Caterham School_Omnia issue 2 2017

Finding Drama with OC Chuk Iwuji

Photograph Š Charlie Carter

An OC Beginner’s Guide to Politics Motorcycling the Warr Way Capturing Curiosity Neurology on the Brain

The magazine for The Caterham School Society Issue 02. 2017

01

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

FROM THE EDITOR, ELOISE VÄISÄNEN

CONTRIBUTORS

There would seem to be nothing that connects the realms of video production, politics, neuroscience, and rugby, until you realise that these are, in fact, all united by the domain of Caterham School.

Thank you to all the contributors who have sent in their news, and shared their worlds with us in this edition of Omnia.

John Warr, current parent Hannah Owen, current Upper Sixth pupil Michael Aminoff (OC 1953 – 1959) Mary Whenman (OC 1985 – 1987) Victoria Muir (OE 1980 – 1989) Chuk Iwuji (OC 1987 – 1993) Ashley Pollak (OC 1993 – 1998) Frank Siu (OC 2005 – 2007) Samir Dwesar (OC 2001 – 2008) Sebastian Wendler (OC 2007 – 2008) Matt Foulds (OC 2005 – 2009) Francesca Adams (OC 2008 – 2015) Steven Greenhalgh (OC 2001 – 2015) Emily Marcovecchio (OC 2009 – 2016) Esika Baruah (OC 2014 – 2016) Jonathan Ho (OC 2010 – 2016) Thomas Land (OC 2001 – 2016) Dima Leyko (OC 2011 – 2016) Petras Slekys (OC 2014 – 2016)

The alumni department were delighted to receive news of career advice requests on LinkedIn, old friends being reunited, and new friends being made, as a result of the first edition of Omnia.

We hope this edition will continue to foster these connections between all members of the Caterham School Society – alumni, current pupils, parents, and friends of the School.

If you would like to make a contribution to a future edition of Omnia, please do not hesitate to contact me.

With best wishes, Eloise Väisänen eloise.vaisanen@caterhamschool.co.uk tel: 01883 335091

Designed and produced by Haime & Butler haime-butler.com

In 2009 a series of earthquakes hit L’Aquila in Italy, and the surrounding villages. In both 2015 and 2016 I explored the areas that have been left to decay. This personal project is something about which I am extremely passionate and which I hope to explore further in the future. These images were edited into black and white to enhance the tones and to create a very nostalgic feeling, akin to the style of film photography.

Emily Marcovecchio (OC 2009 – 2016)

The Caterham School Society

02

CONTENTS

15

53

33 03

Welcome From the Headmaster, Ceri Jones, and President of the OCA, Stephen May.

04 Forthcoming Events

Business networking drinks, reunions, sports fixtures, lectures, and even more is happening this year, and beyond!

07

Finding Drama by Chuk Iwuji

11

An OC Beginner’s Guide to Politics with OC Samir Dwesar

Chuk visited the School and shared his experiences of playing big roles on stage and screen.

07 21

OCA News

26 30

OCs: In Their Own Words

33

Samir Dwesar (OC 2001 – 2008) speaks with the editor about how Caterham influenced his decision to go in to politics and experience for himself life at the forefront of political campaigning.

15 19

Motorcycling the Warr Way Current parent John Warr describes what makes Harleys special, nicknames for bikes, and how the only way to travel is by motorcycle.

Keep up to date with news from OCs.

37

How our pupils are actively involved in supporting local, regional and global initiatives through volunteering, charity work, and collaborative projects.

Caterham Currently

50

China’s social credit score – an Orwellian future? By current pupil, Hannah

Tackling your Assumptions: Playing Rugby for Spain by OC Matt Foulds

A Private View: Public Relations with OC Mary Whenman OC, and OCA Vice-President, Mary Whenman (OC 1985 – 1987) tells the editor exactly how, and why, you should consider a career in PR.

The opening of the new Centre for Performing Arts, a talk by Helen Sharman and reviews of Grease!

An extract from Preview 2017.

53

Neurology on the Brain with OC Professor Michael Aminoff Michael tells the editor about what took him across the Atlantic, his love for medical history, and how you can become a professor of neurology and still play the Spanish guitar.

Capturing Curiosity by OC Ashley Pollak

After suffering two serious injuries since starting out as a professional rugby player in 2009, Matt now plays for Spain, and set his sights on the World Cup in Japan in 2019.

39

43

Partnerships

American dreams, cookies, nanotechnology: no subject is too big, or small, for the curious minds at etio, OC Ashley Pollak’s (OC 1993 – 1998) video production agency.

An International Interview with Sebastian Wendler Sebastian tells the editor how he found the secret to boarding abroad, tackled homesickness, and how even Germans think their language is hard!

A showcase of the variety of events, reunions, and sports fixtures for all Caterhamians.

39

58

Why Study...

69

In the Archives

71

From Phytology to Finance with OE Victoria Muir

Read about a variety of university courses from OCs who are currently studying.

A look in to Caterham’s history, and a search for lost alumni.

Victoria tells the editor how you really can go from studying plant biology to a career in the City.

74

Obituaries Giving thanks for the lives of members of the Caterham School Society.

03

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

A WELCOME FROM THE HEADMASTER

A WELCOME FROM THE OCA PRESIDENT

W

T

elcome to this new edition of Omnia. I was delighted by the very positive feedback we received from the first edition of this new publication, and hope that you enjoy this edition as much.

Omnia gives you a unique perspective into the shared journey, and shared values, of all those connected with Caterham School. I hope you agree with me that one of the enduring strengths of the School is that we encourage and nurture pupils to develop their own interests and talents, and that we encourage them to be their own agents of change. This edition of Omnia once again highlights the enormous success of both current and former pupils at the School across a diverse range of areas, and reaffirms my strong view that the single most important thing we do at School is to ignite passions and interests that last a lifetime.

Omnia also provides a strong case for how powerful and energetic the Caterham School community is when it comes together. There is a wealth of talent, expertise, and experience among our pupils, parents, and alumni that provides a huge support for the activities and development of the School, of which I am hugely grateful.

As I write, the assembly theme for the week is ‘standing on the shoulders of giants’ – I am in absolutely no doubt that the current and future success of the School will be built with the involvement and support of those who have been through the School, and those currently in it.

he 100 Old Cats and guests who attended our annual dinner in March were treated not only to a moving address from Rob Davey, who led the School from my time as a pupil, to my children’s time as pupils, but were also delighted to be joined by several members of the team that supported him. We had a memorable evening which evoked the sentiments that our current head, Ceri Jones, envisions with the Caterham School Society.

Our School is an evolving community and the benefits for us all continue way beyond our initial involvement; teachers who would berate me for my children’s shortcomings have become cherished friends, pupils whom I remember at drama or sports events return to share their career stories, and some have married each other and had young kittens!

Whatever your link to the School, the Society should be able to offer you something of interest, and for us Old Cats it is not only a great way to network, socialise and play sport, but also to participate in perpetuating and improving the School for future generations.

On behalf of your committee, I thank the production team and contributors to this edition of Omnia and hope you enjoy this sample of our community.

Your President, Stephen May

Ceri Jones Headmaster

If you attended Caterham School you are an Old Cat and are a member of an exclusive group of people who can benefit a great deal from your association, august institution, and from your fellow alumni.

If you have registered with the Old Cats Association you will already enjoy what is on offer to you. If you know someone who would like to register please encourage them to contact Eloise Väisänen, our Alumni Officer (eloise.vaisanen@caterhamschool.co.uk / tel: 01883 335091).

The Caterham School Society

04

Forthcoming events June 2017

Cambridge Reunion

OC Day “All the Sevens” Reunion

Thursday 15 June From 6.30pm, Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge

Sunday 25 June 12 noon, Caterham School

An event open to all OCs who went to (or are still attending!) Oxford or Cambridge, as well as OCs who live in the Cambridge area. This special event at Fitzwilliam College is a highlight of the programme, with welcome drinks and a sumptuous meal in a great venue to meet new and old friends. For more information please contact Iona Mackay Bulger, Development and Communications Officer (events@caterhamschool.co.uk / tel: 01883 335089).

The annual OC Day reunion lunch will be held at the School, and include the traditional cricket match between the School’s current 1st XI vs the Old Caterhamians, and tours of the School.

Tickets are £20, and can be purchased via Eventbrite (https://goo.gl/hpXzGK) or directly from Eloise Väisänen, Alumni Officer (eloise.vaisanen@caterhamschool.co.uk / tel: 01883 335091).

Caterham School Society Family Day Sunday 25 June 12 noon, Caterham School A day of fun, games, sport, and plenty of eating and drinking. A great opportunity to enjoy our beautiful grounds whilst having fun with the whole family! For more information please contact Iona Mackay Bulger, Development and Communications Officer (events@caterhamschool.co.uk / tel: 01883 335089).

OCA Golf Day Thursday 22 June 10.00am, Woldingham Golf Club Golfers of all abilities are invited to join this year’s OCA Golf Day at Woldingham Golf Club.

Tickets are £40 for under 30s, £55 for a single ticket, and £20 for dinner only. Golfers’ tickets include tea/coffee and bacon rolls upon arrival, lunch, golf, and dinner. Tickets can be purchased via Eventbrite (https://goo.gl/A550ht) or directly from Eloise Väisänen, Alumni Officer (eloise.vaisanen@caterhamschool.co.uk / tel: 01883 335091).

05

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

July 2017

Greek Theatre – Antigone Sunday 2 July 7.00pm, The Orchard Theatre, Caterham School

Arts Week Thursday 29 June to Thursday 6 July Caterham School The last week of the Summer Term is packed with inspirational artistic activities, displays, and performances.

A full programme of events will be available during the Summer Term.

Sophocles’ classic play Antigone is presented in a new version, translated, and performed, by our pupils. Our powerful and unconventional heroine highlights the conflict between individual and state, and moral and divine law. Performed outdoors in our Orchard Theatre.

For more information please contact Iona Mackay Bulger, Development and Communications Officer (events@caterhamschool.co.uk / tel: 01883 335089).

Venetian Masked Ball Saturday 8 July 6.45pm, Caterham School

Please note that some events may require tickets.

Elizabethan Festival Thursday 29 and Friday 30 June 6.30pm, The Orchard Theatre, Caterham School Please join us for an evening of comedy, tragedy, and sunshine in our new outdoor theatre. Performers present new versions of two abridged Shakespeare plays, as well as Elizabethan monologues, jesters, and musical entertainment. For more information please contact Iona Mackay Bulger, Development and Communications Officer (events@caterhamschool.co.uk / tel: 01883 335089).

Tickets are £5.

The Leavers’ Ball celebrates our fantastic Caterham community, and the achievements of our Sixth Form, who perform a wonderful leavers’ dance. For more information please contact Iona Mackay Bulger, Development and Communications Officer (events@caterhamschool.co.uk / tel: 01883 335089).

The Caterham School Society

August 2017

06

November 2017

London Beach Rugby

OC Class of 2008 Reunion

Saturday 5 August All Day, Potters Field Park, Tower Bridge

Saturday 11 November 6.00pm, Leathem Room, Caterham School

Run by OC Myles Waud (OC 2000 – 2007), the London Beach Rugby is a fantastic day out for all sports fans!

With a beach in the centre of the City, teams battle it out to win the title of 2017 Beach Rugby Champion. This year we are entering a team of Old Caterhamians, and all Caterhamians are welcome to come along and watch, and join us for drinks at a nearby venue throughout the day. For more information please contact Eloise Väisänen, Alumni Officer (eloise.vaisanen@caterhamschool.co.uk / tel: 01883 335091).

The class of 2008 are invited to join us for an informal reunion in the Leathem Room from 6.00pm. Teachers, boarding staff, and members of the external relations team will be attending to hear all your exciting news of what you’ve been up to since leaving the School.

For more information please contact Eloise Väisänen, Alumni Officer (eloise.vaisanen@caterhamschool.co.uk / tel: 01883 335091).

OC Day and Remembrance Sunday Sunday 12 November 12 noon, Caterham School All OCs are invited to attend our lunch from 12 noon in the Refectory. The School’s Remembrance Sunday service precedes the lunch, and will begin at 10.45am at the front of School. Refreshments will be available in the Concourse before, and after, the service. The annual rugby and lacrosse matches will take place on Home Field from 1.00pm.

Tickets are £20, and can be purchased via Eventbrite (https://goo.gl/D8s1qr) or directly from Eloise Väisänen, Alumni Officer (eloise.vaisanen@caterhamschool.co.uk / tel: 01883 335091).

September 2017

OC Networking Drinks September: Date tbc 6.30pm, London venue tbc Our biannual networking drinks hope to bring together all alumni either studying, working, or retired, to share their professional expertise and advice over informal drinks and canapés in a London venue. For more information please contact Eloise Väisänen, Alumni Officer (eloise.vaisanen@caterhamschool.co.uk / tel: 01883 335091).

07

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

Photograph © Charlie Carter

DRA

The Caterham School Society

Gaining a degree in economics from the University of Yale may seem like an unusual path to the professional stage and screen, but that is exactly the one Chukwudi Iwuji (OC 1987 – 1993), or Chuk as he prefers to be called, took to land big roles, such as the title role in the Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of Henry VI, Prince Tydeus in the Royal National Theatre’s Welcome to Thebes, and, more recently, Løvborg in Ivo van Hove’s Hedda Gabler, at the National Theatre.

FINDING

AMA

By Chuk Iwuji

Chuk visited the School in March this year, and shared with some of our current pupils his experiences of playing big roles on stage and screen, and working with, amongst others, Keanu Reeves, Colin Salmon, Téa Leoni, and Matt Smith.

In this article, Chuk shares this advice, to help you all find your inner thespian. 

08

09

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

I was blessed with some great teachers at Caterham The single greatest influence on me was that of the late Robert Jarrams, my house master in Viney. I never took a class with him, but for me, and, I am sure, for my boarding school mates, he had a significant impact on us; he was the embodiment of courtesy, tidiness, inquisitiveness, and kindness. He quietly guided us by example. Every time I do a show in London, I think, “Mr Jarrams would have been here”. That was the kind of support and dedication he had for his pupils. I miss him.

Drama found me After leaving School I first gained a BA in economics at Yale University, and then an MFA in theatre at University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee. I believe that I was much happier having a varied education, and experiencing several disciplines, and keeping my options open, until it became clear that I had to act. I don’t think I could have come to that decision, and sacrificed so much for it, without fully exploring other options growing up. In the end, when the door opened definitively, there simply was no other option but to go through it.

Charles Bukowski’s poem So You Want to be a Writer is a wonderful book for aspiring actors Bukowski’s poem pretty much has all the advice you need to become a writer, actor – anything! I would just add, “go easy on yourself, as compassion for oneself goes long way”.

I prepare for roles by learning the lines backwards and forwards I repeat that until I don’t even have to think about the lines. I also read the script/play over and over until I know the world and the people. By doing those two things I create a vocabulary and a world for myself, then I just leave it to my imagination to keep surprising me and coming up with things; I grab hold of my favourite choices, hone them a little, and put them in my back

The most important characteristic for a rehearsal room is flexibility, and also plenty of courage!

The Caterham School Society

pocket for the rehearsal room. There, you have to be flexible, which can mean either using what your imagination has come up with, or discarding it, depending on what you think is best at the time. The most important characteristic for a rehearsal room is flexibility, and also plenty of courage!

The biggest mistake to make in an audition is to go in there only to get the job I am still guilty of this from time to time. The moment an audition becomes about showing how good you are, or impressing the casting director or director themselves, then you’ve probably blown it. Treat the audition like an extension of your rehearsal; your only obligation in an audition is to leave that room knowing you showed your best work. That is something you can control. Their taste or decision is something you can’t.

Every year, the acting industry becomes less of a meritocracy The sad fact is that, for a very long time, success in this industry has been one part talent and hard work, and nine parts everything else. I genuinely think that it’s getting harder to get the roles for the right reasons. But, once you accept the industry as it is, you can make more informed choices about how much you want it; I do believe, and will always believe, that, if you can ask yourself, and be truthful with yourself, whether you truly want this, love this, and are any good at this, and the answer is yes, they all you need is the stamina to keep going, and you will get there.

Rejections hurt They will always hurt. But it’s about speed of recovery.

You see, if you’ve done your job, it’s easier to recover, because the balm comes in the knowledge that you did absolutely all that you could do. By doing this, you learn to show compassion towards yourself, and to move on.

This business is all about moving on.

The most unusual ‘costume’ I have worn was when I played Aufidius Before my big fight with Coriolanus in the Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of the same name, I would have glycerine sprayed all over my body to make me look sweaty – it was certainly not what you would call a traditional costume!

As for costumes in the more traditional sense, I dig the beautiful suit I wore for John Wick: Chapter 2 – that was a keeper!

I don’t take my character home with me I focus on the present, which is a good practice anyway.

When the applause dies down, I catch a tube, and that’s reality. 

10

11

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

AN OC BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO

POLITICS WITH OC SAMIR DWESAR

O

pen political discussion is encouraged at Caterham School, with the adoption of politics as a subject in the curriculum, as well as the annual launch of the Preview magazine since 1999. Samir Dwesar (OC 2001 – 2008) spoke with the editor about how Caterham influenced his decision to go in to politics and experience for himself life at the forefront of political campaigning.

Samir, you studied politics at Caterham – tell me, how do you feel Caterham influenced your choice of career?

I studied politics with David Clarke. His more right-wing view certainly had an impact on my politics and where I am today. My interest in American politics was inspired by another teacher, Tom Murphy, who was amazing, and really passionate about American politics – I eventually even volunteered for the Hillary Clinton campaign! During my time at Caterham I went on the Western Reserve Academy exchange, which I know continues today.

I found it really exciting, and further enhanced my interest in politics.

Caterham certainly gives you a sense of service, and community spirit, and inspired me to take part in volunteer projects; I was a Gamesmaker at the Aquatics Centre in 2012, and volunteered, in my own time, for the Remain campaign.

Since beginning your career as a Parliamentary Assistant in February 2015, how has your perception of working in politics changed?

My perception of working in politics has changed as I realised there are many different spheres, and many different issues, that you have to face on a daily basis; working for an MP you have constituents to help, and a lot of them have quite serious problems; some are

The Caterham School Society

12

Preview is Caterham School’s in-house political journal.

It was set up in 1999 by Will Moy (OC 1991 – 2001), David Bishop (OC 1995 – 2001), Colin Hoad (OC 1991 – 2001), and Alex Steer (OC 1991 – 2001). Their intention from the outset was to create a publication that would include articles by pupils, teachers, and high profile contributors from the world of national and international politics. Equally important was the desire to create a magazine that was essentially run, published, and launched by Sixth Form pupils. The Sixth Form pupils write articles pertaining to current political developments and other issues about which they feel passionate. The launch of the magazine takes place every year in a London venue, and is attended by the Preview team, staff, parents, Old Caterhamians, Old Eothens, and friends of the School. Mr Ben Wright, a senior Westminster correspondent with the BBC, was the guest speaker at the launch of Preview 2017.

homeless, others have serious benefits issues. You’ve also got to keep an eye on national policy, and what’s going on at national and international level. In addition to that, you’ve got the general making sure that your MP is present at key events, meetings, getting sufficient media coverage, and having regular constituent surgeries.

What does your day-to-day work involve?

I do casework, which involves writing letters, not only on housing or benefits issues, but about the refugee crisis, and even the Dangerous Dogs Act! In the last year or so there has definitely been more awareness of politics because of the referendum, and we’ve had a lot more requests for tours of Parliament as a result.

I also do research. For example, if my boss has the farmers coming in for one of his surgeries then I might have to research and write a report on the Common Agricultural Policy, and rural crime.

The main focus of my work is tackling the issues our constituents face.

Do you work nine to five?

My contracted hours are 9.00am to 6.00pm. In non-recess time, I am flexible, so I can work until 6.30pm or 7.00pm; it’s up to me, really. In the summer things are more flexible, and you can take some time out.

How are your French, Spanish, and Hindi language skills useful in your workplace?

Westminster is very English-dominated, so in this job I don’t use my language skills very often.

I used to work for the European Parliament in their London office, so I used to use my French quite a lot; meetings would sometimes be in French, and they would occasionally hold video conferences in French with the Brussels office. Languages are still really important to me, and I use them often in my personal life.

Do you travel often as part of your job?

My MP’s constituency borders Norfolk, Lincolnshire, Peterborough, and south-east Cambridgeshire, and we occasionally go up there, but not very often.

Have you met any famous politicians?

I’ve met Boris Johnson a few times, and seen David Cameron, and Theresa May. I was recently in a lift with Nick Clegg!

What is the make-up of an office in Parliament?

Different offices do things differently, but most MPs have researchers in Parliament who conduct policy research, prepare questions for the MP to ask in the Commons, advise the MP, and brief them. Most MPs 

13

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

The main focus of my work is tackling the issues our constituents face also have a caseworker who looks after constituents’ problems, and probably also have a secretary/diary manager, and an additional parliamentary assistant. Our office does things slightly differently; we have someone focusing on the social media and press side of things, and I focus on casework, research, and policy.

How is the ever-changing nature of politics reflected in the atmosphere of your workplace?

In terms of staff, people are always moving on; I’m invited to a leaving do every month! When there are controversial issues going through Parliament, there’s always a huge increase in contact from constituents.

What opportunities are there in Parliament for young graduates?

There are a lot of internships, though to get one can be very competitive. You need about a year of internships in Parliament or public affairs to get a job as a parliamentary assistant.

Caterhamians should also look at contacting their own local MP for work experience.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to get in to politics?

You need to show that you have an interest in party politics; a great way to show this is by joining a political party and getting involved in a campaign, and keeping up to date with national and international politics. Doing work experience and internships is also really important; W4mp.org advertise political jobs and internships.

You also need to be aware of parliamentary processes, such as how a bill goes through, and what happens at committees. You study these things in politics classes both at school and at university.

Communication skills and creativity are really important, as you meet many different people in this job, and so you need to have empathy for different situations.

I’ve also found a good knowledge of how social media works is very helpful, as lots of MPs are starting to use Instagram!

I suppose this leads me to my last point – being able to multi-task! One minute I’m will be doing casework, the next I’m going on a tour, the next I’m talking to my MP; you need to have a good relationship with your MP, as you work so closely with them.

What do you enjoy most in your career?

Nothing makes me happier than being able to help someone, even if in a very small way, such as helping repair someone’s potholes! We aren’t miracle workers, but we try our best all the time.

Where do you want to take your career in the future?

This job can take me to many places – even out of politics! I would like to go in to public affairs, or communications, or maybe even PR. I don’t want to become a politician, though; it’s very full-on and can have a huge impact on your personal life.

Lastly, what do you think of the OC careers networking events in London?

I really enjoyed the careers event I went to in the summer 2016, and it was really nice to see some familiar faces. It would be really good to see these events grow.

It’s a great network to have for Caterhamians who are looking to move profession, or even get promoted, in a safe environment with other Caterhamians. 

The Caterham School Society

14

People used to think that politics was about middle aged men standing around in suits discussing weighty and complicated issues.

Not anymore

By Toby Cooper, Head of Politics

The world has been rocked by political debates and discussions, which have thrown the world into a period of major flux and ignited great passions on all sides. As the world turns, and more seismic shocks are felt, people begin to ask questions and try to make sense of everything.

In steps the politics teacher.

After another late night of parliamentary debates, and another early morning of news interviews, the politics teacher will enter the classroom in a bid to explain the world, and help pupils to understand what is going on, and why it is happening. Our job is not to impose an ideology and campaign for a party, but to look at the way in which politics operates in the UK, USA, and Europe, and to try to understand the decisions that are made, the positives and negatives of the different political systems, and to speculate about an uncertain future.

The subject is constantly changing, and the politics teacher must spend their time updating all their resources and ideas, as one set of established truths are thrown out, to be replaced by a new set of real, or fake, headlines.

We do this out of love for politics, and a wish to share this passion with our pupils, hoping to enthuse them and engender in them a spirit of involvement in politics.

Many of our pupils will want to find answers, and we will equip them with the skills to do this, through study and enrichment. The best and most enthusiastic pupils will volunteer to be part of the Preview team, and put together their own magazine. Many will look for work experience in the Houses of Parliament, or in the political media, or they will join a campaign to make a difference to the world.

Many of our pupils go on to study politics or international relations at university, and some will go on to a career in politics, while the rest will keep a knowledgeable eye on current affairs.

The world will turn again, the pendulum will swing the other way, but the politics teacher will remain, equipping the next generation of pupils with the skills and enthusiasm to make sense of an ever-changing world.

15

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

MOTORCYCLING:

THE WARR WAY...

WITH JOHN WARR, CURRENT PARENT

John Warr is the managing director of Warr’s HarleyDavidson, Europe’s oldest and biggest selling Harley dealership group. He is a former motorcycle racer, and a qualified helicopter pilot. He lives in Kenley with his wife, Allison, and their two sons, George, who is an Old Caterhamian, and Jack, who is a current pupil.

In this article, John speaks with the editor about what makes Harleys special, nicknames for bikes, and how the only way to travel is by motorcycle.

The Caterham School Society

Do you remember how you felt when you got on your first road motorcycle?

I couldn’t wait for the day I turned sixteen and received my provisional license. When my birthday finally arrived I just got on my bike and rode and rode. It was an amazing sense of freedom then, and still is now.

Have you always been interested in motorcycles, specifically, Harleys?

I must have caught the bug from my dad.

Ask any motorcyclist and he’ll tell you biking is in the blood. We all have our favourite brands, but for me nothing beats a Harley.

What is your favourite Harley, and why?

My current favourite is my new 2017 Milwaukee-Eight Street Glide. I got it in October 2016, and I’ve since been to Germany, France, and Luxembourg through sun, wind, and rain.

I also use it for the commute from Kenley to Chelsea – it’s the only way to travel!

16

Name one reason why, in your opinion, motorcycles are the superior motor vehicle.

They don’t get stuck in traffic.

What makes a good bike for you?

A great big engine with loads of torque, good acceleration, crisp handling, bump cancelling suspension, good luggage capacity for long journeys, and great brakes – sounds just like my Street Glide!

Do you give your bikes nicknames?

No. If on the rare occasion one lets me down I might think of something to call it...

BMW Motorrad, together with Lego Technic, have just realised designs for a hover motorcycle – what do you think about the idea of a flying motorcycle?

I think they may be missing the point. Bikes have wheels and they roll along the ground. That’s half the fun. I’d rather fly a helicopter (and do!). 

17

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

What particularly excites you about racing?

For over ten years I raced bikes from 250cc bikes, to superbikes. One minute you’re hurtling down the main straight at 170mph, shoulder to shoulder with another racer, and the next you’re hanging off the side, leaning the bike right over through a long, fast bend, knee dragging the tarmac, and you can absolutely feel you are on a knife edge between a tiny bit of tyre grip or disaster. The other guy, meanwhile, is still right next to you, handlebar to handlebar, and you’re still in the tuck going as fast as you dare. I miss the thrills but not the spills.

What is the most important thing to remember when riding a motorcycle?

Put your feet down when you come to a stop.

In a 2007 interview you mentioned customs becoming popular – is this still the case?

Customisation is bigger than ever. HarleyDavidsons lend themselves to this genre more than any other bike. Our award winning custom build division ‘King Road Customs’ are solidly-

Warr’s Harley-Davidson dealership on 611 Kings Road SW6 2EL

booked all year to design and build the ultimate bespoke bikes for discerning bikers worldwide.

Jenson Button has had three from us so far!

What is the main trend in your industry right now?

The motorcycle industry is enjoying a ‘golden age’ right now as more and more people are inspired by the freedom and fun biking offers. There is, however, less emphasis nowadays on how fast you can go, and more on how you get there; it’s all about the experience of the ride and journey, so touring bikes and retro styles are big news. Fortunately Harley do both brilliantly!

What do you think was the most pivotal moment in the evolution of Harleys?

In 1909, six years after building their first bike, Bill Harley and the Davidson brothers created their first V-Twin engine in a shed in Milwaukee and put it into one of their beefed-up bicycle frames, and a legend was born! Harley still have V-Twin engines to this day.

The Caterham School Society

Warr’s have two UK showrooms – do you have any plans to expand the business even further?

No business can stand still and, though we are specifically known for our London Harley dealerships, we also have other business interests within the Warr Group that we are always developing. We also have major plans for our King’s Road Harley site in the near future.

Do you see the family line in the business continuing?

The business was started by my grandfather, Captain F. J. Warr, in 1924. My father, Fred, took it over in the late 1940s and I’ve been in charge since the early 1990s. My eldest son, George, went to Caterham and now works in the television industry, while Jack is currently in the Fourth Year at Caterham. They both ride bikes, and I’m sure there’s a good chance Warrs will be involved in the business as it continues to develop for many years to come.

To what do you attribute Warr HarleyDavidson’s 93-year success?

Great staff, great customers, passion for a fabulous and exciting product, great staff, good business sense, and being located in central London. Did I mention great staff?

Do you have any big plans to celebrate 100 years of Warr’s Harley-Davidson?

Our King’s Road dealership site will soon be undergoing a major redevelopment, to be

18

completed in 2019, to make it an even more amazing place to visit. The new landmark building will include our museum, restaurant, bar, and conference facilities. By the time we celebrate our centenary, we’ll be nicely installed and ready to party!

What questions did pupils tend to ask you when you showcased your ‘mobile museum’ at the Caterham School Society Family Day last summer?

We were impressed with the questions asked and the enthusiasm shown when we displayed half a dozen historic bikes from the Warr’s Museum collection; ‘how old is it?’, ‘how fast will it go?’, ‘does the gun actually work on the 1942 WW2 US Army bike?’

We had fun and we hope everyone enjoyed the display. If you haven’t already seen the Warr’s Harley-Davidson Museum, it will be on display at the British Motor Museum in Gaydon on Saturday 24 June.

Finally, what advice would you give budding petrol heads?

Get involved as soon as you can. Discover how the internal combustion engine works then try it out; a good start would be to join the Go Karting club run by Mr Garcia at Caterham School. 

19

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

Inspired by J. K. Rowling’s portrayal of boarding school in the Harry Potter series, Sebastian Wendler (OC 2007 – 2008) joined Caterham School as a boarder in the Lower Sixth. Whilst Caterham, understandably, lacks moving staircases and house ghosts, Sebastian told the editor his time at the School profoundly influenced his future. Read on to find the secret to boarding abroad, to tackling homesickness, and how even Germans think their language is hard!

AN INTERNATIONAL INTERVIEW WITH

Sebastian Wendler

The Caterham School Society

Sebastian, how did you find moving from your home town of Münstertal, to Caterham?

It was a challenge for me to move away from my old school, and live somewhere new, and different. However, I wanted to learn English, knowing that it is one of the most widely-spoken languages in the world, particularly in business, which I, later on, studied at university. I was also influenced heavily by the Harry Potter books, and wanted to find out what life was like in a boarding school.

Caterham’s boarding house is a melting-pot of different cultures, so it was very exciting to live with, and get to know, room-mates from the other side of the world.

Had you travelled abroad much before starting school at Caterham?

I had travelled abroad, but only a few times – I had been to Tanzania before, and was part of a student exchange programme with a French school. Nonetheless, Caterham was my first experience living abroad.

What challenges did you face when you moved from Germany to England?

Germans are used to being pretty direct; we tend to express what we think. For some people, this is seen as aggressive or impolite behaviour. As a German, at the beginning, I was surprised to see some shocked faces when saying something. I had to learn to express my views in a more careful and diplomatic way. Nevertheless, with time, I started to appreciate a more ‘British’ way of communicating, since it is more positive and constructive in the end.

Andrei Grebelski (OC 1997 – 2003), our first Russian boarder, recommended, in the first edition of Omnia, joining clubs to reduce homesickness. What did you do to reduce homesickness when living away from home?

Moving away from home rarely comes without problems, and being homesick is completely normal; I was homesick many times. Yet, when interacting with friends, I quickly forgot my sad mood, and went to play football, or went to the gym. For me, it was important to have German friends around, because they experience the same as you, and I used it as an anchor to remember where I came from. For some people, speaking your mother tongue increases homesickness. For me, it helped reduce it.

20

In what way do you think boarding at Caterham influenced you as a person?

I learnt to speak English fluently, and learnt to study in a more efficient way. I learnt to get along well with pupils from all over the world.

However, the main lesson I learnt was that, if you want to, you can achieve a lot whilst living and studying abroad. It all depends on you. The more you put in, the more you get out. This applies for both school, and extracurricular activities.

Did studying in the English-speaking environment of Caterham affect your German in any way?

I don’t think so. However, seeing the English pupils learning German, I was happy to be a German learning English! German is just way too hard!

What did you do after leaving Caterham in 2008?

After Caterham, I went back to Germany to take the German equivalent of A Levels, Abitur. I went on to study business at university, doing a study period in Madrid, and several internships in the automotive industry.

For my master’s degree, I came back to England, and studied economics in London at Imperial College. Coming back to England was influenced by the very positive experience I had during my year at Caterham School, and I found it helpful when studying, as I already knew what teachers/professors expected of me.

What career path have you taken?

Today, I am working in the automotive industry in Stuttgart. I work in the key account management department of a company selling bumpers, spoilers, and other sorts of polymer products to big manufacturers in Europe and the US. Cars have been my great passion since I was a child.

I believe that, if you want to do work with passion, you have to be enthusiastic about the products you deal with.

Moreover, the automotive industry is very dynamic, and set to change fundamentally in the next decades – moving from combustion engines, to new technologies, and to autonomous driving. Being close to this disruptive change, and seeing how companies adapt to this change, makes working in this industry very interesting. 

21

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

OVER 60S LONDON LUNCH, THURSDAY 27 OCTOBER 2016 The Caterham School Society’s Over 60s’ London Lunch at The Antelope, Sloane Square, on Thursday 27 October was a huge success, with over 30 Old Caterhamians in attendance. The lunch was the first of its kind, and promises to be a regular event in the calendar of events for the coming year. From the sumptuous two-course meal, to the singing of the old School song, Debtors, the OCs enjoyed themselves tremendously.

We look forward to hosting more events of this kind through the Caterham School Society. Any OCs who are interested in attending events please contact Iona Mackay Bulger, Development and Communications Officer (events@caterhamschool.co.uk / tel: 01883 335089).

Iona Mackay Bulger, Development and Communications Officer

OCA NEWS

HONG KONG RECEPTION, FRIDAY 28 OCTOBER 2016 Daniel Gabriele (Principal Deputy Head) and Matthew Godfrey (Deputy Head, External Relations) hosted a reception in Hong Kong on Friday, 28 October 2016, to which all current Caterham parents and pupils, as well as alumni in the area, were invited. Over 60 guests came, and it was a great opportunity to celebrate Caterham’s global community, and to give our overseas parents an update on all School news. It was great to talk to the Old Cats who came, and to hear their fond memories about their time at the School.

Matthew Godfrey, Deputy Head (External Relations)

To find out about forthcoming OCA events contact Eloise Väisänen, Alumni Officer (eloise.vaisanen@ caterhamschool.co.uk / tel: 01883 335091), or visit the OCA social media channels and website.

 OldCats  @oldcaterhamians

 Old Cats  oldcaterhamians.com

The Caterham School Society

22

OCA REUNION FOR THE CLASSES OF 2009 AND 2010, SATURDAY 12 NOVEMBER 2016 It was wonderful to see so many OCs at our informal reunion for the classes of 2009 and 2010 on Saturday 12 November 2016, and to hear about all their news since they left the School (which included news of an engagement!). The PA fireworks display was a fitting addition to the excitement of the evening, as was seeing a number of staff members reunited with former pupils.

Eloise Väisänen, Alumni Officer

OC DAY, SUNDAY 13 NOVEMBER 2016 We were delighted to welcome back a number of Old Caterhamians for a delicious lunch, and exciting rugby and lacrosse matches. The following Old Caterhamians, their guests, and members of staff attended the lunch: 1940s Mrs Elizabeth Macnamara (Eothen 1947 – 1949) Mr David Owens (OC 1942 – 1948) 1950s Mr Colin Bagnall (OC 1949 – 1955) Professor David Hatch (OC 1948 – 1955) Mr Don Mear (OC 1948 – 1955, Foundation member) Mr Robin Rudge (OC 1945 – 1955) Reverend Martin Stevens (OC 1945 – 1954) 1960s Mr Keith Edwards (OC 1956 – 1963) Mr Peter Rainey (OC 1954 – 1964) Dr David Robinson (OC 1958 – 1967) 1970s Mr Karl Dennis (OC 1971 – 1976) Mr Stephen May (OC 1971 – 1976) The Honourable Mr. Justice Graeme Mew (OC 1968 – 1977) 1980s Mrs Mary Whenman (OC 1985 – 1987)

Staff and Former Staff Mr Rob Davey (Former Headmaster) Mr David Rogers (Former staff) Mrs Lilian Rogers (Former staff) Mrs Helen Smith (Spouse of Mr Stephen Smith, Former Headmaster) Miss Hilary Trehane (Former staff) Miss Marie Crick (School Photographer and Videographer) Mr Matthew Godfrey (Deputy Head, External Relations) Mrs Hannah Graydon (Head of Marketing) Mr Ceri Jones (Headmaster) Miss Iona Mackay Bulger (Development and Communications Officer) Reverend Rick Mearkle (School Chaplain) Mrs Eloise Väisänen (Alumni Officer)

23

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

OC DAY, SUNDAY 13 NOVEMBER 2016 SCHOOL V OC LACROSSE MATCH It was a beautiful day to welcome Old Caterhamian lacrosse players back to the School to take on the current senior pupils at lacrosse. Over the past two years, the Old Cats have pulled together a very strong team which, usually, completely dominates the School team.

However, with many sibling rivalries, and an extremely strong first half from the current pupils, this year produced a different result: Caterham had a historic 12-11 win against the Old Cats.

However, the match was very much a tale of two halves; the current pupils faced a strong comeback from the leavers in the second half, making it a very close and competitive encounter. However, the 9-3 lead that the current pupils created in the first half was too much for the Old Cats to make up. Despite showing an excellent effort, the Old Cats eventually ran out of time in the second half, and were unable to tie the score at 12-12. The current pupils did not let a solid second half from the Old Cats affect their play, and showed a strong display of skills throughout the game, which eventually led them to victory.

Ash Flatley (current pupil) was named Person of the Match for the School, and Robyn Hunt-Williams (OC 2001 – 2015) was named Person of the Match for the Old Cats.

A massive thank you to all the Old Cats who returned to play in the match, especially for making the match so exciting!

Current pupils Katie Herbert (School First Team Captain) and Chloe Wyner

OC FINCH’S NETWORKING DRINKS, THURSDAY 17 NOVEMBER 2016 The Henry’s Den snug at Finch’s, Finsbury Square, Moorgate, was buzzing with Old Cats’ networking on Thursday 17 November – for some this was the first time they’d been to an OC event, and certainly not the last, we have been told! Included in the broad range of industries represented on the night were: Digital Communications Drama Education Education consultancy Energy Finance IT Law Politics PR Property

OC DAY, SUNDAY 13 NOVEMBER 2016 RUGBY MATCHES Recent Leavers 24 v School 7 Person of the Match for the School: Aziz Sharif Person of the Match for the Recent Leavers: Josh Coakes (OC 2014 – 2016) President’s XV 29 v Old Cats’ Rugby Club 22 Person of the Match for the President’s XV: Nick Crombie Person of the Match for the Old Cats’ Rugby Club: Ali Taylor (OC)

The Caterham School Society

OCA ANNUAL DINNER, FRIDAY 17 MARCH 2017 Old Cats of all ages attended the OCA Annual Dinner at the RAF Club, Piccadilly, London, on Friday 17 March. Socialising together before the dinner, it was evident that, age apart, Caterham School unites us all. This unity was the theme of Rob Davey’s after-dinner speech, when he spoke for the first time since stepping down as Headmaster of the School in 2007. It was a wonderful evening, and we look forward to next year’s dinner.

“The dinner was a great opportunity to catch up with old friends and teachers in a great environment. Rob Davey’s speech was fantastic and showed just how much the school has developed since the nineties”.

OC Sebastian Raaff (OC 2001 – 2008) Eloise Väisänen, Alumni Officer

24

The following Old Caterhamians in attendance at the 2017 OCA Annual Dinner were: David Owens (OC 1942 – 1948) Colin Bagnall (OC 1949 – 1955) Don Mear (OC 1948 – 1955) Denis Tindley (OC 1947 – 1955) David Brown (OC 1953 – 1959) Andrew Brown (OC 1953 – 1962) David Charlesworth (OC 1959 – 1964) Ian Edwards (OC 1965 – 1972) Gill Simpson (Eothen 1963 – 1972) Paul Sharp (OC 1963 – 1972) Jeremy Joiner (OC 1964 – 1973) Jay Pearson (OC 1966 – 1973) John Riches (OC 1970 – 1974) Nigel Moseley (OC 1968 – 1975) Mark Simpson (OC 1969 – 1975) Stephen May (OC 1971 – 1976) David McCallum (OC 1976 – 1980) Andrew Raymant (OC 1975 – 1981) Christopher Rose (OC 1971 – 1981) Kim Davies (OC 1977 – 1985) Mark Ingarfield (OC 1980 – 1985) Simon Merry (OC 1982 – 1985) Michael Sinclair (OC 1978 – 1985) Mark Sparrow (OC 1980 – 1985) Sarah Tindley (OC 1983 – 1985) Mark Webb (OC 1978 – 1987) Mary Whenman (OC 1985 – 1987) Nicholas Bryers (OC 1980 – 1988)

INFORMAL LONDON LUNCHES In January this year, Bob Fairall (OC 1962 – 1971) wrote to the alumni office to tell them about the occasional London reunions organised by Russell Jones (OC 1963 – 1971). The below photo shows, clockwise from the head of table, the following OCs from the class of 1971: John Huddleston Bob Fairall Malcolm Stewart Richard Tittle Kevin Hawkins Nicholas Munns Paul Armstrong Peter Dickens Paul Tallett Victor Churchill

Andrei Grebelski (OC 1997 – 2003) Marcus Bott (OC 1997 – 2008) Felix Bungay (OC 2003 – 2008) Stuart Connick (OC 1999 – 2008) Samir Dwesar (OC 2001 – 2008) Nick Harding (OC 2001 – 2008) Alex Johnson (OC 2001 – 2008 Matthew Lunn (OC 2001 – 2008) Sebastian Raaff (OC 2001 – 2008) Hugh Allan (OC 2004 – 2012) Ross Bennington (OC 2004 – 2012) Nathan Brown (OC 2007 – 2012) Daniel Chaney (OC 2010 – 2012) Sam Clarke (OC 2004 – 2012) Callum Connolly (OC 1998 – 2012) Benjamin Dillon (OC 2006 – 2012) Dougie McClumpha (OC – 2012) Alexander Penny (OC – 2012) George Woodhouse (OC 2007 – 2012) Cesci Adams (OC 2008 – 2015) Ollie Hull (OC 2010 – 2015) Jack Medlock (OC 2009 – 2016) Rhia Patel (OC 2011 – 2016) Richard Webb (OC 2009 – 2016) David Clark, Former teacher Rob Davey, Former Headmaster Ceri Jones, Current Headmaster Michael Lesser, Former teacher David Rogers, Former teacher Lilian Rogers, Former boarding matron Cathriona Wallace, Current teacher of business studies and economics Mark Wallace, Former boarding master

25

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

OC SPORTS AFTERNOON, SUNDAY 19 MARCH 2017 Despite a dull-looking sky early on in the afternoon on Sunday 19 March, the weather improved to bring a brighter, albeit chilly, afternoon of football, hockey, and netball. The OCs played valiantly in all matches, with a particularly exciting sudden-death play at the end of the School 2nd VII v Old Caterhamians hockey match.

Unfortunately, it was only the hockey that proved to be a victory for the OCs, with the School dominating the scoreboards in all other matches.

RESULTS Netball School 1st VII 24 v 2016 Leavers 15 School 2nd VII 22 v Old Caterhamians 18 Football School U18 XI 8 v Old Caterhamians 2 Hockey School 2nd VII 2 v Old Caterhamians 3

Eloise Väisänen, Alumni Officer

OC BOARDERS’ REUNION, SATURDAY 25 MARCH 2017 As our boarders’ reunion last year, the 2017 reunion was a great success – the Henry’s Den snug of Finch’s, Finsbury Square, abuzz with smiles and animated conversation. Mr Mills, Mrs Paine, and Ms Dodwell came along to share fond memories and laughter with members of their boarding family. We’re looking forward to next year’s reunion already!

Eloise Väisänen, Alumni Officer

OCs: IN THEIR OWN WORDS

The Caterham School Society

26

WILLIAM PAXTON (OC 2010 – 2015): Having left Caterham in 2015, I am currently midway through my second year at Birmingham University studying English literature. Caterham School really helped me come out of my shell, and performing in the School’s musicals was always the highlight of every academic year.

I have continued to nurture my interest in musical theatre by joining the Guild Musical Theatre Group at Birmingham University. A particular highlight was performing in an original musical at the Edinburgh Fringe; it was a tough, yet rewarding experience, with a two-week, sold-out run that really tested my acting and singing ability. However, the professional, and fun, environment of Caterham’s musical theatre really equipped me for those performances.

JEAN HARWOOD, NÉE HARVEY (Eothen 1938 – 1949): I left Eothen School in 1949 and went straight to Pitmans Secretarial College. I worked as a secretary to the company secretary of two diamond mines, and two copper mines, until I married in 1956. I then worked for a solicitor in Croydon until my first son was born. In recent years, I have worked for Southern Water Authority, and the National Rivers Authority.

MARTIN STEVENS (OC 1945 – 1954): My wife, Ann, and I have four adult children; Rachel is in catering, Jonathan is a paediatrician, Deborah is a lawyer, and Rebecca travels in carpet sales. We have eight grandchildren.

We have served in the Anglican ministry in widely different parishes, beginning on Scotswood Road in Newcastle, then continuing in suburban South Croydon.

This was followed by five years representing a small Irish Anglican mission in England, involving some visits to Northern Ireland during The Troubles. Then followed eleven years in industrial Tyneside (Felling, Gateshead), which included the winter of discontent (1978 – 1979).

After this we moved to London, where we joined the ministry of a church in Belgravia. Our final ministry was in rural Devon, during years which covered the foot and mouth crisis. This all involved some culture shocks in both directions!

We live now in Warwick, a somewhat quieter setting, where the political rows are mostly about issues such as road humps!

Andrei Grebelski’s interview in the Autumn/Winter 2016 edition of Omnia caused me some amusement; School had not changed entirely by his time there! There were no computers in our day; the common room (no. 5) had one radio/record player, and whoever got there first monopolised it. This was usually one R. S. Davies, who was mad on jazz – too bad for those who did not like it!

Andrei did not like the lunches – neither did we at Mottrams – too much suet pudding!

The OCA would love to hear news from Caterhamians.

Please do contact Eloise Väisänen, Alumni Officer (eloise.vaisanen@ caterhamschool.co.uk / tel: 01883 335091) to share your news and memories of your time at the School.

27

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

SEB JEFFERY (OC 2001 – 2006): After leaving Caterham, I studied for a bachelor’s degree in sociology at the University of Kent. Criminology was a field that had fascinated me during my bachelor’s degree, and I had wanted to study it in more depth, which is why I then went on to study it for my Master’s degree at the University of Cambridge. One of the many highlights of my master’s degree was that I got to visit HMP Highpoint in Suffolk, a category C men’s prison. Along with some other students on my course, as part of our research at the prison, we interviewed prison officers, and governors, as well as prisoners, to compare, and contrast, what they had to say about contemporary prison life. Briefly speaking, the results showed that prison staff members had a far more positive view on prison life than the prisoners, which was an interesting, if not unsurprising outcome. I met many colourful characters inside the prison and, whilst some people may find the idea of sitting face to face with an attempted murderer quite daunting, I found it fascinating to understand the motivation he had for committing the crimes that he did, and how he was coping with being incarcerated for such a huge part of his life.

After leaving university, I spent a year at a marketing agency, where I was dealing with various global tech clients, such as IBM and Oracle. However, it became apparent to me that marketing was not the correct career path for me. I wanted to utilise the skills and knowledge

that I had gained from my degrees, so I decided to join Surrey Police as a compliance and investigation officer.

My job involves investigating various low-level crimes, such as shopliftings, and thefts, by analysing CCTV or using some of the other investigative tools that are available to the police. Since I can also speak fluent Polish, I also help with translating for officers, so my job is not entirely desk-based, and I do get to go out and help with incidents in real-time too.

Between November 2016 and February 2017, I was working at Caterham Police Station. It was lovely to be back in Caterham after a ten year absence, and made me feel very nostalgic about my time as a Caterham School pupil!

The most satisfying part of working for the police is being able to help victims (especially victims who have been in very tough situations), and giving victims a sense of closure after a positive outcome.

There are thousands of positions within the police, including being a helicopter pilot, 999 call handler, and intelligence researcher – all of which require a variety of skills and experience. I would recommend joining the police to anyone who is considering it.

Most parts of the police operate outside of a nine to five schedule (for example, last year, for the first time ever, I had to work on Christmas Day!), which can take some getting used to, but it is hugely rewarding.

DAVID WALTERS (OC 1946 – 1952):

SACHA KILNER, NÉE RUSSELL (OC 1998 – 2005):

My wife and I have recently moved from Doncaster.

My wife has severe vascular dementia and, during 2016, I was diagnosed with lymphoma (a form of blood cancer), so our son and his wife set about looking for a house for us nearer to them. Fortunately, he was able to buy the house next door to his, so we now live as an extended family, but each with our own space. We have a live-in carer who provides wonderful support.

My main hobbies over the last few years have been local history, gardening, gliding, and membership of Probus. Once I have got over my chemotherapy I will certainly join the local Probus clubs. I will have to do some gardening, and I already have a local history project planned. Gliding? Well, that’s less certain.

Perhaps as I approach 82 it is time to leave it to the younger generation – we shall see!

I married Vincent Kilner (OC 1998 – 2005) in 2014. Vincent and I got together in the summer of 2005, although we attended different universities. We spent three months together in New Zealand (NZ) in 2008 where we gained our NZSIA Level 1 and 2 ski instructor qualifications.

Vinnie joined Mace Group in 2008 on our return from NZ, and is now an associate director there, managing a number of retail clients, including Tiffany and Co., and Adidas. I joined Ernst and Young in 2010, and qualified with ACCA in 2014. I am now a senior executive working in restructuring. Vinnie and I welcomed our first son, Austin, into the world on Friday 18 November 2016.

CHARLOTTE LEWIS (OC 1999 – 2006): I teach primary school children, and lead mathematics at my current school. In August 2017, I’m starting a new opportunity, and relocating to Abu Dhabi where I will be teaching at Cranleigh School’s new site over there.

The Caterham School Society

28

ELLIOT HALL (OC 2015 – 2016): Since leaving Caterham in July 2015, I have been studying sports science with management at Loughborough University. I am really enjoying my course, and Loughborough is the perfect university for me, particularly as I am so passionate about my sport.

I have changed my focus from rugby union, which I had played most of life, to rugby league – which my grandfather played for Australia from 1948 to 1956. I am very proud to have recently been selected in the 33-man, train-on squad to represent England in the Student Rugby League World Cup in Sydney in July this year.

The tournament is held every four years, making it a once in a lifetime experience, and not something that many rugby league players can say they have done, let alone go to Australia, a country where rugby league is so popular. If selected for the squad, I’m really looking forward to competing at the highest level of student rugby league.

It is the responsibility of the players and staff of the team to raise funds for their participation. To find out more about how you can help Elliot, please contact Eloise Väisänen, Alumni Officer (eloise.vaisanen@ caterhamschool.co.uk / tel: 01883 335091).

TOBY BRYANT (OC 1955 – 1964):

ALISON CRUTHERS, NÉE HARDIE (OC 1983 – 1985):

What a great article about Caterham Cars in the first edition of Omnia! My first memories of them were in 1965 when working in our shop in Croydon Road (R. J. Bryant School Outfitters).

Almost every day there would be a loud noise and an original Lotus Seven would rocket past on a test drive. If I am right, Caterham Cars were the first suppliers of Lotus Sevens outside Hethel, Norfolk, where the Lotus factory was located.

By the way, the cars were nearly always British racing green with a yellow nose!

I have been a qualified veterinary surgery for over 25 years and currently work 3.5 days per week at a practice in Kingston, Surrey. I’m married with three children aged 11-17 who go to schools near our home in Thames Ditton. My brother Tim (OC 1983 – 1986) is still in Canada.

I’m still in regular touch with a few Caterham alumni, such as Richard Steele, Olly Coleman, and Giles Pearman, and hear about quite a few via Facebook. I enjoyed the ‘All the Fives’ OC reunion in 2015, and was amazed to see the changes at the School.

BERNARD GRIFFITHS (OC 1938 – 1945): Since my last report, we moved (in 2012) to a retirement flat in Botley, a village in South Hampshire. We are both keeping fit, but do not drive as far as we used to do. My cousin, Denis Ward (OC 1933 – 1941) died last year. I am the residents’ elected representative and, for the first half of last year, had to step in and keep the scheme ticking over in the gap between one scheme manager, and the next being appointed.

DAVID ‘BRUCE’ PROVAN (OC 1962 – 1967): I’m writing in with a plea for help! A few years ago a fellow pupil borrowed my team photographs for a ‘This is Your Life’ event, yet these photographs never made their way back to me.

At the time, I wasn’t too bothered, but now I have two grandchildren I feel they might enjoy seeing the old photos. If anyone has photos which include me I would be grateful for copies. I would, of course, pay costs of copying and postage. I was at the School from 1962 – 1967, and represented the School in rugby, swimming, athletics, and cross-country.

Thank you for any help! Please contact Eloise Väisänen, Alumni Officer (eloise.vaisanen@caterhamschool.co.uk / tel: 01883 335091) if you can help Bruce.

(ALAN) BRIAN SETH-SMITH (OC 1936 – 1945): Having retired from surgery (general and orthopaedic) in 1991, I am fortunately in good health, and active. I have a son and daughter in London, a daughter in Kent, and six grandchildren, aged from seventeen to twenty-two years old.

My Caterham friends, in particular John Elliott and Peter Gibbs, have all passed on, except for Derek Down, who keeps in touch.

29

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

ROBIN RUDGE (OC 1945 – 1955):

PHIL CURTIS (OC 1995 – 2005):

When I was finishing as a pupil at the School in 1955, I managed to get enough O Levels to use my A Level in Art to defy my father and get in to the art school, then in Reigate, about which my mother had heard. Mr Leathem asked me what an art school did, but I didn’t know, till I experienced the ecstasy of no longer being forced to study there! Nobody told me to opt to study graphic design (called commercial art) which was used, broadly, in selling products, as well as book-illustration, while I was painting figures and portraits, and making prints from engraving woodblocks. In long retrospect, I cannot complain about this error, because it led to my becoming a school art teacher, which never in a million years my boyhood could have predicted.

Following the four years at Reigate, I was one term at the Royal Academy Schools, but left because I wasn’t learning anything, and also needed a teachers’ certificate, which I then obtained from Bristol University Institute of Education, coupled with the West of England College of Art diploma. No degrees in fine art were given then, except by Reading and Durham, but we were paid as graduates. This was 1961!

After two state school short posts, I then spent 25 happy years at Newcastle Cathedral School on Tyneside despite Mr Milnes’ advice to stay no longer than seven years! I was involved in environmental studies and music, but retired at 50 to see my parents in to their 90s. I am just 79 and still making pictures, singing, playing, and writing.

My girlfriend, Rachel, and I took a gap year to travel the world – about ten years later than people normally do!

We explored South America, New Zealand, and Australia, then southeast Asia. It was a phenomenal year that fully justified our decision to take the opportunity when we did.

Since returning, I am now working as a health coach, helping people to get in the best shape of their life for the rest of their life, by developing healthy habits and lifestyles. I absolutely love what I do, and am on the verge of launching my brand new website. And, yes, I do still think Anne Collins’ PE notes help!

I’m now truly in the phase of my life I like to call ‘adulting’, with hopes to get on the property ladder as soon as possible. In the meantime, I’ve been reconnecting with a few OCs, and it’s been brilliant to rekindle some former friendships. Wishing everyone well!

WEDDINGS

BIRTHS

Congratulations to: Shaocheng Ma (OC 2008 – 2010) and Stephanie Ye Chen (OC 2011 – 2013) who got married on Saturday 31 December 2016 in Shanghai.

Congratulations to Olivia Mew (OC 2003 – 2005) and her husband, Nicholas Knowles, who welcomed a baby girl, Hanna Grey Knowles, on Monday 19 December 2016.

Matthew Turner (OC 2001 – 2008) and Lily Smith (OC 2006 – 2008) who got married on Saturday 6 August 2016 in Nutfield, Surrey.

GRADUATIONS

Shaocheng Ma and Stephanie Ye Chen

Matthew Turner and Lily Smith

Congratulations to Thomas Rady (OC – 2013) who graduated in 2016 from the University of Southampton with a BSc in Biology.

The Caterham School Society

30

Our strong sense of community and responsibility towards each other extends well beyond the school’s boundaries with a shared commitment amongst staff and pupils to play our part in the world and learn from the experience

PARTNERSHIPS Pupils are actively involved in supporting local, regional and global initiatives through volunteering, charity work, and collaborative projects. Our pupils gain perspective and begin to define their societal responsibilities.

Tanzania, Leranga’ wa

31

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

Caterham School is proud to be actively engaged in partnerships, educational initiatives and projects with other schools in the UK and abroad

Our Partnerships Our Hockey Academy Manager, Peter Friend, runs several Hockey partnership programmes between Caterham and local primary Schools including Wray Common Primary School and Hillcroft Primary, to name a few, who attended a hockey taster session at the School this year.

We have been a driving force behind the foundation of the London Academy of Excellence (LAE) Sixth Form College in Stratford, East London, an area where sixth form academic opportunities were previously limited. Teachers and pupils across the two institutions support each other with regular visits and collaborations.

We also support Kingsford Community School in Becton and other local schools in and around Caterham. Students from Caterham conduct work experience at Kingsford every year assisting with the delivery of lessons, and helping with the organisation and conduct of sports days and educational visits.

This year a group of our Fourth Years have formed a young enterprise company in partnership with pupils from De Stafford School. They have successfully set up a company selling stationery products in the local school population.

Pupils from Clifton Hill School (a Surrey school for young people with severe and profound learning difficulties and autism) come to our sports hall to participate in sporting activities and games planned and carried out by our lower sixth students.

During the summer term, our students organise the Clifton Hill sports day here at Caterham.

Lower Sixth pupils have visited Lerang’ wa primary school in rural Tanzania annually for the last ten years. Our students conduct lessons in English, music, sport and art working in collaboration with the Lerang’ wa teachers. Money raised in our school community has been used to improve the infrastructure at the school; building staff accommodation, a kitchen and toilets for the students amongst other things. We currently support the Lerang’ wa students by raising money to supplement their diet.

We have recently formed a partnership with the casa Xalteva educational shelter in Nicaragua. A group of our students visited the shelter in 2016, living in the community, practicing their Spanish and contributing to the educational activities.

Money raised at Caterham will be used to sponsor one of their first generation of residents who is progressing to university.

She will be in regular touch with our Spanish students.

We have a long standing partnership with the Western Reserve Academy School in Ohio, USA. Annually a group of students engage in an exchange program with our students hosting the Americans for two weeks in the summer term, and then visiting Ohio in the ‘fall’. The trip takes on a political flavour as the group visit Washington and have privileged access to one of the Ohio senator’s offices. 

The Caterham School Society

Partnership activities provide opportunities to our pupils to use their talents, and develop their personal qualities for the benefit of others

Clifton Hill School

Hockey Partnership programme

London Academy of Excellence (LAE)

If you would like to get involved with any of our partnerships, or hear more, please do not hesitate to get in touch with Mr Anthony Fahey, Senior teacher in charge of Partnerships and Charities: anthony.fahey@ caterhamschool.co.uk

casa Xalteva educational shelter, Nicaragua

32

33

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

A

By OC Ashley Pollak

merican dreams, cookies, nanotechnology: no subject is too big, or small, for the curious minds at etio, OC Ashley Pollak’s (OC 1993 – 1998) video production agency, founded in 2010. etio creates their work with passion and purpose, making films that not only look great, but which also achieve measurable business goals. Read on to find out more about Ashley’s vision through video.

I studied history, art, and business for A Level at Caterham I chose the three furthest most north universities in the country, with Napier University (as it was then) as my first choice. I wanted to move somewhere completely different to experience a life that was a real change from living in London.

My art education at Caterham was very broad Whether it was installation art, video art, or experimenting with computers, Mrs Kyle helped open my eyes as to what was possible creatively. I am certain it was this that put me in good stead when I went to art school and then film school. At Caterham I always felt

a sense of community and acceptance – I felt respected for my strengths, rather than judged on my weaknesses.

I feel my career has quite a clear link back to my studies I have a combination of video production, advertising, and marketing experience, and have a Foundation Art Degree from Ravensbourne Art College, and a BA (Hons) in Photography, Film, and Television from what is now Screen Academy Scotland. I chose Ravensbourne because of the facilities they had and the vocational approach they took to art. I started my career in advertising at Grey London as a graduate trainee, and then moved to Wunderman, and subsequently went into contract and freelance work. 

The Caterham School Society

34

CAPTURING CURIOSITY

35

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

At etio we ask “why?” a lot This curiosity is part of what I think makes us different from other video production companies; we’re really interested in understanding how an audience interacts with video content, and how stories can be used to change behaviour. The name etio was something I came up with at university to put on my student projects. I discovered it in a thesaurus.

I started etio as a way of creating a job role which played to my strengths I’ve always been entrepreneurial, and both my parents are selfemployed. Through etio I wanted to create employment for myself. I didn’t want to rely on working freelance, either. I was concerned that I would be just waiting for the phone to ring.

I liked the idea of having more

On the set of a TV ad for Lloyds Pharmacy

I need to be excited by a project. I also thrive on discovering new stories in the commercial world and finding creative ways to tell them

control over my own destiny, even if, as I later found out, that meant a year of knocking on doors and cold-calling to get our first big break.

Eighteen months ago we opened our office, and took on our first staff member etio has grown by building strong relationships with the people with whom we work on projects. Now, we have three full-time employees, one part-time employee, and fifteen freelancers (depending on the project).

The biggest challenge over the last year and a half of running my own business has been the practicalities That’s why the most important thing about owning and maintaining your own business is being resilient, as you need to be determined to get

The Caterham School Society

through the bad times. Having a good idea is a start, and understanding the market for your product is essential, but resilience and self-belief are the most important in running your own business.

I need to be excited by a project I also thrive on discovering new stories in the commercial world and finding creative ways to tell them.

That’s why I enjoy what I do now so much, as it allows me to learn about new things. For example, when we filmed for the London Centre of Nanotechnology I bought a book Nanotech for Dummies, so I could get a deeper understanding of the topic before jumping in with a camera.

36

I like different projects we’ve done for different reasons.

For example, our recent project for the British Museum was about selling culture, rather than a tangible product, which is what we mostly focus on. On top of that, we also got to work with a really talented, award-winning animator!

Everyone has the tools to make great content on their computer or phone Try an idea, fail a few times, set up a YouTube channel. Get out there and do it. It’s that enthusiasm and passion which will make you stand out as you try to get your first work opportunities in the creative industry. 

etio proje ct fo ht tps://goo r Wyevale Garden Centres: .gl/AaUAK q

seum r the British Mu etio project fo ition: hib ex m’ ea Dr ‘American /Jg5 PM k ht tps://goo.gl

etio projec t for Lon don Overground: htt ps://goo.gl/AEvzV d

37

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

TACKLING YOUR ASSUMPTIONS:

PLAYING RUGBY FOR SPAIN

BY OC MATT FOULDS

OC Matt Foulds (OC 2005 – 2009) has competed with, not one, but two serious injuries since starting out as a professional rugby player in 2009, and requiring more than a year of painful physical rehabilitation.

Nevertheless, four years on, he’s playing for Spain, and set his sights on the World Cup in Japan in 2019.

Read on, and be inspired by his story...

I loved all sports for as long as I can remember It’s something I took to very easily when I was younger.

I’m not completely sure why I chose rugby, other than it’s such a big sport in my family, and heading down to Warlingham RFC every weekend (which had such a great minis section) I guess my love of rugby all started from there.

In my first year at Caterham I started playing rugby in the B team I always preferred playing team sports, as winning (and losing!) as part of a team is a really unique feeling.

For me, rugby is the best of those team sports, and was the sport I was best at growing up.

At school I played number 8, and nowadays I play number 6 What originally drew me to play these positions was the fact that you get to be involved in the game a lot in both attack and defence. Also, as most people know, rugby is a game for all shapes and sizes – there is a position for everyone on the field. For my body shape and athletic ability, a place in the back row was always calling.

The Caterham School Society

38

Now my main goal with Spain is to reach the World Cup in Japan 2019

My fondest memory of playing rugby at Caterham may seem a strange one It was our first team’s loss at home to John Fisher in the Daily Mail Cup. It was a great game to be involved in and, despite the fact that we lost, we played really well. The main highlight of playing rugby since has been facing the Tongan version of the Haka, the Sipi Tau. I suffered two big injuries at the start of my rugby career I started my rugby career as soon as I left Caterham, and went to Canterbury Academy in New Zealand. I had two fantastic years there, but not everything went my way on the rugby field. My first injury was a broken leg, and the second was a dislocated shoulder. With the broken leg I was out of rugby for about eight months and, after a while, the shoulder required reconstructive surgery, which also needed eight months of rehabilitation before I could start playing again. Thankfully, I had some help from some great physiotherapists with both injuries, and who helped me a lot with my recovery, both physically and mentally.

I met some great people in New Zealand One of those people became a rugby agent, and started talking to clubs on my behalf, which is when I took a contract in the north of Spain at a club called Gernika.

I played there for two seasons and then moved on to my current club, El Salvador, which is based in a city called

Valladolid. I qualify to play for Spain under the residency rule (living in Spain for a minimum of 3 years). After my second season in Spain, and hearing about the chance of potentially playing international rugby, I set myself a goal of making the team.

My favourite player growing up was Martin Johnson It wasn’t really to do with how he played, but more to do with his strong character and style of leadership.

I train four times a week on the field with my current team We also have a game on Sunday, and have three to four gym sessions during the week. Nutrition is another very important component of training. I find keeping my weight up quite difficult due to the amount of training we do, so I eat very regularly, with most meals including big portions of meat, carbs, and vegetables. With rugby being a sport where strength and size are big factors, taking supplements which aid muscle growth, such as protein, is essential.

To play rugby professionally you should focus on pre-habilitation exercises in the gym Trying to maintain fitness in rugby is becoming increasingly challenging, especially as the players are getting bigger and stronger, and the impacts are getting harder. I also believe a hard worker will always get further than a guy with talent. 

39

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

A PRIVATE VIEW:

PUBLIC RELATIONS

The Caterham School Society

WITH OC MARY WHENMAN

I

t’s an industry often connected with celebrities, big brands, and even crises, but how do you become a public relations (PR) consultant? OC, and OCA Vice-President, Mary Whenman (OC 1985 – 1987) tells the editor exactly how, and why, you should consider a career in PR.

Mary, what is PR really about?

Public relations and communications is about promoting companies, brands, products, and people. It is also about protecting their reputation when things go wrong. It can range from launching the latest Apple iPhone to media and social influencers, to mounting a public affairs campaign against the third runway at Heathrow, or promoting Caterham School to prospective parents.

What subjects did you study at A Level?

I studied business studies at A Level and was taught by the unforgettable Mr Markham, who was also the Housemaster of Aldercombe. My time at Caterham taught me two things. First, it taught me resilience. Being one of only 21 girls in a sixth form of around 150 boys might sound great on paper; however, the reality meant you needed to hold your own, and stick up for yourself even when things seemed intimidating. 

40

41

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

The second life lesson I learned was the importance of spotting, and taking, opportunities. I came to Caterham via the then Conservative government’s Assisted Places Scheme, which opened up the world of Caterham to me.

I decided fairly early on that I wanted to study for a degree in business studies. I planned to go to Aston or UMIST but didn’t do as well in my A Levels as hoped. The fantastic Mrs Kearney got me a place through clearing at Bournemouth. If I hadn’t gone there, I’d never have met my husband, or had my three sons. Instead, I’d be living another, parallel, ‘sliding doors’ life. The moral of the story is not all bad results have an unhappy ending!

What inspired you to go in to PR? During my teens I was fascinated with advertising and remember asking for a book about the Guinness adverts as a Speech Day prize. I looked into a career in advertising and discovered PR. During the Sixth Form I talked my way into a careers day at the Chartered Institute of Public Relations that was aimed at graduates. I loved it and decided at 17 years old that I wanted a career in PR. What has kept you in the corporate world?

I’ve followed a career in corporate communications as it’s so intellectually challenging and stimulating. Managing corporate reputation is top of the business agenda so is in high demand. I also specialise in crisis management, which means you end up working on very complex, often highly emotive, business issues.

What advice would you give people aspiring to careers in PR? To get into PR nowadays you need to do three things well: 1. At university, build your personal brand, and engage and be seen online by the key influencers and leaders in the industry.

Develop a strong social media profile.

Write a blog, produce a vlog, and become a social influencer.

2. Network at the free professional development events the industry puts on, and talk to people face to face.

3. Have a strong passion for, and interest in, current affairs, politics, brands, or celebrity.

If you aren’t interested in the news agenda, then PR is not for you, especially as you’ll be grilled on it at interview.

ASPIRING TO A CAREER IN PR? AT UNIVERSITY BUILD YOUR PERSONAL BRAND, ENGAGE AND BE SEEN ONLINE...

The Caterham School Society

Is there a particular trait, or traits, between you and your colleagues?

We tend to be full of curiosity and ask ‘why?’ a lot. We are optimists; the glass is always half-full and anything is possible, including the impossible!

We have very good communication skills.

We are resilient; it’s not a career for the faint-hearted, as we work hard, at pace, to very short, often unrealistic, deadlines, and are only a phone call or email away from somebody shouting at us for something that’s happened, or not happened!

We also have the unusual trait of having a strong gut feel about public sentiment, as we are often responding to, or helping shape, public opinion.

What would you say is the cardinal rule when working in such a fast-paced profession?

Pay attention! Always think a step ahead.

Keep your head when things go wrong and find solutions to problems.

Women in PR is a wonderful initiative – how did it come about?

Women in PR is a not-for-profit networking group for senior and mid-career women working in PR in the UK. We advocate getting more women into boardroom roles, addressing the gender pay gap, and developing the pipeline of talented women through a mentoring programme.

Three years ago I was approached by the CEO and chair of my industry trade association who asked me to stand for president. The organisation needed modernising, and they thought I was the woman to do it! This year we won a Stevie Award for Women in Business.

42

Women in PR’s strapline is ‘inspiring women to reach their full potential’.

This, of course, works not only for women in PR, but in the workplace in general.

What one piece of advice do you think is most important for people in the workplace to follow?

It can’t be limited to just one! Here’s four: 1. Find a career you love, as you could be doing it for up to 40 years. You’ll also work harder, and progress faster, if you love your job.

2. Be brave and take risks. Save the comfortable pair of career slippers for your 50s.

3. Work abroad.

4. Enjoy your 20s at work. It all gets terribly serious once you reach your 30s and 40s, so make sure you have some good times to look back on!

What inspired you to give up your time to the Old Caterhamians’ Association (OCA)?

I have good memories of Caterham School, and it gave me a great opportunity in life. I happened to be on LinkedIn when Graeme Mew posted that he was looking for more committee members. This coincided with us moving to Oxted after 20 years of living in London. It seemed like a good way to get back into the local community.

Why do you think more people – young people in particular – should get involved in the OCA? It’s a great way to keep in touch, or get back in touch, with your old school friends, and there are events for everybody, from sport, networking drinks, dinners, reunions and, this year, beach rugby! It’s your OCA, so you can make it whatever you want it to be. 

The fantastic Mrs Kearney got me a place through clearing at Bournemouth. If I hadn’t gone there, I’d never have met my husband, or had my three sons

43

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

CATERHAM CURRENTLY

GRAND OPENING OF THE CENTRE FOR PERFORMING ARTS The Centre for Performing Arts was officially opened by film and theatre actor and director, Simon Callow CBE, on Thursday 6 October 2016.

Mr Callow carried the audience through a highly amusing and entertaining review of his early acting career, which began with a three-page letter to Sir Laurence Olivier. Amongst the special guests attending the event were the Deayton family, who were there to celebrate the opening of the Deayton Theatre, one of the performance spaces within The Centre for Performing Arts. The Deayton Theatre is named after Mr Roger Deayton, Old Caterhamian and former chair of trustees, whose tenure included the original fundraising campaign for the Humphreys Theatre.

Hannah Graydon, Head of Marketing and Communications

HELEN SHARMAN WOWS CATERHAM SCHOOL We were proud to welcome the distinguished British astronaut and scientist Helen Sharman OBE to our School on Thursday 13 October 2016. Her audience was gripped as she explained complex science in an accessible and inspiring way; she also peppered her talk with anecdotes about life in space! We invited Year 5 and 6 pupils from all local prep and primary schools to come and listen to her afternoon speech – and over 400 of them came! Over 300 parents and pupils came to her talk in the evening, which was wonderful. This major event did not disappoint and left all who came in awe of space and the possibilities of space exploration.

Matthew Godfrey, Deputy Head (External Relations

The Caterham School Society

CCF RECRUITS’ CAMP 2016: ST MARTIN’S PLAIN, FOLKESTONE Seventy cadets from four year groups made their way to Folkestone in the middle weekend of the half-term break in October 2016 for the unit’s annual October camp. With the UK now free from the EU’s arbitrary weather directives, the sun was free to shine brightly for three days, giving the perfect setting for a busy training programme. Aware that the Lord maketh His sun to rise on the evil and on the good, the Third Year recruits were quickly set to work building their field-craft knowledge through CQB lanes, and fire and movement in preparation for exercise ‘Wet Feet’ on Saturday evening – an escape and evasion exercise in the face of the perennial threat of the villainous enemy, Syrian Dawn.

On Sunday, the recruits returned to the area for exercises in stalking and navigation, and to renew an ongoing battle between their boots and a putrid bog, whose result was never really in doubt. The evening offered their first chance to fire live on the range, an exercise in night noises, and a chance to practise public speaking in lecturettes, the topics of which ranged from dabbing, to Donald Trump’s hair.

In a flash, it was Monday, and time for the fiercelycontested inter-section Coke Can Challenge; after competitions in drill, on the DCCT range and on the obstacle course, it was 2 Section who emerged victorious.

Well done to all the new recruits who held up marvellously during this exhausting baptism of fire to military life, and, as ever, to their stalwart Sixth Form NCOs who ran more or less the whole show.

44

DAVID ROGERS’ TALK Friday 11 November 2016 The School was delighted to host a talk by David Rogers, who taught mathematics at the School from 1969 to 2006. There was a full house listening to David speak about the evolution of Caterham School over the past 60 years, which included presentations of the School’s uniform through the ages, and a choir of OCs singing the former School song Debtors.

A copy of the video recording of David’s talk can be obtained by contacting Iona Mackay Bulger, Development and Communications Officer (iona.mackay-bulger@ caterhamschool.co.uk / tel: 01883 335089).

Iona Mackay Bulger, Development and Communications Officer

Lt Mathew Owen, (OC 1994 – 2004)

GB ATHLETE VISITS CATERHAM We were delighted to welcome GB athlete, Richard Buck, to Caterham in November 2016. Richard represented team GB in both the Beijing and London Olympics, and is an international indoor gold medallist with the 4x400m team. He spoke with several groups of pupils, including Year Six from the Prep School, giving an overview of what characteristics are needed to succeed at the highest level.

His message of determination, with particular focus on one area for improvement, and the acceptance of critique on one’s performance, echoes the GRIT philosophy that pupils are learning about this year. Richard is also a proponent of anti-bullying, and discussed with pupils his experiences, and how they might prevent bullying, accidental or otherwise.

After a highly informative session with the A level PE group, and a performance discussion with the Caterham Athlete Programme (CAP) at lunchtime, he put the First Year girls through their paces in the afternoon with a session on acceleration.

David King, Senior Teacher (Pastoral), Teacher of Mathematics

45

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

CAREERS IN MEDICINE EVENING Over fifty parents and pupils attended the Careers in Medicine evening on Monday 14 November 2016, which featured three very helpful speakers. Sam Wickham, from Brighton and Sussex Medical School, imparted some invaluable information about the competitive nature of applying to study medicine, and how pupils should focus on what attributes and skills they gained on their work placements, rather than just talking about what they did.

Fraser Kenny, an Old Cat currently in his third year of medical school (coincidently, Brighton and Sussex Medical School) gave some very honest answers about life as a student, and how he copes with the study regime, and Dr Richard Wright, a current parent, spoke about his role as a GP, as well as that of his OC daughter, who recently qualified from medical school, and who is currently working at Guys and St Thomas’ in London.

Clare Brown, Head of Careers

INDEPENDENT RESEARCH PROJECT (IRP) RESULTS Many congratulations to Joey Pang (U6H2), who was 2016’s winner of the IRP – one of the School’s most prestigious academic prizes – which took place on Thursday 24 November 2016. Joey’s project, which also won the Audience’s Vote prize, was titled A Terrible Week(ness) and was an insightful and strikingly original study of autism and the social difficulties associated with the condition. Swaney Loh (U6A2), who was awarded the second place prize, gave a fascinating talk on the ‘sworn virgins’ of Northern Albania. Third place went to Rainbow Cheng (U6L2) who spoke about missionaries in nineteenth century China. Daniel Davidson (U6L2), Lucy Etheridge (U6U1), and Roman Streltsov (U6U1) were the other finalists in a contest which the judges described as “hugely impressive – perhaps the most impressive IRP yet.” Thank you to our judges: Mr John Weeks (Headmaster of the London Academy of Excellence in Newham), Ms Lindie Louw (Headmistress of Hazelwood Prep School), and Mr Rob Baston (banker, mathematician and parent of two OCs).

Kim Wells, Director of Learning and Teaching

CSS INSIGHT EVENING – MEDICINE Monday 30 January 2017 The first Caterham School Society (CSS) Insight Evening was a big success, with Dr Tim Tree engaging the audience and explaining his leading research into Type 1 Diabetes. A wide range of different people attended, from OCs, current pupils, staff, parents, and other friends of the School. It was a wonderful opportunity to network with medical professionals, and those with an interest in medicine.

Future CSS insight evenings will focus on specific industries, and offer a chance to network, gain deeper knowledge, and connect back to the School.

Hannah Graydon, Head of Marketing and Communications

GREASE 2001 REPORT IN CATERHAM SCHOOL MAGAZINE 2001 In the last few days of the term three audiences were treated to the school production of Grease.

It was an ambitious project using over 70 pupils from the First Year to the Upper Sixth, not only acting and directing but also assisting with light, sound and back stage work. The cast led by Claire Williams and Daniel Owen-Hughes, with notable support from Paul Tickner, Rosie Dell, and Becky Perfect produced a vibrant and entertaining evening that was much enjoyed by the audience.

The Caterham School Society

GREASE IS THE WORD! Caterham’s Humphreys Theatre was transformed into Rydell High School in mid-December 2016 as Greasers slouched on the bleachers, the Pink Ladies partied, Patty shook her pom poms, Eugene escaped from the clutches of Cha Cha, and Miss Lynch tried to keep control of the 75 strong cast. The School’s autumn term drama production was a knock-out success.

By Lauren, Head Girl

By Hugo, Head Boy

I most enjoyed the atmosphere of the rehearsal sessions throughout the process of Grease. I felt as though I made so many new friendships, bonding with younger years, and further with my own year.

Everyone made the environment of rehearsals so enjoyable and, despite the lengthy hours, there wasn’t a rehearsal that went by without enjoyment. Playing Sandy was a nervous task, but the endless support from both fellow students and staff made it a much easier engagement, and I was so grateful for everyone who made it the exciting and incredible experience it became. I would have to say my favourite song in the play was Summer Nights as I felt it was the first time in the show we really came together as a cast.

My favourite thing about doing Grease was the last week of rehearsals; once we get to the last week everyone knows their part, and can really focus on the performance of the show. My favourite song was probably Greased Lightning because it was such a high energy number, and the cast really nailed the harmonies from early on, and it sounded great every time we rehearsed it.

Well-known songs such as Greased Lightning, Summer Nights, and You’re the One that I Want were brought to life by the amazing band, and fantastic singing and dancing. Lauren as Sandy, and Hugo as Danny, performed outstanding solos, creating a powerful emotional connection with the audience within an energetic, action packed show.

The Teen Angel boy band and dancers, led by Nathan, made a theatrical entrance in a sea of haze, angel wings, and hair curlers.

This year’s backstage and technical teams were entirely pupil run. Their professionalism and efficiency were outstanding as the separate departments – lights, sound, props, set, costume, and make up – worked together to add context, colour, and sparkle to the production.

By the end of the show, the audience were on their feet hand jiving with the cast as Johnny Casino led the entire auditorium in a sensational reprise of Born to Hand Jive.

Louise Fahey, Head of Drama and Theatre Studies

46

47

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

CATERHAM SCHOOL CELEBRATES 125 YEARS OF THE DEBATING SOCIETY

CATERHAM’S CHOIRS PERFORM IN PRAGUE The Eric Thiman Singers (ETS) and the Chamber Choir travelled to Prague in the Czech Republic at the end of the February half term break and delighted audiences with magnificent performances.

The programme, centred around ‘Peace’, included a variety of motets and works by British composers, including Purcell, Gibbons, Tallis, and Eric Thiman, Old Caterhamian. The Chamber Choir performed the challenging and breath-taking Miserere by Allegri – a work very rarely attempted by school choirs.

Audiences were visibly moved by the performances, and gave rapturous applause at both concerts, which were ‘standing room only’.

On Friday 24 February the 125th anniversary of the Caterham School Debating Society was celebrated by a number of its former members, ranging from the class of 1955 to that of 2014.

The Vice President (Rob Salem), in the presence of the President (Headmaster, Ceri Jones), chaired a debate that harked back to the very first motion discussed in 1892.

The seven Old Caterhamians, and current pupil chairman of the society, weaved persuasive arguments through a tangled web of delightful humour and gentle taunting, reviving memories of their own experiences of debating at the School in days gone by.

A convivial atmosphere continued into the evening as the assembled debaters relocated to a local hostelry, and remembered past glories from the oldest and noblest of the School’s many clubs and societies. Many thanks to all who came to what was a splendid evening of entertainment and camaraderie!

Rob Salem, Senior Teacher (Academic)

Adam Assen, Director of Music

RSC AND NATIONAL THEATRE ACTOR RETURNS TO SCHOOL Acclaimed film and stage actor, Chukwudi Iwuji (OC 1987 – 1993) inspired Caterham pupils on Thursday 2 March with an informal talk about his journey into acting, and the highlights of his acting career.

His work with the RSC, National Theatre, Old Vic, and extensive work on Broadway provided rich anecdotes and helpful advice for our aspiring performers.

Chukwudi boarded at Caterham School in the early 1990s, and was delighted to reflect on his memories and the developments within drama since he attended the School. He is currently appearing with Ruth Wilson in Ibsen’s Hedda Gabler at the National Theatre.

Hannah Graydon, Head of Marketing and Communications

The Caterham School Society

LAUNCH OF ARTSHOUSE The launch of Caterham ArtsHouse took place on Friday 3 March, with the first live theatre production from a visiting company, Austentatious. The advertising blurb read: ‘AUSTENTATIOUS is an entirely improvised comedy play in the style of Jane Austen. Join the all-star cast as they create a riotously funny new literary masterpiece, based on nothing more than a title suggested by the audience.’

On the strength of the above description, a large number of eagerly expectant parents, pupils, and friends packed the foyer of the Humphreys Theatre.

A crackle of excitement, but also a hint of trepidation, filled the atmosphere. Beside me one visitor asked her friend if she thought that we, as the audience, would be participating in the improvisation alongside the actors. Whilst replying ‘surely not…’ her friend did not look entirely convinced. Indeed many of us were not completely sure what to expect. Our fears however, could not have been more unfounded. From the first

moment, we were treated to a roller coaster ride through the familiar world of Austen’s lovable characters, piercingly portrayed with razor wit and split second comic timing. The resultant heady mix had us all helpless with laughter at every turn.

More than one unfortunate audience member found themselves doubled up, unable quite to control their fits of giggles. In the words of Jane Austen, the queen of wit herself, ‘For what do we live, but to make sport for our neighbours, and laugh at them in our turn?’

I left the theatre determined to see this company in action again in the not too distant future. It would be hard to imagine a more fitting and fun way to have launched Caterham ArtsHouse, the new Caterham live theatre venture, and I look forward to forthcoming evenings of outstanding performance.

More information about productions can be found on www.caterhamartshouse.co.uk or on our Facebook page: Caterham ArtsHouse.

Lynn Lobb, Drama Assistant

48

49

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

CREATIVE CAREERS EVENING Over 100 pupils and their parents attended the Creative Careers Evening, held in the library on Monday 13 March. A number of Old Caterhamians, parents, from Pre-Prep, Prep, and the Senior Schools joined external speakers, and staff from the art department for a look at some of the possibilities in the creative industries. From a presentation on 3D printing, to talks about façade engineering, graphic design, PR, and drama, our pupils were able to find out a great deal about numerous career avenues in the creative industry.

I would like to thank everyone involved in this event because, without your support, it would be an impossible task to offer our pupils such a fabulous forum to explore their future potential and ideas.

Clare Brown, Head of Careers

ANOTHER NATIONAL LAMB AT CATERHAM Current Fifth Year pupil, Jude Williams, has been selected for the Independent Schools Lambs National XV at U16 level.

This is a great achievement by Jude, and is just reward for the hard work he has put in. Jude, alongside Tyler Norwood and Ollie Repton, was one of three Fifth Year boys to play in the 1st XV this year, and this exposure to a quicker, and more physical, level of rugby has paid dividends with this selection.

Jude will hopefully make his debut against the Worcester Warriors Academy, and there are further fixtures versus the Saracens Academy and the Irish Exiles.

Jude is the latest in a string of recent success at this level for Caterham, following in the footsteps of Matt Foulds (OC 2005 – 2009), Rory Carter (OC 2014), Elliot Hall (OC 2015 – 2016), and Cory Nelson (OC 2014 – 2016), who have all represented the Lambs in recent seasons.

Dan Richards, Head of Rugby

ENGLAND HOCKEY SELECTS CATERHAM SCHOOL

PREVIEW 2017 LAUNCH Thursday 16 March saw the successful launch of Preview, the School’s political magazine produced by Sixth Form politics pupils, in the Attlee Suite, Portcullis House, Westminster.

The launch event was well very attended by pupils, staff, parents, and distinguished guests from Parliament. The evening included an engaging and entertaining speech by Preview team leader Daniel Davidson, who recounted the highlights of this year’s production process and regaled us with his views on current politics. This was followed by a keynote address

by Ben Wright, a senior Westminster correspondent with the BBC. Mr Wright spoke enthusiastically about Preview and how impressed he was with the breadth and depth of the articles in it. He then unveiled the 2017 edition, and copies were distributed to all guests. A caption contest, quiz, and cryptic crossword kept guests entertained whilst the magazine encouraged ongoing discussion and debate, capturing the essence of what politics is all about.

To view a copy of this year’s Preview magazine, please visit https://goo.gl/UDe111 or contact Iona Mackay Bulger, Development and Communications Officer (events@caterhamschool.co.uk / tel: 01883 335089) for a hard copy of the magazine.

Toby Cooper, Head of Politics/History

We are delighted that Caterham School was selected as one of England Hockey’s performance centres. The School’s sports facilities are one of only seventeen performance centres across the country, and will serve as a base to train the most talented young players in the region.

England Performance Centre coaching sessions will run at Caterham School, supporting the top performing juniors who are working towards selection for the national age group squad. The base was chosen for offering an extremely high quality coaching environment for those young players.

The selection of Caterham School follows the opening of the new all-weather pitch by Olympic gold medal winner, Alex Danson, and the launch of the Caterham School Hockey Academy last September, which provides coaching and sessions for all ages from beginner to elite.

Hannah Graydon, Head of Marketing and Communications

The Caterham School Society

50

China’s social credit score – an Orwellian future?

BY HANNAH (CURRENT UPPER SIXTH PUPIL)

An extract from Preview 2017

I

s China moving towards a society of absolute totalitarianism? Such a question may seem archaic, but with the Chinese government building an all-powerful, all-controlling ‘social credit’ system, with which it plans to monitor and control almost every aspect of its citizens’ lives, it is one that we must ask. The aim: by 2020, every single person in China will be a part of a national database, which tracks their every move and publicises the most intimate details of their life. 

51

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

W

e only have a vague picture of this system, but we know that every citizen will receive a numerical rating, which determines how good the ruling party think you are. The central principles for the system being that “if trust is broken in one place, restrictions are imposed elsewhere.” Good behaviour will be rewarded and bad behaviour punished, with the dictatorial Communist party acting as both judge and jury.

The ‘social score’ is predicted to affect all aspects of a person’s life. From travelling abroad, acquiring loans, to what property they can buy, and what school their children will go to. Muring Xuecun, a social commentator from Beijing, compared the potential new system to Orwell’s ‘Big Brother’ – where the government has all the information from your personal life, and the resultant power allows them to harm you in whatever way it pleases.

The Communist Party has said the score is an attempt to control the fraud and corruption within the huge economy it controls – one where poisoned food and phoney medicines are readily traded with no consistent penalty. However, as in any absolutist government, these plans aren’t without an ulterior motive – the motive being to absorb all remnants of autonomy from its people.

A planning document put before China’s elite state council explains that the social credit will ‘forge a public opinion that trustworthiness is glorious’, building ‘a fairer and better society’. Supporters of the new system argue that, currently, a conman can commit a crime in one place, and then another in a different place, whereas this new system will track all of a person’s past history making such activity much harder.

A computer algorithm cannot conceivably fathom how ‘trustworthy’ you are. If anything, the way in which citizens are encouraged to report ‘bad’ acts from other citizens, with rewards being offered in return, undermines any idea of trustworthiness. This will turn into a competitive nightmare, making China a place where people both publicly shame, and secretly inform on, colleagues and neighbours. In stark contrast to the bland ideal of a ‘credit system which builds trust between all citizens’, it is quite possible that it could create a lack of trust and paranoia as self-preservation and human instinct kick in.

At a time when rapid economic development is stimulating more personal freedom and ending the reliance of impoverished people on oligarchs and technocrats, the Communist Party is rightly concerned about losing control. It is an obvious indicator of the increasing repression of freedom in China under the current president, Xi Jinping. Citizens are being blacklisted due to a low social score, rendered unable to run for public office and gain access to social security.

The social credit will ‘forge a public opinion that trustworthiness is glorious’, building ‘a fairer and better society’

The Caterham School Society

Despite its other egregious features, the system is defined by its status as an almost insurmountable barrier to democracy

52

Someone with a low score will find themselves frisked more often at Chinese customs, prevented from getting a bed on overnight trains, and not being allowed into higher starred hotels and restaurants. Despite its other egregious features, the system is defined by its status as an almost insurmountable barrier to democracy. The government may simply phase out any political dissidents, leaving only those who have acquiesced to its illegitimate laws.

With mass surveillance comes the risks of data falling into the wrong hands, or being used improperly. According to William Glass, it is naïve to believe that the system will be safe from scams. He states that “there is a big market for this stuff, and as soon as the system sets up, there will be a great incentive for cyber criminals and state backed actors to go in, either to steal information or even alter it.

This system will be the ground truth of who you are. But considering that all this information is digital, it is certainly not immutable”.

Currently to be set in motion by 2020, the government is monitoring how the system plays out in eight high profile, state-approved pilot projects across the country.

Sesame Credit, the most notable of these pilots, is an online shopping platform with over 350 million users. Its database is using the consumer’s personal information to assess individuals and give them their social credit scores, dependant on what they buy and how much they spend.

The users are then encouraged to flaunt and boast their scores to acquaintances and it can even go as far as trying to find someone with a similar score to consider them for a ‘potential mate’.

This is just a small insight into the path that China finds itself on, one where privacy could cease to meaningfully exist, with everyone competing for the best social score at the cost of personal relationships. A China where hackers and cyber criminals prosper, and where the government has total control over all citizens who still exist within the law, the Communist party filtering out all opposition to consolidate itself as an immovable political force. 

53

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

More information on where to purchase a selection of Professor Aminoff’s works is available at the end of this article

NEUROLOGY ON THE BRAIN WITH OC PROFESSOR MICHAEL AMINOFF Professor Michael Aminoff (OC 1953 – 1959) has been a professor of neurology at the University of California, San Francisco since 1982. The author of a number of textbooks, and medical biographies, Michael specialises in treating Parkinson’s disease. He is married and has three children; one a paediatric rheumatologist, another a federal defence attorney, and the third an assistant district attorney. In this article, Michael tells the editor about what took him across the Atlantic, his love for medical history, and how you can become a professor of neurology and still play the Spanish guitar. 

The Caterham School Society

54

55

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

Professor, tell me, why did you decide to go in to medicine?

I grew up with the idea of being a doctor. I am not sure that I ever sat down and considered alternatives.

Mr Walker, the biology master and careers adviser at Caterham at the time, was always very encouraging, and I enjoyed the exposure to zoology that I had with him. Actually, I had a very good preparation for medical school, with Mr Wenden’s chemistry class, and Mr Maddock’s physics class in addition to the zoology.

How did Caterham help you on your path to becoming a professor of neurology?

Caterham gave me the work habits and academic qualifications to gain entry to medical school and then to succeed there. Caterham also fostered in me a sense of enquiry and of curiosity that subsequently helped me to pursue an academic career. Finally, Caterham instilled in me a love of English and of history that have helped me in my career, the former because it aided me in many writing endeavours, and the latter because one of my hobbies is medical history; this stimulated me to write two biographies of nineteenth century neuroscientists, both published by Oxford University Press.

Why did you choose to train at University College London (UCL), and University College Hospital (UCH), and, subsequently, at The National Hospital?

I applied to a number of London medical schools, knowing how difficult it was, and still is, to get accepted. UCL was the first to offer me a place, and I was delighted. Its medical school was particularly well-regarded; for example, while I was a student at UCL, there were four past or future Nobel laureates in physiology and medicine working there. The hospital dated from Victorian times, and had a most unusual configuration, being built in the shape of a Saint Andrew’s cross.

This allowed the long wards to have windows on both sides. A huge, modern UCH was built several years ago, but the old cruciform red-brick

building remains as a medical research centre, just across from UCL. After qualifying, I worked at UCH as a house physician and house surgeon, and then at various other London teaching centres (the Hammersmith, Middlesex, and Central Middlesex hospitals) before going on to the National Hospital at Queen Square, in central London. The National is the cradle of British neurology and neurosurgery, and I had marvellous training there under many talented neurologists. I remember those days with particular pleasure.

How did you cope with the intensity of the work whilst studying, and uncertainty of post-medical school placements?

I found that the preclinical years were the hardest part of medical school, because the focus is on the theoretical underpinning of medicine (such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, biochemistry, and so on) which seem remote from the clinical work of a doctor. The studying was intense, but I broke it up by playing Spanish guitar and with other social activities. There is a full range of student clubs and societies at UCL, although the medical students tended to keep to themselves rather than mixing with the student body in general.

As for post-medical school placements, these have always been very competitive, but such uncertainties are common in many different walks of life. When I was a junior doctor, the post-medical school placements were each for six months, so that for the first two or three years of postgraduate work, there was a constant feeling of uncertainty as to the future. I personally decided never to seek an appointment that was not at one of the major London teaching hospitals, and I kept that resolve.

Thus, on one occasion, I had to work for three months as a medical officer at London Transport to keep body and soul together between placements! When I told my young children about this several years later, they got the mistaken impression that I had been a bus driver, to their great amusement!

Caterham instilled in me a love of English and of history that […] stimulated me to write two biographies of nineteenth century neuroscientists, both published by Oxford University Press

The Caterham School Society

A career in medicine is remarkably rewarding and satisfying

THE MONCRIEFFJONES SOCIETY No other school in the country has a science society to rival the prestigious Moncrieff-Jones Society. It has been running for nearly 50 years and is the most popular and well-attended of all the school’s serious academic societies. Each term 6 pupils present 30-minute talks, prepared entirely independently, on a science topic of their choice. They are then crossquestioned by the audience for a further half hour. Presenting an MJS talk has been likened to 12 rounds in a boxing ring with Mike Tyson. The autumn term talks are presented by potential Oxbridge candidates, and everyone is welcome to come along and listen.

How has your field changed since you first qualified in 1965?

The field has changed dramatically.

When I entered neurology, there was no way of viewing the living brain without exploring it operatively.

Computerised tomography (CAT scanning) was developed in the early 1970s, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the 1980s. A number of other technological advances in imaging have occurred since then; we can now see the structure of the brain and spinal cord remarkably clearly by such techniques. Other approaches, such as positron-emission tomography (PET), and functional MRI, indicate how different parts of the brain are activated during specific tasks. With these techniques, it became possible to define networks within the brain that subserve particular functions.

These advances were simply unimaginable when I graduated as a doctor in 1965.

The field has changed in other ways as well; new diseases have been recognised. To give just one example, infection with human immune deficiency virus (HIV) can affect the nervous system in several different ways, leading to different disorders that neurologists must recognise.

New treatments have been developed for many neurological disorders.

Neurology used to be thought of as very esoteric – posing intellectual challenges to doctors and testing their diagnostic skills, but offering little in the way of therapy to patients. That is true no longer. New treatments for disorders, such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, strokes, brain tumours, epilepsy, neuropathies, and many other neurological disorders have revolutionised the specialty.

Advances in, for example, genetics, immunology, and physiology have provided new insights into old diseases, allowing their underlying cause, and the involved mechanisms, to be understood. These have been, and remain, exciting times, especially for neurologists and neuroscientists.

What inspired your move to work at the University of California, San Francisco?

I moved to San Francisco originally to spend a one-year sabbatical there

56

as a visiting professor. Whilst there, in the 1974 to 1975 academic year, I was offered a permanent, tenured position at the University of California School of Medicine, that offered me everything that I could have asked for. I was free to divide up my time as I chose, between clinical work, neurophysiology, research, and teaching. No such position with such opportunities existed in the UK, where medicine was going through a difficult time, with a chronic lack of resources, and doctors who were increasingly disenchanted with their professional circumstances. The NHS was a wonderful construct but, at a time of shrinking resources, was being neglected. How could I have refused the opportunity that I was given in California?

What drew you to neurology and neurophysiology?

I don’t really know. I was always fascinated by the brain, what it does, and how it does it, even when I was at Caterham. As a medical student at UCL, much of the anatomy and physiology courses was directed at the operation of the nervous system, and, as a clinical student at UCH, I found the neurology ward the most interesting. Indeed, I especially enjoyed my time as a house physician at UCH, for I was appointed to the neurology ‘firm’. It therefore seemed natural for me to gravitate toward the National Hospital for further training in neurology and neurophysiology.

Why did you decide to specialise in Parkinson’s disease?

When I decided to specialise in Parkinson’s disease, and other movement disorders, there were few specialists in this field, but over the years, it has become a recognised subspecialty of neurology. It has grown, and remarkable developments have occurred within it; new drug treatments for Parkinson’s disease were developed, starting with the introduction of levodopa (L-DOPA) in the late 1960s (you may have seen the film Awakenings, which dealt movingly with this very topic).

Subsequently, other new drugs were developed, and surgical approaches to treatment were refined, such that 

57

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

we now treat selected patients with deep brain stimulation – connecting a specific, but overactive, part of the brain to a sort of pacemaker system that, when turned on, inhibits the involved cerebral region. More recently, a number of gene therapies have been developed, and are continuing to undergo experimental refinement and clinical evaluation.

I have enjoyed enormously being a part of that. In the future, stem cell therapies may become a new therapeutic avenue, but that remains to be seen.

What is the hardest part of your work?

The hardest part of my work is breaking bad news to patients and their families. It is also very difficult to deal with residents (doctors training in neurology) who are performing poorly, and for whom some remedial action is required.

How do you adapt your approach to fit your different patients?

particular pride. For example, when I served for ten years as the editor of a neuroscience journal, I had the opportunity of shaping the medical and scientific literature, and this kept me in the forefront of knowledge, and was immensely satisfying. When I was elected a director of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, I was involved for eight years in setting national guidelines and standards for training, and in assessing the competence of trainees in neurology and related fields.

These were memorable years that gave me great satisfaction. I was particularly proud when, in 1976, my first book was published – it was about a rather uncommon bloodvessel anomaly that may occur in, or around, the spinal cord, and can have disastrous consequences in some patients. The treatment of these lesions has since been improved dramatically. My parents were thrilled, as you can imagine, when they first saw the book, and my father, an engineer by profession, sat down and read it from cover to cover although I doubt that it could have made much sense to him. Their pride gave me great pleasure.

As you know, dealing with the intimate, the most private, aspects of another person’s life is one of the privileges of a doctor, and characterises the doctor-patient relationship. It requires empathy, an understanding of what another human being (the patient) is going through, and adapting one’s own behaviour to best help the patient. It is a matter of interpersonal relationships (I believe the modern term, at least in California, is ‘people skills’). This is something one learns in life, and, I believe, the learning starts at a very early age. I believe that some of the things that I learned at Caterham, both in the classroom and beyond it, helped me very much in this respect.

A doctorate in science is awarded based on an evaluation of a candidate’s body of published original research. My own work was focused on electrophysiological studies of the operation of the nervous system in health and disease. In brief, I had used a variety of different neurophysiological techniques to gain insight to how the brain operates in various different contexts.

Of which professional achievement are you particularly proud?

What advice would you give to aspiring medics?

That is a very difficult question to answer. There is no single answer, for there have been several moments of

Do not be put off by the problems in the NHS that you may read about. 

Which scientific contributions led to you being awarded a doctorate in science in 2000?

A Selection of Professor Aminoff’s works and where to buy them Aminoff’s Neurology and General Medicine (5th edition) Available in hardback and Kindle edition Amazon.co.uk https://goo.gl/uyG9wh Amazon.com https://goo.gl/GnYjU6 Aminoff’s Electrodiagnosis in Clinical Neurology (6th edition) Available in hardback and Kindle edition Amazon.co.uk https://goo.gl/Dlc7XK Amazon.com https://goo.gl/o2J1EO Clinical Neurology (9th edition, co-authored) Available in paperback and Kindle edition Amazon.co.uk https://goo.gl/fqw4x9 Amazon.com https://goo.gl/MNhcNG Electromyography in Clinical Practice: Clinical and Electrodiagnostic Aspects of Neuromuscular Disease (3rd edition) Available in hardback only Amazon.co.uk https://goo.gl/S64wsw Amazon.com https://goo.gl/ekkHFl Brown-Sequard: An Improbable Genius Who Transformed Medicine (2011) Available in hardback in the UK, and hardback and Kindle edition in the USA WHSmith Amazon.com

https://goo.gl/wolOJi https://goo.gl/N3qpbN

Sir Charles Bell: His Life, Art, Neurological Concepts, and Controversial Legacy (2016 UK, 2017 USA) Available in hardback only Amazon.co.uk https://goo.gl/TYi4Zx Amazon.com https://goo.gl/JnE05H

The Caterham School Society

Read about a variety of university courses from OCs who are currently studying

58

59

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

ELECTRONIC AND ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING (EEE) AT UNIVERSITY COLLEGE LONDON (UCL)

By Dmitry Leyko (OC 2011 – 2016), first year undergraduate at UCL

WHAT? Electronic engineering is mainly focused on small things, such as integrated circuits, robotics, and small powerconsuming circuits in general. Electrical engineering focuses on large scale things, such as the National Grid, communication, and wiring of a plane. We have to be proficient in electrical and electronic engineering as it is likely that future projects in electrical engineering will involve both, though you can follow your interest and study more of one that the other.

WHERE? My first choice of university was the University of Bath.

However, my older sister persuaded me to go to University College London (UCL). Now, I feel that being at UCL offers me more than Bath might have, and I really like the study modules available here, too. The workload at UCL is quite tough, but that is the case for all engineering courses at most universities.

Engineering is one of the tougher courses you can take, as there are always worksheets to work on, concepts to grasp, essay assignments to complete. So, if you’re thinking of studying engineering, buckle-up! London is wonderful to live in; everything you need is at your door step, from theatre productions, to huge open park spaces perfect for cycling. There are endless possibilities for nightlife, and there is no shortage of amenities. I can’t

really speak for the term-time job prospects in London, as I work for an online tutoring firm, and teach maths and physics to GCSE and A Level pupils. At the moment, I am looking for summer internships around the UK, not just in London.

WHY? I always knew that I wanted to go in to engineering in general, but in the Lower Sixth I was thinking more about studying mechanical engineering. However, the more projects I worked on at Caterham, the more I realised they were all centred on electronics, rather than other divisions of engineering.

I realised that, if I were to study EEE, I could both satisfy my curiosity of the hardware part of engineering, as well of as the software part that I have been interested in since joining the Python Coding Club run by Mr Mansell in my Fifth Year at Caterham. Caterham helped me realise my interest in science, and then focus on engineering. If not for Caterham’s wonderful physics and maths departments, I would probably be doing some other course which I would not enjoy at all! Caterham gave me tremendous help with choosing the right universities, and guided me through the application process. Mrs Brown is a wonderful carrier adviser and tutor who is always there for you!

The Caterham School Society

ANY CLUBS/SOCIETIES? I am an avid member of the UCLU Gliding Club; every weekend we go in a small group to RAF Halton, north London, about 40 minutes on the train. What I like most about the club is that it is a volunteer-run club, so if you are gliding you are also helping out with glider retrieval, launches, and general field management; this means that the club is really cheap compared to other gliding clubs.

Gliding itself is an exhilarating activity, where every take-of feels like riding Stealth at Thorpe Park!

YOUR ADVICE? Go to university open days, as they’re a great opportunity to see if you like the university. However, the best way to see if you like the course is to go on a ‘follow day’, where you will follow a current student around, and go to lectures with them. This is usually not advertised, but don’t be afraid to email and ask the staff at the university about it.

Also, there is a lot less spoon-feeding at university; you yourself have to monitor your progress. Make sure that you are up to date on all the work and material, and plan your time well, as there are a lot of deadlines to meet!

WHAT’S NEXT? To be completely honest, I have no idea. I am interested in the fields of communication, digital electronics, green energy, and aviation. I’ve not had enough experience with any of those fields yet to make a definitive decision as to where I eventually want to work. With an engineering degree, you can go in to all sorts of job directions. For example, my father originally trained as a rocket engineer, and worked on the Energia/Buran system in his twenties and early thirties, yet now he works in investment banking. So, it all depends on what I’m interested in closer to the end of my degree – maybe I’ll even go in to teaching. 

60

LIFE AFTER UNIVERSITY

BY FRANK SIU (OC 2005 – 2007)

I

went on to study for a bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance at the University of Warwick, and for a master’s degree in finance at Imperial College. Now, I live in London, and work in finance as a credit analyst. It’s the right balance of challenging and interesting, and I’m really enjoying it.

A number of things on offer at university really helped me when I was looking for a job. For example, I found attending career fairs at university was a great opportunity to meet employers; it helps to understand the variety of jobs available, what is expected of you by the employers, and the competitive selection process. University also provides career consultations, such as CV checks, and mock interviews.

University also helps you to develop some really important skills, such as setting clear goals, and managing our own time to achieve them. The university environment has definitely helped me to become a more independent person, as you are given minimal supervision from tutors and lecturers.

At university, I was a member of the equestrian society, where I learnt to play polo, and the snow sport society, where I learnt how to ski. I also joined the finance society, which sponsored a trip to New York to visit various companies and learn about their career prospects.

I found all of these clubs really useful, as they fostered in me a strong team spirit and a positive attitude, which are important when you go on to work.

61

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

QUANTITY SURVEYING AT THE UNIVERSITY OF READING

By Steven Greenhalgh (OC 2001 – 2015), first year undergraduate at the University of Reading

learn, but Mr Quinton taught me how to cope with this, with those infamous blue book notes!

Reading as a town has so much to offer, such as a huge shopping centre, with all the main high-street shops, banks, restaurants for all budgets, a cinema, a bowling alley, and much more. On top of that, London is 25 minutes away on the train, so if you do ever manage to get bored, you’ve got easy access to the capital.

Mainly, people take the bus from university, which are frequent, cheap, and take no more than 15 minutes to get in to town. Furthermore, in Reading, internship opportunities are always popping up, and the University of Reading is incredible in trying to help students get summer employment.

WHY? I always knew that I was going to end up in the construction industry, but had two options as to how to get there; I was either going to do a degree in economics, or in construction. I took a year out and, after speaking to many professionals in the business, the obvious manner of entry to construction was via a degree in surveying.

Quantity surveying encompasses both economics and construction, so it’s perfect.

Caterham School was vital in helping me choose my course and guiding me in the right direction, from meetings with Mrs Brown, to follow-up phone calls from various members of staff to ensure that I was making the right choice of university and course.

WHAT? As a quantity surveyor, it is vital to have an understanding of the inner-workings of a construction site. With this in mind, you cover a plethora of topics, whilst putting the learned content into practice outside of a lecture theatre.

In the coming years, I will be putting this into practice with a week away, when myself and course-mates will go out and actually build a 9m structure, with materials costs standing at £15,000.

As a first year undergraduate at the University of Reading, all modules are compulsory, and range from construction science, and construction engineering, to economics, and empirical studies.

WHERE? I chose the University of Reading for its reputation within the construction industry (it’s accredited by the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors), and because the employability rating for quantity surveying graduates leaving Reading is 100%. The course is thought by professionals to produce some of the best surveyors in the industry, and, after speaking to some industry leaders, and Mrs Brown, it became clear that Reading was a perfect choice.

During the first term, the workload was constant, but nothing too taxing. The main aspect that was challenging was the mass of new content we had to

ANY CLUBS/SOCIETIES? I am member of the Reading University Construction Society, where there are talks on graduate schemes, and employment possibilities in the industry. I also play American football as I wanted to try something new.

YOUR ADVICE? Take your time in choosing your university options, speak to current students and, if possible, speak to people in the industry. I was always told, “measure twice, cut once” – make sure that you aren’t going somewhere that you’re unsure about, as you don’t want to be wishing you had chosen another degree. On top of all of this, use the services that Caterham provides to help pupils choose the right course and university; they were instrumental in where I am today.

WHAT’S NEXT? My end goal is to work in property investment, mainly focusing on emerging markets. Thinking more short term, after finishing university, I want to enrol on a graduate scheme, and gain my Assessment of Professional Competence (APC). I would like gain experience as a cost manager and go from there. I have my heart set on going back over to Australia, and working as a quantity surveyor over there, especially as there is so much work within energy infrastructure in Australia. 

The Caterham School Society

62

MEDICINE AT THE UNIVERSITY OF BRISTOL

By Francesca Adams (OC 2008 – 2015), second year undergraduate at the University of Bristol

WHAT? We don’t get a huge amount of choice in study modules on our course at Bristol because, as you may expect with medicine, there are quite a lot of compulsory things you have to learn! However, we already cover a wide variety of topics in my course; in any one day we may have lectures about general anaesthetics and opioids, then a histology lab looking at specimens of the brain and spinal cord under the microscope, followed by a three-hour anatomy practical in the dissection room looking at real life specimens of all parts of the human body, to being in a hospital, examining, and taking histories of, real patients.

This year I chose to do a module called ‘Deaf Studies’, during which we learnt the basics of sign language, based around a medical setting, and, at the end, had to carry out a consultation with a deaf person totally in sign language. It was a huge learning curve for me and, as we were taught solely by deaf teachers; it was an amazing insight into their world, and what it is like to be living as a deaf person.

From September 2017, I am taking a year off my medical studies to take a BSc in genomic medicine. I shall then continue with the last three clinical years of my medical degree. It was a difficult decision, but I decided to do it in the end because I have always had an interest in genetics, and I didn’t want to waste the opportunity to be able to study something I love in more depth.

WHERE? Bristol was one of my top choices because, when I visited it on the open day, I fell in love with the city and the university. Bristol is a fantastic city to live in because it’s very vibrant and there’s always a lot going on. It’s the perfect combination of a big city with lots of shops, but also with some really beautiful landmarks (the Clifton Suspension bridge being one), and green spaces. There are plenty of restaurants and cafés to which to take friends and parents when they visit! Since medicine is quite a busy course, tutors advise us not to get term-time jobs, so I haven’t looked myself, but I do have friends who have found work here.

The workload here is reasonably heavy, but mainly because we can have up to about 21 hours’ worth of lectures, tutorials and practicals a week. Writing up lecture notes is probably what consumes most of my time, but we do also have pre- and post- lab quizzes to complete online for our practicals, as well as a couple of large project/ essay deadlines a year. The work schedule is busy, but definitely manageable, with good organisation and time management. 

63

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

WHY? Medicine perfectly combines my love of science and working with people. I knew from about the Fourth Year at Caterham that I wanted to do medicine. The science department continually inspired me to pursue that aim; Mrs Seal organised meetings for all of us applying to medicine, during which we discussed things that may come up in interview, the pros and cons of each university, personal statement writing advice, and even interview practice. These were incredibly helpful in the application process, and helped me make more of a decision about which university to apply to.

I have also always loved playing team sports, and getting involved with as many things as possible, so I knew I would cope well with the busy schedule. Doing work experience at different hospitals, and volunteering at both disabled schools for children, and care homes for the elderly, definitely confirmed my thoughts about medicine. I also went to both Premed and Medlink (courses introducing you to what it is like to study at medical school), which really helped my decision to study medicine, and made me excited to be able to start!

ANY CLUBS/SOCIETIES? Throughout my time at school, I was pretty busy trying to juggle lots of extracurricular activities with my school work, but I found that I work a lot better if I’m busy! The main society that I am a member of is the lacrosse club, training three times a week, and playing matches every Wednesday. I also play netball in the Social Halls and Societies League, and have been to meetings of the Caledonian Society a few times with some of my friends to learn Scottish dancing.

It’s been great fun challenging myself to learn something new, and it’s a good way to have a break from work. I also been involved with some of the events run by Medics’ Music, which has been a good opportunity to meet medics from other years.

YOUR ADVICE? In terms of choosing a particular course, my advice would be do what you love, and not just what other people are saying you should do. Also, more often than not, you’ll love wherever you end up studying. Nevertheless, do your research, find out exactly how your chosen course is taught at each university, as this can vary a lot.

My biggest piece of advice would be to go to the open days of universities to which you are considering applying. This is the best way to really see what a particular university is like, and enables you to ask any questions you may have.

WHAT’S NEXT? This is a question we get asked a lot as medics, and my honest answer is that I don’t think you can really know until you’ve tried out the different specialties in the clinical years of your training.

However, at the moment, I think I would love to become a paediatrician and be able to work with, and treat, children. I’m also considering becoming a GP. Time will tell! 

The Caterham School Society

64

INTERNATIONAL STUDIES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF LEIDEN

By Esika Baruah (OC 2014 – 2016), first year undergraduate at the University of Leiden, Holland

WHAT? In the first term, we have courses in history, culture, linguistics, and economics. Then, we choose an area of the world on which to focus for the rest of our degree, and take classes in the appropriate language for that area, as well as studying core modules. For me it was a difficult decision between choosing the Middle East with Arabic, or North America with Spanish, as I wanted to learn both languages. I took politics for A Level, and so eventually realised my interests lay there, and focused on North America with Spanish.

What I like the most about this course is that it combines so many different aspects, while still being very broad, with no pressure on focusing on any one thing too soon. The course also offers the opportunity to take a second language in the second term, either in the first or second year.

WHERE? I chose Leiden University as I didn’t want to limit my choices to British universities, and I also wanted the international atmosphere that there is here. I live in The Hague, a city about ten minutes from Leiden, as my course is not on the main campus. There are three or four universities in the city, so it’s very much a student city.

I don’t speak Dutch at all, and there’s no real need to learn, as nearly every single Dutch person speaks English!

On top of this, The Hague is one of the most international cities, so walking around I actually sometimes forget English is not the first language for most people here!

The workload here is a fair amount, but manageable, and there’s time in the week to do other things; I was able to get a part-time job at a hospitality company, which doesn’t involve needing to speak a word of Dutch. The work is geared towards students, and based around your availability. However, it’s not easy to find part-time jobs as an international student, so be aware of this.

WHY? I had actually been looking for International Relations and Spanish at UK universities as I really wanted to learn a new language, but I also wanted to expand on my love for international politics and cultures. When I discovered this course, it combined all these things perfectly in one course, so it was a no-brainer!

Caterham helped me a lot with narrowing down what type of courses I wanted to study. I knew I didn’t want to do a science-based, or mathematical course, but more a language, essay-based course. I would not have known my interest for North America had it not been for politics A Level.

ANY CLUBS/SOCIETIES? I’m part of my course’s women’s football team and, this term, I’m going to start surfing. As we’re not on the main university campus, there is a limited choice of clubs to join. However, students can start up their own club, which is how the surf club came about! Ultimately, the main campus, and Leiden itself, is only a ten-minute train ride away, so there is an option to go there too, where the choice of clubs is larger.

YOUR ADVICE? Do something you think you’ll enjoy and, if not, you can always change course. Also, make sure you visit the university to get a sense of the atmosphere, and find out if you want to be on a campus or non-campus university.

I recently read that, “the best thing about university; no one tells you what to do. The worst thing about university; no one tells you what to do”. What surprised me the most about being at university is the amount of freedom you have; the change from being told what to do, to trying to figure it out yourself is a bit overwhelming at first, but it’s definitely something you get used to.

WHAT’S NEXT? I honestly have no clue, but I like how the course still keeps my options open. 

65

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

ILLUSTRATION AT THE UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS BOURNEMOUTH (UAB)

By Jonathan Ho (OC 2010 – 2016), first year undergraduate at UAB Jonathan Ho (right) with Michael Fahey (centre, OC 2003 – 2016), and Speed Fung (left, OC 2010 – 2016)

WHAT? Illustration is a lot like A Level art; a project brief is given at the beginning of the course, and you work your way to meeting the learning objectives. Sometimes, it involves drawing day and night, but sometimes there is a lot of research and reading needing to be done.

Visual communication is a new language that I need to learn; analysing colours, text, compositions.

I love how, apart from practical work, we also learn about art movements, different genres [of art], and a lot of background history of art. During Monday morning lectures, I’ve learnt about filming techniques, music, and how album covers represent the album, or the genre, whereas, now, album covers always represent the artist.

We focus a lot on learning to use Photoshop, InDesign, and a lot of digital drawing software, and have drawing and printing workshops as well. We learn about a lot of pop culture, and important developments and changes in the area. I really enjoy my course, and it’s slowly changing my perspective on art, and I’m starting to notice, and focus more on, the details, and appreciate art in a different way.

WHERE? All I wanted was to study at an arts university because I was, and still am, really intrigued by the atmosphere in such a university. Luckily, Bournemouth gave me the opportunity, so I was on board as soon as I received my offer. Study at Bournemouth is pretty much is selfmotivated; there are no set works or deadlines apart from the project hand-in date.

Bournemouth is a very nice place to live; I am currently living in Winton, which is about 25 minutes’ walk to uni, and 50 minutes’ walk

A-Level piece

The Caterham School Society

66

to the town centre. Everything is very closely packed together, with major supermarkets within walking distance. The night life is very interesting. Everything here is relatively cheap compared to living in Hong Kong, or in other places around London. There are term-time jobs available, and lots of opportunities for work experience once you’re past your first year at university.

WHY? I chose illustration because I believe it is one of the best ways to engage with society. I’m very grateful to Mrs Drummond, Mr Mills, Mrs Brown, Miss Wallace, and Mrs Bell for helping me with the logistics of being able to study in the UK. ANY CLUBS/SOCIETIES? I’m part of the UAB Dance Society because I really love dancing!

YOUR ADVICE? When you go to university a lot of independence is handed to you, and you will have to grow very fast; just make sure you always remember what motivates you to do what you do. I would encourage students who are interested in illustration to treat it like you would any other kind of art, and keep experimenting; find what you are passionate about, and try to visually communicate your ideas.

I know art universities are different from other universities, but time management is still very important. Being at university is fun, so just enjoy it!

WHAT’S NEXT? I’m not too sure yet – wherever the wind takes me!



67

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

INFORMATION MANAGEMENT FOR BUSINESS AT UNIVERSITY COLLEGE LONDON (UCL)

By Petras Slekys (OC 2014 – 2016), first year undergraduate at UCL

WHAT? I study a variety of different subjects that fall under the umbrella of information management, from management, business intelligence, information systems, programming, marketing, and even organisational behaviour.

WHERE? UCL is one of the top universities in the world, and offered a course that suited me perfectly. Most of my days are spent working and travelling, which, combined with education, consumes every minute of the day!

Being located in London, a diverse city with unlimited opportunities, makes being at UCL even better – London is an enormous city offering a variety of activities, and this includes its famed nightlife, and great work opportunities.

WHY? For the past eight years, I have had a passion for IT, and this degree allows me to explore the managerial aspects of the industry, and allows me great flexibility between my studies and professional work.

I have been enjoying travelling around the world about 60% of the time, working on international projects for the biggest IT organisations, while being mentored and guided by world-class professionals at university.

University allows me to self-develop, and, together with the flexibility it offers, I am able to achieve far beyond my expectations.

ANY CLUBS/SOCIETIES? I have not yet enrolled on any societies due to the lack of time. However, when I am available, I often attend a wide range of events organised by societies, from socials with people from my home country, to sports matches.

YOUR ADVICE? Select a course that you want (not need) to study – look for your passion, not job opportunities, and select a university that makes you feel comfortable.

Nobody at university just hands you information, and there is a great need to be self-organised to ensure you are on top of your work.

University’s goal is to ensure the successful development of every student. Hence, if you are interested in additional subjects, want to learn more, or practice for something, then let them know!

WHAT’S NEXT? I hope that after university I will be able to join an international team working in the IT industry, either as a project manager, or product owner. 

The Caterham School Society

68

ZOOLOGY AT THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHAMPTON

By Thomas Land (OC 2001 – 2016), first year undergraduate at the University of Southampton

WHAT? With roughly eight contact hours a week in lectures (excluding practicals every other week) I have a lot of time for extracurricular activities, and work.

All presentations and recorded lectures are available online for cross-referencing and catching up if needs be; the professors of my course don’t just want you to pass, but also want to encourage you to push the boundaries of your knowledge of your subject, and will support you all the way.

At Southampton there are a number of compulsory modules in the first year that most biological sciences students study, for example, anatomy, biochemistry, and genetics. This year, of the optional modules, I chose to study a module called ‘The Living Earth’. This is the palaeontology module looking in detail at the prehistoric creatures that have roamed our planet long before the first mammals had ever even considered evolving.

WHERE? Southampton is both a pretty, and safe city. The transport links from university to the heart of the city are very good as well as a fast train to London. The halls are comfortable, and finding a house has been fairly easy with so much choice. With a large shopping centre and arcade in the city, jobs are easy to come by, and have flexible hours for students working in between lectures, as well as plenty of jobs being present on the campus in the Student Union itself.

We have roughly one deadline a week for reports, and practical write-ups. This is enough to keep us busy, as it does require a bit of research, and outside knowledge, but not too much to keep us indoors at desks all day.

WHY? Many universities offer biological sciences with modules oriented around the natural world, but what stood out about zoology was the focus, especially in later years, on the organisms and ecosystems on our planet as a whole.

For me, I wanted to see the larger picture; cell biology is fascinating, and genetics is captivating, but zoology was something that captured my heart. Studying animals of all sorts in their environments, throughout Earth’s 4.6 billion years, for me, was understanding life itself, and wasn’t an opportunity to be missed.

ANY CLUBS/SOCIETIES? I mainly carried on the sports that I did at school, including archery and badminton. I’m also continuing on in the choir (of which there are many), and have started new sports, such as rifle shooting. There are so many here that you feel obliged to join all of them, but soon realise that there’s not enough time!

YOUR ADVICE? In terms of course, you should only do what you really want to do; three to four years of your life is a long time, and I have already seen people drop out who came only for the sake of getting a degree.

In terms of university, you should look at as many as you can and narrow it down to ones that you could imagine yourself being happy at.

WHAT’S NEXT? My goal is to work at the BBC making documentaries.

Honestly, I would like Sir David Attenborough’s job (who wouldn’t want it?). 

69

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

IN THE ARCHIVES Colin Bagnall School Archivist (OC 1949 – 1955)

A

t the School, we have a growing archive which is overseen by OC volunteer Colin Bagnall (OC 1949 – 1955). We are always glad to receive photographs, books, and clothes to grow this wonderful resource, and preserve our history for generations to come. We are grateful to Nick Pyner (OC 1953 – 1957) for sharing his memories, in the form of photographs with himself, and members of the classes of 1957 – 1958. If you would like to submit something to the archive, and/or share your own memories, please contact Eloise Väisänen, Alumni Officer (eloise.vaisanen@caterhamschool.co.uk / tel: 01883 335091).

Reunions are a wonderful opportunity to reminisce with old school friends, and visit the School to see what has changed over the years. We are grateful to David Rogers’ continued, invaluable help in organising the OC summer reunions.

This year, we are holding a reunion lunch at the School for “All the Sevens” – the class of 1957, 1967, 1977, 1987, 1997, and 2007 on Sunday 25 June. For tickets, please contact Eloise Väisänen, Alumni Officer (eloise.vaisanen@ caterhamschool.co.uk / tel: 01883 335091).

In June 2018, there will be a reunion lunch held at the School for “All the Eights” – the class of 1958, 1968, 1978, 1988, 1998, and 2008 (more details will be published closer to the time). We are currently trying to get back in contact with as many of our lost alumni from these years, as well as from other years, as possible, so that we can keep them informed about news from the School, and invite them to reunions and events.

If you are in contact with any of the people whose names are in the list opposite, or anyone who you think might not be in contact with us, please ask them to get in touch with Eloise Väisänen, Alumni Officer (eloise.vaisanen@ caterhamschool.co.uk / tel: 01883 335091).

Hampton Court 1957 (published in the School’s book Independent Spirit, 2011)

574 Sqdn St Athan, Easter 1957 Both photos submitted to the alumni office by Nick Pyner (OC 1953 – 1957)

The Caterham School Society

LOST OCs Class of 1968 Mr A. C. Marsh Class of 1978 Mr G. J. Richings Mr J. D. C. Cove Mr C. Burkart Class of 1988 Mrs M. E. C. Morgan Miss A. Murdoch Mr R. D. Kesley Mr I. L. Mackenzie Mr P. B. Martin Miss M. Cox Mr H. O. Loyola Class of 1998 Mr C. A. Duru Miss E. E. Nesbitt Miss H. J. Barker Mr D. J. Horlock Mr A. Macro Mr D. B. Condon Mr N. E. Litten

[Bottom] School prefects taken in 1917 and [top] a selection of prefects 2016–17

Class of 2008 Miss S. Ivkin Miss L. Corbett Mr I. Pridvizhkin Miss C. Zhang Mr A. Lam Miss P. Zamam

70

71

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

FROM PHYTOLOGY TO FINANCE WITH OE

Victoria Muir What inspired you to study for a degree in botany/ plant biology?

At school, the sciences and fine art were my strongest subjects; I had a somewhat romantic vision of botanical prints and Victorian botanist explorers and thought this could be a way to marry my strengths! In reality it wasn’t quite as romantic as envisioned, but it had its moments – fungal foray anyone?

Tell me a little about why you chose to study at Royal Holloway and, later, at Imperial College London?

Royal Holloway was the classic campus-style university, and it was great to build relationships with students reading a broad range of disciplines. I would be lying if I didn’t say that I was a little swayed by the awesome Founder’s Building; living in a circular turret was a unique experience that I look back on with the fondest memories.

I won a scholarship to do my masters in plant pathology and pest management at Imperial. Imperial is still one of the premier universities, with global recognition. Additionally, it was close to Royal Holloway, and all my friends and contacts to whom I had grown accustomed. At Imperial, I studied at Silwood Park, Ascot, which was Imperial’s botanical gardens, crop fields, and botanical research centre. Thus, it had a very specialised feel, with lots of postgrads and plant-mad folk! I also really liked the area and still live nearby today.

Was studying at an all-girls’ school a hindrance or strength at university?

I’ve never really thought about it. I don’t think studying at an all-girls school has ever put me at a disadvantage.

I was fortunate enough to build so many wonderful friendships; I still see most of my classmates, and have just returned from skiing with two of them. When I was in the Sixth Form we would go to Caterham School for general studies on Monday afternoons, and we swam there (in the old pool) throughout my time at Eothen. My mother was a school secretary at Caterham, and I had a boyfriend there too, so I had pretty close links with a more male-dominated environment anyway!

How did your degrees help you in your first role as a business support supervisor?

I think one of the skills that has been most useful in my City career, which I learnt from my degrees, is analytical ability. That is, the ability to process a large amount of data, and quickly ascertain what the key themes are. This allows one to take decisive action, which is particularly useful in business leadership.

Another skill university taught me is the tenacity to get through long projects. This manifests itself as research work at university (a six month masters’ research study and dissertation), but in the world of business and finance, could well be a company restructure, fund launch, new market entry, or marketing program. 

The Caterham School Society

Victoria Muir (OE 1980 – 1989) was a pupil at Eothen School for Girls before it merged with Caterham School. Now working for Invesco Perpetual as a Non-Executive Director, Victoria told the editor how you really can go from studying plant biology to a career in the City.

72

73

OMNIA

Issue 02 Spring/Summer 2017

I liked university, but I have always enjoyed City life more; I love the fast pace, the full-on nature of it, and the hilarious banter with so many colleagues (now friends) over the years

I’ve always held the view that university teaches you to write better, and be disciplined to meet goals, and that the topic you study is less relevant. My first job was at an inter-dealer broker in the City, and it bore more than a passing resemblance to the film the Wolf of Wall Street.

I bored my friends rigid while watching that film by repetitively exclaiming the similarities (minus the illegal parts, of course!). A sense of humour was the most important trait in that role, and it even quoted that in the job advert as an essential trait! There were 650 applicants for two places. I got lucky, and the first task I was given was to write to all the unsuccessful candidates...

Is there a common trait or traits between you and your colleagues?

Fast thinking; there’s just not time to faff about, as focused decision making is required. I would like to think my immediate colleagues are also very client-orientated.

What do you do at Invesco Perpetual?

In my job at Invesco I am a non-executive director on the board of one of their investment trusts, Invesco Perpetual Select Trust. This is a publicly listed investment company on the London Stock Exchange and my role, and that of my fellow directors, is governance oversight of the company and its service providers. The trust has four contrasting portfolios, which gives me exposure to

four different investment strategies, their fund managers, and the views of Invesco’s wonderful economist, which is a privilege.

What would you say has been the most useful advice anyone has ever given you?

I’m not sure that I’ve ever been given much advice – I tend to be self-taught, and that is the way I like it.

My parents didn’t put too much pressure on me, they just said something along the lines of, “we can’t make you study, you have to make your own choices, but if you don’t work, and you end up on the till in Woolworths (showing my age now!), that will be your decision”. I believe that drive, determination, and the energy to succeed come from within.

What advice would you give to those aspiring to work in the asset management/investment field?

It’s hard work, is often cut throat, but the rewards can be good. It’s not all about academic qualifications, as the right personality is far more important. The most important things to remember are that life and work are all about relationships, but you must deliver the assignments and objectives too. Oh, and the customer is always right! Make sure you focus on market demand and customer needs, not internal challenges (too many larger businesses make this mistake). 

The Caterham School Society

74

OBITUARIES RICHARD CHARLES GRAYSON (OC 1953 – 1960) Richard will be remembered as an astute lawyer with a highly analytical mind. Having won a scholarship to Caterham School, he went on to study Law at Kings College, London. He practiced with a firm in Winchester, Hampshire before joining Woodside Burmah being seconded to Perth in 1972 as the Legal and Lands Manager. He was heavily involved in contractual activities with their partners, and state and federal regulators culminating in the development of the North West Shelf. During their time here in Perth Richard and his wife Christine forged many of the friendships still in existence today.

Returning to the UK in 1975 Richard worked briefly for Burmah Oil before joining The British Petroleum Company where he worked as the Group Company Secretary until his retirement in 1995.

Following his retirement Richard, as a consultant, assisted in establishing the appropriate compliance and governance policies for many major companies including The Guinness Group, Commercial Union, and British American Tobacco. Despite his success Richard was a very modest and dignified businessman and gentleman. He was warmly regarded for his ethical and professional approach as well as for his genial sense of humour and quick wit.

Richard also devoted time in voluntary roles including that of Deputy Chairman for Abbeyfield, a charity providing aged care and housing.

Most recently, he applied his professional skills assisting the board

COLIN GEORGE and executive of Western Australia’s only Bone and Tissue Bank, PlusLife, to establish documentation to comply with new governance requirements.

Without his contribution the charity may have been forced to close in June 2016 having helped over 15,000 patients including 300 children with cancer.

(OC 1937 – 1947) Memorial Service held on Saturday, 29 October, 12 noon, at St John’s United Reformed Church (Corner of Somerset and Mowbray Roads, New Barnet, Barnet, EN5 1RH), and was conducted by a Quaker leader.

Richard is survived by his wife of 53 years, Christine, three daughters, and seven grandchildren, several of whom reside in Perth, and two of whom still attend Caterham School.

His inspiring advice, unfailing support and encouragement for friends and family will be sorely missed.

(OC 1938 – 1945) Obituary originally published in The Telegraph.

Obituary written by Graham Reynolds, Richard’s best friend

PETER BRADSELL

Bradsell – Peter MBE, BSc, CEng, FIET. Peacefully on 6th June 2016, predeceased by his wife Margaret Elma (née Gurney) and son Richard Arthur (Dick). Much loved by daughter Helen Mary Vautier, son-in-law Nigel Vautier, daughtersin-law Vicki Sarge and Eline Bosman and adored granddaughter Beatrice Bradsell. Funeral was held on Friday 24 June 2016 at the Isle of Wight Crematorium.

IN MEMORIAM Mike Duffy (OC 1993 – 1996) Roger Berrett (OC 1948 – 1956) John Tidball (OC 1945 – 1952) Robert Cato (OC 1941 – 1946) Denis Ward (OC 1933 – 1941) Stephen Emery (OC 1964 – 1969)

Caterham School Harestone Valley Road Caterham Surrey CR3 6YA caterhamschool.co.uk oldcaterhamians.com