THE WILLIAMSONIAN ○ 2019-20 FROM THE HEADTEACHER FOREWORD he American novelist Stephen Chbosky said, ‘It’s T strange the times that people chose to be generous.’ It is a nice depiction of school life over the last few months. The academic year 2019-20 has been unlike any other and I fervently hope that it will be very different from any others to come. This is my 19th year at the school, my 9th as head and it has certainly been one that I never anticipated and would never wish to repeat.

We progressed pretty normally up until February. Some of the usual aspects of school life are reflected in this magazine, with trips, visits, House Events, fixtures and the like. We had great hopes for Year 11 and 13 who were making good progress and we were gradually developing our knowledge of some new technologies, like the Google Classroom. Fast forward on to June 15th as I am writing this and we have the highest number of pupils on site today since March 20th. A whopping 129 of our school role of 1365. We are delivering hundreds of Google Classroom lessons a week with a growing selection of live online lessons too. We would normally be looking forward to the end of public exams in a week or so, followed by year 6 induction and then Founder’s Day, Prize Giving and the end of term. Not this year. However, what will stick with me the most, when I reflect back on this year is the generosity of spirit that has been displayed through the school. From the small, but important things, like pupil politeness - thanking you for your comments on their work, to bigger things such as every member of the school community going out of their way to support each other, get the things done that need to be done and to stay true to the things that we value as a school. I have shared this with the staff, but it is entirely appropriate that I share it with the whole school community. As we have done our best to deal with this crisis, on our own level, I am enormously proud and hugely grateful for the pupils, parents and our staff in all positions who have enabled us to do so in the best possible way. Their collective generosity, with their time and energy has been invaluable.

02 CONTENTS

Old Williamsonians 44 06 News from the OWs @The Math Events from around the school

14 Telling Stories World Book Day 18 Promoting reading at the Math Visit to Cambridge 19 To cross the Mathematical Bridge Math School Art and Photography 20 Stunnig GCSE and A level work

Character Building 27 A new award comes to the Math

House Reports of Honour Lap 28 Reports from all the Houses Sports Reports 46 36 From our curtailed programme Isle of Wight Visit 39 Not for the faint-hearted! Visit to Auschwitz 40 Lessons learnt from history

Rochester Remembers D of E 43 Holocaust memorial service Making Drama... 48 52 This year’s productions Hospital Habadashery 54 This season’s must-have gowns 50 Music Notes

55 A chorus of approval Erasmus Project Erasmus

The Williamsonian 2019 - 20 Editor Mr C Loizou Contributions by Mr K Kitsell, Mr S Marsden.

038 STAFF NOTES Headteacher: Mr E. Hodges Mr A. Worthy (Physics) Deputy Headteacher: Mr C. Morris Mr M. Barley (Chemistry) Chairman of Governors: Mr S. Brightman Miss A. Wallace (Biology) Spanish: Mrs D. Bowes-Read Assistant Headteachers: Technology: Mr D. Robson Dr I. Karam Mrs H. Dennis Heads of House: Mrs E. Cook Bridge: Mr S. J. Marsden Mr K. J. Bailey Castle: Mr C. Alderman Gordon: Mr C. Arnold Head of Lower School: Pitt: Mr J. C. Townsend Mrs G. Manchaud Green River: Miss C. Hindson Deputy Heads of Lower School: Thetford: Miss J. Miller Mrs R. Breach Tower: Mr S. J. Sharp Miss K. Cook Miss N. Keyes PA to the Headteacher: Pastoral Support Officer: Mrs J. Martin Mrs S. Huxted PA to the Deputy Headtecher: Head of Middle School: Mrs C. Pullies Mr C. Heather Deputy Heads of Middle School: Office Manager: Mr B. Ward & Mr D. Coate Mrs N. O’Boyle Pastoral Support Assistant: Mrs K. Ross Exam Administrator: Mrs N. Parham Head of Sixth Form: Mr K. J. Bailey Deputy Heads of Sixth Form: Mr A. Milne & Mr C. Loizou 6th Form Student Services: Mrs F. Jennings

Heads of Department: Art: Mr E. Stewart & Mrs. E. Morton Classics: Miss S. Harrison Drama: Mrs J. Shand Economics: Mrs R. Breach English: Mrs L. Metsaranta French: Mrs A. Gibson Geography: Mrs E. Cullis History: Mr C. Nicholson Computing: Mr C. Loizou Life Skills: Mrs L. Humphries Mathematics: Mr N. Daniels Music: Mrs F. Graham Politics: Dr A. Bidmead Physical Education: Mr S. Downes Psychology: Mrs J. Milliner Science:

04 SCHOOL NOTES

School Captain: M. Robinson Deputy School Captains: K. Banks, J. Sheather

Senior Prefects: A. Aaditya, D. Johnson, J. Pearson, N. Rebelo, O. Webb, R. Wright

General Prefects (Dec ‘19): T. Adayemi, C. Adewumi, F. Adeyemi, H. Ahmad, M. Archer, E. Awaritefe, E. Bacon, P. Bennett, M. Bhat, R. Bryant, S. Burge, B. Carney, H. Clarkson, J. Delyfer, M. Dhillon, M. Fankah, L. Fowle, E. Lakanu, M. Mehta, E. Nye, A. Olayinka, O. Reeves, S. Roarty, J. Saunders, J. Udonwa, R. Viding, B. Webber, F. Wood, A. Yesilmen

(Jun ‘20) I. Armstrong, K. Bourner, A. Ellerington, C. Evans, J. Hofford, T. King, G. Koo, F. Phillips, M. Sibichan, V. Vijayamohan

The Watts Exhibition: At the start of this academic year, we saw six students begin their journey at Oxford and Cambridge. Pupils who attend Oxbridge receive the Watts Exhibition Prize. Their names are engraved onto the board in the hall. Below is a list of the recipients:

John Goh (Thetford) - Oriel College, University of Oxford - English Language and Literature Kiokee Goh (Thetford) - Oriel College, University of Oxford - Classics Adam Lewis (Bridge) - Emmanuel College, University of Cambridge - Economics Vanessa McLoughlin (Castle) - Pembroke College, University of Oxford - Medicine Alexander Orlov-Holmes (Castle) - Wadham College, University of Oxford - Classics Tyler Rodberg (River) - Worcester College, University of Oxford - Engineering 05 OLD WILLIAMSONIANS

OW OFFICERS & XI also pushing for Kent League status.

COMMITTEE MEMBERS Our sole team, lead for most of the season by David Bage, played in KRCL Championship PRESIDENT...... MR E HODGES East where they finished last. That said, we had CHAIRMAN...... IAN McLEOD a number of tightly fought matches, four or five VICE-CHAIRMAN...... JEFF DOUST should have gone in our favour. We used 25 IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIRMAN...... different players during the season which sounds ...... DAVID ROUTLEDGE a lot for one team but consistent availability was TREASURER...... GEOFFREY LEE yet again an issue. Away from the league we SECRETARY & ASSISTANT TREASURER...... played and won two exciting friendly matches ...... JAMES BARNEY against The Mote and Upchurch, where Neil GOVERNORS’ REPRESENTATIVE...... Fanthome-Hodgson proudly played alongside two ...... CHRIS HALLS of his sons...... LIZ TYRRELL Richard Dalton, Luke Butcher, David Bage and SCHOOL LIAISON OFFICER...... Ayodeji Oyesola were the mainstays of the batting ...... SAM PEPPER while David Bage, Naveed Bhatti and Chris Apps BAR SECRETARY...... CHRIS HALLS took most wickets. RMSA REP...... STEVE GODDARD 200 CLUB ADMINISTRATOR...JAMES BARNEY Colts: COMMITTEE MEMBERS...... CALLUM BOWIE For the third year in a row we didn’t field an U17 ...... STEVE GODDARD, RAY BOAST, side. For the first time since the inception of Colts ...... DANIEL ROUTLEDGE, VIKKI KING, league cricket we had no U13 team. The U15s ...... KIERAN KITSELL, JAMES FRY finished 8th but could have been higher but for some crucial player absences. They reached OW CRICKET CLUB the Cup Semi-final. Ayodeji Oyesola played just 7 games scoring 273 runs @ 136.50 including 4 SEASON 2019-20 x 50no retirements and a 41no. He was named REPORT OWCC Colt of the Year. Due to the age split and exam pressure, there will SENIORS be no Colts teams at all in 2020. he season was a very enjoyable one but 2019 CELEBRATION EVENING T following on from 2018-19, it was also a very sad one as the Club resigned a team from league For the first time ever, the Club held a joint Colt cricket for the second year in a row. To say that the and Senior Celebration Evening. On an enjoyable past two seasons have been the “perfect storm” evening of multiple awards and a Fish and Chip would be an understatement. A combination of top takeaway, the award winners were as follows: players emigrating, a number of serious and other U15s injuries, players moving away from Kent, changes Player’s Player of the Year - Ayodeji Oyesola to family circumstances and work, university calls, Manager’s Award - Ellis Adams-Freeman defections to competing clubs and a poor take up from our Colts on reaching Year 11 all combined Best Bowling Performance - Daniel Bennett to a fall of status for the Club. To think that a mere Best Batting Performance - Claude Walduck three years ago the 1st XI just missed out on Best Fielding Performance - Noah Saunders promotion to Kent League Division 3 with the 2nd

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Best All-Rounder - Reece Coulbert 2nd XV & Youth The Bob Brooks Trophy for Colt of the Year - Activity in both 2nd XV and the youth section both Ayodeji Oyesola ceased this season due to poor turn out. Plans will Seniors be put in place over the summer to push the 2nd XV for years to come. Chairman’s Award - Chris Halls If you are interested in getting back into Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year - Ayodeji Oyesola please contact Dan Routledge dr.outledge@ Duck Award - Matt Clark me.com 07738 242474 Player of the Year - Dicky Dalton Dan Routledge

THE FUTURE OW HOCKEY CLUB For the time being, the Club will take stock and play a number of Sunday friendlies with an emphasis SEASON 2019-20 on highly social but competitive cricket. Anyone he 2019-20 season was OWHC’s 75th season interested in taking part should contact Chris Halls T and what a season it eventually turned out to be. on 07768 558656 / chris.halls@btopenworld. In adult hockey, we ran two ladies and five men’s com or speak to the School PE Department. teams on a Saturday. Before lockdown hit in March, the ladies and men’s firsts, seconds and OW RUGBY CLUB thirds all had one league game left to play. The men’s fourths and fifths had completed their SEASON 2019-20 league programme. We had to wait to see how 1st XV England Hockey were going to determine the aving finished the 2018-19 season poorly end of the season. Would they declare it null and H but surviving in London South East 3 the void? Would they declare positions at lockdown new season started in much of the same manner. as final positions? Would they do something else? Unavailability and injury has plagued the season The wait was particularly anxious for the men’s for players, coaches and physios leaving the old firsts and seconds and the ladies seconds, as boys often short of key roles on match days. Credit each team was in the hunt for league titles and and mentions must go to Callum Bowie who whilst promotions. The men’s seconds had already injured and unable to play, took on multiple roles mathematically won their league, so would have throughout the season both midweek and on a been harshly treated if the season was declared Saturday. The team managed to fulfill all fixtures, null and void. Fortunately however, the news this is often not achieved by other teams in a came through that league positions would be similar position to us. The season ended early determined by a mixture of position at lockdown with the last game played on 29th of February. 18 being the final position, or by an average points Games 18 loses. The season has been cut short per game calculation. This meant league titles due to the COVID-19 outbreak. The RFU elected for the men’s firsts and seconds and 2nd place to formulate the end of season results which and promotion for the ladies seconds. This was formally relegated the 1st XV back to Kent 1 after the first time in our history that we had celebrated 3 years in London South East 3. titles for our top two men’s sides in the same season and the first time that three of our teams gained promotion in the same season.

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The final positions for all seven adult sides were before them. Another James (Gomme), also as follows: naturally ex-Pitt, led the side, stepping in for the Ladies injured Marc King for the season. Again, this side has the capability to go even further next season. 1st team – 9th of 12 Can they make it back-to-back promotions? Never in any danger of relegation, but never in 3rd team – 5th of 12. a position to challenge for promotion either, the ladies’ 1st team had a better first half of the As indicated below, this will be our development season than second half, their last 10 games side and most of the team will be the same next gaining just 6 points, when their first 8 games got season, having a year of experience at this level. them 14. However, the younger players now have The schoolboys are learning quickly; they won an extra year of experience to work with at this their final 3 games of the season to rise up to 5th level and the side will look to improve when 2020- in the league. If the likes of Taylor and Brandon 21 season starts. Chard, Ross Cheese, Will Hick, Josh Bridger, to name but a few continue their learning curve, then 2nd team – 2nd of 12 and promoted. they may be knocking on the door of the 2nd team 5 straight wins, then 3 straight defeats started the before next season is out. season, leaving the Ladies’ 2nd team in mid table 4th team – 5th of 10. in November. They then embarked on an 8-game winning streak to pull them up to 2nd, before losing Only 4 defeats in the season, but too many draws to the eventual league winners. A crucial away was the story for the 4th team. Often subject to draw was secured against their main rivals for 2nd availability in the teams above them, the 4s will spot and there they remained to get promotion look to convert those draws into wins, with a little at the first time of asking. Congratulations ona more experience in their ranks in the coming terrific season! season. Men 5th team – 4th of 10. 1st team – 1st of 12 and promoted. Yet just 4 points away from promotion. Another side that is subject to availabilities, with the A side that can now count themselves among additional issues of having either really early, or the best that the club has produced secured the really late start times, the 5’s had some heavy Kent Sussex title and promotion. This side play wins and some heavy losses, dependent on all of some seriously good hockey and are a young side these factors. Special mention to Dave Routledge, that could go on to even greater achievements. who plays in the 5s and has just completed his Undoubtedly, the highlights of the season were 49th season of hockey for OWHC. Dave will a 5-2 home win and a 6-0 away win against be dusting off his sticks in 2020-21 to get to his Holcombe 1A’s in the local derby. Predominantly Golden Jubilee. Congratulations Dave! still a team of ex-pupils, their ranks have been bolstered by player coach Harry Roberts who A season befitting the celebration of our 75th. scored 50+ league goals. James Pentecost (ex- It was unfortunate that the lockdown has meant Pitt, naturally) captained the side to the title, a our annual dinner has been postponed and we culmination of 5+ years work on building this side have not been able to come together as a club to get to where they are now. and celebrate our success, but this will come and 2nd team – 1st of 12 and promoted. Just 2 points the celebrations will be made. We are making dropped all season and a plus 100 goal difference. preparations for the coming season already. Our men’s 1s, while they remain a squad of An incredible season for the 2s who swept all predominantly ex-pupils, have recruited well. Our

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men’s 3s will become a development side, which Neil Thompson - (07957734683/neilthompson8@ will bring through the talented schoolboys playing gmail.com) for the club. We have the numbers to bring back a Jeff Doust - (07500257418/jeffdoust@hotmail. 6th team in 2020-21. co.uk) We grow at a time where we have seen many Club Mail - [email protected] hockey clubs merge or drop teams. We are very We are always looking for players in our adult lucky to be attached to the school and we are sides. We play every Saturday from September benefitting from their strong hockey programme through to Easter, running six men’s and two and the schoolboys this produces. Our junior ladies sides. Training takes place Tuesday and programme is designed to bring all our junior Wednesday evenings throughout this time. players through to our adult teams from the age of 13 and to reach their potential whenever they can. The development team in the men’s set up is IN MEMORIAM the start of this and this will soon be replicated in Terry Doust (1941 - 2019) the ladies, as we are close to forming a 3rd team Terry Doust was born in Melbourne, Australia. In for them. The club provides a friendly, vibrant and 1946, his homesick parents came back to the UK social atmosphere for the whole family, so why and Terry went to Glencoe Road Primary School, not come and visit us at the school and see for before attending The Math from 1952-1959. Terry yourself? Please see below for all our information. was a natural sportsman and played cricket and hockey for the school 1st teams, earning Full Information Colours in both and playing for Kent schoolboys Thanks to generous sponsorship, we provide at cricket. FREE hockey for anyone under 16 (Years 1 to It is fair to say that sport at The Math had a huge 11 inclusive). You are welcome to turn up to our influence on the rest of Terry’s life. He continued Sunday Junior Hockey. Bring friends and siblings playing Cricket for Frindsbury CC through to too! 1974. Frindsbury were a strong club side and · Junior Hockey training - Sunday mornings, enjoyed notable successes throughout Terry’s 10am-1130am, from 8th September onwards. time there. Terry switched his summer sport to · Age Groups are U8’s, U10’s, U12’s and U14’s/ golf and played at Gillingham Golf Club from 1976 U16’s. In addition, games and tournaments until his passing. Going as low as a 7 handicap, organised with other local clubs throughout the Terry remained a formidable opponent and great season. We aim to operate U8’s and U10’s mixed, teammate for golf and this continued into his later with U12 age groups and above, split between years, even occasionally being able to shoot his boys and girls. age in his 70’s. · All hockey is free for Under 16’s (Year 11 and Of course though, it is for his hockey exploits below) at OWHC. that Terry will best be remembered for by Old Williamsonians. He played for the OW 1st team · Equipment provided and sticks available to from 1959 through to 1989, 30 consecutive borrow. seasons, unrivalled in longevity and consistency · All youth team coaches are DBS checked and by anyone before or since. OW’s rose to be one have completed England Hockey Safe Guarding of the leading sides in the county and Terry was at courses. · Close links with SJWMS · Pathway to the heart of this. Perhaps the best tribute to Terry Adult Hockey (6 men’s and 2 ladies teams) and his contribution to Old Williamsonians HC is If you are interested, please contact summed up by the following, from Ian Pentecost,

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sent when Terry passed away: Founder’s Day and school concerts. As a lasting “I was fortunate enough to start my first eleven legacy, Old Williamsonians HC will be awarding days alongside the great Terry Doust. At his the Terry Doust Trophy to the player of the season age then he should have been at the end of his from 2020. first team days, but such was his skill, speed Alan Hall (1927 - 2020) and commitment we played 10 years together; Alan Hall was Headmaster of The Math School he was a star player in a very good team even from 1971 to his retirement in 1989. Even after towards the end of that period. Those were the his retirement, he still took an interest in the days of grass pitches and heavy wooden sticks, development of the school and progress of its but Terry could stop and control immediately pupils. any pass that arrived somewhere near him, no It was at King’s College, London where Alan met matter how fast it came or how much it kicked his future wife Pamela. Settling in Beckenham to off the surface. He regularly produced magic raise their family of four children – Jane, Penny, moments to change the course of matches. No Sarah and Cathy. He always maintained that the game was lost until the final whistle when you four girls at home balanced out all the boys he had Terry Doust, and you might feel you’d won taught! Alan and Pamela were married for forty- anyway after his good-humoured post-match five years until Pamela sadly passed away. discussions with the umpires. As well as a brilliant Alan always believed in contributing to his local player, he was fearless and fiercely competitive, community. He was a keen and active member but always a gentleman and an ambassador for of the Rochester Rotary Club and had been a the club in the bar after the game. He was a fine steward at Rochester Cathedral. He was an also cricketer too. Several years ago, when Frindsbury an active member of Headrest – an association for were in the South Thames League, their ageing retired Headteachers, and enjoyed many holidays President told me that Terry was the best cover and social occasions with his close friend Marilyn. fielder he had ever seen. ‘T’ gave me nothing but encouragement and support in my early days, He will be sadly missed by all those whose lives and he did the same for countless others, whether he touched. as a player, indoor manager, first team manager, Trevor Jordan (1939 - 2019) ladies’ coach or supporter. He was a great wit and Trevor was born on 23rd January 1939 to Thomas mickey-taker too, as anyone will know who spent Jordan (himself an OW) and Pat, in Kowloon, more than a few minutes with him in the bar! For Hong Kong. Thomas was a chief inspector of me, the club will not be the same without him. HM Dockyards. During the war years Trevor had Terry was an incredibly important person in the an exotic childhood living in, variously, Australia, history of our club, and we would not be where we India and South Africa. The Jordans relocated to are now if he had, as he could easily have done, Rochester post-war, but Thomas died tragically left to play for any of the top clubs in the country. young. Trevor went to St Peter’s and passed his I wish my friend, with whom I enjoyed so much 11+ to go The Math where he was a member of fun and laughter, all the peace in the world. It is a Bridge House. Trevor was always very proud of very sad day.” his association with Sir Joseph’s. In retirement, Terry returned to The Math and Trevor left The Math after his ‘O’ Levels and had had stints as Clerk to the Governors and later, various jobs before starting work for Blue Circle in as Clerk to the Charitable Trustees of the school. 1960 at their site in Snodland. It was the beginning He and Brenda continued to support all the Old of more than 40 year’s employment in different Williamsonian functions and enjoyed attending iterations. Trevor retired in 2003 at the Omya

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UK plant in Swanscombe where he was deputy evenings. He eventually became Chairman of the manager. Trevor’s time in the cement industry OW Club in 1988. was characterised by diligence and hard work. I When his daughter, Davina, was born in 1990, and cannot remember him ever having a day off. his son, Adam, followed 20 months later, David Trevor’s retirement was well earned and he spent took a step back from committee duties. Having his time around his beloved house, pottering already been a governor at his children’s infant and watching the Arsenal. Trevor married Mary and junior schools, his experience was invaluable (former Miss Gillingham FC) in 1966 and they when he became a governor at the Math. He enjoyed cruising and keeping actively retired. served the governing body well, being one of the Trevor had two children: Guy and Anne-Marie. most punctual attendees (to give him more time Guy followed Trevor to The Math. And Bridge to network), and always coming equipped with a House, of which he was House Captain. Trevor hard copy of the agenda, which came in useful was very proud that Guy studied at St Catherine’s whenever there was a glitch in the IT system. College, Oxford, while Anne-Marie achieved a first He also joined the RMSA, where he was known at Hull University. for his contribution at social functions. Trevor was proud of his association with the hockey In 2010, he was diagnosed with kidney disease club, representing it at all levels with distinction but was able to continue as a governor, and and serving on the committee. I remember became Master of the Old Williamsonian Lodge Monday nights when he would return home with a in 2014. After a couple of brief spells in hospital in bag of balls to paint for the following Saturday. He May and June 2019, he was well enough to attend made life-long friends and it was gratifying to see Founder’s Day in July. Sadly, he passed away at so many at his funeral in December. home three days later, on 9th July 2019. Trevor was a good man. Honest, loyal and a man He leaves behind his much-loved family, as well of integrity. He is sorely missed, but remembered as a huge collection of SJWMS memorabilia. fondly. Janice Lenton (1933 -2020) David Kesby (1944 - 2019) The Lenton family is saddened to inform readers David attended The Math School from 1954- that Janice Margaret Lenton, née Woods, passed 1960, having passed his 11+ a year early. The away in her sleep on the morning of Sunday inspirational teachers he met during his time 28th June 2020 at Lent Rise House, Burnham, at the school gave him a life-long passion for Buckinghamshire, where she had been living for reading, with a particular love of Dickens and the last five years. Janice was born on the 6th Shakespeare. of August 1933, in Sevenoaks, Kent, and leaves He joined the Ordnance Survey very soon after her four sons, Jonathan, Simon, Andrew and leaving school, and continued there for over 46 Matthew, all of whom are Old Williamsonians. years until his retirement. As a cartographic Their father is John Lenton a past Chairman of surveyor, his proudest work was putting the the club, who died in 2010. Olympic Park on the map ready for 2012. Janice has her own long association with The He met his wife, Marina, locally and they married Math School, where she worked as a school ad- in 1978. As their first-born child didn’t arrive until ministrator for over twenty years, having herself 12 years later, and with Marina fully occupied as attended Rochester Grammar School for Girls. a teacher at Balfour Junior School, David joined Ron Nicholas (1933 -2020) the OW committee and was one of the Trustees of Ron Nicholas (Math School: 1944-51) was born in the ‘200 Club’, organising social events and jazz Chatham in 1933, and died in Basildon Hospital

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Essex aged 86. Top of the class through Glencoe Road Primary Fred Osenton School, he then joined The Math and had a We have heard of the recent death of Fred successful school career, including being chess Osenton (Math School: 1953-60) who ran his own champion one year. After High School Certificate insurance broking business in Rochester for many (now called A Levels) he passed the Civil Service years. Executive exam. National Service came next Pauline Pilcher (1947 -2020) and he gained commission in the RAF following Pauline was born in Bolton, Lancashire and flying training in Canada. Ron then joined the moved down to Kent in her primary school Inland Revenue and took an external degree in years. Following grammar school, where she law (LLB) at London University. This led to him demonstrated an aptitude for science, she started moving back to Kent where he took a number of work at Burroughs Wellcome in Dartford as an positions as solicitor to the Council at Gillingham, analytical chemist. Here she met her husband Ashford and finally Rochester-upon-Medway, Brian, himself an ex-Math School boy, and they where he finished as Principal Law Officer based married in 1972. Following the birth of daughter in the Strood offices. Helen in 1976, Pauline was a stay-at-home He took early retirement in 1984 following mum until 1987, when she was successful in her reorganisation of the local councils. In retirement application for the post of Lab. Technician at the he spent a year as President of Rotary, played Math. She was delighted to be back in the world golf at Gillingham and Cobham, where he had his of science again. only hole-in-one. His great passion was music; he Throughout her time at the Math, Pauline played piano and clarinet, though not at the same developed an interest in IT and ultimately pursued time! this route, taking on the role of SIMS System With his wife Joan, he moved to Portugal for six Manager. Her determination and attention to years, playing golf and learning Portuguese and detail, as well as perseverance when faced with a leading a great social life with other ex-pats. On problem, meant that this was a role she excelled returning to the UK in 1994, he and Joan settled in and there was rarely a systems related problem in Essex where Joan died in 2008. Since then that she couldn’t solve. Ron enjoyed watching cricket and rugby, and The friendships made at the Math and her love was a regular at the OW Veterans Lunch with his of the work she did encouraged Pauline to brother Frank and many friends. carry on working past retirement age and these Brian Nicholson (1936 - 2019) friendships supported her through the loss of Brian Nicholson passed way suddenly on 8th her beloved Brian to Mesothelioma in 2006. She November 2019 aged 83 having suffered a heart eventually made the decision to stop working 6 attack. years ago, when the prospect of more time with He played Rugby at School on the left wing with granddaughter Sophie tempted her away. Dave Campbell in the highly successful 1953/54 Following retirement, Pauline kept in touch with 1st XV. many Math School friends, attending Founder’s He was co-holder of the District U16 100yds Days, Carol Services etc, still thinking of herself record of 10.6secs. as part of the team. She fell in love with cruising He was at Bristol University with Dave Campbell and enjoyed many an adventure with good friend where he played Soccer as he was told ‘if you are Ann Madden, another ex-Math School employee. not Welsh, don’t bother about rugby!’ Pauline leaves behind daughter Helen, son-in-law

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Chris, and the apple of her eye, granddaughter Whilst at school Brian earned his sporting Sophie, who misses her immensely. We are truly colours (a blue) in football, cricket and hockey. grateful for the happy memories and friendships He continued to play football and cricket after he the Math gave her and for all the messages and left school for club teams. He continued playing tributes we have received from staff and pupils cricket into his 50’s. past and present. He met his wife, Jean (Costen) in the fifties and Roger Reeves (d. 2020) they married in 1958. Jean passed away at a very Roger, better known as Charles, died in a nursing young age in 1983. home in Australia on 19th February after suffering When Brian left school, he joined the RAF, this from pancreatic cancer diagnosed more than a was his dream, unfortunately his tenure in the year ago when he was last in England. RAF did not last as long as he would have liked, Charles was member number five, joining the he was diagnosed with inner ear medical issue Castle Club in 1973. For many years he spent which grounded him. the winter in Australia and returned to his Shorne Brian then worked in insurance for the rest of his home for the summer months during which he life. He started at Union Insurance in Rochester. was a frequent visitor to the Club, attending Over his career Brian also worked in Maidstone, dinners and many Tuesday lunchtimes with Croydon and his last position at Lloyd’s of London snooker afterwards. Indeed he possessed an based in Chatham. He took early retirement from unusual snooker cue. He was aged 84 and had Lloyds of London in his late fifties and enjoyed two sons and two daughters. He was divorced, many years of retirement. but his wife survives him together with a long-term Brian loved to watch cricket and was a long-time partner in Australia but originally from Shorne. He supporter of Kent County Cricket Club. A member was the son of a Chatham jeweller who carried on of Kent County Cricket Supporters Club, he the family business from its several branches in joined in 1977 (as Member No.38), was elected Kent and along the South Coast until his move to to the committee in 1987 and was Chairman from his farm in Australia. He retained a jeweller’s shop 1993 to 2000. He was asked by the committee in Sidmouth run by a tenant. to become President in 2010 and served for five Brian Rudd (1932 - 2020) years. Brian Rudd, 88, died Sunday 24th May 2020 at Brian and his wife Jean took up amateur Medway Maritime Hospital following a long illness. dramatics in the 1950’s, they both acted in plays He leaves his sons Mark and Paul, his sister and musicals with the Irene Weller Players up Rosemary, brother Ian their partners, his nieces, until the mid 1970’s. Jean was an accomplished nephews and his many close friends. singer and was part of a female trio who even Born and raised in Baker Street Rochester, the appeared on TV singing. son of William (Bill) and Rosemary (Rose), he was Chris White a lifelong resident or the Medway Towns and a Chris White’s death was reported by Stephen proud Man of Kent. Rayner on 22nd December 2019. He was School Brian grew up in Rochester and lived through Captain 1973-74. the Second World War. After the Battle of Britain, Brian was evacuated to Worcester to live with friends of his father Violet and George and their son Phillip (Phil). Brian remained friends with Phil and his wife Ethel until his death.

13 @Maththe biology in good health

ue to unforeseen circumstances, many of D the Biology events have been cancelled this year however there still has been significant occasions in the department. Many trips and events haven’t been able to go ahead this year due to the pandemic however we will hopefully be able to continue events next year and regardless the Biology department have still had a great year!

The results achieved by both GCSE and A level students last August were fantastic with many Biology grades at 7-9 and A*/A correspondingly. Along with these fantastic results, the school also had successful medical applicants to top universities such as the University of Oxford, East Anglia, Imperial and Bristol. Many other students also successfully branched off into studies such as biomedicine and engineering with the outstanding grades they achieved. Last year eight students students attending. Many Biology Prefects have went on to study medicine at university and two reported to have up to three students to mentor onto veterinary studies. each lunchtime demonstrating how helpful these sessions were for younger students and we will Furthermore, with the appointment of new Biology surely continue to run these mentoring sessions Prefects, support for younger years has been in upcoming years. offered conducted and led by the Subject Prefects themselves. Every Wednesday lunchtime younger This year for the first time the Biology department students had the opportunity to come along to took their Year 13 students to Wildwood to carry this club to obtain additional guidance by older out sampling of different ecosystems, this is years which proved to be successful with many essential to pass the practical endorsement for A-Level Biology. The students, as ever, were a credit to the school. After we had completed the field work, we got to have a look around the zoo, They also took their annual trip to the Royal Institute of Science in London, a fascinating building which is steeped in historic scientific discoveries. Here, the students get to extract and sequence a section of their own DNA.

Manteer Dhillon 12Pitt General Prefect

14 Political visits

he Math has been lucky enough to welcome in ministerial positions must publicly support all T a number of politicians to the school over decisions made by the Executive. the past year, offering insights into the UK In March, Vince Maple, Leader of Medway political system, from a local to ministerial Labour and Councillor for Chatham Central level, as well as allowing students to develop Ward conducted a discussion session with an understanding of various party policies. Year 12 Politics Students. Discussion ensued on subjects such as the then ongoing Labour Kelly Tolhurst, MP for Rochester and Strood, Leadership election to the developing COVID-19 and at the time of writing, Under-Secretary of Pandemic. However, perhaps the main factor State for transport visited The Math in November that differentiated Mr Maple’s discussion from 2019. As the Conservative candidate for the area, previous visits was the clear recognition and much of Ms Tolhurst’s discussions focused on the awareness of regional concerns. The visit itself upcoming party manifesto, and particularly the raised a series of points relating to the clear matter of Brexit. Ms Tolhurst went on to discuss issues facing the Medway Towns, especially with the wider aspects of political life. regard to homelessness and the closure of retail units in the vicinity of Mr Maple’s ward. More recently, pupils welcomed Stuart Jeffery, the Green Party’s Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for the Maidstone and the Weald Constituency. Mr Jeffery was able to offer a unique interpretation of the political world based on how smaller parties operate with regard to gathering support and spreading influence without the “traditional” platform of parliamentary presence - highlighting the role of social media, as well as cooperation with larger parties. Discussions were largely based on the concerns of global warming and spiralling air pollution that are becoming increasingly prevalent.

Ryan Donnellon 12River Following Ms Tolhurst’s visit, the school welcomed Politics Prefect the Member for North East Somerset Jacob Rees-Mogg (pictured above), who has served as Leader of the House of Commons since July 2019. Mr Rees-Mogg was able to give students some insight into life for an MP who is part of the cabinet. Of particular interest in the talk he gave was the role of collective responsibility, a constitutional convention which states that those

15 @Maththe chemistry prefects provide ideal solution

espite this year being cut short, the together and with our classmates. We found it D Chemistry department has seen many very beneficial as it was a great opportunity to great achievements from its students. The 2019 learn teamwork and leadership skills, as well as Summer results were the highest ever, with an develop our knowledge of Chemistry as a whole. amazing 58% of students achieving a grade A/A*. In addition to the Cambridge Challenge, we also The Chemistry Cambridge Challenge also had directed our focus towards tutoring Year 8 students impressive results, with two students achieving who were struggling in Chemistry. Every Tuesday Gold awards. lunchtime, we were given the opportunity to work with a student. Many of them were shy, so by us This year’s students have been working hard to being able to partner up with the same pupil every follow suit of last year, with the Chemistry Prefects week, we were able to get to know them better setting up their own revision club in preparation for and make them feel more comfortable, especially the Cambridge Challenge. This was completely when it came to asking questions, which we feel organized by us Prefects; we printed past papers benefitted them greatly. and taught ourselves the content, so that we could then tutor our fellow Chemistry students. Despite the fact we were unable to take part in Christiana Adewumi 12Bridge the challenge, we still enjoyed being able to work Chemistry Prefect

16 maths DEPartment

s ever, the Mathematics department at Abayomi-Joseph, Jon Webb, Lewis Bricknell and A The Math is thriving. Despite the tragic Jack Williams. hit of COVID-19, the 2019-20 academic As well as the Math challenge success, Aditi year has been excellent for the subject. Agarwal and myself achieved distinction in the Olympiad for girls. Furthermore, Aditi qualified for Firstly, we had the opening of the new, high- the British Mathematical Olympiad which put her tech mathematics block in Term 2. This allowed in the top 500 people in the competition nationally. our teachers and students to have access to the best possible equipment to teach and learn The school also took part in the Kent regional from. The block is two floors high with eleven final of the Senior Team Challenge and placed a classrooms, each equipped with smart boards respectable 3rd, beating all other schools from the and whiteboards. This gives the teachers enough Medway Towns. room to show students all working (especially The picture of the third place team is (from left) for longer more complex A-Level questions!). In Aditi Agarwal, Mustafa Elmouna, Jonathan addition, they have all the right equipment to draw Saunders and Mark Robinson. or illustrate highly complex diagrams with ease. The department also has two offices, one for Dr Karam and one for Mr Daniels. Both floors have study rooms available for Sixth Form students to use in their study periods. Furthermore, students have had amazing success in this year’s UK Maths Challenge. Thirty-four students achieved gold across Years 9 - 13, which puts them in the top 10% of the competition nationally. The following students received the gold certificate; Year 9: Jonathan Niranjan and Harry Stuart Titchener. Year 10: Edward Salter, James Murphy, Lewis Neil, Matthew Saunders, Tony Avramo V, Daniel With the support of our incredible Maths Kemp and Devie Lister. Department and the continuing presence of Year 11: Isaac Melamud, Daniel Sanmuganathan, Mathematics Prefects at support sessions, Daanish Masoud, Finn Rodgers, Leo Fisher, Felix this school will undoubtedly thrive in the next Croft, Simon Ward, Luca Barratt, Ryan Goldsmith, academic year as well as others in the future. Toju Kosefobamu, Dorian Kopij, Sami Englefield, Gurnoor Mann and Amith Thomas. Rebekah Bryant 12Tower Year 12: Jonathan Saunders, Davide Hoxhaj, Mustafa Elmouna, Akshay Krishnakumar and Mathematics Prefect Miles Archer. Year 13: Aditi Agarwal, Mark Robinson, Victor

17 WORLD BOOK DAY GAVE THE WORLD BOOK DAY OPPORTUNITY TO PROMOTE READING AND TO INSPIRE ONE OR TWO BUDDING AUTHORS

hursday the 5th of March saw the English T Department turn arty, designing their doors in the theme of their favourite books, in order to promote a love of reading.

With a plethora of books to choose from, only the best made the cut, with classics, such as ‘1984’ and ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’, making an appearance, whilst the Big Brother Eye watched the department. English Teachers and Prefects designed and made the doors, with the coordinated effort ensuring the successful promotion of books. With a myriad of genres on display, there was something to be found for everyone. Some of the best books that had been immortalised into film were present. Mr Arnold’s two doors left him with double the challenge, leading to a ‘Game of Thrones’ inspired montage of images; one door representing the fire, and the other, the ice. The dystopian genre also made a prominent appearance this year, due to it being the chosen genre for A Level Coursework. The aforementioned eye of Big Brother was present on two doors, whilst Maragaret Atwood’s ‘Oryx and Crake’ featured, along with ‘A Clockwork Orange’. World Book Day is a pivotal event in the English Department’s Calendar, as the books on display could inspire future writers, or even inspire the response for a creative writing piece that someone may write in a GCSE Exam. The books chosen were also highly relevant to the situation of today, with the evacuation of citizens seen in ‘Goodnight Mr Tom’ being reminiscent of the possible future fears over COVID-19, with many arguing that this situation is like the prelude to many Dystopian novels. However, whatever the future of society, the timeless classics that were found here today, continue to remain relevant to the lives of millions, reigniting a flare for literature.

18 CambridgeTrip to MR MILNE and MR kitsell took thirty year twelve students to queens’ college, cambridge for an insight into university life. Jonathan saunders tells us more.

ueens’ is one of the oldest colleges to galvanise their academic and super-curricular Q at Cambridge; founded in 1448, it efforts, as they become further motivated by the covers a relatively large area on both prospect of spending their further education in a sides of the River Cam, with the famous university as prestigious as this one. Mathematical Bridge connecting the two parts.

The trip was set up in order to give students an insight into university life, helping us understand what is required to get into this prestigious university. A former student of the college, who currently works at the university as an admissions guidance expert, gave us an in depth seminar as to the ins and outs of Oxbridge applications. We were given detailed information booklets, specifically tailored for our individual subjects of interest. As well as being enlightened to the academic structure of the university, and the general life of a student, many argue that the only true way to know a university As students, we are ever grateful to the school; is by experiencing its atmosphere and its culture. especially Mr Milne and Mr Kitsell; for organising This was especially true for Nii Anang, who noted this awe-inspiring trip, helping us to gain an that the day gave him ‘an understanding for the insight into life beyond school. In sum, the trip culture and heritage of Cambridge’ as well as fulfilled curiosities whilst providing clarification clarifying the all-important admissions process. and inspiration for future endeavours. Personally, I feel that the day marked a pivotal event in the students’ educational lives, helping

19 MathSchoolArt Karis Olumakin 11Karis CASTLE Tymon Jarosz 11 GORDON Felix Croft 11 RIVER

Ognyan Rashkov 11 TOWER Connor Peake 11 BRIDGE Arina Grosu 12 BRIDGE

Nathan Ablewhite 11 RIVER Egan Sharp 12 THETFORD Samuel Barker 13 CASTLE Karis Olumakin 11CASTLE

CLASS OF 2020 @ TATE MODERN ur students find themselves growing O up amid a relatively turbulent and challenging economic, political and cultural climate. We are reminded daily, however, by what we see in school, that our students are developing the character traits and personal dispositions that will equip them to meet these challenges successfully.

In order to recognise the positive character development activities that our students get involved in, for the first time this year we launched a Character Award scheme for Year 8 Pupils. In September, Year 8 were issued with a small blazer-pocket sized card which listed all of the activities available in school which contribute to character development, such as being a guide at Year 6 Open Evening, going on a school trip, raising money for the Sport Relief charity or participating in a House event. Throughout the year, pupils were encouraged to log the activities they had undertaken, with the aim of completing as many as possible. Pupils have been presented with their certificates as they were achieved in Lower School Assemblies. A Nano Certificate for five actvitities, a Micro Certificate for ten, a Mega certificate for fifteen, up to a Giga Certificate awarded to those logging twenty activities. 8 Gordon achieved the most certificates, with a total of 33 followed closely by River with a total of 30. Bridge managed to obtain the most Giga Certificates. Well done to all pupils in Year 8 who achieved a Character Award. All pupils who gained a Mega or Giga Award had the chance to win an eYotto waterproof sports watch - congratulations to Zain Ahmed, Samuel Mills, Awal Sholagberu and Samuel Oke who were the lucky winners. The award will return next year for Year 8,

CHARACTER BUILDING CHARACTER giving pupils more chances to demonstrate the excellent character traits we associate with our Math School values. 27 BRIDGE

Head of House: Mr. S. J. Marsden House Captain: I. Mirza Deputy House Captains: P. Hemingway, R. Horton, S. Garratt

ridge House performed with their customary B strong spirit and effort across all house events this year: sporting, artistic and academic. Despite the addition of a new house meaning traditional formats to competitions were adjusted and previous house members were now rivals, our collective resilience was shown, with everyone admirably taking these changes in their stride.

Bridge saw overall success in House Creative Writing this year, with no age-group placing below second. Cross Country was another strong performance for Bridge – unlucky to only finish a close third overall. Seniors won House Rugby for a second year in a row, triumphing in a thrilling and competitive final against Castle. The theme for House Music was ‘Top of The Pops’. It was one of the closest competitions in recent years, and the performers did themselves proud. In these very strange times, we congratulate all who have represented the house in any competition this year, and we hope Bridge House will return in the new academic year with even

HOUSE REPORTS 2019 - 20 greater strength and unity. P. Hemingway Deputy House Captain

28 secure the treble the entire house desperately wanted. As Mr Bailey read the final merit count aloud, it was still impossible to tell the identity of the victor. Silence fell as he read that a mere 2 house points decided the entire competition – one of the closest and exciting finales in Cock House Cup history. Unfortunately, those two points fell to Pitt House. It was an incredibly bitter blow, but us officials, CASTLE refused to dwell on this disappointment. Instead, it reignited a passion, a determination and a sense of collective togetherness. It’s the enthusiasm of the officials, the vibrancy and inclusivity of the Head of House: Mr. C. Alderman house and as the integrity and determination of House Captain: H. Cooper all members of Castle, that has allowed us to Deputy House Captains: O. Anfela, I. compete at the very top of the Cock House Cup Eligue, D. Johnson competition in recent history. Many members he school year of 2018-19 proved to be one of of Castle will have heard this phrase proudly T the most astonishing and exciting in the long proclaimed, year on year, that “Castle is not just and prestigious history of the ‘Cock House Cup’ a house, it’s a family”. We remain the only house competition - with a tense and breath-taking finale capable of challenging the Pitt machine, and to match. My tenure as one of Castle’s ‘Deputy although results have been mixed in the 2019- House Captains’ began a few months prior to 20, a fantastic display has allowed Castle to take this, as our successful predecessors Angus, Raj, home the House Debating trophy for the first time. Cameron and Peace announced the names they It’s fair to say this has been a year like no other. As selected to take control of what was a superbly schools closed, the House Fitness Challenge was dominant house, now on for the treble – three created, encouraging members of each house overall victories in a row. The responsibility of to run, cycle, row or walk and accumulate ‘runs’ carrying us to this treble fell upon, Haydn Cooper based on their achieved distances. (House Captain), Olu Anfela (Deputy House Our final duties as House Officials were to select Captain), AJ Eligue (Deputy House Captain) and our successors. Castle has had a history of myself, Drew Johnson (Deputy House Captain). enthusiastic and charismatic leaders that embody the values of the house and with the new house Within the 2018-19 school year, Castle achieved official team, this is the legacy we’ve hoped to fantastic results in some of the highest scoring compose. Although, 2019/20 is likely to shake up house events, including overall victories in Music, the normal final result of the house competition, Rugby, Hockey and Stem, putting us firmly placed, we are all sure that the newly selected officials, in the fight for the elusive treble victory. I vividly alongside the fantastic support of Mr Alderman recall the day prior to the final assembly, with the (Head of House), will give Castle the drive they final merits submitted, attempting to calculate the need to reassert their winning ways next year, and overall results alongside Haydn, when we were spoil Pitt’s party. shocked to discover, that the entire year of a total 18 house events and thousands of total house D. Johnson points accumulated, would be shockingly decided Deputy House Captain by merely a few merits. Castle led the merit count spectacularly (typically a great strength of ours), however we had to achieve a certain gap to second placed Pitt to

29 with ourselves. The admirable efforts of those who willingly stepped up to help the House were outstanding. Even though, Bella and I, five foot something females knew we had a slim chance in winning athletic events against strong six-foot males, we still competed against them with pride for Gordon. I am no runner, yet I still competed in three running events, to show our team that being diligent and motivated are traits all Gordon peers GORDON should acquire. We all competed for the House in an epic fashion. Compared to previous years, this was not the Head of House: Mr C. Arnold most successful in Gordon’s history. However, House Captain: J. Pearson quite recently we did place 2nd overall in House Deputy House Captains: L. Cross, Writing and Badminton, which is a noticeably C. Dockwray, I. Toohey big achievement. One of my highlights from being involved as House Captain was House his year Gordon House had many changes. Music. Mental Health was our theme chosen by T Miss Cook stepped down after holding and Mr Arnold, as we wanted to present a real issue representing the position of Head of Gordon that many people face every day and create amazingly since 2015. Therefore, a new Head awareness through our musical representation was required. 2019-2020 was the first year that and to give our performance a flow from one Mr Arnold reigned as the Gordon Head of House. performance to the next. Everybody should Mr Arnold brought a new light into the House take mental health seriously and if they thought assemblies and when presenting them he always anybody was struggling with theirs, they should motivates Gordon to achieve their best and aim offer a helping hand. Our piece showed a journey for gold. The new House Officials were also put of somebody with mental health problems. Firstly, into place: House Captain being; Jessica Pearson we wanted to illustrate the feeling of being on top of and Deputies being Leo Cross, Clark Dockwray, the world; feeling that you can chase your dreams and Isabella Toohey. and achieve anything you want to. Starting the piece filled with energy and enthusiasm were the Despite the titles, the responsibilities were shared year seven choir with ‘Just Can’t Wait to Be King’ equally, and the hard work, pride and dedication from ‘The Lion King’ who set Gordon apart from was also reciprocated. all the other choirs in the House event. Us officials After earning our House Official titles, there was were tremendously impressed with 7 Gordon’s no time to rest and we were already busy living up commitment to do well and we took pleasure in to our roles in Gordon. The first major event we helping them perform their best when they came needed to plan was Founder’s day. Although, we to practise at lunchtimes repeatedly. Next, were had planned and put everything in place for the two pieces that were bleaker by displaying the big day, when the sporting event arrived, we had a depressed, melancholic emotions of somebody, few teething problems with students dropping out through our Year 8’s moving piece and simply due to injuries or other disappointing reasons. We outstanding performance on piano and Dominic needed to fill places quick and in the best possible Nash’s (Year 13) sorrowful guitar solo. Finally, way we could, as we were dedicated not to lose our last performance was our Band performing points for unfilled places. The quick thinking, ‘This Is Me’ from ‘The Greatest Showman’. We mature attitude of my team was something to wanted to leave our audience with the impression admire, when we decided to fill in the spaces with that its okay to be different and experience down any Gordon peers suitable and available and then moments; and finally it is important to embrace

30 who you are, like it is in Gordon. I wanted the lower years in the audience to feel more involved, so I decided to start a clap with the song, which then spread throughout the hall. We did not win House Music, however the judges commented on saying that our theme was the best and most meaningful. Us Officials had a lot of fun helping; Bella and I were passionate when narrating and presenting the piece. As well as, Mr Arnold, Leo, and Clark were essential and extremely helpful for PITT the organisation of the show. The final House event of the year came during the unprecedented and challenging time period of lockdown; and has never been something Head of House: Mr. J. C. Townsend we have had to deal with before in our lives. At House Captain: T. Churchouse the half way point Gordon were slumped in rock Deputy House Captains: bottom. But thanks to rousing pleas, messages D. Lanckmans, L. Pavan, A. Takk of motivation, galvanizing emails to House fter the incredible end to last year’s campaign, Officials, incoming House Official applicants, Year where Pitt House won by just two points, there group Captains and committed members who A was a bit of a shakeup due to the introduction of had already participated from Mr Arnold and us Tower House. This meant that all prior form was as Officials we managed to battle and claw our thrown up in the air with many students now way up to 4th and 1 point from 3rd. This was a redistributed around all seven houses. However, mammoth effort and proved our teamwork and Pitt started their defence of the Cock House Cup spirit amongst us all. Perhaps if we had started with another racket sport double, picking up the our shift earlier who knows where we could Badminton trophy for the second year in a row in have ended up. Gordon House did not achieve addition to the House Table Tennis competition everything we hoped for this year, I am extremely which makes it three years on the bounce. Special proud of my house and team’s hard work and mention must go to the 8 Pitt badminton team, efforts. Being the House Captain of Gordon has who became the first ever to record 6 victories been an honour and has taught me many things in a single house event. House Debating was a such as, leadership, teamwork, and pride, which I small bump in the road after not quite having the am forever grateful for. This year we have shown greatest starts but, a superb performance from that Gordon is a welcoming, passionate House. Eddie Scudder and Leon Hedges meant a win in Whether you are sporty, intelligent, creative, or the Junior competition and an amicable fifth place just want to be part of a team; Gordon House will overall. make you feel comfortable and determined to succeed. As we are handing down this legacy to November saw the return of the Art and Creative the new officials, I ask that they try their absolute Writing competitions and although the results for best in making Gordon succeed, but also have writing were not what the house had hoped for, fun in doing so along the way. I wish Gordon and Pitt picked up their third trophy in six competitions, the House officials the best in the future wherever showing the rest of the houses that last year’s it may bring them and that they will always efforts were not just a one hit wonder. remember no matter what that G is for Gordon January again saw the return of House Music, and G is for Glory… one of the prize jewels in the house competition J. Pearson event and something that has eluded Pitt House House Captain for some years now. It was an excellent event and

31 all houses had really stepped up their game and the overall show was a real spectacle to watch. It was another close run event with the some of the highest scoring performances in history. Thankfully, Pitt again were victorious, albeit by a single mark. Special mentions have to go Oskar Muchardt, who showed amazing confidence to front the house band, the Year 7 choir who were the talk of all the judges and James Getting whose senior solo was perfection and played a pivotal RIVER role in the organisation of the whole event. Well done to everyone who was involved. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, much of the Head of House: Miss. C. Hindson house rugby, hockey, football and other spring House Captain: J. Williams events were unable to be completed and the Deputy House Captains: D. Ndhlovu, house cause took a backseat while lockdown N. Rebelo, T. Tingley was in place. It was not the end of to our tenure we were hoping for, however, Pitt has done fter being elected as the new House Officials themselves proud yet again. A in May 2019, we were under a lot of pressure At this point, it was time to hand over to the new to maintain River’s strong performance in the selected officials team, ready to take Pitt into the timetabled summer house events. Despite some 2020-21 Cock House season. There were many positive results earlier in the year across music, strong candidates and in the end, a new team of rugby, cross country and debating, we were Stanley Barness, Samuel Burge and Thomas King behind where we wanted to be. As the new House will be led by new house captain Piers Bennett. Officials, our priority was to organise these events As lockdown eased, there was just time for one as early as possible so that we could select the more event. House Cricket had been altered, so strongest sides across all year groups to give us that any student could enter and score runs for the the best possible chance of victory. Founder’s house by either walking, running or cycling certain Day did prove to be the toughest task for me to distances. Pitt knew their previous success was organise as House Captain, however my hard based on mass participation and this event was work was met with excellent cooperation from no exception. From day one of the competition, all those participating. Although I had organised runs started flooding in from all different kinds of reserves, none were needed which demonstrated students throughout the house and meant that we the positive attitude emanating from the house dominated through the month long event, never as a whole. The responsibility of the students slipping from first place and finishing almost 200 across all year groups in turning up to events on runs in front of our nearest competitor. This saw time in perfect kit, combined with some strong the fifth trophy of the 2019-20 season added to the results gave me increased motivation to carry cabinet and will hopefully push Pitt house towards on my hard work in the next academic year, but a second successive Cock House Championship. also made me extremely proud to be the House Captain of River. The Seniors won both cricket Let’s hope that “Every year is the year of the and athletics (Founder’s Day), which were backed Yellows”. up by some strong finishes in the same events T. Churchouse by the Inters. However poor performances from House Captain the Juniors allowed Pitt House to edge us in the summer events. Nonetheless, a collectively strong performance in Term 6 helped us to secure third place in the overall House Championship as

32 we came to the close of the academic year. The get in the academic year, due to the country end of the academic year also saw a change in going into lockdown as a result of the COVID-19 Head of House as Miss Knapp made the move pandemic. On Thursday 19th March, Prime to teach abroad. On behalf of the whole of River Minster Boris Johnson announced the Lockdown House, I would like to thank Miss Knapp for all the measures effective from Monday 23rd March that time and effort that she put into the house since would make our last day of School Friday 20th becoming the Head of House in 2014. Miss Knapp March. This resulted in the cancellation of many was an inspiring leader to all students, showing house events including Founder’s Day, the most her support at house events across all year important day of the year at the Math. I personally groups and motivating us in assembly. We wish find this deeply saddening as I really enjoyed her all the best in the future. At the end of the year Founder’s Day and competing for River as a Miss Knapp began handing over to Miss Hindson whole, and I’m sure everyone else as competitive who succeeded her to become Head of House in as me across all forms feels the same. House September 2019. cricket however did go ahead although it was performed in a very unorthodox fashion – virtually. On our return in September, we looked for a Runs were awarded to students who sent in proof strong performance in the autumn events to try that they had walked, ran or cycled a certain and build on our overall placement in the previous distance. The competition ran for a month with year. Unfortunately, in Term 1 despite a 3rd place lots of changes to the standings across that overall in senior debating and cross country, we period. In the end though, River placed 3rd ranked 7th in merits and had some poor results in overall. A last minute effort from a 5 man cycling badminton and football, including a Year 11 side team of William Hick, Finn Rodgers, Sam Yorke, that didn’t show up for house football despite a Josh Mason and Euan Terry scored 30 runs for team being organised. I believe that this should the House, which, followed by a late week’s worth be highlighted as one of the weaknesses of the of activity from 7 River’s Jonathan Lyn-Cook saw house, with the aim that we should do more to try us jump from 5th to 3rd on the most important and strengthen these weaknesses as we strive to day of the competition. This last surge saw River push to win the overall competition in the future. House finish on 455 runs. Special mention goes Improvements were shown in term 2 as we went to Ross Cheese from 9 River who scored 57 up to 5th in the merit count amidst victories for the runs individually, the most out of everyone in the junior art students and the Year 13 table tennis house. I want to thank the boys mentioned and side. However there were still disappointing everyone else involved in giving River that much results such as 7th for both the Year 8 and 9 rugby needed push when motivation from the House sides. Official Team at School during form time was not Mixed results were a theme of Term 3 as well, possible. with Year 13 and Year 10 football sides finishing After the Lockdown restrictions had eased, 1st and 2nd respectively, however we maintained Tom, Nelson, Denise and I went into school on a 5th in the merit count and came 7th in house two separate days to conduct socially distanced music. Music is one of the biggest House Events interviews to appoint the new House Officials. to occur and I owe a lot of credit to Jamie Alcock in Excellent interviews were given by all candidates Year 12, and in particular Nelson Rebelo (Deputy making our decision very difficult, however after House Captain) for organising the whole event for much debate we all agreed that Bethany Webber River. Although our placement was disappointing, would be the next House Captain, alongside a I am told every house performed brilliantly and team of Deputies including Joe Delyfer, Charlie River still performed very well but the standard of Elliott and Eliot Nye and. I have no doubt this will the music performed was one of the best in the be a successful and organised team capable of history of the event. motivating all students to do the very best they can These were seemingly the last results we would for River, and a team who enjoy the responsibility

33 of the role as much as my deputies and I did. We overall, which can obviously be greatly improved. wish them all the best. During the year, art, writing and music were our Finally, I would like to thank Miss Hindson for all best events with a 3rd place finish. However, the effort she has gone to in her first year as Head although the results may have gone against us of House not only for motivating students of all the individual efforts have not gone unnoticed by ages and making our time as officials enjoyable, us House Officials. Especially for the latest event, but for putting in a lot of thought on how to house fitness, where after a great overall effort, improve the current house system for officials we finished 2nd. and for all students in the school. On behalf of Yet, where we’ve slipped where events are the other officials, we want to wish her the best concerned, we as a house have triumphed in the of luck during her time as Head of House. I would merit department sitting in first place and holding also like to thank everyone in River House for an that position for the majority of the academic excellent overall attitude, to all the staff who make year. This achievement can not be understated the events happen, and to the school as I feel as it show commitment through the entirety of the exceptionally lucky to have been at a school with Thetford House and will play a massive part to our such a competitive and enjoyable house system. overall house standings once it is applied at the J. Williams end. House Captain I would like to say thank you to all the Form Tutors who help organize each Thetford year group from their athletic efforts to their outstanding assemblies. And I would like to give a special thank you to my deputy officials, Davud Kilinc, Faye Nelson, and Tom Hatton, who have worked tirelessly throughout the year to make sure the house is run smoothly. And of course I thank our Head of House, Ms. Miller, for the amazing contribution she has put towards our house and my form. THETFORD To everyone who is leaving Thetford, whether they are year 13 or year 11, and to those who were moved to Tower last year that once were Thetford, I wish to say thank you for any and all Head of House: Miss. J. Miller of your contributions to the house and best of luck House Captain: M. Crust for whatever you plan to do now. Deputy House Captains: T.Hatton, D. Kilinc, F. Nelson M. Crust House Captain ven though the 2019 – 20 year may E be remembered for the unprecedented COVID-19 virus, that doesn’t mean any of the events that took place before hand have any less value. Since taking over as House Captain in May it has been an absolute pleasure serving the house for the time I could and only wish that Thetford House comes out stronger once school life is allowed to continue.

Currently within the standings Thetford sit 7th

34 Juniors placing 6th and the Seniors placing 7th. However, we did not let this define us and we continued pushing forward. The next event was House Writing, where Tower achieved 1st place in the Junior category and overall placing 4th. We were gradually building up confidence as a house. Next, the Juniors came 3rd in badminton. We kept persevering as we knew that first place was not far off for Tower. In the Cross Country event, the TOWER Seniors and Inters came 1st, and thus, we placed 1st overall. This was an exceptional result, with the incredible efforts of Tower House paying off. Some members competed as they trained and Head of House: Mr. S. J. Sharp trained, some just competed to increase the House Captain: B. Neal numbers of competitors, demonstrating how much Deputy House Captains: D. Baxter, the Tower House spirit means to them. We placed E. Bolton, R. Wright 2nd in House Music overall, (we were 1 point off of 1st place) with hours of rehearsals being put in by ower House is a spectacular house, with several different members of our house. Different T regards to the fact it was revived in 2019; this years had to work together to support each other immediately makes Tower House different to the in order to reach a common goal - success. We other houses which have existed for several years. then placed 3rd overall in Table Tennis and 2nd in Tower’s first year of revival included a multitude House Debating. of successes, despite some viewing Tower’s Overall, Tower has made an incredible team effort new start as a disadvantage, due to the fact that: and has had an outstanding positive attitude people that didn’t know each other were placed on throughout this academic year, despite being a the same team to compete together, people were ‘new’ house. Tower is a team, and a strong one unaware of what to expect in this ‘new’ house, and too, and it is now Tower’s responsibility to maintain people may have felt more pressure than other these high levels of motivation throughout the houses to provide an exceptional performance academic years to come and to maintain our (as it was Tower House’s first year of existence positive outlook and support for each other; if this for several decades). However, these supposed continues, I have no doubt in my mind that Tower ‘anxieties’ were not worries for us and instead House will be the best house there ever was. acted as a source of motivation to work hard in all events. As the House Captain of Tower House for B. Neal this reborn team, I had the mind-set from the start House Captain that this would be an excellent time for members to try something new, discover a new talent and to build up a rapport with the other members of the house. This gave everyone a clean slate to work from; it provided members with the confidence that they were all equal and were able to represent the house in any event that they wanted to.

Throughout this year filled with team spirit and positive attitudes towards new beginnings, Tower House displayed its talents and exceptional team qualities. It was an expected slow start with the House Art event, with the Inters placing 3rd, the

35 MATH SCHOOL HEADTEACHER, MR Hodges, shares his OWN PERSONAL views on a fulfilling life in education.

Sports RUGBY REPORT encouraged the team and caused them to his year the First XV’s season started grow in confidence in what they could later T overseas with the school’s first ever tour achieve rather than despair due to their to Canada. After an anxious 6 hour flight current score lines. the First XV and Under 15s touched down A glimpse of their future form was displayed in Montreal, excited for 12 days they would during the Rugby 7s season. After a quick never forget. The two weeks passed quickly transition from the main season the squad with each day seemingly better than the last was entered into a number of 7s tournaments. and the tour was truly a once in a lifetime The team performed outstandingly, claiming experience. However, the only thing which wins against Tonbridge Judd, Gravesend seemed to top this were the performances Grammar School and even Eltham College, on the pitch. With convincing wins over which saw them win the Gravesend Montreal Irish RFC and Fergus Highland Grammar invitational tournament. They fell RFC, the closest game came when the First just short at Kent 7s with a narrow loss to XV came up against Ottawa Ospreys RFC, Maidstone Grammar School in the group where they faced a previous Math School stages, seeing them leave the competition student (David Adeleye). Despite the earlier than hoped. challenge, the First XV still managed to come With Roselyn Park cancelled due to the out on top, with a comfortable 24-5 victory. spread of COVID-19, all sights are set on

Report the 2020-21 season and what this team This led the young team into the main could truly accomplish. season, with a team of mainly Year 12 students. This lack of size and experience proved costly to the side, only managing Michael Fankah 12Castle to come out with 1 incredible win (won in First XV Captain the last seconds due to a sublime kick by Miles Archer 12Br) over Kings Canterbury HOCKEY REPORT and 1 tense draw with Cranbrook in their 9 fixtures. Nonetheless, the team came Looking into the 2019-20 season it was out of the other side motivated rather than one of the strongest teams The Math had disheartened. Despite their record they were seen in quite some time, with some very rarely outplayed and many of the team’s experienced Sixth Former’s and welcoming losses came from a lack of experience. This in a collection of very skilled Year 11s, 10s,

36 Sports Report 8s and 9s. From this we were already able to put of the day, going into the game as a team we knew together a very promising team, and with high this would be an incredibly challenging game. We level coaching provided by Mr Webster and Mr came away with an undeserved 2-0 loss. Our next Curtis we had high hopes for the season ahead. two matches were crucial to deciding if we were The season had already had a reassuring start to be placed into the Trophy or the Plate rounds. with the great number of players in training Next up was Ashford school who we knew would from both the 1st XI and 2nd XI, allowing us as be very physical in game, we managed to come a collective to be able to pack in some good away from the game with a 0-0 draw due to a quality training before our fist fixtures. Heading mature team attitude in game. Moving onto our into the first game we were playing Kent college last game of the pool stages we were faced with who would be one of our tougher opponents we St Edmund’s School who we either needed to win would face all season. In this first game we were or draw to so that we secured our place in the experimenting with a new style of play which trophy knockout stages that would commence we had practiced in the pre-season training, as later in the day. Unfortunately, the result from this suggested by Mr Webster. We came away from game was a 1-0 loss which left the team very the game with an excellent result, winning 2-0, disheartened. This resulted in us being entered with exceptional efforts all round. into the Plate knockout stages held at Polo Farm. Quickly moving into the first round we were playing Our first knockout tournament of the season Sutton Valence School. Annoyingly we received a was the Kent cup. In the first round we saw a tough 2-0 loss. This was an incredibly challenging comfortable win against Sir Roger Manwood’s, game for the team, as we were all exhausted from moving us into the next round and facing the well- the previous day of hockey. However, the team rounded King’s School, Canterbury. This was a rose to the challenge and put in an excellent challenge for us as a team with the final score performance. settled at 3-2 with it going right to the last minute. These two great wins meant we were into the As a team, after the two tournaments we were semi-final playing Langley Park, a team many of determined to end the season on a high and prove us had not played before. This was our toughest to ourselves and each other our quality. This was challenge we had faced so far as a team. It was a clearly shown in our last three results where we nail-biting game with the result ending in a 2-1 loss won 2-0, 3-1 and 2-0. We were wanting to carry with the game going right to the wire. This was our on this winning streak for our last three matches first disappointing defeat due to the outstanding against Kent College, Sir Roger Manwood’s and effort put in by the whole team through the game Ashford School but to our disappointment these and the tournament. matches were all cancelled due to the COVID-19 situation. The very next day after our Semi-Final to Langley Park, we were straight into the Frank Mason Throughout the season we had some incredibly tournament which would be a real challenge tough challenges and results which all the boys for the team mentally and physically. Our first put their maximal effort into. The season ended game of the day was against Norton Knatchbull short but on a good note which the team deserved. Grammar School where we came away with a A massive well done to all the players this year for well-deserved 3-1 win boosting us up for the day the dedication to training, and incredible attitudes ahead. St Lawrence College were our next game shown by all. We credit our development to the quality coaching and encouragement we received

37 from Mr Webster and Mr Curtis as well as the rest together as a team, as we learned everyone’s of the PE staff at The Math, And I look forward to personal skills and weaknesses, we were able hearing how the team gets on next year. to complement each other and create a well- balanced team. Alex Lingham 13Pitt Despite the season being cut short by the recent First XI Captain COVID-19 pandemic our now versatile team with talented players were able to compete in matches NETBALL REPORT against schools including Kent College and To begin the 2019-20 netball season, we attended Langley Park. Due to the vast improvements we the Kent Schools Tournament, hosted at Rainham had made as a team over the past few months we Girls School. Where our team, with some of were able to win the majority of our games. The the new Year 12 players, held our own against commitment that the girls dedicated this year was the all-girls schools; with their advantage of awarded with Full and Half School Colours for playing together for years this was a challenging Netball, recognising engagement from this year. tournament as at this point in the year we were I am immensely proud of the girls from this year’s just beginning with our squad. team, making so much progress and playing together in way that will certainly be missed; all We only grew from here, the competitive, high of this guided by the coaching from Tara and Miss enthusiasm atmosphere at training, maintained Robson, leading the way for this enjoyable and by Tara and Miss Robson, with new coaching successful season. techniques and drills that brought us together as a team and developed out skills. The most vital part of this that we gained was the ability to play Rebecca Wright 13Tower Netball Captain

38 Isle of Wight The school trip to the isle of wight has become a regular fixture on the school calendar. George newton was one of the math school pupils who attended last time around. ast July, Year 8 were lucky enough to enough to take part in. L have the opportunity to spend part of the For many, the afternoon of water sports activities last week before the summer holidays at a was an entirely new experience, with students Kingswood PGL camp on the Isle of Wight. taking part in stand-up paddle boarding and raft This trip has taken place many times before building. Although the water was cold, everyone for previous Year 8’s; it provides the chance to was eager to take part; no-one stayed dry on the take part in team building activities, strengthen paddle boards. One student remarked, ‘For me, existing friendships, and make new ones. the most memorable part of the spectacular trip has to be the paddle board games. The instructors were fun, and convinced everybody to jump in and have fun.’ Personally, my favourite activity was at the Kingswood centre: the leap of faith. The leap of faith was my group’s final activity before the journey home and it was certainly the most exhilarating of them all! At first, we all tentatively inched out over the platform, taking a while to make the jump, however, by the end, everyone had overcome their fears and could leap high. Another firm favourite was the Jacob’s ladder – a tough challenge involving both agility and strong teamwork. The ladder consisted of horizontal wooden beams, spaced further apart the higher you got up; both my partner and I were determined to reach the top, which, unfortunately, didn’t happen. All of my group approached the obstacle with this determination, with some skilful enough to complete the activity. The Kingswood trip was, for many, an opportunity to try something new, and make memories with Jacob’s ladder, obstacle course and the leap of friends. For me however, it was a chance to leave faith were just a few of the thrilling activities at behind ordinary worries, and relax after a busy, the centre, which pushed us to our limits, as well tough and rewarding school year. as the afternoon of water sports we were lucky

39 VISIT TO AUSCHWITZ

SAM BURGE shares an emotional account of his visit to Auschwitz with the holocuast educational trust.

ust over a month ago, I visited Auschwitz 1 seminars, in which I was given the opportunity J and Birkenau with the Holocaust Educational to listen first hand to Manfred Goldberg, a Trust (HET) as part of their project known as the Holocaust survivor from Stutthof in Poland, who Lessons From Auschwitz (LFA). As I was told, no was also a prisoner in a death march in the last manner of preparation could mentally prepare me days of the war. My experience was made all for what I saw (and could not see). Through this the more special due to the harrowing reminder experience, I was privileged to be able to visit a that I myself am the last generation to be able site with such international importance and come to hear such people first hand, which is truly a to terms with what the figure of 6 million Jews who surreal experience. Manfred, at the age of 14, died during the Holocaust means on a much more experienced his brother’s disappearance from personal level. Plaszow concentration camp while he was at labour, by SS Guards. Though this is a small part Through the school, I was selected as a of such a large testimony, this personally hit me participant in the HET project early in January. very hard, having a brother myself, and brought On the 13th February, I attended the first of two me to the realisation of the importance of family

40 as well as, sadly, how I will never be able to fully Birkenau than I originally realised. Here the comprehend the experiences of Manfred. shoes, glasses, bags and hair of Jewish prisoners On the other side of the half term break, I visited are displayed. The shoes were very significant the town known as Oswiecim, made infamous as to me, as I remember seeing a photo of them in the site of the Auschwitz camps and sub-camps. piles in a World War Two book back when I was I spent a day there, leaving Gatwick at 7am and in Year 6; therefore, to see this for myself brought returning at 10pm, in which I visited the town itself, a greater depth of understanding and realisation along with Auschwitz 1 and Birkenau. In Oswiecim, to an image I originally had little comprehension I visited the site of the Great Synagogue, which of the full picture. Here, the most notorious place was burnt down just previously to the Nazi arrival to visit is the gas chamber that is still intact, along in the town. The site’s refurbishment in the last with the crematorium. The bleak innocence of the year proved to me the contemporary importance empty room contrasts to the underlying knowing of the Holocaust even in the modern day and of the mass atrocities that occurred in there, the need to continue to shed a light upon such a bringing an overwhelming sorrow. Using “sorrow” dark topic. At the reflection seminar, my educator does not do justice to the emotional response the spoke of Oswiecim being: “a normal Polish experience brought to me, which I believe, like town”, which made me reflect upon the change describing the trip as a whole, cannot be done in normality the Holocaust brought to European through words, but an understanding through the society as a whole, with this town having such a first hand experience which Auschwitz brings to large Jewish population; and now having no Jews a person. in it. By saying this, I do not mean to claim that On arrival at Auschwitz Birkenau, what originally no town has Jews in Poland, or Europe, but to overwhelmed me was the size. Most of the reflect upon the mass upheaval of a population, buildings are no longer present, with only the which has caused such societal change within solitary chimneys as a reminder to what was these regions. once there. This allows you to look for miles, with Auschwitz 1 acts more as a museum of Auschwitz the site covering an area of 40km. Many images reflect the front gate and entrance to Birkenau and

5541 its opposing figure. However, this is dwarfed by hear, remember and spread, in order to continue the scale of the camp itself and for me now, is a the legacy of survivors and to acknowledge a past metaphor for the Holocaust, which has epitomised which is so bleak. the genocide through this singular image of Psychologically, I do not believe I will ever fully Auschwitz front gate, causing people to forget understand what I saw at Auschwitz and even now, the many other concentration, labour and death thinking about it almost a month after, I cannot pin camps spread across Eastern Europe. Therefore, down what brings such overwhelming emotion it is important I believe to continue talking about even thinking about the topic. At stages during the Holocaust, however challenging that is, to the trip, what I saw brought tears to my eyes, but both remember the past and prevent this atrocity like I previously said, I could not say which part of ever happening again in the future. what I saw caused this, as the whole experience People asked me following the trip: “How was it?” was extremely emotive. The extremities of the or “Did you enjoy it?” My only description I can give actions during the Holocaust are unfathomable to most humans and I believe I just could not fathom what I saw. I understand now how personal each person’s reaction and experience to such a trip is and as I was told by my educator: “There is no wrong or right response”. On reflection of the trip, for me, a visit to Auschwitz was something I wanted to do and believe that at some point in the future, I should go again, to see parts that I was not able to see due to timings, and to fully appreciate the vast array of documents, photos and other artefacts that are present. I believe it is important to remember the atrocities of their Holocaust, as a reminder for the future. The Bosnian genocide which came to my attention earlier this year, occurring exactly 50 years after the Holocaust, is a pressing reminder that genocides can and still occur and history can repeat itself. After researching the Bosnian War, I believe it is important that people know of to Auschwitz is harrowing, and even this does not and remember this, as being born 8 years after pay dividends to the experience. Auschwitz could the genocide, I had little knowledge of it. It may never be something one enjoys, but for me a place not be on the same scale as the Holocaust, but to understand the lives of singular people, within still took the lives of more than eight thousand the 6 million Jews killed during the Holocaust, as Bosniak civilians (Bosnian Muslims) who cannot well as a place to reflect upon my own life. It is be forgotten. important too, to remember that it was not just Lastly, I would like to thank the Holocaust Jews that were killed, but also Russian prisoners Educational Trust for the experience, through both of war, Romany as well as physically and mentally the seminars and the trip itself which I know I will incapacitated. Again, like the facts and statistics, never forget, my school for selecting me to take the circumstances of the Holocaust can be easily part in this opportunity, and people I spoke to and generalised and dehumanised, making it easier met during the trip who were able to give me other for people to detach themselves for the human insights into their view of the Holocaust. life that was lost. Therefore, the testimony of survivors such as Manfred are so important to

42 Rochester Remembers DREW JOHNSON was part of the Holocaust memorial day trust’s service in rochester - a poignant day for all who attended.

s the rain poured heavily on the dark and Upon attaining power of the region, he and his A frosty evening of Monday 27th January, party quickly set about almost randomly targeting members of the local community came together at and murdering groups of Cambodian Nationals Rochester Cathedral, on this, the 75th Anniverasry for example, some were killed merely for wearing of the liberation of Auschwitz, to remember not glasses (seen as an indicator of intellect and thus only those who perished at the hands of the threat to the state). Nazis during World War Two, but all people who My speech aimed to inform the watching audience have suffered at the hands of oppresive regimes. of the ability mankind has to conduct horrific atrocity against each other, however also the fact All in attendance were gathered to witness and be that those involved in the Khmer Rouge campaign, a part of the annual Holocaust Memorial service, that was eventually toppled, were trialled not for held on behalf of the ‘Holocaust Memorial Trust’. murder, but for crimes against humanity, humanity These types of remembrance services were being as a collective. Genocidal events, of which held worldwide and thus illustrate the universality the most infamous is the Holocaust, concern of feeling. In attendance, were members of the entirety of humanity, not just those directly Medway Council, the Medway Youth Council, The affected and involved and boils down to the innate Chatham Memorial Synagogue and the Medway responsibility we have as Humans to care for Inter Faith Action group. A number of local schools each other. Without empathy, compassion and send representatives as the Math School once humility, we ultimately lose exactly what helps again. defines us as human, and genocidal events such On behalf of the school, I had been tasked with as those witnessed in the 20th century, within the the composition of a speech to be read as part of Soviet Union, Rwanda, Nazi occupied Europe and the evening’s service – however with the proviso Cambodia, all tell a much too familiar tale of how that this speech should investigate an alternative such human empathy and care for each other can 20th century genocide, because despite its name, be lost and forgotten with frightening ease. the Holocaust Memorial Service is established to However, remembrance services and the reflect and remember the suffering off all those gathering of different cultural, ethnic and racial throughout history killed, and consequently groups together, such as occurs at the annual affected by the genocidal persecution of ethnic, Holocaust Memorial Service, certainly has the cultural, national or religious groups. I opted to ability remind us all of the importance community compose my speech around the atrocities of the and unification play in the successful and peaceful Cambodian genocide, officially between 1975 co-habitation of the world’s people. and 1979. I wanted to reflect upon the personal experiences of those who had witnessed the When we remember and reflect upon the atrocities work of the Khmer Rouge and Pol Pot. In brief of the past, we ultimately remind ourselves what summary, the Khmer Rouge, also known by the we must do to ensure a peaceful future, for all label of the ‘Communist Party of Kampuchea’ humanity. were spearheaded by the now infamous ‘Pol Pot’.

43 Telling

8 tower’s siddhant das, who had his first book “Stories of Crime” published in june, tells us what provides STORIES the inspriation for his writing. tories Of Crime is a collection of seven challenge myself to read new genres. However, I S short yet imaginative stories in the world did not find the time to commit to writing a book of crime fiction. The reader will journey until the lockdown. As a result of various after through the tale of a kidnap of an only son school activities being closed, I managed to make of a rich businessman, then on to a manic time to finally commit to the dream that I had when chase to stop proliferation of a deadly virus. I was younger. If that wasn’t enough, How long does it take the strange case of the you to write a book? simultaneous deaths The time taken for of cousins or a theft writing a book varies that takes the reader for each author. into a journey across Personally, I took continents, welcomes around 4 weeks to you into the world write my book, “Stories of crime through the of Crime,” but that eyes of a 12 year old. was by writing for long We asked the young hours before and after writer some questions the school day. about his approach to Typically authors want writing. to write in a more When did you first phased manner. Quite realize you wanted to contrary to this, I gave be a writer? myself a strict deadline to complete it because I first realised that I did not know how I wanted to write a long the lockdown was book at a young age. going to last. I have always loved reading, and frequently Due to this deadline, I worked hard to finish it 44 by the end of June. STORIES What is your work schedule like when you’re OF CRIME writing? by Siddhant Das When writing, my work schedule differs from the Siddhant has been routine I normally follow. While writing the book, I kind enough to let us would wake up early to write for a few hours before print a short extract school started and then again for a few hours in from his book so that the afternoon, after school ended. I gave myself a readers of this magazine week to complete at least 2-3 stories. Of course can get a flavour of his style of writing: at times inspiration hit me at awkward hours and even in the middle of the night and I would rush to my laptop to jot down my ideas. “I woke up feeling groggy and Where do you get your information or ideas unsteady. Where was I? A for your books? man with what seemed to be a demon’s smile came up to me. I got my ideas for the book from a variety of ‘Woken up have you?” he said. places, even the most obscure sources.What I I squirmed and wriggled trying to found incredibly helpful was to sit in a peaceful get out, but I couldn’t. It seemed place and just think and write a summary of the that there was something biting plot. Often, I would not adhere completely to the into my wrists. I looked down plan! Additionally, reading books similar to the and saw that my feet and hands genre of your own is helpful because it teaches were bound and felt blood you about different things that are effective - in my trickling onto the floor. “What do case, building suspense until the last minute. you want from me?” I shouted What inspired you to write this book? angrily.” There are many things that inspired me to write this book. In my primary school, I had once written a story, for which I was given a certificate from Siddhant’s book can be found the Young Writers contest. This inspired me to on Amazon to download or become more creative and let my thoughts run buy in printed paperback form. free. Also, my family inspired and encouraged me to keep writing. Often there are several incidents that occur and no matter how insignificant they You can scan the seem, it can add a lot to your plot. In my case, I QR code here to visit went for a country walk with my family, and it was Amazon and see the there that I imagined a scene for the book. This book online. incident helped me to think of a new addition to my book.

45 LAP OF H TOM CHURCHOUSE ON AN AMAZING DAY’s racing that went on to raise a whopping £5k for sport relief!!

port Relief 2020 was the last opportunity newspapers, the BBC filmed the event S I had to contribute to Sport Relief which was aired in Sport Relief coverage through the school, therefore my friends and BBC News, you may have even seen and I wanted to do something unique that my very awkward interview. would attract pupils to participate and raise Drivers were joined by Jimmy Broadbent, a significant sum of money for charity. a YouTuber and professional racing driver, and were well wished by notable drivers Driven by a mutual love of racing we set who unfortunately had to cancel their about organising a 6hr endurance go- participation due to the Australian GP such karting race at the world famous Buckmore as Lando Norris, George Russell, Dan Park Circuit, the origin of many famous Ticktum and Jack Aitken. David Daisy, careers, and a mere mile from the school. accomplished motorsport artist, displayed Overall, 12 teams collectively drove over his artwork and kindly donated a painting for 2600 miles, equal to the distance between auction and Oliver Gavin, a Le Mans Hall of Rochester and Central Africa. Teams Fame driver, donated a used Corvette race included students, teachers, sponsors and suit, both of which brought in large sums of even a few parents. money from generous buyers. Organising the event was no easy task There are three participants who the and took hours of brainstorming, hours Race Director and I felt deserved special of phone calls and hundreds of emails, mentions for their driving: Joshua Didyk which alongside our usual school day, – for managing to get launched out of a homework and jobs, made for some very kart and getting back in before the BBC late nights. However, the support from local cameras could get a good shot, Soul Newell businesses, not only those who sponsored – for managing to drive the wrong direction the event, but also local printers who around the racetrack, and finally Ruben – produced brochures and banners, donated for setting the fastest lap of the day, at 57.2 raffle prizes, embroidered race suits and seconds. donated funds, proved the presence of an incredible community spirit and the desire The event raised an amazing £5,570; to support those in need of aid. therefore, we’d like to say a big thank you to everyone involved who contributed not only Despite being a rainy morning, 72 drivers their hard-earned cash, but their valuable took part and battled for the trophy, which time and efforts for making this such an despite the chaotic start was closely outstanding success. We’re certain that contested in the closing nightly hours of the 2022 Sport Relief 12 Hour will be even the race. As well being covered by local better.

46 ONOUR

47 An Inclination for ADVENTURE SCHOOL Captain Mark Robinson tries to give us a flavour of what it means to complete the Duke of edinburgh gold award, and finds the numbers just don’t add up.

Ninety-one hours of volunteering. Ninety-one hours of physical activity. Sixty-five hours of learning different skills. One hundred and twenty hours on a residential course. About a hundred hours in a tent. 19 full days of expedition. 298 kilometres walked in all conditions in exposed and mountainous landscapes.

Anyone who has completed DofE from Bronze to Gold can quote some striking statistics, and my experience has been no different. I’ve failed however to capture any of what makes DofE so special. The numbers do not tell you of the life skills I have developed: the teamwork in preparing for the expeditions, time-management while working to deadlines, the courage to take responsibility and make decisions, the resilience to keep going after a wrong turn. DofE shows you the positives of pushing yourself, the enjoyment in being a positive influence on society, joining a sports team, learning something new. The numbers don’t tell you that I’ll remember the experience forever – the camaraderie in the face of tiredness and the laughs when faced difficulty will act as a reminder that there’s enjoyment to be found in climbing mountains, whatever form the mountains take.

The view from the top, the beauty after you’ve conquered the challenge – unparalleled. No description can do it justice. Perhaps these images will convey it a little better.

48 49 MATTHEW CLIFFORD tells us all about this year’s interrupted erasmus project, and his hope that the project continues in some form in the future. or the third year in a row, the Math On Thursday the 12th of December we left the F school was lucky enough to participate school gates and headed to Luton airport. After in the Erasmus project - a renowned the short flight to Dortmund and train journey university level program funded by the EU. to Rheine, we were warmly welcomed by our German exchange partners. We all separated Within this project we worked with many students from our English peers and spent the evening with of different nationalities, learning and bonding our German hosts. with them while completing the project on gender The following day, we were welcomed to the equality. school which commenced with a tour around This year is the second year of a two year project the large school. Following this, Angel and I on gender equality, in which we were responsible presented our school and Rochester to the in helping to put together a booklet on gender German students, highlighting the differences equality that would be distributed across EU such as uniform and girls only attending for sixth schools. However, this year two students (Luca form. After the presentation, we took part in ice Giacometti and I, Matthew Clifford) and two breaking activities to get to know each other and teachers (Mrs Bowes-Read and Mr Alderman) played games themed to gender equality. first travelled to Helsinki Finland. On the Saturday, we woke up early and met at the From the 6th to the 10th of October 2019, along station at 8:15 then travelled to Munster. This was with two Italian, two French, two German and eight the first day of project work; we split into groups Finnish students, we summarised the previous and walked round the beautiful town identifying year and planned for the year ahead. and picturing examples of gender stereotypes. Despite only being in Finland for four days, a lot Before leaving the town, we walked around the occurred, including a sauna visit, ice-breaking Christmas market. activities, project planning and learning about The next day was a Sunday, during which we steps made by Finland to improve gender equality. spent the first half of the day doing project work; We also presented our school and the differences we created mini cartoons to be included in the considering we are an all-boys school. booklet. After the long day of project work, we The students representing the UK our school in attended a Mongolian restaurant before going this year’s project were Luca Giacometti, Katie bowling. Bourner, Jodie Hofford, Aiden Jahani, Ethan For the next two days we continued our project Bacon, Angel Olayinka, Davide Hoxhaj and Ryan work, this time creating board games which Day, Luca Clarke, Thomas Ribbens in year 10. incorporated facts on gender equality that would

50 be easy to play in classrooms across the EU. Our final evening on Thursday, included a farewell party at the school where we made cookies before heading to one of the German’s house for our final evening together. Our flight home was early the next morning at 7am. From the 11th to 17th of January 2020, a lovely group of Finnish students stayed with us to complete our school’s part of the project. Our job over the week was to create an advert for a product that promoted gender equality. The week was an extremely busy one, during which we visited London and showed the sites, went to Canterbury to picture gender in advertising and many other activities. Overall, the Erasmus project was very enriching and we made life-long friends through the project. By learning about gender issues across Europe, we have contributed to creating the handbook for Equal Rights. Sadly, the completion for all countries has been delayed due to COVID-19. I hope that other students in our school will get to experience this amazing project in the future.

51 Making DRAMA without a CRISIS ANDREW MARKE AND HARRY KNOX REVIEW THE YEAR IN DRAMA

rama at The Math had a great start with different sort of hero, a police officer. From this D our Christmas production of ‘Scrooge’s performance through and their own scripted piece Christmas’, an adaptation of Dickens’ ‘A Christmas the four students who performed it achieved a Carol’. This one act play was a joy to be a part of, group grade of a distinction. This was the same everyone involved is extremely talented. overall grade as previous years, but at a higher score showing the improvement of the academy The best part about doing shows like these is that over the years. we have a wonderful director in Mrs Shand who Though only four of the students took part in the tries her very best to get everyone involved, with performance aspect of the qualification, thanks even the younger years having the opportunity to must also go to all those who attended Drama have their say and put ideas forward that could Academy sessions this year, as well as, Mrs greatly influence the show. This show was no Shand and Holly for their help in the creation different, with key roles being filled by awide and rehearsal of the devised script, and for range of age groups, allowing everyone to show the opportunity to gain a qualification from the off their talent. meetings. The Academy sessions were a time for ‘Scrooge’s Christmas’ may not have the epic each of the students who attended to explore their scale of previous shows like ‘Les Misérables’ but hobby of performance and learn more about the the classic story succeeds by being a story for arts and themselves at the same time. everyone to enjoy; it’s happy ending was a perfect We would like to thank everyone who has made way to start the Christmas period and was a great drama as amazing as possible. Doing these way to end 2019 as well as being an amazing start shows has been easily the best part of our time for Drama this academic year. at The Math and we are going to miss being part Just as with previous years the Drama Academy, of such a fantastic group. We would also like to a collection of Sixth Formers in Years 12 and 13, thank Mrs Graham for helping us out during the performed a piece to achieve a group LAMDA musicals and putting together a wonderful band qualification. Unlike previous years, however, they every time without fail. Furthermore, we would like decided to create their own script and perform it, to thank Miss Miller for being a wonderful Assistant rather than use a pre-existing script. As a group Director as well as Mr Baldwin for being in charge they created characters and a story of an aspiring of our backstage crew. We would also like to thank actor struggling to achieve his dream. They spent Holly for running LAMDA and coaching us to be a couple of months writing and practicing their better actors. Finally we must thank Mrs Shand, piece. who without the shows would not be possible, The four students performed their piece in front thank you for putting on the best possible shows. of a LAMDA examiner as well as being given time We wish the best of luck to Abigail Ellerington and to perform an improvised scene. The word they Arina Grosu who will be taking over as the Drama were given was ‘cape’ and the students produced Prefects next year and we hope that drama at The a performance about a boy who ran around in a Math has a long and successful future. cape wanting to be a hero. He was ridiculed but because of the advice of a teacher he became a 52 53 Hospital Haberdashery MRS HILL HAS SPENT MUCH OF HER TIME DURING LOCKDOWN MAKING MEDICAL ScRUBS FOR MEDWAY HOSPITAL. n March, a friend who works at Medway Hospital scrubs, isolation gowns for the patients, and fabric I as a pharmacist, expressed concern to Mrs Hill bags for the doctors and nurses to put the scrubs about the limited sets of medical scrubs available in, to launder. When we ran out of fabric, we sewed for those not in COVID-19 wards. Soon after using poly-cotton duvet covers that volunteers this, Mrs Hill heard an interview on the radio with donated. The flowery and colourful ones went a hospital nurse who was setting up a group to to the children’s wards! Everyone involved was manufacture scrubs, as her hospital was also extremely generous with time, money and fund desperately short of gowns for COVID-19 wards. The nurse had set up a group on Facebook, and it was via this that Mrs Hill found a local group called Medway Scrubbers. As Mrs Hill studied fashion and textiles at Art college, she immediately volunteered to help them.

Purchasing her own patterns and fabric and working from, Mrs Hill set about developing a production line to produce medical scrubs from scratch. The image to the right shows her daughter modelling one of the first gowns Mrs Hill produced. Mrs Hill said, “It takes about four hours to cut and sew up a top and trousers for a full set of scrubs, properly. They have to be robust, to withstand washing at high temperatures and sewn to a standard that will last. Patient isolation gowns are much quicker, I could run up four in about 8 hours, but they needed to have labels sewn into seams where they would not rub and cause sores. My husband helped cut out, and my daughter overlocked seams and made size labels for them. Over the course of just over two months, I made about 40 sets of scrubs and many more isolation gowns.” raising.” By April, Medway Scrubbers had established By mid-May, the Medway Scrubbers group had good links at the Medway Hospital, with volunteer grown to about 650 people as the initial shortages delivery drivers. Demand was very high across were beginning to pass. However, Medway the whole country. Scrubbers are still producing scrubs for Doctor’s Mrs Hill continued, “We were inundated with surgeries, dentists, and care home workers to requests for the Covid and support wards, for support these vital services. 54 Music Notes he Carol service was the first major event started almost as soon as the school year began. T in the school calendar to feature the Music The standards of the judges, Mr Watson, Mr Department, with the School Choir singing Bailey and Mr Brightman were extremely high. multiple hymns, and the wind band, flute group The results were as follows: (out of 150 points) and a Lower School band each performing their 1st Pitt – 137 own pieces. The Carol Service is especially 2nd Tower – 136 important since a large portion of the Choir is 3rd Thetford – 133 comprised of new Year 7’s, who would have 4th Gordon – 131 been at The Math for less than five months. 5th Castle – 124 6th Bridge – 123 7th River – 122 The Sixth Form showcase was also a pleasure to watch, bringing together all the talent across the Sixth Form to provide a blissful evening to everyone. With COVID-19 bringing this school year to an early close, the showcase was the last concert for a fair few of the students and we would like to say thank-you to them for their continued support, performing in almost every concert since they joined the school in Year 7. We as a collective group of musicians would House Music this year was one of the most like to say thank-you to Mrs Graham, who has competitive and awe-inspiring events across the provided support to every music project that we years, with every single house showing incredible have put together and none of this would be talent, with the scores being so nail-bitingly close. possible without her. House Music commenced on January 30th, but Nelson Rebelo 13River for most of the musicians in the competition, Senior Prefect especially those in Sixth Form, this competition

55 r Clive Heather joined the school in January 1989. Since that time, Clive has been a dependable and M ever present face at The Math. He has taught rugby to every Year 7 cohort and engendered a live long love of that sport in many. He has also taken on the challenging role of Head of Middle School. Often thankless, never easy, but one of the most important roles in the school. Throughout his time as Head of Middle School he has maintained both an infectious smile and also a really focused expectation of what the pupils can do and should do.

Educationally I have always found Mr Heather to be far more than he lets on. It would be easy to fall for the happy-go-lucky, cheery PE teacher vibe that he gives off, but alongside this is a determination that pupils will conduct themselves in the right way at the right times, built on a real integrity of purpose, which has proved to be of huge advantage to generations of both pupils and staff through the school. Mr Heather in many ways embodies the traditional values that underpin how we operate as a school. His 31 years of service show that Mr Heather and The Math have been a perfect fit. To recognise this, I have presented him, on the occasion of his retirement, with The Math school flag, the only one of its kind and part of the historical memory of our school, just like him. We are all enormously grateful for his steadfastness and wise counsel, and wish him well for the future.

Mr Hodges Headteacher

BACKGROUND ongoing development. Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical Clearly not all those connected with the school will want to make School enjoys superb facilities a contribution, but for those that do we are suggesting 3 levels of that are significantly beyond donation: what would normally be possible Gold Level - £20 per month through state funding alone. The original bequest from Sir Joseph Williamson is still carefully Silver Level - £10 per month managed by the School’s Trustees which has allowed Bronze Level - £5 per month them to support a wide range of developments in recent years. However, donors are also free to select their own amount. WHAT IS THE 1701 SOCIETY? In return for their donation donors will receive membership of the 1701 The 1701 Society is a group of individuals who have an affinity with Society and to indicate this they will receive a specially commissioned Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School and are prepared to tie and an invitation to a range of school events and tours. support it with a regular financial donation. WHO CAN JOIN? More details can be found on the school website Anyone who holds the school in sufficient regard to make a regular donation in order to support the current pupils and the school’s www.sjwms.org.uk