Wulfrunian 2023

Welcome from the Head

It is an immense privilege to be the Head of Wolverhampton Grammar School this year, following in the footsteps of my many great predecessors. I can’t quite believe that I find myself writing the introduction to the Wulfrunian, a little matter of 40 years since I began here as a 10-year-old boy, starting WGS back in 1983.

I have always known that this school is unique with a very special community. Whether you are a student or a member of staff, the relationships which start here in school, last for a lifetime. I can testify to this with my good friend from the 1990 cohort Alex Vergopoulos, speaking at this year’s Prizegiving. The WGS welcome embraces everyone from our youngest student to our wisest member of staff.

From the classroom to the sports field, art, dance and music studios, drama theatre to the library – there is truly something here for everyone.

We provide an education that is as individual as our students are. Our students love being here and the school day goes on far beyond the 4 o’clock bell. We offer a myriad of extra-curricular activities. Our students are busy debating, singing, climbing, acting, playing chess, fundraising, learning languages and even Warhammering! On top of this, we have ventured to Holland, Portugal, Iceland, Morocco, France, Belgium and South Africa on school trips during the year. The opportunities are massive.

Our 2023 success in the external exam world of GCSE and A level gave us great joy with the highest A*- B pass rate at A level in recent times. I wish the 2023 leavers our best wishes as they leave to have successful lives outside the school gates and join our distinguished alumni community representing over 500 years

of shared history. In the Junior School, we have had success in equal measure and this year saw a rise in our performance data in both English and Maths, as well as regional and national sporting success. We are so proud of our students.

I wish to thank my most recent predecessor, Alex Frazer, for his 3 years as Head. Arriving during the Covid pandemic in 2020, Alex led the School with enthusiasm and determination. We wish him well in his new ventures and all the best for the future.

Our mission here at WGS is ‘to transform lives, as well as minds’. Our School is built around relationships and community; a school that strives to educate and inspire our young people as individuals, to enable each of them to reach their potential and go out into the world as confident young adults who can make a difference in all areas of their lives.

We hope that this year’s Wulfrunian goes some way to demonstrating what we, across the whole school, have achieved this year. As ever, we are grateful to our staff, who give so freely of their time, expertise and energy to making such an exciting education possible.

Nic Anderson Head

From Big School to Big Tech:

A woman at the forefront of innovation

It’s funny now that I remember asking in my interview how the company was doing as I didn’t want to be laid off again. Apple wasn’t what it is now!

Former Head Girl, Trisha Ramdoo (OW 2001), began her career as a solicitor but made the transition from lawyer to business affairs when she joined Media Arts Lab, an ad agency created solely to look after Apple. This was at the time Apple had just released their first iPhone; little did she know what was to follow!

Originally based in London, Trisha moved to the agency’s Los Angeles headquarters in 2013, where she led business affairs for award-winning domestic and global campaigns for more than a dozen iPhone iterations, as well as numerous iPads, Macs, Apple Watches, iPods and the debut of Apple Music.

If one global brand wasn’t enough, Trisha’s latest role is Global Head of Business Affairs, Devices and Services for Google, based in San Francisco. We caught up with her to find out more:

Tell us how you have come to work for two of the most famous global brands on the planet!

After I graduated from Leicester University and completed my legal practice course in London, I received a training contract to one of the top advertising and marketing law firms in the UK, Lewis Silkin LLP. They had incredible clients such as Nike, the FA and Apple. During my time there I decided I wanted to become a Media Lawyer and specialise in Advertising.

The market was starting to turn, and I had to leave Lewis Silkin and I found myself at a boutique law firm in the city specialising in Intellectual Property. The recession of 2009 hit, and I was soon laid off from this new firm. I had no idea what I was going to do. Out of nowhere one of my old Partners at Lewis Silkin asked me if I remembered working on an Apple campaign called ‘Mac vs PC’. That same company was hiring for this thing called Business Affairs and if I was up for a change in direction, he thought I’d be great for this role. He was so right.

As soon as I started working for Media Arts Lab, an ad agency created solely for Apple, I knew I’d found my sweet spot. It was a leap of faith, effectively giving up being a lawyer (think of Business Affairs as a role where you’re bilingual in both legal speak and marketing speak) and putting your faith behind a company who at the time had an inconsistent reputation. It’s funny now that I remember asking in my interview how the company was doing as I didn’t want to be laid off again. Apple wasn’t what it is now!

What is it like working in Silicon Valley?

It’s been interesting working for these tech companies! I like to think back to when I was laid off and how desperate it all felt. If someone told me that it was all going to be all right, I got so mad - how did they know? Truth is, they didn’t, but then neither did I. I had no idea what was around the corner. I feel so lucky to have stumbled into this industry when I did. It’s changed my life in every way I could imagine.

The thing that goes alongside that though, is that it’s a tonne of hard work. To be honest my work-life balance was pretty awful for around a decade. Apple and Google have worked really hard to get to where they are, and they work really hard to stay there. It’s better now, but it’s been a sacrifice.

Tell us more about your move to Los Angeles?

I moved to LA because I needed a change of scenery and to challenge myself. At 30 I finally came out to my family the year before and it was a really difficult time. My boss in LA (who is a friend and mentor to me) recognised I needed a change, and thankfully she made it happen.

LA is a wonderful but tough city. It was a huge change but also honestly, I was working so much that I never really got too stuck in. I made wonderful friends through work who became my chosen family.

Now, 10 years later I’m lucky enough to call many places home - Los Angeles, the Bay Area, London, and Wolverhampton!

You’ve gone through a real journey of self-discovery.

Tell us how that felt?

I’ve always known - even before I had a word for it - that I was gay. I spent so many years trying to ignore it, bury it

and then hide it. It’s a terrible thing to live with shame and in fear like that from such a young age – it influences every decision you make. I threw myself into making myself as likeable as possible, to be as smart as possible, to be as kind as possible, to be as good at everything as possible so that when people found out I was gay I’d be able to say, ‘but I am all of those other things still - this is just one part of me!’. I was terrified of losing those I loved. Terrified. It created traits within me that I’m still working on correctingI’m such a people pleaser, even now.

That said, looking back I also now consider being gay a gift. From a very early age I learnt to be very open-minded, empathetic, and compassionate: all traits that are very important to me, and core to who I am.

A wonderful part of being gay is the community you find. There is such beauty in our community and there was such safety in it. For example, Jon Wood was only the second person I came out to! Ever! The unity you find within your community is so special and whilst I hope to live in a world where coming out and living in fear does not exist, I am so grateful for the community and allies I’ve found along the way.

That’s

fantastic. You also now have a baby girl, how are you finding parenthood?

I don’t think I was at all prepared for the overwhelming joy. It’s shameful to admit that I used to question when parents would say how great it was whilst I was headed to Palm Springs for the weekend to hang in a pool with a cocktail in my hand and no responsibilities! All I could see was the stress and the fatigue and the lack of freedom. The way I now look at my life before and after becoming a parent is I feel like I was playing a video game, and I was doing well at it. And then I went through a door, and it took me to a level I didn’t know existed. This level is way harder than the previous level was, but the prizes are just so much greater. For me, parenthood is without hesitation, the greatest, purest joy of my life.

Did you enjoy your time at school?

I was always one of those people who really enjoyed school. I was very aware of how lucky we were to be offered so much, and how hard my parents

were working for me to go to WGS, so I deliberately tried to get involved in everything to get the most out of my time there. I played a lot of sports (netball, football, hockey, tennis, cricket) which took up a lot of my time. I also was in choir and helped with the lighting for school plays. I was on the Student Council all the years I was at WGS, and eventually was the first female Chair of Student Council. All of this led to me being chosen for Head Girl, which to this day stands out as one of my proudest achievements. I was acutely aware that I was the first person of colour to be Head Girl at WGS. In a lot of ways this helped me realise the potential of positive representation. It’s such a powerful thing to be seen.

I was acutely aware that I was the first person of colour to be Head Girl at WGS. In a lot of ways this helped me realise the potential of positive representation.

Through being so active at school I made friends for life. It’s hard keeping in touch with everyone especially since moving to America but Instagram and Facebook keeps us connected. My year certainly still has plenty of banter. I look back at our time so fondly – from our Bugsy Malone summer production through to our legendary Leavers’ Dinner. We also all still erupt whenever Me’sha Bryan is on TV!

Who were your inspirational teachers?

Mr Benfield was a great teacher to me. He was my form tutor when I first got to WGS, was my English teacher most years, and then was the Head of Sixth Form. Long story short, I decided to change from Medicine to Law after I had already been accepted to study Medicine at uni. This required quite the compelling letter to UCAS and universities to backtrack on my first personal statement!

Mr Benfield coached me through the whole thing – from navigating the UCAS process, to handling my parents (who weren’t pleased with this u-turn!) and then helping me write and re-write a letter to UCAS. I simply could not have

been successful without him. Those actions and that support literally helped change the trajectory of my life.

There are some other teachers I must mention: Dr Trafford, Miss Pearson, Mrs Millard, Miss Treanor, Mrs Griffiths – they treated me with a kindness and a respect beyond my years. I think they could see the adults we were striving to become, and, at least for me, went out of their way to support that growth in numerous ways.

Finally, what advice would you give to your younger self?

i) Do things because you want to do them, not because others want you to, or because it’s what you think you should do.

ii) You can’t hide from yourself – what makes you happy, what interests you, what you don’t like, what motivates you, what challenges you. Wherever you can, lean into what makes you happy.

iii) And if I was able to talk to 18-yearold Trish – buy Apple and Google stock!

Trisha, Head Girl 2000-2001

Old Wulfrunians around the world

Our community of Old Wulfrunians now spans 29 countries outside of the UK! We have enjoyed creating a lovely visual representation of the WGS community around the world (see inside). We have included a brief update from some of our OWs on how they ended up on the other side of the globe. Furthermore, on the following pages of this magazine you will be able to read more news from other OWs who are based overseas.

Don’t forget to sign up on the Old Wulfrunians online portal to update us with your current address and what you are doing – we are sure there are still many OWs both at home and overseas that we have yet to hear from and we would love to fnd out more!

Join your online community

This map shows a representation of OWs closer to home. Open up to see the spread of OWs further afield!

Americas

Paul Taylor (OW 1993)

San Antonio,Texas, USA

Paul has lived in the USA since 1996 and moved to San Antonio, Texas in 2013. Paul met his wife whilst studying at Oxford University. She was on an overseas placement from the University of Texas. After graduating they both moved to the US and have been happily married for 27 years. Paul is currently Principal Director of Research & Strategic Insights at BravoEcho Inc.

Whilst he clearly has found a home on the other side of the world, Paul keeps his roots close to heart:

“The more you experience the world, the more you understand the things most important about who you are and where you came from. WGS and Aston Villa are part of me. I’m a third generation Villa fan, and I follow them more intensely now I’m 5,000 miles away than I ever did growing up!”

Alan Walker (OW 1981)

Naples, Florida, USA

Alan moved to the States for the opportunity to work for a larger company and experience a different culture. He spent six years in Chicago, Illinois, before moving to Naples one year ago. He currently enjoys the independence of running his own business: Alan Walker LLC.

Ian Bremner (OW 1955)

Houston, Texas, USA

Ian moved abroad with a scholarship for the MBA programme at Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana. Now retired, Ian has lived in the US for 58 years, 46 of those in Texas. He is proud of obtaining a flying scholarship and his private pilot’s licence while in the RAF section of the CCF at School. Ian remembers the late Tony Stocks as one of his most inspirational teachers.

Dave Roberts (OW 1992)

San Antonio, Texas, USA

Dave was working as an IT contractor when he was posted to San Antonio 20 years ago. He met his wife and after three years became an employee at USSA, where he still works as a Lead Software Engineer.

Gary Jones (OW 1979)

Tsawwassen, Canada

At the age of 38 years, Gary seized the opportunity to work abroad and teach at university. He is currently Program Manager: Industry and Development at the BC Greenhouse Growers’ Association. Gary remembers the late Mr Brian Hopton with fondness and in particular a field trip to Wales. “After exploring the intertidal zone at the beach and collecting a decent stash of interesting samples, unfortunately, one of us (I’m not mentioning who it was) accidentally opened the back doors of the minibus, causing most of the samples, including a number of very live crabs, to pour out over the road on the way back to the hostel. It must have been quite the surprise to the cars following. We were certainly surprised at the extent of Mr Hopton’s vocabulary!”

Duncan Botwood (OW 1990)

Toronto, Canada

Africa

Andy Walford (OW 1997)

Cape Town, South Africa

Andy’s wife is South African and so he had visited Cape Town many times as a tourist over the years. Back in 2014 they were living in London with two young children and started to daydream about moving out to Cape Town as a family. What originally was planned as a two-year trial, is still on-going nine years later! Andy enjoys being his own boss and runs his own business, Oceanrock Consulting.

Europe

Paul Balian (OW 2007)

Paris, France

Paul is an Engineering Leader for EDF and moved overseas 25 years ago.

Peter Cox (OW 1976) Graz, Austria

Works as a Level Design Director at Netease and has lived overseas for 11 years.

Patrick Hiron (OW 1955)

Montreal, Canada

Patrick has been living in Canada, on and off since 1974. He originally moved to Canada on a two-year project to build a new polyester fibre plant for Dupont but never returned to the UK. A two-year consultancy for Sonatrach, the Algerian state oil company followed, consultancy for the Abu Dubai State Oil Company and eight years with the World Bank in Washington DC, before retiring.

Peter moved to the home country of his late mother and has been there since 1996. Now retired, his working life was spent in the engineering and manufacturing industry following a Natural Sciences and Engineering degree at the University of Cambridge.

Xavier Lewis (OW 1978)

Brussels, Belgium

Xavier studied at the University of Paris as part of his degree in English and French Law. He moved abroad to take up a job at the European Commission and is now retired. Xavier remembers with a smile, the nicknames he and his friends gave to their teachers: Bernie Brandon, Mambo aka Bruce Sherdley, Penguin aka John Manfield to name but three…

Asia

Julian Meachem (OW 1980)

Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Julian has been living and working in Uzbekistan for the last year. He joined the British School of Tashkent as a teacher of Geography, following his degree in Geography at UCW Aberystwyth.

Ian Powell (OW 1981)

Tokyo, Japan

Ian has been living abroad for 33 years, mainly in Japan but also in Hong Kong and Singapore. After qualifying as a Chartered Accountant in London he moved to work in Japan.

“I remember being lucky enough to go on various overseas school trips in the late 1970s to Greece, Italy and Austria. I think these experiences developed my interest to want to go to live and work abroad later on.”

James Nepaulsingh (OW 1998)

Tokyo, Japan

James got the travel bug after taking a gap year during which he taught English to Tibetan monks in the Himalayas. A graduate of Oxford University, James is currently Senior Legal Counsel at Mitsui & Co.

Mark Stacey (OW 1993)

Hong Kong

Mark’s time on the Japan Exchange Teaching Programme (JET) after university, whetted his appetite to return to Asia one day. This became possible with a move into teaching. His first foray was closer to home in Brussels, after which, the family knew that they could explore opportunities further afield and find the lifestyle they were seeking. The quality of the schools in Hong Kong, along with the travel opportunities made it an ideal option when a suitable role came up. Mark is Head of Sixth Form at Kellett School, a British International Co-educational school. Mark is grateful to his teacher Malcolm Saxon who made him fall in love with History and want to teach it.

Keith Morrison (OW 1967)

Macau, China

Keith moved to Macao 24 years ago to be with his Chinese wife. He is currently Vice-rector of Research at the University of Saint Joseph where he enjoys supervising students and research projects.

John Tranter (OW 1976)

Bangkok, Thailand

John has been living in Thailand for the last 25 years and is a retired Assistant Principal of the British International School in Bangkok. John recalls the time he was sitting his O Level Biology exam. Earlier that morning he and his peers had seen the lab technicans digging holes on the far side of Moreton’s Piece and wondered what they were doing. As the exam began, they were to discover the reason. Each student was given a live work and a jar of oil of cloves and had to do an experiment measuring the worms’ reaction to the irritant. As you can imagine by the end of the exam there were wriggling, writhing worms everywhere!

Oceania

Neil Taylor (OW 1987)

Melbourne, Australia

Neil is Managing Director and Chief Executive of RACV. His first overseas job was as a graduate for BP in Japan in 1990. Neil moved to Australia in 1994 and stayed for a couple more years before moving to Brussels, London, Dubai, and then returning to Australia, settling in Melbourne, which he now would call home. Neil says he owes a debt to his Head, Mr Hutton, who encouraged him to stay on for A Levels and learn a good life lesson, “If you don’t turn up and do the work you will fail.”

Howard Cole (OW 1961)

Sydney, Australia

Howard says moving to Australia 49 years ago was the best decision he ever made. Retired now for 21 years, Howard tutored HSC (Australian A Levels) Maths for many years. He remembers his time under Headmaster Warren Derry and the punishment of writing out The Rime of the Ancient Mariner; all 143 verses, as penance for a rather monstrous snowball fight at lunchtime.

Shonali Ellwood, née Pluck (OW 1997) Wellington, New Zealand

Shon is a Finance Business Partner at Maritime New Zealand. She says despite living in New Zealand for the last 16 years, Wolverhampton will always be home. Visiting the UK she recently enjoyed taking her eldest son to the Molineux to see Wolves’ victory against Chelsea.

Recalling many fond memories, one stands out and that was Shon’s last day at WGS. A few of the Upper Sixth ended up taping Head Boy, Andy Walford, to one of the pillars outside the Sixth Form Centre with brown packaging tape. She reports that he was a good sport and took it all in good spirits!

Andrew Flavell (OW 2000)

Perth, Australia

Andrew works as a HASS Teacher at Comet Bay College, having moved abroad 12 years ago. He remembers cricket practice at WGS and often being in the lowest scoring pair meaning that he had carry the equipment back to the sports hall. However, on one occasion, he mishit and scored a six, sending the ball hurtling into a stream! Mr Page told the classmate who had dived out of the way to avoid being hit that he had to retrieve the ball and on that occasion he and his partner were tasked with carrying all the equipment! Andrew says, “I didn’t receive any congratulations (none were deserved) and that one shot represented most of the runs I ever made.”

Badhoevedorp, The Netherlands

Andrew, known as Brodie at School, was one of 16 students in the Class of ’61 headed for Oxbridge. After his first degree at Cambridge and an MSc and PhD at UEA, Norwich, Andrew spent several years of research in chemical physics in Japan, Italy and Turkey. Now retired, Andrew settled in Amsterdam in 1974, working as an Acquisitions Editor and later Publisher for Elsevier Science, an English language publishing company.

A former Head Boy, Andrew recalls an impromptu moment when he had to fill in for a missing prefect who was due to read the lesson in assembly. Having no idea what lesson had been chosen, he stepped up to the lectern, opened the huge bible and randomly chose something to read. It was only Mr Rust who later queried whether he had chosen the wrong lesson!

Celebrating our global

Andrew Brodie Dempster (OW 1961)

OW community

Creating a Music Festival in Rural Japan

by Miles Lawrence (OW 2009)

Since graduating, Miles has worked in radio, print journalism, film, private education, and the charity sector. His career path has taken him from the UK to Hawaii, Saudi Arabia, Poland, and to his current home, Japan. Miles is now pursuing a career in music, his main lifelong passion, and using his interests and skills in event management and music technology to create a new type of music festival fusing traditional Japanese music with modern Western influences. Miles shares with us his progress to date:

It was the second day of ishinoko, the music festival I’ve been organising in the rural Japanese village of Takigahara. I found myself stumbling through a muddy field in traditional wooden ‘geta’ sandals, dragonflies buzzing overhead, as I led my young friends Ryosuke and Nanase to a stone circle for their wedding. They had asked me to be the ‘shinpu-san’, or priest, and marry them in an unconventional ceremony, attended by the festival-goers. It was yet another surreal moment in my ever stranger journey through Japan, one that started with an Oxford University drama tour in 2014 and has led to me living in a small farming village, organising a music festival, as a member of a community of young people experimenting with future lifestyles and farming.

I moved to Takigahara, Ishikawa Prefecture in 2020 just after the pandemic started. Tired of Tokyo life I had begun searching for a new countryside home. I was invited to join the Takigahara Farm Project by its founder, Japanese design guru

Teruo Kurosaki, and found an oasis of freedom amidst the beautiful renovated old Japanese farmhouses, including an organic farm, guesthouse and cafe. Over the following months, I found the perfect location for what would become ishinoko, and realised that I might here be able to achieve my dream of starting my own music festival in rural Japan.

ishinoko blends a traditional countryside community ‘matsuri’ festival, which mark the seasons and significant cultural and religious events, with the highest quality of Japanese and international music performances, arts, and food culture. We’ve won grants from the government,

bringing our first overseas acts to join a variety of Japan-based talent, ranging from electronic performances and DJ sets to traditional Japanese taiko drumming and young pop and folk performers, all played through a worldclass Funktion One sound system. Our patchwork community of local elderly Japanese, young people from the cities, and foreigners such as myself, all pitch in and are joined by a crew of professionals who have toured with the likes of Ryuichi Sakamoto and the British band Underworld.

We’re looking forward to our fifth ishinoko in September. Whether for the festival, or just a visit to Takigahara Farm, our doors are open to the WGS family any time.

Email: contact@ishinoko.jp

Old Wulfrunians in America

It was a pleasure to welcome back Dr Robin Cooper (OW 1956) to WGS in December. Robin is the founder and president of the Old Wulfrunians in America. He lives in Indianapolis, Indiana, where he runs his own business Cooper Consulting Group. A Chemistry graduate of Imperial College London,

The Bennett Story Garden

The transatlantic Discover Reading Project in conjunction with Dr Stephen Hegedus (OW 1991) and Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) has successfully moved into its second year with a new group of families ready to discover a love of reading. In March 2023, it was wonderful to welcome Stephen and one of his Graduate Reading Programme Coordinators, Professor Louise Shaw, from SCSU. Louise met families and supported children during an interactive workshop themed around ‘Paddington’s Easter Egg Hunt’.

As an extension of the reading project, The Bennett Story Garden was opened in September. It was created in memory of our much-loved Director of Marketing and Communications, Carrie Bennett, who sadly lost her battle to cancer in December 2022. The garden contains signage with links to audio excerpts from children’s books and will also incorporate stories written by the children themselves in the future. The idea of a literary garden has appealed to our colleagues across the Atlantic

and Mrs Rowley is busy introducing the concept which we hope will be rolled out to schools across the UK and in the States. In partnership with Professor Shaw we have successfully submitted a proposal to jointly present work linked to The Bennett Story Garden at the UKLA Conference in Brighton.

We continue to fundraise for further enhancements to the Garden. If OWs would like to support please visit: www.justgiving.com/page/ the-bennett-story-garden

Robin has always followed the subject with a keen interest and kept abreast of the science at WGS. Robin met with Head of Department, Dr Ryan Pounder, on his recent visit and discussed the Chemistry curriculum and ways in which Robin might support the department with funding for specialist equipment.

North American Scholarship

Having had the pleasure of reconnecting at the OW Reunion in New York in October 2022, Stephen Hegedus (OW 1991), Nigel Blower (OW 1982) and Nathan Owen (OW 1991) decided to explore the possibility of creating a new, means-tested scholarship in the name of the North American Old Wulfrunians, to enable a deserving young person to join the Sixth Form at WGS. Together with the Development Office, their ambition is to gather financial support from OWs across the USA and Canada to fund the award at a cost of around $39,000 over two years. The three have already kindly made their pledges but are seeking further expressions of interest, on the understanding that commitments of any scale will be most welcome. Please contact development@wgs-sch.net if you would like to know more.

SAVE THE DATE

We are looking to hold a second US reunion. Please contact development@wgs-sch.net if you are interested in joining us!

From Bucket List to Finish Line:

Ian proves anything is possible in the Sahara

In our last edition we celebrated Ian Gilham, (OW 1978), making history as a member of the first ever GB Age-Group Team to be crowned World Mixed Relay Champions at the 2022 World Triathlon Spring & Relay Championships in Montreal.

Last year, Ian, who loves a challenge, pushed himself to the limits and completed an ultramarathon under the toughest of conditions. Billed as ‘the toughest foot race on Earth’, the Marathon des Sables is staged each year in the Sahara Desert. This incredible race is both physically and mentally draining. The task: six days of running over 250 kilometres across endless dunes, salt flats and rocky terrain, often in blistering heat conditions. We congratulate Ian on successfully completing this gruelling event as he shares his experience with us:

“After many years on my bucket list, I finally managed to secure a place for the 37th running of the Marathon des Sables in April last year. Assembling at Gatwick with the other UK-based competitors, we were flown into a military airfield deep in the Sahara for a couple of nights acclimatisation before starting the race on the morning of 23 April.

With the race being ‘self-supported’

competitors have to personally carry everything they need for the six days including food, cooking equipment, sleeping bag and first aid kit. Days 1, 2 and 3 were marathon distance days with a double marathon on day 4. Day 5 was a rest day before the final full marathon on day 6 to complete the event.

Having got my water intake badly wrong on day 1, I ended the day with heat stroke. Strong sandstorms that evening, along with a competitor being taken seriously ill in an adjoining tent, had me wondering if I had what it takes to complete the race, and wondering what on earth I was doing there. Day 2, however, was another day and I was able to crack on completing days 2 and 3 unscathed.

Day 4, at 90km, was a much bigger challenge. After setting off at 7am, by 1am the following morning I still had 30km to go and was feeling pretty exhausted. Regrouping I managed to eat, grab a few hours sleep and finish the stage by midday on day 5.

With the race being ‘selfsupported’ competitors have to personally carry everything they need for the six days including food, cooking equipment, sleeping bag and first aid kit.

The heat had been a major challenge all week; the average dropout rate is usually around 10% but this year more than 30% of starters were unable to finish due to extreme heat.

The final day was marred by strong winds and temperatures exceeding 44 degrees in the shade. The heat had been a major challenge all week; the average dropout rate is usually around 10% but this year more than 30% of starters were unable to finish due to extreme heat.

Day 6 felt particularly brutal with many competitors needing medical assistance. I was doing fine until the 30km mark at which point I was struggling really badly with a high core temperature and dehydration. Somehow, I managed to keep shuffling forward finishing the 250km in a total combined time of 62 hours.

What an event! I was very pleased I did it and competed the event in some of the toughest conditions in all the 37 years’ history of the race. Done that, got the t-shirt, never going back… probably…”

A word from the Development Office

Although relatively new in this post, it is clear to see how strong our OW community is; I also see this as a parent of an OW myself. I hope the launch of our OW platform has helped you feel connected to us and your fellow OWs. There have been over 1100 registrations so far. If you have not yet registered, then can I urge you to visit www.oldwulfrunians.wgs.org.uk. It’s a great way to reconnect with peers, catch up on School news and sign up for events and reunions

As I write my first Wulfrunian entry, I start by thanking those OWs who shared their thoughts in the recent survey about the content of the magazine. Your responses told us the format and content are well received; with the write ups and photo galleries of events and reunions unanimously voted of most interest. Unsurprisingly!

2023 saw more changes of staff for the Development Team: Tina Erskine retired in April 2023, having led the Development Team for over four years. I would like to thank Tina for her commitment and hard work and I’m sure you will join me in wishing Tina well in her retirement. We also said goodbye to Sarah Fellows and wish her well in her new role at Wightwick School.

For me, and my first two terms in the role, it has been so interesting to meet many OWs and share their experience of returning to WGS. My first reunion event was the Classes of 1973, 1983 and 1993 reunions. Other highlights include hosting the second 1512 Society lunch and the C2C 25th Anniversary reunion. You can read more about these later in the magazine.

Another highlight has been the support by OWs for our Careers Programme. In

2023 the involvement of our OWs has grown significantly. Along with our usual HE/Careers Day, new career events have included a specific focus on Engineering as well as Apprenticeships. Hearing from OWs really does inspire our students.

Looking ahead to 2024, along with our usual calendar of OW events, we hope you will be interested in some new ones too: our OW ‘Drop-in and Chat’, the Drama Reunion, and a planned OW Northern Reunion. 2024 will also see momentum build for our next fundraising campaign to mark WGS being located on the Compton Road site for 150 years; and we shall be developing a new Careers networking page on the OW Platform.

Aside of specific campaigns though, many OWs, staff and parents continue to make regular donations each year to our Bursary Fund. Collectively, through their generosity, we support students with bursaries; scholarships for transition to university; and extracurricular activities such as DofE and school trips.

You will be able to read more about the students who have benefitted from this support as part of our 150 year campaign

literature: to hear personally from students how they feel about being given the opportunity of a WGS education and how it has shaped and changed the direction of their lives. If you were a student on an assisted place or Bursary and would like to share your story, then please get in touch with Julie or me.

Whether you have returned to WGS for a general visit, attended a specific reunion or sports event, have been involved in our careers offer, donated, or simply just kept abreast of the many news articles that are shared, my sincere thanks to you all for your continued support of our WGS community.

Enjoy reading your Wulfrunian!

Best wishes

Caroline

OW Drop-in and Chat

OWs are invited to pop in for coffee and a catch up on a Friday morning. Why not call in for a chat, a tour of the School and to meet Nic Anderson, Head? We hope you can join us for one of our future dates, including Friday 24 May 2024. There will be two arrival times: 11am or 1pm. Further details are on the OW portal, where you can also register to attend.

It was a pleasure to welcome back OWs to School for our first Friday Drop-in on 17 November. Thank you, David Armer (OW 1961), Richard Brown (OW 1963), Martin Bennett and Clive Morley (OWs 1972) for visiting and sharing your memories from your time at School. A named car parking space and entering Big School via the front steps is always something special for returning OWs!

Northern Reunion

The Development Team are heading north!

We are keen to establish a Northern Reunion within our annual events calendar.

On the 19 April, we hope our OWs living ‘up north’ will join current and former staff members including: Theo King, Heidi and Simon Hinchcliffe, and the Head, Nic Anderson.

Nic Anderson joined the OWs for a coffee and all enjoyed looking through items from the archives, including production programmes, Old Wulfrunian magazines and the 4th Wolverhampton Scouts logbooks.

Thank you for everything.

My visit was magical.

It was very interesting to hear the mischievous tales and shenanigans during the tour, with one OW referring to his frequent visits to the headmaster’s office! The contrast between what WGS was

like 50+ years ago to school today was palpable, with conversations about the relationships between students and staff, the facilities on offer and Saturday school.

The visit culminated with lunch in The Derry with current students and staff.

If you are interested in meeting up simply register your interest via the Events tab on the portal: oldwulfrunians. wgs.org.uk/events

The first drink will be on us!

Careers Page on OW Platform

Our community has OWs working in all kinds of professional occupations and, as such, provides a rich resource for current WGS students and OWs alike, to explore for advice, career insights and possible work experience. Along with opportunities to create new professional work collaborations.

We hope that this new careers feature will provide a platform exclusively dedicated to helping students and

Join your online community

OWs explore career ideas to make better informed career decisions.

Areas we are looking to develop include: Mentoring, Work Experience, Professional Networking Events and Professional Networking Groups. But we hope that our OWs will wish to suggest other ideas that could be incorporated.

If you would like to discuss an idea with us, please do contact Julie or Caroline.

Your support really can change lives

How you can help:

Offer work experience or internships

Share your story by giving a careers talk

Become a student mentor

Gift memorabilia to the archives

Volunteer as an ambassador for a reunion

Make a donation to the Bursary Fund

Remember WGS in your will

Dates for your Diary

We are delighted to be able to share a full calendar of events for 2024 and look forward to seeing many OWs both in School and further afield in the year ahead!

Photography Exhibition

Saturday 16 March

Reunion Weekend

Class of 2004 and 2014

Saturday 23 March

OWA Dinner

Saturday 13 April

Northern Reunion

Friday 19 April

OW Drop-in and Chat

Friday 24 May

London Reunion

Thursday 6 June

Class Reunions: 1954, 1964, 1974, 1984 and 1994

Saturday 15 June

OW Cricket & Rounders Festival

Sunday 30 June

1512 Society Lunch

Saturday 6 July

OWTCC v WGS Cricket Match

Wednesday 10 July

Former Staff Lunch

Friday 2 August

OW Sports Festival: Golf and Hockey

Friday 6 September

OW Sports Festival: Fives, Football and Netball

Saturday 7 September

OW Drop-in and Chat

Friday 27 September

OW Drop-in and Chat

Friday 15 November

Class of 2024 Festive Drinks and Further Maths Reunion

Monday 16 December

Looking further ahead:

• Could you contribute to an OW drama

• Do you have fond memories of chess?

•

you have any other ideas for events?

If so, do please get in touch, we would love to hear from you!

Looking ahead to our 150 Year Celebrations

Did you know that WGS moved onto its current Compton Road site on 15 October 1875?

Due to growing pupil numbers, a new site for the school had to be found. A competition was held to come up with a bespoke new build and the designs were published in various publications including TheBuilder on 26 April 1873.

Our Archivist, Chris O’Brien, recently found drawings which showed the proposed design of the school building but the wrong way round! Rather baffled, Chris decided to investigate further. He found a note in the Board Minutes where the design for the building was approved but with the proviso that the actual build was to be the mirror image of the original design. As you can see on the pictured drawings, the original design did indeed place Big School on the opposite side of the main reception.

You will all be familiar with the splendid stained glass window at the end of Big School. Completed in 1946, many students over the past 78 years will have gazed in awe at this spectacular window which is now synonymous with Big School. This was made possible, along with the First World War and Second World War Memorials in Big School; and the purchase of the Old Wulfrunian playing fields at Castlecroft, thanks to the generosity of Gerald Mander, a former governor and Chairman (1934-1951) of Wolverhampton Grammar School. Quite aptly, the Development Office is located in the Gerald Mander room; named in honour of his commitment and work for WGS.

curriculum, WGS offers extra-curricular activities which enhance school life to provide opportunities for students to excel and thrive. However, for many talented students, our school fees are beyond their families reach.

In the early history of the School, there was Government support with assisted places that enabled many students to attend WGS who would otherwise not have been able to. However, this funding ceased in the early 1990s. As OWs you will all know the benefit of a WGS education – it transforms the lives of students. Along with a strong academic

A key priority in the School’s Strategic Plan is to increase our bursary provision. The launch of a new fundraising campaign seems a fitting way to mark the milestone of WGS being on Compton Road for 150 years. In celebrating 150 years of people at WGS, we would like to provide future bursaries and opportunities for a WGS education through to 2030, 2040 and beyond.

WGS as a school has changed significantly over the years: however, what has remained a constant throughout our long history is the philanthropy and fundraising amongst students, parents, staff and Directors; both present and past. During the 1990s we had the ‘Sharing the Vision’ appeal; there was the 500th Anniversary appeal

in 2012; and more recently we launched the 2020 Emergency Appeal Fund in response to the COVID pandemic.

The 150 Year Fundraising Campaign will raise money through telephone campaigns and an inaugural ‘Giving Day’ for the 150-Year Bursary Award Fund, to enhance the bursary provision for deserving students. We also wish to

have a permanent physical memorial to mark this special anniversary.

Further details will follow during 2024, with the focus of our fundraising activity taking place between September 2024 and October 2025.

Two key dates you may wish to make a note of in your diaries are:

• A wider ‘welcome back’ OW Reunion on Friday 20 June 2025 – to be held in Wolverhampton at the Molineux in place of the London Reunion.

• A 150 Year Celebration Ball – to be held at WGS on Saturday 6 September 2025 after the annual Sports Festival.

Please do not hesitate get in touch if you would like to be more involved with the planning, if you have any great fundraising ideas or you would like to make an early donation.

Soaring High:

The sky’s the limit for fast jet pilot Tom

Tom Wasserman (OW 2017) readily admits he wasn’t a model student at school but without a doubt he says, “I wouldn’t be where I am now without WGS.” It was the individual support from staff that gave Tom the self-belief to achieve his amazing career path to date. A far cry from the average desk job, Tom’s journey has taken him to dizzying heights – literally!

It all began as a young boy when Tom first joined the Air Cadets whilst still studying at WGS. His grandad used to take him to the air shows at RAF Cosford and joining the Air Cadets ignited his interest in fast jet training.

Tom remembers his first flight as an Air Cadet and being allowed to steer the plane left and right, but he knew he wanted to do much more. Watching the black hawks take off in a threeship formation was the catalyst for his ensuing career in the Royal Air Force and a job that most of us can only dream about.

It was just before his GCSEs that Tom recalls sitting down with the Head of English and being asked to list his

‘dream job’. It was the first time he had really considered the future and he wrote “I want to fly the Tornado GR4.” It seemed unachievable at the time and Tom had no idea how to achieve his dream, but a chance conversation in Freshers’ Week brought him one step closer.

Approaching the University Air Squadron (UAS) stand during Freshers’ Week at Birmingham City University, Tom learnt that they were recruiting for the RAF Reserves. He applied and successfully sailed through the interview process. The UAS gave him instant flying opportunities and from his first flight learning loops in a Tutor, Tom was hooked. It was 14 April 2018 that Tom

took his first solo flight and he hasn’t looked back since.

In conversation with Tom, we learnt about the RAF’s lengthy and arduous selection process, certainly not for the faint-hearted. After a six-month delay due to Covid, Tom was soon in full training, learning about weapons handling, first aid, fundamentals of the military and more. Then followed weeks of theory, exercises in navigation, teamwork and leadership, written exams, report writing and office work. It was soon time for ‘Black Tuesday’, or ‘the tell’ as the trainee pilots call it. After 24 weeks of training, Tom was both relieved and delighted to pass first time round.

Before he could go flying again, Tom had to do six months on the ground. He ended up running a covid testing and vaccination site up in North Yorkshire and organised the military support for the NHS – a big job for a 22 year-old. All this experience built Tom as a person and he was ready for his next training on the Prefect. The RAF’s primary trainer, the Prefect, is a twin-seat turboprop plane and is the next step up with digital screens and more power. It is this training that then determines one’s ultimate pathway in the RAF. There are four streams: fast jets, rotary, multi-engine and RPAS (remotely powered aircraft system) and throughout training pilots are assessed for the role that they are thought to be most suited for. However, the pinnacle and most sought after stream is undoubtedly the Fast Jets.

The outcome of streaming is dependent on both skill and the needs of the RAF at the time. Tom received an initial knockback when he was selected for the multiengine stream, however, his place on the reserves shortlist meant he got a call back in December due to a re-streaming. Since then, Tom has qualified as a gliding instructor and matured as an aviator. He says that it has been a wonderful full circle experience to be now taking up young cadets and giving

them their first taste of flying. Back on Fast Jets training he is learning more technical and complicated skills. More stages will follow in faster jets and more advanced skills such as bombing runs and low level navigation, before the chance to gain his ‘Wings’ and become a fully qualified military pilot.

Tom’s ultimate goal is to be flying one of the Royal Air Force’s two main fighter planes, the Typhoon or the Lightning, F35 stealth jet, both of which operate with cutting edge technology. The dream is in sight but there is still a lot of hard graft ahead.

Tom reflects, “It’s still early days in my career but I will work my hardest to achieve my goal. I’ve never been the best at anything but I’ve found with the right application and a little bit of luck you can make it.

My advice to my younger self would be to try everything, find out what you enjoy and go and do it. This job is a lifestyle but it doesn’t define me. I just happen to be in a fortunate position, right time, right place, and I might be able to do some amazing things in the future.”

My advice to my younger self would be to try everything, find out what you enjoy and go and do it.

“If I can do it, you can do it.”

21-year-old Jordan Russell (OW 2020) updates us on her current role as a HITZ Study Tutor and how her WGS days have inspired her to give back and change lives.

In the same week as graduating Jordan was offered a full-time job in an area she really wanted to pursue – mentoring and teaching rolled into one, and encompassing rugby and rugby values. Her previous coaching experience with Gloucester-Hartpury helped her to secure this early start in her career. Jordan now works with students teaching Sport, Maths and English as part of HITZ - Gloucester Rugby Foundation’s award-winning education and employability programme, in partnership with Premiership Rugby and YMCA, for 16 to 19-year-olds who struggle in mainstream education.

Jordan’s enthusiasm for her job is infectious; she is already talking proudly of her students’ achievements and demonstrating a real passion for her role. As a young, female, mixed-race teacher she immediately connected with her students who looked up to her and were interested to learn from her. When they found out about her sporting achievements on top of this, it only grew this rapport further. Jordan is also helping to breakdown preconceptions about rugby as it is often seen as a sport for the more privileged, she wants to increase grass roots engagement and to spread the word about women’s rugby, making it a sport for all.

How did you feel about joining WGS?

“Sport was really limited at my primary school and I was the only mixed-race girl in my year. When I came to WGS one of the first people I saw was ‘Kingy’ (Mr King) and my face just lit up. I remember meeting Mrs Dyer who asked me if I was interested in sport but for me until then sport was more of a luxury so I wasn’t really sure. My previous sporting experience had consisted of Zumba in front of a video screen in the school hall! I was overwhelmed by all the sporting facilities at WGS but was soon introduced to hockey, netball and rounders for the first time.”

What about inspirational teachers?

“Mrs Dyer really understood me before I understood myself and helped me to get through school, keeping me on track. She became a role model for me and it started me thinking about a career in sport. She gave me a focus through sport but this helped me with my confidence academically, which wasn’t my strongest point. I later found out that I do have difficulty processing things but I was able to get the support I needed at WGS. Mr King was a role model for

me as the only black teacher at the time and it made me want to come back to Wolverhampton Grammar as a teacher one day.

I give up my lunch breaks now for my students because I remember Mr Anderson and Dr Bradley helping me with my Maths in Year 10 at breaktime. Dr O’Brien also gave me time outside of lessons; not everyone has that opportunity. I stand by the school offering ‘an education as individual as you are’ because that’s what really happened for me. Mrs Hills helped me to achieve an A in GCSE Biology! Tears were streaming down my face when I opened my results, I couldn’t believe it.”

Mrs Dyer really understood me before I understood myself and helped me to get through school, keeping me on track. She became a role model for me and it started me thinking about a career in sport.

Can you share a WGS memory?

“I was proud to be part of the Coast 2 Coast team especially as just 10 students got to take part. We ran for Adoption UK which is a cause very close to my heart. My own personal experience has been life-changing and has shaped the way I interact and understand my students. Being an individual experienced in ACEs (adverse childhood experiences), I found and looked for support from my mum. She has always pushed me to do my best and sought out the opportunity for me to join WGS and be the best I can be.”

What about life after School?

“Moving to Loughborough College to study a BTEC in Sports Science was a big change. After all the support I had received at School, it was much harder moving away from home at only 16 years of age and not having teachers like those at WGS. I went with the intention of playing netball but when I got there, I was told I was too short. I was heartbroken. That’s how I found rugby as I was determined to find something else and play elite sport. I was playing with other girls who had been playing for some years so I needed to train hard to improve my fitness and athleticism.

At the Hartpury University open day I met my now Head Coach, and I knew I wanted to go there. I knuckled down with my study during the pandemic and was offered a sports scholarship to play rugby. My ambition was to play for GloucesterHartpury by the time I finished university and I am happy to say I achieved this. I was part of Hartpury University’s BUCS National League winning side in 2022.

My dissertation was based on the barriers for females to elite sport. It’s getting easier with talent identification now but I wanted to write about something important to me. My coaching philosophy has changed: sport is for everyone, participation is key, you don’t have to be an elite athlete.”

What are your career aspirations?

“I never expected to be phoning my mum to tell her that I had got a full-time job in the same week that I graduated! I was coaching one day after graduating when I got chatting to a HITZ officer and when I told him I wanted to change lives but it needed to be something to do with sport because of being good at that, he put me forward for the job and I went for an interview.

Many people thought I was just sport mad and that because I was black that was all I could do, but I actually spoke quite candidly about this in my interview, how lucky I was to have this education and

now I want to be there for all my students in the foundation.

It gave me the chance to talk about my experiences and ambitions and these resonated with the aims of HITZ. Knowing that I was privileged with the support I had received during my time at WGS, I wanted to give back and give these young adults a second chance. I’m everything these kids want to be and I know I can reach them and change their lives. Beyond that I do want to come back to teach at WGS one day!”

We hope she does.

WGS Cricket Festival 2023

Cricketers and spectators were back on Moreton’s Piece for WGS’ Cricket Festival 2023 on Sunday 9 July. The weather was kind for the first two matches, but rain eventually stopped play and match three was abandoned.

This year’s event was even more poignant following the news that cricketer, Jon Mills, (OW 1987), had recently been diagnosed with terminal cancer. Jon had featured heavily in the media in the run up to our Cricket Festival, by scoring a century for Brookweald Cricket Club just days after his diagnosis. No century on this occasion but hitting many more runs than his fellow players, we were delighted that Jon was able to play again at WGS and with his family present to enjoy the day.

While Jon, Jim and David were with us one of our Lower Sixth student journalists, Dan Middlebrook, interviewed all three brothers for an article to include in the School’s student magazine, The Wulf. This is reproduced in full on the next page for you to enjoy.

Jonathan Mills:

The Old Wulfrunian Cancer Just Cannot Keep Down by Dan Middlebrook

It was back in 1915 that none other than P.G. Wodehouse coined the now famous saying, ‘You can’t keep a good man down’. Few others embody this more than OW Jonathan Mills.

Jonathan came to nationwide prominence this summer after scoring a century for Brookweald Cricket Club days after a terminal cancer diagnosis. His unbelievable score brought radio, television and newspaper interviews and captured the hearts of many in Britain. It also caught the eye of the President of the MCC, who happened to be the author, actor, screenwriter and celebrity Stephen Fry. He invited Jonathan to watch the first day of the Ashes’ test from the President’s box at Lord’s, the home of cricket.

At the OW cricket match in July, I was fortunate enough to interview not only Jonathan, but his older brother David and twin Jim. All three are OWs who left an indelible mark on WGS, with Jonathan and his twin Jim going on to have successful careers in the marketing world after leaving school in 1987. Now semi-retired David, who left school in 1981, was Arts and Leisure Managing Editor of The Sunday Times for many years. Interviewing the Mills brothers emphasises the importance of sport, school and the benefits of a positive, determined and hard-working attitude.

For the Mills brothers, cricket has always been an integral part of their lives at WGS and beyond. Indeed, when I first asked Jonathan what general skills he had obtained from school, he replied, “Well obviously I hit 110 runs, so cricket skills would be one!” He was not lying; his older brother David tells me his brothers “were huge sporting figures in the school”, with Jonathan and Jim both playing first team cricket at WGS, as well as football and rugby.

But it was not just at school where the brothers took up a passion for cricket, Jonathan says he is “still playing cricket on a regular basis, obviously as much as [he] can at the moment now”, while David jokes he “eventually stopped when [his] wife got fed up with [him] disappearing for most of the weekend!”. It is not just the playing of cricket that the brothers love, but it was clear to me how much they valued the world around it.

Jim makes an excellent point on the uniqueness of cricket: “it’s one of

the great sports where you get the opportunity to play, but also get the opportunity to sit around and learn, chat and catch-up with each other.” The importance of camaraderie was reiterated by Jonathan, who says it is important to have teammates “to pick you up when you’re down, and knock you down when you’re going up a bit too far – which some of them perhaps do of late (laughter)”. The importance of sport, particularly cricket, in building relationships was echoed by Jonathan and Jim, with Jim saying, “if you play sport at school, when you go out to university, you make friends easier”, and Jonathan telling me how “a [cricket] team gives you the banter and gives you the distraction”, from those things which you cannot control in life, which might be getting to you.

For the Mills family, and particularly the twins Jonathan and Jim, WGS facilitated their itch to play sport and develop as people outside of the classroom.

But the importance of education was not lost on them either. David believes “the most important years of your life are, probably, 8 to 18” and that he was “pushed intellectually” due to the “first-rate teaching”, a sentiment I am sure the whole WGS student body can attest to.

It was not just academia where they were pushed, the brothers’ likeable confidence was extracted from their experience of school. Jonathan tells me how school gave him “the confidence to go out into the big wide world and crack on”, and Jim jokes that “a lot of people would say one of the things the Mills don’t lack is self-confidence!” It was clear to me that confidence is not only a part of the Mills DNA, but it was fostered by WGS too.

Confidence itself was not the only character trait gleaned from their school days; it is clear that a positive, hardworking mentality was also acquired. “Resilience is something I got from my school days”, says David, a quality integral to his career in journalism. Jim reflects how at WGS, “you’re taught to be your own person”, and how his individuality, confidence and maturity set him in good stead for his career.

Having learnt about their experiences at WGS, I wanted to know what advice they would give to the students of today. David responded, “you have terrific opportunities put before you, particularly at a school like this, so you should make the most of them”, a message repeated by Jonathan, who tells us to “enjoy yourselves while you’re here; you’re very lucky to be here, and I certainly felt very lucky to be here”. It is clear to me how privileged the Mills family feel to have come to such an excellent school, and they tell us to take advantage of the incredible facilities, “first-rate” teaching and the world of “opportunities”.

Jim gives students an important message, and perhaps one parents and teachers would like to echo: “put your phone down!” He tells me how “there is life beyond your mobile phone; get some quality time with people without your

phone”, a piece of advice that goes far beyond WGS. But David’s advice struck a chord with me particularly: “never underestimate yourself… it’s never too late to turn it around as I discovered.” David had not reached his potential with his O Levels, but changed his mentality going into A Levels, earning 4 ‘A’s after he “realised how much fun studying could be.” Perhaps if we all put more time and effort into our studying, we would all reap the benefits like David did.

The Mills family are truly extraordinary. Jonathan’s grit, determination and ‘just get on with it’ attitude is not only reflected through his unthinkable cricket scores, but his ethos in everyday life. At the OW cricket match, I watched him smile, joke and chat with players and family alike, putting everybody at ease with his charismatic nature. His brothers were equally friendly. David chatted about history and my interest in journalism, while Jim was keen to ask me questions about my experience of school life and cricket skills (or lack thereof). The Mills have a shared passion for life and people that is thoroughly admirable.

But I do not believe these qualities to be solely thanks to the Mills DNA. I think our fantastic school played a part in shaping the thinking of these brothers, embedding and developing the natural qualities they possess.

We can look at Jonathan as an example of everything an OW should be: kind, driven, confident, intelligent and humorous too. He tells the student body to “enjoy it, get your head down and make the most of it,” a message I know applies to school life, and the wider world too. The challenges of cancer have not kept him down, and our struggles, big or small, should be taken head on like he has. With resilience, determination, passion and drive: nothing can keep you down! Life is out there for the taking, so make the most of it, like Jonathan has.

I wish Jonathan and his family all the best over the coming months.

Coast 2 Coast Celebrating 25 Challenges

On 8 July, representatives from the last 25 years of Coast 2 Coast came together to celebrate a WGS institution. It was wonderful to look back at the last quarter of a century. Display boards recorded the endeavours of the teams in running some of the steepest inclines in the country, all to raise money for charity, and a commemorative book was compiled and given as a souvenir to all participants. JJ was presented with his own C2C 25th anniversary top to mark his involvement with every event to date –a remarkable achievement.

Coast 2 Coast was introduced into the School’s sporting culture by Michelle Craig, a New Zealander and former member of staff who taught English and PE at WGS from 1998 to 2001. Michelle’s previous school in New Zealand used to run an annual 24-hour sponsored relay around a lake, and she knew WGS would be up for a challenge.

After a visit to St Bees Head and cycling across to Robin Hood’s Bay by road, Michelle suggested this as a possible route for a 24-hour C2C relay using eight runners. Bernard Trafford, the Head at the time, agreed and the first challenge took place with a group of Year 11 students in the Autumn term of 1999.

The first experience was to prove invaluable for future planning, learning how easy it was to take a wrong turn and just how much was involved

in planning and executing the C2C challenge. The introduction of satellite navigation has helped considerably and is a far cry from the paper road maps and head torches used in the early days! The route itself has evolved over time to its current 170-mile course, and the race moved to the summer months when the weather is kinder. The course previously covered up to 190 miles and went via Whitby. It is testament to the WGS spirit that 25 years on, this event is a firm favourite and still being enjoyed annually by students, staff and parents alike. Those who are lucky enough to take part often say it is one of the highlights of their WGS days.

We are extremely grateful to Michelle for introducing this memorable event to the WGS calendar and to former Head, Bernard Trafford, for supporting

the idea. We are proud that through their endeavours, an impressive 248 pairs of legs have crossed a total of 4,256 miles and raised over £100,000 for various charities.

Our very own JJ was on that first trip as an elected driver and has accompanied every Coast 2 Coast team since. He reflects, “Having had the privilege of being part of the 25 runnings of this unique event, it has been fascinating to watch it evolve. Most importantly what has impressed me the most is the sheer determination of our students to complete such a challenge. All 25 teams share the same WGS team ethic, looking after each other when the going gets tough, and not giving in until the job is done. By my reckoning we have run enough collective miles to reach the Bahamas (if there was a road to there of course)!”

1999… the very first C2C, 25 years ago. We chose the best runner to start the relay. His name was Stewart McEwan. He was briefed about the start and, after dipping our feet into the Irish Sea, he began the relay while the rest of us clambered back into the minibus. We then drove off to catch him up and couldn’t find him! After a slight panic, we eventually saw him running towards us, in completely the wrong direction, but at least the panic was over.

Tim Browning

“Congratulations to those who contributed so much over so many years. A school event to be truly proud of.”

Caroline Harris

“An essential part of young people’s education lies in being given opportunities to discover what they are capable of, and in surprising themselves with just what they can achieve. I’m quite sure that every participant in 25 years of C2C was obliged to dig deep, and find reserves of energy and resilience that they did not know they possessed.”

Bernard Trafford

“2020: COVID did not stop the C2C 2020 team. Some how the students kept motivated to train alone for a longer period of time. The actual event at Birches Valley was also special as more staff could support as it was held locally. “

Peter Hills

OWA Dinner

4 March 2023

We were all thrilled to see the return of the OWA dinner on Saturday 4 March. The 3-year break due to the pandemic made the return of our former students and friends this year even more special.

The delicious 4 course meal was provided courtesy of our school caterers, Holroyd Howe, before the formalities of the evening commenced. Firstly, Sir David Wright DCMG, LVO (OW 1963) proposed the Loyal Toast. Following this, we listened to a very moving speech from Sanjay Bhandari (OW 1986) with his message: ‘Be Curious, Be Brave, Be Respectful’. Curiosity, bravery, and respect are qualities which Sanjay feels WGS instilled in him whilst a student. Sanjay talked of how these things have served him well through his life so far. The then Head, Alex Frazer, responded with an update about the School and thanked Tina Erskine, our retiring Director of Development for her dedicated service.

After dinner, friendships were rekindled and new relationships built within our wonderful community. Before the evening was done, we were even serenaded on the piano by the wonderful talented composer and musician, Matt Katz (OW 1989).

There are too many people to thank individually, but we would like to give a special mention to the OWA committee for their support in allowing us to host this event at School once again.

OWA Dinner 2024 –Saturday 13 April

We are thrilled to announced that Rumina Önaç, (OW 2000), will be the guest speaker at the OWA Dinner in April 2024. Rumina is a GP, Sustainable Healthcare Advisor and Educator. Rumina remains connected with many friends from WGS and has visited the school several times in the last year.

“Compliments to your chef and his team for preparing such a wonderful meal”

“It was an inspired idea to use some of your pupils to serve us. They did an excellent job, with calm efficiency and good humour!”

“I don’t know why I keep coming back, there is something incredibly compelling about WGS, the OWA dinner is now a permanent fixture in my calendar!”

“We had great fun, but where did the time disappear to? We could have gone on for several more hours”

1973, 1983 and 1993 Reunion Weekend

On Saturday 1 April we welcomed OWs back to Big School from the Class of 1973, 1983 and 1993. There was an air of trepidation for some as they walked up the steps to Big School but a few hours of reminiscing with old friends brought back happy memories and left everyone feeling elated.

Thank you as always to Dr Chris O’Brien who facilitated an extensive display from the Archives which brought many wonderful memories flooding back, as did a tour of School and being back in the classrooms.

Our reunions are so rewarding when we see the impact of returning to school.

Our doors are always open and we look forward to welcoming you back to WGS.

We are currently organising an ‘All the 4s Reunion!’. If you left WGS in the summer

of 1954, 1964, 1974, 1984 or 1994, why not join us for a trip down memory lane on Saturday 15 June 2024? To book a place please visit the OW platform.

It really was enlightening to see how the school has progressed in the last 40 years, and great to wander around the buildings.

Today is a day I will cherish.

Thank you very much for arranging such a wonderful day for the old boys today. It was great to see some old faces and meet up with John Johnson again.

I would like to express my thanks for the 50th anniversary get-together. It was a delight from start to finish.

10 and 25-Year Reunions

A double dose reunion took place on Saturday 17 June when the Class of 2013 and Class of 1998 reunited in Big School for their 10-year and 25-year reunion respectively.

A great afternoon was had by all, full of laughter, catching up with old friends, reminiscing with former teachers and seeing how School had changed. Over 80 OWs and former staff happily meandered down memory lane, visiting old form rooms and favourite classrooms whilst sharing memories of good times. The buzz of excited conversation was apparent at each point on the tour.

A fine display of memorabilia was on show including first year photographs, sports teams, productions, school trips and much more. OWs enjoyed spotting themselves in photographs and remembering their school days.

A BBQ on Moreton’s Piece and an address from Nic Anderson concluded the event, although many OWs could be seen heading in the direction of a favourite local hostelry to continue their catch-up!

Calling Classes of 2004 and 2014

We warmly invite you back to meet up with peers and your old teachers to mark your 10-year and 20-year anniversary since leaving WGS. To find out more information about the reunion on Saturday 23 March 2024 please visit the online portal.

London Reunion 2023

Thursday 8 June

The Royal National Theatre on the South Bank of the Thames was the perfect venue for our London reunion in June.

Blessed with gorgeous sunshine, good company and wonderful views from the Buffini Chao Deck at the top of the National Theatre, over 80 OWs aged between 21 years and 85 years, enjoyed catching up, networking and growing friendships over drinks and light refreshments.

The London Reunion is now firmly back in the calendar after two sell out years and the next venue will be Harvey Nichols, Knightsbridge on Thursday 6 June 2024 at 6pm. To book your place, visit the OW portal or scan the qr code below.

Old Wulfrunians News

LEARNING MADE FUN!

Congratulations to Ben Ward (OW 2021), Co-Founder of StudyStash who was named Young Digital and Tech Professional of the Year 2023 at the Young Professionals Awards, hosted by Midlands Business Insider magazine. The event recognises and celebrates young business talent in a variety of sectors, ranging from finance to media and marketing.

StudyStash is an online learning platform that promises to make learning as fun as a game! Developed with cofounder Jonathan, the platform has over 30 gamification features which adapts notes into interactive, competitive and fun learning resources.

SHORTLISTED FOR AWARD

Congratulations to Sophie Warren (OW 2013) who was shortlisted as Trainee Solicitor of the Year 2023 at the Birmingham Law Society Legal Awards. Sophie studied a Law degree at Birmingham University and joined Shoosmiths as a Trainee Solicitor in September 2022. A year later she was made an Associate – Real Estate (Development and Investment). We wish Sophie well as she continues her career in the legal world.

MIDLANDS ENTREPRENEUR

Darcy Laceby (OW 2015) who featured in last year’s Wulfrunian is back in the spotlight after winning at The Great British Entrepreneur Awards. Darcy is Co-Founder of Absolute Collagen which is a powerful anti-ageing liquid collagen supplement that fights against the visible signs of ageing. At the award ceremony in November which is has been dubbed “the Grammys of Entrepreneurship’, Darcy was amongst 1,500 shortlisted winners and won the category of Equity-Backed Entrepreneur for the Midlands.

CHAMPIONING GENDER WEALTH EQUITY

Manjit Basi (OW 1990) innovated the original concept of gender wealth equity and is a thought leader for this overlooked and under-researched aspect of gender inequity.

In 2022, Manjit led a collaboration with the World Economic Forum (WEF) and WTW on a research piece relating to gender-based wealth inequity, the insights of which were released in WEF’s flagship Global Gender Gap Report 2022.

A passionate advocate for advancing global gender wealth equity which ultimately means achieving more equitable career outcomes for women through improved wealth accumulation at the end of their careers.

SHINING BRIGHT WITH ROYAL RECOGNITION

Congratulations to Tim Routledge (OW 1993) for his huge win at the Royal Television Society Awards in December for lighting the Eurovision Song Contest 2023. Tim was also nominated for the TPi Lighting

Manjit was voted Women in Pensions –Innovator of the Year 2023 for her creative thinking on this concept. Speaking of her win, she says, “As I absorb this news, in some moments I am thrilled and in other moments I feel humbled. Winning this award is a recognition that change is needed, and this topic is real. As I have conversed about gender wealth equity, I have seen how it resonates with different generations, countries, genders, and diversities.’

Designer of the Year for his work on Eurovision. Since graduating in 1996, Tim has worked on projects all over the globe and his lighting designer credits include the London New Year’s Eve Celebrations in 2023 and 2022.

SENIOR APPOINTMENT FOR ANDY

Congratulations to Andy Cooksley (OW 1988) on his promotion to Air Commodore and Assistant Chief of Staff Royal Air Force Digital in June 2023.

SABRINA EARNS A PLACE AMONG CULINARY ELITE

Sabrina Gidda (OW 2005) has become a member of the prestigious Royal Academy of Culinary Arts. Founded in 1980, the Academy is recognised as one of the UK’s leading professional associations of head chefs, pastry chefs, restaurant managers and quality suppliers.

Sabrina comments, “I am tremendously proud to have been asked to join The Royal Academy of Culinary Arts and its esteemed collection of fellows, academicians and industry greats. 16 years ago I started my career in hospitality – from pubs to contract catering, restaurants and now my own business. What a great and timely opportunity to continue ensuring we are holding the door open for everyone as we progress, to give back, encourage skill development, representation and help people to carve out rewarding careers in hospitality.”

NEW YEAR HONOURS

We were extremely proud to learn of the announcement in December that Sanjay Bhandari (OW 1986) was to be awarded an MBE in the 2024 New Year Honours. The award is for services as chairman of the anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out. Since heading up the charity in 2019, Sanjay has devoted many hours on a voluntary basis to tackling racism in football. Sanjay says he is proud of the progress made to date and that he hears fewer racist chants than 20 years ago. He feels that there is a growing confidence to ‘call out racism’ and less tolerance of discrimination but more work is still needed to tackle the problem.

FROM SCHOOL STAGE TO WEST END

Jason Battersby (OW 2018) continues to light up the West End and starred in the acclaimed musical comedy Crazy For You at the Gillian Lynne Theatre London in December. This large-scale production included 16 orchestra members and a 34 strong cast with Jason playing the role of Junior.

The cast also took to the stage during the Royal Variety Performance, performing in the presence of TRH The Prince and Princess of Wales and TRH The Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel of Sweden.

“Being there was quite surreal and performing in such an iconic venue was definitely a bucket list moment careerwise. The craziest thing is suddenly being thrust into that environment filled with people who you grew up watching on the TV and just passing them backstage before your performance. Certainly, the largest audience I’ve ever performed to at around 4,000 and you could really feel it after the applause. It really goes without saying that without the help of Mr Tyler, Mr Wood, and Mr Payne of the Drama department, I don’t think I would have ever found myself in this position,” says Jason.

We wish Jason well in his next production which will see him star in the world premiere of Just For One Day at the Old Victoria Theatre, London. The new musical by John O’Farrell tells the story of the 1985 fundraising concert Live Aid, which saw 70 artists across London and Philadelphia perform for free, raising $127 million for charity. The musical features songs by Bob Dylan, David Bowie, The Who, U2, Queen, The Police, Elton John, Paul McCartney, The Pretenders, and more.

ST ANDREWS SPORTS SCHOLARSHIP

We are delighted to share the news that Joshua Harris (OW 2022) was recognised and awarded a Sports Scholarship from St Andrews University in September. As a Sports Scholar, Josh will be supported by the University, access performance training facilities and coaching, and represent St Andrew’s in Triathlon and cyclocross. We wish Josh all the best for his competitions in 2024. Josh is currently in the second year of his four-year Earth Science and Geography integrated Master’s Degree at St Andrews.

Josh says: “I am excited to do my sport full-time at the university, working with the scientists and coaches to see how far I can push. I am thankful to WGS; without Coast 2 Coast, I wouldn’t be doing the sport I do now.”

MEMORIES OF WICKETS

After reading the article ‘The Final Blow of the Whistle’ in Wulfrunian 2022, Tony Threlfall (OW 1960) was inspired to get in touch with us all the way from Australia, to share his reflections on his life as a cricket umpire.

After umpiring in a local competition for several years, in 1999, Tony transferred to a schools’ competition known as the Darlot Cup. Seven schools played a twoinnings match on Friday afternoons and all-day Saturday.

In his time as a cricket umpire, Tony has umpired many schoolboys who have gone on to play first class and

international cricket, including Shaun and Mitchell Marsh and Cameron Green. He also officiated alongside former Surrey and England fast bowler, Peter Loader, and Don Weser, who was one of the umpires in the infamous O.D.I. underarm bowling incident in 1981.

Tony says, “I now mainly umpire 2nd XI games, which are 50 over games on a Saturday - more suitable for one of my advanced years! Last term, I umpired two games with a colleague where our combined ages were 161!”

We were pleased to find in our Wulfrunian 1960 archive, a report

on Tony in the ‘1st XI Cricketing Personalities’ and a record of Tony’s debut for the WGS 1st XI was on Saturday 4 June 1960. (pictured).

Old Wulfrunians Memories

Mark Andrews (OW 1975) shares his memories of a life-changing 10-week stay in West Germany:

At the age of 16 my German teacher, John Manfield, encouraged me to apply for the possibility of going to school in West Germany for 10 weeks. He had a vision that through learning languages we would co-operate more with each other and that the world would be a better place as a result. He told me that it would broaden my mind and open me up to new ideas. It certainly did that.

From the classroom every day I would look out on a salt mountain, everyone used to talk about it but no-one seemed to go anywhere near it. It was at least 200 metres high, sometimes it shimmered white in the spring sunlight and looked like a huge white horse

ready to be mounted. It was called the “kaliberg” or Monte Kali as it was affectionately known by the locals. Sometimes it felt like being watched over by a big white monster, but a friendly one.

The salt was a by-product of the potash that was mined there. I’d never heard of potash before and having got the worst possible grades in Chemistry and Physics at school in my O Levels the previous year and still lacking some of the most basic German, attempts to describe it to me fell on deaf ears. I later discovered that it was a fertiliser.

The other significant landmark was right next to Monte Kali. Two years after the wall in Berlin was built in 1961, a tower was built in Bodesruh. From the top you could see miles into GDR territory. At the foot of the tower there was a map of the old pre-World War II Germany, which was later to be partly dismantled, removing the parts that now belong to Poland and the Soviet Union. Growing up in Wolverhampton, there was no real awareness of frontiers being moved or anger at having lost territories in the past. I didn’t know families who had been divided by borders but I had become aware of how borders can often poison personal relationships and make people suspicious of and anxious about travel.

The day I went up Bodesruh tower nobody was there to watch me in the way that the world watched when J F Kennedy spoke from the balcony

The limits of my language mean the limits of my world.

Ludwig Wittgenstein

of the Schöneberg town hall in West Berlin eleven years earlier. I knew nothing about the meetings in Yalta and Potsdam that led to the division of Europe but I did wonder, as I was peering into the dense forest on the other side of the border from the top, how different life might be in Thuringia and whether I would go there one day.

Barbed wire fences cut through the trees and fields and marked the border between East and West. The families I was staying with were both well-off. Both made it clear to me that whatever was over the other side was backward and poor and not part of their world any more. East Germany was not a part of my families’ world any more but somehow, after peering over what some people called the ‘Iron Curtain‘ that day, it had become part of mine.

For a young guy, just turned 17, that landmark was as important as anything

Celebrating his 17th birthday in Germany

Mark takes his 10-year-old son Ronan to Germany every year and is teaching him German

that I had seen in my time so far. As well as it piquing my curiosity, it also somehow bothered me. Life had begun at 17 and I was determined to make the best of it and part of that was to find out what I had seen ‘over there’ from the top of the tower.

Nobody wanted to talk much about the division of Germany and were too busy getting on with ‘the economic miracle’. However, there was one event, while I was in West Germany, which sparked some political discussion about the division of Germany. That was Jürgen Sparwasser’s winning goal for East Germany against West Germany in Hamburg on 22 June. In fact Sparwasser is still hailed as a hero for that goal by some people in the GDR, despite defecting to the West in 1988. It was the only time that West Germany ever played East Germany at football and I watched the match in bed with crutches at my side, a mere 5 kilometres from the border I had been to have a look at just a few days before.

I returned to England a day before the World Cup final. Mum and Dad had come down to London to pick me up, it was the longest I’d ever been away from home and I hadn’t even told them about my motorbike accident for fear of worrying them too much. I was looking forward to watching Germany play the Netherlands the next day, after spending so much time there I didn’t feel the same kind of resentment many English people still had towards Germany and was kind of hoping that they would win.

I guess that was one of the reasons my German teacher had wanted me to visit. Like me he had grown up in Wolverhampton and after working in his father’s butcher’s shop, he ended up travelling around the world, refereeing important matches, broadening his horizons and getting to know places outside the West Midlands.

The salt mountain is still there today. I haven’t seen it since but seeing that border dividing up Germany, watching

that Germany v Germany football match and spending my 17th birthday in West Germany, must have made a strong impression on me. I wanted to know more about the division of Europe, and I ended up studying Eastern European Studies at Bradford University and lived in four of the countries that found themselves immediately within the Soviet sphere of influence after 1945: East Germany (GDR), Czechoslovakia, Yugoslavia and Hungary.

It was a teacher at WGS who set me on my journey and which now, at the age of 66, I’m still on, wondering where it will take me next. Nearly 50 years later, I find myself working as a teacher trainer, based in Central Europe in Budapest, living in a flat overlooking the Danube. Now I’m doing the same thing as John Manfield did with me – finding ways of opening up students to new places, new ideas and getting them to see the importance of appreciating the diversity of our beautiful planet and making sure that we can continue to live together on it peacefully.

Former Staff Retirees Lunch

It was great to see some new faces at the Former Staff Lunch in The Derry on Friday 4 August. No matter what part of the WGS community you belong to, a warm welcome is always ready!

Former staff spanning six decades came together for a catch up and BBQ on Moreton’s Piece and included colleagues who joined WGS in the 1960s and the most recent retiree from Summer 2021. A number chose to take a tour around their old place of work to see how WGS has changed since they left and to look at their old teaching rooms.

All former members of staff are welcome to visit WGS for a coffee anytime or join us for a specific event or reunion. If you would like to visit, please do get in touch.

The next Former Staff Lunch will be held on Friday 2 August 2024.

Eton Fives Report

By Sid Simmons (OW 1993)

The Wulfrunians’ 2022/23 season has been a largely successful one with a healthy attendance at the regular Wednesday evening sessions underpinning the core of the team’s competitiveness and fitness levels.

This year’s EFA Trophy saw the first opportunity in many years for us to be able to field from all available players due to the lifting of an ineligibility rule due to previous successes in the Alan Barber Cup. For the qualifying round we managed to field eight players - regular EFA Trophy participants Andy (OW 1979) and Tom Husselbee (OW 2013), Dave Jones (OW 1992), Mark Yates (OW 1992), Greg Hammond (OW 1990) and Sid Simmons, plus debutants to this tournament Rob Pye (OW 2016) and 1992 Kinnaird Cup winner Gary Baker (OW 1982). The luxury of having eight players is very handy on a long, tough day of Fives as rests were possible and most definitely required!

Qualification for Finals Day was secured but only after an unfortunate ankle injury for Gary Baker in his first match, but he and Greg still managed to pull through to win!

On Finals Day, Chris Austin (OW 1993) returned from injury to join Andy, Tom, Dave, Mark and Sid for a tricky morning semi-final against Oxford University. At second pair, Dave and Andy dominated proceedings in a routine 3-0 win. Mark and Tom at third pair managed to come through a tight match 3-1 after losing the first game. Chris and Sid at first pair lost the first 2 games to fellow Old Wulfrunian, Ben Hart (OW 2013), and his partner, before managing to claw back the next

two games. Mercifully, a fifth set wasn’t required due to the other two matches having concluded and so a concession of this pair was the order of the day. The afternoon’s Final pitted us against the Old Salopians who proved to be too strong in all three pairs and were deserved winners.

Ben Hart again this season proved to be the busiest Wulfrunian by successfully helping Oxford University defend their Varsity crown and as Oxford 2 in the Universities Tournament got to the final only to lose to the very strong Oxford Varsity first pair. He also partnered Sid for his first go in the Kinnaird Qualifiers enjoying a good first round win before going out in the second round after meeting the eventual winners.

The Veteran’s Tournament this year saw Andy Husselbee partner the legendary Tony Walters in a small but very strong Over 60s section. Sid and Chris had another tilt at the Open title but went down 15-13 in a tight final.

As mentioned earlier, our Wednesday sessions in Wolverhampton have been well attended by the regular cohort but we hope to get more of the other local players down more regularly over the coming season. It’s particularly pleasing to see Rob Pye (Cambridge), Ben Hart (Oxford) and Chris Austin (Aldenham) continuing their exploits and development away from the Wolverhampton fives scene.

Finally, a huge thank you to all players for a great season and to Mark and Greg for their organisational support and everything they do for the club.

Don’t forget Fives is still very much part of our annual Sports Festival. If you are interested in joining us this year on Saturday 7 September, please do get in touch!

Old Wulfrunians Sports Festival 2023

The Sports Festival is a permanent annual fixture in the School calendar and for well over two decades it has attracted large numbers of OWs and former staff back to School.

The OW Golf Day on Friday 8 September saw the largest turn out on the hottest day and the toughest course! What a wonderful way to open this year’s Sports Festival. All OWs did amazingly well to go the distance in the heat and to make it back to the club house before the sun went down!

This year’s tournament saw a new award presented in true recognition of the support David, Jim and Jon Mills have given to this tournament over the years. Jim has been the driving force every year in organising and growing the event to what it has become today. It is no mean feat organising such tournaments, especially this year, when at very short notice, Jim had to find a different club that could host 60+ keen golfers.

Congratulations to this year’s notable players:

Mills’ Golf Tournament Trophy Chris Ball (OW 2001)

Longest drive John Cutler (OW 1994)

Nearest the pin – 7th Richard Logan (OW 1998)

Nearest the pin – 9th Trace Norton (OW 1982)

Nearest the pin – 11th Karl Smith (OW 1985)

Nearest the pin – 16th Will Pitt (OW 2001)

For further information about next year’s OW Golf Day, please contact Jim Mills (OW 1985) by email: jim.mills@leaas.co.uk

SAVE THE DATE: Friday 6 September 2024

OWs, current staff and students came together for a competitive game of hockey on Friday evening. Gazebos were moved down to the Valley to offer some respite for our spectators, whilst our players took to the Astro as the sun continued to beat down.

It really was a great day for Hockey as earlier we had the pleasure of welcoming back professional hockey player Nick Bandurak (OW 2011) to give a masterclass to current students. We are hoping Nick can make the Sports Festival next year.

This year we were delighted to add a new trophy in recognition of Glyn Thomas (OW 1959). Glyn has been involved in WGS hockey since he joined the School back in 1952 and continues to play in goal at the Sports Festival.

The Glyn Thomas Hockey Trophy was awarded to the player of the match and the inaugural winner was Poppy Nabbs (OW 2017). Congratulations Poppy!

The scorching weather continued into the weekend as OWs gathered for the Saturday events. How refreshing to be worrying about sun rays instead of rain for a change!

The day saw competitive matches played on the fives courts, netball courts and football pitch followed by a BBQ on Moreton’s Piece. This year’s festival was even more special as JJ embarks on his 50th year at WGS, with WGS 1st XI from 1984 reuniting on the pitch to mark this very special accolade. The WGS community came together to celebrate and give thanks to JJ and Tim Browning for all that they had done during their time at School, and of

course on the football pitch. There was also a celebration for Kathy Dyer who marked a special birthday by playing hockey, netball and football with OWs and current students and staff.

This year’s event saw three new trophies awarded to recognise and remember OWs who are very dear to our School community: the Husselbee Fives Trophy in recognition of Andy Husselbee’s (OW 1979) commitment to Fives; the Adam Cuthbert Memorial Trophy for Goal of the Tournament; and the Lauren Dennis Memorial Netball Trophy.

Congratulations to our winners: Fives

• The Husselbee Fives Trophy –Toby Grainger (OW 2020)

Football

• Winning Football Team 2023 –Current Staff & Students

• Player of the Football FinalUpper Sixth student, Tom Hathaway

• Players of the Tournament –The whole squad of 1984, accepted by Karl Smith (OW 1985)

• Adam Cuthbert Memorial Trophy for Goal of the Tournament –Ethan Lewis (OW 2021)

Netball

• Winning Netball Team 2023 –  Team of 2017

• Lauren Dennis Memorial Netball Trophy - Kathy Dyer

Our OW Sports Festival 2024 is already on the calendar so make sure you save the date: Saturday 7 September 2024

News from the Archives

STEPHEN JENYNS

6 May 2023 was the 500th anniversary of the death of Sir Stephen Jenyns. It was also Coronation Day. As a result, the crystal sceptre of the City of London, carried by Jenyns at the coronation of King Henry VIII (who knighted him during the proceedings), made a rare appearance in the hands of the then Lord Mayor in the procession into Westminster Abbey.

An account of the life of Sir Stephen can now be found online or a printed copy can be requested from the Development Office.

Research for this account led to some new discoveries about early headmasters. Mander’s History records the existence of Devey, a master before 1550, and then moves on to Henry Raby, in office by 1569. It is now known that Master Devey (probably William Devey)

GLASS PLATE

This image of the School is dated 25 July 1936. It has a curious history. Reg Brindley (OW 1966 – 1973) as a Library Prefect, was helping to clear the library store cupboard – under the stairs which go up to Rooms 41/42. It contained bound volumes of Punch (many of which are still in the present library) and loose copies of The Listener, which were being thrown away. Reg found the glass plate bearing this image amongst these and saved it from the same

died in 1526, when news of his death was carried to John Nechells in London by Richard Evans of Wolverhampton. It is possible that he was the first master. His brother, Thomas Devey, rode to London from Oxford, hoping to secure the post, but Nechells sent Evans to Cambridge in search of a replacement and Thomas Day was appointed. His period of office was short; in May 1529, he is described as ‘sometime

schoolmaster at Wolverhampton’ and was given a gift by Nechells to mark the singing of his first mass. Presumably he had secured a church appointment.

Another source shows that Henry Raby took office in 1560 and that his predecessor was John Ellershaw. Ellershaw was still alive in 1560 and must have moved elsewhere. It is most unlikely that he had held the post from 1529 to 1560, so there is still a gap to fill.

fate. He returned it to the archives this year, with some prints that he had had made. A copy appears in the 1936 prospectus, for which it was presumably taken, but the photographer’s name is not given.

This 1936 photograph is one of a number of interesting items to be added to the archives this year, thanks to donations from OWs. Recent effort has concentrated on cataloguing photographs and documents relating to the buildings on the Compton

Road site, in preparation for the 150th anniversary of the move from John Street in 2025. Toby Grainger (OW 2020) has been giving valuable help with this work. Does anyone know when the stonework along the edge of the roof of Big School (visible in the image above) was replaced with brick?

STAINED GLASS

The main window in Big School, a replacement for an earlier and simpler version, has its origins in 1933/34, when the central group of shields was installed. We have a series of letters from Gerald Mander to Warren Derry on this subject, including one which is dated ‘Vigil of Derby’.

Initially a mystifying reference, it appears from the dating of the other letters in May and June 1933 that this letter was written on 30 May – the Derby was run on 31 May that year!

Another letter in the sequence refers to this drawing of one of the wreaths in the window below the shields. The drawing is by the firm of James Powell & Sons (Whitefriars) Ltd, suggesting that they may have been responsible for the window.

The upper section of the window, showing the founder holding a model of the School and presenting the deeds to

the first headmaster, with Wulfrunians through the ages looking on, was installed in 1945/46 and is illustrated on the back of the 1945 Prizegiving programme. The cost seems to have been borne largely by Mander (then Chairman of the Governors) and Col. S.J. Thompson (OW). There is little doubt that Mander was also a major contributor to the first part of the window.

Apart from the clue provided by the drawing, we have no direct evidence that Whitefriars were responsible for the window. Lists of their work are available

online but there is no reference to anything in Wolverhampton in 1933/34. There is a five-light window (which this is) in Wolverhampton in 1945, but the published list does not mention the School. Information about this would be most welcome.

Gerald Mander contributed largely to many projects at the School during his time as a governor. His portrait, which many will remember seeing in Big School, is now hanging near the room which bears his name – a room, originally a dormitory, which was fitted out as a masters’ (all were male then!) common room at his expense in 1939.

Thank you to Dr Chris O’Brien for this fascinating report.

Old Wulfrunians Visits

We are extremely lucky to have such an enthusiastic and caring community of Old Wulfrunians. Whether an informal drop-in or to take part in activities with current students, it is rare that a week passes without a visit from a former student or member of staff.

One of our first visits of the year was from James Millichamp (OW 2019). Jamie visited The Viner Gallery to share his experience of Zine creation and his interest in animation. Current students enjoyed creating their own Zine with Jamie’s guidance and learning more about animation.

The word Zine (like MagaZINE) has evolved to represent self-published, noncommercial magazine-like or comic-like publications. Artists and organisations publish Zines to cover a variety of topics from art and social issues to personal thoughts. Their content can be written, drawn, printed, or collaged and usually combines words and imagery.

Jamie graduated with a first degree honours in Graphic Design in June 2023 and is now working as an interdisciplinary graphic designer with interests in zine culture, 2D animation and game design.

Miss Bowater was delighted to welcome two more OWs to inspire the next generation of artists.

Sam Wootton (OW 2017), is a London based visual artist and creator, specialising in oil painting of both contemporary and classical nature. Sam has recently amassed around 20 million views painting for Gucci, and says his practice lies both in the art itself and in the documentation of his processes for TikTok. Sam talked to Year 10 and Lower Sixth art students about pursuing a career in the Creative Industries. He was able to share his journey and experience so far, showcasing the importance of following your dreams and staying true to your creative self.

Darren Evans (OW 1989) has always been passionate about art and in particular painting. It all started when he was gifted a set of watercolour paints at the age of 10 years old and he drew and painted incessantly from that point. For a long time his day job got in the way of his passion, he studied Architecture at Cambridge but subsequently started a career in banking. Over the last few years he has dedicated a lot more time to painting and is now a very successful artist.

CREATIVE CAREERS

Andrew Brewerton (OW 1976) was pleased to reconnect when he was approached by the Development team to help with our Creative Careers Month. Andrew is Professor Emeritus at Arts University Plymouth, where he served as Principal and Chief Executive from 2010 until his retirement in 2021. A former Principal of Dartington College of Arts, and Dean of Art & Design and Professor of Glass at the University of Wolverhampton, Andrew is an English graduate of Cambridge University and from 1984 worked for a decade in glass crystal manufacturing, for 5 years in production at Stuart Crystal and then as Head of Design and Development at Dartington Crystal. He has held international academic appointments at the Università dell’Aquila, Italy, as Distinguished Professor at Shanghai Academy of Fine Arts, and as Visiting Professor at the School of Fine Arts at Nanjing Normal University.

Andrew has served on numerous national bodies including the National Council of Arts Council England and the Creative Industry Federation’s UK Advisory Council and therefore has a strong understanding of the territory that students today will be stepping into if they are pursuing a career in art today. Returning for the first time since the 70s, we were delighted that Andrew could share his wealth of experience with current students.

Me’sha Bryan (OW 2001) also took part in our Creative Careers Month and shared her experience as a professional singer, songwriter, actress and vocal coach.

A part in The Arabian Nights’ production whilst at WGS sowed the seed for acting and she has gone from strength to strength ever since. During her visit, Me’sha took the opportunity to call in to the Music Department and the Hutton Theatre, meeting up with her former teachers Rachel Munson, Ian Tyler and classmate Jon Wood.

We wish Me’sha well in her new role as Dr Watson in a new rock musical Sherlock Holmes and the Poison Wood, adapted from Sir Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes stories. Sadly Me’sha won’t be able to attend our Drama Reunion this year as she will be live on stage –how fitting!

Jonathan Badyal (OW 2007) came back to School to talk to students about his incredibly inspiring career journey in the Creative Industry. From working for the Department for Culture, Media and Sport and campaigning to protect the Grime industry, to becoming Director of Communications at Universal Music UK. Jonathan’s main advice for our students was “to be proactive and stay true to yourself”.

Our sincere thanks also go to Josh Foster (OW 2013) for sharing his career path with budding architects and to Therese Ward (OW 1999) for inspiring students with a talk about her own fashion business. What a wealth of OW support we have had for our first Creative Careers Month – thank you!

A GREENER FUTURE

Many of our OWs are following Green Careers. A rapidly developing sector, it is fortunate that we can call upon the expertise of our OWs to provide further insight to current students.

Miss Kailey was delighted to welcome back Rumina Önaç (OW 2000) and Tanyaradzwa Kasinganeti (OW 2017) to our Year 8 Aspire lessons to promote the theme of ‘a greener future’. Rumina is a GP and Climate and Sustainability Lead in North Yorkshire and is helping the NHS to reach its target of NET Zero by 2040. She led a very thoughtprovoking session discussing how the healthcare sector can be more environmentally sustainable.

Tanyaradzwa spoke to students about her work as an Analyst in the Energy Transition and Commodities team at Lloyds Banking Group. Tanyaradzwa’s

undergraduate degree was in Global Sustainable Development, and she was able to share her higher education and career journey so far, highlighting the paths into green careers and how her degree would equip someone wishing to work in this field.

Aran Batth (OW 2012) met with our Year 8 Aspire students and Sixth Form Mathematicians to talk about his career as a Data Scientist at the London Stock Exchange, and how his role contributes to sustainability and a greener future.

Ed Farley (OW 2014) also joined Year 8 Aspire students and two Geography classes to talk about his career journey from WGS, via the University of Sheffield, to National Grid. Ed spoke about the impact of climate change, and about the work his company is doing

PATHWAY TO OXBRIDGE

Katie Naylor (OW 2018) also joined us via Zoom on Wednesday 15 February to talk about her experiences at Oxford University where she studied Neuroscience. Wolverhampton Grammar School students were joined by fifteen students from Beacon Hill Academy in Sedgley for a day immersed in Oxbridge preparation

as part of a ‘Pathway to Oxbridge’ partnership programme created by WGS Head of Careers, Miss Kailey. Following her degree at Oxford, Katie is studying for a PhD in Population Health Science at Bristol where she will be researching bone health in people with Parkinson’s Disease. We look forward to following her progress.

around sustainability in their aim to be carbon neutral by 2035.

Also on a sustainability theme, we heard from Claudia Gilmour (OW 2008) about her work with the Canal and River Trust. Students learnt about the history and importance of the waterways from both a sustainability and wellbeing perspective. Thank you, Claudia, for your time and energy which inspired some fantastic questions from our Year 7 Wellbeing group.

A big thank you to Dherminder Kainth (OW 1990), from whom students learnt about the potential impact of climate change and global warming and how Dherminder uses mathematical modelling to research this crucial area. Thanks to the wonders of technology OWs can contribute to school life regardless of whether they can visit in person! Sally Murrall Smith (OW 1996) chatted to students via Zoom about her role as Managing Director at Totnes Renewable Energy Society and we are thrilled to hear that she has since launched the South West’s first Smart Local Energy System.

AN IMPROMPTU VISIT

Bob Meddings (OW 1958) dropped by on 2 March with his daughter Kathryn. Down from Ayr to visit Bob’s sister who lives locally, they were taking a walk in Bantock Park when Bob thought it would be a great idea to show Kathryn his old school!

They enjoyed a pleasant amble around the site, taking in Moreton’s Piece, the Fives courts (he has very happy memories of playing), and ending in Big School where Bob was delighted to show Kathryn the Scholarship Board with his name on it.

Ivor Wherton (OW 1945) and his son Richard (OW 1973) celebrated Ivor’s 95th birthday with a visit to WGS. They shared memories and snippets from the archives, over coffee and a magnificent chocolate cake (thanks to Jules and Holroyd Howe for this kind touch) before a tour of the Merridale building and Moreton’s Piece.

Ivor tells us that this morning was a wonderful treat. A highlight was seeing his form room which he hadn’t entered for over 75 years - the building was unchanged apart from the décor. The current students who were in the classroom at the time were amazed to hear Ivor’s stories of his time at WGS.

A highlight for Jules was sharing Ivor’s sports reports from the Wulfrunians of the 1940s. It felt a bit like a Parents’ Evening but the other way round with Richard there to hear about his father’s achievements! Many congratulations, Ivor, we really enjoyed celebrating your birthday with you. We do love these impromptu visits – our doors are always open!

BAKING A DIFFERENCE

Chef, Hospitality Consultant and Author, Sabrina Gidda (OW 2005) came back to School on Red Nose Day and helped our WGS Charity Ambassadors raise money for Comic Relief and Pancreatic Cancer UK. The latter being a cause close to Sabrina’s heart after sadly losing her mother, Sukey, to the illness in October 2021.

After beginning her career in Fashion PR & Marketing, Sabrina’s focus soon turned to food, where she found her passion. She has since appeared on our TV screens in shows such as the BBC’s Great British Menu and Celebrity Masterchef, had her recipes feature in The Sunday Times and Olive Magazine, and published her debut cookbook, Modern South Asian Kitchen

Our WGS Charity Ambassadors were keen to plan an event that incorporated

Sabrina’s passion for food and lots of fun ensued with a House Cupcake Decorating Competition. Big School was filled with 800 cupcakes, kindly baked by School Caterers, Holroyd Howe, and Sabrina judged the entries as well as expertly piping hundreds of cakes herself. A fantastic £1,000 was raised for Pancreatic Cancer UK and match-funded by the Freddie Green & Family Charitable Foundation to make a real difference.

HELPING THE NEXT GENERATION OF WULFRUNIANS

OWs are a regular feature in current school life, making visits back to talk to current students and even to help us recruit prospective ones! This year we were joined by 15 OWs from the Class of 2021 and 2022 for our Sixth Form Open Evening and students in Year 10 plus visiting families were able to get a first-hand insight into the WGS Sixth Form experience, the subjects they studied, plus finding out more about the transition to university.

OWs from the Class of 2022 returned as judges for Year 8’s Science Fair. Big School was filled with imaginative and fascinating science projects including “Which food do dogs prefer?” and “The perfect guide to jump high”. Thank you to Cian Gopal, Ella Bancroft, Morgan Lathbury-Cox and Tom Pearson, who were our expert judges.

FROM STUDENT TO GUEST OF HONOUR

It was a pleasure to welcome Alex Vergopoulos (OW 1990) as our Guest of Honour at Prizegiving this year. Alex studied at WGS from 1984 to 1990, although his links to the School go right back to his grandfather, Major Jervis, who was a pupil in the early 1920s and went on to be a founder member of the Old Wulfrunians Association. Alex and his peer group had the distinction of being in the first cohort nationally to take GCSEs rather than O-levels in 1988. Notwithstanding, he had been persuaded by Mrs Chris Preston to sit O-level Maths a year early in 1987, sparking off a dual enthusiasm for Maths and Modern Languages which lasted for the rest of his school career and beyond. Mrs Preston, who was present on the night, was one of the many WGS teachers that Alex remembers for their profound effect on his education. Indeed Alex’s speech was heart-warming for all to hear as he spoke about the affection he holds for our wonderful School and the foundation it has given him for life. Alex read Maths at King’s College, London, followed by postgraduate study in Actuarial Science at City University. Though he could have been tempted by a career in the City,

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his love of hands-on business brought him back to the Midlands to work in his family’s manufacturing company. Whilst serving an apprenticeship at his father’s right hand, Alex diversified his own interests into property, developing a broad business acumen that saw him assume control of the family firm after five years. He has gone on to acquire a portfolio of other businesses over the years and to invest in a number of early-stage ventures. Recently Alex has joined a number of OWs in giving back to the School in the form of support for the WGS bursarial fund. His generosity has funded extra-curricular trips for students attending WGS who would otherwise not have been able to participate. We thank Alex for presenting the prizes and speaking at Prizegiving and for his continued support of the School.

Miss Kailey, Head of Careers, is keen to hear from OWs who are able to share their career journey in person or online, offer workplace visits, work experience opportunities, or even post-18 apprenticeships. Please do get in contact via email: development@wgs-sch.net and we will put you in touch.

PASSPORT TO THE WORLD

International travel is clearly one of the fantastic benefits of a career in engineering as students found out when OWs returned to WGS to share their experiences of working in the field of engineering. Most of our returning OWs were employed by global companies which had led them to opportunities to work with teams in other countries, as well as visiting overseas branches. There was high praise for university courses offering a year in industry, as not only does it give real-world experience, but it also offers an early insight into the many different engineering roles available.

Mitchell Porter-Keel (OW 2018) is currently studying his second master’s degree sponsored by his university whilst working for them as a technician. He shared that Harper Adams University arranges industrial placements for 100% of its students and advised those attending to consider this as one of the key elements that they might look for when choosing an engineering degree course. Anna Herritty (OW 2018) and Fran Hopson (OW 2016) were both Arkwright Scholars during their time at WGS, which meant that they had an early experience in industry, giving them a head start in their careers. Anna has returned to Worcester Bosch with whom she was partnered by the Arkwright programme, and she is now a product engineer for HIUs working with a team in Germany.

Our six returning OWs were able to speak from a diverse background in engineering as well as share the perspective of being a female in what is still quite a heavily male-dominated workplace. Anna says of her experience that although her degree course was a fairly even split of 60:40, she is still only one of three females in a team of

50 engineers. Nevertheless, she sees this as an opportunity rather than a disadvantage. Anna was full of praise for the warm welcome and respect given to her by her colleagues and loves her career in engineering.

37 WGS GCSE and A Level D&T students were joined by 40 Year 11 students from St Edmund’s School and 13 Year 10s from Beacon Hill Academy for the event which was organised by Head of Design & Technology, Simon O’Malley. Many thanks to Jon Crawford (OW 2014), Fran Hopson (OW 2016), Holly Langston (OW 2017) Anna Herritty, Mike Hopson and Mitchell Porter-Keel (OWs 2018), who shared their journey from studying a variety of different A Level subject combinations and degrees to their current career in engineering.

SHARING DEGREE APPRENTICESHIP EXPERIENCES

Our students’ interest in apprenticeships has been growing year on year and in November Miss Kailey organised our inaugural Apprenticeships Information Evening, attended by over 100 students and parents.

Among our speakers, we were delighted to include two OWs. Jemima Cooke (OW 2018) who was amongst the first WGS students to complete a degree apprenticeship, and Ben Ward (OW 2021) who is currently at the beginning of his degree apprenticeship journey with PwC, whilst studying at the University of Birmingham.

Later on, all enjoyed networking with apprenticeship providers in a multitude of sectors, including; Finance, Law, Real Estate, Armed

Forces, Engineering, IT and Tech. Huge thanks to all our industry partners who attended to share their apprenticeships expertise with our parents and students and to our OWs Jemima and Ben, who were also joined by Mike Round (OW 2006) currently at Abacus Wealth Services, Oliver Unitt (OW 2014) from Deloitte, and Max Rumble (OW 2017), currently at Savills.

As you will see by the growth in the number of pages covering OW visits in this edition we are blessed with regular interaction with our former students. They are too numerous to include everyone unfortunately, but we do hope that you will read these pages and get a flavour for how OWs are reconnecting with WGS and also giving back to current students.

Thank you to the following who also took the time to come and see us this year:

• Dave Cant (OW 1963) and Andy Husselbee (OW 1979) joined us for the return of WGS has got talent! The House Competition saw each House put forward two acts. From a voice and piano duet to a tap-dancing ninja turtle – an action-packed show was eventually won by Elianna Botchway with her elegant ballet dance.

• Entrepreneur, Luis Evitt (OW 2016) gave a talk to Sixth Form about his career path and ran individual sessions with a number of students.

• Simon Evans (OW 1981) emailed following reciept of a WGS birthday card. Like many of our OWs, Simon had not been back to school since he left in 1976, when he moved to a boarding school. He fondly remembers his years at WGS, and as a keen swimmer, particular the swim galas where he represented the School.

• 2023 was the first time Rev Neil Whitehouse (OW 1980) had been back to the UK since 2001. Revisiting WGS was an opportunity for Neil to ‘go back

to his roots’ and “the school [that] was so much part of [his] development” Along with meeting former Head, Alex Frazer, Neil also met with Jon Wood and discussed WGS’ EDI work with students and staff. On his tour of WGS, Neil was particularly impressed with the Hutton Theatre, and enjoyed the archive material we had found from his time here. We look forward to seeing Neil again in 2024, when he visits the UK for the publication of his new book.

• Joined by his daughter, David Emery (OW 1980) returned to WGS for the first time since leaving school. They enjoyed a tour of school and lunch in

the Derry. David supports a charity called ‘Speakers for Schools’ and contacted us whilst he was back in Wolverhampton visiting Highfields School to talk about his career. David is a TV Director and has worked on programmes including Downton Abbey

• At the beginning of September, Nick Bandurak (OW 2011) brought along his bronze Commonwealth medal and kindly gifted a signed England shirt to Mr Anderson. This is proudly on display in the Sports Hall. Students were able to benefit from a fantastic coaching session with Nick during his visit.

• Alex Vergopoulos, Manjit Basi and Emma Heath (neé Scarratt), all OWs 1990 called in to see fellow OW Nic Anderson in his new role as Head of WGS. Alex was able to meet up with two students whom he supported during the 2022/2023 academic year so that they could take part on the Duke of Edinburgh and Battlefields Trips. Alex was delighted to hear of their experiences, as well as their aspirations for the future.

• Sathnam Sanghera (OW 1995 ) returned to WGS on Friday, 6 October to talk to Year 8 students about his latest book, Stolen History. An acclaimed journalist and broadcaster, Sathnam’s first foray into children’s books offers a fresh look at the past, answering important questions about Britain’s imperial history. Sathnam’s interactive event was both informative and humorous, and all students in attendance, including those from Highfields, Pool Hayes Academy and St Peter’s, left curious to learn more about Britain’s imperial past.

• It was a busy day when Anthony Hassall (OW 1993) visited during our October Open Day. Coming back to WGS is one item on Anthony’s birthday bucket list and we are glad to have been able to help him cross this off! As Chief Executive of a NHS trust, Anthony was particularly interested in WGS’ Wellbeing programme.

• Thank you to Liv Roberts (OW 2022) who helped out in the Geography department at our Sixth Form Subject Options Evening.

• Tom Steele (OW 1964) was visiting the Midlands just before Christmas and decided to pop in and meet with Nic Anderson, in his new role as Head. Tom keeps in touch with WGS and attends our London Reunions. The last time he was back at WGS was in July for the 1512 Society Lunch.

• You may have seen Nick’s aerial view of WGS on social media on Founder’s Day in October. A keen pilot, Nick Clarke (OW 2005) visited WGS for a tour of the school and to chat with our Head of Careers about careers in aviation. We look forward to Nick’s input to inspire our students to consider career options in the aviation sector.

Old Wulfrunians Book Releases

WHEN ALICE SLEEPS: TREASURE MAP

Barry Chan (OW 2000)

The idea for his first children’s book was inspired by watching his daughter… sleeping.

Baz would claim to be the same as any typical parent, full of stories of his newborn’s first babblings, and he was fascinated by everything his daughter did, particularly when she dozed off for her obligatory midday nap. “How could anyone sleep so much during the day?!”

The thought of her dreaming about her world through innocent eyes, with the kind of unfettered creativity that only children seem to possess, was the starting point of the When Alice Sleeps concept. Baz’s first children’s storybook was published in November 2023 and there are plans to release more in 2024. He also has a growing brand When Alice Sleeps with associated merchandise for children such as art prints, colouring and activity books, personalised t-shirts and much more!

Baz and his illustrator, Cindy Chung, love seeing children explore ideas and embrace creative thinking through stories and activities and want kids (and adults!) to have fun with When Alice Sleeps as it develops. Visit: www.whenalicesleeps.com to find out more.

SAVING A BIT OF OLD WOOD:

19 Victoria Street & 44 Queen Square, Wolverhampton

Anthony Perry (OW 1969)

Many towns and cities expanded and went through continuous redevelopment during the 19th and 20th centuries, and Wolverhampton was one of these, losing a lot of historic buildings. Fortunately, at the end of the 1970s, Wolverhampton Council stepped in to rescue and restore two town centre timber-framed buildings, bringing them back into use, to remind people of what was commonplace in earlier times. The stories of these two buildings are told in this book, along with the background story of Anthony who, as a Council surveyor, was happy to play his part in the rescue, and who is pleased to see them both continuing to play their important part in the life of Wolverhampton.

ARE YOU A PUBLISHED AUTHOR?

If you have released a published book, or are planning to do so this year, and would like to share news of it in Wulfrunian 2024, please email details to: development@wgs-sch.net

A HISTORY TEACHING TOOLBOX:

Omnibus Edition: Practical classroom strategies: 3

Russel Tarr (Former staff 1997-2005)

In his omnibus edition, Russel combines all the ideas in his first two volumes, plus more than 30 exclusive new strategies. It is the perfect handbook for both new and experienced classroom teachers and covers many tried and tested activities and approaches with topicspecific examples.

Russel says, “When I started work as a newly qualified History teacher at WGS in 1997, I was lucky enough to be part of a fantastic department headed by the legendary Russell Charlesworth. He was wonderfully supportive, but also gave me the space to teach whichever topics caught my interest, using whatever methods I wanted to experiment with. Combined with the fact that I was privileged to teach some amazing students, this meant that by the time I left for a new life and career in France in 2005, I already had quite a stash of strategies and resources to take with me, and these continued to build up in the years that followed.

Finally, after 20 years of teaching, I decided it was time to draw these all together in a handbook entitled A History Teaching Toolbox.”

Russel’s first volume was received so positively that it was followed shortly afterwards with a second volume. Volume three, the omnibus edition, was published in June 2022.

Essays in Modern World History is one of Russel’s earlier publications and is designed for teachers and students seeking a concise overview of some of the most interesting topics taught to the 16-18 age range. The 25 essays cover topics such as the causes and consequences of World War One; the Spanish Civil War and the Korean War; the rise of dictators such as Stalin, Franco and Castro; the rule of Lenin, Mao and Pinochet; the foreign policies of Hitler and Mussolini; Cold War crises and conflicts in Germany and Vietnam; and the success of various post-war US Presidents.

BEAN THE BEAR’S BON VOYAGE

Lauren Austin (Former staff 2017-2023)

Lauren left WGS at the end of the summer term after 7 years working in the Junior School. She left to pursue a career as an author and illustrator and we are delighted that a few months later she was publishing the first in her Bean the Bear series, completing the illustrations and prose in various coffee shops between Norway and Spain! Bean, a miniature grizzly, lives in a treehouse at the edge of a forest. He has a thirst for adventure and loves to travel the world, making friends wherever he goes. In his first book, Bon Voyage, Bean receives a phone call from his friend Marcel, a rooster who owns a bakery in Paris. Something mysterious has been left behind by a customer… Perfect for ages 4-7, the Bean the Bear series offers an exciting mix of mystery stories, foreign language learning, puzzles, recipes and facts. In each book, Bean learns the importance of bravery, selflessness, resilience, and friendship, all set within a world steeped with funny puns, engaging illustrations and adorable country-specific animals. Visit www.laurenaustinauthor.com for free printables and activities to accompany the story.

Class of 2023 Festive Drinks

It is always a pleasure to welcome back our youngest OWs for Festive Drinks in the Sixth Form Common Room. The Class of 2023 were joined by several current staff eager to hear how they have been getting on since leaving WGS in the summer. It was also good to see OWs who left WGS after their GCSEs at the end of Year 11 as part of our returning cohort – a warm welcome was extended to all.

We wish our newest OWs the very best for their next chapter and look forward to welcoming them back to School again in the future. Knowing how time flies it won’t be long before we are sending out details of their 5-year reunion in 2028!

Further Maths Reunion

Further Mathematicians from the Class of 2023 hotfooted it from the Festive Drinks to join the annual Further Maths reunion hosted by current Head of Maths, Nick Brown (OW 2000). OWs from the Class of 1999 through to the Class of 2023 came together to catch up on all things mathematical at The Westacres in Finchfield.

SAVE THE DATE

Festive Drinks & Further Maths Reunion 2024

Monday 16 December

From the Common Room

It does not feel all that long ago that I was writing my first entry into the Wulfrunian as Chair of The Common Room, where I reflected on the School returning to normal following the pandemic. Now it feels like an even greater chasm of time has passed since that difficult time for the school community. We again look back on a busy and productive school year.

The pages of this magazine show the plethora of activities that our pupils and staff are involved with and make me proud to work in a happy and diverse community such as ours. Staff tirelessly and altruistically devote their spare time to enrich the lives of pupils of Wolverhampton and a huge number of extra-curricular clubs and trips have continued this year.

After another successful year of House Competitions including Tug of War, House Shout, the Talent Show and Sports Day, Moreton eventually finished on top for the second year in a row. This year, we have seen new House competitions being devised by staff,

such as the Diwali tea light competition, apple bobbing, retro gaming and even Ready Steady Cook. The points between Houses are as close as ever, and each House is motivated to ultimately lift the cup during final assembly. It is hard sometimes to determine who is more competitive over this annual contest, the staff or pupils but, either way, it continues to breathe life into our school community.

I wish all staff another successful year.

Tom Jeavons Chair of The Common Room

Salvete et Valete A fond farewell to…

Emma Bowater

By Jon Wood

Fresh-faced from St Dom’s, Emma came to us as a teacher of Art in 2014 to join the Art Department under the watchful eyes of James Millichamp. It was clear from the get-go that Emma is keen, driven and lives and breathes her subject. With a real eye for detail, a highly inventive imagination, and ruthless organisation, her passion impacted her students from the very beginning. She quickly expanded her expertise as a Form Tutor to supporting John Hall’s role as DSL, helping to roll out the systems of AS Tracking and CPOMS and – as if all of this wasn’t enough, she also completed a research paper for the Merchant Taylors to research and promote the use of alternative photography skills in the delivery of A Level Art – no mean feat on top of all of her other responsibilities!

She is also one of the most senior examiners for Art for the exam board OCR, she’s co-ordinated inter-form activities, been an Assistant Head of House and had a baby into the bargain, seemingly spending most of her maternity leave actually in school. That’s an awful lot to accomplish in 9 years!

Emma’s expertise extends well beyond her specialist subject. Over the years, she has committed hours upon hours to masterminding countless private and public Art exhibitions and supported a wealth of extra-curricular activities, not least helping to create and paint (often on Saturday mornings) the visuals for sets for the Senior and Lower School plays. However, one of Emma’s favourite non-Art related activities has to be Coast 2 Coast. As a keen runner she has helped with training runs and supported on the event itself.

Emma became Head of Art in 2018 and continued to be a driving force for upholding high standards. Emma has done more than just pass on her wisdom as an artist; she has taken the time to reassure and provide a calm environment at times when students have been struggling.

An inspiration to so many and a friend to us all, we wish Emma all the best in her new role as Senior School Assistant Head (Partnerships) at Bishop’s Stortford College.

In this edition, we pay tribute to the staff who have left School and welcome new members of the Common Room.

Victoria Clarke

By Emily Dixon

Having known each other since our school days, Vickie and I were delighted to realise that we would be reunited by working together at WGS from September 2014!

Vickie was a Form Tutor to multiple Year 7 groups, where she was a kind and welcoming face to students joining WGS, taking the time to get to know each of her tutees and share in their many interests.

Students benefited from the huge range of activities and teaching styles Vickie would adopt in the classroom to ensure students fully understood their Geography work; complemented by trips outside of lessons. Her favourite Geography topic is volcanoes, earning her the nickname ‘volcano lady’ from Big 6 pupils as they constructed and then tested their working volcanic models.

In the staff room, Vickie was a kind and considerate person who would help you whenever needed. She also impressed as one of the strongest members of the Common Room, owing to her dedication to the gym. During her time at WGS, Vickie married and also became a devoted mother to daughter Eleanor and son Oliver.

Ever the dedicated hard worker, Vickie gave her time to both her family and her students at WGS to ensure that they achieved the best that they could. We wish Vickie all the best for her future as she moves on from WGS to a new role of increased responsibility.

Abbey Cox

By Maggie Keeley

The first time I met Abbey, she came in like a whirlwind; full of enthusiasm and positivity. We sometimes joke that she is like Tigger, so full of energy she even teaches on her tiptoes, bounding around the classroom.

As an ECT, being a key part of the new Wellbeing department, as well as balancing this with teaching Games too, she took everything in her stride, always with a huge smile. With Abbey so committed to excellent teaching and championing the value of the subject, students have embraced her Wellbeing lessons wholeheartedly.

Abbey has made an incredible difference in such a short time, not only to Wellbeing but also to Sport at WGS. She loves netball particularly, and has been a great inspiration to our sports teams, committing to a wide range of clubs, fixtures and a tour to Holland.

It goes without saying that she will be missed by staff and students alike. I am so proud that she has secured a permanent position as Teacher of PE at Smestow Academy (my previous school) with the intention to get involved with PSHE too. I know she will make a huge difference to the children there.

Jason Pigott

By Emma Bowater

I remember when Jon Wood first saw his initials: JJP – he had a brief panic that JJM was back by mistake but turns out Jason is a much calmer Warhammer geek than the previous Art HoD! I know he enjoyed geek club with other members of staff and I think he described his dungeons and dragons character as a gnome shopkeeperwhatever that is!

Speaking of goblins, he coped well with the dramas of Sixth Form students last year and has helped with all of the mad extras in the department, with a few exhibitions to his name. Trips have kept him busy too, even managing to temporarily lose a member of staff at the Creative Careers Fair in Manchester when Hannah the arts assistant wandered off and didn’t answer her phone. Another memorable experience may well be the the photo walk visit to the city centre. When he arrived back at school and I asked how the trip had gone, he said, “It was the best art trip to a car park I’ve ever been on.”

Thank you to Jason for all his commitment and support over the last 18 months and for covering my long maternity cover as well as suffering my return too! We wish you the best of luck in your new school.

Tina Erskine

By Alex Frazer

Tina joined WGS in 2019 as an experienced Development Director in the independent sector, and over four years of dedicated service, she immeasurably revitalised our alumni relations through the establishment of an expanded and well-skilled Development Office. This provided a glorious resurgence of events, including extremely well-attended and joyful London Reunion at the House of Lords, a myriad of year-group reunions at the School and a memorial day for Tony Stocks held with friends from the alumni association of Sir Thomas Rich’s School in Gloucester. Tina also significantly increased contact with OWs in North America, including an inaugural trip to meet OWs on the West and East Coasts in October 2022.

Fundraising is another key aspect of development work and, at the onset of COVID-19, Tina led our Emergency Appeal Fund campaign, raising a stunning £250,000 from OWs and other friends of the School, which allowed 28 students to remain at WGS despite their parents’ income suffering a punishing reduction as a direct result of the pandemic.

continued overleaf…

With an ongoing focus on our bursary fund, Tina has successfully stewarded major gifts, generous legacy pledges and countless donations at various levels which are always gratefully received and which combine powerfully to enable deserving children to attend the School. Through Tina’s work engaging the generosity of alumni, current students have access to an increased number of academic prizes as well as leavers’ scholarships to support the transition to university.

We thank Tina for the huge commitment she made during her time at the School, for the multiple positive effects of her hard work and for her kindness and friendship as a member of the WGS and OW community. Making the decision to retire was a difficult one as Tina regarded WGS as a special place where she was always very happy. She was a kind and compassionate colleague, always there to offer a listening ear. She is greatly missed day-to-day but we are delighted that she has already started to attend OW events on a personal basis, having forged long-lasting friendships with many OWs during her tenure. We wish Tina and her husband John every happiness in retirement.

Alex Frazer

By Shona Hemmings

Alex and I joined WGS together in September 2020 in the midst of the Covid pandemic. We worked in a school operating in ‘Bubbles’ where everyone had to remain two metres apart and seating plans were strictly observed. There were no hot meals in the Derry, staff meetings were held either on Zoom or socially distanced in Big School, lateral flow testing took place in the Sports Centre, Open Days and Parents’ Evenings moved online and there were no public exams for the second year in a row. Despite that Alex started to make changes to the School, the most significant of which was creating Infant classes so that the School opened to children from the age of four in September 2021.

The new House system was launched in July 2021 with a ‘House sorting’ for all year groups in Big School and was embedded during Alex’s second academic year at WGS. Public examination results in 2022 included the best A Level grades at the School for over 10 years in formal examinations, and the results achieved in 2023 ensured that WGS was named in the Top 10 Independent Schools in the West Midlands for academic performance.

Under Alex’s leadership, extra focus was given to the important areas of Wellbeing and Careers and he led the school community in embracing Equity, Diversity and Inclusion through the establishment of Diversity Champions and the creation of opportunities for cultural celebration. I’m sure that Alex had many highlights during his three years at WGS but his trip with ten Lower Sixth students to teach English at a school in Morocco in February 2023 ranks high amongst them.

Most importantly to me, Alex is an incredibly kind and thoughtful man who works with commitment and integrity. Family is important to all of us and I am proud of Alex for taking the decision to move back to London for the good of his family. I, like many of the staff and pupils who were lucky enough to work closely with him, are richer for the experience.

welcome to... Many congratulations...

Kate Walker Teacher of French (Maternity)

Vincent Raymond Barker Teacher of French

Martin Davey Teacher of History

Ashleigh Johnson Year 4 Class Teacher

Stephanie Nicholls Reception Teacher (Maternity)

In addition to Academic Staff, a warm welcome goes to all new members of the School’s professional support teams:

Kelly Hannaford Head’s PA

Carrie Clines Finance Director’s PA & HR Officer

Amy Forrest School Receptionist

Ben Haig ICT Technician

Carolyn Holles Junior School Teaching Assistant

Safraz Khan

Teaching Assistant

Timothy Ponting Teaching Assistant

Doreen Schäfer German Language Assistant

Many congratulations to Karen Walton (OW 2005) on her marriage which took place in Castlemartyr, County Cork, Ireland, on Saturday 18 March 2023. Amongst the guests were Luke Tatton (OW 2011), Corado Manzai (OW 2011), Tom Johnson (OW 2002), Sophie Baker (OW 2006) and Theo King. Kingy even managed to match his tie to Kaz’s pink shoes!

Double congratulations to Carrie Wright (OW 2011) and husband Chris Bate (OW 2010) who welcomed Albie into the world on 14 December, weighting 7lbs and 5oz, they tied the knot earlier in the year on 3 March.

Congratulations to Me’sha Bryan (OW 2001) and husband Darren who were married on 15 July 2023. Me’sha and Darren are musicians who met when Darren auditioned to be the drummer in her band. Their first encounter was when Me’sha was performing her original music at Shepherds Bush Cricket Club and the rest is history!

Congratulations to Freya Liddle (née Husselbee) (OW 2011) on the birth of Torger, (known as Toto). Toto was born on 23 February 2023 weighing 8lb 10oz. Congratulations also go to his doting Grandfather, Andy Husselbee (OW 1979).

School News

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR NEW PREFECT TEAM!

We are delighted to announce the appointment of George Brown and Isabelle Mason as our Head Boy and Head Girl for the 2023/24 academic year. George and Izzy joined WGS in Year 7 and Year 3, respectively, and from the beginning of their time in the Senior School both strived to step into these highly respected roles.

George and Izzy met on their first day of Year 7, having been put into the same form group, and they have been friends ever since. They are currently studying the same A Level subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Further Maths; sharing classes in each one. Post-Sixth Form, Izzy hopes to study Dentistry at university, and George is considering pursuing a degree in Maths.

Throughout their time at WGS, both George and Izzy have demonstrated excellent commitment to numerous aspects of school life. George has been a dedicated football player and is currently a respected member of the 1st XI. Some may also recognise George from his stellar acting performances in numerous school productions in the Hutton Theatre. Similarly, Izzy has been a valuable member of multiple sports teams; including netball, hockey, and rounders. Having played the flute since she was in Year 4, Izzy is a regular visitor to the Music Department. She is currently a member of three ensemble groups and started learning the saxophone last September. Three times a week, Izzy enjoys returning to the Junior School where her WGS journey began, to work as an employee and assist with afterschool responsibilities.

We asked both students what they value most about WGS. George said, “The respect and friendliness of everyone, no matter where you go there is always going to be someone you can rely on or talk to”. Izzy added, “WGS made me the person I am today. I have achieved so much at WGS; I don’t think any other school would have helped me and built my confidence enough to do what I have.”

Congratulations to George and Izzy, we are so proud of them both and look forward to seeing them flourish in their new roles. They are joined by our new Year 7 and House Captains:

Jenyns

James Walker and Rebecca Kent

Moreton

Favour Apata and Jaipal Uppal

Nechells

Dan Middlebrook and Keira Daiya

Offley

Catherine Chung and Ryan Mehan

Year 7 Captains

Devina Sharma and Millie Kelly

Celebrating top grades

This year the much-publicised return to pre-pandemic grading was predicted to reduce the number of students achieving the very best grades at A Level and GCSE. Not so at WGS!

Wolverhampton Grammar School clearly bucked the national trend with a stellar crop of results which put a smile on everyone’s face. Speculation was rife that the move to bring back pre-Covid grade distributions would affect grades negatively across the country but in fact the percentage of Upper Sixth students at WGS awarded with the top A* to A grades was 46% of this year’s cohort, up 13% on 2019 gradings.

An impressive 19% of students this year were awarded an A* with 5 students achieving straight A*s. Two of these were awarded a remarkable 4 straight A* grades and secured their places to study Maths and Engineering at Oxford University. All students studying the vocational Cambridge Technicals achieved a Merit or higher.

A week later, it was the turn of our Year 11 students to rejoice as WGS once again defied national trends. 83% of the cohort were awarded a bumper crop of top GCSE grades 9 - 6 (A*- B). The number of students achieving the very best 9 - 7 grades (A*/A equivalent) was up by 15% on 2019. Two students achieved a fantastic 11 straight 9s and nine students got 10 or 11 9s and 8s each.

Our students undoubtedly still feel the effects of the lockdown years but we are extremely proud of their outstanding results. Thank you to all the staff for their guidance and congratulations to all our hardworking students.

Coast 2 Coast

Congratulations to our 2023 Coast 2 Coast team who completed the 25th annual 170-mile relay challenge from St Bees to Robin Hood’s Bay in an incredible 24 hours and 46 minutes.

Year 10 students Charlotte, Zena, Ashwin, Charlie, India, Reuben, Chris, Dylan, Tia and Matthew all undertook an intense 16-week training programme to prepare themselves for the event, which saw them face some of the steepest inclines in the country including the infamous Hardknott Pass. This year’s team raised money for Place2Be, the UK’s leading school-based mental health charity, providing support to children, families, and school-based staff when they need it. Prior to the run, the team had already raised in excess of £3,000 and Matthew Charlton, Community Fundraising Manager at Place2Be was eager to wish them all the best as the count down to their challenge began, “We are thrilled with the incredible £3,682.08 raised so far by Wolverhampton Grammar students. Put in context, this amazing amount could pay for over 230 children to speak to a qualified counsellor about their worries in a lunchtime session. Without a doubt, it will make a tangible difference to the lives of children across

the UK and the Coast 2 Coast team should feel very proud.”

RAISED A FANTASTIC

£5,623

Following the completion of this year’s Coast 2 Coast, the Wolverhampton Grammar team had raised an incredible £5,623 for Place2Be, making an even greater impact.

A special thank you to our extraordinary staff team: Mr French, Mrs Harris, Mrs Dyer, Mr Johnson, Dr Bradley, Mrs Powell, Mr Jones, Mr Martin, and Mr Anderson, and to the family members who supported the team from day one of training right to the finish line.

Thank you also to our wonderful sponsors: RMW Electrical Services Ltd, The Shingler Group, The Blakemore Foundation, Holroyd Howe, Premier Sports and the WGS Friends.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI)

Our first EDI day was a great success. Held as part of Activities Week at the end of the Summer term, it was a day centred around a range of activities that spanned many aspects of cultural life, including sport, languages, art and religion.

The day started with a languages session, where students were tested with tongue twisters from countries around the world. They then moved on to the art studios, where they explored their heritage through artistic expression, designing images that they felt represented their identity. Some students even had the chance to personalise t-shirts with their art. Everyone found this activity to be incredibly insightful, as it allowed them to see different aspects of each other’s culture.

Later in the morning, students attended an informative talk about the virtues

and practices of Sikhism, given by guest speaker, Mr Gakhal. Here, they learnt about what it means to be a Sikh and participated in a turban-tying session. Students then engaged in some sporting activities, including boules and Kabaddi and Haka dances, which they choreographed and performed.

The day ended with a fascinating talk, where students and teachers alike learned about the effects of Partition between India and Pakistan. They were all captivated by guest speaker Pepe Hart, from the Partition Education Group. Finally, students dressed into

their own cultural clothes to enjoy snacks, music and dancing and proudly celebrated our diverse WGS community.

Following on from Activities Week we were excited to see the creation of a Diversity Mural looking on to Moreton’s Piece. The piece of art is representative of students’ views on EDI at WGS and we were helped by Street Artist, Neil Willis. Emily Hunt (OW 2018), Ross Deeley (OW 2020), Harjorth Sanghera and Elena Martellini (OWs 2021) joined current students to create stencils, select paint and bring the design to life. Please do look out for this on your next visit!

South Africa Sports Tour

Many of our OWs will remember the first ever WGS trip to South Africa in 2002. 21 years later 50 students and eight members of staff assembled on the steps of Big School ready to embark on an exciting 5640-mile adventure across the world. It was to prove to be one of the most memorable and thoroughly rewarding experiences for all.

South Africa welcomed us with open arms and the hospitality and warmth shown by those we encountered endeared the tour party to the ‘Safa’ charm. The sporting encounters were competitive, hard-fought, evenly matched, and most importantly, fantastic fun. The boys competed excellently, winning and losing some tight, wellfought football games. On the netball and hockey front, both sides won most of their games and we were truly thankful to the schools who hosted us for their generous and kind-hearted welcome.

Accompanying the sport was a rich tapestry of South African culture and the tour group took in many memorable sites: Robben Island opened the eyes of the students and reminded them of the sacrifice Nelson Mandela made in fighting for equality; Table Mountain provided striking views and a reminder of how powerful Mother Nature can be, whilst the V&A Waterfront enabled students to shop, eat and socialise in a safe but scenic environment at the foot of Table Mountain. Heading north to Johannesburg and Bela Bela, the tour group headed out on safari, getting up close and personal with the wonder of the African bush.

A highlight for many was the visit to Langa Township, one of South Africa’s oldest townships. The students toured round and saw a different side to what living in South Africa can be, as well as undertaking some coaching with local school children. Many of the tour group

wished they were able to spend longer with the local children and look back fondly on the experience as one of the most memorable.

On their final day of the tour students were able to visit the Winnie Mabaso Foundation and hand over a cheque for over £4,000, the culmination of a month of fundraising in the run up to the trip. It was a stand-out moment for the students to see the genuine appreciation in the eyes of the women and children there.

Two years in the planning, hours and hours spent behind the scenes, all ensured that the first foray outside Europe in over a decade was a memorable and successful one for the Sports Department. Thank you to Mr Clancy, Mrs Powell, Mrs Dyer and Miss Gibbons who were supported by Miss Jones, Dr Pounder, Mr Jones and Mr Villafrati. South Africa was incredible and we can’t wait to return!

Wolves fan tackles the dangers of heading

Mrs Rowley and the School are delighted that Wolverhampton Grammar has its second regional winner in the BBC Young Reporter competition. Following in the footsteps of Jaipal who won last year with her report on surrogacy, Luke chose to explore the issue of concussion in football; a problem he became aware of after watching Wolves player, Raúl Jiménez, suffer a fractured skull after he rose for a header during a match against Arsenal in November 2020. Luke, who has been a Wolves Season Ticket Holder since 2019, wanted to understand what the impacts could be on one of his footballing heroes.

Luke, who played football from the age of five, only hanging up his boots last year to begin refereeing, is incredibly passionate about the sport and has hopes for a future career in sports commentating or sports journalism. Clearly Mrs Rowley is continuing to inspire the next generation of journalists! Luke is looking forward to seeing his report professionally produced and broadcast across the BBC network.

Walker Memorial Mile

On the last Friday of the Summer term, students and staff gathered on a sunny Moreton’s Piece to run the 30th annual Walker Memorial Mile, in memory of OW Chris Walker, who tragically died in 1983. Thank you to everyone who

participated and well done to Ruben in Year 8 who was the first boy to finish and Charlotte and Zena who tied for fastest girl. Mr Martin was the overall winner for the second year running!

Malcolm Ward Piano Competition

Eight exceptionally gifted Lower School pianists made the final of the Judge Malcolm Ward Piano Competition. Congratulations to Davina in Year 8 who was the eventual winner. Davina is

excelling musically both in and outside school and is a member of the Junior Royal Birmingham Conservatoire where she has been studying piano, saxophone and composition.

In the Senior Cup Emily in the Lower Sixth was the deserving winner –congratulations!

2023 Sporting Highlights

U13A and U15s crowned City Netball Champions

U11 Boys City Champions and Finalists at ISFA

U16 Girls Futsal Team were runners-up in the City Tournament

U13 and U15 Girls were runners-up in the City Football Tournament

U9 and U11 City Cricket Champions

U19 Netballers victorious in City Tournament

Sports Day House Winners – Offley

Senior Productions

This year WGS put on two spectacular Shakespearean performances. The Seniors took on Shakespeare in Love, a stage adaptation of the popular 1998 screenplay starring Gwyneth Paltrow and Joseph Fiennes and a lighthearted imagining of the genesis of Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet Three sold-out performances were enjoyed in the Hutton Theatre as our talented young actors delivered their lines with great comic timing staying true to the wit of the original script.

In the Spring Term it was the turn of Lower School to take to the stage. An abridged version of Macbeth was performed by young actors in Years 7 - 10.

A packed house was brilliantly entertained as our students mastered the Shakespearean language to deliver confident performances.

As always we thank our wonderful WGS Production Team: Ian Tyler, Mark Payne, Jon Wood, Kevin Petford, Josh Joyner, Mary Mullock, Emma Bowater, James Millichamp, Michelle Harris, Ray Curran and Sara-Luise Smith.

In 2024 we are looking forward to our first OW Drama Reunion and the opportunity to journey down memory lane whilst perusing old film footage, programmes and photographs.

In fond Remembrance

We remember with fondness all those connected to the WGS community who have sadly passed since our last publication:

Michael Atkin, known as Charlie (OW 1956)

9 April 2023, aged 81

Alvyn Bates (OW 1952)

11 May 2022, aged 87

Hedley Berry (OW 1946)

27 February 2021, aged 84

Adrian Bird (OW 1950)

Notified on 16 March 2023

Stephen Blower (OW 1964)

25 April 2023, aged 77

Michael Bott (OW 1959)

16 June 2023, aged 82

M Clark (OW 1976)

Notified on 5 December 2023

Michael Clewett (OW 1962)

5 January 2023, aged 78

Paul Clewett (OW 1963)

January 2023, aged 78

Christopher Cooper, known as Chris (OW 1970)

24 September 2022, aged 69

Robert Davenport (OW 1958)

14 April 2020, aged 79

David Davies (OW 1949)

December 2022, aged 89

Peter Gilbert (OW 1942)

Notified on 3 January 2023

John Griffiths (OW 1954)

26 November 2023, aged 88

James Howe (OW 1949)

6 July 2023, aged 91

David Howells (OW 1976)

8 March 2022, aged 63

John Hyatt (OW 1977)

4 December 2023, aged 65

Bruce Jones (OW 1940)

Notified on 9 October 2023

Jonathan Langston (OW 1988)

17 March 2023, aged 52

John Ling (OW 1945)

13 February 2023, aged 95

David Hough (OW 1947)

13 October 2022, aged 93

Stephen Lockley (OW 1968)

6 April 2023, aged 74

Arthur Milburn (OW 1945)

12 June 2023, aged 94

Kenneth Millard, known as Ken (OW 1956)

Notified on 11 September 2023

Arthur Morris (OW 1947)

Notified on 26 April 2023

Raymond Mynett, known as Robin (OW 1946)

27 September 2022, aged 94

William Owen, known as Bill (OW 1962)

20 March 2023, aged 79

Ian Pearce (OW 1948)

4 April 2017, aged 87

Joelle Plowright (OW 2014)

Notified on 9 November 2023, aged 28

David Price (OW 1949)

Notified on 10 September 2023

Michael Retallack MBE (OW 1943)

Notified on 11 April 2023

Clifford Richards (OW 1945)

Notified on 12 May 2023

Melanie Rissbrook (OW 1986)

Notified on 6 April 2023

Anthony Sharp, known as Tony (OW 1949)

Notified on 3 July 2023

Keith Singleton (OW 1947)

Notified on 20 March 2023

Roger Squires (OW 1947)

1 June 2023, aged 91

James Waddams (OW 1951)

1 August 2023, aged 84

Bryce Walker (OW 1946)

Notified on 31 March 2023

John Walton (OW 1946)

Notified on 25 July 2023

Barrie Willis (OW 1948)

10 May 2016, aged 86

Frederick Winnall, known as Tony (OW 1954)

7 November 2023, aged 85

John Worthington (OW 1971)

18 December 2023, aged 69

Full obituaries received by the Development Office can be found on our new Alumni Portal www.oldwulfrunians.wgs.org.uk under the Announcements tab.

If you prefer to receive a printed copy please do let us know. Email development@wgs-sch.net or call Caroline or Julie on 01902 421326 (Ext 251/252)

Farewell and Good Luck to the Class of 2023

We can’t believe it is now time to say farewell to another Upper Sixth cohort! The last year has really flown by, and the Class of 2023 have focused admirably on their exams, despite being the second consecutive Upper Sixth year taking A Levels without the benefit of sitting public exams at GCSE.

The customary trip to Warped Sports, Cosford, took place as energies were expended in a battle of paintball before returning to the more leisurely affair of the Upper Sixth Leavers’ Lunch, to which parents were also invited.

Our Leavers received their hoodies and year books and enjoyed reminiscing with staff and parents over a delicious lunch in Big School, courtesy of School caterers Holroyd Howe.

Before it was time to say a final goodbye there was of course, the much anticipated Upper Sixth Leavers’ Ball held at South Staffordshire Golf Club where many more memories were made.

We wish the Class of 2023 all the best of luck with their post-Sixth Form adventures and look forward to seeing

them at future events run by the Development Office. The Old Wulfrunian community continues to grow and prosper and spreads across many countries worldwide. We were reminded just how strong our WGS ties are by Guest Speaker, Alex Vergopoulos (OW 1990) at Prizegiving, and we hope that this year’s leavers will feel the same way and enjoy returning to School for many years to come to attend OW events organised by Caroline and Jules.

CLASS of 2023 DESTINATION

Zak Adnan University of Bristol – Medicine

Olu Aguda University of Oxford – Mathematics

Ewan Alexander University of Leeds – Mechanical Engineering

Elliot Andreae University of Exeter – Computer Science with Industrial Experience

Hamzah Ansari University of Manchester – Accounting and Finance

Nana Appiagyei University of York – Biomedical Sciences

Arnav Basandrai University of Wolverhampton – Phramaceutical Science

Ashton Benson University of Wolverhampton – Property Management and Real Estate with Sandwich Placement

Sam Bryan Gap Year

Jenny Chan University of Warwick – Law with Study Abroad in English

Sachin Chumber University of Leicester – Accounting and Finance

Saksham Dadwal University of Leicester – Computer Science

Harry Davis Coventry University – Business Management

Jayben Dosanjh University of Liverpool – Philosophy

Amar Dudwall Liverpool John Moores University – Sports Journalism

Samuel Ezeazu Volunteering placement in South Africa with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints

Thomas Frith University of Leeds – Automotive Engineering

Jasmine Gill Birmingham City University – Cyber Security with Foundation Year

Benjamin Green University of Bath – Chemistry with professional placement or study abroad

Ella Grew University of Manchester – Medicine

Ryan Hamad University of Liverpool – Medicine

Edward Hamill University of Birmingham – Aerospace Engineering

Jonty Hamilton Cardiff University – Biological Sciences

Ahmed Imran Hull York Medical School – Medicine

Gurveer Johal University of Leicester – Business and Management

Amber Kahlon University of Birmingham – Law

Jai Kanda Gap Year

Serena Kang University of Birmingham – MPharm Programme for Pharmacy

Jamie Killion Liverpool John Moores University – Product Design Engineering

Gurjeevan Kullar University of Birmingham – Business Management with Marketing

Vishwas Kumar University of Oxford – Engineering

Kabir Lally Keele University – Pharmacy

Safa Mahmood Keele University – Neuroscience and Psychology

Niraj Malhi University of Westminster, London – Medical Sciences

Rimini Mander Lancaster University – Computer Science

Arjen Mander University of Birmingham – English Language and Linguistics

CLASS

of 2023 DESTINATION

Aaron Mattu University of Birmingham – Economics

Mikhil Mistry University of Manchester – Chemical Engineering

Niall Morris In full time employment (engineering) with a view to doing a degree apprenticeship

Nellie Nabati University of York – Biomedical Sciences

Sophie Newey University of Manchester – Geography

Ahmed Osman Cardiff University – Biological Sciences

Arjun Pamma Swansea University – Pharmacy

Laura Partha Sarathi University of Plymouth – Psychology with Integrated Foundation Year

Theo Pickin Loughborough University – Business Analytics (with placement year)

Jaden Ram University of Reading – Business and Management with Placement Year

Adya Rao Keele University – Biomedical Science

Jeevan Sanghera Aston University, Birmingham – Pharmacy

Natalie Saunders University of Exeter – Film & Television Studies with Study Abroad

Amar Sidhu Aston University, Birmingham – Politics with International Relations

Jak Sidhu University of Warwick – Mechanical Engineering

Elena Stepp Liverpool John Moores University – Animal Behaviour with Foundation Year

Rosie Thacker Arts University Plymouth – Fine Art (Extended Degree)

Thomas Watson Harper and Keele Veterinary School – Veterinary Medicine and Surgery

Harry Williams University of Exeter – Economics with Industrial Experience

Following on from a gap year, further congratulations go to the following OWs who have started university this year:

CLASS of 2020 DESTINATION

Cameron Grewal University of Liverpool – Psychology

CLASS of 2022 DESTINATION

Isabelle Smith University of Bath – Chemistry

Henry Willis University of Liverpool – History

Thank you to Robert and Nik Zeps (OWs 1988) who annually support students moving to university with a scholarship of £1,000 towards their studies. This year’s worthy recipients are:

Zeps Natural Sciences Scholarship – Ella Grew studying Medicine at Manchester University

Graham Lewis Maths Scholarship – Vishwas Kumar studying Engineering at Oxford University

Graham Lewis Maths Scholarship – Olumide Aguda studying Mathematics at Oxford University

Share your news and stay in touch with us

If you have a memory to share or a story to tell, family news or a promotion to celebrate, an idea for a future event or a plan to visit School, do get in touch; we would love to hear from you!

Email: development@wgs-sch.net

Post: Development Office, Wolverhampton Grammar School, Compton Road, Wolverhampton, WV3 9RB

Telephone: +44 (0) 1902 421326 Ext. 251/252

Alumni Community Platform: www.oldwulfrunians.wgs.org.uk

Visit our new alumni platform to connect with other OWs, book events, and read the latest OW news. Follow us on one of our social media platforms:

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‘Like’ our Facebook pages, search for:

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Wolverhampton Grammar School

Compton Road

Wolverhampton

WV3 9RB

+44 (0) 1902 421326

www.wgs.org.uk

@WGS1512 @WGSOW

Wolverhampton Grammar School Official or Old Wulfrunians of WGS

Wolverhampton Grammar School

Wolverhampton Grammar School Development Office