Latymerian Summer 2023

SUMMER 2023

NEWSLETTER FOR LATYMERIANS (ALUMNI OF LATYMER UPPER SCHOOL)

The Asian Latymerian Council

THE NEW HEAD OF LATYMER UPPER SCHOOL

Susan Wijeratna has been appointed as the David Goodhew, who is stepping down after a decade of exceptional leadership of the as the new Head of Latymer Upper School

The Australasian Latymer Council

The Canadian Friends of Latymer Board of Directors

The US Latymerian Council

1964 David Godfrey - Treasurer

1965 Peter Taylor

1967 David Kendall 1968 Robert Stevens

1969 Simon Kisch

1976 Maciek Brzeski

1976 Jamie Grant 1980 Mark Bullimore - Chair

1989 Tony Hynes

1992 Anton Xavier

2004 Abi Ronan

2010 Josh Henderson

The Foundation Office Team:

Amanda Scott Executive Director, Latymer Foundation ams@latymerfoundation.org

Megan Bruns Director of Development mhb@latymerfoundation.org

Siân Davis Alumni Relations Manager sdd@latymerfoundation.org

Rhianna Williams Alumni and Communications Officer rpw@latymerfoundation.org

Natasha Nolan Bursaries Appeal Manager njn@latymerfoundation.org

Johanna Ingram Events Manager jci@latymerfoundation.org

Lisa Von Gehren Events Officer lkv@latymerfoundation.org

Ruta Kurtinaityte EA to the Executive Director rlk@latymerfoundation.org

Independent Consultants (Alumni Relations):

Sally Markowska sjm@latymer-upper.org

Nigel Orton latymerians@latymerfoundation.org

Chris Hammond latymerians@latymerfoundation.org

Latymer Foundation Office

Latymer Upper School

237 King Street, Hammersmith W6 9LR latymerians@latymerfoundation.org www.latymerfoundation.org

020 3004 0466

As a forward-thinking school that combines defining how independent schools can make a genuine and meaningful contribution to their community, Latymer’s ethos chimes of its history in its 400th year and to build and one of the most socially inclusive, is a great privilege and one that I am very much

WELCOME, MEGAN! OUR NEW DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

We are delighted to announce that Megan Bruns has been appointed as the new Director of Development for the Latymer Foundation.

Prior to joining us, Megan spent 15 years working with the alumni and supporters of King’s College London.

Megan starts at an exciting time. In 2024 we will be celebrating Latymer Foundation’s 400th anniversary and the culmination of our Inspiring Minds campaign.

Megan says, “I’ve been an admirer of Latymer’s peerless reputation for years. It’s wonderful to join at such an exciting and pivotal moment in the School and Foundation’s history. I have thoroughly enjoyed meeting members of the alumni community and can’t wait to meet more of you, especially during next year’s 400th celebrations. I look forward to continuing our mission to become the most socially inclusive independent school in the UK.”

ANNOUNCING THE NEW CHAIR OF THE CANADIAN COUNCIL

We are pleased to announce Jeffrey SIMONS (1962) as the new Chair of the Canadian Latymerian Council.

Jeffrey says, “I’m excited to become the new Chair of the Canadian Latymerian Council, having myself been a member since its conception in 2006. Over that time, I have seen fantastic leadership from our departing Chair, Trevor JONES (1957) in his 15 years of service, and I look forward to building on our success in the years to come.”

Did you know? Our councils encourage socialising and networking within each regional Latymerian community and act as a bridge to keep alumni in touch with the School.

For details on how to join any of our councils around the globe, please email us on Latymerians@latymerfoundation.org

If you’re based in Canada, make sure to join our Latymerians in Canada group on www.LatymerConnects.com

ALUMNI NEWS

CAREERS AND EDUCATION

n Duncan BLACK (1980) leads the Financial Regulation practice at Fieldfisher LLP, and has recently been appointed as a Fee-paid Financial Services Member of the Upper Tribunal, Tax and Chancery Chamber

n Andrew BROWN (2014) has started a new position as Research Scientist in Computer Vision and Machine Learning at Meta, New York

n Louis CAPLIN (2014) has started a new position as Senior Policy Adviser, Energy Response at HM Treasury

n Kalpana Jennifer CHARI (2010) has graduated from Imperial College London with a Master of Business Administration (MBA)

n Fred HOLKER (2017) has started a new position as Director of the School Exclusion Project

n Jonathan LEADER MAYNARD (2005) has started a new position as Parliamentary Academic Fellow in UK Parliament

n Sam MAHBOUBIAN (2001) has been promoted to Partner at Linklaters

n Hermione OLDHAM (2016) has been promoted to Assistant Producer at Arrow International

n Peter THICKETT (2014) has joined TRIPTK as a Strategy Director

n Anna WIRSZYCZ (2013) is now an Associate Director Wealth Manager at Coutts Bank

LATYMERIAN AUTHORS AND CREATIVES

n Isobel ADOMAKOH YOUNG (2011) was Guest Artistic Director at the King’s Head Theatre (London Islington) this spring!

n Calam LYNCH (2013) has joined the cast of Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power , alongside fellow Latymerian Augustus PREW (2006). Augustus (pictured) is also playing Tony Adams in ITV’s Nolly!

n Alan MCQUILLAN (1966) has had one of his photographs shortlisted for the Royal Academy of Art’s Summer Exhibition in London –for the second year in a row!

INSPIRING LATYMERIANS

n In February, four Latymerian creatives - Architect Oli BRENNER (2013), animator, illustrator and footwear designer, Jocie JURITZ (2010), make-up and prosthetics artist in TV, theatre and film, Naomi SERENE (2002), and sought-after fashion photographer and filmmaker, Oliver PEARCH (2008) visited us on King Street to speak to students about their careers and passions on Creative Industries Day!

n Sam MILLER (1979) has launched his new book Migrants: The Story of Us All

n Maddie MORTIMER (2014) has been shortlisted for the 2022 Sunday Times Charlotte Aitken Young Writer of the Year award, for her novel Maps of Our Spectacular Bodies

n Dr Martin NIXON (1982) has published a book on Italian Architecture - Architecture, Opportunity, and Conflict in Eighteenth-Century Sicily

n Graham SEEL (1968) has published Conflicted Faith, his devotional commentary on the Holy Sonnets of John Donne.

n Ruby THOMAS (2009) has now had three of her incredible plays performed at The Hampstead Theatre – Either, Animal Kingdom, and most recently, Linck and Mülhahn

On International Women’s Day 2023, we were delighted to welcome Lily ROSENGARD (2013) live from New York, as she spoke to students from Latymer and our partner schools.

Lily is a Global Education Policy and Advocacy Specialist at Plan International, which focuses on education in emergencies for girls and young women. During the talk, Lily discussed their work and career to date, from leaving Latymer to addressing the UN last October on youth engagement and the digital gender gap!

Augustus Prew

Martin WADE (1961) celebrated his 80th birthday in February with a special lunch that included fellow Latymerians in attendance. Here he is pictured (R) alongside his sister, and his school friend, Peter LEWIS (1962).

Professor David PRICE (1974), who is also a Governor of the Latymer Foundation, has celebrated a noteworthy year.

David has reached 40 years of service at University College London (UCL), where he is a Professor of Mineral Physics. After 15 years in post, David has just stepped down as UCL Vice-Provost for Research and Innovation, but is enjoying new appointments to the Council of Loughborough University, and as an international advisor to Tohoku University in Japan. David was also awarded an OBE in the New Year’s honours list.

Holly SOMMERS (2016) has released a five part podcast series for the International Science Council, Science in Times of Crisis. The series delves into the complicated relationship between geopolitics and science, asking what we can learn from the past, what are the challenges of the present, and what diplomatic solutions we can begin implementing in the future to ensure a more resilient science sector.

Chair of the US Latymerian Council, Mark BULLIMORE (1980), recently met up with Jan BIEGALA (2022), a former US Latymerian Bursary holder.

Jan is currently finishing his gap year, and will join Bsc Economics and Management at Bocconi in Milan later this year.

Hugh BROWN (1969)

“At the princely age of 73, I’m still racing motorcycles! I currently hold eight UKTA (UK Timing Association) land speed records on my 1970 Triumph Bonneville production motorcycle - as pictured.

These records have been obtained for top speed and ¼ mile racing in 2019 and 2021 at Elvington airfield in North Yorkshire. My top speed for the mile is currently 117.946 mph, but I hope I can better that speed this year.

Production racing has strict regulations meaning modified chassis, oversize engines, and non-standard pump fuel are not allowed. However, engine internals can be modified to try to obtain extra power.

I fully restored and tuned the motorcycle myself, with many changes to the standard internals of the engine, including experimental parts.

Both changes to the dynamometer and the experimental tuning I performed have provided me with a good power boost, but I have one calculated change to make before the next records’ meeting - so it is back to the dynamometer for now to see the results... fingers crossed!”

RECENT NUPTIALS

n Taymoor ATIGHETCHI (2007) with his bride, Sophie.

n Edo LAWRENCE (2011) with his new wife, Aluet. At Edo’s wedding Latymer’s Director of Music, Tony Henwood, saved the day when the original Organist failed to show! Tony was at home when the call came, but was at St Peter’s Church, Hammersmith in a flash! The Lawrence family kindly donated to the Latymer Foundation’s Bursaries Appeal as way of thanks.

n Damian VESEY (2004) was joined by a whole host of Latymerians from the Class of 2004 at his wedding to Lucy!

n Matt WHITCHURCH (2011) and his new wife, Syd.

Not only does Latymer Connects keep you up to date with our latest news and the exciting alumni events that are open to you, but it allows you to network and discover opportunitieswhatever your field of study and career path.

Matt Whitchurch

Edo Lawrence

From the back row left to right: Jack FOREMAN, Sean TOOZE, Nik LJUBICIC, Rajan VIG, Alex D’ANNUNZIO, Calum NICOL, Adam ROSS. All Class of 2004

In the front row: Damian, wife Lucy and Lucy’s father Graham LYONS (1971), another Latymerian!

Taymoor Atighetchi

WITH DAVID GOODHEW

1

What / who initially motivated you to become a teacher, and why did you choose Classics as your subject?

I was very fortunate to be able to study Latin at my comprehensive school; we were also the last year that had the chance to study Greek. I loved the languages, as well as the fact that Classics is the ultimate subject. Indeed one derivation of the word ‘classics’ is from the Byzantine word meaning ‘a selection of all the subjects you should know to be an educated human being’. When I graduated from Oxford, I wanted to try a career that would allow me to share my passion for Classics, so I did a PGCE (teacher-training qualification). This allowed me to experience first-hand the joy of working in the most important and rewarding profession in the world. I’ve never looked back!

2

Why did you choose to join Latymer as Head, and how has that motivation evolved over your years in the role?

I was a Senior Deputy Head and felt ready to move into Headship. Latymer was the first, and only, school that I applied for: I didn’t expect to be appointed, as it was generally accepted that a school of Latymer’s calibre would be looking for someone who was already a Head and, in all probability, ten years older than I was. However, as a local boy, I knew Latymer well and thought it would be a good ‘practice go’. I was overwhelmed to be offered the job: I believe the Governors took a calculated

3

What do you consider to be your greatest successes during your time as Head, and why are they so meaningful to you?

I do not think I can claim credit for the many successes the school has achieved over the last decade. However, it means a lot to me that next year, thanks to the Inspiring Minds Campaign, 280 pupils will be at Latymer thanks to a bursary, including 1 in 4 of Year 7; we are on track for 1 in 4 of all the pupils in the school by 2024. When I started in 2012, there were 98 bursary pupils (fewer than 1 in 10). What we have achieved is fundamental to what gives Latymer its distinctive ethos and has set an inspirational example for other schools to follow. It has been a collective labour of love.

4

On a similar note, looking back over your time as Head, what are some of the most memorable moments or events that stand out to you, and why?

I will never forget hosting the pupils and staff from Kensington Aldridge Academy in the summer term of 2017. The fact that they all arrived punctually for their first Latymer assembly - three days after the Grenfell fire - spoke volumes about the importance of education. KAA’s motto is “intrepidus” and those students were an inspiration to all of us.

5

What will you miss the most about your time as Head?

The pupils: Latymerians are

6

What do you think are the biggest challenges facing the education sector currently, and how have you sought to address those challenges during your tenure as Head?

Poor mental health among teenagers is, in my view, the greatest challenge facing schools and parents. We have massively increased our pastoral support in all areas of the school over the last decade. We have also tried to be proactive about teaching tools for positive mental health, chiefly: sleep, exercise, nutrition, positive friendships in the real world and resilience.

7

What are your hopes for the future of Latymer?

Now that I am a Latymer parent, I naturally hope the school goes from strength to strength. I have every confidence that Su Wijeratna will change and improve the (many) things that can be better, while preserving the School’s unique ethos.

8

What legacy do you hope to leave?

I’m always very reluctant to talk in terms of ‘legacy’ – it feels too arrogant. I like Christopher Wren’s solution: “si monumentum requiris, circumspice”. I hope that anyone who knows Latymer will see the signs of my influence.

9

What message would you like to leave with the school community as you depart?

Thank you for your friendship –leading Latymer has been the honour of a lifetime.

10

Finally, now that you’re joining the ‘former Heads’ club’, how important do you feel the alumni community of students/staff is for Latymer, and schools in general?

It’s hard to overstate the importance of the alumni community – they taught me so much about Latymer and are the living legacy of the School. All of us, as former members of the Latymer community, can help each other in more ways than we realise.

A TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE

We’re thrilled to share a satirical ‘fashion supplement’ which was the brainchild of the late Bayan Peter NORTHCOTT (1958) while Editor of the Latymerian magazine in the late 1950s. Share your favourite look with us on Latymerians@latymerfoundation.org

MEMORY LANE

These nostalgic exam papers from 1962 were given to us by John SMITH (1967) when he joined us for one of our Archive Teas. We set you all the challenge to refresh your maths skills!

SCHOOL NEWS

OUTSTANDING OLYMPIADS

Our students have seen incredible success at various academic competitions

PHYSICS: 14 Latymerians gained an award, including one Gold and one Top Gold at the British Physics Olympiad! Achieving a Top Gold award is exceptional and means that the winner, Daniel (Year 13), has now been selected for the UK Team.

“I would like to congratulate all who took part; this was NOT an easy paper and our students should all be proud of what they have achieved,” said James Hunt of Latymer’s Physics Department. “The event organisers

BIOLOGY: The British Biology Olympiad saw our Latymerians win seven Gold, seven Silvers, seven Bronze, six Highly Commended, and five Commended awards. What a feat! One student, Matilda (Year 13), did so well that she has she has been selected to represent the UK at the International Biology Olympiad this year.

LINGUISTICS: Seven Latymerians competed in this year’s UK Linguistics Olympiad at an Advanced Level. All seven came away with an award, including one High Gold! The Olympiad had a record entry of 1,686 candidates for the Advanced Level competition this year, awarding Gold to the top 5%, Silver to the top 10% and Bronze to the top 20%.

MATHEMATICS: Our Latymerians excelled in the British Mathematical Olympiad which saw 1,000 of the best young mathematicians in the country take part. Three of our students made it into the top 300, including Quyll (Year 12), who made it into the top 100 and qualified for the next round. Some of Latymer’s young mathematicians have also been competing in the Hans Woyda Maths Championships and are now through to the Quarter Finals, having beaten teams from St Paul’s Boys’, St Paul’s Girls’, Godolphin, and Latymer and Haberdashers

Boys’. An incredible accomplishment!

n Congratulations to our 1st VII netball team who won the Middlesex Cup for the first time in the competition’s history!

After qualifying for their region in the preliminary competition, the team went undefeated, beating some of London’s best teams from North London Collegiate School, St Paul’s Girls’ School, Highgate, and South Hampstead High School. With a nail-biting final game against Godolphin and Latymer, the team were crowned Middlesex Champions and lifted the trophy

tournament against Richmond Upon Thames School, Waldegrave School and Orleans Park School.

n Our Year 7 and 8 swimmers won the London Schools Swimming League North of the River Final Gala! Leading up to the final, 14 schools had taken part in heats over the autumn and spring terms. The top six schools from those events then qualified to compete in the North of the River Final Gala which took place at Latymer Upper School’s Sports Centre.

Latymer won the gala with 295 points (14 points ahead of North London Collegiate in second and 29 points ahead of Lady Eleanor Holles in third). City of London

n Year 9 students Jemima, Eliane, Qaali, Elizabeth, Tomi, Tabitha and Lara made Latymer history, by being the first girls to represent the School in a rugby fixture.

Physics

Biology

Mathematics

HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL DAY 2023 EQUALITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION AT LATYMER

Among the events organised to mark Holocaust Memorial Day 2023, we welcomed some very moving speakers including Holocaust survivor, Steven Frank. Steven spoke to pupils and staff about his unique and personal insight into the Holocaust and the destruction it caused.

We are very grateful to Steven’s nephew, Nick FRANK (1981), for his support in arranging this important talk.

Born in Amsterdam in 1935, Steven was just five years old when the Nazis invaded and occupied the Netherlands. He spoke movingly about his family and how the life they had known suddenly changed.

Steven discussed his father, Leonard Frank, a much-respected lawyer who worked tirelessly to help the most disadvantaged in their local community. He sat on the board of a large hospital for the mentally ill. When the Nazis invaded, the family had offers to help them escape to Britain, but Leonard Frank was worried about the patients and refused to flee.

ANNOUNCEMENT FROM THE HEAD NEW LATYMER SPORTS GROUNDS - CHISWICK

Dear Latymerians,

For several years we have been considering how we might best increase our off-site sporting facilities to complement our grounds at Wood Lane, as we further develop our sports programme.

For over twenty years we have been using the facilities at the Quintin Hogg Memorial Sports Ground at Chiswick or, as they’re often referred to, the ‘University of Westminster grounds’. This 31-acre site is on Hartington Road, W4 3UH and can be reached within 10 - 15 minutes by coach from the Upper School. We have now purchased the lease for the grounds from the University. As long-term users of the site, we know that these facilities would enable us to deliver a truly inclusive, co-educational sports programme that is within easy reach of the Latymer Prep and Upper Schools, reducing transfer times and cutting our environmental footprint.

This development is part of a long-term strategic plan for us, benefiting not just our students but the other users of the site and the local community. We plan to invest in the facilities onsite, extending the range of sports available and improve the access. This will be funded through existing reserves and judicious borrowing. This means that we are in a position to proceed without having to raise fees to pay for it or negatively impact our bursary programme.

This is an exciting opportunity to add to our existing sporting facilities for the benefit of our students and the local community.

Yours faithfully,

David Goodhew Head

I would like to share our efforts in promoting Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion over the past three years. In contrast to some organisations that treated movements like Black Lives Matter and Everyone’s Invited as public relations exercises – a hashtag to be forgotten - we have been actively working every week since to do better and improve.

So, what have we achieved? We have developed and implemented a new Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policy. This policy has strengthened the connection between our student societies, the Student and Staff Equality & Diversity Committees, and the Senior Management team (SMT), who review feedback from all our diversity groups and consider further improvements.

Our School celebrates all aspects of diversity from Black History Month to PRIDE. On 24th June we held our first Diversity Day, and it was brilliant to see how students embraced this initiative. We have also joined a new consortium of schools dedicated to diversity and inclusion, and we are working with a respected organisation called Inclusion Labs, who next term, will conduct the first annual Inclusion Survey involving all students, parents, and staff. This survey will be repeated every year, enabling us to track data and assess the effectiveness of our efforts in improving the everyday experiences of our community.

We have provided training to staff and globalised our curriculum, organised student projects focused on global perspectives, updated our academic departments’ schemes of work to reflect a more diverse global majority, and expanded elective options covering related topics in the Sixth Form.

Recognising the underrepresentation of particular ethnic minorities in schools, we have established a teaching scholarships programme aimed at recruiting and training two individuals from underrepresented groups annually. This initiative aims to increase the pool of teachers from diverse backgrounds, not just for the benefit of Latymer, but for all of society.

Our staff (including SMT) strike a 50% gender balance, and our Gender Pay Gap stands at 5% - well below the sector average of 22%. However, we strive to do even better. In response to the issues of misogyny and sexual harassment raised by Everyone’s Invited, our staff participated in a special two-day conference. We also provided active bystander training to all staff and students and expanded our Pupil Welfare team.

We have focused on improving our Personal, Social, Health, and Economic Education (PSHE) and Relationships and Sex Education (RSE), doubling the time devoted to these subjects. Many of the improvements in these areas have been suggested by students and alumni – including small group workshops that encourage debate and provide opportunities to ask questions. Certain topics are also covered lower down the school in an age-appropriate way. PSHE now holds the same status as other academic departments, and as well as the expert external organisations we work with, only staff trained to do so teach this content.

Our student-led initiative, the Common Humanity Project, promotes peer-to-peer discussions on consent and inappropriate behaviour. Additionally, the Lower School’s Stand Up Speak Out Be Kind campaign emphasises the shared responsibility of all community members in fostering a safe and inclusive environment.

At our School, the rules are crystal clear, and we have zero tolerance for sexual harassment or any form of persecution based on protected characteristics. Such behaviour has no place in our school. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion will continue to drive everything we do as part of our next five-year plan.

Mat Chataway Deputy Head (Pastoral)

How would you like to be remembered?

Latymer was created by a single act of philanthropy

Our origin story dates back to the early 17th century, when Edward Latymer, a successful lawyer and philanthropist, envisioned an institution that would provide education and opportunity to local underprivileged youth. Recognising the transformative power of education, he bequeathed a significant portion of his wealth in his will to establish a school that would carry forward his vision - and the Latymer Foundation was born.

From Edward Latymer’s original bequest to educate and clothe “eight poore boyes” almost 400 years ago, to the co-educational school with a student body 1,400 strong that we are today, Edward Latymer’s ethos and legacy still permeate all that we do.

A Legacy of Inclusivity and Opportunity

Telescope at the Britannia Royal Naval College, earning a First in Electrical Engineering at the University of London, and obtaining an MBA from Harvard Business School. Today, I work as a software executive in San Diego, and I still use the mathematical skills I learnt in those old houses at Latymer along Rivercourt Road.

in my heart, and I’m thrilled to be able to give back to the school that gave me so much.

My parents came from a humble background. My mother had to leave school early to support her family after her father was killed on the Somme, and my father, the youngest of eight children, was the son of a factory worker in Tottenham. Neither of my parents finished high school; in fact, my father won a place to study at the then Merchant Marine Academy but couldn’t attend as his parents couldn’t afford the bus fare to Greenwich. Despite their struggles, they believed in education and helped me with reading and schoolwork. To my family’s delight, I was accepted at Latymer under the Direct Grant free place scheme (which is the Bursary of today). Latymer truly transformed my life, and that of my family. I was inspired by my teachers and peers and went on to achieve great things, including winning the Queen’s

I joined the 1624 Society because I do not want anyone to be denied a Latymer education because of the 21st Century equivalent of not being able to afford the bus fare from Tottenham to Greenwich. By giving back to Latymer, I hope to ensure that future generations have the same opportunities that I did.

Joan CHANDLER

As I sit down to reflect on my time at Latymer Upper School, a flood of memories wash over me.

Having studied at Godolphin and Latymer, I always felt ‘part Latymerian’ – even more so when

In 1978, an opportunity arose to become a teacher at Latymer Prep, I eagerly applied and was fortunate enough to join the faculty (it helped that I was already well known from leading the Cubs group!). After 17 joyous years of teaching, I retired, believing that my time at Latymer had come to an end. However, retirement didn’t suit me just yet, and I was soon invited back to Latymer Prep—this time as Principal until 1997. Returning to Latymer felt like coming home, reuniting with the boys and staff I had grown to love.

When I reflect on my fondest memories at Latymer, the Jantaculum springs to mind. This unique Latymer tradition, where students and staff gather together for an evening of drama, symbolises the sense of togetherness and

“By giving back to Latymer, I hope to ensure that future generations have the same opportunities that I did. Latymer truly transformed my life, and that of my family. I was inspired by my teachers and peers and went on to achieve great things”

David

About the 1624 Society

As we prepare to enter the 400th year of the Latymer Foundation in 2024, we have set a long-term goal to grow membership of the 1624 Society to 400 legators.

MEMBERSHIP

AS OF TODAYAS OF 2018AS OF 2014

146

MEMBERS

136

MEMBERS

129

MEMBERS

For more information please contact Megan Bruns on mhb@latymerfoundation.org

equality that permeates the school. What truly sets Latymer apart, then and today, is its commitment to providing opportunities for all. I am passionate about ensuring children from ordinary backgrounds have

access to a fantastic education –and this is why I have left a gift to Latymer in my will. Latymer opens doors for these students and levels the playing field, enabling them to unlock their true potential.

Achieving “1 in 4” students at Latymer on a bursary is not merely a quota at Latymer; it represents the first step in breaking down barriers and creating a fairer society.

For those considering supporting Latymer through a gift in their will, I would wholeheartedly encourage them to do so. The spirit of the school, embodied by Edward Latymer’s vision of providing education to eight poor boys, continues to thrive. By supporting Latymer, you are not only investing in the education of young minds but also contributing to the legacy of inclusivity and opportunity that defines our institution.

The 1624 Society, named after Edward Latymer’s visionary bequest of 1624, acknowledges and celebrates those who have so kindly pledged

OF THE 1624 SOCIETY THROUGHOUT THE YEARS

“What truly sets Latymer apart is its commitment to providing opportunities for all. By supporting Latymer, you are not only investing in the education of young minds but also contributing to the legacy of inclusivity and opportunity that defines our institution.”

Joan

Murray SMITH (1956) A PROVIDENTIAL VISIT TO THE HEAD’S OFFICE

I clearly recall getting a summons to visit Mr Wilkinson’s Office quite early one morning, so I begged leave from Captain Tom Stewart (who was struggling to lead me through algebra at that time), and made my way up the long main corridor to the Assembly Hall, where the Head’s office was then situated. I knocked on the door quite unaware at the time of the reason for the meeting.

I should explain that my father, Tom Smith, had recently passed away at the tender age of 46 and that to honour his far too early departure, I had contributed a story to the school magazine about someone he knew and respected: a Siamese Aviator and Racing Motorist called Prince Birabongse with whom my father had played golf.

One of the School’s Directors, Mr Townsend, had seen my story about Bira and some of the cars he had driven, and left a message with the Head to say that, if the student who had written it, would like to join him and a group of his friends, he would be delighted to invite him to watch the Daily Express International Trophy at Silverstone in which Bira would undoubtedly be participating.

On the day, I was instructed to be at the King Street gate at 8 am and to bring a raincoat just in case. Promptly, a late twenties Rolls Royce Woody Station Wagon pulled up and I squeezed in, and it was a certainly a squeeze, as Mr Townsend had invited four of his auto-motivated pals plus copious hampers of sandwiches and what looked suspiciously like a crate of champagne to provide sustenance in the wilds of Northamptonshire!

And we were off! I was excited to see a full programme of racing with some of the most famous drivers in the world. Not only would I get to see Bira who, to my delight had entered his OSCA into the race, but also Fangio, Farina, Rosier, Behra, and Parnell; a young Stirling Moss would also appear in one of the support events!

We parked the Woody on the outside of the entry to Woodcote corner (where, incidentally, many years later, I took my wife to her first race and the noise really hadn’t changed!).

I was electrified and enthused; I had read about these cars and their drivers but here I was actually present and watching it all from a lovely old Woody Rolls, and it was even more exciting than I had anticipated. My love of racing was well and truly alight! But I had to go back to school on Monday.

Fortunately, I lived near the Isleworth factory of Frazer Nash cars who built very competitive sports cars with

Bristol engines, and by looking in the windows of the showrooms on a regular basis, I got know the works manager who convinced the owners, the Aldington brothers, that I was harmless. As a result, I got taken for test rides!

I later owned one of these Frazer Nashes and drove it at Monaco where it had once finished third in the hands of a previous owner. I didn’t do so well in it; it broke down at a corner where I found two other drivers also stranded by mechanical woes: Phil Hill and Stirling Moss who much later became great personal friends. In fact, I shared my Bentley with Phil Hill on the re-enactment of the Mille Miglia, a thousand-mile saga around Italy, where Stirling gave one of the greatest performances of his career.

I digress! Once I finished my career at Latymer and got into the London School of Economics, I bought my first car, an Austin Ten open two-seater with a dicky seat, and got a part time job at an emporium called Performance Cars on what was then the Great West Road. I made myself as useful as possible, making enough money to indulge in a number of rare Austin Sevens, amongst them an Ulster and a Vauxhall 30/98.

My days at the LSE prepared me for a career with a well-known British Advertising Agency, who, after a year in London, sent me to Greece where I bluffed my way into several nice drives in other people’s cars and in a real international event, the Acropolis Rally, which was a bona fide, world championship event! I competed in this rally four times before eventually winning our class in 1965 with a very good co-driver called George Raptopoulos. We also did another world championship event in Poland and ended up in a river bed near Zakopane!

I was eventually transferred to Paris for a year, before going on to join a big agency in New York where I

A LIFE LESS

immediately contacted the Dreyfus brothers who had a restaurant in Manhattan; more significantly Rene, the elder brother, had an illustrious career in Grand Prix Racing before the war winning the Monaco Grand Prix.

In the years leading up to the Second World War, the Dreyfus brother’s restaurant was a hub for the motor racing fraternity in New York, and it was only a couple of blocks from my office. I rapidly developed a network, particularly in the vintage or historic racing fraternity, where famous, and fast competition cars from the past were prepared for racing. I soon realised that sponsorship would be very welcome in the area of old car events, so I immersed myself in that particular area for some twenty or thirty years in Europe and in the Americas, conceiving new venues as well as substantial corporate support for existing events.

This also afforded me the opportunity to drive some of the cars which I love, but could not afford, all over the world. We did rallies and concours in China, America, and Mexico and, for many years I worked for Rolex, Louis Vuitton and Chrysler. I even helped develop a competition version of the Chrysler Viper which won its class at Le Mans, Daytona and Sebring that same year.  I got to drive lovely cars for generous owners like Lord Anthony Bamford, (Ferrari GTO and D Type Jaguar), Miles Collier (Mercedes W154), Jim Freeman (Lola T70), Dieter Holterbosch (Maserati Birdcage), and Bill Shanahan (Chevrolet Corvette) and, within my own means, several Formula One cars.

In many cases I made good friends with my motor racing heroes: Vic Elford, Sir Stirling Moss, Tony Brooks, Phil Hill, Dan Gurney, Alain de Cadenet, Masten Gregory, Sir Jacky Stewart, and Rene Dreyfus to name but a few.

An incredible life and career journey which all started in Fred Wilkinson’s office and matured in Mr Townsend’s Rolls!

Murray Smith (R) with Sir Stirling Moss

REFLECTIONS ON… THE JOHANNEUM EXCHANGE

This is the world’s longest-running school exchange programme, running since 1948. Only the pandemic has interrupted our annual trip.

This year marks the 75th anniversary of former Head, Fred ‘Wilkie’ Wilkinson’s revolutionary ‘experiment in friendship’ as London and Hamburg bore the scars of war: Latymer’s exchange with the Johanneum School in Hamburg, Germany.

As we gear up for celebrations of our pioneering exchange this autumn, we’d love to hear your memories of the exchange, and of the friends you made in Hamburg.

Please write to us at: Latymerians@latymerfoundation.org

More details of the 75th anniversary celebrations can found on page 16 under Events.

Roger TABOR (1962)

An abiding memory from my time in Hamburg was of a vibrant city still recovering from the devastation of World War II, with large open spaces visible from my host’s apartment block, but one populated with people who were determined to make us feel very welcome.

I imagine the welcome will be no less today, but the Hamburg of today will be very different, though still with recognisable landmarks.

For me it was an important life experience, being my first foreign visit - holidays abroad being much less common then. Travel was by boat and rail and took a long time.  While it is so long ago that memories have faded, the discovery of my scrapbook has reminded me how fully we were introduced to Hamburg. From what must have been a mixture of School organised visits and outings with my hosts, I have a record of statistics about the port, a plan of the huge cemetery at Ohlsdorf, pictures of the Willkomm Hoeft, where ships arriving in Hamburg were greeted with their own national anthem, a guide to the Planten und Blumen exhibition park, programmes from a variety of theatre and the opera, black and white ‘snaps’ of the zoo, many churches and other buildings, and a bunch of public transport tickets!

We had an outing to see the Kiel canal, and a more poignant one to Lueneberg Heath, to see the barbed wire and watchtowers of the border with the Soviet Occupation Zone (later the DDR). The politics of the

divided Germany were very raw at that time; I remember the consternation of my hosts reading a newspaper report of the beginning of construction of a wall in part of Berlin – a precursor of what became the great icon of the Cold War.

Graham SANSOM (1966)

2023 is not only the 75th anniversary of the Johanneum Exchange, but also marks my own 75th year on this planet and, more importantly, the 60th anniversary of the first of my two exchanges with Werner Vogel and his family in Hamburg. Last year I was visiting my daughter, son-in-law and half-Dutch grandchildren in the Netherlands and decided – pretty much on a whim – to take the train to Hamburg and see if I could track down Werner.

Since my move to Australia, we’d had no contact for more than fifty years, but thanks to Google I was able to establish that the Vogel’s house still stood in Wellingsbüttel and remained in the family name.

I simply went to the house and knocked on the door. I didn’t get a response, so I spoke to a neighbour and left a note. Amazingly it did the trick, and within a few hours Werner contacted me at my hotel. It turned out that one of his nephews now occupies the house, and that Werner himself lives only a short distance away. The next day I was very warmly welcomed for morning tea, joyful conversation, and hugs with Werner and his wife Angela before having to catch the train back to Amsterdam.

Boys from Latymer Upper and the Johanneum School perform together in 1950

PREVIOUS EVENTS

109th Annual Latymerians’ Dinner

2 December 2022

It was brilliant to see so many attendees at our Christmas-themed 109th Latymerians’ Dinner in December. It was David Goodhew’s last Annual Dinner as Head, and we saw alumni of all ages attend, including three members of the COLLINGWOOD family, who represent four generations of Latymerians. We were thrilled to see so many younger alumni there too but were exceptionally glad to receive the Father of the House, Derek SINSTEAD from the class of 1947!  We hope to see even more of our alumni at next year’s dinner on Thursday 30 November.

Inspiring Minds: Virtually Speaking: Robert

Orme Series

18 January 2023

What a fantastic set of evenings spent with art historian and teacher, Robert Orme. In his first talk, Robert gave us his unique insight into a fascinating interpretation of Art through the Renaissance ideas of the brain, and its connection to the concepts of divinity and how the Greeks thought we

Parallels between Modernist Art and Literature

25 January and 1 February 2023

In the second of Robert Orme’s trilogy of art talks, exploring the Parallels between Modernist Art and Literature, Robert delved into specific examples of the two forms of artistic expression, whilst linking them to influences of the ever-changing and volatile Modernist period.

Dr Hilary Jones in Conversation with Taylor Downing

26 January

2023

We were delighted to host a memorable evening with Good Morning Britain’s resident doctor and Latymerian Dr Hilary JONES (1971) MBE in conversation with historian, author and fellow alumnus, Taylor DOWNING (1971). Hilary discussed his personal ideas on the NHS and its current struggles with strikes and funding. Taylor then delved into Hilary’s books, including ‘Frontline,’ which takes a fascinating and unique medical approach to historical fiction.

On the Road: Edinburgh

2 February 2023

We were thrilled to be joined once again by Latymerians who are currently living, working or studying in and around Edinburgh! It was fantastic to have so many Latymerians with us for an afternoon cup of tea, and an evening drinks reception at the Rabble Tap House.

Paschal Beverly Randolph

8 February 2023

In his final talk of the series, art historian Robert Orme examined the encapsulating life and ideas of the 1860s American occultist, Paschal Beverly Randolph, a medical doctor, spiritualist practitioner and writer.

£1,100 was raised from tickets and donations across the series, which will go towards funding the Bursary in Robert Orme’s name for a talented student to join Latymer’s Sixth Form to study History of Art or

On the Road: Oxford

9 February 2023

A fabulous time was had by Latymerians of all generations in Oxford for an afternoon tea and an evening drinks reception. We had the honour of being joined by Stanley DUNCAN (1946) who is 95 years young and certainly held his own with the younger crowd! All in all, we were joined by Latymerians from the Classes of 1946 to 2022, rekindling their School memories.

Join us in the Archives

9 March and 4 May 2023

We were thrilled to welcome Latymerians back to King Street for a dive into the Latymer Foundation’s history with our very own archivists.

At our March event we welcomed special guest, Malcolm CAMPBELL (1958) from the Latymer Foundation School.

And in May, we were thrilled that John ARUNDEL (1967) brought a suitcase full of memorabilia to share and add to our Archive.

Why you should see Donatello at the V&A - Robert Orme

21 March 2023

With the first major UK exhibition of the Renaissance master Donatello opening at the V&A this month, former Latymer teacher and Art Historian, Robert Orme, explained the significance of Donatello’s achievements, and why everyone should seize this once in a lifetime chance to experience the finest slice of Renaissance art in existence without travelling to Italy.

Exclusive Guided Tour of the Imperial War Museum with Taylor Downing

25 March 2023

Historian, author and TV producer, Taylor DOWNING (1971), led us on another fascinating tour of the great Imperial War Museum. Taylor also spoke about his new book 1942: Britain at the Brink, which covers the time when Britain was at the edge of defeat, leading to high tension across the nation. After the tour we all gathered for a friendly drink and chat at a nearby pub.

EVENTS ROUNDUP

On the Road: New York City

13 - 14 April 2023

We were thrilled to welcome US Latymerians to our On the Road drinks reception and brunch in New York City.

A huge thank you goes to Nicky and Jamie GRANT (1976) for hosting a fabulous drinks reception, and to David GODFREY (1964), Treasurer of the US Latymerian Council for his help in making the events such a huge success.

1624 Society Afternoon Tea

11 May 2023

David Goodhew and 1624 Society* President, James GRAHAM (1976), hosted members of our Legacy Society for the annual afternoon tea, whilst hearing both the impact of the society, and an exceptionally emotive reading from School Captain, Yuv, on the history of the German exchange in recognition of the upcoming 75th Anniversary.

*The 1624 Society acknowledges and celebrates those who have pledged a gift in their will. For more information, please contact Megan Bruns at mhb@latymerfoundation.org

DATES FOR THE DIARY

Anonymous Art Sale

9 November 2023

Latymer has a great reputation for nurturing creativity and we’re very proud of our wonderful artistic community. To celebrate our budding – and established – artists, we’re excited to be hosting The Latymer Anonymous Art Sale! Proceeds from the sale of art will go to the Upper School Bursaries Appeal.

75th Anniversary of the Johanneum School Exchange Programme

12 October 2023

Please join us for our 75th Anniversary Celebration of Latymer’s exchange programme with the Johanneum School in Hamburg. This exchange programme is the longest-running student exchange in the world (as far as we are aware) and we do hope you will help us celebrate this milestone! If you were involved in this exchange when

Fullers Brewery Tour

7 June 2023

Latymerians glimpsed into the past and current practice of brewing on the Fuller’s Brewery guided tour. Together we learned about the brewing process from mash to cask and everything in between. Most importantly, attendees sampled the full range of Fuller’s beer as well as beer and ciders from their sister breweries.

Old Latymerians Cricket

June 2023

Beautiful weather and fantastic matches were in store for the Old Latymerians’ Cricket Club (OLCC) at our Wood Lane Sports Grounds.

If you would like to play the occasional game of cricket for the Old Latymerians Cricket Club next season, please email OldLatymerCricket@gmail.com for more information.

Join us in the Archive

15 November 2023

Dive into our Foundation’s long history together with Archivist Polly Foley and members of your alumni team – look through memorabilia and back copies of the Latymerian magazine whilst also helping us identify fellow Latymerians and teachers from our photo collection. All

110th Latymerians’ Dinner

30 November 2023

Mark your diary for our highly anticipated annual Latymerians’ Dinner. Alumni of all ages will gather in the main hall to reconnect and make new friends over delicious food and drinks.

Festive Wreath Making

9 December 2023

Embrace the festive season by joining our Christmas wreath-making masterclass. You will learn about festive wreath making, its history, and how to celebrate the finest seasonal foliage, mosses, and fruits - all in the vibrant surroundings of Latymer’s Art Studio.

Keep an eye on the website and Latymer Connects for our exciting 2024 programme of events to celebrate the 400th Anniversary of the Foundation office.

To register for any of our events please visit ‘Upcoming Events’ under ‘News & Events’ on our website www.latymerfoundation.org or email events@latymerfoundation.org for more information.

FONDLY REMEMBERED

We mark the following Latymerians who have sadly passed away recently.

n Tim BAKER (1955)

n Brian EMES (1951)

n Michael GLOVER (1948)

n Brian HUGHES (1953)

n Henry HUTCHINGS (1948)

n Leon MOORE (1980)

n James MUIR (1962)

n Geoffrey SALMON (1943)

n Kaka SINGH (1983)

n Anthony SWANNELL (1953)

n George TAYLOR (1948)

n Laurie WARWICKER (1948)

n Douglas WEBBER (1946)

n David WOOD (1971)

A WONDERFUL LEGACY

We are grateful to John ROBERTS (1958) and Hugh SEELEY (1959) for the following tribute

Bayan was a composer, biographer, and music critic whose erudite and thoughtful prose adorned the pages of publications including New Statesman, The Sunday Telegraph, The Independent, and the BBC Music magazine. A prolific composer in his own right, Bayan was acknowledged as an important mentor by other composers, notably Robin Holloway and Julian Anderson.

Northcott’s music-critic colleagues recalled a gentle, intelligent and ego-free figure, though he was a man of routine: before sitting down to write a post-concert review, he first cooked himself a late-night bacon sandwich.

As a critic, he was never unkind. At Latymer, Bayan was known by his middle name, Peter. Hugh SEELEY (1959) remembers meeting Bayan on their first day at Latymer in 1950 and they remained close friends throughout adulthood. Together, they both joined the choir and orchestra and acted in many of the school’s theatrical productions.

In the 1950s, Latymerians benefitted from membership of the municipal record library (vinyl) based near Hammersmith Broadway, and Bayan was able to broaden his knowledge of music by extensive borrowing. In his latter days at school, he often expressed the wish to be a composer. He made an immense contribution to the life of the school and subsequently to musical journalism and composition.

Fellow school friend, John ROBERTS (1958) recalls that Bayan was editor of the Latymerian for a while and commissioned some unusual articles. He produced a satirical piece on school uniforms for the Latymerian in 1958, featuring John and Mr Townsend’s Rolls in the picture shoot! (pictured in Memory Lane of this edition –turn to page 7).

Bayan blossomed in the sixth form and embarked on his brilliant career, leaving everyone else standing in his wake.

n Peter CLARK (1944)

We are grateful to Peter’s son, Robert CLARK (1976) for sending us his father’s obituary taken from the Royal Geographical Society.

Peter passed away on 9 December 2021, almost 96 years after his birth. His mother, a teacher, introduced him to Ordnance

Survey maps at the tender age of eight, and that triggered a lifelong fascination with maps which never dimmed.

At the age of 11, he won a scholarship to Latymer, where his growing fascination with geography was nurtured. By the time he was 18, Peter had discovered the Royal Geographical Society and was writing to his school friend Ian MUMFORD (1943) in glowing terms ‘I have tasted one of the delights at that fount of pure learning and I long for more. Oh, that map room: it is nearly paradise!’

He joined the Royal Navy and studied oceanography, geography, and geology. After completing his National Service with the Meteorological Office, he read Geography and Polish at St John’s College, Cambridge. He then married Czesława, who had been a courier in the Polish underground movement.

Peter was to spend his career in what became the Map Research Officer class in the Ministry of Defence (MoD), rising to its senior grade at the relatively young age of 38, and becoming responsible for the Map Research and Library Group which provided the cartographic research support to meet the needs of the British Army and the Royal Air Force.

Among other awards, Peter was proud to receive the Murchison Award for publications judged to have contributed most to geographical science.

n Alan BLACKWELL (1963)

We are grateful to Alan’s brother, Lord Norman BLACKWELL (1970) for the following tribute.

Alan was born in 1944, the second of four brothers. As well as early academic promise, he showed musical talent from a young age, learning both the piano and violin, and winning many local competitions. As a teenager at Latymer, he played violin in the National Schools Symphony Orchestra and performed a Beethoven Piano Concerto with the school orchestra.

After studying Electrical Engineering at Selwyn College, Cambridge, Alan embarked on a career as a software engineer in the early days of computer systems. His work focused on aircraft radar systems and air traffic control, staying active as a systems designer and software developer.

He was involved in several amateur orchestras around London in his early years after university. He then took up the french horn for a while and also learned to play the cello, but increasingly devoted most of his spare time to classical chamber music – retiring early to make this his main occupation. He gained a reputation as an exceptionally talented player on both violin and pianoand was most loved and respected by all.

David

We are grateful to David’s wife, Madeleine, for the following tribute

At six years old when World War II was declared, David’s family were living close to London. He and his older sister joined hundreds of other children who were sent away to live in safer places. It was a lonely time for him; he missed his home and family, and so his parents decided to take David back to London. He and other children collected shrapnel after the raids - the

Myrton BAINES (1951)

Bayan ‘Peter’ NORTHCOTT (1958)

OBITUARIES

hotter the shrapnel the higher the prize! He walked two miles to and from school, often finding streets closed off by bomb damage.

He entered Latymer at nine years old, where he flourished in the drama classes. He performed in many Shakespearian plays at Latymer, usually preferring the role of the buffoon!

David wanted to work in the burgeoning television industry, but family pressure redirected his efforts into the aircraft industry, apprenticing and working for Vickers Armstrong. He arrived in Seattle in 1968, where he worked for Boeing, and went back home a year later to marry Madeleine on the eve of the USA landing on the moon.

He helped with the Seattle Opera company and then, with Madeleine and their young son Michael, made the move to the small town of Puyallup, where he worked on the design team of the Boeing 757 and then in customer service, which allowed him to travel widely.

He had a passion for cinema organ music, eventually joining the Mount Baker Theatre Organ Club. Church and faith were essential to his life; he was presented with the Bishops Cross service award in 2020 by Anglican Bishop Kevin Allen.

David had a quirky sense of humour, and he never lost his English accent! He became a citizen of the United States in 1980 and kept many good friends whom he cherished, never letting a birthday go by without a card.

We are grateful to Keith’s cousin, Graham OLLIS (1982), for informing us of this sad news.

At Latymer, Keith was Head of Boats and School Captain. He stayed in touch with the school community and is credited by a friend, Colin EADES (1965) for encouraging him to reconnect with the School.

Keith and Colin met by chance in their town, Hitchin, Hertfordshire and bonded over their Latymer connection. Keith was a stalwart Hitchin Town FC supporter and volunteer and was known for his work around the local community; in 2021, he helped organise the Dell at Woodside – a crowdfunding project to turn a disused pit in the centre of town into a stunning open-air theatre. Without his vision and passion for the project, it almost certainly would not have happened.

Keith was also known for his fantastic firework and pyrotechnics displays that he put on for the community each year. His passing is a huge loss not only to his family and friends, but to the community and the arts, events, and entertainment business he worked in.

dashed by his less than perfect eyesight; so he became a radar operator.

He met his wife, Pam, in 1956 at a dance in Wimbledon. They moved to Leatherhead where they brought up their family of three children, and Ernie went on to become a grandfather and great grandfather.

Despite living outside London, Ernie held a Fulham FC season ticket for much of his life, still attending evening matches in his late eighties. After Pam died in 1992, Ernie went on to rebuild the Latymer connection via a close 16-year friendship with Jean Osborne, whose son Alistair OSBORNE (1981) attended the school, as did his children, Joe OSBORNE (2015) and Nicolas OSBORNE (2018). Ernie remained fit and active, still swimming three times a week until the Covid outbreak. He passed away in October 2022, just a month before his 92nd birthday.

n Alan Howard Cousens BEARD (1946) We are grateful to Alan’s son, John Beard, for the following tribute.

Alan was born in 1928 in Hounslow, joining Latymer in 1939, just as war was declared. His years at the school were spent under the dark clouds of the Second World War, and indeed his first few months were actually spent in Slough when the whole school was evacuated.

His class returned to Hammersmith in 1940, just in time to experience the horrors of the Blitz. Alan recalled doing his homework in an air raid shelter. In spite of this, Alan thoroughly enjoyed his time at Latymer, forming many lifelong friendships. He was a particularly good sportsman, captaining the cricket First XI in his final year.

Leaving school in 1946, Alan’s hopes of going to university were thwarted by the high demand for places from the servicemen returning from the war. He undertook his national service, commencing in 1947, and joined the Royal Engineers. In North Africa, he spent time guarding German POWs from Hitler’s Africa Corps still there two years after the war had ended. He played cricket and football against the Germans on a sports ground nicknamed the Benghazi Oval.

Returning to civilian life, Alan embarked on his career, qualifying as a Chartered Civil Engineer in 1953. He joined a large international construction company and became a director of three of its subsidiaries.

Alan’s connection with Latymer continued as he became a prominent member of the Old Latymerian sports club at Whitton, playing cricket in the first XI for many years. It was at Whitton that Alan met his first wife Jacquie who was a member of the tennis section. They married in 1955 in Hounslow and had two children. Sadly, Jacquie died from cancer in 1995.

n Ernie MAYNARD (1947)

We are grateful to Jane Yettram for the following tribute

Born on 27th November 1930, Ernest William Maynard grew up in Fulhamhome to the football club that became a lifelong passion. The eldest of three children, Ernie’s schooling was interrupted by the Second World War, though he was lucky not to be evacuated. Home-schooling proved no bar to him winning a scholarship to Latymer, where he was a keen sportsman, even playing for the Old Latymerians in later years.

After school, Ernie joined the National Australia Bank, where he spent almost his entire career until his retirement in 1991. It was interrupted by national service in the RAF, where his hopes of becoming a pilot were

At Burhill Golf Club in Surrey Alan met his second wife, Mary. They had a wonderful life together until Alan’s passing at the age of 94.

Alan was immensely proud of being educated at Latymer Upper School and subsequently maintained a keen interest in the school and the Old Latymerian Association, both of which played an important part in his life.

n Bryan RUSSELL (1958)

We are grateful to Michael WATERS (1958) for the following tribute.

While at Latymer, Bryan joined the Combined Cadet Force (CCF), where he met John NICHOLLS (1958). Together with his long-time friend, Michael WATERS (1958), Bryan used

n Keith WARREN (1985)

Michael and Bryan

to cycle over to John’s home in Ruislip, where he met Joan, John’s sister, who later became Bryan’s wife.

Bryan enjoyed motorbikes and graduated from a bike to a 500cc AJS and then moved on to an SS Jaguar. Stuart PARKER (1959) tells the story of when Bryan fitted a full set of white metal bearings to the Jag before they set out for the evening. Bryan eventually settled down and got a Triumph sports car!

After school, Bryan joined the Paras (TA) in the RMP provost company based in Shepherds Bush. He subsequently transferred to the SAS (TA) Squadron based in Chelsea.

Bryan qualified as a surveyor and worked all over the UK on roads and tunnels. He also spent some time working in Bangladesh, but there was considerable unrest at the time and ex-pats were advised to leave. Bryan had been up country and arrived at the port to find the last boat was boarding. He found that all potential passengers’ names were being added laboriously to a handwritten list. Bryan told the officials that he could type and offered to help. Then he added his name to the list!

Bryan, Joan, and their two children subsequently moved to South Africa. My wife and I visited Joan and Bryan in 1991 when they were living close to Cape Town. We watched Bryan racing one of his cars and, surprisingly found that Bryan shared Joan’s love of line dancinghe even wore cowboy boots which went well with his moustache!

We visited them again in 2019. Bryan told us he had Parkinsons, but he had retained his sense of humour, was still driving too fast, was still enthusiastically exploring new ideas and was keen to demonstrate his softwarecontrolled kit for printing solid objects. It was a pleasure and privilege to be counted as one of Bryan’s friends.

Basil WALBY (1946)

We are grateful to Stanley DUNCAN (1946) for the following tribute

Basil died on 5th November 2022 in Melbourne, Australia aged 94. He joined Latymer following the outbreak of war in 1939, travelling daily to join the school in Slough, where it had moved at the start of the war. For safety reasons it was decided to re-open the school at Hammersmith in September 1940 for boys under 14 still in London. From that time until the end of the war in 1945 the school operated in two parts; Basil spent the whole of WWII in London and in the Blitz.

Basil has written amusingly about Latin lessons in the basement shelters, of the time the Chemistry class all hid in the cupboards under the worktops, and of the time he arrived back at school to find a hole where the gymnasium had been the day before. The later V1 and V2 attacks in 1944 were conveniently timed to take place during exam time.

Basil was an opening bat in the cricket First X1 and later played for the Old Latymerians. He also became Flight Sergeant and senior NCO in the school’s Air Training Corps squadron. On leaving school in 1946 he attended King’s College London to study Maths and Chemistry. After which, he carried out his National Service in Germany at a time of considerable tension between the Occupying Powers. He was also obliged to spend a further two years in the Territorial Army, which included parading at the Queen’s 1953 Coronation.

He followed his deep interest in science by finding a career in scientific publishing. In 1971 he accepted an appointment in this field in Melbourne, Australia, where he chose to live for the rest of his life. He was a Councillor of the Royal Society of Victoria and a member of the Australian Latymerian Council.

n Richard Easener (1955)

We are grateful to Richard’s daughter, Antonia, for the following tribute

After leaving Latymer, Richard, better known as Dick, started his career with Lloyds Insurance in London, where he remained until signing up to join the RAF. He travelled widely in this role, including a short period of active service in the Middle East where, on a blind date, a friend introduced him to Jan who later became his wife.

They married in 1963, and wanting to provide a stable home life for the family they had planned together, he resigned from the RAF, to start a career, which became his true passion; Air Traffic Control.

His three children were born during the remaining 1960s and early 1970s, and in 1972 he moved the family from Eaglesham, Glasgow to Hungerford in Berkshire, having successfully obtained a transfer to the London Air Traffic Control Centre, where he saw out the rest of his career.

Retiring in 2006, as a Supervisor, he was fortunate enough to enjoy a long and happy retirement, during which he studied for qualifications in Russian and Latin.

He was a very kind, intelligent, and loving man. A wonderful husband to Jan, and the best father Marc, Nick, and Antonia could ever have wished for.

n Albert ‘Ken’ WORTH (1943)

We are grateful to Ken’s granddaughter, Laura, for the following tribute

Ken left Latymer in 1940 at the age of 15 to train as a pilot and join the war effort during WWII; he loved it so much that he didn’t want to come back to base. He became a flight gunner and signals leader rising to the rank of Flight Lieutenant.

In total, he served in the Air Force for six and a half years, travelling around the world, only returning to Britain for D-Day. In 2016 he was awarded France’s highest honour, the French Legion D’Honneur for his role in the liberation of France.

After leaving the RAF, Ken worked as an assistant to a Surgeon in Harley Street. He ultimately decided that the medical training would take too long so went into brewing, running Truman’s Brewery in Brick Lane.

Ken left an indelible imprint on the lives of many, none more so than his family. After wooing and marrying Maureen Riley in 1951, he had four children, seven grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. An amazing array of stories to tell, a good glass of wine or single malt, an endless supply of quick cheeky wit, words of wisdom and great company for any party to be had – there are many things for which Ken will be remembered.

Ken passed away peacefully and in the presence of his family four days before his 98th birthday on the 8th of January 2023.

Borrowing the words of one of Ken’s beloved Jazz legends, Nat King Cole, Ken truly was “Unforgettable in every way. And forever more, that’s how he’ll stay”.

CCF camp in Vange, November 1956

As we approach the Latymer Foundation’s 400th year in 2024, we are excited to release Latymer at 400 - a lively, intelligently written history of the Latymer Foundation.

Latymer at 400 is collection of fascinating essays written by alumni and staff members, both past and present.

Historians, journalists, authors, designers and photographers from our community have also helped chronicle the ups and downs and the many challenges our Foundation has faced in establishing and running our schools – and the colourful characters who have shaped our destiny along the way.

The result is an engrossing, entertaining, and sometimes surprising, account based on meticulous research from primary sources in the School’s archive.

We hope that Latymer at 400 will earn a place on your bookshelf, serving as a testament to the rich legacy we share.

As an incentive, if ordered by September 6, 2023, there is the option to have your name printed in the back of the book, and you’ll also enjoy an early order discount.

To purchase your copy, please go profileeditions.com/latymerfoundation or scan the QR code