Edwardian No 29

Issue 29 | Winter 2019

From the Head Introducing the new Head Welcome to the Autumn edition of The Edwardian magazine. It is my absolute pleasure to be writing this introduction to your magazine from my office here at King Edward’s as the (still reasonably) new Head of the School, having taken on the mantle from Julian Thould, my illustrious predecessor, at the end of August.

I am keenly aware of the privilege and responsibility my new role brings, and this was never more acutely felt than when I read An Illustrated History of the School by former Head of History, Graham Darby, over the summer. It seemed to me, as a new arrival to the School and city, that King Edward’s long and distinguished history has been measured through a series of either inspiring or else insipid Headmasters… so no pressure there, then!

But actually, of equal weight and importance in Mr Darby’s book, and more important in my eyes, has been the impact on the city, region, and country of generations of King Edward’s alumni. For me, the School’s continued ability to support and nurture young men and women who go on to be leaders and trailblazers for the wider public good is one of the most inspiring aspects of my new role at King Edward’s. If a school is to be anything of worth, it must educate both academically and morally, whilst also giving pupils the self-confidence and resilience to make the most of their passions and talents. It is here that King Edward’s truly excels.

This is highlighted again in this very magazine, celebrating as it does the considerable achievements and inspiring stories of former pupils. Whilst I can claim no credit for such extraordinary successes, nonetheless you will forgive me if I suggest on behalf of colleagues, both past and present, that a King Edward’s education will certainly have played a role in these accomplishments.

So I hope that you enjoy reading the magazine as much as I have done. I hope too that you look back on your own time at KES as inspiring, rewarding and (most of all) happy! It sounds a bit of a cliché, but I truly do believe that every KES leaver remains very much a part of our school family and community. I would love to hear more from you and to hear your own personal story about life after school; and I would especially love for you to come and visit us - to rekindle your relationship with your school, and perhaps to seek to inspire the next generation.

Neal Parker Head

Do we have your email?

Please notify us of any changes to your contact details, particularly if you think we may not have a current email address for you.

Alternatively, if you no longer wish to receive this magazine or any further correspondence from the School, you can unsubscribe from our mailing list at any time.

In both cases, please email edwardians@kes.hants.sch.uk stating your full name and date of birth.

Privacy Notice

Join our KES network group on Linkedin

Join our KES alumni Facebook page

To ensure you fully understand how we use your personal data, we have updated our Privacy Notice. It can be found at: https://intranet.kes.hants.sch.uk/site-guide/privacy-notice

2

www.kes.hants.sch.uk

News from the School Farewell to Julian Thould The end of the summer term saw major change afoot for King Edward’s with the retirement of longstanding Head, Julian Thould. Amongst many other occasions held to mark this momentous occasion and give thanks for his service, Mr Thould was treated to a personal leaving video, produced by our very own Mr Blow and starring many of the staff and pupils here at KES. To view it visit: https://vimeo.com/347734586 Alan Morgan, Chair of Governors, reflects on Julian’s time at the School: Julian Thould started as Head at King Edward’s in April 2002, joining KES from King’s School, Worcester where he was Deputy Head and Director of Studies.

Very early on in his tenure it was clear to staff and governors that he was going to ensure substantial investment went in to the School and that has indeed happened.

This has included the purchase of the Rural Studies Centre at Lovaton, Wellington Sports Ground and Stroud School, and the development of the Dobson Theatre, Science and DT block, Art Department, Sixth Form Concourse, Dining Room and Dance Studio, Curriculum Support classrooms, Hospitality Suite, new Music Recital Room and Recording Studio, additional music practice rooms, Fitness Suite, extended Sports Pavilion and the recent refurbishment and extension of the Library, to name but a few.

Julian has been a first rate educationalist, a tireless worker and has been a real figurehead for the School. He works late into the

castles in his annual model making competition with his History classes.

evenings in his office, throughout his weekends and during the holidays. However, throughout all of this he has still maintained his calm and composed manner and has truly given everything to King Edward’s.

He has always embraced and engaged in the fun side of life at School including abseiling through the Main Hall ceiling to support a student with their platinum Duke of Edinburgh award and scaling the heights of the mangle during the 450th anniversary celebratory ‘It’s a Knockout’ competition. He has also regularly impressed students with his guitar playing, had wet sponges thrown at him in the stocks during the many Arts and Science festivals and even been licked by a python in Biology.

In numerical terms, Julian has appointed all but twenty-five of the current staff, read and commented on over 17,000 full reports, delivered over 700 assemblies and term services, spent over 600 Saturdays watching sport, admitted 2,244 First Years to the School, consumed somewhere in the region of 2,900 school lunches and given out hundreds of dignioras and dignissimas and even more merit awards.

He will be moving to Cornwall and will spend his time between there and his house in France. He fully deserves to enjoy his retirement and spend some time with his family. He has been a wonderful Head and has given up so much for this school; we are all indebted to him for his unwavering service.

Julian has a real passion for history and many First Year pupils will have long-lasting memories of spending hours building the most magnificent motte and bailey

3

KES unveils new Library space After three months of dust, demolition and building work, the stunning newly refurbished and extended library opened in time for the start of term. The spectacular new space allows for additional study and reading areas for students and staff alike, in a bright and contemporary setting with increased capacity.

4

A picture perfect portrait

King Edward VI Goblet awarded

To mark the end of his 17-year tenure as Chair of Governors, following his retirement last year, the School commissioned a painting of Brian Gay to hang in the Commemoration Room. Alastair Adams, Royal Society of Portrait Painters winner and acclaimed portrait artist was commissioned to do the work. His dynamic but natural and unassuming portraits have earnt him many high profile commissions and acclaim through national and international exhibitions. The painting has been on display at one of Alastair’s recent exhibitions and will be rehung at School now that the library refurbishment has been completed.

The King Edward VI Goblet is the highest accolade awarded to a student, and is presented at the annual Prizegiving ceremony, in any given year that there is deemed to be a worthy recipient.

In September, following seven years at King Edward’s, Aelfred Hillman received the goblet for his contributions to school life and his individual achievements. Aelfred is an exceptionally talented musician and gifted academic and artist. In the summer, his A Level Art examination piece, ‘Seven boys and a Magpie’ was not only selected for the inaugural Royal Academy of Arts Young Artist’s Summer Show, but also received one of the two prestigious prizes for submissions in the key stage as well as the prize for ‘Most inspiring artwork’. In his painting, Aelfred explores how our three-dimensional world is transformed onto a two-dimensional surface. This involved constructing an image that revolves around a central viewpoint with distortion used to bring out character and direct the eye.

A single magpie suggests at the subtle impossibility of the image and its trapped balance.

www.kes.hants.sch.uk

Leaving Staff In addition to Julian Thould there have been several more longstanding members of staff who have retired this year.

Mr Allen

Rev Poppleton

Mr Wood

Bob Allen has been at King Edward’s for the past 29 years.

He was appointed by Colin Dobson in 1990 as an Assistant Master in charge of IT and developed the role becoming Director of Communications and, subsequently, Assistant Head (Digital Strategy) in 2006.

Mr Allen has taught ICT, computing and Extended Studies and we have him to thank for all the computers in the school; the first ones being placed in the library over twenty years ago. Since then he has introduced iPads, smart boards and the Wi-Fi. Under his leadership, King Edward’s was the first School in the UK to have Leased Line Internet Access (a dedicated internet cable) and he has been responsible for developments of all school IT systems including the website, management systems and more recently the schools 1 to 1 iPad initiative. A keen sailor, he organised and helped with a number of school trips during his time at KES, including kayaking in Sweden, numerous watersports excursions to the south of France and scuba diving in Honduras and Indonesia. He has been an active member of the school Sailing Club as a sailing and powerboat instructor and also organised the School’s first swimming gala and a number of other initiatives including the KonnEctionS newsletter and school reading scheme. He will be fondly remembered by all staff for his sense of humour, his patience and kindness.

Julian Poppleton was originally appointed in 1989 to teach A Level Geography and RE. Between 1999 and 2002, he trained for ordination at Sarum College (whilst teaching full-time) becoming KES School Chaplain in 2002, and Stroud School Chaplain in 2012, under the Bishop of Winchester licence. Rev Poppleton has been a tutor in the First Year, Lower School and Sixth Form and a source of support for countless KES pupils and staff. He has managed all assemblies and services, including Thanksgiving Services held in Winchester Cathedral, Carol Services in Romsey Abbey and at St Mary’s church. He has conducted funerals, memorials, weddings and dedication services.

Awarded a sabbatical in 1999, he used this to develop and pioneer the PSHE programme, which he then led from 1999-2004. He has been part of the Extended Studies team since its inception, presented to Open Forum with the Sixth Form, and through Foundation Studies, has set up various community projects, run film studies, and latterly run the Forest School link with Stroud.

He has been involved in many cocurricular projects and school trips including running School Council, organising hospital visiting, heading up the Summer Camp project and Sholing partnership residential to Lovaton, as well as accompanying the Charlotte Exchange five times.

Julian’s departure will leave a huge hole as he is greatly loved in the school community but we are glad that, at least for a short time, he will remain as a visiting chaplain.

Richard Wood joined King Edward’s in 1983 to take up a two-term post as Head of Rugby. This subsequently turned into a thirtyfive year career. During his time at KES, he has held many different roles. For twenty years he was Head of Rugby and also coached the U16 side. He ran the U14 cricket team from 1984-2004 and the U13 hockey squad from 2005-2019.

There have been many notable team successes; of particular note though was the U13 side reaching the National Hockey Finals in 2016. Richard has also played a leading role in the PE department; managing Sports Day for over fifteen years, leading the Junior House sports programme, looking after boys’ P.E. for eighteen years before overseeing the whole of the P.E. programme in his final six years. He has also been a First Year maths teacher and a tutor in both the Lower and Upper school and Sixth Form. In addition, he took on the role of GAP year Coordinator for a number of years. Richard has participated in six rugby tours, a hockey tour to Holland and organised the World Tour of 2003 to celebrate the 450th anniversary of the School. In addition to this, he has been involved in twenty school ski trips. His compassion for the students, his desire to see them succeed, his patience and good humour, as well as his considerable organisational skills have ensured that many pupils and former pupils have benefited from his guidance.

The School will be a very different place without him.

Assistant Head (Digital Strategy)

School Chaplain

Head of P.E.

5

Tudor Pack (KES 2007-2014) In 2012, whilst still at school and studying for his GCSEs, Tudor Pack made headline news when he became Britain’s youngest solo pilot, flying a 100 mph microlight alone after just 20 hours of training on his 16th birthday. At the time, Tudor was planning a career as a commercial pilot following a stint in the Royal Air Force but what has he been up to for the past 5 years, and what inspired him to take to the air in the first place? We caught up with Tudor to find out.

“I have been interested in flying for much of my life, as one of my earliest memories was when my dad would take me to Southampton airport so I could watch the planes take off and land. At 15, as a birthday present, my parents paid for a trial flight at a flying club in Bishop’s Waltham and after that, I decided I wanted to pursue my PPL (Private Pilot’s Licence). While undertaking the training for this, I flew out of several different clubs. The first was a small club near Bishop’s Waltham in a microlight aircraft called the Ikarus C42.

When I decided it would be best to move on to light aircraft, which would give me some more options once I had my licence, I moved initially to Lee-on-Solent, followed by Bournemouth Flying Club. At this point, I was flying the slightly larger Piper Warrior and Robin HR20.

I am the only pilot in the family and hadn’t had much interaction with aviation industry in general beforehand. I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to try it as a hobby and follow it through.

After leaving KES in 2015, following my A Levels, I worked part-time whilst I prepared for the selection days at CTC aviation in Nursling with whom I trained.

CTC provide an ‘integrated’ course, which essentially means it is an all-in-one course where you study fulltime while living in-house with other cadets and study to a specific timeline. The integrated course lasts eighteen months in general and begins with a ground school course, which takes six months. In this time you study for the fourteen exams needed for the ATPL (Air Transport Pilot’s Licence), which are split into three modules. The exams are sat at the end of each module, and subjects include radio navigation, air law, aircraft systems and radiotelephony.

Following ground school, cadets move on to the initial flight-training phase. This is carried out in either New Zealand or Arizona and takes a further eight months.

This stage of the training is mainly in single-engine piston aircraft and is where cadets learn the basics of flying, as well as more advanced skills. Each cadet first flies with an instructor who teaches them handling techniques as well as the non-technical aspects such as airmanship and navigation. This is followed by a lot of solo flying time, either on general handling exercises or planned navigational flights, and usually takes place in a Diamond DA20 or, occasionally, a Cessna 152.

6

This is the VFR (Visual Flight Rules) stage of flying.

VFR involves the flying and navigating of the aircraft without the use of instruments, meaning you cannot fly through cloud or with the ground obscured. Navigation is based on flight plans that are made using charts and current weather, as well as through visual reference to landmarks. The end of the VFR stage is a long solo cross-country flight of 300 nautical miles (~540 KM), with at least three landings.

Once this is completed, cadets learn the basics of IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) flying, usually in the Cessna 152. IFR is the opposite of VFR, as flying is done without the use of the horizon or ground, solely using on-board instruments. This is a brief introduction to prepare cadets for the later stage of IFR training. They then move on to flying multi-engine aircraft in which they learn the differences in handling between singleengine and multi-engine planes. Much of the training focuses on aircraft handling during an engine failure or other abnormal situation and, upon completion of this phase; cadets undertake the Commercial Pilot’s Licence exam by flying with an examiner.

There is often a period of down time before the next stage of qualification commences although in my case, it started almost immediately with the Advanced IFR flying module in Bournemouth. Lasting two months, this part is shorter and involves solely flying in the multi-engine DA42 through instruments, only focussing more on using the ground based equipment such as VORs and NDBs to navigate, as well as learning how to fly instrument approaches. At the end, cadets once again fly with an examiner for the Instrument Rating qualification and once passed, possess all the required exams and documents to apply for a Commercial Pilot’s Licence.

The final stage of the integrated course is what CTC call the AOC (Airline Operators Course) and is designed to teach the newly qualified pilots the differences between flying as a single pilot in a light aircraft and flying in a multi-crew operation for an airline. It includes a JOC (Jet Orientation Course) to again teach the differences between a piston aircraft and jet aircraft, and an MCC (Multi-Crew Competency) course. The JOC takes place

www.kes.hants.sch.uk

in a simulator, which in my case was an older 737-300 fixed base simulator. The MCC is mainly a classroom-based course, but is also integrated into the JOC in that you are partnered with another cadet and so learn to operate the aircraft together in specific roles to achieve the set tasks.

At this point, a cadet has everything they need to find a job with an airline, and all the training with CTC is complete. CTC has many partnerships with airlines, as well as being recognised as one of the best training schools, and so airlines often recruit new cadets out of their holding pool. It was from here that I applied for, and successfully secured, a job with Wizz Air, after which I trained for

a Type Rating and completed the airline’s induction course before I started my line training flying regular day-to-day routes with passengers alongside a line training Captain. After line training, pilots are able to fly normally alongside regular Captains.

After nearly two years of training, I found myself in this position at the age of 21 and in my short time as a pilot, I have stayed in eleven different cities across Europe and have so far flown to eighty individual airports across thirty countries including Dubai, Tel Aviv and Kelfavik. Life is never boring! So much has changed since my first solo flight on my 16th birthday and I am looking forward to seeing more of the world doing the job I love!”

Abigail Sheppard (KES 2011-2018) Abigail Sheppard left KES in 2018 and is currently reading Biological Sciences at Hertford College, Oxford.

“In July 2019, I was lucky enough to undertake a monthlong expedition to Madagascar as an undergraduate research assistant with Operation Wallacea. I spent three weeks collecting data in the Mahamavo and Matsedroy dry forest region in the North West of Madagascar followed by a week at their marine site on the island of Nosy Bé.

The Mahamavo region has received relatively little study, yet supports considerable biodiversity including globally threatened plants, reptiles, birds and mammals. Flagship species include the Madagascan Fish Eagle, Coquerel’s sifaka and Angel’s and Oustalet’s chameleons. The forest is currently threatened by fires, charcoal production and agricultural expansion.

Operation Wallacea’s project is a landscape-scale longterm monitoring programme of multiple taxonomic groups. The aims of the research project are to identify which species are present in the Mariarano and Matsedroy forests, characterise spatial patterns and temporal trends in biodiversity, monitor the condition of the forest habitat, provide sustainable revenue to local villages and leverage further funding for environmental projects from the research results.

My day typically consisted of three surveys – morning, afternoon and evening. We were informed which surveys needed to be carried out by a notice board in camp. Often a morning survey meant we had to be up before the dawn chorus. Mist netting and bird count surveys began at 5:30am and we returned to camp at around 10am. These were my favourite surveys as we got back before the heat of the day! Afternoon surveys often depended on which camp we were staying at.

At base camp, or ‘Mariarano’, I often carried out a lemur survey, walking a 5km trail keeping an eye out for the local Sifaka, Sportif or Brown lemur groups and recording the number and behaviours of each. After a hearty portion of rice and beans, it was back out again at 7pm on a night survey. The most exciting night survey was definitely crocodiles! A local Malagasy man is kind enough to allow Operation Wallacea researchers onto his boat to survey crocodiles and wetland birds.

A search beam is shone across the river surface along a set survey route, whilst keeping a close watch for crocodile eyes, which reflect the light back due to crystals inside their retina in a layer called tapetum.

Lemur night surveys are carried out in much the same way. A survey route of about 5km is walked at night with headlamps surveying the treetops. Lemurs’ eyes reflect due to the same tapetum lucidum layer, giving them excellent night vision. Often mouse lemurs will spot you before you spot them! Other surveys included herpetological surveys, invertebrate surveys (including butterfly netting and arachnid capture), amphibian

7

surveys and scorpion marking to assess their distribution.

I was also able to carry out forest plot and canopy cover assessments, which are crucial for monitoring the recovery of the Mahamavo dry forests from the devastating effects of slash and burn agriculture. A unique feature of OpWall’s project in Madagascar is their relationship with DBCAM (Development and Biodiversity Conservation Action for Madagascar). DBCAM is committed to providing alternative livelihoods for the people who have always inhabited and used the Mahamavo forests to reduce the necessity for slash and burn agriculture.

In Nosy Bé I was able to make use of my diving qualifications – exciting since I had previously only dived in a murky UK lake!

OpWall also offered instruction for those who hadn’t dived before. The first dive of the day was at 8am, a leisurely start after the early forest mornings! I learnt the relevant survey techniques for marine conservation – this included benthic reef surveys, fish, coral and invertebrate identification and coral health surveys. The reefs were breath-taking, and one of the few places where you can see truly healthy coral; thanks to the strict regulations around Nosy Bé. I was lucky enough to receive lectures throughout the week from experts in marine conservation. These were invaluable for understanding the local reef ecosystem and engaging in practical conservation plans for how to protect them.

I am currently in my second year studying Biology at the University of Oxford. My time as a research assistant in Madagascar has allowed me to gain invaluable field skills and further my passion for ecology and conservation. Aside from carrying out a field-based research dissertation as part of my degree, I also hope to pursue a career in conservation and the application of ecological theory. I will treasure my time in Madagascar and hope to return one day!

Many thanks to KES for the Whittington Award towards funding this expedition and to everyone who donated to my Welsh 3,000s fundraiser!”

Dr Anna Jackman (KES 2000-2007) Anna Jackman is currently working as a Lecturer in Political Geography at Royal Holloway, University of London. She has recently been appointed as a Special Adviser to the House of Commons Science and Technology Committee Inquiry into the ‘commercial and recreational use of drones in the UK’ that will look at the ethical and safety implications of the growing use of civilian drones, of all sizes, across the UK. The inquiry reports that ‘Drones have had a range of positive impacts across a variety of industries, from commercial photography and aerial surveying, through to crop spraying and parcel delivery. However, following increased recreational popularity, there have been several suspected drone incidents, including dozens of ‘near misses’ between drones and aircrafts.’

8

Dr Jackman said: “ We’re at somewhat of a watershed moment with drones in the UK. It’s important, timely, and exciting to see this inquiry into the ‘Commercial and recreational use of drones in the UK’ taking place. Drones are anticipated, and associated with considerable opportunity, in a diverse and growing number of fields. However, they also remain bound to risk - associated with both negligent and malicious flying. Unfolding legislation and practice thus requires a careful and ongoing navigation, consideration, and mitigation of the full range of drone capabilities.

Acting as a Specialist Adviser is a great opportunity to contribute research expertise to an important policy, practitioner, and evolving space.”

www.kes.hants.sch.uk

Derek Edmond (KES 1961-1967) Earlier this year, we were delighted to welcome back Derek Edmond for a tour of the School. This was the first time he had set foot back inside the building for over 50 years.

“I was a pupil at KES between 1961 and 1967, having passed the 11+ exam; essential for entering the Grammar School system in those days. My intention was always to join the RAF and become a pilot.

However, in my third year at KES – aged 14 – I began singing with some friends in a classroom after lessons had finished – going through The Beatles, Rolling Stones and Chuck Berry type songs. I graduated to slapping the desk to get some kind of beat going with the songs and from there was born my longing be a singing drummer.

I bought my first drum kit on hire purchase, paying for it with paper rounds and a garage job, whilst still at the School. We formed into a band (of sorts) and did a few youth club gigs around Southampton. The band developed into quite a popular mod outfit, even playing gigs at the Guildhall (Mod Balls).

After a couple of years, when I was just turning 17, the band unfortunately split and I was subsequently approached by a well-known DJ in Southampton who was forming a new band playing Stax and Tamla Motown music. The other members were a formidable set of musicians who had been around the circuit for some time and it was obvious, when The Troggs manager took us on, that this was no longer just a hobby group. The band was called ‘John Drevar’s Expression’.

The band was approached by MGM management who were, at this time, trying to add music to their famous film repertoire. Happily, they signed us to record for them and we were assigned to a very large London agency who sought to obtain gigs for us. Astoundingly they came back with an offer to support Jimi Hendrix at the Olympia Theatre in Paris, together with a tour of Europe and the UK. All the band members decided to turn professional but, at just 17, I was still at school in the Sixth Form. I was caught in a dilemma as to what to do for the best – pursue a career as a pilot or go off touring with the band. An unfortunate incident with one of my teachers, who told me my hair was too long, convinced me that rock stardom was the way forward and I walked out of school.

And that is how it began and I did just that, spending three years on the road playing some fantastic gigs with bands like Jeff Beck, Rory Gallagher, Yes, The Troggs, Rod Stewart and releasing singles with MGM and Polydor and meeting stars such as Ringo Starr, Steve Marriot, Dick Van Dyke amongst others. It was every young drummer’s dream but it was not enough to sustain a living long term and in 1970, I gave it all up.

I remembered Dr Stroud’s words then, just as I do now, and whilst working as a clerk with Pirelli, went back to college to study accountancy with The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants. After a number of different short and long-term positions, I ended up as Finance Services Director with Whitbread, running offices in Luton, Sheffield and Liverpool, employing over 450 staff. I managed to secure early retirement at 50 and went back to school to learn to read music.

Since then, I have been a private drum teacher and have played in over 100 bands and recorded a number of albums.

I have experienced and learnt many things over the years, but Dr Stroud’s words of wisdom came at a pivotal moment in my life. I would always advise anyone to follow their heart but to leave themselves options as sometimes your heart makes the wrong decision and you have to be prepared to admit that and change direction. Heeding Dr Stroud’s advice gave me a chance to live the dream for three years on the road, but come back and qualify in order to be able to retire at 50. It’s a cliché, but there really is no substitute for hard work and whether it is a hobby, job or school subjects, most of us will only get out what we put in and that usually means some real hard graft!”

Unsure as to what to do either, my father took me to see the then Headmaster, Dr. L.J.Stroud. Dr. Stroud listened intently to what was happening with the band, and after a bit of straight talking, advised me, on the basis that it was a chance of a lifetime, to pursue the music project.

He told me that if it didn’t work out, I could always go back to college and get further qualifications. This did not please my father but he did support me from that day forward.

9

Alex Fordyce (KES 1995-1999) Alex studied Geography at Exeter University before completing an MSc in Real Estate at Oxford Brookes and subsequently securing a graduate training course at King Sturge, a chartered surveying practice based in London. He completed his APC and became a Chartered Surveyor two years later. After working for 10 years managing a high net worth family property fund, he set up Leopard Capital a UK focused commercial real estate fund in 2017. After a successful series of acquisitions in the industrial sector and with £12 M AUM, he is now raising for Fund 2.

Alongside his professional ambitions, Alex has wanted to solo swim the English Channel since he was a young boy – it has been a personal mission for over 28 years!

On 27th August this year, he finally achieved this in a time of 15 hours and 51 minutes.

Alex is no stranger to challenge. Having previously taken part in triathlons, the Marathon des Sables and an Ironman competition, he was used to tough conditions. However, the uncertainty and unpredictability of conditions out in the English Channel made this his toughest encounter to date.

Having first completed some base fitness training, Alex trained for nine months specifically to swim the Channel. This included cold water swimming during the winter period, building up to long distance split weekend Channel swims. The Channel can vary from anything between 15-17 degrees Celsius during August, so fortunately the cold-water training served him well as, by the time the summer came around, the sea felt almost pleasant.

The hardest part of the challenge for Alex was at the 12-hour point when the tide turned! He then had to swim for another 2-3 hours, fighting through the fast 4 knot current, into land, with the horizon actually moving away from him at one point as he moved down the coast horizontally. Throughout all of this, his determination and ambition kept him going. With a heavily pregnant wife and a baby due in 2 weeks, he knew he would not be getting another chance any time soon!

As the finish came after dark, Alex wasn’t even sure he was approaching the French coast until around 200m out when the support swimmers leapt in off the bow of the boat and swam alongside him for the landing.

“The water warmed and I felt sand on my fingertips at which point I knew I had made it - that was a magical feeling. I collected my French pebble off the beach, which has now become a tradition, and felt an enormous sense of relief and elation. Fulfilling my childhood ambition has given me the hunger for more and has made me realise that no matter how hard the challenge is that you set yourself, you can achieve that goal if you keep at it.”

Obituaries

John Rowthorn (KES 1939-1946) John Rowthorn passed away in July this year. He spent 39 years of his professional working life in the Town Clerks office in

10

Southampton, retiring as Principal Legal Assistant in 1986. In 1964, he was given a very important task and was sent to London, bearing a ‘letter of authority’. He made his way to The House of Lords, where he collected a box.

Packed carefully inside the box was the Royal Charter, granted by the Queen, containing the original official seal which bestowed city status on Southampton. The package was heavy and difficult to carry under one arm but realising how important the document was, John went back on the train straight

away, without even stopping to eat! John was an avid collector of books, some 10 thousand over the years and loved theatre and film.

On retiring, he undertook voluntary work with the RNLI and the Sailors Society as well as joining four literary associations. John leaves behind his sister, Mary, and his nieces Claire and Beth.

Anthony Stuart Corbidge (KES 1941-1949) Tony Corbidge passed away in April last year. He will be sadly missed by his widow, Mary, and his children.

www.kes.hants.sch.uk

Reunions Former Heads and Deputy Heads of School Dinner In June, representatives from the Heads of School and their Deputies, from as far back as 1955 were present alongside those who left just last year.

Despite the age difference between many of the guests, they discovered many things in common.

11

ThePoole Veterans Lunch The Poole Veterans enjoyed a convivial May. lunch reminiscing and catching up in

Forthcoming Reunions 2020 Class of 1994/1995 – 25 year reunion London Universities Dinner Poole Veterans’ Luncheon Capon Club Dinner Class of 1979 – 40 year reunion

12

17th Jan 6th March 6th May 12th June 26th June

7.30pm 7.00pm 12.00pm 7.00pm 2.00pm

at KES at Kings’ College London at KES at KES at KES

www.kes.hants.sch.uk

Class of 2009 10 year reunion

ed back the l was packed as we welcom In November, the Dining Hal successful st mo year reunion. One of our Class of 2009 for their 10i and mn alu 70 evening attracted over 10-year events to date, the ching staff. former members of the tea

13

OE Sport Golf There were five golfing events organised for 2019 and, for the first time, a new system was trialled with a different golfer taking responsibility for booking the venue and Peter Feltham managing the invitation process.

This method proved to be a way of ensuring a fairer distribution of effort, and will continue again in 2020.

Colin Cross arranged the Interhouse Challenge at his home course, Rowlands Castle. This is a combined individual stableford competition with the best two players’ scores per House counting for the team prize.

There were twelve entries, with first time player Hardeep Singh Basi (36 points) winning from David Creal on countback. In another first, Lawrence and Reynolds tied for the team prize with 70 points apiece.

Nick Creal co-ordinated the OE team for the second event; the annual Triangular Match versus the Old Tauntonians and the Old Symondians. Nick captained the eight OE representatives, who each played two separate matches simultaneously against the OTs and OSs at Hockley Golf Club. This was the 70th anniversary of the match, which resulted in a comprehensive OE win.

David Creal, Andrew McNaught and Paul Griffiths won both their matches and Guy Bewick and Nick Creal were also unbeaten with a win and a half.

Andrew McNaught organised the excursion to High Post Golf Club where thirteen OE players, including two guests, braved a very wet day to contest the Ray Paull Trophy. On a very exposed area of the plains above Salisbury, with experimental aircraft from Boscombe Down buzzing over every few minutes and 40mm of rain falling during the round, Guy Bewick proved his consistency and stamina and secured the win with an incredible 42 points; a healthy 7-point lead from second placed Howard Hilliker.

With this win, Guy Bewick propelled himself to the top of the Order of Merit table and became the 2019 winner.

The Order of Merit recognises the most consistent and successful golfer over all the events. This year there were seven golfers who ‘mathematically’ had a chance of winning on the last day.

The OE golf will follow a similar pattern for 2020. Dates and venues of events will be posted on the alumni section of the KES website. If you have not received a direct invitation, then please send your name and email address to Suzanne Hooper at the Development Office.

You will then be contacted with information about each event about eight weeks before play.

Peter Feltham (KES 1956-1963)

Howard Hilliker booked the traditional Stoneham Lane venue for the Wally Kemp Cup. Disappointingly, there were only eight entries with a solitary member from the host club. Howard duly won the event with a very creditable 40 points with David Creal winning the nonmembers cup.

About four years ago, James Lay initiated a new competition to encourage the participation of younger OE golfers who perhaps find it hard to play during the week. Played at the very prestigious Berkshire Golf Course, nine entrants took part in an Over 35s v Under 35s stableford competition on a lovely Sunday afternoon in July. The ‘Unders’ retained their unbeaten form with James Lay having the best individual score and Ian Bassett coming second.

Climbing A group of keen OE climbers, accompanied by Mrs Henderson and Mr Havers, travelled to Lovaton in September for a weekend climbing single pitch sites around Dewerstone and Sheeps Tor. From 2008 leavers, through to those who left this summer, a fun and challenging couple of days was had by alumni, united by a common love of this sport.

14

www.kes.hants.sch.uk

OE boys’ v KES 1st XI cricket match In June, the OEs played the School 1st XI in their summer cricket fixture. It was an enjoyable game for both sides but the batting of the OE side proved to be too strong for the KES team and they won by 25 runs.

The match was played in great spirit and it was good to catch up with some of our recent leavers. Thank you to all those who played, watched and helped to organise the event.

OE boys’ v KES 1st XI football team At the beginning of the new academic year, a team of OE football players took on the KES 1st XI side in the annual pre-season friendly match at Wellington Sports Ground.

It was a high quality game but, unfortunately for the OE side, the fitness and skill of the KES team prevailed and the School won 3-1.

Thanks to all the OEs who played and to Matt Stelling for organising the team. We look forward to seeing you all again next year for the re-match!

What happens next?

The School is always grateful to OEs who return to King Edward’s following their departure, to give advice and guidance on a wide range of topics to current pupils.

Last term we were delighted to see Tally Evans, George Budden, Alice McNicholas, Eva Carlyle, Harry Elton-Dobbin, Henry Thould, Rishabh Chugh, Emily Besley, Ethan Woodcock and Anna Cook, who all came in to school to speak to the Lower Sixth about university applications, how to choose the right course, writing a personal statement, what happens if you don’t get your first choice and uni life in general.

They gave some great advice!

They were followed a week or so later by a visit from Ayush Arora, Jordan Florit, Anna Goodison, Georgina Hill, Kathy Morten, Cameron Roberts, Anna Shadbolt and Jenny Swinn. They gave advice about their early careers and pathways since leaving school which provided a valuable insight for Sixth Formers.

15

Snippets Jordan Florit (KES 2005-2012) has successfully managed to crowdfund his project of writing a book on Venezuela through the lens of football. He set himself a target of £5000 and was able to hit it within 17 days by selling copies of the book on pre-order. The entire Kickstarter campaign is not-for-profit, with any proceeds going towards grassroots Venezuelan football.

With 45 pre-planned interviews arranged for the book, Jordan travelled to Venezuela for three weeks in October to conduct many of them. They included current international and former international players, domestic league players, managers, officials, and chairmen, as well as journalists, fans and experts.

For more information or to order a copy of ‘Red Wine and Arepas’ visit: www.kickstarter.com/ projects/redwineandarepas/ red-wine-and-arepas-bookon-venezuelan-football-andsociety?ref=creator_nav

Poppy Rosenberg (KES 2006-2011) and Michael Ellis (KES 2004-2011) both ran the Edinburgh Marathon earlier this year raising a total of £895 for Make A Wish UK. A few weeks after the marathon Michael proposed, and they are getting married next year, having met at School.

Helen Carter (KES 1996-2003) was selected to represent the South of England at hockey in the Women’s Over 35s Masters team in the 2019 Regional Tournament.

Chris Chapman (KES 1996-2001) has worked as a science journalist since leaving university and has written

for, among others, The Daily Telegraph, Nature, New Scientist and Chemistry World. His speciality is focused around discovering chemical elements and he published his first popular science book, ‘Superheavy’, last June. It details a history of element discovery, from the atomic bomb through the cold war to the modern day, and has taken him to every major lab in the field, from the US and Germany to Russia and Japan.

James Godwin (KES 1992-1999) was elected a Fellow of The Institute of Hospitality at the start of 2019, in part related to his role as Head of People Development for CH&CO, a large food service and hospitality company employs over 7000 people in the UK. He remains a volunteer for Hamble Lifeboat, having built up 23 years of service, and was voted in as Acting Chairman of Trustees in November 2018.

Ian Hewitt (KES 1958-1966) has been announced as the next chairman of The All England Lawn Tennis Club. As chairman of the club, he will be the face of Wimbledon.

Neil Forsyth (KES 1954-1962) has published a further book entitled ‘Shakespeare the Illusionist: Magic, Dreams and the Supernatural on Film’.

Lionel Coates (KES 1959-1967) has moved from Gozo, Malta, to the Burren, County Clare, where he continues to paint and exhibit. His most recent exhibition, entitled ‘A wider horizon’, featured in the Scariff Gallery in October and November 2019; and the next one will be in Clare Museum, Ennis, in April and May 2020.

King Edward VI School Wilton Road Southampton Hampshire So15 5Uq Tel: 023 8070 4561 www.kes.hants.sch.uk