Sherborne News - Michaelmas Term 2023

SHERBORNE NEWS Michaelmas 2023 ISSUE 44

WELCOME FROM HEAD BOY HECTOR KENNERLEY (U6g)

To be appointed as Head of School is not just an achievement, but also a duty of care which I am thoroughly enjoying. The boys have benefitted from using the state-of-the-art facilities in the new, highly anticipated Sports Centre. It is great to see Inter-House sports competitions with such passion from both the talented players and the encouraging support from all the boys.

The Prefect team are working hard to improve integration between the years and develop Sherborne’s stunning and friendly reputation. The Heads of Houses have provided the opportunity for boys to compete against each other in House competitions whilst the School Prefects are constantly working on feedback from the growing pupil voice committees. It has been a pleasure working with joint Head of School Alex Upton (U6e) and the rest of the Prefect team, and I believe we are in an excellent place to continue to make the School the best it can be.

My last Michaelmas Term has been very busy; however, I look back and there is not a single moment I have not enjoyed. It has gone by in a flash, and I am grateful to the wonderful community that I am a part of. In addition to their hard work, the boys must thank all their teachers and the staff for their support this term. It has been a successful and busy term and I wish everyone a well-deserved Christmas break and a happy New Year.

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AC A D EM I C E N R IC H M ENT

TOP OF THE BENCH CHEMISTRY COMPETITION After an early start, biscuits for breakfast, and a long drive around Southampton, we finally arrived in Portsmouth. After a brief walk under the shadow of the soaring Spinnaker tower, graffitied bridges and even a glimpse of HMS Warrior’s gleaming hull, we arrived at Portsmouth Grammar School, the venue for this competition. Little introduction was given, we were only forewarned that it would be a demanding competition. This soon proved to be true!

We were immediately placed under extreme time pressure, with multiple simultaneous experiments including investigating a mystery gas inside a balloon by drop rate, determining the activation energy of methyl violet, reconstructing atomic structures with ping pong balls, and hypothesising about the science behind instant relighting candles.

SENIOR MATHEMATICAL CHALLENGE

Boys from the Fourth, Fifth and Sixth Form took part in the Senior Mathematical Challenge in October. The competition tests boys on their mathematical methods, logic, and problem-solving ability, with the added challenge of not having a calculator! The boys achieved nine gold, 28 silver and 52 bronze awards.

After a welcome pause for lunch, we finished graphing and concluding our results, completing the quiz in the dying moments.

This was followed by an intriguing lecture, in which the highlight was an experiment involving a banana immersed in liquid nitrogen, which became so hard it was used as a hammer! Although this competition was undoubtably challenging, the team performed and followed instructions really well under pressure, and this was reflected in our win in the experimental category, an achievement which my teammates should be very proud of.

I am optimistic that the team will have a very good chance of victory next year!

Special mentions go to Joonsang Hyun (L6f), Charlie Sclater (L6m), Rufus Watson (L6a), Toby Bemand (U6a), Daniel Duan (U6e), Leo Li (U6a), Mike Song (U6e), Max Sutherland (U6m) and Macros Yiu (U6m), who achieved the Gold awards, and have qualified for the next round of the Kangaroo Challenge. Well done to all involved.

The Intermediate Mathematical Challenge for the lower school will take place in the Lent Term.

Why not try a question from this year’s challenge below?!

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Johnny Moesel (5c)

Rebecca Fraser Head of Maths

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The team comprised Johnny Moesel (5c) (Captain and author of the above), Ian Liu (4d), Kevin Geng (3c) and Sebastian Willcox (3b).

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CRACKING THE CODE: A FUN-FILLED EDUCATIONAL JOURNEY INTO DNA The Sherborne School Biology Department once again hosted the vibrant educational event named Cracking the Code, where young students from different Prep Schools delved into the fascinating world of biology, exploring the intricate mysteries of DNA. The event aimed to spark curiosity and ignite a passion for science among the participants, making learning an engaging and enjoyable experience.

It began with an interactive session where students were introduced to the fundamentals of DNA, the building blocks of life. Through lively discussions and captivating visuals, the young minds were transported into the microscopic realm of genetics.

The students quickly became enthralled by the idea that within each living organism lies a code, a blueprint that dictates its unique characteristics.

The highlight of the event was the hands-on experiment where the students got to extract DNA from strawberries. By carefully following the step-bystep instructions, combining household items to witness the magic of DNA extraction. It was wonderful to see the young scientists marvel at the strands of DNA they held in their hands.

The experiment not only provided a tangible understanding of DNA but also fostered teamwork and collaboration among the students. As they worked together to unlock the genetic secrets hidden within the strawberries, students interacted brilliantly with those from other schools, creating a great sense of camaraderie.

Cracking the Code proved to be a dynamic and enjoyable educational experience, allowing these Prep School students to unravel the mysteries of DNA in a hands-on and interactive manner. By combining knowledge with fun, the event certainly seemed to succeed in fostering a passion for biology and instilling a sense of wonder in the young minds that participated.

As always, a huge thanks to the Biology Department for making this worthwhile event possible.

Jon-Paul Manning Head of Biololgy

GEOGRAPHY SOCIETY AND GCSE FIELDWORK This term has seen the relaunch of the Geography Society, with the theme of Facts that Make you Think…. For example, did you know that ten of the fastest growing economies (measured by Real GDP) are located in Sub-Saharan Africa? Or that the Dominican Republic is the most dangerous place to drive (measured by road deaths per 100,000 inhabitants). Boys from across the year groups have attended these discussions groups, drawing upon their geographical knowledge to make sense of these facts. If you want to know more, look out for the Geog Soc Journal, the Geography Department’s half termly newsletter, coming to an inbox near you soon.

Earlier in the term the Fifth Form Geographers visited Southampton to undertake their GCSE fieldwork. Blessed with some excellent weather, the cohort was able to carry out their investigation of changing urban areas in the historic centre of the city. Meanwhile, Lower Sixth and Upper Sixth Geographers used the opportunity over the summer to submit their entry to this year’s Young Geographer of the Year competition, the Royal Geographical Society’s premiere competition for geography students. The competition required entrants to set out their ‘blue print for the planet’. Oliver Chappell (L6d) produced a particularly well thought through entry covering issues as wide ranging as reducing water consumption in the fashion industry, road energy, harvesting and methane capture. All in all, another exciting term in the Geography Department. Well done to all the boys who got involved.

Christopher Foyle Head of Geography

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! ! ! LANGUAGE ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! TRIPS ! ! ! AT ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! !

OCTOBER HALF TERM ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! !! !! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! !! ! ! ! ! !! ! !! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! group enjoyed a trip to the caves the capital of European space During October half term ! ! pupils ! !of! Spanish ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! French ! ! !exploration ! ! !the ! at! Nerja and! the! beach town ! of ! ! to discover and ! !!enjoyed ! to ! ! ! in the ! ! cosmos. ! For! ! many ! ! the !! !highlight ! ! ! to ! ! !trips ! ! Granada ! ! ! ! ! ! Almuñecar ! ! ! before! returning !! !

Granada for four days of of the trip was an afternoon spent south of Spain and to Toulouse ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! the ! southwest!of France. ! ! ! the historic ! city! of ! language ! ! ! activities and ! ! ! ! ! lessons, exploring in ! ! ! ! ! Carcassonne ! ! ! !autumn ! !visits to the! wonderful historic ! in the warm ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! of !18 boys ! and !three ! sunshine. ! ! ! ! ! ! ! cultural ! ! sites ! that the !city ! and A group ! ! on Toulouse ! ! for ! ! ! ! ! ! !offers. Most ! impressive ! ! ! was the ! ! ! staff descended ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! the 2023 Sherborne ! ! ! ! was ! with ! local ! ! !visit to!the Alhambra ! ! Palace !and! !

Accommodation French! trip. ! ! ! !! the insight it gave the pupils into families dotted around the city.

Mornings were the time for

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the medieval period of Spanish As a result, as well as enjoying an French lessons with a local history when the peninsula was enriching immersive linguistic language school, while part of various Islamic empires, experience, by the end of the trip afternoons were filled with leaving behind stunning the boys were dab hands at various trips. We started by examples of Islamic architecture. negotiating the Toulouse public exploring the rich heritage of the A visit to the Science Museum of bus network. city of Toulouse with a visit to the Andalucía gave them a chance to Capitole building where the ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! stay in the good books of the The Spanish trip saw pupils topics of art history and politics ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

Science Department while a final staying with host families for an were explored (in French, of ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! visit to the largest shopping mall immersion experience in the course). The following afternoon ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! in Spain ticked the retail therapy historic city of Granada for the it was time for a Scientific ! adventure ! !with a trip ! to the Cité! ! !second ! ! year running. ! ! ! ! ! ! ! box.

After ! ! de l’Espace ! ! ! – where ! ! ! than ! ! settling in with ! their ! ! hosts, ! the ! ! ! ! ! better

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Philip Morrow Deputy Head of Modern Foreign Languages

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THE CLASSICS TRIP TO ROME SCHOOL TRIPS RARELY START WITH A GLASS OF CHAMPAGNE ON THE PLANE, BUT IT TURNS OUT THAT IT IS WHO YOU KNOW IN LIFE THAT MATTERS.

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Forum, where we immersed From our base a stone’s throw exploration of various episodes ourselves in the political intrigue from the Vatican, Saturday began of Roman history via the frescoes for which Rome is so famous, with a walk along the Tiber to the in the Great Hall. In the before climbing the Palatine Hill Ara Pacis, the reconstructed altar afternoon, ! ! !we lost ! ourselves ! !in ! ! and exploring the luxury of the to peace – that is, military the!fascinating! Trajan’s Market, ! ! ! ! emperors’ palaces. After an conquest – housed within a the first shopping centre in ! a !visit to! the ! ! ! interesting detour into the church beautifully modern, glistening history,! before ! ! Boarium, ! the site! of the! ! of San Clemente and its ancient glass and travertine shell. The Forum crypt, and a welcome meal in a boys were able to examine up temples of Portunus ! ! ! and ! ! back street restaurant, we were close the numerous sculptures Hercules. A sudden and ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ready for the main event: that glorify Augustus and Rome. fortuitous downpour ushered us ! into ! the nearby ! ! di Santa ! !

“Maximus Decimus Meridius, Skirting the sadly decrepit, weedBasilica commander of the armies of the encrusted drum of the ancient Maria in Cosmedin, where we north, general of the Felix legions mausoleum of Augustus, we found in the crypt the and loyal servant to the true headed off on our tourist trail, foundations of the great altar of emperor, Marcus Aurelius, father meandering through the vibrant Hercules. to a murdered son, husband to a Piazza di Spagna and pushing murdered wife…” and out we through the crowds, tossing coins After a brief stop to admire the stepped into the Colosseum, or into the Trevi Fountain towards Circus Maximus, our final day at least ! ! ! the Pantheon, ! where ! !we ! ! we ! stretched ! ! the! sinews ! ! ! took us ! to the Baths of Caracalla, of our necks over the crowds, and marvelled at the breath-taking the ruins of the third-century ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! imagined its fascinating and gory scale and architectural innovation leisure complex and the largest ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !!<-'!%6/'/)%! history. Are you not entertained? of the interior with its dome and and most impressive bathing ! ! ! oculus. ! !Having !enjoyed ! ! ! ! We ! certainly ! ! were,! before ! ! ! ! ! we some complex in the city of Rome, our staggered back to Ristorante la relative peace in the cafés of the visit enlivened by virtual reality Vittoria and our hotel.

Piazza Navona, we headed for headsets. En route to the airport, the site of the assassination of we visited Ostia Antica, where we Could it get any better…? The Julius Caesar, until very recently a explored, scattered among the Capitoline Museums are home to cat sanctuary, at Largo di Torre umbrella pines, ! ! a splendid ! ! ! ! one of the finest collections of art Argentina. Our spirits amphitheatre and the remains of in Rome, hall after spectacular invigorated at a local pizza schools, baths, temples and hall filled with stunning ancient pitstop, our journey home took latrines, as well as unusually wellsculptures and antiquities. The us past the Theatre of Marcellus preserved insulae. ! !bronze ! She-wolf and ! the! Dying ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! and onto Tiber Island. courtesy of! BA !on Gaul ! ! were! popular,! as was! the ! ! ! !* ! ! * !Champagne *! * Cruising through the streets in the return?

Of course. sheer size of the remains of the ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! blacked-out Mercedes’, Sunday’s !! !Heath ! ! ! / ! colossal ! ! !statue! of Constantine, ! ! ! !! ! !! Stephen ! ! ! !! itinerary began at the Roman but one of my highlights was our Head of Classics

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COMPUTER SCIENCE

In Computer Science, boys have been busy in and out of the classroom. The Robotics Club are busy designing a new robot in the hope to better their Rookie Award in the national competition from last year. Harry Nicholson (4f) has stepped up to the gargantuan task of getting other boys to work hard as Project Manager and has impressed Dr Wild with his motivational skills. The team comprises boys who are combining skills in engineering design, mathematics, electronics, programming and strategy and tactics, all carefully project managed by Harry.

Third, Fourth, Fifth and Lower Sixth classes took part in the national Bebras Challenge, a test of algorithmic thinking ability.

Over 408,000 students took part across the UK and our boys got some great results.

The “Best in School” Awards in each of the categories go to: • Juniors: Josh Spolton (3m) scored a staggering 173 out of 175.

• Seniors: Joe Zhou (4e) with 167 • Elite: Thomas O’Sullivan (L6b) with 145 In total 43 boys achieved a Distinction grade being in the top 10% nationally and they will be invited to the Oxford University Computing Challenge in February.

David Wild Head of Computer Science

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CAREERS & HIGHER EDUCATION There are three key areas of focus of Sixth Form life in the Michaelmas Term.

The first lies in supporting the Upper Sixth boys with their applications to a whole range of Post-18 destinations.

Many of the boys apply through UCAS to study at a range of UK based institutions. Several boys look to join other Shirburnians at various exciting global locations. Some boys apply for conservatoires and drama schools. Others apply for competitive degree apprenticeship courses.

Many choose to take a gap year and a break from fulltime education. The Careers and Pathways Team seek to support our boys and their families with all of these potential pathways.

The second area of focus lies in welcoming the new Lower Sixth boys to the Sixth Form and helping them explore and prepare for potential applications in the year ahead.

We create a culture in which the boys are informed about a whole range of possible global outcomes and give them the time and space to discuss their own potential destinations with each other, their Tutors, their Housemasters, their parents and the Careers and Pathways Team.

Lastly, the third, and arguably most important, area of focus is on helping the boys develop in an holistic sense.

In order to help the boys progress in the three areas above, we provide a wide range of events and experiences to help stimulate thought and cultivate vital skills.

We want our boys to be well prepared for life after Sherborne. We want them to go on to make a positive difference to the world. Ultimately, we want them to be happy, knowing themselves and knowing that the life they live is a good one. Achieving these goals is at the heart of everything we do.

Alex Boyd-Williams Deputy Head (Sixth Form)

A NEW ACADEMIC YEAR AND NEW COHORT OF BOYS PRESENTS A HOST OF FRESH MUSICAL OPPORTUNITIES. FROM OUR NEW GROUP OF DEDICATED MUSIC SCHOLARS, THROUGH TO BOYS TAKING UP INSTRUMENTS FOR THE FIRST TIME, THE FIRST FEW WEEKS IN SEPTEMBER ARE AN EXCITING AND BUSY TIME IN THE MUSIC SCHOOL.

In the increasingly active life of the Shirburnian, Music takes place in dedicated slots called Q-Time, which take place between 1.30-2.30pm each weekday, with further rehearsal slots late into the evening after completing their Hall, right through to 10.00pm. Such a schedule requires a level of enthusiasm and passion for Music that Shirburnians exhibit on a daily basis. The Music School is therefore a busy and joyous place to be, by day or night.

The Friday Lunchtime Recital series in Cheap Street Church continues to enjoy high levels of support from members of the community, with audiences regularly reaching over 100 each week. Each Recital has a different theme, lasting around 35-40 minutes, beginning with the ever loved (and feared!) Meet the Music Staff and continuing with Instrumental and Vocal soloists I (22 September), Woodwind I (29 September), Strings (6 October), Instrumental and Vocal soloists II (13 October), Pianists (3 November), Brass (10 November), Instrumental and Vocal soloists III (17 November) and Woodwind II (24 November). The final concert of the Michaelmas term (1 December), called the ‘Mince Pies’ Recital (and for some reason our most popular, possibly to do with the offer of a mince pie!), was an enormous success, featuring festive performances from our

Chamber Music ensembles, including Symphonic Strings, Violin Quartet, Woodwind Quartet, Brass Band, Brass Quintet, and Barbershop/Close Harmony.

Rock and pop music (colloquially named the ‘RocSoc’) continues to enjoy a high profile amongst the boys and is run jointly with Sherborne Girls. A Joint Schools’ Unplugged event (1 November) featured members of the Third and Fourth Forms for the first time, and showcased high quality group and solo performances, including a highly convincing Elton John song from Hector Sheldrick Sch.Mus (3m), looping pedal performance from Alex Biddulph (L6d), and guitar and voice performance from Cassius Hammick (U6m). A second ‘amplified’ event, ‘RocSoc Live’ took place on a Saturday evening in the BSR (25 November) and featured several bands from the Lower and Upper Sixth Forms, performing ‘sets’ of rock and pop songs to their peers.

Organ music has grown over the past few years, and the number of student organists has steadily increased. The Winter Organ Recital took place in the School Chapel, featuring both the Hauptwerk and neo-classical Blank organs. Performances were heard from Freddie Senior Sch.Mus (L6g), Archie Spenlove-Brown Sch.Mus (5f),

Frazer Fielding Sch.Mus (3f), Aloysius Cath (L6a) and were joined by our Choral Scholar and Organ Scholar in an evening of music by J S Bach, C H Trevor, George Thalben-Ball, and others.

The Sherborne Schools’ Symphony Orchestra, run collaboratively with participation from several local schools, continues to flourish, with an Open Rehearsal taking place on 12 November to a large number of parents. These Open Rehearsal style events are proving immensely popular with parents and offer a special behind-the-scenes look at what an orchestral rehearsal looks and sounds like when four conductors are at the helm! The afternoon concluded with the large Wind Band, led by Clare Jackson, featuring special guest conductor Thomas Arbon Valderrama Sch.Mus (U6e), who led the ensemble through ‘Creed’ expertly. The Sinfonia Orchestra, which rehearses simultaneously to the Symphony Orchestra, also held an Open Rehearsal and Afternoon Tea event during the last week of term (5 December).

This was a fantastic experience for the boys involved, and was a good exhibition of the Sinfonia’s capabilities and orchestral prowess, featuring the music of Sibelius and Tchaikovsky.

This year sees eight boys preparing for their ATCL diplomas. A Diploma Recital Evening, taking place on 14 November, saw Ian Liu Sch.Mus (4d) perform his 35-minute programme on the flute to an enraptured audience.

Performances were also heard from Archie Gibbons Sch.Mus (5f) (trumpet), Alex O’Sullivan Exh.Mus (L6d) (drum kit), Gareth Kwong Exh.Mus (U6e) (piano) and Byron Yang Sch.Mus (U6d) (piano). Ian has now taken his ATCL diploma examination (results pending), with the remainder of the boys performing due to take their exams in the Lent Term.

Choral music at Sherborne remains an integral part of Shirburnians experience of Music, whether it be through participating in the 106-strong TTBB Choir that sings two services per week in the Abbey,

or through hearty congregational singing, which is practised by the entire School each half term as ‘Congo’ in the Abbey. It has been remarked that the strength and volume of congregational singing by the boys far surpasses that of their peers elsewhere, and this continues to be a major part of all Shirburnians musical experience at the School. At the highest level is the Chamber Choir, who this term sung an Evensong at Salisbury Cathedral (12 November), jointly with the Madrigal Society of Sherborne Girls. It was a magnificent occasion, and one that ex-Salisbury Cathedral boys who are now Music Scholars at Sherborne particularly enjoyed.

The annual Halliday Cup Music Competition for pianists took place on 26 November, adjudicated by pianist and composer, Paul Drayton. The competition was a great success

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and the level of piano playing exceptional. The winner of the Junior Class was Benji Rimington Sch.Mus (4c) with Debussy’s Little Shepherd. The Open Class was won by Toby Bemand (U6a) with Rachmaninoff’s Prelude in C sharp minor, and the overall winner and recipient of the Halliday Cup was Ian Liu with a scintillating performance of Prokofiev’s Sonata No.3. This is Ian’s second success in the Halliday Competition, having won the cup in the previous year.

A staple in the Music Diary is the annual Festive Shopping Day, which takes place in the Town during the first Sunday of December. The Brass Band, Brass Quintet, Woodwind Quartet and Barbershop/Close Harmony, all performed a selection of festive musical items on the public stage to festive shoppers, whilst being simultaneously broadcast on local radio.

On the final Monday of term, there was a Music and Readings for Christmas service in the Chapel, sung by the Chamber Choir. This highlighted music by Mathias, Joubert and Darke, and was complemented with several secular and religious readings, as well a marvellous Once in Royal David’s City solo from George Brookes (3g). The power and beauty of the Chamber Choir’s voices, coupled with the reflective atmosphere and setting was quite something to behold.

The highlight of any Michaelmas Term is of course the traditional end of term Carol Service held in Sherborne Abbey. In fact, this year saw not one, but two Carol Services, taking place on the final Friday and Saturday of the term, featuring a feast of hymns and carols from the likes of Praetorius, Hadley, and Gardner. The full 106-strong Choir and Chamber Choir sung, alongside brass accompanied Carols, delighting the congregation and acting as a fitting end to a busy musical term for the boys.

Dan Marks Deputy Director of Music

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M I C H AE L MA S TER M I NT R O D UC E D TW O LA RG E C LA S S E S O F N EW A R TIS TS TO S H ER B OR N E. G E TT ING STU C K I N F R O M T HE O FF, THI RD FO RM PU P I LS H AD FU N I N T HE IR AR T LE S S ON S AS T HEY BU SIED TH E M S ELV ES CR EAT IN G S CR U M P TIO U S SC UL PTU R ES I N R E S P O NS E TO THEIR THEME O F ‘ FAV O URI TE P LATE OF FOOD’ .

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F O U R TH FO R M HA D A FU N S U N DAY PH O TO GRA PH Y T RI P T O BO TH TH E H AYN ES MOT OR MU S E U M AN D TH E FL EE T A IR A R M M US E U M TO G ATH ER S OU R CE M AT E R IA L F OR T H EI R G CS E T H E M E ‘ M AN -M AD E ’.

D E S P I TE AT R O CIOU S W E AT H E R THE B OY S M ADE TH E MO ST OF TH E DAY B Y C OLLATIN G PLE N TY O F M ATE R I A L T O IN F ORM TH E I R PR O J E CT S G O ING FO R WAR D. T HE Y AL S O E N J OY ED TH E OB L I GATO RY M AC CI E’S S TO POFF F OR B R U N C H – A LWAY S A WIN W I T H T H E B OYS! R E TU R NI N G T O SC HOOL, P UP I LS HAV E B E E N B U S Y C R EATIN G PH OT O C OL LA G ES I N R E SP ON SE TO TH E P OP AR TIST J A M ES R O SE NQ UI S T. T HES E E x CI TI N G CO M PO S I T I O NS HAVE TH EN G ON E O N T O BE U SED A S TH E B AS I S F O R TH E I R F INA L O UT C OM E D R AWN AN D PA I N T E D R E S P O N SES . A S TR ON G S TA R T T O T H E I R G CS E F ROM AN E x CI TI N G Y E AR GR OU P.

OUR LOWER SIxTH C BUSY BUILDIN NECESSARY SKILLS A LEVEL COURSEW INVITED THE ARTIS TO DELIVER WORK PUPILS ExPLORE CO CREATIVE THINK DRAWING AND PH THIS ExCITING A WORKSHOP LED O WORKSHOP WHERE LOWER SIxTH PUP COMPOSITION IN MASSIVE FLOOR T LIFE SET UP CRE MARVELLOUS T ANNIE POWELL ExPLORE THE N (TO THEM) OF

THE SUNDAY WO MRS DRAKE AND GI BOYS LEARNING COLOURS USIN CERULEAN BLUE AN AND PAINT WITH LEVEL OF SOPHISTIC RESPONDED TO TH INCREDIBLY WELL APPLYING THESE N TO PRODUCE SO RESPONSES. A S MUST BE GIVEN TO PROVIDING THESE W TO GINNY FOR HER TO BLEARY-EYE SUNDAY M

CLASS HAVE BEEN G UPON THE TO TACKLE THEIR WORK UNIT. WE ST GINNY MASON KSHOPS TO HELP OMPOSITION AND KING THROUGH HOTOCOLLAGE. AND ENGAGING ONTO A FURTHER FIFTH FORM AND PILS USED THEIR NSPIRED BY THE TO CEILING STILL EATED BY OUR TECHNICIAN TO BEGIN TO NEW MEDIUM OIL PAINTS.

RKSHOP LED BY NNY MASON SAW G HOW TO MIx NG MAGENTA, D LEMON YELLOW OILS TO A HIGH CATION. THE BOYS HESE WORKSHOPS AND HAVE BEEN EWFOUND SKILLS OME STUNNING PECIAL THANKS O MRS DRAKE FOR WORKSHOPS, AND ExPERT DELIVERY D BOYS ON A ORNING!

CDM CR EAT I V E D I G I TA L M EDI A

This term the boys have been taking part in exciting production projects. The Upper Sixth have designed, curated and produced their own game called SS Hot Ones, a general knowledge and quiz show with spicy penalties for incorrect answers! They have been using the equipment in the Oliver Holt Gallery, where we have created a television studio space with professional grade production equipment, to also make a talk show and a version of Family Feud.

The Lower Sixth are embarking on their short film projects and have come up with a range of genres from a crime drama to a coming-ofage film, to a historical piece of single camera action, utilising various locations in and around Sherborne. They are scripting, planning, storyboarding and completing all of the preproduction disciplines as used in the industry, as well as coming up with their original storylines, which is no mean feat in itself.

Matt Bone Director of Art

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DR AM A THE G R EE N H O U SE PL AY – CA NC E LLE D B Y RO BE RT GR UN WALD Despite some initial confusion, The Green House play 2023 was not cancelled - a relief for all involved! What ensued was a magnificent performance featuring pupils from various years Upper Sixth, Lower Sixth, and a handful of Fourth Formers. I had the privilege of being a part of this production. Despite the time crunch, with less than a month to put it all together, it was an immensely enjoyable experience and undeniably worth the hard work.

The opening night commenced with a surprising transformation from the 1st xV Rugby Captain, Edward Elwell (U6c), into an entirely unfamiliar character.

While Edward may initially appear as the archetypal rugby player, it was truly fascinating to witness how in touch he was with his feminine side in the role of Constance Figg. Henry Cannon (U6c), portraying Betty Wilkes, mirrored Edward’s feminine energy splendidly.

were stellar, and the hearty laughter from the audience demonstrated that their improvisational skills were hitting all the right notes. This consistently maintained comedic atmosphere infused the play with an infectious energy and joy. The sense of mirth and the comedic element never waned, and the introduction of Sargent Donovan (played by Tom Alers-Hankey (U6c)) at the end of the play further reinforced the humour.

As the play unfolded, we were introduced to a gangster determined to reclaim his money, a character who brought a palpable tension to the stage, menacing actors and commandeering the set. One of my favourite moments came when George (played by Will Newell (U6c)) and Fred Bennet (played by Alfie Reynolds (U6c)) were forced to abandon their scripted lines and “wing it” on the spot. Their performances

While the acting was undeniably superb, none of it would have been possible without the brilliant direction of Apprentice Creative Venue Technician Beth Yates. Special recognition is also owed to Theatre Manager Mr Donnelly for crafting such outstanding props. The play owes much of its success to these two individuals.

Fergus O’Connell (4c)

THE AT R E T R I P R E V IE W M ETA MO R P H O SI S With a coach filled to the brim with 30 thrilled drama enthusiasts and scholars, we embarked on a journey to the Mayflower Theatre in Southampton, eagerly anticipating Frantic Assembly’s fresh take on Metamorphosis.

The experience proved invaluable, particularly for our Fourth and Fifth Form pupils, who are currently immersing themselves in the study of another of Frantic Assembly’s productions. They are dissecting the integration of physical theatre in Metamorphosis and exploring the distinct styles and techniques characteristic of this remarkable company.

Frantic Assembly’s unconventional yet unmistakable style, blending non-naturalistic performance with traces of naturalism, took centre stage. It eloquently demonstrated how seamlessly this approach can be woven into the fabric of a dramatic piece. Our attention was rapt as Gregor Samsa, a diligent people-pleaser, underwent a bewildering transformation into an ambiguous insect, emerging as the linchpin of the narrative.

Following an essential intermission for ice cream, we resumed our seats, eager to witness the ripple effects on his family and his life. The performance was executed with finesse, a treasure trove of practical skills for our pupils to absorb and apply. The inaugural theatre outing of the year proved to be a standout choice, a nod to Head of Drama Mrs Clayton’s impeccable planning and her vision for the dramatic arts.

We extend our heartfelt thanks for a splendid day out and look forward to a year teeming with more theatrical encounters.

Siegfred Johnsen (L6a)

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AB B E Y LAN D S H O US E P L AY – CON F US I O N S Abbeylands performed two excerpts from Alan Ayckbourn’s Confusions, Between Mouthfuls and Gosforth’s Fete.

In the two previous House plays under the directorship of English Teacher Mr Robinson we have been awed in a courtroom of A Few Good Men and cowered in the waiting room of Incident at Vichy.

In stark contrast to these somewhat sombre pieces, Abbeylands this year produced two significantly more lighthearted comedic acts. Between Mouthfuls, a restaurant-set dramedy where two seemingly unrelated couples’ romantic evenings and relationships are comedically ruined by a series of past events. Chaos follows, with plates thrown, relationships ruined and an irritated waiter (not to mention a very messy stage to clear for the crew).

We then moved on to Gosforth’s Fete another dramedy set in Publandlord Gosforth’s (Yasha Malikov (U6f)) charity fete in aid of the village hall. However, a combination of turbulent weather, malfunctioning microphones and an incident between Gosforth and a tea lady (Lucas Tavares (L6f)), proves to be a recipe for disaster. Despite the best efforts of Gosforth and the Reverend (Ollie Thompson (U6f)),

chaos ensues resulting in broken engagements, a drunk scoutmaster (Charlie Ricketts (U6f)) and an electrocuted Politician (Milo Fairman (5f)).

We must thank English Teacher Mr Robinson for his brilliant direction (and incredible patience) and we are indebted to the Drama Department, namely Theatre Manager Mr Donnelly and Apprentice Creative Venue Technician Beth Yates for supporting us throughout the production and implementing incredible pyrotechnics.

Caspar Bridge (U6f)

THI R D & F OU RTH FO RM DR A M A C L U B This term has been eventful for the Third Form Drama Club, who have not only grown in confidence but also in dramatic ability, thanks to the guidance of the Scholars. They commenced their journey by delving into various improvisation skills, which included honing their abilities in listening, thinking on their feet, and being aware of fellow actors on stage. Games such as Strange Shop and Park Bench became instant favourites, showcasing their progress.

More recently, the group has delved into the works of Steven Berkoff, embracing his gritty, exaggerated, and sensory performance style.

They are learning the significance of physical expression alongside vocal delivery. A standout moment highlighting their hard work was a spectacularly terrifying interpretation of a morning routine (rest assured, I have never been more scared of people brushing their teeth!). Throughout Michaelmas, they have

broadened their theatrical knowledge, expanding their repertoire of performance devices. These newfound skills are expected to be incorporated into future performances as they strive for continual improvement and development.

Looking ahead to the Lent Term, the Third Form Drama Club will persist, offering ongoing opportunities for growth. Additionally, the Department is excited to introduce a new Musical Theatre Club on Monday afternoons, welcoming participants from all year groups.

Freddie Fineman (L6e)

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J O I NT S C H OO L S’ P R OD U C TIO N L EG A LLY B L ON D E The Joint Schools’ Production of Legally Blonde took place towards the end of term. The production proved to be an absolute delight, seamlessly blending humour, heartwarming moments, and a keen understanding of today’s multigenerational issues. The cast’s collective talent and dedication were evident throughout the performance, making it impossible for the audience not to have a thoroughly enjoyable time.

A heartfelt congratulations for all the boys involved in the production. Their dedication and passion were palpable, and the School can take pride in the exceptional talents displayed on stage. The Joint Schools’ Production was a resounding success, leaving the audience thoroughly entertained and undoubtedly proud of the remarkable performances showcased by the entire cast.

Victoria Clayton Head of Drama

C O- C U RR I C U LA R N E WS D UK E O F ED I NB UR G H ’S AWA R D Another year of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award has kicked off at Sherborne with 160 new participants signed up across the three award levels: Gold, Silver and Bronze. Starting the year off strong we had our 13 new Gold Canoeing participants complete both their Practice and Qualifying Expedition this term. Along with the Gold participants from Sherborne Girls, the groups navigated the River Thames over the first Exeat weekend, in preparation for their Qualifying Expedition which took place in Scotland during the Half Term Break.

Paddling 100km from Fort William to Inverness, the groups faced cold, but fairly favourable conditions allowing them to paddle up to 35km a day along The Great Glen Way, taking in the magnificent Scottish scenery and wild camping along the way.

The Bronze, Silver and Gold Walking participants look forward to their expeditions in the upcoming terms, and in the meantime are getting on with completing the other sections of their awards.

This term we congratulate the six boys who finished their Bronze award and Charlie Miller (5d) and Myles Boardman-Hirst (L6e) who finished their Silver award this term.

Well done to Thomas Guy (e23), Marcus Hinde (f23), Oscar Revell (U6c) and Cassius Hammick (U6m) for completing their Gold Award this term and to Freddie Hamilton (U6g) and Jake Windham (U6c) who have now completed all three award levels while at Sherborne.

We look forward to another successful year of Outdoor Education and DofE!

Mark Stuart DofE and Outdoor Education Assistant

C OMB IN ED CA

Our ever-growing CCF have had a ty focus was on basic fieldcraft to eq Field Trip on Salisbury Plain. There delved into their ration packs on th various activities including night nav to creep up to a certain area without to be joined by Dr Luckett’s CCF alte and he managed to see most

Our Fifth Form cadets (cadre course) lessons, so they are ready to take on move into the Sixth Form. On this trip as they practised section attacks. The additional layer of complexity which th went to Portsmouth which culminate activities, including swinging on rope Queen Elizabeth Park. One Senior the best trip h

For those that wish to take their trainin Cadet Cup (for Army section) in Senn Royal Marine cadets) at Lympstone.

A special mention has to go to our P few points shy of winning the whol 12 individual competitions. They t already planning their assault

The CCF was heavily involved in both t the Town’s Remembrance Sunday Para due solemnity. We are blessed with s cadets in leadership positions, and we (U6c) followed up the good news of hi as His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant’s C Charlie Wilson (U6d) passed the p at the Cadet Training C

A DE T F ORC E

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pically busy term. Much of the early uip the cadets for their overnight e was much excitement as cadets he trip. The cadets participated in vigation and stalks where they had t being spotted. We were delighted er ego, Lieutenant Colonel Luckett, of the 200+ cadets in action.

) have been learning how to deliver the mantle of instruction when they however, blank firing was to the fore ey got to use radios which added an hey enjoyed. Our Royal Navy section ed in a variety of adventure training s over water and mountain biking in Cadet remarked ‘it was probably e’s been on’!

ng to the next level we have the Rifles nybridge and the Pringle Trophy (for Both teams performed wonderfully. ringle team who came an agonising le thing having won six out of the trained for months, and they are t on next year’s competition!

he School’s Act of Remembrance and ade and treated these occasions with some outstanding male and female were delighted when Max Windham is Army scholarship with his selection Cadet for Dorset and the news that prestigious Master Cadet Course Centre over half term.

Rob Le Poidevin CCF Contingent Commander & Housemaster of The Digby

S PO

AFTER MANY MONTHS OF E EARLY SEPTEMBER 2023, WE THE NEW SHERBORNE SPO TWO WAS COMPLETED. PLANNING FINALLY CAM INTEREST AND ENTHUSIASM VISIBLE AS THEY WERE SH BUILDING. THE SPACIOUS GLIMPSE OF WHAT IS INSID SUPERB FA

For just over a year, the boys had the newly named Mike Davis Spor Housemaster, ex-England rugby p in the Sherborne Town community Plus, we already had the climbing classrooms. However, phase two for the boy

On the ground floor is a new wet pool, plus four new squash cou sports hall (both still under constr the first floor are two spacious s training and the performance gym new fitness gym with new state o With Health and Fitness at the he facility will certainly benefit the b early weeks wa

As you will be aware, the Spor community when our boys are tied very much welcome parents to

David Director

ORT

EXCITED ANTICIPATION, IN WERE ABLE TO MOVE INTO RTS CENTRE AFTER PHASE YEARS OF DESIGN AND E TO FRUITION AND THE M AMONGST THE BOYS WAS HOWN AROUND THE NEW RECEPTION AREA GIVES A DE WITH THREE FLOORS OF ACILITIES.

d already enjoyed the benefits of rts Hall, named after the ex-Digby layer, Coach and all-round legend y, who sadly passed away in 2022. centre with changing rooms and o contained even more treasures ys to enjoy.

changing area for the swimming rts and the refurbished original ruction). Up one flight of stairs on studios for yoga, pilates, circuit m. Finally, on the top floor is the of the art equipment from Matrix. art of our sports programme, this boys and their attendance in the as a joy to see.

rts Centre is used by the local d up in lessons or hall time, so we o use the wonderful facilities.

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“The fitness gym has made a massive difference to me and the way in which I train. The strength and endurance machines have enabled me to grow stronger and fitter throughout the last term, therefore positively impacting my performance on the pitch. In my opinion, the best thing about the fitness gym is, there are so many different machines and weights to use, there is always some way in which you work out. For example if the machines that you wish to use are taken, you can either find different machine to train on, or you can use weights, or even use a medicine ball to help you train.

There is always something to do!’’

Fin Gardner (3m)

“The Performance Gym is something that has been able to bring the team together off the pitch and allows all to specialise in our different areas. This is something that not only the 1st XV can benefit from but all the different age groups’’.

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Ed Elwell (U6c) 1st Captain

a “The performance gym has enabled me to excel in my development as an athlete in Bath Academy due to the amazing new equipment which I can use whenever I feel I need it.”

Edwin Langley (5e)

RUGBY

HOCKEY

The 2023 rugby season commenced with a successful pre-season camp, assessing nearly 100 boys’ fitness, skills, and tactical knowledge. The senior squad’s three-day camp at Loughborough University facilitated physical, technical, and tactical preparation, fostering unity among two new year groups.

Throughout the term the boys have been using the fantastic new Mike Davis Sports Hall to develop their indoor skills ahead of the regional tournament programme. We hosted the U16 tournament which was a great success and the boys at all levels played very well, although results didn’t quite go in their way.

The rugby programme’s growth led to the regular fixture programme for the 5th XV, U16C, and U15D teams, engaging over 350 players.

The 1st XV demonstrated resilience in a tough season, with standout performances from Finn Watson (U6a), Toby Bemand (U6a), Rocco Taylor (U6b), and others.

The senior development squad enjoyed a friendly match against Sherborne Girls which was both competitive and enjoyed by all, and on the representative front, Jamie Dod (L6g), Stan Harris (5d), Harry Newbald (5b) and Olly Macdonald (4a) played for Dorset age groups whilst Jamie Guy (L6g) has been selected for the England Hockey Talent Academy at Bath Buccaneers.

Our continued appreciation is extended to coaching staff, grounds, and especially the departing coach, Mr Bennett for his seven years of contribution to Sherborne Rugby.

Representative honours for Bath Rugby Academy were achieved by players across all age groups, reflecting the success and depth of Sherborne School’s rugby programme.

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The Michaelmas Term has been a fantastic ! ! ! ! ! opportunity for the pupils of Sherborne Boys, ! ! Prep ! to utilise !

Sherborne Girls! and Sherborne the! ! ‘Mike ! Davis’ !Sports ! Hall ! during ! HPP, new five-lane squad sessions and small group sessions ! ! ! ! ! !

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The cricketers across all ages have worked incredibly hard to develop their fundamental skills across all three facets of the game, whilst enjoying the challenges presented by the coaches. The addition of the Junior Inter-House Cricket Competition has been well received by the pupils, to go alongside the established senior competition.

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which is carried out in ! The ! sailing ! programme, ! ! ! ! ! conjunction with Sherborne Girls continued its ! positive ! trend.! There were! 30 pupils ! ! and all involved ! but five !of them represented ! ! the School ! ! matches ! in at some point during the term.

The peak was the ! representation of the two schools in three different mixed teams at the RYA UK National Youth and Junior Team Racing Championships in October. The youth team did particularly well in coming the fifth highest placed school against a highly competitive fleet of schools and clubs from across the country.

Within the 2023 calendar year Sherborne School was the third most active UK school on the schools sailing circuit.

A tight battle for best helm crew combination throughout the term went down to the wire with Oliver Thompson (U6f) and Yasha Malikov (U6f) coming out just ahead of George Gillespie (U6c) and Eddie Esdaile (4c).

Congratulations go to Freddie Hope-Hawkins (L6e), Josh John-Ringe (L6f) and Jack Fletcher (L6d) who trained and qualified as RYA Dinghy Instructors in the summer holidays having been awarded the funding to do so by the Andrew Yorke Bursary.

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FOOTBALL

! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! alongside! their!other sporting commitments, We often talk ! about the! ‘heartbeat ! !of the ! ! in order to compete in the ISFA Cup and ball’ in football, trying to infer that it must ! such ! ! that the tempo! and ! ! ! ! ! they! were ! ! !

Shield Competitions.

Unfortunately keep going, drawn intensity ! is maintained. ! ! Well, I think ! it is ! against! a very strong ! side from ! ! ! !

Hampton School in the 3rd round of the Cup. clear that the tempo and intensity of ! !Football has ! been! high ! ! However, ! ! having beaten! Marlborough ! ! ! ! !

College, Sherborne throughout this Term.! ! ! ! ! Michaelmas ! !they! are now ! through ! to the!quarter! finals of ! ! the National Shield Competition.

Starting with ! a productive ! and ! fun !residential ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! preseason, the U18A team has been fighting ! ! ! ! ! ! ! Throughout ! ! the! term,!the highly ! entertaining! ! ! ! on multiple fronts, namely the Wessex and enjoyable House Futsal Competition has ) Independent ! ! School’s League ! (WISL), the ISFA! ! been !running ! in the evening, ! ! in the ! new! Sports! ! !

National Cup and Trophy and the Dorset Hall. winner of and ! ! ! ! ! ! The eventual ! ! ! the Senior’s ! ! ! !

County Cup. Once again, the WISL continues Junior’s was Lyon House. to produce some !great competitive fixtures ! ! ! for ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! the boys. They continue to progress in the ISFA Next term, the boys will compete in the South ! ! !

Trophy, after beating Truro School and Bristol West Independent Schools (SWIS) League, Grammar School, ! and ! also the ! County ! Cup,! ! ! Bristol Grammar ! School, ! ! against Millfield, after a stunning display against St John’s Clifton !Colfox. ! ! ! ! ! ! ! Monmouth, ! ! College,!as well ! as! other ! friendly fixtures. ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

Special mention must be made of the U15 A ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! team who have managed to find time to train

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C LI M B I N G

TENNIS

SQUASH

The new climbing wall is continuing to provide endless fun and challenge to the boys.

New routes were set on the bouldering and roped wall, which have enthused and engaged the climbers to push themselves even further.

Tennis has once again proven a very popular choice with nearly 40 boys playing on a Thursday and Saturday. Boys have jumped on the success of the Trinity Term and continued with enthusiasm and dedication in the recent plummeting temperatures. In terms of competition, Michaelmas Term is relatively quiet with just our B team playing in the LTA Year 11-13 competition and unfortunately losing to strong teams from Ringwood School and Bournemouth School. Looking forward to Lent, our A team will be playing their matches in the competition and will be playing Bishop Wordsworth’s and Bournemouth Collegiate School with the winner of the group progressing to regional finals.

The squash team started off the season strongly with two consecutive wins against Clayesmore and Millfield before losing to a very strong Bryanston side and then again, a narrow defeat against King’s Taunton.

We finished off the half term against Canford and with a friendly against the Jesters.

While the team had its ups and downs, they played well and have improved with each game and look very strong for the second half of the season next term.

The Junior Climbing Team went away to Frome Bouldering Rooms for round one of their winter bouldering league. The boulder problems were set by the route setter from the Tokyo Olympics. Gabriel and Joshua Cheng (5e) did very well considering they just tipped into the adult open category by one day. Will Bennett (5e) and Harold Chen (4f) made excellent progress in the U16s category.

We look forward to entering further rounds in the following term and have high hopes for those competing to feature somewhere towards the top of their category. They should all feel very proud of themselves for giving each challenge a go in what can feel like quite intimidating circumstances.

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GO LF The golf team enjoyed a busy term with an Upper Sixth team competing at Burnham and Berrow Golf Club in the West of England Public School’s tournament. The 1st VI are still in the ISGA Singles Cup awaiting their semi-final opponents next term, whilst a tough draw in the Swifts Foursomes saw two close loses with one fixture still to go.

With the growth and popularity of golf continuing, for the first time Sherborne also put out a 2nd VI and an U16 VI so more boys than ever are now representing the School in golf teams.

WAT E R P O L O Akila Bakrie (5b) scored the first goal of the season in a challenging match against Millfield. This match saw some feisty goalkeeping by Zander Lacy-Smith (L6d), great defence work by Josh Blackwell (L6e) and further goals from Jago Lacy-Smith (4d) and Akila. However, Millfield’s team dominated, resulting in a 10-3 defeat.

Marc Fung (5a) captained a junior squad for a friendly match against Yeovil Spartans.

Sherborne enjoyed a 6-0 win.

Sherborne were out-swum and out-manoeuvered by a more cohesive Marlborough side, losing 12-2 in their away game.

Douglas Groves (U6c) (Captain), made a successful penalty shot, followed by a neat goal from Akila.

Another junior match against the Yeovil Spartans was captained by Akila. The team enjoyed a 14-1 win, with almost every player making it onto the scoreboard.

The term ended with a triangular match against Millfield (lost 14-1) and Marlborough (lost 7-3).

TA R G E T S H OOT I N G In early November, five of our Target Shooters received an opportunity to test their skills at the English Schools Long Range Challenge at the Lord Roberts Centre, Bisley. Despite very cold conditions on the day, all the boys performed well while shooting at 50m, which is twice their usual distance. Since they were shooting outdoors, they also had to account for the effect of the wind on their shots. Out of 160 competitors from 16 different schools, three of our boys - Forest Purvis (5b), William Kirkwood (5b), and Austin Lai (4c) - placed in the top 100, and the team collectively finished above Marlborough’s and Westminster’s A teams. A special mention should be made of Forest, who shot a Personal Best score of 189 out of 200, placing him outside the top 20 scores on the day by only two points.

The superb new Golf Simulator has also been a real boost, especially when all the inclement weather has shut the golf course.

Captain Theo Anderson Gannon (U6e) continues to lead the way superbly and he is now a regular in the full Somerset Golf Team.

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SKI RACING In October half term, the Ski Racing squad again travelled to Austria for their training camp with Precise Racing, to prepare boys for the DHO British Schoolboys Championships in January in Wengen, Switzerland.

However, a warm summer and lack of Autumn snowfall meant a change of location from Kaprun to the glacier at Hintertux in the Zillertal.

Conditions were challenging with plenty of ice, but the boys worked hard on all four days on the high alpine slopes. Some new to racing had their first taste of Slalom whilst our more experienced racers worked to hone their skills. After two days we switched to Giant Slalom which meant more speed and longer skis, and as more than one member of the trip found out, that also meant more crashes!

The trip was a huge success and we now have over twenty boys eagerly anticipating a trip to Switzerland in January and a chance to race down the world famous Lauberhorn.

CH A RI T Y & CO MMU N I TY O UT R E A C H

The start of the new year has seen some very keen Third Form boys engaging in the Co-curricular programme, which has been wonderful. The popular clubs this term have been Barbell Club, Cooking Club, Debating Society, Poker Club and Robotics Club. The Debating Society has seen some excellent debates incorporating Sherborne Girls, and between Houses.

Lego club is a new addition to the programme this year.

Poker Club is great fun, Maths Teacher Ms Standen teaches boys the art of the poker face, as well as the importance of counting and memory. We have also seen a strengthening of our relationship with Sherborne Girls and we have an increasing number of clubs to share between the Schools, including Astronomy Club, Japanese Club, Latin American current affairs, Photography Club, and the David Attenborough Appreciation Society. The hope is that the Co-curricular programme will be open to both schools for all clubs.

Community outreach has started again this year with some staff and boys getting involved with projects aplenty.

We enjoyed Christmas Jumper Day again this year in aid of Save the Children and we have just begun a new House link between Lyon House and Prodigal Bikes, which are a charity sending bikes out to Africa, and locally to give transport to refugees and asylum seekers in the south west. This is an exciting opportunity for boys in Lyon House to raise some much needed funds for this fabulous charity over the course of this year.

Next term we will see some new additions to the programme, including a circus skills workshop, where Teacher of Maths Mr Debney will teach some juggling and circus skills. I am sure this will prove popular among the boys. There are also some excellent GCSE support groups beginning next term, for Music, D&T, and Drama, to name but a few.

Harper House have just begun a link with Sherborne Primary School, and hope to send some boys into the primary school to read to children, and supervise them over break times. More work is necessary over the coming few months with other Houses and their charity links.

Ruth Chapman Community Engagement Lead/ Co-curricular Co-ordinator

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H I G H L I G H TS F RO M T HIS* T ERM . ..

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HI S TO RY OF A RT CL UB History of Art Club is proving an extremely popular choice on a Friday evening, with usually around 15 - 20 boys attending from all walks of School life. It is wonderful to see Third and Fourth Formers with a genuine curiosity for art and culture come along, even if they do not study Art at school. Even more impressive is their volunteering to produce and deliver presentations on subjects close to their heart.

The club has already seen some absolutely brilliant presentations this term: Cassius Hammick (U6m) made an in-depth analysis of a revolutionary 20th century architecture practice; Ed Brooke (U6b) took us on a journey on the changing nature of beauty, from Prehistory to Post-Modernism; and Lucas Tavares (L6f) introduced us to the world of Moorish and Islamic art and architecture in Spain.

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A small and friendly group meet ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! every Monday at 5.00pm to enjoy ! a range of ! board! games. ! ! ! ! !

Citadels, ! ! Carcassonne ! and ! !

There are! more ! exciting ! !things ! in the pipeline, including a talk on ! which, yes,! is the !genre !

Paleoart, of depicting ! dinosaurs.! We!are ! also hoping to host an OS artist ! ! ! in the Lent Term!

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Downforce have proved popular this! term. New members are! ! always welcome – boys can ! attend ! ! just!drop in every week, or !occasionally. ! ! ! !

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G OLF C LU B The inaugural Golf Club after school on a Tuesday has been very well received with 18 Third and Fourth Formers enjoying the driving nets and short game practice area on Carey’s in the sunshine of the first half of term, before heading in to the sparkling new Golf Simulator at half term as the weather and darkness descended. This has been a great opportunity for some of the younger boys to play some golf, including the challenge of the Old Course at St Andrews!

Alistair Hatch Geography Teacher

L E GO CL UB Library Lego Club takes place every Friday, from 5.10pm to 6.00pm, in the Lower Library and currently has five fabulously dedicated builders. Each week starts with Lego news and build updates, followed by a five minute warm-up build. For the main builds, the boys have had great fun building everything from monsters to siege weapons, desert islands to cars and designing new sports with sustainable features.

Highlights this term have included a collaborative group desert island build, featuring adaptations based on “disaster” problem cards and two very scary monsters “facing off” across the barricade as part of Monster Week!

Each week ends with the boys telling the story of their builds and testing out their creations.

Plans for the future include Library Lego on the move – an opportunity for Houses to have their very own mini Lego Club, run by library staff, as part of the Library’s new outreach programme. Watch this space for more…!

Sue Gransby Library Manager

T HE INT ER-H OU SE B LI T Z CH ES S T OU RNAME N T The Inter-House Blitz Chess Tournament started this term.

Four teams of two players played two Blitz matches (10 minutes on the clock). Next term we will have the Open Chess Championship to find the best player in the School!

Tim Dawson Maths Teacher

CRO SS F IRE Crossfire (The School’s Christian Union) has met most Thursdays at 5.45pm with a variety of age groups coming along. We have enjoyed meeting together regularly to share a meal and listen to a visiting speaker, or to look at a passage from the Bible. This term we have been looking at the life of Jesus in Matthews’ Gospel.

Nick Scorer Housemaster of Harper House and Chemistry Teacher

Art Society Sunday The Big Draw The whole School participated in the national Big Draw event.

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ELECT RONIC M US IC CLU B

An Academic Scholar, School Prefect, Head of Emerging technologies inform so much of what we House, chorister, student editor of The Shirburnian, do at Sherborne, so it should come as no surprise to company sergeant major in the OTC and 2nd xV learn that they are making their presence felt in the rugby team member, Cecil Day-Lewis CBE (1904Music School.

1972), Poet Laureate 1968-1972) attended Sherborne School (Harper House) from September 1917 to July Music technologies are an established part of the 1923. Cecil’s talent for writing was already evident at Music GCSE. However, they also have a role outside Sherborne where in 1922 and 1923 he won the of academic music in allowing those who do not play School’s English Verse prize for his poems instruments to experience the euphoria of musical St Ambrose and The Power of Music. Among his composition and performance. The Electronic Music other accolades, he also won the Barnes Elocution Club takes place each week for an hour on a prize, the English Verse prize, the Tuesday in Studio 2. This provides Carrington Exhibition, the English boys with the time and space to C OL OU R MIXIN G Essay prize, the Latin Verse prize and ‘play’, with technical support and AND OIL the Latin Prose prize. Cecil was a guidance. They explore a range of PAI NTING WITH proud Old Shirburnian and electronic music production GI N NY MA SO N remembered his time at Sherborne techniques through a range of We had visiting artist School with great affection. In different Digital Audio Workstations and teacher Ginny Sketches for a Self-Portrait (Poems (DAW) – most notably, the Ableton Mason lead a colour 1943-1947) he wrote of ‘the mellow Push. Already, the boys are enjoying mixing and oil painting South West town/That spoke to him the fruits of their early labours whilst workshop for boys words unheeded but unforgotten…’. developing their digital virtuosity, interested in learning producing increasingly complex, about painting with Whilst at Sherborne, Cecil was a textured, colourful compositions with oils. The next Art regular attendee of The Duffers, a greater speed, agility and style.

Society Sunday literary society founded in 1898 Rupert Dorey (3e) is making brilliantly workshop takes place whose purpose was ‘To keep its intricate and epic orchestral drum on 4 February 2024. members alive to all that is best in and bass tracks while Edmund English Literature, and to do so in as Willmott (3f) and Eddie Robertson Emma Drake happy and congenial surroundings as (3b) are creating glamorous discoArt Teacher possible.’ So, in the spirit of The rave with bombastic arrangements!

Duffers, the now renamed ‘Cecil Society’ humbly seeks to maintain It is exciting – and slightly terrifying – that noble tradition– to offer Sixth Form pupils the to consider where they might be in a couple of space to explore and enjoy the complex years. For now, the legendary Sherborne CourtsFest contemporary intersections of Literature, Culture, later in the year will provide a perfect platform for Science and the Humanities… in as happy and the boys to share their Electronic Music Club congenial surroundings as possible! Highlights from compositions in between the bands. But keep an ear this term include sessions on The Palimpsest, out – who knows? You might be listening to the next Disappearing Landscapes, the Ballardian Liminal, the David Guetta, Timbaland, Pharell or Fred Again!

Overton Window and the Gothic At Christmas.

Gervase Gordon English Teacher

R A D IO SOC I E TY Radio Society has found itself more and more in the thick of life at Sherborne this term. Alongside the weekly broadcasts it has also spread its wings into podcasting, both for the School and further afield.

The weekly broadcasts have maintained their high quality. The Lower School show, recently renamed ‘9 Out Of 10 Dentists’ has showcased the talents of Hector Wilson (5b), Felix DiNanno (5f), Oliver Bibby (4e) and newcomer Cedric von Studnitz (4a); Bamber Mauleverer (U6b) and Joseph Harris (U6d) have chosen some fine tunes for Pick A Genre, and Joseph has turned up again with Alex Kerr (U6d) on the very professional and informative Sport Show.

Rocco Taylor (U6b), Caspar Bridge (U6f), Angus Brewster (U6b), Ivo Finney (5d) and Hugo Tyrrell (5d) have sailed close to the wind at times, but always ended up on the right side of the censor.

Deputy Head (Sixth Form) Mr Boyd-Williams has taken advantage of the radio studio to present and produce some excellent and informative podcasts for the Careers Department, and recent ones focusing on Sixth Form choices have been entertaining listening even for those who aren’t picking their A Levels and BTECs. But the flagship programme has been the Society’s involvement in Edward Brooke (U6b) and Freddie Fineman’s (L6e) Talking to the Top podcast. The show where they interviewed the editor of the Top Gun Maverick and Mission: Impossible Dead Recking, Eddie Hamilton was one of the best things I have heard this year.

I’m looking forward to more great radio over the next two terms.

James Crawford Head of Theology & Philosophy

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W E LL B EI N G Pupils have been involved in a number of initiatives including our pupil-led pastoral programme. For Anti-Bullying week, Sixth Form pupils held discussion-based activities in House to get younger boys thinking about their behaviour towards others, discussing ideas in an open and supportive forum. We hosted the organisation Beyond Equality to facilitate discussion with our Fourth Form and welcomed back Lorraine Lee to talk about Teenage Brain Development.

In the Sixth Form we hosted the Justice and Care organisation to discuss modern slavery, Patrick Foster talked about his experiences of Gambling and Risk and the Alcohol Education Trust to develop more self awareness about the effects of drinking.

We look forward to hosting more exciting speakers next term including Karl Hopwood, Aric Sigman and number of others to enrich our Wellbeing programme here at Sherborne.

Nikola Bowerman Teacher of Theology

M E N TA L H EA LT H SO FAR THIS TERM WE HAVE WELCOMED ANOTHER NINE PUPILS TO THE PUPIL LISTENER SERVICE. THESE PUPILS HAVE SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETED TWO COMMUNICATION SKILLS WORKSHOPS THAT INCLUDE SAFEGUARDING AND MENTAL HEALTH COMPONENTS, AND THE BOYS COMMIT TO A PROFESSIONAL BEHAVIOURS CODE OF CONDUCT TO UPHOLD THE INTEGRITY OF THE SERVICE. THE NEW PUPIL LISTENERS JOINED 12 EXISTING LISTENERS WHO CONTINUE TO ATTEND SKILLS DEVELOPMENT AND SUPERVISION MEETINGS ON A HALF TERMLY BASIS, WHERE WE HAVE INTERESTING DISCUSSIONS, BOYS ARE COACHED AND WE ALWAYS INCLUDE AN EXPERIENTIAL PIECE OF WORK. THE COUNSELLOR AND I ARE SEEING GREAT TRANSFORMATION IN THE TEAM THIS YEAR, THE PASSION AND ENERGY FOR MENTAL HEALTH MAKES US SO PROUD OF WHAT THESE PUPIL LISTENERS ARE TRYING TO ACHIEVE.

November brings ‘Movember’, which is a fantastic opportunity to raise awareness of ‘mens health’ and mental health. Just to prove how much men’s physical and mental health matters to us at Sherborne, various initiatives have been running throughout the month. The Green should be congratulated for completing

their sponsored run, the Mental Health Pupil Voice Committee has launched a ‘Movember’ poster competition with prizes available for winners, and a Sixth Form pupil led assembly was planned for the end of November as boys wanted to focus on mental health and prostate cancer.

As ever, plans for Children’s Mental Health Week are being planned now, so hopefully some exciting news will follow to help us celebrate mental health following this year’s theme of ‘my voice matters’.

Marie Hutchings Nurse Manager

P RE P S C H O OL E N G A G E MEN T As ever, it’s been a busy term with regard to Prep School events. There have been visits to schools, Prep School Heads and staff have visited us, there has been sports coaching, refereeing and tournaments, not to mention welcoming pupils to our Cracking the Code event and attending Senior Schools Fairs at a number of schools. My thanks to everyone who has helped with everything that goes into holding these events, and flying the Sherborne flag away from School.

This October, we once again combined forces with Sherborne Girls to host our popular Prep Schools Cracking the Code challenge. Pupils from visiting Prep Schools combined to make teams and take on challenges in the fields of Maths and Humanities (at Sherborne Girls),

before moving on to the Sherborne site for code-breaking tasks in Biology and Languages.

Mrs Thurman, Head of Modern Foreign Languages helped the pupils explore linguistic patterns to decipher words in languages as diverse as Bambara (spoken mainly in Mali), the Austronesian language of Abma, and even some Egyptian hieroglyphs.

The Biology Department explored the fundamentals of DNA, extracting DNA from strawberries before making their own helixes to take home.

Thank you to Modern Foreign Languages and Biology for delivering such exciting challenges, and to the teams from Dumpton, Hazlegrove, Sandroyd, Sherborne Prep, Sunninghill, and The Pilgrims’ for some great code cracking.

Louise Smith Engagement Officer

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Image credits: Josie Sturgess-Mills and others.

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