THE PELICAN ISSUE NO. 30 2018
JOURNAL OF THE OLD BRIGHTONIANS No. 30 2018
Welcome Welcome to the 30th edition of the Pelican, the annual journal of the Old Brightonians. 2017–18 was an outstanding year in which we welcomed over 200 Old Brightonians in June to our alumni community. I wish them the very best for their exciting futures ahead. Our alumni, as always, have been up to remarkable things; from researching micro hydro-power systems in the Philippines for Engineers without Borders, to conquering Mount Kilimanjaro, or being called to the England Rugby preseason training squad, I love to hear about the diverse things Brighton College boys and girls go on to do. I was thrilled to hear that this year, our newest Old Brightonians achieved the best A level results in the country, alongside raising over £150,000 for charity. Outstanding efforts and a huge congratulations is due to you all.
I have had the opportunity to catch up with many Old Brightonians this year, and I always enjoy reconnecting with old friends as well as meeting new ones. The Old Brightonians office has been working determinedly on ways of widening the support which is offered to alumni, one of which is Brighton College Connect. This online networking platform is very much geared towards assisting you in finding lost friends, advancing professionally through OB links, and advertising job opportunities.
As you will read in the following pages, there is something for everyone within the Old Brightonians community. Please do stay in touch with the Old Brightonians, tell us about your news, attend OB events and support your fellow alumni. With all the best wishes to the future success of the College and to Old Brightonians everywhere. Sir John Chilcot (Ha/Sc. 1952–57) Old Brightonians President
Best A Level results in England A huge well done to our newest Old Brightonians who received an incredible 558 A* and A grades this year! These results are better than any school in England achieved last year. What is so much more impressive is that the 2018 Leavers year group put so much energy and enthusiasm into life beyond school, in particular their support for others less fortunate than themselves. This includes having raised over £150,000 for charity. Well done and welcome to the Old Brightonians!
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News from Brighton ‘ W herever you go in life, whatever you do, I hope that none of you ever looks back on a life where you might have helped someone, stood up for someone, or protected someone, but did not.’ Sir Ian McKellen
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Celebrating Inclusivity within our Community Old Brightonians, pupils and staff once again proudly took our anti-bullying message to the streets of Brighton this summer, sailing through the Brighton Community Pride Parade on a colourful and particularly musical float (including the Brighton College Swing Band), with an army of dancers following. This was our second year participating in the parade, which was originally inspired by a visit to school from actor and Stonewall ambassador, Sir Ian McKellen. Having spoken to pupils about the dangers of allowing homophobia and bullying to go untackled, he left us with a message we felt is embedded within the OB community: to be kind, to help and to support those around you.
Ghana As you will remember from your time at school, there is an expectation that our pupils will treat each other with kindness and respect, and this also extends to the world beyond the school. Emphasis is placed on our pupils to learn how to use their skills and energies to benefit others. Pupils still volunteer for Reading Spots and Extra Cover, as many of our Old Brightonians did in their time at school. Reading Spots, co-founded by two Brighton College teachers and six pupils a few years ago, has built and stocked libraries across Ghana, shipping over 25,000 books and benefiting more than 5,000 pupils. Father Robert Easton co-founded Extra Cover after the tsunami in Sri Lanka to restore schools and provide educational materials. Forty-five pupils still volunteer every year over the summer as part of our links with the project.
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Brighton goes Plastic-Free The recent BBC One Blue Planet II Series had such a profound impact on our pupils that they went straight to the Head Master to discuss ways in which the school could work towards becoming free of non-recyclable plastics. Brighton pupils have always been focused on their wider community and led by example. We are proud to say that we are committed to leaving a plastic-free legacy at Brighton. We have started the process by banning the use of unnecessary single-use plastic across our sites. Pupils and staff are now working with Surfers Against Sewage to achieve our official Plastic-Free School status, which includes writing to local MPs to ask for their support, alongside beach cleans and participation in eco-projects across Brighton and Sussex. This year, every pupil was given a reusable Yuhme water bottle made from a special type of sugarcane bioplastic, a renewable resource that is CO2 negative and fully recylable, free from all toxins such as Bisphenol A, Phthalates, and additives. We hope that other organisations across Sussex, and the U.K. will do the same and that together we can improve the current state of plastic pollution.
Peter Miller’s (Ch. 1945–49) Diamond Wedding Celebrations On May 17th 1958, newlyweds Peter and Helga Miller walked down the aisle of Brighton College Chapel and out into the wide world. They were young, handsome and very much in love. On May 17th 2018, precisely sixty years to the day, Peter (Ch. 1945–49) and Helga renewed their vows in the Chapel. Still handsome and still very much in love, they held hands and, before a small group of friends, professed that they would love, cherish and honour each other for as long as they both were alive. The story even made it into the local news!
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Special Services to Education Award for Peter Bellenger Peter Bellenger is a long-standing chemistry teacher, and a stalwart of the Brighton College community. The affection and respect in which he is held was shown by the way the school rallied around him after he was diagnosed with motor neurone disease last year. This year, Peter was nominated for the Times Education Supplement for Special Services to Education, where the judges were looking for “a stand-out member of the independent school community, at any level, who has shown a sustained contribution to the sector”. His colleagues cited Pete not just for his passion for his subject, exciting practicals and clear explanations in the classroom, but also for his commitment outside of his lessons. He coached a group of Year 10 pupils to two successive RSC Chemistry Challenge finals, gave up his time to work with students in
one-to-one tutorials and mentored lessexperienced colleagues. Although Pete has not been well enough to continue classroom teaching, he continues to write mock exams and core practical resources, and gives tuition. The judges said: “Peter Bellenger is deemed to be an inspirational teacher, supported by his results, and his stoic defiance in the face of a debilitating illness is to be admired. Peter’s mentoring of pupils and coaching of colleagues is further evidence of his dedicated engagement to the Brighton College community. It is clear from the application that he has a flair for building and sustaining relationships across the entire school over many years, demonstrating a commitment to the pursuit of excellence within teaching that is highly commendable.”
‘ The world needs more people like him.’ Times Educational Supplement
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OB Start-ups
‘ Perhaps not the most obvious path for the grandchild of a West Country dairy farmer...his entrepreneurial skills have developed since selling Coca-Cola cans and sweets to fellow boarders at Brighton College in his teenage years!’
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Cheese is so good it’s addictive, and hard to imagine living without. Brad Vanstone (Sc/Ab. 2004-09), Deputy Head of School and Head of Abraham House 2008–09, recently founded a plant-based cheese company based in Amsterdam. Using a variety of nut and tofu bases, Plant Based Cheese has created flavours and textures that are perfect additions to your cheese plate, recipes, and even a midnight snack. Perhaps this was not the most obvious path for the grandchild of a West Country dairy farmer, however, his entrepreneurial skills have greatly developed since selling Coca-Cola cans and sweets to fellow boarders at Brighton in his teenage years. Brad is currently selling at markets, into stores, and to a spread of restaurants in Amsterdam. He plans to perfect his production, recipes and broaden his distribution before targeting supermarkets and more permanent production facility in 2019.
PYNK&BLU Since leaving Brighton only last year, Guy Brown (Al. 2012–17) has started his own clothing brand called PYNK&BLU, which is now backed by a global startup incubator called Schoolab based in Paris. The brand started from the initial social stigma that certain colours were inextricable with particular genders, and the brand has now evolved taking on the slogan ‘Be Unique Be PYNK&BLU’ promoting difference within society. Guy says: “It is certain that the forward-thinking nature of Brighton College, promoted by Richard Cairns, inspired me to start up a brand that could play on stereotypes in order to make it ‘cool’ to do something or wear something despite judgement. Whether that be small actions of individualism such as boys wearing pink clothing or larger actions, as shown in our
recent video of an entrepreneur in the roughest suburb of Paris following his vision despite discrimination and a lack of support. We as a brand want to keep advocating individualism, promoting the rareness of ‘being unique’ in a uniform society. We will continue to do this through our clothing, collaborating with artists on future designs and releasing more videos to project stories of individualism. Our event at Cavern in Exeter this week is sold out, only proving that people are embracing PYNK&BLU
‘ It is certain that the forwardthinking nature of Brighton College, promoted by Richard Cairns, inspired me…’
not only for the clothing but for what it stands for.”
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Steaks and Suits – OBs make their mark on Belgravia Eccleston Yards is a brand new development of creative working, leisure and retail that has recently opened in South Belgravia, just a five minute walk from Victoria train station. Joining the mix are two businesses that have been established by Duncan Watts (Ry. 1979-84) founder of The Jones Family Kitchen, and by brothers John Buni (Du. 1996-01) and Sam Buni (1987-91) of bespoke menswear brand Tailor Made London. John and Sam both followed similar paths after leaving Brighton. Sam graduated from the University of Liverpool having
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read Economics, and started his career as a trader at Lehman Brothers, whilst John read Geography and Economics at the University of Leeds and found his way to Goldman Sachs. The brothers set up Tailor Made in 2008 following a personal tailoring experience that didn’t meet their expectations, and travelled the world to source the finest components and artisans to create their garments. With luxury cloths from weavers in Yorkshire, to buttons and canvas from Germany, along with the finest craftsman at workshops in Italy, the Buni brothers ensured that every element of their bespoke suits was of the highest quality. The modern tailoring label utilises 3D body scanning technology to take measurements in just ten seconds, and offers a streamlined
and efficient service, whilst still retaining the luxury and quality of bespoke Italian craftsmanship. They are the only tailoring brand in the UK to use this revolutionary scanning technology. The new flagship store in Belgravia also boasts a high-tech body scanner and whisky bar. Around the corner, overlooking the main courtyard of the Yards, sits the welcoming Jones Family Kitchen, set up by Duncan Watts. After leaving Brighton, he read Law at Exeter before embarking on a career as a chartered accountant with KPMG. He then went on to become the Director of Finance and Strategy at Pitcher and Piano, successfully building the business to a turnover of £10 million before selling to
Marstons. This new restaurant offers all day dining with a year-round outside terrace, inventive cocktails, charcoal oven grilled steaks, daily catch specials and an impressive list of wines by the glass. Upon speaking to all three of these successful OBs, a common theme runs through their career paths; one of reinvention and discovery. All of the entrepreneurs eschewed their traditional paths in pursuit of something new. Watts particularly credits Brighton for encouraging him to try lots of different disciplines in sport, and instilling the ethos he carries with him today: to explore and try new things.
‘ Upon speaking to all three of these successful OBs, a common theme runs through their career paths; one of reinvention and discovery.’
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OB Spotlight
Jonathan Hyams
Shirley Waldron
Jacob Mann
Priya Rogers
Raja Dato’ Zamilia Raja Mansur
We caught up with some of our OBs of the Month about their time in Brighton and what they are up to now. If you have been inspired by a fellow Old Brightonian and would like to nominate them for an OB of the Month, please email us at ob@oldbrightonians – we’d love to hear from you!
Jonathan Hyams (Le. 1973–78) When I left Brighton College, I wanted to work in the movie business so I moved to Los Angeles. Since 1988 I have been an Archive Photo Editor, first for a small boutique agency and for the last eleven years with Getty Images. While most editors at Getty have a pretty limited job description, (that is, dealing with photographers and selecting images to post to the website), the two of us in the Los Angeles office have a much broader definition. 12
The Archive in London has about 60 million images and they have staff to search for negs, scan, caption and post them. There are defined editors that work on each stage. In our office – with only two of us, we find the images, scan, caption and post them as well as oversee dozens of contributors that regularly send in images from their own archives. Over the years, I have dealt with many world famous photographers who shot some of the most iconic images of the Twentieth Century.
Shirley Waldron (Fe. 1976-78) I knew I wanted to be an Architect from when I was about 13 or 14 years old. There was never any doubt in my mind in this matter. I worked as the party wall negotiator for Cannon Place and the Shard of Glass which are both beautiful buildings. Also, since 2010 I have been the party wall negotiator for Crossrail – it has been a great privilege to work on such an amazing infrastructure project.
Priya Rogers (Wi. 2009–11) I’m a foundation doctor. That means I’m the one running around in worn shoes holding piles of notes and doing the less glamorous jobs that our senior colleagues have reserved for me! I’ve also been working on a public engagement and education project in neurosurgery which we call Brainbook. This resource places emphasis on the patient’s
Laura Marsh
experience, and provides videos, illustrations, interviews, blog posts, and workshops helping to break down the barriers between neurosurgery and the public, and to defeat “neurophobia”. Real patient cases are also discussed on social media (with consent, of course), with videos of their operations and illustrations to explain the pathology.
City. Currently, I am working on the movie Spies in Disguise, an animated feature scheduled to release next year starring Will Smith and Tom Holland. I worked briefly on the movie Ferdinand, that was nominated for an Oscar for Best Animated Feature Film. Prior to that, I was lucky enough to work at Walt Disney Animation Studios.
Jacob Mann (Le. 2007–12)
Raja Dato’ Zamilia Raja Mansur (Fe. 1983–85)
Laura Marsh (Fe. 2000–05)
I have been involved in the corporate communications of many companies, ranging from government-linked companies to multinational corporations in various sectors for more than 20 years. These include aviation, automotive, hospitality, banking, building materials and agribusiness. I now have the opportunity to expand my career in the Sustainability & Environment division at Malaysia's leading agribusiness conglomerate.
I always wanted to play sport professionally – I loved both hockey and cricket. I play cricket for England as a full time professional. The best piece of advice I was given… to try everything and get involved in as much as I could. I learnt so much in my school years by experiencing different things. These experiences have shaped me as a person and also gave me some of the sporting skills which have got me to where I am now.
I had great teachers who did a lot to help me. Alan Bird was the one who sat me down and inspired me to find something I was really passionate about. He told me that there was something out there for me, I just needed to keep looking until I found it. I also feel a lot of gratitude towards the Art Department at Brighton, as that is where I ended up spending most of my time! I am now a Lighting Technical Director at Blue Sky Studios, a feature animation studio on the outskirts of New York
Having been bestowed the “Datukship” title by His Royal Highness Sultan of Perak, for my achievements towards the country’s development is one of my proudest moments. The “Datukship” can be equivalent to “Dame’’ (female) or “Sir” (male), I guess! My fondest memory of school… going to my favourite chip shop at Kemp Town – French fries with mayonnaise every weekend…!
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Thank you to all of our Old Brightonians who took part in our inaugural Professions Conference. If you are interested in supporting our careers programme, please contact us at careers@ oldbrightonians.com Alexis Affonso (Le. 1970–74) Richard Ager (Sc. 1970–75) Andrew Barley (Ha. 2002–07) Simon Bott (Le. 1974–79) John–Paul Carpenter (Ha. 1984–89) James Coleman (Ha. 1988–93) John Davys (Du. 1979–84) Jonathan Fallowfield (Ry. 1986–91) Adam Goldman (Ha. 1979–84) Harry Grocott (Le. 1997–12) Martin Harvey (Ha. 1983–85) Michael Hearn (Le. 1971–75) Gavin Henderson (Le. 1960–65) Alex Kolliari–Turner (BCPS/Al. 1997–12) Lauren Libin (Fe. 1995–00) Ingram Losner (BCJS/Du. 1971–78) Tim Riseborough (Du. 1988–93)
Professions Conference Old Brightonians support Brighton’s careers programme through volunteering and offering careers advice to current pupils.
In recent years, we have welcomed Old Brightonians back to school to speak to Brighton pupils about their careers and professional experiences. These events have always been extremely useful to our boys and girls, and had an impact on the choices they have made in regards to looking for work experience, applying to university and thinking more seriously about their futures. We decided to build on the success of these previous events and centralise these meaningful and important sessions into one inspiring day and host our first ever Brighton College Professions Conference. The day’s programme of seminars, lectures and networking sessions inspired pupils to come away with a clearer idea of some of the options open to them, expose them to a much wider range of career pathways than the traditional trajectory, and reflect on the routes
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that our graduates have pursued themselves. From professional musicians lecturing at the London College of Music (Rachel Smith, Fe. 1988–90), Groundwater and Land Contamination Specialist (John Davys, Du. 1979–84), to Logistics Officer and Submariner for the Royal Navy (Andrew Barley, Ha. 2007–07), we were absolutely blown away by the positive response from our alumni. Despite taking place in the midst of the ‘Beast from the East’, on a very snowy Saturday morning in March, over forty OBs returned to their old school to speak to our Sixth Formers about how they chose (or didn't choose!) their career paths. We were also extremely lucky to welcome back Ingram Losner (BCJS/Du. 1971–78) as our keynote speaker all the way from San Diego California, who has built an extremely successful recruiting firm in the US, having previously worked in the UK.
Networking We know how important professional networking is and this is why we offer career support to our alumni and pupils. Whether it is finding an internship, preparing for interviews or meeting experts in the field, the Old Brightonians network is an invaluable source.
‘ I had not realised how helpful the OB network could be and how unique it is. My friends at university have nothing like the support or sense of community with their old schools like we do.’
Paul Samrah (Le. 1972–77) David Sherwood (Ha. 1963–67) Rachel Smith (Fe. 1988–90) Tom Speirs (Sc. 2004–07) William Stevens (Al. 1989–94) Alison Taylor (Fe. 1982–84) Alexandra Tribe (Wi. 1991–95) Richard Wade (Ha. 1981–86) Shirley Waldron (Fe. 1976–78) Andrew Watts (Ha. 1975–80) Stephen Webbe (Sc. 1957–62) Alasdair Wilson (Le. 2003–08) Nicholas Winsor (Br. 1975–79) Joshua Winter (Al. 1997–02)
Jemima Johnston (Ne. 2011–16)
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Events
Dinners overseas With OBs spread across seventy six countries around the world, we ensure that we stay in touch with everyone. Our fourth annual dinner in Kuala Lumpur was once again hosted by Dato’ Mark Yeoh (Br/Ch. 1983–84), and continues to grow in attendance each year, The Brighton College Hong Kong Dinner again saw our pupils, parents, staff and Old Brightonians in Hong Kong meet for a special black tie dinner, at the Renaissance Harbour View Hotel in December 2017. Guests were treated to a brilliant and rather amusing speech from Director of Pupil Engagement, Martin Lewis, who updated everyone on news from Brighton. And last but not least, it was absolutely fantastic to see our OBs on the West Coast in San Francisco, an event which has been long overdue.
Our annual event programme has something for everyone, here are some highlights from the past year...
City Drinks This year, Old Brightonians met in London, Brighton, Winchester and Hong Kong. In February, over sixty Old Brightonians met up on the roof top terrace of the then newly refurbished Karma Sanctum Hotel in Soho, London, which is part of the Karma Group family of hostels and hotels owned by John Spence (Le. 1975–80). We can safely say that Karma did not disappoint. Our Brighton drinks in April was held at the Walrus in the South Laines of Brighton, perhaps vaguely reminding Old Brightonians of their adolescence. Old Brightonians in Hong Kong met twice this year for Spring and Autumn Drinks, organised by the OB Hong Kong team led by OB Ambassador Sidney Ko (BCJS/Sc. 1973–79) and assisted by Victor Law (Ab. 2009–13) and Charles Poon (Ab. 2007–09).
Pioneers Club We host two special lunches for our OB Pioneers annually, one in London and one in Brighton, for our alumni over 60 who are linked through their memories of the College. It was brilliant to welcome some new faces to the London Luncheon. This included Mervyn Dunhilll (Br. 1959–64) who was attending his first ever OB event, who regaled the assembled company with his recollection of his friendship with Gavin Henderson CBE (Le .1960–65), who he had not seen for fifty three years.
University Dinners
1978 40 Year Reunion “Why do the five years we spent at school seem like forty, and the forty years we’ve spent since, seem like five?” On a lovely Saturday evening in June, thirty of our 1978 leavers returned to their old school for drinks on the lawn and dinner together in their old dining hall. Joined by some of their old teachers, including Simon Smith (CR, 1973–2011), Tony Whitestone (CR, 1973–2006), and John Ridler (CR, 1972-1990), our Old Brightonians spent the evening reconnecting, reminiscing and laughing. Reunions are such special occasions, and have such a profound effect on the school, reminding us of the wider scope of our community– especially since we had Meera (Fe. 1977–79) and Bhavani (Fe. 1976–78) join from Malaysia, and Ingram (BCJS/Du. 1971–78) from San Diego!
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Following in the tradition of our OB Oxbridge dinners, which have proved consistently popular over the past ten years, we launched our OB London Universities Dinner four years ago, and just last year our OB West of England Universities Dinner, which reaches our alumni at UWE, Bristol, Bath, Exeter, Cardiff and Plymouth. A huge thank you to the Appleby Sisters, Kate (Se. 2011–14) and Emma (Se. 2012–16), for helping to organise this new event. We love catching up with OBs, hearing about all they have been up to both inside and out of the lecture theatre, as well as filling them in on what is happening at Brighton.
‘ The Old Brightonians community is special and I always look forward to attending OB events.’
Get in touch If you would like to organise a reunion or an event, or have any questions regarding events, please get in touch with us at ob@oldbrightonians.com or on +44 (0) 1273 704 250, we would love to hear from you.
Shaan Bains (Ch. 2010–15)
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‘ It has been a great privilege to see the school change as much as it has and to be able to embrace the change.’
A Lifetime in Education If you passed through the College between 1973 and 2011 then no doubt you will have fond memories of Simon Smith, whether through playing in one of the cricket or hockey teams he coached, acting in a play he directed or as a pupil in one of his English lessons. During his thirty-eight years at Brighton College, Simon Smith was Housemaster of Leconfield, Head of Drama, Director of Activities, Deputy Headmaster, Acting Headmaster and finally Second Master – a role resurrected for him by Richard Cairns.
Journalist and OB Vanessa Cuddeford (Wi. 1996–98) returned to the College to talk to Simon (in the building that now bears his name) about his memories of teaching and about life in retirement.
How did it all begin? I came along here one March afternoon in 1973 for an interview with Bill Blackshaw – the Head Master – who was in the early stages of his headship then. I was one of a group of young staff he recruited. The others were Philip Robinson (CR. 1971–2000), Tony Whitestone (1971–2006), Oliver Smyth (1973–2011) and John Pope (1973–present), and amazingly we all stayed here – quite extraordinary. The idea of staying never occurred to me at the time. One thought “I’ll do this for a couple of years and then perhaps get a proper job or go to another school” – but no… I stayed! It was the sense of togetherness and united purpose. It was a little bit like an extension of undergraduate life. We would have dinner together, possibly go to the pub. There was always lots of talk, lots of laughter
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When were the halcyon days and what are your happiest memories? The 90s was a very good time before I’d become a deputy but still had a senior position in the school. I was still doing a lot of teaching. When you become a deputy you do a lot less teaching, which is a great pity. One is in a place like this in order to teach, so my happiest memories are a whole medley of classroom experiences and often the laughter! I’ve always said laughter is a terribly important ingredient in teaching. I also enjoyed seeing pupils get better. Marking can be a very tedious business at times but seeing someone get better at writing an essay or understanding a complex idea in a Shakespeare play is very pleasing. And did you ever get bored? Presumably you’ve taught Othello, for example, many times with different classes… No, I’ve never got bored with a text. Othello, as you mention it, is a play I haven’t taught all that much but no I would never get bored with teaching Hamlet or any Shakespeare text… or actually any text, because every text is different depending on the audience you’re teaching it to. Every generation brings its different view to it, its different associations.
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‘ It was the sense of togetherness and united purpose. There was always lots of talk, lots of laughter.’
You’ve seen the College under four Head Masters. What change have you seen in that time? Every Head Master creates his own school. Bill Blackshaw had an imposing presence and he ran the school on pretty traditional lines. In the 60s and 70s and even in the 80s Head Masters had to be tough disciplinary figures. I don’t think that applies so much these days because there are so many layers of management who look after the discipline of the school. Heads are much more in the way of CEOs now, who delegate responsibility. John Leach was in a different mould. A donnish classicist, a nice man who sought academic rigour. Then came Anthony Seldon and it became a very different school. There was suddenly so much more to do, so many more events packed into a week. He had that extraordinary ability to hold your attention. And he had a very clear vision for what he wanted to do with the school.
Richard Cairns was again very different to his predecessor, but like him, highly intelligent, hard-working and with a clear vision of where he wants the school to go. He knows instinctively what’s going to work with parents – and people are flocking into the place. When people see successful schools like Brighton College they wonder about the pressure on pupils. Is it more pressured than it used to be? All schools are pressured these days, as all jobs are. Expectations of all employees are far greater now, no matter what sphere of life you’re talking about. We are all more regulated than we ever were. But I don’t think the pressure is greater here at Brighton College than anywhere else. It’s good for teenagers to work hard and do a lot of “stuff ”. Criticism is always going to be levelled at a successful school. It’s a particularly British thing not to applaud success but somehow to question it.
After you stopped teaching here in 2011, you went on to help set up the London Academy of Excellence – a Sixth Form free school in Newham, London – which has had outstanding results. How important has that been to you? My job was to deal with the Department for Education and Newham Council, help to appoint the Head and get on board other schools to be partners in LAE – for example Eton lent us two English teachers, so that was great. The school has made a huge difference in Newham. Pupils are now getting the same sort of A–level results as they get at Brighton College. Last year there were 20 Oxbridge offers. It’s the Head and the teachers who did it, but it’s very gratifying to feel that a school one had a part in setting up has succeeded so well. Retirement doesn’t sound much like retirement. You’ve also written a book! Yes, I’ve been writing a history of St John’s School in Brighton. It started in the late 19th
century as a home for convalescent children and orphaned girls to be trained for domestic service. It was set up by an extraordinary woman called Sister Jane Borradaile to care for children from the East End who’d been ill and just needed fresh air. Today it specialises in looking after autistic children. And it’s been fascinating writing about it. It’s something I’ve never really done before. We’re in the unusual position where we’re sitting here talking in The Simon Smith building. How does it feel to have had such a central role in the school’s life that they named a building after you? I was tremendously flattered. I didn’t know anything about it until Speech Day, the year I left – 2011. Richard Cairns announced it and I really was totally surprised. So it was a lovely gesture and meant a great deal to me. Having said that, I don’t come along and sit around in MY building… I would never come unless I was invited!
Do you miss being here? No… though I tell you what I do miss. Sometimes in town or even on the bus I will see College pupils. When I was here, I would instinctively have chatted to them and asked them how they were getting on. Occasionally I’ll see them and I have to supress an instinct to say “how’s it going, who are you playing this afternoon, I saw you in the play the other evening?” But I can’t because the majority wouldn’t know who on earth I was! So yes, I miss the casual day-in, day-out interaction with the young.
very high expectations don’t fulfil them in the way you think they’re going to. What would you hope that you have passed on to those children who’ve sat in your classes over the years – what’s the one thing? I hope they’ve continued to read books and have taken on something of a love of literature and also a love of music and other arts. When you teach English, it’s hard not to relate to spheres of other artistic endeavour, so I would hope that I’ve passed that on.
Do you have a sense as a teacher of how your pupils are going to turn out in life?
And if you were to meet that young man walking into the college for the first time in 1973, what would you say to him?
One learns not to be surprised at how people turn out. I think it’s far too easy as a teacher to write people off because they’re not going to get at least a B in your subject. But that doesn’t mean to say they’re not going to do well. Sometimes remarkably quiet people at school do surprisingly well. It’s perhaps more often the case that people of whom one has
I would probably feel terribly embarrassed to see him – I certainly had very long hair in those days, which lots of people did, but I would certainly have been amazed to realise that this young man had stayed teaching in the same place for 38 years. But it has been a great privilege to see the school change as much as it has and to be able to embrace the change. Vanessa Cuddeford (Wi. 1996-98)
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Brighton’s Library Oriel Window Brighton’s iconic Library Oriel window has undergone a huge restoration project this year, which has been by far one of our most prominent and significant restorations to the historic Grade II listed, Gilbert-Scott building complex on campus. The Gilbert-Scott building, or to most Old Brightonians known as ‘the Clock Tower’, is the oldest of the College’s buildings, completed in 1849, following designs by Sir George Gilbert Scott. Scott was a not yet a household name when he was commissioned to design the College campus, but nonetheless won the school’s architectural competition. With an architectural style of English Gothic Revival, he was chiefly associated with the design, building and renovation of churches and cathedrals. He would go on to become one of the most prolific architects Great Britain has produced, with over 800 buildings being designed or altered by him, including the Midland Grand Hotel at St Pancras Station, the Albert Memorial, and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in London. In 1849, the College looked slightly different to the modern site, with only the original Gilbert-Scott building, which today houses Chichester and Seldon House with the Library on top. Rather than an enclosed quadrangle, the College was set as a court, open to the south. Technical drawings were produced for every stone to ensure that they fit together perfectly into what can now be seen. The draughtsman has been able to build back to within 5mm of its original lines, which is a testament to his ability and care on the project, more so because the original building was out of alignment, out of level and the various windows had been re-made to various sizes due to the gradual erosion suffered!
Original carvings, which were previously indistinguishable due to years of decay and low-quality repairs, have been brought back to life. Examples around the College were identified and then further researched, before being drawn for approval, and then hand-carved. A particular highlight was the development of the grotesque, poking his tongue out at those who pass by, whilst being frowned at by the other regal heads! For the restoration, the window was removed in its entirety and rebuilt in new caen stone that is faithful to the original. Workmanship of the highest quality has been maintained throughout the build, whilst overcoming numerous technical difficulties associated with working on such an old and substantial construction. The work on site has taken place over a period of 3 ½ months. In this time, they have removed circa 15 tonnes of eroded stone and cementitious render, propped and retained the surrounding structure and finishes and rebuilt stone by stone, with no room for error. The replacement starts just above the Portland stone corbel, right up to the top of the roof, using the same materials and techniques as would have been back in 1849 with lime mortar, all doweled and cramped together to provide a stunning framework for the restored leaded light windows to be reinstalled. If you have a particular interest in the history of Brighton College, or have any queries for our archivist, please get in touch with us at archives@brightoncollege.net. James Harrison College Archivist
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www.oldbrightonians.com
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THE PELICAN ISSUE NO. 30 2018
Sports
Los Pelicanos Hermanos – OB Rugby Summer 7s By Benjamin Wroblewski, Coach of Los Pelicanos Hermanos The glorious Summer of 2018 started really positively with Los Pelicanos Hermanos attending the rearranged Worthing 7s event, a national qualifier for the 24/7s series. We were thrilled to welcome 2018 Leavers for their debuts: Jon Searle (Ha. 2013–18), Alfie Beadle (BCPS/Al. 2008–18) and Henry Bellm (BCPS/Du. 2003–18) who all who played a vital role in a successful cup triumph, Bellm scoring the final try against a tough Burgess Hill RFC in the final! A huge well done to on the day Captain Lewis Edwards (Du. 2008–15) and surprise last minute addition James Lasis (Du. 2012–14) whom we hope France is treating well, by the way! On to the national semi-final at Ealing 7s, where LPH suffered a big, big loss in the final of the plate against Tunbridge Wells RFC. However, fantastic and narrow losses against touring sides Tornadoes 7s and Apache 7s in the group stage really were a fantastic result. Nathan Parker (Du. 2008–15), Jake Lytle (BCPS/Ha. 2001–15)
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and Tom Holborn (Ha. 2006–11) played a key part on the day. Next up was the Burgess Hill 7s, and unfortunately after some huge fifty point margin victories (and plenty of tries for Craig Searle) in the group stages, LPH lost in the Cup Semi-Final. Alex Maguire (Le. 2010–15) and Miles Dibsdall (Du. 2010–15) showed their class as they scored and created tries for fun in the early stages of the tournament. The next week, both Marcus (Ha. 2011–16) and Gregor Ramage (Ha. 2011–16) returned to coach LPH in the Worthing 10s where for a second year running LPH lost in the plate final, a tough pill to swallow as the tourists were dominant throughout the game but couldn’t get the ball over the line at the right times. Star men of the day were Charlie Pilcher (Sc. 2012–17) and Alex Boyd (Ha. 2005–15) (until the injury). A tough week at the Southsea Nomads tournament was the next trip were LPH ventured into the plate semi-final. Finally, LPH saw a few returning faces as Alex Dobbie (Ab. 2012–17), Harry Venn (Ab. 2012–17) and Alex Brown (BCPS/ Ha. 2007–17), and physio George Gavoyannis (Al. 2012–17) – who all helped the Old Brightonians retain their plate trophy at Littlehampton 10s.
As always, Los Pelicanos Hermanos are looking for playing and non-playing members, we are an all-inclusive club who would love to see some old and new faces and fellow rugby friends! You are all invited to take part in our OB Peter Rumney Memorial Match which is taking place on Saturday 29th December at Hove RFC.
Tournaments 2018 Worthing 7s
Cup Winners
Ealing 7s
Plate Finalists
Burgess Hill 7s
Cup Semi-Finalists
Worthing 10s
Plate Finalists
Southsea Nomads 10s Plate Semi-Finalists Littlehampton 10s
Plate Winners
OB Golf Society and the Halford Hewitt 2018 By Julian Hunt (Du. 1984-87) The OB Golf Society played the Halford Hewitt this April, a Scratch Foursomes event comprising sixty four teams of ten players. This year we were drawn at Royal Cinque Ports at Deal.
Despite the miserable winter, weather conditions for our first practice round at Rye were good and some scintillating golf was on offer on one of the best tracks in Sussex. Most seemed in good form and the captain was beginning to feel slightly uneasy about selection. A decent claret at lunch seemed to calm the nerves and provide the necessary clarity of thought. So it was that we moved on to Deal for the main event, the final practice round on Wednesday with an air of optimism. Wednesday dawned bright but with a 40mph wind, making the back 9 incredibly challenging. The great Jack Nicklaus has described these holes as the toughest finishing holes in golf. In to a 40 mph wind, he was not wrong. Some of the younger brethren suggested just playing the front 9 and then retiring to Royal St Georges for lunch. Against his better judgement, the Captain rallied the troops and we pressed on in to the teeth of the gale. No harm done and no swings wrecked so all was well. We dined well in Deal that night and the batting order was announced:
1. Andy Sweet (Du. 1986–91) and Mark Budd (Du. 2004–09) 2. Ben Roberts (Al. 2009–11) and Roland Ainsworth (Du. 2002–07) 3. Chris Gates (Ry. 1985–90)and Chris Long (Du. 1984–89) 4. Julian Hunt (Du. 1984–87)and Bailey Carter (Le. 2010–17) 5. Patrick Spencer (Ry. 1994-99) and Elliot Cloy (Al. 2002-05) Again the weather was great and we breakfasted well. Our tee off time was 3.20 so some went to Princes to play 9 while the captain returned to bed for some well earned rest. The matches started well with Brighton up and 3 and all square in the other 2 at the turn. As can so often happen in foursomes things changed quickly and by the end, the matches were tied at two apiece with Spencer and Cloy and Sweet and Budd winning their games and Carter and Hunt and Ainsworth and Roberts narrowly losing their matches at the 17th. This left Gates and Long on the course all square playing the 18th. Long hit a beauty down the middle of the fairway, before Gates knocked the second close to the green. Stowe were in difficulty but managed to hole a 15 foot putt to halve the match.
So it was back down the first extra hole. Gates smacked one down the middle and then rather fortuitously, Stowe hit theirs out of bounds. Never has the sound of golf ball on concrete sounded so sweet to Brighton ears. Long laid up short of the burn before Gates chipped up to 5 feet, forcing the concession from Stowe and meaning Brighton had won a first round match at the Hewitt for the first time for 24 years. One of the Stowe supporters was heard to say: “Where does that leave Stowe golf now?” which is a measure of the importance of the win. A significant amount of champagne was imbibed to mark this truly memorable occasion. And we even had the satisfaction of joining Hurst in the pub to celebrate our victory. Cranleigh followed the next day, and although the score line was 4.5–0.5 in their favour, every match went to the 17th or 18th, it was very close. In summary then, a great Hewitt, and a real sense that we are continuing the progress of recent years. With two good young players in Carter and Cloy and potentially more to follow from the next crop of leavers things are looking very rosy indeed for the future. www.oldbrightonians.com
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THE PELICAN ISSUE NO. 30 2018
Welcome to the Old Brightonians
Alan Bird Alan Bird was an outstanding Deputy Headmaster of the College and departed in December 2017 to become the Headmaster of City of London School. Alan arrived at Brighton College from Tonbridge in January 2010 where he was the Head of Politics. After a gruelling interview process that involved getting past the critical eye of Mrs Riley, Alan took up the post of Head of Sixth Form, and almost instantly we saw an increase in the numbers securing places at top universities, including Oxford and Cambridge. From my prospective, though, I thought his great strength was as a listener, and many ex-pupils at the time speak warmly about Alan’s influence at the OB drinks events where they very much hope to see the man himself. He was a great Head of Sixth Form, and I think if you ask Alan he might say it was his favourite job at BC. But Mr Cairns had bigger things lined up for Alan, and he was appointed Deputy Head (Innovation and Development) in 2013. This was a new post and Alan made so many essential changes that one wonders how we managed without the role in the past. Alan then took on the role of Deputy Head (Staff). 26
Farewell Of course, Alan’s brilliant organisational skills were not in doubt, and were swung into action in terms of sorting out all appointments, internal and external. Less obvious was his understanding and compassion with regard to all staff issues; talk to any teacher at Brighton College and they will relay a story of the kindness of Alan Bird. Alan is a genuine all-round school master. Even as he progressed up the ranks, his favourite part of the job was the teaching, as it is for everyone in this profession. Old Brightonians love him, especially those involved with American politics and the Target Two Point Zero competition; many of them have kept in touch with Alan over the years. Alan is also a man who has shown genuine leadership. He gets things done, and so his success at the CLS is not in doubt. Thank you, Mr Bird, on behalf of the entire college community for everything you have done. Joe Carr-Hill
This year we have bid farewell to three teachers who have been at the College for many years and who many of you will have known throughout your time here. Sally Woodmansey joined the Business Studies department as a part-time teacher but it wasn’t long before she took over as Head of Department where Business Studies flourished under her leadership, she was an outstanding HMM of Ryle, and tutor in both New House and Seldon. She also ran Young Enterprise with teams reaching both the regional and Sussex finals on numerous occasions. The boys in Ryle will miss a simply outstanding tutor in Paul Sperring. Some may remember his first classroom was in the long-since demolished Old Music School, in a room known as the “butterscotch box from hell” (notwithstanding if indeed there is a physical or moral state called hell) – which was alternately freezing in winter and an oven in summer. Graham Hart was a Brighton College legend. Naturally, he was an excellent teacher, with his infectious enthusiasm and the “Harty Top Tips”. But the truly great teachers have that instinctive understanding of a pupil’s weak spots, regardless of their ability, and Graham has this in spades. Graham also coached all
manner of teams throughout each year, rarely missing a Saturday fixture. And of course, there was his love of House Song. Graham loved it so much he donated a very impressive trophy with the winners from the past 20 years already engraved. One doesn’t see all-round school masters like Graham very often these days. You will be sorely missed, Harty!
‘ There are new sights to see, new journeys to make, new lessons to learn. After tomorrow, adulthood beckons.’ Richard Cairns
Graduation 2018 As our Head Master said to our 2018 Leavers in their Graduation Ceremony at the end of June “There are new sights to see, new journeys to make, new lessons to learn. After tomorrow, adulthood beckons.” Luckily, you are part of the Old Brightonians now, a network of thousands of alumni of Brighton College, all around the world. Do make sure that you make the most of being an Old Brightonian and join the online networking platform that we have, Brighton College Connect, come to events, and stay in touch with us and tell us about what you are up to – we always love to hear from you.
www.oldbrightonians.com
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THE PELICAN ISSUE NO. 30 2018
Development
The Sports and Science Centre
We deeply value the continued generosity of the OB community, and are grateful for the donations we receive - no matter how large or small. By contributing to Brighton College, you are helping us to secure our future and provide a world-class education for our pupils. If you would like to find our more about our projects and how you can help, please contact the Development and Engagement Team at development@brightoncollege.net or +44 (0) 1273 704226.
The Kai Yong Yeoh Building September 2017 saw the official opening of our newest development in the school’s ten-year capital development programme, The Kai Yong Yeoh Building. Following his generous donation to the project, Old Brightonian and Malaysian philanthropist Dato’ Mark Yeoh (Br/Ch. 1983–84) named the building after his mother, Puan Sri Kai Yong Yeoh, who spent her career as a teacher of mathematics. Adjacent to the Great Hall, it replaces several outdated structures on site. Constructed of stone and brick, the award winning Hopkins Architects ensured visual continuity with the surrounding environment of our historic Grade II listed buildings. The new Yeoh Building includes twenty-two new classrooms for mathematics, economics, history, politics, and EAL as well as breakout spaces for students and staff, and offices.
In its commanding position on the top floor of The Kai Yong Yeoh Building overlooking the campus, the Creative Learning Centre has also now seen its inaugural year of lessons. It is a classroom like no other. The double-height ceiling and glass panels make it a beautifully light and airy space, which spans the entire width of the new building. It is a flexible blank canvas for teachers, and has been designed to allow for new teaching styles, with a focus on collaboration and interactivity. Gone are the days of formulaic lessons and passive learning. The portable nature of the furniture means that the space can adapt quickly; one moment, the class is split into small groups around the room (perhaps grouped by the different colours of chair), and the next, the room is suddenly a re-creation of the House of Commons in parallel lines, ready for a debate. The Creative Learning Centre really has transformed teaching and learning at Brighton and the boys and girls particularly look forward to their lessons there. With the workplace being increasingly centred on technology and collaboration, this invaluable new facility is key in preparing our pupils for the world of work.
‘ The Creative Learning Centre really is a unique and special space, heralded by the pupils as the future of learning and as a prototype for how lessons can be made more fun and dynamic. I was lucky enough to have classes there’
We know that schools are not about buildings. They are about teaching and learning. But creating inspiring learning spaces not only enables and encourages innovative and engaging lessons, it also allows us to continue to attract and retain the very best teachers from across the globe. The new Centre for Sports and Science has been designed by worldrenowned architects OMA, and will provide pupils with a stunning space where scientific and sporting disciplines weave around one another. This contemporary development is due to open in winter 2019 and will house 18 laboratories and breakout areas, a lecture theatre, ICT suite, indoor running track, rooftop running track, aerobics studio, strength and conditioning suite, bio-lab greenhouse, sports hall, swimming pool, and a café and juice bar. This is the biggest construction project in the College’s 173-year history, bringing sports and science departments together, providing teachers and pupils with an incredible learning space.
Brighton Fund Despite our recent successes, and we are very proud of them, the College is an institution that needs support. In preceding years, the College was often doing its best to stay afloat. Now it is very much on the map. But, it is still after all these years an institution with no endowment. And, it is with this in mind that we put in place the Brighton Fund; an unrestricted fund to help Brighton College reach its full potential. Every year, more and more Old Brightonians begin contributing to this important fund, which continues to make a significant impact on school-life.
Tom Verelst-Way (Du. 2013–18)
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www.oldbrightonians.com
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THE PELICAN ISSUE NO. 30 2018
“A VERY HAPPY PLACE” Country Life
In Memory
BRIGHTON COLLEGE
A MAGICAL JOURNEY
“SUCH A FUN PLACE TO BE” Good Schools Guide
England’s Independent School of the Year The Sunday Times
Chris Apps (Ha/Al. 1942–46)
So successful was he that following his official retirement in 1994, he returned four years later to cover for an absent colleague, and continued as a part-time teacher until the grand old age of 77. He always claimed he would have liked to go on for a year or two longer.
Christopher (Chris) Apps (Ha/Al. 1942–46) died on Monday 5 March 2018 at the Royal Sussex County Hospital following a stroke, shortly before his 90th birthday. Chris was a devoted Old Brightonian ever since leaving the College in 1948 to do his National Service in the Royal Artillery. He gave his time very generously to the Old Brightonians Association, serving both as Secretary and President. The welfare of both the Old Brightonians and the College was his concern for near on 70 years. A tangible legacy of Chris’ generosity can be seen in John Skelton’s statue of The Diver, which adorns the pond on the south lawn of the Chapel. For over 50 years Chris was an extremely loyal stalwart of the Old Brightonian Lodge, becoming both its Secretary and Master. The Old Brightonians extends its sincere condolences to Chris’ wife Betty and his family, which includes his son Richard (Ha. 1975–1980).
David Dunn (BC Swimming Coach, 2005–17) David was our wonderful swimming coach and a particular inspiration to those he taught in the Pre-Prep and Prep Schools. So many of our pupils learned to swim with David, but alongside the beginner lessons, he was one of the most qualified triathlon coaches in the country and a number gained national representation as a result of his guidance. In so many ways, David really made a difference to the lives of hundreds of others and there are not many people of whom that can be said. His was a life well-lived and his popularity and influence are reflected in the now annual David Dunn Relays which take place at the seafront in Michaelmas, the first in 2017 at which David was able to be present before his death the following week.
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Peter Withers (Common Room, 1973–07) Peter Withers, who was a member of Common Room for 34 years from 1973 to 2007, died at home in Seaford on Monday 16 April 2018, aged 87. He was a hugely influential presence in the school in the last three decades of the 20th century, as Head of Biology, Housemaster of Durnford, Director of Studies, coach to rugby, football and cricket teams and wise mentor to countless members of staff. He was a consummate schoolmaster. Above all Peter was an excellent classroom practitioner, with his unerring eye for what the examiners were looking for and his unswerving belief in his pupils’ capabilities.
His energies were of course not confined to the classroom: he coached games with the same fervour that he had played them during his Cambridge days (this extended to OBs’ cricket too); and ensured that the clubbability of the Common Room was kept alive through his ebullient stewardship of it as secretary. For years he was the Master of Ceremonies par excellence of the annual Summer Ball. Indeed there were few areas of school life which he did not live to the full. The whole Withers family, from their busy home in Walpole Road, were involved in college life during the 1970s: Mark, Susan, Kim, Julian and Simon were all pupils here; and Barbara was his loyal wife and support at a plethora of social events for friends, staff and parents. His last few years were blighted by the onset of Parkinson’s disease, which he bore with good humour and fortitude. He remained excellent company until the very end. We send Barbara and the family our sympathies.
OPEN MORNING SAT 2 FEB | BRIGHTONCOLLEGE.ORG.UK
“ONE WORD: EXCEPTIONA L” Tatler
BRIGHTON COLLEGE
WISH YOU WERE HERE
“MOST FORWARD THINKING SCHOOL” The Week
England’s Independent School of the Year The Sunday Times
In Memory Chris Apps (Ha/Al. 1942–46)
Anthony Kemp (Ch. 1952–57)
John Chaplin (Le. 1954–57)
David Leach (Ha. 1948–51)
Thomas Clifford (Ha. 2011–15)
Ian Manning (Le. 1943–46)
Nibbs Davis (Le/Sc. 1948–1952)
Derek Pickering (Le. 1949–58)
Peter Davis (Ch. 1948–52)
Charles Proe (Du. 1951–1960)
Kevin Fenlon (Br. 1963–1968)
Christopher Quayle (Le. 1943–46)
Simon Freedman (Ch. 1957–61)
Camilla Ravenshear (Fe. 1976–78)
Bob Garwood (Br. 1954–59)
Michael Rees (Ch. 1945–50)
Roger Goodwin (Ha. 1948–51)
Michael Senyard (Al. 1950–53)
Ken Harris (Sc. 1949–54)
Giles Stone (Al. 1978–1981)
Phillip Jones (Br. 1935–40)
Mark Whittaker (Le. 1944–50)
OPEN MORNING SAT 26 JAN | BRIGHTONCOLLEGE.ORG.UK
The 1845 Society A Gift to Future Generations
Leaving a legacy gift to Brighton College can make a transformative impact on the education we provide to future generations boys and girls. It also allows us to increase the number of scholarships and bursaries that we can offer. Membership of the 1845 Society is offered to those who indicate to the College that they have made, or intend on making provision for Brighton in their Will. For more details on legacy giving and the 1845 Society, please contact our Director of Development and Engagement Scott Sheridan at ssheridan@brightoncollege.net or by telephone on +44 (0) 1273 704 375.
OLD BRIGHTONIANS Brighton College Brighton East Sussex BN2 0AL Registered Charity No. 307061
T +44 (0) 1273 704 250 E ob@oldbrightonians.com
EDITOR Veronika Neroj
www.oldbrightonians.com
FRONT COVER Dave Thompson Art
@obnetwork @oldbrightonians
DESIGN Anderson Norton Design