The Silhillian 2019

P E I A R S T E V E R A N P E I A R S T E V E R A N

Solihull c1936 THE SILHILLIAN 1 Welcome to the new look Silhillian From the Chairman of the OSA Committee, Barry Allen (Windsor 1968-1975)

At school, I always seemed to be answering exam questions on the topic of “revolution or evolution?”

The production of this Silhillian magazine in conjunction with the school’s Development and Old Silhillians’ Office might seem like a revolution, but it is really a natural evolution of the Association’s relationship with the school. We are indebted to the school for the increasing energy which is being put into widening contacts within the Old Silhillian community and between Old Silhillians and the school. That can only make us a more inclusive organization – to the benefit of a much wider group – and it is reflected in the varied content of this magazine.

Enjoy it, and please provide feedback on what you would like to see in future editions.

Ultimately, we all share a common – perhaps short, but often very significant – period in our lives. The Association exists to maintain links between us and to help, where we can, the pupils to face a challenging world. Please get involved if you are able to. Barry Allen (Windsor 1968-1975). Finally, we are looking forward to our centenary in 2021. That will be a special year in the history of the Association.

Barry Allen, Chairman of the OSA Committee

Barry’s first year in the 1st XV during the 1972/73 season 2 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 3 The President’s Letter Contents OSA President 2019 Simon Griffiths (Pole 1990-1998) Regulars Features 1 The Chairman’s Welcome 10 The Retiring Malcolm Lawrie A warm welcome from Barry Allen to the new look Silhillian Reflections on the previous editor and his nineteen years I am pleased to report that my year as President has 2 The President’s Letter in post Retiring president Simon Griffiths looks back on his year 27 Alumni Memories been as varied and enjoyable as I had hoped. in office David Roberts looks back on his school days 4 The Headmaster’s Report 29 Solihull in the ’60s David Lloyd on news from the school Jonathan Wearing wonders if it ever swung First, a thank you to the clubs and societies that have extended 12 Retiring Staff 30 From Solihull to the Far East such a warm welcome to me over the course of the year. It has Thank you and goodbye to staff leaving the school Hugh Peyman’s journey to becoming a world expert been a great privilege to represent the alumni at these events 23 OSA Trust Update on China and to report back on the activities of the Old Silhillians. With an update from the Shenstonian Lodge 33 Life After May 24 Thank you Alumni Ed de Minckwitz on a turbulent year in No 10 Gratitude to former pupils for volunteering in school 34 The Auster Cricket Match Similarly, my gratitude goes to the Thirty-six years of a family and friends summer fixture school for the many opportunities to 28 Alumni News attend and participate in Solihull life. 36 Celebrating Silhillian Families 38 The Alumna Interview Despite my loyalty to Harry Rickman’s Three generations of The Levengers Current pupil Georgie Hart talks to award winning Sixth Form musicals in Big School, one TV Producer Karen Steyn 44 Past OSA Presidents could not help but be blown away by the 40 A Sense of Purpose spectacle and professionalism of Made in 55 Births, Engagements and Marriages Fleet Street Editor Ian MacGregor returns to school for Dagenham, whilst performing a reading News of alumni’s life events Speeches at the Nine Lessons and Carols will 56 In Memoriam remain a memory to cherish. 42 In Conversation with… Obituaries of staff and alumni Guy Cuthbertson talks to former teacher and recipient of the Croix de Guerre, John Jammes The formation of the Old Silhillians and Alumni Committee, and my involvement Updates 54 The Dubai Rugby 7’s with it, has been one of the most Solihull School Greyhounds 7’s interesting parts of my year. It was a 6 Meet the Team 61 The Silhillian Fund logical step that the school and the Old The staff of the Development and Old Silhillians Office What it is, what it does and how you can help future Silhillians, having worked with each other 7 The OSA President Elect generations thrive at Solihull for so long, should amalgamate in this Peter Earl looks forward to his coming year in office way. United by our common interest in ensuring the school community extends 8 News from the Bursary beyond those days spent at Solihull, A campus update from Richard Bate Old Silhillians Association Limited Officers this combined approach is set to reap 14 Alumni Events benefits for the school and the alumni for Catch up on all the events this year and Committee for 2019 years to come. 22 Forthcoming Events President: Simon Griffiths Yet, if you will indulge me, my happiest Dates for your diary and proudest moment at Solihull this 26 Careers President Elect: Peter Earl year was not in my capacity as President. Rhian Chillcott explains how you can help current pupils This September, twenty years (well, Immediate Past President: Jamie Clapham 45 Solihull School Community twenty-one in my case) since my wife Stay in touch online and reconnect with school and and I walked out of Solihull as pupils, Chairman: Barry Allen your friends we walked back in with our eldest as Treasurer: Steve Urry he started his first day in J1. He will 46 The Merger journey through the school as it goes Chairman of Governors, Mark Hopton explains our future Secretary: Peter Davies through one of the most exciting times with Saint Martin’s in its history. Like you, I look forward to 48 This Sporting Life Facilities Director: Max Levenger welcoming him to the alumni, and seeing News of some of our alumni who are forging ahead in their Communications Director: Harry Morgan how much they have developed, when sporting careers he joins them in eleven years. 50 News from the Club House Headmaster: David Lloyd Peter Davies on the Memorial Clubhouse and Grounds General members: Simon Westwood, Rupert Young, 51 Sports Clubs John Harrison, Laurence White, Graham Loader, Dan Super, Reports from John Harrison and Martyn Hurdley Peter Earl, Aoife Mannion Simon and his wife Amy (née Harris, Pole 1997-1999) with their son Harry 4 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 5

I would like to offer my most grateful thanks to Malcolm Lawrie for almost two decades of service to the Silhillian magazine and the management of the OSA. Editing the magazine for The Headmaster’s report nineteen years was a true labour of love, demonstrating Malcolm’s unquestionable dedication to the school community. David EJJ Lloyd, Headmaster

September 2019 will go down in the school’s history as a most significant date – one to rival the admission of girls into the Sixth Form in 1973 and throughout the school in 2005.

Following considerable research, for staff, with over 70 teachers and discussion and professional advice, support staff qualified, and Wellbeing we took the decision to merge with and Personal Development. We fully Saint Martin’s School, with the new intend to maintain strong momentum in combined school opening its doors for this crucial area. One of our three aims the first time in September 2020. This is “community,” and maintaining a sense is a very exciting change: together we of family and exemplary levels of care hope to create the region’s leading 3-18 remain our uppermost concerns. It is coeducational day school. my belief that the best of two historic and successful schools will combine to So, what will the school look like in offer an outstanding education to current approximately twelve months’ time? pupils and to those in the future. My strong expectation is that the school, called Solihull and with me as In all of this we recognise that change its Headmaster, will begin with about of this magnitude will be challenging. 1,500 pupils split across two sites. There will be stumbling blocks and Infants and juniors will be based on the questions, moments of rethinking and Saint Martin’s Campus and seniors here learning. Sometimes it will be stressful on the Warwick Road Campus. Day and sometimes we will struggle, but it care provision will also be a feature of will also be exciting and our legacy will the new school. It will encompass the be the school we create. It will bring new ethos, values, traditions and Christian conversations and new ways of working, foundations of both the existing schools, it will make us ask questions we haven’t and we have a unique opportunity previously considered, and we will to broaden the curriculum and co- become even better and even stronger curriculum by combining the best of with a school that stands front and centre both. I anticipate increased opportunities in the West Midlands region. for pupils and staff and a school to be immensely proud of. In changing times, and with the economic, political and educational Our academic and pastoral priorities will landscape increasingly uncertain, it is not change. Thus far, we have invested my hope that this merger will secure the heavily in school nursing, counselling, future of the new school for the next 460 Mental Health Youth First Aid training years.

Welcome to the 2019 edition of The Silhillian, now produced by the school’s Development and Old Silhillians’ Office. Along with support from the Old Silhillians’ Association, Lucy Lunt and the team are hoping to connect with more alumni than ever before through the new Solihull School Community site at https://alumni.solsch.org.uk. More information about this can be found on page 45. Please do sign up: you’ll find it a much easier way of keeping in touch with us and with each other. 6 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 7 Meet the team A letter from the It is a real strength of Solihull School that so many former pupils maintain close links with us. President Elect Dear Old Silhillians, It is the role of the Development and Old Silhillians’ Office (DOSO) to nurture and enhance these connections while keeping the When the current President, Simon Griffiths, recently asked aims of the school at the centre of all we do. We know we have me if I would consider becoming President Elect of the OSA, a truly privileged position; we celebrate all that the school and its my response was, “Are you being serious?” Following further pupils have achieved in the past, but also look to the future to discussion, I confirmed that I would be delighted, honoured and ensure its long-term success. privileged to accept his invitation.

As Director of the Development Office, brings to the job. She is ably assisted Denis Tomlin as the School Archivist. He My first Form Master was Phil Holt for an event they would like to see in my role is to work with the senior in our event planning and research by ensures we always use the most relevant and I was deeply saddened to hear our centenary year, please do contact leadership team and the OSA to define Debbie Lloyd, who also plays a vital and fitting historical images for reunions of his recent death. Keith Sach was a member of the OSA committee. It the school’s strategy for engaging with role in ensuring that full details of over and publications, and he’s been very instrumental in me becoming a qualified would also be apt that we may very well former pupils, their parents and former 6,000 of you are kept up to date. busy of late! lifeguard and I remember him with thanks welcome the first Saint Martin’s School staff. I’m also responsible for the school’s To that end we hope you will join the and affection. leavers from Solihull into the OSA! fundraising strategy – not least boosting Solihull School Community at I feel truly lucky to work with such a great donations for school priorities, particularly https://alumni.solsch.org.uk – it’s a great team, and truly grateful for all the support Sport at school on Wednesday I look forward to meeting as many of bursaries. way to keep in touch with us and with we receive from the OSA committee afternoons gave me my first introduction you as possible throughout 2020 and to each other. and the governing body. Taking over to the OSA grounds. After leaving school, working with the Headmaster and the My arrival at Solihull School was actually This year we have had another highly the magazine from Malcolm Lawrie I played squash at the Old Silhillians. DOSO in a unique year in the history of two years later than it should have been. successful calendar of alumni events, A highly valued and venerated member has been a daunting task. It’s not easy, In more recent years, I joined the Golf Solihull. When I passed the 11+ entrance exam celebrations and reunions. These are of the team is, of course, John Loynton. and I am grateful to the Headmaster Society and have recently acquired the there was, at that time, a mileage radius brilliantly organised by Lynn Moseley. Further on in the magazine you will for hiding his mirth when six months role of Old Silhillians Golfing Society With best wishes, that pupils had to live within. Our house The affection in which she is held by discover that he is not quite as youthful ago I breezily suggested this might Secretary/Treasurer. was situated outside the boundary. My alumni and staff is a testament to the as he looks. Having retired from teaching be a biannual publication. I have been Peter Earl parents were determined people and energy, commitment and patience she History, he took over from the wonderful sustained, supported and assisted in With the OSA centenary coming up (Jago 1972-1975) moved from Sutton Coldfield to Solihull. this endeavour by Ian Nichol (Shenstone in 2021, I see the main role of my After sitting a further entrance exam, I 1968-1974) who has been the most presidency being to continue with the eventually became a Solihull School pupil assiduous, painstaking and patient proof- planning of this very special anniversary. at the age of thirteen. reader; he has my sincerest thanks and Should any member have any ideas deepest admiration. And thank you to all those who have freely contributed to the magazine and to all those who have been coerced into it. I hope you will do it again next year!

Lucy Lunt Come and join us... Director of Development and Alumni Relations For only £30 membership fee per annum there is the opportunity to represent the Old Silhillians Golf Society in 7 matches against local Golf Clubs and other Old Boys Associations.

In addition the Society holds 6 competitions annually - incorporating AG Bragg Trophy, Challenge Cup, Wiseman Cup, AM-AM, Captains Away Day and December Vase - with a nominal match fee to include a meal.

Contact: Martin Hurdley - Captain - T: 07802 154829 [email protected] Lucy Lunt, Director of Development and Alumni Relations. Lynn Moseley, Development or and Old Silhillians’ Office Assistant. Debbie Peter Earl - Secretary - T: 07850 479246 Lloyd, Development and Old Silhillians’ Office [email protected] Adminstrator. John Loynton, Archivist.

2821 Old Silhillians Advert Landscape.indd 1 02/10/2019 09:32 8 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 9

Miss Kate Keeling serving lunch to the boys in 1975. Kate came to Solihull School on the 1st September 1939 and served as Head Cook in the Refectory, which was then situated in School House. Kate lived in School House catering for 230 boys and staff, 50 of whom were boarders. She ran a tight ship, believing in excellence of service, good manners and respect. In 1970 Kate supervised the transfer to the new (and present Refectory) the specifications of which were agreed in consultation with her. In 1983, Kate’s long time of selfless dedication to the school came to an News from the Bursary end and she enjoyed a happy retirement until her death in 2011, aged 89. The new refectory

Visual of the new servery

Napoleon Bonaparte realised that “an army marches on its stomach.” It has not been lost on every Headmaster over the last 460 years that it is the same story at a school.

The kitchen and dining room were Waste generated – both during food last updated in a significant way in the production and after service has taken late 1960s, though there have been place – will be collated, dehydrated redecorations on a few occasions since and then shipped to a recycling plant then. Recent increases in pupil numbers, for animal feed and similar processes. Patrick Derham in the newly refurbished together with a growing realisation that Eventually, we hope to be able to recycle Refectory in 1998 healthy eating is a vital component of the this waste product within the school school day, led the school to determine grounds themselves. that a major reshaping of the facility was required. As a result, over the recent This environmentally driven activity is just summer holiday and extending into the one example of the efforts of the school first part of this term, a major reworking to “go green.” Inspired by both staff and of both back and front of house has pupils, recent changes have included: been undertaken. Within the kitchen, new cooking facilities are being installed. • The removal of single use plastic Richard Bate At the front, the servery area has been throughout the school opened up to improve circulation space • Installation of 174 solar panels on the On an average day, the catering team will and allow for an even greater range of roof of the George Hill Building food choices. A new dishwasher with serve around 100 breakfasts and over • Expanded recycling of many a conveyer belt system has also been 1,100 lunches, meet the needs of 200 materials throughout the school eager tuck shop visitors, and service a installed to the Masters’ Lawn side of • All energy purchases coming from range of hospitality activities from sports the building to improve the flow of users renewable sources match teas to canapés at Speeches. through the busy lunch period. Thus the food operation at the school Further initiatives are planned in this vitally is a significant one, and the kitchen and The new dishwasher also comes with a important area. refectory represent facilities used by all of facility to manage food waste in a much the school community. more environmentally friendly way than previously. Richard Bate The Bursar The Refectory 1974 10 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 11

What is the greatest change you’ve There were several occasions where an seen amongst the Old Sils? Old Silhillian in some remote part of the world would read an article by another In conversation with.... Without doubt, it is their geographical who was a school friend they had lost diversity. In the sixties and seventies, touch with and now lived nearby. When I many of us drifted back to the Midlands say “nearby”, I mean within 1,000 miles! after university to work in the family They would ask to be put in touch, and business, for a friend of the family or I or the Development and Old Silhillians’ Retiring Editor, another Old Silhillian. Now, not only do Office would duly oblige. The delight of former pupils seek employment all over receiving a piece from the two long lost the country, they are to be found all over friends accompanied by a photo of their the world. reunion for inclusion in the next issue knew no bounds. Malcolm Lawrie You’ve been Editor through the reign of four headmasters. Who was your Your highlight of being Editor? favourite? I felt very honoured to be invited to the He explains to Lucy Lunt the secrets of his Now that’s a little unfair! However, it OSA Past Presidents’ Dinner on two At the Ball with daughter Alex would be fair to say that I do enjoy the occasions. Amongst their number are long-standing success as Editor of The Silhillian. occasional beer and a curry with the some of the nicest people I have had the What’s the most challenging part of present incumbent. David Lloyd has been privilege to know. being Editor? a fantastic supporter of the OSA and not scared to ‘tick us off’ when we have got It would have been great to have Past Editors of The Silhillian averaged Getting the copy in on time was probably it wrong. I greatly admire the direction managed twenty years as Editor, but that two or three editions, and quite the hardest part – that and the use of the that he and the Chairman of Governors, was not to be. a few only managed one. Many blue pencil where some contributors had Mark Hopton, have led the School in. congratulations on your staying exceeded their allotted amount of words. David revels in reminding Peter Thomas How are you going to spend all this power! How did you do it? and me that we would probably not free time you now have? The other challenging facet of the post have got into Solihull School now. He’s The cynics would say that it was because was always being on duty at events and probably right. That said, I still disagree What free time? Early last year I stupidly I could not find anyone daft enough to expected to take photos. It wasn’t until with him about the School not being agreed to take on extra responsibility take over from me! Seriously though, I later in the evenings that I could fully spelt with a capital “S” when referring to at work, and hence an extra workload. loved it. It was great to correspond with relax. This often – well, nearly always Solihull. There we will have to differ. It was even more stupid at a point in so many Old Silhillians and share the – resulted in me waking up the next my career when retirement beckoned. I camaraderie that most of us thoroughly morning wondering where I had left my What was the most surprising story struggled with time (and still do), and as enjoy. I also found great satisfaction in camera and whether any of the photos you heard from a former pupil? a result stepped down as Editor after the taking the various contributions and were out of focus. 2018 edition of The Silhillian came out. laying them up to produce the finished Most of those could not be printed for magazine. Prior to my editorship the lay- It was not just The Silhillian that the fear of litigation or those involved being up was done by the printers. Editor was responsible for. I also kept arrested for past crimes! the website up to date and managed the OSA’s social media. All in all, it was a lot to do as a volunteer. That and a considerable level of involvement in the Hockey Club certainly had a huge impact on my personal life.

Why is the magazine so important to Past Editors alumni? Bernard Owens (1950, 53-55) John Woolman (1977-79) Most communication is now electronic, whether it be through email, social media Brian Coghlan (1951-52) Simon Wilcox (1980-82) or articles and publications that can be downloaded from the Internet. However, Arthur Upton (1956-60, 63) Martin Cotter (1983-85) the eager anticipation that Old Silhillians of a certain age experience as they wait Robin Cooper (1961-62) David Gilbert (1986-87) for the rattle of the letterbox when the envelope containing the magazine and its Mike Cusack & Mike Callaghan (1964) Robert Chetland (1988-89) associated inserts arrives would be very much missed if The Silhillian were not to Mike Cusack (1965-67) Reg Instone (1990-91) be published in a paper format. Brian Knight (1968-71) Richard Graves (1992-94) I only saw printed A4 proofs or a PDF of Geoff Herne (1972-74) Claude Coton (1995-99) the magazine before it went to print, and only viewed the finished product when it Nick Atkinson (1975-76) Malcolm Lawrie (2000-18) landed on my doormat. Even I could not wait to see it! 12 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 13 Fair-well to Lisa And farewell and thank you to: As we say goodbye to Lisa Fair after thirty years, some of her former pupils who became actors pay tribute to her. One of the reasons I decided to go to Solihull was because of the reputation of the drama department. So, even Lisa joined Solihull School from Park Hall School in 1988 and before arriving, Lisa Fair’s work and creativity preceded her. One of my never looked back, making a simply massive contribution to main memories of her was the day of our community, both in and outside the classroom, over 31 my AS Level Drama exam. I’d had a years of outstanding service. She has been a first-rate teacher drama school audition the day before of English and Drama, equally at home with the less confident and my driving test that morning (which I failed!) I arrived at the Bushell and the most able. Hall in a bit of a state with less than two hours before our practical exam Some of Lisa’s finest hours have been demonstrating a compassion that started. Lisa pulled me to one side spent directing and producing over few could match. and gave me the pep talk I needed. MICHAEL SMITH ANN BLAKE 40 shows and plays of outstanding She encouraged me in my abilities quality. Beyond that, she led the Sixth Colleagues, young and old, respect as a performer and gave me the Michael came to Solihull in 2003 Ann joined the Bursary team in Form expertly for a number of years, Lisa, her views and her counsel. The confidence to do my best. I’ll never as Head of Physics. As a teacher December 2005 and has been a vital demonstrating a real understanding following alumni, all of whom have forget that. Michael has always had the highest cog in this busy machine ever since. of the 16- to 18-year-old student. become professional actors, testify to expectations of his pupils, and many As cashier and accounts assistant, Lisa’s time as Assistant Head, looking the way in which she has, over many Emma Woods (née Hubble) times they have exceeded their own her quiet efficiency was invaluable and after all safeguarding issues, has years, been an inspiration, confidante (Windsor 2005-2007) expectations in public exams because of welcomed by all. She was immensely been characterised by wise decision- and friend. his thoroughness and the high quality of popular with all her colleagues, both making, commitment, calmness and his teaching. As a Head of Department, teaching and non-teaching, probably care, dealing with the worst situations Sean Morgan I know that many colleagues have because her calm and friendly personality judiciously and without fuss, while Senior Deputy Head benefitted from his leadership and have shone through, whatever unexpected progressed as teachers of Physics under query might arise. Ann always exhibited his guidance. meticulous accuracy, a result of the bank Back in 1988, Lisa’s arrival came training of her early career. You knew that as a breath of fresh air. If she was Michael is very proud of his family if you asked Ann, it would get sorted. remotely daunted by an intensively male and enjoys the successes of both his She will be sorely missed. environment, she never showed it. From daughter Hannah (an Old Silhillian) and the outset, it was clear she was a force his son Ben. Hannah’s health issues have Richard Bate to be reckoned with. She combined meant that she has taken longer than those attributes possessed by all the usual to complete her undergraduate best teachers: she was kind, caring, a From the minute that I met Mrs Fair, studies in Physics, but she has now great laugh but also, crucially, you knew she exuded warmth. Whether you been offered a prestigious postgraduate not to mess with her. And although I was were a drama geek (guilty!), just place at Oxford. I know that Michael is We also say goodbye to: not personally affected by her breezy turning your hand to a show for the very much looking forward to being able glamour, which apparently distracted first time or a reluctant participant in to support her when the family moves Don Ashford 2005 - 2019 not only students but also some of the a drama class, she was more than to Kidlington near Oxford upon his male staff, a recent conversation with my Richard Atkinson 2007 - 2018 happy to have you in the room. Having retirement. Michael retires with the very younger brother revealed that I was very best of wishes from all at Solihull. now taught singing, dance and drama Lee Harris 2009 - 2019 much in the minority. myself, I know this is not a natural quality for all teachers! You couldn’t Andrew Jones Stephanie Rasmussen 2013 - 2018 At the time, drama was relegated to the help but gain confidence in yourself via Upper and Middle School plays and the osmosis because of the confidence Liam Worth 2014 - 2019 school “opera”. Lisa set about changing Lisa Fair put into you. Her love for her that, introducing drama to the curriculum Lindsay Browning 2016 - 2019 work and care for her pupils shone for the first time, and I was fortunate through in class and in rehearsal. Sophie Lodge 2016 - 2019 enough to be in the inaugural intake for Thank you, Mrs Fair, for everything the GCSE Drama that she taught. you’ve done for so many pupils. Hilary Grady 2018 - 2019 Ian Hallard Crystal Wilkins 2018 - 2019 Jess Singer (Fetherston 1986-1993) (Shenston 2008-2010) 14 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 15 Alumni Events One of the greatest pleasures of running the Alumni Office this year has been welcoming back so many former pupils, many of whom had not returned since the day they collected their A level results decades ago. Reunion of the Class of 1984

When the Class of 1984 were reunited in March 2019, thanks to the efforts of Jane Ghali (née Palmer, Pole 1982-1984), they were amazed to see how much had changed in thirty-five years and how youthful senior staff had become! They enjoyed reminiscing about old times and being led on a conducted tour of the campus by the Headmaster, David Lloyd, and the Senior Deputy Headmaster, Sean Morgan. While enjoying afternoon tea, they admired the view from the top of the Cooper Building before heading off for an Reunion of the evening at the Silhillians Sports Club. Class of 1984 16 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 17 Reunion of the Class of 1979 and 1989 Over 60s tour of the school Our Over 60s Luncheon Group joined us for a tour of the school before heading off to the Silhillians Sports Club for their biannual gathering.

The lunches are for former pupils and staff; the idea, of course, is to offer an opportunity for anyone who is eligible to catch up with old friends who, in some instances, have not seen each other since the day they left over 40 years earlier. The group is always delighted to welcome new members. If you’d like more information please contact The Development and Old Silhillians Office [email protected] and we will pass on your details to the Chairman of the group, Peter Bragg. We are extremely grateful tp Peter and Mike Smith for their continues efforts to keep this event such a popular part of the alumni calendar. 18 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 19 Oxbridge Dinner Welcome Back

In January, Oxbridge former The Headmaster welcomed guests who We hope to move University Dinners Old Silhillians Return to School for a Tour pupils and staff came together had an age range of over fifty years. around the country and hope to hold one They heard an excellent presentation in Leeds and another in Exeter in the next for dinner at the Caledonian from Daniele Harford-Fox about year. This year we have welcomed back the following Old Silhillians for a tour. Club in London. Curriculum 2020, while Ben Perry, a patron of our bursary campaign, October 2018 reminisced about his own school days Glyn Jones (Windsor, 1955-63), Chris and spoke about his commitment to the Ingham (Jago, 1958-63), Steven Hobson Silhillian Fund. (Shenstone, 1955-63) and their wives.

November 2018 Robert Wheeler (Fetherston, 1951-55).

December 2019 Timothy Hertz (Pole, 1998-2005) visiting the UK from Berlin.

May 2019 Peter Silverman (Pole, 1952-62), John Tippetts (Pole, 1951-61), Richard Strickland (Windsor, 1954-61) and their wives back to school.

June 2019 Jonathan Snelling (Windsor, 1977- 84) and his family visiting the UK from Australia.

July 2019 Simon Thorpe (Windsor, 1979-90) and son visiting the UK from Hong Kong.

July 2019 Harsh Thakore (Shenstone, 1980-81) visiting the UK from India.

If you would like to come back to school for a tour and school lunch, please book your visit in advance with Lynn Moseley, Development & Old Silhillians’ Office Assistant on 0121 703

The Headmaster with three of our Patrons of The Silhillian Fund. 2963 or at [email protected] L-R Ben Perry, Caroline Egan, David Lloyd, Jonathan Wearing 20 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 21 Musicals Reunion Other Alumni Events OPENING OF THE GRAHAM A Celebration of School Musicals from 1976 - 2016 HUGHES ROOM

We were delighted to open the Graham Over 130 former pupils, parents and staff returned to celebrate 40 years of the musical at Solihull. Hughes Room in honour of one of They saw a documentary charting its history from the Turnbull and Slaughter days right through the school’s lifelong champions and to Perrins and Fair. The audience then enjoyed an enthusiastic singalong lead by the irrepressible benefactors. Graham joined the school as a pupil in 1954. He was President Stephen Perrins accompanied by the legendary Jill Godsall. of the OSA in 1993 and served as Chairman of Governors for five years. Graham unveiled the plaque in front of his family, friends and school associates. The school is delighted that Graham’s generosity and dedication are now recognised in this way.

ALUMNI RECEPTION before a performance of this year’s school musical, Made in Dagenham.

WINE TASTING IN EAST LONDON

Alumni were warmly welcomed by all the staff at Renegade London Wine, but especially by its founder, Warwick Smith (1994-1998). A great turnout across the generations enjoyed the fruits of his labour.

BIRMINGHAM EVENT

Former pupils from across Birmingham came together with staff to meet at Primitivo Bar in March 2019 for the biannual Birmingham Business Drinks. Alumni enjoyed networking with old friends and making new connections while having the opportunity to catch up on the latest news from the school. 22 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 23 Forthcoming Report on the OSA Trust It is marvellous to report that the work of the Old Silhillians Trust Alumni Events continues to flourish in very difficult economic times. The letters of thanks the Trustees receive academic, sporting, artistic and cultural from these individuals confirm that our – to flourish at Solihull School. I believe FESTIVAL OF NINE LESSONS SCHOOL MUSICAL AND support for them is well founded. that there has never been a more exciting AND CAROLS OLD SILHILLIANS’ DRINKS time to be involved with our work, and RECEPTION While the principal objective of the Trust your foresight as a benefactor today has Date: Sunday 15 December and remains that of providing scholarships to never been more valuable. Thank you Monday 16 December Date: Wednesday 18 March those entering the Sixth Form, we are still once again for your contribution to the Venue: Solihull School Chapel Venue: Solihull School able to offer financial support to students Old Silhillians’ Association Trust. Time: 6.30pm Time: 5.30pm in other ways. This year we have been able to help a Sixth Form student doing a Peter A. Thomas CAREER MENTORS EVENING Northern Uganda Village Health Outreach Chairman OPENING OF THE JILL GODSALL Project (NUV-HOP), enabling her to RECITAL ROOM Date: Friday 24 April spend five weeks there as a medical Venue: Solihull School volunteer prior to her embarking on a The OSA Trust Committee Date: Saturday 25 January Time: 6.30pm career in medicine. We also continue Venue: Solihull School David Turnbull As always, the school remains the to give support to Matthew Vaughan at Barry Allen Music School focus of our attention. We have again the Archery GB Academy: he is a strong Steve Urry Time: 4.00pm REUNION FOR THE GIRLS been able to provide a number of contender for the British Olympic Archery Simon Griffiths team. OF 1980 scholarships to pupils entering the Sixth Peter Davies Form in recognition of their outstanding Peter Thomas SILENT MOVIE WITH ORGANIST Date: Saturday 2 May Philanthropy is vital to the work of the contribution to the wider life of the Richard Jerrom DAVID BRIGGS (SHENSTONE Venue: Solihull School school, both curricular and co-curricular. Trust. Your gifts allow talent of all kinds – 1974-81) Time: 3.00pm

Date: Tuesday 11 February Venue: Solihull School Chapel OVER 60S LUNCH Time: 7.00pm Date: Thursday 14 May Venue: Silhillians Sports Club CHORAL EVENSONG AT ST Time: 12.30pm onwards Report from the PAUL’S CATHEDRAL LONDON AND OLD SILHILLIANS’ DRINKS RECEPTION REUNION CLASS OF 1990 SHENSTONIAN LODGE Date: Saturday 16 May Date: Monday 24 February Shenstonian Lodge NO. 554 Venue: St Paul’s Cathedral and Venue: Solihull School Paternoster Chop House Time: 3.00pm - evening function is being Shenstonian Lodge consists of Freemasons affiliated to the (First Dates Restaurant) organised by Barzan Rahman (Windsor, school. Members are alumni and past or present parents, Time: 5.00pm 1983-90) staff or governors.

Full details of the Lodge can be found at Puneet Taylor to the degree of Master- throughout the year. Various visits were BIRMINGHAM EVENT http://www.shenstonian5544.org.uk, with Mason. In February 2019, we had a made to other Lodges and we especially the history of the Lodge set out in the brief business meeting and then the maintained our links with the Albert Date: Thursday 5 March “more about us” tab. There is a “contact Lodge was opened to our Masonic and Lucking Lodge No. 2717 in Southend- Venue: TBC us” page where you can send e-mails to non-Masonic guests for a “Friends and on-Sea. The Lodge Mentor also arranged Time: 6.00pm our secretary. We try to enjoy ourselves Family” evening. W. Bro John Handley for Bro Puneet Taylor to visit a Lodge in and spread that enjoyment to our visitors, gave an amazing illustrated talk on the Hereford, very close to where he now while raising charitable funds to assist Masonic history behind the creation and lives and works. those less fortunate than ourselves. completion of the Statue of Liberty in Former pupils, staff and parents are all welcome to attend our This is one of the principal tenets of New York Harbour. I had been totally W. Bro Steve Mingo events. Please save the date, more details will be available via Freemasonry. unaware of the part that the Craft of Master Freemasonry played in this endeavour. W. Bro Stuart Jenkins our Solihull School Community website https://alumni.solsch. The 2018-19 season proved interesting Secretary with W. Bro Roger Moore once again Again, we were blessed with good org.uk or contact Lynn Moseley on 0121 703 2963 or at W. Bro Roger Moore taking the Chair of the Lodge. In October turnouts of Lodge members and visitors [email protected] Immediate Past Master 2018, we had the pleasure of raising Bro and enjoyed excellent festive boards 24 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 25

MICHAEL DUCK

Michael Duck QC was kind enough to take time out of his busy schedule as a Thank you criminal barrister and leader of the Birmingham Circuit to speak to Mr Gledhill’s LVI law group about his life and career and he gave some fascinating insights into the world of a criminal barrister advocating in court day-in and day-out.

He was even kind enough to offer additional time to pupils who were especially to our Alumni interested in the barrister route and the possibility of work experience through mini- pupillages in chambers.

PROF ROBERT VILAIN

Thank you to Prof Robert Vilain IZZIE KENT (Shenstone 1976 -1983). Robert is now Professor of German and Comparative Thank you to Izzie Kent (Shenstone 2006 – 2016). She is now a software engineer on Literature at the University of Bristol, Cap Gemini’s apprenticeship programme. Izzie comes into school on an annual basis and also a Lecturer in German at Christ to talk to our sixth form students about alternative post 18 pathways. Church, Oxford. In June he came to talk to our linguists and Oxbridge students “Being able to come back to my school and speak about apprenticeships is something about how to prepare for their interviews. I look forward to every year. It’s incredibly encouraging to see more and more students He now kindly visits on a regular basis. interested in doing an apprenticeship with each visit. I really enjoy being able to share my real life experiences with the students and demonstrate that University isn’t the “It was lovely to meet such committed only option if they do not feel it is right for them.” and inquisitive students and to have the chance to talk through some poetry with a few of them, and to meet some of their teachers. I was immensely impressed with the quality of the new buildings erected in the last years, in particular the Cooper Building and the David Turnbull ED DE MINCKWITZ Music School (I have fond memories of being taught the piano by David and Ed de Minckwitz visited the school on Monday December 3rd 2018 and spoke to by Jill Godsall, and of playing in the our A level Politics and Economics students, and the sixth form and middle school orchestra for the splendid productions scholars. He spoke about his own political career, and his role as a special advisor of opera and musicals led by David and during the Brexit process. Turn to page 33 to read more about Ed’s work in No.10. by Giles Slaughter). The ‘Big Debate’ at the end of the day was a tremendous event, showing the very best of the school’s talent for rational and articulate argument.”

DR MARK READ

Thank you to Dr Mark Read (Windsor 1980 – 1988). Mark is now a Senior Lecturer in Computational Solid State Chemistry at the University of Birmingham and member of The Birmingham Centre for Nuclear Education and Research. Mark returns annually to the school to deliver a ‘hands on’ forensic workshop sponsored by the Royal Society of Chemistry giving Sixth Form chemists practical experience of using a modern analytical Infra Red spectrometer to identify unknown compounds. In July our chemists visited their new undergraduate teaching laboratory to synthesise ‘banana oil’!

“It is lovely to work with such inspiring teachers and enthusiastic pupils and rewarding to provide a variety of outreach opportunities to Solihull. In addition to annual ‘Spectroscopy in a Suitcase’ workshops, pupils visit the University of Birmingham for events such as evening WMCTC lectures and competitions including the RSC ‘Top of the Bench’ and Salters’ Festivals of Chemistry. I was inspired into my industrial and academic scientific career by former masters and these activities provide an excellent way to enthuse the next generation of scientists!” 26 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 27 Careers Alumni Memories Ambition. Opportunity. Community. Joining the school in the middle of the war meant The Careers Department at Solihull encountering an interesting group of characters depends largely on our alumni community. among the staff.

I started in form 3B, where our master was a local Old Silhillians can continue to support students and play an Congregational minister. It was not until 1946 that younger important role in the life of the school by helping them to achieve teachers began to return from wartime duties. their ambition, through providing the opportunity to connect and explore the world of work. In 1947 Mr Thompson retired as Mr Easterling taught us music, while E. Headmaster and Harry Hitchens came Havenden (I only recently discovered the PRACTICE INTERVIEWS AND/OR Old Silhillians themselves also benefit in like a breath of fresh air. He was an “E” stood for Eric) taught history. Known CV ADVICE from the Careers Department. We impressive man: he taught me French for in earlier years as “Bun” because of There are key times when a grilling from offer continued access to independent one year and I remember we all felt that prominent ears, but then simply as “H” an expert is just what is needed to give careers advice to all alumni, and support we knew when he came into the room, when we were in the Sixth Form, he had Solihull students the edge when it comes in times of transition. This service is even if we didn’t see him, such was the a quiet authority and never raised his to securing their desired university place, particularly popular among our younger force of his personality. Less formally, I voice, but was always firmly in control. degree apprenticeship or job. Many Old alumni, many of whom are living proof have a happy memory of him leading a Silhillians have reached that place in that there is no longer a career for life. massive snowball fight. Like many, I was In 1951 I was one of probably the their careers where they are doing the At times of change, the opportunity to shocked and saddened when I learned largest group of Silhillians to go to Bristol hiring; knowing what they are looking for, explore options, perfect applications and of the tragic circumstances of his death University. In 1970 I joined the staff of Rhian Chillcott, Head of Careers, finds and communicating that with students practice interview skills is appreciated. many years later. the then new Open University as Deputy that alumni are often keen to support in a practical way, is a real help to Added to this, our growing number of Regional Director for the South West, current students, but do not necessarily many. Other Old Silhillians have recently professional networks provide a space since when I have continued to live in know how to offer their help. Working qualified and gone through the process for Old Silhillians to form and consolidate North Somerset. I took early retirement closely with Lucy Lunt and her team themselves, and so are able to connect useful contacts, and have some fun too. in 1985 and began 25 years in part- in the Development and Old Silhillians with current students and share their If you are interested in joining one of time and voluntary church work. Once Office, Rhian has established a series of experiences. our professional networks, please let us a week I am a National Trust volunteer ways in which alumni can get involved, know. at Tyntesfield – if you should visit the as best suits them. CAREERS LUNCH EVENTS property on a Monday afternoon, look Current students enjoy hearing from Old Ambition. Opportunity. Community. A out for me! CAREER MENTOR PROGRAMME Silhillians who are working in an area that strong Careers Department really does This role is as big or little as one makes they themselves are considering. When rely on the support of our alumni. We I may have lost touch with the school for it. Some of our alumni enjoy email one considers that most students have have students with bucket loads of many years, but, as I write, on the desk exchanges between students interested only narrow experience of the world of ambition; please help to give them the in front of me is a carved wooden blotter in their specialisms, whilst others prefer work, often via family members, one can best opportunity – as a community, we – a souvenir of one year of woodwork building relationships face to face. see how important it is to enlighten this can move mountains. classes in 1943-1944. So, thank you for Whichever way it is done, students highly next generation as to their many options. stirring these memories. Who knows? value the support of a Career Mentor and One day I may manage to visit the school gain much from it. If you would like to offer your support in again. any of these ways, or indeed in another WORK PLACEMENTS way not mentioned, we would love to David Roberts Having a work experience student hear from you. (Pole 1943-1951) in one’s midst is not without effort. Nonetheless, the support of Old Silhillians here is essential. Without the Rhian Chillcott has been Head of Careers at Solihull since connections that our alumni can give them, many students find it difficult to get September 2018. With over 15 years of wide ranging experience on-the-job experience, which is a vital in the state and independent sectors, Rhian has been impressed part of their planning for their futures. with the willingness of Solihull School alumni to maintain active links with school. Rhian is keen to hear from any Silhillian who would like to explore ways in which they can support the next generation. She can be contacted on ToucanTech, or by email: [email protected] 28 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 29 Alumni News Schooldays of the sixties John Loynton’s 70th birthday It is a commonplace remark that anyone who remembers the “Swinging Sixties” was not there. To celebrate this impending major milestone, a number of John’s friends and former pupils visited Ashridge With the passage of time, fading memory is bound Golf Club near Berkhamsted in late September. Most had enjoyed history to have an effect. School Assembley c.1952. lessons at school with John and – possibly even more so – golf tours with boasted an unconventional front cover him throughout the UK and Ireland. and included quirkily amusing illustrations Many of the attendees see each other at by David Vickerman. At the less avant Old Silhillians Golfing Society matches garde end of the scale, great amusement and at the scratch foursomes trip to the was provided by the production of Juke Grafton Morrish tournament annually in Box Jury, starring Miss Minnie Cooper. Norfolk, where John is on the organising Giving full rein to his inner thespian, the committee as Honorary Secretary. Second Master, Guy King-Reynolds, In the photo, l-r: Stuart Mills (Jago 1977-1986), Barnaby Dowding (Pole 1986-1995), Tony Byron would don a stylish wig and a very (Shenstone 1968-1974), David Fleet (Jago 1978-1987), John Loynton, Damian Kelly (Windsor short and tight mini skirt, his otherwise 1981-1988), Willie Westal (Fetherston 1988-1993) and Max Levenger (Fetherston 1983-1994) august demeanour morphing into that of a glamorous and flirtatious, simpering young lady of batting eyelids and alluring poses. Howls of laughter ensued from Mathew Prichard (Pole 2004-2014) boys of all ages. Could this have been the example that set Neil Megson on the road to becoming Genesis P-Orridge? Mathew’s dancing career continues to In 2017 Mathew joined the National go from strength to strength. On leaving Dance Company Wales, touring both Maybe all we can conclude is that the school he trained at the Rambert School nationally and internationally. In 2019 school moved with the times, individual of Ballet and Contemporary Dance, he received a Master of Arts (MA) in influences being unclear – unless, of where he received his BA with first class Contemporary Dance and joined Marcat course the media figures amongst honours. He has toured throughout the Dance, performing in the world premiere the alumni would like to speak for UK with the Rambert Dance Company R. Moore, T. Halsted, J. Way, R. Ansell (standing), in the old lower Gymnastics, 1950’s. of Anhelo in Seville. However, for those of us at school in those days, reflecting on themselves... and has performed with Goldfrapp on Commonthe cultural Room and (nowcounter-cultural the study of winds the Head that blewof English), through 1955. our lives Later... with Jools Holland and at the Jonathan Wearing Glastonbury Festival. may help to explain how the school produced a disproportionate number of disc jockeys and radio and television presenters. (Fetherston 1964-1970)

The change in regime from Harry the ire and choice words of Regimental Hitchens to Bruce McGowan was Sergeant Major Skippings. Rarely at a perhaps reflected in the modern drama loss for a withering remark, his reaction productions of John Arden’s pacifist to an extravagantly buckled pair of Serjeant Musgrave’s Dance and shoes substituting for army boots was Ionesco’s La Cantatrice Chauve (“The to enquire of the wearer’s “panties and Honour for Bald Soprano”). More traditional drama doubloons.” Dave Vickers, do you still was also well represented, including a bear the scars? Jim Cooper memorable production of The Merchant of Venice featuring Chris Rees and Nick Then, as now, music in its various forms We are delighted that Jim Cooper Blyth. The latter was, for once, without was very much a part of school life. (Fetherston 1962-1968) has been his trademark gobstopper. Amongst the more hip members of the awarded an OBE for his work as a community, Messrs Megson, Hermon volunteer for the Conservative Party. For a school that had, in those days, and Wolfson might be seen toting an Jim said, “People from all parties go out the largest Combined Cadet Force in album by the Velvet Underground or canvassing and campaigning. It’s great Western Command, there were bound arranging “happenings” in town. There that awards like this acknowledge that.” to be clashes with the rapidly developing was an apocryphal story that they youth culture. Drill practice on the Field were contributors to the notorious Oz of Mars accompanied by a blast of the magazine. Did that originate with one of Rolling Stones’ Paint It Black from the them? In 1969, as a reflection of those windows of School House would raise times, even the stately Shenstonian 30 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 31

Tanzania and Kenya filled my mental notebooks. I was ready to expand my Hugh Peyman horizons ever further. Reading Politics, Philosophy and Economics (PPE) at Oxford gave (Windsor 1959 - 1969) reflects on structure to my thinking. The politics of developing countries and development economics were my favourite PPE his journey from Solihull to the Far East. subjects, becoming the foundation for a career in financial journalism with Reuters and the Far Eastern Economic Review and then, for over three decades, heading Asian research for two global financial institutions before setting up my own firm Research-Works: an article of faith I would say. All built on what I had learned at Solihull.

I must credit three teachers in particular. Denis Tomlin taught me to love writing Left to right: Andrew Marr, Tony Hall, Hugh Peyman and his wife Maria Yang Tse Oy, at the launch (and discussion) and demonstrated many of his book China’s Change The Greatest Show on Earth. lessons in life on the rugby field, when he coached the First XV; Dickie Costard inculcated a fascination with history, for ten years helped assemblies pass as perfectly normal, no different from a especially economic history, illuminating quicker by giving rein to my imagination. weekend of climbing in North Wales from what came before and what might come the school’s cottage near Bethesda: only next; and Guy King-Reynolds taught Going to Zambia in 1970, as an I would be away a bit longer, providing geography but in reality rolled out before exchange student after leaving school, another chance to see new places and us the whole world with all its splendours seemed like the most natural thing to things. and variety. His arranging for our do. I had come to know Europe well, production of Othello to play for several for, even before Solihull, I had lived in Zambia opened my eyes even more, not nights at Rome’s Teatro Goldoni over Germany for five years. Camping holidays just the sight of a newly independent Easter 1968 was obvious to him, once throughout western Europe during my country struggling to develop but my he met Italian film director Ugo Tognazzi father’s school holidays programmed sense of right and wrong coming into whose son was boarding at school. me early for something further afield. sharp focus after visits to white-ruled Capitalizing on similar serendipitous Going to Mumbwa Secondary School Rhodesia and apartheid South Africa. chances has characterized my own life. in the middle of central Africa struck me Two months travelling around rural

Every day something new jumps out at me. It might be a casual comment that draws an Hugh with Andrew Williams and Ian Dodds-Smith unexpected conclusion or the sight of a once familiar street bulldozed to make way for the high rise apartments that will eventually house most of the one billion urban Chinese.

Constantly things surprise: it could be fascinating, bewildering but never dull. someone’s reaction to events or their Asked to explain why my life took this life histories, which can be so different turn I realise that Solihull School played from our generally comfortable own. no small part, starting with my first Lower Frequently my long-held ideas are School Speech Day in September 1959. challenged, not by China’s political system but by its traditional philosophy, A latent yearning for far-off travel was which has evolved literally over five fired by the guest of honour David millennia to guide the Chinese through Stratford (Fetherston, Head Boy in life’s trials and tribulations. It is still the 1957) who had spent a year teaching default position for individuals’ thinking in in Sarawak, Malaysia. To most people fast changing China – not Communism. that would have been Borneo, the land of head hunters. Believe it or not, 25 This is what daily life in today’s China years later, I was up a river in Kuching, means. I have lived in Shanghai for more Sarawak where, putting our long boat than 17 years, one among 24 million; and into a kampong (village) at the water’s in Asia for over four decades, previously edge, I met a man whom Peter had in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Hong taught. The world is small. At every Kong. Watching the world’s most assembly his name, engraved in gold on Hugh’s father, Eric Peyman, Head of Art populous continent change has been the Honour Boards of Big School, had 1959-1978 32 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 33

I am now officially retired. This frees Over the years I slowly realised that I was the second youngest. Keeping me to enjoy things for which there was traditional philosophy was a factor in up with old friends has not been easy, never enough time previously, to travel China’s economic success, not that it not just because I have lived literally on for pleasure and to write. Last year, had a place in conventional economic the other side of the world for over four Life after May my reflections on what makes China theory. Once I came to write the book decades but because my parents moved tick were published by World Scientific and read much more Chinese philosophy, back to Herefordshire after my father Publishing. China’s Change: The helped by patient explanations from my retired as art master in 1978, so I did not My Downing Street diary Greatest Show on Earth, in a sign of the wife Marina Yang Tse Oy, I could see how return to Solihull. In the days before email times that the world’s centre of economic important traditional philosophy is – and addresses, staying in touch was a greater gravity moves ever eastward, was what the West is missing about China. challenge. However, it is good to see It must be rare for a former pupil to be asked to write an article appearances, as well as briefing cabinet published by a Singaporean publisher. Ironically, the main ideas that have driven Andrew and Ian during visits to our son for The Silhillian on the occasion of being unceremoniously ministers ahead of Today, Newsnight, Question Time, Marr and the like. So it China for millennia are almost exactly the Matthew in London and to continue the booted out of his job, but they do say all political careers end in Contrary to long-held Western same as those that drove the West to conversations that enlivened Mountain was that I found myself travelling in that expectations, China’s economy, my main dominate the world economy from 1800 Club walks and class discussions. failure. Jaguar as I was whizzed over to the House of Commons. focus of interest, has not collapsed. With – long-term thinking, vision, gradualism Although I’d had a keen interest in many first-hand accounts of China’s and pragmatism among them. Hugh’s email is hughpeyman@ politics since I was very young, I never During the EU referendum campaign I rapid re-emergence, including a wide research-works.com should any old dreamed that one day I’d be in that car. variety of portraits from Gold Mouth Aunt Fittingly, two old friends from Miss friends from class, rugby or Windsor was seconded to the Remain campaign, to leading entrepreneurs, China’s Change Bradwell’s Prep Form of 1959 were at wish to be in touch. where I memorably ended up playing Politics wasn’t on offer as a subject when Boris Johnson opposite Amber Rudd, tells the story of China’s recent change the London launch of China’s Change. I was at school, but it permeated the based on many years of on-the-ground Andrew Williams (Pole 1959-1968) was Angela Eagle and others as they lessons of great teachers such as Messrs prepared for the television debates. research and travel around the whole my predecessor at Mumbwa, while Ian Melhuish and Dunne (English) and country, from the sub-tropical south to Dodds-Smith (Fetherston 1959-1968) Reddington and Roberts (History). the frozen north. had been the youngest in the school: There was quite an upheaval in Downing Street in the aftermath of the referendum I went up to St John’s College, result, and I was grateful when Theresa Cambridge to study English Literature in May offered to keep me on in the same 2005 with vague intentions to pursue a role. After the 2017 election I moved to career at the bar, but I had also won a work in the Policy Unit in Number 10, Choral Scholarship and got distracted primarily focused on Brexit, but also with by the lure of life as a professional opera So it was that on 24 July 2019 I found responsibility for Foreign Affairs, Defence singer. myself being ushered hurriedly out of the and Development. back of Downing Street along with the Thus it was in 2010 that as an rest of Theresa May’s political staff. We On Brexit, we worked hard to broker David Stratford (Fetherstone 1948-58) impoverished student at the Royal had just clapped her out of the building a compromise that honoured the Academy of Music, having realised I on her way to the Palace to tender her referendum result while safeguarding jobs Thanks to Hugh we tried to probably wasn’t the next Bryn Terfel, I resignation, and we were given just and security. Ultimately, we were not able applied for all of the internships going on find some more information twenty minutes to make emotional to chart a course through the competing w4mpjobs.org and was lucky enough about David as we had no farewells to our Civil Service friends and objectives in Parliament and the intense to get a two week placement with colleagues before Boris Johnson’s team negotiations with the EU. I will leave it to contact details for him on our George Eustice MP, newly elected for were to make their way in. historians to pick over the gory details, system. With a little digging we Camborne and Redruth. Two weeks as and of course that history is still being an intern turned into over two years as a have located him in Melbourne I had been working in politics for three written. parliamentary researcher, and I gained an Australia. years before I was first invited to Number amazing grounding in the workings of our 10 for a meeting. I still remember my Although Brexit dominated our attention parliament and government. If you have any more information, nervous excitement as I went through the and that of the media for much of my little security hut at the end of Downing time in Downing Street, there were many please do let us know. From George’s office I obtained a job in Street before timidly asking a policeman other memorable moments. Playing the Conservative Research Department for directions on how to get into the a tiny part in the UK’s hosting of the as a policy adviser in Education, building. Despite his immediate thought Commonwealth Heads of Government Foreign Affairs and the European Union. that I was pulling his leg, one look at my Meeting in 2018, working on our However, I quickly found my niche in earnest face prompted him to point up response to the Skripal poisonings in preparing MPs and ministers for TV and the street and, totally deadpan, say, “It’s Salisbury, and helping draft the PM’s radio appearances. I became Head the black door... on the right.” I’d always speech for the Downing Street Pride of Briefing for the party in early 2014, assumed there was a back entrance for reception all helped remind me what a and thus found myself writing all of staff and normal visitors, but no, world privilege it was to work at the heart of David Cameron’s briefings for the 2015 leader or junior staffer, everyone gets to government and to support the Prime election. go in through the famous door. Minister. I don’t think it was my briefings “wot won I’d last been that close to the Downing Too often in the last four years I spent it,” but I’d obviously done something Street gates as a nine-year-old on a the day rushing up and down Downing right as I was called to an interview day trip to London the summer before I Street: but, as I had my pass and phone in Downing Street soon after Election started at Solihull School. We’d watched taken off me and was escorted through Day. I was offered a job as one of the John Major’s Jaguar speed out to the gates for the last time, I did stop to Prime Minister’s Special Advisers with take him to Prime Minister’s Questions remember how I felt when I had to ask responsibility for briefing – essentially (PMQs) over at the House of Commons. that policeman for directions. preparing the PM for PMQs and media 34 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 35

Most importantly, Denis would be around the country, but for the last ten Sarah Whitehouse from the School’s wonderful company, walking round the years Helen Auster (daughter of Andrew Catering Department, and Lucy Lunt boundary edge and engaging with all, and Liz Auster, and granddaughter of in the Development and Old Silhillians’ The Auster Cricket Match young or old. In recognition of the many George and Brenda Auster) and Robin Office. happy days of Family & Friends Cricket Thomas have meticulously arranged the at Solihull, a bench was presented fixture, producing memorable days and The other photograph accompanying The Auster-Robinson Family & Friends Cricket: to the school at this year’s fixture to priceless souvenir programmes. Our this article was taken in 2013. It shows acknowledge with immense gratitude great thanks go out to them. the late Tom Auster about to dispatch the school’s magnanimity in allowing the ball to the long-off boundary for four. great days from 1983 to 2019 the game to be played here, with due The families are grateful to various The wicketkeeper is David Chambers, mention of the extraordinary support and Headmasters, Bursars and Groundsmen Old Silhillian and at the time Bursar of kindness from Denis Tomlin. over the 37 years, but in recent times the Blundell’s School. Ben Robinson is at families would like to acknowledge David first slip, and Tom’s father Andrew is at Various members of the Auster and Lloyd, the Headmaster, Richard Bate, the the bowler’s end. Sadly, this was Tom’s Robinson families have hosted matches Bursar, Mark Bailey, the Groundsman, fifteenth and last appearance in the fixture, and besides scoring some much- needed runs he also won the Man of the Match bowling award.

Andrew Auster (Shenstone 1961-1969)

A FINAL WORD FROM JAMES VERO, (SHENSTONE 1974-1980)

There were 15 of us cousins whom Helen has made such admirable efforts to keep together, 15 of us who can call George and Brenda our grandparents. That is slightly more than a cricket team, but you need a few spare to cover injuries and to give options depending on the playing On Saturday 23 July 1983, Paul Auster, Old Silhillian and former conditions. It was a diverse squad. By Captain of Cricket, arranged for family members and friends to the natural order of things, as opener, I was due to get out first, long before gather to celebrate his marriage the following weekend to Fiona the lower order. The number 8 came Kerr by playing cricket. 19 years after me. Some tailenders stretched out 25 or more years after me (and the number 15 came over 30 Despite some initial rain, shown in the Over the years 221 cricketers have years later). It pains me greatly that photograph taken before play started, played in the fixture, including these Old this natural batting order has been it was a joyous occasion. Without any Silhillians: the Auster brothers, Paul, disrupted. Our number 8 was a good contrivance, both teams were bowled out Stephen and Andrew (and I must mention ‘un and should still be waiting in the for 179 runs and so the match was tied. older brother John, ex-King’s Norton), Pavilion before having his moment John and Mike Bettridge, David Meek, and demonstrating his potential. I am With the first game having been such David Chambers, Mike Dunkley, Alex so, so sorry his innings has finished fun for all who attended, a second game Henderson, Keith (AKC) Jones, Andrew before it really began. We will all was arranged the following year at the Newman and James Vero. Our former remember him with great affection, Kalamazoo Ground in Birmingham. Over Headmaster John Claughton played our dear cousin Tom. a 37-year period matches have been twice in the fixture, scoring 112 not out in played in Shropshire, Lancashire, Devon 2004 and 61 the following year. (at the picturesque Valley of the Rocks), Herefordshire, Somerset, Suffolk, Sussex, From 1983 until 2016 for every Solihull London, Oxford, Buckinghamshire and fixture (and some away fixtures too) Denis Hertfordshire. However, the special Tomlin, former Acting Headmaster, was appeal of Solihull School has resulted in present to umpire, unlock and lock the the match being staged 17 times here. Pavilion, ensure the pitch was going to be ready for play, arrange for the loan of school kit and help prepare sandwiches for tea. 36 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 37 The Levengers A Fetherston Family This year we’re starting with the Levenger family who have had children In a new regular feature The Silhillian celebrates here for three generations. If your family can go back further than this those families that have been associated with the please let us know and we will feature you in the magazine next year. school for many generations. PETER (1951- 1962) m HELEN BROTHER OF JOHN (1954 - 1964) m JENNY

Brian and Roy

Polly’s step father is Helen and sister Lindainda Brian Wild (Pole1958 - 1963) in their Saintaint Martins Brother of Roy (Pole 1961- 1966) summer uniform

CARON m SIMON GARLAND MAX (1983 - 1994) m POLLY

Peter Levenger ANDREW (1983 - 1994) m KYLIE

Andrew Levenger is now a Maths teacher living out in New Zealand with his wife Kylie, and their two daughters, Mollie and Eleanor.

ELEANOR 3 MOLLIE 6 A young Max Levenger Their grandparents reliably inform us John and Peter’s family in 1984 they would be Silhillians if they didn’t LOUIS GARLAND SANDIE GARLAND live in New Zealand. 2011 - 2018 2013 - 2015

Helen and Andrew VI Form GEORGINA HENRY Currently in J3 Currently in Thirds Andrew starting school

Peter Levenger has gone back to the Max and I started at Solihull in J1 In 1994 I went to Durham to read beginning. He and Helen have just with Mrs Instone in September 1983, Maths and Economics then stayed on moved into a flat in Malvern Court on the the same time as Alan Lee started to do a PGCE. I’ve worked all over the Warwick Road that is built on the site as Headmaster. We were both in UK and Dubai but am now settled in of Kineton House, once owned by the Fetherstone. Sport was a passion. Christchurch, NZ at Christ’s College. school and housing the juniors. I gained my full colours in UV for hockey, and went on to enjoy a couple of great I love life in New Zealand, enjoying the He and Helen will have an excellent view seasons in the 1st XI, along with Max lack of traffic (relative to the M42/A41) of the merger as their living room has a and several other great players. Charlie and the sporty, outdoors lifestyle. We full view of Brueton Avenue. Briggs was Captain in our final year. don’t catch up with many Old Sils out Louis and Sandie Garland here, but I always have an eye open and am happy to entertain any who do come Andrew Levenger and Family out this way! No current plans to return! Georgina and Henry Levenger 38 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 39

From breakfast television, Karen moved As a producer, Karen’s remit is broad. Towards the end of the interview, I on to children’s shows such as Roland She is a researcher, an interviewer, an asked Karen for advice for those of us Rat with the puppeteer David Claridge. editor and even a historian, delving interested in a career in television. She The Alumna interview She even tried her hand, literally, at a bit through decades-old film reels to cited personality, enthusiasm and, of of the puppetry: “I sometimes operated research the archives that “really lift the course, perseverantia as vital traits, along the right arm in photoshoots, which documentary. If you’re a producer or with passion. “It’s basically like writing a Karen Steyn (Jago 1978-1980) was weird.” She then started working director, you control it all … You’ve got an visual essay about a subject you love,” with some of the biggest names in idea in your head, like a magazine article, she says. So passion is key – something television at that time, producing both and you turn it visually into something which Karen herself demonstrated clearly, Clive James’s and David Frost’s talk exciting.” even in the single hour I spent with her. shows, and then later moving into Perhaps a Solihull pupil can, following documentaries. this advice, have as fruitful and dynamic a career as Karen continues to have!

Nothing Like A Dame. A 2018 documentary film produced by Karen Steyn for Field Day Fims

Georgie Hart, current Deputy Head of School, is interested in a career in the media, so she jumped at the chance to interview one of our former pupils, Karen Steyn, who has had a long and illustrious career in TV production.

Having joined Solihull in 2013, when the to a female member of staff, Jan Keil, school had been fully coeducational for when they needed reprimanding. As almost a decade, I’ve always wondered for those boys, there was another, very what it was like for those first early positive and long-lasting, consequence pioneering girls who entered in the Sixth of her time at Solihull School: she went Form in the seventies. So it was a great on to marry Stewart Lawley (Pole 1973- privilege to have the opportunity to 1981), with whom she has two sons. meet one of them, Karen Steyn (1978- 1980). Karen is now an award-winning The school’s Drama Society was a television producer with over thirty years’ standout feature. “The society was experience of the business. Her credits created by Mr Temple, a teacher noted include Clive James on TV, The Frost for being agreeably eccentric.” After Programme, The Unforgettable…, The two happy years here, Karen managed Heart and Soul of Eric Morecambe and, to secure one of only eight places on most recently, Darcey Bussell’s Looking an English and Drama degree at Royal for Audrey and the hugely acclaimed film, Holloway, University of London. She Nothing Like A Dame with Judi Dench, cheerfully admits that her launch into Maggie Smith, Joan Plowright and Eileen television involved an element of luck; Atkins. she got a job almost immediately after leaving university as a “copy runner” on We met in a coffee shop near her offices the newly launched breakfast television. and she recalled her school days with “There’s such a buzz on live TV,” she great fondness. Having come from Saint says. “It didn’t feel like work, it felt like Martin’s “which was very strict – white fun.” Used to holding her own as a girl at gloves were compulsory in summer,” she school, she was undaunted by entering remembers being one of about 15 to 20 an industry which at that time was so girls in her year. Unsurprisingly, “we got a dominated by men. lot of attention,” and it was not just from the boys. “The male staff were in awe of the girls,” and seemingly didn’t know how to handle them – sending them off 40 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 41

As for Speeches itself, well, actually, it It was watching that film that made me was a little nerve-wracking. Talking to realise just how important investigations students, parents and teachers at your by journalists are for revealing the truth. Ian MacGregor returns old school is not quite the same as an (It was great to see the book of All the audience of journalists. But what a joy it President’s Men available in the Library was to chat to some of my old teachers when I did my lunchtime tour.) like Arthur Brooker (you really did drive all that French grammar into me, Mr Journalism is such an exciting and to the School Brooker) and Jill Godsall (apologies for enjoyable career, I said, and it holds a failing to pursue the violin despite your real social value, a real sense of purpose. brilliant instruction, Miss Godsall). My key message to the students was to Ian (Jago 1970-1980) is a former editor of The After handing out several dozen prizes choose a career which they loved and and awards on stage, I gave an address was worthwhile. Sunday Telegraph and is now in an “Emeritus” role which I called “A Sense of Purpose.” I talked about the crucial importance of I have been very lucky because I have journalism in a democracy. Without a been able to work with so many papers at The Telegraph, coordinating the commercial and vibrant local and national press, I argued, and websites from The Telegraph to the who was there to hold the rich and Daily Mail, the London Evening Standard editorial sides of the operation. powerful to account? and the Metro. It has been a real privilege doing the job that I have. When I returned to Solihull School in I spoke about how I got into this job and He is currently President of The Society of Editors and a board how I had been captivated by the film All Judging by the ambition and passion of member of the Independent Press Standards Organisation. He September 2019 – for the first time in nearly forty years – I wasn’t quite sure the President’s Men which I watched at the Solihull students that I met, I am sure Ian MacGregor guest of honour at Speeches became the Editor of Metro during 2001 and Deputy Editor of what to expect. I had very fond memories the Solihull Odeon (sadly no longer there) that they themselves will go on to lead September 2019 the Evening Standard in 2002, and has worked on many of our of the staff and fellow pupils, but it did all when I was 16. very rewarding lives. broadsheet and tabloid newspapers. feel like it was a very long time ago. As I drove up to park outside Reception, He was guest of honour at Speeches this year. Here he reflects all those memories suddenly started on what it was like to return to the school after many years of to flood back. There on my right was absence. the Chapel, but now with a stunning sculpture in front. The junior rugby pitches were all still there, looking glorious in the sun. And there was the Quad in front of me, although now with new windows stopping the elements coming in.

For a few minutes it felt like nothing much had changed. But how wrong I was.

A quick tour of the new buildings left me in awe: the Cooper Building, the Music School, the Bushell Hall, as well as new initiatives like the Wellbeing and Personal Development Department.

How lucky today’s pupils are! As a father of three, I have seen many schools, especially in the South East, and I can’t think of many which have anything like the space and facilities that Solihull School has. Even the refectory is being refurbished.

L-r back row Ian MacGregor, Sean Morgan (Senior Deputy Head), Mark Hopton (Chairman of Governors), David Lloyd (Headmaster). Front Row: Heads of School, Abigail Kaur-Bennett, Jack Arrowsmith and Georgina Hart 42 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 43

Long ago, Jean had become John; instead of just waiting to be liberated. We John showed me some wonderful little Jammes is pronounced “James.” did what we could,” John said, rather items that he had kept from the war, but “You can’t serve two masters,” he modestly. he also added that he had deliberately In Conversation with.... explained. He loves France dearly, but chosen not to keep much “stuff.” Coming when Britain stood alone in the war, As he explained, many French people did to England was a new life, although after France had surrendered, Britain what they could. He discovered many recently that former life as a teenage became his inspiration and his new years later that his own grandmother hid hero of the Resistance has rightly been country. Equally, however, he has no a pilot in her little flat in Paris. His mother highlighted on national television and Guy Cuthbertson talks to hatred for Germany: “I refuse to blame played a part too: he and his mother radio. We spoke for several hours, the the sons for the fathers’ sins.” He arrived had been separated from his father (“my conversation taking us to letters from at Solihull School in 1955, when he hero”) when the country was divided Mr Hitchens in red ink, the Gestapo and was appointed by HB Hitchens, and into two halves (one occupied and one the Italian secret police, his granny’s according to The Shenstonian he proved “free”), and his father was on the other gold coins, Michael Tolkien’s beautiful John Jammes to be an “excellent teacher.” He became side of the demarcation line. But they handwriting, photographing Charles Housemaster of Jago, and one item were able to visit him by pretending on de Gaulle, Field Marshal Montgomery’s that he showed me was a “Certificate of one occasion to be relatives taking a voice, the scuttling of the French The 1968 Shenstonian noted Amiable Eccentricity” presented to him corpse by hearse to a family vault. The fleet, teachers who couldn’t teach, that John Jammes “had an by the Jago House Bench in 1967. German checking their papers should the Germans’ fear of TB, Big School extraordinarily sympathetic have noticed that his mother was not assemblies, and how John met his His much-admired meticulous attention wearing black from top to bottom, but, beloved wife. He also spoke proudly of understanding of England to detail as a schoolmaster, and what once again, John was “incredibly lucky.” his sons, who are officers in the British which seemed, indeed, to have The Shenstonian described as his He had a number of narrow escapes: on army. We also discussed Brexit. John become his native country.” “equable but firm” personality, were no one occasion outside a railway station Jammes is an eloquent, charming, doubt much in evidence during the war he was almost caught with a suitcase fascinating man, and his repeated years. He was thirteen at the time of full of weapons, and he went through message was one for today as well as When we met during the the Fall of France, and started working checkpoints again and again with secret the 1940s: “You must really try hard to summer in a quintessentially for the Resistance as a bespectacled messages. He carried messages inside stop hating as soon as you possibly English market town, he was schoolboy. John then became a member the handlebars of his bicycle. can.” of the “Maquis” after D-Day. He was one the epitome of an English of the fighters involved in active guerrilla gentleman, even though he operations, hiding in the forest, hunting does have a Croix de Guerre for food, and ambushing Germans and a slight accent. (At lunch, (blocking roads with trees and then attacking with Sten guns and bazookas). the waiter spoke to him in They were brave, poorly-armed amateurs French.) John Jammes is in and “we had appalling casualties,” but fact one of the last surviving “at least some of us did something members of the French Resistance, and it was wonderful to be able to talk to him about the war years and his thirteen very happy, and very busy, years at Solihull.

Guy Cuthbertson (Fetherston 1987- 1994) is Associate Professor of English Literature at Liverpool Hope University and the British Academy’s Chatterton Lecturer on Poetry in 2018. He has edited two volumes of Edward Thomas’s prose and is the author of Wilfred Owen (Yale 2014). His most recent book is Peace at Last A portrait of Armistice day 11 November 1918. 44 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 45 Past Presidents of the OSA Join the Solihull School

1921/22 Dr AV Bernays 1950 JM Urry 1974 DM Powell 1998 PA Thomas 1923 C Aldrin 1951 KW Highway 1975 MJ Cusack 1999 JM Batsford Community network 1924 WR Ludlow 1952 Dr KT Waters 1976 RC Young 2000 J Woolman 1925 PE Martineau 1953 BE Hatton 1977 KJ Foster 2001 BJD Wilde 1926 PH Reading 1954 MAD Cooper 1978 T Jackson 2002 MA Cutler 1927 HA Hughes 1955 JT Rolfe 1979 DA Gurnham 2003 N Smith The Solihull School Community network is a place 1928 HS Matthews 1956 VO Hawley 1980 PBL Instone 2004 R Jerrom 1929 TA Furse 1957 FR Bishop 1981 JLR Hare 2005 BW Allen for former pupils, parents and staff to connect with 1930 CH Palmer 1958 LG Highway 1982 RC Cupit 2006 PA Thomas 1931 WC Couch 1959 HA Steele 1983 DD Cox 2007 SD Allso each other and the school. 1932 LC Reading 1960 CWD Cooper 1984 DW Edwards 2008 JA Platt 1933 LE Horton 1961 HT Wilcox 1985 SC Mackay 2009 RJ Young 1934 F Burnett 1962 WP Townsend 1986 JRD Orrett 2010 ME Levenger It offers a range of dynamic features including news, photo galleries, events, publications and a 1935 RH Whitehall 1963 DH Billing 1987 G Stubbings 2011 JN Harrison 1936 CL Hughes 1964 HB Callaghan 1988 MS Saunders careers section. As the network grows, so will the content and features. 1937 FJ Osborne 1965 CT Coton 1989 HJC Taylor 2012 PG Davies 1938 HD James 1966 MJ Wheelock 1990 MJD Smith 2013 JR Bates Join today at https://alumni.solsch.org.uk 1939/43 WRL Horton 1967 PJ Hill 1991 RJC Graves 2014 JM Skan 1944 FL Nock 1968 BJW Swift 1992 BW Allen 2015 J Loynton 1945 AG Bragg 1969 FAR Moon 1993 GM Hughes 2016 SD Westwood 1946 JB Mayers 1970 JEJ Baggs 1994 HE Blow 2017 JA Dugdale 1947 CW Bragg 1971 RG Toy 1995 AJ Richardson 2018 J Clapham 1948 EG Wilcox 1972 TG Jones 1996 P Callaghan 2019 S Griffiths 1949 AJD Mansell 1973 JMB Urry 1997 MC Bettridge

Old Silhillians Blagatta Blazer and Waistcoat

Why not order yours now to be ready to celebrate the Old Silhillians’ Association centenary in 2021. In 1921 the then Headmaster WF Bushell formed the Old Boys’ Club, for the former pupils of Solihull School in order to; Keep the old boys together more firmly and with the desire that the school should prosper.

• Please make sure you complete • Register for an event • Read and comment on existing your profile and, most importantly, stories add a photo • Share your news and successes with OSA Blagatta Blazers for men and women cost £165.00 and the waistcoat with lapels cost old school friends • Share the network via social media £50, without lapels cost £40, this includes embroidery and delivery. Women’s sizes are from • Keep your contact details up to date with your friends, and ask them to join too 8-18 and the men’s are from 34 –56” To place an order, please contact Lynn Moseley at [email protected] or on 0121 703 2963. We look forward to you joining the network and activating your profile, making our thriving alumni community an ever-growing success. 46 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 47

The merged school is to be known as Solihull and will be led by the Headmaster, David E. J. J. Lloyd. The The merger with Saint Martin’s Campus will be home to our Preparatory School for boys and girls aged 3-11, whilst Solihull’s Warwick Road Campus will be home to our Senior TOGETHER School and Sixth Form for pupils aged Saint Martin’s 11-18. Planning of the finer details is CREATING THE already well in hand to enable the merger to go operationally live from 1 September MIDLANDS’ 2020. In the meantime, we will be P E I A R S T Solihull’s Chairman of Governors, Mark Hopton working ever more closely together on a E V E R A N LEADING 3-18 “business as usual” basis to deliver the CO-EDUCATIONAL (Shenstone 1968-1973) gives his perspective on best possible experience and outcomes in the current academic year for the DAY SCHOOL pupils of both schools. the bold and exciting strategic developments of Coming together will also bring benefits recent weeks. to our important alumni communities. So many former Solihull and Saint Martin’s pupils have remarked in recent weeks We live amidst political and economic turmoil – and the about siblings or partners who were independent school sector is not immune. Despite this, or proudly educated at the other school. perhaps because of it, Solihull and Saint Martin’s have chosen So we are already intertwined through Development and Alumni teams an education. We remain proud of the huge this moment to seize a “once in a generation” opportunity to join family history. Equally, very many couples opportunity not only to respect and public benefit we bring through our educated at both schools have chosen preserve key fixtures and events in the bursary scheme to give a break in life to forces and create a 3-18 school for boys and girls in order to to educate their children at either or alumni calendars of each former pupil deserving and disadvantaged pupils. We best serve Solihull and the wider region. both schools. This gives our respective body, but also to innovate in a way which also do so much more to put our people, reflects our merged status. our resources and our facilities at the disposal of our local community. We will Our joint decision does not of itself redouble our efforts in this regard. change the political and economic landscape. Many of you will have read, Our merger will bring economies of scale, no doubt with dismay, of some political vastly improved resilience and greater party policies to strip independent investment capacity to keep Solihull There will be some current and former schools of their charitable status, to at the leading edge of independent staff, parents and pupils – particularly impose VAT on school fees, or – in the education regionally. Above all, it fills at Saint Martin’s – who will be sad to most extreme scenarios – to integrate us with tremendous confidence as we see the loss of an independent girls’ the significant assets and resources of embark on the next leg of our journey school. I’m afraid that this is a direct independent schools into the maintained together. consequence of an outlook of mounting sector. We stand firm in defending the financial pressures. No doubt, some right of parents to choose how and Mark Hopton will also be daunted by the size of the where their children are educated and Chairman of Governors combined entity. But I am fully confident to have the freedom to pay for that that the investment we will make in our pastoral infrastructure will provide every pupil with the framework and tailored support to enable them to flourish and Malvern Hall 1965 excel as individuals.

We each bring to the party a proud heritage and many shared values underpinned by a Christian ethos which will be reflected in the merged school we aim to create. We are both fortunate to employ so many truly gifted teachers and outstanding support staff who will together enable us to offer the widest possible choice to pupils, both in the classroom and beyond. We each contribute many strengths. We will also share some of the finest complementary facilities set in a total of 70 acres in central Solihull. Saint Martin’s 2015 48 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 49 This Sporting Life…

Charlie Morgan (Windsor 2005-2016) Lewis Holsey (Jago 2017-2019) Charlie Morgan, former 1st XV captain and England Counties Lewis left school in the summer of 2019 to join the Three Pears player, having just graduated from Exeter University, has recently Warriors Academy at Worcester Warriors after being promoted signed a contract to play rugby for Bloomberg-backed Hong from the Junior Academy. Kong Scottish RFC. Previously he had been capped by and full on but extremely enjoyable, as it’s a dream come true and something The team finished runners-up in last love during my time at Solihull!” It’s great England Under 16s and England Under I’ve been working towards for years. It’s season’s Saxo Capital Premiership and to know that committing yourself to 18s. Unfortunately, his 2018/19 season great being surrounded by top-class Grand Championship Final. Let’s hope something for so many years can open was badly disrupted by injuries, but his experienced professionals and getting this season’s new signings help them go up such exciting opportunities for people, reputation as a powerful and dynamic the opportunity to learn from such role one further! sometimes in the most unlikely of places. loosehead prop helped him secure a models to ensure I can improve and Well done, Charlie, and good luck! place in the Senior Academy at Sixways. develop my game every day.” Charlie settled into his new apartment Talking to The Silhillian, Lewis said: “Life in Laguna City, Kowloon, back in July as a professional rugby player is hard 2019 and has been training hard with teammates from across the world. “Playing rugby in Hong Kong is an incredible opportunity and something I’m really excited about,” said Charlie. “Whilst training in high humidity is seriously tough, the squad is looking strong and we’re hoping for a good season. What Harry, Charlie, Rachel and Sean say goodbye a place to play the sport I learned to at Birmingham Airport

Julie Whiting (Windsor 2006-2013) Aoife Mannion (Windsor 2012-2014) After competing for Wales at the 2018 Commonwealth Games Aoife’s sporting career goes from strength to strength. She was held on the Gold Coast, Australia, it was a busy year for Julie signed up by Manchester City this summer prior to her first call- with international hockey tournaments as well as playing in the up to the England women’s national football team, the Lionesses, Premier League. in August 2019 for the matches against Belgium and Norway.

She competed with Bowdon Hightown She was originally signed by Birmingham Aoife was an England international at at the Jaffa Super 6s – the biggest City while studying Economics at Under-15 right up to Under-23 level. indoor tournament in the UK – playing Birmingham University, where she She was a member of England’s squad on a high-profile stage, the Copper Box graduated with first-class honours. at the 2010 UEFA Women’s Under-17 Arena. Championship and the 2014 FIFA Under- At 24, Aoife has established herself as 20 Women’s World Cup in Canada. Julie was chosen to compete at the one of the finest centre backs in the World League Finals in Valencia. Barclays FA Women’s Super League She once missed an OSA committee Playing against Spain, ranked fifth in the (WSL). She joined a host of England meeting due to an England call-up. She world, she celebrated winning her 50th Julie playing for Wales colleagues at Manchester City when she has been forgiven. international cap for Wales. Playing at the signed for Nick Cushing’s side. She has European Championships in Glasgow, established herself as one of the most Wales were able to gain some more vital You can support Julie in forthcoming accomplished defenders in the WSL. points in their quest to qualify for the next tournaments by catching up with her Commonwealth Games in 2022. on the BBC, EuroHockey TV and FIH (International Hockey Federation) live streams. You can also keep up with her Julie winning her 50th cap for Wales progress on https://alumni.solsch.org.uk 50 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 51 The Memorial Clubhouse News from the sports and Grounds clubs at Copt Heath The outstanding sports facilities at Copt Heath are at Copt Heath the home to long-established hockey, rugby, squash

The OSA is unusual in that it maintains a significant sports and rifle clubs. facility alongside a commercial operation, both of which are run professionally, with huge support from the OSA management New members of all abilities are most welcome and full details team on a voluntary basis – ensuring that the facilities will benefit can be found at www.silhillians.co.uk/sports-club future generations of Old Silhillians. Andre Tchakhotine (Shenstone, 1996) South, as well as trying to replicate the were regulars in the Midlands Over-40s cup run of 2017 when we reached the After a number of years of difficult Junior football has grown from 280 Finally, we had hoped that by now we National Championships winning team. National Intermediate Cup semi-final. trading, the commercial operation has players in 22 teams in 2016/17 to 32 would have a new artificial grass pitch Meanwhile, Jamie Clapham and Steve The new season welcomes sponsors been turned around, largely as a result of teams and around 420 players in the (AGP) on which first class rugby could Tabb (Windsor, 1996) contributed to a Standley & Co, Prime Accountants and sensible cost cutting under the guidance current season, ranging from U7s to be played. This was to be paid for by world record achievement – playing in Solutions2 as well as a new kit supplier, of our General Manager, Mark Coltman, U18s. There are girls’, boys’ and mixed the RFU as part of its World Cup legacy a hockey match at an altitude of over Raging Bull, across all rugby club and our Facilities Director, Max Levenger teams. There is also a Saturday U5s and programme. Unfortunately, the RFU 5,000 metres in Nepal as members sections. (who, yet again, has contributed many U6s academy, introducing the game to suspended that programme shortly of the Hockey 4 Heroes squad in a hours on a voluntary basis). an additional 60 or more children. before work was due to commence. It is project which raised money for injured Silhillians Squash & Racketball Club not clear when it will be reinstated, but it servicemen and women. offers various membership options. A The facilities are excellent and are This year over 200 juniors were coached is hoped that we will have an AGP in the club night runs every Monday, providing an ideal venue for parties, wakes, and played hockey. The Sunday morning not too distant future. Silhillians RUFC saw some the opportunity to meet and play conferences and the like. Our caterers, coaching covers U6s to U14s (boys reorganisation, with former player Lee other members in a relaxed, friendly RD Catering, are able to provide a full and girls). 40 of the juniors represented Peter Davies Jones appointed co-Chairman alongside atmosphere. All are welcome regardless range of meals, from simple buffets to Warwickshire and four (including two OSA Hon. Secretary Kevin Johns (stepping up from chair of ability, and it’s free. There is no need Tom Harrison and Jamie Clapham BBQs and silver service dining. pupils at the School)chool) were selected for (Shenstone(Shenstone 1969-1976) of the Mini/Juniors), bringing the club to book: just turn up and join in. The Midlands performance centres. together under one committee and Junior coaching is well established with We ask members to consider the In March, Old Silhillians Hockey Club, setting the path for future development. coaching sessions for beginners. There Clubhouse for your next event. If you are Mini and junior rugby now have 350 captained by Tom Harrison (Jago, left are also “ladies only” coaching sessions interested, please contact Mark (Mark. registered players and run teams from 2007) and coached by Jamie Clapham There has been a player recruitment on Friday evenings. [email protected]), who would be U7s to Colts (U18s). Lastast year the U15s (Windsor, 2003), secured promotion drive over the summer. Coach Mark delighted to meet you and explain what and U14s won the Warwickshire Cup back to the Midlands League. The squad Evans (ex-Moseley no 8) is pleased with Old Silhillians Rifle Club offers shooting is on offer. and the U10s won the Prima Cup. TheThe included eight former and current Solihull the numbers at training, with some old disciplines equally open to all from the annual festival is one of the largest in pupils. The Ladies 1st XI were champions faces, some school leavers and some age of 12 upwards. The club supports The sports that are played at Copt Heath the Midlands, with over twenty clubs of the Warwickshire League, and this former mini and junior players adding the traditional rim fire prone discipline and are wide ranging: junior football, senior participating and around 1,500 players year will compete in the Midlands League much more depth and competition to an also from the precision target shooting and junior hockey, senior and junior enjoying the facilities at Copt Heath.Heath. for the first time in their history under already experienced and talented squad menu is active in Lightweight Sport Rifle, rugby, squash and rifle/pistol shooting. captain Frankie Levey (Windsor, 2012). which includes Young Player of the Year 10M Olympic Air Pistol, Bench Rest There are reports on the successes Thehe pitches are kept in excellent award winner for 2018/19 Jonny Allen and the recently introduced “supported of adult teams elsewhere, so here we condition by our grounds staff and The club also successfully added a (Windsor, 2014). shooting.” concentrate on junior sport. the changing facilities, which were 5th Saturday Men’s league team and a completely rebuilt a few years ago, are 3rd Ladies league team. We also have Tom Lee (Shenstone, 2007) continues John Harrison Most junior sporting activity takes place second to none. Visiting teams often a midweek friendly Men’s Veterans XI, as club captain and anticipates another OSA Committee Member at weekends. Although it creates car remark on how good our facilities are and “Back to Hockey” sessions specifically keenly fought season in Midlands 2 West (Jago 1968-1975) parking headaches, up to 1000 young how they wish theirs were half as good! focused on helping ladies get back into people play football, hockey and rugby at playing, and a Lions XI for under-14s The first XV team pic with many alumni returning to the fold. Copt Heath at weekends. This really is a We now have a very good relationship making the transition to adult hockey. wonderful sight. between the OSA and the various sports clubs, working together for our mutual Individually, our midweek Veterans XI benefit. skipper, Gary Perkins (Windsor, 1979), captained Midlands Over-55s to the Regional National championships whilst Mark Dovey (Fetherston, 1996) and 52 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 53

We have five in-house competitions The A team played away at Ladbrook Damian Kelly, James Harrison, Mark Hiles including the Wiseman Cup Greensomes, Park in May, halving the match, and then and Tom Hare with a score of 96 points. OSA Challenge Cup (open to any Old won at home to Robin Hood in July. Old Silhillians Silhillian), Invitation AM-AM (the Roy Letts We enter the Grafton Morrish golf Memorial Salver) and the December Vase On 10 August we played a match against competition for public school old boys (again open to any Old Silhillian). Olton Golf Club at Olton involving nine each year. In May, at Olton Golf Club, games over 36 holes, starting at 7.30am we qualified for the finals with the team We have A & B teams which play four with bacon sandwiches and coffee and of Louis Meyron, James Hetherington, Golfing Society report matches each from May through to later enjoying a four-course lunch! The Martin Fell, Barney Dowding, Tom Shiels September. Home matches are played Old Sils won this fixture last year for the and Patrick Skakel. The finals take at Olton Golf Club and away matches first time since 2003, but Olton were place over the first weekend in October The Old Silhillians Golfing Society was founded in 1952. We currently at Robin Hood, Ladbrook Park, Copt back to their best. They ran out winners at the Royal West Norfolk Golf Club at have over 100 members, all of whom are either past pupils or past Heath, Edgbaston and Moor Hall. by 5½ to 3½ and so took back the J M Brancaster. masters of the school, and we are based at Olton Golf Club. Urry Cup. This year, under the captaincy of Joe Martyn Hurdley Bates, the B team won its first match Our final match, away to Copt Heath Golf Captain Old Silhillians Golfing Society against The Avenue Bowling Club. The Club, ended in a half. next fixture (Olton) was cancelled due to heavy rain, and then we halved our Thirty-two Old Silhillians and their match against the Old Eds at Olton Golf guests went on the Captain’s away day Club. The final fixture against the Old at Broadway Golf Club at the end of Veseyans at Moor Hall Golf Club was August. A 9-hole stableford competition again halved, with the Vesyans retaining in the morning was won by Stuart the Goldenrat Trophy. Thanks from Joe to Bakewell and Robin Summersgill with a everyone who played, particularly Roger score of 27. In the afternoon a fourball Flood who played in every match. stableford was played, the winners being

Supporters at the Grafton

Sitting left to right Martin Fell, John Loynton (president), Martyn Hurdley (captain), Barney Dowding. Standing Louis Meyron, Patrick Skakel, Tom Shiels, James Hetherington. 54 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 55 The Dubai Rugby 7’s Births, engagements Solihull School Greyhounds 7’s team and marriages Births Engagements Marriages

At the end of last summer Dan Super (Windsor 2001-2009), a former 1st XV rugby and 1st XI hockey player, chorister and cast member in every school musical Natasha (Tash) Evans (Pole 2004-2006) during his seven years as a pupil, married Led admirably by OSA Chairman and Tour Manager, Barry Allen, and Michael Gledhill (Fetherston 1992- Lucy Clubbin in a beautiful beachside and Captain, Jonny Allen, a 14-man squad of Old Silhillians 2003) both attended Solihull School and wedding in Ilfracombe, Devon. The L-R Robert Gooden (Fetherston 1998-2009) wedding was attended by many of Dan’s headed for the United Arab Emirates in December 2018 to the University of Leeds. Despite that, they with his niece, Frances, and her father never crossed paths until they both found old classmates and a number of staff Matthew. compete in the annual Dubai Rugby 7’s tournament. themselves back at Solihull as teachers. members. Once they had finally met, and much to the delight of their colleagues, they Dan is now Head of Junior School Sport The boys can be very proud of their As is customary, tour awards were Frances Gooden was born on 9 became engaged in 2018. They have just and A-Level PE; and, much to their joint efforts; they scored over 100 points in presented on the final night. Tom Serle Squad List November 2018 to Elizabeth and purchased their first home together. In delight, Lucy is now an English teacher their group fixtures, defied many odds was the top try scorer with five, Harry Matthew (Matt) Gooden (Fetherstone and made it through to the Plate Semi- Morgan won the “Best Tourist” accolade, the weird and wonderful world of Solihull at Solihull. Jonathan Allen 1995-2006). Final, where they narrowly missed out to and Samuel Montieri was the squad’s connections, it just happens that they Barry Allen bought their home from a pair of fellow a team called “The Canadian Irregulars.” “Best Player.” The squad also had an Matt says: “I’m very fortunate that I meet old Silhillians. opportunity to cheer on Will Talbot- Harry Morgan up regularly with Solihull School friends in “I couldn’t be prouder of the boys,” said Davies, who was playing in the main London (and beyond!), and we remain a Fred Howard Tash is now Head of Middle School and Jonny. “They played some cracking stadium for the Welsh national side. close-knit group – including our partners Ben Crowe teaches English, while Michael is Head of rugby and were fantastic ambassadors now, which is fantastic. Sam Tucker Lower School and a French and Spanish for the school, both on and off the The good news is that the team are Tom Serle (Fetherston 2006) is Frances’s godfather pitch. Most importantly, this has been a confirmed for the 2019 tournament in teacher. George Gamlin and lives just up the road from us in tremendous way to bring Old Silhillians December and will be competing as Putney, and I work in the same building Lawrence Finch together, and we are so grateful for the “Solihull School Greyhounds.” We post as one of my other best friends, George support we received.” all our news on our dedicated Instagram Robert Gnyla Smeaton (Shenstone 2006), so we feel page: @SolSchInDubai. You are very very blessed.” welcome to follow us on our journey, and Jack Hobbs do let us know if you are in Dubai during Toby Wassell the tournament. We would love to meet James Trueman you. Simon Bright In next year’s Silhillian we would love to feature couples who met at Solihull School. If you and your Harry Morgan Sam Montieri partner are one of them, please do let us know at [email protected] (Windsor 2004-2014) 56 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 57 In Memoriam Obituaries

Anthony C Fabricius (School House, 1933-1937) Air Vice-Marshal John Price CBE (Pole 1941-1947)

Anthony J Foster (Shenstone, 1935-1940) to accomplish this. When he retired in Ted Everitt (Shenstone, 1939-1946) 2005, as his successor Graham Hughes noted, the school was financially sound, John R Meek (Pole, 1939-1945) in good repair, with wonderful modern facilities – a legacy that anyone would be Paul M Child (Jago, 1938-1944) proud of. John’s final years were spent in David N Foster (Fetherston, 1939-1940) Herefordshire with his wife Ilse. He died on 25 April 2019. John Price – a man of Brian Giles (Shenstone, 1941-1946) speed, a man of integrity and practicality, a man of Solihull School in every respect. Lawrence Brown (Shenstone, 1941-1948) John C. Loynton, Howard Toney (Wilson, 1942-1947) School Archivist Neville J Roe (Pole, 1945-1950)

Peter Jowett (Fetherston, 1943-1952) I first met John in 1993. I was slightly nervous, but John was (as I came to Sylvia Bailey (wife of Laurie Bailey, Former Teacher) know him) his usual charming self, David Ross (Pole, 1945-1952) putting me at ease immediately.

David M Howells (Pole, 1945-1951) Almost every time we had a committee meeting, John would Richard J Courtney (House Unknown, 1948-1949) arrive on his motorbike from Hereford dressed from head to foot in black Royston W Dixon (Pole, 1947-1954) leathers. Nigel A Holmes (Pole, 1951-1961) The first project for our building Mike Wilkin (Windsor, 1953-1960) subcommittee was the Bushell Hall, our largest single project since the Trevor Owen (Windsor, 1964-1966) 1930s. I remember John getting annoyed with the architects whenever Miles Hooker (Jago, 1965-1968) they told him something was impossible. It always became possible Bernie D Clarke (School House and Windsor, 1967-1975) John Walter Price – often known as John Away from the RAF, he enjoyed a less Willie – was born in Birmingham in 1930 formal lifestyle. He was a keen biker: his in the end! Andrew Hulme (Shenstone, 1969-1974) and arrived at Solihull in 1941. He gained Telegraph obituary told the story that on House colours for football and cricket, one occasion he arrived at a reunion at I was very honoured when John Dennis Eyre (Fetherston, 1972-1978) brought his enthusiasm to the Debating his former base near Belfast, where he asked me to be his Vice-Chairman Society and the Aeronautical Society, and confused the police at the checkpoint on the Governing Body. What I didn’t Edward P Knight (Windsor, 1975-1984) served as a Cadet Assistant Signalling who reported: “There is an aged biker realise was that he was going to be in Australia for the first function at the Matthew P Fowler (Windsor, 1979-1984) Instructor in the Junior Training Corps with an earring who claims to be a retired (soon to become the CCF). air vice-marshal!” new Bushell Hall and he got me to do Nicholas Marlow (Pole, 1978-1987) it for him! In 1947, he started his immensely John’s connection with the school was distinguished RAF career. He was a renewed when he joined the Governing John asked me to take over from him fighter pilot in the Korean War; he acted Body in 1979. In 1982 he succeeded as Chairman after his retirement, a as a flight commander on 75 Squadron, George Hill as Chairman. The School daunting task as he was a hard act flying the Meteor; he flew helicopters prospered and invested in several to follow. We stayed in touch, and his during the Indonesian Confrontation in ambitious building projects, the last of interest in the school never waned. Borneo; and, at the end of his career, he which – the George Hill Building – he was heavily involved in enhancing RAF officially opened in June 2006. He said I enjoyed being John’s colleague and capabilities in the Falklands after the war he was more concerned with what friend, and I shall miss him. there. He was Mentioned in Despatches, lay ahead than what was behind. He appointed OBE and then advanced to advocated more than extensive building Graham Hughes, CBE. He retired from the Service in 1984 plans: he believed the school should John’s successor as Chairman with the rank of Air-Vice Marshal. embrace co-education, and he had of Governors the commitment and determination 58 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 59

For sixteen years Harry also produced JOHN F. CHALONER Chris died following a short battle the annual musical. When Giles Slaughter (Bushell 1941-1947) against cancer. He leaves behind his wife left in 1982 Harry was asked to help Carmel, daughters Sophie and Laura, produce the Opera with David Turnbull. John was born in 1930 and arrived at the and grandchildren Jacob and Emily, as It became one of the major events in the school in 1941. He was a keen swimmer well as his sister Carol and brothers Garry school calendar. He never turned a willing and gymnast, winning his school colours and Tony. He was known to be a man of sixth former away and the cast grew in for these activities. He also represented huge character, and he will be very much size, with innumerable chorus lines. Often Bushell at cricket, football, basketball missed by all his family and friends. over one hundred sixth formers would and swimming. His professional life be involved, on and off stage. Harry’s was spent working for the British Rover Tony Dyhouse preparations were meticulous and often Car Company in the Engine Design his productions had memorable extras, and Development section, and he MICHAEL FREDERICK like four burly Housemasters having often worked in the Far East as Rover’s LANCE WILKIN cameo roles as slaves in The Mikado or representative there. John had many 1942-2019 his young daughter dancing the dove interests; he was a keen pianist and MRS PAT MCGOWAN in La Belle Hélène. Behind the scenes organist, and won medals for ballroom Mike was at School from 1953-1960, Kay would be there in support, altering dancing with his wife Pat, whom he Windsor. He had a distinguished career in Many Old Silhillians will have fond costumes, applying make-up and married in 1954. John worked tirelessly HARRY RICKMAN CHRIS DYHOUSE the CCF, promoted to CSM in 1959. After memories of their school days under calming nerves. for the Knowle parish community, serving he left School, Mike worked for Halifax as Head of Modern Languages and (Fetherston 1961-1967) Headmaster Bruce McGowan, ably for 26 years as Clerk to the Trustees of a Quantity Surveyor before setting up his Second Master (1960-1999) supported by his wife, Pat. Pat sadly Harry’s retirement in 1999 allowed him Knowle United Charity. own business. He married Elizabeth in died this year, aged 93. She was a and Kay to enjoy their interests, to travel Chris was the first of the Dyhouse family Harry’s career at Solihull School began in to attend Solihull School, to be followed 1968 and they had three daughters. He former pupil of King Edward’s High and to see both their children marry. John Loynton was a member of Olton Hockey Club and School for Girls and later graduated from 1960, and over 39 years he served five Kay’s untimely death in 2012 altered by his two brothers and then several Copt Heath Golf Club. In retirement, Mike Birmingham University. Bruce and Pat, Headmasters. A graduate of Brasenose Harry’s life forever and increasing ill health members of the next generation. College, Oxford, he was appointed to was a Warden at Knowle Parish Church. with their four children, were the first to caused him to move closer to John in teach French by Mr H. B. Hitchens; this H. DESMOND MAIN Chris had numerous memories of the He will be greatly missed by all his many live in the new Headmaster’s House. Altrincham. (Fetherston 1939-1941) was in the Headmaster’s study in School school and anecdotes to relate. He was a friends and family. House. Many years later Harry would member of the Choir, and would regularly Pat played a full and active role in the life I will remember Harry as a winger in Des was born in Small Heath in 1924. find it most amusing, when Warden remind anyone and everyone that he of the school, especially the Boarding the staff hockey team brandishing his He later moved to Hall Green to escape of the Boarders, to find that the same once sang on BBC Radio 4. He tried out JOHN M. DAVIES House. She often accompanied Bruce stick and calling for the ball, or as a the bombing in World War II – he Headmaster’s study was now his kitchen. both the RAF and the RN sections of the (Shenstone 1938-1946) to the mountain cottage to enjoy a walk singing tree in the staff revue Stuff and vividly remembered the BSA Factory Combined Cadet Force. His attempts to with the Mountain Club, before rushing Nonsense. But mostly I will remember a being flattened in 1940. After leaving During those 39 years Harry undertook get airborne in the school glider, though At school John was a Sub-Prefect and back to school for Evensong at 6.30pm generous, humorous, caring colleague Solihull School, he joined the Royal Air several major roles, and for the last harrowing, paved the way for a love of Captain of both the Shenstone and in the Chapel. Away from the school, Pat with whom I worked so closely for many Force for war service. He was in 114th eleven years he was Second Master. aircraft, ships and all things military. He the school’s shooting teams. He was a gave valuable service to the Marriage years. Squadron, Desert Air Force from 1942, Underlying all that he did was his also developed a great ability at target Corporal in the Junior Training Corps and Guidance Council during her time at flying 78 bombing sorties while he was boundless generosity in deed and shooting whilst at the school, which he was awarded the prestigious Marksman’s Solihull (1964-1993). P. J. Griffiths still a teenager, mostly with the same spirit. He was a caring teacher, as was carried on in later years. Badge. After leaving school he joined team of four. After the War, Des worked evident from his time as Upper School the Royal Engineers, spending three We remember Pat McGowan with great as an engineer for Richard Lloyd Ltd Housemaster of Fetherston (1967-1974) As a teenager Chris learned to scuba years serving in Egypt. He later attended fondness and affection. (later Johnson Firth Brown). He was and as Warden of the Boarders. dive, a sport he continued to enjoy Birmingham University to study Chemical a keen golfer and joined Robin Hood with his father, brothers and daughters. Engineering. John and his first wife, John Loynton Golf Club in 1959. There he remained Harry became Warden in 1974 and he He started in quarries in the United Marjorie, moved to Oswestry, making one of the most active and respected moved into School House with his new Kingdom but took the opportunity to it their home for over forty years. He members right up to the end of his long wife Kay. They were to bring a real family dive on holiday in the Caribbean, Red returned to Knowle after her death and and eventful life. Des was a marvellous atmosphere to the Boarding House and Sea and across the Maldives. In his fifties married his brother Peter’s widow, Ann. raconteur of his wartime memories, and it was during their stay that both their he fulfilled his ambition to travel to Truk At 80, discovering they were too old he met regularly with former comrades children – John and Gemma – were born. Lagoon to dive down to the Japanese to hire a motorhome, they bought one, of the Solihull Air Crew Association at the Harry and his family left the Boarding fleet sunk in Operation Hailstone. and spent several happy years exploring British Legion Club. Des married his wife House in 1983 and set up home in Olton. the country. John was an adventurer, Maureen in 1947 – the year in which she Chris had a successful career in believing life did not throw up problems, was Birmingham Carnival Queen – and Harry succeeded Denis Tomlin as advertising, starting at the bottom and simply challenges. she survives him. Second Master in 1988, supporting ending up as Chairman and CEO of Headmasters Alan Lee and Patrick BHA Advertising and Marketing Ltd. He John leaves Ann, two children and four John Loynton Derham. While Harry would often joke retired in 2010 and wasted no time in stepchildren, and many grandchildren. about the more practical aspects of the pursuing a variety of hobbies including He is particularly remembered with great role, ensuring major events ran smoothly, flying, shooting, playing guitar and riding affection by his lifelong friend Leonard it was his ability to give good counsel motorbikes. Though he lived in Solihull for Chase (1938–1944). and advice that was most valued by his whole life, he also enjoyed the views, colleagues as well as Headmasters. pubs and restaurants of Dartmouth Lucy Lunt and other Devon beauty spots from his second property in Kingswear. 60 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 61

Trevor Archer served as Second Master in 1983 and, in 1987-1988, was the last teacher to be the Bursar. He was a man of great integrity – phlegmatic, The Silhillian Fund wise, logical and thorough in all he did. He visited the school occasionally after he retired and kept up his friendship with former colleagues. He was the perfect The Silhillian Fund for bursaries plays a vital part schoolmaster and we shall miss him. in the continued success of the school.

It is part of our vision for the future and it’s something I hope you will wish to support. David Lloyd (Headmaster)

WHAT IS IT ALL ABOUT? increase, we have less to give than we educated in a diverse and inclusive TREVOR ARCHER used to. Unlike many other schools, we community. If young people are to Head of Technology and Bursar The Silhillian Fund provides genuine do not use fee income to fund bursaries become adaptable, well-rounded and (1956-88) transformational opportunities for boys or scholarships. It is the School’s compassionate adults, they will benefit KENNETH C. ELLISON and girls who would benefit most intention to raise £2.5 million over the enormously from having lived alongside (1922-2019, Master 1956-1987) Trevor Archer joined the staff in 1955 to from the education the school offers, next five years to ensure that educational those whose life experiences may be teach Woodwork and Technical Drawing. irrespective of their background. opportunities at Solihull that have been very different from their own. Ken arrived at Solihull School from He became Head of Department in 1967, available in the past will also be there for Thames Valley Grammar Twickenham in presiding over the development of the WHY DO WE NEED IT? future generations. Work carried out by the Boston 1956 where he was Head of Religious “Fort” which relocated the workshops Consulting Group shows that improved Studies and Second in the English to their present position, guarding as Many of our most illustrious former WHO BENEFITS? social mobility would add an estimated 4 Department. Ken was one of the finest it were the postern gate of the school. pupils were fortunate enough to gain a per cent to our gross domestic product, scholars ever to have served on the The department when from strength free education here, either through the We all do. Increasing the number reflecting the economic impact of a staff, and his tenure as Head of English to strength under Trevor (or Dan, as he Direct Grant scheme, run by the local of bursaries we offer to bright and better-educated workforce. To recognise lasted for some 20 years; thereafter he was affectionately known by a certain authority from 1945 to 1976, or through motivated pupils makes a huge and nurture the talents of young people, continued to offer the English Department generation of pupils). As he departed, the Assisted Places scheme, which was difference, not only to the individual and for them to grow and prosper as adults, the same dedicated literary expertise a new Fort emerged, rebuilt and re- established in 1980 but abolished in their family but also to the wider school is a gift to us all. that few could challenge or rival. His equipped, a fine monument to Trevor’s Laurie Bailey, Denis Tomlin and Trevor Archer 1997. Sadly, these options are no longer community. In recent years, recipients deep love of literature led him to initiate 33 years of dedication and hard work on retirement in 1988 available to today’s pupils. of bursaries from The Silhillian Fund HOW CAN I HELP? a more extensive and worthy library in that area of the school. But that was have gone on to be outstanding student for the School and one of his proudest not all: as Mike Savage wrote, “His Thanks to the foresight and wise financial leaders, and their talents have added Become a regular donor. Bear in mind moments was when the Duchess of Kent mature judgement, confidence and planning of past Headmasters and enormous value to the curricular and co- that tax relief is available for charitable came in 1960 to open the new Kent masterly organising ability were quickly Governors the school does have an curricular life of the school. donations like these, and that the actual Library, inspired and created by Ken’s recognised, and he embarked on a series endowment, the interest on which we amount received by the school will be determination to encourage his pupils of appointments which were of great use for scholarships and bursaries. But, Regardless of background or income enhanced by Gift Aid. Or leave a legacy to develop a love of books. Ken was value to the school.” as interest rates remain low and fees level, all pupils benefit from being in your will, a gift to the future of the described by Laurie Bailey as a man of school. benign equanimity and poise, and many Perhaps the best known of these will remember him in his study, ‘The Old appointments was as Head of Middle In the last eighteen months we have Boot’ (formerly the School House Tuck School. Trevor took this position up in Abigail Kaur-Bennett, first recipient of The Denis already received pledges or one-off shop) in repose sitting in his armchair, 1973, after ten years as Deputy and Tomlin Silhillian Fund Bursary with the Headmaster donations of over £800,000 from pipe in hand reflecting on the world. All service as a Housemaster in both the individuals, families or year groups, former colleagues and pupils remember Lower and Middle Schools. helping us on the way to our target of Ken as a man of great wisdom and £2.5 million. If you are thinking of making integrity, with a wickedly dry sense of As a former RAF Spitfire pilot, Trevor regular donations, we suggest monthly humour. At 97 years of age the curtain was an invaluable officer in the RAF amounts of £10, £25, £50, £100 or £150 finally fell on the life of this outstanding section of the Combined Cadet Force, to get us to that. Your generosity will scholar and one of Solihull School’s finest and his knowledge, astute judgement help ensure that Solihull can continue to gentlemen. All Ken’s children, Richard, and experience were second to none. offer an education that transforms lives Adrian and Karen (and grandson Giles), Many Old Silhillians will remember the for future pupils, just as so many have were educated at Solihull and the Solihull Mediterranean cruises in the 1970s that benefitted in the past. community send them our deepest he organized, as well as trips to the sympathies at this time. continent and Snowdonia. Many, many Further information can be found on the

hours of work went into the Mountain school website at https://www.solsch. John Loynton Cottage in the early years under Trevor’s org.uk/giving or please contact: direction. Lucy Lunt, Director of Development and Alumni Relations [email protected] 0121 703 2898 62 THE SILHILLIAN THE SILHILLIAN 63 Donors to the Beneficiaries Silhillian Fund of Bursaries

Laurence returned to school in May 2019 for the reunion of the class of 1984, and decided to become a regular donor.

Laurence Harris and his wife Debbie

Simon Frost, Laurence, Stuart Hatton and Nigel Green

LAURENCE HARRIS (Windsor 1977-1984)

As I expected, returning to school for a class reunion brought back so many happy memories. However, what I had MICHAEL BUERK TIM FARAZMAND LAUREN HOBDAY not really prepared myself for was how (Shenstone) (Windsor 1972 -‘79) Current student quickly friendships were renewed and conversations picked up from over thirty I was at Solihull from 1955 to 1965, and In 1972 if I hadn’t received a bursary The full bursary I received for the Sixth years ago. for most of that time I was here on a I would have been unable to take up Form changed my life and enabled me I was deeply impressed by the tour of I had but might not have the financial bursary. This school gave me the most my place at Solihull. It was truly a life- to have experiences I never dreamed With each passing year, I realise how the school and by the Headmaster’s background to do so. I have joined the marvellous start in life. Bursaries don’t changing experience for me, not just in of being able to access before. I will be much I owe Solihull School. The lessons passionate explanation of the bursary regular giving scheme, and I am proud just benefit children from less privileged terms of my education and subsequent forever grateful for the kindness and that have stayed with me throughout life fund. In his address, I heard the echo that my contribution will play a part in backgrounds: they are in the best interest career but also for the lifelong friendships generosity of those who contribute to were not just those from the classroom, of the inspiration I gained from Giles helping future Silhillians thrive. of the school and the wider community. that I formed. The impact that a bursary The Silhillian Fund. It is so much more but from relationships with the rest of the Slaughter, Alan Lee, Denis Tomlin and can have cannot be underestimated than just a monetary transaction – it is a school community, in tackling the highs Phil Griffiths. It was time to give back, to true gift. Your impact on my life has been and lows of life, and by growing up in a help provide this exceptional experience immeasurable. Thank you so much. nurturing, yet realistic, environment. to young people who could benefit as

GEORGE, ARTHUR AND OSCAR HAYNES Paul has decided to leave a legacy to the school. (Pole 2002-09, 2004-11, 2008-15)

PAUL HARDMAN simply a nostalgic look back into the Our three boys really enjoyed their time at Solihull. As well as (Jago 1971-1978) past through a rose-coloured lens, but achieving academic results that enabled them to get to their a pragmatic assessment of the benefits universities of choice, they benefited hugely from a wide range Not only did I receive an excellent I have enjoyed as a consequence of my of sporting and cultural activities. None of this would have been academic education at Solihull, but I time at the school. None of this would possible without significant financial support from the school, had the opportunity, encouragement have been possible were it not for the for which we continue to be extremely grateful. George went and support to participate in a host of full scholarship I received from the local to Durham to read Mathematics and is now an actor, having extra-curricular activities and spend my authority. So it is that, some time ago, recently spent a year in a lead role in the West End; Arthur formative years in an environment that I decided to include a bequest to the studied Art at Lancaster and is now working in production at engendered self-confidence and fostered school in my will as a way to help give the BBC; and Oscar has just graduated this year from Bath a belief in high standards in all aspects the same opportunities to someone who University with a Masters in Chemistry. We are proud of what of life. I formed lifelong friendships with would benefit from the school’s unique they have achieved, but more importantly of who they have fellow pupils and learned a great deal environment and would otherwise not be become. The school played an enormously significant role in that later helped me, not just in my able to attend. both of these aspects. career, but with life in general. This isn’t Stephen Haynes 64 the silhillian The Silhillian Fund Our thanks to....

Our grateful thanks go to the following To our regular donors: Caroline Egan for their donations to The Silhillian Anne Lavery Fund in 2018/2019: Ian Baggs Jonathan Wearing Terence Davis OBE Leonard Chase The Dora and Claude Coton Estate Lawrence Harris Phil Green The Robert (Bob) Greenwood Estate Ian Nichol Ann Lee The Solihull School Parents Association Ben Perry Simon Westwood The Thomas Franks Foundation The Bate Family Michael Cutler Michael Day Anon Mark Hopton The Gummow Family Simon Ramage The Lunt/Halsey Family Gerald Breatnach The Young Family

And to all those who have so Peter Heginbotham Ben Perry generously donated this year: Nigel & Alex Heslop Henry Pinchin Peter Hooker Phil Pinto Sarah Adams Dominic Hughes Simon Ramage Martin Ayres Glynne Hughes Morgan John Sammons Steve Brumwell Graham Hughes The Hon Conrad Seagroatt Lorna Burgess John Hulse Geoff Sewell Jeremy Byrne Paul Hutchings Andrew Shepherd Gordon Campbell Chris Ingham Peter Silverman Eugene Chang Chris Jacob John Smith Eleanor Chapman Michael Jameson Robin Smith Arthur Chetwynd John Jammes Bob Standley Richard Clarke Paul Jenkins Roger Stubbs The Clarke Family Phil Johnson Charles Sweeney Pat Cupit Glynne Jones Simon Thompson Roger Cutler Leighton & Jen Jones Victoria Thorpe Thomas Dillon Robert Jones Michael Trotter Michael Dodgeon Charles & Jan Keil Prof Clive Upton Neil Donovon Su Kent Mike Vale David Eilbeck Ann Lee Geoffrey Vaughan Maurice Ellwell John Lockyer John Wall Robert Eveson Roger Mace Christopher Warren Jill Godsall Michael Maguire Charles Whitehouse Margaret & Andrew Gosling Paul Mantle Hugh Williams John Griffin Julia Marshall Peter Williams Simon & Amy Griffiths Carol McNidder Richard Willshire Philip Harding John Meek Toby Wyles Michael Hardingham Richard Meere David Young Paul Hardman Anthony Millard The Class of 1988 Gordon Harris AP Millard Laurence Harris David Morgan And to two donors who wish to remain Philip Harris James O’Gorman anonymous. Mark Harrison Michael Perks

The Silhillian Fund enables pupils from all backgrounds to fulfil their potential and in turn enables them to have a positive impact on the lives of others. A gift to the Fund is an incredible investment in a person’s academic, social and professional livelihood and wellbeing. Solihull School gave me many great memories that I will cherish, and the support of the Silhillian Fund is something for which I will always be grateful.

Sam Weighall, Head Boy 2011-2012 P E I A R S T E V E R A N

Solihull 2019 Stay connected… There are plenty of ways to keep in touch with the school and your former classmates. We are always looking for photos and stories from our alumni, assistance with careers advice and help in organising future events, so please do get in touch. Visit: https://alumni.solsch.org.uk Email: [email protected] Telephone: 0121 703 2963