Gordonian Newsletter Winter 2021

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WINTER 2021

GORDONIANS, Welcome to the winter edition of the Gordonian newsletter, which compliments the online Gordonian community website and our social media.

As we began the new School year on 6 September 2021, we did so in full celebration mode. Gordonian Hannah Russell MBE (2012) won Gold and Bronze medals in the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games which were held from 24 August to 5 September 2021.

On the 7 October, Hannah delighted everyone by popping into School. She is pictured with her former PE teachers: Left, Head of PE, Mr King and Right, Director of Sport, Mr Harrison.

The celebrations continued with more of our Sporting Gordonians representing GB in their sports. We are extremely proud of all of you!

Congratulations to Gordonian Sam Bannister 11055 (2014 – Head Boy 2013) Khartoum, who won Silver for team GB in Sabaudia in the World Rowing Cup III in the Men’s Four in June 2021.

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Congratulations to Gordonian Ellie Boatman (2015) Kensington – who was selected for the GB 7’s Rugby Women’s Squad this November. They played in Dubai and came 5th in the competition.

We catch up with Ellie on page 8.

We were saddened to learn of the death on Saturday 23 October 2021 of Jay Tamsitt (7311) China House, former Chairman of the Gordonian Association.

On pages 9–11 we pay tribute to a very special man who gave over 35 years of service to the Gordonian community.

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GORDONIAN COMMUNITY REPORT The first event that welcomed Gordonians back into School this year was the Remembrance Parade and Drumhead Service held on Sunday 14 November. Thank you to Gordonian David Hutchings 11630 (2019) Khartoum now Officer in Command H Troop, 226 Signal Squadron, 14th Signal, pictured below, who laid a wreath on behalf of the Gordonians at the Service.

gordonians@gordons.school 01276 859733 NETWORK ‘Gordon’s School’

We were lucky enough to catch up with David, who was Head Boy when we was at Gordon’s, to find out what he has been doing since he left Gordon’s in 2019.

Head to page 7.

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During the summer, we were still very limited in the events we were able to organise and Annual Parade was cancelled for the second year. The Gordonian Memorial Service did take place with only six people in attendance.

Gordonian Jay Tamsitt 7311 (1969) read out the names of the Gordonians who had passed away over the year. It is available to watch on the website www.the-gordonians.org/news This winter we ran a competition with our Art students. The brief was ‘Christmas at Gordon’s School’.

The winner is Michela Ferdinando who is a Year 9 student.

The winning artwork has been turned into our Gordonian Christmas card, which we send out to our over 75 year old Gordonians as well as past Committee members.

We hope that you enjoy the holiday season this year. We look forward to welcoming you back to School soon.

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Take Care Sue Parkin, Gordonian officer Maintain your Gordonian profile at: the-gordonians.org

CONTENTS Welcome

1

Community Report

2

Gordon Awards

3

School News

3

Goodbye to Rev Sarah

4

Sports Update

5

Gordonian Entrepreneurs

6

Where are they now?

Remembering Jay Tamsitt

REMEMBERING JAY TAMSITT 7311 (1969) CHINA On behalf of Gordonians we have dedicated a tree to Jay. There is a commemorative plaque by the tree, which is within the grounds of the new Sports Hub. The School will hold a Memorial Service for Jay in the Chapel of St. Edward the Confessor on Tuesday 19 April at 2pm. All are welcome to join. More details will be shared closer to the time.

7–8 9–11

Gordonian Reunion

12

Forthcoming Events

12

Roll Call

13

Gordon’s Business Breakfast 14 Odd Ball Hats

15

Obituaries

16

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GORDONIAN AWARDS This year’s Gordonian Award winners were selected from a number of high quality applications and an extremely competitive peer group. The students have to submit an application form complete with references and then undergo an interview with the Deputy Head (Pastoral), The Head of department(s) for Sport or Creative Arts and a Senior Gordonian, which this year was Jonathan Bell 7918 (1980) China, who kindly stepped in to take over this important role in place of Jay Tamsitt 7311 (1969) China. Jay was instrumental in the introduction and development of the awards since 2015.

Eleanor Scarlett – Music Eleanor plays the Clarinet in the School orchestra and the Tenor Drum in the Pipes & Drums band, as well as being a self-taught pianist. She would like to utilise the award to gain a qualification (like Music Educators – ABRSM) to enable her to progress into teaching and coaching others and to contribute towards the purchase of a wooden clarinet as the one she currently owns is plastic.

Tommy Oluwasona – Sport Tommy is a Rugby player who plays for the Harlequins Academy, Ultimate Rugby 7s Senior Academy as well as representing the School in not only Rugby but also Athletics and Football.

He would like to utilise the award for new fitness training equipment as well as covering transport costs during the summer to trainings and games.

Both our awardees are fine examples of exceptional Gordon’s citizens, great role models, always taking the time to support their younger peers and gaining the respect of those around them. They are able to balance their academic studies with their dedication to their Sports and Music. They show an ardent spirit in all they do.

SCHOOL NEWS WELCOME TO REVEREND WRIGHT, NEW SCHOOL CHAPLAIN

In September we welcomed our new school Chaplain, The Reverend Graham Wright. The father of two daughters, Mr Wright is married to Joanna, a Headmistress in Witley, and takes over from The Reverend Sarah Norbron, the school’s Chaplain for the past four years. We say farewell to Sarah on page 4.

Since his ordination, he has undertaken parish ministry and also worked for the international charity The Leprosy Mission before moving to school chaplaincy. The Reverend Wright was licensed by the Bishop of Dorking, The Right Reverend Dr Jo Bailey Wells on 27 September in the School Chapel.

REMEMBRANCE PARADE

Sunday 14 November we remembered the fallen, including the former students killed in action during the First and Second World Wars and later conflicts. Staff, students and their families, many of whom currently serve in the Armed Forces all joined together around the Parade Square for the Remembrance Service and Parade. The service was led by Reverend Wright.

THE 80TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE PIPES AND DRUMS

The Gordon’s Boys’ Home in Dover had a Pipes and Drums contingent from inception in 1885, who were taught by the Seaforth Highlanders, who, at the time, were posted to Dover Castle. Sadly, the Home was bombed in 1941 and the Band was moved to their new Home in West End, now Gordon’s School. (Pictured are the six boys who came from the Dover Orphanage to West End, who are the founding members of the Gordon’s School Pipe Band as we now know today, forged over the last 80 years).

During the School year of 2021/2022 there will be special events planned to mark the 80th Anniversary. Please check our social media channels Facebook, Instagram or School Twitter accounts to find out more. To commemorate this anniversary the School have designed a pin badge, which all members of the Pipes and Drums band will be given and will wear throughout the School year.

We invite you to purchase a badge. This is not only a limited edition piece of merchandise but also a way to donate to the Pipes and Drums band’s chosen charity SSAFA the Armed Forces charity, the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association.

To purchase your commemorative pin badge please visit this website https://www.trybooking.co.uk/BJIP

“Semper Fidelis”

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SCHOOL NEWS – GOODBYE TO REV SARAH years before taking over as Chaplain from Rev Denis when he retired in 2017, officially licensed by the Bishop of Dorking in the Gordon’s School Chapel on 21 September 2017. While School Chaplain Rev Sarah continued teaching Technology and RE. Highlights of her life at Gordon’s with its varied roles include; • The Year 7 Summer Camps to Henley Fort, Guildford.

• The weddings and baptisms performed in the school chapel.

• Cycling to Brighton and back to raise money for Cancer Research in memory of a student.

• Meeting Prince Michael of Kent.

• Making hundreds of poppies in 2018 for the WWI anniversary.

• and Make a Difference (MAD) Day, which involves giving back to the community.

A more recent favourite memory was the Sixth Form boys and girls sitting outside the school chapel in the sun, slow stitching as part of a Culture and Arts Day in 2021. One of Rev Sarah’s hobbies is crafting, in particular textiles.

Reflecting on her 32 years, Rev Sarah said: “I have absolutely loved taking Chapel in the mornings, it was the favourite part of my day. I had the privilege of having all those students sitting in front, whether or not they were listening, is just extraordinary, it really is.”

As we ended the School year this summer on 2 July, we bid farewell to our wonderful School Chaplain, the Reverend Sarah Norbron, after 32 years!

Rev Sarah as she is fondly known, has turned her hand to food technology; textiles; design technology; PSHE; charity; RE, cover teaching; counselling; lay preaching and finally chaplaincy, since her arrival at the school in 1989.

Looking ahead Rev Sarah continues to work with her local church, St. Peter’s in Farnborough, where she is running the Community Fellowship.

As a priest, she has also welcomed the local junior school into the Church, teaching RE to the children. In her spare time, Rev Sarah is looking forward to getting creative and enjoying time to make dresses and work on her embroidery as well as days out with her husband Tom. We will miss you Rev Sarah, we wish you all the very best!

Upon arrival, Sarah was the only member of staff not to live on site. After a few years of commuting she moved into one of the staff houses (named Khartoum), soon after marrying Tom in 1991, and fondly remembers enjoying two years living within the School community. The social scene was often a mix of cooking dinner for everyone who lived on site in the Rec, and a few drinks down at The Wheatsheaf pub (now Inn at West End).

After moving off site in 1994, Rev Sarah worked in Augusta and Windsor for a while, before moving to Kensington House. Being a Day House, this made life easier living in Farnborough. Sarah enjoyed opening up the House in the morning and welcoming the students.

Sarah has always been involved in the Christian Fellowship; she started up and ran for 11 years the Youth Breakout Group with Mr Coe (then Head of Maths). She became a Lay Reader for four

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Picture above: Rev Sarah with all the Gordon’s goodies.

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GORDONIAN SPORTS UPDATE GORDONIAN RUNNERS

Do you want to be in with a chance of winning a place in the marathon? Chances of winning are currently about 1 in 14.

Annual membership stands at only £25 (£30 in the first year – which includes a £5 joining fee).

Membership applications are currently open to all Gordonians and their families. Email gordonians@gordons.school to find out more.

The Gordonians Runners have been very busy since the reintroduction of races.

Mark Bissett 8077 (1982) China, ran the London Marathon on 4 October – with an impressive finishing time of 3:26:54! Mark ran for the Gordonian Runners, he won his place through the annual club ballot. See below for more details.

Richard Paterson 8304 (1985) Woolwich, also completed the London Marathon but virtually. Fantastic achievement of 5:35:23!

THE GORDONIANS FOOTBALL CLUB

This season the boys have joined the Aldershot & Camberley Sunday League. As we go to print in December, they are 6th in the league table, having played 8 games Won 4 and Lost 4. On the 5 December the boys were the first to play on the brand new astroturf pitch, which was built as part of a complete upgrade of sporting facilities at Gordon’s, winning 4–3 against Rectory Road Wanderers.

Maria & James Parfree (associate members) completed The Great South Run in October.

NETBALL

On Friday 9 July, the last day of term, we held our first ever Gordonian Netball tournament. Gordonians v Gordon’s Staff v Gordon’s XI Netball team. It was so much fun. The weather was nice and warm and there was a great atmosphere. The clear winners were the Gordon’s XI but a great effort by all. We will organise this again in 2022.

Thank you to Gordonian team captain Katharine Twigger (2013) (bottom right) and all the other Gordonians who attended. The top row (left to right) Molly Hall (2020), Sophie Ross , Megan Roberts, Anna Wolfram. The bottom row (left to right) Megan Hall, Emma Maurer, Katharine Twigger.

Emma Plimmer 9641 (1998) Windsor, completed the 10km ‘Race on the Chase’ in Hampshire.

Mark Bissett 8077 (1982), Steve Davis 7930 (1980) & Graham Bartlett 8114 (1983) all took part in the ‘Round the Rock Ultra’ in Jersey in August.

Simon Loftus (associate member) finished just outside 1.30 hours at the Cheltenham Half Marathon in September.

Mark Bissett 8077 (1982) also took part in an Ultra-marathon challenge – the London 24 hour track race in September. He finished over 200km in 2.47 hours.

Finally well done to Mike Loftus 8016 (1981) for sporting all the gear in his club shirt and his Gordon’s Odd Balls beanie hat – both available to purchase!

“Semper Fidelis”

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GORDONIAN ENTREPRENEURS JESSICA MILLER 9696 (1998) AUGUSTA

development. I had always enjoyed working closely with clients, understanding their concerns and defining their goals, and then using investigations to bolster their position or solve a problem. To do so, requires being able to draw together the top talent and expertise across jurisdictions and sectors.

WHAT ARE YOUR AIMS/GOALS FOR YOUR COMPANY? I want to grow Strela into the investigative equivalent of a multi-family office, and build two parallel practices, in Disputes & Asset Recovery, and Private Client Services.

TO WHAT DO YOU ATTRIBUTE YOUR SUCCESS? I am really passionate about what I do, I absolutely love investigations. I believe in their relevance and application, and how they benefit clients – strengthening their position and decision-making. In tandem, I really listen to my clients and potential clients, to what they need and want. This drives me to find ways to improve my skills and evolve the way we work in order to provide a better service. For instance, I am learning Arabic to add to my language skills, At the same time, any success is never solely my own – I have an incredible and supportive network of family, friends, peers and mentors to whom I owe a lot, and from whom I draw enormous strength.

WHAT HAVE YOU BEEN UP TO SINCE LEAVING GORDON’S? It is a (shockingly!) long time since I left the school, but in sum I have lived in several countries, and obtained two degrees from the University of St Andrews (MA Hons. Russian & Italian, and M.Litt Middle East & Central Asian Security Studies).

After university, I entered the corporate intelligence and investigations sector, in which I have built my career and now business.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE MEMORIES OF GORDON’S? Augusta House winning the drill competition, and the last night of each term when our House Mistress, Mrs Lilley, would turn a blind eye to us turning our dorm into a giant sleepover – completely ignoring lights out rules and having a lot of fun.

Lastly, parade days – particularly the excitement of waiting by the Camel in our dress uniform, the whole school lined up waiting to hear the pipes and drums and then the order to start marching. It’s something very, very special to participate in.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS? I set up the boutique investigations firm Strela Advisory in late 2017. Our purpose is to provide bespoke investigations and intelligence to resolve our clients’ complex commercial and personal legal, reputational, and sometimes familial, problems.

We focus not solely on intelligence gathering, but on its use (because that is where its real value lies) by devising individual approaches to client problems, for which investigations delivers us to our desired destination. My particular expertise is in working with clients from Russia and the CIS (Former Soviet Union), and from the GCC (Arabian Gulf) countries.

FINALLY, WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 16 YEAR OLD SELF? Think big, think internationally, and be bold!

I hate trite sayings, but the world really is your oyster. Think outside your national boundaries when it comes to further education, work experience, internships, and where your job might take you. Employers around the world are clamouring for top talent and will facilitate relocation if it means having you on board.

Don’t underestimate the power of learning another language – it is a life skill, and may give you the edge in an interview.

It also shows an openness to the world and an ability to understand and adapt to another culture. In this globalised economy, I would suggest learning an emerging market language, but anything you choose will be an excellent string to your bow.

Lastly, don’t stress about knowing what you want to do with the rest of your life – careers are no longer linear, and industries are ever evolving (mine barely existed when I was at Gordon’s, and who had heard of blockchain or ESG a decade ago?). Instead, focus on transferrable skills, that will be your value-add down the line.

HOW AND WHEN DID YOU GET THE IDEA? Setting up Strela Advisory was largely an act of rebellion on my part.

I realised that the traditional business models in my industry were not where I saw my future and professional

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Parade picture Jessica is 2nd from the left.

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WHERE ARE THEY NOW? DAVID HUTCHINGS 11630 (2019) KHARTOUM

WHEN WERE YOU AT GORDON’S? 2011–2019

FONDEST MEMORIES: I attended Gordon’s School between 2011 and 2019. Some of my fondest memories are from Khartoum House, spending time with the other pupils.

I loved my Duke of Edinburgh and CCF experiences all over the UK and also in India and Equador. Although I’d have to say, if I had to pick only one moment as my fondest memory, it would be in 2017, when I was Head Boy leading the school for a parade down Whitehall.

AFTER GORDON’S: Weeks after finishing my A-Levels, I went through the Army Officer Selection Board and got offered a place at The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. I thoroughly enjoyed my time there and was able to see different units within the British Army, before committing myself to the Royal Corps of Signals. Since commissioning I have spent time within the army working all over the UK with various organisations.

Picture L: David is on the left before the remembrance parade at Sandhurst.

Picture R: David is on the left next to Phil Fox who is the Quarter Master, CCF at Gordon’s School, taken at Whitehall 2017.

I have been fortunate enough to be assigned to 226 Signal Squadron supporting the 16th Air Assault Brigade, which was started in 1999 and whose first commander was General Sir Peter Wall, now Chairman of our own Gordon’s Foundation.

I am currently the Officer in Command of a Troop of 28 people, and the work I do is both niche and diverse, which keeps me motivated and is very rewarding.

ADVICE TO YOUR 16 YEAR OLD SELF: Advice I would give to my 16 year old self would be to look at any valuable things you truly enjoy doing and (ideally) are good at, and focus on what you need to do to include these in your future. Once these goals are broken down they tend to be much more achievable!

HANNAH APPLEBY (NEE NICOLE) 9306 (1998) AUGUSTA

WHEN WERE YOU AT GORDON’S? 1993 – 1998

FONDEST MEMORIES: Life at Gordon’s was not always great for me, I was not in the popular groups from the start. So I often got lonely.

However, I made strong bonds with some of the staff. Sarah Norbron, Sue Sampson, Tony Perry, Denis Robinson and Mr Oettinger were among some of the teachers I connected with.

I enjoyed learning from them even if the subject was one I struggled with, and I always knew they had my back.

Picture L: Hannah at Gordon’s in Year 7 I really enjoyed being a member of the Navy Section in the Combined Picture R: Hannah and her daughter with their medals Cadet Force, and found my chance to shine being promoted to Senior NCO. Learning to march and learning the history behind the parade uniform and the tartan, has given me a deep-rooted appreciation of ritual for historic memory. This made it easier for me to dive into the ritual side of the Oddfellows Friendly Society when I joined.

Through my membership, I maintain a desire to fundraise every year for various charities.

ADVICE TO YOUR 16 YEAR OLD SELF: If I had to give advice to my 16 year old self, it would be to never stop chasing my dreams. That I will achieve great things in this life, and that I don’t need to be wealthy to experience great riches in this life!

This summer Hannah took part in an amazing swim challenge to raise money for The Alzeimers Society. Hannah, who fondly remembers swimming at Gordon’s School, suffers from a medical condition which means that exercise is very painful. She pushed herself to swim the full 10 miles by the end of September, exceeding her original goal of 5 miles. Hannah actually swam a total of 11 miles. At 64 lengths per mile (In a 25 metre pool) that is a whopping 704 lengths of the pool! She smashed her fund raising target of £500, raising over £700. Well done Hannah! If you would like to support Hannah please visit her justgiving page. It is still open for donations. https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/swimfordementia-hannahappleby

“Semper Fidelis”

The Gordonian

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WHERE ARE THEY NOW? ELLIE (ELEANOR) BOATMAN 12016 (2015) KENSINGTON

FONDEST MEMORIES: I do have many fond memories from Gordon’s, sport being one of them! I really loved playing for the netball team, captaining the hockey team, riding in the equestrian team and the annual end of season sports award dinners. I loved having a Day house (Kensington) to spend time and study in as well.

Picture: Ellie at the Gordon’s School Sports Award Dinner.

AFTER GORDON’S: After leaving Gordon’s I went to the University of Southampton and achieved a 2:1 in BSc Economics. I then studied towards a postgraduate certificate in Strength & Conditioning and my Level 3 Personal Trainer qualifications as well. After university I started playing in the Women’s Premier 15’s for Saracens Rugby and soon moved on to Richmond RFC where I started playing consistently in the 1st team whilst working full time in Sports Travel for Edwin Doran. Last season I decided to move to Wasps Women’s Rugby and have been there ever since playing on the wing in the Allianz Premier 15’s whilst also Personal training on the side.

WHAT IS YOUR PROUDEST MOMENT SO FAR? I am currently writing this from Dubai after being selected for the first time for Great Britain 7’s. It is my first international appearance so I’m really proud and excited.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS: After being made redundant from my Sports Travel job during Covid I decided I wanted to do more personal training and be a mobile personal Trainer as I have always liked the idea of setting up my own small brand. My business is called ‘Let’s Get Functional’. Mobile personal training means that clients don’t need a gym membership. It is more part-time at the moment as I am training full-time with rugby but It is definitely something I would like to grow in the future.

ADVICE TO YOUR 16-YEAR-OLD SELF: There are going to be times when you do not feel like you are progressing or moving forward but if you keep putting the effort in you will be rewarded. Keep being persistent, turning up and putting the work in.

ELLIE (ELOISE) YOUNG 11681 (2017)

WHEN WERE YOU AT GORDON’S? 2012–2015 Kensington House, 2015–2017 China House FONDEST MEMORIES: I have so many fond memories of Gordon’s; I loved being involved with lots of extracurricular music such as the pipes and drum’s band, a string quartet and the hotly contested inter-house music competitions. I was also a keen netballer and loved playing competitively throughout my time at Gordon’s.

But most of all when I think of my school days I think of the friends I made, so many of whom I still see now years after leaving school. I feel very lucky to have made such great friends during my time at Gordon’s.

AFTER GORDON’S: After leaving Gordon’s I worked as a waitress for 6 months and then travelled for 6 months with friends from school. After returning from Picture L: Ellie in year 8 my travels, I started studying Medicine at the University of Nottingham.

Picture R: Ellie as Sandy in Medics Musical Studying medicine has certainly kept me busy but I have also made the most of societies at Uni getting involved with: Medics Hockey, captaining Medics Netball 1st team, playing in Medics Orchestra and a string quartet called, The G strings and more recently, playing Sandy in the Medics Musical, ‘Grease’. Grease was so much fun!

Definitely a highlight of Med School for me!

PLANS FOR THE FUTURE: After graduating from University I hope to work as a junior doctor. I do not know what area of medicine I want to specialise in yet but hopefully I will figure that out along the way. I also hope to travel again in the future; my trip between school and university just made me want to go again!

ADVICE TO YOUR 16-YEAR-OLD SELF: Make the most of all the opportunities you can, and get involved with everything that school, university and life has to offer!

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SCHOOL NEWS – REMEMBERING JAY TAMSITT 7311 (1969) Chris Parry 7272 (1969) Jay was my very good friend and I had known him for 57 years at the time of his death, he was a lovely man who I miss.

I met Jay at the Gordon Boys School (GBS) near Woking in Surrey, in January of 1966.

GBS was a military boarding school designed to educate and turn the sons of members of the armed services into well rounded human beings – Jay’s father was in the army and stationed in Hong Kong at the time. The school was overseen by a commandant and the boys were awakened by a bugler playing ‘Reveille’ and went to sleep to the ‘Last Post’.

The prefects were given army ranks from Boy (Private), Lance Corporal, Corporal, Sergeant and the Head Boy was a Colour Sergeant – Jay was a very popular Lance Corporal in charge of a dormitory in China House. The boys were marched in columns to all activities such as meals, church, evensong, various parades, and academic lessons. The school had a very active extra curriculum calendar and Jay used to love to play football on the wing for China House – as we all know Jay was a lifelong Arsenal fan. Jay was also an ‘extremely useful left arm spinner’ according to the Sports Master, when he played cricket for the school.

The inter-house rivalry was fierce and apart from sport House Points were awarded for academia, games, shooting, archery, swimming, junior cadets and drill competitions; House Points were even available for house cleaning as the school did not waste money on employing cleaners!

Jay oversaw the cleaning of the General Gordon Museum which he thoroughly enjoyed as it entailed a quick run round with a broom and duster after which he could relax for an hour or two, whilst the rest of the school were being drilled.

It was a tough school, but it was a great life for a teenager and a place where many lifelong friendships were made.

Jay’s love for the school continued long after he left, he was the Chairman of the Old Boys’ Committee for twelve years and a committee member for more than 25 years. He was an everpresent at the Annual Parade where he welcomed returning old boys and led the AGM. At the age of 16 we all left school and went our separate ways however we very soon bumped into each other again at the Croydon YMCA. At this time, Jay worked in the accounts department at Swan and Edgars which was a large department store at Piccadilly Circus, now long gone. At this time, I would often go with Jay to Arsenal matches on a Saturday afternoon and then back to his room to listen to Arlo Guthrie’s ‘Spirit of Saint Louis’ followed by supper with his parents who were always very kind to me.

Over the years we kept in touch as best we could, and Jay would visit from time to time. On one such visit I realised that Jay had a special ‘gift’ that thankfully not many of us have – he could snore for England! He came to Scotland for a visit in the early eighties, and after a raucous night out we all went to bed. At about 3am and completely spontaneously, everybody appeared in the front garden looking up at Jay’s windows which were almost rattling to the sound of a car engine being gently revved, as Jay lay happily slumbering above. I am sure that it is a sound that Linda knows well!

“Semper Fidelis”

Each year Jay took a cottage for a week in Yorkshire and just days before he died he invited my brother and me to stay with him for a few days and we had a really wonderful time. I asked him why he liked the cottage so much and he said he enjoyed the scenery, which was indeed spectacular, but I think the real reason was that the pub was only forty yards from the cottage door, it sold real ale and fantastic sausage rolls and pork pies.

Jay was a lovely, ebullient, and popular man and a great friend, I feel privileged to have known him.

Dave Cole 8032 (1980) Khartoum I’d known Jay for a number of years, we were ten years apart so didn’t go to school together however this didn’t seem to matter even though he was in China and myself in Khartoum, we bonded from the start!

Our first meeting was at a Gordonians Dinner where I was duly “plonked” next to the then “Chairman of the Gordonians” committee for the meal…. Oh no I thought, small talk all night and I’ll have to be on my best behaviour! Well I was immediately taken by this friendly and outgoing character who I can say over a short period of time, became a close friend, mentor and confidant. Jay was a truly charitable person, his work with the Gordonians and other charitable fraternities, where he ensured those who needed help received it, even down to playing Father Christmas at the local garden centre every year. A passionate sports fan, he was a member of the Lawn Tennis Association and season ticket holder of Arsenal, we can’t all be perfect!

I was lucky enough to speak to Jay on the morning of his passing and we shared a laugh and were arranging to meeting up soon. I was grateful for this and my time spent with him over the years. He will be sorely missed by myself, my family and many, many friends.

Kevin Penney 7103 (1966) Khartoum Jay will have arrived at Gordon’s as I left so I never knew him there. However, I was latterly to be introduced to him in his position within the Gordonians. We need people like Jay to take on those organisational roles that too many of us avoid. I do believe that his commitment to us all, who fondly remember our school days, will be sadly missed.

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SCHOOL NEWS – REMEMBERING JAY TAMSITT 7311 (1969) Andrew Jackson 7938 (1979) China Jay worked tirelessly to maintain and evolve the Gordonians over a long period of time.

At times this was a lonely, difficult and often political job which he rarely moaned about. He was just laser focused ensuring that Gordonians had a responsibility to all the “old boys” to keep them connected and updated with the ever evolving school.

at school but lost touch after leaving. About 20 years ago, we reconnected after meeting on Friends Reunited. From that point we would always meet for a curry in Caterham..near where we lived. Apart from his obsession with Arsenal (!), he was and will be remembered for his devotion to the School and his work for the Old boys of which he was Chairman for many years,..RIP Jay…top man...devoted to his family and his many friends

However, he was also driven by the challenge of making Gordonians relevant and useful to the modern, younger men and women who when leaving Gordon’s had different requirements from an alumni. He partnered with various Headmasters, and school representatives over the years always putting Gordonians first.

As ex China House pupil of course he was a great chap! Thanks for all the volunteered time and effort you gave Gordonians Jay. He truly represented the motto Semper Fidelis.

Keith Nicholls 7462 (1974) Khartoum Please pass my sympathies to Jay’s family. I was at the School during a similar period. I know he did good work for the association and the school for many years. Semper Fidelis

Tony Nicol 7356 (1969) Khartoum Truly saddened to hear this. A person very dedicated to keeping the Gordon School alive past and present. RIP my man.

Russell Andre Rickards 9043 (1995) Khartoum So sorry to hear about the passing of Jay Tamsitt. I never met him in person but am aware of the years of hard work he put into Gordonians after taking over from Roy Newman. I am aware that he built up the Gordonians and although the Gordonians no longer survives as a separate member led organisation, his legacy continues in the alumni community we now have.

Julie West – Former Gordonian Officer (2016–2019) I worked with Jay when I was employed by the School as Gordonian Officer. This period marked a time of significant change for the Gordonian Association. Jay recognised the need for the existing Association to modernise in order to remain relevant to Gordonians of all ages. He worked tirelessly to engage Gordonians in the change process, looking at alternative options and seeking feedback. Today’s alumni engagement across a far wider group of Gordonians and initiatives such as the Gordonian Awards are testimony to Jay’s efforts and success. He lived very much by the School’s motto, “Semper Fidelis”.

This picture was taken at the last after parade drinks in Whitehall 2020 with fellow old boy Tony Gunn. Picture from L to R: Alan, Jay & Tony.

Philip Condell 6796 (1962) So sorry to hear about the death of Jay. I was too early to know being 6796, but met him at Annual a couple of times. I know that he did a lot of good work for the old Gordon’s boys. RIP Jay.

Tony Perry – Former Deputy Head of the School (1965–2003) We met at the start of the Autumn Term in mid-1960’s, Jay’s first day at the School coinciding with mine as a newly appointed teacher. He never forgot this and was always pleased to remind myself and others! Later in life and in the greater sphere outside Gordon’s, we shared an interest in the pursuit of which we met numerous times at a social level. We spent much time chatting and chuckling over early experiences on our respective sides of the fence as it were.

In later years, I worked with Jay as my position on the staff gave rise to a link with the Association committee and their requirements for Annual and other occasions during the normal school year. It soon became clear to me that Jay’s vision for the future of the OG Association, whilst respecting the past, needed to develop an enduring strategy to provide a dynamic mechanism for generations to come. This, I believe, he successfully achieved.

Alan Howe 7309 (1969) China Very sad to hear of Jay’s passing…we joined the School at the same time…I was 7309 Jay was 7311. We were firm friends

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SCHOOL NEWS – REMEMBERING JAY TAMSITT 7311 (1969) Paul Ivory 7937 (1980) China – Advisory Panel Member and former Treasurer to The Gordonian’s Association It was with great sadness that we recently learned of the death of Jay Tamsitt (7311) who most, if not all, of you would have known over the years. Jay was passionate about the School and, particularly, the Gordonian Community giving many years of voluntary service to the former Association and Gordon Foundation.

The last time I met Jay was at the Whitehall Parade and Gordonian Reunion in January 2019 where he, Dave Cole and I ended up in China Town for a meal having already had a bit of a skin full to be honest. No doubt about it, Jay enjoyed a good social event.

Denis Robinson (Assistant Chaplain 1991–1994, Chaplain 1994–2017) His Housemaster at his time at the School was probably Ted Wells who was Head of Maths, and on retirement was curator of the Museum, now the Staff Room. He would have also known Padre Alec Giles, the school Chaplain. This I believe gave him a healthy regard for the ‘Cloth’.

Picture from Left to Right, Paul Ivory; Dave Cole; Jay Tamsitt

David Little 6995 (1965) Jay joined Gordon’s the year after I left and I first came upon him several years later.

On every occasion that we met, over a period of years on old Gordonians day, he had an unswerving dedication to the school, and to China House where we exchanged our respective memories. He was an enthusiastic and committed Committee member giving many dedicated years. He was always amiable and positive with a kind disposition. A true Gordonian who epitomised the school motto.

Susan Meikle – Secretary of the Gordon Foundation & Gordon’s School Bursar Right to his end, Jay continued to support Gordonians, whatever their era attending the Home or School. The week following his untimely passing, Jay was due to come to Gordon’s as a member of the interview panel for this year’s Gordonian Awards, something that he enjoyed being part of and indeed, was instrumental in establishing. These Awards actively link current Gordon’s students with all Gordonians, providing financial support to develop their particular co-curricular strengths. Jay enjoyed reminiscing about his own time as a Gordon’s pupil but was keen to ensure that being a member of the Gordonians was relevant to all, and that appropriate support could be provided. Hence Jay’s brave leadership for disbanding the Association as such, always careful to ensure that the interests of all Gordonians continue to be upheld and not lost within the machinery of the School. I enjoyed working with Jay on this, also appreciating his support both as a Trustee of The Gordon Foundation and as an Academy Governor. It is fitting that Gordon’s will host Jay’s Memorial Service in 2022 as our way of celebrating Jay’s service to the School and fellow Gordonians.

“Semper Fidelis”

I came to interact with Jay when he became Chairman of the OG’s after succeeding Bert Milnes. Jay was always concerned that the OG’s operated independently of the School and very much believed that it needed to change direction. The fact that it did positively change for the good of all concerned was very much down to Jay who gave so much of his time and business acumen to enable the association to meld with the School. He interacted on this with Annie Hughes and then Julie West.

Jay felt that it was important that ex students and staff who had passed way should be remembered annually even if there demise had been reported belatedly. He and I discussed a simple format for a Chapel remembrance at the AGM and hence the birth of what happened every Speech day morning in the Chapel. Carol Willgoss provided the names and Jay would read them out.

My last year as Chaplain (2017) I was invited to the Gordonians Dinner in London after the Whitehall Parade on the Saturday.

We chatted after the ceremony and realised that Jay was going to watch his beloved Arsenal play in the afternoon and I was off to Stamford Bridge. When I eventually made it to the Dinner venue (one of the Tube lines was closed) the Banter was in my favour as Arsenal had lost and my Chelsea had won! Meeting up in the Summer for speech day, verbal revenge was Jay’s as Arsenal convincingly beat Chelsea in the Cup final at which we had both been in attendance.

Jay was a thoroughly easy going character who did his utmost to interact with ex students of Gordon’s. I have had some long conversations with Jay since I retired. I shall miss his presence at the next Speech day. May he rest in peace.

Sarah Norbron – Gordon’s School Chaplain (2017–2021) I will always remember Jay when we worked together on ceremonial events. He would lay the Gordonian wreath at Remembrance and at the Gordon’s memorial weekend. He would also carry the colour at Guildford Cathedral. What a kind, true gentleman. It was such a privilege to record the Gordonian service last summer together for one last time. He will be greatly missed as he has done so much for the Gordonians.

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FORTHCOMING EVENTS Please check our social media channel or the Gordonian website for regular updates. All events are subject to change in the current climate.

January 2022 Friday 14 Business Networking Breakfast – Sports Hub Café Saturday 22 Whitehall Parade & Gordonian Reunion

WHITEHALL PARADE AND GORDONIAN REUNION 2022 WORDS BY PAUL IVORY 7937 (1980) CHINA –ADVISORY PANEL MEMBER AND FORMER TREASURER TO THE GORDONIAN’S ASSOCIATION. ‘Next year the annual Whitehall Parade is being held on 22 January 2022 and if you have never been I would recommend it as it’s an incredible thing to see the school marching on parade, led by the Pipes and Drums, up towards the Gordon Memorial statue in Embankment Gardens. We have booked a room at Old Shades pub, 37, Whitehall, afterwards and if you RSVP beforehand, you can earn yourself a free drink!

Simply email gordonians@gordons.school

Sunday 23 Guildford Cathedral Memorial Service February 2022 Friday 11 Business Networking Breakfast – Sports Hub Café Sunday 27 Parade and Chapel Service March 2022 Friday 11 Business Networking Breakfast – Sports Hub Café Sunday 27 Parade and Chapel Service April 2022 Friday 8 Business Networking Breakfast – Sports Hub Café Tuesday 19 Jay Tamsitt Memorial Service in the Chapel at 2pm

You do not have to be “old” to be part of the Gordonian Community; you just need to have been a past pupil at Gordons School, or any of its former names. Whilst the “School” has, in many ways, changed over the years – the bricks and mortar renewed in some cases and new building put – the ethos and values of it have not.

June 2022 Friday 10 Business Networking Breakfast – Sports Hub Café

When I left school myself, I went back a couple of times initially but gradually life took over and I lost contact. Careers, mortgages, and family took precedence, and quite rightly so, but as and when life settled, and the kids grew up there was a moment when I wondered about “the old place and the friends I had whilst there.”

Saturday 11 Parade and Fun Day Gordonian Netball Tournament – date TBC July 2022 Saturday 2 Annual Parade & Gordonian Memorial Service August 2022 Monday 29 Gordonian Charity Cricket Match

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Social media is a great thing and some of you are too young to remember “Friends Reunited” now that we’re in the era of Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin etc. but gradually I started to form my own network of old schoolmates until I became involved in the Gordonian community.

The School can do all of this for you in whichever way you want it, be that by you joining the events it hosts such as Annual or giving support to students via Career talks, work experience placements or simply just a visit.

My advice is to “Give it a go as; what can you lose by doing so?”

My very best wishes to you and yours’.

#Connect #Support #Enhance

ROLL CALL Well done to Gordonian and Community and Development team Member HARRIET TURK (née McGuire) 2008 Augusta, who along with her Gordonian siblings and family members, completed a cycle challenge. For 30 days, from 28 September to 28 October 2021, they cycled 300 miles each in the 30 days, in memory of their Grandad Ernie and his favourite charity, St Mungo’s, a homeless charity.

They smashed through their target and have raised over £1,100.

Picture: Siblings Harriet (bottom middle), Alice (2004) (Bottom Right) and Jake (2006) (top centre) all attended Gordon’s School.

Congratulations to ARCHIE PEARSON 12281 (2020) Sandringham. Archie has been awarded an Army Officer Sixth Form Scholarship. Archie, who has been inspired by friends and family in the military, said the award was “...one of the biggest achievements of my life”. Many congratulations Archie!

Picture: Mrs & Mrs Burson on the front field of the School.

Gordonian JOHN MANSFIELD 9721 (2004) married Jacqui Harvey on 24 October 2021 in the School Chapel.

RICHARD PATERSON 8304 (1985) Woolwich Lost Gordon’s Medal Reunited after 20 years.

‘I have attached a photo of my headwear and cap badge from eBay for shooting and golfing you might recognise? eBay is great – I bought a Gordon Medal on there the other week as I lost mine in a house move 20 years ago. It was sent to me from a house clearance in Plymouth. It turned out to be the medal I lost. Unbelievable.’

Picture: Mr & Mrs Mansfield taken at their wedding reception.

Congratulations to both couples.

Gordonian BENJAMIN BALE 9434 (2000) Balmoral, had his son William christened this summer at the Chapel where he previously had his daughter christened and got married!

Benjamin is one of four siblings who all attended Gordon’s School between 1995-2007 and were all taught by Rev Sarah.

WEDDINGS AND BLESSINGS

Rev Sarah was able to enjoy a few more weddings, blessings and Christenings before she left.

Gordonian VICKY BURSON (née Thom) 10859 (2010) China and her husband Jamie held their blessing in the Chapel of St Edward the Confessor on Saturday 25 September 2021. Vicky and her siblings all attended Gordon’s and she had always wanted to revisit her past and hold it in the gorgeous chapel.

“Semper Fidelis”

Picture: from left to right: Benjamin (2000), Amanda (2005), Rev Sarah, Lucinda (2007), Toby (2002).

If you have news to share with our community please get in touch via email at gordonians@gordons.school

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Are you interested in meeting other local professionals & business people?

Whether you run your own business, are a consultant or are just interested in expanding your business network, Gordon's business breakfast is a networking event that will give you the opportunity to meet and discuss topical business themes in a relaxed environment

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GORDON'S BUSINESS NETWORKING

Second Friday of every month 8am to 10am: The Sports Hub Cafe, Gordon's School £6.50 per person (breakfast included) To book go to the Community Section of the school website: www.gordons.school For more information please email: boxoffice@gordons.school

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ODD BALLS

Whatever the weather, wherever you are in the world – bring a smile to your face by wearing a Gordon’s Odd Ball Beanie hat!

Support the School and the Odd Balls Charity, Testicular Cancer, by buying your hat today. Simply go online to www.trybooking. co.uk/QNS. These fabulous hats at £12 each plus postage and packaging. Don’t forget to share a picture of you in your hat, we love to see them. You can email your photograph to www.gordonians@gordons.school

THE GORDON’S LEGACY 1885 SOCIETY

Will you consider leaving a lasting legacy and making a difference to future generations at Gordon’s School?

Gordon’s has ambitious plans, both for widening access to today’s “necessitous” children, as well as the development of our facilities.

A bequest is one of the most welcome philanthropic gifts you can make and gives the School the opportunity to honour and thank you in your lifetime and keep your connection with Gordon’s in perpetuity.

We need your help to bring these plans to fruition, provide the best opportunities, and allow us to continually look to the future.

“I have always been very thankful for all the School did for me and it has given me much pleasure to donate each month for many years; to have taken part in the latest window restoration fund for the Chapel, and both my wife and I have bequeathed in our Wills a thank you gift to the School. The Gordon’s Boys School, now Gordon’s School, has really made a great contribution to many young people’s lives allowing them to lead long and successful careers.”

Brian Leversha 6473 (1956) To make us aware of your bequest, or for a confidential discussion, please contact: Mrs Susan Meikle, Secretary of The Gordon Foundation Gordon’s School, Bagshot Road, West End, Surrey, GU24 9PT E: smeikle@gordons.school W: www.gordons.school T: 01276 858084

“Semper Fidelis”

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OBITUARIES ALLAN HEBBORN 5681 (1949)

WILLIAM HAROLD 6573 (1958)

Sadly Gordonian Allan Hebborn 5681 (1949) passed away on 2 June 2021.

We are very sad to share the news that William Harold passed away after a long illness on 21 August 2021. His daughter got in touch to share the news.

Allan’s daughter told us that ‘He loved to reminisce about his time at the Gordon Boys’ school. He loved watching the boys and girls marching and the bands playing.

He loved his yearly invite at the end of summer term.’

DAVID HENRY AMYATT SWINBURN, CBE DL Former Foundation trustee and school governor, David Henry Amyatt Swinburn CBE, DL passed away on 11 June 2021.

Our thoughts are with Allan’s family.

JAY TAMSITT 7311 (1969) We were saddened to learn of the death on Saturday 23 October 2021 of Jay Tamsitt (7311) China House, former chairman of the Gordonians.

TIMOTHY BURD 6980 (1963) We heard from his wife, Andrea, that he has passed away on 26 January 2021 at Mountbatten Hospice after a battle with lung cancer.

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SEMPER FIDELIS #Connect #Support #Enhance