The Shirburnian 20/21

SHIRBURNIAN THE

2020/21

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Welcome to

THE SHIRBURNIAN

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fter the extraordinary events of 2020, we would have been forgiven for hoping for a rather more predictable 2021. Sadly, it was not to be but the way in which the boys, staff and wider School community adapted to the seemingly endless challenges saw Sherborne at its very best.

In fact, the academic year started amidst encouraging signs of an imminent return to normality. The Michaelmas Term had a somewhat unusual feel to it as we came back to a School governed by social distancing, zoning, face coverings, hand sanitiser and lateral flow tests. But at least we were back together. Sadly, the prevailing optimism was soon dashed as the Government announced in January that schools would once again be closed, consigning the boys to a second period of remote learning. And, whilst delighted to see them return in March, many (along with their teachers) then had to contend with the novel and demanding process of creating Teacher Assessed Grades in lieu of the cancelled (I)GCSE, BTEC and A level examinations. Yet, despite all of that, the boys remained remarkably cheerful and deserve great credit for their forbearance and resilience.

They have also achieved an astonishing amount.

Academically, both boys and staff coped admirably with the challenges of two lockdowns. Indeed, the fact that our remote learning was so successful is a tribute to both the adaptability and determination of the boys and the imagination, flexibility and commitment of those who teach them. One highlight of the year was seeing no fewer than 81 boys complete an Extended Project Qualification with almost half of them achieving an A* grade. They also

performed superbly in their public examinations, notwithstanding the challenges presented by a hastily conceived and far from perfect system of assessment. At all levels, we enjoyed a bumper crop of results including two thirds of our A levels being awarded A* and A grades, allowing over 90% of this year’s leavers to secure their first-choice university places.

It was not only in scholarship that the boys excelled.

It may have been the year of plastic screens, socially distanced performances and the wearing of face coverings between moments of singing or playing but some marvellous music was created.

Performances continued throughout the year, including a beautiful, poignant (and virtual) Christmas carol service and our pre-recorded Sunday services which provided welcome moments of reflection and calm in the darkest days of the pandemic. The Music Department even managed to maintain the momentum of performance examinations, with results including yet more ATCL diplomas and a plethora of Grade 8 Distinctions and other outstanding individual achievements.

It was much the same in Drama, where the ban on live performances was overcome by transferring our School and House plays to Radio Sherborne.

There were also impressive LAMDA examination

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Looking back over the many troubled months that the world has endured, I am deeply heartened by the energy, enthusiasm, generosity and thoughtfulness of our young people.

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results whilst Art continued to flourish, as exampled by the superb leavers’ exhibition in the Art School.

that should have significant and enduring benefits for both schools.

Given the restrictions that followed the arrival of the pandemic, the sporting year was remarkable less for its outstanding achievements and more because it happened at all. As with Music and Drama, it is testament to the dedication and imagination of colleagues that they came up with a range of activities, lockdown challenges, internal tournaments and other wheezes to keep the boys fit, healthy and competitive.

Another event of great moment was the unveiling in the Courts of a beautiful bronze bust of Alan Turing (h 31). The unveiling, by his nephew Sir Dermot Turing (h 78), was timed to coincide with the launch in June of the new £50 note bearing Alan’s likeness. To be able to count someone of such surpassing greatness among our alumni is both a privilege and an inspiration. Indeed, reading the new History of the School, Old Yet Ever Young, by Patrick Francis and David Ridgway, only serves to emphasise how many of our former pupils have moved on from Sherborne to make the world wiser, richer and kinder.

The CCF continued with an adapted training programme and the year was notable for the welcome arrival of the first cadets from Sherborne Girls. Our Duke of Edinburgh’s Award candidates continued their progress, with more than 250 boys enrolling on the scheme and a large number completing, including at the most demanding Gold award level. A fitting tribute to His Royal Highness whose loss we mourned this year.

The boys were also involved in a huge range of clubs, societies and other activities including those, such as the Environmental Action Group, Amnesty and our newly established Equality Action Group, which aim to make the world a better place for others now and in the future.

Whilst dealing with the immediate challenges thrust upon us by the pandemic, we were also busy planning for an ambitious post-COVID future. Thanks to buoyant pupil numbers, the Governors were able to give the go-ahead to the long-awaited project to redevelop and enlarge our Sports Centre. The first phase of the work, involving the creation of a second, much-larger sports hall, started in earnest in July and the whole project is due for completion by the summer of 2023. And, in another exciting development, on 1 April 2021 Sherborne Prep School became part of the Sherborne School Group, a move

And this, of course, is the challenge for the current generation of Shirburnians. They have amply proved themselves in adversity and it is clear they have the most tremendous potential. It is now for them to decide how best to use their talents. As they look to make their way in the world, they will be well equipped to find success for themselves. But, knowing them as I do, I am sure they will also wish to deploy their talents for the common good and in an effort to help tackle the acute social and environmental issues that previous generations have bequeathed them.

Looking back over the many troubled months that the world has endured, I am deeply heartened by the energy, enthusiasm, generosity and thoughtfulness of our young people. I am deeply proud of our boys and confident that they and others like them will lead us to a very bright future. I hope that reading of their exploits in the pages that follow will induce in you a similar optimism.

Dr Dominic Luckett Headmaster and CEO

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2020 21...

YEAR IN REVIEW

HEAD BOYS MUSIC CREATIVE WRITING VIRTUAL COMMEMORATION

ACADEMIC CO-CURRICULAR HOUSES SPORT 10 YEARS ON FAREWELLS WELCOMING NEW STAFF

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The year in review September

The return to School marked a continuation of year-group bubbles in Houses and a variety of regulations designed to minimise the potential impact of COVID-19. The boys showed characteristic maturity in adhering to the rules, with the new Third Form displaying particular resolve as they settled into Sherborne life.

Each House worked hard to lay on a varied programme of activities and events, helping to bring distraction and stimulation for pupils of all ages.

Sherborne’s unique educational offer was in the spotlight at the Boarding Schools’ Association (BSA) annual awards. Sherborne and Sherborne Girls were jointly shortlisted for the Best Community Work Initiative prize, in recognition of their work with Operation Future Hope. They were selected as highly commended and came second to Sedbergh School, but benefitted from the profile that comes with such a prestigious nomination.

A joint virtual Harvest Thanksgiving Service was another example of cooperation between Sherborne’s schools. Contributions were made to the town’s foodbank as pupils gathered

October National Poetry Day provided an opportunity for boys to showcase their talents. The theme of this year’s event was ‘Vision’, and the Third Form ran a poetry competition in conjunction with the English Department.

Abbey House put on a radio play entitled Dick Barton and the Tango of Terror. It was broadcast live for two consecutive nights on Radio Sherborne, with a recording available for those who wanted to listen on catch-up.

Sherborne’s focus on mental wellbeing came to the fore as Housemasters offered virtual “Time to Talk” sessions in which pupils discussed their mental health challenges.

James Crawford hosted a discussion of the same issue on Radio Sherborne, then edited the broadcast for wider circulation.

Bryony Watts and Mary Flanagan led a creative writing session on black literature and music, giving the boys a chance to broaden their knowledge and experiment with new styles of writing.

online for the service.

William Loughlin (U6d) was selected as a Lord-

The CCF were delighted to receive a Field

on outstanding qualities and service to cadets

Gun thanks to generous donations from Sherborne 360° supporters. The provision of a Field Gun now enables the Royal Navy CCF to participate in the Field Gun competition at HMS Collingwood. Furthermore, the intention is to demonstrate the boys’ Field Gun skills to parents and guests at the Biennial Inspection.

Lieutenant’s Cadet. The selection was based and their community.

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November

December

The ongoing COVID-19 restrictions

As the boys readied for their Christmas

necessitated a virtual Remembrance Service,

holiday, the School remained abuzz with

with a special Act of Remembrance being

activity. A highlight was the broadcast on 3

filmed in the Courts and in the Chapel in the

and 4 December of Dylan Thomas’s lyrical

run-up to 11 November. The School held its

masterpiece, Under Milk Wood. 11 boys from

customary two-minute silence on

across the School were selected for the

Remembrance Day, with the boys being

performance, which was streamed live in two

encouraged to hold Shirburnians who have

parts over the course of a week, then available

served in the military particularly in mind.

via a link on Radio Sherborne for those who wanted to listen again.

The School celebrated the publication of Patrick Francis’s Old Yet Ever Young, a new

The Sports Department continued its

history of Sherborne that focuses on its human

programme of activities for boys, with a rich

community as well as key moments in its

variety of challenges posed to keep pupils

development. The book features photographs

fresh during the Christmas vacation and

from David Ridgway, reprising a partnership

subsequent lockdown. Other staff also

that began with the publication of Vivat

provided comprehensive programmes in

Shirburnia in 2014.

co-curricular areas such as Music, Drama, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, and CCF.

Lyon House’s radio play, The War of the Worlds, was broadcast live and on catch-up.

Sherborne’s Virtual Carol Service was shared

Meanwhile, the Sports Department launched

across the Sherborne community. Many

the Junior Olympics as a way to keep Third

beautiful carols and hymns were sung around

and Fourth Formers active during the autumn

the grounds of the School and many super

lockdown.

readings were delivered.

Boys completed their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, including expeditions across the Brecon Beacons and Snowdonia.

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The year in review January

February

A significant push on Extended Project Qualifications (EPQs) among the Upper Sixth resulted in 20 projects being submitted to the exam board. Several achieved full marks, with over half of the projects being awarded A*.

Every submission was awarded a minimum of a B – an impressive achievement that reflects the intellectual engagement of pupils.

The first week of February was Children’s Mental Health Week, providing a valuable opportunity for the School to reassert its commitment to wellbeing. A variety of initiatives were offered, including an “Express Yourself” challenge for the Lower School and the ongoing delivery of the popular “Time to Talk” sessions hosted by Tom O’Sullivan (U6d).

The chats provided an opportunity for boys to talk openly about their challenges, receiving support and advice from their peers.

Further good news came in the form of some outstanding ABRSM and Trinity College examination results, including four Distinctions at Grade 8.

Harper House became the first House to produce a radio play entirely remotely. This took the form of an entertaining interpretation of The 39 Steps. The production served as a masterclass in cooperation and careful editing.

Some 15 boys took part in LAMDA examinations, with 11 being awarded Distinctions. Pupils also took part in the Perse Coding Competition, testing their mathematical mettle against teams from across the country.

Sherborne Collaborate, a series of webinars designed to support parents and boys as they navigated their remote learning journey was launched. Webinars have been recorded and can be found on the School’s website: www.sherborne.org/news-andevents/collaborate-webinars A special assembly was given to the boys to mark Holocaust Memorial Day. The entire Sherborne community was encouraged to commit to doing something to mark the day and stand up to prejudice.

The Rainbow Bake challenge to mark LGBTQ+ History Month proved popular among the School community, with several boys submitting entries of their multi-coloured cakes. This event was also marked by a creative writing challenge and an Alan Turing (h 31) themed project, giving boys a chance to enhance their understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion.

Old Shirburnian and Geographer Will Caldwell (m 16) remotely delivered an engaging talk to our boys, together with Sherborne Girls about his experiences of studying Geography at Newcastle University.

Additionally, Old Shirburnian’s Henry Mitchell (d 01), James Cochrane-Dyet (b 08) and Charlie Hoare (b 02) joined our boys remotely to discuss ways their own careers have progressed in different ways and the skills and competencies that can be developed throughout a varied career.

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2.

March

April

With pupils returning to School for the first

The big news of April was the School’s merger

time since Christmas, there was an air of

with Sherborne Prep. This forms a cohesive

excitement around Sherborne. Before that, a

community in Sherborne that makes the best

Careers Webinar was held for Lower Sixth

of opportunities to collaborate, drive

boys and parents, helping them prepare for

efficiencies and enhance the educational

their next steps after A levels and BTECs. This

experience for pupils at both schools.

was supplemented by a virtual Careers Fair held on 6 March.

Meanwhile, the Third Formers completed their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expedition, while

Boys from School House broadcast their radio

those who remained participated in a variety

play, an amusing production of Dad’s Army:

of environment-themed activities. Foremost

The Deadly Attachment, to great critical

among these was a “Keep Sherborne Tidy”

acclaim. With one director working in Hong

litter pick, and some much-appreciated time in

Kong and the other in the UK during the

the School allotment.

lockdown, the performance was a particular achievement for all involved. The Lower

Fifth Form cadets completed their weapons

School’s production of The Turn of the Screw

training. In a first for the School, they were

also went live on 18 March.

joined by pupils from Sherborne Girls, bringing a new dynamic to the CCF’s

The School marked Women’s History Month

activities. Harry Johnson (U6e) emerged

with a variety of activities, including a

victorious from the annual Iron Cadet

discussion of masculinity and violence against

competition, officially making him the School’s

women chaired by James Crawford on Radio

fittest cadet.

Sherborne.

In other news, Sherborne’s team of Fourth The Maths Department welcomed Professor

Formers achieved a Distinction in the second

Chris Budd (University of Bath) for a talk

round of the Perse Coding Challenge – an

entitled: How Maths Fights COVID-19.

achievement that put them in the top quarter of finalists.

On the 25 March, the Bank of England unveiled the new plastic £50 note featuring pioneer, codebreaker and most famous alumni, Alan Turing (h 31).

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The year in review May

June

Mental Health Awareness Week followed the theme of “nature”, giving plenty of encouragement for the boys to connect with the world around them. The precedent of peer support for mental wellbeing continued, with three Sixth Formers leading an assembly centred on the topic.

June saw a flood of competitive fixtures for Sherborne’s cricketers, with several highlights in a season disrupted by COVID-19 cancellations. Foremost among these were Will Tatham’s (3d) 100 not out in a match against Poole Grammar School and Tom Stephens (5d) taking four wickets to just 13 runs in his six overs against Torquay Boys Grammar School.

The finals of the Junior and Senior Patterson Recitation Prizes took place in the Chapel.

Archie Burton (L6a) won the Senior prize after a stunning delivery of Wilfred Owen’s Dulce et Decorum Est. James Barraclough (3a) won the Junior prize with his delicate recitation of a Simon Armitage sonnet.

Four Shirburnians starred in the Bath versus Exeter Academy rugby match held in Truro.

Charlie McCaig (U6b) represented Exeter, while Arthur Green (L6g), Will Parry (L6b) and Henry Blake (U6b) pulled on the blue and white hoops of Bath.

Other sporting events included a mixed tennis tournament with Sherborne Girls and the traditional Sports Day – a welcome taste of normality for the whole School community.

Meanwhile, Old Shirburnian Tom Carr-Smith (m 20) played for England’s under-20s in their Six Nations match against France, continuing his progression through the ranks of professional rugby.

The Patrick Shelley Music Competition took place, with James Henderson and his team putting in a sterling effort to organise proceedings. The overall winner was Isaac Bingley (U6e), who performed exceptionally well in a field of outstanding musicians.

Trinity ended with a Virtual Commemoration ceremony that was broadcast via YouTube.

While not the face-to-face celebration that many hoped for, it provided a welcome chance to mark the boys’ achievements in a difficult year, with Dr Luckett paying particular tribute to the Upper Sixth Form leavers. On 26 June a stunning bronze bust of Alan Turing (h 31) was unveiled in the grounds of Sherborne School.

The bust was designed by internationally acclaimed sculptor David Williams-Ellis, commissioned by Sherborne resident Kathryn Ballisat and unveiled by Alan Turing’s nephew and Old Shirburnian, Sir Dermot Turing (h 78).

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3.

July

August

Excitement mounted as work started in

A level results day brought good news for

earnest on the new £13m sports centre, with

Sherborne’s Upper Sixth Form leavers. Three

the whole project due to complete in the

quarters of A levels were graded at A* or A,

summer of 2023. The new facility offers state-

and 90 per cent of leavers were accepted into

of-the-art fitness training, two sports halls, an

their first-choice university courses. Two thirds

indoor hockey pitch, badminton and squash

will attend Russell Group institutions, with

courts, and a rock-climbing and bouldering

several others taking up places at specialist art

wall. It is being supported by a £4m donation

and music colleges, or overseas.

from the Sherborne Foundation, of which over £3m has already been raised or pledged.

The (I)GCSE results brought similar cheer: a third of all boys achieved 10 or more grades at 9 to 7, with eight securing 10 or more grade 9s.

Speaking about the results, Headmaster Dr Dominic Luckett said: “In gaining these grades, our boys have shown themselves to be possessed not only of great academic ability but also high levels of grit, determination and adaptability. At the same time, I cannot praise highly enough the inspiration and guidance given to them, over many months, by our talented and dedicated team of teaching and support staff. I am grateful to them all.”

2020/2021

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Turing Unveilling EnDuring LEgacy

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bronze bust of Alan Turing (h 31) was unveiled at Sherborne on Saturday, 26 June 2021. It commemorates one of the most illustrious Old Shirburnians.

Look at the face of Alan Turing on the new David Williams-Ellis bronze bust beside the Courts and you’ll see more than just a likeness of the great man.

You’ll gain a sense of who he was, what made him tick. It is as if you deepen your acquaintance with Turing, despite the separation of time and space.

That is thanks in no small part to the painstaking approach Williams-Ellis took to the commission. He was asked to create the bust by former Sherborne resident Kathryn Ballisat, who wanted a way of honouring Turing’s legacy in one of the places that helped form him. In response, Williams-Ellis read countless biographies of Turing to engage fully with his work, giving him a richer understanding of his personality. The sculptor then drew on this knowledge when working on his piece, creating the arresting artwork that is now on display in the School grounds.

The bust was unveiled on Saturday, 26 June 2021 – a postponement of the planned unveiling that resulted from the COVID-19 crisis. Speaking at the ceremony, Headmaster, Dr Dominic Luckett, said that the delay proved fortuitous. It meant that the event coincided with the launch of a new £50 note featuring Turing. Both the new note and the Sherborne bust speak of the wider recognition

Turing now receives for his innovative work in computing, not to mention his now well-known role in designing the Enigma code-breaking machine that helped the Allies win the war.

Standing beside the banknote and the veiled bust was Alan Turing’s nephew and biographer, Sir John Dermot Turing (h 78), who himself attended Sherborne between 1974 and 1978. Sir Dermot shared the story of his uncle’s arrival at the School, which involved a 65-mile ride on a pushbike from Southampton as a result of a rail strike. This anecdote speaks of Turing’s determination – a trait that characterised much of his working life. Sir Dermot reflected on the beauty of Williams-Ellis’s sculpture, remarking that the unveiling would be the first time he had seen it in person, rather than via photographs. He was noticeably moved when revealing the bust, which was met by applause from those who had gathered to witness it. Dr Luckett remarked: “This is a special moment for the School and wider community. Alan Turing is one of our greatest Old Shirburnians and an icon of the 20th century. This unveiling is a celebration of his pioneering work, marking his impact on both science and society today.”

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s Explore Turing’s life To celebrate the Turing bust’s unveiling, Sherborne’s Sixth Formers were challenged to produce an app that provides a Virtual Reality experience of the famous scientist’s life. Sam Berry (L6a) and Will Fahie (L6b) attended the ceremony to share their work so far with guests. Once it is complete, they hope to offer the app for sale, donating any profits to one of the Turing family’s chosen charities. The app provides users with an insight in Alan Turing’s life, using items from Sherborne’s Turing archive to give a taste of his time at School.

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HEAD BOYS

Jonathan Post (u6a) and William Loughlin (u6d) have been excellent Heads of School, well supported by an impressive group of Heads of House and School

Prefects. They have done extremely well in challenging circumstances and are to be both thanked and congratulated. I am, as always, grateful to those boys who have served in positions of responsibility and leadership, respecting the needs of others, recognising the importance of kindness, empathy and collaboration. For the first half of 2021/22, I am delighted to have appointed Jack Pyman (L6e) as Head of School.

Dr Dominic Luckett, Headmaster and cEO

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• Henry Parsons - U6d

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• Crispin Newman - U6c

• Charlie Cunningham - U6f

• Isaac Bingley - U6e

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Music A

s everyone everywhere will always say, it has been an unusual year! The musical life of the School became characterised by plastic screens - in the Chapel, where the Choir rehearsed in strict social distancing and filling the entire building, in the BSR where the Wind Band, Concert and Radio Orchestras filled every space available, and in the Music School where ensembles met in sectionals throughout the year.

Friday Lunchtime Recitals continued as ‘normal’, either remotely (from January to March) when music staff constructed split-screen video-recordings made on mobile phones at home, or ‘live’ from the Tindall Recital Hall from where they were largely unedited. All concerts appeared on YouTube and may be watched again for some time yet.

The Carol Service was ‘virtual’ too, recorded in the Chapel and filmed in various different locations around the School and it, together with the Patrick Shelley Music Competition (adjudicated by Dr Luckett), the Leavers’ Concert and the Gala Concert, may all be watched on YouTube. Viewing figures suggest that more people saw these services and concerts on YouTube than in ‘ordinary times’.

The Choirs were quite remarkable in their continued efforts to sing wonderfully despite never actually having had a service in which to sing. Online services were broadcast internally every Sunday of the year, with a hymn and an anthem (recorded the preceding Thursday) every week.

The Swing Band, with vocalist Max Pugsley (U6d), recorded two full YouTube recitals. But the tour de force was again the Commem Gala Concert whose programme displays pupil involvement almost entirely undiminished by COVID-19.

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JamEs HEnDErsOn DIRECTOR OF MUSIC SHERBORNE SCHOOL AND SHERBORNE ABBEY

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T H E G A L A C O N C E RT

Gala Concert nn ee20 Ju 22 01 21 Friday 25hthJu

Friday 25 June 2021

7.30pm Big Sc h ool Ro om an d Tindall Reci tal Hall , Sherborne School (Filmed w ithout an audien c e)

Programme Wind Band Wind B and

Aladdin

Menken arr. Jennings

Tangled Medley

Menken arr. Hoshide Casey arr. Murtha

Highlights from Grease

Cha mbe r C ho ir

Britten

Jubilate Deo in C

Hazell

Mr Jums Bras s B an d

Clos e Har mo ny

John arr. Dunk

Circle of Life

Rutter

Come Live with Me Lullaby

Gershwin arr. Manookian

Cha mbe r Orc hest ra Inception: Time

Zimmer arr. Gilabert

Six Variations Op.76 – Beethoven Con cer t O rch est ra

Mambo – Symphonic Dances from West Side Story Juba Dance

Radi o Orc hes tra

Bernstein Florence Price Mancini

Lujon

One Mint Julep Swin g Ban d

Orch. B Davey

Rudy Toombs Stilgoe

I Like This One Pennsylvania 6-500

Conductors: Clare Jackson, Hugh Davies and Dan Marks Leader: Archie Burton Sch.Mus

Flute: William Loughlin, Finn Grammaticas, Joseph Page Sch.Mus., Sammy O’Brien Sch.Mus., Sam Baring, Freddie Senior Sch.Mus. Oboe: Ed Brooks Exh.Mus., Hendrik Ashbrooke Exh.Mus., Hector Kennerley Sch.Mus. Clarinet: Archie Burton Sch.Mus., Angus Williams Sch.Mus., Harry Wood, Ricky Xu Sch.Mus., James Coleman Exh.Mus., Joonsang Hyun, Bassoon: Thomas Arbon Valderrama Sch.Mus. Alto Saxophone: Lucas Gardner A.R., Charles Gatti, Giles Blythman-Rowe, Toby Foulger, Byron Yang Sch.Mus., Max McVeigh, Jack Arnold Sch.Mus., James Thorne, Will Wilson, Danny Windle, Tenor Saxophone: Maxim Lewis, Matt MacDonald, Khalid Miah Baritone Saxophone: Fergus Burtt ATCL Sch. Mus. Trumpet: Jonathan Post Exh. Mus., Jez Meaker, Freddie Folkes Sch. Mus., Charlie Burtt Sch. Mus. Archie Beardsell Sch. Mus., Henry Cannon Exh. Mus., Rufus Austin, Joseph Harris, Alex Upton, William Wight French Horn: Nico Beeny Sch. Mus., Oliver Chappell Exh. Mus., Euphonium: Alex Biddulph, Matthew Findlay Trombone: Freddie Banks, Toby Talbot-Williams, Tom Ewart Smith, Alex O’Sullivan Exh. Mus., Bass Trombone: Fabian Mercer Sch.Mus, Alfie Reynolds Tuba: Jamie Jones, Bamber Mauleverer Exh. Mus., Oscar Boswall Sch. Mus., George Wight Exh. Mus. Drum Kit: Tom O’Sullivan ATCL Exh. Mus. Percussion and Timpani: Ranco Liu ATCL Sch. Mus.

Chamber Choir Director: James Henderson Simon Aggett, Bruno Ardern-Norris, Jack Arnold Sch.Mus., Hendrik Ashbrooke Exh.Mus., William Ashworth Sch.Mus., Archie Beardsell Sch.Mus., Nico Beeny Exh.Mus., Sam Berry Exh.Mus., Alex Biddulph, Isaac Bingley Sch.Mus., Oscar Boswall Sch.Mus., Archie Burton Sch.Mus., Fergus Burtt ATCL Sch.Mus., Oliver Chappell Exh.Mus., James Coleman Exh.Mus., Freddie Fineman, Jack Fletcher, Freddie Folkes Sch.Mus., Tom Foster, Alexander Hobbs Sch.Mus., Kit Hobbs Sch.Mus., Reuben Hobbs Exh.Mus., Percy Hugh Smith, Hector Kennerley Sch.Mus., Ralph Lewis, Fabian Mercer Sch.Mus., Sammy O’Brien Sch.Mus., Ed Pinnock, Jonathan Post Exh.Mus., Max Pugsley, Jack Pyman Sch.Mus., Minsang Ryu, Ciaran Smith Exh.Mus., Charlie Temmink A.R., Charlie Tyrrell, Angus Williams Sch.Mus., Danny Windle

Brass Band Director: Hugh Davies

Trumpet: Jez Meaker, Archie Beardsell Sch.Mus., Charlie Burtt Sch.Mus., Rufus Austin, Freddie Hope-Hawkins, William Wight, Alex Upton Euphonium: Matthew Findlay, Alex Biddulph Trombone: Freddie Banks, Tom Ewart Smith, Bass Trombone: Fabian Mercer Sch.Mus., Alfie Reynolds Tuba: Jamie Jones, Bamber Mauleverer Exh.Mus., George Wight Exh.Mus., Oscar Boswall Sch.Mus.

Glenn Miller

C o ncer t Or chest r a Close Harmony

Director: James Henderson

Leader: Alexander Hobbs Sch.Mus

Leader: Alexander Hobbs Sch.Mus

Director: James Henderson

First Violin: Alexander Hobbs Sch.Mus., Lawrence Nemi-Clover Jack Arnold Sch.Mus., William Ashworth Sch.Mus., Archie Beardsell Sch.Mus., Archie Burton Sch.Mus., Jack Fletcher, Hector Kennerley Sch.Mus., Fabian Mercer Sch.Mus., Jonathan Post Exh.Mus., Max Pugsley, Jack Pyman Sch.Mus., Ciaran Smith Exh.Mus., Charlie Tyrrell

Chamber Orchestra Directors: Lucy-Anne Allen and Dan Marks Leader: Alexander Hobbs Sch.Mus

Violin: Alexander Hobbs Sch.Mus., Lawrence Nemi-Clover, Ciaran Smith Exh.Mus., Jack Pyman Sch.Mus., James Herbert Sch.Mus., Orlando Tavener Sch.Mus., Reuben Hobbs Exh.Mus. Viola: Jay Chan ATCL Sch.Mus., Daniel Baker Sch.Org Cello: Kit Hobbs Sch.Mus., Sam Berry Exh.Mus., Gareth Kwong Exh.Mus., William Ashworth Sch.Mus., James Li, Miss Serena Forwood Sch.Cho Percussion: Ranco Liu ATCL Sch.Mus.

R a d i o O r ch e s t r a

Conductors: Benjamin Davey, James Henderson, Clare Jackson and Dan Marks

Jack Pyman Sch.Mus., Orlando Tavener Sch.Mus. Second Violin: James Herbert Sch.Mus., Reuben Hobbs Exh.Mus., Ciaran Smith Exh.Mus. Viola: Daniel Baker Sch.Org., Jay Chan ATCL Sch.Mus., Cello: Sam Berry Exh.Mus., Miss Serena Forwood Sch.Cho., Kit Hobbs Sch.Mus., Gareth Kwong Exh.Mus., Curtis Lee, James Li Flute: William Loughlin, Finn Grammaticas, Joseph Page Sch.Mus., Sammy O’Brien Sch.Mus. Clarinet: Fergus Burtt ATCL Sch.Mus., Archie Burton Sch.Mus., Angus Williams Sch.Mus., James Coleman Exh.Mus., Ricky Xu Sch.Mus., Oboe: Hendrik Ashbrooke Exh.Mus., Ed Brooks Exh.Mus., Henry Haywood Smith, Hector Kennerley Sch.Mus. Bassoon: Thomas Arbon Valderrama Sch.Mus. French Horn: Nico Beeny Sch.Mus., Oliver Chappell Exh.Mus., Freddie Senior Sch.Mus. Trumpet: Archie Beardsell Sch.Mus., Charlie Burtt Sch.Mus., Henry Cannon Exh.Mus., Freddie Folkes Sch.Mus. Trombone: Freddie Banks, Toby Talbot-Williams, Tom Ewart Smith, Alex O’Sullivan Exh.Mus. Bass Trombone: Fabian Mercer Sch.Mus. Euphonium: Matthew Findlay Tuba: Oscar Boswall Sch.Mus., Bamber Mauleverer Exh.Mus., George Wight Exh.Mus. Drum kit: Tom O’Sullivan ATCL Exh.Mus. Percussion and Timpani: Ranco Liu ATCL Sch. Mus.

Concert Orchestra with Radio Orchestra Saxophones:

Alto Saxophone: Lucas Gardner A.R., Jack Arnold Sch.Mus. Tenor Saxophone: Matt MacDonald Sch.Mus., Maxim Lewis Exh.Mus. Baritone Saxophone: Fergus Burtt ATCL Sch.Mus.

Swing Band Director: James Henderson

Alto Saxophone: Lucas Gardner A.R., Archie Burton Sch.Mus., Giles Blythman-Rowe, Charles Gatti, Toby Foulger, Jack Arnold Sch.Mus. Tenor Saxophone: Matt MacDonald Sch.Mus., Max Lewis Exh.Mus. Baritone Saxophone (and clarinet): Fergus Burtt ATCL Sch. Mus. Trumpet: Jonathan Post Exh.Mus., Jez Meaker, Freddie Folkes Sch.Mus., Charlie Burtt Sch.Mus. Trombone: Toby Talbot-Williams, Freddie Banks, Tom Ewart-Smith Bass Trombone: Fabian Mercer Sch.Mus. Piano: Ranco Liu ATCL Sch.Mus. Guitar: Kit Slim Exh.Mus Bass Guitar: Ed Pinnock Drum Kit: Tom O’Sullivan ATCL Exh.Mus. Voice: Max Pugsley

T h a n k yo u a l l v e r y m uc h fo r y o u r s u p p o r t .

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PIANISTS

By Benjamin Davey, Head of Keyboard studies

It was exciting to have our pianists

Handel and Oscar Welchman

The Friday Piano Recital returned

performing back at school after

(L6b) performed Dream by the

in the Summer term. The eight

the summer and, though they

Swiss-born American composer,

pianists included Michael Long

were not able to play live to our

Ernest Bloch. The recital ended

(5m) playing Mendelssohn’s Song

wonderful and appreciative

with Copland’s Cat and Mouse

Without Words, Op.19, No.1 and

audience in Cheap Street Church

played by Ciaran Smith Exh.Mus

William Miao Sch.Mus treated us

in the Friday lunchtime concert

(U6b): this is a fascinating piece

to the first movement of the less

series, the Tindall Recital Hall,

and Ciaran captured the mercurial

often played Op.27, No.1 Sonata

with its fine Yamaha C3 piano, was

nature of the inevitable narrative

by Beethoven. Particularly

a fitting venue, albeit with only a

with sparkling virtuosity.

eloquent was Hendrik Ashbrooke’s Exh.Mus

couple of staff and some intimidating video equipment to

In the New Year we were forced to

performance of Haydn’s Andante

hear them give of their best. Isaac

return to our remote recordings

in A.

Bingley Sch.Mus (U6e), was the

and this gave us the opportunity

first pianist to take to the keys

to hear some pianists play in the

For twelve pianists, the year

with Brahms’s Rhapsody in G

comfort of their own concert halls.

culminated in the Piano Class of

minor in the first concert, pre-

Jack Pyman Sch.Mus (L6e) opened

the Patrick Shelley Cup

empting the Piano Recital a

the first concert with Chopin’s B

Competition and which saw

couple of weeks later.

minor Prelude and concluded it

Sammy O’Brien, Sch.Mus (4e),

with Serenade sur l’eau by Ibert.

Matt MacDonald Sch.Mus (U6c),

Here we heard William Miao

Later we heard Hendrik

and Ricky Xu Sch.Mus (5a), share

Sch.Mus (5f), give the first of four

Ashbrooke Exh.Mus (5g) playing

their pianistic talents for the first

exciting appearances he made

Sibelius’s Jouer de Harpe and

time in the year. The standard was

throughout the year, playing

Angus Williams Sch.Mus (5c),

consistently high but highlights

Bach’s Prelude and Fugue in F

playing Chaminade’s Scarf Dance.

included performances of two of

minor from Book I with a mature

Isaac Bingley, performed the

the very challenging Chopin

understanding of this complex

Prelude from Bach’s Partita No.1

Etudes; Op.10, No.1, played by

music. David Chen Exh.Mus (5e),

and was notable for its expressive

William Miao Sch.Mus, and Op.10

played Debussy’s Minstrels and

lines and meticulous, but

No.12 played by Ranco Liu ATCL

Fergus Burtt ATCL Sch.Mus (U6c),

unobtrusive ornamentation.

Sch.Mus (L6e). Ciaran Smith, played the desperately

played a beautiful Cimarosa sonata. Gareth Kwong Exh.Mus

Further performances on return

melancholic Pavane pour une

(4e), James Coleman Exh.Mus

to school included a third

infante défunte by Ravel and Isaac

(4a), and Byron Yang Sch.Mus (4d)

interpretation of Ibert’s Sérénade

Bingley, now performed the

represented the Fourth Form

sur l’eau given by James

complete Bach Partita No.1.

playing, respectively, Mason’s

Coleman, the C minor Prelude

Isaac’s performance was full of

Lullaby, Chopin’s B minor Prelude

and Fugue from Book I, given by

expressiveness as well as

and the first movement of CPE

Freddie Folkes Sch.Mus (5a), and

excitement and contributed to his

Bach’s Sonata in F minor. Theo

a vigorous performance of

being awarded the overall cup.

Jarratt (L6b) bought a lighter

Mambo by Norton given by Nico

The Piano Class, itself, was jointly

character to the concert with

Beeny Sch.Mus (5c).

won by Ciaran and Isaac.

Proksch’s neo-baroque Now Let’s

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BRASS

By Hugh Davies, Head of Brass

The variety of brass instruments

ably lead by Jamie Jones (U6b): a

individually but highlights include

being played by Shirburnians has

wonderful sight to behold, not to

a brilliant rendition by the Fourth

not diminished as a result of

mention to hear!

Form Brass Quintet — Henry

COVID-19: there are many music

Cannon Exh.Mus (4c), Charlie

departments around the country

At its peak the Brass Band swelled

Burtt Sch.Mus (4c), Archie

that celebrate one, maybe two

to 18 players, with the Atrium in

Beardsell Sch.Mus (4f), Karl Ng

tuba-players - so five, which is

the Music School providing

(4b) and Bamber Mauleverer

what we have here at Sherborne,

enough socially distanced space

Exh.Mus (4b) — of Mr Blue Sky;

is a joy! And then there are the 17

for them to rehearse with plastic

Jez Meaker’s (U6d) fabulous

trumpet-players, five boys who

screens between players and

rendition of Harry James’ Blues

play euphoniums, 12 who play

therefore made a formidably loud

and Cantabile (a very challenging

trombones, and six who play

sound second only to the Wind

piece peppered with top notes in

French horns.

Band! In the Michaelmas Term the

the trumpet stratosphere); and

Brass Band performed Great

Jono Post’s Exh.Mus (U6a) Chet

A very active year of rehearsing

Escapades, a medley of Second

Baker-esque online performance

and performing variously a brass

World War movie themes, with

of My Funny Valentine including

band, brass quintet, horn quartet,

great gusto and enjoyed it so

some great singing and a very

trumpet trios and quartets, a

much that a rehearsal has not

exciting improvised solo. And

Dixieland Jazz Band and a tuba

gone by since when they did not

who can forget Bamber

quintet, saw brass players

ask to play it again!

Mauleverer’s Toreador Song from

flourishing on YouTube. A

Bizet’s Carmen which he recorded

highlight, if only for its unique

Despite the inevitable COVID-19

at home during the lockdown in

quality, must be the five tubas

reduction in the number of

the first part of the year. YouTube

getting together to perform

performance opportunities, there

seemed to deem it a ‘favourite’!

Gounod’s March of a Marionette,

were still too many to mention

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STRINGS

By Lucy-anne allen, Head of strings

With a year of remote lessons

Gareth Kwong Exh.Mus (4e) and

effervescent violin performance of

where musical curiosity and

their graceful performances of

Capriccio by Cecile Chaminade.

independent learning has been

Mozart’s Two German Dances.

Special mention should be made

diligently encouraged, and with

The traditional Mince Pies

of the challenges in rehearsing

the advent of ‘TV Recitals’ where

Concert was an all-strings affair

and recording this piece remotely

performers work hard to

despite some performers having

– its nuances and elastic nature

communicate more effectively

to leave early for quarantine

were captured brilliantly by Jack

with their online audience, string

ahead of the Christmas Holidays.

and Mr Davey! The return to

players have had a great

Chamber Orchestra opened the

school in March saw more

opportunity to develop more

recorded concert with Vivaldi’s

performances from the violins,

characterful playing, considering

Concerto Grosso in D minor

with Alex Hobbs ably performing

conceptual and performance

RV565 with violinists Alex Hobbs

Poème by Fibich and Orlando

elements to a greater degree in

and Jack Pyman, and cellist Kit

Tavener’s bold performance of

every practice. In the first Soloists’

Hobbs Sch.Mus (5c) as soloists,

Kela by Susanne Lundeng, a

Recital on 27 September two

followed by guitarists William

technically challenging piece in

violinists performed: Jack Pyman

Waters (5b), Oscar Welchman

the folk idiom, written with the

Sch.Mus (L6e) played Bloch’s

(L6b), Sam Usher AR (U6m) and

resonant Hardanger Fiddle and its

evocative Vidui, and a colourful

James Fielding Exh.Mus (3a) with

eight, often nine strings in mind.

performance of Dushkin’s

repertoire ranging from the

rhythmically demanding

traditional Breton song Tri

During the Trinity Term, the

arrangement of Chanson Russe by

Martolod to Dyens and Tommy

strings truly excelled themselves,

Stravinsky was delivered by Jay

Emmanuel. Solo performances of

with string players accounting for

Chan ATCL Sch.Mus (4b). The

Beethoven and Schumann were

half of the ABRSM Performance

Chamber Music Recital on 27

also given by cellists Gareth

Grade entries, a Friday Lunchtime

November featured the Violin and

Kwong Exh.Mus and Sam Berry

YouTube String Recital of epic

Piano Duo’s (Alex Hobbs Sch.Mus

Exh.Mus (L6a).

proportions (who am I to turn

(U6c) and Isaac Bingley Sch.Mus

away boys champing at the bit to

(U6e) performance of Allegro

When the country went back into

perform Bach, Sarasate, and

Moderato from Dvorak’s Four

lockdown in January, remote

Vivaldi, to name but a few?), and

Romantic Pieces perfectly

recordings resumed and

the Piano Trio and String Quartet

captured the gentle movement of

performances from the strings

both performing in the Chamber

the piece and its feeling of

were offered by James Fielding

Music YouTube Recital. Both

wonderous calm. Performing in

(guitar) with the lively, pianistic

concerts showcase the excellent

the same recital was the Fourth

intricacies of Mertz’ Tarantella, Jay

string playing and chamber

Form String Quartet, featuring

Chan with a heartfelt performance

ensembles, and are available to

violinists Jay Chan ATCL, Orlando

of Bach’s Partita in D minor

watch on the Sherborne School

Tavener Sch.Mus (4b) and James

Allemanda for solo violin, and

YouTube channel.

Herbert Sch.Mus (4a), and cellist

Jack Pyman’s sparkling and

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Even though string numbers are small compared to that of the Woodwind and Brass departments, the wealth of musicality in the Lower School glittered at the Patrick Shelley Competition, with violinists James Herbert and Jay Chan winning the Junior Strings category. Isaac Bingley (guitar) and Alex Hobbs (violin) were joint winners of the Senior Strings category, with Isaac Bingley as winner overall. The Leavers’ Concert featured the final solo performances of the year, with Ciaran Smith Exh.Mus (U6b) performing the beautifully melodic and operatic Air sur un theme de Donizetti by Dancla, Alex Hobbs’ performance of the challenging Nigun from Baal Shem by Bloch, and an innate and musicianly performance of Sor’s Variations on a Theme by Mozart given by Isaac Bingley. Last but certainly not least, the Gala Concert featured the Chamber Orchestra and their performance of Hans Zimmer’s Time from

“I say to string players in small chamber orchestras, ‘it’s always easy to become a passenger on the journey in sound, just adding volume to the whole. But if you play in an individual way, it makes the difference between good and great sound in an orchestra.” itzhak Perlman

Inception, and Lullaby by Gershwin arr. Manookian. The violinists, violists and ‘cellists then made a confident contribution to the string section of the Concert Orchestra, brilliantly led by Alex Hobbs and section principals Ciaran Smith, Jay Chan and Sam Berry. This marked the culmination of the year’s learning, and it seems fitting that I leave you with the quote by Itzhak Perlman.

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WOODWIND By clare Jackson, Head of instrumental studies

With almost all music lessons continuing online, where undoubtedly the finer elements of music making such as dynamics and tone colour can get lost along the airways, shirburnians have still worked hard. in the michaelmas Term the pupils were able to have an exam with an examiner in the room and, amongst the many successes there were Distinctions at grade 8 for archie Burton Sch.Mus (L6a) (alto saxophone), angus

The Trinity music exams were digital for the first time and we had a Distinction success for Edward Brooks Exh.Mus (U6f) for Grade 7 oboe and a Merit for Finn Grammaticas (L6f) for Grade 7 flute as well as a Merit on the bassoon for Thomas Arbon Valderrama Sch.Mus (4e). Since all of our grade exams this year have been recorded and faceless, it must have felt very strange to our seasoned candidates and especially odd to those boys taking exams for the very first time.

experience on Zoom or Teams, there are elements of the Lent Term’s lockdown experience that we feel need to be retained. We now realise the value of backing tracks that boys really do enjoy playing along to, especially when rehearsing in sectionals.

There are so many play along apps available that, at the touch of a button a new world of music opens. Shirburnians now take their Grade 5 theory exams online and use training apps to help prepare for this new style examination.

Faced with another lockdown in January, we wanted the boys to have an aim and the newly created ABRSM Performance Grade provided the perfect platform to allow the boys to still make progress and move forward.

We had many entries across all three terms and whilst not every boy felt ready to upload their performance for exam purposes, they did record the work they had achieved as a record of their endeavours in highly challenging times.

Our informal concert series, which are open to all, except those who are music-award or who have performed in a Cheap Street lunchtime concert, was able to recommence in the Michaelmas Term.

Williams Sch.Mus (5c) (clarinet) and a merit for Joseph Page Sch.Mus (4b) on the treble recorder. Fergus Burtt Sch.Mus (u6c) showed enormous determination and dedication to gain his aTcL clarinet Diploma with Distinction. again, he faced the enormous mental challenge of giving a recital to no audience or examiner and he thoroughly deserved his successful result.

As musicians we have all felt the loss of immediate feedback after a performance. Whereas we can safely say that working with musicians in a live context is a blessed relief compared to the

The Wind Band has continued to thrive in numbers, despite having to rehearse in sectionals with screens. The inclusivity of this group enables boys of all standards to enjoy playing together. Every part can be adapted and the less experienced can learn, very often simply by listening, how to become a good reader. The band has explored repertoire from musicals such as Tangled, Grease, Aladdin and Robin Hood Prince of Thieves. In

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the Michaelmas Term the enormous challenge of recording the boys, with appropriate screens in the BSR, was undertaken. The band performed the music from Earth Wind and Fire and the Dambusters March. It took two conductors and total focus from the boys in order to record both pieces in the amount of time we were allowed to be together.

The joy of chamber music is in its adaptability and this year we have had three woodwind chamber music ensembles. The clarinet quartet, who performed an arrangement of Moon River in

the Michaelmas Term lunchtime concert, had to become a clarinet trio (due to quarantine) and they have continued to give regular performances in lunchtime concerts, with repertoire such as Mi Tradi Quell’Alma Ingrata from Don Giovanni and an arrangement of The Flower Duet, recorded remotely. Upbeat arrangements of lots of bits of Tchaikovsky, by Gordon Lewin, also characterised their year as recording artists!

Bart, arranged by Cooper. It is such a pleasure to have two high quality recorder players in Joseph Page Sch.Mus (4b) and Charles Temmink AR (4a) and this relatively new ensemble gave an excellent performance of the Trio sonata in C by Telemann in the Trinity Term Woodwind recital.

The Fourth Form Wind Ensemble also gave several performances, most notably of the Oliver Suite by Lionel

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ROCK AND POP

A

By michael Lehnert, Teacher of music Technology and rock/Pop

novel solution to the COVID-19 restrictions in the Rock/Pop world in Sherborne presented itself in the use of VST (virtual studio technology) to assist with practising. Boys were given headphones which were connected to the Mac computer in the Music Department’s studio, and their instruments - guitars, vocals and bass were then routed through the computer running Logic; this allowed the performers to hear their instruments through a ‘virtual amplifier’ that included effects and panning positions. So, noise was reduced and there was no need for raised voices and the dreaded aerosol! Needless to say, the first few rehearsals took a bit of time to get used to the new way of rehearsing - think ‘silent disco’! However, the most determined players soon found that their bands were indeed able to practise very effectively with the use of VSTs. The Upper Sixth band consisted of Tom O’Sullivan Exh.Mus (U6d) on bass guitar, Matt MacDonald Sch.Mus (U6c) on lead guitar, Alex Warland (U6m) on rhythm guitar and, although not in the same year, but family ties and much talent on the drum kit, Alex O’Sullivan Exh.Mus (3d). With some concerts to prepare for in the summer holidays, the band made excellent use of their rehearsals and could be seen but not heard! Two Lower Sixth groups consisted of Tiff Austen (L6d) on vocals, piano and guitar, Lucas Gardner AR (L6c) on bass and vocals, Hugo Blanchard (L6c) on guitar, Sam Berry Exh.Mus (L6a) on bass and on the drum kit, Charlie Collinge (L6f) and Luca Bryant (L6m). A few weeks were happily spent recording one of their own songs written by singer/songwriter Tiff Austen.

In his role as Head of DJSoc, Luca Bryant helped plan the return of weekly meetings in the Lent Term, although they were through Teams rather than face-to-face. With very limited numbers, boys had a handful of meetings in smaller groups throughout the Trinity Term and we hope to return to normal meetings when restrictions are lifted in the Michaelmas Term 2021.

In a new departure, not associated in any way with COVID-19 restrictions, a select number of boys started performing on a rather new instrument called the ‘Push Pad’ — a ‘controller pad’ that triggers sounds and which controls effects through a software program called ‘Ableton Live’. The club met once a week to study beats and to improvise on various set pieces of music from a variety of modern composers. From the start it was evident that the boys had a natural talent for performing electronic music with Jack Timmis (5m), Joss Ryan (5m), Callum Dron (4f), Jamie Hurrell (5g) and Hamish Hartley (5f) showing some considerable talent for remixing music.

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PaTricK sHELLEy cOmPETiTiOn FOr aDvancED PErFOrmErs 2021 WinnErs isaac BingLEy Sch.Mus (U6e)

(overall winner for outstanding performances in singing, piano and classical guitar)

FErgus BurTT ATCL Sch.Mus (U6c) (Senior woodwind: clarinet)

JEz mEaKEr (U6d) (Senior brass: trumpet)

HEcTOr KEnnErLEy Sch.Mus (4g) (Junior woodwind: oboe)

HEnry cannOn Exh.Mus. (4c) (Junior brass: trumpet)

aLEx O’suLLivan Exh.Mus. (4d) (Junior percussion: drum kit)

aLEx HOBBs Sch.Mus (U6c) and isaac BingLEy

JamEs HErBErT Sch.Mus. (4a)

isaac BingLEy and rancO Liu Sch.Mus (L6e)

Jay cHan ATCL Sch.Mus (4b)

TOm O’suLLivan Exh.Mus (U6d) and rancO Liu

sam BErry Exh.Mus (L6a)

(Senior strings: violin and classical guitar) (Senior piano)

(Senior drums/percussion)

(Junior strings: violin) (Junior strings: violin) (Senior singing)

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The Old Man There; there in the darkness, with sullen gaze, his eyes a-glazed stared back at me. A fighter’s face it was. A face that bore the scars of a long-waged battle with time itself. It was a war that could not be won, he knew, and knows it still. Yet a fighter’s heart was his, a heart that fights yet on, that beats in fear, and drives the motions of a man who knows not where he runs. He speaks not, and yet he scolds me. He grows not, and still grows weary. He seems to straighten up, a letdown man whose very faculties betray him. His is the mind of madness and mutiny, and yet the fighter’s eyes shine wisdom through the black. I ponder then the words those sun wide eyes convey. Who was I, who am I now to claim a jaded heart that feels despair, if one so troddendown would raise his eyes to mine in hope?

Still and still he speaks to me in silence. His peace is a taunt, a challenge to my judging inquisition. He is his own beholder, and in his eyes he wears his scars as trophies - each wrinkle is a badge, each silver strand of beard a braid that tells of lessons taught and wrought in bitter disappointment. He mocks me still, and to this day he cracks a smile in my mind’s eye, dismissive of my hasty premonitions. I am that which you are not, on this we can agree. And yet the warrior does not admit defeat. Time plays tricks on all his silent skin, and he plays them back with every breath he, scornful, draws. The fighter sees his end, and yet beyond the ice of long-still gaze shines still the defiant hope of one who laughs in the face of his own disillusion.

He would not wish me to mistake his severity for sadness. Try to understand, combatant, that I cannot share in your blind disobedience. There’s wisdom in your laugh-lines, those deepened scars of joy. To live your life will kill you, and yet you live on anyway.

The soft lighter lifts its pensive flame - one click, two clicks, and the darkness is routed. His eyes light up, illumined by the cherry red zippo that he holds. There is some comedy to it, the way he brings it closer, unashamed of his own fragility. He stares at the light as though it could stare back; as though he sees in it the eyes of those who live on only in his memory. His eyes shimmer like the stars on the inky sea. A tear of spiteful joy rolls proudly down his rosen cheek. The warrior lives for those who died, as though he bares their numbered headstones on his back. He stands lock-shouldered, buckled, braced, under the harsh weight of it all. He holds it not for duty nor for joy. He holds it just to spite his oldest enemy, the one that claimed the faces in the fire. His eyes widen and he turns to me. They seem to swear they will not close - not until he’s laughed his last and all his tears are dry. The silence chokes me now, and thoughts stick in my throat. I understand why the watchman will not sleep. The light is gone, and in my eyes, I see myself anew. We are much alike, you and I. We live because we see.

My own grey hair no longer weighs me down. My shoulders may buckle, but my spirit roars. And in my flame I see him still, the faithful fighter rests upon the moors.

Ed Pinnock (5a)

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Routine She sits on a small wooden chair at one end of the room.

At the other end, her bed and drawers rest, pushed up against the wall.

Her bed on the left, drawers on the right.

At the end of her bed, in the middle of the left wall, there is one small sink.

She would gladly inform you that it produces both hot and cold water.

The room is long and narrow; she measures it to be two metres wide and five metres forty-six centimetres in length.

She wishes it were five and a half metres.

There is a window above the sink, to her left.

If she looked out of it, she would see the close red brick of another large building.

But she doesn’t look out, not today.

There is one light in the room; a yellow bulb suspended above her and her chair.

She sits, motionless.

The room has no carpet or rug;

For those can get sticky and dirty, the disgusting things.

Instead, she owns a rough dark-wood floor, surrounded by crème coloured, (And, to her annoyance)

Partly weathered and cracked walls and ceiling.

The only fabric in the room, other than her clothing of course, Are the faded bed sheets.

She possesses white bedsheets and a white pillowcase; laced at the sides, And a crochet blanket on top for warmth;

rose patterned with blues, pinks, and greens.

On top of the drawers, sits a tabletop mirror, a hair comb, and a small box, equipped with lock and key.

The box is open and empty at the moment, the key sitting beside, But usually it contains her most treasured possession.

Clothing goes inside the drawers.

And, when dirty, they will be hand washed and soaked in the sink, and left to dry on the windowsill.

And this, is the contents of her room.

At the present moment, she has chosen to wear her second favourite outfit.

She is dressed in a blue and white knee length dress, also rose patterned, Equipped with many frills and folds.

She wears pink silk stockings, and petite black shoes.

Her hair is held back by a hair tie, again patterned with roses.

Red, this time.

The height of fashion,

She knows she is an eye turner.

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s She sits next to the door.

The door, that opens exactly four times a day.

Three times so she can fetch her meals; readymade and left on the doorstep by delivery.

These are distributed by the building’s caretaker, who once a week, (Thursday at 1 PM to be precise) Will also visit to clean.

He is a grouchy type, not respectable at all.

He will come and deliver lunch at the same time, so the door need not be opened any more times than the usual four.

The fourth time the door opens,

this is when she checks her post box.

She brings her bag for this outing, usually hung on a hook on the door, but it seldom returns with any added weight.

‘Just in case’, she would say to any passers by who might ask.

No-one has bothered to ask her yet though.

Today is a weekday, so she rose and dressed at seven.

One must always get up early on a weekday.

On the weekend, however, she treats herself to another hour of lying in bed, looking at the ceiling.

She wakes at six thirty you see, and cannot go back to sleep.

She tells the building’s caretaker, when on his Thursday visit, it’s her ‘natural body-clock’ that wakes her up.

She has a strict regime; never changed, never broken.

After she gets up, she must pace her room thirty times, - for fitness, and all round bodily health.

After exercise, she will retire to her chair for the rest of the day.

Excluding the times when she opens the door, of course.

8:30 AM, 1:15 PM, 6:00 PM, She will get up, Turn around,

Pick up the tray under her chair, Open the door,

And swap the trays,

One half eaten, one fresh and uneaten.

She will then sit back down, and taste the platter on her lap.

The same as always:

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Canned beans, dried meat, two slices of bread, and, for pudding, tinned pear.

Just how she likes it.

3:30 PM, trip to the post box.

On Sunday afternoons, she sits at the edge of her bed, looking out of her window.

An end-of-week treat.

Last weekend, she counted one thousand four hundred and twenty bricks.

She plans to check again next Sunday.

In the evenings, she relieves herself.

Excrement goes down a hole connected to the back of the sink.

Sleep at nine.

Time is kept by a clock, hovering above the bed.

In her chair, she often watches the minute hand.

She swears that it only moves when she is not looking, and that it is still when she watches it.

She is not watching it now, though.

Other times, she stares at a tattered Polaroid photograph.

This, is her most treasured possession.

It is of a young couple; a tall boy with dark hair, and a smiling girl under his arm.

They stand in an open field, with long grass surrounding them, perhaps almost waist height.

It is a sunny day, in the photo.

It is ten pm.

The light casts a dim yellow over her head, which sags forward.

Her eyes are focused on the photograph in her lap.

The photograph of the couple, whom she has never met;

a photograph which turned up in her post box by mistake.

At eight forty-two, her usual routine was broken.

She died.

The morgue gets the time of death wrong, though.

By three minutes.

Their papers say eight forty-five.

Oscar Welchman (L6b)

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Ending.

The figure shuffles on.

Sand, corroding his boot heels.

Wind, gently brushing that coarse face.

No sign of remorse imprinted on those hands.

His long, dark, greasy hair flutters in the breeze, Kept only in check by a dusty brown hat.

His belt buckle, once gleaming, now tarnished by blood and time.

His long brown coat flails, The forgotten flag of a collapsing nation.

The desert consumes all, but this one man.

For now he moves further on, Becoming only a wisp of a memory.

Those sharp cheekbones, dry from sand and stubble Twitch, one final time.

The eyelids gracefully lower.

The crowning moment is here.

Fabian mercer (L6b).

Scissors of Sorrow My handles lay on the table, My blades sat by the label, But the nails sat separate, with a devilish grin, Waiting to bind them together, And commit their unholy sin.

What am I now?

Pieces and parts joined together, For I now feel greater, and stronger than ever, What am I now?

My blades of steel slash and shear, All around I see pain and tears, Paper and cardboard cut into strips, I now no longer see any joy in this.

What have I done?

What have I become?

To inflict this torture, And impose upon others with peril and fear,

The Forgotten King of Fire The kingdom of winter, Where cold and famine reigns The warrantable heir, Forgotten for an age Now demands his crown.

The kingdom of winter Where the northern winds rule.

The forgotten king, Himself, now on fire.

The fire, small but Beautiful. Lights the kingdom Once ruled by winter.

The old king vanished, But would not be forgotten again.

Joonsang Hyun (3f)

Only to hide and escape, From my own nightmares.

My work is done, I have returned to the pencil case, To realise and face my greatest fear, Left alone in the darkness as the zipper is shut, And my thoughts creep out, Tearing me down, My time is up.

charlie sclater (3m)

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T STORY

SHOR

A soft, quiet voice echoes across the once-picturesque landscape. Trees once full of erupting blossom now stand: skeletal, silent, slender, finger-like, protruding from the cold ground where those great things once stood. A rusted gate stands full but empty. No one has passed through, not even the rodents. A man lives alone. He sings, plays an untuned piano, with mould grasping the legs, but he sings and plays none-theless. The house one hour so proud, so strong, was the next hour Broken But the man plays on. His music seems to evaporate the pain felt by the people but not totally.

Statues of great Greek warriors have had one last fight, but against an unseen, unknown enemy. They lost. Dark, winged beasts rule the battlefield now, sweeping in that familial, murderous way. Their only battle-cry the raspy, clutching crack that the beats cry. No more processions, no more prowess, their only legacy destroyed by an enemy unknown.

The gates that kept the enemy out now keep the Friend in. The black paint peels, a call for help, the show of weakness a reminder of the Pain Shells of cars, lie unchanged and impure, black and white and grey and the music plays on. It flows through the gates, and windows and through the doorframes and through the walls. The man who plays has cracks in his skin like trenches, like the house. The man who plays is beautiful but broken, like the house. The man who plays has white hair, or grey or black. The house is broken.

Glass lies shattered years later, in small clusters, uncontrolled, unreasonable, unknowing. The windows that held in sound now serve the murderous beasts of the sky, their tarnished, dusty black wings glide vehemently through them to destroy the great place again, the gates powerless to the beasts. The gentle music that the old man plays ring a delicate tone throughout the land, serves as a reminder of all that the building once was, but from that day the building was no more. No more pride, no more glory, now it is Shameless; It is Violent; It is Dark; Loud yet quiet; Beautiful yet Broken; Gone But the music, the music that rang out that day, rings out once again. It is beautiful, compassionate, precious. Like a petal from a rose, it is so full of colour, a beautiful blue or red or black.

But roses have thorns.

Benedict robertson (5m)

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Commemoration 2021

F

or the second year running, COVID19 restrictions necessitated a virtual commemoration ceremony. But being apart didn’t dampen the spirit of celebration.

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Anyone who heard the opening chords of the Commemoration 2021 soundtrack and watched the swooping views of Sherborne’s skylines could have been forgiven for experiencing a feeling of déjà vu. As Dr Dominic Luckett’s tones introduced us to another virtual ceremony, there was a sense of history being repeated, after COVID-19 restrictions necessitated a last-minute cancellation of the intended inperson proceedings.

Even so, the occasion was one of celebration, positivity and joy. As ever, it was an opportunity to honour the contribution made by parents and grandparents to the education of Sherborne’s pupils. It was a chance to mark the commitment of Sherborne’s staff, and to give thanks for the leadership of the governors.

Most important of all, it was a chance to mark the achievements of the boys themselves, in a year unlike any other: to take stock of all that had happened in 2020-21 and celebrate the dedication and tenacity of the School’s pupils, displayed in a rich variety of spheres.

Such was the message offered by the Headmaster in his opening welcome. His was a tone of gratitude and congratulation for a job well done, amid the most difficult of circumstances.

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a whole-school effort Dr Luckett’s sentiments were echoed in a speech by Chairman of Governors, Lieutenant General David Leakey (b 70). He paid tribute to the Headmaster for this “stellar effort” in guiding Sherborne through the challenges of the pandemic, as well as thanking outgoing Bursar, Lucy Robins, for her commitment during years of service.

David expressed his gratitude for, and appreciation of, Sherborne’s governors and the whole staff team for all that they have done in the past year. He said they had performed “miraculously” in the face of the COVID-19 challenges, often going above and beyond to safeguard the education offered to the School’s pupils.

After celebrating the achievements of the boys themselves, it was fitting that David handed proceedings to the Heads of School, Jonathan Post (U6a) and William Loughlin (U6d). They delivered the

expressions of thanks for their Sherborne experience.

customary speech in a mix of rhyming couplets and

They included a touching reference to the speeches of

doggerel, noting the oddities of their COVID-19

previous generations, and cleverly inveigled a plea for

experience and expertly blending in-jokes with sincere

environmental action into their wittily crafted verse.

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Dr Luckett went on to thank Will and Jono for their speech and describes them as the “very finest of young men”.

celebrating success

The small details

It was then time for the

achievements in a broad range of

Summing up, Dr Luckett reflected

Headmaster’s speech, which

fields, including academic, co-

on the lessons learned during

began with Dr Luckett expressing

curricular and community service.

COVID-19, including a newfound

his regret at the lack of a face-to-

His speech was interspersed with

appreciation of the small details in

face Commemoration. He noted

some striking images of boys

life that are often taken for

particular disappointment for the

enjoying School life – a reminder

granted. He considered the

Sixth Form leavers, whose

of the vibrancy of Sherborne,

influence of movements like Black

experience over the last two years

even against the backdrop of

Lives Matter and Everyone’s

has been most disrupted but who,

COVID-19 restrictions.

Invited on pupils’ attitudes and

he said, have responded with

said the School was redoubling

forbearance and resilience

Dr Luckett celebrated the start of

efforts to challenge discrimination

throughout.

the Sports Centre project and

and outmoded attitudes,

expressing his thanks for the

embodying a culture of kindness

Dr Luckett went on to thank Will

donations made via the

and compassion.

and Jono for their speech and

Sherborne Foundation to support

describes them as the “very finest

it. He reaffirmed the School’s

After expressing heartfelt thanks

of young men”. He drew attention

commitment to the development

to colleagues, governors, parents

to the unveiling of the Alan Turing

of Westcott House and recorded

and the boys themselves, and

(h 31) bust, noting the happy

his pleasure at the integration of

tributes to staff who are moving

coincidence of the new £50 note

Sherborne Prep with the

on, Dr Luckett drew his speech to

featuring the Old Shirburnian

Sherborne Schools Group.

a close. He ended by once again

being released at the same time.

commending the leavers and encouraging them to make the

The Headmaster then offered his

most of their Sherborne

review of the year, picking out

experience as they go out into

highlights from the manifold

the world.

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Academic Review

T

homas Kuhn argued that knowledge advances through paradigm shifts: moments of abrupt change in which one way of thinking about the world is rapidly replaced by another - a better one. Whilst Kuhn was talking specifically in terms of scientific epistemology, I think his ideas are helpful in explaining what’s happening in schools at the moment. Or at least in ours. Kuhn’s ideas, ironically, argued that periods of crisis engender revolution - a completely new way of thinking about things.

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s Dr Tim FiLTnEss DEPUTY HEAD (ACADEMIC)

In many ways that is what’s been going on here, at

are able to seek help

successes, whilst

least academically. Two periods of lockdown have

through more sources

improving their

resulted in fundamental changes to the way we now

(e.g. glossary pages in

performance in targeted

work: devices are now routine, as are Teams and

OneNote, summary

areas – all that without

Zoom, and we are now rapidly reaching the point

notes, Teams posts, or

the hint of a red pen!

where almost everything is done electronically. Of

simply to post a note to

course, with exams still completed by hand there are

their teacher to ask for

always plenty of opportunities to work on paper and

assistance) and, with

to practise those essential manual skills, but the point

lessons now routinely

still stands.

recorded for those who are absent or working in

In September the ‘Kuhn Cycle’ will arguably come full

a different time zone, it’s

close with the completion of our COVID-accelerated

also much easier to

IT strategy. A Surface Pro 7 rollout will commence

catch up or revisit things

(which sees a tablet and stylus distributed to all

if you find you need to.

teachers in the School); all classrooms will have their

On that, I recently

Smartboards upgraded or replaced with interactive

witnessed a Chemistry

panels and a largescale programme of investment

lesson in which two boys

over the Summer replaces classroom PCs with new

recorded (and then

docking stations (and their accoutrements) from

uploaded) a distillate of

which teachers will be able to deliver lessons via their

the practical they were

new device. This offers a panoply of new ways of

doing because they

working which, to force the metaphor one last time,

wanted to keep a copy

completes the pedagogic shift. Most departments

to help with revision later

have been working with OneNote for months, initially

- a good idea, I thought,

as a vehicle for delivering content (resources, videos,

and one facilitated by

worksheets, papers and other teaching materials),

working in this way. In PE

and more recently for collaborative, reflective and

and Economics

other peer-based tasks. From September this will

colleagues have also

become the normal way of working, which offers

been trialling video

profound advantages. On the pragmatic front, never

commentary as a means

again should a pupil be able to lose his work (at least

of feedback. It’s gaining

in theory – it’s all backed up in the Cloud); revision is

traction and looks to

more manageable, as are the vicissitudes of filing,

offer a host of exciting

and it’s also much easier to help boys keep track of

methods of helping boys

their work or to turn in Hall. On a related note, boys

consolidate their

In the 2021 survey (completed during lockdown three), parents communicated overwhelming support for the provision the School had made for remote learning, with praise given particularly for efforts made by teachers to teach consistently, interactively and to a high standard.

My view is that, with the boys back in lessons (where they should be!) we can have our cake and eat it: all the advantages of face-toface provision with the benefits of our newlyadopted paradigm. This is what we’re aiming to build from in 2021-22 and, assuming COVID-19 plays ball, we’re very much looking forward to it.

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English At the start of the new school

defined by her gender or Agard’s

year, the English Department

impassioned argument not to

posed a question to the Third

condemn “a simple immigrant

Form: what is your identity? For

from Clapham Common” for

some young people questioning

speaking a different, vibrant

who they are and their role in the

English of his own.

world, this question proved to be a challenge. Are they defined by

However, the climax of this unit

their nationality, their gender or

came when we studied Andrew

by their interests? Who decides

McMillan’s The Men are Weeping

their identity? Is it something

in the Gym. When analysing the

they are born with or something

images of men who have “built

they acquire based upon life

themselves as statues” whilst

experience?

“crying in the toilet”, the boys

found themselves questioning The new Third Form poetry unit,

society’s preconceived notions of

devised by Tom Payne, aimed to

what it means to be a man and

explore these timeless questions

asking themselves whether the

by studying a mix of classical and

media has placed unrealistic

contemporary writers. We began

expectations on men. By the end,

by comparing two depictions of

boys were willing, not only to

Napoleon by Walter de la Mare

reflect on who they could be, but

and Miroslav Holub respectively,

also on how they felt about the

to consider how the opinions of

many possibilities before them.

others can influence our identity, before looking at the challenges people face when trying to discover who they are. Imtiaz Dharker’s Honour Killing and

Harriet cant

Head of English

John Agard’s Listen Mr Oxford Don were firm favourites amongst the boys for the ways in which they challenged societal expectations, whether it be Dharker’s narrator refusing to be

s

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• Kit Beilby - U6d

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Mathematics What makes Maths at this school a truly unique experience is the opportunity to practice so much beyond the syllabus, and how many boys are so willing to do so. Every year we see a large number of boys take part in individual maths challenges at every age level, with a significant proportion achieving gold certificates each time. In addition to this, there is the occasional team competition in which the School sends a team of its stronger mathematicians to other schools to compete in a variety of maths-based challenges.

Aside from the more competitive challenges, the Maths Department this year has been supporting boys in a variety of ways, from academic support available to anyone who would like help in any aspect of the subject, to more specific preparation for university entrance tests such as the MAT and STEP papers, as well as providing subject-specific interview preparation for boys in the Upper Sixth applying to study maths at University.

This year has presented its own unique challenges, but seeing the level of independence shown by the boys to work hard to grasp some difficult concepts away from school has been particularly impressive, and is something I’m sure they will continue into the future.

nicholas morris (u6a)

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Chemistry As we come to the end of an

this represents at a late stage

undoubtedly taxing year for boys,

in a boy’s studies will be a

parents and staff alike, it is worth

thing of the past (even if a

reflecting once again on where we

Surface is lost, an unlikely

are and how we are going

event one feels, the material

forwards. Those of you who have

will be backed-up to the

waded your way through one of

Cloud) and the sight of leaves

sport’s fixture, because we can

my articles before will be familiar

and loose paper blowing about in

record it (can’t you just feel the

with this theme, but as it must be

a charming autumnal scene will

unalloyed delight that this will

a vanishingly small number, I think

become less familiar. Of course,

generate in the pupil body) and

I can risk one more foray into the

where there is a ying there is a

put it in the lesson feed. All this is

world of COVID-19 without being

yang and physiotherapists are

just the tip of the iceberg, there

accused of self-plagiarisation by

likely to see a small fall in business

are the other online pieces of

many. The negatives of the

as boys no longer have to heave

software ranging from quiz sites to

pandemic are apparent to all and

huge books into and away from

digital whiteboard providers and

are written in uppercase, bold and

school.

educational video clip companies

large font (probably underlined

to just the rest of the interweb (I

and in italics) and have been well

And then there is OneNote and

know, it’s intentional, it makes one

rehearsed just about everywhere,

Teams. Despite its occasional

look charmingly out of touch).

but for COVID-positive thinkers

peccadilloes, OneNote is an

and opportunists there are huge

astonishing tool. In Chemistry we

So, as they say, what doesn’t kill

and important innovations that

intend to use it as a notebook, as

you makes you stronger and so it

can be made and indeed should

a collaboration space and as a Hall

is with this pandemic. One

be made.

space and store. Teachers are able

understands that it takes five years

to disseminate material without

for the impact of such an event to

The first of these comes with the

the need for paper and boys are

recede, but we are a year in and

rollout of the Surfaces that will

able to work with their pen-

feeling hopeful about the next

become ubiquitous from next

enabled devices to do all that they

academic year. Will there be a

term - the benefits are likely to be

would normally have done, but in

winter lockdown? Possibly. Will the

overwhelming. At the moment, we

a digital environment. Mistakes

summer exams be impacted in

have something of a mixed

are quickly and easily erased, with

some way? Probably. But are we

economy (books and computing

images and videos from the

feeling positive about the coming

power), from next term in the

internet easily imported and

year? Certainly!

Third Form and Lower Sixth Form

stored as a learning device. What’s

every boy and teacher will have a

not to like? In the case of Teams,

Surface. This will allow for easy

no boy need ever miss Chemistry

filing and storage of work, lost

again because of a Music lesson,

books and the catastrophe that

dental appointment or national

William Buckley Head of chemistry

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Biology inFLuEncing animaL sEx raTiOs Students who study biology A level regularly meet up at Biology Society to share new and exciting discoveries within the field. Jack Pyman (L6e) presented on the factors that determine whether animals’ offspring are male or female.

Normally there is an equal chance of either, but must this always be the case? That is exactly what Jack set about to

could be a significant influencing

3%, and the third 5%. Group one

was fed a diet high in saturated

group two 70%, and group three

factor. In a group of mice which

fats and low in carbohydrate, the fraction of male offspring in their litters was consistently greater than the expected 0.5.

Conversely in the other group which was fed a diet low in

saturated fat, the fraction of male offspring was consistently lower

than 0.5 (Cheryl S. Rosenfeld and

produced 42.1% male offspring, 85% (Marei et al. 2018). The

article didn’t offer a definitive

explanation for the trend, but it is thought that maternal conditions

while the ovum is developing can

adapt it so that it is more likely to receive a Y sperm than an X sperm or vice versa.

R. Michael Roberts 2004).

A more accurate way of shifting

Every type of animal has a

It isn’t particularly useful for us to

cytometry. The system carries

determines the sex of their

there are commercial benefits to

discover…

biological system which

offspring. Humans and other

mammals use the chromosomal system, whereby a sperm cell

could carry either an X or Y sex chromosome. If the Y sperm

fertilises the ovum, the offspring will be male and vice versa. The offspring sex ratio is therefore 1:1.

A study in mice in 2004

investigated whether the

chromosomal system could be

influenced by the conditions in

which the ovum develops, so that the ratio of male:female

probability is shifted and one or

the other becomes more likely. It

was reported that a mother’s diet

adjust the sex ratios in mice, but

doing it elsewhere; particularly in farm animals, where

predominance of male or female offspring is preferred depending on the purpose of the farm. The dairy industry, for example,

generally favours female offspring for milk production.

Therefore, a further study in 2018 investigated whether a similar trend might be seen in cattle

(Marei et al. 2018). Holstein cows were divided into three groups, and each was fed a diet with

different percentage content of

polyunsaturated fatty acids. The first group was given a diet of

fatty acid content 0%, the second

sex ratio is via the use of flow

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out rapid analysis on individual

A flow cytometer can analyse

or below, or 34°C or above

into X and Y sperm. The sperm

accuracy is only between 75%

33°C produces a male. This

sperm cells and separates them sample is stained and separated into droplets with one cell in

each, and a laser is then used to

measure the fluorescence of each cell. Because X sperm have a

different fluorescence to Y sperm, the two can be distinguished at this stage. To separate X and Y sperm, the droplets are given either a positive or negative

charge, and are then attracted to an oppositely charged plate. For example, an X sperm might be given a positive charge and

30,000 cells each second so the and 95% depending on the speed (Seidel 2014). Naturally, this offers a more significant shift of the sex

ratio than the diet influences, but there are reasons why it is not

universally used. First of all it is

for insemination.

survival (Coriat, Barnett, and Shimeld 1994).

conditions are viable methods for

sperm cells and so pregnancy

rates tend to be lower than those resulting from conventional semen (Marei et al. 2018).

chromosomal sex determination

the X sperm sample will be used

breeding purposes and species

sorting system can damage

but another consideration is the

sperm (with a negative charge)

the preferred offspring is female,

so that there are more females for

Therefore both flow cytometry

These methods wouldn’t work for

would go to the opposite side. If

ensures a sex ratio of around 5:1,

expensive and time consuming,

would therefore be attracted to the negative plate, and the Y

produces a female, while exactly

all animals, though. The

system isn’t universal, and

crocodiles’ offspring depends not on the nature of fertilisation, but

and adjustment of maternal altering sex ratios in the

chromosomal system, although

the latter provides an attractive

alternative to flow cytometry by

avoiding the problems associated with cost and pregnancy rates. In other species, though, it takes

something as easy as temperature controlled incubation to predict the offspring’s sex.

on the temperature at which the

crocodile egg is incubated. 30°C

Jack Pyman (L6e)

references Cheryl S. Rosenfeld, and R. Michael Roberts. 2004. ‘Maternal Diet and Other Factors Affecting Offspring Sex Ratio: A Review’.

Biology of Reproduction 71 (4): 1063–70. https://doi.org/10.1095/biolreprod.104.030890.

Coriat, Anne-Marie, Mark Barnett, and Sebastian Shimeld. 1994. ‘Sex in the Swamps: Temperature-Dependent Sex Determination in Aligators’. Biological Sciences Review Magazine 7 (1): 7–9.

‘Fluorescence-Activated Cell Sorting (FACS)’. n.d. SinoBiological. Accessed 9 October 2020. https://www.sinobiological.com/category/fcm-facs-facs.

Marei, Waleed F. A., Wael A. Khalil, Anil P. G. Pushpakumara, Mostafa A. El-Harairy, Ahmed M. A. Abo El-Atta, D. Claire Wathes, and Ali Fouladi-Nashta. 2018. ‘Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Influence Offspring Sex Ratio in Cows.’ International Journal of Veterinary Science and Medicine 6 (Suppl): S36–40. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijvsm.2018.01.006.

Seidel, G. E. 2014. ‘Update on Sexed Semen Technology in Cattle’. Animal 8 (s1): 160–64. https://doi.org/10.1017/S1751731114000202.

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Physics WHaT is PLanET ninE? Most people know there are eight planets in our solar system: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. Many people are also aware of Pluto, and there is often confusion as to whether it is classified as a planet or not. As of today, Pluto is defined as a dwarf planet – it is not one of the ‘official’ planets in our solar system. So, what on Earth (pardon the pun) is this socalled ‘Planet Nine’?

Now it must be made clear that Planet Nine has not been observed directly, but rather, its effects have. We can use Newton’s Laws of Gravitation, mainly that the gravitational force between two objects is proportional to their masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them. However, this has been superseded by Einstein’s Theory of General Relativity, which allows for more accurate models to be made. Using mathematical equations from these theories, we can predict just how various bodies will move through space based on the other bodies around them. For example, by measuring the way bodies in the Milky Way move, it’s clear that there must be a massive object in the centre attracting everything around it: a black hole!

There are many scenarios where we have proven that the equations from General Relativity or Newton’s Laws do work with incredibly high accuracy, and so we can say it is validated. But what has this got to do with Planet Nine?

Well, when astronomers were looking out to the Kuiper Belt (a field of icy debris beyond the orbit of Neptune), they noticed some clustering of orbits of objects. These objects are known as extreme trans-Neptunian objects (ETNOs). The strange thing is that when considering the predicted forces that these ETNOs should experience from known bodies in the solar system, these objects have no reason to be clustering the way they are. And so, astronomers are now claiming that these unusual gravitational effects could serve as evidence for an undiscovered giant planet in the mysterious far reaches of the Solar System.

In fact, Newton actually used his laws of gravitation to predict the existence of both Pluto and Neptune before they had ever been observed, and that was over 400 years ago!

So, perhaps this could be a similar situation? As it’s currently just theoretical, it has not been given a name. Hence, it’s only known as Planet Nine.

William Fahie (L6b) academic scholar

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Geography Ben Farmbrough (L6a), a budding

region of Primorski Krai, one of

Lower Sixth Geographer, has a

the most sparsely populated in

particular interest in under-

the world, there was little

standing more about the

economic opportunity compared

Geography of lesser known parts

to the glitzy cities of Moscow and

of our planet and here he shares

St Petersburg of Western Russia.

some highlights from a book he

The Amur, or Siberian Tiger is the largest of the world’s big cats, measuring up to three meters in length. It is found in the temperature rainforests of the Russian Far East, Manchuria - China, and North Korea and feeds mostly off wild boar, bear and deer.

Tigers have a unique capacity for

has recently read on the region of

memory. They can recognise a

Primorski Kra in the Russian Far

human who has threatened them

East.

months before, leading to many hunters being killed themselves.

Temperatures of -40°C, vast insect swarms, and the danger of the Spruce, pine and larch are reclaiming the urban environment, weeds grow through cracks in the pavement

About ‘The Tiger’ – The Tiger, by John Vaillant, is a book that tells the true story of various tiger attacks in the Bikin River Valley of the Russian Far East in the 1990s, and of the conservation team that are enforced with the task of finding and killing the tiger.

The fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 was heralded in the west as a great step forward.

However, many ordinary Russians would not agree. The restructuring of the Russian state post-communism, during what is known as Perestroika, lead to significant changes to Russian industry that had been in place

and alcoholism is rife. When all funding was withdrawn by the state for the mining and logging industries in 1991, mass unemployment arose. To survive, the population fell back on the forest, and more specifically on tigers. Despite the potential earnings, the killing of tigers was by no means glorified.

tiger itself makes hunting an unenviable business.

At the same time as the rise in unemployment, the borders with China opened, allowing elicit trade routes to develop; and nearly all funding for national parks and conservation were cut.

Between 1992 and 1994, one hundred tigers, roughly a quarter of the country’s wild population were killed.

Funding from the German government, NGOs such as the WWF and stricter hunting laws enforced by the Russian state for the last ten years have helped revive the tiger population to an estimated 550. However, this

for 70 years.

does not address the deep-

In the Russian Far East, a logging,

desperation of the people of the

mining, and fishing community called Sobolonye was hit especially hard. Located in the

rooted poverty, deprivation and region, and the corruption that blights every level of Russian society.

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History FirsT imPrEssiOns...

My first impression of Sherborne School was of the brazen inquisitiveness of the boys. I liked them immediately.

Before I could introduce my meticulously prepared first slide, I was assailed by questions like a Himalayan hailstorm. These included: where are you from? What have you done? And most significantly, what do you think of our school? I identified this final question as a thinly veiled cover for the real question that lay beneath: what do you think of us? Although outwardly confident as a pack, individual insecurities common to all teenage boys lurked just beneath the surface. I responded openly and honestly and hoped for the best.

My first impressions of the Department and School were of an organisation with engrained positivity and compassion. I was immediately struck by the culture of professionalism and friendliness from all quarters. I was also amazed by how much the boys seemed to achieve both individually and as a collective.

Throughout my first year the boys have proven to be a joy to teach. Due to lockdown 2.0 and online lessons my classes were treated to unintentional snippets of my family life with my three little ones making the rare but often comical appearance in the background of my lessons. Other highlights include entering a handful of junior boys into the Phoenix Essay Competition and hosting some of the weekly History Society gatherings whereby some of the brightest and keenest boys consider and examine all manner of thorny historical issues.

I have been fortunate to join a department that is well into its own Renaissance. Working under the charismatic and driven leadership of Charlotte Allen, the Department is in rude health. The team comprises a finely balanced combination of youth (ish), experience, cynicism, ambition, elegance and specialist interests. The unprecedented challenges faced by the team have made seemingly impracticable tasks just plain normal. From going paperless over the course of a weekend to switching between classroom, online lessons and back again, the 20/21 academic year has been challenging but brought progress for us all.

I finished the year with my first impressions firmly intact.

William mackenzie-green History Teacher

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‘THE grEaTEsT OF aLL suBJEcTs’...

In the bleak blizzard of a year that was COVID-19, one of the few things that has kept me going has been my enjoyment of History and the support of the History Department. It was, I must admit, a difficult year with many of the staff struggling to traverse the complexities of OneNote, yet Miss Allen’s guiding hand and the teachers’ perseverance saw the History Department triumph over the technological difficulties. Remote learning of course posed another challenge, with questions being asked by teachers, only to be met with the grim silence of muted mics and with students chronically late for lessons because they were sleeping in. Once again however, the History Department rose to the challenge and the remote learning was a great success.

The enthusiastic passion of the Department’s teachers has shone through in adversity and has engaged my own deep-rooted interest in History throughout the year. I have thoroughly enjoyed the course, whether it’s the violent History of the Crusades, the treacherous politics of 20th Century Britain or the preeminent British Empire, it has all been fascinating to me. The teachers have been engaging and their obvious enjoyment for the subject they teach has been instrumental in the success of the History Department this year.

Among the brilliant and slightly eccentric cast of teachers that the Department has to offer, Mr Reynolds has forever perplexed me with his ability to arrive early at school and act as though he’s just won the lottery for the entire day, probably a result of his love for the Crusades. Miss Allen, the steadfast Head of History, is able to talk until the sun sets and her excitement when any mention of the Tudors comes up is an awe-inspiring sight.

The support of the Department has been key to me realising my ambition of reading History at university and the rigorous grounding in this greatest of all subjects will stand me in good stead in the years to come.

Harry mcginty (u6a) Winner of the Alison Blenkinsop Prize for History 2021

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Modern Foreign Languages For many in the MFL department, the year really kicks off in the third week of September when we celebrate the European Day of Languages. On this day, if you walk through the

Grove, you will hear boys trying out a plethora of new languages, such as Russian, Arabic, Dutch and Swahili. You will see Upper Sixth students teaching French, German or Spanish to the Third Form. Crossing through the School, you may come across groups of Third Formers solving treasure hunt clues about the School’s history in the language of their choice. This day is important to us not only because it reminds us of multilingualism in today’s world but because it gives us a chance to share with the pupils our love of languages and linguistic challenges. For this reason, the MFL department has always run a range of enrichment events. We have adapted to the restraints and opportunities of the COVID-era by hosting Ateneo events via zoom. This has enabled us to tap into the experiences of Old Shiburnians living or working in the Spanish-speaking world. The Germanists have enjoyed film discussion events with food and drink representing the historical period of the film.

We are delighted to have Sixth Formers each year take AS languages or DELE, DELF or Zertifikat course alongside their main subjects. A good number of these students are future Medics or Vets, who have the foresight to see how important communication skills will be to them. New for this year was a continuation course for post-GCSE German pupils with a focus on spoken skills. From September, we are opening up this course to all postGCSE pupils in French, German, Spanish and Chinese. We are looking forward to the expansion of the clubs and societies programme, which means we can offer linguistics club all year round as well as beginner-level courses in languages such as Russian. We are also offering pupils a multi-language club where they will get a short introduction to a new language each week.

With a hopeful return to normality in September, the MFL department is keen to bring languages alive through the enrichment programme, where all boys should find a course or event to get them engaged and interested in language study.

Judy Thurman Head of modern Foreign Languages

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Classics THE THirD FOrm cLassics PrOJEcT Classics is now an option in the Third Form and Sherborne offers Latin, Latin combined with Greek, Latin ab initio and Classical Civilisation. As well as preparing the boys for the GCSE course, the Third Form also offers us the chance to enthuse and inspire the boys, but more importantly open their eyes to the influence of the classical world on our own, an influence that is all around us, in our languages, in our political systems and in our architecture, to name but a few. The Third Form is also an opportunity to instil in our boys an independent and self-responsible approach to their studies.

As part of this, all boys who study a classical subject complete a Classics project at the end of the Lent Term, designed to offer them a chance to explore an aspect of the classical world with imagination and creativity. On the following page is a submission from Toby Kilmartin (3e), who chose the title ‘A panel of characters from Homer’s Odyssey meets to discuss whether Odysseus should be allowed to retain his passport or have it revoked.’ stephen Heath Head of classics

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MINUTES OF MEETING of the Board of Directors of the Ithaca Special Council held at the City Hall, Vathi, Ithaca, on XXV Maimakterion, MCLXXVIII BC, at noon PRESENT:

ABSENT:

Agamemnon of Mycenae - Chairman

Apologies (sent from family members) -

Menelaus Atreusopoulus

son of Melaneus; and Ctesippus, of Same;

Helen of Troy

Achilles of Phthia Hector of Troy

Eumaeus of Ithaca Paris of Troy

Telemachus of Ithaca

Agelaus, son of Damastor; Amphimedon, as all recently deceased.

Telemachus declared a conflict of interest, as son of Odysseus. The Chairman

decreed that Telemachus could not vote.

IN ATTENDANCE: Aelius Herodianus - Secretary chairman, notice and Quorum 1.1 1.2

Agamemnon was appointed as the Chairman of the Meeting.

The Chairman reported that notice of the Meeting had been given and that a quorum was present

and accordingly, declared the Meeting open.

Purpose of the meeting 2.1 2.2

The Chairman reported that on VI Maimakterion, MCLXXVIII BC, Odysseus, King of Ithaca, had

requested that his passport be renewed.

Accordingly, the Chairman reported that the business of the Meeting was, inter alia, to consider and,

if thought fit, approve:

2.2.1 the form and content of the passport to be granted to Odysseus.

Evidence Produced to the meeting 3.1

There was produced to the Meeting the following:

3.1.1 statement made by Ciconian’s City Council rep:

“Odysseus arrived with his men in twelve ships directly after their victory at Troy. We were fearful of

them and retreated into the mountains. They plundered our city but made the mistake of drinking too much of our excellent wine and fell asleep on the shore. We returned in the night with our neighbours and retaliated. The survivors speedily returned to their ships and sailed away.

We worry that Odysseus may seek retaliation, so we would prefer him not to be given another

passport.”

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3.1.2 statement made by the Lotus-Eater’s Horticultural Society President:

“Odysseus’ men loved our Lotus flowers when they visited. These lovingly nurtured florae help relieve stress

and are great for insomniacs. They come highly recommended. When you are next passing, drop in and try our amazing product, so good you will never want to leave.”

3.1.3 statement made by Poseidon:

“I wish to object to the renewal of Odysseus’s passport. Odysseus invited himself to the Cyclops’s island,

illegally entered my son Polyphemus’ home, where he helped himself to Polyphemus’ food and then

attacked and blinded Polyphemus when he returned, after getting him drunk. He should have his right to the freedom to travel revoked. If you give him a passport; I will curse him again.”

3.1.4 statement made by Aeolus:

“I fed Odysseus and his men for a month and gave them a gift of a bag of wind to help them home. They

squandered this gift. I’m afraid I was not so hospitable on his second visit. I would prefer to have no more visits; I won’t suffer fools.”

3.1.5 statement made by a Laestrygonian (who would prefer to remain anonymous):

“I wish to apologise to Odysseus. His men visited our island Telepylos, having anchored in our safe harbour.

But my parents behaved abominably; not only spearing and eating his men, but also smashing up all their ships (they are giants). Thankfully Odysseus had had the sense to anchor further away.”

3.1.6 statement made by Circe:

“I support the renewal of Odysseus’s passport. He stayed on my island Aeaea for a year and he was a

charming guest. He outwitted me, getting help from dear Hermes. He even persuaded me to turn my pet pigs back into his men. I would very much like him to visit me again.”

3.1.7 statement made by Tiresius:

“Odysseus showed great bravery visiting me in the Underworld. I told him to get home he would need to

pass between the two monsters Scylla and Charybdis. He would have to sacrifice six of his men to pass them safely. I’m impressed he still wants to travel after such an ordeal.”

3.1.8. statement made by Siren choir-mistress:

“Odysseus is either a fool or very brave. Whilst he protected his men from our bewitching singing, plugging

their ears with wax, he remained with his auditory perception unsullied, as he wanted to hear our melodies.

Sadly, he had instructed his men to tie him to the mast, as he knew he wouldn’t be able to resist us.”

3.1.9 statement made by Helios:

“Odysseus allowed his men to slaughter and feast on my cattle when they visited my island, Thrinacia. He

had been warned not to touch my cows by both Circe and Tiresias, so my wrath was justifiable. I went

through the proper channels and lodged my complaint with Zeus. After careful consideration, Zeus hit them with a thunderbolt. Only Odysseus survived. I feel he may have learnt his lesson.”

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s 3.1.10 statement made by Nafsica:

“I found Odysseus washed up on our shore, barely alive. He had escaped on a raft, from Calypso, a nymph

who had kept him entrapped for seven years. I took him to my parents, King Alcinous and Queen Arete. He told us what he did in the Trojan War and how his cunning plan, using a giant wooden horse, masquerading as a gift to the Gods, to gain entry to the city; allowing his men, hidden inside, to open the city gates, thus bringing to a victorious end the ten year war. He was desperately trying to get home; his journey had

already kept him away from his wife Penelope and son Telemachus for a further ten years. We were more than happy to help by giving him our fastest ship.”

3.1.11 the statement made by the Greek Sailors’ Union rep:

“Having lost all his crew, who were all union members, I must object to his request for a new passport. He

cannot be trusted to show due diligence and care for those in his employment.”

3.1.12 the oral evidence of Polyphemus:

Polyphemus: “Odysseus stabbed a stake into my eye and then took off with my food supplies. Do not give

him a passport ever again. He may be a nobody, but he is dangerous; a criminal that should be punished for what he did to me.”

Calypso: “But Polyphemus, you were holding him hostage in your cave and ate several of his men. You can

hardly blame him for using any method he could to escape. Your actions had consequences.”

Poseidon: “Calypso, my son needs to eat, he can’t help being a man-eater, they shouldn’t have looked so

tasty.”

Polyphemus: “They weren’t that tasty. Certainly not as good as my mutton chops. Definitely not worth

losing my sight over.”

Odysseus: “You are right, the mutton chops were good, as was your cheese, honey and wine…”

Chairman: “Odysseus, you are not doing yourself any favours, especially if you want this passport.”

Odysseus: “Apologies.”

Polyphemus: “You owe me for all that you stole from me, Odysseus, plus my sight. If you do get a passport,

I will certainly eat you next time. You may have made a fool of me last time with your trickery and deceit, but you won’t get away from me again.”

3.1.13 the oral evidence of Calypso:

“Give him his passport. I miss him dreadfully. He has the protection of Zeus, Hermes and Athena. He must

be allowed to travel once more.”

3.1.14 the oral evidence of Zeus:

“As head God I insist that the committee renew Odysseus’s passport, I will not have my people denied the

right to travel!”

Chairman: “You have no authority here Zeus! No authority at all!”

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3.1.15 the oral evidence of Odysseus:

“Having fought in the Trojan war, my men and I were returning to Ithaca by ship and relied on xenia to

help us home. Aeolus, Circe, Calypso and the Phaeacians were very hospitable, but Polyphemus most certainly was not. When I arrived at the Cyclops’ island and met Polyphemus, I said “Good sir, do not

refuse us: respect the gods. We are suppliants and Zeus protects visitors and suppliants, Zeus the god of guests, who follows the steps of sacred travelers.” But he took us hostage, trapping us in his cave and eating some of my men, showing total disrespect to Zeus and a total disregard to xenia.

I had to do what I did to save the rest of my men and escape from certain death had we remained in

Polyphemus’ cave.

This should not deter you from renewing my passport so that I can trade with other kingdoms.” consideration of the evidence 4.1

Each Director confirmed that he had carefully read the written evidence and carefully listened to the

oral evidence. The Chairman took the Meeting through the evidence, to the vote.

All those in favour: Agamemnon, Helen, Menelaus, Achilles and Eumaeus.

All those against: Hector and Paris

resolutions 5.1

Following due and careful consideration, iT Was rEsOLvED that:

5.1.1 Full passport to be granted to Odysseus is hereby approved.

close

There being no further business, the Chairman declared the Meeting closed.

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Economics & Business cLOuD sTOragE The chances are high that you have come into contact with Cloud Storage in the last week, streaming a Netflix series or a sports event on your laptop or phone, or using your Fitbit. Cloud storage is everywhere around us.

On a large scale, Cloud Storage replaces your current server storage and on a micro level replaces flash drives. This following is an extract from an essay, which focuses on the large-scale storage of data. The advantages of Cloud Storage in comparison to using servers are flexibility, price elasticity, and low management requirements. The most attractive being flexibility. All of the major Cloud Storage providers apply a pay-as-you-go fee structure. This means during periods of high demand, you can increase your storage capacity and in times of low demand, decrease it. A user only pays for Cloud Storage actually needed. Previously a user would always pay for access to enough capacity to meet the highest demand. Many servers would remain idle for most of the year or the user would not be able to accommodate high storage demands.

According to the Synergy Research Group, today’s cloud infrastructure market has a size of about USD 111 Billion. Of this market, Amazon Web Services (AWS) has a market share of 33%, which is as much as the next three providers: Microsoft, Google, and Alibaba. Big Tech companies providing Cloud Storage currently form an oligopoly. Should we regulate it?

Reregulation of Big Tech Cloud Storage services is easy to argue. There are reasons and valid justifications for regulation. The primary intention of regulation is to ensure that there is no foul play between companies and to prevent dominant

Illustration 1: Market Share of leading cloud infrastructure service providers in Q2 2020 (includes PaaS and IaaS as well as hosted private cloud services)

companies from increasing their market power against smaller players and, therefore, indirectly harming the consumer. Many neoclassical economists or free-marketeers strongly oppose regulation as a barrier to growth and interference with the evolution of the economy. However, this way of thinking only truly works without any rules and regulation, for example no rules preventing child labour[1], lack of worker protection, etc. But these measures are necessary for a fair society and economy.

Therefore, it is clear, that a genuinely free-market would not work practically, and so this entire premise is false, the fundamental assumption is incorrect.

As an unregulated market cannot work, some regulation is necessary. Herbert Simon, an economist developed a theory known as the theory of bounded rationality.[2]

This theory says that humans tend to be irrational, not because we have enough information, but rather too much. This overflow of information overwhelms our cognitive ability and leads to irrational decisions. You can apply this theory to regulation as Cambridge Professor Ha-Joon Chang showed in his book 23 Things They Don’t Tell You About Capitalism.

When a market ages and becomes more mature, it becomes more complex and reaches a level of complexity that humans are increasingly unable to understand. For example this partially triggered the 2008 financial crisis. The banks did not know or acknowledge the complexity of the products they were selling and neither did buyers. Failure was ultimately inevitable.

Should we apply this theory of bounded

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rationality to the Cloud Storage market and therefore impose more regulation? No, not really, that would be too easy. Just because something is complex doesn’t mean it should be regulated. The Cloud market functions effectively and is dynamic: there are low-prices, alternative offers and the consumer benefits from use of Cloud storage. Businesses can turn access to Cloud Storage on current terms into growth. As companies grow, so does the economy.

This benefits companies and consumers. We have covered the benefits of Cloud Storage in action.

Netflix is one of the beneficiaries, other examples are Slack[3], and Uber.[4] Regulation is there to manage or limit the behaviour of market participants and the complexity of a good or service, ultimately to protect the market and the consumer. Currently, Cloud Storage providers from AWS to Alibaba have shown no foul-play and no abuse of their power, which would encourage governments to actively think about regulation.

Furthermore, regulation does not react to changes in the market quickly. The Cloud Storage market is dynamic, large and potent; it continually changes both in size and scope. To call for regulation, one should consider whether the advantages of regulation outweigh the drawbacks. In a dynamic market, regulation would appear to hinder further market growth and ultimate benefit to companies and consumers. However, and this is of utmost importance, rather than using potential drawbacks as an excuse not to discuss regulation, we should develop a regulatory structure as a prophylactic measure so we are ready when the situation changes to the detriment of the market and consumers. The cost of not having any regulation in place is too high, if we wait until we have become deeply dependent on Cloud Storage.

The next problem is who should be the competent regulatory body? A new regulatory body would not be necessarily required as there are bodies in charge of IT and telecommunications. For example, the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) in the United States, the office of Telecommunications (Oftel) in the UK, and the Bundesnetzagentur (BnetzA) in Germany. Independent of the government agency, regulation of Cloud services should be consistent on international and national levels. A supranational agency that could coordinate international rules is the International Telecommunications Union (ITU). For now, regulation of Cloud services is not paramount. However, the long-term goal could include price caps or set costs Cloud Storage providers can charge, but such approaches have other drawbacks. One could also consider enhanced data security and mandatory segregation of business divisions within Big Tech groups (e.g. Amazon and Google). Data security has two aspects, who has access and for what purpose.

There are already laws in place for data security (EU, US, UK) but not for access and data use by companies in the same group and its effect on the market.

[1] Ha-Joon Chang (2010). 23 things they don’t tell you about capitalism. London: Penguin Group.

[2] Ibid, p.12.

[3] Viztech Author (22/09/2016). Top 5 Billion Dollar Companies Using AWS Cloud. https://www.vizteck.com/post/top-5-billion-dollar-companies-using-awscloud(13/06/2020) [4]Larry Dignan(10/05/2020) Uber vs. Lyft: How the rivals approach cloud, AI, and machine learning. https://www.zdnet.com/article/uber-vs-lyft-how-the-rivalsapproach-cloud-ai-machine-learning/(14/06/2020)

Jacob schwandt (L6f)

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Theology nEW yOrK, nEW yOrK Christianity gets a lot of bad

faiths – but in the end, one place

geographic area. There are

press, but one thing that it’s good

kept calling me: New York.

Buddhist viharas, Pentecostal churches, a Jewish identity that is

at is looking to the future. The Kingdom of God, the return of

I first went to New York in my 20s

constantly referenced in films and

Jesus, the Apocalypse, all of these

and like many before me, it blew

TV shows, to say nothing of the

events are anticipated by many

my mind. The energy, the scale of

Catholic community shown in the

Christians, some more eagerly

the buildings, the endless

films of Martin Scorsese and

than others. And one of the things

adventures and sense of

embodied in the character of Joey

that has got me through the last

possibility were almost

Tribbiani in Friends. It is an

year has been hope for what will

overwhelming. I was an

amazing place to go and

come after the pandemic when

impoverished bookseller at the

experience a wide range of

we’re able to get out and

time and soon ran out of money,

people from different religious

experience the world again.

but my guidebook said I could

and social backgrounds, living

earn a quick $40 by selling some

together in relative harmony and I

I spent a lot of time in Sherborne

of my blood. I found a clinic, they

am beyond excited to go and

last year and while it’s a beautiful

tapped a vein and took their pint,

explore the city.

place, in fact one of the best

but when I asked for my money, it

places in the world to spend

turned out I had gone to one of

Which is why I am in the middle of

lockdown, I really want to get

the few voluntary clinics and so

arranging a trip to New York for

away from it for a while. In

had to leave the city earlier than I

next Easter. As well as visiting

between teaching remote lessons

wanted to. But in a very real sense,

many of the most exciting

in my classroom, my thoughts

some of me has always remained

Buddhist and Christian sites, we

would stray to other places in the

in Manhattan.

will be experiencing the cultural richness of the city and seeing

world I’d like to go to. Many of the places I thought of had religious

Some of my colleagues have

how a multiplicity of cultures can

connotations and would have

questioned how I can justify a

blend together to form an identity

been great for a School trip – India

religious studies trip to New York,

that transcends its constituent

for its incredible diversity of

but the fact is that there are few

parts. And hopefully nobody is

religious life, Jerusalem for its

places on Earth that have such a

going to lose any blood.

importance to the Abrahamic

rich religious life in such a small

James crawford Head of Theology

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Computer Science The newly formed Computer Science

Boys from various year groups have

department has gone from strength to

attended Junior and Senior Code Club and

strength this year, with some excellent

enjoyed developing their programming

achievements by boys.

skills as well as solving more complex

Third Form have been working towards

problems.

their iDEA Digital Enterprise awards and by

Additionally, The Algorithm of the month

the end of term over 65% will have

has given us some incredible solutions by

completed this award. Of these, over a

some dedicated individuals, especially

quarter are now working towards their

Kohki Hatori, William Fahie (L6b) and Sam

Silver award.

Berry (L6a).

Boys across Third, Fourth and Fifth Form

Finally, The Turing Virtual Reality project

took part in the national Bebras Challenge

has involved boys from all year groups, and

for the first time, where 15 boys achieved a

they have been busy 3D-modelling the

score in the top 10% of students nationally.

inside of the library along with many of

Hector Kennerley (4g), Tom Ke (5e) and

Alan Turing’s (h 31) artifacts and books that

Kohki Hatori (5e) went on to compete in

he read during his time at Sherborne. The

the Oxford Computing Challenge, where

team now have a splendid virtual library

Tom achieved a Merit.

that we can walk about in, pick up

Fourth and Fifth Form boys also took part in the Perse Coding Team Challenge with two teams of Fourth Formers qualifying for

Professor Turing’s belongings and examine them or read actual pages from his school reports or books that he read.

the national final; Hector Kennerley. Henry Alexander (4a), and Douglas Groves (4c) went on to achieve a Distinction in the final; an outstanding achievement for students in their age group.

David Wild Head of computer science

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Extended Project Qualification William Fahie (L6b) academic scholar

My Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) was an evaluation of the possibility of building a self-sufficient colony on Mars using current science and technology. The focus was on four main areas. The first was really a prerequisite: GRAA (a name I came up with), which stands for General Resource Acquisition Approach. That’s essentially the attitude/method we’ll take to gathering resources. The three other (main) areas were that of producing oxygen, water and food. One must note that there is a lot more to living on Mars, however, those three are unique in that they are the basic requirements for human life. Thus, through focusing primarily on them, I was able to explore the fundamental feasibility of living self-sufficiently on Mars.

Having never done something like an EPQ before, I knew there would be a huge learning curve. Thus, being a largely independent project, it was quite intimidating to begin with. However, I was able to thrive thanks to the tips and advice I received from my supervisor (Dr Mertens) during our weekly tutorials, as well as the skills and knowledge from my teacher (Miss Allen) during our weekly lessons. The workload is comparable to doing an additional AS level, but by planning extensively (which we’re encouraged to do) and then having the discipline to stick to those deadlines, the workload does not feel excessive in any way.

Being the first to finish in my cohort, I did my presentation on 24 June. It was the first live audience presentation the School has done since they started doing the EPQ. It involved me going through an electronic presentation in front of 15 or so people. I explained my reasons for choosing the topic, my actual findings and conclusions, my reflections upon the journey, and ended by answering questions from the audience. I absolutely loved presenting it and have no doubt it has given me skills and confidence I wouldn’t have otherwise had.

I was fortunate enough to interview three specialists: Dr Thomas Clayson (CTO of a rocket propulsion company called Magdrive), Prof Alex Ellery (f 18) (Canadian professor in mechanical and aerospace engineering) and Crispian Poon (m 08) (CEO of a Bike company called Pelation). I learned so much from these interviews, both related and not related to my EPQ. The best part was that Dr Clayson offered me a sixweek internship over the summer up at Magdrive. It will be an incredible opportunity and is a direct result of choosing to do the EPQ. The process was much more than just research; it was an incredibly fulfilling experience. I made new contacts, was offered an internship, and gained a huge talking point for various future interviews. Furthermore, I developed skills in presenting, interviewing, researching, and academic writing. Not to mention getting a genuine qualification in something I’m passionate about! I’ve gained so much from the EPQ, and I really cannot recommend it enough.

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Design & Technology It could be said that the past year has been a tough one for education. This is certainly true for the demands it has placed on both the staff and the boys but as the year has come to a close we have had the time to reflect on the progress we have all made and the many advantages and benefits that are now shining through the darker experience of working in a pandemic.

With the workshops having been unoccupied we have still had to deliver our practical subject and there can be no doubt that, whilst frustrating at the time, teaching mechanics through cereal packet modelling, on reflection has been something we have decided to hold onto. It was amazing to see the resourcefulness of the boys, working on kitchen tables modelling simple mechanisms to generate different types of motion in levers and wheels. Mechanical card modelling is now written into the schemes of work for next year’s groups, who we hope will be in those workshops exploring mechanisms with modelling card, rather than shoeboxes and cereal packets.

With our 3D printers working nonstop to print adapter valves for ventilators at the start of the pandemic it wasn’t long before they were working around the clock to print the CAD files which the boys had generated at home. A workaround an element of our expensive CAD package had led us to explore a version of the software which was made free online for our pupils. So successful was this move that we have taken the step to invest in a much larger and more

versatile 3D printer next year to keep pace with the demand as the boys turned from building fully functional prototypes to scale models or ‘proof-of-concept’ models as the exam boards described them. Many Fifth Form boys chose to work on design challenges, set by their exam board, which challenged them to look at the problem of reducing the quantities of rubbish ending up in our oceans. Percy Tylor’s (5g) floating river refuse trap stood out as did William Frost’s (5b) children’s beach bin.

Whilst CAD and 3D printing have taken a permanent leap forward in the Department, so too have drawing skills as the removal of access to machinery created time to build skills and confidence in drawing. Our Lower Sixth Form are showing some of the most proficient drawing skills we have seen and the progression of their ideas has been more detailed and more artistic as a result. It is also noticeable that they are more proficient in solving each other’s ICT issues. It seems that necessity has proven the mother of confident ICT skills as well!

Percy Tylor (5g)

Charlie Cunninghan (U6f)

William Frost (5b)

We will have to work harder still next year to help the boys regain confidence in the machinery they can use in the Department.

However, with their strong performances in the end of year exams and confident progress on coursework design projects, there is much that they have worked to Zac Gantlett (U6c) achieve. Through the confusion and uncertainly of home schooling, they have also learnt to be a little more Peter chillingworth independent and resilient and that’s Head of Design & Technology no bad thing.

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Art The year started promisingly with a return from a confusingly long time working from home, spliced together with a summer holiday in which the nation forgot how to wear proper clothes (at least from the waist down) and how to exercise properly - walking to and from the fridge all too quickly replaced my daily five mile cross country run across the fields before work.

As we opened the doors to the Art Department for the first time in what seemed forever, with boys filing in at socially distanced 2m intervals, School as we knew it resumed in a strange and new way. However, it was great to be back in the studios instead of looking at icons on a screen or the top of someone’s head from a poorly angled webcam. Physically seeing a class face to face and communicating not via Teams or Zoom was tremendous, although I desperately missed the ‘Mute Participant’ button terribly, and as for the ‘End Meeting’ button… just too tempting. Michaelmas proved a little tricky to teach Art from the front of the classroom whilst maintaining social distancing, but we soon found a solution by embracing the exam board’s switch to digital portfolios, enabling us to view work remotely.

In some ways, this blended platform has gone on to transform

the way we do things in Art and has allowed pupils greater flexibility in terms of where and when they work. Notwithstanding this, our studios remained busy throughout the term as boys invested themselves in the physical work of making a mess, whilst occasionally producing some artwork. It was fantastic to have the Department team back together and experience the hubbub of boys busily working up to the end of the term.

Excitingly, even more painting took place in the Department over the Christmas holiday, but this time it was the Estates Team moving in for the break working from top to bottom, refurbishing the Department. The quantity and quality of their work was amazingly refreshing and well worthy of its own exhibition. Happily, a designated silkscreen print area, and most excitingly a new ceramics studio, were also produced as a result of the redecoration.

Then Lockdown 2.0 landed in Lent, accompanied by a swift return to zooming back and forth to the fridge, lower half clad only in pyjamas (don’t pretend you didn’t) and screens full of faces.

Disappointed to be once again back in this position, I was truly heartened at how well the boys switched back into ‘remote’ mode.

Their levels of attendance, interaction and productivity were truly impressive.

The beginning of Trinity Term felt most peculiar, almost like Michaelmas all over again with a return to School after a prolonged period of time away, with one of the wettest starts to a term, far better suited to rugby than a cricket match. Hand in hand with this rather confusing start to the term, came TAGS (Teacher Assessed Grades) which saw all our GCSE, BTEC and A level pupils busily working on the Personal Portfolios as the final deadline loomed. Some of their fantastic output can be found within these pages and as part of our virtual Commem offering, and I hope it reflects the diligence and endeavour invested over the course of another challenging year.

Hopefully the next academic year will treat us more kindly than the one just past, but having seen some of the work which the current Fourth Form and Lower Sixth are already producing, next year has the potential to be a very good year in Art.

matt Bone Director of art

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• Finn Stewart - U6e

• Zach Buchanan - U6g

• Angus Macdonald - U6g

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History of Art

T

THE sHErBOrnE missaL he fifth most expensive manuscript in world history, the Sherborne Missal (made between 1399 and 1407) is the most lavish and artistically important book of the later Middle Ages in England. Many books of this type get their ‘names’ from later collections they were housed in; but this Missal was not only made in Sherborne, but partly by a monk of the Abbey. It is accordingly rich with local information, down to words written in Dorset dialect. It is difficult to find an equivalent, anywhere in the world at the time, of a work of such artistic complexity and brilliance, luxury, but also a local selfconfidence and grounded pride in the customs of Sherborne and the surrounding area.

I had wanted to do a talk about the Missal last year, but the pandemic intervened. In the meantime, the British Library made the Sherborne Missal digitally available in its 347-page entirety in late August 2020, as part of its pilot project on Universal Viewer. My initial reason to want to do a talk on the Missal was because it was something of an outlier; inaccessible in splendid isolation, but also relatively little-known.

Books seem less important now when their multiplication by print makes them appear cheap as objects, irrespective of their content. But the Sherborne Missal is, of course, a one-off, and the equivalent of 347 exquisite individual paintings. No wonder that Janet Backhouse, whose monograph on the Missal remains the most important source, compares its importance without hyperbole to the Wilton Diptych, easily seen as the most important and precious English panel painting of the Middle Ages. And that is some claim.

The second motivation was to draw the Missal back into the orbit of the School.

Again, its outlier status, exacerbated by its very late entry into the public realm (only entering the British Library from the ducal Northumberland collection in 1998, being elusive until then) can

John siferwas (the artist illuminator)

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To view the digital version of The Sherborne Missal, please visit the British Library: www.bl.uk

The arms of Edward Prince of Wales (the Black Prince) are incidentally the arms of the school (minus the cadency mark).

abbey shield

suggest a somewhat distant relation to the School

guests in spaces that are now the School’s Library

today. But Sherborne School is the natural heir of

and Chapel. The ‘empirical observation’ mentioned

sherborne abbey; the lovingly restored monastic

above is one of the most striking and enthralling

buildings, regular services in the Abbey, and even

aspects of the Missal. The painter artist (‘illuminator’)

legally its charitable mission binds it irrevocably to its

John Siferwas not only painted his Abbot Patron

ecclesiastical predecessor. The Missal is the product

Robert Bruyining almost a hundred times in the book,

of the most sophisticated, learned, and subtle

clothed in various rich and gilded vestments and

innovations in art gleaned from the courts of Europe,

copes, and even surrounded by his hunting hounds;

from the banks of the Moldau to the Seine (and

Siferwas even included two self-portraits, including a

further afield, with competent renditions of a Bactrian

strange, almost romantic depiction of him floating

camel and porcupine), and is therefore an

around on the page margin like an angel. It is

international phenomenon. But it weaves the latest

awkward to try to steal the crown from the Italian

fashions to suit the liturgical needs of Sherborne,

Renaissance and its claim to the rise of the individual

depicting local

artist from medieval obscurity; but the great Michael

saints (such as Saint

Levey himself, in his History of Western Art, included

Juthwara) and,

John Siferwas’ self-portrait

indeed, the founder

as a strikingly early

st aldhelm. The

example of artistic

latter demonstrates

worth and

the sense of

indeed ‘fame’,

continuity that the

far from

community of Benedictine monks felt for the older Anglo-Saxon bishopric of Sherborne, as we should feel a continuity with the Abbey before its dissolution. Its greatest link with the School, for me, is the values it embodies in its pages.

Those of learning, wisdom, faith, precision: but quickened and qualified with the lifegiving curiosity of empirical observation and joy in life, values that surely might apply to young life and scholarship today. It is stirring to know that this book, the jewel in the crown of the Abbey, and without compare in all England, would have been admired and shown to

satan tempting christ; note the church building which bears a striking resemblance to sherborne abbey

s

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s cultivated Mediterranean air. The second and more

being written while Robert Brunyng was Abbot of

famous instance of ‘empirical observation’ in the

Sherborne, and John Wycliffe, whose name is

Missal is, of course, the collection of painted birds on

synonymous with that of the English translation of the

its pages. Their revolutionary naturalism and delicate

Bible, had died as recently as 1384. It seems entirely

beauty of execution has made them mascots of

appropriate that the Missal, the outstanding English

Abbey merchandise and are my immediate go-to

manuscript of the day, should include this

Christmas cards. But dated to the very beginning of

extraordinary feature combining observation of the

the 15th century, they are testament to a profound

real, contemporary world with the everyday language

artistic independence and delight in natural

of local people.”

observation. Nowhere else in Europe at the time do we find birds painted in such careful detail and with

It is this combination that leads experts to believe

accompanying identification, in Middle English.

that the scribe, John Whas (who wrote the letters to

Indeed, they were all feasibly local species and the

John Siferwas’ pictures) was a local monk of

robin is actually described as “a roddoke” – which is

Sherborne, again cementing that close relationship

Dorset dialect for robin. As Janet Backhouse

with place to create a happy and breath taking

summarises: “The late fourteenth century is noted for

combination of the sublime and modest.

the rise of realism in painting and for the

Unsurprisingly, when it came to John Whas crediting

development of portraiture and of the

himself with writing the manuscript, he chose to

depiction of the natural world. It was

inscribe this: John Whas the monk has

also a great age of vernacular

worked to write this book, and rose early,

literature in England. Both Geoffrey

his body becoming much wasted in the

Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales and the

process; a sentiment no doubt shared by

final version of William Langland’s

some boys at Sherborne past (and perhaps

Piers Plowman were actually

present).

My final reason to write this article was as a source of inspiration and strength in the era of COVID-19. Confined to screens for more than a year, our world has become very small, and it has become difficult for eyes not to become glazed over and minds not to become jaded by the endless flickering imagery on a laptop or mobile. But imagine the razor-sharp focus of the painter of this book, sustained over whole years, to produce a work of lasting magnificence. Imagine also the social pain of a guest of the Abbot, forcing himself to admire with equal enthusiasm page 347 as he did page one.

Sherborne Museum now has a fully digitised copy of the Missal; when it opens, the Art History boys will inspect it. I also hope to arrange a special viewing of the original in the British Library itself.

miroslav Pomichal History of art Teacher

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Drama As always it has been an incredibly busy year in the Drama department, and one of the highlights has been the fantastic set of results produced by those boys taking LAMDA examinations.

In the Michaelmas Term, of the 16 boys taking LAMDA, 12 received Distinctions which included three boys who achieved Grade eight Acting Distinctions. Of the 37 boys taking an examination in the Trinity Term, 34 earned Distinctions in their particular discipline, which is the best set of results we have ever had. Four boys in this cohort earned Acting Distinctions at Grade Eight. Huge congratulations to Barbara Darnley and Hilary Earle who have been coaching the boys for these exams in challenging circumstances.

Huge thanks must also go to Jim Donnelly for masterminding the continuation of the live theatre programme via radio since the start of the pandemic. The Theatre Manager spared not one ounce of energy in acquiring the equipment and expertise necessary to record and produce plays, some of which involved cast members in completely different locations across the globe.

The House Plays have as ever also been an area of superlative achievement, with a number of unforgettable performances, including School House’s The Deadly Attachment, Lyon House’s, The War Of The Worlds, Harper House’s The 39 Steps and Abbey House’s Dick Barton and the Tango of Terror. s

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LyOn HOusE’s War OF T HE WOrLDs

}

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aBBEy HOusE’s DicK BarTOn anD THE TangO OF TErrOr

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sEniOr PLay The Scholars’ Play, In Loco Parentis was superbly performed with a number of sensitive and notably William Jonas (L6d) and Thomas Hunter (5d), who reached a level approaching that of professional performers on this piece. But the most remarkable aspect of this entire production was the overall level of skill and the feeling of the entire group working as an ensemble together. I was both moved and impressed by the team work on display and have great hopes for what this group can achieve in the future.

The Department also produced the Senior Play, which was Under Milk Wood, again featuring some excellent performances with boys ranging from the Third Form to the Upper Sixth. Victoria Clayton directed the Junior Play, which was The Turn Of The Screw, which again featured a number of excellent performances from boys in the Lower School, particularly Freddie Fineman (3e) and Siegfred Johnsen (3a). Neither performance suffered hugely from the production medium being radio and in fact, in the case of the Senior Play certainly, it worked in the favour of the production of one of the most celebrated pieces of drama of all time.

2021 was also the year in which three boys commenced Single Honours Drama Degrees at Exeter and Goldsmiths Universities. Former winner of the Bow Award and graduate of Drama A level at Sherborne School, Oliver Palmer (d 18), will also begin training as a professional actor at Mountview Drama School in the September of this year.

ian reade Head of Drama

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technically excellent pieces of acting, most

unDEr miLK WOOD

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JuniOr PLay THE Turn OF THE scrEW

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Model United Nations The model united nations group ran a series of mini conferences in school and online this year. Boys from all year groups participated, developing research, presentation and debating skills. The issues discussed were closely linked to current news stories with topics including media coverage of the Black Lives matter protests, global access to cOviD-19 vaccines, and the issue of electoral transparency. We were joined by a delegation from sherborne girls for the final debate of the year, on the issue of violence against women.

claire greenrod Teacher of English

Photo by Harry Wood (L6f), taken during Trinity Term 2020

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Mind matters

S

herborne’s commitment to mental health has never been stronger. Here’s how the School is opening up the conversation to include every pupil.

It’s okay not to be okay.

This sentiment has become commonplace in recent years, but the COVID-19 pandemic brought it into the sharpest possible focus. For the boys at Sherborne, it was important to understand the potential impact on their mental wellbeing of the disruptions of the last 18 months, as well as opening up a space for them to talk openly about their experiences.

According to the Head of Pupil Wellbeing, Nikki Bowerman, the pandemic has accelerated a process that was already in train at School. “We’ve been committed to helping pupils talk about mental wellbeing for a long time,” she reports.

“My appointment to this role last year was a reflection of that, as are a variety of other initiatives that are creating a positive culture around mental health.”

Nikki’s thoughts are echoed by Marie Hutchings. As Manager of Sherborne’s Health Centre, she sees the significant interaction between pupils’ mental and physical wellbeing.

“The most important thing is that we’re honest about our emotional wellbeing,” Marie says. “It can be tempting, particularly in the environment of a boys’ boarding school, to think that admitting you’re struggling is a sign of weakness.

But it’s far from that, and I’m pleased at the way Sherborne is creating a culture in which boys are willing to admit to finding life hard. They know they have the support of staff and fellow pupils in finding a way through difficult times.”

s

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s Role models

Thinking of others

such a process has been aided

The drive to put mental health

by the boys themselves. many

front and centre in Sherborne’s

role models have stepped up to

communal life has led to the

speak frankly about their own

creation of a Mental Health and

challenges with mental health,

Wellbeing Prefect. This person will

with Old shirburnian Harry

be a figurehead from within the

Boulton (m 20) leading the way

pupil population, helping

during his time at school. Harry

coordinate efforts and build on

spoke with considerable

the School’s ethos of kindness and

candour, he has subsequently

compassion.

launched a variety of initiatives to support mental wellbeing

“It is easy to pay lip service to

among young people, including

mental health,” says Marie. “But

a short film that debuted at the

Sherborne is absolutely

end of 2020.

committed to supporting boys and broadening their

Others have followed in Harry’s

understanding of the issues. We

footsteps, with Sixth Former Tom

know that so-called ‘toxic

O’Sullivan (U6d) leading a series of

masculinity’ imposes certain

Time to Talk sessions throughout

expectations on young men.

the year. In these, he and his

We’re working hard to break down

friends discussed their mental

stereotypes and help the boys

health, the challenges they face as

grow into self-aware, self-

teenage boys, and their strategies

confident young men who are kind

for coping. “The sessions were so

to themselves and other people.”

empowering,” reflects Nikki. “Tom and his friends showed huge maturity, great courage and considerable wisdom. They were a wonderful example to their peers.”

another feature of the programme is broadening the boys’ understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion. That is why nikki has been pleased to see them embracing events such as Black History month, Women’s History month, and Pride month. it is also why she intends to appoint an Equality and Diversity Prefect next year.

“There is a whole matrix of societal issues that overlap with mental health,” Nikki observes. “If boys develop their understanding of the world around them, they are likely to develop a better understanding of themselves. That way, they grow into good citizens, who make a positive contribution wherever they go.”

This is certainly the hope at the heart of a Sherborne education.

And with the School’s emphasis on helping the boys acknowledge their frailties, find ways of coping and supporting others, and develop their understanding of the world around them, it is an ethos that’s stronger now than ever before.

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Time to Talk ... mental health is something that i feel very strongly about, especially when it comes to mens’ mental health. as a result of the patriarchy that we live in, toxic masculinity is engrained into the male mindset from a young age, leading to the social stigma that we should “man up” and refrain from talking about our feelings. The environment of an all-boys boarding school can and does lead to the belief that we shouldn’t show emotion and should comply to gender stereotypes, this is a dangerous atmosphere to allow to perpetuate.

The Time to Talk sessions are a step in the right direction, encouraging boys to talk about how they feel, any worries or anxieties, or simply to have a friendly, informal chat. The aim of the sessions is to give all boys a safe space to come and talk to their peers, to discuss their emotions and experiences as they sail through the turbulent seas of

“If boys develop their understanding of the world around them, they are likely to develop a better understanding of themselves. That way, they grow into good citizens, who make a positive contribution wherever they go.”

adolescence.

Running the sessions myself, I am aware that they have been incredibly helpful for a number of pupils across the year groups, which is very encouraging indeed. As I move forward, I will continue to dismantle the walls that men build between themselves and their emotions, brick by brick, one conversation at a time. I sincerely hope that all boys and staff at Sherborne will do the same.

Contrary to Robert Smith’s lyrics, boys do cry.

Tom O’sullivan (u6d)

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riding the wave of business success Three Lower Sixth Formers launched a surf equipment hire company in November 2020 and it seems very much as if the current’s flowing their way.

Meet rory Parnell (L6g), max coltart (L6g) and James sandars (L6f). They’re the founders of an exciting new surf equipment company based near Polzeath in Cornwall. It’s called Surf2U and, if you’ll forgive the pun, it’s already making waves.

The Surf2U business idea is deceptively simple: customers order the gear they need, including surfboards, bodyboards, stand-up paddleboards, and wetsuits. But rather than hanging around some shabby beach hut to collect it, the company brings it to them – on the beach, at their campsite, or wherever they’re staying.

Sounds like a great model, doesn’t it? And even better, Rory, Max and James are all Sixth Formers at Sherborne, whose entrepreneurial spark was encouraged through the School’s careers enrichment programme.

The ideas business “We signed up for a scheme that challenged us to think of a business idea,” explains Rory.

“We had to work out all the logistics, put costings together, and assess its viability. Max came up with the idea for Surf2U and it looked really credible. With some financial support from our families, we were able to launch back in November 2020, but this summer will be our first full season.”

If you’ve ever stood in a queue on a Cornish beach to hire a soggy, sandy, wetsuit, you’ll know why Surf2U is onto a winner. It takes all the hassle and potential unpleasantness out of equipment hire, enabling holidaymakers to make the most out of their downtime.

“We currently use bikes and trailers to transport equipment to customers,” says James. “Over time, we hope to expand and take on a van, as well as some central

storage facilities to increase our range and geographical reach.

We definitely have a growth plan, but are realistic enough to see how things go.”

ready for take off At the core of their business is an elegant website that James designed from scratch. It was his first ever website build, not that you’d know it from the quality of the layout. He says he enjoyed the experience, and hopes to develop his skills as the business continues.

“We’re also thinking of other activities for which our business model would work,” says Max. “We took our inspiration from the ski industry. As a surfing enthusiast, I had a good sense of the need in this sector, and Surf2U seems to be addressing it effectively.”

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To launch their business last autumn, the boys printed flyers and posters, which they distributed around their operating area. This drummed up sufficient interest for them to test the idea, and this summer has seen things really take off.

“With the tourist trade opening up significantly after the easing of lockdown restrictions, and many people staying in the UK rather than travelling abroad, it’s a great time to be trading,” says Rory.

“We’re looking to capitalise on this opportunity and invest in more stock so we can serve a broader customer base.”

a realistic view For all their ambition, the boys are by no means starry-eyed about the future. “It’s very much a case of wait and see,” says James. “We all hope to go to university, but see Surf2U as a great income source to support our studies.

And if it continues to grow, who knows what we could do next?”

Such openness to fresh opportunities is the beating heart of business success. The boys are quick to acknowledge the influence of School in shaping their attitudes, giving particular thanks to Mr Robinson for his encouragement with their ideas.

“It takes a lot of courage to launch something new,” Max concludes. “But we’ve been trained to believe that anything is possible if we’re prepared to work at it. The existence of Surf2U is a clear example of what that mindset means in practice.”

visit surf2u.org to find out more

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Co-curricular

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CCF

T

he CCF this year has been one to remember despite COVID-19.

There was the introduction of the Sherborne Girls CCF - the number of Senior Non-commissioned Officers (NCOs) hits record numbers as its popularity is going from strength to strength.

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The recent addition of Sherborne Girls has provided the CCF with unity, support, and competitiveness. Through this we have been able to build strong, respectful relationships within the CCF. With over 50 girls joining the CCF this year, and plenty more in years to come, there will be vast competition for places on the Rifles Cadet Cup and Pringle team.

Whilst in lockdown during January, challenges were being sent out every week for all of the cadets to complete. The tasks ranged from camouflaging within your garden to learning hand signals in your kitchen.

In addition, Sixth Formers taught lessons on a variety of topics and the Fourth Form cadets on return to school were more than excited to start using the rifles.

The CCF highlight of the year has to go to the afternoon of the Iron Cadet. This is where all the Sixth Form NCOs compete to find out who is the fittest in the CCF. The events consisted of pull-ups, legs to the bar, a 50-meter jerry can run and a 3km run. The afternoon was fantastic as all the Sixth Formers were cheering each other on and every Sixth Former put in maximum effort. Harry Johnson (U6e) became victorious by a considerable margin, as the RSM – I was very proud to see everyone trying their best.

s

William Loughlin (u6d)

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T H E D U K E O F E D I N BURGH’S AWARD Despite continued restrictions, the year started well with a large number of boys committing to the three levels.

We managed to run the silver and gold expeditions, albeit local to sherborne. For the golds, this turned out to be the wettest expedition i think i’ve seen, making it far from an easy task with plenty of problemsolving opportunities. Later in the year, we managed to run with more normality and, although restrictions prevented

at home. It’s such a pleasure to

activity sections, a five-day

us from arranging residential

read reports written by members

residential experience and a four-

trips, we managed to get all

of a community, where they have

day self-supported expedition in

groups out for their

been helping with shopping and

wild country, often for us, in the

expeditions. We have

food distribution, walking dogs

mountain ranges of North Wales.

postponed the gold qualifying expedition to offer the ‘real deal’ in september.

Participants have been creative with other sections too, as they have considered Volunteering, Physical and Skill activities in

for those unable to leave the home, and helping siblings with

I am delighted to announce we

remote learning. Not only were

have had a total of ten boys

the physical tasks appreciated,

complete the award. This is

but more so the friendly face at

slightly lower than most recent

the end of the path at a time that

years due to the pandemic, but

has been a lonely one for so

very well deserved.

many.

William Loughlin (U6d), Zac

which they can participate in School, as well as at home, during

achieving the certificate

the lockdowns. In the Skills

We have awarded 37 Bronze

section, musicians turned to on-

Awards and 20 Silver Awards over

line lessons; others took on the

the past academic year. These

challenge of learning a new

results are close to the pre-

language using a daily app.

pandemic levels and, with many

Physical activity changed from

others having nearly completed

team sports to fitness that could

their programmes, we hope for

be completed in the daily

another great year ahead. The

exercise slots. It has also been

pinnacle of the award programme

amazing to see how our boys

is to complete the Gold Award.

have been volunteering in their

This involves a minimum of a

local communities in School and

year’s commitment to one of the

Gantlett (U6c), Henry Haywood Smith (U6d), Samuel Nicholls (d 20), Charlie Culver (f 20), Jonathan Post (U6a), Sam Vincent (U6g), Will Usher (U6m), Sam Usher (U6m) and Harry McGinty (U6a) will be invited to collect their certificates from St. James’ Palace.

James Hull Duke of Edinburgh’s award and Educational visits coordinator

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Community spirit sherborne’s outgoing community Outreach and charities coordinator, Harriet Bajorat, explains the direction of this important role in the school.

“The key thing about my job is that I want to respond to pupils. I want the initiatives we develop to be pupil-led, so that boys experience for themselves the profound satisfaction that comes from helping other people.”

So says Harriet Bajorat, who speaks with some authority, as someone whose first experience of volunteering came at the age of just nine.

“My tennis ball landed in the garden of a perfect stranger,” Harriet reports. “Ruby was an 80year-old amputee and she was delighted when my friend and I knocked on her door to ask if we could retrieve our ball from her daffodils. A few glasses of lemonade later and we were firm friends. I carried on visiting Ruby as often as I could, naively thinking that my visits benefitted her alone. As it turns out, I realise now just how much I gained from those encounters.”

Foremost among Harriet’s learning was that doing good for others helps improve mental wellbeing. “There’s a curious satisfaction to be had from putting yourself out for someone else,” she reflects. “It teaches you about compassion, kindness and humility.”

Harriet’s community service snowballed after her experience with Ruby. Over subsequent years, she helped out at a local old people’s home, led guided reading at a special needs school, and ended up as a Special Needs Camp Counsellor in America. Off

the back of this, she took a role as an English Camp Coordinator working in impoverished areas of Thailand and then did voluntary youth work in Australia.

“It’s fair to say I’ve had a good range of volunteer experiences,” she laughs. “But each has been different, and uniquely rewarding.

I really hope that, by creating opportunities for boys at Sherborne to get involved in initiatives that benefit the local community and those in need, they’ll gain the same broadening of their horizons that I experienced.”

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s a pupil-led approach

giving generously

At the heart of this, says Harriet, is her belief that pupils should be given agency in the causes they support. “There are so many opportunities to help other people, through informal and formal networks. Sherborne has always been good at fundraising and working with the local community, so our pupils have a good base on which to build.”

The tea dance is an example of the difference that can

To help guide the process, Harriet has overseen the appointment of an Environment Prefect and a Community Outreach Prefect. These Upper Sixth boys will take a lead in scoping opportunities and encouraging their peers to get involved.

They will be the figureheads for Sherborne’s commitment to community outreach and Harriet is excited to see them make an impact on School life.

be made when pupils engage with a worthy cause.

Sometimes, this results in money being raised, as in the sponsored cycle rides and other similar challenges that have long been a feature of School life. Sometimes, the gift is of time, and Harriet believes this can be just as important.

“During the COVID-19 crisis, we were pleased to

see boys and staff from Sherborne contribute to the local community,” she reports. “Whether it was

delivering prescriptions to people who were shielding, getting involved in local litter pics, or raising money to buy laptops in schools that couldn’t afford them, the Sherborne team did us proud in 2019 and 2020.

Together, we lived our values, making a tangible difference to the world around us.”

This spirit is what Harriet hopes the School will build on

“It’s clear to me that Sherborne pupils care,” she says. “They have been caring for years, and want to make the world a nicer, fairer and safer place. That’s such a good starting point for the work we want to do in the years ahead.”

A centrepiece of such work is the plan to link each House with a local charity or thirdsector organisation, so they can make a practical contribution to its work. An example is the burgeoning relationship between The Green and the Yeatman Hospital, which are located opposite one another. The House is planning to host a special afternoon tea dance to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Friends of the Hospital in June 2022.

“This is set to be a great event,” says Harriet.

“The boys from The Green are excited by the prospect of sharing their beautiful surroundings with people from the local community.”

“I feel I’m pushing at an open door,” she says, summing up her reflections. “The boys and staff at Sherborne are committed to community service, charitable

giving, and outreach. Now, we just need to find the opportunities that will generate the most positive impact.”

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The Great House History Quiz Test your knowledge of the history of sherborne school’s Boarding Houses.

The answers to many of the questions can be found on the Old shirburnian website: oldshirburnian.org.uk/school-boarding-houses

Questions

1. Which House has been in the longest continuous

7. In the garden of which House did boys dig a 150

2. How many of the Houses are named after former

8. Which House is alleged to have an underground

use as a School Boarding House?

Headmasters?

3. Which Houses were formerly inns or hotels?

4. Which House was badly damaged by fire in 1962?

5. Which House became a convent?

6. Which House has a fireplace made from the door lintel of Sherborne workhouse?

foot long trench topped with 1,000 sandbags? tunnel running from its cellars to Sherborne Abbey?

9. Which House was originally named ‘The Retreat’?

10. Which Houses feature in novels?

11. During the First World War, in the garden of

which House were revolving huts built to treat soldiers suffering from gas poisoning?

s

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s 12. Traditionally, the Headmaster was Housemaster

22. An 18th century Shell House can be found in the

13. Which House moved across the road in 1999?

23. In 1930 Headmaster Charles Boughey purchased

of which House?

14. John le Carré’s fictional spymaster George

Smiley was modelled on which Housemaster?

15. Which Houses have dormitories named after Scottish islands and Welsh rivers?

16. Who was Sherborne’s longest-serving

Housemaster, and for how many years did he

garden of which House?

which House for £3,360?

24. Which House was formerly the premises of the Sherborne Coal, Timber, Corn and Cake Co. Ltd?

25. Which Boarding House was built in ‘Sherrin’s Field’?

serve?

26. Prime Minister Ramsay MacDonald dined at

appointed in which year?

27. The nameplate of Southern Railway Schools

17. Sherborne’s first female Housemaster was 18. Which House has a blue plaque?

19. Which Houses produced these House

magazines? The Criterion, The Purple Band, The Evergreen, The Harpoon, Elmdene Chronicle, Landmark, The Lyon’s Den, The Executioner.

20. Which House has ostriches on its roof?

21. Sherborne International opened in 1977. Which House was its first home?

which House?

Class Locomotive 30906 ‘Sherborne’ can be seen in which House?

28. Which Dr Who boarded at Abbeylands?

29. Which Houses have been used as film sets?

30. Match these House dogs with their

Housemasters: Barty, Inca, Bramble, Jango, Bertie.

rachel Hassall school archivist

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answers 1. School House, which has been in continuous use as a Boarding House since 1860.

16. Alexander Trelawny-Ross was Housemaster of Lyon House for 32 years.

2. Four: Harper House (H.D. Harper, Headmaster 18501877), Lyon House (Ralph Lyon, Headmaster 1823-1845) , Wallace House (A.R. Wallace, Headmaster 1934-1950), Westcott House (F.B. Westcott, Headmaster 1892-1908).

17. Alexandra Pearson was appointed Housemaster of The Green in 2020. Victoria Clayton and her husband Steven Clayton were joint Housemasters of Abbeylands from 2008 to 2019.

3. The Digby (formerly the Digby Hotel), Wallace (formerly the Elmdene Hotel), The ‘old’ Green (formerly the Angel Inn).

18. A blue plaque at Westcott House commemorates Alan Turing who boarded there from 1926 to 1931. The plaque was unveiled in 2016 by Dermot Turing.

4. On the night of the 7/8 July 1962, a fire swept through the western end of Abbey House destroying a 50ft stretch of the roof and a dormitory on the second floor. Luckily no one was harmed.

19. The Criterion (School House), The Purple Band (Abbey House), The Evergreen (The Green), The Harpoon (Harper House), Elmdene Chronicle (Elmdene, later Wallace House), Landmark (Abbeylands), The Lyon’s Den (Lyon House), The Executioner (Westcott House).

5. In 1891 an order of nuns from Ghent opened St Antony’s Convent School at Maperty in Westbury, which from 1885 to 1890 had been a school Boarding House run by W.B. Wildman. The School later moved to its current home at Leweston Manor.

6. The fireplace in the common room at Westcott House incorporates the stone door lintel from Sherborne workhouse which was demolished in 1939 and is now the site of Durrant’s close.

7. The trench was dug in 1940 in the garden of Lyon House as part of the House’s war preparations.

8. Legend has it that an underground passage runs from the Abbeyland cellars to Sherborne Abbey, but this has never been substantiated and it most likely refers to the Cheap Street sewer.

9. Until 1910, Harper House in Hound Street was known as The Retreat.

10. School House features in Alec Waugh’s semiautobiographical novel The Loom of Youth (1917); The Digby appears as ‘The Earl of Wessex’ in Thomas Hardy’s The Woodlanders (1887), as ‘The Lovelace Hotel’ in John Cowper Powys’s Wolf Solent (1929), and as ‘The Sawley Arms’ in John le Carré’s A Murder of Quality (1962). The garden of The Green features in Horace Annesley Vachell’s novel The Other Side (1910).

11. Eight revolving huts for ‘open-air treatment’ were erected in the garden of The Green. Sherborne was the first place in Dorset to adopt this treatment which helped soldiers suffering from septic wounds or gas poisoning.

12. Until 1946 School House was traditionally run by the Headmaster.

13. In 1999 the ‘old’ Green was closed, and the House moved across the road into the ‘new’ Green (formerly Greenhill House).

14. The Rev. Vivian Green who was Housemaster of Elmdene (later Wallace House) from 1943 to 1946 and later Fellow and Rector of Lincoln College, Oxford.

15. The dormitories at The Digby are named after Scottish islands and the dormitories at Harper House are named after Welsh rivers.

20. On the gabled dormers of The Digby stand stone ostriches holding horseshoes in their beaks. Ostriches feature on the crest of the Digby family who built The Digby as a hotel in 1869.

21. In 1977 the Greenhill House Study Centre opened for international students in Greenhill House which is now The Green.

22. The Shell House, a summer house with a shell and seaweed ceiling and a conical thatched roof, is in the garden at Harper House.

23. In September 1930 Charles Boughey purchased Elmdene for £3,360 and rented it to the School Governors who opened it as a waiting house for boys. In November 1952 the School Governors purchased Elmdene for £4,250. In 1978 Elmdene was renamed Wallace House.

24. The section of Abbeylands fronting Cheap Street was until 1921 the premises of the Sherborne Coal, Timber, Corn and Cake Co. Ltd. In 1924 the premises were incorporated into Abbeylands and the old timber frontage was exposed and restored.

25. In 1910 the School Governors purchased ‘Sherrin’s Field’ from the Digby Estate. Lyon House was built on the site and opened in 25 January 1912 with sixteen boarders.

26. On 24th February 1932, PM Ramsay MacDonald dined at the Digby Hotel on his way to Newquay.

27. In 1930, Southern Railway named ten new locomotives after public schools, one of which was named Sherborne (30906). In 1963 the nameplate was given to Sherborne School and is now displayed at Wallace House.

28. The third Doctor (1970-1974) was played by Jon Pertwee who boarded at Abbeylands from 1933 to 1934.

29. Three Houses have been used as film sets: The Digby, Wallace House and School House all featured in A Murder of Quality (1991). School House also appeared in The Guinea Pig (1948), Goodbye, Mr Chips (1969) and The Imitation Game (2014).

30. Barty (Kester Jackson, School House), Inca (Hugh Tatham, Abbey House), Bramble (Nicholas Scorer, Harper House), Jango (Andrew Nurton, Wallace House), Bertie (Ben Sunderland, Lyon House).

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BOARDING HOUSES

b f mc Abbey House

Abbeylands

The Digby

The House photographs have been reproduced by kind permission of Gillman & Soame (digitally created in line with social distancing rules)

The Green

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g d a e Harper House

Lyon House

School House

Wallace House s

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ABBEY HOUSE (b)

Housemaster Hugh Tatham has a simple verdict on the boys in his charge over the last year.

“They’ve been absolutely brilliant in hugely trying circumstances,” he says. “They have shown themselves to be really decent and impressive young men.”

Such is the praise Hugh has for the residents of Abbey House, who he says rose to the challenges of COVID-19 with grace and courage.

“It was a far from ordinary year for all of us,” he says. “To see young people meet the difficulties head on and retain a positive attitude has been inspiring. We have witnessed the best of Sherborne over the last 18 months. Even as we look forward to things returning to normal, we celebrate the resilience shown by our boys.”

This resilience was seen in the dayto-day rub of life in School. “It wasn’t easy to return to Sherborne after the lockdown and summer holidays and find so much different. But they got their heads down and adhered to the

restrictions, knowing that it was for the greater good.”

The greater good has long been a part of the philosophy of Abbey House. It is a place where the sense of a collective is tangible, and where the individual achievements of every boy are woven into the fabric of the whole community.

“Each person’s achievement is seen as the House’s achievement,” says Hugh. “We celebrate the breadth of talent in our number and encourage every boy to find their field of excellence.”

Of these, there were plenty in the 2020-21 academic year. As Hugh reports, many boys were awarded House colours, while others received prizes for outstanding academic attainment. Abbey House continued a developing tradition of supplying the captain for the First XV (the fourth in four years), and there were other significant achievements in music, public speaking, and creative pursuits such as photography.

The boys in Abbey House were keen to see the easing of lockdown restrictions in late spring.

They embraced their renewed sense of freedom, coming third in the senior Inter-House football competition and sixth out of 10 in the junior event. They threw themselves into summer sports and relished the opportunity to socialise. They also enjoyed several trips out, bringing a sense of normality and a taste of how things should be upon their return in September.

“Like everyone, we hope for a better year in 2021-22,” says Hugh.

“It’s been gruelling for everyone to cope with the implications of the pandemic. But whatever happens, we know the boys in Abbey House will respond positively, looking out for each other, and ensuring we remain a community of character, care and compassion. That’s the biggest achievement of all.”

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ABBEYLANDS (f)

in times of crisis, it can be helpful to find points of reference, coordinates by which to orient yourself and those around you, to keep you stable amid the flux.

The elements of sherborne life that were able to carry on regardless: music, in-House socials, sporting contests among friends.

“It’s been a rough year for everyone,” says Housemaster Rhidian McGuire. “I think the fact we’ve pulled through is testament to the strength and resolve of the boys, the commitment of the House staff, and a shared willingness to make the best of a difficult situation.”

So it was that the boys in Abbeylands threw themselves into an eclectic mix of activities. The list includes mocktail evenings, a Come Dine With Me contest, volleyball competitions, wine and beer tasting for the older boys, card games, and even a laser tag session around the House.

Of course, learning how to live with others is a central part of the fullboarding experience, and Abbeylands has long been noted for the quality of relationships among residents. Rhidian says that this has been a strong feature of House life in the past year, though he laments the lack of opportunity to integrate year groups more fully.

“It was a great joy when things began to ease in May and June, and the boys embraced the chance to strengthen their friendships, with the Third Formers in particular gaining a better sense of their place within the wider House community.

The vision for next year, is to build on the integration that started happening towards the end of Trinity,” he continues.

There was a taste of normality as the days lengthened and the end of term drew near. Abbeylands residents enjoyed trips that included go-karting, paintballing, a visit to Mill on the Brue outdoor activity centre, and the resumption of some sporting fixtures. Rhidian says it was a great way for them to let off steam, and he saw real connections being made across the whole community.

“Of course, some things were able to carry on more or less as normal throughout the crisis,” he says.

“Music was a particular source of strength for many of our boys, and we continued to do well academically. Several Abbeylands boys picked up academic awards or prizes, and they continued to excel in areas such as CCF. There is much to celebrate at the end of this year, and much to look forward to in the coming year.”

An immediate highlight is set to be the House play, which is cast and ready to move into production in Michaelmas. Like everyone, he and his fellow Abbeylands dwellers can hardly wait.

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“We certainly tried to keep busy,” says Rhidian, “and I think that made a big difference to

everyone’s ability to cope. The challenge was not just concern over COVID-19, but dealing with the usual oscillations in people’s moods, without being able to get out of the House as freely as usual.”

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THE DIGBY (m )

When the history of the cOviD19 pandemic is written, a central theme will be the way in which various communities brought life and hope in the midst of the darkness. according to Housemaster rob Le Poidevin, The Digby was one such community.

“A key feature of our last 18 months has been the strong sense of togetherness in the House,” he reports. “Even when the boys were separated by lockdowns, or living in year-group bubbles in-House, there was a sense of us being a strong unit. That, of course, is central to the Sherborne ethos. It is predicated upon boys remembering their place in the wider scheme of House, School, town, country, and world. Even so, under the testing conditions of COVID-19, Rob says it has been gratifying to see The Digby more than live up to that expectation.

“Our spirit of community was seen in all sorts of ways,” he reflects.

“When the boys were able to be in School, we had daily assemblies outside, so that everyone could see the faces of boys in other year

groups. It sounds like a small thing, but it helped overcome the sense of our worlds closing in as a result of the COVID-19 restrictions. It reminded us of the bigger picture.”

Talking of the bigger picture, Rob was encouraged by the care shown for the wider community by the residents of his House. “Like everyone at Sherborne, we are committed to helping others, and fundraising has always been an important part of our culture,” he says. “But it was especially pleasing to see boys thinking of others while they confronted their own challenges. It showed the spirit of generosity and compassion that characterises our House culture.”

For example, Angus Geddes (4m) undertook a sponsored bike ride to raise money for laptops in schools without the means of buying them for pupils. “This showed a real insight into the challenges facing other people during the crisis,” reflects Rob. “Angus’s effort was mature, heartfelt and pragmatic.

We were all impressed by his commitment.” It was a similar story for Archie Eadie (4m) who completed a 24-hour board games challenge. This raised money for the Make A Wish Foundation, our

House charity. “I found it uplifting to see the boys show concern for other people, both near and far,” says Rob. “During some hard times for the whole country, they stepped up and showed the best of themselves.”

Of course, life became brighter as the academic year neared its close and lockdown restrictions began to ease. Rob says the boys threw themselves into the activities laid on for them, relishing the chance to live more fully again. “We’ve done paintballing trips, a day at a water park and some long-overdue socials with Sherborne Girls,” he reports. “We also enjoyed the Leavers’ Supper, Inter-House football and water polo. It was great to see the boys taking pride in The Digby and rediscovering some of the old magic.”

That is the essence of House life at Sherborne: taking pride in belonging. And with a community like The Digby around them, it is no wonder these boys were able to keep their spirits up through such a challenging period.

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THE GREEN (c)

Last year, alex Pearson took on the role of Housemaster of The green with high hopes to build on its positive culture. Her vision was for a House of compassion, honesty and, where boys had a keen awareness of the wider world.

Few could have predicted the challenges that would arise while Alex settled into her new post. But, although they changed much of her planning, she says they created an opportunity for growth in all the House’s residents.

“I believe we’ve grown as a community. We’ve all learned that it’s okay to show vulnerability, that you don’t have to have all the answers.”

This is a powerful message, according with Alex’s commitment to mental wellbeing. She recognises that COVID-19 has helped boys become more resilient, as well as giving them a deeper appreciation of the benefits they usually enjoy by virtue of their full-boarding education.

“There is plenty that we’ve all missed during the last year,” she reflects. “For me, the most significant loss has been inter-year mingling. Thanks to the bubble system, which was essential to maintain safety, the boys have been in their own year groups. Naturally, as lockdown restrictions eased, the programme of activities in The Green expanded.

While the country opened up in late May and June, boys enjoyed paintballing, an escape room and a trip to a water park. As Alex remarks: “It’s fair to say they embraced their newfound freedom with a good degree of relish. We managed to retain a lot of our House traditions, for example, the boys organised a poignant Remembrance service in the House garden, and we had a wonderful outdoor Carol Service in which we celebrated the season together.

We had some truly memorable moments throughout the year.”

What is more, the boys found a way to build some inter-year interaction into their routines, even while they were back at home during the lockdown. “The Upper Sixth did a special Zoom session with the Fifth Form to talk them through A level options,” says Alex, “and the Fifth Form did something similar for the Third Form about GCSEs. It was nice to see the boys pull together and support each other – that’s very much a part of our ethos in The Green.”

It is an ethos that Alex believes will keep forming “We’ve learned a lot about ourselves and each other over the last year. Now, we want to build on that,” she concludes.

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HARPER HOUSE (d)

‘’it has certainly been an interesting introduction to life as Housemaster of Harper, but i have loved it.”

That is the view of Nick Scorer, who took over the reins of Harper in September 2020. He knew at the time that the coming academic year would pose challenges, and says he has been proud of the way his House has risen to them.

“I inherited a House that was in really good shape,” Nick says.

“There was so much to admire about it, and that gives me a really good place from which to keep building. Nick says he has been impressed by the ways the boys have managed to foster a sense of community, despite restrictions caused by COVID-19.

“It is to the outgoing Upper Sixth’s enormous credit that they did get to know the new Third Formers, and helped them feel as if they truly belong in Harper,” he observes. “They put a huge amount of time, effort and energy into looking out for their younger housemates. This year group has

been a great example and we shall miss them.”

There is always a transition of responsibilities in a House towards the end of the year, and Nick was pleased to see the Lower Sixth step up to their new roles.

Eased restrictions facilitated some trips away from School. “It is odd to think that the Third Form hadn’t travelled on a Sherborne minibus until mid-May,” Nick reflects. “All the boys relished opportunities to get out when the time came, including activities like paintballing, go-karting and greater involvement in sport. It was as if the House could finally come alive, just as the sun started to shine.”

That said, Harper House was a hive of activity even during the darker COVID-19 months. In-House activities included pizza making, a Christmas dinner in the garden on the last night of Michaelmas that included a memorable rendition of The 12 Days of Christmas, and plenty of football matches in the garden.

“Our Heads of House were fantastic throughout the year,” says Nick, “as were the staff team. We managed to build on the brilliant sense of community that is so much a feature of Harper House.

We enjoyed great socials, stimulating sporting contests and plenty of barbecues, it certainly had plenty of highlights.”

Harper continued its tradition of creative and intellectual endeavour.

Some of the boys created a podcast about black music, while others engaged with the School’s approach to issues of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.

“Many of our activities this year have had a School-wide impact,” says Nick. “That is doubly impressive given the restrictions under which we’ve all operated. It shows the influence of Harper on Sherborne as a whole, giving our boys a tangible sense of pride in their House.”

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LYO N HOUSE (g)

One of the features of life in sherborne is the idyllic location of this gentle market town, surrounded by rolling Dorset countryside but with a vibrant cultural and intellectual life.

Housemaster Ben sunderland says the residents of Lyon House have developed a deeper appreciation of this county as a result of the last year’s restrictions.

“We were reminded that we have riches right on our doorstep,” says Ben, who is Sherborne’s Senior Housemaster in addition to his oversight of Lyon. “We took the Third Form to Sherborne Castle for a stomp around and found that it’s a great place to spend time.

Normally, we may miss out on what’s right in front of us because of the rush to travel further afield.”

If the pandemic prompted closer attention to the School’s immediate vicinity, it also provided an

opportunity for boys to step up and invest in their relationships with each other. There is tangible pride among us all at the positive atmosphere in Lyon over the last 12 months.” Ben is quick to commend his colleagues for their role in this process. “Everyone has worked really hard to look after the boys, support them, and help them through an undoubtedly challenging time,” he says. “The Upper Sixth have had it especially tough: their Lower Sixth year was disrupted by the first lockdown, and this year has also been far from ordinary. They’ve shown huge strength of character to pull through – something we were pleased to honour at their Leavers’ Dinner towards the end of Trinity.”

If the leavers showed their younger housemates how to step up to the challenge of COVID-19, the rising Lower Sixth displayed similar resolve. “It was late in the School year that the Sixth Form boys were

able to move around the House freely, in order to oversee the younger boys’ bedtime,” explains Ben. “It felt like a revelation to everyone when they did: a reminder of the strength of our boarding set-up, and a taster of what’s to come next year.”

Further such tasters came in the form of the trips out that were possible once lockdown restrictions eased. The boys went to a local water park, enjoyed their first whole-House socials, and caught up with pupils from Sherborne Girls. Despite making full use of Lyon’s generous outside space during the lockdown, with volleyball proving the ideal sport for social distancing, Ben says it was a real liberation once the restrictions were lifted. “The culture of a school like Sherborne is to get boys out and active every day. It was a real joy to give them back some freedom and encourage them to live life to the full again.”

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SCHOOL HOUSE (a)

“i have seen adolescence at its rawest and young camaraderie at its strongest,” says Kester Jackson, outgoing Housemaster of school House. “This job has been one of the most demanding of my career, and by far the most rewarding.”

With his tenure in School House ending a year later than planned, and after all the disruption of COVID-19, Kester could be forgiven for feeling relief. But, far from it, he believes he has seen some of the best aspects of Sherborne life in the past 18 months, with boys showing resilience, grit and graciousness.

“The boys have come together to support each other, showing care and respect in every aspect of their lives,” he reflects. “It’s been an inspiration to me and the whole House team. As I contemplate the end of my time as a Housemaster, it’s a reminder of everything that I love about the role.” Kester will be much missed by the community he and his wife Clare have given so much to over the past 11 years. One of the most remarkable aspects of their legacy is the feature of the House he most highly prizes: the

kindness that boys show to each other.

“When boys first arrive in School House, I give them a pep talk,” he remembers. “The theme is simple: it’s about remembering that our purpose is to help each other be happy. This means different things for different people. But sharing a commitment to its pursuit means we do all we can to help the people we live alongside, to support them, and to celebrate their talents.” Happy boys, as Kester notes, are often boys who achieve great things.

“We have a history of high achievers in School House, with a great breadth of skill in our number,” says Kester. “This year was no exception, and I was so pleased to see every member of our community giving their all, while helping their Housemates fulfil their potential, too.” Foremost among those contributing to this ethos has been the Upper Sixth, who Kester says played an important role in establishing the School House spirit throughout their time at Sherborne.

“They’re an impressive group of people,” he remarks. “COVID-19 tested them in all sorts of ways. But

they rose to the challenges and led by example. They are a credit to their House and to the School.”

As well as the outstanding contribution made by the boys themselves, Kester is quick to commend his colleagues. He says the whole team has made his time as Housemaster considerably easier, and draws particular attention to the members of the domestic and tutor teams who have remained loyal to the House and its boys for so many years, and to Mrs Tricia Cant, who is retiring after 26 years as Housekeeper/Matron. “She is a living legend,” he says. “She’s made an invaluable impression on more than 400 boys during her time at Sherborne.”

Perhaps no person than Tricia better embodies the commitment and affection that residents old and new feel towards School House. “I am reminded always of our motto,” concludes Kester. “School House is what you are. It is certainly what the boys have been over the past 11 years and thank you to everyone who has been a part of this wonderful place during this time.”

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WALLACE HOUSE (e)

ask andy nurton, Housemaster of Wallace, what has been the high point of the last academic year, and you’ll get a quick answer. it’s not the House’s success in various sporting endeavours; not even finally achieving his ambition of having a Wallace boy captain the First xi in football. rather, it is the resilience shown by the boys. “The boys have been outstanding over the past year,” says andy. “They responded so positively and made the best of all the opportunities that were available. i’ve been really proud of them throughout.”

“My colleagues in the House team did an impressive job of laying on Covid-compliant activities that the boys could enjoy,” he says. “More importantly, they worked hard to check on the boys’ wellbeing, creating a positive atmosphere that made the whole period much easier for everyone.” In addition, Andy says the parent community has done a fantastic job of supporting boys and backing up the School in its approach to COVID-19.

“Our usual routines were disrupted, and boys needed encouragement to adhere to the regulations. Parents

played a crucial role in reinforcing our messages, and especially in keeping the boys engaged during the second lockdown after Christmas. Without their commitment to Wallace and Sherborne, we’d have found things a lot more challenging.”

But Andy firmly believes the real heroes were the boys themselves.

He says they responded with great spirit to challenges such as the lack of inter-year mingling and restrictions on their coming and going from the House. “Our Upper Sixth set a fine example,” he remarks. “They really stepped up and delivered. For the Prefects and Heads of House, it was by no means a conventional year. But they made the best of it and I’ll be forever grateful for that.” Wallace House participated fully in School activities.

For example, the House had regular representation at the Friday lunchtime concerts, broadcast on YouTube for the wider community.

Boys participated in events such as the Super Saturday Olympics, and secured victory in the House Fives competition. Wallace House residents also featured prominently in the School production of Under

Milk Wood, and the Junior production of The Turn of the Screw.

“I’m really proud of these achievements,” says Andy. “They reflect the effort that our boys have put into the last year. With a significant number of academic merits among our community and some great participation in committees such as the Food Committee, Teaching and Learning Committee, and Joint Pupil Pastoral Forum, Wallace was very much at the heart of School life in 2020-21.”

With so much going on, it was important for the boys to have plenty of opportunity to unwind.

Andy and his team laid on a variety of in-House activities, including murder mystery evenings, House barbecues and sports competitions.

Then, once restrictions eased, they were able to enjoy socials with other Houses and with Sherborne Girls, as well as some trips away from School.

“It’s been a memorable year in all sorts of ways,” reflects Andy.

“Despite the challenges, it’s reminded me of the strength of community and determination that are at the very heart of Wallace House.”

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Back to school rOBErT Harris TAKES OVER AS HOUSEMASTER OF SCHOOL HOUSE IN SEPTEMBER. HE SHARES HIS THOUGHTS ON WHAT MAKES FOR A GREAT BOARDING EXPERIENCE. After years of service as a Senior Tutor in Lyon, Abbeylands, The Green and Wallace House, Robert Harris has a good sense of what makes a Boarding House at Sherborne tick. Which is good news, because he takes over the reins of School House in September, giving him a chance to cast a vision for the whole community in his care.

“I know School House well, having been Senior Tutor here,” he says. “It is already an excellent environment for boys to grow up in, so I’m working from a very strong foundation.”

Evolution not revolution That is thanks to the diligence and commitment of outgoing Housemaster Kester Jackson, who has led School House since 2010 and helped build a strong sense of community. “Kester’s care of School House over the years has been remarkable,” says Robert. “There is no need for a revolution here.

We’ll just continue to evolve, building on our strengths and finding new ways to grow.”

A significant factor facing Robert in his new role is the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. For returning pupils, that means readjusting to interyear mingling and an absence of restrictions.

“Last year’s Third Formers had a far from usual introduction to life at Sherborne,” explains Robert.

“There will clearly be some work needed to help them grow accustomed to School life amid more normal times.”

in the mix The key benefit of the longed-for return to normality is the opportunity for School House to function as a whole community again.

Last year’s bubbling system was necessary to keep pupils as safe as possible, but Robert is looking forward to getting boys of all ages together to form bonds and learn from each other.

“It’s always been a key part of boarding life that older boys set an example for younger boys, helping both parties develop,” says Robert. “That’s not been possible to achieve in quite the same way during COVID-19, but we hope very much to return to our tried-and-tested ways of doing things in the new academic year.”

As much as he is excited to see relationships grow among the boys in his charge, Robert is also

looking forward to getting to know them himself. “I’ve had a longheld aspiration to be a Housemaster,” he says.

“I’m excited by the prospect of forming deep connections with the residents of School House and having a close hand in their experience at Sherborne.

That feels like a great privilege.”

Robert has moved into the Housemaster’s accommodation with his wife Briony, who is Head of Learning Support at Sherborne Prep, and three sons. He says the whole family, including their lively Labradoodle, Marvel, is looking forward to becoming a part of School House life, contributing to the warm and friendly ethos that has always been at its heart.

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“When you feel bogged down by administrative responsibilities, take a walk around the House and reconnect with the boys. Then you’ll be reminded of what the job is all about.”

“i think the Housemaster’s job is to make pupils’ time at school as happy, productive and fulfilling as possible,” he says. “It is a great privilege to take on such a role and I’m lucky to have a great team of House staff who I know will support me throughout.”

a new challenge It sounds like a very strong basis for the next phase in Robert’s 18-year career at Sherborne – in many ways the culmination of all that he’s worked for so far. “I’ve taught Business and Economics since switching from my previous career as an insurance broker and completing an MBA,” he says. “I led the Business and Economics Department until January 2021 and have been involved in a variety of co-curricular activities, including football and rugby. The Housemaster role is a fresh challenge, but I’m ready to take it on and honoured to have been chosen for the job in School House, with all its history and heritage.” And what’s the best advice Robert’s been given by other Housemasters within the Sherborne firmament? “Oh, that’s easy,” he replies. “When you feel bogged down by administrative responsibilities, take a walk around the House and reconnect with the boys. Then you’ll be reminded of what the job is all about.”

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A New Partnership

T

his year’s merger with Sherborne Prep delivers a range of benefits to both schools, says Chairman of Governors Lieutenant General David Leakey (b 70), CMG, CVO, CBE, MA

The link between Sherborne and Sherborne Prep is long-established, but it was made even stronger by the merger of the Schools in April 2021. This signalled a new era in our relationship, giving us the opportunity to benefit from one another’s facilities, while retaining distinct identities and staff teams.

“The merger reflects a wider trend in the independent schools sector,” says Lieutenant General David Leakey, Sherborne’s Chairman of Governors. “It has been exacerbated by the COVID19 crisis, but in our case the merger was already in motion before the pandemic hit.”

This speaks of the cooperation between Sherborne and Sherborne Prep over many years – making a merger a sensible move to benefit pupils of all ages.

Allied to the close relationship both schools have with Sherborne Girls, the result is a unique offer in this part of the country, with three leading independent boarding schools located in one town.

Economies of scale “The clearest benefit of the merger is the opportunity to take advantage of economies of scale and reduce our cost base,” David explains. “Under the Sherborne Schools Group, encompassing Sherborne School, Sherborne Prep and Sherborne International, we have considerable buying power. As a result, we can drive quality up and costs down, ensuring we deliver the best-value education to pupils without compromising on our high standards.”

David says that the merger will help Sherborne manage fees while appealing to parents by offering

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more than is available in the state sector. “This challenge becomes more pertinent in light of the economic uncertainty post-COVID-19,” he explains.

“School fees can take up a higher proportion of a household’s disposable income when times are tough, so we need to deliver the very best that we can for parents and their children.”

An example of how the merger will enhance the pupil experience comes with the new Sports Centre, construction of which is now underway. “This is a £13m facility at the heart of our School community,” says David. “Thanks to the merger, pupils at Sherborne Prep will have a chance to use cuttingedge equipment in a professional-standard environment. Our hope is that this will inspire them to new heights of sporting achievement in the years ahead.”

The same could be said of Sherborne’s Music School, which is widely recognised as one of the finest in the country. “Under our new way of working, young children from the Prep School are able to come and use this space, as part of a joined-up Sherborne experience,” he says.

a new beginning Unlike some of the school mergers that have happened in the last 18 months, David notes that the Sherborne and Sherborne Prep merger was not driven by financial need: “Sherborne Prep was in a healthy position financially, with a budget surplus every year. This merger was not about reducing cost so much as building on our shared purpose and enhancing the education available in Sherborne.”

With that in mind, the Schools retain their own

leadership and staff teams, with Natalie Bone taking over the Headship of Sherborne Prep from Nick Folland in September 2021. “Natalie will work closely with Dr Dominic Luckett, who is Chief Executive of the Sherborne Schools Group,” says David. “But she will have autonomy to run the Prep School on a dayto-day basis. We want to keep some elements of our operations separate, not least so that we maintain a level playing field with Sherborne’s other feeder schools.”

David is quick to acknowledge that a move from Sherborne Prep to Sherborne isn’t right for every pupil. He says the admissions and transition processes will stay separate in both schools: “If a move within Sherborne is appropriate, that’s great.

But if a Prep School pupil is better served by moving elsewhere, we’ll support them in that process and ensure they find the right school for them. Likewise, Sherborne will continue to recruit from a wide range of prep schools.”

The ties that bind A further factor in the merger is the historic bonds between the Schools. David observes that Sherborne Prep was originally a part of Sherborne School until it de-merged in 1886 and moved to its current premises.

“Even when we were separate entities, there was a strong sense of shared identity and common purpose,” he reflects. “The merger builds on that, establishing the conditions in which pupils of all ages can thrive in the context of a Sherborne education. I find that a very exciting prospect indeed.”

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‘22 not out’ THE sHErBOrnE scHOOL FOunDaTiOn anD THE sPOrT PrOJEcT The sherborne Foundation celebrated its 22nd anniversary this year. With the ongoing sports centre project, it’s more active than ever.

Headmaster and CEO, Dr Dominic Luckett comments: “It is so exciting to see the work to redevelop our Sports Centre get fully underway. The first phase of the project involves the creation of a second, much larger sports hall and we are very much looking forward to seeing this take shape over the coming months. When completed, the redevelopment will provide both our athletes and recreational users from across the Sherborne community with an absolutely top-notch facility reflecting our high ambitions for Sherborne sport. As Adrian Ballard, Head of the Sherborne Foundation, explains below, a significant portion of the project cost is being met by donations and I am extremely grateful to all those who are so generously supporting our fundraising efforts. My personal thanks go to them all.”

Over the last two decades, those associated with Sherborne have become accustomed to ambitious projects that are a feature of School life. Among these is the Music School, which opened in 2010 and was supported by the Sherborne School Foundation after a significant fundraising campaign.

The Foundation is now working on another major project, in the form of a new Sports Centre that will be located right at the heart of the School. Among other facilities, the new Centre will offer two sports halls and will incorporate an indoor hockey pitch, indoor five-a-side football pitches, squash courts, badminton courts, a climbing and bouldering area, a golf simulator and a state-ofthe-art fitness suite. Its overall cost is around £13 million, of which the Sherborne Foundation has pledged to provide £4 million.

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111 Supporting an all round exceptional education

To support the sherborne Foundation, please contact adrian Ballard: adrian.ballard@sherborne.org | 01935 810556 | 07766 521304

an ambitious sporting target “We’re well on target to make our contribution,” explains Adrian Ballard, Head of the Sherborne Foundation. “We’ve raised or have pledged just over £3.2 million so far and have already released £2 million of that to the School. We’re on the home straight for the final tranche, with a variety of initiatives in hand to help us get over the line.”

will be attended by celebrity athletes and will be launched in Autumn 2021. “We’re really looking forward to this event, which will be a celebration of Sherborne’s sporting heritage,” says Adrian. “We hope our celebrity guests will be an added attraction, encouraging people to book tickets and contribute to our cause.”

Adrian is no stranger to these campaigns, having led the Foundation since 2004. He was in post for the Music School project and has been involved in several other initiatives that were celebrated when the Foundation turned 20 in 2019.

sporting legends

“Over the years, the Sherborne Foundation has made an important contribution to the success of our School,” Adrian says. “We’ve raised money to improve academic facilities across disciplines, provide equipment for music and sport, and for the all-important bursaries that widen access to the unique all-round excellent education Sherborne provides.”

To continue making such a contribution, the Foundation launched the Sherborne 360 initiative in 2019. This has been a key driver in the fundraising effort for the Sports Centre, inspiring donors to give generously in support of the School.

all systems go “With building now underway for the Sports Centre, the clock is ticking to reach our fundraising target,” Adrian says. “The project completes in summer 2023, and we know it will be a jewel in the School’s crown.

It will be a real achievement for the Foundation to honour our commitment and raise that final million.”

To help with this, Adrian and his team have launched a variety of initiatives. One of these is a Sports Fundraising Dinner, scheduled for 23 June 2022. It

Donors can support the campaign in the short term, too. For example, the “Sherborne Legends” initiative gives an opportunity to pledge support for a room in the Sports Centre to be named after one of the many people who have contributed to Sherborne’s sporting legacy over the last 40 years. Donors cast a vote for one of over 15 “legends” on a shortlist, enshrining their presence in a facility that will benefit many future generations.

“We know that many Old Shirburnians are very proud of their sporting heritage and the School in general,” Adrian says. “They are keen to honour the influence of the people who coached or taught them. The Sherborne Legends campaign gives them a chance to honour the staff who most inspired them, at the same time as supporting the School.” Another opportunity is the “22 Club”. Membership is predicated upon a monthly contribution of £22.22 over three years – a reflection of the 22-year history of the Sherborne Foundation and the many references to 22 in the sporting world.

“There are many ways in which supporters of the Sherborne Foundation help the School to flourish, as the last 22 years have shown,” reflects Adrian. “For the next year, our focus is on reaching our goal for the Sports Centre. We are confident that, come summer 2023, we’ll have helped fund a facility of which our whole community can be proud.”

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2 Sports Halls one 867 sqm and one 585 sqm; indoor cricket nets; 1 indoor hockey pitch; 2 five-a-side pitches; 2 basketball courts; 8 badminton courts; 4 squash courts; 1 climbing bouldering area; 1 fitness suite and a sports performance area; 2 studios and new changing rooms.

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113 Supporting an all round exceptional education

Sport

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David Guy DirEcTOr OF sPOrT

This last year has certainly witnessed huge

challenges, in terms of being able to provide a traditional programme of fixtures, and for a number of sports it was just not possible to

provide the external competition so many boys crave. For boys in their final year it was hugely

disappointing to miss out after years of looking forward to their time in the sun and for those

hoping to wear a 1st XV jersey or the 1st XI kit has been clear for all to see. The Trinity Term

sports were able to take on opposition around the South West and after months of lockdown and restrictions it was a wonderful sight to see boys playing on Carey’s and The Upper once again.

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However, it has not been all doom and gloom. Throughout the months of social distancing and hygiene protocols, when the boys were at school, sport continued at Sherborne. Without the pressure of preparing for weekend fixtures, the focus turned to development and internal competition. Staff were inventive in providing variety by challenging boys in different ways with a range of tasks and targets which certainly avoided boredom setting in. The boys themselves bought into the

through Teams for some weekly

we look forward to Michaelmas.

programme and across the year

social interaction as well as a

Fixtures, hospitality and

groups there was a real sense of

physical work out. In addition, our

spectators are part and parcel of

purpose in their commitment to

team of Directors of Coaching

our sporting programme and

their sport.

offered up some sports specific

there is hope that we will start the

weekly practical activities and

new academic year with renewed

In lockdown, when boys found

each Saturday the boys and their

enthusiasm and positivity. There

themselves at home and dealing

families were encouraged to take

will be lessons to learn for the

with a range of complications, we

on such challenges as the

past few months but rather than

were determined to support and

Sherborne Scavenger Hunt and

return to what was deemed

encourage remotely. Sports

Minute Max.

normal, we intend to embrace the

Centre staff produced a range of

opportunity to look forward to the

HiiT sessions, both live and pre-

Returning to ‘normality’ is

next chapter of sport at

recorded, which boys joined

certainly in the minds of us all as

Sherborne.

The covid pandemic meant competitive fixtures didn’t get underway until Trinity, but that didn’t stop sherborne’s boys grasping the opportunity to test their mettle. Here’s a summary of the school’s performances in a year that proved the value of sport as a motivating force for boys of every age.

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rugby

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although this season will go down as the cOviD-19 season where no external rugby fixtures took place throughout the year, the pupils of sherborne school were pleased to be back playing rugby with their peer group and have the opportunity to bond.

The RFU gave a new, exciting version of the game, based around touch rugby, called “Ready for Rugby”. It was this format that provided the internal competition throughout the Michaelmas Term. The ‘Sherborne Super Rugby’ tournament was created and boys were formed in to their respective Super Rugby teams of Crusaders, Blues, Highlanders and Chiefs. They competed throughout the term in their own teams for the Sherborne Super Rugby Cup (which was actually t-shirts – much preferred by the boys!).

This provided a very exciting brand of rugby, where boys were encouraged to work on their evasion, fitness, decision making, passing and kicking skills – all of

a regular basis. Charlie McCaig

fixture programme, it will be

which would benefit them when

(U6b) was rewarded at the end of

remembered as a season that

contact rugby returned. Our

the season with an academy

allowed for friendships to be

Academy Rugby players were

contract with Exeter Chiefs, where

strengthened, skills to be

fortunate enough to continue with

he will be studying at the

improved and fun to be had –

their external training with Bath

University of Exeter, whilst training

hopefully leading to more boys

Rugby and Exeter Chiefs.

with Exeter Chiefs.

continuing with their rugby post Sherborne School.

Sherborne had over twenty players, across three age groups,

Although the season will not be

attend academy rugby training on

remembered for its external rugby

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cricket First xi

sherborne’s First xi recorded two victories out of nine matches. This included the 100 victory v clayesmore and three-wicket win over millfield in the inaugural 100 match. The boys’ bowling performance sealed their victory in a match that ebbed and flowed from the start. it helped build their confidence, but the topsy turvy character of the season, with lots of last-minute cancellations, meant they struggled to establish a rhythm. Even so, they played some enjoyable matches, including the loss against a side from Free Foresters cricket club that included nine Old shirburnians.

Perhaps the most memorable of all, though, was a match in which no cricket was played at all. This was a loss to Bryanston in the first bowl-out either team had played. after an afternoon of rain, five bowlers from each team were given two deliveries each at the unprotected stumps. Just like a penalty shoot-out in football, the team with the most hits was declared winner – and Bryanston squeaked through with a 4-3 win. This narrow defeat is a fitting microcosm of sherborne’s performance in the rest of the season, with two tight losses against Blundell’s and marylebone cricket club rounding things off.

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second xi

Played four, lost four makes for uncomfortable reading for sherborne’s second-team cricketers, but closer scrutiny of the match reports reveals a more nuanced picture. The opening match against marlborough college resulted in a 44-run defeat, but the team showed great resilience with the bat and a determination in the field against a powerful side with several strong all-rounders. it was a similar story in the narrow 18-run loss in a 20-over match against millfield, from which the boys could have emerged victorious with a little more strength when batting.

There followed a lengthy spell of cancellations, disrupting the boys’ rhythm, so it was perhaps unsurprising that their next match resulted in a 60-run loss to clifton college. The match report described it as “another chastening day with the bat” for sherborne’s boys, and that sums up the frustrations of the performance. They came back for a six-wicket defeat to Blundell’s, giving plenty of food for thought at the end of a difficult season.

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s Third xi

Fifth xi

colts xi

The Thirds had a very disrupted

In their only match of the season,

A convincing team with the bat,

playing schedule that resulted in

Sherborne’s Fifth XI struggled to

the U16A notched up a strong

just three matches throughout the

make an impression on a strong

victory against Marlborough

season. The first of these was

Marlborough College team,

College to reach the South West

rained off, resulting in the much-

eventually losing by 85 runs. The

semi-final of the National Cup.

feared bowl-out and a loss at the

score line flatters the victors,

The Colts XI also beat Torquay

hands of Millfield. The next two

however, and had it not been a

Boys’ Grammar School in the SW

were against Clifton College (a

mid-innings collapse, the match

regional semi to take them into

31-run loss) and King’s School,

would have been much closer.

the top eight in the country. They

Bruton (a five-wicket defeat),

Most important of all, the

will face Clifton College in the SW

deepening the boys’ frustration at

Marlborough coach made a point

Final on Tuesday 19 April 2022.

their stop-start season. Even so,

of commending the Sherborne

The season was then disrupted by

the matches at least gave them a

players’ manners and

COVID-19, meaning the boys

taste of competitive fixtures in a

sportsmanship – a fitting tribute

never got a chance to deliver on

difficult year.

to a team that has always

their early potential. A frustrating

conducted itself with grace on the

summer, therefore, but one that

pitch.

bodes well for next season.

with back-to-back losses. The first

u17 xi

Junior colts a xi

was an agonising one-run defeat

The Under-17 team convened for

The only victory chalked up for

at home to Marlborough College,

two matches, with the first being a

the Junior Colts A XI is a bowl-out

in a game featuring strong batting

seven-wicket defeat to

win against Bryanston that settled

performances from both teams.

Winchester College that knocked

a matched cancelled by rain. The

Ultimately, Sherborne’s boys were

them out of the National Cup.

rest of the season involved losses

left rueing their missed catches in

There was much promise in the

to the likes of Marlborough

a game that many felt they could

performance, but the side was

College, Millfield, and Clifton

easily have won.

overpowered by the strength of

College. But to the boys’ credit,

Fourth xi The Fourths began their season

the Wykehamists. The boys fared

these defeats didn’t dampen their

The second defeat was a 17-run

better in an end-of-season

spirit or tame their resolve. They

loss to Millfield in a 20-over match

friendly at home to Clayesmore,

displayed pride in representing

where they struggled to keep

where they won with a convincing

the School and made the most of

pace with their opponent’s run

four-wicket margin that

the opportunities to play

rate. Despite a long lay-off with

showcased the talent of the

competitive cricket in a season

seemingly endless cancelled

Sherborne bowlers.

that involved frequent disruptions

matches, they learned from this experience and came out for the final 20-over match of the season to put in a strong performance against King’s School, Bruton.

They won by a resounding six wickets to end the season in style.

and cancellations.

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mini colts a xi A 50 per cent win rate gave the Mini Colts A-side plenty of encouragement in a season marked by cancellations. Most gratifying was a one-run victory in a thrilling 20-over match against Millfield. Setting themselves a low run target, the boys folded in the middle of their innings, meaning they needed nine runs from the final over. Despite huge pressure from Millfield, the batsmen delivered, sealing a memorable win for Sherborne.

Things were much less tight in the seven-wicket win against Bryanston. This match showcased some astonishing batting from the team and proved their threat at

Junior colts B xi

Junior colts c xi

The highlight of the season was a

It was an up-and-down season for

five-run victory over Millfield in a

the Junior Colts C XI, with an

closely fought 20-over match. This

emphatic 123-run loss to

followed a chastening 63-run loss

Marlborough College getting

away to Marlborough College,

things underway. Rather than

and proved a good illustration of

folding under the pressure of this

the boys’ resolve. Sadly, this

defeat, the boys emerged five

wasn’t enough to fend off a 10-

days later for a five-wicket win

wicket defeat to an overpowering

against Millfield in a 20-over

Bryanston team in their last match

match that had a pleasingly rapid

of the season, with the boys’

pace. Another heavy loss, this

rustiness in part explained by a

time to Clifton College, showed

lengthy lay-off as a result of

the team’s vulnerabilities, but they

COVID-19 cancellations. A

maintained their spirit throughout

frustrating summer, therefore,

and proved fine representatives of

with hopes for better in 2022.

Sherborne.

the top of the order. They backed this up with an eight-wicket win against Poole Grammar School and a six-wicket victory over Clayesmore. Sadly, these couldn’t quite compensate for the disappointment of losing the County Cup Final by a single wicket to Bryanston, but the boys should take encouragement from an impressive season in which they showed huge potential with bat and ball.

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s mini colts B xi The Mini Colts B XI managed just one clear victory, right at the end of the season. This came in the form of a 39-run win against Blundell’s School, which at least ended the summer on a positive note. The other positive on their score card for the season was a bowl-out victory after a washed-out match against King’s School, Bruton. The early part of the summer was less strong, however, with losses at the hands of Clifton College, Marlborough College, and Millfield. Even so, the boys enjoyed turning out in their first competitive fixtures for Sherborne, giving them a taste of things to come next year.

mini colts c xi Lost one, drew one. That’s the story of the Mini Colts C XI’s season, which came to a premature end thanks to COVID-19 cancellations. The curtain-raising loss to Marlborough, by an emphatic nine wickets, was disconcerting, so the team did well to hold on for a thrilling draw just four days later at home to Millfield.

There is promise in this group of players, and great enthusiasm for the sport. With a more settled fixtures calendar, they should build momentum and deliver stronger results.

mini colts D xi A 170-run loss to Marlborough College may not seem like the best result for the team’s only game of the season, but the score line only tells a part of the story.

What emerged from this match was the boys’ sheer joy at representing their School in a competitive fixture.

Technique with bat and ball can be developed over time: pride in the light blue is a matter of instinct.

Football

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THE cOviD-19 LOcKDOWn aFTEr cHrisTmas HaD a Big imPacT On THE maTcH scHEDuLE FOr sHErBOrnE’s FOOTBaLL PLayErs, WiTH nO cOmPETiTivE FixTurEs THrOugHOuT January, FEBruary, anD marcH. in THE EnD, THE OnLy maTcH PLayED Was a FirsT xi FriEnDLy againsT TaunTOn scHOOL in may. THE TEam FELL TO a FrusTraTing 4-0 DEFEaT, BuT aT LEasT THEsE BOys HaD an OPPOrTuniTy TO rEPrEsEnT THE scHOOL On THE FOOTBaLL FiELD BEFOrE LEaving.

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Hockey

Despite the challenges of COVID-19 and the loss of all external fixtures, the students once again showed their very best qualities as they competed in internal age group tournaments, alongside mixed age-group matches that saw our Sixth Formers leading and mentoring our Junior hockey players. An incredibly closely fought Golden Stick competition across the Lent Term saw 58 different goal scorers with joint leaders Toby Davies (L6e) and George Perkins (L6a) inseparable on 15 goals apiece. Billy Baker (3c) was the top Junior goal scorer, only a single goal behind his Senior peers. In the age group tournaments, the 1st XI group eventually triumphed, while the JC Rittey’s came out on top of a very well-fought Junior tournament.

In the Junior competition, Freddie Griffith (3c) was awarded GK of the tournament, with Xavier Cash (3m) and Jonty Heard (4c) as MC and JC top performers. Amongst the Seniors, Oscar Maclay (L6c) won the Golden

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Gloves, whilst Archie Mackenzie (5g) was rewarded as Young Player of the Tournament, Ben Farmbrough (L6a) picked up the Defensive Player of the Tournament, whilst William Wolseley Brinton (L6g) took the accolade for his attacking play.

It was fantastic to see the 1st XI players get the opportunity to pull on the coveted shirt in a friendly fixture v Taunton School during the Trinity Term - one of their first competitive sporting opportunities throughout the pandemic, and the team acquitted themselves extremely well.

Under very challenging circumstances, and returning from a year or more of no competitive team sport, the Hockey staff were amazed by not only the quality of the technical and physical play, but how quickly the boys were to support their team mates, come up with tactical solutions, and guide the younger players they were playing with.

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Tennis

First vi

at long last, playing competitive tennis again on our superb grass courts was embraced by all players involved in the 1st vi. captained by nicholas morris (u6a), we had Olly Westmacott (u6c), cosmo Henderson (u6e), sam vincent (u6g), angus Bushby (L6m), Jacob schwandt (L6f), Josh campbell (L6g) and Euan Jardine (L6e) all finding form during the course of the season. Tapping into this form at the same time is always a challenge with a tennis team and credit to our players that the spirit of collective purpose was strong on a number of notable occasions. a worthy 6-3 win against clifton resulted in cosmo Henderson being player of the afternoon for showing balance, poise and excellent levels of consistency throughout, with some superb interceptions at the net.

Pair of the afternoon was cosmo Henderson and sam vincent for only dropping two games in three matches and match of the afternoon was morris and Westmacott’s win against clifton’s first pair.

Our 7-2 win against canford saw a moment of sheer genius from nicholas morris, when he hit a winning back shot (chasing a lob down then doing a ‘blind’ inverse hit) that passed the canford pair who were poised at the net to try and finish things off. Pair of the afternoon was nicholas morris and sam vincent who were undefeated. against millfield, we narrowly lost 4-5 and the match of the afternoon came from cosmo Henderson and sam vincent who beat their 2nd pair 6-2 in a superb display of clever tennis; controlling pace to their advantage, choosing when to go for the big shots wisely and keeping their heads when millfield tried to come back. One of the most enjoyable afternoons of tennis had by all players was against the Pilgrims who, captained by James sewry (d 14), put forward a very strong team that consisted of Henry Field (c 16), charles morris (a 16), archie Leng (a 10), charlie grant Peterkin (h 97) and Toby Dean (h 97). it was a real treat to see familiar faces again and to watch them play such high quality tennis. Despite a 0-9 loss from our boys, the spirit of the afternoon was one in which we saw the elders teaching the younger ones a few lessons in court craft. such season highlights were made even more rewarding because of the long break of competitive play against other schools. The overall memory of Trinity 2021 for the 1st vi will be of a team willing to learn lessons, apply skill and take this forward to compete at the very highest of school levels, with a great sense of gamesmanship and focused determination.

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second vi

Three wins out of four matches tells the story of the second vi’s season, in which they dominated their competitors with skilful tennis and a high-energy game. They won two matches by an 8-1 margin – first against canford school and then against a strong millfield team. The other victory was the season curtain-raiser: a 6-3 win at clifton college. With just the one defeat, in a friendly at marlborough college, this curtailed season nonetheless showed the strength and depth in sherborne’s tennis players.

Third vi

The Thirds only managed one match this year, in which they were defeated 3-6 away to King’s school, Bruton. The overall score line doesn’t reflect the closeness of individual contests, however, with sherborne’s left-handed players providing a significant challenge at the net. ultimately, the strength of King’s prevailed, but it was a fine display from a sherborne team with no shortage of skill.

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s colts a vi A clean sweep of victories tells an eloquent story of the Colts A VI’s performance in this year’s tennis calendar. They started the season with a 7-2 win over Clifton College – the score line perhaps belying the tenacity needed to carve out the victory. With lockdown rustiness beginning to chafe away by the second fixture, the boys came out for a 6-3 win over Canford School in horrible conditions. The season ended with a narrow 5-4 victory over Millfield in a friendly. This was despite the unassailable strength of Millfield’s first pair, showing the quality across Sherborne’s team, as well as their commitment to racking up the win.

Junior colts a vi It was a difficult season for the Junior Colts A, who recorded four losses out of four matches.

Ironically, the closest contest was the season opener, when the boys were rusty from a lack of match play. They took Clifton College to the wire but eventually fell to a brave 4-5 loss. A troubled start to their next match against Canford School meant the damage was done before the boys properly got into their swing. They

eventually went down to a 3-6 loss. The heaviest defeat was 1-8 to Millfield, where the boys suffered through a series of unforced errors. They emerged stronger in their final match of the season, eventually losing 3-6 to Marlborough, with the result hinging on the final match. The results don’t quite do justice to the talent of this team. With more continuity, they should be stronger in the coming season.

Junior colts B vi An impressive 8-1 victory over Clifton College gave the Junior Colts B VI an encouraging start to the season. Sadly, they weren’t able to build momentum from this, losing their next three matches to Canford School, Millfield, and Marlborough College. Each defeat was by a 3-6 margin, and the results could have gone either way – showing that this team has clear potential for the future.

mini colts a vi Sherborne’s youngest tennis players got off to a brilliant start with a resounding 9-0 win over Clifton College. They were

commended by all spectators for their conduct on the court, and the obvious pride they took in representing Sherborne in a competitive fixture. They delivered a similarly strong result in their next match, with a 6-3 win at home to Millfield. The only blip was the 4-5 loss to Marlborough College – a result decided in a final-set tiebreak in the last match.

Overall, then, there is much to look forward to in the next generation of Shirburnian tennis enthusiasts.

mini colts B vi A brace of 9-0 victories gave members of the Mini Colts B VI a dream start to their Sherborne tennis careers. They beat Clifton College and Canford School to set out their stall in impressive fashion. The only other match they fitted into a disrupted season was a 0-6 defeat to Marlborough College. This was partly explained by some key injuries in the Sherborne ranks, but credit must go to Marlborough for the sheer quality of its team.

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sailing

In a Covid-disrupted season, Sherborne’s sailors put in some impressive performances to show the quality of our pupils on the water.

A third-place finish in the BSDRA Southern Area Championship could easily have been a second were it not for a narrow defeat to Wellington College. The Firsts went one better with their second-place finish in the BSDRA Western Area Championships, while the Colts picked up an impressive event victory.

Sherborne then won every competitive fixture it was able to participate in for the rest of the season, picking up victories against Clifton College, Bryanston School, Winchester College, and Milton Abbey.

All in all, then, it was a highly successful summer for the boys, who showed skill, judgment, and wisdom to win in a variety of classes. As one of the few sports only minimally affected by COVID19 restrictions, it was great to see Sherborne’s teams make the most of their time before the mast.

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athletics after a year in which the vast majority of sporting fixtures were cancelled due to

cOviD-19 restrictions or national lockdowns, it was a relief to see at least some athletics events go ahead.

Sherborne’s boys relished the opportunity to

golf

represent the School in a variety of competitions, putting in a characteristically strong showing and performing with courtesy and sportsmanship throughout.

THE HIGHLIGHT OF SHERBORNE’S GOLFING CALENDAR WAS

REPRESENTATION BY TWO BOYS IN THE HMC SINGLES COMPETITION AT THE

BERKSHIRE GOLF COURSE. THIS IS THE

PREMIER SCHOOLS GOLF COMPETITION FOR PLAYERS WITH A SINGLE-FIGURE HANDICAP. IT WAS THE FIRST TIME

SHERBORNE HAD ENTERED THE EVENT

The stand-out meet of the season was held at Dauntsey’s School and saw some impressive results for Sherborne. George Ingrams (L6d) won the senior boys’ discus, Ollie Charles (L6m) won the 200m senior boys’ race and Rory Nell (L6b) did well to place third in the senior boys’ 400m. Sherborne’s boys also came second in the 4x100m relay, after a photo finish – attributing their success in transferring the baton to a practice session with a banana

FOR SEVERAL YEARS, AND THEO

before the race started.

ROTHEROE (L6f) PERFORMED ADMIRABLY,

Tom (3a) and Robbie Foster (5a) represented the

WINNING SCORE OF 69. WITH 40 BOYS

Dorset Championships. Both brothers came up

ANDERSON GANNON (4e) AND TOM

WHILE BEING UNABLE TO MATCH THE NOW SIGNED UP AS FULL JUNIOR

MEMBERS AT SHERBORNE GOLF CLUB, THE SPORT IS GAINING POPULARITY AMONG THE SCHOOL’S PUPILS.

School and North Dorset at a hastily rearranged against Championship best performances on the track on their way to impressive results that bode well for next season and beyond.

The Annual Sports Day was a huge success, thanks go to the huge number of colleagues who worked so hard to make it run smoothly and an enjoyable event for the boys. It was fantastic to see so many boys in action across the afternoon.

The boys’ enthusiasm and endeavour has been remarkable despite frustrating circumstances and we are already looking forward to a full programme of competition, and sunshine, in 2022.

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Water Polo Water Polo Colours were awarded to Marius Cotorobai (U6e), Freddie Banks (U6b) and Daniel Hixson (U6g) for their commitment to the sport. As joint captains, Freddie and Marius oversaw a difficult period, without the customary fixtures and Senior House Tournament. Nevertheless, they led by example in the training sessions and squad matches, demonstrating enthusiasm and good humour in helping the team develop skills, strategies and fitness. A Junior House Tournament took place in the Trinity Term, introducing a new generation of players to this strenuous and exciting sport. At the time of writing, the semi-finals are yet to come, with Abbey House, The Green, Abbeylands and The Digby all poised to compete for this year’s trophy.

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Getting ready for the future Whatever a pupil wants to do upon leaving sherborne, the careers and Higher Education Department gives them all they need to succeed. after their time at sherborne, boys could be forgiven for feeling some trepidation about their next step. But thanks to the support of the careers and Higher Education Department, not to mention the Tutor system, most pupils have a good sense of where they’re going. Even better, they feel ready to embrace the opportunities before them.

a world of possibility As Rob Marston, Assistant Head (Sixth Form), explains: “We work with boys from day one to prepare them for the future. There’s a whole world of possibility for all of them. Our task is to help them identify what’s right for their skills, aptitudes and enthusiasms.”

Given the high academic standards that many Shirburnians achieve, it comes as no surprise that many pupils progress to Higher Education – often at top-rated institutions for their specialisms.

“Many boys secure places at Russell Group universities or leading specialist colleges of art, drama and music. But we have seen a subtle shift in thinking over recent years, with more pupils considering alternative pathways upon leaving School.”

One such pathway is the degree apprenticeship, which gives candidates an opportunity to build professional experience at the same time as studying for an HE-level qualification.

“A number of big firms like KPMG and Deloitte now offer these schemes,” Rob explains. “We’ve had success with boys entering them from School. The

appeal is obvious: after three years of work and study, they have a good income, a secure job and a degree – with none of the student debt that others may accrue.

“The flipside is that their post-School experience is very different from those who study as conventional undergraduates. So it’s not a route for everyone, but certainly broadens the options available to our Sixth Formers.”

Entrepreneurial spirit It is also worth noting that not everyone goes on to university from School. Many take gap years, and, for some, a more vocational route is appropriate.

The growing entrepreneurship among Sherborne’s pupils offers a further possibility.

“Our boys have seen their older peers leave school and start businesses or social

enterprises, and been inspired by that example,” says Rob. “It’s certainly something that more pupils consider as a viable route after leaving School.”

Whatever option they choose, Rob is clear that the Sixth Form experience gives Shirburnians the best possible starting point.

“We have a formal programme across their time at School that helps boys assess their options, discern their preferred direction, and achieve their goals,” he explains. “The Higher Education and Careers Department is fundamental to this, with a huge amount of expertise in mentoring, coaching and counselling. That is further supported by the staff team, who work hard to prepare boys for the future.”

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The old boys’ network Central to this is the Tutor system, which is often cited as one of Sherborne’s greatest strengths. From the day they arrive at School, every boy is assigned a Tutor with whom they develop a close relationship through regular meetings. That person is a key source of guidance when it comes to life post-School.

They know what inspires them, where their strengths lie, and what options they will find most fulfilling.

“The great gift of a school like Sherborne is that we get to know pupils very well during their time with us,” says Rob. “Whether they’ve been here since the Third Form or joined at the start of the Sixth Form, we have a good understanding of who they are. That provides a really good base on which to build for the future.”

A further positive feature is the network of Old Shirburnians who generously share their expertise with current pupils. Rob says that networking events, masterclasses and seminars have a crucial role in inspiring boys about their options.

“It’s of huge value to learn from those who have gone before you,” he states. “The Os network offers inspiration, motivation and mentoring. For example, we’ve held numerous webinars giving pupils the chance to meet professionals, as well as work experience opportunities. The Lower sixth careers convention alone comprised key note speeches, 24 webinars and over 75 professional delegates.”

Even during the disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic, Sherborne has been able to support its pupils in preparing for their next steps. “Most events simply moved online,” says Rob, “making it even easier for boys to engage.” There is a wealth of opportunity available to Sherborne’s pupils when they leave the School, therefore, as Rob reflects in his final thoughts. “Far from feeling daunted by the thought of moving on, most boys are excited. The world really is their oyster, and we help them make the most of all that’s available to them.”

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alistair Hughes (e 11)

Tristan merbecks (g 11)

it is impossible to condense into just a few words highlights from my five years at Sherborne. I remember fondly singing in Sherborne Abbey, English classes with Rebecca de Pelet and of course the many hours spent with friends in Wallace House.

The beautiful Dorset countryside is also something I have missed, having spent the last two years stuck on the other side of the world due to COVID-19.

Despite only having joined Sherborne for Sixth Form in 2009, I left with fond memories and new friends in 2011, having secured a place at the University of Bath to read Chemical Engineering.

When I took my first Mandarin class at Sherborne as a Third Former, little did I expect that I would end up spending my twenties living and working in China. I left the UK shortly after graduating from university and after a brief stint in the US, my wife and I chose to move to Asia to start our careers. I currently work for Jardine Matheson as a digital product manager and I have spent the last couple of years starting up a new fintech company in Hong Kong in partnership with Bank of China and JD.com.

I discovered recently I would be heading to Harvard Business School this autumn with another Old Shirburnian from the class of 2011 (Yousef Al-Qatami (b 11)). This serendipitous Sherborne connection means I will have at least one friendly face when I arrive in Boston. I am now trying desperately to recall what I learnt in Sixth Form Economics class in preparation for going back to school – shame I didn’t keep my notes! To all current students, embrace all the amazing opportunities you have at Sherborne: you never know when something you learn or someone you meet during your time at the School will help you after you leave.

It is amazing to think that ten years has passed since Commem 2011 – the Dambusters March is still ringing in my ears. I can only hope the next decade brings as much excitement as the last!

During the five year integrated Masters degree I got to work on many exciting research and design projects, such as a transient kinetic modelling study of the Methanol to Hydrocarbons process (for alternative fuels, lubricants, paints, pharmaceuticals, etc.). For my Master Thesis, I continued with the general theme of my Industrial Placement with Wessex Water (an at times rather smelly affair) and designed a series of algae raceway ponds for final effluent nutrient recovery for an integrated wastewater treatment plant (to reduce the eutrophication potential of waterways) – spoiler alert, it is not warm enough (yet!).

After graduating with first class honours in 2016, I joined Petroleum Experts Ltd., an industry leading engineering software company in Edinburgh, where I supported the field planning and production optimisation activities of over 400 global clients, including all super major and national oil and gas companies. Unfortunately, the pandemic grounded my extensive travels for the delivery of training courses – in 2019 alone I had taught ten weeks of courses in Europe, Asia and Africa – but I gained a new appreciation for Edinburgh as well as the Scottish Highlands and Islands.

After almost five years of Scottish rain I have just moved to Italy to work on a tan and pursue a PhD in geothermal engineering at the Politecnico di Milano and ETH Zurich as part of the EASYGO project, a research initiative funded by the European Union.

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s Edward russell (b 11) Throughout my five years at school, I spent a considerable amount of time within the comfort of the art block. It was within this supportive and formative environment that I met Sir Michael Hopkins (h 52) who cemented my interest in studying architecture.

I went on to undertake my Part I Architectural studies which led me out to Uganda to design and build a number of schools. I then worked at Foster + Partners, where I was part of a team specialising in major infrastructure projects throughout Qatar. This involved the design and implementation of the largest proposed venue for the 2022 FIFA World Cup which will be the iconic location for the opening and final ceremonies. The team was also involved in the delivery of the extension to Doha International Airport (the home of Qatar Airways) and the connections to the new city of Lusail.

Although I was lucky enough to benefit from working alongside a team within a world-leading architectural practice, I also gained an insight into the ultimate control a client has over a scheme and decided that this was the direction I wanted to take. At this point, I went back to university to undertake an MSc in Real Estate (where I lived with fellow OS Tom Kerridge (c 10)) which provided a foundation for my future employment at BNP Paribas (within their real estate division). I have since worked on several large urban expansions in the UK and a new garden city in Leicestershire, whilst becoming a chartered surveyor. I now work in a small firm managing a range of developments across London. I have also been providing independent advice on some developments outside of London (including an expansion to the settlement of Templecombe, which I’m sure many will remember as the final stop before arriving back at school).

Whilst outside of work I still keep a keen eye on the architectural world and have been building a holiday retreat for myself and others in the Dorset Downs. More unusually, I have also been helping my parents set up a non-secular Natural Burial Ground in Dorset!

As always, I would be thrilled to catch up with old friends and to hear from any OS interested in any of the above.

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george Willmott (f 11) you don’t realise how much you are going to miss Sherborne. Sailing at Sherborne was brilliant, under the peerless and devoted direction and leadership of Dr Hamon and loyally assisted by Mr Mitchell, it went from strength to strength. The OS Sailing Society was a strong, constant and valued presence culminating in a financial grant for me to do my dinghy instructors course at the age of 16.

After Sherborne I elected not to go to university, despite having completed the seemingly exhaustive UCAS process. This was a combination of very average A level results and my desire to do a gap year, which would’ve meant that I was going to have to pay £9000/year, up from £3000. Instead, I remained as a seasonal worker for holiday companies, as a dinghy instructor in Greece in the summer, and a resort rep in the Alps in the winter. I cannot recommend this line of work enough, the people you meet, the places you see and the things you experience will always stay with me.

In February 2015, I joined the Royal Navy as a direct entry Officer Cadet. This was a bit of a shock to the system after my previous work.

After an initial 12 months at Dartmouth, I spent time on various ships as a trainee before qualifying as an Officer of the Watch in June 2017.

Since qualifying I have completed three Middle East deployments on a mix of Minehunters and Frigates, as well as time in the Mediterranean, Scandinavia and of course UK. As a Warfare Officer I am responsible for the navigational safety of the ship, both in peacetime and warfare scenarios. In terms of progression, my next role is to be the Navigator of a Type 23 Frigate, before then going down to the operations room as a Principal Warfare Officer, then hopefully on to command.

In terms of advice I would give to anyone at Sherborne, it would be to try absolutely anything and everything the School has to offer, yes even Fives. While you may not think it’s going to be your cup of tea what it will do is broaden your perspective on life and enable you to potentially have something or someone in common with people you will meet in the future.

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s l l e w e r Fa

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Tricia cant Tricia Cant retires after 26 years serving School House as a much beloved and utterly dependable Housekeeper/Matron and five years as Senior School Matron.

Parents and boys were bereft, and numerous expressions of gratitude were forthcoming for all that Tricia has done to care for countless pastoral needs and nurture the boys on the virtues of gentlemanly behaviour and keeping their rooms tidy.

This level of influence is contained in the maths when

Housemasters, has, on

commitment to her

one considers that Tricia has made a significant

the occasions when I

role has been

impact on the lives of over 400 boys during her time,

have been struggling for

comprehensive and

and all of them without exception, hold her close to

an answer to a House

deeply sincere.

their hearts. When School House OS visit, hers is the

matter, has been my

first name they mention, then their Housemaster’s.

modus operandi, this

Reputations come and

This clearly shows where their affections lie. Tricia is

being ‘Tricia will know!’

go, but Tricia’s will

and always will be a legend, as someone who wins

And while such reliance

endure the test of time,

affection and respect in equally large measure.

has been clearly

there is no doubt

‘Don’t mess with Mrs Cant’ has been a saying

exercised, Tricia has

because the mould had

amongst the boys that has elicited more of an effect

kept things simple,

been set. Tricia, we wish

than the House motto ‘School House is what you

provided the concise

you a wonderfully

are’. It was the first House rule taught by the older

answers, and then

enjoyable retirement

years to the impressionable Third Form and has been

moved onto the next

with plenty of time to

the creed by which we have all lived. This mix of

matter that has needed

enjoy the company of

affection and respect is a rare breed that can only be

her attention. The

friends and family.

obtained by years of day to day exchanges that are

loyalty of House staff,

Thank you for

consistent in tone, honest in purpose, caring in

tutors and boys towards

everything.

delivery, trusting in nature and beneficial in growth.

Tricia has known no

Another motto, this time one that is personal to me,

bounds for we all have

but which I suspect has been used by other

seen clearly how her

Kester Jackson

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Louis de Pelet The School said goodbye to Louis de Pelet at Christmas after a long period of service as a technician in the Design and Technology department.

With all the facets of the role, Louis quickly gained a reputation for supporting boys who struggled with their confidence. Patiently working alongside them, he encouraged them to confront their procrastination and face up to what they were unsure of. He was a technician who was keen to ask questions rather than to hand out solutions and, in doing so, helped the boys to feel the projects remained their own as he supported them in keeping their work and their learning moving. So many Shirburnians have Louis to thank for the progress they made and the success they enjoyed.

He was also one to take up a challenge and would work with the senior boys to support them in solving some complex design problems, and here he would encourage well-thought-through solutions rather than quick fixes, challenging them to rise to the design problems their work presented. He proved to be a master at practical problem solving often finding the beautifully simple solutions to complex problems.

Louis was keen to take

been a very warm and

on responsibility, and so

open colleague, and is a

took on the afternoon

friend to us all. It seems

D&T activity which the

such a natural step that

School ran for a local

he has taken into the

Primary School. Here he

world of commercial

found his teaching

design where the

voice, guiding the

company he now

excited primary school

designs for will benefit

children through a

from the ability, skill and

whole series of projects

talent that our boys

which built their skills

have enjoyed these past

and confidence while

nine years. We wish

allowing them to have

Louis the very best of

plain fun. He also

luck in his next exciting

tutored in Abbeylands

steps and will miss him

and extended this

deeply.

pastoral involvement to his careful, considered mentoring of groups of Fifth Form pupils on the School’s Leadership and Training course.

Louis has an infectious love of technology, so whenever we looked to take steps to expand the department’s horizons Louis was the person to take on the challenge of researching the fine detail of function and performance of any new equipment. He has

Peter chillingworth

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carol House

Fanny James

Carol made the tough decision to retire from her employment at Sherborne School, having given twenty-seven years of dedicated and valued service. When I arrived here in 2000, Carol was employed as a member of the support team in Wallace House and worked part time also in catering. It soon became clear that her work ethic and ability would be so valuable within the Catering team. Consequently, Carol joined full time as a Duty Manager, whilst being developed to give vital guidance and vision to the function and hospitality service that we were looking to grow commercially. Carol took on the role of Function Manager soon after. Her energy and commitment proved a great asset to her colleagues and many successful events were held, safe in the knowledge that Carol was at the helm, front of house. Carol led by example and held high expectations of those around her.

Fanny’s enthusiasm for Sherborne has been so great that she has had two stints working with us. She first joined the MFL Department as the French assistant in 2013, staying two years. The quality of her assistant work was exceptional and it was clear that she understood Shiburnians and was able to get the best out of them linguistically. After completing her PGCE and a Masters in second language acquisition at Oxford University, she rejoined us in September 2017 as a French teacher, making it clear in her interview that there was nowhere she would rather kick-start her career than at Sherborne School.

Over the years Carol became a friend to us all, her sense of humour and charm would always be infectious and uplifting. So often her funny stories of the trials and tribulations in her life were engaging and full of interest. Carol knew how to cope with the unexpected, she truly warmed the hearts of those who were lucky enough to know her. During her time with us she bravely battled cancer for a period, however recovered well, returning as determined as ever to answer the catering call. We all knew her as a true friend with a huge heart, an honest and sensitive family person who always valued the time with her grandchildren and dogs. I know that she will miss Sherborne School as much as we will genuinely miss her presence. We all wish Carol the very best in future life and health. adrian Williams

redesigning the programme for gifted pupils who

Her work as a teacher has been characterised by professionalism. She has prepared all lessons impeccably and the pupils have benefited from her consistency and attention to them as individuals.

Fanny’s high standards have pushed the boys to achieve more, most notably with the work she did in take French IGCSE early. Fanny has shown the same rigour and loyalty to her tutoring role in Wallace House. Her basketball skills as an Oxford Blue have been a valuable addition to school sport. Fanny leaves us to move to Spain, where she will enjoy teaching in a new environment, becoming impressively tri-lingual whilst at the same time being able to enjoy Spanish culture. The MFL Department will miss her hugely.

Judy Thurman

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siew-chiang Lim What truly characterises Siew-Chiang is not his undoubted expertise as a teacher, nor his unrivalled passion for mathematics, nor even his extraordinary work ethic, but the enveloping warmth of his humanity. This quality is the one that extends through and beyond the Mathematics department; it shadows him on a duty night in Abbey House; it informs his tutorials with older and younger boys alike; and it makes his sessions on the basketball court focused, but great fun.

In his time here, Siew-Chiang has created the necessary cohesion within the Department so that we work together towards the common goals of getting the best out of the boys, whilst looking after each other. We work hard, but we have always enjoyed our regular gatherings to enjoy Su-Pei’s wonderful curries and talk nonsense over a dram of whisky. Even at the busiest of times, and there have been enough of those recently, Siew-Chiang has always got time for any one of us. His door is wide open and his calm wisdom and advice is regularly sought by us all. Whatever work he has to do, he will drop everything for us and pick up his own pieces later- often much later.

In Abbey House, Siew-

Department but also in

Chiang has been a

the whole of Bow

hugely devoted and

House: Siew-Chiang is

kind tutor, the first to

special and we are all

volunteer despite his

privileged to have

commitments

known him and worked

elsewhere. He is much

with him. He is certainly

admired by boys and

not a showman - far

parents alike. One of his

from it - but he has left

recent tutees calls him

us all wanting more.

‘charismatic and unique’

However, the position at

and wrote ‘that having a

Harrow is a great and

tutorial with Mr. Lim is

prestigious opportunity

one of the highlights of

for him and his family,

his week’. Another one

and he leaves with our

shared his memory of

fondest love and best

Siew-Chiang seeing him

wishes, and now I must

after school every day

stop as I have

until he had felt more

something in my eye.

settled into school life.

‘Come back. Even as a I know that my thoughts

shadow, even as a

are shared not only by

dream.’ (Euripides)

my colleagues in the Mathematics

Tim Dawson

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michael mcginty Michael McGinty arrived in Sherborne in 2007, and headed up the then new Government & Politics Department with Director of Studies Mark Waldron.

Numbers taking the subject at A level were buoyant, not least because of the characteristic encouragement which the ever-charismatic McGinty brought to the classroom. At the time it was one of the stronger academic links with Sherborne Girls, in an era which immediately preceded a brief period of IB joint teaching.

Ever up for the new challenge, Michael was always on the lookout for other areas of the School to permeate, and for a while he very successfully ran the School’s CPD — when some staff may initially have been unclear quite what that meant!

to appoint successions

RNLI. His Lent in a Tent

of prefects who took

saw him spend the 40

great pride in House

nights camped outside

Spirit, and both he and

in the garden and

his wife, Penny, found

provided further fuel to

time to entertain other

his maxim that one finds

staff in the tiny outside

out more of what occurs

area between the

in a Boarding House by

private side and Abbey

being outside it. It

Later, and in a different climate, Michael became the

Grange, which Michael

saddened many when

Housemaster of Abbey House. Abbey House ran like

insisted on referring to

he returned indoors.

a ship or possibly a “boat”, as Michael correctly

as “The Gardens”.

McGinty also gave up swearing for one Lent; a

referred to his submarine during his days in the Royal Navy, where discipline was tight, but always with a

As quoted by CCF

futile exercise for one

very friendly yet firm steer. Abbey House boys were

Contingent Commander

who is no stranger to

to be found with a smile on their face almost all

and Housemaster of The

industrial language but

of the time, amused by their Housemaster’s

Digby, Rob Le Poidevin,

one that swelled the

gregarious and at times outlandish hailing of all and

“McGinty was proud of

coffers of the RNLI.”

sundry (including the public) in Abbey

his role in mentoring

Road. Indeed Michael was often to be found

tutors who went onto

Outside of the House

standing in the middle of that road admiring the

residential positions and

and the classroom,

boat, and greeting all passers-by, which of course

promotion at Sherborne

Michael ran a well-

may have included members of Abbey House with

and beyond. McGinty’s

attended Cycling Club

whom he wanted to have cautionary words, at a pitch

indefatigability was

which saw many

and volume surely audible in Yeovil. Abbey House

typified by his charitable

Shirburnians out-

settled down to a happy hum and Michael was able

endeavours for the

cycled by their

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seemingly inexhaustible leader.

allow most of the cyclists to pass

though, he had already

The Turing Cycle Route was

across the main road

encouraged a culture of support

Michael’s invention and, in its

uninterrupted (and with little

and approachability which could

heyday, attracted huge numbers

regard, it seemed, for the traffic

well have seen him ending up in

of boys and staff and

jams that he was causing).

much the same way.

military precision involving many

A visit to Westcott House one

His promotion to Assistant Head

rest stations, drivers for those who

summer’s day in 2019 found

(People) at Royal Russell School,

needed to be released from the

Michael enjoying the company of

Croydon, summed up Michael in a

arduous route, and copious

his new charges, whom he’d got

job title that seemed to be

quantities of refreshments.

to know extremely well and who

created specifically for him. His

had the same amused yet

entire approach to his teaching

When the role of Director of

respectful response to his

career, and probably all that

Pastoral Care became available at

thunderous enthusiasm. In

preceded it, is summed up by

Sherborne International, it

Sherborne, he, Penny and their

“people”. Royal Russell School is

seemed like an obvious move for

sons Alexander (f 19) and Harry

a richer place for Michael’s arrival.

Michael who was keen to build on

(U6a) had loved living in Cricket

his experience as a Housemaster

Lodge and Abbey House, and

and to move into Senior

for shorter than expected

Management. He relished the

Nethercombe Farm had probably

opportunity to develop the

been their happiest family base, if

boarding every bit as much as he

only for the fact that as much as

must have enjoyed being under

Michael had missed the boys in

sea-level on his “boat”, running

Abbey House, he didn’t miss the

Abbey House, or indeed directing

door being knocked on at all

the traffic near Fontwell Magna to

hours. Somewhat inevitably,

their parents and was run with

s

James Henderson

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chris nunn Chris joined the School in August 1999 and was employed in the role of painter and decorator for the joint schools’ Works Department, which provided the Estates function for Sherborne School, Sherborne Girls and Sherborne International.

Following the demerger in 2013, Chris became part of the current Estates team until his retirement in August this year.

Chris brought with him a wealth of knowledge and

The first thing that many

Chris was a valued

experience from previous work in many historic

visitors might see when

member of the Estates

buildings, including some in the care of The National

arriving at the School is

team and will certainly

Trust.

a door that had been

be missed by his

painted by Chris. He

colleagues and School

Chris was very meticulous in his approach and had a

was very aware of this

alike. We wish him a

good eye for detail. He was always conscious of the

and made every effort to

long, healthy and happy

need for the School to look well-presented and in

ensure that it was

retirement.

good order.

finished to a professional standard. I

During his time at Sherborne, Chris worked on many

distinctly remember the

refurbishment projects ranging from large scale full

time Chris undertook

Boarding House refurbishments, to small intricate

the refurbishment of the

furniture restorations. He has made a significant

external doors around

contribution to the upkeep of the School Estate.

the Courts. I recall him spending many hours carefully removing each individual black decorative stud from the doors, cleaning them and painting them prior to reassembly.

steven Lusher

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richard Oates When Richard joined the School in 1996 he was introduced by the then Headmaster, Peter Lapping, with the words “Mr Oates has had what one might call an interesting career so far”. I hope that Richard feels that 24 years later those words still ring true. As a Head of French, he pioneered the early IGCSE French course which has since mutated into the hugely successful Triple Languages programme under his stewardship. This has enabled the best linguists to be stretched and Richard’s work in devising a programme of study that ticked the boxes in terms of exam results, but also enriched the boys’ linguistic study has been paramount to its success.

Some of Richard’s

frenetic day. To the boys

happiest moments will

in the junior school,

undoubtedly have been

Richard, a stickler for

his eleven fulfilling years

punctuality and good

as the resident and

behaviour, may be a

simultaneously the

daunting presence. As

senior tutor of The

the boys go through to

Digby during Martin

the older years, they

Brooke’s inspirational

understand the warmth

stewardship of the

and loyalty beneath this

House. It is tribute to

strict veneer. He is quite

Richard is unashamedly passionate about teaching;

the caring approach he

rightly regarded as an

he has spent hours upon hours devising interesting

took to his work in The

exceptional French

activities for the classroom and has inspired the

Digby that he is still

teacher and tutor and

whole MFL department to think outside of the box.

invited to House events.

the type of teacher who

His work more recently, when the Department

A hallmark of Richard’s

will stay in the boys’

decided to overhaul its learning strategies and

work at the School must

memories for years.

subsequently move to OneNote as the main source

be his willingness to

Richard leaves us to go

of classroom delivery, has been much appreciated by

support the boys in any

into retirement and we

all teachers. At a MFL conference at the School a few

way possible, be it

wish him luck in his new

years ago, one of the leading educationalists in

refereeing on the rugby

life in France, where his

linguistic pedagogy, was struck by his energy and

pitch or running

passion for languages

creativity, refusing to believe that Richard was ready

enrichment, such as

and learning will

to retire. He has put energy into running school trips,

Cracking the Code. His

continue as he takes up

such as pioneering a Sixth Form French exchange

classroom, G2, is often

studies at the University

with the lycée Louis de Broglie in Marly-le-Roi in his

the go-to place for

of Toulouse.

early years at the School and a highly successful

colleagues who seek

French and German combined trip to Strasbourg and

advice or a friendly chat

Freiburg.

in the middle of a

Judy Thurman

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sonia reade Sonia is one of the two longest-serving members of Sherborne's Learning Support Department, having joined in 2013 from Wellington School. She achieved her qualification as a Specialist Teacher of Specific Learning Difficulties in 2015.

This, combined with her scientific background, enabled her to offer invaluable help to boys in grasping concepts in Biology, Chemistry and Physics, in addition to literacy support right through from Third Formers through to GCSE English, and even A level History or Business. A lover of the outdoors and exercise, Sonia has exhausted us with her descriptions and photos of running, walking, and cycling.

She can often be found making the most of the School gym in a spinning class or getting out into nature, cycling or hiking the beautiful Dorset countryside, and brings this energy back with her to the classroom.

It’s no surprise the boys

natural teacher; she’s

should feel this way;

creative and imaginative

Sonia cares very

and makes learning fun.

genuinely for them and

She often designs

from their first lesson

bespoke resources for

with her I am sure they

her students, getting

know they have

her students involved in

someone who will fight

multisensory learning,

their corner, will never

whether they are a Third

give up on them and will

Former or a Sixth

come up with endless

Former. Her ‘wikki-stix’

ways to try and progress

have been used for all

their skills and self-

manner of revision

confidence.

topics and her

Novel sights can greet you as you pass Sonia’s room – perhaps a boy

playdough creations help students remember mitosis vs meiosis!

lying on the floor trying

She has been an asset

to remember what the

to the Department,

cards placed on each of

happy to share feedback

his limbs says, playing a

on CPD courses, helping

It’s hard to imagine the Department without her as

game on the interactive

deliver revision advice

she has been with us all since we started. But

whiteboard, winning a

and techniques in

although it is with great sadness we see her leaving

spray-paint spelling

Boarding Houses,

us, we are very excited for her as she begins a new

contest, sometimes

collating resources for

adventure. Sonia will be taking on the role of SENCo

giggling at the silliness

revision workshops and

at LVS Ascot, taking her expertise to a broader age

of an activity but

visiting other

range and a co-educational setting. Much as we will

knowing it means he’ll

departments to give

miss her, our boys will no doubt miss her at least as

have the answers when

SEN advice. We’re lucky

keenly: some forlorn, but grateful, faces have been

his block test comes, or

to have worked

seen saying their last farewells and it’s been touching

the skills required for

alongside her. Good

to overhear some of the boys expressing their regret

putting together a more

luck Sonia, and keep in

at losing Sonia in their awkward, yet genuinely

sustained written

touch!

heartfelt ways.

response. Sonia is a

caroline carrier

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Lucy robins “Bursar” is one of those delightfully traditional terms, primarily used in academic institutions, whose meaning we instinctively think we understand. Before I came to know Lucy over her 11 years as Sherborne’s Bursar, I had absolutely no concept of the critical importance of the Bursar’s role to the success of the School, nor the extent of its reach. Line management of all operational functions, Clerk to the Governors, day-to-day oversight of every aspect of the School’s finances, support for and negotiation with financially stretched parents, development and maintenance of the School’s estate and buildings…. the list would fill my allotted word count with ease. As if this were not enough to manage, Lucy, unusually, had the experience of serving under four separate Headmasters, requiring her to adapt to new styles in sometimes challenging circumstances. And then there was COVID19; as so many of the Sherborne community will know, already full-on jobs saw dramatic increases in demands in a multiplicity of ways. The Bursary was (and still is) at the sharp end, seeking to manage the School’s precious resources and finances in a constantly shifting environment.

With all this on her plate, it is perhaps all the more remarkable that Lucy played such a pivotal role in the Sherborne community. Her husband Stephen told me that grocery shopping took on odyssey-like proportions given the number and length of conversations that took place with friends and colleagues between home and Waitrose. She had time for all the staff, whether teaching or in operational and support functions, and enjoyed being part of every aspect of School life; she was a judge for the debating society, and always sought to obtain tickets for the House plays and concerts in the Tindall Recital Hall. She would attend the art exhibitions and enjoyed many Dinner and Jazz evenings, all of which took place after a long day in the office. Lucy was also a member of the gym: she was a keen ‘spinner’ and enjoyed Yoga classes too. In addition, she always had time for her family.

where necessary. I cannot imagine it was ever as straightforward as she made it seem, but she appeared at least to take on the many challenges of her role with ease and grace, remaining calm under pressure and providing rock solid continuity and wise counsel to all around her, including the Governors. Life as Chair of the Finance and General Purposes Committee was made so much easier by having complete confidence in Lucy’s precision in everything she did, and my colleagues and I owe her a huge debt of gratitude. By the way, we also appreciate the extent of our good fortune in finding a successor for her of the exceptional calibre of David Cole.

Lucy will be much missed by many in Sherborne, but as with so many Sherborne relationships, these friendships will stand the test of time and Salisbury is not far!

She, Stephen and the family have all our best wishes for the future.

As a Manager, Lucy was known as always fair and guy Hudson consistent, and firm vice chairman of governors

s

(m 80)

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nick robinson We were fortunate to be joined by Nick three years ago. Fittingly for a Department where risk and reward are taught, he had set up his own foreign exchange business. His approach to teaching was a suitable mixture of practical and thorough. Pupils would know exactly what they needed to know, and how they could apply it to gain marks. It is unfortunate that the two year groups Nick saw through the Sixth Form did not get to sit terminal examinations - they would have been well prepared for the challenge. He was a stickler for making sure that pupil’s answers said exactly what they were trying to say. There is a lot of jargon in the Business A level and he was always pushing them towards its correct use.

Nick was keen to bring

Again, something they

the real world into the

would constantly refer

classroom. Never one to

to when evaluating the

promote his own

“best” source of

business adventures, he

funding for business

was always looking to

expansion.

bring the rest of the business world to the Carrington Block. I have read more answers based around Tom from Finisterre’s drive towards B Corporation status than I ever believed possible. This was all down to Nick making the effort to set up a Zoom call with said entrepreneur during a regular lesson. It was clearly memorable and skilfully focused on the Business A level syllabus. A visit from another of his contacts (Hornit bike accessories) led the boys to quiz their guest speakers

This year, Nick guided a group of Lower Sixth boys through the startup of their own business (Surf2U). Their surf rental business should do well if the Cornish holiday market is as hot as the press suggests. I know just how much they have valued his enthusiasm and experience. Away from the classroom, Nick has helped with tutoring, hockey and tennis. He seems most content playing doubles on the grass courts, but was more than happy to step in and coach at any level.

about being turned down on Dragons’ Den.

robert Harris

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gary shackle Gary started at Sherborne in 2002 as a young, enthusiastic member of the Sports Centre staff: a popular and lively character, he brought a real energy to everything he did. By 2006 he had been promoted to Manager and held this position for the next 15 years, overseeing a number of significant developments, including the installation of the gym mezzanine and the introduction of a range of new classes and activities.

It was a natural

supporter of various

progression for a squash

charities and was

player as accomplished

instrumental in

as Gary to take over the

launching various

School programme,

events, including the

both coaching and

triathlon and 10K.

administering the teams for a decade; hundreds of boys benefitted from his encouragement, technical and tactical advice. Despite the wear and tear on his knees, he was still able to give the run-around to allcomers over the past couple of years.

He was a tutor in Lyon House, and he eventually found his calling on a School trip to Rwanda. There, Gary, other teachers and boys helped lay the foundations for a village school. He clearly found his ‘happy place’ and a real connection with

To many, Gary will be

the local people. He

fondly remembered as a

returned on numerous

key link between the

occasions and

School and the local

eventually decided to

community, dealing not

build a house in the

only with our boys but

town of Kigali which is

also the Sports Centre

where, after retiring in

members with whom

March, he has taken up

he built strong

residence to enjoy the

relationships. He was

next chapter of his life.

always a strong David guy

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rachael utting Rachael first came to work at Sherborne from Ardingly College in the Michaelmas Term of 2018. She quickly fitted into the Department, winning the trust and respect of the boys and teachers alike. She both expected and extracted high standards from those around her, guiding her charges deftly through the choppy waters of IGCSE and A level Chemistry. She went on maternity leave at the start of the Trinity Term 2019, but before she went, she overhauled the Department risk assessments; an essential, though perhaps not the most interesting job. And that’s the funny thing about Rachael: not only is she superbly good at that sort of job, but she actually enjoys setting internal examination papers… go figure, as they say.

Following her spell away

dawned at Ardingly that

on maternity leave,

they had let a goodun

Rachael re-joined the

go and Rachael will

Department for her

return to West Sussex

second stint in the

from September to take

classroom. She did not

up the position of

disappoint. The boys

Housemistress at one of

reported that she

the Boarding Houses. It

understood their needs

has long been where her

and reacted to them,

interests lie and there is

that she was acutely on

not doubt that she will

top of her subject and

do a splendid job.

that, of course, she

We shall surely miss

routinely set too much

her friendship,

Hall. Some of the

professionalism and

more backhanded

baked items, which,

compliments included

though not frequent,

“Chemistry was not one

were regular. A prolific

of my favourite subjects,

producer of resources

but it’s alright now” and

and sounding board for

one boy who was

all that availed

moved to write, as we

themselves of the

became a more digital

service, she will be much

department: “if

missed. Ardingly’s gain

someone is playing on a

is our loss, but we wish

game, she will know.”

her every success with

And she did; she caught

this new enterprise.

some of my boys too!

It was not surprising that eventually realisation

William Buckley

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Julie Williams Julie arrived at Sherborne in 2007 as a part time Receptionist. She quickly became part of the School community and played an integral part, not only to the School but to the wider community too. Julie was fully engaged in her role and took pride in ensuring that professionalism and great customer service were adhered to at all times. Knowing that for many, this would be their first visit to the School and first impressions were vitally important, nothing was too much trouble for Julie. She was renowned as a fount of knowledge about the School to whom many referred.

Julie forged many long- term friendships within the

Working in a customer

Sadly, in November

School and worked particularly closely with Custos

facing environment can

2019, Julie’s health

and the secretarial support teams. Being part of a

be challenging, but Julie

suddenly deteriorated

two-man team, but working on different days was by

was always enthusiastic

and after 18 difficult

no mean feat. Communications were established and

and keen to ensure that

months she has now

were built on to solidify a way of working that

School events ran like

retired. We all know

continues and still works today.

clockwork. She assisted

that this has been a

with booking tickets for

particularly difficult time

many School

for both Julie and her

productions, plays, CCF

family, and hope that

dinners and she

the addition of a new

particularly enjoyed the

precious grandson will

Dinner and Jazz

fill the void of not being

evenings to name but a

here at the School. We

few. Where possible,

all wish Julie and her

Julie would try to attend

family the very best for

and would always

the future and for their

comment on what a

health.

Julie was keen to help and assist anyone and everyone she could. Assisting many with sewing requests, including making a wedding dress for a staff members daughter, and garment alterations that she carried out in addition to her Receptionist role.

Julie (and her team) played a key part with alterations of uniform and name labelling for the School Shop too. Her professionalism and quality of work with her needlecraft were requested by all, including the School Governors.

‘fabulous evening’ it had been.

yollanda Hurman

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Welcoming new members of staff riaz ahmad

David cole

Hilary Earle

Riaz Ahmad as a teacher of

David Cole as Bursar. Mr Cole

Hilary Earle as a teacher of

Economics and Business.

assumed the role of Bursar in

LAMDA Speech and Drama. Mrs

Mr Ahmad has a degree in

January 2021, having previously

Earle studied Drama at Queen

Politics, Philosophy and

held a number of senior roles

Margaret College, Edinburgh. She

Economics (PPE) from the

within both the private and public

acted professionally for 25 years

University of Oxford. As an

sectors, as well as being a

in Repertory Theatre and spent

economist he has worked for the

Founding Trustee of the highly

two years with the Royal

National Treasury in South Africa

successful Achievement for All

Shakespeare Company. After

as an ODI Fellow and in private

educational charity.

meeting her husband in Les

sector consulting.

Miserables in London, and having Libby Duignan

three children, she co-founded a

ross ashton

Libby Duignan as Teacher of

role play company, using acting

Ross Ashton as Sports Coach. Mr

Theology. Having completed

skills for business training. Mrs

Ashton joins us from South Africa

PGCE RS Studies at University of

Earle joined Sherborne School in

having been Director of Sport at a

Winchester in July 2021, Miss

September 2020, after 16 years

school in Kew Zulu Natal

Duignan stayed on from her

teaching Speech and Drama at

previously. Ross is passionate

student placement at Sherborne

St Mary’s, Shaftesbury.

about bringing out the best in

to cover a maternity leave in the

every pupil and loves the

Theology Department.

opportunity to do so through sport.

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chris Lee

Louise smith

colin stocker

Chris Lee as Head of

Louise Smith as Engagement

Colin Stocker as Estates Bursar.

Mathematics. Mr Lee holds a

Officer in the Admissions

Mr Stocker has extensive estates,

degree in Mathematics and a

Department. Mrs Smith previously

facilities and project management

PGCE from the University of

worked in Admissions, Alumni

experience in the private, public

Durham and taught at Harrow and

Relations, Marketing and

and educational sectors, joining

Latymer Upper before becoming

Development at Bruton School for

Sherborne following similar roles

a Housemaster at Radley. He was

Girls and Clayesmore Schools and

at both the University of

previously Head of Mathematics

joined us following a period of

Buckingham and Oxford Brookes

at Shiplake and is a serving ISI

maternity leave. Away from

University. Returning to his West

inspector. Whenever possible, he

school, Louise runs her own

Country roots he very much

loves spending time in the

company making soft furnishings.

enjoys re-exploring the area

mountains with his family.

through walking and caravanning, Ed snook

as well as music and sports.

Julie Le mercier

Ed Snook as a Teacher of

Julie Le Mercier as French

Chemistry, and Resident Tutor in

Jonathan Wilson

Assistant. Miss Mercier has a

School House. Mr Snook

Jonathan Wilson joins us from

Bachelor’s degree in English and a

completed a degree with the

Sherborne International where he

Master’s degree in Education.

Open University, before working

taught the Sciences for 10 years

Originally from Paris, Miss Le

and obtaining a PGCE in Oxford.

and was the Head of Learning

Mercier also has the qualification

Aside from his teaching and

Support/SENCo. Mr Wilson

to work as an English teacher in

House duties, he joins the U15s

taught Biology with us for the

France. She has decided to teach

Rugby Coaching team.

Trinity Term, before joining the

in Sherborne this year due to her

Learning Support department in

deep interest in English culture.

September. He has previously also taught in Gloucestershire and Guernsey, having been both Head of Biology and Head of Year.

Mr Wilson read Biological Sciences at the University of Exeter and completed his teacher training at the University of Bristol.

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THE

SHIRBURNIAN 2020/21

EDiTOriaL BOarD HARRIET MCKAY ZOE SHEFFIELD WiTH THanKs

THE SHIRBURNIAN WAS MADE POSSIBLE BY THE OUTSTANDING CREATIVITY AND HARD WORK OF MANY PEOPLE IN THE SCHOOL COMMUNITY. WE ARE GRATEFUL TO ALL BOYS AND STAFF WHO HAVE CONTRIBUTED TO THIS EDITION PHOTOgraPHy By

JOSIE STURGESS-MILLS, HENRY HUNT, KATHERINE DAVIES, DAVID RIDGWAY, RUTH LONSDALE, ANDREW CARVER, GILLMAN & SOAME AND OTHERS

SHERBORNE SCHOOL ABBEY ROAD, SHERBORNE DORSET DT9 3AP T: 01935 812249 E: enquiries@sherborne.org www.sherborne.org facebook.com/SherborneBoysSchool twitter.com/SherborneSchool sherborneschool youtube.com/user/TheSherborneSchool Flickr.com/sherborneschool