The Reptonian 2017-18 by Repton School

The Reptonian 2017/2018

2017-2018 1

CONTENTS 8

Repton Round

THE EDITORIAL TEAM Editor

L. Pringle (L6P)

Sub-Editors JMJH, T. Miller (L6F), F. Cole (5F), P. Joshi (L6P), J. Leavesley (L6A), S. Cole (L6F), T. Purewal (L6A), L. Brown (L6N), S. Kundu (L6A)

Editorial

Features

Music

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Photography

Front and Back Cover

M. Wolford, JMJH, Ady Kerry, IJW, the Housemasters, GLH, O. Orgill, M. Krivonogov (5L), SMI, WGO, PAF M. Krivonogov (5L)

Design

Optima Graphic Design Consultants Ltd.

Pyramid Press

Repton School, Repton, Derby DE65 6FH Telephone 01283 559200 Email registrar@repton.org.uk

www.repton.org.uk

Drama

Art & Design

Sport

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Valete

EDITORIAL

The Reptonian 2017/2018

SALVETE TML

EDITORIAL PASSING FROM LOWER TO UPPER SCHOOL IS THE DEFINING TRANSFORMATION YOU EXPERIENCE AT REPTON. It’s a period of many changes, perhaps the most obvious being the most liked: not having to wear a blazer, the liberation of having free periods, the opening of the JCR – all are seen as among the highlights of the Sixth Form experience. You’ll see individuals that you have gone to school with for three or more years change dramatically, through A-Levels beginning, to follow their own paths in a way that the GCSE years never allowed. You’ll experience more work than you had faced before, yet, with it, more freedom than Repton had ever given you. You’ll develop a sense of authority; yet, with this, a sense of responsibility. All these are the gifts of the Senior years. Yet there is another change that occurs; one less material than the selection of a suit, one less quantifiable than two beers at House Dinner. It is the realisation that you have already experienced the majority of your time at Repton. When you pass the boundary of O-block, you suddenly have fewer years remaining than you have experienced. You leave behind the sense that Repton is endless. The idea of having five years of school ahead of you, like the B-blockers you see starting school nervously, is almost unthinkable. The end, for the first time, truly comes within sight. Different people will react to this news differently: for some, with unmitigated relief; and for some, with unparalleled fear. The thought will force all of us both to look forward and to look back. Looking forward, on the horizon, university looms, with all its promises of freedom and all its warnings of responsibility. Questions that once seemed like banal conversationstarters, ‘What do you want to do when you grow up?’, now become a regular part of self-examination. You begin to realise that what you do in these two years will shape the rest of your life in ways beyond understanding or consideration.

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Yet aside from these broad questions regarding the future, as your Repton experience draws to an end, you begin to consider the time you have spent so far within this school. The highlights and lowlights emerge in brilliant flashes: a winning goal in a house match, relationships and friendships both gained and lost,

laughter and stressing in the halls and rooms of each house. And a sensation emerges that can’t be pinned down easily – a nostalgia for a time you are currently living through. This sort of feeling will always occur when preparing to leave a place, as you become aware that you’re not just leaving the location, but leaving part of yourself behind in memory. When passing through the Arch for the last time, it won’t just be Repton that you leave behind, but every iteration of yourself that you experienced while in this village. Your B-block self, whether they were loud and confident or shy and nervous, will remain in Repton. Your GCSE self, whether enjoying the increased social freedom or swotting away towards exams, will remain in Repton. And your present self, full of hopes, ideas and worries, will forever be a part of your memory of Repton. Nowhere is this feeling more present than in The Reptonian. Each year’s issue acts as a snapshot: capturing the events and achievements of a community. When writing this Editorial, I took some time to read what past editors of this magazine had written. The archives, which extend back to 1866, contain the thoughts and considerations of hundreds of previous editors. They give perspectives on the starts of wars, the entrance of girls, the removal of boaters, and the passing of time. In all, there is the common desire to capture a part of the student culture, to preserve it for the future. So, what is there to do? Once we become aware of the temporary, passing nature of this Repton experience, we can only hope to make this memory the best it can be. Whether this is achieved in the Art studio, the sports pitches, the Theatre, the tennis courts, the English Department or the houses doesn’t matter. This school is diverse enough that we all go through it on our own path. The only direction we have is to make the best experience of it that we can, with the time we have left.

LUCAS PRINGLE (L6P) EDITOR

Tim Lewis joins the Physics Department and The Orchard as a tutor. He was educated at Shrewsbury School – Repton’s football rival – although he was more of a chess player. After a brief stint at Imperial College, where on Fresher’s Day he met his wife, Amanda, he graduated from Cardiff University with a Masters in Civil Engineering. Deciding to join the teaching profession, he completed his PGCE at the University of Nottingham. Tim is involved in both Cross Country and the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, having spent much of his youth in rural Wales hillwalking, camping and white water kayaking. He enjoys the Great Outdoors and, in recent years, has taken up running marathons and obstacle course races, as well as attempting to hone his culinary skills. He lives with his wife of 3 years and their plants. Celebrity lookalike? Belgian one-hit-wonder Gotye (except I am bit more handsome). What was your dream job as a child? In chronological order: explorer, pirate, archaeologist, magician, architect, engineer. What kind of pupil were you at school? The most irritating type – smart enough to do all right, but not smart enough to work hard! What advice would you give your teenage self? There’s light at the end of even the longest tunnels. What three people, living or dead, would you invite to a dinner party? Douglas Adams, Brian May and David Attenborough. Tell us one thing that your pupils wouldn’t expect about you. After leaving school, I spent a few months living in a tent on a Mediterranean beach, where I learned how to juggle, spin fire and walk a tightrope.

LRJ Lucy Jones is the latest member of the Biology Department, also taking an active role outside the classroom in DofE and Netball, and tutoring in The Garden. She was educated at Concord College, Shrewsbury, before completing her Biology degree at Newcastle University, followed by a PGCE at Manchester University. After teaching English for a brief period in Madrid, Lucy taught at Ashby School before being appointed by Repton. In addition to her teaching commitments, Lucy has completed several half-marathons and enjoys travelling in order to explore new countries – indeed, a highlight of her travels was a six-month venture after her degree. Lucy also has a passion for baking, her signature bake being chocolate brownies of a perfect consistency! We welcome both Lucy and her husband, Gareth, to the Repton community. Celebrity lookalike? When I was younger, Drew Barrymore (as a child). What kind of pupil were you at school? The pupil who always reminded the teacher about prep! What was the worst thing you did as a child? I persuaded my best friend to paint my parents’ bathroom in foundation – what a waste of foundation! What advice would you give to your teenage self? My advice would definitely be to stress less about exams and to make the most of the opportunities given to you. Which three people, living or dead, would you invite to a dinner party? Meryl Streep, Barack Obama, Bear Grylls. Name one book, one film and one music album you would take if you were to be stranded on a desert island for a year. The Improbability of Love (Rothschild); Inside Man; any musical theatre album!

SALVETE

The Reptonian 2017/2018

DJR Daniel Rogers is a welcome addition to the History Department, as well as coaching all three major boys’ sports and tutoring initially in The Priory and latterly as New House’s Resident Tutor. Educated at Taunton School and Royal Holloway, University of London, Dan worked for two years at All Hallows’ Prep School before moving to Repton, where he is enjoying the various challenges of teaching older pupils and broadening his teaching experience. An avid fan of Crystal Palace Football Club, he follows their highs and lows (mostly lows!) as much as possible. With perhaps more enjoyment, he plays hockey when he can (not so much since starting at Repton!), watches Somerset play cricket in the summer months, and makes semi-regular trips to the theatre Celebrity lookalike? Ron Weasley / Ben Watson. What was your dream job as a child? Footballer, or football manager. What was the worst thing you did as a child? I once demanded my mum make me an omelette, in very nasty and rude way. I still regret it to this day… What advice would you give to your teenage self? Don’t try and impress anyone; just be yourself. Name one book, one film and one music album you would take if you were to be stranded on a desert island for a year. Alice in Wonderland; Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind; Stay Gold (First Aid Kit).

DSF Dr David Farrow came to Repton having completing a PhD in Aerospace Engineering at Emmanuel College, Cambridge. His distinguished academic career began in Scotland at Bearsden Academy, where he spent his childhood aspiring to be a pilot. Since joining Repton, he has taken on several roles within the School, principally as a Maths teacher; however, this is combined with helping on Duke of Edinburgh expeditions and tutoring in New House. When not teaching, Dr Farrow has an assortment of hobbies, including mountaineering, playing the French horn and cycling. Sadly, David is leaving us after one year to do his PGCE: we wish him all the best for the future. Who is your celebrity lookalike? Andy Murray. What was your dream job as a child? Pilot. What was the worst thing you did as a child? Unpublishable… Which three people, living or dead, would you invite to a dinner party? Amelia Earhart, Barack Obama, Gwen Moffat. Name one book, one film and one music album would take if you were to be stranded on a desert island for a year. What If?: Serious Scientific Answers to Absurd Hypothetical Questions (Munro); The Artist; On the Road (Skerryvore). Tell us one thing that your pupils wouldn’t expect about you. I’ve been the first person to reach the top of a few mountains.

New Mathematics teacher and Mitre Resident Tutor, Stella d’Arch Smith, is no stranger to the School, having been educated at Foremarke and Repton herself. From there, she read a BEng degree at the University of Liverpool and taught at Cheadle Hulme High School and Marple Hall, Stockport, as part of her teacher-training qualification. In addition to her teaching and tutoring roles, Stella coaches girls’ hockey and girls’ football, while away from the classroom her life revolves mostly around sport – rowing, cycling, running – although she occasionally finds time to renovate her house, see her partner, Tom (an academic at the University of Manchester), and walk her dogs, Kai and Tia. Stella is loving being back in The Mitre most of all – “so much fun and feels like home!”. What was your dream job as a child? I wanted to own a bike shop. I was always in the garden, taking my bike to bits and rebuilding it.

What advice would you give to your teenage self? Don’t give the emo look a go again.

NAF Neil Fannon joined the English Department for one year, covering CCC’s maternity leave, as well as becoming the Resident Tutor in The Priory. He has an MA in English from St Andrews, a Masters in International Relations from Madrid and did his PGCE in Edinburgh. Neil has enjoyed coaching the U15 C football team and helping out with the Hope and Homes charity – developed by an Old Reptonian’s parents, with orphanages around the world. As well as his love for literature and languages, Neil enjoys going to the gym and playing a number of different sports. A long-term love is travelling: he lived in Japan for 6 years, teaching ESL, and then Shanghai for a year, teaching literature. Hong Kong and Thailand are among his other favourite places and he hopes to travel to Argentina or Chile in the near future. We wish Neil well in his new job at Bradfield College from September.

What was your dream job as a child? When I was very little, I wanted to be a vet… a fly vet! What was the worst thing you did as a child? When I was three, I vaguely remember stamping and crushing the video-tape box of Sleeping Beauty because I was angry at the character Maleficent. What advice would you give to your teenage self? To follow your passions and try to learn as many languages as possible, because they open up so many brilliant opportunities.

Name one book, one film and one music album you would take if you were to be stranded on a desert island for a year. How to Build a Raft; any Harry Potter film; Queen’s Greatest Hits. Tell us one thing that your pupils wouldn’t expect about you? When I was younger, I had a Goth phase and I am still obsessed with the colour black.

OLIVIA MITCHELL (U6A)

Celebrity lookalike? Many people have mentioned Zachary Quinto. Also, I have been unfavourably referred to as ‘Luis Suarez’… What was your dream job as a child? RAF pilot. What advice would you give to your teenage self? Learn more Chinese; make some good investments; start lifting weights!

Which three people, living or dead, would you invite to a dinner party? Valentino Rossi, Jimmy Hendrix, Princess Diana.

Which three people, living or dead, would you invite to a dinner party? Ibn Battuta, Alexander the Great, Zheng He (and a translator).

Name one book, one film and one music album you would take if you were to be stranded on a desert island for a year? Big book of sudoku puzzles; Grease; Radio 1’s Live Lounge.

Name one book, one film and one music album would take if you were to be stranded on a desert island for a year? Heart of Darkness (Conrad); Lost In Translation; 10,000 Days (Tool).

Tell us one thing that your pupils wouldn’t expect about you? My favourite animals are cows.

Tell us one thing that your pupils wouldn’t expect about you? I think Physics is more interesting than Literature. (Literature is still interesting though!)

We thank Laurie for spending her gap year at Repton and wish her bon chance for the future.

CELIA LI (U6A)

AMELIA ADAMS-O’RORKE (5A)

What kind of pupil were you at school? Better be careful here! Lots of my teachers still work at Repton!

Laurie Veron is the Assistante in the MFL Department, helping and guiding our French linguists to improve their speaking skills. Having been educated in Paris, Laurie decided to follow her passion for languages and undertake a degree in English and Spanish. She is currently completing her degree at La Sorbonne University and is using her gap year at Repton as a chance to further improve her English. As well as being a language enthusiast, Laurie enjoys baking and, although she confesses to loving all the tasty treats she makes, her signature dish is cinnamon rolls! Laurie is also a fan of theme parks and roller-coasters (having been to Disneyland more than ten times!) and has already experienced the thrills of Alton Towers.

What three people, living or dead, would you invite to a dinner party? Freddy Mercury, Socrates, Jesus.

Tell us one thing that your pupils wouldn’t expect about you? My Catholic middle name, that I chose for myself, is Raphael-Steven.

SDAS

REPTON ROUND 8

WE HAVE SO MUCH TIME AND SO LITTLE TO DO. STRIKE THAT, REVERSE IT. Hans Christian Andersen

REPTON ROUND

The Reptonian 2017/2018

HOUSE REPORTS

THE GARDEN What was the best moment in the House, this year? Winning Senior House Hockey in both 2016 and 2018 and winning the Cattley Shield – a brilliant achievement for the whole House. What was the funniest moment? Our dance-offs after House Unison! What has changed the most in your time in the House? The Matrons. What will you miss most about your House? The friendly, family atmosphere of the House and all the girls and house staff within it.

THE CROSS

FIELD HOUSE

What was the best moment in the House this year? Winning both swimming events as a house: the start of a successful year.

What was the best moment in the House, this year? The events following our U6 House Dinner.

NEW HOUSE

What was the funniest moment? Dress to Impress Day. Almost the whole year-group in Cross U6 dressed up as retro scooter guys: all day we scootered around the school, JGG hot on our heels…!

What was the funniest moment? Playing Mafia as a year group, and almost ending up killing each other.

What was the best moment in the House, this year? There have been many positives this year, but the most memorable has to be the effort given to the Unison after-party, after a strong performance singing ‘The Flood’.

What has changed the most in your time in the House? We have had a major refurbishment and a change of Housemaster (but still retained our strong house unity). What will you miss most about your House? The people that make The Cross what it is: pupils, friends, tutors – but especially those in the background, the domestic staff that put a lot of time and effort into making the house run smoothly and looking after us all.

What has changed the most in your time in the House? The dynamic of our year-group: five years later, we have all finally learnt how to get on. What will you miss most about your House? The family atmosphere, because it is so difficult to ever feel lonely.

What advice have you got for a new member of your House? Work hard, play hard and make friends for life.

What advice have you got for a new member of your House? Your time at Repton will go so quickly – so make the most of it!

JAMES PARTON (U6C)

HANNAH DAVEY (U6F)

What was the funniest moment? It has to be between the Dress to Impress theme of pimps and the hilarious low-budget Secret Santa gifts. What has changed the most in your time in the House? Over the past five years in New House, the relationship between the older years and the Juniors has improved; there is a greater sense of togetherness in the House. What will you miss most about your House? The brotherly bond between the U6 and the memories we have collectively made at Repton. What advice have you got for a new member of your House? Get stuck in! Your time at Repton will go so quickly, so be yourself, seize all the opportunities available and make the most of what’s on offer.

LUKE TANDY (U6N)

What advice have you got for a new member of your House? To make the most of all of the opportunities you have in The Garden: get involved in the House events and enjoy all of the treats nights!

LAUREN ARCHER (U6G)

THE ABBEY What was the best moment in the House, this year? The double-win at Unison. What was the funniest moment? Abbey memes (except Liv Mitchell’s). What has changed the most in your time in the House? The Matrons. What will you miss most about your House? The house spirit and chats in the Link. What advice have you got for a new member of your House? Label your mug!

PIPPA COOMBS (U6A)

THE MITRE What was the best moment in the House, this year? The week we refilled the trophy cabinet, winning Barnes Squad, Senior Steep and Russell Cup.

LATHAM HOUSE What was the best moment in the House, this year? Winning House Harmony. What was the funniest moment? Every week getting to listen to Finn Redfern give various excuses to SOM about why he hasn’t been to sport. What has changed the most in your time in the House? I think the atmosphere in the House has become more relaxed in recent years, which has made the House an even better place to be. What will you miss most about your House? The people. Not just my friends, but the Merlins and RGDR. What advice have you got for a new member of your House? Make friends and make the most of it.

MATTHEW JANKINSON (U6L)

What was the funniest moment? The U6 rendition of ‘Away in a Manger’ for the House Carol Competition. It included two baby Jesuses and gifts of Lynx Africa and Jack Wills body spray... What has changed the most in your time in the House? Not much has stayed the same – most notably our House tutors. What will you miss most about your House? Having a corridor full of advice and support: not always what we wanted to hear, but definitely what we needed to hear. What advice have you got for a new member of your House? The more you put into the House, the more it has to give back. (And you get trophies.)

GEORGIE BROWNHILL & MADDI LEA (U6M)

REPTON ROUND

The Reptonian 2017/2018

SOCIETIES

THE ORCHARD What was the best moment in the House, this year? There have been a lot of good moments, but I think one of the best was House Unison: we might not have the best singers, but it’s great when the boys really come together and work as a group, giving everything they can on stage. What was the funniest moment? Secret Santa on the last day of the Michaelmas Term: under a tight budget, everyone put thought into providing a comical present. What has changed the most in your time in the House? The sense of community in the House is certainly stronger than ever. The Orchard allows friendships to form, regardless of year group or general interest.

What will you miss most about your House? Of course, I will miss everyone, but I cannot deny that I will probably miss the House support team the most, especially when I have to face doing all of my own cooking, washing and cleaning next year! What advice have you got for a new member of your House? I would tell any new member of The Orchard that, during their time in the House, they will be presented with so many opportunities: they should try to take advantage of as many as possible.

MERLIN FERRINHO (U6O)

THE GEOGRAPHICAL SOCIETY THE PRIORY What was the best moment in the House, this year? The Steeplechase is always a big event for The Priory, and managing to win in both age groups was a really proud moment.

What advice have you got for a new member of your House? It is rare that you can take part in activities – sport, music and drama – to such a high standard in both house and school. Don’t take it for granted.

THE LITERARY SOCIETY

SAM RILEY (U6P)

What was the funniest moment? Keeping up the cross-dressing tradition in Unison as Bond girls – with Tom Coleman channelling Pussy Galore! What has changed the most in your time in the House? How quickly Ruaraidh can run 100m. What will you miss most about your House? The sense of community, close friendships and the support network in all aspects of school life. What advice have you got for a new member of your House? The friendships you make in the House are what you’ll value most from Repton when you finish.

CHARLIE WILBRAHAM (U6S)

The third lecture of the year, in the Lent Term, was given by Mr Nigel Vardy, also known as “Mr Frostbite”. In May 1999, Mr Vardy (no relation of the footballer, Jamie!) almost froze to death in a severe storm, high on the slopes of Mt McKinley, Alaska. Having been exposed to temperatures as low as -60°C, Mr Vardy explained to the students, with the accompaniment of photographs, how he lost his fingers, toes and nose to frostbite. His story, whilst remarkable, exposed the harsh reality of certain environments that exist on the planet and gave a whole new dimension to the study of glacial systems. However, his recounting of the determination he showed in learning to walk again was as inspirational as it was impressive – and something I am hopeful the students will long remember.

What will you miss most about your House? Toast, tea and coffee in the common room at break.

What has changed the most in your time in the House? The carpets and curtains have been replaced. We can’t say the same for the showers.

What was the best moment in the House, this year? Making it to the finals of all three Senior Football competitions and getting disqualified from the raft-building in the Russell Cup.

of the number of people who are affected by natural hazards.

In the Michaelmas Term, we welcomed Dr Rob Parker, from Durham University, who spoke about the relationship between earthquakes and landslides and what can be done to prevent fatalities from occurring in the most deprived and, somewhat inconveniently, mountainous areas in the world. The students were shown a number of short films throughout the lecture that really brought to life the power of such hazards and the devastating impact they can have on communities. Towards the end of term, we were also treated to a workshop at Manchester University, hearing Dr Ian Stewart discuss the monitoring of tectonically-active areas and how government policy is a key determinant

What was the funniest moment? Picking up Priory’s first award ever in House Unison was amazing (and a total surprise), and NFP’s post-win celebration was definitely the funniest moment of the year.

SCHOOL HOUSE

Another year has passed, as frantic as ever for the Geographers. Whilst trying to negotiate their way through a new and significantly more demanding A-Level specification, they have also been treated to a wide variety of lectures from guest speakers.

For yet another year, the Repton Literary Society has provided an outlet for those who want to go beyond the limits of the English A-Level course. Meeting regularly in The Abbey common room, the Society has provided a myriad of offerings to those with an interest in drama, literature, or simply having free food at nine o’clock. The first text discussed this year was Fight Club by Chuck Palahniuk, a stellar example of modern American fiction. A fascinating discussion ensued once the book was finished, centring on the political philosophy of the work, to what extent it was a satire of masculinity, and whether its portrayal of femininity and female characters was liberating or denigrating. There was also a series of trips to the theatre: most crucially, to see the Royal Shakespeare Company perform Hamlet and The Duchess of Malfi. These enthralling interpretations of the works, the former set in post-colonial Africa and the latter on a blood-soaked stage, provided not only vast entertainment

RGDR HEAD OF GEOGRAPHY

for all on the trip, but also an additional insight for those who were studying the texts as part of their course. One of the unexpected highlights from the Society this year was a talk by the Headmaster on book-collecting. Delivered in the warm setting of The Abbey’s private side, WMAL toured the society through his love of reading, from Graham Greene to Dostoevsky, and then allowed us to view and handle some extremely rare works that he had collected over the years. Texts as diverse as an original copy of the Kinsey Reports on Sexual Behaviour to an original Greene were discussed and read from, in what was a wonderful, insightful evening.

THE CHESS CLUB The recent birth of the Chess Club and the new prizes offered has raised the profile of the House Chess Competition, so the final, between Latham and Cross, was a highly-anticipated game. Each team comprised three members, the team winning the most boards winning the match. In the case of a tie, the highest winning board would win overall. On Board Three, Cross played Black against Latham, White. This was a back-and-forth game, the classical opening developing into the French Defence from both sides. Cross won, Latham making an error in the wake of a miscalculation of an attack, losing their queen. Board Two had Cross playing as White and Latham as Black. This was an interesting game, which saw White being forced to move their king into a risky position, KE1,KE2, after a failed counter-attack. The game soon ended after a combined attack on the F7 pawn that saw White’s queen, bishop and knight take advantage of a mistake by Black on move four. Board One saw Cross playing as Black and Latham as White. Here, the best two players in the school faced off, with a variation of the four-move checkmate played by White and the advanced opening, the Sicilian Dragon, played as a counter by Black. The game proceeded with control of the centre board, while White attacked the weak F7 pawn. However, this game was secured in Black’s favour when White’s queen moved too far into Black’s side of the board to F5 and Black cleverly blocked the queen in with his pawns and both bishops on D6 and D7. White did attempt a counter-attack with the two remaining rooks: however, this was shut down with Black’s queen-side rook controlling the centre F file. The match therefore ended 3-0 to The Cross.

LUCAS BERGER (L6C)

The Society has lived up, this year, to its role: providing an outlet and extension for those with an interest in literature of any kind. Thanks, as always, must go to KJC for providing the supervision, food and insight that allows the Society to flourish.

ALICE EARWICKER (U6A) SOCIETY SECRETARY

REPTON ROUND

The Reptonian 2017/2018

THE MARRIOTT SOCIETY With the world facing an uncertain political future, Politics has rarely been so divisive yet so gripping a subject: the increasing tensions between the United States and North Korea, ongoing Brexit negotiations, the increasing threat of terrorism, not to mention the character that is Donald Trump. The Society was honoured to welcome Matthew Parris, the political writer and broadcaster and former Conservative MP, at the end of last year. He spoke of the difficulties he has faced during his career due to being gay and recalled his experiences at Yale University in the US. The diversity of opinion regarding Trump has allowed for a surge of political interest from the younger generation, and so it was fascinating to hear Parris’ view of American society. He spoke about how the public response to politics has evolved drastically throughout his career, with social media providing a platform by which to educate ourselves and participate in day to day politics. However, despite this readily-available form of participation, we still experience a decline in electoral turnout, suggesting an overall increase in voter apathy. We also welcomed Martin Marriott, the grandson of Sir John Marriott (after whom the Society is named). He spoke graciously

THE ECONOMICS SOCIETY The Economics Society, this year, has offered opportunities for students with a passion or interest for the subject to move beyond the A-Level course. These opportunities ranged from speakers to trips, and covered a wide-ranging set of topics. In the Michaelmas Term, the Society was fortunate to have two charismatic and experienced speakers from industry to address the pupils on economic issues in their specialist areas. Rowan Ewart-White, Managing Director at Storm Research, which specialises in Japanese Equities, addressed the group, detailing his hugely varied and interesting career. He provided insights and valuable advice as to how students might consider career decisions and tips for ‘selling yourself’ to prospective employers. He also explained the positioning of his firm in financial markets and gave some interesting thoughts on recent Japanese economics. Simon French (OR), who is Chief Economist

of his grandfather’s career, most notably being MP for York for 6 years and becoming an Honorary Fellow of Oxford University. Martin also spoke of his own accomplished career path, becoming a proclaimed author and setting up a successful foundation, funding private education for less-privileged students. Martin provided a unique outlook on the political agenda, explaining that, in the modern day, politicians are so heavily ridiculed and criticised and yet they provide the personality and the character that grasps the attention of the electorate like never before, driving us to politically educate ourselves even further. Social media provides a diversity of opinion by which the public can freely, and democratically, construct and publicise their own views – an advantage that is often overlooked by the press in everyday politics. In the first weeks of the Summer Term, we were lucky enough to have the current Labour MP for Chesterfield, Toby Perkins, come and speak to us. Toby holds a wealth of political experience, having previously sat on numerous Select Committees, and, in recent years, has held the positions of Shadow Minister for Education, Small Business and Defence. It was thoughtprovoking to hear the views of a current

at Panmure Gordon (an investment bank), delivered a wide-ranging talk on the state of Economics as a profession. His initial focus was on the skills required of modern Economists and it is clear that prospective employees in this field need to be forensic in their attention to detail and be able to articulate complicated ideas clearly. He went on to take Q&A on current issues facing the profession, such as inequality, automation, debt and crypto-currencies. Both talks were very well-attended. The Society took two trips: one to Cambridge and one to Warwick University. At Warwick, the group of Sixth-Formers saw four lectures, with topics ranging from labour markets to the price of oil. A particularly fascinating talk tackled the subject of nudges – one of the most interesting new ideas in the field of behavioural economics. Following this was the trip to the annual Marshall Society Conference, held in the Cambridge Student Union. Students from the Sixth Form visited for a day of lectures on the subject of ‘Ideanomics’. With speakers ranging from experts on frontier markets in Africa, to Meghnad Desai, member of the House of Lords, the day provided a fresh take on the theory learnt in the classroom by experts in the field. The

politician on pressing issues such as Brexit, the situation in Russia, or whether the airstrikes in Syria are justified. As a Society and a School, we are extremely privileged to welcome speakers who represent contrasting positions on the political spectrum: this has allowed students to freely form political viewpoints, which we can confidently explain and utilise in daily life. I truly believe that there has never been such a fitting time for young people to get themselves involved in politics so easily and so effectively. The Marriott Society has provided a means by which I have fed my political thought and interest, and it has certainly influenced my Higher Education choices. So, I would say to any of my peers: even if you choose not to progress with Politics beyond the Arch, the skills encouraged through the Society – critical thinking, tolerance of other perspectives, developing depth and breadth of thought, and presenting and discussing one’s own ideas confidently – are those that are useful across all career choices. I hope to see the Society continue to flourish; Politics sure gets my vote!

SOPHIA HUDSON (U6M) SOCIETY SECRETARY

quality of the speakers ensured that the trip was worth the long drive down to Cambridge and was thoroughly enjoyed by all the students in attendance.

MARCUS TARRANT (L6S) & PARRAS JOSHI (L6P)

THE DEBATING SOCIETY

IT WOULDN’T BE RIGHT TO START A ROUND-UP OF REPTON DEBATING WITHOUT ADMITTING THAT IT IS A STRANGE HOBBY. Having been given a motion that could range from ‘privatising the oceans’ to ‘banning sexist literature’, you and your partner scribble all the arguments you can think of for merely 15 minutes before entering the chamber. Pronouns are given, the ‘Prime Minister’ is welcomed, and the Judges sit patiently as you take to the lectern to deliver what is (hopefully) a coherent fiveminute ramble. For some, the thought is actively terrifying (and for some simply confusing), but Repton has managed to make it yet another talent in the School’s armoury. To see this in action, every Wednesday and Friday the Debating Society can be found haunting the English Department, showcasing Repton’s most sophisticated arguing. In the curiously archaic style of British Parliamentary, Reptonians discuss the problems of today in the same format used by politicians for hundreds of years. The highlight of the in-school Debating calendar has to be the House Debating Tournament, each house sending forth its best, brightest or loudest to compete. This year the final was a tense stand-off between The Priory (Lucas Pringle and Sam Riley), School House (Marcus Tarrant and Charlie Wilbraham), Field House (Serena Cole and Immy Nieper) and The Orchard (Callum Inman and Jacob Davies), as the motion ‘This House would, as the wizarding world, reveal itself to the Muggles’ was debated. A tense match resulted in a victory for The Orchard, a decision that the author of this article won’t comment on for obvious reasons. However, the highlight for the Society will always come in the external competitions. While they lack the casual nature of the Repton-based debates, the standard of performance and fascinating individuals that are seen at these inter-school events make them the high-point of the year. Last year set a tough standard to beat – Repton

winning its first national title and competing in the Oxford and Cambridge Finals. Yet, in usual style, the team continued to progress, putting on this year arguably the best performance in the team’s continuing history. With a top-ten finish in both the Manchester and Birmingham Nationals, the team was off to a good start. Then, in a new development, Repton hosted its first ever competition: the regional qualifier for the ESU Mace. Arguing against the cutting of pay for elected officials, Eloise Harris (U6M) and I won the first Repton heat, before sadly not qualifying for the National Final in an outrageous judges’ decision. Not to be offset, Jack Pollard (U6L) and I, and Jacob Davies (5O) and I, were placed first in the respective regional qualifiers for the Oxford and Cambridge tournaments, putting Repton yet again in the National Finals for the biggest debating competitions of the year. As a side note, due to a calendar clash causing us to miss the Nottingham Nationals this year, technically Repton remain the undefeated National Champions of this tournament. At Cambridge, Jacob and I faced some of the most difficult competition yet, but, in spite of this, managed to attain Repton’s top performance to date, finishing 15th out of the hundreds of schools who entered the competition from around the world. Only one week later, the Oxford Finals saw a tougher competition, with more teams, resulting in a top-30 finish, although, with nine points, we attained a higher total than Repton had attained at any Oxbridge Finals day up to this point! This was all the warm-up, of course, to the finale: the Durham Debating Tournament. Across two days, and with four teams in tow, Repton again put on some of its top performances. With motions ranging from the banning of private military contractors to merit-based welfare systems, every team

put in a fantastic effort against some of the toughest competition we had faced. While we narrowly missed out on qualifying for the Open Quarter-finals, the team was able to pick up possibly an even greater accolade: beating off stiff competition to win the Durham International Debating Tournament’s Pub Quiz! Pub quizzes aside, it was brilliant to see, this year, so many new members of the Society performing to such a high standard: in particular, at Durham, Leo Parry (5C), in his first ever tournament, attained the highest overall score and qualified for the Novice Semi-final. Despite being denied a place in the Grand Final, Leo delivered a brilliant speech on the topic ‘This House would institute a 100% tax on income above £1 million’ that deserves recognition. This, in addition to the performances of Georgia Armour (L6G), Rika Canaway (L6G), Tia Purewal (L6A), Izzy Swales (L6A), Serena Cole (L6F), Jacob Davies and Callum Inman (5O), all of whom attained wins in their first year of competitive debating. Yet, while as a society we have attained a series of brilliant wins this year, we are also faced with a substantial loss: ARC has been working with the Society for three seasons, as head coach for the last two, helping it grow from one of the fringe groups that was consistently beaten by the Titans of the schools’ circuit, to a team that consistently holds its own amongst the top schools in the country. This progression is not simply natural growth; rather, stimulated, encouraged and developed by ARC, JDS (and their predecessors) in each Wednesday and Friday session. On behalf of the current team and previous Secretaries, I would like to thank him for all his hard work and support – and we’re looking forward to the first ‘friendly’ against Benenden!

LUCAS PRINGLE SOCIETY SECRETARY

REPTON ROUND

THE MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES SOCIETY The MFL Society has again had a great year, with a series of inspiring talks, fun workshops and even some external success. With the outright majority of the school taking at least one language in some capacity, the Society has been able to offer a wide variety of options to suit the breadth of not only experience, but also languages! This year, more than ever, the Society has tried to get external speakers in to either show how they use their languages in their everyday lives, or emphasise the benefits of learning a language. One of these came in the form of an OR, Ben Donovan (S’11), who came and inspired the School’s budding linguists, talking enthusiastically about the pros and cons of taking Modern Languages at university. Everyone particularly enjoyed hearing about his plans for the future, showing languages may not need to be the main feature of someone’s career plan, but can contribute to a colourful, exciting career. Paul Hughes, a prolific motivational speaker, who has made a career out of inspiring young people to learn languages, came and spoke to the younger years, successfully engaging them in the importance of the languages they learn here. This year has also seen the MFL Society get involved with three separate competitions – with a whole lot of success, might I add! Firstly, a group of B-block’s most promising language students represented the School at the Going Global Competition at the University of Nottingham – a competition that seeks to highlight and promote the importance of languages in international business. The team performed amazingly, finishing as runners-up – an incredible achievement. Then came the European Commission’s own ‘Juvenes Translatores’ (literally ‘young translators’) Competition, in which U6 French students had to do an extended translation of a complex piece of French literature in timed conditions. However, the highlight of the Society’s success was at the UK Linguistics Olympiad – a competition split over two age-groups that tests candidates’ ability to use linguistic logic and reason to decipher complex languages that are more-thanforeign to English-speaking eyes. Repton’s Finn Redfern (U6L) made it to the final 16 in the country and went on to compete for the chance to represent the UK at the International Linguistics Olympiad. As well as entering some amazing and stimulating competitions, and listening to inspiring speakers, the Society runs more relaxed themed evenings throughout the year, this year’s events including a Spanish night and a German music night, the stand-out moment from the latter being CRW’s near-perfect rendition of ‘Einmal um die Welt’ by Cro (a German rapper) and NJK’s accompaniment… A huge thank you must go to CRW herself, for the hours that go into planning the Society’s events, and for being so incredibly motivating and encouraging for every language student in the School.

The Reptonian 2017/2018

THE MEDICAL SOCIETY This year, MedSoc, popular as ever, has had a varied and filled calendar, including visiting speakers, workshops at the school and trips to conventions. We were lucky enough to have Mr Mark Hatton provide a fascinating talk on ‘Mending Broken Bones’: this was an engaging lecture, giving a real insight into the life of an orthopaedic surgeon; his interactive bone repair demonstration was thoroughly enjoyed by participants and observers alike. On another evening, we were joined by Dr Caroline Poulter, whose speciality is paediatric medicine. Her talk gave us a flavour of her life as a junior paediatric doctor and introduced us all to the intricacies of performing CPR on a baby, complete with a model baby to practise on! She concluded with some extremely practical advice on applications and hints and tips on interviews for medical school – true gold-dust for the aspiring medical students in the audience! The various trips included a visit to the Royal Derby Hospital, where pupils were able to learn about the diverse careers available in the NHS. Lectures covered the areas of emergency medicine, surgery, pharmacy and applying to medicine. A different perspective on similar topics was provided at the ‘Becoming a Doctor’ conference in Manchester, where there were stalls set out by many of the UK’s Medical Schools and Royal Colleges. The

PHYSICS: BEYOND THE BOUNDARIES IT HAS BEEN A BUSY AND EXCITING YEAR FOR REPTON’S PHYSICISTS, WITH A NUMBER OF SUCCESSES IN COMPETITIONS AND SPECIAL EVENTS. opportunity to see a fully synthetic cadaver used for demonstrations and taking blood from a synthetic arm were particular hits with Reptonians! This trip (and the brief stop for a Five Guys on the way home) was thoroughly enjoyed by all. Back inside the Repton bubble, we have also enjoyed dissection evenings, investigating the differences between mammalian and amphibian anatomy, comparing frogs with a piglet. At the time of writing, we are also eagerly anticipating the hands-on bone workshop with Professor Rohan Rajan, scheduled for the Summer Term. MedSoc has been exciting and inspirational, and thanks must go to SMI for the time and effort he puts into making sure the Society is so helpful to so many. I am sure MedSoc will continue to educate and flourish under his care and I would strongly encourage anyone considering a healthcare profession to attend. Lastly, I would like to wish best of luck not only to the U6 aspiring medics, who will soon be embarking on the next step of their careers, but also to all Reptonians considering a healthcare career in the future.

IZZY HURREN (U6A) SOCIETY SECRETARY

CROSS-CURRICULAR ENGINEERING PROJECT (SPACE BALLOON) A team of U6 Physicists took Repton to space this year, as part of the Engineering Cross-Curricular Excellence Programme. Over the course of the Michaelmas Term, nine students managed the logistics, design, construction and launch of a helium balloon equipped with a range of apparatus as it ascended to ‘near space’, reaching an altitude of around 28,000m. The team, led by Tom Hvass (U6O), programmed an on-board computer with sensors to record temperature, air pressure and the strength of the Earth’s magnetic field throughout the flight. The recovered video footage shows stunning views of the December sunrise above a layer of nimbostratus cloud and, as the balloon ascends through the stratosphere above the traffic from East Midlands Airport, the curvature of the Earth is visible.

VELODROME Repton’s U6 Physicists visited Derby Velodrome to put into practice their work on circular motion and rotational mechanics. They calculated the minimum speed a cyclist has to travel to make it around the banked curve of the track without falling off, before testing the theory during a coached session on track bikes. The only major crash of the day was initiated by the Head of Physics, who clearly wasn’t able to apply Newton’s Laws to stopping a fixed-wheel bike!

LUDVIK OBSERVATORY When clear skies have allowed, many Reptonians have been able to make use of the Ludvik Observatory, situated on top of the Science Priory. A particular highlight was the ‘super moon’ at the end of January, which a number of pupils and staff came to observe.

COMPETITIONS Amber Harcus (5A), Katie Fulford (5F), Alex Berger (5F), Kahina Chaibi (4G) and Sarah Murphy (5M) attended the East Midlands round of the National Space Design Competition, in which they had to design a settlement on the moon in larval tubes. The girls were part of the winning team and went through to the National round of the competition. Alex and Katie were also finalists in the Talent2030 Girls in Engineering Competition, winning the Best Presentation prize at the Big Bang Fair, hosted at the NEC. Several pupils entered the AS and full Physics Olympiad challenge, with seven Reptonians winning medals. Special mention goes to Jichuan Zhang (L6L), who achieved Gold in the AS Challenge – the first Reptonian to do so for a number of years – and was placed in the top 4% of all entrants.

MWTH & TML

TOM COLEMAN (U6S), SOCIETY SECRETARY

THE REPTILES The Reptiles, Repton’s resident close-harmony singing group, has enjoyed a busy year of crunchy chords and mellifluous melodies. The highlights include a memorable performance of Queen’s ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ (complete with modest head-banging) at the House Harmonies competition, and an entertaining a cappella rendition of ‘In the Hall of the Mountain King’ at the Michaelmas Concert. The group was also up bright and early on May 10th to mark Ascension Day on the roof of the Science Priory. Various exciting events, and a short tour, are planned for next academic year.

AA, HEAD OF SINGING

REPTON ROUND

The Reptonian 2017/2018

THE A-BLOCK BATTLEFIELDS TRIP At 6:55am on the Friday morning before October Half-Term, 35 sleepy A-block students sat on a bus, on their way to Northern France and the battlefields of WW1. After a long journey, spent by most asleep, we arrived at our first destination, the preserved Bayernwald trench system. It was one of my favourite places, as it gave an insight into what it would have been like to live in the trenches. However, we were blessed with amazing weather, so did not get ‘the full experience’. We spent a while exploring the trenches and learning about the Ypres salient: it was strange to think that we were walking in the same places as German soldiers attacking the town of Ypres 100 years ago, and even that Adolf Hitler had been stationed in these same trenches.

After a lovely evening meal and ice-cream in the town centre, we visited the Menin Gate and took part in the Last Post ceremony, which has been performed every single night since 1928 and was very moving. Three pupils even got to lay a wreath on behalf of the 355 fallen Reptonians from the War. The Menin Gate was the first big war memorial most of us had seen and was very touching: there were 55,000 names inscribed on the walls and it showed that, even now, there are many soldiers still lost, whose bodies will never be found or identified. The next day started at the Sheffield Memorial Park, where we finally started to get a grasp of the devastation caused on the Somme. There are nearly 450 separate cemeteries around the Somme, showing the grand scale of the casualties. We also sat in the front lines and saw how close the German trenches were, which was eerie, especially as, in the woods just behind us, there were massive shell holes still left from the Germans’ artillery. That day we also visited Newfoundland Park, and learnt more about trench construction and the terrible loss Newfoundlanders faced and how it destroyed their independence from Canada. That afternoon, we finally learnt the destructive power of explosives. We visited the Lochnagar Crater, which is 98ft deep and 330ft wide, but the most shocking statistic was that the debris flew 4,000 feet into the air!

The destination for Day Two was the Thiepval Memorial to the missing – the 72,195 men who died in the Battle of the Somme and had no known grave. For us, it was even more impressive than the Menin Gate; it seemed less grand, as if not celebrating the war but, instead, honouring those who died. The most touching factor was the use of red brick, which represented the red brick houses from which most of the soldiers had come. The final day began with a visit to Langemark, one of the few German cemeteries in the area. Over 44,000 soldiers are buried there. To our shock, it was revealed that one patch of grass, smaller than a tennis court, is a mass grave of nearly 25,000 men. Langemark was very different from any of the other graveyards and memorials we visited: the headstones were squares on the ground and the whole place was much darker; oak trees loomed everywhere, and all the gravestones were grey. We then visited a small memorial to an Old Reptonian who lost his life, before a quick service in a beautiful church.

Finally, it was the time everyone had been waiting for: Belgian chocolate shopping! After buying and eating most of the chocolate in the shop, we visited the Flanders Fields Museum in the old Cloth Hall in Ypres, before moving on to our final destination, Tyne Cot Cemetery, the largest British military cemetery in the world. The cemetery was immaculate. There was no dirt on any gravestone and all the grass was perfectly trimmed. This showed how many people were still dedicated to honouring and remembering the fallen, who sacrificed so much for us so we can live as we do today. The trip provided us with a different view of WW1 and the numbers of deaths are now much more real and poignant. It was an incredible experience, one we will never forget, and we feel honoured to have had the opportunity to go. It was amazing to see how much WW1 still affects the French and Belgians every day, and gave a new meaning to Remembrance Day, for us, this year.

MOLLY BOWMAN (4M) & ZARA WEDGWOOD (4A)

REPTON ROUND

The Reptonian 2017/2018

DUBAI EXCHANGE TRAVEL JOURNAL In the Easter holidays, six A-block Reptonians completed the second leg of the Dubai Exchange programme, spending nine days experiencing the culture, sights and activities of the Emirate, along with experiencing life in our sister international school, Repton Dubai. Each student stayed with a host family or in the boarding house, and I asked the pupils to keep a journal of their days in the desert. The below are extracts from the students: their observations, thoughts and anecdotes… Dubai was an amazing experience! We did so much on this trip. Monday was spent settling in, and then on Tuesday we visited the Cultural Centre in Bur Dubai. Here, we got to see and learn about the history of Dubai and experienced some traditional Emirati food. We also got to try some traditional Emirati clothes such as Abayas and Kandoras. We then took a boat to the souks and found this interesting. A good night’s rest was needed before the fun-packed trip to Atlantis Aquaventure waterpark on the Palm Jumeriah on Wednesday. We even got JDS (who, may I add, is very scared of heights) to venture down The Leap of Faith waterslide! When we arrived at Atlantis waterpark I realised I’d forgotten my swimming shorts and had to buy a pair! However, the day was good and the group managed to convince JDS to go on a drop-floor slide, which was very funny! On Thursday, we spent the day in school and went to lessons, which are different from those in the UK. Lessons at Repton Dubai are an hour long and you don’t have to walk as far between them! Thursday evening saw the desert safari: after dune-bashing, we all got henna artwork and had a very nice Arabic meal. The ride on a camel called Mr Chips (great Repton coincidental reference!) and the actual desert safari seeing the wildlife were my favourite experiences and will be a memory I will cherish forever. It was also the start of a long weekend (as Repton Dubai get two full days off).

When the weekend arrived on Friday, a lie-in was really welcome! In the afternoon, we headed to a place called “Black Tap” in Jumeriah, well known in Dubai , where the “freakshakes” are huge! Afterwards, Emma and I, and our partners, Freya and Kate, enjoyed an afternoon at Kite Beach, another popular spot in the Jumeriah area. Weekends in Dubai are on Friday and Saturday. On both days, I went to visit my Dubai partner, Denis, and his family. We went to a beach club, the beach, his younger brother’s football game and for a meal out with his parents. It was very relaxing after a hectic week! On Sunday, we headed off to Abu Dhabi and Yas Marina Circuit. We saw the new Repton Abu Dhabi “Fry” campus, which has only been open a year, and learned the school currently had students in Years Three to Six. Yas Marina F1 circuit was very cool: we took a tour of the whole track, stood on the winner’s podium and ate lunch overlooking the grandstand. We even had a little sunbathe on the start/finish line!

Tuesday was another school day (and our last full day of the trip). As it was International Day, a lot of pupils at the school dressed up in their national dress, while we did our best to wear the colours of our country’s flag. Tuesday afternoon was spent making the most of the last of our Dubai sunshine and the evening was then spent celebrating my partner’s mum’s birthday, before packing, ready for the journey home.

GLH, ANA TERTYCHNAYA (4G), ISSY MANSFIELD (4M), KELSEY PEARCE (4A), EMMA FRONTZKOWSKI (4F), KRISTIA GABRIEL (4G) & JAMES RAI (4N)

Today is my last day. I can honestly say the Exchange trip has been an absolutely amazing experience and I have really enjoyed it! The Dubai Exchange was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and I wouldn’t have missed it for the world! With one day of school left before flying back, I will remember everything from this trip, but the best part for me was meeting the Dubai students.

On the penultimate day, we went to Dubai Mall after school to go up to the viewing platform of the Burj Khalifa, which is 125 floors up! We took so many photos as it was a very clear day: you could see sights such as The World Islands and could see the scale of all the building work in Dubai. Kelsey called her mum to tell her she was standing in the highest building in the world! That evening we met all the Exchange students for a really nice meal at Serafina restaurant, which has a really good view of the Dubai fountains.

REPTON ROUND

The Reptonian 2017/2018

THE U6 BIOLOGY FIELD TRIP:

MARGAM DISCOVERY CENTRE On the evening of Thursday 12th October, Repton’s U6 Biologists arrived at Margam Discovery Centre, near Port Talbot, South Wales. Having eagerly bustled into the café, we had our itinerary explained to us. The introduction started with Abbie (our tutor) explaining how the distribution and abundance of organisms in an ecosystem can be measured. At the crack of dawn on Friday morning, EGMS and SMI led a team of brave individuals on a morning run around Margam Park, after which we all had a delicious cooked breakfast at a more civilised 8 am, before travelling by coach to Crymlyn Burrows, the beach next to Swansea University’s new Engineering campus. After a brief introduction to sampling techniques, including types of quadrats, we learnt about the different pioneer species in the embryo dunes (marram grass was a group favourite!) and discussed the abiotic conditions affecting the species found on the sand dunes, such as sand pH, wind speed and sunlight availability. We then carried out an investigation into the degree of curling of marram grass at two locations on the sand dune, collecting data using a calliper and anemometer to measure both the width of the leaves and the velocity of the wind they were subjected to, in order to do a statistical analysis.

After this, we carried out a larger-scale investigation of primary succession of plant communities (pioneer to climax community) across the sand dune ecosystem. Doing this as a large team effort made the day all the more enjoyable, even if Peter Cheng (U6C) stole and consequently lost the quadrat! We used point frame quadrats along an interrupted belt transect to assess the distribution of plant communities in relation to both climactic and edaphic gradients. Once we returned to the centre, we had a short break, then back to work until tea. Abbie talked through standard deviation, t-tests and marram analysis. On Saturday, we started the day with a short walk through Margam Park to Cwm Phillip stream, where we used kick sampling techniques to investigate the distribution of freshwater invertebrates in the stream. We used a net to collect the disturbed water and dumped it into a water-filled tray, carefully using a plastic spoon or pipette to scoop out invertebrates, count the numbers of each and identify them: EGMS was very impressed to learn that his ‘leech’ was, in fact, a cranefly larva! Luckily, no one fell in the stream, but there was plenty of splashing around having a great time. We also recorded the velocity of the water at each site in order to see if this influenced the distribution of certain organisms, such as mayfly and stonefly nymphs.

After a picnic by the stream and a short period of being supporters of the local fell run, we were back to work, this time in small groups, doing our own investigations of how an abiotic factor affects the distribution of one species at different areas along the stream. By 4pm, we were back at the centre, this time to look at freshwater energetics in the centre’s pond. Abbie showed us a light and dark bottle experiment and we measured the amount of energy fixed through photosynthesis. This enabled us to further understand the relationships between gross primary productivity, net primary productivity and respiration in plants. We were then extremely, though not intentionally, successful in catching small fish with our nets. The evening consisted of dancing and singing around the bonfire, with hands and clothes alike clumped with a sweet bread dough, that the teachers insisted we would like (we didn’t) – but the art of baking it on a stick was so entertaining we didn’t care, with Hannah Davey’s (U6F) entire creation drooping into the flames until it dropped into the ashes – much to everyone’s delight! We also learned that Ed Mansfield (U6L) is the next Eminem and that we will all be able to use him as our claim to fame in the near future…

Sunday came around quickly and, with an early start, we were off to Bracelet Bay on the Gower Peninsula. Once down on the rocky shore, we split off again into groups, in order to find the most exciting shell, seaweed or living creature. The starfish won, but collectively we found a variety of interesting things, including huge crabs and vividly-coloured shells. After a showand-tell session, we divided into pairs to do one of our required practicals, where we had to choose an environmental factor and investigate its effect on the distribution of a given species. For Lucy Goodacre (U6A) and me, this was investigating the distribution and abundance of Bladderwrack seaweed in two locations on the rocky shore – close to the shore and higher up. We were required to choose and justify our equipment and methods, collecting data to do a statistical test later. We wrote up the practical that afternoon, had an early supper and then went to set small-mammal traps. We did this by placing plenty of straw, seeds and nuts, and cat food into the traps. (This cleared our conscience of capturing a mouse or shrew and it getting hungry or cold.) After disguising our traps with leaves and sticks along mouse runs, we set off back to the classroom, this time to complete another required practical on chromatography: we crushed up two types of seaweed, using a pestle and mortar, then placed dabs of it on a piece of chromatography paper, and put it in a sealed boiling tube containing a small amount of solvent. Our final day started with the disappointing realisation that we had not caught any small mammals – only a few slugs! Abbie rounded off the trip with a quick session on mark-releaserecapture and how effective different ways of marking are in estimating population. After a group photo outside the front of the centre, we said our goodbyes to Abbie and the rest of the staff at Margam Discovery Centre. The trip home was smooth, although spent in sweltering heat, and we arrived back at the faithful Arch by teatime. The trip was truly what we made it, and I think we did a pretty good job, but of course thanks to SMI, EGMS, GKR and LRJ for being so much fun!

HANNAH PARKER (U6F)

REPTON ROUND

The Reptonian 2017/2018

THE A-BLOCK TRIP TO ICELAND

THE CCF GUARD OF HONOUR

THE BUILD-UP TO THE ICELAND 2018 TRIP WAS FULL OF ANTICIPATION AND EXCITEMENT. I’M SURE THAT WE CAN ALL AGREE THAT IT EXCEEDED ALL EXPECTATIONS.

On Tuesday 20th March, the CCF had the pleasure of performing our Guard of Honour routine in front of the experienced RAF officer, Group Captain Mark Lemming, OBE. After weeks of tough training on cold and windy Wednesday afternoons, as well as many practice sessions during lunch hours, the selected members of the CCF were well prepared and ready for the day of the Inspection…

After an early morning and a few hours travelling, we arrived. We began by visiting the bridge between continents – a bridge that connects the European and the North American plates. We also saw some other landforms, such as craters and interesting rocks, which allowed us to get a feel for the country and to get to know our tour guide, Bjorn. That night we settled into our hotel and enjoyed a rest before the following day’s activities. However, as we relaxed, we realised that the Northern Lights were on show so clearly and beautifully outside, so we all rushed out to watch the magnificent colours. This was one of my personal highlights of the trip; it was simply magical – and also because RGDR didn’t actually believe us when we told him what was happening! The following day commenced with a trip to a lighthouse to admire the beautiful view and be told a little bit about the different islands and formation of features of the coastline. Following this, we drove to the Shark Museum, where we learned about the process of creating fermented shark to eat and to sell, and the way the native sharks live and are caught. We then tried some of the Museum’s very own fermented shark, which didn’t go down too well for some! We looked around and saw their collection of shark parts and interesting items that had been found within the sharks’ stomachs, such as a large piece of undigested polar bear skin! We then went on to our next activities, stopping en route at a number of stunningly beautiful landscapes – coast, lakes, and amazing mountains. Arriving at a caving location, we geared up with helmets and torches and went down into the caves. We were shown three truly amazing ‘chambers’, which were believed to be the trolls’ living room, meeting hall, and concert room! The guide explained the formation and each aspect of the caves, whilst we admired the dark chambers. Following this, we set off on a coastal hike, where we had fantastic views of the ocean and the coastal area and enjoyed walking in the fresh air with each other. We headed back to the hotel and enjoyed a walk down to the harbour and a quiz.

The last week before Easter is always filled with mixed emotions, with the exciting hubbub of pupils and teachers discussing Easter plans heavily contrasting with the sheer dread and horror of Steeplechase. Indeed, the topic of Steeplechase dominated lunchtime discussion for weeks leading up to the event, with BBC Weather receiving more interest from Repton pupils than any other time of the year! With this in mind, it wasn’t much of a surprise that, when it began to rain on the day of Guard of Honour, excitement and hope for the cancellation of Steeplechase intensified around the Repton community. However, as the heavy rain concluded, we dried off our weapons and proudly stood in our rehearsed positions in The Garth, with the beautiful reverberations of the band playing during the sequence. Unlike other years, members across all three sections of the CCF took part, with members of the Army Section undertaking the difficult challenge of performing a silent drill. Indeed, it seemed that the most difficult manoeuvre in the silent drill was the ‘Reverse Arms’, which tested the Army Section’s ability to have complete control over the weapon! However, on the day of Inspection, the Army Section executed the silent drill to perfection, with the RAF and Navy section contributing to the overall drill in a wonderful manner. Once again, Guard of Honour highlighted that, no matter what activity you are taking part in, whether academic or sport-related, discipline, resilience and, ultimately, teamwork can help you to achieve great success.

FRAN COLE (5F)

On Sunday, we embarked on another busy and exciting day, heading to one of Iceland’s national parks, Þingvellir, to look at its waterfalls and natural beauty. Here, we were taught about the old inhabitants of the area and how it became the place it is today. This was followed by a lovely trip to spa Laugarvatn Fontana, which includes natural hot springs and mineral pools. After this, we travelled to Gullfoss, an awesome fault-guided waterfall, and enjoyed a walk along its gorge and then a spectacular viewing of the geysers. Day Four was packed with interesting and exciting activities, including a trip to the Lava Centre, the opportunity to see Skógafoss (a massive 60m waterfall), eating a delicious burger, visiting the Glacier Museum in Reykjavík, walking through a man-made ice-tunnel and, finally, having a quick look round the beautiful Reykjavík Cathedral. Our last day arrived all too quickly; however, for many of us, it was our favourite day, filled with highlights, such as incredible lava-tunnelling, a trip to a Viking museum, fresh fish and chips in the Port of Grindavik, and a fabulous final activity of a couple of hours in the Blue Lagoon! I know we all feel so privileged to have been given the opportunity to go on such an amazing trip and experience all of the adventures and activities we did, and that we are all very grateful to those teachers who helped make it so brilliant.

PHOEBE PLANT (4M)

REPTON ROUND

The Reptonian 2017/2018

CCF ROYAL NAV Y FIELD WEEKEND The lessons on that day couldn’t have felt longer. Everyone was buzzing with anticipation for what promised to be a weekend like no other… With lunch in house at 12:30, we had but an hour to finish our last-minute packing. The only thing we knew about the weekend was its location – Plymouth. At 13:30, our team of eight cadets and three members of staff set off on the six-hour-long journey; food in hand, music at the ready, and our comfiest clothes giving us the illusion of calm. Then the music started. With a very good playlist, chosen by the cadets, from a speaker (property of Sarah Murphy (5M)), who could help but join in? All too quickly did those six hours pass us by. We arrived at 19:12 at the Plymouth Navy training base. After introductions, we went to our dorm. Rightfully named ‘Dauntless’, our room was massive, housing seven separate bunk beds! Repton pupils dominated the room, with only three beds occupied by non-Repton students. The expectation of horrible bathrooms was not realised: with plenty of sinks, mirrors and even hot showers, the bathroom was utopian compared to the alternatives experienced on Duke of Edinburgh and other CCF expeditions. By 22:30, we were in bed and ready to go to sleep, excited for what awaited us. We were shouted awake at 6:00 and, after groggily getting ready, formed up outside the building. Bitten awake by the chilly air, we were ready to face the day. We marched up to the large building that housed the canteen, where a full English breakfast and hot coffee greeted us, fuelling us for the big day to come. We then returned to our dorm and collected our wet-weather gear from a mysterious room at the back of our building and set out on the coach for our training location –Jupiter Point. We ventured inside the dock and were greeted by three friendly instructors, who told us we were going to spend the entire day on powerboats. Each boat held two to three cadets and an instructor and, after making sure our boat would power with effectiveness, we set off. We mastered the basics with ease; starting, stopping, turning and slowing down were second nature after our second turn at captaining the boat – but then the difficult part came. Parallel parking in a car is hard enough, let alone in a boat with the wind and tide to take into consideration. But we were determined. We then drove our boats out onto the harbour, and saw great naval ships loading up (two English, one German) as well as two submarines. The day flew away from us and, before we knew it, we were reluctantly boarding the coach for our short journey back to our dorms to get ready for dinner. With the choice between home-made beef burgers, two different types of pasta bake and a Japanese-style steak with rice, our dinner was amazing. After our feast, we took advantage of one of the Navy facilities: a half-sized football pitch hidden behind our building. Competition was inevitable. With Lt Fairbrother keeping goal for one side and SLt Walker for the other, with SLt Smith refereeing (until stakes became too high and he had to pick a side!), there were no boundaries. Honourable mentions go to Ella Hopkins (5F) for her aggressiveness and drive to win, Will Whitten (5L) for his ability to actually play football (unlike some of us) and, of course, the staff, who were not competitive at all…

Waking up at 6:00 again and getting changed into our uniform, we paraded outside the building earlier than usual until Lt Fairbrother, SLt Smith and SLt Walker came out to greet us. We were model cadets. After packing up our belongings and saying our final goodbyes, we grouped up outside the building before our final trip to Jupiter Point training base. We went back on the water and did a variety of exercises, before meeting up with the other Repton cadets at the base of a great Naval minesweeper, which had fought in the Falklands War. We boarded the massive ship and were guided around its deck and inside its hull; the vessel was amazing. It was then, sadly, time to leave. Although, when we finally arrived back at Repton, everyone was happy to go home, we will never forget the memories and experiences we had over that short weekend.

ALEX BERGER (5F)

IEA BUDGET CHALLENGE FOR THE FIRST TIME THIS YEAR, THE IEA HOSTED ITS ‘BUDGET CHALLENGE’ – IN WHICH TEAMS OF FOUR FROM SCHOOLS ACROSS THE COUNTRY WERE CHALLENGED TO WRITE A NEW BUDGET FOR THE UK FOR THE YEAR AHEAD. With only 4,000 words to develop our spending, taxing, saving and investment plans, we instantly began our fight over what to put in… Some conflict was always going to happen: despite all being A-Level Economists, we had very different ideas about how the country should be run! After much discussion, we managed to narrow our ideas down to a somewhat sensible selection (Lucas’ insistence on full nationalisation and Marcus’ passion for privatisation were both left on the cutting-room floor!), and broad strategy for tackling what we perceived as the major problems facing the UK economy. Broadly, we set out an expansionary plan for the UK economy, in order to tackle the problems posed by Brexit. We divided our policies into three main areas: raising productivity, boosting confidence and raising revenue. Some of the highlights (if you’re the kind of person who considers policy-making a highlight!) were a rise in the retirement age, billions invested into transport, a progressive corporation tax and a rise in the marginal rate of tax for the top band of taxpayers. The next part was far less fun. Over the course of a Thursday afternoon (due to our inability to manage our time), we collectively typed the 4000 words, with only a few major miscalculations and spelling errors. Final document typed, printed and sorted, we sent the 24-page pack to the IEA and began the waiting game. A few weeks later, we heard back from the organisation that we had been selected for the Final in a week’s time! The second piece of less fun information was that we had to produce a ten-minute presentation and prepare for ten minutes of questioning in that week. And so we set to work again. A week later, we were in London with DAE and SJP. As the last team to deliver their presentation, we watched schools such as Harrow and Brighton College deliver presentations that covered policies as diverse as Ecological Protectionism to Paternalistic Libertarianism. Then came us – delivering one of the only left-wing budgets in the entire day.

Expenditure Stream

Current Government (£)

Under New Budget (£)

Social Protection

252bn

242bn

Personal Social Services

32bn

Healthcare

155bn

160bn

Industry, Agriculture and Employment

23bn

25bn

Education

102bn

107bn

In front of us were four of the IEA’s top economists (who we had watched get gradually harsher over the course of the day). Having expected a table, we each delivered speeches clutching a variety of notes; yet, in spite of this, the presentation was delivered without major problems. The questioning was less seamless: we were interrogated on the implications of our deficit-raising budget, asked to detail its impact on the exchange rate, immigration, confidence and investment; the impact of raising retirement age on the poorest in society; and the merits of our progressive corporation tax system. After ten minutes of grilling, we were mentally exhausted, but had managed to hold our own in the face of the questioning. We took our seats and, while we received a short talk from a member of the Institute, the judges conferred. A short while later, they returned and, having given feedback, the winners were announced. In an outcome that we honestly did not expect, we were informed that Repton had taken the runner-up spot! The entire process was immensely rewarding – not just for the prize money, but for the experience in policy-making and the macroeconomic context that we acquired. We’d recommend anyone in the year below who has an interest in Politics or Economics to give it a shot, next year!

MARCUS TARRANT (L6S), JAMES DONEGAN (L6N), PARRAS JOSHI (L6P) & LUCAS PRINGLE (L6P) Revenue Stream

Current Government (£)

Under New Budget (£)

Income Tax

185bn

155bn

National Insurance

134bn

135bn

Excise Duties

49bn

Defence

49bn

46bn

Corporation Tax

55bn

48bn

Transport

35bn

38bn

VAT

145bn

163bn

Housing and Environment

31bn

33bn

Business Rates

30bn

Public Order and Safety

35bn

34bn

Council Tax

34bn

Other

53bn

Other Taxes

86bn

85bn

Net Debt Interest

41bn

Other Non-Taxes

51bn

Total

809bn

811bn

Total

769bn

750bn

FE ATURES 28

MANY HAVE ORIGINAL MINDS WHO DO NOT THINK IT. Hans Christian Andersen

FEATURES

The Reptonian 2017/2018

BEYOND THE BUBBLE Beyond the Bubble, Repton’s informal site for journalism, creative writing and art, reached its fourth year in operation this year.

Under the editorial control of Serena Cole (L6F), a number of articles were published, covering topics as broad as international relations between North Korea and America to the merits of starting Christmas celebrations early. The site represents both a creative outlet and a platform for opinion for the student body, amid a political climate in which our voices are more important than ever before. The following two articles, both written by current students, illustrate the crucial role that a platform like this has.

AN EDUCATION…OF EDUCATION Recently, the GCSE grading system has taken a new approach to assessing the standard to which a student can perform via the new numerical grading system, in which a student can achieve a grade from 1 to 9. This is said to be designed to increase the difficulty of a student successfully obtaining the top grades; so in other words, it reduces the likelihood of a mixture or combination of hard work and talent being fully recognised at GCSE. This change additionally seems to indicate that more concern is being placed on how well a student does in an exam and how well they are able to adapt to and learn the mark scheme of said exam, rather than trying to observe the actual ability and understanding of a student within a subject when they are being taught their syllabus. It encourages a student to focus even more on exams, which – although important for their future prospects – will likely lead to a further increase of anxiety and stress come exam time, rather than allowing a student to simply enjoy learning about their subject and have the space to research it further.

Some universities do not even recognise an A-Level in these particular subjects, deeming them not sufficient in comparison to the ‘facilitating subjects’. Thus, there is now the assumption that a student is not properly qualified, regardless of the dedication and effort that they may have committed. This year will be the last that a student will be able to sit an A-Level set by the AQA Board in History of Art; it is to be discontinued due to its apparent ‘soft’ nature. It has been stated that it is their intention to shortly also no longer provide an A-Level in other subjects, including Classical Civilisation, on similar grounds. At this point, the correlation

It is educational discrimination, based on the absurd argument that some subjects are more valuable than others, which completely contradicts the fact that society is clearly dependent on many aspects found within all subjects, both of academic and cultural backgrounds. Science is essential for technological and medical development and the arts are essential for aspects of a society ranging from entertainment to historical education. Both are crucial, and so to value and prioritise one over the other would be irrational and foolish, as what would a society be without its culture?

Although we are all looking forward to a well-deserved rest over the festive season, there are some who are not as fortunate as us; in particular, those caught up in the refugee crisis. These vulnerable people have been conveniently forgotten about by both the media and the Government, leaving them in serious danger, especially in severely cold weather when most do not have a proper shelter. Despite the fact that the crisis is still a very large issue and a number of people are still in danger, the media have stopped reporting on it, deeming it as “old news”. This means that there is less of a light shone on the problem and yet there is still no solution. With the weather turning, these refugees need help more than ever and the British Government, as well as the European Union, must do all that they can to protect the human rights of these people. Jana Frey, the director of Greece for the International Rescue Committee, said that the situation “remains a matter of life and death” and that “there is absolutely no excuse for the conditions on the islands [in Greece] right now”. The conditions that the refugees have to endure are desolate and leave people – in particular young unaccompanied children – vulnerable to traffickers and other dangers. In fact, 865 children are living in the Calais Jungle currently, of whom 78% have no parents to look after them. Although the British Government agreed, in the “Dubs Scheme”, to rehome 280 unaccompanied children in Britain, the reality was that not a single child was resettled in the UK under this law. The fact that the European Union cut emergency funding to Greece this year also shows that, across the world, the problem is not being addressed seriously. There has been no attempt to radically change the approach to resettling, despite the fact that so many have risked their lives to reach Europe and, already this year, the death-toll of those who have drowned in the Mediterranean Sea has reached 1000.

There has been widespread criticism of the desperately poor conditions that refugees have to survive in. Nicola Bay, who is the head of Oxfam in Greece, regretted that the Greek islands are “places of indefinite confinement for asylum seekers” instead of helping those who have risked their lives to find safety and set up their lives in Europe. Some Syrian and Iraqis refugees have now been in the camps for 20 months, clearly showing that the system is failing and the world has just turned a blind eye. The situation in Calais is particularly bad, with more than 1500 refugees and migrants housed in the forests in Northern France with not enough food and, due to the lack of media coverage, the charities that work to help those who have been forgotten by the Government cannot now act effectively. The destruction of the Calais “Jungle” did not remove the fact that thousands of refugees now have to survive in freezing conditions; it only serves to isolate those children who are unaccompanied and without someone they can rely on. This situation makes the refugee crisis particularly worrying, as, although many are housed in temporary accommodation, the majority of refugees are unable to move out of this accommodation and resettle in other parts of Europe. The limited resources that charities are able to provide are soon used up, leaving many without the proper aid that they need to survive, particularly in the winter months. Many people fear that this winter will be particularly dangerous and that the world will witness another crisis that we could have prevented.

ALICE EARWICKER (U6A)

Furthermore, a combination of both factual knowledge and creativity are assets that, combined, become truly desirable in most jobs and workplaces, including those in science, as employees are required to think outside the box, or, in other words, outside the textbook. The Education System should not be pressurising students towards academic subjects regardless of their individual attributes and skills, as to do so would be more harmful than beneficial. If a student struggles within their academic subjects, especially in comparison to others, they are proven likely to think of themselves as having less worth than others. We, as a society, should not be directing every child down the same path, but guiding them down their own individual path, to whatever best appeals and complements their unique nature. As said by Albert Einstein: “Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.” So, next time you come across a fish trying to climb a tree, don’t mock it, but do indicate the nearest route to a body of water and certainly don’t discredit the water in comparison to the tree due to its difference in structure and use. Take another look at the world around you and see how everything is different and yet still has useful purpose. This is how we should learn to view others and other aspects of knowledge, as, from doing so, we, ourselves, will learn.

GEORGIA ARMOUR (L6G)

ALEX STUART-MONTEITH (U6S)

The Education System is yet to be perfected and needs to be updated in a society that is constantly changing. Whilst on the subject… of subjects, a certain ‘soft’ spot is increasingly more problematic: the validity and respect of so-called ‘soft subjects’. This umbrella term includes courses which are not seen to be academic, or not academic enough for the increasing demand and pressure for individuals to take academic subjects, which is essentially made up of a list of art forms and other cultural studies such as Art, Drama and Classical Civilisation.

between ‘soft subjects’ and the study of art forms is undeniable and prejudice against them is clearly present.

THE REFUGEE CRISIS AT CHRISTMAS

FEATURES

The Reptonian 2017/2018

#METOO

This year, the entertainment world, and society at large, was rocked by the #MeToo movement. Beginning in October 2017, following the revelations of Hollywood insiders’ systematic sexual exploitation of women in the industry, the hashtag took up steam when the actress Alyssa Milano tweeted that victims of sexual harassment and assault should use her phrase to come forward with their stories. The Twitter hashtag ballooned into a global movement in which women, both celebrities and individuals in society, were encouraged to come forward with their stories. Here, Georgie English and Tia Purewal offer two responses to the movement and its meaning.

A REFLECTION ON THE #METOO MOVEMENT The #MeToo movement, and the concept of the movement itself, is successful because it encourages women to come together en masse to raise awareness of how sexual abuse is so common. I do recognise that some may seek solace through this campaign by being open to everyone, as well as themselves, but I find it hard to understand that the scale of sexual abuse globally is only being realised now through revealing one’s inner pains and nightmares in the #MeToo movement. The #MeToo movement puts more pressure on women to come forward with their painful stories of sexual abuse, instead of focusing on the responsibility that men should feel to stop inappropriate behaviour that leads to sexual assault. I think it would be naïve to hold the view that women can fight back against abuse without the help of men, when we currently live in a male-dominated society; this means that we should group together, as the #MeToo movement encourages, because acting collectively is much more effective than an individual effort. A frustrating thing about speaking out about sexual abuse is that you are expected to use your own history to back your opinion. If someone was to joke about sexual abuse and I objected, then I would be labelled a buzz-kill. If, however, I then followed up my objection

with my own experiences, then the joker would apologise profusely, and everyone would treat me like I was a baby needing protection. It is difficult in this society to know how to treat someone after they have told you about a serious issue. When having a conversation in person and someone compels you to open and talk about your experiences, it is often the case that they then find themselves incapable of looking you in the eye afterwards. Personally I think, and many websites on abuse agree, the main thing you should do is avoid saying things that may make it seem as if it were their fault: ‘Why didn’t you run away?’; ‘You should have seen the signs’; ‘Maybe if you weren’t wearing what you were then it wouldn’t have happened.’ All these comments might reinforce what the person was thinking, because many victims of sexual assault are led to believe that what happened to them was their fault – which is incredibly damaging and eats away at you inside. The campaign is really to highlight unwanted attention from men and abusive behaviour towards women. However, there is a danger of the campaign being highjacked and misdirected, either intentionally or unintentionally, by flooding the media. Despite this, the #MeToo campaign should continue, but the boundaries must be outlined: there IS a clear distinction between attention or mutual flirting and unwanted attention. Women should NOT be made to do anything they don’t want to; ‘No’ should mean ‘No’, at whatever stage it is said, and women should never be made to feel as if it was their fault. Men need to take responsibility for their decisions and actions, but we women must be careful, because the #MeToo campaign shouldn’t be used as a weapon against every man. Most men and women understand and appreciate each other in friendship and as work colleagues. I believe that the #MeToo movement is beneficial, because it encourages unity and support across both genders. Yet, the movement pushes women to speak up and seem weak if they do not. It is often the case that such campaigns for consent being at the base of sexual encounters ruins lives, criminalises male behaviour and threatens masculinity itself.

GEORGIE ENGLISH (U6F)

AN INTERVIEW WITH

THE CHAPLAIN Fr Roberts, chatting about his own religious experience, the problem of evil and getting to Heaven, over tea and biscuits… Since when have you known that you wanted to make religion such a crucial part of your life? I think I was about eight: I remember going to Church and I heard this most magnificent choir and saw the mystery and drama of an Anglo-Catholic mass and something just caught me; something grabbed me that projected that difference and otherness, where the veil between this world and the next world is thinner; this sense of mystery and awe. It was other-worldly; it was transportational. Then I went to university and rejected it all – did Theology and thought it was all a load of rubbish. My friend, who was a priest at the time – and who I thought was delusional – said to me, “Are you tired yet?”. He meant I needed to stop running away from, and start running towards, what I was supposed to do with the rest of my life. So, at age 29, I stopped running. When you pray, do you feel like it’s a two-way communication? For me, it’s a directional hit: I need to give this to you, God, because I can’t cope with it. And I often hear back, not in the moment of prayer, but in others and also because one often knows the answers to the questions and often one is afraid of what one knows to be true. You need the reassurance and I think God reassures us. How do you think the existence of God links in with evil and suffering being in the world? I don’t think God tempts us; I think the Devil tempts us – and I do believe in the Devil. I’ve seen evil; I’ve seen it in the faces of people who have done horrendous things and it’s petrifying. But I believe in a God that loves us so much that he wants us to choose, of our free will, to do the right thing. Aquinas said “to disparage the dictate of reason is equivalent to condemning the command of God”. So, I think that evil exists in the world when we choose not to allow ourselves to flourish and not to pursue the right thing. So if that explains moral evil, how do we explain natural evil?

A LETTER TO THOSE WHO ABUSE THEIR POWER To whom it may concern, I am writing this with the hope that you will learn that what you are doing is wrong. When the word ‘consent’ is heard, you instantly think of yes and no. Now, it’s changed. Yes and no may be deemed simple answers, but the intent behind it can leave it being more complex than we know. Money and social status give consent no meaning. How can you give honest consent when you know, if you say ‘No’, you will lose all that you have worked for? It might be easy to hide behind your wallet and card, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy for all. You’ve manipulated girls, destroyed their lives. She fears coming to work, to be under your touch. You claim she was ‘asking for it’, but didn’t you see the terror in those eyes. Her career is at risk; you’ve put it on the line. So, she gives in, utters that three-letter word that has now lost all its value. You claim it’s not assault. She was not abused. She consented. What wrong was done? So, I ask, what is the use for the papers?

Why do you need the hush money? You know you are acting wrongly. You understand your mistakes. You hear her cries. With one bank transaction and a few signatures, your worries are gone. You’ve stripped away her voice; she won’t speak now. But how much longer can you hide behind your wealth and lawyers? So, you move onto your next victim. It has become a cycle, a habit. You come out unscathed each time, leaving a trail of your wrongdoings. You think no one’s affected, but those supporting you tremble at your words. They know you are wrong. They pray for you to stop. They are trapped. Their attempts to stop you have not worked. What will you do when it all comes out? Your façade has now been stripped: we know all your lies. Your hushed whispers are heard clearly amongst all. They’ve found their voice – you can’t keep them quiet anymore. Your bank accounts are not big enough to hide them now. So, will you face them front on, admit your wrongs? But you don’t understand. What’s wrong is that you think it’s fine: they got their money, what more do they want? I guess I’m naïve to think you will ever change.

Tectonic plates are necessary for a planet like ours to exist: stuff like that happens because that’s how the earth works. The reason that we have floods in Bangladesh is because that’s where the fertile ground is and we choose to live in it. But, actually, what we need to do, is say: let’s build our houses away from a flood plain. We are getting better at determining when the tremors are coming, so we have the technology. So the natural evil stuff, I think, is eventually going to be avoidable. I think that’s one of God’s ways of saying you can choose to be selfish, or you can choose to invest in helping others.

With so many different religions, do you think there is a true religion? Some people think that if you don’t believe this, you will go to Hell. Do you think there needs to be one true religion? Do I think there is one true religion? Yes. Do I think you have to believe it? No. Do I believe that, if you don’t believe it, you’ll go to Hell? Absolutely not. I was born in the West in 1972. Therefore, I’m a Christian. If I had been born in Bangladesh, I would be a Muslim. Does God mind? No. All religion is, is man’s invention to make sense of God, and God looks down on all of us and thinks, “Hmm, that’s interesting. I wonder why you think that…”. So, I believe what is known as the Hick’s Wheel of religion: there are many spokes, but one wheel. The reason I’m Christian is I believe that God’s teachings show me something of the nature of the creator uniquely: I am the Way, the Truth and the Light. For me, that’s why Christianity works; the answer for me is Him, but it doesn’t mean I’m right. That’s why it’s called Faith. So, for people who are certain that God doesn’t exist, how would you reply? You’re in for the best surprise of your life when you get to Heaven! I think that people who say there is no God either believe that because they genuinely believe that – very few of whom I’ve actually met – and I think that when they get to Heaven they’ll say, “So that’s what you meant”, because I don’t believe that He excludes people simply because they say that they do not believe in Him. However, if, of your own free will, you see it, you know it and then still do not want it, that’s when you start talking about Hell – because you’ve done that to yourself: it’s looking in the face of Love and saying No. We put ourselves in Hell; we judge ourselves, we condemn ourselves. God doesn’t do that. How do you think we can relate the teachings of the Bible to our present-day lives? Jesus was asked that same question. A rich man comes to Jesus and says, “I’ve kept all the laws. What must I do to enter the Kingdom of Heaven?” Jesus turns round and says, “Give it all away” and the man goes away sad. Jesus was basically saying: what’s the one thing that’s getting in the way? And the answer was money, in this case. I think you can sum up all of the laws and the prophets like this: love God, love your neighbour. All the rest is detail.

SERENA COLE (L6F)

Well then, why did God design it in that way? I don’t believe in Intelligent Design – a theology that says every single detail leads to this point; God had that design in mind, that knee, that foot, when he created the world billions of years ago; I don’t believe God is so controlling. I believe God sets the planets in motion and says, “Let’s see what happens”. In the Genesis mythology, he says, “LET there be light”: I allow it; I’m not forcing it. That’s how much God loves us: that sense of freedom, of autonomy, and that sense of stewardship and responsibility that goes with it, is what it is to be a human being.

TIA PUREWAL (L6A)

FEATURES

The Reptonian 2017/2018

THE ORWELL YOUTH PRIZE

TO LEAVE, OR NOT TO LEAVE? Each year, The Orwell Youth Prize is held to reward powerful pieces of political and social commentary by young writers. The topic in 2017 – Identity – triggered hundreds of entries from around the country. Jack Pollard (U6L) won this year with the following essay, on the nature of identity in 2016’s EU Referendum. To leave, or not to leave? That was the question answered by Britain on 23rd of June 2016, which was simple, but only in its binary sense. What is more complex, however, is on what principal a single Leave vote rested: was it a vote against a varied international relationship which has existed since 1066? Against a federal bureaucracy? Or a vote resisting the ‘more equal equals’ in authority? All or even none of these may be true representations but, whatever the reason, why then did the not-so-special relationship of ours come to an end? Neither the media, nor poll indications predicted the ‘Leave’ result, but a closer examination of the constitution of the British people (if such generalisation is at all possible) might explain it. Furthermore, reading Orwell’s ‘England Your England’, from his collection The Lion and the Unicorn, might explain the inevitability of last summer’s result. Perhaps the British way of life and the traditions it is built upon are in some ways incompatible with European culture and this has only been exacerbated by the workings of the EU. Here, we now fall back on a separate question of greater importance: what gives us this unique identity which is so incompatible with European thought? In ‘England Your England’, Orwell acknowledges the dislike for the English still seen today: “There is a sort of back-handed admission of… dislike which nearly all foreigners feel for our national way of life”. In many countries, this would be due to colonialism, but Europe was never a stomping-ground for redcoats and cavalry charges. Britain was in fact just more successful at this than its French, Dutch and Spanish counterparts. This historical competition and superiority of the seas and commonwealth has certainly left an everlasting strain on our continental relationship. Undoubtedly this rivalry had placed a heavy emphasis on the benefits of the Union.

The largely conservative values which define our culture and which society holds are also vastly different from any European culture, right- or left-wing. From our traditionally more right-wing leanings to a more One Nation approach, our subtle differences can also be as trivial as the private nature of our culture. A substantial amount of truth can be taken from Orwell’s comments on the phrase “nosey parker”, which bears more insult here than in other more open European cultures. This autonomous approach is seen in many Englanders’ pride of their nation along with our slightly more capitalist, opportunity-over-relief-style politics. Orwell acknowledges this culture in this line: “Boasting and flag-wagging, the ‘Rule Britannia’ stuff, is done by small minorities”. This more subtle confidence and pride could be a source of criticism of British temperament. This confident and reserved approach could for many non-Englanders illustrate a “smug” nature to the British identity, clashing with the “eccentricities” of their cultural personalities. More of these conservative values can be seen in the more prevalent peace in our land compared to the continent. Britain does not have an experience of trundling its aristocrats off to the guillotine in tumbrils, nor, with some largely unsuccessful exceptions, rising up in revolutionary fervour to overthrow the ruling class. Even when Charles Stuart was beheaded in 1649, this was more of a reaction to him, and not a mandated change away from a ruling class. Its fallout of increased parliamentary powers was more of an evolution than a rebellion – a very conservative reaction. Similarly, Britain was an early adopter of the concepts of decentralisation of powers. While Europe was in turmoil during the 1830s, Britain passed the Great Reform Act and, even earlier than this, most famously The Magna Carta, which was the first treatise of its kind. Although Britain has been through numerous bloody internal struggles, the system itself – unlike the countless French constitutions – has only been truly overhauled once and there is little social precedent for change, no comparison, and arguably no reason. This has led to decades of peaceful rule and an ingrained

sense of fairness and justice which – as Orwell argued – is stronger than any societal differences brought about by class, and gives the British identity an ingrained respect of the – usually well-ruling – establishment. Touching pre-emptively on the E.U, as seen even to this day, with the Brexit Supreme Court ruling, and dating back to 1215, the concept of the law definitely being above the State meant that any attempt of removing sovereignty from Westminster would have resulted eventually in a backlash, such as has been seen during the referendum. Our long independence from foreign-forced rule also contrasts with a more metropolitan approach of European nations. In many European states, due to sheer ease of movement, migration and war has allowed multitudes of culture to mingle and disperse across the European Continent. In recent years, this has led to Europeans being more used to accepting foreign persons and cultures. As seen with the relative lack of segregation in Europe in the 1960s compared with British uneasiness with Caribbean immigration and more recently the accommodation of over 1 million refugees in Europe relative to only a few thousand in Britain, it is evident that European societies are far more flexible to adaptation and influence, compared to the traditional British way of life – thus making any forced cultural links difficult to hold on to. These principles have a unifying power and are illustrated by Orwell’s explanation of “national loyalty” in ‘England Your England’ which is not just stronger than “Socialism” but, according to Orwell “is usually stronger than class-hatred, and always stronger than any kind of internationalism. The English working class are outstanding in their abhorrence of foreign habit”. Our societal respect for rule and fairness, matched by our individual habits and national pride, sets traditional Britain apart from more fluid, metropolitan and liberal Europe, even before the European Union tries to join both cultures inseparably together. The E.U.’s functionality has never before come under so much scrutiny. The establishment of the Union was a necessity: war was a constant threat in Europe and ensuring stability and political co-operation was paramount. Labour and resources were at a premium throughout the second half of the twentieth century but, with the advancements in globalisation, containerisation and connectivity, the demand from within Europe for these commodities had weakened. Further, the desperate need for prosperity had diminished, indicated by the plateauing of many European economies and therefore the need for cooperation within Europe is now one of convenience for the UK as opposed to a necessity. This fact has allowed arguments of principle and ideology to gain prominence against practical economic drivers (which were already reducing in size after a long, hard recession) and increased democratic scrutiny or arguments based on migration so intrinsic to the strength of the E.U.

A relevant example of British self-determination of identity can be seen in the debate on personal identification. The reaction on the continent and on our mainland to the introduction of EuropeanEconomicArea ID cards was black and white in comparison, with the idea struck down in Britain as soon as it was proposed in 2005. As Orwell explains in ‘England Your England’: “The English are in process of being numbered, but their impulses are in the other direction”. He foreshadowed this conflict of approaches from exactly the same line of thinking as the “nosey parker” analogy, emphasising the incompatibility of a less intrusive conservatism style of government from a more centralised union. Ironically the only 3 EEA countries that do not require such cards are Norway, Iceland, and Denmark, three traditionally conservative domains not in the E.U. The expectations of government are of key importance when understanding how the E.U exacerbates disparities in already differing cultures. Simple principles of government here in Britain are essential to any Briton, especially in England, where patriotism is strongest. The notions that Brussels can potentially infringe on an Englander’s rights without the respect of British law or even commission an army without parliamentary consent is probably the single biggest threat posed constitutionally to a Briton. Therefore, on June 16th, the argument of fairness and democracy should have been expected to have been given significant weight by a voter over arguments of peace, co-operation or even economic stability. Furthermore, the theme of hypocrisy in British identity was also evident during this referendum. The fervent pleas to vote ‘Remain’ from almost all the business and political elite (from Branson to Blair) made little impact on ordinary people who perceived these ‘more equal equals’ to be motivated by self–serving interest. By contrast, the Leave campaign, fronted by political outsiders such as Michael Gove and Boris Johnson – won over the people by using their critics, eccentricities, and determination as relatable, as opposed to the line of opposing elite who were considered out of touch with the rest of society. Looking at the E.U, it is the pinnacle of what many Britons would believe to be bureaucratic elite without their best interests at heart. Here we see a trait of British identity in a distinct distrust in authority, needed to keep democracy in line. Overall, it is clear to see how these two cultures are split between their interlocking proximity and perspective and a set of established conservative principles and scepticism. These principles, such as the role of government, the rule of law and personal freedoms, have, in England, carried more weight that the physical benefits of continued co-operation and unification. The E.U has been a major success in Europe for the last 60 years but, as its influence over Britain becomes more ideological than practical, the differences between our two cultures, our identity and theirs, is exposed, with the E.U only acting as a docking-rope to a now unknown ship up-anchored in a foreign port.

JACK POLLARD (U6L)

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The Reptonian 2017/2018

SHOULD WE MEASURE HISTORY BY TODAY’S VALUES? TODAY, WE SEE MANY EDIFICES OF YESTERDAY’S “GREATNESS” BEING TORN DOWN, OR AT LEAST AN ATTEMPT TO DO SO. There are examples of this happening all over the world – such as in Australia, where there are calls for the statue of Captain Cook to be taken down from pride of place in Hyde Park in central Sydney, due to many people only seeing it as a symbol of violence and death. Many are also demanding for the statue of Robert E. Lee in Charlottesville, Virginia, to be taken down, put in place in honour of his duty as Commander of the Confederate States of America, because he is now largely seen as a symbol of America’s racist past and slaveholding history. There are also examples of the reconstruction of history closer to home: Oxford students are arguing for the taking down of the statue of Cecil Rhodes, who was once viewed as a powerful businessman and educational philanthropist, but now is only seen as a bigot and racist. Over the years, the world view on many issues has changed dramatically: it can be argued there is now more acceptance towards different cultures and race; however, does that mean we change the interpretation of the past? Is it right to reconstruct the world’s history that only now we view as wrong? The argument for the tearing down of the statue of Robert E. Lee can be seen as important in terms of racial equality, which appears to be still unresolved in some parts of America. Today, the majority of Americans want to be rid of the idea of white supremacy; to do this, some feel they need to destroy monuments that symbolise much more than just the ideologies of the past. Robert E. Lee was a Confederate commander at the time of the Civil War, at a time when slaves (black people) were seen as property and assets, not humans. Many people in America took the viewpoint that black people were inferior, not just Robert E. Lee. Just because, today, we do not view any human being as a slave or inferior, does this mean we should reconstruct records of a past time, re-evaluating their actions by the morals and standards of the present? Taking down the statue of a man assessed ‘great’ by the values of the mid-nineteenth century, who shared the view of many contemporaries on the retaining and ownership of slaves, is surely arrogance. Those trying to remove the statue are trying to signify that they do not agree with the views of those in the past. Surely, however, it would be more beneficial to keep the ideas that those of the past had on show, to ensure that we do not repeat their mistakes and injustices towards others.

Conversely, changes in social attitudes mean that we now see some historical figures, who, in their own time, were looked down upon or even persecuted for their beliefs, as heroes. An example is history’s reassessment of Alan Turing: Turing cracked the enigma code in the Second World War, breaking 178 messages of the Germans’ code in 1940 alone. As time went on, the process of decrypting German messages got faster. It is believed Turing and his team shortened

Our perspectives of history have changed and will continue to change, depending on the prevailing morals and views of society of any given time. We must be careful in judging history, because we will be judged ourselves by future generations. We should, therefore, remember, as we progress, the lessons history can teach us.

TINKERBELL MILLER (L6F)

VICTORIA ROBINSON (U6F)

Just because what we think of as right and wrong today does not match the views of our ancestors, does not mean we should destroy and dismiss it. History highlights how we have developed as a society: by picking and choosing the history we want to be a part of us, we are effectively ignoring the history that has made us who we are and what, as a local, national or global population, we have built our modern values on.

the War by two years and saved the lives of 14-21 million people! However, in 1952, Turing was arrested for homosexuality and put on trial; he died in 1954 from cyanide poisoning caused by chemical castration, which was his only option other than go to prison because of his sexual orientation – then seen as a crime. Turing was seen as mentally ill and, because of his supposed ‘condition’, his brilliant work for our country was overlooked. Now that society has greater understanding and acceptance of homosexuality, we have come to consider him a hero: by today’s values, his sexuality does not overshadow what he achieved. Why is it, because we have made a positive change by modern ideological standards to the extent that we can make a hero out of a disgraced man, yet we feel the need to get rid of the history that we are ashamed of now, because it does not fit in with the values of today?

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The Reptonian 2017/2018

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THEREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MUSIC IN ALL THINGS, IF MEN HAD EARS. Lord Byron 39

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The Reptonian 2017/2018

THE HOUSE UNISON COMPETITION With the academic year back in full swing, the House Unison Competition approached us like a flash of light, bringing to the stage weeks of hard work and determination, as well as an awful lot of laughter! This year’s competition, adjudicated by former Repton Organist, Alex Hodgkinson, now Director of Music at Christ’s Hospital School, was definitely a night to remember! Field House were posed the challenge of performing first and they contributed the song ‘Pompeii’ by Bastille with immense style and clarity. Although slightly monotone in places, Field impressed with their effective staggered start and their ability to juggle a few head rolls without losing their bold approach to the song. New House were praised by the adjudicator for their togetherness – the optimal trait of Unison. Their well-rehearsed version of a Take That favourite, ‘The Flood’, was slickly delivered, with the House dressed in yellow ponchos contributing some excellent dynamics. The use of synchronised stomping and clapping certainly enhanced the powerful performance, indeed sharing a resemblance with the popular boy band itself. We think it is fair to say that New House was robbed of a prize – but that matter can be left to debate. The brilliant interpretation of ‘How to save a life’, performed by Latham, highlighted the effort and dedication of the House. Like many other houses, the dynamics of the start impressed the adjudicator, with the strong use of antiphony creating a simple yet effective recital. Despite the pitch being slightly disrupted in some places, this did not detract from another strong boys’ house performance. The Mitre’s exciting performance of ‘Forget You’ by Cee Lo Green left the audience flabbergasted, not only with the change of song but also by the strength and potency of their singing. On the evening, every girl was smiling, portraying vocals in perfect tune and effective coordinated ‘shushes’. The conductors were praised by the adjudicator for their showbiz approach to leading the House – an approach that won Mitre a well-deserved second place.

Orchard’s loud rendition of ‘September’ (Earth, Wind and Fire) was commended for their superb guitar accompaniment, a thrilling contrast to the piano… Well, what else is there to say? Although the performance perhaps required a little more of the original tune, the sheer enthusiasm displayed by all members of the House was a delightful sight. The winners of this years’ Unison, The Abbey, sang ‘One day like this’ by Elbow, beginning their performance with a solo from the conductor, Lauren Owen (U6A), which won the adjudicator over and resulted in him also giving Lauren the Best Conductor trophy, which was rightfully deserved. The Abbey’s ability to stay unified throughout was astounding, especially their ability to stop and come together with no assistance from the piano. Many agree that The Abbey deserved their trophies, but of course there are some who think otherwise… This year The Priory surprised many – not only the adjudicator, but even their own Housemaster! They came third with their rendition of ‘Human’ by Rag’n’bone Man. To start, the boys came on stage in staggered and random fashion, which seemed normal for Priory, based on previous years; however, once they started, most audience members were shocked as, not only were they not shouting, they were actually in tune! A fair few would agree that Priory deserved to come third, but we think New House are still trying to get over the shock… The Cross carried on from last year with their attempts to not sing, but we were at least lucky enough to have actions this time. They did not let the audience down when it came to putting us in hysterics with ‘What makes you beautiful’ by One Direction. Their ability to shake their heads in time was rather impressive and it was somewhat in tune, so, all in all, a good effort from the boys.

School House performed a medley of James Bond songs and graced us with the opportunity to see more of the U6 than we had bargained for, with them transforming into Bond girls, leaving a lot of us in stitches. Though certainly not always in tune, the boys seemed to enjoy themselves, singing their hearts out for each classic tune. The Garden were the ones to beat, having set a high bar with their rendition of ‘Fall at your feet’ by Saint Raymond. As the adjudicator said, they were smiling throughout and were genuinely enjoying themselves. Many believed they would win. Everything was perfect, from their unity in singing to the actions put in place; the performance couldn’t be faulted. We think it’s a shame they didn’t place; they were highly-deserving of a trophy.

FRAN COLE (5F) & TIA PUREWAL (L6A)

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ORCHESTRAL AWAY-DAY HADDON HALL On 5th November, the Symphony Orchestra took part in an Orchestral away-day, where we had the exciting opportunity to focus on our repertoire in the beautiful, picturesque surroundings of Haddon Hall. It was a welcome change of scene for all of us, after spending so much rehearsal time in the Beldam Hall back at Repton, despite the fact that Haddon was on the chillier side to say the least! Along with practising, the Orchestra was given time to explore the wonderful stately home in which we had been given the opportunity to play, with pristinely-maintained gardens and a plethora of beautiful old furniture. We were also treated to a fantastic lunch, with a choice of roast beef or turkey, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all, and kept us motivated to stay focused during the upcoming afternoon rehearsal!

CONCERT BAND MASTERCLASS The masterclass held for the Concert Band by Wing Commander Duncan Stubbs took place on 11th October 2017 and was a fascinating experience for all. Getting tuition by someone with his wealth of knowledge and experience was something not to be missed: as good as Mr Spalton is at leading the band, a fresh face with different approaches is always to be welcomed. The pinpointing of certain areas within the band, such as a focus on balance between the sections and accentuating the articulation to bring out certain melodies of the pieces, brought about an entirely different approach to the rehearsal – and a fresh one at that. The length of rehearsal was also something that we hadn’t experienced before as a band: two hours, with a break, and then an open rehearsal at the end of it was a real test for everyone’s endurance. This extended period did mean that we were able to focus on specific elements of pieces and play them over and over, until they were perfect. This meant that the level of the pieces that we focused on increased greatly, as rather than the basics being comfortable, listening to other parts of the band became a focus, as the piece was so comfortable for each of us. The open rehearsal was seen as a sort of semi-formal concert, with the pieces being played through for the audience and then areas of weakness focused upon and fine-tuned. This experience seemed beneficial for the audience, as often you only see the end result and not the workings to get there. Overall, this masterclass was greatly enjoyed by many and certainly an experience to remember.

HENRY BLENCOWE (L6N)

THE DAILY SERVICE A little before 0600, a group of slightly confused teenagers waited for a bus that would take them to Manchester. Not quite 100% awake, the School’s Chamber Choir gathered by the Arch, wrapped in blankets and eating breakfast, as they waited to be taken to a small church to sing to a room of about two people. And microphones. Because, while the room only contained a few people who were not affiliated with the School, the service was going to be broadcast live to anyone who tuned in to the Daily Service on a Thursday morning on BBC Radio 4, LW. Once at the church, the Choir began rehearsing their familiar repertoire, trying out the new acoustic and giving the sound engineers an opportunity to test levels and adjust the microphones accordingly. This added an extra dimension to rehearsal, and the novelty of this experience impacted positively on our singing, injecting it with new energy, despite the early hour. By the time the service started, we were all ready to go and were feeling pretty confident. With a thought-provoking introduction from Father Andrew Martlew, the music got underway. The Choir sang convincingly and professionally, performing to the best of our ability. There were some beautiful solos by our Head Choristers, Yasmine Dugdale (U6M) and Sam Riley (U6P), as well as Leo Parry (5C) and Rika Canaway (L6G), in addition to a great reading from Libby Roberts (L6M). Being on site opened our eyes to the importance of the Service to the general public and gave us a newfound respect to all that contribute to leading services, either on the radio or in their parish. However, it also enabled us to appreciate the value of these services without necessarily believing in every word that was spoken, as it gave us all ample opportunity to reflect on our lives and on ourselves – an opportunity that we do not often get in our day-to-day lives. This period of quiet, combined with the singing of the Choir, provided us with one of those moments where we are alone with that ‘still, small voice of calm’, whether that be our conscience or our God.

RIKA CANAWAY (L6G)

We returned to Repton satisfied that the day had been used to its fullest extent, and that everyone in the Orchestra had improved to the extent that we were all confident that we would perform exceptionally at the upcoming Michaelmas Concert later on in the term.

ALISTAIR WESTWOOD (L6N)

SUBSCRIPTION CONCERT SERIES AND MASTERCLASSES The Repton Subscription Concert Series has enjoyed a successful year. We have welcomed a variety of internationally renowned musicians and ensembles to perform in the Beldam Hall, with performers also often giving masterclasses to pupils during their visit. The renowned vocal ensemble Voces8 visited for the first time in September, performing a programme of ‘Choral Dances’ through the ages, including music by Britten, Van Morrison and Duke Ellington, which was enjoyed by a large audience. The standard was outstanding and highly polished, as was the delivery and presentation of the group. Repton’s own Chamber Choir also performed as part of the evening, singing Purcell’s ‘Thou knowest Lord’ and an improvised dance, joined by members of Voces8. During the afternoon, the Chamber Choir and Junior Singers enjoyed inspiring vocal masterclasses with the group, learning about several aspects of performance and vocal technique. An excellent day.

Later in November, we welcomed world-renowned pianist Charles Owen to give a masterclass and recital on our Steinway piano. Himself a Steinway artist, Charles adored the School’s piano and gave an outstanding performance of music, from Bach to Ravel. Fenella Scutt (U6G) also performed as part of the evening concert, giving a spectacular account of Rachmaninov’s ‘Prelude in G# Minor’. Other pianists from the school benefited from Charles’ expertise during the afternoon in a public masterclass, which was as entertaining as it was informative.

OMW DIRECTOR OF MUSIC

In November, we were delighted to welcome Konstellation, a small chamber ensemble who explore the intersection between song and chamber music. As part of their diverse programme, the group performed Clara Schumann’s ‘Piano Trio in G Minor’, a set work for our A-Level Music students, who were treated to a pre-concert talk by Dr Peter Siepmann, with live examples played by our visiting musicians.

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The Reptonian 2017/2018

THE CHRISTMAS CAROL SERVICE

NATIONAL YOUTH JAZZ ORCHESTRA MASTERCLASS

This year’s Carol Service began with the traditional rendition of ‘Once In Royal David’s City’, with Yasmine Dugdale (U6M) and Lollie Gibson (4G) as soloists, launching the familiar sequence of Nine Lessons and Carols. However, under the guidance of Director of Music, OMW, the service was given a fresh twist, such as the Chilcott arrangement of the classic ‘Sussex Carol’. The whole spectrum of choral ensembles displayed their various talents, including the School’s Chamber Choir and B-Block Singers, among others.

On Wednesday 17th January, the National Youth Jazz Orchestra visited Repton and delivered an exceptional masterclass to local primary and prep schools, and, later, to Repton Jazz Band, which included being taught an improvised blues piece. The aim of this was to have the Jazz Band play with the NYJO in the 400 Hall and perform their newly-learned piece for an audience later that night.

At the first rehearsal, many of the choir had our own doubts about the level of difficulty the music provided, the challenge that would lie ahead, and whether or not it would actually be possible to sing these carols to the standard that we are so used to at Repton. However, our worries were soon quelled as OMW and AA began working their own Christmas magic, and the songs began to come together in a way some had been dubious was ever going to be achievable. Feeling more assured in the run-up to the services, we were faced with one final challenge – the weather. On the Sunday, for the service held for the parents, the choir stalls were looking slightly more empty than perhaps we might have hoped, due to the snow preventing some choristers from returning to school. However, the choir showed real Christmas Spirit by rallying to the final challenge and still performing the Nine Lessons and Carols to the highest standard, even when faced with Rachmaninov’s ever-challenging ‘Bogoroditse Devo’. The readings were delivered with professional composure, adding to the peaceful atmosphere that the beautifully candle-lit Chapel provided.

RIKA CANAWAY (L6G)

Repton Jazz Band started the evening with a set comprising such classics as ‘Take the A Train’, ‘Moondance’, ‘St Thomas’, ‘Downtown Tango’, ’Spain’, ’Sing Sing Sing’, ‘Birdland’, and the infamous ‘The Chicken’. A short interval followed and NYJO then performed their own set, featuring solos from their stunningly talented musicians, after which the Repton Jazz Band joined the NYJO to play the newly-learned piece, ‘Centrepiece’, performed entirely by ear by both bands, with every member of the Repton Jazz Band playing an improvised solo. The end result was an evening of sensational jazz music and the Jazz Band really discovered how to further the quality of their playing.

DANIEL ANANDA-RAJAN (U6C)

THE CHRISTMAS BANDS’ CONCERT The Christmas Bands’ Concert had been one of the top priorities of the Music Department across the Michaelmas Term, with weekly rehearsals taking place for all of the bands involved. The concert approached fast, and took place on the last Wednesday of the term, the Sax Pack performing a number of Christmas carols on the steps outside Pears School, greeting the audience in from the cold winter air.

EVENSONG AT WINDSOR CASTLE On a surprisingly bright and clear February day, with spirits high and eagerly anticipating events to come, the Repton Chamber Choir journeyed to sing Evensong at the famous St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle. After an hour to explore the immaculately-kept grounds, a rehearsal took place in the surprisingly cosy and warm castle dungeon. On entering St George’s Chapel, the enormity of history held inside was a lot to take in. We were all made very aware how privileged we were to sing in the spiritual home of the legendary Order of the Garter, an order of chivalry established by Edward III. To imagine that the Repton Chamber Choir would take part in one of the thousands of Evensongs that occurs in the building was more than something very special. We stood next to the very resting-places of Henry VIII, Charles I, George III, Edward VII and George V. Whilst observing such key pieces of British heritage and history, it was impossible to miss the gargantuan and beautiful stained-glass window at the bottom end of the Chapel, which beamed with vibrant colour, showing multiple biblical tales in utmost detail. Equally impressive were the amazing wooden carvings engraved into and above the choir pews, along with an amazing stone ceiling. To sing in a chapel radiating with so much architectural beauty was something very special, but the quality of acoustic made the Evensong something even more fantastic.

baton made the evening more than exceptional, so much so that, immediately afterwards, the Repton Chamber Choir was invited to return next year! To have performed in such a distinguished place of worship is something many choirs can only dream of, and to perform with such joy, dedication and meaning is something that makes the Repton Chamber Choir very special.

LEO PARRY (5C)

Singing a full Choral evensong, as well as the Choir did that evening, showed musical maturity, talent and excellence beyond the years of school students. The dedication from every chorister all the way to the ever-punctual downbeat of OMW’s conductor’s

The concert got underway with a performance of the 20th Century Fox fanfare, arranged by Matthew Rhodes (L6L), impressively interweaving the ‘Jingle Bells’ tune. The traditional ‘Moonlight Serenade’ by Glenn Miller and the festive ‘¡Feliz Navidad!’ followed this, performed again by the Sax Pack, a range of the school’s saxophonists led by Mr Milverton. Jazz Band, conducted by RF, were next onto the stage and opened their set with ‘Take the A Train’ before moving effortlessly through a mixture of jazz and Latin pieces, with classics including ‘Moondance’ and ‘Spain’, with a solo performance from Henry Blencowe (L6N) on the piano; and the impressive ‘Down Town Tango’ and ‘Around Midnight’. The latter brought the pace of the performance down, with laid-back solos from Matthew Rhodes on the trumpet and Henry Blencowe on the piano. The band showed slickness and professionalism in an outstanding performance that finished with the infamous ‘Chicken’, which had been the butt of many fowl jokes throughout that week, but which also featured a dazzling bass guitar solo from Alistair Westwood (L6N). The interval coincided with a quick downfall of snow, encouraging the audience to treat themselves to mulled wine and mince pies, ready to commence the second half. This was kicked off by the Foremarke Hall Wind Band, who were enthused to play at one of Repton’s most anticipated musical events. Mr Spalton brilliantly conducted them through a repertoire of family favourites from stage and screen, concluding with The Lion King’s ‘Can You Feel The Love Tonight?’ The Concert was concluded by the Concert Band, with the first piece accompanied by musicians from Foremarke. A range of upbeat Christmas classics brought the evening to an end, which had been a great success, thanks to the thorough organisation of Mrs Fulford and OMW.

JAMES DONEGAN (L6N) & JOE JARVIS (U6O)

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GABBY YOUNG (U6F)

THE HOUSE HARMONY COMPETITION

UNISON MAY HAVE THE TITLE OF REPTON’S LOUDEST MUSICAL PERFORMANCE EACH YEAR, BUT, FOR THE MOST FINESSE, NOTHING CAN BEAT THE HOUSE HARMONIES. This year, as ever, each house sent forth its foremost vocalists to construct performances worthy of any a capella group. So, with the stage set in Pears School, surrounded on three sides by audience members, each house brought perfect pitch to an evening of entertainment. After OMW’s brief introduction, first onto the stage came School House. Unwilling to let the evening get off to a slow start, they brought indie-rock into Pears School with a performance of ‘Breezeblocks’ by Alt-J. The song’s almost-demonic lyrics about dark infatuation were delivered with an effortless power by soloist Charlie Wilbraham (U6S). Mixing well-timed percussion and solos galore, School House kicked the evening off in spectacular fashion. Up next was The Mitre, the large group launching instantly into a touching rendition of ‘Whatcha Say’ by Jason Derulo. Louisa Constantinou’s (U6M) solo was accompanied by some of the most complex percussion the audience was to see in the competition: clicking,

clapping and stomping combining to form a powerful beat to the wonderful vocal harmonisation. A number of duets brought a theatrical element to the performance, the lyrics delivered with the confidence so typical of Mitre performances. A sudden breakdown made sure the audience was paying attention, building up again into yet another powerful chorus. In contrast to Mitre’s battalion of singers, The Cross came to the stage with only six singers to their name. Yet, listening to the performance, you would be forgiven for being unaware of any discrepancy, for what they lacked in numbers they made up for in sheer charisma and energy. Delivering a medley of Four Seasons numbers, Cross took us back to the American ’60s, capturing the deep bass tones and suave stage presence that defined the group. The matching outfits were also a very nice touch, adding an additional entertaining angle to their performance. Continuing the medley idea, Field House resurrected the King of Pop, with highlights from the career of Michael Jackson.

Beginning with Jacko’s characteristic yelp, the house donned hats and launched into a quiet rendition of ‘How you make me feel’, soon blending into a new song, the use of choreographed movement signalling each regular change. All the highlights were on show: from the famous grabbing of the hat to the ‘Thriller’ dance that all expected. Field weren’t the only house to channel the spirit of Jackson on this night, as The Garden launched into their rendition of ‘Blame it on the Boogie’. Mixing falsetto highs with powerful alto lows, the house captured the musical diversity of the Jackson 5 in stunning fashion. The charisma that each house brought tonight was again in spades here: the back and forth between the two soloists delighting the audience. Black hoodies on, eight of The Orchard’s finest launched into a chilling interpretation of Bastille’s ‘Icarus’. After a long build-up that gripped the audience, the vocals, led by Theo Saunders (L6O) catapulted us into the story of a man who flew just too close to the sun. Behind the lead vocals, a soaring falsetto was delivered from the younger singers, combining to form a beautifully sad melody that got to the hearts of the audience.

New House did not let the consistent excellence down! Delivering ‘Africa’, by Toto, arranged by Henry Blencowe (L6N), their animal-themed t-shirts and percussion indicated this really was going to be a spectacular piece. Against the odds, with a group mainly made up of younger years, they certainly were not inferior in any way, with rich tones and an impressive projection of their voices. They certainly kept the audience awake! Singing such a complicated arrangement also showed the audience how able each and every one of their members really was. This performance truly did leave a buzzing atmosphere in Pears School to welcome The Priory.

KATIE FULFORD (5F)

Nerves had been high, as four members of the house’s group, including the principal soloist, were still on buses returning from sports fixtures, and so questions arose over how the diminished group could pull off their performance. Yet, in spite of this setback, the boys cast aside novelties of costume and dance and put on a touching and stripped-down performance of ‘Say Something’. The opening notes grew in strength to a powerful conclusion, with, in particular, the harmonisation between Head of School Sam Riley (U6P) and new-to-the-School Leo Wallace (3P) wowing the crowd. A brilliant performance: who knows what might have been with their full complement. Performances over, adjudicator deliberating, fingers crossed! As OMW and adjudicator Simon Williamson took to the stage, the energy was electrifying. Each house had its merits and achievements catalogued, yet, in the end, there could only be one winner (and two commendations). In third place, we came back to the jungle with New House; in second, a well-deserved piece of silverware for The Mitre. But it was the boys in red who took home the top prize: Latham House! It goes without saying that, each year the School does itself a true service in putting together, independently, such a wonderful show, and so all the performers can consider it a job well done as they return to their house, many Juniors already debating what song will bring home the gold next year!

ELIZA PETERS (L6A)

VICTORIA ROBINSON (U6F)

Dressed in all-white to counter the all-black of the previous performance, The Abbey performed ‘Feel It Still’ by the American psychedelic rock band Portugal. The Man. With Lauren Owen (U6A) and Alice McShane (L6A) holding the resonant solos for this group, combined with the exceptional vocal dynamics from every single member, the audience was left with feet tapping and heads bopping to the hip-hop rhythm. The Abbey showed their consistent musical talent, maintaining the standard with which they had won Unison.

Continuing the up-beat feel to the evening, beginning their piece off-stage, Latham House left the audience in amazement with their arrangement of Mika’s ‘Grace Kelly’. Interrupting the piece with dialogue really contributed to the anticipation building in the hall for what they had to bring to the table. With the passion in their voices matching the vibrant colour-choice of their red t-shirts, the group delighted the crowd with their vocals from the go. With such a tight arrangement and set of voices that blended so well together, complemented by two main soloists both with an outstanding vocal range, it was a recipe for perfection, the outstanding falsetto of Matthew Jankinson (U6L) really adding another dimension to the piece. Crescendo-ing and diminuendo-ing till the end, with the impressive integration of individual talent, it all combined to construct an excellent piece and Latham truly did outdo themselves.

MUSIC

The Reptonian 2017/2018

ROCKIT 2018 On Thursday 8th February, 22 of the School’s contemporary musicians took to the stage in the 400 Hall Studio Theatre to perform to an audience of 117 pupils and raise money for the School’s Lent charity, the Malala Fund.

The first act up saw an acoustic duo, The Muffin Men (Jake Ford (5S) & Sam Sinclair (5C)), performing The Arctic Monkey’s hit ‘Mardy Bum’, before New Kid On The Block, Junior Kinsiona (L6L), quickly followed with his self-composed track, ‘Rapper’, that went down a storm, and particularly so with his loyal band of followers, eager to see his debut performance. Poppy Kellock (4G) and Didi Davolio (4G) followed this with a more chilled number, ‘Havana’, by Camila Cabello, and were accompanied by Henry Blencowe (L6N, keys), Jude Sinclair (4C, bass) and Joe Jarvis (U6O, kit). Their second song, ‘Glitter & Gold’, was also well-received, Alistair Westwood (L6N) joining them on bass. Tequila! were up next, a slightly larger band made up of Oli Scutt (5L, Kit), Alistair Westwood (bass), Henry Blencowe and Matthew Rhodes (L6L) sharing keys, Ollie Jarvis (U6O, guitar) and the talented Jessie Smith (5M) on lead vocals. They opened with Amy Winehouse’s ‘You Know I’m No Good’, before moving swiftly into a more upbeat number by Olly Murs, ‘Dance with me Tonight’, finishing their set with the classic Oasis tune ‘Don’t Look Back in Anger’. This was a real crowd-pleaser and had the audience singing along throughout. Alice McShane (L6A) followed this with her cover of ‘Valerie’, with a similar band to before, although James Donegan (L6N) joined them to give a well-received saxophone solo! This song had evolved as a project completed as part of the CCEP in recording studio production techniques and had clearly been time well-spent. Alice’s second song was ‘Feel it Still’ by Portugal, which also proved to be a big hit with the audience.

A brief break from the bands followed as the ‘DJ Deck Experience 2’ by Harry Scutt (4N) kicked in, with some dazzling remixes of many different classic dance tracks into a well-polished set reminiscent of a dance scene. The band 14:22 followed, made up of Jake Ford (lead guitar), Sam Sinclair (rhythm guitar and vocals), James Newbould (5S, bass) and Ollie Thompstone (5L, kit). They also played a few songs by Oasis – ‘Cigarettes & Alcohol’ and ‘Supersonic’ – which saw some impressive playing and singing from Sam and Jake. ‘Take me Out!’ was their next song and this also left the audience feeling very impressed, before their final number, ‘I Bet That You Look Good on The Dance Floor’ by The Arctic Monkeys. DC/AC were the penultimate act of the night, which saw Alistair Westwood and Barney Jones (L6S, kit) accompany a very impressive guitar solo from Reuben Blakeman (L6C), playing the intro to ‘Thunderstruck’, before launching into the AC/DC classic ‘Back in Black’. Rather sadly, their singer, Jacob Webb (L6S), lost his voice on the night and so the band had to go it alone. The final act of the evening was Immie & Co, which saw Ollie Jarvis (guitar) and the impressive tones of Immie Hunt (U6G, vocals) play an acoustic Adele duet, ‘Daydreamer’, before being joined by the rest of the band: Alistair Westwood (bass), Henry Blencowe (keys) and Joe Jarvis (drums). Their second song was a more upbeat number, ‘New Shoes’ by Paulo Nutini, and they returned to Adele for their third song, which was ‘Right as Rain’. The penultimate song of the night was ‘Fill My Little World’, which also showed off the vocal talents of Henry Blencowe, before Immie returned to sing the final song of the evening, ‘Cocoon’ by Catfish and the Bottlemen, which also had an impressive solo from Ollie on the guitar. A special thanks should go to the crew: Matthew Rhodes (sound), Alex Smith (L6O, lights), Serena Cole (L6F, stage crew), Ed Albone (L6N, technician) and the various staff members – JMGL, AG and PH – who gave up their time to support the show. Thanks also, as ever, to RF, whose tireless work made it all possible and run with such slickness on the night – even to the minute! The event was another enjoyable evening of entertainment and raised £295 for the Malala Fund.

OLLIE JARVIS (U6O)

D RAMA ACT WELL YOUR PART; THERE ALL THE HONOUR LIES. Alexander Pope

DRAMA

The Reptonian 2017/2018

THE SCHOOL PLAY:

NELL GW YNN In the Michaelmas Term, we were treated to a top-notch main school production: Jessica Swale’s Nell Gwynn. The crew’s stunning transformation of the stage brought the audience out of Repton’s dark winter nights and into 17th century London. The attention to detail of this play was not missed, from being greeted by orange-sellers at the entrance to having them amongst the audience. The outstanding performance from all cast members and tireless work of the crew resulted in the audience being captivated for two hours in the tireless story that is Nell Gwynn’s rise and fall. Lauren Owen (U6A) mesmerised us with her portrayal of the cheeky and flirtatious Nell, certainly doing justice to such a demanding role of a character who changed the history of theatre. The King, played by George Shirley (U6N), charmed the audience and Nell – creating a love-interest the audience was pining for. His performance was, once again, outstanding.

Ruaraidh Stevenson (U6S), who played Edward Kynaston, took cross-dressing well in his stride and left the audience in stitches, while Freddie Holt’s (L6N) comic performance as Charles Hart was outstanding. As a counterpoint, Alice McShane’s (L6A) performance as Nell’s sister, Rose, tugged at our heart-strings, as she tried her best to keep Nell on track. The hours FJB put in to direct and produce the show were wellappreciated by both cast and audience; her ability to create genuine ensemble acting was reflected throughout the show. JMGL’s endless hours organising the tech. crew and making sure the show ran smoothly were likewise highly-respected; I don’t think a show could run without his boundless knowledge of the 400 Hall’s capabilities. We look forward to next year’s show and hope to see some recurring faces both onstage and behind it.

TIA PUREWAL (L6A)

DRAMA

The Reptonian 2017/2018

NELL GW YNN: AN INSIDERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S VIEW THE WHOLE EXPERIENCE OF NELL GWYNN COULD ONLY BE DESCRIBED AS EXHILARATING! The backstage atmosphere was incredibly fun to be a part of. It was an enjoyable play to perform; nevertheless, the fun was not just limited to the stage! The cast backstage constantly supported each other through each scene and everyone took care of one another. The atmosphere was one of resilience, and backstage nerves were eased to a minimum, as the communal goal was to put on a good show for the audience. It was incredibly invigorating to be included in such a distinct play with a diverse cast. The performers were great at hyping themselves and their fellow cast up, in order to transport that creative energy to the stage in front of an audience. The excitement was contagious; the general vibe resonated with the passion cast members had for the play, as well as for acting. It was such a great achievement to see the hard work the cast put in, showcasing it on a stage among hundreds, and the hard work paid off!

SHREENA KUNDU (L6A)

DRAMA

The Reptonian 2017/2018

STUDIO PRODUCTION:

THE TRIAL

For this year’s first studio play, the Lower School took Repton into a dystopian future of mindless bureaucracy and government control, putting on a stellar interpretation of Franz Kafka’s The Trial. This seminal work of European literature charts the story of an individual, Joseph K., who is accused of an unspecified crime and has to deal with an absurd version of the legal system in a mystifying future. With this plot in mind, the use of an ensemble cast to perform the work was a master-stroke by director JMGL, the lack of defined roles mirroring the way in which each character is simply a front for a faceless government. The exception, of course, is Joseph K., played expertly by Freddie Dumbill (4P). Freddie’s performance was able to capture perfectly the confusion, rage, and eventual resignation of Joseph throughout the text. Another specific commendation should go to Liv Truscott (5F), who, in a unique move, wrote and performed the music for the play. The score perfectly captured the dark, mysterious and occasionally humorous text. With its complex themes, absurdist scenes, and intense characterisation, Kafka’s unfinished masterpiece is a difficult text for any company to put on. In spite of this, this Lower School ensemble was able not only to capture the essence of the work, but provide it in a manner that enchanted the audience for multiple nights. Pieces such as these truly demonstrate the wonderful nature of the Drama Department, with each student contributing to the performance in their own unique way: from the actors onstage to the crew behind the curtains. I speak for everyone in the audience when I say that I’m greatly looking forward to the cast’s plays to come!

FREDDIE HOLT (L6N)

STUDIO PRODUCTION:

NO EXIT DARK, PARISIAN EXISTENTIALISM FOUND ITS HOME IN THE STUDIO THEATRE IN THE LENT TERM, WITH A PRODUCTION OF SARTRE’S NO EXIT. Making her Repton directorial debut, GRPW brought together Varvara Kurdakova (U6F), Jasmine Leavesley (L6A), Ella Hopkins (5F) and me to put on Sartre’s one-act play, which examines what happens when three strangers are placed in a room together for all eternity. What appears, at first, simply to be an interesting look at social interaction soon evolves into a powerful examination of the nature of Hell and of eternal damnation, and the false hope of salvation in an absurd world. With only five weeks from first rehearsal to performance, occasionally in the rehearsal process it did feel like there was no exit (apologies; I had to), but the exciting script and wonderful direction made it an immensely rewarding process for all the cast. The set design, supplied by IJW, was perfect for the work – bringing a minimalistic aesthetic to Sartre’s Second Empire drawing room Hell. With the audience no more than a metre away from the stage, the set created an atmosphere that was as tense as the script deserved. Ella took on the role of the Valet, a small part, but one that left

a lasting mark on the audience, thanks to the demonic charisma that she brought to it. Jasmine took on the role of Estelle – the high-society girl unable to shake off the guilt of a terrible crime she committed on earth. The role, which required showcasing visceral emotions, was fulfilled well. Alongside her was Varvara, taking on the role of the heartless, cruel and manipulative Inez. Wig affixed, Varvara bought a tension to the play that Sartre would have applauded. I played Garcin, the journalist-turned-traitor, my vocal chords still recovering from the screaming the role required… While it’s difficult to comment impartially upon a production in which you performed, I’m really happy with how the cast managed to come together to put on such a demanding piece in such a short period of time. The questions that the play raises – over the nature of life, death, identity and morality – will possibly always remain unanswered. But, for two nights, Repton had these questions presented to them in an unavoidable fashion.

LUCAS PRINGLE (L6P)

DRAMA

The Reptonian 2017/2018

THE LENT TERM PRODUCTION:

OH WHAT A LOVELY WAR In the penultimate week of the Lent Term, a talented cast of 42 Reptonians performed the play-with-music Oh What a Lovely War, commemorating the one-hundredth anniversary of the end of the First World War. The production was directed by FJB and contained a very high standard of both acting and singing. The play comprises a series of different sketches that focus on different aspects of the War: its origins, life in the trenches, propaganda, the politics of the war, and life back in Britain for the families of the soldiers. Mixing powerful satire, historical detail, cheerful music-hall routines and moving solo and ensemble songs, it throws into sharp focus the mass devastation caused by World War One. Henry Blencowe (L6N) and RF did an amazing job of organising all the music, and the solos from Immie Hunt (U6G), Lauren Owen (U6A), Freddie Dumbill (4P), Rika Canaway (L6G) and Alice McShane (L6A) were all very impressive. The ensemble nature of the play, originally devised by Joan Littlewood’s Theatre Workshop, meant many members of the cast had multiple roles, successfully portraying a range of different characters in order to show the effects that the war had on people from a variety of backgrounds. The first half was deliberately

comedic, satirising the patriotic desire throughout the British class system to go out and fight for their country. Freddie Holt’s (L6N) performance as English Commander-in-Chief Sir John French trying to communicate with his French counterpart had the audience in hysterics, as did Ruaraidh Stevenson’s (U6S) comedic turn as a foul-mouthed drill-sergeant. The second half of the play is darker, and was very powerfully presented, juxtaposing the false image of war painted by propaganda of the time, with the devastating number of deaths of ordinary soldiers, with the lack of understanding of the generals. Sam Riley’s (U6P) performance as Field Marshal Sir Douglas Haig, demonised by the play’s writers, was particularly convincing. The whole cast, however, managed successfully to portray the powerful overall message of the play about the futility of War.

JASMINE LEAVESLEY (L6A)

ART & DESIGN 60

TO GILD REFINED GOLD, TO PAINT THE LILY, TO THROW A PERFUME ON THE VIOLET, TO SMOOTH THE ICE, OR ADD ANOTHER HUE UNTO THE RAINBOW. William Shakespeare

EDITORIAL

The Reptonian 2017/2018

THE FASHION SHOW

THE FASHION SHOW INSIDERS’ VIEW

In January, the long-awaited Repton School Fashion Show made a comeback and it did not disappoint. With the theme of ‘Alchemy’, pupils from across the year-groups wove their magic into masks, garments and objects that left the audience enthralled as they were whisked away on a journey through the elements. The biennial event also showcased the work of some returning Old Reptonians, Hattie Hutchinson (M’10) in her final year at Esmode Paris, Max Summerton (S’10) studying Fashion at Nottingham Trent University and Vanessa Cole (F’11) who is currently studying at Istituto Marangoni in London – all inspiring the next generation of McQueens and Gaultiers with their sage wisdom and impressive designs.

Volunteer student models negotiated the catwalk adorned with earthlyinspired collections: from amethyst to oxygen, chalcedony to platinum, their strides illuminated by each abstract set and backdrop video that immersed the occupants of the 400 Hall in enchanting scenes of flower blooms and flashing lights. The varying approaches in how the collections were displayed added to each of the performances and showed the vast imaginations of the students. Of course, the night would not have been possible without the tireless work of the Fashion Show Committee, who made sure that the whole night ran like clockwork and made the evening a wonderful experience for all involved.

In order to add magic to the lives of those who are not as fortunate, all proceeds went to the Neverest Orthopaedic Foundation – a charity that works with Nepalese hospitals to improve practices through workshops, lectures and clinics. Over £2,200 was raised, prompting a handwritten note of thanks from charity patron Joanna Lumley, OBE. History tells us that many alchemists were impostors and fakers, who pretended to be able to produce gold from base materials. However, the Art and Textiles students of Repton School succeeded in their task of making this night truly golden.

BEA BRIDGE (L6M)

What a fabulous experience the Fashion Show was to take part in! As members of the committee and designers, we were involved right from the outset to the final show. It was hard work, but rewarding in so many ways: it taught how extraordinary the process was, from creating an original design, converting it into a wearable garment and then seeing how incredible it looked, as it moved down the catwalk and for other people to be able to see and appreciate all our efforts. As well as designing garments, we created and ran the show from start to finish, from coming up with ‘Alchemy’ as the show’s concept, the design of the programme, marketing ideas, stage-design, music, programme content and, finally, the runningorder and helping train the models (with the brilliant Mrs Scutt) to create the look we wanted. This has taught us many skills – effective communication, delegation, collaboration, re-negotiation, budget management etc. – which will help us in the future. We could not, however, have achieved as much as we did without the wonderful guidance from IJW, JMGL and, of course, our brilliant Textiles teacher, AJB, who guided us through the whole process with calmness and dedication – and a lot of tea!

HANNAH BOND (U6F) & MANAE ARAKI (U6G) FASHION SHOW COMMITTEE: M. Araki (U6G), L. Archer (U6G), H. Bond (U6F) I. Clowes, (U6A), K. Gill (U6F), J. Hibell (U6M), L. Owen (U6A), E. Ross (U6G), I. Winn-Darley (U6M).

ART & DESIGN

The Reptonian 2017/2018

DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY

LONDON TRIP 2018 STOP 1: THE DESIGN MUSEUM, KENSINGTON DESIGNER MAKER USER

RACE CARS ARE NEITHER BEAUTIFUL NOR UGLY. THEY BECOME BEAUTIFUL WHEN THEY WIN Enzo Ferrari FERRARI: UNDER THE SKIN From the very first Ferrari, to Michael Schumacher’s winning Formula One car, this exhibition displayed vehicles and memorabilia never publically seen. Original sketches revealed the origins of the form of the famous cars, and full-scale models, in both clay and traditional woodenframed structures, explained the process of developing and refining the designs. Manufacture was explained through the staged process of sand casting and milling the engine blocks, and all this was displayed alongside some of the most iconic Ferraris, such as the Testarossa, F40 and even Gordon Ramsay’s very own La Ferrari.

In the ‘Maker’ section, the exhibition highlights the development of manufacturing techniques, from Thonet bentwood cafe

chairs, to robotic arms and 3D printing. Pupils were able to discover how everyday objects such as tennis balls, as well as notable designs including the London 2012 Olympic Torch, are manufactured with samples presented at different stages of production.

In all honesty, the U6, who had seen last year’s exhibition, were hoping for a more engaging and thought-provoking display this year. 2018 is the tenth anniversary of the awards and it has brought together over 60 global projects across six categories, from Architecture to Fashion. The pupils were relieved and impressed by the original way of revealing the entries – organically shaped walls “flocked” with recycled paper pulp. Some notable nominations (which incidentally went on to be announced as winners) were the Nike Pro Hijab (performance sportswear for Muslim women), AIR-INK (an ink collected and made from air pollution caused by car exhausts) and “Scewo” (a stairclimbing mobility device, enabling wheelchair users to reach locations that were previously inaccessible).

IN THE LENT TERM, THE SCHOOL’S NEW COURT GALLERY WAS LUCKY ENOUGH TO DISPLAY AN EXHIBITION OF WORKS BY THE CONTEMPORARY ARTIST GEOFF LITHERLAND, WHO ALSO VISITED THE GALLERY TO TALK ABOUT AND EXPLAIN HIS WORKS TO SIXTH-FORMERS.

Many of the pupils were once again drawn to the “Crowd Sourced” product wall: a huge expanse of metal grid, with a range of products curated through social media as the most important everyday designs of the 21st century. Everything from the OysterCard to robotic hoovers and nostalgic toys have been included. It provoked pupils to think what they would include on the wall.

Litherland was born in Mexico and achieved an MFA in Fine Art from Goldsmiths, University of London. His work entails a strange and unique combination between a Constablestyle English landscape painting, and an abstract sci-fi setting. His pieces take a traditional style of work and blend it with a more modern theme, which is what I believe makes them so interesting. In many of his pieces,

STOP 2: THE V&A MUSEUM, KNIGHTSBRIDGE After a short walk (with, sadly, no celebrities spotted this year!), the students were free to explore the V&A, where again a major feature of their exploring the building was the 20th Century Design Library and the Rapid Response Object Collection. The displays in these areas explore major design icons of the 20th and 21st centuries, and those objects which had had a major impact on design and manufacturing. The U6 admitted the exposure to these displays would be useful in helping to understand and interpret the iconic features of these designs through their examination essays.

one of the two types of painting is contained within a geometric, portallike shape, which acts as a boundary between the two. In some cases, it appears completely separate to the rest of the painting; in others, it blends into the background and becomes part of the landscape. Litherland’s pieces have also proved very useful for us, adding context to A-Level work as they encompass several different ideas. Almost anyone could find a way to link it to their work: some of his pieces were clearly figurative, with very familiarlooking figures passing through very unfamiliar settings; others seemed to carry more symbolism, with thoughtprovoking titles such as ‘The future is blinding’ and ‘There’s a good universe next door’. All of his pieces were beautifully painted and very inspiring for my own work.

REUBEN BLAKEMAN (L6C)

INDIGO OMILANA (U6M)

The vast majority of pupils, whether “petrolheads” or not, confessed that this was their favourite exhibition of the day, as design and manufacture was heavily featured at every turn and everyone could learn something and be inspired by such striking design.

In its second full year, this exhibition has matured into a valuable “3D library” of resources for students, consisting of almost 1000 examples of twenty-first century design, covering a broad range of design disciplines. It explores the thought process of the designer and how this informs the objects. David Mellor’s traffic light, Kinneir and Calvert’s British road signage system and a 1:1 scale prototype for the new London tube train designed by PriestmanGoode all made for a very striking display.

GEOFF LITHERLAND EXHIBITION

BEAZLEY DESIGNS OF THE YEAR

Visiting the V&A this year was also an opportunity to see the completed Amanda Levete-designed Sackler Courtyard: a striking area of outside space, the courtyard comprises a series of faceted planes – faced in hand-crafted porcelain tiles – which draws on an association with the use of ceramics in the Museum’s earlier architecture. This space then leads down to the new Sackler Gallery, an area we sadly ran out of time to see, but which leaves us a good enough excuse to visit again soon…

GLH

SPORT 66

THE MORE DIFFICULT THE VICTORY, THE GREATER THE HAPPINESS IN VICTORY Pele

SPORT

The Reptonian 2017/2018

CRICKET 1ST XI

With every independent school in the UK playing cricket, you don’t have to look too far for decent opposition and, with our win/loss ratio as it was, you could say we had a perfectly-balanced fixture list. After a couple of losses in pre-season by narrow margins, we had a tie in a T20 against Stamford, the first I have experienced with a Repton 1st XI. After a very average bowling and fielding display, we were on course to win, after a blazing 50 from Marcelle, followed by a well-constructed innings from Chapman-Lilley. We could only get one off the last ball, though, and a fair result was accepted by all!

We added a Warwickshire U17 side to the fixture-list, which produced a highscoring 50-over contest, and we travelled to Malvern ready for a test. Sometimes in sport, you just need some things to go your way and, whilst we did a great job, we did have some good fortune, too: Bull’s first over included a big full-toss and then a ball that bounced sharply and forced the batsman – who had made a hundred already in the season – to drag the ball on; he finished with 3-17! In the next over, a ball from Chapman-Lilley bounced and beat the batsman, hit ’keeper Sookias on the shoulder, and bounced back onto the wicket for a stumping! A stunning Chapman-Lilley catch and a couple of run-outs added to a bowl-out for 126. After doing well against the new ball, we lost three wickets in a clump, only for Anoop Chima, the first B-blocker I have regularly selected for the 1st team, to put together a very competent 32 to see us home. We have had an excellent record against MCC recently and this continued, with Sookias’ and Harvey’s 50s being important after we bowled them out, but came unstuck against Shrewsbury when we struggled against their spinners, and against Uppingham, which was, in truth, a bad toss to lose, as their seamers bowled too well for us. Post Half-Term, a run of five wins in six games turned the season around. Chapman-Lilley’s batting was maturing well: consecutive scores of 85, 69, 1 and 96* saw him take the lead in the batting stakes.

Not to be outdone, though, Harvey, whilst not as fluent as last season, contributed heavily, with four scores of 50+, two of those 90+. To make over 500 runs in a school season – twice – is very impressive and was combined with some good bowling returns too. The latter games saw great wins away at Warwick, Ashville and against King Edward’s. The two-day game against Derbyshire U17s was a remarkable batting performance: an opening stand of 306 was broken only when Chapman-Lilley was dismissed for 176. This was the 5th highest 1st XI score of all time, in records that go back into the 1800s! He was partnered by Hobson, who made his first hundred for the School, still an A-blocker, and finished on 141*. The game finished in a draw; we perhaps could have won, but lacked the direction needed on the second day to get over the line. We finished the tour with a Festival at St Peter’s York, which we hope to make an annual event between the four participating schools. The battle for top wicket-taker was close all year between Bull and the ever-reliable Cheshire. Bull had an exceptional L6 year, but even that experience couldn’t quite get him over the line this time! He did, though, finish with over 70 1st XI wickets and a great record as a first-class contributor to the team. Cheshire, who made his debut at the start of the season and then became an ever-present, improved so much over the season and could not have deserved the honour of being top wicket-taker more:

his talismanic approach attracted many fans over the school term. Hobson became a real threat with his left-arm spin and no doubt we will see much of that, alongside off-spinner Buffin, in years to come.

P 20

Ab 1

XL CLUB

LOST BY 9 RUNS

In a season of success and challenge, the players learnt much and will be better players for the challenges faced this year. Led well by Captain James Sookias, who consistently demonstrated a secure and instinctive knowledge of the game, we were able to compete and play some cricket that was enjoyed by all who saw it. Sooks’ wicket-keeping was of a consistently high standard too: like good referees and umpires, you don’t notice good ’keepers if they are doing their job well! Standing back, especially, he was as good as any ’keeper on the circuit.

QUEEN ETHELBURGA’S COLLEGE

LOST BY 4 WKTS

I hope those who have moved on continue to play the game that has served them well during their time in the school and they recognise that Repton Cricket continues to need exceptional contributors to the sport to add to the legacy, of which they are now part.

WORKSOP COLLEGE

IMP

STAMFORD

TIE

WARWICKSHIRE U17

WON BY 17 RUNS

MALVERN COLLEGE

WON BY 6 WKTS

MCC

WON BY 7 WKTS

SHREWSBURY

LOST BY 123 RUNS

UPPINGHAM

LOST BY 6 WKTS ABANDONED

NOTTINGHAM HS

WON BY 9 RUNS

KES, BIRMINGHAM

WON BY 9 WKTS

TRENT COLLEGE

LOST BY 23 RUNS

ASHVILLE COLLEGE

WON BY 63 RUNS

DERBYSHIRE MINI ACADEMY

WON BY 4 WKTS

WARWICK

WON BY 88 RUNS

DERBYSHIRE U17

DRAW

EPSOM COLLEGE

LOST BY 8 WKTS

WARWICK

WON BY 7 WKTS

ST PETER’S, YORK

LOST BY 79 RUNS

CAPTAIN: J. Sookias (S) SQUAD: E. Berlusconi (L), T. Buffin (S), J. Bull (O), L. Brown (N), B. Chapman-Lilley (P), F. Cheshire (S), A. Chima (L), W. Cooling (N), T. Evans (C), C. Harvey (O), W. Hobson (S), K. Marcelle (L), M. Newstead (S), S. Sayer (C), S. Storer (P).

SPORT

The Reptonian 2017/2018

U15 A XI

2ND XI The opening game of the season was a battle of the extras, something that was to become a bit of a theme as the term went on. We bowled first and charitably gave away 23 wides, but Stamford were very generous in return, bowling 34 wides and giving away 47 extras in total (meaning we only scored 60 off the bat in 20 overs!). However, there were glimpses of what Balderston can provide with his slow left arm orthodox, which, when he gets it right, can bamboozle opponents at this level. There was frustration in the next game against Malvern, too, where we batted first and collapsed to 19-5 and 47-8, but Storer and Combellack at least gave us something to bowl at and Storer’s eye-catching 43, which included some clean striking, set the opposition a target of sorts – but they were always ahead of the run-rate in reply. We had a sniff against old rivals Shrewsbury in the next game, but again came up just short. Brown and Tarrant got us off to a solid start, scoring 24 and 26 respectively against two accurate opening bowlers, but it was Storer’s 65* that gave us a chance and earned him a call-up to the 1st team the following week. It was a close game and a much-improved performance, compared to the first two matches. This could not be said of the debacle against Uppingham, though! We bowled well and restricted them to just 102 off 20 overs and I thought our opening win

Somewhere inside this squad of players is a great cricket team just waiting to burst out. Sadly, we saw but a few fleeting glimpses of them over the course of the summer and, ultimately, the season came to a close with far fewer notches in the ‘W’ column than anyone would have liked. Will Hobson, one of last season’s strongest performers, was sent up to the 1st XI on a permanent basis and, with Matt Newstead also becoming an increasingly regular presence in the senior squad, we were always fighting against the odds.

was in sight. Balderston bowled well, once again, backed up by Hopkins’ best performance of the season and a decent start would have seen us win comfortably, but another collapse meant we were 7-3 and 26-4 in reply and, apart from Wanger’s busy 32 in the middle of the order, most of the team threw their wickets away and a fourth straight loss meant we were staring a really poor season in the face. Thankfully, on a rain-affected day at Worksop, we got off the mark with an excellent display. Hopkins was miserly with the ball, once again, and the decision was made to send ‘Pinch-hitter Proudlove’ in with the bat to try and get us off to a more positive start. It worked, as he and Jankinson laid the foundation for Evans to come in and dispatch some of their bowling in emphatic style. The final game, against a delightful Australian touring side – with no sandpaper in sight – was something of a mis-match, but at least afforded us a positive way to finish the season, in which there were some fine individual performances.

WGO CAPTAIN: G. Sheldon (L) SQUAD: W. Balderston (N), L. Brown (N), L. Combellack (S), W. Cooling (N), T. Evans (C), N. Fellows (S), T. Hopkins (C), L. Huffer (O), M. Jankinson (L), M. Proudlove (N), A. Rai (P), D. Rider (P), S. Storer (P), M. Tarrant (S), J. Wanger (S), J. Webb (S).

3RD XI Warning: if anyone consoles you, dear Reader, with the cliché that things can only get better, please be assured that this is not necessarily the case. Following the rebuilding phase last year, came, er, another rebuilding phase for the Mighty 3rd XI this season, as once again that ‘W’ in the results column proved elusive. There were moments of demon bowling, a few decent thwacks of the bat, some energetic fielding and even good catching, which surprised all watching – Edward Sheasby, take a bow; but, sadly these moments were just too few and far between, and they never quite all coincided in the same fixture. Happily, there was great enthusiasm and generally a sense of enjoyment throughout, epitomised by Captain Sheasby – far more important than any ‘W’s, surely? Next year?

NJK

STAMFORD 115-8 (RAI 3-19, BALDERSTON 2-16) REPTON 107-5

LOST BY 8 RUNS

REPTON 132 ALL OUT (STORER 43, COMBELLACK 27) MALVERN 135-6

LOST BY 4 WKTS

REPTON 157-3 (STORER 65*) SHREWSBURY 158-6 (BALDERSTON 3-38)

LOST BY 4 WKTS

CAPTAIN: E. Sheasby (S)

UPPINGHAM 102-7 (BALDERSTON 2-16, HOPKINS 2-12) REPTON 91-8 (WANGER 32)

LOST BY 3 WKTS

WORKSOP COLLEGE 116-4 (HOPKINS 1-5) REPTON 118-5 (JANKINSON 30, EVANS 39)

WON BY 5 WKTS

KENT STREET HS (AUSTRALIA) 94-6 REPTON 95-1

WON BY 9 WKTS

SQUAD: F. Byrne (S), K. Hirano (N), L. Huffer (O), W. Needham (N), J. Nelson (L), J. Pollard (L), S. Ramsden (L), J. Robson (L), J. Wanger (S), J. Webb (S).

The highlight of the season came in a rare opportunity to play on the Square against Notts High. The visitors took to the crease first, setting a very respectable target of 164, despite some excellent work in the field, most notably from the recent addition to our bowling line up, Ben Wheelton (3-26). Once the tables were turned, our batsmen started slowly, chipping away at the Notts total in controlled fashion. That was until Seb Sayer found the boundary with four consecutive balls to set the innings alight. Sayer would finish on 50 for the day and, with Jacob Davies weighing in

P 13

with a very mature 63, victory was secured. But there could have been so many more days like this. We made an impressive 178 in a T20 innings against Birkdale, including 78 from Sayer, but, sadly, having allowed the opposition 184 in the first innings, we came up short. Conversely, we twice had Trent College’s batsmen on the ropes, only to allow them to limp across the line: had we made ten more runs in our own innings, it may have been a different tale. Many of our batsmen showed they had runs to offer and, on its day, our bowling attack was as dangerous as almost all of those we faced; it was simply a lack of consistency that proved our downfall. So ended a difficult season. While, at times, it was a tough slog, this did serve to make the occasional high feel just that bit sweeter. Having benefited from the expert coaching of AJ Harris throughout the term, the players should at least reflect on a period of improving their fundamental cricketing skills and, hopefully, they will reap the rewards in summers to come.

L 10

REPTON 78-8 STAMFORD 79-1 OAKHAM

LOST BY 9 WKTS CANCELLED

SOUTH DERBYSHIRE 99-7 (SAYER 2-19, FYNN 2-23) REPTON 103-4 (DAVIES 37, DUNN 35*)

WON BY 6 WKTS

REPTON 87 ALL OUT MALVERN 88-1

LOST BY 9 WKTS

BIRKDALE 184-2 (HOBSON 2-28) REPTON 178-3 (SAYER 78

LOST BY 6 RUNS

SHREWSBURY 200-2 REPTON 76 ALL OUT (KIRTLAND 37)

LOST BY 124 RUNS

WEST PARK 102-5 (DYTHAM 2-11, TOMALIN 2-19) REPTON 107-3 (BERLUSCONI 53)

WON BY 7 WKTS

REPTON 57 ALL OUT UPPINGHAM 58-4 (TOMALIN 2-18)

LOST BY 6 WKTS

REPTON 93 ALL OUT (CHIMA 40) TRENT COLLEGE 97-6 (TOMALIN 2-12)

LOST BY 4 WKTS

REPTON 130-3 (SAYER 88*) WORKSOP COLLEGE 134-0

LOST BY 10 WKTS

DERBYSHIRE U14 241-4 REPTON 106 ALL OUT

LOST BY 135 RUNS

NOTTINGHAM HS 164-9 (WHEELTON 3-26, SAYER 2-22) REPTON 167-5 (DAVIES 63, SAYER 50)

WON BY 5 WKTS

REPTON 102-9 TRENT COLLEGE 103-7 (TOMALIN 3-20, FYNN 2-30)

LOST BY 3 WKTS

REPTON 151-3 (SAYER 72) WARWICK 152-3

LOST BY 7 WKTS

CAPTAIN: W Wright (O) SQUAD: J. Davies (O), T. Dunn (O), M. Dytham (M), G. Fynn (S), G. Kirtland (N), S. Sayer (C), J. Sherry (L), W. Tomalin (N), B. Wanger (S), B. Wheelton (S). ALSO PLAYED: E. Berlusconi (L), T. Bloor (S), B. Bond (N), A. Chima (L), J. Ford (S), W. Hobson (S), J. Hornsey (O), M. Kennedy (N), A. Mair (P), M. Newstead (S), O. Randall (O), M. Stanojevic (L).

U15 B & C XIs P

U15 B XI

U15 C XI

U15 B SQUAD: T. Bloor (S), A. Collier (N), W. Collins (P), E. Fluck (L), J. Ford (S), J. Hornsey (O), M. Kennedy (N), M. Krivonogov (L), F. Nelson (L), J. Newbould (S), T. Owen (N), L. Platts (P), D. Robinson (S), M. Stanojevic (L). ALSO PLAYED: O. Scutt (L), B. Wheelton (S). U15 C CAPTAIN: J. Raine (C) U15 C SQUAD: M. Archer (P), K. Kurmaly (C), M. Lewis (P), R. Mahan (P), K. Modhwadia (N), M. Newton (C), S. Okunoye (C), L. Platts (P), J. Thompson-Dykes (P), S. Yates (O).

SPORT

The Reptonian 2017/2018

U14 A XI CAPTAINS: A. Chima (L) & O. Randall (O) SQUAD: E. Berlusconi (L), B. Bond (N), S. Butler (F), J. Earwicker (S), J. Jacques (P), A. Mair (P), W. Orpin (C), J. Riley (P), T. Scannell (L), J. Truelove-Cooke (N), W. Wade (O), J. Williams (S). ALSO PLAYED: M. Ainger (N) With a valuable winter nets programme completed and many talented all-rounders in the squad, there was a good deal of optimism at the start of the Summer Term and a feeling that this could be a truly competitive U14 A team. This proved to be the case, the team going on to win 12 of their 15 matches, including the County Championship! Early matches revealed a naivety about their play, though, which needed addressing. Time spent educating the players about fielding, field placement and effective game-management was worthwhile; improvements in these areas ensured that this was a difficult team to beat. Indeed, as the term went on, the uplift in energy and authority in the field was one of the most satisfying aspects of the team’s development. Berlusconi proved to be the pick of the batsmen; his attacking style provided the platform for many of the team’s successes. When not playing for the 1st XI, Anoop Chima was also hugely influential with the bat, averaging 108, but his swing-bowling, his energy in the field, his confident captaincy and, just as

P 15

W 12

REPTON 132-4 (BOND 27, MAIR 26) STAMFORD 122-4 (BERLUSCONI 5-23) OAKHAM

The depth of our bowling attack was a notable strength. Whilst we, perhaps, lacked a devastating individual who could wipe out an opponent’s top order, we did have at least eight genuinely capable bowlers – including excellent spin from Berlusconi, Mair and Riley – that could provide accurate and tight deliveries, from which it was often hard to generate runs. Indeed, the capacity to limit the run-rate and to build pressure was another significant reason for the team’s success. The highlight of the term was the majestic performance against Ecclesbourne, in the County Cup semi-final – what a destructive performance! – paving the way for the Final that proved to be a very straightforward contest. To be County Champions is a notable achievement and I have every confidence that this set of players will enjoy considerable success with Repton next year and, in time, with the 1st XI. They were a delight to look after and I wish them well for the future. Significant thanks, of course, must go to Mr Afford, who was a truly inspirational coach and ensured that each member of this squad improved significantly as a player.

THN U14 County Cup (T20) Final - CHAMPIONS

WON BY 10 RUNS CANCELLED

R1 REPTON 87-0 (BERLUSCONI 56*, CHIMA 25*) KIRK HALLAM COMM. COLLEGE 48 ALL OUT

WON BY 10 WKTS

R2 REPTON 142-3 (CHIMA 68; RANDALL 47*) TRENT COLLEGE 96-6

WON BY 46 RUNS WON BY 123 RUNS WON BY 10 WKTS

REPTON 174-5 (BERLUSCONI 85) MALVERN 177-5

LOST BY 5 WKTS

REPTON 122-5 (BERLUSCONI 78) KES, BIRMINGHAM 116-3

WON BY 6 RUNS

SF REPTON 213-5 (CHIMA 108, BERLUSCONI 50, BOND 38) ECCLESBOURNE 90-4

REPTON 122-8 (JACQUES 29) BIRKDALE 80 ALL OUT

WON BY 42 RUNS

FINAL QEGS, ASHBOURNE 44 ALL OUT REPTON 46-0

SHREWSBURY 144-8 (BOND 3-23) REPTON 112 ALL OUT (BERLUSCONI 46)

LOST BY 32 RUNS

DERBYSHIRE U13 216-4 REPTON 220-6 (BERLUSCONI 91, CHIMA 75)

WON BY 4 WKTS

REPTON 220-3 (BERLUSCONI 78, RANDALL 63) UPPINGHAM 184-8

WON BY 36 RUNS

DENSTONE COLLEGE 43 ALL OUT (ORPIN 3-5) REPTON 44-1 (CHIMA 32*)

WON BY 10 WKTS

WORKSOP COLLEGE

significantly, his ability to instil confidence in those around him, were all vital to our success, too. Owen Randall was a committed and reliable leader and obviously has considerable potential as a batsman, whilst his excellent wicket-keeping was always tight and efficient. As the term went on, more players contributed more significantly with the bat – Bond, Orpin and Wade being the most obvious names to mention.

U14 B XI This year’s U14 Bs were the best in several years: they trained hard, played some great games of cricket and were positive and enthusiastic throughout (even when being thumped by Shrewsbury!). The wins against Oakham, Uppingham and Trent were particularly impressive, as they produced fine bowling and fielding performances to defend moderate targets. Most of the defeats came when batting second, as the pressure of the chase became too much and wickets fell regularly. This is certainly something for the boys to learn from for next year. Although it was more a season of consistent team performances than stunning individual ones, some highlights do stand out. In particular, Crispin Jackson’s 5-40 against Shrewsbury and Willoughby Hooper-Smith’s 4-20 against Malvern made it on to IMP’s ‘star performances’ list. Overall, with Zack Brough, Jim Earwicker and Sam Cunningham at the top of the order, and Michael Ainger, Cunningham and Hooper-Smith with the ball, they have the basis of a very strong team that should achieve success in years to come. After a difficult first game against a very organised Foremarke team, the U14 C squad had a very successful season, winning all their remaining fixtures – apart from against Shrewsbury, where not even a swashbuckling 66 from Henry Dunn could save the day. The team was superbly captained by Henry Gilby, who played with great enthusiasm and energy, his 15 wickets leading the bowling attack, where he was ably supported by Rohit Khosla, Tehmur Chohan and Ben Adshead. The batting was usually impressive: opposition teams struggled to restrict the power and finesse of Tom Whitwell, Karan Wadhwani and Freddie Dumbill. Special mention should go to Fraser Davis’ quickfire 21 against Foremarke – sadly the only resistance that day.

ARC/MWTH & KPM

U14 C XI P

U14 B

U14 C

U14 B SQUAD: M. Ainger (N), Z. Brough (S), R. Cheung (C), T, Chohan (C), S. Cunningham (O), F. Dumbill (P), H. Dunn (S), J. Earwicker (S), H. Gilby (S), T. Hawksworth (N), W. Hooper-Smith (O), W. Ingham (P), C. Jackson (O), C. Tarrant (S). U14 C CAPTAIN: H. Gilby (S) U14 C SQUAD: B. Adshead (P), E. Ashton (C), J. Bramfitt (S), T. Chohan (C), S. Clark (O), W. Cooper (O), F. Davis (O), F. Dumbill (P), H. Dunn (P), S. Donegan (N), C. Gracie-Ainscough (N), R. Khosla (C), W. Lunn (C), M. Mackrill (C), E. Nto (P), J. Presley-King (L), D. Russell (S), H. Solomon (P), K. Wadhwani (P), T. Whitwell (P).

CANCELLED

REPTON 169-5 (ORPIN 52) NOTTINGHAM HS 123 ALL OUT (MAIR 3-21)

WON BY 46 RUNS

REPTON 163-5 (BOND 59, WADE 41*) TRENT COLLEGE 164-4

LOST BY 6 WKTS

REPTON 178-7 (BOND 85*) WARWICK SCHOOL 171-8 (SCANNELL 2-22)

WON BY 7 RUNS

SPORT TENNIS

The Reptonian 2017/2018

1ST VI

U15 A VI

The summer of 2017 will be remembered as a very good one: Repton fielded what could arguably be its strongest ever Girls’ 1st team in both regular fixtures and the Aberdare Cup.

This was an extremely encouraging term for this excellent group of girls. They trained extremely hard week in, week out, and were just an extremely delightful bunch of girls to coach.

The season kicked off with a solid 7-2 win against a useful Trent side. Mae Fitzgerald, making her 1st team debut, set an incredibly high standard with partner Lizzie Allwood: they won all three sets without dropping a single game. This was matched by Captain Claudia Johnson and Mimi Tarrant, with Fenella Scutt and Lydia Morris completing the win with a good result against Trent’s third pair, to set the standard for the rest of the season. The following week saw the girls destroy Oakham 9-0, which was very impressive, especially as the Oakham girls turned up intending to cause an upset! The team of Allwood/Davey, Johnson/Tarrant and Fitzgerald/Morris whitewashed the opposition in double-quick time. Rugby were potentially the toughest opposition: Allwood/Fitzgerald had two tight matches, but ultimately showed their skill by coming through unscathed; Johnson/Tarrant continued their partnership, also claiming all three sets; Morris/Lea battled well against the Rugby first and second pairs, beating the third pair to claim another overall win! On a baking hot day in the middle of June, the senior girls made the longer journey to Oundle and it proved to be a worthwhile trip. As the thermostat hit 32 degrees, the girls took to the courts with a strong line-up: Devey Smith, having returned from international tournament duty, made her debut partnering Allwood – a formidable pair – winning 6-0, 6-1, 6-0! Johnson/Davey were also in no mood for spending any more time on court than necessary, winning 6-1, 6-0, 6-1. Fitzgerald/Scutt had two good wins 6-4, 6-0, but just came undone against the Oundle first pair 3-6. Unfortunately, this rare bout of sunshine didn’t hold up, the following week’s fixture against Uppingham falling foul to a deluge of rain. Overall, it was a fantastic season, with some superb tennis played by this group of talented girls. The Aberdare Cup National Competition started with the short journey to Derby High. Even without Devey Smith, the team ran out convincing winners, next hosting a strong Leicester Grammar team: Allwood, Johnson and Fitzgerald came through their matches, with a couple of frights along the way; the closest match came at number one, with Devey Smith pulling through in a tight three-setter, 6-4, 5-7, 10-5. The final round of qualifying saw the girls up against Bedford Girls’, Devey Smith, Johnson and Fitzgerald all coming through their singles in comprehensive fashion to put Repton within one match of the National Finals. Allwood made sure of qualification, with a 6-1, 6-7, 10-8 singles win.

TENNIS GIRLS’ The National Finals were held at the impressive Nottingham Tennis Centre. Unfortunately, the opening day’s play was interrupted by poor weather. However, this didn’t affect the girls’ concentration, as they won the first round convincingly against Cokethorpe to put us through to the last eight. A draw against the top seeds proved a bridge too far: a long day on court and some closely-fought matches saw the girls lose out to Queenswood. The next day’s play was once again rainaffected, so the girls took to the indoor courts to face Bournemouth College in what turned out to be the clash of the week: Fitzgerald and Johnson got Repton off to a great start, winning their singles matches. However, the Bournemouth numbers one and two defeated Devey Smith and Allwood in two incredibly close singles matches: Allwood having had two match points in her favour, missed out 6-1, 1-6, 9-11! The doubles was also split, meaning the match was poised at 6-6 and a shoot-out (first to 10 points) was needed. Devey Smith and Johnson stepped forward to take the responsibility and gave it all they could, but lost out 8-10 in incredibly unlucky circumstances! The final day saw the girls comfortable winners against Wilmslow High School, finishing on a high after a tough week of tennis, seventh in the nation. Well done to all the girls involved and a special thanks to 2017 Captain, Claudia Johnson.

JWR

CAPTAIN: C. Johnson (A) CUP SQUAD: E. Allwood (A), E. Buffin (M), H. Davey (F), E. Devey Smith (G), M. Fitzgerald (M). SQUAD: E. Allwood (A), H. Davey (F), M. Devey Smith (G), M. Fitzgerald (M), L. Morris (A), F. Scutt (G), A. Tarrant (M).

TRENT COLLEGE

W 7-2

OAKHAM

W 9-0

RUGBY

W 7-2

OUNDLE

W 8-1

UPPINGHAM

CANCELLED

Georgia Brown and Ella Buffin made a solid first pairing: their efforts last year in B-block allowed them to understand their own strength and weaknesses and they certainly play brilliantly as a team. Their serving, as well as volleying, in each game was consistent, as was their communication and movement around the court. The girls were caught off-guard when they came up against a well-drilled Rugby team, but nevertheless should not be disappointed with their efforts.

2ND & 3RD VIs The 2nd and 3rd VIs were represented by a large squad: often, academic commitments took priority, creating an excellent opportunity to share match play, with different pairings making for exciting tennis. However, our results reflect a turbulent season: with so many changes of players, it was difficult to settle into a team and work on specific areas during training. Nonetheless, I felt the girls always gave a very respectable account of themselves and fought hard in every match until the final point. There were many highlights of the season. Arabella Brinkman made a significant contribution as a new L6-former and always looked determined on court with her partner,

Aberdare Cup P7 W5 L2 REGIONAL QUALIFIERS R1 DERBY HS

W 12-0

R2 LEICESTER GS

W 8-0

R3 BEDFORD GIRLS’

W 8-0

NATIONAL FINALS – 7TH PLACE COKETHORPE

W 8-0

QUEENSWOOD

L 0-8

EASTBOURNE COLLEGE

L 6-7

WILMSLOW HS

W 8-0

Fran Brown and Gabby White were a pairing from Half-Term and worked well together: both have fabulous ground strokes, Fran playing with superb topspin on both the forehand and backhand side, which forced opposition teams to the back of the court, allowing Gabby to counter-attack at the net. I hope they will continue to develop next year in O-block. Maddi Lea or Venetia Mair. The stalwart combo of Emma Girling-Budd and Lydia Johnson were always ones to watch, Johnson’s pacy serves only matched by Girling-Budd’s ninja net-skills; this unassuming pair caught a few confident oppositions out. Arabella Heap and Serena Winn-Darley made a feisty duo on court: their dynamic swapping of sides during points meant they covered all the court and tirelessly kept the point in play until the opportunity for a winner arose.

Mia Swain and Jessie Smith had arguably the hardest job, filling in the third pair slot, but they coped with the pressures of this brilliantly. Mia developed her consistency from the back of the court, learning to be patient enough to allow the opposition to make the mistakes. Jessie improved hugely: her fast footwork meant that she could put herself in a more attacking position on court, putting the opposition on the back foot.

It was a pleasure to watch the girls enjoying their tennis in a very busy exam term – and I hope the Tennis programme gave them some relief from their academic studies of an afternoon! Well done, girls.

It was disappointing not to have the unbeaten season that we were after, but I can honestly say that they have a fabulous attitude and I am sure they will go one better next year.

GKR

2ND & 3RD VI SQUAD: A. Brinkman (G), E. Girling-Budd (A), A. Heap (M), J. Hibell (M), L. Johnson (A), M. Lea (M), V. Mair (F), C. Newstead (M), E. Nieper (F), G. Renshaw (M), E. Ross (G), O. Stocks (G), I. Winn-Darley (M), S. Winn-Darley (M).

2nd VI

ALSO PLAYED: L. Bobone Mendia de Castro (F), E. Buckland (M), E. Ewins (G), S. Karpova (G), T. Lloyd (A), B. McClarron (G), L. Morris (A), G. Needham (A), F. Scutt (G), A. Tarrant (M), M. Wray (G).

MALVERN

L 3-6

TRENT COLLEGE

W 8-1

OAKHAM

W 9-0

SHREWSBURY

W 9-0

UPPINGHAM

CANCELLED

RUGBY

L 3-6

OUNDLE

L 2-7

3rd VI

SQUAD: F. Brown (M), G. Brown (M), E. Buffin (M), J. Smith (M), M. Swain (M), G. White (F).

TRENT COLLEGE

W 9-0

OAKHAM

W 6-3

LEICESTER GS

W 12-0

SHREWSBURY

W 8-1

RUGBY

L 2-7

SPORT

The Reptonian 2017/2018

U15 B & C VIs

U14 A VI

The girls’ U15 B side ended the season with a 100% record, winning all of their fixtures in emphatic fashion. We used a variety of girls at third pair, but Imogen Hatton and Charly Archer were ever-presents at first pair, with Charlotte Morris, Millie Cann and Katie Fulford rotating at second. The final pairing was completed by Jess Archer-Reed, Sophie Corner or Alex Berger, who all played their part in an impressive season. Many of these girls would have normally found themselves playing for the A team, such was our strength-in-depth in this age group. We started the season brightly, demolishing Malvern 9-0, with few games dropped across the pairings. There were similarly comprehensive performances against Trent and Shrewsbury, but our toughest tests were at Oakham and Rugby, respectively. At Oakham, several games went down to the wire and we were 3-3 going into the final round. All the pairings showed character to pull out victories in the final round, to make the score-line seem perhaps more comfortable than it was. Against Rugby, we arrived with little practice time and the windy conditions, coupled with an unfamiliar AstroTurf surface, meant we took a while to find our rhythm. We eventually ground out a hard-fought 6-3 victory, despite being without two of our stalwarts. Millie Cann and Sophie Corner were the pick of the pairings, finishing the day unbeaten. Over the course of the season, we had too much power, consistency and guile for the majority of our opposition and no opposition pairing managed to beat all three of our pairs. On a personal level, the girls were a delight to train and accompany to matches and they matched their competitive edge with sportsmanship at all times. It was an exciting season for the U15 C team, winning three out of their four matches. The first two were played with confidence and ease, with all three pairs winning all their matches to give us valiant wins 9-0 against Malvern and Trent. Oakham was a little more of a challenge, but we still showed great determination and resilience to make sure that we came home with another 6-3 win. Unfortunately, we saw the season out with a defeat by Rugby, 3-6, but the girls remained positive and are looking forward to the challenges that next season will bring.

MRW & AG

U15 B SQUAD: C. Archer (M), J. Archer-Reed (F), A. Berger (F), E. Cann (A), S. Corner (G), K. Fulford (F), I. Hatton (G), C. Morris (A). U15 C SQUAD: J. Archer-Reed (F), A. Berger (F), E. Bond (F), A. Harcus (A), S. Ktori (A), C. Luke (F), E. Smith (F), S. Walker (A).

U15 B

U15 C

U14 A SQUAD: E. Barlow (G), K. Chaibi (G), P. Plant (M), E. Scutt (M), C. Steele (A), Z. Wedgwood (A). It depends upon the way in which one judges performance. If we were to base it on results, then obviously it was a tough term for the U14 A team. However, with my pedagogical hat on, this was a term full of progress and improvement. Many of the team learnt how to play doubles – and properly. They learnt how to play a tie-break. They learnt that saying, ‘good shot!’ or ‘don’t worry!’ to their partner when they are having a nightmare with the serve can be a game-changing moment. They learnt how to conduct themselves in a match (and, I have to say, they did this with particular grace and poise) and they learnt a skill that they will hopefully use for the rest of their lives. I could happily spout lyrical about Ellie Barlow’s killer inside-out forehands that are virtually untouchable, or Emma Scutt’s crafty and cunning left-handed serve that puts unsuspecting opponents into the fencing. I could also talk of Zara Wedgwood’s calm, consistent demeanour – until you give her a volley and then you’re really in trouble – or maybe Phoebe Plant’s backhand blinders that come from nowhere. Kahina Chaibi was the terrier of the team, scuttling about at the back, retrieving balls from all over the court, and Charlotte Steele remained unruffled even in the most testing of circumstances (pretty impressive, considering she P4 W1 L3 had never played tennis MALVERN L 4-5 before). All of these girls performed brilliantly and TRENT COLLEGE W 5-4 are coming on in leaps and OAKHAM L 4-5 bounds; I look forward to watching them in years UPPINGHAM CANCELLED to come. Thank you for a RUGBY L 1-8 lovely term, girls. OUNDLE

NMD

CANCELLED

U14 B & C VIs The U14 B girls enjoyed a successful season. Despite being deemed a summer sport, the girls were faced with some truly awful weather, so much so, the fixture against Uppingham was cancelled. Nevertheless, the girls approached every fixture in true Reptonian fashion and the entire squad made excellent progress over the course of the season. The girls first faced Malvern, making the fixture look extremely straightforward, taking the match 9-0. Closer matches were had against Trent and Rugby: the girls battled hard against a talented Trent squad, beating them by just one set. It was an enjoyable term of tennis, and such a pleasure to coach a delightful group of girls. The U14 C team were also a fantastic group of girls, who really enjoyed improving their skills week on week, training with focus and a determination to do their best. They played very well during all their fixtures, with delightful enthusiasm and they achieved some impressive results. Well done to all!

SMB & SJL P

U14 B

U14 C

U14 B SQUAD: K. Gabriel (G), S. Haigh (M), I. Mansfield (M), J. Milligan-Manby (F), H. Nieper (F), A. Tertychnaya (G). U14 C SQUAD: A. Albone (F), O. Ellis (G), S. Haigh (M), P. Hix (G), A. Leverton (A), E. Martin (M), J. Milligan-Manby (F), A. Naylor (M), L. Ramsden (F).

TENNIS BOYS’ SENIOR BOYS It was an action-packed year for the Boys’ 1st team of 2017! New fixtures in place, plus the addition of the National Club League, allowed for a very busy tennis schedule. With early fixtures against the University of Nottingham and CBLTC, preparation for the National Qualifying started well; both fixtures offered a real test for the lads against older opposition. Throughout the season, the National Club League competition allowed the team a chance to play both singles and doubles and gain some much-needed match court experience. Four impressive fixtures later, the team won the Division, having dispatched all opposition. The qualifying for the Glanvill Cup started in March, the team requiring four wins to progress through to July’s National Finals. First up came a home tie against Lincoln Minster, which proved to be a comfortable opener for the team: a clean sweep in the singles, followed by the doubles, resulted in a 12-0 win. Leicester Grammar were next up and this match went in a similar fashion, the match put to bed before we stepped on court for the doubles round. The penultimate qualifier saw us up against the potentially tough opposition of Boston Grammar. After the singles, Repton led 3-1, with wins from Michael Herbert, Tom Nevill and Fin Dearsly, with only Martin Thomas coming unstuck at number one in two tight sets. This meant doubles would be played, with Repton only requiring one to progress. This can sometimes prove tricky, as both pairs expect the other to complete the job and, before you know it, both matches can be lost! This wasn’t to be the case; the team showed great professionalism in winning both in straight sets, Thomas getting revenge against the player he’d lost

to in the singles. All in all, it was a pleasing win and onto the final qualifying match, which was a home match against Hall Cross Academy, which turned out to be a brilliant way to end the term. With a much older team than ours, Hall Cross knew how to make things uncomfortable, but the lads showed great resilience and their quality came through. Herbert, at number four, was very convincing in his 6-2, 6-2 win; Nevill at three had the toughest battle, finally winning 5-7, 7-6, 10-5; Captain Davies won two tight sets 7-6, 6-4; Thomas, at number one, came through a gruelling match 6-1, 3-6, 10-6. Even though the fixture had been won, doubles was still played, with split results meaning a final score of 10-2 and a place in the National Finals secured!

final-set tie-break 4-6, 7-6, 10-2; Thomas and Davies were both defeated in straight sets, but Murphy, making his singles debut, played an outstanding match, eventually falling just short 1-6, 6-2, 11-13 – having unfortunately not been able to convert match points. The final day’s play, against St Peter’s, gave the opportunity for the team to play on the stadium court at Nottingham. Yet again, the depth of our team came into play, with Murphy and Herbert winning their singles to give us a 2-0 lead – soon cancelled out, as Thomas and Davies missed out, to take the match into the doubles, evenly poised at 2-2. The doubles was split: this time Thomas/Davies were the victors in a closely-fought 2-6, 6-3, 10-8 match, with Murphy/Hebert defeated in three sets.

The top 16 teams in the nation came to Nottingham Tennis Centre to compete over four days. The first round draw against Ellesmere went down to the wire, the teams tied after the completion of both the singles and doubles, Repton’s singles wins coming from Dearsly and Herbert and the doubles from Herbert and James Murphy (making his 1st team debut). With the match tied at 3-3, a shoot-out was required. Unfortunately, our strongest pair of Thomas/Herbert never quite got going and were defeated 6-10: a disappointing result, which meant a backwards step in the draw, with a best finish of ninth place available.

So, after a long week and similar to the opening day’s play, the match would be decided with a shoot-out. After racing into a sizeable lead, Thomas/Davies managed to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory! It was incredibly disappointing for the lads, having come so close; however, their effort was faultless – as it had been all season – so thank you to all the lads for representing the School so professionally, and a special mention to our Captain, Will Davies, who has been a fantastic role model throughout his five years at the school.

JWR

The boys bounced back the following day, beating Bishop’s Stortford comprehensively, not dropping a single set! Day Three saw the lads up against Bede’s, who lined up, on paper, much stronger than the Repton team. Although the end result was a 2-8 defeat, there were plenty of positives to take: Herbert produced some brilliant tennis to win his singles in a

Glanville Cup

CAPTAIN: W. Davies (O) CUP SQUAD: F. Dearsly (C), M. Herbert (C), J. Murphy (S), T. Nevill (O), M. Thomas (O). 1ST VI SQUAD: F. Dearsly (C), A. Field (L), M. Herbert (C), J. Murphy (S), T. Nevill (O), M. Thomas (O).

KNIGHTON TC

W 8-4

REGIONAL QUALIFIERS

WORCESTER LTC

W 10-2

R1 LINCOLN MINSTER

W 12-0

LOUGHBOROUGH ENDOWED

W 5-4

R2 LEICESTER GS

W 8-0

TRENT COLLEGE

W 7-2

R3 BOSTON GS

W 10-2

CHURCH BROUGHTON LTC

W 6-3

R4 HALL CROSS ACADEMY

W 8-0

SHREWSBURY

W 5-4

NATIONAL FINALS

UNIVERSITY OF NOTTINGHAM

D 3-3

ELLESMERE COLLEGE

UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD

CANCELLED

BISHOP’S STORTFORD COLLEGE

L 6-7 W 12-0

LEAMINGTON LTC

W 8-4

BEDE’S

L 2-8

ASHBY CASTLE LTC

W 12-0

ST PETER’S RC HS

L 6-7

SPORT

The Reptonian 2017/2018

JUNIOR BOYS It was an exciting year for the Boys’ U15 A team, particularly with the road to the National Finals starting so early in the year and concluding in December. The squad of 6 players, from A- and B-block, showed great team spirit, starting with wins over Loughborough Grammar, Shrewsbury and Warwick. The entire team focuses on tennis through all three terms, which is why they showed such a great rapport during fixtures. The National qualifying campaign started off with a comfortable County phase, defeating all other Derbyshire schools, the highlight being a 12-0 victory over QEGS. This propelled the team into the knockout rounds, which is ultimately the crunch phase of the event: any slip-ups would result in elimination. However, the lads showed no mercy against Tapton, 10-2, and Notts High, 12-0! This meant Repton were seeded one for the Regional Finals; however, with three other strong teams on show, a place in the National Finals was not guaranteed. The boys were very professional with the way they started the Regionals against Rugby and, with comfortable wins for Whitwell and Ottewell in their singles, the Repton team led 2-0. This was backed up by Murphy and Hawkins, who also won their singles to reach an unassailable 4-0 lead! With an impressive showing on the doubles court, both pairs won to brush Rugby aside 12-0 and book a place in the final against Leicester Grammar. After the first round of matches, Repton led 2-1, with wins from the impressive doubles combination of Ottewell/ Whitwell and a singles win from Hawkins, 6-2, Murphy just missing out at number 1 in a closely-fought match, 5-7. The second round saw a clean sweep for Repton, with Ottewell and Whitwell sweeping the opposition aside in their singles, while Murphy/Hawkins ran out comfortable winners, 6-2, giving Repton an overall 10-2 win and a place at the National Finals! The Finals were held once again at the impressive Bolton Arena, with only the top four schools competing. The opening match proved to be the toughest of the week, the lads losing out to the top seeds, Culford. There were some promising performances; however, the strength of Culford came through. The afternoon match versus Bournemouth also proved a bridge too far, but the team was growing into the event and looking more and more comfortable against top, national standard

opposition: Ottewell got a singles win and both Hawkins and Whitwell gave good showings and came close. The final day’s play was a really competitive match against defending champions, Merchiston Castle. Whitwell came incredibly close in the opening singles and, if he had taken the chances he created, there’s no doubt it would have put a win on the board for Repton. However, the disappointment of going 1-0 down was extinguished as Ottewell played the best tennis of the weekend to win his singles and equalise, 1-1. Hawkins also showed great attitude on court in his singles, but just missed a few too many chances to get over the finish line. So, after a great effort in the singles, Repton were 1-3 down and required both doubles to tie the match. This nearly came about: Ottewell/Whitwell played a fantastic match to claw us back to 2-3 and throw the baton over to Murphy/Hawkins – who gave it their all, but just fell short. It was a pleasure to be in charge of this team – and credit to them for the outstanding effort and achievement they showed to finish fourth out of the original 1,250 schools that entered the competition! I look forward to seeing how this group of boys will progress as they move towards Senior Tennis.

JWR

CAPTAIN: J. Murphy (S). U15 NATIONALS SQUAD: W. Hawkins (L), A. Ottewell (N), T. Whitwell (P). U15 A SQUAD: G. Goodley (L), W. Hawkins (L), K. Höppner (L), S. Kang (O), A. Ottewell (N), T. Whitwell (P).

U15 A VI

LOUGHBOROUGH GS

W 5-4

SHREWSBURY

W 6-3

TRENT COLLEGE WARWICK

CANCELLED W 9-0

U15 National Competition P7 W4 L3 REGIONAL QUALIFIERS TAPTON

W 10-2

NOTTINGHAM HS

W 12-0

RUGBY

W 12-0

LEICESTER GS

W 10-2

NATIONAL FINALS - 4TH PLACE CULFORD

L 0-6

BOURNEMOUTH COLLEGIATE

L 1-5

MERCHISTON CASTLE

L 2-4

FOOTBALL 1ST XI At the usual curtain-raiser, the ISFA Sixes, with new players not yet bedded-in, we took a while to hit our stride. A poor performance against Forest School saw our hopes end at the quarter-final stage, but there was enough to suggest we could fashion a very good eleven-a-side team. This was the inaugural season of the Hudl Independent Schools’ League – eight of the best teams in ISFA football – quickly establishing itself as a premier competition with an amazing trophy to match. We started our campaign strongly with a fine 3-2 away win at Bradfield, who were among the pre-season favourites – an outstanding performance that helped set the benchmark for the season. We followed this up with a 0-0 against Millfield before consecutive wins against Charterhouse, Shrewsbury and Hampton. This took us into the Lent Term, against another strongly-fancied side in Royal Russell. Despite a near five-hour journey, we secured a hugely-impressive 4-0 victory to leave us within touching distance of the title. A tough trip to Bede’s in April saw us needing to avoid a six-goal defeat to lift the trophy: we duly fought out a 3-3 draw to top the League by three clear points from Millfield! As this competition establishes itself, it will become one of the most difficult titles to win and will be seen as a true test of form and performance over the course of a full season. It was also a memorable season in the ISFA Cup. We had some tough draws along the way, none more so than a first-round away trip to Queen Ethelburga’s. The side, at this time, was still gelling and we found

CAPTAIN: L. Tandy (N) SQUAD: A. Aliev (P), M. Barnes-Batty (C), M. Bowman (S), T. Buffin (S), C. Cottis (P), A. Edwards (O), M. Ferrinho (O), O. Hickman (O), L. Huffer (O), E. Killington (S), K. Nijjar (C), J. Parton (C), J. Pollard (L), J. Raine (C), T. Redhead (O), E. Sawyers (O), M. Stanojevic (L), O. Williams (O). ALSO PLAYED: S. Armstrong (C), D. Uffang (P), J. Hackett (C). ourselves 0-1 down with twenty minutes left. However, Elliot Killington equalised, before Charlie Cottis grabbed his first ever Repton goal with an extra-time winner. A routine 3-0 win in Round Two, with a brace from Otis Williams, saw another unkind draw in Round Three: although at home, our Hudl ISL competitors, Bede’s, had a strong reputation. However, we needn’t have worried, running out 6-1 winners in a dominant performance. This brought Harrow in a tough quarter-final on The Square. Although they were strong competitors, we comfortably won 2-0 to set up an away semi-final at Eton. This was a cagey affair, some 350 Etonians lining the touchline. In the second half we took control, an Oliver Hickman header sealing victory. And so on to the ISFA Cup Final, our first since 2010. Bradfield had been our strongest opponents all season and we needed to be at our best to beat them. We weren’t. The serious injury to Tommy Redhead had robbed us of our midfield balance and Bradfield took advantage, racing into a 2-0 lead at half-time. We rallied brilliantly and made it 2-1 through Jake Raine. However, their ’keeper injured himself, the 8-minute delay taking momentum away, before poor defending saw Bradfield make it 3-1, while their sub ’keeper made unbelievable

saves from Hickman and Elijah Sawyers. A disappointing way to end the campaign, but the experience and achievement of reaching the Final should not be underestimated. Success in both the ISFA and ESFA Cups is incredibly rare, yet we managed this feat. The early rounds were relatively comfortable, although the Round Four victory away at perennial challengers Balby Carr is worthy of particular note. An incredibly tight first half against South Hunsley (away) in the quarter-final gave no indication of the phenomenal performance to follow, which gave us a tough-looking semi-final against regular winners, Thomas Telford – the most successful U18 side in the country over the last decade. Not for the first time this season, we responded better than our opponents to the awful weather conditions. A 2-0 lead with twenty to go was pulled back to 2-1. However, a wonderful long-range finish by Tom Buffin secured a superb away win, marred only by a season-ending knee injury to our fabulous midfielder, Redhead: how we were to miss his contribution over the final games of the season. This remarkable second major final of the season was the first time it had been an all-ISFA affair and interestingly pitted us against Millfield: despite an entry of over 400 schools, we ended up playing the

SPORT runners-up to us in the Hudl League! On a blisteringly hot May afternoon at the Keepmoat Stadium in Doncaster, we took a 1-0 lead through a Jake Raine screamer from outside the area. Chances came for both sides, but we still felt in control, although, when Killington and Artem Aliev hit the woodwork, we did wonder whether a second would come. Some great work by Sawyers saw him set up Buffin for a first-time finish to give us a 2-0 lead. Millfield cut the deficit in injury-time, but we held on as Man-of the-Match Luke Tandy lifted Repton’s first ever ESFA Cup to emotional scenes – only the third independent school ever to lift the trophy. This was a true team performance in every sense of the word, with every single player putting in a wonderfully strong display. We wanted to retain the ISFA Northern Eights trophy for the fourth consecutive year as well as reach both the Derbyshire and Staffordshire County Finals for the third successive season. The Eights title was secured after topping a relatively straightforward group, followed by a semi-final against Queen Ethelburga’s, where we needed all our character to recover from 0-1 down and claim a 3-1 victory: a very professional performance. The final was a repeat of the previous year’s with old rivals, Shrewsbury: a cagey match turned our way as Merlin Ferrinho smashed the ball into the Shrewsbury net just a few minutes from time. There were some excellent performances, particularly as we kicked off this gruelling tournament just 36 hours after the physically and emotionally-

The Reptonian 2017/2018 draining ISFA Cup Final, making victory all the more amazing. We were very much seen as the team to beat, having been champions for five of the last six years; our opponents focus on us as their key match. The team, as ever, was led by the impressive Luke Tandy, who deservedly carried off Player of the Tournament. The first week of the Summer Term saw our Derbyshire Final against a team fast becoming our biggest local rival: Ecclesbourne. Goals from Sawyers and Buffin had given us a 2-0 lead, but we should have been further ahead. Despite further chances in the second half, including James Parton hitting the bar, Ecclesbourne kept themselves in the match and scored with ten minutes left to make it closer than it should have been. We closed out the match, though, earning a 2-1 victory and lifting the Derbyshire title for the third consecutive season. In the Staffordshire competition, we fought our way through a semi-final against Stoke Sixth Form College, to set up the final – in June! – against Codsall. The result should just have made it into this edition of The Reptonian, but, owing to printing deadlines, any further comment will have to wait until next year. This season must certainly rank as the most impressive in the history of Football at Repton. We won more matches and kept more clean sheets, than in any previous season. We won the ‘Premier League’ Hudl competition as well as lifting the ESFA Cup for the first time. We retained the ISFA Northern 8s and became only

the second team ever to reach the final of both the ISFA and ESFA Cups in the same season. The magnitude of this feat, given the quality of the football circuit at the moment, is incredibly significant. Beyond this, it has been a pleasure to work with such a fabulous group of players: I have rarely known a group so supportive of each other; it just goes to show how much more can be achieved as a team than a collection of individuals. I hope younger players have seen this and been inspired.

ISFA Northern Eights CHAMPIONS ISFA Sixes QUARTER-FINALISTS HUDL Independent Schools League CHAMPIONS BRADFIELD COLLEGE

W 3-2

Ferrinho, Matt Bowman and Redhead all represented the England ISFA U18 team, the latter two also representing the U17 side. The Player of the Year award went to Tommy Redhead. This was an incredibly difficult award to pin on one particular player, given the level of performance and consistency of so many over the course of the entire season: ten players featuring in the voting must be some sort of record. However, it seems appropriate that Tommy’s contribution has been recognised by his peers as having such an immense impact on the side throughout the course of the year, despite the blow of missing the ‘glory’ moments through injury.

MILLFIELD

D 0-0

CHARTERHOUSE

W 5-0

SHREWSBURY

W 5-0

HAMPTON

W 4-2

ROYAL RUSSELL

W 4-0

BEDE’S

D 3-3

ROUND 1 WEST BRIDGFORD

W 10-1

With a strong core returning next season, a few exciting additions and some excellent younger players coming through, I feel that this season could well be the springboard to something very special. That is certainly the challenge – although the class of 2018-19 will be doing incredibly well to surpass the achievements of this group.

ROUND 2 LADY MANNERS

W 10-0

MMC

U18 ESFA Cup CHAMPIONS

ROUND 3 WATH COMPREHENSIVE

P 32

W 28

F 142

A 25 Friendlies WOLVERHAMPTON GS

W 6-0

STAFFORDSHIRE U16

D 4-4

KIMBOLTON

W 3-0

OXFORD UNIVERSITY DEVELOPMENT XI

W 6-1

U18 Derbyshire Cup CHAMPIONS

ROUND 4 BALBY CARR ACADEMY

W 3-0

ROUND 5 SANDWELL ACADEMY

W 6-0

ROUND 6 BECKET

W 7-2

QUARTER-FINAL SOUTH HUNSLEY

W 5-0

SEMI-FINAL THOMAS TELFORD

W 3-1

FINAL MILLFIELD

W 2-1

QUARTER-FINAL ANTHONY GELL

W 13-0

U18 ISFA Cup RUNNERS-UP

SEMI-FINAL SWANWICK HALL

W 6-0

ROUND 1 QUEEN ETHELBURGA’S COLLEGE

FINAL ECCLESBOURNE

W 2-1

U18 Staffordshire Cup CHAMPIONS

W 4-1

W 2-1 AET

ROUND 2 BROOKE HOUSE COLLEGE

W 3-0

ROUND 3 BEDE’S

W 6-1

ROUND 1 BLYTHE BRIDGE HS

W 7-0

QUARTER-FINAL HARROW

W 2-0

SEMI-FINAL STOKE-ON-TRENT SIXTH FORM COLLEGE

W 3-1

SEMI-FINAL ETON COLLEGE

W 1-0

FINAL CODSALL HS

W 3-0

FINAL BRADFIELD COLLEGE

L 1-3

SPORT

The Reptonian 2017/2018

U16 A XI P 11 W 6 D 1 L 4 F 29 A 23

2ND XI

3RD, 4TH & 5TH XIs

The 2nd XI had a very good season in what was a transitional year, having for the first time brought O-block boys into the side on merit. As is always the case, the challenge to find competitive fixtures often means us facing opposition 1st XIs and, when we did come up short this season, it was often in these games.

The 3rds had a very successful season, with a series of strong performances. The only defeats came against two excellent adult teams (the ORs and Liverpool Ramblers) and a superb Bradfield outfit. The highlight of the season was undoubtedly the away fixture at St Ambrose: trailing 4-1 at half-time, some tactical and personnel changes were made at the interval and the team immediately conceded in the second half to make it 5-1! However, we then rallied – and goals brought momentum, with a winner at the death to make it 6-5 to Repton. Special mentions should go to our ever-present captain, Will Harlow, as well as debutants Parras Joshi, Enver Eren and Tom Hackett (who registered 14 goals in his last 7 matches).

Highlights of the season were undoubtedly the 4-3 victory over Millfield and the comprehensive 4-1 win against Shrewsbury in our first meeting. The Millfield match was particularly pleasing, the team spirit being at its best, every man displaying a tremendous work ethic to win a pulsating game. We took our chances against a talented opposition and, 4-1 up, looked to be cruising, before our earlier exertions took their toll and Millfield edged back into it. We have Romanovskiy’s string of fine saves to thank for the victory in the end. The Shrewsbury match was impressive for different reasons, notably the manner in which we controlled the game: Shrewsbury had one shot on target and our game management, possession and tactical nous was at its best. We were indebted to some fantastic strikes, however; none more so than Hackett, with what must have been goal of the season. Hackett led the line superbly for the majority of the season and, with talented wide options in Edwards, Uffang and Armstrong, we always looked a threat going forward. Singh, as captain, pulled the strings at the tip of a midfield diamond and he (10) and Hackett (12) scored a large proportion of our goals. The midfield was controlled by a combination of Kurmaly, Hobson and Cheng, with a changeable back line ably marshalled by the vocal Hardy. Our games were often free-scoring, competitive and, above all, good fun, with a great bunch of boys who gave their all week-in and week-out.

MRW/RGDR

The 4th XI had a full season, with lots of fixtures to keep them busy. A strong OR team (featuring three former 1st XI players) proved far too strong for us and we were disappointing against Bradfield and Millfield. We had good wins, however, against Wolverhampton Grammar and Kimbolton, but our most pleasing displays were against 1st XIs from smaller schools: we fought back valiantly to draw 2-2 with Ackworth’s 1st XI (who, two years ago, were playing our 2nd XI) and had good wins in new fixtures against Priory and Ockbrook. Despite dominating possession against Shrewsbury, we weren’t able to finish the season with a win against the old enemy, an entertaining game ending 1-1. The team was brilliantly captained by Jakob Wanger, Junior Kinsiona provided devastating pace up-front and Charles Bicknell ran the midfield well. The 5th XI had two games, losing to Ockbrook at home, but then putting in a fine performance to win away at Kimbolton in an entertaining game, with captain Al Stuart-Monteith the hero, with a four-bag haul.

SDG, MWTH & EGMS P 16

F 44

A 46

3RD XI

4TH XI

D 3-3

5TH XI

WOLVERHAMPTON GS

W 4-2

3RD XI CAPTAIN: W. Harlow (P)

MILLFIELD

W 4-3

ST AMBROSE 1ST XI

L 1-6

WELBECK COLLEGE 1ST XI

W 3-1

CHELLASTON 1ST XI

D 4-4

3RD XI SQUAD: F. Byrne (S), O. Campbell (O), G. Chabtini (S), G. Clarke (O), L. Combellack (S), N. Deutsch (P), C. Edwards (P), E. Eren (L), T. Hackett (N), H. Hey (L), K. Hirano (N), P. Joshi (P), W. Needham (N), E. Patton (L), J. Phillips (O), C. Poole (N), G. Rice (N), T. Roberts (P), S. Storer (P), L. Zimmerman (L).

MANCHESTER GS

W 5-1

LIVERPOOL RAMBLERS 1ST XI

L 2-5

SHREWSBURY

W 4-1

ST AMBROSE 1ST XI

W 4-3

KIMBOLTON

W 5-1

SHREWSBURY

L 1-2

THOMAS TELFORD

L 1-3

KING’S, CHESTER

D 1-1

JOHN PORT 1ST XI

L 1-2

BRADFIELD COLLEGE

L 1-8

TRENT COLLEGE

CAPTAIN: G. Singh (N) SQUAD: S. Armstrong (C), M. Atherton (O), M. Barnes-Batty (C), B. Chapman-Lilley (P), P. Cheng (C), A. Edwards (O), J. Hackett (C), L. Hardy (C), W. Hobson (S), C. Inman (O), K. Kurmaly (C), K. Nijjar (C), P. Romanovskiy (O), D. Uffang (P). ALSO PLAYED: F. Byrne (S), G. Chabtini (S), G. Clarke (O), L. Combellack (S), C. Cottis (P), E. Eren (L), G. Fynn (S), G. Kirtland (N), J. Phillips (O), M. Rosser (P), J. Sherry (L).

ALSO PLAYED: T. Allen (P), M. Atherton (O), J. Ford (S), J. Hackett (C), J. Kinsiona (L), G. Kirtland (N), M. Oral (P), P. Romanovskiy (O), M. Rosser (P), J. Sherry (L), W. Wilkinson (P).

U16 Staffordshire Cup SEMI-FINALISTS ROUND 2 JCB ACADEMY

W 9-1

ROUND 3 BLESSED WILLIAM HOWARD

W 2-1

QUARTER-FINAL ST PETER’S ACADEMY

W 3-2

SEMI-FINAL WESTWOOD COLLEGE

L 0-3

U16 Derbyshire Cup QUARTER-FINALISTS

U16 A & B XIs This was the season of the comeback for the U16 As; they bounced back after sluggish starts in several games. The whole season very much fell into the same theme – a slow start, with a poor 3-0 defeat, and a far better second half of the season. Perhaps this can partly be put down to the fact that most of the squad trained with the senior teams and just came together for match days. However, the determination shown by the whole squad was most impressive and they were well led by Hobson’s tenacity in the middle of the park. The highlight of the season was certainly the superb 4-2 victory away at Shrewsbury: finding ourselves 2-0 down after ten minutes, the team never lost heart and a superb second-half performance, which included two goals for Max Rosser, meant that we won comfortably. Although poor early season form put paid to any defence of last year’s Burton & District Schools’ Cup victory, the team performed much better in the Staffordshire Cup, including two more victories after conceding first in round 3 and the quarter final.

ROUND 2 ANTHONY GELL

D 6-6 (W 4-1 ON PENS)

QUARTER-FINAL LEES BROOK

L 0-1

U16 Burton & District Schools’ Cup At its best, the team was a fluent and confident passing side, who moved the ball wide early and utilised Inman’s pace to great effect. Ford and Davies also deserve a mention for their impressive consistency this season. Overall, a good season and I wish them all the best as they go on to represent the senior teams, next year. ‘A mixed bag’ would certainly be an appropriate summary of the U16 B football season. Following a thrilling 3-3 draw against Bradfield in early September, the boys proceeded to suffer heavy defeats against two different Trent sides, whilst defeating Millfield away from home in similarly emphatic fashion. The nature of the season for the U16s meant that it was extremely rare for the same group to play or train together regularly, largely explaining the inconsistency of the season. However, at times there was some skilful football on display and, over the course of the season, the value of hard work and graft shone through. I hope the boys continue to enjoy their football as they move on to Senior Football.

ROUND 2 PAULET

L 1-2

U16 B XI P 5 W 1 D 1 L 3 F 18 A 22 U16 A CAPTAIN: W. Hobson (S) U16 A SQUAD: M. Atherton (O), J. Davies (O), T. Dunn (O), E. Fluck (L), J. Ford (S), G. Fynn (S), C. Inman (O), G. Kirtland (N), K. Kurmaly (C), M. Rosser (P), J. Sherry (L), W. Wilkinson (P), S. Yates (O). U16 B CAPTAIN: S. Yates (O) U16 B SQUAD: M. Archer (P), N. Baker (P), A. Bramall (P), A. Du (P), T. Fan (C), E. Fluck (L), C. Furniss (O), E.J. Hall (S), M. Kennedy (N), M. Lewis (P), R. Mahan (P), J. Murphy (S), F. Nelson (L), M. Newstead (S), T. Owen (N), O. Scutt (L), R. Tabata (N), J. Thompson-Dykes (P), W. Tomalin (N).

ARC/NFP & DJR

4TH XI CAPTAIN: J. Wanger (S) 4TH XI SQUAD: T. Allen (P), W. Balderston (N), C. Bicknell (S), T. Cruickshanks (O), A. Edwards (O), C. Edwards (P), G. Gough (L), M. Johnson (S), J. Kinsiona (L), W. Needham (N), M. Oral (P), C. Royston-Webb (O), A. Smith (O), J. Wathall (N), J. Wathall (N), L. Zimmermann (L). 5TH XI CAPTAIN: A. Stuart-Monteith (S) 5TH XI SQUAD: T. Dewsbury (O), H. Gilmore (S), T. Haigh (L), R. Hanks (S), J. Jarvis (O), O. Jarvis (O), B. Jones (S), R. Kaushal-Bolland (P), C. Lake (O), T. Mueller (N), Y. Otsuka (C), R. Stevenson (S), J. Truelove (L), J. Truelove-Cooke (N), J. Webb (S).

SPORT

U15 A XI

U15 B & C XIs

There is no doubt that the U15 As were a talented group of footballers. This year, they added to that with an increasing intelligence and understanding of the game, as well as a willingness to play more collectively towards a common purpose. Some of them developed from standout individuals to well-respected leaders, who drive others to better things. Others have grown from fringe players, with little opportunity, into integral members of the squad, who will give their all for their teammates. As their playing record suggests, this enabled them to become a real force on the independent schools’ football circuit and I thoroughly enjoyed being able to play my part in this.

The statistics do not do justice to this magnificent U15 B team: three of the defeats (against a strong Kawana HS touring side, who should have played our 2nd XI; against Chellaston U14 A, who had been due to play our U14 As instead; and against Shrewsbury away, when all the Priory and Cross players were missing due to the JHM Final) don’t count. That leaves Millfield away as the season’s only true low-point.

Although many of them will not look back on our exit from the ISFA Cup with any fondness, for me, it proved to be a major catalyst for their development. Having lost in extra-time, despite being in front on three separate occasions, we were all devastated by the result and the way things had played out on the day. But, just over 24 hours later, the team had their hands on the Burton & District Cup, having put in a mature, disciplined and determined performance to take a narrow win against a dangerous Blessed Robert Sutton side. That they then secured a convincing win against the same opposition in another competition the following week spoke volumes about how quickly they learnt and how well they adapted throughout the season. As an U15 player, your primary aim is always to end the season as an ISFA champion, but, while we fell short on this front, it is a close second to have competed in the finals of the Burton & District Cup, the Staffordshire Cup and the ISFA National Futsal Competition. While some members of the squad have played their way into 1st XI contention next year, others will have to bide their time. Regardless of where they find themselves, I hope they continue to work hard, enjoy their football and, ultimately, fulfil their footballing potential.

CL CAPTAIN: J. Williams (S) SQUAD: B. Adshead (P), M. Ainger (N), E. Ashton (C), B. Bond (N), R. Cheung (C), T. Chohan (C), J. Earwicker (S), T. Jervis (S), T. Jones (S), R. Khosla (C), M. Mackrill (C), A. Mair (P), E. Nto (P), H. Solomon (P), T. Whitwell (P). ALSO PLAYED: C. Corominas Tous (M), L. Haigh (S), M. Raine (C), O. Randall (O), G. Tverdokhlebov (P), W. Wade (O).

The Reptonian 2017/2018

This was a team that trained well and played well. Brough and Orpin were rocks at the back. Dunn (my Player of the Season) and Chima were pacy wingers, who scared opposition defences. Jervis and Wade were such threats up front that they got filched for the A team. When players of the quality of Bramfitt, Ingham, Nefedov and Yegenmammedov sometimes couldn’t make the starting line-up – and, crucially, didn’t throw their toys out of the pram because of it – you know you’ve got a great squad. The highlight was undoubtedly the 1-0 win against Shrewsbury (again, proving the earlier defeat shouldn’t count!): skills, graft and passion from every player for every minute. Thanks, boys, for being a pleasure to coach and for representing your school with pride and dignity – and remember always to #SaveCunningham!

P 21 F 95

W 15 A 26

U15 ISFA Cup PRELIM RAWLETT ROUND 1 ST BEDE’S COLLEGE ROUND 2 PRIORY ROUND 3 NEWCASTLE BOYS’

W 8-0 CANCELLED (REPTON W/O) W 4-1 L 3-5 AET

U15 Staffordshire Cup RUNNERS-UP

Friendlies KING’S, CHESTER

L 2-3

BRADFIELD COLLEGE

W 5-0

WOLVERHAMPTON GS

W 8-0

MILLFIELD

W 3-0

STAFFORDSHIRE U15

D 1-1

CHELLASTON ACADEMY

L 1-2

MANCHESTER GS

L 3-4

KIMBOLTON

W 7-0

SHREWSBURY

W 4-3

BURY GS

CANCELLED

U15 Burton & District Cup CHAMPIONS

ROUND 2 BLESSED ROBERT SUTTON

W 5-1

ROUND 1 PAGET HS

W 15-0

QUARTER-FINAL WALTON HS

W 5-0

ROUND 2 PINGLE

W 4-1

SEMI-FINAL BLESSED WILLIAM HOWARD

W 3-1

SEMI-FINAL DE FERRERS ACADEMY

W 8-2

L 0-1

FINAL BLESSED ROBERT SUTTON

W 2-1

FINAL TRENTHAM ACADEMY

Well done to all involved with the U15 Cs, this year: the positive attitude and passion for the game the squad demonstrated in training didn’t translate into the results they deserved, but they did their school and their coach proud.

JMJH & NAF U15 B CAPTAIN: Z. Brough (S)

W 4-0

ROUND 1 RAWLETT

The U15 C team started well, with a narrow, hard-fought 1-2 defeat by Bradfield, but then suffered significant damage to their goal difference over the rest of the season. However, the results against Shrewsbury, Ockbrook and Shrewsbury (again) don’t reflect the dedication shown to keep competing and attempting to play flowing football until the end, when not only up against tough opponents, but also deteriorating conditions in more than one match. Lunn threw himself into countless sliding tackles alongside the more measured (and upright) Bramfitt and Singgih at the back, while Riley, Scutt and Russell showed grit and skill in midfield, with Russell scoring the goal of the season in our final match. The pace of Ingham provided a constant goal-threat and attracted the attention of scouts from the U15 Bs, meaning the Cs subs bench became an increasingly vital resource!

U15 B SQUAD: J. Bramfitt (S), A. Chima (L), F. Dumbill (P), H. Dunn (P), C. Gracie-Ainscough (N), I. Green (L), W. Ingham (P), T. Jervis (S), W. Lunn (C), N. Nefedov (O), W. Orpin (C), O. Randall (O), J. Truelove-Cooke (N), W. Wade (O), A. Yegenmammedov (L). ALSO PLAYED: E. Ashton (C), E. Berlusconi (L), T. Chohan (C), C. Corominas Tous (M), S. Cunningham (O), J. Earwicker (S), M. Mackrill (C), J. Reading (N), D. Russell (S), R. Rustom (L), H. Scutt (N), J. Smith (O).

U14 A XI This side made a poor start and, although there were one or two good performances, struggled to develop the sort of momentum that generates consistent results. We looked rather raw in the first half of term but made some strides towards our objectives for this group in November and December. The pick of our players was Max Raine, who was unplayable at times, notably in the convincing victories against Wolverhampton Grammar and Manchester Grammar, and also showed excellent defensive qualities to help us to a worthy draw against Shrewsbury in the final game. Louis Haigh showed promise in midfield and Fraser James showed commendable versatility as both a goalkeeper and outfield player. Jimmy Brown, Freddy Lloyd and Sami Rashid will have plenty to offer once they find a settled position and several others offered evidence of talent. We registered convincing victories against similar schools, but ought to have done better against local sides such as Ashbourne, vomiting bug notwithstanding. We did well to reach the Burton & District Final and Fin Barker’s equaliser was a good moment for the team. Ultimately, we came up short – but we shall hope to go one better next year. We let in too many goals early on in the season, but improved in that regard. Deploying Fraser James and Max Raine in more defensive positions might be of great benefit to the team next season. In March, a squad of just five – Kayode Akinsanmi, Fraser James, Louis Haigh, Fin Barker and Jimmy Brown – played every minute in a fine run to the semi-finals of the ISFA Futsal competition held in Guilford, losing narrowly to eventual winners Aldenham and taking great credit in the process.

RGE

U15 C SQUAD: E. Berlusconi (L), J. Bramfitt (S), S. Clark (O), S. Cunningham (O), F. Davis (O), H. Gilby (S), I. Green (L), W. Lunn (C), J. Riley (P), D. Russell (S), H. Scutt (N), M. Singgih (N), C. Tarrant (S). ALSO PLAYED: C. Gracie-Ainscough (N), M. Gentzke (O), T. Hawksworth (N), W. Hooper-Smith (O), W. Ingham (P), J. Jacques (P), K. Lee (N), O. Ozer (N), J. Rai (N), O. Randall (O), J. Truelove-Cooke (N), S. Vasylevskyy (C), W. Wade (O).

U15 B XI

U15 C XI

SPORT

The Reptonian 2017/2018

U14 ESFA Cup

CAPTAIN: L. Haigh (S) SQUAD: O. Adams-O’Rorke (S), O. Akinsanmi (C), F. Barker (O), J. Brown (C), P. Derry (S), O. Hall (S), F. James (L), F. Lake (O), F. Lloyd (C), M. Raine (C), S. Rashid (P), R. Rustom (L), I. Savage (L), J. Smith (O), G. Wilkinson (P), R. Wright (C), S. Yardmici (S).

P 17 F 54

W5 D2 A 55

ROUND 2 QEGS, ASHBOURNE

U14 Staffordshire Cup ROUND 2 CLAYTON HALL ACADEMY

L 10

KING’S, CHESTER

L 2-8

JOHN PORT

L 1-2

BRADFIELD COLLEGE

L 0-6

WOLVERHAMPTON GS

W 9-1

PRIORY

L 3-6

STAFFORDSHIRE U14

L 1-4

LADY MANNERS

D 3-3

ALLESTREE WOODLANDS

L 3-5

KIMBOLTON

D 1-1

SHREWSBURY

L 1-2

U14 B & C XIs Several themes of what was to be an inchoate and, ultimately, rather disappointing term made themselves known in our first game of the season, an 11-0 excoriation at the hands of Bradfield – a lack of teamwork, a tendency to get caught on the ball in midfield, and an eggshell-fragility in defence cost us heavily – and would never be fully eradicated. That said, several stars shone all the more brightly for the darkness that enveloped the season: Oliver Heap was the driving, beating heart of the team, timing tackles to perfection, even of the last-ditch variety, then bouncing to his feet, outrageously and at times impishly finding himself space even when under the fiercest pressure, and finding a teammate in space; against Shrewsbury, Zach Wenham produced the most complete U14 B goalkeeping display for four years, stopping the score-line troubling the higher echelons of the times tables – utterly astonishing, and the single stand-out performance of the season. In Leo Wallace and Sam Clarke, we had two forwards of genuine class, whose touches were, for inexpressibly beautiful moments, worth the admission fee on their own. Tom Wilken, too, carried himself with immense physical courage and integrity, and the

L 1-2

U14 Burton & District Schools’ Cup RUNNERS-UP

W 10-2

BURY GS

W 7-4 AET

ROUND 3 KING EDWARD VI, STAFFORD

Friendlies

MANCHESTER GS

L 1-6

ROUND 2 GRANVILLE SPORTS COLLEGE

W 8-0

SEMI-FINAL THOMAS ALLEYNE’S HS

W 2-0

FINAL DE FERRERS ACADEMY

L 1-3

CANCELLED

example he set saw the team grow as the weeks went by, notably putting MGS to the sword in a very rare and utterly thrilling victory – albeit one compromised, as the sun set on the game, by some defending that would have made Wayne Hatswell himself blanch. Sunshine and showers, and often four seasons in a 20-minute passage of play.

U14 B CAPTAIN: C. Truscott (O) U14 B SQUAD: O. Adams O’Rorke (S), O. Akinsanmi (C), S. Clarke (L), A. Coleston-Shields (S), M. Ewart-White (N), M. Galley (P), H. Gillett (S), J. Gould (N), O. Heap (N), T. Ikhsan (S), F. Lake (O), H. Picard (N), J. Reading (N), R. Rustom (L), L. Wallace (P), Z. Wenham (S), T. Wilken (N). ALSO PLAYED: J. Bertolino (L), B. Cann (O), P. Derry (S), O. Hall (S), J. Langrick (C), S. Rashid (P), J. Smith (O), S. Yardimci (S), D. Yeats Brown (O).

Although the C team regularly changed, to give a larger number of pupils the opportunity to represent the School, the main reasons behind this difficult season were that the skills of controlling the ball required further development and we played teams with physically larger boys. The 10-1 defeat at Bradfield was a difficult start, but, as the season progressed, we did play better football and the 4-2 loss at Shrewsbury was on a heavy pitch, when a draw would have been a fairer reflection of the match. Irsan, Ozer, Kinsiona and Wenham represented the team regularly and should be looking to progress further next season.

U14 C SQUAD: F. Bashforth-Bell (O), J. Bertolino (L), C. Bingham (P), B. Cann (O), F. Cann (O), N. Coulborn (S), G. Edwards (L), N. Gorina Sotelo (S), A. Holt (N), T. Ikshan (S), W. Ingham (C), D. Irsan (C), J. Kinsiona (L), R. Knowles (S), O. Ozer (N), H. Picard (N), J. Reading (N), W. Wilcher (N), A. Williams (O), D. Yeats Brown (O). ALSO PLAYED: I. Akinsanmi (C), T. Brown (C), A. Cartmail (C), M. Fulford (O), M. Galley (P), C. Redfern (L), T. Thandi (P), C. Wagg (S), L. Wallace (P), Z. Wenham (S), H. Wilson (P).

CSD & IS

U14 B XI

U14 C XI

HOCKEY GIRLS’ 1ST XI With poor weather causing a postponement of the National Finals, this was probably the longest school hockey season on record. It began with difficult fixtures against Belper and Loughborough University, but our positive performances against older opponents gave optimism for what was ahead. We struck the post five times in a goalless draw with Millfield in September, but, after failing to score in a 1st XI game for the first time in more than ten years, this group of girls never looked back. The experienced forward line of Alice Bennett, Georgie Brownhill and Maddy Wray were fed well from an action-packed midfield of Hannah Davey, Emilia Kaczmarczyk and Esme Gibson; the whole team showed ruthlessness very rare in school hockey: Nottingham Trent University suffered a large defeat, before a hard-earned victory was ground out at Dean Close.

very well behind an ever-improving back line: Lloyd, Squires, Stone and Hibell’s many and varied strengths blended together very well. Although there was disappointment that the re-arranged Nationals were not played at Lee Valley (thanks to the ‘Beast from the East’), having them in Nottingham was convenient and familiar. We began scrappily against Dean Close, but, after Wray had opened the scoring, a reversestick thunderbolt from Kaczmarczyk set the girls on their way to a comprehensive victory. The crucial pool match against Framlingham was tactical and we needed to be clinical. Brownhill took our first chance in the game and, when the result was in the balance, Davey doubled the lead from a penalty corner. The final pool game against St Peters, York, saw the squad used to great effect, allowing us to be in the best physical

shape for the Final against Cranleigh, as we routinely recorded a 5-0 win. Cranleigh had defeated many of our girls in the U16 Final two years earlier, but this year’s Final was a very different game. Unfortunate not to be ahead at half-time, with every one of the girls in outstanding form, they continued to play excellent hockey in the second half. A Nelson clearance launched the attack from which Brownhill and Bennett earned the decisive penalty corner move – and a slick move involving Kaczmarczyk was smashed home by Davey to win the National Title. Cranleigh’s late surge was thwarted by a great Nelson save, Scutt and Squires nullifying Cranleigh’s key player and our short corner defensive team standing firm in the dying seconds. This performance summed up this 1st XI: they showed what great passing hockey they play, but also showed a togetherness and resilience as they held on to the victory under great pressure.

An invitation to Rugby School’s 450th Anniversary Tournament allowed the 1st XI to show superiority over local schools that they reinforced soon after, at the same venue, in the Midlands Finals. It was during this time that the team made great tactical strides, influenced by Fenella Scutt and her decision-making, which enabled us to qualify for the National Finals in comprehensive fashion. The January Tour to Barcelona was fantastic preparation for the Nationals: four victories over Spanish and Dutch club sides, including a Final win over the hosts, RC Polo, stretched the girls but gave them confidence for the upcoming Finals. Sharing GK duties, Rebecca Nelson and Katherine Carr were busier than they often were in school fixtures and both played

SPORT

The Reptonian 2017/2018

Rugby School 450th Anniversary Festival Tournament CHAMPIONS

P 36 W 34 D 1 F 188 A 20 BELPER HC

W 6-1

GROUP 1 OUNDLE

W 5-0

LOUGHBOROUGH UNIVERSITY 1ST XI

L 2-3

GROUP 2 CHELTENHAM

W 4-0

GROUP 3 TUDOR HALL

W 5-0

NOTTS TRENT UNIVERSITY 1ST XI

W 12-0

SEMI-FINAL CLIFTON COLLEGE

W 5-0

DEAN CLOSE

W 5-2

FINAL RUGBY

RUGBY

W 7-0

W 3-0

OUNDLE

W 4-0

DEAN CLOSE

W 7-0

OAKHAM

W 5-0

This Girls’ 1st XI played some of the best hockey of teams that I have coached and regularly scored outstanding team goals throughout the season, often bringing positive comments from those who watched. Our U6 players have been a fine group of role-models, none more so than Hannah Davey, whose penalty corner strike in the National Final was a fitting way for her to end an excellent season as Captain. I wish the U6 well in their hockey futures and thank them for their drive, commitment and approach throughout the season. Thanks, also, to the staff that have supported this 1st XI throughout their time at school, to the parents for their continued support, and to the girls themselves for making this such an enjoyable season for all involved.

UPPINGHAM

W 10-0

MLJ

MOP HC (NETHERLANDS)

W 4-0

PEDRALBES HC (BARCELONA)

W 12-0

W 3-0

WILLEM COLLEGE (NETHERLANDS)

W 4-3

BROMSGROVE

W 10-0

REAL CLUB DE POLO (BARCELONA)

W 2-0

SOLIHULL

W 12-0

LICHFIELD HC LADIES’ 1ST XI

W 9-0

BELPER LADIES’ 1ST XI

W 4-1

BIRMINGHAM UNIVERSITY 2ND XI

W 3-2

MILLFIELD

County Finals CHAMPIONS FINAL TRENT COLLEGE

W 7-3

Midlands Zone Round GROUP WINNERS SHREWSBURY

Midlands Finals CHAMPIONS GROUP 1 OAKHAM

W 3-1

GROUP 2 MALVERN COLLEGE

W 4-0

GROUP 3 DENSTONE COLLEGE

W 2-0

SEMI-FINAL RUGBY

W 2-0

FINAL OAKHAM

W 4-0

National Finals CHAMPIONS

TRENT COLLEGE

GROUP 1 DEAN CLOSE

W 4-0

GROUP 2 FRAMLINGHAM COLLEGE

W 3-1

GROUP 3 ST PETER’S, YORK

W 5-0

FINAL CRANLEIGH

W 1-0

W 12-3 D 0-0

CAPTAIN: H. Davey (F) SQUAD: A. Bennett (G), B. Bridge (M), A. Brinkman (G), G. Brownhill (M), K. Carr (F), I. Clark (F), E. Gibson (F), L. Gould (M), J. Hibell (M), E. Kaczmarczyk (M), T. Lloyd (G), R. Nelson (M), E. Peters (A), F. Scutt (G), K. Squires (G), A. Stone (G), M. Wray (G). ALSO PLAYED: C. Archer (M), G. Brown (M), S. Butler (F), R. Gale (M), I. Hatton (G), C. Jowett (F), M. Klymowec (G), C. Swain (M), M. Swain (M).

2ND XI Unfortunately, like last year, Stowe’s 1st XI denied another impressive Repton 2nd XI an unbeaten season, but this should not detract from what was an excellent term’s work. Last year’s prolific goal-scoring record of 101 goals was always going to be hard to match, but I could not have been happier with the endeavours of this team and I am quietly optimistic about the 2018 season already! Lea led by example brilliantly throughout the term and the ‘old guard’ from last year – in particular Brinkman, Corner, Gale and Renshaw – provided us with the stability needed to enjoy such a successful season. Nieper eye-catchingly improved the most as the term went on, and I think her influence will be instrumental to any success we might enjoy next season. Clarkey led the line superbly and, if MLJ doesn’t pinch Gould for the 1sts, then our ‘spine’ looks solid once again in September and beyond! The other regular ‘new’ girls into the team – Earp, Martin, Peters and Sharratt – also made excellent starts to their senior Repton careers and I look forward to helping them develop even more after the summer break. Oddly, we played our best hockey in the 3-0 win over Uppingham, in a match that began bizarrely, as the previous game needed 14 shuffles to decide the result, during a Biblical storm, while we waited huddled in the dugout. This seemed to force the girls to move better off the ball, though and, despite the weather, this was the most enjoyable one to watch, as no player hung on to the ball for long and the passing was crisp and accurate. In the last three years, the 2nds have achieved some impressive stats – P 35, W 29, D 2, L 4, GF 214, GA 27 – and this includes fixtures against 12 opposition schools’ 1st teams. On paper, next year’s team looks particularly strong and, with ever-more challenging games ahead, I am already excited for the term ahead in order to improve these numbers further.

CAPTAIN: M. Lea (M) SQUAD: B. Bridge (M), A. Brinkman (G), K. Carr (F), I. Clarke (F), A. Corner (G), S. Earp (A), R. Gale (M), L. Gould (M), M. Klymowec (G), H. Lipton (G), V. Mair (F), C. Martin (M), R. Nelson (M), C. Newham (F), I. Nieper (F), E. Peters (A), G. Renshaw (M), I. Sharratt (M), G. Young (F).

P 9 W 6 D 2 L 1 F 34 A 7 BELPER HC

W 5-1

DENSTONE COLLEGE 1ST XI

D 1-1

DEAN CLOSE

W 7-0

RUGBY OUNDLE

D 1-1 (W 2-1 ON PENS) W 4-1

MILLFIELD

CANCELLED

That said, the final word must go to the ‘Chuckle Sisters’, who infuriated at times, but, without whom, the term would not have been as ‘enjoyable’ as it was!

OAKHAM

W 5-1

LOUGHBOROUGH HS 1ST XI

W 8-0

UPPINGHAM

W 3-0

WGO

STOWE 1ST XI

L 0-2

SPORT

The Reptonian 2017/2018

3RD & 4TH XIs

U16 A XI

As ever, the season was an enjoyable one for the 3rd XI. With a huge number of girls representing the school at this level and the inconsistency of the team week in and week out due to varying commitments, the girls should be extremely proud of what they achieved this season.

In a season that started in late August and concluded in the glorious late afternoon sunshine of 4th May, it is unsurprising that it is difficult to summarise how that lengthy period came down to two days at Lee Valley.

Megan Klymowec, Serena Cole and Katherine Carr all played dynamically in goal, taking full advantage of the extra sessions on offer; the team was very lucky to have the support of such competent goalkeepers. The defence came on in leaps and bounds to move the ball around the back with ease and wrongfoot opponents, including a well-drilled Belper HC side, as well as Trent and Denstone. They exhibited patience and a good deal of calmness in situations, despite being under pressure at times. The midfield players were consistent in their level of dedication, as well as their determination in match-play. They provided a vital pivoting point and I hope the experience that they gained this year has been invaluable. Emilie Buckland, Sophie Sweeting, Hannah Lipton and Beth McClarron were the driving-force up-front and learned just how valuable their position is to moving the opposition out wide and therefore limiting the attacking play of the opposition. All matches were well-fought and played with a good level of enthusiasm. It was disappointing to lose to Rugby, as the Repton girls had the majority of possession during the match and should have converted more of their chances. Saying this, the girls compete in a tough Independent Schools’ Hockey League and often play against 2nd XI teams, so they should be hugely proud of their efforts. I wish all the U6 leavers luck with whatever the future holds, and I hope hockey continues to feature in their lives post-Repton. The 4th XI this season was a good team, made up mainly of L6 girls. There were some excellent team and individual performances over the term. The match against Rugby was exciting, with the girls suffering their only defeat in the final seconds of play. The most memorable match was against Uppingham as, following a 3-3 score-line at the end of normal play, a penalty shuffle contest was to decide the winner. In freezing rain and snow, both teams played 14 penalties each, with Repton winning these 6-5. All players showed great determination on the pitch and offered flexibility to be able to switch roles whenever necessary. Communication between players improved over the course of the term, which resulted in the team working well together. The girls always tried to make the most of their goal-scoring opportunities and play to each other’s strengths across the pitch. Good luck to the U6 as they continue their hockey beyond Repton, and we look forward to having the experience of the L6 next year.

GKR & SMQN/CEG

3RD XI SQUAD: S. Ainger (M), E. Benson (A), E. Buckland (M), K. Carr (F), S. Cole (F), A. Davies (G), S. Earp (A), A. Earwicker (A), G. English (F), M. Griffiths (M), S. Hudson (M), I. Hurren (A), M. Klymowec (G), H. Lipton (G), V. Mair (F), B. McClarron (G), M. Needler (M), C. Newham (F), E. Smith (F), O. Stocks (G), S. Sweeting (F), C. Swinbank (M), K. Waldock (A), G. Young (F).

November brought both the Midlands Zone Round and Midlands Finals. The first was safely negotiated, as was the second – with just one bad twenty-minute spell that saw us a lose a group game. It was a long wait until the National Finals in March – then even longer when they were frozen off as snow hit the country. On May 3rd, we finally reached the season finale. We were pretty accurate in our prediction about how the two days were going to go: we should win the first two group games and it was likely that St George’s would too, to set up a group play-off to face Wellington in the final. There was a bit more drama to it than that, though: two wins on Day One was a good start, but we were behind on goal difference and we had to beat St George’s to make the final. Four minutes from time, Charly Archer hit a net-buster to take us there! That was her 33rd goal of the season in 23 games – more than twice the tally of anybody else. I thought our second-half performance was excellent, against the best team we had played all year.

3RD XI

4TH XI

County Finals CHAMPIONS TRENT COLLEGE

Against Wellington in the Final, no one would know we had played just 90 minutes before, compared to their four-hour break. Both teams had chances in the first half and, when Wellington scored after half-time, a break from Archer saw a powerful ball across goal deflected in by Mae Fitzgerald for the equaliser. Wellington hit the post, but only penalties could separate the best two teams in the country. Whilst we are now classed as Runners-up, what we proved here was that no opposition was better than us over a 25-minute each-way game and we went to the National Finals and were unbeaten. What I saw from this team was something that was beyond technical and tactical: they bought into a culture of hard work, where the end result and team were more important than their own performance. They made sure they did the job themselves and didn’t leave it to someone else. One of the most satisfying points to reflect on is that they always played in a way that showed us that, to them, the badge on the front of the shirt was more important than the name on the back.

IMP

4TH XI SQUAD: C. Abell (A), E. Andrew (M), M. Bridge (M), S. Cole (F), T. Coupland-Smith (M), L. Drury (M), Y. Dugdale (M), G. Gordon (A), G. Hakney (A), E. Hughes (A), M. Klymowec (G), M. Needler (M), E. Roberts (M), I. Swales (A), C. Swinbank (M), K. Waldock (A), S. Wilson (F).

The Michaelmas Term was very well negotiated, with a full set of wins in our school fixtures, with 16 different players being used, all putting in some very pleasing performances. Whilst the side changed a little for the national competitions, week-to-week results and performances were consistently impressive. Other teams challenged us, but wins away at Oundle, Oakham and a freezing Stowe were very good team efforts.

W 5-1

Midlands Zone Round GROUP WINNERS SHREWSBURY

W 8-0

BROMSGROVE

W 3-0

UPPINGHAM

W 4-1

Midlands Finals CHAMPIONS

P 24

W 22

F 106

A 18

TRENT COLLEGE

W 5-0

SHREWSBURY 1ST XI

W 4-3

ECCLESBOURNE

GROUP 1 OAKHAM

W 2-0

GROUP 2 RGS, WORCESTER

L 1-2

GROUP 3 RUGBY

W 6-0

SEMI-FINAL BROMSGROVE

W 4-0

FINAL TRENT COLLEGE

W 3-0

National Finals RUNNERS-UP GROUP 1 CLIFTON COLLEGE

W 3-1

W 15-0

GROUP 2 WAKEFIELD GHS

W 1-0

DEAN CLOSE

W 9-0

GROUP 3 ST GEORGE’S COLLEGE

W 2-1

OUNDLE

W 6-0

FINAL WELLINGTON COLLEGE

RUGBY

W 1-0

MILLFIELD

CANCELLED

OAKHAM

W 3-0

UPPINGHAM

W 4-3

STOWE

W 3-1

RGS, WORCESTER

W 7-3

MALVERN COLLEGE 1ST XI

W 6-1

D 1-1 (L 1-3 ON PENS)

CAPTAIN: G. Brown (M) SQUAD: A. Adams-O’Rorke (A), C. Archer (M), F. Brown (M), E. Buffin (M), F. Cole (F), S. Corner (G), M. Dytham (M), M. Fitzgerald (M), I. Hatton (G), C. Jowett (F), E. Kilby (F), S. Ktori (A), J. Lloyd (G), G. Pope (G), M. Swain (M). ADDITIONAL PLAYERS FOR NATIONALS: E. Barlow (G), M. Bowman (M), S. Butler (F), I. Mansfield (M).

SPORT

The Reptonian 2017/2018

P 22 W 20 F 122 A 8

U16 B XI

U14 A XI

The U16 B squad was a real mixture of the previous year’s B and C teams, but all players were super-keen to play and represent the School.

This year’s U14 As were talented, but, after early-season comfortable victories over Trent and Denstone, an away trip to Dean Close brought them back down to earth: the narrow defeat helped to iron out some issues and made them even more focused in training, which, in turn, corresponded with an impressive set of performances during the remainder of the Michaelmas Term.

With our first match and first win, some were perhaps lulled into a false sense of security and our second match, against Shrewsbury’s 2nd XI, soon highlighted our areas of weakness. Throughout the term, we worked on being positive on the ball and moving it with confidence down the pitch. We have several highly-skilful players that can carry the ball at speed and deliver sound passes into the circle, but our execution in front of goal was often lacking, which led to tight matches, such as the thrilling Uppingham game. Fortunately for us, having practised penalty shuffles on a number of occasions, we stepped up confidently and our goalkeeper, Sade Akinsanmi, was outstanding each time. It was a thoroughly well-deserved win and set the tone for the end of season high – winning our last two matches. Well done girls!

LP P7 W3 D0 F 11 A 19

CAPTAIN: H. English (F) SQUAD: F. Akinsanmi (G), E. Bond (F), F. Brown (M), E. Cann (A), L. Cremer (F), P. Dallimore (G), A. Harcus (A), D. Isakova (G), C. Luke (F), J. Merriman (A), C. Morris (A), F. Schneck (G), E. Smith (F), L. Waldock (A), G. White (F). ALSO PLAYED: A. Adams-O’Rorke (A), J. Archer-Reed (F).

U15 A, B & C XIs It was an excellent term for the U15 A girls, who went through the season unbeaten: a great achievement that reflects the effort and hard work they put into every training session. Under Scout Butler’s leadership, the team was well-organised and hard to break down. Going forward, Sophie Haigh, Ellie Barlow and Donata Gocke, to name a few, attacked teams with a deadly combination of pace and skill that proved too much for other teams to handle. With Molly Bowman, Izzy Mansfield and Charlotte Steele at the back, they were a real force to be reckoned with. During training sessions, they worked hard and so matches remained competitive; a willing, able and pleasant team, they were always a pleasure to coach. I look forward to tracking their progress as they continue their hockey adventure at Repton.

Scoring an average of more than ten goals a game against Oakham, Rugby, Oundle and Uppingham highlighted what the girls were capable of and this was form they took into the Midlands Finals. Qualifying for the National Finals is no mean feat, but to do it without conceding a goal at the Midlands was very impressive indeed. After the postponement of the original Finals, due to poor weather, our girls prepared well for the early-May Nationals, balancing their other sporting and academic commitments admirably. The National Finals at Lee Valley Olympic Park began well: we raced into a two-goal lead against Hill House, thanks to strikes from Erin Polak and Claudia Swain. However, the second half saw us struggle against an athletic and combative side and, once Hill House had pulled one back, we were grateful for a remarkable late save from Izzi Evans to earn the victory. Cranleigh had their game-plan worked out and restricted the amount of ball that our midfield was getting. This caused some frustration amongst the girls and our performance lacked any kind of fluidity. Super-sub Charlotte Dashwood energised the forward line in the second half and, although we created chances, our best effort was a late penalty that we wasted, meaning that we now needed other results to go our way.

This was just the third time in Repton’s history that we have won the U14 National Title and the girls should be proud of their amazing and special victory: it was a real privilege to accompany this team to the National Finals and to witness how much they had developed during the course of the season. Everyone who has coached, supported and been part of this success should be very proud.

MLJ

Midlands Zone Round GROUP WINNERS

TRENT COLLEGE

W 7-0

MINSTER

W 10-0

DENSTONE COLLEGE

W 7-0

WELLINGBOROUGH

W 8-0

DEAN CLOSE

L 1-2

OAKHAM

W 7-1

KING’S HS, WARWICK U15A

W 5-1

Midlands Finals CHAMPIONS

OUNDLE

W 8-1

GROUP 1 PRINCETHORPE COLLEGE

W 4-0

QUEEN ETHELBURGA’S COLLEGE U16A

CANCELLED

GROUP 2 RGS, WORCESTER

W 1-0

OAKHAM

W 9-0

GROUP 3 OUNDLE

W 1-0

RUGBY

W 12-0

SEMI-FINAL MALVERN COLLEGE

W 4-0

FINAL OUNDLE

W 1-0

HYMERS COLLEGE U15A

CAPTAIN: C. Swain (M)

UPPINGHAM

SQUAD: I. Archer (M), A. Bailey (A), B. Brough (M), M. Brown (M), C. Dashwood (A), E. Derry (F), A. Edwards (A), I. Evans (M), M. Illingworth (M), E. Matcham (A), M. Miers (A), E. Polak (G), E. Rush (M), O. Singer (G), E. Thompstone (M).

STOWE RGS, WORCESTER

CANCELLED W 13-0 CANCELLED W 12-0

National Finals CHAMPIONS GROUP 1 HILL HOUSE

W 2-1

GROUP 2 CRANLEIGH

L 0-1

County Finals CHAMPIONS

GROUP 3 SEVENOAKS

W 3-0

TRENT COLLEGE

FINAL ST GEORGE’S COLLEGE

W 2-1

W 5-0

Entering our final Pool Match, we knew that a two-goal victory over Sevenoaks would see us make the National Final and, under this pressure, the girls produced the performance of the season. Bronte Brough marshalled the back line and, after a fine save from Evans, Swain opened the scoring with a fine solo goal, collecting the ball on the halfway line and, after outrunning a few opponents, converting with a fine diving finish. If this first goal was excellent, the second was nothing short of outstanding: Swain received the ball in her defensive circle, before running 85 yards to convert the crucial goal, adding another after an unselfish lay-off from Dashwood for good measure! Whilst Claudia’s hat-trick earned the plaudits, this was an outstanding team performance that all the girls matched again in the Final. With the excellent Liv Singer side-lined for the Final through injury, Emily Thompstone and Alicia Bailey played new roles superbly and another fine team performance was rounded off by Swain, who scored both goals in a fantastic day.

This season saw the U15 Cs continue to develop the skills and team cohesion that they built up as U14s. Kahina Chaibi ably captained the team, assisted by vicecaptain and excellent goalkeeper Sophie Lewis. The season began with some heavy defeats while the team figured out their individual strengths and weaknesses on the pitch. Excellent ball skills and good passing was a key strength this season and it was lovely to see Lucy Richards score one of the season’s only goals, after knocking on the door in most matches! The season was filled with laughter, commitment and genuine good humour – and desire to improve from the girls. It was a pleasure to coach them and there is much potential to develop the goal-scoring success that we began to see at the end of the season.

U15 A CAPTAIN: S. Butler (F)

JAS & KPMS

U15 C CAPTAIN: K. Chaibi (G)

U15 A

U15 B

U15 C

U15 A SQUAD: E. Barlow (G), M. Bowman (M), H. Cook (A), E. Frontzkowski (F), D. Gocke (A), S. Haigh (M), Z. Knowles (F), E. Lownds (A), I. Mansfield (M), E. Martin (M), A. Naylor (M), K. Pearce (A), C. Steele (A), Z. Wedgwood (A). U15 B SQUAD: E. Balderston (M), F. Buckley (A), O. Ellis (G), K. Gabriel (G), C. Gibson (G), M. Gilmore (M), P. Hix (G), P. Kellock (G), K. Knight (M), J. Milligan-Manby (F), K. Newbould (A), H. Nieper (F), P. Plant (M), E. Scutt (M), A. Tertychnaya (G), L. Williamson (F). ALSO PLAYED: L. Cope (F), A. Costello (M), T. Johnson (M), A. Naylor (M).

U15 C SQUAD: O. Breen (A), L. Cope (F), E. Dick (A), T. Johnson (M), E. Kildare (F), A. Leverton (A), S. Lewis (A), E. Mansfield (G), L. Richards (A), I. Roberts (F), I. Turton (A), L. Williamson (F), K. Yates (G).

SPORT

The Reptonian 2017/2018

U14 B & C XIs The U14 B girls did extremely well, managing all their commitments at the start of their Repton School career. More often than not, they would run down to the hockey pitches straight after an hour of netball, or from hockey straight on to music, swimming or D&T activities. Their hard efforts in training, with the help of expert coach, Aaron Hibell (OR), saw a flurry of early wins against Trent, Denstone and Rugby, with excellent attitude and work ethic. Across the matches came plenty of goals from Caitlin Grainger-Spivey and Jiina Sashida. Alannah Edwards defended our goal well to keep our results not only wins, but clean sheets also! Unfortunately, our fine form did come to an end against some trickier opposition towards the end of the season. However, the team did not stop improving and showed some impressive game-play as a result of their hard work. The most improved player of the season went to Sophia Dex. The U14 C girls showed some extraordinary resilience throughout the term, against some very strong teams. They improved significantly, especially those who had never played before. Despite the weather and lack of substitutes due to such a small squad, the girls showed grit and determination right to the end. Their energy never faltered and they enjoyed themselves throughout. They should all be very proud of themselves.

SDAS & SJP U14 B CAPTAIN: A. Edwards (A) U14 B SQUAD: E. Anastasiou (M), E. Brough (A), C. Bunting (G), H. Coombs (A), E. Coull (F), S. Dex (G), C. Grainger-Spivey (A), E. Matcham (A), S. Ott (F), C. Owen-Jones (A), M. Purewal (G), A. Robinson (G), J. Sashida (F), A. Wall (F). U14 C CAPTAIN: D. Darby (G) U14 C SQUAD: A. Allen (M), A. Bottomley (F), A. Churchill (M), L. Cooper-Ewin (A), H. Davis (A), D. Manasir (F), D. Mershenova (G), R. Pannu (G), F. Roberts (F), E. Smith (F), S. Sunner (M), A. Webb (M), D. Yaremenko (A).

U14 B

U14 C

HOCKEY BOYS’ 1ST XI A growing Michaelmas Term Development Programme gave in excess of thirty boys the chance to stake a claim for a 1st XI place before attentions switched to the Indoor season in December. In a bizarre sequence of events, triggered by the Midlands Indoor Finals being cancelled due to snow, the MRHA Committee made a hasty decision to nominate Repton and Oakham to compete in the National Finals without a game being played. A lack of time, suitable facilities and varied school availability meant that re-arranging was difficult, but for us to be awarded a place in the National Finals due to last year’s results was a decision understandably not welcomed by other schools. Whilst we were pleased to be competing at the National Indoor Finals at Whitgift School, despite there being no Midlands Finals, the lack of match-practice was probably part of our downfall. Beginning the tournament with a loss to Sir William Borlase had us on the back foot – a position from which we failed to recover in what was a disappointing Indoor campaign. The Outdoor season began with an excellent tour to Barcelona. Victories over Pedrables, Calday Grange and Catalonia U16s saw us reach the Final against the hosts, RC Polo. With Captain Tom Evans injured in the warm-up, RC Polo put us under pressure throughout and deserved their two-goal victory, which sharpened the boys up for the season ahead. Abbotsholme were swept aside in our first National Cup game, Angus Bennett netting a hat-trick of penalty corners, before a stern test at Trent. Despite playing well during the first half, we failed

to convert and found ourselves behind against the run of play. With time running out, Edd Patton scored with an instinctive finish, before Bennett converted another set-piece, with moments remaining, to suggest that this 1st XI had the character required to be successful this season. Despite the pleasing manner of our fightback against Trent, our fixtures with Oakham and Uppingham highlighted how much work there was left to do as a squad. Poor discipline had us play large parts of these fixtures with players in the sin-bin and, although there were glimpses of good play, we were going to have to be much more consistent if we were to challenge for the top honour this season. The boys returned from Half-Term with a greater focus, comfortably sweeping aside Uppingham and Oundle either side of a hard-fought Cup victory over Warwick. It was against Oundle that Finley Newton scored the highest number of goals in a 1st XI game for some time, scoring his seventh with a spectacular reverse-stick strike in the final moments. Dean Close tested our defence as much as anyone this season and, on a freezing cold day in Cheltenham, they found Jeremy Nelson in outstanding form to help earn us a victory – when the score-line could have been very different. With the regular season over, the Cup draw had us travel to the South Coast to play Canford. The assembled crowd were rather vocal and we struggled against a physical side, no more so than in the first ten minutes, when we had to withstand great pressure before our first attack brought a goal. Following some great pressing from Jacob Smith and Elliot Killington, Newton slotted past the Canford GK to give us

the lead. Patton doubled the lead fairly fortuitously in the second half, before our opponents scored a late consolation goal to make the last few minutes nervous ones. Matthew Bellin had his best game of the season for us and Arnav Rai was named Players’ Man of The Match for his composure and consistency under pressure.

would like to congratulate the boys on their fantastic achievement and to thank all those that have supported us this season. Special mention must go to Tom Evans, who, despite being 1st XI Captain this year, was ineligible to play in the National Competition and who was a great support throughout the season.

This 1st XI has probably been the most inconsistent of the last decade, but what they were capable of, like most teenage boys, was just doing enough to get by and this had certainly been the case before we played Dean Close again in the National Semi-final at Lee Valley. From the first whistle, however, we saw this group at their very best: our midfield of Killington, Tarrant, Brown, Wossidlo and Bellin totally dominated their opponents and were a key factor in us being five goals ahead at half-time. Stuart Kentwell’s outstanding pass for Bellin to score the opening goal at the end of a great move was the beginning of a fantastic two days in London.

MLJ

We showed a much greater discipline in the Final than we did against Oakham earlier in the season and this was a major factor in the win. Three quick goals from Newton, Kentwell and Bennett, scored in five minutes before half-time, turned the game while Oakham’s Captain was in the sin-bin. Although Oakham did score a consolation, a strong run from Kentwell was finished off by Newton to seal our third National Title in four years.

CAPTAIN: T. Evans (C) SQUAD: M. Bellin (P), A. Bennett (P), O. Brierley (C), L. Brown (N), A. Dashwood (L), J. Hackett (C), S. Kentwell (N), E. Killington (S), J. Nelson (L), F. Newton (C), E. Patton (L), A. Rai (P), G. Rice (N), R. Sillery (S), J. Smith (O), M. Tarrant (S), J. Wossidlo (C).

P 11 F 61

W 11 A9

EHB National U18 Cup CHAMPIONS W 2-1

ROUND 1 BYE

OAKHAM

W 4-1

ROUND 2 ABBOTSHOLME

W 12-1

UPPINGHAM

W 5-0

ROUND 3 UPPINGHAM

W 7-2

ROUND 4 WARWICK

W 4-1

QUARTER-FINAL CANFORD

W 2-1

TRENT COLLEGE

RUGBY

CANCELLED

OUNDLE

W 13-0

SEMI-FINAL DEAN CLOSE

W 6-1

DEAN CLOSE

W 2-0

FINAL OAKHAM

W 4-1

I have made no secret that I have not found this 1st XI easy to coach, but I am pleased that, when the chips were down, they pulled together, supported each other and produced the outstanding hockey that they were capable of in London. I

SPORT

The Reptonian 2017/2018

2ND XI Like the girls in Michaelmas, this strong Repton 2nd XI was cruelly denied an unbeaten season in the final game of the term. The Dean Close game was particularly frustrating, as we dominated territory and possession throughout and even their coach conceded at the end that they had been incredibly fortunate to win: 1-1, with 10 minutes to go, their keeper made two excellent saves from point-blank range, only for them to break, score and then hang on desperately at the end for the win. In fact, the best team we played against all term was Oakham, who were 3-0 up after 15 minutes! Their intensity and commitment was making the difference and seemed to spur the lads into action, who then proceeded to score 6 unanswered goals before a consolation at the end for the opposition. Greenbank led by example throughout the term and marshalled his team from the back with great effectiveness. Alongside him, Byrne was also excellent, especially in the game against Oakham, where he made some crucially important interventions. Also outstanding was Waldock, whose impressive goal-scoring record for Repton teams continued to the very end of his school career. His tally of 11 goals for the season, most from midfield, was impressive and his absence from the final game meant that we missed his creativity and finishing prowess – which could have made the difference. Clarke was as committed and energetic as ever up front and he caused defences all sorts of problems with his pace and skill, while Lewis rounded off his time as a solid and secure Repton hockey player, including his first ever goal outdoors against Trent!

3RD XI With a fair amount of movement between the 2nd and 3rd teams, we found it difficult to develop consistent patterns of play and this was not helped by the loss of three fixtures to snow and M40 traffic. We were pleased, however, to bounce back from a disappointing defeat to Bromsgrove 2nd XI in the first game, despite two late goals from Samuel Storer, with a fine 3-0 win over Oakham. We were inspired in that game by an incident in which William Balderston was struck by the ball and played with focus and commitment thereafter, scoring fine goals through Tom Hackett (2) and Harry Hey without reply. The games against Uppingham and Oundle were better than the score-lines might suggest, with fine goalkeeping from Tom Roberts as much as poor finishing keeping the scoring low. Our final game at Dean Close, completed just before the snow returned, ended in a disappointing defeat.

RGE

SQUAD: W. Balderston (N), T. Cruickshanks (O), S. Donegan (N), C. Edwards (P), H. Gilmore (S), G. Gough (L), A. Greenwood (O), T. Hackett (N), T. Haigh (L), H. Hey (L), B. Jones (S), R. Kaushal-Bolland (P),T. Roberts (P), S. Storer (P), J. Truelove (L), J. Truelove-Cooke (N), J. Wanger (S).

I would like to thank all the players for their efforts over the course of the Lent Term: Greenwood was often asked to fill in where there were injuries or illness; Needham and Webb were tireless in their efforts; and it was great to see Watson develop and influence games more and more as the term went on – his precise finish against Uppingham will be an abiding memory. I hope they enjoyed their season and that the U6 go on to enjoy playing hockey at university and beyond.

WGO CAPTAIN: W. Greenbank (S) SQUAD: S. Armstrong (C), O. Brierley (C), F. Byrne (S), G. Clarke (O), C. Collins (P), A. Dashwood (L), A. Greenwood (O), L. Johnson (N), H. Lewis (C), W. Needham (N), A. Rai (P), W. Waldock (O), C. Watson (N), J. Webb (S).

F 38

U16 A XI

A 12

BROMSGROVE 1ST XI

W 8-4

MCS, OXFORD 1ST XI

W 5-1

TRENT COLLEGE

W 11-0

OAKHAM

W 6-4

UPPINGHAM

W 4-0

RUGBY

CANCELLED

OUNDLE

W 3-1

DEAN CLOSE

L 1-2

I thoroughly enjoyed the Lent Term, coaching this excellent set of Reptonians. In regular fixtures, there were no delusions of grandeur, and there was a general willingness to work hard for each other and try to play well-structured, passing hockey. This was especially true after Half-Term, where their form was excellent – so much so that the group was able to ride the loss of different key players for different matches. The platform was set by a solid base, typically including Alex Ottewell, Jacob Davies and Matt Newstead. George Fynn provided some attacking threat from right-half and the midfield was usually marshalled by the influential trio of Will Hobson, Xavier Finglas Teyletche and Rory Nicholson. They were often supported by Will Wright, who showed himself adept at slotting in anywhere, and Billy Collins, who was perhaps the most consistently dangerous attacking threat. In the forward line, Mackie Newton was ably assisted by a triple axis of energy in Matt Archer, James Murphy and Josh Sherry. The trophy run was very enjoyable and a significant learning curve: this was not a squad that blew teams away physically; they had to adapt to playing stronger and faster opposition – something that was well-illustrated by defeat to Uppingham in the Midlands Zone rounds. Whilst there was a nervy penalty shoot-out to qualify for the Midlands Final, the tournament at Cannock HC saw the group play some excellent hockey throughout the day and take their chances well in all but that semi-final game. They needed to grit it out at times and wait for their moments to play more expansively.

When this happens, the skill level of this group is right up there with the sides of the past couple of years. At the National Finals, the boys will feel that they did not hit top gear throughout the event. In the first match, despite going behind twice due to hesitancy and lethargy, the team got off to a decent start, thanks to a first-half goal from Hobson (assisted by a great steal from Murphy) and two goals from Teyletche, whose winner was somewhat dramatic, coming with less than ten seconds left on the clock from a penalty corner, weaving through the onrushing defenders to slot home. The second game, against Cranleigh, saw Repton fall behind early and have to chase the game. Lots of energy went into this one, but the team failed to produce the passing style required to pose a more regular threat to the Cranleigh goal. The final game, against Dean Close, was a win-or-bust scenario. All three goals conceded were from penalty corners, which was frustrating. In the first half, the display was characterised once again by over-dribbling. However, after Newton pulled a goal back, the first ten minutes of the second half saw the team play their best hockey of the event, moving the ball well, before an unfortunate yellow card knocked the wind out of the Repton sail. To come third in the group was not where the team wanted to be, but they should reflect on a good season and how important it is to be on your game, all of the time, at this level.

DAE

P 18 F 70

W 11 A 27

BROMSGROVE

L 1-2

MCS, OXFORD

L 0-5

TRENT COLLEGE

W 8-3

OAKHAM

D 2-2

UPPINGHAM RUGBY

W 5-1 CANCELLED

OUNDLE

W 11-1

DEAN CLOSE

W 4-2

Midlands Zone Round QUALIFIED DENSTONE COLLEGE

W 7-0

WORKSOP COLLEGE

W 1-0

UPPINGHAM

L 0-1

Midlands Finals CHAMPIONS GROUP 1 RUGBY

W 5-1

GROUP 2 KES, BIRMINGHAM

W 2-1

GROUP 3 NEWCASTLE-U-LYME

W 13-0

SEMI-FINAL OAKHAM FINAL RUGBY

D 1-1 (W 4-2 PENS) W 6-0

National Finals GROUP 1 THE PERSE

W 3-2

GROUP 2 CRANLEIGH

L 0-2

GROUP 3 DEAN CLOSE

L 1-3

CAPTAIN: X. Finglas Teyletche (N) U16 NATIONALS SQUAD: M. Ainger (N), M. Archer (P), B. Bond (N), Z. Brough (S), W. Collins (P), G. Fynn (S), W. Hobson (S), O. Lloyd (N), J. Murphy (S), M. Newstead (S), M. Newton (C), R. Nicholson (C), A. Ottewell (N), J. Sherry (L), W. Tomalin (N), J. Williams (S), W. Wright (O). U16 REGULAR SQUAD: M. Archer (P), M. Atherton (O), W. Collins (P), J. Davies (O), G. Fynn (S), W. Hobson (S), M. Lewis (P), J. Murphy (S), M. Newstead (S), M. Newton (C), R. Nicholson (C), A. Ottewell (N), O. Scutt (L), J. Sherry (L), R. Tabata (N), J. Thompson-Dykes (P), W. Tomalin (N), W. Wright (O).

SPORT

The Reptonian 2017/2018

U16 B XI

U14 A XI

Sporting aficionados will look back wistfully on the great deeds of the Repton U16 B hockey Goliaths.

It was a pleasure to coach the U14 A team for the conclusion of their first season at Repton. Training was always competitive and the enthusiasm of the players was infectious. The last game of the regular season was against a strong Uppingham team and we were on the wrong side of a 2-0 score-line in a lively encounter. The Midlands Finals were the highlight of the season: losing the semi-final and consequently not making the Nationals was disappointing, but the team’s maturity in analysing their flaws was impressive. They know that, if they are to be successful further up the school, they need to be calmer in possession and avoid giving the ball away under pressure. Nonetheless, the progress made and attitude of the team was great to see and I wish them all the best for next season.

Early-season promise was shown, though rustiness prevailed in losses to Bromsgrove and MCS, Oxford. At the third time of asking, Trent were put to the sword in a confidencebuilding 3-1 win. A strong focus in practice sessions on teamwork, ball retention and passing and moving took some time to embed in a group of talented individuals, many of whom enjoyed showing off their talents… but often in their own D, rather than in the final quarter! Conditioned match-play, varied drills and a collective understanding that the ball moves at a quicker rate than a dribbling player took a while to sink in, but progress was ultimately made. The goalkeeping consistency of Maxim ‘first you see me, then you don’t’ Krivonogov and wannabe rugby stalwart and panther between the sticks, Max ‘the Octopus’ Atherton, were at the heart of the team’s success. In front of goal, a committed and mobile wall was marshalled by Ben ‘the skilful sicknote’ Wheelton and Josh ‘silent but violent’ Hornsey, with attacking endeavour offered out wide by the defensive squad of Ivan ‘the quiet assassin’ Kozlov, Alex ‘I’ll give it my all, but which end do I use?’ Collier, Jake ‘Model T’ Ford and Thiery ‘the Phantom’ Fan. A blend of industry and flair in midfield from athletic skipper, Oli ‘smooth as silk’ Scutt was bolstered by the graft of Nathan ‘Mr Reliable’ Baker and Will ‘the warrior’ Wilkinson, with cameo performances from Ren ‘maybe I’ll pass, maybe I won’t… more likely I won’t’ Tabata, Matt ‘chicken-legged legend’ Lewis, Elliot Jon ‘the wanderer’ Hall and Kian ‘modest and honest’ Modhwadia. These midfield maestros paved the way for some fine performances in the second half of term, as our potent forward-line hit its straps. The indefatigable wingers, Callum ‘the wheels’ Inman and Charlie ‘the finesse’ Furniss, created countless openings for forwards Ben ‘goalhanger’ Wanger and Seb ‘sure shot, but don’t expect me to run’ Sayer to facilitate victories over Oundle and Uppingham (the latter a magnificent end of season 7-1 flourish). An entertaining final season of Repton hockey for the coach, who thanks all concerned for their commitment to the team throughout the term.

SOM

CAPTAIN: O. Scutt (L) SQUAD: M. Atherton (O), N. Baker (P), A. Collier (N), T. Fan (C), J. Ford (S), C. Furniss (O), E.J. Hall (S), J. Hornsey (O), C. Inman (O), I. Kozlov (C), M. Krivonogov (L), M. Lewis (P), K. Modhwadia (N), S. Sayer (C), R. Tabata (N), J. Wanger (S), B. Wheelton (S), W. Wilkinson (P).

F 14

A 13

SQUAD: O. Adams-O’Rorke (S), F. Bashforth-Bell (O), B. Bonwitt-Marsh (P), B. Cann (O), S. Clarke (L), A. Coleston-Shields (S), G. Edwards (L), H. Gillett (S), J. Gould (N), L. Haigh (S), O. Hall (S), W. Ingham (C), R. Knowles (S), J. Reading (N), R. Rustom (L), I. Savage (L), Z. Wenham (S).

U15 A, B & C XIs

ALSO PLAYED: M. Ewart-White (N), F. James (L), H. Wilson (P). The results illustrate how the U15 A team fared compared to the others on the circuit, but don’t show why. They were, of course, full of the usual 14/15-yearold enthusiasm that prioritises reverse-stick shooting over trapping, and penalty strokes over the ability to pass the ball flat on the floor. However, they were as determined as any side to win – and also improve. They took on new tactical ideas well and understood the importance of strong decision-making in crucial areas of the pitch. The early season was spent playing against boys who, in physical comparison, looked like they spent the day eating meat and bicep-curling. Fortunately, we were more adept technically and, whilst we were challenged, these proved to be excellent tests and valuable lessons. There were games in the mid-season that we won more comfortably and, by the end of the campaign, when we were playing our best hockey, it felt like anyone would have to be exceptional to beat us. When we played Dean Close in the final game, not even the challenge of a smaller pitch and quite an extensive amount of snow (with the accompanying temperatures) could drop our desire to play. An excellent performance saw us come out on top and turn around a significant defeat early in their U14 year. In limited space, it is difficult to give every player the credit they deserve, but I was impressed with so many of them and the way they approached representing the school. Zack Brough’s contender for Goal of the Season was a belter, I heard, but I picked the wrong moment to turn around and check how the U15 B team was doing on the adjacent pitch and missed it! Not every team is as committed to learning about the game and improving as much as this one was and to remain unbeaten on the best fixture circuit the Midlands can throw up was no mean feat. They were a pleasure to coach and a team with whom I enjoyed working a great deal. I will watch their development closely as they head up the hockey ranks at Repton. It was a remarkable season for the U15 B hockey team, who, after being set the challenge to go the whole term without conceding a goal, came agonisingly close to an unblemished campaign. Conceding just the one goal (during blizzard-like conditions in their final game) in a term is an achievement for which the boys should be rightly proud and their play certainly merited this record. Fine victories over Bromsgrove, Oakham and Uppingham, during which some magnificent attacking hockey was played, set the benchmark early in the term. However, it was a gutsy away victory over Oundle that really epitomised the hard work of the team, as the boys were forced to play the entire match a man down, due to illness. I hope the boys continue to enjoy their hockey moving forwards and I wish them every success as they go on to represent more senior teams in the future.

As the stats suggest, the U15 C side was very talented and remained unbeaten, the only match not won being away at Oundle with a bare 10 men, as illness took out over half the regular team. Unsurprisingly, they won the ISHL U15 C Midlands League at a canter. However, there is a fine line between competitiveness and unpleasantness, and too many of this team crossed the line to the latter too often for me to have enjoyed the season. On the plus side, Sam Cunningham made a gentlemanly captain, Joe Riley proved a fantastic utility player in almost every outfield position, and Fraser Davis was an absolute rock as sweeper.

IMP, DJR & JMJH

U15 A

P 14

F 25

L 0-4

BROMSGROVE

L 0-4

MCS, OXFORD

L 2-6

FOREMARKE U13A

L 3-8

OAKHAM

D 0-0

TRENT COLLEGE

W 5-4

UPPINGHAM

CANCELLED

DEAN CLOSE

CANCELLED

County Finals CHAMPIONS TRENT COLLEGE

U15 B

L 0-2

RUGBY

U15 C

A 39

WARWICK

W 5-2

Midlands Zone Round QUALIFIED

U15 A CAPTAIN: Z. Brough (S)

UPPINGHAM

L 1-2

U15 A SQUAD: M. Ainger (N), E. Berlusconi (L), B. Bond (N), S. Clark (O), S. Donegan (N), H. Dunn (P), J. Earwicker (S), M. Gentzke (O), T. Hawksworth (N), W. Ingham (P), J. Jacques (P), O. Lloyd (N), A. Mair (P), W. Orpin (C), H. Scutt (N), C. Tarrant (S), J. Williams (S).

WEST BRIDGFORD

W 4-0

U15 B CAPTAIN: J. Earwicker (S) U15 B SQUAD: B. Adshead (P), J. Bramfitt (S), A. Chima (L), F. Dumbill (P), H. Gilby (S), I. Green (L), J. Jacques (P), A. Mair (P), N. Nefedov (O), O. Randall (O), D. Russell (S), J. Truelove-Cooke (N), W. Wade (O).

Midlands Finals SEMI-FINALISTS GROUP 1 MEOLE BRACE

W 2-1

GROUP 2 BISHOP VESEY’S GS

W 1-0

GROUP 3 TRENT COLLEGE

D 2-2

SEMI-FINAL BROMSGROVE

L 0-2

ALSO PLAYED: R. Cheung (C), T. Hawksworth (N), T. Whitwell (P). U15 C CAPTAIN: S. Cunningham (O) U15 C SQUAD: E. Ashton (C), R. Cheung (C), T. Chohan (C), F. Davis (O), W. Hooper-Smith (O), T. Jervis (S), T. Jones (S), R. Khosla (C), W. Lunn (C), M. Mackrill (C), J. Presley-King (L), J. Riley (P), G. Tverbokhlehov (P). ALSO PLAYED: M. Armour (S), B. Bonwitt-Marsh (P), B. Cann (O), O. Heap (N), N. Nefedov (O), J. Sinclair (C), T. Whitwell (P), A. Yegenmammedov (L), W. Zhou (C).

1ST XI

JAS

SPORT

The Reptonian 2017/2018

U14 B & C XIs Many of the U14 C team were new to hockey and, throughout the Lent Term, they developed a range of skills, whilst competing admirably in some wellcontested matches, their most notable success being a 2-1 victory against Oakham. Unfortunately, latter matches succumbed to poor weather. There were some excellent individual performances, not least from Cameron Wagg and Marcus Galley, who were instrumental in leading the team. Julien Bertolino came from humble beginnings, having never played hockey, to form the basis of a strong defensive line, while Oliver Heap admirably rose to the challenge of goalkeeper, pulling off some spectacular saves to keep the goal difference minimal. Although there were some trying times, the boys did themselves proud, always emerging positively from defeats: the sense of unity and camaraderie between them, and the supportive team structure, made it a pleasure to coach them.

NETBALL 1ST VII

JDS

U14 B U14 C

W D

1 0

U14 B CAPTAIN: H. Gillet (S) U14 B SQUAD: F. Barker (O), J. Brown (C), N. Coulborn (S), P. Derry (S), M. Ewart-White (N), L. Haigh (S), J. Kinsiona (L), S. Rashid (P), J. Reading (N), C. Redfern (L), J. Smith (O), C. Truscott (O), G. Wilkinson (P), H. Wilson (P), R. Wright (C), D. Yeats Brown (O). ALSO PLAYED: G. Edwards (L), O. Heap (N), F. James (L), F. Lake (O), R. Rustom (L), T. Wilken (N). U14 C SQUAD: J. Alford (N), A. Atwal (L), J. Bertolino (L), C. Bingham (P), J. Brown (C), F. Cann (O), M. Fulford (O), M. Galley (P), O. Heap (N), A. Holt (N), T. Ikhsan (S), G. Marriott (L), T. Poon (P), C. Wagg (S), L. Wallace (P), W. Wilcher (N).

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This 1st VII squad was a real pleasure to coach. I never mind getting beaten by a better side, as long as lessons can be learned from the experience and this team epitomised this ethic. We struggled in our first two matches against national-standard teams: none of our members have played netball at such a physically challenging level, so the impact of these games, came as a shock to all, I felt. The pace at which 1st VII Netball has developed is dramatic. With oppositions able to release players to play outside of school, our training schedule had to be meaningful, with high intensity, to make the vital gains to compete. Just two weeks into term, after two heavy defeats, the girls were keen to step into battle with Trent, our favourite local rivals. We had played them in a thrillingly close match, pre-season, so we were determined to avoid a losing hat-trick. The final score of 21-18 reflected the nail-bitingly close game, with our 1st VII

capitalising on opposition errors to take the ball to goal in the final few minutes and get their reward for working together until the final whistle – which I was delighted with. Training focused on keeping calm when in possession of the ball and working hard to create goal-scoring opportunities from turnovers. This was giving the girls confidence to go for interceptions, chase down loose balls and raised their own expectations of contact during match play: we always look too nice on court! With the team’s morale on a high, we played Ecclesbourne and Stamford, both schools having qualified for the Regionals, when we had narrowly missed out in the Michaelmas Term. I was so proud to watch the girls in action in both games: they played with intelligence and patience, while their fitness was greatly superior to both oppositions, which further bolstered the squad’s ability to fight until the finish.

My favourite match had to be the local Derby High clash: we were met with a team who didn’t look very intimidating on arrival, but had enough club players to keep the game extremely close. Every goal was contested and neither team got a break of more than two or three goals; it was always going to go the distance and Immy Clowes nailed the final shot on the whistle to take the match and the victory – similar to Helen Housby’s Commonwealth Gold medal-winning shot on the Gold Coast, minus the white beach and sea! (We were in Derby, after all!)

I hope all the U6 leavers will continue their netball at some level at university or beyond. Georgie Brownhill made a stunning captain and I truly valued her input throughout the season, as well as her excellent organisation of the charity staff netball match. Thank you, Georgie, and thank you to all the squad for such an enjoyable term of Netball.

BROMSGROVE

OUNDLE NOTTINGHAM HS

L 19-58 CANCELLED

LOUGHBOROUGH HS

L 8-28

TRENT COLLEGE

W 21-18

ECCLESBOURNE

W 24-20

STAMFORD

W 35-18

RUGBY

L 36-55

DERBY HS

W 20-19

UPPINGHAM OAKHAM

County Finals 3RD PLACE

CANCELLED L 20-48 CANCELLED

CAPTAIN: G. Brownhill (M) SQUAD: I. Clarke (F), I. Clowes (A), T. Dewhirst (G), S. Garner (F), J. Hibell (M), S. Hudson (M), E. Kaczmarczyk (M), T. Lloyd (G), M. Montague (F), G. Renshaw (M).

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SPORT

The Reptonian 2017/2018

CAPTAIN: E. Buffin (M)

3RD & 4TH VIIs

2ND VII In a season that will largely be remembered for poor weather and cancelled fixtures, the 2nd VII still gave their best and always remained a pleasure to coach. For me, team spirit, camaraderie, effort and enjoyment are the most important attributes of a team; they are the foundations on which to build our skills and tactics, and underpin all that we do, whether in training or competing in a match. This year’s 2nd VII showed all of these skills in abundance, helped in part by our wonderfully positive, calm, and organised captain, Lauren Archer, who led perfectly by example and helped encourage and develop this super group of girls. Our first game against Oundle was a one-sided affair, but I was pleased that our girls showed resilience, despite the challenge, and were able to come back to win the final quarter. I was also grateful to Imogen Hatton, who stepped in to play, so skilfully, for the 2nds for this match, and it was obvious to see why she had qualified for the National Finals with the U16 team. One area we focused on this term was possession. In attack, we worked hard to time our runs and to find space to make the next pass a little easier; after all, avoiding turnovers and keeping the ball makes it impossible for the opposition to score. In defence, limiting possession, applying pressure and trying to intercept were arguably even more important. I was pleased to see the girls work on these areas through the whole season, and particularly in their final match, where their efforts were rewarded with a dominant

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performance. Despite losing, the Rugby match was one of the highlights of the season: the girls played competitively yet fairly, backed up by some superb and accurate shooting from Emily Hingley, Georgie English and Lucy Gould. Special mention should also go to Sophie Earp, who would normally shoot, given the chance, but played so well all season at GD, making life difficult for the opposition and using her height to her advantage. I wish our departing U6 players (Iona, Lauren, Georgie, Emily and Maddi) the very best for their future and hope that they continue to enjoy netball and have as fond memories as I do of their final season at Repton. I also look forward to working with the other girls again next year and to building on the strong foundations they made this season.

The 2018 season fell victim to the assorted Beast from the East weather systems, and we only managed to play four matches (we did try to play five matches, but – despite travelling to Oakham – we failed). However, the 3rd VII’s cheery presence on the courts was heart-warming, and we were united in our approach to the game. At the end of our first victory, the opposition coach described the 3rds as having “strength, depth and determination” – and she was not wrong. In a squad where 40% were specialist shooters, there had to be a certain amount of flexibility over positions, and I was delighted with the way that the team willingly shuffled round to fill the gaps. Indigo Omilana and Ruby Gale filled the captain’s boots with aplomb, and I wish them well as they head off beyond the Arch. Let’s hope the weather is kinder next year! Despite the weather and the cancelled fixtures (three out of six calendared games!), the 4th XI girls were focused, determined and worked well as a squad – a notable statistic being that they scored 79 goals in those three games! It was good to see some familiar faces from last season, as well as some new members who quickly settled into the team and style of play. Training sessions were a pleasure, with many memorable moments making the cold wet afternoons well worth it! Of the matches played, a highlight was the decisive 27-12 win against Bromsgrove: we knew this would be a tough match, but the girls secured one of the few Repton victories that day. Congratulations, girls!

MKC & GLH

SMI P4

OUNDLE TRENT COLLEGE STAMFORD RUGBY UPPINGHAM BROMSGROVE 3RD VII OAKHAM

L 23-45

CANCELLED

3RD VII

W 29-19

4TH VII

L 23-28 CANCELLED W 28-15 CANCELLED

CAPTAIN: L. Archer (G) SQUAD: C. Abell (A), S. Earp (A), G. English (F), L. Gould (M), E. Hingley (F), S. Ktori (A), M. Lea (M), C. Martin (M), I. Winn-Darley (M). ALSO PLAYED: M. Bridge (M), I. Hatton (G), A. Stone (G).

SQUAD: C. Archer (M), E. Bond (F), G. Brown (M), E. Cann (A), S. Corner (G), H. English (F), I. Hatton (G), G. Pope (G), J. Smith (M), C. Swain (M), M. Swain (M).

3RD VII CAPTAINS: R. Gale (M) & I. Omilana (M) 3RD VII SQUAD: M. Bridge (M), F. Cole (F), A. Harcus (A), S. Lloyd-Dickinson (G), J. Merriman (A), M. Needler (M), I. Sharratt (M), S. Walker (A). ALSO PLAYED: C. Abell (A), S. Corner (G). 4TH VII SQUAD: E. Andrews (M), K. Atwal (M), L. Bobone Mendia de Castro (F), A. Chohan (A), L. Constantinou (M), D. Devikanand (G), L. Drury (M), A. Gilbert (G), P. Jukes (G), A. Marshall (M), L. Mueller (A), E. Smith (F), H. Smith (F), L. Staley (F), C. Swinbank (M).

P 10

LITTLEOVER CS

W 26-7

OUNDLE

W 46-23

TRENT COLLEGE

W 28-13

LOUGHBOROUGH HS

W 24-13

STAMFORD

W 18-13

RUGBY

W 31-25

DERBY HS UPPINGHAM

W 29-10 CANCELLED

BROMSGROVE 2ND VII

L 20-26

TRENT COLLEGE 1ST VII

W 24-17

OAKHAM

CANCELLED

County Finals CHAMPIONS P5 W5 L0 Regional Finals RUNNERS-UP P6 W4 L2 National Finals 16TH PLACE P8 W1 L7

U16 A VII The U16 A girls had a hugely busy and successful season: starting in the Michaelmas Term with LP, they convincingly won the County Tournament to go through to the Regional Finals. The Lent Term started with Oundle as tough opposition after the Christmas break. As the first outing as a full squad, the girls kept possession and moved the ball brilliantly to beat the opposition comfortably. As the term progressed, focusing on the Regionals was a priority, as well as balancing the number of injuries that were sustained. In the attacking circle, Millie Cann, Sophie Corner and Harriet English progressed massively to hold their space more comfortably and dictate where they wanted the opposing defender to be. As an U14 player, Claudia Swain held her own brilliantly in each match: her confidence improved massively against older players and her movement and shooting was second to none. Imo Hatton, Charly Archer and Gabby Pope worked tirelessly as WD. Due to various injuries, all girls had to slot in where needed, and converted

many interceptions to turn a defensive play into as attacking as possible. Georgia Brown worked tirelessly as Centre, using her height to her advantage – a force to be reckoned with in the centre and attacking thirds! Ella Buffin also worked hard; her speed down the court worked to Repton’s advantage. There is no getting away from the fact that the defence may be a little verticallychallenged! However, Jessie Smith, Ellie Bond and Mia Swain used their springiness to get as many tips to the ball as possible, working the ball down the court and being a calming influence in all matches. The girls qualified for the National Finals, which is a huge achievement in itself. The tournament itself was extremely tough, but the girls did themselves proud: they were competitive throughout the day, narrowly losing a few games, which could have easily gone the other way. To finish 16th in the country is a remarkable achievement and one that they should be proud of. I thoroughly enjoyed coaching these girls and it was a pleasure to be around their determined, yet

fun-natured attitudes. They progressed and gelled hugely as a team and are fully equipped to compete as Senior netballers, next year. Well done, girls.

GKR

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SPORT

The Reptonian 2017/2018

U15 A VII It is well-documented that the weather had a significant impact on the 2018 Netball season and, glancing at our results, it might be easy to imagine that we were quite pleased to have had five fixtures cancelled. Nothing could be further from the truth, though, and I am so pleased to report that, despite some challenging matches against strong sides, the U15 A squad remained positive and enthusiastic throughout, always eager to add tactical advice to their play, and unfailingly supportive of one another. The season got off to a strong start against Oundle, where the quality of netball so early in the season really was excellent. Goals went with centre-passes for the majority of the game, just as they do at the highest level and, while we lost narrowly, there was much to feel positive about. Cancelled fixtures and the loss of our talented and much-valued GD, Sophie Haigh, meant that we faced Loughborough High depleted, but it would be wrong to suggest that anything we could have done might have had an impact on the strongest team we faced this year: it is unusual to see height coupled with skill throughout a team and, with club experience at Loughborough Lightening also very evident, we really were outplayed. There followed some hard-fought fixtures against strong opposition: we beat Littleover in clinical style, but, in fact, any of the matches in this middle part of the season could have

gone our way, and the loss of Sophie was again hard-felt. We suffered our second heavy defeat against a talented and physical Bromsgrove side in our last school fixture, so went into the County Tournament with confidence a little low. I am so pleased that the girls came into their own at this point: their teamplay was as slick as it had been throughout and, tactically, we were both effective and consistent. In a long tournament, in difficult conditions, we won 6 games convincingly, only losing narrowly to Trent and to a strong Derby High side – the eventual winners. Particular mention must go to our Captain, Eliza Martin, here: it’s not easy to steer a team through tough fixtures and to remain positive and inspiring, yet Eliza managed this superbly during this tournament, willing the team to win, and reassuring them that they could! Although the team, as a whole, lacks in the height department, each member of this squad has real ability and, importantly, made the very best of it this season. Charlotte Steele’s shooting accuracy is second-to-none and, while Carys Duke and Poppy Kellock struggled against a number of giant GDs, their tenacity and sheer willingness to give their all saw them come off the court knowing that they contributed to a score the team could be proud of. In the mid-court, Amelie Naylor, Eliza, Izzy Mansfield and Ellie Barlow were quick

and athletic, and the circle-feeding was particularly strong, this year. So often we had much less of the possession than the opposition, yet converted at a far higher percentage. In defence, I cannot congratulate Zara Knowles and Scout Butler enough: defensive circle play in netball is so tough, especially during a season where the losses outnumber the wins, and yet these two remained steadfastly committed to their roles, never tiring of challenging for a tip that might reverse possession, and distributing the ball effectively to build an attack. That these girls remained so willing and positive is to be celebrated and, as such, they were a joy to coach this season. They should be very proud of their performances.

CJJ

SQUAD: E. Barlow (G), S. Butler (F), C. Duke (F), S. Haigh (M), P. Kellock (G), Z. Knowles (F), I. Mansfield (M), A. Naylor (M), C. Steele (F).

County Finals 3RD PLACE P8 W6 L2

U15 B & C VIIs This was a rather inchoate season, with four fixtures, including the Uppingham Tournament, cancelled, and there persists the feeling that this delightful group of young women never really got the chance to prove just how accomplished they were. Across the court, we were blessed – and this is no time for disingenuous understatement – with genuinely world-class individuals: players of pace, judiciously-unleashed aggression, and achingly beautiful timing and skill. The purest distillation of this quality was expressed in the fiercely-contested Bromsgrove fixture, in which we stormed ahead 5-0 in the first quarter, then went two goals behind at the start of the fourth, before a clinically eviscerating passage of play delivered one of the most exciting and joyous five minutes of this writer’s life – and sealed a 25-22 victory. This tantalised us with a glimpse

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of the glories that might have been, but the weather denied us the rewards of their fruition. That said, the Ballet of Devastation that is the U15 Bs were the only undefeated team in the School; they were the only undefeated team in the U15 B Independent Schools Netball League; and the team with the highest points-pergame average in the U15 B League. Cancellations or not, anyone with the intellectual capacities to distinguish between an over-ripe avocado and a Corby trouser-press could have told you that this was the best U15 B side on the circuit. We’ll take that. It was also a really impressive season for the U15 C girls. They had some remarkable wins, most notably 22-0 against Trent, after a 38-4 win against Oundle! Due to some unpredictable weather throughout the term, it was a shame to have had a few games cancelled, but the girls persevered through the rain

and snow with absolute determination and enthusiasm. They should be very proud of their achievements.

CSD & SJP U15 B CAPTAIN: Z. Wedgwood (A) U15 B SQUAD: M. Bowman (M), H. Cook (A), O. Ellis (G), K. Gabriel (G), H. Nieper (F), K. Pearce (A), P. Plant (M), L. Richards (A), E. Scutt (M).

The weather made this a very difficult season for the U14 B team, who only managed to play three full competitive fixtures. The final goal tally does not reflect their tenacity as a team and their determination to train well and improve their skills throughout the course of a challenging season.

The Lent Term got off to a flier and one of the highlights of the term was the clinical match we played against Oundle. Olivia Singer, as Captain and Centre, was the lynchpin of the team and her no-nonsense (no pain) attitude set the tone for the match. Alicia Bailey at GA had a blinder too, and gave a demonstration on near-perfect shooting. We followed this win with victories over Littleover and Trent U15 As and just got better and better. The girls worked really well as a team and worked hard for each other, which is so important. Our focus, though, was on the Regional Finals and we were all set and raring to go until disaster struck and the lurgy ripped through the heart of the team! In the words of Emily Thompstone: “I must be ill – I haven’t even put my make-up on!”. Vile wind and severe cold didn’t help matters and we struggled to find form. There are times when, as much as you try, it is simply not your day. This was not to be our day and we slid out of the competition before the semi-final stages. The timing was heart-breaking, to say the least. The girls were undoubtedly in with a shout at victory, but Lady Luck just wasn’t on our side.

from the East” was a quick-fire afternoon and we improved as the afternoon went on, then concluded the term with a full fixture against a very competent Bromsgrove side. It wouldn’t have been the conclusion to the term that we would have chosen, but, unfortunately, matches had to be cancelled against Uppingham, RGS Worcester and Oakham, either because of weather limitations or our opponents qualifying for the National Finals.

NMD

U15 C SQUAD: E. Balderston (M), F. Buckley (A), A. Costello (M), M. Gilmore (M), P. Hix (G), T. Johnson (M), K. Knight (M), E. Lownds (A), E. Mansfield (G), A. Tertychnaya (G), K. Yates (G).

U15 C

The U14 As began their netball career at Repton in the Michaelmas Term, competing in the County Tournament just seven weeks into term. This was a tough ask on the girls, as they hadn’t played together as a team before. They did not disappoint and, although they didn’t win the competition, they came a very respectable second place, thereby earning themselves a place in the Regional Finals.

I enjoyed the company of this fantastic set of girls enormously. I like their style. They work hard, play hard and are full of fun and mischief! I will not miss their singing on the back of a coach, however; I have not felt it necessary to request a re-audition for Chapel Choir. I look forward enormously to sitting back and watching them progress through the School, though, as there is much to see from them yet.

ALSO PLAYED: E. Barlow (G), E. Lownds (A).

U15 B

U14 B & C VIIs

Fully recovered, we bounced back to full strength quickly and had two fantastic matches against Stamford and Rugby, in both cases making the point further that we are a team that can still play well in poor conditions. Bronte Brough, at GD, was all over her CAPTAIN: O. Singer (G) shooters and made countless SQUAD: E. Anastasiou (M), interceptions, in particular in the I. Archer (M), A. Bailey (A), match against Stamford. B. Brough (M), C. Dashwood (A), E. Derry (F), E. Rush (M), A tournament at Bromsgrove just E. Thompstone (M). before the arrival of the “Beast

CAPTAIN: E. Martin (M)

U14 A VII

OUNDLE

W 22-14

LITTLEOVER

W 30-5

LOUGHBOROUGH HS

CANCELLED

TRENT COLLEGE U15A

W 23-20

STAMFORD

W 34-10

RUGBY ECCLESBOURNE OAKHAM UPPINGHAM BROMSGROVE

W 36-13 CANCELLED L 5-10

Away at Stamford, Captain Ellie Derry showed her brilliant ability to control the pace of the game at Centre and was named “man of the match” by the opposition. She worked superbly well with Izzi at WA to keep opportunities in place for the ball to move down the court. This match saw the team having to revert to defensive play and Mary and Tilly kept snatching in the rebounds and making it hard for the Stamford shooters to have too many opportunities in the circle. Against Rugby there was again an excellent connection between Ellie at C and Izzi Evans at WA and these two became the lynchpins of the team. Emily Matcham showed her incredible versatility as a player, moving between WD and GA and playing effectively in both positions. The final score of 14-5 was a good result, but, as the other umpire highlighted, does not fairly reflect just how determined Repton had been, or how close so many different aspects of the game had been. In our final match against Bromsgrove, Repton made a great start to the first quarter, with some good play between mid-court players and our attacking pair. Emily’s move to GA worked well, and she shot beautifully, which meant that we had an end score of 22-6, thereby closing the gap on our opponents. The U14 C girls also played with enthusiasm and determination all season. They faced some tough teams in some tough conditions, but always played with respect for the opposition and umpires. Their biggest success was against Trent, both away and at home, conceding no goals in either match. They also had an excellent game against Rugby. Due to the weather, they lost out on a lot of match-play, with four games unfortunately being cancelled. The team rotated the captaincy, leading the warm-up drills and hosting the visiting team with grace. This season was a great one for the girls: with their team spirit and effort, they did me proud.

AFP & LRJ

CANCELLED L 16-31

RGS WORCESTER

CANCELLED

U14 B CAPTAIN: E. Derry (F)

OAKHAM

CANCELLED

U14 B SQUAD: M. Brown (M), S. Dex (G), I. Evans (M), C. Grainger-Spivey (A), M. Illingworth (M), E. Matcham (A), M. Miers (A), S. Ott (F), M. Purewal (G).

Bromsgrove Tournament 4TH PLACE P5 W2 L3 County Finals RUNNERS-UP P6 W5 L1 Regional Finals 5TH PLACE P4 W1 L3

U14 C SQUAD: C. Bunting (G), A. Churchill (M), H. Coombs (A), L. Cooper-Ewin (A), E. Coull (F), D. Darby (G), D. Manasir (F), E. Polak (G), A. Robinson (G), S. Sunner (M).

U14 B

U14 C

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ATHLETICS It was a remarkable year on the Athletics track, where no fewer than five school records fell. Captain Jessica Lee led by example and is now the holder of the 100m and 200m record, having had a fantastic battle with Georgina Brownhill throughout the season. Jess left the school with five records to her name. Kelsey Pearce proved herself to be a tour-de-force in various field events, having broken the Junior Girls’ shot and javelin records. Indeed, her distances were greater than the Intermediate records! Rebekah Walton, who joined from John Port, obliterated a long-standing javelin record by nine metres: she will, of course, be giving Kelsey something to aim for, quite literally, in years to come! Holly Cook and Callum Inman both had very impressive debut seasons, notching up a number of wins in the 300m and 400m, respectively. Toward the end of the season, both athletes were training at clubs and this should prove ideal preparation for the 2018 season. Over longer distance, Isobel Emmet managed a number of top-three finishes in both the 800m and 1500m, marking a distinct improvement on the previous season. Nathan Furniss, winner of the Senior Victor Ludorum, had another excellent season and was rewarded with a place at the English Schools’ Championships, something he very much deserved, having given his utmost in each and every training session over the course of the year. As was the case last year, Repton athletes gave excellent accounts of themselves at the DSSA Championships and at the Multi-Events Championships. It is always a source of joy seeing the athletes branch away from their preferred disciplines and these are events the School will continue to support in seasons to come. Finally, I would also like to extend my thanks to the coaches, RGD and JDW, and particularly Bob Boyd, who works tirelessly to improve the performance of our athletes and has become a cornerstone of Repton Athletics over the past five years.

RGDR

BOYS’ CAPTAIN: C. Chukwumah (N) BOYS’ SQUAD: M. Atherton (O), H. Bennett (N), O. Campbell (O), P. Cheng (C), G. Clarke (O), E. Eren (L), C. Furniss (O), N. Furniss (O), E. J. Hall (S), W. Harlow (P), C. Inman (O), H. Kaczmarczyk (O), H. Lewis (C), R. Nicholson (C), W. Norcross (S), L. Parry (C), J. Savage (L), G. Singh (N), A. Swindale (L), C. Uffang (P), J. Wathall (N), C. Wilbraham (S), W. Wilkinson (P), O. Williams (O). GIRLS’ CAPTAIN: J. Lee (G) GIRLS SQUAD: C. Abell (A), A. Adams-O’Rorke (A), L. Archer (G), M. Bird (F), N. Bowen (F), G. Brownhill (M), F. Cole (F), H. Cook (A), G. Cooke (M), I. Emmett (M), H. Glover (M), G. Gordon (A), S. Holliday (F), C. Jowett (F), Z. Knowles (F), H. Lipton (G), E. Lownds (A), T. Miller (F), K. Pearce (A), G. Pope (G), R. Walton (F), S. Wilson (F), H. Wright (G).

SWIMMING This year, in addition to the House competitions, the swimmers participated in various inter-school competitions throughout the year. Their best performance was at Bromsgrove, in which most of our teams got to finals. The U16 Boys’ team shows great promise for the future, in both the freestyle events and medley relays, achieving a very similar time to the Senior Boys in the medley competition at Stowe, while some of our U16 Girls competed with the U18s. For the National Schools’ Competition, this year, we travelled down to London the night before to avoid the 5.30am start, enabling the squad to be wellrested and ready to swim in the Bath & Otter Cup at the Olympic Aquatics Centre. At the event, they all swam brilliantly and Oliver Whittingham and Venetia Mair achieved personal bests, both in freestyle.

RZW

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BOYS’ CAPTAIN: T. Coleman (S)

GIRLS’ CAPTAIN: P. Coombs (A)

U18 BOYS’ SQUAD: T. Mueller (N), J. Parton (C), G. Rice (N), A. Westwood (N), C. Wilcock (N).

U18 GIRLS’ SQUAD: S. Ainger (M), A. Earwicker (A), M. Griffiths (M), V. Mair (F), E. Mitchell (G), O. Stocks (G).

U16 BOYS’ SQUAD: Z. Brough (S), G. Edwards (L), R. Knowles (S), O. Ozer (N), O. Whittingham (C).

U16 GIRLS’ SQUAD: E. Anastasiou (M), E. Barlow (G), M. Bowman (M), B. Brough (M), Z. Knowles (F), I. Mansfield (M), E. Thompstone (M).

RUGBY The over-riding feeling at the end of this season was one of ‘what could have been’. The appalling weather meant that we had four games cancelled and all of these were ones we felt we would have had a good chance of winning.

playing rugby; and Parras Joshi provided good game-management from scrum-half. Special mention also goes to Al StuartMonteith, who was born to play rugby: his determination to be at the bottom of every ruck is quite remarkable!

Our season got off to a tough start against Shrewsbury’s 1st XV, but there were lots of positives to take away from the game, particularly in defence, where we made an extraordinary number of tackles. We followed this up with a good win against new opponents Abraham Darby, with Liam Combellack bagging a hat-trick of tries. We fought valiantly against King Henry VIII, Coventry, and were wining at half-time, but their strength-in-depth was the deciding factor. However, I have rarely been prouder of any team during my time at Repton on the final whistle: the boys had given everything they had and were a whisker away from pulling off a stunning victory against a very talented team.

Once again, this group of boys was an absolute pleasure to work with: their attitude, determination and good humour are a great credit to themselves and the School. We were very fortunate to have CTI join the coaching team this year; his knowledge and passion will serve Repton Rugby well in future years. A special thanks also goes to EGMS, who leaves us this year: he is the embodiment of all that is great about schoolboy rugby and his contribution to the development and interest boys have in the sport is a great credit to him.

CAPTAIN: O. Campbell (O) SQUAD: M. Atherton (O), G. Chabtini (S), L. Combellack (S), F. Dearsly (C), M. Dodman (L), T. Dunn (O), K. Hirano (N), T. Hvass (O), I. Isakov (S), M. Jankinson (L), M. Johnson (S), P. Joshi (P), J. Murphy (L), L. Parry (C), J. Phillips (O), S. Riley (P), P. Romanovskiy (O), R. Stevenson (S), A. Stuart-Monteith (S), M. Taylor (C), J. Wathall (N), C. Wilbraham (S), C. Wilcock (N).

MWTH

In the County Cup semi-final, scores were level at the break against QEGS, Ashbourne, but the loss of our manmountain Tom Hvass to a hamstring injury was a devastating blow and they progressed to the final, narrowly. We finished our season with a brilliant win against Derby Grammar, in a game played on the brand new artificial pitch at Derby Rugby Club. It was a fantastic afternoon and a fitting send-off to a brilliant bunch of lads: Otto Campbell led the team by example; Charlie Wilbraham added a devastating counter-attacking threat from full back; Jack Phillips developed into an outstanding second row in his two years

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GIRLS’ FOOTBALL To look at the playing record of this team, you would be forgiven for thinking they did not have a great season. However, you would be wrong! With almost all of the ‘Golden Generation’ ISFA Cup finalists departing for pastures new, this year was about re-energising the Girls’ Football programme and giving opportunities to those who had not had much experience of the game before.

CROSS COUNTRY

Losing 7-1 to eventual semi-finalists Oakham in the first round of the Cup meant we were knocked out in the Michaelmas Term, before our season had even begun. However, this gave us a benchmark by which to judge everything that was to follow and, although the weather would wreak havoc on the fixture list, the girls made huge progress in their subsequent matches. They lost narrowly to Rugby, grabbed a dramatic late winner against Uppingham and played superbly to defeat a decent Welbeck XI, 4-1. All that remained was a return to Oakham. Once again, the game was lost (0-2), but the performance was unrecognisable from the first encounter. Standing on the side-lines, watching our girls and hearing how complimentary the Oakham coaches were about their style of play, was a proud moment and one that indicated just how far we had come in such a short spell.

Many more stalwarts of the Girls’ Football programme will leave us this summer and I hope they will continue to play and enjoy the beautiful game as they head out into the world. For those that remain, they can look forward with a sense of anticipation: they have the potential to do great things next year.

F 11

A 17

CAPTAINS: F. Scutt (G) & A. Corner (G). SQUAD: J. Archer-Reed (F), E. Benson (A), A. Brinkman (G), C. Corominas Tous (M), L. Cremer (F), M. Devey-Smith (G), I. Hurren (A), J. Lloyd (G), C. Luke (F), M. Klymowec (G), E. Smith (F), E. Harris (M), H. Lipton (G), T. Miller (F), I. Nieper (F), K. Norton (G), J. Richardson (G). ALSO PLAYED: G. Brown (M), B. Bridge (M), I. Clarke (F), H. Davey (F), E. Kaczmarczyk (M), R. Nelson (M).

Repton’s distance runners must be feeling like frustrated rail commuters this year. Sometimes, all it seemed to take was leaves on the track for a meet to be postponed, cancelled or otherwise curtailed. We had to wait until pretty late in the season for an actual fixture – at Uppingham – with the stalwart regular games-optioners Freddie Nelson (5L), Sam Yates (5O), Charlotte Morris (5A), Izzy Hankins (5M), Dasha Isakova (5G), Freddie Holt (L6N), Alistair Westwood (L6N), Tom Dewsbury (L6O), Charles Royston-Webb (L6O) and Captain Andrew Swindale (U6L) finally getting a chance to do their stuff. Andrew, we know the chequered season was not your fault – no season could possibly be so unseasonal!

Of course, two young men – Alex and Rory – deserve special mention, both winning silver medals in their age groups and qualifying for the England Schools Championships. Without taking anything away from that splendid achievement, it is with another story this report should end; one that captures the very essence of what school sport can and should be. Having only just finished her own pretty gruelling race, Hattie Nieper caught sight of Holly Cook coming round the bend into her final leg. With limbs still aching, Hattie nevertheless ran the last leg of the race – again – side by side with Holly, cheering her team-mate all the way to the line. It was a great moment and, in a season where we struggled to find a dry enough patch of land to run on, something that really made it worthwhile.

JDW

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LUA BOBONE MENDIA DE CASTRO (U6F)

However, that said, the impressive Repton resilience saw our runners set their jaws against the elements, and of particular note were the Derbyshire County Championships (when they finally found a less rainy day!). A very fine team of Hattie Nieper (4F), Holly Cook (4A), Alex Coleston-Shields (3S), Rory Nicholson (5C), James Truelove-Cooke (4N), Charlie Furniss (5O), Freddie Holt and Alistair Westwood competed for South Derbyshire and truly did the School and district proud with their efforts. James and Hattie both achieved very creditable top 20 finishes, putting them rightfully in the top echelons of Derbyshire’s youth runners.

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REPTON HOUSE SPORT CHAMPIONS 2017-18

Girls’ Hockey 2017 SENIOR

THE GARDEN

JUNIOR

THE MITRE

SENIOR LEAGUE

THE MITRE

JUNIOR LEAGUE

THE GARDEN

Boys’ Hockey 2018 SENIOR

THE CROSS

JUNIOR

SCHOOL HOUSE

Netball 2018

Cricket 2017 SENIOR

THE ORCHARD

JUNIOR

SCHOOL HOUSE

SENIOR GIRLS

THE ABBEY

JUNIOR GIRLS

THE MITRE

BOYS

THE ORCHARD

Athletics 2017

James Kropacsy Relays 2017

THE MITRE

SENIOR B

FIELD HOUSE

JUNIOR A

THE MITRE

JUNIOR B

THE MITRE

Steeplechase 2018

Football 2017

Tennis 2017

SENIOR A

SENIOR

COMPETITION UNFINISHED

SENIOR RESERVES

THE PRIORY

JUNIOR

THE PRIORY

SENIOR LEAGUE

SCHOOL HOUSE

JUNIOR LEAGUE

SCHOOL HOUSE THE ORCHARD

SENIOR BOYS’ WINNER

F. HOLT (L6N)

SENIOR BOYS’ TEAM

THE PRIORY

SENIOR GIRLS’ WINNER

F. SCUTT (U6G)

SENIOR GIRLS’ TEAM

THE MITRE

JUNIOR BOYS’ WINNER

R. NICHOLSON (5C)

JUNIOR BOYS’ TEAM

THE PRIORY

JUNIOR GIRLS’ WINNER

H. NIEPER (4F)

BOYS

COMPETITION UNFINISHED

BOYS

THE ORCHARD

NOEL BENNETT TROPHY (6-A-SIDE)

GIRLS

COMPETITION UNFINISHED

GIRLS

THE MITRE

Swimming & The Caroline Tyler Memorial Relays

JUNIOR GIRLS’ TEAM

THE MITRE

Boys

THE CROSS

1ST B-BLOCK BOY

G. EDWARDS (3L)

GIRLS

THE MITRE

1ST B-BLOCK GIRL

B. BROUGH (3M)

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VALETE

KPMC Katie Couldrey (then Stevenson) joined the English and Drama Departments as a fresh-faced young teacher from Northern Ireland in September 2013. Those fortunate enough to work closely with her describe her as a brilliantly supportive colleague and an inspired teacher.

SDG Stephen Goudge joined Repton in September 2015, with his wife, Janette, and two young children, Ellie and Josh, coming on the recently well-trodden path from Whitgift School and quickly settling into Repton life. First and foremost, Steve is an outstanding teacher of Mathematics, willing to give of his time generously to help all the pupils in his classes – and plenty more who aren’t. He is equally adept with pushing the most able and helping the more mathematically-challenged to achieve their potential; I know that he takes as much pleasure in a set of A* grades at GCSE as he does in helping an individual achieve a C at the umpteenth time of asking. He has no professional ego of which to speak, but altruistically supports each of his charges, without need for praise – the sign of a quality schoolmaster.

SJP

Steve, Janette and the children leave us for Haileybury School, where Steve is taking on a pastoral role in addition to his teaching commitments, and where they will be nearer a support network as they begin the adoption/fostering process to add to their family. Any child whom they adopt will be very lucky indeed.

Siana Pendlebery came to Repton in September 2016 as a Newly-Qualified Teacher and was quick to demonstrate her natural affinity with boarding school life. She threw herself into her classroom teaching in not only one but two disciplines, Ethical & Religious Studies and Politics, as well as into Chapel and her sporting commitments. At first attached to The Mitre tutor team, she had a brief (and popular!) spell covering in The Orchard, before being snapped up as Resident Tutor by Field House. Always positive and pupil-centred, she is rightly honoured by colleagues and pupils for her openness, sense of humour and care for her job and those with whom she has shared her life in this place. Siana moves, for personal reasons, to a position at Woldingham School, Surrey and we wish her the very best. We shall miss her greatly.

MRW

NCR

He joined the Christian Forum upon arrival, taking over when CMK retired. So many pupils have valued this opportunity to explore their faith, and the society continues to grow because of the open, caring and non-judgemental environment that Steve fosters. I have seen first-hand his caring, compassionate and thorough nature in his role as Tutor in The Cross: he knows the boys in his tutor group so well and supports them all on an individual and collective basis. A keen sportsman, football and cricket are his main passions. He has enjoyed the former with the 3rd XI, Monday night football when on duty and staff football on Sunday evenings; he will take many fond memories with him of these. He was looking forward to coaching cricket prior to joining Repton, but, after a debut season that yielded just the one draw in an otherwise barren campaign, he was mercifully given the School Timetable as an alternative summertime pursuit – a labour of love (?) that proved time-consuming and infuriating in equal measure, but he tackled it with his usual good humour; Common Room are grateful for the lengths to which he went to accommodate requests.

FJB Fi Bardsley joined as Director of Drama in September 2016 from Dauntsey’s School, bringing a renewed energy and vigour to the Drama Department at Repton. With Fi at the helm, the 400 Hall has seen the largest number of productions performed for audiences in recent years and the pupils have certainly enjoyed the chance to be involved in a wide range of shows. She threw herself straight into the job, rehearsals beginning almost as soon as she arrived, for her hugely impressive Great Expectations. If there is one thing that we can say about Fi, it’s that she is extremely committed to the job! She can often be found in the 400 Hall from early in the morning well into the late evening. Whether it is finding the perfect play for the GCSE Drama class to perform, or executing some kind of wizardry with the rehearsal schedule for whatever is going on that month, Fi does nothing by halves! Probably only she would be ambitious enough to attempt to mount a full-scale musical in the Lent Term and, for anyone that was able to watch the students dazzle in Oh What A Lovely War, I am sure the hours that she, along with the Music Department, put into the show were apparent. And, indeed, I am sure that anyone who has been to a show in the past two years will agree that she has been very successful in her time here. It is with real sadness that we say goodbye to Fi all too soon, but she and husband, Garth, are heading to the States for an exciting new opportunity. She leaves with all our best wishes – and gratitude that the pupils have benefited from her talent, professionalism and kindness.

KPMC

112

Katie has been central to the English team, particularly over the last two years as Second in Department, working tirelessly to develop and encourage reading among the pupil body, sharing her own passion for young adult fiction and inspiring pupils to challenge themselves and discover new books. Katie’s pupils know that they are lucky to be taught by a teacher who really wants the best for them and will always push herself and them to aim higher: the classes she has taught owe her much for her investment; they will certainly miss her passion and the Department will find it hard to replace her humour, good will and desire to help others.

She has combined this crucial role with invaluable involvement and leadership within the Drama Department and the Theatre. Her hugely successful A2 Drama students are indebted to her passion for good Theatre, her deep care, her high academic standards, her meticulous attention to detail, her patience and, above all, her no-nonsense, practical calm – always utterly professional. In addition, Katie has been a fantastic and necessary support on all the extra-curricular productions: taking charge of the Front of House duties, sourcing costumes and props and running rehearsals, or taking time to ‘line-bash’ with the pupils. The quality of recent drama productions at Repton owes much to the tireless work she has done behind the scenes. She was even given her own lead role as Cinderella in the staff Pedants production – a great honour for a recent addition to the staff.

Richly involved in the extra-curricular life of the School, Katie has been a brilliant and much-loved tutor in The Mitre: a keen ambassador for the girls, always working to make sure high standards and expectations have been set and met. She has also been involved in sport, Duke of Edinburgh, Christian Forum and the Dreamland project. Indeed, Katie is the epitome of what it means to be an ‘all-round schoolmistress’ – the type of teacher on whom schools like Repton come to rely and should deeply value. There is no doubt Katie will make a tremendous success of her next exciting role, as a Housemistress at Benenden, and she, Alastair and Cooky the whippet leave with our love and gratitude: we will miss her greatly for the way she has embraced so many different aspects of Repton life, for her integrity and for her care and compassion for colleagues and pupils alike.

AFP

ARC Alastair Couldrey is one of those men who receives applause without ever asking for it. His unassuming arrival in 2013 belied the enormously positive impact he was to have upon the Repton community, both professionally and personally. Indeed, I defy anybody to find a person with a less-than-glowing word for him! A hugely knowledgeable and intelligent Oxford graduate, wearing said intellect very lightly, he was quick to show really smart classroom practice and, as a tutor in The Orchard under AJS’ guidance, he grew into a superb pastoral practitioner too. It was here that I heard the first fervent applause for Alastair’s efforts: every House Supper the boys whooped, hollered and cheered the mention of his name (for all the right reasons!) and I had a strange combination of guilt and glee when he agreed to follow me to New House as Resident Tutor. He was just as beloved in New House until his terribly inconsiderate departure due to marriage (how dare he!) and I must thank him personally for all the great friendship and support he and Katie gave us throughout that time.

An incredibly committed fielder in staff cricket, Alastair is just as committed to boys’ sport – particularly valued by MMC on the football coaching programme. A much-respected HoD, he has sent more and more pupils off to university to study Politics and the subject is now one of the most popular options in the Sixth Form. He has created a number of opportunities for real-life experiences – inviting MPs to come and speak, facilitating mock elections and leading trips to the Houses of Parliament and Supreme Court. Such additional experiences have led to a much greater political awareness in the pupil body and genuine engagement with the realities of life beyond the ‘Repton bubble’. He can often be found in the Department providing extra support to pupils, and it is no surprise whatsoever that Benenden snapped him up as Head of Politics for next year. Of course, beyond all that he has achieved here professionally, he has become a trusted colleague and teacher for so many who have deep affection for him. This has to do with his totally genuine, thoroughly decent character, his capacity for being

wry and witty without sharpness or sneer, and his ready willingness to put himself out for others. He has the kind of wisdom and calm one might expect from a much more seasoned individual: calm enough, indeed, to fight off a baboon on his first Repton trip to Ghana – a fundraising initiative of which he has been a mainstay ever since (presumably as some kind of bodyguard). ‘LL Cool-drey’ leaves Repton having gained a wonderful wife, a host of fine experiences and a big piece of all our hearts; suitable profit for all he has given Repton.

JDW

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CCC Dr Charlotte Campton arrived in Repton in fine style in 2014, just before she officially gained her doctorate by scrupulously investigating the importance of pubs (specifically in Renaissance English Literature, not in general). Immediately much beloved by staff and pupils alike, she fast won a reputation as an extra-miler, who would give abundantly of her time and counsel, and once everyone realised that her extraordinary smartness of brain was

SOM matched, or even exceeded, by boundless warmth of heart, the queue outside her classroom grew and grew. Teaching requires patience and tolerance, and nowhere was this more evident than in English Department meetings, where Dr Campton had to tut witheringly at juvenile teasing for her beautifully uppercrust RP (amongst other things). On that note, few will forget her star turn as the Dowager Countess of Grantham in Pedants, where she put such kindly withering to hilarious use. Charlotte did her fair share of inspiring the best in pupils via her stewardship of EPQ and assisting in Oxbridge preparation, but, of course, a person of her quality does not only offer academic gravitas. In The Mitre, she became a fabulously supportive and popular tutor, every bit a part of the #MitreFamily to which she will always belong. She brought imagination, energy and creativity to both the Extend

and Enlighten programme (which she masterminded) and to the Sixth Form Conference – a feat of organisation and pupil engagement that takes real personal commitment from its leader. Her contribution to Repton life has always been given with the greatest of willingness and conviction, as well as with plenty of joy and laughter. Those privileged enough to know them well understand that Charlotte and her husband, Paul, are both very, very accomplished cooks: she delighted the Mitre girls with her thoughtful festive gingerbread baking, and her unbelievably delicious pecan pie was once described by a colleague as simply “the best part of everything”. As such, it will come as no surprise when we say that, in a whole variety of ways, Repton life will be significantly less sweet without Charlotte, Paul and Romilly Campton.

JDW

RGDR Repton’s outgoing Head of Geography may have arrived with an Italian name and the look of a Roman centurion (without the muscles), but that’s where the Latin similarities ended for the tall, dark, handsome Durham graduate who first strode through the post-Olympic Arch in August 2012: we soon learned he’s as Welsh as rarebit, clings to his Cambrian roots with unyielding pride and starts to wilt when the temperature gets above 20°C. Riccardo de Rosa joined Repton initially for a term, but his brilliance in the classroom, allied to his work ethic, unwavering professionalism, instant rapport with Reptonians and willingness to offer assistance in any area asked of him, made him indispensable and DE65 has benefited ever since. Above all else, we have been blessed by the presence of a fundamentally great bloke; one of the very finest.

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On the pastoral front, Riccardo served Latham House magnificently for five years as Resident Tutor, combining cheery firmness with an unerring ability to create a rapport with boys in all year groups, who rightly placed him on a pedestal as a stellar Housemaster of the future. His Tutor’s Flat, at times, served as a second Sixth Form Common Room, but also as a study area for those in need of an academic prod in the right direction. In this regard, he was always selfless with his time and personal space in the interests of his students and will be remembered with great fondness by Lathamites. Riccardo added customary gusto to the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme and wore his heart on his sleeve on the football touchline, perhaps never more so than when coaching the Girls’ 1st XI to a magnificent 5-3 Cup win over Oakham, having recovered from a 0-3 deficit! He describes Anna Jowle’s free kick in this match as ‘possibly my greatest memory at Repton’, such is his love of the beautiful game. Furthermore, despite not knowing which end of the stick to pick up, he had one memorable term coaching an undefeated U14 C hockey team (goals for 31; goals against 0). His attention to detail, including scenario planning for weather ranging from snow to tropical cyclones on House Athletics

Day, is the stuff of legend and reveals the earnest, dedicated and diligent sides of his character that have been appreciated by all. Indeed, his OCD tendencies are renowned both professionally and at home, where his pride in his work and love of life on the farm led to him thoughtfully once sending LEW a before and after photograph of a bovine posterior that he had just cleaned. Few would forget such an act of unbridled generosity…

A brilliant teacher, with an amazing rapport with his students, he is rightly praised for his ‘super linguistic ability’ and ‘exceptional cultural knowledge’. Sam is also to be found energetically committing to the School in every area for which he has time and, as well as being a great sports coach himself, he has

‘unexpectedly whippet-like pace at Sunday night staff football’ – a pace he also uses to hurl himself around Repton on his Ferrari-red bike. As a Housemaster, his deep investment in the lives of his boys is matched by the greatest of warmth for all the many staff friends he brings into Latham; ‘great host, top bloke, top family’. If there is one thing that makes Sam a wonderful Housemaster and lynchpin member of the Repton community, it is the unqualified generosity of friendship that he offers. The open-hearted, dedicated and caring nature that Sam has shall, of course, echo in the hearts and minds of the pupils whose lives he has impacted over his six years here at Repton. As such, as with so many of the great staff here, who give so much to the young people they steward through this school, Sam’s valete must include some emblematic words from one of those many pupils: ‘I often hear it said that you remember certain figures from your school years, and those that you do are likely ones that either made your life in education a misery or played a formative role in shaping the person you go on to become. Happily, Mr Merlin falls categorically into the latter. From joining Latham together back in 2013, Sam was the great steadying force in the whirlwind that was my two years on Tanners Lane. I was not a 16-year-old particularly

well-built for boarding school, but thanks to his paternal guidance, I left his charge as an 18-year-old ready to take on whatever university was to throw at me. I owe him a great deal, and whilst I could not hope to properly repay the support he has given me in all I have done since we met, I wish him the very best of luck, and will be sure to follow him in his new challenge, as he has done in each and all of mine’. Au revoir, adios and auf wiedersehen, Mr Merlin. Thank you for everything.

JDW

HANNAH BOND (U6F)

Riccardo leaves to become the Head of Geography at Marlborough College, where his diligence, integrity and versatility will be huge assets to Wiltshire’s premier boarding school. Their motto, ‘Deus Dat Incrementum’, translates as ‘God gives the increase’. Riccardo’s arrival in southern climes may not quite be divine, but he will certainly augment the quality of their pastoral and academic provision: Repton’s huge loss is unquestionably their immense gain.

SOM

AMELIA ADAMS-O’RORKE (5A)

Students will remember a teacher whose commitment to his charges meant no stone was left unturned in his efforts to prepare them for their exams. To his colleagues, he exhibited truly awesome industry; though, as a Geographer, his willingness to cut down huge tracts of rainforests on a weekly basis to create teaching resources was unusual. The Ricoh and Xerox loyalty card schemes may well have been established with Riccardo in mind (two separate cards, as he regularly uses two photocopiers simultaneously). Indeed, such has been his reprographic zeal that he habitually skipped lunch to double-date Multifunctional Devices 1 and 2 in the ICT Department.

likes of Iceland, the Lake District and Costa Rica: rumours abounded that Thomas Cook were set to open a branch, complete with bureau de change, in the Geography Department, to assist him in his work as Derbyshire’s premier travel agent.

In Marquez’s novel No One Writes to the Colonel – a novel written in far more spartan Spanish than SOM’s superhumanly flowery English – the stoic Colonel of the title faces down unimaginable hardship with this phrase: ‘That’s life… Life’s the best thing that’s ever been invented’. There can be very few human beings with more enthusiasm for life’s many inventions, and one only has to be in the presence of Sam Merlin for a short while to be bowled over by the seemingly infinite interests and experiences he has enjoyed. It is just as well he has such an infectious love of life, as he has never been one to take an easy road: arriving in Repton in 2012 with an indomitable desire to run a house, and his obvious qualities seeing him given that chance within a term of being here, it was not long before Beatrix joined Felix and Stella – as if gaining fifty-something surrogate sons was not enough to take on at that particular time. Life, again, just seems to present too many wonderful opportunities for Sam to resist.

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EGMS Edward March-Shawcross joined Repton in Michaelmas 2009 from Barnard Castle School, County Durham. ‘Captain Ecology’, as Ed is endearingly known, is a fine teacher and even finer biologist. Fuelled by caffeine (the strength of which nearly hospitalised a naive HoD once) and homemade muesli, porridge or jerky, he is a proper biologistwho-can-teach, and not just a teacher of Biology. He has a genuine passion for his subject, having studied Applied Biology at Cardiff University, where he met his future wife and eventual colleague, Charly. Ed is unashamed to celebrate his love of the subject and unafraid, or perhaps unaware, that he is seen as a bit of a ‘Biology geek’. His pupils appreciate his passion and enthusiasm, and the interest he generates in living organisms and the environment. They remain to be convinced by his adamant belief that lichens are the coolest organism on the planet, but will smile and nod politely when he tries to justify this stance, or indeed whenever he goes off on a tangent about one obscure life-form or another. Whether in the classroom, or in the local stream, Ed’s infectious warmth and breadth of knowledge of real biology in the real world is second-to-none: if you ever need a piece of obscure slime mould identifying, then Ed’s your man; he is a walking classification guide. Ed is a schoolmaster of the old guard – eccentric and ‘niche’ in his own character and interests, but hugely respected by staff and pupils nonetheless. As a colleague, his generosity is renowned: Ed will always say ‘yes’ and is often one of the first to step up to help cover a lesson, to share a resource, give a talk, or to offer his time just to listen and to support others in need. In a busy school, with pressures on time and workload, it is hugely reassuring to have a friend at your side, one who is always willing to help. As Sue, one our technicians, adds, she will really miss his hugs – less his bright yellow socks.

IS As a tutor in Latham, ‘Uncle Ed’ has always walked a line in cheery firmness that has ensured it has never been a concern to leave the House in his capable hands, and the boys have always been happy to have him around. His lifelong commitment to learning and general pedagogy are evident for all to see on a daily basis. Rarely has a tutor been more willing to give up their own time in the service of a tutee who is in need of support. On the sports field, Ed has been an outstanding rugby coach, and Master i/c, during his time at the school. Having played rugby at a high level as a schoolboy, he understands the power the sport has to develop the character and values of young adults. He is knowledgeable and enthusiastic and a great number of boys have developed their interest and ability in the game thanks to him. Although most definitely a rugby man, his willingness to roll up his sleeves and volunteer with football reflects his altruistic nature and, ultimately, he is never happier than when he is outside enabling students to do things that they enjoy. Never has this been more true than in CCF: Ed’s energy and enthusiasm has proved an asset to cadets and staff alike. Having completed his Basic Frimley course, Ed undertook a number of additional courses, resulting in promotion to the rank of Captain and a post as i/c Army Section. Ed has deployed on every Field Weekend and Summer Camp and, with his commitments to the school DofE scheme, it is likely that Ed holds the record for nights out of bed among the current academic staff! Outside of the military aspect of CCF, Ed has contributed greatly to Repton’s adventurous training programme, gaining his Single Pitch Award in climbing and L1 Trail Leader course in mountain-biking. Ed was also instrumental in setting up the CCF DofE programme. Anyone who has spent

‘Epoch-ending’ is how the Headmaster described the retirement announcement of Ian Setterington. In Repton terms, the term ‘legend’, often associated with recently-retired members of staff such as Keepy and Bradders, is normally used to describe those who have served the school as man and boy for a lifetime; and yet, after ‘just’ thirteen years, it feels like this is how ‘Setters’ will be justifiably remembered.

time on DofE with him will attest to his ‘skill on the hill’. Whether micro-navigating or educating those around him on the geography of the area being walked, or its flora and fauna, he is a true man of the outdoors – just as happy talking about ice-axes and mountaineering as he is about saving the oceans or classifying seaweeds. However, it might be Ed’s willingness to give his all that can sometimes cause him to nod off at rather inopportune times – including the middle of a Department meeting, or on the sofa at tutor lunch, surrounded by the team… Above all, Ed is truly his own man. In a world of homogenised, media-driven celebrity, he is a refreshing antidote to such nonsense. He is not afraid to be himself and pursue his own interests and to step outside of the mainstream with his family. Great bloke, fine tutor, caffeineconnoisseur and lichen-lover, he will be sorely missed. We wish him, Charly, and their children, Izzy and Will, the very best as they depart on their cycling adventure to Europe, South America and beyond.

SMI

Ian joined Repton in 2005, when Design and Technology needed something of a facelift and, in this formidable, nononsense schoolmaster, Repton has enjoyed a Botox injection of unforgettable proportions. Indeed, GLH, with whom Setters has worked most closely for over a decade, eloquently states that Ian ‘is as much a part of DT as some of the bricks of the building’. Cries of ‘I like it! I like it! Make a note of it’, ‘Gooooooood!’ and ‘Tiiiiidy up!’, will resonate with most Reptonians. But, most importantly, he has been a truly inspirational colleague to teach alongside, giving sage counsel to less experienced members of staff and bringing his humour, compassion and interest in the pupils to bear every single day. One of the best compliments I have heard about Setters once again came from GLH, who told me that, on her interview day, she thought that Setters would be the kind of Head of Department she’d like to work for, and she hasn’t stopped thinking that since. Setters cut his teaching teeth at Warwick School, where he began perfecting his bellowing technique from 1982, before moving to Edinburgh and then Leeds – he taught there, you know – before arriving at Repton. On that journey, of course, has been the ever-present Shelagh, whom

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At Repton, then, he has contributed on so many levels and not just tsunami-like as he strides into the DT Department. At various times, he has run rugby, football teams – both boys and girls – and, latterly, I know that he has enjoyed learning which end of a hockey stick to hold. For eight years, he was a much valued and dedicated tutor in The Orchard, where he found his true vocation as ‘prep enforcer’, something he has continued since 2013 as a muchappreciated and committed tutor in The Garden. He has been the driving force behind the Arkwright Scholarship scheme, as a result of which many Reptonians have been exposed to, and benefited from, the finer points of the DT world. He has inspired hundreds of Reptonians, though perhaps not whilst donning a tutu in the Pedants’ unique version of ‘Swan Lake’! Setters has been an academic tutor for every year group at various stages in his Repton career and passed on wisdom, experience and, no doubt, some hometruths to countless Reptonians, for which many current Repton pupils, as well as ORs, will, I’m sure, be eternally grateful. The great thing about Setters as a tutor was the knowledge that he would take an active interest in all that the pupils did; from the

academic, through to their sport, drama, music and beyond. He has always been his tutees’ biggest supporter, remaining loyal to them even under some of the most trying circumstances. His humour, booming laughter, loyalty and dedication will be sorely missed by the whole Repton community. He has always gone the extra mile for Reptonians and combined care, warmth and wit with true northern grit and I am sure that all Reptonians will remember with affection, but also great respect, this great man with whom we have had the great fortune to work alongside. On a very personal note, I will miss the man I joined Repton with all those years ago. As a valued friend and fine colleague, the School will seem oddly incomplete without his larger-than-life presence, and in September I know why I will be looking around the Common Room thinking something is missing. Enjoy your retirement, Setters, it is richly deserved and I will be visiting often – with the sticks in the boot.

WGO

VRJ Val Jones was part of the Repton family for 27 years, first as Head of Science and teacher of Physics at Foremarke, before taking on the running of The Orchard with Tim and her lovely boys, Tom and Luke, in 1995. In 2003, then-Headmaster Graham Jones asked her if she would teach Chemistry and help him out with a ‘little job’: it turned out that the ‘little job’ he had in mind was being Housemistress of The Garden! It was here that I first met Val, when I joined her tutor team in 2005. Despite being recently-widowed, she showed me kindness and offered huge amounts of support and guidance. She taught me what it means to be a real Reptonian and showed me what it takes to be a teacher at Repton.

LUA BOBONE MENDIA DE CASTRO (U6F)

Setters met at Loughborough University. Their two children, Calum and Lucy, enjoyed very successful Repton careers themselves and I am pleased to say that Calum has recovered from his L6 History lessons to go on and become a fine History teacher himself. Setters rightly beams with pride when he talks about his family and I know that he is going to enjoy more time with them in the very near future as he heads north.

Val is hard-working, resilient and fiercely proud. As a teacher, tutor, Housemistress and Head of Department, she had high

expectations of all those around her and was never afraid to let them know if they fell short! The key thing is that, having done that, she then offered a hand to pull them up and show them the way to progress. Therefore, along with many, I have nothing but love and admiration for Val. She was instrumental in helping new staff and influenced the lives of countless Reptonians. She should feel rightly proud of all her achievements. The number of friends at Val and John’s wedding a few years ago was a clear indication of the esteem by which she is held by so many in Repton and the wider community. She retired in December 2017, but she and John intend to stay in Repton for the time being and they will still be regular visitors to school events. Indeed, it will be a struggle for all in the Science Priory on Thursdays when the

Tennis Club meet on the Repton courts! Repton Chemistry – and the wider school community – has lost a real asset and she will be missed, but we wish her, of course, a long and happy retirement.

JMJ

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JCD Sometimes, at break time, amid the clatter of coffee-cups and the chatter of staff arriving from lessons, one notices the varied and vital current of colleagues flowing through the Undercroft door. There are always those who impress with their invigorating energy and enthusiasm, but also, winding amongst the pillars, is an obvious dedication to the Repton way of life that is wholly admirable. When all of that has been tempered by one-hundred terms’ service, as it has in John Driver, it is an example to us all. John exudes a calm air of professional excellence that is utterly reassuring: JCD is taking Chemistry, umpiring cricket and leading Reptonians through the maze of university application: all is right with the world. John was appointed to teach Chemistry at Repton in September 1984 by the late David Jewell, venturing forth from his Yorkshire stronghold and travelling down the M1, the ‘corridor of uncertainty’, to do missionary work, with fellow Tyke Mike Stones, in Derbyshire, amongst the cricketing illiterates of the softer southern lands. John’s arrival at Repton came a year after Graham Parry assumed leadership of the Chemistry Department, bringing a stability and sense of purpose that chimed with John’s own talent and work ethic. Working with Graham for ten years, Val Jones for twelve years, Martin Wimbush for nineteen, Jane Snider for twenty-five, David Morris for twenty-seven, and Peter Bradburn for the thirty-year duration of his academic teaching career, to establish Chemistry’s fine academic credentials, first as a teacher and then, from 1986 to 1997 as Head of Department, has been hugely satisfying for John. Indeed, given the time required for cricket, in addition to departmental demands, in a lifetime of teaching, John must have seen nearly as much of Bradders as he has of his wife, Noreen, and their three talented daughters, Anna, Emily and Katie. During that eleven-year period as Head of Chemistry, it is a particular source of pride that the Department stood at the forefront of Repton exam success and nineteen Reptonians won places to study Chemistry at Oxford, with five in 1994 alone. In addition, five more gained a place to study Natural Sciences at Cambridge, and another five went on to read Medicine at either Oxford or Cambridge. It is a record to be proud of – and one which does not begin to reflect all those other pupils, at their many and varied levels of ability and interest, who have benefited from the teaching of this most talented man. For all of his time at Repton, John embraced that complementary duality of the true schoolmaster: a fierce commitment to academic excellence and a deep understanding of the importance of extra-curricular activities. John has always drawn strength from working as part of a team, building successes based on individual responsibility and a shared sense of purpose, and he brought this to the post of Director of Studies, when he was appointed by Graham Jones in September 1997, working with Heads of Department whose ability and drive he really appreciated. In 2004, Robert Holroyd created a new role for John as Director of University Entrance and it is in this incarnation that he has assumed a degree of omniscience that has inspired such confidence in generations of Reptonians, their parents and certainly in his grateful colleagues. I know at first-hand, as a Housemaster, how valuable it was to be able to direct to John any pupil who nurtured what seemed to me like remarkably optimistic expectations and to have him return full of enthusiasm for an ambitious but appropriate course. It was hard to argue with the formidable array of statistics John was able to employ, still more so with the implacable common sense that was his stock-in-trade.

1557, he might have suggested that the way to ensure continued prosperity, after a basic grounding in Latin, Logic and Rhetoric, was a four year course at Aston, including a year’s work-placement with a local wool merchant or guildhall, that returned a 94% chance of long-term employment! The university process can be a time of great concern, even anxiety, for many and to have John’s wise guidance shaping such important choices has been a boon for all involved. To misappropriate Jane Austen’s Mr Knightley: ‘I never hear better sense from anyone than John Driver’. It would be very wrong, however, to imagine John simply as some devoted but detached academic. He was a house tutor; a member of the Careers Department; he ran the old JCR when it was in the High St, where St Wystan’s Nursery now stands; and he was Master i/c Rugby. But even his obdurate, Yorkshire-hewn nature comes close to sentiment when he speaks of Cricket; of the enjoyment twenty-seven years of running the 2nd XI brought him, of the entertaining and skilful players he has coached and of the privilege of playing on The Square in the height of summer. His knee might be regretting a rather too emphatic delivery stride now – and there is no truth in the rumour that the true appeal of cricket was to his birthplace’s natural parsimony in that his lab coat could double as an umpire’s for no extra cost – but he is a man motivated by a genuine love of the game. In recent years, he has followed the Frank Sinatra retirement scheme, hinting at an exit but always being persuaded to return by a school that could not countenance his knowledge and skills disappearing through the Arch. Now, he has finally decided to eschew the delights of predicted grades and standard offers, but might, perhaps, be found on a sunny bench near The Square from time to time in summers to come. It has been Repton’s good fortune to have been so well-served by such a dedicated man – and mine to have taught with John for twenty-five years: a proper schoolmaster, a true gentleman and a good friend.

JGG OLIVIA MITCHELL (U6A)

John instituted a comprehensive lecture series on Higher Education and future employment for pupils and parents, transforming the preparation for the bewildering array of admissions tests, references and interviews necessary for Oxbridge and medical, dental and veterinary courses. His statistical analysis of UCAS applications and a searching review of Reptonians’ university choices led him to deliver a rigorous and objective assessment of the many opportunities that lie in front of our pupils beyond the Arch. If a sprightly, more hirsute Driver had advised the heirs to the Sir John Port Etwall estate in

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