The Dunelmian

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The Magazine of Durham School, 2015-16 Edition

Floreat Dunelmia INDEX

Speech6 Day 2016 A celebration of Durham School’s achievements in the 2015/16 Academic Year.

Pastoral15 Creative29 If a child lives with Durham School is a hub of encouragement, he or creativity, both in terms of she learns to be performing arts, literature, art, confident. design and technology.

Academic41 Durham School offers a wide academic range of subjects taught inside and outside the classroom.

59Sport Co-Curricular82 Our School has a well Our co-curricular activities deserved reputation for complement our curriculum to sports, individual competition help give pupils confidence and teamwork. for life.

Old94 Dunelmians And so shall we, whate’er we be, whether lawyer lacking fee, or priest, or scribe, or bold hussar, sing Floreat Dunelmia!

2015-2016 3 WELCOME WELCOME

Welcome Editor: Mr P Sturt The purpose of a school magazine is to act as an instrument of record Design: Mr A Beales for the year. Photography: Many sources including Mark Wilkinson But, much more than that, The Dunelmian serves as a celebration of the huge variety of Photography activities which take place here, and on every page you will find another aspect of our community recorded and remembered. Whether it be the sports reports, house memories The Dunelmian Magazine or another of the endeavours our pupils have been involved in, the richness of life at Published by Durham School Durham School comes spilling off the page. Quarryheads Lane, Durham City, You will, I hope, notice that we have redesigned some aspects of the magazine which DH1 4SZ I hope make it even easier to read. We have also included more examples of pupils’ 0191 386 4783 creativity in the form of extended projects, essays and artwork. My thanks must go to all Reg Charity Number of our contributors to the magazine, whether they be staff or pupils, and in particular my 1023407 thanks to Andrew Beales and Philip Sturt without whom the production of The Dunelmian would not have been possible.

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heading to Oxford and Cambridge, two to universities in the USA and a number to other top Russell group institutions. However, and I have said this before but make no apologies for Speech Day repeating myself, just as pleasing are the results of other pupils which are on the face of it more modest, but which represent a huge achievement for them. Now is not the time to get bogged Mr Chairman, distinguished guests, ladies, gentlemen, down in the technical details of Value Added Data but the ODs and current pupils, many thanks and welcome to statistic I am most proud of from last year’s results is this one: this year’s Speech Day. the value that we add to our pupils at A level based on their GCSE results puts us in the top 8% of schools nationally and the top 14% of all independent schools in the country. Daily Telegraph league table positions may be one thing, A particular welcome of course goes to our Chief Guest Peter but knowing that the School does so well in helping every Barron, journalist, columnist and (erstwhile) editor of the child reach their academic potential is quite another, so my Northern Echo and we are all looking forward to what he has congratulations go to those pupils and of course to the staff to say to us later on. Some of you may know that I am a keen who support them with such dedication and who are so follower on Twitter and one person I follow is Peter, though generous with their time. I am sure he has never noticed it. I particularly enjoy following him as every so often he will post another entry into his Headline Challenge. “They will leave us well-prepared He will outline a news story and then provide his ideal strapline for the world of university and indeed life” for the story in question.

Dating app launched just for Remain voters so they avoid Today’s leavers therefore have a tough act to follow but we awkward dates with Brexiteers...EURO THE ONE THAT I WANT have every confidence that they will leave us well-prepared Swedish footballer sent off for breaking wind during match... for the world of university and indeed life. And that’s a THEY STINK IT’S ALL OVER challenging world. We are in a time of unprecedented Farmer stages pig race over jumps to predict result of EU political instability and it is an unsettling prospect for some referendum...THE GRAND RASHER-NAL of them – today’s young people face challenges the like of Pimms Jelly replica of Buckingham Palace, with jelly corgis, which were inconceivable when I was their age. The lives, made for Queen’s 90th...FOR SHE’S A JELLY GOOOD FELLOW strengths and weakness, trials and tribulations of young people Bar opens in Soho, where drinks are served by dogs... are of course a happy hunting ground for the media and we BARKTENDER - PAW ME A JACK SPANIELS are bombarded on seemingly a daily basis with the latest story Lost property staff appeal to owner of false teeth left behind at about how youngsters these days lack character and resilience… Auckland Airport in New Zealand...GUM FLY WITH ME they lack basic skills and are leaving school unemployable… Dog called Dagger is internet hit after learning to paint pictures youngsters have phones surgically grafted to their hands, by holding brush in his mouth...PANTING BY NUMBERS and live in a cyberworld which is at the same time mind- Firemen pump water from lake to fight blaze - but hoses won’t numbing and time-sapping, as well as being terrifyingly work cos hydrant is clogged up with fish..TROUT OF ORDER dangerous. In order to combat this, schools and teachers should do more. We need to raise standards but we need to So, social media has its uses but it has its drawbacks too. In be careful about putting youngsters under too much pressure; these days of a bewildering overload of information, where they have to excel academically, but don’t forget those everyone has a voice baying to be heard, it is more vital to have important soft skills, kids these days can’t communicate and responsible journalists to cut through to the truth and cover it so on and so on and so on. fairly and without bias- particularly those stories with a local interest - and we thank him very much for his attendance today. I think – I know – the picture is much healthier than that for all youngsters, and for those at Durham School. You only have Following Peter’s Challenge, it falls to me therefore to give you to look at the breadth of achievement we are celebrating here the headlines for Durham School this year in my annual report. today, as well as those which we celebrate throughout the year, to see that pupils achieve highly. You only have to come to one TOP OF THE CLASS of the fixtures, concerts or shows to see how pupils work as a Since last year’s Speech Day we have had a season of public team, become resilient and display determination. You only need examination results. The Summer of 2015 saw some great to talk to our pupils to see their confidence, their ambition, their successes both at A level and GCSE; in the former, our A*-A rate humour and their level-headedness to know that they have the was the second highest in the School’s history, and in the latter soft skills ready to move on. They are a fine testament of course our success in the EBacc subjects, highly favoured of course I would say to the School but more importantly to you as parents, by government, was the best ever performance at the School. who provide the encouragement which helps them to realise the Chief Guest, Peter Barron Individual success stories abounded too, with three of our pupils achievements we celebrate here today.

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THE BOOT ON THE OTHER FOOT On the sporting front this year, we have enjoyed some fantastic successes across the range of sports and range of ages. The first term saw some great games of rugby, with our youngsters - small in number but big in heart – punching above their weight to record some victories against bigger local rivals – the U16s who made it into the last 8 in the Rosslyn Park cup deserve special mention, as does their amazing run of 75 matches unbeaten; at the top end the first XV too coalesced into a fearsome unit, working strongly as a team as well of course as having some outstanding individual talent. As Headmaster of course, it is my duty to stress that it is the taking part not winning which is important, but I hope I will be forgiven if I pick as my particular highlight the final kick from James Elliott’s boot against RGS Newcastle at Kingston Park back in September – sweet revenge for the narrow loss last year.

The girls too have enjoyed great success in hockey, holding their own in the ladies’ league that the firsts have participated in this year and there have been some serious victories over other schools. Rowing continues to go from strength to strength, with highlight being a record number of wins in our own Durham Regatta this year. Cricket and the firsts enjoyed an almost unbeaten season, laying waste to many big cricketing schools, but special mention goes to the U15s who made it all the way to the semi-final of the National Lords’ Taverners competition, narrowly losing to Solihull School, but finishing as one of the top four cricket teams in the country for their age.

AN INSPECTOR CALLS There were two sets of visitors to the School in the first term who came for very different purposes, but reached remarkably similar conclusions. You will know that the School has been working for a number of years now to establish a sister school overseas, principally in Dubai. Progress on that is going well, and there will be more to report I hope later in the year. As part of the work done we had a team from the UAE visit us for Mr Alasdair MacConachie, OBE, DL a few days before Christmas. With surgical precision and a Chairman of Governors relentless energy, they challenged us to distil down the essence of a Durham School education: who we are; what we aspire to achieve; how we go about realising our aims. The second group PASSING WITH FLYING COLOURS one pupil who has made that fifteen year journey, but I can think resident tutor in Pimlico House for the past two years and we of visitors – frankly less welcome, but with an important job to As well as the prizes to be given, I should announce the of no better person than to have done so than Ben Langthorne wish her well as she continues her Masters. do – were the team of School Inspectors from ISI who came to members of the Upper Sixth who have received colours this and I’d like to ask Mrs Champion, Badgers legend, to present I am pleased to say we have relatively few members of the us in October. They too poked and prodded, ticked boxes and year. Ties and badges can be collected from me later, but I with your special cufflinks in honour of the time you have spent teaching staff leaving us this year. Kirsty Wilson departed consulted policies, in order to produce their verdict on Durham am pleased to announce that full Sports colours for Cricket at Durham. earlier in the year to spend more time with her young family; School. Whatever the faults of the inspection process – and go to Luke Henderson. Half colours go to Katherine Pears, Kirsty joined us in 2011 as a Maths teacher and brought some there some – certainly by the end of their time with us they Lucy Mcillroy, Zara Alexander and Ellie Heydon. For rowing, PARTING IS SUCH SWEET SORROW youthful enthusiasm into the department. She grew quickly could identify what made us distinctive and what we did well. full colours to Emily Soppitt and Jodie Cameron. As in every year, there are some people who have been part of into an excellent teacher and no doubt will be an asset to the And what did both of these processes find? Well, as I said, our community who leave us. Whether they have been with us profession when she returns to it. I would also like to thank remarkable similarities. The team from Dubai identified a Full music colours go to Ed Arthur & Fred Enticknap with half for a year or for a lifetime, they each have made a difference Ian Casey for his work in the Maths department this year as school with a strong sense of place – one with rich connections to Frank Xiao Sheng. Full School colours, which recognise a to the School and take our fond best wishes with them wherever cover for Kirsty and we wish him well for the future. to the city, the Cathedral and the university – but also a school contribution to school life across the board, go to Ben O’Neill they are moving on to. with its own heritage. 602 years of history have given the School and Iain Choyce. Also moving on this year is Kirsty Lowery. Kirsty came to us in a strong sense of its own values and those values lead to, I would like to thank Juliet Inverdale and Rebecca Melville for April 2010 after having had some experience with us in supply amongst other things, what both sets of visitors saw – excellent It has become a tradition to reward those of you who have made their work in houses over the past year, and wish them luck work. Kirsty rapidly established herself as an excellent teacher of pastoral care. it all the way from Badgers to the U6. Rather sadly there is only for their future careers. We bid farewell to Esther Hitchens as chemistry with much valued expertise as a senior examiner for

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OCR. Over her time her she became assistant housemistress in of the School and Bow beyond the Bairds seems unimaginable; Pimlico, working with Kath Rochester and more recently she took their three children were all educated here and their connection oversight of international pupils both at the admission stage and with us will remain strong as they move into their retirement. when they arrived. Kirsty has been instrumental in our holiday That retirement they will spend divided between Yorkshire and language courses and also the Chinese Exchange which was France and we wish them the very best for the future. Finally, introduced with great success in 2014. Kirsty leaves to continue and moving to our other retiring couple, Lucy Hewitt came to her international endeavours by moving overseas herself, taking us as Lucy Cresswell in 1990 to teach History and to be the up a post of Chemistry teacher at Epsom College in Malaysia. Housemistress of Pimlico. In her letter of appointment, Michael We wish her well. Lang required her to cover the “spiritual, moral, academic, cultural and physical welfare” of the girls in Pimlico and this she Ben Mason joined us in 2004 as Director of Sport. Over the did with diligence and care for 15 years – she is Pimlico House’s past 12 years here has guided the games at Durham School longest serving housemistress to date, and the house owes with skill and tenacity, further cementing our reputation as a much of its success to Mrs Hewitt’s tenure. School which punches hugely above its weight not only in terms of achievement but in its levels of participation. One of his roles Richard Hewitt is the final member of the teaching staff who STEALTH CONFIDENCE saw his value as a liaison officer - then he received his British of course has been to coach the first XV and he has instrumental began working with us in the seventies. Starting as a part I had the pleasure of attending our Jack Marsden Public commission. After the war he entered the Consular service in its successes, with the U18s reaching the NatWest final in time teacher, Richard became full time in 1980 as a teacher Speaking competition earlier in the year. The competition and in the Second War was one of the first British diplomats to 2006 semi-final, Ben has also played an important part in of Geography and a rowing coach. Richard had been an was set up to commemorate Jack who had been Chaplain recognise the importance of General de Gaulle and advise recruiting pupils into the School – not just rugby players – and accomplished rower himself, and was both Captain and the and Deputy Head at the School, being with us for 35 years. the Foreign Office to take note of him. In some ways Robert monitoring the development of sportsmen and women. He has principal coach of the Hild Bede rowing club at Durham and It was a really enjoyable evening but I was struck by one of Parr sums up the qualities of the ideal Dunelmian. Brave, also provided us with some of the more entertaining moments brought that expertise to bear on the Wear for School. As well the entrants who spoke on the subject of Stealth Confidence. committed, resourceful, perhaps prepared to bend the rules in Chapel and few will forget the sight of his dressed as an air as his contribution in the classroom, Richard quickly became The speaker, who I won’t embarrass…., he spoke how a little, but perceptive and principled. Somebody who is hostess to launch the ski trip this year. Ben leaves us to pursue involved in the Royal Navy section of the CCF, a role he has Durham School enacted its unofficial motto – Confidence for prepared to support his colleagues and his friends, even his interest in Global Bridge, an exciting new start-up venture, continued up until the present day. During his time with us Life – in quite a subtle, almost unnoticed way. By providing when obstacles are in his way. and we wish him the best of luck with that. Richard was instrumental in developing the ICT skills in the our pupils with opportunities on the sports field, on the stage, department and his breadth of knowledge, particularly in in CCF or indeed in the Exhibition Room in a public speaking So my final headline is the title of one of Hodgson’s poems – Our departing staff may be few in number but they are great in fieldwork, has been invaluable. Richard’s time spent on Durham competition, in all these ways the School built pupils confidence. Dunelmia Mater Nostra – Durham, Our Mother. Hodgson service. Retiring this year are two couples, literally, of teachers School’s sailing has been equally successful, and even in We challenge the pupils, we encourage them, nag, cajole, wrote it in 1913 to celebrate the friendships he had had at who have a combined service of 32 and 73 years respectively. my time here we have had notable performances in national whatever is necessary to get the pupils to engage. It’s something Durham School. The words of the poem have resonance Nick and Sue Baird came to lead Bow School in 2000 and competitions, outperforming many bigger schools on those I am sure that, parents, you can see in your own sons and particularly to those of you here today who will go on to sixteen years ago Bow was a very different place. It was a stages. Today Richard and Lucy leave us not only as members daughters – it’s something I can see in my children here – celebrate the lifelong friends you made at school and the traditional boys’ prep school with pupils coming up to Durham of staff but as parents, as William finishes his time in the U6 and it’s certainly something I can see as a Head when I experiences you shared and I can think of no better way in Year 9. The echoes of boarding were still strong, with Nick too. We wish them all the very best for their retirement. speak to the pupils. to end the Speech Day than with Hodgson’s poem: and Sue still living above the shop, and hard to believe now, Saturday morning lessons. As a team, and they are very much a Finally on staff matters, one of the teaching staff this year But it’s not new. Our School has had a long history of providing DUNELMIA MATER NOSTRA team, Nick and Sue have overseen huge changes there through reaches a milestone of 25 years’ service. She has been a hugely opportunities to its pupils and encouraging them in the service Oh Durham’s three tall towers, to the coeducational day school from three to eleven we know committed member of staff and run the girls’ games programme of others, whether it be the School, university, the armed forces Behold the tides of men now. More than that though, they have become the embodiment for … years. So, I’d like to invite Mrs Kim Dougall to come and or society at large. Whenever I meet an Old Dunelmian, they Flow from their silent waters collect a token of our appreciation. take great pleasure in recalling how the school challenged them. To seas beyond our ken; And I don’t mean hard beds and cold food, I mean challenging They gazed on us, my brothers, What other headlines are fitting for our year at Durham School? them to take responsibility for themselves and to work with other And we were happy then. people too. FAIL TO PLAN, PLAN TO FAIL Our footsteps, oh my brothers, We have spent a good deal of time planning for the future. This brings me to my final highlight of the year was the visit of In pleasant paths were set, Earlier in the year we launched our development plan where Charlotte Zeepvat and Christopher Hodgson to Durham School With pleasures to remember, we set out our ideas to make Durham School even better and last month. Charlotte is the biographer of Noel Hodgson OD And sorrows to forget; the leading boarding school in the northeast. They focussed on and Christopher his great-nephew. They came and spoke to us Deep draught of love and laughter our academic achievements and our aspiration to become a in the School House Common Room – Noel’s old house – about A cup without regret ….. beacon school for teaching and learning. Now we are focussing his life and in particular his death which occurred exactly one on our capital development; we have recently appointed a new hundred years ago yesterday, on the battlefield of the Somme. Time is the strong destroyer Development Director, Mr Andrew Beales, who will help us It was a fascinating evening but one anecdote she told was Of much that heaven sends, formulate our strategy for fundraising so that we can make our particularly striking; it was not about Hodgson himself, but about And cherished treasures daily facilities the envy of other schools in the region. Watch this space a contemporary of his called Robert Parr. Robert entered School Draw to their destined ends; for more news there. House as a King’s Scholar in September 1907. On the outbreak But youth shall live for ever of war he volunteered for the British Army and was turned down In the trusty grip of friends. But, the headline which I would use to sum up Durham School is owing to poor eyesight. So he went to the Serbian Consulate one which I have – perhaps like the best journalists – stolen from in London and talked his way into the Serbian army and fought Floreat Dunelmia. somebody else. in Serbia until he was noticed by British representatives who William Noel Hodgson MC, (S, 1905-11)

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The Richardson Bunbury Prize for Modern Languages (French) Ben O’Neill B.S. L6 Psychology Prize Jayne Etherington The Richardson Bunbury Prize for Modern Languages (German) L6 Theatre Studies Prize The Bishop Lee Prize for Religious Studies L6 Photography Prize Sam Johnston The Chaplain’s Prize L6 Computer Studies Prize shared The Vernon Ferens Community Service Award L6 Computer Studies Prize shared Chloe Readman-Bell The Green Prize for Classics L6 Business Studies Prize Josh O’Brien The Greek Prose Prize The Design & Realisation Prize The Hodgson Prize for English Alexander Smith L6 Chemistry Prize Michael Banks The Reader Prize for Spanish L6 Biology Prize Will Bowles The Gough Prize for English Verse The Raynor Prize for Religious Studies Louis Dinsdale The Gawan-Taylor Prize for English Essay L6 Mathematics Prize Miranda Li The Senior Theatre Studies Prize Beth Snegir The Bell Prize for Politics Christopher Page The Senior Prize for Drama L6 Economics Prize Simon Sebban The Senior Prize for Music shared L6 Classical Civilisation Prize Matthew Storey The Senior Prize for Music shared Edward Arthur B.S. L6 PE Prize Emma Willmott The Marsden Public Speaking Trophy (Senior) The Stationers’ Prize for Printing shared Aydin Simsek K.S. The Robson Prize for Outstanding Contribution to the Sixth Form The Stationers’ Prize for Printing shared Sebastian Baldwin The Ian Nuttall Prize for Biology Iain Choyce K.S. Yr 11 Prize for Academic Achievement Adam Morris The Metcalf Prize for Mathematics Yr 11 Prize for Academic Achievement Ben Pulman K.S. The Mitchell Prize for Service to the School The Middle School Drama Cup The Senior Prize for Economics Ming Yang The Middle School Prize for Music shared The Prize for Excellence and Endeavour in Learning The Middle School Prize for Music shared Kari Dougall The Senior Prize for Art shared The Special Prize for Services to Drama Alexander Blackett-Sneath The Senior Prize for Art shared Rory Jackson The Junior Art Prize Georgina Brown The Ker Memorial Prize for Ancient History and Classical Civilisation William Hewitt Katem Prize for Endeavour in Learning shared Deanna Lowery The Durham University Prize Yr 10 Prize for Academic Achievement Hal Burke K.S. The C.H.A. Howe Prize for Practical Skills Yr 10 Prize for Academic Achievement Jeff Zhang The Senior Photography Prize Edward Carr The Junior Prize for English Recitations Dominic Gaines K.S. The Connor Prize for Armed Forces Scholarships Emily Bateson-Roseberry Cecil Yuill Prize for Academic Progress Yr 10 Joseph Hogan The Senior Business Studies Prize Patrick Fawcett Cecil Yuill Prize for Academic Progress Yr 10 John Moody The Henry Smith Prize for Physics Alexandra Grecoe The Marsden Public Speaking Trophy (Intermediate) David Gardiner The Senior Psychology Prize Thomas Hardern Yr 9 Prize for Academic Achievement David Hardern K.S. The Sidney Dunn Prize for High Achievement in Digital Media Vivi Lauslahti Yr 9 Prize for Academic Achievement Ross Sime K.S. The Peter Lee Prize for International Pupils Leezum Lepcha Cecil Yuill Prize for Academic Progress (Yr 9) Katelyn Heslop The Tristram Prize for Academic Excellence in Science Kai Yu Leung Cecil Yuill Prize for Academic Progress (Yr 9) Guy Oliver The Senior Politics Prize Didara Malgarayeva Yr 8 Prize for Academic Achievement Zoe Banks The Reader Trophy for Leadership Katherine Pears Yr 8 Prize for Academic Achievement Freya Court K.S. The Senior Additional Mathematics Prize Rowan Rochester The Johnson Perkins Prize for Fieldwork in Jessica Bramwell Katem Prize for Endeavour in Learning shared Stephanie Yipeng Biology in the Removes The Senior Prize for English Recitations Emily Soppitt Cecil Yuill Prize for Academic Progress (Yr 8) Holly Coupe The Portwood Prize for Computer Studies Charlotte Stone Cecil Yuill Prize for Academic Progress (Yr 8) Monica Speed The Senior PE Prize Gabriella Tunstall Yr 7 Prize for Academic Achievement James Green K.S. The Ker Memorial Prize for Modern History Jacob Weightman The Keeton Prize for Removes Music The Fred Hurrell Prize for Music shared Jodie Cameron The Bell Twins Prize in the Lower Remove The Fred Hurrell Prize for Music shared Yr 7 Prize for Academic Achievement Pranav Sambamoorthi K.S. The Special Prize for Excellence in English Helena Campbell B.S. The Removes Prize for English Recitations The Jackson Prize for Latin Prose The Junior Drama Cup The Scott Latimer Prize for Modern Languages (French) Cecil Yuill Prize for Academic Progress (Yr 7) Lottie Holmes The Scott Latimer Prize for Modern Languages (German) Cecil Yuill Prize for Academic Progress (Yr 7) Asia Koltai Newton L6 Physics Prize Nurul Fadilah The Marsden Public Speaking Trophy (Junior) Maya Hood K.S. The Scott Latimer Prize for Modern Languages (Spanish) The Robin Myerscough Cup for Singing Beth Snegir L6 Art Prize shared Alexander Smith The Chadeyron Music Competition Dolly He L6 Art Prize shared Will Gray The Lowson and Salkeld Prize for Chemistry Kirstie Kirkley K.S. L6 Geography Prize Dominic Scott B.S. The Morley-Wells Prize for Geography The Tom Percival Prize for History The Headmaster’s Prize

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Pastoral

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Talks that I will remember especially include Nurul Fadilah’s personal reflection on Ramadan, the Year 9 Geographers on “As a community, we have raised over World Ocean Day, Phil Smith, Mr Burke and Miss Yates’ reflections £2,000 in chapel collections this year” on loss and the time when the sixth formers stood on eggs in From the Chapel without breaking them! Chaplaincy events outside the usual round of services have included confirmation classes, culminating in the confirmation of Sam Gordon and Elys Hutchinson in St Oswald’s Church in June, Chaplain and a new meditation and mindfulness group. It has also been a real privilege to preside at the weddings of ODs in Chapel and The Chapel has continued to be at the heart hear lots of fond memories from many years ago. of life at Durham School throughout this year, As a community, we have raised over £2,000 in chapel from my licensing as Chaplain in September collections this year, which has been split between the British Heart to the Speech Day Service in July. Foundation, Christian Aid, the Children’s Cancer Fund (of the Great North Children’s Hospital), Book Aid International, Cancer It has been a huge privilege to be a part of this Research UK and the Mental Health Foundation. This is on top fantastic School community and share in the joys of other fundraising activities in Houses throughout the year. and the challenges of life together. As always many people deserve to be thanked for their significant Highlights of the year include the annual acts of contribution to Chapel, above and beyond the call of duty, these remembrance for those who have lost their lives in include Godfrey Hedley OD, Mrs Proud, Mr Muttitt, Mr Hays and war, the heritage open weekend, the many Cathedral Ben O’Neill. services, the visiting speakers, and the Bow Nativity and Carol Services in Chapel. Father Simon

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March 17 brought on the commencement of Durham School’s academic achievements. At the risk of omitting one or two, fantastic production of Grease at the Gala Theatre. While this I would offer this snapshot of the House to congratulate was most definitely a School production, many roles were filled some of those individuals. Early in the year, Kristian Wood by Bungites including an almost inappropriately attired André [LR] and Isaiah Jones [UR] were selected to trial for ISFA Robson as Teen Angel, Alex Kobylka as Eugene, Lewis Miller as under-thirteen squad, while Isaiah has been further selected Johnny Casino while I tackled the demands of Danny Zuko – a to attend the North of England trials for the ISFA. Piers role some said I have been playing for seventeen years. It was Oxenham [UR] is to be commended on his sterling performance a convincing and memorable theatrical experience, and I hope in the National Biathlon. Billy Marsden [UV] was part of the one that junior boys in the House will look to develop next year. winning team in the Regional Championships in the Royal Society of Chemistry Top of the Bench competition. The last week of the Easter Term saw the House Rugby take Congratulations go to Alexander Dryden, Nathaniel Evans, place, and all are to be commended on their contribution to Saki Kaitoga, and Cameron Keanurico [UV] and the rest of the Bungite effort in some tough matches; in particular, the the under-sixteen VII squad on reaching the quarter-finals in Removes, UV and VI Form teams are to be commended on their the National Sevens’ competition at Rosslyn Park in March. fine victories, helping the House to gain overall first place once Equally, members of the first VII performed well, reaching the again. It is particularly good to note that since the competition’s Vase bowl. An exceptional mention goes to a recent recruit to return to School life, the House is yet to lose the VI-Form cup. the House, Reece Amir [UV], on being selected to represent England under 16s Rugby Union. Congratulations go to The Summer Term inevitably brought the distraction of André Robson on his selection in the North of England Rugby examinations, and the House turned its attention to preparation development camp, as well as to Garry Izomor and Joshua to attempt to answer possibly the most intriguing question in the and revision. On the one hand, this makes for a quiet term. The Pratt [UVI] on their victory in the Chester 7s Competition. School - which House is the smartest? To this end, a champion second half saw a return visit by Rupesh Borade from Mumbai; Henning Köncke [LV], one of our international arrivals, took was sought from each House to participate in a spelling bee, Rupesh was joined by Prajwal Pansare, and both boys spent three various rivers by storm and, in fact, had a delayed start after School House a wonderful opportunity to demonstrate knowledge and skill weeks at the School learning English and developing their cricket competing and achieving gold in the Youth Olympic Training in handling some of the English language’s trickier words. skills. It was a delight to welcome both boys to Bungites and see Regatta in Berlin. As a pupil who has been through the House since While Pimlico emerged victorious with an accurate knowledge how quickly they became part of the community. the Lower Remove, I can certainly say that this has of ‘diarrhoea’ [or, if you prefer, ‘diarrhea’], the competition Watersports seemed to be our strong point early on in the year been one of the most successful years in recent provided a gruelling challenge to some of the School’s keenest The final week of the school year is always packed full of action with Edward Carr who gained second place in the Pico class at Bungite history. minds. More importantly, the service told of the decision of for younger years, fuelled with the excitement of leaving for the the RN Sailing Regatta, while William Hewitt took first place in the one former spelling bee-er’s honesty after correcting a judge’s summer holidays. Bungites brought home gold once again in Bosun class for the fourth time in successive years. Developing A strong team of five School Monitors were chosen to put the mishearing. The boy’s decision was not only a triumph for the the Inter-House Athletics competition at Maiden Castle. A very a familial nautical theme, Alexander Carr [UR] gained his Royal House in extremely capable hands. These were Edward Carr, virtue of honesty but also for doing the right thing freely and impressive relay team of Cameron Keanurico [UV], Joe Nordli Yachting Association level 2 certificate, and doubtlessly will take Lewis Miller, Gabriel Lewis, Joshua Pratt and me. With the help from a belief in the rightness of telling the truth – an example and Simon Turnbull [LVI], and Harry Pearson [UVI] are to be the helm abandoned by his brother. Finally, in the closing weeks of the four House Monitors, and Lewis Miller as Deputy Head to us all in moral decision-making. congratulated on breaking the School record by 2.5 seconds. of the year Aydin Simsek and Sebastian Baldwin [LVI] received of House, 2015-16 has been made a memorable year for all I am also pleased to report that the ever-impressive House Staff various awards and nominations for the Durham Eye, including involved. As ever, the start of the academic year brought many The final week of the Christmas term saw the commencement relay team returned the trophy for the seventh year in a row. nominations for best business and environmental strategies. Both new faces to the House from both near and far, bringing with of the dreaded [at least by most] Dunelm Run. Once again, The Saturday of Speech Day saw the House cricketers in action; Aydin and Sebastian were awarded the title of Young Journalist them a range of talents, gifts, and characters. Bungite grit was demonstrated to the full, helping the House to despite some clear ability in the team, victory was sadly not to Showing Exceptional promise, and travelled to London to overall victory, having gained second place in the Removes, third be ours. spend a day at The Telegraph office working with Simon Heffer. The new faces soon began to blend in with the others as the in the Swainston, and a clear first place in the senior Dunelm. Everyone in the House is given such talents, but it is what we House Music competition was approaching with speed. This Once again, my thanks go to all runners, both élite and As always the House BBQ was a very enjoyable evening, this choose to do with them that matters. is an opportunity for those with musical flair to showcase their determined, but particular mention must go to Edward James year celebrating the theme of Star Wars. Stormtroopers, Jedis, talent whilst also bringing the whole House to sing in unison [UR], Rory Jackson [UVI] and Henning Köncke [LV] on their and the occasional Wookie populated the event, while Princess As the year comes to an end, it is essential that I offer my – a challenge for any House, let alone Bungites. Our unison outstanding finishing positions. This victory provided a perfect Leia was expertly exhibited by Mrs Alderson AND Lewis Miller in thanks to Dr Alderson for being an exceptional leader in what song this year was Eye of the Tiger, and the hymn Jerusalem. entrée to the House Supper where we were able to celebrate a frightening spot-the-difference competition. An extraordinary is an amazing House and a brotherhood. My thanks go to Mrs Unfortunately, the hours of practice, gusto and an extraordinary the term’s achievements and the talents of a few brave men and turn of events saw the return of the Millennium Falcon, Alderson for her unwavering support and contribution to the emphasis on diction were not enough for the Bungites to bring women. It was a true delight to witness the Headmaster relive competently piloted by Edward Carr as Han Solo; this was an House. I say thank you to the House that has served me and home the overall win. Nevertheless, my thanks go to all the boys his youthful experiences in a Liverpudlian band and they will outstanding testimony to all Edward’s designs and builds over my contemporaries well over the last seven years, and I am for all they contributed to help Lewis and me in the preparation never be forgotten – and, sadly, nor will his eerie falsetto and his time in the House. extremely honoured to have led these boys through what has for what is always an extremely stressful part of the year. This his rendition of the BeeGees classic Stayin’ Alive. been an amazing year. year’s part-song deserves a special mention; our inventive A very special mention goes to Mr Hewitt as he leaves us this year rendition of Stand By Me with Beautiful Girl brought home the The Easter Term had barely begun before we were required after being part of the School for over 37 years, spending the last I offer my best wishes to the boys who have left us as Old silverware for the second year running while our idiosyncratic to demonstrate our prowess once again. A convincing win in eleven years as a VI-Form tutor in the School House. On behalf Dunelmians this year, and good luck to those remaining in [for which read ‘unusual’] choreography brought the crowd the first stages of the House Basketball against the Caffinites of Bungites, I thank Mr Hewitt for his immense contribution to the Bungites for 2016-17. Finally, may I wish William Bowles the to their feet to score a brilliant 30/30 points. was soon forgotten about, after narrowly missing out in the House and I wish him an extremely happy retirement. very best of luck for next year as the newly appointed Head of final by two points in the dying minutes against Poole House. School House and good luck to Alexander Smith as Head of the While not normally regarded a focal event of the year, Nevertheless, the House rightly regained confidence after Throughout the year, there were many and varied individual School. Floreat Dunelmia! Wednesday 20 November witnessed the House Chapel service. achieving first place in the annual House Swimming Gala at achievements by boys throughout the House; these ranged from We took a slightly different approach than normal and decided Durham’s Freeman’s Quay. sporting triumphs, to musical performances and A. R. Anderson, Head of House

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We had a fun House night out to Spags and we made the time to make the week special for everyone around us. Pimlico House Girls were thrilled to receive small messages and treats from others and the Year 13 tutor group enjoyed surprising It has been a real privilege this year to be Head of Pimlico House and work alongside Miss Hinde with a lovely bouquet of flowers. As always we such a wonderful group of students and staff. entered World Book Day and other theme events taking place in School with enthusiasm and we hosted several Chapel services throughout the year informing the School about a range of interesting topics.

All of us in Pimlico really appreciate the support and help of our staff team and know we wouldn’t be as happy and successful without their help and wise advice. We thank Miss Hinde (Y13), Mrs Turnbull (Y12), Mrs Eccleston (Y11), Miss Parking and Mrs Wood (Y10), Mr Casey (Y9) and Miss Bayliss (Y7&8) as our Tutor team this year. Mrs Wood was appointed as Deputy Housemistress in January and we wish her well in her role next year. A big thank you to Mrs Rochester, our Housemistress who is always there to support us and ensure we are all happy.

This year has been a very special one for Matron; she has worked at Durham School for 25 years both as Matron in Pimlico but before that as one of the cleaning staff. Matron looks after us all really well and is always there for us in the House whatever time of day or night. As part of ‘Feel Good Week’ in February, we gave Matron a special surprise. Along with a bouquet of flowers we included an Invitation to London for the day to take in the sights and see Mamma Mia at the theatre with the House in May. The Monitor team of Kirstie Kirkley, Gabi Matthews, On the sporting front, we have not won as many trophies this Excitement grew and the big day finally came. 30 girls, Martha Bradley, Beth Snegir, Didara Malgarayeva and I year but we have had some excellent performances. Well done 5 staff and Matron caught the 7.00am train to London have worked very hard throughout the year and with to the Emma Willmott and Orla Jackson winning the Dunelm and had a fabulous day. An open top bus tour proved complementary range of skills, we have tackled many Run for the Senior and Inters age groups respectively. We also interesting but after half an hour in a traffic jam we got challenges. We all remember our first day or night at Durham played really well on the hockey pitch, beating Macleod in off and walked along the Thames upto Covent Garden. School be it in Year 7 for Kirstie, Gabi and Martha, Y10 for the Senior and Inters age groups and also winning the inters The weather was hot and despite us all wearing our winter Beth and I and Y12 for Didara so we knew how important it netball. As usual, the swimming gala is met with trepidation North East clothes and melting, we enjoyed lunch and was for us to provide a warm welcome to our 23 new girls and with our small team, we tried our best but unfortunately shopping in Covent Garden. The highlight of the day and offer regular support to them to ensure they settled well, this was not good enough to retain the trophy. was seeing Mamma Mia at the Novello Theatre. We all enjoyed Durham School and the House and made friends. enjoyed the show especially the sing along at the end To accommodate increasing numbers of boarders, we opened Pimlico House is well known for its close community and this and it was so good to see Matron and the House having 7 new boarding rooms over the top of Macleod. The paint is very evident at our House celebrations at the House Suppers so much fun. was barely dry when the boarders moved in and they have and the House Barbecues. House Colours are awarded along been a very welcome addition to the House offering very with other awards and fun presentations. Our House Barbeque Once back at School, we all had to settle down to revision modern accommodation. followed a neon theme this year and with all our girls and staff and exams, especially those girls in Year 11, 12 and 13. clad in the brightest of outfits we had great fun celebrating It is always a tough time but it seems that everyone worked With House Music being in October, we didn’t have long to our achievements, saying thank you and sending our good hard and I hope they achieve the grades they need. prepare our part song and House song. Rehearsals started wishes to those who are leaving us. Our highlight was a Photo During the summer term the House seemed very quiet with promptly in September with Kirstie Kirkley and Beth Snegir our Booth in which we all had much fun. During the year, we said many of us on study leave. The younger girls made up musical directors, leading proceedings very professionally goodbye and thank you to Ms Lowery as Junior Housemistress for this, taking on extra responsibilities in the House and and calmly. They inspired us with confidence and on the night, in Pimlico and wish her well in her new job at Epsom College maintaining a healthy noise level! Pimlico performed brilliantly. ‘Make me a channel of your in Malaysia. We also sent Mrs Turnbull off on maternity leave peace’ our hymn was performed with precision and emotion, with our best wishes and Miss Hitchin, our Resident Tutor who I wish to thank everyone in Pimlico for a hugely successful ‘Life is Rosy’ our part song showcased some hidden talents has helped to look after our boarders so well has left us to and enjoyable year and pass on my best wishes to Anu and we gave it all we had as a House in ‘We are golden’, concentrate on her PhD studies. and her team of Monitors, Charlotte, Selena and Nurul our House song. We WON for the first time in 8 years; none for next year. of our girls had ever won House Music and it was a superb Feel Good Week, took place once again in February when and unforgettable moment this year. girls had the opportunity to surprise their secret friend. Rowan Rochester, Head of House

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The Caffinites In the winter term, the whole House was delighted to It was always going to be a challenge to maintain or even exceed the high participate in inter-house cross country, with highlights “I am in no doubt that Caffinites will get being Observatory Hill and Farmer’s Field. Despite many even stronger next year” standards of the House set by last year. attempts to avoid the dreaded run, the boys pulled together giving their all for the House and doing themselves justice showing impressive house spirit. Following a trend from However, I believe we have achieved this. This was only House music came around quickly this year with the boys previous years, the fastest runner in the School came from possible due to the charisma, effort and enthusiasm shown throwing themselves into it, resulting in the House bonding Caffinites with James Hughes effortlessly dominating the by the boys across all aspects of school life. and coming together. Even though the event was not at the Dunelm run from start to finish. As he is only in Year 11, Sage, it did not mean that the competition was at all less fierce this bodes well for the future- no pressure James. This year we have been fortunate to have numerous leaders and as is tradition, the result was controversial. Caffinites won in the Upper VI - James Elliott captained the 1st XV, Jonny two out of the three categories (a great achievement especially House suppers saw the return of clash of clans, this time Hedley captained the 2nd XV, James Hewison lead the Durham for a boys’ house) yet only managed second place. Not even round the competition was ‘gaming’ with each year group Knights in basketball, Alex Smith captained the 1st XI hockey Mr Fordyce can work this one out! Part song performed ‘On competing at a different game. This saw the comeback of team and Ryan Bewick was the Head of the Boat Club. top of the world’ by Imagine Dragons which was expertly led ‘Just Dance’ and the Upper VI were more than impressed by Ben Pullman who worked tirelessly late into the evenings. by Mr Thomson’s moves. I would like to thank my deputy Euan Gardiner for all of the This year’s unison, ‘Don’t stop me now’ by Queen and the help when trying to maintain some kind of order. We were also hymn ‘Shine Jesus shine’ was led by Phil Smith whose effort Sports day saw the majority of the House participating at lucky to have a strong monitor team this year in the House, cannot be faulted. Maiden Castle endeavouring to win events in the sunshine. consisting of Iain Choyce and Ben O’Neill as Deputy Heads The boys were humble in both victory and magnanimous of school with Ali Denby and Alex Smith also in the monitor in defeat, it was very pleasing to see such a high level of body. They have all contributed well to the house in all aspects sportsmanship. A special mention must go to Ethan O’Kane of school life and made my job much easier. who won the Victor Ludorum award for the most successful male athlete due to success in the high jump and numerous The Clan system has made impressive steps forward this year track events. with regular meetings and Clan competitions. Torridon were the Clash of Clans champions this year and took part in events I am in no doubt that Caffinites will get even stronger from Pictionary to ginger bread house decorating. A highlight next year as I leave it in the more than capable hands however was Clan Quidditch which captured the imagination of Alasdair Richardson who takes over as head of house. of many who enjoyed the round robin which consisted of The monitor body for 2016-17 is dominated by seven friendly yet intense competition. Caffinites including Matthew Storey as Deputy Head of School; I know they will do all in their power to make We have had varied success in inter-house competitions sure the House has another successful year. however the Year 7s had an outstanding year winning almost everything that they were entered. They settled into a warm Floreat Dunelmia! house environment, gelling as a year group and have a bright future after such a dominant first year. Jacob Weightman, Head of House

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overall and a special well done to Kari Dougall and Lottie Juniors so well done to them. I would also like to thank the Holmes who both won their races. However, we would not Inters and the Seniors as I know that they both tired very hard, MacLeod House have won had it not been for everyone who took part, so but unfortunately Pimlico was just too good. thank you to all the fabulous MacLeod girls. MacLeod House has had a very busy year winning Also a special mention should go to Charlotte Stone and Then came House Suppers and this year we decided to do Imogen Hurst who both gave their hockey debut that day. Then various events throughout the throughout different MacLeod’s Got Talent where every Year group had to do a came the second inter house competition, this time each year age groups. small performance. We had Year 7s dancing, Year 8s doing group had to build a den. Each person who took part gave a Strictly Come Dancing, Year 9s doing Snow White and Seven donation to help raise money for Save the Children. This was The first event of this year was House Music, this was the Dwarfs, Year 10s playing fluffly bunnies, Year 11s singing 12 a very close competition between Year 13s and Year7s, but in best event of the year for me as everyone pulled together days of Christmas, Year 12s singing around the piano and the end the 7s took the prize. and sang wonderfully. I was so proud of them all. And a finally Year 13s doing a video based on a day in MacLeod. massive thank you to Jodie Cameron who composed Part Every Year group did well but I have to say that there are two Thursday 30 June was a great day for Macleod as we won Song and everybody within it as we came joint 1st highlights for me; the first was the Year 9s performance for every Year group section at Sports Day and a special mention with Caffinites featuring Miss Watchman as Snow White, great outfits and to Lucy Mcllroy who won all of her races and won the girls an original song written by the cast. The second highlight trophy for athletics. This year we had a few inter house competitions and the was Year 13s video about a day in And we also won all of the house rounders that day. So well first one was the pumpkin competition. Everyone had to the House I know that we all had great fun filming it and I done to everyone who took part; particularly to all of the Year carve their own pumpkins at home and then they bought hope that Macleod enjoyed watching it, including the staff 11s and 13s that came back to join in following exams. them in and Mrs Thompson and Mrs Abbott were the judges. who were good sports. Well done to Lucy Kirk, Laura Mitchelson, Lottie Holmes and This year has been a great year for MacLeod and I’m so Fern Hodgeson for some excellent pumpkin carving. House Swimming was the next event and well done to everyone thankful to everyone that has participated in all of the events. The second event of the year was House Netball where who took part as once again MacLeod won. There are two I wish everyone the best of luck for next year, especially Fiona overall MacLeod won. I would just like to give a small mention “This year has been a great year for people who I would like to thank and these are Lucy Kirk who Sime as she takes over as Head of House, and I hope that to Imogen Nicholson who did some amazing defending for won all of her races and took charge of the event, and Jo MacLeod can keep up the winning. the juniors. MacLeod and I’m so thankful to everyone Heron who quickly put on my swimming costume and divided that has participated in all of the events” into the pool to save MacLeod’s relay. Floreat Dunelmia! The third event was the event that MacLeod House dreaded, House Cross-country and despite the fear, Macleod won The next event was House Hockey, which was only won by the Gabriella Tunstall, Head of House

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Poole House This year Poole House has been the smallest of the three boys’ houses, which I think has allowed us to all form closer and more personal relationships with one another - not only as the pupils, but also with all the members of staff.

The House has been a very strong, respectful and happy environment throughout the year, which has made my job a very easy one. Once again, we have had an extremely successful year, referring to all areas including academics, sports, music and drama, whether that being individual successes or as part of a team. There is no doubt that all of this success has been strongly encouraged and enabled by the leaders in the house. Mr Reith as Housemaster, along with the other members of staff, create a very positive attitude by keeping in close contact with their respective pupils allowing us to excel in all areas of school life. Furthermore, the House Monitor team has been flawless this year. There have been many jobs to be covered, from duties on a night to organising every event from House Music to House Barbecues, event, similarly to the house music, is seen as one of the largest, There have also been so many exciting things to do this year. The Our U6th tutors this year, Mr Brownlee and Mrs Melville, have and I am extremely grateful to the team for always being where due to the whole house having to participate - except for those boarders’ activities programme has been packed, with trips to done an amazing job, despite how difficult their role is of keeping they should be, and doing their jobs to perfection. who ‘broke their leg walking to school’ which can sometimes be Infinite Air, paintballing, sailing, clay pigeon shooting, museums us organised and ready to move on to university. They have been quite a significant number of people. With us being the smallest and art galleries, as well as First Aid training or shopping to there every step of the way with us and will always help us as It was no surprise that yet again this year the House Competitions house, and every runner who completes the race earning at least Dalton Park or the Metrocentre. There has been a huge range of much as they can, no matter how busy they are or how little the were fiercely contested throughout all age groups. Firstly, I must one point, this makes it a monumental task for Poole House. We academic talks on every topic from Moliere to Rubik’s Cubism to problem is. Thank you for everything you have done for us over mention House Music which is the largest house event of the may not have won overall but we had many strong performances Exercise Biomedicine to the language of the New Testament, and this past year - it was all greatly appreciated and I hope you take year as everyone must participate. This means it takes a huge yet again, in the Dunelm from the likes of Joe Stelling and Harry there have been practical talks on how to succeed from the likes the relaxing summer break you deserve. amount of commitment and organisation in order for everything Jackson, and in the Swainston, where we took all five top places, of millionaires Dillon Bhardwaj and John Marshall. As well as the to run smoothly. This year it was led by Ed Arthur, and assisted by thanks, in order, to the effort and talent of Conor Dougal, Jonny opportunity to get involved in whole school drama productions Mr Macmillan was once again the resident tutor and also took on Henry Hudson, who both did superbly with this very challenging Bushnell, Josh Bland, Joe Hogan, and Dylan Fleming-Jones. such as Grease and The Jungle Book, there have been theatre the role of matron for a while when Helen was not here, which I role of organising the house and also being able to balance Another aspect which shows the level of respect we have for trips to see plays like An Inspector Calls, Henry V, Brave New am sure he thoroughly enjoyed. He is always ready to take part the workload with the rest of school life. Fred Enticknap gave each other is that every year, the majority of our House will World or Dead Dog in a Suitcase. There have also been business in any of the wide range of activities that are provided on a night excellent support on the piano in every rehearsal. Sadly, we did stay to support our team, no matter what the weather, until the trips, geography trips, history trips, trips to the Houses for the boarders, as long as it is football, and he is on the winning not win this year, but the standard of all our pieces was excellent last person crossed the line which is where our Ed Arthur chant of Parliament, even a Classics Quiz trip, where Nils Malmros team. There are many other staff members such as Mr Younger, as ever. I’m sure we’ll come back even stronger next year. originally came from. was an outstanding performer. Activities Week was a splendid Mr Burke, Mr Smith, Mr Gardner, Miss Lowery and Mr Wright who way to end such an exciting year, with a chance for the boys to are the glue which hold this house together through their constant The younger years once again did an excellent job despite the One of the great things about the House is that everyone gets get creative pitching for an Olympic Bid or writing a newspaper hard work to take care of the well-being of all pupils in the house. recurring problem that we were very light on numbers. They involved. In the Autumn Term, as a first XV Rugby player, I saw to deadline, building skills such as kayaking or orienteering, or managed to hold their own and also come out on top in some outstanding Poole performances on the Rugby pitch all around visiting York or BBC Newcastle. A final mention must go to our Housemaster, Mr Reith. He has areas. Moving up the year groups, as we gradually have more me, from the likes of Dan Jukes, Will Gray, Will Jewitt, Harry had yet another excellent year as Housemaster and you only numbers, we became more able to compete and therefore Jackson, Rob Milbanke, Reece Amir and Kyle Elliot. In the Spring It was also a year when we said goodbye. In the Autumn Term, truly realise how much work and effort he puts into the house started to produce better results. This is shown by the Year 11s term, many of the same stars were competing successfully in we said goodbye to our cleaner Mrs Adaline Isles, who retired once you get older. Especially since it was clear that he would display of Rugby in House Sevens where they very easily won the Sevens tournaments, while on the hockey pitch Lukas, Jonty, after eighteen years working in Poole House. She always got on go the extra mile to make other people’s jobs easier, including the tournament. In the House Swimming we were excellent, with Cameron, Ujwal and Henry gave their all for school and house. well with the boys, was a great character with a great sense of mine. Managing a House full of boys is a very daunting and superb performances from Liam Leung, Conor Dougall and Elliot In the Summer Term, we had a wealth of superstar performances humour, and made sure the House was spotlessly clean every difficult task but he manages it with ease and always does it with Edworthy. We also won the Senior House Basketball, with Liam on the cricket pitch: Jonny Bushnell, Robbie Fyfe, Sol Bell, Jonty morning. We will miss her. And of course I couldn’t write this a smile on his face. Leung again giving an impressive performance, as well as Kai Megginson, Will Jewitt, Nathan Bushnell, Will Gray, Cameron without giving a very special mention to our matron, Miss Helen Yu and Kevin, in what was a close-fought final against School Fyfe and of course Luke Henderson, the first XI captain. There Wood. She has been our matron as long as any of us have been It has been a privilege to be Head of House this year. Good luck House which we won 26-24. Senior House Cricket was once were also very memorable individual performances and moments at the senior school and she will now be moving on to a new job to Will Gray who takes on the role of Head of House next year, again successful with us beating both other houses, led by Luke throughout the year: Pranav Sambamoorthi as Mowgli in the as matron of an all girls’ boarding house closer to her home in I’m sure he’ll do a brilliant job along with his team of house Henderson, meaning that we finished off our record of winning junior school production of the Jungle Book, Archie O’Dair’s Scotland. She has been excellent in all areas of her job, whether monitors behind him. Good luck to all members of the U6th it every year since Year 7. Furthermore, we made a valiant effort rendition of The Last Post on Remembrance Day, Ewan Greenlaw it be toasting ten loaves of bread each morning, or dragging us who leave us this year in whatever you do. The great memories in House Rugby, being led by Patrick Fawcett. However, despite a winning every event he was entered into on Sports Day, or Kevin out of bed for breakfast when our ‘alarm doesn’t go off’. I speak we have of Poole House I know will last a lifetime. huge amount of determination, we were still unable to win. The Chen’s performance of Chopin’s Nocturne no. 2 which won the on behalf of the whole house when I say that she will be deeply Floreat Dunelmia last house event that I will mention is house cross country. This House Piano Competition at House Suppers. missed and we all wish her the best in her new job. Ben Langthorne, Head of House

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Creative

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which manufactures a wide range of laminated chipboard and associated products. They gained understanding of the mechanisation and production processes used and saw the Art & Design practical application of procedures and processes they had studied theoretically. We were informed that Egger’s UK plants The 2015/16 academic year once again highlighted in Hexham and Scotland manufacture half of all the chipboard the creative and imaginative capability of our pupils used in the manufacture of fitted kitchens in the UK. The scale of at Durham School. the process was staggering. Pupils also learned how the company is required to protect the environment and the significant lengths At the beginning of the Autumn term exam pupils taking upper they go to in order to achieve this objective. school courses in Art and Design Technology formulated their project ideas with staff. Ideas are many and varied and as The end of year summer exhibition which took place at the end teaching staff we are constantly surprised by the ingenuity of our of June in the Exhibition Room was a great success. A wide pupils. Of course creative thinking is an important skill which variety of exam work was exhibited including art, photography pupils acquire through rigorous teaching. It is also an important and design technology, was well attended. Pupils received many life skill applicable to many different contexts in a variety of compliments about their work. employment situations. Mr M. Baldwin The inspection in the Autumn term allowed us to highlight our successes, in terms of both teaching and pupil achievement. A wide variety of art and design technology work was displayed around the school in corridors and in classrooms. Pupils gain a real sense of achievement in seeing their work displayed.

A variety of trips and gallery visits provided pupils with opportunities to see exhibitions and design technology practices p30 Will Gray (Y12), Georgina Brown (GCSE) - Coffee Cup in an industrial setting. In the spring term, on different occasions, p31 Georgina Brown (GCSE), Verus von Haeften (Y12) - Fish Collage years 10 and 11 and sixth form art students visited London Alexander Smith (Y12), Teresa Esisi (GCSE), Leezum Lepcha (Y13) galleries, gaining a real insight into the work of important past and contemporary artists, sculptors and photographers. Ming Yang (Y13), Will Gray (Y12), James Hewison (Y13) - Container Port Towards the middle of the spring term the design technology Ming Yang (Y13), Alexander Smith (Y12) - Bamburgh (also back cover), Alexander Smith (Y12) - London pupils in years 12 and 13 visited Egger UK in Hexham

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Shortly after half term the chamber choir perfomed once again in the Cathedral as part of the first ever North East Festival of Youth Choirs, as reported on so well by Aydin Simsek below, and from then on it was 50s rock ‘n’ roll all the way, gold lamé jackets included, to the Gala Theatre for our production of Grease.

And so the summer term arrived. Having completed myriad GCSE and A level recordings, finishing touches were put into preparations for our Spring Concert on 13 May, just before normal teaching stopped for those pupils taking public exams.

The Leavers Service two weeks’ later in the Cathedral was the final time that the current choir would perform in that magnificent building. And they sang with aplomb in their singing of Mozart’s Gloria from his Coronation Mass in C.

For many, the final couple of weeks in the summer term can be a ratcheting down of activities. Not so for musicians. After more ABRSM exams came the Myerscough singing and Chadeyron instrumental competitions, adjudicated by Mr Kris Thomsett, acting Director of Music at Newcastle Cathedral. His comments about all the performers really hit the nail on the head, with some very beneficial feedback to all involved. The Myerscough competition winner was Beth Snegir for her musical rendition of Tchaikovsky’s None but the lonely heart. Winner of the Chadeyron competition was Dolly He with her virtuoso Music performance of Chopin’s Scherzo No. 2. The first good news of the year came on the results days in August, when music GCSE and A level successes were some of the best on record. Congratulations to all musicians who performed over the year in events great and small. Playing or singing in public requires a huge amount of self-discipline, practice time, patience, Over the Summer we said goodbye to as gifted a group of It was very good to hear so many musicians from Bow in fine motivation, not to mention nerves of steel. Why do we do it? In musicians as I can remember. It’s always incredible how, after form at their Christmas Concert in early December, under the the end because the rewards are worth it. As Victor Hugo said: a cohort of very talented musicians leave the school, our pupils excellent direction of Mrs Murray. Two days later the senior “Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is step up to the mark and aspire to or improve on the standards school Christmas concert was staged in chapel and you can impossible to be silent.” Durham School musicians certainly set by their predecessors. This year was no exception. read Helena Campbell’s excellent report of this below. The last understand that and carry the skills required into almost every week of term was particularly busy. On the Monday Bow choir other aspect of their lives, and on into the future. One of the highlights of 2015-16 was always going to be the were on tremendous form in the Bow carol service and on the production of Grease in the Gala Theatre and auditions took Tuesday the senior chamber choir combined with the choir of St. Mr R.A. Muttitt place early on in the Christmas term. Once the cast had been Chad’s College, Durham University to perform in a concert of chosen rehearsals took place after school nearly every day seasonal music to a packed Durham Cathedral. The following until the show. You can read a report of our remarkable night singers from Bow and our Junior Choir performed at a production elsewhere. large-scale charity concert in the Rainton Meadows Arena, performing to a huge audience. The end of term concluded on At the same time the usual feverish preparations were taking the Friday in Durham Cathedral with our traditional service of place (some cloaked in secrecy for a reason still unclear to me…) nine lessons and carols. Musicians tend to be a hardy lot but for the House Music competition. The event itself in after that it was definitely time for a lie down…. the week before half term was as entertaining as ever and musical standards were high. Adjudicator Mr Simon Dearsley, Four days into the Easter term and some of our senior Director of Music, Barnard Castle School announced Pimlico musicians sang (or played) for their supper at the Old House as overall winner, with the special trophy going to Dunelmian Masonic Lodge, where we were received warmly School House for the overall spirit of their performances. and a good evening was had by all. Then came some Next year we return to Sage, Gateshead for this event. informal lunchtime concerts in preparation for ABRSM exams. How lucky our pupils are to be able to perform in a world-class The inevitable nerves that come with performing to an examiner venue such as this, not to mention Durham Cathedral, which or to an audience can only be overcome with practice playing is where the first half of term was completed to the sound of in front of people (along with lots of actual practice, of course) the chapel choir singing a rousing rendition of Stanford’s Te and these lunchtime concerts are excellent opportunities to Deum in Bb. help with this.

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how they stored or dried meat. I just assumed it would be Very quietly but swiftly, we made our way back to the truck. the place. In my head, I had had very different images of my some factory like back home. However, my questions were not We never got to see an onyx. I was not hugely disappointed aunt’s farm. Expecting small shacks and chaos everywhere. important enough for me to wish an answer, so I exited quickly, about that, but everyone was ecstatic about the leopard Creative Writing On entering the house, I was pleasantly surprised to find it feeling nauseous, deciding not to go in there again. encounter. Apparently they are very rare, and very dangerous; was very modern. Not only was there working lights but, wait however, nothing dangerous really occurred, I failed to see I arrived in Africa, feeling excited, but also terrified. for it, WIFI! My brother and I were sharing a room; I was Dinnertime came and I watched as my aunt slopped some the excitement. I had been slightly apprehensive about embarking on not too unhappy about that, but I was about the spider. A brown stew into my chipped bowl. I curled my nose, half this trip. large, spider. I ran to fetch my aunt who ‘dealt with it’ (she expecting an eyeball to roll to the surface. However, I was. As much as I enjoyed Africa, I would not live there. Their way killed it). Apparently, it was a wall spider, and NOT a big Wrong. The stew was delicious. It was onyx meat. Having no of life is too cut off for me, and that is not because they do Dangerous animals lurked around every corner, disease could deal. Not liking creepy crawlies I decided to leave my room, clue what this was, my uncle began to describe one. He said not have phones. They do! They just do not use them. The be anywhere and there was a horrid feeling of being completely only to lay eyes on an ugly, black beetle, sauntering into my something along the lines of; ‘like a deer, but much bigger, people were lovely but were relaxed about everything as a isolated and cut off from the rest of the world. It was not my idea room. Feeling pathetic after the last incident, I ‘dealt’ with with two very long straight horns’. He also agreed to take my five-year-old would be. Not saying that this is a bad thing. of a perfect summer holiday, but it was time for an adventure, this one myself, then went to explore the rest of the house. brother and I out to try and see one tomorrow. Feeling nervous Finding out about their way of life was a learning curve for me. and Africa would be sure to give one. It was large for a bungalow, with spacious rooms filled with about this, I thanked them and turned to my bed. The way they approach situations, good or bad, is completely dark, oak furniture. As I wandered into what I thought was different to western civilization. They do everything when it The sun shone brightly and dust rose up from the track. the cloakroom, I was met with a nasty surprise. The room was The next day the sun shone brightly again. I stepped outside suits them, which makes it sound like nothing would ever get Strong smells of animals and other unidentified objects wafted colder than the rest and smelt rancid. and was blown away by the landscape. Vast. Oh so vast! With done, and that’s sort of true! Everything is just done very slowly. around us. However, what did I expect, going to a farm. Upon no other buildings as far as the eye could see. The land was However, people have a relaxed attitude, that I would not mind our arrival, workers, schoolchildren and our family raced out to Slices of meats and fur hung over wooden racks, while massive flat, covered in shrubs and small trees. In the distance, there experiencing more often. Like at one point, my aunt and I were greet us. It was not often that any of us English relatives came joints were suspended from the ceiling. I was disgusted, but were rolling hills, which looked stunning as the sun rose up going around the farm. She spotted one of the workers having out to see them. Honestly, I was shocked at the sheer size of also intrigued. I suppose that it had never occurred to me behind them. I could see the cattle being moved from one of ‘a sit’. She asked him what he was doing. the pens to the waterhole. They ‘mooed’ excitedly, stamping their hooves. It was winter here, but I felt boiling. Despite He replied; “my legs feelin’ stiff, so I sit”. My aunt shrugged my lack of acclimatisation, the natives were all shivering. My and said. “So when will the work be complete?” The worker “A mysterious land, for a fabulous holiday brother and I looked dubiously at the rickety truck making our stretched out. “Just now, just now”. My aunt tutted and left the way over. worker to ‘have his sit’. She seemed a little cross with him, and an adventure” and I asked why. It turns out that ‘just now’, means ‘when I’m “In” my uncle commanded. Speaking very little English, ready’. If only everything could be done ‘just now’. conversation a challenge and was very limited. Sitting down on the holey seat, I noticed a gun at my feet. “The gun?” I asked. At one point, when I was in the town. Yes, a town! I met a man trying to sell key rings. I love key rings, but these were “Just in case” my uncle replied. disgusting. I did not even know what they were meant to be. So I told him politely; “no thank you” and walked away, but boy, “Oh great. Just in case, what? We get attacked?” Suddenly was he eager to sell. He followed me around indiscreetly, but I the truck felt the safest place in the world, and I did not want pretended not to notice. I eventually stopped at a junction and to get out. he caught up with me. “Hello” he said happily. “Please, where are you from?” I ignored him. He began to list countries from The drive was bumpy. Dust flew up in front of the truck and I where he thought I came from. He decided on Austria. God wondered how on Earth my uncle could see. Turning to look at knows why. As I moved on, he followed in quick pursuit and him, I noticed that he was in fact rummaging for something in when we made eye contact, he would shout “Austria” at me the back seat, and not watching the road. The truck suddenly and then come walking over as if we were old friends. came to an abrupt halt, and uncle hopped out, grabbing the gun. Having not been able to see, I was shocked to find that At first I was annoyed, but then I saw the funnier side. It just we were in the wild. I could not see the farm at all, and we goes to show, that however laid back they appear, if they want had not been driving that long. My surroundings were a something, they will stop at nothing until, they get it. I certainly typical image of Africa. Trees with not much on them, huge admire this and have been trying become more like this myself. grey rocks, shrubs and short, brown grass, which I was told NOT to go in under any circumstances. Although much of the Africa has rubbed off on me. Their relaxed ways, puts life into landscape was stunning, some of it was dry and bland, with perspective. They worry about the important things, and the not much going on. rest, does not matter. If they want to have ‘a sit’ on the job, then they will. Personally, I think if we all tried to be a little more We set off walking in a dry, sandy riverbed. Really, I just like this, some of the stress would seep away and life would be wanted to go back to the farm, but we were already too far a little more enjoyable. gone from the truck. Becoming bored of the brown surroundings, my mind began to wonder. I had hardly I recommend a trip to Africa, especially if you need to noticed that my uncle had stopped, had raised the gun and unwind. It is also a mysterious land, for a fabulous holiday was waving my brother and I away. I had no clue what was and an adventure. going on, but it turns out that it was a leopard. As it was not a lion, I did not feel the urgency that my uncle had felt. Connie Barraclough Y11

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plane crash, fight scenes and non-naturalistic sequences. The costume designer (Deanna Lowery) helped to enhance Drama the production and emphasise the trauma of the characters and the lighting design and execution (Fraser Reith) made the The Year 11 GCSE drama students have worked hard performance visually exciting with effective use of colour and gobos to create a range of settings. this year to produce a superb set of performances which forms part of their GCSE assessment. In April, the Year 11 GCSE drama students further demonstrated their range of skills, with one student designing and building a Back in September, the group explored a range of stimuli in set for one groups’ production of John Godber’s Shakers. This lessons to provide inspiration for their pieces. Inspired by a included a fully functional bar and flashing LED sign. Further Dystopian theme explored in lessons, where we focused on Scripted pieces ranged from Antigone to The Woman in Black novels like Orwell’s 1984 and The Hunger Games by Suzanne and again demonstrated high levels of talent and enthusiasm Collins, one group created an improvised piece, which begins from Durham drama students. Grease For many students, this is really a once in a lifetime with three people trapped in a room, not knowing how they As soon as the show was announced there was an immediate opportunity to perform in a theatre venue of this size got there or why. The Controller (played by Ben Pulman) was These were an impressive set of pieces that demonstrated buzz and sense of anticipation surrounding the show and the and calibre and one I certainly wish I had at school. manipulating the inmates; pulling their strings metaphorically the creativity and commitment of the GCSE students. auditions, particularly as the show was going to be performed The cast took to the pressures and demands of performing and literally during some impressive physical theatre sequences. The extra rehearsal and preparation undertaken should be at the Gala Theatre, Durham. four consecutive shows; giving their all to each and The piece effectively took the audience on a journey of many commended and definitely paid off with an excellent set of every moment of the production. Audience feedback twists and turns, as we discovered the flaws of character, through practical marks. Mr Muttitt and I were delighted with the turn out for auditions, was superb, with many comparing it to a west end flashback scenes, that had lead to the three inmates being demonstrating just how much talent there was to choose from! production! captured. The biggest twist of all was revealed at the end of More recently, Year 10 performed in three ensemble Physical Armed with an exceptionally strong cast, we began rehearsals the piece, when we discovered that the exploration of these Theatre pieces, The Smile, a piece set during WW1 which in September. The show demands huge amounts of energy The quality of the design and technical elements should flaws of society was in fact being broadcast as a reality TV show. explores the experiences of wounded soldiers, Josephine the from its cast in terms of acting, singing and LOTS of dancing – also be recognised, as the lighting and sound was operated This was a highly inventive piece, full of originality and surprise. Angel, which follows the experiences of New York Firefighters, so there was lots of preparation to be done. by Durham School Technical Team members; again ladder company six on 9/11 and Let him have it a portrayal of demonstrating just how far the talent stretched. A further piece was a devised performance that used Golding’s the true case of Derek Bentley and Christopher Craig. The pupils All students rose to the challenge and even those who Lord of the Flies for textual inspiration. The group created their should be commended for their maturity in dealing with such thought they ‘couldn’t dance’ took to the choreography and It was an absolute pleasure to work with the cast, the crew, own script, but effectively devised this around some of the sensitive content and their very moving portrayal of the themes the hand jiving like pros! Once the cast started modelling and all of those involved in this year’s production. original text. They wished to explore the theme of human nature and issues explored. their ‘greaser’ hairstyles and 50s costume, the energy and Once again, I have been blown away by the ability of the and survival when four castaways are stranded on a desert enthusiasm rocketed! performers and the exceptionally high standards the pupils island. The groups’ use of physical theatre and synchronised A very well done! Performing in the Gala Theatre, Durham was simply wonderful set themselves. movement was impressive, as they effectively simulated the Miss A. Parkin, Head of Drama and we were delighted to have had the opportunity to experience such a fantastic venue. Miss A. Parkin, Head of Drama

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The Jungle Book This Summer, the Lower School drama production was, ‘The Jungle book’. As this is such a well known and loved story, I wanted to retain some of the original songs and scenes from the Disney movie (1967), but also stay true to Rudyard Kipling’s novel; focusing more closely on the family of wolves he is raised by and the hunters and other humans he encounters in the ‘man village’.

The 2016 new Disney film of the same name is truly epic, and really brings to life the ferocity of the jungle and the struggles Mowgli has to survive. We spent lots of time working on movement and physicality to reflect the animals the cast were playing, managing to effectively capture the many creatures Mowgli encounters in the jungle. For example the terrifying tiger, Shere Khan (played by Freya Court) , the sly, hunger- crazed serpent, Kaa (played by Moncia Speed), and Baloo the lovable bear (played by Daniel Coleman) to name but a few. A special mention must also go to Pranav Sambamoorthi, who played Mowgli. This was Pranav’s theatrical debut for Durham School and he was superb! I have been hugely impressed with the commitment of the whole cast and crew, with some lead casts members choosing to carry out extra rehearsals themselves! The current year 7 and 8 students are a very talented bunch, and one can only imagine the shows we will be watching in a few years when they are in the upper school!

The technical team, made up entirely of year 10 students, were invaluable in their support to the cast and in their flawless execution of sound, lighting and stage management.

A fantastic show rounds off a fantastic year for Drama at Durham School. Thanks to all who have taken part – you have done yourselves proud.

Miss A. Parkin, Head of Drama

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A Midsummer Night’s Dream by William Shakespeare Helena – Emily Bullock, Hermia – Shaira Berg

AS & A2 Theatre Studies

All My Sons by Arthur Miller This group really wanted to capture the ‘magic’ of the forest, whilst Mother – Jayne Etherington, making the Midsummer setting a believable one that both characters find Chris – Chris Coleman, themselves in. They created a pond, fit for purpose, which the characters Joe – Matthew Storey used as a focal point of the piece and effectively created comedy.

Phenomenal performances from all involved with all students gaining top band marks and Chris Coleman achieving a staggering full marks for his performance

The groups’ Stanislavskian approach to the piece was fully realised with a full set replica of the Kellers’ backyard created on stage, including faux grass, a bench and the symbolic tree; A STRING OF PEARLS which students effectively nurtured and took Austin Anderson, Elisabeth Snegir care of in preparation for the performance! & Charlotte Stone The ‘drama tree’ has now been planted in the school grounds behind the admin office.

LAMDA: London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts

This year saw the start of extra Speech and Year 13 devised a piece inspired by the true story of Benjamin Barber, Drama lessons as part of the Co-Curricular also known as Sweeney Todd, the Demon Barber of Fleet Street. Reading the Drama programme. A number of pupils original Penny Dreadful entitled, ‘The String of Pearls’ the group realised that from years 7- 13 have been taking the pearls were a central point in the story, representing the corrupt nature of individual lessons with Mrs Gatziou, our the upper class Victorian society. Fascinated by Todd’s backstory, the group Speech and Drama teacher. These lessons explored how his tough childhood and experiences in prison as a young develop acting, performance, presentation boy gave rise to his murderous activities. Stripping back the glamour of the and public speaking skills, with many pupils Hollywood, they wished to create a piece that told the ‘real’ story of the events. opting to take LAMDA examinations in May of this year. Pupils were entered from Grade In this hard hitting and immersive piece, audience members were offered Mrs Academic 2 to Grade 6 (Acting Bronze Medal). Lovitt’s delicious pies as the story unfolded through the eyes of Toby, a young Results were superb: 13 Acting Grades with boy who worked in the shop. Two life size puppets represented Mr Barker and Distinction, three with Merit and two Passes. Mrs Lovitt in some scenes. Very well done. The groups’ musical abilities came to the fore in many scenes, and involved Miss A. Parkin, Head of Drama music created by the students themselves. The quality of the acting was superb and the multi-rolling the pupils undertook, exceptional. A fantastic piece.

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After receiving a postcard from the late Jason Rafiel, Jane Marple embarks on a mystery tour, encompassing a range of quintessentially British country houses, estates and gardens, along with selected participants. Because of her shrewd intelligence, impartiality and cunning, the crime is almost mathematically solved; the clues placed before the reader chapter by chapter for the discerning armchair detective to solve alongside the protagonist. It is very interesting to note that throughout this, and indeed other novels, Christie engineers links with previously solved cases. Fundamentally, Christie’s stories suggest all crimes, at least in literature, follow similar patterns ands structures highlighting the English Extended Projects psyche that everything is structured and quasi predictable. This empirical understanding of crime in which all details may An Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is a be recovered by the detective with the correct skills and knowledge recalls a fundamental aspect of British philosophy, standalone qualification that encourages university first proposed by 14th century Franciscan Friar and theologian, style study of a topic, chosen by the pupil and William of Occam. Occam argued that there are simple, supported by an academic mentor. natural and understandable reasons for everything – indeed Occam’s razor advocates efficient reasoning, using the fewest EPQs are highly respected by universities and are seen as a possible causes, variables factors and assumptions. These way students can differentiate themselves from other applicants. themes were later developed by Newton in his Philosophiæ A number sixth form of pupils at Durham undertake an EPQ Naturalis Principia Mathematica (1687) and Kelvin in his each year. Treatise on Natural Philosophy (1867), where both deal empirically with questions regarding natural order and readings and achievement in this competition over the last In one such EPQ B.S. Benjamin O’Neill, Year 13, investigated quantitative reasoning familiar to any reader or viewer of the Classics two years. the question “To What Extent Are Attitudes to Crime and Solving Sherlock Holmes stories. While easy to dismiss this theory, by Crime in Modern European Detective Fiction Expressions of saying that not everyone has read Newton or Kelvin, our ethics Another busy year saw the department offer a range Benjamin also entered the nation ARLT Recitation Competition National Psyche and Philosophy?” The topic allowed Ben are based on their philosophical principles which have been of activities and experiences for pupils covering in January, which Lexy Powell OD had won last year; a to merge his linguistic, philosophical, historical and cultural embedded into our education and institutions. aspects of languages and culture/literature, since the recorded reading of a different section of Virgil resulted in interests. Ben’s 5,000 word essay goes on to investigate the Benjamin being Highly Commended, no mean feat with only similarities between the detective fiction of England, France, Occam contributed greatly to the principles of propositional small department offers Latin, Greek, and Classical the top-two places awarded and the winner coming from Germany and Russia and the respective cultural influences logic through a series of laws which would later, in the Civilisation to A level. Brighton College no less. that effect the national psyches. An extract of his work follows. nineteenth-century, be developed by Augustus de Morgan and become known as de Morgan’s Laws. Both Occam and In October Miss Baylis and I took our VI Form Classicists In the second term a flurry of Classics-related events took Midsomer Murders, Miss Marple, A Touch of Frost, Sherlock de Morgan place significant emphasis on proof, deduction on a day trip to London to watch a performance of a Greek place, with three Hillard talks dealing with Roman History, Holmes, Taggart, Bergerac, Endeavour, Foyle’s War ... and logic; I would argue that these themes are omnipresent Tragedy: Aeschylus’ Oresteia Trilogy was being performed at Greek Music and the language of the Greek New throughout the recent decades, English television has come in English detective literature. the Globe Theatre, the first play of which, The Agamemnon, Testament. The latter was delivered by Professor Bash to be dominated by such classic crime dramas. The format is a set text for AS Classical Civilisation. It was expertly- from Durham University while the first two were lectures is equally easily recognisable: a murder is committed, the In the ITV series A Touch of Frost (1992-2010), staring performed and true to the original texts (though delivered given by Faculty at Newcastle University – the department detective receives a phone-call, he turns up at the crime David Jason and based on the novels of R.D. Wingfield, in English translation), though it mixed the old and the new continues to foster close links with universities offering scene, and within the duration of the programme, the crime they are clearly demonstrated through the investigations of in costume and set design with mixed results. A very bloody Classics. There is an article devoted to the newly-established is mathematically solved. Essentially, this is the whodunit of the hero of the title; once again, it is striking to note that the and realistic re-enactment of the aftermath of the slaughter Hillard Society elsewhere in this magazine so I shall say no the 1920s on our screens. crime is always solved, albeit often via controversial means. of the Greek King, Agamemnon, set the tone for a visual more beyond thanking Benjamin O’Neill and Jodie For example, in Penny for the Guy (1997), Frost is prepared treat which captivated our pupils. Cameron (UVI, MacLeod) for their roles in setting up and Throughout the course of this essay, I wish to explore the extent to produce a forged receipt in order to prise a confession running the society this year and wishing good luck to those to which this paradigm differs for equivalent continental texts from the elderly Finch. Also in the first term I took Benjamin O’Neill (UVI, Caffs) taking on the baton: Alexander Smith (LVI, School) and and the extent to which ideas relating to a ‘national psyche’ to the Latin Recitation Competition at The RGS, Helena Campbell (LVI, Pimlico). and aspects of philosophy may be used in order to explain While breaking all regulations of correct Police procedure Newcastle, where he competed in the Senior section by such differences. For many, Christie’s Miss Marple represents and perhaps the British concept of fairness, such expedient reading aloud two Latin passages, one from Virgil’s epic In February we took five teams of three (with a couple of subs) the quintessential twentieth century English Detective Story, fabrication of evidence reflects theories of utilitarianism and poem The Aeneid and the other a letter written by Pliny the to the Inter-School Classics Quiz hosted by Newcastle High spanning over twelve novels and several short story collections, represents the typical British values of dedication to a cause, Younger (primarily known for providing the only eye-witness School. We entered a Junior team, an Intermediate team and written between 1926 and 1971. The Daily Mirror, 28 October hard-work and willingness to go out of one’s comfort zone for account of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79). Last three Senior teams (comprising Y11-Y13 pupils), testament 1971, describe the final novel, Nemesis, as a traditional the good of the country. It reflects England’s consequentialist year Lexy Powell OD placed second while Ben came third, to our pupils’ willingness to get involved and interest in the Detective novel, and ITV’s 2009 broadcast, featuring the late philosophical legacy, including Bentham, Mill, Sidgwick and and it was most impressive that he built on this and came subjects, even when it meant giving up a Saturday morning. Geraldine McEwan, certainly remains true to this description, Moore, since it is made clear that the end is more important second himself this time around. Although disappointed We performed well in all sections but our strongest showing despite its simplified plot and cast. for Frost than the means by which it is achieved. not to take the top spot, Benjamin should be proud of his came from the team composed of Ben O’Neill, Charlotte

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Stone, Anu Krishna and Charlotte Etherington, which (School) at Durham University and Charlotte Stone (MacLeod) benefitted from having two Latinists and a good all-round at Trinity St. David’s, University of Wales (Lampeter). knowledge. They were unbeaten through all their rounds, including their last match-up which they won on the very Numbers of pupils taking Classics-related subjects are last question, winning 105-95 against three girls from fairly small but proportionately strong and healthy; all six Newcastle High School. These girls, however, were the AS Level Class Civ pupils will continue to A2 level while we eventual winners by virtue of accumulating the most had three take AS Latin this year. Lower down the School points over all four rounds, while our undefeated team we will have nine pupils sit GCSE Class Civ this coming year were pushed into third due to this scoring system, though and over twenty Y9s have opted to take Latin and around they were only one correct answer away from winning! fifteen Class Civ. I hope to enter a pupil for GCSE Greek and wish to continue to offer it as an off-timetable subject “All in all a busy and enjoyable year, but for those interested. also a successful one. Pupils represented the From a staffing point of view, Miss Baylis attended a School very well in a number of events but conference on ‘Classics in Communities’ and is looking at ways to widen access to the Classics on a larger scale; this also pupils are pursuing their passion for coming year she shall teach Latin to Years 5 and 6 at Bow the ancient world after it.” every week and this continuity will prove very helpful with regard to the promotion of such studies. She is Secretary of Also in February I decided to enter some pupils from our The Repton Summer School in Classics and teaches courses School into the UK Linguistics Olympiad, a competition there, while she took on GCSE Class Civ examination with four levels which sets linguistic ‘puzzles’ drawn from marking this year to help the teaching of the subject. languages both real and invented, mostly of A level I continue to mark GCSE Greek papers while this year I equivalent to Linguistics exercises undertaken at degree have become the author of A level examinations, creating level. I entered my entire Y9 Latin set at the Foundation Level the papers for the Roman Britain OCR A2 Class Civ module (2nd of 4) and was very impressed by their performances. and a language paper for OCR A level Greek. Toby Laycock (Poole) won a Bronze Award, putting him in the top 20% nationally, while Ross Sime and Jared Warby This past year I started a pilot project, CTEP – the (both Caffs) missed out by the narrowest of margins. At the Classics-teaching Experience Programme. Only two Advanced Level (4th of 4), I was most pleased to have seven universities (Cambridge and KCL) offer PGCEs in volunteer entrants – from the UVI Benjamin O’Neill and Jodie Classics; both are small and very competitive, yet the Cameron and from the LVI Anu Krishna, Helena Campbell demand for Classics teachers outweighs the current supply. and Nurul Fadilah (all Pimlico), as well as Alexander Smith I had two Durham University Classics students, would-be and William Bowles (both School). A gruelling two-and-a- teachers, enrol on this programme which involved half-hour examination challenged them greatly but all were observing some lessons followed by debriefs, some up to the task. It was a fantastic achievement that we won workshops and meetings with me to discuss the realities, three awards in total – Benjamin and Nurul secured Bronzes positives and difficulties of teaching these subjects. (top 25% of country) while Anu went one better with a Silver I am glad to say that both students were accepted on the (top 15% of country). I look forward to building on this in Cambridge PGCE course and CTEP will now be expanded. the coming years. I already have four Durham University students signed up for this coming year while Newcastle University have In the final term we took to the outdoors – on our now- advertised it to their Classicists too. annual Y13 Class Civ trip in May we visited the Roman supply fort at Arbeia in South Shields before spending the Indeed this coming year is already lining up to be an afternoon – post-Wagamama’s lunch – at the Hancock interesting one. Two Classics Professors (one from Durham, Museum in Newcastle, which houses many of the artefacts one from Newcastle) have already agreed to deliver lectures we study in the Roman Britain A2 Class Civ module. In June for the Hillard Society while in November we will be visited Miss Baylis organised and led a Hadrian’s Wall trip for all by a museum curator who will bring replicas of classical of Year 7 – a separate report on this follows. artefacts for pupils to study and handle while subsequently pupils in the Art department will sketch them. In February All in all a busy and enjoyable year, but also a successful 2017 a group of Y11-Y13 pupils will visit Rome for four days one. Pupils represented the School very well in a number while we are planning a trip to Cambridge to see Sophocles’ of events but also pupils are pursuing their passion for the Antigone performed in Greek (with English surtitles). With ancient world after it. Benjamin O’Neill is going to read four pupils taking EPQs within the department and a handful German and Latin at Peterhouse College, Cambridge – the looking to study Classics-related degrees next year, it first Oxbridge classical linguist for over twenty years from promises to be a busy and fruitful one. Durham School. Two pupils are going to read Classics/ Ancient History/Archaeology at university – William Hewitt Mr C. Hope

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Business Studies and Economics The Business Studies and Economics Department were thrilled with the terrific results achieved by the leaving class of 2015.

Two thirds of the Business Studies cohort achieved either an A*, A or B grade overall, with Helen Clifford, Jasper Wiese (winner of the Business Studies prize), Lewis Bunce, Tim Hargreaves and Charlie Conway managing to score full marks in one of their two A2 exams, a great achievement for these conscientious students. Jamie Kirkbride (winner of the Economics prize) was the top performing economist but he was joined by Millie Poon, Kristian inflation to a panel of Bank of England employees and Hall, Henry Wadsworth, Oliver Simmonds, Anita Yu and Romany monetary policy experts. Ming Yang, Lewis Miller, Hannah Haynes Kullar within the A-B grade category. and Alex Grecoe excelled in delivering a composed and The Department must extend thanks to the diverse group of articulate presentation, demonstrating impressive research, speakers who addressed the students this year. Local business teamwork and public speaking skills. magnate John Marshall regaled us with tales from his life as an entrepreneur, dishing out a substantial dose of reality as to what The Department also ran a competition this year for the Year 8 it takes to launch and grow a business from humble beginnings. students, whereby teams of our young entrepreneurs researched, Professor Jason Shachat from Durham University ran a stock designed and presented a concept for a social enterprise project, market simulation game for the U6th economists as well as whilst being mentored by current sixth form Business students. organising guided tours of the Business School for us to enjoy, and Professor Ian Stone from Durham Business School kindly The judging panel, including Debbie Stanford and Kate Welch Reading Week ended with a visit from a local author, Quentin hosted the L6th students for an evening of enterprise education OBE from the organisation ‘Social Enterprise Acumen’ were Smith, who discussed his inspirations for writing and how he competitions. The speakers, trips and activities which make up really impressed with the innovative ideas and the standard of English develops his plot and characters. Of course Reading Week the department’s enrichment programme continue to support speaking and presentation on show. would not be complete without staff and students participating all the good work done in class by both the students and their We have experienced yet another busy year in the in our ‘dress up as a character from a book day’. There were teachers, Mr Gouge and Mrs Turnbull. The winning team of Charlotte Payne, Frances Clifford, Amy English Department. some fabulous entries; with Year 7 pupils in particular making O’Kane and Imogen Nicholson designed an anti-bullying app an excellent effort. A highlight of the year was the tremendous performance of the which they will launch as a real business next year. In May Mrs Swan started her maternity leave and shortly Target 2.0 team who competed in the Bank of England’s inflation afterwards she became the mum of a third daughter, Pippa. During activities week Year 10 pupils spent an afternoon at rate challenge, putting forward their proposals for controlling This year we welcomed Vanessa Turnbull to the department as We welcomed Mr Jennings into the department and he will the BBC studios in Newcastle where they were shown the Look a teacher of both Business and Economics. Vanessa has made be with us until Mrs Swan’s return in May 2017. North set, amongst many other things. They were also given a valuable contribution in a short space of time and we look the opportunity to read the weather and take part in their own forward to the department enjoying more success in the Throughout the year there have been numerous trips to the radio play. There were some stellar performances, but a special coming years. theatre and places of literary heritage. Sixth form students mention needs to go to John Moody and Chris Heron who enjoyed a visit to Bronte Country where they experienced a hike were completely at home in the media environment. It was Mr O. Hughes across the rugged moorlands that inspired the Bronte sisters’ a very enjoyable experience for the pupils and they learned work. They also visited the Bronte Parsonage, the home of the a lot about how television and radio operate. Bronte sisters from 1820, which is now a beautifully preserved museum. Year 10 and 11 pupils enjoyed a trip to the Theatre Next year promises to be just as busy. A love of reading does Royal at Newcastle to watch the critically acclaimed An Inspector not come naturally to some people, however, we want as many Calls. All students agreed it had helped to ‘bring the play to of our students as possible to try and read more this next year. life’ for them. Reading not only allows us to escape, it helps us to use our imagination and empathise with situations and characters. As always the department, together with learning support, held Reading increases the range of vocabulary we use, but most our annual Reading Week. J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter was the of all it makes us think; it makes us consider what we would theme of a very entertaining chapel service that saw our sixth do in certain situations, how we would act if faced with a moral form students reciting, and indeed enacting, key quotes from dilemma. Let’s hope we can share our passion for reading the world famous novels. The Harry Potter theme carried through with the whole school; we look forward to the challenge! into lunch in our very own Hogwart’s Dining Hall on Tuesday, where the catering staff conjured up several culinary delights. Mrs E. Melville

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History The year has been a busy and successful one, marked by significant change in the Department, exams and also the centenary events around Noel Hodgson OD.

The year has been a busy and successful one, marked by significant change in the Department, exams and also the centenary events around Noel Hodgson OD.

The seismic shift in the Department was delivered in the Easter Term, with the news that Mrs Hewitt was to leave the School after a long and loyal career. Her no-nonsense and supremely organised approach has been a great asset in my time here and of course long before. The amount of times Lucy pointed out errors in my documents or cut through confusion with a clear decision is impossible to guess but her input has been much appreciated. Her classes have always had clear guidance and a firm approach, and have been in safe hands.

Academic success has been and always will be the focus of the Department, and the 2015 exams were pleasing. GCSE Outside of the classroom the Department was busy. The now success was comfortably up on School average, with 77% of traditional series of days working with Durham University students at A* to B and a full 20% at A*. A level success was History Department and the Royal Society of Arts gave a much shown by the 65% A*to B performance. History remains one appreciated insight to undergraduate life and some networking of the “gold standard” Academic subjects and to continue this with other Schools and Academies in the region. The Year 7 strong performance is very encouraging. Louis Dinsdale and and 8 Historians had a full day trip to York, visiting the excellent Dominic Scott were the top scorers in GCSE with 387 and York Army Museum. The focus on the Somme was timely given 381 UMS (from a possible 400) respectively. At A level the top the School’s own involvement in this famous battle. In the performers were James Hewitt and Lexy Powell, with 351 and afternoon we visited the Castle museum, which tied in nicely 350 points. This year saw the new reformed A levels roll out with the Medieval studies of these year groups. Geography and overall I am in favour. The sweep of History is now there, from Medieval to Modern, and the topics are interesting. Time The big event was the centenary of the death of Noel Hodgson Fieldwork visits continue to be the highlight of the will tell how the “toughening up” of A level pans out but the on the Somme. Hodgson was increasingly famous for his academic year in the Geography Department. Durham students will be up for the challenge! poetry during the war and his death took away a special talent that had somewhat ebbed from the national consciousness, The field visit to Iceland saw our geographers experiencing with war poetry dominated by Sassoon and Owen. I had the extremities of the land of ice and fire. They climbed to planned a trip to Devonshire Cemetery on the Somme for the the crater of Heimay an active volcano, brandished crampons anniversary, but the French authorities closed the whole region. and ice axes to traverse a glacier at Skaftafell, sailed on the The activities in School took on more significance therefore and Jokullsarlon glacial meltwater lagoon then recovered by we welcomed Christopher Hodgson, the great-nephew of Noel relaxing in the geothermal Blue Lagoon. of time. Luckily there was haggis pizza to see them through, and Charlotte Zeepvat to the School in June. A day was spent though the mystery of Mr Hewitt’s missing Arran beer working with the students and then an excellent evening was Closer to home, the GCSE geographers carried out fieldwork remains unsolved. held in Big School with poetry and talks. The gift by Christopher on a sunny Seaham beach , investigating coastal processes of Noel’s Latin books was poignant. The BBC were involved and features. Later on in the year we ventured to a fog-bound And so to Mr Hewitt to whom we say goodbye after 34 years also with interviews in May and June, and so the History of Saltburn-on-Sea to evaluate tourism in a British seaside in the geography department. We wish him many happy years Noel and the School has hopefully reached a wider audience. town. Of course fish and chips sampling, along with ice sailing off into the sunset with Mrs Hewitt. And for the last time cream tasting, is a major consideration when investigatIng ... no he has not taken his rock collection with him. They are 2016-17 will be full of challenges for the students and the tourist provision. all still available for viewing upon demand. In Mr Hewitt’s newly-remodelled Department but we can look forward with place, we welcome Miss Buist who joins us from Alnwick confidence. As Mr Best put it, “History is all around you in The sixth form geographers braved the voracious Scots midge who I’m sure will continue to inspire all students as to the Durham School.” for their summer term field work on the Isle of Arran. A variety wonders of the world around us. of field projects saw them wading in rivers , surveying beaches, Mr D. Tyreman collecting data and surviving without Wi-Fi for lengthy periods Dr Scott-Warburton

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A visit to Auckland Castle Francisco de Zurbarán between 1640 and 1644. On Wednesday 11 May I had the pleasure of taking my Bishop Richard Trevor bought twelve of the paintings in Spanish A level pupils to Auckland Castle to view the 1756, but had been outbid at auction for the thirteenth. magnificent Zurbarán paintings. We had had the fortune to Fortunately, he was able to employ an artist at the time to Modern Foreign Languages attend a fascinating lecture by Professor Beresford earlier in make an exact copy and so, the thirteen portraits were able the year, courtesy of the Hilliard Society, in which he talked to go on show in the purpose-built gallery and have hung about Spanish art in the North East and this had sparked there for over 250 years. Bishop Trevor’s objective was to The Modern Languages’ Department has been as busy as ever this academic year. our interest. We were not disappointed. Auckland Castle is encourage religious tolerance at a time of turmoil in a hidden treasure and the staff working there could not have England, particularly towards Jewish people living in the I bought a stunning photo by Phil Benton of the Eiffel Tower will enjoy a promising future as Alexander Smith and Helena been more attentive. We spent some time in the stunning country. We thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity of viewing early in June from an exhibition in Newcastle. The photo Campbell take over for September 2016. St Peter’s Chapel and were given a private tour which was the portraits. attracted my attention primarily because of the view of the hugely interesting. We were, however, itching to see the tower surrounded by some rather ominous clouds but in the Very recently, Year 8 French has been studying café culture famous portraits of Jacob and his twelve sons painted by Ms. C. Piñán foreground there is a man reading Le Monde and the title in French. While they struggled with the idea of having a for the newspaper article he is reading is, ‘Europe est en glass of wine or watching the football with a beer in a café danger’. It is very much a moment in time. rather than an English pub they did get to grips with ordering ice-creams in a myriad of flavours! Practising ordering things The Modern Languages’ Department has been as busy as was fun, especially when we sang all 12 verses of the waiter’s ever this academic year. Classes have been working hard song. This led to a lovely morning in a pretend French Café from Year 7 to Year 13 across a variety of topics. The A level in Big School with Mrs Eccleston and Mrs Wilkinson. We have examination classes always impress with their ability to hold never witnessed so many croissants and pains au chocolat their exam debate in French, German and Spanish on some disappear in such a short space of time. Ils avaient faim! The tricky issues; abortion, the death penalty and the immigrant chocolat chaud went down a treat too. crisis among some of the subjects discussed this year. Even the Year 8 classes enjoyed their oral presentations earlier in The Olympics Week at the end of term gave us the chance the year when they talked about their daily routine. While to do some fun activities with our pupils. The Year 9 turned lessons take place every day in the Department, other a simple game of boules into a fiercely fought competition exciting activities have hit the headlines this year. to rival the football! On Tuesday 28 June, the Luce Theatre hosted the Flying Theatre Company once again for another The Year 13 linguists started the year with a debating fun-filled show of acrobatics and comedy all performed in competition at St. Peter’s, York back in November. French. It was a whirlwind performance which was greatly Regional Debate 2015 The Flying Theatre Company You might remember that we reported on the inaugural enjoyed by the staff and pupils alike. Year 10 enjoyed some On the 25 November, four A2 students; Elisabeth Snegir, On the final Tuesday of term, the Flying Theatre Company competition last year but this year’s competition added French cinema complete with popcorn and chocolate as Alexander Smith, Benjamin O’Neill and Jodie Cameron took came back to Durham School. The Year 7 and Year 8 Spanish to the mix of languages. We sent two teams, one for they watched La Famille Bélier while Years 7 and 9 were part in a foreign language debate at St Peter’s, York, the former pupils were treated to a spectacular show entitled ‘Bon Spanish and one for German. Elisabeth Snegir, Alexander given the opportunity to learn and practise Spanish for use two were representing Spanish and the latter two German. Voyage’. This energetic and engaging performance in Smith, Benjamin O’Neill and Jodie Cameron were brave on their holidays. As part of the essential preparation for the debate, upon friendly and accessible French told the story of Pierre who enough to take on this challenge and they performed arriving in York the teams benefitted from a delightful Italian flew into the sunny south of France for a surfing holiday exceptionally well. The Spanish team adapted their arguments ‘Plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose,’ springs lunch which was I must stress, an essential part of the day! with his cousin, Lola. The acrobatics and energy in the well enough to combat those of their opponents so that to mind as we look to the new academic year. The format of the debates relied on contestant’s spontaneity performance were amazing and with audience participation Durham School defeated a strong Leeds Grammar School There are some significant changes to the examination and language skills, as well as the ability to defend their in abundance, it was definitely a fabulous way to end the team, just narrowly missing out on a place in the semi-finals. courses to come in September as the Year 12 take on opinions. With a series of compelling and topics such as the term and start the holidays. Bonnes vacances! The German team performed exceptionally well and made the new A level course over two years and the Year 10 ‘use of performance enhancing drugs in sport’ or ‘the impacts their way into the final in style where despite an impressive begin the new GCSE. We seem to be keeping some of the of tourism on the UK’ there were many profound and lively Mrs K. L. Wilkinson and articulate performance, they lost out by a single point. things we do now, reverting back to how things were a little debates taking place throughout the day. The Spanish team Nevertheless, both teams enjoyed the day and have set the while ago with other requirements and then adding some performed well and adapted their points to combat those of standard for next year’s competitors. tweaks along the way. The new GCSE format will involve the their opponents; Durham School defeated a strong Leeds same core skills of listening, reading, writing and speaking Grammar School team and narrowly missed out on a place The Hillard Society was founded this year to enrich learning but as we say farewell to controlled assessments this will in the semi-finals. The German team performed excellently “Events offer language students for all linguists and classicists. With Ben O’Neill and Jodie inevitably change the focus for the pupils for the writing and steamed their way into the final where despite an a rare opportunity to speak their Cameron at the helm, the Society has met together on many and speaking examinations at the end of the course. impressive and articulate performance, they lost out by a single occasions since September to hear speakers from leading We feel sure that the pupils will take such changes and point. Nevertheless, both teams enjoyed the day as a whole chosen language which is a vital experts in the fields of German, French, Classical (and challenges in their stride. For the A level, it is exciting to and in future years I’m sure Durham School teams will return component to the examination and New Testament) Greek, Latin, Arabic and Linguistics. We have the opportunity to teach more literature and film, with even greater vigour. Events such as these offer language any possibility to practise is greatly have had no fewer than ten lectures thanks to Ben’s powers and to have the time to focus on the culture of each students a rare opportunity to speak their chosen language of persuasion and organisational skills. These have been country alongside the language in more depth than before. which is a vital component to the examination and any welcomed and enjoyed.” impressive, not least in terms of the breadth and depth of The year to come will definitely be an interesting one. possibility to practise is greatly welcomed and enjoyed. scholars’ knowledge, and although a new society, it certainly does not lack rigour, and we feel sure that the Hillard Society Mrs K. L. Wilkinson Alex Smith Year 13

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Information Technology

Once again, it has been a very busy year in the ICT Department. We have greatly welcomed the introduction of our new VLE platform across the school. This has proved a great asset in furthering our pupils learning as many of our teaching resources can now be accessed from home or in the boarding house.

Academically, the department has seen a very good set of examination results for our 2015-16 A level and GCSE students. In addition to this, we have also continued to see a record number of pupils selecting ICT courses here at Durham School, especially at A level. We look forward to seeing what these pupils can achieve in the coming months. Mathematics On a separate note, we also say goodbye to Mr Nathan Hendry and Mr Mike Avraamides (our student teachers this year) and we would like to personally thank them for their support and hard work that they have both devoted to this department throughout the academic year. We wish them both every success in the future as they start their teaching careers across the North East of England. We will no doubt see the introduction of another student teacher from September; a great asset as they will be invaluable in supporting the department both throughout ICT lessons It has been a year of change within the Department this year. Although there were no stand outs at the Intermediate level and our after school clubs. We look forward to the year Mrs Kirsty Wilson was on maternity leave all year, eventually of the UKMT, the middle of the School had a second chance ahead, having closed what can only be described as an deciding not to return so she can focus on her family. Having in the University of Newcastle’s maths challenge; here David ‘excellent year’. been offered an educational advisors position, this is my last Hardern and Toby Laycock won certificates with Christine Academic PE year in charge of the Department. Zhang winning one of the top prizes. Mr A. McMillan The class of 2016 graduated from A2 Physical Education with a 50% pass rate at A*to B. We ended up with 6 students We waited in anticipation for our summer 2015 external We continued our link with Durham University taking getting a C grade, from a statistical point of view it is a examination results wondering whether we would be able on two undergraduates who put together a series of tests shame that a number of those students didn`t get a B grade. to beat last year or not. At GCSE we did not quite beat last to monitor some of our A level pupils. Religious Studies, years A*-C pass rate but we did achieve a very commendable Our Year 12 Further Mathematicians, once again, had A “big congratulations” must go to Jacob Weightman who 81%, whilst still maintaining our 100% pass rate. GCSE the opportunity to visit the University and although we Philosophy and Ethics thoroughly deserved his Academic PE prize and backed it Statistics maintained a 100% pass rate with A*-C being could not get a lecture we had a very informative and up in the summer with an A*. 83%. This was the last year we had two sets doing the detailed tour of Collingwood College, the Mathematics It has been a real joy to join the RPE department this year GCSE Statistics with only the top set sitting it. At A level we Department and the Bill Bryson library where pupils and my thanks go to Mrs Proud, Mrs Butler and Miss Hinde At AS we had a mixed set of results. A special mention, maintained our 100% pass rate but smashed our A*-B pass spent some time delving into some of the Universities for their warm welcome and support throughout the year. however, should go to Emma Willmott who got 100% rate raising this to 76% with our A* - C rate reaching 90%. Mathematics books. Highlights for the department this year include the Sixth Form (120/120) in her academic exam – a tremendous Our Further Maths course has been become so popular this A level Conference in York, the Years 7-9 gifted and talented achievement! group has increased in size a lot, this years A*-B rate was Academically we have just implemented the new GCSE conference in Harrogate (including a lively debate on the 80% and A*-C 100%. The department were extremely Mathematics course and we will all be interested to see how motion “This House believes that science has replaced God”), Our GCSE results were steady; with 33.3% of the cohort proud of our A level results which were the best in my time the summer 2017 examinations are going to go as these will the Lower Sixth rewriting the lyrics of Deft Punk’s Get Lucky getting A*/A. Well done to Sophie Atkinson on her A*, in charge and were some of the best in the School. The be the first ones through the new 9-1 syllabus. In just over a on the theme of Virtue Ethics, and the giant picture of Christ another excellent result! challenge to the pupils is to see whether we can maintain year we will be starting the reformed A level courses so there the Redeemer from or beat this next year. are some very interesting times ahead. Mr P. Gerrard Rio that the Year 8 girls produced for Olympics week. I was Our top mathematicians also competed in the UKMT On a personal note, I have been proud to lead the also thoroughly impressed by the patience and dedication Challenges at all levels. Stand out pupils were Hanlu Shen Department over the last six years, administering many shown by the Year 7s who completed a 1000 dot dot-to-dot at the junior end who went onto compete in the next round, curriculum changes, improving the administration of the picture of St Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow as an extra piece “A “big congratulations” must go to Jacob the Junior Kangaroo. By reaching the Kangaroo Hanlu department and making significant and positive changes of homework. Finally, my congratulations go to the GCSE Weightman who thoroughly deserved his showed that she was in the top 6% of the entrants this year. to the teaching and learning. Although I am sorry to say set of 2015 who all got either an A or A* grade in their goodbye to leading the department, I am looking forward Religious Studies exams! Academic PE prize and backed it up in the At the senior end Tony Tong, Yifei Li and Selena Li were our to challenges of my new role. summer with an A*.” top pupils with all three reaching the Senior Kangaroo, all Father Simon obtaining Merits (top 25% of those reaching the Kangaroo). Mr C. S. Fordyce

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Psychology The 2015-2016 academic year was one of both great success and big change for the Psychology department. The year began with the revelation that the graduating class of 2015 achieved the best ever grades (in terms of value added) in the final A level examinations, making Psychology one of the most successful departments in the entire school at A level, and in the 94th percentile in the country – a huge congratulations to all students, with a special mention of Tom Howe and Phoebe Dormand, who both achieved an A* overall. As in previous years, a number of the graduating class decided to read Psychology at university, with destinations including Durham, Liverpool, Leeds, Edinburgh, Exeter and Sheffield, Politics to name but a few. The ‘new’ Year 13 started the year with excellent AS results and have always had the target to exceed the successes of the class of 2015; this is a Democracy Day Bucking the national and regional trend the school voted big challenge, but they certainly have the ability to In September the Politics department hosted a overwhelming to remain in the European Union, with achieve it! Democracy Day with the Parliamentary outreach team. many students expressing a nuanced and well developed In addition, the Psychology Department was also involved Year 9 learnt the process of how bills are proposed and understanding of the ramifications of both outcomes. The major academic change this year in Psychology was in a number of activities in conjunction with other academic passed into laws, before being let loose into groups to in Year 12, where the cohort started the newly reformed departments; during science week, sessions were held on devise and propose bills of their own. All 70 Y12 students Mr S. MacNair syllabus. Although there are many similarities in terms of the factors that affect witness testimony and jury decision spent the afternoon in a parliamentary style debating content, the move towards a linear model presents a number making (as expected, the conclusion was made that people session, proposing and debating motions in the style of the Politics Trip to The Palace of Westminster of challenges, but students have performed fantastically all make surprisingly bad eyewitnesses), and Year 7 and Year House of Commons. Controversy was never far as the year Wednesday 13 January saw the Politics Department’s annual year, engaging with the new approaches and working with 8 students were introduced to the concept of psychological group grappled with a range of contemporary issues outing to the Palace of Westminster, central London. All focus and effort throughout. profiling when visited by ‘Inspector Brownlee’ as part of the relevant to them. eleven students accompanied by Mr Macnair departed from activities week ‘murder mystery’ event. Once again, students Durham train station at the ungodly time of 6:20am, with Mr In addition to the normal day-to-day teaching and learning, must be commended on their efforts throughout all of these Parliament Visit Webb joining the convoy at York. Arriving in London King’s 2015-2016 has been a year where Psychology has attempted activities, and it has been great to see the many new faces The second annual Parliament trip was very well received Cross at 9:15am, a short trek, past Westminster Abbey, to move ‘beyond the classroom’, in an attempt to inspire and attracted to Psychology. by the students and this year Dominic Scott volunteered to brought us to the Houses of Parliament themselves, where enthuse all students about the subject. Psychology students produce a ‘student’s eye’ write up. The department will return we were subjected to rigorous airport-style scrutiny before have conducted two chapel services this year, on the topics of 2015-2016 also played host to the first ever ‘joint centre next year, but this time for an overnight stay to experience we could enter. ‘relationships’ and ‘mental health awareness’, the latter being Psychology revision day’ – a fantastic day which saw Year 12 more of the ‘nations political capital’! part of a wider programme of events associated with mental students from Durham School travel to Wakefield Girls High At this point we met our host- Lord Brian Mackenzie of health awareness week. School to work with peers from neighbouring institutions. The Politics Conference Framwellgate, former President of the Police Superintendants day was designed and coordinated in part by Mr Brownlee, The Y12 Politics cohort spent the day at Newcastle University Association and Chief Superintendant of Durham and students worked in mixed groups in a variety of revision experiencing University style Politics teaching. The highlight Constabulary. An hour and a half tour around the seemingly sessions; the psychology students may state that this is an of the day was testing a prototype online voting system which endless corridors and vastly spacious galleries provided a example of ‘investigator bias’, but it has to be said that the provoked much debate on the relative merits of digital versus detailed, occasionally obscure yet fascinating history of the Durham School students noticeably outperformed their traditional voting methods. palace and its occupants. Once we had absorbed the awe peers throughout. of standing on the plaque marking the spot Nelson Mandela EU Simulation Day gave his addresses to both Houses on 11 July 1996 in the With the continued development and delivery of the reformed The week prior to the national referendum three Year 12 main hall of Westminster, we resumed our journey, this time A level syllabus, 2016-2017 looks set to be an equally students took part in an EU simulation day at Newcastle to the Cardinal dining complex. hectic, challenging and enjoyable year in Psychology. We University. The whole day event replicated the procedures look forward to welcoming a new cohort of Psychologists and of the EU parliament in dealing with the issue of mass Returning to the palace, we once again joined Lord wish every success to those leaving Durham School. As a migration from conflict areas. The students were given the Mackenzie, who took us into the House of Lords. During the parting note, the Psychology department would like to remind chance to work with politics students from across the debate, which we watched from the public galleries, various everyone, including all new ODs, to recognise the following region and realised that there are no easy solutions to junior ministers were questioned by the peers. words from inimitable Sigmund Freud as they progress the worlds problems! through their lives; At the end of our visit Lord Mackenzie held a question EU Referendum and answer session in which students asked about the ‘Sometimes a cigar is just a cigar…’ Following on from last year’s EU debate the school held workings of the Lords, which were found to be both an in/out referendum vote alongside the national one. revealing and complex. Mr B. Brownlee

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Chemical Analyst Competition Science A Year 12 team of Anu Krishna, Fraser Gaines and Will Medical Day 2016 Bowles representing the school were invited for a day of On the 2 March, 10 Durham School students from Years analytical Chemistry at the labs of Sunderland University. 10 and 11 travelled to Teesside to gain an understanding of They were each given a booklet containing a story of a medicine. We arrived at Stockton Sixth Form College promptly, villager who wanted to grow a prizewinning marrow in his and were quickly escorted to a room just off the canteen. When garden; however he had made some enemies in the village we entered the room, they divided the visiting schools into and his marrow had subsequently been destroyed by a evenly mixed groups. We then listened to a short presentation mystery marrow murderer. about life in medical school given by two fifth year students. This presentation described what was to be expected from each Three suspects were narrowed down who had both motive year, their daily routine based on the University of Liverpool, and and lack of alibi. They also each had the chemistry knowledge ended on our plan for the day. Throughout the day each group and access to chemicals for them to be able to marrow tamper. visited three workshops: anatomy, CPR and Medical Ethics. In anatomy we drew and labelled a diagram of a torso then each Each of these suspects was to be investigated using group researched an organ and presented it to the class. It was analytical chemistry methods by each of the three members a little awkward at first working with complete strangers, but this of the team, with Anu sorting a Silver nitrate scandal, Fraser was quickly overcome as we focused on the task at hand. In testing for Phosphorous in Fertiliser and Will working on a CPR we were given numerous situations and had to explain the salty scheme. process of we would go through, for example, how we approach a patient and what to do if they weren’t breathing. Everyone then Will made samples of different concentrations of salt water had a turn practicing heart resuscitations on some dummies to be compared with both water obtained from the marrow that would indicate if we were doing it right. Finally we made plant’s surrounding soil and soil from elsewhere in the garden. it to Medical Ethics here we learnt about the four principles of Using flame spectroscopy (where a sample of a chemical is Medical Ethics and how to apply them to certain situations. This sent through a methane flame and the energy absorbed is an was probably the hardest task of the day as there was no right indication of the proportion of a certain element in the sample) answer and it all depended on our own opinion. At the end Will found there to be less than 0.01 ppm (part per million) of of the day we listened to junior doctors; a GP, and a military Na in the water, and there was no difference between samples based doctor describing their life on a day to day basis and taken directly from the marrow soil and elsewhere in the garden, the different kind of jobs. thus exonerating the first suspect from having committed such Overall it was a very inspiring day and everyone gained a better a terrible crime. Anu was next, using a Ferrous thiocyanate understanding of what it meant to be a doctor. It was a great indicator to detect a colour change from milky to grapefruit experience and we send our thanks to the Liverpool medical pink with the thiocyanate ion ([SCN]) when combined with students who provided us with such a great introduction to silver nitrate ([Ag][NO]) and 6 molar nitric acid (HNO) to form a medicine. Silver thiocyanate precipitate when all of the iron had been used in conjunction with the thiocyanate ([Fe]³ 3[SCN] with excess Lauren Watson (Y11) [Ag] means [Ag] [SCN] silver thiocyanate precipitate is produced.

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By titrating this solution Anu was able to work out there was park is right next to a new climbing wall, which the boys found no significant difference in the amount of AgNO₃ in the soil fascinating. The chemistry department is right at the top of one around the marrow plant, and it was much less than the of the tallest buildings on site and is breathtaking to look out weakest concentration solution she had prepared in the lab, onto the transporter bridge and the river Tees from the labs. meaning that one of the suspects had also not poisoned the On arrival the students were greeted with coffee, tea and biscuits prized marrow. and at this point loosened up. The afternoon started with a quiz about the periodic table. They were in their “element” as they It all came down to Fraser Gaines’ phosphate fertiliser activity, answered it with confidence and I could really feel like they as he used the analytical test for phosphate ions; ammonium began to realise why they had been chosen. The rest of the molybdate-(2[NH₄]⁺[MoO₄]⁻²) If phosphate was present the afternoon was full of quick fire quiz “buzzer” rounds and tested solution turned a dark marine blue, and the concentration of the students recall and application. All of the Durham School phosphate was proportional to the depth of the blue colour. students were absolutely brilliant, each bringing their own skill to the competition and walked away with a very close win. With Fraser mixed varying concentrations of phosphate to use as goodie bags in hand and the prospect of the final at Easter, they comparisons, and then tested the sample from the marrow patch were thrilled and needless to say the journey back to Durham and the soil from elsewhere in the garden, finding a distinct School had a completely different atmosphere! difference between the two; the one from the rest of the garden was a dark blue, with a high concentration of phosphate [PO₃]⁻ ions, where the marrow grower had previously used fertiliser. Using analytical photospectroscopy techniques ( which measure the absorption of light of a substance), Fraser could identify as having the same concentration as the weakest solution he had prepared, showing that a shop owner had been watering down the fertiliser to sabotage the growth of the prized marrow.

Having taken longer to complete the analytical side of the practical work, the team was left to write a conclusion with follow up questions, which were answered in a shortage of time and unfortunately did not secure them first place.

The experience was both interesting and difficult, while improving their understanding of chemistry through analytical practical skills which will no doubt be good experience for Final in Loughborough university and later life for all three members of the Year 12 The finals took place on a Saturday during the Easter holidays. team. The team were able to use skills and techniques they have Due to the distance we had to travel I wanted everyone to get a never used before and it was a very successful afternoon. We good night’s sleep so we booked into a hotel the night before look forward to another group of students taking part next year – the final. As excited as I was about it all, I could tell that the but it may not be a marrow murderer needing to be caught. students didn’t share my enthusiasm for a long drive together for a chemistry competition! Luckily, I have come prepared! Percy RSC Top of the Bench Pigs and chemistry revision for everyone! This obviously was all Top of the Bench is a national competition run by the RSC for it took before chemistry conversation began to flow. It really was 14-16 year old students. The competition begins with heats like a training session for University Challenge. Our specialist run by RSC Local Sections to select a team to represent the subject: Chemistry. After a long journey with a stop for refuelling section in the UK final the following year. This is the second (students as well as the car), we arrived at the hotel well in time year in a row where a team of four from Durham School have for a bit of r&r before tea. We were all booked into a lovely won the regional heats (Teeside) and gone on to the final in hotel on the Loughborough University campus and the students Loughborough. had some free time to look around. They even used the gym and were offered the Nintendo Wii by the staff. We made a trip Regional Heats to the local McDonalds for tea, where Niall was rained on by a This year our students were Niall Butler (Year 9), Ross Sime (Year broken air conditioner and we mulled over which foods had the 9), Archie O’Dair (Year 10) and Billy Marsden (Year 11). We all most calories before heading back to the hotel for an early night travelled down to Teesside University on a Wednesday afternoon ready for the big day on Saturday. in the first term with a bit of anxiety amongst the students. They It includes a short test of factual chemical knowledge and a Sport were definitely feeling a bit of pressure from last year’s winning practical chemical problem solving team exercise. team and I could feel the tension in the car. As we arrived at Prizes are given for the best overall school performance (the Top the University, excitement set in. I am not known for my sense of of the Bench Team) and for the five runner up teams. The Jacqui direction, but luckily Billy was in the front reading the directions Clee Award is given for an outstanding individual contribution to the car park! If you have never been to Teesside University, I to the day. advise you go and have a look. The students were stunned into silence as we walked through the newly built campus. The car Mrs T. Moore

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1st Hockey Team Heidi Rochester displayed skill, tenacity and real bravery on Back in September 2015, the long season ahead of us started occasions, fielding balls regularly travelling at 70mph! Their with pre-season training as guests of Giggleswick School. We calm distribution of the ball and solid tackling prevented the took a big squad and trained hard over 2 days introducing opposing teams scoring and set up our attack. Midfield was new younger members of the squad in Year 9 and 10 to the driven by Jo Heron, Kari Dougall and Orla Jackson along with winning the Victrix Ludorum. Macleod also won all three rigours of First Team play. This was excellent preparation both Miss Watchman who played in the League matches. Going Girls’ Sport rounders matches. physically and socially as the team really gelled well and we forward their skill in beating opponents allowed us to attack completed the weekend with an 8-0 victory over Giggleswick. successfully and they supported our attackers, Emily Bateson The sports dinner was a great success with the following This season our First team continued to play in the Durham Roseberry, Ellie Heydon and Zara Alexander, who scored The 15-16 season has been very successful in a number awards made: County Womens’ First Division against club teams as far some impressive goals. Olivia Colby, Scarlette Bell and Katie of ways and has been thoroughly enjoyed by all. Year 7 Achievement Lottie Holmes away as Whitby alongside competing in the England Hockey Heslop from the Under 14 squad also played regularly in the Year 7 Commitment Maya Hood National Schools Competition, Tyne and Wear Knockout Cup first squad and with huge potential between them, they made In preparation for the long senior league season the 1st Year 8 Achievement Emily Khan and Jessica Bramwell and playing our regular friendlies against some of the top an excellent contribution and gained valuable experience hockey had a short tour to Giggleswick. They started the Year 8 Commitment Monica Speed Schools in the North. Our friendly fixtures provided us with playing higher level hockey. I must thank all the squad for their season slowly but made great improvements and won a Year 9 Achievement Scarlette Bell and Olivia Colby some tightly fought games with results going either way; we commitment, dedication and good humour throughout this number of matches towards the end of the season. The Year 9 Commitment Katelyn Heslop and Jesica Appleby beat RGS, Dame Allan’s and Barnard Castle, drew with Austin long season and congratulate them on their successes. They 1st netball, despite numerous injuries, won the majority Year 10 Achievement Heidi Rochester and Orla Jackson Friars and Yarm and lost only to Ampleforth. We represented girls have been a pleasure to coach and I wish them the best of matches. In the lower years there is still a restricted number Year 10 Commitment Olivia Soppitt County Durham in the North Regional Schools U18 Finals at of luck in the Independent Schools North of England league of girls so many pupils are playing for older teams giving Year 11 Achievement Sophie Atkinson Pocklington in November; again playing some excellent hockey next season. them great experience. The swimmers once again went to Year 11 Commitment Georgina Brown but unfortunately we had 3 of our players out with illness and the national Bath and Otter cup and the rowers continue Year 12 Achievement Jo Heron injury which depleted our strength. In the Saturday league, Mrs K. Rochester to flourish in all age groups. Year 12 Commitment Anu Krishna our best performances were against Whitby, Sunderland Year 13 Commitment Katherine Pears and Marton Furness and we finished a commendable 7th. 2nd Hockey Team Inter House events as ever were closely fought with Hockey Kirstie Kirkley The league provided challenging hockey but proved a huge This year the second team hockey got off to great start with a Macleod winning 2 of the netball. The cross country and Netball Ella Tunstall and Gabriella Matthews commitment this season, with our team only having Boxing 2-1 win against RGS. With our head held high we then went swimming were dominated by Macleod but Pimlico took Hockey Improvement Emily Bateson Roseberry Day off and us having to play several evening games not on to play Ampleforth where we unfortunately lost. With only the inter House cross country, senior and inter House Tennis Rowan Rochester Swimming Lucy Kirk finishing until 10pm. seven games this season we managed to win one, draw one hockey and netball. X-Country Orla Jackson Connor Award Zara Alexander We had a regular squad of 14 players, captained by Kirstie and lose five. Even though we didn’t have many wins, we Rowing Emily Soppitt and Jodie Cameron Kirkley. The goal keeper position was shared by Sandra Griffin certainly had the spirit. The team consisted of Gabi Matthews, Sports day was much enjoyed by everyone with some great Junior Sportswoman Heidi Rochester and Orla Jackson and Gabi Matthews, both who made some brilliant saves. In keeping us in the game on numerous occasions; Allie Jackson, performances. Macleod took all titles with Lucy McIllroy Senior Sports Woman Rowan Rochester defence, Kirstie Kirkley, Sophie Atkinson, Georgina Brown and Cathia Cummings and Honey Kennedy strong in defence;

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1st Netball Team The First team have had a very successful season this year playing 21 matches, winning 11, drawing 2 and losing 6 with 260 goals scored against 258 conceded. The team were captained by Rowan Rochester and the squad of Gabi Matthews, Emily Bateson-Roseberry, Gabriella Tunstall, Zara Hudson, Kari Dougall, Sophie Atkinson, Georgina Brown and Sandra Griffin showed excellent team work, spirit, enthusiasm and work ethic throughout the season. Their skill and ability was a pleasure to watch and contributed to excellent performances against, RGS, St Leonard’s School, St Cuthbert’s College and Sedburgh. The highlight of the season was our success in the Ampleforth Tournament, where we won all our group games and lost by a final second goal to Ampleforth in the final. The passing, movement, defending and shooting the team displayed in this tournament were some of the best netball we have seen for a long time especially when competing against such physical opponents and in such terrible weather. A very big well done to our First team this season and best of luck for the future.

Mrs S. Sweeting 2nd Netball Team The Durham School second netball team played 78 fixtures this season and had one match cancelled. We enjoyed new fixtures against several local University Colleges in which we were closely matched and also played our regular opposition in friendly fixtures. We lost to Yarm, RGS and Durham High School Under 14 Netball Team and beat St Aidans College 16-5. They have worked hard and The Under 14 team played 22 fixtures throughout the season had good fun playing as a squad this season. Well done to all and found the competition very challenging against some very Laura Mitchelson, Anu Krishna, Zara Hudson and Ella Tunstall Under 12 Hockey Team our girls who have represented the Second Team this season. tall and quick teams. However the squad stepped up to the provided some impressive speed and skill in midfield; Alexandra The Year 7s started the season working hard to develop mark, trained hard and fought well in match play. We scored Grecoe, Helena Campbell and Katherine Pears rotated as left their skills and game play. Hockey was a new game for Mrs S. Sweeting 226 and conceded 265 goals. In the Durham Area league, and right inside forwards, providing crucial links between the several of our girls but they soon learnt how to pass, we lost 3, won 2 and drew one match, finishing in 3rd place midfield and forwards; and finally upfront we had a tremendous tackle and score goals. The first Saturday of the season Under 15 Netball Team with our best performance against Framwellgate School, amount of determination and grit from Megan Brown, Sophie in September was our first match against RGS. “A small squad with a big heart” would be an excellent way winning 17-3. Many of our friendly matches were end to end, Hogg, Lucy McIlroy, Sandra Griffin and Katie Willis. The second Effort levels were excellent but we were playing against of describing this team. The team pulled together and in most exciting games and we lost narrowly to Yarm, Dame Allan’s team was even blessed with the special guest appearance and a more experienced team and lost 5-0. The girls must matches reached a very high level of play despite the small and Sedbergh by only a couple of goals. We did however debut performance from Charlotte Stone. be commended for their superb attitude and their numbers. They won well over 50 % of their matches with Grace have some excellent wins, playing really well against Queen keenness to learn a new sport. Amy Moyes-Reader Carr and Hollie Hilton shooting effectively. A strong win against Mary’s, Austin Friars, Redhouse and Emmanuel College. A big Ella Tunstall, Captain stepped into the goalkeeper role an made some good Durham Johnson and Framwellgate at the beginning of the well done to the Under 14 team who are to be commended saves throughout the season. Rosie Bolam dominiated season gave the team confidence. Orla Jackson worked hard on their dedication and hard work this season and we look Under 14 Hockey Team at the back with excellent tackling and the skill to dribble in mid court bringing the ball from defence to attack and the forward to seeing them play next season. The U14 hockey season was an enjoyable one, with all the the ball forward to support the attack. In midfield, Lottie speed of Sophie Fascione and Olivia Soppitt were a great asset. girls improving both individually and as a team . Holmes had an outstanding season scoring a number Wins against Cundall Manor 16-13 and Park View 9-5 were Mrs K. Rochester Results were mixed but the girls did play some exciting and of goals and she was ably supported by Maya Hood and evidence of the teamwork and timing beginning to fit together. attractive hockey. Asia Koltai-Newton who defended and attacked well. Harder challenges by a strong Sedbergh side, RGS and Red Under 13 Netball Team For the second year running we only had a small group of Hannah Watson assisted by several of our Under 13 House meant the team needed a little more work on blocking Building on a successful season last year, the Under 13 team girls from Year 9 playing. This meant we could call upon some squad played in attack and set up and scored the rest and marking in defence. They took on the challenge and Joely went from strength to strength and with the development and of our talented U13 players and give them the exposure to of our goals. Our team played 10 matches, winning 4 Wood alongside Maddie Clark and Heidi Rochester began to understanding of more advanced tactics, they performed on playing a year up and on a full pitch. Scarlette Bell captained and losing 6. pressurise the opposition attacks. Close games towards the end the whole, really well. They played 20 matches in the Area the team and did an excellent job. Along with Olivia Colby Our highlights of the season were a 4-0 victory against of the season saw us on the winning end which showed the League, friendlies and the Area Tournament. Unfortunately the and Katie Heslop they were the three outstanding players. Dame Allan’s School and 5-0 against Richmond School. defence was working effectively. We beat Durham High 10-9, Under 13’s had a tournament and 4 fixtures cancelled due to All three girls represented the 1st XI in league fixtures on a Well done to all the girls who represented Durham School Austin Friars 15-13 and Barnard Castle 15-14. An excellent poor weather. Out of the 20 games played, we won 13, drew Saturday. I look forward too seeing all the team develop as U12 hockey team; they have been a pleasure to coach season with a huge amount of improvement and much more 1 and lost 6, scoring 220 goals and only conceding 139. hockey players with further hard work at training next season. and I wish them the best of luck next season. consistent play towards the end of the year. Highlights of the season were the games again RGS where we won 14-7, beating Dame Allan’s 17-14 and a very exciting Mr M.Fishwick Mrs K. Rochester Mrs K. Dougall game again Queen Mary’s resulting in a 8-8 draw.

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We finished 3rd in the Durham Area League with Queen Mary’s and Barnard Castle; this was a real shame as players developed in confidence and skill level as They were the deserved overall winners. commendable performances against local teams and won the these are usually excellent games. Maddie Clark consistently the term progressed. Small problems with consistent batting Altogether a very successful and enjoyable season with Durham Area league towards the end of the season playing bowled well and the bowler to backstop, Hollie Hylton worked at the beginning of term were overcome as they began to an enthusiastic team. brilliantly in every game. Congratulations to the Under 13 very well with Hollie taking several excellent catches. We strike and place the ball accurately towards the end of team on a very successful season which reflects the hard work welcomed Dolly He and Christine Zhang to the team and term. Emily Khan batted well throughout the season with Mrs K. Rochester and dedication of all the squad. they picked up the intricacies of the game well and showed Jessica Bramwell and Imogen Nicholson also scoring a lot massive improvement throughout the season. Big hitting from of rounders. Early wins over Choristers 5.5-4 and park View Tennis Mrs S. Sweeting Orla Jackson, Caitlin Hardy and Joely Woods contributed to 14.5-1 gave the team confidence. The tactical awareness and The Under 13 and Under 15 tennis teams competed in the wins against Polam Hall and Durham Johnston. Olivia Soppitt support play in the field was evident. Libby Houston bowled national schools competition . The U13 team of Emily Khan, Under 12 Netball Team commanded the field well at second base stumping out players well with Emily Khan and Cody Alderson getting a large Freya Court, Libby Houston, Jessica Bramwell, Holly Coupe The Under 12 team have had a really busy first netball season and she was supported well by Simone Hardy on third base. number of players out at 1st post. An 18-7 win over Polam and Monica Speed won their first two matches against Biddick at Durham School. With a small year group it was lovely that Well done to the team this season on their performances. Hall and a 9.5-8 win over Johnson were pleasing with Amy 6-0 and Polam Hall 5-1 but lost to a very stong Yarm side all our Year 7 girls played regular fixtures and represented O'Kane taking a number of good catches while Monica Speed 0-6. They also competed in the county cup beating Durham School in friendly games and tournaments. In the Durham Mrs K. Rochester stopped a lot of low balls at third. An extremely close game High and narrowly losing to Barnard Castle and Durham Area league we enjoyed fixtures against local schools including against Durham high also ended in a win 11-10 with Imogen Johnson. They all played some strong tennis with consistent Framwellgate School, Durham Johnston, St Leonard’s, Park Nicholsons skills at second being particularly important. ground strokes in all matches. View, The Choristers and Durham High School A & B. We Mowden Hall and Yarm were our only defeats and on both The U15s beat Biddick 5-1 but lost to Polam Hall 2-4. won 5 out of the 7 fixtures losing only to Durham High A and occasions they had strong hitters who made deep fielders Holly Heidi Rochester, Maddie Clark, Victoria Wong, Imogen drawing with St Leonard’s School. We had similar results in the Coupe and Jessica Bramwell work hard. More wins against Nicholson and Orla Jackson played some good tennis but Area Tournament finishing in 3rd place. Red House 20.5-5.5 and The Framwellgate Moor in the unfortunately were outplayed in the second match by a more Our game play improved steadily throughout the season and league 10.5-4 showed strength in depth with Charlotte Payne consistent opposition. work on passing, moving into space, marking and attacking and Freya Court both batting well and fielding some excellent The 1st team had one match against RGS which they won play really made a difference playing in our friendly fixtures in balls into second bay. 6-3. Rowan Rochester dominating her games but the rest the Spring Term. In our friendly fixtures, we played Terrington In the Tyne and Wear tournament they won all six matches of the team battled hard for a great win.Ellie Heydon, Hall, Cundall Manor, Austin Friars, St Martin’s and RGS with (including Newcastle School for Girls and Durham High.) Cody Zara Alexander, and Sophie Atkinson made up the squad. the highlight being a 6-0 victory over Barnard Castle School Alderson and Charlotte Payne batted well and the whole team and a nailbiting win over Choristers 5 goals to 4. Well done played with excellent tactical awareness and speed of fielding. Mrs K. Dougall to all the Year 7 girls on their excellent attitude both in training and games and their perseverance in some tough fixtures. They will certainly be a team to watch out for in the future.

Mrs S. Sweeting Under 14 Rounders Team Senior Rounders Team The Under 14 rounders team played very well this season. Unfortunately due to the weather the rounders season was They played 14 games in all winning six loosing four and cut short. The 1st team had 3 matches they beat Barnard having three games cancelled. We played three friendlys of Castle 28.5-8.5 and Durham High 23-8 with exceptional which we lost to Sedbergh 6 rounders to 12.5. Polam Hall batting by Rowan Rochester,Kari Dougall and Ellie Heydon. lost 13. 5 to 15 a very close game, and winning to RGS 11 The deep fielding of captain Sandra Griffin to second bay to 10. 5 another nail biting game. We took part in The Tyne stumped a lot of players as did the backstop to Sophie and Wear tournament. Losing to The High School 3 to 4.5. Atkinson at 1st bay. Sedbergh were a tougher challenge We then played RGS and Emanuel winning both games 3 although the match ended in a very close 19-21 oundres. to 1. our last game was against park View which we lost 4.5 Lucy Mcillroy took a number of catches at 3rd bay and Zara to 5.5 some nice standard of play. We also took part in the alexander played well at 4th bay. With Charlotte Davison at Durham League of which we won all our games. Framwellgate 1st deep the team was strong in all areas. was our first game winning 13.5 to5.5 Then the High School The second team only played two matches and unfortunately winning 10 to 9.5 a close game. Durham Johnston was next lost both but all the girls enjoyed there matches. with a winning score of 10 to 6.5 lastly we played Park View we won 9.5 to 4 this put us at the top of the league making us Mrs K. Rochester the league winners. Well done to the whole team. The team consisted of Olivia Colby, Jessica Appleby, Alex Seed, Scarlette Under 15 Rounders Team Bell, Katelin Heslop, Jessica Crawford, Katie Colborn, Alex The Under 15 team ably led by Joely Woods had mixed Bolam, Lucy Hogun, Lilly Kennedy. fortunes this season. We compete in the Durham Area League and also play several friendly fixtures as well. The beginning Mrs S. Sweeting of the season saw us training in snow storms, howling gales and driving rain; not good for squad preparation however Under 13 Rounders Team in the league we made a good start with victories against This has been an exceptional year for the Under 13 rounders. Framwellgate School and Park View. The lousy weather They have won 13 out of 15 games as well as the Tyne and continued which resulted in cancelled games against Yarm, Wear tournament and the area league. A strong squad of 10

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Chloe Bell competed in a Novice double, composting with QE and won their race. The Junior 18 coxless quad was the fastest boat in the second division which Ryan Bewick rowed with two boys from QE and another from Talkin Tarn.

During the initial weeks back into the training programme members of DSBC also started to work in a different domain; coaching. Miss Yates’s interest in working with children with disabilities enabled the sixth formers the chance to accompany her to Trinity School and work with children with a range of Rowing learning, mental, and physical disabilities. There was a lot of interest in the project and the coaches were happy to see the The start of the year saw many changes in the boat club, with two new coaches starting at the School. interest there was in sharing their love of rowing, and give others opportunities that are often taken for granted. The students worked well with the staff and pupils at the school, The start of the year saw many changes in the boat club, with to athletes, and tokens of thanks to a range of students and tested their communication, and displayed good leadership quad and Jodie Cameron, Chloe Bell, Emma Willmott and two new coaches starting at the School; Mr McCarron and parents, acknowledging their help and hard work that keeps skills. Due to the success of the programme we hope to Emily Soppitt came 3rd out of 6 crews in their category. The Miss Yates, and Mr Davison leaving to take on new challenges the boat club ‘afloat’. The evening concluded with a speech continue with this through the next winter season and see boys crew raced as intermediates once again and their coxless in his career. Not only did the club need to adapt to the from Nicole Lamb, an OD and under 23 medallist. She gave more coaching talent and leadership within our athletes. quad consisted of Henning Koencke, Alistair Richardson, changes in staff, but with a number of influential and strong a speech on what hard work and commitment meant to Matthew Storey and Ryan Bewick were they started in 7th members leaving the club to go on to pursue their university her and how these qualities continue to help her on her GB The beginning of November saw a different type of position and finished in 4th, competing against some strong lives; coming into September, the club had a very different feel pathway with the hope to inspire our squads to continue to competition; indoor. Although not as attractive as on the university and club crews. The boys looked strong and had to it. work hard and keep focussed. water, we were able to strongly represent the school at the a good race but their near collision increased their time and County Durham indoor Championships on the 5 November. distance between them and Durham University. The other September saw training kick start with no delays, and it was The head season started at Wansbeck on the 3 October In years 12 and 13 Ryan Bewick and Alistair Richardson got boys crew raced as Novice and were racing for time only. soon clear who had trained over the long summer, and those where we had a number of male and female crews racing. Silver and bronze respectfully, and Jayne Etherington got The coxless quad that consisted of Joe Stelling, Alexander who hadn’t. Nevertheless, everyone worked hard to get their This is where the boys started their long line of success with Bronze for the girls. In the Year 11 competition, Henning Smith, Lee McCarron and Luke Hargreaves looked strong and fitness back and we were in full swing to prepare for the long the intermediate 3 coxless quad being the fastest boat in Koencke took Gold and Nick Blowey and Simon Fascione technically good, going from a starting position of 18th and head season that would shortly be upon us. Winter training their category, and fastest overall boat which was made up took silver and bronze respectively in Year 10. The club coming across the line in 7th place overall. consisted of long pieces on the rowing machines, three 7am of Henning K, Alistair Richardson, Lee McCarron and Ryan managed to get some really good results especially when our strength and conditioning sessions a week and technical focus Bewick. The J17 coxless quad with Matthew Storey, Alexander focus was on long distance up to this point and the indoor We were soon back to racing on home turf at Durham Small on the water. The change in the boys senior squad this year Smith, Joe Stelling and Luke Hargreaves also came 1st in their competition was a sprint event. Boats Head on the 6 February where confidence and skill got saw the introduction of Joe Stelling who took on the challenge category, beating a number of strong crews from the region. us many a win. The boys racked up the wins by coming first of senior training and has progressed well throughout the There were a number of girls crews that performed well but The head season continued at South Hylton on the 7 in the fastest overall coxless quads, the intermediate 2 coxless year. We also had a strong addition to the squad with the missed out on winning their categories due to the strong November, where the rain lashed down and many peoples quads, the Novice coxed fours – compositing with St Leonards arrival of Henning Koencke from Germany who, with the rest female crews in the region. The Junior 15 girls represented water proofs weren’t water proof for long. As the racing School, the Novice coxed quads and the novice single sculls. of the boys, stepped up to the challenge of becoming fully the school and had a good race, using Wansbeck as a good started however, the clouds started to clear, rain started to Again, the girls were represented well but missed out on fledged seniors and hit the training full on. The girls however, introduction to head racing and giving them the feel for more stop, and conditions improved. We had our first girls win with winning through the strength and depth within the region. The found the transition a little more daunting, feeling the loss of head races to come. Jayne Etherington and Emma Reed winning the intermediate event was a success and many of the juniors got to race as squad members leaving the school. However, with the late 2 double. The boys racked up another win in the Junior 17 well as the seniors, the weather was good and the spectators arrival of Emma Willmott into the girls senior squad, the girls On the 17 October, Tees long distance sculls and small coxed quad with Joe Stelling, Danny Paterson, Alexander were not let down with commotion through Elvet Bridge. started to gel and pick up training and commitment. boats head took place. The boys crew of Henning Koenke, Smith and Luke Hargreaves with Charlie Proctor coxing. The Alistair Richardson, Matthew Storey, Ryan Bewick came in as Junior 15 boys also saw a win with Simon Fascione placed Junior Inter regional regatta trials took place this year on the September also saw an increase in junior rowing, resulting the fastest boat in their category once again. The senior girls first in the junior 15 singles. We were certainly happy to get 27 February at Cambois rowing club. The Junior 16 boys in a large number of Year 10 boys and the largest number represented the school in both divisions and the junior 15 home that day, each with a carrier bag full of wet clothes. coxed four composite with two St Leonards School, Henning of Year 10 girls we have had for a number of years. Many girls experienced a full length head race; being a shock to Koencke, Joe Stelling and coxed by Alexander Smith who of them picked up the sport quickly and have continued the system but not phasing them to want to compete in a long The Tri School competition or the ‘Tri Wizard Cup’ as many went on to win their category and were therefore secured into the regatta season, making their debuts for the school distance race again. call it, is a traditional race between St Leonards School, Yarm, a place in the Junior Inter regional regatta later on in the and building some good friendships and crews. We look and ourselves which took place at Yarm School, giving us all season. There was good performances from the junior 15 forward to seeing these individuals progress into the senior The next head race was on home turf, and the 31 October an opportunity to work on some different water and to see boys; Patrick Miller, Doug Whitefield, Jack Coupe and Simon programme next year and reach their rowing potential. saw Durham long distance sculls in full swing. Here the boys their impressive new club house. We represented the school in Fascione coxed by Ben Lumsden in their four and quad, met their challenge and were five seconds behind the fastest a number of categories and fought well down the 3000 metre looking technically stronger in the four, clearly feeling more Whilst getting into the swing of training we also had the crew in the first division; Chester Le Street. The Novice coxed course, but due to come good crews and larger numbers, we comfortable sweeping. There was really good progress from Annual Dinner approaching which gave the new members quad won their category in division two with Joe Stelling, came second overall. the junior 15 girls at the trials both through their racing of staff chance to meet parents, pupils and past and present Alistair Richardson, Matthew Story and Luke Hardgreaves technique and confidence, with both the coaches and the crew members of the boat club. The night was held at the Ramside coxed by Charlie Procter. The senior girls coxed quad of Jayne Tyne United Rowing Club and Durham Universities New Years being pleased with how they performed. Hall Hotel and was a relaxed and enjoyable evening, Etherington, Chloe Bell, Emma Reed and Anu Krishna coxed Head took place on the Tyne on the 23 January. Conditions allowing us to celebrate the past year of rowing successes by Fiona Sime had a strong race, finishing only 3 seconds were windy and therefore a little choppy, but not too testing Our biggest competition of the year so far soon approached and achievements. We had a selection of prizes to hand out behind the winning crew in their category in the first division. for the Tyne. The senior girls had a strong race in their coxless and on the 17 March where we travelled down to London to

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take part in the National Schools Head of the River. We set With a good warm up from the night before the Junior inter they took part in novice doubles, having an easy first As exams started, training became a challenge for different off in good time with the two crews of Jodie Cameron, Chloe regional regatta crew of Henning Koenke, Joe Stelling, the heat but having to put up more of a fight in the final to reasons and managing time became harder and vital in Bell, Emma Willmott and Emily Soppitt for the girls and Ryan two St Leonards School boys and Alexander Smith coxing, set win their category. creating the balance between studying and preparing for Bewick, Henning Koencke, Alisdair Richardson and Luke off to Nottingham to represent not only the school but their National School Regatta. Time tables were compared and Hargreaves. Arriving at the hotel in good time we got our region. After their time trail they then took to the water to race Several crews made finals at the regatta and a number training slots agreed by coaches and by Friday 27 there was evening meal and after crew briefings about the challenges of their semi-final. The race didn’t go to plan and they scraped of pupils made their Durham School debuts for the boat nothing more we could do as we set off to Eton Dorney to row the Thames, we all got an early night to prepare for the long into the final. With some strong but reassuring words from club. Megan Harvey and Katie Nesbitt were particularly on the Olympic lake. day ahead. one another and a few deep breaths they took to the water for impressive as they won their heat in their first rowing race the last time that day. The boys changed their race completely for the school, only having picked up the sport a few After the long drive down, rigging the boats ready for the For some students it was their first time at this competition and and rowed with power down the course, coming 4th out of months before. next day and finding the hotel, the Friday night was thankfully the experience of rowing on the Thames was not only a shock 12 overall; a great result. calm and relaxed. We ate supper, had a crew talk and went but a great reward and something they will always remember. Tees regatta on the 21 May gave us the most challenging through our race plans, and after some gossiping from the The weather was lovely and we felt blessed that the sun shone weather yet as at lunch time a thunder storm approached, girls and Fifa playing from the boys, everyone started to for us. There was a slight wind, but nothing to make the crews but it didn’t phase our junior 15 girls who stormed through wind down for a much needed long nights sleep. Filling our worry as they took to the water for their pre-race paddle to the rain and wind to get into the final. Katie Nesbitt, Megan boots with the buffet breakfast made sure that we were ready rid them of their anxiety and race day nerves. Both crews Harvey, Olivia Soppitt and Lucia Speed coxed by Heidi for the long day ahead. We arrived at the lake around 8:30 raced well and kept their technique and power within their Rochester came off the water looking very bedraggled and and the girls were first to take to the water at 9:30, closely crews. The boys came 12th out of 30, a very pleasing result extremely soggy, although they were all still smiling. With followed by the boys. for a tough and well represented category. The girls came a some hot drinks, dry clothes and team work they took to the respectable 25th out of 28, representing the North East in a water again and secured 3rd place overall. The girls had a tidy race and did what they could, but very tough, and southern dominated race. fighting a hard battle against bigger girls and clubs with a Before the bad weather hit, the senior boys won their lot more depth, they unfortunately didn’t qualify. They took With all this racing we thought it was about time to host We were soon back onto home turf as Durham City Regatta Intermediate coxless quad event to start the day, with Henning the news really well and the coaches were proud of how an event for the boat club, get everyone out of the took place on the 7 and 8 of May, which saw some really Keonke, Alistair Richardson, Luke Hargreaves and Ryan they responded, taking a mature approach to the day. school environment and celebrate, and what better way to strong performances for the first regatta of the season. The Berwick making a strong start to the regatta season. The They continued to enjoy the experience, weather and do this than to have a Ceilidh! So, on the evening before junior 18 boys first coxless quad got into the final out of 9 junior 18 girls raced well and held their power which was a supporting the boys through their races. The first quad didn’t the junior inter regional regatta, around 70 people took to boats, fighting all the way but narrowly missed out against good confidence boost for them and good preparation for produce their best race in the time trials, dropping their pace the Ramside to celebrate the boat club. The night was a York. The other junior 18 coxless quad; The Sharks, as they national schools regatta that was to follow. and strength when they needed to hold it. As before though, complete success with everyone getting up on the dance have named themselves, had tough heat and didn’t manage they managed to reflect on their performance and have a floor, enjoying the live music, and devouring the delicious to get through their heat. Our third entry into the Junior 18 The junior 13 boys did really well in their straight final, fighting much stronger race, coming second in the E final. beef pie which gave us the boost we needed to carry on. coxless quads consisted of a combination of people’s first their opposition till the end of the 850 metre course and only What was particularly enjoyable to see was those pupils who race, and a number of novice rowers. The inexperienced just missing out on first place. The junior 15 boys raced in an were determined that they were not going to dance, yet they crew did extremely well and held off their opposition but were eight for the first time and their good team work and excellent never left the dance floor! unfortunately then drawn into the bank by an unknown force coxing from Ben Lumsden give them a strong race but it where their race came to a premature and abrupt stop. wasn’t enough for the well drilled Yarm opposition.

The regatta saw the senior girl’s first win in their four where Towards the end of the challenging day Ryan Berwick and they were competing in a straight final against Hatfield Mr Lee MacCarron won their intermediate pair in their College in the Intermediate 2 category. The crew gave the straight final against Bradford grammar school, securing the opportunity for Emma Willmott to stroke her first regatta race, second win of the day. The real feel of a team and club really with Jodie Cameron backing her up, followed by Emma Reed shone through at Tees regatta, where everyone was helping and Chloe Bell and coxed by Fiona Sime. each other to boat, carry equipment, and run round trying to find people shoes! The coaches all noticed the team spirit The second quad had a strong time trial and were really On the Sunday, Jack Coupe won his single race in the U15 and were all very proud of the club and how we worked happy on how it felt and the result they got. As with the other single sculls, having to race his crew mate, Simon Fascione. together and supported each other throughout the long and crew, they fought hard in their final and were happy with their Chloe Bell also performed well in her QE composite when testing day. result, finishing 6th in the F final.

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A number of the students that went to the National Schools performances throughout, making a good link between Regatta hadn’t been before, they hadn’t experienced the buzz Northern Clubs. The same girls showed great determination of high competition, been up against prestigious clubs and when facing the challenges of their double competitions. With soaked in the atmosphere. It was lovely to see them enjoying the test of being in the double being away, representing the club and acting as a team. only a few times before the race Megan Harvey and Katie Nesbitt had a rocky start but did the club proud as After half term we were refreshed and ready to start last they pushed through to the finish, showing strength and minute preparations for Durham Regatta, our largest event determination. Lily Beveridge and Heidi Rochester were of the year. On home turf, home water, and being founders well-tuned and won their first heat but unfortunately lost in of the regatta, Durham School celebrates the event over the semi-final. Even more pleasing was seeing Katie Heslop both days. We showed our strength and depth of the club by having to row with a girl from Chester Le Street who filled putting out our best crews alongside involving the younger in, racing an age category up and having never rowed and less experienced rowers in the event. together before the girls got through two heats.

We started off the regatta with the junior 13 boys in their The Saturday evening saw our usual picnic on the river bank coxed quad of Dan Coleman, Max Eyers, Cameron Regan- but for a change we had decided this year to have a hog Teasdale, Alex Carr and sam Hall coxing . The boys fought roast. It was a great success and regardless of the rainfall well down the 700m course but unfortunately weren’t as everyone got their fill and enjoyed the evening huddling under gelled as the Choristers boys. The competition turned to the the marquee and sharing experiences of the day. After some older boys who won the boys J15 8+ event which consisted more tidying up and locating of wondering kit and belongings, of Simon Fascione, Jack Coupe, Nick Blowey, Patrick Miller, we set off home ready for an early night in preparation to do Thomas Panter, Paddy Kell, Doug Whitefield, Harry Thopson, it all again. with Ben Lumsden coxing in a straight final against Yarm who had previously beat us in the season. The novice boys coxed Sunday started with the Novice coxed fours where they headed four race gave us some hard racing and fierce competition. to the water determined, the J15 crew, each carrying their competition; the coxless quads where Anu Krishna, Chloe Bell, up some of the heritage that is ingrained into this fantastic The crew of Alexander Smith, Alex Jones, Matthew Storey, Joe oars and Ben Lumsden carrying his four litres of squash and a Lily Beveridge and Emma Reed were against Chester le Street place. On arrival at the hotel everyone could relax in the pool Stelling and Max George coxing; an OD, took the competition kettle bell for his dead weight. Simon Fascione, Jack Coupe, and put up a good fight, but with some steering issues and a the night before and everyone was clearly excited for in their stride, winning the category and the prestigious Nick Blowey and Patrick Miller with Ben Lumsden coxing won strong opposition they didn’t beat them. The other crew in the the amazing challenge and experience that they would Mayors Plate. We entered the open junior 16 coxless quads their first race against a college crew but unfortunately lost same category which consisted of Miss B. Yates, Becca Melvile, have the next day. with a composite with Gateshead and Bradford Grammer their second. The second four comprising of three J15s (Paddy Emily Soppitt and Jodie Cameron won their first race and were school where we took the title and first place with only being Kell, Thomas Panter and Elliot Edworthy coxing) and two up against Leeds University in the final. They showed a strong Everyone was treated to a lie in due to the uncivilised time in the boat together five minutes before the race. senior boy’s Ian Richardson and Alex Dryden, were defeated race in a scratch crew and showed a respectable performance of 7pm that the Fawly time trail began. The day was full of by the overall winners from Northumbria University. and only missed out by half a length. preparation for the race and when they boys eventually got The girls also showed some strong competition and on the water they rose to the challenge of competing on such although there were no wins, we showed great technical ability After the time trails of the day the boys junior 18 coxless The novice eight had two changes from the previous day’s J15 a prestigious course. Both crews unfortunately missed out on and strong racing. The women’s IM2 coxed fours quads were drawn against St Leonards first who they beat then eight with Alex Dryden and Ian Richardson in. Unfortunately, qualification for the regatta due to the extremely high standard event got us a tough draw against Durham University and with met Doncaster in the Final which again they beat, winning they were not able to beat a tidy looking college crew in their of crews attending. However, everyone agreed that they still put a substitution at last minute, Jodie Cameron, Emily Soppitt, the category. In the boys intermediate coxed quads Alasdair semi final. in a solid race that they were happy with; a true reflection of Emma Reed and Miss B. Yates showed good technical ability, Richardson, Luke Hargreaves, Alex Jones, Matthew Storey how far the boys squad has come since the start of the year. had a strong race and felt positive about their performance met our other DUS crew in the final, where Mr L. McCarron, Heidi Rochester was the only junior 15 to race in a single even though we lost by a respectable length and a half. The Ryan Bewick, Peter Fisk (OD), Alexander Smith and Fiona Sime at the weekend, showing strength not only in a crew boat As the end of the year comes to a close it is safe to say that junior 15 girls did a complete Durham School crew and a coxing won the competition. but also having the skills and confidence to race in a single the club has had a successful year in both performance and composite with Queen Elizabeth High School in the coxed scull. She get a bye into a straight final against a girl from Tyne partipation aspects. The club has grown not only in strength quads and they all performed really well throughout the The girls rowed well in their time trial and put in some good who represented the North East at regional trials. Heidi put up but depth of members and rowing particiapants, a lot of who competition. The composite with Lily Beveridge and Fern competition but unfortunately it wasn’t enough as only one a good fight against her competition and gained on her in the have involved themselves in local clubs to keep them training Hodgson got through two heats and showed some strong crew didn’t make it through. They still fought hard in their next second half of her race, doing herself and the coaches proud. throughout the long summer. The club has not only performed well on the water but has shown true grit, team work and With the end of a long and successful year for the boat club strength of character throughout the challenges this year has fast approaching, the senior boys squad headed down to thrown at them. Henley-on-Thames to race at the Henley Qualifiers. There was no doubt that the boys were aware of the fierce competition We look forward to next year and to see the return of all three that they would face in the qualifiers for the coaches, the increase in the senior section, and eagerly await Fawly Challenge Cup (junior coxless quads), however they more paticipants coming up through the school. We also sadly were all determined to make sure that they had the best say good bye to two influential girls, Emily Soppitt and Jodie race of their year. Cameron who have both done the club and school very proud through there time at Durham and we wish them the best of The boys had the opportunity to have a paddle on the luck for their future adventures. course when they arrived on the Thursday night to see what they would be facing the next day and also to soak Miss B. Yates

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James Elliott (1st team captain) has recently accepted a reaching the final of the Merchiston Castle sevens tournament they fell to their first loss of the season. professional contract with Yorkshire Carnegie in conjunction and our performance on the first day of Rosslyn Park. Boys’ Sport with Leeds Beckett University and we wish him all the best as This game proved to be costly in other areas as injuries he pursues his ambitions to play at the highest level. Reece The season this year has been one we will never forget, and followed meaning that as a squad we spent most of our time Reece Amir Amir was selected to play against Wales for England U16s I’d like to thank the lads for the efforts they have given. It has struggling for front row players and played many spells of with many others in the U16 team playing for the Newcastle been a pleasure to be a part of and especially to captain. In games with uncontested scrums from then on. Falcons Academy team. particular, I’d like to say a massive thank you to the lads in the u6 who have finished their time playing for Durham School This did not however worry the squad and they continued First Team Captain’s Speech including, Fred, Lewis, Josh, Ben, Alex, Euan, Austin, Charlie, to pick up results. A strong attacking performance against a Ladies, gentleman, Headmaster, honoured guests, Jacob, Garry, Connor and Harry who have made this year as big Hartlepool Sixth Form College team in the Natwest Cup enjoyable as it has been. meant that we went into this year’s Veterimmi Competition at Going into your final season at Durham school is a daunting Cheltenham College with only one loss. experience, it is a massive motivator for the lads to come I would also like to give a massive thank you to the parents, together and perform as a team. who have turned out whether it was wet or dry, cold or freezing, home or away and have made this season possible This year we started the season as a close group of friends and as good as it has been. Thank you. and finished it even closer. Probably too close. We won as a team and lost as a team, like any Durham School side Finally, I would like to thank big and small, tall and short, big should. This made the wins extremely satisfying but the losses head and normal sized head…. more hurtful. Luckily for us no matter how the result went we always had swimming on a monday morning, and the Mr Bedworth and Mr Mason for the time and effort that they changing room before a swimming session at half 7 on a have given to the team and the coaching that they have monday morning is not a good place to be. ‘Why do I play offered. It has made us the players that we are, and without rugby?’ and ‘I think I hate my life’ being said every session them this team would have achieved nothing close to what it was always a great motivator to start the week. ‘Get in has. Finally, I would like to invite some of the lads to come up the pool’… ‘It’s not even cold’… ‘Connor you look very and give you a gift from all of the squad. tanned’…. ‘Charlie have you put some weight on?’…. ‘Lewis will you please buy some bigger swimming trunks’ Floreat Dunelmia. were also said by Mr Bedworth every week. James Elliott - 1st XV Captain On the first day we drew with Sherborne 10-10 playing so The start of the season went very well, due to a very productive good Rugby and followed this with an outstanding attacking pre-season and Chris Malherbe and Adam Morton turning 1st XV Rugby display against Cheltenham which progressed us into the Rugby up again for the Strength Camp and pushing us to new limits Over recent years the level of work that is put in during pre- final against a very big and physical St. Pauls. Tired bodies The 2015/16 season has seen a number of outstanding for what felt like a week. This hard work and training during season and the type of attitude shown by the squad whilst and a poor performance by our standards resulted in 22-5 results. The school has yet again fielded two teams in each pre-season paid off as beat Kings Macclesfield in the first being put through their paces by Chris Malherbe and Adam loss, however it had been a great event which all our boys age group meaning that the number of boys representing game with Joe Nordli and Cameron Keanurico saving us Morton is a clear indicator of how good a season can be. This thoroughly enjoyed. In two years’ time this will be based the School in the game is maintained. The School has also at the end. We then beat RGS Newcastle and their abusive group of players were clearly motivated to do well. in London at St. Pauls which is definitely something to look continued to host many competitions with the Bain Cup this crowd at Kingston park, although the Rugby was somewhat forward to the current Year 12 & 11s. year being hosted in partnership with Northumbria University enjoyable the highlight of the evening was the chanting There was a strong spine of 1st team experience in the squad at Bullocksteads having 20 teams from across the North of from the RGS fans aimed at Lewis Miller. A quick shout out with James Elliott, Ben Langthorne, Garry Izomor, Harry After Half term started on a positive note with a England and Scotland in attendance, making it one of the to Lewis Miller and Austin Anderson, who unfortunately Pearson, Charlie Scott, Alex Vassallo, Connor Stewart and comfortable win against Yarm which proved to be our final premier tournaments on the circuit. cannot be here tonight as they are taking part in Greece Austin Anderson all being regular players in the previous victory of the season. Again Injuries were the contributing the musical, showing how diverse our squad really is. season. This was at its most evident in our first game against factor but also these fixtures were against strong opposition. There have also been a number of standout moments, a a strong King’s Macclesfield team who had recently toured A narrow loss against Woodhouse was followed by a last ditch penalty kick to win the RGS Newcastle game at Following the RGS Newcastle game, we had a good run of South Africa. The team defended for vast periods of the game disappointing loss to RGS Newcastle in the Natwest Cup Kingston Park, the U16s beating Sedbergh School 42-12 form up until we played Sedbergh. We played very well but including a last second try-saving play by Cameron Keanurico a game we fancied to win. St Peter’s, York ended up being and continuing their great run of success in sevens, and the unfortunately didn’t have the depth they had on the bench to after Joe Nordli has sidestepped 4 players to score just minutes the final performance of the season due to Barnard Castle U15s team performance against Ripon Grammar in the finish off the game. But the lads gave everything and we are before to hold them off. This showed that the squad had both being cancelled due to weather, and one I am sure some Natwest Cup showing what great potential this year group very proud of our performance. character and commitment and this was the start of a string of of the squad would rather forget. possesses. There are also many more moments which I am good results. sure the coaches will mention in their articles. After the disappointment, we carried on with our season On a whole this year must go down as a success for a number playing in some quality games, including winning the Noel A last minute James Elliott penalty kick to beat RGS Newcastle of reasons. The effort and determination of a small squad The end of season dinner at the Ramside Hall Hotel was Shearing cup again vs Ampleforth, defeating Brinkburn College in front of a partisan crowd at Newcastle Falcons was followed was unquestionable, many Year 11 players stepped up to the a fitting finish to the year and again all the captains made in the Natwest Schools Cup and winning 3 out of 4 games by wins against Dame Allans, Leeds Grammar and Hymers level and finally we played some outstanding Rugby at times. impressive speeches highlighting the ups and downs of at the V4 festival. Unfortunately, we lost to RGS Newcastle in College. This meant that moving into the Sedbergh week the Overall as a squad they were a joy to coach and on behalf of their team’s seasons in front of 230 people. the next round of the Natwest Cup despite scoring an early try boys were positive and motivated for a big performance, and myself and Mr Mason I would like to thank the boys for making through Will Grey. for 55 minutes that is what happened. A tiring team were then it such an enjoyable year. Individual success in representative Rugby has been the challenged by 7 Sedbergh players fresh from the bench a play result of many players’ commitment to training and playing. In terms of sevens, the highlights of the season included that eventually proved a challenge too much for our boys as Mr M. Bedworth 1st XV Coach

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group we played some outstanding Rugby beating the previous Our weekend fixtures continued against Dame Allan’s, with favour. With a number of boys playing for the 1st XV we lost to year’s U16s winner Reigate and cruising to wins against some another huge win, 60 points this time. The Hawks were strong a physical Leeds Grammar School 5-10 and then we lost to much bigger schools than ourselves. This lead to a last 32 in defence and attack with the U16’s slotting in seamlessly. St Peter’s York in the last play of the game 15-20. Aside from game against Dulwich College. In this game we played some Unfortunately our momentum was broken when Hymers these two losses, the U16 team dominated their rugby circuit in of our best sevens to date against a very strong side. A last couldn’t field a team against us. The final game before half- an uncompromising and impressive fashion. Never have I seen gasp fumble popped into their possession and that was game term was against our bogey team, Ampleforth. The Hawks had a school boy team defend with such intensity and attack with a over 19-17. What we had not understood is that by making a strong feeling that we could break our long-standing hoodoo clinical edge. The 386 points scored and 72 points conceded the last 32 we had qualified for the Vase on the second day. against a perennially strong team. Once again our defence highlights this well. This was a great success for the team and one they were imploded and whilst we went down to a 13-0 loss, in reality extremely proud of. We started well the next day beating Judd the difference between the two teams was much greater. One Arguably the highlight of the 15 a-side season was when we 28-24 but losing to Malvern College and Whitchurch which man stood out, Sam Newton. Since his return from injury, he went away to play Sedbergh. We had our full strength squad knocked us out. This was still one of strongest performances had overseen 2 huge wins and almost single handedly pulled and the conditions suited a fast and expansive game of rugby. at the National Sevens for a long time so the team should be Durham out of the mire here. A sign of a good referee is when It was one of those days where everything clicked and I can 1st VII Rugby proud of that achievement. you don’t notice them, everyone noticed this one. Our game is genuinely say I have not seen an U16 team perform so well for The Sevens season was badly affected by the weather this based on fast, free-flowing rugby. We were not able to do this the entire game, winning 42-12. year with two major tournaments (North of England and Although through reading this article the season might not here due to the whistle being blown at what seemed like every Mount St Mary’s) cancelled which is always a disappointment seem a great success, it was good fun and throughout the breakdown. The 2nd XV had to wait nearly a month for their The success experienced throughout the season was down for all involved. squad trained with real purpose and for that I must thank them. next game after Yarm could not field a team against us. The to a number of factors; the boys worked incredibly hard for Three of the squad were selected for the Gilbert Super Seven- U16’s joined us again to make the ‘Turbo Hawks’. We played each other when playing in matches and they brought an This year we thought we had a good mix of size, skill and a team created by Ben Mason and consisted of the best players a very hard-hitting Woodhouse Grove School on what can unparalleled physicality to both training and playing. ‘Sir, can speed to be competitive on the circuit and the was most from the HMC North East Super Sevens competitions and I only be described as the narrowest pitch on the circuit. This we play contact against the first team?’ being a question that definitely the case, but at times inconsistency was our downfall must congratulate Josh Pratt, Garry Izomor and James Elliott immediately nullified our attacking threat out wide. Nathan was asked a number of times, will live long in my memory! which cost us is some of the close games. who represented the school on that day. Bushnell, Saki Kaitoga and Max Weightman did their utmost In addition to this, we have had some fantastically talented to break through in a very tight game. We scored 2 clear players who have set the standard for the rest of the team to The season started at the County Sevens held at Yarm. The Mark Bedworth 1st XV Coach tries that were called back for forward passes which turned follow. Rhys Amir must be congratulated for being selected team cruised through the group without really hitting full speed. out to be the difference in a 13-10 loss. Our final game of for the England U16 team and Cameron Keanurico, Kyle This possibly lead to some complacency and in the semi-final the season saw Jonty Megginson move to 9 as injuries and Elliott represented the Falcons in the rugby festival at we met a very physical Barnard Castle team who wanted it call-ups to the 1st XV took their toll. We fielded just 14 against Wellington College. more than us on the day beating us by two tries in the end. our rivals, and being great sportsmen, they kept 15 on the This was disappointing, but at the same time there were pitch….. The scoreline was a fair reflection of the game, but Our captain, Max Weightman, has been instrumental in the glimpses in that game of what we were capable of. they went home battered and bruised. Adi Hitchins doing his success of the team; he has always lead by example, both utmost to run through every one of their players. Our lineout when training and playing. His skillful, yet hard working and Next was the Bain Sevens at Bullocksteads. The team were failed to function allowing St. Peter’s to play the game on the tough approach was reflected in the efforts of the rest of up for the day, strengthened by a couple of the successful front foot throughout. the team. Year 11 team and started well with convincing wins over Dame Allans, Woodhouse Grove, Ripon Grammar and High School It is a shame not all the players can be mentioned more, but of Dundee which put us through to the quarter-final against to the departing Year 13 boys; Jonny Hedly, Lorenz Lurozcik, Bradford Grammar. We started the game strongly taking a Verus von Haeften and Iain Choyce, I hope you have enjoyed two try early lead through some impressive play, but Bradford your rugby during your time at Durham School. For the Year never looked beaten and battled hard to stay in the game with 2nd XV Rugby (The Hawks) 13 boys; Phil Chapman, Will Sopp, Adi Hitchins, Cameron a late try in the first half. This was followed soon after with a The 2nd XV started the season in earnest with a tough Wright, Jonty Megginson, Will Bowles, Nathan Bushnell, Joe breakaway from a mistake by us midfield. Our heads went pre-season leading into an outstanding 10-0 victory over Nordli, Simon Turnbull, Henry Hudson and Alex Sablin, I hope down and unfortunately they scored close to the end to make RGS on the Hawks Nest. Defence was key here and one that you carry the strong tradition of the Hawks into the 2016- it 15-19 and knock us out of our tournament. Bradford did missed tackle by RGS cost them the game. No one player 17 season. Our game is based on enjoyment and playing the go onto the final losing to a very powerful Kirkham side in stood out, this was a true team performance led ably by game hard and fair. I think we managed that this season. As a the end. Jonny Hedley and Simon Turnbull’s solo try clinching the wise Hawk once said, ‘Hawks fly together, Hawks die together, game. We had set the marker for season ahead, but we Hawks for life’. Ampleforth Sevens proved to be a tournament too much for us came crashing down to earth on a beautiful day down in after the weekends efforts and was followed by a break in the Leeds. Out-muscling GSAL at the breakdown and offering Jonny Hedley Under 16 VII Rugby calendar due to heavy rain, snow and frost. This proved to be more in attack, Joe Nordli standing out here, we somehow The during the Easter term, the U16s embarked on their 7s good timing as we travelled to Merchiston Castle well rested managed to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory. A second Under 16 Rugby journey, which was to prove incredibly successful. The weather and ready to improve after 2 weeks good training. Strong half defensive implosion saw us ship four unanswered tries. The U16 Rugby team continued their excellent run of form this during this time of year is very unpredictable and unfortunately performances in the group qualified us for a final against Twice we were felled inside their 5 metre line late on as season. Going in to the season they had lost only two games led to the cancelation of the Sedbergh Merchiston which we unfortunately lost. This didn’t dampen Cameron Wright and man-of-the-match, Phil Chapman just of rugby since coming together in Year 9. With this in mind the feeling in the camp as the team had enjoyed playing better missed out on the elusive try line. A mid-week fixture gave they were the team to beat on the circuit and the boys knew it 7s and the QEGS 7s competitions. Nevertheless, impressive Rugby and had found the style that worked for them. us the opportunity to rectify our poor defensive organisation was going to be a challenging campaign. performances saw the squad win the RGS 7s, comfortably against a robust King’s Priory 1st XV. We ran them ragged beating Sedbergh in the final, the County 7s where we beat This left Rosslyn Park. As a school we had not made the throughout. Even our huge bench didn’t affect our continuity The two games that we lost were both very tight affairs and Barnard Castle in the final. With the Rosslyn Park 7s looming, second day for a long time, so this was the first goal. In the as we amassed a 50-point win. with the bounce of the ball, the results could have gone in our the U16s made the long journey across the border to play in

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the Merchiston Castle 7s. True to form the won this The inclusion of U14’s Jonny Bushnell, Ewan Lydiatt, Owen Niall Butler led the backline of Jonny Bushnell, Will like to thank the players, who played for each other not just competition convincingly. Vassallo and Nick Marsden brought a renewed strength to Tomlinson, Tom Dexter, David Gardiner, Ian Wren, Jared with each other, and made me proud every weekend. the squad and allowed the boys to achieve a more consistent Warby, Tom Watson, Ewan Fox and Nathaniel Stanford Having never lost a 7s fixture, we took a strong squad down performance over 60 minutes on the pitch. After beating Dame admirably. Niall deserves special credit for the amount of Dr M. Smith to the Rosslyn Park National 7s, the biggest school boys rugby Allan’s 34-19, we registered an away victory against Ripon focus, bravery and effort he exerted over the course of the tournament in the world. Playing over two days, we had some Grammar School, with a magnificent team display, overcoming season and he was a major factor in the results turnaround. Under 13 Rugby excellent wins in day one against Warwick (21-19) and Harrow a big physical side and walking out 34-10 winners. Friendly I’m optimistic that the boys will be able to build on some of The U13 rugby team started their season with a bang; (24-19). This was an incredibly tough first day, but the wins wins against Yarm and Harton followed, before the 5th round their excellent performances this season and continue to grow recording a narrow victory against RGS B team. Some meant we had qualified for day two. After a shaky start against crunch tie with RGS Newcastle in the Natwest Cup. The boys as individual players and as a team next year. And please excellent rugby was played, with strong tackling on show from Trent College, we managed to win 31-17, which put us in to played admirably in the first half leading 3-0 at half time, boys, make sure you hit the ground running in September! Isaiah Jones, Edward James and Nathaniel Stanford. This the quarter finals. Unfortunately this was to be our last game. however tired in the 2nd half, eventually losing 22-3. The team provided the boys with a good platform to kick on from, and Nothing was left on the pitch and we ended up losing in the had come a long was from the start of the season and could Mr O. Hughes while results didn’t go our way during the season I have been last minute of the game to New Hall School. This was an be very proud of their efforts. impressed with how the team developed. Given the size of the incredibly achievement, by a very talented group of players. Under 14 b Rugby year group, we struggled against some of the larger schools, With close to 150 teams entering the tournament, getting to Mr A. Smith The Under 14 ‘Killer’ Bs had a tough season but can be many of which had big strong runners in their team. At U13 the last 8, and only narrowly losing, demonstrates just how proud of some strong victories over teams such as Yarm and level, this can make a huge difference to the result. To the good this team has been. It was the first time that they had Ampleforth. More impressive, however, was the spirit that the boys’ credit, they worked really hard in training and our ball lost a game of sevens since joining as a year group in Year 9. team showed in every game. At the beginning of the season, retention improved hugely. This was particularly evident when All in all, they have played 73 games of 7s and won 72, the team set out with the ethos that every man mattered and we played Yarm School, where we frequently kept the ball for a very impressive record! although players came and went, the team strived at all up to 10 phases at a time. times to support each other. This led to a number of excellent I have thoroughly enjoyed coaching all of the players involved team performances, brought about by every player playing Ewan Greenlaw has been a good addition to the team, in the U16 rugby squads over the course of the year. The effort their best for the good of the team, not just for themselves. bringing a physical edge to the midfield, both in attack and that have put in the some of the rugby that they have played This was embodied by our first captain of the year, Jenson defense. In addition to this, Edward James and Max Eyers has been outstanding and they have really helped to put Hibbitts, who led the team selflessly until his season was have brought dynamism and speed to our attack, which has Durham School rugby on the map. I would like to thank the ended by injury. However, he was ably replaced by Guy been pleasing to see. George Horner and Piers Oxenham boys for their efforts and I would particularly like to thank Max Oliver, who continued to set the tone of teamwork and have demonstrated some excellent evasive running and Weightman, who has captained the side superbly. There cooperation over individual gain. scored some impressive tries. is some serious potential amongst this group of players and Under 14 Rugby I would be surprised if some of the boys don’t go on to play The 2015 season was a period of personal and team based The ‘Killer B’ spirit was on full display on a number of The foundations for a good team are there with this group at a very high level. Well done to all! growth for all the boys involved in the squad. Some tough occasions throughout the season when, despite arriving at a of players. While physical size hasn’t been on their side this early losses in September against the likes of RGS Newcastle, number of fixtures without all 15 players, the team welcomed season, the skill level that they have developed and the attitude Mr P. Dias King’s Macclesfield and the Grammar School at Leeds opposition players and made them feel a part of the team. to continue to try their best, no matter the score-line, has resembled basketball scores and left the group fearing A particular highlight in this respect was the fixture against put them in good position to improve from as they progress a season of perennial disappointment. the Grammar School at Leeds when the boys enjoyed a through the school. match in which both teams merged. Other highlights this However, the boys turned out to be more mentally and season included David Hardern’s ferocious tackling, Max I have thoroughly enjoyed coaching this group of players physically resolute than they ever originally imagined, Eyers’ pitch-long sprint for the line in the GSAL fixture and over the course of the Christmas and Easter terms, they have going on to turn their fortunes around rapidly. Brilliant wins Leo Giacomelli’s consistent strength and leadership in the trained and played with enthusiasm and I would like to thank against Kings Priory School, Dame Allan’s, Hymers College, back line. them for their efforts. I would particularly like to congratulate Ampleforth, Yarm and Woodhouse Grove offset losses Isaiah on the excellent job that he has done in captaining against a gigantic Sedbergh side and the aforementioned The team was also often bolstered by a strong contingent the side. I have no doubt that as this group of players trio during the painful early season weeks. of Under 13 players who turned up each and every week it progress through the school, they will turn around a number would be remiss not to thank them, especially for the times of the results that have gone against them this season. Well The team were lucky to have some terrific leaders in they were playing against opposition who were bigger than done to all involved! key positions who could inspire the troops at pivotal they were. Thanks also go to the parents who leant their Under 15 Rugby moments. Niall Butler, David Gardiner, Conor Dougall support to the team each and every week. Finally, I would Mr P. Dias The U15s endured a difficult but ultimately successful and and Owen Vassallo always trained well and set the rewarding season in 2015/16. The year started with some right tone for others to follow. Ewan Lydiatt was the U13A U13B tough encounters against strong opposition. A combination undoubted player of the season and if he continues to of lack of form, bad luck and injury resulted in the first 7 progress at his current rate he will be a tremendous player Saturday fixtures ending in defeat, however the team was for the 1st XV in a couple of seasons. A fearsome making consistent improvement throughout this period. Shining ball-carrier, tackler and playmaker at number eight, Ewan lights in the team included Archie O’Dair and Will Dexter who complimented the industry of his teammates in the pack were outstanding in defence, alongside Will Elliott and Andre very effectively. Forwards Joe Houston, David Mahdi, Robson who were our most impressive attacking threats. The Maximus Kelf-Vermeulen, Matt Chapman, Conor Dougall, Natwest Cup proved to be the spark which ignited the team’s Owen Vassallo, Nick Marsden, Max Wainwright, Phil season with an impressive victory over Dame Allans, who Greenbank and Jack March all played important roles we had previously been defeated by earlier in the season. throughout the season.

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I would just like to thank the catering and ground staff that During the half term break, we played Northumberland County of boys and the results both individually and collectively as a made the cricket season possible and enjoyable for all the and recorded another pleasing victory. Batting first, we scored team have been brilliant . We look forward to seeing most of Cricket boys. Also a special thank you again to Maurice Bell and 202-8 (J Bushnell 90 not out) and bowled Northumberland out this team play 1st XI cricket in the future. Mike Hirsch for all their support over the season. for 154 (T Bell taking 4 wickets). Awards: Batting: Jonny Bushnell, Bowling: Robbie Fyfe, 2017 is going be exciting with the cricket tour to Sri Lanka and Over the course of the season, we played a number of 20/20 Fielding: Leo Giacomelli watching the boys play on much improved wickets after major games which we won comfortably. One of these was the renovations over the summer including the relaying of three County Cup final against Durham Johnston School. Mr M. Fishwick new pitches. Sol Bell performed very well in our game against Bradford Under 13 Cricket The awards for the season: Mike Hirsch award for the Grammar School. He was the difference between the two The U13 cricket team have again developed and outstanding 1st XI cricket: Luke Henderson. Maurice Bell sides, scoring 108 not out and taking 5 wickets! improved over the season. Not all of the results went their award for most improved player: Josh O’Brien. Batting: way but they played some excellent cricket and the whole Josh O’Brien Bowling: Luke Henderson Fielding: Will Gray. Our quarter final of the Lord Taverners was against Trent team enjoying playing and training hard to improve their College. We bowled first and bowled well; Trent all out for technical skills . Mr M. Fishwick. 101. With the bat, we looked comfortable and found ourselves at 72-2. A dramatic collapse then ensued which Thomas Reynolds captained the team and was the Under 15 Cricket saw us go to 86-8!! Fortunately we held on and Tommy outstanding batsman again, scoring heavily throughout the The U15s enjoyed a busy and successful cricket season. Bell hit the winning runs. A great win, which took us in to season.Sam Brown , Isaiah Jones , Tye Burke performed well, the semi finals! along with the rest of the team who are all technically better As has often been the case, the start of the season was players after playing plenty of cricket over the term. weather affected, with the first couple of games being The excitement was short-lived as we had a narrow loss to Both Mike Hirsch and myself look forward to seeing them called off due to the rain. Neverthless, the season got Sedbergh the following day. Sam North, nearly took us over all continue to develop as cricketers. Senior Cricket underway with a good performance against RGS Newcastle. the line with a quick fire 50, but unfortunately this wasn’t to The 2016 first XI Cricket Season has been one of the most A number of boys were unavailable for this game as be enough. Awards: Batting: Thomas Reynolds, Bowling: Sam Brown, successful in recent years. A young side with only two they were away with Duke of Edinburgh. Having picked Fielding: Isaiah Jones leavers in Captain Luke Henderson and Charlie Scott, the a number of U14 B team players in the side, it was great Arguably one of the best achievements to recent date, was team only lost one fixture against schoolboy opposition in to see us bowl RGS out for 51 and get the runs for one the fact that the U15 team reached the semi-finals of the Mr M. Fishwick. the longer format. wicket down! National Lord Taverners competition, placing them in the top 4 teams in the country. For this match we made the long Under 12 Cricket We had excellent wins against Barnard Castle, St Peter’s, Our next fixture was, again, against RGS Newcastle, but this journey south to Solihull School. We started well, and The U12 cricket season was again very enjoyable. It is very Ashville College, Bradford , Leeds Grammar and The Perse. time in the Lord Taverners competition. Durham scored 139 managed to bowl them out for 166. An equally impressive exciting for all of the coaches to watch these young boys start We had two draws against RGS, Newcastle and Ampleforth. and bowled RGS out for 108 (J Bushnell 4 wickets). start was made with the bat, however the pressure of the their cricket career at Durham School. occasion seemed to get to the boys and we had a dramatic Our loss was away against Sedbergh. In the National T20 A convincing win against Ashville College the following collapse, gifting Solihull School a place in the final. Unfortunately the team missed over half their games due to competition we qualified for Northern Finals days, beating Saturday (J Pears 53 and J Heydon 55), and then another the the weather but they tried hard and improved in what is RGS Newcastle and Barnard Castle but came up short in the good win against NSB, meant we had won our first four This has been a tremendously successful season for the now a strong and extensive fixture list playing most Thursdays semi Final against Worksop College. games of the season. U15 team and I would like to thank them for their efforts. and Saturdays. They are a talented group of players who, if they work hard, The squad of players that we had to choose a cricket team Luke Henderson captained the team and lead from the Our winning streak came to an end against a good Durham could play cricket to a very high level. I would like to take from this year was very small and inexperienced but some front with some outstanding performances. Josh O’Brien County side. We managed to put ourselves in to a winning this opportunity to thank Sol Bell and Jonny Pears, who both talented cricketers did emerge over the season. was the outstanding batsman and Luke Henderson scored a position, however a flurry of wickets, while we were trying to captained the side superbly. Well done to all involved! hundred against Ampleforth, Cameron Fyfe and Dom Scott chase down 141, resulted in a build up of pressure and we Jai Richardson captained the team and shows real potential. both scored 50s during the season .Luke Henderson was the were bowled out for 89. Given the start we had made to the Mr P. Dias Mathew Nichol has a lot of natural talent. Richard Troughear leading wicket taker, Dom Scott was the leading spin bowler, season, this was a disappointing result. was the real surprise package, taking up the wicket keeping Jonty Megginson, Louis Dinsdale and Nathan Bushnell also Under 14 Cricket and being the leading run scorer in the team. performed well with the ball. To their credit, the boys bounced back and beat St Peter’s The U14 Cricket team had a brilliant season, going York in close 35 over game. Bowling first, we restricted St undefeated against school opposition, beating Sedbergh, The team did not win many games but they all really enjoyed Our fielding was excellent all season and Will Gray the Peter’s to 111 (R Hall and C Heron both taking 3 wickets). St Peter’s, Bradford , Ashville , RGS , Leeds and Barnard playing. The highlight for the team was a brilliant win in the Wicket Keeper performed well behind the stumps Cricket Will Elliott hit the winning runs with Durham being 8 Castle. The fixture against Durham County was the only game last game of the season against St Martins, Ampleforth. All the at Durham continues to develop with most of this team wickets down. they lost. Jonny Bushnell captained the team and had an boys improved over the season and with continued hard work returning next season. outstanding season. Robbie Fyfe , Leo Giacomelli were in the over the winter I look forward to seeing them develop even The next round of the Lord’s Taverners competition was played County squad and performed well. The team also had a lot further next year. With 2nd XI cricketers performing along with our talented against Altrincham School. In difficult conditions, Durham of depth in Niall Butler wk batsman, Jenson Hibbitts off spin U15s , the step up to 1st XI cricket next season means scored 152-5 (J Bushnell 48). An impressive bowling display bowler and Tom Dexter opening bowler. Awards: Batting: Richard Troughear, Bowling: Mathew Nicol, the stocks of young players is good. Hard work over the then ensued as we bowled them out for 49 (S North 4 wickets). Fielding: Jay Richardson winter months will be required to force their way into the This was a great win, which put us in to the last 8 teams in The whole team worked hard and really improved over the the first XI next season. the country! season. Mike Hirsch has again worked tirelessly with this group Mr M. Fishwick

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Batting and Fielding - Durham School 1st XI Name Inninngs N.O. Total Runs Ave. Runs Strike Rate Faced 100s 50s H.S. Catches Stumpings Luke Henderson [c] 11 1 462 46.2 72.1 591 1 2 117 4 0 Dominic Scott 7 1 225 37.5 76.5 294 0 2 98 5 0 Josh O’Brien 12 2 524 52.4 59.5 775 0 5 89 2 0 Cameron Fyfe 8 2 236 39.3 48.9 483 0 1 60 2 0 Louis Dinsdale 3 2 21 21.0 91.3 23 0 0 16 2 0 Charlie Scott 6 3 117 39.0 77.9 149 0 1 53 3 0 Nathan Bushnell 3 0 76 25.3 90.4 52 0 0 29 0 0 William Jewitt 8 5 120 40.0 50.0 172 0 0 34 4 0 Jonty Megginson 2 0 8 4.0 66.7 12 0 0 5 3 0 Sol Bell 2 1 32 32.0 46.4 69 0 0 25 0 0 William Gray [w] 2 2 3 3.0 75.0 4 0 0 3 4 5 Jonathan Bushnell 1 1 41 41.0 73.2 56 0 0 41 1 0 Rupesh Barode 5 0 72 14.4 58.2 122 0 0 43 1 0 Loyd Horner 5 0 30 6.0 48.4 62 0 0 17 1 0 Lewis Carney 4 2 10 5.0 58.3 12 0 0 6 0 0 Sam North 1 0 8 8.0 0.0 0 0 0 8 0 0 Prajwal Pansare 1 0 1 1.0 0.0 0 0 0 1 1 0 Jonathan Pears 1 0 62 62.0 0.0 0 1 0 62 0 0

Bowling - Durham School 1st XI Name Inninngs Balls Maidens Wickets Ave. Wickets Total Runs Bowling Ave. Strike Rate Economy 5 WI B BI Luke Henderson [c] 11 504 15 26 2.4 295 11.3 58.5 3.2 2 6-71 Swimming Dominic Scott 8 407 10 16 2.0 284 17.8 69.8 3.8 0 3-5 Josh O’Brien 7 139 4 2 0.3 170 85.0 122.3 6.1 0 1-15 Cameron Fyfe 4 60 1 2 0.5 66 33.0 110.0 5.3 0 2-24 The swimming season of 2016 has been very successful for a solid victory, however it was not enough to claim the win as Louis Dinsdale 9 306 5 6 0.7 228 38.0 74.5 4.6 0 2-24 both our senior and junior teams. Our first fixture was against School House brought the trophy home again with outstandingly Charlie Scott 0 0 0 0 0.0 0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0 0-0 archrivals Sedbergh, where the junior team won by a comfortable quick races in the intermediates and seniors. Poole House gave a Nathan Bushnell 6 180 1 7 1.2 179 25.6 99.4 6.0 0 4-35 margin thanks to impressive performances by Miguel Queiruga great attempt at the relays but it was too little too late and wasn’t William Jewitt 1 6 0 1 1.0 15 15.0 250.0 19.0 0 1-0 and Alex Mitchelson. The senior team did enough to gain a draw enough to put them in the top spot. Jonty Megginson 9 307 3 9 1.0 247 27.4 80.5 4.4 0 3-15 (despite early season fitness issues) which meant a sound victory Sol Bell 2 41 0 1 0.5 36 36.0 87.8 2.5 0 1-8 for Durham overall. The team then managed to hold on to an The season culminated with the four fastest boys and girls in undefeated streak against an experienced Ampleforth side. This the school travelling down to London to compete in a national William Gray [w] 0 0 0 0 0.0 0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0 0-0 time both the seniors and juniors had prolific wins, as Conor schools tournament where 60 schools and colleges across the Jonathan Bushnell 0 0 0 1 0.0 0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0 1-0 Dougall and Jai Richardson had very quick swims to seal what country sent their best swimmers to compete. The girls’ team Rupesh Barode 5 168 2 7 1.4 153 21.9 91.1 7.8 0 3-26 was a comfortable victory. In the seniors, Alex Sablin and Iain captained by Lucy Kirk, was comprised of Emma Wilmot, Emma Loyd Horner 0 0 1 0 0.0 0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0 0-0 Choyce quickly solidified their places in the team with fast swims in Reed and Kari Dougall. As the standard in this Gala was Lewis Carney 1 92 0 6 6.0 96 16.0 104.3 31.0 0 4-13 their respective strokes to put valuable points on the leaderboard. extremely high, the girls had to put in their best performances of Sam North 2 66 6 0 0.0 14 0.0 21.2 1.5 0 0-10 the season to gain a good result. Unfortunately their efforts were Prajwal Pansare 1 18 2 1 1.0 1 1.0 5.6 0.0 0 1-1 The girls’ team this year had a solo tournament against Barnard not enough to give them a place on the podium, but they gained Jonathan Pears 0 0 0 0 0.0 0 1.0 0.0 0.0 0 0-0 Castle, Queen Mary’s and Sedbergh where the seniors won, valuable experience competing at such a high level. The boys’ aided by an impressive swim by Emma Willmott who annihilated team captained by Rory Jackson, was built up of Gabe Lewis, the field in her butterfly race. However, the juniors had a very Liam Leung and Conor Dougall. Again, as competition for the Records tough start and narrowly lost the top spot by the closest of top places was extremely fierce, the team’s medley and freestyle Highest Score (Season) Most Runs (Career) Highest Average Best Strike Rate (batting) Most 100s Most 50s margins meaning that our overall score was second place. relays were just not quite up to scratch in order to compete with the best. Although the split times showed if we had had more L. Henderson - 177 J. O’Brien - 524 J. O’Brien - 52.4 L. Dinsdale - 91.3 L.Henderson - 1 J.O’Brien - 5 The inter-House swimming competition is widely regarded as time to train as a team, we could have had a side that would Best Bowling (Season) Most Wickets (Career) Best Average Best Strike Rate (bowling) Max Balls Bowled Most 5WIs the most competitive and serious event in the school calendar, have challenged the likes of Whitgift and Harrow for the top spot. name number - (for) number L. Henderson - 26 L. Henderson - 2.3 L. Henderson - 58.5 L. Henderson - 78 L. Henderson - 2 with all five houses eager to take back the trophy. Out of Pimlico For both of our teams, fitness was a huge difficulty, as a 100m and Macleod there was a clear difference in ability leading to a sprint was much more challenging than expected. For aspiring Total Runs Overall Average Overall Strike Rate Total 100s Total 50s comfortable Macleod win despite the strong efforts of the Pimlico athletes wishing to join the swimming team next year, get a good 2048 170.7 71.2 1 11 girls. The results demonstrate Macleod’s dominance as they took level of sprint fitness and speak to the God that is Mr Colin Total Wickets Overall Average Overall Strike Rate Total Balls Bowled Total 5WIs the win in the juniors, intermediates and seniors races. In the Fordyce, he will sort you out. 85 7.1 77.8 2294 2 boys houses competition was at a high with all houses showing a good range of talent. In the juniors’ race Caffinites pulled off Rory Jackson and Lucy Kirk

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Duke of Edinburgh Award A whopping seven expeditions took place this academic year allowing around sixty students to complete this part of their Duke of Edinburgh Award.

The Bronze award continues to attract bumper numbers, and new equipment has even needed to be purchased to accommodate the crowds. Their assessed expedition in the High Pennines proved to be a rather soggy one, but I was delighted to see that the training that was delivered over the year proved worthwhile and the majority of students finished with a sense of elation after forty eight hours of expeditions. Lost tents in rivers and missing groups on the hills all proved to be minor distractions in what was a very enjoyable weekend.

The Silver award saw pupils complete a practice expedition around Kielder Water in October and in hindsight this was possibly not the best of ideas by the groups. A combination of freezing conditions and snow falling higher up meant that the practice was extremely hard work. The groups benefitted greatly however by having a proper test during the practice – they could see just how bad an idea it is to waterproof your sleeping bag with a bin liner (or not at all) and that a boot left outside overnight will certainly be soaking in the morning!

A delayed silver assessed expedition across the North York Moors meant that summer was cut short for those pupils wishing to complete their silver award! The route is always tough and many found that their relaxed approach to actually walking meant that the days began to drag. Fortunately the troubles of the first day were brushed off after a good night’s sleep and both the boys’ and girls’ groups were working very well on day two of the expedition. Unfortunately pupils on the expedition continued to have bad luck with the weather and so Goathland was not a pleasant place to be at the start of September – it rained for most of the day and night. On the Sunday morning however, spirits were very high as the end was in sight and pupils could smell the fish and chips awaiting them at Robin Hood’s Bay! The groups Gold Award Expedition, Morocco eventually finished on the beach, just as the sun finally came out, Our DofE trek to Morocco was one that I would recommend and were delighted to have finished what was another difficult to anyone, not just because its hot and you’re pretty much expedition! Some even want to come back for more next year! guaranteed better weather than in England, but because the experience you get from it and the skills you also gain from it Co-Curricular This year Gold award students were offered two options for are second to none. Co-Curricular is the term we use at This year, over 80 weekly activities were regularly delivered their assessed expedition – either an expedition across the Durham School to encompass the huge including a variety of musical ensembles, drama, CCF, Duke of Lake District from Coniston to Keswick, or a summer holiday After a long minibus drive down to Manchester airport and then Edinburgh Awards, Swim club, Ceramics club, Mindfulness and expedition in the High Atlas mountains of Morocco. The Lake what seemed like a life time both on the plane and stuck in amount of activities, clubs, trips, societies Meditation, debating and reading circle to name but a few. We District expedition gives great scenery and the option to wild security, filling in papers and exchanging currency in Marrakesh and learning that are delivered alongside offered numerous educational visits ranging from Theatre Trips to camp, which many students enjoyed and was once again a great airport. We finally got out on another minibus towards our Riad our academic curriculum; importantly they the Rugby Tour to the USA and Canada, and throughout this year, opportunity to work with other students from Fyling Hall School and the centre of Marrakesh. Due to a fairly late flight and enhance and support learning as well as we have had a Reading Week, Science Week and Mental Health which was great fun. Gold award students always amaze me added delays we got into the centre of Marrakesh to actually eat Awareness Week. The academic year culminated in Olympics with their ability to complete this expedition, which is incredibly something (little did we know that this kebab and kebab shop developing vital skills for life. This enables Week in which all pupils engaged in and enjoyed activities hard work – to carry all your equipment and food for four days was going to be the beloved staple food while we were in the all our pupils to become confident, well designed to challenge, enjoy and facilitate good team work across high mountains and through deep valleys is no mean centre of Marrakesh). It was very late at night through to the early rounded, experienced young people who and leadership. Well done to all pupils who have taken part in feat and to do it with a smile on your face (most of the time) is hours of the next morning local time. To all of our surprise the activities, trips, productions, concerts and sporting fixtures this year very impressive. Students completed a memorable expedition centre was still buzzing with life with stalls being set out and a lot are ready and well equipped to tackle the and a huge thank-you to all our staff who willingly give of their with their arrival at Keswick Pencil Museum and had certainly of vendors and locals still up and about. challenges that face them in the future. time to offer such a tremendous range of opportunities. deserved their sleep all the way home! On the second day it was a reasonably early start to get a Mr P. Sturt traditional Moroccan breakfast of pancakes, syrup, cream and

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mountain pass. On that day we walked all the way from Imsker heartbeat. When we were back in Marrakesh we had a day to Tizi Oussem. Along the way we did see things such as goats to wander around in the souks and the centre of the city. This that could climb trees and we all experienced heat that many was also good fun as we got to experience a different side of of us had never felt before. This was easily the hardest day and Moroccan culture that you don’t see in the mountains. the most challenging but it was certainly the day that I learnt the most from and a day I will never forget. That evening we into the On the last day after the final sleep in the Riad and in morocco campsite and again went through we packed up all our thing in preparation to leave. Due to the Moroccan tea on the roof top tables on the top of our Riad and got to wash and swim in a little stream and pool just down the similar routine. After a short but very heavy storm we were flight being very late in the evening, during the day we got to (our Riad was on a side street right out from the main street the hill from our campsite and there we met some young local at the camp with a group of people doing world challenge, spend our time in a hotel on the roof top pool in the heat and in Marrakesh, and at 0830 it was already hot!). Later that boys we spoke to. they offered us a game of volleyball on a homemade court with sun which was also very nice and a good relaxing day to end morning we packed up our things and all our expedition gear in two ropes and some trees. A few from the our exped including the overall trip. preparation to go out to the mountains for our “acclimatisation myself, the staff and guides all played volleyball. day”. Upon getting to Imlil in the High Atlas Mountains and “I recommend this to anyone who has the It was great fun. DofE Gold expedition in Morocco has changed me for the going up the road to out camp site for the first night, we chance as it is a brilliant opportunity to bond, better and I have learnt so many things that I definitely wouldn’t were taught a few basic things that you need to know in the On day 4 of the DofE expedition (the last day of the exped) we have done if I had not have done it or even if I had done it in mountains and in Morocco such as depositing of waste, filtering further skills such as leadership and navigation walked from Tizi Oussem up another pass, back into the Valley England. I recommend this to anyone who has the chance as it water, hand sanitisation and cooking. We then collected all the but also mature and become someone you of Imlil and to the finish (the campsite we stayed on the night is a brilliant opportunity to bond, further skills such as leadership food and equipment such as fuel, stoves and tents we would never thought you could be.” of the induction day). Though it looked like a short day on the and navigation but also mature and become someone you need for the exped. After all this in the afternoon we then went map the climb up to the top was anything but short. However never thought you could be. I have loved doing my DofE Gold on a small walk around the Valley of Imlil with our packs just to once at the top of the pass the view was amazing and the decent and I loved my time out in Morocco and I will never forget it! get a feel for the terrain and the conditions we would be doing On day 3 of the trip and day 2 of the expedition after Alex Jones into Imlil really made the day and the trip. The views were the expedition in. When we got back to the camp site on the sunglasses scare and after breakfast we left to walk all the way spectacular and let’s just say everyone was glad that it was close Alasdair Richardson last night before the expedition we were fully catered for with up into the centre of Tizi n’Tacheddirt, to then follow the route to the finish. Once down into Imlil and a short walk/fun running traditional Moroccan and Berber food and Berber whisky all the way through the valley we were in all the way up through race (that I won) up to the campsite. Then began the arduous (just tea!). Arg and Amssakrou to the camp site at Imsker and El Bour. This task of unloading, cleaning and squaring everything away day was by far one of the hardest days of the whole expedition before we could officially end the expedition. Thankfully Alex The next day was officially the first day of the expedition not just because of the terrane but because of the heat as well. Jones and I were used to this process and know the standards however we did get a full breakfast cooked for us by the full As we got to the campsite and got set up, again we had the pretty well so our group were done in no time, unfortunately the expedition team (they were great!). After this we packed up chance to wash and freshen up in the nearby stream which was other group were not so lucky. That evening it was so nice to out things, got hold of the radios (that was my job mainly) and an absolute gift. Again it was a similar routine with dinner and be off of the tuna, noodles and soup diet and eating something the maps which we took it in turns to use. On the first day of then sleep, however unfortunately for me that night in the dark different, for me even a bit of proper pasta and bits of salad was the exped we climbed out of Imlil Valley and then descended I managed to stub my toe on a large steel peg in the ground really nice. towards Tacheddirt. It was easily the simplest days of the whole resulting in the loss of my toenail, unfortunate but it wasn’t a expeditions. Getting to the camp site at around mid-day we set problem and I carried on. The next day we woke up to be of the expedition and to be up camp and started doing food (lunch everyday was tomato eating a proper breakfast and packing up ready to leave to go tuna, bread and crisps. Tea was noodles and soup and Day 3 of our DofE exped was a very early start as we had to get back to Marrakesh. Our guides Abdul and Mostapha and the breakfast was porridge and cereal). After all the other group that day done as quick as possible due to the fact of it being cook Muhammed really helped make the week as memorable had arrived an hour or so after us we chilled out all afternoon arguably the longest and the hottest days going over a very high as it was and to be honest I’d go back and do the same in a

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CCF - Army Section Navigation and Command Tasks were all on the agenda this CCAT Caving couple of days before. Then in Valley Entrance we followed it As Contingent Commander of Durham School CCF I year and although the cadets didn’t come in the top 3 of After my CCAT caving course I think that CCAT is amazing. all the way through until we got to a 8 meter high escarpment would welcome you to read the various articles detailing schools attending, they certainly enjoyed themselves and Apart from meeting new people and making new friends, CCAT with a stream flowing through the bottom of it because Valley the activities of the two sections – Army and Royal Navy – showed that at least some of the topics covered on a Thursday inspires you and teaches you so many things that you often don’t Entrance is a part of Kingsdale Master Cave which is an active over the past twelve months, however before doing so, I night had sunk in! learn without opportunities such as CCAT and for such a low cave system. We then traversed this escarpment which is one of would like to take this opportunity to thank Mr Richard price it is well worth the money! if not the longest traverses in the country and I and a few others Hewitt for his dedicated service to the CCF over the past Weekend exercises continued to appear in the diary, and the helped those that struggled through that (about 100 meters). three decades! Mr Hewitt has run the RN section at Durham Banetal enemy forces were repelled from the area of Durham After the first day of arrival and of settling, that evening we had After this we explored the master cave more, with more squeezes School for nearly as long as I have been alive, and his School repeatedly, thanks to the skill and military tactics adopted dinner a lecture and brief after that was done we got to relax and then the same traverse and a bit more navigation back to retirement signals the end of an era of sailing which has by 1 Durham School Rifles! The enemy forces had certainly and socialise around Halton camp and in the billets that were the surface out of Valley Entrance. provided countless pupils with the opportunity to either just had to up their game this year, with observation posts, tactical shared for all the boys on the CCAT courses at that time. give sailing a go, or in many cases to excel under his patrolling and ambushes all being used by Friendly Forces to On the fourth day we explored Brow Gill and Calf Holes. command. You will see from his article that yet more repel the enemy from school grounds! The next day we picked up all our kit we needed for the week To get to the Brow Gill cave system you have to abseil down competitions have been won, more students have been from the stores (great quality kit!) then we met our instructors. Calf Holes (a big pot hole with a waterfall flowing down it). successful in developing their skills and the RN section has The end of the summer term saw the annual summer camp, this My two instructors were absolute legends and were really down Once in the Brow Gill cave system we then started walking once again proved that however small it is, it is very time at Wathgill Camp in Catterick Garrison and once again it to earth and friendly. After we met we discussed where we were deeper and deeper following a stream down until eventually worthwhile and does exactly what it is supposed to do – proved to be huge success. The annual camp gives cadets the going to go and what the weather was doing as well as doing it turned into a crawl and then the infamous letter box crawl give young people an insight into life in the armed forces. opportunity to try out the skills they have gained over the year a group risk assessment. The night before there had been some which pretty much does what it says on the tin, a very tight crawl in much more realistic conditions, with much greater support pretty severe rain that had flooded a lot of caves fully and a just like the cheese press but over fairly jagged rocks and a I wish Richard a relaxing retirement and hope that his wetsuit from the real Army and not just Mr Sturt and Mr Atkinson telling lot of them including show caves were not accessible at all. few boulders and at the end a 1.5 meter drop off onto a pile boots can be filled by another willing member of staff who will them what to do! The six day camp offers live firing, advanced Still we went out to view the effects of the rain. First we went of boulders, (again it was tough but so much fun). After that be able to develop the section either as a continuation of the tactics, adventurous training and a twenty four hour exercise and to Yordas (all the caves we went into and visited were in the we started to get further back to the bottom of the cave where current format, or in a new direction. The CCF is in a good this year finished off with a day at the largest outdoor obstacle Yorkshire dales). After seeing that that was completely flooded we then re-joined the stream and climbed up a 6 meter rock position within the school environment and certainly provides course in the north! Needless to say, the cadets came away (a 20-meter-high chamber was full to the brim) we then decided face up a water fall. After that we had pairs and I navigated pupils with opportunity to try things not on offer anywhere else from the camp very tired, but very satisfied with what they had to go to the second cave of the day Valley Entrance. At Valley my pair out of the cave and back to the bottom of Calf Holes on the curriculum – long may it continue. achieved during the week Entrance we had an intro to caving through lots and lots of where we used the caving ladder (a aluminium flexible almost water, having to stop and turn back do to the active cave being rope ladder. Back up 15-20 to the surface and I got to carry the This year has seen a wide variety of activities take place in the Normally this would signal the end of the activities for cadets, flooded. Plus we got to experience what true darkness is which 10kg climbing bag with all the kit in up with me which was a Army section of the CCF. With numbers growing in the Army however this year Cdt Sgt Alasdair Richardson took it upon was pretty cool! challenge to say the least! section, it has been great to see how those junior cadets from himself to arrange a week at an army funded caving course in last year have begun to take on more leadership and command the Lake District. The Combined Cadet Adventurous Training On the second day we went to the Longchurn Cave System Finally, on the last day (day five) we had a half day due to in the section and are able to show those new to the CCF how organisation provides cadets and adult volunteers with the and Wilsons cave doing a full cave exploration including a travel so we went and explored Great Douk. Just a short things are done. opportunity to gained Adventurous Training qualifications at a 25 – 30cm ish size squeeze (the cheese press) and other parts exploration straight through the cave system emerging out fraction of the cost (literally £40.00 for the whole week!) and it where you were pretty much swimming through the tight area of at a limestone pavement just like Mr Wilsons cave, We have benefitted from regular training provided by Sgt Jay is great to see that finally some cadets are getting involved with a bedding plane. As well as this we walked up a near vertical including crawls through tight spaces and very cold water, Turnbull from 4 Brigade Cadet Training Team and his light- this great opportunity! water flow (Dr Bannisters hand basin (great fun)). thin small passageways and a crawl through a SSSI (sight hearted but knowledgeable methods of teaching have certainly of special scientific interest (which was beautiful)). Ending kept the cadets entertained. With the new academic year upon us, I only hope that more new Then on the third day we went back to Yordas and Valley up with a lateral squeeze through limestone and some fairly cadets join the organisation and allow themselves to be pushed Entrance to see how far we could get through. In Yordas we large cave spider nests, (one of the largest spider species in As with previous years, the first date in the cadet calendar in ways they never thought they would do – the opportunity is managed to get in and have a look around and even go to the the UK). was Exercise Black Rat Cadet Challenge in October, a there, they just have to take it! site where people are actively digging to try and find other ways competition held at Catterick which looks to challenge cadets out or caves. Yordas is where most of my photos are from and That was a short summary of my week on the Basic Caving in all aspects of their syllabus. First Aid, Weapon Handling, Mr P. Sturt you can see a few resurgences and other effects of the water a Course through CCAT. I could easily write a lot more about

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it but tried to include as many of the key details and most I believe mine has and you gain an experience and a memorable moments as I could. In the course everyone qualification not many others certainly that I know will not be had ample opportunities to navigate the group further in able to have. Because of this course I have picked up a new the cave or out of the cave which I took on many occasions hobby in caving and I hope to advance in the field, learn new and spent most of the time leading the group which was a skills and continue caving for as long as I can. good experience and one that I have learnt some important lessons from. P.S. most of the pictures included on this document are taken in the main chamber of Yordas under the lighting of the I love adventure training and CCAT is the perfect opportunity to groups headlamps. do it for a very low price. As well as improving your social skills and making new friends as I did, your leadership improves as Alasdair Richardson

Summer Camp 2016 soldiers of the Yorkshire Regiment. The exercise was a great On the afternoon of Speech day, it wasn’t the time for the antics end to the year’s training including the use of observation of the summer holidays for the CCF who travelled down to posts, patrols and sections attacks in alignment with The Wathgill Camp, Catterick Garrison for their annual Summer Reed School. Camp. A week full of exciting activities for the cadets to take part in ranging from adventurous training to a live range day. The The week had many highlights including the narrow loss week lived up to the usual expectations even if numbers were to Barnard Castle’s CCF in the evening football match slightly depleted by the rugby tour. taken very seriously by both teams. However, their squad of 26 to our 10 was rather hard to match especially with The first day was adventurous training for the cadets with training the 3 match officials being of Barney origin provoking some in kayaking, raft building and climbing. Then, on day two, we questionable decisions and motives. With all of this in mind, took to the ranges of North Yorkshire and were firing full bore still, Durham were sporting and the loss has not left a bitter Sa80 GP rifles (semi-automatic) and the fully automatic LSW taste in any of our mouths. (Apart from the horrible foul (light support weapon) on the range at both 100 and 200 on our own Sgt Jones mid game left un-penalised, the metres. This day is always a particular favourite on the camp obvious corner in the 75th minute and their continued use and this year was no exception going through hundreds of of substitutes…) rounds as a school. It is hard not to finish without mention of Major Sturt and Moving into the mid-week, the CCF enjoyed days of leadership, WO2 Atkinson for taking us on yet another brilliant, action orienteering and advanced tactics all taught by serving soldiers packed week and we are all grateful for not only their role mainly from the Yorkshire Regiment or Cadet training team. in the week away, but also their training throughout the year These festivities proved very useful for the overnight exercise at to get us up to standard for the various competitions and camps the end of the week on the vast but somewhat boggy grounds through the year. Our thanks go to them for the time they have of Catterick training area which we shared with the regular given up.

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on board using nets in Lyme Bay, on another we arrived by helicopter with Invincible growing from a tiny dot to a mammoth floating airfield as we approached. The highlight of our visits though was the trip from Gibraltar back to Pompey.

The Navy taught me how to sail and windsurf, indeed at one time Durham School was the only RYA recognised windsurfing school in the country! I hope that I have passed on some of what the Navy taught me to the cadets in my charge. From time to time I meet some of my cadets and I am always pleased to hear CCF - Royal Navy Section More recently Michael Goldsmith OD (1992-96) has been in that many remember their time in the RN section with fondness September 2015 saw a group of new cadets joining the section touch. He is now a submariner and warrant officer. Unfortunately and that some are still sailing! some of whom had arrived from other schools and already had we were unable to arrange a visit, but wish both Michael and sailing skills. This gave our existing sailors a boost and boded Josh all the best for their future naval careers. Although I am retiring from teaching at Durham School and well for the upcoming Northern and National regattas. from the school CCF, I intend to continue in the CCF at a We had two weeks to prepare and set about training with gusto. The summer term 2016 saw the resumption of our on the water national level, and hopefully will be instructing dinghy sailing So it was with great optimism that we headed off to Southport activities and the arrival of new cadets from Year 8. Michael at Plymouth and Southport for a few more years. In between with a strong team, and even a reserve. Our optimism was Toner, Cameron Regan-Teasdale and Alexander Carr took Navy work I hope to have more time to sail and race my own rewarded with a large haul of trophies. William Hewitt and immediate advantage of what the Navy offer and signed up for dinghy, and possibly even race the remote control yacht that Leezum Lepcha sailing the Bosun won all their races and took a week of sailing on a RYA course at Southport during the half was presented to me on my retirement! I wish Durham School the Bosun Cup for the fourth year in a row. Adam Morris term holiday. They had a great week sailing Argos and Qubas CCF and all cadets past and present well for the future. fought a good battle with his opposite number from Sedbergh and came away with their RYA Level 2 certificates. and came away with the Topper Trophy and Edward Carr was Lt R. Hewitt RNR (CCF) just pipped at the post for the Pico trophy, ultimately finishing A few weeks later the same cadets were back at Southport for second. When the results were combined Durham won the the National 12 Hour Race. Without two of our best sailors trophy for the best North East Area school and the overall who were exam tied this was always going to be a tough Ski Trip Northern Regatta trophy as well. challenge, but our young team ably led by Edward Carr did The first week of the Easter Holidays saw 26 pupils and 3 staff Despite tired legs and sore bodies we managed to get well to finish 21st out of the 24 teams. They had a good day embark on the Durham School Ski trip to Serre Chevalier. After a involved in some enjoyable activities each evening. With the Northern Regatta under our belt we were looking and unlike many teams avoided capsizing in the squalls that very long bus journey and numerous stops at some of the ‘nicer’ Bowling, swimming, ice-skating and the local discothèque forward to competing in the National Regatta at Portsmouth hit unexpectedly at times. French service stations, we arrived at our authentic French hotel. were all well received, although some of the groups dance and potentially improving on our runner up position from the Here, the kids were able to sample some unique French cuisine moves do need some serious work! Zara Alexander wasn’t previous year. We were to be disappointed though as a high Due to a lack of accommodation in September the Northern and put all the learning from their French lessons in to practise able to demonstrate her alleged dancing prowess as she pressure settled over the country and a totally windless forecast Regatta for 2016 was brought forward to the day after the 12 when talking to Albert, the hotel manager. managed to lock herself in the toilet for the majority of meant that the event was cancelled before we even left Durham. Hour Race so the same team was also able to compete in that. the evening! Edward Carr battled neck and neck with his opposite number With a whole range of skiing abilities on the trip it was great to Our attention then turned to the Bi-ennial Inspection. A range from Sedbergh but just missed out on winning the Quba Trophy have some excellent ski instructors (including Mr Mason) who Credit must also go to the minority of the group of practical leadership tasks were set up involving crossing rivers when the finishing positions in the discounted race were taken were able to help everyone on the trip really improve their skiing. (which excluded Mr Dias) who managed to fight off or of ‘shark infested custard’, and recovering ‘radio-active’ flasks into account. Most of the days saw blue sky and fresh snow which provided avoid the ‘super bug’ which wiped out the majority of from islands also surrounded by more’ shark infested custard’. a fantastic environment for everyone to ski. The end of each people for 24 hours over the course of the week. The inspecting officer was duly impressed by the enthusiasm This is the last report of the year that I will write for the RN day did see some of the snow melt, which contributed to some An incredibly enjoyable and successful trip was had by all. and ingenuity of our cadets, not just on the day but also in the Section as I move into retirement. I joined the section back in impressive falls! Everyone improved their skiing, which was great to see. number and variety of activities that our cadets were involved 1981 and served with Norman MacLeod. Field Days to the On behalf of the staff I would like to thank and congratulate in throughout the two years since the last inspection. Farne Islands with Billy Shiels and sailing at Scarborough make On the subject of falls, Sophie Atkinson and Nick Blowey all the pupils on their efforts, they were a pleasure to up my earliest memories of the section. They were great days, deserve the bravery awards for their trips to the local hospital to take away! As I have said before in these reports when the winter arrives but were tinged with sadness when following a memorable visit get stitched up. This will have been a tough, but valuable lesson the Navy section tends to retreat indoors and do the rather to HMS Sheffield and Cdr Mike Norman OD at Hull the ship for Nick on the dangers of skiing in to a bin! Mr P. Dias mundane theory and chartwork. The absence of any Year 9 sailed out to the Mediterranean (with Durham School plaque cadets meant that opportunities for the senior cadets to develop on board) and never returned to Britain. She was diverted to the instruction skills were limited but nonetheless personal skills Falklands where she was hit by a missile and later sank. Twenty and knowledge of maritime matters were developed. lives were lost and many severely injured. Mike Norman returned to school after the conflict and spoke movingly to the whole During this time we were fortunate to receive a visit from Josh school in chapel. Daniels OD who is now a serving Navy officer and who at the time had just returned from a circumnavigation of the Antarctic The RN Section has provided myself and many cadets with as navigating officer on board HMS Endurance. Josh delivered wonderful opportunities and experiences throughout my time a fascinating talk to the CCF on his time in the deep south, in the school. Yachting in the Firth of Clyde, fleet tenders along which included being stuck in the ice for some time, and a the south coast, passing out parades at BRNC and Royal Arthur bizarre way of freeing the ship by waggling a shipping container are some. HMS Invincible was for many years our affiliated from a crane! ship and provided sea time. On one occasion we scrambled

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Olympics Week Olympics Week has been a resounding success with all our pupils participating in a range of exciting and challenging activities and trips. All pupils also completed a first aid and resuscitation course and have received a certificate. Our highlight on Wednesday was a visit by Olympian Ross Murray who motivated and enthused our pupils with an insight into life as an elite athlete and he fielded some excellent questions posed by our pupils. Speedwatch As a School we value our good relationship with Durham Our Year 7s helped Inspector Parkin and CSI Brownlee solve a Constabulary and we work closely with local officers to ensure murder mystery, identified sporting drugs cheats in their science our School community are safe and educated against the workshop, enjoyed the Flying Theatre Company, participated dangers that face young people today. in a range of outdoor activities and prepared and delivered interesting presentations about the Olympics. Woodland One worry we all share is the busy road which runs through Warrior was a particular highlight for our Year 8s where mud our School site and whilst we endeavour to ensure our pupils was the name of the game. Most teams completed the mile cross the road correctly and safely at all times, this doesn’t course with 26 obstacles 4 times; needless to say they were stop a number of drivers driving far too fast along a little weary and very filthy afterwards. They also enjoyed the Quarryheads Lane. Our Year 7, 8 and 9 pupils have been outdoor activities, science and business workshops, the Flying Ben Smith 401 Challenge involved termly, with local officers and traffic Police to deliver Theatre and working in teams to prepare a bid for the UK to Durham School had the pleasure of hosting Ben Smith and his a Speedwatch Campaign which involves cars approaching host the 2024 Olympics. team during his 259th Marathon in Durham City. Ben is completing school in both directions, being checked using the laser to 401 marathons in 401 days, raising valuable funds monitor the speed of the vehicle. A visit to Exit and the Centre for Life on Monday was for Kidscape and Stonewall charities. really enjoyed by the Year 9s. At Exit, they had to work If the vehicle is driving dangerously, they are pulled over and in teams to find clues and develop strategies to get out Several of our Year 7 and 8 athletes accompanied Ben for part our pupils read them their rights and issue a Durham School of the situation they found themselves in including a dark of his run into Durham School where he was greeted by the whole Speeding ticket, explaining why it is so important to drive Attic and a city about to blow up! The week ended with a school who sang Happy Birthday and presented him with an carefully through School. Needless to say, most are hugely camping trip to Lightwater Valley where fun was had by all. amazing cake. Ben and his team joined us for a hearty Durham apologetic and shamed and hopefully pay more heed to their The Year 10s had their eyes opened to academia, School lunch, packed with carbohydrates (to contribute to the driving habits. This is an excellent opportunity for our pupils to University style. A chemistry trip to Newcastle University 6000 calories he needed every day). It was a pleasant surprise experience good citizenship and provides an insight into the and a Sports Science trip to Durham University challenged that Steve Cram and Ally Dixon, Rio Olympian and London work and role of a Police Officer. We were also proud of a our pupils thinking and learning skills as they carried out Marathon winner were running with Ben and also joined us group of our pupils who were involved in the training of high experiments in the Uni labs, using technical equipment not for lunch. At the time of writing, Ben still has 50 marathons to level officers from the Bahrain Police Department who were available in Schools. The Year 10s enjoyed a trip to the complete and we wish him well with the rest of his tough challenge. visiting Durham Constabulary, by showing them how young wBBC; our artists also produced excellent fruit and vegetable people can get involved in making their local community a scenes in their workshop and competitive fun was had by Mrs K. Rochester safer place to live and go to School. all orienteering.

Mrs K. Rochester Mrs K. Rochester

Marsden Speaking Competition Intermediate category: Scholars’ Quiz 2016 The final round of the Marsden Public Speaking Competition Archie O’Dair: Confidence for life 1. What word looks the same backwards and upside down? took place on Tuesday 22 March in the Exhibition Room, David Gardiner: 2. Draw a line. Without touching it, how do you make the adjudicated by the ex Orator of Durham University, Professor Coltan Mining in the Congo (W) Scholars’ Dinner line longer? J.R. Watson. Professor Watson was very impressed both by the Hal Burke: Arming the British police The annual Scholars’ Dinner took place on 23 March and as 3. What goes around the wood but never goes into the wood? variety of topics and the standard of presentation. Dominic Gaines: usual all the King’s and Burkitt Scholars in Year 11, 12 and 13 4. ippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia is the fear The speakers, topics and winners are listed below: Should killer whales be kept in captivity? attended. The guest speaker was Mr Philip Sanderson, Principal of of what? Kings Priory School, Tynemouth. This year the evening comprised 5. The Canary Islands were named after which animal? Junior category: Senior category: of a Heretics Society style debate after the meal and Mr Sanderson 6. Which animal is the national symbol of Scotland? James Green: Ed Arthur: Artificial intelligence (W) spoke on the menace of social media very persuasively, though 7. The sentence “May I have a large container of coffee?” Is the universe doughnut shaped? Dominic Scott: Is history a science? he could not convince a majority of those present to agree with is used as a memory aid for what? Hannah Watson: Bullying Nils Malmros: Germanic paganism him (perhaps unsurprisingly given the age range….), and was 8. Circle the number that is the odd one out: Thomas Reynolds: Lucky Alex Smith: therefore declared the dubious honour of becoming a Heretic! 8 27 64 128 Zoe Mansel: White lies The importance of language Each table also completed the customary and eagerly-awaited 9. In Papua New Guinea what is the leading cause of death? Maya Hood: A speech from space (W) Will Gray: The art of happiness. Scholars’ Quiz. Try it for yourself here! (Answers available from 10. Write the next word in this sequence: gun, shoe, spree, Mr Muttitt) door, hive...

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Following Amanda Petty leaving, the Society is grateful to Sue Langthorne and Debbie Stanford for pulling the Dinner together and making it such an enjoyable occasion.

As President, and personally, I am absolutely delighted Andrew Beales and Debbie Stanford have joined the staff as Development Director and Assistant Development Director respectively. I look forward to working with them both.

We have already set up and enjoyed good communications and between the OD Society, myself, Andrew and Debbie and the School. Exciting plans are already starting to evolve for the OD Society. The President’s Tenure ODs may or might not be aware that the President’s tenure Old Dunelmians is usually for five years and means I will need to have a successor in place before September 2018. Notwithstanding I live some 350 miles away, I come to the School both for Governors Meeting and functions as often as I can.

I am delighted that there are a couple of people, who have expressed an interest and are being considered, both have excellent credentials. I cannot say who they are, at this stage.

Are there any other nominations? Please feel free to nominate yourself, or others (whether they are aware or not!). Please do so by email to [email protected] Other Initiatives I am delighted to see the Headmaster has put together a series of informal OD Drinks events, which will take place in various parts of the UK, and abroad. These great informal gatherings are strongly supported by Annual London Old Dunelmian Dinner the OD Society. Friday 12 February 2016 This year the Annual London OD Dinner was held at The Naval 2017 and Military Club, (affectionately known as the ‘In and Out’ Our two Dinners next year are in London on Friday Club) on St. James’s Square, London. The Speaker was Paul 3 February 2017 and in Durham on Sat 9 September, Dickson (S, 1968-72), a contemporary of the President. 2017. Next year it will be 50 years since I came to Durham (from Bow) and I’m certainly planning to do The Dinner was well attended with 85 people, a good mix my best to get the largest number of those attending of new and old faces. Guests were brought up to date about both dinners, who were at School any time entering current developments at our School by the Headmaster. from 1965 to 1973, particularly. If you attended during The OD Society would like to thank Rod Hepple-Wilson this time, this may be your best ever opportunity to (S, 1968-73) for providing the facility of the Club. reacquaint your selves with old friends.

Annual Old Dunelmian Dinner Demand is likely to be high, so register your interest now. Saturday 10 September 2016 There is currently a bit of research to try and find lost ODs, The Dinner was held in Big School and well attended by well if you can help, please get in touch. over 100 people. It was particularly pleasing to see so many youngsters attending and regular groups are forming. Our In both cases please email [email protected] Speaker was Peter Bell (L, 1970 – 77) drafted in by the President at short notice. Peter was enormously witty (as always) and the Floreat Dunelmia event was extremely well enjoyed by all present Ritchie Salkeld (C, 1967-72)

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Obituaries Corps and as a Captain in the Army Emergency Reserve. He John Brian Chetwynd, (S, 1933-37) always spoke highly of A.C.C. and its contribution to his career. CHETWYND Dr. John, born 12 October 1919. Radiologist, ODs benefited from his many managerial positions from Boswell’s Husband, Father, Grandfather, Friend. Died 25 November 2009 in Norwich to Simpson’s in the Strand and the Savoy. He became in Lions Gate Hospital, North Vancouver. John is survived by General Manager with Grand Metropolitan Hotels, a Director wife Sybil Rodger, sons Roger and Stephen, daughters Anne and with Centre Hotels and Chairman and President of the Hotel Heather, granddaughter Teresa, and many friends and colleagues. Industry Marketing Group, before setting up his own company of catering suppliers, which traded mainly with the Middle East, John started Durham School in September 1933 and went on providing among a lot of other things, workers for the agricultural to captain the XV 1935-36. He left in 1937 to read Medicine at development of Saudi-Arabia. The Old Dunelmian Lodge Old Dunelmian Royal Arch Chapter Edinburgh, where he earned his University Blue in 1944. He won The Lodge has been active in raising funds for both masonic There are three degrees in Freemasonry; Entered Apprentice, a Gold Medal for Forensic Medicine in 1942. Having served Everard lived most of his adult life at Sutton Court, Chiswick, and School projects as well as other smaller charity donations. Fellow Craft and Master Mason but through a quirk of history, in the R.A.F.V.R at the R.A.F. Hospital, Kirkham he became a he an impressive block of 146 early 20th century apartments, in In 2014 the stained glass window, funded by the Lodge, was the three degrees also explicitly include the Royal Arch degree, became a Radiologist in 1953. His career in Radiology took him which he moved from a smaller bachelor pad to more spacious installed in the south wall of the School Chapel. There have also which completes the story of the Master Mason degree. to Ontario and later to Vancouver where he retired in 1989. accommodation for his wife Claudia and their children. At an been donations to assist in funding the new hymn books and age when most people have retired, it is perhaps not surprising the book-cases in which to store them and to assist the CDT The degree ceremonies performed in the Lodge are based His obituary read “Life may be simpler without him but not nearly that he kept busy for many years as the Estate Manager of Sutton department with various items of equipment and also the Music around the story of the construction of King Solomon’s Temple, as interesting or fun.” Court as well as, for more than 10 years, looking after foreign Department and Rowing Club. The Most recent donation was built to house the Ark of the Covenant. History tells us about the dignitaries for the British Council. He also enjoyed his involvement to an upgrade of the Chapel Organ. Other donations have construction and the subsequent destruction of the temple, and the Richard Longstaff (P, 1958-63) with the development of the allotments overlooking the Chiswick been made to the Cathedral to assist in the restoration of the building of a second temple on the foundations of the first. The Richard sadly passed away peacefully on 3 March 2017, Reach of the River Thames. His many hobbies included collecting octagonal monks kitchen and to a project by Durham Masons degree of the Royal Arch continues the story of the Lodge degrees by following an illness affecting his blood cells aged 72. He is not only stamps, but much bric-a brac in which he (and to provide a teddy bear for every child admitted to hospital bringing us forward in time to the construction of the second temple. survived by his wife Jill and son Richard. along with many close sometimes only he) could see potential. throughout the County. friends, some of whom he had known since childhood. Always If Everard’s profession was management, his passion was The Old Dunelmian Royal Arch Chapter is where those who have happy and good natured, Richard will be a loss to his family cooking. While entertaining, he could conjure up the most The Lodge held its annual Service in the School Chapel on progressed up to Master Mason in the Old Dunelmian Lodge, or and his many friends. delicious meals, without a pause in the flow of conversation Sunday 10 April 2016, with many wives, friends, and Masons another lodge, can continue their masonic journey. Our Chapter is and with scarcely a glance at the array of cooking pots into from other Lodges attending and enjoying Sunday Lunch in Big closely linked to the lodge, bearing the same Lodge number in the Peter Wickham, (S, 1942-47) which he casually flicked ingredients en passant. School after the service. The next service will be held on 9 April United Grand Lodge of England’s register and is made up primarily Peter came to Durham School in 1942 on a county scholarship. 2017 at 11 am and anyone is welcome to book for lunch with of members of Old Dunelmian Lodge. He was both Head of House and Head of School. He won several The OD Society is greatly in his debt. With his felicitous the Lodge secretary (email address below). There will also be prizes at School including Bishop Lee Prize for Divinity three years combination of cooking and management skills, hospitality was a Riverboat cruise on 9 June on the Wear in Durham to which Just like the Lodge, new candidates must express an interest in in a row (45-47) and the Metcalf Prize for Mathematics (1947). his talent. He organised the London OD Dinners for many years. everyone is welcome. joining rather than be invited. The Old Dunelmian Lodge and He sat on the committee of staff and pupils who were tasked He knew the Club and he knew the hotels and he knew London Chapter have an extra qualification for membership beyond the with improving the School’s library after the war. He was also a better than any taxi-driver. When ODs were pushed out into June 4 2016 was the fiftieth anniversary of the Consecration of usual requirements – every prospective member must have a close corporal in the Joint Training Corps (the forerunner of the modern the night at the dinner’s end, there always seemed to be a very the Lodge, a ceremony which was performed in Big School, and connection to Durham School such as ODs, Parents or members Combined Cadet Force). He left in 1947 to go to St John’s comfortable hotel with a vacant suite, crates of beer and long to celebrate a dinner was held on the exact anniversary, which of Staff. College Cambridge to read Mathematics. deep sofas, just round the corner. saw Big School filled almost to capacity. Two of the Founders, Charles V. Scott (C, 1939-45) and John Elstrop (S, 1946-49) Our Chapter only meets twice a year, compared to the six meetings Peter was an enthusiastic and longstanding member of the He faced his final illness with dignity and courage and died on attended as guests of the Lodge. of the Lodge. The February meeting is a ceremony to place the Old Dunelmian Society and was a frequent attender of reunions, the 9 January 2017 aged 83. The funeral was at St Michael’s newly elected officers of the lodge into their roles and our June especially in London, where Peter was part of the organising Church, Sutton Court. Kenneth E.C. Howe (P, 1955-58) was installed as Master of meeting is a ceremony for new candidates who wish to join our committee. the Lodge in July 2015 and was followed in the position in July Chapter. After each meeting we have a semi-formal meal together All of us who knew him were beguiled by his cheerfulness and 2016 by C. Michael Saint (P, 1966-70). The Installation Meeting which gives us a chance to catch up with old friends, and make Everard Stuart Whitehouse (P, 1947-50) kindness. Beneath his effortless charm and the pin-stripes, his is always held at the school with the Installation Ceremony being new ones. We also welcome guests from other Chapters. Being a Forward by Ritchie Salkeld, President OD Society: goodness and humour were always bubbling away. held in the Luce Theatre followed by the Installation Banquet in member of a Chapter or Lodge entitles you to visit other Chapters Everard, as you will see below, has been one of the staunchest Derek Baty Big School. or Lodges right across the globe, continuing the tradition of the supporters of the School and OD Society, and a friend of mine Past President ODS & Friend of Everard’s for 70 years travelling masons who built the great cathedrals and castles of for about 40 years. He almost never missed a London OD Dinner. The members of Old Dunelmian Lodge wish to record their Europe. I will miss him. He was such a lovely chap. Norman J.B.Prynn Former Bursar 1987 - 1992 thanks to the Headmaster, catering staff, estate staff and Norman died on 1 January 2017. Norman joined the Governing Colin Looker in the printing department for the use of School Last year in February we installed Michael Liddle (L, 1990-95) Everard Stuart Whitehouse Body in 1986 and retired from ICI in 1987 to take over as School buildings, and the help and assistance provided to the Lodge. as First Principal (a position similar to President or Chairman), Everard Whitehouse, a son of that increasingly rare breed, the Bursar. In his five years as Bursar he had a remarkable effect on and in June we held a BBQ for members and their families. In Parson Headmaster, was brought up in Liverpool. He vividly both the finances and the fabric of the School. He remained a Anyone interested in membership of the Lodge is welcome to February this year we will install Eric Robinson (S, 1956-59) as remembered the heavy bombing, and being chosen to sing in loyal supporter of Durham School in his retirement. contact the secretary, John Liddle First Principal. the Liverpool Cathedral Choir at the special service celebrating (C, 1955-61) by email at [email protected] for full the end of hostilities. He entered Poole House in 1947. Ingledew, Elizabeth (Nee Bowen) Former Matron of details. We welcome enquiries from ODs, staff, and close If anyone is interested in finding out more information about the From an unusually early age he seemed set on a career in Caffinites relatives of past and present pupils, for joining membership or Royal Arch in general, or the Old Dunelmian Royal Arch Chapter catering and management, in both of which he became skilled Elizabeth died peacefully in Hillview Nursing Home on December initiation into Freemasonry. You do not need to wait to be invited in particular, please contact the secretary Lloyd Pickering (P, 1997- and qualified via the school of Hotel Management at Battersea 22 2016 aged 77 years. Formally of Marske by the Sea. Beloved to become a Freemason. 2002) via email at [email protected] Polytechnic, and then National Service in the Army Catering mother of Adam, Ben and the late Nicholas, dear mother in law

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of Anneke, much loved grandmother of Alisha and a much Son of E.R.Appeton J.P. Father of D.R.Appleton OD & loved aunt of Stella, Caroline and Jamie. Her well attended A.E.Appleton OD. Choral Soc. & Dramatic Soc. Latin & funeral service was held at Emmanuel Parish Church, Saltburn Greek prizes. Left Christmas 1936. C.V.I. F.R.I.C.S. 1948-50 on Wednesday January 4, 2017. Valuer, Inland Revenue. 1956-85 Chartered Surveyor, Partner in Ralph Appleton & Hall, Chartered Surveyors, Stockton-On- Robert Peter Mangin Bell (School House, 1932-37) Tees. 1937 Commissioned DLI, TA 1939-46, Major, R.A., Peter was born in Darlington on 11 September 1918. He died T.D. J.P 1958-72. aged 97 on 20 May 2016. Educated at Durham School, he read Modern Languages at Jesus College, Cambridge. He was Thornton Percival Mitcalfe (S, 1944-50) a keen sportsman at school and played for the XV and rowed b.20/10/32 d 13/3/16. O.D. 44-50 Son of E.T.Mitcalfe 44 in the first crew. At Cambridge, he won the Fairbairn Cup with Grange Road Darlington. SH Sixth Form Prize. Livesay Cup for the First Boat in 1938. best in school cadet force. Fives team. Cricket XI 1949-50. Left summer 1950 UVI. F.C.A. Senior partner for Gilchrist, Tash and His time in Cambridge was interrupted by WWII where he served Sansom C.A. Retired from Partnership 1988 following a coronary as a Lieutenant in the 21st LAA R.A. Sent to what was then the and 5 way heart bypass operation. 2 years 1956-58 R.A.P.C. Netherlands East Indies, now Indonesia, he took part in the 1st Lieutenant G.S.M.(Clasp Malaya). Ran a large Caravan Java/Sumatra campaign of 1942. After the Dutch and British Park in upper Teesdale. Forces surrendered, he spent three years as a Japanese prisoner of war. He graduated in 1946 and joined Collisons, where he Member of Board Kirklevington Detention Centre, Commissioner qualified as a solicitor in 1949. He retired as a Partner in 1982. of Income Tax 1959, Chairman 1985. Member of board In retirement he served as a trustee of the Hospital of St Cross Aycliffe & Peterlee Development Corporation 1965-68, Deputy & Almshouse of Noble Poverty, Winchester. He married Heather Chairman 1968-73, acting Chairman 1970-72, O.B.E. 1973. Doreen Parnell in 1960; they had two sons, a daughter and Governor Teesside High School 1953, Chairman 1986. Director, nine grandchildren. Darlington Building Society 1960-90, Chairman 1981-90. Chairman Stockton Conservative Assoc. 1980-86. Kenneth Ernest Webster (S, 1947-49) By Maurice Bell Arthur “Pip” Appleby, MA. d.13/6/2016 b. 30/09/1933 Son of J.A.Webster, Greencroft, Elton Road, Darlington. S.H. Left Christmas 1949. Ken was Head of English at Durham School, 1960-65. a good friend, a contemporary of mine and a groomsman ODs will be sad to learn that Pip (Arthur) Appleby died in at my wedding. He qualified as an optician and joined his September 2016, aged 85. Pip was an inspirational head of father’s practice in Darlington, succeeding him when his English in the early 1960s and he will be remembered with father retired. affection by former colleagues and by those who were taught He was a low handicap golfer, an accomplished pianist and by him or who knew him through Junior Colts’ Rugby or the an amusing raconteur, quite a character. Of recent times Army section of the CCF. he would be seen around the West End of Darlington on his bicycle. Pip went on to become Deputy Head at Annfield Plain and then Headmaster of Ponteland High School. In retirement, he lived Ralph Downs Appleton (S, 1933-38) in Morpeth. Pip’s wife Joan died some years ago but is survived Appleton, Ralph Downs b.26/02/1919 d.September 2015. by his three children and several grandchildren.

Since the publication of the last Dunelmian Magazine we have received word that the following Old Dunelmians have passed away. If you know of any errors or omissions from this list please do not hesitate to contact the Development Office, [email protected] 0191 386 4783.

Name Entered Left House Died Mr Geoff Humble 1956 1961 Poole 27 August 2015 Mr Ralph Appleton 1933 1936 School 22 September 2015 Mr Tom Hay 1947 1951 School 7 October 2015 Mr Rae Walton 1932 1935 Caffinites 4 January 2016 Rev. Tim Shepherd 1946 1953 School 27 January 2016 Mr Robin Crowther 1954 1958 Caffinites 28 January 2016 Dr. Fraser Lund 1941 1946 Poole 9 February 2016 Mr Michael Morris 1946 1950 School 5 March 2016 Mr Peter Bell 1932 1937 School 20 May 2016 Mr Everard Whitehouse 1947 1950 Poole 9 January 2017 Mr Peter Wickham 1942 1947 School 31 January 2017 Mr Richard Longstaff 1958 1963 Poole 3 March 2017 Dates for Saturday 9 September 2017 OD Annual Dinner at Durham School Friday 9 February 2018 OD London Dinner the Diary Friday 8 February 2019 OD London Dinner

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