The Old
WACONIAN 46
Edition
5 21
Meet Neil Smith
24
Food Glorious Food
Introducing our new Head
Change The Face of Careers at CHS Get involved with our Sixth Form Pathways
School dinners revisited
CHS: past and present 2018
Letters to the Editor Boarders’ Reunion and Old Wacs’ Summer Lunch “A quick, and rather belated note to thank you and the other organisers for a most enjoyable and successful weekend. Everything went very well and it stretched my memory a lot to remember the names of the people I met.” Trevor Flanagan, Class of 1956
“Thank you. It was great to meet up with my old ‘Brothers and Sisters’ of the boarding house.” Andy Wright, Class of 1969
“Thank you for a lovely gathering last Sat for the OWA. Lovely meal and lovely to catch up with old friends.”
“The whole weekend was a wonderful experience for us all and no excuse was necessary for pure nostalgia and revived memories of our young days. We were able to reflect on what Chints had meant for us and remember those no longer with us.”
Gill Freeman, Class of 1965
Cathy Oldham, Class of 1968
Class of ‘68
The Old WACONIAN 02 / Letters To The Editor
Contents 4 / Welcome 5 / Meet Neil Smith 6 / Delve into the Archives 7/ M eet Head Girl, Lily, and her Old Waconian Great Grandma, Millie 8 / School News 10 / F ocus On Mrs Hoverstadt 11 / O ld Waconian News and Awards 5 / Meet Neil Smith
6 / School News
14 / O ld Waconian Events 17 / D ates for Your Diary 18 / A trip down MUN lane 20 / V iewpoint: Europe’s Refugee and Migration Crisis 21 / OWs Helping to Change The Face of Careers at CHS
16 / A Trip Down MUN Lane
18 / Viewpoint
24 / F ood Glorious Food 26 / F rom PhD to Professor: Meet the Old Wacs Who Still Love Learning 28 / T hanking our OW Supporters 30 / Fondly Remembered
21 / OWs Helping to Change The Face of Careers at CHS
31 / CHS Shop
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The Old WACONIAN 03 / Contents
Welcome.
Meet...
From the Editor... Welcome to the 2018 edition of the Old Waconian, which comes to you slightly earlier in the year. We’ve changed the timing of this annual publication to coincide with the start of the new academic year and the arrival of our new Head, Neil Smith. In this edition we say a fond farewell to retired Chemistry teacher and Head of Careers, Ali Hoverstadt who left CHS in July after 37 years of service and hear from current Head Girl, Lily Danson, and her great-grandma, Old Waconian Millie Blower, who left CHS over 80 years ago. We also look at how Old Waconians are helping to shape our careers provision for current students. If you can help us by giving a talk, mentoring a 6th Form student or offer a work experience placement then please do get in touch. We are thrilled to announce that Katie Derham, Class of 1988, will be taking over the role of President of the OWA in
Neil Smith January 2019. My personal thanks go to Karim Khalil who will step down from the role of President in January and to Cathy Beavis, who stepped down from the Alumni Board in June, for providing support and guidance. Finally we would be really grateful if you would take the time to complete the enclosed questionnaire and return to us by post or email. Your input will help us continue to shape and enhance our alumni programme for all Old Waconians across the ages. Happy reading and hope to see you at an event in the not too distant future. Fran Kennedy P.S. We want to hear from you about your memories of the iconic Main Building as we gear up to mark its 150th anniversary in 2019. We’ve found some fabulous photos from our archives and hope you will share some of yours with us over the course of the year.
We care about your privacy and respect your wishes. We want you to love reading everything that we send you. So if you want to receive more or less from us remember you can easily update your communication preferences at any time. Simply email er@chschool.co.uk or give us a call on 0161 488 3341. If you would like to read our Privacy Policy in full please go online to www.cheadlehulmeschool.co.uk/privacy. You trust us with your personal data. We take that very seriously and, as the General Data Protection Regulation takes effect, we can assure you we’re doing things properly. Thank you. Charlotte, Your Alumni Relations & Events Manager
The Old WACONIAN 04 / Welcome
Hi! I’m delighted to provide my first introduction to The Old Waconian as Head of Cheadle Hulme School. As some of you will already know, I am already an Old Wac, having previously taught at the School 1996-2002, and am therefore familiar with the growing programme of alumni relations and the School’s strong commitment to reconnecting with its former pupils. In addition, as the parent of a current pupil at the School, I’m also acutely aware of the impact which a CHS education has on young people. As part of my own process of reconnecting with the School, I look forward to meeting as many OWs as I can, and listening to your ideas on how best we can keep strengthening the alumni network for the benefit of the whole School community. I’ve already been hugely impressed by all that I have heard so far about the impact OWs have on the School whether through mentoring young OWs, giving talks to current pupils about their careers or areas of expertise or supporting the School through the Bursary Fund; enabling the School to continue its tradition of opening up opportunities to attend CHS to those who wouldn’t ordinarily have the opportunity to do so. This academic year brings with it a highly significant anniversary as we will be marking 150 years since the School moved to its current, hugely impressive, site. Understanding the foundation and history of the School is an essential feature of the CHS education, providing as it does a reminder not only of the School’s journey but also the significance of altruism in its development. We will, of course, keep all OWs updated on the events being lined up to mark this important anniversary, and how they can get involved. Over the course of the last two years, Karim Khalil QC has done a terrific job as President of the OWA, and I would like to thank him for his efforts. I’m delighted that Katie Derham has agreed to assume the presidency for 2019/20, and I very much look forward to working with her during her time in this role. I hope that you enjoy the magazine and look forward to meeting you soon. Neil Smith, Head
Background Neil brings a wealth of experience to the role. Formerly Deputy Head (Academic) at The Manchester Grammar School, he was promoted internally from earlier roles as Assistant Head (CPD) and as Head of History. Prior to working at MGS, he was Head of Politics at Cheadle Hulme School, as well as teaching History and being Head of Year 12. Before that he taught History and Politics at Leeds Grammar School. Neil’s other experience includes being an ISI Inspector and a Governor at two schools: a secondary Academy in east Manchester and an infant school in Cheadle Hulme. He has authored several educational and history books, served as an educational consultant for the BBC, and is a senior examiner for History A Level. Neil lives locally and he has three daughters who attend Cheadle Hulme School. He is therefore familiar with the significant developments and progress made by the School in recent years.
The Old WACONIAN 05 / Meet Neil Smith
Delve Into The Archives 2019 will be the 150th year that Waconians have been educated in the “main building” of Cheadle Hulme School. As we start to think about this special anniversary we take a look at the School’s archive to find out more find out more about the history of our iconic School building. 1855
1869
1884
1903
The “Manchester Warehousemen and Clerks’ Orphan Schools” were founded.
The building was officially opened by the Earl and Countess of Ellesmere. Fifty pupils moved from the School’s existing premises in Ardwick.
With the appointment of Mr George Board as headmaster the building programme continued apace. The dining hall and laundry were enlarged, and rooms for a workshop and school of cookery were constructed.
Following the demolition of the Infirmary, the Manassah Gledhill wing was built and housed girls’ dormitories, a girls’ playroom and a new infirmary.
1865 The Executive Committee decided that it was desirable to move the School into its own premises. About 5 acres of land were bought from a Mr. Storey in Cheadle Hulme at a cost of £300 per acre. 2nd August 1867 The Foundation Stone of the new building was laid.
1870-77 The dining hall was extended, and a swimming bath, wash house and laundry were built. Extra dormitories were created and an infirmary was added in a separate house. Despite this continued building, in 1877 the building was declared full!
1899 The John Rylands wing was added to create space for a boys’ playroom and extra dormitories.
1999 The rear of the building was transformed by the addition of a glass atrium, completed in 1999.
Building with John Rylands and Manassah Gledhill wings
Which 3 book characters would you invite into CHS and why? Starr Carter from the The Hate U Give to inspire bravery. Iorek Brynison from The Northern Lights to remind students that you can come back fighting after making mistakes. The Weasley twins from The Harry Potter series for an excellent firework display. From this year Heather is taking over the ropes of the School’s Archive too.
like the ‘smaller’ histories we have. I love reading through admissions logs, of pupils admitted to the School, right from the early days. I love noticing how the name trends change, what mothers and fathers would do for a living, how many children people would have, and what their income was. It brings these people to life again.
What are you looking forward to most about working with the archive?
Meet Our New Librarian and Archivist, Heather Procter Heather joined CHS in September 2017. She has spent her first year focusing on getting to grips with the library and working closely with our students.
Helping to link old Wacs, or their descendants, with more information about their past and connection to the School. It’s really satisfying and worthwhile to help people to fill the gaps in their family history, and the gratitude you receive from the families is wonderful. So far what’s the best item you’ve come across in the archive and why? We have some wonderful historical items in the archive – but honestly I
The Old WACONIAN 06 / From 80 Years Ago to Today
Join The Conversation What are your memories of living or working in the Main Building? Help us celebrate the history of this special place by sending your memories or photos into the School. Please email memories or photos to: er@chschool.co.uk or send them by post to the School address c/o Charlotte Aspin.
Meet Head Girl, Lily, and her Old Waconian Great Grandma, Millie Head Girl, Lily Danson, interviews her great grandma Millie Blower, Class of 1938, finding out just what has changed at CHS over the last 80 years. Can you remember your first day at CHS? I don’t really remember my first day but it was all very strange until you got to know people. As well as our usual lessons we can get involved in co-curricular activities. For example, I really love Go club. I attend every week and travel all over the country to play tournaments. What sort of activities did you do alongside lessons? Hockey and netball; that was all we had in our day. The boys were allowed to travel to cricket matches. Other than that you were stuck in School. We went abroad once when we went to France. There was an exposition in Paris that we went to look at then we went down to stay at a girls’ school. I can’t remember where exactly but it was very near to where the government used to stay. There were about 30 of us who went with a couple of masters including Mr Hoy, a language master. Our lunches are not just your average school dinners but are really good quality with lots of variety. My favourite food to eat at lunch is the tofu katsu curry as I’ve just gone vegetarian, and the veggie burgers are really tasty too. What were school dinners like when you were here? Our food used to be awful. I think if you saw a sausage you only saw them once a week. I remember great big dishes with lemon tart and rice pudding. We had some awful stuff, not like you have today! Talking about being a vegetarian my father was a very strict vegetarian. He was chairman of the Vegetarian Society for over 25 years which started in Manchester.
Since I’ve been at CHS I’ve seen quite a lot of change with the building of the Sports’ Pavilion and the renovation of Holden Hall. What is the most significant difference in how the School is now? It’s very different. It wasn’t as up to date as it is now although I guess it was up to date for the time! They’ve probably got more tennis courts now, we had about one netball court. Last year you came back to the School for our Senior Citizen’s Afternoon Tea along with other members of the local community. This initiative was started by my predecessor Jess Appleby, Class of 2018. Would you recommend the event to others? I enjoyed it but it was a bit sad as Jimmy wasn’t with me. He was popular at school as he was a boarder. My favourite memory of being at CHS so far has been the weekend that I went away with the School Council. What are your memories of your time at school? I enjoyed school and I was always happy there. Maths was the only subject I didn’t like as I couldn’t do it - not like you, you must have got that from your Dad! I liked English and was always top of the class with Mr Baker, or Gumps as we used to call him. I also liked Languages, Geography, History and Domestic Science where you learned to cook. For Heritage Day this year we have focused on life at CHS during wartime. What do you remember from this time? The war mucked everything up really. Quite a lot of the boys and girls from my crowd were killed, including two or three boys from my class. Along with some of the masters too.
I’m on the Equality Society at CHS where we try to raise awareness about certain issues and also try and promote things that the School could be doing for equality. For example, we had the uniform rules changed so that instead of a boys’ or girls’ uniform we have a trouser or skirt uniform - I prefer to wear trousers. How was the experience for girls and boys different when you were at School? You couldn’t wear trousers in my day. You had to wear a gymslip until you were older, after that you could wear a blouse and skirt. The boys did certain things differently. They did a lot of joinery with a chappy called Mr Alty, where they were taught to make things. They didn’t have cookery lessons like the girls. They played lacrosse, rugby and cricket and went away to matches. The girls didn’t get to go away. Next year I’ll be an Old Waconian too. What have I got to look forward to about being an Old Wac? You look forward to carrying on the tradition of the school and coming back to see everyone. I come back as often as I can.
The Old WACONIAN 07 / Delve Into the Archives
School News
America Calls After A Level Success
Leadership: What Does It Take?
The Class of 2018 are ready to take the next step towards their chosen careers after achieving an impressive 99.2% pass rate at A Level.
OW Mark Whelan, Class of 1985, was joined by parents, Jennie Johnson MBE and Michael Vaughan OBE, to discuss what it takes to be a leader across three different industries: creative marketing, childcare and cricket.
For three of our Old Wacs this involves a move overseas. Bel Wardle to a golf scholarship at UCLA, Hannah McColgan to a tennis scholarship at Northwestern, and Rahin Kumar to the big apple to study Liberal Arts at NYU.
TeamCHS Wins The Corporate Challenge At The Wilmslow Half After the March race was cancelled due to heavy snow TeamCHS were not put off. 26 runners took part in a very warm Wilmslow Half Marathon in June winning the race’s first Corporate Challenge and raising over £3000 for the Teenage Cancer Trust. 5 OWs represented the alumni community. Thank you to David Jackson (Class of 1982), Neil Meehan (Class of 2001), Amanda Newman (Class of 1992), Tim Smith (Class of 1993) and Peter Walters (Class of 1974).
The Old WACONIAN 08 / School News
From sleepless nights to having a clear vision, one thing that all of them agreed on was the importance of being surrounded by the right people.
Swimmers Take On The Cheadle Channel Challenge CHS swimmers took to the water and raised more than £3247 for local charity, LevelWater, when they swam further than the length of The English Channel in the School’s swimming pool overnight. Challenged to swim 21 miles – the shortest distance of The Channel - four teams of 9 swimmers completed the distance in the small hours of the morning before continuing to see how much further they could swim back again!
A Football Final First Physical and mental strength took CHS’s U15 footballers to the ISFA National Cup Finals. The first time CHS has ever reached a National final in football across all age groups, the team put in a fantastic performance to win their Semi-final against Ardlingly College, narrowly missing out to Aldenham School on Final Day at the Pirelli Stadium.
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Pre-school Now Open This September our pre-school is opening its doors, expanding the CHS family to include 3-4 year olds. This has been in response to interest from existing parents and we’re thrilled to be able to support this need. In addition our Play and Learn fund is helping to support projects identified by our pupils and staff to further learning opportunities and enhance the School experience for our Infant and Junior pupils. From denbuilding kits to a full outdoor play area you can find out more about the projects supported by this fund at www. cheadlehulmeschool.co.uk/chs-life/play-learn-fund-2018
Students and Staff Make Pledge For Change With Interactive Holocaust Experience 1000 paper cranes and 1000 paper butterflies created a unique art installation as part of CHS’s moving tribute to those who lost their lives during the Holocaust.
Waconians’ Art On Display Artwork from CHS’s students and young Old Wacs will be on display at Manchester Art Fair (formerly Buy Art Fair) from 12-14 October 2018. OWs are eligible for free tickets for the VIP preview evening on the Friday or full weekend tickets. Contact us on er@chschool.co.uk to find out how to claim yours.
‘Metamorphosis’ saw nearly 100 visitors attend the interactive art exhibition, which included an uplifting performance by The Menorah Synagogue Choir, insightful presentations by CHS’s History and Politics students, an Anne Frank exhibition, and testimonials from Holocaust survivors, Ruth and Werner Lachs. The butterflies signified hope, change, endurance and life and contained student pledges for change. Messages of remembrance were written on luggage tags attached to the cranes. Mirroring the Japanese legend the aim of the exhibition was to fold enough cranes to earn a whole School wish; that no such atrocity will ever happen again and mankind will learn to tolerate and celebrate the diversity of the human race. gfgfgf
Royal Academy Selection Finn Johnson, Class of 2018, has also been selected to exhibit her artwork in the Royal Academy A Level Online exhibition. This is a prestigious event and summarises the success that Finn has had this year alongside her offer to study Art at Central St Martins, London.
The Old WACONIAN 09 / School News
Focus On
Mrs Hoverstadt After 37 years Ali Hoverstadt becomes one of our newest Old Waconians as she retires from teaching at CHS. We asked Ali about how School has changed over this time and what her plans are next. When did you start at CHS? In 1981. It was my first (and last) teaching placement. I remember the first time I entered the Staff room and thinking what a strange place this School was to allow students in there. I soon came to realise that the person I thought was a student was just a young-looking John le Grove!
Did you always want to be a teacher? No, I did a Chemistry degree and then a Masters in Science and Society as I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do after university. The only thing I knew was that I wanted to be in a job where I interacted with people. Research didn’t appeal to me as there wasn’t enough of a community feel to it. Growing up I lacked female role models who were working in a profession. The exception was my eldest cousin who was a primary school teacher and my aunty suggested that I should try teaching. The thought of standing up in front of lots of kids terrified me but I started my PGCE course and loved every minute of it. If there are any Old Waconians who are considering a career in teaching I would say go for it! What roles have you had at CHS? I started as a chemistry teacher and in my first year taught more chemistry classes than anyone else. After a few years Frank Wetton asked if I would like to be involved with careers, and on The Old WACONIAN 10 / Focus On - Mrs Hoverstadt
his retirement I took over as Head of Careers. At the time it was combined with the Head of PSHE role which I loved. When PSHE and Careers support both needed to be expanded I stayed with my Head of Careers role, so have supported our students’ career ambitions for 25 years.
ready for the next task. I loaded the used burettes into the lift to transport them to the prep room upstairs but nobody told me the lift shaft got narrower the further up it went. An almighty sound of shattered glass followed as every single one of the burettes smashed. Hysterical laughing and crying ensued.
Over the last few decades what have been the most significant changes in:
Which colleagues made your time at CHS extra special over the years?
IT? There used to be a room in the A block that had benches all around the edge with huge computers on that no one knew how to work. Plus a Banda machine that staff would rush to use in the morning - turning it by hand to make copies of worksheets. It used meths so it gave us a bit of a hit!
When I started I was the youngest member of staff by 9 years. Maggie Evans, Pat Ball and Lynda Parkin took me under their wings and made me feel at home. Mike Davies, my first Head of Department, was the kindest, most generous and definitely most energetic man. While Pete Northfield, a fellow chemistry teacher, was super organised - useful for borrowing ideas and worksheets from in my NQT year! Two colleagues that became my female role models were Liz Passmore (Head of Biology) and Joy Pilkington (Senior Mistress). Joy was the most fantastic mentor - kind, caring, and supportive. An unbelievable and often underrated woman.
School dinners? They have always been brilliant. I remember before my interview asking a family friend who was a CHS parent for any hints and tips. All she said was to try the apple crumble as it was fantastic. On the day Mike Davies took me to lunch and luckily it was apple crumble day - it was delicious, and still is. School uniform? In winter the boys could wear black polo necks to keep warm they reminded me of the Milk Tray man! Teaching? The onus has altered as society has changed and children’s attention spans have become shorter. Lessons need to keep children entertained, and teachers guide them to be more responsible for their own learning, rather than giving knowledge. The kids are still fantastic though.
What are your plans for retirement? You’ll find me in my allotment, speaking to my vegetables! I’ll most likely have cycled there and will be quite happy sitting among my veg, doing a crossword and drinking gin. I hope to do something a little more adventurous at some point but after a lifetime of timetables I’m looking forward to not having to live by one.
What are your memories of Science Exhibitions? Exhausting but great fun. One of my resounding memories was a chemistry egg race in front of a room full of parents. Teams of students carried out experiments using glass burettes which we had to continually wash out
With Form in 1985
Old Waconian News
Meet Your New President We were thrilled to announce at the Old Waconians’ Association’s AGM on 23 June 2018 that our OWA President from January 2019 will be Katie Derham, Class of 1988. “I am honoured to take on the role of President and look forward to meeting as many Old Waconians as possible during my tenure. I have very fond memories of my time at School and feel a strong affinity to the place. I see the role as a great opportunity to reconnect Old Waconians with their former school, encourage them to support current students or young Old Waconians who are starting out in their chosen career and inspire some of today’s students too.” Katie left Cheadle Hulme School in 1988 and went on to graduate from Magdalene College, Cambridge, with a BA (Hons) in Economics. Following work experience at the BBC she pursued her passion for radio and, starting as a secretary, worked her way up to researcher on a BBC Radio 4 money programme. BBC5Live saw her move from researcher to producer to presenter but after some work on BBC Breakfast she made the transition to TV, becoming the BBC’s consumer affairs correspondent. Katie moved to ITN as their Media and Arts Editor and later became the main female presenter on the ITV lunchtime news. Returning to the BBC in 2010 her career now focuses around the arts, including presenting the BBC Proms and the Radio 3 drive time show In Tune. You may also have seen her challenging herself as a trainee conductor on Maestro and becoming an accomplished dancer on Strictly Come Dancing. Katie is married to restaurateur John Vincent and has two daughters. At CHS she loved music and still plays her violin today.
Hats Off To Our Old Waconians Enjoying Graduation Success This Year Ross Taylor Class of 2013 Mechanical Engineering, First-Class, Manchester Metropolitan University. Ross spent the beginning of his summer finishing the build of the university’s Formula Student racing car and competing with it at Silverstone. In September he starts work at Engineering Analysis Services Limited (EASL) as a graduate engineer.
Louise Goddard Class of 2015 History, FirstClass, Queen Mary University of London. She is now a project assistant at the National Centre of Universities and Business. She said: “I wouldn’t be where I am without CHS!”
Zack Michael Class of 2014 Product Design, First-Class, Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts London.
Ben Mesrie Class of 2015 Management BSc, First-Class, University of Nottingham.
The Old WACONIAN 11 / Old Waconian News
Old Waconian News The Devil Wears Snow Shoes Paul Ogden, Class of 1983, shares the highs and lows of ultra-marathon racing in the Arctic. Explain the race.
Triathlete Jo Sutton Represents GB Jo Sutton, Class of 2009, took triathlon up 3 years ago after running competitively at School and university. This year she qualified for both the European and World Half Ironman Championships in Ibiza and South Africa respectively. Taking place in September (World’s) and October (Europeans) both races involve a 1.9km swim, 90km bike ride, and 21km run. Jo competes as part of her age group as an amateur athlete for Team GB after success in previous qualification races. All alongside being a fulltime veterinary surgeon!
“It’s called the Rovaniemi 150 and it features a non-stop 150km route just inside the Arctic Circle in Finnish Lapland. It is staged every winter in temperatures that can drop below -30C. There are three categories: runners who drag pulks, crosscountry skiers, and cyclists using special snow-adapted mountain bikes known as “fat-bikes”. I was privileged to be one of 34 people racing on foot, and one of seven Brits in that race.” What were conditions like? “The route takes in a range of landscapes. It starts on a frozen river which makes it easy and fast going. The most beautiful parts of the race are on trails through pine forests with the trees absolutely piled up with powder snow. To add more of a challenge it also makes its way through a couple of sections which are covered in dense and convoluted thickets of trees with deep powder and tree roots everywhere. Indeed one of these is aptly christened the “Pain in the Arse”. The biggest variable isn’t the terrain though; it is the snow conditions. The course is groomed to some extent by the organisers using snowmobiles. Their goal is to produce a surface similar to a skiing piste. Under those conditions it is possible to run in regular trail shoes. Unfortunately this year wind-blown powder snow covered much of the trail and necessitated the use of snow-shoes.
These slow you down a lot and completely change your gait greatly increasing the risk of injury.” What was your lowest point? “After running through the night and spending much longer than I had hoped wearing snow-shoes I was suffering from back spasms and my left ITB (a ligament on the outside of the knee) and hamstring were getting very tight. I was making very slow progress and after a couple more hours I decided to withdraw. I had travelled 103km in just less than 30 hours in temperatures that had dipped below -20C so there was nothing to be ashamed about. Once I’d returned to London I found that I’d suffered 2nd degree frostbite in a bigtoe in large part thanks to the Devil’s favourite winter-sports equipment snow-shoes.” And your highlight? “There is nothing quite like stopping on a remote trail in the early hours of the morning to admire the aurora borealis, or running through a silent snowy wilderness as dawn is breaking.”
Tell us your news Email er@chschool.co.uk with stories and photos today
The Old WACONIAN 12 / Old Waconian News
Old Waconian Awards 2018 The School recognises extraordinary alumni who have gone beyond the call of duty, progressed and excelled in their field or made an outstanding contribution in their chosen career. Distinguished Old Waconian Award
Dr Stephen (Steff) Nash MA, MB, BChir, FCEM CEO, Hope 4 the World, Class of 1970
Steff is a Consultant in Emergency Medicine and served on the Executive Committee of the College of Emergency Medicine of which he was a Founder Member. He chaired the Clinical Effectiveness Committee for 10 years and was involved in developing the quality standards for the speciality. In the last 20 years, whilst always maintaining his clinical commitments in the NHS, he has travelled extensively in North Africa, along the ‘Silk Route’ and in Asia delivering medical training in refugee and relief
Young Alumni Award
Dr Jessica Gray, Class of 2012
Jess has graduated in Medicine from Sheffield University where she has also received a Distinction in a Masters of Research in Translational Oncology and presented her paper at a conference for the British Association of Endocrine and Thyroid Surgeons. In addition to thriving under the demands of a medical degree, she has shown real altruism and dedication when it comes to supporting a wide range of charitable causes. Whether training for a half marathon to raise money for Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice during her final exams, or organising a talk by Professor Steve Peters, the author of the Chimp
situations. This led him to found the charity ‘ Hope 4 the World’ in order to train young people to staff medical clinics in the remote mountainous regions of East Burma (Myanmar). Additionally the charity seeks to meet the similarly urgent needs for training teachers and building primary schools in areas where basic provision for the ethnic minorities is lacking. Steff’s keen motivation is for leadership development and empowering the disadvantaged to transform their society in adverse circumstances. Always interested in sport, Steff played lacrosse for the School, County, Cambridge University and for England. His current hobbies are scuba diving, marathon running and travelling. He is married to Ruth (Class of 1972),has three children and 6 grandchildren.
Paradox, in aid of MIND, she is focused on helping others. She has taught parents first aid as part of the initiative ‘How to save a baby’s life’ and founded the Charity Netball tournament for all abilities which is now held annually. She continues with the ethos of CHS and is an excellent example of an Old Waconian. She is now a doctor in colorectal surgery in Huddersfield. ‘I feel hugely honoured to have been recognised by CHS for my academic efforts as well as my fundraising. It was both surprising and slightly amusing to be awarded for doing what I enjoy and my inability to sit still. My time at CHS gave me some of my fondest memories and I continue to call my fellow Waconians my best friends.’
The Old WACONIAN 13 / Old Waconian Awards 2018
Old Waconian Events Oxbridge Drinks November 2017
Old Waconians came together in London to reminisce about CHS days, and their times in Oxford and Cambridge. Joining the Old Wacs were Head, Lucy Pearson, and OWA President Karim Khalil, QC.
London Pub Quiz February 2018
Well done to Team C-H-Yes! The Old Wacs’ London Pub Quiz champions for 2018. The Water Poet cellar bar was packed as Old Wacs and friends came together to get their grey matter working. Co-hosted by Head, Lucy Pearson, and Nigel Westbrook the questions ranged from very tricky literature to an 80s/90s music round that got everyone singing along.
To see Old Wac event photos visit the Old Wacs’ Facebook page and www.oldwaconiansconnect.com
The Old WACONIAN 14 / Old Waconian Events
Class of 2017 Reunion December 2017
We welcomed the Class of 2017 back to School for their first reunion since leaving CHS. The Upper Sixth Common Room was packed with almost 100 Old Wacs, many sporting festive jumpers.
Manchester Pub Quiz March 2018
Nigel was joined by Steve Burnage to co-host the Manchester quiz which saw 10 teams battling it out for the win. Our champs were “Living la vida loco parentis” from the Class of 2005, with our wooden spoons going to “Biggest brains in the room” a Class of 1980 and 1986 collaboration. Thanks to all who came for a great night!
Old Wacs’ Weekend 2018 Thank you to everyone who came back to School in June. Whether you came to the Boarders’ Reunion at The Hesketh, our netball or football reunions, the OWA’s AGM or the Old Wacs’ Summer Lunch we hope that you had a great time reminiscing. A special thank you to those from our reunion year groups who travelled from far and wide to get back together.
Cathy Beavis Recognised For 24 Years’ Service As Cathy Beavis, Class of 1972, stepped down from the Alumni Board she was officially thanked for her outstanding service to the OWA over 24 years. She has been the Board representative for OWs from the 1970s and the 2010 members, as well as serving as Secretary, vice Chair, and Chair on the previous Committee. Thank you Cathy.
Boarders’ Reunion
Class of ’68
Class of ’78
OWA’s AGM and Old Wacs’ Summer Lunch
Old Wacs’ Netball & Football Match
After a delicious buffet lunch Lucy Pearson delivered her farewell speech, thanking Old Wacs for their contribution to the School during her headship. President of the OWA, Karim Khalil, spoke about Lucy’s achievements as Head and her commitment to the alumni programme, before presenting her with flowers on behalf of the OWA. OWs then toured the School site to reminisce and marvel at what has changed, and what still remains the same.
Calling anniversary year groups! Is 2019 a big anniversary for your year group? OWs from the Classes of 1959, 1969, 1979, 1989, 1999 and 2009 are warmly invited to join us at Reunions in 2019 to celebrate your anniversaries. Please get in touch and we can plan an event especially for your year group: 0161 488 3341 / er@chschool.co.uk.
The Old WACONIAN 15 / Old Waconian Events
Class of 2007 reunion Laura McArthur reviews their 10 year anniversary get together. It’s a testament to both us as Old Wacs and to CHS that nearly 11 years after finishing sixth form a group of us can meet up and happily chat away and banter as if we hadn’t been apart. 12 hours is a long time to spend with people that you haven’t seen for many years, but that is what we did!
comparisons to university colleague’s experiences was the extra-mile taken and the genuine care that our teachers had for us. As we walked around the pavilion 11 years later, we see that is still the same; a teacher coming in on her Saturday to help a student who was struggling with the stress of exams. Only when you step out into the world beyond the redbrick walls do you realise quite how rare that is and how privileged we were.
Our reunion kicked off on Saturday 28th April with a drinks reception in the library and photos in front of the School’s big green door. We all wore our name tags, not that we ended up needing them! Other than some slightly longer or shorter hair everyone looked exactly the same. Nobody was taller; for those who hoped to be, apologies. After hugs, smiles and catching up we went on a tour of the School. As I wandered around I didn’t have to think about where my feet were taking me; we knew exactly where we were going. We paced those paths between lessons for so many years, they are ingrained, and it was as if we hadn’t been away for any time at all. Everyone was intrigued to know what the caretaker’s house and garden looked The Old WACONIAN 16 / Old Waconian Events
like now there is no fence; always such a mystery! And the pavilion... It’s funny that at the time, the girls changing room in the barn, with icy gusts through gaps in the stone and the occasional owl pellet rolling out from under the benches, seemed normal but slightly comical. Yet we reminisced fondly as we looked around
the shiny new building, with spectator balcony and all. One thing we all agreed on was how lucky we were to go to Cheadle. I found I was in the minority when I started university who liked school and had the opportunities there that we did. One of the most obvious
Cheadle was, and clearly still is, a special place, and I look forward to finding out about the adventures and achievements of those I grew up with at the next get-together. Who knows what another 10 years will bring; let’s hope we don’t need the name badges when that day comes around. Somehow, I don’t think we will.
Dates for your diary 2 Nov 2018
5th Dec 2018
An afternoon with Susan Bullock, CBE, CHS
Dave Haslam in conversation with Neil Smith, CHS
Renowned soprano Susan Bullock, Class of 1977, will be returning to CHS to entertain students and guests from 3pm. Places are limited.
Join Head, Neil Smith, for his inaugural Head’s Lecture with DJ, journalist and author Dave Haslam.
9th Nov 2018 Service of Remembrance, CHS Light refreshments will be served from 10.00am before the whole School assembles at the front of the Main Building for our service at 10.45am.
17th Nov 2018 Back to School Dinner, CHS 6pm: Class of 1958 reunion; 6.30pm: Welcome drinks for all Old Wacs; 7pm: Dinner Join us for the Annual Old Wacs’ dinner with a School Dinner theme. Catch up with old friends, hear from our new Head, Mr Neil Smith, and enjoy some after dinner entertainment from John Pickering, Class of 1972, and his band the RetroBeats.
18th Dec 2018 Class of 2018 Reunion, CHS
Serv ice Reme of mbran ce
A festive get together in the Upper Sixth Common Room for our newest Old Waconians.
17th Apr 2019 Old Waconians at Wilton’s Music Hall, London
Back to School Dinner
Our flagship event for Old Waconians hosted by incoming OWA President Katie Derham, Class of 1988.
22nd June 2019 Old Waconians’ Association AGM, CHS
To find out more about any of these events or to register your attendance please call 0161 488 3341 or email er@chschool.co.uk
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reunion
The Old WACONIAN 17 / Dates for your Diary
A Trip Down MUN Lane
Dublin 2005
Outside the classroom, clubs and societies helped shaped the CHS experience for Old Waconians. Here we look back at one of the most popular societies, MUN, which continues to go from strength to strength. We caught up with former staff and students to find out how MUN has changed at CHS over the last 25 years and how its impact reaches far outside the CHS gates.
What is MUN? MUN, or Model United Nations, gives students the opportunity to learn about diplomacy, international relations, and the United Nations. At MUN conferences each delegate joins a committee and represents a specific country to debate key topics which have been researched beforehand. At the end of the conference awards are presented to the bestperforming delegates and delegations. Find out more about MUN at CHS online: http://mun-ch.co.uk/
The Development of MUN at CHS
Croydon 2006
Piers Taylor Class of 2007
1970s 1993 Jane Maher joined CHS’s History department bringing with her knowledge of MUN from Stockport Grammar School. “I started with 2 delegates at the Croydon (Royal Russell) MUN and made a delegation of 4 with another teacher who had left SGS at the same time. The following year I took 18!!” Jane Maher Students started attending conferences including a week long residential to The Hague.
Students attended a one day General Assembly run by Manchester Council
2001 Head, Paul Dixon, agreed to a one day conference being held at CHS. This was the very first MUNCH with Rachel Evans as Secretary General. “I remember committee meetings being held in my house and making everyone chocolate muffins!” Maggie Evans (Rachel’s mum)
2002 2005 MUNCH grew into a 2 day conference. Since then schools have attended from all over the country as well as from the U.S. and Germany.
Maggie Evans joined the committee and took over conference coordination a few years later for MUNCH 5.
2018 This year’s conference will see a Spanish contingent taking part.
The Old WACONIAN 18 / A Trip Down MUN Lane
Barrister in London Secretary General for 2005/2006 conferences
External Affairs Manager at AB InBev in London Part of the group who created the first ever MUNCH
Lucy Hibberd née Minshall Class of 2002 My favourite memory of MUNCH is the opening speeches from each “country”. Teams always tried to be different or funny which made for a great way to kick the MUN’s off. MUN offered me a greater understanding of the world, including countries I had never previously even heard of! When applying for university it certainly helped me to stand out- and you need to be able to!
I fondly remember opening MUNCH in 2006 in the Gym (it had previously been in Holden Hall). This was a huge operation and was achieved by the determination and hard work of Mrs Evans. It meant we could host more delegates and we were proud to have students from Dublin and the USA participating. I credit MUN for getting a 15-year-old me into public speaking: giving me the confidence to speak in front of others, the skills to think on the spot and the ability to think - and argue - critically. It was after I found my feet at MUN that I decided to study law and become a barrister. MUNCH 2007
Project Coordinator at the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) in Brussels Secretary at MUNCH in 2003, Secretary General in 2007
Charlotte Griffiths Class of 2008 MUN was a family addiction for us, even my mum came and helped set up the conferences or delivered snacks to the volunteers in the years we were both involved! My favourite moment was waiting for the Best Delegation announcement at SAIMUN, Dublin, our last conference together. There were very happy, but bittersweet tears when we won. Through MUN I learnt to think beyond my small world, to engage critically with international politics, to consider different perspectives and priorities, to speak publicly and persuasively and, crucially, to think on my feet. MUN inspired me to work internationally in a socially responsible context, and gave me the skills and confidence to make that happen.
Above: Old Wacs at MUNCH’s 10th anniversary Left: MUNCH 2010
Junior Doctor working in the NHS in Plymouth Secretary General of MUNCH 10, Head of Secretariat MUNCH 9 “Watching one of your own delegates take to the floor and speak with knowledge and passion on a topic I often have only the remotest idea about is THE best - I feel like a proud Mum! The personal benefits for students are considerable. For some it has been a revelation of unsuspected abilities, for others it has been a platform and a challenge to develop talents which were already quite obvious. These are what every teacher strives for in our profession.” - Jane Maher
Emma Griffiths Class of 2011 I loved the night before the conference started, when the team who had been working for months organising it had the final push of the physical room set up. Seeing the gym filled with chairs, tables and the country placards was so satisfying. And then we would always order pizzas! MUN helped develop my ability to speak publicly with and without advanced preparation sooner than my peers at university. I’m often required to present medical cases and teach to different group sizes with little notice, and my confidence in public speaking and answering questions has helped with this.
Student Doctor at Bristol Medical School Secretary General of MUNCH 11
Aaron Hewitt Class of 2012 The conferences we attended in Belfast were a fantastic opportunity to opportunity to develop life skills whilst having great fun and epitomised what MUN was about. MUN offered us an opportunity to learn about current global affairs and fostered critical thinking and problem solving in a way that couldn’t be taught in the classroom. You had to listen and empathise with a wide variety of differing views and beliefs. In the same way on a daily basis I interact with patients from all over the world and must be able to understand and appreciate differing cultural and societal beliefs.
“The lovely thing about running MUN is that you have a different relationship with the students. You become someone they’ll come and talk to you about other things as well. And when you’re away at a conference the older ones look after the younger ones. The senior students naturally take on leadership roles.” - Maggie Evans
What are your memories of societies at CHS? Share them with us via the Old Wacs’ Facebook Page.
The Old WACONIAN 19 / A Trip Down MUN Lane
Viewpoint:
Europe’s Refugee and Migration Crisis The 800,000 Following his delivery of the keynote speech at MUNCH 2017 we asked Sam Armfield, Class of 2014, to share his experiences with the Old Waconian community. Love and compassion are necessities to humanity, not luxuries. When we fail in this regard, people suffer. If volunteering in Greece during the refugee crisis taught me anything, it’s that it is far too easy to act in a manner counter to human dignity. Nothing compounds this belief more than the squalid and inhumane conditions in which thousands of vulnerable people are left to rot in. Working with Swedish charity Lighthouse Relief, in the idyllic coastal town of Skala Sikamineas, I was privileged to welcome some of the most incredibly resilient and friendly people I’ve ever met as they arrived in Europe. Residents of Skala opened their homes, businesses and hearts to those who landed, quite literally, on their doorsteps. Industrial glue used to make the dinghies permeates the air surrounding them. Sitting low in the water, these rafts designed for 20 are bursting at the seams with 80 to 100 people. Fake life jackets given to the refugees push the user forward in the water so that the face becomes submerged, taking lives rather than saving them. A sickening irony, only dwarfed by the 300,000 strong life jacket mountain left behind by the roughly 800,000 people who landed on Lesvos. Arriving on land always results in a mixture of celebration and relief, as the majority cannot swim and many have never seen the ocean before. Reaching Europe also strikes up a great feeling
of freedom, having fled war zones, crippling poverty and cruel human traffickers .The resulting conditions that refugees are confined to are akin to a disaster zone that has shown little sign of improvement in 3 years. Refugees are transported from the beaches in prison buses to the ‘reception centre’ - Moria Camp. Moria is a converted prison with a maximum capacity of 3,100 people and an inmate population of 7,403. Including the extremely vulnerable such as unaccompanied minors and people with disabilities who should be accommodated separately. Camps are so dangerously overcrowded that it has become a risk to life, and disease could spread rapidly as a result of poor sanitation and access to clean water. “Strongly tied to this piece is the work of Lord Alfred Dubs, also an Old Wac. Lord Dubs has worked extensively on EU legislation issues and is synonymous with the ‘Dubs Amendment’ (2016) as the Parliamentary sponsor to pass it into law. Personally I am a huge supporter of his work, having met and worked with some of tens of thousands of unaccompanied minors who have come to Europe. Overtly challenging the Government’s avoidance to uphold a legal obligation to protect children, which has continued through to tabling amendments to the Brexit Bill earlier this year. It is because of his work in Parliament that over 200 children at serious risk of exploitation were able to seek refuge in the U.K.”
The Old WACONIAN 20 / Viewpoint: Europe’s Refugee and Migration Crisis
Europe is seen as a model of democracy and freedom yet we have built walls - physical and administrative - to keep those we deem different to us out. Humanity is an issue not defined by membership of the EU, but rather societal attitudes. It is concerning that little has changed in how we treat people fleeing persecution and war. If we are leaving people to drown or rot in frontier camps rather than act humanely, has anything changed since our failures in Bosnia 23 years ago?
Arts port s E lit e S
Old Waconians Helping to Change The Face of Careers at CHS
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Medic a l Sc ie nc e
Ente rpise & Financ e
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As our offering to students adapts find out how you can get involved. Good careers guidance is critical if young people are to raise their aspirations, capitalise on the opportunities available to them and succeed in a competitive world of work. For our incoming Sixth Form students this comes in the form of our new Sixth Form Pathways which, alongside providing academic support, will help Waconians to link their learning to careers, have encounters with employers and employees, and experience workplaces.
Sixth Form Pathways The Pathways aim to meet the needs of students with specific career ambitions. They will be given valuable opportunities to gain skills, knowledge and work experience that is directly linked to their chosen pathway. Each specialised pathway will include an enrichment programme designed specifically to meet each student’s needs. To make this programme as fulfilling as possible we are involving parents and Old Waconians in planning, delivery and monitoring; creating a ‘team’ who will be actively engaging with the students and ensuring that the activities meet their needs.
The Arts
The Arts Pathway is for students who have selected to study one or more creative subjects. Haydn Palmer, Class of 2007, provided a careers profile to encourage students to pursue drama, “My teachers nurtured my interest in theatre, making me seriously consider it as a vocation. They were always encouraging and supportive of my writing and set me on the path towards a career in TV and theatre production.”
The Old WACONIAN 21 / Old Waconians Helping to Change The Face of Careers at CHS
Enterprise & Finance
The Enterprise and Finance Pathway is suited to students who wish to follow careers in a wide range of commercial fields including accountancy, banking, investment and management consultancy. It will also be appropriate for students who wish to develop entrepreneurial skills. Co-Managing Partner (London), Ropes & Gray
Will Rosen (Old Waconian) I came to speak to the Sixth Form Economics and Business Studies students about legal careers in the City. I wanted to help debunk some of the myths about what a career in the City might involve. Plus explain and give context to mergers and acquisitions transactions, and what’s really involved behind the headlines. Re-engaging with the School and the students was great fun, very energising and provided a really good opportunity for me to think about how to help support and advise those looking to make university and career decisions.
I work with an American firm and you see in the US just how good they are at giving back to their schools and colleges to help current pupils. I wanted the students to understand the opportunities available to them and to be available to give practical advice and insights so they have an open mind on the “what next”. Careers in the City can seem remote and scary but having more Mancunians here is definitely a good thing! You will get a huge amount out of getting involved and giving the students an insight into your professional world can only be helpful for them.
Elite Sport The Elite Sport Pathway supports students in balancing the demands of sporting excellence & academic requirements, whilst allowing students to develop an understanding of key contributing factors in elite sport. Hannah McColgan, Class of 2018, thrived because of the specialist support she gained at CHS, “The sports’ teachers were extremely supportive, providing me with ample opportunities to train in School using the fantastic new facilities. The Sport scholarship pathway has made it possible for me to start the next part of my journey at an elite American University on a full scholarship.”
Modern Languages
The Modern Languages Pathway is designed for students who would like to pursue a career in a field that requires language proficiency. It will also focus on complementary skills for linguists and building awareness of the contexts in which languages are used in the commercial world.
The Old WACONIAN 22 / Old Waconians Helping to Change The Face of Careers at CHS
Medical Sciences STEM
This pathway will prepare students for 21st century careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths. They will be given the opportunity to design and build their own project as well as gain real-life insight and experiences through guest lectures and work experience.
The Medical Sciences Pathway covers a wide range of careers, including medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, pharmacy, biomedical science and nursing. Director, We Are RiSE Limited Group Clinical Director of Critical Care Services, MFT, Consultant Cardiothoracic Anaesthetist, Wythenshawe
Dr Julian Barker (parent) Several years ago my daughter asked me if I’d talk to her class about the heart and blood. I set up a medical theatre and got the pupils dressed in scrubs to take part in performing a heart transplant. It was a success and I was invited back. We have refined the original model to really inspire pupils into becoming the medics & healthcare professionals of the future and created RiSE Education (http://education.wearerise.org.uk/).
Senior Principal Account Delivery Executive, Microsoft
90% of people do not love their job. I do. I want everyone to wake up inspired to go to work and feel fulfilled by the work they do. If we can open some eyes to the possibilities of a fulfilling job in healthcare... that’s the aim. If you love your job - tell people about it - especially kids.
Amanda Newman (Old Waconian & parent) I am contributing to the new STEM pathway, having been involved in early meetings. I have previously held a STEM day, sponsored by Shell, demonstrating to 100 year 9 students how diverse and interesting a STEM career can be. I have also participated in the year 9 choices evenings to be a role model and answer questions regarding careers and education in STEM. Social investment is really important to our future generations, with only 9% of Engineers being girls (for example) I feel a responsibility to step up and encourage as a role model. It’s interesting to understand the challenges of today from a younger perspective, as well as rewarding to give back to the School that shaped me. Waconians need relatable influencers that can support and empower them to reach their potential beyond the classroom. I’m sure we all know the power of our networks. If we can give these Waconians a step up in life, that would be an amazing gift.
Core This pathway is for students who would like to maintain flexibility and variety in their studies. Nik Basran, Class of 1998, came back to CHS in March to speak to students with a broad range of interests about his journey in business. His top tips were invaluable to all of the students, regardless of their career intentions and included encouraging them to be inquisitive, to be a radiator not a drain, and the importance of handwriting a thank you note.
How You Can Get involved We would love to hear from you if you can: • o ffer work experience placements • d eliver a talk related to one of the pathways • o rganise an industry visit for our current students • s uggest other enrichment opportunities
Please note that the majority of talks will need to be delivered on Tuesday afternoons although there may be some flexibility around this. Contact er@chschool.co.uk to let us know how you would like to get involved.
The Old WACONIAN 23 / Old Waconians Helping to Change The Face of Careers at CHS
Nik Basran (aka Mindy while at school!), Class of 1998
CEO of The Authentic Food Co. Biggest Challenge: Buying out the family business during a recession in 2008 Biggest Achievement: Buying a business from Kraft Heinz in 2015 Memory of School Dinners: Jam roly poly with custard, having a laugh with mates and not having a care in the world!
Food Glorious Food With our Back to School dinner coming up in November we can’t get food off the brain. As our excellent catering team, Sodexo, come up with new and wonderful ways to elevate the humble school dinner, we thought we’d catch up with some Old Wacs who love food so much they’ve made a career from it. We asked them about their biggest challenges and achievements in their careers to date, what their favourite memories of school dinners were, and finally if they could add one dish to the school dinner menu what would it be. The Old WACONIAN 24 / Food Glorious Food
Nici Wertheim (nee Matlow), Class of 1989
Board Director HR, Swizzels Matlow Biggest Challenge: Retraining to become qualified in HR. When I left university with a European Business degree I started my career in sales. Once I made the decision to move back to Manchester and join the family business, I had my heart set on joining the sales team. I spent a year on the shop floor, learning the production side of making sweets and then 6 months in sales. After which time I was told that there was a greater need for me to succeed the HR Manager, who was due to retire in a couple of years. I took on the challenge went back to University to gain a post-grad degree in HR and started learning all about the up, downs, pitfalls and positives about HR. I now love it and couldn’t think of a better suited career for me!
Biggest Achievement: Employee engagement. Swizzels Matlow is a family business and the 3rd generation of family members now make up the Board of Directors. My biggest achievement has been to nurture a culture of belonging and family across the workforce. We have an employee’s Christmas lunch where our management team serve 600 employees. We have a pensioners Christmas lunch where 100 of our former employees come back for a slap up meal and a tour around the factory so they can see all the changes that have occurred. Memory of School Dinners: Chocolate sponge and custard
Alex Rushmer, Class of 2001
Chef, self-employed Biggest Challenge: Running a successful restaurant business Biggest Achievement: Being listed as one of the UK’s Top 100 Restaurants by The Sunday Times (2017) Memory of School Dinners: I think I took packed lunches for my entire school career!
Ben Gleave, Class of 2016 LyteWater Ltd.
Biggest Challenge: Teachers who had the ‘misfortune’ of teaching me over my school career would know that organisation was never one of my strongest attributes. Now that I’m in the position I’m in, I’ve had to learn this skill on the job and very quickly indeed. It’s not been easy and initially it was more a mix of luck, charisma and cheek that got me through the first month. However; I am now glad to say that my organisation has vastly improved and thus far, everything I’ve promised, I’ve delivered on. Biggest Achievement: The signing of WHSmith as a contract. After long conversations over emails with various departments, spanning several weeks, we finally got through to them and should have our product stocked on their shelves by the end of August. Memory of School Dinners: Pizza Wednesdays followed by a ‘Jelly Challenge’. The challenge where two friends would compete to be the quickest to finish their pot of jelly. To this day I’ve never seen a pot of Jelly inhaled as fast as Harry Grimshaw could do it. I believe the record is still held by him with a time of 1 second flat.
Our Old Wacs’ School Dinner
Starter Alex: More focus on freshly prepared vegetable base and seasonally appropriate dishes
Main Nik: The Beyond Meat Burger – we just agreed an exclusive deal to bring it to the UK and it’s backed by Bill Gates and Leonardo diCaprio. It’s a plant based burger that really tastes like a burger so it’s great for your health and for the environment – win-win!
Dessert Nici: There should be themed desserts – such as valentines lovehearts cupcakes, or Halloween drumstick pudding or Back to School Refreshers rollover!!
Drink Ben: I’d like to see our product ‘LyteWater’ being served with meals. Being a student at CHS I know that there’s a tendency for focus to ‘slump’ after lunchtime break. LyteWater is fortified with all the essential electrolytes and vitamins to give a 100% natural boost of energy which could help students rehydrate and therefore maintain concentration during afternoon periods.
What are your school dinner memories? Share them online using #OldWacSchoolDinners The Old WACONIAN 25 / Food Glorious Food
From PhD to Professor:
Meet the Old Wacs Who Still Love Learning The world of research is vast and ever-changing. It’s full of teams working together to tackle questions related to the unseeable, unthinkable and unimaginable. Looking for ways to improve, develop and discover more about the world around us and advance our understanding beyond what humans currently know. We spoke to four researchers to find out what drives them and what advice they’d give those looking to pursue a career in academia.
James Huscroft (Class of 2012) PhD Researcher, University of Nottingham with industry sponsorship from Campden BRI James has grown up surrounded by the fundamentals of food science as his Dad has worked in the food industry for 35 years. He completed a BSc (Hons) in Food Science at the University of Nottingham spending a year at the world renowned Campden BRI (food and brewing research institution) in Chipping Campden, UK. He is now in the final year of his PhD and chairs the Student Committee for the Institute of Food Science and Technology, acting as the bridge between students and industry professionals. “My research looks at taking plant-based by-products of the food and drink manufacturing supply chain and creating a value added product for an alternative use in the food industry. The aim is to achieve this using processes which are sustainable and green. I want to create a fully natural emulsifier which can be used in a multitude of different food products to aid in the fight against obesity whilst valorising feedstocks which are not seen as desirable products to the consumer. My advice is to work hard. Trusting yourself and following your ideas is also crucial in research because at some point you become the expert in your topic of interest and if you don’t believe in what you do, you won’t be able to persuade people how great your research is and the impact it could have.” Which teacher at CHS had a significant impact on you? “During lower 6th Mr Tann spent a lot of time coaching me on leadership and managerial skills to become the best rugby captain I could be. I have put into practice a lot of those fundamentals going forward and will continue doing so as my career progresses.” The Old WACONIAN 26 / From PhD to Professor: Meet the Old Wacs Who Still Love Learning
Devjoy Dev (Class of 2013) Postgraduate Student, Imperial College London Combining his interests of space travel and medicine with his creative personality Devjoy’s research may not get him into space but could help astronauts to do so. During his degree at QMUL Devjoy completed two summer internships in Singapore and Uganda. His desire to travel spurred him on to take a year out to do some research at Harvard Medical School, before returning to the UK to complete his Master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering at Imperial College London. “I’m developing a stimulating device (CardioStim) for a heart condition called Atrial Fibrillation, a device that hasn’t been redesigned since the 70s. I’m also investigating the suitability of it, and other cardiac devices, in space/zero-gravity environments for astronauts. I’m hoping that in the next few years it will finally reach the hospital setting and make a positive impact on patients. I also want it to have an impact in the space industry. There is a lack of research into cardiac arrhythmia cases in astronauts and while there are multiple causes to them, the longer the space flight the higher the risk of an arrhythmia occurring. Hopefully my research will initiate further interest in that area. My advice for young Old Wacs? Don’t be pressured to decide what to research on now. You’ve got plenty of time, and whatever you decide, don’t be surprised if that decision changes later on. You go by your own timeline, not anyone else’s.” Why do you think it’s important to keep in touch with the School? “School is where it all started. As much as we like to focus on the present and move on from the past, we can’t forget about school days. It’s very easy to forget the past, friends and memories, even if you don’t mean it. Making a small effort to keep in touch goes a long way.”
Rik Bailey (Class of 2006) Research Associate, Newcastle University When he’s not hiking and climbing mountains Rik can be found in the lab trying to produce a functional, medically approved implant that will completely prevent epileptic seizures in patients. After being inspired by Mr Bullock to pursue a physics degree Rik moved to the University of Sheffield to undertake a PhD working with atomic force microscopy (AFM). Following a stint in Sheffield collaborating with a Berlin-based microscope company, and a job at the University of St Andrews he moved to Newcastle to start his work in microfabrication for a big epilepsy project. “In the brain, nerve cells generate rhythmic activity or ‘brain waves’. When these rhythms are disrupted, abnormal patterns of activity are produced. In epilepsy, this can often be localised to a small ‘focus’, which then spreads causing a seizure. Epilepsy affects 600,000 people in the UK but nearly a third of cases fail to respond to conventional drug treatments and may require surgical removal of the focus. However, this may not be suitable for all patients.
This project proposes an alternative treatment using a small implant to modulate abnormal activity and so prevent seizure development. The implant provides precisely timed stimulation by continuously monitoring brain waves via implanted electrodes and modifying them via implanted light sources. The goal is to create a successful first-in-human trial in epilepsy patients. This could change the lives of hundreds of thousands of people in the UK alone, allowing them to perform everyday tasks such as driving a car or going to work. If you’re thinking about getting into research I would say absolutely go for it! The first step is often to take on a PhD – this can be daunting and is a huge amount of work but the rewards at the end make it all worthwhile.” What did CHS give you that has helped you in your chosen career? “I think the greatest thing I took away from CHS was the knowledge that hard work will be rewarded.”
Jill M. Hooley (Class of 1973) Professor of Psychology, Harvard University During her undergraduate degree at Liverpool University Jill took a course on Abnormal Psychology sparking a life-long interest in mental disorders and the role that both the brain and the social environment might play in these. After a year teaching Jill became a research assistant at Cambridge University studying social behaviour in rhesus monkeys. She loved it so after two years went to Oxford University to do a D.Phil. This was followed by a tough decision - to go to the Maudsley Hospital in London or to the State University of New York at Stony Brook. She moved to the U.S. and after completing her clinical training accepted a job at Harvard University where she has been a professor ever since. “Our current research concerns non-suicidal self-injury. We are trying to understand more about why people intentionally harm themselves using such methods as cutting or burning their skin. In our recent work we have been looking at the role of pain in self-injury and the role it plays in emotion regulation.
People often assume that self-injury is a manipulative behaviour, designed to gain attention. This is not usually the case. I hope people will understand that self-injury is a method people use to try and help themselves feel better when they are in intense emotional pain. If we can reduce the stigma associated with self-injury and have more empathy for people who are struggling emotionally, that will be an important step. My advice to young Old Wacs is look for opportunities and don’t wait for things to come to you. Reach out to people and see if you can volunteer to get some experience. Be curious, and be flexible in terms of what you want to study rather than having a very narrow initial focus of interest. What you start out studying may not be where you end up.” Do you have any favourite memories from your time at CHS? “One very cold winter, there was a week when, to raise money, Miss Kight and a group of students sold baked potatoes from the window of the Domestic Science room. Given that school lunches left much to be desired (not greengages again…) that was more wonderful than you can imagine.”
The Old WACONIAN 27 / From PhD to Professor: Meet the Old Wacs Who Still Love Learning
Thanking our OW Supporters ‘On behalf of fellow Governors, all the staff and those who have helped in a voluntary capacity to help us build the Bursary Fund over the last five years. Current and future generations of Old Waconians will benefit from a CHS education thanks to gifts both large and small. Every gift is important and reinforces a link between our Old Waconian community and the current life of the school. I also thank those who have committed to leaving a legacy to CHS in their will. The Bursary Fund now stands at £3.9 million and one in ten of our senior school pupils benefit from bursarial support with 31 receiving full fee remission. Our next target is to grow the Fund to £5 million over the coming years, recognising t hat to continue to support deserving individuals, our focus needs to be on strengthening the Fund as well as developing our Outreach activities.’ - Philip Johnson, Chair of Governors
The Numbers
31
ONE IN 12
Senior School pupils receive means-tested Bursary support
£11,880
currently receive full fee support
current annual school fees
150th Bursary Trust Fund
400 OLD WACS have donated to the 150th Bursary Trust since 2012
£571,412
to CHS in support of bursaries
£3,900,000.00
£3,400,000.00
£2,922,000.00
£2,530,000.00
0
£2,055,000.00
3 9 7 9
£1,433,000.00
£2,123,062
£1,781,000.00
Total raised (cash & pledges)
£5,000,000.00
The Next Target
since 2012 for 150th Bursary Trust
Growth of The Bursary Fund
2020
2019
2018
2017
2016
2015
2014
2013
2012
donations have been made by Old Waconians since 2012
The Old WACONIAN 28 / Thanking our OW Supporters
5,700
contactable alumni
Your Impact
Since 2012 the 150th Bursary Trust has given
Over
12,000
alumni on the database
I think that this year I have achieved a lot both academically and in sports. My overall grades have improved and my languages especially. This was due to the foreign exchange trip that really improved my french speaking skills. I’ve also had a successful season playing County Rugby, all thanks to CHS for putting me forward for trials. - Year 9 student I cannot believe it has come to my final week at Cheadle. It has been a wonderful experience full of highlights, culminating in offers from two Universities. Thank you so much for helping me and mum. - Recent leaver from Class of 2018
Our Supporters
Largest gift
£250,000
166
Smallest gift
£2
Acknowledging your support The Chair’s Circle recognises supporters that make exemplary annual gifts of £10,000 or more. Members are invited to join the Chair of Governors and the Head for several exclusive events to thank them for their visionary support of CHS. We wish to thank all our existing donors for their continued support, whose names can be found on our website: https://www. cheadlehulmeschool. co.uk/chs-life/our-donors. Supporters who have donated over £50,000 are also acknowledged in the entrance of our iconic main building.
£
585
new supporters since 2012
Regular donors
90
£
have agreed to leave a legacy to CHS
What’s next? A new dynamic Sixth Form Centre As well as committing to grow the Bursary Fund, we are at the early stages of developing a new Sixth Form Centre, which will transform the current Staff House into a self-contained building for our students. It will be extended and renovated to create a bright, vibrant and distinctive space and will include a large Independent Learning Area, attractive social break out spaces and a cafe. We look forward to updating you on our new plans in the months ahead.
CHS and our wider community Science Outreach Programme Since 2008 the Oglesby Charitable Trust has supported our Science Outreach Programme, which sees Year 5 pupils from local state schools visit CHS for workshops covering a broad range of science topics. The programme aims to inspire Year 5 pupils’ interest in science and to enrich the science curriculum. The workshops have a huge impact on children who find it challenging to sit at a desk for a long period of time and learn. Our hope is that it will inspire some children to pursue a love of science and perhaps choose science as a career in the future. Dr Anne Carlin, Science Outreach Coordinator, CHS I really liked the workshops, from the first to the last. I am speechless. My favourite thing was the Jelly Baby experiment. Year 5 pupil from local school
To find out more about donating to CHS please email jennifer.miller@ chschool.co.uk or call us on 0161 488 3341. Keep an eye out for our next Bursary Appeal coming soon...
The Old WACONIAN 29 / Thanking our OW Supporters
In Memoriam Dorothy Hagen (née Abbott) 1920 – 2018
The 1855 Society
Dorothy (Dot) was a former boarding pupil at CHS from 1931-1936. She was the youngest of the three Abbott sisters, who all attended CHS as boarding pupils throughout the 1930s. Her sisters were Edith Margaret (Peg) and Irene The Abbott sisters upon leaving School in the 1930s. Dot, Renee and Peg (Renee). The girls were all different in terms of skills and interests, but all very popular with pupils and teachers alike. Dorothy was particularly sporty and very much enjoyed playing and in her later years watching, tennis. Dorothy was first married to a Captain in the British Army. Later, as a widow, she married a Major in the Norwegian Army and they lived in Oslo with their son and daughter. Sadly her second husband also died young, but she continued to live in Norway until her death in February. In her younger years, whilst visiting family, she managed to attend several CHS Fete Days and always looked forward to receiving a copy of The Old Waconian. There are only a few former pupils of CHS still alive today who will remember Dot and her sisters, indeed it is near the end of an era with her passing. Both of her sisters have passed away in recent years, with all three of them living into their nineties.
CHS was founded on philanthropic principles in 1855 and it is therefore fitting that those who choose to leave a legacy become members of our 1855 society. We are most grateful for the legacies we have received this year: Jean Cooke, Class of 1950 Rosemary Huddart, Class of 1964 Brenda MacLeod, Class of 1950 Graham Swepson, Class of 1947 Marion Winterbottom, Class of 1943 Last year, former member of staff Vaughan Wilcock left a gift to support the Bursary Fund. We have installed a commemorative plaque in Holden Hall this year to acknowledge his gift and time at CHS. Vaughan left a lasting legacy and will be fondly remembered by those he worked with and taught during his time here. If you would like to find out more about leaving a legacy or let us know of your intention to leave a gift in your will please contact Jennifer Miller (jennifermiller@chschool.co.uk).
Fondly Remembered
CHS is sad to report the deaths of the following Old Waconians: Keith Armstrong Class of 1952
Leon Connelly Former Staff
Jimmy Green Class of 1962
Simon Laurie Class of 1973
Cliff Arrowsmith Class of 1958
Peter Coop Class of 1949
Peter Binns Class of 1958
Dennis Crane, MBE Class of 1966
Dorothy Hagen (née Abbott) Class of 1938
Jonathan Layne Former Staff, Served 1958-63
Helen Hook Class of 1956
Colin McCrosson Class of 1953
Carole Derwent Class of 1963
Gaye Huddart Class of 1964
Gordon Moxon Class of 1950
Kevin Donaghy Class of 1981
Frank Hudson Former Staff, Served 1964-66
Barry Nield Class of 1951
John Bransby Class of 1947 Mick Brown Former Staff Served 1991-99 Charles Claber Class of 1960 Joy Collins Class of 1943
The Old WACONIAN 30 / Fondly Remembered
Richard Edmondson Class of 1958 Lesley Giligan (née Glauert) Class of 1961
Eric Jackson Former Staff, Served 1950-60 Donald Johnstone Class of 1950
Ann Quadri (née Feinberg) Class of 1958
Edna (Eddy) Reynolds (née Hart) Class of 1959 David Rhodes Class of 1951 Marjorie Rushton (née Pickering) Class of 1953 Grace Studd (née Brown) Class of 1944 The Rev. Canon Roy Taylor Class of 1951
CHS Shop
Welcome to the Gift Shop! Have you visited our online gift shop yet? Head to chsgiftshop.bigcartel.com to purchase your official CHS merchandise. Our limited edition prints of the School by Urban Colours are selling fast so don’t delay in getting your order in. And why not order your tie or scarf in time for the Old Wacs’ Back to School Dinner in November so you can really look the part?
CHS Network Over 1000 of you have already joined our exciting online network www. oldwaconiansconnect.com, getting in touch with old friends and making new professional contacts. As we look for more ways to enhance the CHS community and improve connections between students, Old Waconians, parents and staff we want to open up this platform to help build a wider and more useful network. The first step in this journey is changing the name of the platform to CHS Network. This will make it more inclusive for everyone in our community. The second step is for the platform to have a complete refresh so that content is more accessible and relevant to you as an individual. More filter options will be introduced so that you can choose who you want to connect with. For example, you can choose to link up with only other Old Waconians, or open your network to parents and staff. We will invite parents to join the platform once the refresh is complete. This is planned to take place from October 2018 onwards. Already a member of Old Waconians Connect? You don’t need to do anything - you will simply see the changes mentioned here by the end of the year. You can still access the site via www. oldwaconiansconnect.com. Want to join? Head to www. chsnetwork.co.uk to sign up for free.
For more information please email er@chschool.co.uk or call 0161 488 3341. The Old WACONIAN 31 / CHS Shop
OLD WACONIAN noun (ould wa-kau-ni-an) The term ‘Old Waconian’ stems from the original name given to the School in 1855: THE WAREHOUSEMEN AND CLERKS’ ORPHAN SCHOOLS Every former student and member of staff becomes an Old Waconian when they leave Cheadle Hulme School.
/ Head - Neil Smith / Claremont Road · Cheadle Hulme · Cheadle · Cheshire · SK8 6EF / Tel 0161 488 3330 / Email head@chschool.co.uk / cheadlehulmeschool.co.uk / Registered Company Number 3823129 / Registered Charity Number 1077017