OAK The Winter 2024
Keeping our alumni informed, around the world.
Welcome
from the Headmaster
It’s an annual tradition, not shared by everyone, that a walk down our main corridor on our Sixth Form Open Evening leaves me lighter of wallet. This is occasioned by our Tycoon Enterprise teams, always eager salespeople of brilliant products who, once again, earned a place in the national final, as well as persuading me and many others to part with actual money. In fact, we sometimes have visitors who come only for the Tycoon stalls, such is their reputation. I believe that this encapsulates what schools and education should be about –working together, overcoming challenges, communicating effectively, and making a difference with a touch of joy. We have seen this in so many ways this term: though we celebrated our strongest-ever public examination results this summer (with 50% of grades at A-level A*/A or equivalent), we have been more delighted to witness the acts of service, of adventure, of creativity and inspiration captured in this edition of The OAK. Many of these have been facilitated by the generosity of our alumni, whether that is through their time and expertise or by contributing to bursaries for those in our community, with our first fully-inclusive Sixth Form recipients now one term into their AKS experience.
In reflecting on the memories of a super term, I must extend a warm invitation to all of you to visit our school, to attend one of the many events, or just take the time to reminisce. The story continues, and we would be delighted for you to continue to be part of its telling.
In this issue
From our Director of Development Foundation
Patrons’ Lunch
Arnold School Focus Careers Spotlight
King Edward VII School Focus
Queen Mary School Focus
KEQMS Focus
Tycoons Enterprise
AKS Memories and Community Events
David Harrow, Headmaster
AKS Lytham, Clifton Drive South, Lytham St Annes FY8 1DT 01253 784100 I www.akslytham.com
Lest We Forget
From our
Director of Marketing, Development and Engagement
Reflecting on the past year, I am both humbled and inspired by the generosity, dedication and shared sense of purpose that define the AKS community. Together, we have celebrated milestones, honoured traditions and created opportunities that transform young lives.
At AKS, our commitment to honouring those who came before us remains steadfast. This year’s Remembrance Service brought together students, staff and guests to reflect on the sacrifices made by generations past. With poignant readings, music from the Chamber Choir and wreaths laid by representatives of our school and alumni groups, the ceremony was a moving tribute to those who gave their lives in service.
Alumni Supporting AKS Students with Career Education
Our alumni continue to inspire the next generation. This year, sixth formers have gained insights from visits by accomplished alumni such as Ian Barclay, Simon Boynton, Ian Tottman and Andrew Mackenzie-Betty. Their stories of resilience, passion and success have helped broaden our students’ horizons and enriched their educational journey. Notable experiences included a behind-the-scenes visit to BBC Breakfast, arranged by alumnus Richard Frediani. This opportunity gave A-Level Sociology students a first hand look at media production, connecting their classroom learning to the real world.
Alumni
Tours and Visits
We have had the pleasure of hosting numerous alumni visits and tours at AKS, including the return of Old Arnoldian Peter Holt, who currently resides in the USA. His visit included both AKS and the Armfield Academy, the site of the former Arnold School.
We warmly invite alumni for a heritage tour at AKS which includes a tour of the school as it is today as well as viewing some of the AKS archives, which feature treasured memorabilia from all our heritage schools. These visits are a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with the past while celebrating the present and future of AKS.
Milestones in Philanthropy
This year, the AKS Lytham Foundation achieved remarkable success. During Donation Week 2024, we raised over £30,081 through the combined efforts of alumni, students, parents and staff. This was further amplified by a major gift of £50,000 to the Change Their World Bursary Appeal, enabling the introduction of our first fully-funded transformational bursaries into Sixth Form this September.
Looking Ahead
As we look to the future, our focus remains on expanding the reach of our transformational bursaries for talented young people who do not have the financial means and deepening our engagement with the alumni network. By coming together, we can continue to honour our legacy while building a brighter future for AKS students.
Thank you to everyone who has supported our efforts this year. Your contributions are truly making a difference and I look forward to continuing this journey with you.
Warm regards,
Sarah Walton Director of Development
01253 376040
sarah.walton@akslytham.com
AKS Foundation Hosts Second Patrons’ Lunch, Celebrates Key Milestones and Looks Ahead to Future Success
On Friday 8th November, AKS welcomed guests to the second annual Foundation Patrons’ Lunch, held in the OAKS Hall at the school. The event provided a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the significant progress made over the past 12 months, while expressing heartfelt gratitude to those who have supported the Foundation’s ongoing work.
This year’s lunch was a celebration of remarkable achievements, notably the Foundation’s ability to provide fully-funded transformational bursaries for students entering AKS Sixth Form this September. This milestone marks a key moment in the Foundation’s commitment to ensure that exceptional students, regardless of their financial background, have access to the life-changing opportunities that AKS offers.
“We are incredibly proud of the strides we’ve made in the past year,” said Chris Dickson, Chair of the AKS Lytham Foundation. “The launch of the fully-funded bursary programme is a pivotal step in our mission to broaden access to AKS and to offer transformative educational experiences to students who might otherwise have been unable to join us. This lunch was an important opportunity to celebrate our supporters, thank them for their generosity and highlight the tangible impact their contributions are having.”
Recognition was also given to our first major donors, BookCheck Ltd on behalf of Old Lidunian, Mr Anthony Pilkington and the Old Arnoldian Association. These major donors now feature on the Major Donor Wall which has been newly installed in the entrance to the Senior School.
During the lunch, guests enjoyed performances from the AKS Prep School and Senior School Chamber Choirs and also a short performance from the Senior School student leads from the forthcoming AKS Musical Sweeney Todd
Guests were also given an update on the important role alumni have played in enhancing AKS’s careers programme. The Foundation has been fortunate
to benefit from the involvement of numerous former students, whose expertise, mentorship and professional insight have helped to broaden the horizons of current pupils in Senior School and Sixth Form and offer them a more comprehensive view of potential career paths.
Looking ahead, the Foundation is excited about further expanding its impact, with future plans to increase the number of transformational bursaries available and to deepen its connections with the broader AKS alumni network.
The Foundation Patrons’ Lunch not only allowed the school to reflect on these achievements, but it also offered a chance to outline the exciting prospects on the horizon for both the school and its students.
Alumni Spotlight: Peter Holt (Arnold
School, 1952-1963)
In September, we had the pleasure of welcoming Peter Holt and his wife, Anne, to AKS during their visit from the USA.
The couple enjoyed a nostalgic tour of Armfield Academy in Blackpool, the site of the former Arnold School. They were warmly greeted by Mr Mark Kilmurray, the Headteacher, who guided them through the new purpose-built facility that opened in 2018. Notably, elements of Arnold School still endure, including the stage in the school hall and the Westover building, where Peter boarded as a child.
Following their visit to Armfield Academy, Peter and Anne toured AKS, where they felt a strong connection to the spirit of Arnold School. The Arnold archives, proudly displayed throughout the school, along with the enduring values and ethos of AKS, reflect a rich legacy that continues to thrive.
Peter and Anne said: “Our visit to Armfield Academy and AKS was so very rewarding. Quite simply, fantastic. What memories it brought back! Beyond that we were particularly impressed with the pride, the care, and the concern for the students shown by EVERYONE we met in both institutions”.
Peter Holt’s journey from the picturesque Peak District to a dynamic global career is testament to the profound experiences that shape our lives. Born into a family with roots in Derbyshire, Peter began his educational journey at Arnold Junior School, boarding at just seven years old. After his family moved to Poulton in 1959, he transitioned to day school and embraced his identity as a devoted red rose fan - a proud nod to his Lancashire heritage.
Upon graduating in 1963, Peter briefly pursued a career in medicine at St Mary’s Hospital but soon redirected his ambitions. In late 1965, he joined NCR as a programmer in London, marking the beginning of a dynamic 30-year career that would take him around the globe.
In 1969, Peter married, and just a couple of years later, he received an opportunity that would lead him to the Philippines. There, he managed the Social Security System for NCR, a role that not only shaped his professional life but also welcomed the birth of three children during their four-year stay.
After this adventure, the Holt family moved to NCR headquarters in Dayton, Ohio, for two years before relocating to Brazil to manage the Systems Services department. Following this assignment, they returned to Dayton once more, where Peter continued to excel in various roles within the International Division through the mid-1990s.
In 1996, Peter made a significant career shift, leaving NCR to pursue his passion for craftsmanship by establishing his own custom woodwork business. This entrepreneurial venture flourished in Chattanooga, Tennessee, where Peter and his family have happily settled since the late 1990s. They now enjoy being close to their two daughters and their families, while their son has returned to England, creating opportunities for frequent family visits and reconnections with his roots.
Peter Holt’s story is one of professional achievement, family, and community. His journey reminds us of the lasting impact of our educational foundations and the unique paths we carve as we navigate life’s adventures.
A S Arnold School Focus
Westover Building, Lytham Road, South Shore which still stands on the site of Armfield Academy today.
Arnold Junior Boarding House, 1962
Peter’s visit to Armfield Academy in September. Meeting Mr Mark Kilmurray, Headteacher.
Careers Spotlight
AKS A-Level Sociology Students Get Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Access at BBC Breakfast
On 9th October, AKS Lytham’s Upper Sixth A-Level Sociology students had a unique opportunity to visit Media City in Salford Quays, where they were treated to a live broadcast of the BBC Breakfast show.
The visit was made possible by renowned alumnus Richard Frediani, Editor of BBC Breakfast and BBC News at One, who generously facilitated the experience for the students.
Richard Frediani, who attended King Edward VII School between 1974 and 1984, has had an illustrious career in journalism spanning three decades. Starting at Red Rose Radio, he has held significant roles at ITV News and ITV Granada, including Programme Editor for ITV News at Ten and News at 6.30. Richard has been recognised with multiple awards, including BAFTA and National Royal Television Society honours, and has played a key role in mentoring new talents in the industry. In 2019, he was appointed Editor of BBC Breakfast, and this year added BBC News at One to his responsibilities.
The visit offered students a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the operations of a major news outlet. A-Level Sociology student Nick shared his experience:
“After navigating through the hustle of busy journalists and reporters, we were escorted into the gallery — the editing suite of BBC Breakfast — where we had the chance to watch the show unfold live. It was fascinating to see the work behind the camera and meeting the presenters, Jon Kay and Sally Nugent, was completely surreal. We even sat in on a scheduling meeting for the following day’s broadcast, which gave us insight into how news stories are selected and prioritised. This experience really brought our Sociology topic on The Selection and
Presentation of the News to life and gave us a deeper appreciation of traditional news broadcasting in today’s digital age.”
Following the live broadcast, the students visited the Trafford Centre to conduct a case study on globalisation, as part of their Culture and Identity topic. The task involved cataloguing the diverse range of food outlets and examining the origins of the companies. The students discovered that the Trafford Centre’s 30 million annual visitors are treated to an array of global cuisines, reflecting the UK’s increasing taste for international flavours. Interestingly, several restaurants they assumed were global brands, such as Barburrito and Tampopo, were in fact British-born, originating from Manchester.
Nick added, “I too got caught up in the consumerism of the Trafford Centre by buying a jumper from the American brand, Hollister.”
This immersive experience provided students with invaluable real-world context for their studies, highlighting the intersection of media, culture and globalisation.
We are grateful to Richard Frediani for offering such an inspiring opportunity to the next generation of sociologists!
If you would like to share your careers journey since leaving school, please contact us at alumni@akslytham.com
Alumnus Ian Barclay Inspires AKS Lytham Sixth Formers with Insights on Career, Passion and Perseverance
In early November, King Edward VII School alumnus Ian Barclay, an accomplished business leader and sports enthusiast, recently returned to AKS Lytham to lead an enrichment session for our Sixth Form students, offering them a window into his journey from school days to his accomplished career in insurance and business.
Edward VII School Focus
Ian, whose career path spans from IT programming to senior roles with global insurance giants, shared anecdotes and advice.
Reflecting on his time at King Edward School, Ian shared stories of his early years playing rugby and performing in the school orchestra, emphasising how his passion for sports continued to shape his life. From his time with Fylde Rugby Club to completing half-Ironman triathlons, Ian’s commitment to athletics has been a driving force, teaching him resilience and discipline, which have underpinned his career achievements.
In his business career, Ian began as an IT programmer at Guardian Royal Exchange, eventually joining AXA, the world’s largest insurance company. Ian is currently the Chief Executive Officer at Lycett’s, a prominent name in the insurance industry.
He attributes much of his success to what he describes as his “passion-led decisions” — moments when he allowed his enthusiasm for sport and new challenges to guide him. Early on, he even took a year out to pursue rugby, a decision that he says opened doors he never anticipated and instilled invaluable life lessons. Ian encouraged students to “follow your dreams” and to be guided by their passions in whatever field they pursue.
Ian’s advice was both practical and profound. Key themes included the importance of creating opportunities— ”finding a way to get in the room” and “keeping your eyes and ears open.” He urged students to seek challenging environments that promote growth, advocating for a mindset where “the more challenging the environment, the steeper the learning.”
He also encouraged students to “push the boundaries,” reminding them that their generation, equipped with
insights into data, technology and artificial intelligence, brings fresh perspectives to business. In Ian’s experience, today’s businesses are more open to new ideas than ever before, emphasising that, unlike previous generations, the cost of failure is lower and the need for innovation is high.
Ian touched on the power of smart work and the importance of asking for help, saying, “Working smartly is a massive differentiator.” He observed that too often people hesitate to seek assistance, even though “99% of people want to help.” His message to students was clear: don’t be afraid to reach out, and remember that true progress often requires collaboration.
During the session, Ian also highlighted his belief that success in leadership comes down to two metrics: results and team development. He praised AKS’s supportive environment, where teachers and staff dedicate themselves to fostering students’ growth.
One of Ian’s more unexpected pieces of advice was that “you don’t have to be perfect.” In the Q&A session with students, he was asked what percentage of decisions CEOs should aim to get right. The answer, he shared, was between 60% and 75%, explaining that if you aim for 100%, you may be taking too few risks.
Ian concluded with a reminder about resilience: life is full of “speed bumps,” and learning to overcome them is key.
His words on finding joy in the journey resonated with many in the room. “Life isn’t about waiting for the winds to change; it’s about learning to adjust your sails,” he shared, quoting a line that has guided him over the years.
As students asked Ian about his own path — his choice to delay university, his decision to travel, and how he measures his success — he emphasised balance across his three pillars: work, family, and sport.
Ian’s visit left a lasting impact on our sixth formers, inspiring them to consider their future paths with confidence and an open mind.
Thank you Ian for inspiring our students!
Faye Marland (Assistant Head, Staff and Student Development) reflects on the value that alumni, like Ian, are bringing to AKS to support students with career education: “OAKS Alumni mentoring is invaluable as it bridges the gap between school and the real world, offering students first hand insights and guidance from those who have already navigated that journey. By coming in to speak and continuing to work together, mentors provide personalised support, open doors to networking and demonstrate the power of giving back, inspiring students to thrive and make impactful connections that shape their future.”
In 1983, I was a student in Upper 2 under the watchful eye of Mrs Lomax. She organised a “design a book cover” competition, and for a budding artist like me, it was an exciting opportunity. I poured my heart into my entry — a cover all about a buzzy bee. Though the details have blurred over the decades, I still remember the joy of winning.
Alumna Emma Louise’s Journey to Becoming an Illustrator Queen Mary School Focus
Fast forward to 2014. I was on maternity leave with my third daughter and reflecting on my lifelong passion for art. After earning a degree in illustration and dabbling in graphic design, I still dreamed of creating my own children’s book. With time on my hands, I finally did it. I sent the manuscript to countless publishers and sought advice from authors like Sally Green, another Queen Mary alumna. However, the saturated market posed a challenge. After facing rejection, I decided to self-publish. Holding my book in my hands and seeing it listed on Amazon was a proud moment, but the journey was far from smooth. It involved countless revisions, crumpled sketches and moments of doubt. Exhausted but satisfied, I put the dream on pause.
Everything changed when I discovered the iPad Pro and Apple Pencil. Suddenly, I could draw anywhere, and corrections became a breeze. This gamechanging technology reignited my passion. During Lockdown, I immersed myself in illustration, finetuning my skills and developing a unique style.
Encouraged by my progress, I launched an Instagram account, Loubydoobie_illustrator, inspired by a nickname I’d had at school. It started slowly, but with every new like and follower, my confidence grew. Illustration became a daily ritual — a way to unwind, express myself and achieve something tangible.
Through Instagram, I connected with talented writers, including children’s author Hannah Peckham. When Hannah invited me to illustrate her book, Climb, I was thrilled—and terrified. Could I do this? Would my art live up to expectations? With nervous excitement, I embraced the challenge, creating a little elephant named Hetty. When Climb was released in 2021, I felt immense pride. Since then, I’ve collaborated with authors worldwide, working on books ranging from alphabet adventures to stories filled with lively animals and characters inspired
by real people. Each project pushes me to learn, adapt and grow as an artist.
Looking back, I wasn’t always confident in my creative abilities, though others might be surprised to hear that.
As the daughter of two artists, I knew I had raw talent but it took time — and the right tools — to nurture it. Now, well into middle age, I’ve found my true calling.
To anyone with a creative spark: it’s never too late to pursue your passion. Whether you’re doodling in a classroom or illustrating for global audiences, every step shapes your journey.
Follow Emma Louise, aka Loubydoobie, on Instagram @Loubydoobie_illustrator for a peek into her vibrant world of children’s book illustration.
An OAK, a Murder Mystery and Just Good Friends
KEQMS alumna and Emmerdale actress Rachael Gill-Davis has been lending her expertise to the local charity Just Good Friends (JGF), a group dedicated to combating loneliness and isolation in the community. Celebrating its 12th year, JGF has undertaken an ambitious project: a Murder Mystery play set for December 18th.
Rachael, who has been passionate about acting since the age of 8, began honing her skills at the Emily Laws School of Acting while attending King Edward and Queen Mary School. Now, she’s giving back to her local community by helping the JGF group bring their theatrical vision to life.
Despite having no acting experience, the members of JGF were eager to stage their first production, but they needed guidance. Rachael stepped in to offer her time, expertise and encouragement.
She provided valuable tips on line memorisation and stage presence, teaching the group how to command the stage with confidence. Over the course of Monday rehearsals, lasting two hours each, the actors and actresses saw a significant boost in their performance quality. Thanks to Rachael’s help, their roles, confidence and comic timing have improved dramatically, leading to a wonderful transformation in the production.
Rehearsals were initially held at The Links Pub in St Anne’s, but during half term, the group had the exciting opportunity to use the professional drama studio at AKS. This marked the first time the group had worked in such a space and with it came both excitement and nervousness, especially when faced with the sight of tiered seating for 50 expectant guests. However, with Rachael’s expert guidance, the group used the time to fine-tune their sets and props, preparing for a memorable performance.
With Rachael’s support, Just Good Friends is set to offer a heartwarming and entertaining start to the festive season.
Staff through the years
Tycoon Enterprise Final
AKS continued their amazing track record in the Tycoon Enterprise competition sponsored by the Peter Jones Foundation by attending the finals day in Canary Wharf. ‘Christmas Crusaders’ was a business formed by 5 students in Year 12 and, with a change in business direction, they focussed on up-cycling condemned scaffolding planks. With a great deal of creativity and innovation the group produced a high-quality range of products that suited the Christmas market.
The first stage of the finals was a marketplace, the students are now well versed in quickly setting up an effective stall with the bonus of a couple of production and reflection videos. Conversing with business leaders, patrons of the foundation and Peter Jones himself they were also quizzed over profit margins, teamwork, organisation and resilience. The AKS group won best business in KS5 (the best sixth form or college prize). This was fully deserved as they had also achieved an astonishing profit of £4250 in just 6 weeks, which was donated to Papyrus, a charity that aims to prevent suicide amongst young people. Well done to Stan, Jasper, Alfie, Daniel and James; that was a fabulous effort and a superb experience.
This has been the fifth time an AKS team has attended a finals day; the competition offers the students a practical and unique opportunity to form and run their own business and face the challenges and successes that may follow.
Graeme McIntyre
AKS memories 2014
Lest We Forget
Armistice Day was commemorated across the school as we fell silent to remember those who died in conflict. We were delighted to welcome guests to participate in our main Remembrance Service in Senior School, where we recognised and paid tribute to all those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Mr Harrow opened the service with a poignant address, which was followed by the reading “Remember” by Year 7 student Emily.
Year 10 student, Hollie, played “The Last Post” before wreaths were laid at the memorials as the names of the fallen were read aloud.
Wreaths were laid by Mr Harrow on behalf of school, followed by Mr Beverley on behalf of the Old Lidunians’,
Mr Hoskisson on behalf of the Old Arnoldians’, Mrs Bickerstaffe on behalf of the Queen Mary School Association, and Year 13 student Sergeant Victoria Knights on behalf of the CCF.
The closing prayer was read by Mr McKeown, then our students, staff and guests listened to the beautifully moving Chamber Choir as they sang “A Clare Rendition” by J Rutter.
The school and assembled guests paid their respects and ensured that “…We shall remember them.”
Upcoming School and Community Events
Old Arnoldians’ vs Old Lidunians’ Boxing Day Match
Thursday 26th December, 3.00pm at Fylde Rugby Club. Sweeney Todd
Thursday 23rd January – Saturday 25th January at Lowther Pavilion. Tickets go on sale now: www.lowtherpavilion.co.uk
OAKS Football Tournament
Sunday 2nd March, AKS Lytham. Details to be announced in January.
Open Evening and Heritage Tour
Wednesday 12th March, 6.00pm, AKS Lytham
To book onto the heritage tour, please email: alumni@akslytham.com
PTA Spring Fair
Sunday 23rd March, 2.00pm, AKS Lytham. Cabaret
Wednesday 2nd April, 7.00pm, AKS Lytham PTA Wine Tasting
Friday 9th May, 7.00pm, AKS Sixth Form Centre Tea Time Concert
Thursday 19th June, 5.00pm, AKS Lytham Longest Day Walk
Friday 20th June. Meet at Lytham Windmill.
5:00am start followed by breakfast at AKS Email alumni@akslytham.co.uk to take part Headmasters Cricket and the PTA Summer Festival
Sunday 22nd June, 1.00pm, AKS Lytham.
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