55 minute read
NEWS FROM THE HOUSES
from Raven 2022
BARLOW
Head of House: Sebastian Strachwitz Hamilton Deputy Head of House: Shotaro Ida House Prefects: Benjamin Harwood, Dominic Kwan, Edward Preston, Montague Mathew, Zak Dinning
I would like to thank Sebastian Strachwitz Hamilton and Ben Harwood for completing the summary of the year below. We all wish our leavers every success as they move on to new challenges. On behalf of the House and myself I would also like to thank our House Parent, Ms Jayne Lewis for her devoted service to the wellbeing of Barlow’s boys and pupils in general over the last few years. Her immense experience in youth services and her warmth and professionalism in the House have been so appreciated by us all. We wish her every success as she returns to troubleshoot for Somerset’s Youth Connect.
The year of 2021/22 started off with our arrival into a transition period, as the country, School and House began to move past the Covid-19 restrictive period, although we have faced many challenges along the way, this year was filled with great happiness, success and, of course, challenging moments that we can draw upon in our future endeavours, as such we have created many excellent memories that both our leavers and remaining pupils will carry forward fondly. We arrived back to the beautiful countryside in September 2021 where we immediately started to reintegrate as the community that is Barlow House. Barlow had a notable head start, facilitated, in part, by our House layout of social, kitchen and office situated on the ground floor with accommodation primarily vertically above this. This allowed us to interact with each other much more closely and get to know each other better during occasions like Saturday’s feast and film night, a Barlow tradition that other Houses cannot quite seem to match. This is what allowed us to undergo the process much faster and more successfully than our counterparts, which has been enormously beneficial for the Barlow boys and our guests’ wellbeing and morale.
At the core of this process was Mr Potter, our House Master or simply ‘Potter’ as he has become affectionately known, who now, after some 30 years in Downside, has become one of the cornerstones on which our community is built. In our opinion Barlow house leads the way in demonstrating support for Benedictine values and looking out for others in the School community which has been essential in our transition year. He has pushed us as a House to take
an active role in service leadership that this school so well instils in the pupils here. Simply put: Barlow House is always present for any challenges, events, competitions or support of activities on offer. Whether this is in an Inter-House competition, a DofE or Ten Tors Team or other aspects of school. We don’t quit and we always participate. This was demonstrated many times throughout the year. The House rugby competition was a ‘moral victory’ achieved through a fantastic team effort, leaving everything out there on the field of play. We then had the Christmas Dash which saw Zak Dinning (our House eating champion, and mother to all of the other boys), inhale his food so fast that he was awarded a cap by Mr Jones for his efforts! Barlow have also done tremendously well in the Inter-House debates to bring about a welldeserved overall victory for which special thanks and acknowledgement must go to Aristo Cham, our debating champion and Captain! He was supported by Justin Wu, Oliver Flynn and Jude Bennett. We also gave an excellent effort in the Inter-House Hockey again showing up with the most House supporters. Our Chess Captain, Luis Tang, fresh from winning the Somerset intermediate Chess Tournament (a threeday chess marathon!), took Barlow within a whisker of Inter-House victory only to be denied by a technicality.
In music this year, Barlow has had its usual fair share of success. One of the most notable achievements would be the outstanding performance of The Carnival is Over, arranged by Barlow’s very own Mr McNamara and performed by Jan Peterson (Fifth Form) and Justin Wu (Fourth Form), led by Dominic Kwan (Upper Sixth Form), claiming back the title and hopefully beginning another four-year part song win streak for the House. This year’s external judge, Sarah Kettlety, stated that overall, Barlow gave ‘a great, fun filled performance!’. Pupils of Barlow have also been active in a variety of groups and bands. Dom Kwan and Ivan Boas-Syed in the Function Band, performing at various events such as the Charity Showcase and The Evening of Love, which saw everyone dressed up in full blacktie. The Chamber Choir has been on multiple outings across the South of the UK, with newer members such as Jan Peterson and Max Su taking part, showing promise for the future of Barlow’s representation in the choir. George Moorhouse, Luis Tang and Jude Bennett will also be reforming the Barlow Band with many of the above next year.
In graded exams, Barlow saw many successes, with Jan Peterson completing his Grade 8 piano with a distinction, and Dom Kwan completing his Grade 8 singing, not only being awarded a distinction, but also setting a new Downside record of 142 marks out of 150, the highest mark to be awarded to a Downside pupil across all grades and instruments. Dom also participated in the Music for a Summer’s Evening before the May/June Half Term by performing on all three of his instruments throughout the evening; firstly, playing the famed “Vivaldi: Winter” from the Four Seasons, then singing with the Downside Close Harmony Group a rendition of the Beatles’ Yesterday, a piano performance with the Function Band and topping it all off with an open-mic solo of Evermore from the most recent Beauty and the Beast. Barlow has had excellent representation in music this year, and many pupils show strong signs of carrying the torch forward next year.
All of our achievements this year would not have been possible to such an extent without our House staff, as they continue to support, and facilitate our progress. Mr Potter in addition to everything else, makes sure we are hospitable to our guests, insisting we offer tea and biscuits! Our House Parents Ms Lewis and Mrs Mossman who are always there to support and guide us through our adolescent ways. Ms Lewis never looks for our weaknesses but always our strengths and her approach has been invaluable for us all and she will be sadly missed next year. Mrs Mossman, who joined us this year, we also thank for managing us and for helping all of the boys tackle their individual challenges throughout the year. We must also thank and recognise Mr Hicks (our House sergeant major who patrols the corridors of Barlow at night fiercely looking for silly little children venturing to each other’s accommodation at unreasonable times!). Mr O’Rourke who is always keeping us true to our House spirit and Benedictine values, something which is incredibly important in our community environment. He also oversees our School Lectio communities and Barlow’s membership of St John’s, Vincent Tickell, Yvo Melotte, Ivan Boas, Nayan Danhawoor and Oliver Flynn and St Luke’s, Alexander Di Pietrantonio do much to foster and support our ethos. Mr Nichols must also claim a very honourable mention, our Deputy House Master for keeping House assemblies short, and ensuring we are all very well looked after. Tammy Hurle, Barlow’s domestic manager is also appreciated for keeping us all shipshape and organised. All our year groups were well represented in various school teams and this year’s Fourth Form intake were no exception with George Buhagiar, Johnny Rowell, Edward Howlett and Daniel Flynn leading the way in all three terms. Fourth Formers Patrick Colgan and Max Su also completed the gruelling Ten Tors event on Dartmoor and Joe Last-Sutton led the senior team. Barlow’s contribution and honours for Downside 1st Team appearances go to:
Rugby 1st XV – Zak Dinning, Samuel Bellord, Shotaro Ida, Sebastian Norris, Roy Manso-Duffy, Sebastian Strachwitz Hamilton, Ivan Boas Syed, Joe Last-Sutton, Nicolas Viljoen. Zak Dinning & Nicolas Viljoen also with Bath Rugby honours. Hockey 1st XI – Benjamin Harwood, Samuel Bellord, Shotaro Ida, Joe Last-Sutton, Ivan Boas Syed, Nicolas Viljoen Football 1st XI – Vincent Tickell, Ivo Melotte, Sebastian Mitton Cricket 1st XI – Zak Dinning, Samuel Bellord, Joe Last-Sutton, Nicolas Viljoen (also with County honours) Tennis 1st VI – Ben Harwood (Capt), Henry Wong, Oliver Flynn, Yvo Melotte, Josu Vallancey D’Estampes, Daniel Flynn Badminton 1st V1 – London Leung, Henry Wong, Andy Lam, Max Su Basketball 1st X11 – Andy Lam, Luis Tang, CJ Rapoo Table Tennis 1st VI – London Leung (Capt), Henry Wong Swimming U18 – Luis Tang, Sebastian Mitton, Jason Lai
The Barlow boys have enjoyed the return to a full set of team fixtures against other schools this year. Notably the 1st XV Rugby won seven out of their ten
fixtures with Barlow pupils leading the way. Moreover, Zak Dinning and Nicolas Viljoen can also claim Bath Rugby Honours. The Hockey Team had an enjoyable season to which the boys from Barlow got through the shattering weather and played a significant role in the performances. The Tennis Team was dominated by Barlow Boys, as it always is, with Mr O’Rourke and Mr Potter leading the coaching! We hope the boys from Barlow can continue the tradition of achieving their best on the sports field throughout the years to come. Barlow’s strength is the level of commitment that the boys bring to the event whether representing House or School, they do so to the best of their ability. This was reflected this year with our involvement in the Clay Pigeon Shooting Club with Teddy Preston (Capt), and Montague Mathew who practiced once a week at the Mendip Shooting Ground. They both went on to compete at the Mendip shooting competition against our rival schools including Harrow, Millfield, Bruton and many more with a total of 29 different school teams of which Downside came sixth. The Club has recently had an inflow of new keen shots from Barlow with the younger years taking an interest including Victor Bennet in the current Fifth Form who has shown an outstanding level of accuracy and will certainly continue to carry the shooting flag for the House in the years to come.
After all the successes and encouraging levels of participation this year across the board Barlow can feel proud of what we have accomplished together. The year has allowed each and every Barlow House pupil to feel involved, included and happy that they have had the opportunity to give their best and contribute to both the House and School community. This year sees another batch of pupils leave from the Upper Sixth Form and we also bid farewell to Nicolas Viljoen (Fifth Form) and Juan Garcia-Manrique (Fourth Form) and wish them every success. We also wish all those who took external exams (for the first time for many of us) every success with their results. Although it is an incredibly emotional occasion to be leaving our House and Downside, Barlow has left us all feeling ready to face future challenges and opportunities in the best spirit possible with a resilience and strong sense of community that Barlow House has instilled in us. We leave you with appointments for next year, memories and a farewell from the Upper Sixth on the evening of our Ball.
Sebastian Strachwitz Hamilton and Benjamin Harwood Upper Sixth Form
CAVEREL
Head of House: Sophia Burton Deputy Head of House: Sophie Worrall House Prefects: Stephanie Jedy-Agba, Maddie Jones, Magda Pienkowska, Chloe Ngan
Head of House It is always sad to say goodbye to the Upper Sixth and this year we lose some amazing pupils whose contributions to the House will have a long-lasting effect. This was brought home very starkly during our Prefect interviews where girl after girl cited the positive impact our Upper Sixth have had and the legacy they leave. This year, Sophia Burton headed up the team and her passion and enthusiasm for all things Caverel exuded from her very core! Sophia effortlessly brought the House together in this crucial postCovid-19 time and she has made friendships across all year groups.
Sophia writes: This academic year we have been lucky that we haven’t been disrupted by any lockdowns and that coming back in September there were fewer restrictions. This allowed us to unite as a House from the beginning of the year, something that last year’s Upper Sixth didn’t have the opportunity to do, and I am very proud of how all the girls bounced back into school whether they were new or old pupils. As Head of House, I have seen each girl give their all, whether that be sport, academics, or music.
Deputy Head of House Sophie Worrall was Deputy Head of Caverel this year, but the decision was so impossible that we saw Sophie and Sophia as more a team of leaders and this is precisely how they acquitted themselves. Sophie’s calm and capable leadership and her unstinting support of staff and pupils was the perfect complement.
Sophie writes: Being Deputy Head of Caverel has been an amazing experience and one that I won’t forget. It has challenged me and put me out of my comfort zone, but most importantly it has been incredibly rewarding. I have made close connections with the girls and staff in Caverel, and I have been able to work beside Head of House Sophia, and I feel that we have made a very strong team. I will miss Caverel being my home for the past four years, but it will always have a very special place in me.
House Prefects Our Prefect team was small in number but mighty in impact! Stephanie Jedy-Agba was, of course, Head of School this year and we also benefitted from her incredible leadership in Caverel House. She was Chair of the Abingdon Society and, although her debating prowess didn’t lead us to victory this year, she was an amazing role model for our younger debaters to learn the ropes. Maddie Jones took charge of our younger pupils in her role as Deputy Head of Juniors as well as being our Sports Captain. Her organisation, enthusiasm and powers of persuasion were a wonder to behold. Magda Pienkowska was International Prefect and her focus on charity and inclusion have been tremendously powerful and a real credit to her. Chloe Ngan assisted Magda in this role and worked quietly to support a number of pupils throughout the year. The Prefects gave Caverel their energy and commitment and certainly ensured that the notorious House parties continued in the same spirit of fun and mayhem that Caverel has come to expect.
The Caverel girls have had a tremendously successful year of sport, consistently showing their passion and positivity in every sports event that has taken place throughout the academic year. Inter-House hockey was a competitive and enjoyable experience, with all years supporting one another. Numerous wins from every year group were well deserved and secured the final victory for Caverel House. Inter-House netball also resulted in a Caverel win, with the girls exhibiting a remarkable amount of effort and skill.
Many individual accomplishments should be noted, such as the success of the tennis programme, with the participation of Fourth Former Antonia Weckerle, competing in the 1st Team Tennis, in the first pair. A brilliant achievement. Lower Sixth Former, Anna Hayhurst, was awarded the players player award for her outstanding performance in the 1st Netball Team. Lower Sixth Former Laila Akenzua Al-Kareem was also awarded a prestigious cap for her skilful and passionate leadership skills, exhibited in her role as the Captain of the 1st Netball Team. Every Netball Team had a captain from Caverel House, with Fifth Former Katie Pughe-Morgan as captain of the 2nd Netball Team and Lower Sixth Former, Oliwia Malek, as captain of the 3rd Team. All led their teams with passion, enthusiasm, and brilliant leadership. Third Former, Rosie Rooney, is our resident golfer and has recently become the youngest player to ever reach the match play semi-finals of Hampshire Ladies Championship. A massive congratulations to her. Fourth Former, Zara Bellord, has qualified for the School Equestrian Games Championships after performing extremely well in her events. Several Caverel girls participated in the U15 Netball County Tournament earlier in March, achieving third place, after a competitive and skilful day against various other schools.
A standout event for the Caverel girls was the OG Netball match which took place back in March and saw many OG Caverel girls return to play current girls in a fabulous afternoon of fun. Inter-House Athletics day 2022 was a brilliant way to end the year and was full of positive and encouraging energy from staff and pupils in Caverel. The famous Caverel spirit was stronger than ever, and the event, although not a victory, was a terrific send off for the Upper Sixth, being their last Sports Day at Downside.
This year has been full of successful musical events, most notably the Inter-House Music Competition. Sophie Worrall has summarised our musical year: Music is a massive part of life at Downside and there are many musical performances throughout the year as well as the highly competitive music competition. As always,
the Caverel girls put on quite a show after weeks of hard work and commitment. We took to the stage with three show stopping songs. Starting with a rendition of Blackbird by the Beatles as our a capella part song, where the girls sang beautifully in harmony. Next, the girls stunned the audience with the House hymn, Servant King which was sung with grace and delicacy. To finish, the girls sang Suddenly I See (KT Tunstall) which blew the audience away. The dance routine, after a lot of practicing, was a triumph and the girls couldn’t stop smiling throughout! It wouldn’t have been such a success without our brilliant musicians to accompany our songs, including Jess Hall from First Form on the harp, Alessandria Majendie and Emma de Pelet on the violin, Roksana Pieronkiewicz with her tambourine, Ciara Millington on the guitar, Chloe Ngan on the xylophone and Magda Pienkowska playing both the guitar and piano. All of this hard work paid off and Caverel won the prize for the best hymn, best unison and won the competition overall! The Upper Sixth girls hope this winning streak continues!
The theatre performances have also been a great success this year. The Junior years performed The Changing Room, with memorable performances from Caverel girls Rosie Rooney, Emma de Pelet, Amelie Murphy and Cecily Raper. The Evening of Love showed many great performances with the theme of ‘love’ at its centre. Sophie Worrall and Magda Pienkowska wowed with a wonderful piece from La La Land. Sophia Burton, Chloe Ngan, Hoi Ling Tang, Stephanie Jedy-Agba, Anna Hayhurst and Maddie Jones joined them performing their rendition of songs from Mamma Mia which put a great smile on everyone’s face. Stephanie Jedy-Agba, Marie-Charlotte Reiderer and Gladys Chieg all danced beautiful ballet solos. Chloe Ngan teamed up with two Isabella girls to blast out some K-Pop dance moves and a fantastic number from Chicago showcased the talents of Ebanehita Eigbefoh and Roksana Pieronkiewicz. Alessandria Majendie and Ciara Millington both fronted Function Band showing off their wonderful voices. The variety of performances showed how incredible and diverse the musical talent here at Downside is.
Caverel girls feel very strongly about helping others and their sense of service has been extremely strong. Magda has written about Caverel’s charitable ethos. This year, Caverel has had a chance to support Daughters of Eve Charity. Thanks to selling Caverel water bottles, opening our own Caverel tuck shop, and selling mugs at House at Home, we’ve raised nearly £500.
We didn’t just want to talk about our charity within the House, but make sure it is tangible. Sophia and Sophie, our Heads of House, gave an amazing speech during Hymn Practice, about the importance of health rights for women. They made Caverel proud by raising awareness within the School and encouraging everyone to fight such issues. It has not only shown how much Caverel cares about fighting gender inequality, but also it has given us an opportunity to show how strong we stand in our beliefs. Additionally, thanks to the help of our Caverel parents, we gathered donations like clothes and first-aid products, to support the current situation in Ukraine.
“It took me quite a long time to develop a voice, and now that I have it, I am not going to be silent.” Madeleine Albright
There has been an extraordinary standard of debating from the Caverel girls across all ages and Caverel has come up against some tough opposition in the Abingdon Inter-House Debating Competition, the first of which being Smythe where Caverel opposed the motion “This House would support JK Rowling” with Stephanie Jedy-Agba and Sophia Burton arguing convincingly, earning a well-deserved win!
The Caverel debating team, also included: Camilla Francis-Jones, Anna Hayhurst, Oliwia Malek, Maya Strauss, and Magda Pienkowska. Stephanie commended her team ‘for their excellent skill and the gracefulness in which they composed themselves even when faced with a tough opposition or a rowdy audience. Often the girls have been challenged with controversial motions that they don’t necessarily agree with, however, I have no doubt in saying that they collected themselves with an admirable decorum that was rewarded by the judges. Our final debate was against Barlow where Caverel opposed the motion “This House values law more than religion”. Sadly, Barlow was awarded the victory and despite Caverel not making it into the debating final, we are extremely proud of all the girls who represented and supported Caverel.
As a House full of very strong female voices, we thought it necessary to celebrate International Women’s Day by helping others understand the significance of the event. Isabella teamed up with Caverel to broaden discussion within the School and to help promote individual responsibility for challenging stereotypes, fighting bias, improving situations and perceptions, and celebrating women’s achievements. We highlighted the fact that this day is to promote gender equality and we received many positive responses.
The success of the girls and the smooth running of the House would not be possible without the excellent pastoral care of the entire team. Miss Price has been a fabulous, enthusiastic, and selfless assistant and we all wish her the greatest success as she moves on to Wycliffe College to run her own House. Miss Ackerley has been so taken with her role as Resident Tutor that we are delighted that she is staying another year. The House would not function (and neither would the staff) without the inimitable and incredibly multi-talented House Parents, Ms Jones, and Mrs Buckland and of course Lorna, Caverel’s resident cleaner goes above and beyond to support us all.
Anna McGarry House Mistress of Caverel
New House Awards The highly coveted House socks were awarded this year for those girls who consistently sported the correct uniform, and we hope our worthy recipients inspire others next year! Daisy Radcliffe, Amelie Murphy, Lucia McNally, and Marie Papachrysanthou stood out for staff and Prefects.
House Caps House Caps were awarded to Sophia Burton, Sophie Worrall, Stephanie Jedy-Agba, Madeleine Jones, Magda Pienkowska and Chloe Ngan for their leadership and representing the House in so many ways throughout the year. Elinor Perkins was awarded a House Cap for unstinting and generous service to the House.
House Colours House Colours were awarded to Camilla FrancisJones, Oliwia Malek, Maya Strauss and Anna Hayhurst for representing the House in debating.
ISABELLA
Head of House: Beth Mitton Deputy Head of House: Conchi Manso Duffy House Prefects: Marianna Ceglarek, Alice Colgan, Maria Dolman, Amelia Evans, Celestine Healy, Lydia Kelsh
This year marked a return to almost normal life in Isabella. Although things may not have been the ‘normal’ we remember, we’ve been extremely lucky throughout this year. On the first day back, the Lower Sixth returning as Upper Sixth were ecstatic to be able to see each other in person again, when we all came together to prepare for everyone’s arrival the next day. Mrs Westlake actually managing to fix the printer when it broke, was a sign that it was going to be a good year.
One of the great things about being almost back to normal this year was the Common Room. This isn’t because it is one of the cosiest ones in the School but because we could once again mix with all year groups and make the most of each other’s company. In Isabella, there are endless activities that happen throughout the week, but the Common Room is also a place where you can relax and just chat. It is guaranteed that, on arrival, there will be someone in the Common Room who will offer you a cup of tea at some point. On the first Saturday night back, we had our annual House party. This year we asked everyone to come as something that starts with the initial of their name. Costumes ranged from Coco the cupcake and Conchi the Cloud, to Cecilia the celebrity, whose acting skills impersonating Justin Bieber were also noteworthy. The Eurovision party was another event this year that enabled us to celebrate and appreciate the diversity within the House. Singing karaoke on Saturday evenings has been another weekly event not to miss. We have successfully managed to reach the end of the year with no-one confiscating it from us! This is surprising as we have been told many times that they can hear us over in Barlow. It is also surprising that Mr Westlake hasn’t kicked any of us out yet because of it. Not only do Saturday nights give all year groups a chance to go to bed a bit later but it is also an opportunity to hang out with girls from different years and eat the amazing food which the House team puts so much effort into preparing for us each week. There are many other activities taking place at weekends including ice skating,
mountain biking trips and scuba diving in the School pool. We have visited the Fashion Museum in Bath and of course done lots of shopping. We could not sum up the year without a mention of the annual trip to Brean Leisure Park, where rides were enjoyed, and much candyfloss eaten! Each girl within Isabella House has made the most of each opportunity throughout the year and enjoyed doing new things whilst making new friendships.
As a House, we have the opportunity to compete in Inter-House competitions together, ranging from music and drama, to games, debating and the Christmas Dash. We are very proud to say that we ended this year on a high by winning Sports Day. Isabella also managed to win the Christmas Dash this year, partly due to our many fast runners and Conchi’s determination not to be beaten by a chocolate-covered Brussels sprout. We were also incredibly proud of our House debating team this year, led by Sofia and Edith. A number of girls participated in debates for the first time and, despite being narrowly beaten by Barlow in the finals, the girls showed incredible determination and tackled some extremely challenging questions over the course of the competition. This year was also the first year in many that a girls’ team made it through into the Chess Final. Led by Maria and Pui Yin, the Isabella girls have all taken their chess practice very seriously in the run up to the event. Most halves and teas they could be found deep in discussion at our large chess board in the Common Room. From Inter-House Music to Sports Day, no matter what the outcome, it is guaranteed that Isabella will always be there to support and encourage everyone.
The Inter-House Music Competition was long anticipated, as we had missed out on it in previous years due to Covid-19. It is safe to say that it lived up to our expectations. The countless rehearsals in preparation for the big day gave us opportunities to form relationships with girls across all year groups and gave us an insight into the hidden talent we have in Isabella. It was a chance for us to perform on stage and showcase the diverse personalities within our House. Everyone’s attitude towards rehearsals and the evening itself was remarkable – the perseverance, resilience and positive outlook gave our performance real spirit and energy. Our House song, When I Grow Up from Matilda, was chosen to make use of every year in the House. From the Juniors to the Upper Sixth, we could show the unique relationships in Isabella. Through the song, we aimed to explore what it means to be grown up and emphasise the transition from childhood to adulthood. We also performed the hymn Be still for the presence for the Lord and our part song, which was La Vie en Rose. This was sung a capella by a smaller group of Isabella girls and demonstrated their skill as it was a challenging arrangement that sounded superb. Overall, it was a very gratifying and exciting experience that we hope everyone enjoyed. Although we may not have won, we definitely put up a good fight and enjoyed working together.
Music is a huge part of daily life at Downside with Isabella House being well represented in various school groups from Choir and Concert Band to String Orchestra. Events throughout the year, such as The Evening of Love, have often featured Isabella girls taking centre stage. The Evening of Love showcased the talents and hard work of many across a range of music, dance, and drama. Notable performances came from many, including a beautiful performance of Sonnet 43 by Maria and a breath-taking rendition of Adele sung by Antonia. Other musical events this year, in which many girls in Isabella have taken part, include An Evening of Brass, which took place on Thursday 4th November, the special concert on Friday 21st January performed by the Chamber Choir at Wells Cathedral and the St Cecilia Concert which was another night to remember as an evening full of incredible music. On a smaller scale, Saturday night has also been ‘playlist night’ and we have been entertained throughout the year with some interesting music choices in the Common Room, whilst we enjoy our feast. A further notable musical achievement was the girls at the House at Home, who decided to busk to raise funds for our partner charity: well done to Jess and Lara, whose playing made a significant contribution to the fundraising event, and showing the versatility of our House musicians.
There have been many, many other events in which Isabella girls have actively taken part, which shows their ongoing commitment to do their best at whatever they do. A Fashion Show was organised by Ari and Scarlett: they worked on it for around six months and involved pupils from across the School as either models or designers and all the money they raised from this event was donated to UNICEF, which helps disadvantaged children all over the world. Some highlights of the evening include Lydia’s wonderful collection, inspired by the elements with pieces of incredibly high quality. Modelled by Lily and Conchi, also in the Upper Sixth, they brought these fabulous pieces to life. The Greek Goddess collections made by Scarlett based on Aphrodite, Persephone, Hecate, and Hera, were similarly impressive. Coco, Kara, and Maria also made two collections inspired by ancient female warriors, channelling their strength and unity into their performance. Isabella was also actively involved in organising International Women’s Day this year, the theme of which was BreakTheBias. This day promoted individual responsibility for challenging stereotypes, fighting bias, broadening perceptions, improving situations, and celebrating women’s achievements. This year we also had many Isabella girls taking part in Ten Tors on Dartmoor as well as Duke of Edinburgh award expeditions. All girls participating know that, whilst they are extremely challenging, they are equally rewarding. The Model United Nations Conference was also an event to which we sent representatives and we were given the chance to get a taste of the worthwhile undertaking of Politics. The issues discussed included Human Rights in Belarus and Period Poverty, both of which were discussed intently in different committees, such as Human
Rights and Health. Our interest in world issues was also highlighted by Amalia, who recently gave an extremely inspiring speech in Hymn Practice about global warming and the responsibility we have as part of the wider world. Isabella has continued to be actively involved in many of the Lectio groups in School as well as the St Teresa Community and the St Francis Community, where we have participated in sleepouts to raise funds for a local homeless charity, sold roses to raise funds for the British Heart Foundation and helped to promote recycling. Isabella continues to be a House that does much as part of the wider community.
A definite high point of this year was that we were able to host the first post Covid-19 House at Home. Having the chance to meet everyone’s family and put names to faces was also a highlight of the day as we were able to get to know the wider community beyond Isabella House at Downside. Beginning with Mass at the Abbey Church, we then had performances from some of our musicians followed by speeches from Mrs Westlake, Hanna Kedzior (I21), last year’s Head of House and Beth, Head of House, in the Gasquet, all of which focussed on the special place that Isabella has in all our hearts, even for those girls who have moved on from Isabella. We then decided to do something new… we invited everyone to join the House for our very first “Isabella House Fete”. The cloisters were filled with laughter and chatter as families enjoyed the events that the House had organised, from the human fruit machine, busking, guess the weight of the cake, the ladder game, and an impressive art exhibition and so much more. The day was one of the most memorable days for all of those in the Isabella community this year. The Fete made it a fun day for all, as well as allowing us to raise money for our chosen charity – “We Get it”, a small, local charity, based in Bath that provides a wide range of support for individuals and families who have been affected by cancer. It is a charity that is close to our hearts particularly as a number of our community have been affected by cancer and we believe this type of support is invaluable to those at all stages of diagnosis, treatment, remission, and recovery. The day came to a close with a delicious roast dinner and coffee back in Isabella.
Isabella has once again been well served by a dedicated Prefect Team. They have had to reinvent their roles in a new post Covid-19 world but have stepped up to the challenge admirably and worked hard to support the reintegration of the House after living in “bubbles” for the past few years. Beth Mitton has proven herself to be an outstandingly hard working and dedicated Head of House, who has always given of her time to support the House and everyone in it. Conchi Manso Duffy has supported Beth as Deputy Head of House, alongside the Prefect Team of Mariana Ceglarek, Alice Colgan, Mia Evans, Lydia Kelsh and Lara Standivan. Maria Dolman has been a fantastic Sports Captain and has done wonders to encourage participation in sports within the House, not just in Inter-House competitions, but in wider events, such as the Sunday evening football tournaments. Celi Healy led the House Music this year, and her musical ability has, without doubt, continued to encourage the strong musical tradition that we have in Isabella. They have all worked hard to contribute to the smooth running of the House. Their support this year has been invaluable and appreciated by both the staff and girls alike. The Head of First, Second and Third Form girls this year was Lily Garrett, who has worked hard to support the younger members of the House. All the Prefect Team have proven themselves to be excellent role models to all around them, with their dedication to their academic studies, whilst at the same time, serving the House and wider School community.
We continue to have the good fortune of an excellent House Team, who work hard to support the girls every single day. We have fantastic House Parents, who all carry out their individual duties to help keep the House running smoothly. Miss Ford and Miss Ball, alongside Mrs St Clair and Mrs Fry, do so much for all of us; we are forever grateful to
them for their unending patience. Miss Culverwell and Miss Johnson joined us as Resident Tutors this year, and their energy and enthusiasm has been very welcome. Their Saturday night disco and toastie time has become something of an Isabella institution that will be their legacy for years to come. The work of the Isabella tutors is something that we are very much appreciative of in Isabella: Miss Ball, Mrs Alcantara, Miss Anglim, Mrs Rainey, Dr Leatherbarrow, Mrs Williams, Mrs Spurling and Mrs Shaw can always be relied upon to go above and beyond in support of the girls both academically and pastorally. As ever, it is always with great sadness that we have to say goodbye at the end of the year. This year, we say farewell to Miss Johnson, who has been a great Resident Tutor over the past two years, we are not sure that anyone can replace her toastie making skills on a Saturday night! We also say farewell to Mrs Alcantara, who has been a dedicated Isabella tutor over the past few years. We are going to miss you but wish you well as you move to become Assistant House Mistress in Caverel House.
As we come to the end of another busy year in Isabella House and look back at everything we have done and achieved, it is truly heart-warming. Isabella has again proven itself to be so much more than just a boarding house. Isabella is a House with a strong identity and ethos. The Isabella spirit continues to shine through in every Isabella girl. Despite the challenges we may face, the embodiment of Benedictine values within Isabella will always be consistent. Isabella continues to mould us all into the people we want to become and being a part of Isabella is something that will remain with us all for a lifetime.
Karen Westlake House Mistress of Isabella
POWELL
Head of House (Deputy Head Boy): Angus Christie Deputy Head of House: Andy Lam House Prefects: Dylan Chan, Caspar Shaw, Alexander Di Pietrantonio, Freddie Whitaker, Tom Pike, Mathew Stanislas, Ivan Boas Syed, Sam Boas Syed, Luis Tang, Ayrton Rose, Joe Last Sutton, Archie Smellie
Another academic year has come to an end and, having recovered, I now realise that this group of boys proved to be one of the most dynamic, spirited and joyful groups with which I have had the pleasure to work. It is always difficult to balance the needs of the individual and achieve a strong sense of community. Since I arrived as Powell House Master, eight years ago, I have come to appreciate that the Benedictine ethos provides an excellent path to achieve this. We ask a lot of the boys in the first years of their senior school; I hope their experience has allowed them to get to know one another well, to develop lasting friendships and to grow in confidence, unafraid to express themselves freely amongst their peers, without inhibitions or embarrassment.
The boys have sustained a great deal of activity in a wide range of pursuits. In music, sport, CCF and various clubs and societies, I can only mention a few who stand out slightly from the 57 Powell boys this year. James Mason Carney, Ryan Kwok and Conrad Petersen have excelled on the music front. In particular, Henry Gogh was a valued member of the brass group and Inigo Quaife is making excellent progress on the bag pipes hopefully following in Owain Daley’s (R21)
(last year’s Head of House) shoes! Ryan Kwok played the ocarina at the Powell House at Home and brought the audience to tears with this magical instrument.
In a competitive and high achieving Third Form year group, Ian Cheung, Ned Jenkins, Ryan Kwok and Alva Kwan are commended for their high standards of academic work. The following boys were awarded prizes at Speech Day: Zuba Kwan (Head’s Progress Prize in Second Form), Ned Jenkins (Religious Studies and Chemistry), Ian Chung (Geography), Alexander Karl (Design) and Alva Kwan (Physical Education).
Enzo Blackmore showed himself to be an outstanding rugby player in the Foals Rugby XI. Rupert Tangent, Harry Garrett and Joshua Uhrmacher were fine members of the Hockey Team. Boris Priscott and Oscar Rooney had outstanding achievements on the cricket pitch with Oscar’s four wickets for six runs against Milton Abbey being a real highlight – not bad for a first former playing against boys in the Fourth Form! Louis Vallancey, Francis Mathew and Harry Garrett proved to be strong and plucky middledistance runners. Harry Garret who represented Somerset managed to reach the U14 National Cross-Country finals in Kent which was an outstanding achievement. Equally exciting was the annual sports day. In particular, Joshua Gathangu and Orson Greensmith performed very well in the 100m and 200m winning both their races.
On Sunday afternoons there was a great number of opportunities to discover new activities such as climbing, shooting, kayaking, paint balling, Brean, caving, adventure golf as well as the ever-popular trips to the beautiful city of Bath.
After months of instruction from Dom James and Paul Andrewartha, five boys were confirmed in the Abbey Church by the Bishop of Clifton, the Right Reverend Declan Lang. This was a special day for the confirmands, Enzo Blackmore, Hugh Jones, Henry Gogh, Alex Karl and Francis Mathew, their families, and friends. I thank the Chaplaincy Team for their individual help and support this year. In addition, Inigo Quaife, Luc Joy and Orson Greensmith received a very special baptismal service late in the Summer Term.
The Summer Term as always is very much enjoyed but at the same time is incredibly busy with so much to cram in. This term was no different. A large number of the Powell boys are involved in the production of Down the Rabbit Hole which will now be performed in September, and we await Seth Michael’s performance as ‘King’ with excitement.
On the last weekend of term, we took all the Third Form boys and girls away to Skern Lodge Residential Centre, in Appledore, Devon where they spent a long weekend participating in activities such as abseiling, surfing, raft building, power boating and kayaking. Great fun was had by all and the pupils had a chance to develop their teamwork and leadership skills as well as enjoy each other’s company as a year group before the end of term. I am very grateful to
all the staff who attended this trip, it is a real highlight for me as you get to see children having so much fun, embracing their fears and developing in confidence!
I would like to thank all the House staff, who worked ceaselessly to support the pupils; David Pollard, my Assistant House Master; Dave Bryson, Resident Tutor, our House Parents, Michelle Pollard and Tina Biberger; the Tutors and the Prefects, Angus Christie, and Andy Lam, who, with the Prefect Team, ensured the smooth operation of the House. Angus and Andy proved to be excellent role models, fulfilling their responsibilities, achieving excellent results, and engaging in a full and active school life in every respect. We thank them for their support in the House and wish them every success in their future endeavours. Thanks, would not be complete without mentioning the cleaning and maintenance staff, who operate tirelessly behind the scenes, battling through the mess the boys sometimes leave in their wake.
Finally, I would like to pay tribute to all the pupils I have had the pleasure of looking after during my eight-year tenure. They have made Powell House what it is: a place full of life and laughter, friendship, and fun. I am confident that Powell will be in safe hands with the new House Master, Mr Andy Hamilton, who joins us from Wycliffe College. I wish him and his family a warm welcome. In addition, Powell is fortunate to have Dylan Chan as Head of Powell and Caspar Shaw as Deputy next academic year. I know they will work tirelessly together following in the footsteps of Angus and Andy.
Jonathan Dolman House Master of Powell
ROBERTS
Head of House: Jacob Gould Deputy Head of House: Barney Sharifi Sports Captain: Ben Hart Guestmaster: Will Dewhurst Prefects: Joseph Day, Angus Christie, Jakub Milczarek, Ollie Wood, Jamie Shie, Roman Majendie, Louis Le Blan.
I am incredibly blessed to have joined Roberts House and, as my first year at Downside draws to a close, I feel remarkably settled into life in this beautiful setting, together with my wife and two children.
The sense of community and togetherness in Roberts House is palpable, and this is something I recognised immediately upon meeting a crosssection of the boys in the House when visiting the School, prior to even commencing the House Master role. The boys spoke so passionately about the attachment and affiliation they feel to the House, and it was clear they all wanted to contribute towards its success, supporting each other through the triumphs and challenges they encounter. They exhibited a genuine sense of happiness that they are a part of this community. This notion of belonging and unity is so important to me and so I was excited to get to work to maintain and enhance the Roberts House identity, feeling most honoured to have the opportunity to lead this brilliant House.
As the year began, I quickly realised the Roberts House community was even stronger than I had hoped and that this demanding vocation of being a House Master would be even more enjoyable. This was largely due to the fantastic team of staff with whom I have the pleasure of working.
Firstly, Dr Tapia, the finest Assistant House Master for whom we could ask and an ever-present source in House of extra help with mathematics; something of which the boys make regular and successful use! Also, our exceptional House Parents, Mrs Muse and Mrs Scott, who do so much for the boys every single day. They are so caring and always go above and beyond the call of duty to support our Roberts boys. Carol, our cleaner, is also an integral part of the House, working tirelessly to keep the place in tidy order and seeking to instil her unrivalled high standard of cleanliness in the boys! Finally, the tutor team made up of Mr Bryson, Fr Michael, Mr Rigby, Mr Jones and Mr Bevan. They
have been such a valuable source of support for staff and pupils through their commitment to tutoring and evening and day time duties. We really are very fortunate to have such a dedicated team of staff in Roberts.
We have had a very successful year in Roberts House, with sport a key area in which we have excelled. Roberts emerged as the overall winners of the Inter-House Rugby in the Michaelmas Term, with the Juniors storming to victory in their competition and the Seniors finishing as runnersup. We were similarly victorious in the Inter-House Hockey competition in the Lent Term, and it was again excellent to see so many Roberts boys involved. To round the sporting year off, we also finished top in the Inter-House Athletics, Sports Day event in the Summer Term. Ben Hart certainly deserves a special mention for his contributions as our Sports Captain this year and the enthusiasm he has brought to all these events and the way in which he has united the boys, organising teams and offering fantastic support, was certainly influential in bringing about our successes. What was most pleasing in all of this was the gracious manner in which the boys enjoyed their accomplishments, and I was so proud to see members of the Upper Six Prefect Team encouraging the rest of the House to ensure they acted with courtesy and propriety as the results were read out and during the celebrations which followed. One such individual who led by example in this regard was our Head of House, Jacob Gould, whose contributions to sport at Downside were further recognised as he was awarded the Cave Cup for Sportsman of the Year.
House Music was another competitively and joyfully contested event this year which united the House as we prepared to perform Justin Bieber’s song Baby. Louis Le Blan’s ability to enthuse the whole House on stage won him the prize for the Best Conductor in what was an entertaining and amusing performance as expected!
Led by Joseph Day and Barney Sharifi, and with valuable involvement from other members of the House, Roberts were again a force with which to be reckoned throughout the year in the Abingdon Debating Competition, narrowly missing out on a place in the final. Joseph and Barney also performed exceptionally well in a Model United Nations event this year, hosted by Bristol Grammar School, with Joseph being highly commended for his role as the delegate of Ireland in the very competitive Security Council, and Barney being highly commended as the delegate of Iran in the Health Committee.
In the latter stages of this busy and enthralling year, Roberts House were again victorious, this time in the Inter-House Chess competition! Led by our Chess Captain, Ryan Yuen, the boys defeated some tough competition and sealed first place, thereby winning the Chess Cup, awarded at Prize Day. One of our chess players, Alberto Wong, has also excelled in mathematics this year and should be further recognised for his achievement of a Gold Certificate in the UKMT Intermediate Mathematics Challenge, qualifying to take part in the Pink Kangaroo Challenge. This is a commendable achievement for someone in the Fourth Form.
Also deserving of a special mention is this year’s Head of Powell and Deputy Head of School, Angus Christie, who has been rewarded for his fantastic contribution to Downside School with a Gregorian Medal. A member of Roberts has now received this great honour for three consecutive years and Angus is a thoroughly deserving recipient. He embodies what Downside education is about and is a real credit to Roberts and the School. It was a real pleasure to see Angus leading the procession at the end of the Prize Day Mass on the feast day of St. Oliver Plunkett.
Other memorable events this year include the CCF Inspection Parade, in which a great many of the members of Roberts House were involved, and of course the Roberts House at Home. It was truly wonderful to be able to invite parents and guests back onsite to occasions such as this. The camaraderie present among the Roberts boys was again unmistakable and family and friends enjoyed a fantastic variety of acts and speeches ranging from a science workshop to musical performances. The sense of unity in the House has also been prevalent during our weekend socials in the House kitchen, where House staff have made burgers, milkshakes, or tacos for the boys, or, more excitingly, when pupils have been involved in the cooking, for example making dumplings to celebrate the Chinese New Year.
In addition to the upcoming end of year festivities they are about to enjoy as part of their send-off into the big, wide world, I want to say a huge thank you to this year’s Upper Sixth Form. They have been exemplary in their behaviour and leadership of the House and I know the boys in the younger years really look up to them. They have set the tone this year to create a caring and compassionate house of young men who look out for and support each other. They have really helped me and my family settle into life in Roberts and more widely at Downside and for this I am very grateful.
The Lower Sixth Form have matured immensely during the course of this year and really pulled together to form a tight-knit group of friends who work together well. I am greatly looking forward to working with them next year as they take on more responsibility in leadership and prefect roles at the top of the School, and I am confident they will do an excellent job of enriching the Roberts House identity and community spirit.
The Fifth Form have been a pleasure to work with this year and they are certainly a year group with real potential to thrive and flourish as they move into the Sixth Form. Like the Upper Sixth, they were disciplined in knuckling down to prepare for their public examinations and I wish them every success and happiness on results day!
The Fourth Form are a truly delightful group of young men and I am delighted to have joined Roberts House at the same time as them and to have the opportunity to see them through their time at Downside. They have thrown themselves into school life, embracing the many opportunities on offer and making the Fourth Form dormitory a happy AND TIDY(!!) place to be!
I wish everyone who is leaving the House at the end of this successful year all the best for the future, and I look forward to working with those who are remaining with us next year!
Josh Freeman House Master of Roberts
SMYTHE
Head of House: Abdul Khalik Akenzua Al-Kareem Deputy Head of House: Alex Dentskevich House Prefects: Ben Boas Syed, Inigo Cañellas, Jimmy Chow, Harry Clark, Archie Farthing, Louis Hansom, Gus Healey, Robert Keeley, Brian Makaza
Writing this year’s report on a glorious afternoon in late June to the sounds of laughter in the Quad and cricket bags being trundled through the House, it is easy to forget quite how much has changed over the course of this academic year. But, among the papers that have collected on my desk I find a terrible reminder that as recently as February we were quarantining pupils for up to ten days in Old Top if they tested positive for Covid-19. There was no guarantee at all that we would end the year quite so normally, but it is a tremendous joy that we do, with Downside’s first Giving Day, Three Days in June, Prize Day, and the Leavers’ Ball all to look forward to in the week ahead, all without limits on our ability to share together as a community, to exercise that Benedictine value of welcome which has felt so difficult during the pandemic.
The 1st XI, captained for a second consecutive year by Louis Hansom, have just gone on tour to Ampleforth. Smythe has provided a substantial number of cricket players to the Firsts this year: Harry Clark, Rob Keeley, Leo Matthews, Matthew Stanislas, Ivor Jones, Zach Healey, Tom Pike, and Charlie Hayhurst all representing the School at this level and enjoying tremendous sport on our glorious pitch with what must be the finest view that any Public School can boast. The House’s cricketing future seems secure, but so too our rugby and hockey. Rob Keeley was captain of the 1st XV, joined variously on the pitch by Abdul Khalik Akenzua Al-Kareem, Archie Farthing, Gus Healey, Harry Clark, Alex Dentskevich, Brian Makaza, Ivor Jones, Matthew Stanislas, Leo Matthews, Oliver Webb, Charlie Boarder, and Luke McGarry. We are proud of the hard work that Luke and Charlie have put in to ensure that they have been retained within the Bath Academy programme and celebrate with Khalik his award of a professional contract, again with Bath. On the Hockey pitch Smythe was represented at the highest levels by Robert Keeley, Inigo Cañellas, Jimmy Chow, Alex Dentskevich, Harry Clark, Louis
Hansom, Albermarle Cutbill, Oliver Webb, Tom Pike, Leo Matthews, Matthew Stanislas, Ayrton Rose, and Charlie Hayhurst.
At a House rather than School level, Smythe’s sporting successes this year have come in InterHouse Basketball and the Christmas Dash. Our Basketball team of Jimmy Chow, Inigo Cañellas, Daniel Kwok, Gus Healey, Archie Farthing, Ben Boas Syed, Andrew Ng, and Clovis Tari won clear victories over Roberts and Barlow in May, while the House’s win in assuredly the most prestigious of sporting competitions – the Dash – was made possible in December by a literally astounding display of eating by Brian Makaza… and some very fine running too from Jimmy Chow, Harry Clark, Oliver Webb, Charlie Boarder, Luke McGarry, Clovis Tari, Harvey Hayhurst, Charlie Pike, Boris Priscott, Ned Jenkins, Beltran Silva Munoz Pan, and Inigo Quaife. The victory margin was nearly a full lap of the course. One final sporting achievement deserves mention here: Albemarle Cutbill, who joined the House and the School in the Lower Sixth, has very successfully combined his Sixth Form studies with a demanding schedule of training and competition as a Team GB sailor; his will be a career to watch, and we wish him every success on the water.
Despite all these sporting highlights, it remains the case that I won’t describe Smythe as a ‘Sporting House’: we are still an ‘All-Round House’, and the achievements of the Smythe boys in all areas of their academic and extra-curricular lives are to be celebrated. We have a large number of very talented musicians – as those parents and families who were able to attend the House at Home in March will attest. Dylan Chan, Ayrton Rose, Bosco Mok, Andrew Ng, Luke and Jonah McGarry have all been prominent members of the School choirs. None who were present will forget Domingo Bermudez’ terrific performance on the Drums at the end of his final Head’s Assembly in December, and the number of individual performances by our musicians through the year have been legion. In the Inter-House Music competition, Smythe was awarded Best Boys’ House, with particular credit to Ayrton, Dylan and Bosco for their rendition of Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah!, and to Jimmy Chow who accompanied all three pieces on the piano to secure the Best Accompaniment prize. Meanwhile, Ben Boas Syed has been studying at the British and Irish Modern Music Institute in Bristol, commuting almost daily throughout his two Sixth Form years. His first EP will be released later in the summer, and I am sure he will have a glittering career.
After two years without public examinations, it has been nice to feel the natural rhythm of the year returning this summer as the Fifth and Upper Sixth have prepared themselves for GCSEs and A-Levels respectively. Much has been written in the Press about the impact of Covid-19 on pupils’ readiness for examination, but it is a credit to the Smythe boys that they have knuckled down to the task of revision. I hope that their efforts will be rewarded when the results are reported in August. Our debating team in the Abingdon Society has not been as successful this year as sometimes – perhaps a reflection of the number of different pupils who have all been keen to participate in these lively and hotlycontested events. Ambrose Mui in particular has been a stalwart of the competition and will I feel sure be looking to consolidate Smythe’s position next time round. Ambrose also had a remarkable end to the Summer Term, arranging to spend a week working with our local MP in Westminster, meeting a number of high-profile figures at a time of huge political turmoil in the UK, including Sir Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party. Ambrose likely has a political career ahead of him.
I pay tribute here to the character of the boys
of this House, and especially those leaving our community whether at the end of their Upper Sixth year or sooner; whether they have spent four years in Smythe or just a term. They are without exception remarkable young men, and we wish every one of them joy and success in their lives beyond Downside. The Upper Sixth have been a great year group who despite the difficulties of two Covid-struck years have been a model of unity and community. The Prefect body have worked hard for the greater good of the pupils within the House, ably led by Khalik and Alex. They began the year not in Polding, but in Plunkett as the restrictions on movement and the final redecoration of the Smythe Dorm impacted on how our space could be used. While there – for the first half of the Michaelmas Term – they were very ably supported by Mr Worsman, who this year steps down as Assistant House Master, a role in which he has shown dedicated care for all our boys for nearly five years. I am delighted that he will be continuing in Smythe as a Tutor… and I am sure we will always be able to find him a bed if he wishes to do an overnight duty!
I record my thanks as always to all of the House Staff: Tutors, House Parents, Domestic staff. Mr Ramsden will be the new Assistant House Master from September, and we will be joined by Mr Harley Howard as Resident Tutor. Mrs Filer joined the team in September as House Parent alongside the ever-dependable Ms Nash. Leaving the Tutor team this year are Mr Rawlins and Mr Simper whose new roles as members of the Academic Leadership Team excuse them tutoring duties, but not, I hope, a lasting association with Smythe House. It has also been sad this year to say farewell to our Monastic Community, and so to Dom James and Dom Boniface who have been such regular visitors as Chaplains in recent years: the House awarded them both their House Colours, and the Community of St Gregory the Great, House Cap – small tokens of a lasting esteem.
It has been, as it always is, a pleasure and a privilege to walk with the boys of this House through their journeys this academic year. They make the role of House Master a pleasure, every day bringing new joys… and sometimes new challenges. I look forward to seeing many again in September and hope that all those whose travels have now taken them beyond Smythe will stay in touch and report all the adventures and achievements that they go on to have in the years to come.
John Storey House Master of Smythe
House Awards 2021-2022
Caps: Community of St Gregory the Great, Abdul Khalik Akenzua Al-Kareem, Alex Dentskevich, Reobert Keeley, Jimmy Chow, Mr Rory Worsman, Mr Richard Rawlins.
Colours: Dom Boniface Hill, Dom James Hood, Ayrton Rose, Ambrose Mui, Dylan Chan, Gus Healey, Harry Clark, Louis Hansom, Ben Boas Syed, Mr Oliver Simper.
Half-Colours: Harvey Hayhurst, Bosco Mok, Freddie Dentskevich, Matthew Stanislas, Tom Pike, Leo Matthews, Ivor Jones, Brian Makaza, Daniel Kwok, Archie Farthing, Albemarle Cutbill, Inigo Cañellas.
