ColumnTHE ISSUE 2 2006 Welcome to In 1868 Disraeli wrote to Queen Ha-Ha, sheep and heifers grazing Victoria that “the flag waves again in a Poussinesque landscape. The Column over Stowe which one never There is an atmosphere of hushed expected” after the second Duke of expectation as the hoardings go Buckingham’s bankruptcy. A few up outside the Chapel to demarcate days ago, we all rejoiced in seeing the area where the new girls’ the Union flag fluttering over the boarding house is to be built. newly restored Corinthian Arch to The designs are ready, contracts in this issue: mark Her Majesty the Queen’s signed and the bulldozers will be 80th birthday. moving in next week to demolish • School News...... P2-5 Schools, like many institutions, Wisteria Cottage (fortunately the have cyclical patterns and I am girls have been relocated to the • Old Stoics...... P6-7 delighted to say that Stowe seems refurbished 1 Home Park house). to be enjoying something of a Having welcomed twenty-four new • Old Stoics – Births, renaissance. After one of the largest girls into the 3rd and 4th Forms in which differentiate between the very able Deaths & Marriages...... P7 renovation projects in Europe, the September, we are now well and and those who require more support. Old Stoics News...... P8-9 North and South Fronts look truly on our way to becoming a fully We were delighted to hear that Lavinia • co-educational School. resplendent in the Spring sunshine. Spurr, Jack Randall, Georgina Newman • Old Stoics Sports...... P10 I cannot think of a better view in We are determined that each and Max Kirchoff were successful in their England than the vista which and every Stoic reaches his or Oxbridge applications and we are School Sport...... P10-11 presents itself when you stand on her academic potential. Heads confident that this year’s Upper Sixth will • the South Front Loggia and gaze of Departments have been fulfil our high expectations when the over the gently sloping lawn with instrumental in delivering revised A-level results are published in August. • End Piece...... P12 Stoic cricketers contesting an inter- schemes of work, using ICT This edition of The Column reflects the Stowe-Doku...... P12 house match, golfers teeing off on imaginatively to enhance the way kaleidoscopic variety of activities offered • the 6th hole, the beagles being pupils learn, target-setting for a Stowe education. exercised between the two Vanbrugh examination year groups and lake temples and, beyond the implementing teaching strategies continued on page 2 } An outstanding performance: Senior Congreve’s Photos: Roy Ottaway Roy Photos: Les Misérables (school edition)

Les Misérables is probably the rehearsals and performances. I know “Stowe’s performance rivaled the people’s favourite musical. It was how much the pupils were grateful for London productions.” very encouraging as a Director to having so many dedicated staff to realise that our version lived up to turn to for help with their most the expectations of appreciative testing pieces of recitative and knowledgeable audiences. and harmonies. The standing ovation on Saturday This teamwork extended to other evening was instantaneous and made colleagues and pupils because all the rehearsing and preparation without costumes, a set, lighting worthwhile. All four performances and sound, front of house and box were well received (even the Dress office, makeup and many other Rehearsal turned out to be a full “The finest school production of any work facets involved in the production that we have ever seen.” house!) it was very encouraging for we would never have been able the pupils to realise their production to provide such a ‘professional’ was having such an impact. production. We have an excellent As in all theatre productions, photographic record of the show and certainly with a project of this which I hope you will be able stature, the teamwork involved was to access via our website at: one of the critical factors in the www.stowe.co.uk/news/news/ success. Jonathan Kingston, Hilary 05-06/summer/les_miserables.html Ford and Mark Edwards were all and re-live, like me, some of the “Your front of house team did you proud.” superb in their commitment to all the poignant and emotional highlights.

Lionel Weston, Director School

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Music goes from strength to selected for their dedication, team strength with the orchestra work and agility. They are given tackling an increasingly advice on diet, exercise, sports challenging classical repertoire; psychology and motivation so that the Chapel Choir sang a spiritually they can focus on fulfilling their charged Evensong in the sublime considerable potential. There are Stowe receives £30,000 setting of Christchurch Cathedral, always new opportunities for Oxford and there cannot be many sporting prowess to flourish at schools in the country that can Stowe and I have been delighted Wolfson Grant stage an end of term ‘Last Night of with the recent success of the the Proms’ concert with a rejuvenated rowing club which We are delighted to have been place extensive resources on the programme ranging from Allegri’s competed in its first regatta at awarded a grant of £30,000 from the network for pupils to use when they Miserere to Madonna’s Like a Evesham in late April. We have Wolfson Education Trust (a Trust that worked on their own away from the Prayer. The finale of one thousand also bucked the trend by positively supports educational excellence) to classroom. The Wolfson project voices singing the words of the encouraging field sports and our fund a project to equip the Science compliments these initiatives as it Dambusters’ March followed by beagle pack is widely Department with a mobile suite of facilitates pupil use of ICT in class and Jerusalem could be heard in the acknowledged to be one of the laptops and datalogging equipment. completes the overall picture of how neighbouring village of Dadford! best in the country. Anyone driving Now whole classes can monitor ICT is used to great effect at all levels We are already in the midst of over the Oxford Water in the early experiments electronically, allowing of scientific study. preparing for next term’s Arts evening will be rewarded with the pupils to develop a true The award is further recognition of Festival which we hope will have a sight of a dozen or so Stoics fly- understanding of what is going on the ground breaking work that goes literary flavour as well as the usual fishing in the restocked lakes. in experiments and reactions. The on in our Science Department. There mixture of drama, dance, song, equipment enables laptops to is a clear vision of how ICT can be and magic. The most recent web edition of the connect wirelessly to a wide range Good Schools Guide comments best used to enhance the delivery of A new spirit of competitiveness of scientific sensors as well as the science education and the software positively on the “unspoiled, un- School’s network. suffuses sport at Stowe. Our arrogant behaviour of the pupils”. that has come out of collaborative athletes represent both County More importantly, this esteemed Stowe’s interest in the use of ICT work with Stowe’s scientists is now and National teams and it is a publication reports on “blissfully in Science teaching was sparked off used both nationally and measure of our new-found happy children”. I cannot think of 8 years ago when the Chemistry internationally. Projects involving confidence that last season’s a better endorsement than that. Department was at the centre of a Stowe staff have led them to cricket 1st XI remained unbeaten national project set up by the Nuffield presenting at national conferences in regular school fixtures and our Foundation. This led to the wide as well as working with overseas lacrosse teams had their most spread use of ICT by science teachers scientists. Stowe has led the way for a successful season ever. The Stowe to enhance classroom delivery, much number of years in the area of science Academy is comprised of our most Anthony Wallersteiner work being centred around the use education, this recent project and the successful athletes who are Headmaster of data projectors and interactive support from the Wolfson Foundation whiteboards. This development put in helps to keep us at the forefront.

Sir Peter began his talk by observing that credibility rather than truth is the essential quality of theatre, a play or opera being an act of imagination between performers and audience. Having remarked on the distinguishing features of the language and speech- rhythms of such modern playwrights as Edward Albee, Harold Pinter and Tennessee Williams, he concluded his talk with advice on the speaking of Shakespearian blank verse. He then fielded questions for fully half an hour, his observations on the role of the director being particularly valuable. The evening ended with dinner in the Blue Room. This time, it was students from the Upper Sixth who had the opportunity to approach the great man and to engage him in conversation. Leading actors and actresses from Stowe’s production of Les Misérables (school edition) were prominent participators in conversation at table. Sir Peter, who had earlier expressed his intention to depart by 10.00pm stayed on, with characteristic generosity, for an extra half hour, ensuring that so many of those who wanted the Sir Peter Hall visits Stowe opportunity to speak to him were not disappointed. On Friday 24 February 2006, Stowe’s Literary Society The evening began with a reception in the Gothic For years to come, this memorable evening will be was privileged to be host to Sir Peter Hall, probably Library, where Lower Sixth students of English recalled as an exceptional event in Stowe’s cultural the most eminent of all theatrical directors working in Literature and Theatre Studies had the opportunity to calendar. Our sincere thanks go to Sir Peter for this country since the Second World War. Sir Peter meet the man who had first brought to the theatre honouring us with his presence and for offering us founded the Royal Shakespeare Company, brought several of the texts that they encounter on their A- the benefit of knowledge, experience and wisdom the National Theatre to the South Bank, and was Level courses. Sir Peter was soon encircled by young deriving from a triumphant career spanning over fifty Artistic Director at Covent Garden and Glyndebourne. admirers asking questions. years in the theatre.

2 ColumnTHE

Spiritual & Moral Education Stowe’s Laptop Scheme or SPAM-Ed as it’s now known This is now the second year of enables just that and I’m delighted Stowe’s laptop scheme, with an with the success of the Scheme as it Rabbi Jonathan Sachs, the Britain’s What do we cover? encouraging uptake – over 50% of all enables the ICT Department to fully Chief Rabbi, recently wrote: In the Fourth Form, we look at new pupils opted to purchase support pupils with these laptops. There’s a moment in the Bible that’s relationships – marriage, divorce, through the scheme. This really helps The laptops are very good value with long fascinated me. When Moses virginity, homosexuality, pornography enrich the educational experience as everything that is included as the addressed the Israelites as they were etc. – I am determined that sex is seen they come preloaded with software School is able to pass on the benefits about to leave Egypt after two principally as a part of a relationship used at Stowe, including Microsoft of bulk purchase and volume centuries of exile and slavery, he and not as an isolated physical act. Office and many subject specific licensing and makes no money at all didn’t speak about freedom, or about We then take a look at death, global software packages. They are also out of the Scheme. They really do the land flowing with milk and honey. peacekeeping and the role of the UN, preconfigured to help Stoics make make a very big difference and the Instead he spoke about the duty of secular religions such as humanism, the most of the extensive range of damage insurance has proved very parents to educate their children. materialism, consumerism, and educational resources now available useful too!” maybe even nihilism. Why? Because to defend a country you on the School’s network. With the continuing expansion of need an army; but to defend a In the Fifth Form, the year during The Scheme laptops are fully using IT within the curriculum all civilisation, you need education. which they turn 16, we ask why they supported by the ICT Department pupils should have a laptop to In the midst of league table mania, it’s are at school in the first place… what’s and pupils are even lent a laptop if enable them to get full benefit of all often too easy to forget this, the the point of education? Then, we take theirs has to be sent away for repair. the resources available whatever ultimate purpose of education, and so a look at the interface between The package also includes a 3-year subjects they are studying. Parents this is why Spiritual and Moral Science and Religion. This is followed extended warranty, accidental wishing to purchase though the damage insurance and built in Scheme can contact Stowe’s chosen Education has been on my mind for a by a look at global issues and in wireless configured to work on the partner ‘First Technology’ directly on number of years. I have, over my particular, environmental issues and wireless network that is currently 01844 215100 or ask the Admissions thirteen years of working in schools, international justice. We end the year expanding in the academic zone. Office to send them a copy of the established in my mind several topics by studying the media, and how it Scheme brochure. that I feel ought to be covered and yet plays a large part, not just in reflecting Commenting on the scheme, belong to no area of the curriculum. our values, but actually fashioning James Tearle (Head of ICT) said Some of these I have already managed them in the first place. “The networking of all boarding to squeeze into the ubiquitous Finally, in the Upper Sixth, we look at houses and the use of laptops by General RS syllabus, but there are the two big questions… ‘Who am I?’ pupils are a key part of Stowe’s others that have not been so readily and ‘What am I here for?’… and how educational strategy. Pupils need identified as being to do with religion. they have been answered in the West to have access to online resources Being offered the opportunity of a over the past 2500. Along the way, we whenever and wherever they are clean sheet of paper and a lesson a discover just how much of what has working. The Laptop Scheme week with the Fourth, Fifth and Upper gone before resonates with today’s Sixth was a dream, and I have drawn experiences. What can we learn from up schemes that scratch the itches the great thinkers whose writings that I feel need scratching. have helped forge today’s culture? A highly beneficial by-product of this The lessons are generally discussion move on the part of the School has based… I am aware that very often, been to separate General RS from the pupils are in a position to learn Certificated RS, the latter of which is from each other and not just from an academic subject of great stature, me… and I’m just getting the hang of but which frustratingly finds itself video streaming and the use of IT to confused with the former and make things even more interesting! consequently dismissed as a Oh, and why SPAM-Ed? Well to lightweight subject by those who initialise ‘Spiritual and Moral’ and ought to know better. Finally, by then to study it with the Chaplain XX Group introducing SPAM-Ed, Stowe becomes might just get me locked up, and to Last term saw the re-introduction of on language. This Summer term sees one of the first schools in the country reverse the order… M & S… is just too the XX Group – a name long a debate on Apartheid, a case-study to formally acknowledge through the sad to contemplate. So, SPiritual And associated at Stowe with the on Chaos Theory, and a discussion of timetable the fact that School Moral Education it is! academically most able students in how we define our own ‘normality’, Inspectors now assess schools for the along with many other topics. In Robert Jackson, Chaplain the Lower School. With this ‘re- manner in which they educate their addition to these presentations are launch’ we will be providing a full and pupils ‘Spiritually, Morally, Socially, weekly prize-problems, a termly challenging extra-curricular and Culturally’. outing, and small group meetings to programme for the Academic Scholars discuss academic progress and and other nominated Stoics in the 3rd targets. The current group have taken and 4th Forms, by introducing them up the challenge with such great 100% in AS Geography to off-syllabus areas, and giving them enthusiasm that we feel sure that Julian Nesbitt and Tom Stanton both got 100% on their AS Physical freedom to investigate further on successive years of our brightest Geography module. This continues the trend from last year when two girls their own. Meeting most weeks, the junior Stoics will continue to exploit got 100% in the same exam. Stoics have enjoyed presentations on this new venture with the same Dominic Heath got 100% in a very demanding A2 essay paper, a first for a subjects as diverse as logic problem keenness, contributing to the Stoic in this particular module. solving, Picasso’s Guernica, DNA burgeoning academic focus across fingerprinting and the effect of gender the School.

3 School

Creative Writing Forum 2006

In March the Creative Writing Forum held its annual Fiction. Lavinia also performed her own work, recitations. This year’s programme was particularly a poem entitled ‘Bridges’, commenting on the well balanced, with contributors from the Fourth, distance between people with images of Fifth, Lower Sixth and Upper Sixth Forms. painful division. The menu was appetisingly varied: seven short Classics visit Edmund Jones (Grafton) and Edward Cowan (Bruce) stories (or parts of longer prose works) were offered two very ‘English’ short stories involving an performed, together with a total of seven poems, amusing treatment of social events that go to Greece or collections of shorter poems. Drama was the disastrously wrong. Edmund chose a christening only major genre not represented this year (a hint A party of 13 made up of Fifth and Sixth Formers and Edward a village fete. Both performers showed for next year’s participants?). studying Classics set off on 24 March for a packed their versatility as actors in their ability to switch tour of Southern Greece. The visit took in 18 sites Jonathan Wale (Walpole) and Charlotte Matthews between dramatic voices while performing their and 2 museums in 7 busy days. (Lyttelton) were the youngest contributors, readings. Edmund’s story was the first instalment The highlights were many, but the 3 most striking Jonathan with a sensitive, engaging poem about of a planned trilogy, ‘Hatched, Matched, Classical sites had to be Olympia, home to the ‘watching history walk by’ over Stowe’s Oxford Despatched’ (presumably parallel scenes of a original Olympic games, and sanctuary to the Greek Bridge, and Charlotte with an amusing, tense short christening, a marriage and a funeral), while god Zeus, Delphi, home to the famous Oracle, and story exploring the thoughts and feelings of a girl Edward’s tale, ‘Edwin Seeks Revenge’, was the sanctuary to the god Apollo, seen as the sun set inquisitive about the contents of her room-mate’s sequel to the short story that he read at last year’s over the Corinthian Gulf; and the Acropolis, a diary. Charlotte’s reading of her work was recitations. If you were not present to hear sanctuary to Athene, patron goddess of Athens, particularly accomplished. Edward’s reading, then you may never know how looking across the sprawling Greek capital city. The Fifth Form contributions were all short stories. topiary can be an effective means of revenge! Other highlights were the Souvlaki (Pork kebabs) Tim Field (Bruce) offered a painful tale about a little Edmund Jones also offered a range of poetry: a that were on offer everywhere, James Randall-Coath girl coming to recognise the horrifying truth about selection of his Shakespearian limericks, a satirical and his Greek dancing, the wonderfully efficient and her father. Humphrey Wood (Chandos) told of an poem in dramatic monologue form (‘Building clean Metro system (built for the Olympic games), everyday tragedy in suburbia, the re-possession of Bridges’, winner of the 2005 Roxburgh Senior Prize Charlie Margesson winning the final race in the a family’s home, while Conor Curtis (Bruce) chose a for Poetry), a gently nostalgic idyll and a witty, Pythian stadium at Delphi, the acoustics in an similar suburban setting for a very different story thought-provoking portrait of a food fight on empty theatre at Epidavors (mind you, it was 8.30 in of murderous marital tension. Remembrance Day. the morning) and a sunset meal looking out on the Aegean, beside the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Catriona Beadel (Nugent) represented the Lower The evening concluded with a chance for the Sounion. We were also in Napflion for the Sixth. Her disturbing poem, ‘Arbeit Macht Frei’, was audience to chat to the writer/performers. Independence Day parades of 25 March, where we a vivid precursor for those on the annual Stowe As a result of the evening’s readings, Charlotte were able to enjoy watching many Greeks in School Pitt Society trip to Eastern Europe, which Matthews was awarded a Bene as the most national dress, and lots of nationalistic flag waving. takes in the Auschwitz/Birkenau extermination- promising newcomer. Edward Cowan won the 2006 camp, the subject of Catriona’s poem. Hayward Prize for Reading. The 2006 Harding Prize We saw history unfolding before us, from the Bronze age citadel of Mycenae (and the supposed tomb of From the Upper Sixth, Charles Reynolds (Bruce) for Reading went to Edmund Jones. Finally, the Agamemnon), to the Classical splendour of treated the audience to another of his wryly congratulations and thanks of all present went to Periclean Athens, the Hellenistic influence of the humorous, macabre tales, read by Lavinia Spurr Mr. Steven Thompson (Chairman of the Creative athletics stadium at Nemea, Roman influence on (Nugent). Charles’s story, ‘Crossing the Line’, had Writing Forum) for continuing to foster such a high Athenian sites, a Byzantine church at Osios Lucas, won the 2005 Gavin Maxwell Senior Prize for standard of literary talent at Stowe. Venetian architecture at Napflion, and the modernisation and improvements to Athens for the recent games. All were bound together by the Stowe wins the prizes intense pride felt by the Greeks in everything that their country has to offer, and their desire to show it Thames Valley Young Musician Competition off to everyone who shows an interest. The competition was held in the Silk Hall at Radley We also got to see such treasures as the helmet of College. Craig Greene was one of 13 competitors, all Miltiades (victorious Athenian general at Marathon), of Grade 8+ standard, seven of whom were pianists, the bronze statue of Poseidon (or Zeus) in throwing and all playing at an extremely high level creating a pose, the death mask of Agamemnon (made in gold, demanding competitive environment. In the first and found by the infamous archaeologist round all the competitors played one item of their designing an arm to allow picking up and Schliemann), those of the Caryatids that have not own choice. Craig chose the piano, played the manipulating a radioactive tennis ball from a safe been shipped to England – a bit of a sore point here Mendelssohn Variations Serieuses, and was one of 5 distance. The competition is similar to Scrap Heap with the Greeks, and Elgin is not too popular there selected for the final. In this, each had to play a 20-30 Challenge – but on a smaller scale. minutes programme, including the piece performed either – and vases decorated by the Greek masters 1st Prize, Advanced: Advanced Team 2: in the 1st round. Craig added the Bach toccata in E including Exekias. James Bradshaw, Rory Brabant, Mia Sparrow, minor to the Mendelssohn performance. We are All took the opportunity to partake in the culture, Chloe Dorrington. delighted to report that Craig won 1st prize, the and learn about a history that was religious, Constance Bishop Memorial prize, (of £100) and the 2nd Prize, Advanced: Advanced Team 1: military, patriotic, artistic, theatrical, athletic, opportunity to play a recital in Abingdon later this Hamish Ritchie, Anika Nixdorf, Olivia Pendered. political, mathematical and philosophical. The year. Many congratulations to Craig. 3rd Prize, Intermediate: Stephen Pearcy, Miles names of Pericles, Themistocles, Plato, Aristotle, Design and Technology Tournament Crosby, Sam Hunter, Richard Gordon Coldbrook. Praxiteles, Pheidias, Heracles and Euripides were all The Rotary Club Design and Technology Tournament Intermediate Team 2 were invited to participate in the heard in normal conversation, and I hope that all 2006 at Aylesbury saw Stowe’s best results ever. This Advanced section due to the effectiveness of their those who went will return to Greece when they get result is especially noteworthy because we were up solution: Monty Lewis, Freddie Prendergast, Natalie the opportunity, to investigate further. against some stiff competition. The task involved McDaid, Mark Goodenough. Chris Townsend, Classics Teacher

4 ColumnTHE

Prep School Choral Day

Photo kindly taken by a London Bobby In 1994 the first Stowe Choral Day was Prayer Book. Every year they are held with around 300 choristers plus challenged musically and yet when An Observance for the Stowe Chapel Choir. What made they all come together it works and the this event special is that it was not sound is inspiring. This year’s anthem Commonwealth Day 2006 conducted by one person but the was Harwood’s ‘O how glorious’ which conductors and organists came from has long sinuous vocal lines and very The Observance Service was held strive for to achieve the Commonwealth the ranks of the visiting Music Directors little in the way of a ‘catchy’ tune and at Westminster Abbey on 13 March. aim, summed up in six affirmations of the Prep Schools themselves, yet it worked and every chorister felt a Among the celebrated guests were that rest upon values and principles supported by the Stowe music staff. great sense of achievement after its the Prince of Wales and the Duchess that are endorsed by the traditions of It was a traditional Choral Evensong, performance. The setting of the of Cornwall. Four Stoics Lavinia Spurr, all the representative countries, values with challenging music. The canticles canticles was Stanford in A which Alice Wiggett, Charlotte Matthews and principles that sustain the were Bairstow in D, Smith Responses, needs two choirs and they coped with and Harry Burke were accompanied Commonwealth and nourish its the introit was Pitoni’s ‘Cantate this brilliantly. by Mr. Longworth, along with distinctive character. Domino’ and the anthem ‘Blessed be Enjoyed by so many schools, the Stowe 1,000 other young people, diplomats Patricia Rozario, the world renowned the God and Father’ by S.S.Wesley. It Prep. School Choral Day has become and dignitaries representing opera singer, sang a moving piece by was a huge success and though the their Choral Day as they make their the Commonwealth. Sergei Rachmaninoff that represented music may change every year the contribution by singing, conducting, A steel band introduced the procession the need to speak up to be heard in the format of the day has not, with hour playing and choosing the music. The of flags of the Commonwealth world. The Westminster Boys Choir long rehearsals interspersed with catering staff cope brilliantly as the countries which began the service. represented the voice of youth within breaks followed by Evensong. In School doubles in number and lunch The wonderfully colourful display of the Commonwealth. The highlight of February 2006 there were 630 and supper have to be found for costumes created a powerful contrast the entertainment was definitely the choristers taking part from 25 schools, everyone. The Tuck Shop is of course to the dramatic interior of the Abbey. Bromley Valley Jets Gymnastics Team. some of these had come from as far popular with the young choristers and away as Yorkshire. The Commonwealth Challenge for this They performed fantastic feats of agility the grounds are enjoyed but at the end year – ‘Health and Vitality’ – was and strength. One of the most daring Anyone who visits Stowe knows that it of the day there is nothing that can explored through personal testimonies was to throw a gymnast into a back-flip is a very special place with its compare with the sound of 800 voices and words from sporting heroes, such and then catch her precariously, eighteenth century Palladian buildings, singing some of the great music of the as Ade Adepitan MBE, the Olympic without protection from the hard stone with its own grounds of 750 acres there English Cathedral repertoire and long wheelchair athlete, and various floor of the Abbey. They exemplified is plenty of space for the young may this event continue. the health and vitality that can be religious representatives. It is choristers to burn off energy. The John Cooper Green, particularly compelling when delegates achieved through sport and showed format of the Service is that of the 1662 Director of Music at Stowe from Christianity, Islam, Baha’ism and what can be achieved if we understand Sikhism, amongst others, unite to and adhere to the Commonwealth deliver one message. Personal stories challenge; and that, after all, was the of combating disease and overcoming underlying intent of the service. disability were inspiring and In all, it was a fascinating, fun and demonstrated what can be achieved stimulating day, giving us a better through perseverance and teamwork. insight into the workings of the These accounts presented the exact Commonwealth and the reasons for its marked characteristics of what we must existence in the 21st Century. Drama team visit Maids A2 Drama Practicals

Moreton First School On 8 and 9 March the twenty A2 Drama the lake but due to poor weather the and Theatre studies students took Stoics re-located to the swimming Nick Bayley, Head of Drama, and four credit to themselves and the School. part in their major practical exam. pool. Here they proceeded to Nugent girls, Cressida Bonas, Emily This kind of community liaison is vital, Each Stoic had to perform three promenade from changing room to Ansell, Olivia Collins and Amber particularly in small village schools contrasting roles in a choice of scene pool side including a brief spell rowing Wyles went to Maids Moreton First who do not have access to visiting or extract from a pre-1900 play, a post from the deep end to the shallow! School on 15 March to run a professional companies who can help 1900 play and one that they had We also had an ‘Importance of Being movement/dance session for the produce this kind of creative work. devised themselves. Earnest’ in the Music Room. 4-7 year olds at the school who were taking part in a multi-cultural week, As always we had a fine eclectic mix Many of the devised scenes were focusing on Africa. They created a of material ranging from the standards heavily influenced by the theories jungle setting and encouraged the like Chekhov, Ibsen, Wilde and and practices of Berholt Brecht. T youngsters to become animals Shakespeare to the more he material was challenging and searching for food and water. The contemporary such as Albee, Russell, contemporary. We had a piece about Stowe girls were active in their help Godber and Ayckbourn. The pieces the 100th soldier to be killed in Iraq and encouragement, working with a were imaginatively staged in the and a piece about the rise in the cult small group to create a sequence Dobinson Theatre and the new Studio, of celebrities! which was then performed to others. as well as on location around the All Stoics involved showed a real The Stoics were sensitive and caring School. One piece ‘Three Men in a commitment to their work and we await towards the little ones and were a Boat’ was to be performed down by some excellent results in the summer.

5 Old Stoics

From the Chairman I am delighted and honoured to have taken over from Paul Calkin as Chairman of the Old Stoic Society on the 11th May following our AGM. I would like to pay tribute to Paul for his 3 years of Chairmanship, during which he has devoted a great deal of time and energy to taking the Society forward. In my personal and professional life in I have remained in touch with many Old Stoics since leaving Stowe in 1969. Recently I have also been Life after Stowe, a Stowe parent (my son Harry left Cobham in 2004) and this brings me to the theme of this article: the Old Stoic Society and the School are by Simon Clegg, CBE (Chatham 78) undergoing a period of positive change. Joining the Army would have been a Association as its Assistant Paul and I have been working for some months with the Committee natural step for me after having been General Secretary. to develop a broader vision for the Old Stoic Society making it more Stowe CCF’s Senior Under Officer; the There I took on various roles before meaningful to Old Stoics and to be able to offer greatly improved Regular Commissions Board had other becoming the BOA’s Chief Executive networking and other benefits. ideas! Following a two year spell as a in 1997. I have managed British trainee quantity surveyor and time as Those of you living in the UK will have received our expanded athletes at the last 11 Olympic and a TA private soldier in the Parachute Programme of Events for 2006 and you will see that we are developing Olympic Winter Games, including the Regiment, I eventually made it to a much wider choice of activities for Old Stoics both at national and highly successful team in Sydney. Sandhurst in 1980. international level. My first project on becoming Chief On commissioning I was posted to Executive was, together with a small We are presently planning a number of specialist networking groups to Germany and joined a unit which had team, to conceive and develop an bring Old Stoics together in business and leisure interests. Old Stoics dominated Army skiing for decades. Olympic bid for London which I had to generally appreciate and enjoy each others company and we would like Over the next 7 years I balanced my sell to both the Government and Ken to encourage strong personal networking in the future. We would service commitments, including an Livingstone before handing the welcome any ideas on this subject. operational tour in Northern Ireland project over to Barbara Cassani and We are also investigating offering a range of member benefits where and overseas tours in Kenya, Falkland subsequently to Sebastian Coe. Remaining on the board of the bid Old Stoics might offer other members discounts or added value in Islands, Cyprus, Hong Kong, Australia, Brunei and Malaysia, with my sporting committee, I was one of 3 UK providing services or business opportunities. A number of people have aspirations. After four successful signatories, together with the come forward with suggestions for member benefits and we are seeking winter seasons winning major President of the IOC, on the London to develop this. trophies I was seconded for 12 host city contract. I continue as a The Old Stoic Society is your Society and our challenge is to encourage months to manage the British main board director on the London you to fully engage with the Society and the School and benefit from its Biathlon team (cross country skiing Organising Committee and am now membership. Please feel free to contact John Bridgwood or me with any and shooting) in 1984-5 and then the focused on delivering Team GB to 4th thoughts you may have regarding the aims of the Society and how national development squads in place in the 2012 medal table, a it might help you. 1985-88. I attended the 1988 Olympic somewhat ambitious target! Winter Games in Calgary, again on My family association with Stowe is a Finally, I urge you to take part in some of our new events and activities secondment from the Army and after long and happy one; my father and 2 which I hope and believe you will find most enjoyable. managing Team GB’s sole ski jumper, brothers are also Old Stoics, and my John Arkwright (Cobham 69) Eddie ‘The Eagle’ Edwards, I was son Toby followed us into Chatham invited to join the British Olympic last autumn.

and left the reader in no doubt about his likes and operas of Verdi and by a memorable visit to Oxford David dislikes. He also wrote a biography of the soprano, with the Music Society for a performance of Aida, Kiri Te Kanawa, and did a series on his favourite with the great Constance Shacklock as Amneris. operas on the BBC World Service. Where food was He also helped to found the Gramophone Society, Photo: Matt Lidbury Matt Photo: Fingleton concerned, he was both gourmet and gourmand, now no doubt time-expired, whilst at Stowe. (Chatham 59) and the rich meals he described in loving detail in David arrived at Stowe having suffered a a column in the Spectator shocked some of his dislocated hip in a schoolboy prank at his prep David Fingleton (Chatham more puritanical readers. 59) died on February school. This put an end to any sporting activity and His combative nature and his lifelong interests 18th, 2006, in the London left him lame for the rest of his life. But he thrived were already in evidence during his time at Stowe. Clinic at the age of 64. as one of Bill McElwee’s history students and won As a Jew, though never a practicing one, he was Always set on becoming a barrister, a profession an exhibition to University College, Oxford, where that suited his quick intelligence and his extrovert occasionally subjected to some disagreeable he read modern history. name-calling, but gave his persecutors in return an character, he practiced for a while at the bar, David had a gift for friendship and his wide circle dealing in criminal cases, and was later appointed articulate verbal lashing they did not easily forget. of friends included many young people to whom he a stipendiary magistrate. Ill-health compelled him He and his study-mate would compensate for the gave unstinting help and encouragement as they to retire early, but gave him more time to dreadful school food of those days by importing a embarked on their careers. He is survived by his concentrate on his many other interests. stock of such delicacies as Plumrose tinned Pâté at the start of each term, and the aroma of their wife, the writer Clare Colvin, sister Elizabeth and David wrote for leading national magazines and percolated Blue Danube coffee perfumed the air of brother John (Chatham 66) who, in his memory, newspapers on food, wine and music, and have donated to Stowe his 20-Volume New Groves particularly on opera, which was the art form that Chatham House on Sunday mornings. David’s love Dictionary of Music and Musicians. gave him the greatest pleasure. His style was lively of opera was fostered by the infectious enthusiasm of his housemaster, Alasdair Macdonald, for the David Blow (Chatham 59)

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Mrs H S Atkinson [nee Bolland] G A Irvine (Grenville 90) Marriages (Lyttelton 96) to George and Victoria, a daughter The Pineapple C D Bird (Lyttelton 78) Henrietta to Ryan Atkinson on Silvia Rose on 26 Apr 06, sister to Christopher to Victoria Harrison 21 May 05. Archie and Arthur. on 17 Jun 06. Ball, 1951 Mrs D Devi Talukdar [nee Devi] T D McEwen (Chatham 90) G S Tetlow (Temple 84) (Lyttelton 97) to Tristan and Paula, a son vintage Simon to Katherine Shiffner Max on 24 Jan 06. on 17 Dec 05. Now that the Old Stoic Society M W Pumfrey (Chandos 90) Mrs J D Waddell [nee Miller] is reviving the Pineapple Ball, to to Matt and Lucy, a son (Stanhope 84) Jack William Arthur on 25 Jan 06. be held on Saturday, 22nd July, Jane to Adam Waddell on 24 Jun 04. a look at how the Ball used to be Mrs A Christodoulou [nee Klat] M J Bartlett (Temple 85) makes a fascinating comparison. (Nugent 91) Michael to Anna Pare on 10 Sept 05. With thanks to Michael Sandwith to Angela and Stelios, a daughter Caspar Shand Kydd was Best Man. (Walpole 40), who acted as Sophia on 24 Jun 05, a sister for Treasurer for the 1951 Ball, for P R A Shackleton (Walpole 87) Athos. Paul to Lisa in Jan 04. the following notes: Mrs L J R Jack [nee Farr] (Nugent 91) The Ball was held on Wednesday, Mrs S V Noton [nee Flynn] (Nugent 89) Durga to Ranjit on 14 Jan 06. Pictured to Laura and James, a son Selina to Stuart Noton on 4 Mar 06. 10th January, at the Grosvenor with Durga are Ariane von Boch, Robert Cameron on 12 Feb 04. House Hotel, Park Lane. Tickets A T Talbot Rice (Cobham 89) Karina Friesen and Georgina Rolt. were 2 guineas each, including Kassim Lawal also attended. Deaths dinner, and 650 guests attended. Mrs A V Salt [nee Macfarlane] Mrs R Shahani (fomer staff) The after-dinner cabaret was (Lyttelton 97) on 5 Feb 06. performed by Kenneth Horne Alice to Tom Salt on 10 Sep 05. (later of the radio show ‘Round In attendance were Jane Collingwood, O E Craster, TD, MA, FSA (Cobham 34) Kate Copper, Kate Pearce and Emma the Horne’ fame) and Richard on 29 Jan 06. Johnston. Murdoch. Music was provided by I Earle, TD (Chatham 34) on 1 Mar 06. Tommy Kinsman and his Band, I H Nicholson (Grafton 35) on 9 Feb 06. and an eightsome reel was danced Births at 1.00 a.m. P B Calkin (Lyttelton 81) Dr D A Barker (Walpole 36) on 12 Oct 05. The proceeds from the sale of to Paul and Nicole, a son programmes by 8 boys from Jasper on 19 Apr 06. W M G Brown (Grafton 36) on 2 Jan 06. the Stowe Club for Boys (the Alexander to Annabel on 25 June 05. G S Jackson (Grenville 81) J M Icke (Cobham 37) on 14 Apr 05. ‘Pineapple Club’), the sale of to Giles and Lucy, a daughter C D R Wolseley Brinton (Lyttelton 89) Sir Henry Yellowlees, KCB, FRCP, FRCS pineapples and a tombola raised Jemima May on 7 Mar 05. Charles to Emily in Sep 02. (Chatham 37) on 22 Mar 06. £600 for the Club. R G Verdon-Roe (Bruce 83) Mrs L J R Jack [nee Farr] (Nugent 91) D R Barbour (Cobham 38) The pineapples in question, which to Bobby and Sophia, a daughter on 30 Dec 05. at that time of food rationing were Olympia on 18 Apr 06. a rare and exotic fruit, were N J Hughes (Grafton 85) Dr R C Roxburgh, MA, MD, FRCP donated by a dozen or so local to Nick and Cindy, a son (Walpole 38) on 21 Nov 05. fruit traders and sold at the Ball Edward Louis Osborne on 13 Jul 04. Dr R H Hansell (Walpole 39) for ten shillings each. S M W Simpson (Walpole 86) on 6 Dec 05. to Mark and Sue, a daughter The tombola prize list reflected the N R T Hay (Bruce 39) on 1 Oct 05. time, with items including a brace Eleanor Roase Helen on 30 Dec 05. Sqdn Ldr J P Bentley(Cobham 40) of pheasants donated by the Lord P H Saville (Chandos 87) on 18 Mar 06. Huntingfield (Old Stoic); 2 boxes to Paul and Simone, a son of 50 cigarettes donated by William Artur Maciel on 6 Dec 05. Dr G M Scott, MC, MB (Grafton 41) Harrods; 6 pairs of silk stockings P R A Shackleton (Walpole 87) on 22 Mar 06. donated by Etam Ltd.; and a Laura to James Jack in Apr 03. to Paul and Lisa, a daughter P P Bagshawe (Grenville 46) selection of whiskies and liqueurs Daisy in Sep 04. on 25 Jun 05. C A Mahood (Grenville 93) donated by Mr Denis Rowlatt and Mrs E J Willcox [nee Lascelles] D I Hird (Chatham 47) on 12 May 05. the other Old Stoics of Calcutta! Christian to Sarah-Jane Bond (Nugent 87) on 3 Dec 05. to Jane and Mark, a daughter G P Tobin (Grenville 47) on 2 Apr 06. Kiki Isabella on 17 Mar 05. Lord Headfort (Chandos 50) R B Pumfrey (Chandos 88) on 21 Oct 05. to Rob and Helen [nee Mills] M S Turnbull (Bruce 50) on 2 Jan 06. Pineapple Ball 2006 promises (Stanhope 85), a son Peter Frederick on 18 Oct 05. Dr H J Lloyd (Temple 51) on 4 Feb 06. to be another vintage year Mrs V Aylward [nee Sayers] E Luddington (Cobham 53) in Apr 06. (Stanhope 89) The Ball will commence with a champagne reception at 7.30pm, with D M Fingleton (Chatham 59) to Victoria and Stuart, a son dinner at 8.30pm. After dinner there will be dancing to the Rough on 18 Feb 06. Maximilian Jeremy on 24 Oct 05. Diamonds, led by Oliver Croom-Johnson (Temple 69) and the Chance J F M Monkhouse (Cobham 64) Discotheque until 2.00am. Tickets cost £85.00 and profits will go towards Mrs S A E Heath [nee Pearce] on 24 Nov 05. the Stowe Club that still provides facilities and support for under- (Stanhope 89) Dr I A R Jenkins, BS, MRCS (Bruce 68) privileged children in the Harrow Road area of London. Accommodation at to Sarah and Dominic, a son on 5 Feb 06. Stowe School is available at additional cost. All members of the Stowe Henry on 22 Dec 04. community – Old Stoics, parents and staff – are welcome to attend. C D R Wolseley Brinton (Lyttelton 89) W G Ashcroft (Cobham 71) Please contact the Old Stoic Office for further details and bookings. to Charles and Emily, sons William in on 19 Mar 06. Feb 04 and Archie in Dec 05. P D Jeffreys (Chandos 79) in Apr 05.

7 Old Stoics

News

P T Hancock (former staff) R K B Hankinson (Walpole 58) G C M Fenwick (Walpole 74) Peter has been retired from the Chaplaincy since 1994, Richard lives in the USA and has recently retired from his George opened a second antique shop during 2005. but still still keeps his hand in with the occasional service. ‘desk job’ as Editor of Princeton University Journal ‘Pop. He now has one in Broadway and another in Chipping Index’. He is now coaching Princeton University’s women’s Camden, selling 17th, 18th and early 19th century W E H Vernon (former staff) squash team. furniture and accessories. William and his wife, Emma, are very happy at St Ronan’s Prep School, where William has been Headmaster since A J Beatty (Cobham 59) M R Samuelson (Chatham 74) 2003. They are both enjoying overseeing the School’s Angus worked with the IT company, ICL, for many years and Since leaving the University of East Anglia, Mark has spent development and resurgence as a leading Prep School in is now a freelance Programme Planning Consultant helping the last 25 years in various aspects of the media and has the South East. blue chip companies with large IT projects. recently left Sky’s History Channel. He is currently ‘resting’ prior to considering his future as a cheesemaker and A G Bowie (Temple 25) H P B Edwards (Grafton 59) picture restorer. We believe that Gordon is the sole remaining Old Stoic Henry was a founding director of Anglia Farmers, the from the original 99 that first came to Stowe with JF in 1923. country’s largest farmers’ purchasing group. He is currently S M Springer (Chandos 74) If there are any other living 99ers out there, please let the Chairman of the Norfolk Game Conservancy Committee. Shaun is CEO of Napier Scott Executive Search, OS Office know! Gordon was in the Indian army and retired specialising in headhunting within the front office sector during the partition, when Pakistan came into being. He R M H Griffiths (Grenville 59) of financial services. has 3 daughters and 1 OS grandson, Andrew Hardie Mark was awarded the Louis Prangey Award (Chandos 85). (Founders’ Medal) by the Federation Internationale N P Staheyeff (Cobham 75) des Ingenieurs Conseils. Nick has been appointed CFO of eBay’s European business, G B Holt (Chandos 30) based in Bern, Switzerland. Geoffrey is living in Sydney, Australia, and thoroughly R A C Thompson (Grafton 60) enjoys his active life, despite being in his 90’s! He is going Robert retired as the Managing Director of Bulrush R D Austin (Cobham 76) to celebrate his 94th Birthday with 20 friends on a cruise to Horticulture in 2000, but remains a non-executive Director. Robin is a member of the Legislative Assembly of British New Zealand. Columbia, Canada. A D G Shillington (Chatham 61) F P D de Bourg (Grenville 40) Anthony works part-time as Development Director of the J W H Fitzherbert (Bruce 76) Francis is living in Switzerland and works as a travel guide. Trinity Foundation for Christianity and Culture and is Julian attended a family gathering of Fitzherberts from Chairman of the BACAB (Buckingham Area Community around the world in June 2005, which was held at the D B Eaglesfield (Temple 42) Advice Bureau) Foundation. ancestral home, Swynnerton Hall, Staffordshire. 150 After writing ‘The Bugatti Book’ some years ago, FitzHerberts gathered from all around the world, including Barry is now writing ‘Bugatti Peripherals’. He is a past J D Goodwin (Chatham 62) the USA, New Zealand and Australia. owner of 4 Bugattis. John has just completed 40 years with The Investment C R Shackleton (Chandos 76) Bank UBS and on his retirement he plans to resume his J L T Smith (Cobham 47) Charles makes furniture in Bridgewater, Vermont, USA. Any education (in affectionate tribute to former teachers such John has scored a literary double with 2 articles in the passing Old Stoics are welcome to visit – more details from as Brian Stephan, Jo Bain, Bill McElwee and Simon Stuart). ‘Hounds Magazine’ and the ‘Heythrop Hack’ (the magazine www.shackletonthomas.com. of the famous Heythrop Hunt). The articles describe his He married Joanna (nee Bell, one of the first girls at Stowe) hunting experiences over the past 65 years. A former in 1986. J W Morton (Bruce 77) newspaper journalist and PR man, John was the Master/ Bill competed in his Alfa Romeo GTV at the Historic Sports J Cunningham-Reid (Cobham 63) Huntsman of the Staffordshire Beagles in the 1950’s. Car Club for 70’s roadsports and came 2nd in his class with After 30 years in the advertising, public relations and wins at Cadwell Park and Snetterton and 2nd place at R H F Cox (Temple 48) music business, John changed career in 2001 and now Donnington, Oulton Park and Thruxton. He continues with In January 2005 Richard was re-elected to the Guernsey works as a counsellor and psychotherapist, specialising his organic farm business in Warwickshire. States, as an Alderney Representative. He is also a in the treatment of addictive disorders. member of the Advisory Council of CARE International UK. B E Nereli (Chatham 77) S Channing-Williams (Chandos 64) Ben is Medical Director of the East Kent Partnership Trust. J F Walker (Chatham 48) Simon produced ‘The Constant Gardener’, nominated for Julian is a Director of the British Development Group, a both the Oscars and the Baftas. D M Bevan (Chatham 78) consortium of companies involved in the reconstruction of Mark is a Senior Client Partner at Coutts and Co. Kurdish Northern Iraq. C R S Manson (Cobham 67) Chris now lives in South West France and is happy to S P Clegg (Chatham 78) F D A Levitt (Chandos 54) assist any Old Stoics who wish to have advice on homes, Simon, who is Chief Executive of the British Olympic David is due to retire in May 2006 after over 30 years as rentals or holidays in the area. His advice would be Association, was made a CBE in the New Year Honours for a founding partner in Levitt Bernstein – a multi disciplinary totally unbiased, although any MG owner may also his part in the successful London Olympics bid team. architectural practice, employing over 100 members be offered a glass of wine! Contact Chris on of staff. [email protected]. E St J Hall (Walpole 78) Edward is currently working for Strutt and Parker estate J B Hamer (Grenville 55) N P Thomas (Bruce 68) agents, based in Newbury. John is involved in raising awareness and funds for the Neil has spent the past 20 years as a Consultant Motor Neurone Disease Association, whose head office is Orthopaedic Surgeon and now specialises exclusively in M S Turner (Chandos 78) David Niven House, named after the Old Stoic who suffered knee surgery. He is a past President of the British Mike worked in industry in Operations Management (UK from MND. Association for Surgery of the Knee (BASK) and is currently and Australia) for 15 years, then with Accenture for 5 years President of the European Society of Sports Traumatology around the Asia Pacific region. He now operates as an A D G Oldrey (Walpole 55) Knee Surgery and Arthrosuopy (ESSKA). Nigel Rossiter independent consultant offering strategic supply chain management services under the trading name of David has recently retired from office as the Deputy Senior (Cobham 81) has recently joined Neil at the NHS unit as a Turneround Industries Pty Limited, based in Tasmania. Steward of The Jockey Club and President of the trauma surgeon. Thoroughbred Breeders Association. In October 1995, 3 J J O Cameron (Lyttelton 79) consecutive foals, bred from one of David’s mares, each N Downing (Lyttelton 69) Jamie founded a specialist Merchant Bank 2 years ago – won a race on consecutive days in England. This is thought Nigel represented Great Britain in the Triathlon World Climate Change Capital – and this has grown from 3 to be the first time this has happened since racing started. Championships in Hawaii last October. members of staff to 60. The company raises capital in clean D M H Reece (Walpole 55) D F McDonough (Cobham 71) energy and the emerging carbon market, to offer hope of a Donald retired as a vicar in 2004. David is a Trustee of Cancer Backup and on the Executive positive financial response to climate change. Committee of the Royal Hospital Chelsea Appeal (along J L Tate (Bruce 55) H D Gregson-Williams (Chatham 80) After a varied career in industry, mainly in property and with fellow OS, Sir Michael Craig-Cooper). Harry continues to compose film scores in Hollywood. His consultancy, Jeremy has retired to the Algave. J S Sutcliffe (Chandos 71) recent credits include ‘The Chronicle of Narnia’, ‘Kingdom In 2003 James was part of a successful international of Heaven’ and ‘Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason’; he is L E Bentall (Chatham 57) currently working on ‘Shrek 3’. After selling Bentalls plc 3 years ago, Edward has been ternder to build and operate a new deep sea container keeping himself busy. He is on the parish council, a Senior terminal at Gdansk in Poland. He led a buyout of PD Ports G S Jackson (Grenville 81) Steward for the NGRC and still provides advice to local Ltd (the UK’s second largest port at Middlesborough) and In May 2005 Giles set up a horse crematorium in charities. floated the company the London Stock Exchange in Cirencester. The famous racehorse, Best Mate, was December 2004. James is also still running the old family cremated there. J A Sutton (Temple 57) firm John Sutcliffe & Son, now in its 143rd year of family In 1997, James retired from Westland Helicopters as an ownership, operating as a shipping agent and stevedore at I A Keith (Chandos 81) Engine Installation Design Engineer for the EM 101 Helicopter. Grimsby and Immingham docks. Ian sailed across the Atlantic on the tall ship ‘Tenacious’ as

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Stowe gathering in Germany Oliver Wall (Chandos 50) has offered to organise a part of a sabbatical away from General Practice. He still A T Mustard (Grafton 93) social gathering for Old Stoics and Stowe parents enjoys playing hockey, recently in the same team as James Alexander won the Animal Portraits section of the 2005 Larcombe. James Barratt (Temple 77) worked at the same Wildlife Photographer of the Year Competition, organised (current and former) living in Germany. practice but has now rejoined the RAMC. by the National History Museum and BBC Wildlife His suggested location is the Munich area, which Magazine, for his photograph of a snapper shoal in the Red he hopes will be convenient for most. Anyone H P Ogden (Walpole 81) Sea. His first book, ‘The Art of Diving’, was published in interested in taking part can contact Oliver on Harry crewed the first British boat in its class at the Laser March by Ultimate Sports Publications. World Masters sailing championships in Brazil, last [email protected] or +49 89 609 5593. October. J W A Jones (Grenville 94) Ashley has left the Royal Gurkha Rifles after 7 years R Vohora (Cobham 81) and now works for property company Jones Lang LaSalle in Ricky lives in Tanzania and is in the wheat London. Old Chandosians – London importing business. M T Newnham (Temple 95) C F Birtles (Temple 83) dinner for years 1980-1995 Matthew is working as a lawyer, specialising in Charles is an Associate Director at the Winchester office of employment law at Birketts solicitors in Norwich. A dinner is planned in London in the autumn this estate agents John D Wood. Jon Dakin (Grafton 83) also year for those in Chandos between 1980 and 1995, works there. Y A Ahmad (Grenville 97) the years during which John Dobinson was Yusuf’s biography of Sonia Gandhi, ‘Triumph of Will’, has A E C Briant (Bruce 84) Housemaster. The dinner will be attended by both been published in India by Tara Press. He is Chairman, Andrew is the Managing Director of Compass Underwriting, Department of Policy Planning and Coordination, of the John and Jill and it is hoped that every year of now entering its 11th year. He is also Secretary of the political party UPCC and contributes regularly to the media John’s housemastership will be fully represented. Lloyd’s of London Shotgun Club and was recently elected as Chairman of the Lloyd’s of London Rifle Club. Andrew won on political issues and current affairs. The venue and date have yet to be finalised, but expressions of interest are requested now please the National Rifle Association silver medal plus 3 bars in G A C Rolt (Lyttelton 97) the 2005 Imperial Meeting at Bisley. Andrew stood as a Georgie is currently specialising in musculo-skeletal to ensure that the right venue is chosen for the Conservative Councillor in the local London elections. physiotherapy at the Mayday Hospital in Croydon. In 2006 number expected. London has been chosen over J G da Silva (Stanhope 84) she competed in the London Marathon for the 3rd time! Stowe as it is more convenient for those coming from across the country. Jo spent 7 months last year as Senior Shelter Co-ordinator R M Brinks (Lyttelton 98) for UNHCR in Sri Lanka, where she assisted in responding Lindi is studying for a PhD in History of Art at the University To date support has been had from the following to the shelter needs of those displaced by the tsunami. Jo is of Goettingen, Germany. a structural engineer and her employer Arup, for whom she years: 1980, 1981, 1983, 1984, 1986, 1987, 1988, is an Associate Director, granted her leave of absence to K D R Byfield (Grafton 98) 1989 and 1990. It is hoped to find at least one take on the role. Kristjan’s property business continues to go from strength representative from each year to drum up support to strength. After branching into investments, his company from their peer group with the help of the Old C K Williamson (Chatham 84) has been involved with some exciting projects, including a Craig recently started a new property investment business Stoic Office. Those who just pre-dated John’s chain of hotels in Spain and 750 new flats in East London. in Australia, Blue Chip Financial Solutions. housemastership, but who would also like to attend (and I am aware of a few from 1979) are N J Hughes (Grafton 85) N M S Kirkwood (Bruce 98) also welcome to come along. Nick’s design group, Kugel, celebrated its 10th anniversary Nicholas has started a shoe design business and won the in November 2005. Emerging Talent Award at the 2005 Footwear News awards If you are interested in attending, please ensure in New York. Visit www.nicholaskirkwood.com for more that the OS Office has your latest contact details, G V Inglis-Jones (Walpole 85) information. Giles stood as the Conservative candidate for Ashfield in including an email address if at all possible, or the 2005 general election and was appointed Head of J A Townsend (Bruce 98) drop an email to me at [email protected]. Joe has been awarded a PhD in Chemistry by Human Resources for the Conservative Party in January this Richard Hopkinson-Woolley (Chandos 87) year. Cambridge University.

M Eyre (Chandos 86) C G G Howard (Grafton 99) Matthew is a Chartered Surveyor and Managing Director of Charlie has been commissioned in the Irish Guards. Geographical Reunions the family property business in Sheffield. S R Davis (Chandos 00) Thanks to all those who have expressed an R J Hopkinson-Woolley (Chandos 87) Stephen is the Sales Manager for a surf clothing company, interest in a reunion held in their region of the UK; Richard has been a partner in the leading real estate Finisterre, on the north coast of Cornwall. the OS Office will be in touch once all the practice at Berwin Leighton Paisner LLP in the city of responses have been collated. If anyone else is London since August 2003 and counts a number of Old A P B Gaston (Temple 00) Stoics amongst his clients. Alasdair graduated from the University of St Andrews with still considering the idea, please bear in mind that a Masters degree in History. He is currently based in New the OS Office is happy to provide contact details York, working for UBS Investment Bank. J S R Nicholl (Cobham 87) and to help organise such events. Bas is currently working in the USA as an assistant trainer (horse racing) for D. Wayne Lukas. J M Kayll (Walpole 00) James has been commissioned in the Light Dragoons. R M Page (Grafton 87) Matthew is an airline pilot working for British Airways. J W Mann (Temple 00) Wine-Tasting He is based at Heathrow and flies Boeing 777’s longhaul. Jack has been commissioned in the Blues and Royals (Royal Horse Guards and 1st Dragoons). The Old Stoic Society is planning to hold a L F S Chianese (Chandos 88) Wine-Tasting evening in London in November. Luciano is working in Rome as a freelance food and R Strecker (Walpole 00) We are considering using this evening as the arts translator. Roman completed the LLB at Bucerius Law School, Hamburg, Germany in October 2004. He is currently occasion on which the OS Society will choose L J Harris (Cobham 91) studying for his first state law exams. which wines will bear its own name and be Lee, a self-proclaimed guitar legend at Stowe and organiser used at future OS events. Everyone present will of many a rock concert at the Roxy, now manages The A E J Wilson (Chatham 01) have a vote, although the final arbiters will be: Blockheads (the late Ian Dury’s band). He also plays guitar Following a degree in Spanish at Bristol University, Alex is with them on occasion and has his own blues band – The now working as a Time Buyer for Mindshare International the Headmaster, Chris Atkinson (President of Luc Warm Band – which comprises members of The in London, a media company. the Society), and Geoff Higgins (Catering Blockheads and Alabama 3. You can catch up with him at Manager at Stowe). www.theblockheads.com. M T F Riley (Bruce 02) Malcolm is working with children for a Christian organisation. We would like as many Old Stoics and Stowe E C Hornby (Stanhope 91) parents to enjoy the evening as possible – Emma is a lecturer in the music department of Goldsmiths H M Schindhelm (Chatham 02) please indicate your interest by emailing College (University of London). Moritz was awarded a first class degree in finance and accounting from Exeter University last year and is now [email protected], by July 31st. W L C Morris (Walpole 91) studying for a Masters degree in finance at Goettingen Further information will be sent to all Will is a Project Manager for Cornish Homes in Truro. University, Germany. participants thereafter.

9 Old Stoics

Old Stoic Cricketers flourish with Northants and England U19 7s National Graeme White and Mark Nelson which Greame won the Denis (both Bruce 05) played for England Compton Award for the second in the ICC Under 19 World Cup in year running, an award given to Tournament Sri Lanka in February. The England the most promising young player team had an excellent run, at each of the first class counties. Stowe’s Senior Sevens reached the final 16 schools in this year’s National Tournament reaching the semi-finals, when This season Graeme has been they were beaten by India. Graeme promoted to the full Northants CCC at Rosslyn Park, with a very successful and White bowled very well throughout squad, where he joins Rob White enjoyable campaign capping off a very the competition: 10 wickets at an (Cobham 98) – no relation. demanding 7s season. The Senior team won average of 24 with 8 catches (the their group of 5 teams, beating Sevenoaks, Meanwhile Mark has been joined second highest economy score in Taunton, Royal Latin and Paignton. Having at the Academy by Stoic Ben the entire tournament). Mark been behind in two of these matches with Howgego (Grafton Upper 6th), so Nelson scored 245 runs in 8 under a minute to play, the Stoics Stowe’s influence at Northants CCC innings and took 8 wickets at an determination and character was tested to looks set to continue! average of 30, with 5 catches. the full, but their nerve held and speedster They were both part of the Rory Brabant managed to show the Northants County Cricket Club opposition a clean pair off heals to score Academy last season, during in the final seconds on both occasions.

Photos: Pete Norton Pete Photos: This meant we were to play the winners of the group next to us, St. Paul’s, London. James Jones in the Varsity Match Again Stowe were behind with a minute to James (Walpole 99) played number eight for Oxford in last year’s varsity rugby match against Cambridge, go and this time we did enough to draw at the first OS rugby blue for 40 years. Previously he was a member of London Irish and Henley Hawks and the end of regulation time. The rules he has also represented English Students. decreed that the team who scored next would win. This time it was the outstanding player of the season and top try scorer, George Coote (25 tries in 20 matches) who ran the length of the pitch to put Stowe through to the last 16 teams. This is a feat Stowe has now managed on four occasions in the last seven years – a very impressive record, with 130 of the best rugby teams in the country taking part. A match up against a fierce The Oratory side was our challenge. Unfortunately the ball just didn’t bounce for us and we lost narrowly. Marilyn Okoro in the Commonwealth Games In other tournaments the Stoics managed to beat the following teams – Bryanston, Marilyn (Lyttelton 02) won the in French and Politics at the Also at the Commonwealth Games Solihull, Loughborough (twice), 800m bronze medal for Great University of Bath. The photo shows was Mike Rossiter (Cobham 85), Berkhamstead, Pangbourne, Rugby. Britain at the World University Marilyn with her coach George who is the Chief Medical Officer for A great performance this season, in the 20 Games in August last year and went Harrison (centre) and Stowe’s Head England Hockey and was team matches we have scored 73 tries. on to represent England at the of Boys’ Sport, Alan Hughes (left). It doctor for both the men’s and Melbourne Commonwealth Games, was taken at the international women’s team in Melbourne. The where she reached the final, schools cross country race held at women won the bronze medal and Cricket – excellent finishing seventh. Marilyn is also in Stowe during the Easter holidays. the men came fourth. the final year of her degree course beginnings

Ben Howgego’s 1st XI has made an excellent The Stowe Horse-Racing Syndicate start to the season, winning five and drawing three of their first eight fixtures. It is apparent that a considerable Cobham 79) provides an If so, please email With Graeme White and Mark Nelson now on number of Old Stoics and Stowe intriguing illustration of what [email protected] as soon as the county staff at Northamptonshire, this parents have a very keen interest might be – a group of over 200 possible. No obligation of any was expected to be a season of rebuilding, in horse racing. For some, this is that gets together to enjoy a sort is imposed at this stage, but the squad has gelled quickly, and all the a professional one, and for others very convivial time. but with enough interest, this it is much more social. could very well be a ‘runner’. side have contributed to the success. The Would you be interested in highlight so far was the preliminary round of Over recent years, the idea of In expressing your own interest, joining? Some level of investment the National Twenty20 competition, in which setting up a racehorse-owning please also advise of others syndicate has been formed and (yet to be established) would that you think might follow Stowe beat Shiplake, Uppingham and begun to gather momentum. The certainly be involved, but the suit. Our target is to establish Rugby, to progress to the last sixteen of the syndicate of over 200 that owned social (and possibly even membership, and make some competition. Played at Stowe, this was a Motivator (the 2005 Derby financial!) returns could be initial progress by the end of superb day of cricket, with coloured winner, trained by Michael Bell, considerable. the year. clothing, loud music, white balls, and barbeque, with high tempo cricket.

10 School Sport ColumnTHE

Polo: National Schools Intermediate Championships

Stowe‘s B team played at the Championships held at Inglesham on a very cold Sunday in February. Representing us were Tom Bailey, Sebastian Bianchi and Dom Woods together with a few hardy supporters. Our first chukka was against Harrow’s A team. Their aggressive style, rapid attack and long shots ensured their 6-0 win over Stowe. Our second chukka saw us facing Wellington and in a better match, slightly slower in pace, Dom Woods charged around the field and led our attack. Good team work by Wellington finally outpaced Stowe and we lost 2-0, a more commendable score. Our honour had to be saved and in our third and final chukka we faced the Rugby Rhinos. This time we were the more confident, practised and aggressive team, with much close jostling between players. Tom Bailey scored a notable goal and we emerged the victors with a narrow but deserved win of 3-2. 2006 Lacrosse Season Stowe’s polo players had not played together as a team and the team talks Photo: Roy Ottaway Roy Photo: held in the relative warmth of the minibus clearly played their part in We have had the most successful the midfield. The key to victory though inspiring the team to eventual victory. Many thanks to our team and their lacrosse season ever. Our 1st team was Stowe’s outstanding defensive supporters and we anticipated greater success at the Senior School’s Polo remained undefeated in all full length play. In the afternoon the Junior team Competition the following week. matches. We won our first ever trophy defeated Malvern College by a score at the Abbotts Hill Tournament, became of 6-2. Defense was the catalyst for The Stowe A Polo team of Will Randall-Coath, Will Walmsley and Billy Regional Small Champions and were victory - Emma Duckett and Lilias Wigan Jackson-Stops rode out to compete in the Seniors Competition. We had been semi-final losers at the National led the show. In the attack Lilly Ziegler placed in the highly competitive Division One amongst more practised Schools Tournament. Pounds starred with 4 goals. teams. Our first chukka was against Wellington and our team took some time to warm up and get their eyes and sticks on the ball. Wellington, however, The junior girls’ lacrosse team took to On March 4/5 Stowe hosted for the were focused from the start and Stowe lost to the opposition by 2-1. the field for the first time, against first time the National Lacrosse Schools Uppingham. Lucy Beaty made history by Championship. In two days, Stowe With defeat ringing in our ears, Stowe took the field against Milton Abbey being the first junior girl to score a goal played 13 games, won 9, lost 3 and with more focus. All three Stoics played superbly and fiercely with two fine for Stowe, shortly followed by Lillie drew 1 with the eventual National goals from Billy-Jackson Stops and one from Will Randall Coath, a victory Ziegler Pounds. India Palmer and Champions, Downe House. We scored 3-1. We were now in the Final of Division One and playing for the Plate Natasha Trevor were instrumental in 35 goals and had 17 scored against us, against Radley. Stowe’s fight from the defense wing finishing as losing semi finalists by It was a needle match, a tense game of rivalry and pride. Stowe even had the position, but unfortunately 2 goals to 1. support of other schools and an excellent chukka ensued. It was 2-all just Uppingham’s experience was a little too All season our sights had been set on before the end and talk of penalties hovered in the air when a lucky goal strong for our juniors this time around. the Small Schools National crown. from Radley, soaring through the air in the last seconds of the match, meant With the enthusiasm for lacrosse on We were ready for the challenge and we lost 3-2. the increase, we fielded not only a demolished every team in our division Despite our lack of silverware but with the award of some rosettes in Division successful 2nd Team who won 4 of scoring 22 goals and conceding 2. One both Stowe’s teams are to be congratulated for their efforts in the their 6 games, but also a 6th Form Clarissa Knox guided Stowe into the Indoor Arena Competitions. With further practice and better teamwork we beginners Team. final. The game was dominated hope for a more successful season, next term, in the Outdoor Competitions. Outside Stowe, 7 girls were also statistically by Stowe in every aspect selected to represent Buckinghamshire except for converting shots into goals. County in the Midlands Regional County Stowe shot the ball 11 times and the Tournament. Clarissa Knox and Katie opposition once. Unfortunately for us, Kosciuczyk represented Bucks in the once was enough for them to score. 1st team. Buckinghamshire B was also At the end of the game the scoreboard stacked with Stowe players: Alice read 1-0 to Princess Helena College. Wiggett and Jo Lee in defence; Alex Having started our campaign back in Carter and Leo de Ferranti in midfield; September, what happened reached far Milly Beddall in attack; Mrs Duckett beyond expectations and moved into as Head Coach and Jo Lee as captain. the realms of sheer brilliance. Stowe Bucks combined very well as a team gained unprecedented recognition for and beat Oxford B’s by a margin of our character and style of play. We can 5 goals. now stand shoulder to shoulder with Arguably, Stowe’s toughest fixture any team in the nation. The legacy that of the year was when we took both has been left by the senior Stowe seniors and juniors to play Malvern lacrosse representatives has set a level Girls College, National Champions just of attainment that future female Stoic’s three years ago and undefeated so far will do well to aspire to. With the this season. The 1st team came away introduction of junior girls there will with a massive 13-3 victory. Eliza undoubtedly be exciting times ahead Winwood led the way in attack with for Stowe lacrosse. 5 goals while Clarissa Knox dominated

11 End Piece ColumnTHE

Feedback from A British Feature Film: Stowe House and Gardens Update: the First Issue A ‘Work’ and ‘Investment’ Springing into life

Many thanks to all of you who responded Opportunity at Stowe Since the completion of the glorious restoration of the central Pavilion, the South Front Portico and the with your comments on the first issue of In 1981 I had one of the happiest times of my life in a amazing Marble Saloon last July, thousands of The Column. The editorial team are delighted teaching period at Stowe. As a current proud parent people have visited and appreciated the work done that, overwhelmingly, readers were the same joy always returns whenever I visit. The and the beauty of the House. Stowe House favourably impressed. School Careers Office recently invited me to talk Preservation Trust is waiting to hear back from the In this issue we have attempted to address your about my experiences during my last 20 years as a Heritage Lottery Fund regarding the next phase of concerns with the font size and with the use of film maker. The fascination and interest of the Stoics restoration, focusing on the Library ceiling and roof, text against coloured backgrounds. The OS both enthused and astounded me. and is continuing to fundraise to match the grant news section has now been sorted by leaving My current feature film project, entitled ‘Seeds for awarded. The beautiful detailed plaster ceiling, year, rather than alphabetically. The new ‘non- Sid’, is a film about Sid, a battle of Britain pilot, now thought to date from 1797 when the room became a standard’ size divided opinion, but on balance a Christian lollipop man and his wonderful library, is in a fragile state and needs urgent (and with apologies to those Old Stoics who relationship with a little boy, Charlie, who inspires attention. Restoration will also help us to have collections of the old Stowe Bulletin in box his Headmaster to give Sid seeds to plant in an understand, archaeologically, the other uses of the files) we have decided to retain it. As many allotment. The boy becoming the young man at room before it became as we see it today. We are readers pointed out, it does help to give this Stowe, learns of Sid’s death. The fighter pilot is a also, rather excitingly, about to buy statuary and publication a distinctive style. man of truth, a brave visionary who led an unselfish restore the original Atheniennes to place in the life. This is a story about the importance of niches of the Marble Saloon, which will return the community, old fashioned moral values, historic room to its 18th century appearance. For opening respect and unconditional love. Events diary: times of the State Rooms to the public and the Funded at £2 million we hope to shoot, in part, at We provide a selection of dates of interest to members of the Stowe Interpretation Centre please check our website Community, who are welcome to attend these and other events held Stowe. The Producer, Pat Greenland, wants the www.shpt.org and click on Visitor Experience or at Stowe. Contacts for obtaining further information are given below. Stowe filming to incorporate professional work telephone 01280 818229. Pineapple Ball in the Stowe House state rooms. experience for Stoics in all departments, including 22 July 2006 See page 7 for further details camera, sound, costume, art department, editing Work in the National Trust Gardens continues and and production. visitors can this year see the magnificently restored 16 September 2006 Open Morning, Lower Sixth entry (for 2007 only) Art Malik from ‘True Lies’ is both actor and Executive Corinthian Arch and walk the newly restored Pebble 25th Anniversary Dinner at Stowe for Old Stoics Alcove path. Visitors can now also purchase peat 16 September 2006 Producer on the film. We would like Old Stoics who left in 1981 (particularly military backgrounds), parents and free plants seen in the garden and grown by the Reunion Day at Stowe for Old Stoics who left National Trust gardening team here. With the new 30 September 2006 Stoics to take part as extras and will also be filming before 1955 at the famous Brooklands Museum. All will receive self-guided Grecian Valley Walk and Stowe Story 7 October 2006 Open Morning, Lower School (13+ entry) professional credits and investors will receive trail there is something for all ages at Stowe this Associate Producer credits. Everyone involved will be spring and summer. For more information please 11 November 2006 Lower Sixth Examination Day for 2007 entry invited to a Premier screening. check the website www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ stowegardens or telephone 01280 822850. 50th Anniversary Lunch at Stowe for Old Stoics Old Stoics, parents and other members of the Stowe 4 December 2006 who left in 1956 community interested in investing or being involved

10th Anniversary Dinner in London for Old Stoics in the project are invited to email: [email protected] T0 Be Confirmed who left in 1996 for full details. Competition Winners My production team will inform investors of an T0 Be Confirmed Under 35’s London Party The editors of The Column were delighted exciting presentation in London, early to mid June to Contacts with the response to the first Stowe-doku outline the financial package and creative concept of School: Jane Collins 01280 818341 [email protected] puzzle and the caption competition. Old Stoics: John Bridgwood 01280 818252 [email protected] this film by Trinity Motion Pictures, a true British film Company making British films great again. For the Stowe-doku the five prize-winning entries, drawn on March 31st, were from: Let’s put Stowe on the world map and in the movies! The Roxburgh Society 1. Julian Hunt 2. Peter Williams Rod Woodruff, current parent. 3. Alexander Irwin 4. John Curwin The Society continues from strength to strength, 5. Charles Furness-Smith having almost doubled its membership since the Each wins a copy of ‘Fame by Chance’, inauguration of the Society in November 2004. Stowe-doku by Donough O’Brien (Chandos 57) – an A-Z Membership now stands at 54 and is exclusive of places (including Stowe) that became to those who have left a legacy to Stowe or intend 3 famous by a twist of fate. to do so. We have been urged by correspondents to 1 8 9 provide a sterner test, and thus the Stowe-doku The Society’s purpose is to foster a steady increase alongside falls firmly into the ‘Difficult’ in legacies over the years ahead and to provide an 4 7 8 category. The five first entries drawn on opportunity for the School to recognise the 31st August will win a prize. Please send your generosity of the members and thank them for 9 5 7 completed grids to: Gina Swift, Stowe School, their contribution. Stowe, Buckingham, MK18 5EH. The second Roxburgh Society Annual Lunch will 6 3 8 The usual rules apply: each 3x3 box, each row take place at Stowe immediately after the end of 5 6 3 and each column must contain all the numbers term in July and members will be entertained by a from 1 to 9. guest speaker and wonderful recitals by some of 8 4 3 2 For the caption competition, the winning entry our music scholars. was “Sold to the lucky lady, one ex-Madame Tussaud’s reproduction public school For further details or to join please contact 5 2 6 7 Headmaster!”, submitted by Jess Norman who Cherry Baker, Roxburgh Society Manager, wins tickets to the Pineapple Ball on 22nd July. telephone 01280 818326. 7 2 5