THE Alumni Magazine of Exeter School
Follow the dream Past pupils inspire present generation www.exeterschool.org.uk/alumni
Issue 6 Autumn 2016
Contents
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Feature: Insights into life beyond School
On two wheels
Feature: On two wheels Alumni in focus School news Feature: Follow the dream Memory lane News of Exonians
School news
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OE Club
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Photo credits and captions: Front cover: Sara Orchard (1998 - 2000) was Exeter School's guest speaker at Speech Day in September Contents: Top: Amy Marks (2011 - 2013) and her mother, Junior School Headmistress Sue Marks, completed LEJOG cycle with School team to raise money for charity. Middle: Deputy Headmaster and Geography teacher Paul Ĺ ljivic retired after 18 years of service last summer. Pictured with Upper Sixth Formers. Bottom: Emma Solley (nĂŠe Chatterjee 1997 - 1999) photographing Sara Orchard for cover and feature.
01392 458941 alumnisec@exeterschool.org.uk Exeter School Alumni Office Victoria Park Road Exeter EX2 4NS www.exeterschool.org.uk/alumni Twitter: @ExeterSchoolUK Linkedin: Exeter School Alumni (Old Exonians) Facebook: Exeter School Alumni
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Cover story 2 | The 1633 - Autumn 2016
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This publication is produced by Exeter School and printed by Brightsea Print Group. We welcome stories for consideration. Contributions may be edited for content and length.
Welcome
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he autumn term has seen a rich and varied programme of events both at School and around the country. In early September we welcomed back to School nearly 100 OEs, and their partners, and several retired teachers to the annual OE Day and Dinner. It was lovely to see so many from the years 1968-1972. Many memories were shared, and the cream tea on the Paddock in glorious Devon sunshine was a delight. A week later, BBC Sports Commentator and broadcaster Sara Orchard (1998 - 2000) was our Speech Day guest of honour. Sara spend the afternoon talking to Junior Claire Jordan (née Bolton 1997 - 2004) and husband Ben (left) at the Exeter and Senior School pupils, before Professionals Networking Event supported by JLL and Westerly BMW. giving an inspirational address to the Speech Day audience about her career journey from a reunion in Birmingham and a wine tasting in the School to the BBC. In October, the School held a West End. Do look at the back page and website for celebration of ten years of the School House Library, the programme of events for 2017, and please keep us National Poetry Day and 400 years of Shakespeare, up-to-date with your email address so we can send you featuring professional poets and former teachers invitations. Lawrence Sail (1982 - 1991) and Harry Guest (1972 - 1991). Our recent events have included professional Best wishes, networking evenings in Exeter and Central London, John Davidson, Director of Alumni Relations
Welcome from the Headmaster
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t is my pleasure to introduce another most readable edition of The 1633, which I hope that you will enjoy. As you will see, the School continues to offer a broad and stimulating education; your increasing input to it, in terms of expertise and advice, as well as a number of generous bequests and donations, is much appreciated. The magazine offers a flavour of the valuable close links between former and current pupils and the interesting post-school trajectories of our alumni. Please keep telling us about your progress, news and views. You are most welcome to visit when you can.
The Headmaster with former teachers and professional Headmaster BobSail Griffin with formerand teachers poets Lawrence (1982 - 1991) Harryand Guest poets Lawrence Sail and Harry Guest. (1972 - 1991) at the 10-year Library Celebration.
With all good wishes, Bob Griffin
We are sending this issue of The 1633 by post to all Exonians whose addresses we have except those who have specifically requested to receive copies of publications electronically. If you would like to receive future issues electronically, then please visit the ‘update your details’ page on the contact us tab of the alumni pages of the School website, tick the drop box and ensure your email details are correct. Alternatively, telephone Karen Dart, the Alumni Secretary, on 01392 458941. This magazine and two other school publications, the annual Exonian and bi-annual Exeter School Life can be read on the alumni news section of the School website. www.exeterschool.org.uk/alumni | 3
Careers
Insights into life beyond School
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he programme of career-related events for both pupils and those at university or in work continues to develop, helped by the many alumni in our Careers Network. Pupils have benefitted from meeting alumni and attending their talks and gained from being interviewed by Exonians from various professions as part of our Upper Sixth Interview Scheme.
Careers Talks
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e have welcomed several alumni back to School to give talks to current pupils. Amelia Davies (2000 - 2007) gave the Medical Society a very informative insight into life as a young doctor, describing her journey from School through her degree at St Hugh’s College Oxford and subsequent training in the Oxford and Thames region to her current role in anaesthetics in Bristol. She illustrated various aspects of medical training, including her development of a medical app and her research work on the effects of altitude on the body. Emmie Giles (1999 - 2010) talked about her experience of travelling and working abroad before, during and after university at the 2016 Lower Sixth School to University Day. Drawing on her extensive trips to Uganda, Hong Kong, Europe and Central America, she gave her audience a wealth of ideas and opportunities to think about. Rebecca German (2011 - 2016) entertained the Catalyst Club with an inspiring interactive presentation on ‘What is Music?’. The club is the academic enrichment society for Third to Lower Fifth Form pupils. They worked in small groups thinking about what music meant and the feelings different forms provoked. It was a fascinating exploration of different genres and styles. Archie Gebbie (2007 - 2015) provided an interesting talk on his gap year travel experiences. The pupils enjoyed hearing about the joy of waking up to the sights, sounds and smells of India and the highlights of his tour of South America from trekking at high altitude in the Andes, to seeing Lake Titicaca and Machu Picchu. 4 | The 1633 - Autumn 2016
Upper Sixth Interview scheme
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ll pupils from the Upper Sixth benefitted from the annual interview scheme in October held at Gilbert Stephens and the RILD at the Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital. Forty-five local professionals, including seven alumni, conducted over 200 work style interviews in the space of one day. Past pupils Paul Keeling (1970 - 1975), Tim Lee (1994 - 2005), Steve Perring (1978 - 1981), Simon Lane (1985 - 1989) Malcolm Pratt (1988 - 1999), Paul Dunn (1962 - 1970) and Kris Sum (1994 - 2000) covered a broad range of careers areas including law, environment, business, engineering, finance and IT. The scheme provides a very valuable experience for our Sixth Form giving them an important insight into the thought processes of both employers and university interviewers. We are already seeking interviewers for 2017, so please let us know if you would like to be involved.
London Professionals Networking
The second London Professionals Networking evening took place in November. Current students, recent graduates and alumni from the last 25 years enjoyed the opportunity to chat about their careers and exchange ideas. A highlight of the event was a short talk on how to make the most of your CV and LinkedIn profile delivered by award-winning Personal Branding Specialist and OE Joanna Murchie (née Langton, 1991-1993). The event was kindly supported by JLL whose senior staff appreciated the opportunity to chat to our alumni about their aspirations and skills. The prize for the business card draw was presented by Tim Western, Lead Director, Exeter Office, JLL to Samara Lawrence (2003 - 2011) from the law firm Linklaters, and the undergraduate draw prize went to Charlotte Stacey (2005 - 2015) who is studying at the Royal Veterinary College.
Careers Convention Alumni organisations and businesses were represented amongst the 40 professions present at the annual Careers Convention in November. This year sectors ranged from medical-related careers and engineering to management consultancy, law, finance, and IT. Alumni presenters included Mark Wells (1979 - 1985) from Boeing Defence UK talking about aerospace careers and Ian Williams (1984 - 1986) on working in dentistry. Katie Wade (née Endacott 2005 - 2007) covered jobs in the charity sector, drawing on her current role with Farms for City Children. The annual convention gives pupils opportunities to talk about different careers and complements the Lower Sixth Careers Conference in March, the Upper Fifth work experience programme in June and the Upper Sixth Interview Day in the autumn.
Exeter Business Professionals Networking Event
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xeter School hosted its second networking evening for past pupils based in Exeter in September in the Music School Hall. This year’s theme, ‘The Exeter Business Environment and its opportunities’ attracted over thirty guests and featured two short presentations from local business leaders. Ben and Claire Jordan (née Bolton 1997 - 2004) talked about the challenge of creating their new business venture ‘The Bear Trail’, an outdoor children’s play experience near Cullompton, and parent Marcus Di-Vincenzo, Managing Director, MBSS gave a talk on the rebuilding of a failing company local to Devon.
to exchange ideas and discuss business opportunities. Guests enjoyed a generous buffet, kindly supported by Tim Downer (1974 - 1981), Franchise Director of the Westerly Group. The evening concluded with a business card draw for a bottle of Champagne donated by JLL, the financial and professional services firm specialising in real estate services and investment management, which was presented to Ian Williams (1984 - 1986) by Jane Maunder, Associate Director at JLL. The School was very pleased to receive several offers to help with its programme of career events and Sixth Form talks from alumni present.
The evening provided opportunities for past pupils, staff Careers Adviser Ruth Cheesman said it was insightful and current Sixth Form pupils interested in business, to listen to both new and established entrepreneurs talk about their experiences in starting businesses. Upper Sixth pupil and senior prefect Ross Davidson said: “It gave me a fantastic insight into the real world of business and a chance to meet with experts from various different fields.” If you would like to be part of our Careers Network to help with an event or give a talk and have not already let us know, please email alumnisec@exeterschool.org.uk www.exeterschool.org.uk/alumni | 5
Feature
From Land’s End to John O’Groats on two wheels Pedalling 935 miles for charity
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he Exeter School LEJOG team completed the daunting cross country cycle in August raising over £28,000 for The Children’s Society and the Janine Di-Vincenzo Foundation. Nineteen riders aged between 14 and 77 embarked on the unforgettable 935mile journey from Land’s End to John O’Groats. The cyclists included alumni Graham Skinner and Amy Marks, School staff Craig Stewart, Joe Lapenna, Matt Saunders, Ed Jones, Becci Carter, Junior School Headmistress Sue Marks and Rachel Currie, pupils Oscar Stewart and Alf Raynor, and parent Marcus Di-Vincenzo. Together with two other parents and five friends of the School, the team took just ten days to complete the demanding route. The support team included School staff Ali Marsh, Lisa Stewart, the Bursar Richard Hawkins and pupils Lexie, Max and Luca DiVincenzo who carried supplies, first aid and spare parts in two School minibuses and a trailer. PE teacher Ed Jones summed up the epic adventure from the ascent over Dartmoor, through the welcome on day two at Exeter School to the stunning scenery of the Scottish glens as an unforgettable and humbling experience. “It was an honour to be involved with such a
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worthwhile cause,” he said. “We received huge amounts of support along the route and were inspired by the generosity of everyone that we met.” LEJOG was organised by the School’s Estates and Facilities Manager Craig Stewart, with the support of the Headmaster and the Bursar, and the charities were chosen through local connections. The Children’s Society is a national charity helping children and young people when they are at their most vulnerable and have nowhere left to turn. The Janine Di-Vincenzo Foundation was created by the Di-Vincenzo family following the loss of Marcus’s wife Janine in 2015 through cancer. It aims to provide financial support to families who otherwise would not be able to pay for advice and help from pioneering specialists. The success of these treatments allows families to have more time together. To ensure as much money went to charity as possible, Craig had the brainwave of asking schools along the route to provide accommodation for the Exeter School cycling team and crew. Six HMC Schools, Mount Kelly School, Queen’s College Taunton, Monmouth School, Ellesmere College, Sedbergh School and Lomond School, fed and watered them along the way and provided fantastic accommodation.
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lumna Amy Marks (2011 - 2013) (above right, and left at the finish line with her mum, Headmistress of the Junior School Sue Marks), said the challenge seemed at first to be almost impossible and was by far the hardest thing that many of them had ever undertaken. “However, as the number of miles completed went up and the group welded together, the target seemed suddenly more achievable,” she said. “Keeping us going through some tough days was the thought of the two charities we are raising money for. Throughout the adventure there were a lot of laughs, some extremely sore muscles and a huge amount of calories burnt! We all bonded together in a very special way and were extremely grateful for the support we received along the route from friends and family. A big thanks to organiser Craig Stewart, the support team, the cyclists and, of course, all our supporters who made this incredible journey possible.”
The LEJOG team departing from School on day two (above) and at the start on day one (below).
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lumnus and School Hockey Coach Graham Skinner (1965 – 1972), who returned from the South Africa Sports Tour just in time for LEJOG, said most of his challenges are hockeyrelated so LEJOG took him miles out of his comfort zone. “Despite some training, we all cycled ourselves fitter as the challenge unveiled and the sore muscles hardened up - that is all bar the soft-sitting muscle which still hurts today!” said Graham. “The whole reason for the ride was to support our charities so gritting your teeth was the order of the day. However, the physiotherapists on hand at the end of each gruelling ride made it all worth it!” If you would like to support the two charities and the LEJOG team, please visit the following link uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ fund/LEJOG2016 www.exeterschool.org.uk/alumni | 7
Alumni in focus
From Exeter to South East Asia and Nepal
Jess Cooke (2001 – 2008) is the Resilience and Climate Change Policy Officer for Plan International, a child-centred, non-governmental organisation.
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urricane Matthew in October 2016 once again exposed the vulnerability of Caribbean countries like Haiti. What can organisations do to prepare communities for disasters and build their resilience? My work aims to do just this by identifying vulnerabilities in communities and equipping them with knowledge, skills and resources to respond effectively and recover quickly when disasters strike. My interest in natural hazards developed through Geography at School and my course at Birmingham University. This degree taught me about the technical aspects of hazards like flooding, erosion and climate change, and my Master’s degree in Disasters, Adaptation and Development at King’s College London covered vulnerability, risk or disaster risk reduction (DRR). This led to internships in the UK and the Philippines, and jobs with the charity Save the Children in Bangladesh and Nepal. Conducting research with Save the Children after Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) hit the Philippines in 2013 was an invaluable experience. I interviewed high-level national government officials, principals, schoolchildren, NGOs and communities directly affected by this massive disaster. It was surreal to be a recent graduate discussing issues with heads of government departments, something barely imaginable in the UK. My research showing how Typhoon Haiyan exposed gaps in child-centred DRR policies was used as a key advocacy tool by Save the Children to lobby governments to prioritise children in emergency settings. In 2015, the Philippines Government passed the Children’s Emergency Relief and Protection Act, 8 | The 1633 - Autumn 2016
requiring key departments to ensure children’s rights are protected before, during and after disasters. Now local education officials must plan for how a school will function both a safe place for children to learn and as an evacuation centre after disasters strike. From the Philippines, I moved to Bangladesh supporting a project helping local and national government to prepare children for disasters such as cyclones and flooding. I helped train local education government officers in DRR interventions and taught children in remote villages evacuation drills for earthquakes, fires and floods (as shown in the picture above). The experience of the fire drills at School certainly paid off! After Bangladesh I worked in Thailand, and then in Nepal on the response to the 2015 earthquake. It was very rewarding seeing how our interventions helped children return to a sense of normality, using designated ‘child-friendly spaces’ safe from the surrounding chaos. In my present job as Resilience and Climate Change Policy Officer at the headquarters of Plan International, another child-centred NGO, I coordinate the organisation’s thinking on these two themes and lead their Safe School Global Programme in 35 countries. I have encountered new aspects of development work, such as high-level networking and developing advocacy messages in UN organisations and NGOs. Though UK-based, I still get to visit project sites in Asia and help deliver global policy briefs and key messages at conferences with government ministers and academics. I’m proud to be working with an organisation that empowers children by giving them ways to respond to and recover from disasters.
A lifelong love of the wines of Languedoc-Roussillon Peter Gorley (1953 – 1961) became a wine writer after a career in business and publishing.
edition covered 150 domains and châteaux, the second edition e-Guide was more comprehensive, covering 500 wineries over 15 routes round the region: the biggest vineyard in the world at over 200,000ha. Over the years, wineries were located and plotted onto routes and maps, many kilometres were driven in all seasons, and a vast amount of tasting done (someone has to), and rather too much buying occurred. However, generous winemakers also gifted him some fine bottles.
After School, Peter studied Modern Languages at Cambridge before embarking on a career in business, mainly working as a development consultant and latterly as an occasional publisher. In the mid-80s, he and his artist wife Elizabeth Hannaford fell in love with, and bought, an ancient house – lieu-dit Le Château – in a wine village in Languedoc. ‘Researching’ at wine shows in London and Languedoc, at local fêtes, cellar doors, and on wine trails – sentiers In 1998, while on holiday in Cape Town, he bought gourmands – all added to details in the Guide while John Platter’s impeccable guide to the South African Peter’s notebooks filled with decreasingly legible vineyards, and Liz suggested he should write the tasting notes! This second edition was very much a Languedoc equivalent. Four years later, after much family collaboration, with Peter’s talented designer enjoyable exploration of the subject, the first ‘Gorley’s daughter Jess helping it to reach the readers’ screens, Guide’ was published in 2002, a full-colour paperback with the guide’s 450 pages immeasurably enhanced by with blurbs kindly supplied by Jancis Robinson MW Liz’s wine paintings. and US wine guru Kermit Lynch. Readers, including UK wine writer Malcolm Gluck, were complimentary. Wine writer and critic Tamlyn Currin said in her review: Peter had the honour of being enthroned as a Chevalier “Gorley has a way of making you feel as though he’s by the Wine Guild of the Saint-Chinian Appellation. whizzing you down the A9 to take you to some places The book sold out in two years, though used copies that he loves... a chatty style, casual, unapologetically still appear on Amazon at crazy prices. personal… The guide is punctuated with photographs, some of them breathtakingly beautiful - most of them The second edition, published as an i-Book/PDF taken by Peter Gorley himself. But what I particularly just before Christmas 2015, took almost a decade to loved were the stunning abstract paintings of vines assemble, fitted in between consultancy work which, and wines and landscapes done by his artist wife, happily, included working with teams of executive Elizabeth Hannaford. How to turn a travel guide into MBA students from Sydney Business School on something a little extraordinary.” business projects for local wineries! While the first
www.exeterschool.org.uk/alumni | 9
School news Africa-bound
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Outstanding exam results
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xeter School pupils, parents and staff celebrated a set of excellent A Level results last summer. Thirty-five pupils scored three or more A* or A grades with 18% at A*. Over half of all grades were A* and A with 84% at A*, A and B. The School is particularly proud of its record number of medical offers this year with 12 pupils going on to study Medicine, two to study Veterinary Science and one to study Physiotherapy. 82.2% of all GCSE grades were A* or A and 50.4% of grades were A*. Seventy-two candidates scored 8 or more A*/A grades with 43 registering 10 or more A*/A grades. Laura Perring, the daughter of alumnus Steve Perring (1978-1981) was the highest individual achiever with 12 A*s.
mixed squad of 24 rugby players, and 18 netball and hockey players toured South Africa and Swaziland in August with seven members of staff including alumnus Graham Skinner (1965 - 1972). Their itinerary included visits to Johannesburg, Kruger National Park, Durban, Cape Town and Soweto. Alongside several competitive sports matches, the pupils used the £2,500 they had raised to repaint a preschool in Swaziland and provide a new water supply. A memorable day was spent supporting a sustainable farm project at an orphanage; a highlight was the activities day organised by the tour party.
A triple celebration
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chool House Library celebrated its 10th anniversary with a poetry event linked to National Poetry Day and 400 years of Shakespeare in October. The Library, named after its origins as boarding accommodation, was the venue for pupils, staff, guests, Governors and alumni to enjoy refreshments, tours and poetry readings. President of the School Library Association, Kevin Crossley-Holland, declared Exeter School Library as his favourite school library in the foreword of the anniversary souvenir programme. Over 50 guests including several alumni enjoyed poetry readings by Lawrence Sail (1982 - 1991) and Harry Guest (1972 - 1991) who taught at Exeter School e waved farewell to some long-standing before becoming professional poets. members of staff at the end of the summer term. Deputy Headmaster and Geography teacher Paul Šljivic and Nick Moon, Head of Design and Technology and former Head of Daw House both retired after 18 years. Physics teacher Tim Clark retired after 15 years, and Head of House and Maths teacher Will Daws left to become Head of Sixth Form at King’s School, Bruton after 13 years. Bursary Administrator Sandy Aggett retired after 16 years. Headmaster’s Secretary Annette Goswell and Junior School teacher Val Randerson retired after 12 and 11 years respectively.
Fond farewells
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Good Schools Guide Awards
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xeter School is the recipient of two Good Schools Guide Awards. The School has been honoured for its excellence in GCSE Spanish and AS Level Physics. This is the first time Exeter School has received a Good Schools Guide Award for Modern Foreign Languages and the third year in a row for Physics. It is the ninth subsequent year that Exeter School has received a Good Schools Guide Award for Science.
Successful Charity Day
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he annual Exeter School Charity Day in September run by Senior Prefects raised over £1,200 for the Janine Di-Vincenzo Foundation and Balloons. Pupils from all year groups were involved, with the Upper Sixth team winning the Bubble Football Tournament, and the Third Form girls gaining the award for the best dressed team in their St Trinian’s costumes. The Sixth Form were very grateful for the contribution made through the collection during the 2016 OE Dinner.
An Olympic champion calls Exeter School remembers
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he annual Lower Fifth trip in October to the World War One battlefields was particularly memorable, this year being the anniversary of the Battle of the Somme. The pupils visited sites in Belgium and France, including Sanctuary Wood, the Menin Gate, Serre and Newfoundland Park. A special event took place at the Sir Edwin Lutyens War Memorial at Thiepval, where the names commemorated include several Old Exonians, and three relatives of pupils on this year’s visit. The 117 pupils and 13 staff stood in silent contemplation while the Chaplain Revd Tom Carson led a short service of Remembrance. Pupils read On Somme by Ivor Gurney and Psalm 23 and Classics teacher Nick Keyes read out the names of Old Exonians and the relatives of the pupils on this year’s trip who appear on the Thiepval Memorial. A Lower Fifth bugler played The Last Post. It was a poignant moment as the echoes of the music faded away with the only other sound being birdsong.
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lympic gold medallist Giselle Ansley paid Exeter School pupils a visit in October. The Team GB hockey player who took part in the Rio 2016 Olympics coached Junior and Senior School pupils and spent time answering questions and signing hockey sticks and mobile phones. She generously allowed pupils to hold her medal and everyone was surprised at its weight! www.exeterschool.org.uk/alumni | 11
Feature
Follow the dream Two alumni enthused pupils and staff with their inspirational careers and aspirational messages of working hard to achieve their goals Sara Orchard
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Sara went to Sheffield University to study journalism. She joined the rugby team and captained the 1st XV in her final year. After university, Sara travelled around the world, including following England at the Rugby World Cup in Australia in 2003 and being at the final when Jonny Wilkinson’s drop goal secured victory. Her bond with rugby was forever tied.
BC sports commentator and broadcaster Sara Orchard (1998 – 2000) was the 2016 Speech Day guest of honour in September. During her address to pupils, parents, staff and Governors, she entertained the packed assembly hall with tales of her 13 years working on the Olympic Games, Commonwealth Games, the Rugby World Cup and Wimbledon and her Back in the UK, she trained as a referee and a coach and journey from Exeter School to radio and TV. set off on the difficult path to find a job in journalism. After endless work experience placements at Sara joined the Sixth Form from St Peter’s High newspapers, radio stations, TV channels and voluntary School in 1998. She studied A Levels in English, work at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital Radio Theatre Studies and Economics, took part in Young station and BBC Radio Devon, the chance finally came Enterprise, set up a theatre club for younger pupils with a job at BBC Radio Devon reading the traffic and and got involved in every sport possible. This included travel bulletins for Devon and Cornwall. Sara jumped starting a girls’ rugby team with the support of Head at this chance and never looked back. After two years, of PE Les May (1974 - 2007). Sara got a trial with she was given some sports reporting including Exeter the Devon Under 18s, played rugby for Devon and Chiefs, and then moved to the sports department at BBC was selected for the South West. From Exeter School, London, as a sports bulletin reader and rugby reporter. 12 | The 1633 - Autumn 2016
Sara with Heads of School Sophie Jefferson and George Milner (left) and Senior School pupils interested in journalism (above). Sara with Junior School Headmistress Sue Marks and pupils (below). Her first practice commentary was an England v Wales match at Twickenham ahead of the 2007 World Cup. She passed the test and never looked back!
Sara initially found work in the media, how 18 months of reading traffic reports helped her learn the trade, and how much antisocial hours and unpredictable lifestyles feature in the day-to-day work of sports commentators. Questions ranged from which events around the world she had covered recently to how much travel was a key Sara has commentated on a wide part of the job. Sara explained how events like cycle range of sports and covered races and golf are covered when you cannot be with prestigious events including the competitors at every point in the game. Wimbledon, the Sochi Winter Olympics in 2014 and the Rio The pupils were surprised to hear how much research Olympics this year. She also works was needed to commentate accurately and effectively for BBC London TV News as a on an increasing variety of sports. They were presenter and reporter, reads sports also intrigued to hear about which famous sports bulletins for Radio 4 and writes personalities Sara had met and how she prepared for for rugby journals. Rugby has their interviews. The pupils went away inspired by remained her first love and it was what they had heard, and fascinated by the variety of a huge privilege for her to be the work in journalism. Pupils also gained a very realistic first female commentator on the men’s Rugby World view on the need for perseverance and belief in oneself Cup in 2015, and to contribute to the Radio 4 Today on the journey. Programme during the tournament. Her messages to current pupils at Exeter School in her Speech Day address were very clear. To be brave and bold and try your best at everything you take on. You will then find a niche and can work hard to develop it. Also be passionate and inquisitive about a subject, and develop your own informed opinions. Sara loves her work as a sports commentator, and she conveyed her enthusiasm very clearly to the Speech Day audience. Sara talked to Lower Two pupils about her career answering questions ranging from her favourite memories at School to what inspired her to become a BBC reporter. She captivated the 9 and 10-year-old pupils with her enthusiasm for sport in general and rugby in particular. Sara led a seminar with a group of Senior School pupils from the Lower Fifth to Upper Sixth who had expressed an interest in becoming journalists. In the hour-long animated discussion, topics included the way
Feature
Hugh Collins
and programming by enabling them to design their own game levels with real JavaScript in an enjoyable way which they can share with friends, using the popular oding! Writing a set of instructions that product Minecraft. computers can understand and follow, rather like a recipe. Entrepreneur Hugh Collins (2005- Hugh talked first to all 60 Upper Two pupils. Coding 2010), Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer of became part of the national curriculum for primary London based Code Kingdoms, spent a day at Exeter schools in 2013 to encourage children to be taught School in October inspiring the pupils with his love of this essential creative skill for the 21st century. A coding. forest of hands in answer to Hugh’s questions showed that nearly all the Junior School pupils had some Hugh’s passion for problem solving through computing experience of code, and they had all played Minecraft. and electronics developed from the Lower Fifth. After In his interactive session, Hugh showed how the Code studying Maths, Further Maths, Physics and Music in Kingdoms interface enabled children to write code to the Sixth Form, he went on to read Computer Sciences create their own games and scenarios within Minecraft at St Catharine’s Cambridge, where he fell in love with through building Mods, where the code is written in coding. He co-founded Code Kingdoms in October coloured blocks. He then showed them how beneath 2013 helped by the company Entrepreneur First (ef). the blocks were lines of Java code, and very soon Code Kingdoms teaches children computer science the pupils were suggesting new coding ideas, such
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his Minecraft server in action. There were lots of questions and a discussion on alternative languages such as scratch, HTML and Python. Later, Hugh addressed another group of Sixth Form and Upper Fifth pupils about the practicalities of setting up a new company. Hugh explained that not all ideas work and he had a number of false starts before founding Code Kingdoms. To establish the company, they worked with the world’s leading company builder Entrepreneur First (eF). It is the world’s leading company builder which specialises in deep technology startups. He praised their professionalism and the range of advice and encouragement they gave, which enabled Code Kingdoms to get off the ground. He also explained the need to find funding, and the role played by the Venture Builder Blenheim Chalcott in raising the necessary capital to expand.
as including co-ordinates to make animals appear in different places. Pupil Diya Seth said: “Hugh used Minecraft to demonstrate how coding could allow you to do anything. He made his Minecraft character shoot arrows every time it walked and showed us how coding could help design buildings and many other things such as rollercoasters. We suggested other things he could do in Minecraft, such as when his character died it spawned a wolf, and we wrote the code to do this!”
Hugh rounded off a very busy day by running a seminar for teachers. Different ways to help children learn the skill of coding were discussed, as well as the various pathways to Java and other programming languages. The potential of building adventure games and creating code to control devices through Arduino was an exciting possibility. At the end of the day, pupils and staff went away enthused by Hugh’s inspirational way of thinking; children need to find problems, look for solutions, know why there is syntax error, and be encouraged if it does not work, to try again!
Albert Hughes said: “I think Code Kingdoms is amazing and a really fun way to learn to code; afterwards, lots of my friends said that they definitely wanted to get an account with Code Kingdoms and have a go at coding themselves.” The Lower Sixth were the audience for Hugh’s second session when he covered his journey from School to becoming an entrepreneur. He highlighted how much he enjoyed the creative aspects of developing a company from nothing, and how different the real entrepreneurial world was from just devising new ways to sell a product. He showed how his approach was all about finding a problem and then thinking up creative ways to solve it using IT, and not being afraid to fail. While at Cambridge, Hugh saw how children needed to learn how to code, and the importance of engaging them when young. He had started a number of coding enterprises in London which had not taken off, but then Code Kingdoms was born to teach coding through games like Minecraft. Hugh encouraged the Lower Sixth to be creative and prepared to fail, and suggested Hugh with Junior School pupils (left) and his Physics that if they did not want to code, creating their own teacher Graham Bone (above left). Hugh leading his blog on something that interested them was a good interactive talk on Minecraft and coding (above). skill to learn and would demonstrate their passion. We are very keen to welcome back alumni. Hugh’s third group was a drop-in session for Please contact us if you are interested via the Senior School pupils to talk about coding, and see Alumni Office. www.exeterschool.org.uk/alumni | 15
Memory lane
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At the heart of learning
he School celebrated the 10th anniversary of the School House Library in October. There has been a library in Exeter School since 1881. Prior to the 1930s, it was located on Lower Corridor, in glass -fronted cupboards in Room 1. In 1929, the School Development Fund prioritised the establishment of a dedicated library. This opened in 1933 in the new Andrews Wing, and was called the Old Exonian Library in recognition of the many OE donors who made it possible. Over time it became known as the Andrews Library, after Headmaster J.L. Andrews who led the School from 1927 - 1949. It was a reference library, primarily for Sixth Form pupils, the base for the School’s debating society, and the venue for boarders’ prep, except during World War Two when it was occupied by pupils and staff on fire-watching duties. In the 1970s, a second library was established in the ‘Old Dining Hall’, known today as the Butterfield Hall with new free-standing bookcases and a large collection of fiction and non-fiction works for younger pupils. At this time, both libraries were supervised by members of the teaching staff, assisted by prefects, but in 1981, the School appointed Meryl Humphries as its first full time librarian. Over 18 years, until her retirement in 1999, she developed it as a whole school provision with an ever expanding range of journals and periodicals. She oversaw its extensive refurbishment in 1984, complete with new upholstered chairs, new
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bookcases and a carpet to soften sound. Later, robust book issue and cataloguing systems were introduced. In 1984, the Andrews Library received the stock from the Butterfield Hall, releasing the Hall for other purposes. Meryl Humphries was succeeded in 1999 by Sue Price, who continued with the Library’s modernisation particularly through the use of IT. In the same year, the top two floors of the Butterfield Building, known as Study Row and Dormitory Row became available for re-development when the last boarders left School House. The Governors made the visionary decision to create a large, modern library on two floors, keeping the building true to the principles of Victorian architect William Butterfield, with the tower extension providing additional access. Work took place from 2004 - 2006 and was completed to a very high standard under the direction of the Bursar at that time, Brigadier Derek Williams. The new School House Library opened in September 2006, and the Andrews Hall became a lecture room. In 2009, when Sue retired, Elizabeth Taylor became the third librarian in the history of the School. She and her team of library assistants have continued to develop the library and its activities, with visiting authors, Carnegie Shadowing groups, reading clubs and innovative displays. In recent years there has been an increased focus on developing a range of digital resources. Today, the School House Library occupies a position at the heart of the original School buildings. It is at the centre of the School’s teaching
and learning and is very much appreciated by pupils across all the year groups. The tenth anniversary was marked with an early evening poetry and music event linked to National Poetry Day and 400 years of Shakespeare. Pupils, staff, guests, Governors and alumni assembled in the library for refreshments and tours by pupil guides.Various displays, including wonderful, eye-catching artwork from the Art department, a photographic history of the Library and an exhibition of the work of alumni authors were on view. The poetry event featured two guest professional poets, alongside current pupils and staff including the winners of this year’s Third Form poetry competition. The poets were Lawrence Sail, who taught French and German from 1982 1991, and Harry Guest, who was Head of Modern Languages and taught English, French, German and Japanese from 1972 - 1991. Lawrence compèred the evening’s entertainment most effectively. A souvenir programme produced for the event included a lovely tribute to the library by Kevin Crossley-Holland, President of the School Library Association in the foreword.
THEN AND NOW:
Exeter School Manston Terrace entrance 1963-2016
1963
Top left: School House Library in 2016. Top right: Boarding House Dormitory in the 1950s. Above: The Andrews Library in the 1950s.
We are always very grateful to receive donations of memorabilia for the School Archive. We are particularly keen to receive group photos of teams and houses, and play and concert programmes especially from the 1970s and early 1980s where there are some gaps in our collection. If you would like to offer any archive items to School, please contact the Alumni Secretary Karen Dart.
2016
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he historic photo shown at the top was taken by John Barlow (1960 - 1965). John was a keen photographer at School and has kindly provided a selection of photos for the School Archives. The photo was taken on 1 February in that very cold winter after a snow shower. It is 8.56 am and pupils are arriving for lessons. The car shown belongs to Geography teacher Bob Jenner. The wooden huts with rooms 13 and 14 are clearly visible. The Daw Building replaced the Huts in 1984 and the pillars and gates were built at the same time.
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Alumni events
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1. Joanna Murchie (née Langton, 1991-1993) and Julian Robinson (1991-1998) centre, with Tim Western, Lead Director, Exeter Office, JLL (right) and Richard Yendle JLL (left), at the London Networking evening at the Counting House, Guildhall, November 2016. 2. Claire Richardson (2008-2012) and Nic Alford (2007-2014) with Head of Sixth Form Ali Marsh at the London Networking evening. 3. Millie Gibbins (2005-2016), Rebecca Horn (2007-2016), Jessie Albutt (2014-2016), Ben Cox (2006-2016) and Lionel Pike (20062016) at the Buffet Reception for 2015/2016 Leavers, School Pavilion, September 2016. 4. Tony Orchard (1935-1940) with his granddaughter Sara (1998-2000) at the Speech Day reception, Butterfield Hall, September 2016. 5. Jonathan Williams (1989-1996), Charles Kislingbury, Director JLL, Deborah Bazeley (2003-2008), Graham Higgins (1999-2006) and Higher Education Advisor and Science teacher Manoj Chitnavis at the Exeter Business Professionals Networking evening in the Music School, September 2016. 6. Assistant Librarian Sue Edmunds with Archivist Kevin White (1953-1961) at the School Library Celebration Event in October 2016. 7. Josh Hanna (2009-2016), Jamie Telford (2008-2016), Em Scott (2014-2016), Lucy Palk (2005-2016), and Cameron Rait (2005-2016) at the Buffet Reception for 2015/2016 Leavers, School Pavilion in September 2016. 8. Lucy Rutledge (2001-2008), Signe Hulbert (2001-2008), guest Jono, Director of Alumni John Davidson, Ed Grieg Gran (2002-2007) and Will Trotman of The Vintner at the London Wine Tasting evening, The Vintner tasting rooms, Parsons Green, September 2016. 9. Will Marsh (2004-2015), Millie Gibbins (2005-2016), Rebecca Horn (2007-2016), Head of Sixth Form Ali Marsh, Alex Purday (20102015), Tom Stokes (2004-2015), Sam Boddington (2004-2015) and Arthur Prideaux (2011-2016) at the Birmingham Buffet Reception, Selly Park Tavern, October 2016. 10. OE President Robin Thomas (1964-1971), receives the Joe Mullins Cup for the OE v School sports competition on behalf of this year’s winners, the OEs, from past president Joe Mullins (1947-1955) at the OE Dinner, September 2016. 11. Head of Drake House and Head of RS Mike Porter, Martin Cull (2004-2016), Becky Richardson (2006-2016), Annabel Ling (20052016), Jessica Hitt (2009-2016), Tom Sage (2006-2016), Chris Richardson (2006-2016), Toby De Mendonça (2011-2016) and Director of Alumni John Davidson at the Buffet Reception for 2015/2016 Leavers, School Pavilion, September 2016. 12. Amanda Herring (2009-2016), Head of Buller House and Biology teacher Peter Boddington, Alex Purday (2010-2015), Tom Stokes (2004-2015), Ben Kirsch, teacher of Biology 2012-2016, Richard Baker (2009-2014) and Hannah Withers (2005-2016) at the Birmingham Buffet Reception, Selly Park Tavern, October 2016. 13. David Stanley (1979-1990), Andrew Thomas (1966-1972), Head of Sixth Form Ali Marsh and John Goodman (1943-1947) at the Birmingham Buffet Reception, Selly Park Tavern, October 2016. Photos are also on the School website and Facebook page. Forthcoming events are on the back page.
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News of Exonians John Goodman (1943-1947) received a prestigious national Flame of Hope Award from Cancer Research UK in June 2016, in recognition of his outstanding work for the charity. John was named a Cancer Research UK Honorary Fellow in celebration of the unflinching loyalty and dedication he has shown to the cause over many years. John, who celebrated his 87th birthday this year, is a former sales and marketing consultant and a member of the Birmingham Institute of Directors. He has been a member of the Solihull Vision Team for fifteen years and its chair for the last four. Over £250,000 has been raised by the group since it began in 1998 for the charity’s pioneering work into the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer. John, who has battled cancer twice himself, worked as an ambassador in the Solihull area alongside his wife Jackie until she sadly passed away in 2013. He received his award at the Merchant Taylors Hall in London at a special ceremony hosted by Cancer Research UK’s Chairman Michael Pragnell. John is always on the lookout for ways to increase fundraising for the charity and gives presentations regularly to local organisations. Shilts Shah (1988 - 1994) visited School in October during a short break in Devon. He spent his secondary education as a boarder in School House before going on to study Medicine at Southampton University from 1994 to 2001, following which he completed his training as a GP in the Isle of Wight. For the last ten years, he has worked in a South London practice in Balham and appeared regularly in the Series 3 of the Channel 5 television programme ‘GPs: Behind Closed Doors’ between 2015 and 2016. On his tour of the School, Shilts met up with former Housemaster of School House Mike Porter, and Science teacher Manoj Chitnavis, and saw the former boarding house areas, now part of School House Library. His brothers Yul (1982 - 1988) and Shripal (1985 - 1991) were also boarders. Yul is currently working for a charity in Norway, and Shripal works in the financial sector. While at School, Mike Harris (2000 - 2005) was a member of the very successful series of School squash teams, regularly in the finals of the National School Championships under the expert coaching of John Poustie (1990 - 2013). Mike played for England at U19 level and became a professional squash player world rank 115. Mike has played in events all over the world from Kuala Lumpur and Hong Kong to Brasil and still plays in pro events, recently making the final of the Jersey Classic in June 2016. He is currently the Devon County Squash and Racketball No1, Head of Squash and Racketball at Exeter Golf and Country Club and in charge of running Devon Junior Squash coaching. Mike is very excited to return to School to coach squash and looks forward to helping the pupils fulfil their potential! 20 | The 1633 - Autumn 2016
Matt Jones (1987 - 1992) arranged for a group of lucky Upper Fifth and Sixth Form RAF cadets and three staff to visit Exeter Airport in September to see two lovingly restored Spitfires. They watched the Boultbee Flight Academy two-seat Spitfire SM520 (piloted by Matt) take off and land, sat in the cockpit of City of Exeter, restored by Martin Phillips, and learnt about the history of these remarkable, famous aircraft. On Battle of Britain Memorial Day, both Spitfires, with Matt at the controls of City of Exeter, staged a special flypast in formation over Exeter and down the Exe Estuary.
Photo credit: Express & Echo
Imogen Butler-Cole (1993 - 1995) trained at RADA after leaving Exeter School and has performed in theatres and venues from London to New Zealand. With her company THEWHATWORKS she directed Much Ado About Nothing in Mumbai in 2006 sponsored by the British Council, and produced The Tempest in Bangla at Shakespeare’s Globe for the Globe to Globe Festival in 2012. As a guest lecturer in Drama and Creative Writing departments, she has taught at the Universities of Oxford, Westminster, Loughborough, Jadavpur (Calcutta), Kalina (Mumbai) and Jahangirnagar (Dhaka). She recently joined the staff at RADA teaching Shakespeare and Devising on the Young Actors’ Summer Schools and is an assessor for the RADA Awards. Imogen has developed a strong interest in drama focusing on the lives of women and particularly Bangladeshi women. Between 2009 and 2011 she was Casting Director on 24-part drama series Bishaash for the BBC World Service Trust in Dhaka, Bangladesh. In 2016 she developed her first solo performance piece Foreign Body which has been performed at several locations around the country including Exeter’s Bike Shed Theatre where the audience included staff and pupils from School. This well-made piece, created with real integrity and honesty, tackles the difficult and personal subject of sexual assault and has received high critical acclaim. In its final form, it will premiere at the Women of the World Festival at the Southbank Centre in March 2017. @THEWHATWORKS #ForeignBodyPlay www.exeterschool.org.uk/alumni | 21
Chloe Tremlett-Williams (2012 - 2014) completed a foundation diploma in Fine Art at Exeter College after school, and squeezed in some travelling before starting a Masters in Physics at University of Bath. Last October she ran, along with a team of students from Bath University, the Budapest Marathon for Worldwide Cancer Research. Despite various training hiccups such as shin splints and an old ankle injury she survived the experience and finished with an excellent time of 5.5 hours. Chloe fundraised by selling flapjacks to students on campus, arranging a speed dating event, two coffee mornings in St Leonard’s at home and a car boot sale. Her motivation on long practice runs was always how statistics predict that 50% of her generation will develop some sort of cancer in their lifetimes. This was Chloe’s first marathon, and what stood out most was not the mental challenge or the physical exhaustion, but the kindness and encouragement offered by fellow runners and the supporters cheering you on. Chloe would like to thank her family, friends, staff and alumni who have all been so supportive with both the training and the fundraising. Chloe and her family also owe a debt of gratitude to former teacher Lawrence Sail (1982 - 1991) who generously donated his time for a fabulous fundraising evening of poetry. If any OEs wish to give, her page is https://budapest16bath. everydayhero.com/uk/chloe.
While attending the Chapel Concert on OE Day 2016, Tim Atkinson (1965 - 1972) recalled his unique meeting in July 1970 with the legendary musician and keyboardist Rick Wakeman, a member of the bands Strawbs and Yes. The Strawbs were booked to play at the end of term concert in the Assembly Hall, and during the afternoon while the rest of the band were setting up, Tim and a friend went into Exeter with Rick Wakeman to buy some strings for guitarist Dave Cousins. On returning to School, Rick asked if there was a school organ. Tim sneaked him into the Chapel despite having misgivings as it was firmly out of bounds. Rick then gave an astonishing private recital! A teacher came in, did a double take at the very longhaired apparition sitting at the organ, and then sat in the rear pew and listening for quite some time before leaving without saying a word – just a reassuring, (or was it approving?), nod and a smile! The evening ‘Folk Rock Concert’ was a huge success featuring the Vintage Jug Band, Al Jones and of course the Strawbs. They played several of their well-known numbers which were recorded just three days later on the album Just a Collection of Antiques and Curios.
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Geoff Perry (1967 – 1977) was Head Prefect, RAF cadet officer and a member of Crossing House; after initial teacher training he taught Maths and Computing in Staffordshire, Berkshire and Hampshire. In 1995, he left teaching and joined SIMS (Schools Information Management Systems) where training, consultancy and latterly product management necessitated worldwide travel visiting education establishments. He retired early in 2015 and is enjoying not living out of a suitcase in a small village near Usk in Monmouthshire with his wife. Ben Longhurst-Prior (1990 - 1997) joined The Grange Equestrian Centre as Operations Manager in October. The centre is located near Okehampton in beautiful Devon countryside with views over Dartmoor, and it aims to cater for the full range of equestrian interests. Ben’s role is to develop the commercial and strategic opportunities at The Grange, and to create a familyfriendly, safe and rewarding experience for customers.
A bright October Saturday saw five OEs playing hockey against each other in the Isca v Birmingham University match. Matt Marsh (2006 - 2016), Chris Mason (1999 - 2008) and Jamie Cooke (2000 - 2005) were playing for Isca, supported by coach Graham Skinner (1965 - 1972), with Will Marsh (2004 - 2015) and Tom Poustie (2003 - 2014) playing for Birmingham. Sadly for Exeter, the Isca team lost 6-1 to a strong Birmingham University side!
John Veryard (1949 - 1957) informed the Alumni Office of an annual alumni meet up. ‘Halfway along the M4’ hardly sounds an attractive meeting point! However, for each of the last twelve years the group of OEs pictured, all from School House in the late 1950s, have gathered from all corners of the South of England and Wales, in early summer, as a way of keeping in touch. If you were a boarder or dayboy from that time, you will see they have hardly changed over the last almost 60 years, and you will be sure to recognise Barry Ashcroft (1952 1959) (seated) and standing left to right Joe West (1952 – 1958), Keith Edmonds (1950 - 1957), Fergus Evans (1954 - 1959), Joe Welch (1954 - 1957), Richard Jowett (1948 - 1959), Martin Turner (1952 - 1956) and John Veryard. Unable to join in this year were Martin Stansell (1950 - 1957) and David Hammonds (1953 - 1958). Should you wish to get in touch with anyone, please contact the Alumni Office. John Heywood (1949 - 1955) from Raleigh House did his two years National Service after leaving school. He later worked in the family building business G Heywood and Sons Ltd until its sale in 1992. He has been very active in voluntary work including 28 years with the Royal Observer Corps, and the National Trust. He has also run the Topsham swimming pool cash desk for over 20 years! The School is very grateful for his donation to the archives of his cap, blazer and satchel. The latter contains his exercise books and examination papers from the 1950s, including teachers’ comments, which provide a wonderful insight into what was being taught at the time. This collection will help show pupils what school work and exams were like 60 years ago. Please send us your news and photos. See the School website and Facebook page for more stories and galleries. www.exeterschool.org.uk/alumni | 23
OE Club
Old Exonian Day and Dinner 2016
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he School welcomed back Old Exonians and their partners from the 1940s to recent leavers for the annual Old Exonian Day on Saturday 17 September. The School grounds looked fantastic in the warm September sunshine as 90 guests arrived for the morning tours of the School and a very convivial lunch. They enjoyed seeing a large display of photographic memorabilia in the Butterfield Hall and Exonian Centre, and a chance to watch current pupils playing rugby and hockey. In the afternoon, Headmaster Bob Griffin gave an overview of recent School achievements and activities, and musicians from the Upper Fifth and Sixth Form gave a special concert in the Chapel. They performed a selection of vocal and instrumental pieces led by Upper Sixth Form pupil Verity Stroud and accompanied by Peter Adcock (1980 - 1987) who concluded the concert with a spirited rendition of Bach’s Toccata and Fugue in D Minor on the organ. The afternoon activities concluded with a cream tea on the Paddock and a chance
Exeter School merchandise for Christmas gifts
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he School shop offers a range of School-related merchandise at competitive prices. Shop items can be purchased from the on-line shop on the website or in person from the Bursary or Alumni Office if you are in Exeter.
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for everyone to catch up with their news. It was lovely to see so many OEs who had left around 1970 return to School, with over 25 amongst the 90 guests. Many had travelled from across the country to be there and the majority had not visited the School since they had left. They were amazed to see the changes that had taken place, and the variety of activities now on offer. They were also reassured to note that Lower Corridor and the Chapel looked much the same, and that the names of places such as the Prefects Lawn, Quad, Wells and Pound are still in use. Fond memories were shared of the (unheated) swimming pool, the Fives Court and the old Music School of the 1960s and early 1970s, situated in the Sanatorium, now the residence of the Buildings & Estates Manager. In the evening, OEs joined the Headmaster, Bursar, staff and Senior Prefects for the Old Exonian Exeter Dinner. The evening concluded with the presentation of the Joe Mullins Cup for School v OE sports to this year’s winners, the OEs.
OE grant supports English teaching in Paraguay
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essica Honey, (2007 - 2015) spent eight months of her gap year as a volunteer English teacher in Paraguay, from January to August 2016, helped by a grant from the Old Exonian Club. She worked for the Santa María Education Fund (SMEF), a charity based in a small rural village. The charity offers scholarships to the brightest young people from Santa María to pay for tertiary education, as they would otherwise be unable to go to university, reducing their chances of a career. SMEF also offers a free English courses to both children and adults taught by volunteers from the UK. Jessica was one of the two volunteers, her timetable consisting of four daily “adult” classes for those aged 13 to 45, and two classes for children, aged 8 to 13. The students were incredibly motivated. It was very rewarding to teach them, and as many were of university age they became her friends.
from pop to Taize music, and twice a week, she taught rhythm and singing to the Food Technology classes. It was really something to hear a class of 40 loudly sing My Heart Will Go On in Spanish, accompanied by homemade maracas. Jessica lived with a wonderful woman called Demetria whose children had all left home and was introduced to her friends as her new daughter. She cooked delicious meals and dealt with the more terrifying spiders in the bedrooms. Demetria was the choir leader at the church and Jessica really enjoyed singing with her every Sunday, accompanied by acoustic guitar and Paraguayan harps.
Even though Santa María is a tranquil village, with no restaurants and only one shop, there were always things to do, such as invitations to visit villagers for a chat and a drink of tereré (a traditional Paraguayan cold herbal tea) and local walks. Having no Wi-Fi helped Jessica to appreciate the importance of taking time to sit, talk and relax. Jessica recommends visiting While in Paraguay, Jessica enjoyed a rich musical life Paraguay, because it’s not in the least bit touristy, the as well teaching. She started a singing group meeting scenery is stunning and its people are openhearted and on Saturdays in the church with a repertoire ranging warm. She hopes to return soon!
OE SPORTS:
OE v School Hockey Match
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n Friday 9 September, the much anticipated annual OE hockey match took place at Exeter School, reported on by Becky Richardson (2006 - 2016). An eclectic mix of OEs faced a well-drilled Exeter 1st XI. Despite feeling slightly out of practice (and rather unfit) after a long summer, the OEs had a strong start, with Jess Wilcock (2005 2016) and Ayesha White (2011 -2016) creating some great opportunities in front of goal. However strong defence led by Liz Ziegler-Evans and great saves from Molly Tettenborn meant the score remained 0-0 at half time. A rousing team talk to the School 1st XI from coach Graham Skinner (1965 - 1971) saw the School team return to the game with new-found pace and determination. Despite some well-timed tackles from the OE back line of Emily Ackland (2008 - 2015) and Hattie Helliar (2005 - 2012), Tabi Evans skilfully found the back of the net to put the School team ahead. A magical performance from Upper Sixth U18 England
star Sophie Jefferson created yet more opportunities for her team, leading to Anna Starling quickly following with a second goal. The determined OE team did not give up, and thanks to a fantastic lead from Em Scott (2014 - 2016), staff member Miss Rhodes made the score 2-1. Sadly, for the OEs, great patterns of play from the young School side saw Anna Starling score her second goal, securing a 3-1 victory for her team. The players thoroughly enjoyed the game and are looking forward to next year’s rematch! Both teams joined the 2015/16 leavers reception at the Pavilion for well-earned refreshments after the game. www.exeterschool.org.uk/alumni | 25
OE Club OE SPORTS:
OE v School Cricket Match
The 1st XI including many Upper Sixth, took on a strong Old Exonian team in an evening T20 game on Friday 1 July. The School batted first and set a pacy run rate with quick fire 30s for Freddie Filor, Matt Marsh, and Paddy Poustie despite some fiery bowling from Jake (2002 - 2009) and Gillam Crouch (2004 - 2014) and Nick Horne (2004 - 2009). The School finished on 176 for 5, setting the OEs facing a tough challenge. Their innings did not start well, with their opener George Greed (2003 - 2008) run out early on, closely followed by James Street (2001 - 2006). However, with Mike Keough (2000 - 2007) at the crease the game started to swing towards the OE team and his steady head and slow accumulation of runs (59 not out) allowed the batsmen at the other
Obituaries Ivor Clarry 1919 - 2016
Head of Classics and Head of Buller House, 1952-1979 Ivor joined the School in 1952, following his war service where he reached the rank of Major, and a teaching post at West Hartlepool Grammar School. He later became a distinguished Head of Classics, contributing to many classicists achieving awards at Oxford. He kept Latin and Greek thriving in the curriculum at a time when their value was called into question. He was a Form 1 teacher, and for 15 years, Housemaster of Buller House, based in Room 4, setting a high standard and taking a strong interest in the welfare of his pupils. An active sportsman himself, he coached rugby 1st, 2nd and U16 sides. He was a bass singer of renown, singing solo parts in classical works, operas, and musicals such as Patience, and shortly before his retirement leading a group of staff in a song and dance routine as Roman soldiers in the memorable staff revue Ms Alice in Blunderland. Outside class, he ran the community service programme, which included pupils tending the
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end to accelerate, including Nick Horne who hit an impressive 40 runs off only 20 balls. Once into their stride, the OEs cruised to a six wicket win in the 19th over, the final score being 1st XI – 176 for 5 and OEs – 179 for 4. Players and supporters enjoyed a convivial post-match Bar-B-Que at the Pavilion organised by Director of Sport and Head of Cricket Andy Mason, who also umpired the game. The new format worked very well with the social event going on late into the evening.
In memoriam
It is with deep regret that we report the passing of the following Old Exonians. vegetable garden behind Emswood. Pupils, colleagues and friends appreciated his firm counsel and advice. Following his retirement in 1979, Ivan continued to sing in Choral Society and visited School regularly for events and OE dinners, most recently in 2010. He played golf with other retired teachers well past his 90th birthday, translated classical works, and tended his own garden. He stayed in touch with several of his former pupils and appreciated their letters and visits. A long life, lived well.
Obituaries John Spencer 1940 - 2016
John was a member of Crossing House from 1951 to 1959 and was a skilled sportsman, gaining School colours in rugby, hockey and cricket. He was Head Boy, vice chair of the Crossing Club and Victor Ludorum 1958-59. He continued his sports after leaving School, winning the Devon Golf Championship aged 19 as an amateur, and playing county and South West hockey. He was latterly resident in Surrey and he attended the Old Exonian Dinner in Exeter on a regular basis, up until 2014.
Helen Hone 1929 - 2016
Helen Hone passed away peacefully in Devon in August 2016 aged 87 years. The wife of the late Robin Hone, Headmaster 1965 – 1979, she will be remembered by OEs as a loyal and enthusiastic member of the School and a good friend to both pupils and teachers, many of whom attended her thanksgiving service. She was particularly supportive of younger staff when they joined the School and helped welcome them into the community.
Bryan Wilson MBE 1932 - 2016
Bryan was a happy and enthusiastic pupil in Drake House from 1940 - 1948. Rugby, cricket and swimming were activities he embraced with natural enjoyment and ability. In his two years of National Service, he earned Sergeant’s stripes; no mean feat. He gained Commissioned Rank during his service with the Army Emergency Reserve becoming a Captain and being awarded the MBE. He later worked hard for SSAFA, the Forces’ charity, chairing the Hampshire Branch. Bryan had a career in management, working for Woolworths, Marks and Spencer, Bel Cheese and then the International Synthetic Rubber Company at Hythe, Hampshire, living nearby. He was a loyal friend, keeping in contact with several OEs all now in their 80s, attending Exeter and London dinners. He is survived by his wife Audrey and daughter Julie. His loyalty, sense of humour and the gusto he put into all his activities will be remembered by all who were privileged to know him.
David J Ley 1937 - 2016
David Ley was in Daw House from 1950 to 1953. In more recent years he lived in Cromer in Norfolk where he was President of the Royal Cromer Golf Club and kept in touch with the School through the magazine.
Frederick L.B. Vigers 1937 – 2016
Fred was in School House from 19481955. As a sportsman, he played 1st XV rugby, and also represented Devon, and was captain of Hockey. He was a Sergeant in the CCF and member of the band. He went to RMA Sandhurst and was commissioned into The Royal Leicestershire Regiment in 1958, serving in Hong Kong, Borneo, Aden and Malta and continuing to play rugby and cricket. After leaving the regular army in 1969, he spent seven years in the TA, reaching the rank of Major. He loved Devon and enjoyed his retirement in Crediton.
John H Goodman 1925 - 2016
John was a member of School House from 1934 to 1943 when he left to join the Royal Armoured Corps. He was a House Prefect and member of the JTC (as the CCF was then known) being awarded the Silver Drumsticks in the band, and School colours for shooting. He latterly lived in Honiton and enjoyed keeping in touch with the School, attending OE dinners from time to time.
Alastair Young 1937 – 2015 Alastair was in School House from 1950 -1954, played a full range of sport and then built up a career in retail management in Devon. He was an active member Isca Hockey Club and Exmouth Cricket Club for over 20 years and was latterly active in Round Table circles and Secretary of Exeter City Disabled Supporters' Association. Alastair lived in Countess Wear where he built up an extensive collection of over 400 plants which he lovingly tended on his mobility scooter. After he passed away, his plant collection was offered to gardeners in Exeter with donations going to Marie Curie Nurses. His memory lives on across the city gardens.
Paul Dunscombe 1953 - 2015
Paul was in Buller House from 1966 – 1971 and studied English and Modern Languages in the Sixth Form. He enjoyed sports and was captain of the Cross Country team. He went on to study English at Mansfield College Oxford and kept in touch with the School through the OE Club. He sadly passed away in London in 2015.
Frederick Cyril Flood 1940 - 2016
Frederick (1948-1958) was a member of Raleigh House. He was a School Prefect and Sergeant in the CCF and had a career as a Chartered Accountant before retiring. Though living in Dunstable, he enjoyed keeping in touch with School and attended dinners and events, most recently in 2008.
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Alumni noticeboard Eight free places announced Chairman of Governors Andrew King (1960 - 1965) announced the creation of free places for children from the local community at Speech Day. Exeter School has received sufficient donations and legacies from former pupils, in addition to ongoing grants from a local charity, to set up eight bursaries for disadvantaged bright children from Exeter.
whose support the School could not provide the widest possible access to children of all backgrounds, which is the hallmark of our School. “In announcing these new free places, the Governors intend this to be the next step in a redoubled effort to enable access to more children from our local community. The financial support of former pupils and families The School intends to establish, from next September, who are in a position eight new free places in the Senior School and Sixth to give is essential Form. Three of these will be offered at 11+ and will to the success of this be called Foundation Bursaries, funded from alumni initiative.” legacies and gifts. Three full bursaries in the Sixth Form will also be offered, funded from the St John’s Hospital The School has Educational Foundation grant. Two further free places, always provided a to be called ‘The George Williams Bursaries’, to significant number study the Sciences in the Sixth Form, have also been of means-tested made possible by a generous bequest and continuing bursaries for those in donations from the estate of a prominent deceased need of support, and Old Exonian. Andrew expressed his heartfelt gratitude these will continue to and that of his fellow Governors to these benefactors, be provided and at the many of whom wish to remain anonymous, but without same level as before. Details of how to donate to the Foundation Bursary Fund are on the alumni pages of the School website under Make a Donation. If you would like to discuss giving to the fund or leaving a legacy, please contact the Headmaster or Director of Alumni.
Forthcoming events
A selection of alumni events is shown below. Details of 2017 events will be published in the next issue of The 1633 in November. The full list of alumni events can be found on the School website or via the Alumni Secretary, Karen Dart. Tickets are available from the School Box Office: www.exeterschool.org.uk/box-office. Tuesday 13 December
Old Exonians v School Football Match, Astroturf, 4pm
Friday 27 January
Edinburgh Reunion, for Exonians in the North and Scotland
Friday 24 February
Exonians Dinner at Downing College, Cambridge
Saturday 25 February
Exonians Dinner at St Hilda’s College, Oxford
Tuesday 16 March March tbc May tbc
Choral Society Concert, Exeter Cathedral Old Exonians v School Netball Match Old Exonians v School Hockey Match Old Exonians v School Golf Day
Tuesday 16 May Saturday 24 June Friday 7 July
London Dinner, Royal Thames Yacht Club, Knightsbridge Oxford Family Picnic, Christ Church, Oxford Old Exonians v School Cricket Match, followed by BBQ
Tuesday 11 July Saturday 16 September
Summer Open Evening and Art Show Old Exonian Day and Annual OE Dinner, Exeter School
THE
We would like to keep in touch with past pupils and staff. You can update your details on the School website by visiting the alumni pages and completing the on-line form under ‘Contact Us’ or via the Alumni Secretary.
Alumni Magazine of Exeter School
01392 458941 alumnisec@exeterschool.org.uk Exeter School Alumni Office Victoria Park Road Exeter EX2 4NS www.exeterschool.org.uk/alumni Twitter: @ExeterSchoolUK Facebook: Exeter School Alumni LinkedIn: Exeter School Alumni (Old Exonians)