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Greyhound

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What is a Carthusian?

Iona Hutchinson, Director of Admissions

A Legacy of School Organists Raising the Curtain

Q&A with Dean Chisnall, Director of Performing Arts

OC News & Club Updates Issue

The Greyhound

Welcome to the 2025 edition of The Greyhound, the magazine for the Charterhouse community. As always, we hope you enjoy the magazine and welcome any feedback or suggestions you may have for future editions. schoolnews@charterhouse.org.uk

A Night of Musical Brilliance at Cadogan Hall (page 31)

04 What is a Carthusian?

Contents

A Legacy of School Organists

14 Raising the Curtain

OC News

Championing Food Innovation and Sustainability

Charterhouse Rocks

Rising Stars: Theo Freeland

FutureU

Obituary Notices

Maximising Athletic Potential

Rising Stars: Margarita Yankovska

Rising Stars: Dora Liu

Nurturing Intellectual Growth

36 Behind the Whistle

A Life Remembered: Stephan Harker

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What is a Carthusian? By Iona Hutchinson Director of Admissions

I am often asked: what makes the perfect Carthusian? The answer is not found in a rigid checklist of achievements but in the energy, enthusiasm and curiosity that our pupils bring with them. Each year we recruit around 240 new pupils throughout the Under School and Specialists (Sixth Form). In doing so, we look for individuals who can combine their academic strengths and ambition with a willingness to immerse themselves in the breadth of opportunity which Charterhouse offers. Our admissions process isn’t about finding one type of pupil; it’s about discovering all types of individuals: those with the enthusiasm, passion, drive to explore, willingness to challenge themselves and commitment to contributing to our vibrant community in their own unique way.

“ Generations of Carthusians have benefited and enjoyed our holistic approach to education, which balances academic ambition with character development.”

From the moment a prospective pupil walks through our doors, we are keen to understand who they are and who they can become. At Charterhouse, each child is recognised as an individual with unique talents, dreams and potential. Our role is not to shape them into something predefined but to support them in discovering their strengths and pursuing their passions. It’s this nurturing of individuality and the creation of an environment where talents can truly flourish that is what makes Charterhouse so special.

outstanding in every area, but we believe in creating a try everything attitude across the extraordinary breadth of opportunity that Charterhouse offers. It is in this way that all pupils discover their passions, excel in their strengths and develop the resilience to tackle areas they find more challenging.

We welcome pupils who are enthusiastic, passionate and ready to make the most of the breadth of opportunities we offer. At 13+, all the Fourths are new together, ready to explore, to challenge themselves and to grow – whether academically, artistically, athletically or socially. We don’t expect every child to be

At 16+, we look for those who have demonstrated real academic ambition and the ability to take ownership of their learning, as the Sixth Form years fly by in a whirlwind of challenge and discovery. With 85 pupils joining this September, it’s an exciting time for both our new arrivals and current Fifths. Our vibrant induction programme provides

Our Fourths programme ensures that our pupils are truly attempting everything, there is no choice. It’s the ‘no choice’ aspect that I love as children will step outside their comfort zone and have a go.

the perfect launchpad for pupils to dive into clubs and societies, try something new and make the most of everything Charterhouse has to offer. Our House teams will encourage them to go and get stuck in and find things that truly spark their interest. Our pupils are bright, motivated and intellectually curious. We provide an environment where they can push boundaries, whether through our rigorous A Level and IB programmes, our Oxbridge preparation or our specialist support for aspiring medics, engineers and creatives. At every stage, we challenge our pupils to think critically and develop independence in their learning. Teachers encourage deep intellectual engagement, discussion and debate, ensuring that pupils leave us not only with outstanding qualifications but with the ability to think, innovate and lead. 5

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975 pupils equals nine hundred and seventy-five unique educations

3,500+ alumni providing professional networking and career advice

45 nationalities represented across the School

The small-group teaching and individual mentoring that our Specialists experience prepare them for the demands of university and beyond, helping them to develop not just knowledge, but the skills and confidence to apply it in the real world. Belonging to one of our 15 Houses remains central to everyone’s Charterhouse experience. It encourages independence, resilience and lifelong friendships while being part of a supportive and structured environment. Why boarding? I went to boarding school and I loved every minute of it. It’s not just the lifelong friends that you make, which is a key part of it, but the confidence you gain to steer your own path. Modern boarding is a far cry from the old-fashioned stereotypes; our approach provides structure, opportunity and flexibility, allowing pupils to enjoy all the benefits of communal living while still maintaining strong family connections, and it’s great fun! Both full boarders and day pupils experience a rich and immersive School life. Our day pupils often stay until after homebill (supper), joining their boarding friends for clubs and banco (homework). This ensures that every pupil, regardless of their boarding status, feels a deep sense of belonging within the Charterhouse community. Through living and working with their peers, every pupil develops important foundations in collaboration, leadership and self-discipline. For many pupils, this experience extends far beyond their time at School. Our network of Old Carthusians stretches across the globe, offering connections and friendships that last a lifetime. It’s wonderful that Old Carthusians can turn up in almost any country in the world and instantly connect. They can knock on someone’s door and be welcomed, because they’ve shared in this incredible adventure together.

The world of education is evolving, and independent schools face both opportunities and challenges. One of Charterhouse’s greatest strengths is the diversity of our pupil body. We welcome young people from all over the world, from different backgrounds, cultures and perspectives. This internationalism is not just a feature of our School – it is a crucial part of preparing young people for the world beyond Charterhouse. The barrage of challenges currently facing the independent schools sector are well versed, yet for me, the greatest concern is the potential decline of some of the smaller prep schools, many of which are facing acute economic pressure. This is a great loss – not just for the schools themselves but for the sector, as these institutions play a crucial role in developing young learners ready for the next stage of their education.

Despite these challenges, we remain optimistic. Families continue to prioritise high-quality education, recognising the value that schools like Charterhouse offer. The combination of academic excellence, character development and a global outlook ensures that our pupils are well-prepared for an ever-changing world. With a diverse pupil body, a thriving boarding culture and a commitment to innovation, I am confident that Charterhouse is well-placed to meet the challenges of the future. As we look ahead, our focus remains on ensuring that every pupil who joins us feels part of something greater than themselves. A Charterhouse education is a journey – one that begins with an open mind and a willingness to embrace new challenges. We are not just looking for pupils who fit a mould; we are looking for young people who are ready to discover who they are and what they can achieve. That is what makes me feel so proud to be a part of this extraordinary School and its history. 7

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From the Archives

A Legacy of School Organists Organ music has been at the heart of our School life for four hundred years, both in London and Godalming, which is why the appeal to replace the Memorial Chapel organ is of such vital importance. These reflections on the early history of organ music at Charterhouse are largely taken from Robin Wells’ research notes: The position of Organist of the Charterhouse was a very desirable role, and many eminent and influential musicians have held the post, serving on average for over 30 years each! The earliest recorded Charterhouse Organist was Benjamin Cosyn, who was appointed in 1626. The organist’s duties were “to attend divine service every Sunday, holiday and holiday eve, and to bring up the Schollars to musicke.” It is likely that one of Cosyn’s earliest charges was Christopher Gibbons (son of composer Orlando Gibbons), who was nominated for a scholarship in 1627. He later became organist of Westminster Abbey and could be regarded as the first of the School’s many composers. Cosyn was responsible for the installation of the first organ for the sum of £100, but when in 1643 Parliament banned music in worship, the organ was removed and sold. Although Cosyn was relieved

of his duties as organist, the foundation nevertheless generously supported him financially until his death in 1653. Church music was revived following the Restoration, and in 1662 Nicholas Love was appointed as organist; one of his duties was to teach the poor scholars to sing. A new chapel organ was installed by John Hingeston, Keeper and Repairer of His Majesties Organs. Hingeston’s assistant in tuning and repairing instruments was none other than Henry Purcell, and so it is most likely that he introduced Purcell to the Charterhouse. Purcell composed several pieces for the Foundation, including the anthem Blessed is the Man for Founder’s Day in 1687. Love was reprimanded for ‘indecent behaviour’ at the Master’s table, but nevertheless he continued to hold the post for 51 years, and upon his death in 1713 he was succeeded for a further 24 years by his son, Thomas.

Some of the Charterhouse organists were very accomplished composers, the most famous being Johann Christoph Pepusch, who succeeded Thomas Love. Of German origin, Pepusch quit his native land for somewhere more civilised after he had witnessed murder by his King. He was employed by the Duke of Chandos and would certainly have been closely associated with Handel, who may well have visited the Charterhouse. Pepusch was a leading musical figure in his day, and was much sought after as a teacher. He wrote a huge number of works: masques, sonatas, anthems, and is best known for his contribution to the The Beggar’s Opera. Pepusch was one of the founders of the Academy of Ancient Music in 1726, and was its Director from 1735. In 1753, a new organ was installed and John Jones was appointed organist. He also held the post concurrently of

Charterhouse Organists and Directors of Music 1626 Benjamin Cosyn Vacant 1643 – 1661 1662 Nicholas Love 1713 Thomas Love 1737 Johann Christoph Pepusch 1753 John Jones 1796 Richard Stevens 1838 William Horsley 1858 John Hullah

1872 1901 1919 1928 1965 1987 2003 2023

George Robinson Edward Rendall Reginald Thatcher John Wilson Bill Llewellyn Robin Wells Mark Shepherd David McKee

Johann Christoph Pepusch

Old Chapel organ 1888

John Wilson conducting the choir, 1956

W illiam Horsle

Edward Rendall

Richard Stevens 9

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“ Whilst it is sad to say farewell to the mighty instrument that has accompanied Carthusian singers for nearly a century, this is also a wonderful opportunity to enrich Charterhouse’s music with a new Chapel organ.” car toon of Thom as Rowlandson Scholars”, 1808 s Hi & r cto “A Musical Do

Mark Shepherd Timothy Parsons (B10)

Support the Organ Appeal Today The Organ Appeal seeks the support of our entire community to ensure the new organ is installed by the 100th anniversary of Memorial Chapel in 2027. We are very grateful to an Old Carthusian who has generously pledged £500k towards the Organ Appeal for use as a matched fund. All donations towards our Organ Appeal made before 31 July 2025 will be matched like-for-like. This means that for every £1 you donate now, an additional £1 will be released in support of the organ. We warmly thank the generosity of our community for helping us bring this momentous occasion in the history of both Chapel and the School to fruition. Donations can be made online via charterhousefoundation.org.uk or by scanning the QR code

organist at St Paul’s Cathedral and the Middle Temple until his death. He composed many songs and chants, one of which is still sung at St Paul’s to this day. He was praised by Haydn, who wrote of his chant: ‘No music for a long time has affected me so much as this innocent and reverential strain’. Another prolific composer of songs, anthems and keyboard sonatas was Richard Stevens, who succeeded Jones in 1796. He also shared his Charterhouse duties with that of organist of the Temple Church. His chief claim as a composer was writing glees and winning prizes at the Catch Club. Stevens was an eminent musician of his time, and also a serious academic who held the position of Gresham Professor of Music. William Horsley, who followed Stevens as organist in 1838, was also a composer of glees, anthems, chants and songs; he is best known for his tune (named Horsley) to the hymn There Is a Green Hill Far Away. He was a founder member of the Philharmonic Society and a great friend of Mendelssohn, who may well have visited the Charterhouse. During Horsley’s time, the Chapel was remodelled and the organ gallery was moved from the south aisle to its present position, where a new instrument was built in 1842. John Hullah, one of the most important figures in English musical education, held the post of organist from 1858. Hullah was a huge advocate of singing in schools and was appointed to the

Charterhouse specifically to teach singing. In 1846, he established an Annual Concert at the School, at which an important feature was the singing of the Carmen Carthusianum, composed by his predecessor, William Horsley – a custom which continued for many years. In 1872, Hullah was appointed Inspector of Training Schools for the UK, and it was due to him that music gained a place in the school curriculum. The removal of the School to Godalming in 1872 was generally beneficial for music-making. Music Master George Robinson quickly established a choir, a military band, a string band and an orchestra. Saturday evening musical entertainments introduced pupils to a wide range of music, largely performed by staff and pupils, but also by eminent professional musicians of the day. However, the School Chapel was not completed until 1874, and the installation of a new organ was delayed even further by the illness of the organ builder, H. E. Schulze. The organ was finally built to Schulze’s design by a different contractor in 1877, but was not entirely satisfactory and had to be rebuilt in 1888. The old School Chapel was converted into a music school in 1939 by architects Seely & Paget, with a small chapel (Founders’) upstairs at the east end; the Schulze organ was sold, and a little Hammond organ was installed in Founders’ Chapel. The construction of the much larger Memorial Chapel, completed in 1927, required a newer, larger organ, designed and built by Messrs Harrison & Harrison.

The Greyfriar magazine of July 1927 commented that: “The tonal scheme is the outcome of much thought; the Diapasons are dignified, round and full; the reeds and softer Flute stops are conspicuous for delicacy of voicing, pure tone and variety of colour, while the blend and the effect of the full organ with its ample Pedal are entirely successful and satisfying.” The Harrison organ has done sterling work for the last century. A new organ casing, designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, was installed in 1958. However, despite regular care and maintenance, the organ has suffered from persistent problems over very many years. A major, expensive overhaul was required in 1979, with many subsequent repairs, but in 2024 the organ failed completely and was declared beyond repair. Whilst it is sad to say farewell to the mighty instrument that has accompanied Carthusian singers for nearly a century, this is also a wonderful opportunity to enrich Charterhouse’s music with a new Chapel organ. Nicholson & Co have been commissioned to design a new organ that will support the choral and congregational singing that is so intrinsic to the life of the School, and which inspires the teaching and performance of new generations of organists on a reliable instrument with the versatility to tackle a very wide range of repertoire. Together with Nicholson & Co, we are preserving what can be salvaged from the current organ, whilst creating a new organ to serve the entire Charterhouse community. 11

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Rising Stars

A profile of Margarita Yankovska, 1YS, Weekites

Achievement in Engineering Margarita has been awarded a prestigious Arkwright Engineering Scholarship. She successfully advanced through three stages: the application form, an aptitude exam and an online interview. She shared how her fascination with engineering began. Margarita, a dedicated A Level pupil studying Maths, Further Maths, Physics and Design Engineering, has always been passionate about engineering. She is deeply involved in co-curricular activities, from restoring an old Land Rover with the Automotive Society, to presenting with the Physics Society. Recently, she enjoyed volunteering at a local Robotics competition, engaging with younger pupils and finding the experience inspiring. Margarita first heard about the Arkwright Scholarship from Andrew Thomson, Head of Design Engineering, and she jumped at the opportunity to apply. For the scholarship, she presented her GCSE coursework project and participated in a two-hour problem-solving and sketching exam: “For the first part, we had to sketch three different creative solutions,” she recalls. “The second part required us to develop one detailed solution, annotating its design, function and assembly. You have two hours to invent everything on the spot.”

“ Margarita is so intelligent and kind, and has all the qualities that make up an aspiring Design Engineer. We need more Margarita’s in the world and her being awarded this prestigious Engineering Scholarship is such an honour for everyone. I am so proud and her involvement in the department is helping to re-balance the genders.” Andrew Thomson Head of Design Engineering

Despite the pressure, Margarita enjoyed the challenge: “I really enjoyed that paper. It was fun because once an idea clicks in my head, everything just flows, and I feel confident doing it.” After the exam, Margarita was invited to a 30-minute interview on Zoom with an aeronautical engineer and an Arkwright representative. They asked her about her future aspirations, what inspires her and what she loves about engineering. Margarita was delighted to be notified in June that she had earned the scholarship. Margarita’s fascination with engineering began by watching online creators and design engineers on YouTube, where she would often see them building robots or performing cool science experiments. However, her biggest inspiration comes from her uncle, an industrial designer who creates stunning furniture pieces from old plane parts. “He makes coffee tables from jet engines and bars from turbine engines,” Margarita shares. “His creativity and skill really drew me in.” Coincidentally, this term in her design engineering course, Margarita is working on a project that involves upcycling plane parts. “We’re currently working on a course about recycling, upcycling and entrepreneurship,” she explains. “It is incredible to link my uncle’s work to what I am doing right now. I am using parts from a helicopter and a plane’s starter motor to create a steampunk terrarium with a light fixture inside.” Growing up, Margarita watched her uncle sketch effortlessly in his notebook: “I thought his designs were

so different and creative. It inspired me to want to design things that could make a real difference.” Margarita is considering university next, keeping an open mind about the possibilities ahead: “Arkwright has opened doors for me and given me opportunities I would not have had otherwise. I am particularly interested in design engineering or industrial design engineering because I love the technical aspects of engineering, the maths and physics, and how everything fits together, especially in mechanical engineering.” She is excited by the thought of being a design engineer, as they are the first to bring concepts to life, designing everything from cars to furniture. “I want to create something amazing, something that could solve real-world problems, even if it’s just for one person.” Margarita is also enthusiastic about representing women in engineering: “If I succeed, I want to show that women can reach the top in engineering. I hope to inspire younger girls in similar situations, showing them that they too can achieve their dreams if they are determined enough. It is about building up women in STEM and increasing representation. The more diversity we have, the better our ideas and teamwork will be, and that will help us create better solutions.” As an international pupil at Charterhouse, Margarita’s Arkwright Scholarship is virtual, meaning most of her opportunities come from online platforms. “Through the Arkwright website, I have access to chat rooms where I can connect with

other engineers and mentors. They offer guidance on projects, university applications and finding courses that suit my interests. There are also resources like links to open days, online apprenticeships and articles about women in engineering.” Arkwright also hosts monthly webinars: “I attended the introductory webinar, where they explained what would happen throughout the programme. The speakers are experienced engineers, sharing their career stories and advice. I also attended a networking webinar last month. We learned how to network and build meaningful connections. At first, I was nervous, but by the end of the two-hour session, it felt like it had flown by. I had made new connections, and my confidence grew. It was such a valuable experience.” Margarita acknowledges that while it can be intimidating at first, being the only girl or one of very few in a class or society, the more you immerse yourself, the more at ease you become: “I’m driven to show that I earned my scholarship and good grades through the work I put in, not because anyone feels sorry for me as a girl. I want to show that girls can excel in engineering and STEM.” Margarita’s story is one of passion and determination. Her drive to inspire other young women in STEM will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact. As she continues to develop her design engineering skills, we will watch her journey with interest.

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Raising the Curtain Dean Chisnall, Director of Performing Arts, shares his bold vision and infectious passion in this Q&A. What makes our Performing Arts department stand out? I always say this when we close a production – every good school has a good performing arts department, but I genuinely believe we’ve moved past that now. We are proud of what we do here. It used to feel a bit like an apology, but not anymore. I am on a mission to make this the best place for performing arts, especially in the private sector. Our standards are sky-high, and the opportunities and ambitions are limitless, but there is a clear vision, and the journey is well underway. The numbers are through the roof, which gives me a brilliant problem to solve. I’m already working on ways to get more pupils involved so fewer feel left out. It is incredible to think that I could name five pupils right now with dreams – and the potential – for careers in the performing arts. That is huge for a School like ours. You can have a 1,000-seater theatre gifted by someone wealthy, but that does not mean your performing arts department is strong. It is about the people, the quality and the work. We are clever with how we use our space, our lighting and our creativity, and while the new building is coming on wonderfully – and there is a phased plan for the main auditorium – I would always choose quality over material things. In October, we had West End star Laura Harrison – standby for Elphaba in Wicked – come in for two brilliant masterclasses. You can only get these people if you know these people. Next year, I want to bring in two professionals per term – performers, yes, but also directors, musical directors and stage managers. I have worked in this world for 20 years, and we are bringing that world to our pupils. It is invaluable, and honestly, I don’t think many schools can offer the same.

West End star Laura Harrison – standby for Elphaba in Wicked

Backstage at The Cherry Orchard

What developments are in the pipeline? It’s ambitious! Seven productions, including a brand-new standalone dance show and an exclusive scholars’ showcase. Plus, two musicals – one for seniors and one for juniors – so we can include even more pupils. Over 120 came forward for the last musical – more than 10% of the School – which tells you everything. It’s a challenge, but an exciting one. We are also introducing breakdancing through a hip-hop company and hoping to start entering dance competitions in the next few years. The scholars’ showcase will kick things off, and the junior musical and dance show could fall in the summer term, avoiding any clash with exams. Everyone will have their moment – that is the goal.

Beyond performing, what life skills do pupils gain from participating in performing arts? Performing arts is the best way to find yourself. The courage, the community, the kindness – it is all there. The goal is helping pupils become well-rounded, empathetic, self-aware young adults. Teamwork is everything. You rely on your cast, your crew, your sound tech. You learn to trust, to lead, to collaborate. Those are priceless life skills.

What about collaborations with other departments in School? We already work closely with Music and Art. Art designed and built The Cherry Orchard set, while pupils from Music play in our orchestra pit. It’s not always easy – everyone is on different timelines – but it’s happening. Sport is catching up too. Dance is now classified as a sport, and although these sessions are only once a week at the moment, we’re hoping to increase that soon. I’d love the football team to come over and understand how hard dance is and how fit you have to be.

Why is it so important for pupils today to have access to performing arts? They need that space to be free, to express themselves. It’s a busy world, and theatre offers an escape like no other. It’s pure joy, freedom and community. When we interview dance scholars, they often say they just ‘feel free.’ That is beautiful – it means we’re doing something right. It is a safe space, and pupils feel at home in the BTT. They leave School prepared for whatever life throws at them.

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“ The goal is helping pupils become well-rounded, empathetic, self-aware young adults. Teamwork is everything. You rely on your cast, your crew, your sound tech. You learn to trust, to lead, to collaborate. Those are priceless life skills.”

The Addams Family

You have spoken about Carthusian success stories – can you share a favourite? Eva Pomery (F21). I joined in 2020, and on my second day, I heard her audition for Les Mis. Her voice was unforgettable. She was planning to study law, but I asked her, “What do you want to do?” She said perform. Her parents supported that dream, and now she’s on one of the biggest cruise ships in the world as a lead vocalist. That is the kind of transformation we live for. We have got five or six like her now – pupils clearly heading towards drama school and the industry. It’s happening more and more.

And finally, what is the latest with the BTT refurbishment? Oh, it has been a journey! Challenging, for sure, trying to keep things running while the building is under renovation, but we’ve managed it, and we’re nearly there. It’s going to be a brilliant facility – studio theatre, dance space, rehearsal space, teaching rooms, foyer – it’s all coming together.

Tech – Legally Blonde

It’s long overdue, and with the current level of pupil engagement, it has never been more necessary. Pupils are voting with their feet, and there is nothing better than that.

What have you brought from your time as Phantom in the West End to your role here? The role is a dream come true – a gift of a role and a joy to play. But honestly? I am more inspired by our pupils than they are by me. I adore my job here. All it takes is one moment, one lyric, one bow to ignite a passion in a young person. I am beyond enthusiastic about inspiring the next generation. I work in the greatest place on campus – it’s a privilege every single day.

Legally Blonde

Rising Stars

Studio Addiction Dora Liu (W), a Second Year Specialist studying for the IB Diploma Programme, has had one of her artworks selected to illustrate the poster for the annual Charterhouse Safeguarding Conference, In Safe Hands, taking place on 19 June 2025. She shares the inspiration behind her powerful and thought-provoking piece. “What inspired me was my own interactions with my phone and devices. While I often noticed a sense of satisfaction while using them, I’d find myself feeling stressed afterwards. I realised I was subconsciously picking up my phone and scrolling without thinking. I don’t feel I have full control over my device, and that caused me to reflect on the experience through a more surrealist image in a painting.” Dora’s artwork is part of her IB exhibition. She explained the broader theme behind her work: “My exhibition is about identity and how society impacts itself, observing these social phenomena that interact with who we are and how we view ourselves. My artistic journey starts with a theme or an idea I want to express. In this piece, Addiction, I wanted to explore phone addiction. I sketched out different concepts and researched other artists. For example, the Japanese artist Tetsuya Ishida inspired me. His use of repetitive figures, combined with different furniture, show societal oppression in workspaces. It is that way of manipulating the scale of everyday objects that really inspired me. That’s why I arranged a big phone with people immersed into it.”

“ Dora’s brilliant painting of a huge, glowing, ominous mobile phone – with figures surrounding it, drawn to the light, transfixed, swallowed or worshipping – literally stopped me in my tracks.” Alex Colclough Deputy Head (Safeguarding, Learning Support & SEND)

Dora chose oil painting as the best medium: “I wanted the image to have a realism aspect. An oil painting allowed me to express the colour contrast between the cold prison-like setting and the warm, elusive glow of the phone screen. The intricacy of oil painting allowed me to portray the figures in a realistic way, which helps viewers immerse themselves in the world I created. I want viewers to feel shocked and alarmed. I want them to reflect on their own relationship with devices, to consider the power dynamics between humans and technology. I think people are overly reliant on tech, and we don’t realise that whilst we create technology, our creations are also manipulating us. I want people to reflect on that and consider how they view technology, as well as the dangers or the negative effects it can have.

Looking ahead, Dora is still deciding on her next steps. She is considering a double degree in fine art and physics. In the future, she hopes to create more installation pieces and interactive works that incorporate theories of quantum mechanics. “I find parallels between the unpredictable nature of subatomic particles and the ambiguity of human emotions. I think that’s an interesting theme I could explore. Career-wise, I think being an artist would be amazing, but I’m also thinking about working in Formula One and pursuing design engineering as well.”

Addiction

Charterhouse Studio is special because, when I work in the space, it makes me feel like an independent artist. As Specialists, we get our own space, and I can set up my paintings differently and view my work as a whole. The different spaces, for example, ceramics and the darkroom, allow us to experiment with mediums to find the best way to express what we want in an artistic way.” 17

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OC News OC Executive Club – Review of the Year Isabelle Duncan (S92) – President I’m thankful to have a solid batting line-up on our OC Executive Club to keep the clubs, societies and OC initiatives evolving and blossoming. Not to mention the stoic support by the Charterhouse Foundation team, driven by the indefatigable Heidi Kitson. We are also fortunate to have Michael Doggart (S73) staying on as Chairman of the OC Executive Club to guide us with a steady and experienced hand.

The goal of the OC Executive Club, with the support of the School, is very much to drive the involvement of all OCs, with a focus on recent leavers and women, whilst delicately navigating the challenges of GDPR to increase awareness of all the exciting events that are happening.

Highlights of the past year must be the revival of the OC Music Society by our Secretary, Francesca Lett (g92). She threw her heart and soul into raising over 80 OC singers to perform at an OC Choral Day in Chapel last November. It was a hit and there will be more to come.

OC Fives were saddened by the loss of their fantastic leader, Ronald Pattison (V69), but continue to thrive, and OC Tennis are looking for a new captain to build on their previous success – please get in touch with Heidi in Foundation (foundation@charterhouse.org.uk) if you are interested.

Another moment of glory came in the shape of the inaugural OC Women’s cricket match versus the current Carthusians, played on Carthusian Day, as the centrepiece on Maniacs. The OC Women, led by the indomitable Fleur Keeble (V18), were a trifle rusty and were soundly beaten by the Charterhouse 1st XI. There is, however, plenty of promising raw talent in the side and winter nets at Lord’s will soon sharpen them up. We are hoping to get a few more fixtures under our belt, as there are rumblings of a women’s Cricketer Cup competition on the horizon. If you’d like to feel willow on leather, please do get in touch with me isabelle@isabelleduncan.co.uk. All standards, including beginners, are welcome.

Congratulations to the Old Robinites on a successful run of events, attracting huge numbers. We have also seen great success in sailing through the OC Yacht Club, as well as in the OC Rifle and OC Cricket, with the Friars reaching the semi-finals of the Cricketer Cup last summer.

We are keen for OCs to come forward with fresh ideas for clubs and societies. Our esteemed and scholarly treasurer, Indy Bhattacharyya (G94), is on hand to support OC Clubs financially. Contact: indyb11@hotmail.com In the last year, OC Fives has made a comeback after a hiatus and is now thriving with the backing of the OC Executive Club. To take full advantage of the OC community, please sign up to Charterhouse Connect: charterhouseconnect.org.uk Chris Kurkjian (W93) – OC Societies Our new committee kicked off 2024 with a very well-attended OC Sports Clubs and Societies cocktail party at Queen’s Club in March, where we heard about best practices from the most active societies as well as a few words of welcome from the OC Executive Club. 18

We have seen the revival of OC Music, led by Francesca Lett (g92), with a choral concert in Chapel on 2 November and an outstanding concert, featuring OC participation, at Cadogan Hall on 5 February.

We look forward to hearing about further achievements and are on hand to support Clubs and Societies with bursaries where we can! Ed Rees (L91) – OC Networking, Mentoring and University Outreach Our last committee meeting saw us explore ways in which we can support Carthusians attending university Open Days. Whilst there are plenty of organised events for Freshers starting their university careers, for Second Year Specialists who are visiting universities for the first time and trying to make important decisions about their futures, it can be quite daunting. Aside from the departmental offerings, it can sometimes be difficult to know what else to look at and where to go when visiting universities on Open Days, particularly those which are spread out across large cities. So, the idea was to begin building a network of OCs, probably Freshers, who would be on hand to act as points of contact for current Carthusians visiting some of the more popular university destinations. We look forward to updating you on the progress of this initiative in future communications. If you are currently an OC at university and would like to get involved, please contact James Hazeldine jsh@charterhouse.org.uk

Profiles | Events | Reunions | Sports

Charterhouse Art Network Choosing to keep up to date with evolving trends, we decided to abandon the somewhat archaic ‘Old Carthusian Art Society’ and, thanks to a proposal from Anna Monkman (G15), replaced it with the up-to-the-minute ‘Charterhouse Art Network (CAN)’.

Bearing in mind the demands on everybody’s time, it is still CAN policy to organise several events each year; 2024 was no exception, and we thoroughly enjoyed the following:

At the same time, we organised a competition asking OCs to design a new logo, for which a handsome prize was awarded. Among many good entries, the overall winner was David Sudlow (H98), and the result is as you see below.

• A visit to the Picker Trust. This truly was a highlight. In the 1950s, cosmetics magnate Stanley Picker, in a house specially designed for him by architect Ken Wood, put together an impressive collection of modern British art. This is now displayed as it was when Stanley died in 1982, not only in the house itself, but in the most magnificent pavilion he had designed and built in his beautiful garden on Kingston Hill. A world-class collection, which is well (by appointment only) worth a visit.

• Our annual judging/prize-giving.

• A life drawing class – always popular. • Our annual dinner – a perennial favourite, well attended this year as always. And so, we move into 2025. Once again, we have an eclectic programme ahead of us: • A life drawing class. • A visit to the Folkestone Triennial (late summer). • The annual dinner (pencilled in for December). Whilst on the subject of prizes, CAN once again awarded three prizes to current pupils at the School towards the end of Cricket Quarter 2024. Judging these prizes is, without doubt, one of the artistic highlights of the year. The standard of Art at Charterhouse never ceases to amaze. Extraordinarily, this year, two of the prizes were not awarded to Specialists, but to members of the Under School. We will indeed be interested to see how the pupils progress over the next two years.

The one disappointment: the relative lack of younger OCs joining and becoming involved with CAN. Please do not hold back – it really is fun! Contact secretary@charterhouseartnetwork.com Jeremy Levison (G69) Chairman of CAN

With the retirement of Peter Monkman (BH 2004 – 2024) (much missed – though we do see him at CAN events), the School’s Art department is now in the excellent and capable hands of Helen Pinkney. Floreat indeed! The sad news from last year is that we were unable to hold the biennial exhibition at the School, the reason being that, with the ongoing works to expand Studio, the facilities were simply not available. We do hope to arrange a date to exhibit in the new Studio space soon.

Art & Design Engineering Centre 19

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OC Music

The OC Music Society was an extremely popular community, led valiantly for many years by Bill Shipton (G80). Francesca Lett (g92) took up the challenge of reviving the Society with the kind help of the former Director of Music, Mark Shepherd (BH 2003-2023), as well as Giles Schofield (S80) and Bill Shipton, who agreed to become Presidents of the Society. She reached out to all generations of musicians, music lovers and music scholars stretching back to the 1960s. The OC Music Society wanted to kick-start the newly refreshed society by bringing together as many OCs as possible to sing in a choral event in the School’s Memorial Chapel. The date was set, Saturday 2 November 2024, the venue was booked, the sheet music was prepared (thanks to the Music department), the OCs were ready, now all we needed was a conductor and an organist. Mark Shepherd graciously agreed to conduct the event and suggested his friend and former colleague, Mark Blatchly (G77 and BH 1996-2018), to play the organ. What a team! The day of the concert approached rapidly, and at one point, we thought we wouldn’t have an organist, as Mark had unfortunately been struck down by a bout of Covid! Fortunately, Mark made a speedy recovery and was able to play for the concert. What an absolute pleasure it was to have him on board – a remarkable and truly magnificent organist. We decided to hold an afternoon rehearsal on the day of the concert, so at 2.30pm when the Chapel doors opened, OCs of all ages and generations started to commune and gather for the choral event. It was wonderful to see people greeting each other, having not been in touch for years. The one common denominator they all shared was their love and passion of music. The rehearsal went swimmingly, and we stopped to have a well-earned tea break in the Ralph Vaughn Williams Music School (RVW) before the concert. Most of us had not been back in the RVW since the day we left Charterhouse. Safe to say, it has not changed in the slightest! 20

The concert itself was a triumph, and several OCs came to support the event. Mark Shepherd compiled a wonderful and varying programme of popular anthems and choral works for the first half, and we decided many months before that we would fill the second half with the Faure Requiem. Susan Ardis (R94) and Tianzong Cheng (H24) sang the soprano and bass solos beautifully. It was wonderful to be back in the choir stalls over thirty years later, blasting out all the wonderful favourites again, from O Thou the Central Orb (Wood) to Cantique de Jean Racine (Fauré). Francesca would like to thank Mark Shepherd for conducting and for all his support and time, and Mark Blatchly for playing the organ so wonderfully, as well as all the OC singers who sang in the concert. Here’s to the next event! We hope to hold a similar concert again very soon. Please do get in touch with Francesca if you are interested in being part of the next event (OCMusicSociety@gmail.com) or via Charterhouse Connect (charterhouseconnect.org.uk).

“ A huge thank you from both my son Peter and me for setting up such a thoroughly enjoyable day of singing the most glorious programme of music. For me, it was the first time I had returned to sing in the Chapel for 50 years – so it was a very special occasion – and made even better by the wonderful acoustics!” Richard Folkes (V74)

“ Thanks so much for organising this. I absolutely loved being back in that wonderful space, singing! It was such a privilege to be led by the Marks again. Looking forward to the next one.” Vanessa Fullerton (V05)

Profiles | Events | Reunions | Sports

OC Cricket

The Friars’ summer of 2024 got off to a flying start in May with a convincing win over the School in our annual T20 season opener, with Alex Gordon-Martin (V01) starring with a silky innings of 87. The following Sunday, we completed our Cricketer Cup preparations with a T20 day at Eton, winning once and losing once against Marlborough Blues and Old Amplefordians. A week later, we travelled to Eastbourne, having been drawn in the bye round of the Cricketer Cup. On a sticky wicket, our spin trio of Jonny Gonszor (P12), Aman Mahtani (L18) and Jonty Postlewhite (V23) made light work of the hosts. Gonszor eventually picked up the Player of the Match award for his contribution of 38 with the bat and 4/24 with the ball in a low scoring nail biter. In the first round, we hosted a strong Shrewsbury Saracens side on Green, initially restricting the visitors to a competitive total of 232. Opener Tom Gallyer (S12) got the run chase off to a flying start with a run-a-ball 50. This opening onslaught was followed by one of the great knocks from Cricketer Cup Hall of Famer James Hamblin (g96). He went past 2,000 runs in the competition en route to 97* and the Player of the Match award. Unlike the first two rounds, our trip to Brighton College was a one-sided affair, as the Friars completed a comprehensive 166 win on the south coast. Skipper Olly Batchelor (W14) starred with 96 with the bat, and Jonny Charles (L16) picked up the Player of the Match award for his 5/29. We welcomed Old Cheltonians to Charterhouse for the quarter-final, and once again the skipper, Batchelor, led from the front, producing the innings of the summer, contributing 113 of our total of 175. Cheltenham folding for 79 all out in response highlighted the class Batchelor showed. Ollie Sheen (W20) bowled with real pace up front and was expertly followed by the spin trio of Charles, Gonszor and Mahtani. Gonszor picked up his best Cricketer Cup figures of 4/7.

Join the Charterhouse OC Women’s Cricket Club! Are you an Old Carthusian passionate about cricket? The OC Women’s Cricket Club is the perfect place to connect with fellow alumni while enjoying the sport you love. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, this club welcomes all skill levels and provides opportunities for friendly matches, skill development and community engagement. Be part of this exciting new initiative that fosters camaraderie and strengthens ties within the Charterhouse alumni network. Let’s build a vibrant team together! To sign up or learn more, contact us today OCLadiesCricket@outlook.com, or via Isabelle Duncan (S92) isabelle@isabelleduncan.co.uk or through Charterhouse Connect (CharterhouseConnect.org.uk). We look forward to seeing you on the pitch!

2024 saw us reach our first semi-final since 2019 as we hosted Bradfield Waifs, who arrived without a number of their first-class players. Despite this, they bowled brilliantly in the first innings, squeezing the Friars at every turn. If it weren’t for half-centuries from Batchelor and Ben Jeffrey (B09), the match would have been over far earlier. Unfortunately, the Waifs made light work of the run chase, coming out seven-wicket winners and eventually going on to win the final, beating the Old Tonbridgians. All in all though, an extremely successful summer with further regular season wins against the Old Wellingtonians and the Free Foresters in the annual Ed How memorial fixture. Thank you to the committee – Henry and Hector Don (R08), Alex Rozier-Pamplin (R10), Ishaan Rajan (L17), Jonny Charles, Dickie Cowling (R87), George Adolphus (R08) and Mike Doggart (S73) – whose hard work makes all the enjoyable moments on Green possible each year. Ben Ryder-Smith (L06) For more information on how to get involved, contact OC Friars Cricket on Charterhouse Connect. 21

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OC Yacht Club The highlight of the OC Yacht Club calendar in 2024 must be The Arrow Trophy. From 4-6 October 2024, the OC Yacht Club (OCYC) completed our best performance in this blue-riband event of alumni sailing for 19 years. The end of the fleet racing on the Saturday saw Charterhouse in pole position, having achieved 1st, 1st, 1st and 4th in the four races. Sunday climaxed with us leading the match racing’s final decider with only 50 metres to go, only to be penalised on an obscure technicality – “fouling” Winchester by allowing them to sail into the back of us. This forced us into second overall (out of 19). This makes it five years in a row – the club’s longest run – that we have won one of the regatta’s top four match racing prizes, this time winning the Sherborne Salver.

Profiles | Events | Reunions | Sports

During the Friday practice day, the OCYC hove to (came to a stop) in respect for our late Senior Chaplain, Rev. Stephan Harker (BH 1981 – 2016), at the start of his funeral. The Arrow crew this year comprised Peter Mills (D99), Tim Tocher (P84), John Skipper (B82), Jim Miller (P85), Julian BrookeHoughton (P64), Andrew Moncrief (D86), David Hunt (S65), Julian Marsh (V89), Alex Peattie (G12) and Charlie Kitching (D14). This year’s OCYC events began once again with a very well-attended curry evening in February, organised by Peter Munro (H62) at the Army and Navy Club. Our first sailing event was a rally to the Royal Motor Yacht Club in Poole, hosted by David Macey (P72). The boats raced to Poole from the Solent, with the winning vessel on corrected time being Eagle, helmed by Emily Pite (F16), just beating Clara, helmed and skippered by Charles Blampied (g67). A superb dinner was held at the Royal Motor Yacht Club, where the Charterhouse Baden Powell Trophy and the World Water Speed Record Trophy (won by both Sir Malcolm and Donald Campbell) took pride of place. The June J70 meeting at Cowes took place once more this year with a very good turnout of current Carthusians, supervised by beaks and supported by OCYC members. This year, Sevenoaks were also invited to take part. Great fun was had by all, with Sevenoaks proving to be a formidable opponent and winning the regatta overall. The event was organised by David Aisher (S68) and hosted by the Royal Yacht Squadron, who provided excellent race management and a sumptuous and extensive cream tea! The J70 racing was preceded the day before by an extremely imaginative treasure hunt devised by Jim Miller (P85) and his wife, Helen. The hunt was based on the historically accurate 1980s BBC documentary series, Allo Allo. Crews (Allied) had to find and decode clues typical of those set in SOE training. Everyone put in a tremendous effort to dress in the authentic clothing depicted in the TV series. Characters

The Charterhouse 2024 Arrow Trophy Team

The Baden Powell Trophy and the World Water Speed Record Trophy

The J70 fleet

Close racing – OCYC members crewing with current Carthusians

included René Artois, Roger LeClerc, a British airman (one even disguised as a nun!), members of the Resistance, café waitresses and French locals. Instructions were provided to each boat on parachute silk, hidden inside knockwurst sausages. After a thrilling day in the Beaulieu and Medina rivers, the hunt was eventually won by British Airmen Tim Miller (P83) and Fiona Miller. Late August saw us finally managing to reach Alderney, our plans last year having been thwarted by the weather. Five boats converged on Braye Harbour in time for a tense golf match organised by David Hunt (S65), followed by dinner at The Georgian House organised by Jonathan Rolls (W64). The next day saw most of the fleet race to Cherbourg, a close strategic scrap developing between Eagle and Xara, ultimately won by Eagle. Boats then headed off in various directions, some heading for home and some journeying onwards to various French destinations.

Early November once again saw us gather for Bessie’s Gallop – Nick’s Leap. Nicholas Grey was born circa 1590. A renowned classical scholar, he was chosen by the Bishop of London to serve as the first Headmaster (then called the Schoolmaster) of Charterhouse. Boats converged on Cowes in much better conditions than in many previous years, but it was still cold! Xara, Eagle, Magewind and Firebird competed for the now somewhat dilapidated rum barrel. As expected, Xara, skippered by Jonathan Rolls (W64), sailed off into the sunset for a very convincing race win. Magewind, skippered by John Skipper (B82), came 2nd. The race was followed by an excellent dinner in the Royal Yacht Squadron, bringing to a close another fun, busy and successful year. 2025 sees another full list of fixtures for the OCYC. To join in or find out more, contact ocyc.hon.sec@gmail.com or check us out on Charterhouse Connect. Tim Miller (P83) Hon. Secretary OCYC 23

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OC Golf Society

Alex Stanley (S99)

2024 was a pivotal year as we welcomed 24 new members, over half of whom are under 30, increasing our total membership by more than 10%. Nearly 100 OCs took part in at least one of our fixtures, of whom 22 were playing in their first OC Golf Society event, and it was really encouraging to see so many younger OCs at our Spring and Autumn meetings as well as our inaugural Old vs New Houses dust-up in June (which the New Houses won). Harry Gilbey (W18) was the star man at the Spring Meeting at Royal St George’s, winning two of the foursomes’ trophies, while Simon Stilwell (g95) shot an impressive gross 67 round the Blue course at the Berkshire in the Autumn Meeting. Zach Kirton (H), currently a Second Year Specialist and playing at our invitation, shot level par – equally impressive given he’d never played the course before. In the scratch tournaments, our Senior Darwin team reached the semi-final, with the standout performances coming from Nigel Gray (H74) and Malcolm Bradley (G74), who won all three matches, and Roddy Gamble (H61) and Nick Moore (R67) did even better, claiming the Veteran Darwin. Julian Hill’s (W79) team then successfully defended the Darwin at Woking. After wins over Westminster, Harrow and Repton, we defeated Tonbridge in the final. Jumbo Royds (W78) and Richard Allen (B84) proved a very strong pair, while George Asprey (V85) replaced Hill to partner Michael Croft (V87) on day two. Gray and Bradley continued their superb run by going unbeaten in four matches. We were runners-up to Eton at the Royal Wimbledon putting competition and also lost to them in the third round of the Halford Hewitt, which they went on to win in its centennial year.

Darwin Side Team L-R George Asprey, Mike Croft, Malcom Bradley, Nigel Gray, Ludovic Royds and Richard Allen

Andy Hollingsworth’s (L98) Grafton Morrish team reached the semi-final, a major surprise given that a week earlier we were not even in the tournament and only received a late call-up due to another school pulling out. After defeating Harrow and Brentwood, we found ourselves up against Millfield, who won the event in 2021 and were runners-up in 2023. Despite being heavy underdogs, we edged home in a nail-biting finish, halving two matches and winning the other at the 18th despite being three down with five holes to play. Alex Stanley’s (S99) winning 20-foot putt on the last green – the only time he and his partner were up in the match – will live long in the memory. Finally, we ran out of steam against Woodbridge. Ludo Royds (W13), on debut, played superbly with partner Harry Light (V13), winning three points out of five across the Queen Elizabeth tournament in Edinburgh and the Grafton. We recently kicked off a scheme like the ‘Thousand Greens’ concept, where members get to play at other members’ clubs, subject to finding a convenient date. The scheme is now underway with 15 clubs, including Sunningdale, Royal St George’s, Walton Heath and the Berkshire, and we’re hoping to add more in the future. This year we are heading to Royal West Norfolk for our Spring Meeting on 9 and 10 May. Whatever level you play at, if you’d like to get involved or find out more, contact Barnaby Mote barnaby.mote9@gmail.com or 07740 703675. Under 25s join free of charge, and if you’re over 25 years of age there is no subscription until you’ve played in at least one of our fixtures. Barnaby Mote (V91)

Profiles | Events | Reunions | Sports

OC Badminton 2024 was a special year for OC Badminton, as we returned to School and played once again at Queen’s Sports Centre (QSC). The highlight of the year was the first-ever OC Badminton Match on 12 November 2024, where OCs of all skill levels reunited for an afternoon of competitive but friendly games. For many of us, stepping back onto the courts at QSC felt like coming home. The familiar environment, the energy of the matches and the chance to reconnect with old teammates made it a truly memorable event. Beyond matches, OC Badminton is about community. The post-match gatherings were just as enjoyable as the games themselves, offering a great opportunity to catch up, share memories and welcome new faces into the club. Whether you are a seasoned player or just looking for a casual game, OC Badminton is open to everyone, and we hope to see even more OCs join us in future events.

Post-match dinner L-R Dylan Lin (G23), Eric Zhu (g23), Rich Castro, Minsung (g23), Elwen (g24) and Jiachen Zhang (P22)

“ Reuniting with old friends and playing at QSC again made me feel like I never left the Charterhouse Badminton Team.” Dylan (G23) We are excited to grow the club and host more matches and events in the future. If you’re interested, get involved – we’d love to see you on court! Contact OC Badminton Club on Charterhouse Connect.

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Championing Food Innovation and Sustainability An interview with Matt Reid (W99)

Since leaving Charterhouse, Matt has become a serial entrepreneur with a focus on food and sustainability. Now based in Hong Kong with his wife and two young children, we spoke with Matt about his memories of School, his drive to continue to develop new businesses and his determination to make the food industry more sustainable.

Interview by Laura Holmes Director of Philanthropy

What have you been up to since leaving Charterhouse? After building a love for politics under Dr Bennett, I defied my predicted grades to get 3 As at A Level and went to Bristol University to study the subject. I am still proud of the hard work which went into getting these grades and proving the point to some beaks who did not think I could do it. I met my business partner at Bristol, and we have now been working together for 25 years.

deciding I wanted to work for myself, so I took a leap and moved to Beijing. During my first nine months in China, I met a Harrovian, and between us we created the number one vodka business in China. After selling the business in 2008, I moved to Hong Kong and set up a restaurant business, Maximal Concepts, through which we created Mott 32 – a restaurant that has disrupted Chinese cuisine by using produce from other countries and bringing in new techniques.

My first company ran student and club events, providing me with on-the-job business knowledge as well as growing my love for hospitality. After university, I moved to London, where I did a masters in marketing and took on my only employed role at LexisNexis. I lasted six months before

Mott 32 has been a tremendous success, and we now have 10 restaurants in some of the most amazing hotels and buildings around the world, with a further 10 in development. We are now the number one global luxury Chinese restaurant brand, and I am so proud of what we have built, through doing what we love.

Weekites Leavers 1999

On the journey, we looked at our key performance indicators and decided to prioritise how we help our community, how we look after ourselves, how we look after the environment and, finally, how we look after our shareholders. Our restaurant is a platform for us and a way to communicate, and our ambition is to inspire and inform customers while showing them another way. We wanted to connect with where the produce in our restaurants comes from.

How did your passion for sustainable produce develop? In 2014, filmmaker Craig Leeson came to see us and showed us scientific proof that when you eat seafood, you eat plastic. We were so inspired that we decided to work together on a film called A Plastic Ocean, which became one of the most successful environmental films of all time. We travelled with the film to festivals throughout that time, and it is now used by the UN and translated into 60 languages. Following the success of A Plastic Ocean, we worked with Craig again on The Last Glacier, an environmental film that was released in 2022 in IMAX cinemas. After our experience with the film, we were determined to apply its learnings, and we now do not use single-use plastics in any of our businesses. We have also created a research and development business to look at plastic alternatives and have invested in companies such as Reel, the largest tree-free paper company in the US, and Hold On, which creates compostable zip-lock bags and rubbish bags. Really excitingly, this business is now creating non-plastic porridge and ice cream pots in our new factory in Cornwall. During the Covid-19 lockdown of 2020, I was in Hong Kong with my two children, and I started to think more about the health of our food supply chain. I decided to focus my time on creating innovations that move us towards a more sustainable world and provide a better future for my children to grow up in. Since then, I have been focused on helping farms get their produce into the food chain through our business, KinFarms. We work with farms that uphold good animal ethics and do not harm the soil, helping their distribution strategies and supporting them in getting their produce into supermarkets, hotels and restaurants both locally and globally. The goal is to compete with other products at the same price points, and the main way we can do this is through Chinese agriculture. Farmers in China work on farmland owned by the government, and due to this, they aren’t able to cut corners, so the soil remains healthy and of good quality. I believe Asia, especially China, can become the low-cost producer of sustainable, regenerative and healthy agriculture, competing with the industrial system. The UK is doing well in this space already, and there is a good awareness around organic food, veganism, etc., but in other parts of the world, this is an anomaly, especially in the food and beverage industry.

What’s next for you and what tips could you give current Carthusians? The revolution that’s required to address environmental issues around the world is an opportunity for young people. It might be a scary time to join the workforce, but the changes in processes and products are exciting and should be embraced as entrepreneurial opportunities. Now is the time to embrace innovation in technology, and I think it is good to look at a sector which interests you and frame the problem as an opportunity.

You’ve done so much! What are the next challenges and opportunities for you? We are at an exciting point, having recently merged our restaurant company with a bigger partner and built in our first exit from a business. We are consolidating the companies which were behind our first business, and I am transitioning towards passive leadership rather than active leadership. I would like to work towards helping guide people on their business journey rather than continue to lead it myself. I feel it is a natural evolution and will allow me to focus on family as well as business. Although, I have a mild addiction to building businesses, so it may be challenging to let go completely!

Can you share some of your memories of Charterhouse with us? My experience of Charterhouse was fundamental to my life. I failed the entrance exams but somehow secured an interview with Mr Heaton-Watson (Head of House, Weekites), who saw that I was a Charterhouse type of person, and I somehow got in. I had a group of super bright friends in my year, and I rose up with them. I applied myself so much in the last two years, and I do not think I have worked so hard since, but I was determined to get the grades. I had a wonderful teacher of Art, Miss Pinkney, through whom I developed my love of design, which is one of the reasons I went into the restaurant business. I had a wonderful school experience; I gained so much confidence from it and became proficient in public speaking, among other things. I believe pupils leave Charterhouse as more rounded, confident, smart, curious, driven and creative young people. Reflecting on my time, I achieved what I have through genuine hard work in my exams and subsequently in my career. I have pushed harder and worked more hours to achieve what I wanted. I had to fight at School to keep up, and I’ve kept this going into my career. I know that if I really apply myself, I can do anything. I still look very fondly on the foundations Charterhouse provided for me. 27

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Nurturing Intellectual Growth By Michael Dawson Head of Scholarship

Scholarship at Charterhouse extends far beyond the curriculum and entails more than achieving excellent grades. At its core, the programme seeks to cultivate a love of learning and nurture the intellectual growth of every Scholar.

“ While writing the Higher Project Qualification (HPQ), I found out the intricacy of how to structure a well-written dissertation and gained transferable skills, such as how to write a literature review and a bibliography. Alongside this, I was also able to learn how to cope with a large workload, which is beneficial for School life as well, improving my overall productivity during banco slots and when I need to revise for future exams.” Alex Christofides – Remove (V)

“ My personal experience of the Scholar Pathway has been an exceptionally positive one. Under the guidance of Mr Dawson, I received invaluable advice on the steps I needed to take to ensure that my application to university was the best it could be, to maximise my chances of realising my university ambitions. Mr Dawson helped me to achieve a place on a competitive London School of Economics (LSE) taster course in Economic History, something I later referenced in my personal statement. I was then accepted to read History at LSE.” Viggo Terling – Second Year Specialist (g) 28

“ From my personal experience, the Scholar Pathway has been a great way to centralise the work I’ve already done towards my course, whilst exploring new ways to expand on my existing super-curriculars, guided by a beak well versed in my subject. Considering I’m applying to five incredibly competitive universities, this process has been particularly helpful when producing my personal statement, as well as when preparing for interview at Oxford University specifically.” Olu Agboola – Second Year Specialist (P)

The Scholarship Programme is different for each year, but all Scholars are encouraged to attend Scholars’ Society, Essay Society and Competitions Society. Through these core activities, it is expected that Scholars will develop a genuine academic passion and demonstrate this to both beaks and their peers. Upon entering Fourth Form, Scholars are assigned a mentor from the School’s Academic Management Team (AMT): either a member of Senior Leadership or a beak with a prominent academic role within the School. Throughout their first year, Fourth Form Scholars write a series of essays and meet with their AMT mentors to receive feedback on their work. This provides Scholars with tailored, one-to-one feedback at a formative stage in their academic development. Each year, Fourth Form Scholars also attend New Scientist Live, a prominent science festival and exhibition organised by New Scientist magazine. Scholars are given the opportunity to listen to lectures on cutting-edge research and to speak with academics, science educators and industry professionals. The Scholars’ experiences as Fourths prepare them for the rigours of Remove, in which they complete the Higher Project Qualification (HPQ): a research-based qualification that encourages pupils to develop independent research skills and culminates in a two-thousand-word research project on any academic topic of their choice. The summer term sees Removes Scholars embarking on a cultural trip. Destinations have included London’s art galleries, a tour of Oxford colleges, a private visit to the Sarikhani collection and tailored workshops on the history of cultural appropriation at Oxford’s Pitt Rivers Museum.

As Specialists, Scholars are introduced to the Scholar Pathway, a programme that seeks to curate Scholars’ academic profiles for elite university entry. Specialists Scholars meet regularly with the Head of Scholarship on a one-to-one basis to discuss super-curricular reading and external competitions. We work closely at this point with the Head of Futures and Oxbridge Coordinator to ensure that Scholars are well-prepared for courses at elite universities. This year, a number of Specialist Scholars will embark on a unique tour of US universities designed to help them make the right choice for the next step beyond School. Senior Scholars are selected at the end of First Year Specialists after a rigorous application and interview process where they are asked to demonstrate their commitment to the programme and share their achievements as well as outline how they will contribute further as leaders of the programme. The baton is formally passed over to them at the annual Scholars’ dinner, a formal gathering in Hall. The Scholars themselves seek guest speakers. This year, Eamonn Butler, founder of the Adam Smith Institute, addressed us on the exciting world of think tanks. Participating in the Scholarship Programme has been a transformative experience for many of our pupils. Through this opportunity, they have gained valuable skills, expanded their horizons and built a deeper sense of confidence in their academic and personal journeys.

“ Taking part in Competitions Society means interacting with entirely new topics each week, from symbolism and chivalry in medieval folklore to Baudrillard’s consumerist hyperreality. This extraordinary exposure “ I have enjoyed every moment of School so far. The to material was invaluable when working on my entry Scholarship Programme has played a key role in some to the Keats-Shelley Prize, where I evaluated Shelley’s of these moments. So far, we’ve been taken to the New conflicted relationship with atheism in relation to Scientist Live expo in London, and have been given other Romantic poets. A constant view to presenting essay competitions with interesting, pressing and in Essay Society has helped focus relevant topics as the titles. The scholarship team is my research, allowing me there if ever you need any help, and always willing to to apply what I learn.” have a discussion.” Tadeus Safinia – Fourth (G)

Alison Barrable – First Year Specialist (W)

The historic loving cup, passed around during Scholars’ Adsum on Founder’s Day, bears the names of early Scholars scratched inside

Charterhouse Rocks As the School’s contemporary music scene grows, new bands are stepping up, inspired by the ones that came before them. Ian Kellett, our Head of Contemporary Music, offers an inside view. I’ve always loved music, from playing my parents’ vinyl to discovering rock and playing my first electric guitar. Studying music technology at Rose Bruford College connected me with like-minded musicians, leading to over a decade of gigging, recording and session work. Touring with Emiliana Torrini took me across the UK, Europe, America and Australia. In 2010, after my daughter Ivy’s birth, I transitioned to scoring music for adverts and TV and teaching guitar in secondary schools, where I found joy in helping students develop strong practice routines and achieve fantastic musical results. In 2023, Charterhouse approached The Rhythm Studio, West London’s fantastic academy of music, to discuss reinvigorating the contemporary music programme at the School. Having worked alongside The Rhythm Studio for many years, I was approached to see if it was something I would be interested in. The Charterhouse Rocks Society was formed, and the rest is history! I feel so well supported by the fantastic music team at Charterhouse. They are always open to new ideas and ready to welcome any pupils with enthusiasm into the family. I really value giving children the security and 30

encouragement to come forward for ensemble opportunities and, once paired with other like-minded musicians, the time to experiment and nurture their music. Here, they can gain skills and confidence and take part in the myriad of performances we have to offer. We have so many exciting projects on the go! In addition to the termly Charterhouse Rocks performance opportunities, we have just hosted our first annual Battle of The Bands, with 13 acts performing to a sold-out crowd in the BTT. This year’s Artifex aims to be an extended outdoor showcase for all our bands, with an open-mic style Coffee House event also in the planning. Cricket Quarter sees a brand-new opportunity for budding songwriters, and in Long Quarter, we debuted the new annual Sound of Drums concert to demonstrate our incredible drummers. The upcoming Italy tour in July will also let our musicians collaborate outside of their usual groups and perform in all sorts of exciting venues across central Italy. Elsewhere, collaborations between the jazz and rock bands are an exciting possibility. Lastly, the opportunity for our elite ensembles to perform alongside the orchestra and choir at London’s Cadogan Hall in February was a huge highlight for the School and music department.

A Night of Musical Brilliance at Cadogan Hall By Jamal Sutton

Assistant Musical Director On Wednesday 5 February, over 100 musicians made their way to the iconic Cadogan Hall, ready to demonstrate weeks of dedication and hard work.

Max Papasavvas (G) and Ben Meyer-Bothling (G), Second Year Specialists and members of the Charterhouse Rocks Society, presented some questions to Ian. Who are some of your biggest musical influences, and how have they shaped your approach? I’ve always loved guitar players, from Joni Mitchell to Diamond Darrell, but my real heroes are the young musicians I have helped start on their musical journeys, who inspire me daily and show me that anything is possible. I’m continually in awe of their enthusiasm, efforts and deeply heartfelt performances. Not to mention the privilege of seeing the positive aspects that regular practice and focus gives young people at a crucial time in their development.

How does teaching/mentoring at Charterhouse compare to any previous educational projects that you have been involved with? This is an interesting question, and one I get asked a lot. The processes I follow from school to school are the same. Pupils initially need guidance and mentoring to get started, to learn how to select appropriate material and, most importantly, how to work and communicate as a group. However, ultimately young musicians benefit most from peer-to-peer encouragement and targets such as regular concerts. There is an expectation of a high standard at Charterhouse. It’s great to see the older pupils supporting and encouraging the younger years as they start their journey at the School. The fantastic facilities on offer allow for professional spaces to rehearse and perform. In addition, there are so many adult experts in every possible musical discipline, all ready to teach and help those who show an interest. I personally relish walking around the music department and hearing wonderful strings from one room, woodwind from another, ecstatic singing lessons from the next and a rock band rehearsing down the corridor.

The performance opened with a breathtaking rendition of Arnold Schoenberg’s Notturno for Violin and Strings, featuring an exquisite solo by Christy Choy (F), accompanied by the Chamber Orchestra. Following this, Christy was joined by Damian Kok (R), Jonathan To (L) and Claire Wang (S) for the slow movement of Brahms’ Piano Quartet No.3, a performance that blended deep understanding with seamless ensemble playing. The vocal ensemble Schola Cantorum then delivered a mesmerising performance of Ērik Ešenvalds’ Stars, using wine glasses to create a celestial, atmospheric effect that left the audience spellbound. The Guitar Ensemble and Wind Ensemble followed with Jürg Kindle’s Kalimba and a vibrant arrangement of Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue. The Skate Band’s electrifying performance of Skate (Silk Sonic) was a showstopping performance full of passion and energy. The close harmony group energised the audience with Don’t Stop Believing, before Lyra Guise Tucker (C) brought poise to Nobody Does It Better, backed by the Big Band. After the interval, the pupils took to the stage for a mighty performance of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. Alongside singing teachers Alexandra Stevenson and Claire Sutton-William, we were thrilled to welcome Sam Furness OC as our tenor soloist and David Stout as bass. The Symphony Orchestra, led by Christy, played with real vigour, excitement, pride and musicality. The final movement saw the might of the chorus, bringing this epic piece to a close – a true ode to musical joy! This event will live long in the memory of our Charterhouse musicians, and a huge bravo goes to all involved.

Out of all the Charterhouse rock band performances so far (such as events like Artifex, Carthusian Day etc.), which has been your favourite? I really couldn’t choose a favourite. I feel like the concerts are just getting better and better as the culture within the School grows and new bands start, having seen just how good the older bands already are. I think the Charterhouse Rocks Society has a very bright future, thanks particularly to what the first wave of bands started with Ben and Max back in 2022. 31

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Rising Stars

A profile of Theo Freeland, 2YS, Gownboys

Army Calling Theo joined Charterhouse for Sixth Form with a determination to make every moment count – and he certainly has. Now a Second Year Specialist studying A Levels in History, Geography and Economics, Theo has seized every opportunity, built on his passions and taken on leadership roles that have culminated in the extraordinary achievement of earning a prestigious British Army scholarship. His journey is a remarkable testament to resilience, ambition and an unwavering commitment to service. Speaking with Theo, it’s hard not to be captivated by his enthusiasm and thoughtful reflections on the path that led him here. From the very beginning, Theo’s love for humanities shaped his ambitions. Last year, he completed an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) that explored the effectiveness of the United Nations in resolving conflicts in Bosnia, a topic inspired by his father’s involvement in the region. For Theo, this project was more than an academic exercise; it was an opportunity to connect deeply with his interest in International Relations. “I absolutely loved writing the EPQ,” he shares. “It gave me the chance to follow my passion beyond the curriculum and dive into a subject I really care about. It even links to why I want to join the Army – it’s all about understanding and helping resolve conflicts.”

This passion has fuelled Theo’s broader involvement in School life, from excelling in sports like hockey, football and racquets to joining societies such as the Model United Nations, Geography Society and Christian Union. He sang in the Chapel Choir last year. Theo’s time at Charterhouse has been a whirlwind of activity, but he wouldn’t have it any other way.

With the scholarship secured, Theo is excited to embark on the next phase of his journey. He’s planning a gap year that includes an ambitious trek across Jordan, inspired by Lawrence of Arabia, as well as a stint teaching English in Bolivia to improve his Spanish. After that, he’ll head to university, with International Relations at Durham University as his top choice.

“I knew my time here would be limited,” he says with a smile. “So I just wanted to seize every opportunity. It’s been busy, very busy, but absolutely worth it.” One of Theo’s standout achievements has been his leadership within the Combined Cadet Force (CCF), where he holds the rank of Sergeant in the Army Section. This year, he and his team are gearing up for a major military skills competition against other schools, honing fieldcraft tactics and leadership skills that embody the very essence of teamwork and perseverance. Theo credits his experiences in CCF with shaping his confidence and drive to pursue the Army scholarship. “CCF has been a big thing for me,” he explains. “It’s taught me so much about leadership and resilience. Preparing for the competition has been intense, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. It’s all about working together and pushing yourself to be your best.” When asked what inspired him to apply for the British Army scholarship, Theo’s answer is both heartfelt and profound. “Joining the Army has always been something I’ve felt drawn to,” he says. “It’s not just about a career, it’s a calling, a position of service. I want to give something back to my country, especially in challenging times when there’s a real need to protect others and work together.” The road to earning the scholarship was far from easy, requiring Theo to navigate a rigorous multistage process. After submitting online forms, he underwent a day of medical testing, followed by mock interviews, psychometric assessments and the ultimate test: the three-day Army Officer Scholarship Board course at Westbury. “I was tested in every way possible – physical, mental, emotional,” Theo recalls.

While at university, Theo plans to join the University Officer Training Corps (UOTC), a programme designed to develop leadership skills and provide opportunities to explore different cultures, all while earning invaluable military experience. “The whole environment was designed to push you to your limits. You’re constantly under pressure, not knowing how you’re doing – but it’s all about showing your character and perseverance.” One particularly challenging exercise involved planning a rescue operation based on complex scenarios with limited resources – a test of both strategic thinking and leadership under pressure. “It was tough,” he admits. “Having to remember all the details and defend your plan in front of senior officers really tested my ability to stay calm and think clearly.” What helped Theo succeed in such high-pressure situations? A combination of preparation, sports training and a mindset focused on growth. “I went into the process with an open mind,” he explains. “I saw it as a challenge – a chance to see how I’d perform under pressure, rather than worrying too much about the outcome. That mindset really carried me through.”

Ultimately, Theo hopes to join a combat role in the Army, with a particular interest in The Royal Lancers or The Light Dragoons. “They’re all about constant movement, quick decision-making and working at the front,” he says. “It’s fast-paced and intense, and that’s exactly what appeals to me.” Theo’s journey is one of resilience, ambition and an unrelenting drive to make a difference. As he prepares to leave Charterhouse and take on the challenges ahead, he carries with him the values and experiences that have shaped his time here. “Seize every opportunity,” he advises. “You’re capable of more than you think – you just have to believe in yourself and go for it.” For Theo, the future holds endless possibilities, and for those inspired by his story, it’s a powerful reminder that hard work and perseverance can lead to extraordinary achievements.

“ The Army expects officer applicants to stay informed on current affairs, particularly in defence and society. At Charterhouse, Theo had access to valuable resources like The Times, The Economist and other key publications through the School Library. As an informal mentor, I guided him on using his time effectively and practiced interview questions with him. Theo’s dedication paid off, and his Army Scholarship is thoroughly deserved – they are lucky to have him.” Andrew Brinkley Teacher of History 33

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Maximising Athletic Potential Chris Sandbach, Director of Sport takes us inside the Charterhouse Athlete Programme

The Charterhouse Athlete Programme (CAP) is designed to help young athletes reach their full potential. With 95 pupils enrolled from Fourth Form to Second Year Specialists, our elite performance programme provides a structured approach to strength and conditioning, speed development and personal growth. Ben King, Head of Athletic Development, oversees and leads the coaching for CAP. Each week, the Under School athletes participate in a training schedule tailored to optimise their athletic capabilities. On Monday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings, 50 pupils complete their main strength and conditioning sessions, designed to develop foundational strength and explosive power. Their tailored programmes include key exercises such as barbell back squats, dumbbell chest presses, farmer’s walks and kettlebell reach-throughs. Complementing their strength training, the athletes take to the track for their second weekly session, honing their speed and plyometric abilities. With a focus on acceleration (0-10m) and top speed (up to 60m), these sessions incorporate innovative training tools such as speed parachutes, hurdles and electronic timing gates, an approach that the pupils have really enjoyed and engaged with. At the start and end of each Quarter, CAP athletes undergo baseline testing in power, speed and endurance. Strength progress is assessed through 34

a three-rep maximum back squat and chest press. Over the last 13 weeks, results have shown outstanding improvements, demonstrating the programme’s effectiveness. Sharing these achievements with pupils provides motivation and tangible proof of their progress. In addition to the physical training, CAP has introduced an innovative online speaker series, bringing in experts to address crucial aspects of performance psychology and leadership. This term’s sessions focused on: • Embracing Failure to Achieve Success • Maintaining Personal Wellbeing in the Pursuit of High Performance • The Spirit of Leadership Each session was accompanied by workbooks, encouraging athletes to reflect on their personal goals and leadership development. These thought-provoking discussions have provided pupils with insights into the mindset required for high-level performance, reinforcing the importance of resilience, wellbeing and ambition. For the Specialists, CAP provides two dedicated strength and conditioning sessions per week, with training objectives that align closely with the Under School programme. Each Quarter builds upon the last, ensuring continual development and refinement of their abilities. As CAP continues to evolve, the next five years promise to be a transformative period for the programme.

Charterhouse Sport: Practise with purpose Perform with pride Win with humility Lose with dignity

For our young athletes, CAP is more than just a training programme, it is a cornerstone of their personal and athletic development. Emily, a first Year Specialist Netball player, shares her experience: “Since I joined Charterhouse, Netball has become my passion, shaping me as an individual. The unwavering support and opportunities provided by the School have fuelled my growth, offering a platform for improvement. The dynamic training sessions, matches, inter-house tournaments and guidance from my coaches have elevated my skills in teamwork and resilience. Moreover, CAP has strengthened my physical and mental endurance while educating me as an athlete on the importance of a nutritional diet to optimise my full potential.” Every Quarter, the programme builds and builds, and the sky is the limit for CAP over the next five years. Club Links: • Guildford Hockey • Waverley Vipers Netball • Waverley Athletics • Guildford City Swimming • Chelsea Foundation Football Pupils in CAP are given: • First-class coaching from a range of qualified coaches and staff • Sport Science and Monitoring • Nutritional Support • Psychological Support • Performance Reviews

U15 Girls’ Inter School UK Padel champions 2024/25

Surrey Girls’ Tier 2 Cricket winners 2023/24

Basketball Public Schools champions 2024/25

Sporting Achievements in the Last Year • Shooting team – British Schools Open Champions 2024/25

ISHC U15 Girls’ Hockey Plate winners 2024/25

• Surrey Girls’ Tier 2 Cricket winners 2023/24 • ISHC U15 Girls’ Hockey Plate winners 2024/25 • Basketball Public Schools champions 2024/25 • England Hockey Boys’ U18 Tier 2 finalists (final will be played on 25 April 2025) • U15 Boys’ football team ISFA Cup quarter finals • U15 Girls’ Inter School UK Padel champions 2024/25 • U18 Girls’ 1st XI Football Invitational Tournament Winners 2024/25

England Hockey Boys’ U18 Tier 2 finalists

• U18 Girls’ 1st VII Netball Invitational Tournament Winners 2024/25

Sport stats*

129

921

Sports

Teams

Fixtures

Fixture Participation stats*

100%

96%

81%

71%

65%

Fourths

Removes

Fifths

First Year Specialists

Second Year Specialists

(*Data for OQ and LQ 2024/2025) 35

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Behind the Whistle A conversation with Jo Williams Director of Football

As Jo Williams approaches the end of her first year at Charterhouse, she reflects on the fast-paced and dynamic journey that has come with leading the School’s football programme. Balancing the demands of managing 22 boys’ teams and four girls’ teams, the role has been both challenging and rewarding. “It’s hard to believe it has almost been a year already,” she says with a smile. “There is so much going on, but it is enjoyable. The team I work with is fantastic, and we have really supported one another in such a busy environment.”

“ What makes football at Charterhouse special is the sheer number of pupils involved and how much they genuinely love the game.” Jo Williams Director of Football

Managing a programme of this scale brings its own set of challenges. Traditionally, football leadership roles at the School have been male-lead, but for this Director of Football, the shift towards strengthening both sides has been a valuable opportunity for growth. “It’s a new experience for everyone involved,” Jo explains. “But it is important to me that both boys’ and girls’ football are given equal attention. It has been great to see how we can raise the profile of both.” A standout moment of the year was the U15 Boys’ 1st XI’s impressive run in the ISFA Cup, where they reached the quarter-finals before narrowly losing 1-0. It was a testament to the hard work and talent within the programme. “It was a brilliant cup run,” she recalls. “Even though they did not progress, they gave everything and deserved the win. That game really stood out to me.” Something small that has a significant impact on the girls’ programme is an adjustment to the pitch layout. “We have added an extra football pitch next to Big Ground,” she explains. “This has given us the opportunity to have both boys’ and girls’ first-team matches side by side, which really raised the visibility of the girls’ programme.” Jo places a strong emphasis on fostering a sense of inclusivity within the programme, ensuring that both the top-tier players and those who enjoy football for fun feel equally valued. “It’s important to create a balance,” she says. “There are those who really want to push themselves and perform at a high level, and then there are those who just enjoy the social aspects of playing with friends. The goal is to make sure everyone has a place in the programme.” This inclusive approach extends to how teams are selected for matches. Moving away from rigid distinctions between A, B and C teams, the focus is on encouraging healthy competition

while ensuring that no one feels left behind. “The idea is to make places competitive but fair,” she explains. “Training in mixed ability groups, players will not know which team they will be playing in until match days. It encourages effort both on and off the pitch.” A key area of focus has been improving coaching methods: “In my previous role at the FA, I worked as a coach developer, so I’m really focused on modern coaching practices,” she says. “I’ve tried to shift away from the traditional drills to more dynamic, game-related activities that keep the players engaged and improve their overall skills.” As much as the football programme focuses on performance, there is also a strong emphasis on off-pitch development. Senior first-team players have access to strength and conditioning training, and workshops are planned around key topics like managing nerves in games and balancing sports with academic pressures. “These sessions support players mentally and physically,” she says. “It’s about ensuring that they’re well-rounded individuals, not just good athletes.” Looking ahead, one of Jo’s goals is to bring boys and girls together for joint training sessions. “While they have

separate teams, I think it’s important to blend them more next year,” she reveals. “Some of the girls have expressed an interest in training with the boys, and we want to create opportunities for that.” One initiative that Jo plans is the introduction of Futsal – a Brazilian form of five-a-side football played on a hard court with a smaller, less bouncy ball. “It’s a fantastic way to develop individual skills and ball control,” she notes. “It’s something that’s been hugely successful globally, and we want to bring it to the School next year as an exciting new avenue for the players.” For Jo, it is not just about creating a successful team; it is about creating a programme that reflects the passion and commitment of the pupils. “What makes football at Charterhouse special is the sheer number of pupils involved and how much they genuinely love the game,” she says. “Some of them live and breathe football, and that is what makes it so rewarding. This is their programme, and we are here to make sure they have every opportunity to thrive.” Whether it is inspiring healthy competition or encouraging personal development, the future of football at Charterhouse looks bright. 37

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Setting the Foundations for Future Success By Sam Cooke

Assistant Head (Under School)

In an ever-evolving world shaped by technological advancements and societal changes, equipping pupils with transferable skills is more critical than ever. Charterhouse’s FutureU programme embodies this forward-thinking approach by offering a dynamic and layered curriculum designed to develop essential skills, foster adaptability and inspire innovation.

The programme ensures that pupils are not only academically prepared but also future-ready. It is built around five foundational pillars: Transferable Skills, Life Hacks, Entrepreneurial Mindset, the World of Work and Personal Brand Development. The thoughtfully structured curriculum progressively builds these elements throughout the School years.

Personal Brand Development:

World of Work:

Pupils reflect on their strengths and weaknesses while gaining insights into how their temperaments impact life and study. By using the Colour-Me Psychometric Test, pupils gain an insight into their own characters, which is then developed through sessions working on teamwork, self-awareness, handling conflict and effective communication.

Pupils develop basic financial skills such as budgeting and explore critical thinking and problem-solving. They also gain insights into leveraging social media for monetary gain.

The FutureU journey begins in the Fourth Form, where all pupils participate in a carousel curriculum consisting of five six-week units. Each unit focuses on one of the five pillars.

Life Hacks:

Pupils engage with AI technology, understanding its potential and its limitations. They learn how to harness technology responsibly and effectively, as well as vital digital skills for personal organisation and productivity to aid their journey through School.

Transferable Skills: Lessons cover psychological concepts that impact mindset and interpersonal relationships, including personality, conformity and neuroscience for effective learning.

Entrepreneurial Mindset: Pupils are introduced to design thinking, business planning, value propositions and social enterprise concepts.

These early lessons foster self-awareness, communication and collaboration; essential skills for both academic and professional success. As pupils progress through the programme, these concepts are revisited and expanded to encourage continuous growth and self-improvement. In the Remove, creativity meets purpose in the FutureU Social Enterprise initiative, a hands-on project that transforms ideas into impactful actions. Pupils repurpose recycled School plastic waste, breathing new life into materials by crafting products such as sunglasses, combs and jewellery. The School buzzes with activity as teams brainstorm innovative designs, sketch prototypes and experiment with sustainable production techniques. However, it does not stop at creation. Pupils dive headfirst into the business world, crafting detailed plans, forecasting budgets and building sleek, functional websites. Marketing flair takes centre stage as they develop imaginative advertising campaigns to present their products. The excitement peaks during “Investor Pitch Day,” where pupils step into the shoes of budding entrepreneurs, showcasing their ideas to a panel of judges. The reward? Real-world experience in market research, product design and business operations – and the satisfaction of knowing all profits are donated to local charities. This initiative not only encourages entrepreneurial spirit but also instils a sense of social responsibility, equipping pupils with the tools to make a tangible difference in their communities.

Pupils bringing innovation to life as they craft recycled products for their social enterprise business

Beyond the classroom, FutureU Days ignite a spirit of discovery and growth, offering pupils the chance to develop invaluable skills with guidance from external experts. These immersive events create a vibrant learning environment tailored to each year group’s needs and aspirations. In the Fourth Form, workshops dive into understanding and using technology, developing emotional self-regulation, building personal brands and mastering effective communication. For the Removes, creativity becomes the main focus as pupils tackle challenges like the engaging “Marshmallow Tower.” Through teamwork and brand management exercises, they sharpen their collaborative and problem-solving abilities in a fun, dynamic setting. As Fifths prepare for their GCSEs, study skills workshops empower them to optimise academic performance. Postexams, the focus shifts to practical experiences: pupils embark on work placements, gaining at least three days of hands-on insight into the professional world. They also embrace essential life skill courses, from cooking up a storm in the kitchen to achieving lifeguarding and first-aid certifications. By blending expert guidance, practical experiences and enriching activities, FutureU Days energise pupils to explore their potential and thrive in every aspect of their journey. 39

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“ I’ve really enjoyed exploring what it takes to run a business on a deeper level than I ever have before. I’ve learned that running a successful business isn’t just about selling products, it’s about understanding every aspect, from planning and strategy to teamwork and problem-solving. What’s made the experience even better is working in The Hub rather than a hashroom. The hands-on, collaborative environment has been so much more fun and engaging. It’s a space that makes the learning feel real and exciting.” Pupil (Remove)

Transferable skills lie at the heart of the FutureU curriculum. The programme emphasises ten core competencies, including adaptability, communication, critical thinking and digital literacy. By mastering these skills, pupils gain the confidence to navigate various challenges and opportunities, regardless of their future career paths. Courses like Life Hacks exemplify this approach. Pupils learn time management, stress management and effective digital communication. They also explore the ethical use of AI and practical applications of generative AI technology, positioning themselves as adaptable and informed learners. Charterhouse’s unwavering commitment to shaping a future-ready generation is evident in the continuous evolution of the pioneering FutureU programme. By embedding transferable skills, adaptability and innovation into the School’s DNA, pupils are empowered to navigate and excel in the complexities of an ever-changing world. Through a curriculum that spans year groups, focuses on real-world applications and nurtures both personal and professional growth, FutureU does more than prepare pupils – it empowers them. Pupils emerge not just as academically accomplished individuals but as dynamic thinkers, resilient problem-solvers and socially conscious leaders ready to create meaningful change. This forward-looking approach ensures that Charterhouse pupils rank among the most future-ready young people in the UK, equipped with essential skills and experiences tailored to the challenges of tomorrow’s world. FutureU is not just a programme; it is a launchpad for a generation poised to embrace tomorrow with courage and confidence. 40

“ Years of experience in careers education have shown me the transformative impact of integrating the FutureU programme into the Under School. By offering structured, stage-appropriate activities, we equip pupils with vital skills and knowledge, preparing them to emerge future-ready and to thrive beyond School.” James Hazeldine Futures Advisor

“ I have thoroughly enjoyed FutureU this year. I feel it has given me extremely useful insight into the workplace. I was really interested in learning about building a team to the best of its abilities based on people’s personality types!” Pupil (Remove)

Deaths notified since 2024 With sadness, Charterhouse reports the passing of the following Old Carthusians, notified since March 2024. OCs are listed chronologically according to their year of leaving. 1930s W36

PERKINS, Harry aged 80 on 20 July 1999

1940s B41 W42 D42 g43 R46 B47 D47 R47 R48 D49 B49

GIRI, George aged 98 in March 2022 RYKWERT, Joseph aged 98 on 17 October 2024 WILSON, Brian aged 99 on 22 May 2024 BLAMPIED, Peter aged 99 on 20 December 2024 POPPLEWELL, Oliver aged 96 on 6 June 2024 CHALKLEY, David aged 95 on 1 May 2024 GEMMEL, Henry aged 95 on 15 December 2024 RALLING, Antony aged 95 on 23 July 2024 KIMMINS, Simon aged 94 on 1 February 2025 EDWARDS, Colin aged 92 on 30 October 2024 PHILLIPS, John aged 93 on 27 July 2024

1950s P50 G51 W51 G51 W51 R51 L51 S51 V51 B52 W52 R52 P52 g53 L53 R54 B54 V54 S54 L54 L54 H54 W54 P55 S55 V56 B56 R56 D56 R57 D57 V57 g58

MICHELSEN, John aged 89 on 13 December 2022 BARCLAY, Anthony aged 91 on 15 October 2024 BEAUMONT, Michael aged 90 on 4 May 2024 CLAPPERTON, Alexander aged 89 on 31 May 2024 FURNESS, Stephen aged 91 on 16 November 2024 GOWDEY, Michael aged 91 on 23 January 2024 MONNINGTON, John aged 90 on 11 November 2024 YANNAGHAS, John aged 88 on 7 January 2021 YOUNG, Martin aged 86 in April 2020 CUPITT, Don aged 90 in January 2025 SCOTT-RAM, James aged 83 on 24 May 2017 SNOWBALL, Ian aged 90 in 2024 TILNEY, Colin aged 91 on 17 December 2024 SCOTT, Walter aged 87 in October 2022 WALKER, Hamish aged 89 on 7 June 2024 BUTTERWORTH, Nigel aged 88 on 19 October 2024 HARFIELD, Toby aged 84 on 24 March 2023 JARVIS, Barry aged 88 in November 2024 MARTINEAU, David aged 88 in October 2024 NAUNTON, Robert aged 86 on 31 August 2023 THORNTON, Timothy aged 88 on 28 April 2024 TORTISE, Guy aged 87 on 11 March 2024 TRACEY, Andrew aged 87 on 12 January 2024 ROWE, Nicholas aged 87 on 25 March 2025 SLATER, Michael aged 87 on 26 September 2024 CLEGG, Richard aged 86 on 7 August 2024 FISHER, James aged 86 on 22 September 2024 FISHER, Robert aged 86 in September 2024 JACOBS, Nicholas aged 85 on 2 April 2024 BALL, Anthony aged 84 on 23 June 2024 COPELAND, Derek aged 86 in December 2024 HERBERT, Paul aged 85 on 5 June 2024 PEARD, Robin aged 84 on 12 April 2024

B58 D58 S58 L59 B59 B59 W59 g59

POWELL, Hugo aged 79 on 1 December 2024 SWIFT, Jeremy aged 85 on 22 December 2024 THAM, Sebastian aged 83 in 2024 JAKOBSON, Peter aged 82 on 12 May 2023 KENYON, Nigel aged 83 on 27 December 2024 LAMAISON, Peter aged 83 on 5 October 2024 LEENEY, Timothy aged 83 on 28 December 2024 SANDYS-LUMSDAINE, Nigel aged 78 on 31 July 2020

1960s W60 L62 S62 R63 L63 R63 g65 P66 W66 P68 W69

COULSON, Peter aged 82 on 1 November 2024 COOK, James aged 81 on 27 July 2024 WALKER-HAWORTH, John aged 80 on 19 December 2024 FRANCIS, Robin aged 78 on 14 May 2024 GIBSON, Brian aged 79 on 27 August 2024 HYMAN, Timothy aged 78 on 6 September 2024 HAMBER, John aged 76 on 23 December 2022 GRAY, William aged 75 on 13 October 2024 MACPHAIL, Richard aged 73 on 27 August 2024 SHERIDAN, Robert aged 71 on 17 July 2022 DEAKIN, Edward aged 72 in November 2024

1970s V70 V70 R71 R71 P79

RIVINGTON, Christopher aged 71 on 25 April 2024 STOCKLEY, William aged 72 on 31 July 2024 BARNEY, Tim aged 69 in 2024 FOTHERINGHAM, David aged 71 on 20 December 2024 SHAW, Verity aged 63 on 19 February 2025

1980s D80

GRACEY, Simon aged 61 on 1 January 2024

1990s B98

MURIEL, Alastair aged 44 in 2024

Brooke Hall BH81-16 HARKER, Stephan aged 77 on 1 August 2024 BH61-68 HUSKINS, John aged 87 on 28 May 2024

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A Life Remembered: Stephan Harker

Taken from an address given by the Revd. Chris O’Neill (CJBON)

At Charterhouse, Stephan and I were ‘new boys’ together as chaplains. The pupils and the staff had low expectations of their chaplains, and scant regard for religion in general. The situation was hardly helped by an unpropitious start. On one of our earliest Sundays together, we inherited from our predecessor a seemingly innocuous preacher from the so-called Mission to Schools.

Rev Stephan Harker next to Rev Clive Case

Leslie Leppard – years later the name could still bring us out in a cold sweat – had a style of oratory that would have made Hitler’s Nuremburg Rallies seem wimpish. The boys endured his harangue politely for nearly a quarter of an hour before the coughing, and then the stamping, began. As the protests rose thunderously in volume, the loathsome Leppard rode the roars of protest like waves of adulation. After twenty-eight minutes, he – and we – were thoroughly hated, since the boys (entirely unjustly) blamed us for inviting him. The next term began with a different type of disaster. Stephan had liturgical interests, and loved to draw on the Church’s ancient traditions in imaginative ways. So he decided to enliven our first Evensong in January with a service revolving around Epiphany and Candlemas themes of “light in the darkness”. Just before the service, Stephan handed me a piece of paper, and told me to step forward and read the instructions to the expectant teenage congregation. I quailed when I saw what he had written. Nevertheless, I stepped forward and read: “In a few moments, all the lights in Chapel will be extinguished”. An unpleasant communal snicker ran around the building, Stephan cut the lights, complete darkness fell – and the mayhem began. Boys swapped seats and changed sides. Hymn-books flew through the darkness; one hit the Head Master. There were whoops, screams and cries of “Get your hand off my leg”. When the lights came back on, the boys were sitting in apparent angelic immobility, but the Chapel floor, littered with books, service papers and the remains of some underwear, was testimony to devilry in the dark.

For more than thirty-five years, Father Stephan endeavoured to make this wilderness blossom. When he arrived, Chapel was a drab and soulless building, living up to the jibe that it was the largest listed Zeppelin hangar in the south of England. Father Stephan brought the colour and ritual of a more Catholic spirituality and liturgy to its services. Vestments, candles and incense became a regular feature of Eucharistic worship, and morning chapels (formerly hymn sandwiches with scant fillings), became, through his wide-ranging talks, banquets for daily reflection, in which a profound theological mind was brought to bear on anything from Biblical texts and Russian novels, to his own experiences on “Yearlings” expeditions. For depth and originality, it is hard to imagine that the daily diet of intelligent theological and spiritual reflection he introduced was bettered anywhere in the Anglican Communion. Colleagues disposed to patronise their chaplains found themselves in for a surprise when they encountered Stephan’s formidably well-informed analytical intellect. He did not suffer fools gladly, and part of Stephan’s secular mission at Charterhouse was evidently to save its many fools from their folly. In pursuit of this mission, Stephan developed his unblinking and unhesitating penchant for correcting people. In matters of fact and logic, he would correct colleagues, headmasters, bishops and Oxford professors as easily as his youngest pupils. “I think you’ll find that…” and “You’re quite wrong” would become phrases universally associated with Stephan. We grew to expect and love his corrections. Though many tried, few could catch him out. Nor, as some colleagues felt, was Stephan necessarily being arrogant in his “you’re-quite-wrong” corrections. Indeed, they may have been signal indicators of humility. Stephan’s strengths were many, but they did not lie in what modern educationalists call “classroom management”, nor what the more old-fashioned simply called “discipline”. Pupils commonly added zest to Stephan’s lessons by adding a variety of irregular locomotions whilst his back was turned. Some would surreptitiously change places. Others might move the desks. The most gymnastic attempted radical defenestration, leaving the room via a window. They thought he didn’t notice;

OC Reflections “ Rev’s impact on my life, and my brother’s, cannot be overstated. He encouraged his pupils to think beyond any syllabus, to play with ideas and love learning. Whilst we will never reach his levels of intellect, he inspired a Sisyphean effort... to try.” George Lawson (g13)

“ We knew Stephan well and he was a valuable House Tutor and a good friend. His daily ‘messages’ from the pulpit were challenging and our Duckites shared their interests with him in House.” Malcolm Bailey (BH 1974-2013)

“ He was unwaveringly kind, patient (though I did break through that occasionally, and to spectacular effect) and unswerving in his efforts to give me the education my parents had paid for, but I was refusing to swallow.” Twysden Moore (G89)

but of course, THEY WERE QUITE WRONG – as a future Chancellor of the Exchequer discovered when Stephan put him in Detention. It was, amazingly, an affectionate kind of anarchy; the same miscreants who so often played trains in class were the first to queue up for his blessing before sporting events or exams. Many wanted simply to hug him. Stephan’s talents were many and various. His biblical knowledge was scholarly, spiritual and profound. He was an able scientist and taught Physics and Chemistry to the Fourth Form for 15 years. He had played the violin, the organ and loved Mozart. He ran the School Chess and Astronomy Societies, and was Cellarer to the Sixth Form Club, expertly conditioning all their new firkins of Real Ale. Though latterly seen as a slow-moving object whose chief form of exercise was attending fine wine dinners, in his earlier days Stephan helped with the School Scouts. He went on many expeditions and on twenty years of annual Scout camps in Wales. He also joined several School expeditions to more exotic destinations: Kashmir and Ladakh, Israel (twice) and Turkey. Though very smart on formal occasions, his classroom garb evoked the timehonoured traditional shabbiness beloved of schoolmasters. In the 40 years I knew him, it was believed (probably quite wrongly) that he had

only changed his jacket twice. Nevertheless, he made at least three bold concessions to arrestingly colourful dress. The first was his passion for gaudy picture ties featuring cartoon characters. The second was Stephan’s enjoyment of dressing up in High Church vestments – he made three High Mass sets himself, which were eloquent testimony to his skill with a needle. Thirdly, Stephan sometimes sported gorgeous embroidered waist-coats, which were a honey-trap for the unwary. “I do like your waistcoat” complimenting colleagues and strangers would say, only to find their well-meant praise rebuffed by a quintessentially Stephan-ish “you’re-quite-wrong” correction; “It’s pronounced weskit” (as indeed it is; they were QUITE WRONG). Stephan was constitutionally incapable of taking on airs and graces; what you saw was much less than what you got, and more fool you if you didn’t take the trouble to discern what riches lay beneath his taciturnity and air of gaudy shabbiness. Beneath the reserve, intellectual sharpness and physical bulk, Stephan, too, was not only a fundamentally humble man, but also – often in hidden ways – a very kind one. He has been an inspiring colleague, priest and teacher, a constant source of intellectual stimulation and a good friend, not only to me, but to many.

This is a shortened version of an address given by the Revd. Chris O’Neill (CJBON) at the funeral of the Revd. Stephan Harker (SJH Charterhouse Chaplain 1981-2016). The full address is available at charterhouse.org.uk/foundation/obituaries 43

We are delighted to remind you of the fantastic OC-led Clubs and Societies available to both OCs and parents. Discover some of the wonderful opportunities to connect and get involved below.

• Charterhouse Art Network (CAN) • The Carthusian Society • OC Basketball • OC Badminton • OC City Association • OC Cricket • OC Cross Country • OC Deo Dante Dedi Lodge • OC Fencing • OC Fives • OC Football • OC Golf • OC Hong Kong City Association • OC Lawn Tennis • OC Music • OC Real Tennis • OC Rifle • OC Swimming & Water Polo • OC Yacht If you would like more information, please contact the Foundation Office at foundation@charterhouse.org.uk

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