Between the PINES - Aug 2025 by Woodstock School

Between the August 2025

Family Focus

Meet the Maynards

Faith, Fun and Family Life at

Woodstock

When Adam and Naomi Maynard first crossed paths, they were 19-year-old students in ‘freshers week’ at St Andrews University in Scotland. Naomi recalls thinking, ‘That’s the kind of guy I want to marry’ –though she already had a boyfriend at the time. Adam, meanwhile, admits to being disappointed about that fact. They became friends, then housemates, and by their second year, they began dating. In 2010, they married and built a life together in London, before Adam felt called to become a vicar in the Church of England After training, he spent nine years ministering in Liverpool’s inner-city housing estates – some of the most economically challenged areas in the UK During that time, Naomi earned her PhD in Children’s Rights and went on to lead a non-profit, tackling food poverty. When the Woodstock chaplaincy role came up, the couple knew it was worth exploring. Naomi had lived in South India as a teenager and visited Woodstock before, so the place already felt familiar. ‘We felt this was a community we wanted to be part of,’ they share Adam serves as Chaplain, while Naomi works in Alumni and Advancement, roles that, while different, both focus on building relationships and strengthening community.

Weekends & Traditions

Life at Woodstock for the Maynards is a blend of rest, play and connection A typical Saturday might start with pancakes for breakfast, followed by a game of cornhole or badminton outside with neighbours, a few board games or Nintendo time, and perhaps dinner from Café Ivy, Kairos or Little Llamas Sundays often include a visit to a local church.

The family loves adventures. Before moving to India, Harvey and Donny’s favourite holiday was a week in Cyprus, complete with an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet and plenty of waterparks Their past summer trip to Japan was another highlight, combining visits to Universal Studios (for Super Mario World and Harry Potter World) with temple visits, Mount Fuji and quirky character-themed stores When it comes to games, their household enjoys Ticket to Ride, Settlers of Catan, Chameleon, Uno, Super Mario Kart and the occasional Fifa match. On the food front, UK comfort food means spaghetti bolognaise with garlic bread, while Indian favourites include Katsu Chicken and burgers from Kairos.

Lessons Learned

Over nearly two decades together, the Maynards have navigated parenting, career changes and grief. ‘There’s no magic formula,’ they say. ‘It’s shaped who we are today We’ve found support in good friendships, good humour and our faith’ One of their guiding principles is to make decisions in the moment rather than being paralysed by future worries or past regrets – and to make those decisions together

Community & Faith Community, for the Maynards, is about sharing life without judgement or performance, whether that’s eating together, having neighbourhood kids in and out of the house, watching TV shows together or playing games They believe in being hospitable to all, getting to know people from different walks of life and throwing the occasional ‘everybody’s welcome’ party.

Their faith shapes not only their work but also their approach to parenting, as they aim to instil in Donny and Harvey values of kindness, curiosity, resilience and generosity.

The Maynards’ story is one of shared purpose, deep faith and a willingness to embrace life’s adventures, whether that’s moving across the world, exploring new cultures or making pancakes on a Saturday morning.

Anonymous

A Glimpse into Life at Woodstock

At Woodstock, community and belonging shape every experience. Standing by a window overlooking the mountains, I’m reminded of our open, grounded culture, where ideas and people are truly seen and valued One proud moment was onboarding new staff, watching departments unite effortlessly to welcome them. My role challenges me to balance strategy with empathy, creating people-centric processes that foster growth Each day feels fresh, like the ever-changing sky What sets Woodstock apart is its leadership’s openness and the team’s collaborative spirit, rooted in trust, respect and shared purpose. If I were to describe this place to a friend, I’d highlight the deep sense of connection, the vibrant diversity, and the inspiration drawn from our natural surroundings

A Life of Quiet Service Invisible Hands

In the heart of Woodstock School, where generations of students have passed through its halls and memories echo across the hills, there are individuals whose presence is so constant, so quietly impactful, that they become part of the very spirit of the place. Mr Rajesh Tank from Housekeeping is one of those people. Originally from Bijnor in Uttar Pradesh, Rajesh carries the warmth of his childhood with him. Though he fondly remembers his home in Bijnor, Woodstock has long been his second home; his father worked at Edgehill, and the school has been a part of his life since he was young That deep connection to the school is more than professional; it’s personal, generational and rooted in love. Rajesh’s journey at Woodstock began in 1988, and for over three decades he has served with quiet pride and unwavering dedication. ‘I’m proud of working for Woodstock School since so many years,’ he says. It’s not just a job; it’s a life’s work, a commitment to excellence and a reflection of his values

When asked who shaped him most, Rajesh doesn’t stop there. He acknowledges the inf played a role in shaping the person he is t moulds us in subtle and profound ways

For Rajesh, success isn’t about accolades o That simple philosophy, rooted in integrity a of it all is happiness: ‘Staying happy with family at home is the most important th says It’s a tradition, a ritual and a source

If he could offer advice to his younger sel would say: ‘Adapt. Life changes, and we m change with it.’ That wisdom, earned thro experience, speaks to his resilience and h to grow with time Even on the toughest d Rajesh finds motivation in his children – t and a daughter. They are his inspiration, h reason to keep going, and his hope for the future. ‘We have to work and give our bes every day to make sure we support our children and ourselves in the future,’ he shares. It’s a sentiment that resonates with anyone who’s ever worked hard for the ones they love.

Rajesh’s story is one of quiet strength, deep loyalty and enduring love In a world that often celebrates the loudest voices, he reminds us of the power of consistency, humility and heart Woodstock School is richer for having him, and his legacy lives on in every corner of the campus he’s helped shape thus far.

A Nostalgic Summer Break

When I was four, my family moved to a small island near Seattle. It was an idyllic place to grow up; our house faced the beach, with acres of forest stretching out behind. We built tree forts and climbed into the China Stump, the remains of an old-growth cedar so vast that four of us could fit inside and play. Summers were spent sailing, canoeing and swimming in the bioluminescence after dark.

Not much has changed over the years. After a long taxi ride to Delhi, two flights to Seattle, a train journey, a ferry crossing and one final taxi, I was finally home. Summer had begun.

My sister and I both have summer birthdays, so our first outing was to celebrate hers with a week-long stay on Orcas Island near the Canadian border. Joined by family, we enjoyed cycling, boating and hiking. We watched stunning sunsets and indulged in delicious food. We had one special moment near Sucia Island, where my nephew Grant who works for the State Park Service

During this time, I learned that Dennis, my former theater director from school and a long-time friend (he even visited me in India!), had sadly passed away earlier in the year. His memorial had been postponed so that friends could give him a proper send-off. The theater was prepared, tributes written and short films created. Most significantly, performances were being rehearsed from the many musicals he had directed throughout his long theatrical career. I was deeply honored to be asked to sing the final number of the service: ‘Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat’ from Guys and Dolls. It was my first lead role, back when I was a sixth-former That production is one of the reasons I’m so passionate about producing musicals for young people today. Friends flew in from across the country for the memorial It was wonderful to reconnect and collaborate with so many familiar faces. More importantly, I was reminded of the profound impact Dennis had on countless lives.

The final big event before returning to the hillside was my birthday celebration. The plan was to spend the night in Seattle and dine at our favorite restaurant The following day, my brother-in-law chartered a boat and took us out onto Lake Union and Lake Washington for an afternoon of urban gunkholing (look it up – it’s worth it!). Seeing Seattle from the water was absolutely stunning.

But before all that, I told my sister there was one thing we had to do. Earlier in the week, I’d arranged for us to get our first tattoos. What did we choose? Matching tattoos of the island we grew up on and still hold dear. At the top is a star marking the spot where our house stands – a little home by the water, where we continue to make memories.

Local Sights

Many of our favourite Mussoorie and Landour cafés, restaurants and sights offer special discounts for Woodstock staff and students. Here are a few you might enjoy:

Jabarkhet Nature Reserve

Free entry, as the school holds a membership. A perfect place to hike and explore beautiful trails.

Emily’s at Rokeby Manor 15% discount (+91 98979 90666)

Little Llama Café 10% discount (+91 81263 83273)

Doma’s Café 10% discount (+91 73021 91644)

Lotte’s Café 15% discount (+91 74548 12887)

The Tavern & Café de Tavern 15% discount (+91 87917 76189)

Whistling Pines at Fern Brentwood Hotel 15% discount (+91 87910 54010)

Take advantage of these offers and enjoy some of the best food, coffee and outdoor experiences our hillside has to offer!

August Devotion

Have I told you about the time I nearly died?

It was mostly entirely my own fault A friend and I had decided to go on a cycling ‘pilgrimage’ from York to Whitby in the North of England This was a lovely idea, but there were two problems One was that we decided to do this in April (for people not familiar with the British weather, April = cold) The second was that we set off late, procrastinated on the way, and stopped for a long lunch. All of this meant that when the sun was going down, we were stuck in the middle of the wild North York Moors, many miles from our destination and with no-one else in sight. It was at this moment that it started to snow and the realisation dawned that if we did not get off the Moor soon, we would be in serious trouble Spoiler: we did, thankfully, make it off the Moor and eventually found our way to civilisation again –cold, wet and terrified.

‘What’s the point of this story?’ you may ask. The point is that this experience brought me and my friend to a deeper level of friendship. We had to lean on each other to survive. We had to be vulnerable in admitting our fear We got to share in the deep relief of seeing the lights of Whitby in the distance, knowing this meant we could find safety

When we journey together, we are not just passengers who happen to be going in the same direction; we can form deep connections that shape us and change us in ways we can’t possibly imagine or understand. This experience reminds me of the famous verses from Psalm 23: ‘Even though I walk through the darkest valley, YOU are with me’ These words speak of the writer’s belief that God also journeys with us through every moment of our lives, even and perhaps especially in our darkest moments As we continue to journey together through the ups and downs of Woodstock life, let’s be open to the ways we might grow in deeper understanding and appreciation of each other and of God along the way.

As a full-time educator in the Religious Education Department, I bring a global and experiential lens to my teaching I hold a degree in Religion and Global Development from Calvin University and received training in Interfaith Dialogue from the Al Amana Centre in Oman. My approach blends academic insight with hands-on learning, and my background in outdoor education has shaped my belief that real understanding comes through direct experience

One of my favourite courses to teach is Sacred Spaces and Interfaith Dialogue, a WSDP elective for Grades 10–12. In this class, students visit six local places of worship, each representing a major world religion. These visits are followed by seminar-style discussions where we reflect on religious symbols, values and architecture, and explore how to engage in respectful dialogue across beliefs.

I encourage my students to ask thoughtful questions, listen deeply and disagree with grace. This course isn’t just about understanding religion; it’s about building bridges in a diverse world

I’m always open to collaborating with others who are passionate about interfaith experiences or experiential education In this Himalayan setting, every lesson becomes a journey, and every conversation, a sacred space.

DID YOU KNOW... Master of Many Instruments

If you’ve ever wandered past the music room sounds – strings humming, drums pulsing, melodies dancing through the air And more often than not, the person behind those sounds is Mr Jordan Korth, a cornerstone of the Music department and a quiet master of nearly every instrument in the room

Mr Korth’s musical journey began in Middle School, sparked not by a formal recital but by a group of friends with a dream: to start a rock band. The only problem? No one played bass. Stepping into the gap, he began taking lessons and received his first electric bass as a Christmas gift. That moment marked the beginning of a lifelong relationship with music, one that would evolve, deepen and inspire countless students along the way

By High School, Mr Korth had expanded his repertoire to include the upright bass, immersing himself in classical music while continuing to explore rock and jazz. He began incorporating music into school projects, tracking his progress, and pushing the boundaries of what he could learn. His curiosity became a driving force, leading him to explore the mechanics of nearly every instrument he encountered Today, Mr Korth tells his students that he understands the fundamentals of most instruments well enough to play something on nearly any one he picks up But he draws a meaningful distinction between instruments he performs on publicly and those he experiments with purely for the joy of learning. At Woodstock, he’s performed on all four main classical string instruments, as well as on guitar and a wide variety of percussion, each one a testament to his versatility and dedication. When asked which instrument best represents his personality, Mr Korth doesn’t hesitate: the bass ‘The traditional perception of a bassist resonates with me,’ he says ‘Steady, easygoing, reliable and always present to support the group. Yet, when needed, not afraid to step forward and take on a leading role.’ It’s a reflection not just of his musical style but of his teaching philosophy and presence within the school community.

Among the many unforgettable moments in his teaching career, Mr Korth is most moved by the quiet triumphs, those times when stude stage and bring their effort to li performance, he says, is a powerfu And if he could invent a new instru strings with the tactile playfulness of buttons, perhaps even incorpora something whimsical, like marbles, to create a sound that’s truly one-of-a-kind.

Because for him, music is not just about mastery; it’s about imagination, exploration and joy.

More Than a Transformation: My Story of Gut, Grace and Growth

Eight months ago, I was just trying to make peace with my body. I’d struggled with my weight for two years – countless diets, endless routines – but nothing seemed to stick. Then something shifted. Today, when people see me, they’re stunned The question I hear most is: ‘How did you lose so much weight so quickly?’ But the real change wasn’t just physical; it started in my gut I’m sharing my story not to boast, but because I wish someone had told me earlier: gut health is the foundation of lasting wellness My turning point came at a workshop hosted by OJAS Life Honestly, I didn’t expect much I doubted I could even finish the programme Fasting had always felt impossible; I could barely go a day without food. But part of the process involved fasting on water for eight days. It sounded extreme. Yet, with expert guidance and a supportive community, I did it And it changed everything The workshop wasn’t just about fasting It helped me understand how the body heals and how every bite matters I learned it’s not just what I eat, but when and how. I stopped seeing food as comfort and started seeing it as nourishment. Even small changes – like chewing slowly – made a difference

What surprised me most was the science behind fasting I’d always thought of it as a spiritual practice. But I discovered it’s deeply biological, helping the body reset, reduce inflammation and heal the gut. Every major tradition embraces fasting for a reason: it works Now, when people ask how I did it, I smile Because the answer isn’t flashy or complicated It’s simple Healing starts with understanding, kindness and the gut. This journey wasn’t just about losing weight. It was about clarity, energy and peace And if my story helps even one person feel more hopeful and connected to their body, then sharing it is worth it

Here are some links to study the benefits of fasting: https://www.bluezones.com/2018/10/fasting-for-health-andlongevity-nobel-prize-winning-research-on-cell-aging/ https://www nobelprize org/prizes/medicine/2016/pressrelease/

COMFORT BROCCOLI

It is usually coffee, chocolate, cupcakes or crisps that people reach for when they’re stressed or upset. We call it comfort food Eat it; feel better at least for a little while What would you bring a friend who’s feeling low? A mug of hot cocoa? A chocolate bar? Certainly not a bowl of broccoli!

Yet broccoli is a scientifically recognised comfort food Over the past decade, researchers have shown that eating more dietary fibre – found in vegetables, fruits and whole grains – lowers the risk of depression Some studies even suggest a formula: eat 5% more fibre, reduce depression risk by 5%. While exact figures vary, the principle stands: fibre is good for you. Ironically, the human body can’t digest fibre It’s the bacteria in our gut that benefit Fibre feeds them But this microflora is vital to us, too. It produces postbiotics, which support digestion, immunity and, as it turns out, mood regulation

Broccoli isn’t the only fibre-rich food in our dining hall; apples, carrots, olives, lettuce, daal, brown rice (now on the menu)... likewise all great. I just happen to love broccoli and the way they prepare it at Woodstock: whole and crunchy Crunchy means the Vitamin C is intact, along with Vitamin K, folic acid, potassium and magnesium Right, stop me here! I just really like broccoli!

From CPR to Clarity

Fauna Focus

A Silent Crisis in theHills: What we are doing to the Macaques

If you are a nature enthusiast, you can derive great joy from watching Himalayan macaques in their wild habitat. Lately, there is a troubling shift. These intelligent creatures now gather near roads and temples, begging for chips, sweets and leftovers It may seem kind, but it’s quietly harming them.

Processed foods disrupt their gut health, cause stress and lead to dependency on humans They stop foraging, lose their ecological role and become aggressive, raiding homes and clashing with people Their natural behaviour fades, and so does their place in the forest Fasting traditions aside, macaques aren’t built for our snacks. They’re vital seed dispersers and forest caretakers When we feed them junk, we break that cycle. Let’s admire them from a distance, protect their habitat and stop feeding them what their bodies were never meant to digest The Himalaya deserve better – and so do its wild guardians.

When I came to Woodstock, I learned that the Residence Life Team is committed to having 100% of residence staff trained in the full 9-day Wilderness First Responder (WFR) course This ensures our team can handle emergencies both in the dorms and while chaperoning field trips. With my background in public health and my strong interest in first aid and the outdoors, I was excited to participate

I was one of five Woodstock staff in the course, held at the Hanifl Centre We were joined by 26 outside participants, many working for outdoor guiding companies in India and abroad. Throughout the course, we practiced primary patient assessments for lifethreatening conditions, taking patient history and vital signs, fullbody surveys, and using decision trees to prioritize actions in emergencies

We were also trained and certified in CPR and the use of epinephrine auto-injectors for allergy emergencies The course offered both theoretical and practical knowledge for first aid in remote settings, covering hypothermia, drowning, wound care and reducing dislocations

A highlight was the teach-back method, where participants acted as both caregiver and patient in scenarios. This gave us extensive, hands-on experience in patient assessment

The course was especially valuable to me for two reasons. First, it gave me greater confidence to live in our remote location while caring for many children, including my own. I now feel more capable of making calm decisions and delivering quality, pre-hospital care Second, it reinforced the importance of staying grounded as leaders. In chaotic scenarios – patients shouting or panicking – our role was to remain clear-headed That’s a powerful metaphor for working with students; we must be their calm, steady adults.

How Cinnamon Stole my Heart

upside down – in the best possible

Cinnamon isn’t just any dog. She’s a Bakharwal, a rare and ancient breed native to the northern Himalayan range. Known by many names – Gujjar Watchdog, Kashmiri Mastiff, Kashmir Sheepdog – this breed has a storied legacy. Thought to be a cross between the Tibetan Mastiff and the Indian Dog, Bakharwals are muscular, majestic and built for the rugged terrain of the mountains With thick fur concentrated around their ears, neck, back and tail, they thrive in colder climates and are known for their loyalty, bravery and protective instincts. In their native regions, they’re celebrated as fierce guardians and beloved companions.

Cinnamon’s journey began as a rescue, thanks to the compassionate efforts of Mr Prabin, Mr Jamal and students involved in the Benn Initiative at our school She was just a puppy when I agreed to foster her –just for a week, I told myself But one week turned into a month, and a month into a year Somewhere along the way, she became my shadow, my confidante, my comic relief and my heart

Despite her mountain roots, Cinnamon adapted quickly to life with me. She’s clever – alarmingly so –and her antics never fail to make me laugh. Whether she’s stealing socks or inventing her own games, she’s a constant source of joy And in moments when I miss my loved ones back home, she’s a warm, furry reminder that love can be found in the most unexpected places Eventually I plan to take her back to the UK with me I live near the beach, and while I know she’ll miss de the Himalayan slopes for sandy dunes and sea breezes. After

Ruth Broome

orary guest, but she’s now a permanent part of my life. She’s nd in this unexpected bond between a former cat person and a wild and wonderful as the Himalaya themselves Win-win, eh?

Learning the Slang: SouthAfrica

Each month, we will shine a spotlight on one of the many nations represented within our vibrant and multicultural team by delving into the unique slang and colloquialisms that make their communication distinctive. This month, we turn our attention to South Africa, a land rich in culture and linguistic variety

Shame

This is a typical expression for sympathy or admiration, e.g., ‘Ah, shame man, poor girl!’ or ‘Shame, he’s so cute.’

Lekker

Lekker[lek-uh] is a widely used term indicating that something is ‘great’ or ‘nice’. For example, ‘The food was lekker’ or ‘We had a lekker day’ Derived from the Afrikaans language.

Now Now

You’ll often hear South Africans mention that they will do something ‘now now’ This does not mean they’ll do it immediately, but rather a bit later. It may sound illogical but makes complete sense in South Africa!

Ag

In South Africa,ag[agh] is not short for aggressive or agriculture; it’s a filler word to express irritation or resignation. For example, ‘Ag, no man!’ or ‘Ag, let’s go’

Sho!

Wow! This exclamation of exasperation comes from the African English Jozi dialect.

Braai

Braai[br-eye] is a widely used noun and verb for an outdoor ‘barbecue’ where meat is cooked over a fire or coals

Eish

Eish[aysh] is a colloquial exclamation of surprise, disapproval, exasperation or regret derived from Xhosa. For example, ‘Eish, my cell phone broke.’

Biltong

Biltong is a favourite South African snack made from raw, dried and salted meat, similar to beef jerky.

Traffic Light

Flavours of the World Peru

Causa Limeña (Classic Tuna Causa)

A Dish of History, Heart and Celebration

At the heart of every Peruvian celebration, amid music, dances and waving flags, there's a flavour you simply can’t miss: la causa limeña. But this iconic dish is much more than a delight for the palate; it’s a bite of history, a spoonful of national pride and a standing ovation for Peruvian creativity and pride

A Potato with a Purpose

To understand la causa, we must begin with the star of the show: the potato (papa in Spanish). First cultivated over 8,000 years ago in the Andes, the potato is Peru’s gift to the world Today, the country proudly boasts over 7,000 varieties of potatoes, each with its own shape, flavour, colour and texture.

‘For the Cause’

The origin of la causa isn't just culinary; it’s patriotic Legend has it that during Peru’s war of independence in the early 19th century, women prepared this dish to feed the soldiers. Selling the dish in the streets, they called out that it was ‘for the cause’ (por la causa), meaning for the liberation cause. Since then, la causa has become more than simply a dish; it’s a tribute It graces both humble tables and elegant banquets It reminds us that in Peru, food is also resilience, love and a spark of genius.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1.Boil potatoes with the skin, peel them while warm and mash them.

2.Mix the mashed potatoes with ají amarillo, lime juice, salt and oil until smooth and firm.

3.In a separate bowl, mix the tuna with mayonnaise

4.In a mould (or food ring), layer mashed potato, then the tuna mix, and top with more potato.

5.Garnish with avocado, egg, olives, mayo and parsley. Serve cold.

(If you prefer, you can replace fresh tuna with boiled and shredded chicken).

Antonio Melgar

A Courtyard Serenade Dining at Romeo Lane Restaurant Review

Romeo Lane The Courtyard House in Landour offers more than just a scenic escape; it’s a full sensory experience The restaurant here is a hidden gem, known for its elegant courtyard setting and a menu that blends comfort with sophistication. One standout dish is the mushroom risotto, praised for its creamy texture, rich umami flavour and perfectly cooked rice that makes it a must-try for anyone craving European-style indulgence in the hills But what truly elevates the vibe is the live entertainment. Whether it's acoustic sessions or curated performances, the music adds a soulful rhythm to your meal, making evenings at Romeo Lane feel like a celebration The combination of great food, warm ambience and live tunes creates a memorable dining experience that lingers long after the last bite.

If you're in Landour and looking for a place that blends charm, flavour and atmosphere, Romeo Lane The Courtyard House hits all the right notes

Eldri Meintjes

The Wedding People is a beautifully written novel that blends emotional depth with a light, engaging tone. Set during a multiday wedding celebration, the story feels incredibly relatable, especially for readers familiar with Indian weddings, which are just as extravagant, emotional and full of unexpected moments The book introduces a cast of compelling characters, each with their own story, struggles and secrets What stands out most is how easily they open up to Phoebe, the protagonist. As a stranger, she becomes a safe space for others, a reminder of how sometimes it’s easier to confide in someone outside your circle rather than in those closest to you Phoebe’s quiet battle with depression and her need to please others strikes a chord. It’s a reality many women face; constantly trying to meet expectations and keep others happy. Espach handles this with sensitivity, showing how these pressures shape identity and relationships

Book Review

One of the most powerful messages in the book is that there’s no fixed timeline to life You can do everything ‘right’ and still find yourself divorced, alone, or starting over. Everyone is on their own journey, and The Wedding People encourages readers to embrace that truth with grace. Despite tackling serious themes like mental health, identity and societal pressure, the book remains a light and comfortable read. Espach’s writing is warm, accessible and often humorous, making space for reflection without ever feeling heavy. Ultimately, The Wedding People is not just about a wedding; it’s about connection, vulnerability and the courage to live life on your own terms

Improv is Now: Lessons in SayingYes to Life and Loss

Returning home for the summer, I quickly went back to work meeting friends and family at a frenetic pace I socialized not so much for enjoyment but almost as an attempt not to be forgotten. I was pushing my way back into the mix of relationships and scenes – pushing, as I’ve learned to do here, through crowded streets, busy trains or governmental procedures Amidst all this pushing, I began to hear whispers of farewell to a beloved teacher from the acting community I’d once been part of. The whispers weren’t clear, and I wasn’t ready to hear them, so I kept moving forward in my mission to reconnect Eventually, the farewell that everyone else had been preparing for – everyone except me – was at hand.

I approached an acting acquaintance and demanded clarity. ‘I’m sorry you have to learn of it this way.’ People in my region are known for saying things gently But I needed directness, so I pushed: ‘Dave Kapplehoff died of cancer’

I felt guilty for not knowing sooner, for missing the gradual way others had said their goodbyes The social media network I rely on to keep ties warm is beginning to fray, and that fraying left me out of the loop. My old actor friends had processed their grief over time; I had just returned, only to be hit with the finality of loss

This piece is a tribute to my improvisational acting teacher, Kapplehoff He inspired me to become an improv teacher at the oldest satirical comedy theater in the country and to form a team that performed in New York City. His lessons launched improv off the stage and into my everyday life.

Saying ‘Yes’ as a Philosophy

In improv, actors must embrace what others bring to the stage. Yet in life, we often resist ‘yes’. Some wait for the right time – a time that may never come Others hesitate because of past choices, or they hold back, hoping for more information to make the ‘perfect’ decision Kapplehoff reminded us: ‘Improv is now – not yesterday, not tomorrow.’ Too often in life I preferred to say ‘maybe’. ‘Maybe’ to starting a business, ‘just hold’ on having kids, or ‘next year’ for moving to India. I wanted to stall, to wait for certainty. But improv – and Kapplehoff – taught me the bravery of saying ‘yes’.

Saying ‘Yes, and…’ as a Philosophy

But ‘yes’ is only the beginning In improv, we don’t just accept what’s offered; we build on it Saying ‘yes’ isn’t blind agreement; it’s acknowledging the moment Adding ‘and’ is how we take that moment further ‘Yes, and…’ gives us both courage and creativity. It reminds us that while we don’t control the whole scene, we can shape our part. On stage, this turns sparks into stories. Off stage, it transforms hesitation into momentum, and isolation into connection.

Improv is more than comedy; it’s a practice in presence, creativity and collaboration It’s about finding joy in uncertainty, trust in others and boldness in yourself. If this speaks to you, come talk to me. Maybe we can form a staff passage. You don’t need acting experience. Just curiosity and a willingness to say ‘yes, an

Alex Cleberg

Professional Development

I’m excited to share some recent professional experiences that highlight how our college counselling team at Woodstock continues to grow, stay informed and remain closely connected with the ever-evolving landscape of higher education. This summer, I had the privilege of participating in the prestigious Golden Gate Counsellor Tour, an invitation-only event held once every two years As part of the tour, I visited several of California’s top institutions, including Stanford University, UC Berkeley, UC Davis and UC Santa Cruz, as well as two leading community colleges It was incredibly inspiring to see how familiar these institutions are with Woodstock School, and many spoke very highly of our students and the values we uphold In addition, I was invited by Rice University in Houston, Texas, for a two-day counsellor workshop and campus immersion experience Out of 130 international counsellors selected, only two of us were from India, a fact that reflects Woodstock’s growing recognition on the global stage I also attended the annual International ACAC Conference in Boston This is the largest and most influential gathering for university admissions professionals and college counsellors worldwide These opportunities not only allow us to build meaningful relationships with universities but also enable us to bring back valuable insights and best practices to better support our students.

At Woodstock, we believe that staying informed, connected and proactive is essential to guiding our students toward their goals. Whether it’s navigating the application process, exploring global opportunities or finding the best-fit pathway after graduation, our counselling office is committed to being a constant and evolving support system.

As we begin the new school year, college counsellors, along with the academic coordinators, have been actively meeting with Grade 11 students and their families to support subject selection and academic planning At the same time, the College Counselling department has already started working closely with our Grade 12 students, who are gearing up to apply to universities around the world soon – a crucial and exciting phase of their journey

Writers’ Club

She talks about Europe like she’s been there in her dreams. Like she’s licked the salt off its coasts, torn into bread still steaming in some Paris morning, peeked through Venetian windows where linen curtains carry the smell of tidewater and time itself.

She’s never gone. Her passport’s still a clean slate, just sitting there, silent proof of how bad she wants out.

But she’s lived it, in dog-eared paperbacks that reek of someone else’s storms, in a fisherman’s story traded for coffee by a stranger just passing through, in her friend’s late-night story of some northern street, quiet, past midnight, takeaway boxes tumbling in the wind, a lone fox ghosting between parked cars.

She builds cities in her head, not of cathedrals or selfie sticks, but kitchens where garlic hits hot oil and someone hums without realizing, beaches where kids tear across the sand and waves smack their ankles like playful brats, grandmothers on balconies rocking gently to a world that refuses to rush. And though her feet have only known the stubborn dust of home, she feels it, not the urge to visit, but to belong.

One day, she says, I’ll stand where words trip off my tongue and laughter just picks me up, carries me.

I’ll find a corner cafe and stay until they forget I was ever new here. Until then, she shuts her eyes, and a continent unfurls, rain on old stone, trains humming through dawn, a pub fire cracking somewhere past the moors, the sea breathing against a rugged coast, alive, and waiting.

| CFI UNIMA Puppet Lab

| OB Weekend

| MY&UY Hike to Bear Hill

| All-School Chapel

| Kimoi Village Service

| AR&RWD Outing to Pacific Mall | SAT Exams

| 5-A-Side Football Tournament

| Invitational Cross Country

Oct | Gail @ Scotch College Australia

| UY Bazaar Day

| Basketball @ Asian School Dehra Dun

| Invitational Badminton

| UY Talent Show

From the Comms Dept: Master the Shot

You don’t need a fancy camera to take stunning photos; your smartphone is more than capable. Here are some easy, beginner-friendly tips to level up your mobile photography skills

Quick & Effective Mobile Photography Tips:

Shoot in single orientation – Always take photos of one event in a single orientation, whether vertical or horizontal

Use 4:3 aspect ratio – Set your phone on 4:3 aspect ratio permanently, to avoid cropping of images while posting on social media.

Clean your lens – A smudged lens = blurry photos. Give it a quick wipe with a microfibre cloth before shooting

Use gridlines – Turn on gridlines in your camera settings to follow the ‘Rule of Thirds’ This helps with balanced composition

Find good lighting – Natural light is your best friend. Avoid harsh overhead lights and use window light or ‘golden-hour glow’ for softer effects.

Keep it steady – Use both hands or rest your phone on a stable surface to avoid motion blur

Bonus: try burst mode for action shots

Tap to focus – Tap on your subject to ensure it is sharp and well-lit Most phones also let you adjust exposure by sliding up/down after tapping.

Avoid zooming in – Digital zoom reduces quality. Instead, move closer to your subject, or crop the h l