400 YEARS OF THE LATYMER FOUNDATION AT HAMMERSMITH
400 YEARS STRONG
WELCOME TO THE ANNIVERSARY EDITION OF THE LATYMERIAN MAGAZINE
Four centuries. Eighteen monarchs. Countless stories. As the Latymer Foundation reaches 400, we’re dedicating this special edition of the Latymerian to celebrating our rich history, and all of you, our Latymerians, who have each played an important part in the story.
The Latymer Foundation has been responsible for offering a life-changing education to thousands of local children over the centuries. Many of our current pupils now hail from further afield than Hammersmith, and we have grown considerably in size from educating the original eight Latymer boys, as well as in the diversity of our pupil community; but some aspects of our history have remained the same. The spirit of independent thought prevalent at the beginning of our story, and the links that tie us so strongly to our locality, are still very much alive today.
So dive in, turn the page, and celebrate our 400th-anniversary with us.
ALUMNI NEWS
Charlie ARDEN (2011) is taking a sabbatical from his role as Investment Director at Praxis Real Estate by sailing through the Mediterranean and across the Atlantic over the next nine months! You can follow his journey onlinesailingsunset.substack.com
Ramesh BALAKRISHNAN (1993) has started a new position as Global Markets Compensation Lead - Director at UBS.
Amul BATRA (1994) has started a new position as Managing Director at Counter.
Alice BLACK (2009) has launched the Alice Black Academy, a pioneering school dedicated to demystifying the contemporary art world - opening the often exclusive and opaque art world to a wider audience. The inaugural Autumn Programme offers a diverse range of taster classes, ideal for those seeking an introduction to art history, art theory, and the art market, as well as those wishing to deepen their existing knowledge. Alice has also launched ‘ABG Emerging’ - a new gateway to discovering and collecting original artworks at accessible prices.
Tiffany BLACK (2014) starred in the musical play ‘Wanted: The White Mouse’ as WW2 spy, Nancy Wake at the OSO Theatre in Barnes this June.
John BEAVIS (1942) celebrated his 100th birthday this January with family and friends.
Iain BLAXALL (1978) has now retired from teaching at Norwich School, having coached several alumni in the Leicester Tigers Rugby Academy since the 1990’s, and a full cap England rugby player.
Julian BORGER (1979) has published ‘I Seek a Kind Person’, an incredible tale which traces his father’s family story after discovering an ad in The Manchester Guardian from 1938
Eddy CANFOR-DUMAS (1975), co-author of the book ‘The Talking Revolution’ has launched a free online course around developing the ‘7 Habits of Creative Conversation’ to help forge deeper connections and overcome division. Visit www.creativeconversation.org
Hannah CHAPPATTE (2015) has been featured in The Sunday Times inaugural ‘2024 Young Power List’ (25 under 30) for her work as CEO of HYBRrevolutionising first-time renting for students and graduates.
Philip COHEN (1971) has released his second novel ‘The Gate of the Burnt One’. Make sure to check out his first novel too, ‘INFINITI’.
James COLTMAN (2008) has started a new position as Lead Designer and Deputy to the Art Director at The Telegraph.
Zygmund DE SOMOGYI (2014) saw the premiere of their second opera, ‘URSA MINOR’ at Milton Court Studio Theatre (Barbican) this June, under the baton of Dominic Wheeler, and performed by world-class opera singers from the Guildhall Opera School.
Robin FAIRHURST (1959) received incredible praise for his performance of Schubert’s ‘Winterreise’. “The attentive audience simply had to appreciate how convincingly Robin Fairhurst designed this artistic marathon with vocal sovereignty and always multifacetedness as well as the intellectual and emotional perfection of the piano part. The applause could not and would not end.”
Joss Hooren née FLEMING (2007) is a Clinical Psychologist and author of recently published ‘My Adventure Journal’, a journal-style anxiety management resource that supports families to plan, prepare for and record their adventures, both near and far.
Lord Peter HENDY (1971) has been appointed Minister of State in the Department for Transport.
Mark LAWRENCE (2002) has released ‘The Book that Broke the World’ - his second volume in the bestselling Library Trilogy, following ‘The Book That Wouldn’t Burn’.
Ophelia LOVIBOND’s (2004) play, ‘The Hills of California’ is off to Broadway! Maria MARAS (2011) is celebrating her marriage to her new husband, Frederick Ellis.
Charlie MASSON SMITH (1984) has retired after 27 years at Wandsworth Council, having worked his way up to Chief Press Officer.
Calum MCARTHUR (2016) has written a dark and moving play ‘Let Loose Sid’ which stars fellow alum, Louis WALWYN (2016).
Alan MCQUILLAN (1966) has made the ‘Official Selection’ level of the London International Creative Competition (LICC), Professional category, with his 10-photo series on preparations for King Charles’ coronation.
Gustav MOGULL (2009) was recently awarded the Karl Scheel Prize which “is the most important award of the Physikalische Gesellschaft zu Berlin” for his groundbreaking work in applying quantum field theory to gravitational physics.
Charles MORCOM (1985) has started a new position as Quantitative Researcher at Epoch Capital.
Sasha NATHWANI (2001) has had her debut feature film ‘Last Swim’ see its world premiere at the 74th Berlinale (Berlin Film Festival) where it competed in the Generation 14Plus Competition. The film was awarded the ‘Crystal Bear.’
Sophie OESTERGAARD (2018) has represented Denmark as cox (rowing) in their Eight at the World Championship.
Thomas PHELPS (2016) a student as the Boston College Law School, has joined Adler, Pollock & Sheehan as a summer Associate.
Ron PHILLIPS (1957) celebrated his 85th Birthday, with a special Latymer mug as a present! Here he is pictured (L) alongside David GODFREY (1964).
Augustus PREW (2006) has appeared on our screens again, this time in Netflix’s romantic comedy ‘Players’.
Scotia ROLLINS (2020) has joined the National Academies of Science in Washington, DC as a Lloyd V. Berkner Space Policy intern. Next year, she’ll complete her degree in Astrophysics.
Alan SENDOREK (2000) started a new position as Special Adviser to David Cameron at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office in the run up to the election.
Jaimin SOLANKI (2014) has married Vanisha, with several Latymerian friends present - Fabian LEWIS, Leslie PAN, and Arthikan RAVINDRAKUMAR (all Class of 2014).
Anna STACHNIAK (2022) has made the Dean’s honours list at the University of Notre Dame’s College of Arts for outstanding scholarship, an award given only to the top 30 percent of students in their college.
David STANTON has married Ayumi, in Takasaki Japan. Latymerians present were Dan PARSONS, Tom PARSONS, James SAVELLI-HOLT and Nathan TURNER (all Class of 2003), as well as David’s brother Oliver STANTON (2005).
Brian SYLVESTER (1956) has retired from his role as Newbury Town Crier after 25 years of service.
Alex (2014), Charlotte (2018) and Gaby (2024) TIMMONS are pictured here, enjoying their copies of Latymer 400!
Charlie WILD (2006) has published his book, ‘Achievable Adventures’ which documents 52 fantastic adventures to enjoy within the UK.
Stephen WYATT (1966) had his radio play ‘A House Called Insanity’ broadcast on Radio 4 in July, starring Anne Marie Duff.
A group of Latymerians from the Class of 1980 held their first ‘regular’ catch up in the Old Ship after a 44 years hiatus! Pictured are EVANS, PILCHER, BRIDGES, VINCE, DAVIES, SEVEVIRATNE, KELLY.
A SNAPSHOT of LATYMER
Mr Tuttill with Form 3A. September 1951
Down Memory Lane
“All have become memories, precious and rare, Contributing much to the men we would be.”
It’s a quarter past nine and, at Ravenscourt Park, The “three-eight” arrives and disgorges its load: Those young Latymerians, who disembark, Then turn left to stream along Ravenscourt Road.
At King Street, they meet the School Crossing Patrol; Whose sign says “Stop Children”: a hopeless request. With satchels and blazers; and caps - on the whole, They stream through the gates of the school with the rest.
This scene, in the fifties, was daily played out: A thousand intelligent scholarship boys And their masters, who knew what the fuss was about That filled all their world with exuberant noise.
And later, at lunchtime, a privilege earned Allowed older boys to go into the park: Their time spent digesting the lessons they’d learned, In earnest debate on a master’s remark.
The sundial, the arches, the trees planted there To commemorate King George the fifth’s jubilee: All have become memories, precious and rare, Contributing much to the men we would be.
See, back at that station, at quarter past four, They wait for the trains that would take them away: A stream of small boys who were clever but poor Though proud Latymerians, every day.
It’s seventy years since I played in that scene: The last time I went there a train to embark: There’s no sign embellishing where once I’d been; The trees have grown taller in Ravenscourt Park.
Ravenscourt Park by
John Elliot (1958)
Echoes of the Past Latymer Memories
by Ian Slater (1955)
Iarrived at Latymer in September 1948. I entered through a large double gate on King Street and walked along a wide area, on the right the oldest part of the school containing the hall, unchanged as I write in 2023. On the left was the bomb site where the Gym used to be and other buildings replaced long ago. Ahead and also demolished in later years I saw the Library and above it the Art Room. My route took me around those buildings and into a space that opened out to a large, tarmacked area full of hundreds of boys running, kicking balls and letting off steam before lessons started. There I found the other four boys who came with me from our primary school, Fergus O’BRIEN, John MALHAM, John
SIGGERS
and Terry WHEELER. I have no recollection of apprehension on my first day but a curiousity about what my new school would have in store for me and to meet old friends again was very pleasing.
This was not in fact my first arrival at Latymer. Earlier in 1948 and following the 11+ Examination, I had been invited to Latymer to sit the Entrance Examination. I had to do a few sums, capitalise ‘london policeman’, correct the pharmacy sign ‘We dispense with accuracy ‘ and so on. It also involved an interview with the Headmaster, Mr Wilkinson. The encounter was quite uneventful as far as I was concerned and the only question I remember being asked related to my thoughts of a career when I left school. This was a question that had never occupied my mind but I had always been fascinated by the police boats that frequently whisked up and down the Thames at Putney. My answer to Mr Wilkinson was that I would like to join the river police. He gave me a benign smile and said that it did look like good fun.
When I returned home and related the incident to my mother she was horrified and seemed to think that my place at Latymer was lost. Fortunately she was wrong. In September my friends and I were all placed in Form 2L in Room 24. Our Form Master was Mr Whelan, a genial man who announced as soon as we arrived in his room that one of us would have to go to another form. He picked Terry, who immediately asked to stay with his four friends. Mr Whelan remarked that Terry’s name was rather like his and chose somebody else to go. Mr Whelan taught us mathematics and I remember his description of lines crossing parallels at equal angles as making sober and drunken Zs. At this point in my education I did not appreciate the need in mathematics for rigorous proofs but I certainly remember Mr Whelan and what he taught me.
Tickets for lunch were sold on the first day of each week at 9 old pence each, that is less than 4p in today’s currency. School lunches then comprised a meat and two vegetable main course and a sweet. During the mid-morning break the tuck shop run by Mr Crawley the caretaker sold goodies like Lyon’s Polar Maid ice creams.
Masters at the school were old, the war having interfered with the training and recruiting of younger ones but leaving some notable characters. The school chaplain, the Rev. Cann, usually known as old man Cann taught Divinity in our first year at Latymer. He was short, rotund and jovial. His lessons were devoted to a run through of selected parts of the Old Testament that I instantly forgot. Before we reached that subject Mr Cann spent the whole of every one of his weekly lessons in the first term amusing us with his abundant store of jokes suitable to twelve year old boys. Although I cannot recall anything from the Old Testamant there are still a couple of his jokes I remember.
Latymer had a workshop where Mr Treacher presided over what was called Manual Instruction, in other words elementary carpentry. There I made small things like a scraper to remove mud from shoes. As each piece of work was completed, Mr Treacher would carefully examine it, turning it in his hands to observe it from every angle before scrawling a mark out of ten on it with a big, coloured pencil. My work never received a mark greater than six. As I had no desire to become a carpenter this did not alarm me.
Mr Gibson taught French, my first exposure to a foreign language. In the first lesson much of the time was taken up by distributing books and there was no time to set the homework for that evening. So Mr Gibson instructed us to read page 6 in the text book and see what we could make of it. That evening at home I did as I was bid. Page 6 informed me about the definite and indefinite articles in the French language and I had no idea about what definite and indefinite articles might be. I concluded I could make nothing of page 6.
The senior languages master was Mr Gregory, tall and authoritative. I only had two lessons with him when other masters were ill. The first time he came into the room when we were somewhat noisy and engaged in battles, firing paper pellets across the room with rubber bands. Hi eye lit on Toulson, leading to a brief conversion.
“What is your name?” “Toulson, sir” (we were all very polite).
“What were you doing?” “Pinging paper pellets, sir” “Then I shall call you Ping.”
The lesson then started and no more was said about pinging. Later in the year Mr Gregory came to us again and as part of the lesson he asked Toulson his name. To our amusement and Mr Gregory’s surprise, the reply was “Je m’appelle Ping, Monsieur.”
Explanation was given and Mr Gregory shared in the laughter. It was several years later that I discovered that Mr Gregory was a very strong chess player. I had a great interest in chess and sometimes was asked to fill a gap on the bottom board of the Old Latymerians team playing in matches in a huge room in Central London. Mr Gregory was usually on the top board. At the end of the time allowed for the games, unfinished games were adjudicated by the team captains who had to agree the result, a draw, or a win for one player or the other. Inevitably Mr Gregory’s game had produced a complex position, most pieces on the board and highly entangled. His opponent would be sitting there looking perplexed about his next move and Mr Gregory would calmly point out how everything his
opponent could do would lead to the destruction of his position. He always seemed to be awarded the win.
In my first year at Latymer I was taught English by Mr Bayliss, one of the older masters. Like many of my friends I never had any difficulty in knowing correct from incorrect English but without any formal knowledge. It was Mr Bayliss who filled the gap and gave me an understanding of the structure of sentences and the forms of the words that they contain. It was in the English lessons that I met Graham POOLE and we were friends during my schooldays, and beyond when we married sisters.
In the Third Form (my second year at Latymer) we started Latin and I met Mr Grimsey who I suppose might have been about forty, serious but not remote, silver-grey haired, and his manner giving confidence that we would master O Level Latin. That was a requirement for entry to Oxford and Cambridge although that did not mean much to me at the time.
Later l met the masters who led me through the subjects most important to me. For mathematics it was at first Mr Stollery who proclaimed, sitting on rather than at a desk at the front of the room, that he liked to put everything on a broad basis. His personal basis was indeed broad, but his claim was well demonstrated in the mathematics he taught us. He was followed by Mr Howard who continued in the same style, and finally, when we were preparing for Cambridge, Mr Whittaker, otherwise Bob.
to form bubbles of hydrogen that rose to the ceiling. A boy stood on a bench and ignited the gas with a pleasing pop. Such were the delights of a time when Health and Safety had not been conceived. In the physics laboratory a Noughts and Crosses machine challenged visitors, and to my disappointment had been so designed that in one circumstance it would lose.
My personal contribution was a large tailless glider, reminiscent of a bird and called Crowfly. Getting that to Hammersmith by bus was not easy and required me to travel much earlier than usual. The RAF Section of the CCF constructed a wind tunnel to show the way the wings and controls of an aircraft operated. Work on this project was proceeding well until the motor we were using to create the wind burnt out. Two of my friends spent a weekend rewiring the coils and by Monday the wind was blowing again. The RAF Section of the CCF also demonstrated a parachute, simulating the wind with several cadets who pulled the canopy out of its pack and ran into the (horizontal) sky with it. I suspect that our repacking of it for the next demonstration would have not proved satisfactory if used for its proper purpose.
After the A Level Examinations in the Summer of 1955 I stayed at Latymer for the Autumn term while I applied for a place at Queens’ College, Cambridge where after my national service, I studied mathematics and met Latymerian Brian PIGGOTT. My working life started in 1961 in the Computer Division of the English Electric Company. The first computer I met there was Deuce with roots going back to the work on
“Latymer was a place of acceptance, opportunity and encouragement”
By this time there were five of us whose subject was mathematics and Bob led us into the more advanced realms of geometry. He would sit in the front row of the room and we would cluster around and behind him as he took a problem and demonstrated how to solve. The process was to scribble a possible approach, take it forward until the solution emerged or not. Usually the first few approaches failed and the paper with the unhelpful attempt hurled over his shoulder with a casual “bloody hell” or similar. After a few attempts the problem was solved and a new one started.
Physics A level was taught by Mr Abbott, a small, neat man with a dry sense of humour, who made the most beautiful equipment for our experiments. After I left Latymer he wrote a textbook that was a great success.
Latymer gave us opportunities outside of the academic curriculum. There was sport for the energetic (that certainly excluded me), the Gild for drama, the newly created relationship with the Johanneum school in Hamburg, and the Combined Cadet Force (the CCF). The last was one of my interests, taking us each Summer to an RAF Station for a week. We were shown the work of the squadrons there and were flown in any aircraft that happened to be available. My first flight was in a Lincoln, a development of the Lancaster and a huge aeroplane. Unfortunately I was the last to board and all my friends occupied the best positions in the gun turrets and the bomb aimer, radio operator and navigator’s places. I could only sit on the fuselage floor, able to see nothing of interest inside or outside of the aircraft. I still remember the roar of the four huge engines.
Every three years the school held an exhibition, an event for parents and friends to see the many and varied activities of life at Latymer, academic and otherwise. In the chemistry laboratory, water was being electrolysed
computer development and code breaking at Bletchley Park during the war. It was an awkward computer to program, lived in a large air conditioned room, employed 1,450 thermionic valves prone to failure and operated at a vanishingly low speed compared to the iPhones so many people carry in their pockets today.
I worked in IT until I retired in 2001.
I still meet old Latymerian friends Graham POOLE, John BARNES and Brian PIGGOTT. I frequently met Fergus O’BRIEN until the mid-1970s when he moved to Australia. Later we met most years when he travelled to Europe and the USA each year until he died in 2003.
When I look back at my 1950s self what do I see? A rather studious and slightly shy, perhaps a slightly eccentric boy, quiet but confident. I had a small group of close friends and good relationships with the other boys in the A stream of my year.
Latymer was a place of acceptance, opportunity and encouragement where we were given a first rate education that recognised our individual needs. I always felt completely at home at Latymer, welcomed by other pupils and the masters who taught me. I can still remember particular lessons in some detail and can vouch for the quality of the teaching in the subjects of significance to me: Latin, Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry. I have no doubt that the teaching in other subjects was equally excellent. I have many happy memories of my time at Latymer and retain the curiosity that developed there.
And as for education? Quoting from a source unknown to me: “Education is what is left after all that one has learnt is forgotten.” Latymer has left much with me.
Memoirs of a Latymerian Rebel
by John Tilbury (1954)
In 1945, when the war ended, I was still in primary school. In my final year, one of my teachers, Mrs Howard, suggested I should apply to Latymer. Her son, John Howard, taught Maths there.
Delving as far back as I can, on what might well have been the first day, I remember a meeting with semi-retired teacher, Tommy Wadhams, and 2M, first year boys from Middlesex. ‘You are the cream of the cream!’, he proclaimed.
The only other event from that time that I can recall was a disgraceful episode when an unpopular French teacher was felled by an onslaught of snowballs one wintry day in our vast playground. It was as if every single boy in that playground was determined to wreak vengeance; we were merciless. A Lord of the Flies situation. I don’t recall launching a snowball but I observed the event without demur.
It may well have been my 2nd year when I was in 3A. I had been elected, i.e. imposed by the staff, Junior School captain. I can only assume they did not know what they were letting themselves in for! (Academically I retained my position in the nether regions of the A stream until streaming ceased in the lower fifth).
I recall that in 4A our form teacher was Mr. Stollery; he bore a marked resemblance to popular images of Cupid, by which name he was known throughout the school. In UVB our form teacher was the jovial reverend Cann, Monty Cann. He extolled the virtues of Baby Jesus and Gilbert and Sullivan, enthusiasms which neither my fellow musician, David BLAKE, nor I, could share. Quite the contrary. Marx and Mahler were more our cup of tea.
Sopwith, by his accent a northerner, taught history. One of his pupils wrote fittingly on his blackboard: AH LOOV ISTREH. No belt, no braces. His trousers were held up by a tie. Occasionally, he would express his irritation: ‘There’s a boy sniggering over there’. Istreh and sniggery were incompatible. I recall an occasion when a boxing match between the American champion, Sugar Ray Robinson and the young English pretender, Randolph Turpin had caught the people’s imagination. It was a far cry from Mr. Sopwith’s history lesson which involved a discussion of late nineteenth century English conservatism. Johnny Rees, a bright spark in our class, and a keen young historian, stood up: “Isn’t it true to say” he began, “that Lord Randolph Turpin…?” the class erupted and a general merriment ensued. Sopwith was not amused. Poor Johnny, from swot to hero and man-of-themoment, sat down to reflect upon his faux pas.
Of course, the teaching of history did change in the sixties with the likes of
Christopher Hill, Eric Hobsbawm and E.P. Thompson. I recall going to a lecture by Hill when he introduced himself as a bottom-up rather than a top-down historian. Thus he would spend more time on Gerrard Winstanley than on Charles I. And it is most unlikely that we would have learnt at Latymer at that time that the author of Paradise Lost supported regicide.
“I was not popular amongst the teachers, unsurprisingly; I was often disrespectful, self-absorbed, and ‘too big for my boots’ according to Mr. Grimsey, our Latin teacher”
One of my most shameful memories concerned our maths teacher, Ted ‘Percy’ Painting. We treated him abominably with not an iota of respect. I only wish that I could have met up with him somehow, post-Latymer, and apologised. It wasn’t to be. What made it worse was that Mr. Painting played the cello in the orchestra and as a fellow musician he and I would talk out of class as if nothing had happened. I was also guilty of insolence towards Mr.Wiggins, the Games teacher. Ironically, I was in the first eleven at cricket, and the third eleven at football, but I disdained jumping over a box and running ‘round the river’. I was not popular amongst the teachers, unsurprisingly; I was often disrespectful, self-absorbed, and ‘too big for my boots’ according to Mr. Grimsey, our Latin teacher.’
In fact, I believe there had been a move to expel me. Probably for this reason I was consistently voted class captain. David BLAKE and I were self-conscious ‘artists’; we dressed differently (as far as we could), and for a brief period I wore a cap from a different school. I would occasionally skip lessons I had no interest in, for example, biology, and, if it were free, would repair to the music room. David, who became Professor of music at York University, and I were the only two in our year who took music at O level and A level. (David subsequently went to Cambridge; I went to the Royal College of Music.) I recall we formed a Mahler club at school; the club consisted of two members, David and myself. Mahler was virtually unknown in England in those days; we contrived to bring Mahler into every conversation with our peers, and our teachers. At that time, the only music master was part- time and taught music and French. (David and I liked our music teacher, Cliff Harman, and linguist Wally Grauberg, who had escaped the Nazis).
So that when we started our A level course we were off-loaded to St. Paul’s Girls’ School, where we had lessons with an elderly, lovely old German lady called Vally Lasker. She showed a reckless disregard for the A level syllabus; she preferred to talk about Holst and Vaughan Williams and in our lessons we played piano duet transcriptions of their works. It was considered unseemly for us to have lessons with the girls. On one occasion we noticed an advertisement for a school dance on the prefects door; we knocked and enquired. They opened the door about six inches and we asked for tickets. They replied, “Oh no, its only for the girls”.
I recall Mrs Wiggins, wife of our Gym teacher, and our only female teacher. She was a delightful woman and an excellent French teacher whose responsibilities were, as it seemed, only with younger, first and second year boys. As has been well documented, women were taken for granted in those days and many of them, who had of necessity taken on ‘men’s work’, were obliged to revert to their domestic duties after the war.
Memoirs of a Latymerian Rebel continued...
This is a veritable can of worms; there is much to say on the subject but I shall move on. (Nor should I neglect to mention the School Secretary, the indomitable, all-knowing Mrs Hall and her sidekick, the redoubtable George Terry.)
I was an enthusiastic actor and was consistently offered good parts in our dramatic productions. I struck up a good relationship with Wilf Sharp, the English and Drama teacher, whom I got to know through Gild weekly meetings: he was not my English teacher. I was an active member of the Gild and became Senior Clerk. Seventy years later, at home in our cottage by the sea in Deal, a photograph of the Curia evokes warm memories. At the back from left to right: Byron DAVIES, Bremner THURLEY, Anon, John TILBURY, John ROSE. Michael GLEED, Anon. The front row from left to right: Mr Mayo, the Reverend Cann, Mr Sharp, Mr Davies, the Head, Mr Bayliss, Mr Offiler, Mr Grimsey.
On leaving Latymer in 1953 I joined a Drama evening class near Great Portland street; the Stanhope Street Women’s Institute, which was run by Wilf Sharp. The class included quite a few Old Latymerians, among whom Tony MATHER, Bernard SELBY, and Bremner THURLEY spring to mind.
As for the Head, Fred Wilkinson, I do recall several brief exchanges: On the day of the entrance exam a group of us 11 year-olds gathered together in his study. He asked us one by one what we intended to be when we grew up. I recall most of us answered the question whereas I replied that I had not made up my mind, to which the Head replied: ‘Nor had I when I was your age.’ On another occasion, when I was in 2M (first year) the whole year was summoned by the Head. Somebody, an unknown boy, had breached the rules and the culprit was told to own up. Nobody raised their hand. Eventually, in an act of sheer attention-seeking I raised my hand. The Head took me to one side, on his knee, and gave me a friendly slap. On another occasion, when I was in the first-year sixth, I told him I had no wish to be a temporary prefect, that I felt I had no right to tell the juniors what and what not to do. He told me he understood my feelings and sympathised. And finally, and this was a momentous decision: my classmates and I had finished our French, German and Russian A levels in one year (I had chosen Music and missed out on Russian); they were all involved in Oxbridge scholarship work in the second year while I had applied for a Royal
College of Music scholarship. I asked the Head if I could go part-time and practise at home and he duly gave permission.
Subsequently, when I heard from the RCM that I had received an award I went to see the Head who enquired after the title of the award. I told him it was a Major Foundation Scholarship; I had added the ‘Major’, as opposed to ‘Minor’, for the purpose of aggrandisement; such was my ambition, my desire to achieve the highest level. In fact the award bore neither ‘Major’ nor ‘Minor’ in the title. But that is how it stands to this day for all to see in the Main Hall.
A propos of Russian, I recall Latymer had one girl student at that time. She attended Chiswick High School (I believe it was called), where Russian was not taught. She was an attractive girl, ogled by many of us boys from a distance. The intrepid Brian WATKINS, who subsequently went to Drama school - Bristol, I believe - was spied with his arm around her, which provoked boyish speculation. I was certainly impressed and to this day recall her name: Aisla Fryer.
Except for those of us who had sisters, my classmates had very little contact with the ‘opposite sex’. As I recall, I was the only boy, in my first year sixth class, who had a girlfriend. (With hindsight there is a lot one can say about this, but I personally regard segregation of the sexes as a huge folly and in terms of a young person’s development a psychologically injurious one, too. With regard to my two daughters, and for their children, if and when we discuss it, segregation would have been unimaginable.)
A propos of girlfriend, I recall an incident on the Latymer playing fields at Wood Lane. It concerns a cricket match between the first eleven and the Old Boys. A rain-affected, low-scoring game, it finally dribbled to a halt and we began to pack our bags. I called my girlfriend, who lived locally, and we agreed to meet up, probably at a station, Latimer Road or Shepherds Bush – I can’t recall.
Suddenly, as English weather is wont to do, the sun broke out and there was a dramatic change. The two captains agreed there should be an unprecedented second innings. I instinctively realised I was in an invidious position. Margaret had left home to meet up with me;. there was no way I would stand her up. I explained this to the Old Boys captain, one Ted PHILLIPS, who was definitely ‘old school’. He was outraged; that I should consider the minimal discomfort of a young woman of more importance than a game of cricket put me beyond the pale. Anyway, off I went while the two teams completed their second innings. I cant recall the sequel, although I was chastised, tongue-in-cheek(?), by the sportsmaster and, by way of punishment, I may have been dropped for a match? What would have happened in this day and age? Nothing. We all have mobile phones!
My cricketing career at Latymer had its moments, beginning with my very first game in the First Eleven, which happened to be against one of the Cambridge colleges. It was also IKEY Green’s first match; IKEY, a year younger than me, was a talented pace bowler. Our opponents went in first and scored 120, a relatively modest score. However, perhaps overwhelmed by the time-honoured surroundings, we were reduced to 80 for 9. The result seemed to be a foregone conclusion when IKEY and I found ourselves in partnership at the wicket. However, in dribs and drabs we accumulated runs until their wicket-keeper/captain ripped off his pads, measured out a long run and, frothing at the mouth, bowled me a long hop which I dispatched for 4. IKEY, the main scorer, and I put on the required runs and we won the match by 1 wicket. As I dimly recall, in the
school assembly the following Monday morning the Head heaped fulsome praise on us; IKEY and I had risen to the occasion.
I have less happy memories of a match on the playing fields of Eton, which we had to endure once a year. I had gone in at 6 or 7 when we were struggling. I stonewalled and tried to keep my end up. Their captain had a word with the bowler who bowled me a slow full toss, which I missed and was bowled. The bowler laughed onomatopoeically as only an upper-class Etonian can: “He fell for it” - as we plebs tend to. I was inconsolable. Staying with cricket, J.W. Hearne, retired England and Middlesex batsman used to come along to our net practice to give tips and encouragement. In my last term at Latymer, Hearne had recommended fast bowler Basil JERVIS and myself for Middlesex Colts trials at Lords. However, I had just been awarded a scholarship to the Royal College of Music and decided such a step would be mutually incompatible. Subsequently, just occasionally, I have regretted my decision; it was unlikely, but supposing I had been successful at Lords? Whatever. In my 88th year I am playing the clavichord; I would not have been wielding a cricket bat. At best, clutching my stick I might have been underarming to my grandchildren.
I recall an occasion when Latymer had started twinning with the Johanneum school in Hamburg. We were to join our German hosts in a camp in Holzminden for a week whence we were paired off to join a family in Hamburg. At the Johanneum we performed an excerpt from a play by Sheridan, The Critics, in which I played Mr. Puff. Later in the programme I performed classical music on the piano. My German family were adamant. ‘You will be an actor’ they informed me. For better or for worse it was not to be.
At Latymer at the time there was a not insignificant number of Jewish refugees from Nazi Germany/Austria. Wally FREIDL was one; he played Perdido on the piano, a kind of party piece; there were frequent parties. George NUKI, in particular, became a good friend although he was a year below me. Most of the refugees seemed to live in the Earls Court area. They were mainly middle-class professionals, and left-wing. George’s Father was Secretary of the British Socialist Dentists. I found it all quite exotic, so different from Sudbury Hill! His parents overwhelmed me with their friendship. They were delighted that their son had an English friend. In later years George was working in a hospital in Edinburgh, as a consultant, I believe, but we lost touch.
I have yet to mention school dinners. I stopped having school dinnersabout which I recall very little except that they were at the rear end of the expansive playground - when I became a sixth-former. I would frequent a small café a few yards along the road on the right hand side going towards Hammersmith. The main attraction was an attractive, dark-haired Swedish lady who served me regularly with a cheese sandwich, a penguin and a cup of milky coffee, all for 1 shilling and threepence. She was probably in her thirties and was infuriatingly ‘nice’ to me. I was simply out of my depth!
This is a highly subjective account – one which may well be unrecognisable to many of my contemporaries, some of whom progressed through the seven years in the very same classes as myself. I recall my very last morning at Latymer; the Head, as usual in the main hall, was addressing the whole school, and to some of us saying goodbye. For some reason I thought he might mention me by name. Of course he didn’t. Why should he? But, clearly, Latymer had meant a lot to me. And thinking about it, unsurprisingly - we probably spent more of our waking hours at school than at home.
Needless to say, in the unlikely event of any of my old classmates reading this, and feeling inclined to respond, I would be delighted to hear from them.
Memoirs of a Latymerian Rebel
by John Tilbury
400 historical years of 1600
Latymer
1760
Death of George II, accession, George III
1790
Louis Weltje, clerk of the kitchen to the Prince Regent, buys Seagreens Nursery, land now currently occupied by the West London Free School
1801
Hammersmith population stands at 5,600; 871 houses are recorded in the parish
1756
New schoolhouse was built on the north side of the churchyard, the boys occupied the upper floor and the girls occupied the lower. The costs of this building work was split between the two schools
1808
Rivercourt House built on the site of Queen Dowager, Catherine of Braganza’s former home
1816
London had a population of around 200,000 of whom approx 1,000 lived in Hammersmith
1603
Death of Elizabeth I, accession of James VI
1605
1611
The King James Version of the Bible published, the new authorised translation
1724
Bishop of London issues a directive re charity school curriculum and requires every teacher to be a member of the Church of England and “of known affection to King George I”
1727
Death of George I, accession, George II
1819
The St Paul’s churchyard schoolhouse was further enlarged to accommodate a growing number of girls and boys
Sir Francis Ronald invents the electric telegraph on Upper Mall, beside Kelmscott House
Two rooms erected at north end of the churchyard adjoining the Latymer school as a National School for 240 children
The Gun Powder Plot
1627
Edward Latymer dies. Eight Latymer Foundation boys attend petty schools in Fulham
1642
Civil War breaks out. Royalist army halted at the Battle of Turnham Green. Temporary bridge of boats built to convey Parliamentary troops from Putney 1622
Edward Latymer acquires Butterwick Manor in Hammersmith as an investment; he never lives there
1624
Edward Latymer writes his Will, contemplating the bequest of almost 30 acres of Butterwick Manor to pay for the upkeep of 6 almsmen and the education of 8 poor boys in Hammersmith
1695
Bank of England issues bank notes, the money economy begins
1700
London had rapidly expanded to become Europe’s largest city, with a population of around 575,000, eclipsing Paris and Naples
1837
1629
Charles I suspended Parliament, and started 11 years of personal rule
1685
Death of Charles II, accession James II
1689
Accession, William III & Mary II
Death of William IV, accession of Victoria Railways arrive in Hammersmith with station in Harrow Road
1666
The Great Fire Of London
1674
Isaac Le Gooch (Charles II’s jeweller) moves into Hyde Lodge, where the LUS boathouse currently stands
1851
Hammersmith population stands at 17,000, with the single largest profession being brickworking
1844
West London Railway links Hammersmith with Kensington
1650
Ralph Griggs rents waterfront property (the current Riverside House)
1649
Execution (“regicide”) of Charles I
1658
Cromwell Dies
1660
Accession, Charles II Catholic Queen Dowager of Charles II, Catherine of Braganza, takes up residence at Riverside House on Upper Mall. She illegally sets up a Catholic school for girls opposite Butterwick Manor, now called Sacred Heart Girls
1870
1869
Ravenscourt Park tube line opens
1863
The Latymer Foundation School sets up in a new building on Hammersmith Road, designed to accommodate 200 boys. Female Charity School remains in the schoolhouse in St Paul’s churchyard and becomes the girls department of St Paul’s National School
1655
Great Plague, infections especially rife in the waterside villages including Hammersmith
1657
A Hammersmith parish charity school is established. Schoolhouse is constructed at St Paul’s Church and Latymer pupils join
The Forster Education Act, making elementary school education free and mandatory for all expenses to be covered by rates. London School Board becomes the authority in Greater London
1878
Endowed School Act, Latymer Foundation School is now publicly funded with Latymer Foundation contributing no more than £250 per year, allowing the school to fix tuition fees at between 2-9 pence per week per student. Distinctive Latymer school uniform and numbered badges discontinued
1881
Hammersmith population stands at 72,000
1883
The Latymer Foundation began to plan for establishing a new, secondary, Latymer Upper School. The process began of acquiring ownership of the rest of the Hyde Lodge site, completed by 1889
1882
St Paul’s Church is rebuilt
1887
1893
The foundation stone of the new Upper School was laid
Hammersmith Bridge rebuilt; a temporary wooden bridge built alongside to accommodate pedestrians
1949
1895
1952
Death of George VI, accession, Elizabeth II
1955
Latymer boys take part in the first French exchange with the Lycee Chaptal in Paris
1957
The School takes part in the first pilot project of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme
1963
The first Latymer visit to Hamburg. The Dedication of the Memorial Window in the Hall, honouring the 119 Latymerians who fell in the Second World War. Rugby at Latymer begins
1951
The Governors acquire Rivercourt House, to be used for the Preparatory Department and Sixth Form
The Latymer Foundation School on Hammersmith Road closed
1962
A record number of places (32) are won at Oxford and Cambridge by Latymerians
1900
Mendel Trachtenberg became the first Latymerian to win an award at Cambridge, an Exhibition in Mathematics at St John’s College. (His brother Henry followed him to Trinity College the following year)
January 9th, Latymer Foundation Upper School opens on King Street, 106 day boys with fees fixed at £2-£5 per year
1947
The Johanneum Exchange begins
1948
The first Johanneum boys visit Latymer
1971
1965
The Beatles play at Hammersmith Odeon
1901
Death of Victoria, accession, Edward VII. Hammersmith population stands at 112,000
1945
Following the Butler Education Act in 1944, Latymer Upper School becomes a Direct Grant Grammar School
1940
1940 to 1945
The Dining Hall and ‘ABC Block’ buildings were opened by the Minister of Education, the Rt. Hon. Margaret Thatcher, MP Want to stay connected for the next chapter?
Approximately 5,500 H&F residents are killed by Nazi bombings
1964
The Boat House opens
1966 The Combined Cadet Force at Latymer disbands
1975
The Swimming Pool opens
1976
Latymer Upper School becomes independent, with the end of the Direct Grant system
1904
The Latymer Foundation took on the recently closed Sir William Godolphin’s Grammar School, in order to reshape it as the Godolphin and Latymer School for Girls. During work to refurbish and alter the Iffley Road buildings, the Godolphin and Latymer girls were taught in what is now ‘E’ Block on the King Street site
1905
The Governors acquired the sports field at Wood Lane, previously a military training ground. The Cadet Corps was set up
1938
1936
Death of George V, abdication of Edward VIII, accession of George VI
Rowing begins, using the boathouse of the Furnivall Sculling Club
1980
The Sports Hall opens
1932
1906
The School buildings were extended to house the growing numbers of pupils
1907
1908
Swimming began at Lime Grove baths, built by the Borough of Hammersmith on what had been Latymer Foundation land
General Sir John French opened the Rifle Range. Godolphin & Latymer school opens funded by Latymer Foundation (£8,000 investment plus £500 p.a. to cover operating costs)
Hammersmith Odeon opens, gaining a legendary reputation with several iconic gigs played there by Bob Marley and The Wailers in 1976. It is now known as the Eventim Apollo
1933
Riverside Studios begins life as a movie studio. It is later taken over by the BBC hosting such productions as Dr Who
1996
The Sixth Form becomes co-educational
1981
The start of the Assisted Places Scheme
2024
400th anniversary of The Latymer Foundation
1915
The first Prefects were appointed
1910
Death of Edward VII, accession George V
1922
1928
The foundation of The Gild under the first Reve, Mr F.J. Skinner
The first known overseas tour by Latymerians, to St Germain-en-Laye, near Paris. Regular tours to Germany and Austria followed until the Second World War
1930
Hammersmith population reaches 300,000 between the two World Wars, but then falls as people move away to less crowded areas
2004
1999
The Latymer Arts Centre and the Edward Latymer Theatre open
1997
Assisted Places scheme abolished
Foundation Office opensfundraising for bursaries begins. Girls are welcomed into Year 7 as the school becomes fully co-educational
2003
Co-education introduced to Years 3 and 4 at the Prep School
2008
The Latymer Performing Arts Centre, including the Recital Hall and Dance Studio, opens
2010
2023
75th year Anniversary of the Hamburg Exchange
2022
Death of Elizabeth II, accession of Charles III
2015
The Latymer Sports Centre opens
2014
The Inspiring Minds campaign launches to raise £40m for bursaries by 2024
Governors award the first Latymer Foundation bursary to a Prep pupil
A SNAPSHOT of LATYMER
Luxembourg School Trip circa 1957
Meet the new head of LATYMER UPPER
Susan Wijeratna
“The bursary programme is second to none. It’s the beating heart of Latymer and really connects us to our past. I love that it allows the School to enable children from all different backgrounds to mix and to dissipate the narrative that is out there around independent schools.”
Can you share a bit about your background and what drew you to education leadership?
I’m the daughter of a Headmaster and a geography teacher, so the one thing I was never going to do was to go into teaching! My father, who was the Head of Epsom College at the time, was short of a geography teacher and persuaded me to ‘give it a go’. He thought I would enjoy it and, as it turned out, I very soon became hooked. I’ve worked in a number of different schools, gaining a whole range of experience – everything from running the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award to being a resident tutor in a boarding house.
All those leadership experiences meant that I kept getting asked to take on more areas of responsibility or apply for more senior roles. It’s the variety of all those different roles that has kept on drawing me in; first as a Head of Department (geography), then as a Housemistress and then into senior leadership as a Deputy Head.
Each and every stage has been a new learning experience and I really feel that I can make a difference to the student experience and also to staff, parents and the wider community. It’s hugely rewarding.
What aspects of Latymer Upper School’s ethos and community attracted you to the role of Head?
The bursary programme is second to none. It’s the beating heart of Latymer and really connects us to our past. I love that it allows the School to enable children from all different backgrounds to mix and to dissipate the narrative that is out
there around independent schools. I’m a West Londoner at heart and it has always been a school I’ve admired for its partnership work, its academic and co-curricular reputation and its energy. Being married to a Latymerian was also a draw for me as I felt that I already knew a fair amount about the School and the characters who have passed down that main corridor. In your opinion, what makes Latymer Upper School unique, and how do you hope to build upon its existing strengths?
It’s hard to put your finger on it, but I love the liberal feel of the school, mixed with its sense of purpose. ‘Unique’ is a difficult word to use amongst schools, but our bursary programme sets us apart and is something that we will continue to build on. I’m excited that we’re leading on curriculum reform and am confident that this will equip our students to flourish both during and beyond their time at Latymer, leading with a sense of commitment to the community and an appreciation of how much their school experience has enabled them to go out and do great things, but have a lot of fun along the way.
Can you highlight anything in particular that you’re looking forward to during your first year as Head?
I feel incredibly proud and honoured to be leading the School through its 400th anniversary year. Such anniversaries don’t come around very often and it provides a wonderful opportunity for me to meet even more people than I might have done.
400 years of Community
The focus on social inclusion is as strong at Latymer now as when we were founded 400 years ago. We take our responsibility for being a ‘good neighbour’ seriously with community and charity partnerships at the heart of Latymer life.
Building Social Responsibility: Latymer’s commitment to social inclusion goes beyond words. We equip our students to become active citizens through dedicated educational programmes. One such initiative is the Lower Sixth voluntary service, where students dedicate time to local causes. This hands-on experience aims to instil greater philanthropic and community awareness, contributions, skills, and aspirations.
Last year, 210 Lower Sixth students volunteered at 35 local organisations working with causes such as education (art, debating coaches, literacy support, teaching assistants, chess club, Latin); sport (basketball, football, rowing); and homelessness support. This amounted to over 4,300 hours of their time, and with very positive feedback as a result: ‘We are absolutely blown away by our Partnership Volunteers. They are diligent, thorough and get the children so excited. They are a real asset to the School.’Hammersmith 21st Scouts.
‘Having your students volunteer with us has been an absolute pleasure. They work hard, adapt to what is needed here, and represent Latymer excellently!’ - The Upper Room
‘Please may I take this opportunity to pass on my sincere thank you for all of S’s contributions to the hospital. We are all so impressed with her and she often goes above and beyond to improve the hospital experience for patients.’ - Charing Cross Hospital
Partnerships for Impact: Our network extends beyond the school walls. We collaborate with around 150 local schools, organisations, and charities, directly impacting over 3,000 children annually. Of these, around 2,300 children use our facilities for free or at cost, including our world-class swimming pool, astroturfs, fields, and playgrounds. More than 100 partner school sixth formers attended our careers and higher education programmes last year alongside Latymer students, and over 300 primary school children came to join the audiences of our music scholar recitals.
Hosting holiday camps for incredible partner organisations allows us to continue giving back while school is out of term-time, and helps address holiday hunger for some of the most disadvantaged young students in our local area.
‘The Latymer Foundation have once again supported LMP Action throughout 2023 with access to amazing facilities and introduction to Latymer students who have used their spare time to support our initiatives. LMP Action have run 10 weeks of holiday provision from Latymer Upper School which has allowed us to offer 2,500 spaces over the year, to children who are predominantly on free school meals or from families that have been identified as needing support.’ - Natalie Glasby, Let Me Play Action CIC
In this 400th-anniversary year, we’re further extending our reach. Local schools were invited to educational art workshops at Cromwell Place during the “murmuration” exhibition. We welcomed 60 Year 3 children from a local primary school, who enjoyed a detailed tour of the exhibition, immersive drawing activities and opportunity to exhibit their work in the gallery.
Ahead of May half-term, we hosted 30 Year 6 children from five local primary schools for our inaugural “Play in a Day”. Directed by Latymer A-level Drama students, visiting children performed short plays themed on the Elements. They were immersed in movement, speech, confidence, imagination, performance and exciting drama activities. Performances included technical lighting, sound effects and a smoke machine! The children joined our Prep School for lunch and enjoyed a game or two on the playground.
Measuring Progress: We believe in going beyond simply doing good; we take steps to track our progress and impact, and challenge ourselves strategically to do even more. This year, we launched our inaugural Social Impact Report, meticulously outlining the impact of our bursary programmes, community partnerships, and student social responsibility initiatives. Notably, it delves into the quantitative and strategic approaches we take to measure the outcomes of these programmes, not just the activities themselves.
Core programmes spotlight: STEM Academy: STEM Academy welcomed 31 enthusiastic children from Year 7 & 8, from six local maintained schools. They attended Latymer for a series of engaging and educational workshops. The primary goal was to inspire and enrich the students’ understanding, knowledge and interest in STEM subjects. Children were selected by their teachers and prioritised with those coming from backgrounds that might otherwise limit their access to such enriching experiences.
The programme was delivered by five Latymer staff representing the IT and Computing, Science and Design departments. They were further supported by eight students from Year 10, Year 11 & Year 12 (participating through Service in the Community). They provided a diverse range of activities including computer-aided design, building, coding, and deploying remote-controlled hovercrafts on a series of exciting races in the Main Hall with team names ranging from Rapid Ramen, Velocity Vortex, Monkey Men to Chilli Jam and The Bumbles. Physics delivered the final session - an interactive lesson in flight and aerodynamics with paper planes and cardboard-engineered wings. Each child was also gifted their own Binary Bots build and code Tortoise together with a BBC micro:bit pocket-sized computer, serving as both a tool for coding and a memento.
‘My favourite thing was that we can use tools that we don’t always have access to’ - STEM participant
‘My favourite was learning new solutions and ways to solve problems, and learning new things that will help me at school’ - STEM participant
‘Thank you for running this programme, it’s such a great opportunity for our students.’ - Hammersmith Academy
‘I just wanted to say a very big thank you for this invaluable experience. My twin boys thoroughly enjoyed it and I will be looking around for similar things to continue their curiosity.’ - STEM parent
‘My daughter and I would like to thank you and the team so much for all your kind support and encouragement. It was an amazing programme and she enjoyed it a lot. I really appreciate the management and all your team’s efforts to ensure our children engage, learn, and develop their skills through this programme.’ - STEM parent.
Our Local Partners:
To read more about our impact and how we track it, our ‘Social Impact’ report can be found here:
Charlie GARDINER (2001)
transforming places
building communities
Charlie successfully set up Incipio, a business venture in 2016 that transforms forgotten spaces into popular venues, including a rooftop near the BBC building in White City (Pergola on the Roof), followed by others in Paddington, Olympia and Brixton, among others.
Charlie attended Latymer from the age of seven and loves to tell stories of climbing out of windows and other naughtiness, but also speaks fondly of all the lifelong friends he made in those years, many of whom have become successful entrepreneurs like him!
It was on a rainy day in West London, as Charlie was looking for a soft play centre for his young son, that he realised there was a space in the market for a facility that catered to the whole family. Fast forward to 2021 when Jaego’s House and Kensal House Nursery opened on the Harrow Road. This stunning building on the canal, built in late 1700s as a private home, was where Richard Branson started Virgin in 1986. It had since fallen into disrepair. After some considerable research with a team of other parents, and using capital from a previous business venture, Charlie created an innovative family members club and nursery. While the heart of the establishment beats with the laughter of children navigating supervised soft play areas and jungle gyms, adults find solace in a dedicated gym and workspaces. There are also many activities on offer – such as cooking classes catering to all age groups, fostering an inclusive environment where families converge.
Reflecting on his vision, Charlie shares, “Every parent dreams of finding somewhere that they love visiting just as much as their children do. And that is exactly how we want our members and play guests to feel about Jaego’s House. I lived in Kensal Rise for six years and walked past this building daily, thinking that it could be transformed into an amazing space. My son, Jaego, was born just 500 metres away and so it felt like the perfect fit.”
The overwhelming success of this concept is evidenced by a burgeoning waitlist for membership. With the recent inauguration of Jesse’s House in Parsons Green, paying homage to Charlie’s second child, and plans underway for a third venue, named after his daughter, the legacy of community-centric entrepreneurship continues to thrive.
Charlie has also recently gone into partnership with his friend and fellow Latymerian, Joe GROSSMAN (2001), owner of the Patty and Bun restaurant chain. Together, they have bought the Waterman’s Arms in Barnes.
Charlie has generously offered to help any young alumni with mentoring or advice about setting up a business. If you’d like to get in touch please email latymerians@latymerfoundation.org
Jaego’s House
social
responsibility a Latymerian ethos
LATYMERIAN CHANGEMAKERS
I currently sit on the council for Hammersmith and Fulham. Elected in May 2022, I represent residents of Hammersmith Broadway ward. As part of my position, I have also been given the role of ‘Lead Member for Women and Girls’, which involves developing our policy to combat the subjugation of all marginalised genders. I have also - very recently - accepted an internship with the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime.
While at university I became involved in a variety of community projects. Perhaps most formatively, I joined my college feminist society which deeply challenged and expanded my view of politics. This led me to intern at ‘Beyond Equality’, a healthy masculinities charity and to campaign against the university in the wake of COVID redundancies and toleration of sexual violence. I also became involved with the organisation ‘Sing Inside’, a beautiful charity which delivers musical education to prison residents across the country. Collectively, this formed an interest in socialist policies, particularly regarding reimagining our carceral, policing and criminal justice systems.
When I returned from university, I thought I would use some of my spare unemployed time to start canvassing with my local Labour Party for the upcoming local elections. I enjoyed the teamwork and decided to look for Labour Party campaign assistant positions in London. I ended up spending several months across the London Borough of Harrow campaigning for a Labour administration.
Through this work, I also became interested in becoming a councillor myself. I sent a couple of inquisitive and very last-minute emails and somehow, after a candidate dropped out, I was selected by Hammersmith Labour Party members to run.
Having been elected I immediately knew I wanted to work on the council’s policies on gender or crime so the position of ‘Lead Member for Women and Girls’ was a natural fit. I’m currently focused on ensuring that H&F’s response to gender-based violence and
subjugation is as preventive as it is reactive, and that good intent from the council is matched with proper funding and supports systemic culture change.
Last year, I also took on the role of Mayor which I must admit was not something I had previously considered! However, it was an immense privilege and allowed me to quickly learn how the council operates. People tend to assume it is largely ribbon cutting – plot twist I’ve never cut a ribbon! In reality, it is far more about encouraging involvement with the council and chairing political debate. And while I have serious reservations about the intent and impact of representation politics, especially when divorced from class politics, there were definitely benefits to the role being held by a young woman. Recently, I have been trained by the charity ‘Circles’ to provide post-release, pro-social support to people convicted of crimes of a sexual nature.
Aside from council work I continue to volunteer. I spent a summer volunteering in Calais with a grassroots organisation providing family assistance to asylum seekers, and I also continue to volunteer with ‘Sing Inside’ and support abolitionist activism.
It has been indescribably overwhelming to be elected to local government, to meet such a range of people and have insight into how communities and public services function. It has also made starkly clear which issues plague us most deeply, notably that our housing stock is in crisis and transformative investment is needed into building council homes. I also firmly believe that our electoral, two-party system is a root of our slow progress and stifled political debate.
I’m not sure whether I will remain working within the institution of politics, I am still to decide if my efforts are best placed from the outside or whether I should do something else entirely. However, I’m certainly pleased to have played a small role in a much needed change in government!
SCHOOL NEWS
Our Chaplain, Greg Cook is delighted to announce that ‘Breath’, a new piece of work for our Chapel in our 400th year, made by Latymer art teacher Jane Clarke, has been installed. It is the first piece of spiritual art we have had in the Chapel for 40 years and powerfully relates to our other windows. ‘Breath’ is a beautiful olive tree, which not only is sacred to many faiths, but is a reminder of peace at a time when our world feels fractured by war. It is history in the making, and a physical marker of our 400th year for decades to come.
Latymer
Mathletes: Intermediate Maths Challenge
With about 250,000 students participating each year and only the top 2,000 qualifying for the follow-on
Olympiads, our students shone! Jake (Year 9) earned a bronze medal, placing him among the top 100 scores in Year 9. Tianyou (Year 10) achieved a gold medal with full marks, earning a ‘Best in London’ certificate - an incredible achievement, and Ha-anh (Year 11) also earned a gold medal, placing them both in the top 20 scores for their year group.
Neurodiversity
Celebration Week 2024
We celebrated Neurodiversity Week, a global initiative that is all about challenging stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences while providing opportunities to recognise the many talents and advantages of being neurodivergent.
Throughout the week, our Academic Mentoring Department organised student-led assemblies, focusing on neurodiversity awareness and the resources they offer.
Moreover our students visited St Peter’s CE Primary, where they spoke on neurodiversity awareness and inclusivity.
We also welcomed Ollie and Lola, our beloved Therapy Dogs, whose presence brought joy and comfort to all. And what’s a celebration without some indulgence? Our bake sale and cake cutting with Head, Susan Wijeratna not only satisfied sweet cravings but also raised an impressive £494 for our fund dedicated to supporting assessments for our undiagnosed students.
What’s more, our library team curated a stand featuring works by neurodiverse authors, which celebrated diversity in literature and encouraged students to explore different perspectives and voices.
But perhaps the most profound moments were captured in the voices of our community members. “We believe Neurodiversity is a superpower,” expressed the school’s ethos as we asked students and staff within the Latymer community to share their thoughts and opinions via our Instagram channel.
In embracing Neurodiversity Celebration Week, Latymer reaffirmed its commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment where all individual’s strengths are celebrated and valued.
Sixth Formers excel in their EPQ
The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) stands as a cornerstone of our Sixth Form curriculum, empowering students to delve into their passions, formulate probing research questions, and undertake comprehensive academic investigations. At Latymer, we offer both dissertation EPQ in which pupils answer their question through researching academic literature, and artefact EPQ where pupils meet a consumer need by designing and making something.
This year, our students have astounded us with the breadth and depth of their inquiries, tackling diverse and thought-provoking topics that reflect their intellectual curiosity and academic prowess. As they embrace the challenges of independent study, they hone essential skills in academic research, analytical thinking, time management, and self-directed learning – skills that will serve them well in their future academic endeavours.
With pride, we announce the outstanding achievements of our EPQ cohort, with 69 students completing the course and garnering remarkable results: 72% of pupils gaining an A* 19% of pupils gaining an A 9% of pupils gaining a B
Latymer
Celebrates 400 Years with Gala Concert
Amidst the celebration of our 400th anniversary, we were thrilled to witness a great turnout from the Latymer community at the Gala concert held at Cadogan Hall - a fantastic way to celebrate Latymer music with a night to remember. The evening featured
exceptional performances by current pupils, staff, and alumni, including the world-renowned Latymerian Cellist, Raphael WALLFISCH (1971)
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us in commemorating our 400th anniversary.
The latest from LUSBC
The Summer Term has been fast-paced and action-packed with events almost every weekend. We’ve raced at a competitive level at Wallingford
Regatta, Bedford Regatta, Caversham GB Invitational Regatta, MET Regatta, National Schools’, Marlow, Henley Women’s, and Henley Royal to name a few! The first half of term saw the season ‘peak’ for many in the form of the National Schools’ Regatta. We entered 10 VIIIs and one single into this prestigious regatta held over three days. With strong competition from some of the best Schools and Clubs in the country, the School placed in the top 10 in all of the 1st VIII categories. Particular highlights were the Y11 Girls 1st VIII who narrowly missed out on a Bronze medal finishing 4th, and the Y10 Girls VIII who came 3rd in the time trial but had to row in an unfavoured lane coming 5th. Leopold, Y13 was successful in being selected for Great Britain at the Munich Regatta, in which he won two Gold medals. We also had six boys racing at the Great Britain Small Boats Regatta trial, and our Y11 Girls 4 were successful in being selected to race for Great Britain against the French National Team. The second half of term culminated with Henley Royal Regatta. At Henley, the Boys’ and Girls’ 1st VIII raced against Shiplake College and Kingston Grammar, narrowly missing out on further progression to the next rounds. Also at Henley, Latymer held a special lunchtime lap, otherwise known as a ‘Row Past’ to celebrate our 400th anniversary! For all those who know rowing, you’ll know this is a huge privilege.
Quintin Hogg Memorial Ground (new Chiswick sports grounds)
– The Latymer Orchard.
Our latest update features the wonderful and dedicated Latymer Orchard Society and others who have been working together to transform the Latymer Orchard, a once barren space in the North East corner of the ground, into a biodiverse haven.
The team have been busy pruning for the year ahead, planting trees (Pear, Plum and Crab Apple) and they’ve used the cuttings from the trees to create a dead hedge which will be both a wind-breaker and a biodiversity feature.
The regenerated orchard will be a sanctuary where our Latymerians can relax and rejuvenate, drive their own eco-initiatives and contribute to the welfare of our wonderful plants and animals.
It will be a place for learning, where students can see real-life examples of what they are studying in Biology and Geography whilst watching plants and flowers come to life. Our Prep pupils will have cooking lessons with the fruit we’ve grown and collected from the orchard, and we’re also planning to make jams which will be made and sold at our fairs.
All proceeds from the harvest will go to Trips and Activities fund, so that all our students here at Latymer can participate, regardless of financial needs.
2024
Alumni Survey
Day 1: LUS 1st XI vs. MCC
Cricket
Week 2024
Cricket Week was a huge success! It was fantastic to host our alumni from the OLCC (Old Latymerians’ Cricket Club) for three games.
On the first day, we saw the 1st XI draw to the famous MCC (Marylebone Cricket Club ) for only the second time in Latymer history!
Day 2: LUS 1st XI vs. Old Latymerians’ Cricket Club
Day 3: HEAD’s XI Day, including LUS 1st XI vs. Head’s XI (alumni), LUS U13A Girls vs. Godolphin, LUS U12A Boys vs. Kew House, and LUS Prep Year 5 vs. RPPS
Final Day: LUS 1st XI vs. The CW XI - raising funds for The Brain Tumour Charity in memory of former student Christian WHITE (2023).
Many of you will have recently received a survey link from us - thank you to everyone who filled in a response. We’ll use your feedback to better tailor our communications and the content of alumni media like this magazine. It was wonderful to hear how Latymerians feel about our Inspiring Minds campaign after 10 years since its launch in 2014. We appreciate all of your kind words and constructive feedback. We are especially proud that so many of you showed an interest in volunteering in our archives, coming back to speak to our current students, and mentoring recent graduates.
If you missed the survey and would like to express your interest in volunteering at Latymer, please let us know by contacting us at info@latymerfoundation.org
Once a Latymerian, always a Latymerian
Unlock a world of connections with www.latymerconnects.com
Join our vibrant online community where alumni (and some former staff!) come together.
Whether you’re seeking networking opportunities, careers advice and mentorship, reconnecting with old friends or simply staying updated on school news, Latymer Connects is your gateway.
Events
Available now from latymerfoundation.org/shop
Peter Pan - The Staff Pantomime 17-20 January 2024
The staff wrote another panto? Oh yes they did!
Our anniversary year got off to a rollicking start with a firm family favourite, the staff panto – this year was a special Latymer rendition of Peter Pan! Neverland (aka the Edward Latymer Theatre) was filled to the rafters for our school pantomime to welcome in the New Year with plenty of laughter and camaraderie. Tickets flew out of the box office faster than pixie dust…
The biannual pantomime saw a talented bunch of Latymer teachers take to the stage, raising £15k in ticket sales and donations for the Bursaries Appeal.
400th Anniversary Launch 25 January 2024
The 400th Anniversary Launch saw guests become part of history in the making as we celebrated a remarkable milestone – the 400th Anniversary of the Latymer Foundation. It was an incredibly special evening, and a true tribute to the past, present and future of Latymer.
We heard from a number of speakers including our new Head, Susan Wijeratna, Historian and Latymerian, Taylor DOWNING (1971), Latymer parent and Latymer 400 book researcher, Christine Gregg, and our very own History teachers Jonny White (Head of History) and Marc Stewart.
We also showcased Latymer 400, our incredible history book celebrating the Latymer Foundation’s 400th anniversary. This beautifully illustrated hardback is a lively history of the Latymer Foundation, its creation and evolution, alongside that of the village of Hammersmith.
Latymerians, including leading historians, along with staff members past and present, have all contributed to writing and researching the book.
Scan to purchase Latymer 400:
murmuration - A Celebration of Art Cromwell Place - South Kensington 5-11 January 2024
Over 300 alumni and friends of Latymer joined (now former), Head of Art, David Mumby for a reunion of artistic talents at our alumni celebration of art. The exhibition celebrated the achievements of 50 Latymerians’ who have progressed from the Art studios at school in Hammersmith into careers in the Creative Industries in London and beyond. We were delighted when Latymerian, retired architect and former Governor of 22 years, Nigel WOOLNER
(1958) agreed to exhibit at the show. Nigel studied Art at Latymer under the inspirational Head of Art, Sydney Merrils from 19511957 and even loaned us an original piece of art by Sydney to share with guests at the exhibition.
Held at Cromwell Place, our venue partner, the exhibition included a private view for our Leadership List donors, a drinks reception for our parent community and a reunion for our young alumni (under 40s)with a particular focus on key anniversary years. Nearly 200 former classmates and teachers reunited over drinks to catch up and share their news!
On the Road: Manchester & Bristol 26 February 2024
We headed to Manchester and Bristol in February where alumni joined us for a ‘cuppa and cake’, or at an evening reception to rekindle their old school connections and network with fellow Latymerians studying, working and living around these locations.
David Mumby’s Retirement Exhibition 7 March 2024
We were delighted to have some 85 Latymerians join us in celebration of former Head of Art, David Mumby. The exhibition transported us through the vibrant tapestry of David’s artistic legacy, featuring a collection of original paintings, drawings, prints, sculptures, stained glass, and his latest literary creations.
400th Commemorative School Play
Premiere of Love, Liebe, Lyubov Richmond Theatre | 8 March 2024
Latymerian, actor and playwright, Ruby THOMAS (2009), was specially commissioned to write a play for our 400th anniversary. The resulting piece was a poignant account of one of the most moving stories in our School’s history. ‘Love. Liebe. Lyubov.’ told the story of Latymer Upper School’s first exchange trip with a school in Hamburg, shortly after the end of the Second World War. While the play was about the first Latymer exchange with the Johanneum school in Hamburg, it was about so much more as it dramatised the tensions between different nations with sensitivity and humour.
Exclusive Guided Tour of the Imperial War Museum with Taylor Downing 16 March 2024
Due to popular demand, the Imperial War Museum tour sold out again in a flash. Latymer alumni and friends enjoyed a unique experience with historian Taylor DOWNING (1971). Taylor shared his expertise and brought the museum’s collection to life with fascinating insights. The tour concluded with a chance to connect over drinks and conversation at a nearby pub!
400th Anniversary Concert at Cadogan Hall Sloane Square | 21 March 2024
Thank you to everyone who joined us as we celebrated our 400th anniversary at Cadogan Hall, one of London’s most prestigious concert venues. Our line-up of Latymerian musicians delivered stunning performances throughout the evening, captivating all who attended. It was a monumental event, highlighted by a special performance from Latymerian Raphael WALLFISCH (1971), commemorating the Latymer Foundation’s 400th
Manchester Bristol
Calam LYNCH (2013) & Ruby THOMAS (2009)
Antony (1953) and Kit (1957) PECK were among the first boys to go on the Johanneum Exchange.
Nigel WOOLNER (1958)
Head, Susan Wijeratna and Chair of Governors, Kieran MURPHY (1976)
Taylor DOWNING (1971)
David Mumby, former Head of Art
anniversary. The evening delighted audiences of all ages, from the youngest enthusiasts to the most seasoned symphony lovers.
More than 50 friends of the Latymer Upper School Boat Club joined us for refreshments at the Latymer Boathouse, while cheering on their favourite team in the 78th Women’s and 169th Men’s races. Whether supporting Oxford or Cambridge, Latymerian rowers
and enthusiasts enjoyed a bird’s eye view of every stroke, surge of energy, and every ounce of determination as the teams raced the 4.2 miles along the River Thames. Our oldest Latymerian in attendance was Bernard HETHERINGTON (1951) at 91 years of age, pictured right with current Head of Boats, Nick Laws.
1624 Legacy Society
Afternoon Tea Reception | 9 May 2024
Always a wonderful event, our legators are at the heart of Latymer’s community, their generosity very much following our own Founder’s pledge made 400 years ago. On Thursday 9 May, we were joined by members of our 1624 Legacy Society for a delicious afternoon tea, a music recital by some of our talented students, and two fantastic speeches on the impact of our bursary programme. The afternoon saw all ages of alumni, along with present and former staff come together to enjoy each other’s company.
The 1624 Society acknowledges and celebrates those who have pledged a gift in their will. Leaving a ‘Latymer Legacy of Learning’ as a gift in your will can
help future generations of young people achieve their dream of a Latymer education. It is straightforward, tax efficient and free of Inheritance Tax, so your gift can reduce the amount of tax your estate would otherwise have to pay. To find out more, please get in touch with Megan Bruns on mhb@latymerfoundation.org
Latymer 400 Gala | 16 May 2024
Our 400th Anniversary Gala saw over 350 guests dressed in ‘a touch of Latymer blue’ and ready to party! We are so grateful for the generosity and support of our community. Thank you to everyone who attended, participated in the auction, donated an auction lot or sent us a vintage Penguin book for the table display. All funds that were raised on the evening will support nine fully funded bursaries for young people joining our school this September.
Cricket Week
Wood Lane Sports Ground
26 May - 9 June 2024
Our Wood Lane playing fields geared up once again for the 2024 cricket season! We welcomed members of all ages and abilities for three consecutive weeks of cricket followed by afternoon tea and a spot of bowls.
Graham Bearman - A Celebration of Life
26 June 2024
A celebration of former teacher Graham Bearman’s life was held at Latymer this June. The gathering was an opportunity for us to come together as a community to remember and celebrate Graham’s extraordinary contributions to our school and lives. With over 190 Latymerians and current or former staff in attendance, we were honoured to hear from a range of speakers who knew Graham well. Charlie
WIJERATNA (1986) welcomed everyone, while Joshua ROZENBERG (1967), the legendary Robert ORME, Jack LOWENSTEIN (1974) and Lily COLE (2006), shared their tributes online.
In person, Chris Hammond (Former LUS chemistry teacher /assistant head) and Lucy Harding-Wyatt (Former History teacher) reminisced about Graham.
Henley Royal Regatta 2024
Henley on Thames | 3 - 6 July 2024
Latymer Rowing celebrated another year at Henley Royal Regatta in style with both boys’ and girls’ crews securing coveted qualifying spots.
The festivities kicked off with a series of events, from a brunch, kindly hosted at the home of Adam TOOP (1984), our annual Henley Afternoon Tea, organised by Latymerian, Olympian and Henley Chair, Richard PHELPS (1983), to a final celebration after six days rowing with our annual Henley BBQ for alumni and current Latymer rowers.
Now, we can’t claim 400 years of rowing in our anniversary year, but what we can claim is to have witnessed a first VIII of its kind for Latymer in a Row Past, organised by Henley Chair, Richard PHELPS (1984) to celebrate our 400th anniversary!
It was wonderful to see this crew of Latymer rowers which spanned six decades, including Zach YOUELL (2014), Barnaby STROUD-TURP (2012), Tony WILLATS (1962), who was one of the 1st VIII to row for Latymer at Henley in 1962, Gary PAINTER (1976), Henry BLYTHE (1978), Nicholas PETERS (1978), Eden PORTMAN (2012), Amalie COUCH (2015) and one of the current Latymer crew, Marnie GRAHAM MAW (Upper Sixth) as Cox.
The Annual Boat Race | 30 March 2024
Tim Koch/heartheboatsing.com
Raphael WALLFISCH (1971)
Peter WINTER (former Head), Amir RAFATI-FARD (2018) & Adwoa WINTER
Hugh GRANT (1978) & Jamie GRANT (1976)
Anna STACHNIAK (2002) & Amir RAFATI-FARD (2018)
Susan WIJERATNA (Head) Penguin book place settings
Barry WILD (former rowing coach), Andy CIECIERSKI (1983), James ROBERTSON (former rowing coach)
Nicholas PETERS (1978) Henry BLYTHE (1978)
James GRAHAM (1976) President of the 1624 Society
The ‘Row Past’ Crew
A SNAPSHOT of LATYMER
The original fence at the front of School, early 1900s
Dates for the diary2024-2025
Festival of Sport - Alumni Reunion
7 September 2024 | Wood Lane Sports Ground
Join us on Wood Lane’s iconic playing fields as we celebrate sport at Latymer. You don’t need to be a sports star to join in – just bring your enthusiasm and a sense of fun! Tag rugby (Ben Murray Cup), netball, hockey, and football (Tom Pirie Cup) will be on offer, as will cheering from the sidelines with a burger and beer. For early birds; join us from 10am to watch Latymer’s 1st XI fixtures before the Festival of Sport matches kick off at 11.30am.
Chiswick Book Festival
15 September 2024 - 3.30pm
St Michael’s and All Angels Church, Chiswick
Join us to hear historian and Latymerian, Taylor DOWNING (1971) and Latymer parent, Christine Gregg speak about the making and editing of Latymer 400
– a beautifully illustrated book marking 400 years of the Foundation which Edward Latymer established in 1624. Latymer 400 is a collection of entertaining essays written by alumni and staff members, both past and present - you may well encounter the familiar names of former classmates and teachers throughout the book. Historians, journalists, authors, designers and photographers from our community have helped chronicle the ups and downs and the various challenges our Foundation has faced in establishing and running our schools – and of course the colourful characters who have shaped our destiny along the way.
60th Anniversary of the Latymer Boat House | 26 September 2024
Latymer Upper School, Boathouse
It’s 60 years since the Latymer Boathouse opened its doors in March 1964! To mark the anniversary, we’re hosting a special gathering at the boathouse and we would love you to join us. If you were a rowing Captain or part of a crew, we’d love to hear from you to help us reunite as many alumni crews as possible.
Inspiring Minds Campaign Celebration
3 October 2024
Latymer Upper School, Main Hall
Help us to celebrate the incredible success of the Inspiring Minds campaign. Launched in 2014, this ambitious initiative aimed to make
a real difference in the lives of students needing financial assistance to attend Latymer. With the 400th anniversary of the Latymer Foundation upon
us, we’re delighted to announce that we’ve achieved a significant milestone – enough funds to support bursaries for 1 in 5 students at our school!
111th Latymerians’ Dinner
10 October 2024
Latymer Upper School, Main Hall
Latymerians are invited to join their fellow alumni at one of our longestrunning traditions –the 111th Annual Latymerians Dinner. With special guest speaker, David CRESSY
(1963), we look forward to seeing Latymerians of all generations join together for good food and great company - held in the evocative surrounds of the Main Hall.
400th Anniversary Founders’ Day Service
11 October 2024
We are holding this year’s Latymerians Dinner earlier than is usual, to coincide with our 400th anniversary Founders Day service, which takes place the following morning. Founders Day is usually
celebrated at St Paul’s church in Hammersmith, but for our anniversary year a bigger venue is needed to ensure all current pupils and staff can attend. We will therefore be travelling to the City to hold our service at St Paul’s Cathedral. Space is extremely limited, but we would love to see as many Latymerians at the service as we are able to seat. We are, in the first instance, prioritising those alumni who have booked a ticket for the Latymerians Dinner (Thursday 10 October) or who are members of the 1624 Society. When we have ascertained how many tickets have been requested we will be able to inform you as to whether you have been allocated a seat. Thank you so much for your understanding.
CCF Lunch
17 October 2024
The Grove Tavern, Hammersmith Grove
Whilst Latymer’s Combined Cadet Force (CCF) disbanded in 1966, the camaraderie and friendships formed have endured. Around 25 former members are in regular contact, many of whom enjoy meeting twice a year for lunch. A warm invitation is extended to all who fondly recall their days in the CCF to join them at The Grove, where a plaque on the wall proudly proclaims the venue as the Headquarters of The Fledgling Army Run By Tom Stewart.
To register your interest please email wshe@btinternet.com
Calling all Latymerians who graduated in 1974! 6 December 2024
It’s hard to believe a half-century has passed since you walked the
halls of Latymer. To commemorate this incredible milestone, we’re thrilled to host a reunion especially for your graduating class.
The evening will offer an optional nostalgic tour of the school, including the Latymer archive,
to rediscover familiar places while witnessing the school’s evolution. After the tour, we will gather for drinks and dinner at a venue close to school. This will be an opportunity to catch up, reminisce, and celebrate our shared history. It’s the ideal occasion to rekindle old friendships and celebrate your time at Latymer, whether you’ve stayed in touch over the years or are just now reconnecting.
Final Celebration of the 400th Year 12 December 2024
The Final Celebration of the 400th anniversary year serves as a tribute to the rich history, vibrant present, and exciting future of Latymer.
Throughout the year, we’ve hosted a variety of events to commemorate this incredible milestone. Please join us as we conclude this year’s busy calendar and raise a toast to the next 400 years of Latymer’s legacy.
On the Road | February 2025
2025 will find our Alumni team back out on the road visiting various University towns - check out our website for further information when we are back after the summer holidays.
Exclusive Guided Tour of the Imperial War Museum with Taylor Downing 22 March 2025 | Imperial War Museum
TV producer and Latymerian, Taylor DOWNING’s (1971) expertise. After the tour we will continue the conversation over a friendly drink at a nearby pub.
1624 Society Tea | 15 May 2025
Join us for a guided tour of the Imperial War Museum! Gain a unique perspective on the history of warfare and hear fascinating stories brought to life by author, historian, award-winning We look forward to welcoming current and new members of the 1624 Legacy Society for the annual afternoon tea reception in May, 2025. Hosted by Susan
Wijeratna, Head, and James GRAHAM (1976), President of the 1624 Society for what promises to be a wonderful afternoon of entertainment, catching up and great cake - whilst hearing about the impact of the Legacy Society.
Henley Royal Regatta | 1-6 July 2025
Join us for afternoon tea in the Stewards’ Enclosure at Henley Royal Regatta at the beginning of the week, or join us on Saturday 5 July at our informal annual
lunchtime barbecue run by the Boat Club, open to all Latymerians. School rowing blazers are encouraged to be worn. Partners welcome.
“If you are lucky, you get one teacher who changes your life. For me that was Graham Bearman.”
Memories of Graham Bearman
Graham, a Latymer legend, joined our community in 1963 and dedicated 43 years to teaching Latymerians until his retirement in 2006. Throughout his tenure, Graham’s passion for history, politics, rugby and cricket, his unwavering commitment to education, and his genuine care for each student made him one of our most inspiring and influential teachers.
Luke DUNN (2001)
Studying history and politics under Mr. Bearman for A Level in 19992001 was an unequivocally stimulating experience. Looking back, it amazes me that someone could teach for so long, and his lessons still be able to extract and encourage analytical thought and rigorous debate from otherwise apathetic students.
He was truly an inspiration to our generation. Being able to discuss whether the sale of poisons was social hurt or harm, or whether you could prevent force someone not to commit suicide and still be true to Millite liberalism, was a joy I still remember from my A Level years.
Applying Rousseau’s idea of the Legislator to Nick Cave’s Red Right Hand was a stroke of genius characteristic of Mr Bearman. Debating who was morally responsible for the death of Davey Moore by quoting J.S. Mill, all while listening to Bob Dylan. This kind of experience simply cannot be replaced.
Jack LOWENSTEIN (1974)
If you are lucky, you get one teacher who changes your life. For me that was Graham Bearman.
I know I was not alone, but I am glad that one sunny lunchtime in the Hampshire Hog, shortly before he left Latymer, I found time to tell him how much I owed him. Few people could put on unconvincing self-deprecation as well as Graham, but I think that underneath the denial I detected some pleasure.
Our story together really began in 1972. Graham wanted to shake things up. He was already the senior rugby coach and the heir apparent for Head of History, but he wanted to teach a controversial new A Level subject: Politics. To ensure the new course would have longevity, he recruited his new class quietly but purposefully. I don’t know how I made the cut, but I am sure the alumni from that year must be, as a group, some of the most successful Latymer has produced, certainly from the perspective of the 1975 Oxbridge honour boards.
Even compared to my time at Oxford, the sixth form years were among the most intellectually challenging I have known. We argued, we felt like we were in an elite, and we all including Graham, I think, worked incredibly hard.
The world is a richer place because Graham was in it. We who knew him are lucky that he dedicated his intellect and energy to teaching, when he would doubtless have succeeded at almost any career he set his mind on.
Julian FOYNES (Former Staff)
I taught History and Politics under Graham’s departmental headship for 28 years. I soon found that other departments envied us historians for having such a great leader. He combined a healthy cynicism towards authority (in and out of school), with a massive enthusiasm for his subjects, an insightful understanding of colleagues, and a completely unrivalled popularity with pupils, who called him a “legend”. He had a certain maverick quality which meant that he stood out, and sometimes a bit aside, from the potentially drab and regimented background of “school”. But from this individualistic spirit came his vast contribution to Latymer, whether in the classroom, to his department, and on the sports field. He was no fan of administration, yet, outward appearances sometimes to the contrary, he was actually very efficient at it.
He put a vast amount of energy into each day--early arrival on site, demanding middle-school and sixth form teaching, taking Rugby (and playing in his earlier career), and running after school. This he achieved in spite of never having lunch, nor resting over a coffee and a newspaper. His habitual absence from the Dining and Staff Rooms sometimes made him seem elusive. But his witty charm and cheerful enthusiasm were such that when the rest of us did get a chance to talk to him we felt our morale lift.
Graham was an expert on political ideology and modern European history in particular, interests which coincided with my own. He was totally serious about his subjects, and hearing his views about them in their own right (not just for the classroom) was always valuable. But he also had many insights into contemporary life, and so often I found myself thinking “Yes, that’s so true!”
None of Latymer’s current pupils, and few of its current staff, will have met Graham. However, there will be a very great many others who not only vividly recall him, but feel a debt of gratitude towards him.
May the Bearman legend continue.
Memories of Graham Bearman
Stephen PARRY JONES (Former Staff)
I recall vividly my first encounter with Graham when I was interviewed at Latymer in 1979. I had arrived formally suited to find the school empty: it was half term.
After some time with Maurice Isaac, I was then greeted by an athletic figure in a black tracksuit. I felt even more overdressed when a jean-clad Quin Davies passed us in the corridor. Graham’s questions were generally benign, though with an underlying shrewdness and quiet irony, much like his style as Head of Department.
As I left the school, not yet knowing the outcome, I saw the track-suited figure leap into his elegant Lancia convertible and speed off into King Street: Graham always had very smart cars. It was to be the start of a rewarding association from which I learned so much. When I became a head of department myself, I often used to ask ‘How would Graham approach this?’ It usually clarified things. I also found that pupils began to comment on my ties. These were never as stylish as Graham’s, but were perhaps another instance of his subtle influence on me.
John NYE (1974)
The words ‘commitment to education’, ‘genuine care’, and ‘inspiring and influential teachers’ strike a chord very strongly with me, but in a unique way.
I started at Latymer Upper in September 1968. In the 2nd form I was taught History by one of Graham’s colleagues, who it appears was considered a good teacher by others. I did not share that opinion. He managed to completely set me against the subject. In the 3rd form, I was taught by Graham Bearman, and I am afraid the damage had been done before he started to teach me, so I had already resolved to give up History when it came to choosing O Level options. For me, as a mathematician, the choice was straightforward; Geography (taught by Mr Eliot, who was the HoD, a lovely man and an inspirational teacher) and sciences.
I am ashamed to write that I often used to be doing Maths at the back of the class in Graham’s lessons, a sin which as a retired teacher I think was the height of bad manners. However, he knew my enthusiasm for Maths, and rather than punishing me or getting angry, he merely put a comment in one of my end of term History reports to the effect ‘I am pleased his Maths is going so well!’ Such a good-humoured riposte.
His kindness and understanding won me over. Due to his excellent teaching, I came 5th (or was it 4th?) in the year in the end of year History exam. More to the point, although I gave up the subject, he had rekindled in me a fondness and interest in History which remains to this day. When I taught (for a total of 39 years), some of my colleagues understandably reacted very strongly to pupils doing another subject’s work in their lesson. I was always more restrained in my reaction, having the example in my mind of how Graham had treated me, or perhaps more to the point, looked after me.
“...having the example in my mind of how Graham had treated me...
Lily COLE (2006)
If you are wonderfully lucky, you get a teacher who opens up your thinking and changes your life. Graham was one such teacher for me.
Graham — or Mr Bearman as I knew him — would write very funny, witty letters. I was delighted by his letter-writing over the years. Many made me laugh. Many provoked me to question my (political) assumptions. Many revealed his anarchist flair and global perspective. One letter convinced me to apply to university.
I was 16 years old when Graham began teaching mehistory, and later politics. I was stocked full of opinions and ideas about the world. In class, every time I would make an assertive statement, Graham would lift his silver bushy eyebrow, a wry twinkle would enter his eye, and he would prompt, “Yes, but…”. A very pregnant pause would follow, inviting me to fill the space by contradicting myself.
Graham was constantly encouraging us to try and see things from a different perspective: to take a more kaleidoscopic, humble, and therefore more honest view on reality. He offered us the great wisdom of doubt: that life is far more complex than any one person can pretend to understand, embodying the prudent ambiguity of Gertrude Stein’s immortal phrase: “Let me recite what history teaches. History teaches.”
There were many things Graham could have done with that great intellect of his. Fortunately for us, his students, he dedicated his life to teaching. I am very grateful for his influence on me, and will endeavour to always remember to temper my (sometimes strong) convictions with a solid pinch of, “Yes but…”.
“He was truly an INSPIRATION to our generation”
Dr.
Colin DIGGORY
(Former Second Master (1990-91) & Headmaster (1991-2002)
I had the privilege of working with Graham for 12 years (1990 – 2002), during my time as Second Master and then Headmaster at Latymer Upper. Graham was part (a very significant leading part!) of a small but invaluable group of long serving colleagues who have preserved and maintained the unique and enviable ethos and culture at Latymer. Heads come and go as do management teams, leadership initiatives and development plans (with inevitable ‘for the first time in our history’ announcements). But what great schools always need, independent of the sea of change around them, are first class teachers, who profoundly love their subjects; teachers with a passion to pass on far more than knowledge (and incidental exam success), namely a sense of real academic scholarship and discovery. There is no better example than Graham.
I have always had the greatest respect for Graham’s scholarship and exemplary teaching; generations owe him an enormous debt for developing their love of History and then also being given the academic discipline for life-long learning and inquiry.
Schools also need a reassuring sense of continuity, focussing on all that really matters, that is ‘pupils’ and ‘learning’, and I pay tribute to Graham’s life-long commitment to Latymer. Graham would have been the first to dismiss longevity of service as inherently something to be celebrated; what matters are the quality of one’s service and the difference one has made. In Graham, Latymer has had the great fortune to have all (long commitment, exemplary quality and someone who has made an immeasurable difference).
Graham was also a great advocate of schools being true meritocracies, a unique feature of Latymer of which I was most proud; a desire to open the gates of King Street to anyone who could benefit and an ethos of tolerance and excellence without exclusion inside those gates. Graham’s sense of fairness and commitment to equity have played a big part in preserving Latymer’s proud reputation for being open to all regardless of background.
Graham was also a superb sportsman, and when many colleagues were hanging up their boots complaining about aches and pains, Graham would be out there taking major sports all year through, rugby in winter and cricket in summer.
To maintain such a commitment whilst also being the Head of two departments (History and Politics) was truly exemplary and I thank him for that. I also thank Alona, his wife, who was exemplary in ‘allowing’ him to give so much to the School. I recall many a Bank Holiday when they would cut short a school holiday in order to return to Whitton to look after the 1st XI against the OLA.
...or perhaps more to the point, looked after me.”
His weekly newsletters to his sports teams always cheered up my Monday mornings – as did his annual departmental reports (not many Heads can say that about academic papers!). Graham was a superb writer with an enviable ability to see straight through to the main issues and then get his message across in an accessible, often amusing, style.
I increasingly believe that the real purpose of schooling is fundamentally to teach us to think. Graham was both a very great philosophical ‘thinker’ and also a compassionate teacher who taught far more than his subject; he taught his students how to think. He also taught me, far more than he will ever realise, to think about what I was doing in trying to run a school.
Starting from scratch (again) in midlife;
A letter to my younger self
If time machines existed, what lessons would I share with my younger, less-wise self as he nervously sits his A Level exams in 1991? With the wisdom gained between 17-year-old me and 50-year-old me, there are a few things I wish I could prepare myself for. As my daughter sits her GCSEs and my son is not far behind, this seems timely.
Dear James,
I know you’re feeling the pressure of your A Level grades and trying to hide it behind that confident veneer you’ve learnt to protect yourself with. Some good news and bad news...
As you’ll soon discover, it’s much harder to wing it at A Level and your strategy of hoping your brain will dredge up the right stuff on the day despite doing almost no meaningful revision is about to come wildly unstuck. It’ll take 30 years to understand, but you have been nurturing a fear of failure and disappointing others which has prevented you from really trying. This fear will drive you to prove yourself repeatedly, serving you well but also holding you back from potentially rewarding pursuits. Remember, F.A.I.L. – First Attempt in Learning.
You chose your A Levels based on what you thought would be easy or useful and what your mates were doing, not on your interests and strengths. Yes, you were told Physics would be hard but Economics won’t be any easier – you can’t get on with and still don’t, subjects that you can’t see a tangible application for. You’re a visual learner, not a theoretical one.
By the way, you’re a bit on the spectrum with a processing quirk that makes fast recall of facts hard, making you feel stupid in pub quizzes. It’s the framework you struggle with, not your intelligence.
Your A Level results are going to be hard to take and harder to make peace with. You’re going to retake two of them and, despite doing slightly better, still feel like a failure. You’ll begin to double down on defining yourself by your physical characteristics instead.
It’ll seem like everyone else did better, found it easier, and has clear career plans, but that’s mostly untrue. Among your close friends, only one always wanted to be a lawyer and becomes one. Everyone else figures it out as they go, and most still are.
You won’t realise it, but your time at Latymer taught you much more than could be recorded in exams, and you emerged with valuable qualities that’ll set you apart from many others.
Getting involved with the Jantaculum might have been to meet Godolphin girls, but you also developed confidence in uncomfortable situations that most never
dare to face. Your time on stage at school will pave the way for you to step in front of TV cameras on a 1990s game show called Man-O-Man, making all future professional pitches and presentations seem easy in comparison (you still use much of that skill and confidence today and are way more comfortable in front of audiences than practically anyone you’ve met. They covet your onstage charisma and can’t imagine themselves ever being as brave as you!).
You’ll set high expectations for yourself, leading to a career-altering and life-changing burnout in your late 40s. Just before it becomes painfully clear how ill you have become, you will be at your most commercially successful. You will have been running the fastest growing and most profitable team in Europe for your employer and will set a series of sales records.
Everyone around you (including your oldest friends that know you best) will be amazed and say that you were the last person they’d have guessed would burn out.
You’ll all claim there were no signs or signals.
You will be very ill for about nine months in 2019 and be almost totally unable to function as a person, let alone an employee. You’ll get better.
During that period of (overt) illness and recovery, you’ll learn some things that you are now extremely grateful for and wish you’d learnt much earlier.
In 2020, redundancy will trigger an identity crisis as you realise how much you’ve defined yourself by the job that you do and the results you deliver, that for a while, you genuinely won’t know who you are without that fancy title.
This will be the turning point leading to your new career.
You’ll start speaking more openly and more often to more people about how you are really feeling rather than what you think they want and expect the answers to be. You’ll realise that strength and toughness have prevented you from asking for help. You’ll learn that vulnerability is an act of courage. You’re going to be amazed by how many people that you’ve known for years will open up to you in return and the quality of your valuable relationships will dramatically increase.
Your children will learn from your example, and you will at times be dazzled by how much better your kids are at it than you already. The older generation’s reluctance to discuss difficult topics will give way to a new openness – it’s no longer considered ‘dirty laundry’.
Resilience, you’ll learn, is a consequence of choices and habits, not an innate quality. Some of your habits will turn out unsustainable and unhealthy, requiring change. Tying so much of your self-worth to your physical ability will serve you really well in your younger years and you’ll feel pretty much invincible, believing that physical health is far more important than mental health (a term that was barely invented in the 90s anyway).
A problem shared is a problem halved as they apparently say, but the trouble is, you don’t like sharing or even admitting to having problems. You think it’s more virtuous to solve things all by yourself and deliver a ta-dah moment when you’ve solved it. As a result, plenty of things are harder than they ever needed to be.
The real quote is actually from Charles Kettering who ran the innovation department of General Motors in the 1940s. He said: ‘A problem well stated is half solved’ You’ve decided to take a tough chapter of your life and make sure that the priceless lessons learnt are available to others. You’re a professional coach and public speaker now.
You earn less money than many of your mates and certainly less than before your illness, but you’ve finally realised that comparison is the thief of joy and so is perpetually casting your happiness into the future.
You now live far more in the present than at any time in the last 20 years, and you’ve realised that by constantly striving for things you didn’t have, you were too often forgetting to enjoy the riches you already had – health, family, and friends.
A final few words that I hope past James might just listen to:
• Better out than in – try to speak up when things are hard
• Your confident armour will become a cage – try to take it off regularly
• You will never, ever be alone – someone nearby will understand if you let them in
• All success comes at a cost. Try to make sure it’s sustainable and worth it
Best, Older James
The Latymer SOCIAL ARCHIVE
One of the most exciting legacies of Latymer’s 400th anniversary year has been the digitisation of our fascinating school archive! What better way to remember our origins than by making the historic documents, some of which date back to the 1620s, accessible to our alumni community. But this online archive is home to so much more than our remarkable collection of 17th, 18th, and 19th-century ledgers and Minute books - extraordinary though they are.
Latymer’s Social Archive brings our history right up to date, drawing on photos, school magazines, and recollections from Latymerians around the globe. The wry humour of students from across the decades can be appreciated whilst reading the full online collection of the Latymerian magazine - whether the articles were written in the 1890s or 1990s. This dynamic social space will be curated by you, our alumni. Latymerians can upload and share their collection of photos and memorabilia, where classmates can re-connect and recall memories of their time at the School.
You’ll be able to help fellow alumni put names to faces, strike up conversations on the platform, and comment on posts and articles or photos. Of course, if you prefer not to interact then just browsing is fine.
We want this to be a space for you to use in a way in which you feel most comfortable. It’s really easy to join the Latymer Social Archive and to upload your own collections of photos, production programmes – anything Latymer-related. Every Gild ticket tells a story!
Admittance is password-protected and is currently open only to our alumni community.
Simply visit bit.ly/LatymerSocialArchive
After registering, click on the ‘Start Here’ button on the left-hand side panel and follow instructions to get started. You can register on your mobile phone or any other device, but to get the most out of browsing the site we do recommend a tablet, desktop or laptop as the Social Archive is not mobile optimised.
This is an organic and evolving project and we will regularly be adding archival documents from our existing archive, along with new additions from alumni uploads.
We look forward to welcoming you to this exciting new space for all Latymerians!
“I was only able to attend Latymer because I won a “governor’s place” (I think it was called then) and I believe that other bright boys (and girls) ought to be able to receive the same superb education as I did.” 1624 Society member
Learning Performance Community
Latymer’s Oldest Tradition
1624 Society Tea
It was an absolute delight to start the term with our annual 1624 Society tea, hosted by James GRAHAM (1976), President of the Society, for those who have included a legacy to the Latymer Foundation in their will. The 1624 Society is a unique slice of the Latymer community, made up of Latymerians of all ages, staff and parents, both current and former. It is our privilege to be able to celebrate the impact their support
has in person, and honour those who are not able to be present.
We welcomed over 50 members of the Society back to King Street, who were treated to an exclusive recital by some of our current students, before we tucked into a delicious afternoon tea.
James invited our guests to join him in celebrating the meaningful impact of their support, especially in our anniversary year, and shared the stories of some of the students
whose lives they have transformed.
We were then joined by lan Emerson, Latymer’s Deputy Head (Academic), who gave us an insight into the successes the school has enjoyed over the last year, and some of the curriculum changes that will be coming into effect in September.
“I remembered Latymer in my will out of a gratitude for the happy memories and an appreciation for the quality of the education I received in the main School. My time at the school was an excellent foundation for the rest of my life and and I would not want wealth, or lack of it, to be a bar to sending one’s child to a school like Latymer” 1624 Society member
“I included Latymer in my will out of a respect for the School’s history of helping bright but underprivileged students, and happy memories of my time at Latymer” 1624 Society member
“Latymer has shaped me and I can leave knowing that it has become an irremovable part of me. In today’s globalised world, I believe that people no longer identify as much with the country or city where they are from, but more with the community that shaped them. I’m lucky to be able to say that, for me, Latymer is one of those communities.” Latymer bursary student
Edward Latymer’s Legacy
It is inspiring to see so many Latymerians taking part in Latymer’s oldest tradition - leaving a legacy.
400 years ago, Edward Latymer had a vision of an institution which would change the lives of local children through the transformative power of education. To make his dream a reality, he set aside a portion of his estate in his will to provide the clothing and education of “eight poore boyes” from Hammersmith.
The Latymer community has continued this tradition with pride, and since its foundation, the 1624 Society has welcomed over 200 members.
As we celebrate the 400th anniversary of this original gift, we are excited to be working towards the long-term goal of growing the 1624 Society’s membership to 400 legators.
If you would like to find out more, please contact Megan Bruns on mhb@latymerfoundation.org or scan the QR code here to visit our new legacies page www.latymerfoundation.org/legacy-giving
Membership of the 1624 Society is an excellent way to support bursaries at Latymer, but there are other benefits too!
Members can join the audience for school performances and will gain exclusive access to a series of online lectures which are in development. But most importantly, you can gain access to the 1624 community, a place to share your memories of the School and your support of the bursaries programme with peers, former teachers, and friends, both old and new.
fondly Remembered
Andrew BUDDLE (1966)
We are grateful to Andrew’s wife, Norma, for the following tribute. At school, Andy was Vice Captain. He excelled at cricket too, captaining the Latymer team. He also possessed a talent for acting, having played leading roles in school productions, including Dylan Thomas’s “Under Milk Wood”.
While his interests were wide-ranging, his commitment to social justice left an enduring impact, which made a lasting impression on everyone he knew. Including Jan BROOKER (1968) who shares that “Andy made an impact on my life that has lasted more than 50 years, committed as he was to social justice and fairness for all. I spoke at his funeral on the impact he had on me, and others”. Despite Andy and Jan both attending Latymer - due to being in different years, it wasn’t until they met again at Nottingham University that they became great friends.
Andrew was the Chief Executive of the charity, Neighbourly Care Southall, which he transformed into a welcoming, inclusive and pioneering organisation that embraced many other voluntary groups across the borough of Ealing.
He was quoted in an article saying “My big thing is inclusion - bringing people from all backgrounds out of isolation, and getting them to come together. You can see the enormous change that comes about in them, and they give so much back alongside getting so much from it.” Andrew was amused by once winning the title ‘Charity Fundraiser of the Year’ as funding was always a struggle, and the situation deteriorated as austerity hit. But he was always optimistic and looking for new projects and funding streams. Unfortunately, the charity had to close in 2021 but Andy still leaves a legacy that we treasure.
Nicholas Graeme CRUMP (1971)
We are grateful to Raphael WALLFISCH (1971) for the following tribute. Nicholas joined Latymer in the year 1969. After a year’s work experience upon finishing school, he attended Writtle Horticultural College where he qualified in amenity horticulture. He settled in the area around Shaftesbury, Dorset with his wife and two sons. The family remained in that part of the world with Nick gardening for guitarist Julian Bream, a local convent school, and a local private Estate.
Music remained a constant part of Nick’s life as a musician for Dorset Triumph Playford dancing group, who he toured with many European festivals of culture. He also co-founded a Ceilidh band called the Hambledon Hopstep - composing much of their repertoire of tunes
among a lot of other music. His musical legacy is captured in a tune book he collated and published in 2019.
Nick was a very creative person, inventing instruments such as the bog horn, sea horn and bath harp. He used to perform at schools and events, promoting water conservation and against pollution. He also ran workshops in educational and community settings for children making things out of natural materials and even teaching how to bake bread.
When he retired, a new hobby came to the fore - capturing the sounds of nature and recording short history interviews for a newly-formed pioneering community radio station called ‘This is Alfred’.
All those he encountered knew him as a generous and kind man. He’ll be sorely missed by his family and many people in the local community whose lives he brightened.
Walter BÖTTGER
(Former teacher of the Johanneum School, Hamburg)
We are grateful to former Latymer Head, Peter Winter, for the following tribute.
Walter, who died in April, taught English, History and Politics at the Gelehrtenschule des Johanneums for forty years, ending his career as Deputy Head. He was the teacher responsible for the Johanneum Exchange for over thirty years from the early 1970s, and for most of the time his opposite number at Latymer was Bruce Perkins. Together, they welcomed Godolphin and Latymer to the Exchange in 1980.
I first met Walter in 1974 when he accompanied the German Exchange boys to Latymer. I instantly took to him. He was a gentle, warm and friendly man who was clearly devoted to the Exchange and a great admirer of all things Latymer.
The following year I accompanied 16 Latymerians to participate in the Exchange. This was one of my first school trips as a young teacher. We travelled overnight via Harwich on a ferry across the North Sea and down the Elbe to Hamburg, arriving in the early morning. It was an impressive way to discover this fascinating port city, a gateway to the world. It was the first of many happy trips to Hamburg, and we got to know his wife Ingrid, and their three sons, Arne, Gunnar and Sönke, and many of Walter’s colleagues and friends at the Johanneum.
I have particularly fond memories of the Exchange Anniversaries over the years, charting the extraordinary vitality of the most enduring Anglo-German School Exchange, a tribute, of course, to devoted individuals like Walter. A particular highlight for me was to be invited as
Latymer Head to the Johanneum’s 475th Birthday to make a speech in the Rathaus; Walter helped me enormously in preparing my words. In the crypt was an impressive display of the history of the School, with a special feature on Latymer Upper School and Wilkie whose inspiration it was to “reach out the hand of friendship” as a terrible war drew to a close.
We rarely talked about the war, though he did confide in me once that he remembers the terrible events of May 1943 as a three year old, cowering in terror in the basement of his grandparents’ house, the house he inherited and still lived in. On my last visit to Hamburg on the occasion of the 70th Anniversary, Walter and Ingrid took me not only to the ElbPhilharmonie, the magnificent concert hall built in the centre of Hamburg, but also to a recently opened museum in the crypt (all that was left after the bombing apart form the blackened spire) of the Nikolaikirche, which was a poignant record of the folly of war. The spire had been the aiming point for the hundreds of bombers which reduced Hamburg to rubble.
When I left Latymer for MCS in 1979, I continued to maintain a link with Walter by establishing a Hockey Exchange with the Johanneum which lasted for over twenty years. Walter would come to watch all the games and travel over with the German boys when it was their turn to come to Oxford. He had not told me that the School were the West German champions!
We became firm friends and our friendship lasted nearly fifty years. Walter stands in the long line of schoolmasters whose patient devotion to their pupils and their school leave their mark on individuals and on the institutions they serve. He will be remembered.
Peter COTMORE (Former Teacher)
We are grateful to former Latymer Archivist, Malcolm Smith, for the following tribute. Malcolm is thankful to Peter’s wife, Pamela, and fellow former teacher, Chris Hammond, for their invaluable recollections.
Peter Cotmore was educated at Tiffin School in Kingston on Thames, and, after National Service in the R.A.F. as a radar operator in West Germany monitoring Soviet aircraft movements– ‘an enjoyable experience’, (he told The Latymerian magazine on his arrival) Southampton University.
He was appointed at Latymer in 1961. At his interview, he encountered his university contemporary and friend (and later Best Man) Colin Attree competing for the post, but luckily for them -and Latymer- both were appointed. Peter became Head of Biology in 1966, one of the youngest Department Heads ever appointed, and retired as one of the longest serving members of the Staff in 2000.
Peter was very prominent in the development of the Biology Department, enthusiastic in moving from separate A Levels in Zoology and Botany to simply ‘Biology’, setting up Biology as a core subject at O Level alongside Physics and Chemistry- it was his aim that all young people should at least know how their bodies worked- and so increasing its standing that Biology was often the subject with Latymer’s largest number of A Level entries. Under him the Department eventually occupied purpose-built accommodation, including a fine pond, in the new ‘ABC’ building and he later increased the laboratory space allocated there, all a far cry from the two rooms it used in E block when he was appointed.
As a longstanding Sixth Form Tutor, Peter inspired many pupils to embark on scientific and medical careers. Some became very eminent, for example Richard FRACKOWIAK (1968), Professor of Cognitive Neurology at London University, John SMITH (1967), Consultant Surgeon at St Thomas’ Hospital, Jim SMITH (1973) F.R.S. Head of the
Laboratory of Developmental Biology at the National Institute of Medical Research, Dr Hilary JONES (1971), the ‘Television Doctor’ -and, though not in the end a Doctor or Scientist, Mel SMITH (1971)
He became Head of Science in 1992 and oversaw Combined Science alongside the separate sciences at GCSE. He arranged and led many biological field trips and often personally managed the collection and preparation of specimens for practical papers, a task which he recalled provided many interesting challenges. He served on the School’s public exams team under no fewer than six Examinations Officers. He and Malcolm Stansbie shared responsibility for managing A Levels for a good while, and Peter continued to invigilate for some years after his ‘retirement’, particularly working with candidates sitting exams using computers.
Peter served actively on the Common Room Committee and is affectionately remembered for the meticulous craftsmanship of his teaching, and kind support of both pupils -constantly giving them the benefit of the doubt- and colleagues at difficult times.
He and fellow Biologist Tony Parkin set up the School’s first video unit, recording inter alia plays and Jantacula. This was perhaps born of a personal interest in photography. He much enjoyed photographing wild-flowers in many countries and orchids in the Chilterns. His funeral was held in that area, which he had loved, and had his love of nature as its theme.
Peter and Pamela married in 1962 and were among the last recipients of a diamond anniversary card from Queen Elizabeth. Their family grew with two daughters, Sarah and Louise, and subsequently sons in law and two granddaughters. They were active members of St Giles’ Church in Ickenham, where Peter’s ashes will be buried in the churchyard, and he served as a member of the Parochial Church Council, as a Sidesman and as a Deputy Churchwarden.
Retirement did not find Peter idling. His beloved garden kept him busy producing not only flowers and vegetables but also trees, and mostly from seed. He also had an allotment and lovingly tended the flowerbeds and shrubs at Abbeyfield House.
But then came the symptoms and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease, which increasingly limited his life. Pamela led his care with enormous devotion, assisted by family, friends and neighbours and professional and day care help, until his worsening condition led him into a care home late in 2023. Though well looked after there, his health nonetheless deteriorated, and he died on January 17th 2024, aged 86.
Mark ELLIOTT (1974)
We are grateful to Alan JACKSON (1973), Hugh SLOANE (1974), and Simon HOLMES (1974) for the following tribute.
Mark Elliott had been living in France for some 25 years, in a wonderful but remote part of the Aveyron. He was the middle son of the Elliott family and was, up until aged 15, a pupil at St Pauls. He then decided to transfer to Latymer, in the footsteps of his brother, Bruce ELLIOTT (1971).
He was a talented fly-half with the ability to kick with either foot, and was a leading light in a very strong Latymer rugby year.
Mark was an interesting character, holding strong, widely diverging views, and his love of fine wines and cuisine was legendary.
Two examples which illustrate his extraordinary and unique character are firstly, not many people gain a Scholarship into Oxford and graduate with a Third and, secondly, few people will have attended anti-capitalist and anarchist marches in London whilst enjoying the bourgeois pleasures of East Sheen Tennis Club and elegant wines. He was immensely popular but sometimes diffident and was proud of his lack of espirit de corps. He
most certainly did not suffer fools gladly.
He often mentioned how much he enjoyed life at Latymer and recalled with pleasure a holiday he made to France with the late Graham Bearman and his wife, Alona, and Hugh SLOANE (1974), travelling in the back of the blue SWB Landrover. Graham was Mark’s history and politics teacher and rugby coach. This is certainly not something that could happen today (!) but it was an experience which lasted a lifetime. He also undertook an unusual and intrepid road trip (in an improbably small camper van) through Cold-War Era Russia with Steve FAKTOR (1974) prior to attending university
Elements of his life were particularly sad but he never dwelled on his misfortune. He was a private man but was also immensely kind and thoughtful. He was one of those rare people that whenever you met him or talked to him time seemed to melt away. I will certainly miss his realistic, if pessimistic, view of the world, something which he viewed in a rather different way than most. It was a pleasure to have known him.
Peter BUCK (1972)
We are grateful to Ken EDWARDS (1971) and Bob ESSEX (1972) for the following tribute.
Pete died on 23rd November 2023 after a short illness, aged 69. He spent his whole life in West Drayton, becoming an accountant after leaving with A levels, starting in finance at Rank Xerox.
At school he was a multi-talented sportsman in football, cross country, table and lawn tennis. Ealing Lawn
Tennis Club was his enduring passion for many decades where he was Treasurer. Proudly obsessed with bettering his England tennis ranking as he matured through the age groups, winning many trophies on the way.
The Salvation Army paid tribute at his cremation as he was a dedicated volunteer, annually spending the Christmas period helping those less fortunate. Many friends from Hayes Wanderers FC, Ealing Tennis and Salvation Army miss this lovely gentleman greatly.
Clive WILSON (1963)
We are grateful to Clive’s wife, Carolyn, for the following tribute. Clive died on 31st May aged 79. His health had been deteriorating for some months. For the Wilsons, Lloyds Bank had been and became for Clive a lifelong career, including a spell instructing at the Bank’s Training Centre and oversight of Business Customer Relations in East Kent.
Clive’s Latymer career had been cut short by one year when his father was offered Managership of the delightful little branch in Lynton, Devon where the Wilson family hosted visiting Latymerians.
Clive’s principal extra-mural activity had been the Rowing Club in the days of Alan Watson’s coaching and he continued to maintain friendships with fellow crew members who shared the torture of serious rowing and with former CCF friends, then a school activity in which he participated enthusiastically. Clive leaves his wife, their sons Peter and David, and four grandchildren.
Alan HAYTER (1945)
We are grateful to Alan’s daughter, Nikki Hayter, for the following tribute. Alan’s association with Latymer commenced in 1934 when he joined the Foundation School, then in the Broadway, before he transferred to the
Upper School in 1938 – where he stayed throughout the war years.
He was very proud of the performance of the school in those difficult years and fiercely opposed any suggestion that the standards were lowered during this time. His particular heroes were Fred Wilkinson for his wise leadership and humanity, and Wilf Sharp who gave him a lifelong love of the English language.
Alan played an active part in school life - he was a patrol leader in the Scouts, the Master of the Pageant in the Gild, Flight Sergeant of the Air Training corps, and rowed in the crew of the School Eight as well as being Vice-Captain.
Upon leaving school, he attended University College London, where he graduated with a BSc and then his PhD in the Ramsay Laboratory of Chemical Engineering. His school rowing experience led Alan to become Captain of UCL rowing club, and then captain of the reformed University of London Boat Club, which went on to later distinction. He was also Chairman of the University Athletics board and Convener of Entertainments.
His career was varied and distinguished. It included an early period working in Tanzania with the Medical Research Council to research cortisone precursors, and then with high-speed centrifuges and fibre optics. Later in his career, he was Chairman of an international contracting group, with companies spread around the world, which meant much time was spent overseas. In retirement he continued Consulting and also his interest in education by becoming a Governor and later the Chair of Governors at a local school. His spirit and achievement were very much a creation of Latymer.
Roger LEWIS (1955)
We are grateful to Roger’s brother Peter LEWIS (1962) for the following tribute.
Roger joined the Royal Veterinary College in Camden Town after seven years at Latymer, his final years spent in the Biology Sixth under the legendary and long serving “Ben” Grahame.
He became Captain of Football, a prefect, a Squash and Tennis player, and a member of the CCF, Air Force branch. Roger became a Chelsea fan.
His best friend Roy COCKEL (1955) was a talented piano player, and, in 1954, he formed a jazz band, recruiting tone deaf Roger as a backing player on guitar. They played most weekends at lively gigs in Harrow and beyond before they split for college.
In 1960, narrowly escaping National Service on graduating MRCVS, Roger returned to live and work as a vet in rural South Wales. As a four-year-old, Roger had been evacuated to Carmarthen during the war, our parents having cleverly chosen to live on Jersey, the only part of Britain invaded by the Nazis! Roger formed a strong attachment to the countryside of Wales, wet, green, and tranquil.
Roger loved animals and worked as a vet in large animal practices, also seeing cats, dogs, and mice as they presented. He always kept pets at home, often winsome individuals which he had saved from being put down.
He had a long happy life and died at home in January 2024 aged 87, leaving his wife, two daughters and six grandchildren, no vets but one surgeon!
Colin Oliver GRUNDY (Former Teacher)
We are grateful to Colin’s son, Julian for the following tribute.
Colin was educated at Harrow Grammar School and it was his ability in chemistry, physics and mathematics that earned him an apprenticeship at the DeHavilland Aircraft Company working on fuels for the world’s first jet airliner, the Comet. Tragically, three Comets crashed and after five years with the company, the Comet was grounded and Colin was made redundant.
In 1956 he attended a drinks evening where he met George Terry from Latymer Upper School who encouraged him to apply for a position with the school. He got the job and immediately found his passion for teaching. He taught Physics and was a brilliant teacher, he was clever, he was entertaining and he taught with great vitality. He attended night school for seven years to achieve his BSc degree in Physics and Mathematics (Pure and Applied) from Birkbeck College, UOL. He taught under Arthur Abbott, who wrote the renowned, by those of a certain age, ‘O Level Physics’ book, including some photographs by Colin. He made lifelong friends with fellow teachers Mike Bond, John Underwood, George Terry, Tony Hull, Laurie Elliott and Len Woods. He loved sport too and was instrumental in setting up second form Cricket, Rugby and Tennis teams and a list of fixtures for the school. Another of his passions was photography and as well as photographs for Arthur’s book he regularly took photographs of school plays, sporting activities and even portrait photographs of fellow teachers. He loved Latymer and often recalled the great times he had there.
After 13 years at Latymer he left at the end of 1969 to take up the position of Head of Physics at St George’s College, Weybridge where he taught for 16 years until shortly before his retirement in 1988.
With his wife, Barbara, he set off around the world on a year long adventure. They loved to travel and on all their adventures Colin wrote a detailed holiday journal and took lots of photographs while Barbara enjoyed being behind a video camera giving a narrative of their adventures.
Colin had a very warm and friendly demeanor – he would talk to strangers out on a walk, in the shops, even getting the life story from someone on the platform waiting for a tube train.
It was great to see some Latymer alumni at his wake including Jonathan WOOLFE (1973) who found, amongst some items put out that Colin had kept, a letter from 1969 from his father to Colin thanking him for all the help and encouragement he had given to his son. Jonathan now has the letter. Also present were Bernard BRIAULT (1950) and John BRIAULT (1962).
Frederick ‘Freddie’ FROST (1950)
We are grateful to Freddie’s wife, Lucy for the following tribute.
Freddie was born in Hounslow in 1933, and died in October 2023, aged 90. As a young boy growing up during the war, he used to get into occasional typical schoolboy ‘scrapes’, enjoying
scouring bomb sites for spent shells. One time he took one home on the bus, which later was found to be live. Freddie retained vivid memories of an incident during the evening of September 8th 1944. A tremendous explosion took place just to the west of their location. After the explosion, only then was the rocket heard coming down, as it had been supersonic. The truth was admitted on the BBC a few days later. It was the first German long-range supersonic missile to reach the United Kingdom, the V2 rocket.
Freddie was happy at Latymer, but was allowed to leave aged 17 to join the RAF. Always hoping to become a pilot, he spent 4 years at RAF Shallufah, Egypt, during which he acquired his Private Pilot’s License aged 17, before he could drive(!). When the time came for selection, the Korean war had left many pilots looking for jobs and new pilots were not being trained. Freddie had the opportunity to try Air Traffic Control, found he was happy there, and began a career that never looked back.
Everything Freddie did was aviation orientated. It’s very usual nowadays for someone to have a whole career with one employer, but Freddie loved his job. He often said how happy he felt when coming home from a shift, past all the commuters going in the opposite direction. His joy at his job clearly relayed itself to a young neighbour who was heard to say “When I grow up I want to have a job like Mr Frost, because he doesn’t have to go to work”. Clearly, shift work has its benefits!
Flying became Freddie’s life. He was never happier than when above the clouds, loving the sense of freedom this gave him. Freddie had many work postings, but the majority of his career was spent at LATCCthe London Air Traffic Control Centre, where he rose to ATCO 1, meaning he had overall charge of a shift of around 80-100 controllers. Freddie travelled widely with work - visiting airports all over the world to familiarise himself with the situation and the challenges local controllers would face. Rome, Morocco, Lebanon, Egypt, Singapore, Washington and Houston, to name but a few.
His retirement job at ATC Lasham gave Freddie an interest until not so long ago, achieving an entry in the Guinness Book of Records as the oldest working Controller in the world, at 83yrs 18days, in February 2016. During holiday times, we travelled widely together. With family in Australia and Texas, these became regular venues, but we visited many other countries including Galápagos, Cuba, Ecuador, Thailand, Borneo, Singapore and 11 trips to the Maldives, where the amazing underwater life became a fascination.
Freddie’s love of our dogs was legendary. We had so much fun with our Schipperkes, and this year our current one became a carer as Freddie’s health deteriorated. They meant the world to each other. Freddie died in hospital on October 29th 2023, and is very much missed by us all - his son Nick, daughter Joanne, and myself.
Jo PUGH (1999)
We are grateful to Christine and John Pugh for the following tribute.
Our son Dr. Jo Pugh died on the 22nd February 2023 after lengthy treatment for bowel cancer.
He is so very much loved and missed by his family, his wife, friends and colleagues.
As a tribute, a tree and a plaque have been dedicated to Jo in the grounds of the National Archives in Kew where he worked.
“Even Dragons have their endings.”
Peter CROUCHER (1961)
We are grateful to Peter’s wife, Tricia, for the following tribute. Peter was born in Ealing in 1941 and attended Latymer between 1954 and 1961. He went on to read Maths at Jesus College, Cambridge where rowing became a passion and interest. He then spent a year on VSO in Brunei teaching maths, after which he went on to train and qualify as an actuary.
Working for Sun Alliance he held various UK and Overseas management positions as director of Sun Alliance Overseas and later managing director of Sun Alliance Management Services.
On retirement in 2000, he combined interest in overseas travel and long walking holidays with friends with various non-executive positions in financial services and the public sector. He also found time to complete a History degree in his 70s at the University of Chichester.
He died on 7th July 2023 after a long illness leaving a widow, Tricia, three children and nine grandchildren. He always found time, no matter how busy, for his family who were central to his life. He was much loved and will always be deeply missed by the whole family.
Roger SIMMONS (1962)
We are grateful to Roger’s wife, Eve, for the following tribute.
Sadly, Roger died on Wednesday, 17th April 2024 after suffering a sudden and unexpected brain hemorrhage. He was just three weeks short of his 80th birthday.
Roger joined Latymer in 1958 having been a pupil at The Mercers’ School, which closed in that year. He immediately became entangled in Latymer life being a strong swimmer, an enthusiastic member of the Gild’s technical team, The Pageant, and of the School’s Printing Society. Roger was seriously devoted to The Scout movement.
He headed for The Law, becoming articled to Arbeid & Co where he qualified as a Solicitor. His later career took him to Measures Franks & Co, after which he set up his own practice, working entirely on his own. Finally he became a Consultant to Graff & Redfern & Co.
Alongside his work as a solicitor, he also sat for many years as a Deputy District Judge around the North London Circuit. It was a job he enjoyed very much and which he continued until he retired. Roger is survived by his wife and their children Tim and Helen who are both Medical Doctors, a grandchild, and by his younger brother Martin SIMMONS (1965).
Malcolm HANNEY (1971)
We are grateful to Brian LEWIS (1971) for the following tribute.
I recall an incident from his schooling at Latymer when Malcolm returned to class following what appeared to have been a somewhat more liquid lunch than his classmates. This impacted the classroom discourse, much of which was uttered in private, but with hilarious impact. I also recall Hanney & Hollis carefully monitoring gee-gee form leading to, by their reports, some pecuniary success. Malcolm heading into International Banking, Financial Services, and creating the budget for Bath City Council all seems to have been preordained.
After leaving Latymer, Malcolm read Economics and Accountancy at the University of Bristol. Malcolm and Jane married in 1977 and left for Hong Kong, where he pursued his career in international banking as an Executive Director with HSBC’s merchant bank for seven years. He left for Chicago in 1986 to join CRT (which became the world’s largest options trading firm) as a partner. In 1993 he left when the firm was sold to Nationsbank and, by his own declaration, he wanted a) to spend more
time with his kids b) not burn out and die young and c) do something different.
Malcolm returned to the UK in 1994. Since then he did a range of things - 17 years as a Councillor on Bath & NE Somerset, 11 years as Chair of NHS Bath & NE Somerset (finishing in March 2012), total of 17 years as Chair or Vice Chair of local schools, 15 years as a Director of Theatre Royal Bath, 7 years as Treasurer of Care Network, 6 years as Chairman or Vice Chairman of SW Regional Assembly before abolished, and a few more things beside. This is but a brief extract.
In 2010, Malcolm was awarded an OBE for his services to the community in the Southwest of England. He was appointed an Honorary Alderman of Bath & Northeast Somerset Council in 2015. Malcolm was also a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA) and of the Royal Asiatic Society (FRAS).
Malcolm moved to Malaysia in 2012. He decided to study for a postgraduate degree at the University of Malaya and was awarded an MA (with distinction) in SE Asian Studies in 2014. During his studies, Malcolm undertook an internship in 2014 (at the age of 61) with the Myanmar Institute of Strategic and International Studies (MISIS) in Yangon. After obtaining his master’s degree in 2014, he continued working with MISIS becoming a Senior Visiting Research Fellow on a pro-bono basis.
From 2013, Malcolm lived in Penang regularly returning each year to the UK to see family and friends. In Penang he made many good friends and enjoyed playing tennis, golf, and racket ball, a regular Quiz Night on Mondays at the local Irish pub, and the excellent food, scenery, and good weather for which Penang and Malaysia are known. He also travelled extensively in Southeast Asia and beyond.
In April 2021, Malcolm was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer. He underwent treatment and initially responded well. In June 2022 he was well enough to return to England for 2 weeks and visited family and friends. Unfortunately, on his return to Penang there was a setback which, despite rallying several times, he did not manage to overcome, and he sadly died.
Roger FRANKLAND (1961)
Simon HENBREY (1977)
Gregory HUNTER (1976)
Dedwydd JONES (1951)
Martin KNIGHT (Former Staff)
Rod LUMER (1947)
Ros NANAYAKKARA (Former Maths Teacher 2008-2015)
Jay PATEL (2001)
Denis PIGGOTT (1942)
Trevor SMITH (1970)
Mike SPENCE (1948)
Edward STEAD (Former English Teacher 1962-1968)
Ludo STIRLING (2018)
Ryszard SZYDLO (1978)
Frank Albert VENABLES (1946)
Derek WARREN (1965)
Norman WILSON (1949)
The Foundation Office Team
Amanda Scott
Executive Director, Latymer Foundation ams@latymerfoundation.org
Megan Bruns Director of Development mhb@latymerfoundation.org
Johanna Ingram Events Manager jci@latymerfoundation.org
Lisa Von Gehren Events Officer lkv@latymerfoundation.org
Ruta Kurtinaityte
EA to the Executive Director and Director of Development rlk@latymerfoundation.org
Moonlie Fong-Whittaker Database and Finance Manager mlf@latymerfoundation.org
Laiba Naveed Development Assistant lln@latymerfoundation.org
Verity Mynors Fundraising Assistant vem@latymerfoundation.org Latymer Foundation Office
Latymer Upper School 237 King Street, Hammersmith W6 9LR latymerians@latymerfoundation.org www.latymerfoundation.org 020 3004 0466
Disclaimer: All views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in our feature pages belong solely to the interviewee and/or author, and do not necessarily reflect that of Latymer.
The Latymerian Council (UK)
1971 John Davidson
1973 Steve Faktor
1976 Paul Taylor
1976 James Graham
1979 Mike Cooper
1990 Harmeet Ahuja
1991 Rajesh Goyal
1992 Laurence Hopkins - Chair
1994 Kunwar Ahuja
2000 Alan Sendorek
2008 Suzanna du Plessis (née Rennie) - Deputy Chair
2014 Connie Campbell
2016 Charlotte Collingwood
The Asian Latymerian Council
1966 Victor Apps
1990 Mark Syn
1998 Raymond Shuai - Chair
2009 Archie Preston
The Australasian Latymer Council
1955 Clive Trotman
1970 John King
1976 Hank Kingman
1978 John Fisher
1994 Eddie Gapper
1995 Thomas Correia
2004 Aleco Lazaridis
The Canadian Friends of Latymer - Board of Directors
