Kestrel Autumn 2015

Duke of Edinburgh Gold Expedition

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Promming in the park

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The newsletter of King Edward’s Witley Telethon 2015

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issue 29 Autumn 2015

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

This issue of Kestrel comes to you with input from the Sixth Form journalist and photography teams.

Royal opening for Queen Mary House

that HRH The Duchess of Gloucester has been able to open the wonderful new Queen Mary House and of course to spend time with the staff and pupils and celebrate our new partnership with Barrow Hills School as part of the Bridewell Royal Hospital Foundation”.

The iconic building was originally a convalescent home when it was first built in 1867, becoming a boarding house for the first girls

at Witley in 1952, and has featured in a number of TV and film dramas including Agatha Christie’s Poirot!

Not only has the House undergone a transformation on the inside, the external parts of the building have also received a facelift, with the gabled roof, chimneys and intricate brickwork being restored to their original appearance. Further pictures of the work can be seen on the school website.

Staff and pupils were delighted to welcome Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Gloucester (GCVO) to King Edward’s on the morning of 16 September, to officially reopen Queen Mary House (QMH) following the completion of its £1 million refurbishment programme.

The Duchess visited in her capacity as President of Bridewell Royal Hospital, the charitable foundation that operates the School, and was given a guided tour of the Lower School House by proud House Captains Daniel Pieterse and Ella Anderson, who were keen to show her their new accommodation, stopping off for refreshments in the Day Room before visiting the boys’ and girls’ dorms.

Whilst there, the Schools’ Royal Patron took the time to chat a while with the team that helps to keep the House running smoothly, not only House Parents Nick and Vicki Rendall, but also Matrons, Resident Tutors, Australian Gap year Students and members of the domestic team.

Emma Tindale, here on her gap year from her home in Western Australia, was thrilled to meet a member of the Royal family. “She was really lovely and wished us an enjoyable year in the new House.”

Commenting on the special occasion, the Headmaster, John Attwater said, “It has been a wonderful day. We are delighted

Outstanding IB results Our pupils celebrated success in their International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma exams published early in the summer.

For the second year running an impressive 75% of subjects taken in the exam were graded at the equivalent to A-level A*-B grades.

Carolin Hunkemoeller scored a world-class 43 points (out of 45) – the average score for IB students is 30 points out of 45. Five candidates scored in the 40s and, overall, pupils from King Edward’s achieved an average points score of 33.4, well above the worldwide average and the best result since 2009.

Commenting on her fantastic result, Carolin said “I am just delighted with the result.”

The majority of pupils gained places to their first choice university with many heading to top Russell Group universities, studying courses from Electrical Engineering and Biochemistry to Economics, Politics and Aerospace Technology at institutions such as UCL, Imperial College and Exeter. Hannah Dalgleish, from Godalming, secured her place to study Chemistry in Edinburgh having achieved 40 points at IB while Amber Miller, from Frimley, has begun Ancient History at Bristol. A number of this year’s leavers, including Carolin, are choosing to pursue their higher education abroad, travelling as far afield as Canada, the USA and Switzerland.

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Carolin Hunkemoeller pictured with her father on results day.

Commenting on the School’s IB results, the Headmaster, John Attwater said, “It is great once again to see so much hard effort pay off for this year’s leavers. They were a super year group who contributed a great deal to school life in all sorts of ways, which the IB and their chosen universities have recognised. I am delighted we can share in their success now on their way to some very bright futures indeed.”

A full list of our leavers’ destinations can be found on the website at www.kesw.org.

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Academic

1st Form learn about Jewish culture A group of 1st Form pupils visited Reading Synagogue and Northwest Surrey Reform Synagogue with Mrs Janet Pearce, Head of Religious Studies & Philosophy and Miss Laura Carey, Teacher of Religious Education and Philosophy. Laura Carey reports.

Sixth Form pupils have access to resources at the University of Surrey to assist with the Extended Essay

The Extended Essay – a lesson for life Mrs Janny Harris, School Librarian and Extended Essay Coordinator, explains the importance of this compulsory component of the IB The Extended Essay is a journey that every pupil should undertake before embarking on the challenges that university demands.

Undertaking a research project in the shape of an extended essay is like taking an expedition of exploration, self-reflection and discovery. Pupils embark on the voyage of writing their selfdirected piece of research as Sixth Form pupils and complete it as undergraduates, ready to take on the world beyond King Edward’s. It is an incredible transition.

The task is to write a research paper on a topic of their interest, with the support and guidance of their subject specialist supervisors.

Even once at university, Old Witleians still write to tell us how useful and helpful it is for them having done the extended essay.

Clementine Nash (2007-14) commenting on her experience at the University of the West of England, says: “I am doing my first big assignment at university, which is just like the extended essay and I thought of you. I just wanted to email you to thank you for all the advice and referencing information you gave me as it is coming into good use once again! I am ahead

of everyone else because I know how to do it. Having done the extended essay I feel more confident going into assignments, like I’m a step in front of everyone else. I find it easier to focus on what I need to write rather than the layout or the referencing.

The experience has meant that I can enter into big tasks without worrying or getting stressed. Personally I felt the benefits of the skills acquired doing the extended essay within the first months of university.”

Pupils are encouraged to use effective research methods and, as the University of Surrey is a partner institution of the School, our pupils are lucky enough to be given access to its extensive resources and research capacity.

Following the Summer Term exams, a group of Lower Sixth English and Theatre Studies pupils visited the university to begin work on their Extended Essay, starting with a search of the university’s vast database. Everything from Indoctrination to Middle-Eastern Theatre was investigated, with In-yer-face Theatre and the occasional Victorian Bildungsroman novel scattered across the desks.

We can’t wait to see the final result.

Ecological research close to home

At the Orthodox Synagogue, the Rabbi showed us the stained glass windows showing symbols from God’s Creation and the Ark of the Covenant where the Torah scrolls are kept. Then members of the community presented various Jewish traditions such as Bar/Bat Mitzvah, a Sabbath meal and festivals such as Passover and Sukkot.

It was particularly interesting because it was interactive and we enjoyed some typically Jewish food such as Latkes (Jewish potato cakes) and Matzo bread.

At the Reform Synagogue we learned that the men and women sit together and the building was more modern. We had a chance to blow the Shofar (ram’s horn) and also look at the Torah scrolls up close (using the yad – pointer) so that we didn’t damage it.

We had an informative day and enjoyed our insight into the Jewish faith, and the community members were impressed by the knowledge and maturity demonstrated by our pupils.

1st Form pupils enjoyed Latkes and Matzo bread at Reading Synagogue

Another year of great GCSE results Later in the summer, it was the turn of our 5th Form to receive their results. Almost all pupils (95.5%) achieved five A*-C grades which sets them up for further study at A-level or the International Baccalaureate.

Mr Clive Saunders our Head of Biology and Mrs Ann Hill, Head of Science, led a group of Lower Sixth biologists on a two day, local ecological excursion. Josef Moore wrote this report.

Having found a suitable river site near Elstead, the pupils recorded data regarding the abundance and diversity of the wildlife: a key aspect of the IB syllabus. Inevitably, water gushed over the rim and into the boots of the lucky few who had to go into the river’s course! In the afternoon the groups headed to a local heathland, in Hambledon, run by a resident nature enthusiast, whose aspiration for the area was to restore the habitat that he explored as a young boy. The group looked at another aspect of their syllabus here: succession. Due to the staggered nature of Mr Dean’s work there were varying degrees of restoration to explore, with work having been carried out in 2007, 2011 and 2013 a plethora of flora could be seen blossoming in the summer sun.

species: a truly incomprehensible number of seeds. The visit was rounded off with a “back to nature” picnic on the grass next to the particularly friendly ducks.

Personal triumphs included Surrey pupils Izzy Watson from Godalming (8A*, 1A, 1B) and Tom Martis-Jones from Kingston (6A*, 4A). Tom said, “I am surprised and absolutely delighted, I’m off to celebrate and will be back in September!”

Day two included a trip to Wakehurst Place, which houses the world’s largest seedbank, created in celebration of the Millennium.

The pupils were briefed upon the aims of the facility, the running of it and, most importantly of all, its capacity to restore extinct species.

Fierce debates, regarding the economic sustainability and moral requirement for ecological conversation, were sparked, with the room of young biologists very much divided by this discussion.

The pupils were then given the chance to enter the actual seedbank and stand just metres away from 10-15% of the world’s wild plant

L6th biologists collect data

A-level teaching returns to King Edward’s Teaching of the new A-level curriculum has begun alongside the IB and the pupils are enjoying the fresh challenges. Five new subjects will be added from September 2016. See our website for further information.

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Commenting on the results, the Headmaster, Mr John Attwater, said: “It is really gratifying once again to see pupils of a range of abilities and talents fulfilling their potential and in many cases exceeding expectations, thanks to a lot of hard work and excellent teaching. Naturally, exams are not the only measure of a good education, but they are important indicators of progress and our students can certainly be very proud of what they have achieved.”

Contact the editor marketing@kesw.org /King Edward’s Witley

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Academic & Co-curricular

Gold D of E in Chamonix

Duke of Edinburgh gold expedition to Chamonix As most pupils prepared for their travels home for the summer holidays, eleven Sixth Form pupils had a rather different adventure ahead of them. Matthew Reed reports.

On 3 July the party set off for Chamonix and the beautiful Alps, which would be the setting of the latest Duke of Edinburgh Gold Expedition. Following two days of travel to the campsite, the collective, including five members of staff, arrived at our new home for the next four days of hiking, navigation and the overall enjoyment of being with friends in such a breathtaking landscape during the assessment of such skills.

Split into two groups, we commenced a friendly rivalry in completion of routes to the best of our abilities over the four days, covering new areas of the Alps on each day of exploration whilst making climbs in elevation of nearly 1000 metres. Being treated to the occasional cable car and ski lift ride only added to the incredible experience, which was deeply memorable for all of us.

As the final day drew to a close we all felt the immense accomplishment that the trip had allowed us to achieve in continental Europe, Conor Harmsworth, describing the adventure as “awe inspiring”. All of us felt that if more pupils knew about the extraordinary opportunity that the Duke of Edinburgh Award provided beyond the Bronze level, many more would jump at the chance to join us and hopefully that will be the case for many of the future expeditions at King Edward’s.

Mrs Ben Giaber spoke to Café Scientifique

Café Scientifique hosts visiting Psychologist Mrs Ben Giaber On Thursday 14 May, Mrs Malak Ben Giaber came to talk to the Café Scientifique about her career as a Psychologist. Her main interest is post-traumatic stress disorder and she has had considerable experience of treating patients in Libya, where she lived and worked for many years. Mrs Ann Hill, Head of Science, reports.

This talk attracted a large number of pupils who packed the Biology laboratory (I lost count after 40). They were not disappointed because Mrs Ben Giaber gave a fascinating overview of her route into Psychology. Having completed the International Baccalaureate at the Frankfurt International School, Mrs Ben Giaber started a university degree course in English and American Literature. She then discovered her interest in Psychology and was able to start a degree course (the IB allows for such flexibility since by studying 6 subjects, the Diploma holder has expertise in a wide range of skills, including mathematical and scientific subjects) and currently she is working on a Master’s degree in Psychology. She emphasised that Psychology incorporates a strongly scientific element combined with counselling and talking therapies. The two interact to provide a holistic treatment for each patient. The Science provides evidence of significant changes in the brain to a patient who has post-traumatic stress disorder, including over-activity of the amygdala (part of the brain that processes emotional information and is associated with strong

fear-based reactions) as well as measurable reduction in the size of the hippocampus and the anterior cingulate cortex. In order to treat such a complex disorder, the patient has to unlearn their fear responses and this is achieved by using various different therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy or psychotherapy, usually in conjunction with anti-depressant medication. Mrs Ben Giaber described the team work used by health care professionals to treat this condition and explained the role of the Psychologist.

After her talk, the pupils asked many questions and we adjourned to the Science Meeting Room to have a more informal question and answer session. As a result of her talk, there are a number of pupils who are considering Psychology as a career possibility. Mrs Ben Giaber is a parent of two pupils who are currently at King Edward’s. We would be delighted to hear from other parents who have science based careers who can offer to join our Café Scientifique programme of events and share their expertise with the pupils.

Westminster visit In June, a group of 4th Form and Lower Sixth pupils visited the Houses of Parliament and the Inner London Crown Court. The pupils sent us this report.

We were lucky enough to start the tour by gaining access to the House of Commons before it was closed for Prime Minister’s Question Time. We were all very impressed by the decoration of the Palace of Westminster; especially the Royal Court and the Queen’s throne designed by Pugin and found in the House of Lords. We just missed the protest by Disabled People against Cuts but saw a group of wheelchair protestors making their way through Westminster Hall. It was only later we realised what we had missed.

Following lunch and a sojourn at the Imperial War Museum, we continued on to the Inner London Crown Court where we were given a tour by the Court Administrator, Therese Curran and were privileged to have an open and frank Q and A session with a resident judge, His Honour Judge Roger Chapple. We also were able to experience a working court and saw how and why court proceedings take so long. The highlight of the trip was a visit to Court 3 where we heard the prosecution set up the case against the defendant. Just as we were all convinced of his guilt, the defence began to question the evidence whereby our opinions began to change. Much discussion ensued once we had left the court as to the level of guilt of the defendant.

We could not make up our minds, so realised how difficult it must be for the jury. Thank you very much to Mrs Saunders for organising the trip.

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Co-Curricular Former Governor Richard Burge with Mrs Alison Saunders, Mr Keith Forster and Sixth Form pupils

Diplomacy matters We were honoured to host Richard Burge, Chief Executive of Wilton Park, for a Bridewell Lecture to members of the Lower Sixth Form in the Summer Term.

Wilton Park is an executive agency of the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office and provides a neutral environment where strategic discussions can be expressed openly with an aim to reach compromise and resolution. Despite his important and

busy schedule Mr Burge, who is a former School Governor and Bridewell Fellow, was, as ever, generous with his time and led a serious and insightful discussion on global politics and worldwide extremist organisations. At dinner afterwards Mr Burge encouraged

pupils to increase their global knowledge and we benefitted from Mr Burge’s anecdotes, not all so grave, of the global scene. At the end of the event Josef Moore, Head Boy, thanked Mr Burge for a “thoroughly fascinating and thought-provoking evening!”

Lower School Summer France Trip In the first week of the summer holidays, 12 intrepid adventurers from our 1st, 2nd & 3rd Forms embarked on the overnight coach journey that would lead to a week of exciting adventures in Southwest France. Mr Phil Humphreys, Head of Geography reports Next stop La Rive – close to Arcachon. 30 degree heat and bright blue skies greeted us when we got off the coach.

These were to remain a constant feature for the rest of the trip!

Based as it is on an inland lake it is an ideal location for water sports and we made great use of them, taking part in activities such as Dinghy and Catamaran Sailing, Windsurfing and Kayaking.

Everybody made fantastic progress, even when attempting things for the first time!

A day out at the local seaside resort and an evening climbing Europe’s largest sand dunes to view the most amazing sunset added to the experience. All too soon though it was time to get back on the bus for the return trip home, which unsurprisingly was a lot quieter than the one there!

Pupils enjoyed water sports in South-West France

Maia makes a mint Maia Shouksmith (3rd Form) was shortlisted among 6 finalists out of 6000 entries for a new £1 coin design.

The new £1 Coin public design competition was launched in September 2014. The winning design was revealed by the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rt. Hon. George Osborne MP.

Grafton House created a mini-beast town.

Scrap heap fashion by Tudor House

Scrap Heap Challenge

Although Maia did not win, she did get the opportunity to go to Number 10 Downing Street where she met George Osborne, Lord Waldegrave and the CEO of The Royal Mint.

Accompanied by her mother Mrs Caroline Shouksmith, who is also Head of Art, she was given a tour around Number 10 and even sat at the table in the Cabinet! As her award, Mr Osborne presented Maia with her own design on a poster. Caroline Shouksmith said: “We are honoured that he could fit in a visit the day before the Budget”. Her design was prototyped at The Royal Mint Museum for public view and Maia will be invited to The Royal Mint where she will have the chance to ‘strike’ a coin.

The School is very proud of Maia for making it so far into the competition and creating such an eye-catching coin design.

The annual Scrap Heap Challenge was a great success with very high quality entries in the art and mini-beast habitat sections.

The theme of endangered species produced papier mâché sculptures of a turtle, albino lion, tiger, hedgehog, rhino, pandas and an intriguing red snake (species unknown). The Fashion Show was great fun with wonderfully embellished upcycled clothing as well as recycled newspaper confections. The highlight for the environment was the outstanding mini-beast habitats that are now in the school grounds. It is hoped that these will soon be populated by a multitude of helpful invertebrates as well as become a home for hedgehogs.

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Queens’ papier mâché Panda

Maia Shouksmith pictured outside No.10 Downing Street with her £1 coin design.

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Music & Drama

Promming in the park

Crowds enjoying the sun and the sounds

There were many uncertainties in the lead up to Proms in the Park; the weather, the audience and even pupils getting back from foreign trips in time to perform! However all this was swept away once the sun came out and the concert and BBQ started.

Mr Stasio Slivka, Director of Music, reports on the event.

What a great celebration of the breadth and quality of musical talent here at King Edward’s. It was wonderful to see so many pupils, parents, Old Witleians, staff and other visitors enjoy the evening in such a perfect location. Music being performed on the Heart, and being at the cultural heart of the School, seemed a perfect way to celebrate the final weekend of term. What a pleasure it was to watch over 100 pupils performing in front of an audience of nearly 300 and having so much fun doing so! It was great to see some Old Witleians, parents and staff performing alongside pupils in various ensembles throughout the evening and I hope that this is something that will continue to develop. Thanks must also go to Godalming Band for opening the evening with great aplomb.

Mr Stasio Slivka, Director of Music, conducts the orchestra made up of pupils, teachers, Old Witleians and parents

Knapton Cavill Lower School Theatre Company legacy can make presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream musicians of everyone King Edward’s is in a unique position to offer lessons on an orchestral instrument to all new pupils in the 1st and 3rd Form thanks to a legacy bequeathed to the School in 2011.

The scheme is now entering its fifth year with nearly 100 pupils having benefitted from music lessons to date, and it is encouraging to see healthy numbers continuing with a range of brass, string and wind instruments. The joy of learning a musical instrument can stay with people throughout their lives but does require commitment and regular practice.

Research has proven the positive effects of learning an instrument, playing in an orchestra or singing in a choir on pupils’ academic work. In addition the social benefits of group music-making are numerous.

In performances on 25 and 26 June, Shakespeare’s magical play received a contemporary twist by our Lower School pupils directed by Miss Julia Collington. As GK Chesterton famously remarked, a good production of this masterpiece produces “an uproarious communion between the public and the play” and from early on the company had the audience spellbound. Mrs Sharon Gleave, a Sixth Form parent, reviews the play.

Set in ancient Athens the play portrays the events surrounding the marriage of Theseus, Duke of Athens, and his bride Hippolyta, weaving a tale of the adventures of four young Athenian lovers (Lysander, Hermia, Demetrius and Helena) and a group of actors (The Rude Mechanicals) who are bewitched and manipulated by the mischievous fairies of the forest, in which most of the action takes place.

The four principal characters delivered good performances with special mention for Helena (Ella Anderson) who won our hearts with her flirty and vibrant characterisation of a coquettish lover. The simple set, evocative of a magical garden, established atmosphere as the whole cast weaved a spell of mirth and good humour, love and passion - ‘the course of true love never did run smooth’.

The company produced some solid performances, particularly from the Mechanicals’ “play within a play” where a boisterous Bottom (Dontae Jacobs), the errant weaver, charmed us with his exuberance and comic genius, and cheeky cameo character Snout (Julian Sanchez) as the “Wall” between Pyramus’ and Thisbe’s gardens. We particularly enjoyed the beat box renditions of Bottom and Quince (Amna Jamil), and the fairies’ version of “Lullaby” giving the play a truly contemporary feel, and in the words of the Bard ‘we come not to offend, but with good will. To show our simple skill, that is the true beginning of our end’. Well done everyone.

The Music Department has a team of 15 highly qualified and committed teachers who teach in the department and share their passion for music with around 150 pupils in lessons each week. This year’s scheme launched at the start of term with a recital in the Selborne Room, inspiring many of those new to King Edward’s community to take up an instrument.

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Art

Pupils take inspiration from Damien Hirst at the Lightbox IB Visual Arts pupils were invited to exhibit their work at the contemporary Lightbox Gallery and Museum, Woking.

The stunning creations were developed in response to an earlier visit to the Lightbox Gallery, to view some of the controversial and challenging work of Damien Hirst, the wealthiest living contemporary artist. Under the expert guidance of Abi Hall, Learning Director, and Heather Thomas, Learning Officer at The Lightbox Gallery, the pupils discussed the iconic artist’s style and were encouraged to consider their own interpretations of the meaning and symbolisms within the show.

On returning to the School, the pupils took up the challenge to produce their own work inspired by their understanding of Hirst’s art career and renowned approach – within just three weeks. The reward for their endeavours was the opportunity to show their work at The Lightbox Gallery, at a time when the gallery was also featuring a show by Damien Hirst and a selection of 20th Century British Art from the private collection of Chris Ingram.

Heather Thomas, Learning Officer at The Lightbox, with Caroline Shouksmith with work inspired by Damien Hirst.

Mrs Caroline Shouksmith, Head of Art, was delighted with the results and commented, “We are so proud of the way in which each individual worked with flair and creativity to create their own Damien Hirst inspired work of art. Our pupils have delivered some really good work and the maturity that they showed in addressing some very difficult themes is to be commended. Few artists of their age can claim to have had their work exhibited in the same gallery as the illustrious Damien Hirst.”

GCSE Art A selection of pieces from last year’s 5th Form pupils

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OUTREACH

Junior Netball Tournament 200 girls congregated under perfect blue skies for this year’s U10 and U11 Prep Schools’ Netball tournament.

Once again, we were delighted to host this annual event, with girls competing in good spirit from 14 local Prep Schools.

Cheers and whoops echoed around the courts, not only from the girls playing in the matches, but also from parents watching from the sides offering encouragement and support.

The U10 tournament was played all the way to the end as a round-robin and, by winning all eight of their matches, Amesbury regained the trophy from last year’s winners, Hoe Bridge, closely followed by Thomas’ Clapham and Barrow Hills in 2nd & 3rd place respectively.

The U11 tournament was played in two groups with the top two teams in each group going through to a Semi-Final stage.

1st place was won by Hoe Bridge (last year’s U10 winners), with 2nd place The Study Prep and a 3rd place play-off between two Thomas’ Schools, Fulham and Clapham, saw Thomas’s Clapham take home the 3rd Place pennant.

Maths and Science Challenge Day An ever-popular event in the Prep School calendar is our Maths Challenge and Science Day which sees 11 teams of Year 5 pupils compete in this friendly competition. Although there are no “winners” on the day, the teams always want to know who scored the most points!

The children take part in a half day Maths Challenge, consisting of a series of 40 fun, logic puzzles, putting their problem-solving skills to the test, and spend time in our science labs, conducting experiments to produce forensic evidence to solve the murder of Ronald McDonald.

This year’s teams came from Aldro, Amesbury, Barrow Hills, Belmont, Greenfield, Hall Grove, Haslemere Prep, Hoe Bridge, St Andrew’s, Woking, St Hilary’s and St Ives. And who scored the most points? Well that would be telling...

Pupils volunteer for Summer Reading Challenge King Edward’s pupils spent part of their summer holidays at Godalming Library supporting this initiative. Remi Trovo, a 5th form pupil from Godalming, told us how it went.

After a long and relaxing summer holiday, we embraced the opportunity to carry out some voluntary work for the Surrey County Council’s “Summer Reading Challenge”, an event that encourages children from the ages of 5-11 to read between 2 and 6 books during the summer holidays, with lots of prizes being awarded along the way.

At first, I was unsure of how to do this job, but the experience quickly turned into a genuine pleasure. Talking to the children I got to meet was an incredibly enjoyable experience and one I’ll certainly never forget. Their love of reading and willingness to talk about what they’d read highly impressed me, and I took great pleasure in giving prizes to them. My experience was a truly multinational one as well as I got to meet Spanish, Italian, American and even Chinese families!

I would like to thank the School for this wonderful opportunity and highly recommend that you should get a taste of what this job is. Working with children is so much fun and, furthermore, it gets you a reference for university.

Football coaches conference In June the School hosted a conference for teachers who coach football in independent schools. Mr Dan Abraham, King Edward’s Director of Football, reports.

The conference was very popular with 60 delegates signing up to attend the day. In addition 20 talented footballers from Prep Schools across the South East participated in the practical demonstrations.

Clara Fermor-Dunman gave a fascinating presentation on developing injury prevention strategies and improving athletic performance in children. Mark Leigh, FA Regional Coach Development Manager, then conducted a practical session on grass pitches which examined formations and preferred styles of play. Following an excellent lunch in the school dining hall, George Delves, Head of Education at Sheffield United, ran a practical demonstration to examine coaching styles and the role of the coach.

It was an excellent day, in glorious sunshine, enjoyed by delegates and players!

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Profiles

Richard Arch Mr Richard Arch, a former Economics teacher at a London independent day school for girls, has joined King Edward’s to take up the position of Academic Director of Sixth Form and IB. The role at King Edward’s combines teaching economics to IB / A-level pupils with the provision of support and guidance to help students progress and reach their full academic potential – in line with individual growth objectives.

Commenting on his new appointment, Mr Arch says, “Having spent time teaching in an international school environment, I relish the opportunity of working with pupils representing a diverse range of nationalities, cultures and backgrounds. I was very impressed by the School’s extensive bursary system, which engenders a balanced pupil population that is consistent with the real world. I am looking forward to helping pupils realise their personal learning targets and to encourage them to doubt their limits and focus on a positive ‘can do’ approach.”

Maria-Eleni Pevreall Mrs Maria-Eleni Pevreall has joined King Edward’s as the School’s new Head of Biology.

Mrs Pevreall, who was born in Greece and educated at a British school in Athens, has been teaching for 15 years. She has lived in the UK for 24 years. Her previous posts include a four-year stint as a Senior Lecturer and Course Leader of the Foundation Degree in Paramedic Science at the University of Portsmouth and four years at a local independent boarding / day school for boys aged 8-18.

A graduate of the University of Surrey (where she gained a BSc (Hons) in Medical Microbiology) Mrs Pevreall went on to achieve her Masters in Immunology at Kings College London and her Post Graduate Certificate in Teaching and Learning at the University of Portsmouth. She also went on to attain her GTP-QTS from the University of Chichester.

Mrs Pevreall is also a keen horsewoman and has competed in Greek national competitions in the discipline of show jumping.

She is now passionate about dressage and rides at Prix St. George level.

Mrs Pevreall says, “I am really looking forward to this new chapter in my career heading up the biology department and teaching to GCSE pupils, as well as to those studying in the Sixth Form following either the new A-level or the IB course at King Edward’s Witley. When I was called for interview I was very impressed by the ‘thorough and organised’ culture which permeates throughout the School, which of course bodes well for a progressive learning environment. I want to inspire my pupils to be more inquisitive and more interrogative in their approach to biology and of course that will involve encouraging active participation in experiments and a range of biology trips that are currently being planned.”

Angus Macmillan Mr Angus Macmillan is the new Housemaster of Wakefield House, and Teacher of Design & Technology.

Mr Macmillan, a graduate of Loughborough University, spent eight years as Head of Design & Technology at Alleyn’s, a London independent co-educational day school, and has amassed a total of 14 years as a teacher there and at Oundle School in Cambridgeshire before that. Throughout his career, Mr Macmillan has also developed extensive skills and expertise in the provision of pastoral care and has been involved in a wide range of co-curricular activities including CCF, sports coaching, Duke of Edinburgh’s awards and various clubs and societies.

As Housemaster of Wakefield House – a senior boys’ house – Mr Macmillan is responsible for 32 boarding and 16 day boys, with the additional support of a Deputy Housemaster, a Matron and a team of experienced tutors.

Commenting on the new role, Mr Macmillan says, “I am delighted to be joining the teaching staff at King Edward’s and look forward to a role which allows me to focus more strongly on pastoral responsibilities. As an independent boarding / day school, I was particularly drawn to the chance of working with children from a broad range of backgrounds and circumstances.

I applaud the School on its diverse pupil population and for shunning the stereotypical view of an independent boarding school, by welcoming pupils capable of demonstrating academic prowess from outside of the traditionally affluent, privileged sectors.”

Mr Macmillan has taken up residence at Wakefield House with his wife Antonia (a speech and language therapist) and their young puppy!

Anna Small Miss Anna Small joins King Edward’s as Head of the Food Technology Department Miss Small joins King Edward’s following three years of teaching at a military secondary school in Cyprus. Prior to this she worked as Head of Catering, running the Food Technology and Catering Department, at King Alfred’s Academy in Oxfordshire for three years.

Commenting on her new position, Miss Small says, “I am very much looking forward to teaching the pupils of King Edward’s where it is very apparent that a strong ethos exists in terms of educating and developing the whole person, as opposed to an over dependence on academic achievements alone. I have been really impressed by the keen sense of community that permeates throughout the School and am excited by the opportunity to extend the appeal of Food Technology following the recent changes in the curriculum. Pupils will be encouraged to examine the provenance of the food that we eat and to investigate the ethical decisions affecting food production. There will of course also be a significant emphasis on eating and cooking healthy foods and snacks and recognising the important role that food plays in our lives. The catering at the School is excellent and I am keen to establish a stronger link between the study of food technology and linking this with the day to day decisions being made by Holroyd Howe, the on-site catering team.”

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Sport Wakefield Senior winners and Inters runners up 2015 – thanks to the mascot!

Sports Day 2015 Sports Day this year delivered one of the hottest days and hottest competitions in recent years.

The Ridley inters did not disappoint, with an outstanding display in the 4 x 100m relay, and overall victors of the Inters boys’ competition.

The field event of choice was the high jump in which Roy Osodi broke the Junior Boys’ school record and the inters boys competition came down to a tight contest between Charlie Rudge and Kamran Hussein, with Kamran eventually taking the victory.

Roy also showed immense prowess in the track events, sprinting his way to victory on more than one occasion.

Sports round up The Summer Term saw a resurgence of cricket at King Edward’s, with a large number of boys involved across the School, in over 42 cricket fixtures. Max Batchelor was an outstanding addition to the cricket squads, scoring a number of 50s in 1st XI cricket, despite, then, only being in the 4th Form. In the Lower School, boys who had not previously picked up a bat competed for the School, most noticeably beating Bridewell rivals, Christ’s Hospital.

Rounders was the sport of choice for the girls and yet again the U15s particularly impressed with a long unbeaten run at the start of the term. The U13 girls all had the opportunity to represent the School and showed great improvements, culminating in an excellent festival of rounders with our new partners at Barrow Hills School.

The U16 footballers had another good run in the ISFA competitions, but the greatest success was perhaps the U16 futsal (5-a-side indoor football) run in the national competition, being crowned district champions. Both U16 and U18 futsal teams won the King Edward’s tournament against increasingly difficult opposition. Hockey has a promising future with the U14 team particularly looking very strong, led by Captain Tom Fuller who played in the National finals for his hockey club.

The outstanding girls’ athlete of the day was Bola Abayomi, who won the 1500m trophy with relative ease and led the Tudor team to victory. We also saw an impressive 800m run from Sophie Cummings in the Junior Girls’ competition, which was won by Teresa House. Wakefield seniors not only clocked up a handful of 1st places, but took many of those all-important 2nd places to leave them well ahead on points at the end of the day and the eventual winners of the trophy.

Wakefield and Grafton fight for 1st place in the Senior 1500m, which was eventually won by Grafton

Here come the girls...

After 19 years at the School, there is not a lot that, Football Coach, Mr Andrew Wyciechowski does not know about training 11-18 year old boys and girls!

Mr Wyciechowski originally joined on a part-time basis as an in-house football coach and after six years went on to become Assistant Housemaster for Edward House.

been talent spotted by the ladies team at Milford Football Club and they now regularly train with the squad there, in addition to maintaining their team responsibilities for the School.

But Andrew’s (universally known as Wishy) greatest legacy will undoubtedly be the pivotal role he has played in pioneering girls’ football at the School.

Aside from the obvious attraction in terms of delivering an excellent physical work out, what other benefits does Andrew see for the girls that participate in the sport? “I’ve certainly witnessed a significant boost in self-confidence and self-esteem amongst any of the pupils who’ve decided to take up football.

In addition being able to cite involvement in the girls’ team on a CV automatically provides an interesting point of difference when reviewing candidates for a university place and is generally well received, especially if the application is sports related”.

Prior to joining the School, Wishy ran a successful football coaching business and had even had the opportunity to play soccer in the US during the 80s and 90s. It was whilst he was based in the States that he recognised the massive potential to roll out in the UK, what was still then a sport primarily reserved for ‘the boys’.

Up until ten years ago, girls attending King Edward’s generally played both hockey and netball at the School. But a passing request from a former local pupil, Hannah Grealish, for Mr Wyciechowski to consider coaching a girls’ football team was literally all it took to get the ball rolling.

So girls’ football is definitely blossoming at King Edward’s. One former pupil has gone on to play for Cambridge University; another has been selected for the ISFA National Team. It is only a matter of time before a pupil goes on to take up the game professionally. Watch this space!

The girls’ football team started out with just eight pupils but very quickly started to attract the attention of other girls in the School, keen to make their mark in what had previously been such a male dominated sport. In their very first season, the girls’ team won the ISFA (Independent Schools Football Association) U15 league and since then there have been numerous accolades culminating in winning the first ever ISFA Under 18 South Eastern League in 2014. The standard of girls’ football at King Edward’s is such that a number of girls have KESTREL } AUTUMN 2015} ISSUE 29 09

Development

Telethon 2015, widening participation Emma Harrison, Development Manager, reports the first telephone fundraising campaign for King Edward’s Witley took place in late summer. A team of eight young Old Witleians took to the phones, with training and supervision from the leading consultancy in the sector, Rux Burton Associates, and had conversations with fellow Old Witleians, current and former parents and former staff of the School.

The King Edward’s Witley Telethon Pioneers (l to r) Michael Parker, Comfort-Diane Owusu, Jessica Emsley, Sarah Tout, Ollie Hall, Issy Egerton, Phillip Arach & Brolin Stevenson-Twontoo

Our aim in embarking on the first telephone campaign was not just to raise money. We aimed to re-connect with Old Witleians, and former parents and staff of the School, to establish a closer relationship and more dialogue and see how members of our community might support us in our plans for the future.

We had contacted all call recipients before the campaign by post or e-mail, and had received some opt-outs as expected, but we still did not quite know what the reaction would be on the phones. We were to be pleasantly surprised. We had an overwhelmingly positive response to the initiative. We had fascinating conversations with over 500 people with call recipients sharing their experiences of School, back to the 1940s. We gained invaluable feedback about our current activities and plans.

And we raised over £62,000 in income and pledges to the School, mainly for the Bridewell Foundation for the provision of bursaries to children in need of a boarding school education, but also for smaller projects of immediate benefit to current pupils.

A big thank you to all members of the King Edward’s community who took the time to take the call, to our new and renewed donors and most of all to our pioneering call team.

From the calling room floor An insight in to the first King Edward’s telethon by Sarah Tout.

When I was contacted to see if I would be interested in taking part in the telephone campaign to fundraise for the Bridewell Foundation, I jumped at the chance. Not only would it be a fantastic bit of work experience, challenging me to hone my powers of persuasion, but it would also be a chance for me to give something back to King Edward’s, a place I am truly grateful to. However, as the beginning of the campaign loomed, I started to feel slightly nervous. Did I really have the guts to ask people for money? How would they react?

I really shouldn’t have worried. As the other callers and I gathered to begin our training, the atmosphere was not dissimilar to the first assembly of term, after a long summer holiday. As we chatted and gossiped, it occurred to me that the conversation was flowing so easily because we all had King Edward’s in common. We were all from different year and friendship groups, but all of us had called this school home at one time or another. As the calling began, my nerves started to melt away. Calling up fellow Old Witleians was brilliant! The conversations were full of funny anecdotes, nostalgia and stories of fascinating lives. Each donation, even when they were coming thick and fast, felt like a massive victory for our little team.

Some of the calls were somewhat challenging, particularly if they had not had an entirely positive experience at the school. It was sad to hear that the School was not always the welcoming environment I find it to be, but after hearing some first-hand accounts, I am proud to say the School has changed for the better.

Being a part of the telephone campaign was an incredibly rewarding experience. It was wonderful hearing of so much warmth and affection for the School that, along with its teachers, and the friends I made, is responsible for where I am today.

I think the whole idea of getting a recent leaver to ring up and chat is brilliant on a number of levels.

It is good for the recent leaver to understand that this is “pay back time” for all that King Edward’s did for them, whether or not they benefited from a bursary. It is also good for those of us “long in the tooth” to be able to talk, both about the school and also about the recent leaver – their hopes, ambitions and aspirations. All in all it was a very pleasant way of being reminded of one’s obligations, and being separated from one’s money!

Well done, and I hope the Bridewell Foundation does well out of the initiative Sarah Tout 10

Old Witleian, Wakefield 1955-61 KESTREL } AUTUMN 2015 } ISSUE 29

old WitleiAns And develoPment

Newly renovated school war memorial The World War One memorial has been restored to its former glory 95 years after it was first erected in September 1920. In memory of the 92 former pupils and 2 staff who died in the Great War 1914-1919, the monument was originally commissioned by our Alumni, then called the Old Boys’ Association and now called the Old Witleians’ Association.

Renovation work was commissioned and jointly funded by the Old Witleians, boosted through fundraising by the School’s Development Office and with the help of a grant from War

Memorials Trust to mark UK-wide Centenary Commemorations of WW1.

Stonemasons at Stone Edge Conservation of London used centuries-old stone carving techniques to clean and re-cut some of the lettering on the freestanding monument. Crafted entirely from Portland stone, it incorporates the Rose of England and the Oak as well as the school crest and will be known to many as it stands proudly at the front façade of the School.

A King Edward’s boy, a soldier and a mother’s legacy Richard Goff Corbett came to King Edward’s in 1910 aged 11. Richard’s occupation was in the school band and he was described as “very good”. When he left in 1915 he went straight into the band of the Seaforth Highlanders.

Richard died during the pursuit to the River Selle, which ended in the Battle of the Selle, on 13 October 1918 and is buried in Avesnes-le-Sec Communal Cemetery, Nord, in France.

The obituary in the KES magazine of April 1919 reads “.... was killed in France shortly before the signing of the Armistice in November last. “Nan” as he was affectionately called by everyone at School, was a fine happy lad and had a host of friends here….His death will be deplored by all, and we tender our deep sympathy with his mother in India on the loss of her only son”.

Our thanks to School Archivist, Marilyn Wilkes, for the biography and Richard Goff Corbett’s great-niece, Helen Louise Townend for permission to print it. Mrs Townend writes, “The full story of Richard’s memorial had not been known to the family until this wonderful discovery through the kind help of Marilyn Wilkes who found Richard listed in our family tree on Ancestry.com. Richard’s loss was keenly felt by his family and that sense of loss was passed down to subsequent generations.

Recovering Richard’s history helped to bring him back to his family. Most importantly it helped us to understand our great grandmother and her grief at the loss of her nineteen-year-old son.”

Richard’s mother died in 1932 and left a bequest of her whole estate to the school. In 1935 the bequest was used to build a covered way to the new Dining Hall. We still use the walkway and benefit from its shelter today. The plaque near Copeland commemorates this bequest.

Thanks to the generosity of the Old Witleian donors, further repointing work to the memorial, approved by War memorials Trust, has recently been completed and a special Remembrance Service and Whole School Eucharist will be held at the School on 11th November 2015 to which all members of our community are welcome.

The 1553 Guild Pledging a Legacy

Legacies to the Bridewell Foundation have been vital to our founding mission over the centuries, enabling us to provide bursaries for children in need of a boarding school education and pastoral care.

This need continues today at King Edward’s Witley.

John Attwater, Headmaster

SUPPORTING THE SCHOOL’S FOUNDING MISSION Please consider a legacy to the Bridewell Foundation and join the 1553 Guild of legacy pledgers. 1553 Guild members receive a certificate from the Headmaster and invitations to special events throughout the year.

As a registered charity (no. 311997) a legacy to the Bridewell Foundation is in most instances tax free and if you leave 10% or more of your taxable estate to charity then you will qualify for a reduced rate of inheritance tax.

For further information and advice about pledging a legacy please contact the Development Office: T: 01428 686773 E: development@kesw.org

Old Witleians’ Summer Reunion The annual Reunion Day and AGM of the Association took place at Witley on Saturday 27 June. The Chapel service, thoughtfully put-together by the School Chaplain, Rev Dr David Standen, included an excellent rendition of Parry’s “I was Glad” by the school choristers together with several Old Witleians. The theme for this year’s reunion was arts and crafts, particularly handicrafts. David Standen’s sermon described in detail how the Chapel’s interior showcases the woodworking skills of past pupils under the guidance of the late George Cooper. As always the service concluded with the School Hymn, but this time we were treated to a new arrangement, by Old Witleian Tim Grant-Jones (Grafton, 1966-73).

Marilyn Wilkes, School Archivist, for the work involved in putting this together.

In the evening, King Edward’s held its first ever “Proms in the Park” featuring musical performances and a BBQ with Old Witleians mingling with current pupils, parents and staff.

This was a real treat to end a lovely day. The Old Witleians’ Association are indebted to all the King Edward’s staff for making this happen.

A splendid hot buffet lunch by the school caterers, Holroyd Howe, preceded the Association’s AGM and the Headmaster’s School Report in the Selborne Room. Mr Attwater’s topics included the merger with Barrow Hill School, in Witley, the renovation of Queen Mary House, which has now become a mixed Lower School House, and an update on the academic side, including the re-instatement of A-levels alongside the IB. Next came King Edward’s v Old Witleians cricket match and tours of the School. With this year’s arts theme, there was an opportunity to delve into the school archives and look back at past school productions and musical events. We are indebted to KESTREL } AUTUMN 2015 } ISSUE 29

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Old Witleians and Development

A great northern reunion

D iar y D ates Wednesday 11 November King Edward’s Witley Remembrance Service, Witley

A huge thank you to Alison Rundle (née Bell, Queens’ 1972-8) who initiated, planned and hosted the first Northern Reunion of Old Witleians in Newcastle on 25 July. Due to popular demand this will now become an annual event.

One of the things that struck me about it was the commonality of our company. Many of the people there I didn’t know from school, but it was easy to make connections. Not just the experience of the School, but also that (nearly?) all of us were James Knotters (sponsored by the Sir James Knott Trust). Despite the vagaries of our various lives there was an underlying certainty of a certain broadly similar world view and understanding, a niceness and our humour (which many people don’t get). It was marvellous for me to be among you all

Sunday 22 November Old Witleians’ Autumn Sports Day (football, netball, mixed hockey), Witley Wednesday 25 November Mary Bevan Soprano concert, Witley Friday 4 December School Concert, Witley

Caren Moffett, Elizabeth 1970-77 Sunday 13 December Taste at Christmas food and craft fair, Witley Friday 18 December Bridewell Fellows’ lunch, Witley (by invitation) Tuesday 8 March 2016 Bridewell Day, St Bride’s Church, London (by invitation)

German reunions The Headmaster hosted our first reunions of German-based Old Witleians, current pupils, parents and friends in Munich and Hamburg this June. Our thanks to Alexander Koenig (Edward 2012-14), Anne-Kristin Sturm (Queens’ 2010-13) and Dinazad Tutcuoglu (Elizabeth 2004-6) for organising.

A fair day of golf In perfect weather the Old Witleian golfing fraternity convened at West Surrey Golf Club on Thursday 9 July for the annual King Edward’s Witley & Old Witleians’ Golf Day. The Old Witleians welcome participation from the School and we were pleased to see all members of our community represented. A wonderful day of golf played in good humour and friendly competition on perfect fairways, but savagely fast greens, was rounded off with the traditional socialising and trophy awarding ceremony

afterwards. Gwyn Phillips gave our special thanks to Clive Saunders, Head of Biology and King Edward’s Golf co-ordinator, who is taking a sabbatical from teaching next year. And we welcomed Ivor Caplin (Edward 1970-7) as Old Witleians’ Association Golf Ambassador to help us promote and grow the Golf Day both at the School and among the Old Witleian community in to the future, honouring the aims of the founders of the Old Witleian Golfing Society of 1979.

Wednesday 16 – Friday 18 March School Production, A Shot in the Dark, Witley Friday 18 March 2016 1553 Guild & 1867 Society, donor event (by invitation) Saturday 2 July 2016 Old Witleians’ Summer Reunion, theme to be announced, Witley For more information contact oldwitleians@kesw.org Keep up to date with news and events at www.kesw.org/owa Join the Facebook group Witleians” Follow us on Twitter #OldWitsEvents

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