New New 2011/2012 Stowe the opening of Centre Stowe celebrates first-class facility Equestrian Equestrian

Picnic for two thousand Picnic for two thousand on the South Front Jubilee Jubilee Celebrations A Level llence Exce Stoics achieve best-ever results in the Summer exams

Stowe School 2011/2012 1280 818000 ) 0 ( Christopher Honeyman Brown, Honeyman Brown, Christopher FCA (Chairman) FRICSJohn R C Arkwright, A Bewes, BA, FCA Jonathan M Brunskill, BSc, MRICSMs Julie C Admiral Sir James Burnell- MA CBE, Nugent, KCB, David W Cheyne Arch, Juliet Colman, BA, Dip RIBA, SCA BA, Simon C Creedy Smith, Chairman) (Vice ACA M Fletcher, The Revd Jonathan J MA M Ivo H B Forde (Chairman OS Committee) BSc, Sarah J Gurr, Professor ARCS, DIC PhD, MA Mrs Joanne E Hastie-Smith David Hudson, MA (Cantab) MA Robert A Lankester, Lord Magan of Castletown Lady Stringer BA, MIMC Christopher J Tate, MA Mrs Susan M van der Veen, Dip Ed (Oxon), MA (Warwick), BA, MSc Michael B M Porter, (Secretary to the Governors) * Old Stoic Correct as of 1st September 2012 as of 1st September Correct * * * * * * * * Governing Body Registered Charity No. 310639 CharityRegistered No. School Stowe Stowe MK18 5EH United Kingdom +44 Telephone: e-mail: [email protected] www stowe.co.uk Mrs Kathy Editorial Campbell

At the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 25 June. Ben also achieved the highest individual score Paralympics, in August, Stephen Hawking said: “We are for the 1st XI in living memory! all different, there is no such thing as a standard or At this year’s Speech Day we were able to celebrate the -of-the-mill human being; but we share the same achievements of Stoics alongside Her Majesty The human spirit. What is important is that we have the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. The South Front was home ability to create. This creativity can take many forms, to possibly the most beautiful Jubilee garden party with from physical achievement to theoretical physics. tables arranged to seat over 2,000 guests adorned with However difficult life may seem, there is always red, white and blue bunting. It was a spectacular sight something you can do and succeed at”. Stowe is a which will undoubtedly hold a special place in the school that embraces individuality and the pages of minds of many. this edition of The Stoic illustrate, without a doubt, that life at Stowe is most definitely not run-of-the mill. Thank you to all staff and Stoics who have provided articles and photographs, and to Angela Bartlett at Continuing the Olympic theme, our athletes really MCC Design. excelled on Sports Day this year as seven girls’ records and four boys’ records were broken during the afternoon. Our cricketers, (Lower Sixth, Grafton) and Jake Olley (Lower Sixth, Chandos) also broke the School’s 1st XI record in their opening partnership against School on Kathy Campbell, Editor

The Stoic 1 Stowe School 2011/2012

ON THE COVER... Oxford Society 71 Activities Durrell Society 72-73 The Duke of Edinburgh Award 104-105 New Equestrian Centre 7 Creative Writing: ‘The Dream of Reality’ 74 Stowe celebrates the opening of first-class facility Stowe CCF: Army, RAF and Naval Sections 106-107 Gallery: Octavia Trevor 75 Jubilee Celebrations 62-63 Beagling 108 Picnic for two thousand on the South Front Service at Stowe 109 Trips and Visits A Level Excellence 16 Chapel 110 Salmon Fishing 76-77 Stoics achieve best-ever results in the Summer exams Crossfire 111 in Alaska Creative Writing: ‘CUP OF CONFUSION’ 112 Santepheap 78-79 Cambodian Children’s Gallery: Claire Langer / Idil Savaskan 113 House of Peace Academic 129 Speech Day 04-11 Sport Valete 12-13 Houses 76 Rugby 116-124 Debbie Borthwick 14 BOYS’ Hockey 125-128 Bruce 38-39 Gallery: 15 GIRLS’ Hockey 129-131 Chandos 40-41 Wilhemina McFadden SHPT Lacrosse 132-134 cHATHAM 42-43 Creative Writing: 16 ANOTHER YEAR, ANOTHER MILESTONE 80 135-139 ‘THE Envy’ COBHAM 44-45 Researching the restoration 81 BOYS’ TENNIS 140-141 04 Academic Report 16 Grafton 46-47 FEATURE: ATAXIA 82-83 GIRLS’ TENNIS 142-144 Grenville 48-49 MATHS Report 18 Creative Writing: ‘SKIN’ 84 Basketball 145 Lyttelton 50-51 ENGLISH Report 19 Gallery: Silviya Nenkova / Ye Shi 85 Netball 146 Nugent 52-53 SCIENCE Report 20-21 football / CROSS-COUNTRY 147 Queen’s 54-55 GEOGRAPHY Report 22 Athletics 148-149 Stanhope 56-57 MUSIC HISTORY Report 23 ROWING 150 Temple 58-59 Music at sTOWE 86-89 Religious Studies Report 24 SAILING 151 Walpole 60-61 Creative Writing: ‘UNTOLD REGRETS’ 90 Sports Science and PE Report 25 Equestrian / Clay Pigeon Shooting / POLO 152 FEATURE: Jubilee Celebrations 62-63 Gallery: María Bartolomé 91 LANGUAGES Report 26-28 Badminton / GOLF / KARATE 153 Creative Writing: ‘26th December 1932’ 64 Classics Report 29 SQUASH 154 Gallery: Harriet Farr / Alexander Miarli 65 Drama Swimming 155 Politics and economics Report 30 Water polo 156 ICT Report 31 Clubs and Societies OUR COUNTRY’S GOOD 92-93 MACBETH 94 Gallery: Silviya Nenkova / Idil Savaskan / 157 PSHE Report 32 Emily Beatty The XX Group / 66 TOO MUCH PUNCH FOR JUDY 95 HISTORY OF ART Report 33 73 Inter-house debating GCSE Drama 96-97 DT Report 34-35 The Biomedical Society 67 AS DRAMA 98 Current Affairs 68 and International A2 DRAMA 99 Old Stoics Relations Profiles 100-101 The Summer party 36 Business Studies 69 Creative Writing: ‘earth’s white fur coat’ 102 Classic cars 36 Literary Society 70 Gallery: Lily Newman / 103 OS Annual dinner and agm 37 Pitt Society 71 Charlotte Bradshaw / Matthew Corless 92

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Speech Day

For the first time for many years the First to everyone who has contributed to him go; I will miss his calm advice, we will We are not, and have never intended The challenge now is to accelerate that Mansion is free of scaffolding although we the multitude of projects or to our all miss his contribution. to be, an academic hothouse in the rate of academic improvement, reflected start work soon to convert Nugent into a Scholarship Fund. Thank you for the tradition of some schools. not just by the headline measure of I am delighted to announce that Simon full boarding house for girls. generosity of your sustained support, results but more importantly by the Creedy Smith has been appointed as We believe passionately in the especially so in these difficult times, as degree of value added – the success of The Music Room is being restored Marten’s successor as Vice Chairman. development of the whole child – without your help our development plan your children in gaining results at public through the summer, and will be back in intellect, character, personality. We would be significantly delayed. This year we carried out an important exams over and above what they might use by September and will we hope be believe that academic studies must be market research study, to understand how reasonably have expected. Your followed by other internal restorations. Financially, we are in good heart, learnt in tandem with life skills, social the market perceives us and where we Governors and Headmaster are sufficiently so to be able to continue to skills, civic awareness and a sense of This year saw further improvement need to focus our attention. Many of you completely committed to this priority. invest in improving our facilities and, place in the world. to our boys’ boarding houses with gave up your time to contribute, and thank importantly for you, to keep fees increases The second theme was about pupils’ work substantial expenditure on Grafton you for being so willing to do so. Our investment in classrooms, upgrading at modest levels, just about the current of the Science labs, improvement in ethic and this is something which we will and Bruce and during the summer, I am constantly told that a school is not a rate of inflation classroom technology, complete overhaul be taking forward. we will upgrade Cobham. business. It may not be in the traditional To everyone who works at Stowe, I offer of the Art School and the new Music In part this is about the environment – sense – but like any business it has its own I am delighted to be able to announce my grateful thanks for your continued School all demonstrate our investment the insistence on on time, every way of doing things, its own value system, that after many months we have at last, effort and commitment, giving so often as in academic improvement. time, of pieces of work, encouragement processes and organisation. Stowe is an Chairman of Governors, on Thursday, received formal planning you do above and beyond the call of duty to study, to read, to debate, to enquire, Mr Christopher Honeyman Brown exceptional school, and like every The range of non-academic activities approval for both the new Golf Course and out of your own time. to try and if not successful to try again, exceptional business it must serve its supports our quest to inspire each child to and the new Music School. to persevere. To my Governor colleagues – my grateful customers – and in a school that means discover their talents, and our willingness Our Music School Appeal is coming to an thanks for another year of your support the parents and the pupils. With the cost constantly to invest means that the activity In part it is about inspiring young people Chairman of Governors’ Speech end although there are still opportunities, and hard work, all given so freely and of private education what it is, and likely to range is as wide as any of our competitors. to want to do these things and to want to My Lords, High Sheriff, Fellow Governors, for those who wish to be a part of this without complaint. increase through the years, it is essential This year riding, eventing, dressage, trials explore, to discover, to be curious. And Headmaster, Ladies and Gentlemen. project, to make a contribution to the that we listen to you, that we react to what biking have all been added. this is the third theme. This year we have seen Julie Brunskill join A warm welcome to you all to another Appeal. We are optimistic that site you say about what you want from us, and and Chris Wightman retire. Julie is highly It is no accident that Stoics leave this place At Stowe inspiration starts the moment clearance work can soon commence and we deliver to your expectations. Speech Day at Stowe. experienced in property matters; Chris has to go out into the world to become you cross the Oxford Water. The walk construction work can get underway. The worked tirelessly for Stowe, particularly on The research results were encouraging – leaders in their chosen field and, believe through the Marble Hall, out onto the This year Her Majesty the Queen bird nesting season is the latest obstacle Campaign matters and was an enthusiastic many of you thought that the Headmaster me, there are countless examples of this. South Front Portico, leads to one of the celebrates her 60th Anniversary. The to face us, and this doesn’t end until the Governor for just over 10 years. and his team were doing well, even greatest, most inspirational views in example she sets, her commitment to last fledglings have flown the nest. But we absolutely recognise that academic exceptionally well and delivering what you . And all the while surrounded by duty, her devotion to her subjects, her At the end of the summer, Marten van der results are important; to stimulate The next phase of the Roxburgh Hall wanted. But, as ever, there are a few things intellectual ability, thinking skills, and the legacy of one of the most inspirational steadfastness in the face of adversity is an Veen is to retire after serving 11 years, work-over will be carried out in the which we can do better. There were three learning, and to support University entry periods in our history – the 18th Century. inspiration to us all. We were honoured the last five as the Vice Chairman. Marten summer and the the Equestrian Centre key themes which emerged. and work placement. nearly five years ago to welcome Her has been a tower of strength to me, And this is the point about Stowe – all is finished and we hope many of you Majesty to Stowe to open Queen’s House providing advice and wise counsel. In For decades there has been a popular In recent years, and the Headmaster will around there are inspirational views and have had or will have a chance today to and today we salute and thank her for her particular he did some fantastic work market perception that Stowe is not tell you more, our results have shown a reminders of people who in the past go and see it. 60 years’ service and the special interest negotiating the asset exchange agreement an academic school, rather that it is marked improvement, and more and inspired successive, future generations. she, and other members of her family Let me take a moment to say some with The National Trust and something of a country club. This is more Stoics are gaining entrance to their Political giants, military men, courtiers have shown in Stowe. thank yous. Preservation Trust. I will be very sad to see far from the reality. chosen university around the world. and aristocracy, gardeners, architects,

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monarchs, historians, artists, poets, as housemaster of Temple and Sue scepticism – but here are some statistics and a monument to the architectural three year scheme to upgrade Drama playwrights; all are represented Harmon succeeding Jenny Nelson as that can be trusted: in 2011 we celebrated brilliance of Vanbrugh, Kent, Soane facilities and this summer the foyer, somewhere at Stowe. housemistress of Stanhope. This year some of our best ever exam results: and Adam. seating and stage will be transformed into we’re maintaining the symmetry with half the GCSE grades were A* or A and a first-class performance space. We look But that just isn’t enough. Stowe is a Work on the interiors continues apace another two Housemasters gaining thirty-three of our leavers achieved 3 forward to celebrating the 50th school and our most important task is to and the Egyptian Hall re-opened in promotion: Barney Durrant leaves Stowe A grades or better at A Level. Competition anniversary of that defining moment in interact with each child, to inspire each September after twelve weeks of to take up his appointment as Head of for university places remains as tough as pop history, 4 April 1963, the day that a child to find their talent, to draw out their restoration. Last year I was able to say that Pastoral Care at Harrow International ever and we were delighted that more little known band called The Beatles came ability, to achieve of their best. I am the only Headmaster to be consulted Hong Kong after 14 years of distinguished to Stowe. I wonder what happened to than 60% of Stoics were accepted by the on how much gold leaf should adorn the Yes, inspiration comes from the service as Head of Geography and then them after Stowe? prestigious and highly selective Russell Library ceiling, this year I can confidently environment around us, but it mainly a supremely successful Housemaster and 1994 Group Universities which claim to be the only headmaster asked for The unlovely Science Building, which the comes from people with whom we come of Chandos. include Cambridge, Bristol, Durham, his views on sphinxes and sarcophagi (try Prince of Wales might describe as a into contact or, like Her Majesty, observe Exeter, the top London colleges and, I Matt Way, Senior Housemaster and saying that after a couple of glasses of hideous carbuncle on the face of a much from afar. almost forgot, Oxford (if it can be counted Housemaster of Cobham since 2006, champagne). The latest renovation loved friend, is also a candidate for an as a prestigious university). So, at Stowe we must all at all times be leaves to take up his appointment as Head project is Vincenzo Valdre’s magnificent architectural Gok Wan make-over: the inspirational – whether in the classroom, Teacher of St Petroc’s School in Cornwall. Music Room and when it is completed in The Headmaster’s Speech Jim Callaghan used to talk about refurbishment of the Physics Department in the Music School, in the Art School, on Barney and Matt are schoolmasters of the “exploring the secret garden of the the autumn we will have a splendid will be completed this summer and there the Stage or on the Sports Field – and Chairman and Governors, Lords, Ladies old-fashioned variety: both are curriculum” and Stoics have been cutting enfilade of rooms through which Stoics are exciting plans to add a Sixth Form inculcate every Stoic with the desire and and Gentlemen. outstanding teachers who embrace all swathes through the undergrowth of will be able to promenade in grand style Study area and to improve the external confidence to try things out, to explore aspects of life outside the classroom. Matt from the Library, through the Music appearance of the Science Building. A very warm welcome to Speech Day on modules, coursework and controlled their potential, to strive to achieve more, was an officer in the Duke of Edinburgh’s assessments to maximise their GCSE and Room, into the Marble Hall and into the The Vanbrugh classrooms have been to decide how they want to make their this auspicious day when we reflect on Royal Regiment and a talented National A Level grades this summer. Many of their State Dining Rooms for lunch and dinner completely modernised for the mark in their lives, to learn from the past the achievements of the School over the Leagues and Welsh U21 Hockey player, papers are already maturing nicely on the (no soup jokes this year). Geography Department and the Staff and create the future, their future. past year and celebrate the 60th while Barney was a County and Divisional Common Room is no longer marooned anniversary of Her Majesty’s accession desks of examiners and we are confident It has also been an exceptionally busy year Rugby player, a full Cambridge Blue in that this year’s vintage will be every bit as on the eastern extremity of Plug Street, Together your Governors and Headmaster to the throne. Only one monarch, Queen for the Operations Department: Grafton Athletics and has become a latter-day Iron good as the crop of 2011. All twenty-one a five minute walk from the academic are determined to make sure that in every Victoria, in more than a thousand years and Bruce were refurbished last summer aspect Stowe will be the source of Man. Matt presided over Service@Stowe, Stoics in Mr Blewitt’s GCSE Maths set area, and has moved to the more suitable of English history, has reigned for longer as part of the School’s rolling programme inspiration you expect it to be, and that while Barney’s expertise as a rugby coach secured an A* grade, a new Stowe record, location of the old Sixth Form Centre than Elizabeth II. Our sovereign has of improving boarding accommodation; Stoics will leave the School with a real has brought us to the brink of success in and the Biomedical Society is proud that which was made redundant by the newly enjoyed, or perhaps I should say endured, work is about to begin on Nugent which sense of purpose and of their value to two Daily Mail Cup semi-finals. Their all four medical candidates applying for appointed and much appreciated the company of 12 prime ministers, will accept 13 year old girls from the world. pastoral care has been exemplary and I Medicine – Ellice Caldwell-Dunn, Harriet StoweBucks. The Equestrian Centre at 12 American presidents and six popes. September and become a vertical instead know that Matt and Kate, and Barney and Eatwell, Franklin Johnson and Aysha Home Farm has been completed and Two weeks ago at a dinner to celebrate Throughout her long reign she has of a horizontal boarding house (somehow Charlie will be sorely missed by pupils, Falamarzi – secured university offers for looks splendid as I’m sure everyone who 20 years of the American Friends of Stowe, exemplified dedication to duty and that never sounds politically correct). The parents and colleagues. 2012, while Emma Saric succeeded in visited this morning will agree. My thanks the Headmaster challenged me to set his service, dignity and authority. It is in challenge is to compete with the modern winning a place at the highly competitive facilities of the other girls’ houses, but not to Charlie Clover for putting Oeste next challenge. her honour that we dedicate today’s We say farewell to Chrissy Lawrance- Royal Veterinary College. to lose any of the charm of the present through his paces this morning while Speech Day. Thorne, a legendary Modern Languages Headmaster, I think I just have. Nugent which is part of the original 18th demonstrating some great riding skills. teacher and fount of knowledge on all For the first time in more than a decade Asking the chairman what he thought this centry Mansion. The Roxburgh Hall’s All that remains is for us to build the In August the Headmaster will have been things Eurovision (including the little the Mansion is free of scaffolding and the year’s speech should be about – he leaking asbestos roof has been replaced cross-country course, carefully designed with us for 9 years and through that known fact that Engelbert Humperdinck “largest and most completely realised paused, thought for a minute – and with shiny Kalzip as the first stage of a by Captain Mark Phillips, and we will have period has successfully overseen so very is a former Stowe parent). Ann Lake, neo-classical building in the world” has replied about two and half minutes – much change. As he starts his tenth year, Matron of Bruce, retires after 17 years of reclaimed its position as the grandest coincidentally the exact length of the we look forward to the next decade and if unstinting service during which she has of all Stowe’s temples. Post-modernists Gettysburg Address. My favourite example we continue as we have been this last supported three Housemasters and might argue that concepts like truth, of pithy rhetoric in recent times was decade we will be in good shape indeed dedicated herself to looking after the beauty and goodness are things of the written on a banner at the funeral as we approach our Centenary in 2023. welfare of the boys in Bruce. Huw Jones, past, anachronistic relics from the Age procession of Northern Ireland’s greatest Assistant Director of Music since 2007 and We are very fortunate at Stowe to have a of the Enlightenment, irrelevant in a footballer: “Maradona good, Pele better, then acting Director of Music after only a Headmaster who embraces the ethos and relativist age where Tracy Emin is George Best”. The best example of royal few weeks, is a brilliant organist, master- tradition of Stowe so comfortably, and considered to be as important as wit that I can think of is when a mobile in-charge of the Chamber Choir and who leads us in such an exceptional way. Michelangelo (I like to think that our CCF phone went off while Her Majesty was champion of a diverse range of music It’s time for him to tell you a little more and DofE tents are superior to Tracy’s – graciously receiving a line of dignitaries: from Delius to Death Metal: Huw leaves about the detail of the last year in the life not as many people have slept in them – “you had better answer it”, she said, “it us to take up his new post of Director of of Stowe. and as for that unmade bed – well, what might be someone important”. Music at Merchant Taylors’ School. would Ann Lake say?). At Stowe it is still The School is bustling with life: the roll Headmasters love to name-drop, as possible to get a glimpse of transcendent stands at an all-time record of 760 Stoics The Queen said to me only last week, beauty and we are extremely grateful to and along with 215 freshly enrolled pupils, and they cannot resist boasting about the the Stowe House Preservation Trust for we also welcomed ten new members of achievements of their schools. We teach master-minding this immensely complex the teaching staff, with Anthony Stoics not to take anything at face value restoration project to secure this Macpherson taking over from Tony Lewis and to treat statistics with cautious magnificent house as a seat of learning Joshua Gentry, Liam Forster and Will McGovern

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one of the best school riding facilities in more interesting with a new ecology deadening hand of League Tables. he reached for his Browning (and he Unplugged concert in the Roxburgh Hall the country. Next up is the exciting new of learning that respects multiple and Teaching a child is like pouring wine into didn’t mean the poet Robert Browning). and again last night at the concert for Music School, designed by Nick Cox to be different intelligences. a bottle with a thin neck. It is not a This year’s cultural offerings have been Ataxia, the charity we have chosen to a cross between Wagner’s Valhalla and struggle of nature versus nurture, but extraordinarily diverse: ‘Our Country’s support this year. Other highlights this The most creative individuals are often Bob Dylan’s rural retreat in Woodstock. nature via nurture. All children are born Good’, this year’s Senior Congreve, term include a superbly accomplished the most difficult to teach as some of the I can’t wait for the creative fusion – Like artists and have an extraordinary capacity transported audiences back to the early concert of Sixth Form Compositions in Stoics here will testify. Einstein frequently A Rolling Stone meets Götterdammerung for innovation – the challenge, as Picasso days of the Australian convict colony and the Queen’s Temple, last Sunday’s clashed with his teachers and argued that revealed the hardship endured by and the Valkyries (which sounds like the spirit of learning and creative thought told us, is how to remain an artist when Concert in Aid of the British Red Cross prisoners and guards as they struggled to Germany’s entry to Eurovision). My was crushed by rote learning; Charles you grow up. It reminds me of the story which featured Grieg’s Holberg Suite and survive. The play is a hymn to the power sincere thanks to everyone here who has Darwin’s teacher at Shrewsbury told him of the little girl in an art class who was a sublime rendition of Handel’s opera, of the human spirit over adversity and the contributed so generously to these that he wouldn’t amount to much as he asked by her teacher what she was Alcina, a wonderful concerto concert in ability of theatre to take us out of the here projects through the Campaign for Stowe. spent too much time playing with insects; drawing. She answered that she was Stowe Chapel which featured outstanding drawing the face of God. “But nobody and now, transcending national and social performances by Rex Roxburgh, Camilla Schools tend to come in two varieties Churchill’s terrible reports from Harrow knows what God looks like” said the boundaries, while revealing truths about Harvey-Scholes, Harriet Eatwell, William – free range or battery farmed. In battery are legendary and I doubt that the teacher… ”Well” said the little girl, “they the human condition. The Fifth Form play, Motion, Francesca Stevens, Michael schools there is usually a hierarchy which Stratford-on-Avon Emma Curley will in a minute”. ‘Too Much Punch For Judy’, presented us Kitchen and Liam Forster. This morning’s has the so-called academic disciplines at teachers had an easy time teaching with the tragic consequences of drink- programme of music and the exhibitions the apex and the creative subjects and English to Shakespeare. A paper sent to The best teachers teach through osmosis, driving and elicited outstanding organised by the Art and Design sport at the bottom. Ken Robinson me by a parent explains that the reward they encourage pupils to question and to Schools’ Arena Polo Champions. We are performances from the fourteen members Technology Departments demonstrate reminds us that factory schools educate centres of the adolescent brain are much think for themselves, they foster getting used to clean sweeps in block of the cast. Grafton and Queen’s delivered that we really are blessed with a dazzling from the neck up, treating bodies as little more active than those of children or intellectual curiosity and excitement so fixtures in all sports and Alan Hughes has finely nuanced, well acted and skilfully array of creative talent. more than transporters for heads. I can adults. Think about the intensity of first had to drop St Edward’s after every rugby that young people can discover for directed productions of ‘The Musicians’ vouch for this as in a previous incarnation love, the never to be recaptured glory of team secured wins with Teddies managing themselves the hidden connections and ‘Bazaar and Rummage’. Nugent ‘As Long as He Needs Me’ from ‘Oliver!’ I used to organise dances for St Paul’s scoring the winning run in the house between disparate subjects; they embrace presented ‘Darlings You Were Wonderful’, (Lionel Bart) only 90 points to Stowe’s 500. We’re trying Girls’ and Boys’ schools: two hours of match final and how doing something ambiguity, intellectual risk-taking, allowing hard not to sound triumphalist and to a slick, entertaining comedy which Sung by Emma Curley kinetically challenged writhing with really idiotic seems so seductively pupils to learn from experience, achieving hold on to the ideal that it’s the taking attractive at the time. Teenagers develop attracted good audiences while Bruce occasional collisions, a bit like Brownian success through trial and error. Some It has been another superb year for Stowe part and not the winning that matters… an accelerator a long time before they staged ‘Aftermath’, set in a post- motion in Physics or being inside a human 2,000 years ago Confucius wrote these sport. Jordan Onojaife plays for the but our teams seem to prefer winning to can steer and brake. No Department of apocalyptic future where survivors try pinball machine. Not very edifying – but words: “tell me I forget, show me I England U17 Rugby side, Claudia Button coming second. It just feels better. Education initiative, no new building or to rebuild their shattered lives. The play still probably better than my dancing remember, let me do and I understand”. represents England Lacrosse, Ben Duckett facilities, will have any effect unless we was brilliantly directed and showed that The Junior Colts reached the semi-finals which has been compared to a giraffe on How else did the greatest and most toured India with the England U18s and is can find a way to channel and harness house plays can tackle serious subjects. of the Daily Mail Cup competition – an roller-skates. It’s hard to believe, isn’t it, influential scientist who ever lived, listed in Wisden as the leading run scorer all this seething energy and guide pupils This week Junior Congreve presented exceptional achievement for a co- that after 7 million years of evolution, Isaac Newton, come to challenge the in Schools’ cricket with 1,320 runs and a to delay gratification and reach mature Macbeth as part of Stowe’s contribution educational school of our size and the 350,000 generations, taking us from the orthodoxies of his age, producing a average of 66, while James Rudkin decisions. to the London Olympiad. The cast of over Seniors reached the semi-finals of the Stone Age to the Hubble telescope and concept of the universe based on represented Britain at the Munich Junior 30 Third and Fourth Form Stoics staged national seven-a-side tournament at the sequencing of the human genome, We will not solve the problems in schools rationally understandable laws, thereby International Regatta in May and is a mesmerising, expressive production, Rossyln Park. The Yearlings A team went that the high water mark of achievement by using the same thinking that created earning his place in Stowe’s Temple of training for the World Championships in steeped in blood and dark foreboding undefeated for the third year in in education is an A* at GCSE. Here at these problems in the first place – the British Worthies with the memorable Australia in January 2013. James is joined as we followed the descent of the succession posting colossal scores against Stowe I hope we’re doing something tyranny of teaching to the test and the inscription, “Whom the God of Nature by Max Marston who has also been invited hell-hound Macbeth and his fiend-like competitor schools like Oundle and made to comprehend his works”. Truth, to train with the GB rowing team. Ben Queen into hell and damnation. And Uppingham. Next year’s 1st XV and Junior like beauty, does exist in absolute terms Robinson won the Faldo Series UK now, to lighten the tone, something Colts are already planning their campaigns – even in the virtual reality jungle of Championship and came second in the completely different… to reach the Daily Mail finals at cyberspace where Stowe’s Wikipedia entry U16 Faldo Series World Final. Harry Twickenham and we wish them luck on can change with the click of a mouse ‘Fugue for Tinhorns’ from ‘Guys and Bannister has enjoyed a string of wins on their tour of Argentina this summer. Not (well it would if our account hadn’t been Dolls’ (Frank Loesser) his horse, Borero, and lifted the to be out-performed by the boys, Stowe frozen by Wikipedia after some fanciful prestigious Grimthorpe Gold Cup trophy Performed by Will McGovern, Liam girls have performed equally well with the and daring re-naming of the boarding earlier this term. He currently heads the Forster and Joshua Gentry U14 Girls’ hockey team winning the houses). Truth can be found through table of the Men’s Novice Riding The weekly Wednesday afternoon concert County Championships direct engagement and complete Championships and, if you’re not sure recitals in the Music Room, now relocated and the U16 Girls’ hockey team reaching immersion in science, history, what to do going into a fence, Harry’s to Queen’s Temple, provide a showcase the national semi-finals after beating mathematics, languages and a life-long advice is to “just sit still – chances are the for an impressive range of musical talents Wellington College 4-2 to become regional pursuit of knowledge. Perhaps a twenty- horse will sort itself out”. We’ll all bear while the Festival of Music and Mozart champions. The 1st XII Lacrosse team first century Enlightenment might match that in mind, Harry! Trio Competition on 4 March featured 203 reached the finals of the Midlands Schools the achievements of the eighteenth performances by Stoics and culminated in Stowe topped the National Schools’ Tournament for the second successive century Enlightenment that is so a memorable concert performed by the Cricket last season and, weather year and returned from the Schools’ celebrated at Stowe. winners in each category. The sublime permitting, we hope to achieve similar National Competition with a trophy for If you say that you’re above culture, you gifts of our Chapel Choir were success this year. We beat Cheltenham to coming top of the 1st Division. Yesterday, might as well say that you’re above demonstrated at Evensong in Southwark win the Senior Inter-schools’ Polo trophy it was the turn of our athletes and the humanity. Hermann Goering once said Cathedral in February and our aspiring and last term our novice team beat heroic feats of athleticism at the David Jubilee Picnic that when he heard the word culture, rock stars strutted their stuff at the Wellington to become National Senior Donaldson track have whetted our

8 The Stoic The Stoic 9 Academic Academic

appetites for the Olympics. Amid all this and cultures that were once thought of as Chaplin raised more than £35,000 for exile in England. During his talk, there means he will be a massive loss to the talk of county, regional and national foreign and alien. Carefree Northants and the Anna Freud was one thing that particularly stood out School when he leaves at the end of success, there is one sport where Stowe Centre by cycling from Land’s End to to me, and it’s something all of us at Stowe this year. This term Stoics have heard lectures from should think about more deeply, and not can claim global supremacy – you’ve London; Sasha Milne has tirelessly To all the Prefects, I hope you’ve had as a wide range of speakers: the take so much for granted. Henry told us guessed it – Beagling. I would like to organised events to raise funds for much fun as I have, and thank you for your photographer and journalist, Paul Conroy, how unbelievably privileged we are to thank all the coaches for their hard work help and support. And Ellie, I know I’m recently returned from the battleground research into Ataxia and urges you to buy attend a school like this one. Some of and constant enthusiasm and Stoics in not the easiest person to keep on task, so of Homs in Syria; Henry Olonga, the tickets for the Derby sweepstake, as not us here forget to appreciate our I’m grateful for your friendship, patience, teams at any level for their achievements only do you have a chance of winning five surroundings, and fail to recognise Zimbabwean cricketer, spoke to us about and supportiveness during this last year. in making this such a memorable year for sport and politics in his beleaguered prizes of £100 each and two cases of how lucky we are to have so many sport at Stowe. opportunities available to us. As for the Headmaster, it is just incredible country; John Burns, an Old Stoic, excellent champagne, but you will also be Head Boy, Henry Rudd with Ed Smith how he has managed to cope so politely The great metaphysical poet John Donne London bureau chief for The New York helping to fund research into the causes Stowe is a comfortable place which with all my talk of sport. I know he would Times and winner of two Pulitzer Prizes, of this debilitating neurological condition. provides this blanket of security and wrote that “No man is an island entire of Head Boy’s Speech have preferred much more cereal, er, Jess Noakes collected books for the day although the School challenges us, that itself, every man is a piece of the celebrated the Anglo-American special celebra, er, brainy conversations with his Good afternoon, Ed, Governors, sense of security fosters a certain sense continent, a part of the main”. We have relationship at the annual dinner for the care centre in South Africa that she visited Head of School – but thank you, Headmaster, Ladies and Gentlemen. of confidence within us which is great, never been interested in producing American Friends of Stowe. Stoics on The Warriors’ trip and presented them Headmaster, for your engagement with, until the fine line between confidence themselves also spread the message of with a cheque for £1,500; a group of Do you know why they asked the and encouragement to me. stereotypes: slick, inauthentic, out of and arrogance is crossed. If I have any international community: in Chapel last Stoics led by Mr Roberts has raised nearly scarecrow to speak at Stowe? touch, public school snobs who don’t kind of message today, it is for upcoming On behalf of my year, to everyone who has Sunday we celebrated Pentecost in Zulu, know the price of milk or how they might £3,000 for the Durrell Trust in Jersey; Mr Because he was outstanding in his field... Stoics to know that – confidence is cool; been so helpful, enabling us to enjoy and be perceived by the world beyond the Afrikaan, Xhosa, Armenian, Hindi, Ing raised over £5,000 for Cancer arrogance is not. make the most of these last five years... I wonder if anyone has ever dared to ha-ha. We want independent thinkers with Bulgarian and Spanish; I accompanied Research by completing the Henley Iron a heartfelt thank you! call you a scarecrow, Ed? For all the right Soon after that first care-free night, I was global mindsets who can contribute Najib Afghan (Temple, Lower Sixth) to Man competition; Mr Arnold organised reasons, obviously! Sport, life, luck – hit by home-sickness. It’s alright to talk Now on to the awards, firstly, the Richard Asia House in London where he talked constructively to the great conversations Stowe’s Movember which raised £7,000 your speech and your books provide about it now, but it wasn’t much fun at the Branson Award is given to the most about his life in Helmand Province before of mankind. Each year there are more for research into prostate and testicular great themes for all of us at this school, time. I think we probably all experienced it entrepreneurial Stoic, with entries judged overseas trips and increased opportunities coming to Stowe. Intrepid Stoics who cancer and then persuaded the whole and you are clearly outstanding on the one way or another, and I guess it was just on their risk, originality and financial for Stoics to take advantage of went on the Warriors’ trip to South Africa school to take part in a fun run for Sports field – and off it. Thank you very much a natural part of the process. Which leads reward. They must have shown gave an illustrated talk to encourage partnerships with other schools. We have Relief Day. Last Sunday, Freddie Rowan- indeed for being with us today, and for me to a few important thank yous. entrepreneurial flair and they need to others to enrol on this exciting kindly presenting prizes on this special have run their business for the last exchange programmes with The Doon Hamilton, Oscar Cole, Arthur Hobhouse To my Matron, Clare Hill-Hall, who has programme of skydiving, trekking, sliding Jubilee Weekend. consecutive six months or more, and School in India, the Dominican Convent and Ajay Daswani ran 10 km and raised been hugely supportive ever since the first down steep canyons, helping wildlife finally they have to have pursued their School in Johannesburg and next term In September, nearly five years ago, day I met her. She has kept me on track £1,600 for Amber, a charity which helps to financial commitment beyond Stowe. we’ll welcome a pupil on exchange from conservation projects and, most I arrived at Stowe from my home in Kenya. when things have got tough, and never rehabilitate young people with drugs and This award is highly competitive, largely importantly, connecting with the children On my first night at the School, I slept in a hesitates to remind me about the King’s College Auckland. This term’s alcohol dependencies. It is gratifying that due to the prize that is on offer – two at the Day Care Centre Orphanage. dormitory with 11 other boys – with the ridiculously untidy state of my room! crowning celebration of global many Stoics are still finding ways to serve weeks’ work experience with any of The window wide open. My feeling was one of Thank you. interconnectivity was when 56 members You’ve heard me talk about beauty and Virgin Business Groups, along with two the common good, reframing what it relief – not, as you might think, because of of the Dominican Convent School Choir truth and I’ll finish with goodness. Talents Those of us in Chandos reckon we’ve return flights to any Virgin destination. means to be a global citizen. the flow of fresh air, but because I was came to stay with us for a few days in May been pretty lucky with our Housemaster are lent for the service of others and I comfortable that, for the first time in my The award this year goes to Ben Wackett. Before I hand over to Ed Smith, our Guest and our Matron, and one of the good and then gave a rousing concert of African have been hugely impressed by the many life, I was going to sleep without worrying Ben has been selling Charity Bracelets, of Honour, let’s have one more song – things I have discovered over the years, folk music and spirituals in Chapel. The good causes supported by Stoics and staff that bad people were about to bash our and he has raised £8,000 from his sales is that everyone in the School feels lucky world is becoming a smaller place and over the year. Pippa Farr took part in the Alice Jackman singing ‘Taylor The Latte ‘askari’ – our security guard – on the head, and he gives 30% of his profits away to to have their particular Housemaster these trips, exchanges and partnerships Great North Run and raised £1,800 to help Boy’ (Zina Goldrich and Marcy Heisler). climb in through the window and steal our charity. His main highlight has been and Matron. belongings. Stowe was later to teach me securing deals with charities such as the enhance our understanding of peoples children suffering from leukaemia; Jack I have known our Guest of Honour, about poisonings, but at least for a while I speak with feeling, because I’m sorry Children’s Trust, and Epilepsy UK – he Ed Smith, since he was a 13 year old I felt safe – I, unlike the Headmaster, did to say that Mrs Hamblett-Jahn of Queen’s even got James Cracknell to wear a school boy at Tonbridge where I was a keep that one up my sleeve! demonstrated the typical level of personalised bracelet when he ran the Housemaster and Head of History. Usually outstanding support that a Housemaster London Marathon in April. I am lucky to have been part of two very when people talk about Renaissance men, or Mistress gives to her charges – at my different communities. Here, mostly Very well done Ben, please come up to they are describing someone who has expense. In the Senior House debating well-off and privileged; there, quite the collect your prize. final Mrs Hamblett-Jahn rallied her troops several talents, but has not particularly opposite. Here, I wear shoes and socks and encouraged her girls to direct all Now, as I come to the end of my final excelled at anything. Ed is the exception. and jacket and tie, and am conscious of points of information and questions speech, I have one more presentation to He shows Renaissance curiosità, an health and safety rules; there, I don’t wear towards the weakest link, Henry Rudd. make, and that is to hand over the reins much at all, and sometimes wish people insatiably curious approach to life and Eight questions later and I was mercilessly to next years Head Boy and Head Girl. I am would actually make some rules. an unrelenting quest for continuous bullied into submission, as Chandos sorry to say that the Chandos sequence of learning; he also embodied the Another African, Henry Olonga, the was swept to one side, and the Queen’s Head Boys has been broken. But I am Renaissance ideal of corporalità, the Zimbabwean Cricketer with a Kenyan girls emerged with more silverware for extremely happy to announce that next cultivation of grace, ambidexterity, fitness father, recently reminded us to be grateful their House. year’s Head Boy is a great choice who I’m for our good fortune. He came to School sure will do an absolutely fantastic job. So and poise as anyone who has seen him My own Housemaster, Mr Durrant, to sing, and to tell us about his black with sincere congratulations, I invite Hugo batting and fielding will tell you. If a deserves special thanks from me. I’m armband protest alongside Andy Flower Brooks of Grenville House to come and teacher is judged by his results, then I am the third consecutive Head Boy from at the 2003 Cricket World Cup, which collect the Head Boy tie. Chandos, which is absolutely not a very happy to hold up Ed as exhibit A. brought him into conflict with Robert coincidence. The way he has encouraged, I hope you have a lovely day, and enjoy the Mugabe’s government, and caused his Dr Anthony Wallersteiner supported and nurtured so many of us, rest of the Jubilee weekend – thank you.

10 The Stoic The Stoic 11 Valete Valete

finest hour being when he coached the During the last four years nearly every my groups; building trust, confidence and side that reached the Daily Mail semi-finals formal dinner at Stowe has had the belief watching the Stoics in my care make in 2010. The athletes at Stowe will also Chamber Choir sing at it, often Huw’s own progress, seeing my sets blossom – it’s a miss Barney’s support as he spent many compositions. His ‘Royal Grace’, written for great feeling when you sense their progress” hours putting the middle distance groups Her Majesty the Queen when she visited to as the most rewarding experience in her 12 through their paces with brutal sessions open Queen’s House, as well as his more years at Stowe and it is this that sets Chrissy which, of course, he always joined in with. recently written ‘Grace D’amour’ always apart as a teacher. She is equally as gave the right start to all these occasions. exceptional with the lower ability as she is Barney Durrant Barney is moving with his wife Charlie Huw Jones with the top sets, turning the latter into real Matthew Way and three young children, William, Freddie His students and his colleagues will miss Hispanists and her warmth, kindness and and Alexa to take up the post of Pastoral him terribly, but as he goes on to become belief have turned many bottom sets of We say farewell to Barney, who Huw Jones has had the most Matthew and Kate Way arrived at and Boarding Director in the new the Director of Music at Merchant Taylors’ French haters into positive groups rewarded leaves Stowe having taught here extraordinary career of any Stowe in September 2006 along Harrow School in Hong Kong. We wish and also gets married to Libby later this by their learning experience with Mrs with James, Olivia (and Rufus the for 15 years. Barney has been the Durrants the very best of luck with Music teacher I have come across. summer, we wish him and his new wife Lawrance-Thorne. Chrissy has been an dog) to run Cobham House, with an outstanding teacher and the move and would like to express a Within a year and three months of every luck and we all know they have a inspirational and dynamic teacher of MFL Schoolmaster. final thank you for his huge contribution being a City Chartered Accountant golden future ahead of them. and will be missed by many. We wish Matthew also teaching History to Stowe. an epiphany took place and he Mr Simon Dearsley Chrissy every happiness and good health in and Politics. It soon became very Barney’s enthusiasm for geography, sports Mr Craig Sutton returned to Music, having read the future. clear to all that in Matthew and and the boarding environment were Music at Robinson College Chrissy Lawrance-Thorne Mrs Tracy Jones Kate the School had found an always very evident and his skill in excellent team to run Cobham. communicating these to the pupils in his Pauline Huet Cambridge, where he was the charge meant that many Stoics have been Organ Scholar, he became the Chrissy joined Stowe 12 years ago François Massot Matthew has run Cobham with a deft hand influenced in a very positive way over the Very rarely do we get Assistants acting Director of Music at in September 2000, appointed and has inspired a generation of Cobhamites years. Barney has taught in the vibrant and who can teach literature in as Stowe School. as a part-time languages teacher. For the first time in 18 years, the to look beyond themselves as well as aiming ever popular Geography Department natural and insightful a way She is without doubt best known French Department has had the for excellence in all that they do. The School throughout his time, having had a as Pauline has been able to do Huw spent a year at Haileybury as a for her passion for languages, pleasure of welcoming a male also found an excellent, energetic and successful three year spell as Head of this year. Musician-in-Residence, and came to Stowe particularly Spanish, and her Assistant. But that is just one of enthusiastic teacher in Matthew. Whether it Department. His lessons were imaginative as the Assistant Director of Music and was in the classroom grappling with Stoic excellent classroom teaching but François’ many claims to fame. and meticulously organised and I am sure Organist of Stowe Chapel in September historians and potential politicians, or on Pauline’s intellectual curiosity and thirst she has also contributed to Stowe he has imbued a love of the subject in 2007. In that year it was clear that Music the hockey or cricket pitches or helping to for knowledge have been an inspiration A dedicated lover of the outdoors, a fanatic many of his pupils. In 2005 he was flourished under his leadership. He was in a number of other areas. rejuvenate Service@Stowe, Matthew gave for us all and a true asset to the French recycler, François has embraced everything appointed Housemaster of Chandos. the Music Director for Lionel Weston’s his all and was widely respected by both staff Department. Being professional beyond Stowe has to offer, from taking on the The boys who play their House matches production of ‘Oliver’, and brought in Chrissy became a full time member of staff and students. More recently, he was an ideal her years, Pauline has made a fantastic job recycling as part of the Service@Stowe to in pink and brown jerseys were soon to excellent exam results in the GCSE, AS and in 2003 and with that a popular Fourth Form candidate to take on the role of Senior of steering the French Upper Sixth travelling to Paris with the Music trip. But become a force to be reckoned with as A2 years. When I arrived at Stowe in tutor in Cobham. She also became i/c Housemaster/Head of Boarding, a role through the art of debating and talking on first and foremost, he has been a Barney’s competitive nature rubbed off September 2008 I found a department that Community Service which she passionately which he carried out with integrity and a variety of often challenging subjects. tremendous asset to the French Department on the Chandosians, meaning they always was willing, eager and well set up. During and successful ran for five years and her intelligence, doing much behind the scenes Like François, she also offered invaluable by preparing the French Lower Sixth for gave their best when representing their the four years I have been Huw’s ‘boss’, he vibrancy and warmth made the Old Peoples’ to ensure that Stowe’s boarding provision, help with a number of Lower School sets, their oral exam, as well as offering in-class House. Barney’s clear rules and guidance has always been more of a colleague and a Christmas Party during these years especially its Weekend Activity Programme, helping them make sense of the French support to a number of Lower School sets. meant Chandosians always knew exactly tall tower of strength to me. I felt Huw something very special. Chrissy has also is among the best in the country. Even this language. But Pauline’s talent extends well He will be remembered by Stoics and staff where they stood and what was expected gave the department height, and I gave the been a dedicated NASWUT rep since 2004 as job however was not enough to keep beyond the classroom; when asked in alike for his huge general knowledge and of them. Barney’s consistent care, support department breadth. well as secretary of SC3. Chrissy took over Matthew busy so in 2011 along came little and efforts will be highly valued by the December whether she wanted to do a the role as i/c Spanish in 2003 successfully perpetual good humour. Preparing lessons Rosie Way who completed the team! many boys who were lucky enough to night’s duty in Queen’s, she accepted His most outstanding work, aside from his running numerous Study Tours to Madrid and delivering them seemed effortless to Alongside all of this Matthew was also have him as their Housemaster. willingly, thus offering Jane and her team impeccable teaching in the classroom, has and certainly contributed significantly to the him, despite having received no teaching studying for a Masters in Educational some welcome relief. We are hugely been on the organ and with the Chamber dramatic rise in the popularity and success training and therefore having to learn on the Leadership which will stand him in very Barney made a huge contribution to the grateful to her for all her hard work and Choir. We have taken the Chamber Choir of Spanish in the last 10 years. job. He took to the English public school life good stead as he takes up the sporting scene at Stowe. His major role dedication, as well as for accepting to stay to New York twice, and had the most like a duck to water, making the most of Headmastership of St Petroc’s School, Bude. was as the1st XV ‘forwards coach’ an extra month and conduct around 120 astonishingly exciting tour to Los Angeles. Chrissy is an outstanding classroom teacher every opportunity and hopefully gaining I am sure that under Matthew’s care, this alongside the Head of Rugby, Alan Hughes. Third Form orals. She has set the bar very Whether a conductor or an accompanist who has genuinely cared for the Stoics she valuable experience at the same time. He Prep School will go from strength to His experience and understanding of what high for any Assistant following in her Huw has always displayed the most has taught in the Modern Languages will be sorely missed by all of us and we wish strength and we will miss the whole family makes a successful schoolboy side helped footstep. Au revoir and all the best! diligent of approaches, and had produced Department. On numerous occasions she him all the best for the future. and all that they brought to Stowe. many teams to have great seasons, with his Mrs Alice Tearle magical and unforgettable performances. has highlighted “forging relationships with Mrs Alice Tearle Mr Pete Last

12 The Stoic The Stoic 13 Gallery

Obituary

Debbie Borthwick 1970-2012

Debbie trained at the Birmingham the Big Band, when John Green departed accompaniments for Remembrance Day Conservatoire and first came to Stowe in Stowe. Under Debbie’s direction the Big and Carol Services and her unfailing good 1995 as a trumpet teacher. Within a year of Band became the regular Jazz Group at humour as she conducted wind and brass her arrival, the number of pupils learning Lord Spencer’s Literary Festival. concerts in the Roxburgh Hall, Chapel and brass instruments tripled and she was Many of us have enjoyed the tremendous the Queen’s Temple. As well as teaching widely recognised as a tremendous asset to conviviality of Dinner and Jazz evenings as music, Debbie taught EAL lessons and showed a compassionate understanding for the Music Department. She was promoted well as Summer Jazz on the South Front those mastering English as a second to Head of Brass and Percussion and latterly and at the Queen’s Temple. Head of Brass, Woodwind and Percussion. language. She will be much missed as a Debbie nurtured and developed a number Debbie was an inspiring teacher, much Chatham House Tutor, a role that she took of brass ensembles within the School, admired and respected by her colleagues up in 2007. Our deepest sympathies go to re-established the Wind Band and played and pupils alike. I very much appreciated her parents, Arthur and Helen, her an important part in making music an her organisation of Prep School husband Murray and her son Jack. integral part of school life, and took on Instrumental Days, her superb brass Dr Anthony Wallersteiner

Wilhemina McFadden, Upper Sixth

14 The Stoic The Stoic 15 Creative Academic Writing

The academic year 2011-2012 has seen shabby exterior of the whole Science much celebration, most recently with Building. Modern Languages is to gain its HM The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. much-longed for Languages Laboratory Academic providing access to the most up-to-date The year started, however, with the most recent improvement in exam results: our technology and research will begin for an best ever GCSE grades with 48.4% (A*-A); architect’s brief for a new Design Centre, 95% (A*-C) and nearly 98% pass rate. once the Music School is complete. Work The Lower Sixth Form AS exams scored continues in the Roxburgh Theatre and, 95.5% (A-E) and just under 54% (AB). once complete next summer, the Drama Finally, A Levels hover frustratingly around their teaching and pupil learning for exam ‘vertical’ house. This will increase the Department will be based there. Drama’s 66% (A*-B) but with a pass rate of 99.4% revision and preparation. numbers of Junior girls and allow all four current rooms will be occupied by (A-E). Most pleasingly the number of A* girls’ houses to compete equally for Religious Studies which, in turn, will lose The second is an Information Literacy (IL) grades rose from 57 last year to 61 this awards and prizes. Temporarily housed their unloved classrooms, thus freeing up Policy for each and every academic year. It was thus a real pleasure, at the for one year, these Nugent girls will move the original view and space outside the department. Today, our children are Mathematics classrooms. The most exciting first Assembly of term, to award a greater into the ‘mother’ house in 2013 which swamped with information delivered news is that, finally, permission has been number of academic ties and pins to is being renovated internally, though through every form of technology, chiefly granted for work to start on the new Music those who had performed outstandingly without too much loss to the Nugent the mobile phone/iPad etc. What they do School, located opposite Lyttelton House in their public exams. This pattern of charm of some of its nooks and crannies. gradual improvement, therefore, and not possess so readily are the critical and rising up the hill to the Lee’s bastion coupled with our more focused faculties to judge and select the right Fortunately, our pupil recruitment, even by the ha-ha. It is to be hoped that the new recruitment into the Third Form, is information, the ability to open a in our ‘age of austerity’, continues to hold Music School (with a 200 seat concert hall) grounds for optimism that our academic periodical or book (hard copy or virtual) up with numerous events in Music and will open in late 2013 or early 2014. and locate information; the improved other Departments to stimulate interest in profile is, slowly, rising and we look There is no denying the spirit of optimism understanding of subject-specific Stowe and a better focus on the selection forward to good exam results for Stoics that hovers over Stowe at present. On a vocabulary or mathematical skills etc of pupils best suited to Stowe in 2012. in the summer. recent visit, a Prep School Headmaster specific to their subjects. Led by the Once here, Stoics are treated to many, expressed how stunned he was at the The Queen’s Jubilee, however, did English Department and Library staff, each more extension Groups – The XX Groups academic and physical transformation present schools with major challenges. Department has written an IL Policy which for Third, Fourth and Fifth Forms; that has occurred over the past twenty Half-term was delayed by a week, while outlines how and where they ensure their Headmaster’s Essay Society for potential the pattern of public exams, for just years and we are certainly delighted with pupils will learn and use these skills. Oxbridge and Russell Group applicants; this year mercifully, was disrupted with the quality of applicants and the Finally, for the Upper Sixth Form we shall The Quantum Society and Bio-Meds in more concentrated AS exams and others achievements of both Stoics and staff. introduce a General Studies course Science; Pitt Groups in History and so on. The Envy beginning a fortnight into the term. Next year we look forward to the School’s designed to give Stoics a range of skills The Minister of Education continues to Further physical improvements in the 90th birthday and we shall continue our and experience that will help them in introduce further changes, the most academic area are the completion of the reforming plans for intellectual and their future lives and careers. The Sonnet notable being the removal of the modular reconfigured Physics laboratories, the physical improvement to the school even Programme has, at its core, a strong system at GCSE, so from this September creation of plans to build a Sixth Form up to the Centenary in 2023. emphasis on the practical and useful. all Fourth Form pupils will now sit their Centre for scientists, some new Mr Crispin Robinson, When thoughts that you don’t need enter your mind, Options may include: how to get a job; papers only at the end of the two year laboratories and work to improve the Deputy Headmaster (Academic) basic cookery; basic vehicle maintenance; And your eyes get closed from the truth within, course. It is probable that the etiquette; wine tasting and correct dining; Government may also introduce similar All sense and reason just get left behind, First Aid; practical Business Skills etc. We restrictions on (or even removal of) the have also invited prominent speakers to But now you must not let the demon win. A Level modular system so that exam present their experiences and wisdom as Her scaly skin may slide around your feet, modules will no longer disrupt every a wider perspective on the world. term but be concentrated solely in the Her emerald eyes start eating at your soul. final Summer term. Many of us are also Such training, we believe, will help Stoics The Envy doesn’t care for rules – she’ll cheat, praying that the Government decides prepare better for their future careers in to remove the onerous and absurd Distorting your mind ‘til she’s in control. employment and in Higher Education. Controlled Assessment (e.g. 20 hours We have also seen an increase in numbers The Envy watches, driving you insane, extra in Geography). applying for North American universities as an alternative to the UK courses and Compelling you to bring your own collapse. Stowe will introduce its own important their new £9K per annum fees. This STOP PRESS!! academic developments in September. The agony she causes inhumane, increase is perhaps not unsurprising This year’s mid-August results represent our best grades at A Level (A*-B) The first is the introduction of the GCSE because the breadth of courses and and with a very welcome increase in the number of top A* grades. A week But when she’s finished, leaves to set more traps. courses in the middle of the Third Form number of US institutions offering later, we received more good news in the form of the GCSE results, our (Year 9). This early start will allow for Jealousy is little more than greed, international pupils a greater choice second best at A*-C. Combined, therefore, the A Levels and GCSE grades this greater GCSE enrichment and the and a greater variety of degrees. year are our best on record and show Stowe rising to join similar schools in Desire to have things that we just Angusdon’t Tyrrell, need. Fourth Form opportunity to deliver the specifications excellent academic achievement. On behalf of the Headmaster and Governors, over two and a half years. The removal In September we open with around 780 I congratulate the Stoics for their well-earned successes and, equally, the of exam modules will allow staff to teach pupils and, for the first time, Third Form hard-working staff who both stimulate and support the learning of their pupils. consistently and not have to interrupt pupils in Nugent which turns into a

16 The Stoic The Stoic 17 Academic Academic

for the following rounds (Toby Wightman – Top of the Year, Harry Pettifer and Alfie Stanford). Many congratulations go to those, as well as all who competed Maths and achieved either a Bronze or a Silver certificate. What started as an interesting project within the AS Further Mathematics set, thinking about the relevance of Further Maths, ended up with two girls, Rebecca The Mathematics Department has Some of the Sixth Form, in collaboration Woods and Catalina Bodrug (with input continued to flourish this year with record with the Sports Science department, went from Aliénor D’Arenberg) designing a numbers in the Lower Sixth and a high to Gresham College for a Maths and poster for the Further Mathematics number of students continuing through Sports Science lecture looking at Maths Support Programme as sponsored by to complete their full A Level. The top set within the Olympics and how bodies turn, Rolls Royce. Their poster became the in the Fifth Form has set the bar high for rotate, gyrate etc. All who got in enjoyed winning entry and they have been invited following years with a clean sweep of A* the lecture… Mr Dawson was left outside to Rolls Royce in Derby in July for the having followed the linear course on car park duty! presentation and to collect their prize. although the current Fourth Form already Many congratulations to them. The Seniors performed well in the seem well on the same path having seen annual Senior Maths Challenge with Ye All the staff and the students have worked their recent efforts. Shi (qualifying for the following Kangaroo incredibly hard this year and should all be commended for their efforts. While Outside the classroom, the Third Form round) and James Clark both earning success is never guaranteed, it is have welcomed, amongst others, the poet has been seen playing with penguins on Golds, but they were outshone by the extremely heartwarming to see how many Simon Armitage, who treated pupils to a icebergs and constructing towers in their Intermediate candidates where eight are motivated and fully committed to the humorous and often moving recital of annual puzzle day which encourages them students achieved Gold (Archie Brogden, understanding of Mathematics. poems from his recent Anthology. to focus on improving their thinking skills Kalil Ali, Rosie Dickson, Caspar Whitehead English as well as fostering their teamwork skills. and Jamie Angle) with three qualifying Mr Damian Blewitt, Head of Mathematics Stoics have also been hard at work on the creative writing front. A number of pupils have had work published in Express Yourself, an anthology of poems by 13 to 18 year old pupils in Buckinghamshire and Berkshire. Some of their work, One of the aims of the Department this Literary Society, which has once again together with contributions from other year has been to continue to provide been superbly run by Dr Paul Miller. As Stoics, can be read throughout this Stoics with a broad, literary education ever, we have welcomed a range of edition, and I do hope you enjoy the beyond the confines of the classroom, academics, poets and performers, each collection that these very talented writers allowing them to discover that ‘doing talk preceded by the usual high quality have produced. English’ is not all about hitting the dinner in one of the fine State Rooms of Finally, although it now seems rather a dreaded ‘Assessment Objectives’ and Stowe. Articles on these societies appear cliché to mention the ‘rising trend’ in exam success. Thanks to the dedication of elsewhere in this magazine, and suffice to examination results, it would be wrong every member of the English Department, say a very big thank you to both of them not to acknowledge the success of some it is an area in which we have succeeded for all their hard work and effort. very hard-working Stoics. For 2011, at admirably. From creative writing Thanks also to Mr Magnus Bashaarat and GCSE, 68% of pupils gained an A*-A grade competitions to visiting speakers and Mr Bob Roberts, who have organised the at English Literature, while 58% and 68% theatre trips, Stoics have been exposed to Sixth Form Book Club and the ‘Oxford gained A*-B grades at AS and A2 Level a wide range of stimulating and Society’. The Sixth Form Book Club aims respectively. We were also delighted that challenging events, which I hope will not to meet once every half-term, and so far Daniella Allard (Nugent) gained a place to only complement their examination work, we have studied Donna Tartt’s ‘The Secret read English at Cambridge University. but give them a love of literature for its History’, Lionel Shriver’s ‘We Need To Talk own sake. Thanks again to all the English About Kevin’, and Richard Beard’s Department who have put in so much Firstly, Miss Vicky Kinmond has ‘Lazarus is Dead’ (with the author as our effort over the year. Their work has been introduced the Junior Literary Society, guest speaker). The ‘Oxford Society’ (a greatly appreciated by me and the pupils which as well as acting as a forum for group of Sixth Form theatre buffs) has they teach, and I have no doubt the Third, Fourth and Fifth Form pupils to undertaken trips to Oxford and Stratford Department will continue to flourish, share creative writing and other authors’ to see ‘Measure for Measure’, ‘The under new leadership, in 2012! stories, has provided the chance for Tempest’ and ‘Tis Pity She’s A Whore’, various trips and visits outside of Stowe. three performances which have all Mr James Peppiatt, Head of English The Junior Literary Society now acts as an assisted pupils in their A2 examination excellent introduction to the Senior study of this genre. Here at Stowe we

18 The Stoic The Stoic 19 Academic Academic

references but even more importantly Biology Department allow our students to share their joy of Sunday 17 June saw the Stowe Biology science with other like minded Stoics. department heading off for its annual four Science We continue to advance our use of day pilgrimage/field course to ‘sunny’ interactive and classroom technology Pembrokeshire. Braving the vagaries of the through regular training and workshop weather and the even greater vagaries of Jeff’s sessions with Science staff, the current Coaches, 21 ‘eager’ would-be A2 biologists, focus being the use of document cameras, Mrs Louise Carter, Mr Michael Righton and I set class voting systems and on-line media in off on the five hour trip buoyed up by thoughts We are delighted that once again the Science lessons an exciting and effective lessons. We have also adopted ‘Kerboodle’ of seaweed zonation and sand dune succession. Wolfson Trust has recognised the voyage of discovery for all our students. which provides a wealth of internet based The first biological event (anti-peristalsis in this pioneering way in which we deliver There is much to celebrate in the Science resources that can be used by pupils case) occurred before Brackley (a School Science education at Stowe and thanks to department with the wealth of activities independently or set by teachers for prep. record surely) and the sick bags from the their generosity, we have received another that take place to enrich our students and The Science department looks forward to first aid box had to be swiftly deployed. The £30,000 grant to support our work. This support their applications to continue remainder of the journey was smooth; with allows us to replace the laptops and welcoming next year’s Harvard Fellow, their Science studies at university. You Sebastian Young and James Peagram in update the data-logging equipment Abby Koff, a Science specialist, who will will read about the many trips, lectures, be supporting us in our work as well as particular relishing the multitudinous facilities purchased with a similar grant five years available at service stations these days (I don’t enrichment activities and Sixth Form bringing fresh ideas to lessons. ago. It has also enabled us to install a new think they get out much). Upon our arrival we faster wireless network in the Science Science societies in the accompanying This summer sees a continuation of our embarked on freshwater invertebrate sampling Department and to establish a liquid articles from Biology, Chemistry and refurbishment programme to bring our and went on to rocky shore ecology and sand nitrogen storage facility. Having readily Physics. It’s no surprise that we currently Science teaching facilities up to date with dunes over the next two days. A brief summary available liquid nitrogen has already have the largest ever number of Sixth two more Physics laboratories being of woodland conservation techniques preceded allowed us to look at the properties of Form scientists and great success for completely refitted this summer. We do, the journey back to Stowe on Wednesday 20 materials at a very low temperature and our medics, vets and other candidates however, still put great emphasis on some June. The Stoics worked hard and cooperatively make instant ice cream – Heston applying to Russell Group universities of the more traditional and time throughout and should be in a strong position Chemistry Department afternoon, we were treated to a tour Blumenthal style! It has also allowed us to to read straight Science courses. Our honoured aspects of teaching Science, for the ecology component of January’s A2 of Oxford’s new Chemistry Research support Science demonstrations at local Quantum and Biomedical societies have The Chemistry Department has seen like class practicals, regular testing and module. Their reward for being such a good Centre to see cutting-edge science at prep schools and there are plans next year thriving memberships and foster real a typically busy and successful year, teacher-led delivery. It is the combination group of students was three days of almost first hand, before the Lower Sixth Form to investigate materials with super debate amongst our Senior students, as well as becoming a great deal cooler of the new and the old that we are proud uninterrupted sunshine and it’s not often that were subjected to an academic grilling conducting properties. All of this helps us as well as giving them all the chance to than it already was. After being part to use to such great effect at Stowe. sunburn is an issue on a biology field course! by Chemistry Fellows and the Upper stay at the forefront of Science education present their own interests and findings of the successful bid for a Wolfson Sixth Form to a slightly more convivial and supports us in our goal to make to their peers. Such activities boost UCAS Mr James Tearle, Head of Science Mr Rory Akam, Head of Biology Foundation grant, we took delivery of drink at the Head of The River. a liquid nitrogen storage facility and wasted very little time in using the As we bid farewell to our Upper Sixth, neutrinos. This was soon after the faster impressed with the enthusiasm of Stoics The Upper Sixth Form not only made a Physics Department super-cooled liquid to help with the we are delighted that all of our medics than light speed neutrinos were discovered for Physics and Science in general. primitive linear induction motor driving a cart and vets have received offers and also It has been a busy year for our Physicists, production of our own ice cream and despite his slight reluctance to share forward synchronising magnets and switches, very proud of those five Stoics going on with larger numbers in the Lower Sixth the Over Easter the department played host to (above). As anyone who has sampled this cutting edge information, he did give but also successfully built a six-coil, single to read Pure Chemistry. Oscar Cole, Sixth Form has expanded. We now have two Extreme Physics courses. Here 24 liquid nitrogen ice cream will testify, it us a valuable insight into the current issues magnet, three-phase generator. There was one Harriet Deakin, Michael Illingworth, two refurbished laboratories with the teams of gifted and talented students aged has an unrivalled, creamy texture, goes illustrated with the data and problems flaw with the final design: look at the graph Eloise Melville and Jessica Noakes have remaining two to be completed this 15 from schools as far away as the Lake extremely well with flash-frozen berries associated with the discovery. Trillions and (left) – can you spot the mistake? been a credit to Stowe, eliciting multiple Summer holiday. This will provide a much District and Portsmouth, competed for and is the perfect reward for having trillions of neutrinos had passed straight Most Physicists are members of the Quantum and generous offers from the likes of more modern environment to work in and prizes, undertaking a variety of Physics completed four continuous hours of through us that evening during the lecture Society which meets every week in one of Durham, Imperial, Bristol, UCL and a much better practical teaching area. New related challenges. The highlight was a Chemistry revision. and we had not realised it! the Physics labs. Here, the weird and Warwick. Most uplifting is the way each posters can be found on the walls with the visit to Airkix, where the meaning of wonderful experience of the quantum world On a balmy day in March, 14 Sixth Form of them has taken ownership of the large infinity mirrors and a huge concave The Physics Department had a helpful, terminal velocity was fully understood! is examined leaving many of us not sure Chemists were lucky enough to be given subject, consistently outshining their mirror being a popular addition. In search informal inspection by Dr Chris Hurst who This event really did put Stowe on the whether we were there or elsewhere or both exclusive use of Oxford University’s peers at interview with their genuine of broader horizons, the first trip off site, thoroughly enjoyed talking to our students Scientific map and everyone thoroughly (or neither?). As well as the extension work undergraduate laboratories. They first understanding and enthusiasm. As a was to the Open University where we and spending four days with us. He left enjoyed their experience here. the Quantum Society does have fun with prepared ‘mystery’ esters (chemicals result, several extremely complimentary discovered more about the Universe Chinese meals, croquet matches and SHM’s frequently used as natural flavourings in and personal letters from University during one evening lecture and the almost weekly cartoons and breaking news food and fragrances) and were then Admissions Tutors now hang on our ‘roundness’ of the electron at another. All in the scientific world. tasked with identifying precisely what wall and will serve as a reminder, not the Sixth Form Physicists enjoyed a trip to they had synthesised, using the only of our pride in these students, London for a day of high powered lectures It is hoped to get more Stoics interested in the University’s spectroscopy lab (above). but also in the capacity of Stowe to buck 11 inch reflecting telescope next year in order presented by award-winning Physicists. Tours of both University and Jesus the national trend in consistently to explore our Solar System first hand as this is Here we saw flames dancing to music and Colleges were taken and students sending significant numbers of talented underused at the moment. If you have a the sun in 3D! The highlight of our visits enjoyed lunch in Jesus’ Dining Hall, students to read Pure Chemistry at our telescope, bring it to school! was the trip to Oxford University to hear watched over by the unmistakeable best Universities. Professor Frank Close deliver a talk on Mr Steve Malling, Head of Physics likeness of T.E. Lawrence. In the Mr Daren Jeffreys, Head of Chemistry

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options culminate in a visit to either Berlin or Andalusia in the Upper Sixth Form. History The McElwee award continues to be a major highlight for all aspiring historians. Bill McElwee taught at Stowe for thirty years (1932-1962) with a gap for service during the Second World War in which he was awarded the MC. Following his death in 1978 a Trust was established in his History at Stowe continues to thrive after views which were very much in keeping memory which has helped to fund travel another very successful and busy year. with the arguments put forward by his scholarships for Stowe historians over the For the first time the History Department late son, George ‘Dawyck’ Haig (Old last 30 years. This year the award was will boast ten Sixth Form sets making it Stoic). Upper Sixth Form historians presented to four pairs of Stoics: Oliver the third largest Department in the enjoyed a revision seminar from the Jackson and Freddie Clarke who plan to School. Departmental results continue Tudor historian, Dr Susan Doran, who travel to Berlin to study its economic and on an upward trend and we were further developed their understanding cultural importance to Germany; Isabella delighted that five candidates secured of Tudor Politics in the run up to their Wallersteiner and Helena Lewis who plan A* grades at A Level last August. This exams in May. to chart the fall of the Ottoman Empire marks a significant increase on the with a visit to Istanbul; Anastasia Beck and The introduction of two clear pathways at previous year and we hope further Jahnai Hall who plan to take a musical A Level seems to have been a real success tour through the sights and sounds of records will be broken this summer! with numbers of students choosing the Venice; and Joshua Dickinson and The History extension society has risen subject continuing to rise. Students have Orlando Whitehead who plan to in prominence with weekly meetings and been given a choice of either a modern investigate the Moorish influence on the formal dinners to celebrate the visits of course which focuses on individual rights Iberian peninsular through a visit to Geography notable historians to the School. In March and power relationships in the 19th and Seville, Grenada and Cordoba. we welcomed the eminent military 20th centuries or an early modern course Mr James Hayden, Head of History historian, Professor Gary Sheffield, who which explores the changing nature of gave a compelling talk exonerating the social order and royal authority in 15th Field Marshal Earl Haig’s reputation – and 16th century England. Both A Level The London Olympic Trip North Wales Trip On Tuesday 11 October, the Lower Sixth The annual Upper Sixth Geographers trip Geographers took a trip to the Olympic began on 16 October when we departed Park in Stratford in London. When we for North Wales. After a long coach arrived we walked to a salmon factory journey we arrived at the centre where Top: Upper Sixth trip to North Wales Bottom: Lower Sixth trip to the Olympic Park owned by Foreman & Sons. Mr Foreman we all quickly settled in for the night. The talked to us about how the new Olympic first day of the field trip we were split up Park meant his company had to relocate, into groups and went our different ways to carry out fieldwork investigations. and all the problems and benefits to source a lot of information even when After returning to the centre, we all had linked to the move. We had a guided the Welsh weather turned against us. an afternoon of writing up our projects; tour around the building and went up Once we had carried out the task we all to the roof with a direct view of the although tiring, it is hugely beneficial for had some time to explore the town and main stadium. our exam in January. After much hard go into a café for something to eat, which work we were able to take some time to proved popular with everyone. Once After lunch, we had a lesson on the relax in the bar downstairs where we back at the centre we continued with development of the Olympic Park in a could come together and have a drink. typing up what we had found from the classroom overlooking the whole site. The second day was an early start with data collected in the field. Both groups We were told about how the development the groups departing for different managing to finish relatively early, which of the park has improved the local area locations. One group went to Harlech was a huge achievement and this allowed and the issues faced in finding uses for sand dunes, while the other went to time for us to enjoy some extra free time the facilities and space after the games Cricceth beach. Although we were there and then to pack for the early morning have finished. It was a successful trip and to work, both groups were able to enjoy start which marked half-term. We would we all gained a lot of knowledge and lunch on the beach before heading back like to thank Mrs Cass, Mrs Akam and understanding about how much planning to the centre to complete the rest of our Mr Murray who organised and were a the Olympic Park involves. It was a great projects. On the final day the groups huge help on the trip. Professor Gary Sheffield experience so thank you to the joined together to collect data in the Mrs Zoe Cass, Head of Geography Geography Department! nearby town of Porthmadog. We managed

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best athletes. He talked about his experiences as an Olympian and was then guest of honour at a dinner for our Gifted and Talented Sports Science and PE Sports Science students. Simon Jones and Nick Allen (Old Stoic) gave us a fascinating insight into their lives as Physiotherapists and in and PE Simon’s case, what it was like working with one of the world’s top golfers, Ian Poulter. We also teamed up with the Maths Department to take a group of students down to the Museum of London It has been an extremely busy and exciting year. Robert Hill was a deserving winner for a lecture on ‘Maths in Sport: year for our department, especially with of the Upper Sixth Sports Science prize, Throwing, Jumping and Spinning’. Our the build up to the London Olympics. whilst Harry Martin’s exemplary work final trip of the year, was our annual visit The Third Form Physical Education (PE) record and Lucy Horan’s all round to Loughborough University, where the students have enjoyed a year of excellence secured them the Lower Sixth Stoics were able to look around and experiencing a wide variety of activities, and Fifth Form awards respectively. The experience what will be the holding camp with our goal being to introduce them members of the Stowe Elite Sports Squad for Team GB in the months leading up to to an activity that they will continue to also featured highly in the round up of the Olympics. The highlight of this trip is participate in for the rest of their lives. the School’s successes. James Rudkin and always the Laboratory session and ‘VO2 This year we have seen the highest Claudia Button won the Colin Shillington max’ test that they carry out. This allows Cups for outstanding sporting number of Stoics opting to study GCSE the pupils to experience firsthand how achievement and led the large list of Sports Science. Our Fifth Form Sports elite endurance athletes are tested and Scientists were highly commended by the Stoics who currently hold places in Junior also enables them to understand the role external moderator on their performances and Senior International squads. of Sports Science support in helping our on the controlled assessment day. At AS With the 2012 Olympics as a theme for Olympians reach their overall goal. Professor AC Grayling and A2 Level, Stoics study three main the year, we were very proud to put on a topics areas; Anatomy and Exercise Thanks once again to all our staff for the number of seminars, talks and visits by Physiology, Psychology and the Historical time and effort that they have put in to guest speakers. To start us off, we and Socio-Cultural influences on ensure this has been another superb year welcomed Mike McFarlane, a former performance. The variety of subject for the Department. Olympic and Commonwealth Games matter and the differing skills required at medallist and current athletics coach to Mr Phil Arnold, Head of Sports Science and A Level, gives our students an excellent the World Junior and Youth sprint Physical Education foundation for a number of different champion. On the theme of athletics, courses at the top universities. Religious Studies Brendan Reilly, a former double Olympic The prize-giving ceremony on Speech Day High Jumper came in for the day to carry allowed us to celebrate a number of our out a video analysis session with a GCSE pupils’ outstanding achievements this group, give a coaching seminar to our

This has been another busy year for the between Ward and Arliss on Kant which Religious Studies Department. We had showed them how to construct a record numbers taking the subject at coherent argument. GCSE and a wide array of trips, visits and For many of us, the highlight of the year speakers were organised. We also was the visit to the British Museum to welcomed three new members of the see the award winning Hajj exhibition. department; Mr Anthony Macpherson We took all Fourth and Fifth Form GCSE Other events throughout the year (the new Housemaster of Temple), Rev. Full Course students plus the XX Group included a visit from Professor AC Chris Huxtable (the new Chaplain) and and they were all enthralled by the sights Grayling from The New College of Miss Ellie Donaldson (soon to be Assistant and sounds of this extraordinary spiritual Humanities who treated us to a talk on Housemistress of Nugent). journey. We also took the opportunity what it is to be a Philosopher. The Cross In February, the Lower Sixth pupils visited to visit some of the other galleries to Curricular Film Society presented the Oxford to hear Julie Arliss, Keith Ward show them exhibits such as the tablet challenging Spanish film ‘El Crimen del and Peter Barron speak on a number containing a version of the Biblical Flood Padre Amaro’ which was introduced by Mr Dobson. of subjects under the heading ‘Ethics story and the mosaic showing the earliest and Philosophy’. They saw a debate known depiction of Jesus Christ. Mr Dom Mochan, Head of Religious Studies

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everything works, what Bruno likes and which is home to an enormous number Saturday morning gave everyone time what Bruno doesn’t like. He finally leaves, of students. to relax and sit in one of many squares but not before he shows her an incredibly in Montpellier (continental style) and take We were met at Montpellier airport by our long list of emergency numbers. in some last minute shopping before host families and all whisked away the host families took their charges to The Fourth Formers and the two Third immediately to sample ‘la cuisine the airport. It was certainly an action- Form sets that came to see this play had française’. Students spent every evening packed week. a great time sharing poor Natalie’s with their host families endeavouring to frustration at dealing with M.Dulin, and converse in their best French. Every Mrs Hazel Browne their amusement at seeing a good number morning was spent in class at LSF Onatti Spanish-language play of their classmates dragged up out of the Montpellier, with the group divided into – ‘Primera Cita’ (First Date) audience to join in really added to the three sets and taught by native French whole atmosphere! As ever with these speakers. Students were taken out onto The stage is divided into two. On one side cleverly-scripted plays, the repetition and the central ‘Place de la Comédie’ on the is a girl’s bedroom and on the other is a the provision of vocabulary lists prior to final day by their teachers to practise their boy’s bedroom. the play gave Stoics a very real advantage language on unsuspecting locals! A ‘picnic’ This story is an hilarious observation of in understanding what is going on in the lunch (the biggest baguettes ever seen) The revived Languages Society has had two love-struck Spanish teenagers, María play, and consequently, the whole was provided by the school and then a a busy and productive year with activities and Carlos, getting ready for that most experience turned out to be very range of activities was offered, including a ranging from American dance important First Date! In both bedrooms rewarding for our audience. guided tour of the old town of Montpellier, sessions for both Lower School and Sixth there is hysteria, panic, fear and Lower Sixth French trip to Vichy Mr Simon Dobson a trip to Nimes, a visit to Montpellier zoo Formers, to an excellent, entertaining and apprehension. María has issues with her and a trip to Odysseum, the regional informative talk from Mr Moffat on “What make-up, her hair, her clothes and a very Montpellier shopping centre. We even managed to makes the French so French”. Other untimely spot on her face! While Carlos, include a cinema visit to see ‘un monstre à highlights were cookery demonstrations Thirty-four students and three staff – Mrs in his room, attempts his first ever shave! and extensive sampling, focusing on Dickson, Mr Michael and I spent six days Paris’ (which was a cartoon and without What will they say? Where will they go? traditional French and Spanish cuisine, Languages in October on a language homestay trip in subtitles). As the weather was delightful, What will they wear! Montpellier, in the South of France. we also managed two separate trips to the with simultaneous translators (otherwise This could be a perfect night or an Students stayed in pairs with French magnificent sandy beaches, where we saw known as our language assistants) on embarrassing disaster. hand to provide a running commentary families and enjoyed the best of French the marvellous pink flamingos, and had on the proceedings. Mr Young from the hospitality from their host families, which some relaxation time, playing football, The Onatti Theatre Company sent two History of Art Department kindly were all based in the centre of or in the beach tennis and some brave students excellent actors for this one-hour explained the symbolism and Cubist suburbs of the Mediterranean metropolis had a swim. performance, and they did not disappoint. Lower Sixth French trip to well, because temperatures were theory behind Picasso’s ‘Guernica’ as part Vichy, June 2011 extremely high: 38 degrees was recorded of the Upper Sixth Form’s study of the on the first day, with Vichy being Spanish Civil War as well as giving the Six Lower Sixth Form language students; mentioned by name on national evening Lower School linguists an introduction to Emily Beatty, Titus Bridgwood, Gareth news as the hottest town in France. European nationalism as expressed in art; Browne, Michael Evans, Harriet Goffman Susana Bartolomé Bravo gave a fascinating and Claire Langer, accompanied by two We had chosen Vichy because, in the talk on idiomatic Spanish phrases and teachers, Mr Staples and Mrs Browne, Upper Sixth, students of French study the usage, to ensure that our Sixth Formers spent a few days in Vichy in central occupation of France during World War learn to express themselves in an France last June. Two and this was the location chosen by Petain’s government for its HQ during the interesting, colloquial manner that goes Our students were all “en famille”, and war years. beyond the bounds of grammar and their families would bring them into the syntax. A selection of Lower School college after breakfast every morning. Alas, our time in Vichy came to an end all linguists enjoyed the annual French and We were studying at Cavilam, which is the too quickly, but not before we had learnt Spanish plays, which have become a Vichy arm of Clermont Ferrand University. a lot about the occupation, enjoyed the regular feature of the school calendar, and delights of a small, provincial town in the we are delighted that there will also be a Their lessons would last four hours, until Auvergne and – above all – had the German play for 2013. Other plans for lunch, which we all took together in the opportunity to speak much French. 2012-2013 include cookery (Spanish tapas Cavilam canteen. Mr Peter Staples and Latin American empanadas), an After lunch, we enjoyed activities – which introduction to 19th Century French included two guided tours, a train-ride Onatti French-language play poetry and a talk on Chile for the Sixth around the town and tasting the world- – ‘Les Garçons’ (Boys) Form with the opportunity to sample famous waters at the spa – before the some Chilean wine; a further aim for next Stoics were picked up by their host Natalie is baby-sitting 2 year old Bruno for year is to provide regular opportunities families and whisked away until the M. and Mme Dulin while they go out to a for keen linguists and bilingual students next day. fancy dress party. to meet up informally with our assistants Vichy proved to be a delightfully attractive When Natalie arrives M. Dulin explains to for extra conversation and discussion. town on the banks of a cool river. Just as Natalie where everything is, how Top: Onatti French-language play – ‘Les Garçons’ (Boys). Bottom: Montpellier

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photographs of the Spanish Civil War, variety of Greek plays, starting with which focused on the plight of civilians ‘Clytemnestra’, a version of Agamemnon, up in the violence. On Palm Sunday in Japanese style at the Oxford Playhouse we drove high into the mountains to Sierra in November. The clash of cultures both de Francia where we visited the monastery Classics visually and musically made for a and attended part of a mass in the Church memorable evening. In February we of the Black Virgin. Most of the group braved falling snow and slippery roads to opted to walk part of the way down the see ‘Hecuba’ at the Greenwood Theatre mountain to reach our next port of call, a performed by King’s College London. medieval mountain village called Alberca, The story of revenge was powerfully famous for its timbered houses and presented and, as at Oxford, the use of Five Fifth Formers took the new Level 2 Greek to three of the Lower School sets. cobbled streets. surtitles for translation enabled all to examination in Latin Language offered As the Harvard Scholar, she had a wide keep abreast of the poetry being spoken. On Monday, our last full day, we had an by WJEC last summer and it was good to background in language and culture In the Summer term we again travelled to in-depth look around the old university, see several A* grades from them, along which she used to good effect. She also London, this time to see ‘Antigone’ at the learning about its history and admiring the with those sitting the usual GCSE insisted on a high level of commitment National Theatre, in a contemporary library and ancient teaching rooms, still examinations. For the first time a Stowe and work ethic from those she taught. In Mr Qiao, the Chinese Ambassador for Education English translation. It was a memorable with the original – and very uncomfortable- candidate at Latin A Level scored an A*, January we welcomed Mrs Anne Blaseby presentation set in the brash computer- looking – benches; it is the third oldest and 50% of the grades in Stowe’s last year for two terms. Mrs Blaseby has a wealth driven politics of the 1970s, still ever university in Europe after Bologna and the From the start, the Stoic audience was able Sixth Form Spanish trip to of Classical Civilisation were A, so it was a of experience from a variety of schools relevant pitching the state’s supposed Sorbonne and continues to thrive today. In to suffer the frustration and nerves of our Salamanca pleasing summer. The new pattern of and soon settled into Stowe. She has security against greater human rights. jittery ‘First-Daters’ and it was not long the evening, students had the chance to OCR GCSEs for Latin and Greek is settling taken a promising group of Third Form A group of Upper and Lower Sixth, polish up their cookery skills and make an before the Stoic audience provided its down well, although 2013 will be the last Stoics as well as Fourth and Fifth form Talks have included a good overview of accompanied by Mrs Dickson and Mr authentic ‘tortilla española’ and sweet own actors for the play! It is never difficult year where candidates can aim to get the sets. We wish her all the best as she goes Greek vase painting and mythological Dobson, set off for Madrid in the dark at pastries from scratch. scenes. In January, Mr Sandy Smith to drum up enthusiasm for these prose literature out of the way in the to Downe House as Head of Classics. 4am on Thursday 29 March, with the aim addressed all those taking Greek at a performances, as the Spanish students An early start on Tuesday led to a boring Fourth Form before sitting the rest of the of spending that afternoon visiting Madrid’s We are also grateful to Mr Tony Chan, supper in the Blue Room. In April, have already heard about the previous wait at Madrid airport, as this time it was papers and the verse literature at the end art museums. Unfortunately the Spanish who has been teaching Fourth Form Professor Boris Rankov kindly visited and year’s performance and are always keen the French air traffic controllers’ turn to of the Fifth Form. decided to hold a general strike that very Latin. He has been a great enthusiast in gave an illustrated lecture in the to attend and to witness the awkwardness strike…The trip was a great success, day and, due to the size and mood of the In September the Classics department supporting the varied Classical Society Dobinson Theatre to Third Form Latin (or otherwise…) of their peers when they relaxed and good humoured throughout; demonstrations in the centre of Madrid, welcomed Miss Jordan Bryant to teach events this year. We have seen a good students and many others on the Greek are picked out to join in! Thanks to the the students all made the most of the we were advised to spend the afternoon in varied opportunities to practise the trireme. It was a topical subject since the vocabulary lists and the clear delivery of Ávila instead. We enjoyed a leisurely walk language whilst learning more about the previous week the national press had the actors, Stoics reported a clear around the medieval city walls and saw our James Rudkin (Upper Sixth) with interviewed him on whether Olympias, understanding of the language and really Spanish way of life and Salamanca proved Professor Boris Rankov first storks, busy mending their nests on to be a beautiful and fascinating small city. the Greek ship reconstruction project enjoyed the evening. the cathedral towers, before continuing to with which he has been closely involved Mrs Kate Dickson Mrs Kate Dickson Salamanca where students were met by over many years, would be able to lead their host families. German Department the final stage of the torch route to the Mr Qiao’s Visit London Olympics. He explained the On Friday we met up at 10am for our first Once again, the German Department historical background as well as the The MFL department welcomed Mr Qiao, tour of Salamanca, which included parts of celebrated a very successful academic year. practical challenges of rowing such a the Chinese Ambassador for Education, the ancient university, the Moorish alcazar, 83% of our non-native Germanists got an ship, drawing on his wide and and his wife to Stowe on Tuesday 17 the Roman bridge and the Art Nouveau A at A Level, and our 100% A-C record at distinguished experience. Afterwards January. Mr and Mrs Qiao we given a tour and Deco museum, with a pit stop for GCSE and A Level remains unbroken. After some Stowe rowers joined us for supper of the School and met the Headmaster ‘chocolate con churros’ half-way through. the success of last year’s trip to Munich, we in the Blue Room. In February the Lower in the Gothic Library before addressing After lunch with their families, the students are hoping to offer another trip to Bavaria Sixth Latinists attended a useful series of Stoics in the languages department. had four hours of lessons followed by an open to the Fourth, Fifth and Lower Sixth lectures in London on the new AS set Mr Qiao spoke to our Chinese students extremely popular tapas tour, led by a local Formers in 2013. We expect this trip to texts, including one by the author of the and the six Stoics (Harrison Tucker, guide, which involved sampling local take place in the Summer term, more edition being used. Artura Subowo, Dimitry Romanovsky, chorizo, manchego, vino tinto and other details to be released next term. Looking Caio Castellini Baldissera, Roman Dubois- delights in a variety of local bars, the best ahead, we are also thrilled to be welcoming It is good to see so many at Stowe taking Pelerin and Nai Chi Tsai) studying of which was inside a form of crypt big the Onatti Theatre Company on 21 January Greek at present. The eight sitting GCSE Mandarin at Stowe about the Chinese enough for caballeros of yore to ride right 2013. The Onatti Company specialises in Greek this summer is a record for recent New Year and explained the traditions and inside and up to the bar on their horses. tailor made productions for language years and those taking it outside the celebrations. The Stoics introduced students in the Lower School. Stowe has timetable have shown an admirable level On Saturday, after a morning of lessons, used this company for years in French and of motivation and dedication. The themselves in Mandarin and benefited we went up onto the cathedral roof for a Spanish, and with growing numbers of relevance of what the Greeks wrote, from the opportunity to ask questions to terrifying bird’s eye view over Salamanca students opting for German, we are thought and created remains ever fresh Mr and Mrs Qiao about the Chinese New and also of the amazing interior of the delighted to be able to offer a German play and alive to each new generation, not Year. We are most grateful to our Mandarin cathedral, which was much appreciated by this coming year. least in a special Olympics year in the UK. Tutor, Rong Wei, for organising the visit. Mr Dobson, our official trip photographer. Mrs Tracy Jones We then visited an exhibition of Mrs Alice Tearle Mr Michael Bevington, Head of Classics

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The Economics extension club entered the Bank of England 2.0 Challenge. Molly Davison, Emily Marchant, Chima Ngerem and Inca Curwen took part with support from the other members of the group. The students worked extremely hard on their presentation and learned a lot from the whole experience. Two of the judges were particularly impressed with their econometric analysis to illustrate the J curve. This is most certainly university level economics and Mr Ponniah was impressed with the group’s ability to pick up these concepts with alacrity. Finally, at the end of the Summer term, Stowe hosted a mock Question Time event which was based on the famous BBC Television programme. Claire Fox, Director of the Institute of Ideas and Politics and Radio 4 Moral Maze panellist was Chair. A prestigious panel of politicos, commentators and opinion formers were Economics put through their paces by an audience of Stoics. Panellists included; Mark Littlewood – Director General of the Institute of Economic Affairs, former The Economics and Politics Department various memorials and Smithsonian communications director for the Liberal continues to achieve excellent A Level museums on the National Mall, as well as Democrats, and campaigns director at results and, to meet the growing demand a tour of Congress, the Supreme Court Liberty; John Cooper QC – one of and a look into the working office of a for these subjects, appointed two new London’s leading barristers, a regular United States Senator (Jeanne Shaheen full-time specialists at the start of the columnist for The Observer, The Times Democratic Party – New Hampshire). academic year. Along with strong class and The Sunday Express, who has also room teaching and a sadistic amount of The trip was a great success, and the written plays for theatre and television; mocks there have also been a number of Senatorial staff and lobbyists whom we Rowenna Davis – a journalist specialising extra-curricular trips and activities met all commented on the well-informed in social and political affairs who writes designed to educate and inspire Stoics. and intelligent questions asked by the for The Guardian, New Statesman and ICT Stoics. Thanks go to Mrs Dawson and Fifty Lower Sixth politics students spent The Independent, a Labour councillor Mr Aston for accompanying the trip, and for Southwark in London, and author of the day visiting the Houses of Parliament Mr Dawson and Mr Lyle for doing the Top: Zach Coupland demonstrates his computer game; and the Supreme Court in London. Tangled Up in Blue, an account of the new Bottom: Nai Chi Tsai’s Anime Website Home Page Heathrow runs in the minibus. ‘Blue Labour’ movement in the Labour Beginning with a guided tour around the Party; Aaron Porter – former President of Palace of Westminster, some were able to The Lower Sixth Form Stoics (who will be the National Union of Students who watch Prime Minister’s Question Time invited on the Washington trip next year) The year saw a move towards the produced some excellent websites this solving skills. This will be an exciting works as a freelance journalist and from the viewing gallery. The rest of us had a chance to engage in the excitement introduction of more Computing into the year. Nai Chi Tsai created an Anime fan addition to the Stowe curriculum for educational consultant; Dr James Panton were invited by MP and Stowe parent, of the US presidential election system at ICT Curriculum. It is fair to say that this site with impressive photo montaging next year. the end of the Summer term. There was – a politics teacher at Stowe who had a was inspired within the Department, and Richard Drax, to watch Question Time using Photoshop. The Lower Sixth ICT class along with a primary election for Democrats and previous life as an Oxford academic, a prior to Mr Gove’s initiatives! Third Form from Portcullis House. Richard then took We are delighted to be offering GCSE some Fifth Form Stoics visited the Republicans, which included a full social and political commentator for Stoics receive a grounding in the use of questions and led an enlivening political Computing for the Fourth Form, Olympic Park back in November. campaign, a debate in the Dobinson, numerous radio and television news the common applications to support their discussion with the students. The group spent some classroom time then a blanket primary for all students programmes, and a political campaigner other academic subjects, and also learn beginning in September. This will give looking at how Information Technology In the last week of the Easter holiday a to participate in during the last week of who co-founded the civil libertarian anti about vital e-safety issues. However, in candidates an opportunity to find out will be used on the Olympic site, and group of students led by Mr Barker visited term. It was the job of the candidates to red-tape group the Manifesto Club. addition to this, we have now introduced what goes on “behind the screen”, as how it is used in athletes’ training Washington DC to further their study of opposed to learning computer educate the electorate about what the Overall it has been an exciting year and a term of game making, where Stoics have programmes. This was followed by a American History and Politics. Highlights applications. The three-unit course is primaries are and why they should vote. the above does not do justice to the hard the opportunity to create their own tour of the site and area. This was a included a visit to the Washington Post designed to give candidates an in-depth The winners of each respective primary work and dedication of all the teachers in “App-style” games, similar to those played good experience, but sadly we couldn’t where Gerry Rosberg (Editor), Don understanding of how computer campaign secured their party’s the department who continue to push by many on their smart phones. This will enter the main stadium for a jog around Graham (Chairman) and Ben Bradlee technology works and a look at what goes nomination and have gone through to the Stoics and reinforce the importance of be expanded next year with Third Form the track for security reasons! (Editor at the time of the Watergate presidential election in November 2012 study and a positive work ethos. pupils having the opportunity to attend on “behind the scenes”. As well as Mr Simon Gabbatiss scandal) led a discussion on recent dedicated Computing lessons, with more investigating how computers work, and fight for the overall presidency at the Mr Kevin Ryce, Head of Economics and Politics historical and political issues of same time as Mitt Romney and Barack of a focus on the basics of computer candidates will also have the opportunity significance. Also the group visited the Obama across the Atlantic. programming. Third Form Stoics to develop programming and problem-

30 The Stoic The Stoic 31 Academic Academic

Ultimately the Giving Nation group over two terms, turned an initial £50 investment into £250 profit which has been invested with Kiva, a micro-financing PSHE charity which finances loans to small scale enterprises in LEDCs. The funds raised ensured a cow was bought in Kenya and businesses in Guatemala, Sierra Leone and the Philippines added to their business The PSHE Department at Stowe was life on a coffee and banana plantation. stock. Eventually the funds raised by Giving Nation will be paid back to our created in September 2010 to enrich The week concluded with a safari through Kiva account and we will then re-lend pastoral provision through a bespoke the Ngorongoro Crater. those funds once again. course introducing psychology, As part of the Service@Stowe provision philosophy and sociology through a Finally Stoics in the Third Form engaged and an important element of the PSHE thematic curriculum. The PSHE inquisitively with our ‘Citizenship and curriculum – entrepreneurship and Department has a specialist classroom the Law’ week. Stoics examined the financial capability – Stoics were given and subject practioner who teaches all nature and destructiveness of bullying Stoics in Third, Fourth and Fifth Forms a budget of £50 with a view to turning on the human spirit and met our local once a week. At Stowe central to the this to profit once invested. police liaison officer who explained the law as regards harassment and public philosophy of the PSHE department is that The ‘Giving Nation’ challenge group order offences. Stoics should demonstrate compassion, a decided on the purchase of food and sense of justice and stewardship. beverages from Costco to be hopefully The week culminated in a presentation on the effects of bullying by Superintendent This year the department has continued re-sold for profit. There were a few Andy Boyd of Thames Valley Police. to expand beyond the classroom to bring glitches with food purchased past the the course content to reality. During sell by date, loss of stock and under- Ms Kirsten McLintock, Head of PSHE October half-term, 16 Stoics ventured to pricing. Stoics soon learnt which items Tanzania to teach English and serve the sold best, and pricing strategies were local community in the shadow of Mount honed. The group even learnt not to Kilimanjaro. Stoics also levelled a playing accept foreign currency and promises History of Art field, painted a classroom and experienced of payment at a later date.

The year has been an active one for art of Venetian buildings, the problems wrapping up well, the opportunity to historians. There have been trips local, of constructing upon a silted salt water study the architecture of the city from national and international and lagoon and the opportunities for lighter the top of the Empire State building by distinguished speakers visiting the and more decorative structures that their night was not to be missed. Trips to the School offering Stoics a view of life in solutions permitted. remarkable collections of the the wider art world. Metropolitan Museum, MOMA and the The second lecture, given by Caroline de Frick were supplemented by unique Early in the autumn the Lower Sixth took Guitaut, Curator of Decorative Arts at opportunities, such as visiting the the Royal Collection, concerned the up the opportunity to visit the National normally private studio of Robert Gallery in London. Studying work at first work of Carl Fabergé. It is hard to Rauschenberg, one of the twentieth hand by the likes of Botticelli, Rembrandt, conceive of a more visually stunning century’s most famous artists. Turner and Monet certainly made a lasting theme than the jewellery of this most impression. For many this was their first famous of Russian decorative artists. Closer to home the art historians visited experience of looking at artwork in a Perhaps predictably it was the Easter Blenheim Palace in the Summer term. structured and guided manner and the Eggs that seemed to captivate Stoics, This was an opportunity to study another trip was widely appreciated. their phenomenal richness of materials ducal palace and to encounter English and decoration were quite simply Baroque architecture on a grand scale. Both Lower and Upper Sixth came remarkable. Stoics also learned of the Departing from the Library, a room over together for two major lectures later strong ties that bound the royal one hundred and eighty feet in length, at in the Michaelmas term. The first was least Stoic remarked that they had learned households of Europe together; Fabergé’s given by Mr Charles Hall on the subject about the most amazing things. pieces were not merely beautiful gifts, of the city of Venice. His detailed, almost but also a kind of diplomacy. Mr Iain Young encyclopaedic knowledge of the city certainly impressed Stoics. Those with The highlight of the year was, for many art Giving Nation group, back row, left to right: Sophie Rushton, Harriet Comyn, Alexander Levitt-Schrivener, a keen interest in architecture were historians, the trip to New York. Although Genevieve Roxburgh, Helena Lewis ; Front row: Gabriel Gleeson, Otto Balfour, Charles Samuelson fascinated by his accounts of the structure the cold February weather necessitated

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appreciate the built world around us. We try to prepare them for progression to DT the creative industries of Product Design, Architecture, Engineering, Automotive Design, Web, Multimedia and Design for Print, Marketing and Branding. As we do this, we become acutely aware of the demands, and the wide scope and responsibility that delivering this subject effectively has. We ask Stoics to question why they do things, why don’t things This year’s work culminated with a display best performing departments within the work as well as they should, how could of the Department’s practical outcomes. School, this commitment can never be they make it better, how could it look Selected A Level and GCSE projects from underestimated. better? We encourage creativity, freedom both the Graphic Products and the We still seem to be fighting the perception of thinking, and a different way of Resistant Materials disciplines were that the manufactured article is the be all thinking from that of many subjects within displayed on Speech Day within and end all of the work that we produce the curriculum; that’s what makes us StoweBucks; no easy task considering the within the Department. The challenge of different, and that’s why we’re successful. size of some of the products that have the subject really comes from mastering As this year draws to a close, the Design been designed and manufactured by this the creative challenges of design, and Department continues to forge ahead year’s cohort of Stoics! There was some communicating complex ideas in a variety with new ideas and the promise of truly outstanding work to be seen, of media, then striving to manufacture development and refurbishment within representing many, many hours of work and model these ideas to produce a high the ageing infrastructure. This academic and high level thinking. Stoics have quality outcome. As we move further into year has seen some further changes to continued to push the boundaries of the 21st century, the subject is continuing the building and rationalisation of the designing and manufacturing, as to embrace new technologies; such as our teaching areas. We will have the largest evidenced by the practical and folder CNC machinery (the use of the CNC number of Stoics ever studying the work of the vast majority of this year’s Router has vastly increased this year, as subject throughout the exam groups, a cohort. The talent and the devotion that has the huge number of items that we pleasant challenge to manage for the Stoics show to their work is a huge have created on our Laser Cutters, as well size of the classrooms and workshops encouragement to me as the Head of as the addition of our 3D colour printer). that we have. We take confidence from Department. The Department benefits The use of modern and smart materials this; the subject is hugely popular and massively from both its experienced and are continuing to challenge the very successful at what it does. So do younger teaching staff, as well as the boundaries of what can be achieved, and come down and see what we do, you’ll technicians, all of whom have been the increased use of Computer Aided genuinely be amazed! instrumental in nurturing Stoics, and Design packages is revolutionising the allowing them to reach their potential. work that can be produced at all levels Mr Myles Nash, Head of Design Thank you, to them all, for the continued throughout the School. As the world, and hard work and devotion that they have technology changes, so is the way that we put in over the last year. As one of the must teach Stoics to design products and

34 The Stoic The Stoic 35 Old Stoics Old Stoics

Old Stoics The Summer Party Tuesday 12 June 2012 Another hugely successful OS summer party was held at the Kensington Roof Gardens. Just shy of 300 were in attendance with band performances from OS bands Arthur Beatrice and Redstone Collective. The venue has been booked again for next year so keep an eye out for details. “Thank you for a fantastic evening on the Kensington Roof Gardens – incredibly good value and excellent company. After 38 years it was my first Old Stoic event and did not disappoint – brilliant!”

Dominic Cole (Lyttelton 74) Classic Cars on The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Speech Day Saturday 2 June 2012 Over 50 classic cars gathered on the North Front at this year’s Diamond Jubilee Speech Day, one of the busiest days in the School’s calendar. Old Stoics, parents and friends of Stowe met for pre-lunch champagne and canapés in the OS marquee, hosted by Hagerty Classic Car Insurance and the Old Stoic Society, before heading over to the South Front for the speeches and the ‘Big Picnic’. “What a fabulous day – Thank you! Stowe is perfect for such a Royal occasion. I thoroughly enjoyed bringing my young family along to the classic car meeting and to show them around. The Old Stoic Society really is going places – 10/10!” Alex McEwen (Chatham 91)

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Junior School Congreve performances. Continued successes in public performance were celebrated during the year – Alec Pultr, Hugo Ellison, William Bruce Pepera and Patrick Keating collected a prize in the Junior debating competition Bruce 2012 and Charles Johnson won a prize in the Third Form Poetry Recital competition. The well read team of Imran Momen, Alec Pultr, William and Luke Pepera proved strong enough to crown Bruce as the Champions in the House Literary Quiz. Our strong sporting tradition was maintained with wins in the Senior and Junior singles and doubles badminton, Fifth Form soccer, Fourth Form rugby, Third Form dodge ball, Junior basketball, Intermediate athletics, and several runners up positions. This summer’s © R & H Chapman Photography Bruce House picnic was a great success The House Singing competition is the first with many parents attending an informal Housemaster: Mr Craig Sutton big whole School House event, staged a gathering in the grounds before being Matron: Miss Ann Lake few weeks into the Michaelmas term. entertained by an amazing display of Assistant Housemaster: I expect the lead to be taken by the Upper musical talent which included Mr Charlie Barker Sixth Form as it is their opportunity to performances by boys from all year Under Housemaster: impart their style and character on groups. Our thanks go to Head of House, Mr proceedings and this often sets the tone Alexander Miarli, who organised this with Head of House: Alexander Miarli and atmosphere in House for the year. his usual efficiency and aplomb. In a Senior School Prefect: I was particularly impressed with the recent questionnaire given to all boys in Imran Momen Bruce entry on this occasion. The the House, I was pleased to see that the overwhelming responses cited that the School Prefects: Alexander Miarli, charismatic, enthusiastic and amusing best thing about Bruce is the ‘family Kirk Blair, Gareth Browne, Upper Sixth, (with Alexander Miarli, atmosphere and feeling of togetherness’. Guillermo Ordorica Shkurovich, Henry Stockdale and Titus Bridgwood to the fore) organised a very challenging The talented and charismatic Upper Sixth Broghan Smith, song which was a medley of 16 different Form can claim much credit for this. The House Prefects: Imran Momem, songs. They struck exactly the right chord Third Form have been an extremely Kirk Blair, Gareth Browne, in terms of giving clear direction and pleasant group of lads who have settled Guillermo Ordorica Shkurovich, influence, whilst keeping everyone into the school routine quickly and Broghan Smith, Daniel interested and willing to sing attacked their new challenges with real Baniukevic, James Barnett, wholeheartedly (and laughing!). The enthusiasm, being assisted by the helpful Thomas Baylis, Titus Bridgwood, actual performance was excellent and guidance of the Third Form Prefect, Matthew Corless, Archie Nesbitt, although we did not win (we were Archie Nesbitt. Our star year group in Brodie Smith, Henry Stockdale second) the experience set Bruce House terms of APG grades has been the Fourth off on a path to an excellent year. Another Form, who consistently led the way with definite highlight has to be the House superb effort grades. I would like to finish play. This was directed by our very own by paying a tribute to our departing Imran Momen, a very talented Bruce Matron, Ann Lake, who retires this year. Upper Sixth Form drama student, who Ann has been Matron of Bruce House for has just been accepted to one of the most 17 years. The care and support she has prestigious drama schools, LAMDA. He given to so many Bruce boys over the took on a serious and thought-provoking years has been simply outstanding and we are all very grateful to her. She will be play called ‘The Aftermath’. Twenty-two greatly missed. Bruce boys were involved with the production which was performed to the Mr Craig Sutton, Housemaster very highest standard, with the lead part played with impressive maturity by Brodie Smith. Encouragingly several Bruce lads went on to appear in the Senior and

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prestigious Mozart Trio Prize. Guy Turner topped the list with victories in the Senior guitar, percussion and woodwind sections. Thomas Gordon-Colebrooke came first in the Intermediate voice category and Chandos second in the guitar and Miles Clark was second in the Intermediate voice and Chandos 2012 third in the brass category. Another notable achievement was Maximilian Smith’s superb portrayal of ‘Robert Sideways’ in the Senior Congreve, a part he played with sensitivity and emotion. Finally, Charlie Lockyer was the top goal scorer in the National Novice Arena Polo Championships, guiding his team to victory. The Summer term was a frustrating one © R & H Chapman Photography as drought orders gave way to monsoon going to be the theme for the term as we conditions and very little sport was played. Housemaster: Mr Barney Durrant were placed second in the Junior House Frustrating though this was it did channel Matron: Mrs Clare Hill-Hall cross-country, second in the Senior the boys into more work than they otherwise would have done and by the Assistant Housemaster: badminton and then again in the rugby. end of term, Chandos stood at the top of Mr Roland Johnson However, we finally managed to break through to the top spot for the House the merit league table, even beating the Under Housemaster: girls’ Houses. I think we can justifiably say singing. The House song (‘Human’ by Miss Gabrielle Peel that we are one of, if not the, most The Killers) was interestingly conducted hard-working Houses and we all eagerly Head of House: by Henry Rudd, but despite his best await the external examination results’ Edmund Robinson efforts, we still managed to beat all others. days in the summer! Fortunately the rain Deputy Head of House: The Part Song was no less impressive as did hold off for Sports Day and there were Charlie Cox Maximilian Smith, Jonathan Constant, a number of superb individual Thomas Gordon-Colebrooke and Miles Head Boy: Henry Rudd performances. The Senior boys’ relay saw Clark sang Paulo Nutini’s ‘Last Request’. one of our best performances as we just Senior School Prefects: Guy Turner arranged and accompanied the managed to hold off Grenville in one of Daniel Capurro, Henry Rudd piece with great style, with some help from the most closely fought races of the day. School Prefects: Mr Miles Nottage, and it was very gratifying There were wins for Harrison Dockerty in Edmund Robinson, David Akam, to see that all the boys’ hard work was the Junior boys 800m and 1500m, George Charlie Cox, Max Smith rewarded, as they won the boys’ section. Olley in the 400m, Toni Kuku in the Winning both sections meant a victory House Prefects: Titus Edwards, hurdles and William Thompson in the shot overall and the cheers could probably Victor Khaprov, Adeyoin put. Consequently, we won the Junior have been heard in Buckingham! Okuboyejo, Edward Warburton boys’ competition quite comfortably. The During the second term, the U15 rugby Senior boys’ team was no less impressive, This has been a great year for Chandos. team continued their campaign in the with Freddie Clarke winning the 400m, It was always going to be, with six out of Daily Mail Cup (eventually reaching the Edmund Robinson showing a clean pair of the ten Upper Sixth Formers being School semi-finals) and it was great to see so many heels in the 800m, Jake Olley winning the Prefects and the remainder being House Chandosians in the squad: Michael triple jump and Henry Rudd breaking the school javelin record. We won the Seniors’ Prefects. We were also fortunate enough Edwards, Benjamin George, George Lee, by a good margin and were delighted to to have our third Head Boy in succession, James Paul, George Silk and William win the overall trophy as well. Henry Rudd, whose qualities were clear to Thompson should all be very proud of all who heard him speak on Speech Day. their efforts. In the Lent term we were This year has seen an excellent Sixth Form Edmund Robinson has enthusiastically run placed top boys’ House in the Coldstream gel together well. They have led from the the House and been ably supported by Drill Cup and Tom ter Haar was once again front, showed a good level of teamwork awarded the prize for being the best Charlie Cox as his Deputy. and leadership, and the sense of ‘caller’. In the now established North Front community in the House is at an all time The Michaelmas term started well, with pancake race we were placed second and high; certainly one of the main reasons good performances in the opening the House swimming sports yielded three behind the successes we have had. Best tournament of the year. The Fifth Form, in cups for William Thompson, two individual wishes for the future and good luck to all particular, exceeded expectations and only events and one of them for the Junior those who are leaving. lost the final of the football on penalties. In boys’ relay. Music continued to go well, as fact, it looked as though second place was we had a number of successes in the Mr Barney Durrant, Housemaster

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competition. George and Hamish Huxtable joined us in the Lent term from Australia and once they had acclimatised (well almost!), immediately made a difference to our swimming team. Their Chatham presence was also much admired by us all at the very successful musical soirée, Chatham 2012 where we were able to showcase many of our very talented musicians, including the very talented William Motion. Parents and boys enjoyed a rather eclectic mix of music ranging from Tchaikovsky to Coldplay at the first of what I hope will be many similar evenings to come. Before half-term, parents also enjoyed the Chatham House Hog Roast and golf tournament, a truly British affair, not quite as Stoical as the Her Majesty the Queen and Prince Philip’s Thames River pageant ‘standathon’ but inclemently testing all © R & H Chapman Photography the same! Although the Summer term has defend. In spite of almost running away been a bit of a washout and curtailed Housemaster: Mr John Ing with the competition prior to the final much of the cricket, a number of the boys Matrons: Miss Caroline Firth, phase, ‘the ferret pull’, our small racing have made their debut for the 1st XI and Ms Kathie Oakley snake types were not quite bulky enough in a thrilling final against Grafton we lifted to pull the ferret at speed and we finished Assistant Housemaster: the Senior House cricket cup. Edward in a highly credible third position overall. Mr Ian Findlay-Palmer Wightman led the team from the front The House cross-country competition was and helped us to a memorable victory. Under Housemaster: Some fantastic results on Sports Day were Mr Benjamin Ponniah the first opportunity for the Third Form ‘new boys’ to impress. We were not made all the sweeter with an impressive Head of House: Jasper Simpkin disappointed with some outstanding new School Record in the high jump set Deputy Head of House: performances particularly by Sam Riley by Jamie Ropner of 1.63m. Our priority Felix Henderson who came in fifth overall. Rory Knight throughout the year has been one of academic excellence followed by Senior School Prefect: stole the show with an outstanding solo participation and loyalty for the House. Jasper Simpkin run and overall win in the highly competitive Intermediate age group. The I am immensely proud that the boys have, School Prefects: Felix Henderson, day after the cross-country heralded the in the spirit of ‘work hard, play hard’, Edward Wightman first of the House CCF hotly contested been good to their word. I am extremely House Prefects: Harry Bannister, competitions, the March and Shoot. grateful to the home team of Assistants Guy Dixon-Smith, Tom Merrill, Superbly organised by Frederick Wheeler and Under Housemasters, Tutors, and Joe Sutton, Josh Sutton, Nicholas the boys put a great deal of effort into Matrons. My final thank you is to Jasper Varney, Edward Wightman practising for the assault course and Simpkin (Head of House), Felix shooting, so much so that we came out Henderson (Deputy Head of House) and very worthy winners. the other house prefects for all of their The Chatham year began at a pace with invaluable hard work over this extremely our focus seemingly shifting from one Over the Michaelmas term, our House successful year. major House event to another. The House rugby teams fared very well, although we singing competition was upon us very only managed to make one plate final and Mr John Ing, Housemaster early in the Michaelmas term and ably a semi-final; all the boys played with assisted by Joshua Gentry, our expertly outstanding team spirit for the glory of arranged Queen medley (by Mr Ben Chatham. The Third Form won the House Ponniah and deemed to be one of the hockey, eventually lifting the cup after the most musical performances of the final ended 1-1 against Cobham and evening) perhaps did not extend down eventually came to a conclusion in our the entertainment route sufficiently well favour, with the excitement of penalty to win us a prize. Our part song, even flicks. Perhaps slightly less eventful, the though it featured our music legend Lent term was equally successful for us in Joshua Gentry (Lower Sixth), was I think Chatham. The Chatham Coldstream drill unlucky not to be placed in the final cup team although not quite a match for reckoning, (hey but I am biased!). Next the girls’ Houses, were the winning boys’ came the Coldstream Cup and a title to House in this increasingly high standard

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for that ‘special friend’ – as long as it doesn’t hinder his own chances! He is a sports scholar and loved by all. He will go far in life, especially after he has gained his Cobham A*AA self-predictions at A Level. Freddie Elliott – House Sport Prefect Cobham 2012 and a great character around the House, a cherished friend by all who know him. Freddie is a fantastic golfer who, having recently joined the gym, is holding his own with abdominals that many of us would kill for.

Henri Da Costa – Henri joined Stowe essentially to play rugby which he did! But at the same time he built a terrific reputation in House as someone who is relaxed and funny. Henri is a House man, © R & H Chapman Photography rarely venturing outdoors (save to eat, together, whatever the age, and it reflects learn and go to the gym) but this is why Housemaster: Mr Matthew Way that we are a close community who share Cobham loves him. each other’s successes and the trials and Matrons: Ms Helen Drake, Albadr Alhashemi – Always exemplary tribulations as well. Mrs Lynne Williams dressed, a model Stoic, awarded the Stowe Assistant Housemaster: I would like to thank our Assistant Goblet for Best Ambassador to the School. Mr Michael Rickner Housemaster, Mr Michael Rickner, our The House wouldn’t be as brilliant if he dedicated team of Tutors, Mr Peter Staples, Under Housemaster: hadn’t cared so much. Mr Simon Dobson Mr Simon Dobson and Mr James Peppiatt and our wonderful new Matron, Hugh Stevenson – Hugh is a wonderful Head of House: Sebastian Clarke Lynne Williams, all of whom serve the guy who engages you in scintillating Deputy Head of House: Cobhamites through their care and conversation about everything. His Albadr Alhashemi attention, often well beyond the call opinions are unchangeable but School Prefects: of duty. nevertheless, valued. Albadr Alhashemi, Ben Nichols, I would also like to thank the departing Michael Illingworth – Michael’s academic Sebastian Clarke Upper Sixth and I have asked this year’s scholarship meant he was best qualified House Prefects: Freddie Elliott, Head of House, Sebastian Clarke, to pen for the post of House Academic Prefect Ben Housson, Michael Illingworth a few words on each of his fellow Cobham Upper Sixth Formers. helping everyone with their work. He was also Stowe’s Athletics captain, Again trophies have been plentiful this ‘It has been one of the major pluses of my with a great mastery of the Fosbury Flop year but the success of a House is time at Stowe to share a house with these relates to his high jump technique. He is measured by much more than the sum of boys and our friendships, as is the case much loved within the House and is a its trophies. This year all the boys have with many Stoics, will last beyond the end talented musician. been proud that Cobham is considered a of this year’. Sebastian Clarke house that is ‘close’. I take that to be Stoic Edward Bethell – In his own words he’s Ben Housson – Third Form House Prefect, speak for a house that gets on well a ‘big cheese in a small pond’ and the kindest and most caring to the although he used to be a character in younger years. To most in Cobham he is the classroom he has now calmed down someone who will listen to your troubles. into a jolly but reserved Upper Sixth Finally, as I leave Stowe this summer Former. Around the House he makes to take up the post of Headmaster at everyone smile and is renowned for St Petroc’s School in Bude, I would like to giving good horse racing tips. thank my family, who have enjoyed House Ben Nichols (wing-man) – Ben deemed life with patience, dignity and warmth. himself ‘too busy’ to be made a House I wish Mr James Peppiatt, my successor, all prefect as his role as wing-man (Cupid) the very best as he takes over as Cobham has taken up a great deal of his spare Housemaster in September 2012. time. He has helped to introduce many Cobhamites to female Stoics in their quest Mr Matthew Way, Housemaster

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really hold the audience’s attention with the quality of their arguments and public speaking abilities was particularly impressive. In Music, Rex Roxburgh has achieved Grade 7 in both organ and piano Grafton playing, Henry Nelson-Lucas regularly entertained his audiences with his smooth Grafton 2012 crooning and jazz numbers and Kit Gordon-Cumming welcomed in the guests at the Sixth Form Winter Ball with his bagpipes. With over 20 boys in the House playing an instrument and participating in weekly music lessons, Grafton’s musical cupboard is certainly well stocked. The House play ‘The Musicians’ provided the opportunity for some high quality drama and the cast did not disappoint. Lucas Worsdell and William Jones (both

© R & H Chapman Photography Lower Sixth) starred in the leading roles their year groups in their academic with cameo roles from Hugh Evans, Angus Housemaster: Mr Gavin Moffat attainment and work ethic. Tyrrell, Max Robinson, Jamie Wace, Robbie Henriques, Arthur Newman and Jack Matron: Mrs Terri Bosman Sport, as always, is very high on the list of Chaplin. The audiences were thoroughly Assistant Housemaster: the boys’ priorities and the 2011-2012 year entertained and this proved to be a real Mr Alan Hughes has been a real vintage. It is a rarity to highlight of the year for me. As too was Under Housemaster: achieve the House ‘Grand Slam’ by the Coldstream Cup military competition Mr Neil Crossley simultaneously holding the House rugby, which saw the House team pouring blood, hockey, cross-country and cricket trophies Head of House: Robert Hill sweat and tears into the assault course, but the Senior boys have done absolutely military run and shoot before the tank Deputy Head of House: that. This is testament not only to their (ferret) pull at the end which was a sight Oliver Plunket, Freddie Benyon outstanding ability but just as importantly to behold and I would like to congratulate Senior School Prefects: to their organisation and desire to play for the team on their third place performance Robert Hill, Oliver Plunket each other and show the collective spirit with particular mention to Oliver Plunket required for success. Equally pleasing to School Prefects: Freddie Benyon, and his expert leading of the team. Lastly, the boys is their victory in the Senior Rory Langman it remains for me to thank the wonderful House football, rugby and waterpolo team of House Tutors who do so much in House Prefects: Rory Langman, leagues which run every week allowing guiding the boys through their Ben Rimmell, Frank Kilsby those boys who participate for enjoyment educational roller-coaster ride, Robert Hill the chance to represent the House and as an excellent Head of House and his When summing up the achievements of bring in some silverware. The House Fives Prefect team, Mr Neil Crossley (Under the House over the course of an academic trophy also sits proudly in the cabinet Housemaster) and Alan Hughes (Assistant year it is quite a challenge knowing where along with the Third and Fifth Form rugby Housemaster), Mrs Bosman as a to begin. ‘A’ for academia is no bad place cups. Away from the major sports I am wonderfully warm Matron and my own and Graftonians have continued to delighted that two Third Formers, John family who keep me sane. Glasses raised recognise the importance of academic Shin and Daniel Strutt, were awarded for a super 2011-2012. endeavour and effort as central to their their half-whips for beagling. To cap off a lives at Stowe. To see many boys achieving remarkable year of sport in Grafton, no Mr Gavin Moffat, Housemaster excellent modular results in public fewer than eight boys were selected to examinations makes all the toil and represent their county in various sports diligence worthwhile and I wish the Upper with pride of place going to Jordan Onojaife (Lower Sixth) who played rugby Sixth leavers the absolute best in their for England U17s in their victories versus future university and employment careers Scotland and France and Ben Duckett beyond the Oxford Water. Headmaster’s (also Lower Sixth) who toured India with suppers for high academic endeavour the England U17 cricket team. have been well attended by Grafton boys with particular mention going to Angus The Junior House debating team Tyrrell, Rex Roxburgh (both Fourth Form), performed admirably en route to the final Bruce An (Upper Sixth), Michael Hill and before losing a very tense and well fought Charlie Mason (both Fifth Form) all debate against Bruce. To see Charlie performing at the top or near the top of Mason, Guy Gibson and Angus Tyrrell

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coaching skills could not go unnoticed for long. He has been snapped up by Hong Kong to develop rugby in schools over there. Grenville It is also time to say goodbye to our outstanding Upper Sixth Form. Cameron Grenville 2012 Roberts has led the House magnificently, displaying a caring and responsive attitude to the younger boys as well as being a superb role model on the sports field. Alexander Hambro Rabben has been an extremely able Deputy and Matron’s right hand man throughout the year. The prefect team of Oscar Cole, Nico Gilbert, Alexander Heerema and William Prideaux have had an immense impact on the House with their strong guidance of the younger years and faultless attention to

© R & H Chapman Photography detail on duty every day and night. Paul Barker, Michael Evans, Henry Harrison, following a nail biting 2-2 draw. The Lent Harry Howard, Gideon Issa and Aaron Housemaster: Mr Andrew Murphy term saw the Juniors go far in the Rugby Volinski make up the rest of this fine body 7s tournament finishing as worthy Matron: Miss Heather Jacobs of men, and I wish them all well on their Assistant Housemaster: runners-up, a feat they equalled in chosen career paths. Mr Mark Blew basketball in the Michaelmas term. The Summer term, if you can call it that, never We have had a new addition to the Under Housemaster: quite got going but thankfully the rain did Grenville family, and in strange Mr Dan Falvey not spoil a fabulous Sports Day. Grenville circumstances we have finally admitted Head of House: Cameron Roberts at one point held the unprecedented a girl to the House. Aurora, our daughter, Deputy Head of House: honour of having the fastest boy in the has already made a big impact on the boys’ lives, and I must be certain to find Alexander Hambro Rabben School for Junior, Intermediate and Senior new employment before she becomes Senior School Prefect: level, but a steward’s inquiry (in fact long a teenager! Cameron Roberts range video footage from the ‘grassy School Prefect: knoll’) discounted our triumph and The plans for 2013 are to turn the Alexander Heerema clean sweep. Some hard graft needs to abundance of second places into firsts be applied to our field events as these and continue with the re-emergence of House Prefects: Oscar Cole, Grenville as the number one boys’ Nico Gilbert, Alexander Heerema, paled into insignificance compared to boarding House. The appointment of Will Prideaux our dominance on the track. Special mention must go to Frazer Ellis Jenkinson Hugo Brooks to the position of Head for his superb achievement of winning Boy is a real feather in his and indeed A very fine year, all in all, for the 2011/2012 Junior 100m, 200m and shot put! our Grenville cap, and I look forward to vintage of Grenvillians. The year started in starting a run of Head Boys over the next Sadly we will soon lose the services of the best possible way with a fabulous win few years all with Grenville in their hearts, Mr Mark Blew as resident Assistant for both the Senior and Junior football and Grenville Orange running through Housemaster, and his wife Gemma, teams in two exhausting competitions; their veins. who will be taking up a position of laying down an early marker for all other Mr Andy Murphy, Housemaster Houses to follow. By the end of the Housemaster, back in his native South Michaelmas term the boys had secured Africa. Mark has worked tirelessly and the highly sought after Academic salver; excelled in every area of the House, displaying our talented brains, as well as with his superb teaching and coaching of numerous sports. Mark will be greatly our sporting brawn. The Lent term saw missed by staff and boys when he departs the domination of the swimming pool by in December 2012. Grenville as we won both the Junior and Intermediate swimming competitions, and We will also be sad to bid farewell to also securing the Junior water polo cup. Mr Daniel Falvey who departs in July 2012 The Grenville Juniors delighted in beating as resident Under Housemaster and Third the Staff in their inaugural water polo Form Tutor. Daniel has breathed energy fixture, but only after a golden goal into his duties in Grenville and his sports

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Charlotte Lechmere, Florence Pearce, Polly Stuart-Mills, Daisy Anderson and Lucy Smith, accompanied by Claire Langer on guitar. Not only did they win third Lyttelton place, but they also set a great example of how all year groups can work together.

Lyttelton 2012 The House cross-country competition was another exciting event. In the Seniors, Charlotte Lechmere came in first with Pippa Farr, Octavia Trevor and Imogen Voorspuy on her heels, which was a fine moment for Lyttelton. Not to be outdone, Shona Drummond came storming in first for the Intermediates, breaking the School record set by Octavia Trevor in 2008. Katkin Farr and Edwina Longe were placed fourth and fifth. The Juniors did not win as we had a few injuries, but Jessica Burke

© R & H Chapman Photography and Polly Stuart-Mills were in the top six and they now know what to do for next If the younger girls are looking for year! Sports Day saw Edwina Longe and Housemistress: Mrs Judy Gracie excellent role models and good examples Isabella Muirhead break School records they need look no further than this year’s Matron: Mrs Olive Pohlmann and there were fabulous first places from Upper Sixth. Pippa Farr started out as Assistant Housemistress: Charlotte Lechmere in the 100m and Head of House by running the Great Miss Philippa Gleave 200m, Lara Murray in javelin, Katkin Farr Northern Run raising money for charity Under Housemistress: in 1500m and Priscilla Powell in discus and and all the girls have been working Miss Eleanor Donaldson shot put. extremely hard with superb APG grades Head of House: Pippa Farr throughout the year. Harriet Eatwell and Lauren Carley took the lead role as Deputy Head of House: Aysha Falamarzi have been offered places Lady Macbeth in the Junior Congreve and Imogen Voorspuy to study medicine and there is optimistic Elsa Desmond had a great swimming School Prefects: Pippa Farr, expectation that the entire year will get season breaking her own records and Charlotte Cook, Annabel Duthie, into their first choice of university as setting a new record in the Senior U19 Harriet Eatwell, Willa McFadden, well as some sought after art foundation Bath cup. Rosie Williamson was awarded Octavia Trevor, Imogen Voorspuy courses. They have been an outstanding rowing colours which is an outstanding year, impeccable in terms of integrity achievement for a Fourth Former. Gigi House Prefects: Leonie Hearson, Bacon was in the Senior Congreve Octavia Trevor, Hannah Maxwell and initiative. They will be greatly missed by all. performance of ‘Our Country’s Good’ where she played a very convincing We faced the Coldstream Cup head on old lady! as usual although Charlotte Lechmere, As a House, we do like to win the annual our stamina machine and CCF expert, Literary quiz but, this year, we were was injured at the last minute. However just pipped at the post by a tie breaker Pippa Farr and Octavia Trevor have five question after leading all the way. years experience each so were able to lead Our team this year was Willa Macfadden, the team of Shona Drummond, Georgia Mia Kinahan, Lucy Smith and Iona Stone, Tessa Horan, Edwina Longe, Katkin Palmer-Baunack. Farr and Maddie Wackett onwards to two substantial trophies for Drill and Ferret Towards the end of the year we had a Pulling. Honor Turner joined the team for house BBQ where all the year groups the second trophy. danced harmoniously and spontaneously. It was the embodiment of all that makes House singing was a fine event, where Lyttelton a great House; people working Willa McFadden and Hannah Maxwell together and having fun. trained up the girls to perform a melodic rendition of ‘Rock Star’ by Nickleback. Mrs Judy Gracie, Housemistress The part song (‘Kiss Me’ by Sixpence None The Richer) was beautiful featuring Harriet Eatwell, Hannah Maxwell, Gigi Bacon,

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On stage we produced yet another fantastic House play – ‘Darlings you were wonderful’ with key performances from Daisy Ussher, Alice Jackman, Hayley Sarratt, Georgia Hirst and Saskia Leboff. Nugent And of course two of our Upper Sixth Formers, Daisy Ussher and Alice Jackman Nugent 2012 performed major roles in the Senior Congreve in March. However, as wonderful as it is to win trophies and gain pleasing results, real success goes much deeper. It is about friendship, mutual respect between staff and pupils, seizing opportunities, having a sense of humour, working through a problem – it is about individuals learning to be happy with who they are! The innate working of a successful team does not come down to the work of one individual © R & H Chapman Photography and my thanks go to many who have Djan, Tavy de Ferranti, Frances Quartly; assisted with the running of the Sixth Form Housemistress: Mrs Jayne Duckett and of course the numerous students of House: first and foremost I’d like to thank Matron: Ms Marian Gallick Language, History, Politics, English, my Tutor team for their encouragement, Economics and Art History who have all left enthusiasm and unrelenting sense of Assistant Housemistress: us with 3 As at A2. professionalism; also, my House team for Miss Victoria Kinmond Throughout England at numerous Speech evening duties/helping out at social events Under Housemistress: Miss Molly Days, Headmasters and Headmistresses and lending a sympathetic ear to issues Ford, Miss Chelsea Wagner are lauding the achievements of the pupils that arise in House; my resident House Head of House: Daisy Ussher under their care. We are told of sporting team – their job has no beginning and no successes, exam results and building plans end – always a smiling face and willingness Deputy Head of House: to help out at all times. Finally, thank you Rozzy Sutcliffe that will change the shape of schools. I therefore hesitate and admit to feeling to Marian and Chelsea – the girls are School Prefects: rather uncomfortable when I say that indebted to your kindness. Alice Jackman, Chloe Stewart, Nugent has had an extraordinary year Without doubt though it is the loyalty, Daisy Ussher, Caroline Thompson, of success. determination and drive that emanates Sophie Murray House football, House badminton (doubles from the House Prefect team (Daisy House Prefects: Alice Jackman, and singles), House lacrosse, netball and Ussher, Rozzy Sutcliffe, Chloe Stewart, Chloe Stewart, Lucy Moseley, hockey, Coldstream Cup, House Song Caroline Thompson, Lucy Moseley, Emma Emma Quayle, Claudia Button, (unison), House cross-country, Sports Day Quayle, Claudia Button and Alice Caroline Thompson (we won nine of the 12 events), House Jackman). It is their desire to ‘be the best’ swimming (we won six of the seven events), that capitulates the team ethos of a tennis and House shooting have all provided successful house and Nugent has been With Nugent expanding and Junior trophies for our cabinet. lucky and selected well in the past. Former Girls becoming part of the House from Heads of House have been Emily Thornton On the academic front we have had merits September 2012, I find myself writing my (2006), Lucy Rankin (2007), Harriet galore but our top stars this year were Jaeh last report as Housemistress of the only Nicholls (2008), Julia Bevan (2009) and Elly Sambhi (38 merits), Claudia Button (34 Sixth Form House at Stowe. I am excited Parker (2010), and finally, in 2011, Daisy merits), Kierat Sambhi (30 merits) and about welcoming the younger girls to Ussher. Daisy has taken on the role with a Sophie Woodhead (29 merits). Nugent, but this change in structure to sense of maturity and natural flair for the House has led me to reflect on the Anastasiya Melnyk should also be leadership. She contributes, participates, multitude of successes of the Sixth congratulated for achieving 100% in two supports and sympathises with all (me Form House: of her January Modules (Economics and included) but has shown total commitment Maths). to the task of leading Nugent to their best Head Girls from the House have included year ever. Therefore with a hint of sadness Monika Jurcic, Rosie Gawthrop, Lucy Ellice Caldwell-Dunn and Sophie Woodhead but equally a sense of excitement, we move Jackson; Cambridge and Oxford are congratulated for the top APG scores in House. on and open our doors to the Third Form undergraduates – Caitlin Gracie and Daniella girls who will undoubtedly take on the Allard; England Sporting successes – Abby On the music front we had two winners in Nugent spirit as they help to change the Webb (Hockey), Daniella Allard (lacrosse), the Mozart Trio Prize competition (Sophie shape of Stowe for ever. Claudia Button (lacrosse); Medics – Anna Woodhead and Francesca Stevens) and Jackson, Hannah Jackman; Vets – Hetty Hill; special mention must go to Francesca who Mrs Jayne Duckett, Housemistress Scientists – Ellie Green, Katie Peters, Bea will be singing in the Olympic Choir!

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work and community service and we wish Bella Wallersteiner and Helena Lewis well for their trip to Istanbul with the help of a McElwee award. Five of the Lower Sixth Queen’s have completed the Warriors Programme in South Africa this year where in a mere five Queen’s 2012 days they go sky diving, hiking, work in an orphanage and visit animal sanctuaries. For some it proves to be a transformative experience and for all it is character building, challenging and fun. On the sports front our Intermediates (Fourth and Fifth Formers) have been particularly impressive, achieving wins in the hockey, netball, lacrosse, cross-country, tennis, athletics and a draw in the football. We were overall winners of the girls’

© R & H Chapman Photography cross-country and Sports Day and hold the much coveted golden frying pan award for Once again the girls have had a very Housemistress: the girls’ pancake race (thanks to Miss Ashe successful year and have made their Mrs Jane Hamblett-Jahn for running the staff leg!). We were presence felt in the classroom, on the particularly thrilled to beat Chandos in the Matron: Mrs Anne Reading games field and on the stage. The Upper final of the Senior Debating Competition – Assistant Housemistress: Sixth have received offers from Art School, Molly set her heart on that one in the Third Miss Lucy Ashe Drama School and a range of Russell Form – and clung on to the Academic Under Housemistress: Group Universities amongst others to read Salver in the Michaelmas term. Our Juniors Miss Hannah Knott a huge range of subjects – Anthropology, look set to fill our Sixth Formers’ shoes Chemistry, English, French, Geography, academically with many of them regularly Head of House: Emily Marchant PPE to name but a few and several have topping, some might say dominating, the Head Girl: Eloise Melville planned exciting gap years. Jess Noakes APG tables for both attainment and effort. and Emma Curley have also secured Senior School Prefects: We have also had a strong year for drama Gap Scholarships to help fund their Emily Marchant, Molly Davison, with Harriet Easdale, Emma Curley and adventuring and charity work. Sasha Milne Harriet Easdale, Jessica Noakes Harriet Goffman performing key roles in and her committee continue to raise funds School Prefects: Inca Curwen, Senior Congreve’s ‘Our Country’s Good’ for Ataxia UK, this year’s School charity – Harriet Goffman, Tabbi Owen, while Jemima Phillips starred as Judy in the their total currently stands at £17,000. Yemurai Soper-Gwatidzo, Fifth Form production of ‘Too Much Punch Madeleine Webb The Upper Sixth have been with us for for Judy’, supported by Caroline five years – they were our first intake Schaufelberger as her sister, Jo, and House Prefects: Harriet Easdale, and so our farewells are tinged with an co-directed by Harriet Stringer. Queen’s Tabbi Owen, Harriet Deakin, extra hint of sadness. They have worked also staged a production of Sue Townsend’s Charlotte Philips, Yem Soper- and played hard and we have embraced ‘Bazaar and Rummage’ which, ably directed Gwatidzo, Emma Curley, and encouraged their quirkiness and by Harriet Goffman and Emma Curley, Harriet Goffman, Georgina Pilleau, individuality and will miss their saw fine performances from Rebecca Dale, Madeleine Webb contribution to school life for a whole host Harriet Easdale, Maddie Webb, Siana of reasons. They break into our winning Vere-Nicoll and Issy Berner. Ten of our House song (2010), ‘I wish I was a punk Third and Fourth Formers performed rocker’ at the slightest provocation, recite in the Junior Congreve, ‘Macbeth’ and chunks of Harry Potter and can devour we’ve enjoyed impressive performances their own bodyweight in pasta! They are a from Jemima and Siana at ‘Unplugged’ and very close-knit group who will, I’m sure, the ‘Ataxia Fair’. retain and nurture the special friendships It is all this, alongside Economics revision they have built during their time in sessions in the House Room, fitness groups Queen’s for years to come. with Miss Knott, aerobics and ballet classes with Miss Ashe, Maitch baiting and Freckles A number of Queen’s girls were up on walking that make Queen’s a special place stage on Speech Day to collect prizes for to be. overall academic achievement, Economics, Politics, French, Drama, ICT, charitable Mrs Jane Hamblett-Jahn, Housemistress

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dearly in treats, but it has been worth every penny! Special congratulations go to Rebecca Wild and Shannon Devlin who have achieved all As and 4s in their APG reports. Rebecca also achieved an A* in her Stanhope Maths GCSE, sitting the exam earlier than normal at this level. Stanhope 2012 We have also excelled in music. Chloe Last led us to victory in the Part Song competition when her skilful arrangement of ‘Skinny Love’ was beautifully performed by herself, Clara Holden, Coco Anthony, Jahnai Hall, Alice Speakman, Philippa Stacey, Olivia Walters, Phoebe Harris, Molly Suthers and Theodora Briggs. Second place in the Unison gave us top billing overall in the House singing competition. We also congratulate Jahnai Hall and Anastasia Beck © R & H Chapman Photography for winning the McElwee music award, and during Julie’s absence; our good wishes we look forward to hearing about their Housemistress: Mrs Sue Harmon go with her as she takes up her new post at summer trip to Venice. Summer Fields Preparatory School. Lynn Matrons: Ms Sandra Hewlett, Tamara Rowan-Hamilton once again Smith, our new matron, is a welcome Mrs Lynn Smith achieved first place for ‘best caller’ in the addition to the House, and is working hard Assistant Housemistress: CCF Drill competition. We were again to create a happy, warm and nurturing runners-up overall as a squad, with our Mrs Julie Johnson environment. Mrs Elena Hughes is our new precision marching and saluting, knocking Under Housemistress: and very popular Fourth Form tutor and the socks off the Boys’ Houses! Well done Miss Sophie Palmer Sharon Carter, our experienced Fifth Form Sophie Merrell, Louisa Gibbs, Stephanie Head of House: Emma Harvey tutor, provides continuity and stability. Our team of cleaning ladies keep the house in Robinson, Lettice Spooner, Ellie Pinnock, Deputy Head of House: Maud pristine condition, and we wish Angela a Lucy Horan, Shannon Devlin and Rosie Gudmundsen, Phoebe Harris speedy recovery and look forward to Devas. Tamara Rowan-Hamilton and Ellie School Prefects: Maud welcoming her back next term. Pinnock have been selected to participate Gudmundsen, Alexia Ogden in the Warriors International Scholarship There has been much to celebrate House Prefects: Alexia Ogden, Programme in South Africa, designed to throughout the year. Our Third Formers develop self-awareness and self-belief Tessa Stephenson, Gabby Thomas, wasted no time in putting themselves on Anastasia Kozina, Silviya Nenkova through a series of challenges and activities the map with a string of House including sky-diving, bush navigation and competition wins in basketball, dodgeball, working in an orphanage. “To improve is to change; to be perfect netball, badminton and swimming. Special mention goes to Jemima Grant for coming Congratulations to Ella May Sangster, Louisa My experience at Stowe by Thabile Ntshingila is to change often” Winston S. Churchill first overall in the Junior girls’ cross- Gibbs, Sophie Merrell and Chloe Last for Being given the opportunity to come to Stowe has really Stanhope has certainly seen many changes country and, together with Jemima being selected as School Prefects and to taught me a lot and given me the best experience of my life. in this, my first year. Mrs Julie Johnson has Fitzjohn, Anna Fox and Millie Bromley- Ellie Pinnock who will be a Senior Prefect Firstly, I have learnt to talk to people and make lots of friends returned from maternity leave, and we Davenport for their commitment to House next year. This original group of Third Form in and out of Stanhope House. Having only moved schools congratulate her and Roland on the birth events. Sunday after Sunday they have Stanhopians have blossomed into true twice, I am not really used to meeting lots of new people, so of their son, Edward. Many thanks to given their all in closely fought battles, ambassadors and from their humble that was a bit of a challenge for me. Another really challenging Miss Sophie Palmer for her hard work arriving exhausted back in house for a beginnings, based in the Medical Centre factor when coming here is being so far away from home, well-deserved pizza evening. Lucy Horan, prior to Stanhope’s completion, have made being a boarder in South Africa, I’m used to not being home Megan Duckett, and Ellie Pinnock swam Stanhope a House to be truly proud of. all the time but being so far away does have an impact on well in their individual heats, winning more It has been a delight to work in an homesickness. It has taught me to be more independent cups to adorn our shelves, with Megan environment of such beauty, and to be because I’m able to make decisions on my own more often achieving a new backstroke record. Lucy cloaked in the warmth, generosity and and not rely on calling home every time I have a problem, and also performed outstandingly, winning the kindness of the girls and staff; my thanks go the girls in Stanhope were really helpful in helping me settle in Intermediate 200m, having been narrowly to you all for a wonderful year. Finally, I wish and that on its own really made it much more fun and beaten in the 100m. enjoyable to be at Stowe. In conclusion, my year at Stowe has my trusty Upper Sixth Formers a successful been an absolutely phenomenal experience, I have had a Stanhope won the prestigious and much life beyond Stowe; may all your dreams wonderful year and I am sad to leave all the great friends I’ve sought-after Academic Salver after a closely come true – you certainly deserve it. made behind, as well as all the staff that have been really great fought battle with Queen’s. Merits, throughout the year. Commendations and Benes have cost me Mrs Sue Harmon, Housemistress

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for everyone around them that I hope to engender in the boys. All of the Prefects have done a great job of leading the House and I am particularly indebted to them for their consistent good humour and their Temple helpful (and tactful) advice over the course of the year. Temple 2012 Along the same lines, I must mention my superb House team of Mrs Pam Dennison, Mr Gwilym Jones, Mr Tony Chan, Mr Phil Arnold, Mr Will Hearne, Mr Tony McDaid and Mr Huw Jones whose ceaseless dedication and care are essential in helping to provide a safe and happy environment within which the boys can flourish. We are sad to be saying goodbye to Mr Tony McDaid and Mr Huw Jones from the House © R & H Chapman Photography team. Tony is becoming a Sixth Form Tutor competitions, although I am pleased of and Huw is moving on to run the Music Housemaster: course that we achieved a net gain in Department at Merchant Taylors’ School. Mr Anthony Macpherson silverware. More special have been the Will Hearne is moving into the resident’s flat over the summer and will take up the Matron: Mrs Pamela Dennison occasions where I felt that our sense of House spirit was strengthened; the role of Under Housemaster and Third Assistant Housemaster: Coldstream Cup was definitely one such Form Tutor from September 2012. Will is a Mr Gwilym Jones full-time hockey coach but he has many occasion. Watching the boys cheering on other strings to his bow and the boys Under Housemaster: our team during the notorious ferret pull will enjoy and benefit from his enthusiasm Mr Huw Jones on the South Front provided a wonderful for the House and the energy and Head of House: Arthur Hobhouse endorsement of the benefits, and commitment that he gives to everything sometimes the eccentricities, of inter- Deputy Head of House: he does. Ben Wackett, Chima Ngerem house rivalry. Likewise, our camaraderie was very evident at the House singing and Life at Stowe is fantastically busy and it is School Prefects: if only we had sung ‘Don’t look back in often hard to find the time to stand back Arthur Hobhouse, Chima Ngerem, anger’ as lustily in the competition as we and view the whole picture. The end of Ben Wackett did when it was reprised at the Christmas the year provides an opportunity for this House Prefects: Dinner (another great occasion), I am sure and whilst I cannot possibly do justice here Freddie Rowan-Hamilton, we would have featured among the to the many individual and group Ned Rodger, James Clark medals. The ‘At Home’ was an opportunity achievements that Temple can boast, to showcase some of the more refined I hope to have given a sense of the musical talents in House and we also heard strength of our community, which is Sitting down to write this report provides Najib’s moving account of his journey from probably what I am proudest to report. a welcome opportunity to stop and reflect Helmand to Stowe, which gave all of us On a personal note, I am very pleased to on just how much has happened in Temple plenty to reflect on and be grateful for. announce that Temple will welcome its during the past three terms. It seems a newest and youngest member of the strange paradox that the year has flashed Our victories in a number of the House House some time in mid-October. We past but, at the same time, life before Stowe competitions have certainly been welcome don’t know yet if it will be a “pink baby” now seems a distant memory. Either way, my and have ensured that the new trophy or a “blue baby” but either way, it will have first year as a Housemaster has been busy cabinet has remained well-stocked. no choice but to dress in Temple green! and it has certainly been enjoyable. I am Swimming, Senior basketball, tennis and Mr Anthony Macpherson, Housemaster proud of the many things that the boys have cricket leagues were the sporting wins but accomplished and the way that they have we also received the Academic Salver for taken this transition year in their stride. the best APG averages, showing that the The warmth of welcome that Caroline and boys have been working hard as well as playing hard. It is perhaps not a total I have received from colleagues, the boys coincidence that the outgoing Head of and their parents has been beyond what we House (Arthur Hobhouse) and the could have hoped for, so to everyone who incoming Head of House (Harry Warden) has helped us to settle into life at Stowe, were major contributors to all four of our our heart-felt thanks. sporting wins. Both of them serve to The highlights of the year for me are not exemplify not only the commitment to the necessarily the victories in House House but also the respect and tolerance

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boys’ cross-country and the Senior boys’ 1500m on Sports Day. Another Sports Day victor was Thomas Abbot-Davies who won the Intermediate boys’ high jump with a very impressive display of jumping. Head Walpole of House, Benjamin Paine, picked up a Walpole 2012 third place award in the Senior boys’ discus. The pick of the individual performances however has to go to James Rudkin who has secured a place in the Great Britain Junior rowing squad; James is a superb athlete and has worked so incredibly hard for what he has already achieved and we are sure there is lots more still to come from him. It was an honour to see him awarded the Colin Shillington cup for outstanding sporting achievement on Speech Day. © R & H Chapman Photography Another aspect of House life which we are Yet again this year, Walpole boys were very proud of is our singing. Not only are Housemaster: Mr Peter Last excellent in their preparation and we, week in and week out, the best singing Matron: Mrs Terry Sanders determination to regain the Coldstream House in school Chapel services, but we Cup. The team of Edward Pettifer, Pierre Assistant Housemaster: also did superbly well in the House Singing Scrase, Benjamin Paine, Archie Walters, Mr Kevin Ryce competition. Our unison effort ‘I would Joshua Dickinson, George Barham, walk 500 miles’ by The Proclaimers earnt Under Housemaster: Orlando Whitehead and Alexander us second place in the boys’ category Mr Tom Higham Levett-Scrivener were superb and brought (possibly due to Alfie Marsden-Smedley’s Head of House: Benjamin Paine this prestigious trophy, one of the most back flip to introduce it) and our part song Deputy Head of House: hotly contested House trophies at Stowe, ‘Fall Down’ was awarded third place. What Roddy Blackburne back to the Walpole Common Room. was even more impressive about our part School Prefects: James Rudkin, On the sporting front, we have not always song was that it was written specially for James Blackburne had the strength in depth that some other the House singing competition by Otto Balfour, who also led the performance on House Prefects: Rowan Brogden, Houses have had this year but we have his guitar. Alexander McQuitty has also Archie Walters, Ed Pettifer, never entered an event which we were not trying to win. Our Third Form led the way twice led the whole school in Chapel by Hugo Barran playing the hymn on the school organ; a this year with a superb victory in the Junior most impressive feat for a Third Form boy. basketball, usefully aided by having the Our Junior and Senior debating teams did tallest Third Form boy – Seun Coker! They very well this year, both reaching the also won both the rugby and hockey plate semi-final stage before eventually losing finals and House dodgeball! The Senior out to stronger teams. However, those rugby team got to the plate final where who took part gained valuable experience they lost to Grenville. Three of our golfers in public speaking and debating which have played regularly for the School and in bodes well for the future! one fixture this year half of the Senior school team was made up of Walpudlians On top of all of this the boys have in the form of Joshua Choi, Ben Jenkins continued to apply themselves to their and George Tucker. Edward Pettifer and academic work and have worked hard Roddy Blackburne were simply amazing in (most of them have anyway). Having seen the Senior boys’ swimming event and they last year’s leavers all safely into their also led our water polo team to a very chosen courses or careers we are hoping impressive second place in the leagues. for a similar result from this year’s leavers. Overall, we would have to say that in terms The Walpole Cup for best overall of team sports, this was a fairly “lean” year contribution to the Third Form is awarded for us, but we will be back even stronger this year to Seun Coker and the Walpudlian next year. Trophy for best all round contribution to We have seen some outstanding individual the House goes to Roddy Blackburne. performances, including the delight of watching Joshua Dickinson win the Senior Mr Pete Last, Housemaster

60 The Stoic The Stoic 61 Feature Feature

62 The Stoic The Stoic 63 Creative Writing Gallery

26th December 1932

Another normal day in Appleby. Nothing of note. I fetched the last hay I could from the barn but most had been buried. The ice is setting in now and so is the flu. I couldn’t see the church from the top of Market Hill today. It was driving it down pretty hard and I wondered if it would have mattered if I’d never come back. If I just lay down – beaten into submission by time and age. Every day when I look in the glass, I see an 18 year-old peering out at me. He’s unable to comprehend how I can drift so aimlessly. It’s true. I’ve achieved nothing. I’m only 29 but I feel decrepit. This town is dead, the people dying... and most of the sheep as well. I never saw that 18 year-old’s gravestone but I often wonder what will go on mine. There’s no use in thinking about it. Just another normal day in Appleby. It’s Tommy’s birthday today. He would’ve been 35. But he died on the Somme in 1916. He hadn’t even hit 19. Mum and Dad loved him. I did too. My big bro. Tom and I were thick as thieves and he never took advantage of the six years he had on me. He was the apple of all our eyes, the bastard. We were so proud when he enlisted. Dad was too old but said he was doing the family an honour. Mum said he became a man after he’d seen the old recruitment officer. But I was just a boy. He began to go off training and Mum would sit up every night by the fire, knitting socks. Then he came back for the last time. We had a lovely weekend but my heart wasn’t in it. All the neighbours making a fuss of him and packing him off with bars of chocolate and cigarettes. He didn’t even like them. I Harriet Farr, Upper Sixth was the last one he spoke to before he got on the bus. He stooped down and looked me in the eye. Told me I was doing a “heroic job” working on the farm and to look after Mum, and promised to write when he could. He hugged me and said I’d never leave him. God, I wish every waiting hour that I hadn’t! Mum said that was the day she lost her boys. The letter came through nine months later. Mum was hysterical – and Dad; well he just sat in the kitchen. I walked about the farm. That year was the coldest winter I’ve known and Mum didn’t last long. Then Dad left pretty soon after. Every day since I’ve been frozen in my hellish reverie. Nothing has changed: we’re all just a bit older. They say there’s a boom in the capital. Most of the young have run off to find their fortunes. I guess Tommy did that too. But this is the free Britain. New Britain. Defiant Britain. Free Britain. Well I wish the Hun would have another crack. What more is there for the likes of me? What defining moment? I dream of being shelled by Nazis. Up to my neck in thick mud and a lice-infested head. How could Tommy have been so selfish? To take all the glory and leave me nothing. How I pray for Armageddon to come. To be there beside George and Fred with the bombs in our ears till we can hear no more and the mud in our eyes till we can see no more and the bullets in our skulls till we can think no more but know only that we are free and time was on our side and we were together. But Tommy took my dream. He left me behind. We loved each other but we were just boys.

Orlando Whitehead, Lower Sixth

Alexander Miarli, Upper Sixth

64 The Stoic The Stoic 65 Clubs & Societies Clubs & Societies

trip the British Museum to see the Hajj Exhibition. The XX Group The XX group have been heavily involved in community work both at Stowe and in Biomedical Society The XX group this year has consisted of 15 members, seven female and the wider community. They have seen eight male, across eight Houses. The Third Form members were chosen plays put on by the Stowe Drama students This academic year has seen unprecedented success by the Dr Harriet Branford-White, who gave us a based on their Common Entrance scores, CAT scores, October APG as well as external companies coming in. Upper Sixth Form members of the Biomedical Society, who spectacular (if slightly gory!) insight into The group has played a vital role in the world of a practising surgeon. The results and recommendations from Housemasters/mistresses and Third looking after and entertaining prospective have set a real challenge for the current Lower Sixth Formers Biomedical lecture calendar was rounded Form tutors. Academic Scholars gained immediate entry into the group. Roxburgh and Academic scholars. They who will follow them. off in style by Sarah Norcross of the also went to a local primary school – Progress Educational Trust who spoke The Biomedical Society was very proud This year members of the Biomedical The XX group meets once a week on a or not there were situations when the ‘St James and St John’ on World Book Day eloquently on the ethics of assisted to be able to celebrate a 100% success Society enjoyed the usual cut-and-thrust Thursday for an hour. The aim of the Death Penalty should be applied. We have and read a passage of their favourite conception and mitochondrial transfer. rate for applications to Medicine and of medical and ethical debate in our group this year is to provide academic also discussed ‘What it is to be a teenager childhood book and partook in a Q&A Veterinary Science. As well as the medics, weekly meetings, covering topics such as Next year’s programme promises yet extension to the brightest and most growing up in the 21st Century.’ As a session to small groups of pupils. our members have also succeeded the psychology of fear and the treatment more inspiration for our burgeoning inquisitive minds in the Third Form. It is group we watched and analysed the film The focus of the Summer term was on in winning places to study a number of appendicitis. As well as our annual trip biomedical scientists. The inaugural hoped that this group of students will go The Elephant Man, looking at how we their individual projects which they of biomedical, biochemical, biological to visit the Oxford University School of Biomedical Dinner is planned for the onto form the foundations for Oxbridge ‘should not judge a book by its cover’ and researched independently and presented 19 October, which will be combined with and chemical places at top-ranking Medical Sciences, this year the Biomedical entries when they enter the Sixth Form. the power of building loving, caring to the whole school in the Marble Hall. a special guest lecture by Dr Janet Dawson universities. Society hosted some fascinating and This year’s XX group has sought to relationships. In addition to these, they This was a hotly contested competition entitled “Bringing Medicines to Market”. diverse external speakers. The first of develop the pupils’ intellectual abilities group partook in a ‘Philosophy for and each member goes to great lengths to Our four successful medics were Ellice these was Old Stoic Professor Paul Nelson, As ever, the Biomedical Society looks by furthering themselves culturally, Children’ session run by Mr Dominic find a unique and interesting topic which Caldwell-Dunn (this year’s President of the Biomedical Society), Franklin who gave an in-depth talk on Human forward to welcoming the next wave of philosophically and cognitively through Mochan and have been challenged with can give them the best chance of catching Johnson, Harriet Eatwell and Aysha Endogenous Retroviruses. This talk was a young medic, vet and biomedical hopefuls the medium of visual and audio education ‘MENSA’ and logical puzzles. the eye of the Headmaster, Deputy in the coming academic year. With the Headmaster (Academic) and Senior Tutor Falamarzi. Emma Saric was our only vet must-see for all those students interested with a focus on reading, music and film. success of those moving through our In addition to the weekly meetings the as they walked around interacting and applicant this year, and it was a huge in biomolecular sciences and was a ranks, new members will have a lot to Within the hourly meetings we have XX group has had the good fortune of judging the competition. pleasure to be able to celebrate her fantastic introduction to the world of looked at Kafka’s Penal Colony which each going on some extra trips. This year we success in winning a place at the Royal academic scientific research. Our second live up to! The group has been engaged, motivated member was asked to read. This led us have visited the Bank of England which Veterinary College. speaker of the Michaelmas term was Mr Roland Johnson and enthusiastic in their academic into a discussion on the merits of Capital included a detailed talk from a member extension and I hope that they will Punishment focusing on China’s record of of the Bank as well as work to do whilst continue to read widely and enjoy the and application of the Death Penalty. there. They attended the Houses of process of learning something new. This branched off into Terrorism and the Parliament for a guided tour and most specifically the ‘War of Terror’ and whether recently they joined in with a GCSE RS Mr Mic´hael Rickner Left to right: Jonathan Peverley, Nico Gilbert, Professor Paul Nelson, Mervin, Ellice Caldwell-Dunn, Franklin Johnson, Michael Illingworth

Capurro, Edmund Robinson and Henry noted how impressed they had been by Inter-House Rudd took on Queen’s girls Molly Davison, the level of debate and sophistication of Emily Marchant and Madeleine Webb over the arguments from both teams over what the final motion, ‘This house believes the was a difficult and demanding motion. In Debating social benefits of cheap flight greatly the end, the trophy was awarded to Bruce outweigh the social costs’. After a closely for their added panache at the podium. fought debate demonstrating serious Inter-House Debating was a Having taken over responsibility for research, deep thinking, and quick wits great success in the 2011-12 Debating from Mrs Julie Johnson part way from both teams, the Headmaster and School year. The Senior School through the Michaelmas term I have been Deputy Head (Academic) awarded the debates took place in the impressed by the calibre of Stoic debaters. winners’ trophy to the Queen’s team. Michaelmas term, during which The task of organising debates was made Stoics debated weighty social Junior School debating took place in the infinitely easier and more pleasurable through the tireless support and advice of issue topics ranging from Lent term and the judges all commented on the exceptionally high calibre of debate colleagues Mrs Liz Capurro, Mr Tony Chan ‘performance enhancing from Fourth and Fifth Formers. In the and Mrs Clare Hill Hall, who volunteered drugs should be allowed in final, Bruce boys William Pepera, Hugo their time as judges and debate chairs, sport’ to ‘the social benefits Ellison, and Alec Pultr took on Grafton’s Mrs Julie Johnson who was a constant of cheap flight greatly outweigh Guy Gibson, Charlie Mason and Angus source of advice, and Upper Sixth Formers the social costs’. Tyrrell over the controversial motion, Daniel Capurro and Molly Davison, ‘This House believes that education is an who took turns chairing the Junior After a tight series of debates in the end in itself’. Back in their judging role, School debates. quarter-finals, Chandos boys Daniel Dr Wallersteiner and Mr Robinson both Dr James Panton

66 The Stoic The Stoic 67 Clubs & Societies Clubs & Societies Current Affairs and Business Studies International Relations The Business Studies Department started the new academic term with the launch of the Business Society in September which targeted students in the top academic sets. This gave This activity is an option within the School’s activities programme depths of opposing arguments and just occasionally, to leave a that attracts pupils with an interest in current affairs. Encouraging session questioning whether or not they need to rethink their students an opportunity to research and discuss topical business issues. A number of students Stoics to explore the political and social world around them, it stance on an issue. Independence of thought, respect for an were given topics which ranged from the eurozone crisis, global recession and the banking allows them to develop key skills in research, debating and critical opposing view, coupled with an appreciation of group dynamics, collapse and they successfully completed mini presentations to their peers. This was a good thinking. Most weeks see very lively debates as the Stoics explore are core values of the group and it is always a pleasure to observe opportunity for students to spend more time tackling more complex topical business issues the group as they learn to work on these principles. a variety of topics. They have the opportunity not only to research and for students to improve their awareness and knowledge of current business issues. and examine topics that interest them, but also to discover the Mrs Liz Huxley Capurro

In September we were invited to lead a receiving a number of business awards In May the XX club visited the Business business simulation at Beachborough and securing invaluable media attention. Studies Department and enjoyed taking Prep school where Mr John and Mr Blew Other speakers spoke on international part in a Business simulation by producing led a business group activity for a group of development, property development and a new chocolate bar. This involved each Year 7-8. This involved them designing a the role of an advertising agency. group designing and formulating a new cereal and producing a marketing marketing plan for their new product and strategy. The pupils were very enthusiastic Business Studies students worked very presenting their findings. The students and produced some innovative and hard during the Autumn term in were very responsive and enjoyed gaining engaging new ideas. We plan to develop prepartion for their January modules. an insight of a new subject. We hope some this partnership next year. In December Helen Coupland who has a of these budding entrepreneurs will wealth of experience as a Senior examiner choose to study Business Studies in the Throughout the Autumn and Spring terms came to Stowe and led training sessions to Sixth Form! six outside speakers were invited to both the Lower and Upper Sixth. Students address the Business Studies students on gained invaluable insight from the chief In June the Lower Sixth students visited a range of topics. This included a number examiner’s perspective and Helen the Mini factory at Cowley and were of small entrepreneurs who spoke about provided useful strategies to help students impressed with the degree of the challenges of setting up their target the top grades. There were some customisation and lean production respective businesses and offering advice excellent exam results in January both at methods at the plant. In 2013 there will to budding Business Studies students. AS and at A2 but the unit 3 module results be an organised trip to New York and Charlie Beldam (Temple 05) an Old Stoic were particularly impressive. 69% of the Washington. has recently set up Cotswold Gold and the students achieved grade A-B with 97% Mr Panos John Left: Victor Khaprov (Upper Sixth, Chandos), Albadr Alhashemi (Upper Sixth, Cobham), students were captivated by his enthusiasm gaining A-C. These results have provided a Edward Bensted (Lower Sixth, Cobham) and enjoyed sampling his salad dressings! firm foundation for all our A level students It is particularly rewarding to see an old to achieve excellent results in their as we know it. I gave a valiant House criteria. Discussions of one topic Business Studies student doing so well and terminal exams in June. effort to get Mrs Capurro to often lead to others such as just how far accept my friend request but fell one can go to support and believe in short as I wasn’t ‘cool’ enough! one’s religion whilst remaining extroverts.

Other topics we have covered No issue is too controversial or disputable are the issue of Sexual Morality within the to be put on the agenda for Current This year we looked at a vast spectrum of public domain, focusing on the ideologies Affairs. I am proud to say that we have an issues. A particularly pleasing aspect of of what should be and is accepted as right optimal group of people, who generate the topics chosen was their relevance to or wrong. In addition we have looked at simply intriguing discussions. It would recent world events. The prospect of new the topic of democracy, discussing the be easy to say we are an outspoken and republics expropriating and seizing the merits of a wide range of democracies and blunt bunch as we don’t sit on the throne, such as Libya, led to animated taking the time to determine whether fence and are encouraged to voice our discussions and I thoroughly enjoy them. countries such as Russia, India, Great opinions (should they not be too drastic We all have the opportunity to present Britain and the USA are fair and equitable that is) whilst learning to appreciate topics. Last term Ben Wild’s topic of democracies in terms of various civil that there will always be others with “Facebook” led to discussions on social liberties being allowed or disallowed and opposing views. networking and how it is affecting society ranking them according to the Freedom Edward Bensted (Lower Sixth, Cobham)

68 The Stoic The Stoic 69 Clubs & Societies Clubs & Societies

consistently delivering superb cuisine. The students have been overwhelmingly grateful for the combined efforts that have been put into the formulation of Pitt Society such events. Often members of the society have This year has seen the further development of the Pitt Society, which expressed their thanks by contributing has proved to be the focal point of extra-curricular activity in history. themselves, be it sharing an area of history they are particularly fond of, Hosting guests of historical notoriety, The society has also been privileged or by extending invitations to guests to the members of the group have enjoyed enough to host the likes of Sir Howard present to the group. Notably Daniel benefiting from personal exposure to Stringer, who gave a fascinating talk of Capurro successfully delivered an the scholars behind the historiography his own experiences in the Vietnam War. interesting overview of the Spanish assessed within the A level course. Sir Howard Stringer’s personal insights Revolution. Wilhelmina McFadden and Susan Doran’s discursive seminar was proved to be thoroughly entertaining, Frederick Benyon also produced an of particular note, illuminating the as his charismatic talk brought to life the equally commendable presentation on overwhelming subjectivity surrounding recollection of the process in which he North Korea. Andrew Rudolf, former the debate on royal power during found himself drafted into the United Head of History at Stowe, was invited to Edward VI’s brief rule. With access to States Army upon emigration. speak by one of the society members and such individuals, the society has proved his account on Charles II was thoroughly Many of the enriching talks have been to supplement the groundwork enjoyed, offering a useful context behind followed by thoroughly enjoyable dinners, sufficiently for the summer exams. the unilateral rule of James I. Overall where students have had an opportunity As well as contributing to academic the Pitt Society has been overwhelmingly to meet the speakers in a more relaxed preparation, the array of stimulating talks successful and will undoubtedly atmosphere. The Thanksgiving evening given has exposed history as a more continue to attract the keen intrigue of stands out as a particular highlight and it vibrant subject, often misrepresented history students. must be said that the Stowe catering Literary Society by dense, inaccessible texts. department have not faulted in Henry Stockdale (Bruce, Upper Sixth) This was a vintage year Later in November, we welcomed Professor ranged from Coleridge’s precocious Gordon Campbell of Leicester University, childhood to his struggles with for the Stowe School who gave an inspiring talk on “The King bereavement and opium addiction. James Bible: Language and Literature” in its The seminars were extremely beneficial Literary Society, with centenary year. Professor Campbell’s analysis in addressing contextual issues relevant to some particularly on the political and literary contexts relevant the English Literature A2 examination. to the Authorised Version made his speech In March, we were honoured to welcome memorable papers particularly diverse and entertaining. the prominent academic Professor Jonathan and readings. In January 2012, Niall O’Sullivan gave Bate, Provost of Worcester College Oxford readings of his “Sarf London gritty but and Associate of the Royal Shakespeare humorous fry-up verse”, comically Company. Presenting an enthralling paper At the first meeting on 14 October 2011, presenting poems that fused popular entitled “Shakespeare: Staging the World”, Dr Mike Woolf, the deputy president of culture and his personal experience of Professor Bate offered insights into CAPA International Education, discussed living in London. Shakespeare’s works using objects from the the plays and film-scripts of David Mamet. In February, the eminent poet Simon forthcoming British Museum exhibition The majority of the members of the Armitage gave the annual Tattersall-Wright which he co-curated and which will be part Literary Society had already studied of Britain’s Cultural Olympiad (19 July – 25 Oxford Society poetry recital. Confirming his reputation as Mamet’s play Oleanna, which was the a dry-humoured and outspoken author, he November). prime subject of the talk. Dr Woolf insights All students benefit enormously from a “Wuthering Heights” – the desperately much too large for the screen read a diverse range of his works from witty To conclude the year’s programme, a week broad, extra-curricular appreciation of the bleak new film with a black Heathcliff empowerment of the silent era of movies; into the playwright’s key themes and sonnets to a poignant narrative of what is before Speech Day, there was a gala dinner arts and for Sixth Formers in particular it exposing the underlying and often and our famous Wallingford (“South dramatic methods were especially valuable. often considered a “taboo” subject for verse: for the Literary Society leavers, with can help them shine in essays and at overlooked racist theme to Bronte’s novel; Oxford, really”) viewing of “The Ides of the 9/11 tragedy. Lucky Stoics from the In early November, Christopher Reid, home-grown entertainments including interview. In its inaugural year the Oxford “The Iron Lady” – Meryl Streep’s sensitive, March” – Clooney’s tale of political Fourth Form to the Sixth Form were able winner of the 2009 Costa Book Prize, read scenes from drama, recitations, songs and a Society ran a variety of trips to Oxford and exquisite portrayal of Thatcher set against strategy and turpitude (if they are to dine with the poet beforehand and all a selection of his works to the Society. brief learned paper from the Committee. its environs to expose the cognoscenti of both a very vibrant younger self in different!). Many thanks to our chair and attending could obtain signed copies of his The extracts from A Scattering, a volume The official photograph showing the Stoics the student body to an eclectic range of flashback (Alexandra Roach – a name to treasurer, Emma Curley and Yem Soper- poems after his recital. of poems written as a tribute to his late wife, in their finery conveys something of the plays and films, including: From watch out for), and, fascinatingly, against Gwatidzo, and to everyone who made were particularly moving. During question- Later in the month, Mr Robin Whittaker joyous spirit of a memorable conclusion to “Earthquakes in London” – a new play, the 30th anniversary of the Falklands – this the rich, stimulating Sixth Form time, Mr Reid considered the stages of (retired County Archivist of Worcestershire) two years of study in the English dynamically staged and focused on the this was a film which provoked intense society it has become. Opera is next up! research, the need to find the correct visited Stowe to give seminars about the life Department at Stowe. perils of climate change; to “’Tis Pity She’s political debate amongst students too Mr Bob Roberts and Mr Simon Gabbatiss tone and the influence of other writers of Samuel Taylor Coleridge to two Upper Imran Momen, Lucy Moseley, Tabbi Owen A Whore” – a superbly exciting, modern young to have known Thatcher in the on his works. Sixth classes. Mr Whittaker’s references (Lit. Soc. Committee, 2011-12) rendition of the Jacobean masterpiece; flesh; “The Artist” – that wonderful and

70 The Stoic The Stoic 71 Clubs & Societies Clubs & Societies

Durrell Society

Durrell Trust Support Group order to help fund a small group visit to Trip to the Durrell Trust, Jersey, Mountain Chicken frog (named sadly for the Trust, where Jack Walker-Payne, its edibility!) from certain extinction by Every Monday afternoon this year saw a Channel Islands, 27-29 June 2012 Claudia Wace, Tilda Bevan and Felix the deadly Chytrid fungus, and rescued meeting of a small dedicated number of Spooner will receive behind-the-scenes, To cap a year in which £2,700 was raised the beautiful Madagascan Pochard duck Stoics from across the year groups, hands-on training in Conservation for the Durrell Trust, four members of the from a tragic situation where the last working for the Durrell Trust on Jersey. Science – a course usually reserved for Stowe support group were lucky enough remaining adults had fled to a remote lake to visit the Trust in its home grounds on Durrell (set up by Gerald Durrell of “My much older students. An ongoing project too deep for the ducklings to feed from Jersey – a wildlife park with a difference. Family and Other Animals” fame) is a zoo is to re-introduce Durrell’s popular story the bottom. In addition we handled and As well as being perhaps the most ethical with a difference – it primarily exists to “My Family and Other Animals” to schools fed a variety of entertaining creepy wildlife park in existence, Durrell operates breed endangered species for re- across the land, and get it back onto the crawlies and reptiles, including a four inch a conservation programme of 45 projects introduction to the wild. Early in the year GCSE syllabus – so if any Stoic or parent cockroach and a skink called Samson. in 15 countries, and runs international the Support Group ran a campaign to get has any contacts with the DfE or exam We made up enrichment food parcels training courses in Conservation Science. boarding houses to “adopt” an animal, boards, please get in touch! My thanks to consisting of porridge stuffed into Jack Walker-Payne, Tilda Bevan, Claudia and what an enormous, generous the Stowe student body for their bamboo which was then bound with leaf Wace and Felix Spooner were lucky response the Stoics gave, £1,512 being generosity towards this cause, and in fibre, and watched them being fed to the enough to be given a two-day beginners’ raised through this initiative alone. particular to, other than those already gorillas. We had a behind-the-scenes tour course by Naomi Webster, the Trust’s Throughout the year the Support Group mentioned, Louis de Montfort, Aliénor of the Trust, and were lucky enough to Education Officer. The ethics, challenges sold doughnuts and managed collecting d’Arenberg, Nick Berenguer, Jacques meet Lee Durrell again, this time at her and strategies involved were remarkably tins to raise further funds, and this Candler, Josh Caine and Honor Douglas place (!) and Quentin Bloxham, who complex, and we were hugely impressed garnered approximately £440, and then helped Gerry Durrell set up the Trust Miller for being particularly strong, by how the Trust was responsible for 11% Lauren Clark-Hattingh together with her from the beginning. Huge thanks to selfless and inspiring members of a team of the creatures saved from extinction in matron Sandra Hewlett cooked up Michaela Walker, Jack’s mum, for her that included many great young people. the last decade, how it had resurrected enormous help with this trip, which various other delicacies to raise even Thanks also to great support from Lee the beautiful Mauritius kestrel from a hopefully will be the first of many. more money. As the end of the year Durrell and her team, and Michaela single female, saved the Montserrat approaches we have raised £600 more in Walker, on Jersey. Mr Bob Roberts The Durrell Society with the cockroach and making Gorilla snacks

72 The Stoic The Stoic 73 Creative Writing Gallery

The Dream of Reality

Me myself and I, The only dream I now live by. Regardless of how hard I try, always treated with the same old sigh, No one cares, Who, What Where, or Why? Laughter, kind words of praise shrouded by my melancholy cry. The worries of everyday life seems to underlie, Of every movement, tempting me to its side But, who am I to deny, The summer warmth, joy and the bright blue sky? The inevitability of the mirth we must all upon rely? Holding my head up on high Willing, almost wishing to defy, Those who stare at me with looks so dry Still every day that does go by. Alec Pultr, Fifth Form Alas, it is only me myself and I.

Octavia Trevor, Upper Sixth

74 The Stoic The Stoic 75 Trips and Visits Trips and Visits

In early July 13 guys headed off on and the mosquitoes abundant and are were exclusively fly fishermen and a to jump in. On our visit, we saw numerous was taken very quickly to the Medical smashing them to smithereens... a pastime a trip to the western tip of Alaska locally known as the ‘National Bird combination of 15’ double handers and Grizzlies... most of which were in the Centre where the duty team simply pulled they frequently enjoy we were told! of Alaska’! heavy sink tips lines for the Kings which water just above or below where we were the shot back out in the direction they in a journey that would take two All in all it was a great trip. With King Salmon could weigh up to well over 40lbs or fishing. The general rule was, that if you went in... not a view for the faint-hearted days and 3 flights to arrive. Their Based on the edge of the River Naknek up to 35lbs, Sockeye up to 12lbs and a smaller weight 6 rods for the explosive but hooked a salmon and the Grizzly showed but all on video... much to Luke’s delight! destination King Salmon Airport and draining into the Kvichak Bay we Rainbow Trout over 10lbs it was a trip to smaller Sockeye. Both species are difficult interest, you had to break the line and were well placed to intercept the King and During our stay, we managed a rafting trip remember. There were certainly more fish used to be a US Airbase during to catch but once the right combination of move out of the water quickly but calmly... Sockeye Salmon migrating to their down the Alagnak River famed for it’s hooked than were landed, but that’s just the Cold War. fly and technique was achieved, most well, several of us took a long time before spawning grounds. Each morning after we managed to land our first salmon at Rainbow Trout and Sockeye – a beautiful fishing. The Stoics and staff involved directly As the small twin prop passed by snow members of the party contacted but not breakfast groups would be organised to Brooks! One interesting event took place river and full of fish hunting Grizzlies! were Luke Davison, Ben Patton, Graham capped mountains and the odd active always landed these magnificent fish. drive by jet boat to the various sections where Luke Davison in the process of We camped three nights and with the late Riddick, Rory Akam, Michael Righton and volcano, excitement was rising among of river that the guides believed held these One day we managed to get a trip out to hurrying to land his salmon pulled on the setting of the sun allowed us to fish right associated friends and family. Another trip is the group as to what was to come over fish. Some of the party would take a float the infamous ‘Brooks Falls’, which many line a little too hard... the leader snapped up to midnight. Several of the camps were planned for 2013 but where... we are only to the next 10 days. plane to rivers further afield, which will have seen on the TV. It is here that the and the split shot rocketed back at visited by the bears and there was always dream about right now. We were staying at an isolated fishing would take you over the Tundra to some Grizzly Bears sit on the falls with their lightning speed. With blood spurting out the worry that the Grizzlies would use the Mr Michael Righton, Biology Department, lodge where comforts were pretty simple magnificent fishing holes. The group mouths open wide waiting for a salmon of a rather dreadful looking injury Luke rafts as trampolines and ending up Educational Visits Coordinator, Gap Coordinator

76 The Stoic The Stoic 77 Trips and Visits Trips and Visits

Santepheap Cambodian Children’s House of Peace

Both Abby and I wanted to volunteer with children the children in all aspects – i.e. learning to On a typical day, the children got up at read and write for the younger children around 5am to work in the garden at the to do something constructive and worthwhile with and our aim for the older children was to back of the orphanage, growing food to our time by giving something back to people who improve their grammar and sentence make the orphanage self-sustainable. have the most appalling lifestyles and truly need as formations. We were also asked to spend Lessons then started at 9. After we finished much help and support as possible. an hour a day with each class reading and teaching the children they would have a we split each class into three reading maths and a Khmer lesson, which were ability levels – the crocodiles, fish and both taught by a local volunteer monk. We chose to volunteer in Cambodia, lessons. The main aim of the organisation elephants. It was taxing as some children The facilities in the orphanage are all as it was a country that neither of us had is to give the children the skills needed were 15/16 years and could barely read Outside of the classroom we tried to help The experience was truly life changing temporary buildings. The girls all sleep in been to before. The country is still to find a job at 18 and earn a living for whereas some children were only 8/9 years in any way possible. The children and we couldn’t recommend doing 2 rooms in the only upstairs section of the suffering from the Khmer Rouge era and themselves. The orphanage is very and could read almost fluently and hold a performed a traditional Apsara dance something like this more highly. If you are main building, and the boys sleep in a due to this, the country as a whole is still determined, but it’s sadly constantly on full conversation in English. The material show every Sunday, so in the evenings and at all interested in volunteering in the makeshift building round the back that seriously lacking in aid. We chose the the brink of closing down due to a severe we taught the morning class was a lot at weekends we would hand out flyers for doubles up as the classroom. This is often future, please consider this wonderful orphanage itself as we had a connection lack of funding. more basic. We taught things such as the the show in the touristy areas of Siem flooded and constantly leaks during orphanage as the children and directors with it through a family friend. One of the alphabet, learning to read single letters Reap. Sadly, the children have little success When we arrived at the orphanage, we monsoon season. There are no beds or would be so grateful. The web address is major reasons for choosing Santepheap and we then progressed to words and when they try to hand them out as people were thrown in at the deep end mattresses to sleep on, only thin mats on www.santepheap.org and there are a few was that we didn’t have to go through an finally full sentences. We also taught topics think they are beggars. However when we completely. We had no documents to the floor. The rooms are also extremely photos of us on there teaching the organisation, meaning we didn’t have to such as daily routine, parts of the body, the did it, we had a lot more success due to indicate each child’s level, or knowledge over crowded as staff and pupils have to children. We hope we get the chance to pay an initial large sum of money to a senses and the weather. The afternoon our race. Outside of the few volunteers of what material they had already studied. share. The kitchen/cooking areas are in meet the children again as we made such third party to be there. This meant that a class was more advanced, so we taught that come to help, the show is the only The pupils were split into two classes rhyming, difficult sentence structures and poor condition also as they are all fantastic bonds with the staff and pupils. great deal more of the scholarship money opportunity the orphanage has to get based on age, one for the morning and topics such as countries and continents. makeshift wooden structures outside. We’ll never forget our time in Cambodia could go directly to the orphanage and donations from tourists. The children play one in the afternoon and so one of the We held a weekly test on a Friday and each Sadly there are no proper surfaces to and we would never have had such a to the children themselves, which they all the music themselves and are extremely first things we did was give the children a day we would use a fun educational game ensure everything is clean and there are creative. We also helped plant new wonderful opportunity if we hadn’t sorely needed. test to determine each child’s ability in to help the kids remember the vocabulary very few utensils with which they can shrubbery and plants there to help the soil received the scholarship. We would like to Santepheap is home to 33 children, aged three different areas – reading, speaking and meanings of the words that would be cook. The bathroom facilities are also in adapt, as the climate is very poor. One of thank the Old Stoics and the PTA for this 6-18 years. The orphanage provides them and vocabulary. We gave them each a in the upcoming test. We found the games very poor condition as there is no the children was taken ill as there was a wonderful opportunity and of course with shelter, food, clothing and basic grade and this then allowed us to divide extremely effective, they kept the drainage/sewage system at all; they just severe outbreak of dengue fever while we Mr Righton for making it all happen. schooling such as maths, Khmer (their the two classes more evenly on ability. Our children’s attention for far longer than if lead straight outside to the area where were there, so we also decided to give Liberty Barrons (Nugent 10) and own language) and English language job was mainly to teach English to all of we were just sat in the classroom. they try to grow food. blood at the local hospital. Abby Payne (Lyttelton 10)

78 The Stoic The Stoic 79 SHPT SHPT

Researching the Restoration detailed research before a likely candidate was approved. Last summer the Stowe House Another year, It can be a daunting task to draw Preservation Trust was faced with a new obstacle: how does one go about restoring conclusions from such sparse material, a room that is barely documented? The but SHPT has become well practised in another milestone room in question was the Egyptian Hall, an extracting as much evidence as possible early nineteenth century interior that had from each source and achieving the very been completely stripped of its original best results. Soon the Egyptian Hall will be September 2012 marked another milestone in Stowe House fittings and disguised with layers of white home to a pair of new sphinxes, a mock Preservation Trust’s task of restoring the Mansion and paint. There were only two sources that sarcophagus and a collection of Egyptian- conserving it for the future. Completion of the rather described the original appearance of the style paintings, all of which have been prosaically termed Phase 3 sub-phase 2 meant that, for the first Hall: a pair of watercolour sketches and a painstakingly researched using the two time in twelve years, the mansion stands on its own without short description in an early nineteenth sketches together with historic books in scaffolding on any of the main parts of the structure. century guide book. It was clear that more the British Library. historical research was needed. More recently conservators have revealed Resplendent in the late summer underestimated the extent of decoration, paintings hidden under several layers of sunshine, the restored stonework and hidden under years of functional but The two images we have of the Egyptian Hall are by John Claude Nattes, a French paint on the window shutters in the State newly applied render once more justify bland paint finishes, to the doors and watercolour artist who spent some time Music Room – an interior we thought was the epithet “greatest temple in the window shutters. Some judicious at Stowe in 1805 drawing the house and unlikely to surprise us during restoration landscape” and stand witness to the management of our budget will be grounds. The quality and accuracy of his work. The paintings echoed those above exceptional generosity of our benefactors necessary to arrive at a solution that does work varies so it was important not to the doors and around the niche, and and the skills of a varied and dedicated justice to the discoveries. However, the take his studies of the Egyptian Hall evidence of the original gilding survived workforce. At the height of the work, design team and all the specialists immediately at face value when it came the paint removing process. They can be twenty-nine stone masons were employed involved will ensure that the full extent of to researching the unique fittings that seen most clearly in the south-west corner, and weekly progress meetings ensured each discovery is recorded. We shall then gave the Hall its character. where the shutters receive the least direct completion in time for the start of the make every effort to ensure an authentic sunlight. As word of this discovery made academic year. In the end, the two year but lasting representation of the The sphinx statues that once flanked the its way to the SHPT offices, eighteenth programme of work was completed on stupendous decorative scheme of this, base of the staircase leading up to the century guide books were quickly referred time, within budget and to the highest the most gracious of Stowe’s interiors. North Hall were particularly problematic: to and we were able to confirm that these quality. At the same time, the Egyptian they are obscured by Nattes’ sketchy style. There is more to come… next year paintings dated from the original 1770s Hall was returned to its original We soon found out that they were carved should see the restoration of North Hall decorative scheme. appearance, with sand textured walls from stone after consulting the catalogue and the Eastern Grand Staircase. We have and new stone steps up to North Hall. from the 1921 auction in which they were Without Stowe’s accompanying paper ordered replicas of the copper vases that This work took longer than anticipated sold. Several months were spent scouring archive (currently located in the due to the discoveries made in the course once graced the balustrade and plan to the country for as many examples of Huntington Library in California) we will of the work to restore this unique space. install these in their rightful place as the eighteenth and early nineteenth century never know all its secrets. In the As recorded in Hettie Dix’s article, the restoration progresses to the balustrade sphinx statues as possible before two meantime, however, we are slowly but physical restoration work is backed by itself. One thing is certain, after two principal styles came to light: the classical surely beginning to understand the history painstaking research to ensure the hundred years, the Mansion is still giving Greco-Roman (as seen at Compton of this great building thanks to the authenticity of the finished work. As I up secrets and showing that it was – and Verney), and the more austere Greco- dedication of the restoration team and a write this article, further discoveries in is – a living breathing building. Egyptian (as seen at Chiswick House). The renewed focus on scholarly research. the Music Room have shown that we Nick Morris, Chief Executive Officer, SHPT latter was thought more appropriate for Hettie Dix, Restoration Project Researcher, the Hall, and it took nearly a year of Stowe House Preservation Trust

80 The Stoic The Stoic 81 Feature Feature Ataxia

Last academic year, Emily Marchant, and Fifth Formers with the theme of Tabitha Owen, Jessica Noakes and Hippie/Flower power. This was very well myself decided that we wanted to raise received by all. both awareness and funds for the Whilst we had a number of other events charity Ataxia UK. We took this objective in the pipeline, the pressure of to the Headmaster who kindly agreed impending exams meant we had to cut that Ataxia UK could be the School’s back on our plans. The Headmaster had Charity of the Year. This is a charity big plans for the speech day this year and close to home, as I was diagnosed allowed us to get involved. We put on a with Frederick’s Ataxia when I was Jubilee Party for the whole school to kick 11 years old. This is an aggressive off the Jubilee Weekend, which was neurodegenerative condition, which incredibly well supported and enjoyed affects my balance, co‐ordination and by all. With help from staff, pupils and speech. It currently has no known even a cadre of local parents we were treatment or cure. able to take advantage of the many side With the School’s support behind us, shows laid on for the weekend as well as we decided to organise numerous enjoy some of the undoubted musical different fundraising events over the year. talents of Stoics on the outdoor stage. Our first event was a BBQ at the House Our fundraising activities were brought Football cooked and delivered with the to a conclusion the next day when we help of the Queen’s Upper Sixth. In organised a sweepstake for The Derby. addition to a collection at the Christmas I was really pleased to be able to give a Carol Service, the school donated a cheque to Ataxia UK for £17,860, which proportion of the sale of Christmas Cards was gratefully received. My thanks go out and the proceeds of a Home Clothes Day. to my fellow committee members, the We expanded this latter event to include Headmaster and my Housemistress a Cake Sale where we sold cup cakes, Mrs Hamblett‐Jahn, Staff and especially muffins and every Krispy Kreme we to all the Stoics who did so much to could lay our hands on! make it successful fundraising year for In the New Year we held a Lower School Ataxia UK. Dance in the State Rooms for the Fourth Sasha Milne (Upper Sixth)

82 The Stoic The Stoic 83 Creative Writing Gallery

Skin

Bound in tender love I look at you and feel sheltered; Protected from the world but not ignorant, aware of your Knowledge. Teaching I want to stay within your cradle forever, never wake up and face the world without you. You are my strength

and I fear Silviya Nenkova, Upper Sixth without you I won’t know myself. As with edification our relationship intensifies as we realise that we are one another in separate skin. But like serpents we will have to unbind and I will be naked. I don’t want to accept. I want to encase myself in this Neverland. Liberty King, Lower Sixth

Ye Shi, Upper Sixth

84 The Stoic The Stoic 85 Music Music Music at Stowe It is hard to believe that as I turn the corner from Junior Jazz Combo to our local retirement home, and the Senior Jazz Combo the Roxburgh Theatre facing towards Lyttelton and entertained the University of the Third begin to walk up towards Lee’s bastion, I am now Age, under the magical direction of Dave Richmond. Miles Nottage took Debbie surrounded by open space. All the trees have been Borthwick’s outstanding Big Band (which removed, and the site of the New Music School is performed with such style at Dinner and laid bare, the size of the site is visible from the Jazz in the State Rooms in November) to the Althorp Park Literary Festival, and Miles main driveway as a large gaping hole. also directed them for Summer Jazz on the South Front. Performers included Harry Cockbill, Guy Turner, Tom Gordon- Over the next 50 weeks that hole is going along with John Cooper Green, were Colebooke, Isaac Ajala, William Motion, to be filled by a ‘State of the Art’ Music promised again and again new facilities, Angus McCorie-Shand, Jahnai Hall, William School. An auditorium seating 230 people, but the timing was not quite right. McGovern and singer Francesca Stevens. 24 practice and teaching rooms and a However, the stars in the heavens have After these events I received extraordinary recording facility surrounded by the best on this occasion not fought us, and the letters of thanks, commenting on the high Sony media facilities (provided generously current team of staff have followed the level of musicianship, but also the through a benefactor) that one would lead of previous incumbents and made incredibly therapeutic power of music. imagine would accompany a building the most of the resources on offer, and created for the 21st Century. Leslie have created a full and varied program of Our year began by welcoming into Stowe Huggins dreamt of this possibility in the events, and at last Leslie Huggins’ dream School Chapel on Sunday 11 September early 1950s and 60 years later, in time for will become a reality. over 150 singers from six local choral the School’s Ninetieth Anniversary, a new societies, as well as our own Stowe Choral This year the Music Department has put Music School will be completed thanks to Society to sing a Concert of Remembrance on 100 events in Stowe, neighbouring the vision of the current Headmaster and for the victims of 9/11. The programme churches and old peoples’ homes, as well the Governing body, a large number of included Barber’s Adagio for Strings, as events in London, Paris and New York. generous donations from Old Stoics, which has become so associated with the We are an international department. In former and current parents, as well as tragic event at the Twin Towers, as well as February the Chapel Choir sang Evensong current and former staff along with the Philippa Dearsley performing Mozart’s to a packed cathedral in London at the tremendous energy and vision of the Exultate Jubilate. The choral societies all beautiful venue of Southwark, under the Director of Development, Colin Dudgeon, came from an afternoon rehearsal and the watchful construction of the 2012 Shard; and his team. second half of the concert was a stirring this was followed by a social event at Café performance of Mozart’s Requiem. For sixty years Leslie Huggins, Angus Rouge, with a large number of Old Stoics Watson, David Gatehouse and John and parents. In March Huw Jones The Stowe String Orchestra reached new Cooper Green succeeded in bringing a (Assistant Director of Music) and myself heights of accomplishment under their tremendous amount of music into the lives took the Chamber Choir to New York, full-time Head of Strings and Keyboard of Stoics. Paul Harris and Robert Secret, where we sang for an Old Stoics’ reception Dr Shu-Wei Tseng. Over the year they in New York City’s Tennis and Racquet learnt and performed to a very high Club, and then the following day in the standard Greig’s Holberg Suite, which Church of St John the Divine, before going had its first airing at the beautiful and up to New Canaan, where the Town named welcoming church in Quainton, and its the day after us, before being hosted by final performance in May on the South an Old Stoic’s adopted church family in Front Portico for this year’s Diamond Irvington, on the banks of the Hudson. In Jubilee Speech Day. The Chamber Choir Paris the Wind Band travelled during the perfomed Vivaldi’s Gloria, and Rex first week of the Easter vacation under the Roxburgh, our former Winchester leadership of Debbie Borthwick and Huw chorister and budding organ scholar, Jones, to perform in two city venues before played an organ concerto with the Stowe knocking the crowds out at EuroDisney, Festival Strings, our professional group as part of their 25th Jubilee celebrations. of string players. On a more humble note, but nevertheless In November the orchestra played on the just as rewarding, Miles Nottage took the South Front Portico and could be heard

86 The Stoic The Stoic 87 Music Music

over the Fireworks, playing Handel’s on forthcoming nuptials, finishing with a Musik for the Royal Fireworks, and stunning performance of Widor’s Toccata. reappeared at the same venue to play Tbe highlight for this year was the Walton’s Shakespeare Suite at the combined Concerto Concert and South Diamond Jubilee Speech Day. The African Dominican Convent School Choir Chamber Choir, under Huw Jones has and Marimba Band concert. Liam Forster performed at numerous dinners, as well as played the clarinet in Finzi’s Bagatelles, a number of concerts, but on Speech Day Harriet Eatwell played the euphonium in the audience was enthralled by the choir Horovitz’s Euphonium Concerto, Rex and the stunning solo voices of Francesca Roxburgh played the second violin part Stevens, Sophie Woodhead, Florence alongside Christopher Windass (Head of Pearce and Miles Clark. In addition, Strings)in Bach’s Concerto for Two Violins, mention should be made of Emma Curley and Alice Jackman who give heart-felt solo William Motion played the Flugal Horn in performances in front of the crowd of Peeter’s Trumpet Sonata, arranged for 2,600 people. Strings and Flugal Horn, Camilla Harvey Scholes played the oboe in Cimarosa’s We have had many outstanding Oboe Concerto and Michael Kitchen professional musicians visiting Stowe played the cello in Glazunov’s largely this year, to teach, perform or judge unheard work Chant du Menestrel. They Stoics. Jeremy Walker, Director of Music all played to a remarkably high standard, at Westminster Under School and on Liam Forster and Harriet Eatwell pulling the Board of Youth Music Theatre; off virtuoso performances of both their Paul Harris, former Head of Woodwind chosen concertos. They were at Stowe, lecturer at the Royal Academy accompanied by Stowe’s professional Music who has also just been given an ensemble, the Stowe Festival Orchestra award from Faber Publishing house for led by Christopher Windass. As the soloists selling over 2.5 million music from the concertos relaxed, the South publications; Edmund Jolliffe, TV African Dominican School Choir stood up, composer and composer for the TV and along with the Marimba Band gave programme ‘Who do you think you are’; performances that were so emotional, Scott Stroman, Director of Jazz at involving and uplifting that when they Guildhall School of Music and Drama; finished, the audience, many with tears Richard Lloyd Morgan (OS) Chaplain streaming down their faces, gave the King’s College, Cambridge; Steve groups a standing ovation. It was a Dummer, clarinetist and conductor of wonderful event, such contrasts of styles, Talkestra and lecturer at Chichester but both performed with the intention of University; Paul Archibald, international making the audience feel uplifted: and trumpeter and former head of Brass at the they were. Everyone left the chapel five Royal College of Music; Philip Fowke, feet off the ground, it was a ‘A Life Britain’s most respected concert pianist changing Experience!’ and emeritus professor of Piano at Trinity College of Music; Shelia Barnes, former I know the coming year will be full of soloist at New York City Opera, Dallas and excitement. We welcome Hollywood’s Houston Operas, current vocal teacher at hottest film composer, Harry Gregson- Trinity College, Cambridge; David Goode, Williams (OS), who will be joining the staff international concert organist and for the coming year as composer-in- Organist at Eton College; Dr Nicholas residence. I will continue to walk up to Clapton, counter-tenor, Professor of Voice Lee’s Bastion as that gap in the landscape at the Royal Academy. becomes filled with every Director of Three of our own faculty members gave Music’s dream, a new Music School. The recitals at Stowe this year. Dr Shu-Wei building when it is completed, will allow Tseng gave memorable, accomplished and all Stoics’ to flourish with their music audacious performances of Bach and making, and all will understand that music Liszt. Miles Nottage knocked the piano is experiential. It is my intention that into shape with his now mesmerizing music at Stowe will always be for everyone Blues and Boogie Woogie Jazz, and Huw and, like the Dominican Convent School’s Jones gave an Organ recital which Concert last May, I will always hope it will demonstrated music associated with Royal be a life changing experience. Weddings, perhaps research based on his Mr Simon Dearsley, Director of Music

88 The Stoic The Stoic 89 Creative Writing Gallery

Untold Regrets The sweltering heat was unbearable. The boy took hold of his oversized neckerchief and wiped beads of sweat from his furrowed brow. The barren Mexican landscape comforted him, like a shelter from the torrent of industry: distant, drawn-out plains and occasional forms of dried-out plant life, struggling as he was to survive each day’s hardship. Looming mountains stretched higher than anything back home; a symbol of breaking away from the trials and tribulations of everyday life. No one would follow him here. No one cared enough. The foreign, deserted road stretched out before him, encouraging him to venture on into a new life. The silence was overwhelming. The dry, cracked dirt cried out as his spurs etched marks into its barren texture, echoing loudly in the humid air. The boy peered into the horizon, far outreaching the barely civilised stretch of Perdido’s housing, into the wild and unknown. He could not go back now, he had come too far. As he made his way past the stone structure of the Local Authority, he gently tugged at the leather glove which engulfed his small hand, pulling off the coarse material and flexing his fingers. He raised an eyebrow as he heard the faint sound of music, compelling him to walk in a dazed manner towards an imposing structure not far in front of him. The sound grew louder, and the boy could make out the caressing sound of a familiar piano tune whose name escaped him; a pulse embodying this foreign town. As he approached, he peered at the word ‘Saloon’, engraved into a hanging advertisement. The windows were grubby and blotted, and the music was rhythmic and loud now. Unsettling. Dark, unknown stains meandered across several panes, like the trail left behind by a fleeing insect, and despite the longing in the boy to leave this place for good, he was strangely intrigued. Stepping up the uneven stairs, he almost lost his balance, but held his own and continued towards the swinging doors. He could not go back now, he had come too far. Pushing both doors aside, the boy slowly walked into the stuffy, smoky room before him. Suffocating. The haze trailed upwards, forming different streams of heat towards the ceiling, hypnotising him in its translucent dance. The square room was crowded and musty, the dark panelled walls ornately decorated by trophies of game in a similar style to back home. Several men stood facing away, speaking in fluent, rapid Spanish to the barkeeper in such a manner the poor boy had no way of interpreting anything. On one round table, men sat drinking whiskey from small shot glasses, feet on the table, laughing in ominous, cackling tones. Next to them, a circular cards table was sprawled out, as men hunched over holding bottles of beer: some with shaggy, dirty mustachios and others with long, unkempt hair. Before any of the men had taken notice, a young, barely yet colourfully dressed woman had rushed to the door and was shouting over the bustle, frantically pointing and waving. Gazing at her in stunned silence, the boy took in all of her distinguishing features: tanned, smooth skin and straight black hair, paired with dark eyes, untrusting eyes. A sly smile played upon her lips. Beautiful, in a twisted sort of way. Any man would obviously have been attracted to her, but the boy had more pressing matters. She was somewhat dirty, with spilled drink on her short cut dress and purple bruises on her revealed right arm, with which she was avidly clutching him: she clearly worked here. The boy muttered some inaudible words, repeating the name he had been told to memorise and repeat for this specific time. She nodded knowingly, breaking into a toothy grin. She gestured behind her to a group of less rowdy men, sitting in the back left of the saloon. Holding firmly onto him, she passed through the crowded scene with little notice: the distorted and intoxicated men were having far too much of a good time to question him. Gesturing towards the man sitting away from the two, the woman timidly leant over the man’s shoulder, whispering a number of quick phrases before being silenced as he raised his hand. From behind, it could be seen that the man was tall and gangly, with a widely brimmed hat shading his eyes. Without turning, he spoke loudly over the ensuing chaos of the bar, and with a thick accented, Texan voice, said, “You made it all the way here then and quick too.” The boy remained silent, as the man began rolling a cigarette from a battered tin. “They suspect anything?” The boy shook his head and cautiously sat down beside the man. “They will soon, and you know it.” The man chuckled and laid his cards on the table. It was too late to go back now, he had come too far.

Jordan Cleary, Lower Sixth

María Bartolomé, Lower Sixth

90 The Stoic The Stoic 91 Drama Drama

Senior Congreve

Our Country’s Good, by British playwright, Timberlake Wertenbaker was first staged at the Royal Court Theatre, London in September 1988 and was directed by Max Stafford-Clark. It played on Broadway in 1991. Stowe first produced it as the Senior Congreve of 1996.

he play was adapted from the Thomas skill, sensitivity and emotion. Congreve regulars Keneally novel The Playmaker and concerns Harriet Easdale as Dabby, Max Smith as Sideway and T a group of Royal Marines and convicts in one Harriet Goffman as Liz, provided some much needed of the ‘new’ penal colonies in New South Wales, comic relief with their bizarre mix of ‘convict’ Australia, in the 1780s. Through the brutal conditions characters and Gigi Bacon certainly caught the eye and the unforgiving drudgery of their daily lives, one as the old haggard, Meg. of the young Officers, 2nd Lieutenant Ralph Clark, There was excellent support from the remaining decides to stage a production of The Recruiting members of the cast who all were able to sustain Officer by George Farquhar. The play shows the their roles effectively and convincingly. With suitable established class system and how it affects those in and striking costumes by Angela Cammish and her the convict camp and also discusses themes such as group of talented and enthusiastic helpers and a sexuality, punishment, the Georgian judicial system, most imaginative stage set design from Nick Bayley, and the idea that it might just be possible for the art including huge swaths of unbleached calico as sails, of the ‘theatre to be a humanising force’. raised platforms with wooden balustrades for the The 2012 production ran for three performances in Officers to parade upon and a large sand pit centre the Roxy, from March 15-17 and featured a cast and stage to add to the feel of the hot, oppressive crew of over 50 Stoics. The majority of the actors drudgery of life ‘down under’, the production were Sixth Formers and for some it was their last certainly looked and felt very professional. At times involvement in a Congreve production after being the challenging acoustics of the unforgiving with us since the Third Form in 2007. performance space made hard work for the actors involved, but to their Chris Walters provided detailed and precise direction, great credit, the majority rose most which elicited some mature and thoughtful effectively to the occasion. Parents, performances from the leading players. Imran friends, fellow Stoics and staff who Momen managed to play Ralph exactly right, having came along to the performances were that perfect mix of loyalty to his Commanding richly entertained by the production Officers, and yet a dedication and desire to improve and every member of the company, the lives of those less fortunate souls in his charge. from actor to stage crew to make-up Brodie Smith as Harry Brewer, gave a superb assistant to director, should be extremely performance as a man deeply troubled and obsessed proud of their efforts and hard work. with one of the female convicts. His slow spiral into deeper and deeper despair was expertly done. Daisy Mr Nick Bayley, Director of Drama Ussher played Duckling, Harry’s object of desire, with

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Junior Congreve Fifth Form Production heartfelt and sensitive performance was remarkable. There were other mature and moving performances from Maddie Wackett as their mother, Vi, whose superbly played reaction to the news of her daughter’s death, brought tears from the audience every night. Alfie Hardman and Alec Pultr, as the two police constables, who were first on the scene, managed to Macbeth capture the frustration of these two young ‘A drum, a drum! Officers, who had to deal bravely with the carnage and emotional fall out of the Macbeth doth come’… night’s tragic events. Hugo Ellison as Duncan and Marina Oswald as the Nurse, Junior Congreve’s contribution to the 2012 Cultural contributed effectively to the sullen and Olympiad took place in the busy week leading up to grave atmosphere of the post accident Speech Day on 2 June. The production startled its scenes by the roadside and in the hospital. audience with an energised and gothic re-interpretation Kemal Eyi and Tom Gordon-Colbrooke of Shakespeare’s most dark and bloody play. Just before the February half-term, as the sweeping, and gave us some much needed light relief as The large cast of 33, drawn from the Third and Fourth the two lads, Bob and Nob, looking for a Forms, commanded the stage and the swift transitions at times, biting Siberian winds blew in from the East, good night `on the pull` in the local wine from the world of men to the supernatural realms of the bringing snow, ice and travel chaos to this little corner of bar. Supporting characters were played by witches kept the audience captivated and enthralled. Pitan Aganga, Bella Kelly, Alex Long, Coco William Dinsdale was superb as the anguished, troubled North Bucks, a superbly staged, thought-provoking and Anthony and Katkin Farr. The production yet power crazy Macbeth. His performance was mature exciting production of Mark Wheeler’s verbatim style was sensitively and imaginatively directed and sophisticated and he received many plaudits for his by Nick Bayley with assistance from both efforts and commitment. Lauren Carley excelled in her docudrama, ‘Too Much Punch For Judy’, was presented Harriet Stringer and Lucy Ashe. Technical descent from a scheming temptress into a madwoman. by a talented company of seventeen, Fifth Form Stoics. support came from Otto Balfour and Her last scene, as she walks the lonely passages of her doomed castle, were poignant and sensitive . Henry Cameron O`Brien and the intimate Sylvester’s performance as Banquo successfully and The play tells the tragic story of a young words of those most closely involved atmosphere of the Dobinson Theatre certainly helped crank up the tension and maturely presented a man torn between his own desire woman, Joanna, who is killed in a car crash. and affected in the events leading up to for power and loyalty to his friend. Patrick Keating as create the appropriate mood. The reaction The driver, her sister, Judy, who had been that fateful night. Macduff and Molemo Huma as Malcolm both gave the from the packed, appreciative audience on drinking heavily on the night of the play a strength and stability in contrast to the wild and Jemima Phillips played Judy and Caroline each night, was simply stunning and all murderous natures of so many of the play’s characters. accident, escaped relatively unhurt. All the Schaufelberger played Jo. Both girls were those involved deserve great credit for events in the play are `real` and the story utterly convincing in their portrayal of While this smart, punchy and pacy abridged version of their commitment to the production. of the Poulton sisters was first dramatised the text, created by Co-Directors Nick Bayley and Lucy these two young women. Jemima was on Ashe, maintained the essence of the original, the use of by Mark Wheeler in 1986, using only the stage all the time and her emotional, Mr Nick Bayley nine ever present witches added a surreal, supernatural and distorted quality. The nine girls were ever present on stage, tempting, controlling and even lighting the way to corruption and damnation. These mysterious and inhumane beings acted alongside a strong ensemble cast, playing a variety of murderers, lords, attendants, doctors, gentlewomen and soldiers. Together, the cast created thrilling theatrical set pieces, portraying hair-raising ideas of power, human frailty, corruption and deceit. Special mention must go to the two lads offering technical support for the production. Joss Fitch and Alex Ford, who worked very creatively alongside Nick Bayley, to add the tension and help create the suitable atmosphere of imposing and ear bending rock music, blood red lighting and other spine-chilling moments. Junior Congreve’s 2012 chilling production of ‘Macbeth’ certainly challenged both the actors and the audience to re-consider this iconic play, providing an evening of engaging and entertaining theatre.

Mr Nick Bayley and Miss Lucy Ashe

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Rebecca White and Georgina Jack showed us two views of a family, one naturalistic, the other absurd and grotesque; while Max Brunette-Jacobs, Alex Gurov, Alfie Hardman and Hoagy Pollen gave us the rambling tale, moving from location to location, of a pair of incompetent kidnappers and their hapless victims. They milked a lot of comic fun from their enthusiastic use of real food and drink. Harry Hayden, Otto Balfour, Rebecca Wild and Anna Milyavskeya’s piece was more domestic, showing the complicated relationships between a group of friends, while the most ambitious offering of all came from a group who decided to use a different stimulus – “She’s Leaving Home” by The Beatles – and a different style of theatre, taking on the ambitious task of creating an original piece of musical theatre. Acapella songs accompanied the tale of three runaways, played by Coco Anthony, Florence Pearce and Caroline Schaufelberger, while Amir Ansari played the various male characters (mostly nasty) GCSE Drama who preyed upon them. practical assessments The scripted assessments were performed in early May and it is a tribute to all of the students, and particularly to their At GCSE, Drama students have the same challenge “Behind the door” was the most popular own increasing sophistication and stimulus, but even within this constraint understanding of theatre, that they as at Advanced level: to prepare, rehearse and there was plenty of variety. Two groups were able to move beyond what can perform two performances – one chose to use children’s fairy tales as the sometimes come across as a rather sterile of them an original, devised basis of their drama. Rebecca Raeburn, exercise, to produce some exciting Arthur Newman, Harrison Perske and moments of theatre. piece, based upon a Matthew Harvey produced a witty and There was a fascinating range of scripts stimulus provided by highly entertaining updating of the story of the Three Little Pigs, while Hugh Evans, on display. We had a very bawdy Greek comedy, with Rebecca White and Rebecca the exam board; and the Alex Long, Anastasia Lopoukhine and and Caroline presented a series of scenes one girl, played by Bella Kelly, who is Wild, Marina, Lettice and Anna performing Priscilla Pearce focused on the backstage from “Romanoff and Juliet”, a Fifth Form drawn into the dark world of anorexia, other an extract from a modern (and somewhat risqué) version shenanigans of a theatre company play from four years ago, taking advantage and the impact that this has on her family, a published script. of “Lysistrata”, with enormous panache presenting a pantomime version of Little of their natural accents to present a played by Coco, Harriet, Alex Long and style. Jem and Rebecca Raeburn also The major difference is that at Advanced Red Riding Hood. parody of the Shakespeare play. Hugh and Pitan. took on a classic text, with a spirited level these two pieces are performed and Priscilla played the American In contrast, two groups opted for more version of the tea and cake scene from Finally, Hoagy, Alfie and Max took on the on the same day; at GCSE, each one is ambassador and his wife, as well as their everyday scenarios. Kemal Eyi, Marina Wilde’s “The Importance of Being Earnest” challenging task of presenting extracts worked on separately. While this removes Russian equivalents, a neat piece of Oswald, Jem Phillips and Ollie Wright (though Arthur did rather steal the show from the stage adaptation of the film some of the pressure, it does mean casting which allowed them to gave us a hard-hitting and powerful look with his lugubrious butler.) In an extract “Withnail and I”. They chose the cellar bar that they have to hit the ground demonstrate their versatility. at the life and death of a young drug-user, from yet another classic play, Maddie for their venue, and played the various running at the beginning of the scenes in promenade, moving the action while Pitan Aganga, Bella Kelly, Olivia Wacket gave us a convincing and moving Modern masters Harold Pinter and exam year. Our 33, Fifth Form around the space and forcing the audience Savage, Harriet Stringer and Maddie Grusha from Brecht’s “Caucasian Chalk Willy Russell gave us a pair of strong Stoics had barely returned from to move with them: a brave, but ultimately Wackett |began with a school reunion, Circle”, with Olive, Flo and Amir providing two-handers: Charlie and Matt brought their summer holidays before they successful choice, giving the audience a which then unravelled to show each girl’s strong support. out the menace of the former’s “Dumb were put into groups, given the chance to be truly involved in the action. secrets and lies. Waiter”, while Kemal and Harrison were stimuli, and told to start creating Two groups “borrowed” their scene from strong (at both playing seven and Drama requires its practical aspect, if it is an original piece of drama. Two groups experimented with a different recent Stowe productions. Arthur and seventeen) as the Blood Brother twins to move beyond academic study, and this In these circumstances, it style of staging, both using traverse, with Otto delivered an entertaining extract of Russell’s most famous play. year’s entire cohort seized these was most encouraging to the audience on two sides of an acting from Patrick Marber’s “The Musicians” opportunities to perform with relish. be able to witness such a “corridor”, because of the particular needs (Grafton’s recent successful House play); The most hard-hitting show of the day was Mr Chris Walters variety of offerings. of their plays. Lettice Carter, Charlie Mason, and Hugh, Alex Gurov, Anastasia, Priscilla “Hard to swallow”, a powerful piece about

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incidents from the lives of four infamous serial killers. It began with a deceptive light-heartedness, but soon moved up through the gears of Grand Guignol, and was ultimately disturbing – I will never A2 Drama look at a pizza cutter in quite the same practical assessments way again. Each of these groups of four then re-formed into six pairs for their scripted At A2 level, the Drama/Theatre Studies practical performances, and as usual we were assessment is relatively free from the restrictions privileged to witness a wide range of students face at AS level: though a range of stimuli choices: the two Harriet’s gave us a very passionate and emotional Juliet and her is offered by the exam board, these are there to help long suffering Nurse, along with not hinder, while scripted extracts can be chosen Rosencrantz and Guildenstern (by from any play and drawn from any period. Stoppard, not Shakespeare) from Imran AS Drama and Max, followed by a lovely display of practical assessments The challenge remains for all the regime running the country at the time. sensitive musical theatre from Alice and students to use the skills and knowledge It was this powerful and arresting image Emma, singing `My Child` from Willy they have acquired over the two year that first drew the cast to their subject, Russell’s musical version of “Blood The AS Level Drama practical assessment needs to reflect the ideas and techniques Bacon, Chris Carrelet, Alicia Cresswell, course, and then be able to effectively and which they in turn used as a startling Brothers”, set in the State Music Room presents a tough challenge, especially for of a set theatre practitioner, while the Rebecca Dale and Harry Roberts looked at apply them to their own work. theatrical moment with which to start (where else?) Finally, there were a trio their performance. of modern plays: Mark Ravenhill’s those who have come from the relative scripted extract must be drawn from a list life in (and escape from) a women’s prison. As is generally the case, it was the self of texts provided by the WJEC exam board devised pieces – original, one-off , “Citizenship” (benefiting from its site freedom of GCSE. Both of the two pieces, All five of these gave us, their privileged Emma Curley, Alice Jackman, Brodie and presented in another contrasting style stylised and non naturalistic theatre Smith and Daisy Ussher tackled a lighter specific staging in the Nugent garden, one devised and one scripted, are audience, some memorable moments: from that of the devised scene. pieces from students at the very height of topic, but one with its own challenges, as well as some beautiful comic timing rehearsed simultaneously and performed Jack Chaplin, waking up startled in a their creative powers – which kicked off since it depicted the great Battle of the from both Daisy and Brodie); Amanda This year, for their devised pieces, our 21 vertical bed, surrounded by demons on the same day, and the criteria for both the proceedings, and gave the day a Sexes throughout time, starting with the Whittington’s “Be My Baby” featuring Stoic actors took inspiration and ideas from whispering in his ear; Harry Roberts are quite restrictive. The devised piece boost of energy and imagination. Big Bang, and working its way up to the Hannah and Hayley; and a powerful entering as a spider-like judge; a car radio the English actor, director and playwright, present. The memory of Brodie as a extract from Mike Bartlett’s “Earthquakes portrayed by Kit and Saskia singing its Harriet Easdale, Harriet Goffman, Phoebe Steven Berkoff, whose extreme approach to Mr Darcy-like figure, but blessed with a in London” with Phoebe and Lily. songs; Hugo`s near death Head Waiter; Harris and Lily Newman produced a theatre is based upon creating caricatured most un-Austen like turn of phrase, Each year it is a privilege for us in the Gigi being pursued by the police in a slow most moving and sophisticated piece, characters, incorporating exaggerated department to see work of such quality, based upon the tale of Los Disparecidos contriving to shock not only his riding mime as well as drawing on other forms of motion race and Rebecca’ s fascination and this year proved no exception. (The Disappeared) in Chile and more partner but also their horses, will long physical theatre, and in general has a focus with starting a fire! Above all, every student All the performers deserve huge credit particularly those who mourned them; lodge in the mind. upon the extreme. The style can lend itself demonstrated a clear understanding of and congratulations. their wives, sisters, mothers, who danced The final piece, presented by Hannah well to comedy, and it was this aspect that Berkoff’s techniques, which was the point silently in commemoration, waving white Maxwell, Imran Momen, Hayley Sarratt Mr Chris Walters Isabelle Berner, Hugo Brooks, Will Jones, of the assessment. handkerchiefs in defiance of the brutal and Max Smith, chose to explore Oscar Page and Tilly Salvin focused upon in The scripted performances took place later their piece. It told the story of the rise and that day, and inevitably, with the extracts fall of one waitress, played by Issy, but along drawn from a restricted list, there were the way also managed to satirise restaurant some scenes which were performed twice, etiquette, the power of advertising, and a allowing for interesting comparisons. graphic depiction of the phrase, “It’s a Siana and Saskia, and Issy and Tilly, jungle out there.” both performed a scene from Feydeau’s classic farce “A Flea in her Ear”; Oscar, Will Jack Chaplin, Jonny Constant, Bertie and Hugo, and Kit and James took extracts Hayward and Penny Thompson also from Pinter’s dark and brooding “The displayed their fondness for absurd Caretaker”; and there were two versions comedy, somehow combining the stories of parts of Sartre’s “Huis Clos”, from Harry, of Jack and Jill with Abraham and Isaac Gigi and Becca, as well as Tristan, Daisy and (both relying on journeys up mountains), Georgia. Finally, Chris and Alicia presented while Kit Dixon-Smith, James Drax, Saskia the opening scene of Ayckbourn’s “Woman Leboff and Siana Vere Nicoll gave us a In Mind.” Romeo and Juliet-like story of love across the classes (though this one ended Altogether, it made for an exhausting day, happily.) for teachers and students alike, but ultimately one that proved mutually Two groups looked at darker tales. Daisy satisfying, with every student giving a Anderson, Georgia Hirst and Tristan Phipps strong account of themselves. presented a macabre fairy tale, like a dark version of Alice in Wonderland, while Gigi Mr Nick Bayley

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Harriet Easdale Queen’s, Upper Sixth Imran Momen Bruce, Upper Sixth My happiest memories of Stowe will be filled with thoughts and I came to Stowe five years ago desperately wanting to reminisces about my drama work. From the Third Form to Upper be an inventor (Chitty Chitty Bang Bang was my Sixth, I have been continuously encouraged, engaged, inspired and favourite film back then...). Now that I am leaving, supported in everything I have done – from my first involvement in I want to be an Actor. This U-turn can only really be the staff/Stoic musical production of ‘Oliver’ in 2008 to the most explained by my association with the Drama and recent Senior Congreve production of ‘Our Country’s Good’. Theatre Studies Department at Stowe. Offering In-between times I have played leading roles in other Congreve extra-curricular activities such as the twice yearly productions like ‘Our Day Out’, ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’, Congreve productions, as well as exciting opportunities ‘The Hired Man’, as well as helping backstage on ‘Mother Courage to watch cutting edge professional companies up close, and her Children’. Mr Bayley gave me a fantastic opportunities last drama at Stowe has been one of my most enjoyable summer to direct a production of ‘The Maids’ with three of our pursuits. Anyone who can remember ‘Midsummer brilliant Branson Scholars and this year I have worked hard to get Night’s dream’ (and I hope there aren’t many) might my LAMDA Gold Medal in Acting. The endless opportunities open remember the skinny Asian kid waving his arms to every drama student are so good; whether it’s on the stage, melodramatically with every line he said. Or worse still, behind the scenes or in the classroom. My Drama lessons have over emphasising every. Single. Little. Shakespearian. never been without interest, lively debate, challenge, rigour, Word. I’ve been fortunate enough to share the stage passion and occasional hilarity! Numerous theatre trips for the with fellow ‘thesps’ like Max Smith, Brodie Smith, Daisy exam based students offer us the chance to develop our critical Ussher, Alice Jackman and Harriet Easdale – people skills as well as giving opportunities to ‘borrow’ ideas for our own who are truly talented , and who have all had the Daisy Ussher Nugent, Upper Sixth practical exam assessment pieces. I have seen such an eclectic chance to grow in skill and ability throughout their time I have always loved acting in plays so coming to Stowe for my two years in the Sixth Form has allowed me to get involved with range of performances in London, Stratford, Oxford, MK, here. It has been a pleasure getting to know the people everything the Stowe Drama department has had to offer. I think it has been one of the busiest, the most engaging, and at times, Northampton and Stowe itself; ones that particularly stick in the and their talents in the Stowe Drama department – and memory include Kneehigh’s inventive reworking of ‘Brief I am truly grateful for all the input and support from the most frustrating, parts of my two years here! My first play was ‘Be My Baby’ and this was quickly followed by our AS level practical Encounter’, RedCape with ‘The Idiot Colony’ and a superbly funny Mr Bayley and Mr Walters. I highly recommend exam, where we were encouraged to produce a very physical and pretty disturbing extract from ‘The Trojan Women’. Mr Bayley then ‘Comedy of Errors’ at the RSC. The support I have been given over Congreve to anyone – even if you’re not an aspiring cast me as May in ‘The Hired Man’ where I had to sing a solo song. The atmosphere and team spirit in that company was fantastic and the last five years has been constant. I cannot hope to thank Mr actor, there is nothing more fulfilling than working on we were all really proud of what had been produced. Everything seemed so professional, with a fantastic set, authentic costumes and Bayley and Mr Walters enough for their superb dedication to the something with a group of people, developing it, and brilliant backstage support. This year I had great fun playing a comedy role in ‘Darlings! You were Wonderful’ and then had the chance department, where they nurture and challenge us all to take risks, seeing it take flight. Speaking of flight, if I had to pick to really stretch myself by playing Duckling in ‘Our Country’s Good’. Performing in this Congreve production was such an exciting and think differently about our own expectations and abilities and most a favourite memory, it would probably be Alex Miarli’s challenging experience as I was pushed to play a role that two years ago would have been way out of my depth. My last performance at importantly, get up and do it, rather than talk everything to death! stage dive in last year’s ‘The Hired Man’. I don’t have Stowe was with the work I did for the A2 practical in March and again I loved the chance to work creatively with my fellow classmates I have been accepted at the Oxford School of Drama for September space to explain it here, but it’s a good story. Seriously, and teachers. I am hoping to study French at Leeds University when I leave Stowe but I plan to keep up my interests in acting and to start my professional training and I cannot wait for the next set ask him. Oh and thanks in advance Mr Bayley for NEVER being involved with a production. of challenges that lie ahead! putting any Congreve footage on the Internet... yet!

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“Earth’s White Fur Coat”

A smooth gelid drape rolls over the mountains, trees and lakes, Trapping the warmth of summer to create a frigid beauty. This coat begins to reshape acres of wilderness into a snowy Elysium. Olive painted pillars conceal the beasts of the winter. Even the bear mighty as it may be must hide from the test of the cold. The oases in the snowy desert are now sealed off by sapphire ice. Lily Newman, Upper Sixth Charlotte Bradshaw, Lower Sixth Torrents of furious water now trapped in time.

With this frosty grasp comes a holy silence, that many dream of but never hear. This white pearl untouched by the corruption of technology is one of nature’s last supreme homes. This is the enigmatic charm of winter.

Paul Henkel, Fourth Form

Matthew Corless, Upper Sixth

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The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award

Once again this year has seen a large Golds at them over the course of the Expedition. The Assessed Expedition to the Brecon quickly demonstrated the importance of a their Assessed Expeditions…now all Our external instructors commented that they need to do is to get the rest of number of Stoics ready to take on the The Gold Expeditions started in October Beacons certainly showed how wet the good sleeping bag and packing enough challenge of the Duke of Edinburgh’s this is the strongest Gold group they have the paperwork signed off to complete with a training expedition to Shropshire Welsh hills can be. The groups had their warm clothing! A lack of water was not the Award Scheme and this year’s Expedition seen for a long time at Stowe – praise issue on the Assessed Expedition to their Awards! for those new to the Award. The season navigation skills put to the test with very season has certainly been challenging! indeed! A special mention should also go Shropshire in April – the Great British started as it meant to continue with rain low visibility and heavy rain, but despite Of course none of these Expeditions is I am often asked to nominate a Star of the to the two groups who finished their four Summer had started properly by then and and high winds putting the participants to the conditions they successfully possible without the commitment and Expedition – this is exceptionally difficult day Expedition by summiting Ben MacDui the Fourth Form participants certainly the test. The Practice Expedition to completed the expedition. I hope that expertise of the staff who volunteer to as each participant faces different and Cairn Gorm! had their kit and campcraft skills tested by Dartmoor did provide some sunshine to many of this group are planning on help support the students and staff the personal challenges to complete two days of torrential rain! Undaunted by cheer everybody up, however very low continuing to complete the Gold Award. Expeditions. Huge thank yous for your expeditions of this nature: some impress Silvers the conditions, the groups impressed temperatures and a touch of snow time and support go to Mr Pickersgill, with their navigational skills, others by The Silver Expeditions were run by A to Z their assessors with their navigation skills provided enough of a challenge to keep Bronze Mr Moller, Mr Aston, Miss Donaldson, their leadership and teamwork, others Expeditions again this year and once again and teamwork and completed the Mrs McMahon, Mr Higham, Mr Falvey, everybody on their toes! The Gold The Bronze participants completed a impress simply by soldiering on and the participants impressed their Expedition in style. Mr Hearne, Mr Gabbatiss, Miss Green, Assessed Expedition to the Cairngorms comprehensive training programme over making it through! Suffice to say, all of this instructors with their commitment and Miss Ashe, Miss Palmer, Mr Lyle and of provided the usual challenges of midges the course of the year before embarking By the end of the final expedition in July, year’s participants have done particularly stamina. After a very successful Practice course our external instructors Simon and a lack of toilets, however this year the on their Practice Expedition to the 80 Fourth Formers, 24 Fifth Formers and well to cope with exceptionally adverse Expedition to Dartmoor one member of Rose, Steve Rogers, Philip Pitcher, Brian weather was more challenging than usual Cotswolds. Our main concern during the 24 of the Lower Sixth had completed the conditions on this year’s expeditions. the group foolishly boasted that they were Wagstaff and the guys from A to Z. and we were very impressed with the yet to see rain on any of their day in the Cotswolds was ensuring Expedition Section of their Awards, this is Here is a brief summary of this year’s manner in which the Stoics involved Expeditions… famous last words! plentiful supplies of water to combat the a massive achievement given the Mr Gwilym Jones challenges… coped with the amount of rain thrown March sun, however clear skies at night conditions that all participants faced on

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basic training of its cadets. In October, well as understanding the various roles Day formed the focus for much of the 13 cadets all successfully passed their .22 of the staff who support them. Pupils also Lent term training, and in the presence small bore weapons test, which further led visited the control tower, survival section of Captain Colin Welborn RN the team Stowe CCF: Army, RAF to them gaining Part 1 status. This allowed and fire-support, where hands-on successfully rigged a light jackstay to the section to attend two field days on RAF experience was provided at each. In mid transport essential stores across a yawning bases. In February, the section was invited June, four pupils were able to take chasm, represented by the ha-ha. At the to attend an open day held by the Army advantage of a gliding experience at VGS following march-past, led by Jamie Milne, and Naval Sections Air Corps at Wattisham Airbase, home of Abingdon. Mr Peverley is indebted to the the section distinguished itself with some the Apache Helicopters. The three hour support from Mrs Murnane and SNCO of the best marching in the contingent. with the level of enthusiasm and the very Stowe CCF and OC of Cheshire Company, session consisted of pupils watching a Cooper throughout the year. It is with immense pride With the Fifth Form heading off for their high standard of the average Stoic cadet Captain Ian Findlay-Palmer. Ian sets very short presentation on the use of the Mr Jonathan Peverley GCSE revision, the Fourth Formers made that I look back on a very and the imaginative training that all high standards and the cadets respond very Apache in Afghanistan, being able to their first visit to Portsmouth in April, and successful year for Stowe sections follow throughout the CCF action well to his style. He has been capably handle the current weapons used in Royal Naval Section saw first hand where Lord Nelson had School CCF. – packed year. assisted by 2nd Lt James Peppiatt. combat and talk to the military personnel who use them in day-to-day operation. The section has continued to offer cadets died. Several cadets will be off to Power- The Royal Navy section continues to Anderson Company (advanced infantry) However, the highlight was the a wide range of opportunities. At the Boating courses and the HMS Bristol camp When I assumed command two years ago, flourish under the excellent leadership has been well served and benefited opportunity to sit inside the cockpit of two beginning of the year we managed some during the summer. I set out a number of objectives to enhance of Lt David Critchley, ably assisted by immensely from the highly professional Apache helicopters and fully appreciate its sailing and kayaking on the 11 Acre Lake the attendance, training and bearing of the Sub Lt Julie Johnson who I’m pleased to input of Capt Simon Nelson-Lucas. His Sub Lt Johnson has returned from capabilities. In January, the arrival of Sarah before the weather forced us off the water, cadets. With the introduction of a formal say returned to us at the end of the imaginative and detailed training maternity leave, and is looking forward Murnane in the Geography department and our new Fourth Form recruits got parade, a coordinated training programme, academic year after her maternity leave. programmes have been a particular to resuming her role in the section, led to a boosting of staffing in the RAF down to the Able Seaman’s syllabus. a March and Shoot competition, a Drill With the assistance of adult instructors strength of Anderson Company and held while we say goodbye and thank you to section. Sarah comes from a RAF October saw a trip down to HMS Raleigh competition, a method of instruction Graham Eason-Bassett and David Tremain, the interest of the cadets very well indeed. background where she served in several where we had a rare opportunity to Miss Peel, who moves on to her next cadre, an annual parade followed by a the OC has delivered an excellent training Simon, a former Housemaster at a local operations as a Puma helicopter navigator. practise fire fighting and learn damage appointment. Thanks are also due to contingent photograph, the acquisition of a package and sets very high standards. prep school and a serving TA soldier, has She is able to bring a lot of relevant control in the DRIU simulator. Meanwhile Mr Eason-Bassett, Lt Tremaine, and CPO ferret armoured car and the introduction of David Critchley is also a resident guru on recently been appointed as the full-time experience and contacts with her. On the Bertie Grossart, Hugh Evans and Michael Blick, who have continued to bolster a diving section – leading to a qualification, all things Westminster – the MOD database 2nd i/c of the Stowe CCF and School March field-day, Sarah was responsible for Hill, all of whom had experience of a Navy the instructional team. it has been a very busy period of training! – a system we are all starting to use more Beadle. We are delighted at his the leading of the pupils to RAF Odiham CCF camp, formed a useful team of Junior I’m hugely indebted to all of the officers effectively. appointment and look forward to his to experience life as a Chinook pilot, as NCOs, assisted by Jamie Milne. Inspection Lt D J Critchley CCF RNR who freely give up their time to augment continued and enhanced input. The section has benefited the training. Due to the movement of staff hugely from the newly qualified Flight after my first year in post, we lost a number My final comments are thank the Lieutenant Jonathan Peverley. With the COLDSTREAM CUP 2011 (Results) of excellent officers at the beginning of this permanent staff, WO1 Ray Dawson and recent appointment of Sarah Murnane, year. Thankfully though, we have also CCF admin assistant Fraser Liversage. Both Run Shoot March & a former regular RAF helicopter navigator, Ray and Fraser have worked tirelessly over House Assault Course Ferret Pull Totals Position picked up some equally good officers in “March & Shoot” Shoot Totals motivation in the section is at an all-time the year to provide a first-class CCF for recent appointments, which is of course Bruce 4.04.98 7 24.33 4 128 3 (7) 1.15.15 11 25 7 high and is really set to fly! We have seen both the Cadets and Staff alike. the nature of these things. Field days for all Chandos 3.52.43 9 23.28 7 140 9 (16) 1.48.40 6 31 5 a significant improvement by the cadets sections this year, have included a testing Contingent Commander Lt Col J. L. Ing RMR Chatham 3.44.92 10 21.30 11 145 11 (22) 2.25.73 2 34 3= in terms of turnout, motivation and joint exercise at Yardley Chase, the hugely Cobham 3.27.87 12 24.09 5 145 11 (16) 1.38.26 7 35 2 general attitude. RAF Section successful Biennial Inspection here at Grafton 4.11.53 6 21.24 12 135 8 (20) 1.41.57 8 34 3= Stowe, where the cadets showed the Stowe The Army section’s Cheshire Company This year, with the commissioning of Grenville 4.04.87 8 22.31 9 135 8 (17) 2.02.44 3 28 6 CCF in a very good light and a range day on (recruits) has been extremely fortunate Jonathan Peverley as an officer, the RAF Temple 4.25.78 4 23.28 7 135 8 (15) 1.57.13 4 23 8 Pirbright Ranges. The Inspecting Officer for to benefit from the leadership of the section has been focussing its effort on the Walpole 3.31.21 11 21.54 10 150 12 (22) 1.53.70 5 38 1 our Biennial Inspection was very impressed outstanding second-in-command of the Lyttelton 4.48.84 1 25.34 2 130 5 (7) 1.07.71 12 20 2 Nugent 4.20.51 5 23.23 8 125 2 (10) 1.35.56 9 24 1 Queen’s 4.37.37 3 24.51 3 125 2 (5) DNF 1 9 4 Stanhope 4.47.09 2 26.55 1 130 5 (6) 1.18.51 10 18 3

Assault Course Record Run Record Girls 40.20.51 Nugent 2011 Girls 22.27.00 Lyttelton 2010 Boys 3.27.87 Cobham 2011 Boys 20.35.00 Walpole 2008

COLDSTREAM CUP WINNERS 2011 House Winner – Boys Walpole House Winner – Girls Nugent March & Shoot Walpole Ferret Pull Lyttelton Assault Course Cobham

106 The Stoic The Stoic 107 Activities S@S Activities Beagling Service at Stowe

This season we have been very fortunate in that we have had quite a mild winter in comparison to previous seasons, which means we have been able to enjoy more days out hunting where we would have otherwise been kept in by the bad weather. The season started out very well with the opening meet being held, as usual, at Weston, by the kind permission of Mr John Busby. The season then progressed well up until October, where the hounds enjoyed a change of scenery with the half-term trip to the Bannisters in Skipton, North Yorkshire, where two days of good hunting were enjoyed by all. This was followed by the Boxing Day meet in the middle of the Christmas holidays, which, as usual, brought out a large turnout of people showing their support. With the whips returning for the Lent term the season got back underway with the hunting carrying on as usual up until the February trip in half-term, where we went up to stay with Mr Henry Bowring at Kirkby Lonsdale in Cumbria, where we enjoyed a good supper and a good day’s hunting the following day, then travelling over to the Bannisters and repeating, the day’s hunting there being certainly one of the best this season. Closer to home, with the season winding down, we enjoyed a joint meet with the Black Combe, who travelled down all the way from Cumbria. The season then finally culminated with the Puppy show, which after a nine year absence was shown on the Bursar’s lawn. Tom Bannister judged and we were joined by many Old Stoics, including early masters Shaun Parsons and Martin Wood, as well as several recent beagling Old Stoics. With the season now finished there is little else to do other than wish good luck to the next group of joint masters, who will be hunting the pack next September, which marks the 50th year since the beagles started. I hope they enjoy it as much as I have. Thank you to all the landowners, whose land we hunt on, as well as the School and the Headmaster for their continuing support.

Harry Howard (Upper Sixth)

108 The Stoic The Stoic 109 Activities Activities Chapel

At once magnificent and intimate… are pictures and Bibles along with spiritual writings, imposing and inviting… immense and and initiatives from Christian Aid to relieve poverty. all-embracing – a place to be. This To colleagues, especially Miss Donaldson, and all those Temple of Christ stands boldly and who led midweek Chapel Services, Mr Simon Dearsley confidently in the midst of the School, (maestro) and Mr Huw Jones (organ-tamer extraordinaire) and their Choirs who work so hard and from the roof can be seen the to offer gorgeous sacred music – my deep thanks on diversity of buildings old and new, behalf of us all. To Jamie, Cameron, William, Joss and and the relationship between them – Alex who creatively amplify everything; to Rex for his sometimes in gracious harmony, organ-playing; to all our Stoic Prefects on the doors sometimes in surprising juxtaposition and Readers from the Lectern – very grateful thanks. – but always in relationship. To our wonderful House Maintenance team: all the furniture-moving, floor-polishing, litter-picking (they Chaplaincy was led initially by Miss Ellie Donaldson, shouldn’t need to do this), chair-straightening, assisted and supported by colleagues, and then by the safety-ensuring work is part of the ministry of this Revd Christopher Huxtable, appointed from January place – and much appreciated. 2012, as the new Chaplain. There have been many and Chapel is both a place and a concept – to enter into diverse preachers, some hearty hymn-singing, some the building is one thing; to enter into spiritual thoughtful reflection and a week-by-week encounter Crossfire thinking, prayer, questionings and so on, is another, with lines from the Lord’s Prayer. Candle-lit Advent and less defined than a building can be. The hope is opportunity for Stoics to ask some Carol Services were enthusiastically supported with Once again, it has been a that we can all ‘enter’ Chapel with an openness that of the Big Questions about God Stoics and Parents alike; Christians in Sport gave an wonderful privilege to be part of reflects something of the open heart of God. including: ‘What is God like?’ and ‘Can active perspective in Lent; the Riding Lights Roughshod the Christian meeting here at we truly know Him?’ This followed Theatre Company challenged us in drama one Sunday Revd. Christopher Huxtable, Chaplain Stowe. This year there has been with a trip to St Ebbe’s Church in evening; Confirmation in May was celebrated with the much growth and change, Oxford, meeting and reading the Bible Bishop of Buckingham, following weeks of preparation particularly with new members with the youth group. by Staff and Stoics alike. There have been concerts, recitals and assemblies. The Prep Schools’ Choral from the Third Form coming along. • The Summer term was based around Evensong was the most special and vibrant way to We congregate in the Blue Room, with ‘Living the Christian Faith’ which start the Summer term; and the inspirational visit of exciting snacks to begin with, followed by meant looking at the different aspects the Dominican Convent School Choir was a stirring a talk and an opportunity to ask different of Faith. It has been interesting having and spectacular gift. Seven languages (Armenian, questions. Crossfire is a group open to all different speakers shed light on what it means to know Jesus Christ. Bulgarian, Spanish, Xhosa, Zulu, Hindi, Afrikaans) of year groups, from different backgrounds seven Stoics contributed to Pentecost with a difference. and beliefs with the chance to explore Crossfire aims to provide an atmosphere Has it all been predictable? I think not, and certainly individual faiths, to ask questions about which is warm and welcoming. It is great hope not! life and learn about Jesus Christ and how to see Stoics mingling amongst the year he is relevant in our lives. groups and developing long lasting The portable holy Table is now in service in the Nave, friendships. The highlight for many is the opening up the Sanctuary and the Altar, and also the This year we have looked at different offer of Krispie Kremes and homemade little book of personal prayers. A Paschal Candle, lit aspects of the Christian faith: snacks which are consumed in large each Sunday, now encourages an invitation to share • We kicked off in the Michaelmas term quantities! It has been wonderful to see in the hope of the Easter Faith in Jesus Christ. The with the theme of Jesus’ Seven ‘I am’ the faith of students developing and we Chaplain’s stoles add a splash of colour, to match the sayings from St John’s Gospel. This are grateful to the guest speakers who glory of the flowers lovingly arranged by Clare Hill enabled us to gain a better give talks which are carefully constructed Hall. Contemplative Holy Communion has been understanding of these claims and to and challenging. We also look forward to celebrated in the Nave, and particularly enjoined with know more of Jesus’ character and taking a large group of Stoics on Iwerne Ashing on Ash Wednesday in the early morning and at what this means to us today. Holidays which is happening in the night. A refreshed Order of Service for Sundays has summer. been worshipped with, and in the Prayer Room there • In the Lent term, we welcomed a team from Oxford who offered an Miss Ellie Donaldson

110 The Stoic The Stoic 111 Creative Writing Gallery

Cup of confusion

Quarter past two on a Tuesday afternoon… Where has the time gone? The light flickers and the water stains on the ceiling lose contrast. People bustle past. They’re all so busy; they all have somewhere to go. I could sit here for days. Nobody would miss me. There’s no one I need to see, nowhere I have to be. Lives are lotteries; if you end up happy it’s entirely down to luck. The shabby décor becomes more obvious now. The tacky black vinyl with bubblegum pink accent is not “vibrant” or “cheerful” anymore. It’s loud and impersonal and offensively unfashionable. Life has become a chore. Once you lose your purpose, everything you enjoyed, everyone you loved, all that made absolute sense becomes distorted and confusingly unsatisfactory. It’s raining now; wind-driven, angry rain, which lashes the windows. The water finds a gap and spurts through, an unstoppable tide, onto my table. Poseidon has travelled far to punish me. I stand up and begin to push the window down… it’s heavy. My hands are getting soaked and the big, heavy droplets seep into my jumper, darkening the grey polyester. The window eventually succumbs to pressure but I’m left surprisingly out of breath, a shadow of my former self. I lower my body back into the worn and dirty chair and eye up the Mocha Frappuccino in front of me. Why did I order this? Why did I come here? I guess I had nothing else to do. My mind is frazzled like it’s always been. It’s as if a layer of smoke lines my memory and my consciousness. Four pills a day make the fog disappear. Depression kicks in as I begin to remember the details of my life. Then as the medication wears off, the distorting fog of ignorance descends again, to occupy my addled brain. Yet, it’s a relief to be protected from a reality I can no longer face. Betrayed in love, I settled for second best: a woman with limited ambitions for herself and for me, and the kids… well, I always felt remote from them, no similar interests, no common ground. Claire Langer, Upper Sixth They were her children, my part in their existence purely functional. I look at the new mother sitting parallel to me, tired yet bright-eyed and full of purpose. I remember that feeling. What was my purpose now? A father? A husband? Hardly. It had all seemed so exciting, so promising, as a drama student at Bristol University… But a failed acting career was followed by a mediocre banking career: achieving the dizzy heights of assistant branch manager by the age of 62, before retiring with only a silver plated carriage clock to show for it all. Strange how when I left home, my opinions became even more bizarre, more obscure. Like an automaton, I walked up the drive, a grey plastic suitcase in either hand mirroring the leaden sky. My brother’s long, thin apprehensive face. “This is just temporary”. It was, it really was. Unfortunately after his death his will was lost, so naturally I took the house. A beautiful, Georgian house. At least it was. I don’t care much for manicured gardens or hospital clean bathrooms and I’m certainly not trying to impress anyone. Gazing at a mass-produced photograph on the wall, New York City rush hour traffic. In black and white except two taxis which remain yellow. Same as millions everywhere. Serves no purpose, more people are frustrated than enthused by it. When I was 22, I left Bristol to become an actor. I had seen an ad in a local paper for an audition for a low budget play in a small community theatre. I was starting small but surely I was on my way to stardom. As I entered I saw a hundred others like me, nervous but keen. I waited for six hours for my turn to perform. After I was turned down, I demanded to know the reason: I had a drama degree and the potential to be a major talent! They simply said that there were 106 other people with drama degrees and talent. This set the precedent for the next six years of my life. Working on a burger stand, 10% of my wages going towards paying off my student loan, 90% for living expenses. From then I coasted. Why bother trying when you’re destined to fail? It’s getting late. I should be getting back, though I have nothing to do and there’s nothing I want to watch on TV. My chair creaks. I open the door into the bustling shopping arcade – Christmas decorations in mid-October. Sickening. Jamie Wace, Lower Sixth

Idil Savaskan, Upper Sixth

112 The Stoic The Stoic 113 Sport Sport

sportstowe Sport Sport

talisman who understands how to win. In the scrum and gave us an excellent platform. individual efforts. On the wings, Josh Maziak second row after returning unfit Tristan Loose forwards Archie Nesbitt and Archie and Alex Hambro Rabben both showed their Phipps grew into his body and partnered Walters combined with Tristan Phipps and Alex worth, with Maziak ending the top try scorer Jordan Onojaife whose 6ft 6in stature and Levitt-Scrivener to give the backs an excellent and Hambro Rabben proving the difference focused approach earned him a call up into 2nd XV platform on most occasions. Hugo Barran against Bromsgrove with two interceptions the England U17s squad and a regular spot in Rugby captained the side excellently from fly-half, that basically won the match. Overall an the Saints Academy side. Pending injury the The 2nd team enjoyed an excellent season and and Nick Paine, James Barnett and Charlie excellent season and Mr Durrant and I both back row consisted of Oscar Page who we improved every week both in performance thoroughly enjoyed it. Sergeant all were dangerous every week in the Away at Loughborough we struggled with our missed badly for his ball winning ability, and effort. We started with a difficult lesson centre, with Sergeant scoring some amazing Mr Charlie Barker and Mr Barney Durrant decision making, a feature that was to be the Courtney Raymond at blindside offers so from Oakham, but from there it was just up Achilles heel of the side. An enormous drop much athleticism and power from the base, and up every week, with the high point a close Harry Consett provides an aerial threat at the 2nd XV 2012 goal from just inside the opposition half from 27-22 victory against an arguably better 1st XV Jake Olley calmed more frayed nerves. The lineout and never tires whilst the only ever Bromsgrove side, but the spirit and desire the next three fixtures against Akeley Wood in the present amongst them and vice captain, Played 13; Won 9; Drew 1; Lost 3 James Clark, was a dependable and consistent boys forged together throughout the season Cup, St Edward’s and Trent saw the side held up and they took a massive scalp with amass 157 points to only 19 against. A costly performer throughout the season. that victory. Other pleasing victories came statistic in that this and the other results At the start of the season scrum-half looked to With the fixture list strengthened by the against Uppingham, Trent and St Edward’s, against St Edward’s caused our neighbours to be a weakness but Ollie Plunket grew into the presence of Whitgift, Bromsgrove and and victory was just missed against the mighty Warwick the squad knew it had to hit the cease fixtures for the time being. spot and became one of the side’s strengths. Whitgift when a bouncing ball would just not ground running to gain any momentum. After Ben Nichols at fly-half has an abundance of The fixture that will sadly remain in many of sit up for Henry Rudd; had it done so, Whitgift a good pre-season in Ireland, Oakham were the players’ memories was the next round of skill and although directing the side proved a would be on that list. The 2nds ended with a the first opponents, a fixture we have never the Daily Mail Cup. In a match that we challenge his defence was resolute. We never very positive record of eight wins and four won away. Leading for much of the match dominated from start to finish we missed really resolved the number 12 slot and pending injury and availability Jake Olley Stowe fell behind to a late penalty three several try scoring opportunities and kicks at losses, with many honorable mentions for the showed glimpses of real promise there but his minutes from time but an air of confidence goal and we drew 3-3. Aylesbury went through players. Starting at the front Roddy favoured position is fullback where he was underpinned this squad and when Jake Olley on the away rule. Sadly the players know they Blackburne, Frank Kilsby and Arthur more confident. James Barnett had the kicked a 40 m penalty with the last kick of the missed an opportunity to repeat the feats of Hobhouse all had stints propping up the © R & H Chapman Photography physical presence to do the job but needed to game we knew we had another heart the last two years and for many this hollow believe in himself more. Seb Clarke was stopping but successful season ahead. feeling will act as a stark reminder of consistent in his performances on the left while conceding only four tries before a tight effort and there were several players who were Whitgift who were the reigning Daily Mail Cup squandering opportunities. Sport has that wing and due to injury we had a mixture of game allowed Uppingham to come close before crucial to the whole team functioning well. In Champions for the last two years were always ability to teach some very harsh lessons. George Jones who showed promise, Brodie Stowe edged it 29-27. The final game against a particular Henry Murray and Wyn Clayton going to be a measure of our recent progress. Against a very powerful Bromsgrove outfit we Smith who floated between the wing and strong Warwick side saw Stowe slip to their enjoyed rampaging through the opposition After 25 minutes it was nil nil and although we suffered from the hangover of the mishap in fullback with equal effect and Henry Rudd 3rd XV third loss going down 12-29. forwards – on one occasion someone spotted were under pressure we were giving as good the Cup and were well beaten 24-3. The who blossomed at the tail of the season. Wyn passing the ball but it’s still unconfirmed. as we got. Two silly errors cost us dear after season had the potential to come off the rails There were individual efforts that should be Cameron Roberts had a make over in rugby Played 10; Won 7; Drew 0; Lost 3 Jamie Lemos was a titan, often the focal player half-time and a late try flattered our guests mentioned of course. At one end of the team but they re-grouped and an edgy win against terms, having played back row in his previous for all the other forwards to bind onto. but a 29-12 reversal didn’t tell the whole story. old rivals Uppingham 11-10 gave them four years he moved to outside centre and was fullback Kit Dixon-Smith who this season This has been a strong season for the 3rd XV seemed to score at will. Sides that were In the backs Will Jones at scrum-half gave Mill Hill provided an opportunity to regain renewed confidence. Still fragile and with key made a very good job of it, becoming the with some incredible performances both from foolhardy enough to kick the ball often saw excellent delivery of the ball and his the scoring habit, a comfortable 47-7 win saw players missing, the side went to Warwick for leading try scorer and skipper. His style was individuals and from the whole team. The Dixon-Smith catch it, look up and speed off organisation and understanding of the game us through to exeat. Oundle were undefeated the first time and not without some unorthodox and flamboyant and although he record for the season speaks volumes for the before scoring under the posts. This happened meant that when opportunities were on, tries and after a slow start we found ourselves a try apprehension, however an interception in the may have lacked a killer instinct, his talent and effort that the players made a lot! normally resulted. Fred Elliot took a few down but then we exerted our authority and first minute gave them self belief and in the confidence and determination to take on this throughout. Seven victories out of ten matches matches to feel completely confident at fly-half we turned defence into attack for a brilliant end the side played some of its more position for someone who is deaf is the mark At the other end of the team was Mungo with winning margins over 24 points in five of but very soon looked at ease and combined solo try by skipper Cameron Roberts, a controlled rugby winning 24-11. The whole of the man and he will no doubt be a leader in Akerman who also seemed to spend a great deal those games. The three losses were tight games well with centres Brogan Smith, who seemed to conversion and two penalties saw us stretch squad were able to enjoy a last run out on the other fields in the future. of time running through players (often with North Front against the Royal Latin finishing and Stowe was competitive throughout. make gaps appear at will, and captain Charlie to a 13-7 lead but some ill discipline and a Some years you have more injuries than them hanging off his back). Mungo recorded a off in style with a 48-10 victory. Cox, who then sailed through them. lack of thought allowed Oundle to scrape two others and this year proved to be a bad one. With a history of being slow starters to the couple of tries but seemed to be happier With a majority of the players in the Lower penalties to pull level at half-time. Two more The front row of Frank Kilsby, Tom Baylis and At various stages the following were missing, season, the first match away at Oakham was knowing that he’d bludgeoned his way through Sixth, the signs look very positive for another penalties for the hosts in the second half gave Henri Da Costa provided a strong platform up Kilsby, Da Costa, Onojaife, Raymond, Consett, always going to be tough and eventually was lost some poor winger who had had vain hopes of impressive season next year. Coaches Hart and them the honours in what was a titanic school front. Losing Kilsby to a shoulder injury Page, Jones, Smith, and Clarke all missed by two points – what we wouldn’t have given to bringing him down. Blewitt are already planning victory speeches… boy fixture. against Trent was costly. Da Costa was a sections of the season, all key players. Lads have played them again later in the season… However consistently performing well (and who came in and made significant Our next match was Whitgift, a new fixture for winning matches) is purely down to full team Mr Damian Blewitt 1st XV 2012 contributions were Arthur Hobhouse at Stowe and the toughest fixture. Stowe played loosehead prop, and Jamie Wace at open side. with aplomb and style closing Whitgift down 3rd XV 2012 There were also cameo roles from many other with some hard tackling (Ben Rimmel upending players who stepped up to the plate and their star player in what might be the tackle of contributed when called upon; in total 37 the season) and pressure in all areas of the field boys represented the 1st team this year. eventually running out victors. This victory was Mr Hayden stepped into Mr Durrant’s shoes even more impressive as the 3rds were the only as forwards coach. He spent a lot of time side to beat Whitgift across all year groups. A looking up to what was a massive schoolboy comfortable win against Mill Hill (46-0) and a pack but he was able to eyeball each one weak display against a well organised Oundle when they needed guidance and confidence. team saw us lose our second game (5-15). My thanks to him, Mr Barker and Mr Durrant Stowe then embarked on a golden run winning who helped coach the senior squads with me. the next five matches on the bounce. LGS, Teddies, Habs and Bromsgrove were swept © R & H Chapman Photography © R & H Chapman Photography Mr Alan Hughes aside, with Stowe scoring a total of 145 points

116 The Stoic The Stoic 117 Sport Sport

way they came back in this game and with a managed to get over the Oundle line, the go over under the posts. Pettifer took his Robinson, having sucked in the Uppingham little more luck could have sneaked a result ball was held up and Oundle held on to win time over the conversion and slotted it dead back row, found a gap and dived over for but in the end went down 12-5. Paul Barker by 4; 22 points to 18. This was a great game centre; 10-7 at half-time. Lawal managed to the equalising try. Pettifer then converted to 4th XV 5th XV had an outstanding game in the 2nd row to of rugby played between two committed drop the ball over the try line before give Stowe a slender lead. Uppingham claim Man of the Match. teams. Man of the match: Sam Tottenham. Henriques dived over in the corner to rallied well and Stowe’s inability to roll away Played 8; Won 4; Lost 4 Played 6; Won 4; Lost 2 secure a 12-10 victory. Ed Pettifer was after the tackle resulted in a string of The next match at Oundle took place on a The word was now beginning to get around immense in this game and claimed the penalties against, hence even more glorious hot and sunny day. Henriques, that ‘the’ team to play for was the ‘Mighty Man of the Match award. desperate tackling. When Uppingham could Due to the number of boys playing rugby Due to the encouraging numbers of Senior Pettifer, Baldwin and Tottenham all had 5ths’. The players started to crave for more not get through the Stowe defence they this season, we could field up to five teams, boys present at training at the start of the their first starts for the 5th XV this season. In the last match of the season the 5th XV fixtures as they were enjoying their rugby so tried to go over but every time they did they with the 4th team being perhaps not as season we were able to field a 5th XV in the Stowe started brightly creating a good travelled to Uppingham with 15 players due much. A home fixture against Cheltenham met the advancing flying flanker and Man of successful as they should have been on first match of the season at Oakham. drop-goal opportunity which captain Clarke to some late illness and injuries. Kirk Blair was arranged which was welcomed by the the Match Bartolomé who managed to paper. Some mixed results showed that the Oakham found it difficult to cope with took in his stride. Oundle then converted a and Theo Gregson made their debut players, having been on the road for the charge the ball down. Stowe scored a try quality of rugby depended upon their Stowe’s fluent passing interchanges. Quality try to take the lead but the bounce of a appearances and quickly slipped into the opening three matches. Lawal sliced from nothing when Henriques capitalised mentality on match days. We had some tries from Hawke, Lawal (2) and Robinson Pettifer kick and chase out of his 22 fell 5th XV ‘never say die’ attitude. The game through the Cheltenham defence to register on an Uppingham handling error mid-way quality players, constantly pushing 3rd XV helped the team to a 22-5 victory away from nicely into the hands of the chasing Lawal was more or less won and lost in the first the first try and Watson scored the second into the Stowe half and managed to slip the places, but the good players from the 5th who went over near the uprights. The half. Stowe played into a gale force wind home. Highlight of the game was Freddie before half-time. Tries from Lawal, Raeburn ball to Lawal who skipped past the first line XV being reluctant to move up! Early losses missed conversion attempt would prove and spent a good 75% of the first half Benyon’s tap tackle on Oakham’s flying (2) and Clarke sealed a fine 40-0 victory with of defence and once he was clear there was to Oakham, Harrow and Oundle made the costly. Oundle went over again to regain the defending in the 22. At half-time the boys winger. Lowlight of the game was Freddie Jack Raeburn collecting Man of the Match. no stopping him and he made no mistake first half of the season disappointing, but lead but Stowe were not finished yet. In the were in buoyant mood knowing that their Benyon’s attempted drop kick conversion this time about grounding the ball properly the boys stepped up to record some second Robinson scored after some great The 5th XV were honoured to be playing on first half performance, if matched in the and Oscar Cole was Man of the Match. to win the game 12-5. fantastic wins against stiff opposition. sniping at the base of a ruck in the the North Front against the 3rd XV of MCS, second half would surely give them the Thrashings of St Edward’s and Bromsgrove The next match was an away trip to opposition’s 22. Stowe led 13-12 but Oundle Oxford. The posters around school seemed edge in this match. From the kick off It was a real pleasure coaching such an were great to see, and the season Marlborough. The team got off to a dreadful once again found a way over and converted to have captured the imagination of the Pettifer angled his kick beautifully into the enthusiastic group of players. I’m sure culminated in a good win against Warwick, start conceding two tries in the first ten to make the score 19-13. Robinson was once Stoics as the spectators flocked onto the bottom corner of Uppinham’s 22. From they will not forget this season of rugby in with many boys playing their final rugby minutes. The team continued to press for again in the right place at the right time to North Front and witnessed a pulsating game Uppingham’s line-out which was not a hurry. match for Stowe – what a fine way to end that elusive try and finally got through in finish off a fine handling move in the corner of rugby. Stowe went 10-0 down; however, straight, Stowe opted for the scrum 15 your rugby career! the last play of the game when Ed Robinson to bring Stowe to within a point. Stowe then with moments to go before half-time a ‘Gary metres in field. Brown at number eight Mr Isaac Michael slipped over the line after a quick tap gave away a silly penalty in front of goal Owen’ from Pettifer bounced kindly for the picked up and went open. He managed to Mr Brian Hart penalty. The team should be proud of the which was converted and although Stowe chasing backs and Lawal picked up neatly to slip the ball to scrum-half and captain Colts A Colts A 2012 Colts B Colts B 2012

The Colts A began their season with an This season was eagerly anticipated as the intense 2 days of training at Stowe at the squad looked for revenge on the only two beginning of September. This was followed matches that were lost last year; this duly by a pre-season tournament away at Blundells arrived with ‘The Band of Brothers’ which definitely acted as a wake-up call for demolishing St Edward’s and ultimately the players. They realised this would be a winning a much tighter game against season of hard work, with improvement Oundle. These results demonstrated the needed and one which would required an continued improvement made by this excellent attitude to achieve the goals set talented side; a team that I hugely

by the coaches. © R & H Chapman Photography appreciated being allowed to coach for the It is a credit to the players that these were all However, it is probably the 2 losses of the All the players this year are worthy of praise second year. The boys played an exciting shown regularly throughout the season. season which will be remembered the most and a special mention must go to Max running game consistently displaying great for the excellent manner in which the team Marston who captained the team superbly all ambition but could be fragile in contact and The season will be remembered for famous played, despite ultimate defeat. The Colts season. In addition, Drew Todd, James Hill, against the new, tougher fixtures (Whitgift, victories against Oakham (65-0), Uppingham travelled down to the all conquering Whitgift Edzai Soper Gwatidzo, Charlie Mason and Warwick and Uppingham) this weakness away, (10-5), Bromsgrove away (42-7), and gave them arguably one of the best George Jackman had fantastic seasons ably proved their undoing where we struggled Oundle (37-24) and St Edward’s away supported by Harry Dixon-Smith, Fergus games of their season, narrowly losing by a to get our hands on the ball. Too many (27-25). These hard fought wins highlighted score, however the effort and application on Edwards, Alex Stone, Myles Coe, Will players made their mark for all to be named © R & H Chapman Photography a great strength in depth within the squad show that day was tremendous. The other is Chatamra and Ryan Eveleigh amongst others. but no report would be complete without especially when injuries struck during the Warwick at home. Warwick came with an season as first choice flanker! Looking Assistant Coach, Mr Malling, and to the Mr Moffat and I thoroughly enjoyed the battle of Haberdashers’. But they also the mention of the dogged determination extremely strong reputation at Colts age company of the boys who will form the forward as they move on to the senior game many parents who supported us; their emphasised the free flowing rugby that was group, and had the Colts managed to get displayed by the captain Harry Pettifer, the backbone of a strong Senior squad next I feel confident that many will feature in the welcome presence on the touchline added played and the dogged defence which physical prowess of Francis Smiley at number into the game early the one score deficit at season. much to the season. became ever present characteristics of the the end could again have easily been turned 8 and the extraordinary capability of Hugo top sides in the years to come. I would also team this season. around into a famous win. Mr Michael Rickner and Mr Gavin Moffat Hiley who from being a star back ended the like to express my gratitude both to my Mr Ian Findlay-Palmer

118 The Stoic The Stoic 119 120 what aseason. down onthewhitewash.Whata team,and attempted tacklesonthewayto touching as heimposedhisdominationon fearful andmademanyahardhit bounding runs who scoredcountlesstrieswithhis outstanding playerofallwasAlexisLazareff onthewing.Themost performances Morgan andGuyRichesallgavesterling fullback whilstNickWhitmore,Hannington Coxwasasolidlastlineofdefenceat Henry Kemal EyiandTobin Millsinthecentre. gathered inbythelikes ofJackVestey, created evenmorewithhiscrosskicks, accuracy. Forde and scoredmanyatry creative imaginationandexceptional of anoutstandingCteamfly-half, with any teamandTom Forde hadthemakings which toworkhismagic.Akey positionin half andgaveTom Forde agoodballfrom through opposition’sdefencesatscrum- theirway burrowed Grossart Bertie Perske Harrison consistent efforts. and game oftheseasonasaduerewardforhis achieved acalluptotheBteamforlast doublehisweightand against boysoften Toby Wightman madesomehugehits position. Wightman allworked wellattheflanking MatthewHarvey,Barnes, andToby well.Williamand cleanedouttherucks and LouisPalmer stability gavethescrum hooker positionwellwhilstTimon White andChrisParsonsonPryse handledthe at closerangeagainstWarwick. Matthew hat-trick oftrieswithsomepowerrunning the frontofpack,withAlexscoringa at Jamie Milneallplayedsometoughrugby superb. AlexFitzjohn, CameronPower and and theirtechnicalworkatthelineoutwas dominatedoppositionscrums The forwards front intheheatofbattle. Rollo Chad,acaptainwholedfromthe Oundle. Theteamwasleadsuperblyby traditional rivalssuchasUppinghamand managed toinflictmammothvictoriesover opposition Cteamsplayedagainst,and year. Theyremainedunbeatenagainstall everplayedatthislevel best rugby The ColtsCTeam producedsomeofthe Colts C The StoicThe Sport Mr MarkBlew strong rugby heritage,theboyswere strong rugby asournextopponent.Boasting a Whitgift astheimpressivefixturelistoffered worried to beournextproblem:theyneednothave How couldtheboysfollowthiswasgoing outstanding individualseason. glimpse ofwhatwastobeaquite quite superbinthefirstgamegivingusa strong physicalityupfront.GeorgeSilkwas rugby, involvingintricatebacksmovesand displayofrunning produced awonderful was clinicallydispatched40-0.Theboys On asunnydayupattheBourbon,Oakham week back,andtheboysdidnotdisappoint. couldbeheardintrainingthefirst Saturday’ developed, criesof‘Cannotwaituntil eager toshowhowmuchtheyhad frompre-seasontheboyswere Returning could beseeningamesthroughouttheyear. top qualitysessions,evidenceofwhich invaluable withtheboysbeingexposedto British Lion.Thisexperienceproved Ashton himselfandMarkRegan,aformer in Normandy, coaching from withexpert August, Camp attheBrianAshtonrugby allthewaybackin The seasonstarted achieved throughschoolsport. demonstrating therealjoythatcanbe teamspirit, season displayingawonderfull boys astoundedusallwitharemarkable level oftalentthroughoutthesquad,but have astrongshowingthisseasonwiththe The JuniorColtsAwerealwaysdestinedto Colts C2012 Junior ColtsA at Bromsgrove, the boys produced a stirring at Bromsgrove,theboysproducedastirring disappoint: watchedbyalargevocalcrowd be closeandhardfought.Thegamedidnot matchwould the boysknewthisparticular had asimilarseasontousatthisstageand against BromsgroveSchool.had Next upcameourtoughestgameoftheyear talents. his rugby farwith has theall-roundgametogovery Aitchison,aplayerwho Ifeel captain Murray School 53-0,includingahat-trickbyour who webeat57-3,followedbySibford week. We againstBloxham beganourrun boys hadtheDailyMailCupduring On topofourregularSaturdaygames,the team soyoung. commitment anddesireisararesightin conceded asingletry, Ifeltthatthistime annoyed theboyswerethattheyhad remarkable featuresofthisgamewashow St Edward’sOxford75-5.Oneofthemost Loughborough 20-0andquiteremarkably Mill Hill75-0,Ousedale53-0,Oundle27-3, The nextfewweeksbroughtbigwinsagainst they played. game the boysstrovetogetbetterevery a sidetheyactuallywere,andfromthenon moment thattheboysrealisedhowgood thegamewas defeat. Ibelieveafter late,andmanagedaclose10-0 arrived ‘urban scenic’routethroughLondon,we themselves. After whatIcanonlycallthe undaunted andwereconfidentoftesting

© R & H Chapman Photography the JuniorColtsAside. all beenpressinghardforplaces in Rougierwhohave andBarth Hulbert Roxburgh, JamieAngle,William from Kyle Browne,Tom Young, Rex havecome Notable performances week. onwards andupwardevery giving theirallfortheschoolgoing together, playerintheside withevery and gamesalike. They haveplayed on theirproblemareasintraining their coacheshavesaidandworking extremely well,takingonboardwhat a teamtheyhaveprogressed and Warwick by onlyafewpoints.As strongsidesfromWhitgift to twovery outstanding seasonlosingonlytwice The JuniorColtsBhaveenjoyedan in the sunshine was a wonderful occasion in thesunshinewasawonderful FrontHaving thewholeSchoolonNorth next inthequarter-final ontheNorth Front. finalists, were Lymm HighSchool,lastyear’s winning thematch17-12. who scored18triesintotal,eventually Paul, machinePepera, Silkandtheteam’stry through tries Ihaveseeninschoolboyrugby as aspectacleandproducedthreeofthebest floodlights. Theboysseemedtorisethis game atSaracenstraininggroundunder a quarter-final spot.StAlbansplayedtheir were toachievingsomethingquitespecial, the boysbegantorealisehowclosethey St Albanswerenextintheseventhround: tackle. in thismatchmakingtackleafter were quitesuperballseason,butparticularly Cecil andKeith inthesecondrow Harrington Seb 17-5 withanalmightydefensiveeffort. again theboysdidnotdisappoint,winning play.their defenceandclosequarter Once In preparationforthis,theboysworked on what weactuallygotwasalmostamonsoon. whichforecastrain; the weatherreports, All duringtheweekMrSuttonandIwatched time tobeplayedawayatLoughborough. rematch withLoughboroughGrammar, this Academy players.Thisbroughtabouta who hadalargecontingentofGloucester Frontwin ontheNorth againstChosenHill, The DailyMailcontinuedwithatough12-7 the corner. in towinwithalastminutetry performance Junior ColtsB Mr Tom Higham Junior ColtsB2012 Silk andWill Pepera. thewell Unfortunately half-time triesbyGeorge throughwonderful playofRGS.Stowewereleading at forward asacontrasttothestrong rugby running skilled affair, withStoweproducingthe long time.Thegamewasacloseandhighly experience onetheywouldrememberfora meetings andateammealtomake the to anightawayinhotel,withteam venue atBroadstreet.Theboysweretreated Wycombe. Thegamewasplayedataneutral Buckinghamshire derbyagainstRGSHigh This broughtustothesemi-finalstageanda 26-13 win. and contributedtomotivatetheboysona Junior ColtsA2012 season of which the boys can be very proud. season ofwhichtheboyscanbevery across thecircuitthisyear. Awonderful and dazzledplayers,coachesparents behind abacklinewhoalwaysthreatened must gotoMrSuttonasthemastermind desperate tofulfiltheirpotential.Thanks with boyswhoarekeen toimproveandso the year. Ihavethoroughlyenjoyedworking commitment shownbytheboysthroughout a realcredittothehardwork,skilland showinginthesemi-final was This wonderful second halfshowingtowinthematch17-12. producedastrong drilled RGSforwards The StoicThe Mr DanFalvey Sport 121

© R & H Chapman Photography © R & H Chapman Photography © R & H Chapman Photography amassing 75 points in the season), ably amassing 75pointsintheseason),ably Spooner (Felix scoringinallmatchesbarone, Simpson, TheoShepherd-SmithandFelix James line-busters includingPierre Carrelet, Keeping, outtooneofanumbergreat talented handsandfeetofEdElliottJack accurate passing,throughtheequally andpinpoint ledwithunruffled Curran andcaptainMonty schools. Scrum-half Team NationalLeague,whichcounted42 Colts CwerelistedastopoftheUnder15 On theSchools’RugbywebsiteJunior there theywonthesecondhalfconvincingly. andeven (athreehourjourney), to Whitgift and wonten.Thematchtheylostwasaway The JuniorColtsCplayedelevenmatches Yearlings A 122 53 pointsscoredbytheteam.CharltonKerr power, betweenthemtheyscored36ofthe all boysblessedwithexceptionalpaceand Shaun Coker andFraser EllisJenkinsonare It isasidethathaslotofpace.Tony Kuku, the match. when theyhadtoscoretwicerecover being anawaydrawatStamford15-15 went undefeated,theonlyslightblemish For thethirdyearinarowYearlings A Colts C Junior Yearlings A2012 Played 10;Won 9;Drew1;Lost0 Played 11;Won 10;Drew0;Lost1 The StoicThe Sport try-scorer of immense talent), Ben Boscawen try-scorer ofimmensetalent),BenBoscawen Jack Edmonstone(atackler, ball-winnerand andGeorgeGill(tacklingfiends), Arthey hugely talentedbackthreesquadofWill Alec BirdwoodandLuke Lindsay, anda authoritative hooker locks OscarMarment, Ed Hopkinson(Edscoring45pointshimself), and comprisingpropsEzzyAbdy-Collins and fiercely competitivepackledbyLuke Lindsay fullback. Allthiswasmadepossiblebya byJaimieCroom-Johnsonat supported opposition ball and making bone crunching opposition ballandmakingbonecrunching Williams andNo. 8 Will Thompsonstealing back rowwithflankers Tom Johnson,Oscar The packcontainedamobileandaggressive fullback astheseasonprogressed. Jack FloodandGregAtkinson whomovedto byEllisJenkinson, centre andwaspartnered for thefuture.SamRileywasaregularin Tucker andOscarPegg allshowedpromise At Freddie scrum-half Phillips,Harrison improves hetoowillbeapotentweapon. clever skillsandwhenhisdecision-making ran theshowfromfly-half displayingsome Junior ColtsC2012

in nextseason’sDailyMailCup. It willbeinterestingtoseetheir progress undefeated seasonslipby. alsonottolettheir determination alotfromthisbuthadthe They learnt that putthemunderthemostpressure. testing timewastheStamfordgameandone Uppingham inconsecutiveweeks.Themost putting over50pointsonOundleand Their mostmemorablemomentswere they grow. the futureandwillcompeteforplacesas Allshowedpromisefor Inigo Lendrum. Allwell, ZakCoupland,Freddie Paling and for Triumph Opuala-Charlesandhisbrother During theseasontherewerecameoroles slot. the hooker’s atpropwithAlexSmithcommanding starts Moor andJamesHechlehadthemajorityof excellent technicalability, IsaacAjala,James more thanmadeupforthatwithsome The frontrowlacked alittleinphysiquebut Mr Reliabilityandutilityforward. ever presentAlexDiaconuprovingtobe played themajorityofgamesatlockwith andGeorgeConstantinidi Norris Harry an awesomeunit. others inattacktheyhavethepotentialtobe tosupport their timingandopportunity tackles indefence.Oncetheyrecognise from start toendwaspurejoy.from start worked with,andwhosetalentattitude to ateamthelike ofwhichtheyhavenever thanks to expressonceagaintheirenormous wish DawsonandBobRoberts Coaches Ray Haar, IonnesyanandJake Artem Lussier. Benter we alsohadthebenefitofgifted match andamassed65points.Occasionally Kai Komai atNo.8,whoscoredinallbarone andthemighty ballcarrier) (a terrifying Mr Ray DawsonandMrBobRoberts Mr Ray Mr AlanHughes

© R & H Chapman Photography Dockerty wasnothingifnotcommitted, great strength,toourattack;Harrison brought aggressivepace,andNai ChiTsai two key weapons;RomanDuBoisPelerin andmissile-like tacklingwere ball-carrying Dunn’spacy presence aboutthepark;Harry Allhusen wasadedicatedandpowerful dependable, contact-heavyplay;Freddie few: MatthewHilldefinedhiscaptaincywith Nonetheless, manyimpressed.To namea team squad,andonlyoccasionallyDs. many waystheboysweremoreofalargeC ofcontinuity,a toughseasoninterms andin thecasewithDteam,thiswas As isoften Yearlings B Points for252.Points against111.MostTries: draws, twolossesandlosttotheelements. good wins.Funny season,fourwins,two Then Stamford59-0andThePerse 39-5.Three winning waysvUppinghamathome38-0. winter conditions.EarlyMarch,backto time, oneloss,twodrawsandlosttopoor From lean to2Marchwasavery 18January against TheLeys,winning53-0. one-sidedmatch 12-46, thenplayedavery to whatwasreallyanAsideofAkeley Wood badly,Our seasonstarted welostthefirstgame Lendrum andFreddieLendrum Phillipspropelledthe scorer.captain aswelltoptry Inigo Palling ledthesidethroughoutseasonas of thebestBstringsidesinarea.Freddie School theboyscementedthemselvesasone bigger winsagainstMillHillandTheLeys against OundleandUppinghameven together duringtheseason.With bigwins side putsomenotableperformances coaches whattheywerecapableofbutthe would haveliked inwhichtoshowtheir side didn’thaveasmanygamesthey fixture list. With threegamescancelledthe winning fiveoutoftheeightgamesontheir The Yearlings Bteamhadasuccessfulseason, Yearlings D Yearlings C Played 5;Won 2;Lost3 Played 8;Won 4;Drew2;Lost2 Played 5;Won 5;Drew0;Lost0 season wassurely the24-0Away winatMill butthehighlightof was satisfying, well-fought winagainstUppingham (15-7) skill intheiroccasionalappearances. The Smedley andKyle Gibsonbothlentflairand and developedstrongly;AlfieMarsden- Most Improved:NaiChiTsai. Notabad Markham. MVP: AngusMcCrorie-Shandand Alvaro delaVega. Mostconversions:George a solidgameplanthroughouttheseasonthat wastheboys’abilitytostick performances impressiveabouttheside’s What wasvery Temnyanskiy andJonnyHawkingsByass. ledbyIsaacAjala,Alexander scrummagers quick ballprovidedbyapackofstrong gamewith gameafter back lineforward Yearlings D2012 Yearlings C2012 Yearlings B2012 teams inthearea. themselves againstsomeofthebestschool to playintheYearlings Asideandprove afewplayerschance earned This inturn attheirbest. allowed eachplayertoperform enabled themtoscorelotsoftriesand in autumn12.Well done. agrouptowatch season, butthisiscertainly of promisehereforthefuture. to beallowedplaysomelovely rugby. Lots Hill, wheretheteamhadjustenough edge The StoicThe Mr Tom Higham Mr BobRoberts Mr Sport Ray Dawson Ray 123

© R & H Chapman Photography © R & H Chapman Photography © R & H Chapman Photography Sport Sport

early on, we came back to tie 7-7 at half-time. A fierce second half saw Epsom score again, but Stowe responded with another Roberts RUGBY 7s try. Scores were level again with time running out. Stowe regained the re-start through superb skills by Clark and we were awarded a Boys’ Hockey What an extraordinary season! Our first three Rosslyn Park is the National Schools’ 7s penalty deep in their half. We took the tournaments were played in driving rain and Tournament. 125 schools start this unusual decision to go for goal with a drop gale force winds which made playing tournament. Stowe has a very strong kick and Olley succeeded, leading to a three expansive flowing Sevens impossible. In fact reputation and our aim is to qualify through point lead. Exactly the same pattern repeated the tournament at Windsor was abandoned to the ‘second day’ where the remaining 16 itself and again Olley slotted a drop kick for due to the conditions. An inaugural teams return for further matches. To reach us to win and go through to the semi-finals. tournament was organised in Northampton this stage we would have to win all of the This was without doubt the best result in my this year and this saw the Stowe lads start matches in our group, which included 1st XI 15 years of coaching Stowe 7s. Our prize was their campaign in earnest towards what was Monmouth College and Abingdon who we 1st XI 2012 to take on Wellington in the last four of the to become a fantastic season. We progressed knew also fully expected to reach that level. Played 13; Won 7; Drew 2; Lost 4 competition. Stowe was now well respected through to the final of this friendly local We started with stiff but pleasing wins over and fought valiantly in front of huge crowds. tournament and went on to beat Bloxham the other two schools in our group, Latymer Stowe 1st team squad has recorded some However, we did not manage to hang on and comfortably and so we very happy to lift the Upper and Dartford College and then lined fantastic victories this season in a team well went down 24-12. The team had represented trophy. Certain players were starting to shine up against Monmouth. Stowe went on to play themselves and Stowe with great honour, led by joint captains Rob Hill and Henry through, with a nice balance to the side some of the best 7s I have seen from a Stowe drawing many comments of praise from Rudd. During the first term the boys were becoming evident. Hard ball winning side. We totally controlled the match and the various schools. The team produced a run of able to put together a decent number of forwards including Clark, Raymond, Page, shell-shocked opponents had no answer to six superb wins in succession at Rossyln Park, training sessions both indoor and outdoor Phipps, Onojaife and Consett linked to our all-round power and organisation; we showing great pride, organisation and huge and recorded a good victory against a tenacious and well-organised half backs – won 29-0. We took this energy and character. Special mention must go to Solihull development team. Olley, Nichols, Sargeant and Plunket and our confidence on to dominate Abingdon and Cameron Roberts for scoring an amazing 34 finishing was certainly looking very potent our first job was done – we were through to tries this season, James Clark for securing so The benefit to this training was that it with Roberts, Clarke and Jones touching the knock out stages. From now on all much ball in the tight, Jake Olley whose created good competition for places for the down several times between them. matches are played on the main pitch with large crowds watching the remaining teams distribution and kicking skills are quite first game in January and made it difficult The sun finally came out as we approached fight it out. Our first opponents were superb and captain Ben Nichols for leading for the selectors. Our first block fixture the big tournaments of Surrey and Rosslyn Haileybury. Our usual stars of Nichols, Olley, with such passion and commitment. against Mill Hill was probably the most Park. These are where we test ourselves Clark and Roberts shone brightly and we frustrating of the season with many chances As usual Mr Hayden was by my side against the strongest schools in the country came through comfortably. Epsom College throughout and added tremendous energy going begging and Mill Hill scoring a solitary and hopes were high. At Surrey we came were next. They were the pre-tournament and enthusiasm to every practice and counter goal in the first half to win the through a very tough qualifying group to favourites who had two of the fastest players tournament. He gets on so well with the match 1-0. reach a respectable place in the quarter-finals on show. Many teams came to watch them © R & H Chapman Photography players but demands such high standards. out of the 56 starting schools, four of the final play, as they were capable of scoring amazing A much needed pre-season tournament at He is an outstanding Sevens coach. attitude which Rudd always had in a Stowe called upon Craven dominated in open play eight teams were ACER Colleges (Premiership tries. However, Stowe was not in the mood to Uppingham the following day saw the boys shirt was highlighted in the match against St coming off his line at speed and making Academy ‘schools’). roll over easily and although we went down Mr Craig Sutton have a tough match against Trent and a win Edward’s as he played with a damaged ankle many important blocks. Top goal scorer was against Bedford which allowed the team and wouldn’t stay off the pitch until we Nick Paine and player of the season was Will shape and structure to start to develop and scored the equaliser. Jones. take good strides forward for the first half of the term. In the next four matches Stowe The team were very dangerous on the During this season I have seen a real step played some of the best hockey I have seen counter attack with Robert’s pace, Duckett’s up in the standard of hockey we have from a 1st XI group playing quick attacking reverse stick and Simpkin and Dixon- played as each individual has developed hockey which was balanced with a well Smith’s movement and skill. This, combined tactically and technically throughout the structured defence. with Paine’s ability to score penalty corners year which is due to the work the players highlighted when he scored one top left have put in. This has been highlighted by Stowe beat Bloxham 7-2 where they against Stamford, meant we would always the step-up in players such as Smith and produced a fantastic second half display score goals. The midfield trio of Rudd, Todd Roberts who went from regular second scoring five goals with Paine, Duckett and and Jones also got on the score sheets on a team players to strong first team members. Rudd scoring two each. Against Stamford regular occurrence which showed their As always I hope that the boys who are the boys recorded another 7-2 victory with ability to get from D to D with pace and leaving will go on to play some sort of Paine and Roberts scoring 2 each and goals skill. This was shown by scoring 37 goals in hockey in the future and I thank them for a from Rudd, Dixon-Smith and Todd. The 13 matches whilst only conceding 24. really successful season which has produced team then defeated Bedford 5-1 and drew some great results. My thanks go to Mr with MCS in a hard fought 1-1 draw. In the Although the team was scoring a lot of goals Pickersgill and Mr Hearne both of whom second half of the season there were it was the central defensive partnership of have worked tirelessly through the term and victories against Shiplake 6-2 and another Woodward and Hill and Barran, Tottenham developed a great rapport with the boys. 1-1 draw against St Edward’s where Rudd and Smith at the half-backs which were vital set up a Dixon-Smith tap in with five to Stowe victories. This was shown as they Mr James Fair minutes left on the clock which Stowe soaked up pressure with ease which allowed thoroughly deserved. This ‘never say die’ the team to always be in the game. When

124 The Stoic The Stoic 125 126 3rd XI 2nd XI Ngerem enjoyed hisfirstseasonofhockey swingofthestick.Chima his powerful with corners couple ofheavyhandedshort the backandevenmanagedtoscore a Matteo diCarlofelicewassolidas arockat award. picked uptheseason’splayer’s together withcentraldefenderWilliam Plant, FitzHerbert wasoutstandingingoaland defiantly againstmostoppositions. Freddie had theabilitytoscoreregularlyanddefend Cockbill, as ateam.Theteam,ledbyHarry its unselfishplayandabilitytoworktogether a welloiledunitwhosegreateststrengthwas the sidewasabletodevelopandmatureinto 70% oftheirgames.Throughouttheterm fromUppingham,managingtowin drubbing superb season,despiteendingona0-5 This yearthe3rdXIhockey teamhavehada pile onthepressureandgiveStoweamuch past Evans.Stamfordthenscoredagainto the ballonrightandmanagingtoslipit and pressedushighupthepitch,winning believed itwasover. Stamfordcameouthard Half-time sawthescoreat3-0andmost the differencebetweentwosides. dominating themiddleofpark.Hewas his bestgameoftheseasonsofarby coolly underpressure.KitDixon-Smithhad to gettheballClarke inspacetofinish began tostringpassestogetherandmanaged immediately putonthebackfoot.Stowe finish, Stowebeganslowlyandwere won 5-2.Havingtowaitforthefirstgame of theseasonwasoverStamfordwhenwe away. Few wouldarguethatourbestresult Oxfordteam2-0 style beatingastrongMCS keen tobouncebackandtheydidthanis break earlyinthesecondhalf. Theboyswere could donothingabouttheirfastcounter were unabletofindthegoalandMike Evans and althoughwedominatedpossession The nextgamesawusplayingBloxhamaway cracking goalhighintotheroofofnet. Sebastian Clarke beganhisgoaltallywitha great winoverawelldrilledMillHill. no surprisethattheybegantheseasonwitha losses. Theboyshadtrainedhardsoitwas side recordedfivewins,onedrawandthree Captained bysuperstarSebastianClarke the The 2ndXIhashadafantasticseason. Played 9;Won 5;Drew1;Lost3 The StoicThe Sport Shiplake ledtoanotherfantasticwinover for topgoalscorer. Theconvincingwinover close intotheendofseasonvery the run Parker bothaddingtotheirgoaltallymaking mostly intheopponents’half, Clarke and minute ofthegame.Thegamewasplayed good saveitwouldhavebeen1-0inthefirst Stowe wereontheattackandifnotfora Assoonasthewhistlewent performance. beat Shiplake 9-0withanimpressive be theirmostconvincingresult.Theboys their nextgameagainstShiplake. Thiswasto they didnotwinandvowedtodobetterin that side, theboyswereextremelyfrustrated match sawadrawagainstanaverageBedford go fromstrengthtostrength.Ouropening The secondhalfoftheseasonsawteam toputteamsbedinthefuture. learnt and intheendaconvincingwinbutlesson second ofthegame.Thescorefinished5-2 Clarke gettinganotherandParker findinghis onetwoswhichledto with marvellous needed wake upcall.Theboysanswered Harry Cockbill’s abilitytoplaytheballinto Harry dominatingthecentreofpitch. Gilbert Mungo KilgourandGeorgeJones,withNico sideofthepitchthrough the rightandleft exquisite passingandattackingmovesdown Leese. Thesmoothmidfieldersdeveloped byEdwardHowesandHubert supported and progressedimmenselyasadefender, 2nd XI2012 3rd XI2012 next year. Well donetoallwhoparticipated. themselves pushing1stand2ndteamplaces I hopethemajorityoftheseplayerswillfind Overall, athoroughlyenjoyableseason,and ongoal. enjoyed manyopportunities Rothschild andJackBarham,whoboth space ledtonumerousattacksfromMerlin during training. Thomas whohasworked hardwiththeboys be dearlymissed.SpecialthankstoMiss chances andsavingthem.Alltheleaverswill he wouldbealloverthepitchcreating would worktirelesslyindefenceandattack, hockey, andlovesevenmoreplayingit.He this year, Freddie Benyonlovestotalkabout ball. Thereisjustonemorewholeavesus beatingtwoplayersbeforepassingthe often attacking player, rarelylosingtheballand Housson waswithoutdoubtourmost Benjamin opponents’ defence.Similary on theballandcreatinghavocfor year, alwayslookingdangerouswhenhewas CharlesCoxwasfantasticforusthis Martin. fantastic atthebacklinkingwellwithHarry was always metwithsmiles.JamesBarnett continuous wordsofencouragementwere Mike Evanswillbegreatlymissedingoal;his tough Uppinghamside. tale endingifnotlosingtheirlastgametoa St Edward’sanditwouldhavebeenafairy Mr MarkBlew

© R & H Chapman Photography © R & H Chapman Photography Bloxham where at 4-0 down the team was Bloxham whereat 4-0downtheteamwas Stand outgamewasthematchagainst were thetopgoalscorers. season andBestWangmontri andGeorgeSilk throughthe Man oftheMatchperformances Ellison providedgoodskillsinmidfield and the middle.Tom HunnableandGeorge Tom Young developedagoodcombinationin into astrongdefenderandcombinedwith Junior ColtsA.AlsoAngusTyrell developed who hadafantasticfirstseasoningoalforthe emergence intalentEdHopkinsongoal poor ones.Duringtheseasontherewasan some fantasticresultsmixedinwith The JuniorColtshadamixedseasonwith burden ofmovingfromhisfavouredinsideleft whohonourablyshoulderedthe sportsman ofHugoKinahan,anable came intheform any wemetonthecircuit.Strongsupport as flank –andJamesHill,aspotentafinisher and tirelessscourgeofdefencesontheright Jackman –anever-present, highlyenergetic ofPlayertheSeason,George in theform progressed, hismostprominentdeputiescame central midfieldincreasinglyastheterm Dixon-Smithwhorantheshowfrom Harry Ledablybytheelegant throughout theterm. consistentlyandwell team whoallperformed There isastrongpoolofleadingplayersinthis improvement individuallyandcollectively. some highclassgoalsscored;significant won; somenotableopponentsvanquished; assessment isplentiful:themajorityofmatches qualified asastrongone.Evidenceforthis By anygauge,theColtsAseasonof2012 and Noestwereplayersoftheseason. werejointtopscorersandDann and Grossart Pilleau, Clover and putinagoodperformance. with Uppinghamwheretheboysfoughthard wastheir3-3draw Another goodperformance inthatgame. were standoutperformers no reply. JohnnyDannandArchieGrossart St Edward’swheretheteamscored8goalswith cameagainst fixtures. Theirbestperformance highs andlowsdespitenothavingmany The ColtsBhadamixedseasonwithsome Junior ColtsA Colts B Colts A Played 8;Won 3;Drew2;Lost3 Miss GabriellePeel was a hard-fought draw against a skilful was ahard-foughtdrawagainstskilful Bloxham weresweetandalmostassatisfying Victories againstStEdward’s,Uppinghamand award wastremendousingoalthroughout. recipientoftheMostImprovedPlayer Barnes, Jack Vestey halfandWill ourMrReliableatleft Soper-Gwatidzo wasanenergeticcentreback, Edzai position inthelatterhalfofterm. to calmlyandeffectivelymanthesweeper narrowest of angles. Throughout the season ofangles.Throughout theseason narrowest slammed hometheequaliserfrom the Aitchisonwho minute equaliserfromMurray goals fromWangmontri (2),Ellisonandalast fantastic comebackinthesecond halfwith dead andburied;howevertherewas a next coupleofyears. represent theSchoolatSeniorlevelin towatchingthisgroupofplayers look forward Sir William BorlaseteamsandaseverIshall contained withintheRGSHighWycombe and experience againstthestellartalents lotsfromtheirCountyCup will havelearnt Theboys Stamford inthefirsthalfofterm. team in the future. team inthefuture. boys whocouldmake thestepuptofirst of hockey playersandthereareanumberof the teamhasdevelopedintoastronger group Junior ColtsA2012 Colts B2012 Colts A2012 The StoicThe Mr Henry Swayne Mr Henry Mr Phil Arnold Mr PhilArnold Sport 127

© R & H Chapman Photography © R & H Chapman Photography © R & H Chapman Photography Sport Sport

Junior Colts B Junior Colts B 2012 The Junior Colts B had a fine season winning six matches, drawing one and only losing two. They were well led by James Scott who also Girls’ Hockey appeared at times for the A team. Toby Pemberton and Ben ter Haar were the stars in defence and Ed Hopkinson did a good job in 1st XI 2012 goal. Nico Upton, Felix Spooner and George Lee ran the midfield very well and in the few games he played James Paul was a threat up

© R & H Chapman Photography 1st XI front. Will Cowley scored four goals in the Played 18; Won 8; Drew 2; Lost 8 two games he played and Kieran Carney did Junior Colts C 2012 a good job on the wing. The highlights were terrific wins over Uppingham and MCS Stowe had their most successful season for the Oxford where the guys were at their best. past 3 years as every result improved from the Mr William Hearne season before and this was with a squad containing only three Upper Sixth. The team had

their longest pre-season with a trip to © R & H Chapman Photography Junior Colts C Cheltenham Ladies College where the girls stayed for three days and took park in a scorer was won by captain and player of the year, Murray and Harriet Deakin in their two years The team was enthusiastic for victory and tournament finishing mid table. This preparation Charlie Lechmere, although she faced tough at Stowe have all provided humour, skill and succeeded in ending the term undefeated meant the girls started the season on the front opposition from Lucy Horan, Claudia Bett, Alice tenacity as they worked hard to help the team improve and I would like to thank them for their after their four games. They started in fine foot and recorded emphatic wins against Hughes, Steph Robinson and Ella Markham.

© R & H Chapman Photography efforts. I would also like to thank all the players Pangbourne, Tudor Hall and Beaconsfield High The squad will lose only three players and so the form against Bloxham, winning 7-0, and for their commitment and Mr Arnold for his with Lucy Horan scoring eight goals in two future of the team is promising especially with again at St Edward’s, 4-2. Against Bedford coaching and support. Yearlings A 2012 games. The team then had a few setbacks with the talent coming through from the U15 team. they won 1-0 in the last moments of the losses against Bloxham and Bradfield, however The Upper Sixth of Chloe Stewart, Sophie Mr James Fair game with a superb powered shot from important lessons were learnt from these George Barham and he scored both goals matches and this was to help throughout the in their 2-1 victory against Uppingham. year. score goals in a regular basis. That said, Jack Edmonstone, Guy Gibson and George A team of 12 went again to Cheltenham for a defensively we were incredibly strong, and Gill contributed excellent midfield and tournament over half-term and played five despite the long-term injury to Rosie Marsden- defensive play. matches in 2 days playing against some talented 2nd XI Smedley sustained during the House Hockey, Irish and Welsh schools. The squad contained we did not concede a huge number of goals. Mr Ben Ponniah and Mr Michael Bevington The 2nd XI were pitched against some strong three of the U15 squad who did well stepping up It is always pleasing to see development from opposition throughout the season, schools that to the higher level. In the County Cup the team the 2nd Squad, and the promotion of Lucie would put out at least three or four Senior came 3rd losing narrowly by one goal against Wellington to the 1st XI and numerous other teams on a weekly basis. With that in mind, the teams who went on to qualify to the Nationals. players making appearances throughout the

© R & H Chapman Photography squad aimed to focus on development of During the second half of term the team played season is an encouraging sign for all. As the players and skills, as well as an understanding of Yearlings A in some tough matches, resulting in a well fought season progressed, Stowe became a much Yearlings B 2012 basic game strategy and structure. The squad draw against Wellingborough, a 5-0 victory over stronger and fitter team and both Miss Knott The Yearlings A have won some excellent was strengthened with the arrival of some Northampton High, a loss to St Edward’s and an and I were proud to work with an enthusiastic matches against very tough opposition and 8-0 win against Mill Hill. The best two enthusiastic new additions to the School, and group of girls. Special mention must go to Jess the team has been well led by captain Oliver performances of the season were left to the last also the new Fifth Form who were keen to Noakes and Ellie Melville – two stalwarts of the Woodward. Our home form this term has two matches against Cheltenham and Oundle, cement regular places in the team. Without our 2nd XI, enduring 3 years under my tutelage! been superb with perhaps our best two very strong hockey schools. The girls goal keeper we were always going to struggle, achievement being our 2-1 win against narrowly lost 3-2 to Cheltenham but had a few relying on Posy Clay who was new to the game Player of the season: Heloise Kleinwort. Uppingham. The team has gradually gelled chances in the last 10 minutes to equalise which and the School – but who made such a sterling Most Improved Player: Lucie Wellington. together this term and have demonstrated a would have been a fair result. A 2-1 victory effort that she was awarded Players’ Player of Players’ Player: Posy Clay. huge amount of potential. There have been the season. The girls were resilient in the face of against Oundle with goals from Hughes and Mr Myles Nash and Miss Hannah Knott many strong individual performances over Lechmere at home allowed the girls to finish on adversity and unfortunately lacked the ability to the course of the year with Alex Smith, a real high. George Markham and Sam Riley all playing 2nd XI 2012 One of the best qualities the girls have shown important roles. The most improved player © R & H Chapman Photography this term is the desire to work hard for each has to be Tom Constable-Maxwell who has other and fight for every ball. This has been developed into one of the most consistent Guy Seddon was the rock of the defence shown by all of the players but Clara Holden, defensive players in the team. The team and Caio Castellini Baldissera was Yearlings B outstanding in goal. Superb team spirit and Laura Welford and Rebecca Dale really showed played well in the County Cup but work ethic was the recipe to their success determination in every game sharing 6 Player of unfortunately went out of the competition in The Yearlings B team had a tremendous and everyone in the squad played their part. the Match awards. Georgia Stone has improved the semi-finals. I hope that the team keep season winning eight matches, drawing two as a goalie and made vital saves throughout the Players’ player of the season: Caio Castellini trying to improve as the boys progress and only losing two. Jack Hechle and Alex season winning players’ player of the season. Baldissera. Coaches’ player of the season: through the school. Well done to all players. Diaconu were an unstoppable force up Most improved player was awarded to Harriet front and Ed Tilleard was the work horse in Jack Hechle. Mr Richard Pickersgill Deakin who fought hard to regain her spot and

midfield. Hallam Smith captained superbly, shone through at the end of the season. Top goal © R & H Chapman Photography Mr James Knott

128 The Stoic The Stoic 129 probably the most satisfying day’s hockey day’s probably themost satisfying The regionalfinalsdayon17November was – throughtheearlyroundsof CountyCup. as thegirlsprogressed–again,shakily atfirst thestandardofcompetitionrose half ofterm, As thetemperaturesdroppedin second half ofterm. another usefulside)andanunbeatenfirst and Bloxham(anexcellent1-0winagainst (drew 2-2playinglike forlike forthefirsttime) week sawbacktogamesagainstOakham strongest teamsonthecircuit.Thefollowing minutes ofthegametodefeatone aone goaldeficitinthelastten overturn girls showedtremendouscharacterto them. OnablisteringlyhotOctoberday, the tobringthebestoutof season reallystarted ofBradfieldinthethirdmatch form toupthefitnesslevels…)in team runs higher levelofopposition(aswellassome Tudor thecase,however, Hall.Asisoften a of scrappyvictoriesagainstPangbourne and happen intheirfirstcoupleofgames,a from thesegirls.Thisdidn’tparticularly levelofexpectationtobe met was acertain from theirsuccessatU14levellastyear, there Having come as a highly ratedgroupof players and ofcoursetheunbeatenseason! camaraderieandteamspirit; theterrific term, collective improvementseenthroughoutthe thedegreeofindividualand performances, –encompassingtheon-field term Happy days:undoubtedlythethemeof U15A 3rd XI earlier atgoal.Perhaps ourbesthockey was following upourtacklesandstrikingmuch to befarmoreproactiveinourattacks, matches. From thismatchonwardswebegan effectively tocreatespacethaninprevious usingthewingmuchmore drive forwards, impetus whichinspiredthewholeteamto inattackcreatedan and IsobelBerner force indefence,whilstBellaWallersteiner and MollyDavisonprovedtobeanimmovable together asacohesivewhole.RozzySutcliffe first timethattheteamreallybegantowork memorable,asthiswasthe was particularly againstWellingboroughthroughout. Ourvictory and desiretoimprovehasbeenimpressive their trainingsessions;determination have beenextremelycommittedtowards productive seasonforthe3rdXI.Thegirls This hasbeenanextremelypositiveand 130 Played 10;Won 9;Drew1;Lost0 The StoicThe Sport

stick before!Iwouldlike tosincerelythank of girlswhohaveneverpicked upahockey far wehavecome,especiallygiventhenumber goal andutilisespace,demonstratedjusthow forstrikes as ateam,createopportunities at a well-drilledside,ourabilitytocommunicate Although ultimatelyweweredefeatedbysuch played inthematchagainstStEdward’s. they turned up with their B team! Not wanting upwiththeirBteam!Notwanting they turned however,disappointment andirritation, when strong. Suchwasthecollective an Oundleteamwhomwepresumedtobe ashowdownagainst the finalgameofterm, into thehighlightspackage–untilwereached Wellingborough andStEdward’smaking it against the victories–classyperformances meantime, thegirlscontinuedtonotchup With theschoolcircuitcontinuingin huge amount. a nonetheless fromwhichthegirlslearnt Sir William BorlaseGS,butagreateffort ofPortsmouth opposition intheform GSand to beaswecameupagainsthighquality ifwegotthrough…Sadlyit wasn’t the country prospect ofaplaceinthelasteightschools as apredominantlyU15side)withthe National Semi-finalsforthefirsttime(playing Tilly Upton.StowewasnowintotheU16 hat-trick fromeventualplayeroftheseason, College, inthefinalmatchwithasecondhalf dispatching Berkshirewinners,Wellington play, agrouptowinandthegirlsmadeit, coaching Icanremember. Threematchesto

they have achieved. they haveachieved. aplomb andIamextremelyproudofallthat represented theSchoolwithconsiderable each matchandtrainingsession;theyhave dedication andfunthattheybringtowards the girlsforsenseofenthusiasm, England division. England division. – finishedinthetopfourSouthof two oftheteamplayingayearyoungasU15s) National Schoolscompetition(withallbut Reached thepenultimateroundofU16 record foraStoweU15Ateam: Statistically themostsuccessfulseasonon energy toproceedingsonandoffthepitch! player Tilda Bevan,whocontributedmuch player oftheseasonTilly Upton;andplayers’ increasingly impressivesweeper, Tessa Horan; midfield; mostimprovedplayerand leadershipandworkrate in wholehearted dispatches to:captainEllieClarkfor season.Mentionsin terrific otherwise So asomewhatanticlimacticendtoan were expecting… this wasn’tthehighlyvauntedelitegroupwe that wewerehavingthemontoastand Senior levelnextyear),itwasclearbyhalf-time playtogetherasateambefore last timethey’d (the reminderthatthiswouldprobablybethe to letthegirlsknowthisbeforegame Miss Vicky Kinmond 3rd XI2012 U15 A2012 Mr Henry Swayne Mr Henry

© R & H Chapman Photography © R & H Chapman Photography matches with a very large squadofgirls matches withavery past herdefences.We playedmostofour our superbgoalkeeper, onlyleteightgoals calibre ofourgoalscorers.Francesca Knight, score 43goals,afantastictotalshowing the losing justtwo.Altogethertheymanaged to matches, winningnine,drawing one and tremendous season.Theyplayed12 The U14BGirls’Hockey teamhada draw 2-2 and also, earlier in the term, we drew we drew draw 2-2andalso,earlierintheterm, where wecamebackfrom0-2athalf-time to memorable matcheswereagainstStEdward’s four drawsandtwodefeats.Themost Akeley Wood, StJamesandOundle), Malvern season withfourvictories(Pangbourne, the pitch.Theyenjoyedabalanced,winning dynamic teamwhowereexcitingtowatchon progressed, theydevelopedintoacommitted, potential fromtheoutsetand,asterm The U14Ahockey teamshowedconsiderable Chauveau, JeanieGibbs. Isobel Oliver, IsabellaMuirhead,Jemima Bromley-Davenport, Kelly-Jo Cecile-Pritchard, Jemima Fitzjohn, Polly Millie Stuart-Mills, Philippa Stacey, AnnaFox, DaisyPrice(GK), Caprice Critchley(cpt),JemimaGrant, open uptheiroptions.Thehighlightsforthe and notbeingafraidtopassbackwards theballwithease their matches,transferring girls showedbrilliantpassagesofplayin of hockey. the Inthesecondhalfofterm andthishasreallyraisedtheirlevel the term improving theirpassinggamethroughout excitable attimes!).We havefocusedon has beengreat(eveniftheyarevery Their teamworkanddedicationtohockey The U15Bshavehadanexcellentseason. U14B U14A U15B Played 12;Won 9;Drew1;Lost2 Played 10;Won 4;DrewLost2 Played 12;Won 9;Drew0;Lost3 played in good spirit and made my first term played ingoodspirit andmademyfirstterm bodes wellforfuturedevelopment. They of talentinthisgroupThirdForm girls Thedepth ensuring maximumparticipation. outstanding contribution to the success of the outstanding contributiontothesuccessof of theseasonwasJemimaGrantwhomadean post!The player trademark goalfromtheleft was Kelly-Jo Cecile-Pritchardwithher county intheRegionals.Thetopgoalscorer achievement, andwentontorepresentthe conceding agoal–commendable 2012’, winningalltheirgameswithout ‘Buckinghamshire U14CountyChampions successful seasontheteamwascrowned 1-1 withBloxham.Inadditiontothis always key tothisteam’ssuccessandIhope ofeachotherwas teamwork andsupport Tash Edwardsscoringthewinner. Their and a1-0winagainstWellingborough with scoringahattrick Bloxham withJessCarne team includedafantastic4-0winagainst U15 B2012 the future–welldonetoyouall! contribute tothesuccessofStowehockey in to coachthisgroupofgirlsandtheywill throughout. Ithasbeenanabsolutepleasure midfield, demonstratingahighworkrate Caprice Critchley, wasexcellentatcentre extremely reliableindefenceandthecaptain, was MillieBromley-Davenport whobecame highest goalscorer. Themostimprovedplayer team atrightmidfieldandwasalsosecond Shannon Devlin. Most Improved:Fenella and Barrons Player oftheseason:Tash Edwards. that theytake thisonintotheseniorlevel. success astheyprogressthrough theSchool. tohearingabouttheirfuture look forward much here atStowemostenjoyable.Ivery Miss GabriellePeel U14 B2012 U14 A2012 The StoicThe Ms Valerie Green Mrs SarahSutton Sport 131

© R & H Chapman Photography © R & H Chapman Photography © R & H Chapman Photography Sport Sport

faced. Because of the success of the first day throughout this season. They understand the 2nd team made it into the Championship the game of lacrosse more, are more bracket. The girls were faced with very knowledgeable, and able to recognise and 2nd XII skillful and challenging teams but they were capitalise on situations during matches. As a ready to claim the championship! The girls coach I could not be more proud of what the Lacrosse gave 100 percent of their effort every time 2nd team has produced this year: each Played 9; Won 6; Drew 2; Lost 1 they went into a match, however Stowe did member of the team should be extremely proud of herself for achieving the status that not make it into the final championship This season will be one to remember for a they have this season! This year has and will match. Stowe’s 2nd team was eventually while! Although at the beginning of the year, be one which should not be forgotten for placed 9th overall in the entire country!!! there was a bit of concern about how Stowe Lacrosse! dedicated some of the girls were, they Something that has never happened in 1st XII eventually pulled together as a team and Stowe history! The girls did a fantastic job Mrs Jayne Duckett finished the season with some amazing results! Captains Daisy Ussher and Annabel 2nd XII 2012 The 1st team, captained by Claudia Button Farr and bring them into a squad that made Duthie led the 2nds into the record books! and Looch Trevor have had another very few mistakes at the back. Double Other highlights: Daisy Ussher was Stowe’s leading scorer, impressive season winning 20 of their 23 teaming was an integral part of our game Lottie Phillips followed and also led the team full length matches. and because of the pressure we created in in assists, with Annabel Duthie in second midfield our attacking unit of Charlie Cook, • County U19 Representation: place. Lily Comyn led the team in defensive Although individual praise goes to Claudia caused turnovers with Hannah Maxwell a Megan Duckett and Charlotte Berrill found Claudia Button (captain), Emma with 160 goals in the season, there is no close second. Tamara Rowan-Hamilton led it easy to create options in front of goal. A doubt that this was a team affair. We Saric, Caroline Thompson, the team in ground balls with Emma Quayle became tactically astute as the season final word goes to our GK – Priscilla Powell Emily Beatty, Charlotte Cook, close by on the stats sheet. Clearly these progressed and by the time we went to whose confidence grew game by game. Octavia Trevor individuals have been stand outs with Nationals (early March) we were able to Her performance at Nationals and her statistics; however every member of the 2nd team contributed to the success of this year. score off seven individual plays going under crucial 25 saves tells a story as we played The 2nds finished the Lent term with a a variety of names! Our midfield contingent 14 games and had only 16 goals scored • Midlands U19 record of 6-2-1. The greatest success that has of Charlie Lechmere, Emily Beatty, Emma against us in the entire two days! Representation: Claudia been captured by the 2nds was the amazing Button (captain), Emma Saric, Saric, Lucy Horan, Imo Voorspuy, Becky event that happened during Nationals this Losing in the final of Midland Schools (2-3) Raeburn and Claudia Button never stopped Caroline Thompson year. From the 2nds’ success last year, Stowe running! We didn’t pride ourselves in was tough – so the joy of becoming was placed into a very difficult bracket. That winning 50:50 balls but were confident to Nationals Division 1 Champions meant that being said, the girls were up for the • Senior England B: Claudia claim 40:60 balls instead. I can’t speak we finished the season with a trophy that challenge and took on every team that they © R & H Chapman Photography highly enough of the calibre of this team – reflected a lot of hard work and Button they have been a delight to work with and commitment. Everyone watching the final their results speak volumes of their desire against St Swithun’s will know that they • National Centex: Claudia Malvern St James, and Berkhamsted; all a let down, only narrowly missing the next to ‘be the best’. Defensively we improved saw lacrosse played at a high level by a incredibly tough competitors. Overall play round of play by a one point differential, it as the season progressed – with Caroline Button team that quite simply wanted it more than has dramatically improved across the board. was a learning experience for the girls and a Thompson and Pippa Farr at the helm we the opposition. U15A Stick skills have become much more great opportunity to compete at a high were able to give experience to our Fifth • Regional Centex – Megan The U15As had a successful season posting consistent and the girls have established standard. Aleksia Zivanovic, an up and formers – Shona Drummond and Katkin Mrs Jayne Duckett coming U14 player was a great addition to Duckett, Shona Drummond, a 5-1 record in friendly game play. Stowe a clearer field sense as well. While the our national team and will be one to look managed to beat Bedford, St Albans, National Tournament proved to be a bit of Lucy Horan (invited to National out for in the next few years. The success of 1st XII 2012 2012) U15 A 2012 this year’s season came down to individual accountability and team cohesiveness. A strong attack relies on balanced and • Scoring 64 goals in 14 games at unselfish play. As an attacking unit with Nationals multiple scorers in any given game, Stowe’s attack certainly grew into a unit worthy of praise. Tessa Horan controlled the midfield • Beating Oxford University 8-7 with help from Tilda Bevan and Tilly Upton in the attacking end as well as Ellie Clark on the defensive wing. A strong defense • Beating Cheltenham Ladies headed by Lulu Shelembe kept the team College 12-4 in the last game in many a game, and it is because of their of the season efforts that the Malvern St James and Berkhamsted games both ended in wins. The girls can be very proud of themselves • Beating Malvern in a thriller at this season and should be more than prepared for Senior level play. home 5-4

© R & H Chapman Photography © R & H Chapman Photography Ms Chelsea Wagner

132 The Stoic The Stoic 133 Jemima Fitzjohn: 1. Jeanie Gibbs:1,JemimaGrant: Millie Bromley-Davenport: 4,LouisaFeast: 1, Cameron Nix:4,PhillyStacey: Scholes: 11,IzzyMuirhead:6,Anna Fox: 5, Goals: AleksiaZivanovic:17,MillaHarvey- the ratewhichtheydidthisterm. successful especiallyiftheykeep improvingat year asaU15team,theywillbevery only toBerkhamsted.Itisevidentthatnext Cheltenham andTudor Hall,whiletheylost StJames,Uppingham, St Albans,Malvern games, andonlylostone.TheybeatBedford, season fortheU14team.Theteamwonsix successful combined togetherledtoavery see frommucholdergirls.Allofthis and creatingplaysthatyouwouldexpectto the season,girlswereconnectingpasses contribute tothescoringplays.Byendof players, butinsteadmanyofthegirls rely ononlyoneortwostronglacrosse the balltogetitback.Theattackdoesnot the ball,theycansuccessfullydoubleteam ball iftheypossessit,ordonot midfield, thegirlscanquicklytransition theballover.opposing teamstoturn Inthe aggressively, andtakes riskstocause is nowaunitthatcommunicateswell,plays strategic andcomposedmanner. Thedefence howtoplaylacrosse in a team haslearned the attack. Sincethebeginningofterm, team inthemidfield,ondefence,and strong The U14teamhasevolvedintoavery Midfield: EdwinaLonge,highestgoalscorer back iftherewasaturnover! togettheball ball andherdetermination timeshegotthe toscoreevery determination Attack: Lyra deTanaia-Gela, forhersheer for theiroutstandingplaythisterm: Special mentionstothefollowingplayers Pipers U15Ateam. Corner over win atBerkhamstedandtheirvictory Particular mentionsmustbetheiroutstanding goodmatchoutcomesasaresult. some very the fieldwasoutstandingandtheyachieved players. Theirteamspiritandworkethicon andskilfulgroupoflacrosse determined The 2011-2012U15Blacrosseteamwasafast, U14A U15B 134 Played 7;Won 6;Drew0;Lost1 The StoicThe Sport Miss SarahBrowne

U14B The U14Bs had a final record of 3 wins and 3 The U14Bshadafinalrecordof3winsand girls grewinconfidenceandresultsshowed. the gameandtheirskillsbecameinstinctive thetacticsof bigger picture.Oncetheylearnt of lacrossethegirlsbegantoappreciate however oncetheyunderstoodthebasicskills majority ofgirlswerecompletebeginners, amazing year!At the thebeginningofterm The U14Bshadafantasticseasonandan as herabilitytoscoresomegreatgoals! key roleindoubleteamingdefenceaswell Defence: Fenella forhercontrol and Barrons, played Edwina. oflacrosse,well centre draw–afantasticterm on theteamandcontrollingpossessionat U14 B2012 U14 A2012 U15 B2012 Played 6;Won 3;Drew0;Lost3 records astheyprogressthroughtheyears! with lacrosseatStoweandcontinuetobreak far shown thisseason,allthegirlswillgovery with theattitudeanddedicationthattheyhave Fenwicke-Clennell.Sorrel IftheU14Bscontinue Cecile-Pritchard, DanniFusco-House, and Frankie Knight,JemimaChauveau,Kelly-Jo wereputinby outstanding performances example bothonandoffthefield.Other in pullingtheteamtogetherandledby captains thisyear;theydidanunbelievablejob year. Tilly SmithandSaskiaSatchellwere the the BsbutwillpushforAteamplacesbynext on andtherearemanythatcurrently term girls looked impressiveinpracticebytheendof Thisspecificgroup of losses fortheLentterm. Tanaia-Gela. Lyra Most improvedplayerfortheterm: de wellplayedElla! when itcounted–agoodterm and controlunderpressuremakingbigsaves Goals: EllaWomersley, forherdetermination Miss BrittanyButler Mrs HelenFryer

© R & H Chapman Photography © R & H Chapman Photography © R & H Chapman Photography 1st XI 1st XIAverages 2012 therefore justmissedoutoncompleting final ofthe Twenty/20 competition)and many ofthemid-weekfixtures(aswellas commitments, BenDuckett (captain)missed 2ndXIandEnglandU19 Due toNorthants produce amatchwinningperformance. always someoneputtingtheirhandupto If thesidewaseverintroublethenthere contributed. whereeverybody performance As thestatisticsshowitwasanall-roundteam second seasoninarow. number onespotintheleaguetablesfor this winthe1stXIsucceededinretainingtheir and agreatwaytofinishofftheseason. With . Itwasacomprehensiveperformance when theybeatWarwick inthefinalbyeight also wontheirownTwenty/20 competition touring sideinthelasteightyears.The1stXI a the Schoolhasonlylostonefixtureto touring sidesfromAustralia, whichmeansthat There werealsoconvincingwinsoverfour and Bedford(by142runs). Wickets), BrightonCollege(by240 runs) Wellingborough MCC(by7 (by220runs), OldStoics(by9wickets), (by 100runs), wickets), Oundle(by5wickets), Bloxham 7 runs), Oakham(by Bradfield College(by27 competition. Therewereheavywinsover to BedfordintheNationalTwenty/20 fixtures, won14,drewonewiththeonlyloss School’s history. Intotaltheyplayed16 the 1stXIhadoneofbestseasonsin Despite manyfixtureslosttotheelements Cricket Name Bowling CG Roberts HWH Woodward BT Paine HJR Martin RDR White JR Chaplin Name Batting BM Duckett JA Olley GL Jackman RDR White BT Paine HWH Woodward HRC Rudd Played 16;Won 14;Drew1;Lost1 M 16 13 14 15 16 15 M 12 15 15 16 14 13 14 Overs 104.4 63.5 95.2 63.5 90 63 Inns 11 13 12 13 12 8 6 Mdns 15 11 18 10 12 13 N/O 2 1 1 4 7 2 3

Runs 383 231 304 247 266 240 Runs 942 524 355 333 298 131 107 Roberts (Grenville, Upper Sixth), Harry Martin Martin (Grenville,UpperSixth),Harry Roberts Paine (Walpole, UpperSixth),Cameron Dixon-Smith (Chatham,Fifth Form), Benjamin James Hill(Chatham,Fifth Form), Harry Sixth), GeorgeJackman(Cobham,Fifth Form), Lower Lower Sixth),RussellWhite(Bruce, WoodwardLower Sixth),Henry (Grafton, (Chandos, UpperSixth),Jake Olley(Chandos, Rudd(V/C) LowerSixth),Henry (Grafton, The menwhodidit:BenDuckett (C) 2013fullofconfidence. the sideshouldstart only losethreeofthisteamnextseasonso quite ayoungsidethisyear, andthe1stXI the coaches’playerofseasonaward.Itwas Benjamin Paine andGeorgeJackmanshared voted players’playeroftheseasonand colours duringtheseason.BenDuckett was Ruddwereallawardedtheircricket and Henry BenjaminPaine,Cameron Roberts, Jake Olley Ben scored213notoutandJake 101. againstWellingborough.opening partnership School recordwhentheyamasseda337run and openingbatsmanJake Olleysetanew atanincredibleaverageof104.67.Ben runs on thetrot.In11inningshestillamassed942 season fortheSchoolfourth 1,000 runs 1st XI2012 Wkts 23 21 17 16 14 10 Avg 104.67 43.67 32.27 37 59.6 21.83 35.67 Avg 16.65 11 17.88 15.44 19 24 Top 213* 101 59* 54* 67 50 50* Econ. 3.66 3.62 3.19 3.87 2.96 3.81 50s 3 3 3 1 1 1 1 S/r 27.61 18.48 34 23.94 38.71 37.8 100s 4 1 0 0 0 0 0 5wh 0 0 0 1 1 0 S/r 128.16 97.22 68.8 62.83 81.42 50.78 72.3

who kept anaccuratescoreofourmatches. at theotherend.ThankyoualsotoLynn Allen Pocock andCliveCrosswhosharedtheduties byCliff the seasonandhewasablysupported gameof umpiredinevery Mike Harris ‘Pasty’ played, whereelsewheretheywerecalledoff. meant matchesstillhadachanceofbeing square andthenewmotorised‘supersopper’ new coverswhichnowshelterthewhole superb wickets despitetheheavyrainfall.The who, alongwithhisteam,producedsome andHeadGroundsman,SteveCurley,Arnold, A bigthankyoutomyAssistantCoach,MrPhil LowerSixth). Newman(Grafton, Sixth), Arthur Fourth Consett(Cobham,Lower Form), Harry LowerSixth),Tom(Grafton, Young (Grafton, (Cobham, Fourth Form), JackChaplin (Chandos, LowerSixth),JackKeeping cricketer attheSchoolthisyear. Cricket Clubsowewillhaveaprofessional three yeardealwithNorthantsCounty against Nepal.Heisjustabouttosigna Cup inAustralia. Histopscorewas55 represented EnglandU19sattheWorld In additiontothe1stXIreportBen 4s 138 72 33 39 38 12 6 6s 9 4 0 2 1 0 1 %Team 39.56 21.45 15.84 13.9 13.42 7.85 10.79 Ct 9 9 3 2 3 2 7 The StoicThe Mr JamesKnott St 4 3 0 0 0 0 0 Sport R/O 0 0 2 2 0 0 2

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© R & H Chapman Photography 136 Bedford. SethiandElliottstroked theballall oftheseasoncameagainst The performance fight-back. out bytheumpirewhichendedanamazing fumble bythefielderbuthewasadjudged a endafter he washomeatthebowler’s went forarisky twowithDrinkwaterthinking needed 10towinoffthelastover. Wightman Wightman in,Stowe thelasttwomenleft penultimate over. With Drinkwaterand straight oneandwasbowledinthe at around10anoveruntilSuttonmisseda ideas. BothtookthegametoRugbyscoring but Wightman andJoeSuttonhadother 29overs lost withthescoreat127for8after 35overs.Allseemed ended on184for6after with 3for15offhisallotted7overs.Rugby 19overswithConsettdoingthedamage after good tosstowinwiththeopposition81for4 Itwaslookinglike a cold Mayafternoon. The nextmatchwasatRugbyonafreezing who took4for10off3overs. man ofthematchwashat-trickConsett Thepickofthebowlersand great teameffort. anda clinicalperformance This wasavery withaninewicket overBloxham. start victory The 2ndXIgottheirseasonofftoabrilliant 2nd XI with Bloxhamonly managingamere86runs. dominance andquicklybowledall 20overs catches inthefield.Stowecontinued their day, bowlingamaidenoverandtakingthree himself. Edward Howeswasthemanof further andJames Draxpickinguptwo continued inthewaywithGregson gettinga middle stumpoutoftheground.Thegame opened thebowlingandquicklytook came outtobatstraightaway. TheoGregson Stowe finishedthe20overswith115.Bloxham hebowledjustshyofhis50. a 6.Unfortunately ball hedispatchedfor4andfollowedsuitwith Captain BenWackett tooktothefield;hisfirst the openingbowlersbeforebothbeingcaught. Jonathan Constantopenedallseasonseeingoff decided tobatfirst. Freddie and FitzHerbert long spellofrain.Theywonthetossand The boyswerekeen sucha togetoutafter strong Bloxhamside. paid offintheirfirstmatchagainstavery being calledoff, theystayedfocusedandthis second matchagainstBradfieldCollegealso Uppingham wascancelled,followedbytheir training andalthoughthefirstmatchagainst boys whodidnotlettheweatheraffecttheir some fieldingpractice.Howevercredittothe togetoutintothenetsand do struggle XI. With thewetweatheritwasalwaysa The cricket slowlyforthe3rd seasonstarted 3rd XI The StoicThe Sport

out for 82. out for82. in comingbatsmenwiththeteamendingall the Stoweopenersheapedpressureon slowresponsefrom Avery indifferent start. an to finishon146for8off30oversafter In thefinalgameofseasonOakhamrallied forschoolboycricket. win andagreatadvert ofvictory. short runs Thiswasasuper, super Bedford required18offthelastoverbutfell4 Stowe totalamassive179for4in25overs. finishing on24andDixon-Smith10the the momentumandscoredfreelywithConsett Dixon-Smithintobat.Bothkept up and Harry went hehadamassed40andbroughtConsett ofhis50.WhenthefallSethi’swicket short around theparkwithElliott(47)justfalling Sixth boys were unable to play; this included Sixth boyswereunable toplay;thisincluded that astheexamsfastapproached theUpper Oundle andBedfordweresimilar stories in as ourstandoutplayerofwicket keeper. Jones wasdominantaseverbehind thestumps withWackettvictory well. bowlingparticularly selected andthegameendedupbeing aneasy Jones andTristan Phippswereamongtheboys show whattheycoulddo.BenWackett, William 3rd XIcombinedwithsome1stplayersto which allowedachanceforthebestof the seasonsawagameagainstWellington fielding astheydropped6catches.Abreakin showed thattheyneededtoworkontheir but batting. Stowelostthematchby90runs problem theyhadallseasonwastheirdepthin against Rugbysawsomefinebowlingbutthe not winninganothergame.Theirnextgame 3rd XIfacedtougheropponentsandendedup totheseason;however start The perfect 3rd XI2012 2nd XI2012

Edward Howes; Harry Cockbill;JamesDrax. Edward Howes;Harry EdwardSelby-Lowndes;Roberts; Luke Pepera; William Jones;Frederick FitzHerbert; Harry Todd; Frederick Ulmann;HugoKinahan; Dixon-Smith; SamuelWhitbread;Andrew Newman;Harry Guy Dixon-Smith;Arthur Sethi; Joseph Sutton;JoshuaSidharth Wightman; Frederick Consett; Elliott;Harry Edward Smith; ChristopheCarrelet; players:- Franklin Johnson(captain);Broghan The 2ndXIsquadconsistedofthefollowing over thecourseofseason. usual thereweresomecrackingencounters Although theteamhadfewergamesthan will betakingoverthecaptaincyrole nextyear. sorely missed.Well donetoWilliam Joneswho A greatseasonallroundandtheleavers willbe ofthetotalbyjust13runs. and theyfellshort again thelackofbatsmenletboys down the game waslookingto be awin for Stowe but ending.TheStoicsbowledfirstand fairytale against Oakhambutitwasnottobethe well.Theboys’finalgamewas bowled very so astoplayinthematch,hebattedand Luke Pepera quickly who recoveredfrominjury conditions andspecialmentionmustgoto victory. windy Bedfordwasplayedinvery neededfor were unabletochasetheruns as againstbothoppositionswebowledwellbut batsmen. Thisprovedtobeour‘Achilles heel’ Ben Wackett andTheoGregsonbothourtop Mr William Hearne Mr IsaacMichael

© R & H Chapman Photography © R & H Chapman Photography

© R & H Chapman Photography © R & H Chapman Photography 30 overstoproduceacommendable175/7 towinemphatically,performance batting success andStoweproducedagreat Oundle. However, thisprovedtobea were onlyabletoplayonegameawayat examinations,they and alsotheGCSE season thisyear, andduetodreadfulrain The ColtsBwerehitwithashortened Colts B Lowndes withtheball.Thisteamhasproven bat, andFred UllmanandEdwardSelby- Dixon-SmithandDrewToddHarry withthe by with someoutstandingperformances team wonbothofthosegamesconvincingly Oundlesideaway.much morepowerful The wilful Rugbysideandthesecondagainsta two matcheswereplayed,thefirstagainsta withtheColts.Inendonly customary playing anexpansivestyleofcricket during thescheduledpracticesandenjoyed outinfullforce theboysturned GCSEs for theteam.Despitepreparingtheir which cancelledthreeofthefivematches bypoorweather contracted evenfurther ColtsAcricketThe shortened seasonwas Colts A Junior ColtsA2012 Colts B2012 Matthews of Bruce House. Matthews ofBruce therefore playeroftheseasonwasHarry Matthews 4for21).Manofthematchand (Rees4for12, 106 towinby69runs bowled outOundleintheirfinaloverfor (Matthews 39,Ellison38).Stowethen I look forward toseeingthemprogressinto I lookforward ofthegame. high successrateinallformats sideandhaveenjoyedavery formidable over thelastthreeyearsthattheyarea Colts A2012 Mr CharlieBarker Junior ColtsA improved inallareasofthegame. season anddemonstratedhowmuch theteamhad The festivalprovidedagoodend to atruncated with amaximumtowinthegame. needed fromthefinalover snuckhome Warwick tight bowlingfromtheStoweattack. With 6 always kept their noses justinfrontdespitesome from their20overs.Warwick beganstronglyand hitting fromTom Hunnable,guidedStoweto119-8 ablyassistedbysomelate Scott andMontyCurran, themselves indeeptroubleat68-7beforeJames once again.Havingbeenputintobat,Stowefound Kimbolton Schooltosetupafinalagainst Warwick versus victory stage, Stowehadanail-biting6run 80. Inthefinalmatchofroundrobingroup with flightandguiletodismiss forapaltry Warwick spinners, Tom Young bowled andMontyCurran, in thefieldwithgreatenergyandskill.Thetwo from their20overs,Stowewentaboutwork Warwick Schoolteam.Havingpostedamodest120 faced amuchstifferchallengeagainsttalented fine battingfrom Keeping, CowleyandBell,Stowe Akeley Wood intheopeninggamethankstosome aside Havingbrushed in thelastweekofterm. encouraging showinginStowe’shomeT20festival The teamfinishedofftheseasonwithavery looking todothisnextyear. bemoreofthe team and thereshouldcertainly making thestepuptoSeniorcricket thisseason has beenexcellenttoseesomeoftheJuniorColts led byTom Young withJackKeeping ashisVC.It desire toimprovetheirskills.Theteamwasably Browne haveshownexcellentapplicationand Tom andespeciallyKyle Hunnable,MontyCurran players haveshowngoodimprovementsthisyear. wins overcloserivalsBloxhamandOakham.Many lots ofrainaffectingmatches.We havehad good for theboystogetanyrhythmtheirseasonwith totheseason.Ithasbeen difficult and windystart season tourtoSpainbeforecominghomeawet andsuccessful pre The JuniorColtshadawarm teamers. bunch ofthemendingupasregularlyfirst the Seniorteamsnextyearwithagood Mr RichardPickersgill The StoicThe Mr MarkBlew Sport 137

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Junior Colts B 2012 excellent if nerve-wracking win over Oakham Yearlings A 2012 on the final Saturday of term. Having posted Yearlings A a terrific total of 191 from our 30 overs, courtesy of a wonderful 114 from Brennan Played 9; Won 5; Drew 0; Lost 4 ably supported by Ali Martin and Ollie Woodward, we then proceeded to provide our worst fielding and bowling performance and The best place for cricketing weather? Spain… nearly threw it all away by leaving them 12 to obviously. After a successful couple of days win off the last over… George Markham then (‘training camp’ sounds more professional) in bowled a very cool last over, took the La Manga, a group of enthusiastic Yearlings remaining two wickets and then asked his cricketers returned to Stowe raring to go. Pumped emotionally shattered coaches what all the up. Dreaming of runs and wickets in the process fuss was about… © R & H Chapman Photography of vanquishing Uppingham, Oundle, Oakham and

© R & H Chapman Photography And so to the Yearlings Festival, this year at the rest… St Joseph’s College, Ipswich, for the to chase in their 50 overs. The undoubted term?) and it was a case of ‘Well batted, highlight of this great display was a tenth Cheltenham’. To their immense credit, the Junior Colts C 2012 The Met Office had other ideas, however, and denouement of the season. And it was here wicket partnership of 78 between Caio Stowe boys kept at it in difficult conditions on after 3 weeks of indoor nets/Mochan fitness we felt that the team peaked. Two very strong Castellini Baldissera (certainly the best Italian a flat pitch and were worthy runners-up. displays against Ardingly and St Joseph’s sessions/trying outdoor nets sessions before cricketer that I’ve come across) and Guy (the latter seeing us post 292 in 50 overs A very happy three days ‘on tour’ together giving up after the third heavy shower/classroom Seddon which kept Cheltenham out in the with Gough, Woodward, Ellis-Jenkinson and which saw some major progress in many of the sessions for Jonty Rhodes fielding masterclasses, field for another 14 overs and provided a Harrison Tucker in the runs and Alex Smith boys, a great team spirit for the first time this we took the field against Bloxham on 16 May. significant challenge to their batsmen – or so taking four wickets) saw us into the final season really and some real promise for the And an excellent start it proved to be with an we hoped…. emphatic 75 run win on a very soft pitch, Brennan against an unbeaten Cheltenham College future of Stowe cricket. on the last day. One of the best batting displays I’ve seen from Gough leading the way with an excellent 65 and Best Batsman: Brennan Gough. Best Bowler: a team of 14 year olds followed and they had then 3 wickets. Woodward wins the toss and then after a George Markham. Best Fielder: Ali Markham. reached the target in 42 overs for the loss of dramatic start which saw our top three back Best Team Man: Sam Riley. Most Improved In spite of these hopeful beginnings, an extended three wickets… Their ‘gun’ batsman in the hutch with the total lurching at 30-odd, Player: Frazer Ellis Jenkinson. Coaches’ Player trough of poor form, not helped by more (+ opening bowler + captain – how a terrific team performance (with particular of the Season: Ollie Woodward. frustrating weather, followed. We managed to boring…!) had reached three figures with © R & H Chapman Photography mention of contributions from Sam Riley, snatch defeat from the jaws of victory with two consummate ease (for the sixth time that Smith and Markham) gave Cheltenham 275 Mr Mochan and Mr Henry Swayne very poor run chases against Rugby (chasing just the season. Endless weather-affected over 100 on a wet, cold, windy, miserable day) and Junior Colts C sessions in the nets and on the practice Oundle (a target of 123 on a scorching afternoon wickets did not dampen their spirits, nor during the ‘one week heatwave’) on successive The unseasonably inclement weather forced their characterful and amicable demeanour Saturdays. These disappointments sandwiched a fixture cancellations, resulting in only four on the field of play. In their camaraderie as Yearlings C Yearlings D heavy loss in the County Cup against RGS High matches for the Junior Colts C team; with a team, their friendliness to the opposition, Wycombe, whose county batsman dispatched our A mixed season for the Yearlings C, winning three but losing four of their seven fixtures. Although the weather was less than losses to the Buckinghamshire Grammar and their respect for the very human spirit fragile bowling attack around the South Front… Narrow defeats against Oratory and RCI were low points, where Stowe dominated both cooperative, the Yearlings D team was able to schools, Royal Latin and Dr. Challoner’s, of competition, these Stoics reflected the games for long periods but were the architects of their own defeats with a slow run rate play all three end of season fixtures. A close balanced with wins against Oratory and Another (more encouraging) defeat to Bedford very best aspects of this game which we costing the team victory. High points of the season were the comprehensive victories over opener against ultimately Bedford. Highlights have included: George followed after half-term before this talented but call cricket. Oundle and Rugby which Stowe dominated with both bat and ball. Opening batsman and resulted in a loss, but proved to be a match Barham’s dazzling display of chinaman under performing team finally hit some form! captain, Lendrum, was a consistent performer with the bat, the highlight being a quickfire 50 that boosted the team’s confidence as they bowling against the Oratory, twice on a Team players: Murray Aitchison, Somerset A comfortable victory (due mainly to a massive against Oundle, hitting 5 fours and 2 sixes along the way. He was ably assisted by his opening went on to win their remaining two matches. hat-trick and eventually finishing with 6-19; Akerman, James Angle, George Barham, hitting 60 from Frazer Ellis-Jenkinson) over Balthazar Issa’s plucky catch against Alexander Birdwood, Jacques Candler, Bedford Modern was then followed up by an partner, Hechle, and by the threatening seam bowling of Johnson, and the reliable tight spin Captain Harry Norris led the team in runs and Dr. Challoner’s, opening an account in his Kiaran Carney, Jaimie Croom-Johnson, bowling of Constantinidi. There was much to be proud of the way the team performed, but batted his first half century in the closing first ever match; and the blustering batting Michael Edwards, Benjamin George also some frustration that some of the defeats could not have been turned into victories. match of the season. It was a well played season both in the field and at bat and the partnership of Benjamin George and Kiaran (captain), Edward Hopkinson, Balthazar Player of the season: Lendrum (Temple) Carney against the Bedford bowlers, when Issa, Kai Komai, William Lewis, James Yearlings should be proud of their play. Mr Shaun Aston each delivery was despatched to some Macdonald, Oscar Marment, Edward Rolls, Yearlings B corner of the ground. Henry Sylvester and Ben ter Haar. Ms Chelsea Wagner The Yearling B team have been a pleasure to Yearlings C, D and E 2012 As ever, it was the good humour and fine coach this year. Full of energy and enthusiasm sportsmanship of the boys which defined Mr Anthony Macpherson and Mr Tony Chan they approached every game and training session with a purpose and determination to Yearlings E improve. The side was captained superbly by Yearlings B 2012 Ben Keeping. This is the first year Stowe has fielded a Yearlings E team. Unfortunately, despite The team had great wins over Oakham by 130 students being hungry for cricket action, runs, Bloxham by 21 runs and Buckinghamshire training and matches were restricted by U12s by 14 runs. Everyone has performed poor weather and a fearful opposition. consistently well. Ciao Castellini Baldissera, We only had one game against a very strong Oscar Williams, Inigo Lendrum and Guy Seddon Eton side in which we were second (Eton all hit 50 or more during the season. They were declared 249-9 Stowe all out for 22). The also supported brilliantly on the bowling front boys learned a great deal from this and their by Toni Kuku, Edward Tilleard, Allwell Opuala- team spirit carried them through. Hopefully Charles, Nyan Patel, Tom Carr and Harry next year further progress will be made. Bunting. A great season, well done.

© R & H Chapman Photography Mr Michael Rickner © R & H Chapman Photography Mr Kevin Ryce

138 The Stoic The Stoic 139 Sport Sport

Junior Colts A Junior Colts A 2012 Boys’ Tennis Played 8; Won 1; Lost 7 The season started brightly with a good win 1st VI 2012 against Oakham and although it remained their solitary victory the boys were close to repeating this in so many of the games in 1st VI each set. Lindsay and Ellison, the 1st pair, were often © R & H Chapman Photography Played 8; Won 3; Lost 5 up 40-30 but inconsistent stroke play and inevitably a lack of belief saw them squander stake their claim but inconsistency proved won all his last three sets against This year’s 1st VI was captained by Arthur these opportunities and games and sets were it difficult to stick with regular pairings as Marlborough; one to watch out for. lost by these narrow margins. Selection was Hobhouse, partnered by Jasper Simpkin. results went against them. Amongst the disappointment, I have to Imran Momen, William McGovern, Andrey difficult and all the following boys have some congratulate all the above for their continued The one boy to improve and stand out over Drumov and Roderick Blackburne were good strokes but lack a solid second serve enthusiasm and attitude. They never failed to the term was Ed Hopkinson who started in the players who made up the rest of the and their performances swerved from good make training even though the weather often team. A rather monsoon-like start to the to bad and back again over the term. the Bs but worked hard at his game, in tried to dampen spirits. © R & H Chapman Photography season seemed to dampen spirits and Spooner, Rougier, Reddyhough, Marmion, particular his second serve and worked his reduced the practice time available. Despite win three of their matches convincingly. win against Abingdon 6-3. Baring and Tucker all had opportunities to way up the rankings and I was pleased he Mr Alan Hughes the waning morale, the boys managed to The most impressive of which was their Mr Craig Sutton

games went to deuce but the confidence and Yet again inconsistency and unavailability meant pairings changed but Tucker, Baring, 2nd VI 2012 Junior Colts B consistency weren’t there. A desperation to win the point with the first couple of shots Simpson, De Rato, Tyrrell, Rolls, Harding all contributed to the season and their regular Played 7; Won 1; Lost 6 often meant we gave the point to the opposition rather than them earning it. attendance at training was a credit to their 2nd VI passion and enthusiasm for the game during Patience is a virtue at tennis and simply a very wet and soggy Summer term. Played 5; Won 3; Lost 2 A mirror image of the A team. After beating wearing your opponent down by just getting Oakham the season took a turn for the the ball in can force them to become too Mr Alan Hughes worse in terms of results. Yet again many eager and force the play to their cost. This was a successful term of tennis, despite the fact that the first match was played in a deluge of rain. The pairs were rather fluid this year based Yearlings A 2012 on relative scarcity and numerous commitments. The following players represented the 2nd VI Yearlings most often: Nicholas Paine, Kit Dixon-Smith, © R & H Chapman Photography Arthur Lonsdale, Elliot O’Brien, Nicholas Varney St Edward’s (this was mixed with the girls) Lonsdale, who gelled well as a pair This year the Yearlings A and B tennis teams and Thomas Baylis with Jack Barham and Titus 6-3. I was impressed with the work ethic of and practised much outside of have trained hard and come up against some Edwards playing occasionally. The boys went on the majority of players. However, the most scheduled sessions. fierce opposition from rivalling schools. After to beat Abingdon 9-0, Trent College 7-2 and impressive were Kit Dixon-Smith and Arthur Mr Ben Ponniah an initial bruising encounter against Abingdon (who fielded a number of top county players in their Yearlings squad), the Stowe players Colts A 2012 regained composure and went on to perform very well in their subsequent matches against Bedford Modern and St Edward’s Oxford. With

the rain decimating the Yearlings fixture list it © R & H Chapman Photography Colts was very difficult for players to show their true colours, but the outstanding pair of the season Yearlings B 2012 The Colts tennis squad enjoyed another were the A team first pair of Max Ringer and hugely successful season and won all matches James Greenley. at first team level. Fine victories over the likes This year the Yearlings managed to be strong of Abingdon, Oakham, Rugby and St Edward’s at both A team and B team levels. Our regular ensured that this group of players has gone team players were Tom Constable-Maxwell, through three years of team tennis completely Sebastian Reader, James Moor, William unbeaten. Cole, Edwards, Beazley, De Boinville, Younger, Alvaro de la Vega, Pablo Rodriguez- Brogden, Hiley and Noest were regulars and Pina, Freddie Paling, Mauricio Cymet-Monroy, supported ably by Van de Koppel, Milne, © R & H Chapman Photography Tom Walters, Toby Attard-Manché, Benedict Coldstream, Wheeler and Soper-Gwatidzo. the Stoics invariably allowed them to representative tennis at Sixth Form level. Alderson and Isaac Ajala. Well done to all who Very few sets were dropped and whenever a prevail. All members of this talented squad played this season.

set went to a tiebreak, the competitiveness of will be able to go on and play Mr Rory Akam Mr Roland Johnson © R & H Chapman Photography

140 The Stoic The Stoic 141 Sport Sport Girls’ Tennis 4th VI 4th VI 2012 Played 3; Won 2; Lost 1

The 4th tennis team played against Trent 1st VI 2012 College, Bloxham and St Edward’s this season. We won two matches and lost only one. I was impressed by the fiercely competitive 1st VI nature of all the games. Each point was fought This year’s 1st VI was captained by Chloe Stewart, for and maximum effort expended. All the girls really enjoyed playing competitive tennis and partnered by Charlotte Lechmere. Megan Duckett, consequently their game improved. Charlotte Berrill, Maddie Wackett and Alice Hughes were the players who made up the rest of the team. Mrs Gemma Bonner and Ms Valerie Green © R & H Chapman Photography It is worth pointing out that Megan, Charlotte B, Maddie and Alice are all Fifth Form Stoics so at times were playing girls two years older than them. It was an unusual start to the Summer term chance for us to play and enjoy a competitive with the persistent wet weather meaning we match. From here the U15A went on to A very wet start to the term diluted the opportunity defeat Trent 6-3, St Edward’s 6-3, Bloxham for the number of hours we would have like of for could not go outside to practise so we © R & H Chapman Photography 7-2, only narrowly losing to Rugby 4-5. At this practice, and on day four of term we travelled to U15A travelled to our first fixture, knowing this was stage our first pair of Tilly Upton and Annabel Oakham where we only managed to pick up one the first time we had hit a tennis ball this Rushton, since dropping two sets at Oakham, set all afternoon. was now playing to its full potential. Two mixed captain of Girls’ Tennis next year. Senior House season! Fresh from La Manga, however, the fixtures against Bloxham and St Edward’s were Tennis was won by Nugent, retaining their title Oakham team was strong but it was a good had won every set they played which was With spirits dampened in more ways than one the both won by Stowe. as did Queen’s in the Intermediate category. extremely impressive. We had two tough girls trained hard before winning their next match Junior House competition was won by Queen’s. U15 A 2012 fixtures to end the season against Oundle against Bloxham without losing a set. With a Senior colours were awarded to Chloe Stewart. and Marlborough but there were notable convincing win against St Edward’s 8-1 the team Megan Duckett has been selected to be Mr John Skinner performances from Tessa Horan and Tilda Bevan who defeated the Oundle 1st pair and narrowly lost to the Marlborough 1st pair in a 2nd VI 2012 tie break. The girls all worked hard making a valuable contribution to their team’s success with Claudia and Lucy holding their own at 2nd VI 3rd pair. They all developed their tactical A very successful term’s tennis after the first awareness, adapting well to the ever match which suffered from lack of practice due changing weather conditions, and have been to the wettest drought on record. a pleasure to watch play! Junior Tennis Colours are awarded to Tilly Having settled down into their pairings, 1st pair Upton, Annabel Rushton, Tessa Horan and were Becca Dale and Bella Wallersteiner, 2nd pair Lucy Smith and Lucy Horan and 3rd pair Caroline Tilda Bevan

Thompson and Katkin Farr. Charlotte Cook and © R & H Chapman Photography Mrs Sarah Sutton Imogen Voorspuy made the occasional

appearance during exam time. © R & H Chapman Photography an exciting match at Bloxham which was tense Dima Georgieva who made a valuable The girls went on to beat Trent 7-2, Bloxham 9-0 for the girls’ tennis to play with and against It is good to know that five of the squad will as it went to the last game but Annie and Lizzie contribution to the team. and St Edward’s 8-1. the boys. Mixed tennis is always enjoyed both be with us again next year. came off the court with smiles on their faces to Two mixed games saw them unbeaten against by the players and the spectators and provides U15B win the match overall (5-4). A mention also to Mrs Sarah Sutton Bloxham and St Edward’s and it was really good a far more relaxed feel around the court. Mr John Skinner U15 B 2012 Played 6; Won 3; Lost 3

3rd VI 2012 Charlotte Hodson, Flora Marriot, Anastasia Brunette-Jacobs, Elizabeth Witkowski, Wilhelmina Barham, Isabelle Boorman 3rd VI The U15Bs have had a successful, balanced season winning three matches and losing Played 5; Won 3; Lost 2 three matches! They produced some excellent performances and approached their games with a positive outlook. Lottie Hodson and Despite the pouring rain and gale force winds that Flora Marriot made a good partnership and © R & H Chapman Photography defined the summer of 2012 the 3rd tennis team the highlight was their three set win against managed to play five matches. We played against the conditions were more suitable for winter year so we look forward to even better Rugby 7-2. Against Trent 6-3 it was great as all Oakham, Trent College, Bloxham, St Edward’s and sports. Each match saw an improvement in results. three pairs beat their opposite number which Rugby winning three and losing two. All the consistency and team work. Luckily most of was particularly pleasing for Willa and Izzy

matches were played in good spirit even though the team will be playing for Stowe again next Mrs Gemma Bonner and Ms Valerie Green who were delighted to hold their own. We had © R & H Chapman Photography

142 The Stoic The Stoic 143 Sport Sport

us the fortune of playing from a squad of reaching the county round of the Road to eight. Victories over Oakham, Rugby, Tudor Wimbledon and the fact that we had to play Hall and Marlborough were all tough battles against Marlborough without her experience and it was good to see them hold their nerve proves how good the squad had become by U14A the last match. and win through in the last round. Millie Bromley Davenport deserves a mention for Mrs Jayne Duckett Basketball Played 8; Won 6; Lost 2

U14 A 2012 We kicked off the main basketball term with In the boys’ competition Temple and Grafton competition. In the boys’ competition Bruce The U14A team comprised Izzy Oliver, Frankie the Senior Inter-House basketball topped their groups to cruise into the were once again in the mix and faced a Knight, Tonia Kozhukhova, Millie Bromley- competition on Sunday 8 January 2012. semi-finals. After a slight scare against Bruce Chandos side who had won all previous Davenport, Jemima Chauveau, Mia Kinahan, Queen’s began with an emphatic win over in the semi-finals, it was Temple that rose games going into the final. Bruce kept their Jemima Fitzjohn and Georgina Walker. Stanhope in their quest to retain the trophy. to the occasion to pull off a great victory nerve and won by four points. against Grafton in the final. The girls played some excellent tennis this season, The other opening game between Nugent With the House matches put to one side appreciating the need to return into key areas of and Lyttelton finished all square. Nugent In the Junior Inter-House matches held the it was time to concentrate on the School the court, serve with accuracy and pace and then cruised past Stanhope to set up the following Sunday Stanhope made amends teams. The Senior team had their first dominate the net as much as possible. The pairings decider against Queen’s. Nugent won it by for the disappointment in the Senior competitive matches in the Wellington have changed throughout the term and we were two points to become this year’s Champions. competition by completely dominating the College Public Schools’ Tournament.

fortunate that there was strength in depth allowing © R & H Chapman Photography Victories against Eton and Pangbourne set the team up with a semi-final against old Seniors 2012 adversaries Bradfield. A narrow defeat against Both matches lost (Marlborough and St Bradfield and a 12-11 loss against Wellington Edward’s) were 5-4 in favour of the College meant a creditable 4th place finish in opposition which gives an indication of how this year’s tournament. With key players close the C team was to a perfect season! departed from the unbeaten team of last U14B U14C Most of the girls had occasional games in the season securing victories for this year’s B team and as a result their ground strokes, young side proved to be harder than they Played 9; Won 6; Lost 3 Played 5; Won 3; Lost 2 volleys and service improved throughout the season. They were committed in practice and had anticipated. Lower Sixth captain Sadiq Abbagana led the way with some fine The U14B team comprised Georgina Walker, Mia The U14C team comprised Kelly-Jo competitive in matches – never giving up and individual performances. Point guard Bruce Kinahan, Jemima Grant, Jemima Fitzjohn, Sorrel Cecile-Pritchard, Polly Stewart-Mills, Milla fighting to the last point. Well done girls! An was a great asset when fit but he was Fenwicke-Clennell, Jeanie Gibbs, Asthina Badcock, Harvey Scholes, Anna Fox, Laura Brogden, plagued with ankle and calf injuries for most Laura Brogden, Saskia Satchell, Daisy Price, Saskia Satchell, Daisy Price, Cameron Nix. Mrs Jayne Duckett Cameron Nix. of the season. One thing about this side is that they never gave up and the biggest

U14 B and C 2012 © R & H Chapman Photography As with the A team, the squad was large and a defeat was by seven points against Bradfield. number of girls had their say in terms of They played ‘out-of-their-skins’ against representing Stowe at B team level. Two of their U16 2012 Buckingham University, losing that one 51-53 games (Oakham and St Edward’s) were lost by a and went down by two against Bedford and small margin of one set which shows how excellent their season actually was. Pairings changed quite a three against Eton. On a brighter note the lot during the first half of the season, but all girls team beat local rivals the Royal Latin 69-27, competed well against some tough opposition and Oakham 50-30, Pangbourne 64-17 and the match of the season was against Thornton A Rugby 82-36. team who had a very strong first pair but our B team This year basketball colours have took the match by five sets to four with a clinching been awarded to Bruce An, Daniel tie break won by Jeanie and Asthina (13-11)! Baniukevic, André Drumov, Harry Allhusen and Luke Pepera.

Mrs Jayne Duckett © R & H Chapman Photography The U16 team had some encouraging performances with wins against The U14 D 2012

© R & H Chapman Photography and The . U14D U14 2012 The U15 team won three of their four games; with the most pleasing being the Played 3; Won 3 32-14 victory against Eton. The U14 team played a few local development matches against Ousedale, The U14D team comprised Annabel Wailes- The Buckingham School and The Royal Latin Fairburn, Danni Fusco-House, Tilly Smith, Louisa School. The boys improved a great deal over Feast, Olivia Walters, Hannah Marshall, Sorrell the course of the season and are very keen to Fenwicke-Clennell, Cameron Nix. continue with their basketball next season. The girls surpassed all expectations with some © R & H Chapman Photography competitive games showing how much they have Coaches: Mr Isaac Michael, Mr Mikkel Moller improved through the course of the term. Both contributed to the success. Beating schools what an exciting future lies ahead for the girls and Miss Gemma Fordham. Sorrell and Cameron moved themselves up to the such as Oakham, St Edward’s and Tudor Hall at Stowe.

B team as well as changing partners, but everyone shows us how talented this year group is and Mrs Jayne Duckett © R & H Chapman Photography Mr Isaac Michael

144 The Stoic The Stoic 145 Sport Sport Netball 1st VII 2012 Football 1st XI 2012 1st VII: Stowe Netball had a very successful 1st XI: At the start of the Lent term, Stowe 2012 season. The 1st VII started the term as took a 16-man squad to play in a pre-season a new team and as the weeks progressed tournament to face Rugby, Oakham and they developed into an extremely dynamic, Uppingham. After three 50 minute games, cohesive unit. The level of competition on Stowe beat Uppingham, drew with Rugby

the Netball circuit is high so the girls did and lost to the eventual winners, Oakham. © R & H Chapman Photography particularly well to win five of their matches, The squad managed third place, equal points © R & H Chapman Photography finishing the season at their best by defeating with second only to score one less goal and 2nd XI 2012 one point behind first place. In the first Northampton High School 27-19, 2nd VII 2012 Pangbourne College 25-19 and finally season where football has seen the inclusion drawing 25-25 in a nail-biting match against of a full fixture list, the first team played five Royal Latin. Heloise Kleinwort was awarded games with two cancelled due to the bad ‘Player of the Season’ for her sterling weather. On paper, Stowe recorded one win performance at Goal Attack. She worked and four defeats, however it does not reflect intuitively with Alice Hughes, our Goal how Stowe played against strong footballing Shooter, who should also be commended schools. They were narrowly defeated by two for her considerable impact on the game, goals to one against Kingham Hill and St especially when under pressure. Ruby Mills Edward’s. Defeats were inflicted by Oundle © R & H Chapman Photography became a significant presence on the court 4-1 and Uppingham 6-1, however at half-time Football ties awarded for outstanding game against Oundle and beating St at Goal Defence working diligently to make © R & H Chapman Photography in both games Stowe had only conceded one commitment to the following: Felix Edwards 3-2 in a game which saw Stowe crucial interceptions and turn over goal. In the last game of the season, Stowe Henderson, Edward Wightman, David Akam, completely outplay their opponents who possession and, as a result, was awarded U15 2012 travelled away for the second leg against Nick Varney, Josiah Hartley-Matthew and were lucky not to avoid a heavier defeat. ‘Most Improved Player’. Lucy-May Wallis, Kingham Hill and finished in fine style, Antonio Munoz-Ballester. 2nd XI Captain, Alex Hambro Rabben who was injured in the pre-season winning 2-1 on away soil. From the start of (Grenville); Top Goal scorer, Thomas Baylis tournament at Bedford Modern, recovered next season, the Stowe 1st XI will be playing Mr Neil Crossley (Bruce); Player of the Season, William later in the term to make a most welcomed in the Mercian League. They will be playing Watson (Chandos). return to the team bringing her depth of against seven other schools, including 2nd XI: The second team played four games, experience and inspiration to the court, Oundle, Loughborough Grammar, winning two and losing two. The season got Mr Shaun Aston proving to be invaluable in defence. Eleanor Bromsgrove and Oakham. off to a disappointing start at Uppingham, Pinnock, Rebecca Dale and Claudia Bett were 1st XI captain, Felix Henderson (Chatham); conceding a sloppy goal inside the first five 3rd XI: The 3rd XI team made their the crucial link between the attack and Vice captain, Edward Wightman (Chatham); minutes and losing 3-1. However, there were only appearance in a home game against defence playing as dynamic force in the Top goal scorer, Folabi Lawal (Bruce – 5); signs towards the end of the game that St Edward’s. The team managed a well centre court. A special mention must go to © R & H Chapman Photography Players of the Season, Antonio Muñoz- Stowe were a good footballing team, and this deserved 4-1 win with Oliver Findley Yemurai Soper-Gwatidzo, the captain of the Ballester (Chatham) and Josiah Hartley- was reflected in recording an impressive 2-1 (Grafton) scoring a hat trick. team, who has played 1st team Netball for U14A 2012 Matthew (Cobham). win away from home to a tough and physical Dr Paul Miller three years. She is an excellent Wing Defence who can read the game and break down play so effectively. She was awarded her hard but managed to hand over to Charlton Colours for her performance and for being Kerr dead level with Marling. Charlton then an ambassador for this sport. It was a produced a very mature performance, thoroughly enjoyable season made by a Cross-country regularly putting in short bursts that left his group of highly motivated, enthusiastic Upper Sixth opponent having to fight hard players with considerable potential. We say to get back on terms. A strong final push goodbye to Yemurai, but it is exciting that The cross-country team has had a good season. They started at the Knole with about a kilometre to go helped otherwise, this team can continue to improve Run in Kent, which is always a tough start to the term as it is a 10km race. Charlton finally break the will of his © R & H Chapman Photography and play together next year! A trip to Coventry followed for the King Henry Relays. opponent and he brought the Stowe team a player, over the past three years. Harriet High School. They proved to be extremely home in second, our best ever result in 2nd VII: The 2nd VII consisted of a big Comyn, who played in defence, was given talented and athletic, developing quickly as this race. development squad, ranging from Fourth We had a strong six out this year and would In the County Championships Josh the ‘Most Improved Player’ and we can look a team to enjoy considerable success. There Form to Upper Sixth, who all worked hard certainly expect to improve upon our 41st Dickinson secured the Silver medal in the The team finished a good week by forward to her influence on the court next were notable performances from Rosie together throughout the term to improve place in last year’s race and possibly our best Senior Boys’ race ahead of brother Caspar in completing a clean sweep against the year. Harriet Deakin was frequently voted Dickson, Matilda Bevan and Tessa Horan in their level of performance and achieve ever result of 28th. Josh Dickinson got us 3rd place. These two together with Charlton Old Stoics, taking the first seven places ‘Player of the Match’ for her impressive the U15 team and Anna Fox, Amelia Bromley success. They were competitive on the court going with a strong run to put us into the Kerr in the Junior Boys’ event were selected and the overall victory in the annual fixture. performance at Goal Attack. With so much Davenport and Matilda Smith in the U14 winning four matches and drawing two top ten of the 80+ teams taking part. Twin for the Bucks County team to run in the Harrison Dockerty from the Third Form potential their progress will be interesting team – well done! throughout the season. They remained brother Caspar took over for the second leg English Schools’ Championships. did particularly well to finish 3rd. to follow next year as they become more and helped to keep up our challenge at the determined to build on their experiences Thank you to the coaching team – Jane This was followed by a great result in the The season finished with Josh and Caspar coherent and experienced. sharp end. Good efforts from captain and were adaptable to cope with the Hamblett-Jahn, Eleanor Donaldson, Valerie Tortoise Relays at Oxford. Josh led our team Dickinson racing in the English Schools Ed Robinson, George Ellison and Will Plant number of players involved, giving everyone Junior Netball: During their netball choice Green, Ian Findlay-Palmer, Louise Carter. away and improved by one place on his Championships. Both ran well to finish in saw us drop just a few places to 16th before the opportunity to represent the team. activity on a Tuesday and Thursday result from last year, taking the Silver medal the top half of the field of 350 starters. The The Inter-House Competitions were won by Charlton Kerr took over for the final leg The ‘Player of the Season’ was awarded to afternoon the junior girls had the for the second fastest leg of the day. Caspar brothers were less than a minute apart at the Nugent (Seniors), Queen’s (Intermediate), and brought us back up 14th. the captain, Molly Davison who was also opportunity to play some matches against followed with another fine run that kept us finish with Caspar just ahead in 91st place. Stanhope (Juniors). commended with Colours for her significant local schools including Akeley Wood, The team then had a run of good results in ahead of Marling and only just behind contribution to Netball, as a role model and Thornton, Royal Latin and Northampton Mrs Sarah Sutton the second half of term. Abingdon. Nico Gilbert had to work really Mr Tony McDaid

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School Matches Thomas Johnson, William Pepera, Rex Junior Boys Relay Team Adams, Alex Long and Seun Coker finished (T Johnson, T Opuala-Charles, A Diaconu, The Athletics Team had a good start to the O Coker), 49.2 (50.3, 1990) season with a home match against Aylesbury 2nd. However, the performance of the day Grammar, Cokethorpe and Royal Latin. The came from Jack Wallis, who threw a massive Kalil Ali, Inter Boy 400m, 51.1 Junior Boys (JB) and Intermediate Girls (IG) 44.89m to win the Discus. (J Anderson, 52.2s, 1983) both missed an overall team win by 9 points, Outstanding achievements Jack Wallis, Inter Boy Discus, 44.89m with the Intermediate Boys (IB) and Junior A special mention goes to the captain (G Critchley, 40.06m, 19.81) Girls (JG) also taking 2nd place. The following Mike Illingworth (Cobham) for his attitude Saturday, the Boys’ team traveled away to Henry Rudd, Senior Boy Javelin, 48.92m compete in the Butler Trophy at Harrow towards athletics and his help in home School, which is a high class competition with matches. Aleksia Zivanovic, Junior Girl 800m and 1500m, 2m43.1s and 5m42.4s top schools of Harrow, Eton, St Paul’s and Congratulations to Jack Wallis (Bruce) for Haileybury attending. Out of eight schools, attending the English Schools’ National Kelly-Jo Cecile-Pritchard, Junior Girl High the JB team finished a very respectable 5th Championships in Gateshead on 6 and 7 July Jump, 1.41m place and the IB and Senior Boys’ (SB) were 2012, and ranked 7th best in the UK for his 6th. On the same day, the Girls’ team visited Jemima Grant, Junior Girl Discus, 17.50m age group. Rugby. With seven schools in attendance, the Edwina Longe, Inter Girl 300m, 47.6s JG ended the day in 5th place, whilst the IG School Records broken this year with long Heloise Kleinwort, Inter Girl 80m Hurdles, had a fantastic set of results to claim 2nd. This standing records highlighted in brackets: year saw Stowe host their biggest competition 12.4s Seun Coker, Junior Boy 100m, 11.6 to date; inviting seven other schools including Hannah Tilleard, Inter Girl High Jump, 1.40m Cheltenham, Malvern, Bedford and Rugby (J Miller, 11.8, 1964) Rosie Dickson, Inter Girl Triple Jump, 8.78m across both boys and girls age groups. Frazer Ellis Jenkinson, Junior Boy 200m, 24.0 The JB, IB and IG performed exceptionally (T Bassett, 24.4, 1963) Valerie Madojemu, Inter Girl Javelin, 25.12m well, finishing second overall in a high quality competition. The SB and JG were both Charlton Kerr, Junior Boy 800m, 2m 07.7s Inter Girls Relay Team (E Clark, E Longe, achieved a well-deserved 4th place. (R Dawson, 2m11.4s, 1961) J Carne, H Kleinwort), 55.1s The last school match of the season saw the Jamie Ropner, Junior Boy High Jump, 1.63m Mr Neil Crossley and Mr Mike Dawson JB, JG and IB compete for the first time in the (H Baird, 1.62m, 1989) Oakham Relays. The races were a number of unusual relays and all three age groups Athletics Team 2012 returned with a handful of 2nd, 3rd and 4th place finishes. Athletics Sports Day The day before Speech Day saw all the Houses compete in the annual Sports Day competition. There were many close encounters in both track and field events, in which seven girls’ records and four boys’ records were broken during the afternoon. Results Junior Boys: Chandos Intermediate Boys: Bruce Senior Boys: Chandos Junior Girls: Stanhope Intermediate Girls: Queen’s Senior Girls: Nugent Overall Boys: Chandos Overall Girls: Queen’s County Schools The Third, Fourth and Fifth Form travelled to High Wycombe for the County Schools’ Athletics Championships on 16 June. 35 Stoics competed against the best in the county, resulting in five champions and a number of podium finishes. In windy conditions, Heloise Kleinwort finished a very respectable 2nd in the 80m Hurdles, with Valerie Madojemu 3rd in the Javelin. Thomas Hunnable in the Javelin, Jamie Ropner in the High Jump, Frazer Ellis Jenkinson in the 100m and Triumph Opuala-Charles in the Triple Jump all returned as champions, while Kalil Ali,

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This year’s sailing team has been mainly composed of Stoics from the Fifth and Fourth Forms. Their lack of experience is compensated for by their enthusiasm and refusal to give in, even when competing against much older sailors or people who sail in national teams or at world events. At the British Schools’ Dinghy Racing Association Midland Championships at Farmoor reservoir near Oxford, the team put in a good performance, given the reduced training so close to the beginning of term. They improved significantly during the course of the day and captains Charlie Barnes and Will Barnes each came second in one of their races and results might have been different if protests had been accepted. In the match against Bloxham, Stowe lost 2-1, although Stowe made a good start in the first race and were in a winning position by the end of the first lap. In the second lap, however, although Theo Shepherd-Smith cruised ahead to first place, Stowe ended up one point down. The second race produced a capsize among the Stowe boats, but they succeeded in the final race. In the BSDRA Eastern Championships at Rutland Rowing Water the Stowe team competed confidently against some very impressive schools. Several of their races were closely fought and in one of their matches they The 2011/12 Stowe Rowing Club in Rugby, Lacrosse and Hockey, many Third it has been possible to build a development defeated Haileybury. Form Stoics had the opportunity to try their squad of 15 experienced rowers. The arrival goes from strength to strength. Several Stoics new to sailing have made significant hand at the noblest of sports and we hope of the new boats has allowed us to turn our We will be very sad to see James Rudkin to see several of them return in their Fourth attention to developing our sweep-oar progress. For most of the term we have had good winds, leave, but we hope we are able to see him Form. However, our main focus was to rowing capabilities (remarkably popular but one calm day allowed many to improve their capsize in the potential 2016 Olympic Crew. Max develop those pupils who had already had following the wide coverage of this year’s skills. The fleet of 420s at Great Moor still give good service Marston (Fifth Form, Bruce) is representing at least a year’s rowing experience. At Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race!). From this but we are looking forward to a new fleet of Fireflies, as the Eastern Region. Northampton Head, we saw Rebecca Wild squad we have been able to form both a used at most championships these days, thanks in large (Fifth Form, Stanhope) and Rosie coxed men’s and women’s four, two part to the generosity of a benefactor. The Toppers on the This year has seen some extremely Williamson (Fourth Form, Lyttelton) put a doubles and several singles. The squad will Eleven Acre Lake at Stowe allow younger pupils to test generous donations from four benefactors very competitive time only to lose in the be training at Pangbourne over a three day themselves against the vagaries of the wind as it eddies of the club. Firstly, we have sourced the last 100 metres to some club crews. The J15 period at the end of the term, with the around the trees. funds for a complete redesign and build coxed quad of George Anderson, Alex potential to visit Henley Royal Regatta on of the Sculling Shed on the Eleven Acre In the finals of the House matches Cobham, won against Parsonson, Somerset Akerman (all Fourth the final day. Lake. The initial plans look very impressive, genuine competition from Temple, Grafton and Queen’s. Form, Chatham) and Tom Roxburgh and with extensive racking, larger floor space As always, this year’s successes would not It was good to see five other houses also fielding teams. It Will Dodge (both Fourth Form, Cobham) and natural lighting through skylights. be possible without the support and provided a storming time to win their was an excellent afternoon of sailing in a moderate breeze. The reconstruction is due to be undertaken commitment of the staff, Michael Righton, division and the first trophies of the season. Almost all the teams showed both competence and good at the end of July. We have also been able Philippa Gleave, Ellie Donaldson and Chris sportsmanship. Thanks again are due to Mr Gwilym Jones to purchase two new double/pair However, due to unfortunate weather, Grimble (our new super-coach arrival from and Mr David Critchley for their help throughout the term. convertibles (Virtue and Instream 1) and our performance within the racing calendar KCS, Wimbledon), who are willing to give a coxed four (John Farr). All these boats has been a little less frequent than last year. up their afternoons and weekends to sit on Team: Charlie Barnes and Will Barnes (captains), Theo have been fitted to very high specifications. This has been a source of frustration for launches in the pouring rain and cold. Shepherd-Smith, Alicia Cranwell, Lauren Carley, Fergus This has allowed the pupils to train and both coaches and pupils alike as all those Jones; reserves: Magnus Sligo-Young, Robert Milner. I hope that next year, I am able once again compete in equipment that is suited to involved have shown great determination to write about the wonderful successes that Colours awarded: Charlie Barnes, Will Barnes their requirements. and stamina to train hard in the most our club has had. Until then, cheer hard if House matches: Cobham adverse of conditions. In the first two terms of the year, the you see Stowe Sculling Club on the water! Helmsman’s Tankard: William Barnes demands of other sporting commitments Following the excellent commitment by Grebe Cup: Charlie Barnes meant that it was only possible to form a many, the entry of five Sixth Form girls to Mr Jonathan Peverley Junior Pennant Competition: Theo Shepherd-Smith feasible rowing squad of novices and the sport and the return of Fred Wheeler experienced rowers. During lull periods (Chatham) and Harry Allhusen (Cobham), Mr Michael Bevington

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Badminton Equestrian The Michaelmas term saw the boys’ and girls’ badminton teams Bonnie Leheup (Lyttleton, Fourth Form) Equestrian activities have continued Daisy Ussher riding being stretched and challenged to to flourish this past year. This term who had qualified for Grassroots and Tamara Little Mickey Finn GB squad 2011 Rowan-Hamilton (Stanhope, Lower Sixth) breaking point. Our opponent Golf has seen the completion of our who had qualified for the National Schools ‘’Being able to keep Mickey Finn at school, schools have stepped up their brand new stabling and riding championships, had worked hard in with the added benefit of it being such a well games dramatically, making the The golf team has enjoyed huge Carnoustie (Open Championship venue). preparation for these events but will now facilities project. equipped place, enabled me to keep training taste of victory less frequent for Competing with the very best of UK junior have to wait a while longer before competing for the Eventing teams alongside working success once again, particularly The new equestrian centre is splendid and all our keen players. golfers Ben Robinson, Matteo di Carlofelice at these events. towards my A Levels. Mrs Hughes was so kind in its routine fixtures against our ready to come to life in September! The newly and Ben Jenkins all acquitted themselves and flexible with my timing constraints and I Instead, success this term has been built yard has 21 loose boxes and an outdoor However many Stoics have been busy traditional opponents. well. For the last three years we have been always knew that she and her team looked measured through the development of school, with cross country facilities to follow competing and Philippa Stacey has been exceedingly fortunate to have had Ben after Mickey Finn so carefully so I never had sportsmanship skills, learning the value of As before the players have been fortunate in the near future. It is an exciting addition to successful riding her mare, Inca. They have Robinson (now playing off a handicap of to worry about him.’’ being part of a team and how to work within to play at some of the finest golf clubs: our sporting facilities, here within the enjoyed success, qualifying for the Hickstead +1) leading the side; his premature the team and with your partner to improve Woburn, Stoke Park, Woking, Broadway, Pony Club Championships, winning the On Speech Day, we were lucky that the rain grounds, and will enable Stoics of all abilities Rye Hill, …not to forget Carnoustie. departure – at Fifth Form – for the USA will kept off and the planned display was able to play. The expectation here will be to begin to enjoy riding and horse care. FOXHUNTER class at the Pony Premier and leave us depleted somewhat for next year. take place at the new outdoor school. the 2012/13 term with drive, determination For the first time Stowe entered the the NEWCOMERS 1-1.05. As Ben sets off to become a Professional The Eventing calendar has been somewhat Pictured is Charlie Clover (Chatham Fifth to fight back and regain our previous high Independent Schools’ Golf Association Golfer (and catch Tiger), Stowe’s golf will curtailed by the very wet weather. It was Several Stoics have been lucky enough form) riding Oeste. Oeste, a Lusitano from record of wins. matchplay knock-out tournament and in disappointing when both the Grass roots to bring their ponies to school this year defeating Cheltenham College, RGS be captained by Matteo do Carlofelice. Portugal, is a resident here at Stowe. We have again been fortunate to have our competition, held at Badminton, and the and it has been great to share in all their Worcester and Malvern College we coach, Krishan Thadani, along for three BENS Championships were cancelled. Both different experiences. Mrs Elena Hughes Mr Richard Knight afternoons per week working with the teams. proceeded to the Grand Finals at He was able to give particular focus in training the present Fourth and Fifth Form boys who are now showing great potential Clay Pigeon Shooting for the season next year. The girls choose hockey or lacrosse during the Junior years Captain: Henry Plant (Chatham) Karate and do not join us for badminton until they This year we have had eight matches are in the Sixth Form. Karate at Stowe was introduced in against other schools and two This year the girls’ team of eight players was 2004 and has proved very popular, PoloDuring a season that was very significantly tournaments. Of the matches – mainly ably led by Anastasiya Melnyk (Nugent) and with students reaching a high against our old rivals Kimbolton and impacted by some thoroughly uncharacteristically polo weather the Stowe Polo Club nonetheless the boys’ 1st and 2nd teams by Kirk Blair standard and grade in Shotokan Cokethorpe, but also a first-ever match maintained an upward trajectory gathering new (Bruce). against national champions Bloxham – we Karate, some carrying on outside players to the sport and fulfilling a high calibre of Captains for next year will be Paola Cymet have won four and lost four. For those fixture list against the country’s top polo schools. of Stowe, branching out and Monroy (Nugent) and Michael Hill (Grafton). who like statistics, we have downed 1,417 Regularly we were able to field four teams, studying other forms, setting up clays as against our opponents’ 1,402. probably one of only three schools in the country Colours were awarded to Anastasiya Melnyk, clubs of their own once licensed able to boast that depth of talent. In the two tournaments, we came 5th out Kirk Blair and Gareth Browne for their at the university they attend. of 14 schools at the Warwick Challenge Following an extended run of arena polo at involvement with and dedication to this Heathfield we were able to gain only one grass and 8th out of 17 schools in the Nationals. sport. Some who have enjoyed martial arts so much practice before our first game of the season against for their gap year have enrolled into training The Inter-House Badminton Tournaments We have a strong nucleus of shooters in a very powerful Marlborough College team. Missing camps where they train seven days a week. the Lower Sixth Form, including the several key players, we battled magnificently to lose were also played during the term. in the last seconds to a very unfortunate goal. This Stowe karate club is a friendly club which allows Plant brothers, Henry and William, Tom ter Old Stoics 76-73. And in the Father The Senior Girls’ Singles was won by loss was compounded by yet more poor weather students to mix and train alongside staff and Haar, Theo Vorotyntsev, William Hawke, and Sons, as it’s traditionally called, that robbed us of the chance to avenge our defeat Anastasiya Melnyk and Nugent also won the clubs outside Stowe, and confidence is achieved Edward Howes, Alex Levett-Scrivener George Constantinidi + father and and as such we lost out on the chance to play in Senior Girls’ Doubles. The Junior Girls’ offering opportunities to enter competitions and and Freddie Taylor. Emerging talent in the Felix Grant-Rennick + father jointly won the SUPA 4 Chukka finals and defend our title. Singles was won by Millie Bromley-Davenport demonstrations. The club covers a wide range of Lower School includes Cameron O’Brien, the Wyvill Cup. Nevertheless an invitation to play at Coworth Polo and Stanhope also won the Junior Girls’ training from basic fitness and self defence to Cameron Power, Jan Pultr, Theo Club in the prestigious Copenhagen Cup cheered We are blessed with a very supportive Doubles. For the Boys, the Senior Singles grading syllabus work which enables the students Shepherd-Smith, Henry Sylvester and the players up immensely. (and generous) travelling band of parents was won by Kirk Blair and Bruce also won to take different belts from 10th kyu (Blue Belt), William Motion. to whom we say a heartfelt thank you. And The club bids farewell to three talented Upper the Senior Doubles. The Junior Singles was upwards. Sixth Players; Max Dodd-Noble, Hector Worsley finally, another word of thanks goes to our won by Kyle Browne (Bruce) and the Junior In May, we had our annual House matches: and Oliver Clarke, all will be missed and yet in The club is run by Sensei Peter Calver, Black Belt two dedicated and experienced instructors, Doubles by Bruce. Cobham won the boys’ event and Nugent, Jamie Grayson, Issy Berner and Harry Allhusen we 5th Dan who has 30yrs experience behind him Messrs Clive Harris and John Grace. captained by Daisy Ussher, won the girls’. have a great deal of talent to offer for next year. Thank you to all the team members and and who is also a full time Shotokan instructor, Next year: Captain of Boys’ Shooting: Despite the weather, Stowe Polo has had another players who have contributed to the term’s and David Smith, Black Belt 1st Dan who is On Speech Day, we saw two competitions good year and we look forward to next season with Henry Plant. Captain of Girls’ Shooting: play. A special thanks to our own coaches Master in Charge of Karate and a member of staff. taking place side by side: the Stoics did the hope of less rain and more sun baked pitches. Penny Thompson. – Dr Panton and Mrs Browne. well to retain the Galetzine Cup, just holding off a spirited challenge from the Mr Peter Staples Mr Matthew Perriss Mrs Kim McMahon Mr David Smith

152 The Stoic The Stoic 153 Sport Sport Squash After a mixed season with a large number of cancellations, the Senior squash team recorded a number of victories – most notably against close rivals Oundle, Bedford and Berkhamsted.

Captain Jack Chaplin led from the front and showed great character in the face of some very challenging matches. Combined with Arthur Hobhouse at number two, the Senior squash team was well able to compete with other overall cup as well as the individual medley the School record. Ella Johnson, Elsa strong schools in our area. The other and the golden event breaststroke. In the Desmond, Paola Cymet-Monroy and Ellie Senior Boys: Won 7 Lost 3 major contributors to the Stowe Juniors, there were some great swimmers Pinnock coming an impressive 28th overall. Harry Warden (Cpt), Antonio Munoz- 1st V squash team were William de and a healthy injection of pace from Anna This was a fine achievement. In School Ballester, Nathan Charlesworth, Swimming Fox (Stanhope). Anna won the freestyle and matches to follow, the Senior Girls’ team Boinville, Nick Whitmore, Dominic Freedie Rowan-Hamilton, Adam Jones backstroke and her fantastic leg kick was a thrived and were able to beat some good Smith, Henry Wheeler, Harry Rees and This was always going to be a The Intermediate Boys’ races were very bit like an outboard motor on a speed boat. teams, for example Oundle, Marlborough, Hector Paschalides. hard year following the the exciting as the best swimmers in the Jemima Fitzjohn (Stanhope) was clever in Rugby and Cheltenham. At this stage in the U16 Boys: Won 8 Lost 2 School are all in this age group. Ivan winning the butterfly and having two year, as a team we had our tails up and Ivan Popov (Cpt), Will Chatamra, success of last year with James Popov (Grenville) proved to be too quick The Third Form team recorded an previous high podium places to take the were delighted with the Stowe relays Max Brunette-Jacobs, Seb Johnson, Blackham’s ‘dream team’. as he destroyed the field in the freestyle performances. I knew I would be very unbeaten season, winning all three of Junior Girls’ title. The relays were very George Lee, Theo Tserni, Guy Riches, event to pick up the Skidmore Cup. He exciting with Walpole winning at Senior content if we could win a medal this year, their matches. It has also been fantastic Unfortunately, we struggled in the new Max Marston added the butterfly cup as well and after our best ever haul of silverware last to see that our younger players are English Schools’ Division qualifier. All level with Grenville dominating at produced a good position in the teams in all age groups found the pace Intermediate level and Chandos running year. We swam incredibly well. The Senior already showing great potential for the individual medley to take the overall Junior Boys: Won 4 Lost 3 very frantic and we knew a lot of work away with the Junior House Cup. Temple Boys were able to get a bronze in the future. The Third Form team captain winnings in the category. The new rising was needed before our next encounter. At on average were the overall winners in the freestyle and the Junior Boys were able to Inigo Lendrum (Cpt), Oscar Williams, Max Ringer and second string James star in this age group is Will Chatamra least, there was time for us to regroup Boys’ championship. Nugent were the best do the same. Junior Girls went even better James Moor, Daniel Strutt, Greenley this term became two of the also a Grenville boy. He was superb in the with a silver and a bronze. Ivan Popov, Max and build for the long season ahead. A Girls’ House at Senior level breaking House Harrison Tucker, Will Thompson breaststroke pipping last year’s number youngest ever players to be selected for good home win against Rugby helped us records in both relays to lift the Bernadotte Marston, Will Chatamra and Theo Tserni one breaststroker, Guy Riches. Will has the Senior 1st V squash team. Both thanks to a clinical performance from our Cup. Stanhope were winners of the Junior were superbly quick in the freestyle but worked incredibly hard this year on his only gained a silver, however, not content Senior Girls: Won 5 Lost 2 players went on to win their senior U16 team led by Ivan Popov. Girls’ with thanks to Elsa Desmond technique in all strokes. Now it was time (Lyttelton) in the Intermediates. with that they won the medley in style Ella Johnson (Cpt), Ellie Pinnock, matches, as well as convincingly beating A New Year and House swimming was for him to shine and, on adrenalin from lifting the Clucus Cup for the fourth time. Gemma Chambers, Paola Cymet- The future looks bright for all swimmers any opponents they faced at Third Form upon us once again. Everything was in winning the breaststroke, he won the This was a great achievement. To me, the and we were able to go to the Monroy, Elsa Desmond level. There is no doubt that an exciting place and I knew this year that we would individual medley as well. It was a one sweetest success of the day came in a photo future awaits both Max and James in have a closer Inter-House competition horse race in the Junior Boys’ Buckinghamshire County Championships finish between Oundle and Stowe in the in Amersham. I was expecting an improved Junior Girls: Won 3 Lost 3 terms of their squash playing. than in recent years. In the Senior Boys’ it competition with Will Thompson Senior Girls freestyle relay. Stowe were able was going to be close with Harry Warden (Chandos) sailing through to victory result at this meet after the success of the to win on a visual finish to raise the Annie Danny Fusco-House (Cpt), Anna Fox, House swimming. I took a hand full of (Temple), Ed Pettifer (Walpole) and leaving everyone in his wake. In the Nichols Cup for the first time ever. The Cup Kelly-Jo Cecile-Pritchard, Jemima Squash colours were this year awarded swimmers to compete. Theo Tserni Antonio Munoz Ballester (Chatham) Senior Girls’ competition there were two was donated to the competition by the past to Jack Chaplin, Arthur Hobhouse and (Temple) was delighted with a bronze in Fitzjohn, Jemima Grant fighting it out. Harry was able to win the serious contenders, where before there Headmaster, Jeremy Nichols. William de Boinville. The squash the relay at intermediate and achieved a PB freestyle with the backstroke pushing was only one. Ellie Pinnock (Stanhope) in his butterfly ending up just outside the I would like to thank our captains, Harry department looks forward to another Antonio into second place. Antonio came would have to fight a lot harder this year medals in 4th place. Guy Riches was able to Warden and Ella Johnson, for their hard strong season next year, as the profile back to win the butterfly and Nathan with the addition of ‘The Latin Express’, get a hard fought silver and Ivan was able work and enthusiasm throughout the year. of the game has gone from strength to Charlesworth pushed Ed out of his Ella Johnson (Nugent). Ellie fought hard, to snatch gold in the freestyle. This was a Good Luck to both of you in your second strength in recent times – both on a golden moment in the breaststroke event. but Ella was too strong, winning the good day for Ivan especially being crowned year of office. Also many thanks to Matrons Ed now down and out. It came down to backstroke, butterfly and individual recreational and a competitive level. County Champion in freestyle. and parents who have supported the the individual medley which saw Harry medley. Ella was crowned Girls’ swimming team this year. burn off his Spanish rival to lift the Senior champion at Senior level. Elsa Desmond The Bath Cup saw the girls recording their Mr Roland Johnson Boys’ overall trophy. was able to win the Intermediate Girls’ fastest time in freestyle to date, breaking Mr Stewart Cowie

154 The Stoic The Stoic 155 Sport Gallery

Water Polo Senior Team beaten and only Alleyn’s School stood in our U15 Team way. We were able to put up a good fight but This has been another exciting year for our The team was a new batch of keen and eager fell short. However, getting the silver medal Senior boys team. Edward Pettifer (Walpole) players led by Seb Cecil (Chatham). Seb was was still a great achievement. took the helm from a very successful Sam able to put the team through some very hard Strutt, last year’s captain. This year was again Speech Day saw our magestic team win the water workouts and made sure that everyone to be the best performance by this fast, agile Shepperd-Barron Shield for the third year, was just as fit as himself. This was evident in squad of dedicated players. We drew a hard winning 7-5 in a close encounter. Sam Strutt the games played. The team will be a great line on fitness schedules which started back was back, together with Sam Morris and Josh team. Outstanding players were Jack Strong in October 2011. This was to prove we could Hunter and the three Old Stoics were able to (Grafton), Oscar Williams (Cobham) and handle everything which the opposition could Toby Pemberton (Cobham) and their captain, score some impressive goals against the Silviya Nenkova, Upper Sixth Idil Savaskan, Upper Sixth throw at us. School. I was delighted to have Harry Yates super Seb. These boys will all be over 6 ft and as strong as Chieftain tanks with an arsenal to Our opening match was against (Walpole 04) back to play and it was good that go with them. This team will now play in the Haberdashers’ Aske’s. We were able to push he had kept himself fit over the years. English Schools’ Competition next season them aside quite convincingly. Player of the Year has to go to Edward Pettifer and Good Luck to them. The good thing about our team is that all for a fantastic year. Mr Stewart Cowie players are skilled with the ball and have great I would like to thank Edward, our captain spatial awareness. The ball was able to be this year, for his dedication throughout. placed or passed onto another member of the Well done indeed. Senior Boys: Won 9 Lost 2 team at speed, giving the opposition no chance to steal the ball. Barney Curran Edward Pettifer (Cpt)*, Ollie Plunket*, U16 Team (Played as the Senior Team) (Grafton) was outstanding in goal and worked Barney Curran (Goalie)*, very well with Ollie Plunket (Grafton) in his The U16 team this year was led by Ivan Popov Rory Langman, James Drax, Harry new position as centre back this year. Ollie (Grenville). This was unexpected, but was due Pettifer, Guy Riches, Will Chatamra, was able to back pass the ball up the pool, to Oliver Constantine being out for the whole Max Brunette-Jacobs, Ivan Popov, turning a defensive play piece into an season, having suffered a serious rugby injury. Max Marston, Charlie Mason, Kalil Ali attacking opportunity. Ivan was able to inject speed into the already Colours =* nimble outfit. He was always the first person Harrow again fell short to us for the fourth U16 Boys: English Schools to get to the ball at the start of a game, which year in a row. Outstanding play from Guy Finalists School matches meant that we had a greater advantage. Riches (Temple) and Will Chatamra (played as the Senior Team) (Grenville) proved too confusing for the Will Chatamra (Grenville) and Guy Riches Ivan Popov (Cpt), Will Chatamra, Harrow defence and they were both able to (Temple) were both brilliant in the fetcher Guy Riches, Max Brunette-Jacobs, pelt in the goals. Cheltenham was able to give positions with Charlie Mason (Grafton) in Charlie Mason (Goalie), Max Marston, us a hard battle but fell short once again, the goals. Kurabe Makiura, Harry Pettifer, Kalil Ali along with Oundle. At the English Schools’ Competition, the team The highlights of this season came to us in was really quite good and got through the U15 Boys: Won 6 Lost 3 the English Schools’ Competition. We were qualifiers quite easily. The hardest task was in Seb Cecil (Cpt), Luke Reddyhough, able to get through to the finals thanks to the final where we were able to beat Warwick Toby Pemberton, Jack Strong, Cheltenham’s poor performance in the but lost to other teams, such as Charterhouse Leo Marmion (Shallow goalie), semi-finals but, in order to make sure we did where we should have won easily. This was a Barth Rougier (Deep goalie), Oscar not go out too early, we were going to have to bitter pill to swallow. We were able to achieve Williams, Harry Norris, Sam Riley, beat some good teams. Northampton, St a high standard once again. Well done Ivan Jack Edmonstone, James Moor Paul’s, Bradford and Trinity Carlisle were all Popov for stepping in.

Emily Beatty, Upper Sixth

156 The Stoic The Stoic 157

New New Stowe School 2011/2012 Stowe the opening of Centre Stowe celebrates first-class facility Equestrian Equestrian

Picnic for two thousand Picnic for two thousand on the South Front Jubilee Jubilee Celebrations A Level llence Exce Stoics achieve best-ever results in the Summer exams

Stowe School 2011/2012 1280 818000 ) 0 ( Christopher Honeyman Brown, Honeyman Brown, Christopher FCA (Chairman) FRICSJohn R C Arkwright, A Bewes, BA, FCA Jonathan M Brunskill, BSc, MRICSMs Julie C Admiral Sir James Burnell- MA CBE, Nugent, KCB, David W Cheyne Arch, Juliet Colman, BA, Dip RIBA, SCA BA, Simon C Creedy Smith, Chairman) (Vice ACA M Fletcher, The Revd Jonathan J MA M Ivo H B Forde (Chairman OS Committee) BSc, Sarah J Gurr, Professor ARCS, DIC PhD, MA Mrs Joanne E Hastie-Smith David Hudson, MA (Cantab) MA Robert A Lankester, Lord Magan of Castletown Lady Stringer BA, MIMC Christopher J Tate, MA Mrs Susan M van der Veen, Dip Ed (Oxon), MA (Warwick), BA, MSc Michael B M Porter, (Secretary to the Governors) * Old Stoic Correct as of 1st September 2012 as of 1st September Correct * * * * * * * * Governing Body Registered Charity No. 310639 CharityRegistered No. School Stowe Stowe Buckingham MK18 5EH United Kingdom +44 Telephone: e-mail: [email protected] www stowe.co.uk