Raven 2023

R AV E N THE

Issue 304

CONTENTS

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RESULTS & ACCOLADES Downside School School Prefects Heads of School Speech Head’s Speech Chair of Governors’ Speech The Gregorian Medal Prizes Exam Results Summary University Entrants

40 COMMUNITY NEWS

2023

84 CHAPLAINCY REPORT 106 SOCIETIES 114 TRIPS 122 REVIEWS & REPORTS Art CCF Drama Music Library Sport

42 SALVETE & VALETE 50 NEWS FROM THE HOUSES Barlow Caverel Isabella Powell Roberts Smythe 80 FROM THE DEVELOPMENT OFFICE

THE EDITORIAL TEAM Editor – Jessica Newman

& Silvia Acosta Santos Design – www.shelleys.co Photography – Downside School

& Xander Casey

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RESULTS ACCOLADES DOWNSIDE SCHOOL SCHOOL PREFECTS HEADS OF SCHOOL SPEECH HEAD’S SPEECH CHAIR OF GOVERNORS’ SPEECH THE GREGORIAN MEDAL PRIZES EXAM RESULTS SUMMARY UNIVERSITY ENTRANTS

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DOWNSIDE SCHOOL 2022/23

The Board of Governors Chair Mr Michael Bernard (to Jan 2023) Mr John Ludlow (from Jan 2023) Governors

Mrs Anne Barrett Mr Hugh Dickinson Mr Charles Griffin Ms Catherine Hughes Mr John Ludlow (to Jan 2023) Mrs Alison Martin Dr Jessica Ogilvy-Stuart Abbot Nicholas Wetz Mrs Terri Wilcox

Head Mr A.R. Hobbs, BA Deputy Head Mr M.P. Randall, BSc Senior Leadership Team Director of Pastoral Care Mrs C.J. Murphy, BSc Director of Human Resources Mrs R. Cox (to May 2023) Director of Human Resources Mrs C. Parr, BA, MA, MCIPD Director of Admissions and Marketing Mrs C. Low Director of Finance Mr A. Cray, FCCA (to February 2023) Director of Development Mrs J. Newman, MinstF (Cert) Director of Estates Mr M. Holden, BSc (to March 2023) Director of Commercial Enterprises Mrs I. Hartnell Bursar Mr D.J. Boswell, BEd (from April 2023)

Academic Leadership Team Head of First to Third Form Mrs M.B. Iglesias Graña, BA Head of Fourth and Fifth Form Mr O.G. Simper, BSc Head of Sixth Form Mr R.C. Rawlins, MA Head of Science, Head of Teaching, Learning and Innovation Mr P. Rigby, BSc Director of Sport Mr R.A. Jones, BA Director of Music Mr J.P.B. McNamara, MA, FRCO, PGDipPerf Director of the Wider Curriculum Mr S.J. Potter, BA House Master of Barlow Mr S.J. Potter, BA House Mistress of Caverel Ms A.L.T. McGarry, BA, MSc, PGDipPsych House Mistress of Isabella Mrs K. Westlake, BA House Master of Powell Mr A. Hamilton House Master of Roberts Mr J. Freeman, BA House Master of Smythe Revd J.R. Storey, BA (to March 2023) House Master of Smythe Mr D. Pollard (from April 2023)

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Assistant House Master of Barlow Mr D. Nichols, BSc Assistant House Mistress of Caverel Mrs H.L. Alcántara, MA Assistant House Mistress of Isabella Miss A.J. Ball Assistant House Master of Powell Mr D. Pollard (to March 2023) Assistant House Master of Roberts Dr J. Tapia Amador, BSc, Ph.D. Assistant House Master of Smythe Mr R.F. Worsman, BSc, MInstP House Parents of Barlow Mrs J. Lewis, Mrs N. Mossman, Ms C. Webb House Parents of Caverel Mrs R. Buckland, Mrs T. Jones House Parents of Isabella Miss A. Ball, Miss B. Ford, Mrs L. Fry, Mrs Z. St. Clair House Parents of Powell Mrs T. Biberger House Parents of Roberts Mrs C. Muse, Mrs H. Scott House Parents of Smythe Mrs S. Filer, Ms L. Nash School Priest Chaplain Fr Michael Patey, BSc, STL Lay Chaplain Mr P. Andrewartha, BA Examinations Officer Mrs C.A. Dietrich, BA Librarian Ms J. Craig, MCILIP, BA Library Assistant Mrs M. Barnes, BA Head of Initial Teacher Training Mrs M.B. Iglesias Graña, BA

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Religious Studies/Theology Mr H.F. Walters, MA Mr J. Freeman, BA Mr M. O’Neill BA, MSc Mr C. Stowell, BA, MA English Mrs J.S. Rainey, BA, MA Miss A.S. Anglim, BA, PgDip, MEd Dr H.J. Kelsh, BA, Ph.D. Ms A.L.T. McGarry, BA, MSc, PGDipPsych Ms R. Shaw, BA, MA, CELTA Mrs H.W. Wilson, BA Mathematics Dr J. Tapia Amador, BSc, Ph.D. Mrs S. Allen, BA, QTS Mr D.H.J. Bryson, BSc, NPQH Miss S.M. Moody, BSc Fr Michael Patey, BSc, STL Mrs F.C. Seggie, BSc Mr W.T. Vaughan, BEng, MEd Physics Mr P. Rigby, BSc Mr D. Hicks, BEd Mr R.F. Worsman, BSc, MInstP Chemistry Mr P.A. Hunt, BSc Mr D.H.J. Bryson, BSc, NPQH Dr M.M. Leatherbarrow, D Phil Biology Mr S.M. Barrett, BSc Mrs H.L. Alcántara, MA Mrs C.J. Murphy, BSc Mr M.P. Randall, BSc Mr R.F. Worsman, BSc, MInstP

Physical Education – Academic PE Mr B.W. Edge, BSc Mrs E.J. Chapman, BA (to March 2023) Mr R.A. Jones, BA Mrs F.C. Seggie, BSc History Mr H.F. Walters, MA Mr M. O’Neill Dr R.J. Sanders, Ph.D. Mr C. Stowell, BA, MA Mrs K. Westlake, BA Geography Mr O.G. Simper, BSc Mr J.D. Dolman, BSc Business and Economics Mr D. Nichols, BSc Mrs J. Eckford, BA Classics Revd J.R. Storey, BA (to March 2023) Dr R. Valente, BA, MA, Ph.D. Modern Languages Mr R.C. Rawlins, MA Mrs C.A. Dietrich, BA Mrs C.E. Dolman, BA Mrs M.B. Iglesias, BA Dr H.J. Kelsh, BA, Ph.D. Mrs E.J. Spurling, BA Design and Technology Mr N.J. Barrett, BEd Mr S.J. Potter, BA Art Mrs E.C. Williams, BA Miss K. Ellis, BA, MA Miss L. Cotterell

History of Art Dr R.J. Sanders, Ph.D. Music Mr J.P.B. McNamara, MA, FRCO, PGDipPerf Mr G.D. Bevan, MMus, ARCO, ARCM Mr D. Arcoleo, BA Mr C.P. Baker Mr A.R. Bevan, MA Mrs G.A. Cleverley, BA Music, LRSM, DipLCM Mr S.R. Crockatt, BMus Ms A. Carroll, BA Mr J.R. Hughes, BMus, PGDip. Miss J. Jobbins, MA, BMus, LRAM, ATCL Mr S.P. Jobbins Mr T.V. Jones, BA Mr S.D.H. Jones, BMus Mr R.R. Kerr, MA Mrs C.N.C. Maggs, BA Mrs E.J. Mullins, BMus Mr M.H. Packman, BMus, LTCL Ms A. Redman Miss K.M. Robey, BA Mr C.M. Sheldrake, BMus, ARCM, Dip.RCM Mr R.C. Stubbings, BA Drama Ms A.L.T. McGarry, BA, MSc, PGDipPsych Ms P.A. Schofield, BA Miss B. Ackerley Dance Ms S. Sigley, BA Psychology Mrs A.J. Willoughby, BSc Sport Mr R.A. Jones, BA Mr H. Brooking, BSc Mrs E.J. Chapman, BA (to March 2023) Mr B.W. Edge, BSc Mr C. O’Rourke, BSc Mrs F.C. Seggie, BSc Mr A. Taylor, BSc The Raven 2023

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Learning Support Mrs C.L. Storey, BA, PG Dip. SpLD, AMBDA Mrs R.T.H. Burke, Cert.Ed, Dip.SLD Mr M. Field Ms L. Howley Dr A.M. Jeffries, MA, DPhil, CPTAAA, MEd, APC Mrs F.C. Seggie, BS Mrs A.C. Sherrard, BA, PDip in Dyslexia and Literacy Mrs P.J. Witt, BA, AMBDA English as an Additional Language Mrs A.E. Maistrello, BA, Cambridge DELTA, PGDE Mrs L. Williams, BA, MA, Cambridge CELTA Computing Mr I.J. Ramsden, BSc Mrs S. Allen, BA, QTS Graduate Assistants Miss L Cotterill (Performing Arts) Mr R. Staines (Sports) Mr F. Boarder (Sports) Miss B Culverwell (Sports) Miss V Goryun(Sports) Head of Outdoor Education and School CCF Instructor CPO D. Pollard (CCF) Technicians Mrs M. Ryder, BSc (Science - Senior) Ms S. Essex, BSc (Science) Mr H. Howard (Design Technology) Mr A. Millard (Physics) Medical Staff Doctors Dr N. Solman Dr B. Devlin

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Nurses and Health Centre Practitioners Ms M. Pye (Head of Nursing) BSc, RMN, SCPHN CASH Mrs L. Gray, BSc. Nursing, RGN, RSCN Mr S. Henderson, FDSC Paramedic Mrs J. Kinnear, RGN Bank Nurses and Health Centre Practitioners Mrs A. Aherne, RGN Counselling Mr G. Eggar Mr B. Lansdell Ms S. Swallow Mrs P. Woodford Support Staff Mrs A. Pickering - Senior Accounts Clerk Mrs C. Gould – Accounts Assistant (Billing) Mrs S. Hansford – Accounts Assistant (Purchase Ledger) Mrs R. Moran - Admissions Officer (to January 2023) Mrs L. Waller – Admission Assistant (from January 2023) Mrs S. Carter - Admissions Assistant and Receptionist Mrs S. Kieck - Catering Manager Miss P. Owen, BA, MSc. - Development Assistant (to April 2023) Miss S. Acosta Santos, BA, MMus Development Assistant (from June 2023) Mrs A. Hurle - Domestic Services Manager Ms V. Locke - Clerk to the Governors Mrs H. Brady, BA - Health Centre Administrator Mrs K. Walker, BMus – PA to the Head Mrs S. Faloon, B.Com - Head of Facilities Management (Soft FM) Mrs M. Heywood, BA, Assoc CIPD - Human Resources Advisor (to December 2022) Mrs C. Penny, Assoc CIPD – Human Resources Advisor (from February 2023) Mrs K. Nascimento - Human Resources Assistant

Mr S. Tighe - ICT Network Manager (to December 2022) Mr D. Cejrowski - ICT Technician and Helpdesk Supervisor (to November 2022) Mr L. Bolt, BA - First Line Support ICT Technician Mrs C. Brice – Learning Support and Exams Administrator Mrs E. Gardiner - Maintenance Administrator Mrs M. Woods, BSc, MA – Marketing Manager Miss A. Kinnear, BSc – Marketing Assistant Mr C. Anstey - Minibus Driver Mr M. Carter - Minibus Driver Mrs H. Ettle - Minibus Driver Mr R. James - Minibus Driver Mr L. Turner – Minibus Driver Ms P. Rees-Jones, BMus, MA - Music Administrator Ms N.J. Child, HND - Music Administrator (Timetabling) (to December 2022) Mrs S. Hockey – Receptionist Mrs A. Williams – Receptionist Mrs L. Cray, BA – School Administrator (to January 2023) Mrs R. Moran – School Administrator (from January 2023) St Scholastica Community Mr C. Valdes Raczynski Mr P. Soza Ovalle Mr V. Tagle Cox Mr R. Vidal Hidalgo Building, Engineering and Grounds Team Mr S. Eade, Head Grounds Person Mr A. Colebrook, Grounds Person Mr M. Cooper, Compliance Technician Mr J. Dowling, Senior Electrician Mr I. Holder, Senior Builder Mr G. Holder, Carpenter Mr J. Langley, Electrician Mr P. Mairs, Painter & Decorator Mr F. Pugsley, Deputy Clerk of Works, and Plumber Mr C. Watts, Gardener/Handy Person

Domestic Services Team Mr M. Coles, Supervisor Mrs L. Beale Miss C. Carter Mrs S. French Mrs T. Gould Mrs C. Gregory Mr M. Hill Mrs S. Martin Miss C. Milsom Mrs C. O’Neill Miss G. Northam Mr L. Parfitt Mrs J. Purnell Mr P. Rogers Mrs M. Simmons Mrs C. Simpson Mrs S. Stenner Mrs H. Stephens Mrs J. Stevenson Miss A. Tomiczek Mrs L. Warriner Additional Support Bank Staff Exam Invigilators Ms J. Anderson Mrs J. Chapman Mr D. Costley-White (to January 2023) Mrs B. Freeman Mrs J. Gibbs Mrs S. Macey Mr P. Morgan Mr A. Stroop Pupil Chaperones Mrs M. Barnett Mrs R. Hunt Ms S. Jones Mrs S. Macey Ms N. McCutcheon Mrs M. Melotte Mr A. Stroop Ms A. Taylor

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SCHOOL PREFECTS Heads of School: Anna Hayhurst (Caverel) Frederick Whitaker (Roberts) Deputy Heads of School & Deputy Head of First to Third Form Yan Hang (Dylan) Chan (Smythe) Ebanehita Eigbefoh (Caverel) Maria Materna (Isabella) Head of Barlow: Alexander Di Pietrantonio Head of Caverel: Maya Strauss Head of Isabella: Valentine Lesault Head of Powell: Yan Hang (Dylan) Chan (Smythe) Head of Roberts: Archie Smellie Head of Smythe: Matthew Stanislas Deputy Head of Barlow: Ivan Boas Syed Deputy Head of Caverel: Laila Akenzua Al Kareem Deputy Head of Isabella: Scarlett Vaux Deputy Head of Powell: Caspar Shaw (Roberts) Deputy Head of Roberts: Tsun Shing (Jason) Au Deputy Head of Smythe: Ivor Jones Head of Chaplaincy: Anna Hayhurst Head of Sacristy: Maya Strauss Head of Sacristy: Pedro Puente Hervella

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Barlow House Prefects: Jude Bennett, Oliver Flynn, Joseph Last-Sutton,Yi Chak (Luis) Tang Caverel House Prefects: Annabel Walker, Olivia Mossman, Oliwia Malek, Hoi Ling Tang Ching Kiu (Gladys) Chi,Yan Cheuk (Kristy) Ko, Ruby Morling Ritchie Isabella House Prefects: Maria Diamond, Eleanor Howlett, Pui Yin Huang, Arianwen Ramruttun, Scarlett Ridge, Joccoaa Weatherhead Powell House Prefects: Sebastian Baker, Aristo Cham, Ka Wai Cheng, Constantin Eisenkopf, James Freely, Charlie Hayhurst, Toby Jones,Yvo Melotte, George Moorhouse, Rupert Sharifi, Oliver Westlake, Ormond Yeung Roberts House Prefects: Samuel Boas Syed, Pedro Puente Hervella, Ching Yu (Ryan) Yuen, Caspar Shaw Smythe House Prefects: Charlie Boarder, Zachary Healey, Leo Matthews, Long Tung (Ambrose) Mui, Thomas Pike, Ayrton Rose, Oliver Webb

HEADS OF SCHOOL SPEECH Good afternoon, and a big welcome to all teachers, pupils, governors, and families, especially those who have travelled from far away.

Anna and I were discussing what the main points were going to be for this speech, as it is our final opportunity to speak in front of you all. We came up with a few categories that we felt were most important to us, which can resonate with you, regarding leavers, parents and pupils carrying on throughout the School. We spoke about the 2023 leavers and our time here at Downside, the opportunities that Downside provides, and how to make the most of them.

This is quite a special moment for us both, as it is our final day

here, alongside the rest of the Upper Sixth, some have been here since First Form, that’s seven years, which is a very long time. From the First and Second forms, where our year was yet to feel complete, with girls and boys lacking familiarity and communicating less with one another, to the Third Form, where a whole new bulk of Downside pupils join from all over the world. It is in the Third Form that the dynamic changes.

You are more integrated with your year in the Powell dayroom (one of many places our year

group got banned from). We all joined the CCF, and it was very exciting beginning this new chapter, where we could take part in night exercises and the bronze Duke of Edinburgh, even though some of us got lost!

For the boys, after Third Form, we moved into the Senior Houses. We were classed now as senior pupils, although we did not always act like it. The Fourth Form was tricky for our year, as COVID hit, and we were forced to work online, which for many of us was a shock and a struggle. However, we came

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back in Fifth Form in year group bubbles and continued to do our adapted GCSEs. This year was unlike any other for most people, and it taught us to embrace a new way of learning and deepen connections with one another, despite being online and separate for many months. By our Lower Sixth year, many more people joined, and our year became closer as a result and more mature (maybe). This is when our year started to make more of an effect on the senior teams and started to make our impact on the School, as you become more confident in yourself.

Finally, we reached Upper Sixth. This is the hardest year, but quite possibly the year where the most change in character takes place; as we take on leadership positions, and we started to properly look towards the future.

A Levels are very challenging, as I am sure everyone knows, or will find out! But it’s also a good way to prove to yourself that you can achieve with hard work and determination. Although, even with our exams, we still had time to rest this term. We played volleyball or football and continued to enjoy the other aspects of Downside life. Some may say it is astonishing that our year has come this far, if you knew some of us in Third Form, you will be surprised to see how much we have grown.

We hope that by sharing with

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Downside is evolving, it is not the same, and it should not be, it is constantly being pushed to become better and better. you our time throughout School, it will reassure some of you pupils that it will work itself out.

We also have been through a long journey, with many similar struggles to get to where we are today, and to create some lifelong friendships.

Downside as you know has a key aim to develop the character and confidence of young people through cocurricular opportunities. Music has been a big part of Downside for generations. For Anna and me, music has been a very predominant part of our lives, alongside so many others here.

Music has allowed friendships to grow, and artistic nature to shine through. This was seen last night, during Music for a Summer’s Evening, If you missed it this year, you should watch it next year. It showed Downside’s enthusiasm for creativity and fun.

The sport has improved dramatically over our time here, thanks to our excellent coaches who are always willing to put on extra 1-to-1 sessions or group sessions to improve your skills.

The girl’s sport has developed so much over the past few years, with all the girls so determined to better themselves. One

thing that sets Downside sports apart from many other schools, is that no matter whether we win or lose we are not bitter or arrogant, we learn from our losses and we take the wins in our stride. Furthermore, there are so many more aspects to get involved in, and from experience, it is so worth it as we have created friendships which are so unexpected and keep the community alive.

We have always seen Downside radiate a specific type of atmosphere, created through its teachers and pupils alike. It is hard to put into words, but we almost regard this as Downside’s spirit; a spirit that is one of a kind and makes Downside truly unique. It may be the Catholic nature, which is no question at the heart of Downside life, or it may be its old heritage, that has gradually shaped Downside to be what it is. We think it is important that we acknowledge these fundamental aspects as throughout our years here, we have experienced so much change, but the Downside spirit has never wavered. I think any OGs here today can agree with me when we say that.Yet, Downside is evolving, it is not

the same, and it should not be, it is constantly being pushed to become better and better. As we see a new modernity arising here, we look to the future with optimism, and I am excited about what is to come. As we leave the School, we trust in you, the pupils, to maintain the Downside spirit and help your School to continue in the right direction, so it can be the best it can be, and so people can have even more opportunities than what we have now.

Finally, we would like to thank everyone on behalf of the Upper Sixth Form. All the staff and faculty who have helped us through our journey, whether it is the House staff and teachers, or the cleaners and caterers, who do so much, and always find a way to brighten up everyone’s day even, with a small chat. We would also like to say a personal thank you from both of us to Mr Hobbs, for giving us this amazing opportunity to be Heads of School this year. Best of luck to Dolu and Bea, who will be next year’s Heads of School.

Thank you.

Anna Hayhurst and Freddie Whittaker

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HEAD’S PRIZE DAY SPEECH Ernest Shackleton is someone for whom I have the utmost admiration. Defying his father’s aspirations for him to pursue a career in medicine, he instead set his heart on being the first person to reach the South Pole.

He made two attempts, on the second of which, in 1907, he got within touching distance before he had to turn back. Then to his enormous disappointment in 1911 his rival, a Norwegian explorer, Roald Amundsen, beat him to it. Undeterred, Shackleton made it his new goal to be the first to make an expedition across the continent of Antarctica, passing through the South Pole.

He set out on the ship, Endurance, in August, 1914, along with twenty-six companions. They never even made it to Antarctica. In January, the ship became ice-locked near South Georgia in the Southern Atlantic. Shackleton and his men had to abandon the ship and return home.

So, no prizes for Shackleton and perhaps, as he and his men survived on the ice for several months and only managed narrowly to escape when the spring came, he might have been thinking he should have listened to his father and become a doctor! Not a bit of it. Even if

he’d failed to achieve what he set out to do, he was unquestionably growing into the person he felt called to be. What makes the story of the Endurance so remarkable is that throughout the whole ordeal, no one died. There was no mutiny. His companions did not resort to self-interest but worked with and for each other until they returned home safe.

Far from failing, Shackleton was entirely successful in fulfilling his vocation to be a polar explorer.

Goals are important but they sometimes need adapting as the story of Shackleton powerfully demonstrates and I think this story has resonance as we gather here today. Goals are essential in schools, but it is vital for schools not to become too narrowly focused on the achievement of targets, obtaining qualifications and accumulating certificates or awards. If viewed principally from this perspective, the true value of education can become obscured.

Education at its most powerful is about formation, about discerning who we are and establishing

what contribution we can most valuably make. Trophies are great, they are encouraging, and they are invariably well deserved but they are incidental to who we are, they do not define us. Those who use them as foundations to build upon find they are building on sand. Ernest Shackleton was building on rock, he followed his calling and his actions derived from that conviction, whether it brought accolades or not.

Recently I was asked most disarmingly by a twelve-yearold prospective pupil what I most enjoy about being the Head at Downside. I’m not sure how convincingly I answered at that particular moment as the question came hot on the heels of receiving a call to inform me that the arrival of school inspectors was imminent. ‘Enjoy’ was not the first word that sprang to mind in that moment! But actually, that question and my unlikely questioner were exactly what I needed to shock me out of my immediate thoughts of inspection, as it made me appreciate what a

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great privilege my responsibility gives me. My considered answer to that question is that I am continually struck by how immensely rewarding it is to be able to play a part in the ongoing formation of young people and to belong to a community in which pupils, their parents, staff and governors are genuinely engaging with that process, not simply taking part in a transaction, not doing things because they will look good on a UCAS form, or because they will promote us in a league table or fill up our trophy cabinets. Children cannot be seen as commodities, who feel judged and measured merely on their output, but rather must be treated as valued individuals who are encouraged and nurtured to explore and understand their strengths and weaknesses, not to hate and hide their imperfections but to recognise them with humility and sometimes even celebrate them, adopting an attitude of openness to growth and change.

Let me share a few examples of what I enjoy. I love the fact that the recent applicants for the position of Head of School put themselves forward, not because they want power or status, but out of a genuine desire to serve their community. I rejoice that one of our pupils last week chose to spend time teaching Maths to junior pupils whilst he was still in the middle of his A Levels.

I find it hugely enjoyable

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to watch our sports teams so obviously motivated by the joy of playing, whatever the eventual result of the match, or to attend the newly established Cloister concerts where, whether the performer is a beginner or at diploma standard, they are encouraged and celebrated as musicians, not judged as technicians. It is uplifting to observe the culture of the House debating competition, where team captains encourage younger pupils to participate, allowing them to learn and grow. One experienced debater mentioned recently how much she had learned from her novice teammate.

As any teacher knows, we learn most when we engage in teaching someone else and as St. Francis’ famous prayer reminds us: ‘It is in giving that we receive’, an irony exemplified only too clearly by the visit of a group from the Pilar School in Mexico, whom we welcomed last week and from whom we gained so much.

I love the fact that the speakers at this term’s Hymn Practice talks have been almost exclusively given by pupils, pupils who have wanted to share a message which is important to them and have felt the confidence to do this. I have been struck by their courage but also by the warmth and generosity of their peers whose spontaneous and genuine applause have resonated in demonstration of their support. I love the

generosity shown by our senior pupils to commit their time and energy to participating in the communities of St. John, St. Luke and St. Teresa, supporting Lectio groups, the sacramental life and the culture of service in our School. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg!

This is Downside’s distinctiveness and I think it was this that led recent visitors to the School to remark how invested and committed in the School community they felt both pupils and staff were, on the warmth of the relationships, the energy they observed around the School and the openness and maturity of our pupils. This is not something which happens by chance, nor is it something which can be taken for granted.

The word ‘normal’ has enjoyed the limelight in the last couple of years, but we should be cautious about being seduced by the comfort we associate with normality nor see it as an attractive destination, even if it is dressed up with its now familiar accompanying adjective ‘new’.

Formation must be ongoing. Our commitment to transformation remains strong and is at the heart of our Benedictine roots.

To be able to announce that we will have a new Sixth Form Centre in the Pollen Wing, using what was previously the Monks’ refectory is enormously exciting. This is a fantastic space, which can be quickly and easily

It has been a privilege to work with you this last year.

Your commitment and energy provides the fuel on which Downside runs and I am hugely grateful to every one of you, whatever your role. redesigned and adapted to enhance the experience of our Sixth Formers, providing them with a facility specifically tailored to their needs and affording them greater independence as they study and spend their leisure time. We will of course be careful to maintain and develop further the strong foundation of service which is dependent on our Sixth Form pupils fully engaging in the leadership of the School and in their Houses.

Our model for leadership is rooted in the Rule of St. Benedict. We have been enormously blessed to have such a fruitful relationship with the Manquehue Apostolic Movement, and particularly to have the support of the St. Scholastica Community, established in 2015, whose members today comprise Cristobal, Rodrigo and Vicente, joined for a large part of this year by Pascual. They provide a wonderful example of Benedictine leadership, serving our community selflessly.

They embody the Word of God without ever attempting to impose it, helping to foster the strong spiritual friendship which lies at the centre of our

relationships. Whilst Downside has undergone considerable structural change in recent times, the St. Scholastica Community has helped us to renew and strengthen our commitment to our core purpose as a Catholic and Benedictine School. As they return to Chile for a period of discernment whilst they prepare for the election of a new Superior for their community, we wish them well and assure them of our prayers. We have been building on rock and we will continue to develop the transformative work they have begun with us so that when they return, we can show them what we have done with the talent they have entrusted to us. I’m sorry I’m mixing my parables! Whilst it is au revoir to Cristobal, Rodrigo and Vicente, Pascual is leaving us. We thank him for his work here. We hope he will remain in touch and visit us again.

This then is a good moment to say a few words about the other staff who are leaving us, but before I do, I’d like to thank all the staff, whether they are staying or leaving.

It has been a privilege to work with you this last year.Your

commitment and energy provides the fuel on which Downside runs and I am hugely grateful to every one of you, whatever your role. I thank also your families, without whose support you could not give so much commitment to Downside. I owe so much to mine and particularly my wife, Damaris, whom I want to thank.

We have been wonderfully lucky again to have such a talented group of Resident Sports Assistants. Valeria and Finlay have been with us for just one year, but they have shone brightly and their impression on our community will be lasting.

Powered by Duracell, Becky has kept going twice as long but has now decided to head back to her native Scotland. I’m delighted that Becky and Finn are remaining in education and taking the next steps to becoming teachers.

All three have been exemplary in their generous commitment and willingness to adapt to what is needed. I extend my sincere thanks to them as I do to Lydia, our Artist in Residence. She is intelligent, calm and infectiously cheerful and I thank her for bringing the joy of Art to the centre of the School and making

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it so accessible and fun.

Beth Ackerley’s story has been like many others at Downside. Her time here has extended from what she and we initially envisaged, and her role has evolved. She arrived as a graduate assistant with specific responsibility for providing technical support in the theatre. She leaves us as a teacher of drama with her PGCE completed. She’s also become a highly valued and respected Caverel House tutor, a swimming coach and a generous contributor to Downside’s rich co-curricular programme.

Harry Brooking arrived as a Graduate Assistant as we emerged from Lockdown. For the last two years, he has been the development lead for Hockey and a central figure in promoting the positive and healthy sporting culture at Downside. As a major sport for girls and boys, he has taken his opportunity to instil strong values and embed good habits which go beyond the sporting arena and will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on our community. My thanks to you Harry and best of luck for the future.

Darren Nichols’ contribution has been wide-ranging and generous over the last three years.

He has headed up the Economics and Business Studies department, whilst playing the vital supporting role in Barlow House as Assistant

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House Master. It is more than a coincidence that during that time the Barlow boys’ singing at House Music seems to have become more melodious! I am grateful to him for that! He has also had a harmonising effect on the 2nd XI football team which has thrived under his tutelage.

Rory Worsman’s contract states that he is a teacher of Physics and Biology but as we all know

Our Governors help to ensure we remain on a constant cycle of improvement, and I thank them for it.

Rory’s contribution has been so so much more. He has been a stalwart of the sports coaching team, a key member of the CCF, an exceptionally committed tutor and previously Assistant House Master in Smythe House, a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead, and for good measure over the past year responsible for the Sixth Form lecture programme.

He’s a cyclist to boot and I have no doubt he would be the most

sought-after domestique on any team.You leave with our very best wishes, Rory and we look forward to seeing you when you are on the touchline as you will no doubt visit with sports teams.

And finally, we come to Karen Westlake. Karen’s contribution has been immense during her six years with us. She has worked with extraordinary commitment for the girls of Isabella and championed them in all they do. She has also enriched our whole School community. Her cheerful, can-do attitude is priceless, as is her unshakable loyalty. Karen’s high standards as a House Mistress are replicated in her work as a History teacher.

She will be greatly missed in the classroom, where she inspires great confidence in her pupils, and they invariably achieve beyond their expectations. We owe her an enormous debt of gratitude as she leaves us and hands over a House community in wonderful health.You will always be welcome here.

As we did last year, I want to recognise each one of our departing Upper Sixth, to thank and congratulate you in a small way for what you have contributed to our community, regardless of whether you have won a prize or not. But I want to take this moment to thank you as a group for your companionship as we have travelled together on your educational journey. We

are extremely sad that you are leaving us but excited for you as you strike out and travel onwards and we wish you the very best of luck as you do. We will miss you but can enjoy what we have learnt from you during your time with us. We hope very much you will stay in touch in the coming years.

Now I would like to express my thanks to this year’s Heads of School, Anna and Freddie, for whom I have enormous admiration. They are highly impressive individuals, fully committing to every aspect of School life but they are entirely down to earth. Their warmth, authenticity, and ability to connect with others has meant that they are genuinely approachable. They have worked fantastically well together, and I am extremely grateful to them for their support and hard work over the course of the year. They have remained calm, composed, and above all cheerful, whilst managing their extensive commitments alongside their responsibilities with immense maturity. I have looked forward to our meetings and valued their input which has been sensible, considered and most importantly, at all times, honest. They have been wonderful ambassadors for the School. I look forward to watching their progress beyond Downside. To say thank you, 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 Anna and Freddie and I am delighted to announce that next year’s Heads of School are Bea Garrett and Dolu Aina. I very much look forward to working with them.

Before I end there are a few more people I would like to thank. Firstly, our hugely committed governing body under John’s leadership, for their enormously generous support for us as a School. It should be remembered that Governors are volunteers, and they do what they do selflessly with their work is very often unseen. My sincere thanks go also to our previous Chair, Michael Bernard, who I am delighted is here today with his wife Catherine. It is wonderful too to have Caroline Aylward with us today. Adrian was our first Lay Chair of Governors and we have so much to thank him for. A great deal has been achieved, but there is much still to do. Our Governors help to ensure we remain on a constant cycle of improvement, and I thank them for it.

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. We recognise that we at the School are custodians of an organisation which means so

much to those who have gone before us and those of you who have had a long or indeed short association with Downside. We thank you for trusting us with this responsibility and hugely value your ongoing support.

I’d like to say how especially grateful we are to you, the parents, for the trust you have shown in us and for working with us. We try always to ensure that our relationship is one of partnership rather than transaction. Education is an expedition of discovery.

Hopefully, the perils we encounter as we travel are not as many or as dire as those Shackleton met on his journey, but we thank you for walking alongside us to ensure that your children are able to grow and develop and have life to the full, ready to take on whatever successes and challenges lie ahead for them.

Finally, thank you to my PA, Katie Walker, without whose extraordinary hard work and meticulous planning, today would not have been able to happen (or indeed yesterday or any day for that matter actually). She is here as a parent today as Annabel leaves. I thank Becky Moran also, for assisting you in the preparation of today.

My sincere thanks to you both.

Andrew Hobbs Head

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THE GREGORIAN MEDAL

The first recipient is the embodiment of the values of Downside. She serves as an exceptional role model both within her House and the wider School community, embracing her opportunities and showing dedication in everything she does.

Her commitment to her academic studies is commendable.

She exhibits an exemplary work ethic and perseveres in mastering her chosen A Level subjects.

Additionally, she cheerfully assists her peers, demonstrating her willingness to help others in need.

Her contributions extend beyond the academic realm.

She consistently serves as a positive ambassador, welcoming visitors and is always happy to meet prospective families and provide tours to support the Development and the Admissions departments. Her selfless and thoughtful kindness is evident

20 The Raven 2023

throughout the School, as she quietly assists anyone in need, whether it’s supporting other Houses during lunch duty or offering guidance to those who are lost. Her unwavering commitment to the Chaplaincy Team demonstrates the central role her faith plays in her life.

Within her House, she has proven to be invaluable. Her role as Head of Junior Girls is characterized by kindness and grace, earning the respect and admiration of both staff and pupils. She approaches her responsibilities with a maturity beyond her years and consistently demonstrates her reliability and integrity.

She will be hugely missed, as she has served as an inspiration in her House and in the entire School community. She consistently prioritizes the needs of others, putting aside thoughts for herself. She represents the

School’s values perfectly and is unquestionably a most deserving recipient of the Gregorian Medal.

Maria Materna

The second Gregorian Medal is awarded to a truly remarkable young man, who has made the very most of all the opportunities life at Downside has brought him and has exemplified the Benedictine values of our School community.

He is highly gifted academically and successfully took on the challenge of taking four A Levels alongside all his other commitments which are extensive. But there has never been a conflict between working for the highest grades and freely giving so much time to service.

He has been central to Downside’s music for a number of years. As a percussion player, he teaches younger boys who join him in Concert band or percussion line-up. When Steve Jobbins has been unable to take a rehearsal for the percussion line-up, he has stepped up and done an excellent job. He’s a natural teacher and is patient and encouraging. He has also been a stalwart in the choir, swelling its numbers by bringing others with him and has recently become a regular soloist.

He brings people together

and can often be found in the main hall in conversation with pupils from all walks of School life. As Head of Powell he has set the highest of examples with his integrity, reliability, compassion and care for the boys and the ease with which he can work with the staff is remarkable. Always smart, punctual, and hard-working, no task is ever “beneath him”. The boys of Powell confide in him and readily seek his advice. He is also extremely highly regarded by his peers.

Dylan Chan

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Good afternoon.

As I walk the corridors of our School, I feel the love inspired by the gospels within our culture.

Truly I see the Word living among pupils and staff. The School under Andrew’s leadership and in the care of our staff is a very special place.

Those that know me will know that I do not wear rose-tinted glasses, with so many years of my life spent managing risks and crises, for thousands of hotels around the world, I am very aware of what can go wrong in life.

I look to the future and travel in hope, with a strong sense of purpose, constantly driving transformation towards our vision and building resilience against the perils of the world. My family motto instructs me to neither act rashly nor timidly, this fits well with my life.

During the Covid years, Downside, like so many schools and other businesses has been through a very challenging time and the outlook as we try to recover, with the threat of VAT on fees and full business rates for charitable schools, is no less challenging.

It is very evident that for some years now, Downside has chosen to prioritise spending on pupils’ education over investment in the fabric of the School. Whilst laudable this is not sustainable; we need to actively do both.

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CHAIR OF GOVERNORS SPEECH Ultimately, the way to achieve this is to grow the number of pupils attracted to the School and so increase our income. Put simply we need a plan for growth.

To remain relevant and thrive we must adapt and embrace the changes seen in the education marketplace and deliver on expectations of our families.

Some of this is about raising

the standards of boys’ boarding accommodation to mirror that offered now to the girls.

However, there is another exciting opportunity.

I am pleased to announce today that we are working to deliver in short order a new Sixth Form Centre. Abbot Nicholas has agreed in principle that we can convert the Monks’ refectory

into a study and leisure area for the Sixth Form. It is a relatively modern room above the Weld Refectory with beautiful views and high ceilings. We hope that this stunning opportunity will boost our numbers in the Sixth Form.

If this goes to plan, we hope to use more of the old monastery over time, to provide the necessary flexibility needed to refurbish the Boarding Houses and build the School offering further.

This is a vision that will take some years to realise but every journey requires the first step.

At the same time, we must continue to strive to renew and strengthen our roots as a Catholic community, building relationships at home and internationally, to continue to be a School which serves our world through its formation and education of young people.

The Pastoral aspects of Downside’s vision are in excellent shape. This is a Catholic and Benedictine School with Christ at its centre, it is a bright light in education and inspires service in our world. A special thanks to all involved in the chaplaincy team here at Downside, it is very special and unique.

A Downside education aims to deliver excellence in added academic value, both for the strong and the less able. We want to help each pupil, and all, to become the very best

Learning to survive and thrive in life’s turmoil, whilst guided and powered by vocation, ensures that over time the right treasures are sought, and better decisions are made. they can be, identifying and fostering talents in a way that both celebrates differences in individuals and in the collective strengths of our community. As a Cornishman, I must promote our county motto of One and All. As an Old Gregorian, I hope you will continue to be part of our community for the rest of your days.

In typical Benedictine fashion, pupils’ strengths are stretched, and weaknesses are supported.

The immediate outcome is of course about strong examination results but also a person able to grow and succeed, in good times and bad, into people who find a way to fulfilment.

Downside is highly distinctive in the world of education in how it teaches knowledge, skills and develops competencies, in the classroom, through a vast range of extra curricula experiences but most impressively through the diverse community of people that come together to support pupils through our purpose, values, beliefs and Benedictine traditions.

Downside equips pupils to live a purposeful and rewarding life, lived for the benefit of others.

A Downside education is I believe the best way to help pupils start their journey of understanding their life’s ultimate purpose, equipping them to define success for themselves and to discover a role that is truly worthwhile, motivating and rewarding. I wish all our leavers all the best life has to offer.

Understanding God’s purpose for ourselves in the context of eternal life, helps us question and identify, which treasures are worth striving for and which we should let go.

We all want to be successful, and our own definition of success will likely change as we progress and so too must the way we live our lives. Success is seldom final, and failure is seldom fatal.

Learning to survive and thrive in life’s turmoil, whilst guided and powered by vocation, ensures that over time the right treasures are sought, and better decisions are made.

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We must strive to travel in hope and act in love, keeping God at the centre of our lives.

We must transform from thinking about self to acting for others. How we achieve success is just as important as what we achieve.

When I was asked to become the Chair, I wrote myself a prayer and I will end my words with it but first I want to say a few more words of thanks.

We are blessed by having a good and strong relationship with The Community of St Gregory the Great, we thank them for their support and for the support they give to the Manquehue movement who with Fr Michael and our chaplaincy team together have kept the light of Christ burning brightly. Through the Mass, retreats, daily prayers and the work of the St Scholastica groups, through Lectio Divina and tutoria, pupils and staff have generally grown and engaged with their spiritual lives. I characterise the development of maturity I have seen over the years, as moving from being a

24 The Raven 2023

parent-child relationship between monks and both pupils and staff to an adult-to-adult relationship with God. We owe a huge vote of thanks to the governors and staff in the School for their excellent work, engagement, determination and consistency of purpose especially within the context of Covid, and the increased cost of living that has impacted us all.

On behalf of the governors and staff, I thank all of you, parents, for not only partnering with them to form your sons and daughters but also for paying your fees on time and in full so we can pay the staff wages. These are not easy times for our School which is recovering from the cascading global crises that have blighted our world in recent years. Every penny counts.

The School owes a huge debt to our whole community.

The School has only survived because of the generosity of the Community of St Gregory the Great, Old Gregorians and the Friends of Downside, those still living and those that have gone

before us.

The 1814 Society is the Society for giving to the School today and the Petre Society is for giving a legacy to either the Monastic Community or the School. It would be remiss of me not to recommend both to you and thank everyone who is supporting us on our journey of recovery, resilience to strength. Well, let’s be fair, it would not be a Catholic gathering without a collection plate!

Please join me in a moment of reflection after I share my prayer: Lord, please do not let me work alone, send me help to do your will.

May we travel in hope and act with love.

May those that are in our charge flourish.

Together, may we light the world and inspire others to love you.

Amen.

Thank you.

John Ludlow Chair of Governors (C82)

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THE OLD GREGORIAN MEDAL AND HONORARY OG MEMBERSHIPS Good morning, ladies & Gentlemen Unusually not only am I awarding the Old Gregorian Medal, but I am also awarding four Honorary OG Memberships to some exceptional people who have contributed a great deal to Downside.

The St Scholastica Community/ Manquehue Apostolic Movement have made an outstanding contribution to the spiritual life of the School for over eight years with their leadership of Lectio Divina, the traditional monastic practice of scriptural reading, meditation and prayer.

It was in January 2015 that a community was set up to live and work at Downside. The current team are returning to Chile for a re-group, and we hope that they will continue their presence at Downside next year.

I would like to ask, Cristobal Valdes, Rodrigo Vidal and Vicente Tagle to come and receive their

26 The Raven 2023

Old Gregorian ties.

The last fifteen years at Downside has seen a lot of change and turbulence, the School has separated from the monastery and the monks have moved to Southgate House, Buckfast not to mention the Covid pandemic and all its challenges.

In addition, during this period

there have been investigations and safeguarding issues that have had to be dealt with.

The person who has been closest in many ways to all these changes is the Head, Andrew Hobbs, who originally arrived at Downside as Deputy Headmaster under the last monastic Headmaster Dom Leo.

“

Dom Leo’s memory of his first impression and due diligence.

Before he took up his post, Andrew came to visit at the end of the Summer Term. I had just painted myself into a corner and I was wondering how to get out. Two Upper Sixth boys with unblemished records had decided that once their A Levels were completed, it would be a brilliant idea to give their record a thorough blemishing. I had said that anyone doing that sort of thing would be prohibited from attending the Leavers’ Ball. There was a feeling that while the penalty would be consistent, it might come across as a bit vindictive after so many virtuous years. I asked Andrew what he thought. He suggested telling them they could come provided they had completed a laborious and boring task. Tidying up the Classics book room in the cellars. We settled on that. There was a deft touch of genius I hadn’t spotted.

Andrew had disposed of a chore awaiting him as an incoming member of the Classics Department by getting a couple of bright senior pupils to do it for him before he arrived.

”

I think I first met Andrew in 1975 as a teenager in France. I cannot say that I followed your career at Worth, Cambridge or Canford but for the last fifteen years, I have been able to observe your time and commitment to Downside.

Andrew’s contribution has been outstanding, and I am sure there have been many challenging moments that were not scheduled in your expected career at Downside.

It is therefore with great pleasure that I present you with an OG tie in recognition of all that you have contributed to Downside in so many ways.

OG MEDAL

The award was conceived with the aim to recognise the outstanding contribution an OG has made either to Society as a whole or to St Gregory’s Society.

This year’s recipient has made contributions to both Society and St Gregory’s Society on a large scale.

John Scanlan (S54) is a Papal Knight: Knight Commander of the Pontifical Order of St Gregory the Great, awarded for his charitable work for the church.

John is also a Knight Grand Cross of the Equestrian Order of Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, working to support Christians in

the Holy Land.

In addition to the above John has been awarded Cross of Officer of the Royal Order of Isabela Catolica: CRIC which was awarded by HM King Juan Carlos and the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs in recognition of his contribution to better relations between Spain and England Upon leaving Downside John qualified as a Solicitor and was a partner of the Mayfair Law firm Landau and Scanlan.

After his marriage to his late wife Marina, Spain became very much a part of his life and his enormous contribution to the Anglo-Spanish Society was recognised by an award from the then King of Spain.

Marina was always a great supporter of Downside and I particularly remember her delicious food after Council meetings when John was President of the St Gregory’s Society in the 1980s.

Behind the scenes John has been a marriage counsellor, and a supporter of catholic schools, in particular, St Philip’s which nearly closed; however, it is now a very successful London school.

In addition, he supported the Catholic Order Hospital in Pinner.

On Sunday John could be found in Westminster Cathedral in his role as a Eucharistic Minister. He has

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always been most committed to the Catholic Church and priests in general and I am told his wife awarded him an additional title of “Bishop of Belgravia” where he was living at the time.

Downside is a very special place to John as are OGs. Over the last 50 years, John has contributed in many ways, the most public being the triennial Madrid dinner which he started and is now run by his son James (S86). He has also run Balls and given his wisdom and advice to the OG Council for over half a century as well as managing to go on sixteen OMV Lourdes Pilgrimages.

The former Easter Retreat at Downside run by the Monastic Community for so many years I know is a loss to many and particularly for John, so it is hoped that next May there will be a one-day retreat at Downside.

My apologies for things I may have left out about John Scanlan’s life however as you can observe he is a very worthy winner of the 2023 Old Gregorian Medal.

Jonathan Grew (C77) St Gregory’s Society President

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JOHN SCANLAN THE OLD GREGORIAN MEDAL ACCEPTANCE SPEECH Good afternoon everybody—this presentation has come as a total surprise to me, I doubt if I deserve it, but am delighted to accept it on the basis that I hold it on behalf of all of you, ‘the Downside family’, and those with whom I have worked over the years.

With that in mind, I was talking to Gaiska Ortuzar (S53) recently in Spain. When my late wife, Marina, and I set up the OG triannual dinner in Madrid, nearly 40 years ago, Jon (S49) and Gaiska assisted greatly in marketing at the Spanish end, which they did on numerous occasions. It is also worthy of note that they and their brother, Iñaqui (S50), who all overlapped my period in the School, generously donated the funds, which enabled this hall we’re in this afternoon to be built many years ago.

I must now tell you that, when I was in my last year at Downside, Patrick, a friend of mine in the School, ordered from the School tailor a very smart grey suit to be worn on holidays and high days. In my naivety, I thought I would like to have a similar suit.

I visited the School tailor, who measured me up. A week later, my name appeared on the Head’s

list of pupils he wished to see throughout the working week. It was unusual for a person of my seniority to be asked to see the Head. I kept the appointment and initially had a chat with Fr Wilfred about School matters. He then turned his desk light on my face and said to me ‘I see that you have ordered yourself a new suit’; and I thought how does he know that!

I replied in the affirmative. His next question was, ‘Did you have your father’s consent?’ and then I knew I was in trouble because I hadn’t obtained my father’s prior approval. Fr Wilfred then said that he was going to share a confidence with me. He went on to say, ‘You probably understand that from time to time, schools need to increase their fees, because of inflation and the cost of living.’ He continued, ‘Some three years earlier, the School had sent notices to all the parents to say that the fees were going to be increased to which your father

replied saying that unfortunately, he was unable to afford the increase and that he would have to take you away at the end of the term.’ He told me that he wrote back to my father saying that the School wanted me to remain and that therefore payment at the old rate of fees would be acceptable.

If I had not been allowed to remain at Downside until I was 18, I would never have qualified as a lawyer, when the world opened up for me. My debt to the School will remain for the rest of my life.

After this event this afternoon, some of you will become Old Gregorians. I hope that when you leave, you will remain members of the Downside family and that you will support such activities as the Downside Settlement, which is a club in the East end of London providing sporting facilities and mentoring for underprivileged children, including the use of a swimming

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pool, a football pitch and other sporting activities. I gather that there is a monthly attendance in excess of 600 children aged from 9-18. The Downside Settlement is run chiefly by Old Gregorians.

Then there is the Order of Malta Volunteers, founded by the late Dom Raphael Appleby, who was later joined by Dom Philip Jebb, both monks of Downside and previous Heads of the School. The OMV organises annual pilgrimages for the Sick to Lourdes, where in the region of 40+ sick pilgrims and 100150 young helpers under 30 look after the sick for a whole week 24 hours a day on call and with nurses and doctors. I was nearly 50 years old when I went on my first pilgrimage with the OMV, and had no intention of going more than once, though subsequently changed my mind about this. Within six hours of arriving in Lourdes, when my team leader, aged just 20, asked me to look after Harry, a young man with cerebral palsy, by taking him to the bathroom and showering him, before getting him ready for bed. I’ve never laughed so much in all my life. We were both hysterical throughout this experience. The next day the pilgrimage went en masse to the Lac de Lourdes to swim, picnic

30 The Raven 2023

and socialise. As my younger son had brought with him a rather splendid life jacket, we put this on Harry, who then swam off like a rocket, because in the water he was no longer impeded by his disability. I was privileged to go to Lourdes with the OMV and did so on many subsequent occasions. I loved the exuberance of the young helpers, many of whom were Old Gregorians.

The same organisation runs the White Knights Ball annually at the Grosvenor House Hotel, London with somewhere between 600-1000 young people enjoying themselves, raising money for the next year’s pilgrimage. There are also numerous functions in the UK and elsewhere, where OGs socialise. There are various dinners abroad, including Paris, Madrid, Malta, Hong Kong and the United States of America.

I will then tell you about Kannicha, who is a 20-yearold orphan, who escaped from Myanmar, formerly Burma, who and was brought up in an orphanage in Thailand. She has just completed her first year at university in Bangkok, where she is studying Architecture & Design. She has no parents supporting her and no financial resources but has achieved the impossible by hard work and her

positive personality, where she hopes to obtain a degree. I have meetings with her sometimes on Skype, which are exhilarating.

Although she owns nothing materially, she has everything to look forward to and smiles continually. Her English is improving and I believe will continue to do so.

I would conclude by encouraging you to support one another as well as Downside, and where you can, those who are less fortunate than yourselves.

Remember, a smile can be a prayer, and so too a charitable donation, if you can manage it.

Engaging with the poor, or those in difficulty or need, can also be a prayer and bring us all closer to Almighty God, who created us.

I wish all of you, who are leaving Downside this afternoon, and those who are remaining, every success in the future. I’m sure you will express thanks to your teachers, the Manquehue, and parents or guardians for enabling you to enjoy the Downside experience and all it embraces. Do keep the Faith and remember your good fortune.

Thank you for listening.

John Scanlan (S54)

DOUAI PRIZE The Douai Prize is awarded to a pupil who embodies Benedictine Values.

We are hugely grateful to the Douai Foundation for sponsoring this award and giving us a chance to recognise one of our truly remarkable pupils.

This goes to Maya Strauss.

She has been Head of Caverel, Head of Sacristy, a determined and able pupil, a champion debater, part of the winning mock trial team, and a wonderful sportswoman. She conducted the winning House performance at the House music event.

Her teachers agree that she has been a joy to teach – very able academically and always searching to

improve and make progress.

She has been a positive force within her year group with a sense of reverence, fun, learning and selfdiscipline throughout her time. At a time of change, with Father Michael taking on the role of Priest Chaplain, she has provided vital support as Head of Sacristy and part of St Luke’s community.

The overall sense is of someone who has a deep generosity of spirit and time for others, whilst enjoying life and resolutely taking responsibility for her studies.

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PRIZES FIRST FORM Head’s Prize for Outstanding Academic Achievement Head’s Progress Prize Head’s Essay Prize

Mojolaolu Rachel Oluwadarasimi Awoleke and Oliver Bellord Oliver Hayhurst and Joe Thomas Oliver Bellord

SECOND FORM Head’s Prize for Outstanding Academic Achievement Head’s Progress Prize Head’s Essay Prize

Megan Randall and Sofia Kellock Ryle Amelie Errington and Yiu Ting Lai Yiu Ting Lai

THIRD FORM Head’s Prize for Outstanding Academic Achievement

English Classics French Spanish German Mathematics Computer Science Biology Chemistry Physics History Geography Music Wing Drama Art Design Physical Education

Natasza Wyganowska Isabella Hathaway Natasza Wyganowska Phoebe-Aurelia Rothwell Ermin Cheung Phoebe-Aurelia Rothwell Alice Moorhouse Sofia Betancourt Pulido Phoebe-Aurelia Rothwell Seth Michaels Sakurako Kaihara Louis D’Estampes Vallancey Zuba Kwan Ting Him Ryan Tong Ting Him Ryan Tong Seth Michaels Harriet Makaza Hei Chan Seth Michaels Sakurako Kaihara Sakurako Kaihara Finlay Baker

FOURTH FORM Head’s Prize for Outstanding Academic Achievement Head’s Essay Prize Religious Studies English Classics French

Alexander Karl Eva Errington Edmund Jenkins and Molly Jenkins Molly Jenkins Awele Onunkwo Eva Errington

Head’s Essay Prize Religious Studies

32 The Raven 2023

Spanish German Mathematics Computer Science Biology Chemistry Physics History Geography Drama Music Art Design Physical Education

Awele Onunkwo Alexander Karl Yat Shun Wong Tze Hei Tsang Eloise Pickett Edmund Jenkins Alexander Karl Alexander Karl Edmund Jenkins Isabelle Penny James Mason-Carney Eloise Pickett Alexander Karl Yat Shun Wong

FIFTH FORM Head’s Prize for Outstanding Academic Achievement Head’s Essay Prize Religious Studies English Classics French Spanish German Mathematics Computer Science Biology Chemistry Physics History Geography Economics Music Hiu Art Design Physical Education

Siu Hei Wong and Charles Pike Kara Campbell Meehan Cosima Melotte Charles Pike Charles Pike Isabella Macmillan Euan Elston Siu Hei Wong Hiu Ching Chow Jaime Alique Ortiz Siu Hei Wong Long Chit Alfred Chan Hiu Ching Chow Charles Pike Cosima Melotte Yan Lok Ryan Ng Ching Chow Kara Campbell Meehan Sarah Horstkotte Jemima Keyte

LOWER SIXTH FORM Head’s Essay Prize EPQ Prize Religious Studies English Literature Classics

Joszko Suchan Edith Jenkins Bryn Jennings Jessica Von der Schulenburg Edith Jenkins Beatrice Garrett Jessica Von der Schulenburg The Raven 2023 33

French Spanish Mathematics Computer Science Biology Chemistry Physics History History of Art Geography Music Art Drama Design Psychology BTEC Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Economics Physical Education UPPER SIXTH FORM Religious Studies English Classics French Spanish German Mathematics Computer Science Biology Chemistry Physics History History of Art Geography Economics Business Music Art Design Psychology Physical Education

34 The Raven 2023

Aubrey Melotte and Edith Jenkins Suza Jolliffe Beatrice Garrett Aleksandra Mulewicz Ka Wai Cheng Beatrice Garrett Beatrice Garrett Hin Kai Hui Hugo Tuchenhagen Ella Standivan Lucia McNally Pawel Korczagin Ella Standivan and Maya Krishan Xitong Cao Doluwamu Aina Isabelle Rickards and Bryn Jennings Charles Hayhurst Joline Han Katherine Pughe-Morgan Joccoaa Weatherhead Kristy Ko Scarlett Ridge Laila Akenzua Al-Kareem Laila Akenzua Al-Kareem Maria Materna Arianwen Ramruttun Maria Diamond Yan Hang Chan Maria Diamond Pui Yin Huang Luis Tang Maria Materna Maria Materna Kristy Ko Ching Kiu Chi Charles Boarder Yan Hang Chan Ruby Morling-Ritchie Caspar Shaw Laila Akenzua Al-Kareem Chin Kiu Chi Joseph Last-Sutton

SCHOOL AWARDS The Junior Cup for Art The Library Prize The Best Junior Cadet The Junior Cup for Boys’ Sport The Junior Cup for Girls’ Sport The Brendan Lavery Mathematics Prize The Byrne Brass Trophy The Individual Debating Prize The British Legion Prize The Individual Chess Trophy The Inter-House Chess Cup The Carol Matthews Cup for Inter-House Science The Turnbull Cup for Outstanding Sport Achievement The Mackenzie Cup The James Lewis Prize The Marcus Atkinson Award The Timothy Fogg Poetry Prize The Squire Mathematics Prize The Matthews Organ Cup The Schola Cantorum Prize The Tambling Cup Tsun The Abingdon Cup for Debating The Tighe Medal for Artistic Endeavour The Barran Drama Prize The CCF Prize The Regimental Sergeant Major Cup The RSM WO1 R Nicholas Prize The Hugh Watts Cup for the Most Improved Rugby Player 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 R.R. Stokes Memorial Prize The Sweats Cup The Douai Prize

Megan Randall Makuochukwu Ugwuoke Amelie Murphy Oscar Rooney Abigail Storey Ngo Ming Yeung Pawel Korczagin Edith Jenkins Oliver Westlake Luis Tang Smythe House Caverel House Rosie Rooney Deborah Thomas and Luc Joy Long Tung Mui Kristy Ko Frederick Whitaker Yan Hang Chan Kristy Ko Ayrton Rose Shing Au Caverel House Arianwen Ramruttun Ebanehita Eigbefoh Pedro Puente Hervella Caspar Shaw Ivan Boas Syed Matthew Stanislas Archie Smellie Anna Hayhurst Tallulah Horton Laila Akenzua Al Kareem Oliwia Malek Isabella House Maya Strauss

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0

0

0

0

0

0

1

4

1

2

0

0

0

0

0

Cumulative

1

2

19

37

46

0.20 100.0

0.39

3.73

7.27

9.04

99.8

99.4

95.7

88.4

96 18.86 79.4

96 18.86 60.5

81 15.91 41.6

67 13.16 25.7

64 12.57 12.6

%

61

42

17 509 100

51 100 88

28 100 82

47

TOTAL

67 100 77 100 100 88

56 100 72 100 100 79

33

8

9

7 6 5 4 3 2 1 U Total %9-7 %9-6 %9-5

100 100 100 100 92

0

Spanish 5

Russian 1

RS Full course 0

Physics 2

Physical Education 5

Music 2

Mathematics 5

Latin 0

History

4

German

2

Geography

4

French

6

English Literature

0

English Language

0

Economics

2

EAL

2

Design

6

Computer Science

1

Combined Science

3

Classical Greek

5

Chemistry

4

Biology

8

Art: Fine Art

%9-4

36 The Raven 2023

Subject

GCSE RESULTS ANALYSIS 2023 (All Fifth Form results including subjects sat prior to June 2023)

EXAM RESULTS SUMMARY GCSE

A* A C E

0

0

1

2

0

2

1

18

A*

3 0 0 0 0 4

1 4 0 0 0 7

0 0 0 0 0 1

3 1 1 1 0 11

4

1

0

0

0

7

29

1

0

0

0

0

8

88

0

1

0

0

0

9

89

66

2

5

9

36

43

40

6

1

0 0 0 0 0 1

29 100 46

11

3

4 4 2 0 0 18

44 100 25

86 100 89

A

0

1 0 0 1 0 2 0

7

0

0 0 0 0 1 3 67

5

0

3 7 0 0 0 10 0

67 100 100 43 100 73

2

0

0 1 0 0 0 1 0

3

0

4 2 0 0 0 9 33

50

0

1

0 2 1 0 0 6 50

67

2

0

3 1 0 0 0 6 33

30

1

0

8 5 1 2 0 17 6

0

0

0

1 1 0 0 0 3 33

78

89 100 100 100 100 82 100 100 100 90

50 100 100 100 100 100 91 100 100 100 95

50

5

0

0 0 1 0 0 2 50

50

0

2

1 0 0 0 0 3 67

83

2

3

2 0 0 0 0 6 67

53

0

1

2 2 2 0 0 7 14

67

71 100 100 100 100 82 100 83 100 100 100 67

43 100 100 50

0

1

2 2 1 0 1 8 25 50 75

3

0

0 2 0 1 0 4 25 25 75

88 100 100 100 100 100 88 100 100 100 100 100 67

A LEVEL / PRE-U / BTEC RESULTS ANALYSIS 2023 (All Upper Sixth results including subjects sat prior to June 2023)

100 88 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 67 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 99

75

2

A*

B C D E U

%A*-A %A*-B %A*-C %A*-D %A*-E

2

EPQ 2023

1

TOTAL

1

Sport BTEC

1

Spanish

0

Religious Studies

1

Psychology

0

Polish

1

Physics

1

Music

A

Further Maths

1

Mathematics

B

Latin

0

History of Art*

C

History

0

German

D

Geography

0

French

E

English

0

Economics

U

Design

94

Computer Science

%A*-A

Chinese

153

Chemistry

%A*-B 100

Business Studies

38

Biology

BTEC grade equivalencies

Art: Fine Art

D* D M P

A* A A B C D D E D1/D2 D3 M1 M2 M3 P1 P2 P3 Subject

TOTAL

*Pre-U grade equivalencies used here: A - level

The Raven 2023 37

UNIVERSITY ENTRANTS PUPIL NAME

DESTINATION

STUDYING

Laila Akenzua

Oxford

French and Spanish

Tsun Shing Au

Nottingham

Electrical and Electronic Engineering including an Industrial Year

Jude Francis Bennett

Oxford Brookes

History

Charlie Boarder

Bath

Business with work placement

Inigo Canellas

Newcastle

Agri-Business Management

Marianna Ceglarek

St Andrews

Medicine

Ching Kiu Gladys Chi

UCL

Psychology

Rafe Dawe-Lane

Notts Trent

Architecture

Joseph Day

Exeter

Ancient History and Archaeology

Maria Diamond

Cardiff

Medicine

Zak Dinning

Royal Agricultural

Real Estate

Ebanehita Eigbefoh

Kent

Architecture

Amelia Evans

Loughborough

Textile Design

Oliver Flynn

Exeter

Flexible Combined Honours with Study Abroad

Louis Hansom

Bournemouth

Sport Coaching

Anna Hayhurst

Oxford Brookes

International Relations and Politics

Pui Yin Huang

Edinburgh

Veterinary Medicine

Ivor Jones

Cardiff Met

Sport Management (3 years or 4 years with Foundation)

Robert Keeley

Sheffield

Biology

Cheuk Yan Ko

Glasgow

Comparative Literature

Joseph Last-Sutton

Leeds Beckett

Sport and Exercise Science

38 The Raven 2023

PUPIL NAME

DESTINATION

STUDYING

Daniel Manso Duffy

Oxford Brookes

Property Development and Planning

Leo Matthews

Oxford Brookes

Business Enterprise and Entrepreneurship

Ruby Morling-Ritchie

KCL

English

Olivia Mossman

Oxford Brookes

Business Enterprise and Entrepreneurship

Long Tung Mui

Cardiff

Law with Politics

Thomas Pike

Exeter

Accounting and Finance with Year Abroad

Pedro Puente Hervella

Cardiff

Engineering with Foundation Year

Arianwen Ramruttun

Cardiff

French and German

Scarlett Ridge

Edinburgh

Linguistics

Ayrton Rose

York

Music

Caspar Shaw

Kent University

Civil Service Degree Apprenticeship

Chun Tak James Shie

KCL

Global Health and Social Science

Maya Strauss

Cardiff

Politics

Hoi Ling Tang

Newcastle

Biomedical Sciences

Yi Chak Luis Tang

Warwick

Physics with Astrophysics

Annabel Walker

Cardiff Met

Sport Management (3 years or 4 years with Foundation)

Oliver Webb

Cardiff Met

Sport and Exercise Science (3 years or 4 years with Foundation)

Åke Houlihan Wiberg

Accounting

Durham

Frederick Whitaker

Royal Holloway

Music and Philosophy

Oliver Wood

Cardiff Met

Sport Media (3 years or 4 years with Foundation)

Yat Long Wu

Sheffield

Physics with Particle Physics

Ching Yu Yuen

Bath

Aerospace Engineering with professional placement

The Raven 2023 39

COMMUNITY NEWS

More than a year has passed since the monastic community moved out of the buildings at Downside Abbey and into Southgate House, in the grounds of Buckfast Abbey. Our routine of community life and prayer continues much as it did at Downside, but we join the monks of Buckfast for Midday Office, Sunday Mass and meals, as well as other big occasions like Christmas and Easter. We also had a joint community retreat with the Buckfast community, led by Bishop Michael Campbell, OSA. One of the highlights of the year for both communities was the ordination to the priesthood of Dom John and Dom Andrew (Buckfast) in September 2022.

This was not without a certain level of drama. The date had long been in the diary of the then Bishop of Plymouth, Mark O’Toole, but he became Archbishop of Cardiff. Nonetheless, he was able to come over to ordain them. But then Queen Elizabeth II died and Archbishop Mark was summoned to a meeting of Church leaders with King Charles in Cardiff, leading us with two deacons, many guests and no bishop. Fortunately, Archbishop George Stack, the retired Archbishop of Cardiff, was able to come and the day was saved.

Dom John celebrated his First Mass in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel at Buckfast

40 The Raven 2023

with a smaller group of people, sung by the monastic community (you can hear the Mass on our Soundcloud channel). He has spent this year in Rome, concluding his studies for a Licence in Monastic Theology at the Benedictine Athenaeum of Sant’Anselmo.

The monks here have not just been sitting back with their feet up! Abbot Nicholas spends time back at Downside, overseeing the different issues that affect the Trust and liaising with our staff there.

We were sorry to see Tina Woodham (Finance Manager) and Robert Blincow (Buildings) move on to new jobs and we are grateful for all they did whilst with us.

We were, however, pleased to welcome Jack Barr in Finance and Sarah Jones as the Property Administrator. We thank Simon Johnson and all the library volunteers for their ongoing work and support in the heritage department.

In the meantime, Dom Anselm was invited to give the Community Retreats at Ealing and Belmont Abbeys over the course of five days each, and also gives music lessons to the novice from the Buckfast community. Dom Leo has taken on the role of Novice Master and Vocation Director for the Buckfast community, where his work is much appreciated. We are grateful for the support given by our

oblates, and Dom James has become Oblate Master, keeping in touch with them and organising day retreats and meetings. It was great to see a few of them at Buckfast for the oblates’ retreat with the Buckfast oblates, and Dom James has been meeting with them regularly at Downside. On coming to Southgate, Abbot Charles had intended to complete the next volume of his project compiling a definitive list of all the priests in England and Wales, which he began in the 1980s, but he has been scuppered by GDPR. Dom Michael has been able to continue his carpentry work, with commissions from Norwich Catholic Cathedral and other cathedrals and churches around the country, repair work and other commissions for Buckfast. He has also resumed the monthly prayers for healing on Instagram Live and instituted a monthly Mass for healing in the abbey church at Buckfast. The General Chapter of our Congregation met at Buckfast in July 2022, and Abbot Nicholas was elected to the Abbot President’s Council, having earlier also been elected to the Council of the Union of Monastic Superiors.

Other members of the community are working elsewhere.

Dom Martin left the parish in Beccles, East Anglia, and is now priest-in-charge of St Benedict’s parish, Stratton on the Fosse.

Abbot Richard continues to be much appreciated as Novice Master in Belmont Abbey’s foundation at Lurín, Peru, as well as continuing to assist a number of other monasteries across the world with canon law issues, and Dom David continues to teach Philosophy, Latin, Greek and English at Sant’Anselmo in Rome. This year he has also been helping in the Pontifical North American College. Dom Boniface works in the Diocese of Sens and Auxerre in France, supplying in parishes and helping in a former Benedictine monastery.

It has been lovely to see some friends of the community call in to visit us when they have been in the area. Please do let us know if you are coming, so we can be sure that someone is around to answer the door!

Our focus continues to be the future of our community and our discernment of where we wish to live our monastic life in the future. This is not quite so straightforward as many seem to imagine, since any matching of communities has to be suitable for both sides and cannot be rushed if it is to work. So please do keep us in your prayers, and do remember that we are still able to accept Mass stipends as well as donations and legacies for the abbey church and the work of the community. Please feel free to contact us by email (monks@downsideabbey.co.uk). You can always follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, where you will also find the link for the recording to our daily Mass.

Dom Anselm Brumwell

The Raven 2023 41

SALVETE VALETE

&

42 The Raven 2023

SALVETE We welcomed new members of staff in 2023 Tabitha Cockerill Nina Gross Steve Hart Joshua Huckle Ella Kenney Rebecca Lacey Elizabeth Legg Andrew O’Sullivan Claire Parr Roberto Valente

Resident Sport Assistant Artist in Residence Teacher of Physics Head of History Resident Sport Assistant Resident Sport Assistant Teacher of EAL Head of English Head of Human Resources Head of Classics

VALETE BETH ACKERLEY Beth joined us in September 2021 as a Performing Arts Graduate and as a Resident Graduate in Caverel House. She was an instant success in both arenas! Beth’s warm and positive approach to everything she does has brought calm order to the creative mayhem in the Theatre and a huge amount of fun in Caverel House. Her karaoke events are legendary at the weekends! Beth enjoyed her year so much and having shadowed many Drama

lessons, she decided to take on a PGCE. Miss Ackerley has developed into a strong and effective teacher of Drama. She has an incredible work ethic and a can-do attitude. Beth has developed her persona and the Department in countless ways. She also co-directed and produced two productions, The Changing Rooms and Around the World in 80 Days, and she has so many creative ideas it is more a case of holding her back from doing too much. Beth has incredible organisational skills and has organised and run a large number of trips to the Theatre over the last two years, and a great many events at the weekends and for Caverel House.

As a genuine, caring, approachable tutor, Beth has forged strong relationships with staff and pupils and she gives generously of her time and energy, long beyond the call of duty. She will be greatly missed but we wish her every success in her new role as Teacher of Dance and Drama in Yeovil.

Anna McGarry House Mistress of Caverel & Teacher of English and Drama

The Raven 2023 43

EMILY CHAPMAN Emily Chapman has been a part of the Downside Community for six years now. Joining the School in 2018, Emily joined the Sports Department as Head of Netball. From her time at England Netball, it was clear to those around her that Emily was desperate to get back to coaching on the court.

As a keen Netball player throughout, Emily has represented many teams; however, Frome Netball Club is now where her expertise is exercised. The Netball programme at Downside has been greatly improved with Emily’s presence, with multiple Downside representatives at the regional level.

Namely Zara Bellord at the Satellite Academy and Laila Akenzua Al-Kareem with the Team Bath ADC Bristol hub. Whilst Emily has had a focus on developing our elite performers, it should be said that the development of all our pupils at all levels have benefited from Emily’s coaching philosophy.

By creating events such as Mother’s and Daughter’s Netball and creating more fixture opportunities for those in our lower-tier teams, Emily has played a big role in creating sport for all and that should not go unnoticed.

Emily has not only had an impact on the pupils here at Downside. I remember fondly when I first joined the School back in 2019 and Emily alongside Alex Burns were mentors for me. They paved the way for real impact to occur. I was hooked by Emily’s passion to develop and push the department forward by being creative with ideas and fearless in the delivery. During the pandemic, it was a difficult time for everybody, however, Emily along with absolutely everything was still able to motivate and push her peers to stay connected to our goal of making things better for the pupils. I will remember this time for many reasons, but reflecting on the strength of Emily’s mindset and personality during this extremely difficult time is a selfless gift to leave. Emily’s personality has played a huge role in connecting the department, her bubbly and highly motivated characteristics will be missed.

Emily often recounts her time from being in Caverel with fond memories of growing up with the culture of the School, and it has played an

44 The Raven 2023

important role in her time here. Also, along with Ben Edge and the PE Department, it has offered another pathway of connection and reflection of her dedication to impact the whole pupil body.

Seeing Jesse in and around School events these days is a delight, and we can only imagine the fortune he will have, being under the wing of an amazing mother, not forgetting the inevitable pressure to be on the England Men’s Netball squad at age nine.

On behalf of the Sports Department and the rest of the Downside Community, we would all like to thank greatly Emily for everything she has committed to the School. We have been fortunate to have you and we are looking forward to staying in touch and seeing you take on the new role at Sexeys with the drive and determination to make your mark. Thank you, Emily.

Conor O’Rourke, Head of Tennis Development and Lead Coach

ADAM CRAY Adam arrived at Downside at the end of 2019 as Director of Finance. This was a new role, created shortly after the formal separation of the School and Monastery. It was a challenging time to forge the path for the newly founded Downside School but Adam’s easy and open manner and his obvious enjoyment of being part of a team meant that he quickly became a well-liked member of the community. He had not long got his feet under the table before the arrival of Covid-19 raised the level of challenge still further, but his calm approach meant that he took this in his stride, remaining consistently cheerful and positive, when others might have quite understandably buckled under the pressure. We are grateful to Adam for his contribution and guidance as Downside School took its early steps as a new and separate trust and helped to keep the ship steady during the pandemic and beyond.

Andrew Hobbs Head

MICHELLE HEYWOOD Michelle arrived at Downside in April 2015.

She joined initially on a temporary basis and her professional and personal qualities were immediately evident. She quickly became a highly respected colleague, trusted by all, and it was our enormous good fortune that she became a fixture in the HR Department over the next seven and a half years.

She was utterly dependable throughout that time, demonstrating an exceptional work ethic.

Colleagues from every department in the School came to count upon her advice and she ensured that as staff we were always well informed and well supported whatever our role. She was extremely approachable, and her sense of humour was always evident but so was her tenacity and attention to detail. The School’s Single Central Record (SCR) for which she was responsible, was a testimony to this, and Downside’s reputation benefited greatly from the experience of job applicants (whether they were successful or not), who were invariably complimentary about their dealings with Michelle. She never shied away from tackling difficult issues and ensured that colleagues took their responsibilities seriously, whilst being happy to support them when they faced challenges.

Having achieved her level five CIPD qualification, Michelle made the decision to make further use of the excellent foundation of knowledge and experience she had gained at Downside and joined the newly formed Dorset Centre of Excellence in Shaftesbury in November 2022. Our loss is their gain and I know what an excellent job she is doing there. Michelle’s impact at Downside was enormously positive and she is greatly missed.

HARLEY HOWARD Harley joined the Design and Technology Department in May 2021, following the retirement of Derek Denham. Having recently gained a 2:1 Honours Degree in Product Design from Cardiff University. His arrival coincided with a capital investment by the School in improving the CAD CAM facilities within the department with the purchase of a new and significantly more powerful laser cutter, three additional 3D printers, a CNC milling machine, and 25 computers capable of running SolidWorks and Keyshot. His knowledge and experience of using these programs at university proved invaluable to GCSE and A Level pupils, significantly enhancing their NEA project folios, and allowing them to develop projects that incorporated laser cut and 3D printed component parts.

As well as his technician’s role, Harley tutored pupils in Smythe House, and took on the additional resident tutor’s role this year. As a Reservist he was keen to get involved with the CCF and was also a member of the St Francis Community. Harley leaves us to further his career as he embarks upon a Design and Technology PGCE Course.

Neill Barrett Head of Art & Design

KATIE NASCIMENTO Katie Nascimento joined Downside in March 2022 as an HR administrator and quickly got to grips with a varied role within a busy team. Katie’s unassuming manner and eye for detail made her the perfect fit. Katie helped streamline the teams’ processes and procedures and laid some excellent groundwork as the department prepared to take Andrew Hobbs its workflows online. Katie left Downside to follow Head a career in childcare and spend more time with her young family. We wish Katie well for the future and thank her for her contribution.

Rachel Cox Director of HR

The Raven 2023 45

DARREN NICHOLS As we reflect on Darren’s journey with us, it becomes evident that his departure will leave a void that will not easily be filled.

Before joining Downside, Darren brought with him a wealth of experience in the boarding school system overseas. He arrived during the challenging times of the Covid-19 pandemic and immediately demonstrated fantastic resilience and adaptability.

As an Assistant House Master in Barlow, working alongside Simon, Darren has contributed a lot to House life. In the classroom his development of BTEC Business has allowed more pupils access to his subject, which has enriched their experiences.

Darren’s contributions extend beyond the classroom. For the past two years, he has generously shared his time and expertise in coaching football, instilling in our pupils the values of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. His dedication to their holistic development has been commendable.

In addition to his work at Downside, Darren’s wider academic pursuits as an examiner for GCSE business studies, serving as a Team Leader, has brought knowledge and understanding into the School. His superlative knowledge of current affairs and geopolitics has been an invaluable asset, providing pupils with a broader understanding of the world and encouraging critical thinking.

We express our heartfelt gratitude for his contributions and wish him continued success in all his future endeavours at Epsom. May his journey ahead be filled with joy, fulfilment, and new opportunities.

Michael Randall Deputy Head

unwavering commitment to excellence was always evident and often accompanied by a witty joke!

Despite the Covid-19 pandemic initially preventing in-person events to take place, Paige was still able to build relationships and foster community amongst Old Gregorians. Her weekly social media posts, ‘Memory Lane Monday’, would often spark interest and engagement and her vital involvement with collating and editing the Raven content for the past few years has been invaluable.

Your friendly nature and willingness to go above and beyond to support your colleagues made a lasting impact. The memories we shared, the laughter we enjoyed, particularly during the 2022 Giving Day preparations, and the accomplishments we achieved together will always be cherished.

As you embark on the next chapter of your journey, we do not doubt that you will continue in your successes and wish you the very best of luck.

Jess Newman Director of Development

JOHN STOREY John Storey was a hugely popular House Master of Smythe House and Head of Classics. John was an outstanding House Master, bringing his personality to the House and encouraging boys to become kind, responsible young men who will leave as OGs with a good moral compass and willingness to serve. The boys in his House received the highest standards of pastoral care and had a greater understanding of typical British humour upon leaving.

John demonstrated professionalism, diligence and the highest standards of pastoral care. He enjoyed House events and celebrations, even more PAIGE OWEN so when Smythe won! John actively promoted a From the moment Paige joined Downside in sense of community spirit in Smythe, even during 2020 as Development Assistant, her charismatic the pandemic when he presented his weekly online personality and passion shone through in everything assemblies, prayers and updates complete with a she did. magic trick at the end.

Whether it was organising OG events, providing As the Head of Classics, John’s role came with secretarial support to St Gregory’s Society, or additional responsibility. Keeping Latin and Ancient assisting with various fundraising projects, her Greek alive at any school is a challenge but one John

46 The Raven 2023

relished and, thanks to his efforts, both Latin and Greek are thriving subjects at Downside. There are numerous classicists who owe a great deal to John’s excellent teaching and commitment to supporting any pupil who wanted to learn the classics.

As a traditional school master, John threw himself into every aspect of a full and busy school life. He supported the games department, most notably in cross country. As a keen runner, John set high standards and challenged himself and others while out enjoying the local countryside in all weathers.

Leading by example, John also ran for Smythe at the School Sports Day, forging a name for himself among the pupils as a 1500m runner they should not try to compete against. More importantly, John frequently turned out to run for the staff team at the Christmas Dash, a uniquely Downside event which draws the largest audience for any sport at the School.

John was renowned for owning many different types of outfits, most of which made an appearance at the CCF parades. As a CCF officer, John was always perfectly turned out, whether it was inspection day, the Remembrance service, playing sneaky beaky on field day or fully camouflaged as the enemy on night exercise. John attended Easter and Summer Camps, supporting cadets as they navigated across Dartmoor or launched section attacks.

John gave an enormous amount to Downside over the years and his energy often seemed boundless. His great sense of humour, passion for pastoral work and co-curricular commitments have made the School a better place. He made significant contributions to the pastoral and welfare teams resulting in a positive impact on the pupils in his care.

Over the last few years, John has been training to be an Anglican priest, a vocation which he is now able to fulfil in his new role as Chaplain at Winchester College. His presence will be missed at Downside, but we wish him well in his new position.

KAREN WESTLAKE Karen Westlake has served as the House Mistress of Isabella House and Teacher of History since her arrival at Downside School. Her extraordinary kindness, compassion and service have impacted so many pupils throughout the School and her legacy will live on through a generation of Old Gregorians.

Karen spent time and energy forging trusting relationships with pupils, staff and families, building a community and ensuring every child received the best possible care and attention. She constantly sought ways to make the boarding experience memorable and provided many opportunities for celebration from the House Music Competition to birthdays and the Eurovision Song Contest.

Karen put time and energy into planning events, activities and decorating the House with bunting and balloons whenever there was an excuse for a party. The At Home event for Isabella has gone from strength to strength under Karen’s leadership. What began as a lunch with some entertainment became a full-blown fair with games and charity fundraising.

During the pandemic, Karen put incredible effort into maintaining the community spirit even when the girls and staff were scattered across the globe. Her weekly broadcasts were hugely popular and interactive and brought families together to have fun and engage with each other. From the VE day celebrations to virtual cake competitions, she recognised the importance of community spirit and went above and beyond to keep everyone together and excited about the return to School.

Karen has an outstanding reputation and experience as a history teacher. She brings the subject to life, using stories and props to engage everyone in her classroom. Not only did she provide content and examination technique, but Karen also gave her pupils confidence and resilience through the subject and a balanced lens through which to view the world. The pupils she taught achieved their potential but came away with much more than an education in history.

Claire Murphy As a member of the pastoral team, Karen has Director of Pastoral Care & Teacher of Biology worked tirelessly for the good of others. Her

The Raven 2023 47

enthusiasm for pastoral care, her dedication to Isabella House, absolute professionalism and unwavering commitment have earned her the respect of her colleagues and all who have worked with her at Downside. She put her heart and soul into every aspect of her life at the School, helping to create a nurturing and vibrant community.

Karen leaves us to start a new position as Pastoral Deputy at Bishopstrow. She will be sorely missed at Downside, but we wish her well in her new endeavours.

Claire Murphy Director of Pastoral Care & Teacher of Biology

HARRIET WILSON Harriet came to Downside in September 2014, adding further to the energy and academic strength of the English Faculty. She was immediately embraced by staff as an extremely able and generous colleague and by pupils as an inspiring and engaging teacher. There was never any reluctance in the pupils waiting outside her classroom but instead eager anticipation of the lesson to come.

Her passion for her subject was evident as was her ability to communicate it to others. She had high expectations of her pupils, and they lived up to them. Their results were outstanding. She was a major contributor to the success of several pupils’ gaining offers to study English at Oxford and Cambridge.

Harriet was not just an excellent teacher but someone with a flair for leadership. In 2017 she took added responsibility as UCAS and Higher Education Coordinator, a vital role which she carried out with typical professionalism and enthusiasm.

This involved active management and support of the Sixth Form tutors so that they were able to promote aspiration and excellence within their tutees as they made choices and worked towards life beyond Downside.

There is no doubt that Harriet would have been invited to take on further responsibilities here at Downside, had it not been for fact that she took

48 The Raven 2023

on the most important responsibility of all, that of motherhood. She and her husband Joe celebrated the arrival of Sylvie in March 2018, which was followed by that of Orla two years later in 2020 and then in December 2021 Ivo was born. Each time Harriet arrived back from maternity leave was a time of great rejoicing and it was hugely to Downside’s benefit that she continued to teach in the English department during those years but she quite understandably came to the decision that it was time to leave Downside. She is greatly missed but will always be most welcome here and any messages from Minerva Wilbertonk (her email moniker) will bring an immediate smile and great memories of a highly valued colleague.

Andrew Hobbs Head

RORY WORSMAN Rory joined Downside in September 2017 and immediately made an impact on the department and School as a whole. Bringing his recent experience from within the state sector he was able to bring a different perspective which led to reflection and re-evaluation of teaching and learning across the department which was followed by a continued improvement in the department’s results.

He has taught Science through all seven-year groups. Teaching GCSE Biology and accompanying the A Level field course, delivering several bespoke sessions. As part of the GCSE and A level Physics courses he has taught both astrophysics and gravitational theory, and his passion and interest for these topics shines through and is an inspiration to the students. He challenges stereotypes and has taken ownership of his own career, forging his own path, being true to his interests and passions and is embarking on studying for a master’s degree in Astrophysics.

Rory has brought a unique perspective to teaching Physics, hurdling and consequently narrowing the gap between Biology and Physics

and encouraging a more holistic scientific perspective which has been reflected by two recent OGs applying to study Biomedical engineering.

Biology and Chemistry, Chemistry and Physics, Biology, Chemistry and Physics are the traditional combinations, yet Rory has shown a new pathway, Biology and Physics, especially with quantum biology being such a growth area of research.

Rory organised and led several trips; the highlight was two Sixth Form trips to Cern.

Visiting the particle accelerator, detectors and S’Cool Labs, proved to be an inspiration to staff and pupils alike, and something I and everyone who accompanied will never forget, especially the feeling of being simultaneously instantly cleverer, and yet academically and intellectually challenged, being surrounded by such highly focussed and able individuals, one of whose life’s works is effectively “searching for nothing!”.

It is difficult to quantify the impact Rory has had on the wider School community, he has been heavily involved in all aspects of School life, from the sports field coaching Rugby and supporting the wider games programme, always being the first to raise his hand and volunteer to help regardless of the activity or level, to supporting the pupils as a valued member of the CCF team, since joining us in September 2007. He has helped run the Fourth Form and Fifth Form Army platoons, during the past six years, where his previous military experience has been invaluable. He has taken part in numerous night exercises and Field Days, planning several of them. He has assisted with Ten Tors training and helped supervise the Duke of Edinburgh practice and actual expeditions at Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels. He has gained several Army qualifications during his time with us, and we will be sad to see him leave, as he takes up the post of Head of the Army Section at Monkton Combe School.

For three years he was Assistant Housemaster of Smythe, once again throwing himself heart and soul into the role, always having the pupils’ welfare at the centre of everything he did, consequently, it was no surprise that he took this experience and became

the Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead where I am certain he has had a profound impact on the wellbeing of numerous young people.

This year Rory has led the Sixth Form Lecture Programme, which has been integrated into the PSHE programme, being given a higher profile within the School day. These have been a tremendous success, with a vast array of interesting and inspirational speakers enjoyed by staff and pupils alike such as recent OGs Joanna Doliwa (I20), Mateusz Kapustka (R20) and Mattieu Brown (R19) sharing their varied experiences from Neuroscience and satellites to launching businesses and being an ICT entrepreneur, in addition to talks covering topics such as de-mining conflict zones, staying well in an uncertain future, local and national politics as well as a number of extreme athletes and explorers.

Rory has also played a major role in the field of sports coaching. Ever present in the rugby term, he has coached almost all players at one time or another. A committed member of the team, with a strong focus on forwards and competitiveness, Rory will be missed next season - but we look forward to seeing him across the other side of the pitch when we face Monkton.

Rory has helped in almost all other areas too - hockey, tennis, swimming, squash, kayaking, lifeguarding and even health & well-being - he has led them all and always done so with a cheerful disposition.

Paraphrasing the much-misquoted Mark Twain “the reports of the demise of the old-fashioned Schoolmaster is exaggerated”, Rory Worsman is living proof that they are alive, well and thriving.

Paul Rigby Head of Teaching, Learning and Innovation & Head of Science

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NEWS FROM THE

HOUSES

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BARLOW Head of House: Alexander Di Pietrantonio Deputy Head of House: Ivan Boas-Syed House prefects: Jude Bennett, Oliver Flynn, Joe Last-Sutton, Luis Tang, Nayan Danhawoor

and rituals. Barlow is one of the oldest houses to be established in the School and for just over a century, it has proudly overlooked the rolling green of the Worth lawn and games fields. This is one of the many aspects which makes Barlow such a great I am very proud to forward the following summary place and home for the boys who board here. of the year compiled by Alexander Di Pietrantonio Barlow is fortunate enough to have our social and Jude Bennett. On behalf of the House, I areas on the ground floor and this year we are thank them and all the boys for their support, mostly known for boasting the ‘best kitchen’, energy and good humour. I wish our leavers every welcoming an inclusive social life both within our success as they move on to new challenges and community and across the School. When we do trust that their experiences of community life entertain guests, we are always encouraged to in Barlow and Downside would have provided offer tea, biscuits, and good conversation – and many opportunities for growth and learning. I mobiles are certainly frowned upon by the House know they will approach the future with optimism, Master! Everyone in Barlow has something to offer maintain a healthy lifestyle, stay adaptable and true and is encouraged to participate and support to themselves, express gratitude and contribute each other, whether it is in competitive team or positively to the communities around them. I individual sports, music events and performances, encourage them to embrace the journey and lectio communities, chess and debating societies. savour the excitement that comes with pursuing Through inter-House matches or the copious levels their dreams and aspirations. of toast and chorizo consumption, Barlow has Simon Potter always been able to form strong bonds between House Master & Director of the Wider Curriculum the year groups and a greater sense of community.

Our House Parents have been pivotal in this and have always helped, nurtured us and kept us in After more or less three years of pandemic good order. We will all embrace the memory of protocol for the current Upper Sixth Form our returning to the House kitchen after tough fixtures final year saw Barlow swing back into full capacity on cold wet days to warm a welcome and hot with the return of normality and all of its traditions soup - and cake!

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Most notably, the Rugby 1st VII have won all but one of their tournaments, the best record the School has had in recent history.

As a House, we have also been blessed with a number of hard-working tutors from across the departments; Mr Hicks (Physics) resident for the last two years, a stickler for timings but always willing to discuss life, the universe and engage in a game of chess of an evening. Mr Walters (R.S, theology, history, debating) whose sense of humour, intellect and endless UCAS help often go handin-hand. Mr McNamara, (music & choir) who always seems to charm everyone with his bubbly personality whilst keeping our musicians busy. Mr Edge (P.E, PSHE) whose work has transcended the classroom taking us to our moral victory in the House hockey as our coach. Mr O’Rourke (Lectio, Head of Tennis & coach) resident and always guiding us through life’s challenges. Our current Assistant House Master, Mr Nichols (Business) leaves the House as he moves to another school, we are grateful for all the toast and salami he has brought out for us in the evenings but also for being a good sport and putting up with us the for past three years. Tammy, our domestic support is much appreciated for her endless care in avoiding Barlow resembling a Jackson Pollock canvas. Finally, our beloved Mr Potter or otherwise ‘Potter’, ‘P-dog’, or whatever one might come to affectionately know him as, who not only serves as a House Master but also as a cheerleader and a father to the House. After 30 years on the job, Mr Potter has developed somewhat of a cult following amongst other pupils and has truly become the embodiment of Benedictine values.

This year, the majority of Barlow boys have all contributed to sports at Downside. Most notably, the Rugby 1st VII have won all but one of their tournaments, the best record the School has had in

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recent history. In the Fourth Form, Joshua Gathunga has been admitted to the Bath Rugby Academy and Francis Matthew continues to excel across the sports teams and in cross country. Both Francis and Conrad Peterson received full colours for their service to the cross-county team. The badminton team has also seen a lot of success, winning all their fixtures. The tennis team was once again dominated

by Barlow Boys with Mr Potter and Mr O’Rourke coaching the team. The cricket team also saw more success this season and ended on a high in the annual cricket tour in Ampleforth where we won most of our games with Joe Last-Sutton at the helm. We can never forget a real Christmas dash this year run in the snow!

Barlow Honours in Downside 1st Teams: Rugby XV: Joe Last-Sutton, Alex Di Pietrantonio, Jude Bennett, Ivan Boas Syed, Danny Manso Duffy, Johnny Rowell, George Buhagiar Rugby VII: Joe Last-Sutton, Jude Bennett, Ivan Boas Syed, Danny Manso Duffy, Johnny Rowell, George Buhagiar Hockey XI: Joe Last-Sutton, Ivan Boas Syed Cricket XI: Joe Last-Sutton (Capt.), Jude Bennett Football XI: Vincent Tickell (V. Capt), Yvo Mellote, Aristo Cham, Johnny Rowell, Daniel Flynn Tennis 1st VI: Oliver Flynn, Yvo Mellote (Capt), Josu Vallancey, Daniel Flynn Badminton 1st VI: Luis Tang, Max Su (V. Capt), Justin Wu, Desmond Chan Basketball XII: CJ Rapoo, Vincent Tickell Table Tennis VI: Max Liu (Capt.), Desmond Chan (V. Capt), Justin Wu Chess: Luis Tang, Aristo Cham, Carlos Ho, Ivan Boas-Syed, Danny Manso Duffy.

Despite being one of the smaller Houses, Barlow has had great success in raking in the School sports awards for this year: Joe Last-Sutton receiving a clean sweep with 1st team Caps for rugby, hockey and cricket. Ivan Boas-Syed 1st team hockey Cap. Oliver Flynn tennis Cap for an impressive four years’ service to the 1st team. George Buhagiar

2nd team rugby Cap & 2nd team hockey Colours.

Edward Howlett 2nd team rugby Cap. Vincent Tickell, Yvo Melotte & Sebastian Mitton 1st team football Colours. Joseph Rowell & Danny Manso Duffy 2nd team football Colours. CJ Rapoo 1st team basketball Colours. Luis Tang and Max Su 1st team badminton Colours. Max Liu and Desmond Chan 1st team table tennis Colours. Francis Matthew & Conrad Peterson intermediate crosscountry Colours. In additions to the recognised awards nearly all the pupils from the Fourth Form up have represented a School team at some stage during the year. An impressive feat and testament to a willingness to get involved and participate.

This year Barlow has been exceptionally busy in terms of individual contributions to the life of both the House and School. The Lower Sixth has been leading the Lectio Divina groups. St Teresa’s community led by Vincent Tickell, Dolu Aina, Yvo Melotte, Aristo Cham and supported by Josu Vallencey D’Estampes, and Victor Bennett. Aristo Cham was Chairman of the Abington Society and has worked hard to ensure that Barlow remains at the forefront of debating within the School. In the Fifth Form Daniel Flynn and Johnny Rowell took over positions as junior lectio leaders this year.

Representation within chaplaincy Mass programme remains very strong and the following contributed as Servers. Ivan Boas-Syed, Joszko Suchan, Yvo Melotte, Vincent Tickell, Max Su, Santino Capellino, Henry Gogh and Francis Matthew. It was very pleasing to see Joszko take over the mantel of Thurifer at the end of term, a position that Barlow has proudly maintained for some years. Joszko Suchan also deserves congratulating on his School appointment to Head of Sacristy next year.

As far as other extra-curricular activities, Ivan Boas-Syed was head of the Navy section and Theo Durante head of the Army section in the CCF. Many have managed to complete their D of E expeditions and certificates. In other news, our Sixth Form Luis Tang won the Independent Chess Award as he not only led the Barlow chess team to a near victory but also pioneered the chess

movement in its entirety at Downside. He also captained a memorable victory over Prior Park, our first external fixture. Aristo Cham received awards for and represented the School in Model United Nations, Oxford Union Schools’ Debating and Young Citizens Bar Mock Trial Competition. He also deserves congratulating on his School appointment to Head of Service next year.

We are also immensely pleased that the boys in Barlow have partaken in service and charity work not only within the lectio groups but also every Monday afternoon with Eli Stephens, George Buhagiar, Daniel Flynn and Vincent Tickell supporting a range of initiatives including path clearing, community playground refurbishing and general upkeep of the Abbey. Yvo Melotte and Jan Petersen also helped local school children improve their foreign language skills during this time. Guy Oliver in the Lower Sixth Form even ventured off to Tanzania to teach young children for a couple of weeks.

Music also remains at the heart of the House with Jan Petersen, Justin Wu, Max Su, Ivan BoasSyed, Luis Tang, Alexander Di Pietrantonio, Henry Gogh and Conrad Petersen all contributing to the musical life of the School. Within the House they and others, Jude Bennett and George Moorhouse

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can often be found practising and sharing their music. The Lower Sixth has made it their mission, and are already practicing, in readiness for the InterHouse Music competition next year!

Upper Sixth Barlow leavers reflections: ‘The past year has been full of achievements and personal growth on an individual level for a majority of the members of Barlow House. As the year progressed all the newcomers were able to settle comfortably and integrate into the House as active members with many taking on a multitude of responsibilities both in the House and the rest of the School with positions such as members of the School Council and House Council. I have witnessed a resurgence in the entire Houses community and spirit which had previously been damaged by the impact of the pandemic. As years were separated into bubbles, they became divided and interactions became limited, this issue persisted last year as people began to readapt to the lifted restrictions. However, this year has been a great success in the rebuilding of the House spirit and sense of community as the various years now often interact in the House and partake in group activities offered on the weekends. As the Head of House of Barlow, I am very proud to have been part of this process and to have been able to witness the change first-hand. Having been in Barlow the full four years I have undergone a process of maturing and change aided by the brilliant Barlow staff with Mr Potter and Mr Hicks being the backbones of not only the process but also the House itself. Through my years in Barlow House, I have been able to be part of a wonderful community.’

Alexander Di Pietrantonio ‘My journey at Downside began in Fourth Form, and I can vividly recall my initial demeanour - rude, complacent, and lacking any sense of motivation. However, I was fortunate to find solace and support within the Downside community, particularly through the guidance of Barlow.

Gradually the busy weeks, filled to the brim with

activities and assignments, now transformed into moments of enjoyment and growth. It has truly sculpted a better version of myself, unlocking my potential and encouraging me to achieve beyond my own expectations. There were many ‘close calls’ and I am truly grateful for the opportunities I was given to reflect and learn – and the tolerance and patience of many staff! As I step into the next chapter of my life, I can confidently hold my head up high, secure in the knowledge that Downside has prepared me well for the challenges that lie ahead.’

Nayan Danhawoor ‘It’s a pleasure to have been part of such a lovely community. Barlow has guided my journey into maturity and independence and for that I will always be grateful. I will forever miss 1st team games and House competitions. Long live Barlow!’

Ivan Boas-Syed ‘My time in Barlow House has made me realise how the distinct communities that make up the School such as Lectio Divina or Abbington society bring out the best qualities in each member that partake in it’ Oliver Flynn ‘The time I have spent in Barlow has helped nurture me into the person I am today. Barlow is a caring and thoughtful community full of alike people. I have enjoyed taking part in aspects such as sport and CCF and can not thank Barlow and Downside enough for the time I have spent and, the friends I’ve made during my time here.’

Joe Last-Sutton ‘Barlow House has been the largest part of School life for me and has given me many memories I will never forget (the Fourth Form Dorm). It has been a pleasure being a member of Barlow, sitting in the kitchen playing chess with the other year groups, and I will definitely miss it in the future.’

Luis Tang

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‘Being one of the few to join in the Sixth Form, I’ve always felt at home here, everyone feels familiar, and it brings me enormous pleasure to be a part of everything this House achieves. In the future I will forever be grateful for the time I have spent not only in the School but in this brilliant community that is Barlow’ Jude Bennett

and their good humour and personalities will be missed as they return home. Melchior Le Gendre and Alexis Fromont joined the Fourth Form for just the Summer Term and settled with ease into our community. Diego Lirola Munoz had perhaps the most challenging year joining for just a year and to sit GCSEs and his calm, self-contained nature ensured he succeeded in this respect as well as soaking up on busy life of boarding School.

‘Having joined the year of my GCSE’s I felt We feel confident in handing over to the welcomed by both the Downside and Barlow Lower Sixth and congratulate Dolu Aina in his community, which have remained the same only appointment as Head Boy, Yvo Melotte in his with a change of faces. I have made a great bunch appointment as Head of Powell, Vincent Tickell of new friends over the years and enjoyed the in his appointment as Head of Barlow and Victor various sporting activities offered.’

Bennett as his Deputy. We bid Mr Potter and the Danny Manso Duffy rest of the House staff farewell and trust Barlow will remain a welcoming, supportive environment It has been a pivotal year in our lives and we really for all who enter its many doors! hope for good results in August for all our GCSE and A level pupils. The successes enjoyed by Barlow Alexander Di Pietrantonio House would not be possible without the great (Head of House – Upper Sixth) staff on hand which we are very grateful to as and Jude Bennett a whole House. Moreover, the Upper Sixth are (House Prefect – Upper Sixth) feeling confident in what the future holds for them as they feel well prepared by both Barlow and Downside. In addition to the Upper Sixth leavers, we should also recognise others who leave the community this year, they have all contributed in their own way and we hope that they maintain the friendships made. Pablo Benitez Trevino and Santino Capellino have experienced Barlow dormitory life

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CAVEREL Head of House: Maya Strauss Deputy Head of House: Laila Akenzua Al Kareem House prefects: Annabel Walker, Olivia Mossman, Oliwia Malek, Hoi Ling Tang, Ching Kiu (Gladys) Chi, Yan Cheuk (Kristy) Ko, Ruby Morling Ritchie It has been all change in Caverel House this year with First and Second Form joining the House community for the first time and many adjustments have had to be made. A strong and capable Prefect team has led the way with new routines and traditions being forged. Maya Strauss as Head of House took the helm with a measured and enthusiastic tone with Laila Akuenza Al Kareem at her side, creating a formidable duo. Heading up the Fifth Form and championing Mental Health awareness, Ruby Morling Ritchie has provided guidance and balance throughout the year. Laila took charge of the Fourth Form and has been an excellent mentor and role model. Annabel Walker took the lead with the Third Form and her kind positive approach has helped shape them into the kindest and most cohesive year in the House. Leading Debating and Charity, Oliwia Malek has been a committed and driven member of the Prefect team this year. Olivia Mossman, with her remit as Guest Mistress alongside Annabel, organised a very social year in Caverel. Finally, Ebanhita Eogbefoh as Deputy Head of School

and with responsibility for the Juniors, lead a team of Prefects consisting of Hoi Ling Tang, and Gladys Chi. Her leadership has helped the Juniors feel integrated into the House. Maya’s and Laila’s overview of the year in Caverel is as follows: Here in Caverel, we like to keep busy, starting the year with a BANG by welcoming all the girls back with a costume party. To break the ice between all year groups in the House we played numerous games, ate way too much food, and danced all night. Following this, we invited parents to have a taste of the Caverel experience at our annual ‘House at Home’ by performing our Caverel House songs and giving girls the chance to showcase their musical talents, meanwhile selling Caverel mugs and raffle tickets to support our House charity ‘AgainstBreastCancer’. We have had many enjoyable House events throughout the year namely our ice-skating trip where we went to Bristol to bond as a House, with the older girls teaching the younger girls how to skate. Recently we have enjoyed the Caverel festival, organised by the Lower Sixth, which entailed a photo booth, face painting, cake decorating and a whole House hide and seek.

Every Saturday, we enjoy a House feast where girls indulge in conversations over sandwiches and ice cream. These nights are a great way of maintaining and forming friendships around the

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House, the whole House comes together to do our three favourite things: eat, gossip and karaoke.

Our House Parents and Head of Juniors often bake delicious treats with the juniors for special events such as the King’s Coronation and Eurovision, where we got the chance to try fairy and Maltese Kinnie (although Laila and I would not recommend the Kinnie).

Overall, Caverel’s emphasis on the importance of creating a warm and friendly atmosphere has enabled all members of the House to make Caverel their home away from home.

by singing ‘Oh Caverel’ which brought a vibrant atmosphere to the start of the song.’ This was a great whole House event to unite all the girls ranging in age from 11 to 18. This gave all the girls a chance to sing and helped people grow in confidence with singing in a group of people. The rehearsals were always very lively, with the prefects rewarding sweets to people who were giving the best energy. As well as singing there were many creative dance moves and a memorable moment of the Caverel flag being waved in the chorus.

The part song sang an arrangement for a fourpart harmony of You Raise Me Up. Ten girls took House Music part with two of them doing solos. There had to be We defended our title for the winners of House many rehearsals as it was a tricky piece of music, music and under Maya and Gladys’ guidance we but it was all worth it in the end because every swept to victory once more with a rousing trio of girl performed exceptionally well, and had lots of inspiring songs! Anna Hayhurst writes: ‘The House fun, despite it being very nerve-wracking. The final music event was a huge success for Caverel, coming section was the Hymn ‘I the Lord of sea and sky’. out on top, and keeping the winning streak running Although it took a while for everyone to learn the for the third consecutive year (excluding Covid). words, by the time the night came everyone knew For the House song, we chose to do Rehab (Glee the song word for word. Our amazing conductor, version) by Amy Winehouse. We started the song Head of House Maya Strauss, kept the singing in

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time in addition to our small orchestra, consisting of two violins and a piano played by girls from the House. The part song sang harmonies, which added to the beautiful singing.

Debating Debating was fiercely fought this year with Oliwia at the helm and it is completely unsurprising that with her determined and iron-fisted approach, Caverel finally got the final and then won overall.

Maya writes: ‘This year Caverel went and won it all in an intense debating final. Our unbeaten streak carried through the whole debating season despite facing very tough opposition. Debating is extremely important to us in Caverel because it is an opportunity to engage in critical thinking and explore both sides of a debate - always learning new and interesting perspectives. The atmosphere in the debates is always very passionate with pupils from each House starting adamant that their Houses’ proposition is correct but as the debate goes on, the audience makes up their own minds before voting at the end. In my opinion, the best part about debating are the points of information and the questions from the audience, because they get everyone involved and enable debaters to develop quick-thinking skills.’

There is always great respect between fellow debaters, the chairmen and women, and the judges.

Every debate ends with a handshake between opponents and gratitude for the judges (who are teachers) for taking the time out of their day.

Caverel has debated a variety of topics this year, including net zero, gender, the salary of female footballers and belief in God. Our proposition for the final was that the biggest threat to the West is population collapse versus Roberts (Artificial Intelligence) and Isabella (Human Nature). The whole House is encouraged to take part in these debates, and many girls show an encouraging amount of interest. As an outspoken House with young, independent women, we feel it is very important to take advantage of these debates to educate ourselves meanwhile building life-long confidence.

Sport Sport in Caverel is taken very seriously and all the girls put in a lot of effort to drive the standards to a high level in all the House competitions. The Caverel spirit makes the sport fun and enjoyable and brings all the year groups together, helping to form new friendships. Laila also writes ‘In Caverel, the sport has always been a common point for

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everyone, where regardless of ability all the girls participate in every way that they can. This year, with the majority of Caverel girls featuring in the first teams, it was a very successful season where we ended both the netball and hockey season

Rako’s Peace movement was a highlight of the Year as she managed to convince the House, the School and then our local Primary school to make origami cranes as a symbol of Peace for Ukraine. with a win. From inter-House hockey to interHouse chess, we always put our best foot forward - which meant that we came away with a win for both inter-House hockey and netball, continuing our victorious streak from last year. The Caverel atmosphere at sporting events is always lively and vibrant where we always support each other no matter the outcome, and the most important thing is that we enjoy ourselves. We paint our faces green, white, and red, which are the Caverel colours, before every sporting event which makes our Caverel spirit radiate at every inter-House event. Moreover, this year the junior girls joined Caverel and they have really taken on the Caverel spirit in sports where they help each other up when they fall, and they encourage each other to grow and excel at their chosen sport. We are Caverel, we support each other through sport, we laugh and enjoy during sport and lastly, we push our limits through sport.’

Rako’s Peace movement was a highlight of the Year as she managed to convince the House, the School and then our local Primary school to make origami cranes as a symbol of Peace for Ukraine.

It served to unite the House behind a shared purpose and cemented our Benedictine values.

Several girls have spoken in Hymn practice this year: Rako spoke with Dr Tapia about her Peace Week, Ciara spoke with Mrs Alcantara about the psychology of the environment, and Maya and Laila delivered a talk on our House charity and spoke about breast cancer. I am always very proud to see the girls overcome their nerves and address such a large and public audience of their peers and teachers.

Anna McGarry House Mistress

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ISABELLA Head of House: Valentine Lesault Deputy Head of House: Scarlett Vaux House prefects: Maria Diamond, Eleanor Howlett, Pui Yin Huang, Arianwen Ramruttun, Scarlett Ridge, Joccoaa Weatherhead

party would not be complete without a dress code, this year being your favourite movie character.

Our first House party captured a great energy and bonding, as we all enjoyed Miss Ball’s fantastic food and ended the evening with everyone dancing in the common room. This first Saturday This year has been an incredibly good year for back set out how our Saturday night feasts went Isabella, and the Isabella spirit has continued to throughout the year, in which all the different years be an important aspect of everything that we gathered and enjoyed food and music, which was have done as a House. This year started off strong always deliciously set up by our House team! Our for Isabella House with a full and busy half term, Saturday nights in Isabella this year are ones that filled-full of exciting activities for all the year groups. will not be forgotten, starting with a silent disco As always, our excellent prefect team was in full in which the whole House gathered and dance, motion planning the infamous annual House party which managed not to disrupt Mr Westlake too and preparing the House to welcome old and much (for a change). This year our House Council, new Isabella pupils back for the academic term. which met on Fridays with a member from each We kickstarted the year with the House Prefects year, began personalised feast nights, starting with coming in a day early to prepare the House and to an amazing Brazilian night, where Sofia Collier’s and welcome all our new Isabella pupils with activities Emily Stanislas’ mums cooked us authentic delicious for the girls to get to know each other. Activities traditional Brazilian food! There were many other included splat, guess the name of the song, as well themes, including potato night, prepared by as just having friendly conversations getting to know Maria Diamond, Scarlett Ridge and Pu Yin Huang. one another. Our House party on the first Saturday Eurovision was also celebrated as well as many back, featured a variety of games, such as sardines, others. Our Saturday evenings were followed by karaoke, and an extremely competitive round of fun filled Sunday activities, such as rock climbing, musical chairs, where, of course, the Lower Sixth exploring caves, bath trips, mountain biking and and Fourth Form demonstrated their soaring Frome market trips. There is really never a dull team spirits, which was retained and exemplified moment in Isabella. Isabella’s community really throughout the rest of the year. An Isabella House shone through with all different years skating

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together and helping one another. Despite the end of Lent Term being very busy, we still managed our annual Easter bake-off competition, with each year group enthusiastically showcasing their creativity and demonstrating their decorating skills. The competition featured a wide range of delectable cakes from Easter egg shaped cakes to a bunny’s burrow. A voting form, with pictures of the cakes, was sent to all staff around School who were able to vote for their favourite cake. It was no surprise that yet again, the Lower Sixth took the prize.

Music has continued to be an important aspect of life in Isabella, and we are fortunate to have so many dedicated musicians in the House. Ari

It is always said that in Isabella if we do anything, we do it to the best of our ability. has been a remarkable Music Captain this year, and as well as her showcasing her own individual talent, she has encouraged and supported others in various musical events with choir and orchestra but has also been encouraging of the younger members of the House. As the year has progressed it has been a privilege to see so many Isabella girls perform in such a wide variety of musical events and concerts. Music started the year, as, in the very first week of term, we started rehearsing for the annual House music competition. We enjoyed learning the dances, lyrics and the hymn and our song and dance will forever be ingrained in us. The whole House gathered and got their competitive spirits high, which led to our winning best song Viva la Vida! As the first big house event of the year, House Music is at the heart of establishing what the House can do, if it works together.

Isabella girls are always busy, and this year has

been no exception. Isabella girls have led the way in CCF, and we are delighted to have the head of the Navy and Army sections in House next year.

Ten Tors and D of E have challenged some of the girls, but every girl has done her best to challenge herself and has always returned incredibly proud of what she has achieved. Debating has continued to be an area of strength in Isabella, and Edith and Bea have led the House debating team with exceptional skill, but what has been particularly admirable has been their ability to support and encourage younger members of the House to debate for the first time. We look forward to many years of strong debating from Isabella. The mock trial also saw Isabella girls experience life in court, and all enjoyed the final trip to Southampton, where they were able to demonstrate their skills in the courtroom.

Sport has constantly brought the House together and helped us to bond, but it must be said, Isabella has had a mixed year. However, we managed to pull off a victory in the Christmas dash on a freezing cold December morning, thanks largely to Jaccoaa’s eating expertise and a determined group of girls who stepped up to represent the House, regardless the ice and the snow. Despite always working as a team in

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House competitions, we then had to wait until the Summer Term, before enjoying further sporting success. We celebrated the win of House tennis matches, where the girls came together to win all their year group matches to take the overall win.

The grand final of the interhouse sporting calendar is Sports Day: even though the sun had sadly gone away, it did not stop Isabella, as we showed true Isabella spirit with the most entries into each race, to take the win for Mrs Westlake’s last Interhouse competition.

It is always said that in Isabella if we do anything, we do it to the best of our ability. As ever, an Isabella House at home is always an event to remember. We were delighted to welcome again so many Isabella families to join us in School for our annual House at home. Being able to welcome our families into our home is a lovely thing to be able to do and gives everyone the chance to see what we do as a House. Following Mass, and some short speeches, we held our annual fete with a variety of fun stalls, that were organised and run by each year group. We had every classic from ‘hook a duck’ to the now famous human fruit machine.

We were all very envious of the Fourth Form who correctly guessed the weight of the cake and so enjoyed teatime cake for the following week. The event raised over £1000 for our House charity “we get it”, which is a small local charity based in Bath that offers a wide range of aid for families

and individuals, who have been affected by cancer.

Isabella House at home was a special day to remember as families got to see the Isabella family at work. After the fete we all shared delicious lunch together as family and friends united, before ending the day by welcoming our families for coffee and a chat in Isabella. Some parents were even able to manage a sneaky room inspection, but all girls were prepared, and everyone had tidied up the night before!

This year has also seen a number of big national events that Isabella has commemorated and celebrated. The sad death of Her Majesty the Queen at the beginning of the year brought the School together to mark the passing of an inspirational woman, and as a House, we came together in prayer and thanksgiving. We were then able in the summer to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III. Isabella House was resplendent with an abundance of bunting (we all know how much Mrs Westlake loves her bunting) and we even had red, white and blue fairy lights! On the day itself, we all donned our red, white and blue and our crowns. As well as watching the celebrations on the television we also had lots of fun under the balloon arch in the House photo booth. Of course, we also celebrated with some delicious picnic food, including sausage rolls, coronation chicken and much more. There was also much hilarity on inflatables and the bucking broncho. It was definitely

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a day that we will all remember. Sharing important events and making memories is something we value as a House.

Another Annual event in the Isabella calendar is Christmas, where it is no surprise that Isabella goes full out with Christmas spirit. Everyone had been working hard with end of term exams and House competitions, so we had to finished with a big Christmas party! The House theme was “The North Pole” so the House was decorated as the North Pole and Santa’s workshop. We all gathered in the Christmas spirt with every year group dressed up as different creatures from the North Pole with Lower Sixth winning best year group costume and dressed as reindeers. The party consisted of fun activities. We had an escape room in in Santa’s sleigh room and made toys in the toy workshop, but the favourite activity was Mother Christmas’ café, where we decorated cookies and made hot chocolate with all of trimmings! The evening also included a final judgment of the House

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door competition, judged by the Head of Art, Mrs Williams. Our Lower Sixth and Fourth Form (again) took it very seriously with amazing doors, such as the Narnia corridor. It was no surprise that the ever-competitive Lower Sixth won best corridor (for the fourth year running), with all their doors based on the poem ‘the Night before Christmas’.

We can, of course, not fail to mention our annual visit from Father Christmas, and it was a relief to discover that so many of us were on the good list this year and he brought gifts for us all. What a great end to lead us to our Christmas break.

As well as enjoying our time in House, we have enjoyed venturing beyond Isabella and there have also been lots of fun trips out during the year. In January, we decided to be brave and the whole House went on an amazing ice-skating trip. We discovered some girls possessed hidden skating talents, and it was lovely to see them supporting and encouraging girls who had never set foot on an ice rink before, showing true Isabella spirit.

Shopping in Bath has continued to be the all-time favourite trip, but we have also enjoyed visits to Sherborne market, Ninja warriors, crazy golf, the Christmas Pantomime and several trips to the cinema. Mrs St Clair must now know every girl’s McDonald’s order after so many visits this year.

Whilst we love Isabella, we have also loved being able to go on so many lovely trips together this year.

It is important in Isabella to celebrate what we achieve every day and to learn to work as a team, so it was good to see so many Isabella girls being celebrated at Speech Day. We were also delighted to win the Sweats cup for the most merits given to a House. This truly shows how hard Isabella have worked this year and was very much deserved for the dedication and hard work that the whole House has put into their academic studies throughout the year.

Once again, Isabella has been led by a particularly hard working and dedicated prefect team. Valentine Lesault has proven herself to be an outstanding Head of House and led this year with a dedication that has been an inspiration to us all.

Scarlett Vaux has been an incredibly supportive deputy Head of House, who has worked alongside Joccoaa Weatherhead, Arianwen Ramruttun, Maria Diamond, Scarlett Ridge, Pu Yin Huang, Isobel Crowther and Eleanor Howlett. They have all demonstrated servant leadership in their roles as prefects this year. Maria Materna has been a wonderful Head of First, Second and Third Form girls. She can always be relied upon to find time to support the younger girls in the House. We have also been delighted to see the Lower Sixth girls step up as House prefects, and their support has been particularly appreciated as they have helped to support the prefects and the House team.

Isabella is very much the House that it is because it is made up of so many remarkable people who all work together to do their very best to make it the very special place that it is. Isabella’s House team can always be relied upon to go above and do their best. Our House Parents, Miss Ford,

Miss Ball, Mrs St Clair and Mrs Fry, all contribute to the smooth running of the House and support us all. Miss Culverwell has brought so much enthusiasm to her role as resident tutor in Isabella and has truly become an Isabella girl over the past two years. She is going to be missed as she returns to her native Scotland to train as a teacher, but we know she will be amazing at whatever she does in the future. The Isabella Tutor team is as ever a truly remarkable group, who do everything to support the girls and the life of the House. They not only support the girls academically and pastorally, but always go above and beyond at every House event. Miss Ball, Mr Bevan, Dr Kelsh, Ms Shaw, Mrs Williams, Mrs Spurling and Dr Leatherbarrow, we thank you for being the best House tutors a House could wish to have.

As we come to another end of another busy academic year and we look back at what we have achieved as a House, it is again a joy to be able to see how much Isabella has achieved and to say that Isabella continues to be an incredible, special place, and so much more than a boarding House. It is a community, with an incredible heart and a spirit, that shines through in every single member of the House community. Isabella will change and move on but being part of Isabella will always remain with those of us who have been a part of Isabella, for a lifetime.

Karen Westlake House Mistress

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POWELL Head of House: Yan Hang (Dylan) Chan (Smythe) Deputy Head of House: Caspar Shaw (Roberts) House prefects: Sebastian Baker, Aristo Cham, Kai Wai Cheng, Constantin Eisenkopf, James Freely, Charlie Hayhurst, Toby Jones, Yvo Melotte, George Moorhouse, Rupert Sharifi, Oliver Westlake, Ormond Yeung As my first year as a House Master at Downside draws to a close, I can reflect on the past ten months of the dynamic boarding environment in Powell. It is an honour to play a part in the development of pupils, having seen them arrive in September, many new to the School and for some, new to the country. I was amazed by the welcome given by existing pupils to help new pupils (and House Masters) settle into the School.

I was also thankful to the House Team, particularly David Pollard, who became Smythe House Master at the end of the Lent Term, following six years as Assistant House Master in Powell. The team of tutors were also hugely supportive to staff and pupils, through tutoring, duties and tutor trips with the boys. Lisa Packer (Assistant House Mistress, Summer Term) Chris Stowell (Resident Tutor), Siobhan Allen, Michelle Leung and Sue Moody. A special mention must also be made to our House Parents Michelle Pollard and Tina Biberger, who do so much for the boys

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each day and our cleaners Vicky and Nicky, for providing a clean and tidy environment for the boys to live in.

Throughout the year, the boys have been involved in a range of co-curricular activities including Drama, Music, Sport and CCF. I have enjoyed coaching the U14 Rugby and U13 Cricket teams, which provided opportunities for pupils in some cases to play these sports for the first time.

Personal highlights, were the rugby victory against Wells Cathedral in the last game of the season, demonstrating the great progress the team had made after losing to the same opposition prior to half term. Under the leadership of Finlay Baker and Cameron Colbourne, significant contributions were made by Tristan Oriol Munoz Rojas in defence (resulting in a trip to A & E) and Orson Greensmith in attack. The U13s also won the final cricket game in a dramatic manner against a wellmatched Bryanston XI, with captain Oscar Tagent taking four wickets and scoring 60 runs to lead the team to victory with three balls remaining. He was ably supported by Olly Hayhurst (two wickets) and batting partnerships with Makuo Ugwouke and Ollie Bellord.

The House at Home event was particularly successful in November and was a real showcase for musical talent within the House. There were notable performances from many of the boys,

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It was great to see many pupils grow in confidence throughout the trip, support each other and develop friendships across the Houses. including Luc Joy, Xavier Mossman, Stephen Onyejindu-Okonji, Ermin Cheung, Orson Greensmith and Inigo Quaiffe.

Many pupils’ efforts and academic progress have been rewarded throughout the year with merits, Head’s Teas, Certificates and chocolate. The following pupils received prizes in the end of year assembly: Ollie Bellord (Academic Achievement & Essay Prize), Olly Hayhurst and Joe Thomas (Progress Prize), Ermin Cheung (RS), Seth Michaels (Drama & German), Louis D’Estampes Vallancey (Computer Science), Zuba Kwan (Biology), Ting Him Ryan Tong (Chemistry & Physics), Finlay Baker (PE). Special mentions should be made to Luc Joy (Mackenzie Cup), Oscar Rooney (Junior Cup for Boys Sport) and Dylan Chan (Gregorian Medal) for their thoroughly deserved School Awards.

We have held many trips during the year including Paintballing, the Pantomime, Bath and Bristol Rugby, Bristol Flyers Basketball, Air Hop, Ninja Warrior, Bath Shopping, Crazy Golf and Ten Pin Bowling.

On the last weekend of term, the Third Form boys and girls attended Skern Lodge, which is a residential Outdoor Education Centre in Appledore Devon. The pupils participated in kayaking, climbing, surfing and had opportunities to work as a team throughout. It was great to see many pupils grow in confidence throughout the trip, support each other and develop friendships across the Houses.

During the Summer Term, we celebrated the Confirmation of Orson Greensmith, Inigo Quaiffe, Tristan Oriol Munoz Rojas, Alvaro Herrando Crespo and Louis D’Estampes Vallancey. The

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following boys also received their first Holy Communion during Sunday Mass towards the end of term: Johnny Scanlan, Ollie Bellord and Ryan Ezeh. These were special events for the boys with their family and friends and we thank the Chaplaincy Team, particularly Paul Andrewartha for their help and support in preparation for this.

I have been really impressed with the role that Dylan Chan and Caspar Shaw have played while leading the Prefect Team. Their ability to maintain an academic focus in preparation for university, whilst selflessly devoting time to the boys in Powell should be really commended. They have been excellent role models; we thank them for their support and wish them success in their future endeavours.

Moving forwards, we are fortunate to have Yvo Melotte and Oliver Westlake as Head and Deputy of Powell next year.

Andy Hamilton House Master

ROBERTS Head of House: Archie Smellie Deputy Head of House: Tsun Shing (Jason) Au Guest Master: Ryan Yuen Sports Captain and Head of Sacristy: Pedro Puente Hervella House prefects: Samuel Boas Syed, Pedro Puente Hervella, Ching Yu (Ryan) Yuen, Caspar Shaw, Frederick Whitaker

Mrs Scott and Mrs Muse are outstanding House Parents, and I only hope my children will encounter people as caring and supportive as these two ladies when they attend secondary school. Mrs Scott and Mrs Muse keep the House running, always going above and beyond. They set a fantastic example through their high standards and, above all, their warm and compassionate natures.

We have been very fortunate to gain a Resident It has been another enjoyable and successful year in Tutor in Roberts House this year. Mr O’Neill Roberts House across the different areas of School joined Roberts in September, bringing wisdom, a life, from the weekend House socials to sporting most measured sense of perspective, and a superb events. I hope the following will give you valuable sense of humour. He immediately built a brilliant insight into being a member of this House and rapport with the Roberts boys, some of whom living in this great community. have enjoyed learning his magic tricks! I also have We are blessed to have an excellent staff the pleasure of working with Mr O’Neill in the team, with each person investing so much in the Religious Studies department. care they take of the pupils. I am so grateful to Carol, our cleaner, is also an essential member of these tremendous people who demonstrate such the House, working tirelessly to keep the place in sincerity in their approach and are so thorough tidy order and seeking to pass her unrivalled high in their service to the pupils and the School as a standard of cleanliness on to the boys! whole.

The Roberts tutor team is fantastic, and I am Dr Tapia, our Assistant House Master, is always delighted there will be minimal changes to this fair and never short of good advice. He is an for the next School year, providing stability for the outstanding Head of Mathematics and an integral pupils. The brilliant Mr Bryson and Mr Dolman have part of Roberts House, giving up so much time to looked after the Fourth Form impeccably. It has help the pupils, whether academically or pastorally. been great to welcome Mr Dolman to the Roberts It is a joy to work alongside him as a colleague and team this year, and I particularly enjoyed the a friend. competition between Mr Bryson and Mr Dolman

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to see whose tutees earned the most merits! Mr Jones carried the tutees he looked after last year into the Fifth Form this year. This has provided great continuity for them, and the resilience Mr Jones instils in the boys certainly helped them through their GCSE examinations. Mr Rigby is a fine teacher and tutor, who is spoken about so fondly by so many pupils. We are delighted he is part of Roberts House.

Our excellent Upper Sixth Prefect team have been instrumental in making Roberts a happy and successful place. Archie, Jason, Ryan Y, Pedro, Freddie and Caspar – thank you for all your hard work – you really will be missed, not just by me, but also by my wife and children. My son will particularly miss Archie and Freddie, who he has decided are his “honorary big brothers!”

I would also like to thank Ryan W, who stepped up to the plate in the second half of this year, filling the shoes of the brilliant Sam, who left us to enjoy life in Menorca! Ryan became a valuable member of the prefect team, and I am grateful to him for this.

There have been so many highlights this year, and I regret that I am therefore not able to include details of them all here. We have had another successful year in sport, emerging as the overall winners of the Inter-House Rugby in the Michaelmas Term. We were also victorious in the Inter-House Hockey competition in the Lent Term. This was mainly due to the excellent play of the juniors who played exceptionally well before the senior matches had to be cut short due to

Another highlight of the year was the School production of Chicago, in which Caspar Shaw gave an outstanding performance, representing Roberts exceptionally.

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torrential rain! Roberts also won the Christmas Dash and, more recently, the Inter-House Athletics, Sports Day event in the Summer Term. As Sports Captain, Pedro certainly deserves a special mention; his encouragement and support of his peers were instrumental. The sporting talent of our Head of House, Archie Smellie, also played a large part. He is an exceptional sportsman and has represented the School’s 1st teams in all three major sports, captaining the hockey team.

Another highlight of the year was the School production of Chicago, in which Caspar Shaw gave an outstanding performance, representing Roberts exceptionally. Caspar also impressed people on the stage earlier in the year, during the House Music Competition. He won the prize for Best Conductor, with the judge of the competition commenting that he should not rule conducting out as a future career! Caspar also led our debating team to the final of this year’s Abingdon Debating Competition, ably supported by next year’s Head of House, Ru Sharifi, as well as Constantin Eisenkopf and Ormond Yeung.

This is not the only area of the life of the House to which Ormond has contributed this year. He has been fantastic in his role as a Leader of the St Luke’s Community, organising the Roberts House Mass each term, which is a vital part of our life as a community, bringing us together to reflect and worship. Ormond has also been involved in preparing gourmet food for House socials, together with Ka Wai Cheng. These events have been so enjoyable for pupils and staff and have helped build relationships and camaraderie within the House. As Guest Master and Assistant Guest Master next year, I look forward to Ormond and Ka Wai continuing to be excellent hosts.

Freddie Whitaker has contributed so much this year as Head of School – a busy and demanding post which he has handled graciously. He has been a great ambassador for Roberts House and Downside School in this role and I thank him for this. I only hope we will not have to wait too long before Roberts provides another Head of School!

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Members of Roberts House continue to enjoy competing against each other and pupils in other Houses in regular chess matches. The future of chess in Roberts certainly seems bright under the guidance of Freddy Trounce who leads by example and has kindly started to help me improve my game; this is not a small undertaking as there is certainly much room for improvement! As a result of the interest so many pupils were showing in chess, and the lovely way it was bringing people together, we decided to dedicate an area of the House to socialising and playing Chess. With three red Roberts’s sofas and two chess boards, this area has been named the Ávila Bridge, after St. Teresa of Ávila who is the patron saint of chess. Pupils now have an additional place to socialise with friends from Roberts and other Houses.

Moving forward, my focus remains on cultivating a House where we encourage each other, celebrate each other’s achievements and support each other through the challenges and difficulties we face.

Roberts is a House in which members take pride and want to contribute towards both its successes and its day-to-day running. It is a House where people take responsibility for the mistakes they make and seek to learn from these rather than cover them up. This is only possible because of the great group of young men in Roberts who, overall, buy into this and want to be part of a supportive and caring House. Thank you, boys.

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I wish everyone who is leaving the House at the end of this year every happiness and success with their future endeavours, and I look forward to working with those who are remaining with us next year!

Awards and Honours House Caps: Archie Smellie, Jason Au, Ryan Yuen, Pedro Puente, Freddie Whitaker, Casper Shaw, Constantin Eisenkopf.

House Half Colours: Ormond Yeung, Constantin Eisenkopf The Tambling Cup: Jason Au The CCF Prize: Pedro Puente Hervella Design Subject Prize: Caspar Shaw The Regimental Sergeant Major Cup: Caspar Shaw The Cave Cup for Sportsman of the Year: Archie Smellie The Timothy Fogg Poetry Prize: Freddie Whitaker Josh Freeman House Master

SMYTHE Head of House: Matthew Stanislas Deputy Head of House: Ivor Jones House prefects: Charlie Boarder, Zach Healey, Leo Matthews, Ambrose Mui, Thomas Pike, Ayrton Rose, Oliver Webb

generations of Smythians; we have enjoyed these years with these fine young men enormously.

This year’s cohorts have been no exception to what I have come to expect of the boys in House. The Upper Sixth have been an able and willing prefect body, supporting those lower down It is a peculiar thing to be writing the first part the School with advice and encouragement. of this report – as ever in the dying days of a Matthew Stanislas has led the Prefects with gentle glorious Summer Term – from another school, authority, supported by Ivor Jones whose smile having handed over the reins in Smythe to my and enthusiasm has never failed across his time in successor at Easter, but it is equally a wonderful the School; the willingness of Matthew and Ivor opportunity to reflect on the pleasures of having to join in seeing the funny side in any issues that been House Master over the first two terms of have arisen, especially before and immediately after the year, my seventh in the House, my eighth at morning Assembly, was always appreciated. Dylan Downside. Smythe is without doubt an outstanding Chan made an absolutely outstanding contribution House, and under Mr Pollard’s guidance and care to the life of the wider School community in his will assuredly go from strength to strength. What it role as Head of Powell; his hard work was noted means to be an outstanding House at Downside, by staff, and his empathetic care welcomed by the however, may fairly be defined in the strength of younger pupils. It is, at times, a difficult position the community that lives, works, and plays together; for even a mature and sensible pupil like Dylan that fragile ecosystem of four years of teenage boys to fill, but the impact that he has had on the year all under one roof. And what has made Smythe the groups under his watch will be felt over the coming outstanding House that it is has been – throughout terms and years as they progress into their senior my years as House Master – has been the good Houses. These three Upper Sixth were awarded humour, good nature, and deep-rooted respect their House Cap for their work as leaders in the of the boys for one another and for their homecommunity. Aryton Rose was also awarded his from-home. It has also been our home-from-home, Cap: he has represented Smythe in singing and and Clare, Abigail, and I have all appreciated the musical events and competitions not merely over consideration given to that point by successive four years, but since his time in Powell too – it is a

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well-deserved award recognizing commitment to our community.

Rarely, I think have all of the Upper Sixth left with Full Colors, but I hope not too much in the manner of an outgoing Prime Minister, I was pleased to acknowledge the contribution that each of them has made to the House, or to the wider School, in service, in academic rigour, in music, in sport. They are followed by a very able Lower Sixth among whom Pawel Korczagin merits mention: his enthusiasm for Smythe and willingness to involve himself in every part of the life of the House and the School from the moment he arrived in September was commendable. Luke McGarry is to be congratulated too on the leadership he has shown in House sporting competitions, and on having been selected – as indeed was Charlie Boarder – for the Bath Under-18s Rugby squad.

Several of the Lower Sixth performed admirably as Powell Prefects, and I am confident that as they move into their final year in the School they will continue to show that Gregorian spirit of service.

I am not, myself, in any way musically talented.

But one of the great joys of the role of House Master has been the musical ability and enthusiasm that the boys have consistently shown. James Mason-Carney and Euan Elston are especially to be congratulated for their selection for National Youth Choirs. At this year’s House Singing Competition in October the House was awarded Best Part Song for the performance of Pentatonix’ Run to You by Ayrton, James, Pawel, Dylan, Euan, Luke together with Charlie Maggs. Pawel was further recognized as Best Musician in the competition, and Smythe won the Best House of the Opposite Gender to the Winner – or as the boys have it, “Best Boys’ House”, although I think on this occasion, they came very close indeed to winning the overall prize with their super renditions of the hymn Jerusalem and Journey’s Don’t Stop Believin’. The adjudicator commented that the House “genuinely looked like they were enjoying their performance,” which says much for the spirit of Smythe.

A highlight of the year is always the House

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at Home early in the Lent Term. It is a fabulous opportunity to share with parents and the wider School community some of the life of the House, and especially some of the talents of the boys.

Familiar names from the House Singing were joined by others in sharing their musical talents in the Gasquet Room – Evens Fu on the violin, Alfred Chan on the oboe, Freddie Dentskevich on the saxophone, Bryn Jennings joining Pawel for a duet on the saxophone and trumpet, and Dylan on the drums. Lunch afterwards was, as ever, a splendid chance to meet one another and share in a lovely meal; I very much look forward to attending Isabella House at Homes as a parent over the next few years and to retaining a link with this excellent Downside tradition.

This year felt, at last, as though the impact of the pandemic lockdowns had become a distant memory and the House had returned to genuinely normal running. It was a delight to welcome a substantial number of new pupils into both the Fourth and Fifth Forms in September, and all settled quickly and enthusiastically into the life of the House. Smythe-a-side – an internal football competition held in the Sports Hall after Prep – resumed, with thanks to Mr Staines who made this possible, and it was pleasing to see most boys wanting to be involved. The House also put in a good performance in the Christmas Dash: Ivor was this year’s eater, and the Powell runners showed their sporting prowess – we will have some good sportsmen in the House in the years to come.

I pay tribute here, as ever, to the character of the boys of this House, and especially those leaving the community whether at the end of their Upper Sixth year or sooner; whether they have spent four years in Smythe or just a term. They are without exception remarkable young men, and we wish every one of them joy and success in their lives beyond Downside. It has been a real pleasure, and an honor, to share in life of this House over the last seven years.

I record my thanks as always to all the House Staff: Tutors, House Parents, Domestic staff. Mr

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Ramsden is an excellent Assistant Housemaster and it was great to be joined in September by Mr Howard as Resident Tutor. Ms Nash and Mrs Filer are quite the finest and most dependable House Parents one might wish for. The Tutor team has supported the boys academically and socially, and Tutors in Smythe have always been willing to the extra mile for their tutees; I hope that the boys have appreciated this – I have. Finally, I record my thanks to my wife, Mrs Storey, who is remaining at Downside in her role as Head of Learning Support.

I could not have been House Master without her love and support, and as I have said often whenever the boys found me in good humour despite events… it was because Mrs Storey was there in the background.

I have loved being House Master of Smythe; I wish the House and all its members every success for the future, and hope that Mr Pollard will derive as much pleasure and satisfaction from the role as I have. I was thrilled to be given my House Cap by the boys: it sits in my study in my new school, a permanent reminder of many happy years.

impressions he has left on so many pupils. I feel privileged to have taken over from him and in so many ways his work, dedication and commitment over the years have made my transition that much easier. I still have a great deal to learn, and I guess in this role we never stop learning. However, this term I have had the luxury of sharing a House with boys who are trustworthy, well rounded and kind-natured individuals. This is in the main down to John’s strong leadership, guidance, and positive engagement with each pupil, coupled with the support from a fantastic team of House parents, tutors and residential staff. I am sure John will be remembered fondly and I wish him all the best in his new role at Winchester College.

The Summer Term is short and frenetic, with so

This insightful and at times personal speech resonated throughout the audience. I felt Revd John Storey humbled listening to such a House Master to June 2023 powerful performance, and I was in awe of his unwavering After finally managing to squeeze my last remaining confidence and passion. reports through and hopefully before embarking on another Gold Duke of Edinburgh Expedition I wanted to take the opportunity to thank my predecessor, Revd John Storey for taking the time to write such a thoughtful and powerful House annual review. I fear that adding too much at this stage would not do his words justice and I would not want to dilute in any way the thoughts and feelings he would most certainly have left with the reader. My time will come, and I can only hope I can manage to muster the passion and warmth he has injected into this important annual ritual.

During my short time as the custodian of Smythe House, I can clearly see the massive legacy that has been left by John, not only regarding the House itself but also in the lasting positive

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much focus being placed on public examinations.

With that said it is also a time for pupils to enjoy all that Downside has to offer. It would be difficult to acknowledge all the achievements this term however I feel it would be remiss of me not to highlight the fantastic achievements of just two of our pupils. James, from the Fourth, set himself a huge challenge to raise money for a charity close to his heart, supporting children with alopecia and other forms of hair loss. It is this sort of selfless attitude and empathy for others that makes a difference and I know the Smythe community are proud of what James has achieved.

During the latter half of May, Ambrose, Upper Sixth Form addressed the whole School about neurodiversity. This insightful and at times personal speech resonated throughout the audience. I felt humbled listening to such a powerful performance, and I was in awe of his unwavering confidence and passion.

Finally, I would like to echo John’s remarks about our most senior pupils, and I wish them every success as they embark on the next stages of their lives. They are leaving with their heads high and with the confidence that they are ready for whatever challenges lay ahead. These are exciting times for our leavers however I know they will all have fond memories and will miss the comradeship and friendships established in Smythe. Dare I say it, I also think most will quietly miss the routines and structure that Smythe House brings, from morning assemblies to biscuit mania at the half!

As we embark on a well-deserved summer break, I look forward to the many challenges and fun times that next year will surely bring. We are fortunate to have a very strong cohort of new Upper Sixth Form pupils and I am confident that Seb and Jamie, our newly appointed Head and Deputy Head of House, along with a strong prefect body will return in September brimming with enthusiasm as we welcome our next cohort of new pupils into the Smythe family.

House Awards 2022-2023 Caps: Matthew Stanislas, Dylan Chan, Ayrton Rose, Ivor Jones, Revd John Storey.

Colours: Ambrose Mui, Tom Pike, Leo Matthews, Oliver Webb, Charlie Boarder, Zach Healey, Pawel Korczagin, Luke McGarry, Freddie Dentskevich, Charlie Maggs, Harvey Hayhurst, Euan Elston, James Mason-Carney.

Half-Colours: Seb Baker, Joey Burton, Charlie Hayhurst, Jamie O’Keefe, Oliver Westlake, Bryn Jennings, Ethan Cheung, Alfred Chan, Evens Fu, Boris Priscott.

David Pollard House Master

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FROM THE DEVELOPMENT OFFICE Over this past year, the Development Office has continued to focus on strengthening relationships with all associated with Downside through an evergrowing tapestry of events. Whether you are an Old Gregorian attending a reunion with old friends, such as the Downside Wanderers Centenary Dinner at Lord’s, where over 180 guests attended, or a past parent returning to the playing fields for the Downside Association Super Saturday, there has been something for everyone to get involved with.

It was particularly enjoyable to welcome our 2020 and 2021 leavers and their parents back to Downside in December for their Leavers’ Ball, an event which had been delayed due to Covid-19.

The Refectory was the perfect backdrop for the three-course dinner, with twinkling fairy lights and a roaring fire, before the live band got guests to their feet in the Weld Café, complete with photobooth.

In May, the School and guests commemorated 80 years since the tragic air crash of 1943 where

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nine boys and the pilot lost their lives. A service was held in the Monks’ Cemetery led by Fr Michael Patey, with a contingent of the Downside CCF and the choir in attendance. It was a sombre and moving remembrance of those who had died but it was also a chance for stories to be told and memories to be shared. A Mount Fuji Cherry Tree, kindly donated by an OG, was planted as part of the commemoration.

The Downside Association reinstated the beloved Curry and Quiz night, which was another sell-out event. Thank you to Andrew Walsh-Waring (B82) who brilliantly reprised his role as Quiz Master and congratulations to the Fosseway Friends team who took the win, despite fierce competition from all.

Further social opportunities took place across the world, including the Triennial Madrid Weekend, which saw record attendance, reflecting the profound sense of belonging that binds us together across continents. Many thanks to James Scanlan

We are immensely grateful to all who have supported the School this year, enabling our vision for growth and investment in our future to continue.

(S86) who once again coordinated the weekend superbly, providing a fun and enjoyable time for all. The inaugural North Dorset drinks and dinner for OGs was also a resounding success, meaning a larger venue will be required next time!

In addition to strengthening friendships, our commitment to fostering professional networking opportunities has been even more crucial with remote working becoming more prevalent, including our Sixth Formers who will soon embark on their working career. In April, we welcomed nearly 30 OGs and parents back to Downside

for the highly successful Careers Fair. The event provided a platform for pupils to experience a breadth of life lessons and real-world perspectives, shaping their aspirations for the future. From our eldest attendee, Michael Legge (R56), who shared his insights from the fashion and Hollywood scene to ambitious entrepreneur Alex Hatvany (B09), who first qualified as a Lawyer before changing course, founding an education technology company, or to Nicholas Preston (B17) who discussed his journey of studying for his Bar exams. We are grateful to all who return to Downside and participate in academic sessions, be that the Sixth Form Lecture Series or on the playing fields with rugby masterclasses or CCF field days to name just a few!

Throughout the year, there are ample opportunities to expand connections, with new events occurring frequently. If you would like to host an event in your region or professional sector, please do let us know by emailing development@downside.co.uk.

Support for the School spanned not only events but also philanthropic generosity, facilitating fundraising endeavours to develop and enhance facilities across the estate whilst protecting the life-changing access to the Bursary Fund, which is essential to so many families in today’s world.

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Following the success of last year’s Giving Day in June, we wanted to ensure that each person had access to contribute to the Bursary Fund, no matter how big or small. It is for this reason that the 1814 Society was established and launched as part of last year’s Development Annual Report. Centred around our founding year in Stratton-on-the-Fosse, 1814, whilst looking to the future of the School.

We are humbled and immensely grateful to all who have become members and felt able to invest £18.14 a month or more. These regular donations directly impact the lives of ambitious and talented pupils at Downside and the vision is to encourage

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all to get involved in some way, as together, we can achieve so much more.

As you will read in the Music Report, the corridors, Houses and Music Rooms were blessed to receive an uplift in facilities at the start of the 2022 academic year with an enormously generous, anonymous donation of 16 new pianos, including the esteemed Steinway Model B, now at the heart of the Fleishner Theatre. The impact on both pupils and staff was immediate and the sound of music is now often heard throughout the School from somewhere within the building. We are also excited to welcome our first Sill Organ Scholars in

September 2023, as a result of another immensely generous donor.

The Music Department was not the only area to be the beneficiary of new facilities. The Downside Wanderers Cricket Club generously donated new mobile covers and boundary ropes with thanks to the auction held at their Centenary Dinner.

The tennis and netball courts were all resurfaced during the Lent and Summer Term and the Science Department were extremely fortunate to have been donated a reflecting telescope from current parents. This generous donation will mean that an astronomy club can run during the winter.

We are immensely grateful to all who have supported the School this year, enabling our vision for growth and investment in our future to continue. As we look to the academic year of 2023-24, there are further projects on the horizon that will elevate facilities and preserve our historic heritage. One such initiative, as mentioned

by John Ludlow (C82), Chair of Governors earlier, expanding our Sixth Form offering with a new Centre situated in what was the Monastic Refectory, will dramatically transform and redefine

the experience available to our Sixth Formers.

This is just one of many developments the School has planned to ensure its progress and your unwavering support empowers us to realise our vision for growth and progress.

Finally, we said goodbye to Paige Owen, Development Assistant, in May 2023 and know that many will miss her enthusiastic personality. In May, we welcomed Silvia Acosta Santos to replace Paige as Development Assistant and in the short time Silvia has been with us, she has already immersed herself in OG and Wider Community event planning, editing content for this edition of The Raven and The Old Gregorian and begun building relationships with all associated to Downside.

If you are in the local area, please do visit the School and take a walk down memory lane to observe the modern Downside in action. Silvia and I will ensure you receive a very warm welcome.

Tours can be booked by emailing development@downside.co.uk and all events are published on the website.

Jessica Newman Director of Development

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CHAPLAINCY REPORT 2023 St Teresa Community This year the St Teresa community comprised thirteen Lower Sixth and seven Upper Sixth pupils.

The community met each Tuesday at 9pm in the Aylward Room. Every meeting combined food, Lectio and items of business and planning.

There were numerous Christ-centred service projects during the year. Before Christmas, Starfish Boxes (shoeboxes of toys for children), were delivered to St Nicholas of Tolentino Church in Bristol for distribution. In the Lent Term we raised £424.35 for the British Heart Foundation, with our ‘Roses and Rolos’ fundraiser - our largest total to date.

The Community recorded several podcasts, these have been uploaded onto Spotify. Please search for ‘St Teresa Community’ for further information.

This year a new sports service project began in the Summer Term with the local Fosse Way School, supporting pupils with a range of needs.

The Community visited each Friday lunchtime to introduce Volleyball and Tennis. This project will continue next year for the Upper SIxth members of St Teresa’s.

These were given to those people who benefit from the Bath ‘soup run’ each Thursday. Many items were generously given within the term, and they were very grateful for this act of service from the School community. St Teresa’s Community also sang carols at the final visit of term.

The weekly SoupRun is a humbling experience for the Sixth Form pupils who attend, and over the course of the year, twenty trips took place.

“Lily-Rose and I were able to go on the weekly Soup run with Mr Andrewartha. Having never been on the soup run before I did not quite know what to expect. On the way there, Lily, who had been before, assured me that it would be a unique and fulfilling experience and I would come across many new people. Upon arriving, the main thing Lily and noticed other than the killer heat was that everyone was sat around the van enjoying an ice lolly; almost immediately we were overcome by a sense of community and welcomed by everyone.

Lily and I split up as she joined the regular volunteers who were still busy at work making sure everyone got a hot meal and drink, as I made my way to the back of the van where people could come by and pick out supplies that they may need.

The people would come up and we would soon Bath SoupRun with HelpForHomeless start chatting away while we helped them pick During the Michaelmas term St Teresa’s ran the out different miscellaneous items of clothing, many HelpForHomeless Winter Emergency Appeal, with pupils and staff donating items of clothing and food. would try the pieces on then come back out to show us all and ask for our opinions. It really felt less like charity work and more like an encounter you would have with new friends. No person we met was the same, yet none of them fit into the stereotype of ‘homeless’. In all honestly it was great lesson that taught us that we can never just assume about another person’s situation, and that you can find out that much more lies beneath the surface if you just take the time to talk to them. Throughout our evening we heard many great stories and life advice that we would have never come across if

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we hadn’t had taken the time to volunteer. It was an amazing opportunity where Lily and I were so fortunate to encounter such genuine people, we can both say whole heartedly than an experience like this is beyond beneficial for you and for those involved.”

Sofia Lower Sixth Isabella

HelpForHomeless Annual Charity Sleepout The annual sleepout took place at the Abbey Church Visitor centre on Saturday 18th March. The community created a JustGiving page and raised £1170.85. On the night we were supported by Iona (the charity founder), who fed us supper in gratitude for our undertaking of this fundraiser!

During the night there was a fire pit to warm us, music, podcast recording and night prayer.

St Teresa Young Leaders This Fourth Form group met each week in the chaplaincy office, focusing on service and charities.

During Michaelmas Term, the focus was CAFOD and their World Gifts fundraiser before Christmas.

They raised £136.16 to buy the School seven World Gifts. The group also went into junior Religious Studies classes to explain World Gifts and how to buy them for their family and friends.

In the Lent Term they visited Roots Connections, a local farming and produce charity growing food for the local community.

OTHER NEWS AND EVENTS Flame 2023 On Saturday 4th March, members of the Chaplaincy team took eleven Fourth Form pupils to the National Catholic Youth Congress at Flame.

Taking place annually at London’s Wembley Arena, up to 8000 people attend each year. It is an inspiring day, with speakers including, Cardinal Tagle (former Archbishop of Manila, now working in the Roman Curia), Archbishop Costelloe SDB (Archbishop of Perth, Australia), Jenny Garzón Saavedra (a teacher from the Amazon rain forest) and Robert Bilott (an American corporate lawyer who inspired the 2019 movie ‘Dark Waters’) The group was entertained by solo artist Adeniké, Catholic worship group ‘One Hope Project’ and Christian R&B artists Guvna B and Faith Child.

The theme of the congress was, ‘Rise Up’ taken from this year’s theme for World Youth Day in Portugal. After the Angel Gabriel announced to Mary that she was going to have Jesus, she rose up

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and went with haste to meet Elizabeth. (Luke 7:39) The theme was reiterated throughout the event and the pupils were challenged to ‘rise up’ in faith and action to support the poor, refugees and to recognise the ‘angels’ that have been in their lives supported their faith. They were challenged by the speakers to live their faith and be active in it.

The day concluded with adoration led by Cardinal Vincent Nichols.

The day was a long one for the group, we left School at 8.30am and were back in School by 9.30pm, but it was an event to remember for all who attended. A great chance to meet other Catholic Young people, who were also worshiping, praying and ‘rising up’ to go in haste to the Father.

“I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of the day at Wembley Arena, from the musicians to the readers and to the adoration. Every second I spent at Flame, I was in awe of the fact that everyone who was there were so united, so in harmony with one another, it was just beautiful. Somehow, I feel so much closer to God and to my faith than I ever was, just due to the people and the event, it really moved me. Thank you so much to those who organised us going to the event, it was truly an amazing opportunity.”

James Fourth Form Smythe #RedWednesday – Aid to the Church in Need #RedWednesday has become an annual event and took place on 23rd November, a day for prayer and awareness of those persecuted for their faith. Pupils and staff were encouraged to wear something Red to commemorate and remember. Some lights in the Main Quad turned red, as well as the Pietà statue in the Theatre Quad. The day ended with a liturgy in the Old Chapel dedicated to those who suffer.

Stephen Riedlinger, the Aid to the Church in Need Charity Fundraiser for the Dioceses of Plymouth, Clifton, Cardiff and Menevia, visited our evening prayer service said, “I really enjoyed visiting on Wednesday. I often

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have wow moments in my work and your prayer meeting was a special moment. I was moved by the witness that we shared.”

CAFOD Each year we support CAFOD’s fast day in the Michaelmas and Lent Terms. Pupils and staff give up their lunchtime fish and chips in exchange for a bowl of soup with bread. The School raised £600, in the Michaelmas term for CAFOD’s Pakistan Flood Appeal and £113 for their Syrian/Turkey Earthquake appeal.

Big Lent Walk On Friday 24th March staff and pupils walked a simple circuit around both Quads to participate in CAFOD’s Big Lent Walk. A total of 242km was completed in one day! Joe, in the First Form, raised £80.60 for CAFOD’s Syrian/Turkey Earthquake appeal!

RETREATS Each academic year, every form group takes a day out for a time of reflection and faith.

Third Form Retreat The Third Form Retreat took place on 14th September and focused on ‘Forming Community’.

We read Rule 72, ‘The Good Zeal Monks should have’, had Lectio Divina, celebrated Mass and took an afternoon walk to St Andrew’s Plague Church in Holcombe.

Each House had their own experience with the Chaplaincy and House staff supporting with the input of the day. The main objective being how to explore and foster a strong and loving community in their Houses, following the example of the House’s patron, guided by the Gospel and the Rule of Saint Benedict.

Please read the reflection of Barlow’s day:

Barlow House Fourth Form Retreat The Fourth Form Retreat of September 2022 took us to a small parish community, Lamyatt, just half an hour from our School community. The group of nine were accompanied by Barlow House Master, Mr “The retreat that has recently taken place was an Potter and Resident Tutor of Barlow, Mr O’Rourke. activity that I found to be very extraordinary and We had the true blessing of a gloriously sunny day, helpful, the reason I am saying helpful is because it well worthy of the ‘Indian Summer’ tagline. Following helped me look back at all the things I have done in the past year, inside and outside of School. It also a whole year group Mass in the Abbey Church with Father Michael Patey, the party were asked helped me to bond and create new relationships to approach the day with an open mind, allowing with others in my year” Third Form Boy the voices of others in their group to be heard and echoes to be shared.

Arriving in Lamyatt, the group were welcomed Fourth Form Retreat by the wonderful key holders of the Lamyatt Parish The Fourth Form retreat took place on the 21st Hall, a truly wonderful haven for our pupils to September. Each of the senior Houses had a day feel comfortable and safe throughout the day. Mr offsite.

O’Rourke, a member of the Chaplaincy Team led - Isabella House, Lytes Cary Manor NT, the day with the initial stage of the day focused Somerton on the history of St Ambrose Barlow, the patron - Caverel House, Stourhead NT, Stourton Saint of our House. The pupils learnt about the - Barlow House, Lamyatt Parish Hall suffering and struggle that Barlow experience when - Roberts House, Walking to Doulting Well practicing his faith as an ordained priest from 1617- Smythe House, Walking from Kilmington (near 1641.

Stourton) to Witham Friary

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The group had an opportunity to share their thoughts on what makes Barlow House a strong and united community. Discussions evolved to their personal strongest values and what could be done to make their values even stronger. This was a wonderful moment as the boys shared these values with each other and were confident enough to explore these personal feelings.

Following lunch, we embarked on our loop walk from Lamyatt to the Somerset Levels viewpoint and which were visible through the hazy horizon. Along the route, the group paused to read scripture from Corinthians, Colossians and Matthew, “For where two or more are gathered in my name, I am there with them” (Mathew 18:20).

Our route also crossed extensive fossil beds, where the group uncovered ancient fossils. Mr Potter used the opportunity to educate the group on the ancient lie of the land, adding perspective to a majestic scene of God’s creation. As we entered our final descent back toward Lamyatt, we encountered our final amazing view of the day overlooking the parish of Lamyatt. Here, many of the boys experienced their first ever Lectio Divina, focusing on 1 Peter 5:5 “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble”. It was a blessing to hear some personal echoes from the pupils, we will pray that they are steadfast.

Barlow House would like to thank the boys of Fourth Form for their commitment to the day’s activities and we can be hopeful for the year ahead with the deeper understanding and municipal community of Barlow’s Fourth Form.

“For where two or more are gathered in my name, I am there with them” (Mathew 18:20) Reflections from the Barlow Fourth Form • We should all be more thankful and aware of what it means to be in Barlow House, due to the incredible sacrifice done by Ambrose Barlow.

• We all got to learn what it means to be in a community and must be more grateful and thankful for what it means to be in Barlow.

• We also learnt that we must appreciate what God has created because today we have done

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two hours of hiking and can reach the peak and enjoy the scenery.

• Because of this retreat I am now more knowledgeable of the people around me, and I have built stronger relationships with the people around me.

• Also, I have learnt to build on many of the key morals around my personality, like being patient and more aware of people around me in my community.

• I really enjoyed the view and how I could just think about different things. I learnt how to listen to different people, and I basically enjoyed the whole trip.

Upper Sixth Form Retreat The Upper Sixth Form retreat took place in early October at the Ammerdown Retreat Centre. Fr Toby Lees O.P. joined with each half of the year group. Many pupils found the talks on the virtue of courage inspiring and challenging as they prepare for life beyond Downside School. The retreat had small groups sessions, a walk up to the Ammerdown tower and we ended with Mass.

‘It was a great spiritual experience in the environment of nature, what has enabled us to relax and take a break from the intense school life. Throughout the whole day Father Toby, accompanying us Dominican, gave us few fascinating talks on courage… Father broadened our horizons and gave us great advice for the upcoming years. I know his words will stay with me for a long time.’

Upper Sixth Form Girl

Fifth Form Retreat Straight from having their mock exams, the Fifth Form had a retreat to wind down and enjoy a night away from School. The last time overnight retreats took place was back in January 2020.

Each of the Houses travelled separately to: - Isabella stayed at St Rita’s Centre - Caverel stayed at Hill House Christian Centre - Barlow stayed at Grangehurst House, Buckfast Abbey - Roberts stayed at the Guesthouse for Brownshill Monastery - Smythe stayed at The Ammerdown Centre The theme invited the pupils to think about the particular mission God is calling them to. The retreats focused on, St John Henry Newman’s ‘Link in a Chain’ prayer: ‘God has created me to do Him some definite service. He has committed some work to me which He has not committed to another.’ I have my mission.’

The retreat included the Prayer of the Church and Holy Mass. Sessions included watching either some of ‘The Chosen’ episodes or the ‘Amazing Grace’ Film (based on the life of William Wilberforce). There were also sessions about being Salt and Light in the world and Lectio Divina focused on ‘My Mission’.

‘It brought bigger bonds together and I feel connected with God’.

Caverel Fifth Former Whole School Retreat Saturday 11th March, the Third to Upper Sixth Form had their annual School retreat. Only taking place in the morning. The theme was ‘Community living’ with the retreat helping to begin and further the process towards the Schools’ ‘Charter of Community living’. Undertaking Lectio in their tutor groups, Christ’s Parable of the Good Samaritan gave the pupils and staff the encouragement to grow deeper as a community.

The retreat ended with Hymn practice in which Mr Andrewartha spoke about the deeper meaning of ‘The Good Samaritan’ and Community living to encourage everyone not to be ‘an Island’ of themselves and just ‘walk by’ situations that they face, but to be like the Samaritan, seeing those who need help and helping them.

Second Form Retreat The Second Form Retreat took place on the 28th of March at Lamyatt Village Hall. The theme was ‘The Voice of God’. Activities and input in the morning focused on the different ‘voices’ in our life. For the afternoon, we had a walk which involved stopping points for Lectio and ended with Mass in the local parish church.

Lower Sixth Form Retreat The Lower Sixth Form retreat took place on Wednesday 14th and Thursday 15th June. The year group was split in to two groups.

‘It was a really nice to reflect on life and the The focus of the day was about ‘Reaching out to prayer was really relaxing. It was a nice bonding Others’. experience filled with food, games and dancing!’

Each group was based at St James’ Priory, a Isabella Fifth Former beautiful church and the oldest building in Bristol.

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The church is known to be one of the starting points for many people making their pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela.

The day began in the School with morning prayer, supported by the Manquehue and introduced by the Lay Chaplain. Then onto the coach.

The morning session started in Bristol with the group separated into six groups. Assisted by staff members pupils visited six charities. The charities involved were CAP in Bristol, Emmaus House, Wild Goose Cafe, Spring of Hope House, St Nicholas of Tolentino with the Boarderlands Charity and Jamaica Street Project.

The pupils were encouraged to ask questions, to find out why and how these charities support the most vulnerable in our society.

After lunch, there was a time of midday prayer and Lectio, which included a reflection on the charities that they had visited.

They then had an explanation of the nature of Addiction and people who were recovering addicts give their testimonies within the small groups.

The experience of the day was brought together

by Fr Michael with a prayer service, praying for the charities that were visited and those we met who were in recovery.

First Form Retreat The First Form Retreat took place on Friday 23rd June, at Witham Friary. The retreat theme was ‘Friendship in Christ’. Lectio, Mass, games and activities supported this theme.

I would like to thank Fr Michael Patey, Vicente Tagle, Cristobal Valdes, Rodrigo Vidal, Conor

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O’Rourke, Pascual Soza and Owain Daley for all their work and support that they have given to the faith journeys of the pupils and the Chaplaincy department, this academic year.

‘I pray that you may have the power to comprehend, with all the saints, what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, so that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to him who by the power at work within us is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, for ever and ever. Amen.’ Ephesians 3:18-21 Paul Andrewartha Lay Chaplain

OUTLINE OF THE YEAR 31 August 2022 4 September 5 September 8 September 8 September

9 September 10 September 14 September 21 September 26 September 3/4 October 9 October 1 November 2 November 3 November 7 November 10 November 11 November 13 November 23 November 23 November ADVENT 3 December 8 December 12 December 15 December 31 December 6 January 2023 9 January

Retreat morning for chaplaincy team New Pupil’s Service Opening Mass of the year – Mass of the Holy Spirit.

10th anniversary 7:40am Mass Death of Queen Elizabeth II Lighting candles in the old chapel Requiem Mass for Queen Elizabeth II Relic visit of St Bernadette, Clifton cathedral Third form Retreat Fourth Form Retreat – Caverel to Stourhead Smythe House Mass Upper Sixth Form Retreat SS John Roberts & Ambrose Barlow All Saints Mass All Souls Service Diocesan Mass in Clifton Reconciliation services begin Lectio Celebration (Weld) Remembrance Remembrance Sunday Reconciliation with First FormThird Form Red Weds liturgy Wreath by art, crib by art…

Nightfever – Gasquet Immaculate Conception London Carol Service Carol Service Death of Benedict XVI Epiphany Mass with staff Whole School Mass – Mass of Holy Name

10 January 16 January 17 January 24 January 2 February 22 Feb 24 February 25 February 26 February 1 March 2 March 4 March 11 March 13 March 16 March 21 March 28 March 30 March 25 April 28 April 2 May 12 May 18 May 23 May 11 June 14/15 June 23 June 29 June 1 July

Confirmation Induction Mass Confirmation classes begin Blessing of Piano Fifth Form retreat – Smythe to Ammerdown Candlemas Ash Wednesday – arrival of Fr Martin Stations of the Cross begin Netball Mass Lent Nightfever Start of House reconciliation Collection of 42 inch candle from Charles Farris.

Open Day & Flame Congress Whole School retreat St Gregory the Great Communities gathering St Benedict – celebrated with the Abbot.

Second Form pilgrimage to Lamyatt Mozart Requiem St Mark – blessing of pencils and prayer cards Blessing of those going on Ten Tors House blessings begin Confirmation Mass Ascension in peace week Communities BBQ Trip to Oxford – Corpus Christi procession Lower Sixth Form retreats First Form retreat Saints Peter and Paul Prize Day – St Oliver Plunkett

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Chaplain’s Diary MICHAELMAS TERM Wednesday 31st August The Chaplaincy team reunite after the long summer vacation for a retreat morning with Dom Martin McGee OSB of Worth Abbey. Based in the Abbey visitor centre, all reflect prayerfully on Jesus’ ministry of love, of humble service and our call to prayer.

Later, we welcome the new members of staff for a tour of the Abbey Church.

community, conduits for a truly Benedictine rain to refresh and inspire our School community, as the monks of St Gregory’s did for centuries. The Head continues the tradition of presenting the Rule of St Benedict to all new members of staff.

Wednesday 7th September The chaplaincy fayre takes place in the busy thoroughfare of the main hall. All are invited to take part in the many opportunities for prayer, building communion and service.

Thursday 1st September At teatime, Fr Michael meets with the St Luke’s The start-of-term INSET days arrive. Fr Michael Community for the first time. A representative as priest chaplain speaks first about Benedictine from each House has been chosen to assist in balance and Ora et Labora, recalling Fr James Hood’s making the arrangements for the liturgy. They one-word Prize Day exhortation: pray! are led by Head of Chaplaincy Anna Hayhurst, and Heads of Sacristy Maya Strauss and Pedro Sunday 4th September Puente. They will enable members of their Houses Our new pupils arrive for a packed day of to develop ministries of reading and serving induction. In the evening, they gather in the Abbey throughout the School year.

Church for a service of light. They are blessed with holy water in preparation for the year ahead. Led Thursday 8th September – Our Lady’s Birthday

by Heads of Houses, each House group concludes During the afternoon, we hear that Her Majesty the their prayer time in one of several chapels to the Queen is ailing. Then, during supper the sad news east of the Abbey Church. comes thorough of her death. Large numbers of the School community visit the Old Chapel in the evening to pray for her soul, lighting candles and leaving written messages of condolence.

Monday 5th September All gather in the Abbey Church for a Mass of the Holy Spirit to begin the academic year. Whilst Somerset Septembers are the second rainiest month of the year, rain is a symbol of the Holy Spirit. We’re blessed here with the St Scholastica

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Friday 9th September In the morning, prayers are said in Houses for the late Queen. The School community gathers for a Solemn Requiem Mass in the Abbey Church. The Church is full, with many from the local community joining us. We pray that our beloved late Sovereign will behold the Lord with the prophet Isaiah: See, this is our God in whom we hoped for salvation; the Lord is the one in whom we hoped. We exalt and we rejoice that he has saved us.

The service is concluded with the poignant tones of the Last Post from the gallery chapels by Paweł (Lower Sixth Smythe), in his first week at Downside.

Saturday 10th September This evening, seven pupils made their way to Clifton Cathedral to venerate the relics of St Bernadette of Lourdes during their nationwide tour.

“After meeting in the quad at 5pm, we set off on our pilgrimage in a minibus. Our first stop was not too long into the journey, at Whitstone’s Traditional Fish & Chips, where we ate the typical British food; and they were delicious. After our short break, we set off again satiated. On the way, we prayed the Litany of Loreto.

We arrived just in time, because shortly after we entered Clifton Cathedral, it was made possible for visitors to venerate the holy relic and say a short prayer in front of it. Afterwards, everyone present went on a procession of lights through the church.

Meanwhile, the rosary was prayed in various

languages and the well-known Ave, ave, ave Maria was sung between the mysteries, raising the candles to heaven at the refrain.

Last summer I was in Lourdes, also for the procession of lights, and I must say that the procession here was at least as beautiful and appealing.

After the procession through the Cathedral, most of the visitors, worshippers and helpers left “the event”. But we stayed to participate in the evening prayer and the last rosary of the day. It was also possible for us to go to confession throughout the evening. On the way back we also spent time in prayer, but now with the Litany of St. Bernadette, which was of course very fitting.

In my opinion, it was a very beautiful experience and a unique experience. The feeling of cohesion of a community, of Catholic Christians, can only be conveyed at such events and gatherings. And I am proud to be part of such a big family.

With my closing words, I would like to thank our teachers on behalf of all participants who made this unique, fulfilling experience possible. The beautiful sense of community among members of the Catholic family is strongly conveyed at such events.”

Constantin Lower Sixth Form

Wednesday 14th September The Third Form retreat. The year group gathers for Mass in the Old Chapel on the Feast of the Holy Cross. The Head presents each pupil with the Rule of St Benedict.

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Friday 16th September Dom John George is ordained to the priesthood at Buckfast Abbey. A contingent from Downside School travels down for the Ordination Mass, including the new Heads of School and members of the Chaplaincy Team. We are truly welcomed, receiving the blessing of the new priest, and share in a sumptuous buffet lunch. Abbot Nicholas ensures we reach the front of the buffet line to help us return for evening appointments back at School.

Wednesday 21st September It is the turn of Fourth Form to enjoy a retreat day.

We meet first in the Abbey Church for Mass on the Feast of St Matthew the Evangelist. Our House patrons were called by Jesus, and all knew their weaknesses, just like St Matthew the tax collector.

St Ambrose Barlow, Abbot Philip de Caverel, Infanta Isabella Clara Eugenia, St John Roberts, Sir Edward Smythe – each in their own way became a disciple.

What would they say about their first encounter with Jesus? The saints together form a unity in the work of service, building up the body of Christ.

Monday 19th September The Main Hall becomes a picnic assembly The day of the late Queen Elizabeth’s State Funeral. production line with Paul Andrewartha at the helm In the morning, those present in School gather (our Lay Chaplain). Each House group travels away for a short prayer service in the Abbey Church. Rev. independently for time to reflect and pray. The John Storey offers a reflection on Matthew 26:6-13 Priest Chaplain goes with Caverel pupils to the (in which Jesus says of the woman who anoints his autumnal beauty of Stourhead, where community feet with the alabaster jar of costly ointment that is formed guided by their tutor, Neill Barrett. The ‘she has performed a good service for me.’) pupils contemplate what it means to be a strong “The twenty-one year old Princess Elizabeth and loving Fourth Form Caverel Community, called on Her father the King’s people not just following the example of the Patron of the House, to pray for Her in Her own life of service, but to Abbot Philip de Caverel, guided by the Gospel and join with Her in that service, in the great work the Rule of St Benedict. of rebuilding the nation and the world in the aftermath of the Second War. What a tribute it Monday 26th September would be to the late Queen Elizabeth, our servant The first of the termly House Masses gets Queen – what service it would be to our God, underway in the Old Chapel, with an impressive the King that She served for Her whole life – if we, musical offering prepared by Smythe House. The now Her son the King’s people were – from this Smythe quintet lead chant, polyphony and hymnody time of national sorrow – to come together in that during the thirty-minute celebration of Mass. spirit of service – to work together in the great task of rebuilding the nation and the world in the Monday 3rd October/Tuesday 4th October aftermath of Covid, of economic shock, of war in In these days we are blessed to be joined by Fr Europe once again.

Toby Lees OP who leads two Upper Sixth Form May the Lord strengthen us to pour out our retreats on the theme of Christian courage. whole selves in His service, after the example of We learned that a heroic act may come about Her late Majesty. May it one day be said of us that when first you have developed a habit of being we ‘have performed a good service’. And let us courageous. remember Queen Elizabeth with love and affection for the deeds that she did and the joy that she gave. Sunday 9th October Amen.”

Today is the Solemnity of SS John Roberts and Ambrose Barlow.

Whilst the hymn-singing of the previous week’s

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House Music evening was competitive, the heavenly Monday 7th November choirs are united in song. Fr Michael reflected on House reconciliation evenings begin with Roberts. the heavenly Te Deum thus: In the next few weeks, each senior House in turn will visit the Old Chapel to respond to the gospel “Downside Hymn number 97 is “Holy God, we by reflecting on our need for repentance and Praise thy Name”. The words describe St John’s forgiveness. Afterwards, pupils take the opportunity vision of heaven written in the Book of Revelation. to go to confession with the Chaplain in their John sees and hears a heavenly choir praising God. Houses.

The choir is made up of all in heaven; the angel choirs, the cherubim and seraphim, the prophets Thursday 10th November swelling the loud refrain and the white-robed Huge numbers of pupils descend on the Weld for martyrs including our Downside Saints John a Celebration of Lectio Divina. Organised by the St Roberts and Ambrose Barlow all knowing the Scholastica Community, the evening brings together words off by heart; one united household of God pupils of all ages to reflect on the Word of God with all its members joining in; singing with sweet in an engaging and convivial atmosphere. All are accord; holy, holy, holy Lord.” uplifted by light as the evenings draw in.

Tuesday 11th October Members of the School community gather at the daily Old Chapel Mass to pray for Rachel Bevan who died at the weekend. The staff remember a beloved colleague. Older pupils remember her kindness and care in both girls’ Houses; choristers are thankful for the patient and expert help she gave as a singing teacher. May she rest in peace.

Friday 11th November The whole School gathers at the war memorial on Armistice Day. We commemorate all Old Gregorians who fell in action. This year, we particularly remember 23 men who lost their lives on land between 1939-1942 in World War II. Pictured on the Order of Service is Dom Gervase Hobson Matthews, a monk of Downside and Ealing, who served as a military chaplain, Tuesday 1st November offering Mass near the front line; giving the last rites Following half term, the School returns for the to dying soldiers; burying month to the Holy Souls. At Mass for the Solemnity the dead. He is believed of All Saints, the strains of Victoria’s Missa O quam to be the first Catholic gloriosum beautify the liturgy. military Chaplain killed This feast reminds us of our eternal destiny, in the second world war, where we will dwell, as Saint Thomas Aquinas aged 36 at the time of wrote, in true and perfect light, total fulfilment, the Dunkirk evacuation everlasting joy and gladness without end. in 1940. His last recorded words written Wednesday 2nd November in his diary were ‘a priest This evening on All Souls’ Day, pupils gather in the has certainly to stay.’

Abbey Church for an evening service to remember all our deceased relatives and friends. Afterwards, Sunday 13th November many pupils take the opportunity to light a candle At Remembrance Sunday Mass (on a gloriously in memory of their loved ones. sunny autumnal weekend), our attention is drawn to those who gave their lives in war. Later today, the evening glow of sunset will appear through

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the west windows of the Abbey Church, directly above the inscriptions carrying the names of so many fallen Old Gregorians. A poignant Sunday sunset today. At the going down of the sun, and in the morning – we will remember them.

In the afternoon, the Downside CCF band maintain the tradition of leading the parade for Remembrance through Bath. The Chaplain joins the march among the trumpet section.

The Blessed Sacrament is solemnly transferred to the heart of the School accompanied by candles and bells. Between 6 – 7 pm many pupils spend a while in prayer and light a candle as Christmas approaches.

Thursday 8th December The whole School gathers in the Abbey Church for our annual Mass in honour of Our Lady, celebrating her Immaculate Conception.

Wednesday 23rd November Pupils in the First, Second and Third Forms gather in the Old Chapel for their reconciliation service, with the assistance of clergy from the local deanery.

Friday 25th November As Advent Sunday approaches, artist-in-residence Lydia Cotterell arranges a basilica-sized Advent wreath for the Abbey Church. Lydia also kindly puts in place a crib set in the Main Hall.

Monday 12th December The London Carol Service. Old Gregorians gather at St Patrick’s Soho, where the Mixed Chamber Choir prepare an exquisitely seasonal programme.

The Chaplain is accompanied by the Heads of Sacristy Pedro and Maya, who serve for Exposition and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament.

Sunday 4th December Advent Night Fever – adoration of the blessed sacrament – moves location to the Gasquet Hall.

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Thursday 15th December Despite the wintry temperatures, the Abbey Church is full as the extended School community gathers for the Advent Carol Service. A fitting way to end a busy term.

Advent truly places Christ at the centre, promising bright light to the people that walked in darkness. During the latter part of Advent, the Church looks forward with the prophet Isaiah to the birth of Christ. At Our Lady’s Annunciation, the dawning brightness of the Redeemer of the earth was made manifest by the message of an

angel. Isaiah foretold God’s plan; the maiden is with child and will give birth to a son whom she will call Immanuel, God-with-us.

The prophet Micah gave God’s word that the saviour would be born to the least of the clans of Judah, in Bethlehem. And so, it came to pass. In the last days of advent our attention turns to Mary, mother of the redeemer who gave birth to Jesus the prince of peace.

Pope St Gregory the Great tells us in a Christmas sermon that Bethlehem means ‘house of bread’ – the birthplace of him who said: I am the living bread, which came down from heaven.

Gregory explains that Jesus is seen in a manger after His birth, so that His flesh, like pure wheat, may draw all the faithful to himself. Concluding tonight’s service with Benediction, we will kneel before the great mystery and wonderful sacrament of Christ’s real presence. O come, let us adore him, Christ the Lord.

LENT TERM Friday 6th January Today is The Epiphany of the Lord – and a holy day of obligation. The staff INSET begins with Mass. Staff members perform ministries of reading, music and altar serving. Like the magi, members of the senior leadership team present the offertory gifts. At the beginning of term, we offer our gold, frankincense and myrrh to the Lord in His service.

Monday 9th January At the whole School Mass for the start of term, we pray for Pope Benedict XVI RIP. He died on New Year’s Eve, on the eve of January’s month of the Most Holy Name of Jesus. His last words, in the pain of his last hours were Jesus, I love you.

Tuesday 10th January Catechesis for sacramental preparation begins.

Pupils preparing for First Holy Communion or Confirmation this summer begin weekly classes in year groups. An induction Mass is held in the Old Chapel at the start of the process, during

which candidates renew the baptismal promises previously made on their behalf.

Tuesday 17th January As the lunchtime Cloister Concert is transferred to the Old Chapel, we take the opportunity to bless one of the dozen new pianos kindly donated to the School. We pray that it will resound to the glory of God and raise our hearts to Him. The piano will be used at all this term’s House Masses by the many gifted musicians among the pupil body.

Tuesday 24th January/Wednesday 25th January All members of the Fifth Form travel to various places for their retreat, following their mock examinations. Fr Michael travels with Smythe to Ammerdown, for an overnight stay reflecting on mission. The food offer there is popular; and the need to surrender mobile phones is received with surprising positivity among the boys – although time keeping and setting alarms are made more difficult.

Thursday 2nd February Today is Candlemas and at 8:30pm all pupils gather in the Abbey Church for a candlelit service.

As members of the Upper Sixth process around the Abbey Church, we are reminded of The Presentation of the Lord in the Temple. We hear strains of the traditional Lumen ad revelationem gentium chant.

Wednesday 22nd February Ash Wednesday today. The School community gathers late morning in the Abbey Church for Mass, to begin the holy and joyful season of Lent.

Many visitors and members of the local parish are present, and Abbot Nicholas Wetz joins us, who assists with the imposition of ashes.

Meanwhile, the haunting sounds of Allegri’s setting of Psalm 50 are sung by the Mixed Chamber Choir. A quartet of voices singing from a gallery chapel provide a sublime contrast to the simple chant of other voices in St Oliver’s chapel.

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Friday 24th February At 9:10pm on each Friday of Lent, the five senior School Houses take their turn to pray the Stations of the Cross in the Abbey Church. The prayers start at the far west end, beneath the inscriptions of the war dead. There we reflect on the first station; Jesus is sentenced to death. Then facing east, we move as if to Jerusalem, and the cross of Jesus is taken up at the altar steps. In St Benedict’s chapel, further east, we recall Jesus’ first fall, and in the Lady Chapel the mourning mother meets her son, close to Jesus to the last.

The stations continue with visits to some of the twenty altars. At the twelfth station, participants kneel behind the high altar for Jesus’ death on the cross. Finally, in St Oliver’s chapel (the original high altar of this church), we recall the burial of Jesus, laid in the tomb. Candles are lit, and quiet prayers offered up before departing in peace.

Saturday 25th February Netball players attend a late evening vigil Mass in the Old Chapel, as they will be travelling to a tournament tomorrow. On subsequent Saturdays, it will be the turn of the Rugby Seven.

Sunday 26th February Lent Night fever takes place once again in The Gasquet Hall. During the Holy Hour, an atmospheric sunset forms the backdrop for Eucharistic Adoration.

Wednesday 1st March St David’s day and the month of St Joseph.

Reconciliation evenings begin for senior Houses.

Thursday 2nd March A drive to Charles Farris, a local supplier of liturgical consumables, to collect a 42-inch plain candle for Easter. Every year, an Art Scholar paints the paschal candle with a design evoking the life of Easter. Hints are made to the artist for the inclusion of references to the coronation year, and the centenary of Smythe House.

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Saturday 4th March Some of the chaplaincy team lead a group from the Fourth Form to FLAME at Wembley arena (more details elsewhere in this issue). The remainder of the team remain at Downside, holding the fort, for Open Day. Saturday 11th March The Whole School Retreat. All pupils and staff are invited to reflect on how we grow as a School community. Tutor groups share time in Lectio Divina together. Later, School council members compile the ideas of their year groups and form a simple sentence to present to the whole School at Hymn Practice before lunch.

Monday 13th March The (transferred) Patronal Solemnity of St Gregory the Great. Among the words of our School song are; ‘let Gregory’s light cast its brightness and peace illumine his children… we sons and daughters must

love the glory of our Father’s house, and its walls fitted together with living stones.’

Being Pope was not a career option for Gregory, he did not choose it, he was chosen. His life of service was more than a day job, putting on his professional hat in the morning, and taking it off at night. The heavy three-crowned tiara worn on the papal head was really a thorny trio that rewarded the responsible wearer with blood, sweat and tears.

Thursday 16th March The Communities of St Teresa, St Luke and St John gather in The Gasquet Hall for the termly communities gathering. The Chaplains and community members get into role to act out the life of St Benedict, as narrated by St Gregory. Fr Michael constructs a pontifical mitre to help get into character, using internet-sourced templates and a laminator.

who freely savest the redeemed, save me, O fount of goodness).

SUMMER TERM Monday 24th April At the staff INSET, the Priest Chaplain tells of his brief stay at Southgate House with our monks.

The experience was one of sharing in the Divine Office, celebrating Mass and eating meals with the community. Then a bracing uphill walk with Fr James Hood to catch up and benefit from his wisdom and experience of chaplaincy and all things Downside.

Tuesday 25th April Feast of St Mark the Evangelist and the blessing of pencils. Our first Mass of term this morning and sprinkling with Easter water, as Vidi Aquam is chanted.

Tuesday 21st March The Passing of St Benedict. Abbot Nicholas Wetz leads a Pontifical Mass, in the presence of the Petre Society and the whole School.

Saturday 25th March It is announced that the Manquehue community will be travelling to Chile in July to take part in a process of community renewal for the remainder of 2023 and beyond. We believe that the Holy The Paschal Candle has long since been in place, Spirit is very much at work in this new phase, so let since the Easter Vigil. It is painted this year by art us be united in prayer and openness to the Lord. scholar Maya (Lower Sixth Isabella). The beautiful design includes a crown above the ‘Downside’ cross.

Tuesday 28th March Fr Leo Maidlow Davis notes that the bees are In the final week of term, the Second Form retreat painted in Smythe colours, a nod to the centenary takes place at Lamyatt village hall.

Thursday 30th March The term concludes with Mozart’s Requiem in the Abbey Church, staged at the west end of the basilica. The newly formed Downside Choral Society are accompanied by the Downside Festival Orchestra. Passiontide is an ideal time to hear Rex tremendae majestatis. (King of awesome majesty,

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year of the House. Butterflies are a representation of our new life in the Risen Christ.

Exam candidates are blessed at Mass, and a small gift is given to each one afterwards: a pencil and a prayer card – but no ordinary pencil. They receive a limited-edition silver Downside pencil, bearing the words Ora et Labora. St Benedict wished his monks to keep a balance in life. All work and no pray (or vice versa) would be an unbalanced way of life for a son or daughter of St Benedict.

Friday 28th April Twelve members of the Fourth Form are blessed in advance of the Ten Tors Challenge over Dartmoor this weekend. We pray the Ten Tors prayer: ‘O God, who has made the earth of great beauty and instilled in man a spirit for adventure, we thank you for the beauty of nature for the courage and vigour of youth for companionship and for the opportunity to enjoy these gifts Go, we pray, with all who are setting out on this great venture among the tors of a unique and ancient moorland.

Grant that, by meeting each challenge and difficulty with honest endeavour and unselfish courage they may find a spirit of determination and true comradeship that will benefit themselves and those about them both now and in the future. Amen.’

Tuesday 2nd May During Easter time, each of the six Houses is blessed. The House gathers for the blessing of water and rooms are sprinkled, with the possibility of blessing devotional items (or in some cases, sports kit and revision stationery.)

Friday 12th May Bishop Declan Lang of Clifton visits the Abbey Church for the annual Confirmation Mass. Twentyeight candidates receive the Sacrament surrounded by friends, family and members of the School community. They had been preparing themselves

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for months to experience their own mini-Pentecost and to receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

Perhaps the most moving moment was when Bishop Declan moved into the congregation to lay hands on each candidate, with the Schola Cantorum leading the congregation to sing Christopher Walker’s Veni Sancte Spiritus – Come Holy Spirit.

In his homily, standing before the altar and speaking directly to the candidates, The Bishop likened confirmation to the consecration and call to service of King Charles III the Saturday before.

Monday 15th May Earlier this term, Rako (Third Form) of Caverel, one of our pupils from Japan, had the idea of creating a Senzaburu – one thousand origami cranes – to pray for peace in Ukraine. Together with Dr Jesus Tapia, Rako delivers a hymn practice about the tradition, and invokes Our Lady’s intercession under her title as Queen of Peace, in the month of May. Dubbed ‘Peace Week,’ all are encouraged to fold a crane or two, and many do – including the Head. During lunchtime registration, the Memorare is prayed.

The target of 1000 cranes is easily smashed, with Caverel folding the most, followed by Isabella and Roberts. Our Lady Queen of Peace – pray for Ukraine; pray for us.

Thursday 18th May The Ascension of the Lord. The power of the Ascended Jesus is celebrated in the second reading

at Mass with the whole School, He is far above every Sovereignty, Authority, Power, or Domination, now and in the times to come. While war is raging in Europe, we know that His victory is won.

Saturday 20th May Today we pray for and remember the nine boys and a pilot who died on the afternoon of Saturday 15th May 1943 at a cricket match here at Downside School. On this eightieth anniversary, a cherry tree is planted in their memory. It is aligned with the graves of the ten dead adjacent to the monastic cemetery. The graves are attended by CCF members. Prayers of blessing are said, and the Schola Cantorum sing: Requiem aeternam dona eis Domine, et lux perpetua luceat eis. A.E.Housman’s poem – The Loveliest of Trees – is recited. We conclude by singing Thine be the Glory as the fledging tree points to life beyond the grave.

Further prayers follow at the Pavilion, with by a cricket match to enjoy.

Tuesday 23rd May The origami cranes are collected and threaded.

Well over a 1000 is a supe result. They are displayed in the Old Chapel next to the statue of Our Lady.

The Communities gather at the Pavilion for games, Lectio and a barbecue. Speeches are given by members of the communities who will be leaving us. The outgoing chaplaincy and sacristy prefects receive a crucifix purchased in Bethlehem and blessed in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.

Sunday 11th June Corpus Christi Sunday and a visit to Oxford for the annual Blessed Sacrament procession.

“On the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, a School delegation went to Oxford to join the more than seven-centuryold tradition of Catholics processing through the streets to celebrate their faith in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist. Starting at the beautiful neo-gothic Oxford Oratory Church, we slowly processed to the Blackfriars Priory – a Dominican church and home to an Oxford private hall. After hearing a sermon, the procession continued through the city centre passing many historical sites, including Corpus Christi College and Carfax Tower. All the noteworthy monuments alongside the route were pointed out by Mr McNamara, who, as an Oxford graduate, additionally enriched our knowledge with interesting anecdotes and provided us with a great tour of the city centre.

When accompanied by the singing of the faithful, the procession reached the University’s Catholic Chaplaincy, the Benediction – another vital moment of the event took place. After a fabulous day of celebrating and representing the School, we went for ice cream to cool off, as a less formal part of the event. The day was full of experiences and certainly lifted the spirits, and the opportunity

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to join the tradition of celebrating Corpus Christi in such a historically significant place is an unforgettable occasion.”

Friday 23rd June The First Form visit Witham Friary for a day of retreat. Pascual Soza Ovalle of the Manquehue community takes a lead, assisted by Owain Joszko Sucha Dailey (R21). Owain has spent the month of June sharing in the life and mission of the St Scholastica (Manquehue) community. He has offered leadership both for the First Form retreat and sessions connected to Food Week, a programme organised for the visit of Mexican pupils from the Pilar School.

Owain has assisted with Lectio Divina and tutoria; his positive and reflective presence around the School has been much appreciated.

Thursday 29th June Saints Peter and Paul. The pupils sing a roof-raising rendition of Cardinal Wiseman’s Full in the Panting Heart of Rome (God Save Our Pope!) at the conclusion of Mass.

Wednesday 14th June/Thursday 15th June The Lower Sixth visit St James’ Priory for their retreat, seeing the essential work happening among the poorest, and with those experiencing addition or domestic violence.

Saturday 1st July Feast of St Oliver Plunkett and Prize Day. The Abbey Church sanctuary is bedecked with flowers.

We conclude the School year in prayer, and celebrate the last martyr of the reformation on his feast day. On the last day of a very full year, we reflect on the words of St Paul: All the runners at the stadium are trying to win, but only one of them gets the prize. You must run in the same way, meaning to win. All the fighters at the games go into strict training; they do this just to win a wreath that will wither away, but we do it for a wreath that will never wither.

1 Cor 9:24-25 Fr Michael Patey School Priest Chaplain

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St Scholastica Community St Scholastica is a community from the Manquehue Apostolic Movement established at Downside in 2015. Manquehue is a lay Benedictine communitybased in Chile. Its life springs from Lectio Divina the prayerful reading of Scriptures - and friendship.

Manquehue runs three schools in Santiago with a total of 4500 pupils and a Formation Centre for young people in Patagonia. Manquehue and the monasteries of the English Benedictine Congregation enjoy a long-standing friendship.

St Scholastica works at Downside School as part of the Chaplaincy team, developing a program of tutoría and Lectio Divina among the pupils. Tutoría is a way of helping older pupils engage pastorally with younger pupils, forming friendships and sharing with them their own experience of prayer and service. Beyond Downside, St Scholastica is at the heart of The Weave of Manquehue Prayer, a network of friends who seek to help one another to pray and to share with many the Good News of the Gospel.

The Weave was started among old pupils from Downside, Ampleforth, and Worth and today

connects people and Lectio Groups across the UK. Cristóbal Valdés, Rodrigo Vidal and Vicente Tagle were the permanent members of St Scholastica during this academic year. Martín Rosellot joined for January and February. Pascual Soza came from January to July. It was a joy to see the flow of young Chileans restart again after the pandemic. Owain Daley (R21) was also part of St Scholastica during June, bringing fresh enthusiasm during a very busy end of the academic year. The company of these young people is essential to St Scholastica’s life and mission.

Lectio Divina at Downside School has continued strong, led by pupils at St John’s Community. St Scholastica also contributes to other Chaplaincy activities and as part of School life in general. The first St John’s Retreat provided a strong start for lectio in the new academic year. Lectio Celebration in November gathered 120 pupils in a prayerful and festive atmosphere of friendship. Singing together at Christmas Dinner will stay vividly in our memories. The Communities Barbeque was marked by moving testimonies of the experience

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of Christ at Downside School by the Upper Sixth Leavers. During Lent Term, the Light in Lent Podcast series offered many a deep moment for reflection.

The year closed with The Well of Life, a Lectio Divina Workshop for three Days in June.

The Weave of Manquehue Prayer had its first post-pandemic retreat at Buckfast in September.

Early in February the Weave joined the Lay Community of St Benedict for a Liturgy of the Hours Workshop in Birmingham. The celebration of the Easter Triduum as part of St Benedict’s Parish was memorable. The Weave has also worked alongside our Diocese of Clifton in the preparations for World Youth Day 2023 in Lisbon. Hospitality at St Scholastica is an ever-growing ministry, offering many young people from across the UK a time of

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prayer and friendship at Downside.

The presence of St Scholastica in the UK also presents a unique opportunity for the development of the existing Consociation between Manquehue and the monasteries of the English Benedictine Congregation. This year St Scholastica visited St Gregory’s at Buckfast, Ampleforth, Worth, Douai and Stanbrook, some of them more than once.

Particularly significant was to share with the Community of St Gregory’s their patronal feast with a special meal at Buckfast.

Cristóbal, Rodrigo and Vicente are flying back to Chile in July to take part in a process of community renewal. This process will keep them away from the UK during the Michaelmas Term.

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SOCIETIES

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Wallingford Society The Wallingford society has been treated to see a large selection of inspirational lectures through the year, looking at the hidden science of weather, asking such questions as “can fish count?”, answering with examples of chimpanzees, birds, fish and even bees being able to interpret numbers, and explaining the design disaster that is the human body. In addition to these, we explored the deep seas, looking at the varied life around hydrothermal vents and Ocean worlds, where we learnt some remarkable facts about the formation of the oceans of Europa.

The chemistry of life and death, and science of exploding stars gave an insight to how scientists are using research to push the boundaries of our understanding.

There was the opportunity to link these to the cross curricular, academic theme weeks when we were covering the broad theme of connections, narrowing down to studying the brain which we sandwiched between two lectures, one on a brief history of the brain and the other, exploring the complex minds of Neanderthals.

We also joined several external science initiatives such as Mars week, culminating in Mars Day 2023 with talks from NASA and epic planetary debate battling between initially Mars and Europa and then Mars and Jupiter and the “Protect our planet day” where we had a talk from the captain of the RSS Sir David Attenborough, one of the world’s leading research vessels and Boaty McBoatface, perhaps the most famous

underwater vehicle. These not only raised some topical issues, as well as some fascinating science, they both gave an insight to the vast array of careers on offer through studying science and technology.

This year we have seen an introduction to a weekly Anatomy club, where pupils have focussed on an organ system each week, considering particular conditions and looking at different case studies and possible treatments, this was complemented by a number of Lower Sixth pupils attending a Medics and Veterinary science conference in March.

Inter-House Debating Diary and Results: 30/09/2022 This House declares that cancel culture is a threat to our society Isabella v Smythe 24-19 7/10/2022 This House would be gender critical Caverel v Barlow 21-10 4/11/2022 This House believes that net zero must wait Isabella v Caverel 24-22

Mr Paul Rigby Head of Teaching, Learning 11/11/2022 and Innovation Head of This House declares that equity, Science diversity and inclusion are not absolute values Abingdon Society Roberts v Barlow The Abingdon Debating Society 22-23 has been around for at least 150 years, for there is written evidence 18/11/2022 that it was responsible for setting This House believes Britain should not up the Raven magazine itself, have a nuclear stockpile the first issue of which was in Roberts v Smythe 1884. The Abingdon Inter House 22-20 Competition once stretched across two of the School terms, with 2/12/2022 the final being held in the first This House believes freedom of religion week of the Summer Term. In the is the most important Lent Term many of the members kind of freedom of the Abingdon took part with Barlow v Isabella great success in the return of the 24-22 Mock Trial competition in person, winning the regional heat at 20/01/2 Southampton Crown Court. Two This House believes reproductive rights members, Edith Jenkins and Bea are not true human rights Garrett also very bravely took part Isabella v Roberts in the Catenian Public Speaking 23-22 Competition in Bristol in the Lent Term.

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speech argued that sex should not be conflated with gender and did draw on a good deal of the gender-critical feminist ideas with Commentary: lots of examples. Barlow had not The debates commenced with two prepared sufficiently to argue controversial propositions, one well, and although they had plenty decrying cancel culture and the of self-confidence their lack of 17/03/23 other proposing that this House preparation and resort to what This House believes God is a father would be gender-critical, a view nearly amounted to abuse meant Caverel v Roberts that if expressed can apparently that the previous year’s winners 23-23 lose you a bank account at the had already lost the trophy at the Yorkshire Building Society as well end of the second heat.

24/03/23 Isabella and Caverel then went This House would always trust the state as your job in a School if you are an Anglican vicar. In the first, head-to-head over the question more than the market Coco Mellotte, in what was her of net-zero. Isabella put forward Smythe v Barlow debut, delivered a well-expressed, a well-argued case that we faced (This did not take place) well-argued and carefully prepared more imminent threats, and the account in favour of liberal free effect on the poor would not be Final: Between Caverel, speech suggesting the novelty of good. Caverel put forward the Isabella and Roberts cancel culture and the dangers risks of climate change but needed This House believes that the greatest of shutting down even moderate more style in delivery and did not threat toWestern civilisation is a) and common-sense views. Alec answer points of information so Population collapse b) Artificial de Pelet then tried to play down well. Isabella won this debate, in Intelligence c) Human nature what some thought might be a dry Caverel (Population collapse- its dangers. Edith Jenkins then took up the baton on behalf of run for a possible final.

Oliwia Malek and Maya The debate on equity, diversity Strauss) won this debate and Isabella and the many voices of a debate as away of holding people and inclusion showed some the Abingdon Cup to account, with the idea that no confusion over the notion of List of House Debaters: equity as well as some difficulty in Barlow: Aristo Cham, Justin Wu, one has a monopoly on offence.

With his unfailingly polite manner recognizing any absolute values, Jude Bennett, Ivan Boas-Syed, Charlie Maggs tried to push the although Barlow with Aristo Cham Johnny Rowell argument for Smythe but was and Justin Wu did just get the Caverel: Olivia Malek, Maya too willing to concede every better of Constantin Eisenkopf and Strauss, Ruby Morling-Ritchie, point of information to Isabella, Caspar Shaw, with Roberts arguing Anna Hayhurst, Roksana who simply and effectively took dogmatically that there were no Pieronkiewicz absolute values at all and Barlow Isabella: Cosima Melllotte, Edith advantage of his pleasantness to win the debate with an effective finally accurately quoting Kant’s Jenkins, Bea Garrett, Jessie von closing speech also. universalizability principle in the der Schulenburg, Lily-Rose Hall, The second debate pitted the closing speech.

Maria Diamond, Lara MacMillan, eventual winners Caverel against Smythe introduced two new Awele Onunkwo a last-minute Barlow team of debaters, Pawel Korczagin and Roberts: Caspar Shaw, Rupert Jude Bennett and Ivan Boas-Syed. Boris Priscott for the debate on Sharifi, Constantin Eisenkopf, A clinical cool style from Ruby whether a nuclear stockpile was Bryn Jennings, Johnny MorleyMorling-Ritchie in the opening a good thing. Although too much Cooper, Ormond Yeung 10/03/23 This House declares that women footballers should be paid the same as men Smythe v Caverel 22-23

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Smythe: Ambrose Mui, Charlie Maggs, Alec De Pelet, Boris Priscott, Pawel Korczagin

of this debate revolved around the question of nuclear war, Caspar Shaw showed his mettle with constant points of information as well as answering these well.

Unfortunately, Boris gave a speech that consisted largely of rhetorical questions with very little positive information. Neither side really saw the key moral problem of whether if it is wrong to commit genocide with nuclear weapons it is equally wrong to threaten this. The Russia -Ukraine conflict hovered in the background.

The sixth debate also showed some confusion, with Isabella on these occasions arguing for a freedom of identity as opposed to freedom of belief, which is what Barlow suggested freedom of religion really meant. Rooting their argument in Article 18 of the charter of human rights proved however to be more substantial a basis than a free-floating freedom of identity. Aristo Cham once again showed how incisive he can be in attacking this.

The debate concerning reproductive rights introduced the clear thoughts of Awele Onunkwo along with the repartee of Edith Jenkins, and Isabella were able to suggest successfully that both the right to life and the right to a family were being undermined by so-called reproductive rights, and that the new notion of reproductive rights were not universal. Roberts tried unsuccessfully to maintain that bodily autonomy was a human right and that a foetus was not a human being.

Bryn Jennings for Smythe arguing for equal pay for women footballers showed a good delivery style but denied six points of information, rather too many for the judges. Maya Strauss on the other hand had some very good statistics and examples to suggest that revenue should follow interest, and people were just more interested in male football: popularity not gender is the key.

Caverel did not however capitalise completely on the success of the women’s Euros triumph- surely the joy of this was partly due to the lack of corruption by money in the women’s game?

In what proved to be the final heat about God as a father, Caverel represented by Oliwia Malek and Roksana Pieronkiewicz, proposed that religion was a cultural product and therefore of course God has masculine qualities as the notion of God is always a product of its time. This perhaps missed the point of what is really a debate about God in Christianity and tried to argue too much. Roberts did rely more on Scripture and use of metaphor and analogy but failed in convincingly pursuing this line to suggest clearly that God was not a father like human fathers but Father.

In the final itself no team was keen to take on the topic of population collapse, and Caverel had to argue for this by default; ironically however, they proved to have the most compelling arguments, with many statistics about population numbers and ageing in Western nations

that appeared overwhelmingly convincing. Ultimately Maya Strauss was also able to effectively and comprehensively sum up and demolish the opposing team’s views, in what proved to be the clinching final speech that was an exemplar of thinking on your feet and ordered structure at the same time. By choosing the topic of human nature Isabella felt compelled to argue for less people in a time of climate change, which was not compelling enough to outweigh the hard facts put forward by Caverel, and although Caspar for Roberts answered points of information confidently, he missed the problem of work that AI might well create.

I would again like to thank those colleagues Dr Tapia, and Ms Iglesias who have helped judge the debates. Thanks must go to Ambrose Mui, Aristo Cham and Bea Garrett for being the Chairs this year, each with their own style. The standard was again very high with each House fielding teams and Isabella really expanding their team base and giving lots of opportunities to several pupils.

No doubt Caverel will feel that at last all their efforts have been rewarded.

Hugh Walters Head of Theology and Teacher of History Knowles Society The Knowles Society is named after Dom David Knowles (18961974) who was both a Downside monk and Regius Professor of

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Modern History at Cambridge.

‘A great historian and a master of prose, and a professor and teacher of wide influence. He was also an austere and solitary monk...a very remarkable character who made a deep impression.’ The Society has as its central purpose the promotion of ordered discussion by members of the Lower Sixth Form, based on the lines of a tutorial or supervision at Oxford or Cambridge and was founded in 2001 by the current Head of Theology and the then Head of Classics. Membership is by invitation or request.

The Society has always had two members of the academic staff in attendance to offer their ideas and allow pupils to see that adults can also disagree in a civilised manner through dialogue. The Society is currently an academic discussion group for Lower Sixth Formers primarily, which again this year met weekly during much of the Lent and Summer Term on a Wednesday evening between 6.30 and 7.30pm to discuss various topics of interest.

Dom Iltyd Trethowan, who ran his own similar group many years ago, regarded 14 as the absolute maximum for any discussion group and this year numbers were limited to this number of invitees.

A range of topics and resources were discussed with the pupils and resources were provided by Mr Walters and Mrs Alcantara, who again combined the different disciplines across the Arts and Sciences divide.

The sessions broadly followed

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topics which members of the group were keen to discuss. The first one was a brief discussion of myths in different religions, which displayed a great knowledge of Hindu and Norse myths if little deeper insight about their nature generally. The next topic which spanned a few sessions examined whether human beings were good or evil, to what extent violence or some kind of moral compass of an altruistic kind were innate.

Thus, reading on Rousseau’s ideas of the ‘noble savage’ was compared with the ‘war of all against all’ of Thomas Hobbes, and the theme of violence continued with the read through of Chapter two of a book by Rutger Bregman entitled ‘Humankind: a Hopeful History’ on the fascinating true story of a group of teenage boys from a strict Anglican school being shipwrecked by themselves on a desert island in the Indian Ocean for two years. This was compared with the fictional ‘Lord of the Flies’ to suggest that perhaps cooperation and order are far deeper rooted than the apparent desire for the strong to gang up against the weak as the most natural default position once the veneer of civilisation has been removed. In addition, a chapter from former Chief Rabbi Jonathan Sacks’ book Not in God’s Name about religion and violence, with some powerful thoughts in violence and identity beginning with a joke told in the film The Imitation Game: ‘Two friends are walking in the jungle when they hear the roar of a lion. The first starts thinking of places they

can hid. The second puts on his running shoes. The first says, ‘What are you thinking of? You can’t possibly run faster than a lion’. The second replies, ‘I don’t need to run faster than the lion. I just need to run faster than you’.’ This leads to a discussion of the power of a tribe working for the common good of the tribe, and the opposition to those who are not part of the tribe, a kind of inclusion that also involves exclusion, moving on to scapegoating as a way of preserving group identity. There was also a largely sceptical dismissal by this particular group of a video showing very young children apparently choosing a good shape over against a bad shape, but this was thought mostly due to the colours involved. There were some disturbing facts about the violence of chimps from Aristo Cham.

The second major topic discussed Peter Singer’s exposition of ‘speciesism’ and rights for animals, and a lengthy debate followed on whether there were significant differences between the human animal and other species, and whether there was anything that distinguished us of a quantum kind, or whether we were indeed just one more strand of life in the eco-system; there was also mention of Singer’s controversial view that a human baby has sentience but not personhood, and how this altered our perception of the sanctity of human life in particular. This too produced a spirited discussion.

The next topic covered two aspects surrounding death

and dying- the question of the immortality of the human soul (do animals have any such immortality?) and how and whether we should strive to keep people alive at any cost. One noted idea that became clear was how many human cultures seem to accept some idea of immortality.

Two sessions then tackled ideas of freedom- Isaiah Berlin’s positive and negative political freedom, moving on to ideas of sexual freedom and gender selfidentity. This produced a lively discussion of liberal ideas, which raised the interesting question of homosexuality and Christianity as another topic. This involved examining the YouTube video of Rev Calvin Robinson’s speech against same-sex marriage at the Oxford Union and an article from First Things entitled ‘Against Heterosexuality’. Both proved controversial, one for being unashamedly traditional Christian teaching, the other for arguing for a fluidity in orientation that tends rather to mark discussions of gender.

The final two meetings at the end of the Summer Term examined the relationship between thought and language by reading some comments of Wittgenstein in Philosophical Investigations concerning St Augustine’s picture of language acquisition in the Confessions, rooting language in forms of life. This proved a good introduction to the problems of AI and ChatGPT, somewhat ameliorated by the future of farming sketched out to Ms

Alcantara by a local farmer as he envisioned farming by robots in which he simply manned a control room of drones and automated machines doing the farming.

Those who stuck with the sessions throughout most of the year- Aristo Cham, Aleksandra Mulewickz, Olvier Westlake, Maya Krishan and Bryn Jennings, clearly enjoyed it sufficiently to request further discussions in the Upper Sixth Form, and the others who attended most of the sessions both contributed and probably gained some insights from it- Bea Garrett, Edith Jenkins, Lily-Rose Hall, Jessie von Der Schulenburg.

It is a delight as a teacher to have such a varied and intelligent group of pupils to converse with about perennial issues as well as the crazier aspects of the modern world.

Hugh Walters Head of Theology and Teacher of History

Miss Leung who took on the responsibility of looking after one of these three groups. The boom in popularity this year allowed us to expand our offer, with some pupils choosing to concentrate on improving their chess skills with the help and guidance of Luis Tang (Barlow Upper Sixth) and Freddy Trounce (Roberts Lower Sixth); others took on the opportunity to learn how to play other boardgames introduced to them by Dylan Chan (Smythe Upper Sixth).

The Club has certainly become more pupil-led recently which is a sign of how well-established it has become.

On the feast day of St Gregory, we welcomed pupils from Prior Park College for our annual chess fixture. The competition took place in the Petre Library and guests were invited to join us for dinner in the Refectory afterwards.

Our visitors were also treated to an informative tour of the Abbey Church by Fr Michael. At the end Chess Club of the tour, pupils were able to There has been an explosion of pray by the tomb of the founder interest in chess amongst young of their School, Bishop Baines, people worldwide. Chess.com can led by one of their accompanying see over ten million active users teachers, Mr Watkinson-Trim, to in a single day. The site crashed whom we owe the establishment in January this year because of of these fixtures. We visited the heavy traffic it experienced.

Prior Park College the following Downside has not been immune to week for a second fixture in their this trend. The Chess Club became impressive Academy Hall. We were one of the most popular options also warmly welcomed to their amongst the Monday afternoon school and offered dinner in their activities this year, with nearly Refectory. Despite some tough forty pupils involved every week competition, and unlike last year, split across three classrooms. This Downside won both fixtures this expansion was only possible thanks year. We look forward to repeating to the support of Mr Bryson and this event next year, and possibly

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anyone looking to improve their chess skills. He also established the Chess Ladder which quickly became very popular amongst pupils and staff. We hope to build on his legacy next year, just as we have continued to build on initiatives introduced in previous years.

Highest rank in the ladder: Luis Tang Individual Chess Cup: Luis Tang House Chess Cup: Smythe House

forming new links with other local schools.

The Inter House Chess Tournament has become a muchanticipated event in the Downside calendar. This year saw the highest turnout, with nearly forty pupils playing in one of thirty-six matches and many more attending as spectators and supporters. The tournament came to a head on Friday 9th June when Barlow and Smythe met in the final to decide this year’s winner. Both sides were evenly matched. The first game finished after thirty-five minutes and gave Barlow the advantage.

The second game finished ten minutes later and was won by Smythe. It all came down to the final game played between Sixth Form pupils. Bryn’s and Clovis’ excellent eye for error secured them a win and brought the trophy back to Smythe, defeating this year’s clear favourites.

I would like to finish by expressing my gratitude to Luis Tang, a very worthy first winner

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of the Individual Chess Cup introduced this year. Luis is a talented, self-taught chess player.

He sought out opportunities to challenge himself which led him to take part in the Chess Frome Congress last year. Luis was the top Somerset player in the Intermediate Section and won the Roy Hossel Trophy. Throughout this year, Luis has faithfully offered ‘Chess Clinics’ every week to

Dr Jesus Tapia Amador Head of Mathematics & Assistant House Master (Roberts)

I’ve made friends from all around the world here at Downside.

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TRIPS

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Downside School Ski Trip Whilst the majority of the School were heading off onto a well-deserved Lent Half Term break 44 pupils and six members of staff embarked on Ski Trip to Leysin, Switzerland. With Covid in the rear mirror we wanted to offer an exciting, fun and accessible trip, open to all year groups. What better way to spend a week with friends whilst also learning or developing a new skill?

Chloe, in the Upper Sixth Form has summed up the feelings of those who were lucky enough to take part in her review of the trip: ‘The 11th of February marked the beginning of our ski trip. As it was my first time hitting the slopes, I was exhilarated and full of energy on the 24-hour long drive to Leysin, Switzerland. Skiing was only the beginning of the fun: The journey was never boring, we played games, took three-hour naps to recharge and allow more time for shenanigans, and stayed up late listening to music and looking at the eternal stretch of motorway with stars in the distance.

When we first set foot in Leysin, it comes as no surprise that the first thing I did was face plant into the snow. The Hotel, residence de Leysin, was kind enough to accommodate the Downside group. It provided the perfect escape from the harsh climate

and gave everybody a moment to relax before tackling the slopes. The comfortable wooden interior truly tied together the Swiss atmosphere.

Day one allowed the beginners to get to grips with the technique; my skills were obviously far superior, as I managed to slide backwards onto a beginner’s slope. My expertise expanded, I learnt how parallel ski and stop (funnily named ‘pizza’ and ‘French fry’). I managed to advance into the intermediate group and attempt blue and red slopes. In this group I made so many bonds and won the occasional race against the others. An unexpected challenge was the ski lifts: hopping on and off was a struggle, but the ride up consisted of catching a breath in the crispy, Swiss air and spotting newbies (unskilled, unlike myself) tumbling down the mountain. Despite the long hours of skiing, it did not manage to consume the opportunity of having different fun, like when we went ice skating and tobogganing.

As our time came to an end, I found myself quoting Coldplay: “adventure of a lifetime”. My heart sunk when the time came to part with my beloved rental skis. It was one of the best weeks of my time with Downside, and I even got the opportunity to brush up my French. On behalf of

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all the people who came with me on the trip, our thanks fall to Mr Pollard and the teachers who helped make our time at Leysin possible. It was an unforgettable experience, and I would recommend the trip to everyone.’

Chloe Upper Sixth Form We hope to run a School ski trip every two years, with the next trip scheduled for the Lent Half Term holiday in 2025.

History of Art Trip On Wednesday 19th Sixth Form History of Art and Art pupils enjoyed a study day in Oxford. The morning was spent at Blenheim Palace analysing the beautiful architecture – the compositions of the facades, the remarkable Baroque decorative features and the lavish interiors. We visited the Ashmolean Museum in the afternoon to view their eclectic collection of art and artefacts. Our main focus was the nineteenth and twentieth century art.

Mrs William’s Art pupils paid particular attention to the portraiture collection. The Art History pupils found works by Rodin, Renoir, and Kandinsky to feed their knowledge. In total, a productive and enjoyable day for all.

Rachel Sanders Teacher of History of Art

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The Salamanca Trip In February half term a group of Fourth, Fifth and Sixth Form pupils, accompanied by Mrs Iglesias and Dr Tapia, travelled to Salamanca, Spain on a language and cultural trip. The purpose of the trip was to give pupils an opportunity to immerse themselves in the Spanish language and culture, attending language lessons in the morning as an intensive course for their GCSE and A Level studies, practising the language with their host families and trying Spanish food during their meals with them, as well as taking part in a wide range of cultural and fun activities in which pupils were given challenges and tasks to complete with the purpose of practising the language as much as possible.

After a very early start on Saturday morning, we took the flight to Madrid and on landing we caught a coach that took us to the beautiful city of Salamanca, where we would spend the next six days of the half term holiday. On our arrival in Salamanca, we were greeted by the lovely host families on Saturday afternoon and welcomed by Miguel and his team, from Colegio Delibes, who looked after us during our stay there and who organised a fun-packed programme of activities for us. The Downside pupils split into groups of three or four, and amidst a sense of excitement and nerves, walked with the families to see their home for the next few days. In the evening we all met in la Plaza Mayor, a beautiful gem from the XVIII century and one of the most stunning monumental squares in Europe. We enjoyed a stroll on the cobbled streets, and we were startled by the richness of these close quarters in this prosperous University city on a cold February evening. On Sunday, we had the privilege of a detailed and wellinformed guided trip of the beautiful cathedrals in Salamanca and the old area. Our tour guide, Maria Jose, taught us some interesting facts, for example that Salamanca hosts the oldest university in Europe, and legends, such as that if you manage to find a frog hidden in the beautiful carving stonework above the Puerta de Salamanca façade at university, you will pass your exams. However,

historians have another idea, the frog sitting on top of a skull was a warning for pupils not to give into lust. Only a few streets away, we found ourselves admiring the modern decorations in the façade of the New Cathedral, such as a gargoyle eating ice cream or an astronaut in space suit. We were given the chance to ask some interesting questions, always in Spanish, and we were fascinated with Maria Jose’s knowledge and her informative explanations on the history of Salamanca. I am sure this city, also known as the golden city for the colour of the sandstone of its buildings and the bright golden reflection of this in the sun, will stay in the memory of our pupils and it gave them a taste of the Spanish culture and way of life and an experience they will treasure.

I think two of the visits our pupils enjoyed the most was walking up to the towers of the Cathedral and visiting the Roman bridge that crosses the Tormes river on the bank of the city.

There were quite a lot of narrow stairs to reach the top of the towers, but it was definitely worth it when we were rewarded with the breathtaking views of the city and there were plenty of areas to take breaks.

On Sunday evening we attended Mass in the beautiful San Esteban church, near the Old Cathedral, and we gathered for a moment of reflection to light candles after Mass.

During the week, pupils were divided into two groups to attend four-hour daily lessons tailored to support their GCSE and A level studies. Pupils practised all skills in lessons taught by native speakers, and they were also able to talk to pupils from other nationalities. After the hard work in lessons, we had several planned trips and activities every day. One of the most enjoyable ones was the visit to Arapiles, where the famous “Battle of Arapiles” took place in 1812, which ended with the victory of the army led by the Duke of Wellington and led to the liberation of Spain from the Napoleonic forces. We admired the beautiful views from the fields, and we saw the magnificent detail and care put into recreating this battle in the simulation centre. Isabel, born in Arapiles, accompanied us on this trip, and it was wonderful to hear the pride with which she narrated the festival that takes place every summer to commemorate the battle and those who died in it. Arapiles, in the heart of inland Spain, only twenty kilometres south of Salamanca, is a real gem and time seemed to have stopped when we walked the streets of this sleepy village on Tuesday afternoon.

Other activities included a salsa lesson taught by a professional dancer, who got even the most reticent onto the dance floor to learn some salsa moves whilst listening to authentic music, a cookery lesson in which pupils were introduced to a Spanish The Raven 2023 117

delicacy, a Spanish omelette and non-alcoholic sangria, and taking part in a photo competition with the talented graffiti as a background in the contemporary and art nouveau “Barrio del Oeste”.

Pupils were also given a questionnaire with some fun questions to answer about interesting facts of the city and they even asked some locals for help, always using Spanish.

Amongst the business of the day, pupils also had the opportunity to develop their language skills going into souvenir shops or patisseries and practise their language skills in the local shops.

We were amazed by the beautifully decorated delicatessen shops where we could find the typical “hornazo” which is a type of pastry filled with ham and chorizo, and a real delicacy of the region.

We thank Colegio Delibes for their hospitality and Halsbury travel for their help organising this wonderful trip and for allowing Downside pupils to have this experience, which I know they will never forget. We look forward to going back to Salamanca very soon and I am grateful for the enthusiasm our pupils embraced this experience with. I am proud of the way they represented the School and of the relationships pupils from different year groups built.

Belen Iglesias Head of First to Third Form, Head of ITT and Teacher of MFL Our trip to Salamanca was an experience I’ll never forget. The trip started, for me, as early as 4am as we had to wake up early to drive from our School to the airport. But I was excited. I could barely sleep in my anticipation. This trip was my first chance to actually immerse myself in the Spanish culture, speak the language, try new foods and meet new people.

In Salamanca, we were staying with other Spanish families who were part of the program we took part in on our trip. We were split up, so different groups stayed with different families. I think my family was the best. Our ‘mother’ and her kids were so nice and welcoming. I quite enjoyed playing with her kids whenever we were at the house.

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Playing Uno with her kids, in Spanish, was a very memorable experience.

The mother suggested some fantastic places to visit in Salamanca but sadly, we couldn’t visit them all. There was only so much you could do in just six days. But I think I used my time well.

Each day we would do different activities along with going to school -were they taught us Spanish, in Spanish- for about four hours in the morning. The school really was one of my highlights. We were taught, in Spanish, common phrases used, the future tense, the past tense, different careers, expressions, foods and places in the city- and I learnt so much!

At the end of our four-day-schooling we received a certificate saying that we’d studied there, and I couldn’t be prouder to have such a certificate.

The activities, also, were so much fun. My favorite activity was the cooking lessons we had where learnt how to make tortilla de patatas (potato omelets) and sangria (without the alcohol.) It was very fun and very delicious.

In between the various activities, we were given some free time which we used to explore the city.

I take joy in the little things. So, every opportunity I had to speak Spanish I did. My friends and I went to various restaurants and cafes and went shopping, conversing with locals in their language. It was simply convivial.

Also, our tour of Salamanca was quite awesome.

It was even more so thrilling as the tour was given in Spanish. Obviously, I did not understand everything they were saying but I tried. I listened. I learned.

I would catch a few words and ask my teacher the meaning. She would explain them to me, and I would give a big ‘ohhh’ as I started to get what was being said. And this would only drive me more to listen to the stories and history of Salamanca. I had the best opportunities to take some amazing pictures around the city.

Overall, the trip was fantastic. I truly hope we get to go there again sometime.

Awele Obinna-Onunkwo Fourth Form

have been the odd snowball fight.

Geography Residential After some busy days of data collection, pupils On the 6th March the Geography Department were rewarded with hearty home-cooked meals in took Lower Sixth pupils on the annual residential the great hall, before working long into the evenings trip to the 15th Century manor of Nettlecombe analysing their data and completing some statistical Court, previously the seat of the Trevelyan baronets, analysis. which is snuggled into the foothills of Exmoor and The Lower Sixth pupils completed much sits on the edge of the National Park. work over the week, and thanks must go to Mr Our geographers were introduced to a wide range Dolman managed to battle against the inclement of fieldwork methods and techniques on the topics meteorological conditions despite feeling decidedly of hydrology, the perception of place and the water under the weather himself. and carbon cycles. They then planned and started Fieldwork continues to be an integral element to their non-examined assessments, also known the study of Geography and the pupils learnt much as coursework, which accounts for 20% of the from the week. This included devising the best Geography A Level. methods for getting the population of Minehead to The group spent the week collecting information answer questionnaires and how to trudge up some on a wide range of topics including the potential steep Exmoor hills and footpaths while carrying use of different tree species for possible carbon significant quantities of fieldwork equipment. sequestration, how the perception of the town of We look forward to next year’s trip but hope Minehead may differ from reality and factors that the weather might be slightly more favourable. influence infiltration rates on different types of agricultural land use.

Oliver Simper Pupils were well settled into the homely manor Head of Fourth & Fifth Forms, and managed to brave the unseasonable weather Head of Humanities & Careers which included plenty of rain and, on one day, five inches of snow. Of course, the obligatory snowman was constructed on the front lawn and there may CERN Trip On the 6th of October, our A Level Physicists travelled to Geneva to visit CERN. CERN is the European Organization for Nuclear Research and one of the world’s largest and most respected centres for scientific research.

Arriving late on Thursday evening, our visit began in earnest on Friday. The first thing on our schedule was the S’Cool Lab workshops. We developed our knowledge of particle physics, created our own cloud chambers and investigated superconductivity, working with sample materials and liquid nitrogen.

Under the careful eye of highly qualified scientists, we developed our measuring, observation, and teamwork skills. Time went by very quickly, and after three hours of intense work, we happily went for lunch at CERN’s cafeteria, side by side with some of the world’s greatest physics minds.

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After a delicious meal, we visited the astonishing Universe of Particles Museum, where we were guided round an exhibition on the history of CERN and its missions. The most interesting part for many was the presentation which explained the purpose of the facility’s research conducted.

After a brief tram journey into the centre of Geneva we visited the History of Science Museum, which was simply incredible. We were able to view some of the most important inventions of modern science including an early electron microscope, Volta’s early batteries and Coulomb’s personal electrometer. Afterwards, we absorbed the beauty of Lake Geneva and the Swiss Alps, enjoying a walk along the lake to the city centre, where after some free time we devoted ourselves to a delicious traditional local dinner.

You would have probably thought it was enough to call it a day, but no. We had one more attraction to enjoy, bowling. Divided into groups of six, alongside the teachers, we stretched our muscles after a day full of mind exercising.

Our last day in Switzerland began, quite like the previous one, with breakfast and a tram to CERN.

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On arrival, there was an amazing guide waiting for us, and after an informative presentation we went on to visit the facilities. Our first stop was the Control Centre – the thriving heart and mind of the whole operation. It was a unique opportunity to see scientists working in real-time. After learning how the LHC works we went to see one of its seven detectors- ALICE (A Large Ion Collider Experiment). We were lucky enough to tour the facility and view the detector before receiving a presentation on its research.

This was a very educational trip which taught us many facts such as, you really can dig deep into an atom, neutrino, and deeper into protons, then quarks, and into the unknown. We also learnt that the power of the human mind is capable of things that for centuries were even unimaginable.

We would like to express our special thanks to Mr. Worsman for organising and leading the whole trip, as well as Mrs. Murphy and Mr. Hicks for taking care of us.

Joszko & Pawel Lower Sixth Form

The Bay of Naples Classic Trip 2022 The recent Bay of Naples trip saw three days (or what felt like six due to a severe lack of sleep) of exploration, culture and gelato. With a brisk set off at 3 am, once in Italy, we arrived at Herculaneum – one of the only nearly intact Roman sites in the world – exploring through Roman villas, baths, gardens and catching glimpses of skeletons. In the museum was an array of objects that were found on site, including a vast collection of jewellery and trinkets. Later being set free to get our first tastes of Italian gelato in the colourful town of Sorrento, we stayed long enough to buy some tourist ‘tat’ before heading off directly to the Bay of Naples, into an ominous hotel with a magnificent view of the mountains in the background behind us and the bay in front. In true European style, we were treated to a three-course meal at 9pm, although most of us were struggling to stay awake, particularly when a full plate of pasta was revealed to be only a starter.

With another early morning, we set off for Paestum which appeared a welcome break from the strong Roman culture we had been immersed in. An expansive piece of land dotted with olive trees and three majestic Greek temples, it felt like stepping into Athens. However, full of pizza, we set off yet again, this time to Pompei itself. The city lived up to its fame, walking through street after street of the Roman town, eventually reaching the notorious home of Caecilius.

Competing against Pompei for highlight of the trip, the following morning was the climbing of Mount Vesuvius itself. Having already spent several hours admiring the extravagance of the Villa Oplontis (a luxurious home built for the second wife of Nero) and the decadence of two basilicas in Torre Annunziata, we faced a 900m elevation to reach the crater, formed from the explosions that had buried the streets of Herculaneum and Pompei that we had previously walked through. Upon reaching the summit, we received an interesting talk from a guide and then walked around the top of the crater, with the clouds clearing for enough

time to give us a glimpse at the bottom of the 300m deep crater and the entirety of the Bay of Naples which was laid out before us. Thankfully, we survived the coach trip back down, teetering on the edge more than once, to arrive in our final stop: the city of Naples. After a visit to the most magisterial basilica yet, we took advantage of our final meal in Italy with Napoletana pizza and gelato.

Bea Garrett Lower Sixth Form

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REVIEWS REPORTS

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ART CCF DRAMA MUSIC LIBRARY SPORT

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ART This year it has been great to have the opportunity to take groups out to exhibitions again and we have plans for exciting trips for 2023/24.

We welcomed a new Artist in Residence Lydia Cottrell who is a children’s book illustrator. Lydia was a fantastic addition to the department with lots of enthusiasm. Her work was the direct inspiration for projects produced by Third Form illustrating Aesops Fables and First Form creating clay animal characters. Lydia also helped to move forward the printmaking in the department especially the screen printing and we look forward to developing this further next year with our new Artist in Residence.

In the Lent Term we joined forces with the History of Art Department to take a trip to London Galleries which was truly inspiring. We saw the Lucian Freud portraits exhibition at the National Gallery, Making Modern at The Royal Academy of Arts and The Courtauld Art Gallery.

We have also been holding some art talk evening sessions in the art studios with talks from the Royal Academy with Grayson Perry on humour in

art, Fashid Moussari on the role of architects. The Cedars Hall in Wells has also been running a series of Art History talks and we have been able to enjoy these online as well. We will be looking to increase the frequency of these talks as part of next year’s programme.

In the Lent Term a planned trip to Cardiff National Museum and Cardiff Castle for Fourth Form unfortunately due to snow had to be cancelled but we will reschedule this for the Michaelmas Term.

In the Summer Term we did a joint trip with History of Art and English to take the Sixth Form to the Rossettis Exhibition at Tate Britain, then the group split up in the afternoon with the artists and art historians going to The National Gallery to see After Impressionism: Inventing Modern Art, and the English pupils visiting the recently reopened National Portrait Gallery. These were all interesting exhibitions and related extremely well to the pupil’s areas of study.

For the Three Days in June the Art Department

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worked on a project with a group of pupils to create three large canvas pictures inspired by the architecture of Bath. We started the Three Days with a visit to Bath to take photographs and visit the galleries and museums. Day two and three the pupils worked hard on producing mixed media compositions with excellent results. We will be hanging these in the main School at the beginning of next term.

We are looking forward to expanding our trips next year with a joint trip with History of Art to Paris and resuming our Fourth Form trip to Cornwall.

We had some excellent artwork produced by GCSE and A level art pupils this year and we will be mounting an exhibition of the work in the main School during the Michaelmas term.

Erica Williams Head of Art

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CCF The Officers: Lieutenant Colonel N. Barrett CPO D. Pollard (RN) Major J. Storey Captain O. Simper Lieutenant R. Worsman 2nd Lieutenant E. Spurling LCpl H. Howard (Reserves) Lieutenant S Barrett (RN) Lieutenant C. Warren (RN) Sub-Lieutenant F. Seggie (RN) Sub-Lieutenant C. Murphy (RN) CFAV W. Vaughan CFAV I. Ramsden Third Form cadets spent the whole of the Michaelmas Term being instructed in several Basic Army syllabus activities, including dress and turnout, and basic drill, but with a particular emphasis on navigation and campcraft, in preparation for their Bronze D of E expedition in the Summer Term.

Fourth Form Army section cadets were introduced to the Cadet GP A2 rifle for the first time, covering elements of the Advanced Army syllabus, whilst Fifth Form Army section cadets spent the term brushing up on their weapon training skills, in addition to completing the Advanced Army syllabus. Lower Sixth Form cadets were given MOI training, with Major Storey, with occasional outside assistance From Sgt Chris Broome from 18 CTT whilst Upper Sixth Form Senior NCOs helped to instruct, and assisted staff deliver junior and senior platoon activities on a Monday afternoon. The Navy section staff and NCOs delivered a series of informative lessons to our junior cadets, engaging regularly in team building, problem-solving, and practical leadership tasks. Canoeing and sailing weekend activities continued to regularly take place during the first half of the term. This year’s Remembrance Service was focused upon the

23 Old Gregorians who lost their lives on land between 1939 and 1943, and Father Michael also mentioned Dom Gervase, the first British Army chaplain to die in the Second World War. We dressed the graves in the Monk’s Cemetery, and St Benedict’s Churchyard the following day, and the CCF Band once again led the Remembrance Parade through the streets of Bath.

Unfortunately, we were unable to run our annual Third Form evening exercise on Yoxter, in late March, due to staff unavailability. We also sadly had to say farewell to Major John Storey, who left Downside at the end of the Lent term to take up the post of Chaplin at Winchester College.

John was a highly enthusiastic and knowledgeable member of the CCF staff, and we will certainly miss his professional presence on a Monday afternoon. I know that John certainly wanted to be much more involved in all things CCF, especially evening exercises and camps, but that his role as Housemaster of Smythe meant that he was unable to get as fully involved as he would have liked to have been.

Easter Camp on Dartmoor was particularly eventful and proved to be a steep learning curve for the fourteen Fourth Form cadets completing just 12 places in our two allocated Ten Tors, 35-mile

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teams. The weather was very challenging at times, and adult training and experience were certainly put to the test. We also took several Lower Sixth Form pupils and a small group of Fourth Form pupils with us, who were completing their practice Silver and Gold Duke of Edinburgh expeditions.

With the Coronation of King Charles III, The Ten Tors Challenge was moved forward a week and took place over the last weekend of April. Our two 35-mile teams did exceptionally well, and both completed the challenge arriving over the finish line early on Sunday afternoon, barely 20 minutes apart.

Several of the pupils’ parents, and Andrew Hobbs and his wife Damaris were also in attendance to cheer them home. Interviews for next year’s key NCO positions took place just before Half Term, in late May, this year’s thirteen-strong field of applicants was particularly strong, this certainly bodes well for next year, and they all came across as very committed and enthusiastic at interview.

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The D of E Bronze Expedition took place on the Mendips, just before Half Term, and proved to be a very successful and enjoyable two days, luckily blessed with fine and warm weather. Just before the half-term break the CCF Paraded and dressed the graves of the nine pupils and the Royal Navy Reserve pilot, on the 80th anniversary of the plane crash on the School cricket pitches, joined by relatives of the boys that were killed as well as Old Gregorian’s that were present on that fateful day.

After a short service, a cherry tree was planted and blessed to commemorate the occasion.

Inspection Day could not take place in Early May, this year, due in part to the King’s Coronation, and the placing of the Third and Fourth Form summer internal examinations, so we decided that we would, instead, arrange a CCF Field Day in June.

The Naval section spent the day on the water at Saltford, on the River Avon, canoeing, kayaking and paddleboarding whilst Third and Fourth Form

cadets spent the day at Downside. Major Tom Shorland-Ball (R05) and soldiers from the Royal Dragoon Guards, based at Warminster who ran several stands in and around the Shubbery, including cam and concealment, basha building, a blind-man command task, an observation stand, as well as a Panther armoured vehicle that cadets were able to sit in and understand how the automated weapon system is operated. It was also a fantastic opportunity to catch up with Tom and reminiscence about his time in the School. The Navy returned in time for the Senior NCO Promotion Parade at the cricket pavilion, where all members of Lower Sixth Form were promoted, and key senior NCO appointments were announced. Congratulations go to JUO, Head of the CCF, Lily Rose-Hall, RSM Victor Bennett, and Chief Petty Officer, and Head of the Navy, Sofia Collier. During the last week of term, the Silver D of E expedition took place, as per usual, in the Vale of Pewsey. The 17 Fourth Form

cadets had an enjoyable three days, and two nights, in beautiful scenery, and trekking miles and miles of tranquil footpaths.

This year’s CCF central camp was due to take place at Okehampton, but due to demand currently being placed on defence training establishments, was switched to Yoxter. 17 Fourth and Fifth Form cadets, and four staff, spent a very enjoyable and exhausting first week of the summer holiday engaged in a demanding programme of military activities. Being such a small camp pupils and staff spent the week under canvas in unusually cool and at times very wet conditions. These included a 48-hour exercise in which cadets had to spend two nights under bashas in the training area, live firing the Cadet GP for their shooting badges, section attacks, a section Casualty Evacuation scenario, a CQB pairs a manoeuvre stand, and some laser tag.

Other activities during the week included archery, a climbing wall, CIS (signals instruction), laser shotgun

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and an actual shotgun stand as well as an evening PT session and the opportunity to have a go at a Gun Run competition. Cadets were promoted to the rank of either Lance Corporal or Sergeant on the completion of the camp and we also presented Lt Worsman with a leaving gift who is sadly leaving the School to take up a new post at Monkton Combe School, Bath in September. Rory has been a very dedicated officer over the past seven years, and we will miss his enthusiastic and dedicated service. Rory has been very committed to all that we do in the CCF, especially supporting both Easter and Summer camps, Ten Tors and evening exercises on Yoxter. He takes on the responsibility of the head of the Army section at his new school, so I am sure our paths will cross again soon. 21 Upper Sixth Form pupils spent the first five days of the summer break completing their D of E Gold Expedition on Dartmoor. Again, the weather was unusually cool and wet, adding to the navigational challenges posed by the terrain.

Sadly, this year we learned of the passing of Lt Col Hugh Pountney, formerly Contingent Commander of our CCF for some 18 years. He was a larger-than-life character, a great orator, and cared passionately about the cadet movement.

He will be sadly missed by many Old Gregorians.

I am still in touch with our former SSI W01 Roger Nicholas, who has just turned 80 and is now living in Bodmin. I’m sure he would love to hear from

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former Senior NCOs in the Corps, and if you contact me at nbarrett@downside.co.uk I would be happy to put you in contact with Roger.

As is customary I would like to finish this report by thanking the Senior NCO’s JUO Pedro Puente Hervella, RSM Caspar Shaw, and CPO Ivan Boas, for their dedicated service. The CCF staff, continue to give so much despite the academic pressures placed upon them this year. And finally, CPO, and our SSI, David Pollard, who continues to work tirelessly behind the scenes.

Neill Barrett Head of Art and Design

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It is often said that what you put into something is what you get out of it and due to the unbeatable commitment and perseverance of both cast, crew and directors, Chicago was truly an incredible experience.

With a huge diversity of abilities, the play not only allowed us to grow and develop but really challenged us into attempting something new. Each person threw themselves into this and was continually supported by our amazing directors, which ultimately led to a great show. That is not to say it was without its challenges; from broken jail bars to costumes disappearing and microphone mishaps, the cast have a few memories that you can only laugh at.

Rehearsals started in the late Michaelmas Term, with the cast spending every Thursday

of the show when we walked into the theatre one day to see the full set including our very own jail bars, albeit they were slightly unstable. In the week running up to the show, we had the band, the costumes, the lighting, and sound, which included Downside pupils, all giving up their time to make sure our three nights ran smoothly, with a professional feel. We were also joined by a pupil run backstage crew, that managed to deal with a lot of backstage nerves and quick costume changes. All units worked cohesively to support the cast and really push the standard of the show up.

The nights themselves ran through in a blur but were thrilling and got better with each performance!

The true success of a show is generally measured by the cast and with Chicago, the cast really did an excellent job.

There are definitely a few pupils that we will need to keep an eye on in the future. However, what really made the cast so strong was the friendships forged, irrespective of year group. Doing a musical and dedicating time and effort is definitely trying at times, but really reveals just how supportive the Downside community is.

A highlight for everyone was the fabulous pizza party at the end of the Saturday show, which was accompanied by an excellent Taylor Swift playlist. This was arranged by our incredible team of directors: Ms Schofield, Ms Robey and Miss Sigley. The whole cast is grateful for the tireless work they put in and can honestly say that no one could have done a better job than them. They have really demonstrated that musicals are such a valuable part of Downside life.

CHICAGO and most Sundays together (snacks included of course). Each number was worked on individually until eventually we started to put together the whole show in the Lent Term. The addition of the onstage choir definitely enhanced the show, bringing some of Downside’s famous musical ability in the Abbey onto the stage. Everyone in the choir worked incredibly hard to familiarise themselves with the songs, being kept in check by Miss Moody. The band too really brought the musical to life, especially with some music teachers returning to help out. Another real point of excitement was receiving the costumes, as it is with any production — a particular favourite were the orange prison jumpsuits that were five times too big. We all saw the true potential

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Bea Garrett Lower Sixth Form

However, what really made the cast so strong was the friendships forged, irrespective of year group.

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DIDO Welcome from the Director and Producer Alicia Carroll – Director’s Note Many years ago, my dear friend Rachel Bevan (Singing Teacher at Downside) and I were discussing Purcell’s opera Dido & Aeneas (or Dido for short). At the time Rachel was directing her production to celebrate the girls arriving at Downside, and I was producing it at Prior Park College. We both agreed that it is a wonderful introduction to opera. Rachel was an inspirational teacher who loved her pupils.

She was a fine professional singer and I loved working with her, but tragically she died last year and had her funeral at Downside. We dedicated this performance to Rachel, in the School with which she and her family had so many connections over decades.

Dido and Aeneas is a baroque opera by one of the greatest composers Henry Purcell. It is a perfect opera for schools to

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produce. It is in English, and it is only an hour long. It has comedy, tragedy, and romance, and above all the music is sublime.

It has been a complete pleasure working with this amazing and dedicated team of pupils. Opera is not easy, and singing recitative is a complicated art form. From mid-October George Bevan and I have met the pupils for 35 minutes each week to work on the music and in the last three days we have put together the whole opera.

My idea was to have a simple, clear design, helping the audience to concentrate on the music and drama as the opera unfolds. The chorus acts like a Greek chorus, hence their masks. They comment on the action and show wisdom when in Dido’s court. They then turn into witches and sailors, building upon the drama.

The tragedy of Dido and Aeneas is timeless – we know too well it is better to work together and be friends than to wage war, and if one is too proud and cannot forgive, then it will ultimately bring about one’s downfall. Hubris is visible all around us in modern life and is a timeless theme in many art forms.

Within the opera are set dances and I am delighted that in our department we have the wonderful dance teacher Sarah Sigley – dance is an integral part of opera.

To complete the Dido team, we are so fortunate in the department to have professional instrumental players who teach the pupils. That evening the pupils were accompanied by a professional string ensemble with harpsichord.

It has been a complete pleasure working with this amazing and dedicated team of pupils

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Around the World The Lent Term Production was open to younger pupils from 3F to 4F this year as we staged a romp around the world. The vision of the play was to be mainly pupil lead and so we had our resident pupil teacher, Miss Ackerley taking the lead as Director with assistance from Ms McGarry and Bea Garrett in Lower Sixth. Miss Ackerley used Brechtian techniques of making theatre visible and breaking the fourth wall by having all the performers on stage with all their props and costumes for on stage changes of character.

The ensemble cast all played several different roles apart from the principles.

Natasza Wyganowska captured the essence of Mr Phileas Fogg and his unwavering punctuality and Hugh Jones as Passepartout made an excellent foil. He performed with great energy and conviction and a wonderful French accent! Amelie Murphy as Mrs Aouda was beautifully serene and elegant.

Seth Michaels as Fix showed us his skill as

a character actor and was hilarious with his timing and physicality. Mr Naidu, played by Boudica Healey, was convincing in the role as fix it man/guide.

Miss Ackerley, keen to include the many elements of classroom drama that we have been developing, used a puppet elephant (beautifully crafted by artist in resident Lydia Cotteral) for the journey through the jungle and other physical theatre elements included a human train, a human revolving door and many different boats for the journeys across the seas. The ensemble rose to every ridiculous challenge asked of them!

We hope to continue to push Downside’s understanding of the breadth of Drama and productions in our next lower school ensemble play.

Anna McGarry House Mistress (Caverel) and Teacher of English and Drama

The cast Anna Carrick-Buchanan Fiona Dolman Jess Hall Boudica Healey Francis Ingram

Hugh Jones Lara Macmillan Amanda Mendizabal De Barros Seth Michaels Amelie Murphy Awele Obinna-Onunkwo

Isabelle Penny Ottilie Rees-Davies Alexa Ridge Rosie Rooney Natasza Wyganowska

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DRAMA Drama continues to grow as an Academic subject at Downside. The First to Third Form all receive a lesson of Drama per week where they develop widely applicable skills such as communication, teamwork, listening skills, devising and imaginative skills, and problem solving. They are also encouraged to immerse themselves into a drama experience where they can take on roles and empathise with lives very far beyond their own; as well as explore the facets of human existence. First Form have studied a range of themes including: Graveyards and Remembrance tapping into Downside’s past pupils who have been killed in Action and using Verbatim Theatre to explore the true words of nurses, people on the Home Front and Soldiers; Storytelling and Puppetry; Greek Myths; Soap Opera and Stanislavski and relationships looking at Blood Bothers. The Second Form have explored Physical Theatre and symbolism; experienced an immersive project revolving around the refugee crisis called The Baby on the Beach; explored monologues and character development and some stock character work. The Third Form have studies Punchdrunk techniques through the social criminal justice issue of Bentley and Craig; they have experimented with masked theatre using Trestle and Frantic Assembly techniques and they have dipped into Brecht and Epic Theatre through The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui. This year saw the introduction of GCSE Drama and our dedicated group of pupils have tackled the demanding course head on. Following a series of workshops looking at different practitioners and Theatre Makers, they began their devised piece inspired by the work of Banksy. Their pieces explored themes of immigration and social inequality as well as mental health issues. They are now well into the deep study of The Crucible for the examination.

The A level is also well underway with the devised piece but with a focus on set design and

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technology. This piece has been inspired by the play Home and looks at ideas of identity and acceptance with Complicite as the practitioner.

Theatre trips this year have included Fe Fu and Friends at The Tobacco Factory, Anna Karenina at Bristol Old Vic, The Burnt City by Punchdrunk in London, Hamlet at Bath Theatre Royal with the English Department, An Inspector Calls with the English Department and Of Mice and Men again at Bath with the English Department. It is so important for pupils to be exposed to a wide range of styles and genres in order to inform their understanding and practise.

Anna McGarry House Mistress (Caverel) and Teacher of English and Drama

LAMDA RESULTS Garrett Petersen Baynton-Coward

Beatrice Jan-Christian Clover

Acting (Solo - Gold medal) Acting (Solo - Gold medal) Acting (Solo - Gold medal)

8 8 8

Distinction Merit Merit

Summer 2023 Lent 2023 Summer 2023

Carrick-Buchannan Anna Macmillan Lara de Pelet Alexander

Acting (Duo - Bronze medal) Acting (Duo - Bronze medal) Speaking Verse & Prose (Bronze medal)

6 6 6

Distinction Distinction Merit

Summer 2023 Summer 2023 Lent 2023

Murphy Jones Ridge

Amelie Hugh Alexa

Acting (Combined) Acting (Solo) Acting (Combined)

5 5 5

Merit Distinction Distinction

Lent 2023 Lent 2023 Lent 2023

Healey Rees-Davies Petersen Millington Ingram Dolman

Boudica Ottilie Conrad Euan Frances Fiona

Acting (Combined) Acting (Combined) Acting (Solo) Acting (Solo) Acting (Duo) Acting (Duo)

4 4 4 4 4 4

Distinction Distinction Merit Merit Merit Merit

Lent 2023 Lent 2023 Lent 2023 Lent 2023 Lent 2023 Lent 2023

Rooney Michaels Onyejindu-Okonji Onyejindu-Okonji Moleres Bel Ryan Mossman

Oscar Seth Stephen Maria Rose Mariana Kasper Xavier

Acting (Duo) Speaking Verse & Prose Acting (Duo) Acting (Duo) Acting (Duo) Acting (Duo) Acting (Duo)

3 3 3 3 3 3 3

Merit Distinction Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit

Lent 2023 Lent 2023 Lent 2023 Lent 2023 Lent 2023 Lent 2023 Lent 2023

Garrett Joy

Oliver Luc

Acting (Solo) Acting (Solo)

2 2

Merit Distinction

Lent 2023 Lent 2023

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MUSIC

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The academic year 2022-23 saw an ever more confident and purposeful return to our pre-Covid routines and standards; it saw some significant arrivals both of equipment and of people; and welcomed a couple of successful innovations.

The set-piece performances have already been reviewed and chronicled in other Downside publications, so this article will focus instead on some of the broader themes that have run through the musical year.

Shortly before Christmas, and quite out of the blue, an OG who wishes to remain anonymous presented the School with a large fleet of highquality, new pianos. This allowed us to put a new piano into every practice room and principal performing space, including a Steinway grand in the theatre; to move some of the existing stock into the Boarding Houses and other lower-profile areas; and to pension off a few instruments that, frankly, had long-ago suffered enough. I would like to acknowledge this wonderful donation and record the warm and grateful thanks of all who have been and will be inspired by it.

The impact of this magnificent gift has already been considerable. More pianists are doing additional practice, piano music can be heard wherever one is in the School, and convivial groups gather around the pianos in the public areas, listening to their peers or joining in with all sorts of informal music-making.

The new pianos also inspired one of this year’s innovations. The Petre Cloister will be familiar as the home of our choral rehearsals.

It is an attractive space with a friendly acoustic, but its new piano has also made it viable as a regular performing space, and so were born the Cloister Concerts. This is a series of almost-weekly informal lunchtime concerts, which have quickly become a valued opportunity for our players and singers, and a welcome pause in the middle of a busy day for our large and faithful audience. The variety of instruments, repertoire and experience that has been presented has been vast. It is not uncommon for a programme to include a

nervous beginner playing a first solo alongside a well-established senior trying out some virtuosic diploma repertoire. One of the great strengths of these occasions has been the warmth and support shown by the performers and audience to all the performers, wherever they may have been on their musical journey. I am grateful to all the performers, to their teachers and accompanists, and to Mrs Maggs and Mr Bevan who organise each concert with brilliance and efficiency.

The other big innovation this year was the formation of the Downside Choral Society, which is a non-auditioning choir open to parents, OGs, friends and neighbours. Rehearsals began in January, and, by the end of March, the choir was ready to perform Mozart’s Requiem in the Abbey Church alongside our own Schola Cantorum, with professional soloists and the Downside Festival Orchestra. The next performance, in October, will be of another Requiem, this time John Rutter’s. Mr Bevan runs the choir and would be delighted to hear from any prospective choristers.

We were fortunate to have a rich crop of new music scholars in the Lower Sixth. The first to put his head above the parapet, quite literally, was Pawel Korczagin who performed the Last Post from the gallery chapel in the Abbey Church at the Requiem Mass we celebrated for the repose of the soul of Queen Elizabeth, the day after she died. He had neither seen nor heard the Last Post until the sheet music was given to him with less than 24 hours to prepare, but the quality of his tone, dynamic shading and spacious phrasing, making the most of the Abbey Church’s generous acoustic, produced a memorably spine-tingling performance of immense power and emotion at this most solemn occasion.

It was no surprise that Pawel later went on to gain Distinction with an outstanding 140/150 in Grade 8 trumpet, as well as Distinction in his Polish trumpet Diploma examination.

Bryn Jennings is another new scholar in the Lower Sixth. He dazzled his audiences with a string of virtuosic saxophone performances during the year, prior to passing his ATCL Diploma with

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Distinction in June. Charlie Maggs is the third new scholar in the Sixth Form. A former head chorister of Bath Abbey, he has had an impressive year in our own choirstalls and on stage as the sorcerer in our recent production of Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas.

Other notable examination successes include another Distinction with an outstanding 140/150 in Grade 8, this time for Ciara Millington (also Lower Sixth) for singing. In the Upper Sixth, Dylan Chan and Anna Hayhurst achieved Distinction in Grade 8 singing (Dylan after less than a year’s formal singing tuition), and Ari Ramruttun passed her Advanced Certificate in singing, also with Distinction, and despite having her exam interrupted by a fire alarm!

Some of our singers have been busy outside the School. Ari has been singing in the prestigious National Youth Choir of Great Britain, alongside Euan Elston and James Mason-Carney, while Ayrton Rose has been singing with the no less prestigious Rodolfus Foundation Choir - when he has not been leading the cello section of the Somerset County Youth Orchestra.

Having gone part-time a few years ago, Tricia Rees-Jones stepped back completely from the Music Department Administration in December. I would like to thank her very much for the immense generosity of spirit with which she has served the Department, not only as a skilled, knowledgeable and efficient administrator, but also as a versatile practical musician who has helped us out as a singer, viola player, bassoonist, accompanist, stand-in ensemble leader and, above all, virtuoso cake-baker.

I am glad to say that Tricia has stayed on as choral animateur in support of our younger singers, so she will continue to be a familiar face around the Department.

Music Department Administration has reverted to a single role, and we could not have been more fortunate than to secure the services of Caroline Maggs for this demanding job. Caroline had been doing a similar job in a neighbouring school for several years. She has brought that experience to Downside along with a fresh pair of

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eyes and has refreshed, improved and streamlined our procedures, quickly earning the respect and admiration of colleagues and pupils in the process.

She is indeed warmly welcome.

We are losing a vintage Upper Sixth this year.

Alongside Anna, Ayrton, Ari and Dylan, Maria Diamond, Gladys Chi and Jason Au have variously served the choirs, orchestras and bands with goodhumoured reliability and great musical effectiveness.

They have shown great leadership and musicianship and, as we have moved back to post-Covid normality, they have been particularly valued as keepers and passers-on of our musical traditions and lore. I salute and thank them warmly, as I do all those pupils and colleagues who have played, sung, danced, directed and acted during the year.

Julian McNamara Director of Music, Organist & Master of the Schola Cantorum

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MUSIC EXAM RESULTS Jennings Ramruttun

Bryn Ari

Saxophone Singing

ATCL AC

Distinction Distinction

Summer Summer

2023 2023

Hayhurst Doo Chan Diamond Millington Millington Korczagin Petersen Jennings

Anna Edward Dylan Maria Ciara Ciara Pawel Jan-Christian Bryn

Singing Piano Singing Singing Violin Singing Trumpet Clarinet Jazz Saxophone

8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8

Distinction Fail Distinction Merit Merit Distinction Distinction Merit Merit

Lent Lent Summer Summer Summer Summer Summer Summer Summer

2023 2023 2023 2023 2023 2023 2023 2023 2023

de Pelet

Emma

Singing

7

Distinction

Summer

2023

Krishan Tang

Maya Hoi Ling

Piano Singing

6 6

Pass Merit

Lent Summer

2023 2023

Rees-Davies Hayhurst Penny Ko

Ottilie Harvey Isabelle Cheuk Yan (Kristy)

Singing Singing Singing Organ

5 5 5 5

Distinction Pass Pass Distinction

Lent Lent Summer Summer

2023 2023 2023 2023

Kellock Ryle Ayot Tukdel Obinna-Onunkwo de Pelet Onunkwo

Sofia Sherine Nwando Alexander Awele

Piano Singing Singing Trumpet Piano

4 4 4 4 4

Pass Merit Merit Merit Pass

Lent Summer Summer Summer Summer

2023 2023 2023 2023 2023

d’Estampes Vallancey Chan Rothwell Mitton Gogh

Louis Daphne Phoebe-Aurelia Leo Henry

Cornet Flute Violin Piano Alto Saxophone

3 3 3 3 3

Pass Pass Pass Pass Merit

Michaelmas 2022 Lent 2023 Lent 2023 Lent 2023 Summer 2023

Gogh

Henry

Saxophone

2

Distinction

Michaelmas 2022

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LIBRARY Before he left the School in April, I asked Head of Classics, John Storey, to check a translation for me.

I was poised to press ‘buy’ on an online purchase, a poster with a quote from Cicero. I am glad I asked an expert who gave me his own, more nuanced translation.

If you have a garden in your library, nothing will be missing Now as it happens, we do have a garden in the Petre Library, thanks to Senior Science Technician Merille Ryder who carved out an old biology book and planted succulents in a bed of gravel.

Coincidentally, she gave me the book-garden not long after Rev Storey had translated Cicero.

Everything came together nicely and delivered a metaphor for this report.

Throughout the year, the library team is looking for ways to grow reading for pleasure. Every new boarder, for instance, finds a library book at their bedside with a special library bookmark inside. Later in the Michaelmas Term our youngest pupils are offered their choice from a selection

of seventeen new titles as part of the Bookbuzz initiative; they receive their books at a special presentation tea usually right at the end of term, so they get a book from us for Christmas. We always celebrate World Book Day in March, this year with The Body in the Library Murder Mystery. In 2023 we marked International Women’s Day with talks around the theme Girl Reading from our resident Art Historian, Dr Sanders, and from me.

Three authors visited us, each spellbinding in their own way. Bali Rai, author of (un)arranged marriage and The Royal Rebel spoke to Third Form and led a session for the staff as part of their professional development. All teachers are involved in creating a positive reading culture at Downside. Later in the term, top children’s thriller writer Fleur Hitchcock revealed her writing process at a fascinating talk for First Form and Second Form pupils and their parents. In the Summer Term, Everest-conqueror, filmmaker, and author Matt Dickinson returned to Downside to inspire Fourth Form pupils to go beyond their comfort zone.

This year Makuo Ugwuoke became the first Downside Book Champion with finalists Alice Moorhouse, Joe Thomas and Casilda Roy Banus pushing him hard. This event, open to pupils from First Form to Third Form and organised with the help of Mr Stowell, celebrates books and develops public speaking skills. Makuo spoke about Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe in the qualifying round and Anthony Horowitz’s spy novel Stormbreaker in

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the final. He received his trophy at Prize Day. Nurturing independent learning is a key element of our work and the resources in the library play a huge part. Through the library website, pupils have access to any of the 15,000 books in our collection and, for the first time this year, to digital magazines and newspapers. Our borrowing tendrils have spread still wider through our membership of SWRLS (South West Regional Libraries Scheme) giving the possibility of inter-library loans from universities in the region. We have also worked with Dr Tapia to present online events for academic scholars and pupils interested in topics such as a slave rebellion, prime numbers and exploring a musical history of Modern Black Britain.

Sometimes activities self-seed in the library and flourish. This year we have again hosted chess tournaments and a roleplay card game club has become established, run by pupils for pupils. We are looking to sow leadership opportunities wherever we can. We have a team of library prefects and Duke of Edinburgh volunteers who have created their own page on the library website and helped to make the library more sustainable through the

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re-use of plastic book jackets.

The library itself has grown with over a hundred gorgeous new books. As I often tell pupils, one of the best bits of my job is opening a box of new books and inhaling their scent which brings a Chinese saying to mind, ‘A book is like a garden carried in the pocket.’ Let’s end there.

Janet Craig Librarian

Downside has taught me to try new things and how to interact with my peers.

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SPORT

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SPORT REVIEW It has been another action-packed year of sport at Downside. Involvement in physical activity and sport remains central to daily life at the School, with astonishingly high participation across all year groups demonstrating that pupils value the provision on offer, set themselves and their peer’s high standards and expect to improve because of their efforts. As the individual reports will evidence, enjoyment, development and performance are achievable within a culture which prioritises these aspects in that order. Sport can often be represented best by the image of an iceberg.

Whilst ‘success’ may be the visible 10% of the structure which we can see clearly, what is not visible beneath the surface of the water is the ‘hard work’, ‘persistence’, ‘rejections’, ‘sacrifices’, ‘discipline’, ‘criticism’, ‘doubts’, ‘failures’ and ‘risks’ which make up the hidden 90%. Our sporting culture supports girls and boys of all age and ability to recognise the value of this 90%, and to always work with a positive attitude and maximum personal/collective effort to ensure that they give themselves the best possible chance of realising success – in whatever form it may come.

There is a sign on the wall of the strength & conditioning suite which simply states, “if your coach has to track you down for you to put the work in, don’t be surprised when you get replaced by someone who tracks your coach down looking for work”. This is a message which we believe pupils can transfer to all aspects of their personal journey, both during their time at the School and beyond. The positive relationships established between pupils and their sports coaches aim to support pupils throughout their sporting journey in the School. Alongside the timetabled Games sessions every week, there are numerous extra-curricular training opportunities before School, during lunch breaks and in the evenings, and it is so rewarding to see such high pupil engagement and participation in these sessions.

The achievements of present and past pupils need to be acknowledged, as there have been some exceptional representative selections

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The achievements of present and past pupils need to be acknowledged, as there have been some exceptional representative selections this year. this year. Thirteen pupils were selected in their respective Junior Academy Centres for Avon County Hockey. Oscar Tagent, Oliver BaytunCoward (U14), Louis D’Estampes Vallancey, Finlay Baker, Cameron Colbourne, Rupert Tagent, Harry Garrett (U15), Olivia Pike, Ottilie Rees-Davies, Molly Jenkins, Emma de Pelet (U15), Zara Bellord (U16) and Casper Hayhurst (U16). Rosie Rooney (European Junior Golf Championships), Josh Gathungu, Enzo Blackmore (Bath Rugby U15), Charlie Hayhurst (Somerset County Rugby U18), Luke McGarry (Bath Rugby U18), Ivor Jones (England Lambs Rugby U18) and Louis D’Estampes Vallancey (National Schools Cross Country Championships) all excelled in sport beyond the School as well.

Max Surry (R22) was selected at loosehead prop for Scotland against England in the U20 6Nations tournament at the Twickenham Stoop in February. Kofi Barton-Byfield (B21) was selected on the wing to play for England Students against France following some outstanding individual contributions for his Exeter University side, which won the BUCS rugby championship for the second consecutive year. Kofi also then spent July and August 2023 completing preseason training with the Exeter Chiefs 1st team squad. This was replicated by Khalik Akenzua Al-Kareem (S22) who following an outstanding debut season at Leeds Beckett University returned to Bath Rugby as a Senior Academy Scholar and completed a gruelling preseason at Farleigh House alongside the Bath 1st team squad. We look forward to following these former pupils as they continue their performance

journey in sport beyond School.

Just as it did with these former pupils during their time at the School, our Athlete Development Programme (ADP) offers a personalised programme of support for our Sports Scholars and this year the provision was improved further with the introduction of a new enrichment package. In the Michaelmas Term, we partnered with an external provider to deliver a series of online presentations which recognised that sports scholars are always looking for new ways to maximise their training knowledge and capacity to help them on their journeys as young aspiring athletes. There were a range of speakers on different topics, sharing their own athletic journey and lessons that they had learned to provide a combination of information and inspiration.

In the Lent Term our ADP Sport Scholars all experienced a ‘Sport Science Support in Action’ visit to the University of Bath. Observing and undertaking various fitness test protocols in either the high-performance laboratory or field-based environment, the pupils gained an insight into the science behind performance sport.

This year we welcomed Mr Max Gauntlett from Millfield School as our new Rugby Development Lead & Coach and Ms Lisa Packer from Brighton College as our new Netball Development Lead & Coach. Both colleagues swiftly settled into their roles with great success, as their respective reports will indicate. I am delighted that both will be taking on Pastoral roles next year as Assistant HsM in Powell and Isabella House respectively, alongside Mr Conor O’Rourke (Tennis Development Lead & Coach) who will become the new Assistant HsM in Barlow House.

In September we welcomed a new team of Resident Sport Assistants, with Finlay Boarder (Rugby), Richard Staines (Strength & Conditioning/ Cricket) and Valeria Goryun (Tennis) joining the Sports Department. Alongside Becky Culverwell, they were instrumental in ensuring that the coaching provision and wider support for pupils was of the highest quality it could be. Richard

Staines will remain at Downside next year, but Becky leaves us after two extraordinary years of passion, energy, and enthusiasm to take up a trainee PE teacher position at Glenalmond College in Scotland. Finlay has accepted a role as a sports coach & teaching assistant at Christ Church Cathedral School in Oxford, and Valeria returns to complete the final year of her undergraduate studies at Loughborough University. We thank them all for what they have contributed to our School and wish them every success with their future careers. Mr Harry Brooking has been our Hockey Development Lead & Coach since 2021 but stepped down from this role at the end of the year to pursue a new career in recruitment services. We thank him for all that he has contributed to the sport of hockey over the last two years and wish him every success as he embarks on this exciting new path. Mr Rory Worsman (Rugby, Hockey & Tennis), Mr John Storey (Cross Country), Mr Darren Nichols (Football) and Miss Bethany Ackerley (Swimming) have also moved to new roles, and I would like to thank them all for their generous and passionate support of sport during their time at Downside.

The pace of redevelopment and enhancement of sports facilities across the School has been equally exciting. Thanks to the generosity of the Downside Wanderers CC we installed new covers and boundary ropes for the 1st XI square this summer. Our tennis and netball players were thrilled when we opened the newly resurfaced Summer Leaze courts in April and these sports will receive further enhancement when VerdeRecreo complete the resurfacing on the larger Wansbury courts over the summer break – providing superb new hard-court facilities for five netball and seven tennis courts. If you are reading this section and thinking that it is about time you visited the School to support our sports teams you would be most welcome and I look forward to seeing you soon.

Richard Jones Director of Sport

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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.

MICHAELMAS TERM 2022 GIRLS’ HOCKEY Caps Colours U13 S. Ayot Tukdel M. Randall O. Rickards A. Storey

BOYS’ RUGBY Caps U13

Colours O. Bellord M. Che

U15

M. Jenkins E. De Pelet L. Smellie C. Raper

O. Pike O. Rees-Davies

U14

C. Colbourne

F. Baker L. D’Estampes Vallancey O. Greensmith P. Hidalgo Munoz-Pan T. Oriel Munoz Rojas

1st XI

M. Strauss A. Hayhurst A. Walker O. Mossman S. Vaux

L. Akenzua Al-Kareem B. Garrett L-R. Hall V. Lesault K. Pughe-Morgan I. Rickards L. Vaux

U15

H. Jones E. Blackmore A. Wong

J. Gathungu A. Kwan B. Priscott

2nd XV G. Buhagiar E. Howlett 1st XV

MIXED BADMINTON Caps U18 M. Diamond

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Colours M. Su L. Tang

C. Boarder I. Jones A. Smellie M. Stanislas O. Webb

J. Rowell K. Uebing A. Wong S. Baker A. De Abiega Franyutti C. Hayhurst L. McGarry D. Makaza

LENT TERM 2023 GIRLS’ NETBALL Caps U13 O. Rickards (1F & M. Randall 2F) U14 (3F)

BOYS’ HOCKEY Colours Caps A. Storey U13 M. Onyejindu-Okonji (1F & 2F)

O. Pike

U15 (4F)

2nd VII

B. Garrett E. Jenkins S. Vaux

1st VII

L. Akenzua Al-Kareem O. Mossman A. Hayhurst V. Lesault M. Strauss A. Walker

CROSS COUNTRY Caps Junior Girls (1/2F)

O. Rees-Davies U14 S. Betancourt Pulido (3F)

C. Colbourne L. D’Estampes Vallancey O. Greensmith F. Baker

C. Raper E. de Pelet P. Garcia M. Jenkins L. Smellie G. Lesault J. Keyte L.-R. Hall

R. Tagent H. Garrett H. Jones

Colours A. Errington

Junior Boys (1/2F)

Intermediate L. D’Estampes Boys Vallancey (3/4F)

O. Garrett O. Bellord G. Rodriguez-Fraile Pelayo H. Garrett F. Mathew C. Peterson

BASKETBALL 1st Team

Colours J. Thomas O. Bellord O. Garrett

U15 (4F)

2nd XI

I. Jones T. Pike

G. Buhagiar

1st XI

A. Smellie I. Boas Syed J. Last-Sutton M. Stanislas

F. Podesta O. Smellie S. Baker O. Webb K. Uebing

FOOTBALL Caps 1st XI P. Puente Hervella E. Rodriguez Chadwick

2nd X

Colours A. De Abiega Franyutti T. Jones S. Mitton Y. Melotte V. Tickell R. Ingram D. Manso Duffy J. Rowell

TABLE TENNIS Colours CJ. Rapoo O. Yeung A. Kwan

1st Team

Colours D. Chan M. Diamond M. Liu R. Ng

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SUMMER TERM 2023 GIRLS’ CRICKET Caps U18

GIRLS’ TENNIS Caps U13 C. Roy Banus

Colours E. Stanislas

Colours

U15 S. Betancourt Pulido C. Raper

S. Escobar Leano O. Rees-Davies O. Pike

U18 A. Hayhurst O. Mossman J. Keyte A. Cotta Fernandez-Tagle I. Rickards

A. Majendie M. Krishan

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BOYS’ CRICKET Caps U13

Colours O. Bellord O. Tagent

U14

O. Rooney F. Baker

U15

B. Priscott

U18 J. Last-Sutton L. Matthews M. Stanislas A. Smellie

I. Jones

BOYS’ TENNIS Caps U18 Y. Melotte F. Trounce

Colours J. D’Estampes Vallancey O. D’Estampes Vallancey F. D’Estampes Vallancey

THE TEAMS FOOTBALL 1ST XI I. Akanior, A. De Abiega Franyutti, J. Hui, R. Ingram, T. Jones, J. Ladipo, S. Mitton, Y. Melotte, J. Moorley Cooper, F. Prinz Zu Sayn-Wittigensetien-Berlebrug, J. Peterson, P. Puente Hervella, E. Rodrigues Chadwick, V. Tickell

2ND XI J. Alique Ortiz, V. Bennett, J. Burton, J. D’Estampes Vallancey, O. D’Estampes Vallancey, F. D’Estampes Vallancey, A. Cham, K. Cheng, P. Colgan, C. Eisenkopf, D. Flynn, J, Hofman, C. Joy, D. Makaza, D. Manso Duffy, I. Ortuzar, K. O’Kane, J. Rowell, C. Tari Carderera, G. van der Strate Waillet, M. Watts

NETBALL 1ST TEAM L. Akenzua Al-Kareem, Z. Bellord, A. Hayhurst, V. Lesault, O. Mossman, L. Norris, K. Pughe-Morgan, I. Rickards, E. Stanislas, M. Strauss, A. Walker

2ND TEAM C. Blackmore, S. Collier, B. Garrett, L. Hall, E. Jenkins, J. Keyte, C. Melotte, L. Vaux, S. Vaux

3RD TEAM C. Bayntun-Coward, P. Bowman, K. Campbell Meehan, A. Cotta Fernandez-Tagle, E. Eigbefoh, M. Galilea, O. Malek, M. Martin, I. Preston, J. Yakubu Samaila, S. Ziegler

4TH TEAM C. Aldinger, P. Biasco Cabelloa, M. Bremer, M. Esteva Munoz, S. Horskotte, I. Macmillian, H. Tang, E. Vial Valdes, J. Weatherhead, I, Whately

U15A TEAM E. de Pelet, M. Jenkins, L. Macmillan, A. ObinnaOnunkwo, O. Pike, C. Raper, O, Rees-Davies, R. Rooney, L. Smellie

U15B TEAM S. Betancourt Pulido, A. Carrick-Buchanan, L. Carter, F. Dolman, E. Errington, E. Keyte, G. Lesault, H. Makaza, A. Mendizabal De Barros, A. Ridge

U15C TEAM H. Bennett, A. Conway, M. De La Cierva, B. Healy, J. Hofman, I. Frances, I. Lopez Herbach, C. Martinez De Campos Arnus, A Murphy, I. Penny

U15D TEAM W. Chan, S. Escobar Leano, M. Fuenzalida Schenke, P. Garcia, L. Garrido Panero, I. Hathaway, M. Marin Herrera, M. Molerers Bel, E. Somtochi, E. Stanford

U15E TEAM M. Arismendi Grandon, L. Awoleke, J. Hall, S. Kaihara, C. Lai, A. Moorhouse, L. O’Kane, E. Pickett, A-M. Potter, G. Reynolds, P-A, Rothwell, R. Torday, Y. Wah, A. Wu, N. Wyganowska

U13A TEAM E. Ayot Tukdel, C. Barquin Mendiri, S, Kellock Ryle, M. Onyejindu-Okonji, S. Perkins, M. Randall, O. Rickards, A. Storey

U13B TEAM N. Aldrete Leano, D. Anulal, I. Brennan, A. Errington, N. Obinna-Onunkwo, C. Roy Banus, D. Thomas

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THE TEAMS U13C TEAM I. Aguilar Pardo, R. Awoleke, S. De La Fuente Ruiz, F. Neave, C. Roy Banus, M. Silva Munoz Pan, K. Spurling, L. Wyganowska

CROSS COUNTRY JUNIOR (FIRST AND SECOND FORM) O. Bellord, C. Che, A. Errington, O. Garrett

INTERMEDIATE (THIRD AND FOURTH FORM) F. Baker, L. D’Estampes Vallancey, H. Garrett, O. Greensmith, F. Mathew, C. Peterson, G. RodriguezFraile Pelayo

SENIOR (FIFTH AND SIXTH FORM) P. Korczagin, M. Krishan, G. Moorhouse, J. Suchan

BASKETBALL C. Joy, A. Kwan, M. Liu, D. Makaza, C. Rapoo, P. Puente Hervella, C. Tari Carderera, B. Tsang, A. Wong, H. Wong, O. Yeung

GIRLS’ TENNIS U18 1ST TEAM A. Cotta Fernandez-Tagle, A. Hayhurst, J. Keyte, O. Mossman, A. Majendie, I. Rickards

U18 2ND TEAM Z. Bellord, S. Betancourt Pulido, M. Krishan, L. Norris, C. Raper, S. Vaux

U15 1ST TEAM S. Betancourt Pulido, F. Dolman, S. Escobar Leano, C. Martinez De Campos Arnus, O. Pike, C. Raper, O. Rees-Davies

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U15 2ND TEAM E. De Pelet, E. Errington, E. Keyte, J. Hoffman, L. MacMillan, L. Smellie

U14 1ST TEAM H. Bennett, A. Colgan, B. Healy, H. Makaza, A. Mendizabal De Barros

U13 1ST TEAM I. Aguilar Pardo, N. Aldrete Leano, C. Barquin Mendiri, I. Noirot-Nerin, Ca. Roy Banus, Cl. Roy Banus

U13 2ND TEAM E. Ayot Tukdel, S. De La Fuente Ruiz, A. Errington, M. Randall, M. Silva Munoz Pan, D. Thomas

BOYS’ TENNIS U18 1ST TEAM A. De Abiega Franyutti, F. D’Estampes Vallancey, J. D’Estampes Vallancey, O. D’Estampes Vallencey, D. Flynn, O. Flynn, Y. Melotte, F. Trounce

BOYS’ CRICKET U13A G. Barquin Mendiri, O. Bayntun-Coward, O. Bellord, O. Garrett, B. Gomez-Palomar, O. Hayhurst, Q. Johnson, X. Mossman, G. Rodriguez-Fraile Pelayo, K. Ryan, O. Tagent

U14A F. Baker, Y. K. Chan, C. Colbourne, L. D’Estampes Vallancey, O. Greensmith, P. Hidalgo Munoz-Pan, T. Oriol Munoz Rojas, I. Quaife, O. Rooney, J. Scanlan, B. Silva Munoz Pan

U15A E. Blackmore, C. Dalgliesh, H. Garrett, J. Gathungu, H. Jones, G Marinus, F. Mathew, B. Priscott, E. Stanislas, R. Tagent, T. H. Tsang, J. Uhrmacher

1ST TEAM S. Baker, J. Freely, C. Hayhurst, Z. Healey, I. Jones, T. Jones, J. Last-Sutton, L. Matthews, T. Pike, B. Priscott, A. Smellie, M. Stanislas

GIRLS’ CRICKET 1ST TEAM S. Collier, E. De Pelet, Garrett, E-R Hall, M. Krishan, M. Martin, K. Pughe-Morgan, I. Rickards, E. Stanislas, R. Rooney, L. Vaux

ATHLETICS FIRST & SECOND FORM GIRLS R. Awoleke, E. Ayot Tukdel, I. Brennan, S. De La Fuente, A. Errington, S. Kellock Ryle, I. Noirot-Nerin, S. Perkins, M. Randall, O. Rickards, C. Roy Banus, A. Storey, D. Thomas

FIRST & SECOND FORM BOYS O. Bayntun Cowards, O. Bellord, C. Che, R. Ezeh, G. Farah, B. Gomez Palomar, O. Hayhurst, X. Mossman, S. Onyejindu-Okonji, G. Rodriguez-Fraile Pelayo, O. Rooney, K. Ryan, O. Tagent, H. Weatherill

THIRD FORM GIRLS G. Lesault, O. Rees-Davies

FIFTH & SIXTH FORM BOYS K. Kema, J. O’Keeffe.

TABLE TENNIS A. Chan, D. Chan (Fifth Form), D. Chan (Upper Sixth), E. Chan, K. Cheng, G. Chi, M. Diamond, K. Ko, P. Lau, M. Liu, R. Ng, J. Wu

GIRLS’ HOCKEY 1ST XI L. Akenzua Al-Kareem, I. Rickards, S. Vaux, O. Mossman, A. Walker, A. Hayhurst, M. Strauss B. Garrett, K. Pughe-Morgan, R. Morling-Ritchie, L. Vaux , V. Lesault, E. Jenkins, Z. Bellord, L. Norris, C. Blackmore, A. Majendie, M. Jenkins, C. Raper

2ND XI E. Stanislas, C. Melotte, I. Preston, E. Macmillan S. Collier, J. Keyte, J. Yakubu Samaila, K. Campbell Meehan, M. Krishan, C. Aldinger, M. Galilea, A. Cotta Fernandez-Tagle, S. Ziegler, M. Bremer, E. Vial Valdes V. Lesault, P. Bowman, I. Whately, M. Martin, P. Blasco Cabello, O. Malek

U15A O. Rees-Davies, B. Healy, A. Murphy, A. Ridge, L. Carter, E. Keyte, L. Macmillan, E. de Pelet, O. Pike, L. Smellie, F. Dolman, M. Jenkins, C. Raper, A. Mendizabal De Barros, A. Moorhouse, E. Errington, A. Carrick-Buchanan, Z. Potter, G. Lesault, R. Rooney, A. Obinna-Onunkwo

THIRD & FOURTH FORM BOYS F. Baker, E. Blackmore, C. Colbourne, L. D’Estampes Vallancey, F. De La Fuente, H. Garrett, J. Gathungu, O. Greensmith, H. Jones, A. Kwan, F. Mathew, C. Peterson, J. Roesler, R. Tagent, A. Wong The Raven 2023 155

THE TEAMS U15B J. Hall, A. Conway, L. Garrido Panero, H. Makaza, I. Hathaway, G. Lesault, E. Stanford, J. Hofman, F. Ingram, A. Obinna- Onunkwo, L. O’Kane, S. Betancourt Pulido, P. Garcia, A. Carrick-Buchanan, R. Rooney, E. Errington, B. Lai, D. Chan, I. Penny, M. De La Cierva, P. Rothwell, H. Bennett, M. Marin Herrera, A. Mendizabal De Barros, C. Martinez De Campos Arnus

U13A O. Rickards, A. Storey, S. Ayot Tukdel, A. Errington, B. Brennan, V. Buhagiar, S. Perkins, S. Kellock Ryle, C. Barquin Mendiri, S. Onyejindu-Okonji, M. Randall, C. Roy Banus

U13B F. Neave, K. Spurling, D. Anulal, L. Wyganowska, M. Silva Munoz Pan, D. Thomas, I. Aguilar Pardo, R. Awoleke, S. De La Fuente Ruiz, N. ObinnaOnunkwo, C. Roy Banus, N. Aldrete Leano

BOYS’ HOCKEY 1ST XI J. O’Keeffe, K. Uebing, L. Marinus, L.Matthews, M. Stanislas, O. Smellie, O. Webb, S. Baker, T. Pike, A. Rose, A. Smellie (c), B. Jackson, C. Hayhurst, C. Pike, F. Podesta, G. Marinus, J. Freely, J. Last-Sutton (vc), I. Boas-Syed (vc)

2ND XI A. Chan, A. de Pelet, A. Di Pietrantonio, A. Henson, A. Wong, C. Shaw, D. Arnold, D. Lirola Munoz, E. Howlett, F. Trounce, G. Buhagiar, H. Clark, H. Hayhurst, H. Tuchenhagen, I. Jones, J.Bennett, J. McGarry, K. Kema, L. Mateo Joy, N. Danhawoor, O. Flynn, R. Sharifi, T. Pike, Z. Healey

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U15A A. Kwan, B. Priscott, B. Silva Munoz Pan, C. Colbourne, C. Dalgliesh, C. Petersen, E.Blackmore, F. Baker, F. Mathew, H. Garrett, H. Jones, I. Quaife, J. Gathungu, J. Uhrmacher, L. D’Estampes Vallancey, L. Mitton, O. Greensmith, R. Tagent

U15B A. Herrando Crespo, A. Karl, A. Kwan, B. Priscott, B. Solis Loyola, B. Tsang, B.Strazza Hurtado, E. Cheung E. Millington, F. Campbell Meehan, F. De La Fuente Ruiz, H. Bonneau, H. Gogh, J. Mason-Carney, J. Scanlan, J. Tisne Prat, N. Jenkins, P. Benitez Trevino, P. Hidalgo Munoz-Pan, R. Patch, S. Capellino, S. Dauden Vidal, S. Michaels, T. Oriol Munoz Rojas, W. Chong, Z. Kwan

U14A A. Buczacki, A. Herrando Crespo, A. Mato Comin, B.Silva Munoz Pan, C. Chan, C. Colbourne, E. Cheung, F. Baker, F. De La Fuente Ruiz, I. Quaife, J. Scanlan, J. Yakubu Samaila, L. D’Estampes Vallancey, L. Mitton, N. Mier Lamorena, O. Greensmith, P. Hidalgo Munoz-Pan, S. Dauden Vidal, T. Oriol Munoz Rojas, Z. Kwan

U13A B.Tong, G. Rodriguez-Fraile Pelayo, K. Ryan, O. Bayntun-Coward, O. Bellord, O. Rooney, O. Tagent, O.Garrett, O.Hayhurst, S. Onyejindu-Okonji, X. Mossman

U13B B. Gomez Palomar, C. Che, E. Lai, G. Barquin Mendiri, G. Rodriguez-Fraile Pelayo, J. Thomas, K. Ryan, L. Joy, Q. Johnson, R. Ezeh, S. OnyejinduOkonji

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

ATHLETICS

The Summer Term is increasingly congested - the shortest of all three terms in the academic year, it is nevertheless packed with sporting opportunities for our pupils alongside the usual array of public examinations and internal assessments.

It is with this backdrop that another competitive athletics season got underway. Returning after a three weak Easter break, the Mendip District School Athletics championships on Wednesday 3rd May at Millfield would offer our athletes the usual opportunity to get the season underway and a chance to qualify for the County event in June.

Lots of promising early season times and distances were recorded across the usual array of track & field disciplines, with Kaosi Kema (Fifth Form Roberts) and Jamie O’Keeffe (Lower Sixth Form Roberts) repeating their success in 2022 by once again achieving qualification in the U16 and U18 boys 100m, with times of 12.3 secs and 12.0 secs respectively. Other notable results were Orson Greensmith (Third Form Roberts) with 9m56 in the Shot Put and 4m52 in Long Jump and Ottilie Rees-Davies (Third Form Isabella) with 33.8 secs in the 200m and 1m20 in the High Jump.

Most pupils participate in athletics alongside the other summer sports of tennis or cricket, particularly in the First to Fourth Form. Therefore, attendance at weekly afterschool training sessions affords athletes the opportunity to improve technical and physical components of performance.

One of the highlights of the School athletics season was therefore the English Schools Athletics Association ‘Schools Cup’ on Wednesday 17th May – a combined team event for First and Second Form and Third and Fourth Form pupils.

Every athlete in the team must perform in two events, from one track, one field or one relay event, scoring from a published table determining points based on distance or time achieved, with the highest scoring school from each event proceeding to regional and national finals. Selection is always a

logistical headache and often athletes compete in a second event that they may not particularly regard as their best for the benefit of the team overall.

It was therefore an intrepid selection of 42 girls and boys who represented Downside in this year’s event against schools including Millfield, Holyrood Academy, Brymore Academy, King’s Bruton and King’s of Wessex Academy. It is fair to say that the Downside pupils were outstanding on the day, supporting each other loudly in every event and performing beyond expectation.

The First and Second Form Girls squad recorded 251 points and were runners up in their category behind Millfield Prep, with standout performances including Elizabeth Ayot Tukdel (100m & Shot Put), Abi Storey (800m & Long Jump), Amelie Errington (1500m & Javelin), Megan Randall (Discus & Relay) and Ines Noirot-Nerin (200m & Discus).

The First and Second Form Boys squad recorded 207 points and were third in their category, with some equally standout performances including Oscar Rooney (800m & Discus), Oliver Bellord (800m & Javelin). Stephen OnyejinduOkonji (Shot Put & 200m), Kasper Ryan (300m & Long Jump) and Gonzalo Rodriguez-Fraile Pelayo (300m & Long Jump).

The Third and Fourth Form Boys squad recorded 318 points but could only finish third in their category, behind two strong teams from Millfield and King’s Bruton. Again, there were some excellent performances across the squad, but our highest scoring athletes included Josh Gathungu (100m & Triple Jump), Enzo Blackmore (200m & Long Jump), Louis D’Estampes Vallancey (Hurdles & Long Jump), Orson Greensmith (300m & Shot Put), Francis Mathew (800m & Discus), Harry Garrett (1500m & Relay) and Conrad Peterson (800m & High Jump). It was another superb day of team athletics and one which the participants can look forward to next year.

The final event of the season was the Somerset

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Schools Championships in Yeovil on Saturday 10th June. Amid their public examinations and internal assessments, Kaosi and Jamie represented Mendip Schools superbly at this County event in the U18 100m. Unfortunately, neither achieved selection for the Somerset squad which would travel to Birmingham for the English Schools Athletics Championships later in June, but both will be eligible to return in 2024 and attempt to make the step to the next level in their event – as will many of our other athletes who aspire to perform at the highest level.

Thanks goes to Ms Packer, Mr Hamilton, Mrs Seggie, Mr Edge, Miss Goryun and Mr Boarder for their support of athletics training sessions and competitions throughout the Term. I hope everyone enjoyed the short but eventful season as much as I did!

Richard Jones Director of Sport

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BADMINTON

It was a privilege to be the badminton captain this Michaelmas Term in my final year in Downside.

Overall, it has been a successful and exciting term of badminton. Our now traditional fixtures against Sherborne and King’s Bruton were very successful both home and away, winning overall.

We were strong in our doubles matches, showing great teamwork between the pairs while the singles matches proved more difficult when against Sherborne School. We then redirected our training to focus more on singles gameplay, serves, tactics and agility around the court. The fixtures have been very inclusive with all squad members having had the chance to represent the teams. There have been some fabulous matches and tense rallies throughout all the fixtures.

Maria Diamond (Upper Sixth Form) Captain It has been a pleasure for me to serve as the vice-captain and I would like to express my gratitude to our captain, Maria Diamond, for her exceptional leadership and her chess like approach to the game in her final year. We all wish her the best of luck in her future endeavours. The passion and enthusiasm displayed by the all the squad members was inspiring. Many pupils attended the badminton club in addition to the scheduled games periods, and everyone made an effort to maximize their playing time. The impact of badminton on our pupils has been remarkable. With increased investment of time and effort, we have witnessed everyone’s transformation over the course of the term. Notably, Ryan Yuen and Luis Tang, our Upper Sixth pupils, have made significant progress and we wish them the best of luck as they move on from School. Although most Lower Formers were unable to join our team games sessions, we were fortunate to have a talented badminton player, Emile Burin des Roziers, (Fourth Form) join us for fixtures. We greatly appreciate the effort he has put into our team and wish him all the best as he returns home to complete his education.

We would like to extend our gratitude to our

coach Mr. Potter for his enthusiasm, guidance and support throughout the season. Together, we have created a memorable and thriving badminton community within Downside. It has been a positive, successful, and enjoyable term for badminton, and we look forward to next year.

Max Su (Fifth Form) Vice Captain MIXED-U18A FIXTURE LIST 2022/23 Time/Date 14:30 Sat 17 Sep 22 Venue Home | Ortuzar Sports Hall Opponent Sherborne School Boys-U18A Result Won Type Friendly Time/Date Venue Opponent Result Type

14:00 Sat 01 Oct 22 Home | Ortuzar Sports Hall King’s School Bruton Won Friendly

Time/Date Venue Opponent Result Type

14:00 Sun 09 Oct 22 Home | Main School Wells Cathedral School Postponed Friendly

Time/Date Venue Opponent Result Type

14:00 Sat 05 Nov 22 Away | Main School King’s School Bruton Won Friendly

Time/Date Venue Opponent Result Type

14:00 Sun 20 Nov 22 Away | Main School Wells Cathedral School Postponed Friendly

Time/Date Venue Opponent Result Type

14:30 Sat 03 Dec 22 Away | School Reception Sherborne School Boys-U18A Won Friendly

BASKETBALL

The statistics for this season will reflect that whilst nine fixtures were played only one of these (the last of the season) was a victory! What the stats will also reveal is that in three games the margin of loss was less than three points, and that over the course of the season the Team developed into a hugely competitive group of players which entertained large and enthusiastic crowds for home games in the Ortuzar Sports Hall.

What the stats do not reveal is that this was the first season Downside had ever employed a specialist Basketball Coach. Mr Adam Storey was recruited from Trowbridge Hawks Basketball Club and under his direction the Team trained every Friday evening and Sunday afternoon throughout the Lent Term. This structure, direction and team cohesion saw a transformation over the season, with developmental progressions in offense and defense helping each player to perform better and enjoy their play more.

Wycliffe College, Wells Cathedral School, Clifton College and Trowbridge Hawks provided home and away fixtures alongside a trip to Marlborough College. Pedro Puente Hervella was the only Upper Sixth player in the Team and we wish him all the best for his future. He will have learned a great deal about the intricacies of basketball officiating and that much to his confusion this is not a contact sport! What is particularly encouraging is that of the players returning next season, CJ, Ormond, Clovis, Max and Charlie will be moving into the Upper Sixth, but Alva, Billy, Aiden and Hanson will only be in the Fifth Form. They added so much to the team performances this season as Fourth Form pupils, often playing against boys three-four years older: says a lot about their passion and skill level.

Colours were awarded to CJ and Ormond for their co-captaincy and to Alva for his excellent on court contributions and free scoring attacking play throughout the season.

Thanks to the efforts of ‘Coach’ Storey (not to be confused with Mr Storey, Smythe HsM) and the

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commitment of the Team themselves. Basketball is now a popular team sport at Downside and those interested in playing can look to the future with real optimism. Boys and girls of all ages are welcome to training and we look forward to welcoming new players to the Team next season and to continuing to provide a first-class environment to play, learn and perform – not to mention entertain the large crowds which by now have come to appreciate even more the sporting contests they enjoyed on a Thursday or Friday evening in the Sports Hall – accompanied by various refreshments stands which raised hundreds of pounds for local charities.

Richard Jones Director of Sport

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CRICKET

As the Summer Term at Downside comes to an end, it is time to look back and reflect on what has been a successful 2023 cricket season. Despite a shaky start for all schools, with so much rainfall at the end of April and early May, we have been very lucky with the weather since then, managing to complete every Saturday block fixture. A huge reason for this, is the generosity of Downside Wanderers cricket club. Through a generous donation of funds raised from the Centenary Dinner held at Lords Cricket Ground, we were able to buy additional cricket covers which now protect our Ten Acres Square 1, as well of course as our wonderful main Summer Leaze 1st team square. We also installed a new boundary rope for the main square and plan to erect new

scoreboards for all three match grounds in 2024.

The Lent Term commenced with the Cricket Development Lead Mr Taylor & our specialist cricket Resident Sport Assistant Mr Staines running winter training sessions across all age groups.

These were enhanced by numerous one-to-one coaching sessions which were delivered around the timetable commitments of pupils. Mention must be made here to the many cricket playing pupils who also attended the weekly evening team net sessions after a busy day in the classroom, showing both great skill and enthusiasm. This without question provided a boost going into the Summer Term. The Lent Term also saw our U13 and U15 girls cricket teams take part in the Lady Taverners indoor competitions. The Ortuzar Sports Hall once again hosted the preliminary rounds for both age groups, welcoming Millfield, KES Bath, Hazlegrove and Kings Bruton to play. The girls thoroughly enjoyed the experiences whilst perfectly showcasing the spirit of cricket at all times. Both Downside teams had several girls new to the sport, so did brilliantly to narrowly miss out on qualification through to the finals in both age groups. We hope to go one further next year.

Downside continued to work with Somerset County Cricket Club this year, hosting a 10-week coaching programme for emerging community club players in the 9-14 age group from across Somerset, led throughout the Lent term by Mr Taylor & Mr Staines. After successfully welcoming visitors for the last few seasons, July & August 2023 will again see us hosting several more Somerset CCC games for both boys and girls up at our iconic Sheldon Pavilion. We were also thrilled to host the EPP Ladies fixture between Western Storm vs Southern Vipers in May, which saw a large crowd gather on a very hot bank holiday Monday to watch some high-class cricket being played.

There have been numerous highlights for our School teams this season. The 1st XI boys win against Wells Cathedral School on the opening Saturday got the season off to a perfect start. M. Stanislas pulled off the catch of the season, diving

at acrobatically at backward point. In our annual fixture vs Downside Wanderers, L. Matthews scored a superb 55 runs and was a proud recipient of the Gordon Hemming Trophy. It was also great to see the DWCC side packed with recent School leavers. Fourth Form boy Boris Priscott played 1st team cricket all season, which is an outstanding achievement and Second Form boy Oscar Rooney continued to impress with bat and ball playing in the age group above.

Girl’s cricket has also seen some great achievements, with Emily Stanislas playing for the U15 boys cricket team all season, regularly taking wickets, and attending senior cricket training alongside the boys. The 1st XI girls cricket team played several hard ball games which was brilliant to see - a highlight without doubt being the away victory against a strong Wells Cathedral School side. We now look forward to more girls choosing cricket as their main summer sport option in 2024 and to the further growth of the sport.

Finally, the 1st XI boys once again toured to Yorkshire and were hosted at Ampleforth College from the 22nd - 25th June, playing three days of cricket in a row. The Friday saw us play Queen Ethelburga’s College, York and Marcellin College, Melbourne in back-to-back T20’s fixtures. Saturday was a declaration game for a combined Downside and Ampleforth College ‘Benedictine X1’ against the touring Australians. In the week after losing the first Ashes Test, it was very pleasing to see the boys produce the team performance of the tour.

Toby Jones was the man of the match, with an outstanding five wicket haul for just 22 runs from seven overs to leave the visitors on 163 all out from 43 overs, which we reached in just 40 overs for the loss of five wickets to record a famous victory over a strong Australian side! The Sunday was another great day played in hot & sunny conditions and witnessed our final tour fixture vs Ampleforth College in a 30 over game. Whilst the hosts eventually reached the target of 200 runs with two overs to spare, the match will be remembered for Upper Sixth Form players Archie

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Smellie scoring a truly outstanding 103 not out in our innings - a great way for his time at Downside to come to an end and a fitting end to another great season of cricket at the School.

Alex Taylor Cricket Development Lead & Coach

CROSS COUNTRY

The cross-country season got underway in October, with the ESAA Schools Cup 1st Round being held this year at Bryanston. On a tough course against some excellent opposition, the Intermediate Boys team qualified for the SW Regional Final, which Downside would host in November. On a beautiful Autumn afternoon, the School grounds and our excellent cross-country course hosted more than 30 schools from as far away as Cornwall and Berkshire. Unfortunately, our team did not progress to the National team final, but some valuable experience was gained ahead of the main competitive season which would begin in January (with Strava apps and training plans to follow over the Christmas break!).

The Downside Trophy event on the first weekend of the Lent Term was again well attended and provided some much-needed competition practice. The District Championships at Millfield in early January was once again a hugely successful event for our cross-country runners. Congratulations were due to Ollie, Ollie, Chester, Amelie, Finlay, Louis, Harry, Francis, Orson & Gonzalo who would qualify for the Somerset Schools Championships which would be held at RNAS Merryfield near Ilminster. A bright and sunny competition afternoon in mid-January was a welcome break from the frozen ground and freezing rain which had plagued our recent training sessions. Some strong running and new season best times were achieved, with Louis the sole qualifier to represent the Somerset Schools team at the SW Regional Championships which would be in Bristol in February. A fantastic achievement.

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The twice-weekly training sessions continued throughout the Term. With some exceptional improvements and the emergence of some new talent across the School. It was a pleasure to support the development of so many in the sport – whether this was purely for personal fitness or competition training. This was especially evident in the Third and Fourth Form ‘A’ Hockey Team, who all (sometimes willingly!) completed the 2.4km course around the School grounds every week. Special mention must be given to Louis, Harry & Francis for maintaining such consistency over the season, but especially to Conrad P for his development into a runner with considerable ability. The Marden Trophy at King’s School, Bruton is part of the annual fixture calendar and sees a team of four runners complete a 2.2km course as a relay team. Given their training times this was an obvious event to enter these four boys in to – and they did not disappoint, winning their Intermediate event and claiming the trophy!

The Senior Boys team of Maks, George, Pavel and Joszko trained hard with Mr Storey and Mr Simper in their Games option over the Term, competing in the Downside, Sherborne and King’s Bruton trophy events. However, it was to be Louis’ progression from the District, County & Regional championships to then achieve selection as part of the Somerset Schools team which had qualified to compete at the ESAA National Championships in Nottingham in March which was the undoubted highlight of the season. Following Harry G in 2022, Louis represented the School with distinction at the highest level and was deservedly awarded a Cap for Cross Country at the end of term celebration assembly.

Richard Jones Director of Sport

FOOTBALL

1st XI After a slightly disappointing Michaelmas Term it was with some optimism that the 1st XI started

the Lent Term. In fact, with a whopping 39 pupils signed up for football there were plenty of new faces to choose from and plenty more for a 2nd XI. The first game was away to a Millfield ‘C’ team which we started well but the lack of stamina started to show through in the latter stages, and we went down to a 4-0 defeat. However, there were signs of good play. The vagaries of the English weather meant that our next two games had to be cancelled, and it was not until just before the half term break that we entertained Milton Abbey in the rematch from the beginning of October.

Unfortunately, some poor play by Downside and general disagreements within the Team made for an easy win for the visitors who went away with a 7-1 scoreline. During the next few training sessions, a few home truths were laid out to the team and a reminder of the expectations for everyone representing the School.

This talk seemed to have had the desired effect as the Team returned from the half term break more determined to show that they could be called a ‘team’ and would do Downside proud.

First up, a trip to Dauntsey’s School, and to this day I still cannot believe the transformation that I saw on that pitch. There was a determination from all players to get the ball. There was passing to each other, communication, encouragement, movement off the ball. Both wingers were dominating the opposition defenders, covering, and giving very good crosses to the midfielders and strikers. The first goal coming from a through ball to Vincent Tickell, who knocked around the onrushing keeper and calmly slotted into an empty net. More goals should have been forthcoming, especially from Alonso De Abiega Franyutti, who rose majestically to meet a corner only to see his effort hacked off the line. Continued pressure from Downside meant that Dauntsey’s were unable to trouble Rory Ingram in goal. It was not until the last five minutes that Dauntsey’s lost the ball from a throw in deep in our half and a through ball down the right gave Eliot Rodriguez Chadwick a clear run-on

goal and he finished with aplomb, shooting past the opposition’s keeper.

Another away game at King Edward’s, Bath followed quickly but Downside maintained the great form with a hard fought 1-0 win via a superb free kick from Vincent Tickell. We even had the luxury of a missed penalty from Alonso De Abiega Franyutti.

A third away game at Canford proved to be one of the best games I have witnessed for a while.

Absolutely determined to build on the last two matches, Downside started fast and forced an early goal for Vincent Tickell, but the best was yet to come. Eliot Rodriguez Chadwick was causing Canford problems on the right, at times they were putting three players on him, but he still managed to get past them. One such dribble ended with Eliot cutting back onto his left foot on the edge of the area and curling a shot past the static keeper into the far corner. Rory Ingram in goal was determined to maintain the clean sheets from the previous matches but that was lost after a penalty to Canford. However, within four seconds of kick off, Pedro Puente Hervella pumped the ball up field and Vincent Tickell gambled on a mistake by the keeper and slotted into an empty net. Three away matches in one week had resulted in three wins, six goals for and only two against.

With a newfound confidence we were put to our toughest test, home against a Warminster side who had not lost all year. Early on Downside were put 1-0 up with a tidy near post finish from Ikenna Akaniro off a corner by Eliot. The goal in the early stages of the game provided strong moral for the team for the remainder of the half with our defence holding out against a skilful Warminster front three. In the second half, the midfield provided opportunities for attacks on goal which finally led to a low driven strike inside the box from Vincent. Unfortunately, this setback provided the impetus for Warminster to put up a strong fight in the attack in the later stages of the second half where our defence were unfortunate to concede both a goal in open play and give away

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a penalty. In previous games Downside would have bickered and crumbled at the situation that was unfolding but not now. We knuckled down to keep our unbeaten run going with a 2-2 draw.

Next up were Sherborne Boys. We started the match in a far too complacent manner and duly went one goal down early on. Thankfully, Jonny Morley Cooper made the scores level after a miss hit through ball from Vincent. Then Vincent himself managed to get us ahead with two breakaway goals. Towards the end of the half, Sherborne pulled one back with their second attack of the half. After some hard truths during the half time talk, Downside put an extra effort in the second half leading to us having a very dominant performance with a lot of shots. The Sherborne keeper produced some fine saves but ultimately the pressure from Downside was too much and we scored four more goals including three more from Vincent and one from Alonso.

The final home game of the year was against Sexey’s School. With confidence at a high not even the pouring rain could dampen the Downside spirit. Both teams were evenly matched, but the pitch was deteriorating in the rain and a flowing game of football was becoming less common as the minutes ticked over. Yvo Melotte and Alonso scored our two goals, but the match had to be

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abandoned with Downside leading 2-1 and ten minutes remaining.

The final match of the season saw us play against the Old Gregorians away in Battersea Park, London. Due to traffic, we arrived nearly an hour late which meant very little time for warm-up. That did not seem to matter as Downside moved the ball around, using Yvo Melotte and James Hui in the channels to great effect. Although much stronger than us, the OGs were not going to easily knock us off the ball. A fine move saw Yvo slot the ball past the keeper for a deserved 1-0 lead at half time. Despite knowing that the OG team would come out fighting in the second half, Downside did not really press home their advantage. That said, a superb penalty save by Rory Ingram kept our lead until ten minutes from time when the OG team scored a deserved equaliser. The final score of 1-1 was a fair reflection on a good-natured match.

All in all, the team really improved after half term. Playing some superb football and really gelling as a team. The transformation was miraculous, but nothing more than they deserved for the hard work that they put in.

Paul Hunt Head of Chemistry and Teacher of Football

2nd XI The 2nd XI this season has been bolstered by a significant rise in interest and enthusiasm amongst many of the boys to play representative football for the School. This has in-turn brought about a strong competitive element for places within the starting XI and the wider squad, with a wide array of talents and abilities on display. As is so often the case for development squads, the dilemma of who was to play in goal often caused us difficulties throughout the season, with a variety of players stepping up to try their best at what is always a challenging but key role. The likes of Daniel Flynn, Aristo Cham, Finn O’Kane, and Kai Wai all donned the gloves and took on the responsibility of trying to help us keep a clean sheet. Something we never managed this season, but credit must go to all the aforementioned players for their efforts and contributions to the Team.

The season was to herald a rather mixed series of results but also the emergence of a new generation of genuine talent for forthcoming seasons. Fifth Form players such as Daniel Flynn and Johnny Rowell showed skills beyond their years and with the promise of some equally talented players emerging from next year’s Fifth Form, the future of both the development and 1st XI football at Downside School looks bright. Other promising talents to emerge include Jorren Hofman, Charlie Joy, Joey Burton, Donnel Makaza and Clovis Carderera, with special mention also going to their departing captain Danny Manso Duffy who led the team well despite us not always having things our own way on the pitch.

In hindsight, the second XI’s playing record of, Played 6 Won 2 Lost 4 does not do justice to how they performed with perhaps the odd exception.

In all but one of the matches, the team went in front and should really have built upon this or at the very least sought to consolidate their position.

However, the Team made errors that ended up costing goals and causing the balance of the match to swing in favour of our opponents. Our victories against both Milton Abbey School and Sherborne

School were in contrast, solid overall performances in which we controlled the passage of play and did not allow our opponents back into the game by eliminating unforced errors.

The entire team has worked hard upon both their basic skills and fitness levels throughout the season and one player who characterised this improvement more than any other was Jaime Ortiz, who was rewarded with a great half of football towards the end of the season. Other players of note include the triplets of Oscar, Fynn and Josu Vallancey who all managed to get on the score sheet this season and who all put in some fantastic levels of effort in training and games.

Their commitment to the squad was an example to everyone, with Josu finishing the season as the squad’s leading scorer.

Overall, the squad can be very proud of their achievements this season and I will watch with interest from afar to see how they develop in future seasons.

Darren Nichols 2nd XI Coach 2022-23 U18 Development Squad With a new selection of pupils choosing football for the Michaelmas Term it was with increased optimism that Downside’s development squad approached the matches this term. As well as the normal friendly games against local schools we also entered the new ISFA Shield competition and the Somerset Youth U19 cup, with a hope of playing different schools. The team also had a new strip for this term, designed by the pupils themselves, to show off in the first game at Milton Abbey.

Although the result did not go our way, the boys could be very proud of their effort and the referee commentated that we never gave up and were continually searching for a goal.

Our first win was not far away, as in our next match we managed to put eight past Clifton College. There was a slight change to a more direct style of play, using the channels and getting more

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bodies in the box. A hat trick for Vincent Tickell and a brace for Yvo Melotte along with a spectacular, and speculative, strike from halfway by Pedro Puente Hervella helped to ensure that we had one of the best games that Downside have produced for a long time.

Next up was Stonar School and the 1 – 1 score line does not reflect the dominance that Downside had, we just missed the killer instinct and couldn’t find the back of the net.

A long trip to Malvern College, for our debut in the ISFA Shield, was next up and despite losing 4 – 1, there was every reason for the Downside boys to be proud of their work ethic against a school that was obviously of a higher standard with their football. Even at 4 – 0 down we were determined to score at least one goal and Tom Pike duly delivered. We followed this with a county cup game against Holyrood Academy and hoped for a closer game. However, this game was the fourth match in 12 days, and we were unable to maintain a high enough intensity to our play and went down 3 – 0.

Next up was the annual match against the OG team and Downside were keen to match the performances with a positive result. From the first whistle we put the OG team under pressure with a more direct style of play, and Downside battled in the middle of the pitch to restrict the visitor’s time on the ball. Yvo Melotte up front latched onto a through ball from Vincent Tickell and after poking under the keeper forced the covering defender to push it over the line. Downside did not let up and kept the pressure on to reach the break 6 goals up. Pedro Puente Hervella scored a hat trick, including an outrageous looping header from the edge of the box after a corner by Tickell. But the goal of the half must be the one fashioned by Melotte, harrying the OG defender near the byline and crossing perfectly for Ayrton Rose to meet the ball on the volley. After the break, the OG team were always going to come out flying and so it turned out as the pushed forward to try and get something early on. Downside seemed to be

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asleep a little and allowed the visitors to run from deep and pinch a couple of goals. Yvo Melotte scored his second to steady the Downside ship and give us a 7-2 lead. Two more goals for the OG team were well deserved, but Downside held on for a 7-4 win and an enormous confidence boost.

After a break of a couple of weeks we returned to action with a game at Kings Bruton. A few last-minute absences meant that we had to call on the services of a few pupils from other years.

Daniel Flynn stepped into goal and performed outstandingly; he could not be faulted for either of Kings’ equalisers. Ivor Jones and Donnel Makaza were splendid in the centre of defence, no-one was going to have an easy time getting past them. But the standout player was Alonso De Abiega Franyutti who battled, dribbled and passed intelligently in the middle of the pitch and fully deserved his debut goal. The final score of 2 – 2 was a fair reflection of the game.

Overall, this term has been one of the best I have had the pleasure to witness. The squad genuinely worked for each other and the atmosphere on away trip was excellent with everyone involved in the good nature atmosphere and giving as good as they got. Rory Ingram in goal was solid and brave which gave the defence in front the confidence to push up. Pedro Puente Hervella captained with encouragement and passion. Everyone played their part, even those who made long away trips for very little game time knew that they were part of a strong team.

Mr Paul Hunt Head of Chemistry and Teacher of Football Mr Darren Nichols Head of Economics and Business Studies Assistant Football coach

GIRLS HOCKEY

After an August residential pre-season training camp at the School, in which Senior players and younger pupils were able to practise their skills and develop some early momentum, the season got underway. The opening rounds of the season saw Downside face local opposition in Monkton Combe & Wells Cathedral School. There were plenty of positives to be taken from some tough games, but it set us up well for some wins against Milton Abbey in game 3. The 1st XI were also thrilled to be able to host Craighouse School from Chile. An opposition packed full of U18 Chilean Internationals demonstrated a level our girls could aspire to, and the effort and enthusiasm shown throughout a fast and highly skilled game was outstanding. As ever our girls were excellent hosts and enjoyed the post-match entertainment and presentation with newfound friends.

Every year we welcome back familiar faces alongside some new international players.

The learning curve is always steep when you consider that these new pupils often have had no experience of playing the sport, but their effort

and willingness to learn is infectious. The leadership shown by our experienced players is hugely inspiring as they encourage and guide their new teammates. The coaching staff do an amazing job supporting individual players and collective teams.

As the weeks went by the girl’s faced opposition which included Wellington, Leweston, Dauntsey’s, Exeter, Mount Kelly, Prior Park, Blundells, Royal High School & Stonar. The 1st XI led the way, with moral boosting victories against Milton Abbey, Wells Cathedral and Leweston. It was always a pleasure to coach such a receptive and enthusiastic group of players and the progress shown over the season was exceptional. Always competitive and hardworking, their on-pitch attitude typifies Downside Sport. Over 100 girls played representative hockey fixtures across six sides, and many attended the multitude of individual and small group coaching sessions which our coaches delivered. The participation of girls at Avon County Junior Academy Centre continues to be strong.

Richard Jones Director of Sport

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BOYS HOCKEY

After a January residential pre-season training camp at the School, in which Senior players and younger pupils were able to practise their skills and develop some early momentum, the season got underway.

The opening rounds of the season saw Downside face Milton Abbey & Leweston. There were plenty of positives to be taken from some tough games and it is always great to have some momentum building success – with the 1st XI winning 2-1 and 8-1, and the U15A winning 4-0 and drawing 0-0 respectively.

Every year we welcome back familiar faces alongside some new international players.

The learning curve is always steep when you consider that these new pupils often have had no experience of playing the sport, but their effort and willingness to learn is infectious. The leadership shown by our experienced players is hugely inspiring as they encourage and guide their new teammates. The coaching staff also do an amazing job supporting individual players and collective teams.

As the weeks went by the boy’s faced opposition which included Wellington, Monkton Combe, Prior Park, Mount Kelly, Stonar and Collegiate School, Bristol. It was always a pleasure to coach such a receptive and enthusiastic group of players and the progress shown over the season was exceptional. Always competitive and hardworking, their on-pitch attitude typifies Downside Sport. Over 130 boys played representative hockey fixtures across seven sides, and many attended the multitude of individual and small group coaching sessions which our coaches delivered. The participation of boys at Avon County Junior Academy Centre continues to be strong.

Richard Jones Director of Sport

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NETBALL

This season has been the largest of Downside’s netball history, having fielded 14 teams at different points throughout. With the number of pupils participating in netball in the School exceeding 100, that brings with it the requirement of staffing numbers and experience which was demonstrated with having four Level 2 coaches alongside two other experienced members of staff. We also had our first season, where we opened the doors to boys and created an environment inclusive to all, moving away from the traditional line of the sport and meeting the needs of our pupils. When meeting with the coaches at different points throughout the season, the over-arching themes have been that, if we were an outcome driven school, some might say our season has been a tough one. However, Downside sport prides itself on developing the pupil as a whole within the guidelines of the Benedictine Values and celebrating the processes and development of our pupils, along with creating a life-long love for the sport and that encapsulates this Term.

The 1st Team, captained by Laila Akenzua AlKareem with Olivia Mossman as her vice, were slow burners at the start of the Term but with sheer determination and a willingness to be better, clicked into place after half-term putting out some incredible performances. They have played many matches, attended two tournaments, and orchestrated their own ‘captain’s run through’ on a Friday lunch to be best prepared. The highlight of the Season includes their match against Warminster when all their hard work was really displayed in full force, along with their match against BGS the following week, where they improved on their performance despite coming up against a more formidable opponent. The development and leadership within this Team has been amazing, whether through the straight-talking captain’s words, to seeing our Fifth Form players, Luisa Norris and Zara Bellord, stepping up into the First Team this year. Their goal going into the Term

was to ensure that despite ages and experiences in the Team, they all deserved to be there and therefore were all equals, and that mutual respect really showed throughout the Season.

The 2nd Team captained by Scarlett Vaux created a team environment that was inclusive and inviting to all. Over the course of the Season, they have seen at least 13 different girls represent in their team through changes in availability and people having chances to play up and fight for places in higher teams. Despite these changes, the girls have created and maintained an atmosphere of positivity, committing to ‘doing the basics well’ and reducing the chaos on court by communicating and playing off one another. Many of these girls attended 1:2:1 clinic in their own time to drive both individual and team performances and ask more from one another and this really showed. They had some great and well fought performances, especially against Blundells and at the end of the Season, Warminster. During the Warminster game the leader was ever-changing, and we knew it would come down to strength of character and determination and with these girls, we have that in spades! Leading from the front Scarlett was crucial in the centre position with Cosima Melotte sinking her shots following from

huge turnovers from both Katie Pughe-Morgan and Lily-Rose Hall, both playing out of position. Yes, a tough season, but one that highlighted the true character of all 13 girls that represented.

This season, we also managed to have matches for a 3rd, 4th and 5th Team. Kings School, Bruton and Monkton Combe both fielded five team senior blocks allowing all the girls who opted to play Netball this term to wear the dress on court.

The 3rd Team got the season off to a great start by winning their first game again Prior Park School 10-9. It was a moment of great celebration for the Team, who had worked tirelessly to improve their game and achieve their goals. They then went on to have a nail-biting game against QEH where they won by just one goal. The 4th Team has had an exciting and rewarding season, playing a total of six games. Despite some tough competition, they have managed to win one game and draw another, demonstrating their tenacity and determination on the court. Throughout the season, the 4th Team displayed some amazing netball skills, showcasing their ability to work together as a cohesive unit. They motivated and pushed each other to achieve their best, and their hard work paid off in each game they played. Finally, the 5th Team, who played a small number of games this

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season, but the progress they made was nothing short of remarkable. Several players had never played netball before, but their determination and commitment to the sport were evident from the very beginning. Despite the lack of experience, the Team showed incredible improvement with each game they played. They quickly learned the rules of the game and developed their skills, showing impressive teamwork and communication on the court.

At U15 level, for the first time we fielded six teams meaning that again, every girl in the Third and Fourth Form represented Downside in netball this Term.

The Under 15A Team have grown commendably this season developing their netball skills and knowledge steadily and have picked up some impressive results to underline this. A nine strong squad have worked hard to take on new and challenging tactical strategies in addition to continuing with fine tuning their basic skills. The squad have competed well against some larger top netball schools and narrowly missed out on wins against Wells (22-26), Wellington (13-16) and BGS (23-28). Highlights of the season have seen a draw against Dauntsey’s where a last second goal by the opposition robbed them of the win and a fabulous comeback against Leweston saw an eight-goal deficit at half time clawed back to secure a 25-25 draw. The match was an impressive display of resilience and unfaltering determination which has been a key asset of this team throughout the Term which has been rewarded with good wins against Stonar 17-14 and Warminster School 4114. Experience has been gained with participation for some of the team in the Under 16 National Schools competition and the Under 15 County Cup where they achieved a commendable draw against Queens Taunton 4-4.

The Under 15B team have demonstrated relentless sportsmanship and resilience through a tough season where their results have not been indicative of the vast improvements the side have made. With ever changing players when support is

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given to the A team, the girls have taken on board coaching advice and implemented this into their match play and have worked tirelessly to compete favourably against opposition. The Team should be proud of themselves for how far they have come with many of them still in this age group next year.

In the latter half of the season, close matches have been achieved against Warminster and Bristol Grammar School and a well-deserved win against Stonar. Gaby Lesault, Eva Errington, Amanda Mendizabal De Barros and Sofia Betancourt Pulido have all stepped up to play for the A Team and can take credit for the comeback game against Leweston which they were all involved in.

The attitude of the U15Cs has been amazing and their ability to carry their personalities onto the court and influence their play has made for some thrilling matches. On three occasions, there has only been three goals in it. The experience of the group is mixed - leaders have been grown.

They can now confidently call themselves a team, constantly offering support and challenging standards, it has made their training purposeful.

The U15Ds have been training with the C’s and this has driven standards. The cultural influence on the group has had an extremely positive impact on the training and style of play. Playing with freedom and fire, laughter and connection. These two teams have symbolised what sport is all about. The U15E and F teams, have created a team environment similar to the 5ths where learning the game, support, fun and exercising for mental health has been at the heart of their season. They have played few matches with the U15E v Wells Cathedral being a particular thriller.

The netball term has seen the 13As develop as a team and work together to improve their basic skills and tactical knowledge. Results have not always reflected how much progress has been made by each individual but when everything clicked into place the Team showed much potential. Highlight of the season was a tremendous win against Monkton Combe 2118 which saw excellent attacking through the

mid court and commendable fluency which the Team had been working on throughout the Term.

A solid performance against Wells Cathedral School also saw an impressive 12-12 draw. A first ever participation in the Under 13 County Cup saw them compete favourably against Westfield Academy, Taunton, Millfield, and King’s Taunton.

Stephanie Onyejindu-Okonji was selected from over 100 athletes into the Under 13 England Netball Player Development Pathway and attended 15 sessions with Somerset County Coaches including representing the Academy in an InterAcademy match against Taunton. The U13B Team had a tough season in terms of results. However, their determination and attitude never dipped when on court which saw them put up a great fight against Millfield Prep, where they continued to pull the opposition back. Deborah Thomas has been the standout player of the season in defence, being a positive leader from the back, gaining the opposition’s Player on multiple occasions. Highlight of the season was the 6-2 win over Leweston where things came together for the group. The U13Cs embarked on a steep learning curve from the outset where many had not played before, but they approached each game with grit and determination. Many close matches were enjoyed culminating in a 9-9 draw against Millfield Prep towards the end of the Season underlining how vast an improvement the Team made.

Lisa Packer Netball Development Lead and Coach

RUGBY

Every week throughout September to December, over 130 Downside pupils participated in either rugby union or touch rugby. Sport is a vital part of a pupil’s daily School life and for those who choose rugby, the game is rooted in a solid foundation of values. This sense of comradery and dedication has guided the behaviours of every teacher, coach, parent, and pupil involved in rugby this Term.

For the majority, this season started at the

end of August, with a pre-season camp and the Downside Rugby Development Day. The senior rugby squad took part in a two-day camp, consisting of training, video analyse, fitness, team building and bowling. These activities introduced the squad to the new coaching team and helped them bond as a team; preparing them well for what turned out to be a tough, but exciting, season ahead.

The 1st XV started their season mid-week, hosting Craighouse School, Santiago. As the news broke that Chile had beaten the USA to reach the Rugby World Cup for the first time, hosting the School that currently has nine old boys in that exact Chilean national team, was the perfect challenge to begin the 2022/23 season. Against a very physical and technically sound side, the boys fought hard and were able to exhibit their fitness and to control the tempo of the game. This game was led by the ball carrying skills of Charlie B and Luke M. However, a lack of accuracy in the final third cost the boys a couple of tries. A big thank you to Craighouse for reminding us all how important and special sports tours are.

The first game for all teams was against Bryanston. The 1st XV, 2nd XV and the U16’s faced a very strong Bryanston senior side at home. The U16’s put in the performance of the day at home, with a squad that has a sprinkling of previous Downside U15’s stocking the core of the team. Downside did superbly well throughout the afternoon, with standout performances from Edward H, George B and Alonso D. The U15 and U14 squads travelled south to the tune of the boys serenading each other with a collection of 70s and 80s classics! The U15’s put on a good showing through fly half, Harry G, and hard direct running from Aiden W and Enzo B. The U14s followed suit. For the rugby development groups, several of whom were playing in their first ever rugby fixture, the boys started their season with a touch rugby game against the same opposition. Great effort and commitment were displayed by all players.

In the following week before exeat, the 1st

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XV, U14’s, and U13’s kicked off their season with fixtures against King Edwards Bath and Stonar School, respectively. The week’s fixtures led to multiple highlights across the club. Charlie J’s ability to counterattack from full back versus KES is one superb example. However, no more so than the U13’s, with half of the squad representing Downside in their first ever rugby fixture. It was a sunny afternoon of running rugby. The boys performed very well against Stonar School, putting into practice their technical and tactical details of the first two weeks. Chester C and Oliver B scored twice as a result of fantastic support lines and determination.

After a well-deserved exeat, the U14’s and U15’s hosted Queen’s College, Taunton. Strong team performances continued, and improvements were made in training. The support play (especially rucking) vastly improved. Special mention must go to the U14’s who began turning over the ball multiple times to give their influential scrumhalf, Pablo H, lightning quick balls. This stood both sides and the rest of the club in good stead for the Saturday block versus Exeter School. On the road, the 1st XV, 2nd XV and U13’s produced some fantastic ‘joué’ rugby. Perhaps the 1st XV scoring Downside Rugby Club’s try of the season. After an excellent defensive set, Oliver W stole the ball just outside our 22. From the following ruck, Charlie H put in a delicate chip and gather. As he was in the

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process of being tackled, Charlie flicked the ball out the “back door” to Joe L-S, who finished strongly in the corner. At home, the U15s and U14s performed valiantly against physical Exeter sides.

The U14 B’s were the team of the day. Balta S and Makuo U played excellently in what was only their second ever game of touch rugby.

Back-to-back fixtures against local rivals, Monkton Combe and Wells Cathedral School, led us into half term. The 1st XV pitch played host for the first time this season. With the grass in immaculate condition, the 1st XV boys lined up against a strong Monkton Combe side. An exciting game of running and direct rugby followed. The 2nd XV played in a well fought 10 a-side games.

The U16’s, U15’s and U14’s all displaying the spirit of rugby, although coming up short against well-disciplined Monkton sides. The U14 and U15 B’s played a festival of touch rugby as they were gradually building up to contact. Some of the boys at the start of the match seemed apprehensive to play contact but with the steady build up in rules, by the second half there were lots of smiles on faces and nobody wanted to be substituted off. Downside really settled into the match in the second half, putting on a spectacle for all to watch.

Roman P-P and captain, James M-C, were superb throughout. On the Saturday, the 1st XV played their second game in three days. Paving the way for debuts for four of our standout U16s, Alonso

D, George B, Joseph L and Johnny R. They all contributed to a fantastic first win of the season.

Following a slow start to the 1st XV’s Natwest Vase Cup run, with byes in round one and two, they faced the tough task of traveling to Bristol Grammar School on a very wet and cold Thursday afternoon. They were confident and energetic, resulting in an excellent team effort against a welldrilled and physical BGS side. However, they just fell short of a win. This was despite another dominant display from Number eight, Luke M, who carried superbly from the scrum and in his pod, he gave Charlie B and Archie S a solid platform to attack from.

With the 2022 season ending, the final three fixtures for all teams were against tough opposition with Blundell’s, Wycliffe and Kings Bruton. Away at Blundell’s, the 1st XV and U17’s once again played in extremely physical and free-flowing games, with Alonso D and Ivor J being the standout players.

Both teams unfortunately came up short. After the disappointment of the performances in the last games, the U14’s and U15’s had trained well and were looking forward to implementing these efforts into a new, competitive challenge. After a stirring and poignant rendition of the Last Post (played by Lower Sixth Form Music Scholar Pawel) and impeccably observing a minute’s silence as an act of remembrance, the games got underway.

In the U15’s game, Joshua G broke through the Blundell’s defensive line and ran from his own 22 to score a length-of-the-field try. Although they were beaten by a stronger Blundell’s side, the Downside boys knew that they had been competitive throughout and were rightly proud of their efforts.

The following week, the U13’s finished their season against Millfield Prep School and Sexey’s School in a triangular fixture. With contested breakdown and contact, this was set to be a solid challenge for the team. Joe T and Ryan E were fantastic throughout. For the seniors, their penultimate fixtures were at Wycliffe. The 1st XV, led by Oliver W and Archie S, put in a superb defensive display in the first half which then allowed

them to score freely against a tiring Wycliffe side.

Charlie B and Matthew S were again influential in attack. Meanwhile, back at Downside, the U14’s and U15’s hosted a triangular with Wycliffe and Westonbirt. Tristan O, Cameron C and Orson G gave a real focus to the U14’s phase attacking structure, something which had been missing in recent games. As a result, Downside frequently managed to move the ball to the edges of the field.

It was really rewarding for the coaching team to see the hard work from training being exhibited during a competitive game.

The 2022 season finished with the U17’s and 1st XV traveling to Kings Bruton. Both fixtures were closely contested. The 1st XV were left disappointed with variables outside their control, however, they showed great maturity and discipline in defeat. George B impressed during his first start for the 1st XV and Ollie W and Ivor J once again led from the front.

Our pupils’ School lives are full of expectations, driven by the desire for better grades, comparisons on social media and seemingly every moment filled with a device. The great strength of sport and rugby at Downside is the opportunity to step away from these daily challenges. Teamwork provides an opportunity for interaction and reliance on one another, and from this our rugby union and touch rugby players derive their enjoyment.

These experiences have tested the character of all involved and as a result, there is a greater understanding of self and others. A cold and wet afternoon out watching the U14 B team may not look like the most enjoyable way to spend an afternoon, but through the struggle to find progress, teamwork and enjoyment, the ‘why’ we play sport and rugby in School is evident.

Max Gauntlett Rugby Development Lead and Coach

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TABLE TENNIS

The Table Tennis Team has concluded a remarkable season filled with dedication, determination, and a lot of fun during our weekly sessions. We had between twenty-six and thirty pupils for every training session - boys and girls from both the Fifth and Sixth Forms. We utilised a number of mini tables as well as our seven full-size tables.

This enabled competitive and inclusive activity and game play for everyone throughout the session and it was structured in such a way that you played different people on different size tables every game. This ladder system allowed us to play with different teammates who have completely different styles often resulting in unexpected wins and losses!

Several players emerged as standout performers during the season. Their consistent performances and remarkable achievements contributed significantly to the team’s overall success. Special mention must go to: Max Liu, our new recruit into the Lower Sixth who has brought attacking flare and good humour, Ryan Ng our quiet, serious player, Maria Dimond our consistent and long game specialist, Ethan Chan our enthusiastic energetic chancer and, Justin Wu whose skill and gamesmanship forced the errors from opponents.

As well as our internal competitive games, every session we played four fixtures which were against King’s School Bruton three times and Monkton Combe School once, winning all of them. The final match against King’s Bruton allowed a greater number of our other squad members to compete and represent the School successfully. The strength in depth and our players’ ability to adapt to various playing styles and implement effective strategies played a significant role in our triumphs.

Our Table Tennis Team had an extraordinary season marked by enjoyment, enthusiasm, unity and a competitive spirit. Many thanks to Mr Potter, our enthusiastic good humoured and competitive coach. The commitment to training, exceptional individual performances, and personal and team

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triumphs made for a very successful season. We are proud of our achievements and the positive impact we made on the table tennis community.

As we look to the future, we remain committed to build on our successes, setting even higher standards for ourselves and growing our fixture list in the seasons to come.

Simon Potter House Master (Barlow) & Director of the Wider Curriculum

TENNIS

The season of 2022/23 will be noted in my calendar as a pivotal time for the tennis season at Downside School. With exciting renovation projects already underway, highest participation rates within the sporting programme and a hugely successful tennis season, the presence of tennis at Downside is in a very strong position. It is clear to feel the legacy of players past and present, which will form so much of what is to come.

The tennis season for the Girls and Boys included fixtures with King’s School Bruton, Wells Cathedral School, Warminster School and Monkton Combe School. I was delighted that we managed to host and travel to our local schools safely. A special thank you should go to those involved in transporting us to fixtures to all corners

of the Southwest. Another thank you is reserved for Sarah Kieck and her catering team, for all their efforts to provide teas for our teams and visitors.

Our season began with the annual tennis preseason, hosted overnight on the Saturday before term began. The two-day residential began with an online blessing from Fr Michael Patey who referenced the reflection of St Benedict who wrote that “we must run and do now what will profit us forever”. Fr Patey also referenced St Bendict’s continual note of discipline, resilience, and adaptability, all incredibly relevant skills for our preseason and the season to come. A special thank you to the parents and players of both the junior and senior preseason for supporting and dedicating time and logistical effort to ensure the optimal time was spent with our players on court.

We began with a trip to King’s School Bruton which is confirmed as our reliable opening block. A nicely balanced fixture which showed some clear attacking intent from our Senior teams on a sunny afternoon both home and away. Although Bruton was a tricky start results wise, I was delighted with the team’s response in engaging with the tactical elements of the game in the following training sessions. This year we wanted to focus more on our positioning on the court to show more awareness of opportunities to attack the ‘centre window’. I have been so proud of the attitude our players have shown this season, their constant engagement and desire to perform better has driven the standard of play to a position where we are stamping our authority on the Tennis scene.

With standout performances of both senior teams against Monkton Combe School and Warminster School, it was a delight to see a Downside team driving the tempo and leading the score.

A special note is also reserved for those who took the proactive step to be involved in the tennis programme from September. With the aforementioned court renovation project taking place this year, our pupils did not always have easy access to the courts here at the School.

Instead, with the help of our local tennis centre,

Writhlington Tennis Centre, we were able to gain access to two indoor courts twice a week. This was hugely successful with our pupils and provided them with a quality facility and access to coaching throughout the worst of the Mendip climate.

Another thank you to those pupils who continued to support the programme throughout their examination periods. With the added stress and commitments, I hope it gave them an opportunity to experience the work-life balance for they may come to understand at university.

I was immensely proud of our U15 teams this year. With three teams going out most weekends, opportunities to represent Downside were widely available. With a few challenging fixture blocks, it did not take long for the girls to find their stride. There were notable performances against Stonar School where the girls put very consistent performances together to secure the points. The girls were also hosts to Leweston School where a competitive fixture ended in Downside taking all sets, a brilliant performance. The U13 and U12 teams also had a successful season, who hosted Wells Cathedral School for an U13 block fixture, where every girl in the year group took to one of our 13 courts to represent the school for a second year in a row. The teams had a range tennis experience, with some taking to the court competitively for the first time. I am buoyed by the growth of the ‘junior’ teams and their desire to continue to learn and improve, it can only make the future of tennis at Downside brighter.

The 2020/21 season built such a strong foundation to what we achieved this year. From the legacy created by our Tennis Old Gregorians, there is now a demand for mixed tennis fixtures at the school. I was delighted to offer our pupils two evenings of mixed tennis this year through our strong connections with Wells Cathedral School and Warminster School. Hosting Wells Cathedral on a Friday night in June proved to be a huge hit with the community. ‘Henman Hill’ was populated with Downside pupils, parents and staff eagerly awaiting what was to be a tightly fought

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contest. With the music blaring in the distance, sunshine coating our newly renovated courts and the prospect of the late BBQ, I was just delighted to see a legacy being set in action. The match came down to the last three sets, with Downside requiring three wins to secure a late draw. After Anna H saved two match points on her own serve, the crowd watched on with eagerness and nerves, hoping the Downside pair could complete the job. The crowd erupted when Anna H and Oliver F clinched the win with a serve and volley combination. Following conversations with Wells Cathedral staff and pupils over the BBQ, this fixture will be confirmed as an annual occasion with Wells replicating an away fixture for us. Such a wonderful evening of tennis and community, thank you to everyone involved.

Our season concluded with the first Downside Tennis celebration meal, hosted by the Talbot Inn, Mells. It was a wonderful event with 19 pupils and staff attending the meal and speeches.

Congratulations to Angela CF-T and D. Flynn who were awarded ‘Players’ Player’ by their peers and Jemim. K as Coaches Player. Jemima has been utterly brilliant for us this year. Jemima embodies the Benedictine values by constantly being supportive of everyone in the team but also dedicates time to her own game through continual practice and resilience. As a result, Jemima is a hugely reliable member of the squad, we wish Jemima well in her new challenges and we look forward to welcoming Jemima back as an OG. The demand for tennis continues to grow, and as the School community grows, I can only be

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excited and driven to progress the development of the tennis programme. This year, we achieved a huge demand to select tennis as a Games option.

With 176 pupils taking to the courts in Games this term, I can only be delighted and enthused.

A huge thank you should go to every pupil who represented the School this term, they represented themselves and Downside both home and away with great commitment and humility. From our Captains, Isabelle R and Yvo M right through to our first-time players in the First Form, they are an example to the sporting community. Not only this, but the teams are an embodiment of the Benedictine Values every time they step out on the court. I am proud to witness the role these pupils have played in driving standards throughout our community. With exciting partnership prospects ahead in September as well as the introduction of the LTA tournament structure and newly renovated courts, I am already looking forward to continuing our work.

Thank you to the pupils who are leaving us this year, you have been a huge part of what tennis is at Downside. I endeavour every single one of you to pursue tennis wherever you go, any court that welcomes you will be a lucky one to have you on it. Those who step onto the court in future years at Downside will be indebted to this group of pupils who have laid the foundations to a love of tennis at Downside. Thank you.

Conor O’Rourke Head of Tennis Development and Lead Coach

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THE

OLD GREGORIAN

Downside School, Stratton-on-the-Fosse, Radstock, Bath BA3 4RJ www.downside.co.uk Registered Charity No: 1184700

Contents From the President

2

Saint Gregory’s Society

4

Downside Fisher Youth Club

5

Sports Reports

6

Announcements

14

Obituaries

18

OGs Far & Wide

26

Back to Downside

30

OG News

34

Downside Air Crash 80th Anniversary

41

Jazzing up Lives

46

Training as a Safari Guide

50

Exploring Alpine Adventures

52

OGs in Madrid

55

Queen Elizabeth II Funeral

58

King Charles III Coronation

64

OMV

67

Publications

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From the President A message from Jonney Grew (C77)

In the last year, there have been many great gatherings and occasions marked.

On a very wet and stormy evening at the end of September I saw off the OG team who were successful Bronze Medal Winners in the Arrow Trophy under the skipper, Fin Houlihan (R93) at Cowes.

for a game. During the month, the annual Petre Society Mass and Lunch took place at the Invitation of the Head and Abbot, for those who have or will leave a legacy to the School or the Abbey.

On 20th May 2023, the 80th Anniversary of the Air Crash was remembered with a Service involving the CCF and Schola for a poignant service in the Monastic Graveyard followed by a Wreath laying Service at the In October the Downside Wanderers Celebrated 100 years of cricket in the Long Room at Lords which was Pavilion after some special words by Anthony Pontifex (S60), the President of the Downside Wanderers. well attended and a great celebration.

At the end of May, it was a pleasure to make Michael Later in the same month there was the triennial Madrid Bernard, the former Chair of Governors an Honorary OG at a very enjoyable evening organised by Ken Dinner which was enjoyed in the Club Gran Pena by Beedle (R73) at the Grosvenor Arms in Hindon, on the many OGs and their wives, husbands and partners Wiltshire border attended by a gathering of OGs and not only based in Spain but also, in France, Ireland, their wives. and the UK. Thanks again to James Scanlan (S86) who organised and cajoled many to come.

In the middle of June, there was an OG Scottish gathering in the New Club with the splendid backdrop In November on the 11th, I laid a wreath on behalf of Edinburgh Castle. Thank you to Richard Warren of all Old Gregorians who gave their lives during the WW1 and WW2 and subsequently. The East India Club, (B77) for organising and hosting a great evening.

St James’s Square again was a lovely venue for the 2022 Prize Day this year happened on 1st July. It was a London Dinner which was well attended. pleasure to be able to award the OG Medal to John There was a first for the London Carol Service which Scanlan (S54) in recognition of all that he has done for happened in St Patrick’s Church, Soho Square with St Gregory’s Society over more than forty years as well beautiful singing by the Downside Schola and a good as all the other external charitable contributions that he reception afterwards in the Crypt. has made.

In March, the OG Football team welcomed the Downside Football Team to Battersea Park in London

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Unusually it was also a pleasure to make four Honorary OGs. The Head, Andrew Hobbs, who has now been

at Downside for fifteen years and has helped the School through a great period of change and therefore, especially a pleasure to make an Honorary OG. The spiritual life of the School has been greatly enhanced by the Manquehue community at Downside.

It was a pleasure to make Cristóbal, Rodrigo and Vicente, Honorary OGs in recognition of this important work that they have done for Downside and the OG Community.

As I write, I look forward to the OG gathering in Paris during the Rugby World Cup competition in October 7th (Scotland v. Ireland) and the OG weekend in Malta from 21st October.

Special thanks to the Development Office for the support they give in the background for all the events.

Paige Owen, our former Executive Secretary has moved to new pastures, and I thank her for all she did in her time. We welcome Silvia Acosta Santos as the new Executive Secretary. Special thanks to Jess Newman who does so much for the Society and our thanks to Andrew and Damaris Hobbs who are so often attendees at the various gatherings of OGs around the world.

As I come to the end of my three-year tenure, I am pleased to say Ken Beedle (R73) has kindly agreed to take over the Presidency in November when I standdown as President at the AGM which will be at Downside on 18th October.

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Saint Gregory’s Society 2022-2023 President Jonny Grew (C77) Hon. Treasurer Ben Jennings (R05) Councilors Ken Beedle (R73) Daniel Brennan (S89) Fiona Cadwallader (B78) Charlie Harbord (R12) Tallulah Horton (C18) Michael Liddell (B84) John Ludlow (C82) Katy Nannestad (I09)

Vice-Presidents Geoffrey Jaques (B59) Ian Norrington (B54) Rupert Orchard (R74) Mary Jane Platt (Ra76) John Scanlan (S54) Mark Steed (C71) Simon Westlake (S81)

Officers Dom Leo Maidlow Davis (B72) (Chaplain) Honorary Vice-Presidents Vincent Barrett (Ra87) – Ireland John Churchill (B84) – USA (East) Mark Lightfoot (R86) – Malta Gaizka Ortuzar (S53) – Spain James Scanlan (S86) – Spain

Contact Us The office at Downside is run by Jess Newman and Silvia Acosta Santos.

Telephone 01761 235100 ext. 158 Email oldgregorians@downside.co.uk

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Downside Fisher Youth Group Attendance at the youth club has continued to climb fast. We have attracted a number of refugees whom we are proud to serve and bring a very different feel to the Club, and this is a great positive. Covid-19 was difficult for those in the inner city and it is, again, the poor who are suffering from food, energy and housing inflation and for whom we continue to exist.

We are not immune to the inflationary pressures in the economy and feel it, particularly through wage costs and energy costs, which are our two largest expenses. We have had a push this year to create some new and exciting programmes and have been fortunate to attract funding. The main ones are a kayaking club, using our pool but also the river nearby, which has been popular. We also have a girls-only evening which is well-supported.

We lost a major figure this year with the death of Steve Hiser. He joined the Club as an amateur boxer in 1957 and later joined the coaching staff in 1973. Since

“his approach to boxing changed the lives of numerous young people” then, he trained a number of champions including Lloyd Honeyghan. But as importantly, his approach to boxing changed the lives of numerous young people.

Eloquent testimonies to the impact he had, and the impact the Club generally tries to have, can be found here: www.funeralguide.co.uk/ obituaries/112139

has given us significant help with our website and social media. We survive due to our OG connections and would encourage you all to think of ways you can help us, including remembering us in your wills.

Robert Coke (S90)

We have recently appointed Matt Valenzia (B09) as a trustee, who

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Sports Reports DOWNSIDE WANDERERS CRICKET CLUB Played: 11 Won: 4 Cancelled: 2

Lost: 6

Drawn: 1

The 2023 Wanderers season was destined to be a good vintage, following on from the Club’s highly successful Centenary Dinner at Lords in October 2022, where £8,400 was raised through generous donations towards cricket at Downside.

The Wanderers kicked off at Downside with a winning start over the School 1st XI, with notable performances from Louis Hansom (S22) and Jack Smith (S18), as well as a salmon-like leap at first slip by Will Kirkpatrick (C96) to remove the School’s dangerous batsman. This was the first of two important milestone fixtures this season, with the match marking the 80th anniversary of the tragic plane crash of 1943.

At Warnford, the Wanderers set an uncharacteristically large total of 298 runs, with Graham (R16), Gilbert (S12) and Church (C02) reaching half centuries, and Charlie Hobbs (R19) adding 41. Hobbs featured again with the ball taking three wickets earning the man of the match award, but unfortunately the Hogs held on for a draw. A special mention to James Lombard (C02) for keeping the team well hydrated throughout.

Lombard featured again versus Roehampton with career best bowling figures of 2-11. Will Orr (R99) hit a commanding 119 retired, backed up by a fifty from Tatham, setting up a 160-run win.

Following dialogue with the Cricketer Cup Committee relating to the Wanderers’ position in the competition, our first round Cup fixture was eagerly anticipated.

With the Old Cranleighans being unceremoniously dispatched in the bye round by the Old Wykehamists, the first-round match was to be in Winchester. On a scorching day featuring a ‘ripping wicket’, the Wanderers won the toss decided to bat, putting on 164 with a vital ‘Baz-ball’ innings from Tom Doe (S10) coming in at no.7. The Old Wyks looked confident at the

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start of their innings, but Hansom (S22) produced an early excellent spinning and spitting delivery to dismiss their opener, caught at slip. Doubt crept into the home dressing room. Doe took three wickets and was the stand-out all round performer; however, Winchester chased the Wanderers’ total with four wickets to spare.

It was an excellent fixture reaffirming the Wanderers’ ability to be competitive in the competition.

Three London fixtures then followed, first a close three wicket loss at the Hurlingham with Sam Harris (B12) opening with a classy 73 and Harry Ross (B16) taking an impressive 5-59. Second a convincing 5 wicket win over our Benedictine rivals from the north where Mahon (B10), Kirkpatrick and Doe all contributed with the bat. Third, the Emeriti tournament taking place in Wimbledon with four quick-fire short format losses, with consistently quality batting from James Hobbs (R14) and bowling from Louis Hansom throughout the day.

The intra-Wanderers T20 fixture at Streatham and Malborough CC was another success, with a pre-match boat race between Lawrie Graham and Harry Ross (the latter victorious) replacing the coin toss. The Ross XI were also victorious on the pitch featuring explosive and innovative half centuries from James Hobbs and Will Church respectively. A special mention and welcome to new Wanderers, Matt Stanislas (S23) and Ivor Jones (S23).

The penultimate game of the season was at Barnes, which ended in a close 2 wicket loss. Ben Tatham (S09) featured with the bat once again, this time opening proceedings with a sublime centenary. The Wanderers posted 268-8, our fourth first innings total over 200 runs this season (perhaps not so uncharacteristic after all), which Barnes chased down steadily despite skipper, Chandos Monro’s (S01) best efforts, taking 4 wickets for 46 off 8 overs.

The second of the two important milestone fixtures and the denouement of the season meant heading back down the M3 to Winchester for the centenary fixture versus the Old Wykehamists. Will Kirkpatrick captained the side, carefully curating a Wanderers team with remarkable representation across seven decades of Downside cricket stretching back to the 1950s with our President, who heroically stepped onto the field as twelfth man due to injury. It was especially exciting to see Riaan Minnie fly in from Namibia for the fixture.

With the new Wanderers flag hoisted, Downside posted 201 all out; great contributions with the bat from James Hobbs, Minnie and Archie Cotterell (B81). Louie Hansom bowled a long spell, taking 5 wickets for 78 runs off 14 overs. The game was finely balanced until the last over, when the Wyks chased down the total with one wicket in hand. A memorable match and a fitting testament to one of our oldest rivalries – long may it continue.

Back by popular demand, the North Middlesex fixture was the final game of the season. Church reached his third half century of the season, and Joe Mahon took 3 wickets for 27 runs off 7 overs. Although not ending with a winning result, this concluded a hugely positive season which featured 70 playing Wanderers, highlighting the depth of the club. The club is open to all standards and we welcome new players.

For those of you who have played this year and plan to next year, the committee politely requests that you pay the Club’s voluntary subscription fee, which has increased to £40 per annum. We of course welcome the continued support of non-playing members as well. For payment details please contact our Hon. Treasurer, Will Mostyn (S11) (email: wdjmostyn@gmail.com, mob: 07928280664).

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With stumps drawn on an excellent season, we look forward to seeing many of you at one of our fixtures.

Please add the below date to your diaries: - 17-19th May 2024 - Wanderers 2024 Corfu Tour - please contact Lawrie Graham if you are interested (email: lgraham0598@gmail.com, mob: 07935075401).

If you would like to be added to the Wanderers WhatsApp group or for any other questions, please contact our Hon. Secretary, Hugh Jennings (S11) (email: hepjennings@gmail.com, mob: 07825262412).

Johnstone (S-Ra62) the Veterans’ Bowl. After many years at Frilford Heath, the Autumn Meeting had a new venue, Huntercombe near Henley. Neil Cook (C66) and Mark Langran (B83) won the morning foursomes and Christopher Grievson (Ra62) the afternoon singles.

Later in the autumn, we lost matches against Stowe and Sherborne. The final fixture of 2022 was the match against the School in which our age and experience prevailed over youth and enthusiasm.

Early in 2023 we had a rare win over Ampleforth before travelling to Kent for the Halford Hewitt. The draw provided us with an extra practice round which was played in a strong wind at Rye. The wind did not relent Hugh Jennings (U87) at Sandwich the following day: in the morning we beat Honorary Secretary Eastbourne 3-2 with Mike McGann (Ra78) and Dominic

OLD GREGORIAN GOLF SOCIETY

The Society has had an enjoyable year. Membership is open to all Old Gregorians; anyone wishing to join will fit in, since the ages range from 18 to 80 plus and handicaps from scratch to 24 or more. There is variety in the fixture list: a few representative events, some friendly matches against other Societies, and three Meetings.

At the 2022 Summer Meeting, Niall Scott (S03) won the Scratch Cup with a score of 77, the lowest for some years. Richard Kenyon (S90) and Richard Seaver (Ra67) won the Summer Foursomes Bowls, Stephen Reeve-Tucker (R69) the Gregorian Bowl and Patrick

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Stalder (U87) winning the vital point at the 18th hole.

The afternoon match against Hurstpierpoint started with a bang: after a good drive by Andy Borg (B91), Christian Brown (S08) holed out from over 100 yards for a rare eagle; they went on to win easily, their second point of the day. Richard Kenyon and Niall Scott also won both morning and afternoon. But the third win of the afternoon eluded us: Hurstpierpoint played a superb 30yard bunker shot at the final hole to snatch victory.

OLD GREGORIAN NETBALL SOCIETY

At the Spring Meeting Richard Kenyon (S90) and his brother Jeremy (S95) won the Raven Tankards; the latter also won the Mathewson Salvers with Philip Stephens (S60). In June we had a convivial fixture at Piltdown, losing to the host club. In The Mellin we had a difficult first round draw and lost heavily to Cheltenham; we beat Aldenham narrowly in the first round of the Plate but the following day lost to a strong Cranleigh side. In early July the Worth won the Russell Bowl, ending a run of several victories by Ampleforth.

Downside 1st VII team took an early lead, winning the first quarter 7-2. A combination of good composure, tight defence and excellent shooting meant that they maintained this lead for the majority of the game. The Old Gregorian team took a while to find their rhythm, having not played together for a year. However, the team developed throughout the game, trying different combinations and also utilising the experience of Head of Netball, Mrs Chapman, who joined the team for the final quarter. With a minute to go, the Old Gregorian team were down by 1 goal. Strong defending by all and a successful shot from distance meant that the match ended 17 all!

On Saturday 11th March 2023, the Old Gregorian Netball team returned to Downside School to play against the 1st VII Netball team. Following last year’s Super Saturday, which ended in a narrow victory for the Old Gregorians, both teams arrived in the sports hall prepared for a close and competitive re-match. The crowds gathered and the teams were welcomed onto court.

At the Summer Meeting Niall Scott (S01) successfully defended the Scratch Cup; Richard Kenyon again won the foursomes, this time with Justin Weir (Ra85); Jeremy Kenyon (S95) won the Gregorian Bowl and Christopher On behalf of the Old Gregorian Netball team, I would Grievson (RA62) the Veterans’ Bowl. As The Raven goes like to thank everyone who organised this event. We to press, we look forward to our return to Huntercombe look forward to returning next year for a re-match! and matches against our long-standing rivals.

Annabel Staley (C16) Michael Liddell (B84) Captain Honorary Secretary

TOG 2023

9

OLD GREGORIAN SAILING SOCIETY

OGs have been attending the annual Arrows Trophy for many years, a tradition that spans at least a decade.

Throughout this time, the weekend-long affair entails a series of activities. These include travel, embarking on a half-day boat journey along the Solent River, engaging in sailing, and concluding with a debriefing session to review and become accustomed to the routine.

The OGYSA has been competing in the Fairview 37 class. This involves partaking in six races spread across two days. The team, consisting of seven to nine OGs ranging in age from 18 to 60, competes against 12 to 14 other yachts.

There have been many small victories over the years namely challenging Sherborne and Ampleforth to personal races within the race and the “après sail” festivities has proved to be most agreeable when some other team has lost the wager!

The sailing off Cowes and in the Solent is consistently good and tests the skills of the skipper expertly led by Finn Houlihan (R93) and the Downside crews have proven to be an able team and consistently in the top half of the league.

The year 2022 marked a significant achievement for the OGYSA, as they secured 3rd place in the competition.

Notably, they could have potentially claimed 1st place overall if unfavourable weather conditions hadn’t impacted their performance on the second day. This success grants them an invitation to partake in a major competition sailing in the Sunsail 41 fleet, competing against 12 other schools.

Congratulations to everyone over the years. A great weekend of competition and camaraderie between us and competing schools. Thank you, Finn Houlihan, for the constancy!

All are welcome to join us for selection every year to ensure we keep improving and competing to win. It is much fun on all levels!

Zachary Attar (C89)

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OLD GREGORIAN FOOTBALL SOCIETY

As the final whistle blew on another eventful season, the Old Gregorian Football Club (OGFC) reflects on yet another year filled with highs and lows, camaraderie, and the unbreakable bond that ties former Downside School alumni together, football.

The OGFC experienced a mixed bag of fortunes in both their 11-a-side and 5-a-side campaigns, making each match a testament to the enduring spirit of the OG community.

11-A-Side Challenges: The few ‘Ups’ The 11-a-side season for the OGFC in 2023 was, in many ways, a rollercoaster ride. The team encountered formidable opponents, memorable comebacks, and lessons in resilience. While the overall record might appear mediocre, it was a season packed with unforgettable moments.

One of the standout matches, albeit a challenging one, was the encounter against the Old Worthians. The OGFC faced a formidable Worth side, resulting in an 8-3 loss away from home, a difficult game which did not reflect on last year’s 6-2 successes.

While the scoreline was not in our favour, the match showcased some moments of magic.

Another noteworthy game was our annual trip to Downside School. Facing the School’s 1st Team, the OGFC found themselves trailing 4-1 at halftime.

However, armed with our accustomed fighting spirit we launched a thrilling comeback, coming agonizingly close to levelling the score, with the match ending 6-4.

Finally, we rounded up the season by hosting Downside in our historic, first (of many), 11-a-side game at Battersea Park, home of the first ever FA fixture. The Old

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Boys conceded early in the first half against the School and came close on numerous occasions to levelling up before half time.

A resolute defensive performance that would put the likes of Maldini and Nesta to shame from Michael Berridge (S10) would ensure that the Old Boys would not concede, again. Shortly into the second half of the match, the OGFC were awarded a penalty which was sensationally saved by the School’s goalkeeper (keep an eye out for him as he’s been linked to join the OGFC in the next summer window). As the game drew to a close, in the dying embers of the game, winger Kit Warrington (R14) crossed a wonderful ball into the box for skipper Jorge Baltazar (R15) to nod in the equaliser, with the game ending in a fair 1-1 draw.

The match was a real representation of the competitive yet friendly rivalry between the OGFC and the School. A big thank you to all the supporters who came to watch.

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5-A-Side Success and Transitions In the realm of 5-a-side football, the OGFC demonstrated their mettle, achieving remarkable results against tough opponents. They bested Worth twice, showcasing their dominance with a 9-5 win, and displayed their fighting spirit even in a losing effort with an 8-6 scoreline (winning two out of three games against the Worthians). Against Ampleforth, the OGFC secured a 6-5 win, and, despite an 8-4 loss, they showed that they were comfortable competing with some of the longer-running alumni teams.

However, the season also brought changes. The OGFC bid farewell to their regular venue at the Downside Fisher Youth Club in Bermondsey, and they welcome a new challenge as they joined the Battersea 6-a-side Wednesday league, competing against some of South London’s finest 6-a-side teams at Newton Prep School’s ground. The first game kicking off at 20:45 on Wednesday the 13th of September.

Final thoughts A big thank you goes out to the OG Society for their continued support, and all the pupils who have taken part this year, travelling across the country to play fixtures for the team and turning up to our ad hoc training sessions. For those of you unfamiliar with the OGFC, we’re about fostering a sense of community

amongst former Downside School pupils. It provides a space for young OGs who have recently left the School to remain connected to each other and the OG Society.

Special mentions must go to club Chairman Jamie Francis-Jones (B84), whose dedication to organising fixtures, securing funding, and ensuring access to excellent facilities has been invaluable to the OGFC. As the final whistle of the season echoes through the years, the OGFC looks ahead to the future with optimism, knowing that the bonds formed on and off the pitch will continue to strengthen. Football may be the common thread that unites them, but it’s the sense of belonging and shared history that truly defines the Old Gregorian Football Club.

If anyone is interested in joining the squad, please reach out to either the Chairman, Jamie Francis-Jones or Captain, Jorge Baltazar for further information.

Awards: Most Improved - Alex Ranzetta (R14) Player of the Season - Marc Ortiz-Patino (B18) Jorge Baltazar (R15) Captain

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Fred Mahon (B07), a son, Arthur Mahon, on 1st October 2022 Matthew Wright (C03), a daughter, Madeleine Georgina Wright, on 16th October 2022

Asis Moreno (R88)

Announcements

Births

Charlie Tighe (C98), a son, Milo WilsonTighe, on 14th December 2022 Rory Campbell-Lamerton (B07), a son, Max Campbell-Lamerton, on 16th February 2023 Alex Archibald (R06), a son, Ruairidh Alexander Scott Archibald, on 27th February 2023 Rosanna Agach-Magee (C07), a daughter, Indira Daïse Agach-Magee, on 16th March 2023 Edward Westlake (S05), a son, Wilbur Westlake, on 28th March 2023 William Hatton (S08), a daughter, Aubrey Violet Hatton, on 22nd May 2023

Son of Edward Westlake (S05)

Asís Moreno Landahl (R88), a son, Asís Alexander Iñigo, on 17th November 2022

Thomas E. Heather (R97)

Thomas E. Heather (R97), a son, Thomas Pádraig Heather IV, on 10th November 2022

Oliver Lash-Williams (S04), a daughter, Cecilia Rhiannon Lucy Lash-Williams, on 20th July 2023

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William Hatton (S08)

Thomas MacGinnis (B17) and Alice Hind (C09), a daughter, Penelope Florentina Haf MacGinnis, on 20th June 2023

Joseph Mahon (B10) to Lucy Hunter Jones Thomas MacGinnis (B17) to Alice Hind (C09)

Marriages

Harriet Dahan-Bouchard (C06) to Sebastian Prior (B08)

Engagements

Peter-Paul Brenninkmeijer (S11) to Clara Sasse Harriet Dahan-Bouchard (C06) to Sebastian Prior (B08) Tom Heaven (C01) to Alice Macmillan Tim Holloway (S75) to Pamela Robinson-Holloway

Tim Holloway (S75) to Pamela Robinson-Holloway

Peter-Paul Brenninkmeijer (S11) to Clara Sasse

Tom Heaven (C01) to Alice Macmilan

James Moules (B11) to Harshada Makena

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Deaths I. F. Albert (S53) on Tuesday 11th April 2023, aged 87 L. G. R. Albertini (R49) on Sunday 3rd July 2022, aged 89 K. F. Ault (B49) on Monday 20th November 2022, aged 89 J. B. Butler (R54) on Tuesday 3rd January 2023, aged 86 M. P. Calascione (B49) on Saturday 1st July 2023, aged 92 N. E. Carew Hunt (U69) on Sunday 15th January 2023, aged 71 R. J. M. Carson (C52) on Tuesday 18th April 2023, aged 88 W. J. Christmas (S66) on Friday 8th July 2022, aged 74 J. H. Coxon (R53) on Wednesday 5th 2022 October, aged 86 L. J. J. Crofton (C75) on Tuesday 18th April 2023, aged 88 M. H. R. Cronin (B54) on Wednesday 30th November 2022, aged 86 D. M. Cuthbertson-Smith (B59) on Thursday 22nd October 2020, aged 79 R. J. Deacon (U69) on Saturday 6th August 2022, aged 71 F. I. J. Fairlie (R43) on Friday 29th July 2022, aged 97 G. M. Hatch (HonOG) on Tuesday 11th October 2022, aged 97 E. F. Hazebroek (S53) on Sunday 14th January 2023, aged 87 N. V. Henfrey (B47) on Tuesday 14th February 2023, aged 93 J. F. P. Hickman (B57) on Thursday 3rd November 2022, aged 83 M. P. Hill (B77) on Sunday 4th September 2022, aged 62 M. J. P. Hill (Ra69) on Monday 26th September 2022, aged 70 S. Hindson (Ra82) on Sunday 28th May 2023, aged 59 M. R. G. Holmes (R57) on Sunday 24th July 2022, aged 83

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A. M. Johnson (C50) on Wednesday 3rd May 2023, aged 90 M. C. Joyce (C46) on Thursday 25th May 2023, aged 94 D. H. Kenyon-David (S59) on Wednesday 29th March 2023, aged 81 J. King (U81) on Monday 18th April 2022, aged 59 D. S. L. Larcher (C59) on Friday 10th March 2023, aged 80 C. M. Lind Holmes (B56) on Wednesday 17th May 2023, aged 85 N. P. Martin (R52) on Wednesday 20th April 2022, aged 87 C. S. Matthews (C59) on Sunday 9th October 2022, aged 79 R. S. McNally (R78) on Sunday 11th February 2023, aged 62 B. Pickering (HonOG) on Sunday 25th June 2023, aged 81 A. E. M. Shorter (B50) on Sunday 29th January 2023, aged 90 P. N. St Leger Moore (B67) on Thursday 1st December 2022, aged 73 R. H. Thompson (C54) on Thursday 22nd September 2022, aged 86 M. J. M. Wakefield (B61) on Friday 16th September 2022, aged 78 J. G. Wells (C55) on Tuesday 21st March 2023, aged 86 R. A. Bodoano (C56) on Friday 7th July 2023, aged 84 M. P. U. R. MacKenzie (B55) on Friday 21st July 2023, aged 86 J. Cross (HonOG) on Saturday 29th July 2023 J.B.V. Grayson (R50) on Monday 21st August 2023, aged 90

Requiescant in pace It is with our apologies that J.H.H. Cooper (S65) was incorrectly listed as deceased in the 2022 edition of TOG.

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OBITUARIES JOHN ALBERT (S53) 1935 - 2023 John was born on the 24th June 1935. He was educated at Worth Prep School, and Downside under the renowned Headship at the time of the late Dom Wilfrid Passmore.

At Downside, in his last year, he became Head of Smythe House, and in his final two years, he played for the 1st XI hockey team and the 1st XV rugby side, one year of which was, I believe, unbeaten. He much enjoyed all team games, and the Combined Cadet Force (CCF), but hated gym! He also discovered a lifelong interest in debating, and in studying History and English. After Downside and National Service, as a commissioned officer in the 3rd Carabiniers and a year’s sojourn in Italy, he went up to Oriel College Oxford, on the recommendation of his History teacher at Downside, Dom Aelred Watkin, who had advised John to study Medieval History under the tutelage of Billy Pantin, with whom Dom Aelred had a close connection. John always said that both Dom Aelred and Billy had a huge influence on John and his future, both of whom he greatly admired.

John was much influenced by his Benedictine education, the foundation for his profound Roman Catholic faith, which meant so much to him and was the cornerstone of his life.

After taking his degree at university, by good fortune, John

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landed a job with a Public Relations company, operating in what was an emerging sector, where his outgoing personality, cerebral dexterity and clear thinking served him well. He had to learn fast, but always said that Medieval History taught him to think outside the box and that the very great trial of final exams at Oxford proved excellent training for the future.

He managed creative accounts with an incredible array of clients, first with F J Lyons, then at Charles Barker Lyons, where, as International Director, he was involved in dealing with the integration of legislation after the United Kingdom had joined the European Economic Community.

My family and I were privileged to attend John’s wedding in Normandy to his beloved Anne.

It was an amazing event, held in the beautiful and ancient Abbey of Bec, and followed by a wonderful lunch in the grounds of the family chateau; a truly joyful occasion with an abundance of Old Gregorians, University friends, and members of Anne’s large family present. We feasted into the small hours, and a great time was had by all.

John and Anne created a loving, welcoming home at Sherlocks in Sussex for themselves and their four children, supporting also his mother and much-loved sister, Rosemary, who was very much involved with the Parish of Worth Abbey.

John remained faithful to his

Benedictine roots, with Worth very close as a Parish and school for his two sons.

When he set up his own company a few years later, he decided to make it his business to allocate time and effort towards various charities and extramural activities: Cabe, Kulika, FitzRoy Support, St Mary’s School Ascot, the Old Gregorian Society Trust, to name but a few, and of course Oriel College. There he was elected a Fellow and finally, to his greatest delight, an Honorary Fellow, in recognition of his considerable support for Oriel.

He was vibrant, good company and courteous to all, a loyal friend, who loved high-quality debate and good humour. He was a devoted husband and father. He will be greatly missed by many.

With God’s grace, we shall all meet again merrily in the Heavenly Kingdom, and how exciting that will be.

John Scanlan (S54)

RACHEL CARTER 1952 - 2022 Rachel was born on the 21st April 1952, the fourth child of Roger Bevan, Downside’s Director of Music at Downside from 1953-83.

She attended Leweston where she made a number of lifelong friends, and from there to Trinity College of Music in London. On leaving Trinity she was soon involved

on the Yorkshire TV series ‘Learn to Sing’.

After marrying John Carter (C63), Rachel prioritised family life, settling in Somerset after a period in Scotland. She took the decision to forgo her singing career for a time to spend more time at home bringing up her children Hugh (B99) and Benedict (B01).

During this time, she was able to teach private pupils at home and this led to a second career as a singing teacher. Starting at All Hallows Preparatory School, she took on Prior Park College, as well with several of the pioneering as Downside, where she taught for early music ensembles that were coming into prominence during the twenty-seven years. Rachel loved 1970s. She sang with the Clerkes of her time at Downside and there can Oxenford, The William Byrd Choir, be no better tribute to her than that of the Head, Andrew Hobbs, who the London Oratory Choir and the said of her at Prize Day in 2021 on Monteverdi Choir. She recorded as her retirement: a soloist soprano with The Taverner “Rachel Bevan has been a singing Choir, Pro Contine Antique and the teacher here for twenty-seven years, Schola Gregoriana of Cambridge.

She was also the soprano in Donald but as we all know she has been so much more. It is hard (in fact Swann’s quartet in his UK tour. impossible) to think of anyone who As an established oratorio soloist specialising in baroque and classical has contributed more generously across just about every aspect of repertoire, she appeared both life at Downside or had a greater at home and abroad, in the BBC Promenade concerts, and joined the impact on our pupils or indeed our English Concert on their World Tour whole community. There is no one who sees the world through more in 2000. youthful and optimistic eyes than As a young soprano, she backed Rachel, she cannot fail to brighten Queen on Bohemian Rhapsody and your day”. continued to receive royalties for She formed the girls’ Chamber her TV appearance in I, Claudius in Choir on the advent of their arrival 1981. On a lighter note, she was a belly dancer on the Basil Brush Show at Downside and was justifiably proud of the number of her pupils and also displayed vocal technique

who gained choral scholarships to universities. For a short period, Rachel was also the House Mistress of Caverel. She particularly loved that time, finding it one of the most rewarding and fulfilling periods of her life. Rachel was also a prominent figure in local politics, being elected for two terms as District Councillor for Chilcompton and Stratton-onthe-Fosse.

As well as her love of the School and its pupils, Rachel also loved the Abbey and its Community. She took on the mantle from her father of arranging the music and choirs for the great masses at Christmas and Easter and so it was fitting that her funeral took place there in October 2022. The many hundreds who attended were testament to how she made an impression on people’s lives from all quarters.

An album entitled Vidi Speciosam, performed by Rachel’s nephews and nieces in The Bevan Family Consort, was released in May 2023, dedicated to her and her close brother David (R68), who died a year earlier.

John Carter (C63)

LINDSAY JOSEPH JOHN CROFTON (C75) 1960 - 2023 Born 3rd September 1960, Indonesia. Died 9th April 2023, Melbourne, Australia Lindsay’s early years were spent

TOG 2023 19

both personally and professionally.

He recently enjoyed contacting the Old Gregorians in the city.

In 2022, Lindsay started a new phase of his life working for MNG Solicitors with offices in Melbourne and Ballarat, a role that he enjoyed hugely.

It was obvious to Grahame and Gill, his brother and sister, that in the last years of his life, Lindsay was the happiest he had ever been.

Lindsay’s wit, intellect and kindness will be sorely missed by family, friends and work colleagues. in Indonesia, Nigeria, Dublin, Surrey and Berkshire.

When he was a teenager, his family moved to Manchester, and for a short time, Lindsay called Istanbul home.

Lindsay’s education began in Lagos and continued at the Oratory Preparatory School in Berkshire, followed by three years at Downside. After his family moved North, Lindsay attended Manchester Grammar School.

Lindsay studied Law at Bristol University and his early career was in Human Resources moving with work between Solihull, Manchester and Sevenoaks in Kent.

Later in life, Lindsay returned to the legal profession moving to Melbourne, Australia, to study for a Masters in Law. He stayed in the city and became a specialist in the laws pertaining to high-rise dwellings.

Lindsay was very much at home in Melbourne and his life flourished

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Sunday afternoons and would often work on until well after 6pm during the weeks when the workshop was especially busy. Derek taught both Year Five and Six Plunkett pupils for several years as the prep school expanded. Derek was particularly IT savvy, and was exceptional with Computer Aided Design programs, used extensively by the older pupils, as they developed their projects.

Derek was always on hand to fix and repair items brought in by monks, staff, and pupils, and nothing was too much trouble. Although never an academic tutor, Derek was adopted Grahame Crofton by Caverel House, whilst Belinda Bouchard was House Mistress, attending House dinners, and of DEREK JOHN DENHAM course the Christmas Party. He even (HONORARY OG) represented the staff at both hockey 1947 - 2023 and football against the pupils on a Derek joined Downside in couple of occasions.

September 1994, taking on the Derek was diagnosed initially post of Design and Technology with Parkinson’s Disease in April Technician. From the outset he 2021, which sadly forced him to was a breath of fresh air. His work retire prematurely in May 2021. ethic, drive, and enthusiasm for When the drugs prescribed to treat the subject made him a fantastic the condition failed to alleviate any asset. He set about revamping the of his symptoms, he was diagnosed Department and was a constant with Progressive Supranuclear presence, whilst Simon Potter and Palsey (PSP), a rare neurological I were involved in sports and other disorder. Derek fought the condition extra-curricular activities. Derek bravely, right up to the end, and I supported teaching groups in the was fortunate to visit him at home workshop, in addition to giving just a couple of days before he died, one-on-one help with A-Level and to say my goodbyes. Derek was GCSE projects, where his specialist more than just a work colleague; he knowledge, patience, and practical was a special friend, a remarkable skills were particularly useful. He man, and a true Downside legend. used to open the workshop on Father Leo and Father Michael

Nick Carew Hunt (U69) who had been a contemporary at Downside.

On the way up we stayed with Mike’s brother, Padraig in Kendal.

Our destination was Nick’s aunt’s house Craig Ben Lodge and we behaved recklessly, trying to drink Neill Barrett Rusholme, where I witnessed some the Craignure Inn dry and being of Mike’s more eccentric traits. His mistaken for poachers. clothes moved from one side to the In 1980, Mike and I had our first other of an open suitcase, without long-haul journey together and MICHAEL HILL (RA69) any sign of washing. He did not we visited New York, then on to 1952 - 2022 make notes of lectures attended Toronto, Denver, San Francisco, and In September 1965 I arrived at but only bullet points; presumably Los Angeles staying with friends or the Junior House at Downside filling in the data from remembered relations where we could. On the School and encountered, amongst facts. I was very impressed by way to LA, we met up with one of 90 others, Mike Hill. After a year this approach. It meant that he Mike’s aunts who gave us a slap-up we were assigned by the “sorting remembered things of importance to meal at the Big Sur. Mike was always hat” to our Senior Houses – Mike him and nothing else. He and Paddy surprised by his family connections to Ramsay under Dom Laurence bought a Morris Minor together, that would appear out of the ether. and me to Ullathorne under Dom affectionately named Wingletang.

By the 1980s, we all had our Gervase.

Later Mike had another with a partners and home responsibilities, Our Houses were adjacent to so our meetings were less frequent. new buildings constructed after the cherished number plate RH53. He must have been gutted when his Mike married Hellis and moved to 1955 fire. At the apex of the two mother got rid of the car stored Sidcup when Mike went to work for Houses was the art room. Mike at her home without realising that Countryside Properties where he soon found a home in the art attic the numberplate was worth many continued until he retired. They have presided over by Maurice Percival times the value of the car. Later he two children Lawrence and Chloe.

– a charismatic teacher who had purchased several MGBs which he The skiing bug hit him hard, which previously taught art at Harrow cherished, including a V8 version continued unabated until the end School for many years.

In our third and fourth years, we imported from Japan which he used of his life. Mike also loved to drive to go to the local shops. steam engines which he did yearly were required to join the CCF.You After we graduated, we had in Poland where the steam network could opt out and Mike joined Paddy to find jobs.

Mike got a job at is extensive. He would even take Twist (Ra70) in the newly created Oxford County Council and lived control of passenger trains out of Horticultural Society, a voluntary at Eynsham. In mid-1970 we saw Krakov station. service instead of the CCF. This Mike kept his friends in mainly entailed growing some lettuces and each other frequently and after Oxford, Mike moved to London to separate compartments. His old radishes on a plot of land close to work at the Docklands Development chums might occasionally infringe the residence of the domestic staff.

Corporation. In the late 1970s, we on his skiing trips but on the whole In our third year at Manchester had a memorable trip to Mull with family, skiing, work, train driving University, we shared a house in conducted his funeral, and many younger OGs and staff attended, a testament to Derek’s popularity, and a true a reflection of the affection and admiration he was held in, by so many.

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Watkin, a distinguished medieval scholar. While I went straight on to Brasenose College, Oxford, for three years studying French and Italian literature, Adrian did his military service, and as an artillery officer became partially deaf while serving in Egypt. Once discharged, he had a brilliant three years at Kings College, Cambridge, graduating with a First.

Two setbacks were experienced early on: the job he had taken at ICI was not at all to his liking, and a brief and unhappy marriage ended in an annulment. He was only reunited with his two children, Michael and Diana, in his old age. Meanwhile, his fortunes took a turn for the better: he obtained a position with the BBC Third Programme (Radio Three) as a Talks Producer, and one of his colleagues was Valerie whom he married and they produced a girl, Chloe, who grew up to become a Rupert Otten (U69) highly distinguished art historian and gallery curator, and who in turn has made a very successful marriage and has four lovely and lively children.

ADRIAN JOHNSON (C50) Adrian himself contracted 1932 - 2023 cancer in his middle years and had Adrian and I first met in Junior to take early retirement, leaving House in September 1945, just London to settle in Cornwall, after his prep school, Worth, had where his wife had family, before returned to Sussex. (He was, incidentally, one of the Worth pupils moving to Leamington to be close to his daughter and grandchildren. up on the Downside playing fields Adrian’s faith was all-important when the fighter crashed, which to him, and he delighted in being will have traumatised him.). He an Oblate of Quarr Abbey. As went to Caverel and I to Roberts, a professional Talks Producer, as he was drawn to Caverel by everything Adrian touched turned the Housemaster, Dom Aelred and painting were kept separate.

Since Mike retired in 2017, he went on a yearly painting trip to Tresco on the Isles of Scilly – a place he had never visited before despite living in Cornwall as a youngster.

Mike was always good company.

He was always keen to meet up and have a convivial evening. His sense of humour was framed by the Goons and Derek and Clive. He told good stories, particularly about driving steam engines. For many years Paddy, Mike, Nick, and I would meet up in London for a curry. At one of these events, Mike told us he had been ill but was now recovered.

I last saw Mike in July at the funeral of a mutual friend, and he seemed in good health. Little did I know that Mike would be diagnosed with terminal cancer soon afterwards and was taken away only 2 months later.

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to gold. But where my admiration for him knew no bounds was in his God-given patience with a whole range of serious ailments in so many parts of his body, and he never, but never complained. Both his heart and his mind were forever at one in his service of God. Guido Waldman (R50)

MICHAEL CAMPBELL (C46) 1932 - 2023 Michael Campbell Joyce, 93, loving husband of Gracie Long Joyce for 65 years entered into rest on Wednesday May 25, 2022, Augusta, GA, USA. Michael was born in Liverpool, England to Eric Joyce and Helen Reardon-Shepherd on Dec 21, 1928. He attended Worth and Downside schools in Stratton-on-the Fosse, Bath, England. The month before his 20th birthday, he moved to Guymon, ok to work on the Robbins Ranch as a cowboy. During the Korean Conflict, he became a naturalized American citizen, then enlisted into the U.S. Army and remained until the war was over.

He worked in the airline industry for many years and retired after 32 years at Northwest Airlines as Senior Director of Line Maintenance. Mike was a member of St. Mary on the Hill Catholic Church and Knights of Columbus, Patrick Walsh council, #677. He was also a member of various civic organizations. Michael

union power. Combining problemsolving skills as a chartered civil engineer, experience of what makes companies successful in his years as a management consultant and exposure to merchant banking at Rothschilds, Thompson co-founded with Colin Clive what was believed to be the first British company that invested in the technology sector.

The problem in the late 1970s was that there was little capital available, was a man of many interests, a few tax incentives and no appetite voracious reader, a lover of history, in the City of London to invest in genealogy, travel, music, sailing and small, unlisted companies with fishing. no track record. He persevered His family will miss him most and having squeezed money out of for his unconditional love, kindness, initially sceptical merchant banks, brilliance, and gentle guidance. pension funds and the Bank of England, Thompson knew there Submitted by Fran Blocker, would not be a second round of daughter of Michael Joyce financing.

As chairman, he built up Thompson Clive into a leading RICHARD THOMPSON (C54) international venture capital group, 1936 - 2022 with offices in London, Paris, San Respected public figures have Francisco and North Carolina to recently stressed the need for rival the more established and bigger big investment in life sciences players in the US where the sector and technology to help kickstart had emerged in the early 1970s Britain’s ailing economy post Covid. and had underpinned the growth of As a trailblazing venture capitalist in Silicon Valley.

Britain, Richard Thompson had been “There were lots of companies to doing just that since 1977. invest in but it was very difficult to A convinced Thatcherite, get hold of the money.You needed to Thompson spotted talent, make it count;” said Angus Whiteley, skills, innovation and budding with whom Thompson co-founded entrepreneurialism amid the Solon Ventures in 2005. Thompson flotsam and jetsam of Britain’s stuck to his capital efficient model failing traditional industries and when the markets became more the damage caused by unbridled buoyant and the availability of capital

surged after the deregulation of the financial markets in the City of London in the Big Bang of 1986.

The next wave of venture capitalists, following the approach generally favoured by American players, were more inclined to pull out and put their money elsewhere if the business was not profitable. “A lot of venture capitalists had a more aggressive growth outlook than Richard thought was healthy and he thought companies were often put under unfair pressure,” added Whiteley. “He was more patient than most.”

A meticulous and punctilious man who raised the cultural ante with literary quotations at meetings in the oak-panelled boardrooms of the City of London, Thompson had already built up a technology portfolio by the early 1980s. In 1982 he backed Quintiles, a North Carolina-based contract research business in the life sciences field from under the noses of rival US

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venture capitalists. He helped the company to flourish before its merger with I MS Health to form IQVIA, a £12 billion healthcare tech giant, in 2016.

Another success story is the now listed Financial Objects, founded in 1996 and providing IT solutions in the financial services sector.

Sifam, which manufactured optical instruments in the south of England, was backed for some 15 years with only “pedestrian” progress before demand for its products surged after the emergence of the internet.

The company was sold in the late 1990s for a “large multiple” of its expected value. In more recent times Thompson backed Sonic Innovations, a hearing aid and implant business that would be bought by the Danish healthcare and technology conglomerate William Demant Holding in 2010.

He capitalised on his growing reputation for raising and managing funds with an average rate of return of 10-15 per cent by co-founding Pantheon Ventures in 1982, the first British “fund for funds” company in the venture capital field, which advised funds on where to invest and who with and now has £77 billion worth of assets under management.

Thompson co-founded and chaired Solon Ventures in 2005, with a remit to back and develop UK healthcare and technology companies. During this time he guided the award-winning tech human resources start-up

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Orgvue that provides software to help organisations manage their workforces more effectively and now supports more than 100 enterprises around the world.

As mentor, adviser and friend to a generation of entrepreneurs, Thompson lived by the military maxim that “time spent in reconnaissance is never wasted”. As a result he and his wife, Cynthia, entertained, and were entertained by, the managers of the companies he invested in. He liked to say that he looked for people with their “head in the skies but feet on the ground”. If he thought an entrepreneur was taking dangerous risks, he would describe him, with reference to one of Damon Runyon’s characters, as “Last Card Louie”.

When underwhelmed by a chief executive’s leadership, he might borrow from Winston Churchill’s words about Admiral Jellicoe during the First World War to describe them as “the only man on either side who could lose the war in an afternoon”.

In business documents, he was a hawk-eyed corrector of the split infinitive. His fondness for Latin expressions such as quod scripsi, scripsi (what I have written, I have written) sometimes sent employees scurrying to their dictionaries or Google. A voracious reader, Thompson often cited Galileo, Shakespeare, AE Housman or PG Wodehouse to make a point.

Though he could be forbidding,

he was forgiving of mistakes if his staff owned up and damning if they did not. Longstanding employees described him as gregarious, loyal to those who were loyal to him, generous, fair, tenacious, tireless and go-getting.

One of Thompson’s favourite sayings was a variant from Victor Hugo: “There is no limit to the power of an idea whose time has come”. He passionately believed in the importance, post-Brexit, of a “new industrial revolution” via the creation of export-orientated, privately owned companies, which could own their intellectual property rights and control their own destinies.

He believed that Britain had a history of innovation that it often did not adequately exploit, and that there was an opportunity to build international companies in fast-growing international markets, particularly the US and the Far East. He was convinced that the juxtaposition of the rapid growth of available data, the power of computers and the mapping of the genome, which gives far greater understanding of disease and the human body, should simplify and reduce the cost of medical treatment.

Richard Thompson was born in London in 1936 to Lieutenant Colonel Richard Thompson and Violet (nee Harrison), who had competed in the Wimbledon ladies’ singles. Evacuated to Hampshire

during the Blitz while his father was stationed in India, he was waiting at a bus stop in Winchester when he spotted a German bomber overhead.

He shouted his alarm and ran home.

The aircraft duly dropped a bomb and a man waiting for the bus, who had refused to believe the young “plane enthusiast”, was killed.

At Downside School in Somerset Thompson excelled at sport and at the age of 15 obtained A-levels in maths, higher maths, physics and Latin. He wanted to study higher maths at university but his father insisted on him becoming an engineer. He won a county major scholarship to read mechanical sciences at St Catharine’s College, Cambridge, in 1956.

Thompson went on to qualify as a chartered civil engineer after joining Sir Alexander Gibb & Partners. Showing an early flair for business, he charged his flatmate Ted Reece nine pence a day for a lift in his MG from Maida Vale to Hyde Park Corner. One cold night, Thompson, leaping out of bed to close the window that Reece had opened, split his pyjamas right down

the back. Reece turned the financial tables by selling him another pair for five shillings.

These domestic arrangements came to an end in 1962 when he married Cynthia Hurst, whom he had met at a party. She survives him along with their daughters, Emma and Lucinda, who recall their delight as children when their father used his engineering skills to make them a doll’s house with an electric light.

In 1963 Thompson joined the Production-Engineering Group (P-E), one of the four leading management consultancies at the time, where he was a troubleshooter at Merrydown Cider and the hatter Herbert Johnson, and chairman of the Savile Row tailor Anderson & Sheppard.

His young daughters enjoyed his involvement with the toymaker Lines Brothers, during which Meccano, Rupert Bears and Sindy dolls were sent home. He became a director of P-E, running its corporate strategy practice. In 1975 he joined the Roth- schild Group, with a remit to expand its fledgling venture capital wing, New Court &

Partners, where he met Clive.

Military efficiency was his watchword. His daughters were not even allowed to be late for their weddings. He liked to play golf on Christmas Day when the course was deserted so that he did not have to hang around pawing the ground behind slow players of the kind PG Wodehouse dubbed “the Wrecking Crew”. His interests included military history, poetry, fishing and wine and he was once the proud owner of a gullwing Mercedes.

Thompson reflected on lessons learnt during 30 years in the field in his book RealVenture Capital (2008), but, but never really retired. After stepping down from the chairs of the data company Concentra Analytics and Solon Ventures in 2018, he was appointed chairman of Supply Vue Analytics, which provides software to cut costs in customers’ supply chains.

His energy was unflagging.

During the lockdown in 2020, he took up tennis again.

The Times

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OGs Far & Wide

Prize Day

Exeter Reunion 2023

Careers Fair

Hong Kong 2022

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Bangkok 2022

Hong Kong February 2023

Roddy Kane, Charles Bone, Howard Dilley, Nick Medlam and Robert Brech.

Madrid Dinner

British Association’s Pilgrimage Charlie Hofton (S02), Joe Daley (R87), Jonny Grew (C77) and David Dowden (R76)

Madrid Wine Tasting Group James Scanlan (S86), Francis Wardley (B09), Julian Crocker (C97) and Manuel Otero Gudino (R97)

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Polish Dinner 2022

Polish Scholar 30 Year Reunion

Edinburgh

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North Dorset

London Dinner

London Dinner

Downside Choral Society Mozart Requiem

Under 35s

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Back to Downside

Here are just a few of this year’s visitors

Chris Eke (C85) and Father, John Eke

Joanna Dowali (I20)

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Federico Gonzalez Unter (S04)

Geroge Hobbs (R17) and Oxford University Rugby Team

Constantin Salm-Salm (C98)

Tom Shorland-Ball (R05)

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OG Netball v the School Super Saturday

Mateusz Kaputska (R20) at Downside School for his Sixth Form Lecture

St Gregory’s Society AGM

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Dr Paul Humberstone and Alan Molloy

Owain Daley (R21) with Manquehue

Various OGs with Kings

Kevin Kelly (R77), Sean Kelly (R75) and their families visiting from America

Khalik Al-Kareem (S22)

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OG News 1951 John Lyle Cameron (B) and his wife, Shirley, née Liddell, celebrated their Diamond Wedding Anniversary on 16th February 2023.

1953 Michael Abbot (C) has received this year’s Papal Award, Pro ecclesia et Pontificie at Notthingham Cathedral.

1959 John Collier (B) has served over 35 years volunterring with a prisoner charity, The New Bridge. Originally founded by the famous Catholic Peer and Prison Reformer, Lord Longford, in 1956. John has also been involved in setting up an innovative multi-agency project for the community resettlement of high risk prisoners.

1956 Ian McNeill (C) and Sally nee Holliday celebrated their Diamond Wedding Anniversary on 20th April 2023.

1957 Paul Marner (S) has been inducted as a Life Member of the College of Family Physicians of Canada in November 2022 after starting his medical career in 1957.

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Rev. Francis Pole (C) having retired as Joint Senior Chaplain to the SE Coast Ambulance Service in December 2021, has now rejoined as Chaplain, and still serves two parishes in Crawley.

1960 Anthony Pontifex (S), having been Master of the Worshipful Company of Armourers & Brasiers in 2004-5, and the fifteenth member of his family to be Master, is now the Father of the Company.

1961 Jeremy Cowdry (B) is a Musketeer in the Honourable Artillery Company of Pikemen & Musketeers one of six Royal Warranted Bodies and the Bodyguard of the Lord Mayor of the City of London.

Having previously rehearsed Operation London Bridge, Operation Unicorn replaced the arrangements as Her Majesty, Captain General of the Honourable Artillery Company died in Scotland.

This allowed for an additional 24 for cleaning equipment and to arrange hotel accommodation rather than sleeping on the floor at Headquarters. Over 60 members of the P&M paraded on Saturday at Mansion House and formed up at the Royal Exchange for the reading of the Royal Proclamation.

27 members of the HAC Reserve Army Unit marched in the Funeral Procession as Her Majesty had been our Captain General.

Jeremy has been fortunate to have participated in two Presentations of New Colours parades, two Royal Reviews, and a number of other events by Her Majesty. After serving as Vice President of the HAC Boston Association responsible for facilitating the HAC’s relationship with the Ancient & Honourable Artillery Company of Massachusetts in Boston for a decade and a half,

After 12 years of missionary work in France, Michael Fitzgerald (B) and his wife, plan on returning to Great Britain. They intend on moving to Whitchurch, Hampshrie, and buying a house from an OG.

he recently retired. He was able to congratulate the new President of the Association General Sir Patrick Sanders, a former Worth Boy, and Chief of the General Staff. Jeremy mentioned he went to Worth in 1951 and he had joined the HAC in 1962 before Patrick was born in 1966. He received a gracious response.

1963 It has been announced that Pope Francis has asked Fr Timothy Radcliffe (S), former Master of the Dominican order, writer, and preacher to lead a 3-day retreat for the world’s bishops as they prepare for the 2023 Synod in Rome.

1964 Robert Brech (R) has received a Queen’s Award for Voluntary

Service (the MBE for volunteer groups) from the Lord-Lieutenant of North Yorkshire. The 2022 Platinum Jubilee award was given to local charity Alne Parish Leisure Association in recognition of its forty years of service to the community of Alne in establishing, running, maintaining and improving the sports and leisure facilities in Alne (12 miles north of York).

Robert has been the Honorary Treasurer for all of its forty years.

Fr Anthony Trafford (C) celebrates 50 years of priesthood on 7th July 2023. After studying at the English College in Valladolid, Spain, he was ordained in Clifton Cathedral & worked in the diocese of Clifton.

He has spent the last 26 years on mission in Australia & Oceania with the Neocatechumenal Way. 1965 Major General Arthur Denaro (R) has been appointed an Extra Equerry to His Majesty King Charles III.

1966 During the past year many Rory Merry’s (R) photographs have

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appeared in leading print and electronic media around the world. Most of the images he photographs at the moment are wildlife. However, Rory’s portfolio covers a wide spectrum from Northern Ireland’s Battle of the Falls, high goal polo at Guards Polo Club Windsor, Berkshire, Indian Relay to Fiji Islands. Rory is listed as one of only eighty four photographers by Zuma Press Wire as a contract photographers. Rory says his education at Downside School equipped him to have all the necessary skills, values and resilience to prosper and succeed in this highly competitive field and a fast changing world. Rory’s photographic work covering over 53 years can be seen at his own website.

1970 Peter Agius (Ra) is still Administrator/Webmaster for the Lay Community of St Benedict and has added Root & Branch (a forum for reform of the Roman Catholic Church), Catholic Women’s Ordination and Catholic Women’s Council to his portfolio of websites. In September he helped to organise a reunion of Worth Preparatory School boys, most of whom are OGs, to mark the 90th anniversary of the Worth Foundation in 1933. In October he helped to run the lay-led ‘Spirit Unbounded’ Synod in Bristol, run in parallel with the Synod of Bishops in Rome.

1971 Jeremy Thomas (Ra) has released a podcast called Shed Talks. It includes fifteen episodes about mental health.

These are available through Spotify, Apple, Google and via his website.

1973 Bill Addington (B) has recently retired as a Director of Consulting Engineers Tony Gee and Partners in Kuala Lumpur but remain in Malaysia with his wife Sally. They would love to hear from any OGs passing through Kuala Lumpur.

1975 Guy Wrench (U) has become a trustee of Soi Dog UK, the UK arm John Spiller (R) is currently engaged of Asia’s largest dog and cat rescue centre. He remains founder director on the creation of numerous rally of Stop Eating Dogs, established event routes. For example, classic to fight the dog and cat meat trade marathon events, the Badawi Trail across Asia.

– the first trans Arabia motor rally 7,500 kms (Aqaba, Jordan to Dubai 1978 via Muscat, Oman), Peking /Paris Mark Farmer (S) has set up an Motor Challenge 2024, the 1,000 independent domestic energy advice Miglia (Mille Miglia) Experience company called Energy Ideas for UAE and the Abu Dhabi Desert anyone who is either worried about Challenge (Cross Country Rally 1969 their energy usage, their domestic Matthew Burt (U) has great pleasure World Championship – W2RC). footprint or both. He covers Dorset, in launching Making from the Somerset, East Devon, Wiltshire and Collection, a selection of favourite Hampshire. pieces. Matthew and his team will be presenting some of these timeless 1979 classics over a long weekend at the Willie Hartley-Russell (S) became beginning December and invites chairman of Berkshire-based charity everyone to join them at their The Almshouse Association in June Hindon Studio.

2023.

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1983 Peter Farrell (S) has founded a brand marketing & communications firm in the US called Alice & Albert - inspired by the creative wisdom of Alice & Wonderland and Adrian Sibley’s (R) candid and the imaginative science of Albert revealing insight into the private Einstein. Peter continues to produce life and public career of Richard Harris in, The Ghost of Richard Harris, and perform music. His children have also gotten the bug. Quinn (age was premiered at this year’s Venice 14) is a piano player and drummer, International Film Festival. Where and Clara (age 17) singer, piano and each of his three sons, Jared Harris produces EDM. (C79), Jamie Harris (C81) and Damian Harris (C75), brought their 1985 perspectives to the screen.

Alexander Chisholm (C) - Cabinet Office Permanent Secretary - has 1982 been awarded a knighthood of the William Cash (C) won the 2022 Order of Bath in recognition of his PPA Independent Publisher of the public service.

Year award for ‘Writer of the Year’ for his work at The Catholic Herald where he has been editor-in-chief since 2021. He is a two time winner 1987 of ‘Editor of the Year’ and the author Ben Bevan (B) has recently directed a CD of Catholic Polyphony, Salva of three books, the latest being a memoir, Restoration Heart. He was Sancta Parents by the Victoria Consort. chairman of the Herald between 2018 and March 2023. In 2022 he became a member of the Order of Malta. He is married to milliner Lady Laura Cathcart and has two children at Moor Park School near Ludlow, founded in 1963 by two Old Gregorians, Hugh Watts (B40) and Derek Henderson.

1988 Colonel M P David (U) is currently Ramón Pérez-Maura (C) is a deployed in West Africa as an founding member of the online Operational Commander providing Spanish newspaper ElDebate.com support to partner forces countering where he is editor.

1981 Desmond Bloom-Davis (U) has been appointed a Course Tutor with the Judicial College.

violent extremist organisations, predominantly in the Lake Chad Basin region.

Parametric Architecture featured Enter Projects Asia’s rattan installation in Chiang Mai Art Gallery in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Director, Patrick Keane (R), said ‘We sought to create an immersive experience, giving the space a warmth and depth uncharacteristic of conventional art galleries’.

Patrick has also been awarded the ‘Luminary Award’ by Indesign Media Pacific. The award recognizes “exceptional contributions and a trailblazing spirit which have left an indelible mark on the world of design & architecture”.

1989 The Honorable Daniel Brennan (S) has been featured in PR Week’s Top 10 UK Luxury Public Relationships Directors for the 6th consecutive year.

Simon Freegard (B) has recently opened a professional sharpening service business called Sharper Focus Ltd.

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Edmund Sumner (B) is a photographer specialist in architecture. His image is being used as lead for the famous architect Norman Foster’s shows in Paris.

1993 In May 2023, David (S) ran the Devon Coast to Coast Ultra Marathon. The race is 112 miles nonstop from Wembury to Lynmouth, crossing the whole county and two national parks with a 40-hour time limit. David came 1st in 26 hours and 23 minutes. David is a solicitor in the city of London and runs a very successful practice, Fenchurch Law.

Alastair Watson (C) has just finished a year contract working at the Royal botanic gardens, Kew and is now working for an events company, mostly on sporting events. Alastair has competed in the UTMB in Chamonix, France this September.

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1995 This year, Ruairi O’Connell (U) has been appointed as International Director at the Financial Conduct Authority and as Director of Rugby at the Kosovo Rugby Federation.

1999 Hugh Carter (B), Benedict Carter (B01) and Harry Ross (B16) have come together as The Bevan Family Consort alongside 12 other Bevan cousins and produced an album in memory of David Bevan (R68) and Rachel Bevan, both of whom were extremely influential for the present generation of singers and with a long-standing relationship with Downside, which is at the core of the Consort. David and Rachel’s father, Roger Bevan, was the Director of Music at Downside for 40 years.

2006 Harried Dahan-Bouchard (C), classical portrait painter, was featured in Bath Life. She shares her lockdown experiences, including her side hustle of illustration, which later led to working with Osprey London as their illustrator for their Christmas window and cards.

Thomas Scott-Gatty (R) is a Registrar in Psychiatry at the Devon Partnership NHS Trust. He lives in Devon with his wife and three sons.

2008 Daniel Justin (B) has been appointed Director of Music of St Mary’s Cathedral in Sydney from October 2023, leaving his current job as Master of Music for the Diocese of East Anglia.

2002 Charles Hoften (S) has received a medal from the Knights of Malta.

He has been a stalwart figure in the OMV over two decades. Since first going to Lourdes in 2001, he has volunteered in many aspects of the pilgrimage, including Equipe Leader, Soutien and Ward Co-ordinator.

Charles has also been to Lourdes with the British Association of the Order since 2017 as a Team Leader.

2004 John Harris (B) and Joe Le Beau have created Harris Le Beau, a new independent estate agency business.

2010 Paul Reynolds, father of Lewis (R03) and Roland Reynolds (R) died on the 30th of December 2022. He was a devoted parent at Downside

for 14 consecutive years, attending countless spiritual and cultural events over that time.

2011 Joanna Hornik (I) and her partner completed a long cycling tour of Europe in 2022. From April to September, they cycled from Bourdeaux in the south of France, through northern Italy, Slovenia, Hungary, Austria, Czechia, all the way to Gdansk in the north of Poland, with a total of almost 5,000 km.

Richard Grew (R) received a medal from the Knights of Malta. He has never faltered in his commitment to the OMV over the past ten years, including serving as an Elected Member in 2015. His constant and unwavering commitment has helped the OMV’s activities to flourish.

Lodovica Von Freyberg-Eisenberg (C) has been accepted for the role of Biodiversity Conservation Intern at IUCN. 2016 Magdalena Adamowicz (I) has passed her Medical School Finals and has become a Doctor. Magda starts her two year foundation programme at Princess Alexandra Hospital in Harlow.

2014 Rachel Holmes (C) has been appointed Vice President of South West Women in Property.

2012 Henry Erling (B) made his Solemn Profession as a Cistercian Monk on 15th August, the feast of the Assumption, at the monastery Stift Heiligenkreuz, Austria; he is known as Pater Anastasius.

2013 Ana del Real (I) has secured a role as MUN Teacher at Eton School Mexico.

2015 Andrew Pullicino (S) achieved the Bridge Watchkeeping Certificate, effectively a Warship Driving Licence and is to be the Gunnery Officer of a Minehunter.

William Hardwood (B) has received a Distinction (First) in is MA Law course at the University of Law. He is hoping to complete his Corporate Governance exams by the end of this year.

Sam Higgs (S) graduated from King’s College London with a PGCE in Religious Studies and now teaches at Gresham’s.

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Freddie Hobbs (S) became a Member of the Royal Victorian Order, as announced on the Honours List on The Demise of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, known as the Demise Honours.

2017 Since finishing her undergraduate degree, Emma Bingham (I) has completed her Masters in Archaeology at UCL (receiving a distinction) and intends to start a PhD on First World War Archaeology in the Middle East at Cardiff University in October.

2018 Humphrey Francis-Jones (B) received an Apprentice Ambassador Award for his work at Savills.

Angus Christie (R) long held aspiration was to join the Royal Navy and the CCF and wider staff at Downside inspired him to achieve this goal, but also prepared him well for his military training. He joined Britannia Royal Naval College this January, and his time there was hughely informative. He has recently Brendan Murphy (B) has started passed the Admiralty Interview working as Operations Assistant at Board (AIB) this year. The AIB is a Queens Park Rangers F.C. stage of the joining process that is specific to officers. It is designed 2019 Anastasia Cottrell (I) graduated from to assess their suitability to join the Royal Navy as an officer against a Exeter University with a 1st Class set of six core competencies. He has Meng in Mechanical Engineering. commissioned as an Officer into the Royal Navy, and is hughely excited 2020 Kofi Barton Byfield (B) played in the for his future there. winning Exeter Univeristy Rugby Team in their qualifying and Quarter Final matches for the BUCS Super Rugby Championship 2023.

Felix Hobbs (S) produced his second play with Two Ladders Production.

The play, Dot Dot Dot Dash, was performed in the Leconfield Hall and The Rosemary Branch Theatre this year after a successful Fringe Run.

William Carrick-Buchanan (S) has just graduated from Exeter with a Firs for History.

Ethan Morgan (B) is now playing rugby for Hunter Wildfires in Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia.

Josh Higgs (S) graduated from Lancaster University with a BSc in Economics and an MSc in Finance.

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2022 James Carrick-Buchanan (S) has just completed his first year at the Royal Northern College of Music where he is studying to be a concert pianist.

Max Surry (R) played in his debut match with the Under 20’s Scotland Rugby Team this year.

The Memorial Service for the 80th Anniversary of the Downside Air Crash 1943 On Saturday 20th May 2023, a Memorial Service was held at Downside to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the Air Crash, followed by the Downside 1st XI v The Downside Wanderers cricket match.

The actual anniversary day was Monday, 15th May 2023, where Fr Leo, Chaplain to St Gregory’s Society, kindly shared his thoughts and memories in the Old Gregorian News on the Downside website.

safe arrival back in England, the young Lethbridge went off to Bath for a last-minute organised lunch.

Whilst he was having a delightfully happy celebration with his father and family, the accident occurred.

When a roll call was taken, there The 20th of May was glorious in its was a degree of consternation as to sunshine yet with a bit of a spikywhat had happened to the young chill wind. I found myself arriving Lethbridge, only to discover upon at Downside in good time after a his arrival back at the School, no pleasant night’s stay in an Airbnb in one had registered his departure for Shepton Mallet. I had quite forgotten lunch. Christopher always felt he was what an intriguingly old village lucky in comparison to the nine boys Shepton Mallet is with its various who were killed and those injured, street levels and old houses. along with the memory scars left for many boys.

Upon my arrival, I was joined by Christopher Lethbridge (R46), the only living Old Gregorian able to attend who was at Downside at the time of the air crash. Even then, he had not been present. He told me that he thought he had been pretty lucky because, on that fateful day, he was in Bath. His father had managed to escape from a POW camp and to celebrate his

One of those left with memory scars was my father, Brian Leeper (C44), who was known as “Shag” because of the state of his hair. He was a boy who played rugby well (a War Blue at Cambridge) and a hockey goalkeeper with a mischievously flailing defence.

When it came to cricket, he liked to hit a cricket ball as hard as possible on every shot as he thought the game otherwise could be a little too slow to his liking and less exciting. He was not in the 1st XI! That day, he had wandered up to the cricket field to watch the game being played with some of his friends.

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By all accounts, from stories I have listened to from other OGs of his generation, most now R.I.P., he was a much-liked boy with a great sense of humour and regarded as a good leader.

Young David Michael Jennings was sitting next to my father, as some of the younger boys would have wanted to do as part of their sense of admiration, looking up to the more Senior Boys in the School.

My father was sitting on the upper bank on the left of the Pavilion looking down onto the pitch, when the Hurricane being flown by the young New Zealand trainee pilot, who in a series of ‘follow the leader’ low passes lost control, clipping the “Long Shrubbery” trees at the back of the upper playing field around the 2nd XI pitch.

As the Hurricane hit the ground, a part of the aircraft separated from the disintegrating plane. In a flash, poor Jennings was left decapitated with a further bit of the engine or fuselage missing my father “by a whisker”.

There was instant, total confusion and initial consternation for a moment in those seconds that seemed like an eternity for many My father’s recollection was one of present that day. The chaotic scene “a scene of mayhem and slaughter” very quickly turned into a feverish, that would leave him with deeply disturbing nightmares for most of the yet orderly rescue with little in the rest of his life. He didn’t want to talk way of any panic other than in the about it much (if at all) until after the very early moments. More stories 50th Anniversary Memorial Service from those present are recorded elsewhere. There is a particularly at Downside, which he described vivid account written by Ivone as one of the most cathartic experiences in his life. He likened it Peter Kirkpatrick (C48) in his brief, very readable, self-published to a deep release. autobiography, One Boy’s War. One day, he talked more revealingly One story I picked up from another about the accident to me. What OG some years back, when the plane he described as happening left me had come to its death-bound halt feeling heart-rendingly shocked on the playing field. Several boys, for him. It gave me something of with their natural curiosity getting an insight into the direction that he the better of them went up close took in his early adulthood and the to the crashed plane. Other senior personal problems that he had to boys were running, shouting at them meet and overcome with immense to get away! These young boys had courage. not realised that the smouldering

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plane had fuel still in its tanks. The explosion that then rocked the playing field took the lives of more boys and injured many others.

The picture below was sketched

by Lance Thwaytes (B43) after the event as he recalled it and is held in the Downside Archives. I only fully appreciated its significance as regards my father this year when I was examining it closely on my laptop with magnification. It looks like Jennings is shown on the bottom right laid out with his head ‘disconnected’ from his body.

One of the boys also seriously injured was Keith Stokes (C43). My father told me that he had carefully picked him up and began to carry him down to the emergency makeshift infirmary in the school. Whilst barely conscious, he appeared not to be in any pain. Stokes was still breathing lightly, but during the walk down he died in my father’s arms. It was a deeply and personally saddening moment for him. The sketch shows a tall boy carrying one of the injured. It very likely shows that moment when Stokes was being carried by my father.

The thoughts and memories shared

by Dom Leo Maidlow Davis, are a moving and touching memorial, also mentioning Stokes’s death.

Many years later, after the 50th Anniversary, my father used to

an interestingly heroic marriage of two parts. A story for another time.

reflect upon his sadness that he could never summon the strength (and no doubt courage to surmount his latent continuing grief) to write to Stokes’ parents; to let them know that their son had died very peacefully in his arms with no visible pain. I hope that in some way if a close relative of the Stokes Family does read this article, it will bring some small piece of comfort that my father wanted to give Stokes’s parents a letter,

but psychologically just could not manage it.

The scars did run very deep as I have discovered when meeting other OGs whose fathers were present.

For a number, the word “alcoholic” is presented as its slow ugly aftermath.

In those days of the War, there was no understanding of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. In my father’s words, everyone was experiencing the War with some experiencing far worse.

“We carried on! We got on with life as best as possible!”.

It is no surprise that my father was a deep alcoholic until February 1961.

Then, he went into respite and remained in sobriety for the rest of his life, dying of “old age” at 87 with me and my mother, Judy Leeper at his bedside. She, holding his hand as he peacefully slipped into death, ending 63 years of what I describe as

Another final part of my father’s story: whenever he visited Downside to see me or my brothers playing rugby or cricket, he would invariably ‘disappear’ for a short while.Years later when I began attending the Downside Easter Retreat & OG Reunion, my parents would come along as well. Again, he would disappear until one year, by then needing a wheelchair, he asked me to take him to the Cemetery. He explained that on every visit to Downside, he would spend a little time there, remembering his friends and praying for them.

The Memorial Service was deeply moving in a moment of quietness with prayers and hymns, led by Downside School’s Chaplain Fr. Michael Patey with the Head Boy and Girl, Freddie and Anna attending, along with the Head, Andrew Hobbs and a small choir. We, the “OG Family”, some with friends, were in various ways remembering the Boyhood Friends, or Fathers, or Uncles connected with the events on that fateful day.

A group of willing volunteers from The Downside Combined Cadet Force provided a Remembrance Guard with the Last Post being beautifully played. A remembrance poppy was laid on the graves of each of the nine boys and the trainee pilot.

TOG 2023 43

Michael Bagot Quinlan

Philip Humphrey Rose

Keith Edward Stokes

Sub-Lt Alan Cairnhill McCraken R.I.P

“This Mount Fuji Cherry Tree was planted to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the air crash, where nine boys and a pilot sadly died on 15th May 1943. “ We pray for the repose of their souls, and all buried in this monastery graveyard.”

Picture from the Old Gregorian News posted 15/05/2017 from the Downside

Picture from the Old Gregorian News posted 15/05/2017 from the Downside Archives. The archive Archives.The archive material held relates in the main to the experiences and material held relates in the main to the experiences and eyewitness statements. One boy also drew two pictures of the accident, oneboy of them above. eyewitness statements.

One also shown drew two pictures of the accident, one of them

shownLeeper above.(C76) James During the service, mention was made of the more lasting Memorial, a Mount Fuji Cherry Tree, otherwise called a “Weeping Cherry”. Its installation had been kindly agreed upon by the Abbey Trustees. Thanks must also go to Jess Newman, Downside Director of Development, who as a result of the anonymous gift appears to have been tireless in obtaining the permissions and in coordinating all aspects of the Service.

root interference with the graves; no one was quite sure which was the correct story. At the beginning of one Summer Term, it was no longer there.

This new weeping cherry tree appears to have been positioned very carefully, outside the cemetery curtilage on the lawn with enough space to grow to its potential, 20m in height. Ultimately, it will have its boughs and branches flattening out at the top offering a wide canopy The new tree reminded me of, of shade. I understand that in the when I was a boy at Downside, a Spring it will bear beautifully scented lovely ornamental pink cherry tree white flowers. In addition, the that used to blossom in May. It was Head Groundsman had deliberately positioned in the bottom left internal planted it in line with the graves corner of the cemetery by the path of the ten and when looking junction opposite Ramsay House (as approximately 90 degrees to the it was then) entrance doors to the right, also in line with the Abbey’s stairwell. The tree died suddenly Lady Chapel. At its base, a plaque has or had to be dealt with because of been inserted into the ground:

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In November, 80 daffodils will be planted around the base of the tree and, thereafter, each year in November during the month of All Souls, a new daffodil bulb will be planted by the School. As the bulbs split under the ground over the years, there will become a tremendous, circular silent cacophony surrounding the tree.

The symbolism is (and will be) spiritually stunning because the Japanese Cherry Tree is the embodiment of beauty and mortality.

It symbolizes both life and death, beauty, and violence, weeping with sorrow and joy.

When reflecting further on this memorial, I think the (metaphoric) symbolism also works on so many different levels. For instance, when after the dead of winter, in the Spring there will be a resurrection of life, full of vitality and vibrancy ascending from the daffodils with their golden and white trumpets, up into the short-lived blossoming tree seeking the heavenly rewards of paradise and eternal, peaceful rest.

Perhaps in years to come, some may sit under The Weeping Cherry and its great canopy of Spring flowering surrounded by the quiet trumpet blast of the daffodils, or the shading leaves in the Summer and remember to say a prayer before they depart. In 20 years, at the 100th Anniversary, God willing with my body and soul, I think I would like to do that.

Lady Chapel about the day and its unfolding. Having been inducted into the “Sodality of Our Lady” at Downside, I have always found the Lady Chapel to be a very prayerful place to review, reflect and reconcile myself with Christ, through the intercession and invocation of The Blessed Virgin for His Healing Love and Divine Mercy.

I joined Fr Michael Patey, as he had to return a music stand to the sacristy area, where he very kindly allowed me to accompany him through a part of the Abbey I had never seen before. I wanted to visit the Lady Chapel; my “10 minutes” on every visit to Downside. He then left me for a few moments whilst I had a ‘brief conversation’ with Our Lady at the foot of the steps of the

As we wandered slowly up to the Cricket Pavilion afterwards, arriving on the 1st XI playing field, at Noon, the Angelus bell rang from the Abbey Tower, reinforcing my reflection on my own awareness and sense of remembrance and bereavement on many levels.

The School and OG teams and those of us who had come up

from the cemetery gathered at the Pavilion where a short service of prayer took place, led by Richard Jones, Director of Sport. There was another sounding of the Last Post, again beautifully played and even more mellifluous as the notes rolled across the cricket field. I was watching quietly from a distance at the spot where, by coincidence (according to the sketch), I think my Father is pictured carrying Stokes.

It was hard not to imagine that day on the 15th of May 1943 that resulted in such tragedy and sadness, yet, so importantly, we pray and hope for the joy in eternal life in God’s Kingdom of Heaven for those we were remembering: James Leeper (C76)

Hugo Michael Dearlove

David Michael Jennings

Graham Norman Letts

David Hugo Lowndes

Laurence Joannis McNabb

Brian Richard McSwiney

Michael Bagot Quinlan

Philip Humphrey Rose

Keith Edward Stokes

Sub-Lt Alan Cairnhill McCraken

R.I.P

TOG 2023 45

JAZZING UP LIVES SLAUGHTERHOUSE SEVEN & CHUFF BYRNE If you’d walked into the Hatchett Inn, near Lower Chute, on the rainy but warm evening of 22nd July 2023, you would have been surprised by an unlikely looking but very enthusiastic jazz band.

Holding the front line were just two members, a young sax player and a trombonist perhaps 60 years his senior. The youngster, who was clearly a keen and able jazz musician, was attempting to imitate every move of the trombonist who he had only met for the first time an hour earlier. Afterwards he was heard to declare that despite having played eight gigs in the past three weeks, this was his favourite, and his new friend was declared a genius. He had just experienced the infectious enthusiasm of someone very special.

On that same night in the back line, the drummer, banjo player and pianist, were together playing in public for the first time since they entertained a school in New Zealand back in 1992. As teenagers they had played over 100 public concerts together and would freely say that those represent some of the happiest memories of their schooldays. The band they played in the “Slaughterhouse Seven” ran from 1972 to 2009, with generations of Downside School pupils passing through it over the years, all with

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their own stories. And all this, was thanks to the efforts of that same man.

If you’d happened to attend the Albert Hall School Proms in 2012, you’d have witnessed seven children between the ages of 10 and 13 warming up with Trouble in Mind before launching into a foot stomping performance of Everybody loves my baby that Louis Armstrong himself would have been delighted by. The older gentleman on piano is that year’s Classic FM Private Music Teacher of the Year - and was quoted as saying “I am thrilled to be receiving this award as it endorses the philosophy of my old Army band master which is ‘Music is fun, for everyone.” From 2009 until the present day, generations of Farleigh School pupils are now creating new memories with the bands Pond Life and the Thundering Herd. It is that man again.

At this point it’s time we gave him a name - let’s call him ‘Chuff’ because everyone who has ever been taught by him is told there’s no “Sir” or “Mr Byrne”, it’s always ‘Chuff’.

many things, differently. One can never be sure how much of this is performance, because Chuff is always the performer, and how much is simply who he is. But what is for sure, is without being different, Chuff would just be the same … and suddenly, many wonderful stories and memories have disappeared.

They say genius cannot exist without a touch of madness and if you’ve been taught by Chuff, you know he does some things, perhaps even

At age 15 Chuff (C66) founded his first serious band, the Yardmen, on the 11th of February 1963 with his friend John Molony (B66). Pupils

In the Summer of 1966, the time at Downside School, they practised to do this purely by listening to came for Chuff to leave Downside, recordings and analysing them. three times a week in the old band room during times when they were One piece in particular Chimes Blues but the Yardmen kept going with defied his early transcription skills. an array of performances (the last unlikely to be disturbed, jazz being For the musicians reading this - the being at Ealing Town Hall) before frowned upon at the time. It was finally calling it a day on 7th January sixth bar of this Bb blues is altered therefore with slight irony that 1967 after four years, 180 the first tune they could band practices, and 25 play well was the Christian gigs. Their repertoire had hymn When the Saints go Chuff ’s bands at Downside developed over the years and Marching in, albeit in a style have either directly or their favourites now included that wouldn’t have been Tiger Rag, Basin Street Blues, heard in many churches. indirectly supported the and I Can’t GiveYou Anything They were influenced by the but Love among many others. trad jazz revival happening raising of approximately in Britain in the sixties led by the likes of Kenny Ball, £380,000 for various charities Chuff then completed four years’ service in the Band Chris Barber and Acker Bilk. of the Royal Hussars before Chuff’s favourite band at the leaving the army at the end of 1970 from the usual expected Eb chord time was The Temperance Seven and moving to Dublin. In Dublin (although there were nine of them), to E diminished - hence providing but his attempts to get the Yardmen an effective rising bass line to Bb/F he was organist and choirmaster of the Sacred Heart in Donnybrook, in the next bar. A young Chuff to play their numbers such as and taught brass at St Columban’s in Pasadena were met with frustration struggled with the E dim chord Rathfarnham. He then moved on to only realising what it was when due to their complexity. teach brass, piano and run a choir later writing this piece out for the at St. Gerrard’s Prep school in Bray.

It seems obvious to those who have Slaughterhouse Seven. Let this be He also taught science to Common encouragement for us all - even been taught by him, that Chuff Entrance level - a subject that was Chuff had to start somewhere! Of has always been able to play every course, nowadays he could have just to come in useful for the improvised instrument, arrange music, and found the chords on the internet explosives he employed as a feature transcribe any jazz style. However, but in 1965 he had to take the long of his Downside big band - the Wet in fact in the early years he had to Look String Vest Band. road. learn like anyone else and tended

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It was at this time that Chuff had a motorbike accident, and his right leg was quite severely damaged. Chuff has always credited the surgeon, a Jimmy Gallagher, with saving it, although it has continued to give him some trouble ever since. Being Chuff however, the slight limp that can be noticed by the observant, only adds to his character.

This brings us to 1972 when Chuff applied to teach brass back at Downside and Roger Bevan appointed him. The founding of the aforementioned Wet Look String Vest Band was immediate, and their first numbers included Pasadena, Saints, and Tiger Rag …. Many other bands, too numerous to mention, were created over the next 36 years; but one stood out as his pride and joy - the Slaughterhouse Seven.

For decades, on arriving at Downside and entering the music practice rooms in the Theatre, you would see hundreds of pictures up displaying the history of Chuff’s bands. Those who were enthusiastic would then listen to the recordings that had been made over the years, and soon you would know the names and faces of the great jazz musicians who had been before. If you were very keen you would dream of becoming part of the history of the Slaughterhouse Seven and one day having your own picture up perhaps as part of one of the famous international tours.

The name of the Slaughterhouse Seven was invented by Lenny

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Campbell-Lamerton (C75), who later played rugby for Scotland in the Five Nations Cup. However, it became a standing joke that there was rarely seven people in it - and more usually nine. Coincidence?

Many’s the time the confused public would ask “Why are you called the Slaughterhouse Seven when there are nine of you?” But despite the mathematical anomaly, that name went on to be known in the 180 different UK towns and cities and 83 international locations the band played in. Tours included New Zealand, Australia, South Africa,

France, Germany, Hong Kong, USA, Malta, Belgium, Spain, and Ireland.

Each one of these tours produced a lifetime of memories for those involved.

However, it didn’t all start like that.

The first gig was at Saint Joseph’s Hall in Stratton for which the band were paid £10 and 3 pints of milk in the winter of 1975. Within two years though they were featured on the BBC and HTV West (ITV), with the bursar at Downside not impressed by the amount of fuses the BBC lighting crew seemed to be

blowing in the theatre. This wasn’t to be the last TV appearance and features in Hong Kong, Spain and New Zealand followed over the years to name just a few.

Slaughterhouse Seven musicians had had an excellent musical grounding here before joining Downside and it was at this School that perhaps Chuff’s greatest hour lay before him.

There have been many talented From 1975 to 2007 the musicians in Farleigh bands such Slaughterhouse Seven played a total as the Thundering Herd and Pond of 316 different pieces and went Life over the past 14 years, I am through 239 musicians including 21 sure. However, my experience was drummers, 18 banjo players, 24 alto in 2018 when I found out Chuff was having a 70th birthday bash sax players, and 23 trumpeters. at Farleigh School and the school bands would be playing. Turning up Chuff’s bands at Downside have I was astonished at what I heard. either directly or indirectly Two Farleigh old boys had turned supported the raising of up, Rory on Clarinet and Freddie approximately £380,000 pounds on Soprano Sax, and displayed a for various charities including level of musicianship that left me CLIC (Cancer and Leukaemia speechless. It was then I learnt of in Children), NSPCC, Oxfam, the School Proms performance of UNICEF, Downside’s Bermondsey 2012 that they had played in, which Boys Club, Teenage Cancer Trust, and the Motor Neurone Disease can still be seen on YouTube. The fun Association. They have helped to I watched the bands having as they raise a further £850,000 for the played at Chuff’s birthday do was a familiar joy to see and chatting to Order of Malta Volunteers via playing at the White Knight’s Ball for some of the music staff there, I could tell this was a music department 18 years. to behold. How Chuff had inspired children of this age to this level of In 2009 Chuff left Downside and performance I could not fathom. I switched his efforts to Farleigh remarked to Chuff later that day that School, an outstanding Prep I was convinced this was his greatest school for children up to age 13 achievement. near Andover. A fair few former

And now in this final paragraph, dear reader, I hope you don’t mind if I intrude and make a second appearance myself in this story.

When my son was three years old, I sat him at the piano and told him that I was going to teach him music differently, as I had been taught it. I told him all about the beautiful gift I had been given that had given me thousands of hours of happiness, and that I was going to pass this gift onto him. In June this year he finished five years in junior conservatoire, at the Royal Northern College of Music, and is now off to university to study a music related degree. This summer he travelled to the South of England, where on a rainy but warm evening he walked into a pub, near Lower Chute, unpacked his alto sax and waited patiently until an old man arrived who, taking out his trombone, told him with jazz music what I have been unable to put into words here. It was one of the happiest nights of my life.

Further recollections can be found here – www.slaughterhouseseven. co.uk Matthew Oates (S92)

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Training as a safari guide Hello fellow OGs, my name is Maddy (I17) and I am currently on a six-month placement at Garonga Safari Camp in Makalali Private Game Reserve, South Africa, working as a field guide. At this moment, I’m sitting outside my farmhouse accommodation, waiting for hyenas to sniff out the impala remains that are lying nearby, but I’m going to wind you back to how this all started.

During Sixth Form at Downside, I was planning my gap year, what to study at university and, as I’m sure many of you experienced, I was trying to plan my life out at 16 years of age. Sadly, Veterinary Science wasn’t an option for me

50 TOG 2023

(many thanks to my chemistry teachers for their patience with me when I couldn’t get above an E), so the career advisors suggested I studied Zoology instead. Following two months volunteering in South Africa, and a month in Namibia in different conservation roles during my gap year, I then spent three years obtaining my Zoology degree at the University of Reading. During this time, I was following Harry Travers’ (R16) journey with Bushwise on social media, as he gained his Apprentice Field Guide qualification in South Africa. Towards the end of university in 2021, I was browsing jobs in the UK and was met with the classic advertising of “graduate entry-level” jobs, which requested a range of additional qualifications and/or master’s degrees, making the whole job-hunting process seem a bit hopeless. I quizzed Harry on his experiences in South Africa and he recommended that I take the leap and sign up for the course, so I eventually did. I must

also mention my fantastic biology teachers (namely, Mrs Murphy and Mr Pattison) for inspiring me in the classroom and encouraging me to pursue this path.

Having booked the 12-month course with Bushwise, and a one-way flight to Johannesburg, I prepared to leave on 5th January this year. The first couple of weeks at the Southern African Wildlife College (SAWC), near Kruger’s Orpen Gate, were spent getting settled on campus, learning wilderness first aid and finally getting out for a game drive with our experienced trainers (all ex-safari guides). The rest of the six months at SAWC were spent learning bird calls, identifying plants, studying animal tracks and handling .375 rifles, amongst other things, all leading towards gaining my FGASA Apprentice Field and Trails Guide qualifications. After all our exams and assessments were completed, I and seven other students spent two weeks walking

in the Timbavati Game Reserve with the Lowveld Trails Co., logging walking hours and Big 5 encounters towards our Apprentice Trails Guide qualification, which was an incredible experience. We spent the first ten days in an old farmhouse, one of very few that haven’t been drastically modernised, with paraffin lamps to light the house at night, and one electric plug to charge phones etc. and most meals cooked over an open fire or braaied. Sitting out next to the fire discussing our experiences each day, looking up at the vastness of the night sky with hyenas whooping in the distance (or right outside my bedroom window, as happened most nights) was a most

special and fitting way to end our initial training period. The last three days of this course were a primitive trail, meaning we slept out in bivvy bags for three nights, focusing more on immersing ourselves in the bush than on logging big game encounters. At night, a tiny fire would keep company the person on watch, whilst they listened to approaching animals and the rest of us slept. With no phones or watches allowed on primitive trails, we used a “bush watch” with only a minute hand to help with this night duty and allowed our bodies to fall into their natural circadian rhythm.

After this time on trails and two weeks at home in England, I flew back to Johannesburg to begin my placement, which forms the second half of the 12-month Bushwise course. I was lucky enough to be placed at Garonga, near where I was trained, so thankfully all the flora and fauna are the same! The lodge is owned by an Englishman,

who seems to have great (blind) faith in my abilities, as I was guiding guests within three days of arriving.

Luckily, I always have a tracker to guide me along the many roads of the reserve, as well as helping to find the Big 5. Most guests do seem a little unnerved when I follow my tracker through the bush on foot, often following trails of rhinos or lions, whilst they remain alone on the vehicle (not for too long, I should add). But it offers a great learning opportunity for me, to see how the trackers work and spot animals tracks and signs in the thick and rocky bush. I have already had some great sightings and learned so much in the four weeks I’ve had so far at Garonga, and I can’t wait to see what the next few months have in store. Sadly, I can’t fit all of my stories into this article, but if anyone reading this is interested in a safari, I’d be happy to share a few around the fire when you make it out here.

Madeleine Prior (I17)

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Exploring Alpine Adventures:

A JOURNALIST’S JOURNEY IN MORZINE

Stephanie Windeler, Freelance video journalist and producer with features and news packages in The Associated Press, The Telegraph, The Guardian and The Economist.

Looking down at my feet dangling some-3000 metres high above the French ski resort of Morzine, I started to think about the iconic scene from Bridget Jones:The Edge of Reason. If you’ve never watched the film, Bridget Jones is on a reporter assignment. With a camera strapped to her helmet, her unassisted jump turns into a skydiving fiasco after nearly missing the moment to pull open the parachute. Parachute deployed she falls straight into a pig pen…

Well, that thought definitely helped keep my mind preoccupied for a few minutes while we took off into the air off the side of the mountain.

Luckily for me, there are no pig pens below, just patches of snow and a lot of chalets.

This is a tandem paraglide - guided

by Albert, my instructor who thankfully has around 40 years of experience. Takeoff involves running down the mountain until the wind sweeps you into the air. Albert made me take this photo and I’m so glad he did, or there would be no images to prove I did it! Our landing is pretty straight forward – a thud as

52 TOG 2023

we hit the ground at the bottom of the ski slope onto the somewhat atypically patchy snow which remains cushioning the landing.

This natural landing zone is the reason why I’m filming a feature for The Associated Press in the first place.

Filming various activities from guided ski tours with eagles to horse-drawn rides, I edit together the footage I’ve filmed to create a 8-minute video and accompanying article for global broadcasters and online news outlets to air.

This is now my second time in the Alps covering features. My job is to A lack of snowfall in the Alps due to pitch and find a visual way to expand on the headlines. This year, I also warm weather across Europe saw the closure of ski resorts at the start covered property prices post-Brexit of the year. The feature I pitched was in the French ski resort, avalanche dog training, a day in the life of the to see what else is on offer when snow is limited as temperature highs ski patrol, energy saving measures across the resort and the impact accumulate.

of the cost of living crisis on alpine tourism.

On day one, I travelled up the mountain to the allocated dog training area on the slopes. Avalanche victims (in this case thankfully for exercise purposes only) were buried underneath mounds of snow for two dogs to rescue. In this photo, you can see the moment rescue dog Tash jumps into action into the snowcovered cave. To record what was happening inside, I gave a GoPro to the ski patroller being buried while I recorded what was happening on the outside.

Rescue dogs Nell and Tash were quick to find the volunteers, although, Tash being the youngest out for the two, still had a little to learn and kept them waiting underground until she caught a scent.

When I’m not filming news features, I have also produced and edited videos for The Guardian, The Economist and The Telegraph’s video desks. This year, I worked on several short documentaries including: Russian resistance to Putin, the war in Ukraine, China’s response to Covid, a range of matters relating to climate change, the infamous Partygate and the King’s Coronation.

After leaving Downside School, I attended Oxford Brookes University followed by a Masters in TV Journalism at City University, London. I began my career as a News Assistant at The Associated Press covering international news.

TOG 2023 53

This year, I worked on several short documentaries including: Russian resistance to Putin, the war in Ukraine, China’s response to Covid, a range of matters relating to climate change, the infamous Partygate and the King’s Coronation.

From there, I went into producing for the features desk covering a range of topics before being given the opportunity to film stories for worldwide distribution.

I love working in journalism for its variety and creativity - each day is different and you continually learn about the world, while expanding your own key skills. From isolating a story and finding a unique and interesting way to build its components, to creating compelling footage. Not forgetting the organisation that goes into setting up interviews and shoots and the conversation had with contributors.

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It has been incredible to be part of an integral part of current affairs and video news media. The skills I’ve developed in writing, filming and photography have proved handy when I decided to set up my own company which I launched in February, 2023 - an online homeware brand called Marla & Primrose. I divide my time working on both careers and continue to learn and grow in both industries.

Stephanie Windeler (I12)

OGs in Madrid Last year’s Triennial Madrid dinner was similar in some ways to the previous twelve, with black tie, moving speeches and a sizeable number of last-minute joiners. In Spain we don’t like to commit more than a few weeks ahead lest we miss out on sudden superior calls of duty or fun, such as birthdays, stag parties, weddings, anniversaries, hunting, the wine harvest, a cruise, etc., so we are in fact really very lucky to have any Spanish OGs turn up at all! The last-minute organisational chaos required all sorts of last-minute adapting to nut, gluten, and dairy allergies that would otherwise threaten to generate several really peeved puffer fish faces amongst our guests.

The formal black-tie dinner took place at the esteemed Real Gran Peña, boasting an impressive turnout of over one hundred guests, including OGs, partners, relatives, parents, and friends. Attendees indulged in a delightful three-course meal, followed by Grace led by Jonathan Grew (C77), President of St Gregory’s Society, who also offered the Royal Toast. Once the meal concluded, the President

expressed gratitude to everyone present and highlighted the event’s 30-year history.

medal at Prize Day, mentioned earlier in this publication.

Moreover, last year’s dinner Aware that this might be my father’s resonated more remarkably over final dinner due to his limited time, setting off a series of positive mobility, I seized the chance to thank social developments: the expansion him for his years of dedication to the of a WhatsApp group encompassing Madrid Downside dinner weekend. 60 OGs (initially established by The resulting warm ovation was a Nacho Martínez-Cortiña (S88)— touching moment. Following the if anyone wishes to join let the event, my father received the OG Development Office know), the

TOG 2023 55

serves as an excellent starting point for savory OG-led tapas crawls along the adjacent Ponzano Street. and on a trip to Jerez I was very well looked after by the Marq brother Ilmo. Alvaro Moreno Landahl.

ar in some ways to the previous twelve, with black tie, moving speeches In Spain we don’t likeFernández to commit moreGarcía than a fewWith weeks lest we At Doble y Gilda: OGs Emilio Pardo & Fernando de León.

OGs OteroLuckie Gudino, Julian Croker, Emiliode Fernández Pardo & his wife Fátima OGManuel David ahead Fraser at his party in El Puerto Santa María OG Asis Moren un, such as birthdays, stag parties, weddings, anniversaries, hunting, the Winemaker Manuel Gudino (R97) makes prolific number wines under MOG Selections, a good num OGslast-minute haveofgarnered media attention recently, with E eally very lucky to have Otero any Spanish OGs turn upaJerezano at all! The us painstakingly try togluten, keep up with them,allergies as well other winesotherwise in sporadic ofas Cádiz.

Sherry labels sold bytastings.

Peter & Paul Dauthieu (Sánche -minute adapting to nut, and dairy that would received mention by Jancis Robinson in the Financial Times e ffer fish faces amongst our guests.

The advantage of the Triennial Madrid dinner is not just alongside Leona by the Garcías de León.

the restoration of old friendships, but the creation of new

esteemed Real Gran Peña, boasting an impressiveBut turnout it’s notof allover boozeone with OGs, apart from Alfonso Zurita (R91 ones demonstrating that the OG communal can tives, parents, and friends. Attendees indulged inDameto a delightful (R96)threeis a Professorbond of History and we had a memora an Grew (C77), President of St Gregory's Society, who also offered the Richard Kagan, arranged by MOG. easily establish itself across different years. esident expressed gratitude to everyone present and highlighted the

ner due to his limited mobility, I seized the chance to thank him for his inner weekend. The resulting warm ovation was a touching moment.

G medal at Prize Day, mentioned earlier in this publication.

OGs: Manuel Otero Gudino, Francis Wardley, Julian Croker, Fernando Dameto, Borja de la Quintana.

OGs: Francis Wardley and Julian Croker

remarkably over time, setting off a series of positive The event also facilitated unexpected encounters.

Thesocial visit of the Honorable Danny Brennan (S89) from Lond grouptoencompassing 60 OGs (initially established by Nacho Martínezinteractions with Excmo. don Alfonso Zurita de Borbon (R91), the King of Spain's cousin and a prolific auth he Development Office know), the introduction of an OG sherry named has written several books in Economics, Politics, and international relations. Brennan partook in an OG Frida crawl and even completed a halfFernando marathon(C89), on Sunday.

Impressively, García de León family, including Chito (C93), andIban Ortuzar (S88), who had done no re OG Historyestablishment Professor Fernando Dameto, MOG marathon & History Professor Richard Kagan specific marathon training beyond mountain trekking (he hadn’t run a half inEmeritus a decade), successful ilda, founded

by Emilio Fernandez Pardo (R90).

This crossed the finish line alongside Danny. y OG-led tapas crawls along the adjacent PonzanoThe Street. advantage of the Triennial Madrid dinner is not just the r

ones (e.g. MOG (R97), Borja de la Quintana (Ra93), Julian Cro León (C89), Emilio Fernandez Pardo (R90), and myself have bond can easily itself across yea Hon.Danny D. Brennan &establish Excmo.

Alfonso Zurita dedifferent Borbon MOG, orbon MOG, Nacho Martinez-Cortiña, Santi Rotaeche & Danny communal Brennan Brennan withD. Iban Ortuzar James Scanlan (S86)

Passing El Puerto de Santa Santa María, I caught up with David Fraser Luckie (R87)through who set up a grand BBQMa p and on a trip to Jerez I was very well lo ry well looked after by the Marquis of Mortara, Asis Moreno Landahl (R88) & his brother Ilmo. Alvaro Moreno Landahl.

Landahl.

Nacho Martinez-Cortiña, Santi Rotaeche & Danny Brennan

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Danny Brennan with Iban Ortuzar

OGs Manuel Otero Gudino, Julian Croker, Emilio Fernández Pardo & his wife Fátima

ght be my father's final dinner due to hisMOG, limited mobility, ISanti seized the chance to thank him Hon. D. Brennan & Excmo.

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is a Professor of History and we had a memorable chat with Johns Hopkins’ Spanish History Professor, Richard Kagan, arranged by MOG.

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QUEEN ELIZABETH II FUNERAL 19 SEPTEMBER 2022 Accounts from three Old Gregorians on their involvement in the proceedings Operation LONDON BRIDGE – the funeral of her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II died on the afternoon of Thursday 8 September 2022. My appointment as a Gentleman at Arms in the Honourable Corps of Gentlemen at Arms was in 2018, and even then, we knew, because we rehearse it every year, that when the Queen died operation LONDON BRIDGE would be called and everyone would be required to report to St James’s Palace for duty within 24 hours of the announcement of the death. The balloon having gone up I was on the next train to London.

Operation LONDON BRIDGE is very detailed, well planned, and properly rehearsed. People said after the event how polished and slick the whole thing was. This is because, in good British military fashion, there was a plan, everyone knew their place in it, and everyone knew the intent. There was no need for any flashes of initiative and the whole thing did go like clockwork. My part in it was small but nonetheless a great honour.

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The first parade was on Sunday 11 September when we all marched into the Chapel Royal in St James’s Palace, and we swore our allegiance to the new King. Once that was done, we could then get on with the job at hand. The following ten days leading up to the funeral on Monday 19 September were a solid pattern of sleep eat rehearse parade sleep eat rehearse parade etc and ad nauseam.

My first duty was as a member of the “Preliminary Watch” in order to be present in Westminster Hall when the late Queen’s coffin arrived. I was one of six.

Following this my first vigil on the catafalque was from 18.00-23.59 on Wednesday 14 September.

The vigils were mounted by a combination of Household Division Officers, Gentlemen at Arms and (always outside the inner ring of officers and holding the ground) the Yeomen of the Guard. These are the people that look like Beefeaters but are very much not, the Yeomen of the Guard having seen action whereas the Beefeaters have not.

This is something that they are always at pains to explain.

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If you watch the footage on the BBC iPlayer, you will notice that the only uniforms standing up and bearing arms close to the King at the funeral and St George’s Chapel at Windsor apart from his own family are the Gentlemen at Arms carrying the axe and sword that are our usual weapons and wearing the high swan plume of feathers.

There are only 28 Gentlemen at Arms but there are 300 men in the Royal Company of Archers, the sovereign’s Scottish Bodyguard and they did some of the vigils later on. My second vigil was from 06.00 on Thursday 15th September to midday following which my division (under the Lieutenant, or Commanding Officer of the Gentlemen at Arms) were on rehearsals for the interment of the late Queen’s body at Windsor and then for the main funeral at Westminster Abbey. Fortunately, I had a day off on Sunday 18 September and slept and ate all the way through it.

The big day dawned on Monday 19th September. It was clear and bright, and we were on parade early my day comprised what can only be described as two very glamorous but very long ‘stands’, in Westminster Abbey and later at St George’s Chapel at Windsor.

As the King’s personal bodyguard, we guard his presence on state occasions and as the King was

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to be present at the funeral, we provided the ‘close in’ personal bodyguard to him. If you watch the footage on the BBC iPlayer, you will notice that the only uniforms standing up and bearing arms close to the King at the funeral and St George’s Chapel at Windsor apart from his own family are the Gentlemen at Arms carrying the axe and sword that are our usual weapons and wearing the high swan plume of feathers. After the funeral at Westminster Abbey was over, we were onto a bus and ‘blue lighted’ by motorcycle outriders to Windsor by the fastest route while the funeral cortege and the Royal hearse took the slow route down the A30 to Windsor. We were again on parade 40 minutes before the late Queen’s coffin arrived.

As is often the way with such big events it is difficult to remember much about it but the most vivid memory that I have strangely enough is marching off parade after the internment at St George’s Chapel and being ushered into

the Deanery in Windsor Castle by a friendly looking cleric who later turned out to be the Dean of Windsor. We had tea and Victoria Sponge in his lodgings, and we then got back on the bus to London the operation was now complete and we left Windsor to the family and the final interment of the late Queen in the Chapel with her mother, father, sister and husband.

Life is about being in the right place at the right time, with the right luck and in the right order of dress and my being part of the King’s bodyguard for the funeral of the late Queen was the most extraordinary honour and privilege, easily the greatest of my life (save for marrying Diana).

We now look forward to the coronation of King Charles III in June 2023.

Lt Col (retd) J P Brooke (Ra82)

The World on their Shoulders Her Majesty’s Bearer Party When members of The Sovereign’s Company landed at Gatwick Airport, few had fully grasped the enormity of the task ahead.

The squat buildings peering out of the morning mist were a stark contrast to the dusky expanse of Iraq to which we had become accustomed. Each member of The (then) Queen’s Company had always been aware of our solemn role in Operation LONDON BRIDGE, but to know that we would be the ones to perform these quietly-planned duties was rather surreal. Queen Elizabeth was our Company Commander, this role was our final duty to her, and we were the Grenadiers representing our Regiment in front of the whole nation and the globe.

Whilst we were airborne, other cogs began to turn. So once gathered in the UK we could immediately commence briefs, recces, and training, while rest became a lower priority. We started in the newly installed gym in Lille Barracks, Aldershot, using boxes, bedsheets, and Olympic bars to replicate the Catafalque, Royal Standard, and Rollers, respectively.

Although rudimentary, this approach was essential for ensuring that the basics were understood and committed to memory early. We progressed to a replica catafalque in Hyde Park Barracks and the drill square of Wellington

Barracks for the procession route between Buckingham Palace and Westminster Hall.

These run-throughs culminated in three Early Morning Rehearsals (EMRs), the crucial preparation before the Lying-in-State Procession and the Funeral, Funeral Procession and Committal Service.

Held before most residents of London or Windsor had stirred from their beds, these offered an opportunity to march the routes for real, highlight any frictions and ensure that details could be refined. Twice marching almost two miles at 0300 through empty central London in full Home Service Clothing to a melancholy and repetitive melody was a bizarre experience. Combined with bearskin-obscured vision and the cyclical nature of one’s existence, in

the darkness it was easy to slip into a dreamlike state, briefly forgetting the significance of what we were doing. That is, until a misplaced step, a cough, or a bead of sweat, brings reality back. The Windsor EMR was slightly less hallucinatory, though our tense route into the Castle belied the infamous stairs that awaited us.

Continuous practices normalised both the locations we were in and the people we were alongside: the Lord Chamberlain, the Speaker of the House of Commons, or the Archbishop of Canterbury. Often it would only be after an interaction that we realised how important an individual might be. In such an environment it was immensely reassuring to have several experienced former Grenadiers in other ceremonial roles. Alongside

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the pallbearers, they were a steady hand and a kind face to turn to.

Our thanks are extended to them particularly, as well as all who did so much to make our lives more manageable.

Our thanks particularly also go to all the members of the Royal Family we interacted with.

They were immensely kind and accommodating, particularly before moving Queen Elizabeth’s coffin into Buckingham Palace the night before the Lying-In-State procession. It was touching to get a sense of the family behind the events, and the difficulty in sharing such a private and emotional aspect of your life in such a public manner.

The procession was the first occasion where we were on the world stage. It is hard to comprehend the concept of the scrutiny of four billion pairs of eyes, especially when it feels, in a rather surreal way, like they are watching your ‘command appointment’. Our comfort was to trust in our collective preparation and personal presentation. This really sunk in as we left Buckingham Palace’s sheltered quadrangle onto the forecourt, and we had our first glimpse at hundreds of thousands of people who had come out to pay their respects. Throughout the procession, it was emotional to see how deeply so many had felt about their Monarch, as well as to truly realise the gravity of our duty

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in front of so many people saying goodbye.

In Westminster Hall, we had a long stand as the many Members of Parliament commenced the LyingIn-State procession. Whilst this was occurring the mission-critical cap orderlies, like any good Grenadier, seized the initiative and secured a private tour of the Speakers’ House, by the Speaker himself.

They revealed this on the coach back, prompting good-humoured congratulations.

The culmination of all our preparation was, of course, the Funeral, Procession and Committal Service; the most complex of our duties. There were many intricacies and nuances: the sailor-drawn gun carriage; a variety of stairs and corners, and the two distinct phases in London and Windsor. During brief periods of respite in siderooms, we mentally ticked off the moments of particular technicality, before gathering ourselves, looking to our next cue and preparing to march back into the view of a myriad of lenses. Key moments were checked off in sequence: the awaiting sailors; the ‘about-turn’ to move out of Westminster Abbey; the long procession requiring intense concentration to keep time with a difficult rhythm; the careful move onto the hearse and our swift move up to Windsor where the steps of St George’s Chapel awaited us, intimately familiar from rehearsal yet still daunting.

Each event came to pass, and soon enough we were sitting drinking tea and watching a live stream, trying to make sense of what we had just done.

Throughout all our experiences, the thought of seventy years of service and dedication helped us all to set aside the stress and pressure to focus on performing our individual roles. It was our immense privilege and honour to be entrusted to carry out and be part of the events. The ceremonies gave crucial closure to all Her Majesty's subjects and admirers across the globe. We will be eternally grateful for our involvement, and they are experiences that will live with us all for the rest of our lives.

However, with the events of those two weeks fresh in our memory, we immediately were looking onward; many of us returning to Operations in Iraq immediately to re-join members of His Majesty’s Company.

Second Lieutenant R F M Hobbs (S16)

This article was originally published in The Guards Magazine December 2023, and is reproduced with the authority of the author.

Jeremy Cowdry’s Account Jeremy Cowdry (B61) is a Musketeer in the Honourable Artillery Company of Pikemen & Musketeers one of six Royal Warranted Bodies and the Bodyguard of the Lord Mayor of the City of London. Having previously rehearsed Operation London Bridge, Operation Unicorn replaced the arrangements as Her Majesty, Captain General of the Honourable Artillery Company died in Scotland. This allowed for an additional 24 hours for cleaning equipment and to arrange hotel accommodation rather than sleeping on the floor at

Headquarters. Over 60 members of the P&M paraded on Saturday at Mansion House and formed up at the Royal Exchange for the reading of the Royal Proclamation.

27 members of the HAC Reserve Army Unit marched in the Funeral Procession as Her Majesty had been our Captain General.

Jeremy has been fortunate to have participated in two Presentations of New Colours parades, two Royal Reviews, and several other events by Her Majesty.

After serving as Vice President of the HAC Boston Association responsible for facilitating the

HAC’s relationship with the Ancient & Honourable Artillery Company of Massachusetts in Boston for a decade and a half, he recently retired. He was able to congratulate the new President of the Association General Sir Patrick Sanders, a former Worth Boy, and Chief of the General Staff. Jeremy mentioned he went to Worth in 1951 and he had joined the HAC in 1962 before Patrick was born in 1966. He received a gracious response.

Jeremy Crowdry (B61)

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KING CHARLES III CORONATION 13 MAY 2023

Operation GOLDEN ORB – the coronation of his Majesty King Charles III and her Majesty Queen Camilla Having already written about my part in operation LONDON BRIDGE the inevitable consequence was that the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III would follow as night follows day. The crowning of the new Monarch follows the death of the old one since time immemorial.

Operation GOLDEN ORB is the name given to the preparation for the coronation and the event itself, which took place on Saturday 6th May 2023. Completely unlike the funeral, we had plenty of notice that it was going to happen, and all the planning could be geared towards the single day.

The funeral took ten days to complete following the death of the late Queen Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and a lot of work had to be done in a very short space of time. The two main differences were that the funeral was (for me) six very long parades including vigils and the services themselves, with six big rehearsals over ten

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days. The Coronation however was the day itself split into some small parts with three rehearsals.

Unlike the funeral where I was on standing duties all the time, for the coronation I had the honour to be in the military procession that went from Westminster Abbey to Buckingham Palace and into the Buckingham Palace Garden following the service itself. Rehearsals were good fun.

The first was around the town at Aldershot, the second one was for the full parade around the airfield at Royal Airforce Odiham and the third was overnight between 00100 and 00430 on the morning of Wednesday 3rd May. This was surreal in that we all arrived to get changed after midnight and we marched from our mess in St James’s Palace, through St James’s Park and over to Wellington Barracks from where we were to step off from our assembly point on the morning of

the Coronation itself. London was crowded even at that time in the morning and the shouts of ‘make way for the King’s bodyguard’ drew a lot of attention to say nothing of the red uniforms and glittering weapons. By the time we marched back dawn was beginning to break and we caused more of a stir as no one had expected to march troops in the early hours of the morning.

The day itself passed off without a hitch. Everyone knew where they needed to be and in what order of dress and when. We were marched into Wellington Barracks very early and we stepped off from there with the other formed contingents during the Coronation Service itself, so we were in position outside St Margaret’s Church just beside Westminster Abbey with about thirty minutes to go before the King and Queen came out and mounted the gold State Coach.

You will all have read about the significant moving parts where troops were coming in on trains

...being part of the parade to celebrate the Coronation was truly a great honour. from various camps in the south of England and arriving at Waterloo.

We were very lucky to be based forward of all this and close to the action.

This being England predictably the rain started as we were reaching our forming up point, but this did not do anything to dampen enthusiasm or excitement. The funeral had been quite a sombre affair from start to finish but the noise from the crowds for the coronation was huge and everyone was cheering, with bands playing and people stepping out. The only slight wrinkle in the plan I saw was

that the Garrison Sergeant Major Vernon Stokes was competing with the pealing of the bells when he was giving the order ‘Coronation Procession, by the centre, quick march!’. I do not know how the Guards Division in front of him heard the words of command, but we all stepped off in good order.

The best bit if I can choose one is as we marched under Admiralty Arch and faced down the Mall to Buckingham Palace. The tempo of the marching increased as did the volume from the crowds and the noise of the bands with 7,000 men women and horses all moving in

the same direction in the same step listening to the same music.

The final destination was the Buckingham Palace Garden where the whole parade was formed up for King Charles and Queen Camilla to come onto the balcony at the rear of Buckingham Palace for a rousing ‘three cheers’ before we marched off the parade to our various great fun lunches and drinks parties.

As with the funeral and being appointed to the Gentleman at Arms life is about being at the right place at the right time and being part of the parade to celebrate the Coronation was truly a great honour.

Lt Col (retd) J P Brooke (Ra82)

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This year we were very fortunate as we could go for the whole seven days, which meant there was much more freedom to do many more activities with the guests. Such as Lac de Lourde, where all the volunteers and guests went on a day out to a lake, in which they went swimming and had a picnic.

The OMV’s main aims are to give the opportunity to younger volunteers the help people with disabilities, and this also enables for the families of the guests to have some respite. There are three main aspects in which the OMV focuses on which are Care, Spiritual and Social. The care aspect involves duties like helping guests get ready for the day, accompanying them to mass, and participating in various events.

The spiritual dimension is central to the pilgrimage, we celebrated Mass together in a different location each day. Some masses were very moving, such as the laying on of hands. The pilgrimage also attended two processions within the week, the candlelight procession being one of my main highlights.

The OMV fosters a strong sense of community. We interacted extensively with guests and fellow volunteers, making the week immensely enjoyable and filled with laughter.

Anna Hayhurst (C23)

The Lourdes Pilgrimage (OMV)

This was my second year of going to Lourdes with the OMV. There were 15 current Downside pupils that attended, alongside several OGs and many other young volunteers.

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Over the summer holidays I took part in the annual pilgrimage to Lourdes with the OMV, an organisation run by volunteers. Having met some of the people in my ‘equipe’ only once before, we began working together from the first evening.

However, I soon became familiar with the rest of the pilgrimage as well and loved getting to know both volunteers and guests alike.

I thoroughly enjoyed the week and I hope to be able to go again next year. I would also highly recommend anyone to take part who is considering the OMV Lourdes pilgrimage as it is, in all honesty, an unforgettable experience which teaches so much about how to live your life to the fullest.

My experience at Lourdes with the OMV is a hard one to explain. No one can really prepare you for what you experience during your week there. yes, the hours are hard and yes you will face intense emotions while there; however, despite how tired I was 99.9% of the I had so much fun. All the volunteers I met were beyond lovely and I truly met some of my best friends there. From going out to explore the small high street or even being on late-night duty in the hospital, I found myself always having fun due to my amazing company. The guests and the relationships I formed with many of them have impacted my life in ways I cannot describe. The guests are what truly make the trip, they have taught me so much about life in such a short amount of time. I found the experience so special that I’m already planning to keep going back in the years to come! If I had to find a word that best described my trip with the OMV I would pick ‘love’. The amount of love you see and feel from everyone is unmatched, never have I seen such a loving and special environment. Despite me only being a first year everyone made me feel like I was now a part of this big family, and that is something I will never forget.

Lily-Rose Hall Lower Sixth Form

Sofia Elizabeth Urnau-Collier Lower Sixth Form

Over the course of the week there were two wholepilgrimage parties where everyone chatted, sung karaoke and just generally had fun being together.

It was an entirely new experience for me to see people giving so much joy to each other despite their situations.

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I valued the opportunity to be exposed to such an encouraging community that taught me so many practical skills and helped me develop my religious beliefs.

The strong social community made the experience thoroughly enjoyable, but the combination of that with the volunteering aspect resulted in an emotionally intense week that I would recommend to anyone.

Sebastian Mitton Lower Sixth Form My experience in Lourdes was excellent and I feel as though it significantly improved my faith. The work I did with the OMV was both humbling and enriching and will stay with me forever. Lourdes was truly a breathtaking place, and at times felt surreal. The work whilst on shift during the day was challenging at times however it was very rewarding, and it helped me open my eyes to the world. The social time I had whilst not on duty was also something I will never forget with the lifelong friendships and memories that I made.

Vincent Tickell Lower Sixth Form

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When I was leaving for Lourdes I was most concerned and scared about the aspects of intimate care. I was worried I wouldn’t know how to act in certain situations and how to approach the guests. As it turned out it was one of the easier aspects of the pilgrimage, one that came to me naturally as I entered the hospital.

I believe that it was because of how much support we were all given, from our Group Leaders, medical staff, and other - more experienced volunteers. I was surprised to find out that it was the emotional aspect that challenged me the most. I didn’t expect to bond with the guests as much as much as I did, I didn’t expect them to open up to me and me to open up to them. It was truly wonderful to share those moments with them. I remember watching everyone during the ‘Laying of Hands’ mass, I saw how touched they were, and as a result so was I. I think it is fair to say that I learned a lot during my time at Lourdes, I learned how to take care of others and as a result how to take care of myself. I am truly great for this experience, and for all great friendships that I’ve made during that time. I am looking forward to the next pilgrimage.

Oliwia Malek (C23)

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Publications Finding the Language of Grace Author: Christopher Jamison (R69) On God’s Train Author: Francis Pole (C59) Betjeman In Ireland Author: Dominic Moseley (R72) Shrinking Whitehall Author: Tim Ambler (B55) If You Want to Write…

Why Aren’t You Writing?

Author: Kenneth O’Sullivan (S59) Reality and Illusion & Other Essays Author: Kenneth O’Sullivan (S59) Remembering Christopher Robin: Escaping Winnie-the-Pooh, a biography Author: Kevin Last (S65) Resolving the Cholesterol Controversy Author: Gilbert Thompson (C50) Questioning God Author: Timothy Radcliffe (S63) Medication Meditation Author: Patrick Dillon (U70) Fantastic Football Author: Robin Bennett (B86) Cracking Cricket Author: Robin Bennett (B86) Einhard’s Life of Charlemagne (Latin): A Guide for Translation and Study Author: Richard Shaw (R95)

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