Hon Secretary of the Golf Society, Ian Pressney (’98)
Dunstonian News & Scrapbook
Insta News
Albam
Oriental Club Reunion
The History of St Dunstan
Repairs to the stained-glass window
A
Battlefield Tour
Sport Round up
The Future of Park Langley
Dunstonian Wall refresh
Dunstonians
to their alma mater
Welcome introductions...
As we reach the end of another school year, it’s a real joy to wish the Class of 2025 the very best. Good luck with your exams, results, and everything that comes next. You leave with the full support of the Dunstonian Community as you step into a new and exciting chapter.
This edition features a beautiful reflection from Albam Exorna Award winner, Izzy Calogeras, alongside a thoughtful interview with Head of School, Yasmin Bradshaw. Both speak powerfully to the friendships, values and memories that make the Dunstonian community so special and remind us how those bonds continue to shape and support us, long after we leave.
That spirit of connection is everywhere in these pages, and I’m always struck by the generosity of our alumni, especially the mentors who give their time so willingly. Your help broadens horizons and opens doors, and your impact is truly felt.
A big thank you also to the brilliant team in the Dunstonian Office. Their hard work behind the scenes ensures we all have a place to stay in touch. If you have something to share, or something you'd like to hear more about, please do reach out.
If you haven’t already, now is the time to join SDConnect. It is your hub for everything from events and careers to archives and clubs, everything you need to stay connected.
And finally, we are excited about the future of Dunstonian Sports at Park Langley: your thoughts and support will help shape its future.
Wishing you a happy, sunny, and inspiring summer.
Jonny Aucamp ('86) Chair of The Dunstonian Association
I’d like to add my welcome and best wishes and introduce myself as the new Chair of Governors of St Dunstan’s.
I’m a Dunstonian myself (‘81), since you ask, Thomas House as was, in Rod Hughes’ History tutorial in the Sixth Form. So as I walk around St Dunstan’s now, I get a great mix of the old and the new, of memories of time past and the joy in seeing today’s brilliant young Dunstonians shaping their futures through all the excellent academics and activities that St Dunstan’s is full of. The past and the future combined, a good model of the community that a school is.
And as a board, I and my fellow board members are full of optimism for St Dunstan’s and Dunstonians. We are building on all the successful change of the last decade for St Dunstan’s. Our theme is “Excellence. Differently” and we are building more excellence and more life chances for all in the context of St Dunstan’s distinctive values. And of course we are now a group - the St Dunstan’s Education Group - so we are doing the same for all our schools. Managing our offer, our name, our land and buildings and the community that is St Dunstan’s for the long term future.
I look forward to meeting lots of you. Best wishes to all,
Dr Rupert Evenett MBE ('81) Chair of Governors
NEWS DUNSTONIAN & Scrapbook
Tim Chittleburgh (‘74)
Tim is an official F1 Marshall and follows the F1 season all around the world. He is pictured below in Abu Dhabi in 2023.
Thomas Hyde ’s SDC Anthem
We are delighted to report that the new piece written for St Dunstan’s College by composer Thomas Hyde (’96) for Commemoration Day 2024 and kindly paid for by Dunstonian John Nightingale (‘63) has been played since at Temple Church in London as well as in Los Angeles.
Yanoulla Kakoulli ('01) appointed as Partner at Judge & Priestley Solicitors
Since joining the firm in Blackheath in 2022, Yanoulla has been the driving force within the Family Law Team, offering not only deep legal expertise but also empathy and tenacity in equal measure.
Her broad experience includes complex children matters, international relocation cases and domestic abuse cases. Beyond her work, Yanoulla is an also an active voice for progress in the legal profession, reflecting her commitment to a fairer, more inclusive legal sector. She sits on several EDI committees including the Gray’s Inn one.
Doug Sinclair ('86) Recent Retirement
Doug Sinclair (’86) has recently retired from a career in tax spanning over 37 years. He started working for the former Inland Revenue (now HMRC) in a local tax office in Bromley, investigating individuals and small businesses. Then in 2001 he moved to join the accountancy profession to assist individuals who were either the subject of a tax investigation or who wished to make a disclosure to bring their tax affairs up to date.
Doug retired as a tax partner in December 2024. In addition, Doug and his wife have moved from Beckenham to Ballymena in Northern Ireland, where he is looking forward to enjoying a life without emails and deadlines.
Acclaimed Journalist
Matthew D’Ancona ('85) comes back to the College to pick up his prize
Hidden in the Archives, we found a beautifully framed National Essay Award from the Observer, one which Matthew D’Ancona won in 1984. Matthew came back to the College in January to pick it up after having a tour around the College with two of our prefects and a lunch with the Head of Sixth Form, Alex Brewer. Come again soon, Matthew!
Dr Jaideep Israel ('93) visits Year 5
Year 5 had a visit from Dr Jaideep, who runs a local GP practice in Forest Hill. The pupils have been learning about the human body and loved being able to ask questions about his career.
They found out many fascinating facts from his visit. For instance did you know that if the surface area of the lungs were stretched out they would fill the area of a tennis court?
It was a very inspiring and educational visit.
Lunch with Philip Matthew ('59)
Isabelle Blake-James, Director of Philanthropy and Alumni Relations, had the pleasure of having lunch with Philip and his wife of 30 years, Sue, in a beautiful hotel just outside Norwich where they both live.
Philip explored his memory box at home and dug up some amazing archival material, which he kindly donated to the College. This included all his school reports, spanning seven whole years. What a treat! Thank you both for a lovely lunch.
Thank you, to the Dunstonian Association, for the unexpected Happy Birthday card. It was heartwarming to be reminded of my eight memorable years in the 1940s & 1950s and the friendships formed during that time, not to mention my first detention in Form 1A!
After leaving in 1955, I spent four years at Brixton School of Building, followed by two years of National Service in the infantry. Then, I worked in London before building housing on Grand Bahama Island, and later worked in the UK, U.A.E., and Trinidad & Tobago, before returning to England.
I had no idea the Association had recorded my birthday, but it has reconnected me with about ten former classmates. I lost touch due to work abroad, but through these contacts, I’ve revisited photos, including one of the prefects and sub-prefects, with W R Hecker, H.M. seated in the middle. It’s amazing to reflect on those memories, especially at my “golden” age. It’s great to be an O.D. of the College!
The picture with the three boys is a cherished memory—my first day at school in September 1947. My two best friends, John Muil (on the left) and Charles Barrie Reed (on my left), were with me. John was in Goosey House, Barrie in Bennett, and I was in Thomas. We lived within 100 yards [oh sorry! 99.44 metres) of each other, and were in the same class year.
Jeremy (Jem) R. Moss ('55) reflects
Golf Day at Knole Park in Sevenoaks
On 3 December 2024, we saw a dozen Dunstonian golfers mix with a dozen pupils of the College during our Golf Day at Knole Park, Sevenoaks. Thank you to Ian Pressney (’96), Honorary Secretary of the Society, for organising the day, as well as to Danny Gower and Richard Risebro, Director of Sports, for coordinating with enthusiastic students to attend.
Roy Payton (’55) celebrates the 80th anniversary of VE Day
1983 Xmas dinner
The attendees from left to right are:-
Clive Stockwell KC, Neil Kerr, Graham Beauchamp, Sean Malone, Andy Sims and David Edwards
David Edwards (’83) writes: “The annual '83 Christmas reunion took place on 11 December at Bar Douro in Finsbury Avenue. It is now a mere 41 years since we left SDC! A splendid evening was had by all, reminiscing about everything from school lunches to what used to go on during morning assemblies......
Many thanks to Sean Malone(’83) for his customary meticulous organisation.”
52 years, 3 continents and a regular Zoom call
John Sayers (‘73) writes:
Our recent regular monthly Zoom catchup at 0900 London time with Lawrence Atkinson in Australia and Peter Allen in Singapore took place last week, 52 years on from leaving the College!
Last week Lawrence (who still has his colours blazer as First Captain of basketball but sad to report that this missed the schools basketball honours board! (Which started much later).
Lawrence Atkinson top left, the writer top centre and Alan P Smith top R; Richard Stanley lower left, Phil Brand lower centre and Peter Allen lower right.
John Nightingale ('63)
The College’s Director of Philanthropy and Alumni Relations, Isabelle BlakeJames, was out and about and recently visited John and Jenny in Beckenham, as they have generously supported the repairs to the stained glass in the Great Hall, amongst other things. (See page 20 )
Bristol Reunion
Brian Shrimpling (‘60), Alan Dibley (‘58) and ex member of staff Christopher Taylor joined Isabelle Blake-James for a lovely lunch in Bristol. Stories and laughs were shared – especially after seeing some long-forgotten report cards! A first of many Bristolian Reunions in years to come.
1962 annual luncheon reunion
Godfrey Tarling (’78)
Godfrey graduated in 1983 from Heriot-Watt University with an Hons degree in Building & Masters in Construction Management (Building) & has over 40 yrs of professional experience in the construction industry.
He started at London Borough of Greenwich as a building surveyor, before attaining the position of an Associate in a CBS Practice serving both commercial (including several well-known high street & service brands) &private clients / Trusts. Godfrey was chartered in 86.
This was followed as a front-line charity surveyor involved in Building Surveying & Project Management as Head of an international estates department. Elected Fellow of CABE in 93, RICS in 05 & IET in 18 recognising his wide-ranging experience covering all aspects of building surveying.
Congratulations to Andy Roland for organising another great get together that has continued seamlessly since 2004 - 21st birthday this year! Our normal venue was at Doggetts restaurant in Blackfriars and was attended by 14 plus a guest – former pupil at SDC, Guy Howe, the son of John Howe (deceased - who was 1962 leaver).
Anzac Day by Steven Smith
Some of you will remember the incredible story of Steven Smith who joined the Dunstonian Ypres trip in 2023 after researching his ancestors who are Dunstonians. Steven is flying the family flag high in Tasmania by wearing his ancestors’ medals during Anzac Day: Sydney Horace Smith (1893-1980) and John Clarence Smith (1894-1917) are also permanently remembered at the College through two beautiful cherry trees.
Birthday Celebrations!
For the past few years, the Dunstonian Office has been sending birthday cards all around the world for significant birthdays above the age of 60 and for all birthdays above the age of 80. Here is an email received from Edward Biffin ('63):
Thank you for the birthday card for my 81st birthday in three days t me, and the report card. Yes it did bring back some memories, including mention of the '25 guinea 'Endeavour' essay prize (it was actually the 2nd prize and I still have the certificate in my archivesand the railway ticket the British Association paid for me to attend their meeting in Aberdeen to recieve the prize).
There was a link between the CCF 'C/Sgt' in 1963 and the prizeall I needed to do was get the 'A' coy on parade, report all present, then disappear up to the Chemistry lab to continue writing my essay... What I don't have is a copy of my essay - which was on theconcept of aromaticity in organic chemistry - not the odour but the planar ring structure with 'floating' pi-electrons. I didn't have a typewriter in those days so I gave a handwritten copy to my colleague, William Jasper Marshall who did have one, then hand illustrated the typed text. There was just the one copy and years later the British Association gave the copy to an Indian research student somewhere.
The report also mentions the Dramatic Society box office as a
supplementary activity in March 1963 - I did some small posters to put round the school corridors to advertise Christopher Fry's 'The Lady's Not for Burning' - and I still have one of them!
Disappointed that there was no mention of 'Art', but then looking back at the term reports it doesn't feature there either: which is a shame because one of my highlights in, I think 1960, was to get a painting of Jesus walking on the Sea of Gallillee into the 'Christian Year in Pictures' exhibiton at Lambeth Palace. Art still forms part of my life - my house has many painted ceilings, usually with an Oriental theme, plus plaster dragon reliefs in three rooms, all made by myself.
I still have most of my reports, and the O' and A' Level exam papers, and a couple of Bennett House photos from around 1959, plus other odds and ends. I started writing up my experiences and got as far as year 2 at St Dunstan's. This has taken the back-burner at the moment as I am producing a long series of articles about the history of my village for the local free newsletter.
Ski Trip and competition winner (guess who is who?)
A former Charnwood Borough Council leader has been made Honorary Freeman: on 14 April 2025, Richard Shepherd (’67), a borough councillor for 44 years, was presented with the highest title which can be given to a former councillor in recognition of his exceptional service to the community.
Mr Shepherd was a borough councillor from 1979 until 2023 and served as leader between 1990 to 1995 and 2007 to 2009. He has also served as chairman of Quorn Parish Council between 1981 and 1983 and has taken up roles as committee chairman at the borough council and has been vice-chairman of Leicestershire County Council since May 2024. Mr Shepherd’s professional career was in teaching, and in addition to his council duties, he was a school governor for a number of years.
“I am very grateful to councillors for the kindness and generosity they have shown by making me an Honorary Freeman. It means a lot to me. I greatly enjoyed serving as a member of the borough council, but I have closed the door behind me on that role, and now the council has opened a new door before me, the experience of being an Honorary Freeman. Thank you all very much indeed."
(Press release article & image published in the Council News section of the Borough Council's website 15 April, 2025.)
Were you able to name all 9 goggled up Dunstonians on their annual ski trip? It was definitely a challenge!
From left to right…
Matt Francis ('86), Mike Saunter ('87), Mark Slade ('87), Mark Robinson ('87), Danny Langley (NOD; non-old Dunstonian), Jonny Aucamp ('86), Fred Platford ('88), Rob Brophy ('87), Rick Fagg ('85)
Corps of Drums Appeal for a new Drum Major sash
We are writing to seek your support in funding a new Drum Major sash for our Corps of Drums. The Drum Major sash is a traditional and highly symbolic piece of uniform, worn with pride by the Drum Major during parades, ceremonies, and formal events. Richly decorated, the sash represents not only the authority and leadership of the Drum Major but also the history and heritage of the Corps itself.
Our current Drum Major sash proudly displays the Queen’s Cypher, a monogram traditionally composed of the sovereign’s initials and title. However, following the accession of His Majesty King Charles III, it is fitting and proper that we update the sash to display the King’s Cypher, reflecting the new reign and maintaining the Corps’ proud standard of ceremonial accuracy and tradition.
This change is more than a simple update; it honours our commitment to representing our service, our history, and our loyalty to the Crown with respect and correctness. The new sash will continue to be a centrepiece of our uniform for many years to come, worn with pride by generations of Drum Majors to come.
The cost of commissioning a new, high-quality sash is significant, as it requires skilled craftsmanship and durable materials befitting its ceremonial importance. Therefore, we are kindly asking for donations to help us fund this important update. Any contribution, large or small, will help us preserve our traditions and maintain the excellence for which our Corps of Drums is known. We deeply appreciate your support.
Please contact Isabelle Blake-James, Director of Philanthropy and Alumni Relations at: development@stdunstans.org.uk, for an initial conversation.
Richard Shepherd ('67)
NEWS INSTA From Recent Alumni
Recent Leavers Xmas Drinks
On Wednesday 18 December, nearly 30 young Dunstonians (who left between 2014 and 2024), gathered around the Christmas tree outside the Great Hall. We were overjoyed to see so many undergraduates and postgraduates returning to the College for a glass of fizz and some delicious nibbles.
Past Heads of Schools were represented by Ryo Myers ('24), Xin Schackleton ('22) and Piotr Burda-Wolinski ('21), and many recent 2024 leavers also came back to their alma mater for the occasion.
A special thank you must go to our Dunstonian Officer, David Edwards ('83), as well as to Physics Teacher Alastair Currie, for joining Isabelle Blake-James, Director of Development and Alumni relations, and Hannah French, Fundraising Campaign Officer, for the occasion.
Linus Luu (’22) in the final of University Challenge
Linus recently represented Christ’s College Cambridge in the final of the TV show, University Challenge! Twenty-eight universities from across the UK took part this year in a thrilling series in which Christ’s, accompanied by their mascot ‘the serious goose’, has won five rounds to make the final two. The team have been commended by presenter Amol Rajan for ‘a thrilling bit of quizzing’ in the first quarter final, but ‘falling asleep’ in the second through to their most recent ‘stellar performance’ when Brendan answered an amazing run of starter questions. Linus’ team went on to win the final 175 to 170 after a nail biting hour, on 12 May 2025.
Daniel Witham (’23) joins EY
Daniel Witham announced on Linkedin that he will be joining EY as a Summer Intern in their Audit and Assurance Business Line. Well done, Daniel!
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Languages evening
The College's inaugural Careers in Languages event was a resounding success, drawing over 300 passionate attendees.
The day was packed with exciting activities and invaluable insights into the world of languages. Thank you to Dunstonians Leo Trenton ('21), Jack Gibson ('24), Robert Ruz (’89), Bijou Jordan ('22) and Izzy Vicary ('22) for volunteering their time and helping make this event unforgettable.
Spring into Summer
On Thursday 24 April, the Dunstonian Office hosted a vibrant networking and cocktail evening for Dunstonian ladies: ‘Spring into Summer.' We gathered at The Sterling, an elegant bar at the foot of the iconic Gherkin in the heart of the city.
Dunstonian ladies came together for an evening of conversation, laughter and a little fizz. We were delighted to be joined by Hazen Ahmet ('04), Tijen Ahmet ('01), Shea Hollis ('01), Yanoulla Kakoulli ('01), Anna Lloyd ('01), Sophie New ('01) and Babette Radclyffe-Thomas ('07), all of whom helped make the evening such a success.
Attendees enjoyed cocktails and light bites while connecting with like-minded professionals, sharing stories and catching up on life since the College.
We are already looking forward to welcoming more of you to our next gathering. Until then, a huge thank you to everyone who joined us for such a memorable evening - a fantastic way to welcome warmer months!
Flora Davies (’19)
Since finishing school, I completed an undergraduate degree in French and Spanish at Oxford University, and I’m now coming to the end of a two-year Master’s in Human Rights at Sciences Po’s Paris School of International Affairs. I’m about to graduate and will soon be leaving Paris for Istanbul, where I’ll be doing a six-month internship with UN Women, working with their UN Coordination team.
The internship will take place at the Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia, and will focus on supporting coordination between country offices and UN Women Headquarters in New York, to help ensure that each office is effectively fulfilling its mandate to advance gender equality.
Jonny Aucamp ('86), Chair of the Dunstonian Association, meets current prefects
At the beginning of February, Jonny Aucamp (’86) came into the College to meet with our current prefects (Red Ties and Blue Ties) as well as the Head of Sixth Form, Alex Brewer. Jonny introduced prefects to the Dunstonian Association and ran a brainstorming session for future events. It was an amazing opportunity for students to have their voices heard and get involved in shaping the future of our Dunstonian community. Thank you, Jonny!
Following a holiday to Clubmed Gregolimano, Greece, between finishing at St Dunstans and starting at Nottingham Trent University I was lucky enough to try one of the activities on offer - flying trapeze.
To this day I remember the feeling of climbing up the ladder, and jumping off the platform for the first time, to hang upside down by my knees with the wind rushing through my hair. I came down from my first try and said to my family, 'I need to work here and do this'. So after 4 years of university I applied to Clubmed and after a short COVID related delay I was given the opportunity to join the circus team in the Turks and Caicos and Cancun.
Since then I have been able to visit the Dominican Republic, Indonesia, Bali, Singapore, the USA and Canada. The experience of working at clubmed is one to definitely consider and also has huge opportunities for management training and growth as well as travel, and is something I would recommend to most young people that I meet.
Naming our new Dunstonian Duck Competition
Our mascot Duckstan, given to all Year 13 students on A ' Level results day, has travelled the world and seen all there is to see, but he needed a friend.
We asked you to name his new companion, and the results did not disappoint!
Creativity flowed in droves as you can see below and the winner had to be Quackford (aka Quackford Bridge!) A bottle of fizz was awarded to our winner, John McCombe ('98).
List of names: Fredruck, Donald, Stan, Quackford Dunst-Hen, Quackford Bridge, Stan Stead, Al (short for Albam exorna), Pringle (after the shape of the refectory), Bill-ie Jean, Fuzzy, Quackie McDuckface, Duncan Dunstan, Sir Quackalot , Sir Francis Drake and James Pond.
Thomas Fagg ('16)
The Dunstonian Association is delighted to invite you to our
Prefects (Red ties and Blue ties) for 2024-25
Name Position
Alex Mussett Red Tie
Betsy Davies Blue Tie
Danika Mleko Blue Tie
Isobel Edenborough Red Tie, Deputy Head
Izzy Calogeras Red Tie
Katie Kenyon Blue Tie
Martha Preece Blue Tie
Sasha Swann Blue Tie
Yasmin Bradshaw Red Tie, Head of School
Eric Ho Blue Tie
James Sugrue Red Tie
Joseph O'Connor-Coffey Blue Tie
Noah Oladele Ajose Red Tie, Deputy Head
Martha Labi Blue Tie
Mei Lin Rawlings Blue Tie
Safia Rieb-Smith Blue Tie
Ab Sa Nembhard Blue Tie
Marco Ong Blue Tie
Lucas Bryan Blue Tie
Lucas Reinholc Gomez Blue Tie
SDCONNECT
YOUR PROFILE: Your profile activates after the Sixth Form Ball.
UPDATES: Monthly email updates and alumni magazine.
DIRECTORY: Find old friends or invite new connections to join you for a reunion in the UK or abroad.
CAREERS & WORK EXPERIENCE: Connect with other alumni who are offering work experience or advertising jobs.
EVENTS: Find out about the increasing number of events taking place at the College or at the Jubilee Ground.
CLUBS: The Dunstonian Association runs various sports clubs which you are most welcome to get involved with.
ARCHIVES: Access to the College’s digitised archives.
MERCHANDISE: Why not buy a branded tote bag or coffee flask?
SUPPORT US: Check out our fundraising page for our ‘Help Shape Young Lives Campaign’.
SDConnect will allow you to connect or reunite online with the wider St Dunstan’s Community at: www.dunstonians.org.uk
ONGOING CAREERS SUPPORT
We now have nearly 500 volunteer Dunstonian career mentors, CV reviewers and career advisors.
Please reach out to any one of them directly via the Career tab on SDConnect.
We also recommend you start following The Dunstonian Association on its Linkedin page.The regular online career talks organised by the Head of Careers at the College are open to young alumni and links are regularly shared in the half termly online newsletter for all under 25s.
Welcome to the class of 2025
A warm Dunstonian welcome to our newest members, congratulations to the Class of 2025:
James Harrison
Archie
Yasmin
Louis
Georgina
Lucas
Ralph Izzy
Oscar
Freddie Kenji
Ruby
Betsy
Isobel
Nerys
Chinemerem
Jemima
Nancy
Josie Kate
Oliver Annika
Freddie Ollie Poppy Danika Alex
Ab
Samuel
Nico
Joseph Noah
Vanya
Martha Femi
Lukas
Matty Elena
Martha Mei
Carys
George
Jared
Marco
Isabel
Layla
Charlotte
Graduation Day
The gown says it all!
We had the utter privilege of welcoming back to St Dunstan's College Dunstonian Dr Babette RadclyffeThomas FRAS ('07) who kindly agreed to be our guest speaker at this year's Graduation Ceremony for our Year 13 Students.
Little did they know that they would be in for a treat.
Babette is a force of nature and a beautiful human being who is the embodiment of the College's motto, Albam Exorna. She is a most accomplished alumna as she has the world's first PhD in Vogue China, is a fellow of the Royal Asiatic Society and lectures in her spare time on the MSc International Fashion Marketing at Ravensbourne University. Oh, and she is also an award-winning fashion journalist.
Her speech was Inspiring. Powerful. Edgy. A little Pink too.
St Dunstan's College's Dunstonian Office would not exist without alumni like Babette. We are extremely grateful to each one of you for supporting the College and the next generation of alumni whether it be by giving a lecture, being a speaker or a mentor or funding a bursary student.
Albam Exorna Award 2025
Winning entry from Izzy Calogeras, Year 13
The Runners up were Lucas Bryan and Noah Oladele-Ajose
It’s funny the way time folds in on itself. When I was younger, year 6 seemed like a lifetime. Year 11 like an eternity. And year 13, a path yet to be walked. But now, standing here on the trail, with the sun setting on this final chapter, I watch myself from a distance. I look back and see a girl consumed by youth and innocence, wide-eyed at the path before her and uncertain of the route she must take - and I question how I have been led here, the place I now stand and call ‘the end.’
And as I go to try and take this final step across the line, I feel myself being pulled back by something unfamiliar. I turn to find a string attached to me. Overcome with curiosity, I follow the string as it beckons my name. As I reach the end of the string, I realise I am standing in the centre circle of the courts, ball in hand, as I listen to the whistle blow. I now stand at the place where it all began – where my love for the sport first took root and grew into something bigger. It is a part of me as much as my name is, and I carry it with me forever. Back on the path with just one step to go, I feel a familiar pull – a string that shines like gold. I
follow it without a second thought, as I’m drawn to something that feels all too dear. As I stand here in the dark, quiet rooms, I realise I stand in the place where it all began – where I found my voice. Fragility turns to certainty, and as age grows, something inside of me did as well. Confidence. A quiet love for the stage that’s never truly left me. It is a part of me as much as my smile is, and I carry it with me forever.
One last try to cross the path. Again, I’m held back, but this time the string feels different. It feels like a place I’ve been but long forgotten. A memory that hasn’t yet been unlocked. With every step I take following this string, a wave of nostalgia gets higher and higher, until suddenly, it can’t get any taller and must break. I now understand where I have been taken. I stand at the place where it all began –standing outside the gates, I realise I am standing at the place where every version of myself once stood as well.
Together we share the same feeling of apprehension towards change, excitement for what the future holds, and a tenderness for the place I am leaving behind. A place that I hold in my heart so dearly, knowing that my time has come. They are a part of me, like my soul is to my body, they influence every aspect of the life I live. They are constant and omnipresent. I carry them with me forever. And I realise that the path no longer holds me – and I know I can finally move on.
Each string tied to me tells a story — moments, memories, people, fears — threads woven quietly through the years. Each one represents a step I’ve taken, a version of myself I’ve carried. And now, as I stand at the edge of something new, I feel some of those strings begin to loosen. Not with sorrow, but with grace.
Because to grow is not to cut them away, but to free myself just enough to move forward — to make space for the next chapter, where new strings will find me, tie themselves gently to my being, and shape the next part of who I become.
Growing up was never a requirement — just a quiet privilege, an unfolding I’m thankful to witness within myself. And as I take my final step along my path, I am surrounded by an array of more paths for me to take. Which one I decide to take first is up to me, but they will all connect me back to where I started. No matter how far I go, I will always be connected to the youth and innocence that stood in the very spot I am standing in now and allow me to look over the small girl I once was as she takes her first steps with me. I look back and see how far I’ve come and turn to face forwards and realise how much I’ve still got to learn.
St Dunstan’s has taught me many things in life. What it’s like to succeed and to fail, and provided me with the stepping stones to independence. A journey I do not believe I would’ve been able to make without your support. St Dunstan’s has also told me what it means to take that final step, that it isn’t to close the book completely, but to turn the page to the next chapter in our lives. The end is never really the end; they are blank pages waiting to be filled with stories yet to be made.
As I take my next path, the blank pages will be coloured by the memories I carry, a reminder of all that has shaped me. I hope that for everyone in year 13, your pages will be filled with moments worth remembering.
Izzy Calogeras
Oriental Club Reunion
On Thursday 6 February, the Dunstonian Office held a drinks reception at The Oriental Club for the first time. The evening was a roaring success, and we had a wonderful turn out of Dunstonians across the decades coming from all over London (and beyond!). Attendees enjoyed wine, light bites and reminisced with old connections.
We were also very fortunate to listen to an engrossing presentation by the Chair of the Oriental Club, Laurence Singlehurst, who took us through an overview of the Club’s rich history and heritage. The Club was originally founded by returning officers and officials from India and the East. It became a home-away-from-home for high-ranking Members of the East
India Company, a place where they could meet, enjoy delicious curries and do business in welcoming surroundings. Since 1962, the Club’s home has been in Stratford House: an elegant venue in the heart of Marylebone.
A huge thank you to David Edwards ('83) for organising such a delightful eveningthe best way to beat the February blues!
If you are interested in Membership at an exceptional Clubhouse with an unrivalled location, a vibrant social programme of events and societies, as well as a special relationship with St Dunstan's, please contact The Dunstonian Office in the first instance at: dunstonians@stdunstans.org.uk
THE HISTORY OF ST DUNSTAN PATRON OF ST DUNSTAN’S COLLEGE
An excerpt by Douglas Dales
The College has St Dunstan as its patron because it was originally founded in the fifteenth century in the parish of St Dunstan-in-the-East, in the City of London. St Dunstan was a monk, scholar, musician, and craftsman. He was also a statesman and he served as Archbishop of Canterbury for 28 years. In the tenth century, the foundations of medieval England were laid, which would endure until the Reformation and beyond. The names given to the houses in the College are each associated with important places and aspects of Dunstan’s career and legacy, which continue to inspire the Christian values and education being offered at the College today. The following is an excerpt from a booklet produced by the College, written by Douglas Dales. The full text can be found by following the QR code at the end.
GLASTONBURY
The earliest biography of Dunstan tells of his birth around the year 909 and of his education at Glastonbury early in the tenth century. His parents were farmers at Baltonsborough, a village nearby, and in those days, Glastonbury was largely surrounded by marshes and water, being virtually an island. There was an ancient wooden church there which was incorporated into an early stone monastery where Dunstan was educated by Irish scholars who lived there. It was a holy place of pilgrimage and prayer. Dunstan’s own spiritual life was nurtured by a royal holy woman who lived in Glastonbury, and he designed works of art for some of the convents of nuns in Wessex.
In 943, Dunstan was appointed to be the Abbot of Glastonbury in order to establish regular monastic life there according to the Rule of St Benedict. Benedict lived in the sixth century in Italy, and during the ninth and tenth centuries his Rule was widely adopted across Europe as
the norm of Benedictine monastic life. The royal family and the local aristocracy endowed this renewed monastery of Glastonbury with extensive lands, while Dunstan built a cloister and other buildings, some of the remains of which have been found by archaeology.
Manuscripts remain from that time which were at Glastonbury, some of which Dunstan corrected and added to: the most famous of these shows him kneeling at the feet of Christ; it is now in the Bodleian Library in Oxford. Dunstan was an educator and many monks went from Glastonbury later in the tenth century to create new monasteries and to serve as bishops and Archbishops of Canterbury.
He was also an artist and craftsman, making bells and other metal artefacts. He was remembered too for his musical gifts and there is plainchant music attributed to him.
MENDIP
Dunstan was born in the southwestern part of the Anglo-
Saxon kingdom of Wessex, and he may well have been related to that part of the royal family associated with King Athelstan, at whose court he grew up. This was often based at Cheddar where the foundations of a large wooden hall have been found.
The Mendip hills were an important source of silver and lead at this time, which provided steady wealth for the royal family and the local aristocracy. Trade also flowed from Somerset across the Severn Sea to Wales, Ireland, and Brittanny. It was in the island of Athelney in the fens near Glastonbury that King Alfred the Great had held out during his resistance to the Viking invasion and prior to his decisive victory over them at the Battle of Edington in 878.
Dunstan’s uncle had been Bishop of Wells but Dunstan was not always popular at court because of his intellectual and musical interests. He was viewed with suspicion by some of his schoolfriends, who on one occasion threw him into a muddy pond!
Later, during the reign of the next king, Edmund, there was a determined attempt to drive him away, perhaps because of his commitment to monastic life and the desire of some of the bishops to recreate regular monasteries in Wessex.
It is said that it was only when the king had a narrow escape while hunting above Cheddar Gorge that he had a change of heart and appointed Dunstan to be the reforming Abbot of Glastonbury. Otherwise, Dunstan might well have gone abroad to Germany and contributed to the revival of monastic life there.
THE MEMORY OF ST DUNSTAN
St Dunstan was greatly loved and revered by many in his own lifetime and he lived to a great age by the standards of his day. His burial place in Canterbury Cathedral soon became a shrine where people were often healed, and the date of his death on 19 May in 988 became a national festival, and it remains commemorated in the calendars of the Anglican and Catholic churches today.
When the Normans took over the country in 1066 there was a real danger that the memory of
Dunstan would be obscured or even suppressed, especially as the Anglo-Saxon cathedral at Canterbury was largely destroyed in a fire. But the second Norman archbishop of Canterbury, St Anselm, ensured that this did not happen, as he regarded Dunstan as a saint.
It was the murder of Thomas à Becket during the reign of Henry II that led to his tomb, rather than Dunstan’s, becoming the principal focus of pilgrimage and veneration at Canterbury Cathedral until Henry VIII destroyed it and suppressed all public commemoration of Becket during the Reformation. Monastic life in England was also destroyed by Henry VIII at that time in the sixteenth century and the great monasteries founded in the age of Dunstan fell into ruins after five hundred years of existence.
It was only towards the end of the nineteenth century that Bishop William Stubbs of Oxford published the Latin texts relating to Dunstan in The Memorials of St Dunstan in the Rolls series. This has been the foundation for a revival of Dunstan’s memory and an accurate
appreciation of his legacy by modern historians in time for his millennium in 1988. The College is therefore heir to a rich and unique tradition, and it is fortunate to be under the patronage of so important and exemplary a founder of English church, education, culture, and society.
This icon of St Dunstan, found in the Archives of the College, was drawn by a monk at the Monastery of the Caves in Kiev in 1991 as a sign of reconciliation between East and West. It is the first such image of the saint in the place of his birth since before the Reformation and was a gift of the mother monastery of the Russian Christianity to the place of its counterpart in England. It is drawn in the Byzantine style of the 10th Century.
Repairs to the Stained-Glass Windows
St. Dunstan is represented at school in the stained-glass window in the Great Hall, both as a monk and as Archbishop of Canterbury (see article on pages 18-19). The six panels underneath, depict the work of the blacksmith, the printer, the woodcarver, the stonemason, the goldsmith and the potter. These are the kinds of activity of which, it was thought, St. Dunstan would have approved of and in which he might have taken part, if he had lived in a later age.
The small portrait heads are some of the world’s great innovators. They are Homer and Phidias, Virgil and Herodotus, and below the six main pictures, Dante, Giotto, Chaucer, Raphael, Shakespeare and Beethoven. Right at the top are the arms of the city of London.
Flanking the figures of St. Dunstan are the arms and mottoes of some of the Governors of the Foundation who has been prominent in getting the new school built: Sir Reginald Hanson, Bart; Sir Owen Roberts; Alderman Sir James Ritchie, Bart; and Mr. Legge who was appointed in 1891 Bishop of Lichfield.
After 18 months of planning and thanks to the generosity of John Nightingale (’63) for funding a large invoice, deep repair work around the broken panels and the overall external structure of the Stained Glass was carried out off site before the Chaucer and the Raphael panels were re-installed around Easter time. The Stained Glass now looks absolutely magnificent and no doubt you will be pleased to hear that ball games are now forbidden directly outside the window.
Interestingly, St Dunstan has also been popping up everywhere we look in recent months: at the Bristol Reunion Lunch a few months ago, Brian Shrimpling ('60) told me that Dunstan was born in a small village called Baltonsborough in 909AD where there is a church and a memorial to his birthplace.
Isabelle Blake-James
Raphael before Raphael after restoration Chaucer before Chaucer after restoration
Thank you! A BIG DUNSTONIAN
We appreciate the Dunstonians who generously share their time, energy, and expertise to help The Dunstonian Association thrive. A sincere thank you to the following individuals for their invaluable contributions over the past 12 months whether it be by volunteering at our Higher Education Convention, taking part in one of our Opening Minds Lecture or simply giving advice to our Estate Team or our Wellness Centre Hub:
DUNSTONIAN CLASS OF DUNSTONIAN CLASS OF
Jaideep Israel '93
David Trew '76
Bijou Jordan '22
William Schembri '89
Isabelle Vicary '02
Andy Edwards '73
George Zarkos '20
Emily Redlick '17
Edmund Owen '91
Olanrewaju Falase '03
Henry Davies '89
David Bratby '74
Robert Earing '82
Douglas Dales '70
Leo Trenton '21
Frank Collingwood '66
Chris Pearse '76
Anna Lloyd '01
Edmund Owen '91
Yanoulla Kakoulli '01
Stephen Giddins '02
Andy Bennett '01
Mark Batchelor '01
Alex Grant '92
INTERESTED IN PARTICIPATING?
Whether you left St Dunstan’s in the past few years or several decades ago, we encourage you to get involved and give back by sharing your knowledge and expertise with the next generation.
We are always interested in hearing from Dunstonians who have something to offer to the Dunstonian community, so why not register your interest on sdconnect at www.dunstonians.org.uk. Thank you in advance.
Jaideep Israel
Anna Lloyd
Emily Redlick & Yanoulla Kakoulli
Battlefield tour
WW1 is one of the defining moments in world history – a period when global geo-political plates shifted, empires fell, new nations were born, technology and society evolved to meet imperatives of war - and also a time of intense personal suffering and tragedy for so many on the battlefield and for those waiting at home. Any visitor to the serried ranks of tombstones “known unto God” at Lijssenthoek or Tyne Cot cemeteries cannot help but be moved by the scale of sacrifice, but to visit the cemeteries and battlefields with an expert guide and in the company of fellow Dunstonians made for a far more informed, intensely powerful experience.
Our expert guide, Bob Shaw, produced an entire cabinet of maps to tutor us through both the causes and the course of the Great War, including detailed diagrams of individual engagements. He enlightened us about the role of women in nursing and on the home front. We heard inspirational stories of Edith Cavell and Nellie Spindler.
We climbed in trenches, learnt about the invention of the tank and developments in aerial warfare. We heard about military discipline and punishments, but also about welfare and entertainment. We experienced the peace and spiritual uplift of Tubby Clayton’s Toc H refuge for all ranks in Poperinge, a safe haven 10 miles beyond the front line in Ypres. We ourselves also enjoyed the odd convivial glass in good company.
We walked in the footsteps of Old Dunstonians, saw where they battled through the mud and laid wreathes on their graves. The emotional highlights of the trip were the Service of Remembrance in St George’s Memorial Church where we honoured 358 Old Dunstonians who fell in two world wars and the Menin Gate Ceremony. We felt so proud of all Dunstonian pupils past and present as our own Corps of Drums enjoyed the rare privilege of marching under the Menin Gate.
What a lot we managed to cram into just 3 days from leaving Catford early Friday to returning early evening on Sunday.
John Woolman (’76)
"An unforgettable, life changing experience. Extremely moving, while also joyful making friends with fellow alumna."
"Poignant, eye opening, very worthwhile, excellent company."
"A delightful group of people who entered into the spirit of the tour. A truly emotional and memorable trip."
CRICKET ROUND UP Sport
Cricket Report 2024
OD Cuaco CC has had a successful winter and is preparing for another exciting summer. Once again, the club entered the Kent Indoor competition and won the Metropolitan league for the 4th consecutive season, representing the area at the finals day in Canterbury and reaching the semi-finals. Winter nets have taken place weekly from January, with outdoor training sessions commencing in April and the first friendly fixtures scheduled for the 19th April before the league season commences in May.
In the adult section the club will enter 4 Saturday league sides, a Sunday League side and play weekly Sunday friendly fixtures from April
through to October, alongside an array of mid-week games and invitational games. The junior part of the club remains extremely well attended, with the club running 2 U11 teams, 3 at U13, and also a side in each of the U15 and U17 leagues.
Club membership remains high and social events are expected to be well attended once more. Fingers are well and truly crossed that the current balmy weather persists to enable another enjoyable season of cricket to commence shortly at St Dunstan’s Lane.
Andy Rouse Chairman OD CUACO Cricket Club
GOLF
Golf Society
Dear all,
It is with great excitement that I can announce the ODGS dates for 2025.
Early season we’ll be going ‘back to our roots’ enjoying local courses to both our academic and social homes of Catford and Beckenham respectively. The year will culminate in a new ‘going West’ tour location to Reading under the expert guidance of Mark Pearce.Then prizes will all be up for grabs come December at the Xmas Fayre.
We hope to continue our resurgence and affiliation with the school playing against pupils in honour of the late great Mr Grundy and with Danny’s expert leadership. We’ll be supported by the ODA in attempting to reach out to recent school leavers with financial incentives to join us whilst we’ll also hope to direct something towards our loyal ‘older’ (forgive me all but it’s in our title…for the time being-anyhow) stalwarts.
I look forward to seeing everyone in 2025.
Honorary Secretary 2025
In glorious sunshine and under a clear blue sky, nineteen players went to battle on the tight fairways and fast greens of Langley Park Golf Club. A stone's throw away from the OD headquarters at Park Langley invoking memories of historic displays of sporting prowess for the College and the ODs. A close competition ensued with the top five players within only two points of each other. The winning recipient of The Heaton Caffin trophy was Ian ‘Macca’ McKinnell scoring 35 points on his first outing with ODGS. Macca looks forward to seeing his name engraved on the trophy alongside all the previous winners dating back to the early 1950’s. In second place on 34 points was Mark Pearce, narrowly beating Neil Kerr on a countback. After some much needed rehydration on the sunny terrace and a hearty lunch only two players had the stamina to return to the course for some additional holes and a chance to win the Reardon-Wheeler Trophy. Jonny Aucamp and Ian Pressney
subsequently went head to head in a match play game over 9 holes fighting it out for the silverware. Playing at breakneck speed, ‘Elvis' went down the last hole one up but with all still to play for. However, Ian managed to win the last so emerged the victor winning two up.
Richard Bridges
Spring Event Assistant to Ian Pressney, ODGS Honorary Secretary
Dates for the Diary
Autumn tour: 9/10 September
The Caversham followed by Goring and Streatley GCs
Xmas Fayre: 2 December at Knole Park GC
Dunstonian
G olf Societ y
Langley Park Golf Club tournament:
RUGBY
ODRFC Interim March 2024
We have experienced a mixed season this year with some very impressive wins against the top teams to struggling to field a side on the long away trips. This hasn’t helped the league position as the RFU deem it necessary to deduct a team 5 points for not fielding a side which seems to rub added salt in the wound for teams that are struggling.
We are currently sat second to bottom in the league with one match to play that could define the season and either keep us in the current league or face the prospect of a further relegation. There is a further re-juggle of the league and as such we are still unsure how many teams may actually get demoted.
As with a number of local rugby clubs recruitment and playing numbers is proving challenging. The numbers of active players playing rugby seems to be dwindling certainly out our level of competitiveness.
This aside the team is full of many personalities who continue to enjoy the
Report from the U13 team
Team Overview
social aspect that the game has to offer which provides many lifelong friendships. This is demonstrated in the league lunches that have been sold out throughout the season.
As a club we are looking to spend some time on recruitment this summer and if there are any Dunstonians or friends that are currently playing or looking to playing rugby please get in touch at events@odrfc. co.uk
Our long standing Easter Tour is still very much a feature at the end of the season and will continue into its 89th trip to Cornwall this year playing Penryn, Falmouth and Truro. Again all are more than welcome so please feel free to contact the club for further details and information.
Lastly as reported in previous notes we are actively working on the junior section at the club.
Jeremy Scott Chairperson, ODRFC
Our goal is to run 2 competitive sides in the Kent Waterfall Cup offering training twice a week, with extra during holidays. The goal is to compete at the highest level we can, ensuring we have excellent quality training and fixtures. We want all our boys to learn the values the sport offers in a safe, friendly environment; hopefully making friends and having fun.
Coaching
Ubee's Match
A tribute rugby match was played for Phil Ubee ('71) on Saturday 12 April at Sidcup RFC, commemorating his services to rugby. Phil who sadly contracted Motor Neuron Disease recently joined up with members of ODRFC to watch a selected side that included his son, Michael.
Phil was at SDC and went on to Loughborough University subsequently playing for England U20. He then went on to play for Blackheath, Sidcup and of course for the ODs as captain. He was also the rugby coach at Chislehurst & Sidcup Grammar School, as well as coach to the ODs for many years until he was forced to retire in 2023. Needless to say that on a bright sunny Saturday, we were all able to join Phil and his wife Joy for a pint during the match, where he watched his son (current ODRFC Captain), score a try for the Invitation XV. The match was played in the style that Phil enjoyed so much as a player of distinction.
By 19 January 2025 £10,160 was raised with 96 supporters, in 55 days.
• Ellis Miller is our Lead Coach. RFU Level 2; currently studying for his level 3.
• An additional 7 parent-coaches who have a variety of playing and coaching experience/qualifications within the game.
• Mark Hutchinson is representing the team on the ODRFC Committee.
THE FUTURE OF PARK LANGLEY
OPTION 1
OPTION 2
Thank you to the many Dunstonians who attended our June 2025 meetings about the Future of Park Langley.
We are delighted with the feedback received so far and we are working hard behind the scenes to deliver on the project in a timely fashion. But as mentioned by Group CEO Nick Hewlett, we will need YOU!
The proposed timeline is:
• JUNE 2025: PROPOSALS FOR THE FUTURE OF PARK LANGLEY (Option 1/Option2)
• JULY-DECEMBER 2025: QUIET PHASE OF FUNDRAISING WITH CORNER STONE INVESTORS
• SEPTEMBER 2025: ONLINE CONSULTATION WITH THE WIDER DUNSTONIAN COMMUNITY AND ONSITE PRESENTATION TO THE CLUB'S EXTERNAL USERS
• JANUARY 2026: OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF THE PARK LANGLEY FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN
• AUGUST 2026: TELEPHONE CAMPAIGN
• SUMMER 2027: CONSTRUCTION STARTS (Est')
It is estimated that Option 1 will cost £1.5m, whilst Option 2 will cost £3m.
It is never too early to donate and for any pledge above £5,000 and potential naming rights associated with it, please email Director of Philanthropy, Isabelle Blake-James, at iblakejames@stdunstans.org.uk for an initial conversation.
Dunstonian Wall Refresh
We are thrilled to announce the successful revamping of the College’s waiting room, completed at the end of January.
As part of the update, The Dunstonian Wall has received a full refresh, with over 20 new names added to its already impressive roster. This wall continues to serve as a tribute to the remarkable achievements of our Dunstonians and the significant support they have given to the College in recent years. Many of these new additions have generously contributed their time or provided financial support to the College’s Bursary Fund.
From Charles Edward Kenneth Mees (1900), renowned scientist and photographer, to Izzy Mackie (2018), talented actress, the Wall celebrates the diverse and inspiring contributions of our alumni. It highlights their success across various fields and their ongoing commitment to the St Dunstan’s community. New additions include Matthew Witt (‘76), founder of Booking.com; Paul Thompson (‘85), founder of Waterbabies; Katie Hulland (‘98), engineer; Jeremy Prynne (‘55), poet; and John Nettledon
(‘47), actor; as well as many other Dunstonians. A special shoutout goes out to Ian Metcalfe (‘86) and his company, Serious Print Group, who refurbished our wall and brought this project to life!
We warmly invite you to visit us in the coming weeks and months. Whether for a coffee, a catch-up, or simply to see the updated wall, we’d love to welcome you back to the College.
Charles Edward Kenneth Mees FRS (26 May 1882-15 August 1960) was a British scientist and photographic researcher. Mees was born in Wellingborough, England, the son of a Wesleyan minister. He attended the University of London. In 1906, he was awarded his D.Sc. with a dissertation on photographic theory.
From 1906 until 1912, Mees worked for Wratten and Wainwright, Ltd., assisting Frederick Wratten in developing the first panchromatic photographic plates, as well as light filters and safelights for the darkroom.
In 1912, Eastman Kodak Company acquired Wratten and Wainwright because they were interested in the skills Mees provided. George Eastman convinced Mees to move to Rochester, New York, United States, where Mees created the Kodak Research Laboratories, becoming its first director.
Mees helped the US military in World War I in its instruction of photography. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, Mees became an American citizen so that he could have access to high security war projects and information during World War II.
Later, he was named vice president in charge of Research and Development for Eastman Kodak; he remained at that position until he retired in 1955.
During his career, he published 100 scientific papers and 60 other works. Among his accomplishments was the development of sensitive photographic emulsions for use in astronomy.
Mees served as the first president of the board of trustees of George Eastman House from 1947 until 1954. He died suddenly in Honolulu in 1960.
Charles Edward Kenneth Mees (1900)
RETURNING DUNSTONIANS
to their alma mater
It is always a pleasure when Dunstonians return to the College grounds for a tour, lunch and a chat. We recently welcomed back the following Dunstonians:
• Matthew D’Ancona (’85)
• John Sayers (’73)
• Peter Coombes (’74)
• Anna Lloyd (’01)
• John Nightingale (’63)
• Tom Fagg (’16),
• Max Ralston (’16)
• Francesca Thorogood (’16)
• Megan Snepvangers (’16)
• Stephen Bown (’61)
• Richard Fletcher (’66)
• Robin Finney (’67)
• Daniel Bushaway (’94)
John Sayers (’73)
Matthew D'Ancona ('85)
Peter Coombes (’74)
Anna Lloyd (’01)
John Nightingale (’63)
Stephen Bown (’61)
Tom Fagg (’16), Max Ralston (’16), Francesca Thorogood (’16), Megan Snepvangers (’16)
Richard Fletcher (’66)
Robin Finney (’67) from New Zealand
Daniel Bushaway (’94), from New Zealand
ANNA LLOYD ('01) PHILANTHROPY
DAY
It’s a pleasure to be with you today to talk about Philanthropy - to return to the Great Hall and a school which gave me so much in terms of education, fun and friendship. It is here that I took my GCSEs, A-levels, and on this stage that I performed in many school productions, and like you sat here for morning assemblies. So for me it’s a full circle moment, to be back here to share with you, essentially what my St Dunstan’s education gave me.
When I sat here as a teenager, I did not know what life would hold. I had dreams and ideas, but if I could talk to my teen self today, I would encourage her that all of the personality and passions and ideas and hopes she held then, are not that different to those she would have at university, and throughout adult life. The landscape changes, the culture shifts and contracts and reacts. But who you are now, your character, the things that bring you joy and motivate you to get up in the morning, they don’t really change.
Back then I was excited by and loved the arts - all things music, art and drama. I loved the community and fun and friendship those things brought, and I cared a lot about the people around me. And so my philanthropy journey began here, when I joined the school charity committee. The word philanthropy is a broad term encapsulating the words charity, giving, kindness, helping people. It comes from two Greek words - ‘philos’ meaning love for something, and ‘anthrōpia’ meaning humankind. So Philanthropy means ‘love of humanity - love for humankind’
It refers to acts and works for the good of others, expressing the compassion and motivation - the why - behind what
We shall be fundraising for Street Child in August 2025 with our Plaque to Plaque Charity Walk. Please book to join us at: www.dunstonians.org.uk/events
we are doing. My first independent, active experience of this was as part of the St Dunstan’s charity committee when we organised the ‘Crisis at Christmas’ talent show for the charity Crisis – fundraising for people in London who had nowhere to live- especially over Christmas. As a school we raised over £1000 and felt proud that we had made a difference by using the talents and resources we had to hand to help others. (And it was fun I always encourage fundraisers to remember what the first three letters of the word Fundraising are!).
Fast forward to today and I am proud to be Head of Community Engagement and Fundraising for the international children’s charity Street Child. Street Child was founded by friends of mine 16 years ago when we lived just down the road in Blackheath. We started by helping 100 children in Sierra Leone – the then the poorest country in the world. Since then, the growth and impact of this charity has done more than I could have ever have imagined, and I feel proud to have witnessed it’s journey from an idea amongst friends around the kitchen table to being an organisation which has helped over 1.5 million children across more than 25 countries.
Here's a short film to show you a bit more about Street Child, and I look forward to working with you today to look at and explore ideas and thoughts around philanthropy and charity.
Plaque to Plaque Charity Walk
Newbury
Spotlight on...
year as Mayor of Newbury, I was lucky enough to be appointed Portfolio Holder for Culture, Leisure, Sport and Countryside at West Berkshire Council in May of last year. Consequently, I am now busier than I think I have ever been in my life, but it is a pleasure and a privilege!
“ “
I had the privilege of being Mayor of Newbury in Berkshire, for the civic year 2023 -2024. The first Mayor of Newbury was appointed by Queen Elizabeth I in 1597, so I was one of the latest in a very long line, the 427th I think!
I studied dentistry at Newcastle University after leaving St Dunstan's in 1974. During my 40 years as a dentist, I trained to be an Endodontic Specialist (that's root canal treatment/therapy) after gaining an MSc in Endodontology from the University of London in 1994. In 1997, I gained my Membership in Dental Surgery at the Royal College of Surgeons, London, in 1997. Consequently, my qualifications were: BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) University of Newcastle upon Tyne; MSc (University of London); and Membership in Restorative Dentistry, Royal College of Surgeons, London (MRDRCS, Eng).
I retired in December 2019 and following my dental career, got into local politics and was lucky enough to be elected as a Liberal Democrat Town Councillor for Newbury in 2019. I was then re-elected as a Town Councillor and West Berkshire District Councillor at the local elections in 2023. After I finished my
I started at St. Dunstan’s College at age eight in the prep department. I remember the Headmaster, Mr. W.R. Hecker, was a stern figure; he always wore his gown and did not seem to know how to smile. At least, that was the impression that he gave to a small new boy.
I remember walking to school from Orpington and catching multiple trains to Catford. I was very soon doing this journey on my own, although, at the station, I would meet a few other pupils who were doing the same. This is certainly not what would happen these days, when children are only eight years old!
After three years in the prep department, I succeeded in passing the 11+ examination and made lasting friendships, especially with Eric Marsh, Ian Benstead, and others.
I also developed an interest in music, learning the flute with Paddy Purcell and joining the school orchestra. One of my fellow musicians was Dave Gelly, a talented clarinetist who later became a professional jazz player, newspaper critic and presenter on BBC Radio.
Though I wasn’t allowed to play sports until I was ten due to medical reasons, I eventually participated in rugby and became house captain of Thomas House, following Dave Gelly.
My German teacher was Eric Dickins. After I left the school, he produced a textbook that was widely used by German teachers for A level study. I suspect that during my time in his class, he was trying out ideas for inclusion in this book. He was an excellent teacher and was the person I am most indebted to for my successful admission to Oxford and subsequent career teaching German.
I also had a memorable experience with the CCF (Combined Cadet Force) and once oversaw an exercise for the CCF when the Guest of Honour for Speech Day, Viscount Montgomery of El Alamein, visited the school in 1957.
I took three O Levels (Maths, English, and Latin), focusing on languages, which set the stage for my A Levels in French, German, and Latin. After school, I applied to several universities and was accepted by Cambridge, Oxford, Bristol, and Durham, ultimately choosing New College, Oxford.
I spent a year traveling and working before going to Oxford in 1959. After my three years at Oxford, I got married and took my PGCE at the Institute of Education in London. Then we moved to Pakistan, where, supported by the British Council, I taught English in Peshawar for four years. Eventually, I returned to England with two very young sons, both born in Rawalpindi, and I began teaching at a public school in Taunton. I taught German and French for nineteen years and ran one of the boarding houses. Later, I ended my career as the Head of School in Penzance. I now live near Truro in Cornwall.
Should anyone like to get in touch, feel free to contact my email at: ian_halford@live.co.uk
OD LODGE 5662
Consecrated 24 September 1937
Freemasonry
Freemasonry is one of the oldest secular, social and charitable organisations in the world. It provides a structure for members to come together under the common goals of integrity, friendship, respect and service, enabling people to make new friendships, develop themselves and make valuable contributions to charity. Freemasonry is one of the largest contributors to charitable causes in the UK, with almost £1m donated per week!
At our January meeting, Old Dunstonians Lodge 5662 were delighted to welcome as a new member Peter Broughton-Rates (’97) and we are very much looking forward to hosting a black-tie dinner in the Great Hall on 29 November 2025 open to non-members. We would especially like to welcome Dunstonians to enjoy what we’re sure will be a fantastic and memorable evening. More news to follow soon!
For any further details please contact Stephen Hugkulstone (’04) at stephenhugkulstone@gmail.com
David Dobby ('54)
Dunstonian David Dobby (’54) has written a book - The Conduitwhich explores the historical relationship of freemasonry with the foundation of Golf Clubs between 1600 and 1900. It can be purchased at www. austinmacauley.com/book/the-conduit.
Ian Halford ('51)
Roger
I enjoyed reading the Notes, and while many changes have occurred since 1963, I'm glad the Corps of Drums has survived and now wears red tunics—something we never thought possible!
As I recall, from third form onwards, all pupils joined the CCF unless parents opted out. On CCF days, we wore the heavy woolen battledress introduced in WW2, which was itchy, with an equally itchy shirt, and leather boots with hobnails. The Army section was the most popular, though a small Royal Navy section existed.
I was interested in military history and became Orderly Room Colour Sergeant, responsible for weekly Orders on an ancient typewriter. I also played in the Corps of Drums, then known as ‘the Band,’ which was a drum and bugle band, though it had once been a drum and flute band. We rehearsed every Friday under Mr. Stocking, for some reason known as ‘Nellie,’ who looked after CCF stores.
One highlight of the year was the Founders Day service at Southwark Cathedral, where the CCF marched through the City. I once dropped a drumstick on London Bridge, but it was later returned, bent from being run over by a bus!
After school, I worked as an Insurance Broker in the City and joined the Honourable Artillery Company (HAC) as a Drummer. I served for 19 years and was able to take extra leave for training. During my service, I traveled to Germany, Malta, Cyprus, the USA, and Gibraltar.
When too old for the Army, I joined the HAC's Company of Pikemen and Musketeers, which represents the Company as it was in 1640. We are the Lord Mayor's ceremonial guard and participate in City events like the Lord Mayor's Show. I am now the longest-serving member of the P&M and play the drum and fife as required.
In 1977, I helped form The Corps of Drums Society to preserve the drum and flute tradition. Corps of Drums were not part of the military music establishment, and many regiments had stopped using flutes. As Hon. Secretary for nine years, I contributed to publishing the Infantry Drummers' Handbook in 1985, still available today.
I would love to visit the school when the Drums are rehearsing for a parade and meet the Drum Major and training staff.
“ Interview with Yasmin Bradshaw Head of School
What does being Head Girl mean to you and how has it shaped your experience at St Dunstan’s?
To me, being Head Girl is an incredible honour and a responsibility which has allowed me to grow in confidence and develop my leadership skills. In year 7, I never would have imagined being in a role like this as I was the type of child who would never put myself forward for things and definitely wouldn’t take on a leadership role in any activity! Being Head Girl has really changed my character, making me more involved in school life and able to leave here, knowing that I’ve made the most of my time.
How would you describe the school community at St Dunstan's?
In my opinion, St Dunstan’s has a very warm and inclusive community which has given me a real sense of belonging. Everyone is so friendly and there’s a variety of people with lots of different interests which makes it really easy to find people you get along with. I also think that both the teachers and your classmates are so supportive, which creates an environment where you can feel comfortable to take risks, explore your interests and just be yourself.
What traditions or events at the school do you find particularly special, and why?
I would say I find the school plays particularly special. They are amazing to watch, with incredible acting and sets. I love watching them especially when my friends are acting and a few of my recent highlights would have to be ‘The Cherry Orchard’ and ‘Les Misérables’.
Have any teachers or mentors had a significant impact on your journey as Head Girl? If so, how?
Several teachers have guided and inspired me, but in particular Mr Brewer has been a great mentor. He has given a lot of advice and encouragement and has made me feel confident in this role. He has especially helped me with my public speaking, taking the time to refine my speeches and push me to present myself with confidence.
What responsibilities do you have as Head Girl?
My responsibilities include representing the student body and communicating with staff about any issues or concerns students may have. I also represent the school at various events, delivering speeches on occasions like Open Day and leading prayers or reciting poems for ceremonies such as Remembrance Day and the Christmas Carol Service.
Is it challenging to balance academics and leadership responsibilities?
Balancing this role with my studies has been a challenge, but it has taught me to manage my time well and to be resilient. I have
realised that I cannot do everything myself and that it important to have a healthy balance between academics and leadership responsibilities, so I often delegate tasks to other prefects and have learnt that prioritising things is key and that you can’t do everything yourself!
What do you think makes St Dunstan's unique compared to other schools?
I think there are two main things which make St Dunstan’s unique. First, the inclusive and friendly community is something that I know you don’t find in a lot of other schools. Here, everyone is welcomed and included, and I feel as though I could go up to anyone and have a friendly conversation.
The second thing that makes St Dunstan’s unique is their emphasis on extra-curricular. The school isn’t just about academics, it’s about pursuing your other passions too, whether it be sport or music, there are so many opportunities to get engaged in different activities, which is so important for the future, where life won’t be just about whether you can solve algebra or write an English essay.
As you approach graduation, what are your plans for the future, and how has being Head Girl influenced those plans?
Next year, I am going to do an Art foundation in Paris because I love languages and Art, and this is the perfect opportunity to combine both! This is something I would have never even dreamed of doing before being Head Girl, out of fear that I might not speak good enough French or that I will be too far away from home. Having this leadership role has made me realise that I can do anything when I put my mind to it. This role has often made me step outside my comfort zone, with having to speak in front of hundreds of prospective students on open days and having to read prayers in huge Churches with large audiences. From these experiences, I have gained so much confidence that I feel I can live in Paris alone, with excitement rather than fear, knowing that I will have an incredible time!
If you could describe your school experience in three words, what would they be? Inspiring, supportive, fulfilling.
St Dunstan's College & St Christopher's The Hall
Suzanne wrote for the Centenary of St Christopher’s in 1992:
St Christopher’s The Hall in Beckenham joined St Dunstan’s Education Group in January 2025. Little did we know, not only was acclaimed author Enid Blyton the Head Girl in the 1920s, but the Newton family also had a longstanding association with the School.
Mark Newton ('77) writes:
“I have read this update with great interest. The Newton family has a specific interest in the forthcoming connection with St Christopher’s. Our mother, Suzanne, was the Headmistress at St Christopher’s from 1976 until her retirement in 1985. Suzanne is the wife of John Newton, who attended SDC as a pupil, leaving in 1945. He returned to teach at SDC, remaining until 1969. Suzanne is also the mother of Tim (’69), Philip (’73), and myself, Mark (’77).
Suzanne aged 95 and living in a residential care home in Edgbaston, Birmingham, close to me and my wife. I will let her know about this exciting link between the two schools, and I’m sure she’ll be delighted to hear about it.”
“My first connection with St Christopher’s was in the early 1950s. My husband was an English master at St Dunstan’s College. His Head of Department was Basil Harvey, husband of Helen Harvey, the Speech & Drama teacher at St Christopher’s, so in those days there was a most creative collaboration between the two schools when the girls were invited to take part in the St Dunstan’s school play. These girls were super and highly talented and, several years later, made drama their career. It was my job to help with the costumes and choreography where needed. The girls always cried on the last night, which was a very emotional occasion! Little did I think that, twenty-five years later, I would become Headmistress of their old school!
I had trained for five years at Leicester College of Art to become an Art Teacher. After one year’s teaching in Kent, I got married and took ten years off to bring up a family of three boys, returning to teaching in 1961. After two terms at Greenhayes Preparatory School, West Wickham, I became an Art Teacher at Prendergast Grammar School, later becoming Head of the Department of Art and Needlework. I feel that this background was an admirable training for a Headmistress of St Christopher’s! A jack of all trades! From the beginning, in 1976, I also taught Needlework and later Art in the senior school. Again, we made all the costumes for the school plays. I found that the dramatic tradition at St Christopher’s was undiminished.
At the retirement of my predecessor, Mrs Grove, the Senior Mistress, Mrs Brakey, also retired after many years’ service to the school. I was somewhat at a loss without their expert guidance. However, Mrs Adams was a pillar of strength and the secretaries, Mrs Brewster and Mrs Judge, helped me around the complexities of the office system. At the end of the first year, I asked Mrs Light, who taught French, to be the Senior Mistress; a position she held until her retirement. Later, she became Mrs Harris (having remarried) and I owe her a great debt of gratitude for her loyal support (I am sure it was not always easy) for what I was trying to do in the school.
When I arrived, I found strong parental involvement, but no formal PTA. This was soon formed as the St Christopher’s Association. There were, at that time, two major social events. The first was a formal
dance where long dresses and dinner jackets were worn. The other was the St Christopher’s May Fair. The latter not only involved the current school, parents and governors but also past Headmistresses and friends of the school, some of whom travelled, annually, long distances to give their support.
In the early ‘80s it was agreed that the Science facilities in the school were no longer adequate. The existing laboratory was said to have earlier been a bedroom where Dr Johnson slept on a visit to the Cator family, the first owners of the house. An appeal was launched, which involved many extra fundraising activities, such as antique fairs, an auction, raffles and a sponsored spelling competition to raise the large amount of money needed. At that time, the grass tennis courts were also sold, Holmoaks flats were built on the site and the school drive was cleared and improved.
Following this fundraising campaign, the new labs were opened and a new junior classroom. As Enid Blyton had been Head girl of St Christopher’s in 1914, we named the new classroom after her and Dr Anthony Claire (the regular psychiatrist on the BBC’s "In the psychiatrist’s chair”) formally opened the labs.
During this period the provision for under 5s increased. In addition to our original Kindergarten, we took in Little Kerrywood and Old Dunstonian Playgroups when they closed. The old original School Hall was one of the rooms used ever since for those classes.
It is not possible here to mention all those members of staff who served in the school in my time, but I would like to record here my sincere thanks to them for their
collaboration and support.
In retirement, I have missed the day-to-day contact with staff and pupils alike but not the noise! As the years go on, I am most heartened to hear how well past members of the school are doing in later life and am most pleased when they (or their parents) stop to have a chat. St Christopher’s has always been a very special place. This is recognised by the pupils but, sometimes, not until they have left. The biggest compliment is when they send their own children to be educated there, and life goes on!”
Yet further connections between Suzanne, SDC and St Christopher’s include:
• Suzanne’s right-hand woman at St Christopher’s was Karen Young, wife of Ross Young, a prominent member of the Old Dunstonian Rugby Football Club from the 1970s onward. Karen provided outstanding practical and moral support to Suzanne in running the school with great efficiency.
• Even after the dramatic collaboration between St Christopher’s and St Dunstan’s ended, Suzanne remained involved in St Dunstan’s productions. As she mentioned, she continued to offer her expertise in choreography, costume design, and millinery for many years, including helping me achieve a more feminine appearance as Goneril in Martin Preston’s production of King Lear!
Post Scriptum: We sadly heard that Suzanne passed away on 11 June 2025, after suffering a stroke. All our thoughts and prayers are with the Newton family.
Tim Allardyce ('98), an alumnus of St Christopher's The Hall and St Dunstan's College
The Archives Corner
Our Archivist at the College, Shea Hollis (nee Luke, '01) with updates on the latest additions to the archives collection at St Dunstan's College
Fire
plaque
When John Sayers (‘73) visited the College in February, he spotted a lead plaque with the initials SDE on the wall.
Although we knew it had come from St Dunstan in the East, we did not know the lead was in fact a ‘’fire mark’’. Those appeared in 17th century England following the Great Fire of London in 1666.
A few entrepreneurs established fire insurance companies for English home and business owners and presumably churches too. The insurance companies created their own fire departments to respond to fires at their clients' properties. All before the London Fire Brigade!
Young Archivists
Our Archivist has been working on an exciting project to update the artefacts in the Timeline exhibition which many of you will have seen in the main corridor. It was originally curated by a former Archivist and whilst being incredibly evocative for Dunstonians and fascinating to current students, it is time for a refresh. As this project will reflect the College heritage from its origins right up to modern day, we involved a group of students in the process of choosing Artefacts.
Over the course of four weekly sessions, a group of 12 Year 9 students met with Shea Hollis ‘01, our Archivist, and delved into the history of a huge selection of artefacts, spanning 400 years. The students, all members
of the Museum Forder Club, had fantastic insights, brilliant feedback and inspiring ideas. Thanks to their involvement, we are able to show off some outstanding items not seen outside of the Archive room before. Some exciting pieces include an original London Brick from the building of the College, a First World War prayer book belonging to a Dunstonian killed in action aged 20 and Boater hats from the 1950s, signed by pupils.
The students loved seeing how these items relate to practices today and how our College heritage shapes us. It is always inspiring to witness the cycle of history taking place at the school, and we look forward to sharing the completed project with you after the summer.
Donated by Christopher Taylor
We were so lucky to have been gifted a treasure trove of memorabilia, donated by the College’s former Modern Languages teacher in the 70s, Christopher Taylor.
Mr Taylor was then inspired to attend the Bristolian Reunion where further memories were shared. You will notice earlier brochures for Thanksgiving, Speech Day and The Service of Nine Lessons and Carols.
Donated by Ian Halford ('51)
Ian originally contacted the Archivist looking for records of Masters in the 40s and 50s to aide him in the writing of an article of his memories (extracts are included in this edition of The Notes). Meanwhile, during this research, Mr Halford uncovered a great many wonderful artefacts which he kindly sent to us at the college, including...
1. Staff members and details about the School. No date, but possibly 1946/8.
2. Speech Day programmes, together with some details about the Music Concerts performed. Programmes from 1948,1950,1951,1952, 1954,1957.
Ian writes: “I notice that our surname features in some of them for prizes or CCF certificates. In 1957, my brother received the Music Prize from Viscount Montgomery and I showed him one of the activities that the CCF was demonstrating for visitors.”
You will notice that the Music Programmes were printed on paper larger than the standard A4 used today.
3. Letters 1945 and 1946 - my parents' initial enquiries about entry.
4. Various letters. One [not dated] offering me a place at the school, together with school details [July 1947], one, in 1950, offering me a free place, following the 11+ examination and another in 1952 concerning promotion to the Upper School and necessary choice between joining the linguistic, the scientific or the modern stream. Finally, a letter dated April 1958 acknowledging that I would be leaving the school.
5. Some receipts for school fees payments [£16 per term], for termly payments of 2/- [two shillings] to the Benevolent Fund and payments for lunches of £3.10s per term. Finally, details and a receipt for school clothing from Josiah Messent, the school outfitters.
6. And finally, details of the three school visits arranged by members of staff to Italy, Austria and Germany. It is interesting to read in 1957 that Eric Dickins wrote to parents to seek their agreement to charge an extra £1 for the holiday!
Arthur Laurie Thomas Research Update
In the Summer '24 edition of The Notes, we told you about the journey of Robert Waterhouse and his son, Thomas, to follow in the footsteps of Dunstonian Arthur Laurie Thomas ('13), former two-time Head Boy who was killed due to action in the First World War. Mr Waterhouse, though not directly related, is a friend of the Thomas family and named his son in the memory of Arthur and his brother, Dunstonian Frank Thomas ('05.)
Robert Waterhouse has been researching the brothers' lives and service and we were delighted to welcome him to our Remembrance Day service in November (see the Winter ‘24 Notes). Mr Waterhouse has been helping the Archivist with her own research on these extraordinary brothers and so she was delighted when an original copy of the book Frank wrote about Arthur was unearthed in the Archive, believing we did not have one.
The memoir was published by Oxford University press in 1920 (both men studied there after St Dunstan's) and a hundred copies were printed for family and friends. The copy in the archive was the one presented to the College Library in 1920. It will now be treasured and used to deepen our appreciation of these young brothers who gave so much.
Howard Lake ('84)
Longtime Dunstonian supporter Howard Lake ('84) sent in an unnamed package containing a copy of the Prizegiving Programme from 1984.
We traced it to Mr Lake who later sent a veritable goldmine of artefacts and documents, many of which we had not seen before. These included a Cigarette Card from a series made featuring key schools, Commemoration day Charter Train ticket stubs and School Disco Tickets, including the one in 1979 hosting the Capital Roadshow (right).
Archives Give a Helping Hand
The Archives are invaluable to everybody at our school, including the Estates Team! An Estates team member, Mark Bacon, consulted some old building plans to gain a better perspective on an upcoming project.
1970s Commemoration Day Charter train tickets, recently donated to the College Archive by Howard Lake ('84)
Archives Open Day
On Thursday 3 April 2025, the Dunstonian Association welcomed back a group of Dunstonians and family for Archives Day, an event brimming with memories and connections.
The day started with an insightful tour led by David Edwards ('83), who offered a glimpse into the College's rich past. Dunstonians were then invited to sift through a collection of old photographs, school memorabilia, and other valued artefacts, ranging from old chronicles and 1970s cricket team photos to images of play performances such as 'A Winter's Tale'
The Archives Day was a beautiful celebration of the enduring bond between our past and present community of Dunstonians. We would like to give a heartfelt thank you to all who attended and contributed, helping to make this event a resounding success!
Philip Crockett writes:
"I should like to thank your team for the excellent visit on 3 April. It was really good to look round the school and see what has changed and what remains very similar to when I was there in the late 1950s. The new buildings are most impressive and I hope more practical than Hecker's hyperbolic paraboloid, though it is still standing unlike several others. I was particularly interested to see photos of the school productions of Julius Caesar and The Merchant of Venice for both of which I was Stage Manager under Mr.Greenaway."
Announcements
Obituaries
1950s
Colin B Smith ('52)
C.B. Smith (’52), brother of N.B. (Nobby) Smith (’59) and the late P.B. Smith (‘46), passed away in March this year aged 92. Colin’s early years at St Dunstan’s were disrupted by evacuations during WW2, firstly to Reigate and then to South Wales.
After serving in Malaya during his National Service, he went on to study civil engineering at Imperial College and became a structural engineer based initially in London and later in Basingstoke. Of the many projects he was involved with, modifications to the Royal Festival Hall and Terminal 3 at Heathrow probably dominate his record. Colin served on his local council for several years, respected for, among other qualities, the engineering precision he brought to the role.
After retiring, he and his wife moved to Diss in Norfolk where he contented himself with playing indoor bowls and raising money for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (characteristically declining an award recognising his efforts). His wife died in 1999; he is survived by his son, grandson and younger brother.
Peter Setchell-Smith ('59)
We have received news that Peter SetchellSmith (1941-2025) passed away at the age of 84 on 10 June 2025. He was an active Dunstonian for many years and very involved in the Dunstonian Cricket Club.
Honouring Ian Davenport ('76)
The Davenport family came back to the College on 2 April for the unveiling of a remembrance bench in honour of their father Ian Davenport (‘76) who passed away in 2023. Lucinda ('11), Edward ('09) and Jemima ('14) came back together with their other halves and children, and their mother Kim, of course. The sun was shining and it could now have been a more beautiful day to remember Ian. The bench has been positioned where Ian would have stood watching numerous rugby matches.
From Kim Davenport: "Ian had a long connection with the college, from being a pupil on an assisted place, then a parent and finally a Governor. St Dunstan’s meant a lot to him so we felt it fitting that he was remembered with a bench by the old 2nd XV rugby pitch and our donation would go to help local pupils through the Bursary Fund. We would alike to thank you and Hannah for the wonderful party you organised for Ian’s bench unveiling. We had a great time despite the wind although in some ways it made it more memorable. The bench is fantastic and the solid base makes it so permanent and grounded, just like Ian."
1960s
Stuart Adlington (’62)
We were notified of Stuart passing away by his daughter Polly in January 2025. Although Stuart’s year to leave St Dunstan's was 1962 he left in December 1961, as he had received an Army scholarship: he took an early intake to Sandhurst in January 1962. He retired to Bruton in Somerset.
Peter Coling
A full obituary is being prepared by his son Tom and will be available for our Winter edition of The Notes.
David Norris (former staff 1966-2000)
We have been notified that David Norris, the long serving Head of English at SDC, passed away in France on 11 May 2025 at the age of 81.
Martin Blocksidge (Former staff 1990-2001) writes:
David spent all his working life at St. Dunstan's, an impressive (and impressively active) 34 years. During that time he had, in roughly chronological order (and doubtles among other things) been housemaster of Griffiths, Careers Master, master in charge of fencing, an officer in the RN section, ChaIrman of the Staff Common Room, Head of English and Senior Tutor. He had also been the guiding force behind the first Catford Arts Festivals.
These are, of course, merely the barebones. Generations of Dunstonians benefitted from David's guidance, wisdom and tolerance. He was always prepared to go the extra mile or more. For example, he gave for several years much of his own time to coach candidates for Oxbridge entrance.
He was happy to take A' level Drama students to productions, sometimes driving them home afterwards. As a teacher of English he was both loved and respected: erudite, sympathetic and witty. David's sense of humour was famous, accompanying him wherever he went and often, like a mischievous dog, making an unexpected appearance and not afraid occasionally to show its teeth. It was for this reason that David became SDC's unofficial public orator, always on hand to make speeches when required, for example, for leaving staff.
David surprised many people by his decision to retire to Brittany. It was actually a very good decision and David had an enjoyable Indian summer in Dinard, where he became a popular and sociable figure amongst both the native and expat communities.
For all his elan, David was an unassuming character, and he would be surprised by the love and warmth with which he is remembered.
From Sir Anthony Seldon (Former Staff & Deputy Head):
“David Norris was completely and utterly unique. The word genius is overused, but not in his case. He was a genius, at language, wit, teaching, empathy, intuition, erudition and friendship. He was frighteningly clever. He always knew what you were going to say before you said it. He loved St Dunstans, and enriched it beyond measure. We shall not see his like again.”
ST DUNSTAN’S COLLEGE LEGACY FUND Help Us Shape Young Lives
For many, the years spent at school are some of the most significant and life-changing of times. This is particularly true at St Dunstan’s College whose vibrant community of past students, parents and teachers remain connected to the school, and are passionate about its continued success.
By giving a legacy gift to St Dunstan’s in your Will, you will be helping us to continue to give the best education to future students, and you will continue to be part of the St Dunstan’s story.
There are different types of gifts you can make in your Will, including giving a specified amount or the remaining part of your estate after providing for your family and other responsibilities. Gifts that are free from restrictions are particularly helpful, allowing the College to invest wherever our need is greatest. Or you may wish your gift to support our bursaries programme to give opportunities to those would otherwise be unable to benefit from a St Dunstan’s education.
Whatever you choose, your Will is an important and personal document and we recommend you contact your solicitor, either to draft your will or a codicil to your existing Will.
Please download a Legacy Pledge Form from the College's website at: www.stdunstans.org.uk/development
THE ALBAM EXORNA LEGACY SOCIETY
For those who wish to join us and be recognised publicly, you will become a member of the Albam Exorna Society.
An annual lunch for all members will be a time to celebrate your generosity as well as share memories from your time at the College with like minded Dunstonians.
You will also receive regular updates on how legacies are making a significant difference to the life of students at the College as well as be invited to special events such as Commemoration Day and Remembrance Day.
Membership of the Society is entirely optional - we understand you may wish to keep your intention private.
Since 2020, we have received £650K in legacies and a further £1.4m in legacy pledges.
Legacies have become the backbone of our fundraising and we are delighted to announce that we are working closely with local firm of Solicitors, Judge & Priestley (J&P) and their Probate Department where Dunstonian Emily Redlick ('17) works.
J&P can be found in Bromley, Beckenham, Blackheath, Chester, Sidcup and central London.
Dunstonians will receive preferential rates if they decide to instruct J&P to write their standard Will. Please email development@stdunstans.org.uk to find out more.
SDC NEWS
‘Les Miserables’ performance earns four NSTA nominations
In March 2025, St Dunstan’s College Senior School gave a riveting performance of ‘Les Miserables,’ earning them four award nominations with the National School Theatre Awards. The production, which 20 Dunstonians attended, was nominated for Best Musical, Best Student Lighting Design, Best Actor in a Musical and Best Actress in a Musical. Well done to all, we wish you all a very relaxing summer.
Athenaeum Dinner
On Friday 6 June 2025, twenty former Heads and Deputy Heads spanning seven decades gathered for dinner at The Athenaeum Club on Pall Mall. It was a chance for Group CEO Nick Hewlett to meet with new Dunstonians, catch up with familiar faces spanning his headship at the College as well as share his vision for the future of St Dunstan's. And of course,
an opportunity for like minded charismatic Dunstonians to meet each other for the first time for some.
Well done to the 2011 and 2021 top team for coming as a complete set and for Xin Shackleton ('22) for being the youngest Head of School coming back whilst Peter Cox-Bisham ('64) was the wisest. Thank you all for coming!
Corps of Drums Performance
On Saturday 8 February 2025, The St Dunstan’s College Corps of Drums hosted a joint charity concert with the Central Band of the Royal British Legion. Held in the Great Hall, the concert was an overwhelming success, with incredible musicians uniting to fundraise in support of the Royal British Legion.
House Music Competition
Emotions ran high last night in The Great Hall when Glastonbury and Worcester were crowned joint winners in this year’s House Music Competition. Thank you to the former Head of School, Piotr Burda-Zwolinski(‘21) for being the College’s external judge. Piotr is in his final year at the Royal College of Music as a violinist and many of you will remember listening to him perform while at St Dunstan’s. Well done to all our competitors!
Royal Navy Leadership Course
On Saturday 1 Feb, the College CCF Senior Cadet Leadership Course run by the current Naval Section I/C, Cdr Ed Main (76), were delighted to welcome David Trew (76) along to provide a ‘medical profession’ perspective on the topic of Leadership.
David kindly joined during the morning session and undoubtedly livened the programme recounting his background as an OD and his time in the profession as a consultant eye surgeon. The questions from the Cadets inevitably moved to more detailed discussion on eye surgery with a few attendees eventually looking a little ‘green around the gills’ as a result! Many thanks to David for giving up his time and giving a very wellreceived session based on his professional career.
Girls' Football Success
This month, St Dunstan’s College is delighted to be celebrating historic success in girls’ football. In the Senior School, our girls have made two national finals including the ISFA U12s and ISFA U15s.
Both our girls' squads have had a fantastic season, and the cup runs have elevated the status of St Dunstan's girls' football on a national level. Our Junior School girls also had victory in their Girls’ U9s local tournament. Amazing work, girls!
Heads of School Honours Board
We are proud to present a new addition to The Great Hall – these wooden boards, back up in their full glory, display the names of Head Students from 1995 to present day. It is an honour to preserve a longstanding tradition and celebrate students who held this respected position over the years. These boards not only pay homage to the leadership of these remarkable students but also to our enduring values of Courage, Creativity, Confidence, Compassion and Curiosity that St Dunstan's continues to uphold. As we look to the future, we reflect on the legacy of those who helped shape the College, and we are incredibly excited for generations to come. For those of you who were Head Prefects and do not see your name, fear not, your board is saved in the Archives and will be put up shortly!
CCF Dinner
On Saturday 21 June, 6 Dunstonians joined the magnificent College's annual CCF Dinner in the Great Hall with current Cadets and their families: Ed Main ('76), Babette Radclyffe-Thomas ('07), Ian Burgess (Former Staff), Aliya Foster ('14) and guest and Richard Davis ('74). Thank you all for coming and to Ed for looking after everybody on the night, as well as heavily sponsoring the event in order to enable the young Cadets to attend. It was a superb evening, organised by Contingent Commander, Richard Davies, who was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel on the night by the guest of honour, Brigadier Anthony Lamb.
Beating of the Bounds
A valiant handful of Dunstonians attended this year’s Beating of the Bounds on Ascension day, around the Parish of St Dunstan in the East. The Battle with the Tower has been postponed till 2026. Watch this space!
COMMEMORATION DAY SOUTHWARK CATHEDRAL
Homily from Canon Colin Boswell “
Last week I spent some days staying in a religious community in Brugge which is a very beautiful city. I was staying with a group of people from the church in a Benedictine monastery which may not sound the height of luxury, but it was a very lovely setting, and we had a very good time. I am sad to report that my Flemish has not much improved. When in Brugge, I began to think about the whole business of living in a community, that is living alongside other people and spending a great deal of time in the company of others. I was of course in a religious community where the brothers spend their whole loves together, however, we too are a community gathered in this wonderful cathedral here this morning but mostly together in our school buildings.
The Community of St Dunstan’s brings us together as many different parts of the whole. It is all then separate parts that make the whole. Here today we have pupils, including prefects, staff both teaching and support, we have Heads of Houses, the Chapel Choir, the Brass Ensemble, Readers, those leading our prayers, the Junior School Choir, Dunstonians, Governors, Donors to the College. This is quite a list, and all these several parts make up the College and the foundation. This is the community to which in some way we all belong.
At the beginning of the service, a list of
names was read out. A list dating back to 1408. These people were generous in their support of the school and to some ex-tent are the reason we are able to be here today; the reason we have the College and are able to benefit from its life.Community depends on much of what I believe makes St Dunstan’s a special place.
You live alongside each other and you are all individuals and therefore you are dif-ferent from each other. This College has always, as long as I have known it, celebrated difference. Different personalities, different skills, gifts, abilities, dreams, hopes and difference in a great deal more.
For a community to be healthy, difference is not a thing to fear or even worse, reject; but rather something that gives a vital new adventure to being human and ex-ploring the endless possibilities we can gain from things which are new. To you young members of this community, this is perhaps more true for you than others; this is the time for discovery, for trying new things, for chancing it, for having a try. It is of course a risk and you might fail but that will help you learn. I know this to my cost.
I once took a youth club holiday to Cornwall and we tried many activities. One morning we were going caving. I had never been caving before and when we
got to the caves, we were divided intro groups of ability. There was a serious mistake as the man in charge said to me: “As you are in church, you had better be with those with the most challenging route”. This was a mistake and once under a huge piece of rock which I had to pull myself through pressing myself down into muddy water, I wondered if caving was really for me. Well, to be honest, I thought after the experience whilst under the rock, I was praying I would get out alive! However, I tried it, I gave it a go, and it was a new experience.
Your lives are full of such opportunities.
We have rightly given thanks to the benefactors of the past. We will also be grateful for teachers and others who have served with distinction at the College. There are some Dunstonians here who made friends when they were the same age as some of the pupils and are still friends today. They still support the school and we are very grateful to them because they have not just taken, but now want to give back out of gratitude, to the place that did so much to prepare them for their future. We also have donors to the College, and they too wish to give thanks and make sure we can continue to provide an education of enlightenment.
I know some will not be convinced, but I believe that schools are beacons of
culture in a community. Where else do we find people engaged in academic pursuit with such a breath of possibility?
The love of English and all literature, the mystery of mathematics, to explore science in its different fields, geography giving us an understanding of the world, to learn a foreign language, to see history as the key to the future. To wonder at philosophy where we learn to look at a number of different perspectives in the pursuit of truth; in the same community do we find people playing music and singing, painting or making models from clay, playing football, hockey, swimming and so much more. Sitting quietly playing chess at lunch time.
And the spiritual life enhanced by beautiful grounds set in the bustle of a London suburb and an understanding of the nature of faith in a community which has members with many religions and none.
My last thoughts for you are these: A healthy community is one where all its members value all the others who are part of the whole. I believe the destiny of us all is to become fully human. To me that reveals itself in the way we treat others. The reality in community is that we won’t always agree with each other. We shall have different views on most things.
I am going to be very honest: we can’t always like everyone, but the response to that is to try to understand other people. There are reasons why people are as they are and the way into community living is to accept they see things differently and to value them for who they are, whatever that is. Be kind, be generous, be inclusive. Blessed are the merciful for they will be shown mercy.
We have a lot to be thankful for. Every part of the whole. The future is ours if we continue to have hearts that are open to learn, to include, to celebrate, to be thankful, for wisdom will enter our hearts. And knowledge will be pleasant to your souls.
“Reverend Canon Colin Luke Boswell May 2025
UPCOMING EVENTS
14 August
A Level Results Day (College)
29 August
Plaque to Plaque Charity Walk in aid of Street Child
26 September Dubai Dinner
18 October South West Reunion Lunch (Exeter)
1 November
Decade Luncheon Reunion for 1955/65/75/85/95/05 (Great Hall)
11 November Remembrance Day (College)
2 December Golf Society Tournament
5 December Nine Lessons and Carols (Southwark Cathedral)
18 December Recent Leavers Xmas Drinks 2015-2025 (College)
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
Enterprises
Editorial & Design Team:
Isabelle Blake-James Jo Langthorne
Thank you to all Dunstonians who have generously contributed to the Summer 2025 edition. If you would like to contribute to the Winter edition of The Notes 2025, please send your story or announcement by 1 October 2025 to: dunstonians@stdunstans.org.uk
We are particularly interested in receiving items for the scrapbook as well as announcements of engagements, weddings or births – even going back a few years.
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