The Canfordian - 2024/25 edition

Canfordian The 2024/25

This is an abridged version of the speech delivered by the Headmaster at Speech Day on 27 June 2025.

Dale Carnegie perceptively observed, ‘One of the most tragic things I know about human nature is that all of us tend to put off living. We are all dreaming of some magical rose garden over the horizon instead of enjoying the roses that are blooming outside our windows today.’ How true those words are in so many ways! We are constantly looking ahead to the next thing – and so often we miss or fail to appreciate so many important things and people as a result.

Prospective parents often ask me, ‘What is the value of a Canford education?’ Often there is a fixation on the future when that question is asked, so my answers usually focus on the many experiences and skills a pupil will put in their ‘bag of tools’ alongside developing the character, qualities and confidence to use them in different ways at different times of life. But importantly, I will also stress how, in this wonderful community, there is so much to embrace and enjoy in the present, too.

I will emphasise that the process is equally as important as the outcome, so taking joy from the moment, being flexible and adaptable and making the most of the landscape you are in is as important as the focus on the distant lands you may wish to visit in the future. I mean it, even if I myself have more to do to walk the talk on that one!

The Canford values – purposeful engagement, courageous attitude, humble ambition and gracious leadership – serve as compass points in this regard as we navigate both the present and the future. They have certainly been valuable touchstones for me in my time here and as I enter a new phase of life

So, just as I am looking ahead with excitement and some trepidation, I am endeavouring to appreciate all I have had and what I have now. And I

would say to our leavers: be bold, break the mould and embrace new horizons, but keep perspective and draw sustenance and strength from all you do have in the present – and you all have so much to draw on, individually and together. My warmest wishes to you all as you move on to new things and different places – you will always be in the hearts of Canford and its community.

And now from me some thank-yous. Being a school governor is a volunteer role; people do it because they care. It is tough, timeconsuming and often unsung, but it is critical. Canford and I have been truly blessed with our Governing Body Chairs over the past twelve years – Tony Cotttam, David Levin and Sir Gary Coward – and we have also been incredibly fortunate with the quality, commitment and expertise of our Governing Body members. Canford is in such a strong position at this time due largely to the perceptive and sharply focused strategic thinking, planning and decision-making by them over these years, and I thank them for all the time, effort and commitment they give to Canford.

I would also like to pay tribute to the amazing staff we have at Canford across all educational and support areas. Their hard work and dedication, always giving that bit extra, and the care and love they show in supporting and developing the pupils, makes this community what it is. I will miss all my colleagues deeply and thank them for the friendship and support they have given to me over the past twelve years.

Finally, my thanks to all the parents and pupils here today, and to those who are not here. The partnerships and relationships that we – the staff and the Governing Body – engage in with all of you are critical and important in so many ways. Together, we have all helped to shape and make the Canford community, and all it stands for, such a wonderful entity.

Speech Day

Tom Webster Art Prize

Hettie Lloyd

Fine Art

Millie Martin

Painting

Hannah Jeffery

Design Technology

Amelia Frost

Classical Civilisation

Madeleine Brown, Rory Gibson

Spanish

Rory Gibson

French

Gianluca Cambone

German

Julie Arthur-Krebs

English

Myra Malinga

Philosophy and Theology

Myra Malinga, Grace Cecil-Wright

Jones Prize for Politics

Inca Benton-Jones

History

Inca Benton-Jones

Geography

Francesca Hensher

Economics

Julie Arthur-Krebs, Archie Jones

Business Studies

Elvis Komo

Sports Science

Imogen Whitehead

Chemistry

Jiaming (Thomas) Wang

Hankinson Prize for Biology

Lucy Vrettos

Halahan Prize for Natural History

Jerry Chen

Physics

Gabriel Vandvik

Mathematics

Archie Jones

Further Maths

Arjun Fan

John Gilhooly Quaich for Computing

Arjun Fan

Acting

Gianluca Cambone

Drama

Molly Rodber

Theatre Studies (Technical)

Thomas Low

Eddy Prize for Music

Thomas Covell

School Prize for Music

Adrian Chan

Michael James Prize for Singing

Grace Cecil-Wright

Creative Writing

Alex Pan

Edna Adams Trophy for Debating

Amelie Wright, Elliot Walter

FCS Prize for Journalism

Gabriel Vandvik

Hardie Prize for Academic Excellence

Sam Askew, Isabelle Aston, Freya Barrington, Murray Carswell, Philip Chen, Tom Fox-Pitt, Jago Holden, Julie Lu, Eliza Miller, William Vessey, Woody Woods

Headmaster’s Prize for Academic Achievement

Emilia Bell, Barton Brew-Wiredu, Luke Brice, Portia Carrell, Anton Cox, Isaac Hung, Isabel Hurd-Wood, Leon Keating, Melisa Kose

The Peter Dugdale Cup for Service to the Local Community

Myra Malinga

The Peter Dugdale Cup for Community Partnerships Overseas

Lottie Heyman, Lucy Vrettos

FCS Community Outreach Prize

Hester Child

Sports Awards

Leo Vorobyev, Layla Stannah

Clive Mayer Memorial Trophy

Sophia Smith

The CCF Benner Award

Jack Flegg

Sam Wolstenhulme Prize

Rory Gibson

Tom Nash Memorial (Gap Year)

William Vessey

Sophie Johnson Prizes

Izzy Balasubramaniam, Jemima Chappell, Katie Clark, Suzy Cribb, Harriet Doherty, Amy Frampton, Susie Jones, Daisy Lewis, Megan Mowbray, Grace Nicol, Olive Smith, Verity Warner, Bea Woodward

Holford Prizes

RaIph Allen, Isaac Ameyaw, Jack Bartholomew, Jasper Bowley, Oscar Burdin, Dani Chessher, Noah Dance, James Dornan, Adam Driver, Will Fearnley, James Hatherley, Jack Jones, Gabe O’Donnell, Charlie Pallot, Freddie Pearce, Jake Stewart, Harry Todd, Sam Wilmot, Joey Zhou

Heads of School

George Guirdham, Melisa Kose, William Vessey, Lucy Vrettos

PUPIL LEADERS

House Leaders

Imogen Whitehead, Gabriel O’Donnell, Layla Stannah, Tom Fox-Pitt, Woody Woods, Isobel Balasubramaniam, Amelia Frost, Rory Gibson, Anton Cox, Georgia Webb, Leo Vorobyev, Toby Connolly, Charlotte Parkin

Academic

Ralph Allen, Inca Benton-Jones, Grace Cecil-Wright, Fran Hensher, Hannah Jeffery, James Lee, Eliza Miller, Gabriel Vandvik

Global Connections

Isabelle Aston

EDI

Layla Ferguson, Isaac Hung

Wellbeing

Xan Brookes, Isla Young

Drama

Gianluca Cambone, Molly Rodber

International

Julie Arthur-Krebs

Environmental Amelie Wright

Creative Arts

Serena Gow, Hettie Lloyd

Sport

Tom Barrett, Izzy Jeffries

Community Service and City Reach

Hester Child, Myra Malinga

Selection and Futures

Jemima Chappell, Lucy Wiggins

Social

Ciaran Amy

Music

Adrian Chan

CCF

Jack Flegg

Speech Day

Ben Vessey, Headmaster 2013-2025

A tribute from Sir Gary Coward

Iknew when I took over from David Levin as Chair of the Governing Body that Ben was planning on leaving at the end of this year. It is typical of the kind and far-sighted man that he gave us plenty of time to tee up a successor. And ever since then he has continued to fire on all cylinders, showing what a superb, resilient and compassionate leader he is, and will no doubt continue to be long after he has moved on from Canford.

Canford has been blessed to have Ben at the helm for the last twelve years. To quote another governor, ‘The school was “average” when he joined, and it is now one of the foremost coeducational boarding/day schools in the country.’ He leaves the school poised to take advantage of his superb stewardship and to flourish in the decades to come.

In the Sunday Times Parent Power Schools Guide 2025, Canford was listed as the no. 1 co-ed independent boarding and day school for A Level and GCSE performance in the southwest. Under his leadership, the school has regularly featured as a finalist or category winner (CCF, Wellbeing and Mental Health, and Local Partnerships and Community) with the Times Educational Supplement (TES), Talk Education, Independent School Parent, School House, The Week Independent Schools Guide, the Boarding Schools Association and even Muddy Stilettos. Special recognition came from the TES under the Strategic Education Initiative in 2021, reflecting the school’s college programme during the pandemic. Whilst the whole crew has helped Ben steer this ship to such accolades, it is the Head who must accept the lion’s share of the credit.

Whoever I asked about Ben has come back with platitudes: wonderfully kind and considerate family man, likes his books, golf, cuff links and dogs. Gets on famously with everyone in the school and wider community (save perhaps a few neighbours when we announced that we were selling Oakley Field for housing development). Surely, he will have misspoken, failed to attend, turned up late, worn the wrong rig or even told a blue joke in the wrong surroundings? But no, he is the squeaky clean, masterful, dedicated headteacher, strategic thinker and tireless governor at so many other schools (but notably at the Bourne Academy). We have much to thank Ben for and will miss his presence around the school for some time to come.

The same applies to Harriet, Mrs Headmaster, the other half of this superb team that has been the heart and soul of Canford for a dozen years. Everyone here will have salivated over her parmiers (savoury biscuits) and enjoyed the warm hospitality of the Head’s House. But Harriet has not just been the hostess with the mostest, she has played a pivotal role around the school as a librarian and brilliant ambassador, sweettalking pupils, parents and staff as they come into her stellar orbit. Every ending gives rise to a beginning. That’s the rhythm of life in school – and of life itself. So it is not with sadness, but with gratitude – for what we have shared, what we have learned, and what lies ahead – that we wish you well in your next chapter, Ben and Harriet. May it be as long, rewarding and successful as this one has been.

Twelve years of outstanding leadership remembered in photographs

Ever the participator!

A few of the many national accolades awarded to Canford under Ben Vessey’s leadership

Winner: Public School of the Year – Tatler (2019)

Winner: Boarding School of the Year –Independent School Parent (2018)

Winner: Wellbeing and Mental Health Initiative –Boarding Schools Association (2023)

Winner: Health and Wellbeing Champion for All Round Excellence – Health in Education Association (2023)

Winner: Local Partnerships and Community –School House (2023)

Winner: Best School CCF – The Week Best of the Best Independent Schools (2020)

Finalist: Boarding School of the Year –Times Educational Supplement (2023)

Finalist: Innovation in Education – Talk Education (2023)

Finalist: Quality of Dr ama (Finalist) –Independent School Parent (2023)

Finalist: Thinking Beyond the Curriculum –Talk Education (2023)

Finalist: Or iginality in Creative Arts – Muddy Stilettos (2023)

Finalist: Str ategic Education Initiative, The College Programme during Covid-19 –Times Educational Supplement (2021)

Finalist: Quality of Music – Independent School Parent (2021)

Finalist: Whole School Community Initiative of the Year, The Bourne Academy Partnership –Times Educational Supplement (2019)

Salvete and Valete

MEMBERS OF THE ACADEMIC STAFF WHO JOINED IN 2024/25

James Belassie BA

James joined Canford as Assistant Director of Music in January 2025, from St Swithun’s School in Winchester. He studied piano in London while an undergraduate at Cambridge and is an experienced accompanist with an enthusiasm for chamber music. His free time is ideally spent by the sea, kayaking, sailing or exploring the Dorset coast.

Julia Bird BA

Julia joined Canford as Assistant Head College. She was previously the Assistant Head Sixth Form at Wells Cathedral School in Somerset, where she was responsible for the personal development and educational experience of all Sixth Form pupils, and their transition to an Upper Sixth day and boarding pastoral structure in their final year. Julia’s teaching career has been spent in schools both in the UK and Mexico. She has a degree in Psychology, Philosophy and Physiology from Worcester College, Oxford.

Rachel Dawick

MA, MDev, BA, PGCE

Rachel joined Canford in January in the English Department, moving across to the Drama Department in September. She has a teaching background in English and Drama, as well as Arts Management in New Zealand, Scotland and England. Rachel has worked as a full-time songwriter and performer for eight years, including performances at the Edinburgh International Fringe and the Chalke History Festival. She is currently working on an adaptation of one of her albums into a musical theatre show.

Sophie Fontes BA, PGCE

Sophie graduated from Newcastle University with a BA Hons before honing her creative skills at Bridge House Art, Ullapool. Her teaching journey began informally in 2014, running an annual art camp in a Cheshire woodland, which inspired her to complete her PGCE at Manchester Metropolitan University in 2022. She enjoys the physicality and delight of working in a variety of mediums, but her own practice is often rooted in drawing and painting: two mediums she finds endlessly fascinating.

Rebecca Heritage

BA, PGDip

Rebecca joined Canford as Safeguarding Officer, to provide a wide range of support to pupils. Her expertise spans mental health, family relationships, anxiety, navigating friendships and positive thinking, and she has a particular interest and specialist training in attachment and trauma. She previously worked at CAMHS for nearly two years as a mental health social worker and spent seven years as a frontline children’s social worker.

William Ings MA, PGCE

Will joined Canford as Director of Music from a similar role at Godolphin School in Salisbury. Will’s musical education began as a chorister at Salisbury Cathedral, after which he was a music scholar at Lancing College, and organ and choral scholar at Portsmouth Cathedral for his gap year before reading music at Cambridge University.

James Leigh BA, MA Res, MSc

James joined Canford as a History teacher and housemaster of Lancaster after a decade at Reading Blue Coat School in Berkshire. He has a Masters in Learning and Teaching from Oxford University, and undergraduate and Masters degrees in History from Southampton and Reading. Away from the classroom, James is a keen endurance sport athlete, having been an elite-level rower and an Iron-distance triathlete, qualifying for European Championship event while representing the Great Britain age-group team.

Ross Maggs BA, Med, PGCE

Ross joined Canford as Head of Politics from BHASVIC sixth-form college in Brighton, where he led the American Politics branch of the Politics course. His career has spanned time in both independent and state schools. Ross holds a combined honours degree in Politics and American Studies from the University of Nottingham, which included a year studying in the USA at the University of Illinois, and a Masters in Politics, Development and Democratic Education from Jesus College, Cambridge. At Canford he also coaches rugby and athletics and is a tutor in Franklin.

CANFORD’S NEW HEADMASTER

Chris Wheeler

Chris Wheeler is a highly experienced leader and Canford is his fourth independent school headship. He joined in September 2025 from his position as Principal of the Monkton Family of Schools in Bath, having previously served as CEO of Hillcrest International School and Headmaster of St Christopher’s (part of the Brighton College Family of Schools). Before becoming a Head, he worked at Brighton College, Peponi Secondary and St John’s, Leatherhead, in various roles including Deputy Head, Housemaster and Head of English.

Educated at Winchester College, Durham and Bristol Universities with an MBA in Educational Leadership and Administration from UCL, he is currently chair of the Institute of Boarding, chair of the Education Committee as a governor at Stowe and a member of the HMC Finance and Risk Committee. He will be chair of the Boarding Schools’ Association (BSA) in 2027 and has previously served as vice-chair of HMC, chair of HMC South West Division and a member of the HMC Inspection Sub-Committee.

Chris is married to Georgie and they have three children.

On taking up the post, he said: ‘I am honoured to have been appointed as Canford’s next Headmaster. During the interview process I was struck by the strength and warmth of the school community alongside a very evident sense of purpose and culture of ambition among all the pupils, staff and governors I met. I am delighted to have joined the Canford Community with my family and look forward to building on the success of the school to date.’

MEMBERS OF THE ACADEMIC STAFF WHO LEFT IN 2024/25

Emma Bennett

Emma was the first Head of Tennis at Canford and a level 3 coach. She always expected high standards from pupils when representing the school and they always adhered to this, because of their great respect for her. There is no doubt that tennis at Canford is far richer for the years of dedication and commitment she brought to it.

Emma broke down barriers of female coaches taking male teams with great success. She helped coach boys and girls, including first teams in hockey, but wherever she turned her hand, it was much to the pupils’ benefit.

Emma’s impact on the school in her time here is almost too great to list, at least in the space I have here. For ten of her eleven years at the school, Emma was the assistant housemistress in de Lacy, where she was a much-loved tutor and member of the house team. She supported the early development of the EDI programme, gave great support to pupils as a role model and is an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. Emma is willing to challenge the establishment with incredible integrity, and she has great energy to drive equality.

Emma always showed a great willingness to give up her own time to support trips, including Argentina, showing nothing but willingness to get stuck in and make an impact on the communities they were going to help. She threw herself in and was willing to graft, looking to bring joy to the children in the orphanage but also to our own pupils.

But Emma’s greatest asset is not what she did for the school, but the person she was while doing it: her enthusiasm and passion for what she does; the care and support she gave to the pupils; her straight-talking, no-nonsense approach to things; and her friendly and sociable nature. She is sunshine in human form and we will really miss her.

Melissa Clinton

Fran Compan & Monica Garcia

When I think of Fran and Monica, I picture a couple always impeccably dressed, exuding quiet class and committed to their craft. They are outstanding academics who have guided generations of Canfordians on their journey with Spanish –always with excellence, integrity and passion.

They have consistently helped pupils to reach the highest levels – no small feat, especially in a climate where foreign languages are often undervalued in national educational priorities. They inspired and prepared a constant flow of applicants to Oxbridge, with a 70% success rate at Cambridge. Their professionalism is matched by their warmth –inspiring a genuine love for Spanish and giving pupils far more than just grammar or vocabulary. They nurtured open minds, sparked curiosity and taught their students not to simply tick boxes, but to embrace learning as a transformative experience. To think deeply. To celebrate difference. To see the world beyond exams.

To me, Fran has always been the white version of Barack Obama: classy, calm, cool and diligent. Beyond the classroom, he has been a key figure in the swimming programme and a rock of Monteacute boarding life back in the days when the housemaster lived next door in a detached house and he was on call every night. He was unflappable and always generous with his time.

Monica’s influence goes far beyond the classroom. She gently guided sixth-formers to contribute to Hispanista, her magazine where she cleverly lured them into refining their research skills and their choices, and taught them to structure arguments – whether in English or Spanish – and to be critical. The point was to make them grow and to empower them to make the jump between GCSEs and A Level whilst having fun, doing something outside the curriculum. Her ability to build confidence in others is remarkable. Her house tutees in Wimborne, academic tutees and pupils dearly valued and clearly loved her.

Both Fr an and Monica helped shape a whole culture of language learning at Canford – and let’s not forget the famous pre-leavers’ ball drinks, a tradition her Upper Sixth wouldn’t have missed for anything.

I’m thr illed that Fran is stepping into a Head of MFL role in a school where Spanish, French, German, Russian and Mandarin are all timetabled and given equal status. That sounds like music to my ears. Wellington are lucky to have him. Monica has a contract lined up, and I have no doubt that Wellington will be her next home in no time. This move feels exactly right for them.

Muchisimas gracias para todo.

Marianne Marns

Ian Dryden

After two decades of outstanding service as Director of Rowing at Canford, Ian Dryden now leaves to take up his new role as head coach at Bournemouth University Boat Club. His departure marks the end of an exceptional era in which he has shaped not only the fortunes of Canford rowing but also the lives of hundreds of pupils who have been part of the boat club during his tenure.

During his time at Canford, Ian has guided on average more than 100 pupils through the boat club each year, making rowing one of the school’s most popular and successful sports. His dedication and expertise have nurtured both beginners and high achievers, with pupils recognised at national and international level. Sixteen junior internationals have represented Team GB, all of whom have gone on to win medals at prestigious events.

Ian’s leadership has brought significant achievements at Henley Royal Regatta, the Schools Head of the River and the National Schools Regatta, where Canford crews have celebrated honours and medals in a variety of boat classes for both boys and girls.

Beyond the results, Ian’s greatest contribution has been the opportunity he has given countless Canfordians to develop, whether rowing recreationally or competitively. Ian has also invested in the development of his coaching staff and graduate assistants, many of whom have gone on to senior roles in governing bodies or school programmes. His careful planning and energy have ensured the smooth running of training camps and of the complex logistics of races across the UK and abroad.

Ian’s commitment extends beyond Canford, through his work with the Canford Crocodiles community club and his encouragement of parental involvement, which now sees parent crews racing at the House Regatta.

His commitment, enthusiasm and vision have left an indelible mark on Canford rowing and on the wider cocurricular life of the school. Ian departs with our gratitude, admiration and warmest wishes for continued success in his new role.

Charlotte Toogood

Rob

Hoey

We say farewell to a truly remarkable member of our school community, who joined us in 2019 as a teacher of Maths after an impressive career as a Major in the British Army. From the moment he arrived, it was clear we were gaining not just a mathematician but a leader, adventurer and mentor. Rob brought with him the precision of an engineer –honed at Robinson College, Cambridge – and the discipline of military service. But he also brought a deep love for the outdoors, a passion that has inspired countless students. As Head of Adventure, a role created for him, he led unforgettable

expeditions, from windswept hills to rugged coastlines, always with a compass in his hand and a grin on his face. Whether it was mountain hiking, skiing or walking, he showed us that challenge is something to be embraced, not avoided. He instilled values of resilience, teamwork and integrity, and his calm authority and genuine care earned the respect of cadets and staff alike.

Beyond the classroom and the parade ground, Rob is a man of extraordinary achievements. A Cambridge sailing blue, a former member of the GB keelboat squad, and a RYA Yachtmaster who has sailed across the Atlantic, he has lived the adventures most of us only dream of. Yet he has always been humble, always focused on helping others find their own path.

In the Maths Department, he brought clarity, patience and a quiet enthusiasm that made even the most complex equations feel manageable. He challenged us, guided us and inspired us. As he sets off on his next adventure in Milan with his family, he leaves behind a legacy of courage, curiosity and kindness.

David Neill

Nicola Hunter

Deputy Head Pastoral sounds like a lovely job, all fluffy and, well, ‘pastoral’. In reality the job is extremely tough because while the main focus is on making sure the pupils are OK, it often involves dealing with the misdemeanours which teenagers find themselves getting up to when they are not OK.

I know, though, that humour has occasionally saved the day, and my professional connection with Nick has also provided her with much amusement at times. Two very naughty girls in Marriotts were frequently in trouble, but one of our favourite episodes was when they stole into the Assembly Hall when no-one was around, while the hall was set up for public exams, and wrote lovely notes on the backs of chairs – ‘Good luck’, ‘You can do it’, heart emojis.

This gave me the idea to ask them to write a farewell card for Nick. I wondered how this would go – I was about to ask them to write a lovely card to someone who has given more detentions and demerits to them than anyone else. I said to one of them, ‘I know Mrs Hunter has given you lots of demerits, but…’ She cut me off there and said, ‘But I love her.’ I looked incredulous and the girl again said, ‘No, honestly, I really love her.’

So Nick has an extraordinary way of disciplining pupils, but also of being liked and respected by them. This is a hard line to tread and she has been expert at it.

Nick’s job title should also have included Deputy Head Pastoral for staff as well as pupils. She has shown the utmost care and understanding to staff who have needed support, and she has been the most compassionate, as well as impressive, colleague: level-headed, with buckets of common sense in this mad world.

We wish her all the very best for the future and know that wherever she is and whatever she ends up doing, she will touch the lives of everyone she connects with.

Katie Salmon

Rikki Jackson

After five vibrant and inspiring years, we bid a fond farewell to Rikki Jackson, Head of Drama, whose impact on Canford has been nothing short of transformational. From the outset, he brought with him a clear vision: to make drama accessible to all, while upholding the academic rigour of the department.

Even the early challenge of lockdowns and online teaching could not dim his enthusiasm. His first production, Chatroom by Enda Walsh, was a masterclass in socially distanced performance – a sign of the ingenuity and determination to come. Soon after, Rikki raised the bar with a string of outstanding productions, beginning with the musical Little Shop of Horrors and followed by a magical and moving rendition of Into the Woods.

His passion for performance, and for pushing creative boundaries, became a hallmark of his work. Drawing inspiration from Kneehigh Theatre, Rikki brought us many unforgettable experiences over his years at the school: a gritty Peter Pan, a technically poignant Brief Encounter, a laugh-out-loud One Man, Two Guvnors, and the anarchic brilliance of Dead Dog in a Suitcase. Rikki also founded the beloved Friday Foyer, a monthly showcase of student creativity and quirk, which quickly became a favourite event in the school calendar.

Thanks to his passion and vision, drama at Canford became a space where students felt free to explore, take risks and share their stories. Now off to Hanoi, Vietnam to reunite with his wife, Ann, Rikki leaves behind a legacy of creativity, inclusivity and excellence.

Helen Ryan

Catherine Perkins

Kate has been brilliant to work with as she is generous with her time and ideas, constantly producing a stream of possible ways to engage pupils and raise the profile of Classics, about which she is passionate.

Before we even get to her teaching in our department, Kate has taught Shells the potentially dangerous skill of rhetoric in MUN, helped with primary school Spanish classes, brought Hebrew into PES and accompanied pupils to High Mead Farm. As equally accomplished a musician as she is a linguist, Kate has also sung with both the Chapel and Chamber Choirs and played the cello in the school orchestra.

Kate has been first-class as a tutor in Beaufort, writing her tutees words of encouragement at key moments in the school year and acting as their ally when they needed it most. She baked them cookies and brownies and even brought her cat into house on request when some ‘de-stressing’ was required.

As a member of the Classics Depar tment, in addition to producing amazingly thorough and innovative resources for her GCSE and A Level Latin classes, she has also enthused classes of A Level Classical Civilisation pupils and brought the department, briefly, into the 21st century by putting us on Instagram.

I have thoroughly enjoyed her company on trips to Fishbourne and the British Museum, but most particularly to Athens and to Rome. She relishes a grammar problem (a massively underrated personality trait) and I would also recommend spending time with her in any museum. This breadth is the beauty of Classics, and Kate’s skills complemented the knowledge already in the department perfectly. One A Level parent contacted me to let me know of the ‘gift’ Kate has given to her child.

In short, I shall miss her – although I know she will be back as a guest speaker once her doctorate is complete –and wish both her and Matthew all the very best for what is without doubt a bright future.

Anna Berry

Jack Shannon

Canford has been enchanted by Jack’s contribution over three years as ‘gaplain’, although he really had many identities. One of his greatest strengths is enthusiasm and he threw himself into so many different aspects of school life. Alongside his chaplaincy work, of which more later, he took up rugby, cricket and netball coaching (despite having no experience in any of them), not to mention Real tennis, where he completed a 24-hour charity marathon with Mr Jeffery. He was a resident tutor in the Tennis Court Lodge, first with Monteacute, then School House, as well as teaching Global Connections and helping with the Shine program.

However, it was into the theatre that Jack poured most of his energy. Jack brought creativity and imagination to so many productions and performances, not least those he has directed. His greatest hits have to be Woyzeck and Chairs, both incredibly powerful performances, brilliantly conceived and expertly directed. He also worked with aspiring script writers from the pupil body to oversee the Christmas pantomime.

In the chaplaincy team, Jack has been an outstanding assistant. In leading numerous Bible studies and preaching many times in Chapel, Jack’s gifts have developed brilliantly. He shares his faith in a winsome and engaging way, relating deep theological truths in an accessible way to our community, not least as he has grown into an accomplished preacher and an excellent teacher. His kind, compassionate and authentic presence will be missed, along with his ubiquitous smile and infectious laugh. We wish him well as he moves to become assistant youth pastor at the Lantern Church, a stone’s throw from Canford.

Phil Jack

Richard Wilson

After nearly 17 years at Canford, Richard leaves with our gratitude for all he has brought to the school community.

A talented linguist with a remarkable breadth of knowledge, Richard has been a passionate and dedicated teacher of German, French and English as an Additional Language, inspiring pupils through his infectious enthusiasm for languages. He has always gone above and beyond to support his students – whether through meticulous academic planning, thoughtful mentoring or the many opportunities he created for language learning to come alive beyond the classroom. His role in building the Other Languages programme, supporting international pupils and promoting global perspectives across the school, has made a lasting impact.

Richard’s kindness, warmth and generosity of spirit have made him a valued colleague. Whether mentoring staff, helping pupils with personal statements or coaching on the squash court, he has approached everything with thoughtfulness, professionalism and care. We are thankful for the years of dedication he has given to Canford and wish him all the very best for the future.

Ieuan Weir

Graduate Assistants

Alex England was a superb addition to the Canford hockey department. His eagerness to showcase his hockey skills were always on show and he made a great impact with all the players and coaches he engaged with.

Jack Foxton’s infectious energy and enthusiasm for rowing will be hugely missed. Jack has now taken up his new role at Shrewsbury School, where he will be starting teacher training and continuing to coach rowing.

Liv Franks’s passion, organisation and northern charm enriched Canford netball during the year. We wish her every success in her writing career, currently flourishing in media with London Pulse netball.

Jess Griffiths fitted into the Canford lifestyle very quickly and was an amazing asset to the hockey fraternity. Her skills were appreciated by the pupils and fellow coaches. She was very friendly and always had a smile on her face.

Fraser Minchella contributed heavily to Canford rugby this year, playing a pivotal role in the girls’ successful VIIs programme. He also set up a scrum half clinic, working with 9s of all age groups, and led the U14s in the XVs programme.

Tom Pipe’s love of all sport, but especially cricket, was infectious and rubbed off on the pupils. During the hours he spent in the winter with particularly the senior teams, he showed commitment and a positive attitude at every session.

DESTINATIONS OF LEAVERS

This is the best information at the time of going to press. All 2025 leavers going on to university are listed, including those who are not taking up their places until 2026.

Arts University, Bournemouth

Hannah Jeffery

Bath

Toby Connolly, Thomas Low, Verity Warner

Bristol

Ralph Allen, Ciaran Amy, Portia Carrell, Grace Cecil-Wright, Hester Child, Adam Driver, George Guirdham, Hettie Lloyd, Emily Martin, Oliver O’Brien, Georgia Webb, Imo Whitehead

Cambridge

Julie Arthur-Krebs, Arthur de Lisle

Cardiff

Will Allen, Thomas Covell, James Hatherley, Charlotte Parkin, Kiera Semple, Harry Serjeant, Jake Stewart

Durham

Melisa Kose, James Lee, Myra Malinga, Sophie Martins, Isabelle Aston, Archie Jones, Molly Rodber, Amelie Wright

Edinburgh Adomas Baksys, Rory Gibson

Exeter

Freya Barrington, Suzy Cribb, Millie Gardiner, Isabel Hurd-Wood, Jack Jones, Elvis Komo, Max Mackenzie, Eliza Miller, Megan Mowbray, Grace Nicol, Zara Sosic, Harry Harry Todd, Lucy Wiggins

Guildford School of Acting Gianluca Cambone

Imperial College, London

Jerry Chen, Phil Chen, Arjun Fan, Thomas Wang

King’s College, London

Luca Anstey Gray, Elliot Walter, Justin White

Lancaster

Gabriel Vandvik

Leeds

Sam Askew, Amelia Frost, Sylvio Moungabio, Gabe O’Donnell

Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts

Emi Bell

Loughborough

Jasper Bowley, Jack Flegg, Leo Vorobyev

Manchester

Dani Chessher, Paige DavisMcCluskie, Harriet Doherty, Noemi Du Ry Van Beest Holle, Amy Frampton, Isaac Hung

Newcastle

Jack Bartholomew, Charlie Pallot, Olive Smith, Layla Stannah

Nottingham

Oscar Burdin, Josie Corn, Jessica Coughlan Davis, Isabel Jeffries, Sam Wilson

Oxford

Inca Benton-Jones, Lucy Vrettos

Oxford Brookes

Finn Hunter Smart, Sophia Smith, Isla Young

Plymouth

Sam McGrath

Reading Isaac Ameyaw, Sam Calvert-Lee

Royal Holloway, London Noah Dance

Sheffield

James Dornan, Tom Fox-Pitt

Southampton

Poppy Benn, Thomas Camilleri, Leon Keating

St Andrews Jemima Chappell, Layla Ferguson

University College, London

Julie Lu, Alex Pan, Anton Cox

Warwick

Madeleine Brown, Murray Carswell, Jago Holden, Tim Ka

York

Charlotte Heyman, Daisy Lewis

Overseas

Barton Brew-Wiredu (Emory College, Georgia), Serena Gow (Syracuse University, New York)

Applying/re-applying next year

Izzy Balasubramaniam, Marisa Bamberg Fankhanel Silva, Tom Barrett, Luke Brice, Xan Brookes, Katie Clark, Bella Collier, Cara Coulson, Will Fearnley, Susie Jones, Rose Osborne-Young, Freddie Pearce, Felix Sheehan, Jack Shuttleworth, Will Vessey, Sam Webb, Sam Wilmot, Hugo Woods, Joey Zhou

The summer of 2025 brought fresh cause for celebration at Canford, with pupils at both A Level and GCSE reaffirming the school’s reputation for academic excellence and intellectual ambition. Their achievements speak not only of individual talent but also of a shared culture of perseverance, curiosity and mutual support that lies at the very heart of our learning community.

At A Level, the Upper Sixth once again distinguished themselves. Over half of all grades awarded were A*/A, with nearly a quarter at the highest A* level, significantly above both national and independent school averages. These results have opened doors to some of the very best higher educational establishments: over 90% of the cohort are progressing to Russell Group and Sunday Times Top 12 universities, with four bound for Cambridge and two for Oxford, while others are embarking on pathways to medicine, veterinary science and prestigious US universities.

The GCSE results tell an equally uplifting story. Nearly a third of all grades were awarded at grade 9 (the most in the school’s history), with more than half at 9 or 8. Again, this placed Canford pupils far ahead of national averages and the independent sector at large. These top grades were secured across the board in subjects as diverse as History, Latin, Physics, Drama, English, Maths and Philosophy and Theology. Five pupils achieved a flawless sweep of grade 9s, while more than a third of the year group averaged grade 8 or higher across their subjects. Yet the triumph lies not only in such headline statistics: the pupil who raised a predicted grade 4 to a secure a grade 6 embodies the same spirit of

determination and growth that is cherished at Canford and deserves equal levels of praise. Our culture is one where every success, whether apparently modest or spectacular, is both recognised and celebrated.

Canford’s strength lies in its ability to unite academic distinction with the wider character of a vibrant, outward-looking community. We will never be an overly examination-focussed ‘hothouse’, for academic life extends far beyond the exam hall. For many, the true rewards lie in the intellectual journey itself – the thrill of grappling with a challenging idea, or the satisfaction of expressing a thought with clarity and precision. While we rightly celebrate the excellent examination results, it is even more important that pupils continue to nurture the resilience, curiosity and love of learning that will serve them throughout their lives.

cademic

This year, we have been especially impressed by the Shells, whose determination and energy have helped them to settle in with confidence and purpose. The stunning public examination results of the 2025 A Level and GCSE cohorts reflect not only past effort but also future promise. May Canford’s flourishing culture of scholarship, ambition and joy in learning long continue.

Ieuan Weir

Biology

It has been another good academic season for the Biology Department. There was plenty of public exam success in the A Level cohort, with seven pupils gaining a place on medicine or veterinary medicine courses. Congratulations to all our departing Upper Sixth pupils on their excellent work ethic and camaraderie throughout their time on the A Level course. Notable success was also seen at GCSE level – the future of our proud record of Biology success is in safe hands.

A particular highlight of the academic year was the achievement of Kunwho P (Lower Sixth), who at the Cell Bio 2024 conference in San Diego presented his academic paper entitled ‘Fluoroquinolone Resistance in Salmonella typhi: Analysis of qnrABS Resistance Genes’, which was also published in the prestigious Journal of the American Society for Cell Biology. This is a serious achievement for a scientist of his age and points to a very promising future in the field of biomedical science – a course he hopes to pursue at university.

Work such as this is vitally important, as solutions to many of humanity’s biggest challenges that we will face in the coming decades will require concerted progress in the varied fields of life sciences, from our ability to improve medical care and to develop effective vaccines as protection from emerging pathogens, through to our capacity to produce sufficient food to feed our ever-growing population while preventing a potentially disastrous decline in global biodiversity and precious natural environments.

Against a geopolitical backdrop of ever-increasing scepticism and distrust of science, and an increasingly fractured scene of international cooperation, plus of course outright warfare on a scale we have not seen for a generation, it is vital that our young people re-establish the status and importance of scientific pursuit for the benefit of us all.

Nick Warde

Chemistry

The Chemistry Department has much to celebrate this year, with pupils continuing to excel. At A Level, the results were nothing short of outstanding: 36% of all grades were at A*, and two-thirds of entries gained an A or A*. Adding to these superb achievements, Thomas W was awarded a gold certificate in the prestigious Royal Society of Chemistry Olympiad, while Lower Sixth pupils Cameron C and Gabe D proudly received silver certificates. Kunwho P was the only Lower Sixth to achieve a gold award in the Lower Sixth Cambridge Chemistry Challenge. At GCSE, pupils matched this success with 27% of grades at a coveted grade 9, and over half the cohort (56%) achieving a grade 9 or 8. These remarkable results are a tribute not only to the determination and ambition of our pupils but also to the commitment and expertise of the department’s teachers.

Behind the statistics lies a vibrant and constantly evolving classroom experience. In my 25 years of teaching, I have never seen so much change in such a short time. Today, pupils are bombarded with distractions and we must compete for their attention. The ban on phones in lessons remains essential, but

equally important is making every pupil feel involved and engaged. Here, our use of mini-whiteboards (MWBs) has transformed learning. Gone are the days of passively copying notes or waiting for a few hands to go up. Now, every pupil can express their ideas, test their understanding and share answers simultaneously. This simple yet powerful tool gives teachers instant feedback, builds confidence and ensures that no one is left behind.

What makes the department truly special is the way pupils are encouraged to explore their subject with curiosity and enthusiasm. Whether through Olympiad challenges, classroom discussion or collaborative problem-solving, pupils are developing not only academic excellence but also resilience, creativity and a real love of learning.

We are immensely proud of what our pupils have achieved this year and excited for what lies ahead. Parents are warmly invited to visit lessons and see for themselves how our engaging, energetic approach is helping every pupil to shine.

Gary Shaw

Classics

It has been another vibrant and successful year for the Classics (Classical Civilisation and Latin) Department, with academic excellence, exciting trips and enriching cultural experiences.

A highlight of the year was our trip to Rome. Pupils of both Latin and Classical Civilisation were able to immerse themselves in the ancient world, exploring first-hand the sites and artefacts they have studied in class. From the Colosseum to the Forum, the Pantheon to the Vatican Museums, pupils engaged with history in the most immediate and inspiring way possible. The trip sparked enthusiastic discussion and brought the ancient world vividly to life.

Closer to home, our second visit to Fishbourne Roman Palace with the Shells was equally rewarding. The workshops provided an excellent hands-on experience, deepening pupils’ understanding of Roman domestic life and architecture. The

follow-up work and discussions back at school demonstrated just how much the pupils had taken away from the day.

We have also taken full advantage of virtual opportunities this year, streaming and sharing a range of live performances and panel discussions, particularly those hosted by the Classical Association. Pupils have enjoyed seeing ancient poetry brought to life, exploring new translations of Greek and Roman plays and hearing from leading academics in the field. These events have enriched classroom learning and encouraged wider intellectual curiosity.

The annual Classics Dinner continues to be a much anticipated event, bringing together our Sixth Form pupils and staff in celebration of all things Classical. It remains a joyful and spirited occasion, with recitations, quiz rounds and a great sense of camaraderie.

Academically, our pupils have achieved outstanding results. 100% of our Classical Civilisation A Level candidates achieved grade B or above, a testament to their hard work and dedication. In Latin, 36% of our GCSE pupils achieved the top grade 9, far exceeding the national average of 9% at comparable centres. We are proud of them all.

With the Athens and Delphi trip on the horizon in October half term and the next Shell trip in December in the final planning stages, we look forward to another year of discovery, debate and distinction in the Classical world.

Anna Berry

Computer Science

We are now firmly in the age of AI and a time of great flux and change throughout the world. In order to prepare Canfordians, we have added an AI section to our Shell curriculum. In this unit we discover what AI actually is: what it is good at; or not so good at; what this means for the world of work and society more widely. Also, what can we trust online and what are the signs of AI generation?

Look at the images below: which are real, which are fake?

The Upper Sixth were magnificent this year, gaining 5 A*s and an A. These include some inspiring projects too: ray-tracing from scratch in Python, with some truly beautiful code; encrypting data in images (steganography); a bridge physics simulator and construction game; an AI to play Tetris; a macro-economics game; and a fantastically mathematical procedural planet generator. Arjun Fan came in the top 100 pupils in the country, a fantastic effort, and we generally have someone attain this feat once every couple of years. Also, special mention to Theo H-T, who gained his A* one year early.

With the opening of the new Sixth Form building, it is a good chance to mention how relevant and important Computer Science (CS) is as an A Level. CS is not just coding, but the theory behind algorithms, and the ability to problem solve and to order and structure information. Because CS underlies nearly all activities – from science to commerce, from finance to warfare, from charity to ecology and more – its study has never been more pertinent.

(The answer to the question at the end of my first paragraph: the: first row is real, the bottom row synthetic.)

Simon Rood

Because CS underlies nearly all activities – from science to commerce, from finance to warfare, from charity to ecology and more – its study has never been more pertinent.

Some Design Technology projects from 2024/25

Design Technology

Good Design is Intelligence made visible – Le Corbusier

Understanding how materials behave is core knowledge for a designer, whether understanding the mechanical properties which affect how a prototype will perform or the aesthetic qualities of the finishes that can be achieved. Getting ‘hands on’ experience is vital and this is intrinsic in the subject and the projects we undertake through all year groups. In the Shells, it is achieved by controlled workshop tasks, projects like the concrete lamp: a mix of hardwoods and concrete to achieve an aesthetically pleasing desk lamp. At GCSE, pupils have diverse projects and each requires pupils to explore material options. At A Level we expect pupils to explore a wider range of materials, some of which they will not have handled before, and it is this exploration and experimentation that puts the theory of materials into practice.

A wide variety of projects were undertaken this year, from collapsible sandwich containers to hockey training aids to sculptural bins for cricket. It was great to see such a diverse range of projects, all led by pupils; it also keeps the staff on their toes! Some stand-out projects this year:

Chloe P: Food trolley for Montessori nursery school

Inspiration was gained from seeing how nursery school children are encouraged to be self-sufficient at mealtimes. This trolley is specifically designed for smaller children to use independently. Understanding how materials can be reformed was critical to the success of this project. There was good use of the simple line bender on acrylic to heat and reform the polymer sheet into a more structurally rigid shape for the trays.

Jarvis H: Wind tunnel (3D printing)

Excellent use of CAD skills to virtually design a wind tunnel to test the aerodynamics of model cars. This came out of thinking about how to demonstrate a way to show how air currents can affect objects. This is one of the most professionally finished prototypes we have seen in recent years, making good use of the department’s new generation of high-quality 3D printers.

Sam W: Working with his client at the Watersports Academy in Poole Harbour on a canoe storage system.

The thinking was excellent and the solution practical – often it’s the simple solutions that work the best. This moveable storage required Sam to master MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welding, first carrying out strength tests on joints to select the right power (depth of penetration of weld), as large forces were expected at these joints.

Unfortunately, we are unable to showcase the best project this year due to a pending patent application!

Jonathan Martin

Economics and Business

It has been another great year in the Economics and Business department. Teachers and pupils alike have worked tirelessly, but a special mention must be given to our Upper Sixth and Fifth Form, who worked incredibly hard and showed great determination ahead of their final examinations.

In September 2024, a dozen of our sixth-formers accepted the challenge of creating a new business that would equally consider profit and society. In the Christmas Term, these pupils formed a couple of teams and pitched their ideas. Both teams had compelling arguments and it was clear that they were driven to make a profit and to do all they could to support our nominated charity with a healthy donation. The first team, headed by Sam A and Lincoln J, pitched their idea of selling scarves: a super idea which led to them making over 200 sales and a profit of £1000. The second team,

led by Sam Askew, identified an appetite amongst the Canford community for Canford-branded pint glasses. The glasses proved to be very popular and the group ended the Easter Term with a £2000 profit. These driven teams of budding entrepreneurs were able to donate £3000 to the Children’s Garden Home, a school and orphanage in Kenya. The donation has been used to refurbish and equip their science laboratory.

In the Easter Term, we were fortunate to have our very own Mr Toy deliver a lecture on the life and work of Arthur Lewis, who was the first black economist to be granted a professorship at LSE and subsequently the first to receive the Royal Bank of Sweden Economics Prize in honour of Alfred Nobel. Canford’s lecture theatre was bursting with pupils, not only from our Business and Economics cohort but also interested parties from the History and Geography Departments.

The Upper Sixth business pupils also enjoyed our annual pilgrimage to the Mini factory in Cowley. A full tour of the car

builder’s factory allowed them to relate their classroom learning to real-life business operations.

In the Summer Term, we launched our own Economics Essay competition. It was fantastic to see every Lower Sixth economist enter an essay to the competition and demonstrate their real interest in the subject beyond the confines of the curriculum. Isaac F’s essay on the effectiveness of prisons in reducing the societal impacts of crime was awarded top prize.

We look forward to the coming year with the addition of Miss Alice Frost to the department’s teaching team. As we begin the 2025/26 academic year, we again enjoy increased numbers of Canfordians showing real enthusiasm and interest in the economy and business environment.

Steve Emery

English

The English Department has had another exciting, creative and successful year. In October, the spoken word poet and musician, Breis, visited the school and gave a lively and engaging performance to the Fourth Form, Fifth Form and A Level pupils, sharing his own work and encouraging pupils to join in and create their own lyrics. Writer Chris Bradford visited in March for World Book Day and recreated a kidnapping scene, including a security detail selected from the audience, to introduce the Shells and Fourth Form to

his latest novel series, Bodyguard. He also brought along a samurai sword from his best-selling Way of the Warrior books.

In January, Head of Department Jenny Plater went on maternity leave and shortly after produced our newest recruit, the gorgeous baby Rory.

In February, the Shells were invited to perform at the Music and Poetry evening, reciting published poems as well as performing their own creative work. Many parents were able to attend the lovely, inspirational evening, which was live-streamed to families unable to be there. Winning pupils went on to enter the national Poetry by Heart competition and received Highly Commended certificates.

During the year we took several groups of pupils to experience live theatre. The keenest pupils in the Shells, Fourth Form and Fifth Form were invited to watch adaptations of novels at Lighthouse in Poole. The whole of the A Level cohort had a wonderful trip to Stratford-upon-Avon to visit Shakespeare’s birthplace and to watch an excellent performance of Hamlet, set on the sinking Titanic, in March.

The A Level pupils are all members of LitSoc, which held several successful gatherings including film screenings of set texts, two visiting speakers (former HoD Caroline Barrett and Professor Juliette Atkinson from UCL) as well as a superb LitSoc dinner in March, involving dressing as characters from set texts and some enjoyable revision activities.

This year the successful House Poetry competition (won by Court) was joined by a new House Short Story competition

at the suggestion of A Level pupil Eva DN, with junior and senior winners across two categories.

All year, Yellow Hour, often held round a campfire in the woods, encouraged creative writing and in June, OC and published author Matt Knott took a group of Shells and fourth-formers to Lulworth Cove and led poetry workshops.

We ended the year with some outstanding results, with over 58% of our GCSE cohort achieving grade 8 or 9 in both IGCSE Language and IGCSE Literature, and 60% of our A Level pupils achieving grade A or A*. We are so proud of our exam year groups and are delighted that eight of our A Level pupils are now off to study English in some form at top universities including Durham, Warwick, Exeter and Cardiff.

Sam Crouch

Geography

The Geography Department has enjoyed a particularly vibrant and rewarding year, one that has combined academic success with innovation, creativity and a deepening engagement with the pressing issues facing our world.

We are delighted to celebrate another superb set of examination results. At A Level, an outstanding 72% of pupils achieved the top A* and A grades, testament to the hard work and dedication of both pupils and staff. At GCSE, results were equally impressive, with nearly a third of all pupils securing the coveted top grade of 9. These achievements reflect not only the intellectual rigour of the subject but also the department’s commitment to nurturing curiosity, independence and a love of learning.

Alongside the pursuit of academic excellence, the department has continued to innovate in teaching and learning. A particular focus this year has been the critical evaluation of artificial intelligence within geography: exploring its role in data analysis, mapping and resource management, while also questioning its limitations and ethical implications. This process of enquiry has challenged pupils to think carefully about the future of the discipline, equipping them with both practical skills and reflective insight. Above all, our goal remains to cultivate a lifelong passion for geography – a subject that offers a lens through which to understand and care for the world around us.

The Junior School Earthshot Competition was another highlight of the year, sparking wonderful levels of interest and creativity. Pupils produced an inspiring range of entries, demonstrating fresh ideas for environmental stewardship and global responsibility. Their enthusiasm was mirrored by internal entrants from our A Level classes, who engaged with current global issues in thoughtful and sophisticated ways. The strength of participation across year groups reveals the breadth of interest and commitment to the subject within the school community. It has also been a year of significant personal milestones within the department. We bid a fond farewell to Nick Hunter, whose inspirational teaching has left an indelible mark on countless pupils over the years. At the same time, we are delighted to celebrate the arrival of baby Percy, born to our colleague

Bryony Snooks, who is currently on maternity leave. Both will be greatly missed in the classroom, but warmly held in the thoughts of the department.

As we look ahead, there is much excitement for the year to come. With new initiatives on the horizon, fresh opportunities for pupils and the continued support of our dedicated teaching team, the Geography Department is well placed to build on its successes and inspire the next generation of geographers.

Alex Boulton

History

This year has been another exciting and successful one for the History Department, marked by academic excellence and rich, immersive experiences. A particular highlight was the annual battlefields trip in November, when 35 pupils travelled to France with the tour company Zeitgeist, whose motto is ‘We do things differently’. On arrival, pupils were met by three guides in full British World War 1 military dress, who led an atmospheric tour of the Somme, including Newfoundland Park and the moving Thiepval Memorial, where a bio-degradable wicker wreath was laid in remembrance.

The following day offered a fresh perspective as a German guide in full uniform joined the group at Fort de la Pompelle, providing insights into the German experience of the war. In the afternoon, pupils visited the rarely explored Butte de Vauquois, learning about underground warfare in a location no UK school had previously toured.

On the final day, the group had exclusive access to the Musée France 40 Véhicules, where pupils handled deactivated

As part of their battlefields tour, historians visited the Musée France 40 Véhicules

weapons, dressed in World War 1 uniforms, practised bayonet fencing and even fired a World War 1 tank gun. Some pupils were able to explore and ride in the tanks. The day included an authentic 1915-style meal cooked in a French field kitchen and ended with a visit to the La Caverne du Dragon, an underground network once occupied by both sides.

Pupil behaviour throughout was exemplary, with Zeitgeist writing to the Head: ‘It is truly wonderful to witness the level of engagement and interest displayed by each and every pupil on this tour... their thoughtful questions were truly remarkable.’

The department also hosted the annual Keith Hay Dinner, featuring a delicious meal and lively historical debate – an evening celebrating pupils’ passion for the subject.

Academically, the department enjoyed another outstanding year, with 54% of GCSE grades at grade 9 and 48% of A Level results at A-A*.

This has been a year of innovation, achievement and enthusiasm – a true reflection of the department’s ongoing commitment to bringing history to life.

Rachel Lines

Mathematics

Another busy and successful year in the Maths Department saw us say a sad farewell to Rob Hoey, who leaves after five years of dedicated teaching. We wish him and his family every happiness as they begin their new life in Milan.

Once again, our mathematicians achieved outstanding exam results. At A Level, nearly 27% of all grades were A*, with over 50% at A*/A, well above the national averages of 16% and 40% respectively. Further Maths proved equally impressive, with 50% of grades at A* and 90% at A*/A. Maths remains the most popular A Level choice, with 76 pupils in the Upper Sixth and 86 in the Lower Sixth. GCSE results continued to impress, with nearly 27%

of grades at Level 9 and 74% at Levels 9-7. Special congratulations to the twelve pupils who scored 190 marks or more out of 200.

Our pupils also excelled in national competitions. A total of 127 Shells, Fourth Form and Fifth Form pupils entered the Intermediate UKMT, with 23 achieving gold certificates and 97 securing gold, silver or bronze overall. Florence Z (Shells) was named Best in School. Fifteen pupils progressed to follow-on rounds, collectively earning another seven gold, silver or bronze awards. From the Sixth Form, 28 pupils entered the Senior UKMT, with 25 receiving gold, silver or bronze awards. Notably, Arjun Fan, Kunwho P and Johnny Gu qualified for the British Maths Olympiad, with Johnny achieving a Distinction and, in the second round, a Merit, placing him among the top 60 pupils in the UK. A super achievement!

Finally, we are proud of the many pupils leaving Canford to study STEM subjects at university. In particular, we congratulate those pursuing Mathematics: Jago Holden at Warwick and Archie Jones at Durham.

Stuart Gordon

Modern L anguages

French

The French Department has once again enjoyed a vibrant and exciting year, filled with opportunities for pupils to strengthen their language skills while gaining a deeper insight into French culture.

A highlight of the year was the language trip to Bordeaux for our Fourth Form pupils. This immersive experience enabled them to practise their French in authentic situations while discovering the rich culture and history of the region. Mornings were dedicated to language lessons, while afternoons were spent exploring Bordeaux and its surroundings. Among the memorable excursions were climbing the impressive Dune du Pyla, a visit to the picturesque town of Saint-Émilion and an extraordinary immersive art experience inside a former submarine base.

An al fresco Mathematics lesson about measurement, using the sport of ‘throw the trainer’

Another popular event was our French film evening, organised for the Sixth Form. Watching French films outside the classroom offered a relaxed but effective way to improve listening skills and broaden cultural understanding, as well as giving pupils the chance to enjoy French cinema together in a social setting.

Throughout the year, a dedicated group of pupils continued our outreach programme with Heathlands Primary School. By teaching younger pupils simple French words and phrases, they not only consolidated their own learning but also helped to spark an early enthusiasm for languages among the children. The project proved both enjoyable and inspiring for everyone involved.

Altogether, this has been a successful and enriching year for the French Department. We are proud of our pupils’ enthusiasm and achievements, and we look forward to organising more activities that celebrate both the French language and culture in the year to come.

Esther Saurel

German

Examination results in German were excellent once again this year with 91% of pupils obtaining grades 9-7 at IGCSE and 100% achieving A*/A grades at A Level. Ethan G produced a very special performance at IGCSE, with an outstanding score of 154/160. Jasper T and Fred L also did extremely well, taking the exam one and two years early and preparing in their own time; both obtained a clear grade 9. In the A Level course, Julie ArthurKrebs and Anton Cox’s IRPs for the Speaking exam on ‘The impact of Germany’s renewable energy policy on its economy’ and ‘The critical situation of the German car industry’ showed an outstanding level of research, independent work, thematic analysis, insight and linguistic quality. In Paper 2 (translation and two literature essays), Julie’s superlative score of 119/120 was the best I have ever seen from anyone in an A Level language.

Richard Wilson

Spanish

This year has been an exciting and enriching one for the Spanish Department at Canford, marked by cultural celebrations, academic success, talks and unforgettable experiences beyond the classroom. As the academic year started, we felt privileged to see the largest ever number of hispanists at Canford, with a true interest in discovering the linguistic dimension of the subject and the cultural vastness with which it is intrinsically linked.

October was particularly memorable for the twenty Lower School Canfordians travelling to Granada for the annual school trip. Staying with host families, the trip offered a true cultural immersion, as it included language lessons in the mornings and cultural exploration in the afternoons. As ever, the guided visit to the stunning Alhambra Palace was the highlight of the week. As in previous occasions, Juan, the by now legendary tour guide, was as inspirational as it gets and delivered his tour fully in Spanish. An unforgettable experience for all involved.

On 12 October, we celebrated Hispanity Day, to commemorate the arrival of Cristóbal Colón to the Americas and raise awareness of the richness of the Hispanic culture worldwide. All year groups participated in activities in the classroom that highlighted the global influence of Spanish language and traditions.

We kicked off the Christmas celebrations with a sweet Spanish tradition as our Shells gathered in the Great Hall to savour chocolate con churros – crispy, golden pastries dipped in rich, velvety chocolate, wonderfully cooked by our catering department. The aroma and warmth of this treat brought a taste of Spain to Canford, creating a moment of shared enjoyment and cultural discovery.

In November, Clorrie Yeomans, Corporate Affairs Manager at Canning House, delivered a captivating fireside talk to our Fifth and Sixth Form hispanists. Her exploration of Spanish as a global language – its influence across trade, finance and international relations – was both intellectually stimulating and profoundly

thought-provoking, offering students a fresh perspective on the far-reaching impact of linguistic and cultural connectivity.

The Easter Term brought another intellectual highlight: Professor Stephen M Hart from UCL, a leading scholar in Spanish and Latin American Studies, led a seminar on García Márquez’s Chronicle of a Death Foretold. His analysis revealed the deeper subtext of the novella, placing it within the social and cultural context of 1950s rural Colombia – a fascinating perspective for our pupils.

From cultural celebrations to academic enrichment and international experiences, the Spanish Department had the privilege to offer Canfordians opportunities to broaden their horizons and deepen their understanding of the Hispanic world.

Francisco Compan

Other Languages

Edgar A achieved an A* in A Level Russian a year early in the Lower Sixth, producing a highly complex IRP with superb detail, research and evaluation. In GCSE Chinese, all three pupils (none of them native speakers) achieved a grade 9 a year early, preparing for the exam in their own time. Tilda M got a grade 7 in GCSE Portuguese a year early, having only learnt the language for two years.

For the final time, I would like to thank the wonderful team of native speaker teachers: Tzu-Ling Shao in Chinese, Cereangel Urbaneja in Portuguese and Rita Schweers in Russian this year, as well as all the other teachers I have had the pleasure of working with over the last seventeen years. Their work and continuous support has been superb and has enabled many pupils to connect with their various cultures through language, greatly enhanced their GCSE and A Level profiles and also helped them to access various courses at top UK universities. I have always had profound respect for the pupils taking these exams – their talent, independence and discipline in preparing for these exams outside their main timetables serve as an inspiration to others.

Richard Wilson

The annual formal dinner for sixth-formers studying Philosophy and Theology was held in John o’ Gaunt’s in the Easter Term

Philosophy and Theology

The past academic year has been one of exceptional achievement and intellectual vibrancy within the Philosophy and Theology Department. Our pupils have continued to demonstrate both academic excellence and an enthusiasm for rigorous thought and discussion. The most recent public examination results once again highlight this strength. At A Level, 81% of our pupils were awarded A* to A grades in the summer of 2025, an outstanding achievement that reflects the dedication of our pupils and staff. At GCSE, results were equally impressive, with 41.6% of all grades awarded at level 9 and 88% between levels 7 and 9. These figures place the department firmly among the most successful nationally and are a testimony to the commitment and intellectual curiosity of our pupils.

In January, the department held its annual Sixth Form formal event in partnership with the Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics. The debate featured Joe Folley, creator of Unsolicited Advice, and Glen Scrivener of Speak Life UK, both of whom are widely followed on social media. They addressed the question, ‘Can we be good without God?’, with our pupils contributing thoughtful and challenging questions. The evening was lively and rigorous, serving as an excellent showcase for serious philosophical engagement.

At the beginning of the Easter Term, our Shell pupils took part in the annual Philosophy and Theology essay competition. The standard of entries was extremely high, with essays that were consistently well-argued, creative and carefully researched. Particular congratulations go to our winners: Florence Z, who secured first place with her essay, ‘It is never justified to break the law’, Olivia S in second place, and Amelia M in third.

The Philippa Foot Society has once again been central to the life of the department. This year it has hosted a vibrant programme of lectures and discussions with leading thinkers, including Dr Mike Licona, Professor Bart Ehrman, Dr Stephen Law and Dr William Lane Craig. These events have given our pupils the chance to engage directly with distinguished scholars. The society continues to provide an intellectual community where pupils test ideas, learn to argue persuasively and deepen their understanding of philosophical and theological traditions.

Alongside these discussions, our pupils have benefited from valuable trips that broaden their horizons and reinforce classroom learning. GCSE pupils enjoyed an insightful educational visit to London, where they explored the Central Mosque and Westminster Abbey, deepening their understanding of inter-faith dialogue and the role of religion in public life.

Sam Leiper

Physical Education

The 2024/25 academic year brought another excellent set of results for the PE Department, particularly at A Level. An impressive 46% of A Level grades were awarded at A* or A, with no pupil scoring below a C. At GCSE, 83% of grades were between 9 and 6, with over a third at the very highest levels (9 or 8). During moderation, both GCSE and A Level cohorts were highly commended by the exam board for the quality of their work, underlining the strength of teaching and learning within the department. Equally encouraging is the value added demonstrated through MidYIS (Middle Years Information System) and ALIS (A Level Information System) baseline testing. Results showed progress, a testament not only to the expertise and commitment of the teaching team, but also to the positive, proactive and ambitious approach of our pupils.

The popularity of PE continues to grow. Last year, we taught two sets in both the Upper and Lower Sixth, and looking ahead to 2025/26, we are delighted to have three sets in both the Fourth and the Fifth Forms for the first time. In total, 125 pupils across the school are now studying PE at GCSE or A Level.

Advances in video technology and performance analysis have played a significant role in enhancing learning. The integration of platforms such as VEO and FrogBox has become a regular and invaluable tool, equipping our pupils with deeper technical and tactical understanding to complement their practical performance and theoretical study.

This year has also been a personal milestone, as I have had the privilege of stepping into the role of Head of Department following the remarkable 27-year tenure of my predecessor, Nick Baugniet. His legacy of excellence, collaboration and high standards remains firmly embedded in our work. The department is united in its commitment to building on this foundation, and we will continue to inspire Canfordians to channel their passion for sport into academic success.

Matt Collison

Physics

The Physics Department has had another action-packed year, full of discovery, creativity and achievement. Our pupils continue to show that Physics is more than equations on a page – it is about curiosity, problem-solving and exploring how the world really works.

One of the highlights of the year has been the outstanding examination results. At A Level, an incredible 92% of pupils achieved grades A*-B, while at GCSE, 60% secured the top 9/8 grades. These results are a testament to the determination, talent and enthusiasm of our pupils. A huge congratulations goes to them all for their hard work and commitment – it has truly paid off.

But Physics at our school doesn’t stop at the classroom door. The Formula 24 team has been busy building and refining their own electric racing car. This year, they completed the development of the chassis and began working on the electronic steering systems. The long-term vision is to create a rolling chassis that can be continually improved by future teams. Each group will receive a budget to upgrade and innovate – perhaps one year it is a sleek aerodynamic shell, another year it is a cutting-edge motor or an upgraded steering system. With every team leaving their mark, the car will evolve into a faster, smarter and more sophisticated machine year by year.

Our Physics Book Club has also been thriving, offering pupils the chance to tackle some of the biggest ideas in science. This year’s reads were Quantum by Professor Jim Al-Khalili and Seven Brief Lessons on Physics by Carlo Rovelli. Discussions were anything but ordinary, as pupils debated everything from quantum mysteries to the unfinished puzzles that continue to challenge scientists today. To add even more excitement, pupils prepared and presented research talks on topics of their choice. The creativity and insight on display were inspiring and the competition was tough. In the end, the top presentations went to Tom Camilleri, who impressed for the second year running, and Ijoba O, whose talk was equally outstanding.

Looking back, it is clear that this has been a year defined not just by results but by imagination, exploration and teamwork. From racing cars to research debates, our pupils have shown what makes Physics so exciting: the thrill of asking questions and the joy of building answers. We can’t wait to see where their curiosity takes them next year.

John Allison

Politics

The last school year was a busy one for Politics at Canford, and the pupils threw themselves into the wider political world with enthusiasm and skill. Several pupils entered the Baynham essay competition, using their knowledge of politics to investigate topics such as the legalisation of drugs and its impact on society, while one entered the prestigious ‘Minds Underground’ competition, looking at the impact of social media on political outcomes. These entries illustrated the excellent work that many pupils put into making sure that their political understanding was not just limited to that contained within the bounds of textbooks and exam technique.

In November, the department held an early morning watch party for the US election, and whilst the election of President Trump was of great interest to the gathered pupils (as he would no doubt give them a huge number of examples to use in their essays), they also keenly observed the large number of Congressional races, studying the success and failure of several influential candidates in both the House and the Senate.

Easter Term brought the beginning of the run into the summer exam period and the Upper Sixth felt the pressure as they realised there was not long to go, but the barrage of executive orders put out by Donald Trump was a great help to their essays on US presidential power and its limitations.

By the time that Summer Term arrived, the pupils were in full exam mode, but their involvement and love of politics was fostered by the run-up to the July election in the UK. The first-year pupils set themselves to investigate the parties’ manifestos, to discover just what faction was in charge in Labour, Conservative and Liberal Democrat HQs, in preparation for that perennial exam questions: ‘How socialist are the Labour party?’ and ‘How conservative are the Conservative party?’.

Finally, in the denouement of the year, the hard work and dedication of the class of ’25 paid off and they received some excellent exam results, with the 14 candidates achieving 5A*s, 4 As, 4Bs and a C between them, a fitting reward for such an enthusiastic and entertaining year group.

Ross Maggs

S upport for Learning

It has, as expected, been a busy year for the Support for Learning and Special Educational Needs Department. The number of pupils with a neuro-diverse presentation (ADHD and autism) has continued to grow, and Canford has developed a close working relationship with Haven Medical in Canford Cliffs to improve our support and provision for pupils with complex needs.

The start of 2025 was marked with its first Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Learning Conference. Local schools, feeder schools and institutions from across the South of England were invited to attend to share learning and good practice to help improve support for high-ability pupils.

Teachers, support staff, SENDCOs and senior leaders came together to focus on topics including approaches to mindfulness, pupil voice and neurodiversity, wellbeing and spelling, with specific attention paid to strategies and approaches to effectively support pupils in mainstream schools with Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC).

Our focus for the conference was very much to explore practical ways to provide both ‘challenging’ and ‘accessible’ learning opportunities for all pupils and especially those identified with SEND that have high academic potential. Providing excellent opportunities for networking, the day was a mix of presentations and smaller interactive workshops to encourage engagement and open, honest discussion. Delegates also enjoyed lunch in the Great Hall followed by a leisurely walk through the school’s historic and modern buildings and beautiful grounds.

Comments after the event included ‘We were made to feel very welcome, not just by the Learning Support team, but by all the Canford staff’ and ‘Would highly recommend – warm welcome and friendly team throughout, beautiful grounds and excellent speakers.’

The focus of the Canford SEND Conference January 2026 will be strategies and approaches to effective support for pupils with Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

Our focus this coming year will be to develop further the support that we offer in the exciting new Sixth Form Hub and to continue to work closely with all staff to promote quality-first teaching and pastoral interactions across the site.

Please do feel free to email me at axf@canford.com if you have any SEN questions.

ENRICHMENT

Enrichment sits at the heart of Canford’s academic life, shaping the ambitious and inquisitive culture we value so highly. Our programme is designed to spark curiosity, broaden horizons and encourage pupils to think beyond their examined curriculum. With an extensive range of supra-curricular opportunities available, we are proud not only of the diversity and calibre of what is on offer, but also of the enthusiasm and commitment with which our pupils embrace it.

In October, we welcomed back our flagship event, the Festival of Ideas. Over the course of the festival, fifteen speakers visited Canford, each year group enjoying a tailored programme of lectures and workshops. This year’s theme,

Upper Sixth pupil Grace Cecil-Wright speaks at the Festival of Ideas on ‘What we can learn from John Rawls’

Global best-selling author Damien Lewis

‘Stability & Instability’, reflected the turbulent times we are living through and provided a stimulating framework for discussion. Highlights included an inspiring talk by Victoria Humphries, polar adventurer, mountain climber and Guinness World Record holder, who encouraged pupils to take risks and ‘give it a go’. Equally memorable was Dr Mark Lewney’s electrifying exploration of the relationship between music and physics, accompanied by his trademark guitar demonstrations.

A particularly rewarding element of the festival was the inclusion of talks from Upper Sixth scholars. Traditionally, senior scholars deliver lectures to junior scholars as part of our internal programme, but last year we introduced a new

custom of showcasing some of these talks to the wider school. This year, three of the finest were selected for the Festival of Ideas, covering ‘The search for alien life’, ‘What we can learn from John Rawls’, and ‘What happens when we sleep’. The quality of thought, delivery and insight demonstrated by the pupils was outstanding.

October also saw the annual Baynham Essay Competition, which challenges every member of the Lower Sixth to produce a short essay on a subject of their own choosing. The breadth of topics and the depth of research never fail to impress, revealing the wide-ranging intellectual interests of our pupils. This year’s winning entries were Isaac F’s essay, ‘The French legal system: economic implications of codified law, and the overall benefit of France’s legal framework on its economic performance’, and Theo HT’s exploration of ‘The feasibility of time travel’.

At the end of the year, once GCSE examinations had concluded, the Fifth Form returned for our Inspire Day, designed to expose pupils to unconventional pathways and spark ideas for

Miff Martinek speaking on the subject of ‘Personal Identity’

life beyond Canford. They heard from three diverse and engaging speakers: Kathryn Burn, entrepreneur and former Apprentice finalist, who shared her experiences of building businesses from scratch; acclaimed war photographer Rick Findler, who gave a sobering yet fascinating account of his career in conflict zones including Ukraine; and adventurer and Old Canfordian Alex Hibbert, who inspired pupils to consider their own future challenges and explorations.

Our ongoing enrichment programme for Fifth and Sixth Forms also continued to flourish. Pupils rotated through their five chosen subjects, spending two weeks in each, and delved into aspects of the discipline that lie beyond the exam specification. This structure allows for intellectual exploration in new directions, shaped by the expertise and passions of our teaching staff, and continues to be a central strand in encouraging independent, curious and ambitious learners.

Beyond the curriculum

As well as the academic, sporting, artistic and other activities described elsewhere in the magazine, the co-curricular interests listed below gave pupils the chance to learn new skills and ignite new enthusiasms during the year. These activities also tested their abilities and developed teamwork, confidence and leadership. They took place through the year within the overall timetable. Different options were offered to different year groups; the aim is to allow pupils to choose a variety during their time at the school.

Canoeing

Clay pigeon shooting

Climbing

Cookery

Creative writing

Crochet

Debating skills

DJ skills

Etiquette

Expedition skills

First aid

Fishing

Kayaking

Mindfulness

Mountain biking

Movement and core activity

News café PADI diving

Photography Shooting

Slot car

Songwriting

Student finance

Survival

Theatre tech

Touch rugby

Touch typing

Ultimate frisbee

Watersports

Yoga

Shell Carousel

The newly arrived Shells may be surprised to find something called the ‘Carousel’ on their timetables for an hour every Tuesday afternoon.

The Carousel is our attempt to open the Shells’ eyes to some of the opportunities Canford has to offer and is a programme that changes from year to year but is always very varied. This year it includes activities that relate to sport (shooting, archery and rowing) along with sessions designed to help them look after themselves through their sporting activities: athletic development and nutrition. These are mixed in with more creative activities (advertising, DJing and music technology, art and cookery) and some academic or skill-based sessions (dissection, MUN, making an impression, presentation skills, library introduction and psychology).

We hope it allows the Shells a chance to try out in an open-minded way things that they may take further in years to come, perhaps even discovering their true passion. It also helps them to make new friends and to explore early on and more fully

the site that will play such a formative role in their lives. It also means that over the last few years, no Canfordian should leave without having tried the things that are special about Canford, such as having rowed on the beautiful Stour.

Russ Booker

The College

The 2024/25 academic year was one full of exciting advances in the development of the College. Renovations of the former Wimborne and Monteacute houses were completed in February and at the beginning of March, pupils from across the Sixth Form began making use of the College Hub – now officially named the Ben Vessey Building. Construction of the College residences continues apace and there is a clear sense of how the College will fit within the broader school model.

Located at the hear t of Canford, the Hub’s central location affords convenient access to key facilities for academic and co-curricular activities and provides a focus for life at school. However, perhaps the most important role of the space is the way it will serve to enhance the Sixth Form community as part of the broader College model. This shared space for Lower and Upper Sixth boys and girls, day pupils and boarders from all houses, allows pupils to foster connections both within their year groups and across the whole Sixth Form.

Designed to function much like a university Students’ Union, the building houses a range of services for pupils to access through either drop-in provision or pre-booked appointments, as required. Key members of staff for the recently expanded Future Pathways department, Wellbeing, Support for Learning and Academic Enrichment are all close at hand and pupils are encouraged to be proactive in seeking the guidance and advice they need. The Hub also plays host to Saturday evening socials and a variety of community, cocurricular and enrichment events. The teaching kitchen has now been baptised and we are exploring opportunities for pupils to develop their cooking skills, creating meals on a budget that they will be able to replicate when living independently.

This similarity to a university structure is not accidental; the overarching aim of the College setup is to support the transition to life beyond school and to empower pupils to make appropriate decisions about their own futures. At the same time, we are keen that pupils make the most of their Sixth Form experience; they are encouraged to engage purposefully with all aspects of school life, act as leaders and role models for younger pupils, and prepare for their final exams with dedication.

Although our Sixth Form have been using the Ben Vessey Building as a shared space since March, the first major shift in operations did not take place until this September, when Upper Sixth day pupils relocated from their houses to the Hub. Lancaster, Salisbury and Wimborne pupils now each have a personal workspace in one of the ten study suites, as well as access to additional kitchens and common rooms. Whilst these Upper Sixth pupils now predominantly base themselves in the

College under the care of the dedicated pastoral lead for the Upper Sixth, Mrs Melissa Clinton, they are still very much a part of their houses, retaining close links with staff and peers and continuing to benefit from the support of those who know them well. The house structure at Canford is very important, so this sense of belonging and community is something we will work hard to retain – from planned catch-ups with housemasters or housemistresses and matrons, to house social activities and events, the Upper Sixth remain valued members of their houses, even while they ‘live out’ at the College in their final year of Sixth Form.

House competitions are seeing enthusiastic participation from the Upper Sixth and the same house spirit that we would always expect, and the feedback we have had from this trailblazing group of young people has been overwhelmingly positive. They have particularly enjoyed getting to know peers

from other houses a little bit better, the more adult atmosphere that the space affords and the opportunity to build the College culture with us. We are so grateful for their engagement in this process, their patience as we work through minor hiccups and the thoughtful contributions they continue to make as we explore ways to make the most of all the opportunities this new structure will afford us. Pupil voice is absolutely key in determining the ‘cultural architecture’ of the College and its links to house belonging and identity.

One of the most frequently asked questions about the new system is the impact that it will have on house leadership. A lot of time and thought has gone into an enhanced (rather than reinvented) structure that allows Upper Sixth house leaders to work in close partnership with a newly established Lower Sixth house leadership team. In practice, as the year progresses, Upper Sixth leaders take on an increasingly strategic role – sitting on the pupil forum, representing pupil voice from their respective houses, championing school-wide initiatives – while the Lower Sixth team play a more operational role in house. So far, this structure is working well and we are particularly pleased that a broader range of pupils can demonstrate and develop their leadership skills before formal selections for the house leader role take place in the Easter Term of their Lower Sixth year.

An impression of the spacious lobby area of one of the residences

At the time of writing, the roofs of the two residential buildings are being fixed, and we are very close to being watertight. Once over this important threshold, work on the interiors can begin in earnest. We are still on track for Upper Sixth boarders from all seven houses to move into the College in September 2026 and we are so looking forward to seeing how they enjoy the space.

As with the Hub, the residences have been designed as a stepping stone towards living independently. Like many university halls, the bedrooms (all single and en-suite and across four floors) are clustered around a shared kitchenette space, with comfy seating and a sociable atmosphere. The space will also house washing machines and dryers so pupils can develop those essential life skills and avoid a laundry disaster during the first week of university! The bedrooms and social spaces will be homely and comfortable, with views over the College courtyard and garden as well as the re-established Beaufort lawn.

In total, there are 119 bedrooms across the two residences, with accommodation for two members of staff (and their families) in each wing. The remit of this Residential Life team will be much like that of the ResLife departments commonly found in higher education; they will support welfare and wellbeing, ensure that pupils develop skills for independent living and devise an inclusive range of community and social events that can be accessed by the whole Sixth Form.

How a typical room in the boarding accommodation will look

As we come ever closer to the completion of the College construction phase, it might seem counter-intuitive that the buildings are becoming less of a focus, but our experience so far has shown us that culture is key. Over the coming months, we will continue to listen to pupil voice, work closely with houses and other key stakeholders, and dedicate our energy towards creating an environment that not only serves the needs of Canfordians while they are at school, but sets them up for a happy and successful future, whatever pathway they choose.

A Global Outlook Global Connections

‘The world is before you, and you need not take it or leave it as it was when you came in.’ James Baldwin

It has been an exciting year for Global Connections at Canford, with increased pupil engagement and a strong focus on global awareness, citizenship and debate.

The GC360 Instagram page has flourished, thanks to our pupil leader’s regular updates, promoting Canford’s involvement in Model United Nations (MUN) and global events. MUN itself has gone from strength to strength. Highlights included a mini-MUN event with the Bourne Academy and Castle Court, with Canford sixth-formers leading every stage from drafting resolutions on the UNHCR refugee crisis to chairing the General Assembly. Canford was also represented at the Reigate, Marlborough and Oxford conferences.

New opportunities this year included the inaugural House MUN in December. A new MUN guidance booklet and increased after-school meetings, now

chaired by the Global Connections pupil leader, have also boosted involvement, with pupils taking the lead in writing and debating resolutions.

Our Global Connections curriculum continues to evolve across the school. This year saw a variety of enriching talks, from South African culture and Norwegian politics to migration, gender equality and Australian wildlife. Highlights included a compelling session with Dr Yasser Essam Mohammed on his journey from Egypt to NHS partnership, and a Google Meet with OC Mia Ashby-Rudd, discussing university life in the US post-Trump. A highlight of the programme was the inspirational talk from OC David Hughes and his wife, Elizabeth Dearborn Hughes, reflecting on their experiences of co-founding the Akilah Institute in Kigali, with the mission of providing higher education opportunities for women in a country rebuilding from the devastation of the 1994 genocide. Dave also shared his

experiences of playing for the Rwanda national rugby team, sport being a powerful tool for helping genocide survivors and a post-conflict community. Cross-curricular events featured prominently, with activities marking International Women’s Day, the Gender Pay Gap and World TB Day. A poignant collaboration with the History Department saw pupils contribute to the whole school Holocaust Memorial Day service: a reflective and sober occasion which was appreciated by all.

As the world continues to grow more interconnected, Canfordians are embracing the responsibility and opportunity to understand it more deeply. Through debate, dialogue and action, Global Connections ensures that pupils leave not only informed, but inspired to lead with empathy, insight and impact.

Lenka Collison

Saint Nicholas Day

The International Society

The International Society put on some very entertaining and enriching cultural events this year. We started in style with the International Induction Day at the beginning of the year, where we welcomed a total of 52 guests (new pupils and their families) and they enjoyed highly informative welcome talks and tours of the school to help with their initial integration into Canford.

Julie Arthur-Krebs and the team of international house reps were a great help in promoting and helping with

our cultural events programme during the year to celebrate our international diversity across the school. This included the Chinese Moon Festival, World Flag Day, Saint Nicholas Day and Chinese New Year, with pupils themselves getting involved and contributing with traditional clothes, games and music. In support of these events, our catering department also did a marvellous job at lunchtimes in decorating the serveries and putting on such delicious and authentic international menus inspired by cuisines from all over

the world (including the amazing ‘sevencontinents’ menu). Special thanks also go to Ms Shao for running the Chinese events so superbly and for her amazing Chinese tea service.

The attendance at events from pupils and staff across the school was very high and there was a wonderful atmosphere, with everyone enjoying themselves and learning new things.

Richard Wilson

Some of the international visits undertaken by Canfordians during the year

Cross-country ski-ing in Norway is a highlight of the CCF’s year

Those taking part in the trip to Granada stayed with Spanish families but joined up for social and cultural activities

The Canford boat club enjoyed pre-season training on the calm waters of Lago d’Orta, Italy

The

not only

The Spanish Department’s trip to

included guided visits to significant local sites

ARGENTINA C

anford’s 21-year partnership with Hogar El Alba remains as heartfelt and impactful as ever. This year, fourteen Canfordians had the honour of meeting Karina, Sacqui, Yoselin and Mili –four extraordinary people who dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to creating a safe and loving home for children from the barrio.

As always, emotions ran high as we listened to powerful testimonies and witnessed at first hand the profound effect our presence has on children who face unimaginable hardship and have little to look forward to in their daily lives. Emiliano’s reflections offered deep insight and helped us to gain perspective on the realities these children endure.

The team rolled up their sleeves for days of sanding, cleaning and painting – physically demanding and repetitive tasks, yet deeply rewarding in their purpose: to improve the living conditions of the children. Every brushstroke was a step toward dignity and comfort.

The Mega Festival was a resounding success, made possible by the generous fundraising efforts of our pupils. It brought joy, laughter and a sense of celebration to a community that rarely gets to experience such moments.

This was more than just a trip – it was a journey of mutual growth and understanding, a two-way exchange that leaves a lasting imprint on the heart and shapes who we become. It has a phenomenal impact on our pupils, as this selection of their comments make clear:

‘This trip is the best thing I have ever been on; it exceeded my expectations. I never could have guessed how much of an impact we would have on the children from the Hogar. They teach us so many lessons, they build our confidence and open our eyes to the world beyond Canford.’ (Anna L)

‘It was 1000 times better than I expected. I learned that I can be welcome and loved for simply being there.’ (Henry A)

‘I have learnt how incredibly grateful I should be about my life, how I have parents who love me so much, and how small challenges and problems I’ve had so far are insignificant in the grand scheme of things.’ (Izzy K)

‘I learnt that there are friendships to be made with those who I did not interact much with before. The highlight was seeing how friendly the children and the people we met were, and how quickly we could interact compared with the UK.’ (Alexander B)

‘My most memorable moment: meeting Emiliano, who showed me what real perseverance is, both physically and emotionally, and how people find joy in non-materialistic things such as love, a smile and kindness.’ (Libby CW)

‘I have learnt so many things about myself, for example that I need to be less scared of stepping out of my comfort zone, worry less about little things and instead look at the bigger picture.’ (Rose S)

‘It gives a sense of perspective. I have noticed that I am more willing to work and get along with those I have not met before.’ (William B)

Marianne Marns

It was a journey filled with joy, challenge, laughter and reflection. Truly, an experience we will never forget.

GHANA

It was one of those trips that flew by in a flash, yet somehow felt like we had been there for ever.

Across eighteen incredible nights in Ghana, we packed in an extraordinary variety of experiences –visiting local primary schools, Ghana Makes a Difference (an orphanage), a mushroom farm, drumming workshops, a Twi language lesson, vibrant acrobatic performances and a weekend in busy Accra, to name just a few.

Our introduction to ‘Ghanaian time’ came on the very first morning. Having been told breakfast would be at 8 am, we had a surprise wake-up call at 6 am.

Throughout the trip, we soon learnt to relax when it came to timings – if our minibus driver was two hours late, that was simply part of the adventure! A highlight of that first day was visiting Ghana Makes a Difference, where we played with some truly inspiring children, many of whom had experienced deeply difficult circumstances before arriving at the orphanage. The following day provided quite a contrast: a chance to unwind at a beach club in Kokrobite before our busy two weeks at school began.

At Awutu Winton, Canfordians were paired with pupils studying similar subjects, giving us the chance to experience lessons side by side. The teaching style was strikingly different from what we are used to in the UK.

Teachers often read directly from textbooks, while pupils were discouraged from asking questions, as it could be seen as disrespectful. Yet what stood out most was how engaged and motivated the pupils were, even without the technology we take for granted, such as smartboards and laptops.

Every afternoon, the sports field became a hive of activity: football, cricket, rugby, volleyball, gymnastics, even CCF. Our pupils threw themselves into the action, with our girls especially enjoying sharing netball drills and our boys joining in with the Awutu Winton football team. Local children also gathered each day, playing until nightfall.

Visiting the hostels was another highlight. At the boys’ hostel, football was the main focus, while the atmosphere at the girls’ hostel was electric. After a quick tour, the girls had us singing, dancing and joining their favourite circle game. This involved stepping into the middle to dance proudly when your Ghanaian name was called, names given according to which day of the week you were born.

Food was also an adventure. We sampled a wide range of Ghanaian dishes, with one of the most memorable experiences being the chance to cook alongside the Home Economics pupils. Making fufu was no small task: pounding boiled plantain until it became a sticky dough required real teamwork! A visit to a local vocational college also treated us to a delicious serving of red red.

Of course, no trip is without its challenges. A planned weekend away

in Cape Coast took an unexpected turn when illness struck. Thirteen of the fifteen of us were laid low by a nasty stomach bug. What could have been a disaster instead became a testament to Canfordian resilience. With hospital trips needed for some and the rest grateful for flushing toilets at the hostel, we pulled together and supported one another despite the circumstances. By the end of

the ordeal, the group had come through stronger and more bonded than ever.

Looking back on Ghana 2025, it is impossible not to feel grateful for the warmth of the welcome we received, for the friendships we formed and for the lessons we learnt, both inside and outside the classroom. It was a journey filled with joy, challenge, laughter and reflection. Truly, an experience we will never forget.

Rachael Daniel

Chaplaincy PASTORAL

Have you ever wondered …?

This was the question that we began with in our Sunday chapels as the new academic year began. It was borrowed from the title of a book written/edited by Dr Andy Bannister, who went on to be our guest for the Lent Addresses in the Easter Term. Before then we tackled questions including why we love happy endings, why we preserve the past and why we long for justice, expertly helped by a variety of pupil guests and outside guests from the world of law, education, PR, medicine, AI technology and much more. In our midweek chapels we considered stories that changed the world (parables from the teaching of Jesus), as well as highlights from Paul’s letter to the Colossians and the life of Joseph.

In the Easter Term, the Lent Addresses were well attended, with the biggest crowd (around 90 boarders) turning out for ‘Have you ever wondered if God could forgive Hitler?’ There was also a good group of pupils attending weekly confirmation classes, and at the beginning of the Summer Term, on a beautiful day, Bishop Robert Atwell confirmed twelve pupils: Olivia B, Casper C, Poppy M, Sophie

Amelie M, Ollie P, Molly R, Fergus S, George S, Will V, Hector W and Verity W.

Many thanks to Mr Ings and the Music Department for bringing so much wonderful music to our midweek chapel services and also to the major services, including Remembrance Sunday, the carol service in Wimborne Minster and our leavers’ service. Finally, a huge thank you and goodbye to Mr Shannon for a stellar three years of service as our ‘gaplain’, bringing so much joy, energy and wisdom to the chaplaincy team. He will be missed.

Rev. Philip Jack

Newly confirmed Canfordians with Robert Atwell, former Bishop of Exeter

Wellbeing

This year has been an inspiring period of growth and development in the area of whole-school wellbeing. Our wellbeing concert, Wellbeing Fest, once again proved to be a highlight of the year, celebrating the power of music, creativity and community in promoting positive wellbeing. Its continued success reflects the commitment of pupils and staff alike, with more volunteers from the pupil body speaking openly about managing mental health, a sold-out audience and larger number of acts across all year groups.

This year has seen us engage in the pelvic floor health education day again, delivering valuable physical wellbeing education to both sexes. The boys were also given education on pelvic floor, urinary and bowel health, ensuring pupils develop lifelong awareness of body care, injury prevention and the importance of safe participation in physical activity. We also welcomed Team PEBE to give our female pupils education on the importance of wearing a sports bra to support their physical health, self-confidence and performance. One of the big aims with this value work is to help keep females participating in sport.

Our pupil-led men’s mental health forum achieved outstanding attendance from all year groups, while the peer mentor programme continues to be a great avenue of support to our pupils. The strong engagement in these highlights the importance of peer-led initiatives in breaking down stigma and encouraging help-seeking.

The incredible mental health platform, JAAQ, which stands for Just Ask A Question, are building a new platform called JAAQ Junior aimed at young people age 8+, where they can find valid information in video footage on how to help manage worry and fear. Canford were delighted to secure a place as one of only ten schools across the UK to take part in filming for this. The Shells and fifth-formers made us incredibly proud, sharing mature and insightful thoughts on a fun filming day. Their keenness to be part of something to help others reflects the integrity and value for wellbeing promoted amongst our community.

Melissa Clinton

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

In October, during Black History Month, we considered the theme, ‘Reclaiming Narratives’.

One story that stood out amongst a range of inspiring stories we heard was from speaker Darren Harris. Darren is the founder of ‘Unblind Your Mind’. He is also England’s most capped blind footballer and has no fewer than ten world and European medals to his name. He spoke about how to transform your life and overcome any adversity through a positive mindset. Beyond speakers and lots of discussion, pupils enjoyed a themed lunch. The menu was planned by our African, Caribbean and Mixed Community group (ACMC) and reflected traditional foods from a range of countries.

In November, our wellbeing pupil leaders, Xan Brooks and Isla Young, managed to secure a powerful and personalised message from Danny Care, Harlequins scrum half. His message was simple: that we should all continue to keep speaking up about men’s mental health. We raised money for a men’s mental health charity to help promote discussion of this issue across the school community.

Once again in January, to mark World Religion Day, we invited the Many Faiths group to discuss with our Fifth Form aspects of different faiths: Buddhism, Christianity, Judaism and the Humanist traditions. On Holocaust Memorial Day, we held a candle-lighting event around the fountain on the Sunken Lawn to commemorate those who lost their lives in the Holocaust.

In February we marked LGBT+ History month. Pupils completed tutor time activities to develop their understanding of how laws have affected the LGBT+ community over time. We also celebrated Chinese New Year with a special themed lunch. This was coupled with our Chinese New Year cultural festival in the Long Gallery, with a range of activities on offer for all pupils and staff including calligraphy, music, Chinese chess and lion dance equipment.

To complete the year, in June we had a rainbow-coloured themed lunch to celebrate Pride.

HOUSE REPORTS

BEAUFORT

September 2024 saw the introduction of the Vessey Cup and the Beaufort girls, led by a fiercely competitive Upper Sixth, had their sights set on the prize. Their campaign began with the House Music competition. With ‘Can’t stop the feeling’ as the house song, Anna L’s breathtaking rendition of ‘O mio bambino caro’ and an incredible performance of the Cranberries’ ‘Linger’, it seemed only right that we should come away with a prize. And so we did! With the House Contemporary trophy safely in the cabinet, our campaign was off to a good start.

Next came House Cross-Country, with medal-winning performances for Coco N, Willa K, Natalia P and Olive S. But it was also a team victory, thanks to great participation and house spirit. Had there been a trophy for fancy dress, we would have won that, too. Other significant successes included a closely-contested debating competition and the Charity Christmas Box Appeal, led so brilliantly by Hester Child and Myra Malinga. In House Squash, Beaufort retained their position as junior and senior champions for the fourth year in succession. Portia Carrell – worthy of a lifetime achievement award –played and won this competition each year of her Canford career, such was her dedication to the cause.

Ultimately, Beaufort finished a creditable fourth (and first among the girls' boarding houses) in the coveted Vessey Cup, but we couldn’t have been prouder of the participation and camaraderie which brought the house together to showcase athleticism, creativity, eloquence, inclusivity and sisterhood.

For me, it is this and our sense of family that make Beaufort so special. In October, we were thrilled to welcome Pippa Howarth (OC and governor) back to Beaufort. She was delighted to find that the important things in Beaufort hadn’t changed – not even the matron! She and Sharon – another Beaufort constant – caught up on news of OCs (or perhaps OBs) and their successes and careers and family and friends. Pippa assured us that the friends made in Beaufort are friends made for life. In June, as we said goodbye to the Upper Sixth of 2024/25, who excelled in energy, enthusiasm and indeed their A Levels, we toasted friendships born in Beaufort and built to last a lifetime.

Clare Jess

This was an annus mirabilis for Court – but then I suppose they all are. Court life was vibrant, happy and successful, whether measured by the metrics of exam results, house competitions or – most importantly – staying couth.

It is an undervalued word, couth. Cultured, refined and well-mannered is what it means, and it encompasses kindness and compassion in Court’s take on it. It is certainly not, then, an undervalued quality, and nothing makes a Court Gent™ more proud than when one of our own has been seen to exhibit it. Our Upper Sixth certainly did, and we are grateful for their graceful leadership, their kind guidance and their ultra-light wearing of their numerous achievements. We will miss these wellrounded men – but are delighted to see that a new generation, led by Fred B, Felix L, Harry P and Seb R, are carrying the torch into the new academic year.

Being well-mannered might seem quaint, but we deem it paramount. Having good soft skills is as important as any qualification in today’s competitive market – although Arjun Fan’s five A*s (to give one of many examples of academic success) in his A Levels will clearly be helpful going forward – and I am incredibly proud of the way in which the Courtiers support one another, how they are polite to all they encounter, and how they always try to show their best selves.

That refinement was collectively shown in our stupendous House Song win, at which the Gents’ splendiferous singing of ‘I’m still standing’ was described as ‘suave, unified and energetic’ by the adjudicator. The cultured element has been on show pretty much everywhere, but perhaps most demonstrably in our University Challenge and House Debating wins, in Gabe O’Donnell’s starring turn in Brief Encounter, in the wondrous House Film entry, The Hangover, in the creative cake-baking extravaganza of House Art, in our sophisticated Court Dining Society gatherings and of course in our award-winning House Poetry entries.

The Lower Sixth stanza – masterminded by Georges M – below summarises the Court spirit well: We are athletes; exuberant, exhilarated, exalted. We are artists; immortal, imaginative, impassioned. We are scholars; deliberative, dedicated, decisive. We are companions; affable, affectionate, effective. We are adventurers; bold, brave, boundless. We are architects; stately, stunning, stylish.

We are gentlemen; couth, kind, compassionate. We are Court.

Sindre Vandvik

It has been another busy year for the de Lacy girls as they took on new adventures, opportunities and challenges, learning new skills but notably also energising and supporting one another as they worked together and found time to laugh and develop friendships along the way. It was lovely to welcome the new Shells who, having come from near and far, had a fun mix of experiences to share.

The Fourth Form remained our smallest year group, forming tighter bonds with each other but increasingly with girls from other years. Fifth Form is always a little more stressful as GCSE exams become a focus, but the girls can be proud of their diligent approach.

The study room, dining table and many whiteboards were put to constant use. The Lower Sixth was our largest year, growing to sixteen girls, including joiners.

Integration was quick as this group were not afraid to try things and could be found representing house and school everywhere: on the river, up a mountain,

DE LACY

debating a topic or on the stage. They have big boots to fill as it is hard to believe that the Upper Sixth could fit so much in, laying the groundwork for bright futures yet still finding time for each other.

The girls have pushed themselves and represented the house really well, winning several cups, including the Canford Gallop, but should be especially proud of the way they act as an extended family for each other. The community feel has been strong and it has been great to see them sharing ideas about wellbeing through our house tree and inspiring a new layout through the forum as well as building bonds through our long-standing year group and treat-filled house family events.

There could be a little sadness as some girls and members of the house team move onto their next chapter but I believe they are ready for their next step and I’d like to thank them for all their input.

Sascha Deblander

It has been a brilliant year in Franklin! From the very first day of term, the house has been buzzing with energy, laughter and a sense of purpose. Our aim remains to be a safe, happy and inclusive house where everyone tries their best in all areas of life and it has been wonderful to see this spirit shining through the year.

Our Shells deserve a special mention for settling in so quickly and throwing themselves into house life. House Music provided some of the highlights, early in the year. The whole house belted out ‘Ain’t no mountain high enough’ with huge gusto and enthusiasm. James Lee, Sam Wilmot and Philip Chen delivered a flawless contemporary performance of ‘When I was your man’. Sam, Philip and Tim L played Nocturne no. 9 beautifully too. Sam and Philip, in particular, have given so much to house music over the years. The Christmas Term ended with an excellent performance in House Cross-Country with James Lee second in the senior race and Rollo R third in the Shell race.

The Easter Term brought more success, with Franklin finishing second in both House Debating and House Art; Caspar P needs a particular mention for his superbly baked Nike trainer winning the taste test! There were more group activities with lots of astro time after prep and fire pits in the dark February evenings.

Alongside an excellent work ethic, it was lovely to see pupils so busy in the summer. Josh A-B and Kangho C were outstanding in Arabian Nights and there were strong performances in House Football and House Cricket, with the juniors losing to a combined day side in the final. As the year came to an end with a house party and frequent use of the pizza oven, we said a fond farewell to our Upper Sixth. A fantastic group, they have left their mark on the house in so many ways. Special thanks go to Tom Fox-Pitt, James Dornan and Noah Dance for their excellent leadership. They have guided the house with warmth, humour and determination. From start to finish, it’s been a year full of fun, success and a strong Franklin spirit.

Will Linley-Adams

It has been a privilege to join Lancaster as housemaster this year and to witness first-hand the energy, kindness and ambition that define our community. In 2024/25 Lancaster pupils have excelled across academics, sport, the arts and service, all while showing care for one another. The new Vessey Cup offered a measure of collective effort, and finishing third overall was a superb achievement.

Across the year, Lancastrians excelled academically and in co-curricular life. Pupils entered national competitions, set their sights high with university applications and produced excellent exam results, not least our Fifth Form, who surpassed school averages across the top GCSE grades. Sporting success also came on every stage, from Freya C becoming a world champion to Archie Jones and Harry R representing Wales and England respectively. We also had many fantastic inter-house successes.

We had wins in junior girls’ hockey, Jemima T and Jemima Chappell claimed cross-country victories in Shells and Upper Sixth respectively, and Ethan C stormed home to win the Fifth Form race. Our football teams also performed superbly, particularly our senior boys with their triumph. Relay victories in House Athletics, with superb efforts by our Shell girls and Fifth Form boys, were other memorable

highlights, as was (another!) overall win in the House Regatta.

Lancaster’s creative energy has also been inspiring. House Music brought the whole community together in performance, with Bella Hurd-Wood’s choreography and Emily K’s vocals setting the tone, and we were oh-so-close to a win. Our Sixth Form led Lancaster to numerous successes in House Film, while Lola W launched her imaginative ‘Canford Portrait of the Year’ competition. The charity concert was a further reminder of the range of talent in the house and, displaying both creativity and generosity, raised over £1200 for the Louis Ross Foundation.

From Shells to Upper Sixth, pupils have shown an extraordinary sense of togetherness. The laughter of the waterpark trip and the camaraderie of Christmas dinner reflected a culture rooted in kindness and fun. Our Upper Sixth leave behind a legacy of leadership and pride in Lancaster, ably led by Izzy Balasubramaniam and Woody Woods, both of whom gave so much to the house. They will be greatly missed, but their example will continue to shape the house.

My heartfelt thanks go to pupils, tutors, matron and parents for their support.

James Leigh

Marriotts continues to be an extremely happy community where pupils interact freely between year groups and support each other through tough times. The kindness witnessed this year has been truly heart-warming. Having not been to boarding school myself, I am often envious of the deep friendships I see in the house: those which will last a lifetime, those which are only made when you live together in close quarters.

Saying goodbye to our leavers is a yearly bereavement for the staff as we lose the young people we have seen blossom and develop. They in turn will mourn the loss of this wonderful, safe environment where opportunities and friends are freely available, but at the same time they will embrace the immense excitement of moving into the wider world, making an impact and finding their purpose.

This year’s Upper Sixth was the last group to have experienced the Covid restrictions we had to enforce in 2020/21.They remember a time when education was vulnerable, and so as life gradually returned to normal they had a deep sense of appreciation of what we have on offer at Canford.

This particular year group was instrumental in making sure that every girl knew every other person in the house, they made sure that the house spirit was fiercely alive and they inspired whole house support for competitions and events. All sixteen will be sorely missed, but the ethos which they helped to create will live on in the younger girls moving into their shoes.

Marriotts girls are encouraged to be gentle leaders and this quality shows itself through their hugely warm welcome of newcomers through the year. Our Shells settled quickly, looked after by Upper Sixth leaders as well as Lower Sixth trained mentors. We have also seen several others join mid-year into the Fourth Form and Lower Sixth; they seem to have been amongst us for years, such is their total immersion into the Marriotts way of life.

It is not just the girls who support each other. The staff team is also a close-knit group who work together tirelessly to make sure that Marriotts is the most homely place it could possibly be. My heartfelt thanks go to all of them for their part in helping to create the warmth of Marriotts.

Katie Salmon

If the last couple of years have been full of change for Monteacute, with a new house and then a new housemaster, it feels like this is the year we found our feet again. What hasn’t changed is that the boys have, as always, been superb.

On the academic side there has been both real individual focus and mutual support. At the start of the year I asked all the boys how we could encourage academic effort and performance. They came up with a raft of ideas (both carrot and stick!) to improve motivation, habits and support. The result of this has been some truly outstanding exam results but, more importantly, a significant improvement in the assessment grades that reflect the effort every boy is putting in.

Socially, music and food seem to have been key themes around the house. House Music was, as ever, great fun and the boys did themselves proud. It was ably led by the Upper Sixth and was certainly the most organised I have seen, even bringing in outside consultants from the girls’ houses to aid with choreography! Since then, the enthusiasm hasn’t waned.

If the house has rung with the sound of music, it has also wafted with the smell of cooking. The arrival of Maz Sabine and Maz Ilenia has really upped the standard of cuisine, as they frequently cook with and for the boys. Home-made cinnamon buns, waffles, carbonara and tiramisu are a far cry from the diet of Super Noodles I remember!

Outside the house , it has been a joy to witness the breadth of activities the boys have got stuck into. Dozens of awards have been won in Physics and Maths Olympiads, Monteacutians have been members of highly successful debating and Model UN teams and they have earned school colours in music (as well as an ABRSM Diploma), rugby, hockey, football, Real tennis and rowing.

Great successes are always exciting and it is right that we celebrate them, but perhaps my greatest joy in the house this year has been seeing the boys just giving something a go when it needs doing. It is fast becoming a Monteacute trait, ably demonstrated and encouraged by this year’s outgoing Upper Sixth, to whom I owe a great debt for setting the tone and leading others.

Matthew Pringle

Success breeds success, as the old adage goes, and nowhere was that more evident than in Salisbury during 2024/25. Our Salisburians have once again been characteristically busy, taking leading roles on stage, in the concert hall and in outdoor pursuits. Their energy and commitment never fail to impress us, not only in the sheer range of activities they take on but also in the consistently high quality of what they achieve.

Despite their many commitments beyond the house, the atmosphere within Salisbury has remained strikingly positive and purposeful. The staff team has been especially impressed by the cohesion and teamwork shown across all year groups. From house family assemblies to competition preparations, and even in friendly football matches on the Day House lawn, it has been a joy to witness such a collaborative, supportive spirit. This strong sense of community reached its pinnacle during our annual charity concert, where the Salisbury family raised an outstanding £1100 for Cancer Research and Dementia UK.

We were delighted to appoint Zoë H and James L as our new Heads of House in the Summer Term, as they took over from Anton Cox and Georgia Webb, who stepped back to focus on their A Level studies. Looking ahead, next year presents some changes as the Upper Sixth move to the Hub. Nevertheless, we are committed to making sure every member of Salisbury continues to feel a strong sense of belonging. House assemblies, birthday drinks and social breakfasts will help maintain our traditions, while a new leadership hub within the house will provide a space for collaborative strategy and event planning between the Lower Sixth and Upper Sixth.

As we bid farewell to our outgoing Upper Sixth, we send them our very best wishes. They have embodied the Salisbury can-do spirit throughout their time with us, inspiring the whole house to believe we can match any rival in pride and determination. Their legacy is already evident: it was this cohort whose efforts brought home the inaugural Vessey Cup, an honour that will be forever etched into the history of the house.

Hannah Ryan

SCHOOL HOUSE

This year’s head of house, Leo Vorobyev, chose to challenge the members of the house to ‘make the most of the Canford experience’. His point was that the school offers a plethora of opportunities and it is beholden on the pupils to throw themselves into these, finding their niche and using it as a catalyst for their development. It has been wonderful to see this idea build pace through various initiatives and the amazing things that the boys have been involved in, whether it be an open mic night, Ten Tors, a beach clean-up campaign with 25 of the house community taking part, sporting accolades or the wonderful GCSE and A Level grades that our latest batch of pupils have achieved.

Leo’s challenge links perfectly to one of my four themes that underpin the School House ethos: ‘pursuit of excellence through an insatiable curiosity’. This is not about achieving excellence, but the mentality of derring-do, reaching for boundless horizons, and doing so with a sense of fun, positivity and adventure. The above examples show this philosophy in action at school, but this year has also thrown up examples of this continuing post-Canford, and it is two of these I would like to share with you.

Luke Zamoyski-Freitag (SH22) made contact with me at the end of August, about to head back to university to complete his final year, having completed a sandwich year in Krakow, Poland. However, in a month of volunteering in Kharkiv, Ukraine, Luke worked with both Hell’s Kitchen Kharkiv, and Jack Bon Holly; if you are interested in donating to either of these groups you can find them on Google. In his email he also mentioned the ‘interesting mix of people, from ex-foreign legion troops on leave to a ballet dancer from Kentucky who now builds drones’.

Frederick Bowater (SH24), not satisfied by the typical options, set the aim of cycling to Singapore during his gap year. During the nine-month journey, Frederick travelled 15,515 km through twenty different countries and completed his challenge. This was a truly epic and inspirational journey, showing just what is possible when you put your mind to something. Frederick vlogged his journey on Instagram – search for frederick_cycles.

These are both wonderful examples of School House pupils being insatiably curious and humbly ambitious, taking on Leo’s challenge and then some. I look forward to the next School House leaver’s email and his epic tale!

It has been a wonderful year in Wimborne of enjoying and treasuring the familiar, while embracing the exciting change that is ahead. The Christmas tree trip, Secret Santa, the charity concert, pizzas for pool and the house waterpark trip have remained some of the annual highlights.

The house competitions remain an integral part of maintaining house pride, and this year the maroon face-paint and jerseys have been out in full force, ensuring that Wimborne represented really strongly in House Squash, House Tennis, House Netball, House Hockey and House Cross-Country. Arguably we got the most difficult end of the stick when we had to recreate Frida Kahlo’s portrait as a baked item for House Art, but there was much hilarity amongst the team of Shell and Fourth Form girls who helped to bring this together. Debating has been a real strength and our juniors and seniors both won their respective debates.

The undeniable favourite clan activity this year has been clancake night – why have just one pancake night when you can have six?! The pool competition once again came down to close semi-finals and a tense final, but Hamilton finished strongly, winning their Domino’s pizza evening.

‘Call me maybe’ was a great choice of house song this year and all years got fully behind it. Sadly, the judges didn’t, so we will have to regroup for next year.

The Christmas Term ended with the annual House Cross-country race where our Fifth Form boys came second in their category and the Shell and Fourth Form girls came third, with Gracie T bringing home silver. Once again, the cheerleading and support from all year groups here was outstanding and added to the camaraderie of the event.

The end of the Summer Term is the point at which we said goodbye to our Upper Sixth, who have left us to take up places at excellent universities, to head off on exciting gap years, or to step up into the world of work. As a year group they have been spectacularly fun and caring and they will leave us with many brilliant memories. From illicit bellringing to corridor cricket to wacky charity concert performances, they always kept us entertained and they have been immeasurably important in bringing year groups together in Wimborne.

Naomi Ings

COMMUNITY ACTION COMMUNITY

This year, our service and outreach programme has seen remarkable participation and growth. Over 230 Sixth Form pupils have taken part in a wide array of service-based activities, demonstrating a strong commitment to giving back to both the school and the wider community. Across the programme, we have successfully organised and delivered just under 50 different activities, a testament to the energy, creativity and dedication of everyone involved. An impressive 40 members of staff have played an active role in the programme, offering their time and expertise to guide and support pupils in their volunteering work. Their involvement has been crucial in ensuring the continued success and expansion of the initiative.

On site, pupils have engaged in a rich selection of activities designed to broaden their skills and foster a sense of community. Examples include: the Blue Bubble pupil magazine, where pupils contribute articles and creative content; sign language lessons, which promote inclusive communication; and Chat Club, a virtual exchange where pupils regularly engage in conversations with children in a Kenyan orphanage, building cross-cultural understanding and meaningful connections.

Off site, pupils have made a tangible difference in the lives of many individuals across a variety of local settings. These activities have included: visits to the Wimborne Community Garden, where pupils assist in gardening and environmental projects alongside

Beaucroft School; local care homes, where they spend time talking to and supporting elderly residents; and several primary schools, where they help with reading, tutoring and enrichment activities. These interactions have been highly rewarding for both the pupils and the communities they serve.

The Shine programme has also continued to thrive this year, running throughout the Christmas and Easter Terms. This academic year, we welcomed 40 Year 5 and 6 pupils from five local primary schools to take part in a series of enrichment sessions designed to inspire a love of learning and offer new experiences. Notably, this year marked the fifteenth iteration of the Shine programme – a milestone we were proud to celebrate. The programme included 34 lessons across a broad range of subjects, taught by an enthusiastic team of staff. Pupils had the opportunity to engage with subjects such as Mathematics, English, Modern Foreign Languages, Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Music, Drama, Geography, History and Art. These sessions were designed to be interactive and inspiring, encouraging pupils to explore new topics and build their confidence.

We are particularly pleased that next academic year will see the return of Kingsleigh School, which was one of the original Shine schools when the programme was first launched

in 2010. Their inclusion brings our total to six schools and marks a significant moment in the continued evolution of the programme.

Meanwhile, our City Reach project has continued to grow and flourish. I had the opportunity to visit Southampton three times this year alongside our pupil leaders, and it was heartening to see the strong relationships being built through this initiative. Although City Reach were unable to visit us for their traditional Christmas meal, our back-up plan was activated successfully and they instead came at Easter for a festive meal, swim and party, which was greatly enjoyed by all involved.

The annual sponsored walk has also gone from strength to strength. This year, 51 pupils, staff members and parents took part in the event. It is rapidly becoming a beloved tradition and one of the highlights of the term, bringing the community together in a shared act of fundraising and support.

Overall, it has been an incredibly successful and inspiring year. My grateful thanks go out to Clive Jeffery, who works tirelessly in the background, ensuring that all the logistics and arrangements run smoothly. Without his help and dedication the programme would not function as well as it does.

THE BOURNE ACADEMY

As I complete my second full year as Chair of Governors at the Bourne Academy, I continue to be struck by the strength and vibrancy of the partnership between Canford and the academy. What began over a decade ago as a pioneering collaboration has matured into a living example of how cross-sector partnerships can create extraordinary opportunities for young people, staff and our wider community.

The academy remains an over-subscribed and thriving school, with sixth-formers continuing to achieve positive outcomes, including progression to leading universities. This year we were especially delighted to send our first pupil off to medical school. The ASPIRE values – ambition, self-confidence, physical and emotional literacy, resilience, and independence – remain firmly at the heart of daily school life, evident in classrooms, on the sports field and in the many co-curricular initiatives that enrich the academy’s provision.

The hard work of our staff, pupils and governors was rewarded this year by an extremely positive OFSTED inspection which reflected not only the progress we have made since the last inspection but also the unwavering dedication of all those involved with the academy.

A highlight of this academic year has been the continued success of the Bourne Scholars programme. Now well established, the scheme offers identified pupils from Year 7 upwards an outstanding range of opportunities to develop their academic potential and broaden their horizons. Scholars have once again joined activities at Canford, from academic workshops to sporting events, while also taking part in other initiatives.

The Bourne Academy’s cultural and co-curricular offer continues to go from strength to strength. In April, pupils took part in the 12th Annual MiSST concert at the Barbican Centre, a prestigious national event that brought together young musicians from across the country.

Beyond the arts, the academy has supported pupils to shine in diverse areas. From the debut of ‘The Bourne Buzzard’ Greenpower racing car at Goodwood, to mountain biking successes at the Dorset school games, to the Duke of Edinburgh expeditions across southern England, plus gold award candidates canoeing and camping for five days on Loch Ness, pupils have embraced challenge with enthusiasm and resilience.

Equally striking this year has been the academy’s focus on preparing pupils for their future pathways. The Year 10 work experience programme drew high praise from employers, while Year 12 pupils benefited from research days at Southampton University to support their Extended Project Qualifications. Initiatives such as Future Thinkers, run in partnership with the Southern Universities Network, have also helped younger pupils to gain confidence in considering higher education.

There has also been a renewed emphasis on community values and pupil leadership, and on nurturing socially responsible, engaged citizens. A particularly impactful initiative saw Year 10 pupils lead a knife crime awareness assembly for younger peers, tying in with National Knife Crime Awareness Week.

As always, the partnership with Canford has been central to supporting these endeavours. Our joint initiatives, shared expertise and bursary provision continue to make a tangible

difference to the lives of local young people. It is heartening to see collaboration at every level – between staff, governors and, most importantly, pupils – flourishing year on year.

This year also marks the beginning of a new chapter for Canford under the leadership of its new Headmaster, Chris Wheeler. We look forward to working with him in building further on the remarkable legacy of Ben Vessey, whose steadfast commitment to this partnership over many years has been instrumental in shaping the academy as it is today.

The 2024/25 academic year has been one of progress, aspiration, and community spirit. Recent GCSE and A Level results have been encouraging and it remains a privilege to serve as Chair of Governors and to witness daily the impact of this unique and transformative partnership.

Heidi Leavesley, Chair of Governors

MUSIC Creative Arts

Ibelieve strongly in the power of music: music as a force for good, intertwining communities, catalysing the release of endorphins and inflating children’s balloons of self-belief. So when I arrived in September, given a brief to maintain high standards of music-making at Canford but to open it up to more pupils, I set about doing so with the above philosophy as the central mantra.

This was made easier by the can-do attitude of the wonderful pupils and the excellent team of staff that I inherited. On arrival, I immediately encountered pupils who were keen to give their all and to work hard in front of challenging music and to play or sing their hearts out when performance opportunities came their way. Additionally, the full-time staff team welcomed me with open arms and I am blessed to have such a talented, pupilcentric and collegiate team. An appointment for the outgoing and much-missed James Aiken needed to be made without delay and we did that by selecting James Belassie, a superb musician and pianist who joined us from St Swithun’s, having previously been at King Edward’s Southampton and Cambridge. He took up post in January 2025 and we are delighted to have him on board. Then there are the many peripatetic instrumental and vocal specialists in the department who are excellent, wonderfully caring of their pupils and dedicated in their work at Canford.

So what have I done this year to begin to realise the brief of quality yet

diversity? All of the main structural music events of the year have remained. The House Music competition, autumn concert, carol service, jazz concert and summer concert all held prominent positions on the calendar. House Music was a fanfare of musical enthusiasm and teamwork. The autumn concert was a brilliant occasion and one which demonstrated how hard the pupils work to make such a concert a thrilling and top-quality occasion. The carol service was both tender and triumphant in equal measure, the choirs acquitting themselves brilliantly despite end-of-term illness reducing their number heavily. The jazz concert was positively fizzing with energy and verve and the summer concert

displayed unparalleled variety within its programme, all of which was performed to an excellent standard.

As well as those landmark occasions, we added to the yearly programme of events: Messiah in Christchurch Priory, which was quite an undertaking but a fabulous success; an open mic night gig; and a chamber music concert in Canford Magna church, the latter as part of our community music programme.

During the summer months, we had plenty of externally validated success. There was a good crop of instrumental and singing exams. Over the year we had no fewer than eighteen Grade 8 exams (almost half of which were at distinction) and five

Every one of these pupils plays a part in bringing to life our vision of making excellent music accessible and enjoyable for all.

ARSM diplomas achieved (all at merit or distinction). We are very proud of all of these pupils. Additionally, we had excellent academic examination success, with 100% A*/A at A Level and 57% 8/9 (A* in old money) at GCSE. Finally, we saw one of our pupils invited to play for the King of Sweden and the opening of the Swedish Parliament to complement his already busy schedule, playing cello concerti with many brilliant professional orchestras both here and abroad.

I have been thoroughly impressed with all the Canford pupils and their positivity and contribution to all things musical. We have many excellent musicians here and we also have many musicians who use music as a stress-reliever and gentle hobby. Every one of these pupils plays a part in bringing to life our vision of making excellent music accessible and enjoyable for all. Music at Canford absolutely is a powerful force for good. Long may that continue.

William Ings

Autumn concert

With the crisp autumn leaves beginning to fall, a warm glow beckoned parents, pupils and staff into the concert hall for this muchanticipated first full concert of the academic year. The buzz at the pre-concert drinks, organised by the Friends of Canford Music, set the stage for a memorable evening. This was not only the debut performance of the year but also the first concert under our new Director of Music, Will Ings. From the very start, it was clear that this would be a night to remember.

The programme was a vibrant mix of classic and contemporary pieces, showcasing the diverse talent within the school. The evening opened with the Big Band, who performed Zawinul’s ‘Birdland’ and Pharrell Williams’s ‘Happy’. The lively brass section, supported by Mr Ings on the keyboard and Will Vessey on drums, brought infectious energy to the stage. Tom Covell’s trumpet solo – the first of several in the evening – added a memorable touch to the upbeat performance, and the audience couldn’t help but smile.

Following the Big Band, the Salisbury Chamber Trio, winners of the 2024 House Music competition (classical), offered a more intimate moment with Dvořák’s ‘Humoresque’. The trio, featuring Henry S (piano), BBC

Young Musician finalist Hugo S (cello) and Freya S (violin), displayed exceptional musicality. Their cohesive and dramatic interpretation of the piece captivated the audience, and it is clear that these talented musicians will be ones to watch.

The next highlight came from the Cantabile girls’ choir, only six weeks into their time at Canford. Despite their short time together, this 23-strong Shell ensemble displayed remarkable vocal maturity and ‘courageous attitude’ in their performance of ‘Every time I feel the spirit’ (arr. Unterseher). Their range and purity of tone were exceptional, demonstrating the girls’ promising choral futures.

Next, the newly-formed Clarinet Quintet, led by Kunwho P on clarinet, performed Mozart’s Quintet in A major (K581). Accompanied by a string quartet (Teddy M, Lily K, Tom C and Hugo S), Kunwho ably led the audience into a period of reflection. The performance was a wonderful showcase of Canford’s musical leaders, who firmly embody the school value of ‘gracious leadership’ and their ability to offer nuanced and emotive performances.

The reflective mood was enhanced by the Chamber Choir, who performed ‘Jesu dulcis memoria’ by Shephard, followed by the Orchestra’s performance of Elgar’s ‘Enigma Variations’, including the famous ‘Nimrod’. These pieces, previously performed during the Remembrance Service, were given new life in the concert setting, where the performers’ musicality could truly shine.

Nevertheless, the mood quickly shifted as the Orchestra took on Dvořák’s lively Slavonic Dance Op. 46 No. 8. Under the baton of Alistair Hardie, the orchestra brought out the playful rhythms and vibrant energy of the piece. The syncopated rhythms in the strings, supported by brass and percussion, created an infectious energy in the concert hall, lifting the spirits of the audience.

The evening concluded with performances from the Concert Band, led by Katie Salmon, and the Wind Orchestra, led by Sarah Holloway. Their programme included crowd-pleasers like ‘My heart will go on’ (Homer), ‘Don’t stop me now’ (Mercury), and ‘Variations on “Over the rainbow”’ (Arlen, arr. Philippe).

The musicians, from the youngest Shell pupils to the most seasoned wind players, played with enthusiasm and purpose.

Fittingly, a surprise encore led to a reprise of ‘Happy’, and the audience left the hall singing, clapping and smiling. The autumn concert set a truly happy – and high – standard for the year ahead and it is clear that the future of Canford music under Mr Ings’s leadership is bright. Everyone left with a sense of pride in our talented musicians and excitement for the performances to come. Catherine Perkins

Big Band and the Big Screen

With the passing of the baton from the outgoing maestro, Chris Sparkhall, to the new Director of Music, William Ings, would the annual jazz concert be the thread of continuity to keep the Friends of Canford Music and their guests happy? The answer was an unequivocal ‘yes’. Mr Ings (ably assisted by Mr Hardie and a second ‘newbie’, Mr Belassie), the Orchestra, the Wind Orchestra and the Big Band entertained us most royally in a packed Music School concert hall with renditions culled from the big screen.

To start, the Orchestra gave us some wonderful super-spy action sounds, first from Mission Impossible (accompanied by a suitably electric light show) with Lalo Schifrin’s syncopated and urgent rhythms evoking a real feel for, maybe, the running feet of Ethan Hunt, or perhaps even his pulse rate as the plot pressures built. Then a medley of 007 melodies: first Monty Norman’s iconic main theme, followed by Daisy T (‘Goldfinger’) and Emi Bell (‘Nobody does it better’) joining the

Orchestra on vocals – Adele had better look to her Skyfall laurels. Did I mention ‘Live and let die’, with its punchy brass interjections?

Then the Wind Orchestra journeyed from the Viking North (How to Train Your Dragon) to the Windy City of clubland Chicago: the former evoked windswept, wide and swooping open spaces ideal for some educational aerial peregrinations, while the latter was sassy, brassy, jazzy and classy. The Orchestra’s finale was an up-tempo, toe-tapping skitter through the Chicago main theme until the brakes were applied for a solid, foot-stomping final phrase.

Then, at the break, we had an innovation with some small groups, made up of our most accomplished pupil ‘jazzers’, who mixed in some eclectic interval music: a funky sax-and-trumpet duet of the Bill Withers classic, ‘Just the two of us’, and a beautiful rendition of ‘How ’bout a dance’ from Mimi D. Then back to some instrumental virtuosity for Miles Davis’s ‘So what’. Hardly an appropriate title, given that these intermezzos were a particular highlight of the evening for this listener.

Finally, the Big Band gave us a selection of modern classics: from Pee Wee Ellis’s ‘The chicken’ (accented and punchy) to Pharrell Williams’s ‘Happy’ (and we certainly were), and then Molly Rodber as chanteuse for Michael Bublé’s ‘Everything’, Herbie Hancock’s ‘Chameleon’, through the fabulous family of The Incredibles with its racy and heart-stimulating, driving melody, and then full circle to

Weather Report’s ‘Birdland’. This is one of those classics that will always bring a smile to the faces of every member of an audience; however bad things may seem beforehand, those running rhythms and the incessant and insistent rim-clicks elevate the soul and persuade the collective heart to beat along to the tempo.

So music at Canford – and particularly the brazen, brassy, jaunty, jazzy, pulsating, pumping variety – is alive and kicking. Perhaps a mention here (invidious though it is) to some of our departing stalwarts: silky smooth on alto sax, Leon Keating; tight on the trumpet, Tom Covell; voice of a (jazz-club) angel, Molly Rodber. And then, of course, there is always Will ‘Sticks’ Vessey. Yet one thing I have learnt over the years is that as every group of talented ‘jazzers’ passes out, a whole new gang of ‘pretenders’ steps forward to take their place; there is such a wealth of talent bubbling up to push themselves forward.

Jo Toy

‘Iam confident that tonight’s Messiah experience will provide life-long memories for all our young performers.’ So wrote Canford’s new Director of Music, William Ings, in his programme note. His confidence was fully justified, not only for the singers but for the audience, who were treated to a performance of this ‘musical treasure’ (William’s words again) for which ‘unforgettable’ is not too high praise. Pupils were primarily involved in the choruses, and it is the memory of those that will linger longest. The choir’s balance, purity of diction and collective musicality were outstanding. Their quality was obvious from their first contribution, ‘And the glory of the Lord’, but they really hit their stride with ‘For unto us a child is born’, giving full value to those fortissimo cries of joyful worship, ‘Wonderful… Counsellor… the Mighty God…the Everlasting Father…Prince of Peace’. However, they were equally impressive in the choruses that require more subtle light and shade, such as the moving ‘Behold the Lamb of God’ which began the second half. Soon after came the ‘Hallelujah Chorus’, in which the sopranos, with the sturdy backing of the other voices, sent the top Gs of ‘Lord of Lords’ soaring into the

Priory’s vaulted roof. And we were sent on our way by the glorious harmonies of the great ‘Amen’, which can easily run out of control but here was beautifully sung.

A delightful innovation was the participation of the Dumpton Senior Choir in a number of the choruses, to which they made a full and enthusiastic contribution. In five or six years, perhaps some of them will be leaders of Canford’s musical community.

Young professional singers were brought in as the soprano, tenor and bass soloists, but three pupils were each given a solo and lost nothing by comparison with them.

Daisy T and Amelia Frost respectively sang the soprano arias, ‘He shall feed his flock’ and ‘How beautiful are the feet’ with great maturity and musicality. In ‘The people that walked in darkness’, Cameron C showed that he already has the promise which, with the richness that experience and confidence will bring, will develop into a fine bass voice. Some sections of the original oratorio were omitted, and the only surviving alto solo was the first part of ‘He shall feed his flock’, which was beautifully sung by Grace Cecil-Wright. One would have liked to hear her tackle ‘He was despised’, but it was one of the

casualties of the understandable need to keep the performance to a manageable length.

Two pupils (including a Shell) played in the orchestra, which was otherwise a mixture of professionals, members of the school’s music staff and other adult friends of Canford, and which set the standard for the singers to reach. The performance was conducted by William Ings, the culmination for him of four months of intensive rehearsals. In the programme he generously acknowledged all the help he had received, but the lion’s share of the credit for such a memorable evening belongs to him.

Did this Messiah represent a slight change of direction? It is some eight years since the Canford Choral Society, which was open to anyone with a connection to the school (parents, ex-parents, non-teaching staff as well as pupils), fell by the wayside and no choral work of this magnitude has featured in a Canford concert since then. Let us hope that it will not be another eight years before Canford next performs an oratorio – but this performance set the bar very high.

John Newth

Messiah at Christchurch Priory

DRAMA Creative Arts

The great stage director, Peter Brook, wrote in his seminal book on theatre, The Empty Space: ‘I can take any empty space and call it a bare stage. A man walks across this empty space whilst someone else is watching him, and this is all that is needed for an act of theatre to be engaged.’

I recently read this chapter again as I was packing up my bookshelves in the Layard and it reminded me that this year we are saying goodbye to the year group that started as Shells in the Covid year: empty spaces, singular performers, minimal sets and limited audiences. When restrictions were in place and creative arts were, like so many things in the world at that time, facing uncertainty, the desire to create and produce was perhaps even more keenly felt. We did all we could to create drama for our Canford community, however small an audience might be and however limited the opportunities to produce fullblown productions were. We staged online productions, filmed monologues and were possibly the only theatre in the country at one point who managed to put a play on stage with a live, though highly distanced, audience; Chatroom, with its opening stage direction of six chairs, two metres apart, could have been written for a pandemic!

We are now lucky to be back to our new normal. I say ‘new normal’ as I believe we are still feeling the aftereffects of the pandemic. What has remained and will never change when it comes to theatre and drama is the passion and commitment of pupils who want to come to the Layard to create, to find their creative tribe and to feel safe to be themselves even when being someone else.

When I look back on this academic year, what I see from our productions, even more so than normal, is the need to tell stories. Stories that can take us away from the often bleak news of the day and feed our souls with joy, hope and learning. There is no better thing than escaping reality by sitting in a dark theatre and watching stories told live by actors, designers and directors who all take pleasure and pride in the creative medium of drama.

Grimm Tales, new stories created by our drama classes; a creative adaptation of Brief Encounter fusing cinema and theatre; Alex Pan’s panto, Charming; a physically powerful adaptation of Kafka’s Metamorphosis; Felix de M’s The Frost Report; a musical adaptation of Kipling’s Just So stories; Evie C directing Road; the adaptation of many stories in Arabian Nights: story after story exploring themes, characters and life, some recognisable and some new. Some stories relatable, some there to make audiences think and some just to entertain and help us switch off and escape the world we live in. It has been an eclectic year of theatrical styles, writing and productions but stories have been told with imagination, flair and passion and enjoyed by many.

The list of reasons why drama is important is well documented: drama breeds confidence, drama develops creativity, drama improves verbal and nonverbal communication skills, drama develops empathy and encourages teamwork and collaboration. It also develops new friendships and this is a wonderful thing. The Layard is a magnificent venue, staffed by talented, generous people and filled with impressive pupils. It has been a pleasure to lead it over the last five years and my thanks go to all who have entered the doors of the theatre to support Canford drama in whatever way that they did.

Rikki Jackson

Brief Encounter

The school production of Brief Encounter was a moving and impressively mature retelling of Noël Coward’s classic tale of love and longing. From the first sweep of Rachmaninov’s music to the final quiet farewell, the cast delivered a performance that was emotionally rich and beautifully staged.

At the heart of the story, Layla Fergusson as Laura and Gabe O’Donnell as Alec gave performances that far surpassed expectations for a school production. Layla portrayed Laura’s inner conflict with a remarkable subtlety, capturing both her sense of duty and her desperate yearning. Her command of the stage and emotional clarity brought real gravitas to the role. Gabe, as the charming, sincere and sensitive Alec, matched her with a natural and believable performance, imbuing his character with warmth and quiet intensity. Together, their chemistry was compelling and heartbreakingly convincing, drawing the audience into their brief but deeply affecting connection.

The supporting cast contributed significantly to the atmosphere of the piece, with well-timed moments of levity and strong ensemble work, particularly from the actors portraying Myrtle, Albert and Dolly. The set design and lighting were highly effective, creating the evocative ambience of a 1940s railway station, while the live band under the direction of Adrian Chan added a rich emotional layer to the production.

Backstage, the crew ran a tight ship, with seamless scene changes and thoughtful sound design enhancing the drama without overpowering it. Stage managers Zoe W and Serena G, along with their team, ensured that the performance flowed effortlessly.

This was a truly impressive production that demonstrated the talent, discipline and dedication of everyone involved. With Layla and Gabe leading the cast, Brief Encounter became more than just a play – it was a wellbalanced, deeply felt theatrical experience.

Richard Redwood

Just So is notable for its imaginative but basically simple story, its lively score, its large proportion of ensemble numbers and the opportunity for almost boundless ingenuity in design, costume and staging. That creativity was given full rein in this excellent production, and credit must go to director Helen Ryan, to choreographer Claire Camble Hutchins (who also supervised the costumes) and to Kevin Wilkins for yet another brilliant set, consisting largely of boxes that served as stairways, projection screens for the creative lighting effects, and rostra. The band under James Belassie lost nothing by comparison with the quality of the rest of the show.

Based on Kipling’s classic Just So Stories, the plot follows the Elephant’s Child, who goes on a quest to find Pau Amma the crab, to ask him to stop ‘playing with the sea’: that is, causing enormous tides. With the Kolokolo Bird, he learns how, for example, the elephant got his trunk, the leopard his spots and the rhino his saggy skin. In the end the crab is conquered and it is agreed to let the moon control the tides in future.

The creative team could not have been better served by the cast. The Elephant’s Child and the Kolokolo Bird were endearing and their developing relationship was touching. Shadowing them throughout as a sort of chorus were the three Eldest Magicians, who sang beautifully and moved with great dignity. Other performances of note came from the Parsee Chef, a talented comedian, the three-headed Crocodile and – stretching incredulity – a walking, talking (and singing) Cooking Stove.

But it is the ensemble numbers that will stay in the memory for their energy and enthusiasm, not to mention the huge amount of work that went into creating, learning and rehearsing them. The opening number, the ‘Parsee Cake-Walk’ and a tap routine led by a Giraffe and Zebra straight from the swinging ’sixties were all outstanding.

John Newth

Just So

Just

So

What a fabulous night! From beginning to end, the audience was drawn into a magical world full of colour and innovation. The set was a visual feast – the tales projected as a stack of books enveloping a central staircase, acting as a portal into each new world. Immediately, it felt as if the audience had been transported into their childhood, evident in the mix of wonder and excitement on the audience’s faces. Each of the tales is framed within a single story where our storyteller, Shahrazad, here skilfully played, must tell King Shahryar a captivating tale each night to delay her own execution.

As each of the ten tales came to life, the actors displayed their virtuosity by taking on a different role. It is hard to choose standout performances from such a talented cast, but aside from Shahrazad and King Shahryar, special mention must be made of those playing Dunyazad, the Jester, Sinbad and Ali Baba. Strong performances by the rest of the cast were supported by the effective use of a chorus throughout, helping to bring a complex series of tales into a coherent whole. I particularly enjoyed the magic of tales such as ‘Ali Baba’, ‘Es-Sinbad the sailor’, ‘How Abu Hassan broke wind’ and the framing of the story of ‘Shahrazad.’

Managing this whole process was down to the inspiring visual direction of Jack Shannon and his crew, alongside the innovative design work of Kevin Wilkins and his team. Special mention goes to the skill with which the complex needs of the lighting design were managed throughout the show.

By the end of the evening, the audience felt as if they had been carried off on their own magical carpet to a dreamlike world deeply entrenched within their childhood. It was an evening that we need when the reality that greets us outside can often make us forget that there is still room for magic in our lives.

Rachel Dawick

Arabian Nights

For some years now I have wanted to start the year with a drawing trip to a very special beach, but each year we have been thwarted by the weather. I am keen to take any opportunity for our artists to get out and about: to be inspired, to draw, to take photographs and to collect interesting things (as well as to chat and get to know each other). My other motivation is that I can share one of the most beautiful local locations, somewhere that really is my happy place. This September, thankfully, the sun shone and we were finally able to escape for a perfect few hours to Hengistbury Head. The whole teaching team accompanied a lovely group of creatives to make artwork including developing cyanotype prints using found beach materials, drawing, and making porcelain sgraffito tiles in situ that were fired on our return to school. It was all I imagined: quality time together creating art and making friendships.

Our artist in residence, Jeroen Cavents, settled in quickly, setting up an inspiring studio space in the main Art School and developing his own body of work inspired by our locale and cities including Brighton, Bristol and London. Culminating in several thought-provoking exhibitions, his photography, print and sculpture offered us a glimpse of Britain – our culture, idiosyncrasies and quotidian details. Pupils, staff and parents engaged with many opportunities to discuss his ideological perspectives and to experiment with a wide variety of techniques including cyanotype and salt printing, screen print, papermaking and curatorial practice. OCs and parents were treated to a tailor-made workshop using found materials to create unique cyanotype prints. Jeroen’s presence in the department was marked by the strength of his intellect and creativity: a calm, patient and kind personality as well as a wealth of knowledge and experience. We will miss all that he brought to our creative community and his constant whistling that signified his presence and his happiness in his work.

This year’s House Art competition challenged pupils to recreate objects and artwork in baked form: biscuit, cake and bread. It was an event that involved collegiality, fun and a healthy dose of competitiveness. It was a fantastic opportunity for pupils to use their imagination and work together to create their unique baked artworks. Salisbury were overall House Ar t winners with a fantastic representation of Morag Myerscough’s graphic design installation, ‘Make Happy’. The nine layers of colourful, tasty sponge cake revealed a cascade of jellybeans and sweets when cut open. It was cleverly designed, carefully iced and there was plenty of involvement

Creative Arts

ART

across the house, ultimately a deserving winner. Fr anklin came second with an excellent sponge cake shaped like a colourful Nike Air Max 90s trainer, a classic. The cake was light (probably the best sponge!) and the shoe carefully constructed into three dimensions. Other notable submissions included a gingerbread cuckoo clock, a Fabergé egg and a monumental version of ‘The Raft of Medusa’ by Théodore Géricault.

Upper Sixth pupil Hannah Jeffery competed in the semi-final of Articulation in association with the National Gallery. This national initiative aims to engage young people with art, regardless of their background or experience, and develops their confidence and ability to express their opinions, thoughts and conclusions. Hannah presented a confident talk about her reaction to an artist’s obsession, specifically Francis Bacon’s body of work responding to Velázquez’s ‘Portrait of Pope Innocent X’. Hannah achieved an A* at A Level and will continue her studies with a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design. She has a bright future ahead of her.

Our A Level cohort were a very strong group and all achieved grades A*-B. The end of year exhibition reflected their individuality, broad imagination, creative intelligence and quality of making. From machine knit, drawing, ceramics, textiles and print to animation, film and photography, their work encompassed a spectrum of ideas and approaches. Thoughtfully curated and professionally displayed, it marked the culmination of a successful year.

Each year we are invited to visit the Arts University Bournemouth to listen to the annual lecture given on behalf of the Dorset Arts Society. It is a real privilege and this year a very special occasion. The focus was ‘Photography’, and we were delighted that Lee Miller’s and Sir Roland Penrose’s son, Anthony Penrose, agreed to give this year’s lecture. Just before World War 2, Lee met and married Sir Roland Penrose, a famous surrealist, painter, photographer, poet and biographer, and they had one son whose lifetime’s work is archiving his mother’s work and lecturing about it. The film Lee was released in September 2024, starring and directed by Kate Winslet. As well as showing Lee’s incredible photographic skills, it explores the relationship that Roland had with his mother: a very powerful and thought-provoking film.

During the 1920s and 1930s Lee Miller enjoyed a successful career as a model, but it is for her later work as a wartime photographer that she is best remembered. Being determined to reveal the horrors of wartime atrocities propelled her into an unforgettable driving force. The lecture was impactful, emotional and enlightening. The pupils were so appreciative of the opportunity to listen to Mr Penrose and understand his unique personal perspective of this amazing artist.

In other areas of school life, our new pupil leader, Lola W, marked the departure of our Headmaster, Ben Vessey, with a ‘Portrait Artist of the Year’ event, open to everyone and held in the new College building. She invited pupils to draw and paint a portrait of Mr Vessey. The winners were Henry L, Toby B, Maya D and Amelia M. As a surprise Lola presented Mr Vessey with a beautifully printed book featuring each portrait, some more complimentary than others. I’m sure it will be a treasured possession for years to come!

Nicola Will

Canford The Community

Old Canfordians – a lifelong connection

One of the most enduring hallmarks of a Canford education is the sense of community that continues long after pupils leave the school. The Development Office helps to keep Old Canfordians (OCs) connected – to each other and to their school – and it is always a joy to see friendships rekindled and new relationships formed.

This year, reunion lunches for the classes of 1975, 1985, 1995 and 2005 brought together OCs spanning four decades, all united by their shared Canford experience. In London, our young alumni event, Clink & Connect – for those who left within the past ten years – returned for a second year with a fantastic turnout. The evening also provided a fitting opportunity for OCs from the Vessey era to bid farewell to Headmaster Ben Vessey.

Sport remains a vibrant part of the Canford story, and our OC sports programme continues to grow. A Real tennis day in February and two OC football fixtures showcased the enthusiasm of our alumni community, while plans are already in place for the return of OC hockey day and the launch of an OC netball day in 2026.

The summer season concluded in style with our annual Henley Royal Regatta lunch reception, where OCs, parents and current Canfordian rowers came together to celebrate a proud tradition. Seeing so many Canford blazers gathered along the riverbank was a memorable highlight of the year.

It is always a joy to see friendships rekindled and new relationships formed.

Friends of Canford

Our various Friends groups also continued to flourish, providing wonderful opportunities for parents, OCs and the wider community to come together in support of the school. Events such as the ever-popular quiz night, golf day, boat club dinner and jazz concert, along with many smaller gatherings, made the most of Canford’s superb facilities and reflected the warmth and generosity of our community.

Canford Global Connect

Our Canford Global Connect platform continues to strengthen ties between alumni and the school, now with more than 2750 members worldwide. It enables OCs to share news, collaborate professionally and remain engaged with Canford life wherever they are.

Alongside the platform, our new-look e-newsletter has quickly become a valued way of sharing updates across the Canford community: highlighting events, celebrating achievements and ensuring that parents, OCs and friends of the school feel part of Canford’s continuing story.

Rowena Gaston

Friends of Canford School

This year we have again run our fundraising events, which are a great chance for parents to experience some of the facilities their children enjoy at school: a taster of the complex game of Real tennis, trying rifle shooting on the range, our fascinating history tour of the school manor house and learning about the 400+ tree species in the grounds on the arboretum tour.

Quiz night is our biggest fund-raiser and was enjoyed by many, while the spring lunch is always a popular and delicious affair. This year saw Lottie Longman, Mrs Vessey’s sister (pictured), speak about her sustainable floristry business, her well-connected customers, her Royal Warrant and practical tips on modern arrangements and planting your own flower garden. The sun shone for our golf day, when teams battled it out on the school’s golf course before enjoying a sociable BBQ under the trees.

During the year, FCS have provided support grants to partnership projects at City Reach in Southampton, Bourne Academy and food drives for Wimborne food bank. For the first time this year, we helped fund the ‘Poverty Trap’ immersive

Friends of Canford Music

Wworkshop for the Shell year group, where they got to experience a simulation of the extremely tough living conditions of a city slum.

Jo Walpole

ill Ings and his team in the Music Department have carried forward the brilliant musicianship for which the department is known and introduced a series of initiatives, supported by the Friends, to encourage all pupils across the school to get involved with music-making in various forms.

This year, the familiar itinerary of in-house events has involved all orchestral and choral ensembles and included the particularly convivial atmosphere of the Easter Term ‘Big band and the big screen’ concert. The Music School was arranged club-style with tables decorated by the Academy of Floristry, and pupils served canapés during the interval to complement drinks from the Friends’ bar. The summer concert, again complemented by the welcoming atmosphere created by the Friends’ outdoor bar and a string quartet, drew the year to a close in a joyful culmination of musical activity with performances across the board.

The Friends of Canford Music is formed of volunteer parents who support the activities of the department. We provide the Friends’ bar, whose proceeds go towards music bursaries and other invaluable initiatives. If you would be willing to offer very occasional help once a term at a concert, please contact Sarah Holloway, Music Office Manager, at slh@canford.com

Charlotte Bowater

Friends of Canford Rowing

While the Christmas Term started with what is becoming the customary challenging river conditions, the Canford rowing parent body rallied behind the pupils and staff. The rowers loved using their new quad boat and were so appreciative of the anonymous donor who matched the boathouse fundraising for the last two years, to enable its purchase. In the Easter Term, the FoCR hosted an Easter cake and coffee morning which was extremely well attended.

The Summer Term witnessed our annual House Regatta. Braving torrential downpours throughout, it was great fun to see two boats competing in the parents’ race with Headmaster Ben Vessey showing his prowess with blades. The Boat Club dinner and auction followed, with a fantastic speech given by 2024 Olympic bronze medallist Matt Aldridge. A special moment followed when parents joined forces to name a boat after Ben Vessey.

The end of the Summer Term saw the retirement of our hugely knowledgeable, dedicated and passionate Director of Rowing for over twenty years, Ian Dryden. It was lovely to see so many parents, current and former rowers in attendance at the marquee lunch at Henley Royal Regatta to wish him well.

Alex Crowhurst-Jones

Old Canfordian Society

During the year, the Old Canfordian Society has focussed on the committee’s proposal to donate the society’s funds to the Martin Marriott Foundation, and on recruiting committee members. The committee is dedicated to working closely with the school to ensure that Old Canfordians of all ages have access to information, events and alumni support services such as career networking and mentoring. Alongside this, many Old

Canfordians have supported activities for pupils, notably the careers convention for sixth-formers, and attended OC reunions and sports events.

The highlight of our year was the London drinks party, held at the Royal Theatre, Drury Lane, where OCs of all ages enjoyed drinks in the Grand Saloon while sharing memories of Canford, rekindling friendships and making new connections. A group of OCs also enjoyed a history tour of parts of the theatre,

hearing tales of famous patrons and thespians – and ghosts. This event was also an opportunity to thank Rowena and Rachael, the school’s Development team, for all they have done for OCs over the past year and to wish Ben Vessey all the best in his future adventures, thanking him for his commitment to enhancing the school’s relationship with OCs.

Sheila Way

FROM THE BURSARY

A SUMMER’S TALE

The last few years have seen an extensive programme of building and renovation on the Canford estate, with the new library, the conversion of the old library, two new boarding houses and now the Sixth Form College. My recent contributions to The Canfordian have inevitably focussed on these developments, so this year I’m shedding some light on activities which those who see the school only in term-time may not know much about.

Whilst the vast majority of Canford’s income is derived from fees charged for our core ‘business’ –running a top-quality independent boarding and day school – it is increasingly important to supplement that fee income by sweating our assets as far as we possibly can. Given the need to prioritise the needs of our pupils during term-time, the long summer break is our best opportunity to make commercial hay while the sun literally shines. So as soon as our pupils and teaching staff headed off for a well-earned break at the end of June, the school’s commercial team stepped into the spotlight – and they certainly made the most of it! This summer was packed with vibrant, high-energy events that brought Canford to life.

Kicking things off with a bang in the first week of the holidays, Canford welcomed hundreds of children to perform in their annual shows in the Layard Theatre, hosted weddings in the Manor House, and staged a ‘Celebration of Life’ in the Old Library, choir concerts in the Great Hall, school graduations at Gisborough Hall and a variety of Sixth Form proms, art workshops, plus countless other special occasions for the local community.

After the jam-packed first week, Canford saw the arrival of multiple residential camps. Summer Boarding Courses (SBC) returned for their annual five-week stay, hosting hundreds of international pupils and providing a range of exciting educational courses, including English, Business and STEM-based programmes. We also hosted a group from AFC Bournemouth Communities, and a girls’ golf team. All of these groups took full advantage of the amazing facilities and provisions that Canford has to offer, utilising sporting, teaching, boarding and social spaces to their full extent.

More than 120 children attended the Canford Summer Sports Academies in August, where they had the opportunity to get a taste of some of the outstanding sports available at Canford, including rugby, netball, hockey, rowing, football, golf and multisports. Run by our own sports coaches, this weeklong course’s fun-filled and action-packed programme is always extremely popular.

On top of this, there was an impressive variety of summer events that enticed thousands of people from the local community and beyond to Canford. Brownsea Open Air Theatre relocated for the first time in their 60-year history away from the island, presenting spectacular performances of Shakespeare’s The Winter’s Tale. It was a huge success, with sell-out crowds across the eight performances, and with some fabulous feedback from the audiences about the stunning new venue, delicious BBQ offerings and friendly staff.

The Canford Summer Fair was next on the schedule of events, showcasing over 130 local food, artisan, craft, home, garden and wellness stalls. With live music, street-food picnic areas, kids’ activities and a weekend of glorious sunshine, there was a great atmosphere and a lot of enjoyment had by the thousands who flocked to the site.

The summer’s crescendo was a veritable high, as Canford hosted over 6000 visitors for the Canford Classic and Supercar Sunday. With hundreds of cars on show, including some extremely exclusive and impressive supercars, the crowds were wowed by all of the exhibitor vehicles, and everyone had a fabulous day out with VIP hospitality, live music and a delicious range of food vendors on hand.

Of course, it was ‘business as usual’ for many other of our commercial teams, ensuring that all the members from our sports centre, golf club, Real tennis and squash club and all of those using our fantastic sporting facilities were well looked after. No sooner had our pupils returned to school in early September than the planning started for next summer, with bookings already confirmed for the main events of 2026 – let’s hope the weather is as glorious as it was this year.

David Brook

Top: SBC pupil s enjoying their summer camp

Above left: The school’s stall at the Summer Fair

Above right: The Summer Sports Academy: what is the collective noun for golfers?

Left: A colourful array of cars on show at the Canford Classic & Supercar Sunday

Outdoor Activities

CCF

The Canford CCF remains a much-envied entity in the sector. With a plethora of opportunities both internal and external on offer to the cadets, there is much for the pupils to get involved in. This is evidenced in the consistently high uptake by the Fourth Form cadets choosing one of our three detachments for their Monday Enterprise. These healthy numbers continue through into the upper years as we have more wishing to take part as NCOs in the Sixth Form than we have spaces to provide. A record 23 have continued into the Upper Sixth this year and so completed four years with us in the cadets. Their passion and energy has been the driving force behind much of the year’s success.

Several of our cadets have been looking at potential careers in the military post-Canford. Over the year we have had two more Army scholarships awarded to pupils, two more progressing through the officer selection process and one joining the reserves in their gap year. We remain able to support those pupils

with such aspirations while also providing a fun and engaging environment for those who will not end up serving in the military. Canford’s performances in both the Rifles Cup and the Pringle Trophy also continued to excel. With the Pringle Trophy pitting the nation’s Royal Marine cadet units against each other, competition is fierce. They are tested on their military skills over two days, culminating in a best effort through the Commando endurance course at Woodbury Common, near Lympstone. Our team won multiple stands and achieved second place overall, narrowly pipped to the post for the overall win. This represented Canford’s best finish for a decade.

Eager not to be outdone, the Army detachment sent a team to the Rifles Cup with hopes of a third win for the school. The team of nine cadets took part in the two-day competition at the end of September. The competition was run across Sennybridge training area, on the northern edge of the Brecon Beacons and home to the Infantry Battle School. With stands

of the same type as at the Pringle Trophy, the Canford team acquitted themselves superbly but also came second against strong competition, extending our record of placing in the top two in each iteration. The challenge involved in these competitions as well as the resilience, teamwork and leadership required will serve the participants well as they transfer them into other areas of life.

This is also true of our offering on a typical parade afternoon, with the Sixth Form NCOs leading the younger years through the training as either section commanders or instructors. This ownership and inter-year community serves as a great practical application of core life skills. We routinely ask much of our senior cadets and they always deliver. The training reaches its pinnacles at our two whole-day enterprises. Making use of the skills learned through the year, cadets experience living in the field and taking part in events based on the content they have been taught. Whether this is paddleboarding around the Solent, charging through the sand dunes, forming snap ambushes or moving through buildings clearing out ‘enemy’ positions, it leads to a great deal of adventure.

The contingent is also committed to offering several areas for adventurous training. Ten Tors is a big element of our offering and we continue to enter teams into both the 35- and 45-mile events from the Fourth Form and Lower Sixth year groups. The Norway cross-country skiing expedition continues to be a crown jewel in the trips offered by the school and the 30 fourth-formers lucky enough to attend are pushed outside their comfort zone as they go from beginner to explorer

on their three-day expedition. We have also continued to be able to offer a trip to the Cairngorms to take part in some climbing in cold conditions, where ice axes and crampons are the necessary tools of the trade.

The whole year culminated once again with the now annual Canford battle camp. We continue to be blessed with strong support from 1 RIFLES, who sent personnel back from Cyprus to facilitate our training week. Learning the fundamentals of platoon level tactics, Canford pupils had a more comprehensive look at how the modern military operates. This finished with a dawn assault on the abandoned buildings of Caerwent to test the pupils’ ability to work cohesively as a unit.

All these aspects of Canford CCF would not be possible without the tremendous time and effort put in by the staff who make up our officer corps. Sadly for us, Major Rob Hoey has moved to exciting pastures new this year. He has while at Canford taken the lead on the adventure training trips mentioned above and lifted our Royal Marine detachment to new heights. He will be missed, but we wish him well and he leaves the contingent in rude health.

Major W A Moreland

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme

An actual record of thoughts on doing a Gold DofE residential:

‘The residential is the bit of DofE I’m least looking forward to…. I’d much rather be spending holiday time with my friends than with random other people…. On the journey to my chosen activity I feel a mix of nerves and scepticism. Just think: five days and four nights alongside a load of other people who are probably a bit odd – or what if they think I’m odd? Shall I just bail out? I think I’m feeling a bit ill….’

(Seven days later) ‘I’m so glad I stuck at it! What a brilliant week! Not only did I get to do some amazing activities and deepen my interests, but I’ve also made some cool new friends and we’re going to meet up again…. Actually, living together was the best bit – you get to know each other so much better and it makes you think of others a whole lot more.’

While the expedition is rightly seen as a pinnacle of the DofE experience, the residential is often the one that leaves a lasting impression on the participant, perhaps because for the vast majority it entails doing an unfamiliar thing in an unfamiliar place with unfamiliar people. The rewards and satisfaction of having accomplished this is so much greater – in many ways, the whole Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in microcosm.

DofE continues to be popular at Canford, focussed around doing Gold over the Upper Sixth years but offering Bronze to a select band of fourth-formers. There has been an encouraging increase in the proportion of those completing their Gold, with a number meeting up with each other in May at Buckingham Palace to receive their Gold Awards. This year has seen the trial of young leaders, whereby two sixth-formers are selected and trained to help deliver DofE to the younger years – well done Fin and Libby for your game-changing contributions.

For the vast majority it entails doing an unfamiliar thing in an unfamiliar place with unfamiliar people.

Sport

The 2024/25 academic year has been another thrilling chapter for Canford sport, with nearly 1000 fixtures played across sixteen different sports. Our goal is always to provide the pupils with continued opportunities to explore, express and excel in their athletic pursuits, helping them to strive to be the best they can be.

Selecting highlights from such a vibrant year is always a challenge, as participation is the true heart of our programme. It is clear that our pupils appreciate the many benefits of physical activity, especially evident on Thursday and Saturday afternoons, when they compete with other schools in a spirit of friendly rivalry. An impressive 94% of our pupils represented the school in at least one fixture, with 83% playing in five or more fixtures, a 9% increase from the previous year. We are continually looking to create even more opportunities for everyone.

The year was also filled with unforgettable moments, such as the hockey tour to Spain and the Real tennis trip to France. On the field of play, our teams consistently competed at the highest level, proving themselves against the nation’s top athletes. Our U18 girls’ cricket team reached the quarter-finals of the National Cup, and our U14 girls’ tennis team achieved similar success during the summer months. Our rowers brought home gold from the Head of the River races, while our U15 boys’ rugby team made it to the last 16 of the National Cup and placed third at the National Schools Festival in Ipswich.

Our girls’ rugby 7s team impressed by making it to day two of the National Schools 7s on their debut and our boys’ football 1st XI clinched the Wessex Independent Schools League title for the second consecutive year. Both hockey and netball teams advanced to the final stages of their national competitions, including finals days at Loughborough University for the U15 girls netballers.

Individually, we saw remarkable achievements, such as Freya C’s selection to the GB Rowing U19 girls’ VIII, which won gold at the World Championships. Archie Jones again represented the Welsh junior national squad, while fourth-former Harry R took silver in the 400m hurdles at the National Schools Athletics Championships and later competed for England at the home internationals. Many of our pupils are also on performance pathways alongside their studies at Canford, demonstrating a perfect balance between sport and academics.

However, this year also saw us bid farewell to some beloved staff members who have given so much to Canford. Ian Dryden, our long-serving Director of Rowing, left at the end of the year, having overseen some of our most successful rowing moments, including our boys’ VIII’s strong performance at Henley and Freya’s

GB selection. Ian’s passion for both high standards and introducing the sport to newcomers will be greatly missed. Recruitment to fill his role is under way.

Emma Bennett, our head of tennis, also leaves on a high note following the national success of our junior girls’ team and her eleven years of inspiring tennis players. As participation in tennis has never been higher, she hands over to Brett Townsend, the current Dorset coach of the year, who will continue her excellent work.

Wellbeing remained a key theme of our sports programme this year. It was inspiring to see the pupils embrace our second annual wellbeing concert, and we continued to expand our athletic development programme alongside our physiotherapy services. We also introduced new initiatives to reduce injuries, including educational sessions on sports bras and pelvic floor health, as well as the ‘Just Ask a Question’ mental health programme.

In terms of alumni success, we have seen continued progress from our former pupils. Martha Taylor has been making waves with England and GB women’s hockey. In cricket, Hampshire’s men’s 1st XI regularly features three OCs: Tom Prest, Felix Organ and Eddie Jack. Eddie also made his debut for England Lions against India A, taking the wickets of players who would go on to feature prominently in the England summer Test series. In rugby, Will Butt and Arthur Cordwell have been instrumental in Bath Rugby’s victories in the Premiership, European Challenge and LV Cups. Archie Van Der Flier continues to impress with Leicester Tigers, and Luke Mehson represented the GB 7s team this year. India Still represented Wales U23 in netball as well as being part of the Cardiff Dragons NextGen squad. Athlete and discus thrower Rhys Allen has excelled in his third year at Maryland University, maintaining his rank as the second-best U23 and sixth overall in the UK. Charlotte Brook has also shone in golf at Lynn University in Florida, earning All-American honours and moving on to Division 1 Baylor for the season ahead. It has also been fantastic to have so many OCs return to the school for hockey, football and cricket fixtures throughout the year.

With new staff and fresh initiatives in place, Canford sport is on a continuous upward trajectory, and we are excited for the year ahead.

Tony Diprose

RUGBY

The 2024/25 season was one of challenge, growth and memorable milestones for the Canford rugby programme. While results did not always fall the school’s way, the year showcased the resilience, skill and spirit of Canford rugby in both XVs and 7s, which culminated in a historic debut for the girls’ 1st 7.

For the 1st XV it was a tough campaign, with just a single victory recorded, a hard-fought win over Clayesmore in the National Cup. Yet beneath the scorelines, there were numerous performances that highlighted the side’s character and ability. Captain Jasper Bowley led by example throughout, his work rate and determination setting the standard. In the midfield, he formed a formidable partnership with Ralph B, the duo combining to provide both attacking spark and defensive steel. Ralph’s contributions were such that he will inherit the captaincy next season. The forwards battled every week against physically imposing packs, with Jack B, Jack J and Charlie P at the heart of the effort, showing tremendous grit and heart. Among the younger talents, Felix L grew impressively as the season progressed, learning quickly and establishing himself as one to watch for the future. At the season’s awards, Jasper was deservedly named Player of the Year, Ben P collected Coaches’ Player of the Year, Sam M was recognised as Clubman of the Year, and Ralph capped his fine season as Top Try Scorer.

The U15s built on their excellent Shell year with an outstanding Fourth Form season. Their highlight came at the inaugural St Joseph’s Festival, where the A team finished third, competing against leading rugby schools. Led superbly by Hector W, Oscar B, Will H, Max H and Joshua S, the squad impressed with their maturity and quality. Meanwhile, Alex J and Gabe M enjoyed breakthrough seasons, making huge strides in their development. Although their National Cup run ended in the last 16 against a talented Lord Wandsworth side, they had already proven their quality. The B

team also enjoyed a superb campaign, registering seven wins, their only defeat a narrow one to Seaford.

For the U16s, it was a season of steady growth as the group prepared for the transition to senior rugby. Promising performances throughout showed that the future pipeline into the 1st XV remains strong. The Shells, meanwhile, endured a challenging introduction to Canford rugby but impressed with their resilience and determination. Their willingness to learn suggests brighter days lie ahead.

The 7s season was where Canford truly lit up. At Rosslyn Park, the seniors began the week in style, brushing aside Bedford Modern and Bishop’s Stortford, but heartbreak followed in the decisive pool match, a narrow defeat to Duke of York Military School denying them progression to day two. The Shells produced memorable victories over Malvern and Mount Kelly, while the U16s

played some dazzling attacking rugby, scoring over 120 points in their pool games before falling to Sedbergh in a courageous contest.

The standout moment of the year came with the historic Rosslyn Park debut of the girls’ 1st 7. Rising to the challenge, they secured a place in the Plate competition on day two. Grace C-W captained with composure, Layla S etched her name into Canford history with the first-ever girls’ hat-trick, and Megan M, Sophia S, Charlotte P and Katie C all shone in a campaign that will inspire the next generation of female rugby players at Canford.

Although the season’s results were mixed, the signs are clear: Canford rugby is building a bright future. The foundations are strong, and the coming years look set to deliver success across every level.

Tomas Roberts

HOCKEY

What another amazing hockey season at Canford! The Canford girls’ teams set the tone for the year by showing determination, courage, commitment and the belief to take on any opposition that came their way. The 1st XI was a team that grew with each game, led by example and showcasing their experience, while still allowing the youngsters to explore and excel at every opportunity. They played with passion and skill, reaching the semi-finals of the National U18 Tier 2 Cup for the second year running. Their impressive performance throughout the season was a testament to the hard work invested during training sessions and a collective determination to push their boundaries.

This year saw a change: instead of the five senior teams, we moved to three senior sides and had a U16 age group as well. Against a tough and challenging fixture list, the other two senior teams produced some good hockey with a never-give-up attitude.

The U16s lost one or two players to the 1st XI but still produced some excellent hockey and went from strength to strength. The A team had

a great run, making it to the quarterfinal of the National U16 Tier 2 Cup competition.

The U15 and U14 year groups did not disappoint and all involved were excited and keen to develop their core skills and tactics, taking each week in their stride and showcasing their potential at every opportunity. The future of girls’ hockey at Canford is looking good.

The boys’ hockey season was another exceptional one with 145 boys proudly donning the Canford royal blue in matches across all levels.

NETBALL

The 2024-25 season has been one of great pride and achievement. With a record number of pupils representing the school, 15 teams competing and an impressive 168 fixtures played across the year, the programme has gone from strength to strength. From unbeaten runs to national finals, through individual honours to the excitement of house competitions, there has been much to celebrate.

A particular highlight came from the 2nd VII, who completed an outstanding unbeaten season. Their consistency, teamwork and determination across the year reflected the strength in depth within the squad and their ability to rise to every challenge placed in front of them.

The U15s also enjoyed a remarkable campaign, reaching the final of the Sisters in Sport national competition at Loughborough University. After a series of superb performances to make it to this stage, the final proved to be a thrilling contest. Despite their best efforts, the girls were narrowly edged out by just two goals. To finish as national runnersup is a tremendous achievement and one which speaks volumes for their talent and commitment.

There was also much to celebrate on an individual level. Congratulations go to Sinachi O and Kitty L, who secured places in the U15 Dorset County Academy. Dorset is a highly competitive county for netball and gaining recognition at this level is a significant milestone for both girls,

It started at the top, the 1st XI being led by Leo Vorobyev, a pupil who truly had Canford at heart with his tireless efforts on and off the field, his trickery when taking on any opponent and his willingness to allow others opportunities. With some new faces in the mix, the group rallied together and made the most of every situation.

The pre-season trip to Barcelona was an opportunity for many to express themselves and to find their feet at the highest schoolboy level. Their efforts were rewarded, as many lessons were

as well as a source of inspiration for younger players within the school.

The season concluded with the annual House Netball competition, a much-anticipated fixture in the school calendar. This year’s final between de Lacy and Marriotts was tightly contested, with de Lacy emerging as champions. The event once again demonstrated the enthusiasm for netball across the school and the pride with which pupils represent their houses.

Our awards evening gave us the opportunity to celebrate individual contributions. Players’ Player was awarded to the dynamic defender Layla Stannah, while Coaches’ Player was presented to the talented Sophia Smith, whose growth and commitment across the years has been inspiring. The most improved award was earned by

learnt throughout the year. They played against some tough opponents and were tested week in and week out, but through dedication and hard work, the team spirit shone through. Our run in the National U18 Tier 2 Cup ended at the last sixteen, but the boys were keen to finish strong and ended with three good wins by making every single session on the turf count, whether in training or matches. The connection between the Fifth and Sixth Form boys led to some fantastic hockey with some notable results.

The U16 team found the going tough; it was a case of ‘if we had just taken our chances we could have gone a long way’. But the spirits were never down for too long as they kept on giving it their all. The U15 and U14 teams produced some scintillating hockey of their own as well.

The unwavering efforts of the coaching staff were pivotal, imparting not only technical skills but also invaluable life lessons that will resonate with the players for years to come. The growth of the players stands as a testament to the

influence of their coaches. The support from parents played a crucial role as well. Their encouragement and presence at matches fostered a sense of unity and community within the hockey club, providing the players with the confidence to excel.

Both the girls’ and boys’ 1st XIs were great year groups with which to start my chapter as Head of Hockey at Canford.

Greg Davis

the sharp-shooting Anna L, whose progress has been notable throughout the year. The captain’s recognition award was given to the iconic Izzy Jeffries, whose influence and leadership have left a lasting mark on the squad.

We also take this moment to acknowledge all our departing players. Their dedication and contribution to Canford netball over the years has been invaluable, and they leave behind a legacy of hard work, passion and commitment. We hope that they continue to enjoy the sport long into the future.

Finally, none of these successes would have been possible without the dedication of staff and coaches, whose energy and commitment ensure that Canford netball continues to flourish. Their guidance, encouragement and passion have played a vital role in making this season so enjoyable and rewarding for all involved.

In summary, this season has been one of progress, pride and celebration across all teams. With growing numbers of players, competitive performances at every level and individuals gaining recognition beyond school, the future of Canford netball looks very bright indeed.

Ellie Gibbons

CRICKET

It was a tough season for a predominantly young boys’ 1st XI, but lots was learnt in both formats. It was a little unbalanced in terms of being bowler-heavy, but George Guirdham captained admirably, leading by example with both bat and ball. Our fifth-formers gained valuable experience, and this bodes well for the coming seasons ahead. Seb R was the pick of the batters, averaging 35; his 101* not out against Ryde in the National Cup was a memorable innings, particularly as most of it was on one leg due to injury. Raffi O took 19 wickets at an average of 11. His 6 for 32 against the MCC in cricket week was thoroughly deserved.

Poppy W, captain of the girls’ 1st XI, became the first ever female cricketer at Canford to reach three figures – and proved it was no fluke by doing it twice. Her name will now take its rightful place on the honours board in the pavilion, an achievement that will inspire future generations of Canford cricketers. She led a very young side and the future of girls’ cricket at Canford is looking set for the foreseeable future. A good run in the National Cup finally came to an end in the regional final, losing to a strong Bradfield side. Leading run scorer was Poppy W with 282 runs at an average of 94 and top score of 125. Penny D was the pick of the bowlers with 11 wickets at an average of 11 with best figures of 4 for17.

The U15 girls had a great season, clinching both the indoor and outdoor county cups. A two-run defeat to Bradfield in the National Cup was disappointing and could have gone either way. Tilda M captained the team while also adding valuable runs through the season, her best being a positive 64 against Marlborough. The pace bowling was led excellently by Lexi B, her best spell of the season being 3 for 11 off four overs against St Helen and St Katharine. There is lots of potential in this squad, and with the Shells having gained their first season’s experience, they will be even more prepared for next year.

In the U15 boys, a positive attitude maintained itself all season and this, combined with the ways that the squad fell in behind captain Max H and that everyone bought into prioritising involvement in friendlies, made for a hugely enjoyable season for all. Canford were crowned as county champions and it was only at regional level that they bowed

out of the competition. Leading run scorer was Max H with 222 runs at an average of 27 and a top score of 75. Toby R (11 wickets and an average of 11 with best figures of 3 for 6) was the leading bowler.

A strong season for this year’s U14s bodes well for the future of Canford boys’ cricket. An overall record of played 11, won 9 and lost 2 was a fair reflection on a group who both enjoyed their cricket and played at a high level of ability.

A first-game loss to King’s Taunton and a 100-ball game loss to Sherborne were more than offset by some outstanding performances through the year. Highlights included a winning performance on county finals day, including a dominant victory on our own turf against the Sherborne side to which we had lost previously.

Overall, it was a very successful season for Canford cricket club and for the first time we have been winners in all junior cricket competitions in one year: girls’ U15 indoor county cup; girls’ U15 (outdoor) county cup; boys’ U15 county cup; boys’ U14 county cup.

Matt Keech

ROWING

The rowing season at Canford has been marked by hard work, steady progress and notable achievement across all year groups. From the early stages of winter training through to the competitive regatta season, our athletes have consistently demonstrated commitment, discipline and resilience. The progress of our crews this season is a credit not only to the rowers themselves but also to the dedication of the coaching staff and the wider support of the school community.

At the Schools Head of the River Race from Mortlake to Putney, the boys’ first quad finished 18th from 35 quad sculls. The girls’ first quad finished similarly, 19th from 40 crews and within a few seconds of some strong scullingfocused programmes. The J16 boys’ VIII finished ninth in their category. Last but certainly not least was our entry into the mixed VIIIs, a strong crew with a mixture of experienced rowers and some of our most promising beginners. A phenomenal row saw them win the mixed VIIIs category and pick up Canford’s first SHoRR headship for eleven years.

We took a combination of our SHoRR rowers and our newer J14s and J15s to the Scullery’s Junior Sculling Regatta. Arguably the results of the day came from our Shells, most of whom had never been in a boat before January. The J14 girls’ coxed quad finished 20th from 44 and the J14 boys’ coxed quad finished an outstanding 9th out of 42 crews.

The National Schools Regatta headed to the Midlands this year to the inconsistent waters of Holme Pierrepont. Canford entered crews from J15 to J18, with the last falling foul to cancellation on the Sunday. The J15 coxed IV put in a strong time trial performance to finish 13th, placing them in the C final and narrowly missing out on the B final. The boys gave it their all in the final, finishing 6th. The J16 VIII raced on the Saturday and were faced with ever-worsening conditions, but held their own to finish 9th overall.

House Regatta brought its usual fun, village fête feel alongside some fiercely competitive racing. Lancaster defended their title, taking the overall house winners’ trophy home. We were then treated to a wonderful Boat Club dinner, kindly organised by Rachael and Rowena from Development. Thanks to former Olympian Matt Aldridge, who gave an inspiring talk to our rowers and parents.

Canford sent two crews to Henley Women’s Regatta this year. The double scull were met with a stacked entries list, with many clubs choosing to enter the strongest athletes in smaller boats. The girls put in a row that most years would have meant that they qualified easily, but this year saw them fall just short as second-fastest non-qualifiers. The coxed IV put in a great effort in a mixed crew featuring J15s to J18s, showing lots of potential for the coming years.

Henley Royal Regatta saw Canford send two crews to qualifiers, including the first girls’ crew for thirteen years. This Diamond Jubilee coxed IV put in a good row in a brutal head wind but unfortunately missed out on qualification. The 1st VIII produced a solid row in qualification to make it into the main draw for the Princess Elizabeth. A gutsy row against Boulogne 92 in the first round saw them go from a length down at Fawley to a nail-biting one-length win at the finish. The crew faced Eton on the Wednesday, which put an end to their Henley campaign, despite fighting to the line.

Huge congratulations must go to Archie Jones, who left Canford this year and represented Wales for the second year running at the Home International Regatta. And we were hugely proud to see Freya C (now Upper Sixth) selected to represent Great Britain in the women’s U19 coxed VIII at the Junior World Championships. A young crew was selected and did not disappoint, producing a brilliant race and winning gold. Freya is the first Junior World Champion to come out of Canford’s boat club.

Charlotte Toogood

ATHLETICS

The 2025 athletics season was one of progress, perseverance and standout individual achievements for Canford’s athletes. Competing across a packed calendar of meets and championships, the school’s teams consistently demonstrated spirit, talent and determination.

The season began with a competitive fixture against Dauntsey’s, where Canford placed fifth overall. Despite strong opposition from nine other schools, several athletes delivered impressive performances. In the inter boys category, Harry W (third in 100m), Seth P (third in 400m), and Harry R (first in 100m hurdles) stood out. The inter girls saw Shell pupil Jemima T win the 800m, alongside wins from Elsa K (high jump) and Millie B (long jump). In the senior girls, Megan M won the triple jump and took second in high jump, while Martha F placed fourth in long jump.

At the Lutra Shield in Yeovil, the senior teams shone brightly, with both boys and girls finishing third overall. Elsa K broke the inter girls high jump record (1.60m), Harry R set a new school 400m record (52.82s), and both the girls’ 4x100m and 4x400m relay teams smashed school records.

Canford hosted another major meet, welcoming teams from Sherborne, Winchester and Dauntsey’s. The junior boys and girls placed second and third respectively, while the senior girls finished a strong second. Megan M broke the triple jump meet record (11.50m) and the inter boys’ relay team also set a new record.

In the Winchester College meet, the inter girls were outstanding, taking first place. The senior girls followed closely with second. Isaac A broke the school 100m record, while Harry R reset the 100m hurdles mark and helped the 4x100m relay team break a further record.

The Track and Field Cup at King’s Park saw the Year 9 and 10 girls finish third overall. Jemima T (800m and javelin), Annabel T (1500m) and Alexandra S (100m) were key contributors. Harry R’s dominant 300m run earned 28 points, one of the day’s highest scores. In district trials hosted at

Canford, numerous athletes qualified for the county meet, including Seth P (200m, long/triple jump) and Jemima T (800m, javelin). Harry R, Isaac A, and others also earned selections. The season culminated in national honours. Harry R had a phenomenal summer, winning silver in the National Schools 400m hurdles, earning England selection and claiming bronze at the England Athletics Championships, a fantastic achievement.

From school records to national podiums, the 2025 athletics season was one to remember. Canford athletes displayed commitment, resilience and pride, laying a strong foundation for future success.

Natasha Wilson

TENNIS

With over 250 pupils picking tennis this year, we accomplished a new high of over 75% of those pupils playing competitively for the school, which is amazing given the amount of space we have. The senior girls 1st VI have enjoyed a rare unbeaten season: a direct result of the team’s hard work, determination and relentless focus throughout the year. In training, we emphasised constructing points more strategically and making smarter shot selections – an area where the entire team has shown impressive growth. Additionally, our serving has become more consistent across the board, helping us to gain early advantages in matches and to maintain momentum. This collective improvement in both mental and technical aspects of the game truly set the foundation for our success.

With a tougher fixture list this season, the boys faced increased challenges and rose to the occasion with determination and resilience. Notable hard-fought wins over Bryanston and Dauntsey’s – fixtures that have grown increasingly competitive over the years – highlit the team’s grit and progress. Training focussed heavily on set plays and minimising unforced errors, paying close attention to the fine margins that often decide matches. This attention to detail and consistent effort in practice translated into some fantastic results on court, reflecting the boys’ commitment to improvement and teamwork.

Once again, we retained the 100% record against Bryanston for the mixed event. I hope that next summer the event will grow again and another school will come on board. It is such a fabulous afternoon of tennis!

This year we entered a few more competitions, some new and some that we have not entered for a few years. However, with great strength in the juniors, the time is now. U15A girls and U15A boys both finished second in their respective LTA division 1 leagues: a fantastic achievement as we retain our positions in division 1. U14A boys reached the third round of the Schools Sports magazine cup, before losing out on the flip of a coin, due to bad weather. The U14A gir ls, however, made it all the way to the quarter-final before losing to a fantastic Oxford High team, a brilliant achievement by all

those involved. Across these competitions I have been very impressed with the dedication of the juniors, playing a lot of tennis to double up regular fixtures alongside the cup runs. I would like to thank coaches, staff and pupils in the Canford tennis community over the past eleven years. It has been a fun and successful journey. I wish all the best to Brett as he takes over the reins from September.

Emma Bennett

am always impressed by the way our badminton players just get on with playing badminton and don’t let any excuses prevent them from playing. Our training sessions finish at 3.30 and every time, the players continue arranging their own games after the session.

We have a limited number of regular fixtures, and I hope that our joining the SOCS Wessex league should open up more opportunities for a wider variety of opposition while maintaining our historic fixtures with Sherborne girls’ and

boys’ schools. I also hope we will be able to enter the National Schools Championship with a small team of fifth-formers next year.

We had our usual fixtures against the schools in Sherborne. Whilst the fixtures were very close, the overall outcome was that we just lost to the boys’ school and just won against the girls’ school.

Dick Carpenter

FOOTBALL

Football at Canford continues to grow in the Sixth Form. This year 80 fixtures took place with over 100 pupils representing Canford in a competitive fixture, across six different teams.

The year started with the firstever pre-season. The Oaks travelled up to Wolverhampton, staying at Lilleshall National Sports Centre for the weekend before the school year started. A game against local opposition, winning 5-3, plenty of training, touring Molineux and watching Walsall beat Cheltenham 2-1 made for a great trip with plenty of team bonding: the best way to start the year for players and staff.

The Oaks looked to retain their title in the Wessex Independent Schools League and to go far in both the Independent Schools Football Association shield and the county cup for the second year running. The Acorns league continued after a hugely successful first year, giving the 2nd XI a challenging fixture programme against

some strong 1st XIs. The Gents’ fixture list grew once again, playing eleven matches, winning five and losing six. Such was the level of participation this year that the boys needed a 4th XI, the Mountjoy XI, although it was named by the boys involved as the ‘Super Gents’. Super they were, as they managed to win four of their six fixtures.

Girls’ football took another big step at Canford as it became a sports option for girls in the Sixth Form. Led superbly by new coach Joe Donworth and co-captains Julie Arthur-Krebs and Katie Clark, two sides played eighteen matches, with a 61% winning percentage through the season. Wins against Highcliffe (7-0) and Kings Bruton (5-0) were amongst the highlights, leading to their semifinal in the county cup, where they were knocked out by a strong QE Wimborne side.

The Oaks managed to retain their WISL title, winning all ten of their matches. Wins against Sherborne (4-1) and Millfield (2-0) were particular

highlights. The boys came unstuck in the first game of the ISFA shield, coming up against Milton Abbey and losing 3-2 with the last kick of the game. The boys did beat Thomas Hardye 5-2 in the second round of the county cup before another tight loss in the quarter-final against Twynham.

Players’ Player of the Year for the boys was captain Woody Woods, who led the Oaks and the programme superbly. On the girls’ side, Myra Malinga took the award, a technically incredible footballer who was a rock at the back. Player of the Year for the girls was Daisy Lewis, a first-time footballer this year who was key to the defensive stability to the team. For the boys, Harry Serjeant, who managed to score over 50 first-team goals in his two years as an Oak, received this award.

James Crickmore

REAL TENNIS & SQUASH

We began on a bittersweet note as we said farewell to our assistant professional, Nat Cherry, who has taken up an exciting new role at Sydney Real Tennis. Nat made a significant impact during his time at Canford, both at the club and within the school, and we look forward to following his progress in the years ahead.

Numbers remain strong across all age groups, with more than 40 pupils regularly taking part in both sports during the Christmas and Easter Terms. Encouragingly, as we move further beyond the disruption of the Covid years, both sports are showing increasing strength and depth across all age groups, a positive sign for the terms ahead. The inclusion of pupils from the Fourth Form is now bearing fruit, adding real strength and depth to our squads.

In September, a remarkable effort was made by Clive Jeffery, Jack Shannon, Nicola Hunter and Oliver Hunter, who undertook a 24-hour Real Tennis Challenge. At least one team member was on court, either playing or marking, throughout the event, competing against pupils, teachers and members. Their dedication raised over £3,000 for Motor Neurone Disease research, a truly inspirational achievement.

Congratulations to Court and Beaufort, who claimed both the junior and senior titles for boys and girls. Beaufort continued their dominance, securing titles for a fourth consecutive year, while Court regained the boys’ title from School House.

Squash saw eleven fixtures this year, renewing local rivalries with Clayesmore, Bryanston and Sherborne.

In Real tennis, we enjoyed competitive matches against Radley, Wellington and Oratory, along with another home-

GOLF C

anford had a year of really mixed fortunes. We competed in the ISGA matchplay competition and the Swift strokeplay competition, and had numerous friendly matches across the year.

We comfortably won the first round of the ISGA matchplay at Hockley with great wins from Suzy C and Yakov V against a strong Seaford team. However, in the second round against Winchester, we were tied at one apiece after another fantastic win for Suzy. Yakov was one up with two to play but his opponent finished birdie, eagle to take the win and the match, knocking us out of the competition.

We had three competitors (Yakov V, Suzy C and Guy G) play in the Swifts strokeplay competitions at the Berkshire and Frilford Heath. Yakov achieved the best result at Frilford with a top twelve finish.

We had some hard-fought matches against local schools at Canford, all played in a fantastic spirit, giving pupils a taste of competitive golf. We also competed against Broadstone GC junior section in two great home and away fixtures.

We also hit a great milestone of 45 pupils choosing golf as their sport option in the Summer Term!

Joe Davis

and-away fixture against our nearest club, the Hyde in Bridport.

We were proud to host the U15 National Schools doubles and U16 singles for the first time. Canford also had three pairs at the U18s event at Queen’s, with Justin White and Jack Gao reaching the B grade final. It was also great to see Florrie B compete in the U15 girls’ singles at Wellington. While no silverware was won this year, the performances demonstrated considerable promise for the future.

Finally, a special mention must go to Justin White, who completed his final year at Canford. Justin has been a dedicated and influential figure, representing Canford across multiple age groups and captaining both the Real tennis and squash teams. His commitment and leadership were recognised with the award of full school colours, a fitting tribute to his significant contribution.

James Ryan

The 2024/25 season started at a great pace with Canford hosting a PEDSSA event for around 450 runners from 25 local schools ranging from year 5 up to year 13. This set the scene for an exciting and enjoyable two terms of running, with Canfordians making full use of our Dorset location, including the big fan favourite Creech to Corfe Purbeck Stomp, trips to Wareham Forest, hills and twisty trails on Canford Heath, the beaches of Studland and Sandbanks, and the Castleman Trailway. Plus of course the whole school getting involved in the annual House CrossCountry in the final week of the Christmas Term.

In competition running we have had some superb results. At the Dorset county championships, sixth-formers Abi Crossley and Jemima C led by example with a stellar 9th and 10th respectively in the senior girls, automatically qualifying for the regionals. Abi and Jemima went on to

BASKETBALL

The 2024/25 season was another enjoyable year for Canford basketball, with a dedicated and hard-working squad eager to improve their game. Although it hasn’t always been easy to secure fixtures for ‘The Towers’, every opportunity to take to the court has been a chance to showcase their skills, and it’s always exciting to see them in action.

The season kicked off before Christmas with two competitive matches against Winchester (won 51-40) and Milton Abbey (won 53-17). These fixtures highlighted areas for improvement but also showcased the potential within the team, combining experienced players with some exciting new talent.

After the break, the winning streak continued with solid performances, including a 60-48 victory away at Winchester, a 65-56 win at home to Sherborne, and a dominant 67-30 win away at Bournemouth Collegiate.

The team had a tough loss last year away at Sherborne, but they were determined to avoid repeating that mistake and to go undefeated this season. Despite some late changes to the line-up, a tremendous collective effort saw the boys close the season with a perfect record, winning all six fixtures (won 46-39).

Special thanks must go to captain Adomas B for his outstanding leadership over the years. His contribution to the

represent Dorset at the south-west championships, where the team came an impressive 2nd overall.

At our regular local races, our runners, including a number representing Canford for the first time, have done us proud at meets such as Downside, Sherborne, Bryanston and Milton Abbey.

On many weeks, our runners had to contend with sideways rain, strong winds and very wet underfoot conditions, and I was constantly impressed by the determination, courage and cheerfulness with which they approached every session, always seeing the positives and pushing their limits. There have been huge improvements for every member of the team and they have been a pleasure to run with this year.

Jamie Ings

team was invaluable and he was rightfully awarded colours for his dedication to Canford basketball. As the team looks to the future, new leaders must now rise to continue the group’s success.

A big thank you to coach Luca Dronyk as well, whose tireless commitment and passion for helping the team has been instrumental throughout the year. With new opponents hopefully joining our fixture list next season, we’re excited for what’s ahead.

2025 LEAVERS’ BALL