Downside Raven 2025

RAVEN the

Design

Photography – Downside staff, Xander Casey, Jon Edkins

RESULTS ACCOLADES &

SCHOOL PREFECTS

HEADS OF SCHOOL’S SPEECHES

HEAD’S SPEECH

CHAIR OF GOVERNORS’ SPEECH

THE GREGORIAN MEDAL PRIZES

PUBLIC EXAMINATION RESULTS

UNIVERSITY DESTINATIONS & COURSES

SCHOOL PREFECTS

Heads of School:

Zara Mkparu (Isabella) Edward Howlett (Barlow)

Deputy Heads of School & Head of First to Third Cosima Melotte (Isabella) Finnbar O’Kane (Barlow)

Deputy Head of First to Third Form Form

Jedidah Yakubu Samaila (Isabella) Alexander Henson (Barlow)

Head of Barlow: George Buhagiar

Head of Caverel: Isabella Preston

Head of Isabella: Amelia Kudasik

Head of Roberts: Siu Hei (Alberto) Wong

Head of Smythe: Frederick Podesta

Deputy Head of Barlow: Daniel Flynn

Deputy Head of Caverel: Fenella Taylor

Deputy Head of Isabella: Emily Stanislas

Deputy Head of Roberts: Kian Simms

Deputy Head of Smythe: Charles Pike

Barlow House Prefects:

Johnny Rowell, Ching Cheung (Max) Su, Adrian Mes, Patrick Colgan

Caverel House Prefects:

Kee Yan (Martha) Che, Rennie Mei Yee Chiu, Eugenia Navarro Fernandez, Julia Kierepko (Head of Service), Jana Kinsky, Louisa Norris

Isabella House Prefects: Kara Campbell Meehan (Head of CCF), Hiu Ching (Ella) Chow (Head of Sacristy)

Roberts House Prefects: Louis Bryan, Louis Joy (Head of Service), Kaosi Kema, Joseph Ladipo, Wan Young (Justin) Lam, Jaime Alique Ortiz (Head of Sacristy)

Smythe House Prefects:

Alexander de Pelet, Casper Hayhurst, Harvey Hayhurst, Euan Elston, Aleksander Korczagin (Head of Chaplaincy), Jonah McGarry

HEADS OF SCHOOL’S SPEECHES

“There’s a quote from a movie I love that goes, “I know these will all be stories someday, and our pictures will become old photographs. We all become somebody’s mum or dad. But right now, these moments are not stories. This is happening. I can see it.” . That quote makes you think of this moment. Growing up. Coming of Age. Graduation. It makes you think of what you’ve learnt and what you’re leaving behind, and majorly how this school has affected each and every one of us.

The opportunities and communities Downside gave me allowed me to flourish, letting my confident, strong and passionate self show.

Now, I am a nerd at heart, so having spaces like Academic Scholars where I could give a presentation on one of my many niche interests is something I’ll remember fondly, especially when I gave a presentation on famous cults.

People who know me know I am a big theatre kid, so I was never too far from this theatre. I remember my first play at Downside playing Prospero in the Tempest, and I’m sure Miss McGarry remembers when I threw her wooden cane during the final scene and it broke right there and then on stage.

Sharing my culture is a big part of who I am and I thank Downside for creating a space where I

could do that, and I made sure to take advantage of that. I learnt so much about other cultures by being here as well and that is a true testament to the diverse nature of this school.

If there is one thing I’ve learnt at Downside, it’s that never be afraid to be yourself. You may be anxious and think “what if people don’t like me?” or “what if nobody else is doing this?”, but as long as you love what you’re doing and the person you’re becoming through all the ways you can express yourself in this school then you better make a promise to yourself to keep being you. Which other school would you see socials with student bands and DJs? Which other school would you find student led investigations of ancient Roman roads for archaeological analysis?

These are the things that define identity. And identity is what makes a school.

It will not always be easy out there in the world, a quote by Taylor Russell talks about the brutality of youth and coming of age in a world that feels harsh. We live in a world that can be so intimidating, but outgoing Upper 6th as we step into this next phase of our lives, I hope we all have the courage to do what inspires us and to take the values we felt at Downside: Expression, stewardship and passion, while never forgetting to be kind, compassionate and gracious into the wider world.

This is not related to Downside, but I would also like to thank my incredible mum, sister and dad. Home is where the heart is and you are my whole heart.

And lastly I would like to say to the class of 2025 - don’t be afraid to be authentically completely and unapologetically yourself, and lead a life that makes YOU feel whole. I know I will.

Thank you.”

Zara Mkparu (Isabella)

“Seeing our school and its incredible community gathered in this theatre is awe-inspiring. Before I talk about the leavers, I want to thank those who have made our journey and this moment possible.

If there is one undeniable fact it is that the Old Gregorian community is unbreakable in its spirit and support of the School. Through supporting the School, you all have given us memories and opportunities that we will cherish for years to come, and I want to thank you all on behalf of the Sixth Form. We will shortly be joining you as Old Gregorians in continuing to support our historic and beautiful school.

Furthermore, we wouldn’t be here without the support of the parents, whose hard work and dedication has resulted in fantastic opportunities for us here. Whether it is sending some tuck, turning up to matches, or dealing with the VAT, your contributions are vital to us, and on behalf of the Sixth Form, I’d like to thank you all.

This year at Downside has been a whirlwind of change, with the election of Pope Leo XIV and the retirement of Mr Hobbs. Through the excitement of change, I have no doubt that the steadfast leadership of Mr Randall, alongside the support of the parents and the OG Community, will allow Downside to flourish. To quote the Second Epistle to the Thessalonians: ‘So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the traditions that you were taught by us, either by our spoken word or by our letter’.

Address to Upper Sixth Form:

“This all feels incredibly dreamlike, but it could not be more real. This theatre has housed us for years, providing assemblies, productions, concerts and lessons. We have experienced these and in doing so they have shaped us, the journey and the destination.

Within the First and Second Form, there was a certain amount of reverence that we held for the Sixth Form. They were adults, too old for the School and to us, somewhat temperamental beings that knew all. But we were giddy to reach that level of privilege, yet it seemed so far away. Games of Uno and unfortunately COVID kept us busy.

Third Form boosted our classes with numbers, and after the isolation of the coronavirus, our school felt alive once again. The Powell day room was a festival of piano playing, ping-ponging, and the odd Saturday night spent watching a film which was either a great time, or a nightmare inducing one. Nevertheless, the girls in Caverel had just taken their step into a senior house, and the boys were at the top of Powell, slowly climbing the ladder.

Fourth Form brought the boys to their senior houses, splitting us into a huge dormitory each. Now we were all in our definitive houses, we felt invincible. Our time with the seniors was special. We could immerse ourselves in friendships, our Houses and our academics which began to shape us.

Fifth Form was our last year before Sixth Form, and it remains one of my personal favourites. We were all gifted our own rooms and felt situated within our Houses. Our numbers grew more, and not before long, our GCSEs arrived.

Lower Sixth peaked our year with members, and by now, things were moving fast. Our A-Level subject choices gave us academic freedom - and too much free time to know what to do with it. Some of us were prefects and part of 1st teams in sports. There was only one year group above us.

And just like that, we are here. Our exams

are finished. Our rooms are cleared of photos, folders and stolen cutlery from the kitchen. Our consistent flow of memories here are drawing to a close. We will most likely never drag a suitcase into this school again.

We now have two choices in this moment: to proceed into an ambiguous future beyond the safe and secure boundaries of Downside, without the harness of a timetable, or a lesson structure or assembly. Or, very quickly, we look back. We look back at a time of growth, of experience, of maturity. A journey of change, which has led us to a destination.

We are now left with a question. Which is more important: the journey or the destination, and where is this destination?

Finding a mark scheme for an exam may be a laugh at first, but getting that 100% without knowing how you achieved it is a cheap feeling, an undeserving one, with no pride or accomplishment. The same can be said in cheating in a running race; cutting a corner may have brought you an extra place, but your full experience is dulled slightly. And I’d say that given the hypothetical chance of wiping an embarrassing event from your life into irrelevance, many of you, including me, would take it. But in doing so, something that has defined and shaped you has also just left.

Travelling in time from First Form to Upper Sixth would be a nice concept, reaching that level of privilege and maturity with speed. Yet we would be unaware of what brought us to this moment. If I had taken away even one of those years I have just listed, you would feel something missing, something important. Yet here we are, with memories of laughter, happiness, and an immeasurable amount of experiences and emotions paving that path of two, three, four, five, six, or seven years.

The destination of our childhood and school can be wherever you want: the Leavers’ Ball, driving through these gates or the picnics outside. But for me, it’s right here in this room,

at this moment with all of you; basking in our shared and individual memories of our years here. Because in this moment, every memory we have spent with one another is a good one. A treasured one. One which has defined you and, in a school as small as this, defined each other. We can’t skip these moments.

Now, I urge you, with the benefit of extreme hindsight, to appreciate every moment. It’s often the most unusual and special moments which remain with us, yet sometimes, those which occurred on a day-to-day basis are the ones worth keeping. Waking up next to your friends. Hearing the choirs’ vocals through the Abbey on a Friday Hymn Practice. Playing tennis on a warm summer’s day after supper. It would be all the wins and losses in sport, those conversations with people you’ve never thought of sharing them with. It would be sleeping, knowing you are meters away from your friends. It would be preparing to leave for a summer holiday, knowing that you will be returning for another year.

It was never just about the destination, or the journey. It was about both; for one cannot be as fulfilling as the other. They complete each other, as we have been completed throughout our time here. Growing up with you all has been incredible. There is nothing greater to process that we leave here as adults after beginning as children.

As clichéd as it is, treasure these moments, the good and the bad, the unusual and the daily. They complete the journey and destination. They complete you.

Thank you Downside.”

Edward Howlett (Barlow)

HEAD’S PRIZE DAY SPEECH

“Your poor mother’ is a phrase I became used to hearing when I was younger—usually right after someone learned I’m one of six brothers. I come fifth and all six of us are separated by fewer than ten years. You can probably imagine the mayhem growing up: Skirmishes were frequent, guerrilla tactics common, and full-scale warfare? Not unheard of. To misquote from a well-known Monty Python film: Not even the Romans could keep order in a place like that!

Au pairs came and went—some fleeing with outlandish excuses, others lasting a little longer. One brave soul not only survived but has become a lifelong family friend. Her subsequent career was as a probation officer. On reflection it’s hard to think she could have had a more apt training!

Mealtimes were always a potential flashpoint. Six hungry children, armed with cutlery and seated in close proximity, the food providing the possibility of ammunition. Risk assessments were conducted. Mitigations had to be put in place. My father, a speed eater of Olympic calibre, was served first and had finished before we’d picked up our forks. His plate was replaced by a book, and he’d begin to read. Miraculously calm would break out as we were transported to Narnia or to the Shire and went ‘there and back again’ with Bilbo.

We were introduced to Lewis Carroll too and joined Alice for her Adventures in Wonderland, including that fantastically chaotic croquet game. You may remember it: flamingos for mallets, hedgehogs for balls, and hoops that wander off at will. Rules changing mid-game, and a confused Alice trying to make sense of it all.

Visitors to our house may initially have felt remarkably like Alice. The rules were often ignored, the players could be unpredictable, and the equipment—well, let’s just say it wasn’t always

used as intended. But there was a crucial difference. Amidst the chaos, Alice and her fellow players had to contend with the tyrannical and unpredictable Queen of Hearts who was both a participant and a referee, calling for random beheadings when things didn’t go her way. We on the other hand had our mother, who qualified for the title blessed under at least two of the criteria stipulated in the beatitudes! Our referee may have raised her voice from time to time, but she championed peace-making and mercy and she gave us comfort when we mourned! She was more of a shepherd, using her authority not to dominate but to guide her flock. We grew up with a firm foundation and a trust in authority.

Compare and contrast are words commonly used in the classroom and with the election of two Americans to significant roles of authority on the world stage during the last year, we find ourselves presented with a highly teachable moment. On the one hand we have our new Pope, his title, ‘Pontifex’ literally meaning bridge builder, whose leadership is rooted in humility, inclusion, and service, on the other, a President, who recently returned to the White House, proudly wearing his red baseball cap with its slogan, ‘Make America Great Again’. He is a self-declared wall builder whose vision is constructed on exclusion, self-interest, and the exercise of power to dominate others.

Our world today may seem chaotic at times. It needs leadership which encourages trust in authority and provides a vision for stability. We were lucky to have my mother and father. I wouldn’t mind betting that we’d all feel a great deal more confident of our future if our leaders were convening in the Vatican— seeking wisdom and moral clarity—instead of fawning to or sparring with the modern-day Queen of Hearts in the Oval Office.

So what can we do? We too often feel powerless in the face of such a huge task. Well, we

can start by writing a story. Stories are powerful. As you’ve seen they can even bring a ceasefire to sibling warfare. They fire our imagination and influence our behaviour. They help us to understand the world we inhabit. The stories to which I was introduced in my childhood certainly imprinted on me and the story we tell and by which we live, as educators, as parents, as pupils have a profound effect on those whose formation has been entrusted to us.

Our community here at Downside has a shared story, it shapes what we say and what we do, and in that story we celebrate the values on which our communion is built: In our story God is in charge, and for the record God’s not like the Queen of Hearts. Nor is his job up for grabs! So don’t apply. But that’s good because we can take comfort that we don’t have to depend on ourselves alone. Our talents are a gift and our successes and failures are not the measurement of our identity or our worth. We can take comfort, yes, but we must not live in our comfort-zone. We have been created to strive and to aspire to excellence, to use our talents, and more importantly to risk using them, whether it leads to an offer from Cambridge or a pass in Grade 3 trombone, selection for Bath U18s or a place on the U14B team, singing the solo at Mass or joining in with the congregational hymn. Anyone who saw Oliver! in March will know what I mean. More than one person was convinced we’d hired a professional to play Fagin—but the real triumph wasn’t in any one performance. It was that no one buried their talent. Everyone stepped up, cast off their metaphorical armbands, dived in and embraced the joy of performing—free from selfconsciousness or fear. It must have been exhilarating to be part of; it was certainly a joy to witness. Within our story, we are marathon runners, not running to win for personal glory but to inspire our fellow competitors to cross the line safely, sometimes even to help them do so, whilst all the time being cheered on our way and made to feel valued however slowly we are running. The competition can be fierce but no one is

left behind. For me someone called Ambrose is definitely a significant character in our story.

And failure and loss does not lead to cries of ‘off with his head’, no, paradoxically in our story, loss can actually lead to gain, and giving up what we have is often the path to our inheritance. We live with this contradiction every year as we bid farewell to our departing pupils and colleagues. Valued members of our community, in whom we have invested so much and who have given so much in return. And yet, their departure is vital in providing the space for a new generation to grow into, for new colleagues to bring fresh energy and undiscovered gifts. This rhythm of loss and rebirth is not a disruption of our story, it is the story and it actually enriches it.

Change is an essential part of growth. Our purpose is not to preserve the past in amber, but to pass on the flame. Last weekend we hosted OGs who left in 2005. Much has changed since they were here. It was as they left that coeducation was introduced, for me amongst the most significant and most enriching developments to have happened at Downside’s long history. Of course, when I arrived here in 2008, the pupil body was made up of boys and girls but let me assure you that coeducation did not just happen on the day that girls were admitted to the school in September 2005. The value of the contribution of girls was of course felt immediately, just as was the contribution of the girls who attended in the sixth form here in the 1980s. But coeducation does not happen overnight. It takes time, it takes intention, and it takes the willingness to grow together. It requires listening, adapting, and sometimes unlearning old habits to make space for something richer. What began as a structural change has become, over time, a cultural transformation, one that continues to shape the character of our community. Next term there is an event to celebrate those 20 years, to celebrate the contribution of girls and women so far and give thanks for all that has brought and to those who have helped it to happen. As the junior boys

now move to become a junior section of Smythe House, it is a truly coeducational moment in the fact the boys will be adopting the system that has worked so well for the girls.

Our 2005 leavers thoroughly enjoyed returning to Downside and were struck by the depth and positivity of the changes they saw. They spoke warmly of the welcome they received—from those who guided them through the School to the familiar faces and spaces of their old Houses. Their reflections affirmed what we know to be true: that meaningful change, rooted in our values, doesn’t just alter the landscape; it strengthens our foundation, enriches our community, and deepens our commitment to the story we continue to write together.

It has been my privilege to contribute something to the story of this community over the last seventeen years. I am used to experiencing the departure of others from the position of one who is remaining. Sometimes it has seemed devastating, particularly the departure of the community of St. Gregory and then subsequently saying farewell to the St. Scholastica Community of Manquehue oblates. On this occasion I am one of the departing. I am certainly sad to leave, but it is the right time and I know that my departure will lead to new and exciting opportunities for you who remain. You see, I’ve seen how new life has sprung in the past and even if it’s sometimes hard to see, God is working hard in the background. Our Mass this morning bears witness. We may have anticipated a desolate wasteland when the monks moved away but our Mass this morning reveals to us the beautiful garden which has sprung up in the space left.

I have been enormously lucky to work with Mike Randall in my years as Head and I thank him for his exceptional hard work and support. I know that he is more than ready to lead the School in the coming year. He has driven improvement in so many areas already over the last seven years and I could not be more delighted to be handing the torch on to him as he helps to shape Downside’s next chapter.

Mike will not be alone. I know well that he will be supported brilliantly by Katie Walker. Being a Head can be challenging at times, but being a Head’s PA, especially this Head’s PA, is a whole different level of difficulty! She’s the one who ensures the heart of the school keeps beating; without her, we’d certainly be in cardiac arrest. I certainly would! Thank you so much, Katie. Mike will also be able to count on an extraordinary team of colleagues. Let me speak directly to you now: you are a wonderfully committed and generous group, and it has been my privilege to work alongside you. Thank you for your unwavering support. The generosity you have extended to me has been extraordinary, and our community has thrived on your dedication, your energy, and your belief in what we do. I am deeply grateful to every one of you, whatever your role. There are of course many colleagues who are not with us in the theatre, whose work is so crucial to our community; those in our domestic department, in works, in catering, who work on our grounds and who ensure the administration of our school runs smoothly.

Some of our colleagues who are here are leaving like me and I’d like to thank you for your contribution here:

In a curious echo of the Hobbs family’s revolving door of au pairs, we’ve found it surprisingly tricky to hang on to our resident sports assistants. While it hasn’t quite reached the drama of The Traitors, with comings and goings all around her, Emma Guy has remained a model of steadfastness. Like Alice navigating Wonderland, she has shown a willingness to embrace every challenge with enthusiasm. I’m absolutely delighted that her experience hasn’t put her off education, in fact, quite the opposite. As she heads to Brighton College, she does so with our warmest wishes and the brightest of futures ahead.

For some reason we don’t have a Resident Art Assistant. Instead we have the rather grander sounding Artist in Residence, perhaps fittingly this year as this year’s post holder has been Eloise

Grandfield. However, Eloise has been entirely down to earth and got stuck into all things creative at Downside. Her generosity and unfailing cheerfulness have made her a firm favourite here and her extraordinary artistic skills are still on show in the Theatre Foyer. She will be greatly missed.

Max Gauntlett arrived to lead our rugby programme but, like many a colleague before him, he was quickly prepared to meet the broader needs of our community, becoming Assistant House Master in Powell. This year, he stepped in to become the House Master and I am especially grateful to him for his steady and sympathetic shepherding of the boys. Powell is not for the faint hearted and Max has been a calm and reassuring presence—exhibiting patience and a quiet fortitude that has anchored those around him. We thank him sincerely for all he has given and wish him luck as he moves on to Dauntsey’s.

I had to give up Biology at the age of twelve because it clashed with Ancient Greek. I didn’t protest at the time—but had Hannah Alcantara been my teacher, I suspect I would have staged a full-scale rebellion. Arriving in 2017 without a teaching qualification or prior school experience, she has defied the ten-thousand-hours rule entirely. With a remarkable gift for making even the most complex concepts clear and compelling, she has inspired countless pupils. Beyond the classroom, she’s been a steady and supportive presence in Caverel as Assistant House Mistress, and the creative force behind a legacy of unforgettable theme weeks. She will be deeply missed as she moves to Haileybury.

Chris Stowell is a man of deep conviction, never afraid to speak his mind, and always ready to challenge us to think more deeply. I always enjoy eating lunch with him. He enjoys a debate and argues with passion but he listens with care and responds with integrity. His enthusiasm for theology is infectious, his joy in teaching utterly contagious. He’s not only a bridge builder, he’s a bridge player. The jury may still be out on whether Chris is hot or cold—but one thing is certain: he is never

lukewarm. His presence has stirred hearts, sparked minds, and left a lasting impression on all of us. Your energy and honesty will be greatly missed.

Jill Eckford is someone you can rely on— steadfast, principled, and quietly dedicated. A deeply committed teacher with a wealth of experience, she brings not only knowledge but genuine care to everything she does. Jill has never sought the limelight, nor has she aimed to be the favourite—yet she has earned the respect and admiration of colleagues and pupils alike. In a department that has seen its fair share of change, Jill has been the constant: dependable, loyal, and calm. We wish her well as she takes her wellearned retirement.

Ian Ramsden has been an exceptional educator; knowledgeable, caring and musical. His enthusiasm for computing and Dungeons & Dragons has not only enriched the curriculum but created a vibrant space where pupils feel seen, inspired, and free to share their interests. In his pastoral roles, Ian has consistently gone above and beyond. With his flowing locks, one might mistake him for Achilles, but Ian has always been unmistakably himself.

A true geek hero, he’s brought authenticity to everything he’s done, whether coding, playing D&D, or quoting Deep Space Nine. What you see is what you get, and what we’ve seen is someone who’s boldly gone where few educators dare. Thank you, Ian, for everything you’ve given to Downside.

To the class of ’25, alongside whom I leave, I want to say a huge thank you. I want to recognise each one of you and to thank you for the contribution you have made, whether you have won a prize or not. Individually you have played your unique part and collectively you have exerted a hugely positive influence. You have set a wonderful culture in the new sixth form centre laying the foundations for its continued success. You’ve led by example, supporting one another, and brought change of which you can be proud. You are a credit to Downside.

Special thanks to this year’s exceptional group of prefects. You have led with grace and humility

and it’s been fun to work with you. You have once again reinforced our culture of servant leadership. Thank you all.

And now a few words about our Heads of School, Zara and Ed, two outstanding young people. They have embraced their role with energy and purpose, setting themselves the highest standards and at the same time giving others the confidence to achieve their best. Their warmth and generosity is evident in all they do and their input has been consistently honest, wise and constructive. I have some gifts for them today, as a token of thanks from me and the school. There was an exceptional field of candidates to replace Ed and Zara and I am delighted to announce that next year’s Heads of School are Maida Fuenzalida Shenke and Juan Duve. I wish them luck in their role. I know that they will do a wonderful job.

Please allow me to thank some more people before I finish. First, our governing body. This is not an easy time to be governing an independent school, though, to be fair, Downside has never shied away from presenting its governors with a challenge or two! I sometimes feel a bit like Daniel Levy. I hope it’s not on account of me but during my time as Head, I’ve served under four Chairs. The first was Adrian Aylward, who very sadly died in 2020. We remember Adrian with enormous affection, and I am delighted that his wife Caroline is with us today. I thank warmly Giles Mercer and Michael Bernard, who then so generously stepped in when it was needed.

Most recently John Ludlow has provided exceptional leadership steering us expertly through the hazards which have been so frequently thrown our way. We owe so much to him and all our governors for their steadfast and generous support. They give their time freely and selflessly, working tirelessly behind the scenes. They are the custodians of our story, helping to guide each new chapter with wisdom and care. They ensure we remain rooted in our values while adapting to a rapidly changing world. I’m especially grateful for their support.

I would also like to thank all those from amongst the Old Gregorian and the wider Downside community who make up the Downside Association for their continued and generous support. Meetings with the Committee Members have been one of my great pleasures as Head and I thank them all for helping us in bringing together events. They have kindly sponsored the drinks reception after the speeches. Please do speak to them if you would like to be involved.

I’m especially grateful to you, the parents, for the trust you have shown in us and for working with us. I hope I have been successful in ensuring that our relationship is one of partnership rather than transaction. We are engaged together in the most important work, challenging, painful and frustrating at times, but rewarding and joyful too.

My final thanks go to my family, and especially to my wife, Damaris. We first met in Cambridge in 1984, so we’ve been writing our shared story for some forty years now. I feel so lucky to have had her as my co-author and the book’s been exciting so far. For the past thirty years, we’ve lived in boarding schools which comes with challenges when you are at the same time raising four children who at times bore an uncanny resemblance to the chaotic crew I described at the start! Damaris has worked throughout that time in the NHS, alongside her role of school physio for many years. We’ve had some great times, but a lot of juggling has had to be done and let me tell you that she is more proficient at it than me. I could not have done it without her. Thank you. Now, it’s time for us to write a new chapter together, with a little more space, and perhaps a little more freedom to roam. To our children, two of whom, I’m delighted are here today, I want to say a big thank you too. I am so glad that they are OGs. They have been grounded in the best possible story. Thank you Downside.”

Andrew Hobbs Head

THE GREGORIAN MEDAL

“As we have had in recent years, we have two winners of the Gregorian Medal.

Our first recipient arrived in the Third Form, embracing school life with steady devotion during her five years at Downside. Our second recipient joined in the Sixth Form, making his impact in just two years never by imposing himself on others, but through quietly and consistently applying his talents according to the needs of the community. They both display unwavering dedication, and a generosity that enriches all who encounter them. Though their journeys have been different, they share a common thread—a remarkable capacity to encourage others, to uplift, and to serve them.

Whether in her house life, the classroom, as a musician or in the CCF, our first recipient has given generously of herself, always rooting her actions in service rather than self-promotion.

Her humility, warmth, and quiet leadership have encouraged younger pupils to engage deeply— not just in their day to day lessons and activities, but in faith and community.

Likewise, our second recipient has demonstrated singular self-discipline and humility, investing his time in enriching the life of the community. His academic rigour and organisation have enabled him to balance excellence with commitment to others, ensuring that his impact is felt far beyond the classroom.

The presence of our first recipient in St Luke’s, St John’s, and St Teresa’s communities—has strengthened the engagement of younger pupils, guiding them toward faith and active participation in the liturgy.

Our second recipient has anchored the Schola Cantorum, performed with heartfelt virtuosity on the cello, won the recital competition, and marched through Bath with a tuba slung over his shoulder,

providing the foundation of the CCF band. His musical talent has been a joy to witness. Whilst her instrument, the oboe, is less cumbersome to transport than the cello or tuba, our first recipient brings no less joy in her musical performances. She has also poured herself into the life of the sacristy, serving Mass throughout her time at school with quiet expertise. As Head of Sacristy, she has trained and inspired a new generation of altar servers, ensuring the reverence of the school’s worship continues.

Meanwhile, our second recipient has thrown himself into school life beyond academics and music—embracing football, performing in musicals,

and delivering unforgettable moments, such as his booming portrayal of Mr Bumble in Oliver! with theatrical relish.

It was wonderful to watch our two medallists end the final lunchtime concert of the year in the Old Chapel, playing a duet, having adapted a piece for viola and clarinet for their instruments, cello and oboe. What a joyful and apt moment.

And so, it is with admiration and gratitude that we recognize these two outstanding individuals.”

The first award goes to… Ella Chow And the second goes to… Aleksander Korczagin

CHAIR OF GOVERNORS’ SPEECH

“Firstly, as ever, I would like to congratulate all our leavers on having completed their exams. I hope all the hard work pays off and you get the results you deserve, or perhaps even a little better!

However, important though exam results are, I think we all know that Downside is about much more than that. Purpose, values and behaviours are what will determine your success in life and there is no better place to develop these than Downside within our shared Catholic and Benedictine ethos.

In the Our Father we are instructed: thy Kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven. To make this happen we follow Jesus and listen and reflect on the gospels, which teach us much about a good shepherd, his lambs and sheep.

We start our school life as lambs, learning to be disciples. The process of following and learning from our teachers. During the early years teachers are never far away, offering feedback and encouragement. Then as time goes on, they give us more space so that we can make our own decisions and mistakes and reflect on them.

Now you are going out into the world, I hope fully prepared by Downside for, a life fully lived. You will find new teachers, new leaders, new friendships. You will have more and even bigger choices of your own to make and learn to live with the consequences be they intentional or not. Please do not forget that giving yourself time to reflect and learn is often the most important part of the cycle of weekly life. Mass is a good time to do that – Catholic or not, your local parish church will make you welcome.

The gospels and the Rule of Saint Benedict have much to teach us about our life here on earth and I hope you will grow in the image of the good shepherd, as a servant leader.

It is easy to think of disciples and leaders as two different sets of people, but in fact we must be both. Discipleship is the core of leadership and leadership is the expression of your purpose and values.

The servant leader serves their community – which might be their university, place of work, family and friends, or where they live. They prioritise others’ needs above their own. They lead by example and with ethical conduct, making the world a better place.

Andrew Hobbs, I am sure you will agree, has been an excellent example of such servant leadership throughout his tenure at Downside. And, goodness knows, we have needed such a leader. He has seen us through some very

Purpose, values and behaviours are what will determine your success in life and there is no better place to develop these than Downside within our shared Catholic and Benedictine ethos.

challenging times including IICSA, Covid, the separation from Monastery and the monks’ departure from the site. Throughout all of this he has led with empathy, wisdom and good humour, and the school has emerged from those challenges with its ethos and values stronger than ever.

Andrew, we shall miss you enormously. Since your arrival at the school as Deputy Head in 2008 and subsequent appointment as Head in 2018, you have helped a generation of not only pupils but staff, even parents, grow as people in God’s love. You have made and kept Downside true to its promise, to be a bright light in education and to inspire service in our world. We hope you will enjoy a very well-earned rest and retirement with

your family. Damaris, thank you for lending him to us for so many years. I know he could not have achieved all he has without your unstinting support.

As you may know, the highest honour we bestow on our pupils at Downside for their exemplary service to the community is the Gregorian Medal. No member of staff has ever been awarded one, but we thought it would be fitting to change that today. Damaris, please come up to be with Andrew as we give this award to him as a mark of our thanks, admiration and recognition of all that you have achieved together on behalf of our great school.

And now we must look to the future. As you know, Mike Randall takes over as Interim Head in September whilst we undertake a formal selection process in the Michaelmas Term – and I’m pleased to say that Mike will of course be applying for the permanent role.

Please continue to spread the word about this very special place and the wonderfully rounded, articulate, empathetic young women and men that we send out into the world.

We continue to face hugely challenging times, with the imposition of VAT on fees, the loss of charitable business rates relief, and the recent increases in Employers’ National Insurance. Our founding community has been generous in their support over the years, but we must, just as our departing sixth formers must, grow in strength and independence. To that end the senior team and governors have been developing a new vision and strategy for a sustainable and resilient Downside. One that makes best use of the whole site to support the school and the Abbey Church at its heart.

As I said in my letter to you all back in March, the Monastic Community has indicated that they would like to sell the site freehold. They have

offered it to us, including the monastery and some additional land, at a significant discount to its market value. This, then, is the first stage of us realising our plans for the site. I will be writing to the School Community in due course with more details but suffice to say here that you will all be invited to support us in prayer and deed. We have been incredibly encouraged by the feedback and offers of support from all those with whom we have already shared our outline plans. We must now make them a reality.

I would like to finish by recording my heartfelt thanks to my fellow governors, who give freely of their time and expertise in guiding the school. I must also pay tribute to our wonderfully dedicated staff – both the teachers and the support teams –who work tirelessly to achieve all that we do.

And thanks of course to you as parents for working with us and supporting us in a myriad of different ways – not least your advocacy for Downside. Please continue to spread the word about this very special place and the wonderfully rounded, articulate, empathetic young women and men that we send out into the world.

And to our leavers – I know you will spread that message by your example, as generations of OGs have done before you.

Let me end with a prayer:

Our Heavenly Father, thank you for all the gifts you have given us. With hope and determination, with our hearts anchored in your love, may we embrace your Holy Spirit and build your kingdom here on earth.

Amen

Thank you.”

John Ludlow (C82) Chair of Governors

PRESENTATION OF THE OG MEDAL

“Aquestion that I am asked from time to time is: what is St Gregory’s Society?

St Gregory’s Society is a thriving community for all those who have experienced Downside and its core Benedictine values as pupils. The memory of St Gregory the Great is central to Downside’s identity and lives on through the name given to its alumni, Old Gregorians - or OGs for short - and to the name of the Society itself.

Since 1843, when its first meeting took place in a hotel in Leicester Square, members of St Gregory’s Society have continued to meet through the many alumni events, reunions and social gatherings that are held throughout the year in the UK and around the world.

Today, the Old Gregorian community is a vibrant, active network of more than 8,000 former pupils who seek to stay connected with Downside and other Old Gregorians, and to support the current and future generations of pupils. Old Gregorians are encouraged to keep in touch by being part of St Gregory’s Society and we very much look forward to seeing this year’s Sixth Form leavers at some of these OG events and gatherings in the not-toodistant future.

The Old Gregorian Medal was first awarded in 2014. It was conceived with the aim of recognising the outstanding contributions made by Old Gregorians either to society as a whole

or to St Gregory’s Society itself, within their field of specialisation whether in the public, private or voluntary sectors, and who have demonstrated exemplary, selfless service.

In short, it is an opportunity each year for the Old Gregorian community to recognise one of its own for being a remarkable person and an exemplar of Old Gregorian values.

This year is unusual in that we have decided to award OG Medals to two OGs.

They are two very different but equally worthy recipients; one celebrating a lifetime of artistic endeavour and the other demonstrating a commitment to service. Each will be an inspiration for pupils and OGs.

Clare Hunter (C11) was first introduced to the charity Mary’s Meals when she was a pupil here at Downside nearly 15 years ago. Since then, she has shown unwavering and tireless dedication to supporting the charity and has contributed to its success in many ways, from fundraising and speaking on its behalf in churches, to her present role as a Trustee. By becoming a Trustee, she has accepted a high degree of responsibility and commitment to the charity at what is an early stage of a demanding professional career.

Mary’s Meals is a global charity focused on providing life-changing meals to children in some of the world’s poorest communities. The charity’s mission is to ensure that every child

Today, the Old Gregorian community is a vibrant, active network of more than 8,000 former pupils who seek to stay connected with Downside and other Old Gregorians, and to support the current and future generations of pupils.

receives at least one good meal every school day. By doing this, it aims to break the cycle of poverty by encouraging education and improving the health and well-being of children.

Clare’s dedication to Mary’s Meals is reflected in many aspects of her life and has been an important way of expressing her faith. Clare has motivated a growing network of family and friends to support Mary’s Meals, something she began at School and has continued into adult life showing that it is never too early to start.

Clare, thank you for coming here today to receive this award.

Ken Thompson (Ra65) found his life’s work in the art of stone carving and sculpture soon after he left Downside and has made a significant contribution to this art form over the many years since then. His work can be seen in churches and public sites in Ireland, England, Wales and the US. Many of his works which have been created in the studio at his home in County Cork have given powerful expression to his religious beliefs and brought distinction to Christian life.

OGs will be familiar perhaps with the magnificent floor memorial stone dedicated to Cardinal Hume in the Chapel of St Gregory and St Augustine where he is buried in Westminster Cathedral.

And pupils at Downside and OGs alike will know the carved inscription on the stairs leading from the Weld Cloister to the Abbey Church that records the history of the School and the monastic Community of St Gregory the Great. Churches in Ireland and England have been enriched by his carvings, notably the Stations of the Cross in the Church of The Holy Redeemer

and St Thomas More in Chelsea, London where the School holds its Christmas carol service every year. There are many examples of Ken’s work to look out for!

Ken, thank you for coming here today all the way from Cork with your son Matthew.

Both recipients will be an inspiration to pupils, both past and present, as they consider how they may contribute to the wider world in their lives after school.”

Ken Beedle (R73)

THE OLD GREGORIAN MEDAL ACCEPTANCE SPEECHES

“I’m here because I love food.

From tea and toast in the afternoon to the weekly post-mass race to brunch, when I was here, food was as central to life at Downside as the bells were for lessons. Now, nothing makes me happier than cooking up a feast for my siblings and friends.

So the idea of going without - of having nothing to eat all day - is something I fortunately can’t imagine.

That’s why, when I first heard a story about a child called Edward in Malawi, whose dream was simply to have enough to eat every day and to go to school, it struck a chord.

Mary’s Meals’ mission is to provide school meals to children worldwide. This aligned with my values, so I joined as a supporter.

Why did I do it? After leaving Downside and graduating from Durham University, I moved to London and after a while I started thinking maybe my weekends could involve more purpose than pub trips and dinner parties. Downside had long instilled a sense of service and love for others, so I decided it was time to volunteer for Mary’s Meals.

My first volunteering stints were fairly humble: standing outside churches, bleary-eyed, shaking a mug. But I loved it. I’m a classic extrovert – so meeting new people was my kryptonite. And honestly? I came away from every shift feeling joy – knowing that a few hours of my time could feed children thousands of miles away.

I progressed to giving talks at clubs and even at the launch of a new crypto coin on Level 39 where I had to pitch Mary’s Meals to win donations (proof that miracles happen in mysterious ways!)

Then I decided to go a step further and sponsor a whole school in Malawi for a year. I set about running the length of Hadrian’s Wall with my older

brother and fellow Downside friends to raise money which inspired a love for ultra running. I’ve continued that passion, mostly recently running 100 miles across Croatia. We also used it as an excuse to host a few parties to fundraise - something I now actually get paid to do as part of my work in tech - showing that your career can be an unusual path but often quite fun!

During Covid I was invited to become a trustee. I was pretty young compared to the others and I accepted because I firmly believe that you can use any platform to effect change. And I’m now pleased to say we have a genuine young person - a gen Zer - coming onto the board.

It’s a joy to be back at Downside – and an even greater surprise to be standing here with the OG Medal. When I got the call, I did wonder if there’d been a mix-up! It’s Mary’s Meals that absolutely deserves the stage because it shows that we can all make a positive impact on the world around us.

Mary’s Meals are now feeding 2.6 million children every single school day across almost 20 countries. And the most remarkable thing? It costs just under £20 to feed a child for an entire school year - showing you truly can make a huge difference with a small act of love.

Congratulations to all of you leavers - the true prizes are the friendships you’ve made here. For me, my best friend here - Lucy - was my maid of honour when I got married in the Abbey 3 years ago!

To the Upper Sixth, if you are curious about life after school - be that working in tech, venture capital or supporting Mary’s Meals I’d love to hear from you! Thank you.”

Clare Hunter (C11)

“Iam delighted and honoured by this unexpected award of a Gregorian medal. I had thought that such medals were reserved for boys in the School and not for this very old Gregorian.

As it happens, it is precisely sixty years since I left Downside and completed my eleven years of Benedictine education, for I was sent to Worth Prep School in 1954, aged only 7. Though homesick at first, I was very happy there and at Downside and remain deeply grateful for this privileged Catholic education. I think, perhaps, that I was among the boys who were more conscious of the monastic side of the School, and I know that I considered a monastic vocation. However, I felt obliged to study for the family bakery business which took me to London in 1965 for 2 years and thereafter to Germany and Belgium. But my heart wasn’t really in it, and I was grateful to one of the directors who told me that business was business and essentially about making money, and thus helped me to make up my mind!

At this time, I was much influenced by the ideas and work of the Catholic sculptor Eric Gill who

spoke of creating a “cell of good living” in the world which greatly appealed to me. At Worth, I had won prizes for painting and calligraphy and when, one day, I saw a beautifully inscribed stone, I knew instinctively that this was something that I not only could do but would love to do.

Art schools were no help and an apprenticeship hard to fund and so I taught myself and, as it seemed, miraculously, commissions came in and a few years later I won a scholarship to Italy, where I went with my beloved wife Rachel for 2 years, returning in 1975 to our home in Ballintubber, Co Cork where our 6 children were born. Thereafter, I have been blessed with constant commissions.

I believe that art (with a lower-case “a”) is essentially about making things that are needed and that brings the maker into a creative relationship with society, without the need for a tedious personality cult.

I have had a very blessed and fulfilling life and thank God for it.

LAUS DEO.”

Ken Thompson

(Ra65)

PRIZES

FIRST FORM

Head’s Prize for Outstanding Academic Achievement Maria Arbones-Davila Goenechea Benjamin Bellord

Head’s Progress Prize Henry Beard

Head’s Progress Prize Mei Miley Yau

Head’s Essay Prize Arthur Garrett

Head’s Essay Prize Maxwell Bellord

SECOND FORM

Head’s Prize for Outstanding Academic Achievement Florence Hathaway David Jones

Head’s Progress Prize Sophie Foudjuo

Head’s Progress Prize Yin Lok Lo

Head’s Essay Prize David Jones

Head’s Essay Prize Florence Hathaway

THIRD FORM

Head’s Prize for Outstanding Academic Achievement Olivia Boswell Ming Dao Lai

Head’s Essay Prize Oliver Bellord

Head’s Essay Prize David Edwards

Head’s Essay Prize Oliver Garrett

Religious Studies Mojolaolu Rachel Oluwadarasimi Awoleke

English Arthur Mills

Classics David Edwards

French Katie Spurling

Spanish Lena Wyganowska

German Daksha Anulal

Mathematics David Edwards

Computer Science

Michael Whithear

Biology Mojolaolu Rachel Oluwadarasimi Awoleke

Chemistry

Michael Whithear

Physics Mojolaolu Rachel Oluwadarasimi Awoleke

History Lena Wyganowska

Geography Michael Whithear

Music Harriet Moger

Drama Oliver Hayhurst

RESULTS & ACCOLADES

Art Cósima Oriol Munoz-Rojas

Design

Physical Education

FOURTH FORM

Head’s Prize for Outstanding Academic Achievement Sofia Kellock Ryle

Head’s Essay Prize Christof Chenyang Lai-Micallef

Head’s Essay Prize Sofia Kellock Ryle

Religious Studies Laygan

English Literature

Classics

French

Spanish Abigail

German

Von Der Schulenburg

Computer Science Tsun Him Bosco

Music Margot Crews-Montes

Art Sasha Von Der Schulenburg

Physical Education

FIFTH FORM

Head’s Prize for Outstanding Academic Achievement

Religious Studies

English Literature

Classics

Classics

French

Spanish

German

Mathematics

Computer Science

Biology

Ting Him Ryan Tong

Chemistry Makuochukwu Ugwuoke

RESULTS & ACCOLADES

Physics

Ting Him Ryan Tong

History Alice Moorhouse

Geography Isabella Hathaway

Music Emily Butcher

Drama Frances Ingram

Art Sakurako Kaihara

Design Sakurako Kaihara

Physical Education Olivia Pike

LOWER SIXTH FORM

Head’s Prize for Outstanding Academic Achievement Molly Jenkins

Head’s Essay Prize Eloise Pickett

Head’s Essay Prize Edmund Jenkins

EPQ Prize Juan Duve

Religious Studies Eva Errington

English Awele Obinna-Onunkwo

French Eva Errington

Spanish Molly Jenkins

Classical Civilisation Jana Hammerer

Classical Greek Edmund Jenkins

Mathematics

Wai Hin Kwong

Computer Science Albert Folch Serra

Biology Eloise Pickett

Chemistry Abigail Wu

Physics Edmund Jenkins

Environmental Science Eleanor Davison

History Eliza Oganiaczyk

Geography Eloise Pickett

Music James Mason-Carney

Art

Davison

Design Hugh Jones

Psychology Eloise Pickett

BTEC Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Alma Haje

Economics Magdalena Fuenzalida Schenke

Business Studies

Juliana Poku

BTEC Sport Elizabeth Gairdner

UPPER SIXTH FORM

Head’s Prize for Outstanding Academic Achievement Charles Pike

Religious Studies Isabella Preston

English Literature

Edward Howlett

RESULTS & ACCOLADES

French Jonah McGarry

Spanish

Mathematics

Computer Science Jana Kinsky

Biology Yui Hang Lam

Chemistry Hiu Ching Chow

History of Art Euan Elston

Geography

Economics

BTEC Enterprise and Entrepreneurship

Music Jana Kinsky

Art Isabella Preston

Design Frederick Podesta

Drama

Psychology Cosima Melotte

BTEC Sport Casper Hayhurst

SCHOOL AWARDS

The Junior Cup for Art Augustin Mills

The Junior Cup for Music Florence Hathaway

The Library Prize Florence Hathaway

The Best Junior Cadet Linda Wang

The Junior Cup for Boys’ Sport Barnaby Rees-Davies

The Junior Cup for Girls’ Sport Bonnie James

The Timothy Fogg Poetry Prize Emma Norrington

The Matthews Organ Cup Emily Butcher

The Tighe Medal for Artistic Endeavour James Mason-Carney

The Barran Drama Prize James Mason-Carney

The MacKenzie Cup Florence Hathaway

SCHOOL PRIZES AND AWARDS

The James Lewis Prize Alexander Henson

The Augustine Baker Prize Cosima Melotte

The Marcus Atkinson Award Kara Campbell Meehan

The Squire Mathematics Prize Charles Pike

The Byrne Brass Trophy Aleksander Korczagin

The Schola Cantorum Prize Euan Elston

The Tambling Cup Julia Kierepko

The Abingdon Cup for Debating Johnny Rowell

RESULTS & ACCOLADES

The House Debating Prize

The British Legion Prize Ching Cheung Su

The CCF Prize

RSM R01 R Nicholas Prize

The Regimental Sergeant Major Cup

The Hugh Watts Cup for the Most Improved Rugby Player

The Turnbull Cup for Outstanding Sport Achievement

The Cave Cup for Sportsman of the Year

The James Turnbull Cup for Sportswoman of the Year

First Class Honours

The Boves Prize for Outstanding Academic Achievement

The Martin Fisher Prize Julia Kierepko

The RR Stokes Memorial Prize Amelia Kudasik

The Sweats Cup Isabella House

The Douai Prize Rennie Chiu and Max Su

PUBLIC EXAMINATION RESULTS 2025

We are delighted to congratulate both our Upper Sixth and Fifth Form pupils on their achievements in public examinations this year.

Downside, like many institutions, is a nonselective school, and one of its greatest strengths academically is its ability to cater to pupils with a broad range of academic strengths. For this reason, although it is tempting to focus just on the top grades of A* and A at A level, or grades 7-9 at GCSE, the true picture of achievement in public examinations is to be found in the Value Added (VA) scores, which are calculated by an independent, external agency, comparing schools nationally. Value Added scores take each pupil’s prior achievement (performance in aptitude tests

for VA scores at GCSE, and GCSE performance for VA scores in the Sixth Form), and predict grades in each subject that pupil is likely to achieve, based on millions of data points from examination candidates nationally in previous years. Where a pupil achieves higher than this predicted grade, the VA score is positive; conversely, if a pupil achieves a lower grade than predicted, the VA score is negative. These scores say much more about a school than examination grades alone. For this reason, we have chosen to share the School’s overall Value Added scores in this report.

Richard Rawlins, Head of Sixth Form

UPPER SIXTH (A LEVEL AND BTEC)

This year’s A level and BTEC candidates were 13 years old when the pandemic hit, impacting their transition from primary to secondary education in an unprecedented way. They were the first year group, post-pandemic, for whom GCSE assessment criteria reverted to “normal”. As parents and teachers, we have all expended a lot of mental energy worrying about the impact of the past few years on these pupils, but they, much to their credit, have refused to be defined by external factors and press stories over which they have had no control, and simply buckled down to the task in hand, embracing the educational opportunities and support afforded to them.

Our philosophy at Downside has always been to ensure that our pupils become the best version of themselves, through pursuits in the classroom, in creative arts, in leadership, on the sports field and in other arenas. We know, and we hope our pupils know, that examination results do not define a person, but we must still celebrate some extraordinary performances by our pupils this year, where over a fifth of the year group achieved 3 or more grades of A*/A, or equivalent, in their examinations. We congratulate Alberto on his 4 A* grades, Charlie on securing his place to read Economics at Cambridge, Ella on her place to read Medicine and Oliver to read Veterinary Medicine, but the achievements do not stop there. This year, as usual, Downside pupils have won places to read a wide range of subjects at leading universities, including Law at Durham, Geography at Exeter, Sports Management at Bath, English at York, Social Anthropology at Edinburgh and History at Newcastle, to name just a few.

Headline figures:

• A*-A 31%

• A*-B 49%

• A*-C 72%

Value Added score:

+2.6 (compared to a national average for independent schools of +1.6)

Value Added scores in Business, Chemistry, Physical Education and Further Maths were particularly strong, a reflection of the broad range of subjects in which Downside pupils achieve significantly beyond what may be expected. Chemistry, Physical Education and Further Mathematics were ranked in the top 1% of schools nationally for their Value Added scores, and Business in the top 2% of schools. Many congratulations to both the teachers and pupils in these subjects.

FIFTH

FORM (GCSE)

Downside pupils once again celebrated excellent GCSE results, doing themselves and the School proud. Very nearly half of all grades achieved were 9-7 (A*/A in “old money”), and particular congratulations must go to Sofia, Emily, Harriet and Natasza whose grades were all 7, 8 or 9. The achievements of pupils in French, where 86% of grades were 8 or 9 (equivalent of A*) and Computer Science were especially impressive, and they, and their teachers, are worthy of special mention. However, as the Value Added scores below demonstrate, pupils across the whole year group surpassed expectations, a tribute to their hard work and resilience.

Headline figures:

• 9 - 8 28%

• 9 – 7 49%

• 9 – 4 93%

Value Added score:

+1.1, ranking Downside in the top 1% of schools nationally for Value Added at GCSE. (For comparison, the average VA score for independent schools nationally was +0.86).

Value Added scores in French, German and Computer Science were particularly strong, with all three subjects ranking in the top 1% nationally, closely followed by Art, Geography and Spanish in the top 2% of schools.

UNIVERSITY DESTINATIONS ‘25

University of Cambridge

Cardiff University

University of Leeds

The University of Edinburgh

Durham University

Royal Veterinary College, University of London

University of York

University of Bath

Bournemouth University

Cardiff Metropolitan University

Cardiff Metropolitan University

Oxford Brookes University

University of Manchester

Kingston University

University of Exeter

Newcastle University

Oxford Brookes University

Bristol, UWE

University of Exeter

University of Bath

Nottingham Trent University

University of Westminster, London

University of Exeter

Bristol, UWE

University of Bristol

Bournemouth University

University of Leeds

University of Southampton

Leeds Beckett University

COURSES STUDIED

Economics

Architectural Studies

Medicine

Social Anthropology with Development

Law

Veterinary Medicine

English

Sport Management and Coaching

Sport Management

Digital Marketing Management

Sport Management

Business and Finance

History

Fashion Promotion and Communications

Geography

History

Fine Art

Sports Business and Entrepreneurship

Philosophy and Modern Languages with International Placement

Sport (Sports Performance)

Interior Architecture and Design

Games Art

Mathematics with Finance and a Year in Industry

Aerospace Engineering

Physics and Philosophy

Design Engineering

Theatre and Performance with Enterprise

Sociology and Criminology

Criminology with Psychology

CHAPLAINCY REPORT

It remains an unlikely privilege to serve as Chaplain of Downside School, seconded from the Diocese of Northampton, with the support of Bishop David Oakley. Being responsible for the sacramental and liturgical ministry in a school such as ours is a daily blessing, given the environment of prayer, reverence, and formation. I am ably assisted by the Lay Chaplain, Paul Andrewartha. Whilst most of the years’ events are as rich and blessed as in previous editions of the Raven, I am glad to share you with some of the highlights of another memorable year at Downside.

Michaelmas – Rome Pilgrimage

A highlight of the Michaelmas Term was the return of the Rome Pilgrimage at the beginning of half term. Hugh Walters and I had long hoped

to organise the trip, and there was great interest from the outset. As half term approached, plans were finalised, and the time came for a group of 24 pupils and staff to fly to Rome, staying at Palazzola, the summer villa of my alma mater, the Venerable English College, perched on the banks of Lago Albano. From there we enjoyed a breathtaking view of the papal summer palace at Castel Gandolfo; Pope St John Paul II once remarked during a visit to the villa that our view was more interesting than his.

On the eve of the trip, we were generously supported by Jesus Tapia and Amanda Ball, who provided accommodation for the boys and girls in Roberts and Isabella Houses respectively. Amanda guided the group in baking and topping our own pizzas to get into the spirit of Italian cuisine. Early

The Venerable English College, Rome

on Saturday morning, our minibus drivers Lawrence and Helen helped us begin our journey by loading suitcases and driving us to London Heathrow.

The first full day in Rome began with an immediate adventure: arriving in the city, we were faced with the obstacle of crossing the road as a half-marathon wove its way around the centre. The advice? Join the runners and cross gradually. We paused for a second breakfast in Campo de’ Fiori before a warm welcome and tour at the Venerable English College, the oldest English institution outside England, dating back to 1362. The College’s Rector, Fr Stephen Wang, reminded us of Rome’s enduring connection to English Catholicism, tracing it back to Pope Gregory sending monks to evangelise the Angles in 596. He invited us to treat our days in Rome as a pilgrimage: to meet God, and to return to our mission fields ready to share what we had experienced.

We made our way to St Peter’s Square to join Pope Francis for the Angelus and his apostolic blessing. Passers-by asked for spare copies of our beautifully prepared prayer cards, which contained the Latin responses. Lunch followed at Ristorante

Polese, the Chaplain’s personal favourite, and in the afternoon we strolled through the winding streets and piazze of the Eternal City, admiring Piazza Navona, the Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon. Along the way, we marvelled at Caravaggio paintings and enjoyed pizza, pasta, coffee, and of course, gelato. That evening, we returned to Palazzola for Mass, refreshment, and rest.

Our second full day in Rome brought us to the Vatican Museums, where we refined the art of queuing – waiting two and a half hours to enter. The reward was more than worth it.

St Peter’s Basilica, Rome

Basilica of St Paul’s outside the walls, Rome

Staff at Mass at the Catacombs of St Sebastian, Rome

We encountered two millennia of artistic and historical treasures, including Raphael’s School of Athens, and finally entered the Sistine Chapel, the site of papal conclaves. There we beheld Michelangelo’s extraordinary frescoes: the Creation of Adam on the ceiling and the Last Judgement behind the altar. After a leisurely

lunch at the museum café and some time for shopping, we made a final visit of the day to St Paul’s Outside the Walls for a moment of quiet reflection. Fr Michael asked one weary pupil, “Was it worth all the queuing?” The answer: “Definitely. I will remember it for the rest of my life.”

Our last full day focused on ancient Rome. We began with Mass in the Catacombs of St Sebastian, fittingly on the Memorial of St John Paul II. A guided tour through the ancient burial site revealed early Christian inscriptions invoking St Peter and St Paul. We continued to the Colosseum, once a venue for both entertainment and martyrdom. Lunch followed in a classic Roman trattoria, after which we enjoyed free time for exploring the Forum, San Clemente, San Stefano Rotondo, and of course, shops. Back at “DOP” (dear old Palazzola), the sunset over the lake crowned the day with beauty.

On our final morning, we visited Castel Gandolfo for a tour of the papal summer residence, which Pope Francis had opened to the public. We even stepped inside the papal apartment itself. This was a first not just for the students, but even for the Old Roman among us. After some last-minute shopping, we made our way to Fiumicino Airport for our flight home.

In the Papal Gardens, Castel Gandolfo, Rome

Lent Term – Feast of the Presentation of the Lord (Candlemas)

Summer – Habemus Papam

On Easter Monday, 21st April, we received the news that Pope Francis had died. It was especially poignant as 24 staff and students had prayed the Angelus with him in St Peter’s Square during the Rome pilgrimage earlier in the year. The next day, during the INSET, we reflected on Pope Francis’ legacy and his final Easter blessing. We connected his life to St Peter’s bold proclamation at Pentecost and invited everyone to be open to the Holy Spirit. We prayed for Pope Francis and for the election of a new pope.

On Wednesday 23rd April, we celebrated our start-of-term Mass during the Easter Octave. It was the first Mass at which Pete Thomson led the Schola Cantorum, featuring five cantors and a beautifully sung liturgy. The tradition of blessing pencils and exam candidates continued. We chose not to offer a requiem Mass for Pope Francis that day. Instead, we reflected on the appropriateness of his passing during the Easter Octave. We explored his humility, his commitment to mercy and welcome, and reflected on how he might have lived among us, had he been a Downside student.

On Friday 25th April, we offered the regular 7.40 am Low Mass as a requiem for Pope Francis, with proper prayers and red vestments, remaining at the main altar, which was still beautifully adorned for Easter. At least 25 attended this voluntary liturgy. The following morning, Mass was offered in the Old Chapel on the first day of the novemdiales. Saturday morning lessons were suspended to allow students to watch the Pope’s funeral or to study quietly. The funeral was broadcast in the theatre and in houses.

Divine Mercy Sunday, 27th April, was marked by our second annual retreat for Old Gregorians, parishioners, and others. The Chaplain celebrated and preached the Mass, while Dom Leo and Dom Michael led talks and heard confessions. We shared a holy half-hour, including the recitation of the Divine Mercy Chaplet, and Benediction assisted by Aleksander.

On Thursday 1st May, Jonah and Valentina were baptised in the Abbey Church with family members present. That evening, rehearsals took place for the Confirmation liturgy, which brought together candidates from Downside, the parish, and St Mary’s Calne. Every candidate, including visitors, received

Baptism of Jonah and Valentina

Confirmation Mass 2025

the Sacrament of Reconciliation the night before, with Dom Martin supporting us.

On Friday 2nd May, Bishop Bosco visited Downside for the first time to celebrate the Confirmation Mass. Dom James was also present, coinciding with a meeting of the Oblates. Bishop Bosco greeted each family afterwards, a gesture much appreciated, although Bishop Declan’s brevity and pastoral economy were also missed after his 23-year tenure.

On Thursday 8th May, white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel. The Gasquet Hall became the place to watch the announcement of Pope Leo XIV. Students debated whether to risk missing the moment for supper. Applause broke out when the new pope appeared. The following Sunday, as the

Pope marked his inauguration, the Schola Cantorum chanted Oremus pro Pontefice, and all sang ‘Holy God we praise Thy name’ by way of a Te Deum.

On Sunday 11th May we held a Marian procession for the local parish and School community, passing through the monastery grounds, concluding with Vespers and Benediction in the Lady Chapel. The revived Sodality of Our Lady led decades of the rosary in several languages, supported by Chris Stowell and Jesus Tapia, with a wide repertoire of Marian hymns being sung.

Tuesday 20th May saw the Second Form retreat at Lamyatt, celebrating Mass in the 12th-century church. During preparations, the Chaplain discovered we were short on altar breads, but a passer-by walking his dog kindly contacted the

Procession of Our Lady

verger. He also happened to be related to the Archbishop of Canterbury during the abdication crisis and shared that Lamyatt was a ‘Thankful Village’ – a unique connection for a retreat setting.

On Wednesday 21st May, thanks were offered at the Communities’ Barbecue to our outgoing Head of Chaplaincy and Heads of Sacristy. Their support had been exceptional, especially as we adjusted to the absence of monks in the daily life of the School. The handover of chaplaincy responsibilities then loomed large. Awele, a student of ancient Greek and committed member of the Lectio community, was appointed by Andrew Hobbs as the new Head of Chaplaincy. Awele has already begun rehearsing readers and supporting liturgies. Francis and Mateusz, reliable servers – Francis since third form –were appointed Heads of Sacristy from September. Their letters of application expressed a genuine desire to serve.

On Corpus Christi Sunday, 22nd June, the School concluded Mass with a Corpus Christi Procession to the West end of the Basilica, with Benediction.

On 23rd June, Alberto and Alex were baptised in a moving ceremony. A group of choristers supported, and the Sodality prayed the rosary beforehand. Afterwards, the choir led Compline.

From 24th–26th June, we joined colleagues in three days of service with students: repairing hundreds of hymn books, visiting Belmont Abbey and Dom James’ new parish, and ending with a Sodality event exploring Marian imagery across the Downside site, and a final talk with Chris Stowell about Our Lady.

The academic year concluded with a Solemn Mass of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus on Prize Day.

Fr Michael Patey, School Chaplain

Corpus Christi Procession

Baptism of Alex and Alberto

LAY CHAPLAIN’S REPORT

St Richard Gwyn Catholic School Visit –6th – 8th December

Over the weekend of 6th – 8th of December, during the blustery conditions of Storm Darragh, we were delighted to welcome pupils and staff from St Richard Gwyn Catholic School to Downside for their first visit. This new connection between our two schools was fostered by George Hobbs (R17), a former Downside pupil and now an English teacher at St Richard Gwyn, who was eager to connect his current school with his Downside roots.

Despite the stormy weather and the group just making it over the Prince of Wales M4 bridge, the weekend was filled with warmth, fellowship, and a shared spirit of faith. On Friday evening, the visiting pupils joined the Downside School community for our weekly hymn practice, before enjoying an

energetic session of Scottish dancing in the Old Gym, led by Mr Hobbs himself.

On Saturday morning, pupils from both schools came together for a series of chaplaincy sessions, designed to promote reflection, prayer, and dialogue. St Richard Gwyn pupils led a thoughtprovoking session on refugees and social justice, while Downside pupils hosted a ‘Prayer Spaces’ activity in the Rutherford room, offering interactive and creative prayer activities. Additional sessions included an introduction to Lectio Divina, a Rosary session held in the beautiful Lady Chapel of the Abbey Church, and a guided tour of the Abbey Church, led by Fr Michael.

The weekend concluded on Sunday, where pupils from St Richard Gwyn took an active part in Sunday Mass, saying the Prayers of the Faithful and presenting the Offertory gifts—a moving conclusion

to a weekend rich in shared prayer and friendship. Throughout the weekend, pupils from both schools formed new connections and friendships, laying the foundation for an enduring partnership between our communities.

On Thursday 19th June, twelve pupils from Downside School travelled to South Wales for a day of fellowship with our friends at St Richard Gwyn School, Barry — and what a day it was!

After an early 7am departure from the Quad, we made the two-hour journey to Barry Island. The day began with a beautiful and thoughtful morning prayer assembly, led by the Year 8 chaplaincy team at St Richard Gwyn, offering moments of reflection and prayer.

We then travelled to the ancient and remarkable St Illtyd’s Church in Llantwit Major, often described as the “cradle of Celtic Christianity” and “Britain’s earliest seat of learning.” Pupils had the opportunity to see — and even touch — three extraordinary Celtic crosses, closely examining the intricate carvings and soaking in the deep Christian heritage of the site.

From St Illtyd’s, we set off on a walk along the stunning Wales Coastal Path, eventually reaching UWC Atlantic College at St Donat’s Castle. The afternoon was filled with food, fun, and friendship, including climbing, games, and shared time together in the beautiful castle grounds.

We give thanks to God for a truly joyful, sunny, and spirit-filled day with St Richard Gwyn — a celebration of faith, laughter, and connection. We already look forward to continuing this wonderful partnership when we meet again in December!

Manquehue Oblate Visit – Lent Term

During the first half of the Lent Term, it was a special time for our Downside community, as we warmly welcomed the Manquehue female Oblates back to the school, since they left in 2017. Their visit offered not only a time of shared fellowship but also a valuable opportunity to strengthen links with EBC Houses and schools across the country. Together, we journeyed through a series

of events designed to help the pupils deepen their understanding of Lectio Divina, celebrate the Year of Jubilee, and support the ministry of chaplaincy within the School and our wider Benedictine family.

• Lectio Pupil Leaders’ Retreat: Forming New Lectio Leaders

On Thursday 6th February, nineteen pupils from the Fourth and Lower Sixth Forms gathered in the Butler Room for the Lectio Leaders’ Retreat. Over a relaxed supper with the Oblates, pupils explored what it means to be a leader within Lectio groups—a role that calls not only for confidence but also humility and a listening heart.

The evening continued in the Gasquet Hall, where pupils took part in thought-provoking discussions, interactive games, and reflections on the practice of Lectio Divina. There was a strong emphasis on leadership skills and on how to create welcoming, prayerful spaces for others. The retreat concluded beautifully with Evening Prayer in the Old Chapel, led by the Oblates—bringing a sense of peace and unity to all who gathered.

• Lectio Jubilee Celebration: Marking the Church’s Year of Jubilee

On Friday 7th February, the Weld Café was transformed into a vibrant space for our Lectio Jubilee Celebration. Organised in collaboration with the Oblates, the St John Community, and members of the Chaplaincy team, the event invited the wider school community to come together in celebration of Lectio Divina and the Year of Jubilee.

Pupils enjoyed games, shared food, and moments of reflection, while three of our current Lectio leaders offered personal testimonies about the role Lectio has played in their spiritual journeys. Their inspiring words encouraged others to consider stepping into this form of prayer, showing how Lectio Divina can be both accessible and transformative.

• EBC Chaplains’ Retreat: A Time of Stillness and Support

From 9th to 11th February, Fr Michael and Paul Andrewartha attended the EBC Chaplains’ Retreat at Worth Abbey, led by the Oblates and Mary Hurst, the Benedictine Schools Formation Coordinator. It was a deeply enriching time to pause, reflect and reconnect with chaplaincy colleagues from across the English Benedictine Congregation.

The retreat provided sacred moments of prayer, meaningful conversation, and the sharing of experiences from our various school contexts. These times of fellowship were a powerful reminder of the support and strength found in our shared mission to nurture the faith journeys of the young people entrusted to our care.

Flame National Catholic Young Congress –Wembley Arena 2025 – 15th March

On Saturday 15th March 2025, a small group of pupils had the opportunity of joining thousands of young people from across the country at Wembley Arena for Flame 2025, the largest gathering of Catholic youth in the UK. The event, organised by CYMFed (Catholic Youth Ministry Federation), offered an inspiring day of music, worship, reflection, and community.

Under the theme ‘Unstoppable’, this year’s Flame Congress encouraged young people to explore how faith can be a source of courage, hope, and resilience in today’s world. Through powerful talks from renowned speakers, like Bear Grylls OBE and Issac Harvey MBE, uplifting worship music from One Hope Project and Adenike Adewale, and moving testimonies from

many Catholic based charities, pupils were invited to reflect on how they can live out their faith with passion and purpose, especially in this Jubilee year.

Among the highlights of the day were keynote addresses from international youth ministers and social justice advocates, live worship led by talented musicians, and moments of stillness and prayer that offered space for personal reflection. The atmosphere inside the packed arena was electric, filled with energy, joy, and a shared sense of belonging to something much bigger than themselves.

For many pupils, Flame 2025 was a transformative experience—an opportunity to see the vibrancy of the Catholic Church alive in the next generation, and to be reminded that, despite the challenges they may face, their faith and hope can make a real difference in the world.

As we returned home, pupils spoke of feeling uplifted, inspired, and encouraged to bring the spirit of Flame into their own lives and communities.

Weekly ‘HelpForHomeless’ Bath SoupRun

During the course of the academic year, two of our Sixth Form pupils give up their Thursday evening and go into the heart of Bath city centre, where they take part in the School’s longstanding ‘Soup Run’ with the Somerset charity ‘HelpForHomeless’. More than just distributing food and clothing, the Soup Run offers pupils a chance to engage with the wider community, providing not only material support but also warmth, conversation, and dignity to those experiencing homelessness.

In partnership with ‘HelpForHomeless’, our pupils meet at the outreach van where they help serve soup, a bag of food, and hot drinks, as well as distribute essential items such as hats, gloves, and blankets. But perhaps most importantly, they offer time—to listen, to talk, and to acknowledge the humanity of every individual they meet.

For many pupils, the experience is eye-opening and humbling. It challenges them to confront social issues they may only have previously read about or just seen walking by someone in the street, while also nurturing empathy, resilience, and a sense of social responsibility. Week after week, the pupils reflect not only on the needs of those they serve but also on their own values and privileges.

The Soup Run continues to be a key part of the School’s service programme, reminding us all that small acts of kindness can make a profound difference. It fosters connections that break down barriers and inspires pupils to carry forward a lifelong commitment to offer Benedictine values of ‘welcoming’ and ‘concern for the individual’.

Rowan Park Care home

Every Wednesday afternoon, a small group of pupils step beyond the School grounds and visits the local Rowan Park Care Home. As part of our weekly activities programme, these pupils dedicate their time to engaging with the residents—bringing conversation, laughter, and friendship to those living there.

The visits offer a valuable space for intergenerational connection. Whether through a competitive game of Scrabble, sharing stories over a cup of tea, or playing music for the residents, the pupils create moments of joy and friendship that are deeply appreciated.

For the pupils, these visits are more than an activity—they are an opportunity to develop empathy, patience, and understanding. The residents, in turn, enjoy the lively energy, culture and fresh perspectives the pupils bring into their home each week. Over time, bonds have formed that are enriching for both the pupils and the residents, reminding us all of the enduring value of companionship and community.

Led by Mr Andrewartha, these weekly visits to Rowan Park continue to be a highlight of the activities programme, offering pupils a meaningful way to give back while gaining insights that go beyond their day to day lives.

Paul Andrewartha, Lay Chaplian

FROM THE NEWS HOUSES

BARLOW

Head of House: George Buhagiar

Deputy Head of House: Daniel Flynn

House Prefects: Johnny Rowell, Ching Cheung (Max) Su, Adrian Mes, Patrick Colgan

Describing Barlow merely as a boarding house hardly does justice to what it truly is. Ours is a living, breathing community - built on camaraderie, shared ambition, and a healthy dose of wit. Whether it is toastie feasts in the kitchen, Sunday pickleball, or quiet acts of generosity that go unseen, this year has exemplified what it means to belong to Barlow.

This academic year was shaped by remarkable energy, humility, and spirit across all year groups, under the steady guidance of our House team. Mr Potter continues to serve as a pillar of the House, providing not only wisdom but also consistent nourishment - both emotional and culinary. Mr O’Rourke always offers thoughtful direction, he leads the Fourth Form retreat early in the year and oversees their assimilation into the House, while Mrs Webb and Mrs Chapman ensure the House remains a true home. Mr Edge, Mr Walters, Mrs Allen, Mr MacNamara and Mr Thompson all bring their distinctive talents, and Tammy Gould, as ever, keeps everything running smoothly behind the scenes. To this extraordinary staff team: thank you. From the very start of the year, Barlow stamped its mark on inter-house competitions. A commanding win in the cross-country, where Orson Greensmith took first place, set the tone. House rugby saw a senior team denied victory, but we claimed the overall win through grit across the age groups. House Music was equally memorable—thanks to an outstanding effort from the Upper Sixth. Though we narrowly missed out on the part song, the House triumphed in both hymn and instrumental categories, thanks in no small part to

Adi Mes and Max Su. No-one understands how we missed out on the overall win.

At the very end of that term, the House won Christmas Dash, thanks to outstanding efforts across the team. This was a fantastic win, and a fitting end to the Michaelmas term for us all.

In Barlow we always strive to aim for leadership that is not about status or recognition, but about quietly supporting others, building up the community, and responding generously to the needs around us. Early in the academic year, our Fourth Form pupils take part in a formative retreat led by Mr O’Rourke. This retreat plays a vital role in shaping their initial experience of the Barlow House. Through shared prayer, reflection, and team-building, pupils begin to form strong bonds with one another and gain a deeper understanding of the spiritual values that underpin our community. It sets the tone for a life of purposeful contribution - where each student learns that true leadership is found in service.

In the Lent Term, debating took centre stage. Under the leadership of Johnny Rowell, Barlow remained unbeaten. With support from Patrick Colgan, Edward Howlett, Dani Flynn, and George Buhagiar, we earned a well-deserved victory in the final against Isabella—an achievement even Aristo hadn’t managed the previous year!

Summer Term saw near-glory on Sports Day. Falling short of victory by just three points to

Roberts was bittersweet, but as the smallest boys’ house, this result reflects enormous character and effort. Elsewhere, Sunday pickleball reached cult status, driven by the competitive fire of staff and pupils alike. This was thanks to Mr Potter, Mrs Webb, Johnny Rowell, George Buhagiar, Dani Flynn and Adrian Mes.

Barlow boys were instrumental to many of Downside’s top teams. In rugby, four of the six 1XV caps went to Barlow: Adrian Mes (vicecaptain), Edward Howlett, Johnny Rowell, and George Buhagiar, supported by strong seasons from Dani Flynn, Orson Greensmith, Francis Mathew, Josh Gathungu, and Cameron Colbourne.

In hockey, a dominant season featured wins over regional rivals. Barlow contributed heavily: Francis, Cameron, George, and Orson were regular starters, with Francis and George collecting end-of-season awards. Cameron and Francis also earned their First Team colours, while George won his Cap.

Football saw an exceptional campaign with tight matches throughout. Dani Flynn led the attack,

Johnny Rowell wore the armband at times, and Adi Mes was near-impermeable in goal. Conrad Petersen and Felix Campbell Meehan added youthful drive from the Lower Sixth. Caps went to Johnny Rowell, with colours awarded to Dani Flynn and Adi Mes.

Cricket began slowly but hit stride midterm, with Barlow boys again forming a core: Francis Mathew, Cameron Colbourne-Jennings (as captain), Orson Greensmith, and Ishaan Santarossa. A highlight was Cameron’s century against Monkton Combe—an innings of flair and composure. The team also faired very well against the Wanderers, just falling short.

Barlow’s presence in Badminton has long been dominant, and this year was no exception. Coached by Mr Potter and Max Su (Capt), the team included Carl Chan (vice-captain), Desmond Chan, Edwin Kwong, and Alex Henson, making Barlow the backbone of the squad.

First team tennis was fiercely competitive, with thrilling matches that went down to the final point, culminating in a convincing win over

Leweston. Dani Flynn captained the team with Johnny Rowell and George Buhagiar also in the team, also coached by Mr O’Rourke and Mr Potter. In all these arenas, Barlow boys played with heart, discipline, and pride.

A short break from public exam preparation

for the pupils, the Barlow House at Home was on a beautiful sunny Sunday in mid-May. Parents and pupils teamed up for Mass, reflections on the year, musical performances, and a sumptuous lunch. The Heads of House, George and Dani, the Head of School, Edward and musicians surpassed themselves in the contributions and were supported by the pupils and parents on a very congenial day.

As the curtain draws on another extraordinary year, Barlow House stands tall in the community. The Upper Sixth leave behind more than accolades; they’ve left behind memories, mentorship, and moments of quiet integrity that will last, and for the coming years to further and develop. The future Upper Sixth have much to emulate and develop upon and will be spearheaded by Francis Matthew (Head of House) and Stephan Kinsky (Deputy Head of House).

George Buhagiar (Head of House 2024 – 2025)

CAVEREL

Head of House: Isabella Preston

Deputy Head of House: Fenella Taylor

House Prefects: Kee Yan (Martha) Che, Rennie

Mei Yee Chiu, Eugenia Navarro Fernandez, Julia Kierepko (Head of Service), Jana Kinsky, Louisa Norris

Caverel House continues to evolve under new management each year. This year’s Prefect team have stamped their identity throughout the House and the girls could not have been more different and diverse. Head of House, Isabella has led with kindness with Deputy, Fenella at her side. Rennie, Julia, Jana, Luisa, Eugenia and Martha have been a supportive and productive team of Prefects and they have led the way through a host of House competitions but more notably in supporting the younger girls and helping them to navigate the ups and downs of a busy school life. They have all brought warmth and care into the House. Lower Sixth pupils have also stepped up with Fifi taking the helm for Chaplaincy whilst Diana organised events around Book Week as Library Prefect.

Isabella has summarised her year as Head of House as follows: Caverel 2024-2025 has been an era of growth for the Upper Sixth. Starting off strong with the Michaelmas term, a key highlight being the start of year party where all members of the House had to search around the School for the Prefects who were hiding. Later on that term, we had our Christmas party highlighted by the choreographed dances performed by each year group. We also had the inter-house music competition and I think that many of the Prefects would agree with me in saying that this performance was the highlight of the year. Caverel showed its true vibrancy, colour and sassiness. We have had many girls coming and going from international countries this year and the friendships

and bonds that have been built since September is really lovely to see – especially when looking back at the bonding activities we had at the beginning when people were meeting for the first time. Overall, this year has been one of real growth for Caverel - we have seen girls come out of their shells over time to become confident and resilient in what they do at Downside, ourselves included.

It has been a varied year of trips, outings, social events and activities with girls taking part in a host of events from retreats to pony trekking. The Third Form have had a busy year and lots of change as girls came and went for short stays but making lasting friendships along the way. Their full programme of trips and events have played a big part in that, and they have enjoyed trips to Berrow Beach, Lane 7, Escape Rooms, cinema trips, ice skating, an outdoor day in November with caving, canoeing and mountain biking, Duke of Edinburgh and, of course, Skern Lodge. They have also had lots of shopping trips in Bath. The Fourth Form have had a quieter year but they enjoyed ice skating in the Michaelmas term and a memorable bonding weekend getting them out of their comfort zone to make new friendships. The Fifth Form enjoyed a great social in the Lent Term, a fabulous retreat over two days, pizza parties and pottery and much more. There have been some great socials for the Sixth Form this year giving opportunities for the girls to swap dresses and boogie in their finery.

The Upper Sixth have feasted on Chinese takeaways at the weekends, and have also thoroughly enjoyed meals out as well as our termly Sixth Form dinners.

Caverel girls are courageous and spirited and they rise to challenges with smiles and face paint whether it be overcoming personal barriers or being outplayed in House competitions. It is the House spirit and community involvement that makes for the best memories win or lose. Sadly, this year, we have not made a mark on House sport events. We do have, however, a number of individual performers who are making a splash. Rosie continues to make her mark in the golfing world reaching finals and winning some big competitions this year and starting on the England pathway which includes studying for another qualification on top of her A levels. Valentina in the Fourth Form is also making waves in her pentathlons outside of school; both girls maintaining a gruelling training schedule on top of their school work. Luisa has led us admirably in sports this year and she writes: “As Sports Prefect, I have worked hard to bring spirit and motivation into the House and to encourage our girls to exercise and maintain their wellbeing. I have been lucky enough to be Captain for 1st team hockey and 1st team netball and I have brought my leadership from these teams into the House. I have been proud to see a massive level of participation from Caverel girls in sport across the School this year. They have also made me proud with their engagement in various House events across the year. Starting off with the annual Christmas

Dash, where we showed great resilience upholding our Caverel spirit with excessive amounts of face paint even though it was cold outside. This energy then carried through to House hockey where a mix of ages from every year came together to create one team. It was a great and playful game full of great sportsmanship and laughter. Although Isabella took the win by a small margin, Caverel walked away with smiles as we took this opportunity to bond and encourage one another. Netball last term showed a massive growth in outcomes of matches. Girls’ netball across the board exceeded expectations and we had some of the strongest teams Downside has seen for several years. Caverel girls showed up to support the Juniors’ House Netball, where they showed off their green and white stripes and showed commitment and eagerness to get on the court. Summer term had an uplifting start with the sun shining, encouraging all the girls to grace the tennis courts. Sports Day is one of the biggest House events. This was a fantastic day and every Caverel girl got involved in 2 or more events. We were particularly proud of Esther and Valentina K who excelled on the track. They did Caverel proud and their wins and medals added to the excitement everyone was feeling. Overall, I have greatly enjoyed having the responsibility of leading girls sport in Caverel and am excited to see how they get on next year.”

House at Home is always such a wonderful time to bring our wider community together. This year was no exception, and the prefects planned a day that was entertaining and welcoming for our parents. Isabella summarises the day as follows: “House at Home this year was a really wholesome day filled with girly laughs and jokes all around. We showed our character as a house from the Third Form’s choreographed Shakira dance to Emily’s beautiful piano performance. The Prefects really wanted to emphasise our gratitude to the House Parents and the parents of all of the Caverel girls through organising this joyous day filled with speeches, shows and gorgeous smiles, celebrating all of the many different talents and personalities we have to offer in our house.”

Caverel House boasts many talented musicians many of whom have performed in lunchtime concerts and events throughout the year. Jana took part in the prestigious Fowkes Recital; Harriet is wowing us all with her many instruments; Jess continues to delight on her Harp; Esther has been regaling us with jazz piano from the Top Common Room; Ellie and Linda are ladies of rock and the girls in the choir are heard throughout the House day and night! Jana writes about this year’s House Music competition below which although not a victory, was hugely impressive and took hard work and commitment: “This year’s house music was a success for Caverel, because we won the prize for best instrumentation. Our musicians supported us with their amazing skills, Emily on piano, Jess with the harp and Daphne with the flute during our hymn ‘Immaculate Mary’, where all the choir members also added harmonies and a descant in the last verse. Our house song ‘Man, I Feel Like A Woman’, was accompanied by Julia on the keyboard, Linda with guitar and Rako on the drums, giving a great basis for Harriet to add to it with her trumpet and making the music feel real. On top of that, we worked hard on a complex

choreography, which turned out amazing. ‘Lollipop’ was our part song, for which we even brought giant lollipop props that added to our performance.”

The House fundraiser enabled us to purchase a new pool table and we have begun the transformation of the Top Common Room with a craft corner with sewing machines and craft equipment. The craze this year has been crochet with Agatha, Rako, Ms Orme and many others leading the way. Harriet and Lourdes began puzzling and on requesting a more challenging puzzle, Ms McGarry purchased a Frozen Autumn scene which will probably take the next three years to complete. It provided much needed mindfulness during examination season and a chance for different girls to interact around a shared challenge. A final farewell to our leavers who will always be My Little Buttercups in my mind due to their first House Music effort! I cannot believe they have finished their school careers, I hope they bring their buttercup vibrancy to their next chapters!

Anna McGarry, House Mistress

ISABELLA

Head of School: Zara Mkparu

Head of House: Amelia Kudasik

Deputy Head of House: Emily Stanislas

Head of Juniors: Cosima Melotte

Deputy Head of Juniors: Jedidah (CJ) Yakuba Samaila

House Prefects: Kara Campell Meehan, Ella Chow

“Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much.” — Helen Keller

As another academic year draws to a close, it is with immense pride and gratitude that I reflect on what has been a truly joyful and successful year in Isabella House. From the very first day of term to the final goodbyes of the summer, the House has been alive with laughter, learning, and the unmistakable warmth of a community that continues to grow stronger with each passing year. Under the thoughtful and enthusiastic leadership of our Head of House, Amelia, and her equally dedicated Deputy, Emily, the girls have flourished—not only in their individual pursuits but also in the way they have supported and uplifted one another, embodying the very essence of what it means to be an Isabella girl.

This year, our House spirit shone brightly across all areas of school life, not least in the inter-house sporting competitions, where our girls gave their all in hockey, netball, athletics, chess, debating and even film making! Their determination, teamwork, and unwavering encouragement of one another were a joy to witness, and it was clear that every girl, regardless of ability, felt valued and inspired to contribute. The sense of unity and pride was palpable, and it is this collective spirit that continues to define our House.

One of the most memorable highlights of the year was undoubtedly the House Singing Competition, where we were honoured to be named joint winners alongside Smythe House. Our chosen hymn, Soul of My Saviour, was sung with reverence and grace, while our Whole House Song, Wings by Little Mix, brought energy and joy to the stage. However, it was the hauntingly beautiful rendition of Can’t Catch Me Now by Olivia Rodrigo—so thoughtfully arranged by Ella—that truly moved the audience and showcased the depth of talent and emotion within our House.

Beyond the arena of House competitions, Isabella House has continued to be a place of belonging, where girls of all ages feel safe, supported, and celebrated. Our junior girls, from First to Third Form, have brought boundless energy and enthusiasm to the House, and they have been wonderfully nurtured by Cosima and CJ, whose care and creativity have ensured that the younger girls have felt not only welcomed but truly at home. From outings to ice cream parlours and countryside walks, to ice-skating adventures and bouncing around at AirHop, the juniors have enjoyed a year full of fun, friendship, and unforgettable memories.

Our annual House at Home event was another joyful occasion, bringing together pupils, staff, and families for an afternoon of music, laughter, and community spirit. The musical performances from our talented girls were nothing short of inspiring, and the delicious roast lunch provided by our eversupportive catering team was enjoyed by all.

The Isabella House Fair, with its colourful stalls, face painting, tombola and now legendary Human Fruit Machine was a particular highlight, capturing the creativity and enthusiasm that our girls bring to everything they do.

Academically, the House has remained a calm and focused environment, where girls have supported one another through the challenges of assessments and final exams. Whether through quiet evenings of study—no small feat for our lively juniors—or through peer-led study skills groups, the girls have shown a deep commitment to helping one another succeed, and I would like to wish all of the girls that have sat public examinations this summer every success.

A defining feature of life in Isabella House is the deep sense of spirituality that underpins our daily rhythms and relationships. As a Catholic, Benedictine school, we are fortunate to be part of a wider community that values reflection, prayer, and the nurturing of faith. This year, the girls have taken increasing ownership of their spiritual journey, with pupil-led Lectio Divina sessions

becoming a cherished part of House life. These quiet, contemplative gatherings have offered a space for stillness and shared reflection, allowing the girls to pause amidst the busyness of school life and connect more deeply with themselves, with one another, and with God. It has been deeply moving to witness the sincerity and maturity with which the girls have approached these moments, and it is a testament to the strength of their faith and the bonds they share.

Of course, none of what we do in Isabella would be possible without the extraordinary dedication of the wider team who support the House so tirelessly. Our domestic team—Hayley, Louise, and Toni—are the unsung heroes of our daily life, working with such care and good humour to ensure that the House is always clean, welcoming, and well looked after. Their hard work behind the scenes makes an enormous difference, and we are so grateful for all they do. Among the House staff, we are blessed with a team whose commitment and compassion are second to none; Miss Ford, our beloved House Mother, is

the heart of Isabella—always ready with a kind word, a listening ear, or the miraculous ability to reunite girls with their lost belongings! Her warmth and wisdom are a constant source of comfort to the girls, and her presence is felt in every corner of the House. Miss Packer, our Assistant House Mistress, brings boundless energy and generosity to her role, encouraging good sports”wo”manship and always leading by example, whether on the sidelines of a House match or in the quiet moments of daily life - this year we were also fortunate to have Miss Guy our RSA; her calm, caring manner and gentle encouragement have made a lasting impression on the girls, and we thank her for all she has brought to the House. On Sundays, Mrs St Clair brings her own special blend

of kindness and calm, helping to make the end of the week feel restful and restorative.

Our academic tutors also deserve heartfelt thanks for the care and attention they give to each year group. Miss Packer has guided our First and Second Form girls with patience and positivity, while Mrs Randall has supported the Third Form with her characteristic warmth. Mr N Barrett has been a steady and encouraging presence for the Fourth Form and we are also grateful for Mrs N Barrett and the beautiful birthday cakes that she makes for the girls in her husband’s tutor group! Mrs Spurling has guided the Fifth Form with insight, care and cake through this vital year, and in the Sixth Form, Mrs Williams and Mrs Eckford have shared the responsibilities of the Lower

Sixth with great dedication, and Shaun Barrett has been a constant support to our Upper Sixth girls—this team are vital to the support system that is available for the girls, always ready to step into any role, even that of Father Christmas or a mischievous Elf, when the occasion calls for it! Their willingness to go above and beyond is deeply appreciated by all of us in Isabella.

As we look ahead to the coming year, I am filled with excitement and optimism. Our newly appointed prefect team have already begun to share their ideas and hopes for the future, and it is clear that they are eager to build on the strong foundations laid by Amelia, Emily, and the “small but mighty” outgoing team. Their enthusiasm, kindness, and sense of responsibility are already shining through, and I have no doubt that they will lead the

House with the same grace and integrity that we have come to expect from our student leaders.

In closing, I would like to thank every girl in Isabella House for the part she has played in making this year so special. Whether through acts of kindness, moments of courage, or simply by being a good friend, each of them has contributed to the spirit of sisterhood that defines our House. Isabella is more than just a place to live—it is a second home, a family, and a community where every girl is known, valued, and loved. It has been a privilege to share this year with them, and I look forward to all that lies ahead.

Amanda Ball, House Mistress

POWELL

Head of House: Finn O’Kane

Deputy Head of House: Alex Henson

House Prefects: Alva Kwan, Viktor Meier, Harry Garrett, Luca Camilleri, Albert Folch, James Mason-Carney, Josh Uhrmacher, Mateusz Kaminski, Juan Duve, Alex Karl, Edwin Kwong, Sacha Tournier, Alphonso Yip, Jack Hunter, Ryan Kwok.

As another academic year draws to a close at Downside, I’ve taken time to reflect on the past ten months within the vibrant boarding environment of Powell House. It has been a real privilege to contribute to the growth and development of our pupils, many of whom arrived in September new not only to the School but, for some, to the country as well. I was truly heartened by the warm welcome extended by existing pupils, who played a vital role in helping the newcomers settle into life at Downside.

I remain deeply grateful to the House Team for their tireless dedication and support. My sincere thanks go to my Assistant House Master, Jamie Gostlow, and to Matthew O’Neil, who stepped in at the last minute to act as Assistant during the Michaelmas and Lent terms. I would also like to thank our team of tutors – Adam Broomfield (Resident Tutor), Josh Huckle, and Chris Stowell – all of whom provided outstanding guidance to both pupils and staff through their involvement in tutoring, duties, and tutor-led trips. Special appreciation must also be extended to our House Parents, Michelle Pollard and Tina Biberger, for their daily care and commitment to the boys, and to Sharon, our cleaner, for maintaining a clean and welcoming environment.

Over the course of the year, the boys have actively engaged in a wide range of co-curricular activities including Drama, Music, Sport, and the CCF. I particularly enjoyed watching and

coaching the U14 Rugby and U13 & U14 Cricket teams, which gave many pupils the chance to try these sports for the first time. A personal highlight was the U14s’ at Rosslyn Park National 7s Tournament – a fitting reward for their hard work and development. Under the leadership of Oliver Bellord and Oscar Tagent, standout performances came from Galo Puras Mendez-Castrillon in defence and Eric Wu attack.

The U13 cricket team also enjoyed a strong season, with an unbeaten season Downside batted first and posted a strong total of 109 runs from their 16 overs. The boys showed excellent intent from the start, rotating the strike well and capitalizing on loose deliveries. Several batters chipped in with valuable contributions, helping the team reach a competitive total. Wells responded confidently, staying in the chase for much of the innings. However, tight bowling and smart fielding from Downside in the final few overs kept them to 102, just 7 runs short of the target.

Our “House at Home” event in November was another standout moment, showcasing the remarkable musical talent within Powell. Memorable performances came from Eric Wu & Antoine Crews-Montes, among others.

Throughout the year, pupils’ efforts and academic achievements have been recognised through merits, Head’s Teas, certificates, and of course, the occasional chocolate treat. The following boys received prizes in the

end-of-year assembly: Benji Bellord (Head’s Prize for Outstanding Academic Achievement), Henry Beard (Head’s Progress Prize), Maxwell Bellord & Arthur Garrett (Head’s Essay Prize), David Jones (Head’s Prize for Outstanding Academic Achievement & Head’s Essay Prize), Oliver Bellord (Head’s Essay Prize), David Edwards (Head’s Essay Prize, Maths & Classics), Oliver Garrett (Head’s Essay Prize), Arthur Mills (RS), Michael Whithear (Computer Science & Chemistry), Oliver Hayhurst (Drama) & Eric Wu (PE). Congratulations to all!

Our House trips this year included a wide variety of activities – from paintballing and pantomimes to visits to Bath and Bristol for rugby, basketball, and shopping, along with fun outings such as Ninja Warrior, Air Hop, crazy golf, and ten-pin bowling.

The penultimate weekend of term saw our Third Form boys and girls head to Skern Lodge, an Outdoor Education Centre in Appledore, Devon. Pupils took part in kayaking, climbing, and surfing, as well as team-building activities. It was a joy to witness their growing confidence, mutual support, and the formation of new friendships across Houses.

Finally, I would like to commend Finn O’Kane

and Alex Henson for their leadership of the Powell Prefect Team. They have balanced academic focus with service to the House and have been good role models. We thank them for their contributions and wish them every success in their future endeavours.

Max Gauntlett

ROBERTS

Head of House: Alberto Wong

Deputy Head of House: Kian Simms

Guest Master: Jaime Alique Ortiz

Sports Captain: Joseph Ladipo

Flagbearer: Louis Bryan

Prefects: Louis Joy, Justin Lam, Kaosi Kema

As we draw the curtain on another memorable year in Roberts House, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks and best wishes to all of our leavers. Whether you are moving on from the Upper Sixth or departing earlier in your Downside journey, please know that you leave with our admiration, gratitude and best hopes for all that lies ahead. I encourage you to keep in touch with the house and let us know how you are getting on in the exciting chapters that follow.

The Roberts Class of 2025 will be dearly missed. Their warmth, humour, and resilience have helped to shape the spirit of the House this year. It has been a privilege to work alongside them, especially our superb team of Prefects.

Alberto Wong has been an exceptional Head of House. He has demanded high standards from the boys in Roberts House and worked meticulously to ensure that duties were not only met within the House but across the wider school community. All of this he has balanced alongside an admirable commitment to his A Level studies. In addition, Alberto took it upon himself to complete the “100 Press-ups a Day in June” challenge, raising a considerable sum for Cancer Research UK; a remarkable personal effort for a worthy cause.

Kian Simms has been an enthusiastic and approachable Deputy Head of House, always on hand to support his peers and guide the younger pupils. A natural leader, he has brought the House

together through various initiatives, fostering unity and a shared sense of purpose across year groups. His presence has been vital in enhancing the sense of community in the House.

As Guest Master, Jaime Alique Ortiz has played a key role in arranging many memorable House events this year, adding colour and warmth to the House calendar. In addition to this, he has served with reverence and diligence as Head of Sacristy, and I know Fr Michael is grateful to him for his efforts.

Joseph Ladipo has done a fantastic job as Sports Captain, leading the House to numerous victories and encouraging wide participation in House competitions. He has led by example, becoming the 400m Somerset County Champion, and going on to place third at the South West Counties competition – a tremendous individual achievement. Joseph has also been one of the most reliable and dutiful prefects in the house, and a wonderful influence on younger pupils.

Louis Bryan, Kaosi Kema, Justin Lam and Louis Joy have completed the Prefect team, each playing an integral role in the life of the House. Louis B and Louis J have been calm and approachable influences, always willing to help. Justin has offered unwavering reliability in completing tasks asked of him, and Kaosi has brought a great sense of humour and kindness to all he does.

Roberts House has also enjoyed some impressive successes in competitions this year –most notably on the sports pitches. Our triumphs didn’t stop there; we also found ourselves topping the table in chess tournaments and even enjoyed a sweet victory in a fiercely-contested inter-house competition involving baked goods!

As ever, none of this would be possible without the incredible staff team that supports the boys day in, day out. I remain deeply grateful to Dr Tapia, Mr O’Neill, Mrs Muse, Mrs Scott and Ms Gregory for their tireless commitment and care. My thanks also go to the dedicated tutor teamMr Dolman, Mr Bryson and Mr O’Sullivan - who have each played an important part in nurturing and guiding the boys through the highs and lows of the academic year.

We are also fortunate to have the continued support of Roberts House parents, whose involvement and encouragement have meant so much. Your partnership helps us to maintain a

safe, happy and thriving environment, and it is greatly appreciated.

I am excited about the upcoming new school year. We are blessed with another outstanding team of Prefects ready to take on the mantle of leadership. Harry will serve as Head of House, with Ryan as his Deputy. Jack will take on the role of Guest Master, and Luca will lead as Sports Captain. Alex will bring focus and wisdom as Academic Assistant Head of House, while Sacha will represent the House honourably as our new Flag Bearer. Completing the team will be Alphonso, Rupert and Hugh; each of whom brings great strength to what will be a dynamic and dedicated group.

What follows is a personal and heartfelt reflection from our Guest Master, Jaime, who shares his highlights from a fantastic year in Roberts House.

Joshua Freeman, House Master

“The start of the Upper Sixth year really does feel like the beginning of the end, and now more than ever, it has hit us as we look back on everything we have done as a house. This year had some great highlights, starting with House Music. Let us be honest, Roberts is not a singing house, that much is clear. But we gave it our all. We went in with energy and passion, even if we did not come away with any prizes. “I Need a Hero” will be remembered as one of the most iconic performances; a full display of Roberts spirit. The passion, the strength, and the choreography showed exactly what we are all about.

Our part song, “Don’t Worry,” was organised by the Upper Sixth, with some help from other years. The final performance may not have gone as smoothly as planned, but we will remember it for the

effort and the laughs. We cannot forget our hymn

“Longing for Light”, a classic that always lights up faces in Hymn Practice. Not everyone appreciated our “artistic talent,” but many complimented us for being “exceptionally loud and clear.” We took that proudly.

Both Sixth Form dinners this year were a success. The tradition of prefect prizes continued, with Alberto and Kian keeping the spirit alive. This year’s awards were even more entertaining thanks to Alberto and Juan, whose uncontrollable laughter had the whole room in stitches.

House at Home was another highlight. Alberto, Luc, Sacha and Ryan Kwok gave a memorable performance of “My Way”. Jack’s poetry also stood out: clever, funny, and well-prepared; his rhymes had everyone laughing.

This has been a winning year for Roberts. We took home victories in House Rugby, the Inter-House Gingerbread Competition, and House Chess. Sports Day was the peak. Everyone gave their all, and we won by a clear margin. The trophy came home where it belongs.

Our paintballing trip returned for a second year, letting everyone target their favourite (or least favourite!) members of staff. There was definitely an obsession with Mr Broomfield. I can confirm everyone, including him, had a great time. More than that, it was brilliant to see leadership and teamwork in action.

We are very lucky in Roberts to have the staff we do. Mrs Muse and Mrs Scott, our House Parents, are always there whether for laundry emergencies or advice. They genuinely care and help the House run smoothly. Carol, our cleaner, is unmatched. Her high standards somehow get boys to care about hygiene. We cannot thank our House staff enough, especially us in Upper Sixth, who have leaned on them countless times.

Late in Lent term, we received bittersweet news. Dr Tapia stepped down as Assistant House Master. His laugh was the most contagious in Roberts, and he will be greatly missed. But then came good news Mr O’Neil stepped into the role. After his time in Powell, he joined Roberts with great energy and classic “dad jokes”. We are thrilled to have him. Mr Freeman

also deserves a big mention. His constant smile and phrases like “get involved” or “you alright, buddy?” genuinely lift everyone’s spirits. He truly cares, and it makes a difference.

My time at Downside has helped me grow. I have learned to take on responsibility, and that is thanks to being part of Roberts. Now, as we hand over to the next Upper Sixth, I wish Harry and Ryan the very best as Head and Deputy Head of House.

Finally, thank you to everyone who made this year unforgettable. Roberts has truly been a home, and I am beyond grateful”

Jaime Alique Ortiz, Guest Master in Roberts House, 2024/25

Head of House: Frederick Podesta

Deputy Head of House: Charles Pike

House Prefects: Alexander de Pelet, Casper Hayhurst, Harvey Hayhurst, Euan Elston, Aleksander Korczagin (Head of Chaplaincy), Jonah McGarry

We stumbled across an old Downside Newspaper from 1984 called ‘The Rook’ that reviewed certain chaotic school events. It contained an article about three boys that managed to borrow a cement truck from the local quarry one night after a pub outing. As another academic year draws to a close, Smythe finds itself in a period of calm success, a far cry from the legendary tales of the past. This year has been defined by composure and academic ambition. We were so inspired by the Rook article, we wanted to showcase Smythe’s achievements during the academic year:

Academic Excellence & University Success

We begin on an academic high with a congratulations to Charlie for receiving an offer from Cambridge to study Economics at Jesus College. A well-earned recognition of relentless effort (and quite possibly the most annotated revision notes known to man). While others were grappling with past papers, Charlie was calmly forecasting the economic fall-out of tuck shop inflation.

The Fifth Form have been diligently preparing for their GCSEs, adopting the usual strategies of working in the library or pretending to work in the library. Meanwhile, the Upper Sixth have faced their A Levels with determination. Casper, having chosen the noble BTEC route, blazed through his coursework and was seen relaxing in April with an ease that suggested he’d already retired. He may have finished early, but he made

the most of his time, notably by representing the House in three 1st teams – football, hockey, and cricket. With his greatest sporting achievement being able to hit a Range Rover over the fence with an aerial shot mid-game that allegedly, “just ricocheted”.

Music & Performance

The House came together musically in spectacular fashion this year. Our performance of “Blame It on the Boogie” at House Music was a masterclass in coordinated chaos. Questionable choreography and dodgy falsetto singing voices meant we emerged victorious in the main competition. James, Ermin, Albert, Antoine and solos from Aleksander, Euan and Jonah meant that we also secured the victory by a mile in the part-song, performing “And so it goes” by Billy Joel.

In the Fowke Recital, Aleksander Korczagin clinched the top prize with a performance that was both technically brilliant and emotionally stirring. It was a proud moment – especially as the recital was made up of 60% Smythe showing the musical domination of the house.

Sporting Success

It’s been a remarkable year for sport in the House, with a strong showing of boys across all 1st teams. Harvey led the 1st XI football team as captain with energy and composure. Jasper made his 1st team hockey debut while still in the Fourth Form, a feat made even more impressive considering he was still getting lost on his way to the pitch. The 1st Hockey was led by captain Charlie and vice-captain Freddie, having the best season since 2007.

Alec, a true House stalwart, was appointed cross country captain. His leadership came with relentless motivation and the kind of optimism usually reserved for weather forecasts. He also starred in the infamous “Christmas Dash” eating competition, where he inhaled mince pies and chocolate covered Brussel sprouts with such speed it prompted health and safety concerns, earning the nickname ‘Alec the Animal’.

Maxence, who showed incredible promise in cross country, sadly left after the first term, possibly scared off by the aforementioned eating competition. His spot in the House was filled by Jerry, who immediately made an impact on the basketball team and earned his place in House lore.

Debate & Drama

This year’s debating season brought both triumph and trauma. Jonah led the house team with eloquence and fire, delivering arguments so sharp that at times the opposition and audience were close to tears – a debate highlight and, perhaps, a slightly concerning milestone.

The School musical Oliver! was a true Smythe showcase. James took centre stage as Fagin, convincing enough to make the front row check their pockets. Aleksander thundered through as Mr Bumble with trademark authority, while Antoine delivered the important role of Oliver. Behind the scenes, Freddie ran the lights with theatrical flair as Head of Lighting.

House Life & Community

One of the defining features of this year has been the sense of calm and camaraderie that’s permeated through the house, the House has generally functioned like a well-oiled – if slightly distracted – machine, according to Mrs Nash.

Behind the scenes, the House ran smoothly thanks to the efforts of many. Diego and Puya have become near-permanent fixtures in the kitchen clean-up crew, showing a level of commitment normally reserved for romantic comedies and elite military operations. Thanks to their efforts, the rest of the house has avoided several food hygiene violations.

This year also saw a significant change in House leadership. Our Deputy Housemaster, Mr Ramsden, stepped down from his role though not without leaving behind several iconic assembly monologues and a collection of legendary corridor one-liners. Mr Staines, stepped in with poise, patience, and a firm belief that the best cure for talking during the register is a voluntary two-

minute plank in front of the whole house.

Edward has represented the house in the CCF with pride and a passion for issuing surprisingly convincing commands. It’s widely agreed that if there’s ever an apocalypse, we’re all following Edward.

Closing Thoughts

A huge thank you must go to Mrs Nash and Mrs Moran for keeping the house running with a level of organisation, patience, and humour that most of us can only aspire to. Jackie’s ever-present support continues to keep standards high and chaos at bay. Mr Pollard has provided steady guidance and unflappable calm. Mr Staines, in his first year as Deputy Housemaster, has already proven himself indispensable, part disciplinarian, part plankenforcer. And of course, to all the tutors who put

up with late-night emails, half-baked excuses, and questionable corridor logic — thank you. The House runs because of your efforts.

As the academic year concludes, Smythe stands not just as a boarding house, but as a community; one where achievements are shared, laughter is common, and assembly punctuality remains an elusive goal.

From musical brilliance to sporting triumphs, late-night kitchen clean-ups to mid-speech mic drops in debate, this has been a year full of memorable moments and the sort of gentle chaos that makes house life what it is.

Here’s to another year of hard work, good humour, and hopefully fewer Range Rovers in the line of fire.

By Freddie and Alec

Sporting representatives:

Hockey 1st XI

C. Pike

F. Podesta

C. Hayhurst

G. Marinus

J. McGarry

A. Vermeersch

Football 1st XI

H. Hayhurst

C. Hayhurst

C. Pike

G.Marinus

H. Bonneau

P. Katuzi

Rugby 1st XV

J. McGarry

F. Erfurt

R. Vaughan

M. Avlasevich

Cricket 1st XI

J. McGarry

C. Hayhurst

I. Quaife

Caps and colours:

Caps:

F. Podesta, C. Pike, J. McGarry, A. Korczagin, E. Elston, H. Hayhurst

Colours: C. Hayhurst, A. de Pelet, A. Folch, E. Cheung, G. Marinus, M. Kaminski, J. Mason-Carney

SIXTH FORM CENTRE

As I say in my introduction to the Sixth Form option booklet, and as I repeat in my talks to parents and pupils, I truly believe that the start of the Sixth Form is the single most exciting point in a pupil’s education. It is the first time that, as a pupil, you have control over what you are going to study, that your voice matters that much more; not only that, but, as a Sixth Former, you are now a senior pupil in the organisation, and as such can influence how that organisation operates, both as a role model to younger pupils and as a leader collaborating with staff. It is, perhaps, these last points that make the transition to Sixth Form even more important than the start of university, where one is, once again, one of the juniors, so to speak. I look back to my own time at school and how

excited we were to join the Sixth Form. It was the small differences back then that seemed to have that much more import; we moved from working in exercise books to working on loose-leaf paper (Sixth Formers could easily by identified by the fact that they were carrying two or three arch-level files to their lessons); our teachers started using our first names rather than just our surnames (it was the 1980’s!); most of all, though, our teachers knew that we had chosen their subject because we shared a common interest, indeed sometimes passion, in it. It is that shared interest that enables a change in focus in Sixth Form classes from simply being taught a subject to discovering it collaboratively with your teacher, an element that is fundamental to Sixth Form lessons at Downside. The ability to specialise academically at the

age of sixteen is, globally, almost unheard of, other than in the A level system; it is not without disadvantages, but it is a wonderfully exciting opportunity. The obvious disadvantage, of course, is that many, indeed most, sixteen-year-olds do not yet know what they would like to do later in life, and they worry that their choices for Sixth Form study may close doors to them for the future. This is not a problem unique to pupils at Downside, but rather one that all schools and pupils in England must consider. This is why, at Downside, we offer both considered, informed advice to our pupils as they start to think about their Sixth Form options and a high level of flexibility in terms of curriculum choice and the possibility of changing subjects.

The opening of the Sixth Form Centre (SFC) towards the end of 2024 marked one of the most significant recent developments in life at Downside. The ethos of the Centre reflects the ethos of the Sixth Form PSHE programme and other aspects of Sixth Form, namely one that is preparing Downside pupils to leave us. The SFC is similar to spaces students use at university for study and socialising, and this is part of preparing our pupils for that transition from secondary school to the next step. The SFC gives our pupils that much more control over how they study; it is a place where they can work independently or, just as importantly, collaboratively, and it is always uplifting to see pairs or groups of pupils helping each other with their work. As the centre “belongs” to the Sixth Form, they are responsible for keeping it

in good order, for clearing up, washing up and ensuring the facility is well looked after, and this they have done exceptionally well. The Sixth Form clearly respect the Centre, appreciating the lowkey supervision, the vending machine, snooker table and the bespoke furniture, so beautifully designed to be in sympathy with the architecture in which it sits. The views over the gardens on one side and the Monastery Library on the other add to the joy of the Centre, a joy enhanced especially during the Christmas period with strings of gently glowing lights and poinsettias in the window bays.

The SFC gives our pupils that much more control over how they study; it is a place where they can work independently or, just as importantly, collaboratively, and it is always uplifting to see pairs or groups of pupils helping each other with their work.

Life in the Sixth Form is both about endings and beginnings. As a school we want pupils, by the end of their Upper Sixth, to want to leave; if we have done our job well, they will no longer feel the need for the constraints of rules or of constant academic support, as they will have acquired the skills to navigate their way independently. They will, of course, know that they will always be welcome to come back to see us, to share their stories and successes, and we will be delighted to see them, but, rather like parents watching their offspring leave the nest, a successful school will have equipped the Sixth Form with the confidence, skills and desire to embark on the next stage of life, supporting themselves more independently. The opportunities they are afforded in the Sixth Form at Downside - completing an EPQ, learning how to prepare simple meals in PSHE or dinner party dishes in Fine Dining, serving in a leadership role, whether that be as part of Chaplaincy, CCF, sports team or in a pastoral role as a prefect –all combine to make Downside pupils confident that they have the skills and resilience needed for success, whether they are moving on to university or into the world of work.

As I reflect on my time as Head of Sixth Form, I know that I have been privileged to be in that role. As far as the academic year is concerned, the EPQ presentations are always the highlight; I continue to be in awe of the authority and depth of knowledge that our pupils show in these presentations, the culmination of hours and hours of research and writing. Discussing post-Downside pathways,

whether that be exploring degree apprenticeships, gap years or to which university courses a pupil may be best suited, has also been a great pleasure. Particularly with the new Sixth Form Centre, I have often felt that the role of Head of Sixth Form at Downside is like a distillation of the very best parts of being a tutor, House Master or Mistress and teacher, without the more frustrating aspects of those jobs, and our pupils invariably make such a role rewarding. We are rightly proud of our Sixth Form offering and of our Sixth Form pupils, and we continue to explore ways to enhance what is already an enriching experience.

Richard Rawlins, Head of Sixth Form

The opportunities they are afforded in the Sixth Form at Downside - completing an EPQ, learning how to prepare simple meals in PSHE or dinner party dishes in Fine Dining, serving in a leadership role, whether that be as part of Chaplaincy, CCF, sports team or in a pastoral role as a prefect – all combine to make Downside pupils confident that they have the skills and resilience needed for success, whether they are moving on to university or into the world of work.

SOCIETIES

ABINGDON SOCIETY

The Abingdon Society, one of the oldest school debating societies in the country and itself responsible for the first Raven magazine in 1884, had another full year of inter-house debating, a trip to the Oxford Schools Debating Competition in Birmingham, and a successful participation in the Public Speaking Competition among the Catholic schools of the Clifton Diocese.

This year’s debating competition produced a number of very entertaining debates, one disaster and a very finely balanced final. One of the best was the final heat between Smythe and Barlow on the whether this House preferred Harry Potter to the Lord of the Rings, which showcased a detailed knowledge of each and a fascinating duel as to the respective merits of each world. Another well attended debate was on the merits of Taylor Swift as a role model between the two girls’ houses, which also had a fascinating analysis of the meaning of the lyrics of her songs. The young competitors could not really agree on the definition of a Nokia phone which puzzled the much older judges, whilst Roberts were straining against their natural inclination in trying to argue against God’s existence. Isabella showed their skill in arguing convincingly that university was a waste of time and money, although they failed to recognise that degree apprenticeships still required universities. The problems of AI were well explored, as were the issues of population density in the UK; the debate on assisted suicide was won by the house arguing in favour, where Roberts failed to mention the role of palliative care sufficiently. In the final which touched upon conscription for both sexes at the age of 18 to defend the country, Mr Grinsell who was the judge gave the trophy to Barlow for arguing that this defence could lead to being put on the front line and being engaged in combat, whereas Isabella were arguing more for a year of national service, which included environmental work. It was good to see members of the Lower Sixth and Fifth Form taking part as well as members of the Upper Sixth in the

course of the year.

Two students attended an in-person round of the Oxford Schools Debating competition at RGS Worcester, Juan Duve and Julia Kierepko. This entailed only 15 minutes to prepare a motion with two teams of two supporting and opposing. Thus the skill was far more extempore speaking fluently with less interruptions than the Abingdon. It was a stimulating experience; previously an online round had led to the in-person finals. The skill of parliamentary debating is clearly slightly different and perhaps better suited to highly fluent speakers of English as a first language.

The public speaking competition was undertaken this year by Awele Obinna Onunkwo and Eloise Pickett, the former delivering a speech on whether honesty is the best policy should apply to politicians, and the latter on climate change. Both gained an equal 3rd place award.

Perhaps the most surprising and gratifying news is that the rules of the Abingdon are now the rules of the Cambridge inter-collegiate debating competition, started and continued for a second year by Joseph Rowell which now has 12 colleges competing. Joseph is the older brother of Johnny Rowell who was winner of the individual debating prize this year and head of Barlow’s winning team in the competition. Congratulations to both of them and many thanks to all those who organised the debating this year and helped chair debates and set up the house debating pairs- Julia Kierepko, Cosima Mellotte, Louis Joy, Jonah McGarry and Johnny Rowell.

Hugh Walters, Head of Theology and Teacher of History

THE INTER HOUSE CHESS TOURNAMENT

The Inter House Chess Tournament took place during the final half term of the academic year, drawing enthusiastic participation from pupils across all year groups. Nearly thirty pupils signed

up to represent their Houses in the opening stage, where each House played three matches against all other Houses, one in each category: Junior (First to Third Form), Intermediate (Fourth and Fifth Form), and Senior (Sixth Form).

Thanks to the dedicated efforts of Chess Captains Awele and Maria (both Lower Sixth Isabella), who actively encouraged participation, Isabella House impressed with a strong showing in the opening round of the competition. Their outstanding performance earned them eight points and the top spot in the first round — a remarkable improvement on previous years. A special mention goes to Maria (First Form Isabella) who earned four of the eight points for Isabella, an outstanding individual contribution. Roberts House also performed admirably, securing six points to clinch the second place and a spot in the final.

The concluding matches were held on a sunny Wednesday afternoon in the Theatre Quad. Both Houses were well-represented, and players

competed with great focus and determination. Ultimately, Roberts claimed victory, winning all three games to secure this year’s trophy.

Congratulations to Roberts Chess Captains Juan and Alva (both Lower Sixth Roberts), and to their team — Henry (First Form Roberts), Emilio (Second Form Roberts), Louis (Second Form Roberts), Axel (Fourth Form Roberts), Christof (Fourth Form Roberts), Luc (Fourth Form Roberts), Louis (Fifth Form Roberts), Dylan (Lower Sixth Roberts) and Alberto (Upper Sixth Roberts) — on their well-deserved win.

Inter House Chess Cup: Roberts House

Head of Mathematics

THE NOTRE DAME CAFÉ

The Notre Dame Café was first launched at the end of the last academic year as part of our Three Days in June programme. Its aim was simple yet meaningful: to provide a welcoming space where the local community could gather and enjoy time together. Pupils prepared and served homemade cakes along with tea or coffee to all visitors. While donations helped cover the cost of ingredients, most of the proceeds went to our chosen charity, Mary’s Meals.

Building on its initial success, the café opened its doors nearly every Wednesday throughout this

Jesus Tapia,

academic year. It quickly became a hub of activity and community. Mr Stowell and his Bridge Club held their weekly meetings in the café, and Dr Valente regularly brought a small group of pupils focused on learning about Italian language and culture to enjoy the setting.

Although attendance did not always reach our hopes, the commitment and enthusiasm of the pupils made a meaningful impact. Their efforts significantly contributed to Downside’s charitable goals, raising over £600 for Mary’s Meals — enough to feed more than 30 children for an entire school year.

There were several standout moments during the year. Our Advent celebration on Wednesday 4th December welcomed a large number of local guests and concluded with Downside pupils singing Silent Night. On Shrove Tuesday, café volunteers sold pancakes in the School’s Main Hall, raising nearly £100 for Mary’s Meals.

The café also welcomed a number of special visitors. Philip Fowke (B67) stopped by at the end of a tour he led for pupils and staff exploring Downside’s rich architectural heritage. Guests

enjoyed a delicious array of brownies and cakes generously baked by Mrs Maggs, alongside pumpkin muffins made by our dedicated café volunteers. Later in the year, Fr James Hood also visited to meet with volunteers and assist in planning a staff trip to Belmont Abbey and his parish St Francis Xavier in Hereford, scheduled for Three Days in June this year.

Looking ahead, we hope to open the café monthly in the next academic year, continuing to offer a warm and welcoming space for pupils and the local community to connect and share in something meaningful.

THE SODALITY OF OUR LADY AT DOWNSIDE

Over the past two academic years, the Sodality of Our Lady has grown steadily in both strength and numbers. What began as a small gathering of

Jesus Tapia, Head of Mathematics

pupils meeting weekly to pray the Rosary in the Chaplaincy Office has now flourished into a vibrant community of students and staff.

The Sodality of Our Lady holds a special place in Downside’s history as its oldest society, founded around 1640. Open to all members of the senior school, entry into the Sodality follows a term of probation, after which full membership is granted. Members commit to attending weekly meetings to pray the Rosary, participating in an additional weekday Mass, and offering daily prayers for both the School and the monastic communities.

In recent years, the Sodality has gravitated towards the early morning Masses celebrated by Father Michael in the Abbey Church, initiated at the request of Joszko (B24) and Pawel (S24). These liturgies rotate among the various chapels within the Abbey, offering a unique opportunity for pupils to explore and appreciate the sacred spaces of this remarkable building.

Mr Andrewartha, our Lay Chaplain, is a regular and supportive presence at weekly meetings, offering encouragement to members. We are also deeply grateful for the spiritual guidance of Father Michael, whose genuine interest in the Sodality and readiness to support its initiatives have been a great source of strength and inspiration.

Since the group’s resurgence, six pupils and two staff members have been formally enrolled, in two separate Masses. At the end of the last academic year, Aleksander (Upper Sixth Smythe), Julia (Upper Sixth Caverel), Mr Stowell, and Dr Tapia

were inducted during a special Mass in the Lady Chapel. Aleksander continues a family tradition, following in the footsteps of his father, Igor (S95), who still treasures the cross he received upon joining the Sodality as a Downside pupil.

More recently, on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception in 2024, James (Lower Sixth Smythe), Juan (Lower Sixth Roberts), Mateusz (Lower Sixth Smythe), and Sacha (Lower Sixth Roberts) received their Sodality crosses. The night before, members gathered in the Head’s Dining Room for a shared meal and joyful celebration, further strengthening the bonds of faith and fellowship that define the Sodality today.

As this academic year draws to a close, we bid farewell to Alberto, Aleksander, Euan (Upper Sixth Smythe), Ella (Upper Sixth Isabella), Jaime (Upper Sixth Roberts), Julia, Louis J (Upper Sixth Roberts), and Mr Stowell, all of whom have been valued members of our weekly Sodality meetings. Aleksander, Jaime, Julia, and Mr Stowell were among the small group who helped revive the Sodality during its recent resurgence, and their commitment has been deeply appreciated. In particular, I would like to express heartfelt thanks to Mr Stowell for his unwavering support. His enthusiastic presence, warm companionship, and steadfast faith have played a significant role in the Sodality’s growth.

Hugh Walters, Head of Theology and Teacher of History

THE INTER HOUSE DEBATING COMPETITION 2024-25

For each debate the first named House proposes and the second opposes.

20/09/2024

This House would have a Nokia phone Isabella v Smythe 23-21

4/10/2024

This House would cease to put women in combat roles Caverel v Barlow 10-23

15/11/2024 This House supports the educational changes of the Labour Government Smythe v Caverel 21-22

29/11/2024

This House declares that God exists Barlow v Roberts 22-20

10/01/2025

This House opposes legalising assisted suicide Roberts v Smythe 20-21

24/01/2025

This House believes there are too many people in the UK Barlow v Isabella 23-23

07/02/2025

This House thinks university is a waste of time and money Isabella v Roberts 24-23

07/03/2025

This House regards Taylor Swift as an excellent role model Caverel v Isabella 24-23

14/03/2025

This House fully supports the development of AI Caverel v Roberts 23-22

21/03/2025

This House prefers Lord of the Rings to Harry Potter Smythe v Barlow 24-25

Totals: Caverel 79 Roberts 85 Smythe 87 Barlow 93 Isabella 93

FINAL: Between the Houses with the most points

‘This House would help defend the country by a year’s conscription for men and women aged 18’ Barlow were given the win.

CLASSICS

As the academic year draws to a close, the Classics Department is pleased to reflect on a year rich with exploration, intellectual growth, and meaningful engagement with the ancient world. Across all year groups, our students have taken part in a diverse array of activities that have brought the classical past to life, challenged their thinking, and deepened their appreciation for the enduring legacy of Greek and Roman civilisation.

Our journey began with great energy in the Michaelmas term, as our Fourth Form students embarked on a thoughtful workshop on ancient Greek theatre. Through the study of two seminal tragedies— Antigone by Sophocles and The Trojan Women by Euripides—students grappled with the complex themes of fate, moral conflict, and civic responsibility. Discussions were rich with insight as pupils considered the relevance of these ancient stories to contemporary issues of justice, power, and resistance. These timeless plays not only offered a window into the cultural and political landscape of ancient Athens but also invited our students to reflect on the personal and societal choices we continue to face today.

Meanwhile, our younger students in the First and Third Forms immersed themselves in hands-on learning early in the school year. During September and October, they embarked on educational visits to two significant Roman sites: the Roman villa at Chedworth and the Roman Baths in Bath. These trips formed part of a wider investigation into social change and family life in the Roman world. At Chedworth, students explored the layout and daily rhythms of villa life, marvelling at mosaic floors and underfloor heating systems that spoke of Roman innovation and domestic culture. In Bath, they examined the role of public bathing in Roman society, delving into the relationship between hygiene, ritual, and community. These excursions offered our students a tangible connection to the past, bringing classroom study vividly to life through direct experience.

In the Lent term, the department turned its focus to storytelling, myth, and moral reflection. A special workshop on ancient Greek myths was held for our First Form pupils, centred on the theme of heroic choices and the ethical dilemmas faced by mythological figures. Through interactive activities, dramatic readings, and creative exercises, students examined the actions of characters

such as Heracles and Perseus. This workshop provided a stimulating forum for critical thinking and self-reflection, encouraging pupils to consider how ancient narratives still speak to questions of courage, loyalty, and personal integrity.

The year culminated in a particularly memorable Summer term, with a three-day enrichment experience in June that took a group of students to the northernmost reaches of the Roman Empire. The theme of this year’s activity days was Pilgrims of Hope, and the department’s contribution centred on a journey to Hadrian’s Wall, Vindolanda, and the Roman Army Museum. Along the wall, students walked in the footsteps of Roman soldiers and frontier settlers, contemplating what it meant to live at the very edge of an empire. At Vindolanda, they encountered an extraordinary array of archaeological finds, from shoes and writing tablets to tools and household items, each one telling a story of everyday resilience and adaptation. Students engaged deeply with the concept of historical legacy—not merely as a set of facts to be learned, but as a living conversation across time.

More than simply a field trip, this experience served as a meaningful capstone to the year’s learning. It reminded us that the study of the ancient world is not confined to books or classrooms but is something we carry with us into the wider world. Themes of friendship, community, perseverance, and the search for meaning—central to both ancient texts and modern lives—resonated powerfully

throughout the journey. Students returned not only with new knowledge but with a strengthened sense of purpose and curiosity.

Throughout the year, the Classics Department has aimed to cultivate in our students the twin virtues of discovery and discernment. By engaging with the complexities of ancient societies, they are learning to ask thoughtful questions, to challenge assumptions, and to recognise the continuities and contrasts between past and present. Whether through the solemn drama of Greek tragedy, the architectural ingenuity of Roman engineering, or the moral puzzles posed by ancient myth, students have been invited to explore not only what it means to be Roman or Greek, but what it means to be human.

As we look ahead to a new academic year, we remain committed to providing opportunities for intellectual adventure and meaningful connection. The study of the classical world is not simply about learning what has come before—it is about discovering what is still possible. We are proud of all that our students have achieved this year, and we are grateful for the ongoing support of parents and the broader school community who help make these enriching experiences possible.

Roberto Valente, Head of Classics

MODEL UNITED NATIONS SOCIETY

In October 2025, the world will mark eighty years since the signing of the United Nations Charter— a founding document shaped by the hope that diplomacy might avert future catastrophe. At Downside, our Model United Nations Society continues to explore that founding promise in miniature: testing ideas, resolving conflict through dialogue, and challenging pupils to speak not only persuasively, but responsibly. Over the course of the year, pupils have sharpened their rhetorical skill, broadened their global awareness, and learned how to charm a General Assembly into passing a clause. With debates ranging from outer space to apartheid, the Society has offered challenge, camaraderie, and no shortage of talking points over tea.

Our year began in the Michaelmas Term with a confident showing at Queen’s College MUN, where twelve pupils formed two delegations representing Saudi Arabia and Rwanda. In the Special Political and Decolonisation Committee, Albert Folch and Christof Lai-Micallef debated the humanitarian crisis in South Sudan, navigating peacekeeping clauses with poise. In ECOSOC, Alec de Pelet and Euan Elston addressed migration policy, with Alec reflecting on

labour dynamics in the Gulf states. Maria Milczarska and Francis Matthew tackled HIV/AIDS prevention in the WHO, with Francis praised for clarity and Maria for composure under pressure. Diana Korban and Juan Duve addressed refugee rights in the Human Rights Committee, while Kit Chater made the case for reforestation in the Environmental Committee. Every pupil contributed meaningfully to debate and clause-writing, and all came away with greater fluency in MUN procedure and persuasive speaking.

The Lent Term brought a change of pace with Bristol Grammar School’s historic-themed conference, where debates unfolded in 1972, 1985, and 1994. Representing Israel, our five-strong team engaged with issues ranging from Vietnam peace talks to apartheid and the collapse of Yugoslavia. Kit Chater, in the 1972 Committee, struck a careful balance in navigating the complexities of the Vietnam conflict. Julia Kierepko, in the 1985 Committee, tackled apartheid-era politics with resolve, advocating for stronger international sanctions. Juan Duve, in the 1994 Committee, was a persuasive voice for humanitarian corridors and was awarded Highly Commended Delegate. Albert Folch Serra joined the Science and Technology Committee on carbon sequestration, delivering a sharp technical intervention on international innovation. In the Emerging

Committee, Christof Lai-Micallef moved fluently through decades of space governance—from the 1967 Outer Space Treaty to modern privatesector dilemmas. For their collective performance, Downside was awarded Best Delegation—a proud moment and well-earned recognition.

Beyond conferences, the Society has met weekly, drawing pupils from the Fourth to Upper Sixth Form. Michaelmas sessions focused on core skills: how to structure a speech, draft an operative clause, and navigate Points of Order and Information. In the Summer Term, we turned to more philosophical ground, debating artefact restitution—should cultural treasures like the Benin Bronzes, Elgin Marbles, and Nefertiti’s bust be returned? Pupils examined treaties, museum charters, and national laws before drafting nuanced clauses with an eye to both history and justice. To close the year, we took on the fraught diplomatic tensions between Israel and Iran—an exercise in nuance, research, and restraint.

As the United Nations enters its ninth decade, our pupils are learning what it means to engage with the world—critically, creatively and with compassion. With strong foundations, a growing membership, and no shortage of global challenges to debate, the Society’s future is bright—and keen to be heard.

POLITICS

This has been the inaugural year of Politics at Downside—and it could hardly have come at a more eventful time. With a UK General Election, shifting party loyalties, and rising global tensions, our first cohort of Sixth Form pupils have studied politics not as distant theory, but as something lived and unfolding.

The classroom has had a truly international dimension. Pupils from São Tomé, Ukraine, Russia, Nigeria, Kenya, Mexico, Argentina, Poland and the UK brought global perspectives to discussions ranging from protest and participation to electoral design and democratic accountability. This diversity has deepened our analysis and encouraged debate grounded in real-world experience.

In the Michaelmas and Lent Terms, pupils focused on UK Politics—exploring democracy and participation, electoral systems, and political parties. The 2024 General Election served as a powerful case study. Labour’s landslide victory on just 34% of the vote and record-low turnout (59.7%) sparked rich discussion about mandate, representation and electoral fairness. Pupils evaluated First Past the Post using tools such as the Gallagher Index and compared it with proportional systems used in Scotland and Wales.

A highlight was our simulated general election, where pupils designed and defended policy platforms, balancing ideology with electability.

Jamie Gostlow, Head of Politics and MUN Coordinator

Lessons also emphasised source analysis, structured argument, and real-world examples— skills pupils used with increasing confidence in essays and class debate.

The Summer Term brought politics off the page and into the real world. A departmental trip to Westminster included a visit to the Adam Smith Institute, where pupils learned how think tanks influence policy. We toured the Houses of Parliament, stood in the Supreme Court room where the Gina Miller prorogation case was heard, and reflected on the recent withdrawal of Prince Harry’s libel claim, which had brought renewed legal attention to the same venue. We look forward to visiting the Senedd in Cardiff next term, to explore devolution and proportional representation in practice.

The department also welcomed several outstanding guest speakers. Sir Jacob ReesMogg joined us in March to speak on the future of the Conservative Party and traditional conservatism. Newly elected Anna Sabine MP (Liberal Democrat) offered reflections on voter engagement and democratic reform. Most recently, Simon Lemieux, Politics author and examiner, gave a timely talk on US politics—exploring the role

of the Supreme Court, campaign finance, and the challenges of a divided electorate.

Politics pupils have also taken an active role in co-curricular life. Many lead sessions in the Bede Society or Model United Nations, bringing political awareness to younger year groups and demonstrating their capacity to think critically, speak confidently, and collaborate effectively. Discussions this year have ranged from Lords reform and climate policy to global human rights and constitutional change.

Looking ahead, we are excited to introduce the Global Politics course next year. Pupils will explore power, sovereignty, development and human rights on the world stage—topics made more vivid by the backdrop of international elections, summits, environmental negotiations and ongoing global conflict. Our international cohort is ideally placed to bring insight and depth to these debates. The future of the department feels both exciting and urgent.

Jamie Gostlow, Head of Politics

THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY

As the year began, The International Society hosted its delightful Moon Cake Festival Tea, giving many curious pupils the chance to experience this rich and unique celebration. We also enjoyed funfilled horse-riding trips - thankfully managing to dodge some of the rain!

Following this, our events calendar featured the much-loved Traditional English Christmas Card Writing session. This special occasion allowed international pupils to write heartfelt cards to friends and family across the globe. Pupils indulged in hot chocolate, sweet treats, and a speed gingerbread man decorating competition. Several staff members joined us - not only for the wonderful cake but also to share in this cherished British tradition.

In 2025, after returning from the holidays, we welcomed the Lunar New Year with a vibrant celebration at Downside. Pupils whose countries observe this festival invited friends to join in the festivities. The event was more popular than ever, with pupils enjoying Chinese takeaway and wrapping up the evening with traditional board games.

The International Society warmly invites new members to join us in planning future events and sharing in the joy of cultural exchange and excursions.

Rebecca Shaw, Head of EAL and Teacher of English

EAL DEPARTMENT

“EAL provides a safe space where we can get the support we need to succeed.” Cósima Academic progress and success remain at the heart of our work in the EAL (English as an Additional Language) Department. Our new Head of EAL, Mrs. Shaw, has introduced a weekly

drop-in Writing Centre, where pupils can receive one-to-one support from friendly English and EAL teachers ahead of their written Prep. This support extends to all pupils, across all subjects, and has already proven to be hugely beneficial.

We are proud to celebrate the exam success of several pupils this year in EAL. Congratulations to our sixth form students, Haidee, Sacha and Genie who recently took their IELTS exams - a vital step toward gaining admission to universities in the UK. In addition, in Fourth Form, Javier, Amparo and Alexis successfully passed their Cambridge First for Schools examination, an internationally recognised English qualification that demonstrates strong language skills and academic achievement. This is a testament to their hard work and dedication.

Equally impressive is how quickly our students have adapted, developing their English skills and becoming active, confident members of the school community. Such determination and ability to thrive in a new environment are truly commendable. The diversity of languages, cultures, and perspectives at Downside continues to enrich our inclusive community.

Rebecca Shaw, Head of EAL and Teacher of English

REVIEWS REPORTS &

ART

CCF

Dof

DRAMA

MUSIC

LIBRARY

SPORT

TARThe Art department has had another busy year. In September we welcomed our new Artist-in-Residence, Eloise Grandfield. She is a printmaker and ceramicist and we have had the opportunity to see the work she has produced this year in her exhibition in the Theatre Foyer. The exhibition opening was well supported by friends, family and School staff. Eloise has made a huge contribution to the department this year. She worked tirelessly with the GCSE and A Level students helping them to develop ideas and print techniques for their projects. We are very grateful for the work she did to help 5 A Level students produce professional portfolios for their creative university applications. She brought inspiration to every group she has worked with and especially leading the Lent term Third Form project, with the theme of hedgerows linked to her own work. We

wish her all the best for the future and hope she has a lovely time in Canada in the next year.

In October, we took art scholars and Sixth Form artists to the Watts Gallery and artist village in Surrey. During our visit we were able to learn

about the artist G F Watts and his wife Mary Watts who had their home, gallery, community pottery and an amazing Italianate chapel as part of the artists village. We had a tour of their home Limnerslease which is very much in the Art and Crafts movement style and also contained Watts studio. In the gallery, we looked at selected paintings by Watts and discussed this with the gallery guide. The students did drawings in the temporary exhibition on Japanese print and in the Watts Chapel. The chapel was the highlight of the trip, with an amazing interior decorated by Mary Watts and the women in the village. The decoration consists of angels and patterns built up in relief, with gorgeous jewel-like colours. It is an amazing place, and we would highly recommend a visit to everyone.

The department has continued to work on special projects to support the spiritual life of the school and this year Genevieve Davison created a beautiful illustration for the carol service programme. Sofia Catalan de Ocon decorated the Paschal Candle with branches of cherry blossom, which remined us that spring was with us.

We had an Art and Design experience day welcoming St Julian School Wellow, in the Michaelmas term. Our project theme was mythical

beasts, and the children had the opportunity to look at the wood carvings of creatures in the Abbey and then created designs to make a relief image in clay, resulting in some lovely tile designs. A fun day was had by all.

The department also contributed to the activity weeks for Second and Third Form. War and Peace was the theme for Third Form and through art and artists from the First and Second World Wars we explored depictions of war and created collages in response. The Second Form project looked at the theme of Symmetry and Miss Davison introduced Islamic pattern design which they translated into a tile designs.

The new Sixth Form Centre, art was hung with an array of artwork from the previous year’s GCSE and A Level work which looks excellent. Miss Grandfield also created three large abstract paintings for the centre, combing vivid blue and orange. They look very striking and are an amazing addition to the Sixth Form Centre.

Next year we are planning a return to our Cornwall trip linked to work of our new Artist-inResidence.

Erica Williams, Head of Art

CCF

The officers:

Lieutenant Colonel N. Barrett

CPO D. Pollard (RN)

Captain O. Simper

Lieutenant E. Spurling

Lieutenant S Barrett (RN)

Lieutenant C. Warren (RN)

Sub-Lieutenant F. Seggie (RN)

Sub-Lieutenant C. Murphy (RN)

CFAV W. Vaughan

CFAV I. Ramsden

This year we were yet again blessed with an excellent cohort of Upper Sixth Senior NCO’s, led by CUO Kara, who had just been awarded an Army Scholarship, in addition to becoming one of just six chosen from the county to be a Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet. At the ceremony, at the TA Centre in Taunton in September, Sub-Lieutenant Frankie Seggie was also awarded a Lord Lieutenant’s Award for Meritorious Service in recognition for all the hard work and dedication she puts in to

running the Sea Cadet unit in Glastonbury. I was delighted to be accompanied by Andrew Hobbs, who throughout his tenure as both Deputy Head, and Head, over a fourteen-year period, has been tremendously supportive of the CCF.

CCF sessions took place on Wednesday afternoons this year, shifting from a Monday.

Third Form cadets spent the first couple of terms covering elements of the Basic Army Syllabus, including dress and turnout, basic army drill, military skills, a swim test, and a number of campcraft skills, including map reading and navigation, that he majority of the year group certainly needed when they tackle their D of E Bronze Expedition later in the year. during the Lent term the platoon was split with cadets able to opt to remain in the Army Section or move to the Navy. This proved useful in terms of focusing on water-based activities during the Summer Term.

Fourth Form Army section cadets were introduced to the Cadet GP A2 rifle in addition to covering elements of the Advanced Army

syllabus, whilst Fifth Form Army section cadets spent the term completing the Advanced Army syllabus, before being reassigned to support both staff and NCO’s. Navy cadets undertook several command tasks, afloat activities, seamanship, and leadership training, following the Navy Proficiency Syllabus. Sadly, Yoxter Training area remains off limits, due to Civil Service cuts, so Field Days, the Third Form Evening Exercise, and Inspection Day were held in the School grounds.

Our Remembrance Service this year focused on the 25 Old Gregorian’s who lost their lives on land in 1944. Wreaths were laid by the President of the Old Gregorian Society, The Head, our Heads of School Edward, and Zara, and our CUO Kara, who also read out the names of the war dead as selected cadets planted personalised Gregorian crosses either side of the War Memorial. Our CCF Band once again led the Remembrance Parade through the streets of Bath, as well as playing outside the Guildhall, both prior to, and after the Parade. Ten Tors training started in earnest in November with 12 Fourth Form cadets bravely putting up with wet and misty conditions over a weekend on Dartmoor. This was followed up with a more challenging weekend in the Lent term, again on Dartmoor before finally spending the first 3 days of the Easter break. Sadly, several cadets were unable to cope with the demands of the training, and did not reach the standard required for the staff to confidently feel that they could successfully complete the

challenge. The staff therefore had to take the very difficult decision to withdraw the Team from this year’s Ten Tors Competition, the first time in my 34 years in the CCF that we have not competed.

This year’s Inspection Day took place, as is tradition, in early May, and we were delighted to be joined by reviewing officer Commadore Richard Purdy, deputising for Rear Admiral Jude Terry, who sadly was unable to attend. Yet again this year we were blessed with warm sunny weather with naval and army junior and senior cadets spending the day engaged in several challenging stands and fun activities, in the School grounds, including Blo-karting, archery, a Gun Run, leadership tasks, as well as ambush drills in the shrubbery, culminating in a formal Quarter Guard Parade, with our most senior Upper Sixth NCOs forming the Quarter Guard and Colour Party, ably led by CUO Kara and RSM Edward, to the accompaniment of our CCF Band. The day was rounded off in style with a CCF barbeque theatre Quad. Sailing on

Cheddar reservoir resumed during the Summer term, and CCF staff also took the opportunity during “3 days in June” to finally repaint our Gate Guardian, a Ferret Scout Car, who spent it’s working life in Germany, in an appropriate BAOR colour scheme. We have also recently had donated a propeller from one of the landing craft that served in the Falkland’s War, which will be suitably mounted opposite our Ferret.

25 Third Form pupils successfully completed their D of E Bronze Expedition in midJune, across Mendips, testing their resilience, communication, teamwork, and navigational skills to the maximum over the two days. Thanks must go to the staff that attended, and to SubLieutenant Frankie Seggie for both planning the expedition phase, and for overseeing the Bronze Award this year. 9 Fourth Form pupils tackled both a 2-day practice and the actual

3-day assessed Silver D of E expedition at the end of the Summer term, based in the Vale of Pewsey. All nine cadets successfully completed the expedition phase of the Award. D of E Gold Expedition training and assessment took place on Dartmoor

I would like to conclude my report, as per usual, by particularly thanking our Upper Sixth NCO’s, Kara, Edward, Ella, Max, Finn and Alex, who have proved to be a real asset to the staff, in planning and delivering training throughout the year, and to my SSI CPO David Pollard, in addition to the Officers of the Corps, who continue to support our cadets so unreservedly.

Lt Col Neill Barrett

DUKE OF EDINBURGH AWARD

DOWNSIDE SCHOOL CELEBRATES RECORD BREAKING DOFE SUCCESS: BUILDING CHARACTER BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

Downside School is bursting with pride as we reflect on an exceptional year for our Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) programme. The dedication of our pupils, supported by committed staff and volunteers, has yielded outstanding results, showcasing the incredible resilience, talent, and community spirit that thrives within our Benedictine boarding community. This past year has seen remarkable participation and achievement across all levels of the Award:

Bronze Award: An impressive 48 pupils successfully completed their Bronze Award journey.

Silver Award: 24 pupils demonstrated significant commitment and skill to achieve their Silver Award. Gold Award: The pinnacle of the programme was reached by 5 dedicated pupils who earned their prestigious Gold Award.

These numbers represent not just certificates, but countless hours of perseverance in developing skills, pushing physical limits on expeditions, serving the local community, and embracing new experiences. Each participant has grown immeasurably through the challenge.

A Gleaming Highlight: Gold at the Palace

Adding a truly special lustre to our celebrations, we were thrilled to learn that five former Downside pupils recently travelled to Buckingham Palace to receive their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s

Awards directly from His Royal Highness, The Duke of Edinburgh in a ceremony brimming with celebration. This magnificent achievement by our alumni serves as a powerful inspiration to our current pupils, demonstrating the lasting value and recognition associated with the Gold Award. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to them all!

The Transformative Power of DofE at Downside

The DofE programme is far more than an extracurricular activity; it’s a transformative journey integral to the holistic education Downside provides. Rooted in our Benedictine values of community, stewardship, and striving for excellence, DofE perfectly complements our mission to develop well-rounded, confident, and compassionate young people.

Pupils embarking on their DofE adventure at Downside gain invaluable benefits:

1. Resilience & Confidence: Tackling demanding expeditions and learning new skills builds mental fortitude and self-belief.

2. Leadership & Teamwork: Planning expeditions and volunteering projects hones leadership abilities and the crucial skill of working effectively within a team.

3. Discovering Passions & Skills: The Skills and Physical Recreation sections encourage pupils to explore new interests or deepen existing talents, often uncovering lifelong passions.

4. Service & Community Spirit: Volunteering fosters empathy, social responsibility, and a deep connection to the wider community, reflecting our core values.

5. Independence & Problem-Solving: Navigating the challenges of the Award, especially the expedition, cultivates resourcefulness and critical thinking.

6. A Tangible Achievement: The Award is a globally recognised mark of dedication and personal development, highly valued by universities and employers.

“Witnessing our pupils push their boundaries, support each other, and discover their capabilities through DofE is incredibly rewarding,” said Mrs Seggie, Downside’s DofE Bronze Group Leader. “This year’s results, and seeing our alumni honoured at Buckingham Palace, are a testament to their hard work and the supportive environment we foster here. The skills and confidence they gain are truly life-changing.”

Inspired to Join the Adventure?

With such a successful year behind us, the momentum for DofE at Downside has never been stronger. We warmly invite all pupils to consider embarking on their own DofE journey next year. Whether starting at Bronze or aiming higher, the programme offers a unique opportunity for personal growth, adventure, and making a positive impact, all within the supportive framework of our school community.

Congratulations once again to all our award achievers this year, and especially to our Gold alumni celebrated at the Palace! Your dedication embodies the Downside spirit. We look forward to welcoming many more pupils to experience the challenge and reward of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award programme in the coming year.

David Pollard DofE Manager

Witnessing our pupils push their boundaries, support each other, and discover their capabilities through DofE is incredibly rewarding.

LIBRARY

This year we achieved two long-held objectives in the library. First, new carpeting was laid throughout the Petre Library and power boxes installed between the long, wooden tables at which so many Sixth Formers have revised over the years. Secondly, the monitor outside the Ref now displays our Book of the Week recommendations so that hungry minds can be fed before hungry mouths every day. Booker-prize shortlisted James by Perceval Edwards and Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell featured as well as books written by Tia Fisher, Catherine Bruton and Ash Bond who

the First, Second and Fourth Form. However, I suspect the library-led event that will linger longest in the mind is the Gingerbread (Inter) House Decorating Competition, which formed part of our JOLABOKAFLOD campaign before Christmas. Jolabokaflod is an Icelandic tradition that began during rationing in the Second World War when paper was one of the few items not restricted. As a result, Icelanders gave one another books for Christmas. Long may this tradition continue in Iceland, at Downside and everywhere.

Janet Craig,

Downside Book Champion 2025 Florence Hathaway spoke about Little Women

OLIVER!

Downside’s production of Oliver! was an incredible showcase of singing, dancing, and camaraderie. The audiences enjoyed wonderful performances from the very talented pupil cast, that also included 23 pupils from St Vigor & St John Primary School, who took the parts of the workhouse children and Fagin’s gang.

Director Tristan Carter said, “Oliver! is a show packed with big performance numbers, tons of humour, some truly whacky moments along with some rather special costumes! The cast excelled themselves, working tirelessly to learn lines, songs, harmonies, and dance routines often giving up other activities to focus on rehearsals. The support they showed each other was fabulous. Each and every cast member gave their all to make the show a success and I couldn’t be more proud of what we have created together.”

Musical Director Karen Randall added, “It was

with great joy that I took on the role of Musical Director for my first show at Downside School. Watching each pupil pour their heart and soul into every rehearsal was an incredibly rewarding experience, and I couldn’t have been prouder of the enthusiasm and dedication they all brought to the production. The energy and spirit within the ensemble made it a pleasure to collaborate and create music together. From their hard work on stage to the camaraderie off stage, they have embodied everything that makes theatre such a special art form and Downside such a special place.”

We would also like to thank the Downside Association for their generous time in helping front of house on the three nights of the show.

Karen Randall, Director of Performing Arts and Head of Academic Music

LAMDA RESULTS

We congratulate all those who have passed LAMDA exams this year:

MUSIC

This year has been a vibrant and inspiring one for the Music Department, marked by outstanding performances, community spirit, and the continued growth of our pupils’ musical talents. From competitive House events to solemn public ceremonies and festive celebrations, music has remained at the heart of Downside life.

House Singing Competition: A Celebration of Spirit and Sound

The Fleischner Theatre came alive with energy and anticipation as the entire school gathered for the much-loved House Singing Competition. Each House—Roberts, Barlow, Smythe, Isabella, and Caverel—delivered performances that were not only musically impressive but also rich in creativity and camaraderie.

The competition is about more than just singing—it’s a celebration of collaboration, hard work, and unity. Weeks of rehearsals culminated in performances that ranged from lively pop numbers to moving hymns and soulful part songs.

Our adjudicator, Andrew Trewhella, had the challenging task of selecting winners in several categories:

- Best Hymn Singing: Barlow

- Best Part Song: Smythe

- Best Whole House Song: Isabella

- Best Conductor: Amelia (Isabella)

- Best Accompaniment: Adrian (Barlow)

- Best Arrangement: Caverel (for their multiinstrumental contributions)

- Best House: Jointly awarded to Smythe and Isabella

The evening was a true showcase of Downside’s musical talent and House spirit.

Scholars’ Dinner: Honouring Dedication and Talent

The Scholars’ Dinner provided a special moment to recognise the contributions of our Music and Choral Scholars. Mr McNamara expressed his gratitude for their dedication, which has helped music flourish at Downside.

We were delighted to welcome back OG Matt Walters (B18), who shared his journey from Music Scholar to university and into the world of social media music content. His inspiring talk resonated deeply with our current scholars.

Thanks to Mrs Maggs and the Catering Team, the Petre Cloister was transformed into a beautiful dining space, and the evening was a fitting celebration of a successful first term.

Remembrance:

A Solemn Tribute

On Sunday 10th November, the CCF Band and the Pipes and Drums led the Bath Remembrance Parade—a significant honour and a deeply moving experience. Their performance was marked by professionalism, reverence, and musical excellence, paying tribute to those who have served and sacrificed.

The pupils’ conduct and musicianship were widely praised by the community and local officials. Their participation was not only a musical achievement but also a powerful expression of Downside’s values and commitment to service.

St. Cecilia Concert: A Showcase of Musical Excellence

The annual St. Cecilia Concert was a highlight of the Michaelmas term, celebrating the breadth and depth of musical talent at Downside. The evening featured a diverse programme of ensembles and solo performances, each reflecting the dedication and artistry of our pupils.

Highlights included:

- Percussion Line: A dynamic opening with Fightman

- Concert Band: A powerful rendition of Stairway to Heaven and themes from Dvořák’s New World Symphony

- Pipes and Drums: A crowd-pleasing performance of Rebel Piper with lighting effects and snare drum choreography

- Chamber Choir: A moving performance of O salutaris hostia by Mr McNamara, featuring a haunting ocarina solo

- House Singing Part Songs: Smythe’s And So It Goes and Isabella’s Can’t Catch Me Now

- Jazz Band: Energetic performances of Noodlin’ and Bag’s Groove, with standout improvisations

- Soloists: Antoine and Albert (voice), Aleksander (cello), and Maria (piano) delivered poised and expressive performances

- String Ensemble: Elegant interpretations of Boyce’s Symphony No. 4 and Grieg’s Holberg Suite Prelude

The concert was a testament to the hard work of our pupils and staff, and we are grateful to all who attended and supported the event.

London Carol Service: A Joyful Tradition

On 9th December, the London Carol Service returned to the Church of Our Most Holy Redeemer in Chelsea, drawing a large and enthusiastic congregation of OGs, parents, pupils, and friends. The service was filled with festive music and community spirit, reaffirming its place as a cherished Downside tradition. The choir

delivered a stunning performance, with soloists from O Holy Night receiving particular praise.

Advent Carol Service: A Reflective Close to the Term

The Michaelmas term concluded with the Advent Carol Service in the Abbey Church, bringing together the entire school community, OGs, families, and friends. The service, structured as an Advent Liturgy of the Word, was beautifully complemented by music from the Schola Cantorum and Chamber Choirs under the direction of Mr McNamara.

The service offered a moment of reflection and spiritual preparation for the Christmas season, and the music provided a fitting and moving conclusion to a term rich in musical achievement.

Fowke Recital

In February we hosted a memorable evening celebrating the musical achievements of our most talented Sixth Form musicians. The event showcased a series of captivating performances that highlighted the dedication, talent, and hard work of our pupils.

We were honoured to welcome back Philip Fowke (B67), as our adjudicator for the evening. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to him

for generously giving his time to support and encourage our young musicians.

The evening began with a beautiful vocal performance by Jana. Jana’s journey in music began with choir singing at the age of seven, though she only started formal singing lessons at the start of her Upper Sixth year. Her remarkable progress in such a short time was evident in her stunning programme which included songs by Mendelssohn and Elgar.

Next, we enjoyed an exceptional oboe performance from Ella. Ella started learning the oboe in the Third Form and achieved her Grade 8 last year. Her performance of sonatas for oboe by Saint-Saens and Bach were outstanding.

James, who humorously claims to have been singing since birth, has actually been taking formal singing lessons since the age of nine. His talent shone through in his performance of songs which included Arm, Arm Ye Brave from Judas Maccabeus and The Vagabond from Songs of Travel.

After a short interval, the audience was treated to a remarkable performance by Euan. Euan started singing at the age of six and has been offered a position to sing at Truro Cathedral in his gap year. His passion for music was evident in his performance of Non Piu Andrai from the Marriage of Figaro and If I Sing from Closer Than Ever.

The evening concluded with a powerful cello performance by Aleksander. Aleksander, who has been playing the cello since the age of six, impressed the audience with his renditions of the Scherzo from Beethoven’s Cello Sonata in A Major and Invocation by Holst.

Congratulations were made to Aleksander on being awarded the Fowke Recital Prize and we gave special thanks to Mr McNamara and Ms Robey for their invaluable accompaniment, and to Philip Fowke for his insightful adjudication. It was an evening that truly celebrated the rich musical talent within our school community.

Choral Concert

The Abbey Church was filled with the wonderful sound of our Schola Cantorum and Mixed Chamber Choir accompanied by an ensemble of organ, brass and percussion for the Choral Concert in March. Under the direction of Mr McNamara, for the last time, the audience were treated to Purcell’s Music for the Funeral of Queen Mary and Bruckner’s Motets. The choir sang with passion and energy and the wonderful performance of the final piece of the evening Locus iste was a fitting end to the concert and Mr McNamara’s time at Downside. Mr McNamara said “One of the first pieces I was let loose with as an L-plated sixth-form choral conductor was Bruckner’s Locus iste, so it is with a happy sense of ‘completing the circle’ that I sign off from Downside with it this evening.”

May Madrigals

As is the tradition here at Downside and indeed across the country on the first of May, members of chamber choir came together to sing in the morning with some May Madrigals.

Having climbed to the top of Robert’s Tower we were greeted with beautiful sunshine, blue skies and of course the views towards the Abbey. Amid delightful spring birdsong, the glorious sound of well-known springtime favourites echoed down to the spectators in the quad below. There are few better ways to start off the month of May than with Madrigals in the early morning spring sunshine followed by the traditional post-Madrigals bacon sandwich!

Cloister Concerts

We are delighted to have continued our successful fortnightly Cloister Concert series this year. These concerts provide a wonderful opportunity for pupils to hone their performance skills in a relaxed

environment, whether they are preparing for an exam or a larger recital. We encourage all pupils to sign up, regardless of how long they have been learning. It’s always a joy to hear a Grade 1 piece alongside a Grade 8 piece in the same concert! The atmosphere is friendly and supportive and a wonderful way to spend your lunchtime!

Looking Ahead

As we reflect on a year filled with memorable performances and meaningful moments, we are immensely proud of our pupils’ achievements and grateful for the support of our staff, families, and wider community. Music at Downside continues to thrive, not only as an academic and co-curricular pursuit but as a vital part of our shared life and identity.

We look forward to the coming year with excitement and anticipation, confident that the spirit of music will continue to inspire and unite us.

Karen Randall, Director of Performing Arts and Head of Academic Music

MUSIC EXAM RESULTS

SPORT

Another tremendous year of sport at Downside. Our pupils played in 305 competitive inter-school sports fixtures & tournaments over the academic year. Downside fielded representative teams in 14 different sports and selected 64 different age group teams to play in these fixtures. Whilst all similar schools would aspire to replicate this level of competitive sports provision, it is perhaps our unique sporting culture which supports the development of all pupils throughout their time at Downside. Whatever their starting point or prior experience, our culture of development emphasis on values means that pupils remain engaged and sustain an involvement in competitive sport.

Within our First Form, Second Form, Third Form and Fourth Form age groups, an astonishingly high level was achieved this year, with

100% of pupils playing representative school sport. In the Fifth Form this was 88%, Lower Sixth Form 77% and in the Upper Sixth it was an incredible 84% as well – showing that despite the additional challenges of public exams, University applications and various leadership roles in school these pupils still have the motivation to play sport together and draw great pleasure from doing so.

Thank you to all the pupils and their coaching staff for giving so much over the course of the year. It’s been a privilege to see all the enjoyment, success, resilience and performance levels you have reached this last academic year, and I hope that the individual sports reports will give an insight into all that you achieved.

Richard Jones, Director of Sport

SPORT AWARDS – CAPS & COLOURS

CAPS – an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the Sport as a player but who has also constantly, without exception, demonstrated themselves to be an excellent role model to their peers by living the core Downside sport values of Discipline, Honesty and Stewardship throughout the season.

COLOURS – not quite done enough to be awarded a CAP, these are individuals who have still made a significant contribution to the sport as a player and/or an individual who has demonstrated significant commitment and dedication to the sport throughout the season. MIXED

U13 F. Hathaway B. James

N. Abudu B. Che

U13 G.Puras MendezCastrillon

B. Rees-Davies

D. Jones

U14 R. Awoleke

S. Torday

D. Anulal

P. Ordovas Cimarra

S. Cox Cruzat

O. Boswell

U15

2nd

Jenkins M. Gairdner

S. Tukdel

D. Thomas

S. Kellock Ryle

A. Storey

A. Errington

I. Hathaway

D. Toledo Delgado

F. Ingram

Dolman H. Makaza

U14 M. Whithear

O. Tagent

O. Bellord

O. Garrett

M. Camilleri

U15 O. Rooney R. Ezeh

M. Bellord

B. Bellord

J. Yakubu

A. Mills

A. Alvarez De T. Iglesias

C. Che

E. Wu

A. Mills

S. Onyejindu-Okonji

K. Ryan

A. Sordo Aglot

D. Cheung

G. Bernal Lagares

A. Mes

A. Wong

E. Howlett

J. Rowell

G. Buhagiar

J. McGarry

L. Bryan

B. Hadley Arthur

J. Ladipo

D. Flynn

U18 C. Chan

A. Cheung

E. Chow

R. Chiu

A. Henson

P. Lau

D. Chan

MICHAELMAS TERM 2024

GIRLS’ HOCKEY

BOYS’ RUGBY

U13 (1F & 2F)

F. Hathaway N. Abudu B. Che B. James U13 (1F & 2F) H. Beard B. Rees-Davies

D. Tazoh

J. Richardson

D. Edwards

B. Bellord

M. Bellord

G. Puras MendezCastrillon

F. Bradley U14 (3F)

C. Oriol Munoz-Rojas R. Awoleke

Ordovas Cimarra

Tagent

Garrett

A. Mills

C. Che

O. Bellord

J. Thomas U15 (4F)

M. Betancourt Pulido

D. Thomas O. Rickards

Kellock Ryle S. Onyejindu-Okonji

Melotte L. Norris F. Taylor

Obinna-Onunkwo

Hayhurst

Bayntun-Coward

J. Toller

K. Ryan

M. Ogwuoke

A. Wassmund

A. Mendoza Munoz

C. Chan

J. Yakubu Samaila

L. D’Estampes Vallancey

C. Colbourne

F. Baker

G. Marinus

R. Tagent

F. Mathews

H.Garrett

A. Vermeersch

L. Bryan

H. Bonneau

A. Von Bodman

P. Katouzi

O. Awomolo

D. Flynn

L. Berryer

F. Campbell Meehan

D. Danhawoor

J. Gathungu

A. Kwan

SUMMER TERM 2025

GIRLS’ TENNIS

U13

U14

U15

U18

BOYS’ CRICKET

Caps Colours Caps Colours

F. Hathaway

M. Arbones-Davila

Goenechea

R. Awoleke

M. Betancourt Pulido

A. Errington

S. Betancourt Pulido

E. Errington

A. Mendizabal de Barros

U13 B. Rees-Davies M. Bellord

B. Bellord

F. Bradley

U14 O. Bellord

O. Tagent

U15 J. Toller

U18 C. Colbourne J. Uhrmacher O. Greensmith

F. Baker

BOYS’ TENNIS

Caps Colours

U18 D. Flynn A. De Giacomoni

H. Bonneau

L. Camilleri

MIXED ATHLETICS

Caps Colours

Various J. Ladipo

THE TEAMS

NETBALL

OP – Oppositions’ player of the year PP – Players’ player of the year

U13A

M Arbones-Davila Goenechea, C Makaza (PP), M Yau, O Abudu (OP), B Che (Captain), S Foudjuo, F Hathaway (Vice-captain), B James, Y Lo

U14A

D Anulal, M Awoleke (Captain & OP), J Benavides Vizcaino, A Del Corral Barrós, B Lu, V Ordovas Cimarra (Vice-captain), C Oriol Munoz-Rojas (PP), S Torday

U14B

S Cox Cruzat (PP), O Boswell (Vicecaptain), L Krauss Mac-Auliffe (OP), H Moger, A Nweke, K Spurling, L Wyganowska, E Zambrano Delgado, F Neave (Captain)

U15A

M Betancourt Pulido (PP), A Errington, S Kellock Ryle, M Onyejindu-Okonji, ,O Rickards (Captain & OP), A Storey, D Thomas, S Tukdel, S Von Der Schulenburg

U15B

A Alonso Arredondo, F Casas Vivanco (Vice-captain), S Catalán De Ocón (OP), M Crews-Montes (PP), L Godfrey, V Kemp, T Mendizabal de Barros (Captain), N ObinnaOnunkwo, F Poku, L Renz Segura, L Wang

1ST VII

S Betancourt Pulido, B Healy, G Lesault, O Pike, E Gairdner, M Jenkins, A Obinna-Onunkwo (OP), C Melotte (Co-Captain), L Norris (Co-Captain), F Taylor (Vice-captain & PP)

2ND VII

F Dolman, F Ingram, H Makaza (PP), O Rees-Davies, M Fuenzalida Schenke, R Rooney, K Campbell Meehan (Vice-captain), E Stanislas (Captain & OP)

3RD VII

L Awoleke, H Bennett, A Conway, E Errington, A Mendizabal de Barros (OP), E Norrington, C Wiehe (Vicecaptain & PP), J Yakubu Samaila (Captain)

4TH VII

E Butcher, C De Lacombe (OP & PP), S Ezeh, I Hathaway, A Lozano, A Moorhouse, L O’Kane (Vice-captain), E Stanford, E Varela Sanchez (Captain), J Hall, J Hammerer, Z Haung, R Rancso, P Rothwell, D Toledo Delgado

TABLE TENNIS

D. Chan (Captain), E. Chow (ViceCaptain), P. Lau, E. Doo, M. Su, A. Carl, D. Chan, M. Che, E. Kwong, R. Chiu, A. Tse, A. Cheung, E. Cheung

BADMINTON

U18A

M. Su, C. Chan, E. Chow, A. Henson, R. Chiu, D. Chan, P. Lau, E. Doo

CRICKET

U13 SOFT BALL

M M. Yau, E. Bernal Lagares, F. Hathaway, E. Darmouni, N. Abudu, D. Tazoh, Y L. Lo, B. James, A. Garrett, L. Lagler, C. Makaza, S. Foudjuo, B. Che, R. Mills. A. Alvarez De Toledo Iglesias

U13 HARD BALL

H. Beard, B. Bellord, M. Bellord, F. Bradley, A. Garrett, D. Jones, A. Mills, I. Molina Alvarez, G. Puras Mendez-Castrillon, B. Rees-Davies, J. Richardson, J. Yakubu Samaila U14

H. Beard, B. Bellord, M. Bellord, F. Bradley, D. Jones, A. Mills, I. Molina Alvarez, B. Rees-Davies, F. Awomolo, M. Che, O. Hayhurst, A. Mills, O. Tagent, O. Bellord, D. Edwards, M. Whithear

U15

J. Toller, E. Owusu, O. BayntunCoward, R. Cao, THB. Tong, O. Bellord, D. Edwards, O. Tagent, M. Whithear, O. Hayhurst, K. Ryan, S. Onyejindu-Okonji, M. Che, A. Mills

1ST XI

O. Awomolo, F. Baker, C. Colbourne, E. Gairdner, O. Greensmith, C. Hayhurst, F. Mathew, J. McGarry, I.Quaife, I.Santarossa, J. Uhrmacher, O. Rooney

FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT SQUAD

H. Bonneau, A. Von Bodman, D. Danhawoor, H. Garrett, C. Pike, H. Hayhurst, L. Berryer, C. Hayhurst, J. Duve, P. Katouzi, F. CampbellMeehan, G. Marinus, C. Petersen, A. Korczagin, J. Alique-Ortiz, S. Kinsky

U18A

H. Bonneau, A. Von Bodman, D. Danhawoor, H. Garrett, D. Flynn, K. Simms, H. Hayhurst, L. Berryer, J. Rowell, J. Duve, P. Katouzi, F. Campbell-Meehan, O. Awomolo, J. Ladipo, L. Bryan, J. Hunter, A. Mes

U18B

F. Campbell-Meehan, M. Kaminski, F. Erfurt, J. Gathangu, A. Kwan, L. Camilleri, B. Hadley-Artur, C. Petersen, E. Millington, J. Scanlan, L. Berryer, J. Alique-Ortiz, D. Romo

De Vivar Valladares, S. Manso-Duffy, A. Korczagin, G. Marinus, C. Hayhurst, C. Pike

HOCKEY

1ST XI

A Moorhouse, H. Makaza, G. Lesault, M. Jenkins, E. Gairdner, O. Rees-Davies, O. Pike, F. Taylor, L. Norris (Capt), A. Storey, S. Betancourt Pulido, B. Healy, K. Campbell Meehan, M. Mendizabal de Barros, A. Obinna-Onunkwo, S. Betancourt Pulido, J. Hall, A. Errington, F. Dolman, O Rickards

2ND XI

J. Hall, I. Hathaway, E. Stanford, P. Rothwell, F. Ingram, A. Conway, H. Bennett, C. Wiehe, B. Lai, K. Campbell Meehan, E. Butcher, D. Toledo Delgado, A. Errington, M. Fuenzalida Schenke, A. Lozano, C. De Lacombe, L. O’Kane, R. Rooney, C. Melotte, K. Campbell Meehan, M. Mendizabal de Barros, A. Obinna-Onunkwo

U15

M. Betancourt Pulido, S. Catalán De Ocón, M. Crews-Montes, A. Errington, E. Izquierdo, S. Kellock Ryle, V. Kemp, T. Mendizabal De Barros, S. Onyejindu-Okonji, M. Randall, O. Rickards, A. Storey, D. Thomas, S. Tukdel, S. Von Der Schulenburg

U14

N. Abudu, D. Anulal, R. Awoleke, J. Benavides Vizcaino, O. Boswell, S. Cox Cruzat, A. Del Corral Barrós, L.Krauss Mac-Auliffe, A. Lafosse Marin, C. Lu, H. Moger, F. Neave, P. Ordovas Cimarra, C. Oriol Munoz-Rojas, K.Spurling, S.Torday, L. Wyganowska, E.Zambrano Delgado

U13/U12

N. Abudu, F. Hathaway, B. Che, S. Foudjuo, B. James, G. Lo, M. Yau, C. Makaza, O. Cases Domarco, M. Arbones-Davila Goeneche

RUGBY

1ST XV

L. Bryan, H. Jones, SH. Wong, J. McGarry, E. Howlett, B. Hadley Arthur, O. Greensmith, G. Buhagiar (Club-Captain), J. Uhrmacher, D. Flynn, A. Kwan, K. Simms (Captain), J. Rowell, J. Gathungu, J. Ladipo, R. Vaughan, L. Camilleri, C. Colbourne, R. Tagent, A. Mes (Vice-Captain), L. D’Estampes Vallancey

U15

N.Alvarez De Toledo Iglesias, O.Bayntun-Coward, G.Bernal Lagares, A.Berryer, TU.Cheung, KC.Choi, M.Darchis, R.Ezeh, A.Garcia Arroyo, S.OnyejinduOkonji, E.Owusu, O.Rooney (Captain), A.Sordo Aglot, B.Tong, F.Baker, M.Ugwuoke, J.Yakubu Samaila, K(aelen) Ryan, K(asper). Ryan

U14

F.Awomolo, M.Whithear, W.Lagrange, T.Martin Des Pallieres, D.Edwards, D.Jones, B.ReesDavies, G.Puras Mendez-Castrillon, M.Camilleri, O.Tagent, A.Mills, O.Bellord (Captain), M.Che, S.Wu, O.Garrett, P.Castellanos Salazar, O.Hayhurst

TOUCH UNION

T.Chan, M.Krylov, N.Lai, A.CrewsMontes, A.Chater, YT.Lai, C.LaiMicallef, L.Patch, J.Toller, C.Wang, K.Zhansagimov

TENNIS

U18 GIRLS 1ST

S. Betancourt Pulido, F. Dolman, O. Pike, O. Rees-Davies, J. Schorling, A. Alonso Arredondo

U18 BOYS 1ST

D. Flynn, H. Bonneau, A. De Giacomoni, G. Buhagiar, J. Rowell

U18 2ND

E. Errington, R. Rooney, A. Mendizabal de Barros, J. Hammerer, R. Rancso

U15 1ST

M. Betancourt Pulido, A. Errington, C. Oriol Munoz-Rojas, E. Zambrano Delgado, R. Awoleke, D. Thomas

U15 2ND

Y. Lu, S. Onyejindu-Okonji, A. Del Corral Barros, S. Kellock-Ryle

U14 1ST

P. Ordovas Cimarra, F. Neave, D. Anulal, O. Boswell, S. Catalan De Ocon, L. Wyganowska

U13 1ST

M. Arbones-Davila Goenechea, B. Che, B. James, N. Abudu, S. Foudjuo, F. Hathaway, Y. L. Lo, K. Frankcom, C. Makaza, M. M. Yau

BASKETBALL

A. Kwan, A. Tse, K. Choi, C. Colbourne, O. Greensmith, A. Mes, E. Wu, F. O’Kane, J. Yakubu, M. Kaminski, J. Cao

All sports fixtures and results are published at www.downsidesport.co.uk if you would like to follow our teams.

CRICKET

The 2025 cricket season was a hugely encouraging one for the 1st XI, marked by strong performances, impressive individual achievements, and the emergence of exciting young talent. Despite fielding one of the youngest sides in recent memory, the team remained competitive throughout the season and secured several notable victories. Leading from the front was C. Colbourne (Fifth Form) who captained the side with maturity and tactical awareness. His field settings were well thought out and adaptive, along with timely bowling changes that often gave Downside the edge in closely fought contests. His contributions with the bat were equally impressive, highlighted by two great innings of a composed 50* against Leweston and a commanding 102* versus Monkton Combe.

Another student M. Gairdner (Lower Sixth) showed great consistency with her bowling which

proved vital at key times throughout the season. She claimed key wickets in several matches, none more dramatic than the final wicket in a tense victory over Queen’s College Taunton. We hope it encourages more female cricketers at Downside to aim for 1st XI honours.

The U13 boys cricket team enjoyed a remarkable 2025 season, finishing unbeaten with five wins from five matches. The team displayed consistent all-round performances, showing both skill and enjoyment for the game. Leading from the front was B. Rees-Davies (Second Form), who captained the side with confidence. His standout performance came against Sidcot, where he scored a superb 50, anchoring the innings and guiding the team to victory. His excellent form throughout the season was recognised with a well-deserved call-up to the 1st XI for their fixture against King’s Bruton. In that match, he bowled an over and contributed an unbeaten 12 runs with the bat. The U13 Mixed Soft Ball team played three

exciting fixtures that showcased great enthusiasm, teamwork, and improved skill levels across the group. It was fantastic to see players developing their confidence and game awareness throughout the season. The success of the soft ball format at Downside is a testament to the inclusive and positive environment it creates, encouraging both boys and girls to enjoy and engage with cricket at an early stage. The team should be proud of their efforts this season, and we look forward to seeing many of these players progress into hard ball cricket in the coming years.

The season concluded with a thrilling fixture against the Downside Wanderers, which came down to the wire, ending with just a 6-run margin. In that match, O. Rooney delivered bowling figures of the season with 8 overs, 4 wickets for just 9 runs an exceptional performance that deserves special mention. There is much to celebrate from this year’s campaign: strong team spirit, development of young leaders, and significant individual progress. With so many positives to build on, anticipation is already growing for what the 2026 season will bring; and we are already looking forward to a couple of September fixtures, once again against Wells Cathedral, further lengthening the 2025 summer by a few weeks!

Alex Taylor Cricket Development Lead Coach

GIRLS’ HOCKEY

The girls’ hockey season kicked off with an exciting and fun pre-season, where the senior players put in a lot of hard work to prepare for the upcoming challenges. The pre-season was filled with skill development, team-building activities, and intense practices to ensure they were ready to start the season with confidence. Their commitment and dedication set a positive tone for the season ahead. With many personnel changes from last season, the focus on teamwork and personal improvement helped strengthen the bond among the players and laid the groundwork for the coming season.

The senior girls faced a challenging start to the season, with tough games against Craighouse School (on tour from Santiago in Chile), Prior Park College, and Monkton Combe. Despite the evident quality of the opposition in these opening weeks, the team demonstrated incredible resilience throughout these matches, showcasing their ability to bounce back and improve. Technically and tactically, they made significant progress, honing their skills and refining their hockey knowledge with each game. Their hard work paid off with a fantastic win against Kings College, Taunton, a testament to their perseverance and growing team cohesion.

Throughout the season, the girls displayed immense strength, determination, and togetherness, proving that their efforts were truly worthwhile. As we came to the end of the season, they could feel proud of the strides they had made, both individually and as a team, reflecting the true spirit of the game and the growth they had achieved. The 2nd team’s season mirrored that of the 1st team in many ways, with the players putting in tremendous effort across all their games. Their hard work and dedication were evident, and the bond they developed as a team was crucial to their successes. One of the outstanding moments came with a performance against Prior Park College, where their unity and

determination were on full display. It was truly inspiring to see how much the girls grew as a group over the course of the season. From early challenges to later triumphs, their progression was clear, both in their individual skills and their collective teamwork. They should be extremely proud of how far they’ve come, as their development reflects their commitment and spirit throughout the season.

The Under 15s and Under 14s had a strong and exciting season, showcasing their growing skills and teamwork throughout. The Under 15s were particularly impressive, playing some great hockey and demonstrating resilience in key matches. A standout moment was their hardfought draw against Wells, a testament to their determination, and they were unlucky not to

secure a win against Leweston School. Meanwhile, the Under 14s had their own moments to shine, delivering solid performances against Prior Park College and Stonar. Both teams displayed excellent character throughout the term, pushing through challenges and continuing to develop both individually and as cohesive units. The growth and progress seen by both the Under 15s and Under 14s is something to be proud of, as they laid a strong foundation for the future with their commitment and hard work.

The Under 13s had a season filled with determination and hard work, and their efforts truly paid off with impressive results against Sherborne Girls and Monkton Combe. Throughout the season, the commitment and effort from every player was outstanding, with everyone contributing to the team’s overall growth and success. Their persistence and teamwork were key to achieving well-earned victories. The progress made by the Under 13s set a strong foundation for the next hockey term, and the experience gained over the season will no doubt serve them well as they continue to develop. They should be proud of their achievements, as they’ve built the momentum needed for future success and shown just how far dedication and teamwork can take them.

In conclusion, this hockey season has been full of effort, endeavor, and growth for the girls. Their dedication, hard work, and team spirit have not only led to impressive performances on the pitch but have also fostered growth and camaraderie off the field. The coaching staff are incredibly proud of all the girls achieved, and the progress they’ve made as individuals and as a team. With the foundation laid this year, we look forward to even greater accomplishments in the 2025 season. Here’s to continuing the journey, setting new goals, and striving for excellence both on and off the pitch!

Adam Broomfield, Hockey Development Lead Coach

BOYS’ HOCKEY

The boys’ hockey term kicked off with a dynamic and productive pre-season, during which both the junior and senior teams engaged in rigorous training sessions. This period provided an invaluable opportunity for players to refine their skills and build strong team chemistry, laying a solid foundation for the competitive matches ahead.

The senior boys’ team particularly stood out in a thrilling match against Mendip, a wellrespected local club. Their exceptional teamwork and dedication were on full display, reflecting the effort and commitment invested during pre-season training.

As the season progressed, the groundwork established early on contributed to a series of exhilarating and competitive fixtures. The Lent term saw strong performances from all age groups in matches against Wells, Beechen Cliff, and Prior Park. A highlight of the season was the 1st team’s commanding 3-1 victory over Prior Park, a testament to their skill, cohesion, and relentless drive. The high standards set by all teams continued as they took on formidable opponents such as Westonbirt, Leweston, and Collegiate, consistently demonstrating their competitiveness and resilience.

The U13A/B teams enjoyed an outstanding term, showcasing impressive hockey skills and

proving that the future of Downside Hockey is bright. Meanwhile, the U14s exhibited great resilience throughout their fixtures and cup matches, battling hard against strong opposition.

The U15s gained strength as the term progressed, delivering determined and tenacious performances. Similarly, the 2nd team worked tirelessly on and off the pitch, producing some electrifying displays of hockey.

The 1st team, in particular, was exceptional throughout much of the season. Their unwavering dedication and commitment both on and off the field reinforced their reputation as a formidable force.

A particular highlight of the term was the Hockey Mixed 7s team’s remarkable success at the Collegiate Hockey 7s Tournament, where they emerged as winners of the Bowl competition. Additionally, the U14 Boys’ team demonstrated their talent and determination, finishing as runnersup in the Avon County Plate competition.

Overall, it has been a fantastic term for boys’ hockey, with every player playing a vital role in the team’s success. The dedication, hard work, and commitment from all involved have made this a memorable season—one that the boys can truly be proud of.

NETBALL

The 2025 netball season was a fantastic celebration of school netball, with 100 girls representing the School across 90 matches. The season was filled with energy, commitment, and progress, culminating in a joyful end-ofseason dinner to recognise the players’ efforts and achievements. Exciting new additions to the calendar included the inaugural BGS 7s tournament and a pre-season triangular with Warminster and Embley, where the girls had the incredible

Adam Broomfield, Hockey Development Lead Coach

opportunity to be coached by former England captain Eboni Usoro-Brown. It has been a season of growth, success, and unforgettable experiences for all involved.

The 1st VII began their campaign with a competitive pre-season fixture against Howell’s School, Llandaff, showing early promise and resilience. In their first-ever pre-season triangular with Warminster and Embley, the team’s cohesion and confidence grew steadily, laying a strong foundation for the season. Notable victories followed against Wells Cathedral School, Warminster, Prior Park, and the Bristol Grammar School 2nd VII, highlighting the team’s skill and teamwork. Even in narrow defeats, the close margins reflected how well the team competed against strong opposition. A standout moment was their participation in the BGS 7s tournament. Adapting quickly to the new format, the players delivered a series of impressive performances, including solid wins and tightly contested matches.

Overall, the season was very encouraging and a testament to the team’s commitment, progress, and growing tactical awareness.

The 2nd VII enjoyed a successful season, winning 7 out of 12 matches and consistently demonstrated a high level of performance and drive. A particular highlight was a commanding 30–9 victory over Queen’s College, Taunton — a match that showcased the team’s cohesion, skill, and determination. Throughout the season, the girls approached every fixture with enthusiasm and a strong work ethic. Whether in training or competition, the team showed admirable perseverance and a willingness to improve, which translated into confident and composed performances across the board. It has been a pleasure to witness their progress and achievements, and they should be proud of the standard they have set for future 2nd VII teams.

The season was an exceptional one for the 3rd VII, proudly standing out as the most successful

squad of the year. With only three losses out of eleven matches, the girls consistently delivered strong performances and demonstrated a level of play that was both impressive and inspiring. What truly set this team apart was the sheer enjoyment they brought to every game and their love for the sport was evident in the energy and positivity they displayed on court. The girls approached every session with focus and determination, which paid dividends in their consistency and ability to perform under pressure. It has been a season to remember, and the players should be incredibly proud of what they have achieved together.

The 4th VII had a solid season, with strong performances and a great sense of team spirit. Highlights included well-earned wins against

Queen Elizabeth’s Hospital and Wells Cathedral School, where the team showed real skill and determination. Despite frequent changes in player combinations, the girls adapted brilliantly, demonstrating flexibility, teamwork, and support for one another. As a small school, we are especially proud to field a 4th senior team — something many schools are unable to do — which reflects the depth of talent and commitment within our netball community.

The Under 15A team experienced a season of steady growth and development, marked by resilience and a growing sense of unity. At the start of the year, the team faced challenges in finding their rhythm and establishing strong on-court connections. However, through consistent effort and persistence, the players gradually began to gel, showing clear improvement as the season progressed. The team’s hard work was rewarded with well-deserved victories against Queen’s College, Taunton and Warminster — matches that highlighted the team’s increased confidence and ability to perform under pressure. The foundations laid this year will undoubtedly serve them well as they continue their netball journey.

The Under 15B team has shown great spirit and perseverance throughout a challenging season. While the results may not always have reflected the level of effort and determination displayed, the players gave their all in every

match. As the season progressed, the team began to find their rhythm and grow in confidence which culminated in a well-earned and impressive win against Warminster School towards the end of the season — a fitting reward for their resilience and ‘never give up’ attitude. The players should be proud of their journey this year and there is every reason to be optimistic about what lies ahead for this promising group.

The Under 14A team has had a season defined by remarkable progress and growing confidence. With many players new to netball at the start of the year, the rate of improvement across the squad was truly exceptional. From learning the fundamentals to developing tactical awareness, the team embraced every challenge with enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. As the season unfolded, this dedication began to show in their performances. While early matches were tough, the margins of defeat steadily narrowed, reflecting the team’s increased cohesion and understanding of the game. A standout moment came with a hard-fought 14–14 draw against Wellington School — a result that perfectly captured the team’s development and resilience. The players should be proud of how far they’ve come in such a short time.

The Under 14B team showed great character throughout a challenging season. Despite tough opposition and results not always going their way, the players never gave up and gave their all in every match. The squad demonstrated determination and team spirit from start to finish. A highlight was the development of younger Second Form players, who stepped up confidently and made valuable contributions to squad performances. Although tested at times, the team responded with maturity, perseverance, and a solid attitude and their commitment to improving and supporting one another was a credit to them.

The Under 13A netball team enjoyed a fun and rewarding season, filled with energy, enthusiasm, and a strong sense of team spirit. For many players, this was their first experience

playing netball, and it was fantastic to see how quickly they embraced the game, showing great commitment and a willingness to learn. Throughout the season, the team faced a variety of new opponents, including exciting fixtures against Dauntsey’s and Collegiate. While victories were few, the progress made by the team was clear to see and each match brought valuable experience, with the improvement in skills and teamwork evident in every performance. Most importantly, the season was marked by enjoyment and camaraderie, with players supporting one another and celebrating their development together. It was a pleasure to watch the team grow, and we look forward to seeing what they can achieve in the future.

Lisa Packer, Netball Development Lead & Coach

RUGBY

Every week throughout September to December, over 90 Downside pupils participated in either rugby union or touch rugby. Sport plays an integral role in a pupil’s daily school experience, and for those who choose rugby, the game is deeply anchored in strong core values. This spirit of camaraderie and commitment has shaped the

actions and attitudes of every teacher, coach, parent, and pupil engaged in rugby this term. Both sport and rugby have the ability to enhance wellbeing, strengthen friendships, and nurture empathy among our students.

The rugby season included fixtures with Queen’s College Taunton, Wycliffe College, Wells Cathedral School, and Westonbirt. A special thank you should go to those involved in transporting us to fixtures in all corners of the Southwest, and to Mr Eade and his team of ground staff who, despite

the wet weather throughout the Autumn, kept the pitches in immaculate condition. Another thank you needs to be said to Mrs Kieck and her catering team, for all their efforts to provide teas for our teams and visitors.

For the U13s, U14s and U15s, their season started at the end of August with a morning of pre-season. Consisting of catch/pass skill zones and games based around how to best utilise space, the activities introduced the boys to their new lead coaches and welcomed those new to the school. Preparing them well for what turned out to be a tough, but exciting, season.

The U13s had a fantastic season, showcasing their adaptability by competing in various formats, from 5-a-side rugby league to full 13-a-side matches. One of the standout moments came in their fixture against Prior Park, where teamwork and skill combined for a stunning try. Starting from their own try-line, David Jones’ brilliant footwork set the move in motion before offloading to Jerah Yakubu. The ball then found Augustin Mills, who weaved through defenders before passing to Alberto Alvarez De Toledo Iglesias, who finished the play in the corner—just one of many moments that defined their season.

Arguably the most exciting age group in the program, the U14s played in tightly contested matches, with all but a couple games decided by narrow margins. New additions Michael Whithear

and Eric Wu brought strength and power, creating opportunities for playmakers Oscar Tagent and Arthur Mills. Their progress was evident in their game against Sidcot School, securing a 33-12 victory in an exciting and sportsmanlike match. From the outset, it was clear that the boys were working together as a cohesive unit, combining excellent teamwork with individual brilliance to control the game from start to finish.

The U15s demonstrated resilience and continuous improvement, often facing more experienced teams but rising to the challenge each week. Andres Sordo Aglot and Gonzalo Bernal Lagares, both new to rugby this year, impressed with their performances on the wings. The team was led with humility by Oscar Rooney and Stephen Onyejindu-Okonji, while Kasper Ryan stood out as the player of the season. Delivered an incredible performance against Wycliffe, showcasing their best rugby of the season. Everything seemed to click into place, with the boys demonstrating exceptional teamwork, skill, and determination throughout the match. Both in attack and defence, their effort and execution were outstanding, leaving no doubt about their dominance on the field. It was an exciting benchmark for things to come!

Following a demanding pre-season in school, the 1st XV enjoyed a good campaign. Standout performances throughout the year were from 1st XV Captain, Kian Simms, Edward Howlett and

Alberto Wong, who will be missed next year as they move onto their next adventures after school. Perhaps the most memorable fixture was the return of “Friday Night Lights” against Prior Park College at Combe Down RFC. The game was a showcase of skill and intensity, with Prior Park edging the win by capitalising on crucial moments. The atmosphere was electric, and Club Captain George Buhagiar delivered an exceptional performance, marking the perfect start to the season.

Once the 15-a-side season concluded, the U14 and U18 boys turned their focus to preparing for the prestigious Rosslyn Park National 7s tournament. The U14s built up to the competition with valuable fixtures against Prior Park College and Monkton Combe School, gaining crucial match experience and developing their skills. Their hard work and dedication paid off, as they enjoyed a memorable and rewarding experience at RPNS.

Meanwhile, the U18s participated in several highly competitive tournaments, including the Kings Bruton 7s, Bristol Grammar School 7s, and Collegiate 7s. Under the leadership of Johnny Rowell and Kian Simms, the squad embraced numerous learning opportunities and forged lasting memories over the three-month season. Their campaign culminated at RPNS in March, where they delivered a series of strong performances, highlighted by an outstanding win against Framlingham College—an exceptional way to close out their season.

As we celebrate another season, we also say goodbye to an exceptional group of Upper 6th players who have left a lasting impact on Downside Rugby: Kian Simms (1st XV Captain, U18 Somerset), Geroge Buhagiar (Club Captain), Adrian Mes (1st XV Vice-Captain, U18 Bath Academy), Johnny Rowell (1st VII Captain), Edward Howlett, Alberto Wong, Louis Bryan, Kaosi Kema, Joseph Ladipo, Jonah McGarry and Daniel Flynn. Their leadership, dedication, and passion have set an example for future generations, and we are incredibly grateful for their contributions. We wish them all the best as they move forward to new challenges and opportunities.

This season has been a testament to the talent, hard work, and commitment of our players. Every team has demonstrated remarkable progress, resilience, and sportsmanship, making the entire Downside community proud. As we build on this momentum, we look forward to even greater achievements in the seasons to come.

A huge thank you to every player, coach, and supporter who has been part of this journey. Your dedication and passion continue to define Downside Rugby, and we are excited for what the future holds.

Max Gauntlett, Rugby Development Lead & Coach

TENNIS

The 2024/25 tennis season will forever stand out on my calendar as a defining period for tennis at Downside School. With brand new tennis courts completed as part of the renovation project, we saw record participation rates in our sports programme, and an immensely successful tennis season, the sport’s presence at Downside has never been stronger. The legacy of past and present players is palpable, forming the foundation of what’s yet to come.

This season, both our girls’ and boys’ teams

faced off against King’s Bruton School , Wells Cathedral School, Warminster School, and Monkton Combe School. A special thank you to those who facilitated our journeys across the Southwest, and to Sarah Kieck and her catering team for their outstanding efforts in providing refreshments for our teams and visitors.

Our first fixture against King’s Bruton School did not disappoint. The balanced match showcased our attacking intent on a sunny afternoon, both at home and away. With eight teams in total, it was a great example of the outreach that the programme boasts. Though Kings Bruton posed a tricky challenge in terms of results, I was impressed with our team’s response, particularly in how they engaged with the tactical aspects of the game during subsequent training sessions. This year, we focused on positioning and capitalising on opportunities to attack the ‘centre window.’ The dedication and determination of our players have elevated our game, allowing us to make a significant impact on the tennis scene. Standout performances from both senior teams against Monkton Combe School and Warminster School were especially gratifying, as we saw Downside leading the tempo and dominating the scoreboards.

A special mention goes to those who proactively engaged with the tennis programme from September. Despite the court renovation project limiting access to our courts at times, our pupils showed remarkable adaptability. Thanks to our partnership with Writhlington Tennis Centre, we secured access to two indoor courts twice a week. This arrangement was a great success, offering our pupils high-quality facilities and coaching even during the worst of the Mendip weather. I also want to commend the pupils who continued to support the programme during their examination periods— your commitment exemplifies the balance between academic and extra-curricular pursuits that will serve you well in the future.

I am incredibly proud of our U15 & U14 teams this year. With three teams competing most weekends, there were ample opportunities to

represent Downside. Despite some challenging fixtures early on, the girls quickly found their rhythm, delivering notable performances against Stonar School and securing all sets in a competitive match against Leweston School and Sidcot School. The U13 and U12 teams also enjoyed a successful season, hosting Wells Cathedral School, Sidcot School and Stonar for block fixtures where every girl in the year group represented the school on one of our 13 courts for the second consecutive year. The range of tennis experience within these teams, including first-time competitive players, is encouraging, and their eagerness to learn and improve bodes well for the future of tennis at Downside.

The foundation laid during the 2020/21 season has led to significant achievements this year. The legacy of our Old Gregorians has sparked a growing demand for mixed tennis fixtures at the School. I was delighted to offer our pupils two evenings of mixed tennis this year, thanks to our strong connections with Warminster School. Hosting Warminster School on a Friday night in June was a particular highlight. ‘Henman Hill’ was buzzing with Downside pupils, parents, and staff, all eagerly anticipating a closely contested match. With music playing in the background, sunshine illuminating our newly renovated courts, and the promise of a late BBQ, it was a perfect evening of tennis and community. Following conversations with Warminster School staff and pupils over the BBQ, I’m pleased to confirm this fixture as an annual event, with Warminster hosting us next year. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this wonderful evening of tennis.

The demand for tennis continues to grow, and as the School community expands, I am excited and motivated to further develop the tennis programme. This year, we saw an unprecedented demand for tennis as a games option, with 127 pupils taking to the courts. I am thrilled by the enthusiasm and dedication of every pupil who represented Downside this

term. From our experienced players to our first-time players in the First Form, they have all set a remarkable example for the sporting community. A special mention to D. Flynn who leaves us at the end of this term. After many years of taking to the court to represent the school, I am delighted to see the progress that he has made as a very competent tennis player, but more importantly as a reliable, dedicated young man. We are delighted to award him the Senior Tennis Cap for his service to tennis. Our teams consistently embody the Benedictine Values every time they step onto the court, and I am proud to witness their role in raising the standards throughout our community. With exciting partnership prospects ahead in September, including the winter programme and our newly renovated courts, I am already looking forward to what lies ahead.

To the pupils who are leaving us this year: thank you. You have been integral to the growth and success of tennis at Downside. I encourage each of you to continue pursuing tennis wherever you go, any court that welcomes you will be fortunate to have you. Those who step onto the court in future years at Downside will be indebted to the foundation you have laid for a lasting love of tennis at our school. Thank you.

Conor O’Rourke, Tennis Development Lead & Coach

ATHLETICS

The Athletics season is relatively short. Aside from the Inter-House Athletics event in early May, it is focused on the Mendip Schools Championships in late May and the Somerset Schools Championships in mid-June.

Traditionally we enter many athletes for the Area competition, and this year was no exception when twenty-nine pupils travelled to Millfield to compete in a variety of Track & Field events. The

top two athletes from each event/category are then selected to represent Mendip Schools at the County event in Yeovil. Louis D’Estampes Vallancey (U16 Boys 1500m), Valentina Kemp (U16 Girls 1500m), Kian Simms (U18 Boys Long Jump and High Jump) and Joseph Ladipo (U18 Boys 400m) would all achieve the necessary standard and were selected to compete in the County Championships. Joseph Ladipo (Upper Sixth Roberts) would be the pick of our athletes and would win the Somerset Schools U18 Boys 400m title in a time of 54.94 secs. This hugely impressive achievement would also earn Joseph selection to the Somerset Schools squad which would then compete at the South West School Championships in Exeter. Against the best 400m from across the region, Joseph would again make it on to the podium, achieving 3rd place and a bronze medal to end the season on a high. Well done to all athletes for their personal achievements and development throughout the season.

Richard Jones, Director of Sport

BADMINTON

It has been a great honour to lead and coach the badminton team for one final time. This year has been another remarkable chapter in what

has been a deeply fulfilling four-year journey. I have witnessed—and shared in—the passion so many of you bring to this fast, demanding, and exhilarating sport. It has been a joy to grow alongside you, both as players and as a team.

A major highlight this year was our debut in the Somerset County Tournament, where Carl Chan and I reached the final after an intense victory over the seeded pair from Wells Cathedral School. With Carl’s sharp net play and our well-established coordination, we gained the upper hand early in the match. Sadly, an injury and fatigue forced us to settle for second place—but the achievement remains a milestone for our team.

Our fixture list also included home and away matches against King’s Bruton, Monkton Combe, and Sherborne School. We maintained our winning record against King’s and Monkton and

enjoyed a particularly competitive and spirited match against Sherborne. Although we were narrowly defeated overall, Carl and I secured victory in both singles and doubles. These fixtures offered invaluable experience for a broad range of players and reinforced our team’s growing reputation for sportsmanship and perseverance.

I would like to offer special mention to Alvin Cheung, whose rapid progress this year has been nothing short of impressive. His composure and adaptability on court have developed considerably, and I am confident he will lead the team with distinction as Captain next season. The team has also welcomed several promising new talents, including Ermin Cheung and Zuba Kwan, whose skill, dedication, and consistency have greatly enriched our squad.

A heartfelt thank you goes to our leavers: Max Su, Carl Chan, Ella Chow, Alex Henson, Rennie Chiu, Desmond Chan, Phoebus Lau, and Edward Doo. Your commitment, performances, and leadership have helped shape the identity and strength of this team. I’d also like to extend special thanks to Ella and Rennie for their constant support throughout the year.

As many of us prepare to move on, I am reassured by the spirit and enthusiasm I see in the next generation. Our love for the game, our camaraderie, and our shared values have already taken root in those who will carry this team forward. Finally, my deepest thanks go to Mr Potter, whose guidance, encouragement, and steady presence over the past four years have made a lasting impact on all of us. It has been a privilege to play under his mentorship.

Max Su (Captain)

BASKETBALL

The sport of basketball continues to thrive at Downside, and this season would be no exception. With a fixture programme including home & away

matches against Clifton College, Sidcot and Wells Cathedral School alongside Trowbridge Hawks and an Old Gregorian team there was a great deal to look forward to.

The weekly training programme between September-December continued to be player led, with Senior players Alva Kwan, Adrian Tse and Karson Choi leading training and supporting younger players’ development. It was fantastic to see so many girls at the weekly training sessions this season, with a great deal of ability on show.

The first fixture was an away trip to Clifton College, which would see the hosts win 47-64. However, the next match would be the muchanticipated return of the OG team, led by Jimmy Chow (Smythe 2022) who was by now playing for the University of Durham in the BUCS leagues. In a virtuoso performance Jimmy would lead the scoring with 38 points, but the school side would rally strongly in the final period to record a famous 64-59 victory, much to the pleasure of a noisy crowd which had packed the balcony in the Sports Hall to support.

An away trip to Trowbridge Hawks basketball club would see our team play against their large squad of U16s. Injuries and unavailability however meant that we would travel with only seven players, including Eric Wu (Third Form) making his debut. Karson Choi was unplayable throughout the match and would end with an individual tally of 32 points. However, in a tense final period in which we struggled to limit individual fouls, the score was tied at 55-55. The hosts would though score a final second basket to claim an infamous 57-55 win to show that it’s not over until it’s over! A McDonalds stop on the way back to school went someway to lifting our spirits!

The remaining fixtures of the season would see us defeat Clifton College 45-41 in the return match at Downside. With us having been behind in the first and second quarters we were learning to manage games and finish well which was pleasing. Next up was an away trip to Sidcot, in which we again struggled contain their star man. However, we never stopped competing and Adrian Mes would end with a personally tally of 9

fouls (thankfully overlooked by the referee!) and Karson Choi would top score with 20 personal points in a 51-56 defeat which was evidence of the performance level we could now reach in tight matches. The final match of the season was against Wells Cathedral School. In a feisty and at times emotionally charged match, we would control the ball well in the closing quarter to secure a 41-36 win and end the season undefeated at Home.

This would round off a good season in which played six matches and won three of them, scoring 303 points in the process. Of the matches we lost, two of them were by five points or less showing the progression of this group of players. With only two Upper Sixth players leaving, we can look forward to next season with confidence.

Richard Jones Director of Sport

CROSS COUNTRY

The Inter House cross country event returned in September, with the whole school taking part. From this event we were able to identify some talent with which to train and prepare for the rest of the season. In October the school would again host the first round of the English Schools Athletics Association (ESAA) Schools Cup cross country event, at which our runners would compete in teams against some of the best schools in the South West.

Alongside the senior school circuit competition, Downside also hosts a range of Primary events throughout the season. The Mendip Primary Schools cross country event involves twenty-eight Primary & Prep Schools from across the area, and sees Year 3, Year 4, Year 5 and Year 6 runners take part in four rounds of competition over a 1.4km or 2.0 km course. Downside athletes Bonnie James, Valentina Kemp, Max Bellord and Finn Bradley would all act as ‘hares’ in these events and in some cases had to work very hard not to be caught –such was the talent on show!

In November the Mendip District Schools Championships was at Millfield and saw twenty six Downside athletes compete and a record number (18 pupils) achieve selection for the Area Team to take part in the Somerset Schools Championships in January – a fantastic achievement. All of our athletes who would progress to run in this County round at RNAS Merryfield would do well and Max Bellord (First Form) would achieve selection to the Somerset Schools team to compete at the South West Schools Championshiops in Newquay in February. Having qualified for the Somerset team in 8th position at the county event, Max would improve on that to finish as the 5th fastest in the team and one of the six scoring positions for the team. Max finished 32nd from a field of 62 of the best Year 7 athletes from across the South Westa superb achievement.

Richard Jones Director of Sport

FOOTBALL

MICHAELMAS TERM 2024

With a large number of the squad from the previous season having moved on there was an air of the unknown about how the Downside Development team would play in the Michaelmas term.

First Game of the Season vs Kings Bruton Downside started the season strong with a dominant 6-1 victory. Despite a few early scares, they controlled the game, with standout performances from Garrett and von Bodman, who each scored twice. Goalkeeper Marinus made crucial saves, earning special mention for his performance.

ISFA Bowl 1st Round vs St Joseph’s Reading Downside overcame St Joseph’s 4-1, with a standout hat-trick from Bonneau. Despite St Joseph’s early dominance, Downside found their

rhythm in the second half, scoring from set pieces and counterattacks. Marinus made several key saves, and the team secured a strong victory. This was the first win in a national competition in Downside’s footballing history.

County Cup 1st Round vs Clevedon

Downside played well but fell short, losing 1-0. Despite strong defending and goalkeeper Marinus’ excellent saves, they couldn’t find the back of the net, and Clevedon scored from a scrappy moment before halftime. Downside created chances in the second half but couldn’t convert.

League Game vs Milton Abbey

Downside struggled in a heavy 10-0 defeat. They struggled to defend against set pieces, conceding multiple goals from corners. Despite their efforts, the team was outmatched by a clinical Milton Abbey, and the game was a tough loss to move on from.

League Game vs Warminster

In a 5-2 defeat to Warminster, Downside started slow, going 3-0 down by halftime. A brief comeback was sparked by a penalty and a goal from Danhawoor, but Warminster sealed the win with two more goals. The loss marked three consecutive defeats.

ISFA Bowl 2nd Round vs Wycliffe College

Downside were outclassed in a 4-0 defeat to Wycliffe. They struggled defensively, and although goalkeeper Marinus made key saves, Wycliffe capitalized on Downside’s errors. The team had

a strong 10-minute spell in the second half but couldn’t recover from a two-goal deficit.

OG Match

Downside faced a spirited OG team, losing 5-3. Despite early goals from both sides, Downside struggled with defensive lapses. A strong second-half showing, with Pike scoring, helped close the gap, but the OG team’s experience secured the win.

League Game vs Kings Taunton

Downside bounced back with a 6-3 victory, showing resilience after Taunton scored first. Garrett’s free-kick and Danhawoor’s penalty put Downside ahead followed by Pike’s brace and goals from Hayhurst and Manso Duffy sealed the win in a high-scoring match.

Final Match vs Canford

Downside finished the season on a high, winning 4-1. Garrett opened the scoring, and Marinus made crucial saves to maintain Downside’s lead. Von Bodman and Danhawoor extended the lead, and Garrett’s long-range goal sealed the victory. The team’s strong finish was marked by Marinus being named Man of the Match.

Overall, the season had its ups and downs, with dominant wins, tough defeats, and strong individual performances. The team showed resilience, especially in the latter half of the season, and their determination was evident in games like the 6-3 win against Kings Taunton and the 4-1 victory against Canford. A third-place finish in the league and a first ever win in a national competition were also highlights of the term.

LENT TERM 2025

1st XI

With the usual change in personnel as some boys opt for hockey and others join from rugby, this term is always about trying to rebuild again. Thankfully we had a few boys who knew how I

wanted to play and were able to fit in straight away. The vagaries of the English weather meant that the first training session took place on the snowcovered grounds of school which also caused a few games to be cancelled. However, during the term the boys worked hard and slowly developed a style of play that made us tough to break down.

Wellington vs Downside

The match was an exciting back-and-forth, with Wellington leading 2-0 early on, thanks to a wellexecuted goal and free kick. Downside fought back with Simms scoring to make it 2-1. Despite further goals from Wellington, including a lucky deflection and a free kick, Downside showed resilience with Flynn scoring and continuing to push forward. However, Wellington finished 5-2 victors. The match highlighted areas for Downside to improve, particularly in defense and communication.

Downside vs Sidcot

Downside faced a tough challenge after Sidcot initially took the lead, but Bonneau’s equalizer and Danhawoor’s goal before halftime kept the game level at 2-2. In the second half, Downside took a 3-2 lead, but Sidcot managed to equalize and eventually win 5-4 with a last-minute penalty, despite a great effort f rom Downside.

KES Bath vs Downside

The match ended 3-2 in favor of KES Bath. Downside capitalized on a goalkeeper error for an early goal, but KES Bath quickly equalized and then took a 3-1 lead in the second half. Downside responded with a penalty but couldn’t find an equalizer. Late drama included a missed penalty for KES Bath, and both teams had a player sent off in the last minute.

Downside vs Kingswood

A close, competitive game where Downside’s defense, with Mes in goal, limited Kingswood’s

chances. Despite creating some good opportunities, Downside couldn’t equalize after Kingswood’s lone goal in the first half. The game ended 1-0 in favour of Kingswood, with both teams praised for their sportsmanship.

Dauntsey’s vs Downside

Downside had their best performance of the term, dominating the game with fluid football. Rowell opened the scoring, and keeper Mes assisted Simms for a second goal. Dauntsey’s responded with a long-range shot in the second half but couldn’t equalize, leaving Downside with a 2-1 victory.

Downside vs QEH

Downside controlled much of the game but struggled to break down QEH’s defense. In the second half, QEH scored from a quick counterattack. Despite continued pressure and solid performances, particularly from Mes in goal, Downside couldn’t equalize, and the match ended 1-0 to QEH. Nonetheless, the team showed strong effort in their final game of the season. In summary, while Downside experienced some tough losses, they showed resilience, attacking quality, and improved play in recent matches, especially in games against Dauntsey’s and Kingswood.

2nd XI

With more boys able to choose football in the Lent Term it means that we can field a second team and give more pupils the opportunity to represent the school. This year we had a good number of matches arranged for the 2nd XI and the standard of the players was such that we felt confident of competitive matches.

Wellington vs Downside

The match was a tense battle with both teams creating opportunities but failing to score. Downside’s defense, particularly Erfurt and Hadley Arthur, stood firm, while Kwan’s tireless efforts across the pitch stood out as a key highlight.

Downside vs Sidcot

On a picturesque winter day, Downside faced Sidcot in their first home match. Despite some strong moments, including hitting the crossbar and Scanlan’s goal, Downside struggled defensively, allowing Sidcot to go 4-1 up. MansoDuffy converted a penalty, but Sidcot’s size and speed were too much, and Downside ultimately lost 4-2.

KES Bath vs Downside

In a challenging match played on a sloping pitch, Downside battled hard against KES Bath with no substitutes and only eleven players. Despite Kwan coming close to scoring and some strong defensive performances, KES Bath equalized in the second half. However, Downside held firm, with Campbell Meehan scoring a brilliant goal, and the match ended in a hard-earned 1-1 draw, with Downside’s performance showing great determination against a team with superior numbers.

Downside vs Stonar

With Mes making his first appearance for the school in goal, the 2nd XI had a much stronger defensive unit and were able to hold off the Sidcot attacks. Unfortunately, with no natural striker Downside were always struggling to put the ball in the Sidcot net. Despite a battling performance the match was decided by 1 goal for Sidcot but we can take heart from the determination that the team showed.

Downside vs Kingswood

With no Hockey matches taking place, Downside were able to call on the services of some players from the first term to fill the gaps left by pupils unable to attend. This gave the 2nd XI a much more solid team and they went in at half time 2-0 up. Unfortunately, Kingswood came out for the second half in a more determined mood and perhaps a bit of complacency set into the Downside team, and we went down 4-3 at the final whistle.

Dauntsey’s vs Downside

The final away trip of the term and Downside were only able to field the bare minimum of eleven players. There was also a certain number of players having to play in unfamiliar positions. To their credit Downside battled well during the first half and went to the break all square at 1-1. However, the lack of substitutes started to tell in the second half as Downside began to run out of steam and Dauntsey’s scored three more goal with no answer from Downside, for a 4-1 win.

Downside vs QEH

Another hockey free weekend allowed the 2nd XI to bolster their team in the hope of scoring the first win of the term. A good, strong start saw Downside compete with QEH and Marinus in goal producing some fine saves to keep the opposition out. At half time the sides couldn’t be separated at 1-1. The second half was similar to the first, but a calamitous mix-up resulted in an own goal to allow QEH to sneak ahead and despite a fine penalty save from Marinus, Downside were unable to get back into the game and lost 3-1.

In summary, Downside displayed great effort and resilience, particularly in their defense and midfield, despite facing stronger opposition in all matches. My thanks must go to Mr Walters for his help in training and managing the second team.

Paul Hunt, Football Development Lead Coach

GOLF

The development & performance golf programme launched in 2018 was producing a talent pool of golfers which were able to compete across a variety of formats and tournaments this year. Each week up to twenty players were practising every Wednesday afternoon at Farrington Park Golf Club, utilising the excellent floodlit driving range, and receiving tuition from the PGA coaching staff.

With the most able then also returning on Monday and Friday evenings for additional practice there was a great deal of excitement and optimism about the season ahead.

In the annual School v The Old Gregorian Golfing Society fixture in October we would claim the morning Foursomes 2-1, but a strong comeback in the afternoon saw the OGGS win all but one of the singles matches to retain The Salmon Chalice by 5 ½ to 3 ½. Congratulations must go to Oscar Rooney for remaining unbeaten all day, including 5 & 4 singles win against the President!

The ISGA match play event was a new competition for Downside, but one in which we would enjoy great success this season. Schools select their best three players to face off in 18-hole scratch competition. Our first-round match in October saw Rosie Rooney, Oscar Rooney and Diego Romo De Vivar Valladares travel away to Sherborne Golf Club to face Sherborne School. After a close contest, we would emerge as 2-1 winners and progress to play King’s College Taunton at Oake Manor Golf Club in November. Cameron Colbourne would come in to replace the unavailable Oscar for this match, which would see Rosie win 3&1, Diego win 2&1 and Cameron 3 &2 to set up a Regional Final against Wellington School in February. This final at Isle of Wedmore Golf Club was played in bitterly cold conditions and would be decided by a play-off on the 55th and 56th holes, with the match ending level after the first 3 rounds. Unfortunately, it was not to be for us on these two deciding holes and Wellington would progress to the National Final in April. March would see the Somerset Schools competition at Weston-Super-Mare Golf Club, at which Rosie Rooney, Rupert Tagent, Cameron Colbourne and Oscar Rooney would all represent Downside. All three boys would manage the course well and equal or better their handicaps which was very pleasing. School golf captain Rosie was runner-up at this event in 2023, and on paper had the lowest handicap (1.0) but playing in a four ball with Millfield girls all with handicaps of 8.0 or

less, it promised to be a thrilling match. Thankfully Rosie would deliver and claim the title of Somerset Schools Girls’ golf champion 2025.

In May we would return to some inter-school fixtures, with a tough loss for our U18A team against a very strong Clifton College team, followed by two wins against King’s School, Bruton. The first was a development fixture at Wheathill Golf Club for our U18B team, in which six players (Harry Garrett, Hugh Jones, Benedict Doebler, Jasper Toller, Josh Uhrmacher, Finlay Baker) who had not previously represented the school this season played foursomes and claimed a 2 ½ to ½ win, further showcasing the talent which was emerging from the school programme. This was followed up a week later by an U18A team (Rosie Rooney, Rupert Tagent, Oscar Rooney, Diego Romo De Vivar Valladares, Oscar Tagent, Harry Garrett) which would see our top six players win 2 to 1 at Orchardleigh Golf Club.

The final competition of the season would see Rosie, Oscar T and Diego all play in the OGGS Summer Meeting at Mendip Golf Club at the end of June, further strengthening our links to the Society. Having won four of our six inter-school matches this season, and only losing one of a play-off, the 2024/25 season would be one of the most successful for many years. We can look forward with enthusiasm to next year and establishing an even stronger association with our recent leavers and The OGGS.

Richard Jones, Director of Sport

TABLE TENNIS

The table tennis team has enjoyed another active, competitive, and thoroughly rewarding season. Undeterred by the cold and gloomy weather, our three-weekly training sessions remained lively and productive, underpinned by a spirit of full participation and enjoyment. Training was designed to engage all players, with movement between full-

size and mini tables encouraging the development of varied techniques and match play styles. This inclusive approach continues to foster both individual improvement and team cohesion.

Our squad, drawn from the Fifth and Sixth Forms, showed impressive commitment and camaraderie throughout the season. This year’s team comprised: Desmond Chan (Captain), Ella Chow (Vice-Captain), Phoebus Lau, Edward Doo, Max Su, Alex Carl, Daphne Chan, Martha Che, Edwin Kwong, Rennie Chiu, Adrian Tse, Alvin Cheung, and Ermin Cheung.

We played both home and away fixtures against King’s Bruton and Monkton Combe, maintaining our 100% success rate. These matches were played in excellent spirit, providing valuable experience for a wide range of players, and reinforcing our team’s

reputation for sportsmanship and excellence.

We are proud of our results and of the positive contribution we’ve made to the wider table tennis community. Sincere thanks go to Mr Potter, whose guidance and encouragement have been instrumental throughout the season.

We also offer warm thanks and best wishes to our Upper Sixth leavers: Desmond, Max, Rennie, Martha, Phoebus, Edward, and Justin. Their leadership, enthusiasm, and dedication over the past three seasons have left a lasting legacy. It has been our privilege to represent the School and to be part of such a vibrant and supportive sporting community.

Desmond Chan (Captain) and Ella Chow (Vice-Captain)

TRIPS

SKERN LODGE

At the end of the year, the Third Form embarked on an unforgettable school trip to Skern Lodge in North Devon. Nestled near the coast, Skern Lodge provided the perfect backdrop for a weekend filled with adventure, teamwork, and personal growth. It was an exciting and enriching experience that the pupils thoroughly enjoyed. From the moment we arrived, the staff at Skern Lodge welcomed us with warmth and enthusiasm, setting the tone for a few days of outdoor learning and fun. Each day was packed with thrilling activities that challenged the pupils both physically and mentally, while also strengthening the bonds within the group.

Surfing was one of the highlights. For many pupils, it was their first time on a surfboard. Although tricky at first, the patient and

encouraging instructors helped everyone gain confidence. After a few tumbles and plenty of laughter, several pupils managed to stand up and ride the waves into shore. The sense of achievement was incredible, made even more special by the stunning beach setting.

Kayaking along the estuary was another favourite. Pupils learned how to paddle efficiently, steer their kayaks, and work together in pairs. The calm waters and scenic surroundings created a peaceful yet engaging experience.

The high ropes course tested courage and trust. Suspended high above the ground, pupils navigated rope bridges, swinging logs, and even took the leap of faith. It was both nerve-wracking and exhilarating. With encouragement from classmates, even the most nervous participants overcame their fears and pushed beyond their comfort zones. The sense of accomplishment at the end was unforgettable.

Perhaps the most adrenaline-pumping activity was power boating. Speeding across the water with the wind in their faces was a thrilling experience. Pupils learned about boat safety, how

to steer, and even had the chance to take the helm under supervision. It was a unique and exciting taste of life on the water.

Evenings at Skern Lodge were just as enjoyable. There was time to relax, reflect on the day’s adventures, and take part in games and activities organised by the staff.

Overall, the trip to Skern Lodge was a tremendous success. Each activity brought new challenges and opportunities for growth, and the memories made will stay with the pupils for years to come. It was a weekend of laughter, learning, and lasting friendships.

Adam Broomfield

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM WALLS: CELEBRATING ADVENTURE TRAINING AT DOWNSIDE SCHOOL

At Downside School, education extends far beyond the traditional confines of textbooks and classrooms. Nestled within its rich heritage lies a dynamic and celebrated force, the Outdoor Education Department. This isn’t merely an extracurricular add-on; it’s a vital artery pumping adventure, resilience, and invaluable life lessons into the heart of the Downside experience. Through a diverse and challenging voluntary program of co-curricular activities encompassing sailing, caving, climbing, pony trekking, mountain biking, canoeing, and kayaking, the department shapes pupils in profound ways, forging character and unlocking potential under the open sky.

Imagine the scene, pupils harnessing the power of the wind during our weekly sailing sessions, where they learn not just the mechanics of tacking and gybing, but the essence of teamwork, communication, and reading the ever-changing elements. The responsibility of handling a dinghy instils confidence and demands quick, collaborative decision-making, lessons that translate directly into

leadership and adaptability in any future arena.

Venture underground, and the transformative power of caving becomes apparent. Descending into the cathedral-like caverns of the Mendips, pupils confront literal and metaphorical darkness. Navigating tight squeezes, scrambling over boulder chokes, and relying on headlamps and teammates fosters unparalleled trust, problem-solving under pressure, and the immense satisfaction of conquering personal fears. It’s a masterclass in resilience and mutual support in the most unique of classrooms.

Back on the surface, the vertical challenge of climbing, both indoor and on the dramatic crags of Burrington Combe demands focus, physical control, and mental fortitude. Pupils learn the discipline of safety checks, the importance of precise movement, and the exhilaration of

pushing personal boundaries. Each successful ascent, whether a top rope climb or a multipitch adventure, builds self-belief and teaches that daunting goals can be broken down into manageable steps.

The thrill of exploration continues on two wheels with mountain biking. Traversing trails and tackling technical descents across the local area, pupils develop bike-handling skills, spatial awareness, and endurance. It’s a dynamic activity requiring constant assessment of terrain, quick reactions, and the perseverance to power through challenging climbs, fostering grit and a deep appreciation for the landscape rushing by.

Water provides another powerful medium for growth. Canoeing and kayaking on journeys along rivers like the Avon teach fluid dynamics, paddle technique, and the nuances of reading water. These

activities emphasise coordination, balance, and core strength. More importantly, they cultivate environmental awareness as pupils become intimate with river ecosystems, and teamwork becomes paramount when manoeuvring tandem canoes or supporting fellow paddlers in a selection of kayaks.

This year we were pleased to add a unique dimension to our program by offering pupils the opportunity to go pony trekking at the nearby Tynnings Trekking Centre, which offers a different kind of adventure. Exploring the beautiful Mendip Hills on horseback developing not only balance but also empathy, responsibility, and communication as pupils learn to work sensitively with their equine partners. It provides a serene yet powerful experience, fostering confidence through gentle guidance and a profound connection with the animal and landscape, developing patience and emotional intelligence in a unique rewarding setting.

The benefits of this immersive outdoor training are immeasurable and extend far beyond the activity itself:

Resilience and Grit: Facing physical challenges, unpredictable weather, and moments of discomfort teaches pupils to persevere, manage setbacks, and discover inner strength they didn’t know they possessed.

Confidence and Self-Belief: Mastering new skills, whether tying a bowline, leading a climb, or navigating a rapid, provides an unparalleled confidence transfusion. Pupils realise their capabilities are greater than they imagined.

Teamwork and Communication: Success in the outdoors is rarely solo. Activities demand clear communication, mutual trust, shared responsibility, and supporting peers through difficulty – the bedrock of effective collaboration.

Problem-Solving and Decision-Making: Navigating unfamiliar terrain, assessing risks, adapting plans due to changing conditions – the outdoors is a constant, real-world laboratory for critical thinking and sound judgement.

Leadership and Responsibility: Opportunities to lead groups, manage equipment, and make safety-

critical decisions foster leadership qualities and a profound sense of responsibility for oneself and others.

Connection with Nature and Wellbeing:

Immersion in natural environments promotes mental well-being, reduces stress, and instils a deep respect and stewardship for the natural world. The Downside Outdoor Education Department, with its passionate and highly qualified volunteers, provides far more than adrenaline rushes. It delivers a holistic education, shaping well-rounded, capable, and resilient young adults. Through the water spray of sailing, the earthy silence of caves, the vertical challenge of rock faces, the muddy tracks of mountain biking, and the flow of river journeys, pupils discover not just the world around them, but the vast potential within themselves. Why would you not want to get involved?

Mr D Pollard

COMMUNITY NEWS

The monks of the Abbey of St Gregory the Great continue to keep themselves occupied and our outreach has, if anything, grown in the past few years. Followers on our social media channels (especially Instagram) continue to grow and the monthly on-line service with prayers for healing, led by Dom Michael, is viewed by a large number of people, whether live or later on. This usually takes place at 2pm on the first Saturday of the month on Instagram Live. Dom Michael continues to

be in demand as a skilled carpenter for churches around the country. He was also invited to give some talks at the retreat for permanent deacons of the Clifton Diocese.

Last Advent our parochial presence increased as Dom James and Dom John moved to Hereford to run the parish of St Francis Xavier in the middle of the town, just a few meters from Hereford Cathedral. Parish life is busy, and the Sunday Masses are pretty full with lots of activities during the week, too. They invited

Dom Anselm to spend a Saturday morning with the parish musicians, looking at some of the principles of liturgical singing and of Gregorian Chant, much of which is very singable and highly suited to parish liturgy. The workshop was very well attended, and that weekend saw some more plainchant sung at the Masses.

Dom James continues to keep in touch with the oblates of our Community as Oblate Master, organising regular days at Downside for them, and a group went to Rome for a pilgrimage during this Holy Year, staying at the Benedictine college of Sant’Anselmo on the Aventine hill, where they were able to catch up with Dom David, who is Choir Master there, and teaches Latin and Greek. Many will know that Dom James is a keen walker, and so Dom Martin (priest in charge of Stratton on the Fosse) asked him to lead a group on a pilgrimage walk from Downside to Glastonbury, a route with which he is very familiar.

Dom John continues to work on his dissertation in order to finish his studies for the Licence in Monastic Studies at Sant’Anselmo, whilst also being assistant priest in Hereford and a member of the General Chapter Preparation Committee for our Congregation. The General Chapter is the legislative body of the English Benedictine Congregation, which meets every four years in order to enact any new regulations and to discuss matters of concern to all the monasteries of the Congregation. In preparation for this Dom Anselm

was asked to look at the revision of a part of the Constitutions with our canon lawyer.

Dom Anselm has been occupied in different ways this year. He was invited to give a day of recollection to the parish in Totnes and also represented the Community in Drogheda, Ireland, at a series of celebrations of 400 years since the birth of St Oliver Plunkett and 50 years since his canonisation. This summer he taught an intensive five-day course in Biblical Hebrew for beginners at the Benedictine Institute, run by Ealing Abbey in London, which covered the main points of grammar and ended by reading the first chapters of the book of Jonah.

Dom Dominic has downscaled his magic a bit, but still managed to put on a few magic shows at Southgate House for the friends of the community. He could regularly be seen talking to the visitors to Buckfast and would often come to community meetings with prayer requests from the people he had met. He continues to be the infirmarian for the community. Dom Christopher has developed a role as the chief-ironer for the community. He is extremely good at ironing and very happy to iron the sacristy linen, shirts etc, and in this way to help out in the community. Dom Charles joins the community for the Office and Mass and is our source for memories of things past. If we need (or want) to know when something happened, what were the attendant circumstances etc, he is our go-to.

It will not have escaped notice that we are now using a different translation of the biblical readings at Mass, which necessitated a new set of lectionaries and missals. Hodder and Stoughton were looking for someone to help edit their edition of the Sunday Missal and Dom Leo was recommended to them. He embarked on the task with enthusiasm and enlisted a number of people from many walks of life to write introductions to the readings for the various Sundays and Feastdays of the Church’s year. He has continued to be engaged in lettering work in wood for various items, to be the Chaplain to St Gregory’s Society and helped to organise a Mass and meeting in London for the alumni of the Benedictine schools in the United Kingdom.

The other non-resident brethren continue to be usefully employed! Dom Martin is priest-in-charge in St Benedict’s parish, Stratton on the Fosse, paying regular visits to the other brethren, whilst Dom Boniface is much appreciated as Chaplain to the Benedictine nuns of Kylemore Abbey, County Galway in Ireland, and Dom Richard is novice and junior master in Belmont Abbey’s priory outside Lima in Peru, as well as helping Benedictine monks and nuns of various Congregations with their Constitutions and carrying out Visitations at the request of different Bishops and Abbot Presidents.

Abbot Nicholas has continued to be busy. An Abbot’s role involves a lot of administration, which for our community involves regular visits

to Downside, where our staff are based. In the midst of all this, he continues to check on the wellbeing of the monks and to take care of various practicalities in the running of the monastery. He is Chair of our different charitable Trusts and so has continued to be in touch with Downside School, which we have continued to support financially over the past year. He is also a member of the Abbot President’s Council and the Committee that oversees the running of the Union of Monastic Superiors, so has much to do.

The big news is that the monastic community have moved again. The move to Southgate House in the grounds of Buckfast Abbey was always temporary and we are grateful to Abbot David and the Community at Buckfast for making the house available to us. Following discussions, we have now moved to Belmont Abbey, near Hereford, where we are living as one community with the monks of Belmont (although we are still two independent communities in terms of canon law) in order to experiment and seek ultimately to join together in some way to make a larger and stronger community that, we hope, will be a force for good in the Church, for the spread of the Gospel and attractive to new members. The Belmont Community, like us, run parishes and retreats. We are currently 22 members in residence at Belmont and there are other monks from both communities living in parishes, mostly within about a 40-minute drive.

The move was physically quite an event. Having downsized once, you would think that it would be easy, but in three years we all managed to acquire more things, and so had to sort again. This time some items were returned to Downside, some stayed and some came to Belmont, so the move was logistically slightly more complex than previously. However, we managed it with good humour and an excellent removal firm (Big Tuna in Plymouth). The people from Big Tuna kept commenting on how much they enjoyed a job which was not quite the average house move, and the complexities (and conversations with members of the community about a wide range of topics) made it more interesting for them!

We have been very warmly welcomed at Belmont. Some of the Belmont community had been to visit us and we had been here, and so there was already some familiarity and a sense that we have much in common. For many years Belmont was the site of the common novitiate and most of the priors of Belmont were monks of Downside. As it happens, the first Abbot of Belmont was a monk of Downside and our current Abbot is a monk of Belmont. When we arrived various things were in place: rooms had been renovated, we had pegs for cowls and in the

sacristy, named napkin rings, named places in choir and refectory, pigeonholes and, as said, a warm welcome from Abbot Brendan and the community. At the time of writing we are beginning to take our turn in the different jobs that help any monastery to run smoothly.

Do keep us in your prayers, and to support us by following our social media (Instagram is most active) or by remembering us financially. We are able to receive Mass stipends to celebrate Mass for your intentions. Just send an email to monks@stgregorys.org to arrange this.

Dom Anselm Brumwell

SALVETE VALETE &

SALVETE

Karen Randall Director of Performing Arts

Jamie Gostlow Head of Politics, Teacher of History

Zoe Davison Teacher of Art

Eloise Grandfield Artist in Residence

Alex Lyons Resident Sports Assistant

Emma Guy Resident Sports Assistant

Madison Hurley Resident Sports Assistant

Peter Thomson Director of Choral & Liturgical Music

Christine Read Receptionist

Tom Powell Resident Sports Assistant

VALETE

ANDREW HOBBS

Farewell to Andrew Hobbs

Andrew Hobbs came to Downside as Deputy Head in September 2008 before being appointed to the great office of Head of Downside School in September 2018. This last year was sadly his last lap around the academic track before a wellearned rest in retirement.

The challenge ahead of Downside at the time of his appointment was understood to be the separation in governance between the Downside Abbey General Trust and the newly formed Downside School charitable trust. How could the School possibly remain a bright light in the world of Catholic Benedictine Education without the underpinning presence of the monastic community?

Andrew embraced this challenge, becoming and shaping the very embodiment of our culture and ethos at Downside, where of course learning and development is for everyone in our community. However, it soon became clear that this was not going to be the only ball he had to juggle during his tenure! I doubt the School has faced so many challenges since the war years, with the separation of the charities and all that led up to it, the global crises of covid, cost of living, and more locally the

new tax regime brought in by the government for charitable schools.

Rather than dwell on these issues and how he dealt with each wave of uncertainty, which no doubt Andrew can reminisce about in his retirement, today we should reflect on what it is about Andrew that made him the right soul at the right time to lead our community.

Andrew listened to the Word, he internalised the gospels and they informed his thinking, decision making process and actions. He put the pupils first, ahead of parents, staff and anyone else that tried to influence him.

Andrew exercised regularly, not just regular wild swimming, cycling and running, but more importantly daily inculcation of the values and behaviours that he wanted to inform his life and all our lives in the School community. The School promise is for “A Life Fully Lived”. Andrew owned it. To illustrate this, I have reflected on our weekly meetings and some of the wisdom contained in the Rule.

Listening and responding with humility: Sometimes a conversation with Andrew could be a little frustrating because he would still be thinking whilst I was often too keen to make the next point on my list of things to discuss. In reality, he was displaying obedience by slowly digesting what had been said before adding to the point I was trying to make. These engagements were always positive, and we would always accept the outcome of a discussion and a decision jointly made.

Knowing one’s limitations and relying on God and others: There was never an ego in his thinking or behaviour, the needs and feelings of others were always considered first. He was very open about any blind spots he may have had in his knowledge and capability, accepting graciously mistakes pointed out with real humility.

Commitment to community and rootedness in place: Loyalty to all in the Downside community was never in doubt, he has been resilient, displaying stability in the face of

seemingly overwhelming crises. Andrew worked through difficulties in the best long-term interests of the pupils and the School. His decision making with great integrity has built a deep trust that he would always try to do the right thing in any situation.

Continuous growth and transformation: Andrew is still running and swimming, and he will still be growing in love with Christ. Change is a constant in our lives, but some things like faith, should not change, they must just grow stronger and deeper.

Welcoming all as Christ: His leadership and hospitality has ensured that Downside is open to all who want to journey with us be they Catholic or not. We are all made in the image and likeness of God; this revelation creates a friendly, generous, supportive, respectful and forgiving community always welcoming newcomers.

Living and growing together in mutual respect: Our community is such a beautiful creation which Andrew has nurtured with the pupils, teaching and support staff to foster work, study and prayer. Pupils and staff help each other, and oil is quickly poured on any troubled waters.

Balancing spiritual and worldly life: A rhythm of prayer, work and reflection is Andrew’s exercise routine. Being visible in worship and daily life, demonstrating service, proved his integrity. Agree or disagree with all his decisions, everyone knew where he stood and why.

Respect for creation and careful use of resources: It does not matter how long ago it was since you were last at Downside, it looks and feels the same even if it could do with a coat of paint in places! Some might say that is because money is tight, and we never had enough to over develop it, let alone keep up with the decoration! Others might say it is because every stone, every wooden block is respected but what surplus money there might be is spent on the pupils’ lived experience.

Lastly of course there are the parables, I think Andrew will be best known for two; the Parable

of the Lost Sheep which guided his dealings with pupils who had erred and the Parable of the Talents which he used to inspire us all.

Thank you, Andrew from all our community –over to you Damaris!

John Ludlow, Chair of Governors

HANNAH ALCANTARA

Hannah joined the Science Department in January 2018, bringing with her a rich and varied background as a professional musician and educator in the field of music. From her very first lesson during the interview process, it was clear that she was a natural teacher. Despite having never taught in a classroom before, her ability to tailor pedagogical approaches to suit individual pupils’ needs was exceptional. She inspired a love of science—particularly biology— through her innate ability to foster curiosity, engagement, and deep learning. Soon after joining, Hannah took on the responsibility of leading KS3 Science. Drawing on her academic foundation in Natural Sciences, she developed a holistic and enquiry-led approach that celebrated scientific skills and thinking. Her lessons were filled with awe, wonder, and thoughtful questioning, encouraging pupils to see science not just as a subject, but as a way of understanding the world.

In 2021, Hannah led an Academic Enrichment Project focused on uncovering cross-curricular academic connections. This project gave rise to our popular ‘Theme Weeks,’ which have since become an anticipated highlight of the school year. Whether delving into the complexities of the human brain, planting hundreds of trees during Tree Week, or exploring the science and cultural history of bread, these weeks have vividly brought learning to life across multiple subjects.

In 2022, she was appointed Assistant Housemistress of Caverel House. In this pastoral role, she has offered unwavering support to many girls, guiding them through the ups and

downs of teenage life with empathy, patience, and wisdom.

Appointed Head of Biology and Environmental Science in 2024, Hannah pioneered the introduction of Environmental Science at A level, expanding the department’s offering and championing a subject increasingly vital in today’s world. She lives her life with a strong sense of environmental responsibility, consciously assessing her choices to reduce her carbon footprint wherever possible. This ethos carries through to her teaching, where she encourages students to reflect on the environmental impact of their own decisions and to think critically about sustainability in their everyday lives. Her leadership of MedSoc has further inspired future medics, offering valuable insight, guidance, and motivation for those aspiring to careers in healthcare.

A truly exceptional educator, Hannah combines academic rigour with creativity, kindness, and a tireless commitment to her students. Whether delivering engaging lessons, running 1:1 support clinics, preparing students for Oxbridge interviews, or guiding accelerated GCSE candidates, she always strives to bring out the very best in each individual.

Hannah leaves with our deepest thanks and very best wishes. Her impact has been profound, and she will be greatly missed by pupils and colleagues alike.

Paul Rigby

so effectively. When the opportunity arose in September 2023 for Max to become the full-time Assistant Housemaster in Powell House, he was relieved to be able to combine both Pastoral and Coaching roles at the same School.

Within the rugby programme Max continued to provide superb coaching and leadership, supporting all players to improve and develop a love of the game. Under Max’s leadership, we would enter our first mixed gender Third Form Touch competition with huge success, and he was instrumental in the launch of a first for Downside - a training programme for girls’ rugby. When the Housemaster role in Powell unexpectedly became available in September 2024 Max would be invited to step up into the top job, and he did so with customary dedication, commitment and enthusiasm.

MAX GAUNTLETT

Max joined us Rugby Development Lead Coach in September 2022, having worked previously at Millfield. In fact, in that first year Max would continue to combine his new role at Downside with the Assistant Housemaster position he would continue to hold at Millfield School throughout this first year. Max managed his time superbly well in that year and earned the respect of many for the way he combined both roles

Under his leadership Powell House boys were nurtured and encouraged to be young men of character and there was a tangible atmosphere of purpose and togetherness in the House. Max would lead numerous charitable projects, including collecting unwanted rugby shirts for youth teams in Kenya, raising thousands of pounds for The Bristol Children’s Hospital by running the Bath Half Marathon and organising sponsored running & biking challenges for pupils along the Collier Way from Radstock to Frome during Activities Week. Max, his partner Kitty and Ellie the dalmation were a big part of life at Downside for only a relatively short time, but their legacy will last for many years. We wish them all well as they move to Dauntsey’s School in Wiltshire where Max will be a full-time teacher of PE and rugby coach, and as a couple Max & Kitty will jointly be Assistant House Parents of a junior boarding house.

Richard Jones

Max has served with distinction as House Master of Powell house, demonstrating unwavering kindness, compassion, and a commitment to servant leadership. He maintained exemplary

standards of order while fostering an environment of joy and camaraderie, enabling pupils to develop friendships and grow personally within a supportive community. His contribution extended well beyond the house; as Head of Rugby and an active member of the pastoral team, he played a pivotal role in shaping the wider life of the school. Through his professionalism, integrity, and dedication, he has enriched the school’s culture and provided a model of leadership that prioritises care, character, and the holistic development of every pupil.

Claire Murphy

ELOISE GRANDFIELD

Eloise Grandfield as Artist in Residence has made a fantastic contribution to the Art department this year and the students have been very lucky to have had her help and inspiration. She worked tirelessly with the GCSE and A Level students helping them to develop ideas and print techniques for their projects. We are very grateful for the work she did to help 5 A Level students produce professional portfolios for their creative university applications.

She brought inspiration to every group she has worked with and especially leading the Lent term Third Form project, with the theme of hedgerows linked to her own work. The year culminated in an exhibition of her work in the theatre foyer alongside the 3rd Form students final prints.

Eloise also created 3 abstract paintings for the new Sixth Form Centre. A vivid combination of shapes in blue and orange they work really well in the contemporary setting.

We wish her all the best for the future and hope she has a lovely time in Canada in the next year and we will miss her very much.

Erica Williams

EMMA GUY

Emma was a dependable, reliable, hardworking, proactive, and good-humoured Resident Sport Assistant, despite the challenges this year has thrown her way. These are all wonderful traits in a school, and I know that Emma is going to be equally valued by the Sports Department at Brighton College in Sussex as she heads there to further develop her coaching and teaching experiences, with a view to potentially embarking on a PGCE soon. We wish her every success and hope that she takes a great deal of encouragement from how successful she has been in all aspects of her work in Sport, Isabella House, and weekend activities this year. She had every quality to be a brilliant teacher if you chose this path.

Richard Jones

MADISON HURLEY

Maddie would provide primary support for the sport of rugby in the Michaelmas Term, netball in the Lent Term and tennis in the Summer Term of her placement year from the University of Bournemouth. Maddie also led the Health & Wellbeing option in Senior Games, supporting numerous girls with their physical conditioning. Maddie was also a reliable Resident House Assistant in Caverel. We wish her every success in the future and hope that you she learned a great deal over the placement period.

ALEX LYONS

Alex was appointed as a Resident Sport Assistant with a specialism in cricket. After making a positive start to the year and helping to coach rugby and deliver winter cricket nets, Alex would then leave at Christmas to take up a full time role as a Sports Development officer in Somerset. Having recently graduated with a related degree,

Richard Jones

this was obviously an opportunity which Alex couldn’t turn down and he went with our good wishes. Sadly however recruiting a replacement mid-year was not an easy task, and it would be Easter until new appointment Tom Powell could join the Resident Sport Assistant team.

Richard Jones

JULIAN M c NAMARA

After a decade of extraordinary service, we bade a fond farewell at Easter to Julian McNamara, whose tenure as Director of Music has left an indelible mark on the musical life of Downside.

Julian was Director of Music at St Edward’s School, Oxford and at the Woodcote Oratory School, before coming to Downside as Director of Music, Organist and Master of the Schola Cantorum in 2015.

Julian brought not only a deep passion for choral music but also a unique blend of wit, warmth, and wisdom to the school. His rehearsals were as much about laughter as they were about legato, and his quirky turns of phrase - equal parts eccentric and endearingwill echo in the Petre Cloister for years to come. As a committed Catholic, he used his deep understanding of the liturgy to enhance services with appropriate musical offerings be it major choral and orchestral forces, more intimate chamber choirs, small vocal groups or acapella plainsong. He knew how to get the best out of the performers and always had just the right piece for the occasion. When let loose on the mighty organ in the Abbey Church he would add in appropriate registrations and sounds to match the words of the hymn, be it birdsong, coffins opening or triumphant fanfares.

Under his direction, the Schola Cantorum continued to flourish. He inspired generations of pupils to lift their voices in harmony, to appreciate the sacred beauty of polyphony, and to find joy in the discipline of music-making.

Whether preparing for a major liturgical feast or a Sunday Mass, Julian approached every note with reverence and joy.

During his time as Director of Music Julian oversaw the move from Breakspear to the newly refurbished O’Flaherty Music School, accompanied countless pupils’ musical performances and exams, prepared young musicians for the academic rigour of musical study in higher education and enabled pupils to follow their musical passions. Whilst primarily a keyboard specialist, he also turned his hand to just about any other instrument where there was a gap in the current orchestras and bands be it viola, saxophone, trombone or tuba. He sadly left before he could begin bagpipe lessons.

He was always keen to support all drama productions, be it as MD for West Side Story, part of the orchestral pit party or chaperone of visiting young children in Fagin’s gang. Many a live performance was lifted by the sounds of his loud unmistakable laughter enlivening both actors and audience.

Away from Downside he continued to enjoy, and I am sure will continue to do so in his retirement, a varied musical life as an organist, conductor, composer, arranger and ABRSM examiner.

Julian’s legacy is not only in the music performed, but in the community he built—one where every pupil felt valued, every voice had a place, and every rehearsal and lesson was a chance to grow.

Retirement plans include the 500-mile Camino Frances, crewing a tall ship, and learning the rest of the complete organ works of JS Bach!

We thank him for his unwavering dedication, his musical brilliance, and his irrepressible humour. Downside is quieter without him—but infinitely richer for his time here.

Karen Randall, Director of Performing Arts

JESS NEWMAN

Jess Newman joined Downside in October 2018 as Development Officer, and her warmth, professionalism, and drive were immediately evident. It was therefore an easy decision to invite Jess to step up to lead the Department when the opportunity became available in 2020, and she took on the role of Manager and soon after Director of Development with characteristic grace and determination.

In each of her roles Jess gave truly outstanding service to Downside. Amidst a period of considerable change, she was a constant source of creativity, positivity, and encouragement. Her ability to inspire confidence and forge genuine, lasting connections with Old Gregorians and the wider Downside community was truly exceptional and she earned universal admiration and affection. Her innovations brought new energy whilst always respecting and building on the history and culture of Downside. She always had the ability to take people with her and it was no accident that whatever she organised was embraced enthusiastically by all.

Jess was a joy to work with—resourceful, generous, and always ready to lift those around her. She had a rare ability to remain calm whatever the situation and see the funny side, even when those around her might be in danger of losing their heads. She will be greatly missed by colleagues, parents, Old Gregorians and all connected to Downside. Jess united all these diverse constituents wonderfully well in the Downside Association, which flourished during her time. We thank her for everything she contributed and wish her every success and happiness in the future. She will continue to be held in deep affection by everyone with any connection to Downside.

Andrew Hobbs, Head

CLAIRE PARR

Some may have a sense of ‘déjà vu’ as they read this, but on this occasion you can trust your senses. Claire was Downside’s first Human Resources Manager some years ago so this is a second farewell to her after her more recent spell as Director of HR. Her time with us may have been relatively short this time but Claire’s impact was once again enormously positive.

Claire’s role at Downside touched every part of school life. Whether she was helping to welcome new staff, supporting colleagues through challenges, or offering advice to those with leadership responsibility, Claire brought clarity, kindness, and a steady hand to everything she did. Her presence was calm and reassuring amidst challenges and change when it was required.

Her collaborative spirit and considered ideas were hugely appreciated by colleagues across the School. Claire’s ability to balance the needs of the broader community with genuine care for individuals made her a valued and trusted colleague.

We thank Claire for her outstanding contribution to Downside and wish her every success and happiness in the future. She leaves with our warmest gratitude.

IAN RAMSDEN

It’s a real privilege – and frankly, a bit of a challenge – to try and sum up and convey what Ian has meant to this school. Especially as anyone who has heard Ian speak at Hymn Practice will know what a talent for public speaking he has: the ability to speak with honesty, clarity, and without performance – just integrity. A tough act to follow, so I shan’t attempt to. But it feels fitting, and honestly a bit reassuring, to be talking about someone who not only wouldn’t mind if I’d asked ChatGPT to help me write

Andrew Hobbs, Head

this Valete… but would’ve probably actively encouraged me to do so!

So where do I begin? It’s a strange feeling saying goodbye to someone who has not only been a constant presence in the School community over the last 8 years, but also someone with whom I started this journey at Downside. Ian and I joined the school at the same time, and I quickly realised that one of his closest friends and former colleagues had been my tutoring mentor during teacher training. From the beginning, Ian brought far more than subject knowledge. He brought vision. He was instrumental in establishing both GCSE and A-level Computer Science here – not just as options on a curriculum, but as exciting, relevant, and truly inclusive subjects. He’s worked hard to make sure that pupils of all genders and abilities have felt encouraged to step into what could be seen as quite a daunting field of study.

But Ian’s impact doesn’t stop at the classroom door. Anyone who’s heard one of his weekly tutor notices in briefing knows just how seriously he takes his commitment to his tutees. As someone who always sees the person first, and the grades second, he was a steady, compassionate presence in the Smythe House team until this year, when he stepped down to take a well-earned break from the role.

And let’s not forget The Edukaters. Ian has been the glue of the rhythm section, always present with a guitar in hand, providing some much-needed rhythm and the occasional backing vocal – albeit without a mic! But behind the guitar and the ‘self-confessed geek’ persona lies something deeper. I remember the time a former pupil from his previous school once wrote to him out of the blue about what it meant to find a place to belong in the co-curricular club he had established there. A place where her interests, her voice, her identity were not only accepted, but celebrated. That’s what Ian created for many pupils at Downside – and nowhere more so than through the St Isidore Society, a space

where pupils could come together, share their passions, and feel truly seen. So many pupils will remember this legacy of inclusion and belonging long after they leave Downside.

However, his impact isn’t limited to pupils –many of his friends and colleagues have also felt it keenly. Speaking to others about Ian, I realised that it’s the simple things that people will miss about him, such as chatting with him on Monday and Friday mornings in his usual spot by the door at briefing. One colleague in particular credits Ian with helping to bring out their inner geek – and, more importantly, making that feel completely OK. It simply won’t feel the same without him around.

I can’t count the number of conversations I’ve had with Ian that began, “Is it just me…?” – usually followed by something thoughtful, wry, and full of insight from him. That deadpan humour, paired with his care and depth, is something I will really miss. In fact, I know I’m not the only one who appreciated Ian’s ability to listen without judgement and provide cake, bread and good coffee when it was needed. You really should think about opening that café, Ian. So, what will Ian leave behind? He’ll leave behind a Computer Science department transformed and ready to move forward. A school where more young people – of all kinds –feel they can belong. A rhythm section in search of a new groove. A society that still gathers to geek out and feels safe doing so. And a Common Room that will feel just a little emptier without his thoughtful voice, dry humour, and the sense of friendship he quietly brought to so many.

Catherine Dietrich

CHRIS STOWELL

When Chris applied for the vacancy for teacher of RS in February 2021, having worked at the outstanding St Bonaventure’s Catholic school in the east end of London, it was those halcyon

days of online lessons and COVID,. Chris wrote on his covering letter that the job advert ‘filled him with nervous excitement.’ This line was my first encounter with Chris and his nervous excitement, something that, remarkably, he pretty much managed to sustain over the past four years. His interests listed included making an active faith life a priority, playing duplicate bridge and playing the flute. In his time at Downside it is certainly the case that Chris has thrown himself into everything he has done, including playing duplicate Bridge by setting up a Bridge club, playing the flute in the CCF band, as well as the trombone in the staff band, running a gardening group, going over the readings for Mass, and making an active faith life a priority by successfully pushing for a renewed Sodality of our Lady and recital of the Rosary, something that culminated for the past two years in a Marian procession for the local parish. Chris was also an excellent tutor in Powell, showing real care and understanding of the boys. He was always an advocate for them going well beyond his normal responsibilities and they respected him for this. Chris is now going on to be a HoD in a girls’ school in Sussex, Mayfield, with his young and growing family. He taught his first A Level paper at Downside in the New Testament with real zeal, and his results were excellent. His work ethic which he brought from London never left him, and he always had a line of thought that he could defend vigorously. He was always interesting company and utterly honest in his approach. In short, Chris was a man of his word and a man of faith and I am very glad that he was a member of the RS department for the past four years. I shall miss him.

ASHLEY WILLIAMS

It’s with heartfelt appreciation that we say goodbye to Ashley Williams, our part-time receptionist and a truly lovely lady. Ashley brought warmth, kindness, and a smile to every shift. She always had time for everyonewhether it was a friendly chat, a helping hand, or simply being a calm and welcoming presence at the front desk.

Her ability to make people feel seen and valued made a lasting impression on colleagues, parents, and pupils alike. Ashley’s dedication, grace, and gentle humour will be much missed

Though her time with us was part-time, her impact was full-time and far-reaching. We wish her all the very best in whatever comes next and hope she knows how much she meant to all of us.

Thank you, Ashley - you’ll always be part of our team.

Hugh Walters

Suzanne Faloon

“Off to write a new chapter”

Retiring Head, Andrew Hobbs, Downside School, Sep 2018 - July 2025

Cover image: Timothy Radcliffe (S63)

OG Retreat, Downside Sixth Form Centre

OG Dinner, Warsaw

North Dorset Dinner

2005 Reunion, Downside

Over 60s lunch, Bath

Curry & Quiz, Downside Sixth Form Centre

FROM THE PRESIDENT

A message from Ken Beedle (R73)

As I come to the end of my second year as President of St Gregory’s Society, it has been encouraging to see the Society continuing to thrive so well. The wide range and ever-expanding number of Society events that have been held in the UK and around the world, all aimed at making it possible for OGs to keep in contact with one another and building community, has been hugely impressive. My thanks go to the Downside Development Office for all their efforts and to OGs for their support in helping organise and in attending these events. It wouldn’t be possible without them!

Hospitality and socialising are very much at the heart of being an OG and the Society has had many gatherings and events this year - more than 25 - and this number is set to grow next year. I have enjoyed attending many of these and to meeting numerous OGs. These are particularly welcome opportunities to hear feedback and new ideas about how we can do more to engage effectively with all generations, encourage greater participation in our activities, and better support the School.

An important objective for the coming year will be for the Society to strengthen its ties with the School and to play its part in supporting the School, particularly its admission activities, during these challenging times for independent schools.

I am pleased to say that the Society was able to make a donation to the School towards the oak furniture commissioned for the new Sixth Form Centre in what was formerly the monks’ refectory. And Tony Bueno (C58) also very generously donated a full-size billiard table for use in the Sixth Form Centre. This important new facility, which has made such a difference for the students in the Sixth Form, was formally opened by the Bishop of Clifton, the Rt Rev Bosco MacDonald in December 2024.

More recently in May this year the Society pledged a substantial donation to the School to help support its short-term needs and longer-term efforts, as outlined in the Chair of Governor’s letter of 24 March to parents and OGs, to purchase the freehold of the School buildings to enable it to invest in securing the future of the School.

The Annual St Gregory’s Society London Drinks and Dinner in November 2024 was held once again in the convivial surroundings of the East India Club bringing together more than 80 OGs. A wide range of year groups was at the dinner with good representation from 2023/2024 leavers as well as those from the 1970s. We were very pleased to see Michael Daly (S49) the most senior OG attending, and John Scanlan (S54) who was celebrating his 70th year since leaving Downside! This year we will be moving the dinner to the Royal Air Force Club in Piccadilly and hope to encourage more OGs to attend.

Also held in London was the Annual Carol Service in December at the Church of Our Most Holy Redeemer and St Thomas More in Chelsea. This was very well attended.

Other OG dinners held this year were in: Dublin (Triennial Dinner) organised by Vincent Barrett (Ra67), Melbourne organised by Peter Acton (B70), Singapore organised by Hugo Monro (S05), Bangkok organised by Gus MacKay (U69) and Anthony Liddiard (R71), and Warsaw organised by Igor Korczagin (S95) and Rafal Milczarski (S95). The Warsaw dinner was linked with a School admissions event. There was also a drinks and dinner gathering at the Grosvenor Arms pub in Hindon for those local OGs in North Dorset, and an over-60s lunch in Bath. Both were very well attended and enjoyed by all, and we look forward to repeating this next year and to holding more local gatherings.

The Triennial Madrid Dinner will be held later this year in October.

There have been many OGs coming back to visit Downside in the past year and all are warmly welcomed; these included Oliver Pawle (U68) who gave an inspiring career talk to Sixth Formers, Matt Walters (B18) who was a special guest at the Music Scholar’s Dinner and gave an organ recital in the Abbey Church, and Matthew Watts (S00) who gave a presentation on AI: Transforming Business Innovation, as part of the School’s Business Brunch programme. And this summer OGs and their families gathered at Downside for a 20-year reunion organised by Ollie Mellotte (S05). This coincided with the Downside 1st XI cricket team playing against the Downside Wanderers.

It was also a year for well-deserved congratulations as Fr Timothy Radcliffe (S63) was appointed Cardinal by the late Pope Francis in December.

I much enjoyed attending the Downside Prize Day in June and presenting on behalf of St Gregory’s

Society the 2025 Old Gregorian Medal. This year it was decided to award medals to two OGs; Clare Hunter (C11) in recognition of her dedication and many contributions to the charity Mary’s Meals and to Ken Thompson (Ra65) in recognition of his achievements in the art of sculpture and stone carving over many years and the numerous works that he has created which have brought distinction to Christian life.

Looking to the future, the Society has made good progress with its initiative to collaborate with other Benedictine alumni societies. More than 50 alumni from Benedictine schools, including Ampleforth, Worth, Downside and Belmont, gathered together on Friday 11 July to celebrate jointly the Feast Day of St Benedict, Patron of Europe, at a Mass held in the beautiful Church of Notre Dame de France near Leicester Square in London. It was a small beginning and provided a great opportunity for all who attended to meet and reconnect with fellow alumni, reflect, and begin building a collaborative network.

Our thanks go to Abbot Christopher Jamison, Abbot President of the English Benedictine Congregation for presiding over this Mass and giving the homily, and to Abbot Brendan Thomas from Belmont Abbey who concelebrated Mass. And thanks too to Edward Tambling (B06) who played the organ. We hope that this will be the first of many such gatherings.

One of the highlights this year was the OG Retreat at Downside. This was a one-day event held on 27th April. The day began with Solemn Mass in the Abbey Church celebrated by Fr Michael Patey and included talks by Dom Leo Maidlow Davis on Sanctity, and Dom Michael Clothier, on Prayer, and Lectio Divina by Javi Rojas Bontempi. We are hoping to expand the retreat next year.

The Society continues to support the School’s OMV Lourdes Pilgrimage, now in its 51st year since it was first organised under the auspices of the Knights of Malta. In July, four Downside pupils took part in the pilgrimage alongside many OGs and other volunteers.

Our relationship with the Downside Fisher Youth Club in Bermondsey remains strong and active and we are pleased to be able to hold some of our St Gregory’s Society Council meetings at the Club. We are grateful to the Club’s chairman OG Robert Coke (S90) for letting us use their facilities.

The sporting societies play an important part in nurturing our OG community and we are pleased to provide support to OG sporting clubs including the Downside Wanderers Cricket Club, the OG Golfing Society (OGGS) and the OG Football Club. I much enjoyed attending the OGGS centenary lunch held in March at Denham Golf Club. I am grateful to Stephen Reeve-Tucker (R69), President of the OGGS, for inviting me.

The 148th Annual General Meeting of St Gregory’s Society was held at Downside on 21st June and two new members were elected to the Council; Alice MacGinnis (I09) and William Brooke (R19).

I would like to thank all those who work so hard to make St Gregory’s Society the strong

community that it is: Stephen Stokes (C78) for all he does in providing support and a listening ear for OGs who are struggling with the trials and difficulties of life; and those in the Development Office, Jess Newman, Director of Development, and more recently Melanie Woods, Marketing and Development Manager. Jess Newman decided to move on from her role in the Development Office to a new opportunity and left Downside in April. We wish her every success. And we welcome Melanie Woods who has taken over this role. We are grateful for all the help and support that the Development Office gives to the Society and the Council throughout the year.

Finally, on behalf of St Gregory’s Society, I would like pay tribute to the Head, Andrew Hobbs, and to wish him well on his retirement after having served the School for 7 years as Head and 10 years before that as Deputy Head. His leadership and commitment to the School has been exemplary and St Gregory’s Society has much appreciated the strong relationship that has been nurtured between the Society and the School and the support that he has always given.

Ken Beedle (R73)

ST GREGORY’S SOCIETY 2024/25

Patron

Abbot Nicholas Wetz

Chaplain

Dom Leo Maidlow Davis (B72)

President Ken Beedle (R73)

Hon. Treasurer

Martin Waller (Ra72)

Elected Councillors

Jane Adamson (S82)

William Brooke (R19)

Hannah Field (I14)

Elena McFarlane (I13)

Alice MacGinnis (I09)

Vice-Presidents

Jonathan Grew (C77)

Geoffrey Jaques (B59)

Ian Norrington (B54)

Rupert Orchard (R74)

Mary Jane Platt (Ra76)

John Scanlan (S54)

Mark Steed (C71)

Simon Westlake (S81)

Honorary Vice-Presidents

Vincent Barrett (Ra87) - Ireland

David Briffa (Ra75) – Malta

John Churchill (B84) – USA East

Igor Korczagin (S95)- Poland

Philip Morris (R79)- France

Gaizka Ortuzar (S53) - Spain

James Scanlan (S86) – Spain

John Ludlow (C82), Ken Beedle (R73), Mary Jane Platt (Ra76), Rupert Orchard (R74)

DOWNSIDE FISHER YOUTH GROUP

The major news this year is that due to the generosity of a foundation connected to an OG, we have been able to refurbish our pool and changing rooms at a cost of over £400,000. It was a very big project for us but long overdue. We run a swim school and have a popular kayaking club. We hope to expand the offering of the pool in the next few months.

45.6% of residents in Southwark are classified as deprived and we exist to give those young people a chance, as we have all had. Over 400 come to our youth club every month and we have a wide range of facilities and classes. We are hoping to add access to counselling this year as well as an education in personal finance.

41 young people went on overnight trips with

our youth team, including 13 on a week’s sailing camp. This time together allows our youth staff to unearth talents in the young people as well as discerning issues that we can help with - or refer to others.

Fisher Boxing continues to produce boxers that fight at national level. The club manages to reach some hard cases through boxing and introduce people to the discipline and personal achievements that sport is able to give.

If you are able to support us as a trustee or funder we would love to hear from you. Please also remember us in your will.

Robert Coke (S90) Chair

SPORTS REPORTS

Downside, and Old Gregorian, Golf

For the mere mortal, golf is combat against a host of demons, most of which are resident in the player’s alleged brain, and are ably supplemented by fiendishly designed courses, with their bunkers, a bit of rough and so on.

Thankfully, there is a counterpoint to this masochistic torture, in the form of marvellous camaraderie, consistently beautiful surroundings, splendid courses, excellent lunches, prizes for any level of golfer, enduring friendships, and fresh air and fun.

So what’s not to like?

The Old Gregorian Golfing Society has had a bumper year, so far, blessed by fabulous weather, if not exactly by success in matches. We celebrated our Centenary with a splendid Luncheon at Denham Golf Club, and then returned a few weeks later for the well-attended Spring Meeting - a wonderful lunch bookended by two rounds of challenging golf.

In the meantime, we (OK, the more accomplished golfers among us) had competed in the Halford Hewitt, a team competition held for superlative golfers, former pupils of many public schools, at the very testing courses on the Kent Coast. We

were eliminated in the first round. Now, you’d have thought that watching golf was akin to watching paint dry, but the contest was in fact extraordinarily exciting, and we lost by the narrowest of margins after extra time.

Despite valiant efforts we then failed to advance in the qualifying round for the Grafton Morrish, at Denham (again) and were knocked out in the Russell Bowl at Royal Ashdown Forest (Pooh and Piglet territory).

We narrowly lost the match against Piltdown, largely as a result of making over-generous allowances for our opposition’s play.

And so, to school, for the Summer Meeting in June, where we invited a select band of school golfers to play with us at Mendip, and were entertained to a splendid supper in what used to be the Smythe refectory. The next day we repaired to the north Somerset coast, at Burnham & Berrow for two rounds of golf on that staggeringly wonderful course, in warm sunshine. A week later they hosted final qualifying for The Open, so it was in excellent condition. We have a few matches left in the year, at New Zealand (rather oddly in Surrey), and with the school in October at Mendip, as well as the autumn meeting at Huntercombe, on the escarpment looking out over the plain towards Oxford.

In the meantime, as for the school, since September 2019, when the Director of Sport, Mr Richard Jones, launched a new Golf Performance and Development programme, more than 100 pupils have participated in weekly practice, developing their game to such an extent that the school could enter Regional competitions again…

In the 2024/25 season the school reached the South West Regional Finals, defeated Sherborne, King’s Taunton and King’s Bruton (twice), and entered multiple pupils for the Somerset schools competition. The school’s current golf captain Rosie won the

County competition and competed well at the European Junior Open and numerous national level amateur events.

Mr Jones is organising an inaugural OG golf day, for recent leavers and school players, at Orchardleigh on Saturday 6 September, and this is being supported by the OGGS.

The OGGS are always on the lookout for new blood and if you think you might enjoy convivial company, beautiful environments, excellent craic and, oh yes, a bit of golf - I am living testament to the fact that all levels of expertise are welcomeplease let me know. I can assure you; you will be made most welcome.

Stephen Reeve-Tucker (R69), President, OGGS

Downside Wanderers Cricket Club Secretary’s Report 2025

Played 9, Won 3, Lost 6, Cancelled 4.

The season started with a tough ask, an away Cricketer Cup fixture at Marlborough College. The day got immediately tougher, with Marlborough winning the toss and batting first on a baking hot day, hitting over 421-7 off 50 overs. After tea, the Wanderers lost four early wickets leaving us well behind the game. The middle order

did steady the ship for a period, but we were still bowled out for 213, leaving us 208 runs short.

Our first victory of the season came at Roehampton, ably skippered by Ollie Lombard. Roehampton batted first and posted 205; Sam Harris was the pick of the bowlers despite not picking up a wicket. After tea, James Lombard, for the first time in his cricketing career opened the batting, finishing on 27. Sadly, we couldn’t back it up at Warnford the following weekend, with the Hampshire Hogs winning by 9 wickets; however, Will Church hit an excellent 66 and looked classy in the process.

The Hurlingham was another tough day at the office. On a pitch offering very little for the bowlers, Louis Hanson produced an outstanding spell of controlled off-spin, finishing with superb figures of 4–77 off 18. Another notable contribution came from Seb Norris, who bowled with accuracy and discipline to take 2–36 off 10. The Hurlingham eventually declared on 291–8. Unfortunately, the Wanderers batting line up didn’t show up and fell 211 runs short.

Back down to school, for a closely fought victory that came down to the final over. The Wanderers were restricted to 166 all out, with Hansom hitting 56 not out - a captain’s knock. Superb bowling then came from Archie Smellie (R23) and the Wanderers just held the school off winning by 3 runs. It was a young Wanderer side with six debuts for recent school leavers - a promising new group of members.

Next, our Benedictine rivals the Old Amplefordians. With only 9 players, Luke Marjason skippered the side brilliantly, took three wickets and finished his innings on 69… well played. Joe Mahon and Lawrie Graham also scored nicely with 45 and 60. The Wanderers won by 23 runs.

The Emeriti Phillips Cup tournament saw the Wanderers draw the Old Priorians for the first round match, followed by a 3rd place play off against the Old Amplefordians. Luke Marjason and Alex Lowe produced some strong middle-order power hitting against the Old Priorians, but we still lost by 4 wickets. Sadly, two wins in two against the OAs was a bridge too far, with the Wanderers

batting first and slumping to 83 all out. The OAs finished with a comfortable 8-wicket victory.

On a warm July Sunday, Anthony Murray skippered a somewhat jaded Wanderers side at Winchester. It was a close loss with special mentions to Hugo Monroe for four wickets and almost a half century, and Anthony Pontifex for donning his pads as a last minute call up - he remains an inspiration!

Barnes turned out to be the last fixture of the season, which sadly we lost by 8 wickets. Lawrie Graham was in the runs again with 50, and he took a great catch in the slips off Alex Lowe’s lovely outswing. Andy Byett supported him with 28, but no one else made it into double digits. James Lombard hung around, hitting a Jack Leach style 2 runs off 40 balls (with his 2 coming off the 36th ball). Lombard also ended up with bowling figures of 1-1 off 1.

The Wanderers 2025 season will not be known as a classic; 4 matches cancelled and a mixed bag of results. In May we received the sad news that the legend, Brad Bing, died after a battle with cancer. Brad inspired so many Wanderers through his passion for the game of cricket - he will be sorely missed by us and by the wider cricket community. May he rest in peace.

At the end of the season, Ponti was notified that the Wanderers tenure in the Cricketer Cup had come to an end, at least for now. Tim Elliot, the Chair of the Cricketer Cup, explained: this decision was reached after a lengthy discussion which

focused on the competition striving for the highest playing standards. Following correspondence on this topic between the competition and your club ahead of the 2023 season the committee has remained focused on your performances and as you know you have not managed to win a game since that time, nor materially increase your competitiveness.

It is undoubtedly sad news. However, the reality is that Downside is no longer producing enough quality cricketers for the Wanderers to have a large enough crop of new members to be competitive against the best cricket playing schools in England. The committee have a decision to make regarding our participation in the Cricketer Trophy, another competition that will be of a high standard.

So not the season we wanted. But the Downside Wanderers remains a source of great joy to its members and its wider circle of friends. Next year, we have a tour to Menorca in June, and the chance to enter the Cricketer Trophy, for a new chapter of competitive cricket, if we so choose.

Hugh Jennings, Hon Secretary

Cancelled Matches:

• Inter-club - rained off

• Hartley Wintney - opposition’s error on dates

• Brook - we couldn’t raise a side - bank holiday

• North Middlesex - rained off

ANNOUNCEMENTS

BIRTHS

Blair Sasada (B08), a daughter, Dorothea Mariella Rose Sasada, on 10th February 2023

James Grew (C/R06), a daughter, Claudia Grew, on 18th October 2023

Benedict Carter (B01), a son, Raphael Bryan Hughe Carter, on 7th November 2023

George Quinn (C06), a son, Nicolas Zaragoza-Quinn, on 16th November 2023

Ivo MacGreevy (R06), a daughter, Stella MacGreevy, on 27th March 2024

Jan Czerbak (B06), a daughter, Krystyna Czerbak, on 19th March 2024

Flora Nicholson (née Drummond-Smith) (I10), a daughter, Cressida Nicholson, in April 2024

Manuel Otero-Gudino (R97), a daughter, Silvia Otero-Gudino, on 5th June 2024

David Fox (Ra74), a granddaughter, Zoe Pearl Fox on 8th November 2024 in Durham, North Carolina, USA. Matthew was also born in 2024.

Alex Archibald (R06), a son, Ruairidh Alexander Scott Archibald

Henry Hudson-Evans (R06), a daughter, Tiggy Rose Hudson-Evans

Alexandra du Plessis (nee Gushurst-Moore) (C10), a son, Atlas Florian du Plessis on 23rd June 2025

Richard Grew (R13), a son, Felix James Macdonald Grew on 1st August 2025

ENGAGEMENT

Charles Ormerod (S12) to Hannah Howitt

MARRIAGES

Scott Petri (S97) to Larua Orcutt on 14th September 2024

Katy Jane Nannestad (I09) to William Edwin Charles Bromfield on 31st December 2024

Scott Petri (S97) to Larua Orcutt

Katy Jane Bromfield & William Edwin Charles Bromfield

DEATHS

R.J.Glover (U72) on Thursday 5th September 2024, aged 69

D. A. McGarvey (S57) in October 2024, aged 86

A. C. Berry (Ra68) on Tuesday 1st October 2024, aged 73

J. F. Pavry (C68) on Wednesday 9th October 2024, aged 73

J. R. Joynson (C49) on Tuesday 17th September 2024, aged 92

T. A. Coghlan (U63) on Sunday 17th November 2024, aged 79

H. P. Curtis (R56) on Wednesday 14th August 2024, aged 86

J. H. Meredith (Ra69) on Sunday 29th October 223, aged 72

A. F. Bicknell (R86) on Sunday 1st December 2024, aged 56

L. Rospigliosi (C47) on Thursday 21st November 2024

M. Perceval (B53) on Sunday 17th November 2024, aged 88

C. V. J. McNaught-Davis (Ra68) on Sunday 22nd December 2024, aged 74

R. C. J. Dick (C53) on Monday 9th December 2024, aged 89

P. F. Loftus (Ra66) on Wednesday 24th December 2024, aged 74

T. J. D. Allott (C51) on Sunday 15th December 2024, aged 90

D. A. Bulfield (HonOG) in January 2025

J. W. Hatch (R88) on 23rd February 2025, aged 54

H.G. Rooney (R45) on 16th August 2020, aged 94

N. E. A. Cameron (Ra62) on 16th February 2025, aged 80

D. Llewellyn Smith (B72) on 19th March 2025, aged 69

D.J. Allsop (B71) on 5th March 2025, aged 70

J.P. Raad (S78) in 2024, aged 66

N. Kynaston (C58) on 26th March 2025, aged 83

S. MacLachlan (C52) on 17th April 2025, aged 90

R. Humphry (Ra66) on 25th April 2025, aged 77

J.A.D. Clinch (R49) on 19th April 2025, aged 93

A.W. Gooda (B55) on 20th May 2025, aged 88

K.P. Andrews (S56) on 28th February 2025, aged 85

J.L.A. Majendie (R51) on 3rd March 2025, aged 92

M.W.d’A Walton (Ra61) on 4th June 2025, aged 81

M Peploe (C60) on 27th June 2025, aged 82

J.F. Dillon (U62) on 2nd July 2025, aged 81

P.J.N. Prideaux-Brune (B62) on 10th July 2025, aged 80

E.S. Liddell (B79) on 17th August 2025, aged 63

J.E. Douglas (S62) on 15th August 2025, aged 81

L. Kelly (C50) on 23rd July 2025, aged 92

P.L. Wright (C53) on 11th August 2025, aged 89

J.L. Cameron (B51) on 14th September 2025, aged 92

OBITUARIES

TIM AMBLER (B55)

1937 - 2024

If asked to describe himself in just one word, Tim would have said “Lucky”; he even titled his autobiography “The Lucky Marketeer”. He claimed that his was the lucky generation. As he put it, they didn’t have to fight in the Great Wars, benefited from free university education, could get jobs easily, had great company pensions and rode the property escalator onwards and upwards. And, of course, he was lucky to meet and marry Katie and to have had so many friends who have gathered here today to bid him farewell.

Tim would have said “Lucky”. Others would use different words to describe him. I’ll pause a moment for you to consider what word you would use…

…I’m sure that you’ve come up with words such as “Charming”, “Kind”, “Humorous”, “Astute”, “Raconteur” and many more, some of which I will use later. That was Tim: there were as many facets to his character as on a three penny bit or a diamond, brilliant cut, of course, with a sparkle on every facet. He was so many things to so many people that doing justice to this larger than life character is going to be hard. Keeping it brief is wellnigh impossible, but I will try to make it entertaining, as Tim would have done. “Make it fun”, said Katie, so I will. Here goes…

Convention says that eulogies begin at the beginning, but Tim could be unconventional so I will be too, though I will bear in mind that this is a eulogy, and not a best man’s speech. If I leave anything out, I refer you to “The Lucky Marketeer” to fill in the gaps.

Tim’s achievements were enormous, but he was modest. When I heard that he had planned his own funeral, I assumed that he had penned the eulogy too, but no: Tim was too modest for that.

Tim was a maverick and a marketing Top Gun.

Not that he actually flew fighter jets like Tom Cruise, but he led an adventurous life; he travelled widely, and crossed the Atlantic supersonically many times in Concorde as well as more slowly on the first Queen Mary. In Nigeria he travelled by dugout canoe in crocodile-infested waters.

Tim was brilliant. He was in the scholarship set at Downside. From there he moved on, after National Service, with an exhibition to St John’s College, Oxford. He claimed to have learned “the art of the skive” while on National Service and had a thoroughly enjoyable time at Oxford, where his antics could have been penned by P G Wodehouse. His comment that, “Being seen as intelligent is far more useful than being intelligent” may be true, but underplays his own hand. He gained a scholarship to the Sloane School of Management at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, completing a Masters degree there in one year instead of two. In his fifties, Tim began a new career in academia, as a senior lecturer at the London Business School for over twenty years. He was a visiting professor at Columbia University, taking the opportunity to learn to rollerblade in Central Park. He became a Senior Fellow of the Adam Smith Institute, which published many of his reports and articles, including his last book, Shrinking Whitehall, in 2022.

Marketing grabbed Tim’s interest at an early age, when he discovered the merit of purchasing sweet tokens at the beginning of term and selling them at the end of it. During university summer holidays, Tim was engaged by MI6, for which his father worked, to subvert Russian ideological marketing at the World Festival of Youth. But it was at the Sloane Business School that Tim had his Road to Damascus conversion from accountancy to marketing, after which he never looked back. As he put it, “Accountancy was my life, until I discovered Smirnoff.” Tim was responsible for the marketing

success of brands such as Archers, Bailey’s, Croft Original and Malibu. I suppose that you could mix those as a cocktail and call it a Lucky Marketeer, but I don’t recommend it. When the Advertising Standards Agency challenged the marketing assertion that “The French Adore Piat d’Or”, Tim was able to prove that it was one of the highest selling wine brands in France, but he didn’t tell the agency that 90% of those sales were in the channel ports, to the British on booze cruises.

Marketing didn’t always go smoothly and a major promotion of Argentine wine starting on the day that Argentina invaded the Falklands failed spectacularly: the off-licence chain Peter Dominic counted the bottles all out and then counted them all back in again. The directors of the company were drinking Argentine wine for years afterwards.

Born in Singapore, Tim returned there with his parents at the age of twelve and was at school at the Raffles Institution until he went to Downside. He returned to Singapore on National Service. Alas, he didn’t get into the Hussars, as the medical officer deemed that his girth was incompatible with the hatch size of a tank. However, the Service Corps had its benefits, one being his driving licence. Tim obtained this by the simple expedient of adding his name to the list of those being issued with army licences; he never did pass a driving test and the validity of his licence was only questioned when he used it to drive a bus to Turkey. While in Singapore he became a member of the prestigious Tanglin Club, but getting to it involved the purloining of military vehicles and Tim was summoned to see the commanding officer; instead of the expected dressing down, the CO wanted Tim to propose him as a member.

Downside was where Tim learned about fine food and wine - not, of course, from the school’s kitchen and cellars, but from illicit excursions to grand restaurants with the Lotos Eaters, a group of fellow pupil bon viveurs. A lifetime in the wine trade followed, and Tim learned the art of the long lunch early in his career. It was a lucky choice of the right sherry that landed him his first job with Justerini and Brooks. He worked his way up the ladder

with its parent company, International Distillers and Vintners, to become its joint Global Managing Director.

Downside introduced Tim to snooker and bridge, the latter being a warm and dry alternative to soccer at school and a great comfort to him in later life as one activity that he was able to pursue to the end. His mathematical ability and intelligence made him a formidable opponent, and partner. He was a golfer, though never a great one. Cricket, as a spectator at Lord’s or the Oval, was another abiding passion and the recent third test at Edgbaston helped him to while away the time whilst bedridden. Tim enjoyed sailing on the Broads and in Blakeney Harbour, though on at least one occasion “Bottoms Up” described the boat, not his glass. Tim’s faith was of supreme importance to him. Instructed in the Catholic faith at his first prep school, his faith was strengthened at Downside and he was proud of being an Old Gregorian. Fine wines, good food, practical jokes, bridge, music and the Catholic faith were joys in his future life that, knowingly or unknowingly, Downside nurtured.

Music was one of Tim’s passions. He sang at school, joined the St John’s College choir, sang with the University choir, and even once with the visiting Royal Opera Company in the chorus of Aida. Later he was to sing in a choir at the Royal Albert Hall. His love of opera, shared by Katie, lasted the rest of his life, though he could not abide ballet. Never one to aim low, Tim sponsored Sir Peter Maxwell Davies to write a memorial Mass for his parents. After Tim’s impromptu rendition of Caro mio ben at a party, one of the guests was heard to comment, “I used to like that song.” Beyoncé got a better reception when she sang the same piece, though not at the same party.

In his retirement, Tim became deputy organist at St Peter’s Church in Blakeney, despite being unable to play the organ, and he joined both the Kelling Singers and the Iceni Choir. When he decided to approach the organist of Westminster Cathedral for lessons in composition, Katie said, “You can’t do that.” “I don’t see why not”, Tim replied, and did. At one stage he

used the same composition textbook of 1725 studied by Mozart, though he admits that he struggled with this more than Mozart did. Perseverance, and more modern instruction, paid off, and his compositions have been performed in Westminster Cathedral and in other leading venues, most recently in St Nicholas’ Chapel, King’s Lynn just before his death.

Tim didn’t suffer fools gladly, but he was generous and always afforded people the benefit of the doubt; the only people he regarded as fools were those who disagreed with his views, and civil servants.

He was the author of too many papers and books to mention them all here. There are over a hundred of his publications listed on the ResearchGate website, with over ten thousand citations. Of course, he wrote books on marketing and advertising. His book on Doing Business in China ran to three editions. The Chartered Institute of Marketing listed him as one of the top fifty marketing experts worldwide. Deregulation and reducing the number of civil servants were recurring themes in his later publications, but he also wrote on the safeguarding of children, nuclear power and the National Health Service. He advised Government Departments and ministers, often at their own request.

Fun is a word easily overused, though not in Tim’s case; he was witty and was a master of the practical joke. At Oxford, he and a group of friends put up a sign advertising a herd of pedigree cattle outside St Anne’s College. At a Women’s Liberation Front march in the United States, “Liberate Women’s Fronts” was the slogan on his placard, at least till he was evicted from the march. He dressed up as, and passed himself off as, an Anglican archbishop at the Chelsea Arts Club Ball. He was a superb godfather to his many godchildren, asserting that godparents should be subversive and should buy those toys that children covet but parents forbid. Even when doing jury service, Tim found a way to have fun; on Derby day, he arranged a sweepstake amongst the jury, inviting the judge and counsel to participate. Prosecuting counsel won the sweepstake, but lost

the case. Anecdotes about Tim’s exploits abound and I leave it to you to share more of these with each other at the Village Hall later.

The greatest love of Tim’s life was his wife, Katie, to whom he was married for nearly sixty years. He described it as love at first sight on his part, but feared that he wasn’t much of a catch. The wedding took place despite the groom being stopped by a policeman for being drunk in charge of a steamroller the night before. Within the last few weeks of his life, Tim said to Katie, “Marrying you was the best thing I ever did.” He loved his family, son Gus, daughter-inlaw Viola and grandchildren Helena and Zach.

Having moved to Debden in the early 1970s, Katie and Tim joined the Essex migration to Cley, moving to Swan Lodge in the 1990s. Tim quotes André Simon as saying, “A man dies too young if he leaves any wine in his cellar.” As befits one in his profession, Tim had a fine cellar; he left Swan Lodge and the cellar (but not the remnants of its contents) a couple of years ago, a move that he railed against at the time, but later acknowledged to have been a good thing.

In his later years, Tim immersed himself in much else besides composition and writing for the Adam Smith Institute. He espoused local causes, became Treasurer of a boys’ boxing club, was non-executive director of a brewery and was a leading light in the local Conservative Party.

Precarious at times, Tim’s health fluctuated. Perhaps ironically, a valve replacement and heart fibrillation didn’t stop him setting James Joyce’s poem “This heart that flutters” to music. In the past few years, poor health made it difficult for Tim to do some of the things he loved, but it didn’t stop him trying, sometimes to his family’s frustration. He died at peace with God and at peace with the world, except Whitehall.

It was Tim’s choice to end this service with the Hallelujah chorus from Handel’s Messiah. The same piece was played as he and Katie left another church nearly sixty years ago, and the congregation broke into applause at its conclusion. It would be fitting if we applaud in the same way today.

Tim wrote, “Marketeers are supposed to spread pleasure, make more enjoyable a world that takes itself too seriously.” I’m sure you will agree that he succeeded and that in life, as in marketing, Tim really was a Top Gun.

Written by Michael Arche, provided by Simon Clanmorris (B56)

LT. COLONEL EWEN CAMERON M.B.E. (RA62)

1944 - 2025

To the reader of Ewen’s brief three-line Valette in the 1962 summer edition of the Downside School magazine The Raven, it might have come as a surprise that for someone whose school achievements were so modest – in particular he had only been a corporal in the school CCF - he should have gone on lead such a distinguished military career. He served in the elite Scots Guards for nearly thirty years, including six tours of Northern Ireland with three of them in undercover operations, and then achieving the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, and being awarded an MBE for brilliantly organising the 1992 international Fiftieth Anniversary Commemoration of the Battle of El Alamein.

Ewen was born in Exeter on 25th August 1944 to parents Iona and Archibald, his father then serving as a Commander in the Royal Navy. Ewen was educated at Downside, where his only outstanding achievement was being a member of the school athletics team. On leaving Downside he opted for the army despite only making corporal in the CCF and not going into the navy following in his father’s footsteps. Academically Ewen only managed one A Level in chemistry. But this was then enough for him to pass into Sandhurst, for what was then

a two-year course, where he also completed the parachute course.

Ewen passed out in July 1965 and was posted initially to the Second Battalion of the Scots Guards before moving to the First Battalion, based in Singapore. Here he attended the Jungle Warfare Course before seeing his first active service in jungles of Borneo during the Indonesia – Malaysia confrontation. After that he returned to the Second Battalion now based in Germany, where he served for two years in the BAOR.

In 1974 he began the first of six spells of service in Northern Ireland. Initially he was on the Northern Ireland Training and Advisory Team, before joining special forces to work undercover as a detachment commander. For this he let his hair grow long, together with growing large sideburns. At times he wore a wig that made him resemble George Best. Some of his work was just sitting in pubs, sometimes on his own, listening to what was being said. It was dangerous work, shown by the fate of Amplefordian Captain Robert Nairac GC who was murdered by the IRA in Armagh in 1977, and his body never found.

After a relief tour in Canada, Ewen was back in Northern Ireland in 1978, attached to the Ulster Defense Regiment (UDR), helping with its training. Through this, he met his wife-to-be Fiona, a Northern Irish Protestant, who was a schoolteacher and volunteer in the UDR - although they actually met at a Royal Engineers social event in County Antrim. They were married in dramatic style at the London Guards Chapel on 31st July, 1980, where having come out of the chapel, they were rushed in their full wedding regalia to an airport and flown in a forces plane to Belfast, where the wedding reception was then held.

In 1982 Ewen was back with the First Battalion and posted to Hong Kong, during which time their son James was born. In 1984 they returned to the UK, with Ewen appointed as a major, second in command of the 1st Battalion. In that role during the summer of that year, the regiment led the Trooping of the Colour. Ewen was second

in command of that parade, riding on horseback behind the colonel, ready to take over the parade if anything untoward happen to the Colonel – like in battles of old – but otherwise with little actually to do. Previously Ewen had known nothing about horses and had to be trained by the Household Cavalry for this task, something he did not enjoy. As he rode back down the Mall to Buckingham Palace, in front of a cheering crowd of thousands, Ewen resolved that once he dismounted in the quadrangle inside Buckingham Palace and handed over reins, he would never mount a horse again – a promise to himself that he kept.

In 1987 Ewen was attached to the US army for two years, working in Colorado on plans for moving 16,000 troops to Europe if the Russians invaded. For this he was awarded the US Meritorious Medal. He and his family used the posting to become expert skiers – something Ewen did enjoy.

Ewen was then promoted to Lieutenant Colonel, moving to a desk job in Whitehall, where he was put in charge of organizing ceremonial events. The last of these was the 1992, the Battle of El Alamein Fiftieth Anniversary Commemoration, which was attended by Prime Minister John Major and several other world leaders. Besides liaising with Commonwealth countries that had fought with the British, Ewen also had to do likewise with the representatives of their erstwhile German and Italian enemies. The German team were very cooperative, but the senior Italian officer would not make any decisions without leaving the room to ring back to HQ in Italy. On the third occasion he did so, the leading German officer turned to Ewen in frustration, saying, ‘You see now why we lost the war, can’t you!’ The El Alamein Commemoration was an outstanding feat of organization, for which Ewen was awarded an MBE.

Following that commemoration, Ewen decided to make a new career in civilian life running his own business. He chose a relatively new franchise operation for arranging small business finance. When Ewen applied, there were only two

franchises left, one of which was Warwickshire, which he opted for. This brought him and his family to their new home in Rugby, where he was able to educate his three children as day pupils at Rugby School. He spent fifteen years of hard work trying to make the business work, but with only modest results, before the onset of Alzheimer’s and finally cancer, which together cruelly brought his life to an end.

His funeral in Rugby was well attended, especially by members of the Scots Guards. He leaves a widow and three children and two grandchildren.

Tim Coghlan

TERENCE

COGHLAN KC (U65)

1945 - 2023

Terence Coghlan was amongst the greatest cricketers of his generation at Downside. This was exemplified by the achievement of the 1962 First XI, captained by Mark ‘Harry Heath, in which Terence served with distinction in his first year in that team, and won his colours. The team never lost a match, and according to Harry it was the finest team Downside had produced for many years, and probably ever since - what with the subsequent decline of cricket in the school, being aided by falling pupil numbers.

Terence was born in Dorchester at the very end of WWII. His father Austin (Barlow 1926) was still in the naval volunteer reserve, where he had served on corvettes on the Atlantic convoys since 1942. But since the autumn of 1944, Austin had been seconded to the newly established UNRRAthe United Nations Refugee and Relief Association based in Geneva. His appointment was due to his

language skills – he had read the classic at Balliol, and following his extensive travels in France and German in the pre-war period, he was fluent in French and German. Coupled with that he was also qualified chartered accountant. Austin’s wife Ruby had remained in the UK until late 1947, when not long after the birth of their second son Timothy (Ullathorne 1965) the family was at last able to reunite, renting a flat in a large converted 19th century lakeside villa with its own small beach. Their times in Geneva were often regards by his parents as the happiest days of their lives – now free from wars, rationing, a high taxing Labour government, and also a good income from the important work Austin was performing in resettling so many displaced persons – young and old.

The refugee resettlement work was largely completed by the summer of 1949, and Austin’s appointment was terminated. The family reluctantly had to return to the UK - taking also with them the boys’ new sister Lydia, born in the spring of that year.

On Austin’s return to the UK, and despite his considerable experience, he was unable to find suitable work. He was attracted to South Africa, promoted as ‘the land of opportunity’ and in consequence the family moved there by sea in early 1950, settling in Johannesburg.

In due course the boys were sent to the good Johannesburg Catholic boys’ school, Marist Brothers, Inanda, which had a reputation for sport – especially cricket – where selected boys with perceived talent received extra professional coaching. This for boys aged about eleven included one good net session a week with an all-rounder Middlesex County Cricketer who during the long English winter, came out to play for the Johannesburg team, and also coached in select schools. Terence did well from his coaching and became both a batsman and bowler, his batting average being the best in his year.

The move to South Africa proved to have mixed success, so in 1960, the family moved back to England. Before leaving, and with good reports

academically and in sport from the Marist Brothers headmaster, Terence had been accepted for Downside by the headmaster Dom Pasmore - who had been a contemporary of Austin’s when he was in the school. On arrival, Terence was fast-tracked into the Junior Colts, where he became the top scorer of that season, and again the following year in the Colts. This he was to repeat again in his final year in the First Eleven – a team that as not a happy one for various reasons best left unsaid. Terence always felt he should have been appointed captain, having in his opinion a far better record than the person who was. The Raven was scathing: ‘None of the batsmen showed the responsibility it was reasonable to expect from those in their second year in the side.’ Terence had the highest number of runs over the next best batsman by over 100 runs. The overall result of matches against other schools was 4 won, 1 lost and 1 drawn – not altogether that bad a result.

An interesting occasion in Terence’s cricketing time at Downside was when, aged about fifteen, he was playing on the nets one evening after supper with cricketing friends. He happened to be at the crease when one of the Dom Van Zellers came by with his friend the WWI poet Siegfried Sasoon. Sassoon asked Terence if he could bowl a few balls at him, which then took place – something Terence dined off for many years. Sassoon was a very keen cricketer, as recorded in his Memoires of a Fox-Hunting Man

Before leaving Downside. Terence obtained a place to read law at New College, Oxford on the back of the excellent teaching in history he received in his last four terms from Dom Aelred Watkin, who always remained a good friend. In the intervening months before going up, he took an Italian course at Perugia University to learn the language and to read Dante’s La Davinia Commedia in the original. The ‘60s were a carefree time in Europe, and Terence returned to the UK on a Vespa scooter which he shared with an American literary student, also on the course. The American had already established a correspondence with the poet Ezra Pound and

they called on him making a detour to his home in the South of France. Terence thought the poet was quite mad.

Perhaps disappointed by his last cricket season at Downside, Terence did not attempt to play for Oxford, deciding instead to concentrate on his studies and the liberating social whirl of Oxford. He obtained an upper two grade second class degree, and in due course qualified as a barrister. He took pupilage with a silk who specialized in music copyright. With Terence’s years as a trumpeter in the Downside orchestra, and the dance and military bands he had good understanding of the issues involved. One of the earlier cases he was involved with as a junior was when singer-songwriter Paul Simon of Simon & Garfunkel sued someone for breach of copyright for alleged plagiarizing his version of Scarborough Fair. In the finest of English legal traditions, the judge announced to the court at the opening of the case that he was unaware of who Simon of Simon & Garfunkel was, and he had likewise never heard of the song in dispute. Was the plaintiff in court? No M’lud, Mr Simon is on a world tour with Mr Garfunkel. Then how can the defendant possible have justice if Mr Simon is not here to be cross-examined? Case postponed until Mr Simon comes to court and conduct himself in a proper manner! Paul Simon never did.

After a spell at the commercial bar with mixed results, Terence was invited to join a set of chambers which in part specialized in dealing with medical claims. After a while, Terence decided to offer his services to defending the doctors - acting for their insurance companies at a far lower fixed but certain fee, and in due course likewise for National Health. In this he received a lot of help from senior doctors, who took him to see the types of operations he was defending and pointing out the risks those operations carried. In court he was therefore able to speak with first-hand knowledge which the barristers acting for the plaintiffs did not always possess. His retort, time after time’ was, ‘You haven’t proved your case.’ In this work he

became probably the leading defense advocate. In due course he took silk. His defense work continued until he had a serious skiing accident with head injuries in 2000. It forced his early retirement from the demands of conducting such cases. Sometime later he was able to work again, but as a recorder in less demanding county court cases for a fixed fee of £300 per day. That work stopped when in their wisdom or otherwise the powers-that-be decided judges should be retired at 70 – which then caused a shortage of judges to take cases, and a consequential backlog of trials.

Terence still continued to take part in activities at the Middle Temple, playing an important role in the ongoing restoration of the Temple Church and as a follow-up to his time with Dom Columba in the Vintners’ Society at Downside, he became ‘Master of the Cellar.’ Following the announcement of his death, the flag of Temple Church was hung at half-mast in his honour.

Throughout his post Downside life, Terence took a great interest in cricket, playing for the Downside Wanderers and the Sussex Martlets. He became a non-playing member of the MCC, regularly attending the test matches in the Warner Stand. In the summer before his death, he had a day at Lords watching the England v. Sri Lanka match. He was by then in a wheelchair, and by special arrangement, he was allowed to watch the game from the Long Room and was well looked after by those about him.

Terence’s memorial service attracted some three hundred people including a few OGs, amongst them his old cricketing mucker Chris Caufield – Harry Heath was unable to attend.

Amongst the many tributes Terence’s family received was from retried Supreme Court Judge. Lord Nicholas Wilson. ‘As a fellow- barrister and later a judge, I can attest that Terence was a hugely popular member of the Bar who never seemed pleased with himself though he had plenty to be pleased about. As well as an acute intelligence he had an unfair amount of charm and, as an occasional opponent of his, I recollect, with some

discomfort, that he sometimes used it to win cases that he should not have won’.

Terence died of cancer. He leaves a widow Angie, three children and five grandchildren.

BRIGADIER ‘CHRIS’ DICK CBE (C53)

1935 - 2024

Chris Dick passed away on 9th December

2024 aged 89, having lived a remarkable life. He was a man born into a large family and had a distinguished Army career, retiring as a brigadier and was awarded CBE by the late Queen. His Catholic education imbued in him not just a deep faith, but a commitment to helping others. He never married and nothing fazed him, which was just as well when making beds and serving breakfast to the homeless at the age of 60.

Catering for people who slept on the streets was rather different to the party he organised in 1977 as CO of the Third Royal Tank Regiment. He had agreed to host an Army v Navy polo match in which Prince Charles would be playing. The

event went so well that another was arranged the following year.

This time however, it was not quite on the same scale. With only two days’ notice, Chris was told the Duke of Edinburgh would be arriving with Prince Edward by helicopter. The Army’s PR soon alerted the Commander-in-Chief Sir (later Lord) Edwin Bramall, who announced he would also attend.

Then, without notice, Lord and Lady Mountbatten arrived with their twin grandsons. The royal tea party for 12 would now be over 25 and Chris Dick’s instruction to his loyal steward was simple: better get more scones! He recruited many in his family to help with the preparations and entertain the royal party. They pointed out another problem; there was only one downstairs loo in the CO’s house!

After retirement from the Army Chris joined an international language training company, just as the USSR imploded. Russia was to be his sales target. So, the man whose most recent posting was to defend the West against the old Evil Empire was quickly on a plane to Moscow.

A few years later Chris decided he wanted to be directly involved with helping the homeless in London. He contacted the CEO of Centrepoint and told him he was available to volunteer in any way that was useful. So the former CO of 3 RTR began night shifts making beds and serving dinner and breakfasts for the homeless.

He then embarked on a one-man mission to replace all the furniture in the Dean Street and Vauxhall properties which were in very poor condition. Cycling around London on his bicycle Chris winkled out opportunities to get furniture donated from unoccupied commercial buildings and the shelters were soon transformed at no cost to the charity.

Chris was brilliant at spotting opportunities and during his furniture hunting trips, identified buildings that, with a bit of hard negotiating, could be turned into homeless hostels. So, when he heard that the First Sea Lord was moving out of Admiralty Arch, he had the unlikely idea of persuading the MOD to offer this grand, historic building as another shelter for the homeless. A meeting with the head of the

Downside 1st XI 1963 - Terence Coghlan seated second right

Crown Estates led to one with John Prescott, then deputy prime minister, who endorsed the idea and saw a PR opportunity. A fortnight before Christmas in 1997, the grand new shelter opened with Prescott serving breakfasts to the homeless in front of a pack of journalist’s cameras.

Chris added the transnational homeless charity Depaul to his growing commitments, as well as the charitable foundation of his old school, Downside Fisher Youth Club, where he became chair of trustees. He was instrumental in fundraising for Training For Life, the charity that creates training and work opportunities for disadvantaged young people. He took over from his cousin as chair of trustees for the family Christian social housing charity, The Fairfield Trust and became a trustee (and later chair) of trustees at his old prep school, All Hallows. As if this wasn’t enough, Chris was always working his expanding international network to help scores of friends and acquaintances who had hit a difficult time in their lives and were struggling a bit. This devotion of his time and energy to helping others filled much of his time until just before his passing in December 2024.

For most people all these commitments wouldn’t leave any room for anything else in their lives, but not Chris Dick. He was passionate about his large family in the UK, Belgium, France and Western Australia, about skiing and sailing. He had an infectious sense of humour, so he was always great company, upbeat and jolly. He therefore collected a great many loyal friends and was a much loved ‘uncle’ to so many. His house parties at his Dartmouth home, together with dozens of skiing and sailing trips were legendary …. always full of banter and laughter, yet everything was underscored by his deep Christian faith.

Chris Dick achieved high office in every element of his career, yet he always conducted himself with disarming modesty. Always humble. Never any pomp. Never patronising. He hardly ever used his rank or honour, always preferring to be just ‘Chris’. He was awarded the Old Gregorian Medal in 2018, which he valued most highly.

For a life well lived over 89 years, Chris Dick is one of those rare personalities, whose compassion, humour and devotion to helping others, deeply touched so many in his orbit. He was a friend like no other. He didn’t just help people, he inspired everyone who knew him and enriched their lives.

Richard Balfry

JEROME FRANCIS DILLON (U62) 1944 - 2025

Jerome Francis Dillon was born on the 6th of May 1944. He arrived into a world at war but lived a life marked by discipline, principle, and determination.

After spending a year at Sandhurst, he chose not to pursue a military career and turned instead to the law. He was articled at Rashleigh & Co in Lincoln’s Inn Fields, admitted as a solicitor in 1969 and joined Marsland & Barber in Margate, spending most of his time in the criminal courts. A later move to Walmesley & Barnes proved short-lived after a merger and in 2000, he founded Mackenzie Dillon, his own licensing practice, which he continued to run until his death.

In 2009, he did something few expected: joining the Bench as a Magistrate. It was a role that suited his sense of order and commitment to justice but after so many years as a defence lawyer he tended to be somewhat lenient!

Clever, inventive, and respected by colleagues and opponents alike, he was deeply embedded in the local community. Through his licensing work, he helped keep the local trade functioning—and, by his unflinching personal patronage, solvent. He was official solicitor to both Broadstairs Town Council and Broadstairs Sailing Club.

Jerome died at home on the 1st of July, aged 81. It is hard to say goodbye, but we remember him as he was—intelligent, principled, eccentric, and very much his own man. May he rest in peace.

Anthony Dillon (U66)

MARTIN BERESFORD FISHER (HonOG) 1940 - 2024

Martin taught classics for more than 60 years in six different schools, including 22 at Downside, and was a guiding light in thousands of lives. A Roman Catholic convert, he later became the first lay Senior Deputy Head at Downside. Throughout his teaching career, he was unfailing in his encouragement of others, and steadfast in his belief in the power of memory and language to change lives. It is hard to imagine a more loving or encouraging father.

Martin Beresford Fisher was born in Wallasey on 7th October 1940, during the later stages of the Battle of Britain. He was the eldest of five children born to Leslie, a pharmacy dispenser, and Zelica, a former librarian. Martin spent his first year of life listening to the drone of approaching bombers and being carried by his mother to their neighbour’s air raid shelter, where he spent his nights sleeping in a drawer. His early years were spent largely without his father, who was called up in 1943. Leslie served with the Royal Army Ordnance Corps and later with the Royal Army Medical Corps. Shortly before VE Day, he came home on leave unexpectedly and comforted Martin and his brother Nigel, who had been frightened by foghorns of ship’s crews celebrating on the Mersey. Martin later recalled that the surprise of seeing his father appear in their bedroom in the middle of the night was one of the happiest moments of his childhood.

Martin attended St Aidan’s Preparatory School and later Birkenhead School before reading Classics at Corpus Christi College, Oxford, where he was an Open Scholar. He missed the call up to national service by just a few months, and found work as a postage clerk with Alfred Holt & Co, who awarded him an educational grant to travel to Greece and the Greek Islands before university. At Oxford, his active social and sporting life, including coxing for his college, meant he often found it necessary to break curfew. On once such occasion, finding all the gates locked, he used an obliging telephone box to impersonate a resident of New College Lane so the duty porter would hasten out to deal with the

“disturbance outside” and he and his friends could dash back into college.

During his time at Oxford, when his family relocated from the Wirral to Ely, he worked at a jam factory and later guarded Rubens’ Adoration of the Magi from would-be vandals in the Chapel of King’s College, Cambridge. He considered ordination in the Church of England or following his forbears into naval service, but early teaching posts at Wallasey Grammar School and Lancaster Royal Grammar School confirmed his vocation to the teaching profession. In autumn 1964 he joined King Henry VIII School, Coventry as a teacher of classics. There, he established a Latin verse club and supported the newly rebuilt Coventry Cathedral as it set up its choir and started to tour abroad.

Martin joined Manchester Grammar School in January 1972. While at MGS, he developed a genuine love of the Cambridge Latin Course and co-authored two books for the course with the late Martin Griffin: Selections from Pliny (1973) and The Pliny Handbook (1977). He chaired the Dramatic Society and directed several major productions, including a drama exchange with Phillips Academy Andover, and led camps to the Lake District. Through colleagues he met his wife Janet, then a teacher of English at Manchester High School and an assistant warden in one of Manchester University’s all-female halls of residence. They married at St Mary’s Whitkirk in Leeds on 26th July, 1980.

A growing sense that he wished to join the Roman Catholic Church led Martin to apply for the post of Head of Classics at Downside. He and Janet moved to Somerset in 1982 and Norton St Philip became his beloved home of the next forty years. His daughter Rosemary was born in January 1985 and his son Michael in November 1987. Martin was received into the Catholic Church in 1990, the year of his 50th birthday, by Dom Philip Jebb OSB, who had appointed him at Downside. Five years later he became the school’s first lay Senior Deputy Head, working with lay and monastic colleagues as Downside navigated significant challenges. There was still time for occasional merriment. A group of boys had started The Rook – their answer to the school’s

official magazine The Raven. Martin could not resist submitting a letter from an anonymous ‘parent’ entitled “Latin is a dead language.”

At the age of 65, he moved to Prior Park College to become Head of Classics. There he taught girls for the first time in his career. He continued to support the OG community at Downside and remained a committed parishioner at the Church of Our Lady, Norton St Philip until its closure. His 16 years at Prior Park coincided with the deaths of his son Michael aged 20, who was profoundly disabled from birth, in 2008; and his wife Janet, aged 58, in 2010.

Martin retired from teaching in schools at the age of 80, although he continued until shortly before his death to tutor pupils privately and maintained a blog on all things classics at teacherofclassics.com. In his 80th birthday year, there was a double celebration: Rosemary married her husband Adam on what would have been Martin and Janet’s ruby wedding anniversary. He became a grandfather in 2021 with the arrival of George, followed by Charles in 2023, and moved to London in 2022 to live close to his family. He died on 5th June 2024, following a short illness, aged 83.

“My sword I give to him that shall succeed me in my pilgrimage and my courage and skill to him that can get it. My marks and scars I carry with me, to be a witness for me that I have fought his battles who now will be my rewarder.” John Buchan

Rosemary Baylis-West (née Fisher)

the USSR, he had lived in Moscow as a teenager and become proficient in the language. In 1983 he served as the interpreter for Alexander Solzhenitsyn when the novelist came to Britain to receive the Templeton Prize.

“Solzhenitzyn told me he felt like ‘a duck in water’ with me, which I took as the greatest compliment I have ever received,” Kelly recalled. A photograph of them side by side delivering the acceptance speech took pride of place in his downstairs cloakroom.

When Mrs Thatcher was preparing for what she described as her “historic mission” to the USSR in 1987, it was to Kelly that her foreign policy guru Charles Powell turned for advice. He provided the prime minister with a reading list on Russian history and suggested that she visit the ancient monastery at Zagorsk, the spiritual centre of the Russian Orthodox church, where she lit a candle for peace and drew a huge and appreciative crowd.

Kelly was also tasked with escorting the Soviet premier Alexei Kosygin to Cambridge when he visited Britain in 1967. “I told the motorcade to take the route through Hampstead. I turned to Kosygin and told him these were the workers’ houses. He grunted that he didn’t believe me. After the trip to Cambridge he looked at me condescendingly and said ‘you are dismissed’. The British press called him ‘Cosy Grin’ [but] he wasn’t at all a grinning person.”

LAURENCE KELLY (C50) 1933 - 2025

Has died aged 92, found time during a busy career in industry to become a leading authority on Russian history.

As the son of the British ambassador to

Kelly’s first book, Lermontov: Tragedy in the Caucasus (1978), was a biography of Mikhail Lermontov (1814-41), the writer, soldier and bête noire of Tsar Nicholas I. Sir Fitzroy Maclean commended Kelly’s “extremely well written and readable” book in The New York Times for “giving us for the first time the carelessly uttered taunt that cost Lermontov his life”: it emerged that he had mocked an old schoolfriend’s taste for ostentatious Circassian dress, resulting in his death in a duel at the age of 26. The book was awarded the inaugural Cheltenham Literary Prize.

Kelly won further acclaim for Diplomacy and Murder in Tehran (2001), a study of the playwright

Alexander Griboyedov (1795-1829), who was appointed attaché to the first permanent Russian mission in Tehran as a punishment for duelling (despite protesting that he would not survive without “enlightened people and sympathetic women”) and ended up negotiating the location of the official border between Russia and Persia. Philip Hensher, choosing it as his book of the year in The Independent, acclaimed it as both “genuinely important and exciting”.

Laurence Charles Kevin Kelly was born in Brussels on April 11 1933, the son of Sir David Kelly MC and his wife Comtesse Marie-Noële de Jourda de Vaux, a Franco-Belgian aristocrat. Laurence’s older brother Bernard became an eminent merchant banker and married Lady Mirabel Fitzalan Howard, sister of the Duke of Norfolk.

The earliest years of Laurence’s peripatetic childhood were largely spent in Cairo, where his father was a senior diplomat. As a small child he nearly died of a virus; his mother consulted 12 doctors before he was cured by a Jewish physician who had fled Nazi Germany. As a reward, Laurence’s father helped the doctor to become a member of the Gezira Sporting Club, from which the largely British committee had excluded him through anti-semitic prejudice.

From 1940 the family were billeted in Switzerland, where David Kelly worked alongside the loveable but erratic Sir Arthur “Boofy” Gore, later the Earl of Arran. When a gathering of Swiss dignitaries was shown a Ministry of Agriculture film on Hereford cows instead of the expected footage of the Battle of Britain, David Kelly was heard to declare loudly: “Boofy, you’ve bogged it again!” This became a family catchphrase.

In 1942 David Kelly was appointed British Ambassador to Argentina, and the family had to travel through Vichy France from Switzerland to set sail from Lisbon. Laurence recalled that although the family had diplomatic immunity, this did not apply to Whittington, their butler.

“At the Geneva railway station, the Gestapo

– who, like in films, all wore felt hats and long raincoats – decided to humiliate Whittington, so they made him take his striped trousers off,” Laurence recalled. “Then the train started to move out of the station and all the Gestapo were standing roaring with laughter like the chorus in Un ballo in maschera, as the poor chap had to run to catch the train, his folded trousers on his arm.”

After Argentina, David Kelly served as Ambassador to Turkey from 1946, before being transferred to the USSR in 1949. The 16-year-old Laurence had a young tutor who agreed to teach him dirty jokes in Russian in exchange for tango records.

One day his mother asked him to accompany her to visit the medieval city of Novgorod, and, at the suggestion of the military attaché at the embassy, Laurence photographed the Russian bridges and railway lines they passed on the train.

“Then we got to Novgorod, and I took a picture of a medieval gate at the Kremlin, of only tourist interest. A little boy rushed off to the police station, and then I was marched off [there]: the colonel put his arm around me and said: ‘Next time you want to take cultural pictures, come to me and ask me first.’ I realised that if they saw my railway pictures I would be in trouble, so I asked to go to the loo, and exposed the pictures.”

After Downside, Laurence did his National Service with the Life Guards before reading history on a scholarship at New College, Oxford, studying under Raymond Carr. He went on to take a business degree at Harvard.

In 1955 he joined the Foreign Office; one of his duties was to cycle to the Russian Embassy and deliver a note apologising for the activities of Commander “Buster” Crabb, who had disappeared after diving into Portsmouth Harbour to spy on the Soviet cruiser Ordzhonikidze. (He recalled Anthony Eden, the Prime Minister, being furious at having to apologise, as it seemed likely that the Soviets had murdered Crabb).

After a year, Kelly decided that his future lay in industry and joined the steelmakers Guest, Keen

and Nettlefolds (now GKN). In 1972 he joined the steel reinforcement company Helical Bar and was a key figure in its evolution into a highly successful property and investment concern. He served as chairman from 1984 to 1988, group profits rising during his tenure from £488,000 to £6.67 million. He held a string of other directorships and was a member of the Monopolies and Mergers Commission.

In 1987 Kelly suffered a severe stroke that left his left arm and leg paralysed. He bore the remaining four decades of his life as a semi-invalid without complaint and, after several years of physiotherapy, recovered enough feeling in his leg to resume his hobby of ski-ing, with a helper to carry his skis and haul him up if he fell.

Another passion was music, and he was chair of the charity Opera da Camera from 1981 to 1987. He was also general editor of the Travellers’ Guide series of anthologies on various cities: his editors included Peter Ackroyd on London and Hugh Thomas on Madrid. He edited well-received volumes on St Petersburg, Moscow and Istanbul himself.

In 1963 Laurence Kelly married Linda McNair Scott, a granddaughter of the Daily Telegraph proprietor Lord Camrose. For more than 60 years they lived in a large, rambling house in Notting Hill, entertaining an eclectic mixture of writers, artists and diplomats; on one occasion the entire Georgian State Ballet came to tea.

Linda Kelly gained a considerable reputation as a historian herself. In 2003 Laurence and Linda were both elected Fellows of the Royal Society of Literature; Laurence was also a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and a senior associate member of St Antony’s College, Oxford.

Linda Kelly cared devotedly for her husband after his stroke, before her death in 2019. He is survived by their son and two daughters.

Laurence Kelly, born April 11 1933, died July 23 2025.

The Telegraph

JAMES LEWIS ASHHURST MAJENDIE (R51)

1932 - 2025

Born in 1932 to Captain Lewis Majendie, R.N., and Margaret Louise (nee Speirs), James attended Downside shortly after the Second World War, excelling at sports including hockey and rugby, and becoming head of Junior House.

After leaving the school, he enlisted in the Royal Navy and was posted to the light cruiser HMS Swiftsure. In the late summer of 1953, Swiftsure took part in a large NATO Exercise, codenamed “Mariner”, off the coast of Iceland. During a violent storm the vessel was accidentally rammed amidships by the destroyer HMS Diamond. The collision breached Swiftsure’s hull and set off an intense fire in the bridge section, causing molten metal from the electrical conduits to rain down on the desperate crew.

With the ship rapidly filing with water and the fire raging out of control, the situation appeared hopeless. Yet the heroic actions of Majendie and the other crew members and the Grace of God averted calamity. A flat calm suddenly descended on the Atlantic and, though the fire raged all night, the ship was saved.

Swiftsure was scrapped and James was posted to Bahrain, where he joined a patrol vessel operating in the Arabian Gulf. It was here that he began to develop what would become a lifelong passion for diving.

He returned to London and, after training in underwater bomb disposal, was posted to the Far East Fleet Clearance Diving Team, based in Singapore. Under his command, the team gained respect for making safe thousands of tons of mines and subsea ordinance from the war that were scattered throughout the waters of Southeast Asia.

On one occasion, it was discovered that the torpedoes in a sunken Japanese submarine off Penang had become armed by the action of the sea and one had exploded during an attempt to clear them. A team of four divers led by Lt. Majendie was sent to remove the torpedoes and render them safe, a difficult and dangerous mission that earned

James a commendation from Admiral J. D. Luce, Commander-in-Chief of British Forces in the Far East.

Posted back to England in 1963, Majendie spent the next four years helping clear the British coast of unexploded ordnance, before being seconded to the US Navy through a NATO officer exchange. His underwater expertise was quickly put to good use and he became involved in a number of covert military programs, including the development of a rebreathing apparatus that allowed Navy Seals to swim underwater without the tell-tale trail of bubbles.

Trials of the equipment took place in the freezing waters of St. Lawrence Island off the coast of Alaska, near the border of the then Soviet Union. Majendie caused a minor scandal back in Washington when underwater photographs of the test results showed that the diver testing the topsecret US MK-10 equipment sported a British Union Flag on his shoulder.

He was also involved in the ambitious Tektite project in the late 1960s. Two underwater habitats were installed on the seabed in the US Virgin Islands to determine the effects of diving to and living for an extended time in an underwater laboratory.

After returning to the UK, he resigned from the navy to pursue opportunities opening up for an experienced diver by the discovery of oil in the North Sea.

Working for companies such as Marathon Oil and Occidental Petroleum, he helped design and build numerous pipeline and engineering projects, solving the technical problems of installing vast structures in one of the world’s most inhospitable seas.

He is perhaps best remembered among those who knew him in the industry for his involvement in the Piper Alpha disaster in 1988, when one of the North Sea’s major oil and gas rigs caught fire after a series of explosions. Majendie was among those on nearby support vessels that launched fast rescue craft to try to save the crew on the burning rig. With one other man on his boat, he went across three times to rescue four of the 61 survivors

from the inferno. A total of 168 people perished in the disaster, including three from one of the rescue vessels.

James continued to work on engineering and construction projects in remote parts of the world, from the Falkland Islands to the Eastern European enclave of Ingushetia, eventually retiring to the South of France where he and his wife Claire lived for the next 23 years.

He died at the age of 92 in Petworth, England, on March 3, 2025, with his wife by his side. He is survived by her, three children and seven grandchildren.

May he rest in peace.

JAMES PAVRY (C68) 1943 - 2025

James Francis Pavry was born on 4th October 1950 in London, where he was brought up. He was the youngest of four boys, all of whom were at Worth and then at Downside, to where James went in 1964, following his brothers Richard, Peter and John.

He was a diligent scholar, history being his primary subject, in which he excelled. Sports were not to the fore of his interests at that time, but he made his mark in drama and debating. He went on to Merton College Oxford in 1968, having gained an exhibition to read history. These halcyon days continued after coming down, when he travelled extensively in Turkey and the Holy Land with Septimus Waugh, his fellow OG and close friend.

On his return, James read for the Bar and was called in 1974. This was the beginning of a stellar career in which both his personal and professional integrity, as well as exceptional ability, soon became

Adam Majendie (Ra82)

apparent in a profession expecting the highest standards.

In due course he joined a newly-formed set of chambers, soon to become very successful. Several of his then colleagues became judges, including His Honour Lindsay Burn, who served with great distinction. Lindsay Burn’s tribute to James, written immediately following his funeral, is remarkable for its spontaneity and its evocation of James’s personal and professional qualities. What follows is what he wrote about him.

“James was a close friend and colleague for almost 50 years. He was the best friend you could have because he was always good company and never let you down. But his qualities went far beyond that. He was fiercely intelligent and a great persuader as his long career at the Bar showed. We were in the same Chambers for 40 years. I must admit I envied his practice. He was a brilliant defence advocate because he was fearless and incisive. He was also a superb prosecutor because he was invariably the most intelligent person in the court but totally fair and reasonable in his presentation of the case. Juries loved him. He had another advantage which was a mischievous sense of humour which was never far from the surface. He did very high level work including a series of prosecutions for the Serious Fraud Office and the Department of Trade and Industry and I believe he won them all. But that’s not the point. What mattered to him was professionalism and fairness. At those he excelled. On a personal level being in his company was special. His knowledge of events and insights, his interest in people, his ability to give advice which was always helpful, his kindness and the laughter in his eyes. Those are the things I valued most and remember with love and gratitude in this very special man.”

By way of postscript, it should be mentioned that following James’s involvement in a particularly important and highly-publicised commercial fraud case, which resulted in the convictions of the defendants, he received a lengthy handwritten letter of thanks from the very senior member of the

Serious Fraud Office having responsibility for the conduct of the case.

After referencing the serious difficulties of the matter, including those touching on the office itself, and thanking him for his exceptional work, he commended James for having “conducted the trial with exemplary fairness, in the very best traditions of the independent Bar”.

The Bar is a hard taskmaster and the praise that James received throughout his career, which he invariably kept to himself, and after his lifetime is testimony to his modesty and to the true worth of the man. Although he did not take silk or progress to the judiciary, this was his choice and in no way a reflection of any professional shortcoming. Barristers sometimes forget that there is a wonderful world outside the law, and this James was determined to enjoy, retiring at the relatively young age of 61 years.

James was a much loved and generous brother, uncle and great uncle, staying very close to his family and many friends, all of whom were deeply saddened by his death. He died on 9th October 2024, steadfast in his Catholic faith.

Antonio Bueno (C58)

MARK PEPLOE (C60) 1943 - 2025

Mark Peploe, who has died in Florence aged 82, was a British screenwriter who worked frequently with such giants of European arthouse cinema as Michelangelo Antonioni and Bernardo Bertolucci; known for pursuing highly ambitious projects, he declared on receiving an Oscar for Bertolucci’s The Last Emperor (1987) that the award was “hugely encouraging to anybody else who wants to write impossible movies”.

Peploe was a restless, wide-ranging traveller, and Bertolucci – who married his sister, the writerdirector Clare Peploe, in 1979 – credited his brother-in-law with encouraging him to look beyond Italy for the settings of his films.

“From Mark I got this great fascination for

travelling,” Bertolucci told The Sunday Telegraph in 1999. “His way of being abroad is something which I think is very English, of being a traveller and not a tourist.”

The result was The Last Emperor (1987), for which Bertolucci received permission to film within Beijing’s Forbidden City palace complex, along with the use of 19,000 recruits from the People’s Liberation Army as extras. The film told the story of Pu Yi, who was anointed emperor in 1908 at the age of two and enjoyed a pampered childhood before being forced to abdicate and later endure “re-education” after the advent of Chairman Mao. Peploe wrote the script, derived from Pu Yi’s memoirs, in collaboration with Bertolucci, and the pair received the Academy Award for best adapted screenplay – one of nine Oscars for which the film was nominated, including Best Picture, all of which it carried off. They also won the Golden Globe for best screenplay.

The Last Emperor’s success gave Peploe the cachet to achieve his long-held ambition of directing a film himself, although he was obliged to secure funding from France, where the independent cinema culture was healthier: “In Britain, I literally would not know where to go for money,” he told The Daily Telegraph.

Afraid of the Dark (1991) was a flesh-creeper starring James Fox as a detective fearful for his blind wife (Fanny Ardant) as he hunts a violent lunatic

targeting blind women. It did well enough to enable Peploe to secure funding for an adaptation, in 1996, of Victory, Joseph Conrad’s 1915 novel of Europeans going amok in southeast Asia; he had written the script two decades earlier.

“His casting is uncannily apt – Willem Dafoe as loner Axel Heyst, Irène Jacob as the girl he reluctantly rescues from Simon Callow’s white-slave orchestra, and Sam Neill as the sinister Mr Jones, who interrupts their island idyll,” noted Anne Billson in The Sunday Telegraph. “But the writer-director is finally defeated by his own reverence, leaving us with a rather plodding illustrated classic amid picturesque Malaysian scenery.”

The film’s unenthusiastic reception scuttled Peploe’s prospects of further directing, one of many frustrations in a career often stalled by his enthusiasm for large-scale, far-flung projects. “A lot of my life has been spent developing films which were about to be made, then collapsed,” he observed.

Mark Alexis More Peploe was born in Nairobi on March 3 1943. His father, Willy, was an art dealer and the son of the celebrated Scottish painter SJ Peploe; his mother, Clotilde, née Brewster, was also an artist.

The family was peripatetic and although the bulk of Mark’s childhood was spent at his parents’ villa in Florence, they lived for long periods elsewhere in Europe and in Africa. He hitch-hiked round Afghanistan and Nepal in his late teens, and stumbled on to the set of David Lean’s Lawrence of Arabia (1962) during a journey through Morocco. After Downside he read PPE at Magdalen College, Oxford, and then became a researcher for the BBC’S documentary unit, before working with Roger Graef as a writer and director on the Canadian interview series Creative Persons. His ambition, however, was to write film screenplays: “I thought that if you wrote the script, you would be able to control the movie... It was an illusion, but I thought so at the time.”

Fluent in Italian, he struck up an acquaintanceship with Michelangelo Antonioni when the director

Mark Peploe, right, celebrating in 1988 with collaborator Bernardo Bertolucci, left, and Robin Williams

was in London to film Blow-up (1966) and “hustled some work from him finding locations”; the friendship was cemented when Antonioni embarked on a relationship with his sister Clare, as Bertolucci would later on.

Peploe went with Antonioni to Rome and fell in with the international film set, writing an unmade Western for Joseph Losey and working on the scripts for Jacques Demy’s musical The Pied Piper (1972), starring Donovan and Diana Dors, and René Clément’s final picture, La Baby-sitter (1975), with Maria Schneider and Robert Vaughn.

With Peter Wollen he co-wrote the screenplay for The Passenger (1975), Antonioni’s globe-trotting existentialist thriller starring Jack Nicholson as Locke, a jaded journalist reporting on the civil war in Chad. After discovering a corpse in his hotel he decides to swap identities with the man, and goes on the road to keep the appointments in the man’s diary, accompanied by a mysterious young woman played by Maria Schneider. Nicholson was originally supposed to be driven everywhere by Schneider, but when it emerged early on in filming that she could not drive, the title became purely metaphorical.

Peploe’s daughter Lola later observed that her father was “himself speaking in the character of Locke. He was mysterious and quite difficult to pin down, a traveller and a loner.” Peploe had longed to direct the film himself, but the producer Carlo Ponti insisted it be helmed by Antonioni, who reworked parts of the script to make it more overtly political. Initial reviews were mixed, but it has come to

achieve classic status; the critic David Thomson has called it “one of the greatest films ever made”.

After The Last Emperor, Peploe worked with Bertolucci on the screenplays for two more films with exotic locales. The Sheltering Sky (1990), an adaptation of Paul Bowles’s novel of 1949, starred John Malkovich and Debra Winger as a couple dicing with adultery and death in North Africa; the octogenarian Bowles provided voiceover narration, although he later disowned the film, which cost $25 million and grossed $2 million. Little Buddha (1993) was an earnest yarn about the search for the child reincarnation of a Tibetan lama, interspersed with an account of the origins of the Buddha as played by Keanu Reeves.

In a more light-hearted vein, Peploe also worked with his sister Clare on her directorial debut High Season (1987), a romcom set on Rhodes and starring Jacqueline Bisset and Kenneth Branagh; Roger Ebert praised it as “an example of a rare species: the intelligent silly movie”.

Peploe was also a visual artist and retained an oldfashioned sensibility, always writing his scripts longhand with pen and ink.

Mark Peploe was married to Louise Stjernsward, the costume designer on The Passenger; they separated in 1997. Their daughter survives him along with his partner, the art historian Alina Payne.

Mark Peploe, born March 3 1943, died June 18 2025.

The Telegraph

REQUIESCANT IN PACE

OG NEWS

1952

Bernardo Vega (C) won the prize for the best Caribbean history book given by the association of Caribbean studies for his work on the failed efforts of US President Grant to annex the Dominican Republic in 1871.

1956

Simon Bingham (Lord Clanmorris) (B) is working to promote an increased use of nuclear power in the UK. He is Director of The Campaign for Lower Electricity Prices Ltd and ZettaJoule (UK) Ltd.

1957

John Dillon (B) has recently published, together with his wife, two volumes of travel memoirs, covering the years 1970-1990 and 1990-2010.

Jean and John Dillon, Being There: Travel Diaries 1970s-1980s, Katounia Press, 2023

Jean and John Dillon, Being There Too: Travel Diaries 1990-2010, Katounia Press, 2025

1958

Robin Clapham (R) shared this memory of a private audience he attended aged 11 with Pope Pius XII (1939 - 1958) with his grandfather OG William Dwyer (1905) aged 64 and Dom Maurice Bell O.S.B.

1959

Ken O’Sullivan (S) - a throwback memory. On leaving Downside in 1959, Ken went to the Shannon College of Hotel Management for a four year course. He joined what is now Atlantic Technological University as a lecturer in hotel management subjects, and later became Head of Department, helping to introduce the first hotel management degree (indeed the first degree in any discipline outside the mainstream universities). Photo taken at his graduation from Galway university in July 1980.

1960

John McCarthy (B/U60) was awarded the ‘Weary’ Dunlop medal.

Each year, in honour of Sir Edward ‘Weary’ Dunlop, Asialink pays tribute to an individual who has championed Australia’s relationships with our closest Asian neighbours. The Dunlop Asia Medal is awarded for an outstanding record of achievement in improving Australia–Asia relations and enhancing

the quality of life in the region. The Medal recognises exemplary Australians who have dedicated their life’s work to strengthening and broadening Australia’s engagement within the region, with a record of sustained commitment to excellence in both their vocations and their contributions to Australia–Asia. John was given the Medal in recognition of his impact and commitment to advancing Australia’s relationships with Asia.

1965

Kevin Last’s (S) book A Journey Through Metro-Land will be published by Unicorn Press in January 2026.

1972

Chris Hennemeyer (B) continues to spend half of each year as an unpaid volunteer in Ukraine procuring and deliveriing material support to frontline Ukranian military units through his charity “In the Trenches” (www.inthetrenchesukraine.org) (see photo) When not dodging drones, Chris lives with his girlfriend in Washington DC.

Nick Rea (U) is working in the UK and Cape Town, South Africa in healthcare. He has however for sometime been in the hospitality sector. Benguela Cove wine and residential estate in Hermanus Western Cape South Africa,Mannings Heath Golf and Wine Estate West Sussex and Leonardslee historic gardens and vineyards with a Michelin Star restaurant also West Sussex.

1974

David Fox (Ra) and Nancy welcomed their second grandchild, Zoe Pearl Fox, on 8th November 2024 in Durham, North Carolina, USA.

1979

Jan de Haldevang (S) was ordained Deacon in Church of England Local Ordained Ministry in Gloucester Diocese on 29th June 2025.

1981

Desmond Bloom Davis (U) in addition to his judicial role, has also been apppointed Course Director for Family Training with the Judicial College.

1982

Johnny Brooke (Ra) sold his law firm and moved to Keystone Law as a partner.

1991

Alfonso Zurita (R91) has recently published a new book on economic issues titled The Neoliberal Era. In his professional life, Alfonso has always been linked to international and regional organizations, the publicprivate sector, and research. He has written several other books on economic issues, such as Perspectives on China’s Role in Global Affairs in

the 21st Century, as well as chapters for other economic books like The Economic Duality of the United States and China in the 21st Century and Geoeconomies of the 21st Century. He has also published books on socio-cultural and anthropological topics, such as The Multiethnic Society of Bolivia: Its Fragmentation and Identity Crisis and Millennial Peru - The Paths of the Sun: Communication Routes and Cultural Heritage

To purchase a copy of any of his books (in English or Spanish) please follow the link: www.todostuslibros.com/autor/alfonso-zurita

2001

Dom Tighe (C) continues to produce films. His latest film Dragonfly starring Academy Award nominees Andrea Riseborough and Belnda Blethyn was selected to play in competition at Tribeca in NYC where it had its World Premiere. It will be released in due course.

2013

He was nominated for Breakthrough Producer at the BIFA Awards. he continues to work as an actor, appearing recently in the George Clooney film, Boys in the Boat and most recently The Castaways and Insomnia for Paramount.

Richard Biagosch (B) has completed his studies in philosophy and Catholic theology at the universities of Tubingen and Strasbourg. Also completed law studies at the University of Leipzig and took up a position at the Appeals Chamber of the Higher Regional Court of Gorlitz in Saxony.

2020

Aram Sola Inaraja (S) after graduating from the University of Exeter with a Politics, Philosophy and Economics degree, in January 2025 has started work as a Mergers & Acquisitions Consultant at Strategy&, part of the PwC network.

OGs FAR WIDE &

1. In December 2024, Edward Dewar (C96) and two colleagues Julie and Sally rowed an incredible 3,250 miles of open ocean from Africa to the Americas, raising over £92,000 for Blesma, The Limbless Veterans and The Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust. It took 59 days and 2 hours!

2 Rory Moules (B14) meeting Pope Leo during choir trip to Rome.

3 Richard Bickers (S66) helps his son collect and restore fire brigade vehicles.

4 Anna Hayhurst (C23) and (L-R) Victor Bennett (B24), Yvo Melotte (B24), Oscar Vallancey (S24), George Moorhouse (B24), Freddie Whitaker (R23) receiving their DofE Gold Awards.

5 Octogregorian Zoom Group.

ST GREGORY’S SOCIETY LONDON DINNER

East India Club, November 2024

With grateful thanks to Francis Mander (C70) for the photographs

FROM TO DARJEELING DOWNSIDE

“Left job, gone to Assam” reads the rather terse entry against my great grandfather, Thomas Kingsley, in the New Calcutta directory of 1863.

He had been working as an Assistant to the Agent of the East Bengal Railways. Starting as an uncovenanted Civil Servant in the Home Department in 1848, he had worked his way up to the “Despatcher & Keeper of Diaries” in the Miscellaneous Department between 1852-5 before the more serious role of chief accountant in the

Public Works Department.

We can only guess at what drove him to leave his secure position and expertise in the financing of railways to head towards the adventure of Assam.

Perhaps he felt that his status would limit his ambition. He had been born in Cawnpore in 1830, son of an Irish sergeant in the British Army. The plum jobs in the Civil Service in those days would always be given to those from Europe rather than those who had been born in India.

Perhaps it was the lure of adventure. The tea business in Assam was beginning to boom. The war against Bhutan had ended, and infrastructure was improving. It was a tough life for planters, more so for the workers, but there was money to be made.

Directories from 1870 onwards show Thomas Kingsley either as manager or proprietor of a numerous tea gardens in Assam. A Kingsley Assam Tea company was well established long after his death in 1899 right up to 1946 when Indian businesses started taking over.

Thomas married his second wife, Grace Edward Norris in Calcutta in 1857. They had a boy, Gerald Norris Kingsley in 1864. We know that Gerald had one son, also known as Gerald, who was killed at Ypres on the 23rd October 1914, thus ending that line of the family.

Thomas married for the third time to Mary, and had two sons, Frederick in1877 and Edwin (known as Ned) in 1879. Edwin was my grandfather.

Mary, however, fled the home after the birth of Ned while Thomas was on an elephant catching expedition in Assam. Her daughter (born after the two boys), Sheila Crouchen (nee Treanor) in her book A Letter to Emma (her granddaughter) says that her mother was shocked at having to share her husband with “native concubines” and fair haired children around the compound.

So while he was away in Assam, Mary’s ayah or servant helped her to procure two bullock carts and they made what would have been a perilous journey back to Calcutta. Not only was this a momentous step for a single woman to take, the journey through tiger and leopard infested forests would have been interesting to say the least. There she met a lawyer William Mackie and we will leave them there for the time being. My family’s story and hers become entwined later or perhaps I should say re-entwined.

Fred and Ned at some point in their childhood returned to Darjeeling. They were both educated at St Joseph’s at North Point in Darjeeling, described by some as one of the best in India. They were both helped in the family tea business by their elder half-brother Gerald as they grew older.

Fred then in 1897 at the age of 20 sets up in business with the father of his Assamese clerk as an elephant catcher in Assam and in Bhutan. He trades successfully for some 20 years before returning to the tea trade in Darjeeling. Fred apparently had the first car in Darjeeling.

Grandfather Ned remained in Darjeeling where he was given the Tea Estate known as Liza Hill. The Estate included a very sizeable bungalow of

some 32 rooms, together with tennis court and swimming pool.

It was one of the most impressive residences in the area. We know that then Rani of Sikkim visited, and we believe that an old photo shows George Mallory the climber about to play tennis. Unfortunately, part of the house, and the pool and tennis court were swept away in a landslide in the 1960s.

Both Kingsley brothers were keen on horses, playing polo, and Ned on at least two occasions won the Governors Cup at Darjeeling Race course, said to be the smallest and highest race course in the world ( or at least one of them).

Ned married Nan and had two sons, Michael and David. However, Nan too was not keen on the rather remote life at Lisa Hill, so she and Ned spent time travelling in Italy, with plans to buy a villa in Frascati. Unfortunately, Nan died suddenly. Ned and another relative started to travel through Eastern Europe, ending up in Hungary. Ned there fell in love with a beautiful ballerina from the Buda Pest ballet and wanted to marry her and take her back to India. She felt, however, that she could not leave her parents behind, and so declined.

She gave birth to a daughter with Ned, but Ned died a few years later in 1936, having returned to India and remarried, having two sons, Fred and Ned and a daughter, Marina. Dark forces were beginning to play in Europe. The ballet dancer was Jewish, and she and her parents perished in the holocaust. As the daughter’s father was both English and Catholic, she was placed with a Catholic family and survived.

ARTICLES

Some years later after the War, the daughter turned up in England and met with David, her half brother. Ned had left her 20,000 rupees in his Will, and that had been invested well. Sheila says that the daughter’s fiancée was a son of the family who owned the famous Spanish school of performing horses and so this money could help to restore her new family’s fortune. Sadly, we have heard no more from her, but Sheila does observe that while Ned never knew what happened to the mother of his daughter or the daughter herself, she was the love of his life.

After returning to Darjeeling Ned married again, and had three more children, John, Peter and Marina. Ned died in Darjeeling in 1936 at the age of 57, and his young wife and five children came to England, leaving India for the first time.

David and John went to Beaumont School. David excelled at Rugby and Cricket and later

became a founding member of Everest Double Glazing. John and Peter, however, were always up to no good, so it was decided to separate them at school. Peter, my father was sent to Downside, where he continued to make a nuisance of himself until he was made a school prefect. He was then a real poacher turned gamekeeper as he knew where the wrongdoers were and what they were up to. He was a very good boxer, and certainly when I was at Downside, the photo of him captaining the winning team in the Interschools Boxing from 1953 was displayed on the walls.

Families are about connections, and I promised earlier to mention again the family of Mary and Mr Mackie. One of their daughters married into the Treanor family, and who should appear at Downside a few years after I started but one Simon Treanor.

Many years later my brother, Simon Kingsley, was staying at the Windermere Hotel in Darjeeling when he overheard a lady talking about English families before the War and asked if she had known the Kingsley family.

The lady was Sheila Crouchen, and she describes the encounter in her book thus,” Well thank goodness there was a spare chair behind me which I collapsed on saying do you mean Fredrick Kingsley or Edwin St Jean Kingsley? They were my mother’s half brothers! He said Edwin St Jean was my grandfather.”

The cousins from David, John, Peter and Marina recently met up together with Marina, some meeting for the first time ever, some after some 50 years or so. One is in Canada now, one in Spain, one in Ireland and the rest in England, all very different, and yet still with the same blood

coursing through our veins, and for some of us, a rather prominently shaped and recognisable nose.

I was thinking about those connections while reminiscing on school friends and acquaintances while attending the meet up of creative OGs at the Cross Keys pub in Chelsea this year.

For me one of the strengths of Downside is that sense of connection, almost a family connection. We feel an immediate bond with someone when we see that OG tie… one very important reason why the practice of wearing a suit without a tie should be strictly prohibited!

And in this era of artificial intelligence and robots seemingly poised to take over the world, human connection seems more important than ever.

For the Downside family, where better to reconnect than at the annual school dinner. Whether you’ve never been, not been for 50 years, or go every year, you will almost certainly find a new story to tell. If you’ve not been this year, there is always next year.

The connection between Downside and Darjeeling may be slight, made, perhaps appropriately, because one small boy in the late 1940s was too naughty to go to Beaumont. I am reviving that connection, still buying tea direct from Liza Hill, perhaps from a bush planted by my grandfather.”

By Anthony Kingsley (B79) Anthony is a travel consultant and writer

For me one of the strengths of Downside is that sense of connection, almost a family connection. We feel an immediate bond with someone when we see that OG tie…

AD FRATRES

In October 2024, Timothy Radcliffe (S63) was named a Cardinal by Pope Francis. This extraordinary honour was conferred upon him at a consistory on 8th December 2024 in Rome.

Cardinal Timothy has followed a remarkable path since his days at Downside. He was ordained in 1971 and became the first Englishman to serve as Master of the Dominican Order, a role he held from 1992 to 2001. During this time, he founded Dominican Volunteers International and played a pivotal role in establishing Franciscan-Dominican representative offices at the United Nations, underscoring his deep commitment to social justice and human rights. His accolades include an honorary Doctor of Divinity from Oxford University in 2003, and from 2014 to 2016, he

directed the Las Casas Institute, focusing on issues of social justice.

Cardinal Timothy remains an active member of the Advisory Board at Blackfriars, Oxford, and is a Consulter for the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace. In 2020, Fr Timothy was awarded the Old Gregorian Medal in recognition of his outstanding contributions. His elevation to the College of Cardinals is a testament to his lifelong dedication to the Church and the values that have shaped his remarkable journey. Following his appointment as Cardinal, it was not before he was required to attend the Conclave to elect the new Pope, following the death of Pope Francis on 21 April 2025.

Cardinal Timothy wrote the following article reflecting on his experience at the Conclave.

CONCLAVE

“Conclave means, of course, being locked in. I dreaded this. When we arrived in the Domus Santa Marta where we would live for the duration, we underwent a search that put Heathrow’s security to shame. I had difficulty in explaining that the charger for my hearing aids was not a special device for communicating with the outside world, just for communicating with others in the Conclave! All iPhones, and iPads and lap tops were surrendered. Machines buzzed in the corridors to block all wifi connections. The blinds were sealed shut.

At first this seemed intolerable. My fingers itched to send texts and keep up with the news. But it was profoundly liberating. Each of us had to be present to himself, to each other and to God. Usually we encounter each other not just as individuals, but as representatives of groups, parties, movements. The Laundry bags in our residence bore the surprising exhortation ‘Be You.’ But usually we are tempted to look at each other not as You but as one of them. But slowly we came to be together in a new way, as fellow disciples. St Aelred of Rivaulx says to his young friend Ivo, ‘Here we are, you and I, and I hope a third, Christ, in our midst.’

Here is the paradox: Never before had I felt such a profound responsibility. Soon I would take an oath to vote for whomever I believed it was God’s will should be elected. This election would have profound consequences for the future of the Church.

Many cardinals said that they were relaxed about voting since the Holy Spirit would give us the bishop of Rome who we needed. Yes and No. When Cardinal Ratzinger was asked, before he was elected, if the Holy Spirit chose the Pope, he replied: “I would not say so, in the sense that the Holy Spirit picks out the Pope… I would say that the Spirit does not exactly take control of the affair, but rather, like a good educator, as it were, leaves us much space, much freedom, without entirely abandoning us1.”

So we had the duty to think and pray and discuss. Yet at the same time we became quite light hearted.

I never imagined that a Conclave would include so much laughter and joking. The disagreements remained. Different candidates were championed, and yet somehow we became at ease, with a confidence that there was Christ in the midst of us. When the election as completed, different officials came in for the next stage. One of people charged with ceremonials matters, seeing me moved, joked: ‘Don’t worry. It may be your turn next time’. I hope it was a joke!

For two days we were face to face with Michelangelo’s massive Last Judgment. It is filled with faces. They looked at us as we voted. Initially I was rather thrown by the face of Christ turned in judgment against the damned. But I came to see it as a marvelous affirmation of the triumph of goodness over evil, of love over hatred, of life over death. The sheep on the right of Jesus are being swept upwards in a burst of energy, helping each other on the way, in an explosion of life-filled movement.

Today we face the rise of war and violence, the loss of confidence in democracy, the catastrophe of climate change. It would be easy to succumb to hopelessness. But we voted face to face with this affirmation of the triumph of life, love and of hope. Peter Marshall said, ‘It is better to fail in a cause that will ultimately succeed than to succeed in a cause that will ultimate fail.’ So this vast boiling tumultuous image said to us: Choose life and love even when it seems pointless. This is the essence of martyrdom.

The voting is a liturgical event. We placed our ballots in a bowl on the altar. The culmination of the election was the Eucharist presided over by the newly elected bishop of Rome. The original altar is placed so that when the host is lifted up at the consecration, it was held over against the gate of Hell, with some hungry looking demons at its mouth. We were electing the one who would preside at the commemoration of the Last Supper, that act of hope in the face of the despair when all that lay ahead seemed to be betrayal, denial, torture and death. So the Conclave culminated in the hope of the Eucharist.”

1 An interview on Bavarian television in 1997

FROM THE DEVELOPMENT OFFICE

The year began with a wonderful sense of connection and anticipation as the Downside and Old Gregorian communities came together across the world to celebrate friendships old and new.

In September, the new academic year brought with it renewed energy and a host of events that reflected the enduring spirit of the Downside family.

Thank you to Hugo Monro (S05) for organising an excellent evening for OGs in Singapore. The dinner, held on Thursday 7th November at Le Bistrot du Sommelier, brought together OGs from across the generations for a truly memorable occasion.

Hugo shared, “Attendees from across the generations spanning almost 60 years were present. It was a very convivial evening and pleasing to see the OG flame burning strong in Singapore.” His sentiment captured the spirit of the evening perfectly, as the gathering fostered a sense of nostalgia.

Among those in attendance were John Bittleston (S49) and his wife Eliza Quek, Hugo and Hatty Monro (C07), David Hodge (B05) and his

wife Lauren, Adam Majendie (Ra82) and his wife Sandra, Marius Graham-Watson (S04) and his wife Chloe, and Ed Stewart (B00).

The last OG dinner in Singapore took place in 2018, thanks to John and Eliza, so it was especially exciting to reignite these gatherings in the region. Plans for next year’s gathering are already underway, and it promises to be another special event. Thank you once again to all who attended for helping make the evening such a success, and to Hugo for his efforts in bringing everyone together. Here’s to many more gatherings ahead in Singapore!

We were delighted to see the triennial St Gregory’s Society Dublin Dinner return in full force on Saturday 9th November. Thank you to Vincent Barrett (Ra87) and his wife Niamh for organising such a fantastic weekend, which included an evening watching Ireland take on the New Zealand All Blacks on Friday, Mass at St. Teresa’s Church on Saturday, and a splendid dinner at the Kildare Street & University Club.

The evening brought together a wonderful group of OGs and friends of Downside, including:

Singapore Dinner

Dublin Dinner

Zak Attar (C89), Vincent Barrett Senior, Michael Davitt (U89), Jonny Grew (C77), Michael Hormer (Ra83) and Wendy Hormer, William Johnston (R69), Rupert Orchard (R74) and Cecilia Orchard, Rice Prendiville (R73), Derek Quinlan (S18) and Derek Quinlan Senior, and Thomas Sheridan (S13). Also in attendance were the President of St Gregory’s Society, Ken Beedle (R77), his wife, Susie Beedle, the Head, Andrew Hobbs, and the Director of Development, Jess Newman.

Thank you to everyone who joined us in making the evening such a success. With plans already underway, we’re eagerly counting down to the next Dublin dinner.

On Monday 11th November, we gathered at the Old Gregorian War Memorial at Downside for a solemn Service of Remembrance. Wreaths were laid by the President of St Gregory’s Society, Ken Beedle (R73) on behalf of all Old Gregorians, Andrew Hobbs, the Head and CUO Kara Campbell Meehan. In particular we remembered the 25 Old Gregorians who lost their lives on land in 1944: Lieutenant Michael Charles Anderson, Major Arthur Leonard Bagshawe MC, Lieutenant Digby Hugh Beuttell, Lieutenant Gordon Lawrence Scott Bennett, Major Andrew Malcolm BonhamCarter MC, Captain Darnley Peter Lamond Da Costa, Lieutenant Patrick Clements Da Costa, Captain Augustine Joseph Daly MC, Major Arthur Edward Rosario Hugh Denaro, Major Anthony Revell Eardley-Wilmot MC, Lieutenant Gerald Benson Faller, Colonel Lionel Augustine

Joseph Graham, Lieutenant John Ceolfrid Griggs, Lieutenant Colonel Gerald Patrick Kilkelly, Captain Eustace Gerald Lewton-Brain, Lieutenant John Kevin Maguire, Lieutenant John Gilbert Howe Moorhead, Captain George Alexander Parsons MC, Lieutenant Colonel Edward Ronald Pettit MC, Lieutenant The Hon Stephen Edward Thomas Preston, Major Felix John Stewart Symes, Major Maurice Joseph Lawson Turnball, Lieutenant Philip Anthony Wellesley-Colley, Captain Stephen Garnet Hubert Wolseley, and Lieutenant Count Wladyslaw Zamoyski.

On Thursday 14th November, the President of St Gregory’s Society, Ken Beedle (R73), warmly welcomed OGs and guests to the St Gregory’s Society London Dinner at the East India Club in St James’s. This year’s dinner brought together OGs from the 1974 and 1984 reunion cohorts, along with a significant milestone celebrated by John Scanlan (S54), who marked an extraordinary 70 years since leaving Downside. It was truly inspiring to see OG leavers spanning from 1949 to as recently as 2024 - a testament to the strength and continuity of the Downside community reflecting on the success of recent OG events and sharing details of those yet to come. He then introduced the Head, Andrew Hobbs, who provided an update on the School’s latest developments and expressed his gratitude for the ongoing support of the OG community. Of particular note was the announcement of the Bevan Chorister Award, a new fund that promises

Remembrance Service

London Dinner

to enrich the School’s choral tradition. Finally, Zak Attar (C89) concluded the evening by encouraging everyone to sing the School Song!

We were thrilled to welcome OGs, parents, pupils and visitors from the local community and as far away as Manchester, to listen to Matt Walters (B18) give an inspirational organ concert in the Abbey Church in November. Matt has had a busy twelve months, gaining over 100,000 listeners online, so we were extremely lucky that he was able to join us, playing on the same organ that he learnt to play on whilst here at Downside, before going on to study Classics at Cambridge, where he held an organ scholarship.

On Wednesday 4th December, OGs, OAs, and OWs met at No Idea in Bangkok for their annual reunion dinner. The event, expertly organised by Gus Mackay (U69) and Anthony Liddiard (R71), marked a refreshing change of venue and provided

a fantastic opportunity for attendees to reconnect. Eighteen alumni travelled from across Thailand to join the evening, with representatives from Udon Thani, Hua Hin, Phuket, and Chiang Mai. The commitment of those who made the journey contributed to a lively and convivial atmosphere. The evening began with mingling at the bar before moving upstairs to a dining area where attendees enjoyed an outstanding menu curated by Dave, the New Zealand owner of the venue. The meal was widely praised and added to the evening’s success. Highlights included an update from Patrick Keene (R89), who shared insights into his recent projects in Bangkok, adding an engaging touch to the event.

The Over-60s Lunch in Bath once again proved to be a fantastic occasion, bringing together Old Gregorians for an afternoon of good company, shared memories, and lively conversation. With OGs spanning several decades, the event was filled

Matt Walters Concert Bangkok Dinner

Over 60s lunch

with nostalgia as guests reconnected over archive photographs, sparking stories from their school days. For one attendee, it was his first OG event since leaving Downside - an experience he enjoyed so much that he’s already looking forward to more. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, with plenty of laughter and the kind of camaraderie that makes gatherings like this so special.

In February, the Performing Arts Faculty hosted a memorable evening celebrating the musical achievements of our most talented Sixth Form musicians. The event showcased a series of captivating performances that highlighted the dedication, talent, and hard work of our pupils. We were honoured to welcome back Philip Fowke (B67) as our adjudicator for the evening and extend our heartfelt gratitude to him for generously giving his time to support and encourage our young musicians.

On Friday 21st February, OGs and guests

gathered in Australia at the Melbourne Club for an enjoyable evening together. The event brought together: Peter Acton (B70) with Sarah, David Barnett (C55) with Robyn, Tony Bigg-Wither (B52) with Beverley, Geoff Cook (S59) with Rosanne, John Keogh (S53) with Deborah, Daniel Justin (B08), John McCarthy (U60), Larry Scott (B65) with Lucinda, and David Vissenga (B55). Peter Acton reflected, “It was a very pleasant evening in a lovely setting. Even though few of us had been at Downside at the same time, we all felt very much at home in each other’s company.” The group collectively agreed that the gathering was a success and vowed to organise more reunions for OGs in Australia in the future.

The Old Gregorian Golfing Society celebrated the start of the 2025 season with a Centenary Luncheon at Denham Golf Club on Saturday 8th March. Nearly 40 OGs gathered for a memorable afternoon celebrating a century of camaraderie,

Melbourne Dinner

The Fowke Recital Prize

London Dinner

Business Networking event

tradition, and sporting excellence. Speeches were made by the President of St Gregory’s Society, Ken Beedle (R73), Director of Sport, Richard Jones, and Julius Stephens (S64). Denham Golf Club, a long-standing venue for the Society’s Spring Meeting, provided the perfect setting for the occasion. With a century of history behind it and a strong membership looking ahead, the Old Gregorian Golfing Society continues to thrive, bringing together all generations of golfers.

On Friday 14th March, the third Business Networking event took place at Downside, bringing together OGs and current and past parents for a morning of insightful discussion centred on the theme AI: Transforming Business and Innovation. The keynote address was delivered by Matthew Watts (S00), Chief Technology Officer and Co-Founder of Lendflow, who explored how artificial intelligence is reshaping industries, driving efficiency, and creating new opportunities. Reflecting on his journey, Matthew credited his time at Downside with instilling the resilience, strategic thinking, and adaptability that have been key to his success.

Another highlight of the year involved the members of the Petre Society and their guests joining us at Downside on Wednesday 12th March. The day began with Whole School Mass in the Abbey Church for the Solemnity of St Gregory the Great with Abbot Nicholas Wetz presiding. Following Mass, members enjoyed a delicious lunch

in the Butler Room, joined by the Head, Andrew Hobbs, Abbot Nicholas, and Fr Michael Patey. After lunch, guests gathered in the Weld Café to hear updates and visit the new Sixth Form Centre.

In May, a group of pupils and staff had the privilege of exploring the rich history and architecture of Downside School and the Abbey Church, guided by international concert pianist, Philip Fowke (B67). His fascinating narrative traced the development of Downside from its earliest foundations through to the consecration of the Abbey Church in 1935, culminating in a spontaneous and uplifting performance of Widor’s Toccata on the Compton organ.

On Saturday 31 May, Mike Randall, Interim Head and I travelled to Warsaw for a wonderful weekend of celebration, memories and camaraderie. OGs, current pupils and families met for a special Latin Mass at Domus Carmeli, followed by a delicious meal together on the banks of the Vistula. A huge thank you goes to Igor Korczagin (S95) and Rafal Milczarski (S95) for their generosity and hospitality. It was also lovely to catch up with Nikodem Baehr (B21), Tomasz Kluszczyński (C00), Joszko Suchan (B24), Anna Kosińska (C10), Paweł Korczagin (S24), Aleksandra Calicka (I19), and Jędrzej Niepolski (R21).

We were delighted to welcome over twenty OGs and their families back to Downside on Saturday 21st June for their twenty-year reunion. The day began with a celebratory Mass in

Petre Society

the Abbey Church, led by Fr Michael Patey. Aleksander, having just completed his final A Level, led the singing—concluding with the Downside School Song. Afterwards, pupils conducted tours of the School, including the new Sixth Form Centre, and the day culminated in a sun-filled afternoon at the Pavilion, where guests enjoyed the Wanderers cricket match, and younger visitors had fun with bouncy castles and water games alongside Downside pupils. Special thanks go to Ollie Mellotte (S05) for coordinating the 2005 cohort, which also included Raleigh Addington, Luigi Arpino, Hugo Walker, William Carter, Christopher Corry, Matthew Cuffe, Simon Floyd, Nick Galvin, James Gatehouse, Florian GrahamWatson, Anthony Griffin, Will Heaven, Alexander Hobhouse, Ben Jennings, Jack Kelly, Ralph Mathers, Ian Mollison, Henry Palmer, Hugo Walker, Edward Westlake and their families.

As the academic year drew to a close in July 2025, there was a palpable sense of gratitude and pride at all that had been achieved -from Singapore to Warsaw, from the Abbey to the Melbourne Club. The months were filled with moments of reconnection, reflection, and celebration that truly embodied what it means to be part of the Downside community: a global family bound by shared memories, values, and friendships that continue to thrive across generations and continents.

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported Downside over the

past year - whether through financial contributions, sharing your expertise, giving your time, visiting the School, or sending encouraging and informative messages. Your generosity, enthusiasm, and loyalty make a real difference, and we are deeply grateful.

Special recognition must go to Jess Newman, whose dedication, energy, and warmth have been the cornerstone of the Development Office since 2018. Downside will not be quite the same without her smile and commitment.

As we look ahead, I warmly invite you to continue engaging with us - whether you would like assistance in organising a reunion, to make a financial contribution, plan a visit to Downside, or simply staying in touch with the Development Office.

Marketing, Events & Development Manager development@downside.co.uk

Melanie Woods

Philip Fowke Tour

Twenty Year Reunion

Warsaw Dinner