March 2025.
04. 2020 Leavers Welcomed as Year 5 Returners
06. Coming Full Circle
10. The Black Door
12. OW Rising Stars
14. Like Father, Like Daughter
16. The Liberty Loses the Cedar Tree
22. Cheerio to Mr Barnard
26. Dates for your Diary
Pictured on the cover is François Cloete, OW 2021, taken during his time at Wells Cathedral School. François received financial support to take up his Organ Scholarship at Wells and has recently accepted a new role in London.
Find out more on page 20.
A letter from the Head of Sixth Form.
Dear Old Wellensians,
It is with great pleasure that I edit this edition of the OW Bulletin. Reconnecting with many of you over the past few months has been truly wonderful. I have such fond memories of you, and it’s been a privilege to hear about your continued success and even welcome some of you back as colleagues (find out about some returners on pages 6-9).
In January, seven of you joined me in helping prepare our Sixth Form pupils with interview practice; your wisdom and experience was invaluable. I am also delighted to have seen so many of the 2020 Year Group as well as other OW vintages dressed to the nines at our reunion dinner in London. You can see them dressed to impress on pages 4-5. It’s always a proud moment to see the journeys our Old Wellies are on.
The stories shared within these pages highlight the remarkable achievements, both personal and professional, of our Wellensian community. It’s particularly rewarding to now be teaching the next generation – your children – and to witness the continuity of excellence across the years. My husband, David, and I have been part of this wonderful school for 35 years and now that our own sons are OWs, the Wellensian Association means more to us than ever before.
I’d like to extend my sincere thanks to all who contributed to this issue. Your updates, insights, and support are what make the OW Bulletin such a joy to put together. I can’t wait to see where life takes you next and I look forward to celebrating even more successes in future issues.
With warmest regards,
Sally Rowley Head of Sixth Form
2020 Leavers now Five-Year Returners.
We were excited to welcome over 60 of you to the Wellensian Association annual London Dinner at the RAF Club in February.
This year was particularly meaningful to our FiveYear Returners who, having left in the summer lockdown of 2020, never had the opportunity to have their Sixth Form Ball or properly say goodbye to friends. The dinner offered these Old Wellensians the long-awaited chance to reconnect and celebrate their time at school. Despite the soggy weather the atmosphere was electric, with drinks flowing and plenty of laughter as OWs from across the years shared memories and caught up.
The London Dinner has become a much anticipated tradition for those celebrating their five-year reunion. In his speech Head Master Alastair Tighe reflected on how the 2020 Year Group missed the iconic moment of walking out of the West End doors of the Cathedral then to have the door close behind thema powerful symbol of endings and new beginnings.
Special thanks must go to our most senior Wellensian, Gerald Duke, OW 1969 for leading us in prayer before the meal and to George Bunting, OW 1970, and Chair of the Wellensian Association for once again organising this memorable event.
We can’t wait to welcome you to our summer reunion on 21st June. Find out more on page 13.
Coming full circle. Where
are you now?
Wells Cathedral School holds a special place in the heart of many Old Wellensians. A number of members of staff, past and present, are OWs themselves. The history of School alumni returning to Wells is nothing new and includes Henry Mills, who returned in 1699 until the end of his tenure in 1712. He gave his name to Mills, a day house from 1948 until the early 21st century. We spoke to two about their experiences.
Rachel’s Return
Rachel Hansen, OW 1984, has a truly inspirational story. Now Head of HR, she spoke to us about how she came to take up the position here at School.
Rachel recalls, “I am the youngest of five children and all of my siblings came as pupils to Wells, two of my brothers were choristers”. Unlike her brothers, Rachel’s passions lay in the equestrian world rather than in music. Pursuing this passion for horses, she went on to Chippenham College to gain her horse riding teaching qualification and picked up secretarial skills, including shorthand, along the way.
Rachel kicked off her career at legal firm Harris and Harris in Wells, and was involved in conveyancing and probate for seven years. Offered a chance to advance in law, she instead took the leap into HR at a global drinks company. Starting as an administrator she climbed to Corporate HR Manager in just a decade!
Craving new challenges, she moved to a startup software company in Bath, building the HR team from scratch and helping it grow from 90 to over 1,000 employees. She then led HR at Mulberry as Head of Group HR, doubling their workforce and driving global expansion. “That was a great success story - our revenue trebled in the nine years I was there,” she explains proudly.
In 2021, a role at Wells Cathedral School was advertised. “It was my sister who saw the Head of HR role on social media. She wrote and said ‘I’ve found your next job’.
“Most of the buildings really haven’t changed a bit,” Rachel says “The Tudway block, the whole stable yard is exactly the same. The swimming pool now has a cover on it! I remember, as a young pupil, having to swim all year round in an open swimming pool, so it was nice to see that. The other big change is the Cook building, the maths block, as we used to have portacabins. The Dining Hall has changed too, it used to be a long dark corridor, and we used to have lunch on long benches where the Drawing and Morning Rooms are today. It’s lovely seeing them put back as they, potentially, originally were. And of course, Cedars Hall, that wasn’t here.
“I say to people that being a pupil here was a brilliant foundation for the rest of my career, and it set me up really, really well and positively to have the career that I’ve had. I remember my tutor writing a reference for my very first job, and he said that ‘Rachel may not be academically outstanding, but she is a great person, and I believe she will excel in her role.’
“I did have a really good experience as a pupil here with many fond memories. I’ve worked for some great employers in industry, and the culture of an employer is very important to me. Coming here to work seems like a natural progression. I have come full circle to come back to School and it just feels really complete for me.”
With her passion, adaptability, and a willingness to seize opportunities, Rachel has built a truly remarkable career. She says Wells Cathedral School is like a “family”.
A Homegrown Priest
Another OW, Revd Tom Handy, 1998, has been School chaplain since January 2023. His career began as a secondary school teacher but he soon found his calling as a priest.
Tom describes his calling to ministry as like a “lightning bolt”. He explains “It was at the point where the priest broke the bread, and it made a really loud snap. It was a clarity moment, I can still hear that snap now!”
As a child Tom had a passion for drama and he thought he’d pursue a career in acting. With hindsight, the influence Wells Cathedral School had on his spirituality was profound, though not initially apparent. One key figure was the chaplain at the time, Peter Hogg, “he was always probing and challenging [traditional beliefs] but in a really compassionate way” Tom recalls.
Tom went on to study at Trinity College and earned an MA from Bristol University with a pioneering thesis on vegetarianism and theology. Ordained at Wells Cathedral, he could be described as a “homegrown” priest. His curacy in Shepton Mallet deepened his love for the community, afterwards serving as rector in rural South Petherton. As a
parish priest, he often felt more like a chaplain, cherishing the pastoral aspects of his role.
Having come ‘home’ to Wells Cathedral School as chaplain, he’s often hit by the nostalgia of the place, expecting to see familiar faces around every corner.
“Being a pupil here was a brilliant foundation for the rest of my career.”
“There are lots of surprises about being a priest.”
Tom says “Before I started training a member of clergy said to me: ‘prepare yourself for the fact that wherever you are, however you're dressed, people will see the collar. They will know on some level.’ And that's proved to be absolutely right. That's a really surprising thing, the interactions that present themselves.”
Tom is passionate about both education and pastoral care. He is a devoted father to three daughters and is currently studying part time to be a counsellor to complement his chaplaincy work.
Both Tom and Rachel commented that the School really lives up to its motto ‘Esto Quod Es’, Be What You Are and that it gave them space to be confident in themselves. Over a dozen OWs are on the staff team, a testament to the wonderful place Wells is.
If you would like to share your story please email alumni@wells.cathedral.school
The Black Door: a time capsule.
While replacing gas taps in Room S5, we discovered a ‘hidden time capsule’ hidden in a cupboard behind what our 1997 pupils affectionately dubbed, ‘the black door.’
Head of Chemistry, Helen Gray, whom many of you may remember by her maiden name, Tallett, uncovered this relic in a cupboard within her science classroom.
This room has remained largely unchanged and will surely spark memories for many. We’ve even gone a step further, attempting to recreate a photograph believed to be taken in the 1950s, offering a
vivid reminder of how much - and how little - has changed over the years.
With thanks to Stefanie Foulerton (nee Keith), Philip Anson, James Parsley and Tim Lang - all OWs from the Year Group of 1999 - for their 1997 note. Also to Matthew Cook, Giles Crossley, Jon Cook and Esther Bullock (nee Arnold) - from the 2002 Year Groupfor their reply in 2000.
Do you remember the black door?
Old Wellensian Rising Stars.
This incredible series of concerts welcomes back the Rising Stars of Wells alumni: incredible performers at the beginning of their careers.
Quilter Hall was a buzz of excitement on 8th February as Julian Chan, OW 2018 and Gerard Flotats, OW 2019 performed to a full audience. Julian and Gerard performed solos and duets and the eclectic programme featured music from across the centuries including Beethoven and Lera Auerbach.
Gerard is a Catalan cellist making classical music relevant for today’s audiences. He is passionate about showcasing lesser-known pieces and collaborates with composers to introduce contemporary music to new listeners.
Julian has a reputation as one of the most innovative pianists of his generation. He is himself a composer and performer of new music. Aged 6 he earnt himself the title of Malaysias’s Youngest Composer when his first book of compositions was published.
With a huge thanks to the Wellensian Association for sponsoring this amazing series.
Join us for the next concert which takes place on 17th May. Fergus McCready, OW 2018, currently Principal Oboe with the Orchestra of The Royal Opera House and award winning Malaysian pianist Bridget Yee, OW 2022 will both be performing.
From Pupils to Pros.
Seven OWs returned to School on 31st January to assist with our Sixth Form interview preparation afternoon. These former pupils, now accomplished professionals in a range of fields, offered invaluable insights and advice to our current pupils. The mock interviews allowed Lower Sixth pupils to experience the challenges of real-world interviews, honing their communication and critical thinking skills in a supportive environment.
Organised by Head of Sixth Form, Sally Rowley, Cedars Hall was transformed into a bustling interview hub. 23 interviewers, including staff and other friends of the School, lined up in neat rows. Reminiscent of exam days the sight certainly brought back memories!
With thanks in particular to our Old Wellensian interviewers: Pollie Bromilow and Anna Jackson, both from the 1992 Year Group, Ann Whalley OW 1979, Rachel Hansen OW 1984 (pictured top right), Jamie Hammick OW 2002, Emily Johnstone OW 2004 and Charlotte Sheaf OW 2007.
If you could spare some time to take part in future interview sessions please contact alumni@wells.cathedral.school
Summer Reunion in Wells.
Get ready for the event of the year – the 2025 Summer Reunion on 21 June! Tickets for the highly anticipated Summer Reunion and Wellensian Weekend go on sale on 18 April (Good Friday) and after a sell-out success last year, you won’t want to miss this one. This year, we’re celebrating the milestone reunions of the 1965, 1975, 1985, 1995, 2005, and 2015 year groups, marking incredible 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60-year anniversaries.
It’s not just a reunion, it’s a weekend of events. Along with a delicious dinner and exclusive tours of the School, we’ve got OW Cricket, our second Wellensian Road Ride, and plenty of opportunities to reconnect with old friends. Whether you’re celebrating a big milestone or just want to be part of the fun, everyone is welcome! Mark your calendars and get your tickets before they’re gone.
To find out more: https://community. wells-cathedral-school.com/event/ summer-reunion-2025
Like Father, Like Daughter: A Wells Tradition.
Currently, around 30 Old Wellensians have children attending Wells Cathedral School. Generations of families have trodden the same cobbles as their parents and grandparents. We spoke to Andy Lennard, OW 1984, who has enjoyed a career with the Ministry of Defence. He shared what Wells Cathedral School meant to him and why he chose it for his daughter.
“I have nothing but happy memories of Wells. It was a life changer.”
Andy joined Wells in 1980 in what is now known as Year 10. “I had four wonderful years at Wells. My parents got divorced during secondary school and it had an impact on me; I didn’t really take my studies as seriously. I said to my father that I’d like to go to the Cathedral School, and so I did.
“I loved it! My best friends were boarders so my younger brother Dave and I would go down every day after prep, listening to music and eating toast.”
Andy still keeps in touch with many of his school friends and attended last year’s Summer Reunion. Reflecting on his memories of school, Andy recalls, “There was something called the 56 Club where all the Fifth and Sixth formers would go to a disco - a great way to meet boyfriends or girlfriends. I even enjoyed Saturday morning school, strange as that may sound.”
He fondly remembers his time in the CCF and the hobbies on Wednesday afternoons, which remain part of the school today. His experiences with the CCF influenced his later service as an officer with the Army Reserve and Royal Auxiliary Air Force.
“Wells Cathedral School encouraged me to reach my potential. I did well socially and sportswise. I was a prefect in the Sixth Form and I was in the First XV. I also did well academically, so I got into the London School of Economics. I don’t believe I would have gone on to do the things I did had I not come to Wells.”
Andy’s career at the Ministry of Defence has been extraordinary. Starting in 1990 as an analyst, he quickly rose through the ranks, taking on roles across the globe, from providing intelligence on the Former Soviet Union to leading military-civilian teams in Yugoslavia. In 2008, he became the first Director of the NATO Advisory Team to Kosovo, helping establish the Ministry for the Kosovo Security Force. Andy’s international influence continued with assignments in Libya, Somalia, and North Macedonia, focusing on defence reform and security sector assistance.
Choosing a school for Alice.
Andy explains that it was his wife, Helen, who initially suggested sending their daughter Alice to Wells Cathedral School. “It was my wife Helen’s idea to send Alice to Wells because she knew how much I loved my time there.” Having regularly visited Wells, where Andy’s father lived until six years ago, Helen was already familiar with the school. “Helen knew the School, at least historically, with the very lovely caring environment. She also felt it would be a safe environment where kids are given the opportunity to go into town, their independence is encouraged but in a safe way.”
The fact that Wells is a Cathedral School also played a part in their decision, as Alice is Catholic. “We both liked the idea of her going to Wells, the unique opportunities and experience that it would offer, the fact it’s my hometown and I’d been to the School, and if I can immodestly say, I’ve been reasonably successful.”
Andy, who has spent 30 years working with the Ministry of Defence, is currently the policy lead on Economic Security. Reflecting on his career, he adds, “It’s taken me all over the world. I thoroughly enjoy working with intelligence agencies, diplomats and working alongside military colleagues. Wells changed everything for me and that’s why we wanted the best for Alice.”
Alice has adjusted well to her new school environment. “I was able to tell Alice how much my boarder friends enjoyed it, and she has settled in very well. It is a change, but one she has rapidly adapted to.”
Andy’s return to Wells for a reunion in June was particularly memorable, coinciding with a meeting with the Head Master the day before.
“I still can’t believe I’m saying I came back for my fortieth anniversary because time has gone so quickly, I can imagine myself in uniform wandering through the stable block even now.
“Wells is a very important part of my life. When I look back, I wouldn’t change a thing, it’s great.”
Our next Open Morning is on Saturday 10th May 2025. To book your place, or if you’re considering Wells for your child, please contact the admissions team, described by Andy as “wonderful”, on 01749 834441 or email admissions@wells.cathedral.school. Old Wellensians are entitled to an OW discount.
1981 First XV, Andy pictured in the middle of the top row
The Liberty loses the Cedar Tree.
In December we were devastated to witness the downfall of the iconic cedar tree on the corner of the Liberty and no doubt this Wells landmark will be remembered by you all. It seems strange that many photos of the School, and those of Cedars House in particular, feature the tree poking its upper canopy above the roof of the old house. As a School we truly have been living in its shadow, it has rooted us, a silent but friendly giant living amongst us.
The tree itself was first condemned after a survey undertaken by Wells Cathedral in April last year and Toby Wright, Dean of Wells said at the time that “the decision to fell and replace such a magnificent tree is an emotive decision for the team”, and we may say, for the whole of Wells. Sadly in December, in the wake of Storm Darragh, its removal was expedited.
The storm caused boughs to break, crack and fall, narrowly missing Claver Morris and Plumptre boarding houses. Fortunately, no pupils or staff were injured. A week after the immediate remedial action to clear the road and reopen the Liberty the road was closed for two days as the majestic cedar was reduced from tree to stump. The good news is that the Cathedral, who own the land the tree stood on, plans to plant a sapling in its place.
The cedar tree had been a feature of the Liberty for over 157 years. It was planted on the occasion of Charles Clement Tudway’s 21st birthday on 23rd November 1867, and it would be fair to say that a birthday gift that lasts over a century is a truly special one. Whilst it was not this particular cedar tree that gave its name to the house - the house was built in 1758 and its original name was simply The Cedars believed to be after the trees on Cedars Field - cedar trees are particularly close to the heart of the School. Our patron, His Majesty King Charles III, planted a blue atlas cedar on Cedars Lawn in 1978 as Prince of Wales and in 2016 a new music venue, Cedars Hall, was opened.
As we explored the archives to find out more about the history of the tree and about the connections pupils have had with it over the past sixteen decades we were surprised to find a plethora of material on various trees around the School site.
In 1940 one pupil wrote in the Wellensian “The general aspect of the School has changed considerably with the removal of the trees in front which formerly shielded it from the public gaze. Now from their seclusion the buildings are thrust before the eye in all their own unborrowed Glory.” This comment could to some extent apply today, 85 years later, as the skyline above Wells is changed forever.
A DISTRACTION
Outside my window is a cedar tree. I am trying to do my work but I have been distracted by this wonderful wooden statue. I stare at it and become lost in its maze of robust furry tipped fingers. It appears to have a marvellous sense of depth and space, and yet it seems so compact and so vastly strong. It looks like a wise stately old man and the evergreen fronds look like a vast umbrella. The fronds lie in distinct layers that remind me of old withered hands. I can almost see myself jumping from one, down onto the other below and landing amongst the furry fingers and being cushioned by a lazy sinking action from the sturdy wrists.
The boughs come out of the main trunk at all sorts of crazy angles and yet the tree is as balanced as a pair of perfect scales. In the evening and when the sun is partially obscured by the clouds, the sight to me is two dimensional. The silhouette is like a black ragged cloth set against white, with random lacerations and pin pricks in it which let the light come through... but I must do some work.
Paul Glass, writing in The Wellensian in 1971
Your reunions.
We love hearing what you’re up to! Here are a couple of your recent meetups shared on Facebook.
Hannah Biss, Matthew Train, and Juan Drown caught up over drinks in January. Hannah shared: “These two left Wells in summer ‘89, I joined that September, so we were never at school together, but now we see each other regularly in London!”
Rachel Moffatt and Sonia Legg posed in front of Bristol Suspension Bridge. Rachel posted: “Friends for over 46 years. It’s the 40th anniversary of our leaving Wells this year. Reunion get-together planned at Wells on 21st June - we’re hoping for a big turnout! 1985 Upper 6th leavers, earlier classmates, and anyone who knew us are welcome! Shirley Coe and Peter Steer are leading the campaign. We’d love as many people as possible to get in touch…”
Wells to Westminster.
François Cloete, OW 2021 and former organ scholar here in Wells, has been appointed organ scholar at Westminster Abbey.
“I am thrilled to take up an organ scholarship at the Abbey this September. The opportunity to work in the heart of London, at one of the world’s great choral foundations, is inspiring. I look forward to developing further as a church musician under the mentorship of Andrew Nethsingha and the rest of the team at Westminster.”
François is currently organ scholar at Merton College, Oxford. On 26th February you may have heard François playing live on BBC Radio 3 with Merton College Choir and the Britten Sinfonia.
“My career ambitions would not have been possible without the training and support I received as a specialist musician at Wells. I will always look fondly on my time at Wells and hope to visit soon!”
François at Merton College
From School Tour to GRAMMY Glory!
Cian Ducrot, OW 2017, has hit the top note by winning his first GRAMMY! On 2nd February, Cian won Best R&B Song as a songwriter for his work on SZA's track Saturn.
As well as a songwriter, Cian was a specialist flautist during his time at Wells Cathedral School and we’re thrilled to see him excel on the world stage.
Pictured here performing on the School’s Hong Kong tour, Cian’s journey is truly inspiring. Here’s to many more achievements in his brilliant career!
Trombone Triumphs.
We were thrilled to welcome back outstanding trombonist Meggie Murphy, OW 2019 on Sunday 9th February for an unforgettable British Trombone Society Day. Currently on trial with both the prestigious Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Meggie’s star continues to rise.
Over the New Year, she took part in a whirlwind tour of China with the RSNO. In another momentous achievement, Meg recently wowed the judges at the Royal Overseas League Wind, Brass, and Percussion Solo Competition, earning the esteemed Philip Jones Brass Prize.
Exciting things are ahead for Meggie, as she prepares to perform with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at iconic venues like Cadogan Hall and the Royal Albert Hall. She’ll also take the stage with the BBC Concert Orchestra and Royal Northern
Sinfonia, before joining fellow Old Wellensians Hannah Williams and Eliza Talman, OW 2020, at the Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch with the Solis Trio. (Hannah and Eliza both recently celebrated their 5 Year Reunion with us at the RAF Club, see pages 4-5 for photos from the night).
And as if that wasn’t enough, Meggie is heading to Vienna to audition for the Vienna Philharmonic Academy. We couldn’t be prouder of her incredible journey, and we wish her all the best as she continues to soar!
Meggie performing in Cedar’s Hall as part of Trombone Day.
Cheerio to Major Barnard.
After a fantastic 32 years, Wells Cathedral School bid farewell to Jonathan Barnard. Although he’s always welcome to come back and pay us a visit we’ve been assured that this will be the final time! Jonathan has been an integral part of our Wellensian community, but he will be most fondly remembered for his leadership of the CCF.
Having joined at Michaelmas Term 1991, pupils’ first impressions of Mr Barnard were recorded in the 1992 edition of The Wellensian by Barnaby Pinfield, OW 1993:
Mr Bamard was born in Bristol, but spent the next 18 years of his life in Kenya and South Africa. He was educated at Radley College, then read physics at Bristol University.
Before entering teaching, he worked for a firm of chartered surveyors for eight years, which he found incredibly boring. He was previously a Deputy House Master at Colstons School.
He has taken an interest in a variety of school activities: he is an active member of the CCF, he coaches one of the school hockey teams and takes pupils on caving expeditions. Out of school Jonathan Barnard is a keen sportsman and represented his university at both rowing and rugby. He was also master and huntsman of the Clifton Foot Beagles, a fact he believes may cause controversy. Jonathan Barnard has found Wells and Butcombe where he lives a most peaceful and serene area after Bristol.
He has been impressed by the rapport between staff and pupils. He sees his development at the school on the pastoral rather than academic side, perhaps becoming a House Master in the future.
However, Jonathan Barnard was more than a science teacher. He was a mentor and a role model. His commitment and dedication to the CCF instilled core values of leadership and teamwork into many Wellensians. He opened the door to countless experiences that shaped pupils’ lives in ways that went beyond the classroom.
In December, the School hosted a farewell supper which brought together current and former cadets along with staff past and present. Thank you to Adam Cary and Charlie Bacon from the 2001 Year Group, Megan Paverley (OW 2004), Dave Konstanz (OW 2005), as well as Miranda Little and Will Laws from the 2007 Year Group, for joining us for this special occasion.
As we bid farewell, we thank Jonathan for his exceptional service to the School. His legacy will live on through the many lives he has touched, and he will be deeply missed. We wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement.
Here are just a handful of heartwarming messages we received, perhaps they will spark some of your own memories of Jonathan…
Thank you for the years of teaching and vitally, the inspiration to get outside and enjoy amazing and wild adventures. I chuckle to myself every time I catch myself saying ‘Mummy, daddy or the significant adult with whom you live’.
- Tom Laws, OW 2005
Mr Barnard, some of my fondest memories of being at Wells are the times and experiences with CCF. A particularly poignant memory is walking into our old physics classroom with you sitting at your desk in blacked out sunglasses, no hint of emotion on your face like you were born wearing them. Given that it was a grey dreary day and you were indoors, it was a strange sight to say the least but then learning that you were concealing a black eye that had come from being in the nosebleed section of a Metallica concert automatically rocketed your status as a WCS Legend! You were one of the best.
- Sam Shelton, OW 2007
He was a key figure in my time at Wells and CCF was an important part of that.
- Edmund Tapfield, OW 2003
Thank you so much for everything you’ve done over the years at WCS. There’s one thing I have to come clean on. After the end of Summer term one year, Sam Shelton and I decided it would be a great idea to play phone call roulette. It involved scrolling through a Nokia 3310 without looking at which phone number came up, then calling the recipient using a withheld number and saying something that, at the time, we thought was hilariously witty. I decided I would open up one call by asking in a silly voice “Hello, is that Jon?” and then “would you be able to sell me a garden trellis?” I was obviously pretty shocked when the person who picked up announced they were indeed called Jon and that I then recognised the voice of Mr Barnard, whose number Sam had on his phone for CCF emergencies! I trust your garden trellis is still in good nick and hasn’t been sold to another cold caller. Thanks again and wishing you a thoroughly relaxing and hard-earned retirement.
- Jo Charles, OW 2007
Announcement.
Wyndham Innes Davey Woodburn, OW 1943, died on 13 January 2025 having reached the grand age of 100 on 25 November 2024.
Wyndham spoke fondly of his time at Wells having joined the School as a chorister in 1934, something he was incredibly proud of. He went on to be confirmed in Wells Cathedral, a milestone that marked the beginning of a lifelong dedication to his faith, latterly serving as sacristan in his local chuch. Wyndham’s friend Michael commented “he remained a devout Christian all his life, going to the early (8am) service every Sunday on his bicycle until just before his 99th birthday”.
We have been delighted to welcome Wyndham back to School on a number of occasions, most recently he joined us for Evensong in 2017. He met with our then Principal, Elizabeth Cairncross and shared his memories of his School days.
Wyndham’s time at School was also marked by his passion for running. He was frequently mentioned in The Wellensian for placing in the 100-yard sprint and he maintained a love for sport throughout his life. After leaving school, Wyndham joined the Royal Navy, serving with dedication during the war. Following his naval service, he continued his commitment to helping others by training as a podiatrist and spending the next 37 years as a chiropodist at Guy's group of hospitals in London. In his spare time, Wyndham took up golf and remained connected to his naval roots by sailing with his local club.
Did you know?
When Wyndham joined the School in 1934, it looked very different to how it does today. Fewer than 100 boys were on the School roll. The Head Master was Rev Alistair Ritchie. Prize-giving was held in the School’s first dedicated building, Ritchie Hall - although it would have been known as the Bernard Building in Wyndham’s day. Edwards House had just been acquired as the ‘new’ Junior House. De Salis hadn’t yet become part of the School and meals took place in the dining room in Cedars House. Milk was provided by the School’s very own cow and the Laundry garden was used, as the name suggests, for drying the clothes that had been washed in the School’s enormous coppers.
If you have an announcement you’d like to share with the OW community please get in touch by emailing alumni@wells.cathedral.school
The whole School photo from 1940
Dates for your diary.
WCS v OW Hockey, both mens & ladies
Wells Cathedral Choir Association Reunion
Summer Open Morning for prospective families
Old Wellensian Rising Stars Concert, with Fergus McCready and Bridget Yee.
Wellensian Weekend! Summer Reunion including dinner, School tours, Wellensian Road Ride, OW cricket
Symphony Orchestra concert in Wells Cathedral
Speech Day Cricket
Keep an eye on our website for information about upcoming events here: https://community.wells-cathedral-school.com/events
Wells Cathedral School also hosts a range of summer schools from specialist music to performance sport. Summer schools run from 27th July to 29th August so if you know a young person who might be interested sign up now.
To find out more visit the website: https://wcsenterprises.co.uk/our-activities
Word Search.
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“It’s one of the most special things you could possibly do.” Charlotte Arthur, bursary recipient, Class of 2020. A Quilter Fund bursary can open the door and transform lives.