APRIL 2015

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LEE GLASER: REV’D MATTHEW DIETZ: THE NEW HEADMASTER THE NEW CHAPLAIN aunton School started 2015 with a new Headmaster, en years after leaving the Regular Army, the Rev’d Matthew Mr Lee Glaser, who took charge on January 1st, Dietz is back in uniform as the new Chaplain of Taunton School. T replacing Dr John Newton who moved ‘down under’ to T His Army career – as a Royal Logistic Corps Officer including a become Principal of Scotch College in Adelaide, Australia. spell in the infantry as a Royal Green Jackets Captain and Platoon Commander – included service in Mr Glaser, Dr Newton’s Deputy Head for the past five years, Northern Ireland, Bosnia and Iraq. said: “I am delighted and honoured to be leading Taunton School. It is a wonderful place with huge significance in my life. He left in 2001 to develop In a time of educational change, my colleagues and I are proud a career in the City in to inspire and challenge young people to achieve great things, London. In 2003, helping them to maximise their academic achievements and however, the Gulf War personal potential. I am proud to work with gifted teachers, led to his Army recall passionate about their subject, who inspire and challenge under compulsory our pupils and young adults.” mobilisation. It was while in Iraq that he had Mrs Jane Barrie, Chair of Governors, describes Mr Glaser as “a conversation with God “a senior leader of outstanding ability and judgment.” under a eucalyptus tree in Basra”, leading to She added: “I am looking forward two years of theological to Mr Glaser leading our training at Oxford distinguished School University, followed by with a clear strategy and ordination as a Church progressing our vision. He will of England priest. confidently ensure the highest standards of education and Matthew is now one of a opportunities for all our pupils. handful of clergy from He will support our young the Bath & Wells adults, enabling them to Diocese who perform progress in higher education, specialist duties employment and indeed outside the parish throughout life.” G context. Prior to the move to Taunton, he held a similar position at Monkton Combe School, Bath.

Matthew assists with school sport and Duke of Edinburgh award activities as well as teaching PSHE (Personal, Social and Health Education).

He views the Chaplain role as “an opportunity to give back some of the very positive experiences I gained in my Army career and to reach out to the young people on their terms”. He and wife Marion have four children – Chloe (14), Greg (13), Barney (11) and Timmy (5). G

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Major General Alastair Tulloch Jonathan Hall CB OBE DL (Fairwater 1978) (Wills West 1963) [email protected] Alastair has been designing and building gardens for over thirty years. He is based in Emsworth, Hampshire and does work in the South Hampshire/West Sussex area. His experience ranges from town and city gardens to larger rural projects and NHS hospitals. Alastair said: “I work with gardens of any size including balcony and roof gardens. I can also offer a discount to OTs.” G Rachael Parvin née Covey (Weirfield 1986) [email protected] Paul Mitchard QC Rachael has recently taken up the helm at Hestercombe Centre for (Marshall 1970) Young Musicians, near Taunton, alongside her teaching of saxophone [email protected] and clarinet at several schools in Taunton and Wellington. Paul Mitchard joined the The Centre, a division of the Guildhall School, is a thriving music school Chinese with young musicians (aged 5-18) joining musical ensembles, University of performance workshops and classes on Saturdays during term-time. Hong Kong Rachael started teaching woodwinds at Hestercombe CYM when it as Director launched in March 2014, but her new role as Head of Centre means that Jonathan was a professional soldier of Career she is now based at Hestercombe Gardens where she has organised for for thirty-five years, reaching the Planning and young musicians to collaborate with the latest contemporary art rank of Major-General. His last Professionalism after exhibition at the Hestercombe Gallery. Having been a keen musician at serving appointment was General more than 35 years in private Weirfield School, thanks to Miss Valerie Hill, Rachael said: “I am Officer Commanding the Army in practice. A graduate of Oxford delighted to be working with such an exciting team of tutors and students at Scotland and Governor of University, he was admitted as a Hestercombe CYM, which is a really marvellous resource for children in this Edinburgh Castle. He saw service solicitor in London in 1977, in Hong area.” Rachael lives in Taunton with husband Dave Parvin who is currently Head of ICT at Taunton School. in many parts of the world Kong in 1984 and the British Virgin G including Germany, Cyprus, Islands in 2006, The Lawyer www.hestercombe.com/cym Canada, Libya, Singapore and (December 2010) describing him as Northern Ireland. He commanded “one of the world’s leading litigators ”. his regiment, the Royal Scots Paul was appointed as Queen’s Susan Porter-Thomas Colin Morris Dragoon Guards and the 12th Counsel in 2008 and was one of the (Besley 1991) (Wills East 1985) Armoured Brigade. He is a first solicitors to be granted higher [email protected] Colin joined High Speed 2 Ltd graduate of the Army Staff rights of audience in Hong Kong. Susan runs (HS2) in January 2015 as College (1977), the Higher He has held a Visiting Professorship the highly- Programme Delivery Command and Staff Course (1988) at the China University of Political acclaimed SPT Strategy Director. and the Royal College of Defence Science and Law. G Photography Studies (1991). From 1999 until based in the A spokesman August 2014 he was a member West of for HS2 of Her Majesty’s Body Guard London. commented: of the Honourable Corps of Specialising in “Colin joins us at Gentlemen at Arms. He was fine art family an important time promoted to Standard Bearer in portraiture including pregnancies, for HS2, as we August 2012. new-born and children’s photo- continue the shoots, she has been running her progress from On leaving the Army in 1997, business now for 10 years. Susan development he was selected for the post of said: “I am willing to offer OTs a 50% to delivery. Lieutenant Governor (CEO discount on the session fee for a He will be equivalent), Accounting Officer photography shoot.” instrumental in and ex-officio Commissioner of [email protected] not only in the Royal Hospital, Chelsea, www.sptphotography.com G ensuring that we build HS2 on a post he held until 2005. time and on budget but in Clive Roberts Philip Greenwood realising the benefits in the UK’s He was appointed Officer of (Somerset 1964) (Foxcombe 1978) economy. His recent Middle East the Order of the British Empire [email protected] [email protected] experience, where transportation and (OBE) in 1987, an Officer Dr Clive Roberts received a The Last Train infrastructure is being heavily invested of the Order of St John (OStJ) 40 years long service medal to Glasgow is in, will also be particularly relevant to (Scottish Priory) in 1997, on 12th December from the set in a world helping ensure we deliver the wider a Companion of the Bath (CB) in Chancellor of Bristol in which benefits of the HS2 Programme". 1998 and Deputy Lieutenant of University. The University the bubble Dorset in 2010. In April 2014 Court was told that he arrived economics of Colin said: “I'm excited to be he was appointed a Knight in Bristol in 1974 as a clinical the western joining HS2 team at such a Commander of the Order of research associate and became world suffers the ultimate credit critical point. The opportunity to be Francis (KCFO). He is a fellow a teacher of medical students crunch, coupled with the demise of part of such a strategically of the Chartered Management as a consultant physician and readily available energy as the oil important Programme as HS2 Institute and Honorary senior lecturer in clinical becomes unavailable through war. is for me, especially as a Fellow Associate member of the British pharmacology. He was Clinical As the lights go off James Last finds of the Institute of Mechanical Veterinary Association. Dean of the medical school himself trapped in Scotland the Engineers, professionally for nine years and was well night before his wedding in gratifying. As part of HS2 I will He is also a Governor of Taunton remembered by those who are Cornwall. The book follows his have the opportunity to help School as well as a Governor of now local consultants and journey south on foot as the develop future programme leaders, Blind Veterans UK (St Dunstan’s), GPs. Latterly he has taken on a country adapts to life in a post engineers and technical expertise a Freeman of the City of London role teaching medicine and industrial world. Available from thus ensuring that we remain and a Liveryman of the Worshipful surgery to dental students. G www.amazon.co.uk/dp/ a leading centre of excellence Company of Farriers. G B00Q1G3UBS G for rail and transportation.” G

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Stephen Gullick Michael Bailey Ollie Williams (Foxcombe 1967) (Fairwater 1995) (Evans 2002) Having sat at both Bradford and [email protected] [email protected] St Albans Crown Courts as a Since September Ollie left his sports reporting Circuit Judge, 2014, Michael role at the BBC after the His Honour has been the Commonwealth Games and Judge Gullick first in-house moved to Yellowknife, in Canada’s is concluding translator Northwest Territories, to be with his Judicial at the his wife, Jenn, who has been Career by Austrian working there for almost two sitting for six Financial years. He is currently running the weeks at Market Authority newsroom of CJCD Moose FM, the Central (Finanzmarktaufsicht) in the only commercial radio Criminal Court Vienna, having spent 11 years station for about 500 miles in (The Old Joseph Marsh with an NPO housed in the any direction. Bailey) prior to retiring on 31st (Goodland 2009) Oesterreichische Nationalbank March. He left school in 1967 and Keith Ingram (OeNB). It was here he organised Ollie said: and graduated in law from (Wills East 1959) banking conferences throughout “Moving from Birmingham University in 1970. Joseph recently competed for Europe, from Iceland through to the BBC's Called to the Bar at Grays Inn, the University of Birmingham at Cyprus, working as a newsroom of he then became a barrister based in the Masters National Swimming freelance translator. thousands to Leeds, dealing mainly with Championships where he met CJCD's criminal cases. In 1998 as Circuit fellow OT Keith Ingram. At 74, Michael said: “My new position newsroom of Judge in West Yorkshire and a Keith was also competing, for combines facets of my two previous two has been Bradford Resident Judge in 2001, the Birmingham Masters team. roles – the Finanzmarktaufsicht is an interesting he dealt with many cases arising Austria's financial supervisory change – and, from the riots later that year. Keith said: “My individual swims authority (our equivalent of happily, an He was appointed Honorary were all good and three of them the PRA and FCA) and works closely enjoyable one Recorder of Bradford by the were the best I have done for years. with the OeNB as part of the new so far. Local Authority. In 2009, having I finished 2nd in the breaststroke Single Supervisory Mechanism (SSM) Top stories include bear attacks, finished his 8-year term of office, events, losing to an ex-GB which went live in the Euro area in the diamond mining industry, he returned to Hertfordshire International almost 5 years 2014. Austria's largest banks are now aurora viewing and planes crash- (where he was born and grew up) younger, but it was good to note supervised through the ECB in landing on frozen lakes. Rarely a and began working at St Albans that his winning times were slower Frankfurt, reporting through the FMA dull moment! Any OTs adventurous Crown Court. G than mine at the same age and I with the consequence of an increased enough to make it to Yellowknife ran him pretty close on the 50.” amount of communication in English. are more than welcome to stop in. Lizzie Penny Failing banks with cross-border Pop your head in the door at (Jenkin 2000) Joseph managed to secure 9 activities, particularly ones with Moose FM on 49th Street. Lizzie runs Futureproof, medals, including 4 Silvers in exposures to the unstable geopolitical Everything here from snowmobiling, a marketing agency whose relay races with fellow situation in Ukraine and sanctions dog sledding and ice fishing to the clients include University swimmers and a against Russia, are keeping me on northern lights and herds of Hovis, Gold in the 50m Butterfly. my toes!” G wild buffalo.” G Belvedere vodka and Joseph said: “It was great to meet the England a fellow OT who is still competing football team. at his age; we have a very similar She co- background. Keith and I contacted founded the each other about 18 months ago, company five thanks to David Bridges (OT years ago with Matt Campbell, Secretary), but this is the first time investing £10,000 of their savings that we have managed to meet and early on. Futureproof’s revenue chat. It is amazing seeing the older now exceeds £1m. men and women competing in events that I find difficult even at As high-profile clients started to my age, 50 years younger!” G roll in, Lizzie decided it was time Abi Cargen (Weirfield 2010) [email protected] to pay out for the best staff. When Abi left Taunton School she knew she didn’t want to go to But she wasn’t after established Rob Barclay University. She felt that she would accrue of lot of debt, and wouldn’t big hitters; Penny wanted fresh, (Wills West 2000) be guaranteed a job at the end. It works for some people, but it was young talent. The solution, she [email protected] not for her. thought, was to take on an Rob is running the apprentice. “They’re enthusiastic, 2015 London She decided to go into the outdoor industry and has loved every keen to learn and dynamic,” Marathon, minute of it! She works with 9-18 year olds, as well as adults, on team- said Penny. this year building days. being the Abi said: “Part of my job is to teach outside the classroom, and it’s not just the Through Arch, an apprentice anniversary new skills in an adventurous activity but social skills, learning to listen, provider, Penny took on three of 10 years in learning to lead, giving the chance to people who may not usually get it in apprentices and is looking for a remission of school. Achieving many new qualifications (from kayaking/canoe coach, archery, fourth. “They have a really his cancer. fencing, rifles, climbing, mountain boarding / biking to being a fire marshal, a unconstrained way of thinking Rob managed to raise over £6000 lifeguard and many different first aid skills) has developed me as an Instructor. compared with those of us who have when he ran the 2006 Marathon. I’ve also stayed in education by completing NVQs and BTEC modules. been in the workforce longer,” Rob said: “We are all running for the I’ve been promoted to Senior Instructor which gives me an opportunity not only she said. Futureproof’s apprentices British Red Cross as a team and have a to teach the groups but also manage a team of instructors and lead the schools are taken on for a year. Five weeks fundraising target to reach, so any help and their visit.” are spent away from its head office would be very much appreciated.” in Wood Lane, west London. In addition his wife Carrie, brother Abi is embarking on a new adventure in Kent, working to help children “It’s about bringing fresh, young Andrew (Wills West 2003) and Best disengaged from society who need a helping hand getting back on track, talent into small businesses. Man Rob Speakman (Marshall visiting schools and offering help to give everyone the opportunities Smaller companies often need to 2000) will also be running. they deserve for a good and successful adult life. Abi said: “I can’t wait to do something different to make https://www.justgiving.com/ make a difference.” G their mark.” G RBarclay2015 G

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Dominic Chapman Sarah Norman (née Helliar) (Fairwater 1991) (Bevan 1993) [email protected] [email protected] Dominic recently opened his own After following restaurant The Beehive at White a path in THE HEAD Waltham in Berkshire. Agriculture, firstly Dominic gained qualifying HAS HIS SAY experience as as a Farm chef de partie Secretary s the days grow that little bit at Heston and then longer and the crocuses bloom, Blumenthal’s 3 studying A it has been interesting to Star Michelin The Agriculture at Seale Hayne in reflect on my first half of Fat Duck from 2000- Devon, Sarah’s career took a very term as Headmaster. 02, followed by a stint at the different direction. Her love of food Some aspects have been fashionable Kensington Place in and cooking seemed to take priority particularly enjoyable, London. He then relocated to less and after attending The Grange including having an formal settings when he was invited Cookery School she became a by Blumenthal to be Head Chef at freelance cook, catering for shoot overview of the whole The Hind’s Head in Bray. lunches and private holidays. school and the sense of a Sarah said: “I married Chris in 2004 new challenge. There are In 2007, Dominic became Head Chef and moved to Herefordshire where we other aspects that I need to improve – such as getting out of the at The Royal Oak , earning Michael farm 700 dairy cows and the oldest office more. I am in the privileged position of being able to Parkinson’s pub restaurant a Hereford herd in the world. We have shape my own senior team, finding a replacement for the Michelin star, three AA rosettes and three children: Freddie (9), Hugh (7) Deputy Headmaster, my previous position, and for the Director a 6/10 rating in the Good Food Guide and Alice (5). I’m still in touch with of Studies as Neil Mason steps down at the end of this year. during a seven-year spell. His many OTs via OT Facebook!” G It will be really exciting shaping the team and I have high menus usually feature more comfort hopes for further successes of the school. food than might be found on many Lexi Harvey Michelin-starred menus – like slow- (Weirfield 2014) It was great to see so many OTs at the recent President’s Dinner cooked pork and smoked fish – [email protected] at the Palace of Westminster. It was a wonderful evening though he raises these traditional Lexi recently spent three months and both Liz and I felt honoured to be there amongst so many foods to rarefied heights. He helping people in Africa. achieves this through a fierce She applied OTs, parents and friends of our community. Jeremy Browne attention to detail and scrupulously through the is a good friend of Taunton School and I am sure will selected ingredients. Government- continue as such when he steps down from his seat at the funded next election. According to the late Michael International Winner, Chapman’s food “ is what Citizen Service As ever, the School is busy and our students continue to make cooking should be: superb ingredients, (ICS) scheme us proud. As I write, the boys’ first team hockey is in the last 16 simple, done with stratospheric skill”. for 18-25 year of the National Cup and the U14 girls are County champions. Matthew Norman concluded his olds, working Three students in the Upper review of one of Chapman’s with a York-based development toothsome desserts by complaining charity on a project in Burkina Faso. Sixth have received offers from that “any further description would What we must Cambridge University and our risk violating the borderline between Lexi said: “I wanted to work on a students won seven trophies food criticism and pornography”. real development project that would never lose sight in the Taunton Music Festival.

Dominic made his debut on BBC’s make a genuine difference to the “ It’s all go, but that is how we Great British Menu 2014 , competing lives of some of the world’s most of is ensuring like it. against Josh Eggleton and Emily marginalised people.” Watkins in the South West heats. “ Most of our students are turning Lexi has always had an interest in we are doing the their thoughts towards external On Monday 20th October 2014, empowering and giving a voice to The Times kicked off with others, having served as the right thing for exams, which get under way in The Best 25 Country Pubs in their Member of Youth Parliament for May. The exam period now Daily Food List with The Beehive Taunton and West Somerset in the our students... stretches over approximately six ranking as 11th Best Country Pub. past. She will be returning weeks and students in Years 11, Dominic’s menu was praised for its to the UK to study philosophy 12 and 13 will all be affected. mix of British classics with French at University in September. It inevitably raises the question of why we are educating our and Italian influenced dishes. https://www.justgiving.com/ G G children in such a way that between the ages of 15 and 18 their www.thebeehivewhitewaltham.com Alexandra-Harvey lives are significantly affected by exams and preparing for them. This will soon change as A level and GCSE reforms take Sarah Poole (Gloucester 2001) place, but these will take place over a number of years causing, [email protected] no doubt, significant confusion. What we must never lose sight Acting Deputy Regional News of is ensuring we are doing the right thing for our students, Editor at Global North West , but I do fear that Educational Administrators have taken their Sarah recently had the opportunity eyes off this ball. However, we at Taunton School will do what to interview the Prime Minister we have always done, and that is to provide our students and David Cameron while he was in the region to celebrate the success parents with the best possible guidance and opportunities. of the New Enterprise Allowance. I am extremely fortunate to work with passionate and Sarah also spoke to him about a number of regional issues. Recently, she talented colleagues with a focus on high standards to help also covered the Labour Party Conference in Manchester, conducting with this. over 50 filmed interviews with MPs for Global’s brand websites. Sarah said: “To sit down and have a one-to-one with the Prime Minister has to I have thoroughly enjoyed my first half of term; meeting so be one of my career highlights. It was interesting to hear his view on issues that many OTs has been a definite highlight. Liz and I are very directly affect people in the North West. We spoke about a range of subjects from much looking forward to enjoying a strong relationship with HS2 to if he sends his own tweets. He doesn’t. However, he assured me he knew the OTA in the coming years. G his hashtags from his hash browns!” G

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THE BATTLE OF GALLIPOLI CENTENARY WWI COMMEMORATIVE CONCERT ormer Taunton School Bursar, Col David Lowe OBE recently here is no doubt I was expecting a sombre atmosphere in chapel visited the battlefields of the Gallipoli Campaign with a small for the World War One Commemorative Concert. However, the F party from his old regiment. The Centenary of the start of the Ttone was wonderfully bright. The great range of music, along Gallipoli Campaign is 25 April 2015. Also on David’s trip were families of with the biographical and contextual information given about the members of the old Irish Regiments which were involved in the Campaign. pieces, their composers and their relevance to World War One, encouraged a much more reflective and sanguine response from David said: “I am not an expert, but one of our party has written several books the audience. It was less a time for sadness and more a time for about the disastrous events of the Campaign and if any OT has a relative who understanding; understanding more about the war, and particularly was killed at Gallipoli I would be happy to try tell them a little bit about the the part music played within it. circumstances. Dates, Regiments and Ranks would help me point them in the right direction.” David may be contacted on [email protected] The audience were thrust straight into the throes of patriotism when the Wind Band opened with a Fillimore Artillery March , and from there, the audience was taken on a truly original war journey, D-DAY WAR DIARIES B ritish Landings glimpsing not only times of despair, but also of hope and beauty. The range of music was wonderful, from Holst, to Powell’s popular Pack up your troubles to a wonderful arrangement of Keep the Home 6th British Airborne – Sword Beach Fires Burning , to Fantasia on Christmas Carols . The latter – the finale – ccountant James Robertshaw left the audience feeling festive and merry; what a wonderfully (Goodland 1973 ) is a member of professional looking and sounding Chamber Choir we have. A the Royal British Legion and is All choirs sang beautifully though, and the exceptionally high very interested in Military History. standard of Taunton School’s singers is something we He visited the Normandy Beaches in should all be very proud of. March 2014, for the 70th Anniversary of the Landings, and was very moved Instrumentalists too, created wonderful sounds and by what he saw. He was unable to find again performed professionally and with great musicality much decent material on what actually and commitment. An undoubted personal highlight was the happened during the Landings and Orchestra’s performance of Williams’ War Horse ; it was really quite decided to write a book about each Beach, donating profits to breathtaking. Mighty, and perfectly timed crashes from the Royal British Legion and other military charities. percussionists provided high drama and emotion, while the flute provided wonderfully beautiful interjections of playfulness and The first two books on the British 6th Airborne Division and Sword Beach spirit; the whole orchestra supported expertly throughout. are full of maps, current photographs, and show in detail all the units that Rebecca Miller G went in, the casualties and the actions fought. The German defences are illustrated, as are the preparation of the allies to combat these defences. The books have been written so that if you visit Normandy, and get off the ferry at Ouistreham, you can use them as good reference documents. The next two books will be on Juno and Gold Beaches.

Each book costs £6.95 (or £11.50 for 2) , which includes postage and packaging. Each sale gives £1.00 to the Royal British Legion and Help for Heroes. Send a cheque payable to James Robertshaw to: 1 Kingswalk Cottages, High Street, Witney, OX28 6ES [email protected] www.lulu.com G VISIT TO YPRES or many years now, the School has organised an annual trip for Year 9 pupils to the battlefields of the Great F War and, as a member of staff, I have been privileged to accompany the group in the past.

In October last year, I had the great honour to join the School party for part of their trip as they paid their respects at such places as Sanctuary Wood, Tyne Cot and the Menin Gate. There, members of the School laid a wreath as thousands of people, young and old, attended the daily ceremony of the Last Post – a most moving occasion.

The following day, we all gathered in St George’s Memorial Church where, a few years ago, a plaque was installed in honour of the Old Tauntonians who lost their lives during the First World War. The School Archivist, John Brown, has researched diligently over the past year or so and the number from the School who died is considered to be 168. Helped by John Brown’s records, I was privileged to be able to talk to the pupils in that lovely church before laying a wreath on behalf of the OTA at the commemorative plaque. It was, for me, both humbling and yet very meaningful because the sacrifices of so many so long ago must surely never be forgotten. Hugh Todd – OT President G

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OLD TAUNTONIAN SPORTS CLUB Back:: Chriis Bevan, n, Hugh Kelllly,, Chriis Greenwood, Jack Coop , oper,, George Cook,, Seb Horller,, TOUR REPORT 2014 Chriis Dave venport,, Andrew Ford,, Ed Cllark he tour probably commenced in the 1950s, when the Sports Club owned a ground in Greenford and ran cricket, hockey and cricket T sides in London. Although the ground was sold and there is currently no OT sport in London, the ‘tour’ continues, although it is now just cricket. Some of the fixtures have remained the same for the last forty years, such as the games against Sidmouth and Harborne. This year, the OTs played against the School in June and then played a further five games in July and August. OTs v. Bristol Bedouins – 14th July 2014 OTs v Timberscomb The Bedouins are a team organised by Roy Jones, a member of e Frontt:: Allex Wattson,, To Tom Osmond,, Wiilllliiam Sttaniilland staff at Bristol Grammar School. It is not strictly an Old Bristolian side, but is predominantly made up from former pupils and staff. Higginson. The team was able to press on to a score of The match was played at Curry Rivel. The OTs 200 out of 44 overs, with some late order hitting from won the toss and elected to bat. Hugh Kelly and Andrew Ford. David Higginson provided the backbone to the OT innings, scoring 38 and 73 respectively. There was The Bedouins made a steady reply, but were pegged also a useful contribution from Nick Neubert, who back by regular wickets, with Ed Clark taking 3 for 15 made a breezy 24. When Simon Hogg came on to and Nick Crossing 2 for 15. There was some middle bowl for the Bedouins in the middle of the innings, order resistance from M. Tavare (the nephew of the great he was treated with great respect by Kelly and man) who scored 28, but in the end they were bowled out for 186 to give us victory by 14 runs. OTs v Sidmouth – 15th July 2014 athcoat OTs v Tiverton He This was a serious game; the OTs had taken the precaution of strengthening their side by bringing in John Rogers (a professional from Taunton Deane who had represented Western Australia) as well as Chris Davenport The Liion Inn, Tiimberscombe (“Davvo”) from Taunton CC. Sidmouth, meanwhile, fielded three South Africans who were playing professionals for Paignton and Budleigh Salterton (L. Pietersen, Meeka and Gavin). d, Pete Tilley, Seb Horley, Manley, Will Osmond, Matt Reed, P Back (l-r): Simon Ma ginson, Their wicket keeper rew Ford, Hugh Kelly, David Higgi Front (l-r): John Rogers, Andrew was Renee who ver Chris Davenport, Fenton Glover represented Holland (some time ago) and they also had some Clockwise from front: Devon fringe players. William Staniland, Alex Watson, Chris Davenport, Will Osmond, Hugh Kelly won the toss OTs v Timberscombe Chris Greenwood, Tom Osmond and elected to bat on a good “The Offisde Trap” – and George Cook wicket. Rogers and Davvo Alex Watson, Andrew Ford, opened against some very hostile Chris Davenport, Hugh Kelly bowling from Pietersen and Meeka. and Jack Cooper Davvo was dismissed cheaply and Rogers was joined by Jack Cooper. Those two batted beautifully with Cooper scoring 76 and Rogers 103 before holing out to long on. There were no significant contributions from the lower order although Ford did manage two sixes in his 12. The final score was 233 off 39.3 overs.

At tea, the Sidmouth players were of the view that 250 was par for the wicket and we waited to see how they performed. Early on in their innings, Zac Bess, who had scored 150 against us last year, hooked Fenton to Nick Neubert who caught him at long leg. Pietersen made 46 before being bowled by Seb Horler and Gavin 25 before being caught by Joel Thomas off the bowling of Jack Cooper. In the end, Sidmouth could only manage 168 off their 40 overs, although Renee did make 29 not out batting at number 11. 6 https: // taunton.web-intouch.com Old Tauntonian Review

OTs v. Tiverton Heathcoat – 16th July 2014 OTs v. Sou’westers – 1st August 2014 This was a new fixture played at the splendid Heathcoat Cricket On a rather overcast day with rain in the air, the OTs decamped to Club on the Knighshayes estate at Tiverton. Bishops Hull CC as no pitch was available at the School. This was a good opportunity for Jack Cooper to return to his spiritual roots, This match was reduced to 35 overs per side so that the ground could having played as a junior for Bishops Hull and, most notably, be available for an evening fixture. Heathcoat won the toss and having played there during Hugh Kelly’s 10th birthday party. decided to bat. They had a strong side and scored 260 off their allotted overs with their captain A. Bucknell scoring 61 and The match was played on the all-weather surface which tended to A. Charles a quick-fire 77. Again we were facing a South African favour the batsmen. The Sou’westers batted first, but good bowling professional in the guise of Qaasim Adams who scored 30 before from Alex Watson (2-8) kept them to 210 for 7 off 49 overs. In reply, retiring. Seb Horley took 2 wickets for 27 and Higginson 2 for 30. Simon Manley, although now sylphlike, was run out for 44. A good partnership followed between Cooper (55) and Neubert (66) before The OTs had a tremendous start with D. Higginson and Alex Watson with a splendid 68 took us past their score with Chris Davenport putting on 100 for the first wicket. Higginson was 4 wickets down. G out for 51, but Davenport was joined by Simon Manley who scored 56. Davvo batted well for a century and, when on 106 with the score AVERAGES: BATTING at 200 for 2, decided to retire. With Rogers still to come we thought Inns. NO Runs HS Av. we were well set, but when he was caught at deep midwicket we David Higginson 20124 73 62 were left needing 12 to win off the last over. Pete Tilley lifted a six John Rogers 20116 103 58 over the pavilion but with 4 runs needed for victory off the last ball Jack Cooper 30162 76 54 he could only manage a single. Simon Manley 20100 56 50 Chris Davenport 40159 106 39.75 Nick Neubert 3090 66 30 OTs v. Timberscombe – 18th July 2014 Hugh Kelly 3087 41 29 This 20/20 match was arranged so that the OTs could enjoy the AVERAGES: BOWLING beautiful ground at Timberscombe in the lee of the Quantocks and Overs Mdns Runs Wkts Av. the hospitality of the Lion Inn. The match was rather one sided as Ed Clark 17 1 41 4 10.5 Timberscombe had been struggling for players and the Old Simon Horler 17.5 0 116 6 19.33 Tauntonians were strengthened by some players from Taunton CC. Andrew Ford 19 1 122 6 20.33 Chris Davenport 9162 3 20.66 Kelly won the toss and elected to bat. Although our openers fell Fenton Glover 15 0 66 3 22 cheaply, Kelly made 41, Cooper 31 and Davenport 42. The highlight Hugh Kelly 10 0 61 2 30.5 was the innings from Ed Clark who made 52 which was the first time he had scored 50 and took our total to 175. Timberscombe were never PLAYERS really in the hunt and many of our team were given the opportunity Hugh Kelly, Chris Davenport, Nick Neubert, David Higginson, Fenton Glover, to bowl. The best figures were from Ford who took 3 for 17; Ed Clark, Nick Crossing, Will Osmond, Simon Horley, Andrew Ford, G. Clark, John Rogers, Jack Cooper, Joel Thomas, Matt Reed, Simon Manley, Pete Tilley, Timberscombe’s final score was 132. Chris Greenwood, William Staniland, George Cook, Alex Watson, Jeff Dakin, and Chris Bevan We then retired to the Lion Inn for a most enjoyable couple of pints.

adult and national teams. Both teams had the opportunity “Nearly all gone....” to play on the only grass pitch in Qatar, at their national SHWARMA PARTY Nick Crossing and Charlie Gliddon 17,000 all-seater stadium, against their national 16 and 18 Anthony Forester-Bennett (Goodland 1978) age group teams. They were guests at the Emirates Palace recently hosted a Shwarma Party for the field, where the square is located in the grounds. They also Taunton School Cricket Tour at his home in challenged the Zayed Academy teams, on the ground Dubai. He writes: “It was a superb evening, where two days later the Pakistan and New Zealand and everybody had at least one Shwarma, a Middle teams would play an amazing game of one-day cricket. Eastern-style chicken wrap. With other local food on offer, I hope the boys gained some idea The U16 team had the opportunity to play a Test Match while about the cuisine out here – or at least will the U18s took on a touring team from India in Sharjah, in front know what to avoid if they ever find of a very impressive mosque. They also played at the ‘home themselves in an Arab restaurant again!” of UAE cricket’, the ICC Academy centre.

Two other Dubai OTs were in attendance: The boys were able to experience the culture and learn Adrian Dando (School House 1982 ) and Back (ll-r): Henry Gater (Captaiin), more about the countries and their beliefs through a range of Jon Skittrall (Evans 1992) who had Anthony Forrester-Bennett, Jon Skiitrrallll, different trips, including to the Grand Mosque which is the Dave Jessop (Master ii/c Criicket) travelled up from Muscat. third largest in the world. G

“I believe the boys got a good impression of the fun and strength of the OT network, and an early understanding that friendships made at Taunton School are going to last long after they move on.”

Twenty-four students, aged 15-18, took part in 12 matches – including day-night games – across Doha, Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah, pitting themselves against academy,

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A MUSICAL TOUR OF BHUTAN Paul Cowlan (Wills East 1968) [email protected] daily work in the fields. Drawing on Jigme’s compositions and wide knowledge of Bhutanese traditional music, plus my hen I brought my first guitar into the dormitory of Loveday repertoire of folk, blues and original material, we developed a lively, House, on June 7th 1963, I little suspected where that eclectic programme, combining vocals, dramnyan, flutes, W instrument, and Bert Weedon’s Play in a Day instruction book, guitar and harmonicas in both familiar and unfamiliar cross-overs. would lead! Today, after thirty-nine years as a travelling singer- songwriter I can look back on numerous fascinating tours and unusual The underlying concept was the idea of two wandering musicians, venues, but the Bhutanese trip of September 2014 stands out as a one Bhutanese, the other English, turning up at relatively short notice unique and hugely rewarding experience. in some far-flung location, to bring people together, encourage a sense of community and re-stimulate some of the old rituals of hospitality. Together with Jigme Drukpa, founder and principal of the Aa-ang It also keyed into the country’s famous policy of Gross National Music School and a nationally and internationally respected figure Happiness, bringing additional colour and variety to the everyday in the world of lives of hard-working villagers who would rarely have an Bhutanese traditional opportunity to participate in such an event. And participate they did, music, I toured enthusiastically appreciating the music, and often following ‘The Land of the performances with spirited traditional dance and song. Thunder Dragon’ for nearly thirty Our travels took us from Paro and Thimphu, north to Gasa, days, visiting out-of- across to the Tang Valley, and east to Shinghar, Lhimantang, the-way villages and Lhuntse, Dakila, Trashigang and Kanglung. Adapting to remote communities, circumstances and, of necessity, keeping the schedule flexible, where we were we also played in village halls, schools, colleges and even a nunnery, accommodated in as well as the usual farmhouses and private homes. When the farmhouses, and performed monsoon rains relented and the collapsing roads finally permitted it, for audiences fresh from their we visited the semi-nomadic yak-herding Brokpa, in their mountain village of Merak, inaccessible by road; rounding off the tour with a concert for the nuns of Chothphu Gompa.

The scenery throughout Bhutan is breathtaking; densely forested mountains with cascading streams, thundering rivers, vivid green rice paddies, teeming wildlife, colourful vegetation, and butterflies the size of swallows. But the roads are largely unsurfaced, switch-backing and undulating endlessly, so a journey of sixty miles will usually take six hours or more. Fortunately, Jigme is a veteran whose formative performing years were spent on these often non-signposted tracks and, knowing this, my wife Gabriele and I were able to relax, even when our route seemed to be bouncing down narrowing, glutinous lanes, or edging along dizzy heights with impenetrable forest on one side and plunging depths on the other. Often the rare milestones petered out altogether, the surface began to disintegrate, and some of the numerous cattle with which you often share the road, turned out to be argumentatively inclined. However, our welcome was always warm, spicy food was copious and the heartfelt music was appreciated. A truly unforgettable experience. www.paulcowlan.co.uk G

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OT PRESIDENT’S REPORT

hope that those who attended Headmaster, John Newton, for significant dent has been made felt likewise. For me, it was his wonderful support of the in the fund. When I set this up another opportunity to meet Association. Prior to that, I had initially, many wrote to me OTs young and old, as I have attended the traditional lunch promising support but, no doubt been doing at functions around hosted by former Presidents of for various good reasons, have the country, and it was also the OTA, to welcome or say not yet done so. As my very final a chance for OTs to meet farewell to, the School’s appeal for money(!), the new Headmaster, Headmaster and it was lovely I make a plea to all OTs: Lee Glaser. I am extremely to hear John’s wife, Catherine, PLEASE do support this grateful that Taunton Deane also speaking of her affection initiative if you possibly can, MP Jeremy Browne was for the Association. either by sending a cheque willing to support the occasion; (payable to The Old Tauntonian both he and the Headmaster As I have commented Association ) to David Bridges, spoke warmly about the School elsewhere in this Review , it was Taunton School, Taunton , and the OTA. also a memorable occasion in Somerset TA2 6AD or by BACS Belgium last October when I to Sort Code: 77-09-25/Acc t doesn’t seem many months When I set out on this journey, had the honour of laying a number: 15980360/Ref: OT + ago that I was asked to write I stated that one of my aims wreath to pay tribute to the your Surname + Initial. I a few words for the Review was to encourage the ‘younger sacrifice of so many former The support so far has been having just been installed as generation’, that is those who pupils who gave their lives enormously appreciated by our President. Now, my two-year would have been at the School during the Great War. younger members and many tenure is nearing its end and it during my time teaching there, I also attended the School recipients have made a special seems pertinent to reflect a little to attend events and thus keep Remembrance Service last point of thanking me, but it on that time. in touch with Taunton School. November, an event of even would be even better if this Therefore, it was very pleasing more significance than usual scheme continued for years to I am writing this having just to attend the London Club as three more names have been come, so please do try to help. returned from London and dinner last November where, added to the War Memorial the President’s Dinner. out of an attendance of 100, two thanks to the meticulous It has been both an honour and a Surrounded by the history and thirds had been at the School research by School Archivist, considerable privilege to serve as the magnificence of the Palace of during my time with forty-two John Brown. President of the Association for Westminster, I certainly enjoyed of those having left within the the past two years. Richard the occasion (thanks, in large past ten years. At that dinner it One of my other aims was to Willacy (Wills West 1981) will

part, to the enormous amount of was also a great privilege to be begin a President’s Fund so take over from me on Saturday time David Bridges put in) and I able to thank the departing that OTs who have only 2nd May and I do hope that

recently left School would be many of you will attend the able to attend OT events at annual reunion, both to meet old ...It was very pleasing to attend the London “ subsidised rates. There was a friends and to see at first hand pleasing, initial response to that, how Taunton School – your Club dinner last November, where, out of with over £3,000 raised or School – is shaping up in 2015. an attendance of 100, two thirds had been pledged. In the past 18 months “ or so, almost one hundred at the school during my time... ‘young’ OTs have benefitted from discounted tickets so a Hugh Todd G

GIVING SOUND ADVICE ames Eller (School House enormously from 1957) is pictured here with James’ vast experience J U6th student Donald Otim and knowledge of the in the Music Technology Suite. music recording James is one of the UK’s industry. We have leading bass players, been extremely having recorded and toured fortunate to have with many leading bands, someone of artists, writers and James’ calibre and producers including TheThe , enthusiasm to Mark Knopfler, Billy Bragg give advice and and Julian Cope. help to our Music http://jameseller.com/#about Technology students.”

Tim Waller, Taunton School David Bridges, Music Technology specialist, Old Tauntonian Secretary, Tauntonians support the school. who give of their time and expertise said: “Students over the past added: “There are many Some give financially but to help the current generation four years have benefitted different ways that Old there are others, like James, of students. ” G

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LONDON DINNER (RAF Club, Piccadilly) CORNISH LUNCH December 2014 MIDLAND CLUB: September 2014 Chairman’s ‘At Home’ May 2014

Class of 2006

SOUTHERN CLUB CHRISTMAS LUNCH 2014 Dr John Newton’s final OT Dinner WEIRFIELDIAN LUNCH September 2014 PRESIDENT’S CLUB Farewell Lunch to Dr John PRESIDENT’S CLUB and Catherine Newton Welcome Lunch to Lee and Liz Glaser

Lee Glaser Dr John Newton

Farewell to Dr John Newton (above) and welcome to new Headmaster, Lee Glaser (right).

Akua Rugg and Jane Barrie OT COURCHEVEL SKI CLUB Taken at the ‘OT Courchevel Ski Club’France, on Friday 6th February 2015. Pictured from left to right are: Neville Davis (Foxcombe 1974), Lesley-Ann Davis (Weirfield 1975), Karsten Marshall (Foxcombe 1977), Jeremy Rice (Wills East 1977), Andrew Davis (Foxcombe 1976) and Sophie Davis (Weirfield 2008).

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In his ten years much went on to keep TS ahead of the game.

DR JOHN HUNT NEWTON G Major extension to the Music School G International Baccalaureate introduced as an alternative to A levels MA (O xon), PhD, F Coll P, Dip MS (Ed) G New Senior School Girls’ House to meet growing demand G New Medical Centre G Creation of Taunton School International Middle School, off campus 2005-2014 G IT infrastructure upgraded including free Wi-Fi for all G Old Swimming Pool redesigned and upgraded s a Headmaster, I believe that a G Chapel organ replaced “ school education should be G Senior School Science Building upgraded A life changing, not merely a G Taunton School International (TSI, formerly TISC) daily ritual to be endured. I believe we substantially enlarged should be preparing the young for G Foyer built between Old Library and Performing Arts Centre the next fifty years of their G Expansion of Senior School Design Technology Department lives, not just the next five. G Inspections in all parts of the School resulted in glowing reports I believe that my job is to G Fairwater building extension equip pupils with G Extension of boys’ boarding values and experiences G Extension of Nursery facility for a future anywhere in G TSI achieved British Council accreditation the world.” G High-performance artificial surface replaced the shale hockey pitch

John was appointed In addition, a large scale refurbishment and development plan Head in January was completed including the replacement of ancient heating 2005. He, like his systems, a new culvert and flood attenuation scheme – and a toilet predecessor before on Uppers! him, was also only 39. He came to Taunton from The Foundation played a significant role in this period of Eastbourne College where he had redevelopment and expansion. Major contributors included: been a Housemaster. He has Honours Neil Woodyer, for the new Senior Girls House ‘Woodyer House’; in French and Russian and taught languages at Henry Keeling and Jan Nuttall, for a substantial Scholarship both King’s School Rochester and Bradfield College. He is endowment which facilitated the upgrading of the old swimming pool; married to Catherine and has two sons and two daughters. Col Peter Durrant OBE, whose substantial legacy went towards the new Durrant Astro; and a magnificent donation from the Taunton had weathered both a financial and a logistical storm but then Trustees of Ian Evans Lombe Foundation for the provision of more settled times enabled him to take stock and a Scholarship. to plan the way ahead towards what was to become a period of growth and stability. His ten years in the post saw Much work of a less exciting, but nonetheless important nature,

John has enormous reserves of energy and it did some quite extraordinary concerned both Governors and not take him long earn the respect and trust of management and included a robust plan “ “ those working with, and around, him. developments in educational to take the School through the economic His partnership with the Chairman of crisis, the continual updating of strategic Governors, Jane Barrie, and his relationship with facilities, financial strength development plans, risk management the School executive enabled him to build on his and the question of Public Benefit for belief that Taunton must equip pupils with and extra-curricular and which the School believes it has done values and experiences for a future anywhere in more than enough for the community to the world. pastoral innovation. satisfy the Charity Commissioners.

His ten years in post saw some quite extraordinary developments in In 2011 Old Tauntonians endorsed this remarkable period of educational facilities, financial strength and extra-curricular and progress by electing John as their President for the year. pastoral innovation. Taunton has become a highly professional business at all levels. In today’s fast moving environment a leading independent Mention must be made of the support John received from Catherine school must be just that to survive and to prosper. The School now has who, in addition to bringing up a young family and fulfilling her role excellent facilities, all well-maintained, and attracts the best of students. as Examinations Officer, was always at his side to We are an international school and proud to be so. support him in the dual role of host and hostess to so many Old Tauntonians, parents, visiting Without exception, Taunton School is blessed with a first class team of dignitaries and countless others. staff, both teaching and support. John set the pace and it is all credit to them that they were able to keep up with him – no easy task! The appointment of John Newton proved a notable success and it would seem that There were some notable appointments during this period, those reserves of energy were still well- including Duncan Sinclair as Head of TPS, Kathy McLauchlan charged and would stand him in good as Head of Pre-Prep and Lee Glaser, first as Deputy stead as he moved to take up his Headmaster and, as from January 2015, Headmaster. new post as Principal at Scotch College, Adelaide. Progress can be fairly summarised by following the marketing straplines we all see on the fleet of buses that transport Taunton School enjoys an enviable students from a wide area to the School each day. Earlier it position, much of it down to John, and was ‘going places’ followed by ‘leading the way’ now it’s long may it continue! ‘offering more’. It is this added value that has been at the root of the steady progress that led to the enviable position Michael Button (Wills East 1956) that Taunton enjoys today. TSEC Life Vice-President G

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PRESIDENT Hugh Todd [email protected] President-Elect Richard Willacy [email protected] OXBRIDGE SUCCESS Vice Presidents Michael Button [email protected] hree more of our Sixth Form students have been offered Michael Willacy CBE [email protected] T conditional places by Cambridge University as the battle for David Jenkins [email protected] Oxbridge places becomes more intense every year. Todd Freeman, Lizzie Merson and Ben Woolstencroft (Head Boy) deservedly The Headmaster [email protected] won through. (ex officio) Trustees Michael Colley [email protected] Todd hopes to study Natural Sciences at Old Tauntonian Trust Jonathan Stocker [email protected] Magdalene College, while (Reg Charity No. 1060388) Henry Keeling [email protected] Lizzie has been made an Charitable purposes offer to read English at connected with Taunton School Corpus Christi and Ben to study Classics Hon Assoc Secretary David Bridges [email protected] at Girton. Hon Assoc Treasurer Simon Smart [email protected] Such success is hard- Old Weirfieldian Rep Jan Nuttall [email protected] earned in an era when Publications Secretary Bex Miller [email protected] the competition has taken on a worldwide dimension Younger OT Representatives Ed Gauntlett [email protected] and application rates from within the UK have risen sharply. Will Pickard [email protected] These three have consistently devoted themselves to their academic LONDON CLUB Chair: Robin Birtwistle [email protected] studies over a period of time, while still contributing notably to the broader life of the school community. Tribute should also be paid to Hon Sec.: Julian Pike [email protected] the dedicated teachers who spend many hours assisting candidates WELSH CLUB Chair: John Ryland [email protected] each year with the application and preparation process. Hon Sec.: Philip Griffiths [email protected] WEST WALES CLUB Hon Sec.: Michael Colley [email protected] Headmaster, Lee Glaser, said: “This is a fantastic achievement by Todd, Lizzie and Ben. They thoroughly deserve their offers following years of hard WESTERN CLUB Chair: Judith Dawson [email protected] work both in the Prep School and the Senior School. They must now achieve Hon Sec.: David Bridges [email protected] the necessary grades and we will do all that we can to support them in G SOUTHERN CLUB Lunch Secretary: Chris Davis [email protected] their quest.” SCOTTISH CLUB Chair: Jo George [email protected] MIDLANDS CLUB Chair: Tom Jameson [email protected] SANDRA WICKHAM STADIUM Hon Sec.: Chris Ainley [email protected] aunton Vale Sports Club opened their new hockey pitch, CORNISH CLUB Chair: Charlie Barnard [email protected] T The Sandra Wickham Stadium , with innovative LED lights (the first AUSTRALIA (EAST) CLUB Chair: Mark Slee [email protected] in the country) in September 2014. The official opening was conducted by Jeremy Browne MP and the Chairman of Taunton AUSTRALIA (WEST) CLUB Chair: Andy Griffiths [email protected] Deane, John Williams. The naming of the facility after Sandra CANADIAN CLUB Chair: Chris Loat [email protected] Wickham is in recognition of all the coaching work she has done for the juniors for more than twenty years. USA (WEST) CLUB Chair: Dr Alan Morgan [email protected] HONG KONG CLUB Chair: Sabrina Leung [email protected] Sandra joined Weirfield in 1971 and became Head of Girls’ Games FRENCH CLUB Social Secs: Matt Forrester [email protected] and PE at Taunton School in January 1977, during the first year of full co-education. Her challenging task, in a school where boys’ sport was Mark Bootherstone [email protected] highly developed and successful, was to gain some sort of equal SPANISH CLUB Chairman: John Edwards [email protected] status for the girls. This she managed to do remarkably quickly, owing to her exceptional coaching skills and enthusiasm. Within a NEW ZEALAND CLUB Chair: Simon Guilliver [email protected] year, her 1st XI lost only one school match. There were three unbeaten DUBAI CLUB Chair: Anthony Forester-Bennett [email protected] seasons in the years that followed – no mean achievement SPORTS CLUB Chair: Will Osmond [email protected] considering hockey was then a two-term sport. Sandra retired from Taunton School in 2002. Hon Sec.: Katie Riseley [email protected] GOLFING SOCIETY President: Terry Davidge [email protected] Sandra was one of just five shortlisted candidates for the BBC’s G Hon Sec.: Richard Jowett [email protected] West of England ‘Unsung Hero’. 200 CLUB Chair: David Brighton [email protected] Hon Sec.: Jonathan Stocker [email protected] OT FREEMASONRY Old Tauntonian Lodge No. 5735 WM: Peter Blacow [email protected] Secretary: Graham Bowerman [email protected] Taunton School Lodge No. 8215 WM: David Noble [email protected] Secretary: Chris Harding [email protected] Old Tauntonian Chapter No. 5735 MEZ: Nigel Wood [email protected] Scribe E: Graham Bowerman [email protected]

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ONCE UPON A TIME Another great success for the Taunton School Music Department tudents and staff enjoyed another on-stage triumph with their latest musical production. A year after the critically acclaimed S Cats re-opened Taunton’s Brewhouse Theatre, the talented cast and crew received standing ovations – this time for Once Upon A Time , a musical journey through the life cycle of being human, with songs from great musicals including Matilda , Les Miserables , Miss Saigon , Tommy , West Side Story and many more. Seating upstairs provided a fantastic view from which to appreciate the choreography and colour of this performance, whilst seating at tables downstairs allowed the audience to become even more immersed in the action.

The storyline was beautifully narrated by Salvi De Sena, here; it had to be a top quality whose gesture and stage manner gave a personal and often band. Led by Mark Cracknell, humorous touch. Interspersed between parts of this who could often be seen journey were a range of well-known songs, all of which conducting with one found their place seamlessly in the plot. hand, whilst playing the keyboard with the other The cast worked together as an excellent, unified chorus (this man can definitely both in terms of harmony and manoeuvre. All singers multitask), it was the had at least one solo moment, or took the lead in an band who gave us that individual number; the range and breadth of talent in feeling that Staplegrove Road the cast was unbelievable. is the new ‘West End of Taunton’, and added vivacity

I was truly amazed to the life of each performance. The cast worked by the maturity of the Special praise should go to Mr

together as an performances, particularly in pieces Tim Waller whose talent for sound creation, keyboard programming where the characters were so much and playing gave depth and sonority to the sound quality. “excellent, unified “ older than the pupils. This was especially true of Sophie Gamble, My personal highlight has to be the encore, where the entire cast chorus both in who began and ended the play so planted all their enthusiasm into the singing of and dancing to beautifully. The significance of Rhythm of Life , bringing the audience to their feet, and injecting more terms of harmony her completing the journey in her sparkle and buzz into that theatre than I would have thought possible and manoeuvre. final year of the school was not lost for a cold and dark December evening. on the audience, who sat absorbed as the final movement of the show began, moved by its delicacy. Fiona Baker; what a show! I know that, as Director, you set high expectations and gave the performers and all involved the perfect Behind all great musical casts, (or often in front I believe), there must guidance and leadership to live up to. The biggest round of applause be a band. Of course no musical backing track would be good enough should be saved for you. Rebecca Miller (Jenkin 2006) G

MARTIN ELLIS: FAREWELL CONCERT CHANCE ENCOUNTER OTs helped celebrate the retirement of Martin Ellis with a Stephen Pugh , former Housmaster of Goodland House, recently farewell concert at St Martin’s Church, Dorking on 12th July. caught up with Will Loxton (Goodland 2009) at Cardiff Bay. Martin was Deputy Head of the Music Department and Loxton’s ship, directed the Chapel Choir 1973-86. HMS Somerset, was on a Public Tom Oliver (Foxcombe 1982) , one of the musicians, said: Relations day “Martin was an outstandingly successful choirmaster, drawing on his raising money sincere but humorous approach to his Christianity and musicianship. for poppies Recalling singing under him, winning singing competitions time and time by asking for again as a choir, visiting interesting and beautiful places where we sang, donations in are some of my most enduring and happy memories of Taunton, return for rising far above the hum drum.” G a tour.

Stephen said: “We bumped into each other by chance: Will came out of the ‘ward room’ as I descended a ladder!” G

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Old Tauntonian Lodge No 5735 Freemasons’ Hall, LIBRARY BOOK RETURNED: Great Queen Street, London WC Master – Peter Blacow Senior Warden – David Hughes 65 YEARS LATE Junior Warden – Teddy Tucker he story of a library book, returned Secretary – Graham Bowerman T: 01275 855293 to Taunton School 65 years after E: [email protected] T being borrowed, has received The October 2014 meeting saw the Installation of Peter Blacow as the 76th worldwide attention. Within hours of Master who appointed as Senior Warden, David Hughes and Junior being published, the remarkable Warden, Teddy Tucker. The Lodge carried out the ceremony of Passing on story was receiving coverage from behalf of Taunton School Lodge in March for Michael McLauchlan, and in national, regional and local media December we welcomed a new member, David Hendrick. February 2015 (both in print and online) and also saw the Initiation of another new member, Johnny Bouchier. featured on that evening’s BBC The Lodge is delighted to see its membership swell and to have the Radio news bulletins. Coverage opportunity of working closely with Taunton School Lodge. then extended further afield with Michael Button was appointed a Senior Visiting Officer for Metropolitan news reports from Grand Lodge and Paul Reed received promotion to London Grand Rank. Australia, France and David Hughes completed his year as an active Officer of Grand Lodge America – while the story (AGDC) in April and will assume the Mastership in October 2015. was also the subject of a Radio 2 Afternoon Show phone-in. The Public School Lodges Council Festival 2014 was held at Repton in May with OT Lodge represented. The 2015 Festival will be held on 30th May at Wellington College, Crowthorne, Berkshire where the Sir Jay Tidmarsh (School House 1949) was MW Grand Master, HRH The Duke of Kent, is Visitor. clearing out his book collection when he came across the overdue tome – Ashenden by W. Somerset Maugham. Taunton School Lodge No 8215 “I don’t know why, but I just happened to open the front cover and was Masonic Hall, The Crescent, Taunton shocked to see ‘Property of Taunton School’ printed inside. I thought I should Master – David Noble do the decent thing and return the book – paying my dues at the same time.” Senior Warden – Robert Webb Junior Warden – Richard Hemmings Sir Jay has paid the Secretary – Chris Harding T: 01202 733694 overdue ‘fine’ – and more

E: [email protected] I am announcing an – by making a £1,500 donation to the School Another busy year for the Lodge. David Noble was inducted into the chair amnesty to all OTs Foundation to go as the quadragesimus octavos Master in May 2014 under dispensation, “ towards the development who harbour Taunton as he was also Master of the Old Tauntonian Lodge. Nicholas Smith was of the Library. welcomed as a new member in September, and Ian James was Passed in “ November. The Lodge has been fortunate in attracting a number of School library books on Sir Jay and his wife, parents of children at TS as new members or joining members and they their shelves at home – Lady Virginia, returned are proving to be a great asset to the Lodge. A cluster meeting of the to Taunton School and Federation of School Lodges was held under the banner of the Richard I know I’m one! Huish Lodge, Taunton in October 2014 and proved to be a great success were given a lunch in with representation from TS Lodge, King’s, Queen’s, and Wellington Nigel Longstreet, their honour, hosted by School Lodges. The 2014 FSL Festival was held at Worksop College in Foundation Director the Chair of Governors, September and was attended by David Jenkins (President of the Jane Barrie. Federation) and Michael Button. The 2015 Festival will be held on 5th September at Solihull School. Taunton School Lodge will be hosting Neil Longstreet, Foundation Director, the Festival in 2018. said: “ Sir Jay is a much valued Congratulations to Julian Frost who has been promoted to PPrAGDC in supporter of the Foundation and we the Provincial Grand Lodge of Somerset and will be invested in April. were absolutely delighted to accept the return of his library book, Old Tauntonian Royal Arch Chapter together with an extraordinarily generous cheque to cover the No 5735. Mark Masons’ Hall, London SW appropriate ‘fine’ after a mere Z. Nigel Wood H. Julian Frost J. David Noble 65 years! Inspired by Scribe E: Graham Bowerman T: 01275 855293 Sir Jay’s actions, I am E: [email protected] announcing an amnesty to all Peter Blacow installed Nigel Wood as his successor Z in November 2014 OTs who harbour Taunton while at the same meeting Gary Chaffey was presented with Grand School library books on their Chapter Certificate. In April the Chapter celebrated the 50th anniversary shelves at home – I know I’m of Malcolm Wicks membership and warmly congratulated him on his one! Please contact me via: magnificent achievement. Congratulations were also extended to [email protected] David Hughes on his appointment to Grand Chapter Rank as PGStdB or 01823 703159 and let’s see if and to Paul Reed on his appointment to London Grand Chapter Rank. we can raise more funds which will go towards developing MEETINGS 2014 the School Library.” OTL 6th Feb, 6th March, 2nd October (Inst) , 4th Dec – 16.30hrs TSL 10th Feb, 15th May (Inst) , 25th Sept, 27th Nov – 18.15hrs Among OTs to take advantage of the book amnesty has been Jeremy Rossiter (Foxcombe 1986) pictured above with OTC 7th April, 3rd November (Inst) 16.00hrs Neil Longstreet. He travelled down from Weston to return a copy All Old Tauntonian Freemasons are cordially invited to attend our of Handel’s Messiah and also made a donation to the School meetings and will be made most welcome. G Library appeal. G

15 Three new members were welcomhetdt inptos t:h/e L/o dtgae uthnrotugoh n.web-intouch.com 15 2012/13: Dominic Bryant OLD TAUNTONIAN ASSOCIATION

OT REUNION WEEKEND HOW HAS TAUNTON Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd May 2015 SCHOOL INFLUENCED e extend a warm welcome to you all, but this year we would be particularly delighted to welcome leavers from YOUR WORKING LIFE? W 1965, 1975, 1980, 1985, 1990, 1995 and 2005 as they ‘celebrate’ significant anniversaries in 2015. e’re always on the look-out for ways to keep Taunton School in the public eye and a new strategy has arisen which requires OT The OTA AGM will be held in the Music School at 11.45am and W participation, with no investment required other than a little of there will be a Family Hog Roast with cash bar from 12.30pm your time. Positive coverage about Taunton School would benefit us on Chapel Green. all, as well as giving a little reflected glory to the school.

There will be a Reunion Dinner with Cash Bar in the Old For the past three years we have been working with PR consultants Library at 7.30pm with reception drinks from 6.30pm. Empica to generate stories for the national and international media, resulting in an impressive variety of coverage. What we’d like you to During the evening the new Headmaster, Mr Lee Glaser, do is think about how your experience as a student at TS influenced will give a brief update on the successes of the past year the person you’ve become and the way you do things, particularly in together with news of all the exciting things currently your professional life. happening at Taunton School. We will also be installing your new Association President for 2015-17, G Does the way you motivate other people reflect the team-working Mr Richard Willacy (Wills West 1981) . ethics you absorbed at school?

On Sunday, there will be an opportunity to worship with the G Is your approach to marketing influenced by strategies of teachers school in the Chapel where the preacher will be Simon who engaged the younger you in new interests? Nicholson (Wills East 1973) . Following the Act of Remembrance outside the Science Block War Memorial, G Do you succeed in the pursuit of particular goals because we taught there will be time to chat over coffee before enjoying a 2-course you how to effectively channel a particular passion? Sunday Lunch in the Old Library. G Is the way you manage your working life the result of influences Reserve your places, and see who else will be there, you absorbed at TS? by logging into OTs Online: https://taunton.web-intouch.com or by completing the booking G Do you have responsibilities for governance that you exercise in a form accompanying way which reflects values instilled, or life lessons learned, under this OT Review. G our guidance?

The idea is that Empica will write news releases about OTs, each featuring one or more case studies, focusing primarily on what you are doing now and referencing your time as a student at TS and your views on the school’s positive influence. All OTs who participate will be given the opportunity to vet any resulting story before it is released.

Please email Nicki Sampson ([email protected]) with your contact details. By all means include brief details of how you feel your experience at TS has influenced the way you work now, but Nicki is happy to call you for a verbal briefing if you’d rather talk it through.

We hope many of you will choose to participate and share the benefit of some well-placed media coverage. For proof of Empica’s effectiveness, simply enter ‘Taunton School’ in the search boxes on The Daily Telegraph , The Independent , Western Daily Press and IE Today websites – all key media for us. www.empica.com G

Dillington as I wanted to share my different angles including knowledge. My two business partners literature, language, history MAKING WAVES are both teachers who wanted to do and contemporary impact. Adam D’Souza (Marshall 2006) company creating exclusive something different, something new. Students will have the [email protected] has residential courses in historic, Inspired by a meeting with former opportunity to try cue-scripting, launched an luxury surroundings. Taunton School Headmaster, the authentic Shakespearean education The first venture for the Dr John Newton, when he talked acting technique and prepare organisation that company was a course about how parents wished they scenes for performance. is pioneering entitled A Christmas could go back to school, we began to new ways Shakespeare Retreat . brainstorm ideas. The Shakespeare Discounts are available for of learning Academy is the result.” OTs, current parents and for adults. D’Souza, a world debating grandparents – simply quote champion while at school, A current course focuses on two ‘Taunton School’ when enquiring. The Shakespeare studied Ancient History at Shakespeare plays, Henry V and http://www.shakespeare- Academy is a university. “I began lecturing at Twelfth Night . Classes cover academy.com G

16 https: // taunton.web-intouch.com Old Tauntonian Review

ALL CHANGE! TAUNTON SCHOOL: Grateful thanks to Bev Cox (Babbingly 1976) who has been the OT Review Editor for the past GOOD FOR BUSINESS two years. She has been a tremendous support Fiona Harvey (Bevan 1993) to me during that time. I am delighted that [email protected] Bex Miller (Jenkin 2006) , who is an English Fiona writes: “We started teacher at Taunton School, has agreed to become Bex Miller our business 12 years ago with the Editor for the next two years. two chalets in the Sainte Foy Resort, a hidden gem of a ski My thanks also to Allan Green (Goodland 1968) who is stepping resort and now run over 30 down as the OT French Club Chairman. Trying to co-ordinate OTs properties. It was my Business spread across a large country is not easy so I am extremely grateful Studies lessons at Taunton School to Allan for organising events for us. A replacement, as yet, hasn’t that gave me the entrepreneurial spirit! stepped forward, so if you would like to be my contact in France, then I’d be more than delighted to hear from you! Pictured are my sons who are both in the local Sainte Foy Ski Club - race training at age 7! Grateful thanks to Bruce Jeffares (School House I am happy to offer a special 12% discount to OTs for 1963) who has done a marvellous job at the the 2015/16 season to celebrate our 13th year in business!” helm of the OT Cornish Club. He organised www.premiere-neige.com some memorable lunches and was always an extremely welcoming host. Isobel Forester-Bennett (Weirfield 2013) Charlie Barnard (Murray 1993 ) is taking Charlie Barnard Isobel recently heard that she had been successful with her up the reins and we look forward to her first application for business sponsorship from the supermarket chain event, which is a lunch at The Headland Hotel, Morrisons. She will be on their University Training Scheme from Newquay on Sunday 13th September. September 2015.

It’s been an enormous pleasure working with OT President Hugh Isobel says: “I had to go to Manchester for a tough, full day of Todd who is bowing out at the reunion weekend in May. Hugh has Apprentice type tests and assessments. Morrisons called me a few days been a brilliant guinea pig as the first President to be in the post for later with the good news. This means that for three years I will work for 2 years under recent reforms of the OTA. He has established five weeks out of six in their offices and study the other week at Bradford The President’s Fund and I hope that OTs will continue to support University. After three years I will get a degree in Business Management this wonderful initiative in providing a little and – most importantly in this day and age – am guaranteed a job when financial support for younger OTs to attend I graduate. The good news for me is that there are no fees. Even better, events. On 2nd May, Richard Willacy (Wills I will be on a salary all through University which should easily cover my West 1981) will be installed as your OT rent and living expenses. It is unbelievable.” President until 2017 and I look forward to working with him as he takes the Association Isobel’s father, Anthony (Goodland 1978) commented: “Isobel loved Richard Willacy forward. Like policemen, OT Presidents are the Business Studies course at Taunton School, and the teachers clearly getting younger! The future of the Association inspired her and were a very positive influence. That is what I paid school is in the hands of young OTs. fees for!” [email protected] I shall be shortly sending out an email inviting nominations for [email protected] G OT President 2017-19. Communication by email is cheaper – do we have yours? [email protected] G LOOKING SMART... OT BLAZERS A new range of 70% Luxury Mercerised Cotton/30% Nylon socks in traditional OT Colours is now available at £6.50 per pair (inc. p&p) : sizes 4-7, 7-10, 11-14, 7-10/Long (£10). Email: [email protected]

All U6th boys are now presented with a ‘dated’ OT tie when they leave. ‘Class of’ ties for other year groups may be purchased for £10 Following the great success at the London Club Christmas (inc. p&p) . However, a definite order of 30 minimum is required per dinner a number of OTs were interested in purchasing an year group. Contact members of your year group through normal OT blazer. Please contact: www.blagattas.co.uk G channels or through OTs Online: https://taunton.web-intouch.com Email: [email protected] G

https: // taunton.web-intouch.com 17 OBITUARY

Michael Edward Wensley Martin John Wilsmhurst (Fairwater 1942-47) (Fairwater 1956-62) Marjorie Jane Smith née Fry 7 October 1930 – 6 January 2015 3 September 1943 – (Weirfield School 1943-49) 1 November 2014 23 July 1932 – 10 July 2014 Many will remember Mike (or ‘Mick’ as he was known to his family and Martin was Marjorie was the adopted daughter of Aubrey and close friends) Wensley born and Clarice Fry. She grew up in Wellington where her as a cheerful member brought up father was a partner in the jewellers, Porter and of the swimming in Surrey and Fry. Marjorie joined Weirfield School as a day girl team, the Sea was sent and then as a boarder during the war. Cadets and the to Taunton She married Peter Smith whose career in the Choir. He excelled School in Royal Air Force took them around the at tennis, winning 1956, globe. When it came to educating their the Junior Trophy following his children, their daughter Susan joined in 1946, older brother, Weirfield and son Robert joined Thone but he left Barry, to and later School House. Marjorie was

Fairwater Fairwater always full of life and embraced the early to House. challenges of service life. Marjorie and

study A highly Peter retired to Bracknell in Berkshire and engineering. intelligent boy, he was promoted a enjoyed life to the full with family and friends. After National year after his first term and went on Susan Farrant (Weirfield School 1972) G“ Service he stayed to do well academically. He was on in the Army for Head of Fairwater under Brian some years, became a member of the Hastilow and Head Boy. Marjorie was always full of life and SAS and served in Europe, with He excelled at tennis, representing distinction, with Templar in Malaya. the school in ’61 and as Captain embraced the challenges of service life. in ’62. He was a keen and “ talented thespian with notable

He was always performances including Master Ford in The Merry Wives of the perfect mine Windsor which he played “with Richard Neil Gray customary assurance and authority” host ...courteous, (Fairwater 1947-52) “ “ and it is still talked about round 15 September 1935 – 14 June 2014 immaculately dressed The Globe. Following National Service, Neil became and clearly admired After Taunton School he went to a trainee for Brooke Bond where he Bristol University, moving to Bristol worked as a tea buyer and taster. by all his staff. City Highways Department to whom After 23 years in India, he then moved to he was articled. From there he Indonesia and Canada and then back to qualified as a Chartered Civil India before retiring to Barnes, South West He managed tea plantations in Assam, Engineer and soon afterwards moved London in 1986. Whilst at Taunton School, worked in Singapore and Australia in to Hampshire. First, he joined a Neil played 1st XV Rugby, 1st XI Hockey different managerial positions, partnership, which, amongst other and 1st XI Cricket. He also excelled at returning to England and Europe only things, built Hythe Marina, on swimming, as did his brother John Gray, briefly for vacations and to visit friends Southampton Water, a location where (Fairwater 1957) who was poached from the and family. we have held many OT events. Junior School when they were short of swimmers! G He left this partnership to set up his His personality was well-suited to hotel on his own and remained a sole and restaurant management, which practitioner for the remainder brought him back to England for some of his career based at his home years until a chance meeting with an near Romsey. OT in Regent Street saw him installed as resident Manager and Secretary of the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club, which To all who he regarded as his ideal job! knew him he was a He was always the perfect mine host …courteous, immaculately dressed “wise and thoughtful and clearly admired by all his staff; he really knew how to manage people friend and offered “ from all walks of life – treating them with respect yet with a firm hand, advice only when as needed. A constant in his life seemed to be a dog, usually a pale asked. It was yellow Labrador; many will remember the famous Bosun who had the run invariably right. of the North Sea Hotel in Felixstowe and the RBYC. He was a keen Rotarian, Past President of the New Forest Club Later he lived briefly in France before and a Paul Harris Fellow. settling back in Taunton, but his health Sailing was a passion and he shared sadly failed and he died in January 3 separate boats with brother, this year after 84 years lived to the full. Barry. To all who knew him he was a wise and thoughtful friend He is survived by his sister, Rosemary and offered advice only when asked. (Weirfield School 1947) It was invariably right. Alan Morgan (Fairwater 1949) G Peter Raw (Fairwater 1959) G

18 https: // taunton.web-intouch.com Old Tauntonian Review

BIRTHS CARLESS to Helen (née Sloley) Besley ’03 and Craig Annabelle Rose – 30.09.14 DONKERSLEY to Louisa (née Harman) Jenkin ’92 and Richard Noah James – 23.11.14 DYKE to Catherine (née Allen) Murray ’96 and Jonathan Emily May – 12.11.14 HANKINS to Steve Wills West ’89 and Nicola Harry James – 23.10.14 KIRBY to Alistair Evans ’08 and Niki Matilda Noelle Susan – 23.12.14 MOON PARK to Maria (Cristina Moon) Gloucester ’00 and Lloyd Logan Han So – 19.07.14 PAINTER to Simon Fairwater ’96 and Laura Albert Christopher – 18.12.14 PARKER to Graham Fairwater ’92 and Tia Sohi Willow Ivy-Ann – 13.09.14 SALISBURY to Michael Evans ’98 and Naomi Heath Levon Scott-Salisbury – 13.08.14 SALTER to Marc Wills East ’94 and Olivia Casper Hugh Francis – 28.09.14 SMITH to Lloyd Fairwater ’00 and Maria Logan Han So – 19.07.14 TAYLOR to Nicholas Goodland ‘00 and April Michael Burton – 19.01.14 THORPE to Marcus Foxcombe ’89 and Vanessa Alexander Donald Douglas – 28.11.14 WILSON to Adam Wills East ’02 and Carly Skye Lily – 04.05.14 WOODING to OJ Evans ’02 and Eva Verity Claire – 26.09.14 YOUNG to Veryan (née Ridler) Gloucester ’95 and Rob Jake James – 06.08.14

ENGAGEMENTS Wedding of John Long (Marshall 1992) SAMANTHA COOPER (Besley 2004) to Tom Jackson in Taunton School Chapel ALEX LARGE (Marshall 2006) to Sarah Browning RHIANNON LLEWELLYN (Weirfield 2006) to The Reverend Doctor Brutus Green CF

RICHARD PARSONS (Wills West 2005) to Charlotte Fudge M

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LAURENCE PAUL (Evans 2009) to Hannah Clapham i n

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SARAH POOLE (Gloucester 2001) to Mark Bellew l

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PHIL REID (Wills West 2001) to Chrissymas Ogbonnaya o

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h MARRIAGES y BARCLAY Robert Wills West ’00 to Carrie 02.08.14 FENTON Toby Wills West ’93 to Lizzie 29.11.14 GREEN Daniel Wills East ’04 to Elizabeth 15.11.14 HALL Simon Fairwater ’96 to Karen 0.09.14 LISTON Timothy Wills West ’02 to Lesley 29.08.14 LONG John Marshall ’92 to Linda 11.08.14 Wedding of Jam O’GRADY Rachael (née Guilor) Besley ’01 to Paul 21.06.14 es Kennedy (Goodland 2001) in PAGE Matthew Evans ’00 to Jacqui 08.08.14 Taunton School Chapel PATTEN Tony School House ’74 to Sarah 19.10.14 PINE Ben Wills West ’97 to Stephanie 06.09.14 ROBINSON James Goodland ’03 to Laura 26.10.14 TYACK Nico Evans ’99 to Rachel 25.10.14

DEATHS ANDREWS John Burpitt Somerset ’47-55 17.10.14 ANTOINE John Russell Wills East ’32-’42 12.01.15 BELL Colin Francis (OT President 1999) School House ’51-’54 01.11.14 BWYE Neville Danny Ian Somerset ’48-’55 08.06.14 COZENS Gerald Jarvis Senior Day Boys ’32-’38 26.01.15 DIXON John Andrew Stuart Somerset ’51-’57 24.02.15 EAMES Janet Weirfield School ’54-’62 23.02.15 GOODSON O.B.E. Harold John School House ’41-’49 26.01.15 GUNSTONE Charles Philip Fairwater ’33-’38 19.06.14 HANNAGAN Michael John Fairwater ’38-’47 04.05.14 HEWLETT Diana Mary (née Cavalier) Weirfield School ’41-’53 12.11.14 HOLMES John Maxwell Wilson Fairwater ’42-’48 08.08.14 HYDE Beatrice Mary (née Hebditch) Weirfield School ’25-’35 20.10.14 LEE Lilian Marjorie June Weirfield School ’42-’45 07.06.14 MORGAN Alun Malcolm Wills West ’48-’52 02.10.14 OAKSHATT John Former Staff ’76-’86 15.03.15 RANDALL Guy Littleton Senior Day Boys ’35-’43 08.11.14 ROBERTS Richard Charles Henry Fairwater ’40-’51 21.12.14 SMITH Marjorie Jane (née Fry) Weirfield School ’41-’48 10.07.14 WENSLEY Michael Edward Fairwater ’42-’47 06.01.14 Weddiing off Jamess Robiinsson WILMSHURST Martin John Fairwater ’56-’62 01.11.14 ((Goodlland 2003))

19 https: // taunton.web-intouch.com 119 9 OLD TAUNTONIAN ASSOCIATION

OT PRESIDENT’S DINNER FORTHCOMING EVENTS February 2015 MAY 2015 Saturday 2 OTA Reunion Weekend Taunton School 10 year reunion for leavers from 2005 20 year reunion for leavers from 1995 25 year reunion for leavers from 1990 30 year reunion for leavers from 1985 35 year reunion for leavers from 1980 40 year reunion for leavers from 1975 50 year reunion for leavers from 1965 OTA Committee Meeting 10.15am Taunton School OTA AGM 11.45am Taunton School Scenes from the Family Hog Roast 12.30pm Taunton School President’s Dinner Reunion Dinner 6.30pm Taunton School held at The House Sunday 3 Chapel and Lunch 10.30am Taunton School of Commons Saturday 9 West Wales Dinner 7.00pm The Old Kings Arms, SA71 4JS JUNE 2015 Saturday 27 Midland Club Lunch 12.30pm The Bridge, B50 4BG SEPTEMBER 2015 Friday 11 Western Club Lunch 1.00pm Taunton School Sunday 13 Cornish Club Lunch 12.00pm The Headland Hotel, TR7 1EW Saturday 26 Welsh Club Dinner 7.30pm OCTOBER 2015 Saturday 3 OTA Committee Meeting 10.30am Taunton School Western Club Dinner 6.30pm Taunton School NOVEMBER 2015 A LOOK TO THE PAST... Friday 6 Western Club Lunch 1.00pm Taunton School Thursday 26 London Club Dinner 6.30pm RAF Club, Piccadilly A GLIMPSE OF THE FUTURE DECEMBER 2015 Monday 7 Western Club e are pleased to announce that the Archive. At the moment you can access Christmas Lunch 12.30pm Taunton School OT Digital Archive will go live on the following: W 16th June 2015 . We have selected G Tauntonian Magazines from 1882-2014 this date as it was on 16th June 1847 G A selection of Weirfield Magazines that the Rev James Bewglass accepted the from 1882-1979 offer to be the first Headmaster of G House photos Taunton School. G Sports photos G Music & Drama photos It has been a long road to get to where G ‘Class of’ photos 2006-14 we are and the journey is by no means G k ‘Zoomable’ whole-school photos u .

over! I am enormously grateful to o c from 1900-2009 . s c Phil Griffiths (Fairwater 1959) for his G i Original Architect Drawings from 1867 h initiative and drive in helping get this p a G …and so much more! r g project off the ground. We have spent r e t c

many hours sourcing and scanning We welcome your input to help a r a documents and photographs for develop this digital archive to preserve h c . inclusion. We are also grateful to the history of Taunton School and w w w

Simon Smart (OT Treasurer) and the make it available to future generations

8

OT Committee for the financial support of OTs; we urge OTs of all ages to get 0 0 9 from OT funds. involved . You will have photos and 7 2

3

memories that we don’t currently have – 2 8 1

We know there are gaps in the archive please send them in! 0

: l and we hope that Old Tauntonians and e T

We welcome

Old Weirfieldians will help us plug them. You can pre-book your access to the s c i

We are particularly interested in receiving Archive by sending a cheque h p

your input to help a photographs. High-resolution scans are (payable to Taunton School) to r G

r e

required and they can be sent to David Bridges, Taunton School, t

“develop this digital c “ a [email protected] but if you don’t Taunton, Somerset, TA2 6AD or by r a h have access to a scanner then originals making a BACS payment to: archive to preserve C

y b may be sent to David Bridges at Taunton Sort Code: 40-44-04 n g

the history of i

School; they will be returned. Acc no: 81781235 s e D

Ref: OT + your surname Photograph the QR code above with a &

Taunton School A one-off, lifetime payment of £15 will and initial + DA t

smartphone to connect to OTs Online. n i G r allow you access to the OT Digital (eg: OTBridgesDDA) P 20 https: // taunton.web-intouch.com