Bromsgrovians connected Bromsgrove’s AlumNi Magazine Issue 2 2015/16
Welcome from the Chairman
As I write, the curtain has come down on the Rugby World Cup. It’s been an outstanding tournament drawing Reunited: Old Bromsgrovians at the Pre-1960s Reunion enjoy a tour of the School with current pupils together players and fans from around the world through one common thread – a love of rugby. It occurred to me that The first word... the community of Old Bromsgrovians – with the common thread of an I count myself in nothing else so happy education in Worcestershire - is an As in a soul remembering my good friends. even more diverse group with alumni in 2015 scattered all over the globe. (Richard II) Some return home, having completed their studies at Bromsgrove, with the There’s nothing more tiresome to a teenager At every reunion that we host, evidence School now attracting students from than a Headmaster trying to tell them what abounds of the lasting influence of School over 45 countries. Others have seized will one day come to pass. The adolescent friends. From those who left a mere five the opportunity to travel and pursue brain is hardwired for ‘now’ – the future is years before to those who recall life at their careers on the international stage. an afterthought. Promises that hard work Bromsgrove during the War, all are shaped pays off, bad habits become ingrained, by those fellows with whom they shared a In either case it’s inspirational to hear digital indiscretions come back to haunt and class, a meal, a dorm, a triumph or a defeat. how a Bromsgrove education empowers broken hearts mend - all usually fall upon Whatever other relationships we form in life, students to go on and really make their deaf ears. Accordingly, I try not to patronize our earliest and most formative are forged at mark on the world. Enjoy reading about our pupils by constantly predicting their School. Hence the great strength of our OB their exploits and make sure that you tell future for them. community. us about yours too. However, on one issue it’s hard to bite PETER CLAGUE HANS ROSTRUP my tongue. The friendships they form at HEADMASTER CHAIRMAN Bromsgrove will sustain them for a lifetime and I unashamedly remind them of that at any opportunity.
In this issue: The year in photographs… The inside story: Stephen Page… News from your era… A Level, IB, BTEC and GCSE Pupils celebrated their superb exam results over Picture This… the Summer. 85% A*, A & B at A level, 39 point average for IB and 85% A* to B A look back at the academic year 2014/15. at GCSE.
William Shakespeare’s The Winter’s Tale was the School’s major production of the year.
Remembrance Day 2014 was a poignant occasion this year, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of WWI. Pupils, Parents and Old Bromsgrovians joined together CCF cadets planted a memorial to celebrate the School’s annual garden near the Armoury to Commemoration Day. We were remember the thousands of soldiers particuarly delighted to welcome killed in the Wars. a group of former pupils from The dining room, originally opened in 1965 by The Queen Wendron-Gordon who were Mother, has undergone a complete transformation over the last 12 celebrating their 20th anniversary. months. The dining hall officially re-opened to hundreds of excited and hungry pupils and staff in September 2015.
Hazeldene, the first of the girls’ day Houses to undergo refurbishment over the summer of 2015, re-opened and was ready for business at the start of term in September.
Thomas Cookes, the oldest House on campus, is now undergoing its own The cast of LEAR Inc. performed a six-day run of the extensive refurbishment works. drama production at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in August 2015. They were delighted to see a number of Parents, Old Bromsgrovians and Friends of the School in the audience.
Fauré’s Reqiuem and Cantique de Jean Racine as well as Ralph Vaughan Williams’ Five Mystical Songs were performed by the Choral Society.
Bromsgrove School continued A momentous occasion for the whole the partnership with the school occured in March 2015 - the Bromsgrove International 1st XV won the NatWest Schools Young Musicians’ Competition Cup at Twickenham, playing against (BIYMC), holding their four-day Dulwich College in the final. music competition in Routh Hall. On recent overseas trips, CCF cadets have provided an honour guard under the Menin Gate in Ypres for the Act of Remembrace and completed project work at a Picture This… remote community school in Kwazulu Natal. EXTRA-CURRICULAR HIGHLIGHTS FROM 2014/15.
As Deputy Head (Co-Curricula), Paul Mullan is responsible for the wider variety of academic extension activities that occur at Bromsgrove School. Here, he The CCF has a strength of 400 cadets, and we are gives you a run down from the 2014/15 proud of our partnership with two local high schools. academic year. Through Community Action, pupils work in the local community, participating in daily activities at residential homes, charity shops, animal welfare charities and ICT help Our Chapel Choir sang Evensong at within the local area. Peterborough Cathedral and featured heavily in the commercial CD recording of Advent to Christmas. There were no fewer than 275 singers present on the recording from Year 2 to Upper Sixth. Thirty-four pupils have received their Gold Duke of Edinbugh Award since September, with a further eighty gaining Silver and “Extra-Curricular gives 134 gaining Bronze. A Bromsgrove School expedition pupils a wide range of party worked closely with the Good Hope orphanage and school in opportunities.” Arusha, Tanzania. The pupils raised over £1000 to help the school build a library. The Fourth Form performed in the National Theatre Connections Festival, Whilst there, Bromsgrove pupils with an interpretation of The Accordion spent a full day with the local Shop. community, painting three classrooms, planting trees around the grounds and speaking to the children.
Sixth Form teams reached the Bromsgrove School is currently ranked 5th best Regional Finals of the Debating Matters independent school for sport and 2nd best co- and European Youth Parliament educational school, awarded by School Sport competitions, whilst others made it to Magazine. the Quarter-Finals of the English-Speaking Union Mace The boys’ athletics team are ranked in the top twelve Competition and won the Michael Holt schools in the country, the U18 basketball team were Debate. County Champions in 2014, the senior cricketers won the Chesterton Cup for the third year running, the golf team finished 10th in the National Schools’ Championships, the U18 girls made it to the Indoor Hockey National Finals and the U18 netballers reached the Quarter-Finals of the Independent Schools’ Competition. Hazeldene Housman Hall Charlie Clemmow (1997-2004) visited the School with cameraman Ben About You Hoffman, talking about their media careers. As well as being a cameraman, find out what Old Bromsgrovians from your era are doing now. Ben is a wildlife documentary maker and Charlie enjoys a successful stage We recently discovered this feature in and television career. Now magazine, with Ollie Frost (2006- Since December 2014, James Goodall 2008) as their resident expert sports Elmshurst nutritionist. Keep up the good work Ollie! Philip Langford and Philip Hobson (2007-2014) has been training as (both 1947-1952) visited the School in a Charity Apprentice, alongside his the Summer term. Interestingly, they degree. James is currently in Kisumu, Kenya working with street children were born on the same day, joined Former pupils as well as former and orphaned by AIDS and malaria. School and were in Elmshurst at the current staff joined together to celebrate same time and later went into the the opening of the newly refurbished Law profession together. They have Housman Hall and the two new remained lifelong friends. During their residential wings. Guests were amazed visit to Bromsgrove, Mr Langford and by the transformation and delighted in Mr Hobson enjoyed a tour of the School being shown around by current pupils with a current Elmshurst pupil and also from the House. met with the Deputy Headmaster, Philip Alex Cook (1997-2001) was presented Connie E (2013-2015) took part in Bowen. They later attended the History with a Bromsgrove School tour tie as Convocation Day at Northeastern of the School presentation that evening, a memento by the Singapore Select University, celebrating the start of Eric Lai (2001-2006) recently got where they reminisced about their captain, after the School played Mad Cap Theatre Productions, run by the new academic year. Connie said in touch, as he was one of the first school days. against the team on a stop over Emma Hobday (2006-2008) performed that there would never be a prouder students to stay in Housman Hall in ahead of their tour to Australia in July at the Artrix in Bromsgrove at the end moment than holding her country’s Gordon 2004 (called Perry Hall back then). 2015. Unfortunately Alex was away of May and also enjoyed a short run of flag amongst the other 127 nations He remembers with fond memories his on business when the School visited, Nevil Malin (1948-1953) has continued UK theatres with their show, Postcards represented. Houseparents Mr and Mrs Hayward, and the tie was given to him after the to very generously donate his treasured from the Seaside. The part of Lester especially how kind and supportive Singaporean captain discovered that he books to the School Library for the last Duvall was played by Nick Baldock they were. Eric joined the House with was an Old Bromsgrovian himself. couple of years. During one of his book (the brother of current member of nine other students as Lower Sixth from drop-offs, two of our pupils showed him staff Kate Linehan, née Baldock), who China and Hong Kong. It was the first Alex qualified to play international around his old House, as well as some himself worked at the School in 2007- time any of them had studied abroad. rugby for Singapore this year, and of the newer additions to Bromsgrove 2008. Nick used to direct Emma when he has gained 2 caps (1 try) to date. including the Sports Centre and the she was at Bromsgrove so she is now He remembers his own rugby tour to science labs. enjoying the reversal of roles! Australia with Bromsgrove in 2000, and says that 15 years later it’s nice to see history repeat itself. Brian Scriven (1948-1952) would like to connect with Bromsgrovians Luke White (centre) with his former Bromsgrove who share his ideas and values. Brian Philip Mennie (1999-2005) visited team mates after winning the NatWest Schools Cup left the school in 1950 and says that Bromsgrove during the summer term Bromsgrove gave him a strong, modern with his wife and daughter to look The School was delighted to hear and rational education. He particularly around the School. that Harlequins have signed former remembers the history teacher Mr W.G. 1st XV captain Luke White (2013- Holmes. 2015), who has joined their academy with immediate effect. The Telegraph In 2010 Brian wrote a book entitled newspaper recently interviewed Luke Buckley’s Testament; What to believe Congratulations to Anna Perrott (1998- about his success in the NatWest when you stop believing in God which 2007) who recently informed us that Schools Cup and what he was looking explores instinctive morality. As a result she was nominated, and later chosen, Tam Dinh (2001-2006) reconnected forward to at Quins. You can read of writing the book, Brian says that he as one of ‘Tomorrows Travel Leaders with the School on a recent visit to the the full interview on The Telegraph or lost religion but gained a faith - and Today 30 under 30’. Anna works as a UK from his native Vietnam. Tam is Bromsgrove School websites. he is sure that there are other Old Product & Commercial Manager for a keen to hear from other Vietnamese Old Bromsgrovians who share his ideas. If cruise company. Bromsgrovians. Luke is currently on dual registration you would like to get in touch, please with Dorking RFC for the season. email Brian at [email protected] Lupton Alex McIntosh (1996-2004) kindly Mary Windsor Oakley Matt Mullan (School 1997-2005) was Barrie Lloyd (1945-1948) returned to offered his expertise and advice to Katie Hile (1998-2003) is working Almost 100 guests enjoyed listening to named in the BT Dream Team at the the School in February 2015, along with current pupils interested in a career in as Business Producer at the BBC Old Bromsgrovian Theodora Dyakova Aviva Premiership Rugby Awards in his son, Tim, who had travelled from banking. Alex is currently Relationship World Service. During the summer she (2005-2007) at the Foundation Ladies’ May 2015. More recently, Wasps RFC Cambridgeshire, for the 1XV match Director at Barclays Personal and recorded an interview with the Prime Lunch in April 2015. appointed Matt as a co-captain for the against Stamford in the 7th round of the Corporate Banking. Minister of Malta on Radio 4. 2015/16 season. Congratulations Matt! NatWest Schools’ Cup.
There was certain to be family rivalry Adriana Voloshchuk (2001-2006) on the touchline, as Tim is an Old and her colleague Valeria Tkachenko School Stamfordian and Barrie supported interviewed international students about Simon Bucknall (1990-1995) Bromsgrove. their views on a proposed student enthralled and entertained Fifth helpline. The initiative, to be run by Form pupils with his public speaking Before the match began, Barrie and the company, Ubiqutor, aims to help workshop in Routh Hall at the beginning Tim enjoyed a tour of the sports facilities Alex with Zia Leech, Head of Careers and UCAS Russian speaking pupils with issues of September 2015. with Jenny Bossard (née Gricks, Walters they might face when moving to the UK. 1972-1974) and they were thrilled to find three of the four Lloyd brothers’ Lyttelton Theodora came to Bromsgrove from James Beddall ran the London names on the honours boards in the Bulgaria via the HMC Projects Student Marathon in April 2015, in memory of Nishil Thakrar (1997-2002) has Cricket Pavilion. Scholarship Scheme, which provides his father, Peter (1957-1960). launched a new men’s clothing venture, Credit: England RFU full funding for exceptional young Steel & Jelly, with a prominent spot people from Central and Eastern Europe within the Grand Central Shopping to attend a British boarding school. Centre, Birmingham. We wish Nishil the In her second year, she became a very best of luck and look forward to Foundation Scholar. Thomas Cookes visiting the new shop soon! Theodora recounted tales of her school days and thanked Bromsgrove for the Sam Waltier (2007-2012) made his opportunities it gave her. debut performance in the England Students’ squad. The team managed to Oakley Emily Horton (1998-2001) recently It was a truly inspiring talk and we edge out their opponents, Wales, taking got in touch to share an article she had thank Theodora for taking the time out the win by five tries to three. Assistant written. Emily interviewed fellow Old of her weekend to spend with us. Coach, Ian Davies was particularly James raised over £3500 for the British Bromsgrovian Matt Mullan (School 1997- pleased with Sam’s performance Heart Foundation. He says that he 2005) for The Windsor magazine. Emily saying that he “kept the team moving desperately wanted to give something is the Editor at Sheengate Publishing. throughout the match”. back to the incredible nurses and You can read the full interview online at surgeons who not only afforded his www.essentialsurrey.co.uk family the opportunity to spend six important months with his dad after his Mary Windsor initial heart attack, and then delivering Ha Anh Vu (2000-2002) met up with the most awful news after Peter’s We were delighted to hear that Rachel Scannell (Assistant Head) 28-hour surgery. James says that the Chairman of Governors and Old We were thrilled to hear from Ally Taft whilst she was in Ho Chi Mnih City medical staff do not get the credit they Bromsgrovian, Stewart Towe CBE (1988-1993) and partner Glyn Harrhy on business. Ha Anh is a successful deserve and this is why he chose the (1965-1970) won the Ambassador of (Elmshurst 1987-1992) on the birth model, author and UNICEF Goodwill British Heart Foundation. the Year Award at TheBusinessDesk.com of their son, Edward Burchill Harrhy Ambassador. West Midlands Business Masters (Teddy), born 3rd July 2015. Ally says Awards. The award is presented to an he is a proper Bromsgrovian baby, and individual who has, beyond the call One of this year’s leavers. Isabella with both of them being rugby players, of duty, ‘batted’ for the region and Richards (2013-2015), shared some of the bets are on as to whether he will be in so doing helped to increase its her gap year photographs from her time a scrum-half (Ally) or a fly-half (Glyn)! attractiveness from which to do business. in Australia. Glyn and Ally re-connected 20 years The above photo shows Isabella proudly after leaving Bromsgrove at one of the wearing her Bromsgrove 1st team kit in School reunions and got together again Uluru! at Commem 2012. Three years later they have a beautiful baby boy and are happily living just outside of Hereford. Alex Rajkowski (1993-1998) is now living in France and playing in a Ha Anh and her partner, Olly recently band called ‘The Buskers 74’. Alex is got engaged, and we offer our donating the profits from his new single Paul Stanfield (1981-1988) took part congratulations and best wishes to them to the Forces. You can listen to the song in the London Marathon in April 2015, for the future. on iTunes or on their YouTube channel raising money for the Primrose Hospice. ‘The Buskers Morzine’. Thomas Cookes Walters Wendron / Matt Mullan (School 1997-2005) was Olivia Safe (1992-1994) performed Greg Simpson (1999-2010) recently named in the BT Dream Team at the Wendron-Gordon Aviva Premiership Rugby Awards in with the Heritage Orchestra and graduated with a 2.1 Masters in A group of former pupils from Wendron- May 2015. conductor Jules Buckley for the Late Chemistry from Newcastle University. Gordon organised a special visit to the Night at the Proms 2015. Olivia sang On graduation day he proudly wore his School on Commemoration Day (27th music from Vangelis and Orbital. OB tie. The silk ties are now available to June 2015) to celebrate their 20th year purchase in the School Shop. of leaving Bromsgrove. We also offer Olivia our heartiest congratulations on her engagement to Organised by Andrew Cowley (1990- partner Duncan Patrick. Wendron / 1995), the OBs even managed to visit Wendron-Gordon their old House and find their former Josh Gupta (2010-2013) met up study and bedroom! with Ollie Strong (2011-2013) at Re-creating their photograph 20 years later: OBs in Wendron-Gordon in 1995, and today in 2015 ATC Pirbright. Ollie passed out after completing his phase 1 training and he is now at Gibraltar Barracks to continue his phase 2 training in the Royal Engineers.
Oliver Thomas (2007-2012) returned to Bromsgrove to talk to pupils about life as a third year Medic. Oliver is currently Simon Moore, James Nailer, Johan Larson, Andrew Claire McCahill (1997-2002) took studying Medicine at Peninsula Medical Cowley, Mrs Swansborough, Hanish Malhotra, part in the Marathon des Sables in Anthony Sharman, James Thomas, Adam Sheppard School. and Edward Horner April 2015. Her ‘jaunt’ as Claire calls it, raised £6500 for Walking with the The talks, organised by the Careers Wounded. Department, provide invaluable ‘insider’ information for current students. If OBs The race took place in the Moroccan or former/current parents would like to Sahara over 7 days, with Claire Llanwrtyd Wells help out in other sectors, please get in Philip Rowsell (2006-2014) undertook running a total of 250km. There were Former pupils of Bromsgrove, who were touch. his GAP Year at Disney World in 1400 runners in the group and exiled to Llanwrtyd Wells during WWII, Orlando, Florida. During his time with everyone had to be self-sufficient car- returned to School in March 2015 for a Disney, Philip attended classes held rying theri own sleeping bag, food and special celebratory lunch. at the Disney University, where he first aid equipment. learnt about Walt’s dream and how Old Bromsgrovians, some of whom had the company strives for perfection. During the 5th stage of the marathon, not seen each other since their school Now back in the UK, Philip has begun Claire recorded a sub 5 hour marathon, days, reminisced over lunch in the Old his course at the University of Leeds coming in as 9th woman and 171st Chapel. Photographs and record books reading Economics and Geography. overall for the stage, despite having to were on display where guests were able squeeze her blistered and battered feet to spot their own names and faces. Oliver (centre) with two current Sixth Form pupils into her shoes. At the end of the day some of our This is such an enormous achievement, guests kindly recorded their memories and we congratulate Claire on her Staff News of Llanwrtyd Wells and Bromsgrove with Miss Scannell (Assistant Head) met successful completion of the race. the History Department and current up with Mlle Emmanuelle Rochefort pupils. These oral history recordings will in Ho Chi Minh City. Mlle Rochefort form part of the School archive, which taught French at Bromsgrove School Old Bromsgrovian Leslie Francis (W 1939-1942) Jenny Bossard, Andrew Campbell and Nikki Thorpe will enrich the teaching and learning of with Sixth Form pupil Ana Babic and Head of School until 2006 and is now responsible for the School’s history for generations to Kate Edgington Andrew Campbell (W 1967-1972) External Relations at the Conservatoire come. and Jenny Bossard (neé Gricks, Ws National des Arts et Métiers in Paris. 1972-1974) along with Nikki Thorpe (Archivist) represented the School in Llanwrtyd Wells for the poignant Remembrance Day Service on Sunday, 8th November 2015.
The School is proud of its strong links with Llanwrtyd Wells and we thank Andrew and Jenny for their support in honouring the fallen Old Bromsgrovian soldiers who are commemorated in the Welsh town. Thai
Cricket and Music at A Lesson for OBs
Hagley Hall School started early for some of our Old Bromsgrovians in September, when An Old Bromsgrovian cricket team they visited Bromsgrove for a meeting. played against Lord Cobham’s XI at Hagley Cricket Club, as part of the The OBs taking their ‘exam resits’ in Foundation Charity Preview Day at class were: Hagley Hall and Park in May 2015. Patrick Firminger (Ly 1969-1977) Robert Biddle (G 1952-1956) Despite early success from the OBs, William Caswell (E 1963-1968) Hagley posted an imposing 205 from David Cariss (E 1949-1953) their 20 overs. Julian and Peter took two Stephen Rhodes (M 1956-1960) wickets, but the find of the afternoon came Hugh Furber (E 1953-1957) when Richard Meese (S 1990-1995) Tim Powell (L 1952-1956) offered himself up as a bowling option for the OB team. Richard With thanks to Mark Gunton (Ws 1977- promptly repaid all faith taking an 1982) for the photograph and words! impressive 3 wickets for 16 runs plus a full length dive ricochet onto the stumps for a run out. Patrick Firminger, Robert Biddle, William Caswell, David Cariss, Stephen Rhodes, Hugh Furber and Tim Powell
In reply the OBs reached 167, a valiant effort with Ben Dudley (Ly 1995-2005), OB Netball a top scorer of the day with 43. Congratulations to the OB Netball A and The cricketers were joined by pupil B sides who were victorious against the musicians, who performed in various School in both their matches. ensembles throughout the day around the park. Big Band entertained the players and spectators during their tea break with a substantial and really enjoyable selection of jazz music. On the Palladian Bridge overlooking the lake a huge variety of music was on offer: the Brass Group, Flute Group, Sax Ensemble and String Ensemble all performed throughout the afternoon Robert Gough (E 92-97) bowling for the Old Richard Meese (S 90-95) celebrating after taking with an exciting programme of beautiful Bromsgrovians three wickets against Hagley CC music.
Bromsgrovian Club President Paddy Firminger and the Headmaster Peter Clague at the OB Dinner The A Team: Helen Reilly nee Lambert, Hayley Rudd, Becky Strangward, Sarah Mitchell, Ellie Trow, Jenny Muddyman, Lydia Wolsey and President’s Dinner Harriet Eales The Bromsgrovian Club President’s The Headmaster, Peter Clague, was the Dinner, hosted by Paddy Firminger guest speaker; his speech can be found (Lu 1943-1947) was held at the on the School’s YouTube Channel at Bank House Hotel near Worcester in youtube.com/bromsgroveschool November 2014.
We were delighted to welcome Old Bromsgrovians, their partners and guests to what was a very enjoyable evening, with many people commenting on the excellent venue.
The B Team: Jacqui Padmore, Becky Alton, Lou Walker, Celina Goodwin, Clare Wells, Cath Pullen and Denise Cresswell
OB Team: Back Row - Richard Gough, Robert Gough, Andrew Gough, Richard Meese, Richard Hare, Glyn Harrhy, Ben Dudley, Andrew Langlands. Front Row - Julian Court, Dave Fallows (Team Manager and Director of Cricket), Andrew Parffrey Pre-1960s Reunion 2005 Leavers’ Reunion
Over 85 Old Bromsgrovians returned The first 10-year Reunion was held to the School on Saturday, 12th at Bromsgrove School in September September for a special gathering. 2015, for Old Bromsgrovians who left the School in 2005. We were pleased All of the attendees had left the School to welcome almost 40 leavers for a prior to 1960, and for some it had been tour of the School and lunch with the 50 years since they had been back to Headmaster and members of staff. Bromsgrove. Many were stunned and delighted by the developments that had taken place Guests were welcomed with a service since leaving, and tales were regaled of in the Memorial Chapel, complete their time at Bromsgrove over lunch. with Chapel Choir. The OBs also went on a tour of the School with current pupils, enjoyed reminiscing with their contemporaries over lunch and were thrilled with a rugby game - watching from the sidelines as Bromsgrove beat Warwick School 54-0.
Fellow Gordon pupils Denise Hayes and Tony Hilton on their tour of the School The Elmshurst cohort: Michael Cottrell, Will Thomas, James Fouracre, Mark Bagshaw, Mrs Pugh, Richard Levett and Andrew Bagshaw
Richard Levett and Antonio Magro
David Harrison and Paul Ashworth
OBs looking at their House photos in the Old Chapel Kathryn Gardiner, Nikki Broadbridge, Lauren Chandler, Roxanne Saili and Sarah Todd
Outside Wendron-Gordon: Michael Baker with Harry Orme looking on
Roxanne Saili, Lauren Chandler, Sarah Todd and James Fouracre reliving their schooldays! Clive Gummow and John Rose in the Memorial Photo Credit: Lauren Chandler Chapel
Dr Johns with pupils from his former House, Wendron-Gordon: Levon Balayan, Jack Connolly, Richard Hile, Ross Griffiths, Dr Johns, Sam Bishop, Nicholas Dallow, Ben Jones and David Mumford
Hans Rostrup and Paddy Firminger looking through the archives in the Old Chapel OBs on tour around the School with current pupils Brothers Mark and Andrew Bagshaw, with Jack Connolly (centre) Cookes House Reunion Mr Bowen Retires
Old Bromsgrovians returned to School At the end of the Summer term, Mr in November 2015 to celebrate the 50th Bowen retired after more than 34 anniversary of the founding of Cookes years at Bromsgrove School (and not House. including the years before when he taught at the Prep School!) Cookes House, led by Mr and Mrs Schilzzi, was only in being for 8 years, The Heads of School from 1981 - when in 1972 the House split into Present day were in attendance at a Lyttelton and Walters. special event, held in the Hospitality Suite in May 2015. The main event OBs and guests were welcomed with a however took place on Commemoration Chapel Service, where memories came Day when OBs from across the flooding back when the Chamber Choir Old Bromsgrovians and guests in attendance at the Cookes House Reunion generations came together and wished sang ‘Heaven’s Declare’ - the School Mr Bowen a fond farewell. Song from the 1960s and 1970s.
During tours of the current Thomas Cookes House, many OBs visited the Mr Bowen at the end of his final call-over on Commemoration Day, 27th June 2015 original 18-bedder on the top floor (which some still believe is haunted) and recounted tales of their school days whilst looking around Cookes Room, their former library. Guests later sat down to lunch in the Hospitality Suite where the reminiscences continued.
John Schilizzi, Clem Schilizzi and Penny Ribbeck (née Ian Sanders (61-66), the first Head of Cookes House Schilizzi)
Recent leavers, all of whom were Heads of School or deputies, returned to honour and celebrate Mr Bowen
Philip with Caroline Binham (a former Head of School)
Old Bromsgrovians looking around the current study areas on the top floor of Thomas Cookes House
Peter Clague (Headmaster), Clem Schilizzi, David Rock-Evans, Kim Daniels, Jackie Daniels, Martin Smith, Jaqueline Adkins, John Adkins, Lucy Fisher, Ian Sanders, Sarndra Leversha-Clague Philip with Tom Horton and Harry Willetts Peter Clague (Headmaster), Sarndra Leversha-Clague, Philip Bowen, Jane Bowen Interview Evening Could you be a Bromsgrove Alumni Ambassador?
Old Bromsgrovians and parents The Alumni Committee wish to find We realise that not everyone has time to Each Ambassador will have their own returned to Bromsgrove in November to OBs who are supporters of Bromsgrove commit to the responsibilities of being idea about how they wish to fulfil their help current pupils with their interview and who would be willing to assist with on a Committee, so we have come up role and the Committee is quite open to skills. keeping other former pupils connected with the idea of having Alumni suggestions. to the School. Committee Ambassadors. The The evening is invaluable in helping Ambassadors would assist the If you would like to put your name students prepare for university As our Alumni are now spread out all Committee by sharing their thoughts forward, or know someone to application - this is especially true of over the world and could be aged and suggestions on upcoming events or recommend, please contact the Alumni those applying to Oxford or Cambridge anywhere between 18 and 90, it is a initiatives. They could also help with Committee by writing to the School or those wishing to study Law, huge task to remain relevant to such a promoting particular events to their address or email us at Engineering, Business, Medicine, diverse group. peers and/or fellow countrymen/women. [email protected] Dentistry or Veterinary Science. The Our Ambassadors would be welcome to interviews are also intended to focus on The School and the Alumni Committee attend or dial into the Committee the presentation skills needed for any continue to encourage OBs to attend meetings but would certainly not be job application or interview process. events (whether here or in their own expected to do so. countries) and with your help, we’d like If you would like to take part in this to see this grow and develop. With our event in the future, please contact Zia new database recently launched, we Leech - email zleech@bromsgrove- envisage creating a huge ‘networking school.co.uk or telephone 01527 tool’ for all OBs and Sixth Formers. 579679 ext 238. Professor Herbert (E 1954-1957) with two of our current students looking to study science-based subjects
OB Merchandise
Is there any particular Old Bromsgrovian merchandise you would like to buy?
Last year the School introduced a range of new merchandise for OBs from silk ties to self-tie bow ties, umbrellas and enamel pin badges. New OB scarves are currently on order.
The Alumni Commttee is currently investigating socks and blazers.
If there is anything specific that you would like to see in the School Shop which is not currently available, please let us know by posting your thoughts on our Old Bromsgrovian Facebook page, email us or write to us at the School Alastair Willcox (S 1993-1998) with a pupil interested in a future Law career address. Thai
Spot the Difference!
The dining hall has been at the centre 50 years has passed between the two Do you remember when the dining hall of School life since 1964. In the pictures photos. Note the spectacular vaulted was first opened? Or do you have any below you can see the differences ceiling which was later covered up for food stories to tell from your own school between when the dining hall was first almost 40 years, until the recent buildig days? Get in touch, we’d love to hear opened by The Queen Mother in 1965, works allowed for it to be soundproofed from you. and again after its refurbishment in and revealed once more. September 2015.
Showing off the special Housman Hall cufflinks Deputy Head (Academic) Peter Ruben with some of our Hong Kong Old Bromsgrovians
Hong Kong get-together
Whilst Rachel Scannell (Assistant It was a delight to see Charles Tsai (WG As a result of meeting with many former Head) and Peter Ruben (Deputy Head 1989-1994) who was one of the very first pupils in both Hong Kong and Vietnam, Academic) were in Hong Kong for the pupils to attend Bromsgrove from Hong an idea has been formed about holding Top Schools event, they were pleased Kong. a South East Asia Reunion in the coming to welcome Old Bromsgrovians for an year. We’d like to hear your feedback on informal get-together in Dickins Bar at Two former students Edmund To (WG this, or any other ideas you might have. The Excelsior Hotel. 99-04) and Katy Chung (MW 98-03) about connecting with our OBs overseas. have set up a Bromsgrovian Hong Kong Facebook Group in the hope of facilitating further events and contact with OBs.
#OBsInLondon
Lisa Antonacci (Housman Hall 2008- From left to right is Diana Tleuliyeva If you have any photographs or news to 2011) recently shared this photograph (2009-2011), Hossi Lo (partner of Max share for future editions, please email, with us on Facebook. Schwahn), Maximillian Schwahn tweet or write to us at the School (contact (E 2008-2011), Viktor Brandt (E 2006- details on the back page). Lisa recently met up with OBs from 2010 2011), Dana Avramioti (O 2009-2011), - 2012 in the Aqua Kyoto restaurant in Kamila Shogelbayeva (O 2008-2010), If you’re on Twitter, why not tweet us London. Lisa Antonacci (HH 2008-2011) and @BromsSchool with your own hashtag Nowrin Hossain (HH 2010-2012). #OBsIn... Our News to You NEWS AND INFORMATION FROM THE BROMSGROVE ALUMNI OFFICE.
Archivist joins the Can you help with Staff Leavers School careers and uni visits? The following academic staff retired or A new initiative to help current pupils left Bromsgrove for pastures new at the with their UCAS applications got off end of the Summer term. Many OBs to a great start when recent OBs met will remember their teachers with great up with current pupils at Warwick and affection, therefore if you would like to Birmingham Universities. send your best wishes to any of the former staff listed below, please OBs Charlotte Collie (Hz 08-13), contact us so we can pass on the Dan Garvie (E 09-14) and Celia Sun message. (MW 12-14), who are all studying at We’re delighted to welcome Archivist, Warwick, were able to talk about their Philip Bowen (1981) Nikki Thorpe to Bromsgrove. Nikki experiences of campus life and gave Bill Caldwell (1990) joins us from the Library of Birmingham great advice to the potential applicants. Caroline Leather (1992) where she worked as Collections Rhys Watkins (2005) Curator. In Birmingham, Lewis Turner (Lu Laura McCutcheon (2006) 03-14), Beth Luckman (Hz 98-14), Jo Spearing (2006) Nikki will be working closely with the Abbie-May Griffiths (Hz 09-14) and Iskra Peric-Crnko (2007) Alumni Office on new exhibitions and Jenny Moore (Hz 05-14) gave their time Jackie Comley (2008) displays for the Old Chapel, as well enthusiastically to answer questions, Adele George (2009) as cataloguing the existing archives whilst showing the students around the Gareth George (2009) which have been collected through the university. Stephen Phennah (2010) centuries. Fiona Hardy (2011) The pupils found the opportunity very Jen Law (2011) If you have any stories or memorabilia valuable, hearing an insider’s point of Nathan phillips (2011) which you would like to share with the view from fellow Bromsgrovians and we Samm Thorpe (2011) School, you can contact Nikki by email: are hoping to extend the idea to other Shaun Ruwers (2012) [email protected] or universities. Virang Dal (2013) by telephoning 01527 579679 ext 365. Lauren Harrison (2013) If you’d like to help us with this Kirsty Rankin (2013) initiative, please email us at Paul Chatwin (2014) Oldbromsgrovians@bromsgrove-school. OB Music Group co.uk New Database Launched An Old Bromsgrovian Music Group has recently been formed for any former pupils who would like to take part in Bromsgrove School implemented an To try it out for yourself, please visit However, please be assured that all online portal in 2007 called ‘Bromsgrovians singing and choral activities. www.bromsgrovians.com details are held securely by InTouch Connected’ (which this magazine is Software and in accordance with the actually named after), which was made If you cannot remember your existing Data Protection Act 1998. Please note If you’d like to join in or be part of the available for all Old Bromsgrovians, user details, please click on the that core data (which is in the public congregation at any of their future Former Parents and Friends of the ‘Password Reminder’ link on the domain and consists of your name, date events, please email the School’s School, and since then membership of homepage and follow the instructions. of birth - if we have it, your start/end Director of Music, James McKelvey at the site has more than doubled. dates and your House) is [email protected] or Once you have logged in, please click automatically made available to alumni. telephone the Music School on 01527 The Class of 2015 Bromsgrovian 2015 Since May 2015, the site has undergone ‘Your Profile’ at the top of the webpage. Additional data is only searchable if you 579679 Ext 235/703. a re-launch process and we are This will then allow you to view what agree to disclose it yourself. delighted to let our members know that information we have stored for you, and We were delighted to welcome the All 2015 leavers automatically receive it is now ready to use again. it will allow you to update any of the To search for friends and other OBs, The Music School would also like to Class of 2015 officially as Old a hard copy of The Bromsgrovian. details should it be out of date. You can click the ‘Your Profile’ link and then inform you that copies of their Advent Bromsgrovians at the end of the There will be a small print run - if you We hope that it will be user-friendly and also choose, if you wish, to ‘disclose’ the ‘Find Friends’ at the top. You can search to Christmas CD, which was recorded Summer term. do not have access to the internet in more comprehensive than before. data to all members so that they can by surname, year end, House or in the Memorial Chapel last year, are order to download a copy and you search for and contact you directly. country. still available to purchase for the festive We hope to see the 2015 Leavers at require a printed edition, please The site will allow you to update your season ahead. Priced at £10, orders our OB events and wish them every contact the Editor, Megan Griffiths: own data and find friends. There is also The Alumni Committee hopes that you a calendar to keep you updated on the enjoy visiting the new look site. If you can be taken by telephone or emailing success for the future. 01527 579679 or write to her at the [email protected] latest Alumni events and general news have any feedback or issues logging on, School. All OBs who have previously and history about the School. please contact us. requested a copy will receive one. 70 years ago...
70 years ago, Bromsgrove welcomed residents from Llanwrtyd Wells - the town the School called home during the Second World War.
In this photograph, the Headmaster D.J. Walters is shown with guests in front of Kyteless. the Inside Story An Indepth Look at What Our Old Bromsgrovians Have Achieved. Stephen Page (Lupton 78-83) will become our Seventh annual lecture speaker in March 2016. We caught up with him ahead of the Foundation Lecture to find out more about his time at Bromsgrove and what he has learned in his career to date...
What are your abiding memories of your school days? My memories of Bromsgrove feel remarkably outdoor. The grounds of both the Junior and Senior School gave And what did you do after leaving a great sense of escape and safety at Bromsgrove? the same time. When indoors some of I went to study Law at the University of the classrooms stick with me, especially Hong Kong. In my first year, I took part Teddy Taylor’s maths classroom which in a drama competition and won the had a print of Picasso’s Child with a Best Director Award. I also wrote and Dove on the wall. I stared at it in every directed more than 10 theatre lesson until one day he asked the class productions during my time there. what we thought of it. We discussed it I liked sport but was increasingly name in literary publishing other than and then moved back to maths, never My first job was organising jewellery mentioning it again. incompetent as I got older. Once I had Penguin, the publisher of great poets a clash between playing in the County such as T.S. Eliot and Seamus Heaney, exhibitions in Malaysia and Barcelona, Youth Orchestra and a hockey match. novelists such as Kazuo Ishiguro, and I was a management trainee in a I studied history and politics with listed company. But the lure of Law Patrick Walsh-Atkins (Bolshi Walshy), The teacher told me that one day I William Golding and P.D. James, and would have to chose between music dramatists including Alan Bennett, Tom was too much and I went to London to an inspirational teacher who set me complete a diploma in that very subject on my path towards studying history and hockey. I did. Stoppard and Harold Pinter. I’m proud to lead a company with such a history, - and a few years ago, I qualified as a and being politically-engaged. My practising barrister. other inspiration was Paul Hands, a And after Bromsgrove? and to try to live up to a reputation that gentle but fiery man who taught English I went on to study History at Bristol has a mythic quality. In some ways the University, and also continued to play defining moments of any career are I currently undertake a variety of Literature and Drama, and directed the criminal, civil and family cases. Work is school plays. On a trip to see King Lear I music in a rock band. On leaving the first steps - getting in - but without University I moved to London with doubt the day that I walked into the always exciting and I really enjoy what I sat next to him. He didn’t return for the do. I can find myself having a last act so I presumed he thought it was the band, a Sherpa, and a soon to be Faber building to meet Seamus Heaney Katy Chung tarnished optimism about rock ‘n’ roll as the most senior writer, was a moment conference about child custody in the awful, but when I found him afterwards (Mary Windsor 98-03) is a practising barrister in Hong Kong. Here morning, another client being charged he said that he simply couldn’t bear fame. Luckily we didn’t live on our when I pinched myself and knew that earnings through music and I got a something quite unimaginably fortunate she tells us about her time at Bromsgrove. with burglary at lunch time and another to witness the end of the play. I was client suffering from breaches of very affected by the power of the play job in a bookshop in Croydon to pay had happened somewhere along the What do you remember about your What’s your favourite memory of commercial contract in the afternoon. It on him, an adult and my teacher. The the bills, and soon realised my true way. time at Bromsgrove? School? is the diversity I enjoy. seeds of my love of literature were in vocation. I have lots of fond memories. The It has to be the House Song part sown by him. What advice would you give to young So, your job in the bookshop OBs starting out in their careers? majority of my teenager years were at Competition. I remember the whole What advice would you give to current Bromsgrove. House walking to Routh Hall at night pupils at Bromsgrove? Thinking back, what was life like at effectively kick started your career in Simple, really. Be yourself, be open, to practice our singing. Even now, I still Just like anything in life, when you are Bromsgrove in the 70s and 80s? publishing? take each step as it comes and don’t I remember getting bread and milk for follow the competition on YouTube. at School, you always dream of the day As the son of a teacher and then I loved being surrounded by books but think about money till you have real the whole House, being on roster duty when you can fly the nest. But looking Junior School headmaster, Jim Page, wasn’t a born retailer, so made my way responsibilities. On leaving Bromsgrove, to give wake up calls for everyone in Another favourite memory is reading the back, you just wish those days could be I spent most of my term-time life at into publishing via jobs at Longman I had no idea what publishing was, what the House, the Lower Fourth Camp, scripts from my English Literature class. experienced again. My advice is to School, so food played a major part. and Transworld. In 1994 I ended up at marketing was, nor what kind of life the CCF, GCSE Drama, Horseriding on Each of us played a role and we acted enjoy every minute, participate in School dinners were distinct. Everyone 4th Estate, an irreverent independent I wanted to lead. But I did know that Wednesdays, community service at it out. The Inspector Calls and Of Mice as many activities as you can, make knew what they didn’t like - powdered publisher, where I spent six wonderful to achieve anything you need to work Chadsgrove School, my Art pieces in the and Men are still my favourite plays friends with people from different scrambled egg, tapioca - but I have years. In 2000 the business was bought hard, be useful and open-minded, and Art Department and the sweet and sour today. countries, try to understand the subject better memories of lasagne and chips, by HarperCollins and, after 18 months grab your chances with both hands there, I moved to be Chief Executive of when they come. That proved true in ribs from the dining hall! you have chosen and lastly, be grateful spotted dick and custard, chicken curry as a Bromsgrovian. and various savoury pies. Faber & Faber, perhaps the greatest spades. Obituaries OLD BROMSGROVIANS WHO HAVE PASSED AWAY IN 2014/15.
Nicholas Esson (S 64-69) made him a pivotal part of the However, his greatest success was Rev. Courtney Atkin Andrew Gillies (Ly 77-82) Bromsgrove School Debating team. founding Combined Academic Publish- d. 20th February 2015 In 1968 he and fellow Bromsgrovian ers in 1998 – representing and distrib- (Academic Staff 59-64) d. 22nd September 2015 Martin Bennett entered and won The uting Northern American University d. 21st October 2015 Eulogy - as read by John Williams at Observer Schools’ Mace competition, presses in Europe, the Middle East and Andrew Gillies, or Andy as he was known, Nicholas Esson’s memorial service which was and still is, the annual Africa. What started in one room quickly passed away peacefully on 22nd Rev Atkin taught at Bromsgrove School, debating tournament for secondary developed into a lively business, with September 2015. His funeral was held and in Cobham House, from 1959 until We have all been touched by Nick’s schools in England, Ireland Scotland offices in Chesham and a loyal and at Oxford Crematorium on 8th October, 1964. He died on 21st October ten days magnanimous spirit, his generous and Wales. enthusiastic staff. He sold the business and afterwards at the Shillingford Bridge short of his 96th birthday. nature, and his ‘get on with it’ and ‘have to Julia Monk and David Pickering in Hotel. Andy was a talented computer a go’ approach to life. So with sadness He went to the National Finals in 2012, but remained Chairman - still programmer and had a successful A Service of Thanksgiving for a full life, but with great pride, I pay the tribute of London and won the cup, outwitting providing the company with his wisdom career as a consultant for various well-lived, was held at the Parish Church us all to him. He enriched everyone who Eton, Harrow and Marlborough in the and experience. companies, most recently and most of St Michael and All Angels, Ledbury, came into his life. process. Bromsgrove School was cock a enjoyably at Taylor & Francis, an Herefordshire on 30th October. Khun Thiti Pawakranond hoop at his win. Yet he was modest and Nick recently enrolled on a MA course international academic publisher based Nick was born on April 17th 1951 in humble about the impressive at Birkbeck College studying Classical in Oxfordshire. (Chairman of BIST) The family received wonderful letters from Derna, Libya. His globetrotting victory. I never once heard him brag Civilization - throwing himself into former colleagues and pupils of d. 28th August 2015 exploring nature was launched from a about anything. He wasn’t that kind of seminar discussions with his usual Andy enjoyed many sporting sucesses, Bromsgrove School. It has meant so much. very early age! He was son of Joan and person. Even then his infectious and enthusiasm, and often continuing the including road cycling with the It was with great sadness that the staff Denis Esson and the second of four fabulous laugh brushed off any moral debate afterwards. He shared his love - Hilary Atkinson Hounslow District Wheelers and rowing and Governors of Bromsgrove School brothers. Denis was a Major in the Royal high ground. But as many of you here for ancient history with his daughter with Staines Boat Club. learned of the passing of Khun Thiti, Engineers and later became a lecturer at will remember, it was very hard to win Elizabeth, who also studied Classics. Chairman of Governors at Bromsgrove the University of Glasgow. He was also a an argument with Nick - such was his After Andy was diagnosed with International School Thailand (BIST). published author, and his book mental tenacity. But it was always fun Friends will remember Nick for his John Couch (S 42-47) brain cancer, he went on many We have known him as a man of great Cromwell, The Curse of The Irish must trying to do so! shrewd knowledge of the publishing excursions with friends, and vision, educational passion and ready have instilled in Nick a fascination and industry, but also for his ability to d. 14th November 2012 particularly enjoyed sailing holidays. He humour and hospitality; his loss is interest in the publishing world. He began his working life in 1972 as a engage on any subject - from military (Editor’s Note: We have only just been leaves behind his sister Catherine, his keenly felt. sales representative with the history to progressive politics, to informed of Mr Couch’s death) niece Emma, and father Christopher. Nick was educated at Ripley Court Prep publishing house Van Nostrand explaining the more subtle rules of Those who have visited Thailand over School in Surrey, at Bromsgrove School Reinhold. He proudly gave me one of cricket to someone who had never wit- It is with sadness that we learned of the - Anna Malkin the years have always felt the warmth of in Worcestershire, and studied Sociology the first books that he sold for the nessed the game. death of John Couch on 14th November, Khun Thiti’s welcome and been at the University of Kent in Canterbury. company. Titled The Fast Men - a book 2012. John was a prominent figure during impressed by his energy and drive. about speed bowling - Nick inscribed But Nick’s greatest pride was in his his time at Bromsgrove and played It was at Bromsgrove that he and I the inside cover to me. It reads. “Life, family. It was at Unwin Hyman in 1987 scrum-half in the School XV team. We send to his daughter, Garnjana (HH met, and we became best friends as like a fast bowler, is fast and furious. that he met his wife Clare. Family was 2012-2014) and his immediate family, we moved through the academic years, All we need do is play up, and play the always his first interest, and to Clare, After leaving School he served in Cyprus his fellow Governors and to the wider sharing studies, classes, and sports game”. And this was indeed Nick’s Elizabeth, and Patrick, he will be during his National Service years and later School community our heartfelt teams – embarking on a friendship that view on life. He was brave and always irreplaceable. He was proud of their became a successful businessman in condolences. lasted over 50 years. prepared to go for it - even if sometimes every step, and he beamed when talking Canada. John spent his later years doing the bowling was a bit too quick for ones about them. Family was the centre of what he loved best - hunting. - Peter Clague, Headmaster At Bromsgrove his sharp wit and liking. Cricket remained a passion his life. intelligence marked him out as a robust throughout his life. and quizzical student, and his sporting His warm nature emanated in prowess and love of Rugby made him Nick was also a great walker, especially everything he did. Everyone liked Nick, an exceptional wing forward for the 1st around the Chilterns with his friend and he loved gatherings of people, XV. Howard Dury, and on the long where his humor was ever present. distance trails led by David Webster. The His Rugby skills continued to be utilized Esson family will never forget their He will leave a gap, one that will never throughout his life - supporting his son holidays in The Lake District, and their get filled, but he left lots of fun and Patrick at Amersham and Chiltern great achievement in completing the wonderful memories for us all to Rugby Club, right through from the Coast to Coast walk - a journey of 192 cherish. Nick loved the people that minis to the 1st team squad. He also miles. made his world special, and he left this helped with coaching and refereeing for world knowing that he was greatly loved. several years, and organized the Colts In 1991 he co-founded UCL Press, team with his typical gusto, and own which became an innovative academic We shall all miss him. brand of practical encouragement. publisher with a wide-ranging list. His energetic mind and keen intellect - John Williams Obituaries OLD BROMSGROVIANS WHO HAVE PASSED AWAY IN 2014/15.
A. Roger Peirson (W 59-64) OBs who also passed Peter Law (G 55-58) d. 19th March 2015 d. 29th October 2015 away in 2014/15: Alan Lee (House and Dates not known) It is with great sadness that we announce Peter Arthur (W 42-47) d. 28th December 2014 the passing of Roger Peirson at the age of d. 1st July 2012 sixty-nine. With his loving wife of forty-five (Editor’s Note: We have only just been Lindsay MacDonald (neé Macmaster) years, always at his side, he lost his battle informed of Mr Arthur’s death) (Hz 85-90), d. 26th September 2015 with cancer on October 29, 2015. Guy Baker (S 57-62) David Norman MacOwan (Former Staff) Roger bravely waged a fierce six week d. 21st February 2015 d. September 2015 fight against cancer with the support of his family and friends and was immensely appreciative of everyone’s kindness. He Norman Cave-Browne-Cave (G 39-44) Albert Roy Merrington (W 43-48) leaves behind his beloved wife, Cora; his d. 12th November 2015 d. 1st December 2014 son, Garnet Peirson (Mary-Ann); daughter, Samantha Willis (Chad); grandchildren, Anthony Arthur Cheston (W 46-51) Christopher Gresley Pearson (G 42-47) Dylen and Carson Willis; sister, Carrie d. 21st February 2015 d. 30th March 2015 Bromell (Martin) and his nephews. Roger is predeceased by his father and mother, Derek Coombs (Lu 45-48) Bryan Parkes (G 48-53) Garnet and Barbara Peirson. d. 30th December 2014 d. July 2015 Roger was kind, dedicated, loving, brilliant and accomplished. He attended Lady Joan Drury (Wife of Prof Sir Roger Perry (S 36-41) Bromsgrove School and completed Michael Drury) d. 8th October 2015 d. March 2012 Business Administration at the University (Editor’s Note: We have only just been of Birmingham before coming to Canada Ann Earle (Wife of Rev Nick Earle) informed of Mr Perry’s death) in 1969. d. 9th July 2015 Theodore Pritchett (S 46-50) Roger enjoyed a successful career at Christopher Evans (House and Dates not d. April 2015 Sears Canada as a Senior Executive for known) d. 16th March 2015 twenty-nine years. Roger had a rich, John Nicks (W 35-40) fulfilling life, enjoying travel, auto d. 31st October 2014 racing and reading. He was a staple in the Mike (Thomas) Evans (W 45-50) Uxbridge community and served on the d. August 2014 Uxbridge Cottage Hospital Board. Gerald Rhodes (W 34-39) Christopher Evans (G 53-57) deceased date not known Special thanks to Dr Solow at Markham d. March 2015 Stouffville Hospital for his knowledge and Dr Peter Rhodes (W 32-37) understanding and to Southlake Cancer James Edward Grimditch (S 37-42) deceased date not known Care Center as well as Dr Jason Wong for d. 25th January 2015 opening their facility. Martin Roden (G 41-46) deceased date not known In memory of Roger, please consider a Myrtle Firminger (Former Governor) donation to the Cancer Research Society d. 19th November 2014 at www.cancerresearchsociety.ca Nevill Spencer (E 34) Michael Henry Hall (G 37-42) d. 13th February 2015 For online condolences, please visit d. 4th August 2014 www.lowandlow.ca David Edward Vickers Toney (S 49-54) Patrick Howden (W 45-50) d. 12th October 2012 - Robert Carless d. 24th January 2015 (Editor’s Note: We have only just been informed of Mr Toney’s death) Roy Kneath (E 1935-1940) d. 5th July 2013 Peter Wild (E 44-49) (Editor’s Note: We have only just been d. August 2015 informed of Mr Kneath’s death) Donor Tree The Sixth Annual Foundation Lecture
The Donor Tree, which can be found by Thank you! the stairs leading up to the Hospitality Suite is our way of formally acknowledging and expressing our appreciation for your support. Donors Foundation Charity Preview Day giving £250 and over can have a Thank you to all of our families and friends of the School for attending the bronze, silver or gold leaf engraved. Foundation Charity Preview Day at Hagley Hall and Park.
Lord and Lady Cobham very generously allowed the School to host the event in Sir Thomas Cookes the grounds of Hagley Hall, where guests were able to explore the grounds at their Legacy Society leisure and enjoy a sneak-peek into the park, which is not yet open to the public. The Sir Thomas Cookes Legacy Society acknowledges and thanks all those who have made a gift in their wills to Bromsgrove. Members are invited to an annual lunch and a new memory Sir Tim Rice, Geoff Strong (Governor), Sarndra Leversha-Clague, Peter Clague (Headmaster) board listing those who have made bequests to the School over the years Over 130 Old Bromsgrovians, Parents We are delighted to announce that the will soon be placed alongside the Donor and Friends of the School attended the Seventh Annual Foundation Lecture will Tree. annual Foundation Lecture at St Paul’s take place at The Lansdowne Club on (The Actor’s Church) in Covent Garden Thursday, 10th March 2016, with guest If anyone is interested in making a gift in in November 2014. The School was speaker Stephen Page (Lu 78-83), Chief their will to Bromsgrove, please contact delighted to welcome Sir Tim Rice as Executive of Faber & Faber. the Foundation Office: foundation@ guest speaker. bromsgrove-school.co.uk or telephone You can read more about Stephen Page 01527 579679. Sir Tim is an Academy Award, Golden in our interview with him on page 18. Globe Award, Tony Award and Grammy Award winning lyricist and librettist who Annual Legacy Lunch is perhaps best known for his collaborations with Andrew Lloyd The annual Sir Thomas Cookes Legacy Webber. We also wish to thank Geoff Society lunch took place in April 2015, Strong, Governor of Bromsgrove School and we were delighted to welcome for the connection to Sir Tim. some new faces, as well as longstanding members.
Old Bromsgrovian Stephen Page: The 2016 Foundation Lecture Speaker
If you would like to attend the next Foundation Lecture on 10th March 2016, please contact Megan Griffiths: Brian Naylor (G 43-47) and Garth Kenderdine- [email protected] Davies (S 43-47) Dick Noake (Chairman of the Foundation, E 59-64), or telephone 01527 579679 ext 366. Caroline Godsall, Geoff Godsall, Peter Clague Please include your connection to the (Headmaster), Nevil Malin (G 48-53), Clive Gummow (G 52-57) School in your response, along with the name of your partner or guest.
Mailing List
If you are not currently receiving invitations to our events, please contact James Heggett (Ly 1999-2008), Ruth Heggett, Lesley us so that we can add you to the Brookes, Sarndra Leversha-Clague circulation list. Anyone with a connection to Bromsgrove is welcome John Cutler (S 56-61), Barbara Norman, Ann Taylor, to attend. John Taylor (W 55-60), Rachel Scannell (Assistant Head and Vice-Chair of the Foundation) Donor Roll Thanking our donors for their generous support during 2014/15. (gifts received from september 2014 - september 2015) Cookes School Wendron / Wendron-Gordon Parents (cont.) David Baker (63-67) Hazeldene J Alexander (53-58) Sir David Arculus (59-64) Ms Pang John Dunstall (63-68) Joanne Gilfillan (87-92) Julian Barnes (77-82) Andrew Broadbent (63-67) Mrs Peel Ian Gibson (66-71) Caroline Merritt (89-94) Simon Bucknall (90-95) Tony Collett (55-60) Mr Pun Amy Morgan (98-03) David Buller (48-53) Ralph Duncan (46-51) Mr and Mrs Roberts Elmshurst Lucy Walmsley (89-98) Andrew Clark (47-52) Thomas Evans (45-50) Mr and Mrs Roosenboom Julian Adams (83-89) Rebecca Zakrzewski (91-01) Thomas Ellis (87-92) Neil Gaylor (58-64) Professor and Mrs Schmermund Mark Chown (81-86) William Friel (62-67) Ben Key (79-84) Ms Stevenson Hugh Furber (52-57) Lupton John Gardner (40-44) Jeff Lomax (49-54) Mr Tong Justin Golby (85-89) Richard Astbury (55-58) Charles Grundy (65-70) DSE Miller (68-73) Mr Westman David Hallchurch (42-47) David Baines (deceased, 43-49) Michael Hales (47-52) James Nailer (90-95) Mr and Mrs Weston Smith Robert Jolly (60-66) Richard Brookes (61-65, Richard Hemingway(57-62) Will Packwood (07-11) Mrs Wilson John Kirkus (50-55) School Governor) David Higgs (53-57) Tim Ridge (62-67) Mr and Mrs Yuan James Leek (57-62) Peter Byng (60-64) Ian Hodge (56-61) Tim Roberts (58-63) Tim Mitchell (46-51) Kim Daniels (60-65) Anthony Horton (55-59) Philip Root (65-69) Antony Neales (48-53) Guy Escolme (81-86) J Roy Hughes (45-50) John Taylor (55-60) Richard Noake (59-64, Mark Escolme (80-86) Benjamin Kemsley (94-99) Foundation Chairman) Carlton Douglas (83-88) Colin Kendon (76-81) Friends of the School Ian Routh (53-58) Francis Dunne (61-66) David Moore (66-71) Acorn Arable Ltd John Ruck (50-53) Paddy Firminger (42-47) Rowland Morgan (53-58) Old Bromsgrovian Lodge Simon Skelding (57-62) Kelvin Morris (76-81) Matt Neal (78-84) Lord Cobham Richard Smith (72-77) John Pratelli (59-64) Alan Powell (48-53) Sally Cross Ben Turvill (93-00) John Steveni (75-80) Christopher Price (39-44) Chris Edwards Stuart Wadsworth (58-63) Eric Walker (56-59) David Pulham (58-63) Martin Greenstreet Alexander Walsh (94-99) Gareth Walters (70-81) Richard Pyatt (72-74) Alastair Jones Topper Webb (72-73) John Pyke (53-58) Cyrille Regus MBE John Withers (51-56) Lyttelton David Roberts (53-58) James Sommerville John Boardman (57-63) John Say (39-43) Michael Whitehead Gordon Drew Bradman (98-03) Paul Snape (58-62) Mark Adams (72-77) Bill Byrne (78) William Stallard (51-56) Parents Richard Brook (45-50) Ian Elliot (74-79) Gregory Watkins (72-76) Mr Balin Paul Bryan (58) Roger Harrison (76-81) Mr and Mrs Ball Jeremy Davis (46-54) Rufus James-Moore (53-58) Thomas Cookes Mr and Mrs Bannister Robert Dowler (57-62) Siward James-Moore (49-54) Olivia Knight-Adams (91-94) Mr and Mrs Bentley Barry Dumughn (50-55) Alex McIntosh (96-04) Suzanne Middleton (95-00) Mr and Mrs Bloor John Faull (46-51) Andrew Muir (64-74) Claire Pottinger (81-89) Mr Blunt Andrew Fryer (60-64) David Reeve (50-54) Mr and Mrs Bors Clive Gummow (52-57) R Shakespear (59-64) Walters Mr Coffee and Ms Grimmett Sir Robert Hastie (43-51) Stewart Towe CBE (65-70, Richard Gard (76-81) Mr and Mrs Clegg John Illsley (62-67) Chairman of Governors) Alex Hadley (96-98) Mr and Mrs Collie Nevil Malin (48-53) David Walters (81-86) Digby, Lord Jones of Mr and Mrs Cox Peter Mountford (54-59) Adrian Yates (73-78) Birmingham Kt. (69-74) Mr Fidoe Andrew Parffrey (68-73) David Kilburn (73-78) Dr and Mrs Gredler Bryan Parkes (48-53) Mary Windsor Matthew Taylor (68-73) Mr and Mrs Gubern Raymond Sancroft-Baker (62-67) Ayesha Bell-Paris (99-06) Stephen Williams (68-73) Mrs Gurung Tony Scott (52-57) Debbie Dawes (83-89) Adam Wood (75-80) Mr and Mrs Haynes Graham Sim (69-74) Caroline Logan (91-96) Mr Hunt Anthony Spackman (44-49) Caroline Moore (87-98) Mr Hurley John Thorpe (52-57) Victoria Underwood (82-87) Mr and Dr King John Vine (51-55) Mr and Mrs Klitz Emory Winship (71-72) Oakley Mr Koller and Dr Heidland Samantha Evans (89-94) Mr and Mrs Langford Mr Lawrence and Ms Hughes Mr and Mrs Lloyd Mr and Mrs Maumi Mr May Events What’s on at bromsgrove during 2015/16 AND BEYOND.
December 2015 March 2016 June 2016
Festive Ladies’ Lunch The Seventh Annual Foundation Lecture Commemoration Concert Saturday 12th December Thursday 10th March Date TBC Venue: Hospitality Suite, Venue: The Lansdowne Club, Mayfair Venue: Routh Hall Bromsgrove School Guest Speaker: Stephen Page (OB and Time: 7pm Guest Speaker: Sally-Ann Hales QC Chief Executive of Faber & Faber) For bookings, please contact Time: 12noon - 2.30pm Time: 7.00pm-9.30pm [email protected] Places: £15 per person or telephone 01527 579679 ext 235
Mothering Sunday Service Sunday 6th March Commemoration Day February 2016 Led by Reverend Paul Hedwoth, Saturday 2nd July School Chaplain Old Bromsgrovians, families and their Donors’ Lunch Venue: Memorial Chapel guests are warmly invited to the OB Thursday 4th February All welcome Marquee on Lower Charford between Venue: Bromsgrove School 1pm and 5pm. Time: 12noon – 2.30pm Donors from the last academic year are Pop & Jazz invited to a lunch at Bromsgrove School. Tuesday 15th March All eligible Old Bromsgrovians, Parents Venue: Routh Hall September 2016 and Friends of the School will be sent Time: 7.30pm invitations in the Lent Term. For bookings, please contact 1960-1969 Leavers’ Reunion [email protected] Saturday 10th September or telephone 01527 579679 ext 235 Venue: Bromsgrove School Bromsgrove Futures & OB Networking Invitations for eligible OBs will be sent Date TBC out in early Summer Term. Time: 6.30pm April 2016 In conjunction with the careers department, we are inviting OB Ladies’ Lunch 2006 Leavers’ Reunion volunteers to ‘speed network’ with Date TBC Saturday 1st October current students about their Venue: Bromsgrove School Venue: Bromsgrove School profession. We envisage the evening Time: 12noon - 2.30pm Invitations for eligible OBs will be sent starting at 6.30pm with refreshments Places: £15 per person out in early Summer Term. and the opportunity for OBs to network. Students will arrive at 7pm, and there will be timed slots for students to The Sir Thomas Cookes Legacy To find out more about any of these circulate around the rooms. It maybe Society Lunch events, or if you have suggestions of that an OB links up with others in that Thursday 21st April your own, please email us at: profession, or you may be happy to chat Venue: Bromsgrove School Oldbromsgrovians@bromsgrove-school. with a group as an individual. Time: 12noon – 2.30pm co.uk Members of The Sir Thomas Cookes If we are inundated with offers of help, Legacy Society are invited to an annual Telephone Jenny and Megan on we may offer an additional or more lunch at Bromsgrove School. All eligible 01527 579679 ext 357/366 specialised event, focusing on different Old Bromsgrovians will be sent sectors. invitations in the Lent Term. Or contact us the good old-fashioned way:
Call My Wine Bluff Bromsgrove School Saturday 23rd April Worcester Road Venue: Dining Hall, Bromsgrove School Bromsgrove Places: £TBC Worcestershire B61 7DU
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