drama for performance that uses the practitioner’s techniques in an interesting way, and which creatively interprets the themes suggested by the stimulus.

YEAR 11 GCSE DRAMA PERFORMANCES

Year 11 Drama GCSE students worked incredibly hard to develop their scripted theatre pieces for assessed performance, resulting in impactful and impressive pieces across each group. The entire evening of performances highlighted just how far each student had developed in Drama throughout their time at Colfe’s. Each group transformed the Beardwood Theatre to incorporate their play’s necessary scenery and props, and it was great to have several Sound Design GCSE candidates this year providing powerful sound effects and underscoring to each group performance.

The themes explored in these performances ranged from the dangers of social media, mental health, family relationships and the trials and tribulations of nightclub workers. The plays they chose included Leaves (Lucy Caldwell), Chatroom (Enda Walsh), Bouncers (John Godber) and Things I Know to be True (Andrew Bovell) – all fantastic and dynamic contemporary plays.

We loved seeing the Year 11s take ownership of each of their GCSE performances, and it was quite thrilling to have the Beardwood back to live audiences for their Component Two. The Drama Department wish the GCSE Drama students all the best as they go forward into their A levels!

Charlotte Westrip

YEAR 10 GCSE DEVISED PERFORMANCES

Despite obvious hurdles, this year’s cohort of Year 10 GCSE Devised pieces were of an outstanding quality. For Component One of their Drama GCSE, students are given a list of different stimuli including quotes, songs and visual images, to which they are to respond with potential ideas and themes before devising a piece of theatre. As they devise these pieces, students are to engage with and use the workings of a theatre practitioner; this year the cohort devised pieces in the style of either Frantic Assembly or Bertolt Brecht.

Pupils have worked tirelessly and with absolute drive on these pieces. All GCSE Drama students must be highly commended for the resilience and enthusiasm with which they approached this process; their hard work came to fruition on stage where a small but supportive socially distanced audience were able to enjoy the pieces. This cohort had one sound candidate, one lighting candidate and one set design candidate, which enriched the body of work on offer.

LOWER SCHOOL DRAMA CLUB

Drama club this year has been attended by Year 7 pupils. It has served as an excellent platform for those who want to develop existing performance skills, build confidence, make new friends and most of all have fun. Our regular attendees have benefited from devising mini performances based on well-known fairy tales, improvisation games and working on short scripts. A new addition to Drama club this year was our A level Drama student ambassadors who worked closely with Mrs Sutherland, Ms Maher and Miss Westrip to provide workshop plans that were delivered each week in Drama Club. The Year 7s enjoyed this so much and formed excellent relationships with each other.

THREE PUPILS FROM COLFE’S SENIOR SCHOOL HAVE BEEN INVITED TO JOIN THE HIGHLY PRESTIGIOUS NATIONAL YOUTH THEATRE OF GREAT BRITAIN.

I am pleased to announce that Emeka (Year 13), Ellen (Year 10) and Maya (Year 9) have secured places in the highly competitive National Youth Theatre of Great Britain.

This is a huge achievement as over 5,000 students apply each year for just 500 places. This year we were able to resume the in-person energetic workshop with NYT practitioners in The Beardwood as we have done in the past prior to Covid restrictions.

We are incredibly proud of all our students who auditioned this year. Taking part in the audition process alone is an exciting experience, as it is an opportunity to work with an industry professional. Often it takes hard grit, determination and resilience to get through a round of auditions. The National Youth Theatre is a wonderful steppingstone for our ambitious and talented students.

Previously in 2021, one Colfe’s student was invited to join the NYT, three students in 2020, five students the year before and six students the year before that. This is testament to the hard work that my team and technician have put into preparing our students and nurturing their talent both onstage and backstage. This means that over the last five years 18 Colfe’s students have become members of NYT as both actors and theatre technicians. This is quite a track record.

“I was overjoyed to get a place at NYT.”

“I’m looking forward to taking part in the workshops over Summer.”

“I’d like to say a big thank you to Ms Maher for helping me in the online preparation sessions.”

One of our Sixth Form students and outgoing School Captain, Millie said “Once you get into the National Youth Theatre, you are a member until your mid-20s, so I feel really lucky and grateful to have been given a place!”

Many of our older NYT members are currently auditioning for upcoming NYT productions and I am looking forward to reporting on their successes.

Natalie Maher, Director of Drama

LAMDA YEAR REVIEW AND PERFORMANCE EVENING

Over 100 students had lessons this year. Studying Acting, Verse and Prose, Public Speaking, Musical Theatre and Shakespeare Syllabus. Over 50 students were involved in the LAMDA showcase performance evening. It was a big and brave thing to perform for the first time in a few years to a full 130-capacity Beardwood Theatre. Some of these students haven’t even had the chance to act in an end of Year 6 play! I am extremely proud of them all. They all brought their own interpretations and performed a mixture of Lamda scripts and their own choice of scripts. The sharing evening was presented tremendously in a performance format by two Year 7 LAMDA students and one Year 10 LAMDA student.

I have loved working with every one of these students, each one developing their skills in communication, performance and confidence over the course of the year. They have worked hard and enjoyed the creative challenge with such a range of ages and grades. We had four examiners over two days for our Lamda exams. The students were enthusiastic and worked really hard towards their exam pieces. It was especially exciting for those taking their first grade or last Grade 8 Lamda exam.

We are always overwhelmed and thrilled to see so many students wanting to take part in our continued and varied LAMDA sessions. Not only are the sessions good for budding actors and performers to hone their skills, but they also offer an opportunity for pupils to grow in confidence, develop presentation and communication skills, creative problem solving, discipline, text study or own writing skills and develop their creativity in a welcoming and friendly environment. Lamda helps students in every aspect of life to be confident presenting in any situation, with strong voice, body language and engagement with others.

I look forward to receiving the results for our summer exams. And I know a couple of students will be taking Lamda exams at the public centre this Year.

In the words of a student:

“The LAMDA showcase was a way for students to perform either a monologue or a duologue to parents. This was especially important as it was the first time doing the LAMDA showcase after Covid with no masks, so students were able to show parents their final LAMDA pieces before doing the exam. I presented the LAMDA show case in Act One using the monologue ‘Goodbye Charles’ by Gabriel David in the character of Jill, to connect each monologue or duologue together making the performance flow like one story. Izzy and Natalie in Year 8 presented Act 2, making sure the performance still flowed as one story. I look forward to doing my Grade 5 LAMDA exam next year and performing in another LAMDA showcase.” Emerson

On a personal note, I would like to express my thanks to all the students for their passion and hard work. I have truly enjoyed teaching you all this year. I am proud of you. However, I am sad to be saying goodbye to Colfe’s School. Over the last year as LAMDA coordinator, I have had the privilege of working with such incredibly talented young performers, and wonderful young people, whom I have seen grow in confidence and ability. It has also been an honour to work with such a strong and inspiring team in the Drama Department. Ms Maher, Mrs Sutherland, Miss Westrip, Mr Morgan and Mr Peters have all been key to making the weekly LAMDA sessions and the exam run smoothly and successfully. I will miss being a part of this incredibly talented team, both as colleagues and as friends. I know the department will continue to inspire each new generation of students with the wonderful Drama opportunities offered at Colfe’s School.

I am delighted to say that a new LAMDA coordinator has already been appointed, and I know she is looking forward to working with everyone to continue your Lamda journey over the years. She will continue to develop and expand the increasingly popular LAMDA Syllabus study at Colfe’s School and will continue to develop these lovely and talented young performers. I wish every student all the success in their future studies and to keep enjoying expressing yourself through Lamda in life. I believe in you and am so grateful to have been a part of your journey.

Emma Robinson, LAMDA Coordinator

TECHNICAL THEATRE CLUB

I started my role as Theatre Technician at Colfe’s in the summer term of this year. I took over from Gareth Morgan, who is very popular with students and staff alike and an incredibly skilled technician to boot. Certainly some big shoes to fill!

Thankfully, I had his talents on hand to assist with the Year 10 GCSE Devised Performances that happened at the start of Summer Term. Within the Year 10 Drama GCSE cohort is one lighting, one sound, and one set candidate, covering a huge array of technical disciplines. Using these elements, we found ourselves transported from a domestic family home setting in one piece, to the front lines of World War 2 in another. The students worked hard on their own performances, but also supported the other groups and helped to put away and set up for the next group as performances were back-to-back, helping the event run as smoothly as it did. It was a great insight into their work ethic and respect for their peers, and it was a pleasure to support Year 10 with their pieces and work alongside Mr Morgan, which we have not done since we were at university together.

I have been hugely impressed by the level of involvement pupils have in the school with the technical elements of theatre and their contribution to the school productions. In previous schools I have worked at, students were not given the trust, responsibility, or opportunity to be involved to the same degree that they are here at Colfe’s. Being able to take the technical pathway for GCSE Drama is something also rarely seen in schools. All of this culminates in a highly proficient team of young technicians, many of which are operating equipment and software that I myself did not have the opportunity to do until I started university. With my later start in the school calendar, I relied heavily on their experience to help put on the summer show, and they certainly delivered. Our summer show Into the Woods Jr. was a huge success, as we were able to fill the Beardwood Theatre with an audience once again. Over the course of preparing for the production and the performances themselves, I had nearly 20 students from Year 7 to Year 12 assisting in a variety of ways; ranging from lighting & sound to costume, hair & makeup. Being my first show at Colfe’s and joining partway through the rehearsal period, the students’ knowledge and experience with how shows are run in the space was instrumental to bring the production to life. We saw the Beardwood transform into a woodland setting, with vines creeping into the foyer which was set dressed beautifully by the production team. The wonderful musical by Sondheim (made all the more poignant by his sad passing

earlier this year) is full of beautiful songs and sees us moving from one location to another as we follow the threads of several different fairy tale characters. This provides quite the challenge to the technical team who had to juggle a multitude of lighting and sound cues as well as every single head mic we had at our disposal (and a few that still had to be shared). Being able to trust the team to run these facets of the performance whilst I focused on other backstage elements is a credit to their professionalism and their adeptness at operating the various equipment. Whilst they treated their roles very seriously, it was also fantastic to see how much fun they were having in the process too.

I’d like to thank all the students and staff for helping to make my start here at Colfe’s as smooth as it could be and also so enjoyable. Special thanks in particular go to the rest of the wonderful Drama Department who have shown nothing but endless support, Mr Bassett who has also provided excellent advice and wisdom in regards to the many eclectic events that happen in this special place, and to Mr Morgan who left me such a strong foundation to work from as we continue to build and develop our technical and backstage capabilities. I look forward to training up our next generation of technicians in Technical Theatre Club as our core Year 10 group progress to the upper school show in the Autumn Term, and supporting our hardworking and talented students in their future projects.

A LEVEL THEATRE TRIP

Constellations, Vaudeville Theatre

This was our first school theatre trip post-Covid in September 2021.

Constellations received a West End revival at the Vaudeville Theatre from June to September 2021, produced by the Donmar Warehouse. Students were expected to research the production and read theatre reviews prior to embarking on the trip. This production, written by Nick Payne, was directed by Michael Longhurst. According to the Evening Standard and our collective opinion it was 5 star - “ingenious and beautiful, truly stellar”.

Unlike the original production at The Royal Court, this production featured four new casts in rotation: Sheila Atim and Ivanno Jeremiah, Peter Capaldi and Zoë Wanamaker, Anna Maxwell Martin and Chris O’Dowd, Omari Douglas and Russell Tovey. We saw the latter and students wrote some excellent live theatre evaluations after this trip discussing questions such as ‘Theatre in the 21st century needs to relate to a wide range of people in order to survive” and “Actors are nothing without designers”.

Natalie Maher, Director of Drama

OTHER THEATRE TRIPS

In November we took Year 11 GCSE Drama students to see ‘The Ocean at the End of the Lane’ at the Duke of York’s Theatre. Originally sold- out at the National Theatre, Neil Gaiman’s best-selling novel was brought to life in this modern myth, where the power of imagination and storytelling transported audiences on a spellbinding and spectacular adventure, featuring stunning set design and puppetry.

In December Year 11 GCSE Drama students saw ‘The Tempest’ at the Jermyn Street Theatre. This was their set text for Section A of the Component 3 written examination.

Year 13 Drama students went to see ‘Memory of Water’ by Shelagh Stephenson, directed by Alice Hamilton, at the Hampstead Theatre. The production related to one of the group’s Component 2 pieces. The other group used this as a creative enrichment experience and practiced their Component 3 Live Evaluation of Theatre examination essay answers post visit.

ROYAL COURT THEATRE TRIP OCTOBER 2021

Our Year 12 A level Drama students went to see two productions - ‘What If If Only’, a new short 20-minute play by Caryl Churchill and` ‘Is God Is’ by Alesha Harris, 90 mins with no interval, both at the Jerwood Theatre Downstairs at The Royal Court Theatre, Sloane Square, London.

Theatres reopened and we could continue to provide creative enrichment experiences for our students again. This was a curriculum trip relating to the Component 3 Live Evaluation of Theatre examination essay. Post visit we discussed and evaluated both productions and looked at examination questions and exemplar answers.

What students took away from the visit:

“At the Royal Court Theatre, we watched two productions: ‘Is God Is’ and ‘What If If Only.’ Both plays were unlike anything I had ever seen before. ‘What If If Only’ was significantly short and it was overly simplistic. I preferred ‘Is God Is’ as I could connect to the characters due to the play’s longer length. The play was also very accessible to all audience members as they had a supporting screen with subtitles. I really enjoyed both productions and thought they were impactful”. Darcy, Year 12

“At the Royal Court Theatre, we went to go see ‘Is God is’ and ‘What if if only’, both of which were extremely interesting and philosophical causing me to question things about life and also theatre. ‘What if if only’ took place in a white box and followed an old woman and a man thinking about time and following his trauma about his wife dying. As a member of the audience, I was captivated, and it kept me wondering about the way time works and how slim the chances are that I am here now with the life I have today. ‘Is God is’ being also a very unique play as it followed two twin girls on a quest to find out why they had been burned at birth. This had many plot twists, and I never knew what was going to happen next. Although a bit shocking at times, this play still kept me intrigued throughout”. Emily, Year 12

“Is God is” showed the story of two sisters who were on a mission to find their dad. The play was like nothing else I had seen before, and it was an interesting and exciting performance to watch as the actors were running through the audience making me feel very engaged and on the edge of my seat. We also went to see “What if if only” which was a short 20-minute play which showed different voices in a man’s head after his wife died. I was very intrigued by this play and the set was a blank white box, which meant that the use of lighting was used very effectively to engage the audience.” Valentina, Year 12

“We were lucky enough to watch two plays at the Royal Court Theatre, ‘Is God Is’ and ‘What If If Only’. ‘Is God Is’ tells the story of twins that think their mother is dead but soon find out this is not true; they go on a mission. to avenge their past. ‘What If If Only’ was a short play where a man got presented by a ghost after the traumatic experience of him losing his wife. The use of such a bare set allowed the audience to connect with the characters more, which helped prove that props and extravagant design elements are not always necessary to create an interesting and captivating play.” Eleanor, Year 12

“On October 13th we went to see Alesha Harris’s play ‘Is God Is?’. The play was stylised with a hip-hop soundtrack and was modern in its slick set design. This was my first visit at the Royal Court Theatre and its proscenium arch staging allowed for a “window” into the complex lives of the characters. My favourite moment was ‘new’ wife’s monologue as it was comedic and engaging due to her characterisation resonating with me as an audience member.” Rosie, Year 12

SMALL ISLAND

National Theatre, Olivier Theatre

A level – Year 12 and 13 trip

In February we took our Year 12 and 13 A level Drama students to see ‘Small Island’. This acclaimed, five-star production of Andrea Levy’s prize-winning novel returned to The National Theatre and we went to the first night preview. What the A level students thought...

“Small Island is a play about a woman named Hortense and her husband, Gilbert, immigrating to Britain after the second world war. They rent a room in Queenie and her husband, Bernard’s, house. They move to Britain to hopefully live a better life full of opportunities and success. However, this is not the case. When in England they face racism and abuse from most of the people they meet including Bernard. Both couples’ lives become intertwined, and all the character have their own challenges to overcome throughout the play. I really enjoyed this production and found it very moving. As a young audience member, I found it very impactful as it was an effective way to convey a strong message that people need to hear and learn about”. Darcy, Year 12

“We went to the National Theatre to see ‘Small Island’, which was a play that not only entertained me throughout, but also taught me a lot about Britain in the 1940s and the Windrush generation. I thought the play was extremely well crafted and a joy to watch, as each design element of the play worked well with each other, and the actors truly embodied their roles. As a young audience member, I learned so much from the play and since I do history A level, it really helped me learn a wider context to the war and helped me understand how people were treated on a personal level. I would definitely recommend the play to a friend or to anyone who wanted to watch a touching story about racism and the struggle of the wartime generation”.

Emily, Year 12

“On the 24th February Sixth Form drama students saw The National Theatre’s ‘Small Island’. Rufus Norris’ production was extremely captivating seeing as it dealt thematically with racism in post-war Britain and the political conflicts amidst the setting of a ravaged Britain.

As an audience member, the play took me through a wave of emotion from laughter to tears. However, the underlining important message of “the necessity of equality for all” struck a chord with me. Mirren Mack’s character, Queenie, was a personal favourite of mine as her strong-willed characterisation inspired me as a young woman.” Rosie, Year 12

“In February, we saw the production of ‘Small Island’ at The National Theatre. This play is about two couples with their own hopes for the future, but they are faced with racism and discrimination set in the 1940s. This play creates a rollercoaster of emotions and I believe it to be very eye opening for the audience. This play communicated such an important message that I believe anyone of any age should hear. The striking design elements of this play helped convey this strong, powerful message. Whilst creating a comedic factor, the cast was extremely successful in communicating the feelings of anger and frustration to the audience.” Eleanor, Year 12

“Small Island depicts the story of the soldiers coming from Jamaica to England to fight during World War 2. I enjoyed this play very much as the contrast between England and Jamaica was shown very effectively through the use of lighting and the cyclorama which I loved as it showed the different cultures and characters in different countries. The play educated me on racism and how people were treated” Valentina, Year 12

SUMMER SCHOOL – MATILDA

For the past nine years the Drama Department at Colfe’s has run a hugely popular and successful performing arts summer school in the first week of the summer holidays. This year the trend continued as 32 students from both the Junior and Senior School joined together to stage the hit musical Matilda. Learning a whole show from scratch in just 5 days is a challenge, but one the students met head on with enthusiasm, tackling Tim Minchin’s deceptively difficult melodies and tongue twisting lyrics with great gusto. Leading the cast as the titular character was Rose, who filled the role with a great sense of naughtiness and a fabulous singing voice. Her antagonist was the equally talented Naima, who filled the stage with a commanding presence and sense of wicked glee as she forced Michael as Bruce Bogtrotter to eat an oversized chocolate cake before sending him to the chokey. The Beardwood Theatre was packed on the Friday evening at the end of the week, with friends and family who laughed, clapped and cheered the enthusiastic efforts of the cast and crew. It was a joy for the team from RMarkable Arts, led by ex-Colfe’s drama teacher, Richard Gregg, to work with the students, many of whom return year after year to make this an exciting part of the annual performing arts calendar at Colfe’s. Look out for details of next year’s scheme at the start of the year.

Richard Gregg, Email - R’Markable Arts rmarkablearts@outlook.com

THEATRE PRACTITIONER WORKSHOPS

Frantic Assembly Workshop GCSE & A Level and Punchdrunk Theatre A Level

After so many physical constraints over the past year I arranged for Frantic Assembly, an internationally renowned theatre company, to come into school and run 2hour workshops for our Year 10, 11, 12 and 13 GCSE & A level drama students in October in The Beardwood Theatre. The workshop is an excellent opportunity for students to develop their devising skills and explore different approaches to creating new work. It provided students with a bank of skills to take away and use in their formal Component 1 Devising practical coursework and in their Component 2 performances.

Frantic Assembly promotes the physical confidence students need to be brave and bold with the material they are making. It uses production specific exercises from shows like ‘Lovesong’, ‘Stockholm’, ‘Beautiful Burnout’ and ‘Othello’. The practitioner instructed students on the various devising processes used by Frantic Assembly when working collaboratively to produce multi-disciplined performance, which transferred perfectly to their own productions. It addressed the skills required for students to enhance their abilities in the areas of performance, movement, directing and critical analysis including the opportunity to workshop movement into meaning.

Overall, the work promoted communication, collaboration and team building. Participation in the workshop was a significant opportunity to gain practical insight into the workings of theatre practitioners who are part of the GCSE & A level curriculum.

“It has been wonderful seeing our enthusiastic drama students interacting with dynamic theatre practitioners in The Beardwood once again.”

Natalie Maher, Director of Drama

Student responses to Frantic Assembly What We Learnt...

“We did a workshop with the company ‘Frantic Assembly’, and it helped me learn a lot about new ideas and techniques. We looked at different lifts and ways to communicate through movement which I found extremely useful and even included some of these techniques in my A-level devised piece, which, even though our chosen practitioner was Berkoff, still helped us make our piece flow. I had lots of fun and learned how to think of theatre in an innovative way following ideas about movement”. Emily, Year 12

“In the Frantic Assembly workshop, we started with a warm-up exercise inspired by the 2010 Frantic Assembly production of ‘Beautiful Burnout’ by Bryony Lavery. The play inspired the boxing-like warm-up. Although it was physically challenging, I connected with the pulses in the music, and this helped me to concentrate. In the workshop we learnt lifts, such as the balancing lift which looked stylised and choregraphed. We also explored the squeeze exercise which helps create a base of movement and choreography in the initial stages of blocking which one could add to with lifts/dialogue, props and pauses; to create a typical Frantic Assembly movement sequence”. Rosie, Year 12

“The Frantic Assembly workshop was a very active and inclusive workshop where we were taught how to perform lifts and incorporate them into a piece of theatre. We performed to music to get more into the feel of the movements and relate them to the music as we told stories. I really enjoyed this workshop as it allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of Frantic Assembly’s practices and be instructed by someone who works with the company to get first-hand information.” Valentina, Year 12

“In the Frantic Assembly workshop, we tried many different techniques, building up and layering them to make a short piece in pairs, purely movement based. I worked with Amelia where ours was completely centred round a chair with the phrase ‘needing them to stay’. We learned how to communicate this without speech, just movement using Frantic Assembly techniques.” Eleanor, Year 12

PUNCHDRUNK THEATRE COMPANY ENRICHMENT WORKSHOP

We arranged for Punchdrunk, an internationally renowned theatre company, to send an associate to come into school and do a workshop for our Year 12 and 13 A level drama students in November in The Beardwood Theatre. The workshop was an excellent opportunity for students to develop their devising skills and explore different approaches to creating new work.

Using Punchdrunk’s unique site-sympathetic storytelling style, students developed their performance skills in response to sound and source material. Thus it was vital for students to develop their physical and non-verbal devising skills, while exploring the potential of site-sympathetic theatre. Punchdrunk is currently one of the influential theatre practitioners that students can choose to study on the A level Drama and Theatre syllabus. Overall, the work promoted creativity, communication, collaboration and team building. Participation in the workshop was an exciting and significant opportunity to gain practical insight into the workings of theatre practitioners who are part of the A level curriculum.

“We were very lucky to have a workshop with the British Theatre Company, ‘PunchDrunk’, founded in 2000 by Felix Barrett. The company aim to create theatre that is immersive, with its multi-levelled stage called a ‘radical promenade’. In the workshop I learnt that in ‘Immersive Theatre’ the audience find themselves absorbed in another world. With this knowledge we approached a task. We were given a stimulus and had to create a three-part free frame with movement between with the intention of communicating a story without dialogue. This exercise allowed me to understand ‘Punch-drunk’s style in a practical way from an actor’s perspective”. Rosie, Year 12

“The second workshop was by Punchdrunk which we had never worked with before, so it was exciting to learn about their ideas and how they work. We worked as a group creating a performance which went all around the drama building to get the feel of Punchdrunk and explore different environments for different scenes so we could use each space individually and relate them to do specific scenes”. Valentina

“Our Punchdrunk workshop was centred around getting to know the space. We explored every part of the theatre and at the end produced our own site-specific performance using the techniques we had learned”. Eleanor, Year 12

“Within both workshops we played warm up games then practiced exercises and techniques that the company uses in groups. It was a fantastic opportunity to be able to work with members of the company. After the workshop I felt much more confident with my knowledge of the practitioners/ companies and felt comfortable putting their techniques into practice”. Darcy, Year 12

A LEVEL ART

GCSE ART

DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY

Pupils have been very busy in the Design & Technology department this year. One Year 7 pupil reflects on their first year exploring the subject:

“My experience of Design & Technology in Year 7 has been brilliant. I enjoy it because of the projects, the tools and processes that come with it. I have never finished a project without a feeling of accomplishment and having learnt something new. This year was no different. The project was called “wooden speaker” and included building a wooden box casing and soldering all the working parts together. I chose the colour red for the front acrylic part and I was so pleased with my outcome. It has pride of place in my bedroom. During this project, I learnt about how to use a range of tools and machinery in the workshop as well as the safety considerations. At the time I am writing this, we are also currently in the process of unravelling the great mystery of how to get an egg from a tabletop to the floor without it cracking; with the promise of a prize for the team that does it best.”

YEAR 8: JULIAN OPIE TOTE BAG

YEAR 7: PENCIL CASE PROJECT

YEAR 11 DESIGN TECHNOLOGY COURSE

The Year 11 Design technology course offers an invigorating, challenging and exciting experience for pupils. It has pushed their creativity and imagination as well as skills in designing for their client and considering their needs. This year the students had three possible briefs which they could choose from, and although they did not complete as much making as normal years, the students enjoyed the protypes they produced. Here, one pupil reflects:

“When I began my coursework in Year 11, I thought it would be very straightforward and simple. However, as the weeks and months progressed, I came across many challenges. I had to change existing ideas if they did not work out well and constantly evaluate and refine the designs I came up with. I received so much help and guidance from the teachers to do this. During the research stage, I had to brainstorm many possible ideas and choose the best as my final design. I experimented with various joints, manufacturing processes and materials. I had to research my clients needs, ensuring my design was relevant to them. Next, I had to make many prototypes of designs to see how they would really look like. The dimensions of my product were based on proportions to ensure it worked as well as developing my computer aided design skills.

There are so many resources in the D&T department to use; lots of machines, from a 3-D printer to a wood lathe, and materials so my design could be manufactured incredibly well. Teachers were always there to help me and brilliant progress was made with every passing week. My protype and coursework were successful, and I am proud of my achievements. A lot of my success was thanks to the excellent support and working in a team”.

YEAR 9 LINO CUTTING USING INKS TO PRINT

Repeat Patterns

A LEVEL DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY

Over the last two years, A level students have been encouraged to take design risks, show innovation and work collaboratively with others, including users and experts, to develop and refine their design skill set. Students have drawn on knowledge from other subject areas too, such as science and maths, to inform design decisions and apply these skills when making their NEA project. Our students have had the freedom of being able to tailor design and make projects to their own strengths and interests, allowing them more control over the topics they would like to cover in order to prepare them for their future career path. This year we have enjoyed watching our Year 13 students develop and supporting them with their projects, where they have been designing for a client of their own choice.

LEGO DESIGN CLUB

The Lego design club is open to Year 7 students. Throughout the year they have been busy with different challenges and tasks involved. We are pleased that David is our new Design technology rep. The Club runs during lunchtimes and has been a huge success. The sessions are primarily to help interested pupils and we look forward to seeing what club he is going to set up in 2022 - 2023.

Charlotte Cox, Head of Design & Technology

Angelina Fibres

Weaving Samples

Lino cutting

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

OVERVIEW FROM THE DIRECTOR OF SPORT

2021-2022 was busy, exciting and most rewarding. After a reduction in competitive opportunities over the past few years, sport was back with a bang!

The Autumn Term saw the launch of the BTEC Sport and Exercise Science course for Year 12. This was off the back of another fantastic and well-deserved set of GCSE results under the guidance of Mr Fielden. The Key Stage 3 PE programme was completely revamped to focus attention on developing individual fundamental movement skills (FMS) under the leadership of Mr Potter. The FMS platform provided each student in Year 7 & 8 with a personalised report and workout programme of progressive exercises to support individual development throughout the year and enhance their physical literacy. Meanwhile, ‘Games’ was rebranded to ‘Sport’ due to the increasing number of activities offered to the students in the upper school in their weekly afternoon lessons.

The department regularly discussed ‘winning’ amongst the staff team and with the pupils, and whilst everyone agreed that individuals have their own vision, participation is key. The aim of the sport and competitive programme remains unchanged and the long-term development and involvement of our pupils in sport, at whatever level that looks like for the individual, is at the heart of everything we do.

Winning in our eyes is simply ensuring that every child is given an opportunity to participate. Our job is then to nurture their individual talents, perceptions of what winning looks like and to assist them on their journey of lifelong involvement in sport and physical activity, so that they can improve and become fit, healthy and happy individuals.

I am delighted to report that participation numbers at after school training continues to be impressive, suggesting that pupils are enjoying the varied programme, and Saturday sport is now well established for both boys and girls. It is common to see more than 200 pupils participating in competitive sport at the weekend. Thank you to both the pupils and parents for your support of the programme and the hours that you dedicate to sport during the week and at weekends.

Excellence and commitment is of equal importance and our dedicated Heads of Sport will outline the highlights of their seasons to follow, but with over 50 pupils currently holding representative honors across a wide range of activities and more pupils than ever involved with the extracurricular programme, there is clearly much to celebrate.

As a team we don’t like to stop thinking forward and as always are keen to be guided by the pupils in setting up new initiatives. We are constantly looking at new ways of adding value to our department and always welcome feedback on areas of particular of interest to the pupils. New initiatives this year include rowing at the Royal Docks, Orienteering during afternoon sport sessions for Years 9 & 10, Street Dance, Padel at Sundridge Park Tennis Club for pupils in Years 11 to 13 and increased opportunities for participation in tennis and athletics across our facilities and at Sutcliffe Park Athletics track.

I would like to thank all the PE teachers, coaching staff, grounds, catering and medical teams and support staff for working tirelessly to make competitive sport at Colfe’s possible. The Heads of Sport do an outstanding job of organising the competitive programme, but it would not be possible without the support of the whole school team.

We say goodbye to our fabulous Sports Graduates and administrative assistant this year; Mr Swandells who moves to Hazelwood School in Oxted, Kent to take on the role of Assistant Tutor, Miss Fenner who undertakes her first full time teaching job at Prendergast School, Miss Marchant who moves to pastures new, and Mr Sanford who moves to St. Dunstan’s School to gain experience in a different school setting so that he can start teacher training. Mrs Williams also moves to St. Dunstan’s to take up the post of Teacher of Sport & Exercise Science. They have all done a brilliant job supporting the department.

Mr Fielden also moves to Hayes School to become Head of Sports Performance and Partnerships. He has made such a positive impact on the delivery of sport and academic PE and will be greatly missed by the staff team and pupils. We look forward to seeing him again soon on the rugby pitch.

Congratulations to Miss Hughes, who has successfully passed and completed her teacher training year, Mr Potter who has passed his minibus test, and Miss Manzi and Capt. Roberts on the birth of baby Elizabeth.

AQUATICS

SWIMMING

Swimming and Water Polo at Colfe’s has continued to flourish with more pupils than ever taking part in all things aquatic!

In swimming, we have continued to storm down the pool with great successes across the year groups in many of our friendly galas, with notable wins against Forest, Bancrofts, St Dunstan’s, Eltham College & Farrington’s.

Our swimmers have also represented the school at many competitions once again – the Kent Secondary Schools Individual Gala in Margate kicked off 2022 and Colfe’s showed their strength and depth across all age groups. Henry (Year 10) picked up two gold medals in his events and Blythe (Year 13) a gold and a silver, plus there were notable swims from Amie (Year 11), Leo (Year 9) & James (Year 8), who all finished just outside of a medal position. Our U12s and U13s also progressed to the B Final of the London League, where we competed against some very strong schools, resulting in a number of personal best times and exciting relays!

The Bath Cup relay event was once again held at the London Aquatics Centre, an unfortunate clash of dates meant that it coincided with mock exams for many of our senior swimmers, but it was a great experience for those who were able to attend – some of whom are only in Year 9 but finding themselves competing against Year 13s!

As always, we have had an exceptional number of swimmers competing at both County and Regional level. This is an incredible achievement for our swimmers to maintain this level of training alongside their studies and other commitments. Congratulations to Ben (Year 7), James (Year 8), Leo (Year 9), Noemie (Year 9), Henry (Year 10), Jacob (Year 11), Zach (Year 11), Amie (Year Y11) and Blythe (Year 13).

WATER POLO

We have also had some great success in Water Polo across all age groups, with more children taking part in the London League and the ESSA tournaments. Despite losses to dominant water polo schools like Trinity, Whitgift and Dulwich College, our players are improving with every match. We have had wins against Eltham College & Alleyn’s and narrowly lost to Ibstock and Emmanuel. The standout achievement though has to be our U15 Mixed team, who got up incredibly early to travel to Northampton for the National Plate Finals Competition – in what was a pulsating final, they beat Northampton School 6-5 (scoring the winning goal in the last few seconds!) to take top place and bring the silverware to London. They then travelled back down and went on to play in the U16 London League final in North London in the afternoon, narrowly missing out on winning that one too! Perhaps they were a bit tired by then!

Several players have also been selected to represent London Region –Abe, Harry, Lily, Jakab and Jack, with Lily, Jakab and Jack all being selected for National Trials.

As always, it is important to say an enormous thank you to our wonderful coaches, Ms Grover, Mr Woodward, Mr Graimes and Mr Szell. All the swim squad and water polo sessions couldn’t have gone ahead without your continued commitment and enthusiasm.

I also have to say a fond farewell to some of our Year 13 swimmers, many of whom have been with me since the beginning of our swim programme, helping it to become the success it is today! Thank you so much for all your hard work over the years, you have been fantastic role models. Good luck Denny, Ben, Sophia, Blythe, Amelie, Anna, Will and Katie.

Finally, a huge well done and thank you to all the swimmers and water polo players who have represented the school this past year – we are incredibly proud of all of you. Bring on next year!

Sarah Manzi and Gemma Nurse, Masters in Charge of Swimming

U12 U13 London League Final Aquatics

Years 9-11 Boys Aquatics

U15 Water Polo

Year 7 Girls Gala Aquatics

Years 9-11 Girls Aquatics

HOCKEY

It has been so lovely playing fixtures again this year. Although we had lots of fun playing hockey last year, fixtures definitely provide more purpose and the girls love the competition.

The 1st XI started the season as they meant to go on, winning the Plate competition in the Mel Clewlow County tournament. They only lost three games the whole season and those were narrow loses. The team have demonstrated a lot of passion and potential, and there have been some fantastic team performances. Most notably in their match against Forest, where attack and defence linked really well, creating many shooting opportunities and resulting in a 4-0 win.

Next term we have our first ever senior preseason tour. At the beginning of September, we will be taking 30 girls to the University of Bath, where we will make use of their excellent facilities and play fixtures against some local schools in preparation for the season ahead. There will be a lot of competition for places in the senior squads next year and we are excited to see what they can achieve together.

This U15A team captained brilliantly by Xanthe, began their season with some difficult fixtures, competing against the likes of Bancroft’s, Bromley High School and an extremely exciting match against JAGS, which eventually ended in a narrow loss. The girls trained incredibly hard throughout the season, developing their skills and confidence, and finished the season on a high with four wins in a row. The U15B team were unstoppable. They won all their games and only conceded two goals the whole season! The two U15 goalkeepers, Sophie and Sofia, played a huge part in the success of their teams this year, with some outstanding performances.

Like the U15Bs, the U14Bs were also unbeaten this year. The U14A team had more mixed results. All the U14 players should be really pleased with the progress they made. It is a big change moving to the 11-a-side game and the girls adapted well, working hard to develop their pressing and outletting. They have all demonstrated so much potential and we look forward to seeing them flourish in the senior squads next year.

The U13s had a really successful year. The As struggled to perform as a team at the Kent County Tournament but worked hard and made huge progress with their connections in attack, and only lost two matches the rest of the season. Some of their best performances came towards the end of the season, when they started playing the 11-a-side game. They beat Langley Park U14s 5-1 and Bromley High 3-0. The U13Bs played in the Tier 2 Kent County competition, where all bar one of the other teams entered were A teams. They made it all the way to the finals, where they just lost on penalty flicks. The teamwork that they displayed that day was amazing. The U13C team had some challenging opposition, coming up against two A teams this season. Both games were

very closely fought, but eventually lost. They did however beat Bancroft’s, Bromley High and Eltham. The U13Ds had similar success against these three schools and also beat JAGS. They only lost one game this season and scored a massive 32 goals over the six games they played.

The U12s made an excellent start along their hockey journey this year. It is always exciting meeting our newest players. Unlike previous intakes, where some pupils have played hockey at club level, the girls all started at the beginning with some girls touching a hockey stick for the very first time. It was a rapid learning curve as the fixtures and tournaments started coming thick and fast. Rules were learnt quickly, and the stick skills improved every match. Despite a challenging fixture card, the girls were resilient and made huge progress throughout the season. The girls worked very hard at training, listened, and took on board feedback. Their hard work and determination really paid off and by the end of the season the teams had recorded wins against strong opposition such as Bromley High, Langley Park, Bancrofts and Eltham. A most enjoyable season with lots to look forward to –well done girls!

A number of girls have played representative hockey outside of school this year too. Congratulations to Emma (Year 12) for her continued selection for the regional performance centre.

Freya (Year 12), Anneke (Year 12), Nell (Year 11), Evie (Year 11), Amelia (Year 8), Amelie (Year 8), and Daisy (Year 8) have all represented London this year.

And Isla (Year 8), Ellie (Year 8) and Eva (Year 7) have represented Greenwich in the London Youth Games, well done to all of them.

Thank you to all the staff involved in the hockey program this year, and congratulations to all the girls for their hard work and achievements.

Annabel Owen, Master in Charge of Hockey

Friday Night Lights

Hockey Huddle

U13 A Team

RUGBY

As is now the norm, the majority of our rugby players were back on the pitch before the start of the Autumn term. In addition to the usual pre-season there was a 4-day training camp for the senior squad at the University of Kent that included a tournament with King’s School, Canterbury and St Lawrence College. This prepared the boys nicely for the first block fixture of the season against neighbours BETHS, where all the age groups made a winning start to the season.

The U12s continued this trend throughout the term, winning all but one of their matches, that being a fantastic draw against The Cedars. This group have shown incredible potential and I look forward to seeing that develop in the coming years. That said, the highlights of the term must be the fixtures for the U12D team. To see boys who joined Colfe’s having never touched a rugby ball represent the school with such pride against rugby powerhouses such as John Fisher and Whitgift was enthralling to see.

The U13s had a similarly successful season with victories against Eltham College, Reigate Grammar and St Olave’s. Caterham were the only team to prevent a victory, holding on for a draw. Beyond that they continued to develop both their individual skills and team cohesion and it was pleasing to see the strength and depth of the squad improve.

Under the guidance of Mr Wheadon and Mr Gayle the U14 squad continued to perform to a high standard. They achieved impressive victories over the likes of Caterham and Eltham College. Not only did a vast majority of the results go their way, including victories over Sutton Valance and Latymer Upper School, but they acutely displayed the characteristics of determination and resilience, key attributes the school is looking to develop in our pupils. The season also provided great learning experiences, including the fixture against a top rugby school, Dulwich College, which highlighted the importance of the individual players focusing upon their own roles and responsibilities to create a good team performance. Overall, it was a fantastic season with some excellent, freeflowing rugby and the players should feel proud of the manner in which they represented the school.

The U15s had an extremely hectic season with the usual busy block fixtures alongside county and national cup competitions, not to mention other school sport commitments. However, this group should be commended on their application and attitude throughout the term. It was pleasing to see individuals not only develop their rugby skills but also to see the emergence of some impressive leaders amongst the cohort. Season highlights included impressive victories against Bancroft’s, Latymer Upper and The Cedars.

The U16s should be commended for their resilience during a difficult season where a lot of pressure is placed on their time outside the classroom. They maintained a positive approach to training and matches, ably led by Mr Knowles. A number of boys also made their first appearances for the senior teams also. A robust performance against our friends and neighbours at Old Colfeians was only topped by a convincing victory against Latymer Upper School.

Mr Mcfarlane was delighted tobe back working with a group of players in the 2nd XV, having coached them initially six years ago. They may have changed in size but their attitude towards developing had not. They had a mix of experience in the team, with some players pushing for a place in the 1st XV and others playing rugby for the school for the first time. Finding consistent fixtures was a challenge, but no matter the opposition the boys were a credit to the school in how they performed and carried themselves.

Equally the 1st XV were going to be up against it in regard to the depth of the squad to cope with the demands of a tough season. However, with some excellent leadership from the senior group the boys recorded some fine performances including victories over St Dunstan’s College, Latymer Upper School and The Cedars. In addition, during rugby 7s, the boys were able to round off the season, and for many their Colfe’s rugby career, winning the bowl competition at the Kent championships.

As always, the boys are only able to achieve what they do with the support of parents and coaching staff, so I thank you all for you continued support and look forward to seeing you at the start of next season in whatever form that may be.

Alan Bateson, Master in Charge of Rugby

NETBALL

This year has seen a record number of fixtures as we made our way back onto the court, after two years away. The season started with some difficult fixtures against Caterham, which gave the girls the determination to work extremely hard on and off the court. They have demonstrated real resilience throughout this year, and managed to finish the season with triumphant wins against Blackheath and St Dunstan’s.

The Senior netball programme has thrived this year, we have had a record number of girls at training and each one has worked extremely hard on developing their skill set. The 1st team, captained by Basanti and Katie, have developed a close bond on and off the court. The team has been dedicated to netball training and strengthening and conditioning sessions. They have worked hard on their through-court play and have made great developments with the strategical play. The 2nd and 3rd teams showed grit and determination across their fixture card, with impressive wins against King’s Rochester School, Bromley High School, Gordon’s School and St Dunstan’s College. It has been a pleasure to work with all the senior teams this year and I look forward to watching them grow even more next year.

What a season for all the U15 squads involved in the netball program this year, from narrow losses to huge wins and an amazing amount of teamwork and progress made! All players involved in the season have shown pure excellence, resilience and determination when coming up against teams such as Bancroft’s School, Forest School, Sutton Valence School and Blackheath High School, coming away with great wins. They should all be extremely proud of themselves for how they have conducted themselves with such maturity and sportsmanship.

The U14 teams have worked extremely hard this season and have reaped the benefits of this with several outstanding wins and a 3rd place finish at the Kent County Finals. All teams have made great progress developing their skill level and tactical awareness. They have maintained excellent partnerships on court this season and been triumphant against Forest, Gordan’s and Alleyn’s.

The U13s had a productive season with 41 matches across the five teams (A-E). They worked hard as a year group to develop their knowledge and understanding of the game and their individual skills and team cohesion grew through regular training, which was most pleasing. Across the teams they recorded strong performances against Bancrofts, Eltham, Forest and Gordons and the U13As had an exciting match against JAGS to end 19-18 to Colfe’s after 40 minutes of end-to-end play. I was impressed by the effort and subsequent progress of Ellie, Sofia, Isabella, Fikayo, Francesca and Lottie. Thanks for a great season, girls, and good luck for the next – you have so much potential!

The U12s have had a great season. They have all made huge strides with their understanding of the game and skill set. All teams have demonstrated resilience against some tough opposition but have been able to deliver in matches against King’s Rochester, Blackheath and St Dunstan’s. The A team, captained by Issy, went on to finish in the top 8 at the Kent School’s Tournament, this is a result of all their hard work on and off the netball court.

Congratulations to the following pupils who have represented Kent County this year: Xanthe, Grace, Lucy, Amelie, Aura and Olivia, and also to Roshie who has represented London Pulse at Regional level. All the pupils involved have demonstrated outstanding commitment and dedication to developing their netball this year.

Lastly, we say goodbye to Katie and Maya who have represented Colfe’s throughout their time at school from Year 3 to 13! Both pupils have been an asset to the first team this year and have been excellent role models to the younger pupils. I wish both the best of luck in their futures.

Emma Willats-Barrie, Master in Charge of Netball

GIRLS FOOTBALL

The girls’ football season got off to an exciting start with five senior year groups representing the school. Miss Gibbs’ early morning training proved popular despite the chilly weather and dark mornings, and the English Schools Football Competitions started in October for the U15 and U13 age groups. In late November, all girls participated in football during their sports afternoons and in March the girls were fortunate to watch Charlton Women play at their home ground. With the Lionesses’ superb performances in the Euro’s this year, I am sure football is only going to continue to grow at Colfe’s!

The U16s, captained superbly by Isis, made great progress throughout the season. They were unlucky in the cups, drawing strong teams in the early rounds, but they worked tirelessly in defence, acted upon feedback, and made it through to the semi-finals of the Bromley Schools Cup.

The U14 side made their debuts in the English Schools and National Schools competitions and worked hard on their individual skills (for many the game is still new to these girls). Ella, Chloe and Tilly took turns in leading the team and supporting their teammates with tactics and strategies to outwit the opponents and the team put in a stoic performance against Bexley Grammar with a nail-biting 6-5 win.

The U13s had a superb season, winning 6 of their 10 matches, progressing to round five of the Independent Schools Cup and cruising their way to the finals of the ‘Sisters in Sport’ National Plate Competition, having lost narrowly on penalties after a 6-6 draw at full time in the cup. A six-hour minibus journey, stopover in Derby in the ‘Ibis Villa’ and finals day all added to the excitement of their season, and we know there is much to come with this talented group of girls. Lois captained the side superbly throughout the season and Amelia and Lutece hit the back of the net repeatedly. Credit must be given to both goalkeepers; Aura and Amelie, who kept the goal difference on the positive side by 19 for the season.

BOYS FOOTBALL

In a season that included a number of new fixtures, the eagerly anticipated football campaign got underway in January with fixtures against Forest School. The results here gave an indication of how the relative season for each age group would pan out, which saw the majority of teams perform to a very high level.

The U15s’ technical ability proved too much for teams from Maidstone Grammar, Kingston Grammar and St Dunstan’s College to name a few. A real cutting edge at the top of the pitch the difference in the majority of their games. It was also pleasing to see some real leaders come to the fore amongst the group as they continue to mature.

The U14s were characterised by the pace and dynamism they played with, demonstrating the ability to move the ball from back to front with ease and efficiency. A pleasure to watch, their football IQ was clear to see across the squad both in training and on match day. This brought standout performances against St Dunstan’s and Dunottar.

The workman-like approach by the U13 teams ensured they maximised their potential this season. The ability to cover the pitch quickly and press opposition into making mistakes led to victories over opposition including Forest School, UCS and City of London. They should be commended on their application, which included additional training sessions in the autumn term.

Mr Little had a very enjoyable season with the Under 12 team, in which there were some very good challenges in addition to a number of great wins. On two occasions at home the boys gained some important experience. They conceded early goals against Highgate and UCS but showed great character and determination to carry on plugging away and working hard for each other on the pitch.

In other matches against Maidstone Grammar and St Dunstan’s the boys displayed fantastic individual and collective qualities to pick up some very comfortable and well-deserved wins. The strength across the whole team was very visible, and each player played their part.

The U12 team, under the guidance of Mr Sanford, made huge strides. Individual player development was the focus with the sport completely new to most of the team. The girls started the season knowing little about positions, formations or the actual rules of the game and finished on a high scoring three goals in the Bromley Schools cup.

I would like to thank Miss Gibbs, Mr Sanford, Mr Oliver, Miss Russell and Miss Willats-Barrie, who all supported the programme over the course of the year.

Nicci Rayes, Director of Sport

For Mr Kimberley and the senior squad, it was a season of great team and individual performances. Most memorably away at Forest School, where the team performed brilliantly and scored some great goals, coming out winners 3 goals to nil. From an individual standpoint, Denny demonstrated his continued cutting edge with a hat trick at Maidstone Grammar School. All in all, it was an enjoyable season where all the boys showed great resilience and pride.

As the football programme at Colfe’s continues to develop I look forward to building on the success of this season in conjunction with ongoing support of staff and parents.

Alan Bateson, Assistant Director of Sport

GIRLS CRICKET

There was much to celebrate this season across the age groups; Hardball cricket was played at all age groups, we hosted the Kent County finals at Horn Park, Saturday fixtures were introduced against other schools and local club sides, and we made huge progress thanks to the support and commitment of the staff and coaching team.

The U15s, under the leadership of Ms Owen, had a very successful start to their cricket season, competing in the Kent Indoor 8’s Cricket Competition and making it to the finals. They then embarked on their first season of hardball cricket. It was a big change, which they fully embraced, and they worked incredibly hard to develop their skills and understanding of the game. They should be very proud of the progress they made and the positive attitude with which they approached new challenges. The season culminated with a showpiece fixture against The King’s School, Canterbury, as part of their King’s Fest, with a notable performance from Eva, who demonstrated excellent defensive batting skills against some strong bowlers.

The U14s’, under the management of Miss Russell and Miss Stevenson, season was one of the most challenging for the players as they were introduced to hard ball. It was a display of character and resilience from all players as they came across some difficult matches and tournaments throughout their season and had to get use to switching between the different formats. The team, captained fantastically by Emily, showed wonderful team cohesion and determination throughout the season.

The U13s, under the guidance of Miss WillatsBarrie and Miss Hughes, had a busy and exciting season. The girls played a mixture of hardball and softball this year and demonstrated real resilience. The team performed strongly in the Indoor County softball tournament in February, progressing to finals and placing 4th overall. In the softball tournament they won the round

BOYS CRICKET

Boys’ cricket has gone from strength to strength in 2022. After record numbers at winter training, the boys were fully prepared for the upcoming season.

The season kicked off with a block fixture against Cedar’s school. There was a strong showing with the majority of teams getting off to a winning start. The first part of the season gave a large number of boys the opportunity to play competitive fixtures. We were able to play A-D team fixtures against Alleyn’s, St Dunstan’s, and Eltham, which gave over 40 boys the chance to represent the school in a mixture of hard and soft ball games.

The first XI had an up and down season. The boys showed good consistency with the bat, posting good scores in the majority of matches. Captain Simon, Shivang, Jacob and Fraser were the main runs scorers. Unfortunately, the boys lost narrowly in a number is games as their bowling and fielding let them down. The highlight of the season was a win against the

and progressed to the finals, placing 2nd after an exciting game against a strong Ashford side. With many girls new to the hardball game, we were delighted with their progress this year. Amelie, Amelia, Daisy, Verity, Ellie and Esme are to be commended for their progress made and support of the teams.

The U12 girls all experienced hard ball cricket and for most of the girls this was their first experience of cricket. Gabby, Emily, Issy, Charlotte and Sofia used their Junior School cricket experience to support the girls with game understanding, whilst the coaching team worked hard to introduce the girls to bowling,

MCC. The first XI have not beaten the MCC for over 6 years and having been set 233 to win, victory looked unlikely. After a solid start and good partnerships from Fraser and Alex, the boys were ahead of the game. After a mini collapse, the boys required 8 from the last over. 6 runs and 2 wickets in 5 balls, 2 runs were required to win off the last ball. Joash, who has not faced a ball all season until that point, came in and hit their opening bowler for four to win the game.

We also had other very close matches against the Forty Club and Leatherseller’s company, but the boys couldn’t pull off the victory on those occasions.

The success the boys had in the London schools’ cups is a great way to measure the progress that has been made. All teams got through the first round with the U15 and U13 teams making it to the semi-final. The standout performance though was the U14s. They played UCS in the final, the team who had beaten them last year,

batting and fielding. The level of development, despite the short season, was impressive. Special mentions go to Grace, Eni, Arin, Emily and Tara, who made considerable progress with their bowling over the season.

Thank you to the cricket coaching team; Mrs Williams, Miss Owen, Miss Willats-Barrie, Miss Russell and Miss Hughes and all the external coaches for the roles they played in developing the girls’ cricket skills this year.

Nicci Rayes, Director of Sport

and saved their best all round performance, to win by 50 runs.

It was a great season overall and I would like to thank the boys for their commitment to the season, the coaches for their hard work preparing and officiating the matches, and the ground staff for preparing fantastic pitches every week to play on.

Jack Potter, Master in Charge of Cricket

TENNIS

What a season for the tennis programme! It has seen a record number of pupils involved in extracurricular clubs, as well as friendly and competitive fixtures. Four teams were entered into the LTA Youth Schools competition, both girls and boys. All the players did extremely well, especially the U13 boys, consisting of Alex, Cameron, Gruff and Ralph, who triumphed in their division and came out on top at the finals down in Canterbury at the Lawn Tennis Club. Throughout the competition the teams have been successful in beating schools such as Bromley High, Bexley Grammar, City of London, Eltham College and Dulwich College. We hope to continue building upon the great successes of this year and see more participation next season. A final congratulations goes to Alex (Year 7) who is currently ranked 18th in the U13 National Tennis standings!

U15 girls doubles

Alex ranked 18th in U13 National Tennis Standings

U15 boys doubles Tennis

U13 Boys Tennis finalists 2022

Cameron & Alex Canterbury Tennis finals 2022

Gruff & Ralph Canterbury Tennis finals 2022

CROSS COUNTRY

The Cross Country season has yet again proved to be a huge success for Colfe’s Athletes.

The season began at Lee Valley, which is always a tough start against the strength of the Essex schools. Abigail (Year 9), came away with an individual silver medal and a fourth place finish for Sam (Year 9) was a sign of things to come.

For the first time, Colfe’s hosted the English Schools round one fixture, at the Leathersellers ground. We managed to progress three of our four teams through to the regional finals. As the next stage after regionals is the national finals, this is a huge step up in quality and, sadly, was not quite within our grasp this year.

Onto the Greenwich Borough Schools’ Championships. Colfe’s managed to bring home two trophies and finish with an agonizing five second places and one fifth place. This made us the best performing school in the Borough, also securing seven individual medals, plus a record number of London Youth Games and London Inter-borough selections, of which Colfe’s athletes were a part of Greenwich’s best ever performance.

February saw Colfe’s most successful ever London Schools Championships. We managed to secure three team medals – Silver for both the Junior Boys A and Inter Girls teams, and Bronze for the Junior Boys B team. There was also an individual silver medal for Sam (Year 9), which secured his selection for the English Schools Finals, to represent London. Sam was the first London finisher home, with a very respectable placing in one of the highest level races of the year.

Alex Kashis

ATHLETICS

The Athletics season always starts in the winter for Colfe’s, with entries for all year groups in the Lee Valley Indoor Schools Cup. The most impressive performances came from the Year 8 & Year 9 Girls teams who reached the A Final, competing against schools who regularly qualify for the outdoor national finals.

Onto the summer and the local competitions. We start in May with the Year 9, Year 8 and Year 7 Cambridge Cups. Colfe’s girls announced their intentions for the season, taking all three trophies on offer, captained by Gabriella (Year 9), Daisy (Year 8) and Issy (Year 7). The Boys were also hungry for success, securing the Year 9 trophy, captained by Felix. Unfortunately, falling just short in the Year 8 competition, finishing second, and the Year 7 team third, captained by Olly and George respectively.

The highlight of the year came at the English Schools’ Cup, which is the highest level track and field team competitions in England. Colfe’s has never had a team through to the regional finals. All four teams progressed through to the regional finals, meaning, due to Acsot weekend and the lack of coaches, the Colfe’s staff guided 54 pupils across London on two trains, two tubes and a walk to compete on the hottest day of the year. Despite some outstanding performances, this level gets tough and we were unfortunate to not progress any teams through to the national finals. However, this development bodes well for next year. With 54 pupils competing, there were so many fantastic performances! A special mention goes to captains and vice captains; Issy, Daisy, Alex, Olly, Gabby, Emily, Felix and Moses.

The London Schools Combined Events Championship once again proved fruitful for Gabby (Year 9), successfully defending her title and securing selection once again for the regional final, representing London. Daniel (Year 9) also picked up a very respectable silver medal. Gabby secured a huge new PB score in the regional final, a score that in most regions would secure a medal, however the Southern region is perhaps one of the strongest in England. Once again, a very respectable performance and representing the school admirably.

The London Schools Individual Championships saw a record 23 Colfe’s pupils selected, resulting in 11 medals. London Champions and Gold medal winners were Gabby (Year 9) in the 75mH, Heidi (Year 7) in the 70mH and Sam (Year 9) in the 1500m. There were a further four silver medals and four bronze medals for Colfe’s pupils. Sam and Gabby (Year 9) both secured their selection for the English Schools Finals, representing London.

Edging towards the end of the year, Colfe’s once again saw success in the Greenwich Schools Borough Championships. The Colfe’s Girls once again proved their strength in taking the Year 7, Year 8 and Year 9 trophies, narrowly missing out on the Year 10 trophy due to a depleted team. The boys wanted to emulate the successes of the girls, however they found things a little tougher. Year 7 finished fifth, Year 8 third, Year 9 second and Year 10 managed to secure the title in what was their last team Athletics competition for Colfe’s.

The Colfe’s Athletics Championships once again proved how high the standards have got within the school; 30 new school records, with over 250 Colfe’s pupils in attendance provided a very successful and enjoyable day in the calendar once again.

Alex Kashis

Athletics Regional Finals

Girls athletics

Year 10 boys athletics trophy

Year 7 Team Athletics

Year 7 girls lift athletics trophy

OLD COLFEIAN SPORT

OLD COLFEIANS CRICKET CLUB

COMMITTEE

The following officials were elected at the club’s AGM held in February 2022:

Richard Burton Chairman

Christopher Tarrant Hon. President

Mark Renshaw Secretary

Jonathan Radhakrishnan 1st XI Captain

Retin Patel 2nd XI Captain / Treasurer

Jack Woods 3rd XI Captain

Paddy Pamment 4th XI Captain

Stephen Cowburn Junior Cricket Manager

Kevin Hunt Welfare and Safeguarding Officer

Tom Rameaux Colfe’s School and OCRFC Liaison

Dan Hepden Social Media Guru (when not on duty)

Dave Hodgson Grounds and Equipment

CHAIRMAN’S REPORT

We have now managed to play two full seasons of cricket since the truncated Covid summer of 2020. This was by no means a certainty as we embarked tentatively upon the 2021 season, or again in the depths of the 2021/22 winter, so this must be regarded as a success in itself. Whilst the 2021 season was predominantly cold and wet, resulting in many frustrating Saturdays as we had games called off or dodged passing storms, the summer of 2022 brought us the opposite extremes of heat and drought. This made it very challenging for all clubs across London and Kent to get enough water onto the cricket squares and surrounds. The net result was some lightning but very bumpy outfields, combined with dry wickets where the bounce was often unpredictable.

Our wickets at Horn Park have generally held up well (for which a big thank you to Brian and his ground staff), but unfortunately the drainage project undertaken at the top of the ground during April left the outfields in poor condition for fielders and bowlers alike. Two further phases of work will be required in autumn and spring to resolve these ongoing issues, which were exacerbated both by the exceptionally dry summer and our friends, the neighbourhood foxes. We look forward to a safer environment for our cricket in 2023, so that Horn Park remains - in the words of Kent Cricket’s community team - a “hidden gem” for hosting adult, junior and representative cricket matches. What have been our top three successes?

1. Forging better links with Colfe’s School and OCRFC

As an Old Colfeian myself (and recent school parent), I am delighted to see a renewed interest in playing cricket at the club from both past and present Colfeians. To a great extent, this is down to the sterling work

carried out behind the scenes by the likes of Tom and Geoff Rameaux and the 2022 school 1st XI captain, Simon. It really is vital for the future of our club that we encourage a steady flow of junior players from Colfe’s, as well as any lapsed former players who want to take up the game again, members of the Old Colfeians rugby club and any current Colfe’s parents and teachers who are interested in turning out. Hence, I want to namecheck just a few Colfeians past and present who have played for the club this year.

In August 2022, Alex Lorimer sadly played what he claims will be his last ever match for the Old Colfeians, after making the decision to move to Yorkshire with his fiancée. Alex played for the club for 24 years, man and boy, and was our undisputed “gun” all-rounder in the 1st XI for much of this time, both as a free-scoring batsman and a genuinely quick opening bowler. His highest score for the club of 128 against Downham & Bellingham in 2018 included 15 fours and seven sixes and he twice took seven wickets in an innings. Even this season, carrying an injury, he took 19 wickets bowling spin. This included 4-13 against Borstal, after his brother Matt Lorimer scored 67 not out to set up the win. We will miss Alex terribly, but hope that Matt, one of the most naturally talented cricketers on the circuit, will continue to be a force to be reckoned with for years to come.

Since joining the cricket club in 2019, Tom Rameaux has been a class act as top order batsman and wicketkeeper for the 3rd XI. Everyone who sees Tom bat believes he could play at a higher level if he wanted to, as he does for the rugby club. Tom hits the ball as hard as anyone I played with or against in club cricket, regularly playing innings that take the game away from the opposition. In playing for the Old Colfeians, Tom is following in the footsteps of his father Geoff (who still hits a mean ball and recently scored a brutal 71 not out for the 4th XI) and grandfather Des (who allegedly once hit

Net practice at Horn Park 2022before the big drought

Alex Lorimer in bowling action - thank you for 24 years at OCCC

A brace of Burtons about to open the batting

Will walks off after scoring fifty on his club debut

Derek Underwood back over his head for six). Tom and Geoff have been instrumental in attracting a number of former Colfeians over from the rugby club, including Dan Hepden, Will Walker and George Crick. Many more are of course welcome!

Simon Burton has played adult cricket for the club since the age of 12, mainly so that his dad could keep a watchful eye on him (or vice versa). His batting really came of age during the 2021 season, scoring his maiden century for the 3rd XI against Bexleyheath and an even better 63 at Hayes, before he was promoted to open the batting for the 2nd XI. Simon has also been responsible for recruiting recent Colfe’s 1st XI stalwarts such as Arvind Thirumaran, a fine batsman and seam bowler, and Hartaran Ghataore, a very useful swing bowler for the 3rd and 4th elevens. They have recently been joined by Markus Conneely, who has contributed some useful runs in the 4th XI as well as being a promising leg-spinner and enthusiastic source of banter in the field.

The real game changer this year has been an influx of players who are still at Colfe’s School. The chairman’s pick of the crop has to be 16-yearold Ryan, whose left arm flight and guile has already lured many more experienced batsmen to their doom, with 21 wickets so far at an average of only 12.7, including a masterful 5-11 against Bexley. A future first team star in the making. Will has also started promisingly with the bat, scoring 51 against OD Cuaco and 65 against Foxbury Exiles, with Alfie top-scoring with 26 in the rematch with a stronger OD Cuaco XI. It’s lovely to welcome them all to our club and we hope that more Colfe’s boys - and ideally some girls too - will follow them next season.

This recent influx of talent has meant that the 3rd XI, in particular, has fielded a majority of Colfeians in its line-up on a number of occasions. Indeed, our match against Ex Blues in August 2022 saw our team span over 40 years of Colfeians: at the senior end, Richard Burton and Richard Thomas (both from the 1981 vintage), through relative youngsters Tom Rameaux and Max Dunmore, to Hartaran Ghataore (year of 2021) and Ryan (Y11). Max Dunmore deserves more than a passing mention here, deservedly being named Player of the Season for the promotion-winning 3rd XI in 2021 and scoring his maiden century (120 not out against Dulwich). Despite this, he still claims that tennis is his main sport!

I should emphasise that, as a fully “open” club, we welcome all players from the wider local community - indeed, two of our team captains attended a little-known establishment called Eltham College! In the modern era, it’s clear that the club could not survive without a fully inclusive approach where we are embedded in the local community.

2. Bringing junior cricket back to Horn Park

As part of our community ethos, we have been offering the ECB’s cricket programmes for children on Sunday mornings at Horn Park. This started with the “All Stars” entry-level activities for five to eight-year-olds and has since expanded to the older “Dynamos” offering (eight to eleven-yearolds). Both programmes focus on having fun whilst building core skill levels for junior cricket. From the start five years ago, the driving forces behind this have been the redoubtable Mark Renshaw (of whom more later) and our intrepid Lancastrian Stephen Cowburn.

For 2022, we made the brave - and some might say, foolhardy - decision to expand our programme numbers from around 70 to 120 children. This was a mammoth undertaking and would not have been possible without the support of many club members (and parents of participants) as coaches/activators. We thank you all for another hugely successful summer,

with hordes of kids, parents and volunteers filling Horn Park for a glorious hour or so on Sunday mornings. It’s a joy to see the ground so full of happy smiling faces (for the most part!).

Despite the success of our All Stars and Dynamos, the issue for us has been the lack of a pathway at OCCC into organised junior league cricket, having reluctantly given up our own youth set-up a decade or so ago.

After many hours of discussions over the winter months, we decided to re-establish a partnership with Greenwich Junior Cricket Academy and to dedicate time, effort and money to make this work. The idea is that our All Stars and Dynamos enter the Academy set-up at a young age, benefit from their excellent range of professional coaching, holiday courses and competitive junior league cricket on offer, then start to be integrated into the OCs adult teams (league or friendly) from age 14 or 15 upwards.

As part of this initiative, we were excited to host more than ten of Greenwich’s junior league matches (U11 & U13) at Horn Park during May, June and July. These mainly took place on Friday evenings (5.30pm start), with the bar open for spectators.

Baby steps so far, but we believe these developments bode well for the future of our cricket club. If we wish to make progress with our senior sides, it is imperative that we can offer junior cricket - both in terms of skills coaching and also competitive league cricket for both boys and girls. During the coming winter and in 2023, we intend to build on this good start to our new partnership with Greenwich Junior Cricket Academy.

3. Increasing our playing membership

For the first time in years, we managed to put out five Saturday teams during June and July 2022. This is a tremendous achievement and has mainly been driven by the unprecedented squad strength across the 3rd and 4th elevens. As well as the increased interest from the school and rugby club, as already mentioned, this has been testament to the great work done by Paddy Pamment as 4th XI skipper for the last few years. In this respect, the OCCC appears to be bucking the general trend seen in London and Kent (where match concessions due to a lack of players have reached an all-time high) and in society as a whole.

As a result, we are approaching a total of 50 annual subs payers this season, a sign that our finances are getting back onto a sounder footing after some worrying times over the last decade. We also continue to be grateful to those past players who support the club through monthly standing orders or one-off donations - this really makes a difference, thank you.

A further initiative has been the full sponsorship this year of our school and university students. We not only take care of their subs and match fees, but their teas as well! We plan to continue with this scheme next season, as we seek to build out our ranks of junior and student members.

TEAM REPORTS ON 2021-2022 SEASONS

SATURDAY 1ST XI

After gaining a well-deserved promotion in 2019, the club’s first eleven has unfortunately been unable to sustain its upward momentum since the post-Covid resumption.

Division III of the Kent Cricket League proved to be a challenge too far in 2021, with the top sides regularly posting totals of 250+. By contrast, we only scored 200 in an innings once - and that was in a losing cause. Despite this, the team had recorded four good wins by the end of Julyagainst Catford & Cyphers, Kings Hill, Catford Wanderers and Bexleyheath - and things looked optimistic in terms of retaining our status in this division. Sadly, we then failed to win any of our last five matches, a run which saw us relegated on the final day by the agonising margin of just two points.

Skipper Jonathan Radhakrishnan was once again the standout batsman, scoring 492 runs at 37.85, including a fine 101 not out against Kings Hill. This made him the sixth highest run-scorer in the division, a very creditable achievement in a relegated side. Our overseas player, the lovelyGreenwich Juniors in action on a perfect summer’s evening at Horn Park

Nick Nelson from Jamaica, was the next highest scorer with 327 runs, and Jack Williams and Josh Kelleher both scored two fifties each. On the bowling front, Jake Wilkins was the leading wicket taker with 20 wickets at 29 runs each, followed by Satchi Mahendran (17) and Jack Williams (16, including 6-24 against Cowdrey). However, the lack of a high-quality spin bowler, combined with the low availability of Josh Kelleher and both Lorimer brothers, demonstrated the relative fragility of our squad, a problem that would persist into 2022.

Relegated back to Division IV, the team has struggled to turn performances around in 2022. Despite recruiting Kent League bowling legend, Rupert Staple, the squad size and quality was rarely sufficient to cover absences due to injury or unavailability. After posting scores in the first two matches of only 74 against Frindsbury and 94 against Bapchild, two sides we would normally have expected to beat comfortably, the task ahead looked tough. Fortunately, availability and form of key players improved markedly from mid-May into June, enabling us to post comfortable wins against Borstal, High Halstow, Downham & Bellingham and eventual champions Catford & Cyphers, in addition to an exciting tie (252 runs each) at Tonbridge. Once again, this good form then fell away alarmingly in July and August, with only one more win (in the return match against Bapchild) recorded amongst eight defeats. The team now needs to scramble some points in the final match to avoid a second successive relegation.

Once again, the batting was frustratingly inconsistent, with no Old Colfeians appearing in the Top 15 run-scorers in the division. Nonetheless, Josh Kelleher, Jonathan Radhakrishnan, Matt Lorimer and the returning Nick Nelson all scored over 300 runs and three fifties each, with Alex Lorimer and Pete Tarrant also scoring well when available and James O’Dowd hitting a fine 91 opening the batting at Rainham. Rupert Staple was leading wicket-taker with 23 wickets at 13.57 each and an economy rate per over of only 2.68 - even in his mid-sixties, the man is still a magician with the ball. Whilst the other bowlers tried manfully to follow Rupert’s lead, it often seemed too easy for the opposition’s batsmen to take games away from us. We must now try to strengthen our 1st XI squad to compete more effectively and consistently next year in the new league structure.

SATURDAY 2ND XI

Retin Patel’s team achieved the amazing feat of promotion to the 2nd XI Premier division in 2021. This was their second successive promotion and it’s hard to believe that this team was playing in Division III as recently as 2015.

The team success was built largely around the herculean performances of our other Jamaican star, Andra Henry. Andra finished top of the batting chart for Division 1, scoring 742 runs in only 12 innings at an average of 74. His top score of 148 not out at Broadstairs contained 15 fours and 8 sixes. Why bother with running when you can hit over a hundred runs in boundaries? He also scored 138 against champions Blackheath, 121 against Canterbury, 98 against Folkestone and 77 not out versus Bexleyheath. Andra in full flight is a fearsome sight for opposition bowlers and fielders alike - and his batting is much admired by cricket ball manufacturers as he manages to lose so many in nearby gardens and woods. He also bowled his leg-spinners to good effect, taking 22 wickets at an average of 17.

Aside from Andra’s brilliance, it was very much a team effort, with the lower batting order frequently needing to dig deep to recover from an unexpected collapse. Retin Patel’s 52 not out against Broadstairs and 49 against Bickley, batting at nine, were prime examples of this resilience. The next highest scorers after Andra were Simon, who recorded 257 runs at 28.56 in his first season at this level, including 65 at Broadstairs, and Mandeep Singh, with 205 runs at 20.50 including two half centuries.

The star of the bowling attack was Iftkhar Jalil (“Ifti Lala”), who deservedly finished top of the wicket table for the division, taking 30 wickets at 15.70. Nishan Singh and Mandeep Singh both took 13 wickets, with Nishan producing a match-winning 5-30 against Broadstairs in tandem with Andra (4-22). Behind the stumps, club legend Chris Tarrant, now in his late sixties, continued to show why he has been one of league’s best wicketkeeper/ batsmen over the decades.

Once promotion was secured with one match to go, it was decided that Andra should play for the 1st XI in their vital last match, with Nick Nelson dropping to the 2s (we are only allowed to field one overseas player per team). Ironically, it was Nick who scored the big runs that day, his 106 against Folkestone helping the 2nd XI to a final victory of the season by a massive 204 runs.

When the euphoria of promotion had worn off over the winter, we knew that competing against the “big boys” of the Kent League in the 2nd XI Premier division would be a very tough prospect. For this reason, we were delighted to bring Andra back from Jamaica for a second season, and also to recruit a number of new players to bolster the strength of the squad. Despite these measures, the 2022 season proved to be a “bridge too far” and the team struggled to compete at this higher level.

Our worst fears appeared confirmed on the opening day of the season, when we were bowled out for only 64 by Lordswood. To the players’ credit, the resilience of the 2021 season then kicked in, with good wins recorded against Hayes and Blackheath and the narrowest of defeats against both Bromley and Sandwich Town. Sadly, this couldn’t last and only one further win was achieved after June, again at the expense of Hayes, with some thumping losses to the stronger teams demonstrating the inevitable loss of belief and morale in the side.

Andra Henry once again held the batting together, scoring 649 runs at an average of 38.18, with two hundreds (126 against Bromley Common and 110 at Hayes) and three fifties. Mandeep Singh again provided able backup, with 256 runs including three fifties. Skipper Retin Patel and newcomer Ajit Singh also chipped in with two half-centuries each, but otherwise the batting proved to be the team’s Achilles heel.

As for the bowling, Mandeep Singh took 24 wickets at 24.83, including 5-34 in the narrow defeat to Bromley and Iftkhar Jalil contributed 16 at 25.31, but even these two struggled to contain the much higher quality of batting on show in the Premier division. Our remaining bowlers, including the new recruits, were at best steady rather than threatening, such that we were never going to bowl sides out cheaply or defend even the more respectable totals. All in all, this turned into a season to forget, but this was to some extent inevitable for a club of our resources trying to compete at the highest level of second eleven cricket in Kent. We look forward to returning to a more level playing field (in all senses of the phrase!) next year.

SATURDAY 3RD XI

Pre-Covid, the club’s 3rd XI struggled for a number of years with the depth and quality of its playing resources. I’m pleased to report that 2021 and 2022 proved to be much more successful seasons, both in terms of enjoyment and performance.

In 2021, Richard Burton’s side finished the season in second place behind a very strong Hayes team and was deservedly promoted to a higher division (Met/West Division III, if you’re asking!).

The top run scorers were Max Dunmore (303 runs at 43.29), Simon (223 runs at 74.33 before we lost him to the 2nd XI), Tom Rameaux (206 runs at 25.75) and Himanshu Pathania (194 runs at 27.71 before succumbing to injury). Max and Simon both scored their maiden centuries, whilst Himanshu’s rapid 91 against Blue Star will live long in the memory. Our batting strength in depth generally meant that we could post totals in the region of 200, a great base for winning 40 over matches. Another upside was that the skipper’s batting talents (?) were rarely required for too long as he explored his new favoured pastimes of umpiring and fielding, also known as “TFC” (thanks for coming).

Our bowling also proved to be too accurate for most opponents. Again, strength in depth was the key, as we were able to rotate readily between seam and spin options. Hasta Vanchinathan (16 wickets at 16.56) was the leading and most consistent wicket-taker, though he rarely took the number of wickets his opening spells of inswing deserved. Newcomer Thriyam Ravi quickly impressed with his off-spinners and was a valuable addition to the team, taking 13 wickets at 14.15 each, ably supported by his spin-twin Louis Jagger (12 wickets at 20.17). The experienced Kevin Hunt snared 13 victims at a cost of only 12.46 each, while Jack Woods

would have taken far more than 11 wickets if some of the 15(!) catches dropped off his bowling had stuck. However, Woodsy did show us all how to catch by taking several “worldies” himself and was deservedly named the skipper’s most valuable player. The evergreen Richard Thomas (“Digger”) sadly missed the second half of the season through injury but still managed to take nine wickets at only 12.56. Laudable performances from all.

Sadly, performances dipped somewhat as periods of unavailability kicked in during holiday season and we were ultimately unable to challenge Hayes for top spot. In the end, our second place was achieved comfortably enough, despite having a mid-season wobble against two of the weaker teams (why?) and losing two of the last three matches.

Jack Woods took over the captaincy in 2022, allowing Richard to focus on his new chairmanship. The squad looked even stronger than last year, with the arrival of Sam Collinson further boosting the seam attack. This meant we started the new season very strongly, comfortably chasing down 154 in the pre-season friendly against a strong New Ash Green side (Himanshu Pathania back on form with 70 and Hartaran Ghatoare picking up 4-25) and then bowling Old Wilsonians out for only 46 at Horn Park in the first league fixture (Hasta 5-15, Sam 3-1, Digger 2-20). Against Bexley, our score was rescued only by a late flurry of 55 from 34 balls by Teja Karra and once again Sam Collinson impressed with a vital spell of 3-21 as we held on by just 8 runs. Then followed our first wobble as we collectively performed well below par against Sidcup and then managed to snatch a five-run defeat from the jaws of victory against Beckenham (Richard Burton 53, Tom Rameaux 41).

Duly chastened, we then embarked on a winning streak of five matches, putting ourselves in real contention to win the league. The chief catalyst was captain Jack Woods suddenly discovering his love of batting, with an explosive 93 against Ex Blues (15 fours, 3 sixes), followed up by 67 at Catford & Cyphers. Two rare appearances this season by James O’Dowd first helped us defeat London Knights on a minefield of a wicket at Hervey Road, then his 78 saw us on the way to a very satisfying win against last year’s champions Hayes. Tom Rameaux’s supporting knocks of 65 against Hayes and 76 not out against Ex Blues, as well as Max Dunmore’s 71 at Catford, were also instrumental in these wins. Holiday season or not, it was nonetheless inexplicable that we then proceeded to lose four out of the next five matches, with a succession of good starts ruined by middle order batting collapses. This generally left our admirable bowling attack with too much to do - exemplified by the return match at Hayes, where inspired spells from Sam, Thriyam, Digger and Ryan meant that we reduced our opponents to 90-7 when chasing only 142. Unfortunately, we were then unable to finish off the tail, a recurring theme of the season which also cost us a win in the vital match with London Knights. Happily, we were finally able to put the losing streak behind us at Ex Blues, a quick-fire partnership of 79 between Richard Burton and Chris Tarrant (combined age over 125 years) seeing us most of the way to the target of 130 on a tricky wicket. This win assured us of a creditable third place finish (but it could have been so much better).

With one match to play, Woodsy, Tom and Max all sit in the Top 10 leading run-scorers in our division, Jack leading the way with 394 runs at 30.31. We were also pleased that Chris Tarrant has played regularly for us following some early season injuries and he has shown his enduring class by scoring 177 runs at an average of 44.25, including a fine 58 not out against London Knights while chaos was occurring at the other end. Back to fitness again (just about), Richard Thomas was the division’s second highest wicket taker with 24 wickets at 17.24 each. Before his trip to India (and a call-up to the 1st XI), Hasta Vanchinathan was often the pick of the bowling attack, with 19 wickets at just 13.00 apiece, and Sam Collinson impressed everyone in his debut season for us, taking 19 wickets at an average of 10.24 and a miserly economy rate of only 2.83. Thriyam Ravi started less consistently than last year but improved towards the end of the season, with 17 wickets at 17.71 each. Once again, I thought we possessed one of the best bowling attacks in the division - if not the best - and our fielding was generally very good (leaving aside a nightmare day at Beckenham). Faced with better quality bowling attacks, we just weren’t consistent enough in the batting this year.

SATURDAY 4TH XI

Coming into the 2021 season, captain Paddy Pamment had assembled what must be the largest pool of potential players ever seen at the Old Colfeians. Or not seen, as was the case with some of the names on the list. A very respectable and enjoyable season ensued, as the team secured a fourth place finish in Met/West Division 6 by winning seven matches and losing six, with three games lost to inclement weather.

The quality of the 4th XI squad was strengthened considerably by the arrival of the very talented Russell Wadey as opening bat and wicket keeper, as well as free-hitting South African and very loud close fielder, Dean Stevens. Russell quickly made his mark by scoring an excellent 97 against Beckenham at Horn Park, resulting in repeated attempts by the 3rd XI captain to poach him for the rest of the season (he did “play up” a few times and did very well there too). Dean, returning to cricket after a long break following serious injury, always scored his runs very quickly, his maiden club fifty against Orpington containing three fours and five sixes, whilst endangering the local residents on Cambridge Drive. Equally pleasing was the contribution to the batting of other relatively new faces such as Rory O’Connor (58 against Old Elthamians, 57 at Dulwich and 48 versus Chislehurst & West Kent) and Ashish Khatkar (44 and the catch of the season in a friendly at Sidcup and a consistent string of twenties and thirties in the league). Andy Hughes also continued to improve as a batsman, leading the team to an incredible one-wicket victory at Bexley with 51 not out from number nine.

Led by the pace of Andy Hughes and left-arm spin of skipper Paddy Pamment, the bowling attack was surely one of strongest in the division. Paddy took 15 wickets at an average of 16.60, holding his nerve superbly when bowling the team to a one-run victory in the last over against Orpington. Andy’s opening spells scare a lot of opening batsmen at this level, his figures of 11 league wickets at 13.91 not doing full justice to his talents. He showed what he was capable of in the “post-season” friendly at Sidcup, ripping apart their top order with a spell of 4-21. The legend that is Gethin Bond chipped in with 13 league wickets at 19.54 each, with seamer Steve McNeill also taking 12 wickets at 22.83.

It’s very easy to say this with hindsight, but it was clear by the end of the 2021 season that the “Mighty Fours” would be much stronger contenders going into 2022 - and so it proved. I will let Paddy tell the story of their incredible 2022 season - for which many congratulations! - in his own words below.

FRIENDLY XIS

Alongside our four league teams on a Saturday, an important part of the club’s ethos is to provide the opportunity to play some friendly cricket too. This is because some of our players prefer this form to league cricket (which, all too sadly, attracts the wrong sort of competitiveness on occasion) and also because friendly matches are a great way of welcoming - as well as trialling - new players to the club, particularly our youngsters.

We’re therefore indebted to the likes of Dominic Adolphe and Mark “Pike” Renshaw, who have both dedicated themselves to organising matches and skippering friendly teams - both our Sunday XI (Dom) and the newly reformed Saturday 5th XI (Pike). We have also played a muchexpanded programme of pre-season (and some post-season) friendlies in the last two years - another good opportunity to mix things up and give new players an opportunity.

We look forward to welcoming new members ahead of the 2023 season. Winter nets start in early January!

Richard Burton, Chairman

CHAMPIONS! THE FOURS FINISH 2022 WITH 305 POINTS

It is testament to how well this season has gone, the strength in depth of the 4th XI and to what a fantastic bunch of people we have involved that we’re disappointed not to have completed a perfect season. In fact, we were just five runs short - only a narrow defeat chasing 82 on an unpredictable wicket at Chislehurst & West Kent stopped us from winning all 16 league games this year.

In a remarkable season, we have ended on 305 of a possible 320 points, meaning that not only have we won games handily, but more often than not, we’ve been bowling sides out. The versatility of the bowling attack - from the raw pace of Andy Hughes (20 wickets at 8.6) to current Colfeian Ryan’s left arm guile (10 wickets at 10.1), Steve McNeill’s miserly control (11 wickets at 19.45), Gethin Bond’s hand grenades (16 wickets at 10.56) and much more besides - resulted in restricting oppositions to an average score of 135 per game.

And with a batting line-up that regularly contained Russell Wadey (458 runs at 65.43), Dean Stevens (395 runs at 30.38) and Ashish Khatkar (346 runs at 26.62), the last two of whom were ever-presents, it was all too often that opposing teams would feel the pressure. Equally adept either setting a total or chasing - but perhaps stronger batting first - the 4th XI was able to see every squad member step up at some point during the season. Wadey and Stevens both scored match-winning tons and Khatkar’s 72 not out anchored a win against Beckenham. Andy Hughes would all too often reduce teams to 10-3 or similar, Ryan recorded his maiden OCCC five wicket haul to secure a win against Bexley in the first game of the season, then Paddy Pamment recorded his first ever 5-for… in the sole loss!

All in all, it has been a thoroughly enjoyable season. Rory O’Connor took over the captaincy midway through, demonstrating guile, cunning and extreme competence when the going occasionally got tough. Everyone plays for each other, with no shortage of passion (maybe sometimes there’s a bit too much passion and heat!) and ultimately everyone is enjoying their Saturday. Availability and consistency have been the key, with 10 players playing eight games or more, and those who have been more occasional have always filled in with aplomb. Sadly, we must bid farewell to Russ Wadey, a fantastic keeper-batsman but more importantly an exemplary person, as he is moving to Eastbourne. But we’ll move up a division, and I’m sure that we’ll continue to be competitive going into the 2023 season, with Colfeians old and current (such as Ryan, Will and Alfie) looking to make their mark.

Paddy Pamment

MARK RENSHAW - OCCC LEGEND

Far too often it seems that someone is only written about when they are unable to read the words penned. On this occasion I am pleased to relate that this is not the case! However, the 2022 season began with a new chairman in post, as my friend and clubmate Mark Renshaw has stepped down after eight years in the office.

In many ways the last decade has been a turbulent time for the cricket section. It is with thanks to Mark and an increasing number of colleagues that the future looks more promising than it might have done when he took on the chairman role.

Mark “Pike” Renshaw

I first met and played against Mark half a century ago. In 1972, Mark was the school’s 1st XI opening bowler and after that we were teammates in Shane Quilter’s Sunday 1st XI at the club. This was a sporting education: league cricket, in the south, was in its infancy and Sunday 1st XI cricket at Old Colfeians was usually all day (11.30am start) with an extremely strong fixture list. Mark was never lightning quick, but he was fast enough and metronomically accurate - despite a “unique” bowling action - to be pretty successful.

Apart from a short period playing in Essex during the 1970s, Mark has graced the Horn Park pitches for the last 50 years. He has held many of the club’s offices (also secretary in the early 1980s and captain of various sides), helped to raise sponsorship for the club, initiated a vitally important junior section and throughout the last 30 years acted as our catering liaison. The performance of the latter role is perhaps best judged by Mark’s partner Mary and their three long-suffering daughters. We are truly blessed to have their support.

Those who may have known Mark only as an established senior member might be surprised to learn that in his younger days, he was something of a trendsetter. Mark was the first guy I knew to sport an earring. In part this led to his well-known club nickname of “Pike” - or “stupid boy” as coined by Mr Quilter.

I’m certain that Mark will continue to be a valuable servant to the cricket section even if not in an official role*.

Cheers and well played Pike!

Christopher Tarrant

*New chairman’s footnote: It’s OK, Chris, we’ve made him secretary again!

Russell Wadey and Dean Stevens celebrate their centuries in time-honoured tradition

KENT OVER 60SNATIONAL CHAMPIONS 2021!

total to 188-9 off their 45 overs. After the loss of an early wicket, Chris Tarrant came in at number three to steady the ship with 34 valuable runs. Steady contributions from the middle order enabled Kent to pass their opponent’s score to seal a famous win and lift the trophy.

Fresh from this success, Chris persuaded two further OCCC colleagues to join up for 2022 on reaching the tender qualifying age of 59. So it was that Richard Thomas and Richard Burton made their Kent Over 60s debuts in a 1st XI friendly against Essex. Unbelievably, Thomas took a wicket with the first ball of the match, a cunning long hop, before the debutants combined with a classic OCCC combo of caught Burton bowled Thomas. After his spell of 3-22, Thomas made way for Burton to pick up 4-31 as Essex were dismissed for 147. Rather implausibly, Burton later hit the winning six over cover point in the final over.

Seniors’ cricket continues to be alive and well in Kent, with four over 60s sides competing in the National championships each year and even two over 70s teams!

We are proud to report that OCCC president, Christopher Tarrant, is currently the captain of the Kent Over 60s First Eleven and led his county to the National Champions title in 2021. Rupert Staple, who subsequently joined OCCC at the start of the 2022 season, was also a key member of the side. This success followed hot on the heels of Chris’s appearances for England Over 60s in 2019 as they won the “Silver Ashes” in Australia (as reported in the 2020 Colfeian).

After stuttering through the regional group stage in third place, Kent remained unfancied going into the national knock-out stage but managed to defeat Middlesex, Cambs & Hunts and hot favourites Essex, all away from home, to reach the final against Warwickshire. Always the man for the big occasion, Rupert Staple’s 5-41 helped restrict the Warwickshire

Surely this couldn’t continue? Of course, it couldn’t. For one thing, the “new boys” were forced to divide and conquer when the league competitions started, with only one 59-year-old “ringer” permitted in a single team. Thomas started well enough in the 2nd XI, taking 10 league wickets at an average of 20.60, but a combination of injuries and selection politics meant that he missed out on the knock-out stage. Burton’s bowling was never the same after a bout of tennis elbow, but he continued to shine with the bat, a knock of 51 not out for the 3rd XI earning him a call-up to the firsts. In the group stages, he then scored 52 in a comfortable win over Middlesex, 70 out of a match-winning opening partnership of 184 against Sussex and 76 on a dodgy village wicket, also against Sussex. Unfortunately, he could not quite carry this form into the knock-out stages.

Having finished top of their group, Kent duly beat Wales and Derbyshire in the next rounds to set up a repeat of last year’s semi-final away to Essex. Sadly, their top order batting misfired on the day and Essex passed the target of 203 with four balls to spare. A disappointing end, but a notable achievement for OCCC to have contributed four players into the Kent Over 60s set-up this year. In particular, huge congratulations are due to Rupert Staple, who has been selected for the England Over 60s tour to Barbados in January 2023.

OLD COLFEIANS RUGBY

What an amazing season!

Across a plethora of club dimensions, we significantly exceeded our own expectations in respect to achievement, development, community outreach, and growth as a club. I personally feel that we have laid further foundations from which to develop and grow Old Colfeians, and I wanted to take a step back for a moment to reflect on these. Covid touched all our lives and turned the world upside down. With the covid years hopefully being in the rear-view mirror, it was our first full year back playing. Nobody could truly know what the impact of almost 2 years out of the game would be. Two weeks ago, at the recent Kent RFU Awards dinner, the current President of the RFU, Jeff Blackett, stated that playing numbers across the country are down on average 20-25%. This is what makes our season achievements even more staggering.

The 1XV finished league champions and have been promoted to the new Regional 2 League. To provide some further context, this new structure means that we are 2 leagues away from the National Leagues (e.g. Premiership, Championship, National 1, National 2, Regional 1 and then Regional 2) or Level 6 as the RFU like to categorise it. A massive congratulations to the players, coaches and the backroom staff, plus everyone else at the club that had a part to play.

Having a strong 2XV is fundamental to the success to the 1st team. The 2XV also finished league champions (the success was mathematically confirmed just after Christmas!), plus they also won the prestigious Kent Shield Competition in the final day at Medway. The 3XV also had a very strong season finishing in the top 3, behind Park House 2s and Beckenham, fostering many new players whilst retaining some of the older brethren and casual social players. These wonderful scenes were perfectly captured below.

The winning Kent team, featuring OCCC stars Christopher Tarrant (front, third from left) and Rupert Staple (front, second from right)

We also obtained planning permission to build a state-of-the-art gym facility. I must thank all of the people raising their hands in offers of help (project management to PTs) – we will be starting to build the project team shortly to focus on coordinating the fundraising and project builds.

I must also bestow a massive thank to all the Members and Sponsors (several new sponsors this year) who throughout the year have continued to support the club financially – without your generosity, we simply wouldn’t have a club. Our JustGiving Appeal, fundraising and charity events have also helped in putting us into a healthy financial position at the end of season, as obviously promotion will result in additional investment capacity in certain areas.

The reports contained in this document reflect the hard work invested and the effort put in by many [to kindly remind everyone we run this club on volunteers!] to keep the club moving onwards and upwards. I was truly inspired, buoyed, and uplifted to see the minis and juniors on many Sundays, along with the age-grade managers providing the support and guidance to the children – we have some real talent coming through the sections (players and adult coaches), which again is so positive for the horizons afar.

In terms of community outreach, there is a lot of incredibly positive work performed across the club. Many new players have joined at many different levels and ages because they want to be part of what we are building. I specifically wanted to call out the new Roebucks Academy. They have been proactively targeting local schools in Greenwich that don’t currently play rugby, or that don’t particularly have access to the strong moral, discipline, or respect teachings that rugby can instil and provide. Well done to Ben Hutchings and Tom Chapman on this program –

SECRETARY’S REPORT

The 2021/22 season turned out to be an extremely positive and exciting season for everyone concerned from U6s up. I would like to thank all the volunteers who consistently give up their time to make this club what it is and who have enabled OCRFC to grow and be successful. This includes all those that hold office as well as those that help run events, ball boy, run the line and referee.

There will always be temptations for players to join other clubs, but I believe that the non-payment of players is fundamental to the ethos of OCRFC – long may it remain. Ann Muldowney has produced the financial report, but my gratitude goes to our sponsors, all our social and 200 club members and the rugby camps run by Ben Hutchings that help the club financially. We will lose some senior players next season due to retirement and work commitments and I wish them well and hope they still come back and support the teams.

You will see reports from all the sections with more detail. It has been a pleasure to see the club buzzing on a Sunday and to watch the senior games. It is fantastic to see players moving up and down the XV ladder which has created a sense of belonging to all and has made all the games exciting to watch. It is especially rewarding to see so many of our own grown talent now playing in the senior teams, proving the hard work in the minis and juniors and Colts pays off.

We were unable to hold an U23 match at Easter due to both the drainage work and the way Easter fell. However, OCs were victorious last Christmas in their charity game against Blackheath and it was fantastic to see we had enough players to rotate two teams.

I am pleased to say there were no major safeguarding issues or injuries this season. I extend our thanks to Bill and Gill Griffiths who kindly donated a defibrillator to the club.

especially when several of these players, who initially never had picked up a rugby ball – to several playing in the 2XV & 3XV and a few picking up POTM for their efforts – superb work all round!

Our social events are gaining legendary status too, and it’s wonderful to see everyone enjoying themselves, especially after Covid. The Festivals, the Darts Night, the End-of-Season ‘Ladies Day’, the recent Rugby League Final trip to call out a few. Please do keep an eye out for upcoming events and summer fun too. Horn Park is receiving a few ‘upgrades’ (thanks MJ, Angela & Team!) so I’m sure we can add and maximise the off-season social events.

Our Touch programme for the summer months has started up with sessions on a Saturday morning. Details are on the club website and all levels are welcome. As a Partner Club of The Wooden Spoon the Children’s Rugby Charity, and Cardiac Arrest in the Young (CRY) we continue to raise money for these extremely good causes.

Finally, can I thank everyone for all the immense support I have received as Chairman in my inaugural season. A special thanks must go to Dave Hodgkiss for all his support, Rob Gardiner (Vice Chairman) who does a tremendous amount of good work and stops me from going mad, the board of Directors for all their support, plus every single volunteer, coach, manager, physio, player, Chigo for the misdiagnosis of my broken leg, every skipper,….my Mum J.

I hope to see many of you at the Summer event (details on the website) – and thanks once more – we have a lot to be proud of, and we have a lot to look forward to ahead, in what will no doubt be a challenging and different season to the last.

Bill Blythe, Old Colfeians RFC Chairman

We are grateful for Colfe’s School for paying for new drainage for the top two pitches and the removal of the saddles from the football goal mouths.

We will certainly reap the benefit in the autumn. I would like to thank Brian Atkins and his team, who continue to maintain our pitches, and I am sure you will agree we are fortunate to have such a nice home ground.

Finally, just by way of reminder – all members are welcome to stand for vacant positions as shown on the agenda. For instance, Shop Manager, which Ursula Gaffney has been trying to hand over for two years!

I hope to see you during the Summer enjoying “Ron’s Garden”.

Mary-Jane Moore, Club Secretary

Some U23s admiring their cup – luckily they didn’t use it to drink from!

DIRECTOR OF RUGBY REPORT

We started the season with high hopes for all the senior sides, but you never quite know….

Pre-season started well with a well-attended players’ meeting and high numbers at the sessions during the summer period. The pre-season games went well with several new players showing what we could expect over the season. Numbers continued to build at training throughout the season with numbers over 30 at nearly all sessions. Including one session with 38 people in attendance!

The season started with Alan Bateson as Head Coach and Tom Chapman supporting him. Henry joined the coaching team and went on to take on the challenge as the 2nd team Coach. The coaching was at an incredibly high standard and was extremely well received by all the players.

The development of players has been key to the club for a long time at all levels and ages and we could see this coming through with Tom’s links to the Colts and a lot of young players making big strides forward through the senior set up.

The 1st and 2nd teams had tremendous seasons with the success at 2nd team really making a difference. There was a real feeling of it being one senior squad with players moving between the two sides frequently and competition for places being the highest it has been for some time. The

2nd team won the league and cup and only lost one game across the season, which was the backbone for the success of the 1st team, who won promotion and secured the league win on the last day of the season.

The 3rd team continued to play with the support of James Good, Andy Foster, Bill Blythe, Marcus and many others turning out on a regular basis and enjoying playing some really good rugby. The atmosphere in the 3rd team was great and, in fact, the atmosphere across the whole Senior Club was great throughout the season.

There were several changes to the website, which allowed for better management of the availability system and player information. Tom continues to work with the Colts and the links between the seniors and the Colts are extremely strong. We have also seen several boys from the Roebucks Academy playing senior rugby and will look to build on this next year.

Next year will be a good challenge for the senior squad, but I’m confident it is one that will be met with success.

A great season that would not have been possible without the commitment from the players and coaches along with the continued support from those cheering from the sidelines and the committee.

Adam Hodgkiss, Director of Rugby

OCRFC SCHOOLS & COMMUNITY OUTREACH

Covid again affected our season with most schools postponing or cancelling rugby coaching before Christmas. Despite this, we were able to start our SE London Schools Cup for Years 7 to 10 and also run a successful season for the Roebuck Rugby Academy (Sixth Form).

SCHOOLS UP TO YEAR 11 Schools Coaches

Tom Rameaux has been supported this season by Larry Measures and Meirion Davies. We offer our coaching to support local schools with coaching, culminating in participation in the SE London Schools Cup.

Old Colfeians South East London Schools Cup

We launched this in October and have run 9 tournaments for U13 & U15 boys and girls with over 300 players from 8 schools competing for the Schools Cup and Respect Cup.

Supported & Partner Schools

Our nomenclature for our school relationships is:

• Supported Schools = Local Primary schools, Secondary schools with no Further Education

• Partner Schools = Secondaries with Further Education

Our Supported Schools are:

• Trinity Lewisham

Saint Matthew Academy

Leigh Academy

Saint Mary Magdelene

Woolwich Poly Boys (from Sept 22)

Eltham Hill Girls

Various local Primaries

Our Partner Schools are:

Thomas Tallis

Harris Greenwich

Joan Roan

Shooters Hill 6th Form College

SUMMARY OF OUR SCHOOLS RELATIONSHIPS Year group

CAMPS

Unfortunately, we were unable to deliver our planned 7 camps last summer due to Covid or the planned May Half-term one due to lack of pitches. We also had lower numbers than hoped for of sponsored players in the October camp, due to us not being able to interact with them in school lessons beforehand. We hope to see the camps reinstated and attendance back up to peak numbers this year.

TOTAL

SCHOOLS YEAR 12& 13 - ROEBUCKS RUGBY ACADEMY

We launched the Academy in September and had a successful first season with 23 players from both our partner schools and other local non-rugby schools. Tom Chapman and Vicky Fleetwood have led the coaching and pastoral care of an eclectic mix of experienced and non-experienced players from a variety of different backgrounds.

The players were coached with two sessions a week and a number of games against other Sixth Forms. We also set up a new competition, the South London Super 10s, with the Roebucks triumphing over three invited schools.

Whilst the Academy was not set up as a traditional club academy, Tom has done an outstanding job of preparing a number of Academy players to play for our 2nd and 3rd teams, and it has been a huge benefit having a combined Colts/Academy leadership.

There are plans to grow and evolve the Academy over the next few seasons.

TEAM OF 15

This will be an umbrella for our Inclusivity drive, combining the schools’ outreach with the SEN work we have begun doing and potentially a lot more. We will provide more detail on this before next season.

COLTS REPORT – THE YEAR OF THE ZOOM WORKOUT!

Played 12. Won 8. Lost 3. Drew 1

PF: 442

This season was a successful one for the Colts. Because of the disruption of the previous 18 months, we decided that the U16s would stay under the guidance of their former coaches, assisted by David Cheng, which left Keith Powell, Vicky Fleetwood and me in charge of the U17/18 group. This season we had a talented group of boys who could challenge any team in the county to a good match. Initial numbers suggested we could run an A and a B team, however as soon as school rugby and injuries kicked in, we were around the 27-30 mark for regular players training.

victory against Beccehamians followed by a loss to Bromley marked the extent of our run in the National Cup! However, it was after Christmas that wins against Aylesford, Maidstone, Alleynians, Dartfordians and a draw with Beckenham that set up a ‘winner takes all’ finals weekend against Sidcup. Unfortunately, they proved too strong and ultimately, we were runners up in the competition and still took home some silverware! On the final weekend

Primary

of the season, we took two sides to Charlton Park for the Kent 7s. A fun day out resulted in a loss in the Cup semi-final to Sevenoaks.

Reflecting on a positive season, what’s very enthusing is the fact that the majority of our strongest players were U17s this year, so there is a great foundation to build upon. It’s always sad to say goodbye to those players who have been at the Club since the minis age groups, but I look forward to seeing them in the Seniors pre-season this summer!

We had a great joint awards evening this year with the Crimsons, which I personally thought worked really well (thanks Rob G for organising). The awards went as follows:

Most Improved Player: Daniel Players’ Player: Elliot Player of the Year: John

Thanks to my fellow coaches and Stuart Fleckney, who has picked up the mantle as U17s manager this season. Thank you and goodbye to Angie Elder as team manager, who has been invaluable over the last couple of years. She’s super organised and I’d have been lost without her this season. She’s also been a great sounding barrier when it’s come to integrating the two age groups together effectively.

My thanks must also go to Ben Hutchings for the creation of the Roebucks Academy. This has proved to be a great tool to recruit players who’ve ended up playing for the Colts, 3rd and 2nd teams. Not only have we benefited numbers-wise, but we have also been able to increase contact time with almost a dozen boys who were already part of the club but at non-rugby-playing schools. Giving them access to rugby and S&C training during the week has certainly had a significant halo effect on Sunday rugby.

JUNIOR SECTION REPORT

Thankfully, a full season of rugby as well as tours and the end of season awards dinner to enjoy again!

Naturally there was some “finding of feet” (indeed the entire make up of teams in some age groups) and that applied to the Kent RFU as well, whose eagerly awaited competitions were generally a little bizarrely structured.

Nevertheless, it was a happy, healthy and successful season.

Before you enjoy the summary of the season from each of the Junior boys’ age groups below, may I take this opportunity to write a few thank yous as this is my last season as Junior section Chair.

My sincere thanks to everyone who has made this season work, and also over the last few years who has supported me and made everything work, especially during the worst “Covid years”. There are too many people to mention by name, but I hope you know who you all are. There’s been a lot of fun along the way, across many age groups, sections and committees.

The final “thank you” and “good luck” to Noel Kilby and Kate Hinchy, who pick up the reins as Junior section co-Chairs. I know they will do a great job.

UNDER 12 COYOTES

We had a positive start to the season with several successful home triangular fixtures plus a well-supported Friday Night Lights event.

Overview

1. Squad continues to grow and the addition/development of some great new players

2. Number of coaches has increased, including assistance from Westie, this has added a good dynamic for the squad. With the increased number of coaches this can also bring challenges, which we plan to review for next season – identifying clear roles and responsibilities, vision, and organisation for 2022/23

3. Identified mentor coach to each player, to support with individual development

4. We have a range of abilities across our squad, this is also a key challenge for the coaches to cater for the range of things that the players want. Some who are in school rugby want to be very structured and competitive, some want to have fun with their friends and play a bit of social rugby. We will take a closer look at this next season to better manage.

5. Fully trained parent first aiders – 5 first aiders in total for the squad

Kent Waterfalls

1. Mixed results in Kent due to a combination of issues:

a. Lack of clear direction from Kent

1. This included other teams playing older age groups and streamed teams

b. Inflexibility from Kent to avoid half term holiday

c. Fixture clashes with school rugby

1. Had to move to one team that was then placed in a higher group at the last minute to ‘make up’ numbers

Overall, very mixed feelings and experiences for our first Kent Waterfall experience. We will have taken away some key learning from this and will be able to better place our squad for next season.

Other Fixtures/events and End of Season Tour

1. Well represented at the Saracens vs Bears event at Spurs (2nd highest number of tickets allocated behind the U14s)

2. Participated in the London Irish International event, learning some valuable lessons on the day

3. Finished the season with a fantastic tour which was extremely well supported, 23 players in total. After a challenging first day we turned it around and won 3 of our 5 games on the final day against a very physical and competitive opposition. The team spirit and commitment shown by the players sets us up very nicely for the season ahead.

THANK YOUS

A big thank you to all the parents for their commitment and support of the boys. Everyone has played a part this season and whilst the tour was one of the high points, along the way parents have been vocal and positive influences on all of the squad and looked for ways that they can support.

There is still some work to be done to create a clear vision for the squad into the 22/23 season and beyond, which is something that we as managers and coaches are fully committed to and excited for next season.

So, on to the season itself. Due to a combination of the majority of the boys playing school rugby on a Saturday and worries over Covid, the Cyclones only played two matches before Christmas. Both resulted in victories, against Sidcup (9t-5t) and Old Alleynians (5t-3t). Unfortunately, the Kent waterfall tournament did not go as well as the coaches had hoped. While we were undefeated in all three of our first-round matches of the day, we lost all three of our second games heavily, which resulted in us finishing each time third in our group on points difference. Hopefully Kent will revert back to single matches on a day for U14s, rather than the waterfall concept in 2022/23. We also managed to play two further friendly matches against Southwark Tigers, winning 10t-2t and leaving the “pièce de résistance” of a 13t-2t victory against Beccehamians on the last day of the season, playing by far the best rugby we have seen from this age group. All the sweeter as they had beaten us 5t-0t in the second round of Kent a month before. Final season record reads: P: 12. W:6. L.3. D3.

The squad is an excellent mix of boys from Colfe’s and from other local schools. What has been most pleasing to the coaches has been how welcome the new boys were made to feel by the existing squad and how well they have gelled. Injuries, illness and unavailability meant that we were never able to select from the full squad for any of our fixtures this year. However, it’s not a coincidence that the strongest squad we were able to field this year was for the last game against Beccehamians. While there is still much for this cohort to learn, not least to maintain intensity both between and during games, the skill levels are excellent considering nearly half the squad only joined us this year and their school rugby is limited.

Lastly to a few thank yous. Both Tom Rameaux and Ian Gayle have combined playing for the 1XV and 3XV respectively on a Saturday with coaching the Cyclones virtually every Sunday this season. Neither of whom have any relation to the boys playing in this age group. The boys are fortunate to have access to such knowledgeable and committed coaches. Chris and Will White have also assisted in the coaching, giving us a muchneeded link between the players and the parents. However, no age group can function without a manager. It’s a thankless task. In my past two age groups I have been blessed with a great manager and for the Cyclones, Claire Kaloy is no different.

All that’s left to say is thank you to the boys for their commitment and our parents for their support this year. Roll on 2022/23!

UNDER 14 CHARGERS

UNDER 13 CYCLONES

What a difference a year makes!

While we did not fully dispose of the “Covid shackles” this season, we were able to not only coach contact skills, but also to have full contact matches against other club opposition, something I know the boys had missed and relished. The season did not get off to the start the coaches had hoped for. Numbers were again an issue, with September seeing only one new face while losing two, and numbers at training were worryingly low. However, I am pleased to report that by the end of the season we had a much healthier 25 players registered, with a potential 3 or 4 additional players either joining training in the last weeks of the season or expressing an interest to join next. Much, if not all the credit should be given to Tom Rameaux whose tireless efforts working not only at Colfes, but also spearheading the Club’s local schools outreach project, has really had a positive impact on player numbers, both at training and for match selection.

Overall, The Chargers have had a very positive season. When we started back in September, we had dropped a little in numbers, but gradually throughout the season, word of mouth recruitment continued, and we concluded with a higher number than last season at circa 34 players. Early season was really focused on getting the players safely back into contact having had such limited playing time in the previous period. Following RFU instruction we played U13 rules until Christmas then switched to U14 rules for the remainder of the season. This presented some challenges having to introduce skills like the lineout without a preseason to practice, but the squad did exceptionally well to adapt. We played a number of mixed ability games before Christmas, then moved to an A team and Development team setup after Christmas to accommodate the Kent Waterfall tournament. The coaching and management team were very proud of the Kent Waterfall results of W7, D1, L1. Both the A team & Development teams played their first full 15-a-side match under lights away at Beccahamians, a great experience for all.

We had a very successful tour to Doncaster, which was brilliantly organised by our Manager, Kate Hinchy. It consisted of two days of activities based around teamwork, problem solving and physical challenges, then a rugby tournament hosted at Sandal RFC to finish up the trip. We entered a side in the Kent 7s where we won 4 of our 6 matches, eventually losing in the bowl final. We entered knowing that we would only have one hour of preparation time due the date of the event, so everyone was very pleased with this outcome.

Finally, a testament to the quality of the squad, we had 10 players selected by club and schools to become part of the Kent DPP program.

UNDER 15 COBRAS

The 2021/22 season finally offered the return to contact rugby after a full season without it. We ended the 19/20 season with a healthy win rate and looked forward to the 21/22 season with reasonable optimism. As we discovered a few teams had us as a target after we had taken their scalps last time out, and we had some narrow losses against our rivals to start the season, and some larger losses against more elite teams. The reintroduction of contact meant we got quite a few injuries and HIAs in the opening weeks, disrupting the team somewhat and hitting morale. This led to the departure of a few players in December, with the Kent Cup fixtures on the horizon in the new year.

A theme for this age group in 21/22 has been an increase in players from the schools local to the area. The work Ben Hutchings has put into the local schools’ rugby means the club is visible to them, and so when the boys put out an SOS to come and join we got an injection of new players, and were able to fulfil the Kent Cup fixtures, and put in some really solid performances, giving the team a real boost. The team reached the quarter finals of the Kent Sevens, and individual congratulations are in order for Eze, for making it into the Kent Saracens PDG, a very welldeserved achievement.

The team would like to thank team manager Denise Dougherty for organising us for the last three years, the first aiders Dom and Will for keeping the boys safe, and the coaching team which will pass over to Tom and Vicky for next season as we join the Colts.

UNDER 16 CHIEFS

The Chiefs remain a large and close-knit group, with more than 35 players attending training over the season and strong numbers for training or matches each week despite some long-term injuries, mock exams and GCSEs.

Inevitably, some players fell away, but we continue to attract new players, testament to the friendly and inclusive nature of our squad. We are grateful to David Cheng for agreeing to coach alongside Ben Hutchings this season. The players benefited from his coaching experience and are a better rugby outfit because of it.

Some early season friendlies allowed us to return to contact after two years and assess how our players had progressed in a competitive setting. It was pleasing to see their physicality was much improved, with better tackling technique and more intensity at the breakdown.

For the Kent Cup we were placed by Kent RFU in the Falcon League, where there was clearly the potential for a number of mismatches given the strength of our squad. With the large number of players we have, we took the approach of fielding a mixed team for every fixture with each player getting a good amount of competitive playing time. We won every match apart from a narrow 10-7 reverse at Sevenoaks, with several players scoring their first competitive try for Old Colfeians, ending the season as Kent Falcons League winners.

GCSEs meant no tour for The Chiefs this season, so we instead hosted a touring side from Wales, Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi, in April and enjoyed a win in a close match played in great spirit. Our final game as The Chiefs was a win under floodlights against Beckenham, with the winning try scored by a Chief who was returning to competitive rugby after a serious seasonlong injury. A fantastic end to our time as Chiefs and we look forward to welcoming them all back as fully fledged Colts next season.

Mike Wrigley, Junior Section Chair

THE CRIMSONSGIRLS SECTION REPORT

The 2021/22 Season has been a strong season for all the age groups. The U15s won the Kent League and the U18s were runners up. Both teams also made it to the Kent Cup Final. The U13s did very well in their first sevens tournament and then went on to win the Bowl in the Kent 7s. The U13s have also managed to recruit a number of new players due to the expanding schools outreach work done by the club. All teams have benefitted from the strong coaching team led by Vicky Fleetwood and Tom Chapman, who coach the U18s, with John Noble coaching U15s and Paul Ironside and Tom Rameaux coaching the U13s.

The 2021/22 season marks a big crossroads for the section. The last of our original cohort leave the Crimsons at the end of this season and whilst lots of new girls have joined since, we need to re-establish that level of focused and successful recruitment. This season the RFU has also confirmed the re-organisation of the girl’s age grade banding, which confirms the need for a very aggressive female-focused recruitment strategy at the club. From next season, instead of U13s (Years 7 and 8), U15s (Years 9 and 10), U18s (Years 11, 12 and 13) there will be U11s (Year 7) U13s (Years 8 and 9) U15s (Years 10 and 11) and U18s (Years 12 and 13). Also, now both U15s and U18s will have exam year players and so will require even larger squads to stay active at certain points of the year. Currently each age group relies on clustering with another club, and it should be our aim for this to not be necessary.

In response to this issue the club has introduced the new position of Director of Women’s and Girls’ Rugby, which is currently being recruited. The focus of this role is to drive recruitment in all ages and the push for a women’s senior team at the club. This will need to include a review of the current facilities with the view of hosting women’s senior teams. The introduction of this position shows the club’s commitment to the section and is a very encouraging move.

The U18s had a very strong season with their cluster club, Sevenoaks, and latterly some of the disbanded Dartfordians U18s joined us. They had the benefit of being coached by Vicky and Tom, who also appreciated the assistance of Paul from Sevenoaks when their schedule could not allow them to attend. It is hoped that this clustering relationship stays in place next season.

The U18s had a great win rate, losing only to Aylesford and Medway during the season, and were runners up in both the Kent League and Cup. It was great to be back to normal this season and for the girls to have lots of fixtures to play. This was brilliantly organised by Eleanor Appleby. The squad also very much enjoyed being part of Ladies Day at the club, playing in the curtain raiser against Old Alleynians. It was a great way to promote the section. The U18s lose six players in total this season and due to the re-organisation no new girls will be moving up, so this age group will need some heavy recruiting.

Amongst the six leaving are the last four of the original cohort, Lara, Natalie, Marianna, and Iona. All have played for Kent at some point whilst at the club and for Lara every season, with both her and Natalie also being part of the Centre of Excellence at Wasps. We hope to see them all back playing once the Women’s section is formed.

U18s Crimsons has a great End of Season Dinner with their Coaches

The U15s have clustered very successfully with Dartford Valley again this season and have had a wonderful season coached by John Noble and managed by Vanessa Noble. They won the Kent League and lost by the narrowest of margins to Tunbridge Wells at the Kent Cup. The only team they have lost to this season is Tunbridge Wells, who have a much more extensive squad. The U15s have also had three players selected for Kent this season which is a great achievement. The players are Libby, Mia (who has played all the way from minis at the club) and Amelie. They all stay as U15s next season with no movement due to the new age grade banding.

2021/2022 SEASON

• The Crimsons had squads of 15 x U18s, 9 x U15s and 10 x U13s this season.

• 4 U18s and 3 U15s were selected for Kent this season.

• The U18s and U15s both played a full season of fixtures with their cluster clubs this season, including the Kent League and Kent Cup and the U18s took part in the St Georges Festival and friendlies. Due to being part of clusters neither team was able to take part in the National Cup. The U13s focused on training and building their young team but very much enjoyed playing some games in the latter part of the season. The U13s focused on 7s and training as they do not cluster.

• Our coaching team of Vicky Fleetwood, Tom Chapman, John Noble, Paul Ironside and Tom Rameaux continued to work brilliantly with the girls and together as a strong team.

• Ben Hutchinson led the outreach team which includes Tom R, Meirion and Larry Measures and they were able to increase their work with local schools after two challenging years. It is hoped that this will continue to be built upon.

• All our volunteers stayed in their roles this season with Eleanor Appleby as fixtures secretary, Vanessa Noble as U15s Manager, Cath Tynan as Crimsons Safeguarding Officer with Pete Snow joining as U13s Manager. Next season there will be much change with several volunteers leaving as their daughters leave the section. We will need first aiders for each section and a new U18s manager. A big thank you to all of them for their continued work with the Crimsons.

LOOKING FORWARD

• Recruitment of Director of Women’s and Girls’ Rugby at OCRFC.

• Mid-week training session for our U18s section in line with most other clubs.

The U13s has welcomed several new recruits this season who have all come in via outreach work that Ben Hutchings and his team have been doing with local schools this season. The team have been coached brilliantly by Paul Ironside and Tom Rameaux and managed by Pete Snow. They have worked hard getting the team to gel which shined through as they began to take their training into games. The team had a great night of 7s under the floodlights at Beccehamians, where with a team of eight they managed to only lose their last game of four, as they began to tire. In May they built on this success by winning the bowl cup in a cluster team with Blackheath at the Kent 7s. A great achievement and much to build on, but like all our sections heavy recruitment is needed in order to compete against the larger clubs.

• Development, Recruitment and Outreach work is at the core of the girl’s section. Next season we need growth in every age group – U11s, U13s, U15s and U18s and to have the numbers to choose not to cluster.

• Necessary action:

1. Continued work on school development and outreach work with a focused lead outreach worker who leads the approach on girls’ rugby, which should include both primary and secondary schools. Years 5 and 6 are critical years to keep girls involved in sport and spark their interest in rugby.

2. Recruitment events – local primary school fairs, presence at OC minis festivals and publicity events.

3. Player recruitment – bring friends, active social media presence and publicise club at their schools.

• Fundraising for Changing facilities for women and girls. It has become clear that to attract and be taken seriously in the women’s and girls’ game that this will be a critical issue and could potentially put off women and girls from joining the club.

It has been great being back playing rugby this season and we look forward to the 2022/23 season, which will hopefully see a growth of women’s and girls’ rugby at OCRFC.

Helen Sackville, Girls Head of Section

U18s Crimsons smiling after win vs Beckenham 2021

U15s Crimsons celebrating a victory at Horn Park

U13s Crimsons enjoying a great evening of rugby 7s under the floodlights

U15s Crimsons Welcoming New Minis Recruits to the section.

MINIS

What a relief to be back to normality! This season has been the first for 3 years, largely free of Covid disruption. That has also meant that it has been a season of firsts for a while – the first Welcome Party, the first Home Festivals and the first End of Season Dinner, none of which have been held since 2019 (and it has felt like that remembering how to organise them!).

I have been immensely proud of how the Club and the Minis section has managed to survive and thrive through the Covid years. This is through the dedication, time and effort of all the coaches, managers and other volunteers at the Club. Overall, the number of players has remained stable, and in some age groups, increased. We also have a large number of coaches, and an increasing number of first aiders, across all age groups.

At our Home Festivals we hosted 1,500 players and over 2,000 parents across two dates. We had a high standard of rugby played across all year groups but, more importantly, the feedback was how well-organised and friendly the festival was.

As always, the season started with the welcome party – a great way to bring people together and a good reminder that Old Colfeians is a great place for both sports and socials. This year attracted a bumper crowd, all excited for the bouncy assault course!

Thank-you to everyone who volunteered at the festivals, you made it happen – in particular, those people who worked tirelessly in front of a hot BBQ for the whole morning. The burgers went down well with the festival crowd!

We then rolled into the usual run of festivals, with Old Elthamians festival being the first up. It’s always a pleasure to see how the players across all age groups improve over the course of a morning and start to bond as a team.

Thankfully, we were not short of festivals this year as the weather stayed playable (if not always, pleasant) for most of the season.

The Saracens link has also remained alive and well with the two events attended this year by the Minis. The first event was the U9s and U10s taking part in a Saracen Festival. This involved the players taking part in a festival played on the Saracens pitch against teams from around the country.

After the festival, all the players, coaches, parents, and other friends and family stay to watch the Saracens match. It is always a fun experience and I often think the adults enjoy the experience more than the players!

The second Saracens event was a trip to the Tottenham Hotspur stadium to watch a Saracens game – always a fun event. We had such a large number of players and parents make the trip to North London that we were selected by Saracens to be one of the clubs to have our badge displayed on a player’s shirt. As you can see from the photo (opposite), Alex Goode played the match with the (far more important!) Old Colfeians RFC badge on his shirt above the Saracens badge.

Finally, we ended the season with the Tour to Grimsby – what more could be needed than a trip to sunny Grimsby on a bank holiday weekend with rugby, family fun and an arcade room with lots and lots (and lots) of tokens. Thank you to the Tour Committee of Lara Howard, Harsh Raut, Lucy Richardson and Amy Burgess for all their hard work, time and effort in organising the tour.

As always, there are a number of people that make the season happen. Many thanks to all our head coaches, coaches, managers and first aiders. You are the backbone of the club that keeps us going every Sunday. Thank you also to all those people who have volunteered in any capacity over the course of the season.

OCRFC MATCH SECRETARY’S REPORT

A memorable season with both the 1st and 2nd teams winning their league and the 2nds winning the cup.

A league and cup double double (sort of)!

1ST XV LONDON 2 SE FINAL TABLE

The 1st XV thoroughly deserved their place at the top of the table and have been promoted (along with Beckenham, Gravesend and Dartfordians due to changes in the league system) into Regional 2 South East. The teams in the league for next season are:

Battersea Ironsides, Beckenham, Chichester, Dartfordians, Farnham, Gravesend, Guildford, Horsham, KCS Old Boys, Old Colfeians, Old Reigatian, Reeds Weybridge

Some familiar sides although we have never played Reeds Weybridge in either league, cup or friendly.

There was no Intermediate Cup this season, so we were not able to attempt to retain the Intermediate London & SE Cup.

Thanks, in particular, go to:

• Catherine Bell, Fixtures Secretary

• Paul Scott, Minis Safeguarding Officer

• Meirion Davies, Coaching Coordinator

• Rich Williams, Treasurer

• Ursula Gaffney, Shop

We also welcome a new Minis Safeguarding Officer in Amy Wicks – thank you for taking on the role.

Thanks also to all those who have volunteered for the new social and tour committees.

Finally, we also say goodbye to the current U11s and their Head Coaches of Martin Bell and Jim Oakman and Manager in Karina White. You can see in the photo below how they have grown from the U7s through to U11s. Good luck in the Juniors and keep enjoying your rugby!

Benedict T Annable, OCRFC Minis Chairman

2ND XV KENT INVICTA B TABLE

The 2nd XV looked like a genuine extra 1st XV this season (ensuring the 1st XV successes also) and comfortably won their league with excellent displays of 15-man rugby.

With the changes to the 1st XV league system there was opportunity for clubs to include lower sides in the system. A number of clubs have done this which means there will only be one Invicta League this season.

The 2nd Team played in the Kent Shield culminating in a victory in final against Dartfordians played at Medway.

Round 1 - Old Colfeians 27 Old Alleynian 15

Round 2 - Old Colfeians 40 Gravesend 13

Semi-Final - Cranbrook 12 Old Colfeians 29

Final - Dartfordians 10 Old Colfeians 43

3RD XV

The 3rd XV played in Kent Metropolitan League 4 and performed well in the games they played.

Canterbury 3, Sevenoaks 3, Medway 3, Cranbrook 2, Old Colfeians 2, Beckenham 2, Alyesford 2, Tunbridge Wells 2

There seemed to be a bit of a hangover from Covid with a number of the sides struggling for players, resulting is several games being scratched (and not by us!). We had a good number of players all season and picked up several friendlies. The league for next season has not yet been released but hopefully this year more games will be fulfilled. As stated last year, there was a lot of positive action in organising getting the teams out and increasing numbers playing numbers and we were not far off being able to field four sides on a couple of weekends. If we can work to get numbers earlier in the week it will be easier to pick up fixtures on the exchange as there seemed to be a distinct lack of sides looking to pick up fixtures, which may be a result of reduced numbers due to the effects of Covid.

Thanks as always must go to the London and Kent referees and those who arrange them (sometimes at short notice – thanks Jeff Farmer), and those who put in a great deal of effort to organise and run the leagues in which the 2nd and 3rd XVs play.

OUTDOOR EDUCATION

This has been a challenging year for Outdoor Education as we emerged from the pandemic and having most of the previous year’s programme cancelled. This meant that there had been no DofE expeditions, and we faced a huge backlog of candidates waiting to complete these. Externally, many of our partner providers had suffered enforced closures and many freelance instructors had left the industry.

The Outdoor Education year starts at the end of August before the start of the Autumn term with our Gold Expeditions in Snowdonia. There was some good news here in that we were now allowed to mix year groups, so we took over 40 pupils to clear the backlog and complete training and qualifying expeditions. A very successful week was had with two teams, comprising 14 pupils, completing challenging qualifying ventures.

The junior programme started in September with our Year 4 visit to Grangewaters in Essex, where we had two fantastic sunny days climbing, abseiling and enjoying the private lake with pupils sailing, canoeing, raft building and paddleboarding.

The end of September saw a larger than normal Year 7 visit the Lake District for two weeks at Glaramara in the Borrowdale Valley. A stunning location with a great programme, which fully utilizes all the Lakes has to offer. We had some interesting weather on both weeks (each form attends one of two weeks). Here children completed high level mountain walks, ghyll scrambling and climbing and canoeing.

Sadly, Year 8 were not able to visit North Wales this year as our accommodation provider had sold up. We were notified of this just two months before the March visit was due to depart and this meant I had to work fast to provide the courses. Year 8 had also missed their Year 7 course due to Covid, so I really wanted to offer them a good experience and I was pleased to be able to give them a course in the Lakes, using Glaramara’s instructional team, and staying at the Newlands Centre who are normally closed at that time of year. I’m really grateful for the flexibility that all involved showed to make these courses happen.

Our annual Year 9 visit to the Bushcraft company went ahead as normal. This back-to-basics experience, living in bell tents and cooking food on open fires whilst learning to live off the land is always well received. It’s a very different experience to our other courses and a lot of valuable survival skills are learnt from this unique experience.

The Summer term sees our DofE programme ramp up to provide expeditions in Kent for Bronze and in the South Downs National Park for Silver. Due to the large numbers (we had 120 pupils on two weekends), we have partnered with Lupine Adventure to ensure we have enough instructors to deliver high quality training and to assess our qualifying ventures. Well done to all the pupils who were successful in these ventures.

Summer also sees our Junior School pupils out of the classroom with two residential trips. Year 5 traveled to Bradwell Outdoor Centre, which offers a first-class course including sailing on the estuary in their brilliant Drakkar yachts. There is also a great mountain bike ride around the area including the old RAF Bradwell airfield. Year 6 traveled to the wonderful and stunning Jurassic coat of Dorset. The weather was pretty good, and we enjoyed a week under canvas, cooking outside, enjoying water activities and fishing off the coast in boats. The week ends with a nice BBQ on the beach before we travel back to London. My last course of the year was with the youngest pupils I work with in Year 3. They had two action-packed days at Bewl Water enjoying some wet and dry activities, BBQ lunches and getting a first opportunity to challenge themselves and explore the outdoors.

I am happy to report that after a period of nil activity during the pandemic, we returned with enthusiasm from both staff and pupils to have a really full and successful year packed full of learning new skills and developing leadership and teamwork, which I know benefit our pupils in the years to come.

Finally, my sincere thanks to all the staff who so generously gave up their time to staff these activities for our pupils.

Major Cherry, Head of Outdoor Education

COMBINED CADET FORCE

2021 allowed for the return of physical training for the CCF and the winter term saw a steady increase in activity with the RAF section completing a field exercise in October, followed by Remembrance Sunday and the highly successful Remembrance dinner in November.

With the New Year there was a change of leadership as Major Joyce handed over to me, Captain Roberts. Newly appointed, I wanted to see the implementation of a rigorous Monday night training programme and a succession of engaging weekend and half term camps, so the staff and I quickly got to work planning the busy calendar.

Colfe’s was one of the few CCFs to conduct a Field Training Exercise (FTX) in February half term. Braving the elements on the eve of Storm Eunice, 40 Colfe’s cadets, led by Cadet Sergeant Major White, put their military skills to the test and survived the night in Mereworth Woods. All cadets performed well, but a special mention must go to the RAF section, led by Corporals Grethe and Turner, who won the CO’s competition by seeing off determined opposition from the Army sections. By staying out all Year 9 and 10 cadets on the FTX completed their Fieldcraft, Expedition and Navigation modules, meaning they qualified for their basic proficiency badge and were duly presented their red half star on their return.

Over the Spring term a number of Colfe’s cadets attended development courses. Army Lance Corporals Edney-Harrison, Jones and Hadingham attended and passed the Senior Cadet Instructor Cadre, a course aimed at giving older students the skills to teach younger cadets unsupervised that is a pre-requisite for promotion to senior ranks. All 3 LCpls were promoted to Corporal on returning to the Sqn. Cpl (now Sgt) Wadeson was selected to attend the Cadet Signaller course at the Royal School of Signals in Blandford, which he duly passed, and Cpl Hadingham also

attended the CyberFirst exercise. The RAF chain of command has been pushing for airtime and the cadets enjoyed their first taste of gliding in over a year when three cadets took to the skies over Kenley airfield in January. This was followed up with flying in a Grob Tutor Aircraft for four lucky cadets in March.

On the first weekend back after the Easter holidays seven Year 10 students and five cadet DS from Year 12, under the supervision of Lt’s Green and Dean, attended the Cadet Supervisory Team selection course at Lydd training camp in Kent. The weekend was put together by the recruit training team - led by 2Lt Withers and enabled by WO2 Coyle - and was the first time the Squadron had conducted an off-site exercise at a Regular Army establishment for a number of years. Following the course, cadet DS who will assist with the training of Year 8 recruits were selected and the top student, Cadet Perry-Wade, was rewarded with promotion to LCpl.

Shortly after CST, a long-awaited return of flying operations on the school field took place with a welcome return of the RAF, this time from 28 Operational Conversion Unit based at RAF Benson, who visited the school on a quiet Thursday evening in their Chinook Heavy Lift Helicopter. The helicopter approached from the west and on its arrival, students carrying out cricket practice scattered to the safety of the boundary to watch. The twin-rotor chopper circled the school, disappeared behind the main building, then reappeared over the sports centre before slowly descending to a hover, 1 metre off the ground. After 2 minutes of practising their load/unload drills with the tailgate opening and closing in a move reminiscent of a ‘dust-off’ from a Vietnam film, the Heavy Lift Helicopter rose and banked to right, moving off towards the Thames and on with its journey.

At the start of May, Colfe’s cadets in Years 9 and 12 were treated to a day trip to Wattisham airfield to visit 663 Squadron, 3 Regt Army Air Corps, who are undergoing transition to the new Apache Attack Helicopter. On arrival, they received a brief on the organisation of the AAC from Capt Brownlow, before being treated to an exclusive tour of the new helicopters in the hangar. It’s not every day you get to see 50 million pounds worth of government spending in the flesh, let alone stand on the fuselage and peer inside the cockpit! The pupils loved the whole experience, and the Squadron is looking forward to more opportunities with the Army Air Corps.

Over the late May bank holiday weekend, 28 new Year 8 recruits attended Ex FAWN COLFEIAN. Under the watchful eye of cadet DS and the adult instructors, the young Roebucks were put through their paces on various military assessments in a bid to earn their coveted AAC and RAF berets and pass out into the Squadron. The new recruits were treated to barrack life details including room inspections and drill but also spent their first night in the field, carried out a loaded march and completed command tasks. At the end of the four-day cadre all recruits successfully passed and were offered a place in the Squadron, boosting cadet numbers to over a hundred. Special mentions must go to Recruit White who received the Best Recruit award, as well as Recruit Totty, who was the Best Runner Up and Recruit Redfearn, who was awarded Best Endeavour. At the same time as the Recruit Cadre was taking place, LCpl Bianco and Cpl Chapman attended and passed their Senior Cadet Instructor Cadre.

In the second half of the Summer term, 26 cadets across Years 9 and 10 completed the Bronze DofE practice and qualifying expeditions. Furthermore, over 20 students from Years 11 and 12 also completed their Silver Expedition. The ongoing work of Major Cherry to provide the unrivalled opportunity for Colfe’s CCF cadets to complete their DofE awards ahead of their peers at the school is thoroughly appreciated by the Squadron and an area where he continues to give back to the cadets.

Over the Summer, 18 Year 11 and 12 students who attended the Silver expeditions travelled to Wales to test themselves in the wilderness of Snowdonia on the Gold DofE practice expedition. The Gold DofE award is only available to Colfe’s students through the CCF, and these cadets are now on track to follow in the footsteps of serving adult volunteers and ex-cadets Sgts Swords and May, who were awarded their Gold DofE certificates at Buckingham Palace earlier this year.

On Saturday 25th June, the Squadron held its Annual Parade attended by the Headmaster and an external Reviewing Officer. It’s been a number of years since such events were able to take place and it was great to see 100 cadets and adult volunteers parading in front of twice as many friends and family. This year the Squadron was fortunate enough to have a serving frontline Apache pilot from 4 Regt Army Air Corps as the inspecting officer. Capt Dignam, was thrilled to meet so many keen and well-presented youngsters and at the buffet after the parade spent several hours interacting with parents and trying to convince the younger members of the adult staff to join the Air Corps. It was a great day for all the cadets, and it was fantastic to see 25 new recruits being welcomed into the Squadron.

The day also marked the final farewell to our Year 13 cadets: Warrant Officers White and Pilkington, SSgts Hadingham and Klanga, Cpls Rimmer, Luke and Dennison. From the RAF section we also bid farewell to Flight Sgts Burton and Woodhouse as well as Sgt Graham. As a token of gratitude for their service, each of the 10 school leavers received a Commanding Officer’s Coin. We wish the cadets all the best with their future aspirations, we will no doubt see them at future Remembrance dinners, and should they choose to, all are welcome to return to the Squadron to assist as adult helpers, whether that be now or in several years’ time. Flt Sgt Woodhouse has already decided to carry on as an adult volunteer in September and assist with the RAF section.

On the final Monday parade of the year the section OCs, Flt Lt Shipp and Lt Green, briefed their cadets before their respective summer camps.

The RAF flight travelled to RAF Lossiemouth, in North-East Scotland, a Quick Reaction Alert station which is home to four Eurofighter Typhoon squadrons that protect the UK’s northern airspace. The RAF cadets were thrilled to be on an active air station and two cadets, Flt Sgt Woodhouse

and LCpl Datta were lucky enough to take part in a North Atlantic patrol on board a P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft. They spent over 2 hours in the cockpit and were brought up to speed on the flight controls, the radar functions and image analysis. Other highlights of the camp included meeting the RAF Regiment and their weapon systems, a station tour, watching the Typhons take off and a trip to the beach. Whilst it was a long journey to the base, the camp was definitely one to remember.

On the Army side, the London District summer camp was a lot closer, at Folkestone in Kent. Whilst the first few days of camp were interrupted by the heat and the hottest day in the UK on record, the cadets were still able to complete activities in the relative coolness of the mornings and evenings. Soldiers from Number 7 Company, Coldstream Guards (who were supporting the camp) went through how to react to effective enemy fire and taught the cadets how to conduct section attacks. Later in the camp the cadets travelled to Hythe ranges to take part in blank firing exercises in the Redoubt. For many this was the first time they had fired the cadet rifle and the thrill of breaching doorways, engaging figure

11 targets and clearing rooms with the sounds of gunfire reverberating around the Redoubt added to the whole experience. On the final day, the cadets were put through their paces on the obstacle course and practiced their shooting on the close combat trainer, a taste of activities to come on the ranges later this year.

As well as the organised unit camps, two senior members of the Squadron attended leadership courses individually. Sgt Wadeson attended the Master Cadet Course held at the National Cadet Training Centre Frimley, whilst Cpl Grethe attended the Air Cadet Leadership Cadre at RAF Cranwell. These two courses represent the pinnacle of cadet training for each service, where cadets from all over the country come to be tested on their service knowledge by regular forces personnel. Attendance on the course does not guarantee success with candidates being awarded a pass or fail based on competence. Both cadets are commended for passing their respective courses with flying colours, a feat not all of their course colleagues were able to achieve.

In addition to the cadets, the adult instructors have been busy putting in buckets of effort to enhance the Cadet experience. In particular, I would like to praise former Colfe’s cadets, Lieutenants Green and Withers. Since January Lt Green has attended three separate courses that

allow him to supervise cadets when conducting blank firing, firing on the Combat Trainer and live firing on a 25m range. 2Lt Withers has worked tirelessly to prepare the recruit training programme with 2x training nights a week and the May half term recruit camp - Ex FAWN COLFEIAN - where our newest Roebucks were put through their paces. Lt Dean and Major Cherry continue to add value with the Adair Leadership cadre and Method of Instruction delivery for Year 10. Along with Lt Dean, Flying Officer Crummay and 2Lt Withers were actively involved in the school DofE programme which Major Cherry has successfully organised for another year.

Flt Lt Shipp, who has served Colfe’s CCF so well as a cadet, Adult Volunteer and Section OC, will sadly be leaving us at Christmas to focus on family commitments. After such a successful summer camp and overseeing the return of cadet flying, he leaves the RAF section in a solid place, the last two years of recruitment has seen over a dozen new RAF cadets enlist and the section continues to grow. Flying Officer Crummay, Sgt May and Sgt Woodhouse will continue to work hard to build on Flt Lt Shipp’s success.

All of this work is underpinned by the tireless commitment of the School Staff Instructor, WO2 Coyle, who is the full-time enabler who

clothes, maintains and administers the Squadron. Furthermore, there have been several members of staff who have assisted the Sqn, with adventurous training, DofE, swimming tests and First Aid training. The Squadron is particularly grateful to Mr Snell, Ms Smith, Miss Manzi and Mrs Cherry for their assistance with the above activities. The students thoroughly appreciate staff giving up their time outside of lessons and from a staff perspective it’s great to see another side to the students outside the classroom. If any staff are interested in doing something different with a military twist, we are always looking for additional support on Monday nights or on our half term camps.

In closing, it’s been a fantastic year for the CCF and one to help forget some of the memories of the 2020/2021 limitations. The 2022/23 school year promises to be another eventful period with live firing on the ranges in Surrey scheduled for October camp and the overseas trip to Gibraltar in February beginning to take shape. More details on both camps and upcoming events such as Remembrance Sunday will be sent out via school comms at the start of the new academic year.

Capt Roberts

RAF

RAF Section, CCF blast off on summer camp in Scotland.

The end of term wasn’t quite the norm for Colfe’s RAF Section, CCF this year. Taking a train from London to Inverness, Scotland certainly gives one plenty of time to build up a sense of trepidation and excitement for the first RAF CCF section summer camp since 2019. Having been incredibly lucky to secure a camp at RAF Lossiemouth, the home of the front line Typhoon Squadron and P8 squadrons, cadets and staff were eager to see just what the week would entail. Our week from 9th to 16th July was certainly memorable.

An early start from school across London’s transport network and, after 8 hours and smooth transition across the border complete, the RAF section piled into a minibus driven by our sister school, Ryde School, who heroically had come from the Isle of Wight no less, to make the final hour-long journey from Inverness train station to RAF Lossiemouth. Given that Saturday was a ‘travel day’, both sections went straight to dinner to demolish pizzas. Sunday allowed us a free day to explore the local area, with cadets testing their fitness in climbing the many steps up to the top of Covesea Lighthouse. This afforded everyone a view of the entire base, as well as the surrounding coast and mountains. Post picnic, cadets were given the afternoon to experience a number of vintage aircraft at Morayvia Museum, which gave them the opportunity to sit in the cockpits of aircraft such as Merlin helicopters, as well as hearing first-hand accounts from previous veterans. The evening was rounded off with some expert and collaborative ironing ready for the first day of camp in blues.

Day 1 of formal camp began with our camp photograph next to the station’s Tornado GR4 gate guardian, thus all were grateful that the ironing paid off! Both units were then privileged to visit 1 Squadron, Typhoon force on Monday morning, which involved us having a plane spotter’s view of the aircraft taxying, then taking off with sheer force and acceleration. Cadets were also treated to a briefing by a Squadron Leader, who explained the vital role that the Typhoon force plays in securing British airspace as well as supporting NATO’s current operations in Europe. This provided a fascinating insight for both staff and cadets, who asked several questions before being treated to a tour of the hangar. Needless to say there was some distraction at this point as mark 21 Spitfire sat in the corner of the hangar, providing an excellent photo opportunity for some keen Spitfire enthusiasts!

After lunch, the day of aircraft exploration continued with a detailed walk around and onboard tour of the RAF’s newest maritime patrol aircraft, the P8 or ‘Poseidon.’ Whilst one cadet remarked that it looked rather like a ‘grey easyJet’, this important aircraft patrols British waters, monitors submarines, supports search and rescue missions and is fitted with all sorts of 007-worthy technology, making it one of the most advanced assets of the RAF. We can neither confirm nor deny if the highlight of this was observing the aircraft taxi to a giant ‘car wash’ where the plane is rigorously cleaned with high pressure jets to remove any salt water from its low-level flying over the sea. We can also neither confirm nor deny if a question was asked regarding P8’s Nessie-locating ability. Given that RAF Lossiemouth is currently the busiest, most operational RAF base given the current global situation, we were blown away by the hospitality and time given to us by serving fleets and were humbled to hear their briefings. It seemed fitting therefore that this special day was marked by a competitive scramble for P8 Flight and Typhoon Flight to build the best sandcastle, with P8 Flight winning for their life-like scale replica!

Tuesday was a day spent in MTP with hands-on activities led by the RAF Regiment and RAF Police, who allowed cadets to work with the RAF dog section. ‘Gina’ and ‘Daisy’ were clear favourites and Cadet Pant should be commended for being the only cadet to manage to successfully command the dog during a mock up search session! Cadet Taylor also successfully modelled some of the training apparatus used by personnel when working with the dogs. Being granted the opportunity to handle the Regiment’s

‘I feel the need… the need for….. Scotland?’

equipment, jumping in and out of a Land Rover defender, and attempting to try on all their equipment, including heavy bergen, webbing and body armour, meant that all cadets were well rested for the base cinema’s showing of Dr Strange that evening, especially given that the base’s PTI’s also put cadets through an afternoon of PT, including a highly competitive series of tug of war contests. Wednesday saw cadets meeting with an RAF Officer who discussed career opportunities within the RAF, followed by an afternoon of cyber gaming. Thursday brought about a different day, with a ‘cadets-on-tour’

respite into Inverness and Fort George, which is a current British Army garrison, yet was built as a deterrent firstly against the Jacobite Uprising in the 1700s. The Highlander Museum was a highlight, with cadets discovering the bravery of Scotsmen who had fallen in both World Wars, as well as those who had escaped from Nazi activity, with one powerful account capturing the attention of many as it was written by one of the first British soldiers on site at the Führerbunker in 1945.

Friday dawned with a significant amount more noise given that the American air force had also arrived on base. Given where the cadet HQ was situated, we had an excellent view of both Typhoons, and now F15s taxiing and taking off. A standout moment of the week was the impromptu tour of an F15 by US Air Force Officer ‘Locco’, that the Americans and the RAF kindly facilitated for us. The timing of this coincided with several fast jets taking off remarkably close by, so this was as close to being in Top Gun as one could get, and despite staff and cadets all clutching their ears, was a moment that many will not forget, accompanied with much Rooster and Maverick style waving. And saluting. Friday was also rounded off by a highly successful camp with a drill competition, judged by the RAF Regiment Warrant Officer. Cadets then gave presentations about their week, and praise must go to Cadet Taylor for the inspirational, articulate and impassioned way in which he presented. All cadets were an asset to Colfe’s CCF, from the way in which they worked together, helped one another throughout the week, and the way in which they behaved in an appropriate manner on an extremely busy RAF base. Huge thanks go to Old Colfeian Oliver May for his support with the trip, as well as Flt Lt Shipp for organising Colfe’s attendance on the camp.

Flying Officer Crummay

A first time for everything!

Our committee saw the light at Colfe’s Senior School in 2018 and is growing in numbers! Meeting weekly to discuss various topics, the group created a range of assemblies throughout the year to raise awareness of societal issues and to encourage everyone to work collaboratively to ensure fair treatment and opportunities for all (thank you to Ms Bellis for the lovely posters). We are delighted to have reached out to the Junior School in our first ever EDI assembly there in the Spring term. In April, some members took part in the Charlton RWB Day Parade to celebrate the amazing diversity in Greenwich and to support Charlton Football Club. Our first charity event was in support of Hope and Play, an organisation that provides support to children in war torn locations. We would like to thank the Colfe’s community for the positive contributions, incredible support and encouragement for our work!

Cécile Davies, EDI Lead

EQUALITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION PARTNERSHIPS

Activities with partner state schools have been taking place for more than ten years now. The range and number of activities has increased year on year, with some obvious hiatuses due to Covid. After the pandemic years it was wonderful to invite partner school pupils and teachers to Colfe’s and to join up for the full range of trips and activities on offer. More than 200 pupils from ten partner schools (Addey and Stanhope, Bonus Pastor, Conisborough College, Deptford Green, Prendergast Ladywell, Prendergast Vale, Prendergast School, St Paul’s Academy, St Ursula’s and Trinity Lewisham, have been to Colfe’s this year for a variety of enrichment activities. Pupils from these schools (and a few others) are likely to join as scholars in the Sixth Form.

Weekly Latin classes have run all year for around 20 pupils from Conisborough, Deptford Green and Trinity, run by Mr Biggs and Mr Titcombe. We envisage most of these pupils continuing with Latin next year and sitting the examination at the end of the two-year course.

Mr Guy held three challenging Maths sessions for 24 pupils from St Paul’s Academy, Deptford Green and Addey and Stanhope.

Mrs Biggs and Ms Chapman held French and Spanish workshops for around 30 pupils and Miss Wendl ran beginners’ German lessons during the Spring term.

Mrs Gudge held two GCSE Art workshops, whose places were in high demand. The Art department also welcomed a PCGE student from Conisborough to support his teacher training.

It was fantastic to bring back the ever popular Science Afternoon. 60 pupils attended challenging practical sessions in two sciences, run by Dr Zimmermann, Mr Fishwick and Mr Armstrong. Dr Lindsay finished the event with a talk about a career in STEM.

Taster sessions for pupils to try A level subjects not offered at GCSE – Economics, Business, Politics, Philosophy, Classical Civilisation and Computer Science were offered by Mr Drury (who started with a test!),

It was lovely to invite partner schools to a John Glyn Scholars’ Lecture again. Keen geographers were really inspired by Paul Olding’s ‘Return to the Berber Village.’

The Annual Year 10 essay competition is one activity that did not cease due to Covid and was overseen this year by Dr Lindsay. The Science essay ‘Putting Microchips in the Human Brain: A step too far in the wrong direction?’ was set by Mr Kiddey, while the Humanities essay ‘History is written by the winners: Do you agree?’ was set by Mr Biggs. The Colfe’s internal competition (judged by the Headmaster) saw Amelie win Science and Holly win Humanities. The top three essays from all schools were sent to St. Catherine’s College, Oxford for the grand final. The Humanities winner was Isobel and the Science winner was Damilola from St Paul’s Academy. Nazo and Jeslyn from St Ursula’s were runners up.

The Catalyst (St. Catherine’s College, Oxford Sustained Partnership Programme) continued this year with Year 10 Colfeians visiting the college along with Year 10s from partner schools in January. Year 12 students from Colfe’s and Prendergast School joined together for a trip to the college in May and for an application and interview workshop in July.

Finally, Year 10 volunteers were able to go back to St. Winifred’s Primary School to help teachers in a variety of activities – reading, maths, music, drama, games etc.

Now we are back up and running I am certain that our partner schools’ activities will go from strength to strength with many more joint activities and events planned. There is an irony that my first Colfeian Partnerships report is also my last! I have loved working with our partner schools and would like to thank all teachers and pupils involved in making these things happen, especially Miss Kendrick. I know that our partner schools programme will be in very safe hands with Miss Kendrick and Mrs Davies next year.

Claire Le Hur, Director of Schools’ Partnerships

Mr Poolton, Miss Beale, while Miss Kendrick and Miss Batten teamed up for the ‘Death of Socrates’ and the series ended with Dr Lea’s popular Psychology experiment.

JUNIOR SCHOOL STAFF

Spring Term 2020

Miss Catriona Macleod BA MSc Head

Miss Lucy Kirkland BA (Hons) PGCE MSc

Mrs Elaine Benjamins BEd (Hons)

Director of Studies

PA to Head & SMT / Office Manager

Mrs Diane Finn School Administrator / First Aider

Jessica Di Mascio BA(Hons) PG Dip BACP (accred) Junior School Counsellor

Name Form Other Responsibilities

Mrs Sue Gurr BEd (Hons)

Deputy Head

Head of EYFS

SMT

DSL (Early Years)

PSHE Subject Leader Library Coordinator Fire Officer

Paediatric First Aider

Miss Emma Bray BA (Hons) Nursery A Teacher

Miss Charley Giles Cache level 3 Nursery A Teaching Assistant

Paediatric First Aider

Miss Sarah Terry CACHE Level 2, Level 3 Early Years Nursery A Key Worker

Teaching Assistant

Ms Vicki Lee BSc PGCE MA) Nursery B Teacher EYFS Co-ordinator

Mrs Nancy Blythe NNEB Nursery B Teaching Assistant

Miss Alice Renfrew Nursery B Teaching Assistant Paediatric First Aider

Ms Debbie Wheater BEd (Hons) Reception A Teacher

EYFS/KS1 Art Subject Leader

Mrs Emma Carey BA (Hons) STILS CACHE Level 3 Reception A Teaching Assistant Paediatric First Aider

Ms Alice Thompson BA PGCE Reception B Teacher

EYFS & KS1 Club Co-ordinator

Mrs Ayesha Barlas BSc Cache Level 3 Reception B Teaching Assistant Paediatric First Aider

Mrs Siobhan Quinn BA (Hons) MA NPQH Reception C Teacher

Whole School RE Subject Leader

Mrs Katie Chapman NNEB NVQ Level 3 Management Reception C Teaching Assistant Paediatric First Aider Key Worker

Miss Holly Ferris BSc(Hons) PGCE

Mrs Georgina Hepden NNEB NVQ Assessor

Mr Mark Heil, BEd (Hons)

Ms Gabriella Scala NVQ3

Ms Anna Mawer BA (Hons) PGCE

Ms Laverne de Montfort NVQ3

Ms Joanna Halloumas BSc(Hons)PGCE

Ms Carole Ryan NVQ3

1A Teacher

1A

1B

1B

Teaching Assistant Paediatric First Aider

Head of KS1 SMT Form Tutor NQT Mentor Staff Professional Development Co-ordinator

Key Worker

Teaching Assistant Paediatric First Aider

1C Teacher

1C

EYFS/KS1Humanities Subject Leader

Teaching Assistant

Teacher

Teaching Assistant

KS1 Forest School (Tues and Fri) Breakfast Club

Mrs Louise Scanlan BA (Hons) PGCE 2B Teacher

Whole School Values Coordinator

Lead in Maths and English Year 2

Miss Martina King BA PGCE 2B

Teaching Assistant

Miss Lucy Clarke BA PGCE MA in Educational Leadership 2C Teacher

Lead in Maths and English Year 1

Ms Kay Jardine NVQ2 2C Teaching Assistant

Mrs Nicola Kingswood BSc (Hons) PGCEEYFS & KS1 Cover Teacher (part time)

Mrs Denise Hills BA (Hons) PGCE QTS EYFS & KS1

Ms Vanessa Paterson BSc (Hons) EYFS & KS1

Ms Danielle Tucker KS1 & KS2

Cover Teacher (part-time)

1:1 SLA (2 days a week)

Midday Meal Supervisor (KS1/EYFS)

Midday Meal Supervisor

Mrs Tara Lee Oliver STILS CACHE Level 3 KS2 HLTA Newsletter Editor

Paediatric First Aider

Mrs Caroline Epps BA PGCE MA 3A Form Tutor

Ms Anna Brown BEd (Hons) 3B Form Tutor

Mr Crispin Kitchen BA PGCE 3C Form Tutor

KS2 Geography Subject Leader KS2 Clubs

Mrs Samantha Gibbons BA (Hons) 4A Teacher

Lead in Maths KS2

Miss Alison Manning BA PGCE /Ms Dee Santos 4B Form Tutor

Mrs Emma Higgs, BA PGCE 4C Form Tutor

KS2 Art Subject Leader Mentor Lead in English KS2

Miss Amy Lennon BSc PGCE 5A Form Tutor

Ms Lisa Roberts BA MA (QTS) 5B Form Tutor Lead in Maths KS2

Mr Jake Dunne BA PGCE 5C Form Tutor

Whole School English Lead Practitioner Lead in English KS2

Richard Jenkins BA (Hons), PGCE (QTS), CELTA 6A Form Tutor

Whole School IT Subject Leader

Mr Jonathan Ford BA (QTS) 6B Form Tutor

Whole School Maths Subject Leader

Mrs Victoria Welch, BA Hons)GTP/ 6C Head of KS2 Mrs Krystle Eggins BSc (Hons) PGCE SMT

Designated Safeguarding Person

NQT Mentor

Staff Induction

PSHE Subject Leader Form Tutor

Mrs Krystle Martin-Eggins BSc (Hons) PGCE 6C Form Tutor

Mrs Helen Lowth BSc PGCE KS2

Mrs Judith Dunmore, BA (Hons) PGCE KS2

Ms Gabrielle Walton-Green BA PGCE KS2

Ms Samantha Grover NNEB KS2

Mrs Sacha Green Cache level 3

Mrs Loraine McDougall NVQ level 4

Ms Sonia Lapena

Miss Zoie Humphreys RCN (Registered Sick Children’s Nurse) All years

Mr John Hammett

All years

General subjects (part time)

General subjects (part time)

French Teacher (part time)

Teaching Assistant

Paediatric First-Aider

Swimming Teacher

Teaching Assistant & Breakfast Club Assistant Paediatric First Aider Teaching Assistant & Breakfast Club Assistant Teaching Assistant/Forest School

Junior School Nurse Paediatric First Aider

Junior School Keeper Fire Officer

Learning Support

Mrs Gill Fisher HND OCR Level 7 Cert SpLD

Mrs Dawn France BA (Hons)

All years

EYFS & KS1

Ms Amelia Spinney BSc PGCE PG Dip Systemic Theory KS2

Mrs Anna Hamburger BA (Hons) PGCE OCR Level 7 Cert KS2

Mrs Katia Gerard BA (Hons) HLTA level 4 KS2

Cache level 2NQT, Level 3 Diploma specialist support

Mrs Isabella Warnke BA (Hons) MA PGCE KS1

Music Department

Director of Learning Support

SMT

Learning Support Teacher

Deputy DSL

Learning Support Teacher (part time)

Learning Support (part time)

Teaching Assistant for SEN (full time)

Learning Support Teacher

Mrs Ruth Hall BA (Hons) PGCE All years Teacher (part time)

Mrs Melanie Metherell BA (Hons) PGCE All years Teacher (part time) Music Subject Leader

PE & Games Department

Miss Sarah Manzi BA (Hons)

All years

Head of Swimming

Mr Andrew Knowles All years Head of PE and Games

Mr Luke Kimberley All years

Ms Ruby Hughes KS2

Wrap Around Care

Mrs Claire Wilks NVQ Level 3 All years

Wrap Around Care Manager

Paediatric First Aider

Additional Staff

Mrs Pamela Pin EYFS & KS1

Mrs Sandra Simmons EYFS & KS1

Ms S Parkes KS2

Late-School Supervisors EYFS/KS1

Paediatric First Aider

Late School Staff

Mr David Hamilton KS2 Paediatric First Aider

Miss Charley Giles KS2

Late School Staff

JUNIOR SCHOOL

In her address to the Chairman of Governors, Headmaster, parents and children on Tuesday 5 July, our outgoing Head of KS2, Mrs Victoria Welch, set out her recollections of the past year and the significant events within it:

During Sports Day, I had a conversation with a pupil who perhaps would not characterise this event as one of their favourites. “Why do we have to do it?” they asked. Responding with what I hope was an encouraging and empathic tone, I explained that this was an opportunity to be part of the team, a chance to persevere when we are taken outside of our comfort zone, a chance to find out whether we can succeed at something that we’re not sure we can do; in fact, it is fun! Despite their misgivings, I am glad to say that this pupil did persevere and went on to achieve in their own way, against their own benchmark, and had a thoroughly enjoyable day. It was a reminder for me of those times when I was a similar age, when my father, a very keen mountain walker, would lead us up Scottish and Welsh peaks and, much like the pupil I spoke to, I would question the point of endlessly walking up mountains when the only enjoyable bit, as far as I was concerned, was when we stopped for a chance of another slice of Kendal Mint Cake. But I grew to love it, to love the mountains, to love the experience of joy when you get to the peak and, weather notwithstanding, being able to witness the views so vast and beautiful. And it was a valuable lesson: to keep going, to persevere no matter how hard it might be – the view will be worth it, as so many of our children have found on outdoor pursuits across the year.

on the challenges presented by the pandemic, this year has been about emerging from this and I have the greatest admiration for the courage and resilience that all members of our community have demonstrated. We did not just survive, we have grown together and thrived.

Our curriculum has taken our pupils on journeys far and wide. From imaginary universes to the frozen north, from Texas to the Amazon rainforest, from Egypt to Iceland our children have fallen in love with, cheered for, empathised with and followed characters as they grapple with themes of friendship, fear, hope, determination, tolerance and discrimination, love and courage. We have even staged a spectacular reconstruction of the Great Fire of London in school with real flames!

Times like ours when the world is changing almost faster than we can bear and yesterday’s knowledge is made obsolete by today’s, we cannot simply give our children a map of the future ,but we can give them a compass that will allow them to navigate tomorrow, the inner compass we call character. At the heart of all that we do in the Junior School lies this pursuit of teaching our children the values and virtues that they will need to lead a happy and successful life. And whilst I do not wish to dwell

World Book Day gave everyone a chance to immerse themselves in a favourite character and who knew that dressing up as a piece of slime would get the attention of David Walliams!

NSPCC Number Day gave everyone opportunities to further hone their skills in problem solving and reasoning whilst also raising money for charity.

Growth and the awe and wonder of it, was the theme celebrated throughout the school in Science Week, whilst the expertise of one of our knowledgeable parents recently inspired our Year 5s in learning about minerals. And finally, this year we got to go on trips; for example, to the LSO, The Globe, the Royal Observatory, Dulwich Picture Gallery, the Prince Philip Maritime Collection Centre.

And live music events have returned to entertain us this year – we have borne witness to some wonderful performances by our pupils; most notably, our soloists at the regular teatime concerts and some beautiful performances by the chamber choir, both with the Senior School and independently, as well as the historic and significant performance during the Thames Festival Jubilee Concert at Buckingham Palace, where 15 singers from Year 5 performed as part of a massed choir for the

Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations. Year 5 also further entertained us with a fantastic performance of Jonah-Man Jazz.

Live drama has returned – the Year 3 and 4 performance of Cinderella was delayed, but well worth the wait. We were treated to a sparkling, beautifully staged, acted and performed alternative version of this fairytale.

Of course, there was a Year 6 production too: we found out that Shakespeare Rocks!

Sport, also a victim of the pandemic, has made a strong resurgence with a full competitive fixture list and all pupils in Key Stage 2 being given the opportunity to represent the school.

A fully coeducational programme of team and individual sports has given pupils the opportunities to shine and develop their skills. Highlights include the U11 boys’ football team competing at IFSA and the U11 girls’ football team achieving runners up in the IAPS plate competition.

Our cricketers have also proven that they are a force to be reckoned with, with several pupils gaining selection for district and county sides as well as a few having the opportunity to represent the Senior School as well.

In individual sports we have had much success including great performances in Years 4, 5 and 6 at the South of the River Gala. The Year 5 boys’ cross-country team demonstrating grit and strength with wins at both Merton Court and Farringtons.

Outdoor Pursuits, Sports Day, our Summer Fair, the many House events and activities, Clubs, Art, Break Time, Mr Rogers’ Head’s Award Stickers, our Ukrainian friends joining us at Colfe’s – were named as some of the highlights by our pupils.

Our pupils have much to be proud of - and the many talents and strengths that we do not always get to see at school and which lie under the bonnet, add to the diversity and breadth - we have a champion golfer, a champion tennis player, wind surfers, divers, acrobatic dancers, gymnasts, skiers, climbers, cyclists (both BMX and mountain and including one pupil cycling 100km to raise money for charity). We have drummers, electric guitar players, photographers, cooks, and rocket launchers. We can speak a number of languages - Japanese, Swedish, Turkish, Urdu, Chinese, Hindi, Gujarati and Ukrainian to name but a few.

What matters in the long run is our ability to persist, learn from our mistakes, behave so as to earn the trust of others, to be able to listen, to be loyal and honest and most of all; just to keep going.

As Winston Churchill once said, “Success is going from failure to failure without loss of enthusiasm”.

Sue Gurr, Deputy Head

CHARITIES REPORT

FRIEND IN DEED

On Friday 15 October Orion House held an ‘own clothes’ day in school, in order to raise funds for their chosen charity “Friend in Deed”, a UK based organisation aimed at creating friendships across generations. A grand total of £700 was raised for this charity and we are very proud of Orion for the organisation of this wonderful event.

CHILDREN IN NEED

This year the children in Lynx House chose to champion BBC Children in Need appeal for their charity focus and invited all Junior School children to take part in a ‘spotty’ themed event by dressing up in spotty clothing on Friday 5th November. Joe Wicks became the first ever Schools Ambassador for the charity and this resulted in the children enjoying a range of sporty activities on the day. £925 was raised for this worthy charity and Lynx were delighted to have played their part in making a massive difference to the lives of children and young people in need across the UK.

UKRAINE APPEAL

Pegasus House voted to fund raise for the British Red Cross in Ukraine, with all monies raised used to provide emergency assistance for food, shelter and water, as well as personal hygiene kits, and we are so proud of Pegasus for having raised £1158.50 for this most worthy cause. This was an ‘own clothes’ event with a focus on wearing an item of red clothing. In school we find that laughter is often the best form of medicine in that it draws us together as a school community and always lifts our spirits. Children in the Junior School came into school with a pre-prepared joke or riddle to tell their class, and the corridors echoed to the sound of laughter all afternoon.

NSPCC NUMBER DAY

SUMMER FAIR

On Friday 1st July the Junior School held their annual Summer Fair, this year raising money for the British Red Cross in Ukraine. KS2 was a hive of activity on the morning of the fair, with children busy creating a wide range of fun activities and entertainment for the younger children. We enjoyed a sunny afternoon and raised a spectacular £2,300. The Fair is always an eagerly anticipated date in our calendar, and a fantastic time was had by all.

On Friday 14 May, Aquila House organised a mega maths fundraising day. Across the Junior School children were asked to make number badges. Some classes were creative in their planning for this event and produced edible badges and number cakes. Children across the Junior School were encouraged to have fun with numbers and wear into school items of number themed clothing and the magnificent sum of £464.70 was raised for the NSPCC charity.

FOREST SCHOOL

The children relish their Forest School sessions, in which they engage with activities involving risk, problem solving and self-discovery, whether through tree climbing, fire lighting or working with others to plant new crops.

A YEAR LONG WORK TO BEE PROUD OF!

celebrate the children’s learning achievements in many ways, including through our special ‘Work to be Proud of ‘Headteacher’s Award’

CINDERELLA

EYFS & KS1 SPORTS DAY

KS2 SPORTS DAY

ART SHOW