The Suttonian 1993

THE SUTTONIAN 1993 VOLUME

35

NUMBER

4

V

Prize winners

EDITORIAL er Majesty Queen Elizabeth probably articulated the feelings of many up and down the land when she characterised last year as an ann ushonlbills.

There can have been very few who, in one way or another, have not felt keenly the effects of recession.

Despite these difficulties this magazine attests the continuing success and business of the school in all areas.

It was my intention when I took over the magazine here to push it more in the direction of Sixth Formers, both as contributors and editors. For a variety of reasons this has not been possible: not least thereby I hoped to get material in on time. It is entertaining to reflect that colleagues who would quite properly complain if pupils' work were late think nothing of treating copy deadlines in cavalier fashion.

This is my last edition of the magazine but it marks a new stage in the development of TheSuttonian in that the typesetting and lay-out have been done 'in-house'. This would not have been possible without the considerable expertise of Linzi Rothwell to whom I am extremely grateful. Mike Willdridge has, as ever,

H

culled from his art students a strong selection of artwork from which to choose and I give him my thanks. This year Margaret Knowles has relieved me from much of the burden of typing in material onto disc: in the process she has also provided the first line of editorial 'defence' and has often restored my flagging spirits - thank you Margaret. As usual a team of Lower Sixth Formers has done much of the least rewarding phase of putting the magazine together, that is, badgering folk and collecting their reports. It is: Owen Bellerby-Brown, Alison Boler, Rebecca Gear, Samantha Miller, Damian Penfold and Alex Winter.

How do I feel as I review three years of magazine editing here and five at my previous school? Suffice it to say that I have already delegated the task in advance of taking up my next post.

Martin Bruce.

-1-

HEADMASTER'S SPEECH SPEECH DAY, 29th. MAY 1993 hairman, Guest of Honour, Ladies and Gentlemen, members of the School. Imagine, if you will, a large and beautiful church. It is unoccupied save for one old down-=d-out who is kneeling in front of the altar bewailing his destitute state. Enter a smartly- but soberly-dressed man who looks about him, spots the beggar, moves swiftly towards him and presses a substantial roll of banknotes into his hand: whereupon the tramp departs in great joy, having had his prayers miraculously answered.

The smartly-dressed man kneels, raises his eyes and exhorts: "And now Lord, I want your undivided attention".

That man, Ladies and Gentleman, could well have been the Headmaster of any smaller independent school in the land at the beginning of this school year. I might venture further and locate the church in the beautiful, mediceval city of Bruges, where the members of the Headmasters' Conference met last September for their annual meeting.

We met in Bruges to affirm our commitment to the European ideal in its widest, least political context, conscious of the fact that the rising generations from our schools will, regardless of the strict constitutional framework, be citizens of an ever-wider, more embracing and more harmonious European polity; and conscious, too, of our capacity and duty to prepare our charges to play their part on this wider stage. We met also, under the wise guidance of our Chairman, Dominic Milroy, Benedictine monk and Headmaster of Ampleforth, to raise our eyes above the necessary but ever more confusing day-to-day preoccupations of the educational scene, to consider some of the loftier peaks of our purpose as educators. In a world where concepts of right and wrong are ever more blurred, where the primitive certainties of the 'Cold War' have been replaced by the potential anarchy of renascent nationalism and conflicting religious fundamentalism; where the crudely confident self-interest of the 1980's has given way to an apparently endless bog of economic and social uncertainty; where, in the developed world, the old Wildean definition of a cynic as a man who knows the price of everything and the value of nothing becomes ever more true; in that world, we asked ourselves, what do we as educators have to offer?

It was a stimulating and invigorating three days where, as when any really fundamental questions on the condition of man are debated, no neat conclusions emerged. What we could all say with confidence was that, as schools which place Christian worship and values at the centre of our purpose, which pay more than mere lip-service to the disci-

C

-2-

plines of community life and values, and where the individual and his or her talents, whatever they may be, are also regarded as uniquely precious, we are strongly placed to provide exactly the sort of moral underpinning which is so desperately needed in a world society whose foundations are ever more friable.

It was not, however, over these great matters that our putative Headmaster was consulting his Maker with such insistence: it was over issues of much more immediate import. The government had just published for the first time its statistics of public examination results. Not a single professional voice had been raised in favour of an exercise which, far from casting light in hitherto murky corners, took that which defied intelligent comparison unless set in an apparently unattainable value-added context, and blithely presented the nation with what, in the journalists' hands, became a League Table which ranged schools, by implication, from the good to the bad, the successful to the unsuccessful. What sublimely arrant nonsense!

To the wretched League Tables must be added a number of other woes. The National Curriculum which, in its concern for breadth, had attracted some of our loyalty, was clearly in increasing disarray. Recent events have shown just how near the whole over-loaded, over-prescriptive edifice is to complete collapse. Much comfort here is to be had in our independence and freedom to manoeuvre intelligently, but it has always been a fallacy to suggest that the independent sector can somehow ignore the educational mainstream and the uncertainty about the future is depressing.

Most worrying for our prayerful Head would have been the ongoing effects of the recession upon both current parents and those who, while recognising that what is offered in a particular independent school is ideally what they want for their children, simply cannot afford to do what they believe is right.

To compound that worry, from a strictly neutral and objective standpoint, were that Head to come by chance from Kent, he would have been concerned that the grant-maintained grammar schools, where funding now follows the pupil intake, look as though they are both widening their ability band and, in so doing, creating class sizes at the junior end of their intake which may be in excess of 30 and where the good, middle-ability child is in real danger of becoming a casualty.

When I began to put this speech together, it was my intention that the Headmaster who was so earnestly engaging our Lord remained a discreetly anonymous, symbolic figure but I suspect that the disguise is wearing somewhat thin - indeed, if anyone wants to know the going rate for buying off down-and -outs in Bruges, they might like to have a

word with me over tea.

This year has been and next year will be testing ones for all the reasons I have given. In September we are likely to be back to the size of school I took over in 1980. We were a flourishing school then and we shall be flourishing in September but it will be at a cost. As we have expanded so significantly over the past decade, so we have increased our staffing. This year it has been my painful duty to make some staff redundant. I have written to all of you on this subject and will say more about those who are departing in due course.

The year is therefore proving to be a bittersweet one. Bitter because of recession and redundancy, sweet because the year itself has been so busy and successful and because, as we emerge leaner and fitter, if I may use that unhappy phrase, from the recession, we know that there are exciting times ahead as, with the help of our ever-supportive Foundation, we lay our plans for the future.

A bitter-sweet year is passing. Let me take you quickly through some of the many sweet aspects of the year. We returned in September to enjoy one of the finest new assets we could wish for - a superb new Library, Resources' and Careers' Centre created from the old Refectory in the Lambe's Building. In addition, all the day-boy accommodation has been completely modernised as has the CDT centre, and the whole school has been networked for computers. These constituted our major projects for 1992-3.

The next phase in our Five-Year Plan is to further upgrade our sports facilities by the provision of an Astroturf pitch for hockey and tennis and, if funds permit, a full-bore shooting range incorporating cricket nets - a somewhat novel combination.

You all know by now that we have linked these projects with an Appeal in memory of Edward Craven, an OS and a member of staff whose connection with the school spanned 70 years. The Appeal has got off to a most encouraging start with generous donations from many old boys and it would be quite improper of me to take advantage of the fact that you are a captive audience to do more than recommend the project to you and remind you that many of the facilities your children take for granted here are the product of previous appeals. I know that the decision to contribute to an Appeal is the product of a complex of motives, one of which must be a belief in the bright future of the beneficiary. That our future is bright is beyond doubt as we have again proved in a highly successful school year. Our academic results last summer were very pleasing. Our sport continues to flourish with a cricket season where we were only beaten by one school, an above average rugby season, the best ever girls' and boys' hockey seasons with an outstanding performance from the latter who became only the second school ever to win the Frank Mason trophy twice. Congratulations must go especially to Timur Asar who played for Kent and to our fine captain William Waters, who has played for both

Kent and England. Our athletes, too, have continued their run of success in retaining the coveted Duke of York's Cup for the sixth time. The school's music-making has retained its recent excellent standard and we were pleased and proud when Fiona Wight won the National Choirgirl of the Year Competition. This is an outstanding achievement and one which Fiona, on being pitched into instant stardom, has handled with great modesty and good sense. (Do, by the way, buy the excellent CD which she and the Choirboy of the Year have produced).

In drama, no fewer than seven major productions have been performed since I last stood before you; in promoting the European Dimension, we have extended our exchange programmes with France, Germany and Italy. Ladies and Gentlemen: we are a small school which achieves impressive results across the whole range of our activities. Never has the school been so active and so successful in so many ways. We know, however, that continued success will not be won through prayer alone. We have been given the free will to make the best or worst of opportunities and, with an academic staff who have shown their continued commitment to excellence in a year where morale has not been easy to maintain, with a Governing Body and Foundation whose expertise has been invaluable in ensuring that we remain healthily viable and with exciting plans for the future, we know that continued success will be ours.

Farewells The net result of redundancy, retirement or promotion to posts in other schools is that we have many farewells to say this afternoon. To Mrs.Rickett who has taught Physics part-time this year; to Dr.Leitch who has taught Chemistry and run tennis for the past three years; to Mrs. Burr who has taught Biology so well part-time for the past eight years and who has been an excellent House Tutor in Cornwallis; to Mr. Sinclair who has taught Maths for four, been a most conscientious tutor in Founders and a committed sports' coach; to Miss Lirnrick who has been with us for one year as Head of Chemistry but has to leave for Haileybury in pursuit of matrimony; to Mr. McCartney who has come to the end of two very successful years as Artist-in-Residence; to Mr. Latta who has been with us for a year from St. Paul's, Baltimore on exchange with Mr. Pettman and whose company and whose Mathematics we have all enjoyed and to Mrs. Crosby, our Sanatorium Sister for the past eight years, whose no-nonsense, motherly care for so many boys and girls and staff has been much appreciated. We also say farewell to Miss Bowker who goes to be Head of Physics at St. Mary's, Cambridge and who will be missed as a most caring, conscientious teacher of Physics, tutor in Valence, taker of girls' games and player of a fine fiddle. Mr. Bruce, who has run the English Department for the past four years, produced a succession of excellent school magazines and contributed so much to the musical life of the school, also leaves to -3-

become Head of Department at Queenswood School.

We shall miss his civilised presence about the place.

Mr. Aldred, who has been Director of Music for the past four years, is also leaving us. Music at Sutton Valence has been transformed by Mr. Aldred. We now have a county-wide and growing national reputation for the range and excellence of our music-making. It is a reputation we intend to maintain and extend and I thank Mr. Aldred for all the musical pleasure he has brought to so many.

For the last couple of years, the bewildering changes and uncertainties in the field of design technology have given Mr. Taylor, as Head of that Department, more headaches than most. That he has triumphed over all the changes is demonstrated by the outstanding public examination results of the Department but, in a way, that was to be expected because Mr. Taylor has, over his 24 years here, always been a meticulous professional. A superb craftsman, he has transformed an area of traditional excellence into one of high tech. excellence. Having achieved this, he has decided to take early retirement to pursue his many other interests and we thank him for all he has done for the school, both in his department, on the sports field and as Master in Charge of Basketball, a highly successful sport. We are also confident that he has a worthy successor in Mr. Broome who takes over as Head of Department.

I have intentionally left Mr. Chance until last this afternoon because his teaching career at Sutton Valence has spanned 32 years and because they have been years marked by the most incredibly loyal and total commitment to the school - a degree of commitment which I cannot fully match in any other teacher I have known throughout my mere thirty years in the business. His redundancy is an occasion of great sadness for us all. In the course of

Form Prizes Form I

Form II

A.E. Blest T.J. Debens (and Distinction Prize) J.E.G. Parrett S.K. Wyatt T.G. Jordon J.M. Woods (and Distinction Prize)

Junior Religious Studies Prize Junior Art Prize Junior Reading Prize Lower School Music Prize Junior Chapel Reading Prize Distinction Prizes J.L. de Trute R.K. Duffell M.D. Groom J.N. Jones

J.M. Woods T.G. Jordan G.L. Hopkin E.R. Doorey L.N. Keys

T.E.R. Jones B.A. Morrison E.T. Power S.A. Watson

Form III

E.C. Bailey A.G. Long A.T.B. Mansfield (and Distinction Prize) J.C. Reynolds R.J. Byrnes Junior Current Affairs

Distinction Prizes V.A. Day

B.J. Upton

those years Mr. Chance has been Housemaster of Founder's for seven years. Housemaster of Margaret's for nine, producer of school plays, mainstay of the tenor line in the school choir, the Madrigal Group, the Male Voice Choir and regular soloist in operas and concerts. Then there was the job for which he was actually paid - as a rigorous English teacher whose concern has ever been for high standards. As with all such men, however, the catalogue of what they have done only begins to tell the story of their real contribution. No-one who has had any contact whatsoever with Mr. Chance over the last 32 years has been untouched by the encounter. On one level, they will have learned that there are three measurements of time in Britain - Greenwich Mean Time, British Standard Time and Bob Time. Before encountering Mr. Chance in St. Margaret's, no boy could ever have believed that 2 a.m. was a reasonable time for an enthusiastic, in-depth analysis of his grade card; no rugby or hockey player could have believed that these games could perfectly well be played in the pitch dark. I remember a young member of staff who was coaching hockey with Mr. Chance, turning out with a torch tied to his hockey stick. It is not recorded whether the hint was taken - I doubt it - or the torch used. If time has always had a surreal flexibility for Mr. Chance, in most other ways he is an inflexible man. Inflexible in his determination to maintain high standards whether in work or personal conduct; unswerving in his loyalty to three Headmasters and countless colleagues alike; utterly committed to the success and well-being of the school. As a man who has engaged the affections of us all, I will close what I have to say this afternoon by saluting him and assuring him that everyone here is deeply conscious of the great debt owed to him by many generations.

C.E. Judd E. Kentish-Barnes J.J.H. Parkinson

Form IV

H.E. Browne O.C. Piper

F.A. Wight D.J. Willdridge (and 2 Distinction Prizes) (and Distinction Prize)

Joyce Drayson Art Prize GCSE Art Prize

H.E. Browne H.E. Browne O.C. Piper James Poole Prize (English) H.E. Browne Intermediate Reading Prize H.E. Browne Middle School Music Prize M.J. Gear and Distinction Prize F.J. Lynes Distinction Prizes A.J. Agar V.H. Burr C.N. Dearing E.J. Field

Form V

C.E. Majewski E.J. Parrett T.E. Wild S. Winter

R.P. Sankey K.L. Woods (and Distinction Prize) The Coles Prize E.J. Harrison Ward Prize (Religious Studies) S.E. Buckler Distinction Prizes A.M. Brooks M.M.H. Lee J.W. Evans G.P. Midwood R.J. Gadsden G.L. Pares R. Head A.C. Shaw L. Irnberg

LOWER SIXTH English (and Distinction Prize)

R.E. Bourne W.J. Slater Biology P. Hartmanova Chemistry T.P. Griffin Economics K. Fischerova Geography (and Distinction Prize) J.P. Roberts Home Economics S.C. West Mathematics Y.T.A. Lau Physics Y.T.A. Lau Design and Technology Y.T.A. Lau History F. Loos D. Penfold Music (and Distinction Prize) D. Penfold MacDonald Prize (Current Affairs) D. Penfold Bossom Prize (Chapel Reading) (and Distinction Prize) R.E. Gear O.S.A. Prize R.E. Gear D.J. Harvey D. Penfold Distinction Prizes R.J. Hodson K.A. Moon W.Y.W. Tse

UPPER SIXTH Distinction Prizes

Fry Prize (Computer Studies) Bloxham Prize (English)

S.R. Baker C.J.A.H. Harris E.Y.L. Lee F. MacDonald S. Walsh R.I. Miles C. Latham

Kingdon Prize (Classics) Home Economics Geography Project Prize Geography Prize Garside Prize (History) Kitchener Prize (Maths) Wood Prize (Physics) Edward Craven Memorial Prize

C.A. Reynolds A.L. Pocock J.W.R. Drury C.P.G. Scott K.C. Phillips I.J,W. Collins I.J.W. Collins W.G. Waters K.S. New Angel Prize (Maths) H.H.C. Ng Shell Prize (Biology) K.S. New Winstanley Prize (Chemistry) L.A.L. Burbridge J.T.P. Ryan Economics Prize (and Distinction Prize) A.Abudu M.S. Schmidt Grizelle Prize M.S. Schmidt Wheeler Prize (French) M.S. Schmidt Derrick Prize (English Verse Speaking) S.J.D. Mills V.E. Moon Daler Rowney Art Prize K,A, Hannah Music Prize K.A. Hannah V.E. Moon D. Penfold Richard Horn Prize (Outstanding all round Performance K.A. Hannah in School Music and Drama) Clothworkers' Prize L.A.L. Burbridge K.A. Hannah S.J.D. Mills (and Distinction Prize) M.J. Woodgate Rickett's Prize (and 2 Distinction Prizes) J.E.J. Holroyd K.J. Phillips M.S. Schmidt Headmaster's Prize D.P. Brannan F.A. Yonge

AWARDS Bennett-Hunting Awards: (1992) A.K. Congdon (1988 W) reading Engineering at Durham University D.J. Daws (1988 F) reading Economics at Loughborough Univerisity C.M. Leach (1989 M) reading Physics at Southampton University (1993) P.S.G. Chance (1990 F) reading Medicine at Birmingham University A.H. Rissik (1990 C) reading Engineering at Southampton University Atchison Awards: N.J.L.G. Griva (1988 L) reading Physics at Exeter University (1992) A.M. Miles (1989 W) reading Chemistry at Durham University (1993) Arwen Burnett (1989 V) reading English and Drama at Birmingham University J.P. Gear (1990 L) reading Geography at Manchester University O.S.A. Enterprise Awards: Beth Johnson (S) for travel to the U.S.A. under the auspices of the English Speaking Union.

J.A. Rollinson (F) for travel to Australia

E.S.U. Scholarship: Beth Johnson (S) Foundation Scholarships: A.G. Long (Friars School and Underhill School) J.C. Reynolds (Dover College Prep School) Exhibitions: Elizabeth Bailey (Bodiam Manor School) M.D. Sabine (Sutton Valence School) Junior Scholarships: Neil Hockaday (Dover College Prep School) Kirsty Johnston (Tenterden C. of E. PiimarySchool) Joanna Woods (Beaudesart Park School) Sarah Wyatt (Spring Grove School) Junior Exhibition: T.A. Chantry (Friars School) Music Scholarship: Jane Armstrong (Underhill School) Elisabeth Bailey (Bodiam Manor School) J.D. Cowell (Sutton Valence School) Art Scholarships: Holly Browne (Sutton Valence School) Y.T.A. Lau (Sutton Valence School) Olivia Piper (Sutton Valence School)

-5-

Farewell....

R.D.C.

B

ob Chance leaves Sutton Valence this summer after thirty two years of outstanding service to the school. Bob was educated at Ellesmere College and Clare College, Cambridge where he read English. He then took his Certificate of Education at Exeter University before coming to Kent in September, 1961.

Bob has participated in many areas of school life, most notably in sport. He coached Rugger, Hockey and Cricket and after helping 'Pill' Ball with the 1st XV he took over the team in 1965 and guided it for the next twenty years. Perhaps the most successful team was that captained by Andrew Scott in 1970. In 1966 Bob also took charge of theist XI Cricket and ran that until 1971. He has coached both these sports at junior level ever since and has been a hockey coach as well. Any boys who have been coached by Bob will testify to his dedication to the correct way to play the game, his emphasis on the hard work which is necessary for success and his own enthusiasm and expertise. He himself was a very useful cricketer and hockey player; few will know that he played soccer for his college when at Cambridge. He was also Chairman of the Sports' Council for many years and encouraged the various Captains of Sport to make a positive contribution to the future of sport in the school with suggestions which often were not put in place until after they themselves had left. More recently Bob has taken a close interest in Athletics as he has followed the progress of his son, Patrick, in Cross-Country and Athletics. He had supported school Athletics as track judge and starter for years.

In addition to his contribution to sport, Bob was in the C.C.F. for nearly ten years. He sang in the School Choir for over twenty-five years, performing as alto or tenor with equal facility and he took part in Gilbert and Sullivan productions in the 1960s and 1980s; he also sang solo parts in oratorios and concerts and was a member of various singing

groups. His voice is recorded on the tape A round with Horn and Foulkes. Bob also produced a number of plays, both with juniors and seniors: memorable productions such as An Inspector Calls and Seven Characters in search of an Author spring to mind.

As if all this was not enough Bob has made a huge contribution on the pastoral side, first as a House Tutor in Founder's then as Housemaster from 1971 to 1978 and finally as Housemaster of St. Margaret's from 1978 to 1987. As with everything he undertook, Bob's first concern was with the individual and he spent many hours helping those in his care to fulfil themselves and to overcome their problems. He keeps in touch with many O.S. who write to him to give news of their careers or their hobbies.

Bob has taught English with the same dedication as he has shown in all areas of his life; his eye for detail and his concern about the importance of correct English goes without saying. His love of literature and in particular the novels of Hardy and Conrad is clear to all who have passed through his hands.

He will be sorely missed by his colleagues in the Common Room, with his ready sense of humour, his wise contributions to discussion and his sporting knowledge, especially his love of racing - he has been the unofficial racing correspondent for The Suttonian and the O.S. Newsletter.

Enthusiasm, loyalty and dedication are qualities not always found these days. Bob has these in abundance. In everything he has been supported by his wife, Anne, and their children, Helene, now a dentist, Veronique, an artist who was at the school herself, and Patrick, also an O.S. now studying Medicine at Birmingham University. Everyone who knows Bob will wish him well in the future and will want to thank him for his service to Sutton Valence.

C.R.G.Shaw.

Don Taylor

A

fter the tragic death of Tom Hooson in a road accident in October 1968, a short move from one side of Maidstone to the other brought Don Taylor from Aylesford to Sutton Valence. Disappointed of justified hopes of being made Head of Dept. at a school he had taught in for several years, he decided to come across to the Independent Sector, to our lasting benefit at Sutton Valence.

Taking over a Department in such circumstances, he clearly faced far more than the usual difficulties involved in an ordinary move to a new post. The Craft teaching had been kept going by the combined team of Derek Simmons, Head of Art, and Roger Baker, the then Head Boy. Inevitably some leeway had to be made up. The Craft Centre had only very recently had its ground floor put in, to produce two levels in the building, and much remained to be done of the conversion and fitting

out of the new arrangement - a situation doubtless made more problematical when someone else's half-finished ideas were being taken over . As if these problems were not enough, Don had the additional one of teaching Engineering Drawing (which Tom had introduced on his arrival in 1964 and which by then boys were studying for 'A' level), a subject of which he had only a limited experience. Don told me recently that he recalls having to seek frequent assistance from a fellow member of the Craft Teachers' Association in order to cope, confessing that, with all this, plus a move to a new house, conversion work on that and, as well, a young family for his wife Jane and him to bring up, he is still unsure about how he found enough hours in the day for all he had to do. Of course he did find them - those of us here at that time soon got to know Don as a meticulously well-organised person, a friendly colleague, a craftsman of a high order of skill, a stimulating and thoroughly professional teacher of his subject.

The main thrust of Don's teaching in his many years in charge of his department has been in the direction of Craft and Design. Believing that Engineering Drawing was a subject "in a vacuum", with nothing to be related to, since we then had no metalworking facilities, he discontinued the teaching of it after a few years. Technical Drawing became a part of the design side of the Craft courses which were followed to 'O' and 'A' level. One of the most satisfying results Don sees from the 'classroom' side of his years at Sutton Valence is the fact that a number of his former pupils are following careers in Furniture Design in Wood and C.D.T. to Design and Technology as it is today, have made continuing large demands on Don's time, especially in recent years - there have been a multiplicity of courses to attend, new syllabuses to become familiar with, fresh angles to master. Such things have, of course, affected most subjects but in Craft and Design the changes have been greater than in many others. For many of us, his colleagues, Don's hard work here has been evident only in the physical changes inside the Craft Centre, of which there have been several. One has

been vaguely aware of many days spent during holidays in reconstruction and alteration of the interior, often to a major extent. Working on his own, or assisted latterly by Steve Broome who is to succeed him, Don must have saved the school literally thousands of pounds in labour costs. Any O.S. who last entered the 'Chip Shop' twenty five years ago would almost certainly fail to recognise in this cosy but modern centre the building constructed as the school gymnasium in the last century. Don leaves behind a thriving Department equipped in every way for the Technology courses of the late twentieth century.

This by itself would be a wonderful contribution to have made to the School, but I have mentioned only part of Doris activities. He is (I cringe from saying 'has been') a fine sportsman: cricket and basketball are his games. Both of them he has coached at school for many years with great enthusiasm and deep knowledge of their technicalities. Alan Chainey, Head of P.E. in the late '60s and early '70s, introduced Basketball as a competitive inter-school sport. Don worked closely with Alan and after taking over when Alan left in 1972 has run the sport, almost unbroken, since then, with undiminished enthusiasm.

Basketball remains a popular and successful game with many pupils. For a number of years in the '70s Don played regularly himself, as did several other young members of staff, for 'Maidstone Masters', a basketball team of teaches from the Maidstone area, in the Medway League. On the cricket field Don has been a regular in the Common Room side for many years, relied on for his accurate and testing seam- and off-break bowling, and what another colleague has described as his "sweet, straight striking" of the ball. These skills he has imparted to school teams he has coached. He is an enthusiastic and most knowledgeable follower of international athletics and has always been ready to hold a stop-watch or wield a tape-measure at inter-school 'track-and-field' meetings, appreciative of good performance and technique by all those competing.

Don is a great social man, with friends in many spheres, a lively and always stimulating companion in the bar, a keen and informed jazz fan, who enjoys a 'bop', always first on the floor when the music starts at Common Room parties.

All these facets of Don show him as a person of more than usual interest and diversity. No appreciation of him could possibly be complete without including mention of what is the abiding and consuming passion of his life ornithology, Most of his colleagues are aware that he 'watches birds', having had to put their hands in their pockets every year in May for the Sponsored Countywide Biidwatches, each year hoping that the record of 134 species in 24 hours wouldn't be broken! Perhaps not so many know that he is an acknowledged expert in this field, particularly on the birds of Kent and the SouthEast. In the past he has edited the annual Kent Bird Report for twelve years, has collaborated in the writing of the standard reference book, 'Birds of Kent', and in a book on Birdwatching in Kent and Sussex and has had published his own book 'Birdwatching in Kent', illustrated with his own photographs and drawings. Many mornings of the week, Don will have been up long before most of us and -7-

have put in some watching-time on his way to school. For twelve years he and a fellow ornithologist, Bob Bland, studied the birds of Langley Park Farm, near to the school, and Don published their own annual report to this 'patch'. When this area was no longer available or suitable, due to a change of ownership, Don moved this work of detailed study to Boughton Monchelsea Park, with the enthusiastic co-operation of the owner, Charlie Gooch O.S., a former pupil of his. For this study-area, too, an annual report, each year more professionally presented, is produced. At various times during his years at Sutton Valence, Don has run an Ornithology group - though with his commitments to Craft and Basketball this hasn't happened as often or as continuously as he would have liked - communicating his own enthusiasm and expertise to boys. Two O.S., David Sutton and Richard Campey, have pursued the enthusiasm for ornithology thus inspired after leaving school, with work in bird-sound recording and as an R.S.P.B. warden respectively, something which has given Don much satisfaction.

Don is not, however, insular in his birdwatching: he has led numerous parties on field expeditions abroad, in Spain and North Africa, and has in recent years visited on his own account countries increasingly more exotic and further afield. We have long ago ceased to express our surprise at the fine tans with which he has returned at the starts of terms, from Brazil, Kenya, Venezuela, Gambia, the Galapagos Islands. Now that he is retiring, he can get down to this international 'birding' in real earnest!

I have spent myself more than a few hours (though I wish they had been many more) in Don's company on birding outings and each time have been impressed afresh by his encyclopaedic knowledge of so many species, their habits and habitat, his ability to identify them by the briefest glimpse or the shortest snatch of song. Each trip has been an enriching experience, despite, on occasions, cold feet and hands, watering eyes as one squinted in the wind through the binoculars, for one was affected by Don's love for the birds, deep and sensitive yet unromantic and realistic. This sensitivity has extended, of course, to colleagues, friends and pupils. For me, personally, nothing could have demonstrated it more than his solicitous visits to me while I convalesced following my road accident two and a half years ago - on one occasion, despite his busy life, he found time to give me a private showing of his slides from the Galapagos trip, knowing what pleasure it would bring. It was presented with all the lucid explanation and meticulous care which, for me, characterise Don. We shall all miss him in the Common Room and wish him and his partner Trish every good thing for the future. Of course we shall see them, often, we hope, and we can be sure that for Don 'retirement' will be packed with vital activity!

J. McC.

Sian Burr

S

ian started teaching at Sutton Valence seven years ago as a part-time member of staff, but her timetable rapidly expanded until it was effectively full-time. She initially specialised in teaching many of the younger classes in the school with whom she was both popular and effective. She has an empathy with these pupils and her patience and skill at explaining often complex topics (some Physics, most of chemistry and all of Biology) has been appreciated by many youngsters over the years.

Sian is an intelligent and capable scientist having an excellent grasp of her subject. Her strengths lie in biochemistry, genetics and physiology. She managed to give her sixth form pupils (apart from those in Westminster), an especially firm grounding and considerable insight into these areas.

Sian was a valued house tutor in the junior girls' day house where she regularly advised and helped the girls in her keeping. She has shown herself to be a very caring person in this respect.

Sian has helped in many areas of school We over the years, in particular in her capacity as a "token ovary". We have no sex discrimination in the Biology department and both understand the need for a variety of gonads! This was especially so on the field trips were Sian soon learnt to tell her Patella from her Littoralis. I am upset to be losing her from my department.

She has also given a lot of her time to the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme. Her remote and extensive garden adjacent to the local open prison proved to be the perfect location for many a weary Bronze Expeditionist to spend the night in semisupervised seclusion.

Jam sure that we will all miss Sian a great deal

and will only realise just how much she did around the school after she has gone. If, after the recession is over, I were looking for a full time Biologist. I should seek to ensure her reappointment without hesitation .

D. E. Clarke.

San Sister

M

cage Crosby arrived at Sutton Valence School in the middle of winter over eight years ago.

January is not the most inspiring of months in which to join a new school but Marge believes, in her down-to-earth Lancastrian way, in treating the whole person; not only has she provided meticulous care for the injured or ill but she has restored the happiness and mental well-being of many a patient by judicious use of such remedies as the cup of tea (or 'brew' as Marge calls it), the listening ear, or the calming walk round BM with San Sister's dog.

Everyone knows, however, that the 'dying swan' or the pupil nefariously in pursuit of a convenient 'off games' will receive short shrift from Marge!

Despite losing her husband to a cruel illness shortly before her arrival at Sutton Valence, Marge has continued to throw herself into life with enormous enthusiasm and determination to enjoy herself .

Her family of seven children and numerous grandchildren - even great-grandchildren now - has helped her to keep young at heart. Often she has returned at the beginning of term bronzed from a trip to South Africa to see her family or to North Africa in search of some winter sun. Marge is also a great enthusiast for those peculiarly British organisations which encourage youngsters to develop their personality outside the classroom; she is a qualified Scout Leader and has spent many of her 'evenings off' running a scout troop at Yalding and many a holiday at scout camp. Indeed her knowledge of first aid and camperaft has enabled her to give very valuable and much appreciated assistance to both the CCF and the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme. Not for Marge long hours of isolation 'on call' in her sanatorium, emerging only to rush to a casualty or patient. She has become a familiar figure in so many areas of school life supporting school teams, worshipping in Chapel, enjoying and applauding swimming sports, attending the Summer Ball, participating in evening classes run by the Art Department - to name but a few. And all the time her sharp eyes are noticing the warning signs of ill-health, which others may not see. Marge is a kind-hearted woman of grit and integrity: the school and the many friends she has made in the surrounding community will miss her.

We all wish her well in what will be, no doubt, a well-occupied and interesting retirement in her beloved Lancashire.

R.F.Bates and C.W.W.Wilson

A

nne has been with us now for 5 years as physics teacher, Valence person, and girls' sports teacher.

I have been very grateful for all the help which Anne has given me in the Physics department. There have been many decisions necessary over the last few years and she has been very supportive in these. She has also shown herself to be an excellent and dedicated physics teacher. I am sure that all the pupils are also very grateful for her good and interesting physics teaching.

Anne also taught electronics to the Lower 6th and ran the electronics club which gave many people a lot of pleasure on Wednesdays and Fridays. She was very enthusiastic in this department and was instrumental in building up electronics in the school. She even imported an "uncle" (not many people can boast of having an uncle who is their father!). In her final year Anne also acted as liaison between the school and the "Neighbourhood Engineers" a group who come to the school each year to advise Lower 6th Formers on careers in engineering.

Anne is also very interested in education itself and is totally up to date on all the strange and mysterious bits of the National Curriculum - this should help her a lot with her new job.

Anne will be sorely missed here by all. However it is time for her to move on and she has done very well for herself - she is to be Head of Physics at a girls' school (St Mary's) in Cambridge. We all wish her the very best for the future and keep our fingers crossed that the mini van will make it all the way up the Mll. G.R.Piper

W

M.B. "Costly thy habit as thy purse can buy, But not express 'd in fancy; rich not gaudy; For the apparel oft becomes the man. " So says Polonius to his son, Laertes, prior to the latter's return to France. I have no doubt that Martin Bruce will linger for a long time, both in the mind as well as in the imagination, perhaps, of those that have know him here. His distinctive choice of dress and headgear, reflecting genuine individuality and, dare I say it, something of the eccentric, the trendy, and what he himself would have been bold to call 'whackiness', rarely failed to draw forth comment, and added a welcome touch of colour and brightness to a period in the school's history that has been far from easy. His classroom was a veritable haven of aestheticism, regaled and adorned as it was with climbing' plants, bric-a-brac and a whole range of pictures, sketches and photographs that included theatrical posters, flowers and a whole 'bevy of beautiful maidens' of whom Frederick, in Gilbert and Sullivan's Pirates of Penzance, would certainly have approved.

Martin's background is as multi- faceted as the approach he had at Sutton Valence on all types of occasions. Music, inevitably, played a substantial part. He was Head Chorister at Winchester Cathedral, a Choral Scholar at Durham where he graduated and shortly afterwards, quite fascinatingly, conductor of The British Choir Abroad touring Italy during the summer, and specialising in providing choruses for Rossini Operas. He had already begun - 10 -

teaching at Chigwell School as well as singing professionally in London before suddenly leaving his job and spending one and a half years, first as a professional singer and then as a Private Investigator in Croydon! "The money was good - the security less so!' He returned to teaching at the nearby Royal Russell School, from where he departed fairly soon "with much relief" to Reigate Grammar School, where he spent a very contented six years, especially so, since it was there that he met and married K.T. In addition, this was a prolific musical period: he wrote musicals, had some Choral Music published, conducted a choir and played the organ at St. Mary's, the parish church.

Martin arrived at Sutton Valence in September 1989 as Head of English. His impact was immediate, and very soon we, in the Department, were contributing literary readings to stimulating meetings of the English Society that he enthusiastically inaugurated, as well as soothing the palate with the 'juice from the vine' during frequent department meetings - meetings which, unfortunately, through no fault of his, became increasingly bogged down and fraught by the frustrating vagueness of the new examinations, and limitless tautological governmental pamphlets that took ages to digest.

His teaching of English, of General Studies (Aestheticism and the History of Western Philosophy) has been original, enthusiastic and especially appealing to the pupils who have been prepared to think for themselves and use their intellects. In order to keep himself mentally and intellectually challenged.

Martin successfully completed an M.A. in Victorian Studies at London - quite a feat amongst much else that he was contributing here. In addition, he set the Contemporary Arts' Week in motion, was Chairman of the Performing Arts' Committee and director of several dramatic productions, of which the most notable were Stoppard's Dogg's Hamlet/Cahoot's Macbeth and his own highly intriguing and imaginative musical composition, Arcana, in which I was delighted to play the small part of Algar.. Martin had arrived and made a most important impact on the School in a very short time!

It must be disappointing for many to see Martin leaving after only four years here. He has found the environment a pleasure to work in, and he and K.T. have enjoyed their time together in 'Windflowers'. I spoke to him before his departure when he remarked on how much he had gained from working in the English Department here. We've enjoyed some happy and amusing moments, as well as considerable banter over our own preferences in both great and more mediocre literature. I take the opportunity to wish him, K.T. and his two children, Sophie and Tristan, the very best of everything at Queenswood Girls' School, Hatfield.

R.D. Chance

as the Eton College Choir, Carlo Curley and Evelyn Glennie, have undoubtedly made an impact. On a local level the weekly meetings of the Choral Society have been looked forward to by that band of afficianados.

Choral music is Philip's particular enthusiasm and he has put much effort into the music for Chapel Services, such an important part of our corporate worship. The Chapel Choir has not only played its part within the school however: in Easter '92 it completed a very busy one week tour of three European countries.

We wish Philip and his family success in the future, confident that his particular brand of keen music-making will be appreciated wherever he goes.

Janet Limrick

Dr Graham Leitch

G

sham joined Sutton Valence three years ago,

having previously taught at Carmel College.

He has taught both Chemistry and Physics here with great conscientiousness and in addition has been very active on the Tennis Court. As Master-in Charge of Tennis he has thoroughly re-organised the sport, lengthened the proportion of the school year spent practising, imported into the game his own seriousness of attitude in pursuit of success and has helped many keen players to improve all apects of their game. We wish him every success in his new post as Head of Chemistry at Blackheath High School.

J. Limrick

P.S.A. hilip Aldred's four years here as Director of Music have been characterised by energy and enthusiasm. Both he and the school's music have maintained a high profile, and under his direction we have enjoyed many of the 'set piece' events such as the carol services and the summer concerts, both sorts of occasion well-attended. The termly presence of the Music Calendar has made us aware of the large quantity of music-making going on and of the large numbers of pupils taking instrumental lessons and passing exams. Concerts given by pupils have often been of high quality, especially the annual showcase for the Music Scholars, and recently, a concert specifically set aside for those who are not Music Scholars! In terms of public awareness the Sutton Valence Music Society concerts, hosted by the school and often featuring famous names such

n the year that Janet has been with us she has impressed us all that she is an efficient manager and an interesting teacher who is able to explain chemistry well at all levels. She has very willingly given up a lot of her spare time in lunch hours and after school to give extra tuition to those who asked.

She has also contributed well to decisions which had to be made in the Science department and I thank her for her support.

Janet has also helped us this year in the CCF. In her first life at Charterhouse she was an Army Officer, in her second at Marlborough she was a Naval Officer but finally at Sutton Valence she got it right! After her final metamorphosis she emerged in a nice shade of light blue. She has been very much learning the RAF ropes this year so it is a shame that she is leaving us now. I hope that by the time this goes to press Janet will have treated the RAF cadets to some subaqua swimming (she is a very talented diver).

Our best wishes go to Janet for her future, not only as Head of Chemistry at Haileybury but also for her forthcoming wedding.

P

G.R.Piper

B.J.L.

A

tall slim figure has been inhabiting the corridor of power alongside the assembly hall this year. At times we were not certain if it was a representative of the F.B.I. sent to infiltrate us or just sleeping agent of the Mafia! Bruce Latta has been on an exchange posting from St. Paul's Baltimore Maryland for the last 9 months having swapped job and home with Marcus Pettman. Instead of entering the chamber of mathematical endeavours the classes visiting room 5 have been treated to an American style of teaching. Whilst many of his pupils took a

while to adapt to his different approach they soon came to relish the challenges he presented them with. Probability will never be the same without the coloured Munsters from Frosties packets which now peer down from the shelves.

He has also left his mark in other areas of school life; He was keen to pass on his basketball drills to the school team and almost enabled the staff to defeat the students for the first time for many years. His musical talents have also been in evi-

dence with the formation of a Jazz group, with Bruce on bass. Many pupils have also found him a helpful tutor when they have met problems with their preparation for exams. He has also been seen playing cricket for the staff team although he must remember to take his bat with him when he runs!

We have certainly enjoyed having him amongst us for the year and hope to see him when he returns on holiday in the future.

M.R.S.

M

Ike Sinclair joined the School four years ago as a bachelor to work in as he phrased it, 'a proper school". He quickly found his feet in the classroom as well as assisting in Founder's house as a tutor. He also married at the end of his first year with us and has since commuted to school around the M.25 which he now knows intimately. He is a good classroom practitioner who has his own effective style and way of encouraging all students that the subject is both interesting and do-able! He has been very active as a sports coach where his acerbic comments have benefited rugby, fives and cricket teams. He has been the driving force behind Third form activities introducing them to the delights of walking, orienteering and Karting. The Common Room will miss his exploits on the golf course, his terse observations and his remarkable ties. We wish him well in his new post in Richmond where we hope he will be able to spend more time with Frances and Emily rather than viewing his fellow man's poor driving habits.

Clive McCartney

T

he end of the summer term marks the completion of Clive's two-year tenure as Artist-in-Residence and the cessation of the residency scheme. The scheme's primary function has been for those interested in Art to watch a full-time artist at work as well as having the benefit of some of his/her teaching. In both aspects of the scheme Clive has excelled. He has held two one-man exhibitions in the Gulland Hall and regularly exhibits work outside the school. He is an enormously prolific artist - usually first in and last out of the Gulland Hall.

This aspect has done much to encourage an improved work ethic amongst the pupils. He is a superb teacher of painting and has been strongly responsible for the noticeable improvement in painting standards.

Not only will the scheme be missed by all concerned with art at Sutton Valence School but also Clive, with his ever-friendly, lively and wellinformed personality, will be missed as a member of the Common Room and artist within the community. As I write Clive's immediate future remains unclear although I feel certain that his long-term prospects within the art world are bright.

M.D. Willdridge -12-

VALETE Summer 1992 H.M Barty 1987 B & L; GCSE; CCF. (Goes to Maidstone G.S..)

Society. (Goes to Hatfield University to read Psychology.)

Charlotte Basham 1990 S; A; House Prefect; CCF Cpl. (Gap year, then goes into Nursing.)

J.M. Churchill 1987 C & W; GCSE & A; 3rd XV Rugger; 2nd IV Fives; Junior Athletics; Capt. of Golf; CCF (RAF) Cpl. (Goes to University of North London to read Physics.)

Clare Berry 1990 S; A; Distinction Prize; House Prefect; 1st Girls' Hockey; Girls' Swimming; CCF Sgt; Senior Play, Hunting Society. (Goes to Oxford Polytechnic for Nursing.)

A.A. Coker 1987 M; GCSE & A; Joyce Drayson Art Prize; House Prefect; Capt of Fives, Full Colours; 1st VI Tennis. (Goes to City of London Polytechnic to read Business Studies.)

P.T. Boler 1987 W; GCSE, AS & A; 2nd XV Rugger; Senior Athletics; CCF (RAF) Cpl. (Goes to South Bank University to read Modern Languages and International Studies.)

B.G.M. Collins 1985 B & F; GCSE & A; Distinction Prize, L6 German Prize; House Prefect; 2nd XV Rugger; Senior Cross-Country; Senior Athletics; Senior Play, Choir, Orchestra, Male Voice Choir.

(Goes to University of East Anglia to read Biochemistry.)

C.J. Bowen-Colthurst 1987 H & M; GCSE; Distinction Prizes; U/ 16 XV Rugger; U/ 16 Hockey; U/ 14 XI Cricket; U/14 Fives; Senior Judo; Intermediate Athletics; Shooting VIII; CCF L/Cpl; Senior Play; Choir, Hunting Society. (Goes to Welbeck College.)

J.R. Brandon 1988 L & W; GCSE, AS & A; Distinction Prize; House Prefect; 1st XV Rugger, Full Colours; 2nd XI Hockey; Captain of Basketball, Full Colours; Captain of Tennis, Full Colours; U/15 Squash; CCF L/Cpl; D of E Bronze Award; Senior Play. (Goes to Peperdine University in the U.S.A. to read Business Studies.)

M.G. Brett 1991 L. (Goes to Sevenoaks School.)

E.L. Bukuku 1989 W; GCSE; Distinction Prize; U/16 XV Rugger; U/ 16 Xl Hockey; 1st Xl Cricket; U/16 Basketball; CCF L/Cpl; Senior Play. (Goes to school in Tanzania.)

R.I. Bukuku 1988 W; GCSE; Choir, Senior Play, (Goes to school in Tanzania.)

O.J. Daddow 1985 B & F; GCSE & A; Scholar; Distinction Prizes, Kingdom Prize for Latin, Economics Prize; Capt. of Squash; U/1รณ VI Tennis; Senior Play, Hunting Society. (Goes to St. Peter's College Oxford to read Psychology, Philosophy and Physiology.)

N. R. Dearing 1988 F; GCSE. (Goes to Maidstone G. S.) N.P.A. de Lucy 1985 B. F & W; GCSE & A; Distinction Prizes, L6 Home Economics Prize, Home Economics Prize; House Prefect; 1st XV Rugger, Full Colours; 2nd XI Hockey; Senior Athletics; 1st V Squash; CCF Sgt; D of E Silver; Senior Play, Choir, Male Voice Choir.

(Goes to Westminster College for Hotel and Catering.)

A.S. Edem 1991 W; A; 2nd XV Rugger; Senior Basketball; Senior Athletics. (Goes to university in U.S.A..)

Victoria Burbridge 1989 C & V; Choir; (Goes to Maidstone G.S. for Girls).

N. Edern 1991 W; A; 3rd XV Rugger; Senior Basketball; Senior Athletics. (Goes to university in U.S.A..)

A.M. Burgess 1987 L; GCSE & A; House Prefect; 3rd XV Rugger; 3rd XI Hockey. (Goes to Kingston University to read Engineering).

S.U. Ejimofor 1989 M; GCSE; U/16 XV Rugger; U/ 16 Xl Hockey; Intermediate Athletics; U/16 Basketball. (Goes to school in London.)

R.L. Carpenter 1989 M; GCSE; 2nd XV Rugger; Intermediate Cross-Country; Junior Judo; CCF L/ Cpl; Hunting Society. (Goes into the Army.)

J.P.R. Evans 1985 B, F & W; GCSE & A; Scholar; Distinction Prizes; House Prefect; 3rd Xl Hockey; Senior Play. (Goes to St. John's, Durham to read Biochemistry.)

J. Childs 1987 M; GCSE 7 A; House Prefect; 1st XV, Full Colours; U/16 XI Hockey; 2nd IV Fives; Senior Athletics, Full Colours; CCF Sgt; Hunting Society.

(Gap year, then goes to agricultural college).

Anneli Christian-Phillips 1990 V; A; Girls' Squash; CCF (RAF) Cpl; Senior Play, Orchestra, Hunting

N.J.P. Evans 1989 F; GCSE; U/15 Xl Hockey; CCF. (Goes to Maidstone G.S) Julia Fendler-Matzek 1991 S; Distinction Prize Girls' CrossCountry; Girls' Swimming; CCF. (Goes to Gymnasium in Germany.)

-13-

Kate Fitzgerald 1990 S; A; House Prefect; 1st VII Netball, Full Colours; Shooting VIII, Full Colours; CCF Sgt; Hunting Society. (Goes to Bournemouth University to read Tourism Studies.)

A. Flisher 1986 B & F; GCSE; Scholar; Distinction Prizes, Form Prizes; U/14 XV Rugger; U/14 XI Hockey; 2nd XI Cricket; Orchestra. (Goes to Norton Knatchbull School, Ashford.)

T.W.B. Hodson 1987 C & W; GCSE, AS & A; L6 Design Prize, Design Prize; House Prefect; lst XV Rugger; 3rd XI Hockey; 1st VI Tennis; Senior Swimming; Senior Basketball; Intermediate Cross-Country; CCF Sgt, D of E Bronze; Junior Play. (Gap year in Spain, then goes to Sheffield University to read Engineering and Architecture.)

J.E.J. Gifford 1987 F; GCSE & A. (Goes to University of Portsmouth to read Medical Technology,)

Fiona Howard 1986 V; GCSE & A; Distinction Prizes, Home Economics Prize; House Prefect; Girls' Squash; D of E Bronze; Orchestra, Hunting Society. (Goes to Bournemouth University to read Hospitality Management')

N.A. Gill 1985 B, F & W; GCSE & A; House Prefect; 3rd XI Hockey; Junior Judo; Senior Play; (Gap year, working with a band, then goes to university to read Psychology.)

Joanna Howard 1987 V; GCSE; Distinction Prize, Junior Reading Prize; 2nd Girls' Hockey; 2nd VI Girls' Tennis; Girls Swimming; Shooting VIII, Half-Colours; Senior Play. (Goes to Ardingly College.)

N.S. Godden 1986 B & F; GCSE; 3rd XI Hockey; CCF. (Goes to West Kent College.)

A.W. Hubble 1987 L; GCSE & A; Scholar; Current Affairs Prize, MacDonald Prize for Current Affairs, Winstanley Prize for Chemistry; House Prefect; 1st XI Cricket; 1st IV Fives; Suttonian Committee. (Goes to University College, London to read Chemistry.)

Nadine Gunnery 1987 V; GCSE; Distinction Prize.

(Goes to Bethany School.)

R. Hakimnejad 1986 C & M; GCSE & A; (Goes to University of Westminster for Foundation Course in Engineering.)

T.K. Hallett 1985 H. C & M; GCSE & A; Geography Project Prize; House Prefect; 2nd XV Rugger; 2nd XI Hockey; CCF L/Cpl. (Goes to college.)

B.J. Harper 1989 F; GCSE; 1st XI Cricket. (Goes to West Kent College.)

Natalie Harris 1986 V; GCSE & A; Scholar; Distinction Prize, Derrick Prize for Verse Reading; School Prefect; 1st XI Girls' Hockey; 1st VII Netball; 2nd VI Girls' Tennis; Girls' Swimming; Senior Play, Hunting Society, (Gap year in France, then goes to Sheffield Polytechnic to read International Business Studies.)

Nina Hartman 1991 S; 1st VI Girls' Tennis. (Goes to Gymnasium in Germany.)

Emma Harvey 1986 V; GCSE; L6 Home Economics Prize; Senior Play. (Goes to Thanet College for Hotel and Catering.)

A.J. Hepner 1987 L; GCSE & A; Distinction Prizes, Garside Prize for History; School Prefect; 2nd XV Rugger; 2nd XI Hockey; 1st XI Cricket; CCF Sgt; Senior Play. (Goes to Kingston University to read History.)

A.P. Hudd 1985 B & L; GCSE & A; Scholar; Distinction Prizes, Form Prizes, L6 Prize for Physics, OSA Prize, Wood Prize for Physics, Clothworkers' Prize; Head of House, School Prefect; 1st XV Rugger, Full Colours; 1st XI Hockey, Full Colours; Capt. of Cricket, Full Colours; Head of CCF, CSM; Orchestra, Male Voice Chorus. (Goes to St. Andrew's University to read Medicine.)

Kate James 1990 S; A; Distinction Prize, L6 Geography Prize, Geography Prize, Clothworkers' Prize; School Prefect, Refectory Prize; 1st XI Girls' Hockey, Full Colours; Captain of Netball, Full Colours; Captain of Girls' Swimming. Full Colours; CCF L/Cpl; Senior Play. (Gap year ,then goes to university to read Physiotherapy.)

G.S. Jeffes 1987 B & L; GCSE; Distinction Prize; U/16 Rugger. (Goes to Maidstone G.S..)

Beth Johnston 1990 S; A; Scholar, ESU Scholar, OSA Enterprise Award; Head of House, School Prefect; 2nd VII Netball; CCF L/Cpl; Senior Play, Hunting Society. (Goes to Lawrenceville School, New Jersey on E.S.U. Scholarship, then goes to University of Kent to read American Studies.)

Jessica Jones 1989 C & V; Exhibitioner; Distinction Prizes; U/14 Girls' Hockey. (Goes to Cranbrook School.)

B.D. Hewlett 1991 M. (Goes to gymnasium in E. Kasagi 1990 5; GCSE (Goes to Richmond College.)

Germany.)

J. Kentish-Barnes 1985 H & M; GCSE & A; House Prefect, Catherine Hicks 1987 V; GCSE; Distinction Prize; Head of Chapel; 3rd XV Rugger; 3rd XI Hockey; CCF Orchestra. (Goes to Maidstone G.S. for Girls.)

(Signals) S/Sgt; Senior Play, Orchestra, Choir. (Goes to Westminster College for Hotel and Catering.)

-14-

J.P. Kordek 1991 L; (Goes to school.)

A.C. Lee 1987 B & F; GCSE; U/ 16 XI Hockey. (Goes to Mid Kent College.)

G.J. Lee 1987 B & L; GCSE; 1st XI Cricket. (Goes to Maidstone G.S..)

Stephanie Lehmann 1991 S. (Goes to Gymnasium in Germany.)

Rebecca Lillywhite 1989 C & V; Distinction Prize; Choir, Orchestra. (Goes to school in Wales.)

Ursula Maikowski 1991 S; L6 English Prize, L6 Chemistry Prize. (Goes to Gymnasium in Germany.)

Joanna Masterman 1989 V; GCSE; Girls' CrossCountry. (Goes to West Kent College.)

C.D.E. Masters 1986 B, L & M; GCSE & A; House Prefect; 1st XV Rugger, Full Colours; 1st XI Hockey, Full Colours; 1st XI Cricket. (Gap year, then goes to college.)

Lisa Merrifield 1987 V; GCSE; Distinction Prize; U/ 14 Girls' Hockey; Girls' Swimming; D of E Bronze; Senior Play, Choir. (Goes to West Kent College.)

M.C. Milsted 1988 L; GCSE & A; Distinction Prize, L6 History Prize, L6 Religious Studies Prize; House Prefect; Senior Play, Hunting Society. (Goes to St. David's, Lampeter to read History.)

E.G.L. Moore 1987 F; GCSE & A; GCSE Prize; School Prefect; Badminton; CCF Sgt. (Goes to Southampton Institute of Higher Education to read Leisure Management.)

Senior Cross-Country; U/ 15 IV Fives; CCF (RAF) F/ Sgt, D of E Bronze Award; Senior Play, Choir, Male Voice Chorus, Hunting Society, Suttonian Committee. (Goes to University of Bath to read Pharmacy.)

C. Palmer 1987 V; GCSE & A; Art Scholar; Distinction Prize, Form Prize, L6 French Prize, DalerRowney Prize for Art, OSA Prize, Wheeler Prize for French; School Prefect; 1st XI Girls' Hockey, Half Colours; Captain of Girls' Tennis, Half-Colours; 2nd VII Netball; Hunting Society. (Gap year in Canada, then goes to university.)

V.A. Patel 1987 C & W; GCSE & A; Distinction Prize; Squash Team; D of E Bronze Award. (Goes to University of Hertfordshire to read Decision Science.)

Marie Picard 1990 V & S; GCSE; Senior Play. (Goes to The American School in London).

M.J. Picard 1991 B. L & W; U/14 XV Rugger; U/14 Hockey; U/13 Xl Cricket; Junior Play, (Goes to The American School in London.)

Annabel Pillinger 1989 V; GCSE; Girls' Athletics; Senior Play. (Goes to Cranbrook School.)

Catherine Pillinger 1990 V; A; Scholar; L6 Chemistry Prize; CCF Cpl; Senior Play; Suttonian Committee. (goes to Bristol University to read Chemistry.)

C.A. Pope 1987 W; GCSE, AS & A; House Prefect; 1st XV Rugger, Full Colours; 1st XI Hockey; Senior Basketball, Half-Colours; 1st VI Tennis, Half-Colours; Senior Swimming; Intermediate Athletics; Senior Judo; CCF Sgt.; D of E Bronze Award; Senior Play, Hunting Society. (Goes to University of Portsmouth for a Foundation Course in Engineering.)

R.M. Morling 1985 B & F; GCSE & A; U/ 15 XV Rugger; J. Purvis 1989 L; GCSE; U/ 16 XV Rugger. (Goes to CCF (RAF); Senior Play. (Goes to University of Maidstone G.S..)

Plymouth to read Business Studies.)

Katherine Roberts 1987 V; GCSE & A; Distinction Kate Murray 1987 V; GCSE & A; Distinction Prize; Prize; 2nd XI Girls Hockey; Girls' Squash; Girls' Girls' Squash; Senior Play. (Goes to Staffordshire Swimming; Captain of Shooting; Half-Colours; CCF University to read French and Politics.)

C/Sgt. (Gap year, then teacher training.)

Rebecca Norris 1986 V; GCSE & A; House Prefect; 2nd XI Girls' Hockey; Girls' Squash; 1st VI Girls' Tennis, Shooting VIII; CCF C/Sgt; Orchestra, Hunting Society. (Goes to college for Nursing.)

M.N. Nwajei 1987 W; GCSE & A; School Prefect; 1st XV Rugger, Full Colours; 1st IV Fives; Senior Athletics, Full Colours, Junior Play. (Goes to Manchester Polytechnic to read Hotel and Catering Management.)

B.D. Ofori 1987 C & W; Scholar, Distinction Prizes, Form Prize, L6 Biology Prize, OSA Prize, Biology Prize, Headmaster's Prize; Head of School, Head of House, School Prefect;

J.A. Rollinson 1985 B & F; GCSE & A; Scholar; Distinction Prizes, OSA Prize, Ricketts Prize, OSA Enterprise Award; School Prefect, Head of House; 1st XV Rugger; 3rd XI Hockey; Junior Fives; Orchestra, School Play. (Gap year in Australia, then goes to Heriot-Watt University to read Chemistry and French.)

C.M. Sheldon 1990 F; A; 1st XI Hockey. (Goes to Southampton Institute of Higher Education for a Foundation Course in Engineering.)

S. Slattery 1987 H & M; GCSE; Distinction Prizes; 1st XV Rugger, Half-Colours; Intermediate Basketball; -15-

2nd IV Fives; CCF L/Cpl. (Goes to Judd School.)

J.R. Slaughter 1987 F; GCSE & A; Distinction Prizes; House Prefect; 2nd XV Rugger; 2nd XI Hockey; 2nd XI Cricket; U/ 16 VI Tennis; 1st V Squash; CCF S/Sgt; Hunting Society. (Goes to Imperial College, London to read Civil Engineering.)

J.T. Smith 1985 B & W; GCSE & A; Distinction Prizes; House Prefect; Hon. Sec. Rugger, Full Colours; 1st XI Hockey, Full Colours; Captain of Athletics, Full Colours; CCF L/Cpl; Junior Play. (Gap year, then goes to polytechnic.)

S.O. Sowemimo-Coker 1988 H & M; GCSE; 2nd XV Rugger; Intermediate Athletics; Intermediate Basketball; CCF. (Goes to college in London.)

Claire Stainton-James 1987 V; GCSE & A; School Prefect; Captain of Girls' Hockey, Full Colours; 1st VII Netball, Full Colours; 2nd VI Girls' Tennis; CCF Cpl; Orchestra. (Goes to college.)

Tennis; Girls' Swimming; CCF; D of E Bronze Award; Orchestra, Hunting Society. (Goes to University of Hull to read Chemistry.)

J.D. Ward 1985 B & F; GCSE & A; Distinction Prizes; Junior Play; (Goes to Birmingham University to read Biochemistry.)

O.E. Whawell 1985 H & W; Music Scholar; Distinction Prizes, Middle School Music Prize, L6 Music Prize, Richard Horn Prize for Music and Drama, Music Prize, Ricketts Prize, House Prefect; U/ 15 XV Rugger; Senior Athletics; Intermediate Cross-Country; Senior Play, The Gondoliers, Orchestra, Choir, Male Voice Chorus, Hunting Society. (Gap year at Ampleforth College, then goes to university to read Music.)

Rebecca Wilkinson 1987 V; GCSE & A; Distinction Prize; 2nd XI Girls' Hockey; 2nd VII Netball; 2nd VI Girls' Tennis, Girls' Swimming; CCF Cpl; Orchestra.

(Gap year in Canada and the U.S.A., then goes to Kingston University to read Landscape Architecture.)

J. Sykes 1988 F; GCSE (Goes to West Kent College.)

Dharshi Tambiah 1987 V & S; GCSE & A; Scholar, Music Scholar, Distinction Prizes, Form Prize, Middle School Music Prize, L6 English Prize, L6 Music Prize, OSA Prize, Richard Horn Prize for Drama and Music, Music Prize, Headmaster's Prize; Head of School, School Prefect; Orchestra, Choir, Chamber Choir, Suttonian Committee, Hunting Society. (Goes to Manchester University and Royal Northern College to read Music.)

R.D. Todd 1987 F; GCSE & A. (Goes to University of Greenwich to read Business Studies.)

O.D. Togun 1991 M; GCSE. (Goes to school in London.)

Christina Tollast 1990 S; GCSE; CCF. (Goes to 6th Form College.)

P.I. Turner 1991 B; Art Exhibitioner. (Goes to Maidstone G.S.) O. Vickery 1989 L; GCSE; Art Exhibitioner; Distinction Prizes; U/16 XV Rugger. (Goes to Haywood's Heath College.)

D. Walters 1987 B & L; GCSE. (Goes to Maidstone G.S.) B.A. Ward 1987 B & L; GCSE; Distinction Prize; U/ 16 Rugger; U/ 16 XI Hockey; Intermediate Athletics; CCF L/Cpl. (Goes to Canterbury College.)

Hannah Ward 1986 V; GCSE & A; Distinction Prize, Shell Prize for Practical Science, Ricketts Prize; Head of House, School Prize; 1st XI Girls' Hockey, HalfColours; Lst VII Netball, Full Colours; U/ 16 Girls' -16-

T.J.L. Wellard 1989 L; GCSE; Senior Cross-Country, Half-Colours. (Goes to West Kent College.)

Kate Worrall 1988 V; GCSE; Distinction Prize; 1st XI Girls' Hockey; 2nd VII Netball; 2nd VI Girls' Tennis; Orchestra. (Goes to Maidstone G.S. for Girls.)

S. Young 1984 H & M; GCSE, AS & A; Distinction Prize, Edward Craven Prize for Sport; Head of House, School Prefect; Captain of Rugger, Full Colours; 1st XI Hockey, Full Colours; 1st XI Cricket; Captain of Fencing, Half-Colours; Surrey U/ 18 Fencing; U/ 16 Basketball; CCF L/Cpl; Senior Play, i/c Lighting for Drama, Choir, Hunting Society. (Gap year working at Underhill, then goes to University of Brighton for Foundation course in Engineering.)

R.M.K. Yue 1987 M; GCSE & A; Scholar; Distinction Prizes, L6 Maths. Prize, L6 Art and Design Prize, Kitchener Prize for Maths,; 2nd V Fives; Senior Basketball; Fencing; Senior Play; (Goes to Imperial College, London to read Computer Engineering.)

Autumn 1992 Lucy Ashley 1991 C. (Goes to Highgrove School, Ashford.)

P-C P. Chen 1992 M. (Goes to school in U.S.A..)

C.H.T. Chi 1991 M. (Goes to school in U.S.A..)

D.R. Higgins 1992 M; Under 14 Rugger XV. (Goes to King's School, Canterbury.)

Aekta Patel 1990 C & V; (Goes to Thomas Peacocke School, Rye.)

Jessica Stenborg 1990 S. (Goes to Thomas Peacocke School, Rye.)

H.Y.S. Leung 1992 M. (Goes to school in London.)

Marie Valere 1992 S (Goes to school in France.)

Lent Term 1993 P. D. Varney 1992 W U 14 Rugger XV (Goes to Dover Abigail Drury 1992 S (Goes to Highworth School, College.)

Ashford.)

Salvete AUTUMN 1992 LOWER 6 O.J. BELLERBY-BROWN GEORGINA M. GROOM F. LOOS KATERINA FISCHEROVA PETRA HARTMANOVA NATALIE C.S. MARSH J.H. FOET

W V W S S S M

FORM 5 J. FEGER FRANZISKA SCHOLL H.Y.S. LEUNG

W S M

FORM 4 MARGARET J. LAKE JOANNA C. LEGGAT N. SATAKE C.Y. WONG M.J. NOAKES

S V W L F

FORM 3 JANE H. ARMSTONG D.R HIGGINS J.I. SUMNER ELIZABETH C. BAILLIE S.J. HIGNETT B.C. SUNNUCKS A.R. BOULT H.D. HOMEWOOD HANNAH J. TAYLOR N.J. BUNYAN A.R. LOFTSTADT C.J. THOMSON P-C. P. CHEN A.G. LONG P. D. VARNEY G.M. COOK RACHEL E. MURRAY J.A. WALSHAW FRANCES A. CRUTE MITCHELL ONU G.D. WALKER MARTINE J. DAVIES S. PURVIS J.GODDARD J.C. REYNOLDS

V M L S M F L W V F L F M L W W V W V W M S L F M

G. WILLOUGHBY I.D. HARRISON B.C. WOOD

F L L

FORM 2 K. BOONPIBOONPONG SARAH L. LEGGAT KELLY A. REES MARIE K. DURLING H.A.E. LEVY F.J.B. STIFF N.E.I.L. HOCKADAY W.T. SHELLEY JOANNA M. WOODS

H/B C S C H/B H/B H/B B/H S

FORM 1 D.L. BAILLIE SARA A.R.A. HOCKADAY J.E.G. PARRETT CHRISTY BEST C.R. HOLMES U.D. PATEL ANNA E. BLEST ROMY H. HUKINS C.A.C. SANTO T.A. CHANTRY A.S. JOHNSON D.L. SHEPHERD P.R. CLEGHORN KIRSTY L. JOHNSTON LUCY A. SIMMONDS J. COLGAN LUCY JONES T.W. SISLEY D.J. COVENEY NICOLA J. LEGGAT JANE V. WALLIS M.J.A. DAY LAURA C.A. NESFIELD SU MING N. WILD T.J. DEBENS KIRALIE J. PARES SOPHIE C. WILLDRIDGE ABIGAIL M. DRURY CLARE E.M. PARKINSON O.M. WOOD J. EDMUNDSON N.P. PARR SARAH K. WYATT C.E. HAYZELDEN

B/H S B/H S B/H B/H C C B/H B/H H/B H/B H/B C C B/H C B/H B/H C C B/H C C B/H C C S S B/H B/H B/H C B/H

-17-

LENT 1993 LOWER 6 INI ISEMI S

FORM 3 T. KABURAGI HELENA H.J. KWON

FORM 5 YUKA SASAKI S O.H.E. KWON W

SUMMER 1993 FORM 4 FORM 2 M C,C.P.LIU W RYOTO KITA S S MARY Y.M.LIU S FORM 1 E. K. SAINSBURY H/B SIOBHAN K.SAINSBURY C

T.J. STANDING L

THE LAMBE's LIBRARY or the second time in ten years the school has a new library. Although the James Library in the former Art Room on the top corridor in Main Block was a great improvement on its predecessor, it had been obvious for some time that, on two counts, it was proving less than adequate. First, shelf-space for books was running out; secondly the number of study places was limited and pupils were often crammed in too closely for comfortable study. The construction and re-arrangement in the summer of 1992 of the facilities in the Lambe's building made the Lambe's Day-rooms available. The two rooms were knocked into one again and the result once more looked as many O.S. of a thirty year vintage and longer ago will remember when it was the School Dining-Room. Indeed, hanging on the wall inside the entrance is an engraving of the room from that era.

Much of the timber-work was sand-blast cleaned to reveal the beautiful original beams and the most attractive fret-work surrounds to the ceiling. A fine wooden staircase and a gallery were

F

-18-

fitted to provide additional study-desks. More than fifty study places are now available and a great deal more shelf space. In the balcony are four computer terminals connected into the school's Network, with room for more. This new Library and Resources Centre is approached from the 'Tunnel' end, along an attractive colonnade-style corridor off which the Careers Department opens. The result of this reconstruction is a Library in which any school could take pride, with surroundings and atmosphere most conducive to study. Any O.S. or parents visiting the school for the first time since this work are strongly urged to view the new Library: we shall be glad to show you round.

On 22nd. March we were privileged to have the Library opened formally by the distinguished novelist and short-story writer William Trevor C.B.E. His work is well-known to and greartly admired by several; members of staff, including the present Librarian and his immediate predecessor. For them it was a particularly memorable occasion.

J.McC.

CELEBRATING FRANCIS

I

t was a pity that the congregation for this 'liturgical entertainment' turned out to be so small, with disappointingly few pupils present. Parts of it had been assiduously rehearsed during chapel over the preceding weeks and herein may he the explanation for the lack of interest. Under the direction of all the senior musicians the Kyrie Eleison and the song

by Francis describing how he rebuilt the church of St. Da pion were, I fear, overpractised, and a degree of aversion to the event itself crept in.

For those who did go along a most enjoyable and uplifting experience awaited. The Chapel was attractively decorated with paper drapes covered with paintings of animals to which St. Francis showed such attachment, and simple, but well-made costumes gave the occasion a sense of theatre which heightened the liturgical intention of this supplemented mini-opera by John Watson and Alan Ridout. The words of the song, liable to sound trite when removed from their setting and over-sung by growling adolescents, regained their effective simplicity as Francis described the materials- 'beams and roof tiles, bricks and mortar' -with which he literally and metaphorically re-buildt the church.

The varied pace and alternation of song with dialogue sustained interest throughout, and the eager encouragement of the congregation by the princi-

pals met with a full-throated response which culminated in a thunderous AMEN at the end.

I hope that this will not prove to be the only performance: entertainment may seem to more traditional tastes an incongruous concept in an act of worship, but joy is an unavoidable consequence of the Christian experience, and liturgical forms have for too long been dreary to the point of funereal.

The Eucharist occupied the central spot and was witnessed rather than shared by the congregation. We were, however, given a large piece of blessed, but unconsecrated, bread which to this participant, at least, proved remarkably tasty.

Those of us who recall the 1979 election victory

by Margaret Thatcher, will remember her recital (spoken on this occasion by David Wootton at the start of the third scene) of the famous prayer of St. Francis, to whom should be allowed the final comment on this interesting experience: 'Where there is darkness, light: Where there is sadness, joy.'

It provided both.

P.J.Harcourt.

- 19 -

CONFIRMATION Administered in the Chapel of St. Peter, Sutton Valence School by The Rt. Revd Gavin H Reid BA The Bishop of Maidstone on Sunday 23rd May Anno Salutis 1993.

The following were Confirmed by the laying on of hands and the anointing with oil of chrism; and received their first Holy Communion.

Rebecca Duff ell Gemma Hopkins Sophie Willdridge Kate Simmonds Jane Armstrong James Reynolds Timothy Jordon Damien Keys Shawn Purvis James Sumner

Joanna Woods Laura Nesfield Leonie Keys Clare Parkinson Gregory Walker Ian Harrison Adam Boult Ben Morrison Alistair Loftstadt

Epistoler: The Headmaster, Michael R. Haywood MA 1 Peter 2:4-10 Gospeller: The Revd, Clive W. Lee MA, Chaplain of Vine Hall St Matthew 16:24-27

CHAPEL NOTES our more teenagers baptised. Twenty more pupils confirmed. In relation to the school roll the statistics are normal for Sutton Valence. In the last five years we have had over twenty baptisms and nearly one hundred and fifty confirmations.

The change to weekly boarding has had an extremely adverse effect upon the number of communicants but the number of individual acts of communion is still extremely high; nearly three thousand a year.

The ubiquitous 'news' compels us to an increasing awareness of the need for correct belief, by which I mean spiritually, intellectually, socially and politically redeeming belief: saving belief which generates, enhances and completes life. We can do without any form of exclusivism which naturally results in some kind of 'ethnic cleansing', not just in Bosnia but anywhere. There is belief that destroys and belief that creates. Young people are often acutely aware of the fact that no belief at all is even worse than bad belief. The lesson refused by most of us is that the vacuum of non-belief is invariably filled by a monster. That is what happened recently in Texas and is happening in Bosnia: real Islam and real Orthodoxy were long ago crushed by Communism in the latter. Young people are readily aware of the emptiness of so much of socalled adult life. Some young people are, naturally, only too ready to ape the worst excesses of the adults. Some brave ones accept and embrace the emptiness. Many want a spiritual solution: the

F

-20-

solution we most often failed to offer. It is, quite simply, wicked for adults to discourage the young who are looking for something better than the 'mess you got me into'.

At Sutton Valence a saving belief is presented as a serious option. Everything that is done in the chapel is related to the attempt to offer to children and young people a positive programme for inner development. Running from hell is not the programme, even the hell on earth of some of the places mentioned above. The programme is to travel towards God and heaven. The programme is demanding, intelluctually and spiritually, and it is lifelong. My perception of God is, I think, rather different from that of even the most lively Sixthformer. To be human is to change. God does not change. He is there for teenager and for priest. The programme involves a discussion of essentials.

Without this discussion we are mere machines. The life of Jesus Christ is not understood as a paradigm for bourgeois morality. Hard-thinking, a living spirituality and the bold imitation of the noblest life are good phrases which might be used to summarise the programme.

Compulsory chapel every day and compulsory religious studies are not universally endorsed.

For the moment they remain. If they should ever be replaced, what would they be replaced with?

Father John.

FRIENDS OF SUTTON VALENCE SCHOOL SUMMER BARBECUE TAT That did we do to deserve such glorious V V weather? The Friends' lunchtime Bar B Que which was held on Lower on June 21st must go on record as one of our most successful and enjoyable events. The food was expertly cooked by our talented team of chefs, seen in the picture, calmly beginning to serve to a ravening horde of over two hundred. The day progressed with enthusiastic

games of rounders, five or something-u-side football and tennis. The pool was open from 2pm onwards for overwrought and overheated combatants to cool off. The afternoon stretched lazily into evening with hangers-on basking in the late sunshine. ÂŁ500 was raised towards our bid to purchase a new video camera for the school. Many thanks to all those who helped to make it such a great day.

WORK EXPERIENCE Claire Wilkinson; Bewl Bridge as Sailing Instructor, I arrived on my first day looking forward to a week of watersports and boatmanship. Equipped with my wetsuit. I met up with my supervisor who, on arrival, handed me sandpaper, brush and varnish. He pointed at an old wardrobe and told me to get going. This was my job as "sailing instructor"?

The remainder of the week was pretty much the same sort of thing although I did sail on one of the days!

I would strongly recommend a week at Bewl Bridge to those in the Building gang but not to anyone keen on watersports!

Bianca Armstrong; Headcorn Primary School Class of 5/6 year olds.

-

Although not my first choice for work experience, helping at Headcorn Primary School was certainly a memorable experience!

Although Sutton Valence School promotes smartness of dress and appearance for the week, the best clothes for this job are those you do not value too highly.

The day usually began with a tantrum of some sort and was followed by different types of learning exercises. As I was somewhat of a novelty in the class I was continually removing snotty-nosed, screaming children from around my arms, waist and ankles: aside from all this it was a lot of fun.

Tim Lavers: I.C.I. I spent an enjoyable week at I.C.I. following a female chemical engineer. She was writing up a blue-print for a new chemical plant in Germany.

Most of the work was done on computers so I learnt how to use many programmes.

Ruth Bourne; Maidstone Police.

Working with Maidstone Police was certainly very interesting. I spent much of my time out in police cars on call to many different situations; burglaries, car chases, traffic accidents and, on one more serious occasion, a stabbing.

This insight into the police force made me much more aware of the difficulties encountered when working directly with the public and I enjoyed the friendly atmosphere very much.

-21-

REVIEWS

Waiting for Godot Sutton Valence School Chapel October 15th 1992

O

utside, a cold crisp October evening. Inside, a cold crisp October evening. Snuggled together for warmth, we gaze in the direction of the altar, now transformed into a milky white swamp-dipped skeleton of a tree. And then the play begins. On come the actors, all dressed in tatters, with the wit of all eternity on their lips. The words they speak we know. The echoes of the everyday giving comfort, and yet the endless repetition and re-positioning also asking us to hear them afresh. I am reminded of the tetchiness of humanity. How easily bored, how quick to take offence, how ready to sulk, and how very impatient. We wait with them, sharing a similar sense of dissatisfaction.

In time, another dimension is added by the arrival of Pozzo and Lucky. The endless cycle of waiting jostled by the angularity of their masterslave dynamic. Now we are asked to feel for humanity at a point of extremity. When it forces an amazing onslaught of words from the mouth of Lucky, so excellently focused by Emily Ward, we do indeed feel that anguish.

The poetic qualities of language in the second -22-

act, take us beyond the colloquial and we hear the inexhaustible flow of their poetry and appreciate it as another tactic by Vladimir and Estragon to keep themselves united in language, and therefore, not alone. We see by this, the increasing difficulties they have agreeing on a shared reality. The accepted concept of time, with its yesterdays, tomorrows, and todays, is revealed to be so fragile. Estragon, in particular, shows difficulties with this logic. Vladimir, to the contrary, persists with his belief in the logic of time and desperately tries to make Estragon believe the same. Their struggle to deal with time, its unfulfilled dates, its memories, and its failed futures, speaks profoundly. The date in our diary to see this play, our date with Godot, connects us with this struggle most intimately. Our date to see the play becomes one of the ways of passing our time on earth together. And as we emerge from the warmth and companionship offered by our fellow play goers in the pews, we greet the October evening once again and "it's night once more".

Jane Boston Senior Lecturer in Voice and Acting, The Central School of Speech and Drama, London.

Waiting for Godot Sutton Valence School Chapel, October 14th 1992. amuel Beckett's Wailing for Godot is in the same category of 20th century art as Stockhausen's music, James Joyce's novels and Arthur Guinness' stout. We have all heard of it and are pretty certain we don't like it, which is good enough reason for not trying it. It has the reputation of being 'difficult', as much for the audience as for the cast, and it might therefore be thought that presenting the work with an all-female cast in the starkly simple setting of the Sutton Valence Chapel was not designed to make the audience's task any easier.

But those who braved it, either from a sense of duty or because they were blissfully unaware of what they were letting themselves in for, had a considerable surprise. The combination of Beckett's textual gymnastics and the cast's astonishing confidence proved fully equal to the challenge of holding the, sadly, small audience's attention for a full two hours, despite arctic temperatures and the hardness of the pews.

At the end, we still of course did not know what it was all about, if anything, but that did not seem to matter. We had all, audience and cast alike, taken part in a 20th century phenomenon which left us vaguely mystified as to why we were not bored to tears, but strangely satisfied that we had survived and were still, until the last moment, interested in what is clearly not going to happen.

We, the audience, were of course left amazed at the scale of the mountain climbed by Rebecca Gear and Vicki Phillips in learning Beckett's deluge of words, but more so at their and their fellows' ability to hold our attention and, yes, make us laugh, as they transmitted them to us.

Our thanks then to John Watson and the SVS Theatre Workshop for having the courage to present this 20th century cliche, and the temerity to inveigle us, in one way or another, into coming. Not only did we surprise ourselves in enjoying Mr. Beckett's 'black tulip', but we will have the inestimable advantage in any future conversation on 20th century drama of actually having seen it.

S

very vague plot: two men, Vladimir (Vikki Phillips) and Estragon (Rebecca Gear), out on the streets have slowly gone slightly eccentric and senile. They are waiting for a man named Godot who, somehow will bring them a better life but they wait day after day and always a boy brings an excuse, saying that he will arrive the next day, but he never does.

Occasionally they meet a man named Pozzo, and his slave Lucky. These parts of the play are very humorous and Lucky (Emily Ward) carried out her lines very well. Madeleine Gear played Pozzo, an absent-minded man who seems incapable of carrying out anything unless asked to! Rebecca Gear and Vikki Phillips were the stars of the play and acted very well as smelly old tramps! Well worth ÂŁ2.50 of anybody's money!

Antony S. Kennedy 4B

Andrew Bond

Waiting for Godot Performed by the SVS Theatre Workshop A Critic's Point of View. his play was very well-acted and boasted a perfect atmosphere. A lot of the play required the viewer to have a good imagination as it leaves you with more questions than answers. There is a

T

-23-

The Ancient Mariner by Samuel Taylor Coleridge tella Haywood was inspired by the experimental work of Michael Bogdanov at the National Theatre. He has presented a number of narrative poems in dramatic spectaculars, most notably Fliawatha, an adaptation of Henry Wordsworth Longfellow's Song of Hiawatha. She decided to adapt Samuel Taylor Coleridge's great Romantic poem The Rime of the Ancient Mariner for the annual junior play.

Bogdanov has also worked with this text and here at Sutton Valence was a modest tribute to the great director. It was a good idea and it worked.

It would be fair to say that we were witnessing work in progress'. The show improved night after night on the three nights when the reviewer attended.What began as a rather untidy piece developed into a fairly tight production by the last night when the VIPs attended.

When we came into the theatre we were given a nice, clean and clear programme designed by Romy Hukins. The importance of a programme can hardly be exaggerated. It helps to set the audience into a positive frame of mind with the expectation of something 'professional', if it is done properly. Romy helped this production. The set was the handiwork of Marcus Palmer, assisted by Mike Willdridge and others. It was an essential part of the show and worked increasingly well over three nights. The albatross flew on cue and the sails went up and down in tempo! William Kentish Barnes provided good sound and light.

The performances were on the whole energetic and disciplined. A word of appreciation should be included in this review. At the end of a busy week many parents are glad to have a rest on Sunday and this includes a rest from the daily drive in and out of school. Many musical and theatrical productions have been sabotaged by those who take leading parts and then fail to turn up for a Sunday rehearsals, phoning in a fatuous excuse at the last minute.

Matthew Groom, who played the Ancient Mariner in this production, speaking his lines clearly and with great sincerity,has appeared in no less than six productions since he came to Sutton Valence. He is a day-boy. I doubt if he has ever missed a rehearsal and this is a great tribute to his chauffeur! Matthew is an enthusiast and has the added advantage of encouragement. School Theatre can only survive as a Sunday activity. In this show, as in so many others, the director is at the mercy of players and parents.

Directors are always thankful for the support which they do receive.

The magic and mystery of this pastiche of an ancient British ballad was never lost in this production and that is to say a great deal. We left the theatre conscious of the activities of that supernatural world which exists in parallel with the world of matter. A high achievement for a cast so young.

Presbyteros

S

-24-

The Ancient Mariner (not written by an Arts critic)

I

thought that an ancient marina was an old car, or maybe a harbour for old pleasure boats until I discovered SVS (spelling never was my strong poynte!)

Nevertheless, I paid for my tickets and was horrified to find that I had to spend another 20p on a programme. I asked if I could just borrow one and go and photocopy it but the lady at the desk wouldn't let me: never mind.

So there we were eagerly waiting with excited tension. The actors were excited and the parents were tense. Pupils may think that mums and dads enjoy performances but they only really enjoy them ending. Parent sits with baited breath until sprog appears on stage. The the pulse rate rises, beads of sweat appear on brow and parent waits for the actor to make a mistake.... if it happens the parent gets a prickly feeling all over, the knuckles go whiter than at Alton Towers, heart beat goes berserk and parent has the silly feeling that everyone is looking at him/her (a bit like when you wear a crash helmet for the first time).

Anyway it wasn't about an old car it was about a wedding, it seemed, on a rather strange sloping green stage... it was a very attractive scene to begin the play. I think that they got married because they all went away then, but then... magic... metamorphosis.. before your very eyes the silly green slope is transformed to a brilliant ship. Full marks to the set designer, the painters and the actors and stage gang who transformed same.

It really was very impressive although I was a bit worried when actors climbed up the mast. I had seen a small boy walking offstage pulling the rope which erected the mast, and I had visions of him holding it for the entire performance and being tickled or kicked by afriend" or sneezing and letting go of the rope, just as a sailor or a face was delivering a punch line. It didn't happen, so some planning had obviously been done by the technical director. In fact, everything technical worked well for the performance on the Friday.

So there was the Ancient Mariner, the Young mariner and many assorted mariners. .a nice scene although it worried me that they didn't have names and this could not have been technically correct.. .a fault of the play. I couldn't imagine sailors going around saying... "hello Ancient Mariner", "Oh, good morning mariner who hauls up the sail", etc. The lines were well-remembered so congratulations to the actors, but I always think that it is unfortunate that the acoustics of the hall are poor and most of the words got lost before they reached me (reflected and diffracted all over the place) so I didn't really hear what was going on. I managed to get through my entire school career without having to do the Ancient Mariner and I must confess that I have not borrowed it from the Library since so I wasn't exactly sure what was happening. Never mind it - was an enjoyable evening and I got the gist of the play/ poem. It was when the albatross came down that I realised how uncultured I was (in a literary sense of course - after all there are two cultures!). The definition of an uncultured person must be "one who hears the William Tell overture and thinks of the Lone Ranger" or "one who hears the Sorcerer's Apprentice and thinks of Mickey Mouse"... can YOU honestly think of an albatross without thinking of John Cleese and the likelihood of a big foot coming down? You can only if you are young!

The albatross worked well, and this was the main point of the story... it is bad luck to shoot an albatross (DP told us that beforehand). Well it is especially bad luck if you happen to be an albatross. Anyway this one apparently landed on poor old "Young" and squashed him/her, then the wind dropped and dancers appeared! The dancing was really very good, especially the morris dancing and so was the music.. .well done (Bowker)z...but I was not sure why people were dancing in the sea whilst poor old "Ancient" and "Young" and the crew were stuck without the wind. Still it was a good job that something was calm, because all the sailors died next!

There were quite a lot of rather long speeches and "Ancient" sounded a bit fed up, but I suppose you would be really. These were broken up by more dancing from people and waves (effective) meanwhile "Young" stayed squashed under the albatross but nevertheless gave a spirited performance.

In the end it all turned out right although it took rather a long time for "Young" to get out from under the albatross and all the sailors came alive again. I was pleased for them, because it must be lousy being an actor who is killed off early on in a play.

They all became happy and started singing (as sailors do), but I was not too happy about some of the off-key singers.. .1 though initially that the producer might have suggested tactfully that they mimed,

but no! In fact it was only later that I realised that it was a masterstroke of production... if you asked twenty sailors on a ship to sing a jolly song would they all sing in tune?. .of course not. Mind you they would probably sing different songs from Blow the Wind Southerly too.

All in all an enjoyable evening because a lot of people had got involved and even those with small parts to play in the production had done well.

One tip... when you say "thanks" at the end of the performance, make sure that everyone is remembered. The Music crew added a dimension to many scenes, as did the projectionists and especially well done to the lighting crew who weren't mentioned (you are now). Why didn't you flash the lights a bit to remind them?..I hope that I haven't forgotten anyone!

Anon

Too much punch for Judy

T

he visit of APE Theatre Company on March 24th 1993 was ahighlightof SVS Theatre Progrcn nmeand that is to say a great deal in a school which had seen no less than six productions in the academic year up to that date.

The actors in this company made an immediate connection with their young audience because they themselves were young. Fay Davies as Judy was never over the top but invested the part with extraordinary energy and drive. Judy, like every character in the play, is drawnfromreallife. The play is baseduponanincident in the life of a girl who killed her sister in a drink-drive accident in around 1985. It has since toured the country extensively, playing mainly to senior school pupils, and has now been seen by many thousands. It is worth the time and attention given to it not only asa most successful piece of theatre but as a moral message on the dangers of drink-driving.

The execution of the play was highly professional.

The tuning, whether of actor, lighting, tapes or slides, was of thehighest standard. Alittlenote of appreciation should bernade hereto SVS Lighting Director, Will Kentish-Bcanes who lit the show for the company with no rehearsal. The professional actors and director registered a particular vote of thanks to him. The sound effects were striking: the music used captured precisely the right mood for the production and was welcomed by the teenage audience who often find 'theatre music' boring. The wording of the script was emotionally true and seemed to be authentic. The ending was greeted with tumultuous applause after an initial stunned silence in which some members of the audience were obliged to leave the auditorium in tears.

The workshops conducted immediately after the performance were no less effective and powerful. Each workshop leader was a member of the cast. They explored many questions relating to the script in a lively, dramatic and interesting manner.

Stephen E. Buckler 5C. -25-

Simone

D

aughter of a well-to-do, secularised Jewish couple, Simone Weil, a gifted scholar and a contemporary of Sartre, de Beauvoir and Samuel Becket, taught philosophy in various parts of France.

Fired by a painful awareness of the injustices in society, she espoused a number of popular causes, worked in a factory and fought in the Spanish Civil War. In the wake of several overwhelming religious experiences, she embraced Roman Catholicism, though was never baptised. Wishing to identify with the sufferings of her follow countrymen in Nazioccupied France, she refused, even when seriously ill, to eat more than was available to ordinary Frenchmen. Her enfeebled health could not withstand such further assaults, and she died of starvation and tuberculosis in August, 1943, in Ashford, Kent, where a road is named after her.

John Watson's one-act play attempted, through a series of vignettes, to depict the major episodes in the life of Simone Weil. We see her first in the Ashford Sanatorium, attended by a nurse and doctor who are desperately concerned that her refusal to eat will precipitate a coma and death. This scene then merges through flashback into a conversation between the precocious young Simone and her brother, Andre. She repudiates the luxuries her wealthy background provides and seeks knowledge through reading and the right to be able to do all things allowed to boys: 'Did you tell them that you are going to play rugby for France?', her brother wants to know. Putting her French nationality before her Jewishness and declaring her atheism, Simone exclaims: 'I'm definitely French. I don't believe in God and you have to believe in God to be a Jew.' There then followed scenes in which she meets Simone de Beauvoir, Andre Blum, a factory foreman, with whom she converses on the dangers and drudgery of factory work (the norms are laid down by some pitiless bureaucrat) and exchanges views on the ideals being fought for in the Spanish Civil War ('This is a war between starving peasants against rich landowners'.) Her motives for her involvement are constantly questioned and belittled ('Patronising the workers! Champagne socialist(s)! 'All you bleedin' intellectuals - Your lives are so bloody boring that you love war.') An unwilling proto-feminist, Simone struggles against the entrenched prejudice and pig-headedness of male domination in the world outside the designated female compound of docile and compliant domesticity. Like a latter-day Joan of Arc (complete with headaches) she all but denies her femininity to achieve credibility for emotions that were quintessentially feminine: compassion and concern for the weak and oppressed.

She converses with a voice in a scene that depicts her espousal of Catholic Christianity. The conviction was suddenly borne upon her that Christianity is pre-eminently a religion of slaves. She then -26-

meets General de Gaulle. He charges her with 'wallowing in generalities' in her writings instead of concentrating on the practical problems of the Free French. Her concerns for the coming Fourth Republic are more spiritual. In the turmoil of the war she sees the loss of community among her people and wishes to engender a sense of obligation in them, 'duties before rights'. She repudiates the General's pragmatic separation of politics, religion and science, for to her politics unifies the other two and creates order. She then collapses and the cycle of scenes closes on itself as her imminent death in the first one comes to pass. A short epilogue then summarises the major events and aims of her life.

This short play was an ambitious undertaking.

To give a three-dimensional dynamism to such an enigmatic and elusive personality offered a particular challenge to Kathryn Hannah. To say that she did not convincingly convey the intellectual fervour and desperate compassion of Simone is not to

denigrate the attempt. The 'Thinker who wished above all things to be a Doer' created an unreconciled duality in the person which is fiercely difficult to embody in a dramatic creation. This made the character of Simone, therefore, too protean, and to infuse the part with a convincing integrity over such a short play was possibly asking too much. There is material for something more substantial, as has been seen, for example in plays about Melanie Klein and C.S. Lewis. Both Kathryn and her fellow actors, notably John Adam and Garbrielle Browning, maintained an interest in the events of Simone's life, despite the longueurs created by the playing of the full versions of some delightfully nostalgic and evocative interlude songs, by Edith Piaf et al. In fact, one or two of the scenes would have made highly successful work-shop sketches. I was especially impressed by the expressionistic factory scene, and Will Slater's impromptu mine-show was so good as

to be a distraction.

A similar, but more substantial treatment of a better-known figure would have been more successful.

Simone Weil, undeservedly, despite an excellent recent biography by Prof. David Maclellan, remainstooperipheral a personality in the post-war world of letters and fails to arouse (in such a short offering) more than a passing interest. As a workshop piece it gave the directors and actors plenty of scope for experimentation, and all involved clearly enjoyed the performance. The burden of ideas which the concentrated and over-spaced scenes had to carry proved ultimately too heavy for the youth of the players comfortably to carry along and express with conviction and clarity.

All technical aspects were excellent, and as one has come to expect from John Watson's productions: costumes, props, make-up and all the other things that make involvement in drama rewarding and encouraging for young people reflected careful thought.

P.J.Harcourt

Trick. First, we witnessed a birth onstage presented with pathos and with wit. Then we relived a childhood which everyone recognized. The journey of mankind was portrayed as the pilgrimage of an innocent through the magical worlds of Play and comedy towards tragedy and ultimately to death itself. It was an extraordinarily energetic production.

After the show, the group presented a workshop on the history of masks. They introduced the background of the masks. We were allowed to handle a marvellous collection of many traditional masks from different parts of the world. In the workshop, the actors suggested how masks have probably affected the life of the theatre. The company had a tremendous range of modern theatrical masks, most of them made by Glenn Canfield who illustrated their original purpose. The audience were completely involved in the activity. Several pupils were placed at the centre of the action with a strange mask to wear. It was observed that the actor was virtually 'taken over' by the mask. This sounds bizarre but in time we all tried on one mask after another and I think that we would all say that it is true. The mask creates a performance of its own.

We were all sorry when the great hampers of masks were taken off to 'take over' another audience. This was a very successful theatrical event.

Stephen E. Buckler 5C

Twelfth Night or What You Will by William Shakespeare

T

Masks in Arts' Week

E

VOKE is a theatre company, founded by Glen Caulfield in July 1991, which specialises in the Theatre of Mask. EVOKE tours the country every Winter with their production The Jiggery Pokery Trick to illustrate the creation and use of original masks. On Thursday 21st January, EVOKE came to Sutton Valence and anyone who needed to be convinced that masks has a use in the modern theatre was probably converted, as I certainly was, by what EVOKE correctly described as the magic of masks. The real stars of the afternoon were certainly the masks and that is a compliment to the actors who wore them, not a criticism. We were all to learn how difficult acting in masks can be.

In the first hour of their presentation this highly professional company of masked players took us on the life's journey of Everyman in The Jiggery Pokery

he costuming of this show was an eloquent comment on the Thatcherite recession: retired ex-surplus uniforms, superannuated surplices, hoteliers hand-me-downs, candy-striped jackets of a vanished varsity and redundant hippie clothing vied for a photo opportunity. Actors felt happy in their chosen get-ups and got on with their business, content in the sartorial confusion. The comfort of actors is especially important for amateurs and the sudden arrival of a crate of period costumes can mark the beginning of chaos in an otherwise tidy show though we realised on this occasion that someone was probably keeping a tight budget for the school theatre. For this production of Twelfth Night relaxed entertainment was on hand: the costumes told us so.

The set, by contrast, looked a little too expensive and contrived. Black 'beams' hinted at the Shakespearean stage of long ago and wall reflected wall without reference to actual mirrors, though these were found hanging from three walls in cheeky reference to the walls of the set, to Viola and Sebastian, to the nice programme cover and, perhaps, to the gender confusion which is a part of this play: one which was subtly underplayed with such a young cast and in a school hall! Anyway, the straight man's Ying and Yang set looked good and it fitted the play. Its practical value was obvious. The actors -27-

were boxed in by the set on this small stage and this had the advantage of pushing the players towards the audience It was a robust set surviving many attacks from Will Slater who collided with it on all three nights attended by this writer.

The music for this production was a delight.

The Overture, played at the piano by the composer and Director, made reference to other tunes which we have heard and enjoyed in other shows. The simple and uncluttered melodies for this play were always a joy to listen to. It is a pity that the miming

by Feste did not work. It rarely does, as we know from those Television shows which insist on using it.

The singing itself was a highlight of the evening.

Sutton Valence is fortunate to have a competent composer at hand.

Shakespeare's script was skilfully cut and the production moved at a pace. This gentle comedy was a good vehicle for a cast which was made up of a number of inexperienced actors. Martin Bruce must be warmly congratulated for giving them an opportunity to perform to an acceptable standard, given the limited time available. Catherine Colthurst did some good work in a difficult role which she took over from a girl four years her senior at short notice.

Malvolio was played with self-conscious enthusiasm by Damian Penfold. His sense of the comic nature of the role conveyed itself to the audience on consecutive nights and brought him much praise in the bar after the performances.

In the week of this production the Independen t newspaper carried a report which lamented the inability of English professional actors to speak the lines of our greatest playwright. It is hardly surpris-

ing that this difficulty was experienced by young amateurs. It is rarely appreciated that a young actor approaching Shakespeare in a rehearsal schedule of only three weeks is attempting the impossible: we would not expect a pianist to play a Mozart concerto after only a few weeks on the instrument but that is exactly what we are asking school actors to do when they approach the great classical plays. How fortunate we were to hear one young man who can speak his lines with a clarity of diction and quality of sound which defies criticism. John Adam spoke the lines of the priest every night with sincerity and purity of intention. It was good to hear him. I hope that he will learn to employ his body with as much style. He is very wooden but, with practice, he could give us some substantial performances before he is much older.

This was good entertainment and everyone who participated must have learnt some valuable lessons in stage-craft and in Fun.

Presbyteros

LLOYDS BANK THEATRE CHALLENGE

SVS Theatre Workshop Entry for 1993 A Family Portrait From the Royal National Theatre: ASSESSOR'S REPORT BY SHARON HOWARD THE VENUE The play was performed in a beautiful, traditional school hall with a permanent raised stage and proscenium arch. The main acting area for this production was located in front of the existing stage, although the stage area was used for the opening and closing images of the play. The seating was raised on a platform and positioned end-on to the acting area. The space was well-equipped with lights and a piano which was used during the performance.

LEVEL OF SUPPORT The school and company are lucky to have such a dedicated and tireless leader in John Watson. He has sustained an impressive record of work over a number of years in a school where there are many opportunities and demands upon pupils' time.

Although pressure of time meant a telescoped rehearsal period for this production the company benefits from workshops with visiting professionals throughout the academic year.

ADMINISTRATION

A ~x -28-

Contact with the company was thorough and efficient, not to mention courteous. I received a personal

letter and script from one of the young authors of the play, in addition to precise information and help with travel.

The show was supported by a well-produced programme and the evening was efficiently organised and run. Refreshments were provided for the audience after the performance and a very pleasant supper for the assessor and the company,

was most successful when the wit of the authors was allowed to percolate through. I would have liked the script to delve more deeply into what was really happening below the surface for individual members of the Imperial Family. The character of Maria (Emily Ward) was a delightfully provocative and creative invention. The length (45 minutes) was ideal for the Challenge.

THE PERFORMANCE

LIGHTING

Peasants scurrying on the floor in front of us immediately threw the audience into twentieth century Russia - the early years of the century, fraught and rather dark.

Taking a formal photographic pose of the Russian Imperial family as a starting point, the play went on to explore the family relationships and the reality behind the facade.

The stage beautifully created a sense of formality and order with the dominant images those of the icons and candles which tower not only above the space but also over the lives of all the characters.

The design was simple but effective. The costumes were largely designed and created from scratch for this production. The effect was well-judged and obviously helped the actors to key into the physicality and style of playing necessary for this piece.

The play largely relied upon duologues, or monologues directly addressed to the audience, rather than large scale interactions between the characters onstage. The speeches were articulated well and the actors managed to convey the formality of a mode of speech which is alien to modern day life. This they did with grace and a certain ease.

A lot of work had obviously gone into movement and speech which paid dividends on the night. One was left with admiration for a company who could physically adapt to the demands of the their material. Voices were well-supported, projection and audibility were faultless.

Two original songs were performed during the show. They added greatly to the dynamics of the evening and left me wishing that more songs could have been used to explore the characters and themes of the play.

Although the formality achieved by the family was generally appropriate to the material the final effect was perhaps a little too static really to explore dramatically some of the ideas and themes but the material was quite obviously thoroughlyresearched and the play was very informative, most of the information being revealed in a declamatory style rather than through the actions and interactions of the characters.

The lighting was an integral part of the show, creating the various locations and different moods required by the text, at times dark and shadowy, at others a warm flood of light suffusing the stage. The actors were always well and appropriately lit. The lighting was always atmospheric. The final family photograph was taken in a blood-bath of light, indicative of the doomed family's fate. Perhaps the final lighting effect and pose were held a little too long?

The Company for A Family Portrait was made up of pupils who were invited to participate in the Theatre Challenge. Covering a very wide age-group (12 18), some members of the cast were obviously very much more experienced than others. But everyone contributed successfully to the performance. Even those drafted in at the last minute to play the Russian peasants gave committed performances.

THE SCRIPT Stephen Buckler and Alex Mansfield admirably managed to convey a great deal of information in a very concise way. Each character's point of view was given its place in the text. I felt that the writing -29-

AREAS OF STRENGTH The physical and vocal discipline was very impressive. The confidence of the group and their faith in the director was evident in tackling an entirely original piece in such a short space of time. The company worked well together. No single performance was allowed to dominate the production.

Technically, the presentation operated superbly.

The show was well directed, using the space imaginatively. The setting and costumes were very effective.

SUGGESTIONS FOR DEVELOPMENT I would like to see the actors exploring their vocal capabilities more fully. The voices were undoubtedly strong but did not fully reveal their flexibility: often a speech would fix on the same dynamic for too long. Developing changes in pace and tone and inflexion would be valuable ways to reveal character and the sub-text. Exploring sub-text and the ways of revealing the inner thoughts of character would be dramatically rewarding and would help the actors to develop their performances and creative thinking.

The company deserves full marks for attempting an original and challenging piece of work in such a short space of time Well done!

-30-

LLOYDS BANK THEATRE CHALLENGE

SVS Theatre Workshop Entry for 1993 A Family Portrait

S

chool productions are notorious for (and synonymous with) complete disaster and a poor quality of production, although they rarely fail to be entertaining. A Family Portrait was very definitely an exception and cause for pessimists to beware. I went to this production largely out of curiosity and only partly to avoid work and relax, and came away very impressed. Well-staged and cast, it impressed me with the calibre of acting. The expanse of the stage caused some problems, however, and many others like myself had to crane their necks to see past buoyant hair-dos to the action. This shortcoming aside I was kept interested by the diversity of the storyline and its realism (as far as possible if songs are to be sung) was evident. None of the actors or actresses seemed to miss a cue and all were clear.

The singing was yet another surprise and fitted in, a marked difference between the two songs working well. Having known myself the frantic quality of rehearsals and the problems that never seem to die before the performance I found myself impressed and grateful to the cast for an interesting evening despite missing part of the action through choosing a bad seat and the final popping salute of a dying bulb.

W.J. Slater L6

SUTTON VALENCE SCHOOL HOUSE DRAMA 1993 A good deal of work had clearly gone into the presentation of these short plays. They made for an entertaining evening full of variety and with much humour - if not all of it intended. The level of both acting and speaking was high and there were some children of conspicuous talent.

VALENCE - The Problem by A.R. Gurney Jnr. Valence made the most imaginative and challenging choice of text and pulled it off with great aplomb.

The doubling was striking and worked well. The direction, though it flagged in the second half when Miss Phillips and Miss Gear were directing themselves, was intelligent and responsive to the text.

The play was allowed to breathe and the pauses were always meant. The only weakness was in reacting to the laughter of the audience, but learning to ride the laughs in a piece like this is perhaps impossible in a single performance.

WESTMINSTER - Pyramus and Thisbe after William Shakespeare.

Westminster supplied proof, if it were still needed, that it is impossible to go wrong with Act 5 of A Midsummer Night's Dream. Not all of the lines were learnt as securely as one might have wished and the tendency for some of the actors to face upstage whenever possible obscured even some of the lines which had been learnt. The piece was never less than funny, but there were moments when a closer reading of the text would have yielded even more laughs. Where, for instance, was the lantern? Mr. Walshaw gave a delightful cameo of Snout The Wall and Mr. Onu, whilst not being quite Eddie Murphy, had all the cocky conceit one looks for in ones Bottom.

SUTTON - The Prodigal Son by Garrison Kellor.

Sutton's effort I thought to be the least interesting text, but it supplied the greatest staging challenges of the evening and Miss Baler coped with them most competently. This was a large cast, for the most part well-drilled. The use of Miss Fischerova to provide piano accompaniment and the three young ladies as snuffling pigs showed a real sense of theatricality and a valiant attempt to bring some lightness to a worthy text. Miss Leung as The Publican, relentlessly polishing a single glass, was the cameo performance of the evening.

LAMBE'S - Boy Scouts by Waterhouse and Hall.

This was an amusing sketch, rather lost in the suppressed giggles of its performers and upstaged by some extraordinary over-acting from a starstruck cigarette. Mr. Willdridge did his best to keep Baden Powell's upper lip stiff throughout.

ST. MARGARET'S - Tin tern Abbey Part 2 by Jonathan Reynolds.

Mr. Slater directed this extended sketch about the childhood of Rupert Murdoch with considerable skill - if there had been a director's prize it would surely have been his. The production looked good, it was well blocked, and the lighting and staging of young Rubert's tabloid outburst was a genuine coup de theatre. Mr. Hignett and Mr. Reynolds are confident actors to be encouraged, Mr. Slater himself a talented actor, and Mr. Walker gave an excellent performance.

The entire evening was very smoothly handled technically and well-lit by Mr. Kentish Barnes.

Luke Dixon Soho, May 1993

Evelyn Glennie

-31-

Music SUMMER CONCERT 1992.

T

his concert was dedicated by Philip Aldred, its indefatigable organiser, to the memory of Sir Charles Groves, one of the school's most distinguished Old Boys. It was therefore fitting that it should have opened with Sir Arthur Bliss' rousing arrangement of the National Anthem, a piece championed by Sir Charles. This was preceded by a striking fanfare composed by Vicky Moon, a Lower Sixth pupil.

Then followed the most substantial item in the concert. Beethoven's A major Concerto is one of the great works of the piano repertoire and for any eighteen year-old just to play all the notes from memory is a major achievement. Dharshi Tambiah, however, did considerably more than that. The energy and authority of her playing, particularly in the monumental first movement, were plain for all to see. She might perhaps have lingered a little longer over some of the more meditative passages of the development but her control of both Beethoven's bold, rough-hewn arpeggios and of some of his more delicate accompanying passages was admirable.

The extraordinary slow movement, despite its 'Andante con moto' marking, might have had more impact had the tempo been a little more consistent and rather slower but there was playing of considerable sensitivity here, nevertheless. In the 'Vivace' finale Dharshi coped very well with the considerable technical difficulties of the movement and produced a performance of great vitality. The orchestra also deserves credit for some polished playing, especially of some awkward passages in the last movement, on very limited rehearsal time. There were perhaps, signs of tiredness towards the end of the concerto, but the final cadenza was played with great 'elan' to round off a fitting conclusion to Dharshi's great contribution to music at Sutton Valence.

The second half of the concert started with Mozart's Vespers. Here the choir, directed with his customary energy by Philip Aldred, produced some elegant phrasing and striking dynamic contrasts, despite being a fair way back from the audience.

The orchestra, too, coped well with some difficult passages and the ensemble between them and the choir was, particularly in the 'Dixit Dominus', commendably tight. Other highlights from the choir included the 'Beatus Vir' in which, after an uncertain start, they seemed thoroughly to enjoy themselves, and the great double fugue of the 'Laudate Pueri .

Here the tempo was on the slow side, but the inexorability of the music was forcefully conveyed.

The four soloists, Eileen Field, Patricia Williams, Martin Bruce and Christopher Field, were also in fine form, producing admirably the purity of tone and accuracy of phrasing so essential in Mozart.

Mozart's Ave Verum sung very slowly and from memory, produced probably the best choral -32-

singing of the evening. Breathing, diction and dynamics were all well-controlled and the impact on the audience was amply demonstrated by a rapt silence between the dying of the final chord and the applause.

The evening ended with Poulenc's Gloria, a far from easy piece, especially at the end of a long concert. Despite some wayward brass passages and one or two rather tired choral entries, there was much to admire here. The choir's unaccompanied singing in the 'Laudamus Te' was impressive whilst in the 'Domine Deus' the superb harp-playing of Janice Beven and some lovely singing from Eileen Field brought the evening to a memorable conclusion.

-

ITALY OCTOBER 1992.

A

group of eight Sutton Valence School pupils was invited to take part in an International Festival in Cremona which is a city famous for being the birthtown of Stradivarius. On 20th October we left school for Gatwick Airport all anticipating our visit to Italy with excitement.

We arrived in Milan to be told that we had another one hour journey to look forward to in a minibus - so this was our first experience of THE Italian driving! We eventually arrived in Cremona at about ll p.m. where we were hastily introduced to our hosts and then taken home to our first experience of a normal Italian meal.

The next morning we assembled in the foyer of the exchange school in Cremona which became our meeting place. Mrs. Palmer (an English teacher at one of the Cremona schools and organiser of this event) then decided that we should sing to the Headmaster who, incidentally, earns less than his caretaker! We than made our first of many visits to the cafes of Cremona.

During the following days we experienced a great deal of Italian culture including performing two Masses in beautiful village churches and visiting the Stradivarius museum, where we heard a recital on an authentic Stradivarius violin. This was followed by a visit to Cremona Cathedral which has the highest brick built tower in Europe and we all (except Damian) managed to climb it even though nature was calling(!). Ian, Tim and James did not help! We also visited an organ factory which fascinated Mr. Horley. On another occasion we visited a cheese-making factory of which Fran and I could not endure the stench. Our last and probably most enjoyed visit was to a sweet-making factory where we were given many products to test.

After a few days a group of girls from St. Helen's School joined us, and this is when our rehearsals began seriously (one of these was in fact televised). Mr. Bruce also joined us which made our group complete (Ed.:and rather more noisy than it had been before).

At the end of the week we performed our third concert in which Damian proved himself to be a true European by performing beneath the blue, starspangled flag; Mr.Bruce turned his hand to a hastily-learned Neapolitan street song; and the girls barely controlled themselves in a moving account of The Skye Boat Song, whilst the boys seemed to have some difficulty with the wordsof O Rafferty's Motor Car. It is not the custom in most Italian schools to hold regular music concerts and the large parent audience was clearly highly impressed.

All in all the trip to Italy was a great success and will leave us all with many memories : our thanks go to Mr. Horley (such a stern disciplinarian!), Mr . Bruce (so implaccably whacky) and above all to Mr. and Mrs. Palmer for their organisation of the trip and for the welcome they found for us in the homes of the people of Cremona.

Lucy Burbridge U6

afterwards the church had to be cleared for security reasons with the arrival of Sir Peter Brooke who was going to present the medals.

I couldn't believe it when I was announced as the winner!

During my time of being Choir Girl of the Year.

I have had some very exciting experiences. After appearances on local T.V. and Radio, the first major event was to record Songs of Praise at Chester Cathedral. Then I sang in a Christmas party for disabled children at the House of Commons, where I met the Duchess of York, whom I found very friendly.

Next came the Joy to the World concert. It was really amazing singing a solo in the Royal Albert Hall and meeting the Duchess of Kent. I think my favourite bit in the concert was chatting to Roger Moore: he was really friendly and talkative.

Wembley Arena was lying just ahead and I suddenly felt really excited. We had to go to the Stage Door.

We entered a smallish room where the photos. were to be taken. Mum was poised with my camera.

The door opened and Cliff walked in very casually.

We all shook hands and introduced ourselves. Cliff was really relaxed and nice. He was wearing a T shirt and jeans and said when he walked in how unsuitably dressed he was! (We were wearing our choir robes). He had no wrinkles to be seen.

For the pictures we all held a 'Joy to the World' carol sheet and Cliff held a lantern. He crouched down a little and put his arms over our shoulders saying "This is a bit more cosy!" We had to sing a verse from Silen t Night, so I have actually sung with Cliff Richard!

SOME THOUGHTS FROM THE R.S.C.M. CHOIRGIRL OF THE YEAR. On October 28th 1992 I took part in the RSCM Choir Girl of the Year competition - I had won the regional final in July and was now competing against nine other finalists from all over the U.K. The day before, we had all gone to Saint George's Church for a rehearsal with the accompanist. I had a chance to hear some of the other girls - and they were good!

Alter the boys had finished their competition, the girls warmed up and I was first to sing. I had to shake hands with the adjudicators - who included Sir David Wilcox. I felt very nervous, but excited waiting to sing. Once I started, I actually enjoyed myself!

I was thankful I sang first, because straight -33-

It was all over pretty quickly but the photographers took a few more pictures of Gavin and me for the 'Joy of the World' programme.

Next week Gavin and I are recording for a C. D. - which is a very exciting project! At Easter, one of the Kent choirs is touring Hungary and I may be going as a soloist.

I won't ever forget that day, nor the day I became Choirgirl of the Year

Our most recent venture was hosted last week; a large concert in aid of Children in Need. With the public's support, we managed to raise over ÂŁ800.

Although this involved a great deal of preparation beforehand, (as all our concerts do!) we got much pleasure out of it and, we hope, gave a lot to other people. This is a good example of how the music at Sutton Valence School is very demanding but also extremely rewarding and enjoyable.

Katie Harper and Elizabeth Harrison 5th year pupils

Fiona Wight 3S P.S. C.D. is now available - please contact the Music School.

NOT THE MUSIC SCHOLARS' CONCERT MUSIC REPORT Music at Sutton Valence

T

he main objective of the Music Department at Sutton Valence School is to provide an enjoyable activity and education for as many people as possible.

The typical day begins at 8.20 a.m. prompt with a brief, but disciplined rehearsal of the Chapel Choir. This Choir, consisting of 45 singers, is made up of pupils, with a few members of staff adding valuable support to the lower parts. We are very proud of one of our Choristers - Fiona Wight - who is the 'Choirgirl of the Year'. We were delighted to hear of her success. Over the past two years, the Chapel Choir has been fortunate enough to lead a service at St. Martin-in-the-Fields, London; to take part in a memorial service with the Royal Marines at Deal and to sing in Cologne and Chartres Cathedrals during our recent European Tour.

In addition to the ongoing activities within the school, there is a thriving Choral Society, bringing adults with school connections closer to the school's musical community. They rehearse weekly and as well as giving their own concerts, they regularly join in with ours. We have sung such works as Mozart's Vespers and Requiem; Faure's Requiem and Poulenc's Gloria.

Over the past three years we have hosted over 100 concerts, many for the Sutton Valence Music Society, and of course many by the pupils of the school. Distinguished visitors have included the Pasadena Roof Orchestra, Jane Glover, Carlo Curley and, most recently, Evelyn Glennie.

Sometimes we forget how lucky we are to have such a wide range of facilities at our disposal.

For example, we have recently obtained a computer on which we can write and print out our compositions and such like. In addition, we have a large selection of keyboards. As well as our own teaching staff, we have a great many peripatetic teachers who travel from as far away as London to give private instrumental tuition.

-34-

I

t has always been a tradition at Sutton Valence school that music should involve as large a number of pupils as possible, producing many a keen, confident youngster. Was this concert given to prove that music here isn't simply produced by the scholars? Perhaps; but judging from the standard of music-making on show the non-music scholars didn't have to prove a thing. Attendance was very good, both from 'musical' and 'non-musical' parents and pupils who supported what turned out to be a most enjoyable evening.

A wide range of instruments and groups embracing many styles was used. The decision to employ plenty of different ensembles allowed the maximum number of people (encouraged gently

by Vikki Moon) to participate, without putting too much of a strain on audience posteriors. 'Guest' appearances were made by Mr. Aldred (Director of Music) banging the big bass drum for the second official appearance of the corps of drums: Mr. Bruce (Head of English) playing the clarinet alongside Vikki Moon and Michael Schmidt - we shall be sorry to lose the Bruce musical input at the end of the year; and Mrs. Knowles, the School Librarian, boldly coming to terms with the demands of the concert platform and gamely sticking to the task of performing a German lullaby. She could not have had, I think, a more sympathetic audience although the chances of her playing sending us to sleep were slim Other striking memories include Katerina Fischerova's delightfully poised performance of a Chopin Nocturne, Alex Long having to tell us that he had finished ("That's it!") and the very musical and rhythmic playing of Felicity Lynes and Olivia Piper in a flute duet.

It was most encouraging to see the large number of up-and-coming musicians and talented composers at the school. Congratulations to Vikki Moon who spent freely of her time and energy in her 'A' Level term to prepare, organise and encourage the non-music scholars of the school.

J. Roberts L6

T

he Art Department's year began on a strong note of success: the best 'A' Level results for years and equally improved GCSE results. Within three weeks we held the first of our six exhibitions; Clive McCartney showed the efforts of his first year's residency in the Gulland hall. Other exhibitions held were: Retrospective of Isabelle Posnette's work (November) Wendy Sabine/Sally Musker (November) Veronique Chance (December) Preparatory and Primary Schools' Open Day work (December) Scholars' and Leavers' (March) The last two exhibitions were held in the James' Library (Conference Room)'in the Main School.

A continuous stream of visits took place. In the first week Form I were taken for a workshop at the Museum of Mankind in London on The Mexican Day of the Dead exhibition, after which they completed two brightly-coloured pieces of sculpture.

GCSE and 'A' Level groups also visited the British Museum, Victoria and Albert Museum and National Gallery as part of their History of Art studies.

During the Autumn term break a sixth form group

visited Paris for four days together with the Willdridges and Mr.Crichton.

This year saw three new art scholars (A. Lau L6, H.Browne IV, O.Piper IV) and one exhibitioner (S. Purvis III) take the places of those recently left. The highlight of their year was the Scholars' and Leavers' exhibition held in March. Together with the four 'A' Level candidates in the U6, they staged an enormously successful display of their work, superbly publicised by Alex Lau's screen-printed posters and invitations. All the scholars are given special 'creative tasks' to complete and Alex Lau achieved his with a large wall-painting in the Dining Hall (12 X 12'). Other paintings will follow as the scholars become confident enough for such a task. Also hanging in the Dining Hall is an 'Abstract Expressionist' style of work completed in a few hours during morning chapel in January's Arts' Week by anyone in the school choosing to throw paint on the canvas.

It is with sadness that the department will be saying goodbye not only to Clive McCartney but also the Artist-in-Residence scheme. Clive has been a superb painting teacher and a great example of a hard-working artist. We will all miss him and wish him luck.

M.D.Willdridge

-35-

`The House that Jack Built' "...but she was happy to return home and her mother and father were waiting at the door to welcome her into their arms and they lived happily together in their little white cottage."

"Daddy, was that a true story?"

Her father smiled and leaned gently over to pat her yellow hair and run his fingers across her brow. He kissed her tenderly and whispered softly, "Goodnight, sweetheart," thinking how angelic she looked tucked up in her cosy bed, the lamp light dancing on her cheek; "..oh, and goodnight, Samson." He took the teddy bear from his lap, his eyes warm and dark, and he made it walk across the bed in funny tottering steps. His daughter giggled and he lay the bear next to her being careful to smooth the sheet around the pair of them. He rose from his knees and tiptoed to the door, for, already, the drowsy child's eyes were beginning to close. He paused at the door to glance upon her one last time as she lay dreaming of Pegasus among the clouds and gingerbread houses. He remembered how she had scraped her knee just the other day and how he had lifted her up onto the tall chair and she had watched in the long mirror as he had taken the cotton wool and dabbed the wound with 'magic water'to take away the 'hurt'. Reluctantly, he turned away, leaving the door ajar, for closing it seemed to separate the two of them and also he knew that she liked to sleep with the landing lamp lit.

He descended gradually, thinking all the while in that silence, the stairs warm and smooth. Through the aperture of the small landing window the moon cast her rays, pale arms of light compared to the lamp's yellow glow on the dark wood beneath his feet. The white orb, circled by pinpricks of diamond brilliance, belonged to him that night, framed in the window space, the only living picture that could be seen in the house's gallery. There were also yellowtoned photographs of rugby teams, schools and a university and he stopped to look at the faces trapped behind the glass, knowing that time had reached even them; but he was glad to see them once again. He imagined the conversation that might be exchanged if ever they were to meet again; how they would laugh as they recalled tricks that they had used to play on the masters and how they had filled the opposition's rugby boots with water just before the match. What had become of the team now? How faces change and slide into the past until only memories remain: but one by one the memories fade too. He put away this sadness so that he might, as always, salute his friends and say 'thank you for those days' before departing.

The atmosphere is different when evening draws on and the sun's light recedes. Shadows begin to grow from corners and stretch their darkened fingers, as, beginning to wake, they impart a whole new feeling to that dwelling place we know -36-

in the day. They are the ghostly inhabitants of the house when the rest of the world lies asleep and the machines stop rattling and the workmen stop hammering and perhaps the only sound that can be heard is the branch tapping at the window pane as the wind moves coolly over it.

"Jack! Are you coming down? Come and look here." He followed his wife's voice to the master bedroom where she stood by the dressing table mirror, her right hand gently supporting her stomach. "Here, feel him move!" And she took his hand in her left and rested his palm on the side of her abdomen. Then he crossed to stand behind her so that he might hold her more easily and his words were soft and comforting.

"You're so beautiful. Do you realise... I've told you before... that when we first met I knew straightaway that I loved you, and I still do? Both of you. All of us."

And you love me although I'm round and puffy and this will ruin my legs.. .and when I'm old you'll prefer to look at the girls who serve at the perfume counter..and?...

"I will always love you... Of course, we can always dim the lights, when.. .in twenty or so years' time..." ....She caught a glimpse of a wild, young look in his eye and they both laughed and the baby kicked again. She moved to the pile of neatly pressed laundry that was arranged on the bed and she began to match her husband's socks and fold them into one another so that he would never have to search for them in the morning when dressing, so that he might stay in bed a little while longer. He noticed her handkerchief too, lying triangular by the pillow case with the embroidered initial 'M' facing him: "Mary..." He smiled.

"You called?" his wife looked puzzled.

"No, nothing," he replied and when she turned away again he took the handkerchief and held it up with his hand, her perfume lingering on it still. He tucked into his pocket and patted it in place.

"Oh, Jack, I've only just remembered; I've left the dinner on the stove. Check it for me. I don't want it burning... and, Jack..." but Jack had already descended.

"Mmm, my favourite... Beef stew and dumplings..." He took a cloth and used it to move the pot off the heat. It was the meal that his wife had cooked after the wedding when they had come home from the small service and eaten together for the first time as man and wife. She looked so pretty in that dress, flowers twined in amongst her hair, the silver locket that he had bought for her in London hanging delicately from her neck, his watch shiny and new on its chain in his waistcoat pocket. She'd even had it engraved from him with 'Jack and Mary' and he

reflected that, once, they had sat shyly beside each other, having carved their names into the park bench whilst awaiting their first nervous kiss. He dipped the ladle into the pot and drew out the stew, pouring it into just the one bowl which he placed in the oven to retain the warmth until she returned downstairs to eat.

It felt cold in the sitting room, so, moving across to the log basket he transferred what little wood was left into the fireplace and he made the flames rise and breathe renewed warmth into the house's heart.

He sat in the worn armchair resting his feet on the footstall and he saw pictures within the flames until the oranges and yellows diminished to faintly glowing red then flaky grey. All night in his chair he remained, dreaming of the figures within the fire and the other things that had previously escaped his mind.

His back was stiff in the morning and he struggled to rise from his seat and he looked for his watch but it wasn't in its usual place, hanging from its chain in his pocket and he couldn't remember where he'd put it so he scratched his head and sighed. He smoothed his hair a little because it rested awkwardly having been ruffled during his sleep in the chair, which was now cold in the early morning.

He looked for the wood in the basket but, of course,

it was not there. Then the knock came on the door; it was important but he could not quite recall why.

He shuffled down the hall and glanced into the mirror and although his eyes were sleepy behind his spectacles he could still see his face. His lip and chin were frosted with white hair and his forehead was furrowed with lines. The knock came again, now louder and more impatient so he left the looking glass and with it the memory of the dark-eyed, freshlooking face, a younger man's face that had once stood before it without sorrow.

A fair haired lady stood at the door; "Come on, father," the encouraged, "I'mtakingyouto'Larklands' today. Youll have your own room and meals cooked for you., and no stairs to climb anymore... father? He was a little distant but soon he came to look at the lady, still beautiful with all her years. "Oh, father, you're still wearing your slippers! Is there anything else that you have forgotten?"

No reader, he hadn't, for he had already said his goodbyes to memories of figures that had once dwelt within; so, supported by his daughter on one side, his stick in his other hand, Jack left the little white cottage without needing to turn his head for one final look.

Holly Browne 4A Winner of the James Poole Prize.

Page 39

Geoffrey Anderson

L6

Page 41

Kathryn Hannah

U6

Page 40

Frances Yonge

U6

Page 42

Holly Browne

4th -37-

THE BRAUNSCHWEIG EXCHANGE 92-93. rp he German students arrived in England on Friday 18th October l992. A week before the Autumn halt term break. There were twenty German students in all.

The weekend was spent meeting the English exchange families followed by a bright and early start on Monday morning when we departed for a day trip to Cambridge. Mr. Harcourt served as our guide for the day giving an excellent tour of the town itself and two of the university campuses. The following day the German visitors attended lessons with us. In the evening a dramatised presentation of Chaucer's The Miller's Ta/P was given by Mr. Bruce and his Lower Sixth Formers and Mr.Wilson discoursed on the history of Canterbury.

On the Wednesday there was the trip to that city.

The cathedral and the Canterbury Tales Centre were both visited and, somewhat inevitably, many paid `MacDonald's' a short visit in the afternoon. That evening some of us participated in a friendly volley ball match, Germany u England.

A trip to London was organised the next morning.

We visited both the London Dungeons and the Changing of the Guard. In the afternoon time was allowed to go shopping or personal sight seeing.

The final day of their visit started with our visitors accompanying us to lessons once again. That afternoon they left for Germany. Many a tear was shed by both the German and the English students even though we knew we would meet again soon on our return trip to Braunschweig.

Five months later, on a typically wet and windy English morning, we set off from Sutton Ualence at 6 a.m. on our way to Braunschweig.

After an uneventful crossing to France, a tyre exploded half way through Belgium. However, Kevin, our bus driver, had the situation well under control. We spent a pleasant afternoon in the town of Bruges followed by a restful night in a Belgian hotel, all courtesy of Warren's Coaches!

The next morning we rose bright and early and continued on our way to Braunschweig. We arrived later that day to meet up once more with our German friends, eighteen and a halt hours later than planned!

The weekend was set aside for private arrangements with our German hosts. On Monday it was school as usual. That afternoon we were given a guided tour of Braunschweig by an `English' speaking guide. The next day we travelled to Hildesheim, and after an interesting tour of the old town we took a refreshing dip in the `Wasser-Paradise' swimming pool. That evening we went to a splendid production of Mutter Courage by Berthold Brecht at the Staatstheater.

On Wednesday we were officially welcomed by the Deputy Mayor. Mr. Hendry gave a warm speech in which he only made one `deliberate' grammatical error.

That afternoon we travelled to Goslar and visited a silver mine. Thursday meant an early start for us all, as

-38-

we were travelling to Berlin. The coach journey lasted about three hours. A lengthy guided tour by coach showed us many it not all the places of interest such as 'Checkpoint Charlie' and the Brandenburg gate. We arrived back in Braunschweig late that evening a little tired but all the more knowledgeable of Berlin.

On Friday morning it was lessons once again. In the evening a farewell party was organised at the school.

We left Braunschweig on Saturday morning in brilliant sunshine to return to the cold and miserable weather of England once more. Although this was the first exchange of its kind it went incredibly smoothly. Many thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Hendry for their organisation and effort.

Lawrence Midwood Lawrence Fox Philip Kunath

Le Reve.

Elle a ferme les yeux A vu les couleuis; Orange jaune, rouge, comme si Les feuilles tombaient sur Le plancher de son esprit.

Soudain, it a fait noir, Elle a jete son manteau Sur son corps engourdi.

Les cloches ont carillonue.

Minuit.

Elle ecoutait Les sabots d'un cheval Ont fait echo.

Elle a couru mais est tombee par terre.

Un homrne a crie "Non!" II a mis la main sur la tete de sa victime.

II a regarde son visage, beau, jeune

Un accident fou!

Elle s'est reveillee sur son lit, Toute seule, Le reve a fane.

Elle a ouvert les yeux, Les feuilles tombaient dehors.

Holly Browne 4A.

-39-

-40-

-42-

House Reports Bennett/Holdgate

Cornwallis

his has been a successful first year for the newly formed house of Bennett/Holdgate.

The U13 Rugby and Hockey teams performed creditably with excellent team spirit and enthusiasm against some of the top school sides. At the end of the Autumn term JUAM put on the play The Ancient Mariner in which Matthew Groom, one of the house's leading Thespians, had a major part.

The Bennett/Holdgate house has been split into two teams, North and South, captained by Bijan Shahrad and Tim Jones respectively. They competed in Rugby, Hockey and Cross-Country events, North winning all three!

We have raised money in the Chariot race and on Red Nose Day, the money going to worthy causes.

We would like to thank the Housemaster, Mr.Rothwell; our Tutors, Messrs. Bruce, Clarke and Crichton; and our Matron, Mrs.Rothwell for looking after us this year, and the cleaning and maintenance crew for keeping our house tidy (Ed. A job you should have done for yourselves!). Let us hope that next year will be as good as this!

e have had an active year in Cornwallis having all participated in the J.U.A.M. Ancient Manner play and enjoyed many J.U.A.M. visits including our trips to watch Dragon at the National Theatre and a visit to the Museum of the Moving Image.

Our house charity this year was the Terence Higgins' Trust for A.I.D.S. and, although no fundraising events have taken place yet, there are plans for a 5p stair-run, an assault course, an Aunty Sallie Stall and an Ice-cream stall.

As a house we have had our own doubles' table-tennis tournament (which was won by J. De Trute and K. Simmonds) and entered some stories in the Kent Messenger competition under the title Life Begins at ll. Congratulations to Su-Ming Wild.

I'm sure the girls join me in thanking Mrs. Midwood, Mrs. Burr, Ghillie Studd, Gabrielle Browning and Ros and Sarah (our noble cleaners) for running our house so efficiently this year.

Gemma Hopkin 2A

T

Tim Jordan 2A Head of House

Founder's House ounder's House once again has had a great balance between academic excellence and sporting prowess, with such people as Tom Griffen (outstanding exam. results) and Soti SowemimoCoker and Tim Thomson (spectacular sporting feats - members of the 1st Hockey Team which has had an outstanding session under the coaching of our House Tutor, Mr. Posnette).

As in every year, charities have played a major part in the House's time, collecting money for local groups and for the Salvation Army. One event was our yearly Bingo at which money made from selling Bingo tickets went to a charity of the House's choice. We also managed to take Westminster's prized trophy away from them by winning the charity Pram Race.

Although we have not won any of the House matches our teams still played with courage (especially in the rugby) and sometimes with flair. We hope that in this area next year will go better for us.

F

David Harvey L6

W

Lcnnbe's he extensive renovations that the Larnbe's building endured have certainly brightened up the place. The walls have been given a fresh coat of paint, carpets have been installed and a large games' room built with two table-tennis tables. The dayrooms have got comfy chairs, new lockers and remarkably manage to stay tidy! Mr. Jones has a new office with a nice view and it is very rare that you find him or the House Tutors not in a good mood.

As for the theory that an old-fashioned environment leads to unruly pupils...

J. Horn L6

T

Le Garcon II s'est assis sur une pierre, A regarde le ciel.

Une cigarette etait entre ses doigts. fl n'a pas remue, II ne m'a ni regarde ni parle.

Des peines inconnues a la derive derriere ses le yeux vagues; Des larmes coulaient le long de ses joues.

Je suis partie et me suis eloignee, Parce qu'il n'y avait Tien a faire.

Je ne pouvrais pas lui rendre celle qui it avait aimee.

Olivia Piper 4A

-43-

Sutton

S

utton has had a good year - we entered two teams into the Pram Race - we didn't win, we didn't cheat and we didn't do too badly!

At Christmas we had a good response to a collection of clothes and other items, organised by myself, for the charity "Crisis at Christmas". In March we all also dressed up in casuals and put on plastic red noses in support of "Comic Relief IV".

The House has produced some actresses this year including Catherine Colthurst, who took a leading role in Twelfth Night, Margaret Lake who also took a major role in Family Portrait for the Lloyd's Bank National Theatre Challenge - not to mention the musicians who took part in various concerts during the year.

Sutton has enjoyed a successful year of work and play and hopes for many more such years to come.

Alison Baler L6

Valence

W

ith new seniors Valence quickly settled into a daily routine. Valence girls have this year earned success on the games' field, in drama, music and art. After half-term in the Autumn we were pleased to hear that Fiona Wight had won the Choirgirl of the Year competition. Other music scholars performed very well in the Music Scholars' Concert in March. The Art Scholars and leavers showed us their talent in the Exhibition also held in March.

During the year there have been several theatrical productions, one of which, WcntingforGodot

was performed by an all Valence cast.

Even the less enthusiastic sportswomen took part in interhouse Hockey and Cross-Country with Sutton.

Our contribution this year to the traditional Valence House charity was the most successful ever held.

Lastly I would like to thank all the U6 for their help throughout the year.

Lucy Burbridge Head of House

Westminster

W

estminster House once again has managed to show its full potential. In the House Rugby Competition the Senior Team won for the first time in five years with a score of 10-6. This was the result of a great team spirit and a line-up of First XV players.

The House also won the Rugby 7's Competition. The House continues to function well, putting in extra effort, especially in raising money for charity with the Pram Race running in its third year. The House Drill Competition once again was won by us thanks to excellent assistance from Richard Wooderson.

C,F.G.P. managed to make a point rather clear during the competition which shouldn't be mentioned! The Cross-Country was won by the House Senior Team. The House staff continue to support us in our valiant efforts and we saw the arrival of a new Matron in the Lent term. Greg Hambourg has been made Captain for the First XV Rugby for next season and in the Winter term Alex Lau was awarded an Art Scholarship. Ben Painter as Head of House has led with high standards and a happy atmosphere is constantly perceptible in the House.

T. Field L6

The Sergison Trophy

A

pparently, most parents and staff believe that they can out-shoot the shooting team The annual Parents V Shooting Team competition took place on 2 8th June on an extremely hot day. The competition was conducted by Mr. Brian Miller with his customary efficiency and good humour.

The School team, consisting of Becky Wilkinson, Oliver Hayzelden, Chris Colhurst, James Roberts, James Drury, Joanna Howard and myself, won, of course, but my own particular 'grouping target' was spoilt by one of my father's wayward shots! There were many side bets with school team members seizing an easy opportunity to increase their allowance.

Many thanks to Mrs. Wilkinson and Mr. Harcourt for the delicious food and to all the staff who helped with the barbecue.

A most enjoyable day, with only one small disaster when Mr. Hendry's dog mistook a lady's handbag for a tree!

Kate Fitz-Gerald U6

:1

COMBINED CADET FORCE

C.C.F. Summer Camp 1992 his year annual camp found Sutton Valence C.C.F. visiting the land of Robin Hood. Proteus Training Camp, our roof for the week, was in the heart of Sherwood Forest and the nearby training areas were adjacent to the Robin Hood Visitor centre. Soon after arrival and finding our accommodation the first years were put through their shooting and safety tests which they all passed at the first attempt! This left the evening free for command tasks, or how to spend two hours piling op empty plastic water containers and seeing how far one can roll curled up inside an oil drum whilst avoiding a strategically placed nail on the only usable plank! Tuesday saw our usual early start heading bleary eyed for breakfast at 6.30. The morning was spent under Captain Miller's eye getting sorted out in sections ready for the military exercises which were to follow during the week. The major problem we all found was exactly which tree we were trying to attack in our section. After lunch back in camp it was out onto the training area for exercise Mad Gallop, another section attack exercise where, having put on our camouflage, we took it in turns to launch an attack on a few snipers' positions. I was glad that I was not the one who volunteered to be in the gun group when I saw the circuitous route they had to run! The evening was spent practising on the 30m range and on the assault course ready for the competitions the following day.

T

As no-one was allowed to be in more than one event our 'scoring' team selection was an interesting series of possibilities. The falling plate team could not also be on the march and shoot and consisted of Jo Howard with some of the less fit! They received a bye and did well but unfortunately met the winners in their first shoot. The 'A' team in the march got round in the fastest time of the morning and then produced an excellent shoot to take a considerable lead, however our success was short-lived as the two teams which followed us both bettered our performance. Mention must be made of Charlotte Chapman who thought that you were meant to get completely submerged on the river crossing but still kept her rifle dry. The Assault Course competition was in the evening with the whole camp as spectators and our mixed team put up a good time against a number of all boys' schools.

The Thursday saw the younger cadets learn about signalling, whilst Capt. Miller worked on his shooting team on the range In the afternoon we went to Welbeck College to try to get wet in the lake there. At least we were meant to use the assault boats to beat each other around a slalom course and then build our own raft and paddle to the far bank and back. Officers and instructing N.C.O.s were on hand to ensure things went smoothly but they did not expect to find C/Sgt Hayzelden's teeth arguing with a paddle or Lt. Wilkinson testing the temperature of the water and the depth of the mud! In the -45-

evening just as we had dried out the rain started to pour and we headed off to try out canoeing. The highlight of the trip were trying to walk across six canoes grouped together, and practising Eskimo rolls on the grass.

6.30 a.m. for breakfast never did seem a good idea and we were getting closer to the back of the queue as the week progressed. However we had to be kitted up early for exercise LightningStrike, our all day exercise. In the morning we were taught about patrolling and setting up our harbour area. the training team were good value and it was not long before many of us had gained new nick-names.

After lunch the officers were dispatched as enemy and we sent out recce patrols to find them. After missing them twice and almost walking into our own ambush, we set off to launch our attack the enemy were easily defeated and even the top of Capt. Jones' head was searched for booby traps!

In the evening the senior cadets went out again on a night ambush The waiting time for the enemy got a bit long and competitions were held to see who could clear the largest puddle on the track; however, having cleared the puddle R. Carpenter then slipped backwards and completely immersed himself. The juniors meanwhile had an evening at the leisure pool at Mansfield. Saturday was spent on the ranges in the morning where we could fire the

L.S.W., S.L.R. as well as both the regular and cadet version of the S.A.80. After cleaning the weapons we went to nearby Clumber Park for the Orienteering. Alas our Officers failed to read the map carefully enough and we eventually started 1 hour late after a 40 minute detour. The enthusiasm was also helped by a downpour just as we arrived.

The final day's training was eagerly looked forward to, a day spent climbing on the rocks near Sheffield; however the weather was not good and it turned both wet and cold soon after arrival. We all managed to get most of the way up at least one climb and down an abseil which the training teams put up for us. Just as we set off back for camp the sun came out but after a refreshment stop the four tonner made an awful noise. We eventually worked out that it was a broken fan belt and assistance was sought. When everyone was back at camp we were told that Four ton trucks have two and we could have made it back O.K. The evening was spent cleaning our kit and accommodation ready for departure the following morning. Promotions were also announced and to reward the first-years at camp shields for the top cadets were given to S. West and A.Brannan. Thanks must be given to our Senior N.C.O.'s at camp, 0 Hayzelden and M.Woodgate and to the Officers who gave their holiday to come with us, Lt. Wilkinson and Capts. Jones and Miller.

CCF PATROLS' COMPETITION 1992 his year, not only did we have our youngest and most inexperienced team for many years, but also we were the only school to have a "girl" amongst us. This wasn't a hindrance at all though, because Kate Fitzgerald contributed enormously in all she did. Tim Thomson, the youngest in the team, did not show his age, but for some reason he still got burdened with any "odd jobs" which happened to be going around.

Our first events were the initiative test, the individual obstacle course and the assault course itself. Chris Colthurst's leadership paid off in the incentive test and out of the twenty nine schools and ACF's competing in the competition we came fourth.

In the individual obstacle course, Oliver Hayzelden completed all eight obstacles and in the overall assault course we finished with the seventh fastest time.

The first aid stand went well also, even though our "unfortunate leader" was shot early on. The last events of the day were the day-time orienteering and the night navigation. For some reason we had a better sense of direction at night than during the day and subsequently we finished third in the night navigation. The final day brought us what we had all been looking forward to: the

T

five mile march and shoot. Jon Holroyd and Ben Ward helped those of us who were suffering to keep going on the march and we finished in a time of 1hr 2min, which earned us the fifth quickest time. Our shooting let us down after the march, but we finished the whole competition in a respectable fifth place, beating much larger schools and county ACF's.

We didn't enter the competition expecting to win and we had great difficulty even raising a team, but everyone gave all he/she could during the three days. Thanks go to Mrs. Wilkinson for her tolerance and exquisite cooking and, of course, to Capt. Brian Miller for organising the whole thing and giving us the opportunity to take part.

M.Woodgate U6

CCF ADVENTURE TRAINING LAKE DISTRICT APRIL, 1993.

-

An impression: "You can't getter wetter than wet." Once again we all arrived at the Blencathra centre for another physically testing week.

The first night, after driving 350 miles, we found out that our accommodation for the night was a tent. Some might say that driving 350 miles to put your body through hell for a week is not the most logical option to take during the Easter holidays.

However there are those amongst us who actually enjoy it. We are the harder, stronger and tougher members of Sutton Valence School.

After the first night of "sleeping" in a soggy tent we then proceeded to mountain bike to the top of an enormous mountain led by the intrepid Sgt. Dave, a trainer from 40 Cadet Training Team, while Sgt. Harry took the other group rock climbing to the nearby rock wall. The next day the two groups swopped around so everyone got the chance to do both.

As if we weren't wet enough, we were then taken by Dave and Harry to a lake where we all went canoeing, where a certain group of four young lads decided to play battleships with the other unsuspecting members of the group and then quickly "teefed" away afterwards into the distance.

After three days of rock-climbing, canoeing and mountain-biking the more advanced members started their three day walk, a test of all tests. The rest of us did a one day "practice" walk accompanied by a member of staff who kept a close eye on us.

For the next two days we were let loose on the fells, maps and compasses closely at hand. In some cases this wasn't such a good idea as a few of us found ourselves knee-deep in bogs at the top of a mountain. However we all learned to rely on our compasses rather than our instincts, except for the Gold group which seemed to spend most of its time on top of copper mines, so north never seemed to stay in the same place. We all survived and made it back safely.

Despite some bad weather conditions it was a brilliant week because after all "you can't get wetter than wet." Thank you.

Other impressions: "When wet (a rare event!) the wondrous indoor rock wall at Cockermouth with Sgt. Harry's guiding hand."

"Some people can capsize a canoe in a flat calm. Luckily we didn't have any flat calm!" ...a three day yomp with all kit!!" "...the wonderful evening round a camp fire..." "...ketchup wars to settle domestic disagreements could be recommended to the Yugoslavians,

couldn't they, Tim?" "We're lost again. Do you think that funny plastic thing with the swinging metal bit might have a use?"

"The next day was wet, miserable and thoroughly annoying, with compass reading difficult and map reading impossible. The showers were all the better for the long and tiring trek.'

"Many thanks to Mr. Harcourt and Mrs. Wilkinson for hearty English breakfasts, and most welcoming cuisine in the evenings: Captain Miller for his assistance and sense of humour; Mr. and Mrs. Midwood who lent a hand, Mr. Jones for guiding us with his local knowledge and to Major Parkinson who devoted time and effort to the well-being of every individual and the success of the whole expedition. I hope next year's expedition will be just as enjoyable.'

"All the 'first timers' on the trip enjoyed it immensely and think that they will come back again in future years. One of the aforementioned said that he wished he had plucked up the courage to come before the lower sixth. The teachers became much more relaxed and combatted pranks with pranks and not punishments."

"Sartre once said that Hell was being stuck in a room with one's friends for eternity. Certainly it can be said that if being lost on a cold mountain top constitutes a sufficient situation then a number of the cadets who went on the CCF Adventure Training have been to hell and back this year.

"If walking towards, and perpendicular to, the ground (abseiling) is quite your favourite way of 'taking in the scenery' and if using a small piece of plastic with a metal bit that always points one way to guide you around totally uninhabited ground is one of your more enjoyable pastimes then the Lake District is most definitely the place for you. Other activities included hurtling down a hill on a lump of metal, under weather conditions that only the rain forests experience now and then."

"Perhaps the constant references to Blackadder (chief contributor R. Wooderson) helped to lighten an already weightless atmosphere, which was only slightly tainted by the unearthly, immoral, irrational and generally too-early mornings."

"I think the O.C. is feeling chronologically challenged again. " Who were these hardy heroes?

GOLD GROUP: (Speciality - Geographical embarrassment and running everywhere with their packs on) 011y Hayzelden, Jon Holroyd, Rick Wooderson, Tim Thomson.

SILVER GROUP: (Speciality - Climbing vertical rockfaces with packs and capsizing canoes) James Evans, Eddie Copland, Graham Lloyd-Bennett and Ben Wallis.

BRONZE A: (Speciality - rendezvous in the clouds on -47-

nameless peaks) led by Jessica Mitson with Vicky Phillips, Alison Brannan, Frederik Loos and Adam O'Keeffe.

BRONZE B: (Speciality - avoiding Staff checkpoints on high peaks) led by David Anthony with Greg Clifford, Mark Critchley, Dan Willdridge and James

Ferris.

BRONZE C: (Speciality - a bridge too near) led by Stefan Pinwill, with Alex Mansfield, Andrew Kelly, James Nimmo and Gavin Saunders.

Authorship: Various and Nefarious.

A rare break in the weather

RAF SECTION REPORT

T

he RAF Section has had a busy and exciting time since the last Suttonian. It all began with Summer Camp at RAF Lyneham, the home of the Hercules. This was an excellent camp and all enjoyed a flight or two in a Hercules (one to Jersey), a night exercise, a day-long map reading exercise, shooting, visits to the Empire Test Pilots school at Boscombe Down and Chipmunk flying. Perhaps the highlight was "having a go" at flying the Hercules simulator - a real simulator which you could fly from any airport in the world - it has wobbles, bumps, turbulence and (thanks to Cadet Woods) lightning striking on the starboard wing!

In the summer holidays Ian Collins survived the RAF Leadership course at RAF Hereford and John Holroyd and Steve Walsh went on gliding courses. John Horn and Eddie Copland took a gliding course in the October half term.

In September we welcomed Fg. Off. Janet Limrick who has helped the section over the year.

.;

She had been an army officer and a naval officer at her previous two schools but at last she has got it right. Unfortunately she could only stand one year of our cadets and she leaves to try Haileybury next year.

It has been a busy flying school year and all cadets have flown Chipmunks two or three times.

We have also had visits to the school from a Chinook of No. 7 Squadron which gave us an excellent flight around Leeds Castle, the Channel Tunnel workings and Cranbrook also in a Puma from No. 33 Squadron which came to us on Field Day at St. Martin's Plain in March and gave us all a flight.

We joined the Army section at Mereworth Woods on the first day of the October Field days - that gave us our annual opportunity to show the army section that anything they can do we can do better (and we fly as well!). On the next day we went gliding at West Mailing and everyone had at least

one flight.

During the course of the year we were fortunate to have a most interesting talk from Wg. Cdr. David Walker, who was Equerry to H.M. the Queen at the time and another from Flt. Lt. Colin Coobes, an ex-Harrier pilot.

All 4th form cadets passed their proficiency exams and the 5th formers passed their advanced exams and we were delighted to hear that Steve Walsh has been awarded a flying scholarship.

We hope that the radio controlled aeroplane will be back in operation soon and that most people will be able to get 'hands-on' experience at flying it.

Summer Term Field Day is planned as an outing to RAF Boscombe Down where we hope for a flight in the BAC 111 or some other of the 'strange" planes which they have there.

Ian Collins has led the section effectively and efficiently this year and has been well supported by his NCOs. My thanks go to Fg. Off. Midwood who has run the 1st year cadets (including Junior Flight) very effectively and to Fg. Off. Limrick to whom we give our best wishes for the future which we hope will be in light blue.

G.R.Piper

D OF E CONSERVATION REPORT

T

his activity is now in its second year. A valuable contribution is made to the upkeep of Nature Reserves and our pupils complete the Bronze or Silver service section for their award. Most of the work is done on the North Downs' reserves where grassy areas are protected form encroachment by scrub. We also clear excess reeds at Burham Marsh and trim the hedges at Maiden Meadow.

Iffies ~TiSi1 Silver D of E Service: Conservation.

Once a month a group of five of us from Sutton Valence School would visit and work on a site owned by Kent Nature Conservancy group. The sites are spread over Kent with one in the woods just outside Canterbury, one at Darland bank, which we visited three times, and one on the River Medway beside the paper mill.

The work we did at each place was different but necessary for the area. In Canterbury we helped make a car park and surround it with a strong fence

by digging holes in the ground to put stakes in and by stripping the bark of long lengths of beech to make poles to join the sunken posts together.

At the paper mill we cut down and burnt the vegetation on the banks to thin it out so that the birds which need that type of vanishing habitat had the necessary things; we also picked up all the litter we could find.

At Darland bank we cut down two burnt hawthoms so that the naturally grass-covered chalky heaths could return to their natural state and so that the rare orchids which grow in that type of community could flourish.

We would spend five hours working at these sites on a Sunday once a month from ten in the morning until a time between three and four p.m. when we were picked up. The work was very physical and took place between October and February in icy conditions.

The last part of the service was done on a hot Monday in the early summer when we spent the afternoon revisiting the sites we had worked on in winter to see the effects we had had and to pick up some of the litter we found there.

-49-

SPORT SPORTS' COUNCIL REPORT SPORTING ACHIEVEMENTS SUMMER 1992 SUMMER 1993

-

The following are to be congratulated The 4 x 100 Relay Team (1992) (J. Smith, S. Walsh, M. McLeod, S. Sowemimo-Coker) for beating the School Record at the Independent Schools' Championships in a time of 44.7 secs.

The Athletics Team (1992) for winning the Duke of York's Cup for the sixth successive year.

The 1st XI Cricket (1992) for a magnificent victory against M.C.0 by 8 wickets (William Water 120*) The 1st XI Hockey Team (1993) for an excellent season and for being only the second school to win the Frank Mason Tournament in consecutive seasons within the last thirty years.

The 1st XI Girls' Hockey Team (1992) now coached by J.L.R.P. and G.R.P. for an unbeaten season, winning eight out of eleven matches.

The 1st VII Girls' Netball Team (1993) for a highly successful set of results.

William Waters for (1) for being selected for England Under 18 Hockey v Germany; (2) representing England Under 18 Hockey in the Home Nations Tournament and (3) representing England Under 18 Hockey Team in the European Six Nations Tournament in Holland, and for scoring twice in the opening match against Belgium.

Jonathan Holroyd for wining the Inter Schools' Cross Country League Individual Title and for representing Kent in the English Schools' Cross Country Championships.

- 50 -

SEPTEMBER 1990-MARCH 1993 Membership: R.D.C. (CHAIRMAN), D.P., J.L.R.P., S.M.H., M.F.B., (till Jan. 1992), S.K.S. (from September 1992).

ALL CAPTAINS OF GAMES Secretaries: Rebecca Warner 1990-91 Tony Coker 1991-92 Oliver Haywood' 1992-93 I make no apology for repeating the fact that the Sports' Council provided a vital opportunity for all captains of games to air their views. Much of the time, this opportunity has been taken and some lively debate has ensued, apart from a single occasion in the Summer of 1992 when duties were abruptly abrogated, and the meeting was held with barely quorum present!

A subject that aroused much attention in the early part of the above period was the future of the Superstars tournament. Despite the fact that plans had been laid for its continuation in 1991, with boys and girls having separate competitions, there was a sad reluctance to participate and the event was abandoned. It seems unlikely, with the ever-increasing pressures put on the Summer Term, that it will ever take place again in its original form.

The Sports' Council has traditionally been the forum at which the award of Junior Colours has been discussed. This award, dating back to the early 70s, is aimed at those sports' players who have made an outstanding contribution to games in the fourth year. It comes in the form of a tie. Recipients, in the past two years, have been: 1991: David Harvey, Anna Sabine, Ben Ward, Katie Worrall.

1992: Laura Harris, Elisabeth Harrison, Soti Sowemimo-Coker.

The shape of Athletics' Finals' Day has also been the subject of much debate. There has been some feeling that the whole day has been in danger of being underplayed. A complete day - commencing at 11.0 a.m. - for the smooth running of all the finals seemed essential; girls now participate - against the boys, below the 13 age group, and in their own competition above that age - while Captains of House Teams (particularly at Dayboy level), with the help of JLRP and the Captain of Athletics, had made strenuous efforts to ensure each house was fully represented in each event on Finals Day itself.

Distribution of teams to the authorities concerned, a

good ten days before the 'Event', had assisted in this.

Over the past two years, the Sports' Council has taken on the organisation of all administrative tasks that can in any way be related to games. In particular, the Chairman is now the Budget Holder as far as finances of games goes; thus a close check is kept on the expenditure agreed for each sport.

Complete records of the Sports' Council - barring one set of minutes of the Meeting held in February 1981 (the 45th) - have now been collected and make interesting reading. The Council dates back to Sept. 1969 when it replaced a somewhat outof-date Sports' Committee. The records are in the possession of the Chairman and can be read or

inspected at any time Alter twenty three years in a position that has now virtually become that of i/c Games, and following unexpected redundancy here. I am happy to announce that the Headmaster has appointed Mr. David Pickard as my successor. I wish him every success in the post and thank him, John Posnette and Michel Beaman for the support they have given me over the years. There is little doubt that he will need the same assistance - and even more - at a time when sport in the School will need more guidance and care over its direction than ever before.

R. D. Chance

SUMMER TERM '92 Cricket 1st XI

B

efore term started I went on a pilgrimage to Broadhalfpenny Down, to Hambledon, the birthplace of "cricket as we know it". Cricket has been played here in a very serious way since the early 1700s and, at a place in the middle of nowhere some 15 miles north of Portsmouth, crowds of several thousand souls went to watch teams play each other for high stakes. Lords and Commoners often played for the same team and sometimes it was the village blacksmith who ordered the local squire about the field. (Cricket has some pretensions to being an early developer of democracy in this country.) Despite this, it took until the latter half of this century before the separate gates for amateurs and professionals, and separate changing facilities, were abandoned.

What did you discover in this wondrous place?

First, I learned that devouring a large ploughman's lunch and supping a mug of good ale at the Bat an d Ball, the famous Pub which overlooks the field, put me into a very appreciative mood.

a place that has significance to you and relax in its environment. Do not be surprised if it has a marked effect on the rest of your life.

Were you inspired to generate an eleven of superstars?

Look at the results; Draw v Cranbrook 153 - 3 dec School Barr 67*, Hudd 36, Hodson 23 53 - 6 Cranbrook Painter 3 - 11, Hudd 3 - 24 We mistimed the declaration and over estimated our opponents' ability. Nevertheless this was a promising start since it showed we could score runs and take wickets. v Old Suttonians Old Suttonians School

Lost 134 - 7 dec 22

Thereafter, I found some inspiration in the ample supply of memorabilia, and I discovered "atmosphere". They were painting the flagpole.

They were mowing the square. They were assembling the sightscreens. A lark was up in the heavens somewhere, singing loudly. The tension was tangible. I knew that by closing my eyes I would be able to hear the murmur of a crowd appreciating the event and smell the roast being made ready for the lunch and picture the players hard at work to win the thousand guineas' wager.

We played a very under strength side against an OS eleven that was not prepared to show any mercy.

This was the low point of the season.

Subsequently, what I discovered is secret to me. If you want to discover great things, you go to

v Dover College School

v XL Club XL Club School

Draw 234 - 3 dec 138 - 9 Hudd 36, Barr 23, Waters 22

The ability to take wickets disappeared and the flow of runs dried up. We did well to avoid defeat.

Draw 200 - 3 dec -51-

Dover

Barr 85, Waters 38, Hudd 37 184 - 3

On a superb wicket no team was going to win unless it was prepared to lose. Neither side had the courage to meet the challenge.

Lost v Band of Brothers 236 - 0 dec.

BB's School 174 Waters 61. Hodson 36. Hudd 23 Depleted because of academic commitments we were rather pleased with this result. At 145 - 2 with most of the final 20 overs to come we had put ourselves in a position to win on another superb batting track. In the chase we lost wickets and the long tail was unable to sustain the run rate of earlier batsmen. v St. Dunstan's College Won St. Dunstan's 179 Painter 4 - 20 180 - 4 School Barr 72*. Painter 56. Hudd 29 We had the match nicely sewn up with St. Dunstan's 116-6 but a spirited recovery made our target a lot more difficult. We lost a couple of early wickets before Barr and Painter put on 95 together to take the match into a winnable position and the middle order duly completed the job with one ball to spare.

Alan Barr's knock was masterful, and Ben Painter's all round effort made him man of the match.

Won v The M.C.C. 200 - 7 dec The M.C.C. Bukuku 4 - 11 201 - 2 School Waters 132*, Barr 48 We made the MCC struggle for their runs, but enough came, and quickly enough, for them to declare generously. Our chase was superbly timed, and brilliantly led, by Will Waters whose hundred was very well-crafted and widely appreciated by friend and foe alike. v The Duke of York's Won 96 Duke of York's Bukuku 3 - 12 97 - 2 School Hudd 38, Waters 30 On a high from earlier victories we were not to be denied on this day. Tight bowling and keen fielding prevented the opposition any opportunity to make headway and frustrated them into rash shots and dangerous runs, from which we prospered. After a nervous start against accurate bowling and even keener fielding than our own Hudd and Waters took us to a winning position. Hudd eventually saw us -52-

through with a captain's innings of quality. v King's School, Canterbury Lost School 136 Waters 57 King's School 137 - 3 We started badly, and recovered well, but failed to make enough runs. We bowled very tightly for a long time but we could not take wickets to put King's under pressure and eventually they were comfortable winners.

This was a badly reduced season. We abandoned the matches against St. Lawrence, King's Rochester and Maidstone G.S. because of the weather and the vagaries of the termly dates. We were unable to play the games against Kent College and the Pioneers because of clashes with examinations. In the season as a whole we won three, drew three and lost three.

Several players distinguished themselves. More played enthusiastically and learned a lot, for this was, essentially, a young side short on experience.

I cannot wait for next year. You will read later why this section of the report does not highlight individuals as fulsomely as other sports seem to do.

Nevertheless, the belated (because of injury last year) development of Painter's fast bowling and his willingness to try to out- Waqar the great Pakistani in the art of the fast inswinging yorker was a joy. The expression on Waters' face as he returned to the Pavilion at the end of the M.C.C. match was an image any camera man or artist would have killed to record. The consistency and unflappable manner of Barr spoke volumes about his pedigree. Hepner and Hubble, the old men, cynical, enthusiastic, bloody- minded, fun and always trying hard, supported a Captain. Hudd, who struggled to come to terms with the demands of the job and who was beginning to get it right and who certainly believed in the adage "leading from the front", Bukuku has the potential to be a really first rate bowler. Harvey and Raisbeck showed promise, but there were few other regulars in a side which was affected by injury and the demands of examinations. Hodson showed a lot of promise until he ruined his finger and Abudu has a wonderful pair of hands, and we are likely to have, in him, a super wicketkeeper next year. Fox bowled well until half term when examinations claimed his attention. Robertson, whose headgear improved the morale of the side, will be better for lessons he learned as a bowler this year. Young and Masters, who could have contributed so much, fell to injury and Harper and Lee, who might have added a lot of depth to the team, found other pursuits more to their taste.

It was fine to see several of this side achieve a great deal of success and acquire a lot of confidence for next year. The potential for 1993 is enormous.

It is possible that the potential will not materialise. The lads will not willingly let us down but I feel for them and the pressures they will be under. Old Boys reading this will possibly murmur that their pressures were no less than now, but they are wrong.

U15 XI

Success at cricket has expanded the fixture list - every year I am asked by several schools and other clubs if we can include them on our list. Our boy numbers are fewer than for some time and their free choice for games is greatly expanded. The perception of the need to acquire qualifications is extremely high at the present - a need which the introduction of league tables for examination results and the subsequent shallow judgement of schools on their apparent academic standard will make all the more strong.

Society lauds stars and ignores teams and young boys, brought up on a media diet of highlights, cannot and will not learn to appreciate the slowly unfolding drama of a cricket match. I am reminded of the tale that each scene in EastEnders and other soap operas such as Neighbours is deliberately created to be three minutes long because this is the longest length of time for which the Public can hold its concentration.

Some people have even said to me that they find cricket boring! These people ought to have the courage to put away their mobile phones, assemble a nice picnic, gather round themselves a few friends with whom they can relax, and pay a visit to Upper on a warm Saturday afternoon. We are not Broadhalfpenny Down but we are a wonderful substitute for the Doctor's consulting room or the Psychologist's couch.

David Pickard

2nd XI

F

or one reason or another only one 2nd XI match was played this season. It was against Dover College, away, and we won quite convincingly because we both batted and bowled better than they did. Even so, we did not bat all that well and our total of 121 all out would have looked far less healthy had it not included 35 extras, most of them wides. Nobody got a lot of runs, Gavin Lee being top scorer with 24.

Evans Bukuku and Charlie Masters opened the bowling for us after tea and quickly demonstrated the value of bowling straight and well up to the bat. Dover were all out for 45 in 31 ovens with Bukuku taking 5 for 14 and Masters 3 for 13.

M. F. Beaman

nI:

P4

jjjr I WI

D0

L3

After a poor season in 1991 the side started off with another very disappointing performance against Dover College. As the season progressed however, the boys gradually began to appreciate the importance of solid practice and this paid off with creditable, if losing, performances against strong sides from King's Canterbury and St. Dunstan's and a well-deserved victory against the Duke of York's.

Thomson's hundred against the Duke of York's was clearly the outstanding performance of the season. After an unhappy start to the season he relinquished his responsibilities as captain and kept wicket instead of bowling. After this he seemed to enjoy his cricket much more and runs duly flowed.

Sands took over the captaincy and let the side quietly but intelligently, no mean achievement. He set a fine example of determination to do well; he bats sensibly and is making some useful progress with his leg-spin bowling. Henderson also set an excellent example in practices and his outswing bowling, delivered with a very economical action, gained steadily in accuracy and penetration. Dickens' bowling style lacks accuracy and he is inclined to give his wicket away with a rash stroke but he is gradually learning to take advice and shows considerable potential with both bat and ball. He can hit the ball very sweetly at times and his innings against King's Canterbury showed a good deal of determination as well. Kelly also hits the ball very hard and shows potential as a bowler but he will need to tidy his game up considerably if he is to become a genuine force.

Of the others, Leggat fielded very well. Cavil made good progress and showed considerable potential as a seam bowler but is not, as yet, fully committed to the game and Roberts bowled straight -53-

but without any great penetration. Sankey has quite a good eye but needs to improve his footwork, Benson contributed enthusiastically and Anthony showed some ability but never quite made the most of it. Buckler made some progress with his batting and showed great enthusiasm for the game. Miller and O'Keeffe also appeared in the match against King's Canterbury.

Finally, we are all greatly indebted to Josh Cosgrove, our student assistant from Australia, for his enthusiastic coaching; he must take a great deal of the credit for the side's marked improvement in both skill and attitude and we wish him all the very best for the future.

R.D.Chance

U14 XI Played 6 : Won 2; Lost 3; Drawn 1.

As the press are constantly reminding us, there is little doubt that cricket in schools is in danger of being squeezed out, with the inevitable result that standards will fall and fewer real cricketers will be produced. I make no apology for beginning this review on a pessimistic note since, as coach to this group in 1992, I have experienced the frustration of taking players who lacked many of the basic techniques in both bowling and batting, and of having fewer practices and fewer matches in which to bring about improvement and cricketing knowledge. Poor weather is not the only hazard these days : there are other pressures such as 'field' days for course work projects,and a greater range of exams and other activities which demand the attention of pupils.

Somehow there is a feeling that the Summer term is so crammed full that there is barely time to pause and concentrate on achieving quality in whatever activity one may be involved .

Following two cancellations, the season eventually got under way on the 7th May with a narrow victory over St.Bede's, Edward Wright proving to be the match-winner with a fine all-round performance - 43 runs and 3-15 as one of the opening bowlers. Dover College were also narrowly defeated in another low-scoring affair - Ben Woodcock (35), Wright (4-28) and Simon West (18 and 3-10) being the major contributors. To be honest, standards were not high in either of the games, but the will to learn was there, as well as some potential. We met our match at King's , Canterbury, just prior to half term when the bowling and field placing allowed the opposition to build the formidable total of 172-1 declared! Thanks to a useful 25 from West and a down stand of 17 for the 9th wicket between Spencer Clarke (12) and Leslie Bond (0), King's, whose captaincy and outcricket were poor, had to work hard -54-

for their victory. I particularly mention Bond's nought since he was at the wicket for 35 minutes, learning the virtues of when to play the ball and when to leave it alone; at certain times in a game of cricket, Crease Occupation is what is needed and a game can at least extend the full distance, despite one side being palpably more skilled than the other.

There was a gap of about three and a half weeks before the match versus St.Dunstan's. Here there was an U14 'Procession' (27 all out) and the inevitable defeat before tea! We had an interesting one and half hour's practice before retiring to watch a thrilling finish to the 1st XI game!

A week later, at the Duke of York's against a team of talented individuals there was a vastly improved performance: there was more determination in the batting, though technical weaknesses were still evident; the bowling, with the emergence of Ben Hodgson (2-16), was more accurate and penetrative; the fielding and Ben Woodcock's captaincy were more urgent and business-like. I liked the efforts of Mark Brett, normally the scorer, who chased absolutely everything in the field and showed what enthusiasm could produce. The match was lost but by only four wickets. The season might have ended then but two days before the end of term, the game versus Cranbrook, rained off earlier on, took place on the main square. With the aid of a certain slackness close to the wicket, Cranbrook declared at 188-5, though Ben Hodgson again bowled at medium pace with some promise, and Edward Wright gave of his utmost, despite inconsistency in length and direction. We were never going to top the opposition's total, but in 38 overs, ended the day on 101-6; it was good to see Jonathan Milsted, Ben Hodgson and Tom Horton at last displaying the virtues of playing straight as well as having the patience not to flash wildly outside the off-stump.

The season thus ended on an encouraging note. My thanks for assistance with coaching go to MR. Sinclair and MR.Hendry. I trust the boys themselves work on improving their techniques by playing some holiday cricket and planning some pre-season coaching sessions next Easter holidays.

Notes on Players: Ben Woodcock (Captain): Growing knowledge of the game but must iron out batting weaknesses and practise bowling his leg-breaks.

Ben Hodgson: Very promising pace bowler who can move the ball away from the bat. Useful bat when he concentrates.

Simon West: Disappointing in terms of run total but basically correct. His leg-breaks tended to be lobbed up rather than bowled.

Jonathan Milsted: Promising all rounder. Bats correctly if timidly. Must hit the bad ball. Useful offbreak bowler but must follow through.

Thomas Horton: Correct as a batsman but too timid to be able to make runs. Learnt a lot in his final innings versus Cranbrook - I hope!

Mark Critchley: Disappointing. Refused to make the most of his opportunities as wicket-keeper, a position that can so influence a fielding side's performance. Little energy; little determination.

Spencer Clarke: Some all round ability but must improve his fielding and work harder on his bowling action and run-up.

Edward Wright: Leading wicket-taker (11-169) who bowled with energy and some accuracy. His batting will improve only when he realises he can't hit EVERY ball for four!

Louis Kampanis: Very keen in the field and a promising bowler if he gave his mind to it.

Henry Pook: A lazy, casual player who has some potential as a bowler. Will improve only when he realises that practice is a necessity.

Leslie Bond: Very keen but not a natural. Will surely improve if he stays interested enough.

Mark Brett: An excellent scorer, neat and accurate.

Played two games and did his best to contribute, though, as yet, not a natural player.

Andrew Sibley, Piers Catt, Jean Paul France (non team player). All these could improve if they really concentrated. All aspects of life have to be practised before success can be achieved.

U13X1

T

his was not a vintage season. All the games played were lost, largely because of our inability to take wickets. On occasions we also failed to score runs quickly. Individually a number of players looked promising but none of them combined together to produce good team performances.

F.Debney played very straight but failed to hit the bad ball for runs. R. Byrnes kept wicket tidily and scored well but missed the straight ball too often. T. Janes hit the ball very hard, but couldn't choose which ball to defend! Both T. Jones and J.Cowell showed promise as spin bowlers, and T. Janes bowled some testing faster deliveries but too often bowled too short to trouble the batsmen consistently.

However our main strength, in both batting and bowling departments was the Captain, A. Kelly. He played some delightful drives off the front foot and his bowling was fast, penetrative but frequently unlucky. The side never lost its enthusiasm during the season and we were grateful to A. Wingham, D. Willdridge and A. Mansfield who scored for the team.

N . R. Jones

Results and Scores (H) v St.Bede's 1.

101 (Wright 43 West 25) S.V.S. St. Bede's 91 (Wright 3-15 Pook 3-11) Won by 10 runs (H) v Dover College 2.

121 (Woodcock 35) S.V.S. Dover College 101 (Wright 4-28 West 3-10) Won by 20 runs (A) v King's 3.

172-1 dec.

King's 83 (West 25) S.V.S. Lost by 89 runs (H) v St. Dunstan's 4.

27 S.V.S. 28-1 St. Dunstan's Lost by 9 wickets (A) v Duke of York's 5.

65 (Woodcock 24) S.V.S. 66-6 (Hodgson 2-16, Wright 2-22) R.M.S. Lost by 4 wickets (H) v Cranbrook 6.

Cranbrook 188-5 dec (Hodgson 3-31) 101-6 (Milsted 19) S.V.S. Match Drawn

-55-

Athletics

A

nother successful season for the Athletics Club, although for us, not as good as some in the past. Training continued to be hard, but everybody gave what he/she could. The weather was cold and wet, which made things all the most unpleasant and resulted in the cancellation of our first meeting against King's Canterbury and Eastbourne. A blessing, as we were far from ready for competition. To make matters worse, captain John Smith had not recovered from a long-standing injury and would, in fact, not compete seriously all season.

We showed a lot of inexperience at the Sevenoaks Relays, but luckily our field eventers were able to pull us up the order, particularly with some good throwing by Melvyn Nwajei and John Childs. The normal Sevenoaks meeting saw us competing very successfully in all the age groups, just, for we were seriously lacking at Junior level, having only one full-time athlete in this age group.

The potential for the summer of (1993) looks rather poor, especially at intermediate level, because of this. However, luckily we have three or four good intermediates, especially Graham Lloyd Bennett, Soti Sowemimo-Coker and B.J. Adu Bobi, who all competed this summer at Senior level.

The Tonbridge fixture, in which we had to put two competitors for each event at each age level, severely stretched us, but both inters and seniors again finished high in the order, coming second in each. Particularly outstanding were; Stephen Walsh in the 100 and 200; Miles McLeod, ranging from High Jump through Javelin to Long Jump; and Jon Holroyd in the middle distance trio.

We won the Foundation triangular match in good style, and then headed for an attempt at a sixth successive win in the Duke of York's, which we achieved by a good margin of 20 points. One might think, with the team made up of more than half intermediate and young seniors, that things look good for the future, but unfortunately we lose too many at the end of this summer term and 1993 looms difficult and 1994, impossible.

My thanks and congratulations to those who leave us: your contributions have been more than significant, particularly Sikam Edem, Steve Slattery and Melvyn Nwajei, Ben Ward, Ben Collins and Oliver Whawell, Sebastian Ejimofor and Sobayo Sowemimo-Coker. My particular thanks to John Childs who stepped in to help when John Smith was not available and to John S. himself who continued to support me despite the frustration of not being able to compete.

Team from: J. Smith* (Capt.), J. Childs`, M. Nwajei*, S. Edem', O. Whawell, B. Collins, J. Drury, S. Walsh*, J. Holroyd', R. Cowell, T. Wellard, S. Slattery, M. McLeod*,J. Ryan, C. Bowen-Colthurst, S.O. and S. Sowemimo-Coker, B. Ward, B.K. Adu Bobie, S. Ejimofor, N. French, D. Hayman, A. Bell, G. Lloyd-Bennett, A. Agar, G. Clifford, P. Yea, J. Tse, P. Kutschman.

Full colours either in 1991 or 1992.

- 56 -

Maidstone District team: J. Childs M. Nwajei S. Walsh J. Holroyd S. Sowemimo-Coker S.O. Sowemimo-Coker G. Lloyd-Bennett C. Clarke sentative)

Shot Discus 200 2,000m 100 Hurdles 100 Shot 100 (our first girl repre-

Independent School Championships.

Many reached the finals: Soti S. Coker 100 Hurdles 3rd S. Walsh 100&200 7th and 2nd

Soti Sowemimo Coker competing at the Kent Schools'

J. Holroyd G. Lloyd-Bennett S. Edem J. Childs

2,000 S/L 4th Shot 5th Triple Jump Shot 4th 4x 100 Senior

(new record) B.K. Adu Bobie 400

7th 3rd in 44.8

6th

My thanks to Don Clarke and Mike Jillians for their enormous help and support and the Groundsmen for their great efforts on the track.

J. L.R. Posnette.

Tennis Boys ennis since last summer's early report has continued with much enthusiasm, not just during the summer term of 1992 but also throughout the two winter terms with indoor tennis arrangements being much enjoyed by all taking part.

T

1992

Oliver Haywood Senior Boys' Singles Champion,

Results for the 1992 season were stronger than the previous year with good match experience being gained. The first six played five matches: losing two and winning three, while the under sixteen six played four matches: losing three, and winning one. Teams of four were entered for the L.T.A. Midland Bank competitions at under 19 and under 15 levels and also the Kent Schools' championships at under 16 level. This competition gave rise to some very good tennis with some excellent victories being achieved.

The 1992 teams were:

Tony Coker and Kate James Open Mixed Doubles Champions, St. Margaret's House.

Inter House Champions.

1993 One of the key coaching points for this term is to lift the elbow on the backswing for the forehand and to hit the ball well out in front on the backhand. For both strokes, the swinging of the racket from low to high, along with a good follow through are additional points that have been explained and emphasised.

As we look ahead to the 1993 season we have a number of new ones are involved with our activities. Continued tennis throughout the winter has resulted in the effective development a number of the players.

First Six: Jim Brandon (Captain), Philip Kunath, Matthew Woodgate, Nigel Evans, Tony Coker, Daniel Perry, Under sixteen six: Oliver Haywood, Luke Imberg (Captain), Rory Slater, Gordon Midwood, Lawrence Fox, Menelik Lee.

At the start of the season the new squads are: BOYS' FIRST SIX

The details of results match by match were 1st Six won 6 - 3 St. Edmund's Kings Rochester cancelled due to rain lost 3 - 6 Dover College lost I - 8 Cranbrook won 3 - 6 Kings Canterbury won 8 - 1 Kent College Maidstone Grammar won 5 - 4 Boys' Under Sixteen Six St. Edmunds School King's School, Rochester Dover College Cranbrook School Kings Canterbury Kent College

Jim Brandon and Chris Pope Senior Boys' Doubles Champions,

lost 3 - 6 cancelled (rain) lost 3 - 6 conceded lostl -8 conceded

Matthew Woodgate (Captain) Jorg Feger Oliver Haywood Rory Slater (Vice Captain) Lawrence Fox Gregoire Hambourg Duncan Brannan Jan Foet Michael Schmidt

M W F W M W L M W

BOYS' UNDER SIXTEEN SIX (U16 Captain) Luke Imberg Tom Kelly Gordon Midwood Menelik Lee Jeremy Parkinson Ben Sunnocks

L L L W F F

Full colours were awarded to Jim Brandon and Matthew Woodgate; half colours to Tony Coker, Oliver Haywood and Rory Slater; and under fifteen colours were awarded to Luke Imberg and Julian Kordeck.

With at least eight matches arranged for both the first six and the under sixteen six, the tennis players have much to look forward to as we look ahead to the summer term from this point in time.

These matches will include our regular local fixtures as well as the initial rounds for the L.T.A.-Midland Bank and the Kent Schools knock out competitions.

In the Sutton Valence School Tennis Championships the winners were:

Dr. G.C.Leitch, Master i/c Tennis, -57-

Tennis Girls ast tennis season the girls, under the captaincy of Celia Palmer, had a rather mixed season. We had several players with great potential but somehow we could not produce couples who could combine well enough during matches. The U15 side looked quite promising but there was a lack of depth in the U14 side and it was obvious that if we are to run five girls' tennis teams we need to start a coaching programme as early as possible. All girls in the 1st and 2nd years will learn tennis during their JUAM time in the Summer term.

L

For the 1992-3 season the girls' tennis captain is Majella Imberg and we have a strong 1st VI. There are now a great many tournaments over and above inter-school fixtures and our first tournament, the

Midland Bank Senior Student Team Competition, began in September 1992. In our league we played against St. Edmund's Canterbury winning 5-1, Kent College Canterbury losing 2-1 and Dover Grammar School wining 5-1. We emerged the league winners and our team of Majella Imberg, Tara Hannaway, Priska Hesse and Emma Lloyd go into the next round to meet Sevenoaks.

Our U16 four, Elizabeth Harrison, Laura Harris, Elizabeth Pope and Philippa Worsfold have started the season well with a 5-1 win over Astor of Hever School in the 1st round of the Woolwich Inter-Schools U16 knockout tournament. Let us hope that the rest of the season is equally encouraging.

S.M.Haywood.

MICHAELMAS TERM '93 Rugby 1st XV he 1992 season was never destined to be an easy one for anybody concerned. The great success of the 1991 team cast a long shadow over the few players who remained from that side and put a great deal of pressure on everyone. Two significant injuries very early in the season cost Steve Walsh a whole term's rugby at full-back and side-lined this year's captain, Miles McLeod, for most of the first half of the season.

The customary determination and devotion to the game was again in evidence before term had even started with the now traditional pre-season training session in the final week of the holidays. It is always encouraging to see the lengths to which most players will go in order to fly back to the U.K. from ali over the world to put themselves through the agonies of D.P.'s 'dune run' at Camber Sands.

Early mornings during the week were, as usual, spent either working in the multi-gym or running through the grounds and up and down the Swan steps. The physical fitness of Sutton Valence First XV players is always to be admired.

For once hot, dry weather did not hold up the start of the season and Stoney was, as ever, in the best possible condition for the first, and indeed for every other match. The side enjoyed three victories this season, evenly spread throuhgout the three short months of rugby, against Sir Roger Manwood's, St. Lawrence and Kent College - the only side to beat us last year. One match was drawn and sadly the remainder were lost but none by the greatest of

T

-58-

margins. Throughout the season the entire team played with the dedication and commitment we have come to expect of our senior players and only became dis-spirited when playing away in the middle of the week.

Miles McLeod and Nick Hodgson led with care and enthusiasm ably supported by too many young men to mention individually. Full colours were awarded to Ben Painter and Will Waters.

R.M.S. and I congratulate all those involved with the teams with which we have worked and wish S.K.S. success and pleasure as Master i/c Rugby.

I.S.Hendry For Against

Result

8 14 22 10 10 24 17 0 0 5

15 14 3 15 17 7 19 16 3 39

lost drawn won lost lost won lost lost lost lost

5 5

3 6

Skinners School Dover College Sir Roger Manwood's Hurstpierpoint Duke of York's St.Lawrence College Chatham House G.S. Cranbrook School King's, Rochester Emanuel School Kent College, Canterbury Caterham School

won lost I.S.Hendry

-59-

2nd XV he season opened well with victories against Dover College and Sir Roger Manwood's but after this we failed to win enough possession to release our talented three-quarters and list the remaining fixtures. The side was only out-classed twice, by Emmanuel and King's Rochester, but spent much of its time defending and trying to disrupt opposition possession. We suffered from a continual run of minor injuries which meant that the team often had two or three changes from week to week.

In the forwards D. Hayman tried hard to put some pattern to the game and R. Slater worked hard in the line out. T. Thomson, our converted scrumhalf, was always competitive and T. Stileman looked the most penetrative of the backs. Alan Barr, the captain, organised the side well from Full back and kicked exceptionally well.

The side kept going in all its matches even when under great pressure and kept supporting each other which was most encouraging.

N R ,Jones

T

3rd XV P8 W2 DO L6 F61 A277 Another year when our 3rd team standard, players coming up across U16 squads or bigger 6th Form players, did not help the morale of the team. A disastrous beginning, nevertheless turned around to some fighting defeats with a couple of well-earned victories. Tackling as usual was the main point on which games hinged. Several heavy defeats could have been restricted and some matches won, if the conviction of our players that 'the harder they tackle the less it will hurt me' syndrome could be put in place. The Pack played well throughout the season and by the middle the backs were giving good support. The team was well led by James Benson and in the Pack, Jeremy Field and Tim Field, Tom Kelly and David Anthony did well. Several players were lost to other teams because of injury. The threequarters had a fair season with Kyle Henderson being aggressive as ever and Clive Harris and Scott Baker joining late to assist the attacking flair. Leggat at fullback played well in most matches and was the busiest player on the field. Overall a fair season for what we had.

RESULTS:

Skinners Lost Dover College Hierstpierpoint Duke of York's Lost Cranbrook King's, Rochester Lost Kent College Lost Caterham

0 - 104 Won 35 -0 Lost 0 - 15 Lost 0 - 65 0 - 42 5 - 27 Won 21-0 0 - 24

SQUAD: Leggat, Imberg, Opanubi, Hemingway, Harris, Baker, French, Field T., Benson, Field J., Dickins, Griffin, Yea, Kelly, Anthony, Roberts, Cavil, Foet, Duffell, Lee A..

U15 XV he season started with hope and everyone in good spirits. The few who were not soon changed, and we looked forward to the first match.

Unfortunately because of a run of bad luck and a failure to perform basic skills, mainly in defence, we ran through the season not winning one of our nine matches. Despite this a good morale and consistent team spirit was maintained throughout the season and all played well and to their ability. Having said this tackling was poor and ballhandling left room for improvement.

Despite the played 9 lost 9 track record there were a few matches in which a hard fight was fought but luck refused to run our way. The early match against Hurstpierpoint played at home was a close competition allowing the forwards to provide good first and second phase ball by out-rucking and out-scrumming the opposition. The end result, 19-10, it was thought, did not reflect our performance.

Another good match was that against Dover College in which the forwards scored three tries, a hat-trick coming from captain Ben Hodgson and a fourth added by the scrum hall. We dominated play with a majority of the possession, but fitness was lacking and Dover came back to win 20-36.

The scrum played well throughout the entire season providing good safe ball for the backs to work with, and was rarely outplayed.

Notable performances came from skipper Ben Hodgson and the fullback, Ben Woodcock.

T

The Team: Jon Milsted, Piers Catt, Louis Kampanis, Matt Noakes, Joe Wong, Peter Kutschmann, David Wootton, Ben Hodgson (Captain), Simon West, Mark Critchley, Johnny Tse, Greg Clifford, Alex Agar, Tom Horton, Ben Woodcock, Edward Wright and Nobu Satake.

Colours: Ben Hodgson and Louis Kampcmis

(Played : 11; Won : 2; Lost : 9) (Pts. : For : 39; Against: 263) Despite being introduced, at the start of the season, to some imaginative and innovative methods of training and coaching in sessions inspired by D.P., the boys in this group, as a whole, were reluctant to commit themselves seriously to practices, and thus to the business of improving their skills and gaining maximum enjoyment and fulfilment from the game.

Of course, they are only thirteen years old, still little boys in many ways; some will have joined us

from junior schools where theoretically, - but not often in reality. I'm afraid to say - a high premium should have been placed on teaching the various skills of games in really organised sessions instead of passively allowing pupils to play about in some indisciplined romp or other; others will have been taught the game here as eleven and twelve year olds. This mix of children, some who have been at the bottom of the school for two years, and others who have been at the top of their junior Schools, produces a group that nowadays, with basic disciplines of behaviour ever slackening around us, is probably difficult to mould together.

Rugby Football, by its very nature, is a game in which fitness , organisation and cohesion are crucial elements. As coaches of a game where physical contact is an integral part, we do no favours at all to young players - or their parents - by tolerating silly, half-hearted attitudes or by fulfilling fixture lists just for the sake of them. Teams, out of necessity, should have trained hard and prepared themselves thoroughly for inter-school matches.

Still: to the season proper: In the opening two games, the opposition proved far too strong and fast, but we were far from disgraced or discouraged by our performances.

Indeed, against Sir Roger Manwood's, with the forwards playing with unexpected gusto and James Ferris looking lively at scrum-half, the team deserved their victory, scoring their first points of the season in the shape of two solo tries by Ferris, both of which were well converted by Giles Cook.

Poorish training sessions in the next week led to two home defeats, though, in fairness, the Hurstpierpoint pack played like young men against us. 'Dukies' did have some runners, but they tended to run and handle very predictably and run across the field, while Sutton Valence played with little commitment, negligible teamwork and scarcely any adventure. Against the inexperienced but sizeable Mascall's XV, we felt we had a chance, but still defensive errors, combined with the dreaded oneman rugby approach, saw the School narrowly defeated.

In the match v St. Lawrence College - refereed

by RDC on the away ground! - the team began far too passively: a late rally looked like succeeding, but a failure to look for support from other players, and a certain degree of impetuousness, brought about a second successive narrow defeat. The 'nadir' of the season occurred at Chatham House, where we all wondered - including several parents on the touch line - why the team was playing at all. Players appeared to give up at a very early point in the contest and to wander aimlessly round 'the park' as the game moved to its predictable conclusion.

As a result of this ignominious performance, together with a lack of determination and co-operation in the preceeding week's training, the match against a powerful Cranbrook team was wisely called off. Predictably enough, the loss of this 'local

derby' seemed to inject an encouraging change of attitude in the squad, and the season finished on a note of promise with useful performances that gave hope for next year. A strongish King's Rochester unit was well held for most of the game: indeed the points margin, 0-22 (0-17 at half-time) would have been narrower if, against instructions, the ball had not been kicked straight down the throats of some speedy backs. If we had played the ball along the touchline sides, the opposition would have found it far more difficult to score. The return match v Mascall's proved that boys had begun to take some things to heart : they tackled courageously, supported each other far more closely and finally ran in an excellent try scored by Matthew Sabine. Shaun Purvis, deputizing for the admirable James Walshaw at scrum-half, led a particularly gutsy match against a much larger side who tried relentlessly to take control.

The curtain finally came down with the home match versus Kent College in which, after conceding three tries in the first half, the side fought back with some determination, took control but were ultimately unable to reduce the deficit.

Twenty three players were given opportunities to play for the team, including Matthew Noakes who transferred to the age-group above quite early on. Injuries and illness did interfere with our plans, especially those to Giles Cook and Russell Byrnes who, on their day, put in useful performances. For sheer commitment, none displayed a better example than James Walshaw, while Ian Harrison and Damon Loft ran him fairly close. Matthew Sabine was inconsistent but, as he grew in confidence, the indications of his becoming a hard running centre/ winger were certainly sign-posted. Andrew Kelly proved a little disappointing but has the ability to improve, while his replacement as captain, Spencer Murphy, had one or two heartening games on flanker. However, he must be far more hungry for the ball - flankers have to be human dynamos: there was no-one in the back row who was really prepared (a) to win every loose ball and (b) to tackle anything that moved.

In terms of potential, James Ferris certainly stood out : he has many talents as both runner and ball-player. He must, however, work harder in training, listen to and then follow the coaches' instructions and largely use his speed off the mark for the benefit of the side as a whole.

It was a frustrating season, yet still one that had its moments and that ended on a very positive note. D.P. and I shared hopes and disappointments - I thank him most warmly for his friendship, his valuable assistance and his moments of exuberance so characteristic of the man who, I know, was in much discomfort with nagging back trouble.

For myself, this was my final year in charge of running a team at Sutton Valence. After 32 years coaching here, I naturally have a whole host of varied memories, but am sad that it should have all come to such an abrupt end.

-61-

Those who played at least one game during the season were: N. J. Bunyan, R.J. Byrnes, G. Cook, F.W.D. Debney, J.A. Ferris, J. Goddard, B.F. Harper, I.D. Harrison, D.R. Higgins, H.D. Homewood, B.R. Jones, A.G. Kelly, A.R. Loffstadt, D.C. Loft, R.S. Murray, M.J. Noakes, M. Onu, J.J.H. Parkinson, S. Purvis, J.C. Reynolds, M.D. Sabine, G.M. Saunders, C.J. Thomson, P.D. Varney, G.D. Walker, J.A. Walshaw, D.J. Willdridge.

Colours were awarded to: R.S. Murphy and J.A. Walshaw. •A.G, Kelly began the season as captain but was replaced later on by R.S. Murphy.

RESULTS. SKINNERS' SCHOOL DOVER COLLEGE SIR ROGER MANWOOD'S HURSTPIERPOINT DUKE OF YORK'S RMS MASCALL'S SCHOOL ST. LAWRENCE COLLEGE CHATHAM HOUSE KING'S ROCHESTER MASCALL'S SCHOOL KENT COLLEGE

A A H H H A A A A H H

LOST 0-52 LOST 0-43 WON 14-5 LOST 0-33 LOST 0-27 LOST 12-15 LOST 8-15 LOST 0-22 LOST 0-22 WON 5-0 LOST 0-15

In the forwards, Janes and Boon were very solid as props and gradually learned to make use of their weight and strength in rucks and mauls, as did the lock, Stiff. The other lock, Groom, competed very well in the lineout while on the flank. Posnette gradually learned to channel his verve and aggression and is emerging as a formidable force in the back-row. The other two back-row forwards, Parrett and Johnson, show tremendous potential: Johnson in particular is very quick to the break-down.

Cleghorn showed promise as a hooker, while Power and Colgan also contributed usefully in this position.

Collins and McNaughton were also important members of the squad and performed admirably in the forwards when called upon.

In the backs Walker was irrepressible at scrumhalf, while Schofield kicked quite well and showed cool tactical sense at fly-half. In the centre Shahrad and Jordan showed intelligence in their passing and great determination; as they mature physically and gain in pace they should do very well. Sisley tackled solidly at full back and also showed fine attacking qualities when coming into the line. He will be a key members of next season's team. On the wings Jones showed pace and steadily grew in confidence while Edmundson, Day and Levy all made favourable impressions in their first season of rugby. Pratten also made a valuable contribution as a 'utility' back when called upon.

All players made excellent progress in the game and can be proud of the way in which they played their rugby this season.

R.D. Chance

Girls' Hockey U13 XV

T

his was physically quite a small side and their results were not spectacular but it was one of the most technically accomplished U 13 sides of recent years and at times they played some excellent Rugby in a very good spirit. Above all, they tackled better than many sides in recent years and did not therefore suffer any enormous defeats.

After a respectable result against DCPS (0-10) in the opening game of the season they gained an excellent 30-0 victory against Mascall's, scoring some exciting tries. They lost quite narrowly to Underhill (0-12) in a keenly-contested match and then did well to lose 5-29 to a much larger, faster Chatham House side which scored all its tries but one when playing downhill in the first hail. The scoreline at King's Rochester (0-29) conceals a thoroughly courageous performance in which all the opposition points were scored by one large, fast boy in a match when the Sutton Valence forwards won a great deal of ball against a much larger pack and the backs tackled tirelessly. This was probably the best programme which I have seen by a Sutton Valence U 13 XV and won the admiration of all present, including spectators loyal to the opposition. The season ended with a 7-15 defeat against Kent College.

-62-

1st and 2nd XI 1st XI Played 11 Won 8 Drawn 3 G.F. 33 G.A. 5 2nd XI Played 8 Won 7 Drawn 1 G.F. 22 G.A. 4 Two superb sets of results, which reflected quite accurately the strength of Girls' hockey at senior level. We have come a long way in the last ten years and can rightly be proud of the development. Our circuit is not weak and many of the teams that we play are good. It was disappointing to go out in the preliminary rounds of the Kent U18 (and U16) Cup of goal difference, for we should certainly have been in the final rounds.

Our strength lay, not only in the depth of players that could be called on to play at 1st team level, using some sixteen players through the season, but also in having no weak points in the main 1st XI squad. Two good wings in Laura Harris and Katherine New to attack down either flank; a hardworking midfield in Majella Imberg and Charlotte Chapman, two girls with different stature and skill, but well suited to left and right side respectively, and a very sound, if unadventurous back four that, judging by the graph against tally, kept most attacks at bay. We had a choice of two good goalkeepers, Anna Rhodes and Elizabeth Harrison

with really nothing to chose between them.

Then we could score goals: three times we put six past the opposition and we averaged three per game. This was brought about by the excellent service from the wings, (Katherine also scored six goals) plus the hard and fast running of next year's Captain, Beckie Gear (10 goals) and by the positioning of the other main striker, Clare Wilkinson (8) being in the right place at the right time.

The defence get little praise, for it is the forwards who have the glory: but, letting through only five goals must mean that often teams did not get near our goal. Philippa Worsfold swept with a steady eye and good clearances wide to the wings. Anna Sabine at centre back, could always be relied upon to go into a tackle and come away with the ball.

Jenny Howells and captain, Emma Lloyd, just did as asked, keeping their wings out of the game with tight marking and determined tackling.

It has not been easy for Emma to captain the side but she has been a great help to me and has not been frightened to give her point of view. Thank you Emma.

On the other hand it has been easy for me to run the team, for a feature has been their desire and willingness to listen and to learn and determination to win. I have had different experiences too: the collapsed safety pin at an inopportune moment or the flood of tears of delight at the end of the Eastbourne game.

There has been a lot of movement between the 1st XI and the 2nd XI which, If eel, has been good for both.

The second XI remained unbeaten throughout the term, having both a very sound defence and good attack. Sweeping was Kathryn Hannah, who adopted well to this new role from a more conventional full back. Then the back three, which changed, as did the rest of the team, from match to match. Generally though, we would find Amelia Shaw, Amber Styles, Adella Brooks and Katie Woods back there somewhere, tackling anything that moved and keeping the ball as far as possible away from their goal. In mid-field, Vicki Phillips, who also had a hard day for the 1st XI at the Kent Championships, Liz. Pope and Bianca Armstrong. Another settled player was Sally Stileman, who managed to make the left wing her own. Claudia Latham often captained and scored goals and Tara Hannaway was on the right.

We were unbeaten at senior level for the first time in the history of girls' hockey.

My thanks to co-coacher, Geoff Piper and Mrs W. and to Mick and his men for the pitches.

RESUJLTS: Kent College Pembury

1st XI W 6-0

2nd XI Canc.

Tonbridge Grammar

W 6-1

St. Lawrence

W 1-0

D 1-1

Dover

D 1-1

Canc.

Eastbourne

W 3-1

W 1-0

Invicta G.S.

W 3-0

W 1-0

King's Canterbury

D 0-0

W 3-2

St. Edmund's

W 6-0

Canc.

Sevenoaks

Canc.

W 4-0

Ashford

D 1-1

W 5-0

Kent College Canterbury W 2-1

Canc.

Cranbrook

W 4-1

W 4-0

Laura Harris made it through to the final Kent U18 trials.

J. La R.Posnette.

U15 XI P8 W3 L4 Dl. For the past few years the U15 XI has been highly successful. Those girls have now moved to the top of the school and are still winning as 1st XI level. It fell to the lot of this year's U15 XI to break the run of success. Even at U14 XI they never really settled down to play as a team. Madeleine and Alison who had been in last year's team had to rejoin their year group who were much less experienced and somehow they remained a rather ragged team. It was not however disastrous. Many of the matches were quite close but our problem was simply a weakness in defence. The forward line of Holly, Emily Ward, Alison, Samantha and Madeleine was often impressive but could not score goals. Once the opposing team took possession the side was always vulnerable. Too many careless defensive errors and perhaps a rather too casual attitude explains the final scoreline. Jo Leggat's determination to win makes a fine goalkeeper but she must decide on her level of commitment. Felicity proved energetic and committed but she tried to do too much. Elizabeth was as ever soundly dependable but lacked support and Caroline seemed to lose confidence in herself. She has the ability to do much better. As in the year before we tried out several new players, this year -63-

including Emily Field, Towella, Debbie and Olivia but somehow hard as they tried we could not hit the right combination of players and so the season ended rather disappointingly. I hope to see some of these players realising their potential in the 1st and 2nd XI next year.

TEAM: J. Leggat, O. Piper, T. Mwanyungwi, D. Fox, E. Parrett, C. Dearing, S. Winter, H. Browne, E. Field, M. Gear (Capt.), A. Brannan.

U14 XI P7 W5 L1 Dl. This year we had more players willing to play than places available and it was a joy to have a reserve always available. The U14 XI had a good season and Katie proved to be both an excellent captain and goal scorer. The season began with a splendid 4-0 win over Tonbridge G.G.S. and ended with a 30 win over Kent College, Pembury and many fine goals were scored throughout the season. This team always worked like a team and were excellent in attack. The forward line of Martine, Amy, Katie, Michelle and Belinda worked very well together and persevered.

Caroline moved to CH position and was calm and dependable. Christina and Fiona emerged as splendidly energetic and reliable halves and the defence of Elizabeth, Philippa, Jo and Cathy was very solid. I look forward to seeing this side very successful at U15 level.

P. le Grys, C. Evans, J. Baillie, E. Bailey, TEAM: C. Judd, F. Wight, C. Critchley, M. Davies, K. Slaughter (Capt.), A. Lovegrove, B. Upton, M. Titcombe.

U13 and U12 his year the U 12's and U 13's began Hockey at half-term. This meant that we had to put a team together very quickly. Our first match was against Bodiam Manor, which was a mixed game so we had a team of six boys and five girls to muster. The girls were rather reserved at first, but soon got used to the idea and put all their energies into playing.

Despite some good strong hits from Tom Janes and some skilful if erratic play from Peter Posnette, Bodiam proved to be the stronger side and they won 8-2. It was an enjoyable game and although the winning score seems large, we provided some strong opposition.

T

An U13 team of A. Blest, K. Simmonds, K. Rees, G. Hopkin, N Leggat, S. Leggat, K. Pares, J. Woods. E. Doorey, R. Duffell, L. Keys and L. Simmonds played against Kent College, Canterbury in November. The match was rather like a game of ping-pong with the ball being tapped back and forth in the centre of the

pitch. The opposition tapped it slightly further on average and so scored the only goal of the match.

We lost 1-0.

Hockey continued into the Spring term and a second mixed match against Bodiam Manor was played, whence the balance was redressed and this time S.V.S. won.

The first girls' match of the Spring term was played on a very foggy Wednesday afternoon against Wellesley House. No goal was scored in the first half, but Wellesley scored two goals in the second half against a very determined team. The defence had to work hard and Anna Blest and Katie Simmonds, the two backs, deserve a special mention. Our goalies, Lucy Jones and Lucy Simmonds also did a splendid job in preventing the score being any higher. Jo Woods, our C.F. tried hard to break through Wellesley's defence, helped by Leonie Keys and Sarah Leggat but the opposition proved too strong.

Judo

F

ollowing a lull in the activity for some two terms owing to a decline in numbers, the sport picked up dramatically in the Christmas Term 1992. This was in no small measure the result of the enthusiasm of the two senior players, James Hunt and David Hayman, as well as to the knowledgeable and friendly approach of the coach, Glen Simpson. Boys of all ages joined the Club and the membership soon totalled well over twenty. Some lively sessions took place, often in the presence of girl and boy spectators who looked down from the balcony with a mixture of curiosity, fascination and admiration.

Despite some inexperience among some of the newer and younger members of the club, a fixture was arranged against Frewing College, Northiam.

The junior team struggled, and despite an early win by the tigerish Peter Posnette, they lost 1-7. However, all was rectified by the Senior team who won by the comprehensive margin of 1-6, bringing the whole match to a highly satisfactory conclusion and to the verdict of a Draw (1-1). Wins came from Hunt (Captain), Loos, Painter (guest) Woodgate (a rapidly improving player), Kampanis and Hayman who put on the performance of the evening.

Later on in the Lent term, grading took place with the following outcome: JUNIORS:

Peter Cleghorn 4th Andrew Johnson 5th Chris Boon 5th Stephen Collins 5th 5th Tim Standing Daniel Stephens 5th 5th Billy Jones Spencer Murphy 6th

Ko-Kyu Ko-Kyu Ko-Kyu Ko-Kyu Ko-Kyu Ko-Kyu Ko-Kyu Ko-Kyu

YELLOW 1 YELLOW 2 YELLOW 2 YELLOW 2 YELLOW 2 YELLOW 2 YELLOW 2 YELLOW 3

Damon Loft 7th Ko-Kyu ORANGE 1 Duncan Stiff 7th Ko-Kyu ORANGE 1 Matthew Cleghorn7th Ko-Kyu ORANGE 1 Andrew Kelly 7th Ko-Kyu ORANGE 1 Jamie Edmunson8th Ko-Kyu ORANGE 2 (The latter did especially well to win all his four fights in style.)

SENIORS: Lewis Kompanis

7th

Matthew Woodgate

6th

Frederik Loos

5th

David Hayman

5th

James Hunt

3rd

Kyu Senior-Top Orange Kyu Senior-Bottom Green Kyu Senior-Top Green Kyu Senior-Top Green Kyu Senior- Top Blue

The latter two have added to their experience by taking part in the British Championships held at Cannock in April.

Members of the Club not mentioned above are: James Ferris, Richard Wooderson, Mitchell Onu, Ben Hodgson, The following have left the Club: A. Johnson, G. Walker, P. Kutschmann, S. Warren, J. Tse. R.D. Chance

winning all his singles games in matches. In the limited opportunities he had to display his ability he showed himself to be a worthy recipient of major colours. His doubles partner, Rory Slater, seemed to lack a bit of determination at times and if he is to fulfil his potential next season, he will need to work on that aspect of his game. The other pair making up the 1st IV, James Richardson and Elton Daddow, were both fifth-formers and so have another two years ahead of them. By the time they leave they should be a formidable pair and I have high hopes for them. Both James and Elton entered The Colts' (under 16) competition in the National Schools Championships and I was very pleased with the way they played against some good opposition. James was eventually beaten in the semi-finals of the plate competition by the boy who went on to win the final.

It was an excellent opportunity for them to see what the standard is like in other parts of the country and they must have benefitted from the experience.

Mr. Sinclair, for whom this was his last season at Sutton Valence, has developed a very individual but nonetheless very effective style over the years he has been with us and once again this season he was much in demand as an opponent. His enthusiasm and commitment to the game have been greatly valued by me and by the boys and we shall miss him.

For the record, Founder's easily won the interHouse competition; Oliver Haywood won the open singles and James Richardson won the under 16 singles.

Fives hat a frustrating season this year's was! By the time the half term break arrived we had completed just one match in our home courts - and that was one that was arranged at short notice. We have been lucky in recent years but this year we were reminded just how dependent we are on favourable weather conditions. Yes, even though we play indoors, we don't have the means to alter the temperature of the playing surface and, if, after a spell of relatively cold weather, the air temperature rises, condensation on the floors makes it impossible to play until it has turned colder again or until the walls and floor have warmed up - and that may take several days.

The number of boys playing fives this year was well down and we were particularly short of young players. This made it difficult to arranged as many matches as I should have liked for the juniors and not once did we manage to put out a junior IV all of whose members were in the same age group.

At the top we had enough enthusiasm and ability to be able to put out a 1st and a 2nd IV whenever the courts were playable and we could find opponents for them and between them they won 5 of their 7 matches. Oliver Haywood captained the side well and set a good example by

W

Fencing

I

n the past year the school fencing club has seen a marked increase and sudden decrease in the number of fencers in the School. The quality of fencing has also improved greatly with various levels of success. In the Senior Kent Championships a member of the squad came 15th whilst the team came 5th in the Kent Foils' Team Championships.

James Ryan (Club Secretary)

Badminton

T

his year has had mixed success. The 'B' team played effectively but without much fortune.

The 'A' team (Herbert Ng and Felix Cheung), however, won the majority of their fourteen matches against other schools.

They achieved a high standard of competence in the game and the captain, Herbert Ng, was awarded Half Colours Herbert Ng. U6.

-65-

LENT TERM '93 Boys' Hockey 1st XI Played 21 W16 D2 L3 G.F.70 G.A. 26 (including the Frank Mason tournament, which we won again).

This really should be a continuation of last year's report, for the team contained nine players that had played 1st XI hockey. We could continue where we left off : shuffle the pack a little to make up for the losses and continue normal service.

We looked like being beaten by only one school team in two years. We looked like beating further records and we entered the Kent U18 Cup for the first time in four years, so making our fixture list even more complicated. We were knocked out in the semi-final by Chatham House, after being 4-3 up with ten minutes to go: what a superb addition the Cup would have been, but it wasn't to be.

We started the normal fixture list with Chatham House and flattered ourselves by losing only 1-2.

From then on to half term, we played only on Astro, at all sorts of times and all over the county, sometimes having three games in as many days and then taking ten days off. This erratic programme nearly cost us the game against Maidstone G.S., which we won 1-0, to go through to the semi-final.

Half term saw us having to revert to grass.

Normally, I would say that I had a good grass team that could play on astro. This team proved to be different, being an outstanding team on astro that could not play on grass. We struggled against St. Lawrence; that's not to say that they were a poor side, for they never have one of those, showing their potential against Chatham House in the Kent Cup final, which they so nearly won. But then disaster struck and we lost in a poor game, minus the skipper, to Caterham. They became only the second school to beat us in two years and potentially wrecked the season.

However, I'm delighted to say that we bounced back and became only the second school in the thirty year history of the Frank Mason tournament to retain the trophy (we won it in 1992). We were drawn to meet Chatham House in the semi-finals, but this time nearly hung on to a 2-0 lead only to draw 2-2 and go through 4-2 on penalty strokes. We weren't as confident as they were and had taken time to practise our flicks. James Hunt in goal saved three strokes, one of which allowed us to win 1-0 against Grammarians in the final. A popular win, richly deserved by our superb XI. After that, it was a quick flurry of 23 goals in four games, including four against the O.S., who in their own words, were not quite as strong as last year, and seven against Cranbrook. And that was that. Off to Holland after Easter and the WHOLE team depart to leave superb memories and me to re-build from scratch.

The individuals: James Hunt first played for the team two years ago, but was put on hold. It became obvious that James was ready to take the goalkeeper's place in the Autumn: much more aggression and a better idea of positioning. Certainly he has played well and was the man of the moment in the Frank Mason. Bola Abudu took a step back from central defence to sweeper: low to the ball and wellbalanced, his tackling was always sound; it's just the hitting. After the first game, both Tim Thomson (right) and Lance Robertson (left) became the scourge of the wings, shadowing well, keeping them wide and then building for the counter-attack. Matthew Woodgate had moved from right wing in the 2nd XI to centre back in India and has remained there throughout this season. Matt. has followed in a long and successful line of hard-working players who do the thankless task of following the centre-forward everywhere in an attempt to stop them from scoring.

As said, if he can keep the England centre forward ("great skills Glen") out of the game, then he must be good.

Oliver Raisbeck on the left wing developed tremendously well, after the first week or two of lack of confidence. He gave us that advantage of being able to attack down both flanks and score some goals. At left midfield or left striker, Ben Painter: we had to move him forward after one or two unfortunate incidents in defence and I wish he'd been there all along. He found a Glen-like dribble and sometimes got a shot at goal. The other striker was Stephen Walsh who, luckily, scored two goals against Eastbourne, but was more often than not left frustrated by just missing. Still, with his speed, there was always the chance. The right wing was shared in two halves, by Miles McLeod and Soti SowemimoCoker Both were more-or-less out of control, Miles being the quicker, whereas Soti was a bit better going forward and did score virtually a goal a game.

And then there was Timur Asar, who was brilliant, but still a little lazy. Right midfield and left striker, wherever he was, there was always something going to happen. He brought us back from 1-4 down against Manwood in the Cup. There is no doubt that it was Timur and William Waters (Captain) who gave us most of our success: it is not true (as suggested by one member of the opposition) that we were a two-man team, for everybody played an enormous part in these superb two years.

William has captained the side for two years (has anybody else done this?) Brilliant on the ball, but again it has been his willingness to work himself into the ground that has placed him above all other players on the circuit. He has been invaluable to me and to the team and deserves all our gratitude and admiration.

My thanks to Geoff. Piper, whose 2nd XI have been the butt of all our practices and helped enor-

mously. To the groundsmen for Upper and the caterers for teas and to Duncan Brannan, who has sat patiently as sub. through many a long game and the whole of the Frank Mason tournament.

Team: James Hunt, Bola Abudu, Lance Robertson, Matthew Woodgate, Tim Thomson, Oliver Raisbeck, William Waters (Capt.), Ben Painter, Miles McLeod, Soti Sowemimo-Coker, Timur Asar, Stephen Walsh.

Full Colours: Bola Abudu, Lance Robertson, Oliver Raisbeck, Ben Painter, James Hunt and Matthew Woodgate William was selected for England U18's to play in the Home National and European championships.

St. Margaret's won the Senior House Match, Founder's the Junior House Match and Lambe's the KMS House League.

Results.

Sutton Valence Village Borden Chatham House St. Edmund's Cranbrook Roger Manwood Maidstone Grammar Simon Langton Eastbourne Chatham House St, Lawrence Caterham Skinner's King's Rochester O.S. Frank Mason

W 2-0 W 6-1 (Kent Cup) L 1-2 W 4-1 W 7-1 W 5-4 (Kent Cup) W 1-0 (Kent Cup) W 4-1 W 3-1 L 5-4 (Kent Cup) D 2-2 L 0-1 W 5-1 W 7-2 W 4-1 1st

4-0 Geoffrey Chaucer 6-0 Kent College 0-0 King's Canterbury Semi-final Chatham House 2-2 (4-2 on p.s.)

Grammarian 1-0 Final J. L.R.Posnette.

2nd XI Lost 4 Played:12 Won 8 Goals for: 27 Against: 19

It has been quite a good season with a wealth of talent available! After the initial defeat by Chatham House there were some very fine performances by the team which specialised in open hockey. There

was a lot of close support with a very strong defence.

Graham Lloyd-Bennett showed himself to be a confident goalie and did many good saves and when he was not playing for the 1st XI Duncan Brannan played the superb sweeper with the big hit - occasionally he got fed up at the back and dribbled the length of the pitch, once to set up a goal.

The other 'back 3 were Scott Baker, Tim Lavers and Lawrence Fox who were all very reliable, solid players.

Up front we were also strong and had players who scored goals 27 goals in 14 matches is not a bad record. Rick Hodson generally ran around the 25 line picking up through balls and scoring, Alan Barr trotted around the place not doing too much except scoring. David Harvey and Geoff Anderson each had good seasons on the wings: they were both very fast on the break and quick to centre the ball.

Clive Harris played extremely well throughout the season, starting at back then moving to centre half. He was quick on the interception and delivered the ball fast. When he was tempted he often made good breaks into the circle, scoring twice.

The team, ably captained by Lawrence Fox, enjoyed its season and played some of the best 2nd X1 hockey which I have seen at Sutton Valence.

Colours were awarded to Lawrence Fox, Duncan Brannan, Scott Baker and Clive Harris.

Goal scorers: Alan Barr 8, Rick Hodson 8, David Harvey 4, Clive Harris 2, Shoti S-Coker 2, Geoff Anderson and Miles McLeod I each Team: Lloyd-Bennett, Brannan, Baker, Lavers, Fox, S-Coker, Barr, Harris, Harvey, Hodson, Anderson.

Also: Cowell, Hambourg, Imberg and McLeod.

3rd XI Played 8; Won 4; Lost 1; Drawn 3; Goals for 16; Goals against 9.

This has been a successful season, the team losing only one match and playing with a good deal of skill and commitment. Experience and strength from the older players combined well with the enthusiasm and skill of the under 16s who played.

The term started with an emphatic 5-0 victory over Chatham House, a well-earned 1-0 victory over Cranbrook Under 16s and a 4-1 win against a vigorous and enthusiastic Manwood's 3rd XI. In the last of these the team showed its ability to adapt to conditions as they were thrown out of their stride in the first half, but came back to win comfortably.

The Eastbourne game was the only blot on the season; there was little between the sides in skill or endeavour, but we never really settled and could not get a shot on target to lose 0-3. We followed this disappointment with two good draws, on each occasion coming from behind after the first half. At Caterham we recovered from a two-goal deficit to -67-

draw 2-2 and at St. Lawrence came back to 1-1.

A hard-fought win against Skinners 1-0 was followed by a thrilling game against King's, Rochester Under 16s which ended 2-2.

Gregoire Hambourg kept goal with his usual enthusiasm and had a useful deputy in Chris Leggat who also filled in very capably in defence on a couple of occasions. The rest of the defence was made up of David Hayman, Martin Sands and James Roberts, all of whom worked hard and covered for each other. The midfield was occupied by Michael Fox, a skilful player who scored six goals, Luuk Imberg, when not required by the 2nd XI, Matthew Hemingway, a quiet, methodical player and Lawrence Midwood, whose experience was invaluable.

The side was captained by Kevin Phillips on the right wing, where he received rather too little ball.

On the left wing Kyle Henderson showed a good deal of skill and scored a couple of goals. Neil French and Adam Roberts both worked hard up front and their lack of size was complemented by Nick Hodgson.

An enjoyable season in which some good hockey was played.

Team from:Hambourg G., Leggat C., Sands M., Hayman D., *Roberts J., Midwood L., *Fox M., `Imberg L., *Hemingway M., `Phillips K. (Capt), French N., Roberts A., Henderson K., Hodgson N. Sandom J., Barr A., Cowell R., Also played: Foet J., Feger J. colours

U15 XI P10 W1 D2 L7 The season started badly with a lacklustre performance against Chatham House (L0-3). The defence was disorganised and the midfield and attack were unwilling to put any effort into the match. In the next match, against St. Edmund's (W2-1) we achieved our only victory of the season. We went 2-0 up with good goals-from Woodcock, but let the opposition score an easy goal from a short corner. By the end of the match we were lucky not to have conceded another goal. The Cranbrook (D2-2) match was a game of two halves. We outplayed Cranbrook in the first half and should have been at least 4-0 up, rather than just 2-0. In the second half they came back and were unlucky not to win. We had another tight game against Roger Manwood's (dl-1) in which chances went begging again. We then played Eastbourne (L0-5) and Simon Langton (L0-7) on Astro turf, a surface we were not practised on. The match versus St. Lawrence (L0-2) should have been a draw - 68 -

but, again, we were unable to convert good chances to goals. The rest of the season continued in similar manner, in which pressure and chances remained untaken. (Caterham L0-6, Skinner's L1-2, King's Rochester L0-2).

Simon West (Kent U15 and Capt.) had some exceptional games as his vision and stickwork improved. Ben Woodcock looked a very promising player, but to be an effective forward he must start taking his chances. Mark Critchley developed into a good left wing and worked well with Woodcock.

Tom Horton was the most improved player of the season and if he learns to release the ball earlier he will become a good right wing.

TEAM: Hodgson, Kampanis, Simmonds, Milsted, Wootton, West (Capt.), Catt, Critchley, Woodcock, Clark, Horton.

Also played: Sibley, Tse. Colours: West, Critchley, Woodcock, Horton.

S.K.Schofield.

U14 XI This team did not gain spectacular results but it did enjoy its hockey and grew considerably in skill and organisation as the season progressed. The players learned a great deal on their very successful tour to Germany and, with a little more 'punch' they should do well in the future.

There were victories in Germany and against Sir Roger Manwood's and draws against Cranbrook, St. Lawrence and Celle (on tour). The early games against Chatham House and St. Edmund's were lost, as were games against strong sides from Eastbourne and King's Rochester. In defeats against Skinner's, Caterham and Simon Langton s the side defended stoutly and played attractively in midfield but failed to gain a result because they lacked a powerful goalscorer and tended to lose concentration at key periods in the game, especially just after half-time.

Amongst individual players. Sunnucks, the captain, grew steadily in skill and authority in midfield and Posnette was a determined and very effective sweeper. In goal Sabine stopped shots very effectively but needs to dominate the circle more - he should have learned a good deal in this respect from the goalkeepers whom he saw in Germany. Thomson showed skill in midfield and gained considerably in confidence, especially on tour; he could still, however, make greater use of his pace and powerful shot. On the wings. Parkinson and Cowell showed considerable skill and enthusiasm. As they grow in strength and pace they should do very well. In defence Kentish-Barnes made pleasing progress, sticking very well to his task. while Debney, Harrison

(especially in Germany) and Keys all made excellent contributions. Reynolds also showed enthusiasm asaforwcad while iny, WilldridgeandLoitallmade valuable contributions when called upon to do so.

This was an enjoyable season; the team deserves great credit for its good conduct both on and off the field (especially in Germany where, where they made many friends). I should also like to thank PH and Mr. Pratten for their invaluable help in coaching the team.

C.W.W.Wilson

U13 XI We have had a very successful season with more fixtures than ever before.

A Team: B. Team:

Won 3 Drawn 3 Lost 3 Drawn 1 Lost 2

Mixed Team: Won 1 Lost 1 There have been so many good Team and Individual performances that is difficult to pick out a few

examples. Both Aand B teams drew against Underhill recently. Tom Sisley has scored ten goals. Richard Piper has been outstanding in goal.

The A Team improved as the season progressed and is undefeated for three games.

At the time of going to press we have two more fixtures and a tournament still to look forward to.

M.P.Dunn

SENIOR HOCKEY HOUSE MATCH TROPHY The school was delighted to receive a beautiful trophy from Mrs. Nora MacIlwaine, to be awarded to the winners of the Senior Inter-House hockey matches. The Trophy was very kindly presented to the school to commemorate the life of Patrick MacIlwaine, who founded hockey at Sutton Valence in 1955 and ran it for several years.

I'm afraid that this is rather belated thanks, which, nonetheless, will, I hope, reflect our appreciation of the generosity and thought behind the presentation.

St. Margaret's won it in 1993.

J. LaR. Posnette

HOCKEY TOURS Sutton Valence School Hockey Tour to India April 1992

I

t took us two and a half hours to get through the passport check. In stifling heat, we had stood below the fans which, if compared to the average fly, gave little air movement, while the officials chatted, checked and stamped the never-ending bits of paper. The baggage conveyor and the porters had long since ceased to move by the time we made our weary, soggy way out to the bus which was to take us, but not our luggage, to the hotel.

With the inevitable horn-blowing, we careered our way to the capital of Goa, Panajim, where we were told to disembark and board a ferry. The bus was left behind and we stood in dazed amazement on the red-hot open deck of the ancient ferry, surrounded by mopeds, motor-rickshaws and people. Twenty minutes later, now sweating even more profusely, we were herded onto another bus for the next leg of the journey to our Ronil Beach hotel.

Sometime later, for we neither knew or cared what time it was, we were collapsed in our rooms, but with no baggage and an awful feeling in our stomachs, to which we were to become all too accustomed:

Delhi Belly already! Or was it hunger, jet lag or heat exhaustion?

We had arrived in the state of Goa which was to be our base for the next week. I had made contact with the Goan Sports Authority a year before, but letters had dried-up some months earlier and, as it turned out, none of us knew what was happening: But for the meantime, don't drink the water, take drinks with ice, eat salads, forget your malaria tablets, get sunburned, mistake chicken Tandoori for vindaloo, or go out in groups of less than four.

We recovered from the trip and went down with gastric problems and the phone line between our hotel and the capital went the same way.

Frustrated we went in search of the Sports Authority and were eventually ushered into the right office, greeted with amazement, surprise and courtesy and shown a file an inch thick, with letters sent and a couple received. They had hoped we were coming, but had given up: I know the feeling. However, a press-release would be sent out, informing all the players who had been selected from the previous

trials in February, that a match would be held on the Sunday, against the side from the U. K. People do not have telephones, but they all read the newspapers.

My wife and I were then taken to the pitch by official jeep: no queuing for the ferry in a government vehicle. Under the Banyan tree we took cold drinks with government officials and state coaches and talked of rolling substitution and the Olympics to come, of the price of astro turf and the position of Indian women in their society. We arranged a practice for the Saturday and a warm-up match against the local town hockey team and returned to the safe haven of our hotel.

We found Goa, a beautiful area of paddy fields, salt pans, extensive beaches fringed with palm trees, a warm-hearted friendly people and a major market which abused all the senses, all at the same time.

Saturday's practice came and we lost the game against the side from Mapusa, 0-3. The pitch was dry, dirty, stony mud. On the Sunday, we were collected by the Sports Authority bus at 4.30. It was hot. Two hundred chairs and a huge sunshade were placed by the pitch and the official guests and others were assembled. Speeches were made, flowers presented and I was asked to umpire in a specially presented red shirt. We fought, and we battled and we played as a team against a skilful but individual, combined Goan schools' side and we won 2-1. We were exhausted and over-hot, but delighted. We had tea, more official speeches and presentations from the deputy Speaker of the Goan Parliament, and others, changed and were driven to an official dinner near the capital. We were dined magnificently, a pleasant end to the two days of tremendous generosity and kindness which we received from the Goan authorities and people.

They had, in fact, expected to pay for all our accommodation as well but were as delighted as we were that the first foreign team ever had been their guests, even for such a short time.

Early next morning we set off for the second stage of the tour based around the 2nd Lala Raghubir Sing Schools Hockey Tournament in New Delhi. The departure was no less difficult than our arrival, but eventually they found a plane and we completed the flight to Delhi without mishap. We did have two days to acclimatise and planned to go in search of a tiger, but we had a press conference to attend and the team thought that a couple of practices and some rest after travelling, were a better idea. A Hindu wedding, a tour of New Delhi and the days passed.

The Shivagi stadium was the base for the tournament and it was to here that the team went in their official transport, five motor-rickshaws, which we affectionately named the "wasps", after their distinctive colour. The opening ceremony was programmed for 4.30, but the practice went on past this time and the boys had to stand around in the heat for more than an hour while the organisers got everyone in the right place at the right time. The oath -70-

of fair play was taken, the tournament was officially declared open, photographs taken and almost before our goalkeeper had his pads on, the opening game was started. Because of the length of the ceremony, the heat had subsided somewhat, we were feeling fit and within two minutes had scored the first of nine goals. It was not that cool and we quickly learned that frequent dashes to the side of the pitch were necessary to prevent dehydration.

However, it was the start that we wanted and we were delighted to have beaten our hosts, the Modern School, Visant Vihar by 9-1.

Our next game was also scheduled for late afternoon, against Mota Singh School, but by now three boys were suffering from gastric problems and, despite earning some 15 short corners, we struggled to draw 2-2. The third game was to be vital: we had to win so that we could go into our three days break, before the quarter-finals, with a relaxed feeling that we were safe. The boys knew this, but we were also playing in uncharted waters, at 10.30 in the morning. Although seeded to reach the semi-finals, we were far from confident, and upset stomachs were rampant. Our squad was too small for anybody to be given time off, so struggleon we had to: The start soon became 11.00 and the heat increased. Struggle we did, going 0-1 down with 15 minutes to go to the end. Again we had missed too many short corners, and the Doon School had put us under greater pressure as the hear increased. Thankfully we were awarded a stroke three minutes from the end, which we scored and the game ended 1-1. So now we had to wait to see what all the others did in our group, to see whether we made it to the quarter finals.

At six o'clock the next morning, we set off in a bus for Jaipur, the beautiful pink city of Rajistan. The next state to Delhi, Haryana, saw us passing through a dry, flat countryside, which was to stay with us for the next two days. Far more interesting were our fellow travellers on the road south. The first camel appeared not long out of Delhi and these became more and more common. There were the lorries, too, over-loaded, swaying and brightly coloured: the buses, looking like tick-infested crabs as, covered in people, they roared diagonally along the road towards us. We were to discover that this minor excitement turned into a nightmare after dark, but first we had to see Jaipur: The lake palace, without any water, the beautiful Palace of the Winds in the still heat of mid-day, the City Palace, the exotic Bazaar where the monkeys sat in the trees and stole from irate passers-by and lunch without electricity, so no air-conditioning and sun-dried toasted cheese sandwiches. The high-point? Stewart trying to mount an elephant by climbing up its trunk or was it the good luck message from a monkey on Lance's head, or the shop-keeper who tried to pull my moustache off? Quite a city, but we had a date with a tiger in the Ranthambore National Park, some three hours south.

After dark. the traffic turned into a murderous

chaos of racing shadows. The buses and lorries had a mixture of lights, ranging from none to three headlights, which would be stuck on full beam or assorted small, red, green and orange ones. Perhaps worse were the others: the unlit pedestrians, mopeds, camels, tractors, bicycles and buffalo.

Now about ten o'clock, and three hours after our departure, we were informed by our driver, who knew not where we were, that we had another 100 kms. to go: we had done ninety so far. What would we like to do? What could we do? There were no places that we would call an hotel. We certainly could not sleep on the bus. We had to goon. An hour later, we arrived at our hotel, an ex-prison and Maharaja's hunting lodge, were given supper and a long-awaited cold beer and retired for a few hours' sleep.

To look for tigers, we were told, it is necessary to be up at six in the morning and in the game park by 6.30. After a quick coffee, we were in the park on time. Suffice it to say that most of us saw lots of dust, some beautiful birds, numerous deer and monkeys, but no tigers. Four lucky ones, amongst whom I count myself, were honoured to spend five minutes with a beautiful Rajistan tigress in the dusty wilderness. Quite an experience.

Breakfast and we re-traced our steps through the vast flatlands of Rajistan, a ten hour, non-stop drive to Delhi. Quite a couple a days. The other teams had done their bit and we had a day's rest before our quarter finals game against G.H.P.S. on the Thursday.

A quick tour of Old Delhi, a few more souvenirs, lazing by the pool and then the knockout stage arrived. The team was again free from problems and we won 4-1, to make it through to the next

round, an engineered clash between ourselves and last time's winners, Union Academy.

As the Indian Express said, we were not used to playing in the blistering heat on the noon-day sun, we were not all fit either, but we were also well beaten by a very good team, 1-7. We would have to see the final from the spectators' enclosure. Actually. I had not expected to get this far and it was quite a pleasant relief not to have another game's pressure on us and we could relax. The final was quite a spectacle for there turned out to be a great deal of rivalry between the team from Haryana State and the one from Delhi. This led not only to crowd violence, but also to some unpleasant behaviour by the players. More official speeches, we were awarded the fair-play trophy, our main goal-scorer, Timur Asar, the best forward trophy and the tournament ended.

This left us with a final team dinner, the day's trip to see the fabulous Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, to pack and make our 03.00 departure from the hotel.

This extraordinary country had not yet finished with us: we still had to pay £1,200 in excess baggage, but that's another story.

Our thanks to Mr. Robertson and his company Wash-Vac Services of Sittingbourne for their generous sponsorship of our Kit and Stick bags..

The Group: Stewart Young, Ian Sutton, Charlie Masters, Lance Robertson, Matthew Woodgate, Ben Painter, Chris Pope, William Waters,John Smith, Oliver Raisbeck, Miles McLeod, Timur Asar, Ellen Posnette, J. Posnette J. LaR. Posnette

ay

x

•, fix»~

Rajistan Tigress

a

The Hockey Tour to The Hague

T

his year we sent a Boys' and a Girls' team to the 50th International Hockey Festival organised

by VCL a school in The Hague. We are now quite regular attenders at this tournament.. and we keep getting invited back!

We travelled by Olau Line luxury but a couple of players (no names!) still managed to be seasick despite the comfort. So the happy band (and the rest) rode on by train to The Hague. We were met by the friendly organising committee who took us to the Youth Hostel - (just the thought of the place makes you break into a sweat if you have stayed there before and tried to sleep!)

So, not much sleep the first night thanks mainly to a group of very noisy Italian students who couldn't have gone to bed much before 2.00am!

Nevertheless after an interesting YH breakfast we were fit for anything - 4 matches for each team on the first day. The boys played well for 3 of the matches but had one poorish performance. The girls' results, however, were much more consistent(!)

Well, to be fair, the girls were reasonably understrength and hadn't played hockey since December.

This is always a problem for the girls in an Easter time tournament when they are drawn against Dutch sides whose members have been playing club hockey for the whole season.

Once the hockey was over, we could get on with the important business of Supper and Disco at a club which was specially hired for all the hockey players in the tournament (12 boys' and 10 girls' teams). That was a very good evening with very little sleep thanks to the late finish and a group of Japanese who had replaced the Italians.

Day 2 saw a bit more drama. It was on this day that the Men Coaches learned how to get the best from the team by listening to the Lady Coach... "Please mark someone Lizzie Darling"... so after cries of "Mark someone Bola Darling.. please" the boys' defence tightened up. Unfortunately Bola marked someone just a bit too closely once and headed his stick... it was one way too see a foreign hospital! That left only 10 men.. .but ...enter Jacek Generowicz (O.S.) who was watching the tournament... He was a bit rusty but contributed well.

As a result of all the good play, lots of goals from Timur and Ben and lots of brilliant saves (including penalties) from James who got officially promoted from hero to superhero, the boys emerged with the 3rd place cup. Actually they could have emerged with 1st place cup but the winners were holding onto it too tightly! The other English boys' team (Downside) came 5th.

The girls got themselves into a dramatic fight out with the other English school (Christ's Hospital) for the 9th/ 10th place play off and WON! A great goal from Georgie Pares was the clincher.

The last day was spent at a large amusement park - it was generally agreed that it was good fun, -72-

though the timings for the day were not too well planned by the organisers and a trip to Amsterdam would have been preferred.

Overall it was a very enjoyable trip. The emphasis of this tournament is on friendship and it is always a happy occasion. To make it happier, as a result of performances for the term followed by splendid performances in Holland, School Colours were awarded to James Hunt, Matthew Woodgate, and Emma Lloyd.

I feel that the organisers were pleased with Sutton Valence's performance on and off the field and that the members of the touring party did well for the school. Special thanks from me to Anne Wilkinson for all her excellent work and encouragement on the tour.

G.R.Piper

U14 Hockey Tour to Germany - 1993

T

he 'original' plan for the coach journey was to leave the school quad at six-thirty (in the morning, of course,) and arrive in Braunschweig at tenthirty that evening. This, as you probably know, went terribly wrong. Somewhere near Bruges, in Belgium, we had a very serious puncture, causing one of the hydraulic suspension tubes to be severed.

The excellent negotiation skills of Mr. Hendry and Mr. Wilson meant that we had a bed, or a double one, for the night after the coach had been fixed.

We arrived at about three o'clock the next afternoon, after starting out early in the morning, and were almost immediately faced with a match against Eintracht Braunschweig. We lost this with a score of six-one, but we were all tired from the journey. After the game we all went back to 'die Hockey Hutte' to meet our hosts.

After a good night's sleep we spent Sunday playing matches against Hannover 48 and Wolfsburg, in which we lost to that formerr but won against that latter. On Monday 'most' of the group went to school with their hosts having got up at about six and catching the tram, but were compensated by finishing school at about midday. In the afternoon we had the usual guided tour of Braunschweig. The next day we went to school again and in the afternoon we had a trip to a very beautiful town called Celle. After the guided tour we played Celle and drew one all.

We went to 'Schule' yet another time on Wednesday and moved into the youth hostel around midday. We then went on a short trip to the Harz Mountains and also to the town of Goslar and the Rarnmelsburg mines, where we had a very good tour of the actual mine and of how it worked The next day took us on a trip to Berlin, where we had a three- to four-hour long tour around Berlin with a guide who was totally fascinated with the lamp posts! We were then set loose to do some souvenir-shopping, followed by the three hour long trip back to Braunschweig. Friday morning let us out

to do some shopping in the town. We had another 'friendly' hot and sweaty match against Eintracht Braunschweig only to be relieved by going swimming afterwards. The coach took us back to the 'Hockey Hutte' afterwards to have a very enjoyable meal and quite an interesting speech and presentation from Mr. Posnette. Man of the Tour was presented to our captain Ben Sunnucks and the woman, or should I say young lady, to Michelle Titcombe.

Finally, on behalf of both teams, I would like to thank Mr. Wilson and Mrs. Jackson for surviving us, helped by the odd Germanic beverage I dare say.. .and also to Mark Wood for coming and supporting us against the quite excellent German opposition. I think I speak for both teams when I say that we had a truly enjoyable time.

Matthew Sabine U14 Goalkeeper

Netball The rising levels of performance and interest in this game are encouraging and the school now fields six teams which play competitive netball.

TEAM: J. Howells (Capt), T. Hannaway, B. Armstrong, C. Wilkinson, P, Worsfold, E. Harrison, R. Gear.

1st VII

RESULTS: (1st VII) Dover College Cranbrook King's Canterbury Kent College Canterbury Benenden Ashford St. Edmund's Tonbridge Grammar Kent College Pembury St. Lawrence

P10 W8 L2 DO The season began under the captaincy of Jenny Howells, and despite losing four of last season's players we fielded a talented squad. The first match was against Dover College where we were treated to an excellent display of netball by the lsts, even though the opposition were rather physical.

Our next match however was against Cranbrook, whom we knew had a very strong unchanged team from the previous season. It was a very fast and furious game, which ended with a pleasing result for such a young team. Tara Hannaway, as always, gave an excellent, consistent performance.

The team went on to play a very close fought match against King's College, Canterbury with our defences, Philippa Worsfold and Elizabeth Harrison, playing fluently and calmly when pressured. We won by two goals.

Kent College Canterbury have a very experienced and talented team with two county players in its midst and so the results were expected. Emma Lloyd played in this match as Jenny Howells was not available and Emma initiated some exciting moves. The team went on to win the next five matches with Bianca Armstrong showing a tactical intelligence in all games.

In the last match of the season a determined and accurate seven (thanks to our shooters Clare Wilkinson and Rebecca Gear) crushed a St. Lawrence side with a convincing win of 20-13.

Next year it is hoped that we shall have some county team members in our midst and with only one change to the current squad great things might happen.

Full Colours: T. Hannaway, J. Howells.

Half Colours: B. Armstrong, P. Worsfold, E. Harrison, R. Gear.

W L W L W W W W W W

23 332438241736- -1 22- 9 25-12 20-13

U15 VII The U 15 has had a good season, winning six matches, losing four and drawing one. Madeleine Gear proved to be an excellent captain and talented goal defence. Her partner in the defence circle, Sam Winter, never gave up and improved during season. Emily Ward turned into an energetic but also sneaky centre, working well with the other centre court players to break away from the opposition. Holly Browne, as wing defence, worked hard to intercept the ball at crucial moments and send it back to Towella who had mysteriously got free of even the best of her opponents without every appearing to try. The goal scoring duo of Alison Brannan (Goal attack) shooting from the edge of the circle and Jane Ludford (Goal Shooter) shooting from under the goal was usually impressive. Jo Leggat acted as a generous supporter/reserve player (Notably as a hard- working goal keeper.), Colours: M. Gear Team: M. Gear, A. Brannan, T. Mwanyungwi, J. Ludford, E. Ward, S. Winter, H. Browne, J. Leggat.

A.M.Bowker.

-73-

U14 VII P9W3L5D1 This is a side with great potential and it should have had a successful season. The 23-3 win over Dover College was encouraging but somehow in the next matches the seven players never really managed to combine well as a team. To be fair there were problems: the captain, Michelle Titcombe, an energetically skilful player and an excellent shooter, was injured early on and missed most of the season.

Netball is essentially a team game and set passes and team tactics all had to be changed as Katie Slaughter took over both the captaincy and the new position of Goal Attack and the reserve moved into Wing Attack. The Goal Attack was also changed three times. Hannah Taylor and Martine Davies both shoot accurately in practice but are less reliable in matches so in the end the U 13 shooter, Katie Simmonds, was brought in.

Only in the final match, a 17-9 win over St. Lawrence, did the team seem to show their earlier promise. Caroline Critchley is now a much more aggressive player and she works wells with Elizabeth Bailey who has learned to hold the ball before passing and is now less prone to silly errors. Belinda Upton and Fiona Wight are determined reliable players who always give of their best. As a team they should learn from the disappointments of the season and should gain the success they deserve in the U15 team.

RESULTS Dover College Cranbrook King's Canterbury Kent College Sevenoaks Tonbridge G.G.S. St. Edmund's St Lawrence Benenden

W L L L D W L W L

23- 3 29- 6 19-20 21- 2 19-19 13-11 10-15 17-9 19-24

TEAM: Hannah Taylor, Martine Davies, Katie Slaughter, Michelle Titcombe (capt.), Victoria Day, Belinda Upton, Fiona Wight, Caroline Critchley, Elizabeth Bailey.

Colours: Katie Slaughter, Michelle Titcombe S.M.Haywood,

Cross country The 1993 Cross-Country season started earlier than the previous year thereby giving us the chance to compete in the 'Knole Run' which got us back into the rhythm of running with Jon Holroyd coming a commendable Second. The races were once again organised into leagues with us competing against -74-

eleven other schools.

Fortunately the team was made up of experienced runners, notably Richard Wooderson, James Drury and Simon Mills, who have been running since the third year. These along with James Ryan, who joined in the Lower Sixth, ran consistently throughout the season once their fitness had returned after the festive period. Too much turkey definitely had an effect on the early performances!

We must also thank Cass Scott for supplying numerous excuses, none of which seemed to work, and phrases like 'Why should I run when I can walk', never fooled Mr. Clarke.

The inter-team consisted of Anthony Bell who when given the chance to run always did so with admirable quality. As to the girls they too competed well and we thank them for their dedication, especially Liz Parrett and Jess Mitson.

We owe a great deal of thanks to both Mr. Jillians and Mr. Clarke and to our Australian counterpart, Mark, who ran in the majority of races and provided great sources of entertainment. Perhaps most notable were Mr. Jillians' warm up styles, especially outside petrol stations!

To conclude the season it was fitting for our captain Jon Holroyd to win the Kents' School Championship after winning numerous races.

Perhaps the most memorable end to School CrossCountry running for all of the seniors was the uproarious singing on the final journey back to school, which was all in good part. Given time to reflect there is no doubt that all who took part enjoyed the sport in one way or another and those who depart will be sorry to go.

S. Mills U6 J. Drury U6

Basketball Captain: Ben Painter.

The senior squad, led by Ben Painter, had a disappointing season, despite the training presence of Mr. Latta, an American exchange for a year, as well as Josh Cosgrove, from Australia, who joined the School in the spring term and departed in December. He played his final game for the seniors against Sevenoaks, which was won. It was a low scoring game, just 38-27, but it was the third successive victory over this school. In the Kent cup, the squad met Hayes, which is an extremely strong side in the national context. A much weakened five put on a brave performance, losing 61-115. They then played Judd at home and in a very tight, hard fought game they lost 35-42, while the away game was even closer, but victory still eluded them 44-48. In recent years, Cranbrook has been developing a good reputation for basketball and in another tight, competitive fixture they lost 54-62. The last game of the

season was against a stronger than usual Common Room side, which provided stiff opposition. At full time it was 42-42, the school winning 48-46 in extra time, despite 22 points from Mr. Latta.

The Junior sides, in both the 4th and 5th years, were captained by Johnny Tse, who averaged almost 20 points a game. Virtually the same team, a group of just six players, played in both the Maidstone Schools' 4th Year Cup and 5th Year League. In the first, they were beaten in the SemiFinal by Maidstone Grammar 39-48, having won their pool of the early season tournament and soundly beaten Senacre 67-17, the captain on this occasion scoring 35 points. In the 5th Year League, they came 5th, losing to schools containing Kent players and in one instance an England schoolboy. It is quite possible that Johny Tse will be selected to represent Kent next year. He had an exceptional season, totalling 259 points in all matches - a school record.

In the first round of the Kent Cup, the 5th Year were soundly beaten by Astor of Hever 47-78.

In the Inter-House matches Westminster and St. Margaret's again dominated the Senior competition, with Westminster retaining the trophy, comfortably winning 38-17. However, there was an upset in the Juniors, with Founder's getting into the

fincil against St. Margaret's who only just managed to beat Lan- be's 13-12 in the semi-finals. In the end, St. Margaret's retained the title, winning 14-10.

Team Records: Seniors: Played 6, Won 2, Lost 4. Points for 280, against 340.

Individual totals: Painter 107, Bellerby-Brown 51, Shum 29, Tse 30, Abudu 35, Hodson 16.

Full Colours awarded to Bellerby-Brown. Half Colours to Hodson and Tse.

Juniors: Played 12, Won 7, Lost 6. Points for 496, against 487.

Individual totals: Tse 231, Kampanis 91, Kutschmann 87, Lee 63, Hodson 16, Wong 6.

Junior Colours awarded to: Karnpanis, Kutschmann and Lee. D. W .Taylor

Yet more carpet for the girls' Houses?

-75-

-76-

OLD SUTTONIANS SOCIETY NEWS NEWS REBECCA HAYWOOD (V 1985-1987) qualified as a Registered General Nurse from Guy's Hospital in 1990 and has working there as a staff nurse for the past two years. She has recently passed the Admiralty Interview Board and has been commissioned as a Nursing Officer in the Queen Alexandra's Royal Naval Nursing Service. Her first posting will be to the Royal Naval Hospital, Haslar, Gosport in July.

MARRIAGES MARSHMAN-ZID/ MERMAN In 1983 in New York John T. Marshman (1975 L) to Ann Zimmerman.

BIRTHS HIGH On 30th August 1992, to Kathy and Desmond High (1973 F, Hon.Sec., O.S.A.) a son, Rory Patrick.

CLARKE On 12th July 1992, to Elaine (nee Edwards) and Trevor Clarke (1978 F) a daughter, Mellisa, a sister for James and Jonathan.

RICKETTS On 8th June 1992, to Jill (nee Davies) and Charles Ricketts (1970 F), a son, Joseph. Joseph is a first grandchild for Judy and Michael Ricketts (Headmaster from 1967 to 1980).

PATEL On 1st August 1992, to the wife of Pyush Patel (1981 W), a son, Pritesh.

THOMAS On 28th November 1991, to Clare and Robin Thomas (1983 W), a daughter, Anna Elizabeth,

Correction: In the obituary of Frederick Hodgson published in the 1992 Suttonian, it was stated that Christopher Thornhill (1968 L) was the son of Paul Thornhill (1931 W).

In fact Christopher is the son of Geoffrey Thornhill (1939 W); we apologise for the error and any inconvenience it may have caused.

DEATHS BACON On 12th August 1992, Cecil Walter Bacon (1918 M), aged 86. Cecil Bacon was only at Sutton Valence for a couple of years before ill-health forced him to leave. When fit again he went to St. Lawrence College, Ramsgate. However, Cecil, or 'CWB', as he became known, always remembered his stay at Sutton with affection and kept up his connection with the school until his death.

He was distinguished for his illustrations in the Radio Times and for his wartime posters. After studying at Hastings School of Art, he had worked in a commercial studio and for an advertising agency before going freelance in 1929. During the Second World War he worked for the Ministry of Information and his posters were used in the London Underground. He also illustrated covers for books, one of which was 'A Town Like Alice' by Nevil Shute, His work was exhibited at the Folio Society in 1957, the exhibition being taken to the U.S.A. under the auspices of the Arts Council. In 1981 his work was exbibited at the "Fifty Yecr the London Design Cent, STEAD On 21st Septen Stead (1921 M), aged 89. Francis was the elder'. brother of John Stead (1922 M), who lives at Goudhurst, of Richard Stickhouse Stead (1925 M) who died in 1972, and George Sumner Stead (1927 M) who was killed in North Africa on active service in 1942, whilst serving with the RAFVR. After leaving school, Francis spent five years Tobacco Planting in the then Southern Rhodesia, now Zimbabwe. He moved to Assam in India where he spent the remainder of his working life TeaPlanting. From 1940 to 45 he was in the Indian Army as a Captain in the Royal Indian Army Service Corps. He retired from India in 1957 and had spent his retirement in Sandhurst Kent.

CLARK On 23rd February 1993, suddenly, William James Falconer Clark (1922 W) aged 88. His brother writes: 'Bill Clark was brother of Franklin F. Clark (1925 W) and uncle to Jeremy F. Clark (1961 W). After leaving Sutton Valence, he joined Barclays Bank and during World War II served with the Royal Artillery, taking part in the 'D' Day landing and advance into Europe. Keen on painting and sketching he left an interesting pictorial record of life before, during and after the 'D' Day landings. After retiring from the Bank he spent a short time with Hawker Aircraft.

Producer of a number of interesting tapes, paintings, stories and poems, he refused to sell or go public, although a volume of his poems was printed and distributed privately. Keen on entomology, he passed his knowledge on in many lectures to children.

His great love was the Countryside and it is hoped that a donation made to the Woodland Trust will help to provide a fitting memorial.'

-77-

The Old Forge, Sutton Valence.

The Editor, The Suttonian.

22nd.May 1993 Sir, I hope you will be able to find sufficient space in your columns for this short letter of thanks to all those of your O.S. readers who contributed to the cheque that was presented to me at last night's O.S. Dinner. I am deeply touched by their generosity.

I developed a great fondness for Sutton Valence when I was a boy at the School and, although it was not my intention when I returned to teach there in 1963 to stay long, I quickly found myself putting down roots and... Well, you know the rest of the story.

I have no plans to leave the village now that I am retired and intend to go on living at the Old Forge, where I shall be delighted to welcome any O.S. who are passing by on a trip down memory lane.

Floreat Suttona!

Michael Beaman.

Can you spot the young Keith?

-78-

A Tribute to K.M.S. ust of all, I must apologise to both K. M. S. and the readers of The Suttonian for not including this appreciation in the 1992 edition. My feelings of regret at the delay, however, are considerably alleviated by the fact that Keith's presence at Sutton Valence is still very much in evidence in the Common Room, the Careers' Department and the Chapel. Indeed, it could almost be said that he has scarcely left the school at all Educated at Merchant Taylor's School, Northwood, and following National Service in the Royal Tank Regiment, Keith took his degree in Botany and gained a diploma of Education at Durham University. Some of his particular interests emerged at this time, since he served in the University Air Squadron as a pilot, played rugby, as well as making himself available for the O.M.T. teams in both Cricket and Rugby.

With a formidable CV at his disposal, it was scarcely surprising that Keith was appointed as Head of Biology at Harwich Grammar School; he took on a similar position at Ardingly College (a Woodard School in Sussex) where he served in the CCF - he had been in the T.A. before - and became a Housemaster, as well as running 1st XV Rugby and 1st Xl Cricket at various times. The man we were to know so well at Sutton Valence was already showing his true colours! However, before arriving here in 1968 to take over the Biology Department for John Bennallock-Hart, he was, for a short period, 6th Form Biology Master at Haberdashers Aske's School at Elstree.

Keith, inevitably, soon made his mark at Sutton Valence: first of all, as coach and referee of Rugby Football (2nd XV); as cricket coach and cunning left arm bowler; and then as officer in the CCF which he later commanded for two years. For his service there, he was later awarded the Cadet Force Medal. Within two years of his arrival, he was appointed by Michael Rickets to succeed Patrick Mcllwaine as Housemaster of St. Margaret's, where he stayed eight years, before subsequently becom-

F

ing a much valued out-tutor in the same House.

These, of course, are only the bare facts of a school career that was full of vitality, variety and total devotion to those 'under his wing', in whatever capacity. K.M.S. also ran Air Rifle Shooting and House League Hockey with the same sort of enthusiasm he injected into his Housemastering and his teaching of Biology, in which two areas so many past pupils have reason to thank and remember him.

He also gave us - and still does - the benefit of his deep religious faith, through the most beautifullyconstructed and imaginatively delivered 'talks' in Chapel, as well as acting as lay assistant at Chapel Communion Services. He is, at present, concluding a course that will ultimately qualify him as a fullyfledged Lay Preacher.

His contribution to our'close community', as Li. Scott so aptly wrote in her article about K.M.S. (see The Suttonian 1991 - Page 14), went even wider, for he was Common Room Secretary for a while, Member of the Academic Committee for seventeen years as well as running the Industry Conference for three years. He was always interested in helping out on the careers side, and it is, therefore, entirely appropriate that this has been the central part of his contribution to the school since his retirement in July 1991.

It would be quite wrong of me not to make some reference to the loyalty and devotion given to Keith by his wife, Gill and his three children. His sons, Michael and Neil, distinguished members of Founder's House when I was the Housemaster, were a credit both to him, Gill and the school. Michael, the more reserved of the two, another cunning left arm bowler of 'Chinamen', was loyalty personified, while Neil, as well as increasing in confidence throughout his school career, was an expert hooker - no doubt in the vein of his father - in addition to being Captain of the 1st XV and, in his final term, Head Boy. What a truly remarkable record the Smith family have left behind them!

R.D. Chance.

-79-

Designed & Typeset by Sutton Valence School.

Printed by Brewster Printing Co Ltd.. The Common, Rochester, Kent ME1 1PR.Tel: (0634) 845592 Fax: 10634) 832421.