OS Magazine 2025

FOR ALUMNI AND FRIENDS OF QUEEN ELIZABETH GRAMMAR SCHOOL

THE OLD SAVILIAN ISSUE 08 SUMMER 2025

www.qegsonline.org.uk

‘IT IS A DISGRACE TO BE IGNORANT’

Contents 06

16

18

03

HEAD’S WELCOME

04

OS CLUB

06

CLASS OF 2025

08

SCHOOL NEWS

12

EVENTS

14

GIVING BACK

16

OS NEWS

28

OS MEMORIES

32

LIVES REMEMBERED

12

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Welcome from the Development Team Welcome to this latest issue of The Old Savilian, bringing news from our Old Savilian Community. We have both been in post for just over a year now, and have had the pleasure of meeting so many of you at our events and during your visits back to school.

We are honoured to be part of the work that keeps our alumni community connected, informed, and inspired. We see firsthand how your generosity fuels opportunities: from philanthropic support for our bursary fund, to volunteering your time to speak to students though our mentoring and careers programmes, to attending our events and reunions. Your continued support echoes through every corner of the school and beyond.

Whether you're flipping through to catch up with classmates, discover new initiatives, or revisit memories of your time here, we hope you enjoy reading the features and memories in this edition.

Thank you for being part of our story.

Abi Cattley Development Director acattley@wgsf.net

Lizzie White Development Officer lwhite@wgsf.net

QEGS Development Office, 154 Northgate, Wakefield, WF1 3QX

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STAY IN TOUCH Visit the official QEGS Old Savilians’ Website for all alumni profiles, news, events calendar and booking information.

You can also claim your Old Sav profile and update your information and contact details Visit: www.qegsonline.org.uk or scan the code here to login or register

Join the Old Savilians’ Club Facebook Group to keep up to date with event and reunion information, QEGS and Old Sav news and memories.

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Connect and network with fellow Old Savs and keep up to date with all our news.

Search Old Savilians (QEGS Wakefield)

HEAD: Richard Brookes

Welcome Dear Old Savilians,

As I write, the Foundation Charity Fair is in full swing, with both the boys and girls enjoying some well deserved fun before the end of term, all in a good cause.

It has been another packed year at QEGS, one which has seen many changes, with more to come as our plans to become Queen Elizabeth’s School in September 2026 move forward. There will be more on that in a few pages, but as we approach the end of our penultimate year at QEGS, I wanted to share with you a few of the highlights…

In what is becoming an annual occurrence, three pupils in Years 9-11 won prizes in Young Historian of Year essay competitions. One of those was a ‘stunning entry’, in the words of the judges, on ‘The decline of trains in West Yorkshire’. I think it is wonderful that QEGS is a school in which pupils are able to pursue such niche interests; that particular boy is also the leader of the model railway society and works with our Development Team to help catalogue the Foundation Archives. Do come in and see their work.

After a stunning comeback victory over Warwick in the semi-final - the last 10 minutes were amongst the most exciting and nerve-wracking of any school rugby I’ve watched - QEGS 1st XV were thrilled to head to Twickenham to face Harrow in the Continental Tyres Schools Cup final in March. The whole school travelled to support them, and the atmosphere in the stadium was electric. While the result was not in QEGS’ favour, ultimately falling 22-14 to a strong Harrow side, the team showcased their resilience and determination and their performance was one of heart and passion.

This outstanding performance was swiftly followed by our celebration of 150 years of Rugby at QEGS, where it was wonderful to see so many Old Savilians take to the pitch again - not to mention hobble off it later on looking slightly worse for wear! With over 350 Old Savilians, Old Girls, parents and staff past and present in attendance, it was a true celebration of our history.

Alongside our sporting success, pupils have also been showcasing their talents in music. Our recent annual summer concert brought together gifted musicians from QEGS and WGHS together for an unforgettable evening of sound and celebration - the finale, pulled together by a once in a generation group of Year 13s was truly special for football fans, think of Man Utd’s “Class of 92”, and that’s what these boys and girls are like.

This year also saw our talented Year 6 boys light up the stage in their final QEGS Junior production. This year it was a thrilling take on Jekyll and Hyde, with a few detours into some other gothic stories along the way! This performance held extra significance as it marked the 25th and final production led by the legendary Chris Cheffins.

Over the years, Mr Cheffins has been the creative force behind countless memorable school productions, and his hallmark flair and passion were once again on full display.

It was a fitting finale to a remarkable career.

It has been wonderful to see so many Old Savilians coming back to support the school this year by attending our events, speaking to the boys as part of our programme of careers talks or as part of our mentoring programme. I have enjoyed meeting you all, and hearing your stories of your time at QEGS. Your deep connections to the school and our community remind me of the values we all hold dear, and I look forward to continuing those traditions, and bringing in some new ones as we move forward with the transformation of the schools.

Richard Brookes Head www.qegsonline.org.uk 3

OS CLUB

THE OLD SAVILIANS’ CLUB The Old Savilians’ Club was formed in 1898 and took its name from The Savile Family, the benefactors who brought ‘Queen Elizabeth Grammar School, Wakefield’ into existence in 1591.

Throughout its existence the Club has remained remarkably faithful to its original objectives to promote good fellowship of all Old Savilians, to strengthen the links between past and present, and to promote the interests and prosperity of the School and its alumni. From the outset dinners, sporting and social events have been seen as a vital means of pursuing the Club’s objectives, with the first annual

dinner being held in the School Hall (now the School’s reception hall) on January 11, 1899. This tradition continues and The Old Savilians’ Club and the school continue to work hard to offer our Alumni a variety of events throughout the academic year.

The Club is run by a committee, made up of Old Savilians, former staff and supported by the Head and the School Development Office.

John Glover retires from the OS Club Council The Club would like to extend their thanks to long standing member of the Club, John Glover, who has stepped down as a Council member after many years of service.

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OS CLUB

ROGER ACKROYD President of the Old Savilians’ Club (OS 1982)

Hello everyone and welcome to this latest edition of ‘The Old Savilian’ It has been an excellent year for the Old Savilians’ Club.

We have had a number of very successful events. During the Autumn term, we had three dinners. Back in September, the London Dinner was held at the RAF Club, which attracted a good number of people living in the South of the country, as well as a number travelling down from Wakefield. In late November, we held an intimate dinner at the Marriott Hotel in Durham, which was attended by people from all over the North. The Annual Dinner in QE Hall was a highly successful event, with a much improved attendance over previous years.

Finally, the Cambridge Dinner was held in May. We were blessed with lovely weather, allowing us to hold a drinks reception in the College grounds, before retiring inside to eat.

In November, it was my great pleasure and honour to attend and read at the Founders’ Day service in the Cathedral on behalf of the Club. As ever, this was a very moving and inspiring event.

As most of you will know, the School is going through seismic changes at the moment, with the merger of all the schools into the new Queen Elizabeth’s School, Wakefield due to take place next September. This has profound implications for the Old Savilians’ Club. Much of our time in Council meetings has been taken up with discussing what exactly will happen.

We have also held a number of joint meetings with representatives from the Girls High School. I would like to thank Sam Butterworth for all his efforts in pulling things together for these meetings.

After much debate, we have decided that the Old Savilians’ Club, the Old Girls’ Association and the equivalent organisation for future school leavers will all be merged into one association, with the likely name of the Wakefield Savilians. This name has been chosen to try to represent everyone as fully as possible. We will still be able to hold Old Savilians’ events, as will the Old Girls Association, but under the auspices of the new umbrella organisation.

Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all my colleagues on the Old Savilians’ Council, the Head, Dr Richard Brookes, and Abi Cattley and Lizzie White in the School Development Office for all their efforts and help with organising the events and for making my life as President such a pleasure.

Best wishes,

Roger Ackroyd

roger Ackroyd (OS 1982) President, Old Savilians’ Club

www.qegsonline.org.uk 5

Welcome to the

Class of 2025 our newest Old Savilians!

As you look forward to life beyond QEGS, we hope that you will remember your time here fondly and come back to visit us often!

You are always welcome.

Remember, too, the help that you have received from your fellow Old Savilians, perhaps through the Made in QEGS Mentoring or QEGSTV, and when the time is right, please consider volunteering to give back your time to our careers initiatives.

YOU’rE ALWAYS WELCOME BACK!

Leavers Breakfast

Head boys team

Mrs Fitzsimons with Class 13AJF

Leavers football match

Mr Everett with Class 13RTE

Mr Higgins with Class 13DJH

Presenting Ties

Mr Leask with Class 13OL

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CLASS OF 2025 Christopher Adamou Ibrahim Aftab Haider Ali Edward Jnr Asomani Jack Bailey Lance Barker Seth Barrett James Beech Xander Beere Morgan Bennett Daniel Bjelk Ben Blanchard Harvey Bolton Hassan Bukhari Connor Dale Freddie Davies Ayden Deacon Michael Dube Ashton Edge Nick Fish Will Fletcher Oliver Ford Will Garside James Green Josh Green, Ben Greenwood Haris Hashmi Ahmed Hassanein Sam Haywood Rufus Helm Oli Hobbs Ben Hutton Akondu Iyoko Jason Kamposioras Christian Kay Fergus Kelly Faaris Khan Chris King Dan Lawrence Xander Leighton Joshua Liwonde Chester Lomas Sam Mackenzie Peter Maher Imnan Malik Shivansh Mani Harrison Marley

Dom Marsden Felix Milner-Moore Hammad Mobeen Ollie Mountain Abdul Muhammad Bhargav Myneni Haris Ng Felix Oakes Jack Ounsley Aryan Patel Pip Poulton-Haselier Daniel Preston Louis Price Zayn Rafiq Omeio Rahman James Raw Jamie Redgwick Tom Reid Daniel Robinson Aidan Ross Georgii Rozentsvit Charlie Rust William Ryan Kieran Sak Oliver Sharp Manveer Singh Taran Singh Liam Smiljanic Fin Smith Isaac Smith Oscar Smith Jacob Story Theo Stratford Joe Swap Jenson Tai Oliver Taylor Benedict Tetteh Lathusan Thayakaran Charlie Trueman Henry Turner Harrison Vincent Max Willetts George Willis-Howarth Josh Wood Jacob Wright Yaameen Zafar

Head Boy Review 2025 It has been an honour and a privilege to be able to represent QEGS as Head Boy this year, and after 14 years at this school, it has allowed me to give back to the community that has been there for me for so many years, and hopefully many more to come.

This year has possibly seen the start of the biggest change the school has seen in its 434 years of history, with the announcement of the move towards co-education coming while I have been Head Boy. Although I am hopeful for the future of our foundation and the opportunities that the new form of the school can bring I never felt from a student side that this was the ideal situation, but in realising this, and that boys can be very hard to please, I knew that it fell to me to get as many voices heard as possible so we could improve the school that we are so passionate about. Myself, alongside the Head Girl Ellie Tingle, organised forms to be sent out to each year group where they could detail their desires for the new school. Alongside establishing tangible statistics for which we could and did present to the head and governors about what people care about and want to see maintained.

Following this, I gave assemblies to every single year group, detailing our findings, but also to ensure that everyone was aware of the direction the school was taking and why. As a final action, cross-foundational committees were also set up and subsequently chaired by the Head on a variety of topics such as uniform, behaviour, etc. From my perspective, I felt that my job in all of this was not to act on my self-interests but rather to enable everyone to have their voices heard.

themselves well throughout the season and got to the Championship North final, narrowly losing to Manchester Grammar but beating Sedbergh 6-0 on the way!

There were many other events taking place within the school which were only able to happen due to the commitment from the Head Boy team (Faaris, Fergus, Imnan and Akondu) as well as the wider prefect team who, as a whole, embodied what it means to be QEGS Boys. So I would like to thank them for their time and for also making this year easier and more enjoyable. It has been an honour to work alongside you all. I would also like to explicitly thank: Dr Brookes, Mr Jones, Mr Burrows, Mr and Mrs Palin, who have guided me through my time as head boy. I could have made this article ten times over about thanking all of those who have helped me during my time here, and hundreds of times over trying to portray the thanks of all those in my year (and if it weren’t for my A-levels I’d be more happy to do so) but I think that in itself shows, that at least in my opinion, that our school is truly special in a way that I feel we are all proud of and will miss as we move into the next chapters of our lives.

Finally, I would like to personally congratulate Henry Millican for being selected as the Head Boy for the 2025/26 academic year, and the advice that I’ve given him is to treat life like a garden because you get out what you put in, and that is optimised by the role of Head Boy.

Chester Lomas (OS 2025)

Now, alongside the announcement of the merger, there was still a lot going on in school, especially in terms of sport. There was the creation of the first QEGS senior football team, which, despite let’s say an underperformance in some of their games, was a great success. Luckily, the better sport (Rugby) had an even more successful season, with great performances throughout culminating in a trip to Twickenham. Although it didn't end how we would have wanted, I feel the whole team, and those who travelled down to watch, did QEGS as a whole proud with their effort and determination on and off the pitch.

I probably should also mention (so I don’t get it in the neck for forgetting about them) that the Hockey squad represented Chester Lomas

Mr Shearer with Class 13LAS

Leavers football match

Mrs Williams with Class 13 LAW

www.qegsonline.org.uk 7

SCHOOL NEWS Transformation update:

From Royal Charter to Diamond Future

WGHS Through the Benson Gate

In September 2024 Wakefield Grammar School Foundation announced an exciting step forward towards the future for education in Wakefield. From September 2026, Queen Elizabeth Grammar School, Wakefield Girls’ High School, and Wakefield Grammar Pre-Preparatory School will come together to form Queen Elizabeth’s School, Wakefield; a single, co-educational Diamond Model school for pupils aged 3 to 18.

As many of you are aware, this decision followed months of careful consideration, due diligence and collaboration by the governors and senior leadership teams. This forward-thinking model combines the best of co-educational learning environments during the early and later stages of school life, and single-sex academic teaching between the ages of 11 and 16. This approach delivers a balanced, inclusive, and academically rigorous environment that nurtures every child’s potential.

Since that announcement, our journey towards 2026 continues to progress. We have been meeting with current pupils to seek feedback on topics like sports, uniform, school values, and issues around the environment, equality and

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QEGS Main Building in Spring

inclusion – all of which we know are really important for them.

Alongside this, we have been working with pupils, staff, teachers, parents and alumni from all our schools to help build a picture of the school history and traditions important to them.

Our rich history stretches through four and a half centuries of spirited tradition and quietly bold innovation. As we prepare to explore the next chapter, together, as Queen Elizabeth’s, we do so with gratitude for the visionaries who came before us, pride for the scholars who walk our grounds today, and confidence that the best pages of our history are still to be penned.

This is truly an exciting time for our school community.

Every decision we are making is focused on enhancing our student's educational experience and preparing them for future success.Thank you for your continued support as we move forward together.

Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions by emailing wayahead@wgsf.net

SCHOOL NEWS

Clayton update We are pleased to be able to share with our Old Savilians an update regarding the former Clayton Hospital site.

The Foundation purchased the derelict site in 2018, before the financial uncertainties arising firstly from Covid and more recently the imposition of VAT on School - a time that feels very different from now.

Following extensive and protracted discussions with planners, the Foundation was able to demolish the majority of the mid-century buildings on the site leaving the spectacular but dilapidated Pavilion building as the site’s key feature. The Pavilion building was in a very poor state of repair, and completely inaccessible due to health and safety concerns. The structural integrity of the walls and the stability of the roof were a particular concern.

Following a raft of technical design work and many more planning conversations, we have now been able to safeguard and protect the Pavilion building for the future.

The building has been made structurally sound through the installation of an internal steel frame, and completely reroofed in line with conservation standards. When viewed from the front of the Pavilion building, its beauty, grandeur and potential are now revealed, as you can see in the accompanying image. The remaining rear wall of the building was an internal hospital wall and, as such, needs further protection from the elements. Therefore, the building will be wrapped to provide protection and also a more attractive outlook until future plans are developed.

We offer our thanks to the many contractors who have worked so hard with us to complete these works. And we offer thanks, too, to those parents, alumni and other Friends of the Foundation who have supported the Clayton project so far.

Thanks to further support of an alumnus, and through judicious use of our investments, we are now able to take the next step on our journey - transformation of the grounds.

Clayton is a fantastic ‘bridge’ between the current WGHS and QEGS sites. The grounds will be landscaped to provide a secure pathway for our students and staff to travel between what will become the Senior and Preparatory sites of Queen Elizabeth’s School. The pathway will connect Northgate to Wentworth Street and will be surrounded by landscaped areas of grass and wild meadow planting. We will also be allowed to have some limited parking that will help to ease school parking safety concerns.

We will also be working on the boundary wall and fencing.

Works will restore much of the stone boundary walls and these will be topped with railings in keeping with the area.

In areas where there is no wall to restore we will provide a secure boundary to protect our students as they use the grounds. We continue to work closely with Wakefield planning to ensure that the boundary walls meet the high standards of our conservation area, navigate the many protected trees (and their roots) and meet public highway requirements.

Work has commenced and is anticipated to be concluded in late 2025. We look forward to sharing further details of the plans and progress updates on the works in due course. And we look forward to welcoming you onsite in person, when you will be able to see for yourself the Clayton Pavilion standing over the landscaped and wild meadow grounds.

Martin Shevill, BEd MSc FCCT Chair of Governors

www.qegsonline.org.uk 9

SCHOOL NEWS

Farewell to Jim Palin The end of the winter term saw QEGS bid farewell to Mr. Jim Palin, our Deputy Headmaster for nearly 12 incredible years.

Throughout his time with us, Mr. Palin was a steadfast leader of our pastoral and safeguarding teams, forming deep connections with both staff and students.

It’s these relationships with our pupils that he will be most fondly remembered for—whether on school trips (behind the grill on fishing trips), at concerts, Cathedral visits, sports tours, or simply sharing a conversation in his office.

His presence and dedication will truly be missed. We wish Mr. Palin all the best in his future endeavours and thank him for everything he has done during his time.

You can read his farewell to pupils below:

And so I find myself writing the piece that I never thought I would write, though I suppose common sense tells me it was always coming, one day! Today will be my last day as Deputy Headmaster at QEGS, and I awoke this morning with a bizarre mix of feelings, ranging from excitement to a profound sense of fear of not being able to keep my emotions in check. In some ways, it feels a bit like a “first day”, with the associated nerves, and as I write this now, I still have the final assembly to face and the staff to address at the end of the day.

I found myself reflecting on all of the boys that I have admitted to the school over the years, as part of the entrance exam process, and some of the things I typically say to them. Many of those boys, and indeed parents, will know that I often talk about the huge importance of becoming a part of somewhere that has “history”, and I often took the time to show the boys how the stone in the main corridors outside reception has been worn away by millions of footsteps over the years, and how, when my name was added to the honours boards there, I invited my own parents in to come and see it.

My role for the majority of my time at the school, leading the pastoral and safeguarding teams, has never been about “me” - I am simply a cog in a much bigger operation, and for a very small slice of the hundreds of years that the school has operated. I never, ever saw myself in a role like this, and have regularly had to pinch myself as I drove on to this fantastic site, to remind myself it was real. Becoming Deputy Headmaster at QEGS sits as one of the three proudest moments in my life, the others being marrying my wife Cathy and becoming a father to my daughter Lauren.

I have so many fond memories of this school, and it has become, and will remain, a huge part of my life. There have been so many laughs, in and out of school, and it remains the case that the boys here continue to make me laugh, every day, often at times when other staff would prefer that I didn’t! I will never forget the Christmas Day that a huge tractor pulled up outside my house, with a number of old boys inside who had called in for “a beer”, the countless hours behind the griddle on the fishing trips, various tours with various rugby teams, trips to Twickenham and a range of other national and regional sports finals, concerts and Cathedral visits. But most of all, I will

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remember the time I have spent outside, during QED sessions and clubs, sharing my own hobbies and interests with countless boys over the years. I was lucky to grow up in a family that wanted me to “do things” and taught me to love the countryside, and it was that time that my parents and grandparents spent with me that has shaped my life today.

I hope, in my own very small way, that I too will have inspired the odd boy to take up a new hobby or interest as I firmly believe that for young men today, having a hobby or interest that you love to do, and perhaps that you do with others, is one of the single greatest safety nets for adolescence that there is.

I think it was Harold Wilson who said “he who rejects change is the architect of decay. The only human institution that rejects change is the cemetery”. I am now approaching a time of change in my life, and at the same time, QEGS also faces change. It is easy to worry about these changes, and to focus on the fear or anxiety, but history, in fact well over 400 years of it, would suggest that the school, despite many challenges over the years, will continue to go from strength to strength, and rather than worry, I think parents and boys can be excited about what the future holds. For me, perhaps unsurprisingly, I am hoping that a greater proportion of my time will be outside, and I look forward to returning to the many hobbies that time has not really allowed me to make the most of.

As I always have done, I wanted to take this last opportunity to wish all of you the very best for the holiday period, and I hope that for many of you, as it does for me, it provides the time to catch up with family that you may not see as often as you would like. I also hope that, amidst the commercial madness of the festive break, there is a little time for you, individually, to take a step back and do something that you enjoy. I also wanted to say a huge thank you, to all of the parents and boys, for the kindness, support and warmth that you have shown me over my time here. This was always, is now and always will be a very special place, where the relationships and bonds formed will remain with you for life as I know that they will for me.

“Tight lines”

Mr Jim Palin Deputy Head

SCHOOL NEWS

Staff farewells QEGS This year we say goodbye to...

Cathy and Jim

Gavin Chatterton Head of Economics

Farewell to David Benn David - Dave - Benn joined us in 1986 after receiving his job offer on the evening of the day of his interview. He was due to go for an interview at Bradford Grammar school the next day, but thankfully QEGS got him first and the rest was history! We nearly lost him to another country in 2005 when he spent a year on sabbatical in New Zealand, but the draw of his beloved Yorkshire was too strong and he decided not to emigrate there their loss was our gain.

Dave worked with QEGS legend John Preston (Head of DT at the time) to introduce GCSE Systems and Control Technology, and has guided generations of QEGS boys through the design and manufacture of hundreds of projects.

However, he is probably best known as a committed pastoral leader, most recently as Head of Key Stage 4. He worked tirelessly to lead the boys in his care, encouraging them to be the best versions of themselves, with a little help from Dolly Parton and Bradley Wiggins along the way!

His contribution to school sport has been immense - coaching the U14s rugby team for 8 years with Mr Preston, and 12 years with Mr Fitzsimons. ‘Benn & Fitzy’s black and gold army’ won several Yorkshire Cups and many a sevens tournament (the victories at Bradford Grammar school were particularly sweet!) before he switched to U12s with Mr Barker.

Embracing the ethos of QED from its very beginning, legions of boys have benefitted from Dave sharing and teaching them about his twin passions of Fishing and Mountain Biking, and he has also been a leader of the successful school Fishing Trip for most of his time at school.

Dave will be moving into a part-time role as a DT technician in one of the big academies in Leeds, working alongside his daughter Kate, so combining his love of DT with more time for family and friends.

Mike Beresford Physics Teacher

Faye Smith History Teacher

Neil Rhodes Head of Geography

William Stiff Biology Teacher

Robert Westerdale French and Spanish Teacher

Chris Cheffins Junior School Teacher

Debbie Rogers Junior Section Teacher

Anne Taylor Science Technician

Sharon Thompson Junior Section Teaching Assistant

Philip Cresswell School Gardner

Michael Best Joiner

John Lister Foundation Technical Director

Dave Wilson Digital Services

George Clay Digital Services

After 39 years of devoted teaching at QEGS, we will miss his invaluable contributions and we wish him every success.

www.qegsonline.org.uk 11

EVENTS

Looking back...

OLD SAVILIANS’ ANNUAL DINNER at QE Hall December 2024

JOINT BUSINESS NETWORKING in London November 2024 It was wonderful to see Old Savilians and Old Girls from across a range of years get together to grow their personal and professional networks. Huge thanks to Serenity Morley (OG 97), Global Chief Operating Officer for Mount Street Group, for hosting the event.

Our flagship event returned to QE Hall on Friday 20 December - it was another memorable evening!

OLD SAVILIANS’ NORTHERN DINNER in Durham November 2024 The Northern dinner returned this year in Durham, taking place at the Marriott Hotel.

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OLD SAVILIANS’ CAMBRIDGE DINNER at Christ’s College Cambridge May 2025

OLD SAVILIANS’ LONDON DINNER at The RAF Club September 2024 We started our year with the annual London dinner which took place at the RAF Club.

SEASONAL DRINKS at Jubilee Hall November 24th

The 2025 Cambridge Dinner took place on Saturday 16 May at Christ’s College, Cambridge. Starting with drinks in the garden before retiring to the Old Combination Room, for an evening of conversation and connection in a historic setting.

It was great to welcome Old Savs, Old Girls and our wider community to mark the start of the Festive Season.

These photos act as a reminder of the happy times of reminiscing and catching up with old friends over a drink or two

To see all the photos please visit https://qegsonline.org.uk/Qphotoboards or scan this code. www.qegsonline.org.uk 13

GIVING BACK

Pathways to Oxbridge evening

Ben Rose, Rob Tingle and Connor Singleton

InsPIrIng Futures:

How Alumni help students thrive Andy Pesterfield Head of Careers and Enterprise As you will know from your own experience, preparing students for life beyond the classroom is at the heart of what we do at QEGS. The Careers Department plays a pivotal role in this by helping students explore their skills, discover their interests, and begin to understand how these attributes, alongside the subjects they study, relate to future career pathways.

Our approach begins early, all the way down in the foundation years at pre-prep where group workshops and talks introduce students to the wide range of possibilities that their future careers may embrace. Moving on through junior section and the lower years of senior section we encourage students to reflect on their strengths and ambitions. Through interactive sessions and career exploration activities, we help pupils make informed decisions about their education and potential futures. As students progress, we introduce them to the world of work through employer visits, career insight events, and later, formal work experience placements. These opportunities are not only informative but often transformative, broadening horizons and sparking aspirations that might otherwise remain undiscovered.

A key part of our success in delivering this programme is the generous support of our alumni. Over the years we have seen a large number of former students return to share their journeys and help current pupils to see the real-world possibilities ahead of them. From engineers to entrepreneurs, doctors to designers, our alumni offer personal insights into the paths they took—highlighting both the challenges and

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Jude McCann

the triumphs along the way. These stories bring authenticity and relatability to the careers curriculum that no textbook or website can match.

A more recent development has seen us welcoming alumni who have taken on mentoring roles with our Sixth Form students. These small group and one-to-one relationships provide invaluable guidance and encouragement as students consider university courses, apprenticeships, or stepping straight into employment. The wisdom and real-life experience mentors bring often become a cornerstone of a student's post-school decision-making process.

We are always looking to grow this network of support. If you’re an alum who feels they could help the next generation of students navigate their future, we’d love to hear from you.

There are many ways to get involved, including: n n

Speaking at assemblies or career days about your professional journey Offering workplace visits or shadowing opportunities for students

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Mentoring a Sixth Former who is interested in your field

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Providing work experience placements or internships

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Participating in Q&A panels or virtual career sessions

Whether you have an hour to spare or can offer something more long-term, your experience could make a lasting impact on a young person’s life.

our huge thanks go to: Adrian Spawforth Alex Bluett Alisdair Felstead Alistair Morris Andrew McWilliams Andrew Widdowson Arthur Broadbent Ben Rose Billy Brand Charlie Rushfirth Chris Cutt Chris Kurwie Connor Singleton Daniel Baker David May David Turner David Webb Faiq Aziz Harrison Pye Harry Graham Hiten Patel Ian Minards Jack Sedgwick James Bowers James Broadbent James Robinson James Watson Jeremy Stern Joe Morton Joe Morton Jonathan Elliott Jonathan Mellor Joshua Charalambous Laurence Hopkinson Matt Wass Matthew Price Max Ludewig Muhammed Hussein Patel Myles Chubb Neal Rigby Nick Padgett Paul Jones Paul Sykes Richard Sutcliffe Richard Taylor Rob Tingle Roger Ackroyd Simon Maddocks Tom Buck

#MADeInQegs Mentor scheMe: CoNNECtiNg StuDENtS witH ExpEriENCE

Alastair Morris

Ian Minards

Ian Minards

Alastair Morris

Alisdair Felstead

Launched in 2021, the #MadeinQEGS Mentor Scheme connects QEGS alumni with Sixth Form students, helping prepare them for life beyond school. The scheme aims to build students’ confidence and career readiness, supported by the strong QEGS community.

With the job market more competitive than ever, the guidance of experienced mentors is invaluable. Whether it’s a one-off conversation, regular meetings, or hands-on work shadowing, mentor-mentee relationships are flexible and shaped around what works best for each pair. Meetings can take place online or in person, and we always welcome Old Savilians back to QEGS. Nick Padgett

Now in its fourth year, the scheme continues to thrive with over 140 Old Savilians volunteering to Mentor. In 2025, 34 Old Savilians mentored Year 12 students – a testament to the strength of the QEGS community and the willingness of alumni to give back.

We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all our mentors who have so generously offered their time, knowledge, and support. Your contribution is helping shape the futures of the next generation of QEGS pupils. A special thank you goes to those mentors who also supported early Oxbridge interview practice and delivered lunchtime careers talks, your additional input has been invaluable and deeply appreciated.

If you are an Old Savilian willing to share your experience, we would love to hear from you.

Max Ludewig

To sign up as a Mentor, please email lwhite@wgsf.net.

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Qegs and Qegs rugby gave us all so much. thank you Qegs

OS NEWS

A Year of rugby...

cLAss oF 64

There were no age restrictions for playing 1st XV rugby.

Our flying winger and vice captain, John Way, was in his 4th season. I don’t think it would be allowed now.

the 64/65 season and our reunions

Sadly we had a tragic accident pre Christmas against Mount St Mary’s. Our prop, Pat Faragher was in his first season as a 15 year old. He was an outstanding all round sportsman being in the rugby, basketball, swimming and athletics teams. He piled into a ruck and didn’t get up. He had broken his spinal chord and henceforth was paraplegic. I can’t begin to tell you how heartbreaking it was for all of us, even to this day, and our reunion dinner toast of “absent friends” is always particularly poignant.

We celebrated this anniversary on Saturday 15 March with a Festival of Rugby, where Old Savs from across the years took to the field in competitive yet good-spirited matches. This was followed by a special gathering in the QE Hall, where guests reflected on the incredible history of the sport at QEGS – hosted by rugby legends Mr Barker and Mr Cholewa. The event brought together Old Savilians, parents, staff, current pupils, and the wider QEGS community for a day filled with sporting excellence, camaraderie, and nostalgia.

In the same week, we celebrated as the 1st XV went to Twickenham for the Continental Tyres National Schools Cup Final and at the start of the year we also welcomed back the Class of ‘64 1st XV back to QEGS to celebrate an incredible 60 years since their graduation.

A few of us from the 1st XV of 64/65 had kept in touch over the years and circa 40 years after leaving school, one of our number suggested that we ought to organise a reunion. I took on the job and for that first reunion in 2004 there were just 8 of us..”we few we happy few” as someone said!

The big day followed a regular pattern. Meet at the school on a Saturday morning, a tour of new facilities, which we all envied, lunch in the Cloisters, watch the 1st XV, into the College for a pint or two then out to dinner, pretending we were still 18. We continued to meet every 5 years until we had tracked down more of the team and 13 of us have met at recent reunions.

Class of 64

M

Here, Mike Prentice (OS 1965) shares his memories from these three celebrations across the year.

Certain aspects of rugby were very different. Until our penultimate season it was possible to kick directly into touch and then have the benefit of a throw in to the lineout. This resulted in the spectacle of 111 lineouts in a Wales/Scotland fixture. Lineout ik lifting was not permitted. It was e Pr en mayhem. In our last season together, tice , Cla ss of 64 only one of the boys made it into the Yorks/Wales schools fixture. I went to Otley to watch and Wales had a very good scrum half. Gareth Edwards.You may have heard of him. Another major difference was that we never used the gym. We were tiny compared to modern school teams. At the 2019 reunion we were in the library being shown a wonderful collection of school sports photos and reports covering our time at school. We were accompanied

by Max Wotten who was the 1st XV captain that year. As we were talking he was scanning the room looking puzzled. Max is a big lad. A prop forward. He asked me where our props were. I pointed them out and he said “Oh, I thought they were small wingers who had gone to seed”. Max came along especially to see us at the 2024 reunion. Thanks Max.

The 2024/25 year saw a remarkable milestone in QEGS history – 150 years since our first ever rugby match took place in November 1874 against Leeds St. Johns.

The following Thursday we were scheduled to play the Old Savs. On the day, the ground was frozen hard and it was so foggy that it was not possible to see the goal posts when taking conversions. It was In September last year, 2 travelled from Canada decided that it would be good for us to Here we are in 2019 with Max Wotten and 1 from each of Italy, Cambodia and Florida. as our newly appointed skipper. play. Touch judges acted as markers when Old boys even made it from the outer regions of kicks were taken. Our goalkicker, Chris Alverthorpe, Crofton and Ackworth. Unfortunately Toone, who had a distinguished rugby career with Sale, Cheshire at most of our reunions we haven’t had a QEGS win but this and NW Counties, playing against all the major touring teams, year they delivered a resounding victory against Durham. converted every kick without seeing the posts.

Thanks boys.

We were a modest team by some QEGS standards. However, in the Savilian match report vs Worksop, we were described as having played “the finest game of attacking rugby since the war”. One wonders which war? If our esteemed coaches in 64/65(Staziker and Chapman) had announced at training that a team from 1904 were coming to watch us, we would have thought that they had taken an early lunch in the College.

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Pat’s injury cast a massive cloud over the rest of the season as you can imagine. He lived wheelchair bound for another 20 years or so.

Last year’s reunion was our last. Tempus fugit and all that.

Some of the lads have made heroic efforts to make it and some have not been in great health since. Still, 60 years is not bad. Well done all.

A Day out at twickenham and put in a massive defensive stint. But it was a team effort, stirred on by the never to be forgotten chant from the QEGS supporters, pointing to Harrow and chanting “Who are you, who are you?”

I hope that most of you know that the current 1st XV reached the final of the Schools U18 knock out cup in April this year.

The same age group team had played in the U15 final at Twickenham 3 years earlier. This year’s semi final had been streamed and it was an exciting, spirited performance that produced a place in the final with a last minute score.

Pacemakers were doing a storming job around the globe as the 64/65 boys logged in.

I had the privilege of meeting with and chatting to some of the team members, including Jack, pre match. They were surprisingly calm! What a disappointment on the day. But what an experience, what a performance. Well done boys.

An exceptional team. You can be very proud of yourselves and don’t forget, if the 64/65 team can stick together over the years, you can.

I couldn’t miss the final. It was a great day out and match against Harrow. As the Harrow team took to the pitch it was clear that it would be a tough afternoon for the boys. Harrow chased into the lead through two long distant mauls. Jack Bailey, who as captain, had a storming game, scored 2 tries

150 years of rugby celebration Back up to Yorkshire for the 150 years of rugby celebration.

I have to say that the whole thing was superbly organised.

Thanks to all of you which made it such a special day.

Before the matches started I had the chance to chat with Jack Bailey again. I mentioned earlier the difference in physicality from 64/65 to now. Jack and I played in the same position. As I looked up at him, I was mightily relieved I never had to oppose him.

The standard of rugby played was excellent from scratch teams with thankfully no significant injuries but I’m sure there were some old bones creaking the following morning.

The school hall was the venue for a great afternoon.

Pies, mushy peas and the bar set us up for an afternoon of entertainment. It was lovely to catch up with Trevor Barker and John Chowela who acted as hosts to a panel of old boys covering their rugby experiences at school and afterwards. Trev and John were made for it. In their element!

Thanks to you both for the support, development and encouragement to generations of rugby talent.

The best part of the afternoon was supporting England beating Wales, shown on the big screen. A great afternoon again superbly organised.

After all that, I retired to my hotel room after having travelled from Devon to Richmond, Twickenham the next day, up to Wakefield, 150 year celebrations then back to Devon.

I wouldn’t have missed it for anything.

150 years of rugby

“

I was very pleased to see that school, and in the main Abi, Liz and particularly Ian were keen to celebrate 150 years of QEGS rugby. Ian has been extremely busy over the last year culminating in another trip to Twickenham but was instrumental and only too willing to help organise a brilliant day. It was great to see old boys support and get involved in the rugby and so good to share memories with many of the QEGS Rugby family.

It was a privilege to play a part and once again spend time with some QEGS legends in the day and on stage with John Chol!

It was a great day and a big thank you to all involved.

Hopefully, many Old Savs will make, what will probably be, the last official Old Savs Dinner this December as the school then moves into a new era under a new name!

trevor Barker

“

”

For me the day was not only about celebrating our Rugby heritage, which is very special of course, but it was about seeing the many old boys who made a big effort to come back and being able to make contact with them again. To hear of how they were doing, their work, their families etc. was a real treat and that our school played a big part in positively getting them on their way. The day flew by and I personally missed so many people I really wanted to talk to and that was a little upsetting.

However I hope many stay more connected now, with school, and will consider coming to the Dinners we have for former students. I thought the standard of Rugby on display was of a high standard and the core skills learned were still there and on show.and Sportsmanship and Bon Ami was seen in abundance.

A great day which was enjoyed by all.

Trev and John

John Cholewa

”

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OS NEWS

the Story of Christmas raises £1 million organised by Marc Corbett-weaver (2003) Founded in 1978, The Story of Christmas (www.socappeal.com) is Real Estate’s Christmas Charity Event. It takes place each December at St George’s Hanover Square in London’s Mayfair in the form of a star-studded carol service, followed by a glittering champagne reception and charity auction. The evening is supported by around 100 corporate sponsors - largely from property, construction and their associated industries. 550 guests attend.

Marc Corbett-Weaver (OS 2003) was initially invited to perform at the event as a pianist in 2004, when he met some of those closely involved including Dame Judi Dench, Aled Jones, Ian Hislop and the principal organisers. Soon after, he started organising concerts to support the charity and launched an orchestra too. When the main organiser became unwell in 2009, Marc stepped it at a week’s notice to ensure the show could go on and raised £100,000. Subsequently he was invited to become the charity’s Artistic Director & CEO - a role he combines with his solo performing and concert commitments. Each year, Marc and his colleagues have worked tirelessly to develop the event and, in December 2024, The Story of Christmas raised over £1 million for the first time.

Last December’s event starred Rowan Atkinson, Kate Winslet, Benedict Cumberbatch and thirteen other celebrities - and raised £650,000 in sponsorship, £160,000 through the charity’s Ambassadors Programme (for younger supporters who launch projects), £186,000 through auctions on the night and £35,000 through other initiatives. The funds are used to finance capital projects benefitting homelessness, disabled and disadvantaged children around the UK.

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Barney Hagan (oS 2013) I look back with great fondness on my time at QEGS, which I attended from 2006-13. Whilst all the teaching staff were supportive, I was particularly inspired by Dr Winborn and Mr Rees due to their passion and enthusiasm for their subjects and commitment to helping me reach my potential.

I had developed an interest in American history even before I started at QEGS, and whilst an undergraduate at King’s College London I decided to pursue it further. I applied and was accepted to study for my PhD (or DPhil, as they call it, for some reason) at St Hugh’s College, Oxford, in 2020.

My research focuses on the Mexican border town of Matamoros during the American Civil War era (184876). Matamoros was the site of numerous international incidents during this period: before the Civil War, American and Mexican adventurers known as filibusters attempted to create their own nations; the Confederacy shipped cotton out to the UK in return for arms and ammunition during the Civil War; and afterwards, in contravention of its own government’s policy, the US Army transported guns and men across the border to help the Mexican Liberals defeat their Imperialist opposition. Finally, in 1876, a coup was launched into Mexico from Texas, backed by American money, that put Porfirio Diaz in power in Mexico City, a position he held until 1911.

Studying Matamoros therefore reveals how global a conflict the Civil War was, the effect of the US on Mexican politics (and, to a much lesser extent, vice versa) and the centrality of American commercial freedom to this relationship, all of which is highly relevant to today’s world. I am currently in negotiations with a publisher to transform my dissertation into a book and plan to write another on Diaz’ coup d’etat, which has never been addressed in English before.

Throughout my educational career I have learnt the value of four paradoxical qualities: firstly, being patient enough for things to become apparent or happen for you, but at the same time being impatient enough with your own work to push yourself further; and secondly, passion for a subject, whatever it is, but have also the ability to approach this with a calm, critical detachment. In its emphasis on intellectual rigour and pursuing my ambitions, QEGS helped lay the groundwork for all these things.

Barney Hagan

Sam Shute and oliver ward (oS 2007) Huge congratulations to Sam Shute (OS 07) and Oliver Ward (OS 07) for bringing home the trophy as part of the England 35 Masters Hockey World Cup in South Africa this October!

Sam Shute and Oliver Ward

Simon Chamberlain (oS 1988) Our huge thanks go to Simon Chamberlain (OS 1988) who has recently completed twelve years as a Governor of Wakefield Grammar School Foundation, four years of which he served as Chair. We are grateful to Simon for his guidance and support throughout his tenure.

Simon continues to support the school through his role as Secretary on the Old Savilians Club Council.

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OS NEWS

Joe Barker

Joe Barker

Joe Barker update: Joe Barker (oS 2019) reflects on his rugby career to date After leaving QEGS I played for Leeds Carnegie and Rotherham Titans, and then went on to be Head Coach/player with Rotherham in 2018. I also coached at QEGS for 10 years helping with rugby and all sports. I had some very successful and enjoyable years which built my foundations of coaching and leadership. I got the chance to work with some great people and pupils.

I moved to Hong Kong to play and coach for Kowloon RUFC in 2019. After 2 years I got a job with Hong Kong Rugby professionally as Head Coach of Kowloon RFC and International Coach with HK as Women’s Defence Coach, and then I took up a role as Men’s Attack and Backs Coach.

In 2023 I became Head Coach of the Pathways for Hong Kong China Rugby. That role allowed me to keep playing for Kowloon while stepping back from full-time head coaching duties at the club.

Then, at the end of the 2024 season, something unexpected happened. The Head Coach of the Hong Kong men’s team asked me how long I’d been living and playing in Hong Kong.

I told him it was nearly five years - and that’s when he pointed out I was now eligible to play for HK internationally through residency. This was an incredible experience, and something

20

I never thought would happen, especially with so many changes and my career as a coach going well. From playing for fun to be called up to play on the international stage!

I’ve just had the honour of representing Hong Kong as a player in the Asia Rugby Championship. We beat the UAE, Sri Lanka, and South Korea to qualify for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. I look back on my school life at QEGS and nothing but amazing memories and opportunities. We played every sport we could, all week long. The great thing about QEGS is the boys compete well above our weight in all sports (especially rugby!), and in true Wakey style get stuck in and show these bigger schools some real toughness!

I was lucky enough to have my Dad, Trevor Barker, as Director of Sport throughout my time at QEGS. There couldn’t be anybody better to learn from and be inspired by during my time as a pupil, but I also saw how he was a great leader to his staff when I worked as a Coach. Alongside him he had great people who instilled what QEGS is all about. He, along with the wider sports staff at QEGS, instilled the values that have stayed with me throughout my rugby career.

Meteorite Donation We were delighted to receive a donation of a meteorite from David Baker (OS 1978). David kindly shared the following information about this generous gift to the school. Thank you David for a donation which is literally out of this world!

Lieutenant Andrew Mason (oS 2005) Congratulations to Old Boy Andrew Mason, now Lieutenant Andrew Mason following his recent passing out parade at Sandhurst.

Andrew is Head of Design and Technology at Taunton School, and Army Air Corps Reserve Officer.

This meteorite specimen is from the famous Canyon Diablo meteorite that fell 50,000 years ago (during the Pleistocene) in what is now Arizona. The impactor is believed to be a fragment of the core of an ancient asteroid destroyed in a cataclysmic event early in the history of the solar system.

Two aspects may be of particular interest: Firstly, the origin of the meteorite and the dynamics and effects of the impact itself. The large mass of the impactor (around 3x108 kg — equivalent to the mass of 3 or 4 aircraft carriers) and high impact velocity (~4 1 km/s) resulted in a large release of energy _ equivalent to the detonation of several megatons of TNT. Students can readily estimate the kinetic energy at impact for themselves. The crater itself is a little over 1 km in diameter but the effects of the impact would have been significant over thousands of square kilometers. More details are included in the documentation as well as some ‘artist’s impressions’ comparing the size of the impactor to the QEGS playground and the size of the crater to the City of Wakefield.

Secondly, the provenance of the iron of which the meteorite is largely composed. Students may be aware that after the Big Bang the universe had an elemental composition of mostly H and He. They may also be familiar with the concept of stellar nucleosynthesis and understand that our sun ‘burns’ H to form He. They may be interested to learn that He can also undergo fusion to produce C, and so on, hopping down through the periodic table (fusing He nuclei) until Fe is produced. The binding energy of the Fe nucleus is so large that nuclear fusion effectively shuts down (exothermic nuclear reactions cease). This is known as the ‘iron catastrophe’.

In massive stars the gas pressure of the star is unable to balance the force of gravity and the star collapses inwards before rebounding in a supernova explosion.

Thus the formation of Fe presages the death of a star.

David Baker (oS 1978)

Old Boy Lieutenant Andrew Mason and dad Pete Mason at Sandhurst passing out parade.

Karen Cousins Award Congratulations to former QEGS Junior Music Teacher Karen Cousins who was presented with an Honorary Life Membership at Huddersfield Mrs Sunderland Festival in recognition of her 25 years’ service to the Festival, latterly as ViceChair. She becomes only the seventh living person to be awarded this.

Huddersfield Mrs Sunderland Festival is one of the largest festivals in the country, attracting well over 5000 performers during its eleven day event in Huddersfield Town Hall with many hundreds more in audiences. Instrumental, vocal, choirs, musical theatre, speech and drama classes for all ages and abilities are complemented by a series of workshops for adult singers, special needs schools, key stage two schools, music for the brain and toddler workshops.

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OS NEWS

then and now: A Foundation in wakefield 10 years on...

Ten years ago, Old Savs and Old Girls generously shared their stories as part of our A Foundation in Wakefield project, helping us celebrate the achievements of our former pupils and to inspire the next generation.

Now, as we approach the ten-year anniversary of the book’s release, we are delighted to share with you some updates from those who starred in the original publication on what the past decade has brought. Our thanks go to those who have shared these updates, we look forward to seeing what the next 10 years brings!

Nick thornton (oS 2006) Vice president of Sales, rolls-royce Nicholas left Wakefield after completing his A tHEN Levels to read Aeronautical Engineering at 2015 Imperial College, London. While studying for his Masters Degree, he undertook a three month internship at Rolls Royce, working on the development of the JSF F-35 Aircraft.

Following university, he took a gap year where he volunteered on a ten week programme in the Borneo Rainforest, employing his practical engineering skills. He also travelled Australia and New Zealand and worked as a Transport Planner, managing the operational and commercial challenges of the role.

In 2011 he re-joined Rolls Royce on their Engineering Leadership Graduate Scheme. Since then he has worked in their Defence, Civil and Marine sectors, working in engineering design and project management roles. In 2014 he completed a Post Graduate Certificate in Aerospace Science from the University of the West of England.

He is now Engineering Programme Manager working to deliver the next generation of Trent Civil Airline Engines for Airbus and Boeing.

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Since the last update, Nick has stayed at RollsNow Royce and developed both within engineering; 2025 becoming a chartered engineer with the Royal Aeronautical Society and outside engineering; taking on roles in Programme Management and Marketing.

In his programme management role he leads a team of 80 engineers and project managers to deliver upgrades to the latest generation of Rolls-Royce aircraft engines. Moving into marketing, he leads a team of market analysts using machine learning to forecast the aviation market and Rolls-Royce’s financial recovery from the COVID pandemic.

In his current role, he is Vice President of Sales - selling the latest generation of aircraft engines and is lucky enough to travel the globe meeting with the biggest airlines and aircraft manufacturers in the industry.

Nick lives in Derbyshire with his wife Amy (née Wray, class of 2006) who is currently the Headteacher at a Private Boarding school. They live on-site at the school with their 2 children; Harry 5 and Emily 2.

OS NEWS

Marc Corbett-weaver (oS 2003) Concert pianist and Artistic Director Marc is a musician and he works as a concert pianist and artistic director.

tHEN 2015

After receiving his first piano lessons at the age of five, Marc’s early musical development was nurtured at QEGS where he attended from the age of seven to eighteen. At QEGS Marc was able to practice intensely and perform regularly, study for all ABRSM graded piano exams and diplomas, win many of school’s major music competitions and give his first performance of the Grieg Piano Concerto. During his earlier years at school, Marc was a chorister at Wakefield Cathedral. Later on, he was organist at St John’s Church. As he prepared to leave school, Marc auditioned successfully for conservatoire and went to study at the Royal College of Music in London.

Now based in London, Marc enjoys a busy musical career as a concert pianist and artistic director. He performs as a solo recitalist and concerto soloist across the UK and internationally.

His concerts have been much acclaimed in the local, national and international press. He has performed in many of the UK’s leading concert venues - including London’s Cadogan Hall where he has performed both Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto no. 1 and Rachmaninoff Piano Concerto no. 2. He is in demand as a teacher of the piano, several of his pupils having achieved success in the performing world. Marc is also Artistic Director of Bath Recitals an annual series of concerts produced in the principal performing venues of Bath.

Marc has founded two orchestras – Orpheus Sinfonia, which he directed for six years, and Firebird Orchestra, which he continues to direct. Firebird Orchestra has performed at Royal Festival Hall and Queen Elizabeth Hall in London’s Southbank Centre, Kings Place, Grosvenor House on Park Lane, Royal Pump Room in Bath, St George’s Hanover Square Mayfair and St Paul’s Covent Garden. The orchestra collaborates with several celebrated musicians including Mathieu van Bellen, Thomas Gould, Rainer Hersch, Aleksei Kiseliov, Jennifer Pike, Leonard Schreiber and Raphael Wallfisch. Its concerts have been covered enthusiastically in The Times, The Evening Standard, Classical Music Magazine, Classical Source and BBC Radio London.

Marc is Artistic Director of The Story of Christmas, the celebrated London Christmas concert which takes place annually at St George’s Hanover Square Mayfair and The Dorchester Park Lane.

Each year, the concert raises several hundreds of thousands of pounds for charity. It features a spectacular cast of performers.

During Marc’s time, these have included The Story of Christmas’s President Dame Judi Dench, Deputy President Aled Jones, Vice Presidents Benedict Cumberbatch, Edward Fox & Joanna David, Freddie Fox, Ian Hislop, Martin Jarvis, Joanna Lumley, Geoffrey Palmer, Michael Portillo, Dan Stevens and June Whitfield, with guest appearances from Daniel Craig, Miranda Richardson, David Suchet and Emma Watson.

Since “A Foundation in Wakefield” was Now released 10 years ago, Marc has performed 2025 in London, across the UK and in Europe as a solo classical pianist, playing solo recitals and piano concertos. Musician Opinion Magazine describes him as "an interpretive artist fully immersed in the subtleties and considerable technical demands of each composer’s writing. Both sets of pieces were given with quite notable interpretative mastery – bringing this subtly-planned and finely-executed recital to a satisfying conclusion.” Recent performances include Rachmaninoff Piano Concerto no. 2 in London, and recitals at the Edinburgh Festival, St James’s Piccadilly and St George’s Hanover Square. His students have won scholarships at the Purcell School, Royal College of Music, Royal Academy of Music and Guildhall School of Music and Drama, and prizes in major piano competitions.

Marc’s orchestra, the London Firebird Orchestra which showcases the next generation of classical musicians as they emerge from the London music colleges celebrates its 14th season of concerts this year. The orchestra has performed at the Royal Festival Hall and Queen Elizabeth Hall in London’s Southbank Centre, Cadogan Hall, Kings Place, the Bath Pump Room and SJE Arts Oxford, as well as its resident venue, St George’s Hanover Square. The orchestra - whose Patron is Dame Judi Dench - holds an annual composition competition for young composers (Angela Slater being among recent prize-winners), and an outreach project for local schoolchildren called Firebird for Schools.

Marc remains Artistic Director of The Story of Christmas, the celebrated London Christmas concert which takes place annually at St George’s Hanover Square Mayfair and The Dorchester Park Lane. You can read more about this amazing concert in our News section.

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OS NEWS

Ryan Stones (OS 2010) Senior Lecturer, City, University of London Ryan studied at QEGS from 2003 to 2010, THEN leaving with A Levels in English Literature, 2015 Government and Politics, and Latin (AAA).

From 2010 to 2013 he read Law at the London School of Economics and Political Science, graduating with First Class Honours; for each of his three years of study, Ryan was awarded the prize for best examination performance in law.

In 2015, Ryan was just starting his career in legal NOW academia, writing his doctoral thesis at the 2025 London School of Economics and dabbling in some teaching. In September 2018 he submitted his PhD thesis, titled EU Competition Law and the Rule of Law: Justification and Realisation. In the same month, he began as a Lecturer in Law at City, University of London, where he is now a Senior Lecturer.

He then went on to undertake postgraduate study at the University of Oxford, graduating with a Distinction on the Bachelor of Civil Law programme in summer 2014. He subsequently returned to the LSE, where he is currently working towards a PhD in EU competition law and legal theory.

Ryan’s research has been published in several leading law journals and in various edited collections. He has written on a variety of theoretical and practical issues, including the conceptual foundations of competition law, the relationship between law and economics, the history of economic thought in competition policy, the use of insights from behavioural economics, enforcement of competition law against the giants of the digital economy, and regulation of the video games industry. He has presented his work at several academic institutions across the UK and Europe. He is currently working on his first book, loosely based on his PhD thesis.

In August 2015, Ryan taught a three-week intensive competition law course for legal professionals from around the world as part of the LSE Summer School.

Alongside his research, he currently teaches UK constitutional and administrative law for first-year undergraduate law students at the LSE.

Ryan leads several modules at The City Law School, including “Competition Law” for undergraduate students, plus “Merger Control” and “Regulation of Video Games and Online Platforms” for postgraduates. He also lectures on the economic analysis of law for first-year students, and has previously taught constitutional law, administrative law, and immigration law. Beyond his teaching, Ryan has also held various leadership roles at City, including as Co-Director of the LLB Law programme and Assistant Dean for Assessments.

Ryan met his partner Lauren, a civil servant, on their first day as students at the LSE in 2010. In 2024 they welcomed their son, Wilfrid.

research has been “ Ryan’s published in several leading law journals and in various edited collections

”

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OS NEWS

Paul Edwards (OS 2005) Dentist & Implant Surgeon Paul is a graduate of both the University of THEN Newcastle and the Royal College of Physicians 2015 and Surgeons of Glasgow, having studied Dentistry at both. Paul was winner of the Northern Deanery Key Skills Prize in 2012 and has published both case reports and journal articles in his field.

Paul’s first appointment post university was with the Newcastle Dental Hospital where he was able to complete his training as a General Professional Trainee and House Officer. Working in both primary and secondary care areas, Paul was able to gain many transferable skills. These he took to his next post as Senior House Officer in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery at the Royal Victoria Infirmary. Whilst here, Paul worked closely with A&E staff and managed patients who required acute and elective surgery procedures.

A move to Australia followed where Paul became Dentist and Lead Surgeon at Gympie Hospital and Caloundra Hospital, both on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland. Both hospitals are state funded to provide oral healthcare for the less fortunate and Paul’s role was to provide general dentistry, promote oral healthcare as well as perform treatments under general anaesthetic.

NOW 2025

In 2015, I got married and we returned to where my wife and I graduated in Newcastle upon Tyne to settle down. We now have two beautiful daughters.

Shortly after, I returned to general practice for its increased flexibility regarding working hours and looked to utilise my skillset. I qualified in dental implant surgery at Sheffield University and now perform procedures to replace lost teeth with dental implants, along with associated bone grafting procedures. My clinical time is divided between this, other oral surgery such as removing wisdom teeth and general practice consisting of your usual checkups, fillings and more cosmetic dentistry.

I have consistently held roles in dental education since returning to the North East. At Newcastle University I have taught undergraduates on the Emergency Clinic and I mentor newly qualified postgraduate dentists in general practice.

Paul’s current role is with Ormskirk District General Hospital as Specialty Doctor in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery.

Drawing on his previous experience and being mentored by his more senior colleagues, Paul has become proficient in more advanced oral surgery procedures. He is currently being trained in the surgical treatment and facial reconstruction of those patients who have had skin cancers.

“

The first years of my career were spent in hospital positions building a surgical skillset and portfolio of work, both clinically and in academic research.

Within dentistry it was surgery that captured my interest, for my wife it was orthodontics, and there are many more subspecialities too.

Teaching is something I never imagined doing, but sharing your knowledge and ideas is fulfilling and challenges your expertise. I have a very mixed working week, which keeps me very motivated, and a great work-life balance.

Dentistry is very flexible as a career. In practice I can choose working hours that best help me see my children grow up. I have also worked as a dentist in Australia for a year where medical professionals are highly sought after, which is a great life experience.

Medical professions are forever evolving and improving and we continue to train and retrain.

There are aspects of it which I find marry science with engineering and artistry. I find it stimulating, motivating and best of all are the many grateful patients smiling back at you to whom you have been pivotal in improving their lives and maintaining their health.

I qualified in dental implant surgery at Sheffield University and now perform procedures to replace lost teeth with dental implants, along with associated bone grafting procedures

”

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OS NEWS

David Brindley (OS 1999) Head of Manufacturing Engineering, JLR Slovakia After completing his A Levels at QEGS, David THEN attended Coventry University and graduated in 2015 2003 with a degree in Industrial Product Design.

He entered GIST’s Graduate Training Programme focussing on Operations Management in the third party logistics industry, and worked across several contacts as a Shift Manager including a Marks & Spencer’s food site in Kent and the Marks & Spencer’s International Export Centre in Hemel Hempstead.

In 2005 he took on his first full-time role as a Shift Manager based at the Carlsberg Brewery in Northampton, and after a few months took a role as the Operations Manager responsible for a team of 68 supplying materials and removing finished goods from the site. In 2007 he led several projects focussed on environmental improvements and cost savings which led to a nomination for the C.I.L.T Young Manager of the Year award.

From 2008 to 2011 he moved across several roles within GIST covering production management and continuous improvement activities, supporting a supply chain improvement programme across Northern Europe.

In 2012 David moved back into Operational Management and as part of a contract changeover moved to Norbert Dentressangle. While there David project managed the opening and closure of several large retail warehouses in Northamptonshire.

In 2013 he moved to the automotive manufacturer Jaguar Land Rover as a Project Manager, and had responsibility for the development of the supply chain to get production parts to a new factory under construction in China. Once completed David was promoted into his current role, International Operations Development Manager where he is responsible for the development and improvement of supply chain processes to support the international manufacturing plants for Jaguar Land Rover products.He currently resides in Northampton with his wife and two children.

“

His current role in Manufacturing Engineering leads the local team of around 150 engineers in the Nitra facility

”

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Since the last update, David continues to work in Jaguar Land Rover, but moved in 2017 to Slovakia as part of the team responsible for the construction and launch of the new factory which was built in Nitra to manufacture the Land Rover Discoveryand Defender brands.

NOW 2025

He is still based there, and has covered several roles while in Slovakia, including Logistics Engineering Manager, Senior Manager, Logistics Director, and most recently the head of the Manufacturing Engineering team.

His current role in Manufacturing Engineering leads the local team of around 150 engineers in the Nitra facility, who are responsible for the design and installation of equipment and technology for Body construction, Paint and final assembly of the vehicles.

He is also responsible for construction of all buildings, infrastructure and the management of the site and environmental services for the Nitra facility.

He is currently preparing the facility for the next product to be manufactured there, and is due to move back to a UK based position in 2027.

He lives in Slovakia with his wife and 3 children, and the photos show the site as it is today, which builds all of the 135,000 Land Rover Discovery and Defender products shipped across the world each year, and employs around 4,500 employees in the Region.

OS NEWS

Sam Butterworth (OS 1999) Head of Marketing – Nexus

THEN 2015

Sam gained a place at Stirling University to read Psychology. In his gap year he found work at the stocks and shares subsidiary of Yorkshire Building Society and elected to remain there.

When YorkShare was taken over by the Canadian TD Bank Group, Sam continued with the firm as a Trader until they closed his office as a result of the early 2000s recession.

Deciding upon a more stable career path, he chose Marketing and moved to Access Plus plc, a direct marketing and print outsourcing business where he managed a £2m print spend.

He later moved to their technical division where he helped pioneer Web2Print technology in partnership with Hewlett Packard.

In 2007, Sam joined Axia Interactive Media as their Marketing and Quality Manager. He was key to their implementation and support of Axia's e-portfolio, one of the first platforms that enabled the online assessment of NVQs. Sam's next post was Parabis Group, a legal services outsourcing business, where he oversaw the marketing requirements for multiple brands with a combined turnover of £180m.

Sam is currently Head of Marketing at Nexus Vehicle Rental, a private-equity backed vehicle rental broker providing businesses with access to any vehicles, anytime, anywhere, through an online rental system.

“

Sam has earned the highest professional qualifications in marketing, becoming a Fellow of both the Institute of Data & Marketing, and the Chartered Institute of Marketing

”

Fractional CMO, The Marketing Centre

NOW 2025

Sam has established himself as one of the UK's leading fractional marketing directors and has worked with ambitious businesses to deliver strategic growth in over 15 sectors.

Following his successful tenure at Nexus, where he helped increase EBITDA by 52%, Sam served as Head of Marketing at Evri, optimising their £5 million marketing budget and saving £900,000 through data-driven analysis.

In 2017, Sam joined Zenith Vehicles to launch ZenAuto, an FCA-regulated FinTech leasing platform. He led the brand development and marketing launch for the project, developing a comprehensive go-to-market strategy and managing a £1.4M digital budget.

Since 2020, Sam has worked as a Fractional Chief Marketing Officer with the nationwide business consultancy, The Marketing Centre. During his tenure, he has served as Marketing Director for 12 businesses and as CMO for 3 others. His clients span diverse sectors, including SaaS technology, manufacturing, professional services, and construction – spanning UK, US, EMEA, and APAC markets.

Notable career highlights include delivering 300% brand awareness growth for Arctic Hayes in the HVAC industry, overseeing digital communication transformation in the charity sector, with StepChange Debt Charity and delivering marketing growth for seven private equity investments. He has also maintained a five-year strategic relationship with National Tube Stockholders, part of Italy's Bianco Group.

During his career, Sam has earned the highest professional qualifications in marketing, becoming a Fellow of both the Institute of Data & Marketing, and the Chartered Institute of Marketing, achieving Chartered Marketer status. He has also completed an Executive MBA and serves as a registered CIM mentor.

Beyond his commercial work, Sam volunteers in several roles, serving as Vice Chair of Governors at Wakefield Grammar School Foundation, and as a Local Review Board Governor with Resilience Multi-Academy Trust.

For Sam, giving back to the local community and to the institutions that helped shape his career remains a core priority.

www.qegsonline.org.uk 27

OS MEMORIES

The Power of Bursaries...

Financial assistance plays a crucial role in opening doors for talented students from all backgrounds, ensuring that financial circumstances never stand in the way of an outstanding education.

Earlier this year we reached out to our Old Savilian Community, asking those who had received financial assistance to attend QEGS, whether through a Bursary, an Assisted Place or through the Direct Grant scheme, to share the story of how this impacted their lives.

Melvyn White (OS 1956)

Mickey Walker (OS 1998)

I attended QEGS 1951 – 56 on a Choral Scholarship.

My Parents could never have afforded to send me otherwise. Whilst I was certainly not brilliant academically, I certainly enjoyed my time there. Mr Grace was my First Headmaster, followed by Mr Baggaley. The Masters I remember being Messrs Vincent, Chapman, Hawkins, Brook, Gatiss, Staziker, Driscoll, - mostly with fondness! QEGS gave me a good grounding in life and I was always proud of my association with the School and of course Wakefield Cathedral who provided my funding and my life long interest in Music, “Floreas Wakefieildia”.

I was a pupil at QEGS from 1991-1998 and I was on an Assisted Place scheme due to being part of a single parent family.

I went on to study French and German at Northumbria University and I've been living in London for the past 20 years working as an Oil Broker. My sister Alex was also the beneficiary of an assisted place scheme at WGHS from 1989-1996. She's now a teacher at Huntington School in York and is married to another QEGS graduate from her year.

It's tough to overstate how much I value my time at QEGS and the way it shaped my future. I believe the assisted place scheme was abolished once Labour came to power in the late 90's so I was lucky to benefit from it. All my closest friends are still from my QEGS days and we all still wax lyrical about what a great time we had.

Faiq Aziz (OS 2020) I was a recipient of a bursary which allowed me to come to QEGS. Coming from Bradford, I used to get 2 trains and a bus to QEGS every day (there and back!) and I can say it was worth every second of it. I would not be where I am today if it wasn’t for the financial support QEGS provided me.

It was a huge change for me, coming into a school with a different culture to my previous schools, but a culture

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which was positive, with everyone striving to be the best they could be. This rubbed off on me without a doubt and I have made friends for life at QEGS, which is unusual for me having very little contact with any of my peers from my previous schools. QEGS has allowed me to succeed in my A-levels, and I am now finishing my 4th year of Medical School at the University of Liverpool.

I will forever be indebted to the QEGS community.

Dr Neil Firth (OS 1980) I came to QEGS in 1975 from Flanshaw St Michaels Middle School. I was 13 years old, and came on the last year of the Direct Grant scheme from Wakefield Council at the time. Everyone was told that the selection was random, but from all the schools involved there seemed to be one student who did very well, and, how do we say it kindly, ‘one who didn’t’.

Having started in 4UW (Mr Wells’ class) as a 13 year old, I did feel massively behind, and my end of year exam results in my first year weren't the best.

It did give me a ‘kick in the pants’ and I did work hard over the Summer holidays, so that I was rather better in my second year, especially in Chemistry, Physics, and Maths. Having Mr Weston for Chemistry, and Mrs Fletcher for Maths was crucial to my improvement.

My O Levels weren’t the greatest, however: I got 6 As (Chemistry, Physics, Maths, English, French and German (Mr Howe was an incredible teacher in Modern Languages), a B in History (neither Mr Rigby nor myself could believe that one), and a C in Geography (can’t really explain what happened there) My A Levels were better: 3 As (Chemistry, Maths, and General Studies) and a B in Physics (Mr Kent was rather disappointed in me) I was the first in my family to go to University (and only my kids have been since). I went to University of Manchester to study Chemistry, receiving the Brotherton Scholarship in 1980. I received the Woodiwis Prize as top of First Year, and the Mercer Prize for top of Final Year (don’t know what happened in the Second Year), as well as the Royal Society of Chemistry Prize in 1983 for Best Chemistry Student. I did a PhD with Professor Grice at Manchester in Molecular Beam Reactive Scattering of Fluorine Atoms, winning the Hibbert Prize for best Scientific PhD in 1987.

“

I did a PhD with Professor Grice at Manchester in Molecular Beam Reactive Scattering of Fluorine Atoms, winning the Hibbert Prize for best Scientific PhD in 1987

I did some Post Doctoral work in Manchester from 1986 until 1988, when I joined the Research Group at ICI Explosives at Ardeer in Scotland.

I left there in 1997, when the site at Ardeer closed and the Group relocated to Canada (I decided not to relocate with them), and joined a small Biotech company (Core Technolgies) in September 1997 as Director of Project Management.

I worked at Lancaster University from March 2000 until I retired in November 2009 (due to ill health).

When I was at Manchester University, I saw the younger brother of someone I went to Flanshaw with.

His brother had always been my partner for science projects, and I’d have said there was very little difference between us academically. I went to QEGS, whereas he went to Eastmoor. His brother told me that he’d done very well, getting 5 O-Levels, and 2 A-Levels. I always thought the difference was QEGS, and especially the superb teachers (Mr Fowler (English and my Form Master), Mr Rigby (History), Mr Howe (French and German), Mr Weston (Chemistry), and Mrs Fletcher (Maths). Mrs Fletcher was also my A-Level Maths teacher, along with Mr Kent (Physics) and Mr Bottomley (Chemistry). All of them left a lasting impression on me.

” www.qegsonline.org.uk 29

SUPPORT US

Help us to change lives with a gift to our Bursary Fund its history Wakefield Grammar “ Throughout School Foundation has had a tradition of supporting pupils of limited means to attend our schools. As a bursary recipient myself, I know just how important that tradition is, has been, and how important it is that we continue to offer that kind of support going forwards

”

Dr Richard Brookes WGSF Executive Head For generations, Wakefield Grammar School Foundation has been empowering exceptional young people, who are determined to make a meaningful impact on the world, to achieve their full potential.

With your support, we can continue to provide talented students from diverse backgrounds and perspectives with the opportunity to receive an outstanding education, regardless of their financial circumstances.

Our ambition is to ensure that no student is excluded due to financial need – but we need your support.

By donating to the WGSF Bursary Fund, you can help us provide access to a diverse, inclusive learning community where young people, with the potential to make a difference, can thrive.

Join our community of supporters today and together we can empower the next generation.

A gift that makes a difference!

It costs nearly £140,000 to support one pupil throughout the whole of their senior school education. It only takes a small number of people making a donation every month for a year to fund a full bursary place for a year.

Scan the QR code below or visit https://wgsf.org.uk/make-agift/ to find out more about how you can support us.

If you would like to make your donation by cheque, please make cheques payable to Wakefield Grammar School Foundation and send them to: Development Office, Wakefield Grammar School Foundation, 154 Northgate, Wakefield, WF1 3QX

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SUPPORT US

LASTING LEGACIES Leave a legacy that will help to inspire the next generation.

Remembering Wakefield Grammar School Foundation in your Will is one of the most personal and significant ways you can support us. Any gift, large or small, plays a vital role in our work and will make a real difference to the lives of young people within the Foundation.

There are several ways you can choose to remember WGSF in your Will: n

n

n

Residuary legacy: once family and friends have been provided for, the remainder of a percentage of your estate is donated.

Pecuniary legacy: a fixed sum of money.

Specific: a specific or in-kind bequest (for instance, property, stocks and shares, works of art or antiques).

However you decide to remember WGSF, we will endeavour to follow your wishes and intentions wherever possible.

If you would like to discuss remembering WGSF in your Will, please contact the Development Office on 01924 663 733 or OS@wgsf.net We always recommend that you take professional advice from a solicitor to ensure the legacy meets your personal circumstances.

LEAvING AN IMPAC T 1591 Legacy Society Members Members of the 1591 Legacy Society have all left a gift to QEGS in their Will.

We are grateful to all members of the society for their support of the School.

Members David Baker OS 1978

Donald Beardshall OS 1954

Mr William Bramley OS 1970

Michael Cheesbrough OS 1962

Paul Crompton OS 1976

David Elliott OS 1956

Phillip Hodson OS 1969

John McLeod Former Spokesman of the Governors

Christopher Plumpton OS 1976

David Wigglesworth OS 1987

Charles Wright OS 1975 The following wish to remain anonymous

Old Savilian 1947 Old Savilian 1952 Old Savilian 1960 Old Savilian 1965 Old Savilian 1969 Old Savilian 1974

www.qegsonline.org.uk 31

LIVES REMEMBERED

Remembering James Moran 4th November 2023 On 4 November 2023, Old Savilians and former staff gathered to mark the 25th anniversary of the passing of James Moran.

Sam Butterworth (OS 1999) shares his memories of this memorial below.

I look back and think of James Moran quite often. More than expected all these years on. Perhaps it's being around school.

Triggers the memories. I close my eyes and can hear the silly things we’d say to each other, laughing between lessons.

We were just boys then, but now time plays tricks. I smile, and then I wish I could see him again.

I open my eyes on twenty five years that have passed.

Gathering to pay tribute to our friend. We greet each other, smile and laugh together, but then we remember. We stand on that pitch as the gentle rain falls. Stood still as trees – like time.

Bowed heads, wet eyes and autumn leaves – once carried up in a breeze – now silently caress the ground.

We loved him, that’s for sure. He was one of us – school somehow made us brothers who share a deeper understanding. We haven’t met for a quarter of a century but it feels sooner. The magic – the bond we share – keeps his memory alive among us. So now I know if I met James again, we could just pick up where we left off. Have a pint.

Tell funny stories. But time plays tricks.

We are standing here on a field where he fell, but this is not his legacy. Perhaps it is the shining example he set, by virtue of his finer qualities. A light more brilliant than our own. It guides us and unites us, as we grow older. It has done so ever since and will endure well into the future.

Sam Butterworth (Class of 1999 and 2nd XV, 1998)

EDMUND MARSHALL former Governor Edmund Marshall was Member of Parliament for Goole from 1971 – 1983. He served as Parliamentary Private Secretary to the Home Secretary from 1976 to 1979 and as Chair of the Select Committee on Trade and Industry from 1981 to 1983.

Edmund became a Methodist Local Preacher in 1958, a role he continued for over 60 years; and in 1992 he served as Vice President of the Methodist Conference. During the 1990's he was confirmed into the Church of England, and from 2000 to 2015 was a member of the General Synod.

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He had a vast array of interests in addition to politics and religion, with his career outside of politics centring around education and industry. A meticulous planner, Edmund spoke of his desire for a thanksgiving service. As politics and religion were such important elements of his life, the two will be combined in the service to be held at St Margaret's in April.

JUNE FARRAR (Former Staff Member) It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of June Farrar, a well-known and much respected member of staff across the foundation.

June worked in the QEGS office from January 1997 until her retirement in 2014 due to ill health. During her many years of service, she made a lasting impact on colleagues and students alike and she will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.

Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this difficult time.

MICHAEL PARKIN former Classics Master Studies Michael Parkin, passed away on 14 March, at the age of 88 after battling complications arising from prostate cancer. Michael retired from the Classics Department in 1996 after many years of dedicated service, having joined QEGS in 1959. His legacy at the school is fondly remembered, and his contributions to the lives of students and staff alike were significant.

Michael's two sons, Christopher and Timothy, both attended QEGS, and his wife, Gail, sadly passed away some years ago.

ALAN KENDALL (OS 1966) It is with great sadness that I must announce the death of Alan Kendall. (OS 1966). Although a disability prevented Alan from ever being able to try for the First XV, he spoke fondly of his time at QEGS. Alan's career after QEGS took him into the area of Town Planning. Alan married Jean and they had two daughters, Ruth and Jo. Alan was a good husband, a good father and a good grandfather to four grandchildren. Alan was a good and respected friend. He enjoyed cricket and model railways. In terms of character, Alan was a moral man who spoke his mind. Alan was a devout (and genuine) Christian. Some Old Savilians may remember him from his many years at St Andrew's Church in Wakefield. Later in life, Alan was active at Christ Church, South Ossett and on moving to Suffolk, he joined St Mary's Church Woolpit where he sang in the choir and took on other roles as well. Alan was much-loved family man who was a credit to QEGS and the Church.

JAMES ROXBY MOORE former Spokesperson for the Governors Roxby Moore sadly passed away on 23rd January 2025 aged 97 years.

He initially became a member of the Friends of St John's House and then later became a Governor. He succeeded Philip Gill as Spokesperson for the Governors and continued in that role until 1983. Even after his formal affiliation with the school ended, he continued to follow the schools with interest, right through to the recent plans to become a diamond model school.

Our condolences go to his friends and family, especially, wife Cynthia, daughter Cherry (OG 1976), and Son, Julian (OS 1978)

JOHN BURKINSHAW (OS 1987) I write to inform you of the death of my brother, John Burkinshaw, pupil of QEGS from 1980 to 1987, son of David Burkinshaw, physics teacher who retired as Deputy Headmaster at QEGS in 1996 after 32 years on the staff.

John was 56, and almost 4 years younger than me, and he bravely fought bowel cancer for a full year until November 2024. He died peacefully at home in Scotland, shortly after relocating to retire there with his wife Liz. He leaves two daughters, Amber and Charlotte, who live and work in Warwickshire.

If any OS wish to contact me for further information, I would be most happy to hear from them by email to this address.

Burkinshaw.Richard@gmail.com Thanks go to NHS Scotland, Macmillan, and the many many friends, family and carers who helped him make the best of his last year with us.

He and his wife published a blog, tracing their property search and move to Argyll & Bute, Scotland, including starring in "BBC Escape to the Country" who helped find their dream house. It can be read here at https://www.northstartranquility.co.uk/ Richard Burkinshaw (QEGS 1976-83)

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LIVES REMEMBERED DR JOHN ROBERT MCCONAGHY ROSS It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John Robert McConaghy Ross, who left us peacefully on January 6, 2025, just two days shy of his 80th birthday.

John was born on January 8, 1945, in Beeston near Nottingham, the second son of Dr. George and Dr. Margret Ross.

He spent most of his life at Ingfield House, Northgate, Almondbury, a place that became a home full of love, laughter, and lasting memories for his family. John leaves behind his wife, Anne, and five children: Samantha, James, Charles, George, and Alastair. He was also a proud grandfather to twelve grandchildren. A lifelong lover of sport, John's journey began at Rosemead School, followed by King James Grammar School and Queen Elizabeth Grammar School in Wakefield, where he discovered his passion for rugby.

It was during his time at QEGS that rugby became more than just a game; it became a lifelong pursuit. He went on to study medicine at Guy's Hospital in London, where he not only excelled academically but also served as captain of the rugby team. His commitment to rugby saw him play for Esher, Huddersfield, Kent, and the Barbarians, and he even had trials for the National Irish Rugby Team. His love for the game extended far beyond his own playing days he passed this passion on to his children, often spending his Saturday afternoons nervously watching them play.

After qualifying as a doctor, John returned to Huddersfield and joined his parents' general practice in Almondbury, where he became a trusted and well-loved GP. His patients appreciated not only his medical expertise but also his warm sense of humor and genuine care. John's medical career was defined by his compassion, and he always had a way of making those around him feel at ease, whether it was through his reassuring words or his infectious laugh.

MICK BRADLEY former Head Porter QEGS It is with great sadness that we report the passing of Mick Bradley. Mick joined QEGS as an assistant porter in 1984 before rising through the ranks for over 30 years to become Head Porter.

Mick was always known for sorting things out promptly and with a wicked sense of humour, always had a smile on his face. He will be sadly missed by his family and his friends at QEGS

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In addition to his professional achievements, John was an active member of both the Huddersfield Rugby Club and Woodsome Hall Golf Club.

His love of sport continued throughout his life, and he found great joy in both playing and watching his favorite games. Sadly, John had to retire early due to health reasons, as he began showing early signs of dementia.

In the face of this challenge, he displayed great resilience, and his family was blessed to have him for many more years.

For the last decade of his life, John lived in New Zealand with his youngest son, Alastair, and his family, who provided him with loving care and support. His health gradually declined, and after a long and courageous battle with dementia, John returned to Almondbury, where he spent his final years at The Abbey Place Care Home in Fartown.

In accordance with his wishes, there will be no funeral service. However, a celebration of John's life will take place on Saturday 1st February at his beloved Huddersfield Rugby Club. A one minute silence will take place before the 12.15pm game against Alaric.

John's legacy lives on through his family - his children, grandchildren, and everyone who was fortunate enough to know him. His love for life, his compassion for others, and his zest for living will be remembered always. We will miss him deeply but take comfort in knowing that his influence will continue to guide and inspire us.

DR HARRY DALTON (OS 1977) Harry Dalton, formerly Consultant Gastroenterologist at the Royal Cornwall Hospital (RCH), has died at the age of 65 years.

Harry was born in nearby Morley in 1958. He was educated at Queen Elizabeth Grammar School, Wakefield 1970 – 1977. His university education was at Charing Cross Medical School London, qualifying MB, BS in 1983.

His first Junior Post was at the old Clayton Hospital across the road from QEGS. Later he became a Senior House Officer in General Medicine at Treliske Hospital, Cornwall.

Following a Registrar post at St George’s Hospital, London and an academic post in Oxford he completed his specialist training in Gastroenterology in Leeds. In 1994 he returned to Cornwall, having been appointed as a Consultant Gastroenterologist at his old hospital.

He spent most the rest of his career in Cornwall.

Harry made innovative changes to the Gastroenterology service at RCH, developing and expanding the endoscopy service in particular. He was one of the founders of a multidisciplinary Jaundice Hotline clinic which saw referred patients rapidly, with clinical assessment, laboratory investigation and radiology all performed on the same day.

This was ground-breaking at the time and formed the basis of later studies. A similar rapid access service for dysphagia followed.

Education was another passion. Harry relished teaching undergraduates and junior doctors both formally and in clinical settings. He wrote several examination guides and a textbook of Gastroenterology. He made links with UK and overseas medical schools establishing Cornwall as a popular placement for students. From 1997-2002 he established and chaired the Cornish Undergraduate Education Group. Building on this, he served as a Peninsula Medical School project executive resulting in the foundation of a new Medical School with bases in Exeter, Plymouth and (critically) Truro.

In 2003, something happened which lit Harry’s fuse.

An unexpected, autochtonous case of Hepatitis E had been discovered by a colleague in Cornwall a couple of years earlier. Analysis of cases of unexplained hepatitis at the Jaundice Hotline revealed a handful more. A rush of laboratory investigations, local and international collaborations, case studies and data collection ensued.

CRAIG MILFULL Craig Milfull has sadly passed away after a long battle with cancer.

Over the next few years, with others we established inter alia that locally acquired Hepatitis E was surprisingly common, porcine in origin, affected older men disproportionately, killed patients with chronic liver disease, could be chronic in the immunosuppressed, caused specific neurological disorders and could be transmitted by blood transfusion. Harry’s charm, drive and unconventional approach led to his involvement with multiple international research groups and an extensive travel itinerary. It also led to a series of well-received publications, invitations to speak at specialist conferences and membership of expert bodies.

Away from work, Harry was an inveterate smoker, military historian, keen cook, pianist, vegetable gardener and above all, entertainer. He was a stimulating, generous, provocative, kind and frequently infuriating friend and colleague. He was happiest at work. Following his early retirement in 2018 his mental health suffered and life became very difficult for him. However, he began the road to recovery and his discovery of a personal, vital christian faith brought him strength and comfort – a key factor in helping put many issues behind him. He provided practical help for a number of charitable causes including the establishment of a new set of premises for the Leeds City Mission in connection with its work for marginalised people. It is poignant that his final illness occurred just as he was emerging from this challenging phase in his life.

He is survived by his ex-wife Gillian and four sons, 3 of whom are doctors.

Harry Dalton BSc DPhil (Oxon) FRCP Dip Med Ed. Born 17 December 1958 and died of metastatic oral cancer on 19 March 2024.

Authors: Andrew Dalton (brother), Dr Richard Bendall, Dr Jeremy Hunter (colleagues).

MAX WHITE (OS 1979) Max sadly passed away in Worcester Hospital on April 10th 2024 just weeks after he'd been diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia and a few days short of his 63rd birthday. Max previously worked at the Royal Greenwich Observatory and was a member of the Kettering Group. Our condolences go to his friends and family.

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LIVES REMEMBERED PETER HUSTWITT (OS 1954) Peter Hustwitt Died in Ottawa on January 11, 2023 at the age of 87.

Peter attended Queen Elizabeth Grammar School from 1944 until 1954, during his time at QEGS, he held several offices, he was the scorer for U14 XI (1948-49), Form Librarian and member of the scientific society(1949-50), Sub prefect (1951-52), Prefect, Member of the Historical Society, XI Cricket Scorer and Assistant Games Secretary (1952-53), Deputy Head Boy, Games Secretary and Captain of Cave(1953-54).

His last comment on his report card read ‘ A very friendly and charming boy with a loud laugh. Sound ability: should do well at Cambridge: fine character’ Peter was born on 20 April 1935 in Yorkshire, England, the elder son of John and Elenor Hustwitt. He was educated at Queen Elizabeth Grammar School, Wakefield, at St Catharine's College Cambridge and at University College London. He was a Fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and a Member of the Town Planning Institutes in both the UK and Canada.

Peter worked as a town planner in a private practice in London and for a local authority in Durham, England, before emigrating to Canada with his family in 1966. He worked in many capacities, for 30 years with the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation at the National Office in Ottawa before retiring in 1996. Peter was an award winning philatelist and an avid collector of antique maps and prints. He enjoyed good wines, single malt whiskeys, tending his garden with its roses, golf and the occasional game of bridge, but said he was not particularly good at either of the latter two. Peter had a long and productive life and travelled the world with his beloved wife Evelyn. He was widely respected and cherished for his integrity, humour and stoic character. Peter was predeceased in 2019 by his daughter Kay and in 2022 by Evelyn (nee Fulton) his wife of 62 years.

He will be sadly missed by his daughter Lynne, brother Robert, sister-in-law Christine, son-in-law Kevin and many friends.

Peter was a very proud grandfather to Dillon and Zeke.

GEORGE SAWYER (OS 2023) It is with broken hearts that we share the tragic news of the passing of George Sawyer, who died in an accident near Askham Bryan, where he was studying on 27th March 2023.

George was a cherished member of our community, full of life, and deeply loved. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with his parents, Sarah and Phil, and his sister, Lucy, during this unimaginable time.

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STEPHEN MIDGLEY (OS 1974) Stephen was born in December 1955. He gained a Scholarship to QEGS in the 1960s. Stephen spent about 45 years working for Wakefield Council where he was known for his hard work and attention to detail.

Stephen became a Christian in the mid-1980s. He became a man who 'lived out' his deep faith, not only as a Church Warden at St Andrews Church on Peterson Road but through many acts of kindness, plus much sacrificial giving to good causes. Stephen served God humbly, without demanding recognition of all the good works he did. Stephen died of cancer in June 2023, remaining a faithful Christian to the end.

RICHARD WOODSIDE former Physics Teacher It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Richard Woodside. Richard worked at Queen Elizabeth Grammar School (QEGS) for boys for 19 years between 1985 and 2004. He was known for wearing a bow tie – it being safer than a regular tie in a lab around bunsen burners – and demonstrating how to fasten one to pupils before official school dances.

Born in West Kirby, on The Wirral, Richard taught physics in Wellingborough and Bath before moving to Wakefield. In 1991, he married his wife, Cora Woodside, whom he met while teaching English at the school.

Richard worked for Cambridge International for 39 years as an examiner, chief examiner, paper setter, editor, and international trainer. And he is the author and co-author of several GCSE , AS and A-level textbooks.

Richard and Cora moved from Wakefield to Cornwall after early retirement in 2014.

Richard was a loving husband to Cora, and doting father to his sons Duncan and Alasdair and his partner Mandy, and a loving stepfather to Mark and partner Nicola, Paul and wife Catherine, and step-grandad to Rachel and Alex.

COLIN TEASDALE (OS 1966) Colin Teasdale sadly died at the end of April 2023 He was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis many years ago and had to retire early, as a surgeon, in Plymouth. Many neurological conditions, including MS, Motor Neurone Disease and Parkinson’s Disease gradually rob you of your life. Colin’s mobility suffered early on, latterly he had great difficulty swallowing, even liquids, and eventually lost his speech.

Colin knew what awaited him. He progressively lost the ability to swallow and was admitted to hospital on three occasions with aspiration pneumonia. Part of life’s sometimes UNrich pattern.

He refused the fitting of a PEG (Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy). That wasn’t a route he wanted to take.

Colin mentioned his legacy - of which he was proud.

He trained as a General Surgeon but then specialised as a breast surgeon. He was aware of the anxiety and stress endured by women who spot a breast lump the long, drawn out diagnostic and treatment programmes which had to be faced. A ‘one-stop’ centre was required. Fast, accurate and as kind as possible.

DAVID OWEN EVANS (OS 1972) Known to many as an unfiltered and funny soul, passed away peacefully at home on the 4th of September 2024, at the age of 70.

David was one-of-a-kind, a man whose passion for amateur radio (callsign G0EVA) connected him with people across the globe. His enthusiasm for this hobby was only matched by his knack for making people laugh, often with a joke that was as unexpected as it was hilarious.

ANDREW RHODES (OS 1989)

He approached the head of the NHS trust for funds but was refused. As a determined, maybe stubborn, Yorkshireman taking ‘No’ for an answer was not an option. Eventually, he got a ‘deal’ - if he, and colleagues, could raise half a million pounds (a lot of money 25 years ago, even now), the hospital trust would match this.

The money was raised. The unit was built. It was suggested that the unit be named after him - he refused. Colin was never one to draw attention to himself.

A great legacy. Colin made a huge contribution to Women’s Health. https://www.primrosefoundation.org/about-us Eric Teasdale (OS 1966) Colin attended QEGS from 1961. During his 2 years he held the offices of both supplementary Prefect and School Prefect and was a member of both the Cross country Team and Athletics Team.

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Andrew Rhodes (OS 1989) who passed away suddenly on 6th June.

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LIVES REMEMBERED CALEY MACKAY former QEGS Staff Caley Mackay arrived at QEGS in 2017 and joined the business department and settled in seamlessly from the outset. From as early as the first minute of her lesson for her job interview it was immediately apparent that she was extremely knowledgeable and passionate about her subject, but also had a genuine interest in the students and was determined that she would do her best to maximise their opportunities. Unfailingly organised, Caley would volunteer organising various trips to local businesses and helping to staff the annual New York Business and Economics study visit.

From a department perspective, it is very difficult to overstate the importance of her contribution, but also the cheerful and positive manner in which she went about her work.

Caley was extremely passionate about her job and worked very hard to set up the school ‘Enterprise’ scheme. She worked with boys of all ages, from the junior section through to sixth form, and possessed an innate ability to motivate boys with a range of interests. She encouraged and supported boys throughout their participation in school, regional and national competitions to market, advertise and sell their innovative products. Her teams regularly reached the finals of competitions and achieved an excellent level of success. The boys fully bought into Caley’s ideas and natural enthusiasm, and always sought to do her proud at these competitions.

Despite having a young family of her own, Caley offered a significant amount of her time outside of school to support a wide variety of activities. She regularly went on the DofE expeditions, (even though she was not a fan of the cold!) and could be found in Lioret De Mar during the summer holidays on the Watersports trip (enjoying the sun!). She always enjoyed spending time with both students and colleagues,

and invested much effort in ensuring and caring that everyone was enjoying themselves.

Caley’s legacy will continue to live on at QEGS through the ‘Mackay Enterprise Award’ And a memorial plaque has been placed in the school reception outside the Headmaster’s office, as a place for staff and students to remember Caley.

I am sure everyone would agree that Caley was not just a colleague, she was a friend - a supportive, kind-hearted and reliable person who made the lives of everyone she met that little bit more fun and enjoyable. She was always a friendly face in the staff room that would be there to listen and offer support, and she would always be one of the first to sign up for curry nights and the Christmas party (or encouraging others to!). Caley lived life to the full. She was thoughtful, caring, family-orientated and she made a significantly positive impact on many people’s lives both at QEGS and in her personal life. Kindness was at the heart of everything she did and she always put other people’s feelings before her own, no matter how much she tried not to!

“I speak on behalf of the whole QEGS community that Caley is dearly missed and will forever remain in our hearts”.

Hannah Chatterton

JANINE PHILIPS former QEGS Staff It is with deep regret and profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of Janine Phillips, a long-serving and much-loved member of our catering team, who retired only recently.

Janine was a truly lovely woman, remembered as much for her kindness, enthusiasm, and care for the boys as for her exceptional work in providing catering for students and staff in the Sixth Form Centre. Over the years, there will be few staff or pupils who did not have the pleasure of knowing her.

Her passing follows a short period of illness. For countless former pupils, many of whom she kept in touch with, “Janini’s,” as the Sixth Form Centre café was affectionately

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known, holds a very special place in their hearts.

That warmth and sense of belonging were a direct reflection of Janine herself.

She did far more than serve meals; she nurtured, supported, and encouraged all who came through those doors.

Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with her family and friends at this deeply difficult time. Janine’s presence, spirit, and care will be greatly missed, but her impact will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.

RICHARD DYSON (OS 1959) It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Richard Dyson, a dedicated educator and esteemed Headmaster of St Faith’s School in Cambridge from 1989 to 2002.

Richard Dyson attended Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School, Wakefield before pursuing his higher education at The University of Nottingham. Richard’s illustrious career in education began at Highgate School in London, where he showcased a remarkable blend of academic, musical, and sporting talents. His passion for fostering holistic development in pupils led him to assume the role of Headmaster at Wellingborough Junior School, before embarking on a transformative journey at St Faith’s in 1989. He then moved to Bronte School in Kent as Headmaster from 2003 to 2014 and subsequently, he was a much-valued member of the School’s Advisory Board.

During his notable tenure at St Faith’s, Richard spearheaded a series of exciting developments that left an indelible mark on the school. The introduction of the new Pre Prep department, the move towards coeducation, and the inauguration of Ashburton Hall were among the many milestones achieved under his leadership. Richard’s vision and dedication to educational excellence contributed significantly to shaping the school’s character and identity.

He embarked on everything that he did with a warmth, kindness and generosity of spirit that is remembered with great affection by so many of his former pupils and staff.

One of the remarkable moments during Richard Dyson’s time at St Faith’s was the hosting of the first reunion of Old Ashburtonians. In collaboration with the Revd Michael Harper, who had shared his St Faith’s schooldays at Ashburton in Devon during the Second World War, Richard brought together alumni in a celebration of shared memories and enduring connections.

JOHN ANTHONY HEMPSELL John, aged 82 years, died unexpectedly on Saturday 28th December 2024 at home.

A loving and proud Husband, Dad and Grandad, John will be sadly missed but fondly remembered by all his family and friends.

Richard Dyson’s legacy extends far beyond the school gates of St Faith’s, contributing positively to the lives of countless pupils, colleagues, and the wider community. His commitment to nurturing not only academic achievements, but also the personal and cultural growth of those under his care, has left an indelible imprint on the school and the values it promotes.

During his time at St Faith’s, Richard said, “The humbling responsibility of being here, but for a short period of time in the long history of the school, is a thrilling experience.

The school becomes a member of the family – a baby being taken through to adulthood, one hopes – but all the time it is important to remember that the school is bigger than any one individual”. Such was the humility of the man.

As we mourn the loss of a visionary educator, we also celebrate the generosity of Richard Dyson’s life—a life of vocation and service dedicated to shaping young minds and creating a nurturing environment for learning.

Our deepest sympathies and condolences go out to his wife Margie, their three children, Helen, Clare and Charles, their four grandchildren, Phoebe, Charlie, Harry and Wilfie and the rest of the Dyson family during this difficult time.

May Richard Dyson rest in eternal peace.

EDWARD PHILIP (PHIL) HARRISON (OS 1957) Beloved husband of Mary, loving father of Ian and Celia, father-in-law of Caroline and Andrew, proud grandfather of Matthew, Christopher, Megan and Edie, and grandfather-in-law of Samantha. Died peacefully on 17th June after a very short illness.

Queen Elizabeth Grammar School Wakefield, April 1957

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UPCOMING EVENTS We are very excited to announce a great programme of events.

All events can be booked online at www.qegsonline.org.uk

Old Savilians’ London Dinner 26th September 2025 The Lansdowne Club, 9 Fitzmaurice Place, W1J 5JD

Seasonal Drinks Reception 27th November 2025 Jubilee Hall, WGHS, Wakefield

Old Savilians’ Annual Dinner 19th December 2025 QE Hall, QEGS, Wakefield

Northern Social 11th March 2026 Leeds - venue to be announced

London Social 22nd April 2026 Central London - venue to be announced

London Lunch 23rd April 2026 Central London - venue to be announced

Cambridge Dinner 16th May 2026 Cambridge - venue to be announced

Old Savilians’ Golf Day 19th June 2026 Wakefield Golf Club

QEGS Development Office, 154 Northgate, Wakefield, WF1 3QX