Epsom College, Epsom, Surrey KT17 4JQ Tel: 01372 821 234 Fax: 01372 821 237 e-mail: [email protected] www.epsomcollege.org.uk 1 20

EPSOMIAN 12 CONTENTS EPSOMIAN 2011 - 2012

HOUSE REPORTS P 3-26 HEADMASTER INTERVIEW P 59-60

MICHAELMAS LENT SUMMER P 29-58 P 61-94 P 95-132

CHORAL COMPETITION LES MISÉRABLES CCF report THE MUSIC SCHOLARS’ NETBALL HOBSON’S CHOICE CONCERTS FENCING VOLLEYBALL A LITTLE HOTEL ON THE SIDE Boys’ Hockey BOYS’ ATHLETICS ROBINSON HOUSE PLAY Football GIRLS’ ATHLETICS SENIOR Dodd Squash CRICKET RUGBY Rugby 7s ROUNDERS German Exchange Lacrosse BOYS’ TENNIS CROSS COUNTRY CAMBRIDGE TRIP GIRLS’ TENNIS GIRLS’ HOCKEY LIBRARY BASKETBALL EXTENDED PROJECT GOLF QUALIFICATION JUNIOR DODD CHAPEL NOTES YOUNG CO-OPERATIVES Ski Trips YOUNG ENTERPRISE NEW YORK DRAMA TOUR OPERATION WALLACEA SINGAPORE & AUSTRALIA TRIPS BATTLEFIELD TRIP EDINBURGH RUGBY TOUR

TARGET RIFLE P 133-135 LEAVING STAFF P 136-138 PRIZES P 139-140

Editor: Mr G.R. Watson Student Editor: Charleyº Brown

2 CARR HOUSE REPORT

With numerous additions to the House in September, Carr once again remained the largest boarding House at Epsom College, while catering for both day and boarding students. The amount of different characters, each with their own unique skills, helped to put Carr on the front foot to deliver excellent performances in all spheres of school life.

Carr made an excellent showing in the Good solo performances from the House by winning the U4 Critical Thinking Prize Choral Competition, with unquestionably placed Carr second in the solo as well as being awarded the John strong performances given in all instrumental competition. Individuals of Propert Prize. The 5th-form John Propert categories. Reams of superlatives could Carr also performed well throughout their Prize was won by Jake McGrath, who be used to describe Toni Chan’s own musical examinations, with Will also won the English Award for his year. captivating rendition of ‘Empty Chairs Goddard and Toni Chan attaining their Jake is joined by Tom Brankin-Frisby, and Empty Tables’, from Les Misérables, Grade 6 in saxophone and singing who was the recipient of the 5th-form a piece that emphasised his mastery of respectively, and Jake McGrath obtaining Biology Award. A wealth of awards was the baritone voice. Once again the a merit at Grade 8 singing. Members of won by the departing U6th. Dani partsong was well constructed and the House made many contributions to Tselentakis was awarded the U6th proved entertaining; it was also one of the drama and musical productions of Spanish Prize, while the U6th Physical the few performances in this bracket to the College throughout the year, but Education Prize was presented to Hayden actually consist of fewer than 10 people. special mentions must go to Jake Smith. Zedrick Cheung was awarded the This year’s unison, ‘Rollin’, contained McGrath for his role as Javert in this Computing Prize and Edward James won dance moves, a feat not attempted for year’s production of Les Misérables and the Electronics Award. George Lindley several years. It’s fair to say the moves to Will Goddard for his role in the musical’s and Max Dialdas were winners of the were pulled off, and the House looked instrumental section. Brande Awards. resplendent when performing knee jerks and head bobs. Sadly, and for On the academic side of life, the Carr showed strong sporting prowess unexplainable reasons, judge Bonnie intellectual skill of the House has been this year with excellent performances Langford didn’t quite view the stunning shown throughout the age groups. Nick throughout the House competitions. The performances with the same awestruck Whitehead won the M4 Mandarin Prize first major sporting event of the year was appreciation as others. Carr was omitted and Will Goddard won the M4 Music the House cross country, and Carr was from ranking in all categories. Award. Sam Flatau displayed his aptitude out in full force. In the junior competition,

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EPSOMIAN 12 even after the mishap of the first running, juniors and intermediates ran in at third Will Goddard was still able to secure first place, the seniors were just that little bit place in the rerun. Supported by the rest slower, finishing in at fifth. of the House, Carr achieved second place in the junior competition. The team Although the CCF runs throughout the effort by the juniors was matched by the year, Carr gave an exemplary effort on intermediates, who also took second AGI Day. With the entire House giving all place in their respective competition. The its effort, brilliant scores were achieved seniors didn’t do as well, only taking throughout the day. The juniors ‘worked fourth place overall, but the standout hard’ to speed through the assault performance was from Ciaran O’Duffy, course and get the winning time, and rr House who won the senior competition. A then went on to win the entire junior Ca strong teameffort from the House placed competition. Supported by efforts given Carr second overall. by the senior teams, Carr came away winning the entire competition and The House showed a lot of prowess on receiving the CCF Shield. the rugby field this year, with some superb Housemaster: results across the board. The new M4s In this year’s fractured and confusing Mr M. Day won their competition, including one Summer Term, an outstanding effort was against a strong Propert side. The senior displayed by the House throughout the House Tutors: rugby saw Carr come second to a various competitions. In tennis, Zach Mrs B. C. Day talented Fayrer team, an excellent effort Scalabrini and Nick Whitehead came Mrs F. C. Drinkall to reach the final. Combined with an third in the M4 House Tennis Competition, admirable performance from the while Seb Lim and Harry Candlish also Mr J. R. Farrelly intermediate sides, Carr finished joint first came third in the U4th Competition, Dr. H. R. Meier with Propert in the overall competition. giving Carr an overall position of second Mr A. A. Pintus in the junior competitions. This Mr J. M. Whatley Unfortunately, Carr didn’t see a huge performance was backed up by the amount of luck in this year’s House brilliant performances of Max Dialdas and Mr R. S. Willis hockey competitions, yet a number of Dan Bradshaw in the senior competition. Head of School: individual achievements were made. In a hard-fought final, lasting almost two Isaac Braithwaite was awarded the hours, played to the great credit of both Max Dialdas (Michaelmas) Woodward Cup for his hockey skills, a pairs in the wind and rain, Carr eventually George Lindley (Summer) notable achievement for new hockey won a best-of-three-set match 6–3 in the players; it is the second year in a row third set. Head of House: where a boy from Carr has won this George Lindley award. Dan Bradshaw was also awarded In athletics, key members of the House Jamie Hamill his Full Colours for his contribution to the put themselves out to do all they could College’s hockey over the years. George to win their events. In the junior ranks, Lindley won Full Colours and Matt Nolan there were solid efforts from Isaac won Half Colours. Oliver Costain Braithwaite, James Owens, Will Goddard continued to show his impressive skills and Will Hobday, with Goddard winning across the Lent Term and was awarded the 1500m with an exceptional time. an extremely influential character in the Colts Colours. Among the intermediates, Bradley House. This was matched by George Hodges and Elliot Green were both Lindley, who also did an excellent job The members of Carr House showed placed in three different events. Ciaran leading the House through the year their ability to swim in the Lent Term. The O’Duffy stole the show in the senior before becoming Head of School in the House Standards was won by Carr, and event, winning the Open Victor Ludorum Summer Term, giving Carr House the at the House swimming gala there were as well as the 800m and 1500m. As a double Head of School for the year, a rare some standout performances from Ollie House, Carr also managed to secure feat. Thanks also go to Jamie Hamill, who Bell, Vladimir Grabarnik and William second place in the Relay Cup. took on the role of Head of House for a Goldberg. This year, in the House football, very brief period, but performed to a high despite having some very skilled players, This has been a truly amazing year for the standard during his short tenure. Carr failed to perform to its full potential, boys of Carr House, who demonstrated despite some moments of jaw-dropping great commitment and enthusiasm in all Across the summer, the House undergoes brilliance from Dan Bradshaw and Max the activities they were involved in. The a huge transformation, but I remain Dialdas, in particular Dan’s goal straight House couldn’t act like this without a confident that this will not affect the from the corner kick. A particular highlight great team of leaders at the top. A big mentality of the House and we will was the Newsom Derby between Carr thank you to Mr Day, the House Tutors continue to prove our worth across the and Propert, in which 3 goals were and Silvana and her team who kept the school in the coming year. scored in the dying minutes. Although our House organised. At the same time, huge final position of fourth felt like it didn’t thanks must be said to the House William Hargrave represent our talent, there is a huge Prefects and the Heads of Houses. Max amount of hope for next year’s Carr team. Dialdas did a fantastic job as Head of In the annual House Pancake Race, the School, but it didn’t stop him from being

4 CRAWFURD HOUSE REPORT

It was a busy start to the year, respectable third place. Especially well done to Antonia Turner, second, and welcoming our new M4s into our Amber Billings, third. newly refurbished House, which By week 11, the 5th form were celebrating being back in lessons by listening to a still smelt of paint. Physics lecture involving a rock guitarist. A fair few Crawfurdians performed in the Ensembles Concert. Then a winter Steph Knight sang beautifully in the Parliament. Mufti Day was memorable, wonderland was created by Amber’s Scholars’ Concert to kick things off, while as Mrs Irvine displayed the perfect Cr Young Enterprise company for our M4s a scary trip to see Woman in Black pupil while Mrs K portrayed a slightly and U4s – the candy canes trio of Alice caused screams to echo round the more careless look for the morning. Dawson, Tilda Kendal and Imy Martin sleeping House as the playgoers bumped provided memorable outfits! into Mrs K on the staircase in the dark! All M4s were off to the theatre to see Co-ed rugby for our U6th girls wasn’t too Blood Brothers, which proved an M4s House hockey managed third and muddy for the centre supper evening as enjoyable but tiring evening. The 5th form Katie A, Annabel, Amy and Bubbles were the autumnal weather held, showing the were asked to think about their futures excellent on stage in the school play, a beautiful colours on campus for the by attending yet another series of talks. farcical French play, with Bonnie as the weekend matches. Amber and Sophie G headed to Epsom technical crew. Our seniors managed College Malaysia as fine ambassadors of third in House hockey but the U16s Soon the Choral Competition came, all the school to play some hockey. managed to win their tournament Crawfurdians sang their hearts out the following week! and were robbed with Abi Marrow getting Upon return, the winter routine took some third for her solo of ‘I want to be a Prima getting used to. Janine performed well in In a great final week before Christmas the Donna’, which she acted beautifully, the 6th-form Dodd Speaking Competition M4s enjoyed the ballet, Christmas lunch and being placed fourth for the and as the U6th started to receive some and a very successful well-planned and unison. Some very odd decisions from university offers from UCAS their last ever high-energy Christmas party – a fantastic Bonnie Langford! parents’ evening was a smooth occasion. effort was made with the costumes! The Excellent performances by Daria Milaeva, final day ended with a memorable carol Week six saw some late nights with the Wendy and Jennifer in the M4 Concert service before everyone headed off for last of the GCSE drama devised, and it before the 5th-form mocks kicked off. A the Christmas break. was an uncomfortable CCF camp for Jen cinema trip to see the new Twilight movie and Ellie P as illness struck some girls. was also squeezed in. The Lent Term started very mildly, in An early start for Genie and Elly K for their terms of weather, and immediately the sailing – no capsizing luckily! – and fun Week 10 saw Chapel Triangles draw to exams began for many in the House. was had by the M4s at various locations, a close as the annual event on the However, for the M4s there was some such as the Olympic Park, Brighton, Downs saw the M4s win overall and the excitement as they went on tours of the Imperial War Museum and Houses of U4s and 6th form coming a very Olympic Village, even if it was still a

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overall with the year groups combined we won! Well done to both of the years for their outstanding performance!

Well done to Emma, Lu Lu, India and Izzie for their incredible performance in the Merit Competition, and especially to the M4s, as they managed to get 187 merits with only 10 girls in the year.

Summer Term started with a wonderful recital by OE Elspeth Marrow, which did Crawfurd well to help everyone forget the awful weather, which meant that the first couple of weeks’ matches had to be cancelled. The one day of sunshine in the second week helped the U16s to come second Housemistress: in the House tennis with the help of Mrs. H. E. Keevil Jen, Fliss, Holly, Ellie P, Imo, Tara, Elly K and Maria. House Tutors: Mrs A. Davies The term followed on in its busy style with Miss C. Huxter a golf match, piano master class, A2 Art exams, shooting matches and a delightful Mrs E. Irvine choir recital in Chapel. Mrs Young took Mr C. Keevil the time to coach the M4s and U4s in a Mrs R. Young building site, and the U4s had their Tutor vital rounders practice ahead of the meal in town. House Competition, which saw Cr Head of School: come first in every year group, a first in Katie Patel (Lent) In week three, Amber won the Hendelah Epsom history. Waley Competition, even with a broken Head of House: finger – congrats to other Cr girls for Week four saw the U6th go on study Katie Patel participating. There were outstanding leave for the last time and the common Katie Adam performances for many of our girls in the room covered by cups of water as the solo instrumental competition, with tricks of muck-up day commenced. winners including Abi, Matilda, Sarah, Finally, the summer weather had arrived. Daria, Camilla & Imogen. In the end, we Week six saw the results of the U4 came third overall. exams, with it being a stressful wait for some, but the results overall were very Soon after half term was the annual pleasing. meant a busy few days ahead of the Pancake Race, on Shrove Tuesday, with House reunion. The reunion was a huge the pancakers all giving their very best The second half of term saw the L6th success, with the eldest participant being and the 5th-form team coming first! This return from study leave to UCAS talks, 91 and the youngest 22. Also, was followed by a very busy period in the which made most of them realise just congratulations to Bella, who won the House as everyone prepared for the how close the end of their time at Epsom mixed doubles tennis with Tom soirée. On the evening there were a few is. On top of thinking about their futures, Zielinski. technical issues, but in true Crawfurd the L6th stepped into their roles as acting style we muddled through and the Prefects and received some perception Overall, it was another great year for evening was enjoyed by everyone in training at the insights workshop with Crawfurd. We are sad to see our U6th go attendance. The theme of a black and visitor Kirsty Lewis. and wish them lots of luck for the future white hen night certainly prepared Miss and look forward to welcoming our new Huxter for her upcoming nuptials. House tennis saw the U4s come second M4s in September! to Rv, thanks go to Em C, Ellie, Ellen, Soon many in the House had all their time Steph, Cassie and Lu Lu. Then the M4s, Anna Halstead and taken up by the best musical the school captained by Jen, won overall, so well Lauren Richardson has ever seen: Les Mis! Congratulations done to all involved. Crawfurd came to Abi and Fliss for their stunning second in athletics standards, completed performances as Fantine and Cosette in PE lessons, behind Rosebery. respectively and to the rest of those Overnight camp was an exhausting affair, involved. but all came back safely and none were lost on the Downs or too damp and wet The end of term was approaching quickly, upon return. A craft event making purple with the results of House Games showing and white roses, in preparation for the that the U4 volleyball came second and Crawfurd reunion, was followed by a late- the M4 won the lacrosse. This meant that night English trip and mufti day, which

6 FAYRER HOUSE REPORT

As another glorious summer drew to a close, the boys returned to Fayrer for what promised to be another exceptional year. The tone was set for Mr Head’s fourth year as Housemaster by the success, in both A-level and GCSE examinations, achieved over the summer.

The first challenge facing the Fayrer boys However, betwixt all of the nerves and the The Lent Term continued to be one of the was the much-anticipated Choral pressure we excelled, yet again, winning most eventful terms in the school. For the Competition. But with William Entwistle, another cup for the Fayrer trophy cabinet. top three years of the school, mocks and conductor extraordinaire, in control, we Special commendations go to Nick modules ruled the mind for the first three were confident that this time we would Taffinder, who had a glorious run, finishing weeks, but once past this, and with exam claim that hitherto elusive win. With hour- first in the intermediate race, as well as fever quickly forgotten, Fayrer could long practices to fine tune our debatably Peter Small and Ali Porter, who finished concentrate again, as a House, on its angelic voices, we set out for exactly that. second and third in the senior race. sporting reputation. It all began with Harry Kersley and his However, we have to give a special mesmerising rendition of ‘Is She Not thanks to Sebastian Kuah, whose expert Perhaps the most important event in the Passing Fair’, by Edward Elgar, and was management and key training exercises College year took place on 16th February: followed by the equally outstanding coached the House to victory. the infamous Pancake Day Race. After partsong with its cantillation of ‘Feel Good Unfortunately, this luck was not to last as an epic battle between the Houses, we Inc.’, by Gorillaz. Both gained first place. we went into the Inter-house rugby; narrowly lost out on the title to Robinson, And then we came on to the main event, although valiant in performance, Fayrer although it was a heroic effort nonetheless. the crème de la crème ... the Fayrer only managed to achieve second overall, However, the same defeat can’t be said House unison. With Entwistle at the helm with the M4s and U4s coming fifth. for our audacious swimmers, who braved we boomed forth ‘The Summer of ’69’, However, it wasn’t all bad news on the the perils of the Epsom College swimming in true Fayrer style, and managed to Chuds, as, with the help of Allingham’s pool to submerge victorious, winning the clinch the Choral Competition. rapid feet and Phil ‘the power’ Glover, House Shield and the House relays. both the 5th form and the 6th form Furthermore, congratulations go to the With the hype of the Choral Competition emerged victorious. U16 swimming and the House relay still in the minds of many, we set out to teams, who both won their competitions. win our next title, the House cross Alongside all of the trophies we collected Fayrer didn’t stop its winning streak there, country. With pressure on the House to for the House, a special mention goes to the Fayrerians took to the basketball carry our unbeaten streak and the Jordan Burns, who got his Major Colours, court to sweep up yet another trophy for ‘Summer of ’69’ in many people’s minds, and William Entwistle, who achieved a the House. we made the long walk up to the downs. Headmaster’s Award for Drama.

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Fayrer

Housemaster: Mr S. J. Head

House Tutors: Mr J. Drinkall Mr J. Hartley Mr R. Johnstone Mr S. Porter As hockey is the main sport in the Lent The Summer Term crept up on many Mr N. Taylor Term, there is no surprise there were Fayrer boys, with both sunshine and Dr. S. Wade strong influences from Fayrer in A teams examinations on the horizon. throughout the school, particularly in the Unfortunately, Fayrer didn’t manage to Mr R. Wycherley 1st XI, in the form of Peter Small, Ben Roe, retain the title of athletic champions, Head of House: Hugo Coleman and others alike. With this although there were strong performances all-star team assembled, Fayrer swept up by Jordan Burns, Nick Taffinder and Hugo Coleman the hockey titles for another year. many other boys who bought home victories for the House, especially on the With the House hockey behind us, we field, with Jamie Gibbons getting first in turned our attention to AGI Day. Having the shot put. And who could forget the gone through all of the toil of the parade, infamous House cricket team that the Fayrer boys quickly turned their stormed to victory, captained by Nick attention to the AGI Day Competition and Taffinder and George Baker. put in a hard performance, winning the assault course. However, this major As the anxiety of summer grew more and success didn’t help us, and, unfortunately, more and the daunting public exams we lost out on the title to Carr, although grew closer and closer, there was a it was a bold effort nevertheless. strong sense of accomplishment among the Fayrerians about the great year we Although we might have lost the AGI Day had. However, we must also remember Competition, Fayrer was undeterred the excellent achievements in academia going into the Football Competition. With as well as sport, with George Edison great skill and finesse, Fayrer managed picking up a Biology Challenge Gold to retain the title for another year, with a Award and Bo Wen collecting the Eve special mention to Alex Hinds, who Jardine-Young Trophy. managed to captain the team to victory, as well as Sanjiv Dutt, who made some Special thanks go to Mr Head and Mr miraculous saves to keep us in the Wycherley, alongside the other House competition. Tutors, who did great work in running the House and made life easier for us, as As the Lent Term drew to a close, we look they always do. Also, special thanks must back at the great performances put in by go to Corinne, who makes sure that we the Fayrer boys, with Major Colours going all have boxers to wear in the morning, to Peter Wilkin, Phillip Cramer, Peter Small, as well as the charismatic House prefects, Hugo Coleman, Ben Roe and Ben Kirby. who made this year such a memorable In addition to these marvellous one. achievements, Jordan Burns won the Carroll Cup for rugby and George Hatfield Harry Ellison and Charlie Richards won the Crosbie Trophy for hockey.

8 FOREST HOUSE REPORT

The start of the hectic Michaelmas Term saw newly appointed Housemaster Mr Stephens thrown into the busy school schedule. The Choral Competition quickly introduced the new M4s and Mr Stephens to Forest traditions and the great House spirit Forest possesses.

Forest brought Christmas cheer to sports in the senior competition, with Robbie the College, especially in the Michaelmas hall 2 with a fantastic rendition of ‘Once MacDonald finishing tenth. In another Term with his performance in A Little Upon a Christmas Song’, by Peter Kay; Inter-house sporting competition, Melvin Hotel on the Side. however, Bonnie Langford wasn’t as Chow led Forest’s volleyball team to a appreciative of Forest’s spirited second-place finish. The Lent Term saw the start of the Inter- performance as she was of Michael house Football Competition, a competition Rossi’s boyish charm. The hotly This year Forest was strongly represented Forest has always performed well in. anticipated Forest partsong saw a in the College rugby teams. There were Melvin Chow captained a side plagued performance of The Temptations’ ‘My five Forestians representing the 1st XV: with injuries and detentions throughout Girl’. This seemed to be in the running for Jordan Harris, Jack Robinson, Matt the season. Notable performances came Choral Competition glory, but, ultimately, Rooke, Ollie Dennis and Robbie from Tim Plumbridge in defence and it was not placed. Mr Stephens promised MacDonald. Notably, Ollie Dennis stood Harry Allen in midfield. In attack, Robbie his ‘two-year plan’ would bring about in as captain towards the end of the MacDonald, Charlie Dockery and Owen success next year. season and Robbie MacDonald was Carey-Evans supplied goals when the awarded Major Colours for his House needed them most. Goalkeeper On the sporting front, the first challenge performances. In other age groups, Ollie Dennis helped to secure a win was the Inter-house Cross-country Charlie Dockery was awarded his Colts against Robinson through a headed goal Competition. Praise should go to Tom Colours. There was a great effort by all of in the last minute to ensure a third-place Egan, Ewan Plenderleith and Austin Chan the House’s representatives on the rugby finish at the end of the season. Melvin for following the correct course in the first field, with a number of notable Chow and Ollie Dennis also both running of the junior competition, but also performances by the lower teams. represented the College 1st XI football to Will Murdoch in the rerun. In the side during the Lent Term. intermediate competition, Ben Marrow, Off the sports field, Andy Wong was Alex Shishkin, Sungmin Cho and Thomas awarded the Headmaster’s Award for his In the senior house hockey, Forest again Mumby all recorded top 15 places, which contribution to music and Max Austin lost out to Fayrer, this time in the semi- pushed the House to a respectable third was re-awarded the Headmaster’s Award finals, in the junior competition Forest in this competition. Forest also came third for his extraordinary service to drama at finished fourth and impressed the umpires

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which saw Mr Hibbitt take first prize. The 5th form gave an insight into Forest through a number of news reports and, after technical problems, the L6th managed to show their funny ‘Bird Watching’ video. Last but not least, the U6th created their own music video to ‘We Like Sportz’, by The Lonely Island. Despite the many group efforts, the soirée orest once again showcased some of the best F musicians in the school, with Ryon Head singing and playing guitar, as did Jim Corbett and Alfie Aukett. Dicken Kong once again impressed on the piano, along with Ken Kong and Derek Lee. Housemaster: Hong Yu Zhao also made his mark with Mr J. F. Stephens his performance on the Chinese zither. Andy Wong performed ‘Close Every Door House Tutors: to Me’, again impressing the audience, Dr. R. Dowdeswell and special guest Mr Peter ‘Swerve’ Mr P. Gillespie Irvine came back to a Forest soirée to perform again. As has become customary, Mr P. Henson the famous Forest House tutors’ band Mr S. Hibbitt wrapped up a great show with their cover Mr T. Thomas with good organisation and commitment; of Van Morrison’s ‘Brown Eyed Girl’. The House Colours were awarded to Ben show was held together by entertaining Head of House: Marrow and Mubarak Mustapha. House hosts Jack Bainbridge and Max Austin. Ollie Dennis Colours were also awarded to Matt Thorman and Dicken Kong, who won the During the Summer Term Forest once Inter-house Badminton Competition; Matt again thrived on the sports field. Harry Thorman was also awarded Colts Colours Allen starred in the College’s 1st XI cricket for Badminton. Derek Lee gained House team, amassing over 300 runs and Many thanks must go to Yvette and her Colours due to his excellent performance winning the 1st XI Batting Salver Award. team, who work endlessly for us and in the Inter-house Table Tennis On the athletics field, a number of Forest keep the House in order. They’ll do Competition, which he won, bringing boys competed regularly, and on anything for us in the House and never home Forest’s second trophy. Forest also Founder’s Day there were good grumble or complain; we would certainly excelled in the annual Inter-house performances from Robbie MacDonald, be lost without them. The Tutors, again Pancake Race, winning the senior Harry Allen, Damola Ibrahim, Nikita Ganin this year, have created a good competition. On the hockey field, 1st XI and Ed Dennis. Matt Rooke represented atmosphere, always available for a chat representative Robbie MacDonald gained the 1st team for tennis this year and or to offer the occasional words of his second Major Colours and Charlie Robbie MacDonald was awarded Major wisdom. Their guidance and support Dockery and Harry Allen were awarded Colours for golf. This meant Robbie each year is vital. Colts Colours. gained Triple Majors over the year and was awarded the Boys’ All-round Sports Many thanks also to the Prefects (and Towards the end of the Lent Term a Award. Robbie) for their help this year, they were number of Forest boys took part in the vital in keeping up the good atmosphere school production of Les Misérables. The Leavers’ Ball marked the end of in the House, good luck to them after Ryon Head excelled in his role as Enjolras another good year in Forest. It also they leave Epsom. Finally, Mr Stephens, and Ben Marrow also did extremely well. marked the start of the summer and the after taking over from Mr Bustard he Max Austin and Ed Dennis helped behind anticipation of results’ day. When this day jumped straight into his new role the scenes on the production, which was finally came round, Forest, once again, energising and driving the House. one of the best the College has put on in proved its academic excellence. In the Although there were a number of a long time. U6th the results were great, with everyone challenges this year, Mr Stephens performing well and achieving the grades displayed his dedication to the House Once again the Forest soirée was one of required to go to their chosen universities. and pushed Forest to another great year, the highlights of the year, with In the AS levels, Dicken Kong impressed and I wish him all the best for next year. performances from every age group. with six As and Hong Yu Zhao got five I would also like to wish good luck to the From the M4s right up to the U6th, every As. At GCSE level, Forest candidates new Head of House, Ryon Head, who I year came together to produce a variety achieved a great deal of A*s – notably, know will do a great job. of videos and sketches. These included Nikita Ganin achieved nine A*s and Haran the M4s performing John Cleese’s sketch Nadesan seven A*s. Ollie Dennis on ‘How to Irritate People’ and the U4s put together ‘Forest’s Next Top Model’,

10 GRANVILLE HOUSE REPORT

Once again the new Michaelmas As usual, it was – the no longer baby faced – Henry Warne who spearheaded Term brought old and new friends Granville’s hopes for musical glory this year by tackling the solo and also being together after a long summer one of the key members of the partsong. This year, for the unison, the boys took break. The House welcomed in the competition by storm with the gutsy performance of A-ha’s timeless classic 16 new members in the U4th and ‘Take On Me’. Although this brave song was loved by the crowd, the judge had L6th forms as well as the new M4s. other thoughts, and sadly Granville wasn’t placed in the competition in any of the Naturally, their new life at Epsom categories. College quickly took over and they The next big event for the boys was the Inter-house cross country. Once again all settled in with the Granville the Granville boys made a good showing and produced some strong results for way of life. But, as soon as their both the senior and junior events. Most notable were Matt Man, Sam McConnell feet touched the ground of the and Kelvin Li, who all finished in strong positions. Following the eventful run from new environment, the M4s were the junior years, where they managed to get lost, the event was rerun and won by forgoing prep to run and to sing for Granville’s own Jamie Palmer, with many of the M4s also finishing in high positions, the upcoming cross-country and meaning that Granville finished in seventh place overall. choral competitions respectively Finally, in Michaelmas Term, there was the Inter-house Touch Rugby Competition. The seniors and Colts both suffered from early exams and finished fifth and fourth respectively. The M4s nobly finished third in a strong rugby year, but, unfortunately, the U4s suffered in the face of stiff competition and came seventh, meaning, overall, the House finished sixth.

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Granville

Salvete: Hugo Alexis, Nils Berring, Jason Chan, Boris Chiu, Thomas Jimena-Tilling, William Kibblewhite, Jamie Palmer, Dominic Soin-Stanley, Philipp Tereshin, Danila Varzar, Rhys Waskett, Jonathan Lam, The new year brought with it exams for House throughout the term that ensured Nok Arnold Poon, Ryan Lee, the 5th and 6th forms, and so the House Granville finished a respectable third Kelvin Li, Arjun Menon. no longer rang with the noise of last overall. term’s daily living. This did not, however, Valete: have an effect on the sports that took The House’s cricket remained strong, Boris Chiu, Matthew Chen, place in this short term, and Granville had with Nick Williams and James Booker Ben Crouch, Benjamin a strong presence in football, basketball both performing well and showing off Grant, Jason Jar, Sebastian and hockey. From the off, the Granville their skills for next year when they move Jennings, Jack Kibblewhite, senior football team had to fight hard into the senior years. This ambition has Andrew Lim, Matthew Man, against tough opposition such as Fayrer already been fulfilled by many members Oliver Polkey, Oliver Ramagge, – who went on to win the competition – in of the House, e.g. Oliver Ramagge, who Ben Ross, Alexander the first week. The same can be said for captained the 1st XV rugby team this the Inter-house Basketball Competition, year, and Ben Grant, who handed over Whitehead, James Williams, where Granville played Propert in the the vice-captaincy of athletics to Max Xavi Williams, Justin Wong. quarter-finals; the match was narrowly Gathercole. There are also many others Housemaster: lost by just a single point. The senior who either already are, or shortly will be, team enjoyed some success in the House playing in the College’s top teams. These Mr R. G. C. Young hockey and, after beating Forest and Carr include Ralph Haville, James Francis, and narrowly losing to Robinson, went Sam McConnell and Bogdan Stoichescu, House Tutors: on the win the Plate Competition. The who are at the top of their games in Mr L. Matthews juniors again fell to strong opposition and hockey, rugby, athletics and shooting. Mr M. Thomas finished sixth overall. These few, and many more, will be Mr T. A. Stone achieving high levels of sporting Mr R. I. Whiteley Mercifully, the Summer Term brought achievement in the years to come. some more success to the House and Mr A. J. Wilson there were some very strong As always, thanks must go to our Head of House: performances, despite it being in the dedicated team of cleaners who put up middle of the examination season. The with all of the mess that the House Oliver Ramagge juniors had a very good run in the Inter- produces. And, finally, we must say house athletics, with William Kibblewhite goodbye to Sheila from the team of and Jamie Palmer both finishing with a cleaners, who is retiring this year, we, as high score overall. The U4s and 5th a House, wish her the best and say formers both finished high up in their year, thanks for all that she has put up with but it was the senior team who dominated during her numerous years in Granville! the track and field, finishing first overall in their year. This was due to the likes of Max Gathercole Ben Grant winning numerous events, Oliver Ramagge winning javelin and Max Gathercole winning discus. It was this strong showing from the whole of the

12 HOLMAN HOUSE REPORT

The year began with mixed emotions. The boys were excited to be back and to welcome a new Tutor, Mr Jerrit, to the House. But, at the same time, we had to deal with a hugely influential year group moving on. The year kicked off to a fun start, with a paintballing trip to Delta Force, where there was some awful shooting on show as well as some heroic behaviour from the likes of Mr Watson, who was awarded the dubious honour of ‘paint magnet’.

The time for the Inter-house Choral team. Meanwhile, Charles Ashie and for most. Ed East, James Scott, Ayomide Competition soon came along and, after Adam Cresswell featured in the Colts A Fadojutimi and Bobby Aka all finished in much practice, the boys were able to line-up. Mide Ajibade and Ed East top positions in their year groups, and produce an outstanding performance in performed outstandingly for the 1st XV most boys managed to complete their all three categories. Sam Bonfield and Ed was awarded Major Colours as races. The term ended in true Holmaniac performed a heart-warming version of well as an award for the most improved fashion with a trip to Hampton Court for Fyfe Dangerfield’s ‘She’s Always a player. Although we had several 1st-side some ice-skating. It was good fun, Woman’, which placed third, but sounded players in the senior end, we were unable especially the challenge set by Mr Holiday like a worthy winner. Our partsong was a to perform to expectations in the senior to get a particular lady’s number; Ryan barbershop version of ‘Uptown Girl’ and Inter-house touch rugby. However, the Notman-Watt was the man for the job, our unison was ‘The Flood’, which many U4s made up for it with an unbeaten run getting his prize as promised. Safe to say, of the audience described as a disciplined throughout their competition, not thanks he will always be a legend in our eyes for performance with a strong sound. to any particular outstanding player, but that achievement. Although we felt a little harshly done by because of their incredible teamwork and the judge, the commitment from the boys dedication. The M4s also showed good After a refreshing Christmas holiday, the could not be faulted. potential in the competition and will be a boys were back – a crucial term for the force to reckon with next year. 6th formers who had external exams and, Holman, once again, had several boys also, a highly anticipated term for the representing top rugby teams this year, As the Inter-house cross country hockey and football enthusiasts. Holman with Ben Hamill, Tife Ajibade and Vincent approached, there was a lot of hard work once again had outstanding boys in both Chow all playing for the Junior Colts A and training every night, which paid off sports, with Bobby Aka as the captain of

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Holiday seemed to know all the music, and even some of the dance moves. The next morning was relaxed, we all had a lie-in and had a breakfast buffet set up in the House games room. The U6th showed their appreciation for Mr Holiday’s efforts in making Holman such a happy family, and awarded him with a Holman FC team shirt, a gift that can’t be bought, only earned, and he earned it!

The Summer Term kicked off to a swift Holman start, with most year groups in exam mode; however, exams didn’t stop the boys from remaining highly competitive in sports. The junior athletics was particularly successful, with excellent Salvete: performances by Babu Ocan, Won Suk Nikolai Beloussov, Thomas Lee, Edafe Sowole-James and Bobby Byers, Oscar Cannon, Adam Aka. Bobby, Babu and Edafe all made it Causer, Matthew Cheng, to Surrey County Championships, with John Lee, Jacky Liu, Sean Babu coming second in long jump and Edafe and Bobby coming second and MacKenzie, Joshua Paulson, fourth in the triple jump respectively. Tife Nicholas Phizackerley (M4); Ajibade was also an outstanding A-stream Rahim Bayramli, Herman the U14 As hockey and Babu Ocan and athlete. At the senior end, Mide Ajibade Choi, Nikita Lazarenko (L6th) Won Suk Lee in the U14 A team. The and Adam Cresswell both proved what football 1st side was flooded with excellent sportsmen they are, consistently Valete: Holmanites: Matt Taylor and Ed East were representing the A streams for their years Jamie Akinlade, Henry Awin, consistently in the 1st XI, while Jamie in both running and jumping events. Sam Bonfield, Oliver Clark, Hanley, Ayomide Fadojutimi, Will Ward Ed East, Ayomide Fadojutimi, and Tayo Adeoye were 2nd XI players, Another success of the Summer Term Jamie Hanley, Charlie Piper, but all played several matches for the 1st was the Inter-house Tennis Competition. Alex Ramsey, Nicholas Reid, XI. With so many top footballers, the The results were impressive all round, James Scott, Matthew Taylor, Holman FC team was set up ready for with Greg Pasenov and Ralph Skan Will Ward (U6th); Tom Harvey the highly competitive House football. coming third at their end and Vincent (L6th) Although the team looked great in the Chow and Ben Mendelowitz coming first. new kit, the football quality wasn’t exactly The seniors didn’t disappoint either, with Housemaster: the same, and we just about managed the duo of Alex Ramsey (school no. 1) to avoid the wooden spoon, finishing and Sam Bonfield (1st team) competing Mr C. I. Holiday ahead of Robinson. Special mentions fiercely till the end, but finally succumbing House Tutors: must go to Tayo Adeoye ‘the engine’ in to the Carr duo. They did enough to get the middle and Matthew Taylor, who Holman first position overall, however. Miss K. Chandley scored the goal of the tournament, an Meanwhile, Henry Awin won Major Mr B. S. H. Jerrit elegant bikey, in a tough match against Colours for shooting and, along with Mr P. M. Shephard Granville. Will Ward also impressed the Rahul Ganguly, the House Cup. Mr G. R. Watson spectators with some long-range Mr D. A. Wilkinson screamers, which threatened even the This was truly a success for Holman best goalies. House. The year ended on a high for the Head of House: Holman leavers, with a game of charades The Lent Term brought about a highly with Mr Holiday that ran long into the Ayomide Fadojutimi successful soirée, with great night, when we reflected on the good performances from the likes of Edafe times we shared and realised how big a Sowole-James, with a charismatic part of our lives we were moving on from. performance on the saxophone, and Matt I would truly like to thank Mr Holiday and Pollard on the drums. Oli Clark stole the the Tutor team from the bottom of my show with two great productions: one, a heart for all their help and encouragement. remake of The Apprentice, where the Special thanks must also go to Pat and L6th formers competed to impress the her team in the House. I wish Oliver Fox bosses with their leadership skills. and the Prefect team good luck as they run the House, and all the best to all the The Lent Term ended in a special way, leavers as they embark on their journeys with another fantastic House trip to the through life! musical Jersey Boys, in London. It was a new experience for most, but Mr Ayomide Fadojutimi

14 PROPERT HOUSE REPORT

The start of the Michaelmas Term great achievement considering the amount of training all the boarding is always a full-on time of year Houses undergo. as the boys try to get used to the The Lent Term brought with it a Propert House trip to see the musical Thriller in academics of school life again after the West End. This was preferred to doing a House soirée, which has taken a long summer break. In addition place in previous years, which simply could not be fitted in this year. It was a a batch of nervous faces arrived very enjoyable evening, with some enjoying it slightly more than others … in Propert in the shape of the new Alistair ‘Tank’ Robinson. M4s, eager to adapt to College life. We were well represented this term in theatrical aspects of the College, notably Bradley Fenn and Connor Findlay on their work in the production of Les Misérables, It didn’t take long before the House was lost in tuning and timing you made up for in which Bradley’s performance was surrounded by the anticipation that came in the energy and volume.” In other described as “captivating” by a source. with the House Choral Competition. It words: we couldn’t sing, but we tried. was the first major House event on the We saw further success this term on the school calendar and we were determined Following our Choral Competition sports field. Placing second in the junior to ensure our unrecognised talent was performance we soon learned where our and senior hockey as well another second duly noted. Particular congratulations to strengths lied, as we seemed to excel on in the senior House football – Alex Aves Ed Boughton for an outstanding solo the sports field. We were placed first as top goal scorer with 6 goals from four performance, which the adjudicator overall in the House Rugby Competition, games, a great record. We took the spoils described as: “A very difficult piece well with all years putting in strong in the Inter-house swimming, where we sung.” Our partsong was a ‘mash up’ of performances, notably Will Onslow-Wyld won all three age groups, topped off by four songs, starting with ‘LoveStoned’, showing blistering pace to score a last- winning the relay cups – with Nick Long by Justin Timberlake, and closing with minute try in the M4s final match. The first in the U14 freestyle and backstroke, ‘My Humps’, by the Black Eyed Peas. M4s as a whole did exceptionally well, Morgan Savill first in the U15 individual The collaboration was credit to Luke which was no surprise as we had so medley and Charlie Twyman winning the Oldershaw and was described as a “great many players in Propert who were heavily open backstroke. Specific congratulations mix”. Finally came the unison, in which involved in the undefeated season that must go to the likes of Ben Kuhler, who we sang ‘Man in the Mirror’, by Michael the U14 As undertook. There were also was crowned senior squash Player of the Jackson, and, as expected by now in strong performances in the Inter-house Year, and Olli Weir, on his Player of the Propert, we failed to place. The cross country, with the juniors placing first Season Award in the 1st XI football team, adjudicator’s comments were: “What you and the seniors second, which was a a questionable decision.

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Propert

Housemaster: Mr A. Wolstenholme

House Tutors: Mr C. Bowen Mr R. D. B. Burgess Dr. A. W. Hughes Mr B. G. MacDowel Mr M. Zacharias

Head of House: Alex Aves

up the Chemistry Prize and Charlie Twyman won two awards, the Mathematics Prize and Norman Rice Economics Prize. These prizes meant that Tom and Charlie won the U6th John Propert Award for academic excellence. Edward Aves also won an M4 John Propert award.

Overall, the running of the House this The last part of the Lent Term was almost won the high jump (Kieran) and the year has been smooth, and thanks must finished off in style in the ‘Great Egg hammer throw (Connor) and Luke go to Mr Wolstenholme and his team of Race’. The juniors put us in a great Oldershaw achieved a respectable House Tutors in keeping the boys in position with a win in the first race; second in the senior high jump (Luke check and helping to ‘guide’ them in the however, had it not been for a followed this by finally achieving his right directions, even through the most disqualification in the intermediate team Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award after difficult of situations. The end of the year we could have been onto something. three failed attempts, topping off his has also brought a few farewells that Nevertheless, it was a solid term all round year). have to be said. First, to Mr Bowen, who from Propert. leaves us to join Forest in order to Callum Watson took the lead role in the experience life as a boarding House When the tense, exam-filled Summer junior school play of Hobson’s Choice, Tutor; and also a big farewell and good Term finally came, Propertians proved where he gave an enticing performance luck must be said to Mr Burgess, who is themselves in all fields. We started strong as a Salford-based, alcoholic, about to start a six-month tour of duty in early on in the House Athletics, just like ‘shoemaker’ and proved himself as a Afghanistan. Finally, I would just like to in the swimming, finding ourselves placed young actor by taking to a difficult role far thank everybody involved in Propert who first in the M4s,U 4s, seniors and the easier than most. has helped to maintain an enjoyable Charles Taylor Relay Cup competitions. atmosphere within the House throughout We took this high standard of Athletics Academic success in the House has the year, and I wish the U6th the best of from inter-school to inter-county always been strong, and this was shown luck for the years to come. competition, where Propert House turned on prize-giving day when Propertians out in force at the Surrey County picked up an array of awards, particularly Alex Aves Championships. The Findlay Brothers in the U6th, where Tom Williams picked

16 RAVEN HOUSE REPORT

Having returned from a long, refreshing summer, the Raven girls returned to Epsom College in high spirits, ready to tackle the challenges of the year ahead.

Polly Norkett, the newly appointed Head well equipped for the success to come. with Polly even being given a of House, and the rest of the House Both Sophie Rumble and Tilly Alexis were Headmaster’s Award! Prefects started the term with a keen triumphant in their races, finishing in first attitude and immense enthusiasm, place. The overall intermediate girls’ race Soon enough, it was January, which welcoming the new M4s by launching was won by Raven; it was an amazing brought the Raven soirée along with it. them straight into preparation for the win for the Raveners, and everyone As per usual, this was an exceptional annual Choral Competition. Determined returned to the House to be treated with evening, with fantastic acts from every to uphold the reputation of a preppy, delicious doughnuts. year group. The Bollywood-themed sharp-actioned and smiley unison, the evening was kicked off by a spectacular U6th got to work. Led by Annie Bowes, At the end of the Michaelmas Term, Claire dance from the U6th, the U4s shared the girls began to rehearse vigorously. Russell, Emma Dickinson, Rachel Hindley, their hilarious adaptation of the TV show Hannah Crawley, Sophie Mack, Tilly Take Me Out and the L6th’s ‘Granny Unfortunately, despite the huge smiles, Alexis, Molly Frazer and Bella all collected Sketch’ held the audience in stitches, pretty bows and slick actions, Raven’s U15 A county medals. The whole year with their somewhat unique costumes choral efforts went unnoticed. Gabby group was rewarded for their great and fantastic dance to ‘Single Ladies’. Watts was robbed of a place in the solo achievements by being awarded House The evening was hugely enjoyable and competition after a wonderful rendition of Colours at the end of the term. Not only left everyone grinning with sheer ‘Run’, which brought tears to many eyes is this impressive in itself, but the Raven happiness. Lauren Higgs and Alex Smith of the audience. The unison, ‘Accidentally girls alone made up over half of the team were both awarded House Colours for in Love’, and the partsong, ‘Something – good effort girls! Along with this, the their organisation of the evening, and Inside So Strong’, were not placed, senior girls’ Inter-house hockey was won Katie Scott also received them for her despite the “crisp, clean-cut actions”. by Raven, for the first time since 2005, amazing technical work on the night, we and the Mortimer Cup was collected by couldn’t have done it without her. Not long after the Choral Competition, Eliza Melville. the daunting thought of the cross country The enthusiasm continued throughout began to arise. Despite the glum, cold Polly Norkett, Jade Butcher and Missy the term, especially when it came to the and drizzly weather, the Raven girls Dipre gave fantastic performances in the Inter-house Pancake Race. This event is overcame the fear of exercise and made production of ‘A Little Hotel on the Side’ highlighted as a matter of great their way up to the Epsom Downs. With in December. This farcical comedy was importance in the Raven calendar, and, rave paint on their faces and a range of both extremely well directed and the girls as per usual, the Raven girls approached headbands secured, the Raven army was made hilarious contributions to the piece, it with a keen attitude. Navy & maroon

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Raven

Housemistress: Mrs P. Woolmer Mr C. J. Baverstock (in the absence of Mrs Woolmer)

House Tutors: Mrs R. Doyle Miss B. Gardener Miss C. Lovett shirts could be seen on the Wilson pitch while we also won the Badminton Dr. V. Patel as they began stretching at least half an Competition, proving our sporting Miss A. Wickham hour before the races took place, eager excellence. to be limbered up for the big event. It Netball has always been a strength for Head of House: turned out to be a hugely enjoyable and the House, as shown in the results from Polly Norkett successful day, as per usual, for Raven the Lent Term! Raven won both the junior House. and senior Inter-house competitions and, in addition, both Becky Saunders and One of the most legendary plays in the Margaux Monfared were awarded history of Epsom – Les Misérables – took Individual Cups. All team members were place this term. Lara Treherne, Hanna awarded House Colours, and special We would like to say a BIG thank you to Taylor and many other Raven girls must congratulations were offered to Zoe Mr Baverstock for being the best be credited for their roles in the Sciver and Lauren Higgs when they were Housemistress that a man could be! Not production. They were supported both awarded Major Colours for their a day went by without a smile on his face, throughout the whole House, as noticed fantastic endeavours on the netball and while Mrs Woolmer was away looking by many other audience members, by court. after her gorgeous new-born son Ollie, hooting and loud cheers, which echoed the Raven girls could not have been throughout Big School. Further success came at the end of the prouder to be looked after by Mr term with the Raven girls proving their Baverstock, who kept us girls in order Unsurprisingly, Sean McGrath made an academic excellence. Tilly Alexis, Hannah and suited the role fantastically well! outstanding achievement in the House Crawley, Emma Dickinson and Hannah Thank you sir! swimming gala. Her sporting prowess led Taylor were all awarded merit certificates, her to break the College records for both taking up four of the six certificates Marisa Dipre the individual medley and for the 100m awarded. – an amazing day for Raven, we were all extremely proud! The juniors also proved The Summer Term was a somewhat quiet their fish-like qualities by winning the affair. With the 5th form and 6th form overall competition and collecting the away on study leave for the majority of U14’s Cup – well done girls! the time, the M4s and U4s were left with the school to themselves, no doubt Polly and her U6th team confidently led running up havoc in the corridors. When Raven House to victory in the AGI Day the year came to a close, everyone was Drill Competition. It was a fantastic day ecstatic, knowing that they had done and resulted in us winning the Senior themselves proud in sport and academia Trophy and the Drill Cup for both the and co-curricular activities. The Raven juniors and seniors. Clare McCallum girls were ready to reward themselves echoed this victory by winning the Table with a long break and time to recoup for Tennis Competition, to the surprise and the coming school year. delight of the other House members,

18 ROBINSON HOUSE REPORT

Once again it was time to trudge slowly back to Epsom College, but we were determined that this year would be different...

For starters, we were about to embark individual managed to send the runners In my opinion, the highlight of the year on the first House play in five years and the wrong way, and they were pretty was the House play. I’ve never seen so perform one of the most ambitious Choral much halfway to the coast before they much teamwork and House spirit at Competition entries ever attempted, all were finally stopped. Again Giles did well, Epsom, and it was touching to see that in the first couple of months. It was going coming third, although the race had to The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui was such to be a busy year, but we were optimistic be rerun. The senior race was less a success. There are so many people to that it would be a great year too. impressive, but at least we didn’t come mention (too many), but there were last! standout performances by Jasper The term’s first main event was the ever- Kabbani (incredible considering he had entertaining Inter-house Touch Rugby One of the hardest jobs all year is trying been at the school for one day before Competition. After consistent success for to choose the songs for the House Choral rehearsals started) and the ridiculous, but the 5th formers, surely this would again Competition. Eventually we settled on hilarious, Alex Hogarth. Rupert Moreton be their year to claim a mighty win. But Queen’s ‘Somebody to Love’; the and his team of backstage elves were no, it slipped through their fingers, leaving partsong followed on the Queen theme great, as were the tech team. David them runners-up after a controversial loss with ‘Fat Bottomed Girls’. Honourable Boote makes a disturbingly good woman in the final – so much for the addition of mention should go to Tom Williamson for (next time, shave your legs) and Jake Cian Barry. The U4s came a pretty decent his lead part, and dishonourable mentions Seabold makes a disturbingly good third overall, which is much to their credit. should go to Patrick Lewis, David Boote, homosexual Nazi. We all felt for Jack As for the M4s, well, they tried very hard, Michael Rossi, Alex Oxley and Jack Shephard, who seemed to die in every especially Giles Baker. The top Robinson Harrison for disgraceful dancing. With scene. The lead roles were performed try scorer was that rugby superstar two Queen songs already chosen, the marvellously, backed up well by Morgan Rupert Moreton. logical choice for the solo performance Bowen-Perkins, Stodhart and Mama. The was clearly another Queen number, so show was a great success, and a final Next came the Inter-house cross country. Rossi sang ‘Home’, by Michael Bublé, mention must go to the tireless work of This is probably the most hated event the instead. He used his ‘silky’ performance Mr Conway, the Tutors and, above all, Ms House competes in. Each year the to charm his way to a very impressive Chandley, who brought the whole thing number of colds, foot injuries and ‘shin second place, while the unison won its together as director and honorary splints’ mysteriously surges in the week category! Overall, we came second for member of Robinson. leading up to the run. Special mentions the second year running, which is very should go out to Sean Jagger, who came impressive, but to sum up in the wise The term ended with usual awards and third in his age group, Luke Butcher and words of Mr Payne: “Well done boys, achievements, a good ‘haul’ this year, but Max Wildenburg, who also placed highly. robbed of the win again.” a special mention goes to David Boote, In the junior race, an undisclosed Robinson’s resident golfing celebrity, who

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Max Wildenberg. The other great extracurricular event of the Summer Term was the junior play, this year Hobson’s Choice. Again Max Wildenberg flexed his acting muscles, with Aidan Smith also acting solidly.

The Summer Term also saw the conclusion of the Robinson vs Propert debates. Throughout the year, three members of each year group volunteered (drew short straws) to debate against the Robinson very keen Propert House. The U6th narrowly lost out due to a militant Seifert and his mountain of research, although credit must go to the ease and skill at which the Robinson team adjusted the Housemaster: facts to fit their argument. The L6th also Mr M. C. Conway lost out, despite Jack Shephard dressing for the part. The 5th form won, with Alex House Tutors: Kersley’s immense arguing skill leading Mr P. Green the way. The U4s stormed to victory – all- Mr M. Hynd round excellence from the team. So it was 2–2 with all to play for in the M4 Mrs M. Odendaal debate. A valiant effort from the team, Mr N. Payne was awarded a scholarship to study at held together by another Kersley, this Mr D. Schofield Stanford University. time Andrew, gave us a draw, so the final score remained 2–2! Head of House: The Lent Term started with early success, Patrick Lewis with Robinson winning the solo After far too many exams, the term finally instrumental competition and the ended, in typically busy style, with the swimming gala, the latter being Robinson soirée, Founder’s Day and the dominated, as usual, by the Hogarth end of U6th A levels falling in the same family. The senior hockey team won their week. Prize-giving left us with another group and should have reached the final impressive awards haul, especially the best of luck for his role as Head of House had it not been for a physics-bending U6th, with over half the year group next year, and I know he’ll build on this save by the Granville keeper. Once again winning a prize and Lord Boote winning year’s success as Robinson gets a new sporting legend Rupert Moreton stood a national sporting award. The soirée was coat of paint. out as Man of the Tournament with his a highlight of the year and House spirit goalkeeping prowess. The juniors also reached a pinnacle. The usual mix of Sadly, we have to say goodbye to Alex performed well, reaching third place, music, sketches and a large amount of Kersley (debating powerhouse), Akshay captained well by Aidan Smith. cross-dressing was topped off by the Pancholi (footballing genius), David excellent hosts Jack Harrison, Jack Schofield and Maureen Odendaal, who The Lent Term also saw the school Shephard and Ben Mitchell with their will be sorely missed as Tutors, and, musical, this year Les Misérables, and crushingly bad jokes. Special mentions finally, the U6th form, who will be there was a wealth of Robinson talent have to go to Mr Schofield in the 5th-form dispersing to universities across the UK involved. Jack Harrison brought some sketch, Tom Williamson’s outstanding and USA. I wish everyone leaving all the manic comic relief to the show and Jake solo, Philip Fiuza’s beautiful cavatina best of luck. It’s been a privilege being Seabold blew the audience away with (proving the violin doesn’t have to sound part of Robinson House. Thanks for five what Mr Conway described as: “The best like a dying cat) and the band (despite of the best years of my life so far. male singing performance I have ever some voice problems from Michael seen at Epsom.” ‘Pavarotti’ Rossi). Patrick Lewis

We came away from AGI Day with the This has been the best year I have spent Initiative Cup and Ben Mitchell picked up at Robinson. The mix of characters, the prize for best NCO. After Easter, the friendship and informal atmosphere make summer saw the return of athletics, it like a second home for all of the boys, exams and the occasional ray of and that’s what makes it such a great sunshine. There was no athletics on place to be. I want to thank my Prefect Founder’s Day, but the competition was team for the all the support, and for held over a few weeks. Elliot King built on occasionally turning up to duties; the his other sporting achievements and Tutors for all the work they do; and, lastly, came third in all his athletics finals for the the tireless Mr Conway, who is a most House, and there were great committed and caring Housemaster at performances by Jake Seabold and Epsom College. I wish Ben Mitchell the

20 ROSEBERY HOUSE REPORT

Another year has flown by and, once again, we’re left, dazed and astounded, wondering where all the time went. Thinking back, we managed to fit our fair share (perhaps a bit more than our fair share, actually) of successes in. Typical.

This academic year launched in typical As Michaelmas Term rolled on, we saw ‘fine carving skills’. As a background to Epsom fashion (that is to say, astonishingly the legendary Choral Competition loom all of these events, we saw many of our busy and brimming with assemblies, into view. Rehearsals of our unison, L6th ship out for a day or two on EPQ deadlines, events and auditions), and us ‘Forget You’, by CeeLo Green, were library trips and university visits, while Rosebery girls took up the pace with feverish, and our partsong, ‘Rehab’ many of our girls landed parts in the relentless energy, led by our Head of (originally by Amy Winehouse, but ensemble for Les Misérables. Turns out House Rachel Mewett. The very first arranged by the cast of Glee), was heard we are a talented bunch after all! week saw our L6th thrown into their quiz ringing throughout the corridors for night (during which some of our most weeks. Relieved to not be last in the Cross country was a raging success respectable, honest members were rather running order for the third year on the once again for Rosebery; we stormed outrageously accused of cheating), as we trot, we bounced onto the stage to into first place overall among the girls’ welcomed Georgia, Louise, Amy and perform a gutsy performance that was houses once again! Our intermediate and Aoife to the fray. Also during the first week scandalously overlooked in the judging. junior girls came second, while our senior was the inaugural Rosebery bonding We soon got over this, however, during team took first place. BBQ and relay races – an afternoon of our annual pizza night. Who needs talent intense competition during which seven when you’ve got pizza? We were very Christmas delivered a much-needed teams, captained by our seven Prefects, proud, though, of Amy Symons, who break (or a chance to frantically revise for fought for confectionery prizes and made Rosebery history by placing third upcoming modules), although this wasn’t bragging rights in a series of heated relay with her beautiful rendition of ‘Think of before Secret Santa and the Room races. Chaos quickly ensued (there’s a Me’, from The Phantom of the Opera. Decorating Competition once again rallied limit to how much aggressive handling a us through the darkening days. What water balloon can take, apparently), and Our House theatre trip to see Shrek the often gets forgotten is the sheer amount our fresh batch of dewy-eyed M4s was Musical went down a storm during this of stealth and intrigue required in the introduced to what really goes down in term, as did our first Pumpkin Carving process of smuggling an A2-sized poster Rosebery. Perhaps next year we can Competition. Kudos here to Olivia and into someone’s room for them to find combine three of the challenges to create her team for their intricately creepy once they’d returned from the loo. On the mother of all relays – the three- graveyard/tree engraving and Rhiannon several occasions I encountered giggling legged-egg-and-spoon-race-in-a-sack! and Briana, who won on account of their U4s furtively hiding under desks or

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Rosebery

Housemaster: Miss K. D. Cloonan

House Tutors: Mrs J. Bathard-Smith Miss J. Bennett Miss S. Hassan Dr. I. McClure Mrs K. Symons ducking under windows, armed with Blu- were somewhat abated by Patricia, our tack and an armful of candy canes. We wonderful cleaner, and her Zumba dance, Head of House: ended the mammoth term with a which never failed to cheer us up, and by Rachel Mewett Christmas party, festive cheer and a LOT an outing for the L6th and 5th form to see of spray-on snow. Ragtime at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. Refreshed after the break, we returned to the chilly Lent Term with our usual Life carried on as normal for the juniors, gusto. The highlight of the term proved and they were seen to positively flourish. and one that was full of successes and to be our ‘Around the World-themed’ M4s Juyeon and Catrine were part of the surprises. It would be utterly remiss of me soirée. Each year group was assigned a winning team in the M4 Dodd Speaking to not mention our tireless team of tutors continent, and were encouraged to Competition, delivering a rousing speech who supported, monitored and managed theme their performances accordingly. on nudity, while Amy Bramworth’s team us as the year progressed. Dr. McClure, The 5th form showed unity and humour won the U4 competition with a plea for Miss Bennett, Mrs Bathard-Smith, Mrs with two highly entertaining performances: our parents to fix our ailing economy. Symons and Mrs Hassan worked with us one a take on the Eurovision Song constantly to maintain our reputation as Contest and the other an eccentric, but The term and the year drew to a close a House with clout, and (quite perfectly executed, Mini-Me routine. An with the L6th Leadership Day – where astonishingly) didn’t complain as we inspired rendition of the ‘Four Chord girls were challenged to create an invaded Miss Cloonan’s office every Song’ was put together by the L6th, and ‘alternative cake sale’. Given a small afternoon for a chat or a game of Phoebe astounded us all once again with budget and the run of the school for the Bananagrams. We were all sad to see her gymnastic routine, and her day, teams were sighted in Epsom buying Mrs Bathard-Smith leave us to spend unexpectedly bendy body! supplies and dressed in outlandish more time with her family, although we costumes with pink wigs (courtesy of the wish her luck in the future. Final thanks Rosebery sports stars shone during this Drama Department) trying to advertise must go to the indefatigable Miss term, what with Eimear, Roisin and their stalls. Truly embracing the Cloonan, who worked relentlessly to keep Lindsay coming second, third and fourth Apprentice-style task, Rosebery girls the rabble in line and ensure that in the Hendelah Waley Competition, and were seen pitching, promoting, pleading Rosebery was an unquestionably friendly, success in the great Pancake Race. AGI and even pulling people towards the cake welcoming place to be. Now all there is Day brought a fresh set of challenges to sale area, all in the hope of selling their to do is to wish Eimear, our new Head of deal with also. Weeks of preparation delicacies and raising money for charity House, and her team of Prefects good ensured our drill was top-notch, earning in the process. Thankfully, they left the luck in the year to come! us some well-deserved silverware on the bickering to the real Apprentice day! contestants. The afternoon raised an Sareena Blackburn unprecedented amount of money, with The advent of Summer Term brought with the final total running into the hundreds! it the dreaded exams, so numbers soon dwindled in the House as upper years This proved to be a year during which disappeared on study leave. Stress levels traditions were maintained and created,

22 WHITE HOUSE REPORT

Well, this year has been a very demanding one, one of the hardest, if not THE hardest, if you ask Mrs Winmill. A lot of patience, a sense of humour and a big sense of perspective was required sometimes to see the ‘bigger picture’, but we made it! And, in the end, how successful it turned out to be, with girls leaving the House happy, fulfilled, wiser, knowing themselves and others better, and, most of all, with great A-level results, often exceeding predictions and expectations!

At the beginning of every year, White fourth in the solo category. Already some uplifting and divine feeling ... until one falls House sees girls coming from different future Choral Competition leaders down in a giant puddle and ends up horizons and settling in comfortably. They prepared themselves for leading the way soaked, bruised and cold for the rest of all end up tougher, wiser, more confident, in the 2012 edition. the night. However, us White House girls able to analyse critically and rationally know how to cheer ourselves up, the other people’s behaviours as well as their Michaelmas Term also saw a change in pinnacle of the evening was the ‘après- own, and able to reflect on ways to come the White House tradition. The traditional skate’ event, at the Hampton Court Zizzi to the resolution of the issues at hand. termly House outing used to be to see a restaurant, where the food we had pre- This year was no different, but even more musical in the London West End, but the ordered appeared in less than 10 minutes intense than usual at times. It started with girls found this was not interactive on each and every one of our 52 plates the unavoidable Choral Competition, enough, and, after hesitating between ... bravo! The atmosphere was jovial and where we sang ‘Under the Sea’, from The go-karting and Go Ape, and making the convivial in spite of our still-wet-and-sore Little Mermaid Disney cartoon. Here, decision too late to go to Fright Night at bottoms! The rest of the term went very already, different opinions emerged as to Chessington World of Adventures (watch well indeed, with the House committee whether the choice of the song was right this space for Halloween 2012), the organising a brilliant Christmas party and or not, and we certainly practised our House committee decided to go ice- feast. debating skills making a decision to carry skating at Hampton Court. All would have on or change the selection. It was to be been absolutely brilliant if it had not been The Lent Term saw the usual academic a good one, as we ended at the top end constantly drizzling with rain: we felt like dedication that epitomises the House of the winners’ table. Harriet Smith came we were walking on water – not a bad during the January modules. January

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te Hous Whi e

Head of House: Rochelle Smith

Housemistress: Mrs C. Winmill

House Tutors: Miss H. Brabham Miss C. Creevey was also the month of the Inter-house Livermore and Sammi Lee sharing the Dr. R. Storey solo instrumental competition: eight of us races among themselves. The school Mr K. Siviter competed, playing piano, voice, drums, production of Les Misérables was Mr I. Winmill marimba and violin. Sammi Lee won the absolutely brilliant, with some of us in the orchestral percussion category getting involved backstage with stage playing ‘The Favourite: Ragtime Two- crew, make-up and costumes rather than step’, by Scott Joplin, on the marimba on stage. The end of term ended with a and Wenfei Teh won in the senior piano great Easter party, expertly organised by category playing ‘Nocturne Op.9 No.1’, the House committee: our very own cake Borthwick after 12 years of leadership: by Frédéric Chopin. baker, Jess Frise, baked up a feast with we wish them a very peaceful and her very own signature ‘pop cakes’ (as in pleasant retirement. Last but not least, We celebrated the end of the exam ‘lollipop’ cakes, i.e. in the shape of a Pat, our housekeeper, eventually decided season with our annual White House lollipop ... oh yes ... she is an expert to retire after staying five more years than soirée on Pancake Day – our ranking in indeed). Mr Winmill, who likes to think his she had to, well it IS hard to tear yourself the Pancake Race is a testimony to the Friday night duty cake is ‘to-die-for’, had away from us! She has been a mum to fact that we focused our energy on the to admit defeat. Still, anyone is welcome all the girls and has meant a lot to them, evening show rather than the competition, to see for themselves the long queue of even if two years might seem short. She as we only came fourth out of the five greedy White House girls in the boarding leaves us to look after herself as well as girls’ houses. Everybody had their House after prep time on Fridays, after her big brood of children and responsibility in the running of the show Mr Winmill has baked his traditional grandchildren – and one great- and it went beautifully well and smoothly, Victoria sponge heart-shaped cake! grandchild! and, again this year, captured the warmth of the relationships between all the girls. Too quickly did Easter come upon us, To all the White House 2012 leavers: Jamie Thompson and Hassana with the summer exams, revision and the don’t forget White House, it won’t forget Abdulsalam organised all of the acts and very short few weeks of lessons before you! the programme; Anissa Jaffery and Izzy study leave started again, the House Skrzypecka presented; Vichhuna and naturally reverted back to its studious Mrs C. Winmill Thima Neth were the props managers, state after some encouraging, or less along with Caitlin Chan and Nastia satisfying, January modules’ results were Matveeva; Emily Village controlled the published in March. All had a plan and lights; Sophie Wakefield filmed the show; stuck to it. The study leave period went and Yumi was our very own official by with all the boarders staying in the photographer. House to revise and make the most of the school’s routine. The keen L6th The swimming gala took place in the Lent sprang into action, covering the duties of Term too, and, after some last-minute the U6th Prefects, in preparation for their switches, the House finished third overall turn to be House Prefects. The year thanks to Holly Thomas, Carl Lyn Ng, ended with the traditional Leavers’ Ball Caroline Von Celsing, Cherie Lau, Cecilia and our goodbyes to Mr and Mrs

24 WILSON HOUSE REPORT

The Michaelmas Term saw Wilson welcome 10 new M4s and 2 new U4s to the House, as well as Miss Beesley to the tutoring staff.

The first main event of the year was the Player of the Season. Wilson also while Immy, Helen and Emma created Choral Competition, and rehearsals performed extremely well in school masterpieces in the gingerbread started almost as soon as we got back squash, where Wilsonians made up the decorating evening! However, it was time to school. After countless break times bulk of the school team. Notable to get serious when Halloween came spent rehearsing, Wilson once again put performances here go to Alice, Carys, around, with many members of the in three very strong performances. Astrid M and Izzy Ashe. House turning their attention to the Caoimhe gave a beautiful performance Pumpkin Carving Competition. We had of ‘The Power of Love’ in the solo, while After half term, however, cross country vomiting pumpkins and even a Bob a fantastic rendition of ‘Say a Little Prayer’ was upon us once again, and Wilsonians Marley tribute; from the many great was delivered in the partsong. The House were to be seen running Chapel Triangles entries Miss Beesley named Emile and unison of ‘Price Tag’ was both fun and in preparation. Gabby and Izzy both Alya K as the winners. stylish, and once again we were robbed, performed well in the juniors and reached coming just third in the unison! With the district finals, while special mentions As the Christmas holidays approached, Caoimhe conducting the unison, Camilla go to Caoimhe and Maddie – the only Wilson House was transformed by the organising the part-song and Clare W on ones to have run cross country every year presence of Secret Santa, with everyone the piano, the House put on a great since M4! trying to pin up posters and leave show. As is tradition, we celebrated our presents without being seen. This was hard work with a well-earned pizza On a different note (excuse the pun!), followed by the annual Christmas party; night! Wilson girls displayed their musical talents two highlights here must include Caoimhe on a number of occasions, with Izzy, Kelly and Alice’s attempt at the ‘Crazy Yoghurt Throughout Michaelmas members of the and Rachel performing in the M4 Concert Game’ and Katie’s wildly exciting dance House participated in numerous sports and Camilla, Clare and Helen in the Music solo! Such a fun evening was a great way events. The House showed great team Scholars’ Concert. Camilla, Becky and to round off such a successful term for spirit during the Inter-house hockey, while Clare also performed in the Down Wilson and end the calendar year on a Colts Colours were awarded to Dani, Singers’ Concert and Clare and Amelia high. Emily and Izzy and Half Colours to Tiff in the Orchestra Concert. and Amelia. Maddie B, Caoimhe and When we returned from the holidays, Alice D-R were all awarded Major Colours. All this hard work didn’t go unnoticed success for Wilson in sport continued; in As well as this, Maddie and Amelia picked however, and Wilson was rewarded with the Inter-house netball particular mention up the Shaw Trophy for the most countless different social events. The 6th must go to the 6th form, who came improved players while Alice won the form had a quiz night where Amanda, second. At the end of the netball season, Mortimer cup for the most consistent Harriet and Clare were crowned winners, Izzy was awarded Colts Colours while Full

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Caoimhe and Zara were all awarded House Colours for their efforts throughout the evening.

The final event of term was AGI Day, which as usual was met with great enthusiasm by everyone involved. With Alice and Tiff organising the drills, the House put in excellent performances in both the junior and senior drill, not forgetting the seniors’ The Inbetweeners dance. Wilson

When the House returned for the Summer Term, and the exams it brought with it, we continued to excel in a range of sports. In the 1st VI tennis team, Amelia Salvete: played well in the 2nd pair and joined in Charlotte Bailey, Kelly the 1st squad by Maddie, Camilla, Harriet Cheung, Sophie Daubeney, S and Igul, who were all awarded Full Clare Denning, Gabby Francis, Colours. The House again took part Rachel Ku, Angie Min, Astrid enthusiastically in the Inter-house tennis, where the seniors came second, as well Molke, Becky Nesbitt, Izzy as in the Inter-house rounders, where the Reid. 5th form placed second. Gaby and Izzy Valete: A also competed for the Central Surrey Colours were awarded to Camilla, Team in the athletics at the country Maddie Billings, Alice Caoimhe and Amelia. Maddie was also schools’ match. Davidson-Richards, Camilla awarded Major Colours and achieved Green, Katie Lang, Zara Double Majors. Wilson also performed Meanwhile, Astrid took first place in the Mukhtashova, Caoimhe exceptionally well in the swimming gala, Dodd Speaking Competition. A large Murdock, Tiffany Sachak, where Gaby broke two school records number of girls were also awarded music Lydia Sadana, Harriet Skan, (one of which belonged to Dani!) and the grades, but special mentions must go to Becky Todd, Clare Williams, U4s placed first. In the end, Wilson came Lydia, Katie and Clare W, who all achieved Carys Bainbridge, Clare first in the relays and second overall.A nd their Grade 8 singing, and Clare W, who Denning, Sophie Harte. we must not forget that Wilson also won also achieved her Grade 8 Viola with the Junior Cup in the table tennis, where distinction. Angie, Clare, Rachel, Housemistress: a special mention must go to Carys! Charlotte, Izzy, Kelly and Ying took part Mrs K. R. Todd in the M4/U4 Concert this term while Members of the House also shone on Amelia and Clare continued to shine in House Tutors: stage – Katie, Izi T, Immy and Sophie D the Orchestra. performed in Les Misérables, while Miss L. Beesley Frannie, Dani, Carys and Sophie H To reward ourselves for all our hard work Mrs H. Hynd worked backstage. Wilson also enjoyed throughout the exam season and to Mrs K. Lenham success in the Inter-house solo music celebrate the end of yet another Mrs S. Teasdale competition, with notable performances successful year for Wilson, the House Dr. M. Tod from Izzy R, Angie, Caoimhe, Tamika, held a summer picnic. This was an Ying, Dani and Izi T. In addition to this, evening of great fun, great food and great Head of House: several members of Wilson achieved games (Emma Borch in the sack race Alice Davidson-Richards music grades, including Lydia S for Grade was a sight to be seen!), it was the perfect 8 with merit. Ying also achieved Grade 8 way to end the term. with distinction for her LAMDA exam. As the end of another school year rapidly This year also saw the return of the approached, it was time to say goodbye – Mrs K, Ruth, Ajantha and Marguerita Wilson House soirée. This was truly a to those leaving the House – Carys, for all their help and support throughout fantastic evening that really displayed true Sophie H, Clare D and the U6th (our very the year, to Dr and Mrs Tod for running talent and House spirit. There was an own Disney cartoon characters). We also the House and to Alice and her U6th array of different performances throughout said goodbye to Mrs Lenham, who left team for everything they have done for the night, including songs, dances, Wilson to have a beautiful baby girl, the House. Here’s to another fun and sketches and videos. Some of the most named Margot, who was born on 25th successful year in Wilson! memorable events from the night include July. We wish all those leaving us the very the U4’s ‘Tutor Sketch’ and the U6th best of luck for the future – whatever it is Amelia Warner and Igul Nazarova sketch, which reminded us all what they may choose to do. Thanks must go mischief they got up to in their junior to the Wilson Tutors – Mrs Hynd, Mrs years! Katie, Dani, Frannie, Sophie, Lenham, Mrs Teasedale and Miss Beesley

26 INTERVIEW WITH MICHAEL WEAVER

Before his return to South Africa, Dani Tullett caught up with one of this year’s gap students for the inside story.

1. Why did you come to Epsom to be a gappie? I knew previous gappies who raved about it and said it was an awesome place; it seemed like a pretty cool school!

2. What do you do as a gappie? Mainly sport, like helping out with PE and coaching. We also do any odd jobs, like stuffing envelopes – basically, stuff teachers don’t want to do! We also help with the grounds, like leaf blowing or painting posts. I’m also involved in lifesaving too.

3. What’s the worst job? I would have to say coaching certain students ... boys of course! But mundane tasks and maintaining the grounds can be pretty dull sometimes.

4. What’s your favourite part about Epsom? Definitely the food! I also like the staff and, of course, my fellow gappies!

5. What will you do after you leave? I plan on going back home to South Africa to study engineering.

6. Do you have any hobbies? I love playing sport, especially water polo and rugby, but I also waterski. I enjoy reading and playing the guitar and drums too, when I get the chance.

7. What are your tastes in music? I LOVE the Red Hot Chili Peppers! Mumford and Sons are pretty awesome too. I also like Macklemore ... I can tell from your expression you don’t know who that is, but, trust me, he’s AMAZING!

8. How often do you go to the gym? Once or twice a week, I’m not really a gym kinda guy.

9. What’s your gym routine? I do rowing mostly.

10. Have you ever been a model or been asked to be one? Ha ha ... no! My friends would definitely laugh at me!

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Emily Hailstone GCSE Emily Watson L6th INTERVIEW WITH MICHAEL WEAVER

Ben Mitchel L6th Connor Shea L6th

Jae Youn Jung GCSE

Jae Youn Jung GCSE

28 P 29-58

CHORAL COMPETITION THE MUSIC SCHOLARS’ CONCERTS A LITTLE HOTEL ON THE SIDE ROBINSON HOUSE PLAY Dodd RUGBY German Exchange CROSS COUNTRY GIRLS’ HOCKEY

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MICHAELMAS SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2011

30 CHORAL COMPETITION The College was delighted to welcome singer, dancer and actress Bonnie Langford as the adjudicator this year.

Unison Partsong 1st Robinson 1st Fayrer 2nd Fayrer 2nd White 3rd Wilson 3rd Holman 4th Crawfurd, Holman and 4th Robinson and Wilson White

The Murray Young Cup for the best Fayrer House, with a performance of unison was won by Robinson House, ‘Feel Good Inc.’, by Gorillaz, was who performed ‘Somebody to Love’, by awarded the Hugh Carson Cup for the Queen. “Who needs Glee?” asked best partsong. “Fun, clever, great story, Bonnie Langford. “You showed excellent good personality,” commented Bonnie control, and it was classy too.” Langford, “you made great use of Conductor and Head of House, Patrick everyone’s strengths and characters.” Lewis, noted: “Despite the most White House was placed second with complicated dance moves ever put to their performance of ‘Hallelujah’, by music, it was actually really good.” Leonard Cohen, arranged by Harriet and Rochelle Smith. Holman’s ‘Uptown Girl’ Fayrer’s rousing rendition of ‘Summer of had to settle for third place. ‘69’, by Bryan Adams, was awarded second place, while Wilson’s unison – ‘Price Tag’ – was considered to be “both fun and stylish, with slick moves and a great range of voices”, and was placed third.

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Solo 1st Harry Kersley (Fayrer) 2nd Michael Rossi (Robinson) 3rd Abigail Marrow (Crawfurd) Sam Bonfield (Holman) Amy Symons (Rosebery) Harriet Smith (White)

Harry Kersley, representing Fayrer House, was awarded the Jeremy Trott Cup for his performance of Elgar’s ‘Is She Not Passing Fair?’, and Bonnie Langford enjoyed “every moment”, commenting: “What a glorious voice; rich in tone and quality.” Michael Rossi, representing Robinson House, sang ‘Home’, by Michael Bublé. He used his “silky” performance to charm his way to a very impressive second place. Third place was shared by soloists from Crawfurd, Holman, Rosebery and White House.

32 Overall 1st Fayrer 2nd Robinson 3rd White 4th Holman 5th Wilson

Benedict Roe charts Fayrer’s journey to victory – so unexpected it took even Mr Head by surprise ...

In this year’s Choral Competition Fayrer was out with a vengeance, having suffered terrible injustice in recent years. Fayrer’s confidence was ambiguous to Thus, the day of reckoning arrived. Shock took hold as it appeared we had begin with; the partsong sounded strong Fayrer had to fly or fall. Soar into the won overall, securing first in the solo and while the unison and solo seemed upper echelons of school celebrity or partsong performance while we picked unlikely prospects. Settling, finally (after crash gallantly, but somewhat miserably, up a glorious second place in the unison, what seemed many months of debating), back into the muscular, sports- most likely undeserved, yet warmly upon ‘Feel Good Inc.’ for the partsong orientated, ape-like stereotype that accepted. Hereby, Fayrer had defied the and ‘Summer of 69’ for the unison Fayrer has retained since the dawn of odds for the first time in a decade, Fayrer had the basis for its campaign. time. After the hordes of pupils from the causing massive uproar. In light of this, The solo we left to Harry Kersley, other Houses had performed their everyone else must suffer the knowledge Fayrer’s young, blossoming Pavarotti. impressive works, Fayrer stepped up to that, until next year, Fayrer won the 2011 While the hype for this year’s competition the plate. Some say dear Bonnie was Choral Competition! ensued House confidence grew as the ‘deluded’, others that she merely other Houses revealed their ‘playlists’. ‘succumbed to our masculine charm’, Suffice to say, Mr Head did not share but those of us with the clarity of mind to this over exuberance, as he was heard think rationally believe Fayrer had to mutter, “Here we go again ... where performed indomitably. are my ear plugs?”

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THE MUSIC SCHOLARS’ CONCERTS Two September concerts in Big School given by the fifty-two music award holders started the College’s musical year in fine style.

In the 6th-form Concert, there were Pourtaheri and Ellie Rhodes, who gave a notable vocal performances from dramatic account of ‘I Dreamed a Richard Barth, Toni Chan, Harriet Smith, Dream’. James Moreton gave a dazzling Rochelle Smith, Andy Wong, Abi display on the tenor sax, and the other Marrow, Tom Williamson and Camilla woodwind players were also particularly Green, who received a rousing reception strong, with performances from Harriet from the large audience for her Jennings on recorder; Ben Marrow and performance of Rusalka’s ‘Song to the Jamie Palmer on the clarinet; Alastair Moon’. Ryon Head accompanied himself Green, Anders Olesen-Frayne and Edafe on the guitar in one of his own Sowole-James on the alto sax; and compositions. Some fine pianism was Hannah Taylor, Will Goddard and on display from Melody Man, Wenfei Timothy Lazarus on the flute, the latter Teh, Tom Harvey, Camilla Bole, Sarah introducing the first movement of Chapman, Anna Halstead and Dicken Poulenc’s ‘Sonata’ with some wit. Some Kong, with many performing music by strong junior pianists tackled some Chopin. Other performers included challenging repertoire incredibly well, Annie Bowes (cello), Daniel Bradshaw including Ken Kong, Bryan Lao, Portia (trumpet), Sammi Lee (marimba), Clare Jennings, Annabel Sen and Juyeon Oh. Williams (viola) and Oliver Fox (oboe). Other performers included Philip Fiuza (violin), Eric Piancastelli-Clarke The Junior Concert displayed a wealth (trombone), Aidan Smith (cello), Alfie of promising talent in a wide range of Aukett (electric guitar), Will Murdock musical styles. The outstanding (drum kit) and Dilys Tambini-McGee performances included fine singing from (trumpet). Charles Ashie, Haran Nadesan, Jake Seabold, Henry Warne, Stephanie Mr G. A. Lodge (Director of Music) Knight, Helen Phizackerley, Jasmine

34 A LITTLE HOTEL ON THE SIDE This witty, well-paced Feydeau farce is Ben Grant, will not succeed in cleverly cast; Paul Henson’s direction experiencing the promised delight of an brings out the best in each one of his extra-marital affair with the vivacious actors in their confident portrayal of Sareena Blackburn, in the role of his thwarted lust, spiralling panic and a best friend’s wife, Marcelle Paillardin. Far seedy hotel where the escalating chaos from a quiet evening of love where he is perfectly placed. The staging is promised they “shall go to Paradise”, masterful, with an intelligent use of front they encounter half of Paris, including space and stage flats to create Pinglet’s most of their relatives and the Inspector office, later transformed into the far from of Public Morality, played confidently by discreet ‘Hôtel du Libre Échange’ or a pipe smoking Natalie Edwards. ‘free trade’ hotel. The name speaks for itself, and the design is well suited to Max Austin brings his own unique touch farce, with its distinctive rooms (9, 10 as the architect Henri Paillardin and is and 11) all open to view yet clearly laugh out loud hysterical. His ridiculous divided with curvy walls. The sleazy French accent reminds me of the brilliant atmosphere is enhanced with low-level Peter Sellers as Inspector Clouseau with lighting, bright bordello-red walls and his ‘murnkay’ (monkey). He is deliciously gestures, nerdy hat and goofy glasses; purple-red bedding. One of the most pompous and provides a wonderfully yet, below the surface, Victoire can see original casting double acts comes from serious buffer for other actors to play there is a man to be seduced, and one Polly Norkett and Juliet Ariel as Monsieur against. Will Entwistle’s portrayal of of the pleasures of the play is watching Bastien, shabby hotel owner, and his Paillardin’s nephew, Maxime, provides a this relationship unfold. trusted sidekick, Boulot. Equipped with real contrast to other roles in the play dark moustaches, deep-pitched voices and to his natural persona, as he is My favourite silly character is Mathieu, and exaggeratedly wide gaits, these two convinces us he is naive, shy and the Pinglet’s lawyer, beautifully played by fully commit to their characters, bringing gullible. “How can I study love with a Henry Awin, whose sincere, committed these base-minded men to life with their woman beside me?” he asks Missy performance makes this character truly blithe antics and sexual innuendo. Dipre as Victoire, the saucy maid, endearing. He is Father to four desperately clutching his philosophy daughters, well played by the two As the plot unravels, it becomes clear book. The sheepishly bashful, demure Annabels, Carys and Katie, who trail that Pinglet, superbly played by a mature philosopher is evident in his nervous round him in military fashion, responding

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This is a superb ensemble cast who make slick timing seem natural and easy. have all wholeheartedly embraced the We’d certainly notice it if they made style of farce, taking risks physically and mistakes, especially in a farce which showing great verbal dexterity. The pace relies on quick-paced cues to ensure is fast and furious, the atmosphere entrances and exits are well polished playfully charming and all directed with a and to facilitate the laughs. lightness of touch with is impressive. The stage management also deserves credit. Mr Henson promised a night of A box set and realistic props are not entertainment and giggles; he certainly easy to create and manage, yet the delivered. Praise to the entire ensemble team make it seem effortless, all under for bringing this happy, light-hearted the careful supervision of Eric Huxter. farce to the stage at Epsom College. This is one of my favourite sets, and the What a lovely way to spend an evening. impressive craftsmanship is due to the Farce is alive and strong; long may talent of Alex Hughes. His technical this continue! team also deserve great praise as they operate the lighting and sound cues Miss K. Chandley independently of Mr Hughes, fully in (Director of Drama) charge of this complex play and able to as one chorus to his whistles and commands in a similar manner to Captain von Trapp! One of my favourite lines is his proud assertion that he is “extraordinarily fertile”. In addition, this character is plagued by a stutter which only transpires in thunderstorms. Act 1 sees him try to explain his plans to the increasingly impatient Pinglets, who deserve enormous credit for keeping their composure as they intercept his words as quickly and annoyingly as predictive texts. How they don’t giggle is beyond me; I found myself nearly crying with laughter at one point when he is sincerely trying to say the word ‘ask’ but gets stuck on the ‘s’ syllable, causing much offence to Angelique Pinglet, beautifully played by Amy Gyngell.

36 Robinson House Play Nazi jackboots in Big School? On Tuesday 15th November 2011, the room was stormed by armed SS stormtroopers, specially trained in goose-stepping and idiotic savagery. Ben Mitchell, radiating brutality and ignorance, herded the visiting parents at gunpoint to their seats, his low, guttural instructions triggering nervous laughter in the crowd.

As the play progressed, this feeling of heartlessness of the school crowd and audience discomfort continued. The the far more comfortable environment of Robinson parents quite literally did not our peers. know whether to laugh or object, struggling to deal with the challenges of The announcing duo of Seb Sander and this black comedy – in fact, I haven’t Matt Barker were insightful of the seen such a display of shocked situation, while mocking of Ui’s expressions in a public place since the henchmen. Giri (Jack Harrison) was a GCSE results’ day! However, this did menacing, comedic and barbarous confirm that we had made a serious figure – in one scene he was portrayed impact on our parents; some believing moving like the Pink Panther (except that we had been attending secret Hitler with gasoline tanks and Nazi insignia). I Youth sessions, others considering also felt that his accent echoed Daniel counselling. Day Lewis in Gangs of New York. Givola (Alex Oxley) was exceedingly sinister and By contrast, our next performance had pulled off a performance even Goebbels brilliant results, mainly due to the himself would be proud of.

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Robinson House Play

Roma and Inna (Max Wildenberg and ‘passable New York accent’. Rather Jake Seabold) made an unusually modestly, Patrick stated: “In the end, I passionate couple, and you could feel was still upstaged by the glorious Alex the true emotional bond between them Hogarth, whose incredible ability to as they were slaughtered by Ui’s men. ignore the script was matched only by As Betty Dullfeet, David Boote would his hilarious ‘swag’.” have proved a distractingly beautiful lady – had he not possessed the hairy legs of The play also relied upon numerous Chewbacca. Cian Barry played the pitiful special effects, including an array of old president, Dogsborough, gradually different lighting effects, projected being usurped by Ui and close to death. images on backdrops, sound effects Of course, as Arturo Ui, Patrick Lewis and flame gel. After a few delays and truly stole the show, portraying the Hitler- mismatched sound effects on the first like dictator superbly down to the last night (I was killed by a fanfare sound detail; speaking every word with intense rather than a machine-gun burst), James emotion and investing every gesture with Kersley became a ‘sound’ sound effects supreme confidence. He later admitted manager. David Jones proved highly that he had been watching YouTube capable and made no mistakes with the clips of Hitler at the Nuremberg rallies to lighting, much to my dismay. I was also perfect his image, as well as many stunned by Sam Oulton’s ability to use episodes of the Sopranos to develop a Windows Media Player on a laptop,

38 order people to shift tables on and off stage and criticise my acting. Rupert Moreton, a rookie stage manager with one crew member down, gallantly partook in “three scenes of prop changes”, which was “one of the most stressful experiences [he’d] had”. I can only imagine the sheer pressure he was under, especially with those 10-ton tables.

At the conclusion, with the audience expecting an encore, they were instead shown a horrific and distressing video montage of images from the holocaust. Bertolt Brecht wrote this play in 1941 to encourage the Americans to join the war against Hitler by drawing clear parallels to characters and events in Nazi directing the play. At first, she must have scene, which, combined with saliva, Germany. Therefore, while Hitler’s rise to truly wished she hadn’t, but, over time, produced a substance which looked power is portrayed as comical in the she transformed the cast (many lacking rather like Uncle Ben’s pasta sauce. play, we were pointedly reminded of the acting experience) into a varied group of dreadful atrocities that Hitler did commit, actors capable of quickly switching from My only complaint is that the blanks for which were certainly no laughing comedy to menaces. She told us each the pistols were not loud enough – at matter. to imagine a cartoon character and then the dramatic moment where Ui shot run with it. Memorable examples were: himself, it sounded more like he had As a day House, it was difficult to find Nat Newman as Hook, an innocent and passed wind – an element of farce that rehearsal time in school when all required squeaky-voiced child, and Alex Kersley I’m not sure was intended. Reflecting on cast members could attend. Hence, we as the Judge, a weak and manipulative what, I confess, is a purely personal were forced to partake in many weeks of man who was told to walk as if he had viewpoint, I also feel it wouldn’t have ‘utterly tortuous’ after-school rehearsals, soiled himself. Indeed, I was given the hurt to have played a few Rammstein which gradually drove everyone insane, role which I was naturally appropriate songs in the background. The general but ‘pulled the House closer together as for: a drugged-up and drooling buffoon. consensus from the vast majority of the a result’. Despite this, we all managed to Various mistakes made during the play play’s participants was that they’d love pull off one hell of a production, bar were also turned to their advantage, to continue drama in the future, and I Shaun De Souza, whose untimely illness such as Alex Hogarth’s ripped trousers have to thank Mr Conway and Miss prevented him from continuing his utterly and Josh Hanley setting fire to his own Chandley for putting so much time and brilliant American accent, which made boot; both added to the hilarity of the effort into the play we enjoyed so much. everyone explode with laughter. Miss play. Regrettably, I recall popping a blood Chandley stepped up to the challenge of capsule in my mouth too early in my Jack Shephard

39 DODD SPEAKING COMPETITION 20

EPSOMIAN 12 Dodd Speaking Competition

This year’s 6th-form Dodd Speaking Competition was held in Main Hall during November. The challenge was to speak in an engaging, informed and fluent manner on a matter of personal significance. The guest adjudicator for the evening was entrepreneur Denise Nathan.

Matthew Chen bravely opened the economic crisis. She had some information about “Our Prime Minister”, competition with an engaging speech extremely strong opinions on the back in the day, as examples of this. focused on ‘our moral duty to the poor collapse of the economy and conveyed Clive Zhou finally answered the question in Third World countries’, it was as them passionately. Serena’s speech on all of us were intrigued to know ... the persuasive as it was moving and left the the corruption of the English language secret to Chinese students excelling at audience with the harrowing thought was, although very humorous, also Maths. that “19 lives could have been spared seriously worrying! during this speech”. Sammi Lee Janine Zager spoke about the existence compared the laws surrounding the Polly Norkett – having come so close to of sexism in the Western world, coming anonymity of sexual offenders in the US winning the previous year’s competition to a conclusion that women are no and UK; she had expressed some – gave a winning speech encompassing longer discriminated against. Her speech interesting views on this moral dilemma all generations. She spoke about life was well crafted and included several and provided some intelligent solutions. repeating itself and the fact that, as a sexist jokes to prove not only that the society, we are not learning from our housewife stereotype still exists, but also Ralph Haville gave a powerful speech as mistakes. She also included a very valid that “girls can have banter!” Morris he reminded the audience of the awful comment about how we should all take Seifert gave an impressive speech about state of affairs in England back in August a moment to listen to our parents, and the concept of lying. He used comical during the London riots; he examined particularly our grandparents, as they examples to discuss a seriously the enormous change that England has can give us the most valuable life lessons controversial topic: Can lying be been through during the past century. having had the longest experience of acceptable? He also stunned us with the Max spoke about a similar topic but living and making mistakes. figures, which show that we lie five times approached it in a very different way and a day! provided contrasting opinions on the Lara Treherne showed her tremendous dramatic change in English society. Max passion for feminist literature, offering Marissa’s speech about ‘How easily we addressed the question: ‘Is change her opinions and also some book might spare a million or two humans ...’ necessary?’ and touched on many recommendations! However, she used brilliantly ended the competition. It was political issues, adding his own solid facts to support her view that heart-felt and very engaging as she left conservative views, to make for a very women dominate literature nowadays. us with something to think about – how interesting speech. Ben dealt with the false media portrayal serious and dangerous human of a ‘chav’, stating that class doesn’t destruction on the environment is Celine Klein left us with an alarming always affect our actions or fate and that becoming. thought that our generation is going to it doesn’t always define success, using a have to pick up the pieces of this recent case with Eton boys and some Annabel Lindsay

40 RUGBY 1st XV P11 | W7 | L4

The squad felt well prepared for the struggled with injuries that disrupted our upcoming season after a tough pre- plans and we went down to a season training camp in France at the disappointing defeat. A midweek game end of the summer holidays. against Oundle, played at the famous HAC ground in the City of London, came During our first game of the season we next. Coming off a loss we wanted to effectively had two opponents in the first get back to winning ways, and did so in half. We lost the toss and Tonbridge classy fashion with strong defending and used the weather to their advantage. scoring some quality tries from Jordan Unfortunately, we went down 20 points Burns, who scored 2, and Mide Ajibade, in the first half as we couldn’t seem to with Ollie Weir adding 3 conversions and get our set piece to function, losing our 1 drop goal. own line out and scrums and spending what felt like an eternity in our 22. The Next up: Eastbourne. I wish the game second half came and we picked up our had been cancelled due to heavy rain performance and started to come back and flooding, but, in perfect conditions, into the game, but left it too late and we made too many errors and slipped to lost. another defeat. Just before half term we played Eton. This was make or break for Next up was Harrow, we had it all to our season, we needed to find some prove and put up a much-improved consistency. We pulled out a good performance. We played much better performance and won a tough game rugby but were still struggling to be away from home. A great try from Jordan clinical. We eventually managed to steal Burns was backed up by 3 penalties a much-deserved win in the last play of and 1 conversion from Ollie Weir. Wellington College proved to be a very the game with a team try in the corner. physical side who eventually proved too We then faced Cranleigh. The score was After half term Brighton were our first strong for us, although there was only 1 tight throughout the match, with both challenge. It was a very close game, with score in it at the end. We started very sides battling for the lead, but we the Brighton team gradually edging into strongly against St. John’s in our derby gradually pulled away. The game the lead. In the final 10 minutes, we dug fixture, scoring tries in the first half seemed out of sight in the last quarter really deep and managed to score a through Chris du Toit, Charlie Briegel until Cranleigh scored a decent try with converted try through Chris du Toit that and Ollie Weir, but we become the last play of the game. Fortunately, took us to within 2 points of our complacent and allowed them back into their kicker missed a difficult kick from opponents. With two minutes left on the the game. Our strong defence, however, the touchline and we scraped a win. clock, we had good field position and prevented them stealing the match. our forwards worked the ball into a Dulwich was the last game of the long After 2 wins in a row our spirits were central position before Ollie Weir kicked season. After an emotional team talk we high going into the next match against a drop goal which scrapped over the bar walked onto the pitch for the last time. A RGS Guilford. It was a very frustrating to secure a great win. close, low-scoring game saw us edge game where things just didn’t go our home by one point against the eventual way. Guildford took their chances as we winners of the Daily Mail Cup. Fred

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EPSOMIAN 12

1st XV Results

Pearce scored a try followed up by an TONBRIDGE (H) 10 – 20 lost Ollie Weir penalty in the second half. HARROW (A) 8 – 14 Won The season certainly didn’t get off to the CRANLEIGH (H) 27 – 25 Won best start, and consistency wasn’t a RGS (H) 12 – 33 lost strength, leading to a roller-coaster season. But we played some awesome OUNDLE (A) 12 – 24 Won rugby at times, and got a number of EASTBOURNE (A) 12 – 3 lost last-gasp wins which, overall, made it a ETON (A) 8 – 16 Won strong season for Epsom 1st XV rugby. Finally, a thank you to Mr Wolstenholme BRIGHTON (H) 20 – 19 Won and Mr Whiteley for their commitment WELLINGTON (A) 19 – 13 lost and devotion throughout the season and St. JOHN’S (A) 16 – 23 Won to our parents for all their endless support over the years. DULWICH (H) 8 – 7 Won

Ollie Ramagge (captain)

42 2nd XV P10 | W6 | D1 | L3

The 2nd XV saw a lot of success this season, with some solid wins under the captaincy of Fred (the Maniac) Pearce and Ali (the Tornado) Porter, and recorded the best win/loss ratio of any on the 1st side.

The season started off with a tough match against Tonbridge, but some hard tackling and good set pieces managed to put George Lindley through a number of times. A particularly magic moment was Phil (the Elephant Seal) Glover’s single contribution to the whole season, a beautifully placed grubber almost placing Ali in on goal. From there we moved onto a tough Harrow team in a particularly close game; Michael Rossi managed to get off the floor long enough to score an interception, yet a missed conversion edged us out of the game.

Provided with some inspirational captain’s speeches and some top chat from George (the Creeper) Hatfield, we beat them. This was followed up by a managed to bounce back to record big classic Wellington match – always a trial. wins against Cranleigh and RGS thanks After a long coach journey our to our dominant scrum. On both concentration lapsed at the beginning as occasions our large front row managed we let in 2 early tries. However, from to use their 45-stone mass to bulldoze then on the match was all ours as we through the opposition; sly Harry (Two dominated the possession and contact for Tuesday) Kersley helped throughout areas, Jamie (please let me play) Hamill by his game-changing supplements. getting carried away at the rucks and Notable mention must be made about deservedly should have come away with Chris (the Rake) Bolton’s coverage at the something more, yet they had the back, managing to present too small a stamina on us and managed to hold target to be hit. out.

From there we made the arduous We went into the last two games of the journey to Eastbourne, and finished season determined to get 2 wins after them off in less time than it took to get some good training sessions. The St. there, running in 7 tries as Luke (the John’s match was tense throughout, Gazelle) Oldershaw played an impressive with tempers flaring. James (Piggy) 3rd XV part, helped by Jack Kibble ‘the Pipist’ Standen’s precise kicking kept them at White’s textbook distribution. Eton bay for another win. The last Dulwich P10 | W4 | L6 provided a much stouter challenge, and match was one we did not want to lose despite losing players halfway through on our pitch, christened by Mr Thomas The 3rd XV had a highly competitive and (as usual) to the 1st team, we played a as ‘the fortress’, and everyone was hard-fought season with several tight good game, but were unable to finish particularly pumped for it. After a number games. In the first game, we showed a them off. The match ended in a draw, of scuffles (dealt with by an authoritative great deal of promise, matching despite the Eton referee seeming to ref) they could not handle the Epsom Tonbridge throughout the first half. suffer from temporary amnesia; Mr physicality. Unfortunately, we were unable to Thomas courteously reminded him that capitalise on our chances and the game Eton had not in fact scored 3 tries! The 7/3 season performance arguably ended in a narrow defeat (5–16). The could have been better, but in all it was next three games of the season followed We came out of half term on a high, but an impressive display from the team, a similar suit, where we continued to came up against an extremely tough spurred on by Mr MacDowel’s stoic improve and played some entertaining Brighton team that had been impressively presence on the sideline and Mr and expansive rugby, only to lose each imperious on the rest of the circuit. We Thomas’s passionate speeches. one by a single score (Harrow by 2 put up a fight, but an inability to get the points, Cranleigh by 5 and RGS ball out wide to Mide saw us unable to George Hatfield Guildford by 2).

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the 10 fixtures played. The three- quarters were always a threat, with both pace and excellent handling leading to plenty of exciting tries. The halfback pair of Tom Morgan and the ever-present Adam Briggs laid the platform for the speed of Alex Hinds and Tayo Adeoye to cash in on. Alfie Button was always reliable, both in defence and attack, and full back Teagan Pitout used his footballing skills to good effect.

The forwards, led by captain Patel, won plenty of ball and his tenacious back row partners, Mike Riddlesdell and Alex Knight, were always in support and recycled plenty of ball for the backs to use. Props Tom Williamson and Ollie Polkey provided a solid scrum throughout the season.

Beating Eastbourne, Brighton and Dulwich by 50 points were the highlights of a really enjoyable season. The team were a real credit to the College and played rugby how it should be.

Mr N. R. Taylor

5th XV P7 | W1 | L6

The 5th XV were able to turn out to play seven fixtures and, although match results might suggest otherwise, did manage to enjoy their Saturday afternoons. The most frustrating aspect of the season was, as ever, the loss of The team had now played four, lost four, The remainder of the season saw the players just before and during each despite coming close in every match, team playing more expansive and match, illustrated most vividly on one and morale was low. The next game was entertaining rugby, with a 43–0 victory particular afternoon when, despite taking an away visit to Eastbourne, where we over Brighton College and close defeats four substitutes, the team were forced to finally got the elusive first win. From the to Wellington and St. John’s. The final complete the game with just 12 players. first whistle the forwards set about out game was a bruising encounter against powering the opposition pack and Dulwich College. With several team Mr J. R. L. Hartley provided an armchair ride for fly half Jeff members playing their final game for the Gill to direct the backs. Throughout the school emotions were high, and there game the forwards, led by captain were notable performances from 6th XV Connor Findlay, dominated the Timothy Plumbridge, Jack Kibblewhite breakdown, leaving the backs free to and – in his one and only performance The keenness of the boys and move the ball and run in several well- for the 3rd XV – Ollie Polkey. The game commitment of the College enabled us executed tries. The game ended 29–7. ended in 24–0 win for Epsom and was a to turn out a 6th XV, at least until half fitting end to the season. term. Matches against Tonbridge, Eton The next game saw a much more and Dulwich were well contested by confident side head to Eton for the last Mr T. A. Stone players, enthusiastically supported by game before half term. Once again the parents and enjoyed by all. forwards went to work on disrupting any opposition momentum and we started 4th XV Mr D. N. Rice to distribute the ball more effectively. Despite a mighty effort from the Eton 3rd P10 | W7 | L3 XV, they found it hard to live with the pace of wing Ben Grant, who, in The 4th XV had a very successful scoring a hat-trick, helped to secure a season, playing some very entertaining 31–15 victory. rugby along the way, winning seven of

44 Colts A XV P10 | W6 | D1 | L3

After a mixed Junior Colts season, the team was determined to improve on the results and was really looking forward to the season ahead. The season got off to a great start with a victory over Tonbridge. Having been defeated comfortably in the past two years, a 55–15 victory was a fantastic result. This win gave the team a lot of confidence going into the next game and it also proved what a changed side we were from the previous year and what potential we had going into the rest of the season.

A 22-points-all draw against an undefeated Harrow side was one of the best achievements of the season, considering the quality of their side. These early successes were followed up by three more victories over Cranleigh (28–6), RGS (31–7) and Eastbourne (44– 29). Quick, running rugby was a strong asset in attack, however there were weaknesses in defence, as the Eastbourne score suggested. The last interception that resulted in a try; Note from the coaches: game from the first half of the term however, after this the game turned into This is a very talented group proved the toughest encounter yet. The a much better contest. Good hands in unbeaten record was lost in a mixed the backs and intense rucking up front of players that were a pleasure game against Eton (24–35), where poor provided a good base for tries out wide. to coach. It has been a long defence early on led to a large lead to The good play continued in the second while since we have had such chase in the second half, which, despite half and, in the end, Epsom came out on a good group in terms of their a late surge of tries, was too large to top with a good 44–12 win. The final match. The first half of term had generally game of the season, against Dulwich, handling, running lines and been very successful, with great wins, was always going to be a physical desire to play for each other. however poor defence and ball retention encounter but, nonetheless, a match we At times we would have liked was costly at times. could win. We spent the majority of the them to have been a bit more game in our own half and never really The first game back, against Brighton, got a chance to build phases and an physical and some of them was a turning point for the team’s attack. However, on one of the few need to develop a more ‘nasty’ defence, and, despite some key injuries, occasions we did spread the ball good awkward side to their game in produced a good win (26–17). The hands and lines got us a nice try. This the contact area. Nonetheless, following week the team travelled to game was one of the best defensive Wellington, for what we knew would be performances of the season, and had it they are a very attractive side a tough encounter. The first half proved not been for a few mistakes in the to watch that play with plenty to be a close battle, with dogged second half the score could have been a of ambition and learn from defence from both sides. We failed to lot closer (final score 12–22). convert a few opportunities that could their mistakes. Ben Woollams have made the difference, but, in the This was an excellent season all round was an excellent leader of end, sustained pressure from Wellington and was a very enjoyable one as well. this team in both his attitude broke our defence on a few occasions. The team showed great improvements and individual play. We are The game was a great fight, but we on the past two years and throughout lacked composure in the backs (injuries) the season, which has to come down to confident that many of them and lost 0–17. the coaching and great determination will make excellent 1st-team from the whole squad. Thanks must also players in the years to come. Coming back after the exeat we were go to Mr Drinkall and Mr Hobbs for the fired up for the local rivalry of St. John’s, excellent coaching and for bringing on at home, and having narrowly lost two each player through the course of the Mr J. M. Drinkall and years ago, and with the fixture not played season. Mr M. D. Hobbs last year, there was a lot at stake. The game got off to an unlucky start with an Myles Pittam

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Coulda beaten Wellington in a crazy game that ended 29–33 had there not been any uncontested scrums.

Shoulda beaten RGS Guildford but conceded tries in the first and last minutes to lose 13–19.

Woulda beaten Dulwich in the last game of the season had we not been decimated by injury and failed to tackle a monster centre who ran in 4 breakaway tries from his own 22, despite dominating possession and territory for the rest of the game.

The only team better than us was Harrow. The rest of the season saw superb backs-to-the-wall victories (Tonbridge, Eton) interspersed with crushing wins (Eastbourne, St. John’s).

The talisman of the team was Paul Sciver, who was probably too good for C-team level, he was a superstar at fly half and centre with ball in hand, with his astute kicking and in the tackle. Others to star were Louis Patel, Jake McGrath and Nikita Ganin, all to be rewarded with promotion to the Colts B team.

The forwards dominated all the scrums and went forward relentlessly. Imran Husain and Alex Waterman stood out as giants among men in this respect.

In the backs, Jacob Isherwood at scrum half was a consistent performer, Nick Williams was fabulously versatile and Damola Ibrahim the most improved, if only he could put the ball down over the try line.

Colts Colours for Injuries higher up gave others the chance the season were to come in and shine, which many did, awarded to: but there are too many boys to praise individually. The squad was a fun and Ben Woollams Colts B XV hard-working group of lads to coach Cian Barry who never gave anything less than their James Francis P10 | W6 | L4 best. Thanks go to Mr Willis for his coaching and refereeing, to Mr Winmill James Smith for his beasting fitness sessions and Myles Pittam Colts C XV coaching and also to the hardy parents Charles Dockery who supported us superbly, both home Charles Ashie P10 | W6 | L4 and away. Matthew Young Harry Wakefield Best win – v Eastbourne (67–0) Mr A. J. Bustard Fabian Lumsden These results don’t accurately convey SMITH BALEWA CUP (FOR THE how successful the season almost was. MOST PROMISING COLT) AWARDED TO Three of the 4 losses can be summarised Charles Dockery as coulda, shoulda, woulda ...

46 Junior Colts A P10 | W3 | D1 | L6

This was a mixed season overall. We have played some amazing matches and enjoyed some big wins, but we have also seen what could be described as some ‘less encouraging’ displays.

We started the season at Tonbridge, which was always going to be a difficult match; we lost the match, but the spirit shown by the team was fantastic. This spirit continued into what I feel was our ‘match of the season’ – a 5–5 draw against a very strong Harrow team. We and words of inspiration throughout the performance of the season. We led displayed great skill and pride that day season, and to our parents for standing throughout, with a series of great tries with some massive tackles and flowing on the touchline giving us lots of from (among others) Hayden Hunt and running. We wouldn’t have done it if Max encouragement. some great wing play by Ian Yeung, but Holder hadn’t come on in the last 30 as the game progressed we ended up seconds to hold that final scrum on our Alex Todd (captain) camped in our own 22. After a own 5m line. A thumping win away at surprisingly long amount of injury time, Cranleigh followed before we ‘hit the St. John’s eventually crossed our try line wall’ at RGS, a day when we didn’t turn Junior Colts B to end up winning 32–31. up until the last 10 minutes. Victories against Eastbourne and Brighton P10 | W2 | L8 The season finished with a disappointing followed, but reverses were also loss to Dulwich, largely due to the long experienced against other strong This season saw the team punching list of injuries suffered throughout the schools, most notably Wellington. In the above its weight as, once again, many year group, but even that did not halt the Daily Mail Cup, we had 2 easy wins of the teams we faced were all-boy great team spirit. Big thanks must go to before meeting Hampton School and schools with a larger number of boys in our coach, Mr Schofield, who leaves the their ‘Russian’ winger – enough said. their squad. Despite this, the team College at the end of this year, who was performed well and used excellent ably assisted by Mr Watson. In reflection, our season has been forward play to great effect. blighted by injuries to important players Max Wildenberg (captain) at key times. It seems that every player The start of the season was slow, as we has been injured in some way this played some of the strongest teams on season: from torn hamstrings to broken the circuit (e.g. Tonbridge, Harrow). The Junior Colts C bones and swollen knees to heavy team fought hard and the players never concussions. This left us short, with let their heads drop, no matter what the P10 | W2 | L8 many of our players having to play out of score. The more games we played as a position. Our results in the second half group the better we became, and when of the season suffered as a result. That it came to the Cranleigh match halfway Junior Colts D being said, I am encouraged by the through the season we were working as quality of the players that are in our team a solid unit. It was a brilliant game with a P7 | W3 | L4 and the passion and skill that we mind-blowing dummy, then a try, from demonstrate when we ‘turn up’ in big Aidan Smith, who had come down from Our season started with a couple of games. the As for a game. We sat back and heavy defeats. However, there was a defended, which meant there was less feeling that this group had something In terms of statistics for the season, pressure on Cranleigh, and a few about them, and this proved to be the George Mount and Tife Ajibade were mistakes meant that they came back case during the season highlight, away, joint top try scorers with 8 each and the almost to win, but thanks to our brilliant against St. John’s. The boys are too kind top points scorer was Alex Todd with 48 passion, strength and rucking skills we in crediting the coach (Mr Hynd!) with points, mostly all conversions! The held them off for our first win: 21–19. this win, but it has to be said that they standout player for me for the season Some tough games against RGS and did respond well to an SOS (save our was Connor Woodcock, who just Eton followed before a trip to Brighton. season) call! They turned a 12–0 half- seemed to go from strength to strength We won this match comfortably, despite time deficit into a 19–12 win, thus as the season progressed. Seb Lim breaking his ankle, leaving us becoming the only team in the U15 year with a hole at fly half, which was group to win that day. Finally, I would like to thank Mr Doran comfortably filled by Mubarak Mustapha. and Mr Matthews for their great coaching The game at St. John’s saw our Mr M. Hynd

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This year the U14 As enjoyed an be the toughest of the season. Once unbeaten season against some again we scored early in the match, and formidable opposition. The key to our with some excellent defence we went on success was a strong and mobile pack to win a tight encounter. The local derby combined with a big, fast and creative versus a well-disciplined St. John’s side backline, which together allowed us to was our next task. In one of the best launch an attack from anywhere on the performances of the season we won pitch. comfortably with six different try scorers. That left us with one match left to play Our first fixture was a tough away game against Dulwich to achieve a perfect 10. against Tonbridge. We won thanks to a They put up a good fight, but they were good team performance and were no match for our Epsom side. unlucky to concede a breakaway try. One of the great strengths of this side is We were still trying to find our rhythm in the breadth of the talent across all the second game at Harrow. Even with a positions, which is evidenced by the fact patchy performance the team ground that 14 different players scored tries in out a win, showing an ability to ‘win ugly’ our 10 games. We were also fortunate when necessary. to have a very capable kicker in Isaac Braithwaite. In total, the team scored We picked up the pace in the next few 321 points and conceded only 59 points, games: first against Cranleigh, where proof of every player’s commitment and Nick Whitehead scored a hat-trick of bravery in defence. tries, followed by RGS Guildford, where U14 A Team Peter O’Brien also scored a hat-trick and Our challenge is to build upon this year’s finally Eastbourne where Harry Cooke success and take our current form into P10 W10 scored a brace. the Daily Mail Cup next season. The road to an Next up promised to be a tough match Jamie Anderson (captain) against an Eton side who had recorded unbeaten season ... some good results already this season. Any pre-match nerves were quickly U14 B Team TONBRIDGE (A) 5 – 17 dispelled when we scored a try in the first minute. We went on to dominate, P10 | W7 | L3 HARROW (A) 7 – 15 winning the game 7 tries to 1. CRANLEIGH (H) 51 – 5 The U14 B team enjoyed one of its most RGS (A) 5 – 38 By the time half term arrived the team successful seasons for years, playing had played six matches and won six, some outstanding, disciplined rugby. EASTBOURNE (A) 7 – 27 with momentum building every game, The first match was away against ETON (H) 39 – 7 but after half term we were to face Tonbridge, always a very tough BRIGHTON (H) 43 – 14 Brighton, who initially offered some encounter against the big all-boys resistance, but we once again prevailed, school. Epsom started strongly and WELLINGTON (H) 14 – 6 helped by 2 tries from Jamie Palmer and remained dominant throughout through St. JOHN’S (H) 41 – 0 a hat-trick from Cooke. straight running, plenty of unselfish play and lots of pace. We also out-rucked DULWICH (A) 17 – 29 Our next game was against Wellington Tonbridge and won the game 31–7, with College, and, as expected, it proved to Daniel Rajabali scoring 3 tries. We came

48 RUGBY

up against a very tough Harrow side hard work and great skill that he brought Eastbourne was our toughest match of next; it was a good close game, but to the midfield and the team. Fr. Paul the season to that point and we Epsom went down 36–24 having learned and I would also like to thank all the boys deserved a hard-earned win. This helped a great deal. for their efforts in training which led to us in the match against Eton, which the success. We will be watching your finished a 20–20 draw, well contested Peter O’Brien scored a hat-trick of tries results with interest in the coming year! by both sides. However, by far the in the 45–20 crushing of Cranleigh highlight of the season for the team was before being called up to the A team. A Mr J. F. Stephens the match against St. John’s. In the first very competent win came next away at half they were camped in our 22. RGS Guildford, with a brilliant However, through our whole team being performance from Harry Roberts running U14 C Team committed in defence we managed to in 2 tries. The pack was fantastic in go in at half-time with a 5–7 scoreline. controlling the possession and tries were P10 | W5 | D2 | L3 This was thanks to a well-timed scored around the fringes by Clements, interception from Olly Darroch and good Lockyer and Chiu. Eton was the better The U14 C team enjoyed a very defence all round from the team. Then in side in our match just before half term. successful season, which included some the second half our team focused on very close games, games where we attacking St. John’s out wide and we Brighton travelled to us immediately after dominated through our attack and scored 2 tries in quick succession. half term with a decent side. games where our defence won us the Having played tight games before, we Nevertheless, Epsom were superb and game. had the experience to close out the tries from Roberts, Rajabali, Waite, game for a win. Clements and 2 from Dennis, gave us a We started the season with a tough huge 40 points to 7 victory. The win of fixture against Tonbridge. Unfortunately, In short, our strengths: pace out wide, the season followed in our annual fixture we narrowly lost the game, however the commitment in defence (mostly!), hard- against Wellington. Epsom were fantastic side showed early promise. This was working forwards and teamwork. Areas in defence against strong opposition. It shown against Harrow with another very to work on for next season are: going was a great team effort all round, but close game. Following these defeats the into the game not focused on some Roberts ran in 2 tries and kicked 2 team was shuffled around, people were occasions and giving away too many conversions. The score was 19–0. We given different positions and we went penalties. played a very controlled and patient into the game against RGS a very game of rugby against a brutal and ill- different side that played against Players of the season: Edafe Sowole disciplined St. John’s team and ended Tonbridge. We won the game by a large James, James Blomfield. up winning 26–10. margin through our forwards working as a unit and our backs being clinical with Alex Bishop (captain) Our final game against Dulwich away the ball. This was reflected in the games was hard – we played well but ended up against Wellington and Brighton. Despite losing 29–19. It did not take anything these matches being the games that we U14 D Team away from the fact that this was a most scored the most tries in, we were not successful season with a team with really tested as a side until we played P9 | W3 | L6 masses of potential. I would like to thank Eastbourne, Eton and St. John’s. the captain, Tom Jimena-Tilling, for his

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German Exchange During October half term, stunning caverns and winding tunnels. students’ intelligent questions about While Miss Brabham would have many political issues, including whether students from Epsom preferred not to notice the enormous or not it was fair that Germany should College and Reid’s cave spider dangling above her head, shoulder so much of the burden of the views were definitely worth it. solving the Eurozone’s problems. School teamed up with their counterparts from Another highlight of the visit was a trip to Another early morning, another train Iserlöhn’s famous Floriansdorf complex journey, and we arrived in Cologne to Märkisches Gymnasium and fire station. Alex Kerlsey was one of glorious sunshine and imposing views of for the biennial German the students to test his mettle against a the magnificent medieval cathedral. After exchange to Iserlöhn. pitch-black obstacle course used by learning about the effects of the allied firemen to simulate conditions inside a bombing raids on the city during the burning building, while others preferred Second World War, it was time to have The visit began with an action-packed to take on the revolving fireman’s ladder some fun. While Mr Sandison-Smith and night out at an ice hockey match – a vertical treadmill which was even the other teachers headed off in search between the Iserlöhn Roosters and the tougher than it looked. After the day’s of some traditional German cuisine, Berlin Ice Bears. After much shouting, exertions, it was time to relax with friends there was serious shopping to do. With singing and a few gasps of horror at and exchange partners, ready for our presents to take home and promises to some bone-crunching collisions on the trip to Berlin. As well as seeing some of keep in touch, the week had come to an ice, we saw the home team win, and the the city’s most famous sites, including end, and it was time return to the UK. giant inflatable rooster was raised in the Brandenburg Gate, the Holocaust Thanks to Mr Ellison and all the staff victory! We would meet the Berlin Bear Memorial and sections of the Berlin Wall, involved in organising the trip and thanks again later that week, but, in the the most memorable moment of our day also to the students for their impeccable meantime, creepy crawlies were the in the capital had to be our visit to the behaviour, which made a great order of the day as we made our way Reichstag. After a tour of the spectacular impression on all whom met them. underground into the famous parliament chamber and dome, Hopefully, the next visit in two years’ Dechenhöle. Once inside the magical designed by British architect Norman time will be even better! caves, we handled the bones of the Foster, we met with Iserlöhn’s local MP, prehistoric creatures which had lived Sports Minister Dagmar Freitag. Frau Miss H. S. Brabham there, as we made our way through Döring was impressed by the Epsom

50 RUGBY Cross Country The Inter-house cross-country event held in the Michaelmas Term on the Downs remains a highlight of the Epsom College calendar and provides a good introduction for those who wish to join the group for the inter-school Lent Term programme.

Jamie Hamill was up on the Downs to cover the event for the Epsomian.

Running. As the lungs furiously pump oxygen around the flailing body, the once sturdy legs propel the runner up the final wood-chipped hill. The finish line looms in sight, the front-runners begin to tear away. The glorious sight of the grandstand appears: a symbol of safety and security. The tall, athletic leaders converge upon the finish line, looks of grimace and glory etched upon their faces. But something was wrong: they had been beaten! What travesty was this?

On Thursday 24th November, a momentous event occurred. For once,

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CROSS COUNTRY GIRLS’ RESULTS REPORT SENIOR WINNER: The usual Lent Term programme was Sammi Lee (White House) disrupted by a combination of bad House Order: 1) Rosebery, weather and injuries, but the teams 2) White, 3) Crawfurd, performed with credit throughout a 4) Wilson, 5) Raven difficult season. INTERMEDIATE WINNER: Ciaran O’Duffy, who captained the team, Tilly Alexis (Raven House) qualified for Surrey County and the House Order: 1) Raven, senior boys’ team did well to come 2) Rosebery, 3) Crawfurd, second in the South London Harriers 4) Wilson event on Coulsdon Common and third in the Pat Bagnall Trophy on Hampstead Heath. It is always encouraging and JUNIOR WINNER: refreshing to see pupils prepared to Sophie Rumble (Raven) travel long distances and compete in all House Order: 1) Crawfurd, weathers, and against strong opposition, 2) Rosebery, 3) Raven, 4) Wilson with such enthusiasm. M4s boys of little running ability actually succeeded in the Inter-house Cross- Cross country is indeed proving BOYS’ RESULTS country Competition after the front- evermore popular in independent runners mistakenly took a wrong, and schools at every age group, and never SENIOR WINNER: longer, path. This break from the norm more so than among the girls, so it was Ciaran O’Duffy (Carr House) was viewed with disgruntlement by the very pleasing to see the senior girls’ established order but with joy by all of team come second in the Ardingly House Order: 1) Fayrer, 2) Propert, those that know the pain of undue Relays, the Pat Bagnall Trophy and win 3) Carr, 4) Holman, 5) Granville, exercise. Deluded thoughts of further the South London Harriers girls’ event. 6) Robinson victories began to emerge: if this was possible, what next? Would superior The girls’ team was ably led by Sammi INTERMEDIATE WINNER: intellectual ability but physical weakness Lee, and the award of Full Colours was Nicholas Taffinder (Fayrer House) finally triumph over muscular brawn thoroughly deserved. Many L6th House Order: 1) Fayrer, 2) Carr, outside the classroom? Sadly, the event competitors will return next year, so we 3) Forest, 4) Robinson, 5) Propert, was re-held and the natural order should hope to have the nucleus of a 6) Holman reverted, but the heroes of the day shall strong squad for the forthcoming never be forgotten! season.

Jamie Hamill Mr R. Ellison

52 GIRLS’ HOCKEY 1st XI match was tougher, but the girls stepped up and came out on top again, P10 | W2 | D4 | L4 demonstrating how far we had come as a team, and finished the tour on a high. The season began directly following a Although Alexia Fenn and Becki Weller successful tour to the Netherlands. This were not able to come with us, they tour was the first to Holland over which were missed hugely, and when we came we had remained unbeaten, which was back to school for the second half of a huge achievement for us, especially as term they demonstrated what key we were such a young team. We then members of the squad they are. represented the College in the Christ Hospital Pre-season Tournament. We Coming back to school for the second were unbeaten for the whole tournament, half of the term, the team had a tough with some really positive wins, but a match against Cranleigh, a school drawn final meant we narrowly missed well known for its hockey, and, out on first place. unfortunately, we were unable to keep up with their play. However, we still The season then got off to a positive came out with positives, such as start with an impressive 8–1 win against committed and determined play in the St. John’s. Eliza Melville, Lindsay Sinclair midfield and defence from Eimear and and Milly Shopland stood out with some Roisin Monaghan and Zoe Sciver. what we had hoped for, but was good encouraging performances in this first Alice Davidson-Richards also continued enough for us! We played well as a game. The team then came up against to show us her talents in the goal, team, with great balls going up to the some strong sides, such as Sevenoaks making some great saves throughout forwards and teamwork down the wings. and Brighton. Although results did not the match. We then played Reed’s, It was a great end to the season and, for go our way, it was clear we were which was a really positive outcome for the U6th, it was a great way for us to improving and, week by week, grew us. Alice made some incredible saves, end our hockey careers at Epsom from strength to strength. This was most deflecting some over the crossbar, which College. I also want to mention Alice evident in the match against held us in the match. who, as my vice-captain, helped me so Pangbourne, where we went from being much in some tough matches – her 3–0 down to drawing 3–3 in the last Our next matches only got better for us consistent effort and support to the team minute of the match. and really helped us to finish the season was something we all admired and were on a high. We came out on top with a hugely grateful for. We then had a half-term break in which 2–1 victory against Wellington College, the team flew to Malaysia to support who have always been competitive with We will miss the coaches, Mr Head and Epsom College Malaysia, playing a us. Caoimhe Murdock and Maddie Mrs Drinkall, and thank them for all their couple matches against some schools Billings really helped to secure this win, help and advice; they have supported in Kuala Lumpur. Despite the 14-hour with a great goal from Caoimhe and our many seasons at the College and journey we pulled it together as a team Maddie holding strong in the defence. really put our team together. I really and played some of our best hockey. Finally, the season ended with a match enjoyed captaining the team and seeing We worked hard, with strong passages against CLFS. After previously losing to how we all improved each week – it of play, and put away lots of well-worked Freeman’s in the Surrey Schools’ was a great team to be a part of and team goals. Competition in the first Tournament earlier in the season, the play with. game had not been what we had hoped, girls were more determined than ever. however we remained focused. The next With the final score a draw, it was not Caitlin Keep

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Honours

HOCKEY CUP COLTS COLOURS MAJOR COLOURS Caitlin Keep Becki Weller Juliet Ariel Caoimhe Murdock SHAW TROPHY HALF COLOURS Maddie Billings Maddie Billings and Amelia Eimear Monaghan Alice Davidson-Richards Warner for the most improved Roisin Monaghan Caitlin Keep players Lindsay Sinclair INTER-HOUSE SENIOR WINNERS MORTIMER CUP FULL COLOURS Raven Eliza Melville and Alice Alexia Fenn Davidson-Richards for the most Milly Shopland consistent players of the season Eliza Melville Zoe Sciver

Note from the coach: Alice, our vice-captain, was immense throughout, An action-packed season as ever. Holland was she commanded the D and understands her indeed a triumph and Malaysia – such a fabulous position like no other and was player of the match experience that will not be forgotten in a hurry. on a couple of occasions too. Our captain, Caitlin, Other highlights for me were the Christ Hospital who is supremely modest, has led the team well, Tournament (where we were second on the day and I know she will continue to play at university by virtue of ‘corner count’ but were unbeaten and beyond, she is a potent force with lightning throughout) and a solid victory over Wellington. pace and poses problems for many defences; We were certainly not clinical enough in front of fully respected she has grown as a player, but goal at times, but we did make the chances. A particularly as a leader. I am grateful for all the little slow to react to counter-attacks too, but this team’s effort, professionlism, good humour and year was always going to be a rebuilding project. enthusiasm. I look forward to next season with all these players, they have great potential, listen well and An enjoyable, if not faultless, season, and one will, I am sure, benefit from the Australia and both Mr Head and I will reflect fondly upon. Singapore tour in the summer. Mrs F. C. Drinkall Special mentions must go to all of our leavers: Milly Shopland, Alexia Fenn, Zoe Sciver, Jules Ariel, Maddie Billings, Caoimhe Murdock, Alice Davidson-Richards and our captain Caitlin Keep. They all love their hockey, that is for sure.

54 2nd XI P8 | W5 | D2 | L1

An excellent start against St. Mary’s: a hat-trick for Amber Billings up front and plenty to work on in training towards half term. Victory followed victory until we came up against a very powerful Sevenoaks in the first week in October. A frustrating game, we looked in control until we went 1–0 down, then the floodgates opened. We dusted ourselves down before the fixture against Pangbourne; a comfortable 4–0 win set us up for a two-week holiday break, but fitness levels deteriorated. A 2–2 against Cranleigh the first week back was a tough reminder that we still had plenty to do. Thank goodness for our awesome goalkeeper Rachel Payne who kept us in that game.

We drafted in the U15 keeper Harriet Teasdale the following week as Payne was promoted to the 1st team against Bradfield, and we almost played in the dark due to poor light on a very cloudy 3rd XI fantastic team spirit has been their day. A perfectly executed short corner winning formula. Player of the Season hammered home by Sophie Glaas P9 | W5 | L4 goes to Harriet Bantock. Congratulations clinched the win, all those drills in training to Harriet and to all the girls who have definitely worthwhile now! A feisty draw The 3rd team had a very enjoyable each contributed to the success of against Wellington and CLFS kept us season, starting off winning against the the team. lacking a final victory, yet we were still local rivals St. John’s – and we were unbeaten at home – what a great record playing their 2nd team! Other notable Laura Purvis (external coach) and end to the season with all of the wins were against Pangbourne 4–0; U6th leavers playing in the last 15 King’s College, Wimbledon 1–0; Reed’s minutes of the game. Most improved (2nd team) 2–0; Bradfield 8–0 (playing U16 A XI player goes to Amelia Warner; best goal with versatility in this match!). scored goes to Lauren Higgs. We were P9 | W8 | D1 | L0 expertly captained all season, and our Thanks go to the captain, Polly Norkett, thanks go to Katie Adam. who led the team well from centre The girls had an unbelievable season, midfield. Players of the season were remaining unbeaten throughout. This Mrs H. E. Keevil Janine Zager and Katie Patel; these were was not due to one player in particular, the two other midfield players who never but to every member of the squad. They gave up running around! Most improved played with determination, fight and FULL COLOURS player was Amy Gyngell, a very stable consistency, demonstrating a quality Katie Adam centre back. Tiffany Sachak was our which our oppositions couldn’t handle. Felicity Beckett resident left wing, always reaching those From the first training session the girls Sophie Glaas far flung balls! Celine Klein scored many slowly came to understand what we Lauren Higgs goals as centre forward. Well done girls. were trying to do tactically and improved Margaux Monfared Thanks to the U6th girls for guiding the with every game, which was our number Rochelle Smith many L6th through a good senior one focus. Although the girls performed season. well at the County Competition, it was a HALF COLOURS shame it was so early in the term. With a Leah Amin Mrs S. L. Church-Jones little more preparation, I believe they Amber Billings would have challenged for a top four finish. Olivia Gelardi Clare McCallum 4th XI The results speak for themselves. Having Sara Omar P8 | W5 | L2 | D1 conceded only 2 goals over the season Hanna Omar is an incredible feat! This was due to Rachel Payne All the girls worked hard to improve their every member of the team working Amelia Warner skills and fitness. The combination of tirelessly in defence and being backed Jessica Woodley determination, enthusiasm and a up by Charlotte Dialdas, in goal, who

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Colts colours are awarded to:

Charlotte Dialdas Rachel Williams Ellie Payne Lydia Sheils Jodie Koep Isabel Ashe Danielle Tullett Emily Hailstone Tara Dolan Briana Norris Hannah Wilkinson Katherine Davies Rebecca Saunders

when she wanted to be. If she was in U16 B XI the mood, it was brilliant to watch her run the opposition ragged. Thankfully, P8 | W5 | D3 | L0 she was in the mood more times than not. Isabel Ashe started in the midfield This Michaelmas Term marked the final and played steadily. When she was season together for this squad. Led by was outstanding. Lydia ‘the Colonel’ moved to striker, she proceeded to Mr Zacharias as coach, the team finished Sheils was the rock of the team and score goals for fun. Her pace and the season unbeaten with a total of 5 marshalled everyone from defence. She positioning in the D was impossible to wins and 3 draws. The highlights were was supported by Danielle Tullett, who defend and she finished top scorer for probably the hard-fought victories over proved to be impossible to get past. us. Tara Dolan was absolutely electric on Wellington College (1–0) and Brighton Briana Norris was her usual reliable self the right wing and set up about 90% of College (4–0), although the girls’ efforts and was outstanding as right defender. our goals, while scoring a few herself. in every game were outstanding. This Katherine Davies improved with every Rachel Williams played in every position reflection of their hard work was a very game at left defender. Jodie Koep, throughout the season and did it pleasing way to end their time as a team, captain, led by example and was brilliant perfectly. She was relied upon countless and many of them will have a lot to in every game, running the show at times to play all over and she was contribute to 6th-form hockey next year. centre midfield. Emily Hailstone seemed brilliant. Finally, Ellie Payne, who has Special mentions must go to Holly Ellis, to grow in confidence with each match some of the best stick skills around. Her for her work as a forward and consistent and really came into her own by the end control and elimination was brilliant goal scorer, as well as to Gabby Watts of the season, she was a real throughout and the future looks bright. and Imi Bole, who played up for the As, powerhouse at right midfield. on request, when they were needed. From start to finish it was an outstanding Furthermore, Lola Mallardo made her Hannah Wilkinson played quite a few season, and the girls deserve all the debut contribution to the Bs in positions for the team and was credit. It is impossible to select one September and her smooth transition outstanding every time. She seemed player from this team to win an award as quickly made her a very valuable most comfortable at left midfield, where they were all brilliant throughout the member of the team. Congratulations all she mounted attack after attack and season. round! was a constant threat to the opposition. Rebecca Saunders was highly effective Mr C. Bowen Rhiannon Tambini-McGee

56 U15 A XI U15 B XI P1 | W2 | D3 | L5 P9 | W1 | D3 | L5

Maidment Trophy: Freya Gordon As reflected in the results, it has been a A very good term of hockey; each match challenging season, but the girls were was both competitive and exciting. St. fully committed in every game and were George and Cranleigh were very strong very unlucky not to convert the draws opposition; however, in both games the into more wins. The highlight of the second-half score was much better than season was a match against Brighton the first, which was testimony to the College, coming back from 1 goal down effort and diligence of all players after 10 minutes to win with magnificent concerned. strikes from Molly Frazer and Sophia Mavrogalou. We also played some high- U15 C XI Emma Dickinson led the team by quality hockey against Pangbourne and example, offering in a number of in the last game of the season against P10 | W5 | D3 | L2 positions and settling as a strong Freemen’s. member of defence. Rachel Hindley The girls had a great season. They proved to be an assertive player, reading Emma Chandler was highly impressive started off strongly, winning most of their the game very well and often providing in goal all season; Helen Phizackerley games against tough opposition. As a opportunities for an effective counter- and Carla Borkmann were solid in team, the girls jelled really well with each attack. Harriet Teasdale provided us with defence; Molly Frazer captained the player and also showed much excellent cover in goal, making some team with aplomb; and Imy Martin was improvement in their individual positions. exciting saves and keeping us in very effective down the right wing, even Amy Bramworth captained the side well contention. being promoted to the A team for her and showed great control in the midfield efforts. throughout the season. Gaby Orlich and Tilly Alexis created some well-planned attacks on goal up Dr. H. R. Meier Jamie Grant (gap student) front, with Imy Martin, Sophie Nixon and Sophie Mack often finishing the job off. Other impressive performances came U15 D XI from Claire Russell, Ellen Barnes and Hannah Crawley, with a skilful term’s P7 | W1 | L3 | D3 work from Ellie Lee. We were also very The girls have been a great team to grateful to Emma Chandler, who came coach. Two of our members had never out of the U15 B goal to play up front for played hockey before at the beginning of the As, scoring a number of goals in the term and are now playing full games and process. are getting better and gaining more skills every week. The team has played well This is certainly a team with plenty of together and, although it has been a potential and depth. Their commitment fairly disappointing season, they have to fitness often played in their favour in got stronger every week, cumulating in a the closing stages of a game. Freya fantastic win over Sevenoaks to finish off Gordon wins the Maidment Trophy as a the season, where they all played result of her progressive ability to play brilliantly as a team and worked well well in a number of positions with together. dedication and perseverance. Miss L. K. Beesley Miss A. M. R. Wickham

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U14 A XI terrific. Lauren was just fantastic from excellent play, and second, Charlotte P18 | W11 | L0 | D7 start to finish and caused every defence suffered a nasty gash from a flying ball, problems, even the best teams at the which required seven stitches. regional finals could not cope with her. Fortunately, the team was able to I could not have wished for a more She was wonderfully feisty and did bounce back strongly with a great finish determined group of girls to coach. Right everything from holding up the ball to to the season, winning our last match from the very first training session they wait for support, score goals and chase against CLFS 4–0, which was played in applied themselves well. They worked back to defend. She has been my an indoor sports hall, due to a heavy hard at their fitness levels and tried even hockey equivalent of Wayne Rooney at frost! Exceptional skills were shown by harder to put into practice the skills that his very best. In the end, the M4 Player Harriet and Portia Jennings, Izzy Reid were required. of the Season Award could only go to and Issie Dolan up front. The star of the one player, and it had to be Lauren. match was Juyeon Oh, who showed In goal, Julia Holmes stepped up to the great commitment throughout, as well mark to become our last line of defence. Although we tailed off a bit on Saturdays as scoring 2 of the goals. With tremendous courage and lots of after half term, we did play very well commitment she came on leaps and before half term and excelled in the The team’s performance throughout the bounds as the season progressed. Just County Cup and the regionals. After season was solid, all the girls played in front of her, Ellie Rhodes was excellent being beaten twice by Cranleigh in the from the heart, rising to every challenge at reading the game and using her pace season, when we met in the regionals they faced. It was pleasing to see to get us out of trouble. Wide right in we had learned a great deal. If Lauren’s everyone applying Miss Cloonan’s advice defence saw Bella Dialdas performing shot had not hit the post when it was from the training sessions, as well as the role of defender, but also coming 1–0 to them and we were in the picking up new tactical moves – Sophie forward into attack as a wing back in the ascendancy we might have earned a Daubeney certainly took to this, mould of Gary Neville, except Bella is far draw on the day, such was the visible demonstrating her signature move, ‘The less annoying. In central defence, improvement in the team’s progress. Twizzle’ more than once. Elise Mather Frances Payne grew in confidence, and Well done and thanks for making my and Chloe Davies also contributed to certainly did not lack commitment to the final season so enjoyable. each match with their big hits up the cause. She did have a bit of a tendency wing, which proved very helpful in to ball watch at times, which did cost us Mr M. C. Oliver scoring the goals. dear against good sides, but when she was fully focused she was excellent. Zoe Olsen Wide left saw us use both Catrine Gillies U14 B XI and India Wood. Both played really well throughout the season and were P9 | W2 | L3 | D4 U14 C XI consistent at keeping a good close watch on their right winger. The U14 Bs had a promising start to the P8 | W1 | D1 | L6 season, winning our first match at home In midfield, wide right saw us use Tilly against Hurstpierpoint 1–0, a pleasing All the players in this team have made Lundsberg and Gabby Francis. Tilly had first attempt. Unfortunately, we were massive improvements throughout the a bit more pace and athleticism, whereas unable to find the goals in our next few year. Although we had a few losses, Gabby had a bit more stickwork to her matches, although the results didn’t matches were generally competitive and name. Both performed really well, and if reflect our actual capabilities. The girls often lost by only a single goal. The team we had passed more regularly to them I were very committed and worked much was well captained by Rebecca suspect we would have been a bit more better as a team as they got to know Dupenois, there was consistent dangerous in attack. At the bottom of each other more, always trying their defensive play from Bethany Burns and the diamond we had Tamsin Melville, absolute hardest. After 2 losses against dynamic play down the centre by Olivia who is a fine player and reads the game Brighton College and Sevenoaks our Andrews. so well. Her tackling in defensive defence became much stronger, letting situations was excellent, as was her in few goals, which helped us to draw Miss J. Bennett tireless running. Wide left Toni Turner the next three matches. Zoe Olsen was superb and gave 100% in every proved to be a reliable central defender game, while at the top of the diamond and Georgina Hutchings also played a we had the captain Sophie Rumble. big part, using her massive sweep out to Sophie was my copper-coloured top the side. Lily Upot was a solid goalie ‘Duracell’ bunny. Sophie put in more throughout the season making some miles per game than anybody else and fantastic saves, frustrating the opposition led the team by example. on many occasions. Rosie Onlsow-Wyld and Charlotte Bailey also played with Up front we used Lauren Jeffery and great enthusiasm, providing excellent Curly Billings. Curly improved throughout support at the back. the season, and when on top of her game she could run with the ball at pace The match against Wellington College and had a really good strike. The 1st was unfortunate for two reasons: first, goal she scored away at Bradfield was we lost 0–1 despite a brave effort and

58 INTERVIEW WITH THE HEADMASTER During his final week as Headmaster of Epsom College, Stephen Borthwick was interviewed for the Epsomian by his 36th, and last, Head of School, George Lindley.

How did you come to work in education? Having completed my university Physics degree I applied, and was accepted, to do both a research degree in the History and Philosophy of Science and a postgraduate teaching qualification. I gained some experience of schools and began to feel that my long-term future was not in research but in teaching, so I decided to undertake a teacher training qualification before starting my second degree.

What made you decide to become a Headmaster? I don’t think anyone ever aims to be a Headmaster after a life as a classroom teacher. However, I have always looked for a challenge, and my early route, familiar to so many teachers, was in academic book and course writing. For half my teaching career I have been a Headmaster in two schools, but the joy of ‘working on a huge canvas’ is not the right step for everyone; there are losses in becoming a Headmaster. You lose that core connection with your subject and day-to-day life with the pupils changes profoundly.

Would you recommend a career in education to Epsom College pupils? Yes, definitely look at teaching. It is overwhelmingly rewarding and has been a great career for me. I don’t know how many Epsomians have gone on to teach, but I have known a dozen or more who’ve come back to teach here. It is demanding, stimulating and enormous fun … mostly!

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What aspect of College life has changed the most during your time as Headmaster? It is the impact that the girls have made. INTERVIEW I think ‘the women from Venus’ (with apologies to John Gray) have brought us WITH THE HEADMASTER to a new world. From the way that they study to how they play games/perform on stage and the cultural values that they bring; even the way they socialise. The whole College is better than the sum of its parts, powerful though that is. And, I might add, the boys have become better in their traditionally strong areas, for example rugby, football and CCF, even though there are now fewer boys.

Standout sporting memory at the College? Have you ever wished that How will the development There is a bag full of memories: some you could appoint a Head of Epsom College dominatingly successful rugby teams of School who hasn’t Malaysia benefit Epsom beating the toughest schools in the been selected as a Head College pupils here at country; winning the Daily Mail Cup; a of House? home? dozen or more boys playing U16/19 Every year I discuss with the In two clear ways. First, there is the international rugby, with George Lowe Housemasters/Housemistresses and vision. Epsom has become more inward getting his full England cap in South College Prefects whether the group of looking than when I arrived. The College Africa this year; four years of dominance 12 should be widened to include a ‘wild is situated in a rich crescent of wealth, of girls’ hockey by Epsom 1st XI; Eboni card’ – a pupil who is regarded as a the richest part of the European Union; Beckford-Chambers becoming an leading school figure but who has not this tends to encourage us all to think established full England international been selected as Head of House. that we are the centre of the civilised netballer. There was also top-class sport Perhaps unsurprisingly, few are in favour world and that we can remain ignorant from athletes (both boys and girls) and of that change. about the rest of it. Malaysia is a outstanding success from golfers too. commitment by Epsom to another part Lastly, and most famously, for our Do you think Epsom is of the rapidly developing world, and it shooters to win 11 out of the past 17 competitive given its size will make us look outside ourselves. years at the Ashburton at Bisley is an or would you rather it extraordinary achievement for any managed to grow in size? Second, the new Epsom schools in school. Winning last year, on the 150th The College is big enough, just, to offer Kuala Lumpur will be commercial anniversary of the competition, was a real depth and breadth of challenge, but enterprises (unlike this school, which is a big moment! small enough for every child to matter as charity) generating profits, this will give an individual and to be an important part Epsom UK more funds to better widen If you were a student at of the whole community. Bigger schools its original foundation and access Epsom now, what would do struggle to ensure this sense of place through bursaries. be your main sports? for each pupil, although their sheer size I would love to do a single major team brings an advantage to games teams sport and be top class at it, but I’d also and orchestras, for example. Final thoughts? like to be really good at an individual I have to mention the 150th-anniversary sport, such as judo, squash, golf or celebration, because it was the single shooting. Epsom’s access to and Has the recent economic most memorable event in my 12 years. encouragement of these is second to downturn proved a major I’ve already mentioned sporting none. challenge to you? occasions, but, artistically, the most No, we have been fortunate and planned outstanding production we’ve ever done In addition, I would adore the chance to well; it’s been undoubtedly a challenge is the 150th celebration. We wrote, we sing opera in Big School, if only my voice for all parents, who have been squeezed performed and we hired the Royal Albert matched my ambition! by falling resources and rising costs, but Hall – the first school to ever do so, education is, evidently, right at the top of followed, I gather, by other schools in What are your favourite priorities. Berkshire … in fondly looking backwards, traits of Epsom College Epsom created a vision for the future in pupils that you have its theatre, music and opera. noticed? The best trait of our pupils is their active George Lindley respect for each other and what they are doing, even those whom they may dislike and activities they cannot do!

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LES MISÉRABLES LECROSSE NETBALL CAMBRIDGE TRIP FENCING LIBRARY Boys’ Hockey EXTENDED PROJECT QUALIFICATION Football CHAPEL NOTES Squash Ski Trips Rugby 7s NEW YORK DRAMA TOUR

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LENT JANUARY - APRIL 2012

62 28 Play Review: LES MISÉRABLES At the beginning of March 2012, three packed houses in Big School were treated to a powerful and highly convincing performance of the schools’ edition of Les Misérables. Directed by Clare Jeens and Rod Wycherley, and under the musical directorship of Graeme Lodge, the large cast of 43 pupils, plus many off stage and in the ensemble, delivered a performance that was dynamic, vibrant and fast moving.

The ‘schools’ edition’, as it is termed, is, outstanding delivery from many of the in fact, only slightly scaled down from singers, and, in particular, featured Henry the original version of the prestigious Warne in the role of Jean Valjean and musical that has now completed 26 Jake McGrath as Javert. Their powerful continuous years in London. There is voices, together with excellent diction, some streamlining of the size of the cast ensured the audience could concentrate and a slight reduction in the number of fully on the storyline as it unfolded. scenes and episodes, but it, High quality and clear singing was nevertheless, remains a remarkable also a hallmark of other key roles, such challenge for the vocalists in terms of as those of Fantine (Abi Marrow), range and still requires some two and a Cosette (Felicity Green), Eponine half hours to perform. Initially beginning (Rachel Mewett), Marius (Jake as a pipe dream for the producers, the Seabold), Thénardier (Jack Harrison), possibility of staging this version became Mme Thénardier (Lara Treherne), more of a reality once it was established Enjolras (Ryon Head) and Gavroche that the rights were available, and then, (Max Seabold). when considering the potential talent they had at their disposal, they felt sure Reducing a huge novel, as it does, into it would prove to be feasible – if, two and a half hours, the staging The sell-out of tickets in advance of the nevertheless, a shade ambitious! Added requires rapid and effective scene performance had already heightened to this, the accessible content, and the changes, which were a great highlight expectations, and almost as soon as the fact it was a period piece, with all the of this production. From the grim, first performance began the high quality possibilities of costume that presented, forbidding opening scene, through of the production became clear. By the meant that the choice also proved some lively crowd scenes, meetings of time of the interval on the first night the immensely popular for audition among revolutionaries and action on the ‘buzz’ among the Headmaster’s party the pupils. barricades, we also experienced was that that we were experiencing a episodes of great tenderness, such as very special event – indeed, several In the event, everyone’s confidence was those involving the young Cosette commented that they were able to repaid in full by the production that (Hannah Taylor), the wedding scene discern the plot more clearly than in ensued. The strength of the and, finally, the death of Valjean, with West End productions they had performances owed a great deal to Fantine’s ghostly apparition. previously attended!

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64 “...the audience witnessed a performance that will be recorded as among the very best experienced at the College throughout its distinguished tradition of musicals and plays.”

Apart from the excellence of the singing In an historical work of this kind, it is performances, another key to the difficult to overestimate the importance production’s success lay in some very of costume, and in that regard the effective staging. For all of its high quality performance owed much to Kim improvements, Big School still presents Chandley and her highly successful visit certain constraints of space, but, in what to The Haslemere Wardrobe, from which was his last production here, Alex she was able to source the large number Hughes managed to pull off complex of period costumes required. Significant multi-level staging that permitted too, when considering matters of detail, storage, swift scene changes and a was the work done on hair and wigs by clean, but plausible, break between the Kellie Symons and on make-up by Katie various scenes. This was enhanced by Cloonan, often very much against the the energy and commitment of the stage clock in response to the demands of the crew, under the guidance of Eric Huxter rapid scene changes. and Bonnie Cheung, with Max Austin in charge of props. The substantial number As we have come to expect from of these props, together with special previous musicals, the whole effects that included smoke, the firing of performance was underpinned by the weapons and some stunning lighting, splendid musicianship of the ensemble. contributed, in a very tangible way, to The majority of its members consisted of the texture and atmosphere of our own visiting music teachers, but, on the production. this occasion, the pupils too were represented, with William Goddard (flute) and Sarah Chapman (keyboard). The

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ensemble maintained continuity throughout, with the musical numbers dictating the pace and emotional narrative in a very effective way.

In conclusion, it is sometimes difficult, in an age that prefers ‘hype’ to understatement, to record when a genuinely superlative event takes place, but there should be no doubt that, in this case, the audience witnessed a performance that will be recorded as among the very best experienced at the College throughout its distinguished tradition of musicals and plays. The warmest of congratulations are due not only to Graeme Lodge, Rod Wycherley and Clare Jeens (who at the time was only three weeks from her wedding day!), but to the whole cast, ensemble and crew on the standards they attained on those three memorable evenings.

Mr R. Gill

66 NETBALL 1st VII P29 | W1 | L1 | D7

This was another exciting season, with onto a steep learning curve, improved hard-fought matches against strong unbelievably and played with a smile opposition. The team had some excellent through it all! results coupled with one or two disappointments. In a repeat of last year, All of these players, with huge the team were semi-finalists in the contributions also made by Hannah County Tournament and were Bradfield King, Amber Billings, Amelia Warner and runners-up, losing 6–5 to the hosts. Olivia Gelardi from the L6th, played the They played with great determination, game in the best possible spirit and gave especially in the second half of the a lot of pleasure to their supporters – season, when they finally came to terms always much in evidence and with Alice Davidson-Richards’s injury – appreciated by all. and found Katie Adam! As always, they smiled throughout, and deserve a great Liz Robertson (coach) credit for their efforts. Their final match of the season, victory against St. John’s, said everything about their spirit. Their focus was absolute and they won SENIOR CUP: Major Colours: comfortably against the team that had Margaux Monfared (captain) Margaux Monfared, Lauren Higgs, beaten them in the county semi-final – Maddie Billings, Zoe Sciver the smiles said it all! Most Improved Player: Full Colours: The squad consisted of five girls from Katie Adam Katie Adam, Hannah King, Amber the U6th form: Billings, Amelia Warner, Olivia

Gelardi Margaux Monfared, the captain who led by example, whose love of netball was infectious, and who should feel very proud of a job so well done. Lauren 2nd VII Higgs, another netball devotee who never ceased to give 100%, whatever P7 | W5 | L2 the situation, whose very positive attitude rubbed off on the rest. Maddie Billings, a The 2nd VII had an excellent season, after initial losses to King’s Canterbury and very versatile player, whose quiet input Cranleigh they gelled as a team and dominated in the second half of term. A was much appreciated by her team; her particularly close-fought and well-deserved win against Wellington (20–15) was a ability in defence was crucial to their highlight, with the team keeping their heads and adjusting their game play to deal with success. Zoe Sciver, an intelligent player a very strong attack. The culmination of their hard work was a comprehensive win and a hard worker, whose increased over St. John’s in their final game (25–6). Camilla Green was a superb captain, self-confidence this year made her a organising the team and communicating effectively to bring the best out of her players. formidable opponent. Katie Adam, who Felicity Beckett showed determined and fighting play, with improved shooting as the found herself catapulted into the team season progressed. Gemma Pullman showed consistent shooting ability and was when she least expected it, stepped calm under pressure. Eliza Melville and Caoimhe Murdock proved themselves as

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tactical players, switching with ease between attack and defence and providing essential centre court support. Most improved player went to Rachel Mewett, who showed thoughtful and determined play this year. Players of the season were Eimear and Roisin Monaghan, who were impressive and consistent in their defending, and their efforts contributed to many missed goals by our opposition. Overall, an enjoyable season; thanks to a very committed and lovely team.

Dr. R. Dowdeswell

FULL COLOURS Camilla Green Felicity Beckett Caoimhe Murdock Rachel Mewett

HALF COLOURS Gemma Pullman Eliza Melville Eimear Monaghan Roisin Monaghan

68 3rd VII P7 | W6 | L1

The girls were willingly versatile and Senior House showed their competitiveness by winning Netball Standings: very close games against Cranleigh and Bradfield, unfortunately missing out by 5th White just 1 goal to Wellington in their only 4th Rosebery defeat of the season. Harriet Skan 3rd Crawfurd captained the team in an organised and 2nd Wilson positive manner, leading the defence to 1st Raven be the stronger end of the team, making the opposition work hard to score goals. The outstanding player of the season was Leah Amin, who worked tirelessly, U16 A VII and the most improved player was Sarah Chapman who was excellent P6 | W2 | L3 | D1 in defence. The team should be pleased with a well- Claire Oughton (coach) fought season. They developed a maturity and determination to win which they should be very proud of. Against 4th VII tough opposition, when down they With a little more confidence, this group would keep fighting for the win despite of girls should go from strength to P7 | W4 | L2 | D1 the odds. This was demonstrated in their strength next year. match against Eastbourne, where they We had a good season, winning most of came from 11–2 down to get the draw, our matches. Our best games were and in their 2 losses, where they actually Most Valuable against Wellington and Cranleigh, won the second halves. Player: despite narrowly losing to both, as they Felicity Green were very competitive and close They were pleased to make it to the matches and we played well. Shooter of Surrey Schools’ Finals, but they were Most Improved the season: Janine Zager! not confident in their ability to do well, Players: and, therefore, started slowly losing the Rebecca Saunders, Briana Annabel Lindsay first match to an opposition that they Norris were more than capable of beating. When they realised that they could do Colts Colours: well they stepped up a gear, convincingly 5th VII Lydia Sheils winning the last three matches and Rachel Williams P3 | W2 | L1 only narrowly missing a place in the semi-finals. Isabel Ashe Good wins against Reed’s and Felicity Green Wellington and a very close loss to All players developed their skills and Jodie Koep Christ’s Hospital 4th team. The girls netball brains during the term, but the Imogen Bole should be proud of their performance, most improved should go to Briana Hannah Wilkinson hard work and commitment – Norris and Becky Saunders, who Rebecca Saunders well done! started to think and work as a unit in Briana Norris circle defence. Jacqui Hayes (gap student)

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U15 A VII P7 | W4 | L3

This team has grown from a good team to an excellent team, and I have been impressed by the level of commitment the girls have shown. They have shown improvements in their game by applying U16 B VII U16 C VII what they have learned and using it in a competitive environment. They have P6 | W1 | L5 P5 | W1 | L4 demonstrated a good understanding of court space and are starting to work off This was a tough season results-wise for A really positive season from this team, each other’s movement with some this squad. Captain Dialdas kept the despite the defeats! All the girls had impressive passages of play. group together and enthusiasm high really great attitudes the whole way when defeat after defeat crushed their through the season, and the level of Defensively, the U15 A team are spirits. Their 1 win, against Cranleigh, effort could not be faulted. developing well and are starting to saved the day. With solid play in both understand what a tight defence looks attack and defence, week after week, The improvement in everyone’s netball like. The team bond is strong and all the Gabby Watts and Katherine Davies were from the start of term was really positive, girls support each other in a positive and excellently consistent. The shooters and I was really impressed that the girls constructive way. They are able to trained well, hardly missing a goal, but were frequently at training, even in the manage and analyse their own tactical struggled under pressure in match snow. They played solidly as a unit with and technical performance and solve situations. They’ve learned to ‘peel’ pass some marginal defeats – well done girls problems for themselves. It’s been a forward then square and stand ball side and good luck for your senior netball privilege working with the girls this of their opposition – all these fine skills next year! term, and with the right level of support will be used as they enter the senior they could go on to become a top squads next season. Mrs R. Young winning team.

Mrs H. E. Keevil Beverly Bostock (coach)

70 U15 B VII U15 C VII P7 | W6 | L1 P6 | W4 | L2

This team has been brilliant all season This team has played consistently all and dominated every game they have season. They have approached every played. They start every game with match with enthusiasm and energy and vigour and their team spirit and fantastic have shown real commitment. They play carries them through. Out of the have coped with lots of changes, due to seven matches they played they lost some players being moved up to the B only one, to Eastbourne (away), and it team and others being injured, but this was only by 2 goals. Notable wins were has not affected them at all. They are a against Bradfield (54–12), Wellington lovely team, all prepared to play any (40–15), Caterham (33–8) and St. John’s position for the sake of the team, and (51–5). Good play girls! very supportive of each other. The defence have been particularly strong, We had a great team with some switches with Izzy Gathercole as goalkeeper and between the A and B team – Evie Steph Boote as goal defence. Tselentakis was often picked as the player of the match by the opposition; Jane Arnett (coach) U15 E VII Emma Borch played both defence and attack for A and B teams; Molly Frazer P3 | W0 | L3 played a stable goal attack; Hannah U15 D VII Crawley was a stable goal defence; This team played just a handful of Sophie Nixon was a very much needed P4 | W1 | L3 matches this term, and, with so many goalkeeper, making great interceptions, girls to play, it meant there were lots of especially in the Cranleigh match, The girls had mixed success in their changes for the team to cope with. which we only just won: 22–18!; Freya matches, but they always played with a However, the team played well in the Gordon – you need to slow down as good team spirit and lots of enthusiasm. circumstances and there was a great wing defence; Carla Borkmann – There was definite progress towards the team spirit. All the girls were very switched position when needed; and end of the season. Imy Martin played supportive of each other and enjoyed Ellie Lee and Claire Russell played well in with consistency at centre, which playing together. Phoebe Gibson should the centre court. provided a strong link for the rest of the be noted for her consistent and athletic team, and Harriet Teasdale should be play as centre. Mrs S. J. Church-Jones noted for always working hard and listening well. Alice Scott (gap student)

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FENCING Michaelmas Term was a successful term for the Epsom fencing team. The 1st Foil team of Peter Wilkin (captain), Philipp Cramer, Matthew Chen and Rickie Wong were unbeaten in matches against all the regular opponents.

1st team results: victories over Tonbridge and KCS In addition to school fixtures, several Wimbledon, beating both nine games to members of the team have taken part in Tonbridge 8 – 1 nil. However, St. Paul’s and Worth national and county competitions. In schools put out strong teams which January, Philipp Cramer came second in KCS Wimbledon 5 – 4 narrowly beat Epsom. the U18 Foil Competition at the Surrey Charterhouse 9 – 0 Youth Championships, held at Epsom Epsom’s sabre team, represented by College. Peter Wilkin and Philipp Cramer Worth 7 – 2 Matt Chen, Rickie Wong and Andrew also took part in the Public Schools’ Lim, beat Worth 45–41, and the sabre Fencing Championships, held at Crystal match against Tonbridge was one of the Palace in March. In the Senior Foil Philipp Cramer also came second in the most exciting matches of the season. Competition, which continued into the South East Region Intermediate The advantage swapped back and forth evening, Peter Wilkin came 18th and Competition, in November. between each team during the match, Philipp Cramer came eighth, out of a but Matt Chen finally clinched it for total of 102 entries. The 2nd team did not fare quite so well, Epsom in the final minute – the final but Andrew Lim, Tommy Ellison and score being 45–44. Very many thanks go to Peter Wilkin for Shen Deng Fam showed much his role as captain of fencing, and, as improvement throughout the term and The annual Quadrangular Competition always, the team would like to thank fought hard to come back from 4–0 was hosted at St. Paul’s School, in their coach, Joe Shackell, for all his help down to win 5–4 against Worth’s 2nd March, between St. Paul’s, Epsom and support. team in the last match of the term. College, KCS Wimbledon and CLFS. Philipp Cramer won all his six bouts, Lent Term was also a successful one for which helped to secure the Ian Keeble Dr. A. W. Hughes the Epsom fencing team, although some Foil Trophy for the third year in of the opposition offered more of a succession. Epsom achieved second challenge in their return matches this place overall in the competition, only 2 term. The 1st Foil team achieved clear points behind the winners.

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1st XI were denied a goal by some fine saves from the Sutton Valence goalkeeper. P13 | W7 | L4 | D2 Towards the end of the half, however, Small was deliberately taken down in After a summer tour to South Africa and front of goal. He held his nerve to convert a trip to Malaysia over October half term, the resulting penalty flick to giveE psom the College 1st team were feeling a deserved 1–0 lead at half-time. Sutton unusually well prepared for the season Valence came back strongly after the controversially disallowed Epsom goal ahead. First up, the squad travelled to restart and levelled the scores. The with 15 minutes to go would have Hurstpierpoint College to take part in a College side responded with great been awarded, it would have set up a pre-season Triangular Tournament determination, and with 15 minutes left tense finale. against St. George’s College and the Ben Kirby made a decisive tackle in the host school. The two matches followed opposition’s 25 that led to Small After not playing or training for a 2-week a similar pattern, with the College side receiving the ball in a congested D. The period due to the snow, we were keeping the ball well and creating captain took a snap reverse hit shot that somewhat surprised to hear that our numerous scoring opportunities. Hugo beat the keeper, putting Epsom in front match against Tonbridge was going Coleman scored the only goal of the first again. With Tom Williams dominating the ahead on a Thursday afternoon prior to half from a short corner and Peter Small midfield and the defence remaining half term. Epsom battled hard on a secured the result with a reverse stick structured and disciplined for the water-based AstroTurf pitch that always strike from the top of the D – the game remainder of the half, Epsom held gives an advantage to Tonbridge. We finished 2–0. The same two scorers out for a well-earned victory. didn’t take our chances and were gave a repeat performance in the match hampered by injuries. Despite a really against Hurstpierpoint for another Our second encounter was with good defensive performance, we lost 2–0 win. Cranleigh; we knew it would be a difficult late on to a short corner and were game after losing 8–1 last season and unlucky not to get a draw. In the first block fixture of the season, them being the reigning National the team held their form to emerge from Schools’ champions. We had little The College side entered the Surrey a tight away game against Sutton possession throughout the game, but County Championships and performed Valence with a 2–1 victory. Epsom showed great grit and determination to strongly in the group. With strong wins dominated the first half of the match but end the game 2–0 to Cranleigh, if a against Caterham (1–0) and Strodes

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Bradshaw did well to make initial saves. We came out after half-time determined to get something from the game, and Small managed to score an equaliser with 15 minutes left. Strong and determined defending ensured the game ended 2–2, a fair result.

Our final game of the regular season was against Lancing. We were determined to end the season with a win, and a disciplined performance saw the College side go into half-time 1–0 up after Ralph Haville scored his 1st goal of the season. Despite numerous short corners and chances in the second half, we were unable to find the back of the net again, despite having a Williams drag flick goal disallowed, and managed to hold out for victory.

Our season can be summed up by strong defence and consistent attack, scoring 22 goals and conceding only 8 in 13 games. All of our games were either won or lost by no more than 2 goals (except Strodes), and had we put away some of our chances in crucial games, we could have got results (9–0), along with a 1–1 draw against Eastbourne was definitely our most against Tonbridge, Reed’s and Charterhouse, this ensured we ended frustrating game of the season. We Eastbourne. The playing record up as group winners. This put us through seemed to dominate play, have lots of demonstrates that this has been the to face a strong Reed’s side in the possession and string good sets of College’s best season for many years. county semi-final. The side started too passes together, which culminated in slow and we found ourselves 1–0 down lots of chances. However, we just could Peter Small (captain) within the first five minutes, the only not put any chances away against an score of the first half. After a England U18 keeper, and somehow disappointing first half we came out firing lost late on to a converted Eastbourne in the second, and were able to create a short corner. Major Colours: lot of chances in search of the equaliser. Reed’s good defending and some poor The game against Charterhouse was Hugo Coleman decision making at times was costly, and one of our best performances of the Ben Roe the game ended 1–0. season. Against a strong opposition we Ben Kirby were able to have great spells of Tom Williams Whitgift are one of the top hockey possession, and we created good schools in the country, but we managed chances throughout. Roe managed to Daniel Bradshaw to win 2–0 against them in an impressive poke in a reverse stick shot from Robbie Peter Small display, particularly at the back, where MacDonald to give Epsom the lead; Robbie MacDonald Coleman was outstanding. Kirby and however, Charterhouse replied strongly Ben Roe scored the goals. to claim 2 rather soft goals after Dan

74 2nd XI P6 | W1 | L4 | D1

The emotions experienced by those who take part in school sport can run the gamut from exhilaration to despair, but, sadly, this year’s 2nd XI found themselves suffering far more frustration in defeat than revelling in joyful triumph. In short, the team battled valiantly against a number of strong opposition sides, but was regularly undone by more skilful players, and they finished the season with just 1 hard-fought win to show for their efforts. There were heavy defeats inflicted by the likes of Eastbourne College and Cranleigh, although Max Skan’s tireless determination in goal actually prevented these from becoming rugby scores. Teagan Pitout played a captain’s role in bringing both tenacity and skill to the midfield, while ChrisD u Toit’s barrelling runs and powerful drag flicks caused manifold problems and Caitlin Keep’s tidy stick skills embarrassed a few chaps along the way, but the team’s ball retention was not good enough and silly mistakes were all too common. The highlight of the Cranleigh were dispatched with clinical season was undoubtedly the 2–0 victory ease: 3–0, but it could have been many against Lancing in the very last match, more. Whitgift, always a strong hockey and this at least allowed the boys school, were incredibly fortunate to (and girl) to walk away with their heads escape with a 1–1 draw, after managing held high. only two meaningful shots in the game dominated by Epsom, with Theo Mr M. Zacharias Jennings and Dan Stanton marauding down the right-hand side. Eastbourne (a 2–0 victory) offered little resistance to the 3rd XI growing momentum of the 3rd XI juggernaut, ably captained by the calm, P6 | W3 | L2 | D1 collected and ferociously fit Angus Martin. In practice games, the 2nd XI The 3rd XI proved to be a motivated, and U16 Bs were put to the sword: we finished as the stronger side, even determined and successful unit this year. confidence was high. on a day of unseasonal warmth that The first fixture of the year saw an brought butterflies and birdsong to the unavoidably under-prepared side However, at this point the season was idyllic downland setting. As the game chastened by the stick skills and ‘witty interrupted by cancelled games and foul and season concluded, the 3rd XI were banter’ of Reed’s in a humbling 2–0 weather. Key players were promoted to 3–1 victors, with the final goal being defeat. From this point on, however, the 2nd XI and positional duties needed neatly slotted away by the most progress was rapid. Inspired by the to be reassigned. Thus, when fixtures improved player of the season, James implacable Mr Thomas’s gruelling fitness resumed, the 3rd XI were not ready for ‘Bouka’ Booker. More importantly, they regime, the 3rd and 4th squad quickly the challenge of Charterhouse (a 4–1 knew that over the past few weeks they cohered into a combative and athletic defeat). This meant that the season had become something more than unit – possibly the fittest team in the concluded with Epsom needing an away merely winners: they had become a College. As Ollie Fox noted, on so many win at Lancing to secure a winning team. What more can be achieved in occasions, ‘great intensity’ became the season. However, the 3rd XI more than any season? hallmark of each practice. Coaching coped with this test. Lancing’s defence sessions were invariably based upon was repeatedly shredded by pacy Dr. I. McClure mastering the ‘pass-and-move’ style of forwards, now trained to shoot on sight: play beloved of Dr. McClure. His the stalwart back four held firm to repel memorable Zen-like apothegms (“slow is a spirited fightback, led with purpose, 4th XI smooth – and smooth is fast”) helped presence and occasional brutality by engender confidence, and soonE psom most valuable player Max Gathercole. P5 | W3 | L1 | D1 were playing with fluency and style. Most significantly, fitness levels ensured

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Colts A against Cranleigh! Harry Allen developed None of us really knew how good a into an excellent sweeper, reading the keeper Lumsden actually was until the P8 | W2 | L4 | D2 game and distributing effectively, but all Charterhouse game, so little had he the defenders deserve credit for their been tested hitherto, although in that A season that promised much, but doggedness. As they became more match he played exceptionally well to fizzled out in the end, as scoring goals confident on the ball they enhanced the keep us in the game until the end. Above became seemingly impossible. This was, team’s attacking prowess, enabling the all, the defensive players allowed those however, the only disappointing part of a midfielders to push further forward. in midfield and higher to play with generally positive season. freedom. At its best, against Cranleigh, Amal Patel scored an outrageous hat- their movement off the ball was excellent, It would not be unfair to say that a trick at Tonbridge to enhance his status, and a 4–0 victory was a heartening result neutral would not have enjoyed many of along with Ben Giles, as one of the most early in the season. One goal, scored our matches, as defences remained improved players, while mercurial Charlie very simply with a tap in, was an resolutely on top. Seven goals scored Dockery was at the fulcrum of all that excellent piece of end-to-end passing and not many more conceded in 10 was creative in the team. Up front, Myles that made the game look deceptively matches tells its own story. Pittam and Ollie Costain did everything easy; another goal, scored by Wakefield, right bar score, and they will score many was a remarkable piece of finishing. In most games, a failure to convert the in the coming seasons I am sure. All chances that were created undid the players worked hard in training to An ugly win against Whitgift (we just hard work and skill that had gone into improve, and many will progress to 1st- couldn’t make use of all the possession) the build-up, while the less said about team status next year. and a decent win against Eastbourne the deficiencies of our short corners the left the team unbeaten with two matches better. Only in the last game against Mr A. J. Bustard to go. However, the winning of games Trinity 2nd XI did the defence crack bred an overconfidence that meant under pressure, and, at times, the whole aspects of the team’s play – in particular team’s performance was excellent. Colts B XI their ability to pass quickly and accurately under pressure – didn’t develop over the A powerful Cranleigh team were played P5 | W3 | L1 | D1 season. Against a very good twice and held to a draw and a 1-goal Charterhouse side, who did keep defeat, while all-conquering Whitgift A first half truncated by snow and frozen possession far better, we were were forced into unbelievable levels of pitches meant the season struggled to outpassed and outplayed, and given skill to score their 3. Eastbourne were take off. The squad were a highly something of a lesson, losing 3–2. The outclassed but stole a victory, while confident group of players who had last game against Trinity was played in Charterhouse were let off the hook too, enjoyed success based, above all, on sweltering conditions. Not having a due to an inability to finish. Towards the pace and fitness, although there was substitute that day cost us I think, as we end, heads dropped when a goal was certainly talent in the team too. The pace were unable to hold onto the lead and conceded, as the belief in ever scoring and determination of the defence was finished the season with an exhausting again ebbed away! impressive all season, not conceding a draw. It was, therefore, something of a goal in any of the early games. Goldberg, shame that the season petered out Goalkeeper Santiago Becker was Cresswell, Jagger and Watson were all a little. outstanding all season, saving us in quick and determined, making the many games, although, sadly, he will be opposing forwards’ task very hard Within the midfield and attacking most remembered for his aberration in indeed. Behind them, Young, as elements of the team, Seabold, kicking the ball outside the circle in the sweeper, read the game very well and Wakefield and Sciver all stood out in Surrey County Championships match distributed intelligently. particular – Seabold, for his pace and

76 reading of the game; Wakefield, as he is ball movement. There is plenty of a natural striker and good all-round potential in this group of boys, both as player; and Sciver, in central midfield, for individuals and as a team, when they his ability to run the game. Ashie was a pull it all together at the same time. mercurial left-midfield player, who could be devastating at times; Grant had Miss A. M. R. Wickham exceptional pace and was a willing student of the game; and at different stages the hard-working Warne, Green Junior Colts B XI and Smith all made their mark, the latter pair often playing in the A team. They P6 | W1 | L4 | D1 were a fun side to work with and to watch, always playing competitively, but in exactly the right spirit. Junior Colts C XI Mr M. C. Conway P6 | W5 | L1 Next up was a stronger Whitgift School side, but again the team raced into an This team had a hugely successful early lead, with Callum Watson, now Junior Colts A season, mainly due to their competitive proving a very effective ball striker and nature and athleticism rather than brilliant powerful centre forward, providing the P9 | L9 hockey skills. They dominated teams on bulk of the goals. This was the first game grass, playing a very direct brand of the defence came under concerted The first challenge of the season was to powerful hockey. Energy and effort were pressure, and it more than played its find a new goalkeeper. The team were key and playing for each other made part in a deserved 3–1 victory. very grateful to Vincent Chow for them almost unbeatable. Indeed, their stepping up and playing for both the A 100% winning record was only ended in The next week saw a convincing 5–1 and B sides for the first half of term. the final game of the season, when victory against Eastbourne, with Theo Vincent proved to be a genuine asset to playing on a massive AstroTurf pitch Wilson, Tife Ajibade and Will Boughton the side, saving a lot of mighty attempts away at Trinity. Every player in the squad all starring. Will Candy was continuing to from what was mostly very strong contributed significantly, especially as lead from the front as centre midfielder opposition. As a result of his tireless there were frequent changes due to a and an excellent captain. effort and great performances, he significant number of promotions to the was voted most improved player of Junior Colts B team. By now all the talk was of an unbeaten the season. season, which was very premature as The season began with a 10–0 victory we faced a physical Charterhouse team Chris Cody made an excellent captain, away at Sutton Valence, with an in our penultimate game. Angus Hyams leading from the front and often astonishing double hat-trick from Max made a number of key saves in goal and dominating play. While it was clear that Holder, in his one and only game for the we were able to scrape home 2–0 – we would have our work cut out for C team before he got promoted to the B once again it was a strong defensive us during the season, significant team. A much stiffer challenge was performance, with Tom Baker starring at improvement in defence, specifically presented by Cranleigh in our second the back. Which brings us back to the with channelling and marking, led to game of the season, but it was becoming aforementioned final game of the season more favourable scorelines. apparent that we could dominate teams, against Trinity. In honesty, there was mainly because of an excellent blend probably a degree of overconfidence As the team continues to move up the of determination and skill from our going into this match. At half-time we school, I am sure they will find success midfield. Will Candy and Sungmin Cho were lucky to be only 1–0 down, but a as they improve the quality of their were instrumental in a hard-fought stirring second-half display saw us lay passing, decision making and off-the- 4–1 victory. siege to their goal. Posts were hit, their

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Nevertheless, the boys all played well played the game to our advantage – and improved with every game. They often using strength and speed rather competed in every fixture, slightly than poise and precision – and ended unlucky not to win or draw a few up winning or drawing two thirds of our matches, but, ultimately, their matches. The wins came against Sutton inexperience showed through as the Valence and Whitgift, and special results didn’t go our way. However, the mentions go to Harry Williams, for aim was to improve and develop the captaining the side; Ed Dennis, for some boys for later years in the sport, and I excellent keeping; and Pete O’Brien, for believe they are on the right track. Only playing well enough to get promoted to time will tell, but this bunch are keen, the B team. eager to learn, athletic and, with their temperament and drive, the future is Dr. H. R. Meier goalkeeper was outstanding and looking very bright. chances were fluffed. At the final whistle there was initial disappointment at losing, The Player of the Season Award must U14 D XI but that soon subsided to pride, both in go to Isaac Braithwaite, who, having terms of that performance and for the never played in goal before, was P5 | W4 | L1 efforts over the season. outstanding and his confidence grew with every game. The most improved This season has been most successful; It had been a very good season, and players were Oscar Waite and Nick the team lost just one match. The star credit should go to the whole team, not Whitehead. Nick only started playing player and top goal scorer this season just those mentioned here. A big thank hockey in January and was selected, was Hamish Bantock, that said, you also to the significant number of along with Oscar, to play in the U15 everyone has contributed to the team in parents who attended and offered their Surrey Competition, where they both one way or another. vocal support, always outnumbering the performed very well. opposition team’s parents! We have triumphed against strong Mr C. Bowen opposition such as Charterhouse, Mr R. S. Willis Whitgift, Sutton Valence and Eastbourne. This is a very good set of results, U14 B XI particularly as most of us have never Junior Colts D XI P6 | W2 | L3 | D1 played hockey before. P6 | W1 | L3 | D2 Our thanks go to our hockey coaches: The season playing record does not tell Fr. Paul Thompson and Mr MacDowel. This team completed a reasonable the full story. Matches were lost to bad season, losing half of the fixtures played. weather, and even the last game was Alfie Aukett (captain) They found goal scoring a problem, and curtailed prematurely. The squad was their only victory came against helped having Mr Bowen as the A-game Eastbourne when A-team regular Aidan coach who could feed in good drills. U14 E XI Smith netted 4 times in a 6–1 rout. Omar Said was the standout player of the It is always good to see B-team players P4 | W1 | L1 | D2 season, closely followed by goalkeeper move up to the A team, and this Bryan Lao, who was the most improved. happened in several instances, namely The squad enjoyed a good season. He and a determined defensive unit kept Won Suk Lee, Nicholas Long, Harry Several talented players made their way the team in plenty of the games with Williams and Nick Whitehead. There was up the rankings as their individual skills many brave stops. great effort in training, notably Harry blossomed. Regular wins over the U14 Roberts diving head first into a tackle D team showed the spirit in the side. Mr N. R. Taylor and Mr K. Siviter and then having to take several days off Games with a head injury. I very much Performances in matches gradually enjoyed coaching the side and hope improved as players got used to playing U14 A XI they will be able to improve on this a new game. High-scoring draws away playing record next term. to Eastbourne and Charterhouse P8 | W1 | L5 | D2 showed the attacking flair in the side, Mr N. S. A. Payne but they also highlighted some defensive This team was very much focused weaknesses that need to be sorted out around player development, as many in the future. had never played the sport previously. U14 C XI Plenty of emphasis was placed on the William Morris proved an excellent basics of the game and they all took to it P6 | W2 | L2 | D2 captain and goal scorer. Rhys Waskett well. Unfortunately, starting hockey at 13 had the pace and skill to worry any put us on the back foot immediately, as The season started off with the peculiar defence and was often too quick for his many of the fixtures were against challenge of converting a team of own team! schools that play at junior age groups gnarled rugby players into something and at various local clubs. resembling a hockey team. But we Mr A. Wolstenholme

78 ASSOCIATION FOOTBALL 1st XI 3rd XI P6 W1 D1 L4 P5 W2 D0 L3

A good year for the 1st XI, where The 3rd XI had mixed fortunes this I consider they have worked hard as season. Good wins against Christ’s a team. Hospital and Eastbourne, but a disappointing performance against Without as many gifted individuals as in RGS Guildford. The highlight of the previous years, they have performed season was a spirited effort against very well, and have certainly put the Charterhouse, despite the loss. effort in on a Saturday. While there have been a few defeats, the 1st XI have been to some good footballing schools, and 4th XI to beat RGS was a cracking result. I hope they’ve enjoyed it. P4 W1 D1 L2

Sadly for the Falcons, the season 2nd XI finished all too quickly. At half-time in their first match they were 3–0 down as P5 W0 D1 L4 they were just getting to know each other; but, despite multiple substitutions, The most pleasing thing, however, was Despite failing to record a win, every they improved, winning the second half not the results, it was the way they match was close and well contested, 1–0, falling short of the comeback. To worked as a squad. No one moaned at and they deserved some better results. lose by the odd goal at Christ’s was being substituted or not getting a full The highlight was an excellent draw indicative of another strong all-round game, but everyone gave their all when against the mighty Charterhouse, which squad effort. they came on the pitch and supported was hard fought and well deserved. the team when they were off it. With In the penultimate match, at home to a couple more games they would Guildford, they came from behind to lead almost certainly have finished with 3–1 against strong opposition, but were a winning season. unable to hold out. In the final game they got the reward of a fully deserved first win: 5-0 away to Eastbourne, and it could have been more.

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FOOTBALL 1st XI Colours 2ND XI Colours XXXXs Colours

MAJOR COLOURS: FULL COLOURS: T. Plumbridge Ollie Weir (Player of the Season) J. Button, W. Ward, C. Twyman, A. Fadojutimi FULL COLOURS: S. Dutt, M. Chow, E. East, C. Naylor, HALF COLOURS: M. Dialdas, A. Whitehead, T. Adeoye, J. Hanley, T. Jennings W. Stodhart, M. Taylor, L. Oldershaw, O. Dennis XXXs Colours HALF COLOURS: A. Hinds, S. Sander, F. Pearce J. Hamill, J. Kibblewhite, H. Smith, B. Grant, P. Atkinson, K. Patel SENIOR COMPETITION WINNERS: Fayrer

80 Squash

Boys’ Squash

The opening weeks of term saw our 1st Boys’ squash enjoyed a successful V and U14 V play schools such as Michaelmas Term, with a young squad, Harrow, Eton, RGS Guildford, Trinity, Charterhouse, Cranleigh, Reed’s and captained by Oliver Costain, gaining Wellington. These matches included our annual National Cup participation, great experience playing against more in which we won two of our group established teams. fixtures. Moreover, in our annual Epsom

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Tournament, held in early December, the team played Whitgift, King’s Canterbury, Girls’ Squash Harrow and Charterhouse, finishing a highly respectable fourth overall in This was a mixed, but exciting, year for in winning their own matches, Wycombe the competition. the girls’ squash team. Following their Abbey eventually won by three matches success as runners-up at the National to two. Although this was a disappointing However, although traditionally a busy Schools’ Squash Championships the result, Alice’s unexpected absence from affair, the Lent Term was noticeably quiet year before, hopes were high that they the team made way for some talented on the squash front. A succession of could make it back to Manchester for new M4 players, including Gabby postponed matches, versus Harrow and the second year running. With fewer Francis, Astrid Molke and Beth Burns – Reigate, for example, limited the amount friendly matches than usual to allow for all of whom have represented the school of actual court time in the term. That nationals fixtures, the girls got off to a this year. Under Jodie Koep’s captaincy said, the team still produced rousing great start, with a convincing win against and with training from our coach, Neil performances against St. Paul’s and close rivals Cranleigh. Suddenly, Frankland, we look forward to seeing Whitgift, losing the former and winning however, our chances against Wycombe some great squash played by these girls the latter. Moreover, the central aim was Abbey in the qualifying rounds looked as they build up their match experience, to gain promotion to Division 1 of the bleak, as our second string, Alice and we wish them lots of luck for the Roehampton Tournament, an objective Davidson-Richards, was forced to pull new season. that was duly achieved in late January. out due to injury. Despite Jodie Koep Indeed, Oliver Costain, Ben Kuhler, and Rachel Mewett’s steely determination Miss H. Brabham Alastair Green, Jodie Koep and James Parkinson all performed to a high standard throughout the tournament and were unstinting in their efforts for the team. They played (and won) matches against Lord Wandsworth, Dulwich, CLFS, KCS Wimbledon (semi-final) and Marlborough (final).

As the Roehampton organisers commented: “The whole competition was deservedly won by Epsom College ... the champions are remarkable for at least two reasons: the young age of the team (who will be together for probably two more years and are likely to challenge again, having been promoted to Division 1) and for being the first team in Division 2 to include a young lady, an extremely competent fourth string.”

Therefore, although a quiet term, Lent Term produced performances which clearly bode well for the future. In

Awards: Colours:

BOYS’ JUNIOR PLAYER OF FULL COLOURS: THE YEAR: Hayden Smith Alastair Green COLTS COLOURS: BOYS’ SENIOR INDIVIDUAL: Oliver Costain Ben Kuhler Ben Kuhler addition to the players themselves, thanks go to Mr. Johnstone and our MOST IMPROVED PLAYER: external coaches, Neil and Mike, for their Jodie Koep efforts on behalf of the teams, not forgetting the magnificent transportation BURRAGE CUP: talents of Phil and Glyn. Oliver Costain

Oliver Costain and Dr. M. A. L. Tod

82 Senior Rugby 7s

Training for the 7s season started in January, and in the early days the tournaments seemed a long way off, but as half term approached the sense of anticipation began to rise. A strong squad was assembled, with plenty of back- up in case of injury.

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Graham, the Harlequins 7’s coach. They quickly established a rapport with the players and the defensive pattern was finally resolved. The side made steady progress through the group and knockout stages before defeating Whitgift in the quarter-finals, which put us into a semi-final rematch v Wellington. This proved to be very exciting, as the College eased away at the end for a 25–12 win. The final against Filton College proved a step too far, losing 14–21, despite a strong comeback that nearly led to a score in the last play of the game.

Heading to the Rosslyn Park National Finals, it was clear that the squad had every chance of a good run. The group The early warm-up tournament at Alex Aves was also good news. The was negotiated with few problems, as Wellington College on a Sunday at the Reigate VIIs was the first major was the play-off game against Sherborne end of half term was a good chance for tournament in early March. The that put us through to the second day both the A and B squads to stretch their competition attracts top sides from the and the final rounds. Here we met legs against decent opposition and for South of England, so it would be a Oratory School, who we beat relatively players to state a claim for inclusion in serious test of our ability. In terrible comfortably to set up a quarter-final with the final squad. In tricky conditions, the conditions, steady progress was made Stowe. It was a shock to go out at this A VII showed glimpses of class in attack, through the rounds, with the best result stage, but Stowe retained possession didn’t lose a game and a narrow win being a 19–14 win over a powerful well and we simply couldn’t get enough over Wellington raised expectations and Cranleigh side in the semi-final. The ball. Wellington went on to win the showed what might be possible. final against much-fancied Brighton tournament in the final, which really Meanwhile, the B VII, playing against A ended in a 36–12 win. At times the rubbed salt into the wound! VIIs, were playing well and running every attacking play was exceptional, with team close, much to the appreciation of Jordan Burns playing outstandingly well I would like to thank the squad for their the crowd. in the conditions. efforts, and also Mr Young, Mr Stone and Mr Drinkall for all their support in the With lessons to be learned, more focus The build-up to the Surrey VIIs included training sessions. in training started to show and the return sessions from Mike Friday, the former of Ollie Ramagge, Jordan Burns and England VII’s coach, and Howard Mr A. Wolstenholme

84 Colts 7s Large numbers turned out for training, following a successful XV’s season, but the season got off to a mixed start as both of our warm-up tournaments were cancelled unexpectedly. The only practice we had going into our primary competition was a friendly practice match against CLFS. Although this was not the toughest competition, it still proved a useful learning experience for the team as we learned more about our 7s ability.

With another week of hard training, the Mount St. Mary’s (31–5) and Bristol match, but at half-time we had a 12–5 team felt prepared going into the Rosslyn Grammar (24–12). The group stage had lead from more clinical tries. The second Park 7s Competition. However, with a been very successful, with nearly the half got off to a disappointing start, with transfer of James Smith to the forwards whole team contributing with tries, and a quick try from Dulwich. We struggled and the loss of James Francis to getting through the group was, in itself, to find the space we needed to create international duty, we were lacking a massive achievement for the team. chances and poor decision making led numbers in the backs, although with the to a further Dulwich try. In the last minute likes of Fabian Lumsden, a Norwegian By this stage in the day the team was we scored 1 more try out wide, leaving International, we were not so worried. exceptionally tired, particularly due to the us with a difficult conversion chance to The day got off to a promising start, with hot weather and lack of players, and so get the draw. However, it wasn’t to be, a 24–7 victory over St. Columba’s progress from this stage was always and we lost by 2 points: 17–19. College, with several tries from Cian going to be a challenge. However, the Barry, who used his pace around the team put in another great performance Overall, the day was a great success for outside. However, the backs were further against Bromsgrove. Early tries and the team, and with a few more players depleted as we lost another ‘pace man’ good defence led to a good win (27–14), to allow others to rest it could have been (Ben Giles) to injury. Our next game was with tries from Cian Barry, Myles Pittam a different story. Thanks to Mr Whiteley against our local rivals St. John’s (Surrey and Harry Wakefield. This victory meant and Mr Matthews for bringing on our 7s Champions). The match produced that we had progressed to the final 16 of 7s massively over the few weeks we some of our best 7s, with great defence the competition. The opposition we were together. and clinical attacking play resulting in an faced next were Dulwich, a team we emphatic 25–5 victory. We followed this knew well from our regular 15s season. Myles Pittam, Matt Nolan and up with two more good victories over This was always going to be a tough Ben Woollams

The girls’ 1st VII successfully defended their Reigate Charity 7s title with a depleted squad of just 8 players but conceded only one try all day as they stormed to victory.

Reigate Grammar provided stiff competition in the final, but the Epsom girls confirmed their status as tournament favourites with a 20-0 win. Captain Rochelle Smith was named Player of the Tournament for the second year running.

The squad was delighted to be presented with their trophy by Ben Cohen, a member of the 2003 England Rugby World Cup winning squad.

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EPSOMIAN 12 Lacrosse During the Lent Term, the M4 lacrosse team journeyed to three schools, narrowly losing to Cranleigh by 1 goal, defeating Coloma Convent School 8–2 and, most recently, falling to Guildford 4–5. All three schools field multiple lacrosse teams and train many times a week – Guildford’s 1st team have recently been named national champions – thus testifying to the natural talent of the Epsom team.

The girls have been spirited and Sophie, improved immensely over the enthusiastic this year, absorbing new season. Lauren Jeffrey, Izzy Dolan and skills and showing raw athletic ability. Frances Payne all made significant Special mention must be made of Bella attacking contributions as well. Other Dialdas, who performed admirably as M4s who contributed to the team effort goalkeeper throughout the season. include: Chloe Davies, Juyeon Oh, Zoe Portia Jennings, Catrine Gillies and Olsen, Gabby Francis, Becky Nesbit, Sophie Daubeney served as captains India Wood and Harriet Jennings. over the three matches. Izzy Reid, who handled draw controls along with Miss K. D. Cloonan Lord Rosebery Lecture Series This year the series threw its net wide and invited journalists, political operators and bankers to brave the decisions of tomorrow. This year the series began with an and current Political Director of the responsibility for the global crash. To an address by John Mulholland, editor of TaxPayers’ Alliance, braved the depths audience that was less than sympathetic the Observer. He spoke on the role of of winter and heavy snow to speak on to his cause at the start of the evening, the Observer as a crusading paper – who holds the moral high ground – the Mr Chandler managed to persuade looking first at its involvement in the press or politicians. His erudite many in the audience by the end that it opposition to apartheid in South Africa presentation was based on a survey he was bankers who could help us out of and then looking at its role, with the had conducted among both politicians the mess we now reside in. Guardian, in the WikiLeaks scandal. Mr and journalists – each of whom seemed Mulholland spoke with pride at what the to think the other group was doing a This year saw the departure of Michael paper had achieved and reflected on better job. Oliver, the founder of the series; he how he thought the paper would develop leaves with our thanks. in the future. Our final address was given byE dward Chandler, Chairman of Corporate Jonathan Isaby, a former Telegraph Finance at Deutsche Bank, who looked Mrs H. Hynd columnist, co-editor ConservativeHome at whether bankers have a moral

86 Cambridge This academic year, a group of the 5th-form’s keenest linguists took up the challenge of reading Trip some classic French literature with Miss Brabham.

After reading Voltaire’s L’Histoire du bon facts about everything from the stained They were given a tour of the college bramin in the original French, they glass windows to the historical graffiti before the hard work began. Dr. John answered questions about the language painted on the walls. We then ventured Leigh, who is a specialist in 18th-century and style of the text and tried to pull out into the town, where the students French literature and is currently writing apart some of the complicated had to complete a photo hunt for some a study on the history of duelling, had philosophical problems posed by the of Cambridge’s most typical views. invited us to experience the Cambridge author. They were unaware that their Some members of the group had to system of ‘supervisions’, and we reward for signing up to such academic draw on cunning and ingenuity worthy of crowded into his study to see how curiosity outside of usual lessons would the infamous ‘Cambridge Spies’. Having Cambridge students work and learn. be a trip to Cambridge University. So, on wandered onto Trinity College’s main During the hour-long supervision, we one gloriously sunny morning in Lent lawn and seeing an angry-looking porter read Un lâche – a gruesome short story Term, they found themselves climbing coming their way, Carys, Tom and Luke by Guy de Maupassant – and the pupils out of the minibus into the shadow of made the impressive decision to pretend really had to think on their feet to answer the university library ready to find out that they were foreign exchange questions about the text. Dr. Leigh was what the city had to offer and to students, and with a Gallic shrug and an so impressed by their readiness to share experience something of a day in the innocent look of confusion at the ‘Do not their great ideas that he has invited us life of a Modern and Medieval walk on the grass’ signs, they made back next year. Well done to all the Languages’ student. their speedy escape. pupils who took part and made the visit such a great day out. We began by exploring King’s College’s Lunch at Fitzwilliam College followed magnificent chapel and were lucky and the Epsom pupils had the Miss H. S. Brabham enough to have an excellent tour guide, opportunity to speak to current first- and in the form of Dr. McClure, who turned fourth-year linguists about their out to be a mine of fascinating historical experiences of studying at Cambridge.

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EPSOMIAN 12 Library Looking back over this academic year from the perspective of the far side of the Quad, two themes recur: dystopias and anniversaries.

Dystopian fiction wasn’t just one of the in mind, the Library did its own bit of traditional library material and to try out more popular topics with the Cambridge game making this year. To celebrate some newer technology, experimenting Pre-U English students, it also appeared World Book Day in March, over 100 with QR codes and apps for the Library to be the theme of much of the College’s books were released around the College. iPad. As usual, the year saw literary leisure reading. The most popular book Many made their way back to the visitors (authors Marcus Sedgwick and in the Library over the year was the Library, but it was interesting to see Ruth Webb), displays (Mrs Webbe’s hugely successful Hunger Games, by which titles escaped permanently. tardis for the ‘Time’ display was one of Suzanne Collins, closely followed by the the more memorable props) and projects award-winning The Knife of Never As for anniversaries, in February we (on subjects from the First World War to Letting Go, by Patrick Ness. celebrated the bicentennial of the birth being an ethical consumer). of Charles Dickens and in June the And with the hapless competitors Diamond Jubilee of the Queen. Both Sally Perry (college librarian) released into the arena of Hunger Games provided an excuse to display some Extended Project Qualification In simple terms, the Extended Project definitely not just, the legality of it is academic evaluation. I also had weekly Qualification involves writing a long rather more murky. Without access to meetings with my supervisor, Dr. essay or dissertation on a subject of confidential intelligence, I could not McClure, where I had to justify everything your own choice. I chose the title: Was definitively take a judgement upon it, yet, I put in. Admittedly, our arguments the Invasion of Iraq in 2003 Just and with what I have seen, read and were rather one-sided at first, but by the Legal?, due to my interest in both evaluated, I believe that it is very unlikely end I was able to hold my own against international politics and philosophy. I that it was in fact legal. his questioning! went about investigating the UN resolutions on Iraq and the basis for It took me many months and cups of At the end of it all, I must say it has been evidence of weapons of mass coffee to come to this conclusion, yet in seriously worth it, as the feeling of destruction within Iraq to see whether it many ways it was not the finished achievement is immense, even if it did was truly legal. I also looked at the product that mattered, it was the take me 19,000 words to say that I’m graduation of ‘just war’ theory, from process that benefitted me in so many not quite sure! Augustine of Hippo, through Thomas ways. The College facilitated trips to Aquinas and to the modern day theory, libraries, to investigate sources, and held George Hatfield and used this to judge the war’s justness. sessions to teach vital academic skills All in all, I found that while the war was such as referencing and proper

88 Chapel Notes Who is it that dares to suggest the Christian church does not move with the times? This would not be an accusation that could be made against the College Chapel here in school. We have well and truly entered into these modern times. Let me explain.

Every year we have a batch of pupils event in the school. It was very well who offer themselves for the sacrament organised by Head Sacristan Max of confirmation. It is my responsibility to Austin. The evening began as one might ensure that, before they reach this stage expect, with a service in Chapel. This and stand before the bishop, all of the was the ancient order of Compline. Pre- candidates are baptised. Occasionally dinner drinks followed, complete with an though, one or two do require baptism. exhibition of Chapel archives, ably This year was, indeed, no different, and organised by Max and College archivist one of the candidates, Matthew Chen, Mr Alan Scadding. Guests, including Dr. needed to be baptised. I offered to him Andrew Vallance-Owen, Chairman of the a variety of timings, the one that he College Council; the Headmaster and planned for was during one of our Mrs Borthwick; other notable members normal Wednesday morning Chapel of the Common Room; and also the services! Certainly, this has never pupil body, headed to Main Hall where happened during my time, and I suspect the black tie dinner continued. Between never in the Chapel history? the various courses of the meal, sacristans and others, including Anna Although, of course, there have been Halstead and Henry Warne, serenaded many baptisms through the years in us with music and also a beautiful song Chapel, this is probably the first time that from the hit musical Les Misérables, in a service was being ‘Skyped’ to which Henry had the starring role in the Matthew’s family in Hong Kong. It made school production just a few weeks it all feel very special, and, indeed, was a earlier. Max, as Head Sacristan, rounded marvellous occasion. off the evening with an excellent and most amusing speech. A good time was Another notable first during this year was had by all, and we look forward to the inauguration of a Chapel dinner, next year. which we hope will become an annual

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Matthew Chen Granville House L6th Benedict Currie Forest House 5th form Mathilde Lundsberg-Nielsen Raven House M4 Tamsin Melville Raven House M4 Gemma Pullman Rosebery House L6th Shane Shanahan Carr House 5th form Amy Symons Rosebery House L6th Henry Warne Granville House 5th form

Once again the natural rhythm of the to meet in Chapel on a regular basis. It is In ending this brief summary of the liturgy provided focus for the many a marvellous occasion of fellowship and Chapel year, I would like to record my services that took place through reflection. Again, my thanks to all those thanks to Max Austin for the the year. who continue to support this. extraordinary job that he has completed as Head Sacristan this past year. My Many notable speakers ascended the Bishop Christopher, our College visitor, next thanks go to my colleague Helen steps of the pulpit. As always, I am was on home ground this year to preside Hynd, who steps down after four years grateful to those who could offer a and preach at the service of confirmation, of assisting within the Chaplaincy team. sermon. We now have a very firmly which was, as always, a most moving Finally, to give thanks to the Headmaster established tradition of those who are and beautiful service. The candidates and Mrs Borthwick as they leave the leaving school saying a few words too. were well supported by family members, College on retirement. They have always Our three heads of school this year took Housemasters and Housemistresses, been great supporters of the Chapel part, and also Common Room leavers. members of the Common Room and and, indeed, the Chaplaincy. God speed Thank you to all! also the pupil body. Candidates are to all. as follows: I am also pleased to record that the staff Fr. Paul Thompson (senior chaplain) and parents’ prayer group has continued

90 Senior SKI TRIP After a painfully long, but relatively uneventful, journey, the senior skiing party arrived at their hotel in the Killington ski resort in Vermont. The only memorable event of the journey was the brief walk between the bus and the entrance to the hotel; -25oC can make even a short walk challenging.

Nonetheless, we all made it safely onto However, it wasn’t long until the icy Without a doubt, the star of the whole the slopes. The beginners group went conditions started to take their toll. In the trip was Bill, the fun-loving, story-telling away with their instructor Sebastian for first few days, Natalie Edwards got all-American who was the instructor for what was, in many cases, their first ever frostbite from the cold, Phil Glover tore the advanced ski group. He seemed to lesson. The advanced group went the ligaments in his knee and Phil know everyone on the piste and was straight up to the top of the mountain, Cramer dislocated his shoulder. By the never short of something to chat about. where they quickly realised that Mr last day, when Hong Yu Zhao face- He had lunch with us each day and Johnstone was not going to be the planted so perfectly that he broke his always provided some sort of pie or supportive, helpful influence that we nose, Dr. Dowdeswell concluded her some cookies baked by his wife, who had hoped for … racing past the week by making it into the medical we all met when we got together one group, often backwards, was really centre every day of the trip. evening to celebrate Bill’s birthday. quite distracting. Despite the injuries, spirits remained Special thanks to Mr and Mrs Johnstone That night, the ‘wipeout of the day’ generally high, especially when Phil and to Dr. Dowdeswell for a great crocodile outfit was given out for the first Stankovski and Mike Cobb had the week. time, as it would be each night. The nerve to try the outdoor pool. Although most interesting person to have the suit the pool was well heated, sitting on the Matt Pollard was Luke Oldershaw, who was the first side in -20oC turned out to be a fun new person brave enough to wear the way to play chicken. This soon resulted outrageous costume onto the slopes. in frostbite and another trip to the Comments such as: “Look mommy, medical centre. it’s a monster!” were not uncommon, or inaccurate.

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Junior SKI TRIP Les Arcs 1600 France It was the start of the Easter holiday and time for our ski trip. We met outside Carr House on Saturday morning ready to board the coach taking us to St Pancras for the Eurostar ski train direct to Bourg-Saint-Maurice. Packed lunches were handed out and we were off.

On the train we plugged our earphones by without a hiccup: sadly, Jamie Gleave So, it only remains for me to thank Mr in for the seven-hour journey through broke his wrist, but he continued to be Day for organising the trip and to Mr France. This year Mr Wilson didn’t have cheerful throughout the remainder of the Hibbitt, Mr Wilson and Mr Stephens (no to stay on the train for an extra stop – all trip. The rest of us all skied hard and Maths papers were handed out) and items of luggage were accounted for! many of us were extremely tired by the their families for looking after us all. We arrived at our hotel, Villages Clubs end of the day, but this didn’t stop us By the way, just ask Mr Day about du Soleil, at about 7.00pm and were having fun during the evening’s our thank-you gift – a marmot allocated our rooms, collected our ski entertainment of bowling and board called Minkey! equipment and headed to the restaurant games, with some of us visiting the for supper. local town. To those of you thinking of going on this trip in the future, I hope you enjoy the The following day we were split into Adam Cresswell and I have been on all fun and banter as much as we all did! ability groups. The weather was great three junior ski trips and have enjoyed with plenty of snow, and during the week each and every one, but especially Harry Allingham we had a mixture of weather, with snow this one! falling at 2,000m. The week couldn’t go

92 New York Drama Tour Aside from Laura nearly not being allowed to fly and Charlotte’s bout of food poisoning, the flight to New York went fairly smoothly and everyone was excited. On our first evening we explored the streets around our hotel to find something to eat, from giant pretzels to MacDonald’s, before heading to the Empire State building in a big happy group. Despite the fatigue and the long queues, which seemed to take hours, it was definitely worth staying up for; seeing the incredible views of the New York skyline was a perfect start to our trip. At 4.00 am UK time and 11.00 am US time, we eventually stumbled back to the hotel and collapsed into our beds.

The next morning most of us managed Fuerzabruta, which involved live music, Central Park while having a picnic lunch to destroy a huge American breakfast in moving stages, smashing boxes, people and then headed to the Museum of the local diner, Lindy’s. The weather was dancing on water above us and dancing Modern Art, a very large and interesting perfect as we walked to the boat and while being drenched with water. I don’t museum full of pieces from Van Gogh to took our boat tour that allowed us to not think any of us had expected such a the strangest of modern art in painting, only enjoy the view of the city, but also strange, yet amazingly confusing, and sculpture and photography. We then get up close to the famous Statue of enjoyable experience; we loved it. enjoyed some Fifth Avenue shopping, Liberty for some great photo which included visits to Abercrombie opportunities. After the tour we walked On Thursday, we headed to Pearl and Hollister. Later that evening we saw back through the streets of New York Studios for our first workshop. We were the musical Memphis, which was based and got our first Times Square shopping taught a ‘Step by Step’ dance workshop on the first DJ to play black music on experience for the rest of the morning. by Jeff Shade, a prestigious Broadway white radio stations in the 1950s. It blew After lunch we saw our first Broadway dance captain and choreographer, which us away with its amazing choreography, show, Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark, was a huge privilege, as he wasn’t even singing and set. which had some amazing aerial flight supposed to be teaching as he was sequences; however, we all agreed that having a hip replacement, but he made Our next workshop, which was slightly the music was poor, despite not being an exception for us. We were all amazed disappointing, was the acting workshop able to resist singing ‘Bullying by as, although we weren’t perfect dancers, on Friday morning; however, we had the Numbers’ for the rest of the week. Later we managed to pull off the routine he opportunity to meet and chat to Ward on we headed, by subway, to the taught us and we really enjoyed it. That Billeisen, a member of the cast of experimental physical theatre piece afternoon we soaked up the sun in Anything Goes, the musical we would

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surreal moment when the entire audience was pulling toilet paper over our heads. Miss Chandley had booked a limo to take each group back to the hotel, giving us a memorable last journey through the streets of New York. With a few hours left, most of us quickly purchased souvenirs for parents or friends before heading to the airport for our flight home. It was sad to leave New York, but the memories will stay with us for a long time to come. The trip was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone and was an experience that we will never forget. Some of the highlights definitely included being chatted to by an extremely drunk Icelandic woman in the lobby, who not only took photos and high-fived us, but seemed to fall in love with Alex because see that night. At the American Museum Stardust Diner for a late dinner, where of this ‘amazing jumper’. We were also of Moving Images we had an interesting we enjoyed the songs being performed amused by Tyger being mobbed by his tour of the museum and then a chance by part-time Broadway actors and fans in the hotel and by the weird noises to explore for ourselves. Back from actresses while we ate. After midnight coming from the small Indian girl in the Queens, we paid our respects by visiting we returned to the hotel and packed our theatre while we watched Spiderman. the 9/11 Memorial. After a late lunch, we things, wishing that we weren’t returning had our last afternoon of shopping, home so soon. Emily Oulton and Tilly Small where we visited Century 21, before making our own way back to the Times Our final day started with an ‘open call’ Square area. By now we had learned workshop with a Broadway casting how to navigate the city and become director, where we supported Steph, independent. We then headed by Tyger, Max, Lucy, Jake, Em and Alice, subway to see Cole Porter’s Anything who had all prepared an audition piece, Goes, and we enjoyed the brilliant and we heard tips on how to improve it, singing and tap-dancing routines. We which we all found interesting. We saw were very lucky to see the legendary our final show in its Chelsea home, ‘Blue Joel Grey on stage, and it was exciting Man Group’, which had us all in hysterics to see Ward performing his socks off in as we watched a small Chinese woman the ensemble in one of the most classic be pulled from the audience onto the Broadway musicals of all time. As this stage with the three actors who were was our last night, we headed to Ellen’s painted blue. The show ended with a

94 P 95-132

CCF report ROUNDERS YOUNG CO-OPERATIVES HOBSON’S CHOICE BOYS’ TENNIS YOUNG ENTERPRISE VOLLEYBALL GIRLS’ TENNIS OPERATION WALLACEA BOYS’ ATHLETICS BASKETBALL SINGAPORE & AUSTRALIA TRIPS GIRLS ATHLETICS GOLF BATTLEFIELD TRIP CRICKET JUNIOR DODD EDINBURGH RUGBY TOUR

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SUMMER MAY - AUGUST 2012

96 28 CCF Report Michaelmas

In September, the CCF cadets were thrilled when a Lynx helicopter from the Army Air Corps landed in the College grounds. Captain Charlie Monnington AAC explained to various groups how the helicopter supports the armed services and the specific role of the Army Air Corps, and cadets were able to climb inside and see the equipment. In March, we were delighted to welcome At the Armistice Day Service, the CCF OE Air Vice-Marshal G. E. Stacey, CB paraded banners and participated in the MBE, Commander British Forces service. At Christmas, some cadets Cyprus, as the Reviewing Officer at the brought some festive joy to children in Combined Cadet Force’s Annual General Epsom Hospital’s Casey Ward. They Inspection. delivered presents to children unlucky enough to be spending some of the There was a warm welcome for the festive season in hospital. The College parents, guests and OEs in attendance, CCF cadets raised £700 through a a number of whom are serving or former sponsored parachute jump in the serving officers in the armed services. summer for three local causes. His aide-de-camp for the day was OE Lt Polly Norkett. After a buffet lunch, Charles Gray, Queen’s Royal Lancers. enjoyed by CCF staff and guests in Big The day began with a Guard of Honour School, cadets took part in a number of Lent (Guard Commander, Oliver Fox) and Inter-house competitions involving skills Muster Parade of the Contingent, that demonstrated their training In January, OE Lt Guy Baker came back followed by the Inspection and March- achievements. The overall winner of the to Epsom to thank the College Past and an Advanced Drill Team Display competitions was Carr House. Ben community for its support of Mama (Commander, Connor Findlay). The Mitchell was awarded the Best Cadet in Baker’s Boxes (an appeal founded by his proceedings were supported by the the Leadership Cadre Trophy. The mother), a new initiative aimed at Band of the Royal Logistic Corps and Annual CCF Dinner was held in Big supporting our soldiers in Afghanistan. the College’s own Contingent Band, and School in Main Hall for Cadet Force the Parade was overseen by Cadet RSM Adult Volunteers and 6th form NCOs.

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In March, we were delighted to welcome OE Air Vice-Marshal G. E. Stacey, CB MBE, Commander British Forces Cyprus, as the Reviewing Officer at the Combined Cadet Force’s Annual General Inspection.

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Tuesday afternoon, both the RAF section and the U4 Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award group hiked from the College to the Boidier Hurst Scout Camp for an overnight camp. Walking with backpacks containing all their equipment and food, the cadets used their map-reading skills to find their way from the College to the campsite near Box Hill, where they put up tents and cooked their evening meal.

Meanwhile, the Infantry cadre undertook a 24-hour exercise at Pirbright. The Initiative Group undertook a map and orienteering exercise while the RN section undertook a sailing exercise at Summer Ripley. After experiencing their first overnight CCF exercise in Aldershot on During the summer half term the CCF Tuesday, putting their campcraft skills to was honoured to be invited to support the test, as well as learning some basic the Diamond Jubilee Pageant, one of leadership skills, Field Day on the highlights of Her Majesty the Queen’s Wednesday saw the entire M4 year Diamond Jubilee celebrations. Fifty-two group visit the Royal Military Academy College cadets and officers were invited Sandhurst, where they toured the into the VIP enclosure on Westminster buildings and took part in a number of Bridge, where they watched a flotilla of group leadership activities. 1,000 boats sail along the Thames as the Queen travelled the river on the royal At the end of term, the silver Duke of barge. Edinburgh’s section took part in a practice expedition in the Wye Valley. Summer Term field day involved nearly 300 cadets in various activities, 260 of Lt Col Mike Hampshire whom were out on overnight camps. On

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Junior Play Review: HOBSON’S CHOICE During the Summer, Big School acted as a time machine that took its audience back to the grimy, industrial tapestry of Lancashire in the 1880’s. The strife and troubles of Hobson’s shoe repairers served as a background to a commentary on many of the problems of the time yet still interlaced with a rich band of Northern humour.

Serious issues like poor education, and rhythm to the performance, helped poverty and the role of women were in no small way by authentic and secure tackled in Brighouse’s multi-layered text Lancashire accents. and the Junior cast did more than do justice to its depth. The production Once more, it seems, Director, Miss featured a small cast, and all of them did Chandley has unearthed and begun the the play proud, but specific mention process of nurturing a rich vein of Junior should be made of the three central talent ready to grace our stage in future actors. productions. Rob Anderson, making his début in the school, created a superbly Callum Watson gave the audience a versatile and atmospheric design and, blustery, battered and finally broken as usual, the stage management team Horatio Hobson and Max Wildenberg led by, on this occasion, Stephanie superbly portrayed the gifted and Boote helped to produce a slick and eventually self-assured Will Mossop. But enjoyable performance. standing superbly in charge of all she surveyed was Emily Oulton who, as Towards the end of the play, as Hobson’s Maggie Hobson, cajoled and corralled world crumbled around him, perhaps the male characters, moulding them the key message of the play emerged exactly as she wished. concerning the power of education. How appropriate in a school such as Epsom There were excellent débuts from Elise College that we could see that, although Mather and a measured performance walls may tremble and fall, through from Jonathan Pollard but the whole education we all have within us the company (which included Lyndsey power to build a better and brighter McJarrow, Tim Lazarus, Aiden Smith, world. Lucy Ward, Zoe Olsen, Omar Said and William Slough) had a consistent pace Mr. P. Henson

102 Volleyball At the time, I felt this was a transitional year for the boys – the majority of the team lacked the experience of previous teams. An enjoyable season followed.

We did get thumped by the Lycée, who seemed even stronger than usual, but we competed well against our usual rivals of Rikkyo (who probably had the edge over the year) and Lancing (we seemed to save our best for them, and several times they snatched defeat from the jaws of victory (sic)). Some excellent play was seen over the year, and I am sure more would have been seen if we could have avoided some of the injuries. The atmosphere was usually great, and would have been even better if the boys could learn how to serve. Highlights were probably having the indecency to win our own tournament in the summer and an awesome performance in the quarter-final at Ashcombe; lowlights probably include the semi-final at Ashcombe!

The girls integrated the new L6th quickly, and showed steady improvement over the year, with some good performances against Rikkyo and Lancing. Defensive play was very good, with all of the team having good passes – we just lacked the killer touch. Outdoors we had mixed fortunes, coming runners-up at Ashcombe, but struggling at Brighton Beach (it was still an enjoyable day!)

Epsom says farewell to some of the keenest volleyball players I’ve had the pleasure to meet. My thanks especially to Charmaine and Melvin for captaining the teams.

Mr S. Hibbitt

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BOYs’ Athletics This season had a very disjointed feel; the weather (Fayrer) who won the Victor Ludorum, and dates both conspired against it running smoothly. winning an unusual combination of events (1500m, long jump and third in Despite this, there has been a really good atmosphere high jump). The juniors were also won by on the track. Propert, but Jamie Palmer (Granville) picked up Victor Ludorum with 4 wins A small number of very positive senior third overall. Possibly the most personally (high jump, 200m, 400m and 800m). boys have demonstrated a fantastic all- satisfying competition was the Lord Propert won overall and also won the round ability and pulled through against Burley, where a very limited number of Relay Cup. significantly larger schools. The senior boys pulled together and intermediate boys have had a very good produced a phenomenal performance to Mr L. Matthews season, and I am looking forward to come second to St. Paul’s and second seeing them as seniors next year. A very overall. It was the same boys who talented 5th form has been competed in the final home match, Major Colours supplemented with one or two excellent which saw a win for both the senior and Jordan Burns, Alex Aves, Ciaran U4s to make a highly competitive team. junior boys (second for the Inters) and a The juniors suffered from the absence of win overall for the boys (second overall O’Duffy, Ben Grant, Luke an opening match, but once they found co-ed). Oldershaw their feet became more and more competitive as they developed their The House Competition went ahead Full Colours confidence. Two of the more promising despite the best efforts of the weather. Robbie MacDonald, Ollie Ramagge boys, Edafe Sowole-James and Babu This year the Houses were competing, Ocan, went on to represent the county at every age group, with a ‘every point Half Colours alongside perennial county representative counts’ attitude. In the seniors, Granville Kieran Findlay (5th form). won overall and Ciaran O’Duffy (Carr) Max Gathercole, Mide Ajibade, was Victor Ludorum, winning in the Theo Jennings The highlights of the season included a 400m, 800m and 1500m. Forest won very impressive display at the District the U17 Competition with a very Colts Colours Championships, where the juniors and enthusiastic 5th form, which has been Kieran Findlay, Dami Ibrahim, Matt the main driving force for the school intermediate boys won by a clear 50 Thorman, Angus Hutchinson, Jake points each – a massive margin in intermediate team this year. Kieran Seabold, Will Goldberg, Declan athletics’ terms. The intermediate boys Findlay (Propert) took the Victor Grant, Bradley Fenn, Lee Cresswell, won the Copenhagen Shield, finishing Ludorum. Propert’s U16s were second overall in the boys’ category and dominant; however, it was Nick Taffinder Sean Jagger

104 Girls’ Athletics The juniors comprised a set of very talented athletes this year. Our team was extremely enthusiastic and determined to succeed in all of the athletics meets we performed in. We were also a very successful team and attained first and second place overall in every one of the meets.

A special well done to Rosie Onslow- The intermediate girls showed much Wyld (hurdles), Ellie Rhodes (long jump), enthusiasm and continued to carry a Harriet Jennings (100m), Ella Witts bond forged during last year’s athletics (1500m), Sophie Rumble (800m) and season. They relied on every person Portia Jennings (200m) in qualifying for turning out and being available for every the Surrey counties and competing for match. This was shown especially by shone in the hurdles while Emma the College within the district. Also, we Jodie Koep, the only 5th former to Dickinson and Evie Tselentakis learned were very pleased to receive first place attend every single match, who gave the the triple jump and performed well. at the K2 Arena for our M4 relay team, team big points by winning or coming as we were up against some tough second in every race she competed in. The girls who competed for the central opposition, such as Brighton College. There were also many U4s to be surrey team at the county schools’ Congratulations also to the other selected for the team, proving the match were: Issy Ashe, Issy Gathercole members who contributed to such a excellence of their year group’s abilities. and Gaby Orlich. fantastic season and M4 team; I’m sure Some of the best examples of this came that we will remain a strong, talented from Sophie Nixon, who, last year, was and consistent year group into the one of the best sprinters in her year, and, Half Colours future. due to injury, had to adapt her skills and Issy Ashe

become one of the best throwers of the Jodie Koep Harriet Jennings intermediate team. Phoebe Gibson

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The senior girls this year were a bit thin The girls who competed for the central on the ground, but the athletes that surrey team at the county schools’ Half Colours turned up always applied 100% effort match were: Jess Woodley (first-place Eimear Monaghan and attended every match they possibly county champion), Eimear Monaghan Rosin Monaghan could. The whole girls’ athletics squad (second place in the final), Rosin was lead by Caitlin Keep and Camilla Monaghan (fourth place in the final) and Leah Amin Shopland, who always offered their Leah Amin (third place in the final). Jess Woodley services if an event needed filling. They also received a lot of help from Eimear Miss J. Bennett Monaghan with organising the team and also filling in when it was needed. Hopefully, she will carry over these skills to next year when she becomes the new captain of girls’ athletics.

106 Cricket 1st XI The season was the wettest I have ever arm spinner Stefan Sander. Chasing known and played havoc with preseason 190, both Allen and debutant Dan training and early season fixtures. Bradshaw batted well to record half Outdoor practice was impossible and centuries. However, both were out when left us severely underprepared when we well set and the chase was abandoned finally got started outside. The constant and a well-deserved draw grasped. rain caused the abandonment of the first four matches, including the highly A 200-run loss at Eastbourne does not popular national 20/20 Competition. tell the whole story. Excellent bowling Having tried to play our match on from Joe Button 4/36 had the hosts in numerous occasions, we ended up trouble. The other bowlers, however, losing in a five-man bowl out at our were not able to sustain the pressure, neighbours, Reigate Grammar School, and a total of 276 was always going to 5–4. The following week we swapped be challenging. Bradshaw again batted our home fixture to the south coast of well, but received no support from the bowling, including M4 Jamie Palmer, Brighton. All good until another severe remaining batsman. This was very was enough for a comfortable win. A downpour ended that plan. disappointing batting on a really good really tight game v St. Paul’s ended in a pitch. close 10-run defeat in a game we should Eventually, we managed to get onto the have won. Super bowling from the ever- field, where our away match at The last four matches of the season improving Tom Williams, 4/36, during a Hurstpierpoint was moved to the drier were a real contrast with what had gone lengthy spell, constantly asked questions Epsom ground. Unfortunately, we were before. A really good performance with of the home team’s batting. There were heavily defeated by 10 wickets. Forty- both bat and ball saw a 9-wicket victory also 2 wickets for Alice Davidson- three all out was disappointing, to say at Tiffin. Tight bowling was followed by a Richards in her first game for the 1st XI. the least, although Harry Allen showed 150-run opening partnership between Harry Allen (75) again batted beautifully, batting was far from impossible. The Allen (75) and Myles Pittam (61*). Myles’ but the regular fall of wickets left the following week early wickets were a tenacity served him well after a difficult lower order with too much to do and we major setback in chasing St. John’s total start to his innings. By the end of his lost our 10th wicket in the last over 10 of 196, although lusty, late-order hitting knock he was timing the ball beautifully. runs short. from captain Joe Button, Matthew Nolan and Teagan Pitout nearly got us home. A 20/20 match v Wilson’s followed the The final match of the season saw a same pattern. Excellent batting again by resounding win for the school in their The annual MCC fixture saw some Pittam (60*) and the energetic Ben Kirby annual match with the OEs. The game excellent cricket with 3 wickets for left- (40*) set a formidable total. Accurate was notable for some remarkable

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2nd XI It is a shame to find myself writing a cricket report for a season of a mere four games, but such was our summer. As it was, this truncated season was, by and large, pretty successful.

Our first match against St. John’s was the first outdoor session the squad had had, so I was certainly a little nervous as to how things would go. However, we were competitive in the field, Caspar Naylor being the pick of the bowlers (he usually was), and our fielding was, generally, very good. Having restricted St. John’s to 169, we replied in emphatic style to win by 9 wickets. Dan Bradshaw scored a very fine 100, ably supported by Will Ward, who scored 48. Their partnership of 169 was sensibly paced, and Dan deservedly won promotion to the 1st XI.

We chased again against Eastbourne, again having bowled well, and for the second match on the trot a perfect run chase was conducted. The platform was laid by a calm partnership between James Booker and Paul Sciver, with the acceleration provided by Harry Wakefield and Ben Kirby. Our penultimate match, another run chase on a rain-affected pitch, was less assured, but clean striking by Ben Kirby and Ben Roe, and a calm innings by Nick Williams under pressure at the death, saw the team home.

The final match against St. Paul’s was bowling by Chris Bolton – figures of 6 for Performance Centre at Loughborough. something of an anticlimax. We were 11, including a spell of 6–5–1–6, Congratulations should also go to Alice missing players, both in body and spirit, outstanding. Allen and the ever- Davidson-Richards, who represented and collapsed to 60 all out, a total we improving Pittam knocked off the runs to the successful Kent ladies’ team and couldn’t defend. This was a shame, see us home by 10 wickets. was a member of the Kent Academy given the season up to that point. That based at Canterbury. said, the season had been a good The season finished just as the team introduction to senior cricket for many of started to play some really good cricket. My thanks must go to the leavers for all the 5th form, some of whom will knock Allen and Pittam formed a reliable their efforts as members of the 1st XI. on the door of the 1st XI next year. opening pair and Tom Williams showed They have all been a real pleasure to what a good seamer he is. Matt Nolan work with and I hope they continue with Except for the final game, it was also a kept wicket superbly and Alex Waterman their cricketing careers outside the good season for the leaving U6th – Dan showed glimpses of the quality bowler school environment. Bradshaw and (later on) Ben Kirby he can become. The bounce he can Thanks must also go the ground staff captained the team well and batted with achieve will test a lot of batsmen’s and caterers for their help both on and purpose; Will Ward has shown real resolve over the next two years. off the field. Finally, my thanks go to Mike improvement as a keeper over the past Hobbs; I really appreciate everything he two seasons; and Ben Roe and Ollie Harry Allen must be congratulated on does for the team and me, especially on Dennis bowled to good effect. I wish representing, and on occasions match days. them every success in their sporting captaining, the Surrey U17 team which endeavours in the future. won the national 50-over Competition. Mr N. R. Taylor Harry was also nominated by Surrey for Master i/c Cricket Mr M. C. Conway further training at the National Cricket

108 Junior Colts A P5 W2 L3

In a truncated season, marred by the scored a hard-hitting 45 against St. Jamie Palmer and Peter O’Brien wettest April for 100 years, and an John’s and James Scott turned in a tidy spearheaded the bowling attack, taking equally miserable May, the team 3–28 with his off-spinners. We lost to crucial early wickets each match. Other managed to complete a total of five City of London Freemen’s, even though very notable bowlers were Nils Berring, matches. When the rain finally stopped purposeful innings from Parkinson (55) Harry Roberts (great all-rounder), Oscar we were several weeks into term, having and Oosthuizen (29) had put us in a Waite, Jonathan Pollard and Harry only managed some limited training in decent position before tea. Bryan Lao Williams, who took plenty of wickets the form of indoor nets and some deserves a mention: passionate about between them, with some very inspired tennis ball fielding in the rain the game and first at every practice impressive bowling spells throughout the coordinated by new coach Mr Bowen. In session, he helped to set the tone for term. And there were also other excellent our first match we faced a strong St. the whole season. contributions from Giles Baker, Rob John’s team, but, despite a good team Davies and William Onslow-Wyld. The effort, were unable to match their 204 We lost our final match to St. Paul’s, but side improved tremendously over the runs. In our remaining four matches we the desire was still there, even on a grey term and were always a very keen, polite recorded victories against Eastbourne and windswept day. Good humour and and motivated group of cricketers. and Tiffin, but also suffered another 2 friendly banter was evident throughout defeats at the hands of City of London the season. A heady mix of experience Mr S. J. Head Freeman’s and St. Paul’s. Highlights of and youth among the coaches, Doc these matches included an unbeaten 66 Wade and Mr Thomas, helped to keep by Nick Taffinder against Eastbourne, a spirits high and thoughts positive. U14 B 46-run contribution from Jack Griffin Hopefully, another year on will see even against Tiffin and some highly consistent greater improvements. The U14 B side was blessed this season bowling from Max Holder in the same with many individually talented players. match: 2–11 from 6 overs. Mr K. Siviter But, while the squad promised much, and could have gone unbeaten, they Mr T. A. Stone failed to rise to the big occasion. After U14 A two washouts, St. John’s were beaten convincingly, with William Morris looking Junior Colts B P6 | W5 | L1 composed with bat and ball. But against a strong Eastbourne team Epsom fell 16 P4 | W1 | L3 It was a difficult season due to the runs short of victory – chasing down 148 weather, but, nonetheless, a very off 25 overs – despite the crisp hitting of What was clear about this year’s team entertaining season, with some thrilling William Kibblewhite, who took 23 runs was the enthusiasm for the game, cricket played. Highlights included our off a mere handful of deliveries. whatever the situation, whatever the excellent wins over Hurstpierpoint, St. weather. After a dismal and demoralising John’s, CLFS, Tiffin and our 3-run win After victories against HPP and Tiffin record last year, there was a buoyant over St. Paul’s, who were unbeaten schools, where Rahul Ganguly bowled spirit in every game. We won one of the before they played us. Isaac Braithwaite tightly, Epsom capitulated against a well- four matches played and there were and Harry Williams captained the side organised St. Paul’s team, in their final encouraging individual performances extremely well throughout a very difficult match of the season. It was a from several players in the other games. weather-affected season. They were disappointing result that reflected some also the highest run scorers in the side unrealised potential. We beat Eastbourne, with captain Brian and, at times, they batted beautifully. Oosthuizen scoring 55, supported by Isaac Braithwaite not only scored 100, Mr G. R. Watson Bart Kitson with a brisk 37. In the field, but he was invaluable behind the stumps James Scott’s 4–26 was inspirational in as wicketkeeper. the win. In other matches, Tim Williams

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Rounders 1st Team U15 A U15 B P4 | W3 | L1 P4 | W3 | L1 P4 | W1 | L3 The girls have had an enjoyable rounders Despite the rainy season, the girls The team captain, Alice Dawson, led season with a close-fought game against improved steadily, winning every match from the bowling box, while the entire the OEs and 3 convincing wins. Thank except for their first against squad improved over the course of the you and well done to the captain, Hurstpierpoint. Fantastic wins against season. An initial close match against Rochelle Smith, and to both the teams St. John’s, Eastbourne and King Hurstpierpoint was followed by tough for their dedication and enthusiasm. Edward’s were due to all-round excellent opposition from Christ’s Hospital and St. Special mentions should go to Katie play, particularly by captain and bowler John’s, but we had a final win against Adam and Fliss Beckett for their all- Laura Wijsmuller. Freya Gordon and Imy Eastbourne. Positive team play was round skills at batting and fielding. Martin were also significant contributors, contributed to by Anika Chatrath, Emily Ashley Gillan showed unfailing while Bella Bowes served as a steady Oulton and Lucy Ward. enthusiasm and skill as backstop; Becky backstop. Quinlan and Rachel Mewett have been Mrs R. Young excellent as deep fielders and big Miss K. D. Cloonan hitters. U14 A Dr. R. Dowdeswell P4 | W2 | L1 | D1 Full Colours There were no 2nd-team During a quiet season, we won our Rochelle Smith matches. opening two matches against Katie Adam Hurstpierpoint and St. John’s; drew Fliss Beckett Senior House against King Edward’s, 15–15, in a very Rounders tight match; and, sadly, lost our final match against Eastbourne, 12–16. 1st Crawfurd Half Colours Becky Quinlan 2nd Rosebery Rachel Mewett 3rd Raven Alexia Fenn Ashley Gillan

110 Boys’ Tennis as many of the members of the ISL have 1st Team tennis centres and play all year round. Independent Schools’ League Regular Saturday fixtures followed Placing 12th out of 16 against Lancing College, Eton and our Saturday Fixtures: local rivals St. John’s before half term. Lancing were very weak and were P5 | W5 crushed 12–0, Eton were beaten 5–4 (admittedly not their 1st team!) in a hard- Sets: W32 | L16 fought and close contest and the St. John’s match also proved to be a nail- A season of real highs, which managed biter – again, the team managed to to survive the weather and ended on a scrape a victory, 5–4. In each of these real positive, where certain individuals matches a strong 1st pair of Alex proved to be strong competitors, Ramsey and Boris Chiu was able to win especially captain Max Dialdas. It was all 3 of their sets to set up victory. The the year that many of the players grew players were also demonstrating some up and matured after the frustration of good strength in depth, with Ben last season, where we had a tendency Galazka, Ben Giles, Max Dialdas, to lose close matches. Matthew Rooke, Michael Rossi, Arjun winning total of 5 sets. The final match and Rahul Menon all combining to win of the regular Saturday season was In an effort to kick-start our tennis, we sets when needed. against Wellington, and it was, again, a embarked on a three-day training camp customary 5–4 victory. during the Easter holidays, which was After half term, Tonbridge and Wellington very well attended. Unfortunately, the provided the Saturday opposition. The While Saturdays were fantastic, our weather and blisters reduced the now familiar 5–4 scoreline was achieved performances in cup competitions were number of balls hit and the days down in both fixtures. This did nothing for my very mixed. In the Rootham Shield (the to two, but this new initiative undoubtedly hairline and nerves, but it was excellent County Cup) we were dumped out by proved a worthwhile endeavour. The to see a determination from the boys to Weydon School 3–0. In the Surrey Open competitive season started the following get over the line and secure a win. What Pairs Competition we found the level week with the customary and traditional was also pleasing was that different extremely high, especially as some of Independent Schools’ League (ISL), 16 individuals put their hands up each the opponents included individuals who of the strongest schools in the south. A week. Against Tonbridge, it was Giles had played at Junior Wimbledon the shortened version saw us lose to and Dialdas who played some stunning previous year! The St. George’s pairs Charterhouse and Cranleigh, but record doubles tennis, winning all 3 of their saw a run through to the final of victories against St. Paul’s and KCS sets. It was also good to see Arjun and the Plate Competition, which was a Wimbledon. This was a solid start in Rahul Menon contribute with a significant good effort. what is always a challenging competition, victory, which took the team to the

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U14 The U14 boys’ tennis team had a good season, with a great deal of excellent tennis played by a keen and talented group of young players. The A team won 60% of their matches, the B team 75% and the C team 50%, making it one of the most successful seasons in recent times.

The 1st pairing of Alastair Green and Saturday Fixtures: Grigory Pasenov were fearsome opponents for most schools. Grigory’s P3 | W1 | L2 big serve and heavy shots complemented Alastair’s slice serve, court craft and Sets: W9 | L18 touch around the net. There were few 1st pairings outside the ISI Competition The 2nd team had a short and that managed to defeat them. 2nd challenging season, interrupted more by pairing Zach Scalabrini and Nick weather and exams than the 1st team. Whitehead showed the benefits of We struggled at this level, although it teamwork and a never-say-die attitude The final commitment of the season was was good to see individuals playing to punch above their weight in many the Annual Independent Schools’ Tennis some good tennis. However, too many matches, ending with an admirable set Association Championships, at Eton of the players had too little time on court of results, often in the worst conditions. College, after the end of the term. For to get any consistency. Certain These four formed the basis of the ISI players such as Max Dialdas and Alex individuals did shine and will be squad and will go on to greater things as Ramsey, who have contributed through competing for a 1st-team berth next they develop their game next year. thick and thin to Epsom tennis, it was summer. fitting that they finally managed to win a The second tranche of players showed medal. Getting to the final through five The team suffered, closer than the final great promise too, and, at times, it was rounds of the plate was no mean feat, scorelines suggest, in matches against hard to put them in any kind of coherent and a proof of the determination that Wellington and Tonbridge (losing both order, such was their evenness. Lockyer, characterised their season. 2–7). The highpoint of the season was a Hunt, Hobday and Chan all hard-fought 5–4 victory against St. complemented each other with varying Finally, I would like to thank Mr Hibbitt John’s, where Oliver Costain and Sam skills and strengths, and they will and Dr. McClure, for their support this Bonfield, playing 1st pair, won three out become good players if they keep season; to Justin, Jamie and John, for of three matches. Ben Galazka was also recognising their weaker areas and their expertise and coaching; and, most an impressive player, committed and working to improve them. Others of all, to the team, for their determination matching this with some good ability performed well too, achieving impressive and efforts in a fine and progressive year. throughout. Others also represented the results against most schools and Next year will be challenging as a team with varying degrees of distinction scrapping hard in adversity. A thoroughly number of players have left, but there at different points, in what is always enjoyable season, which has left me are some young guns coming up who going to be a difficult term. Still, all was feeling encouraged by the potential in should compete and take it forward. not lost, and there were some signs of boys’ tennis for the coming years. strength in depth when everyone was fit Mr R. S. Willis and available. Mr A. J. Bustard 2nd Team

112 GIRLs’ Tennis 1st VI local rivals, St. John’s, 7–2, with the 1st and 2nd pairs not losing a match! P5 | W5 During the season the pairs competed in the St. George’s Tennis Festival and for 2nd VI the Loveband Trophy at Eton College. At St. George’s, Zoe Sciver and Hannah P1 | W1 Wilkinson did well, coming second in our group and progressing to the semi-finals; A great season all round from the Epsom however, we met our match in St. College girls’ tennis team! With some George’s and ended the day a little tough opposition and some busy 6th disappointed. At Eton, we came through formers, we made the best of it and the first round easily, but, once again, managed to remain unbeaten. Well done we were drawn against St. George’s. to everyone who contributed to the team Sophie Lundsberg-Nielsen and Zoe effort over the season, especially to Sciver almost made a comeback in the those from outside the 6th form. Special second set, but, once again, they were mentions to Hannah Wilkinson, Charlotte too strong. At the end of the season, and Bella Dialdas, who all played with Major Colours were awarded to Sophie some regularity in the team (the Dialdas Lundsberg-Nielsen and Zoe Sciver. one point we had to extract ‘Chappers’ family making their presence known)! from a Crawfurd House reunion! We A massive thank you has to go to our really appreciate everyone who has been The season began with three days of coaches this year. Justin and Jamie involved in coaching the tennis team, as preseason training, culminating in a were amazing and put us through our it is never an easy task, and you have singles tournament and barbecue. The paces a bit on court. They have always really made it a pleasure to be part of! first two pairs then played Charterhouse been there to help the team, and Justin in the Branston Shield Tournament. We even put in an appearance at Eton, so It was, altogether, a really pleasing won resoundingly in tornado-like we were sad to disappoint him with a season, and I enjoyed being a part of a conditions, only to draw St. George’s in loss! Personally, I’d like to say thank you team made up of such willing players. the next round – that was the end of our for helping me to improve so much over Well played everyone, it’s great to have Branston Shield bid. The first two the past five years, and it is safe to say an unbeaten season! It is over to all matches of term were disappointingly my backhand will suffer in their absence. those promising L6th- and 5th-form rained off. After a rather overcast start to Not to forget Mrs Drinkall, who has players to keep the strong tradition of the season we really began to shine, supported and organised us this year. girls’ tennis at Epsom alive! Maybe one with important wins over Hurstpierpoint, Dealing with the comings and goings of day we’ll even beat St. George’s ... Wellington and Eastbourne. Perhaps the girls preparing for exams is never easy, most satisfying result was beating our but she has done it perfectly, even if at Zoe Sciver

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Note from the coach:

The most successful pair of Zoe Sciver and Sophie Lundsberg-Nielsen returned to the 1st VI for their second season, and performed superbly throughout. They led the way with confidence, played some exciting tennis as our 1st pair and will be sorely missed.

Lindsay Sinclair and Amelia Warner battled hard as our regular 2nd pairing, producing some good victories along U15 the way, often holding their nerve through tense tiebreaks. A Both teams, having been so keen to play mixture of combinations supported the team at 3rd couple. after their first training sessions of the Polly Norkett, Hannah Wilkinson, Charlotte Dialdas, Bella term, faced disappointment when the Dialdas, Amber Billings and Igul Nazarova all contributed first matches of the year against King’s something to our unbeaten season. Canterbury were cancelled due to bad weather. Undeterred, they made the most of their coaching sessions. After Well done to all involved, who have trained hard in pretty awful two weeks of honing their ‘killer conditions and played with consistency and commitment instincts’, the A team played Hurstpierpoint at home, but, after a throughout the exam period. Good luck to all those leaving close match, in which many games went us, we hope they continue to enjoy their tennis. to deuce, we lost 4–5. The following week the A team made up for this with a Mrs F. C. Drinkall 6–3 win against St. John’s.

Double Major Colours As the season progressed, the B team Zoe Sciver joined the As in playing against City of London Freeman’s School and Major Colours Wellington College, but, sadly, they did not manage to convert their dedication Sophie Lundsberg-Nielsen in training into wins on the day. Our final match of the season, at Eastbourne Full Colours College, also ended in disappointment, Igul Nazarova, with two 9–0 defeats. Miss Brabham Polly Norkett and Mrs Keevil would like to thank Emma Borch for her great work as Half Colours captain this year and, indeed, all the girls Amber Billings, Gemma Pullman in the squad for their commitment in training. Colts Colours Hannah Wilkinson, Charlotte Dialdas Miss H. S. Brabham

House Senior Trophy Raven

114 BASKET- BALL Basketball at Epsom continued to flourish this year. The team lost several key players from the previous season, and was relatively young, but the players remained optimistic for a successful season. The aim of the club at the start of the season was to maintain and develop the fixture list, give experience to the young players and provide opportunities for students to gain England Basketball Awards in table officiating, refereeing and coaching. As well as playing in the Surrey County League, the school played a number of friendly matches. By arranging more games the players improved, as they were able to apply their individual skills in a competitive team situation.

The team finished fourth in the Surrey The team was well captained by Jason The third annual tournament was held in County League, losing to older teams Yeung, who not only played in all of the March and contested by St. George’s that have physically stronger players. matches, but also administered the team and Wilson’s. In an exciting final, Epsom But there were good wins against the and took training sessions with the lost to Wilson’s, who were presented other opposition. Jason Yeung and younger players. Ian Yeung and Kenneth with the trophy by former ‘Athletes in Zedrick Cheung were invariably the top Yip officiated at every home game, Action’ and professional player Danny scorers due to their good ‘outside’ making a significant contribution to the Davies. Thanks are extended to Mr shooting. Ben Galazka, Hong Yu Zhao organisation of the team. A junior team, Drinkall and Mr Pincus for proving and Clive Zhou played hard close to the captained by Sean Jagger, provided an guidance, driving the minibus to away basket and Bryan Hui played well in the outlet for the younger players to play fixtures and helping with the entire guard position. Jason Chan, Philip Chow organised games, and to further their organisation throughout the year. and Kevin Wong emerged as very skills in preparation for the following talented players who will make a years. Due to the increasing popularity Jason Yeung significant contribution to the team next of basketball, the second annual Inter- season. house Basketball Competition took place and was won by Fayrer.

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GOLF

The College golf team has had a busy year of autumn and summer fixtures. We have been rebuilding the side that has played in three consecutive HMC Finals (placing second, third and fourth), so we were pleased to get to the semi-final this year before losing to Reed’s golf academy.

Most matches have been handicap win his first freshman event. Meanwhile, friendlies, where we have won our fair last year’s leavers Kuhler and Morgan share. Matches at Walton Heath remain not only played for the OEs in the final of a highlight of course, and we have many the Halford Hewitt, but also won the players rapidly improving as a result. Ben BUSF Championships with Durham. Kuhler and Rachel Williams have won most matches, while Ollie Noble, Jamie Our main problems arise from early Barr, Nick Long, Myles Pittam, Max exam leave, and the encroachment of Holder and William Candy show great too many non-sporting events on to promise. Tuesdays, on which ‘minor sports’ depend. Over the past year, 26 different David Boote has shone on the players have made the team. My thanks international stage, representing to Mrs Irvine and Mr Henson, who work Wales at schoolboy and full senior hard behind the scenes to ensure amateur levels in home internationals, support from grass-roots level on the and finishing seventh and 15th in the Downs to helping me organise a busy Southern and English Amateur fixture list. respectively. He has now begun his golfing scholarship at Stanford Mr P. J. Irvine University in California, managing to

116 junior Dodd Speaking Competition This year’s junior Dodd Speaking Competition offered younger members of the College the opportunity to develop and hone their public speaking skills. The speakers worked in teams of three – one to introduce the chosen topic, one to deliver the body of the argument and one to sum up.

The teams had dreamed up a somewhat confident efforts. It was not easy to pick Hancock delivered a masterful diverse set of topics, ranging from the a standout group, however, and although presentation on fundamentalism, but the serious matter of sweatshops to a light- a talk on exploding pigeons raised a few deserved winners were Amy Bramworth, hearted exploration of happiness, but laughs, the Headmaster, in his role of Aidan Smith and Lewis Bizaoui for their every group had clearly made a adjudicator, ultimately settled on a rather impassioned plea to parents to fix the real effort to rise to the challenge of provocative effort by Juyeon Oh, Astrid economic mess the country finds the evening. Molke and Catrine Gillies on the theme itself in. of nudity. Among the M4s some nerves were Mr M Zacharias understandably evident, but special The U4s certainly built on the successes mentions must go to Jonathan Pollard of last year, and, again, it was difficult to and William Slough for their mature and decide on a clear first place. George

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EPSOMIAN 12 YOUNG CO-OPERATIVES

Each year the Young Co-operatives support a project run by the Landirani Trust, aiming to help those struggling to live in Malawi. This year we aimed to help over 100 women change their lives – switching from growing tobacco crops to growing groundnuts.

The Trust is keen that tobacco should By the end of the year, and with the help A huge thank you goes to those pupils no longer be grown, as the crop itself of the charity committee, we were able who have worked tirelessly throughout damages the health of the women and to hand over a cheque for £4,600 to the the year to raise a significant sum of children who grow and pick it and the Trust. This year we handed the cheque money and to Mrs Symons, who has market in tobacco is very variable. A to Jack Maduka – the Education Officer worked with me to help make sure each crop of groundnuts can be sold at a from the Trust who is based in Malawi. project was a success. Bo Wen Yu and fixed price to the orphanages run by the At the end of year dinner he spoke of Emma Scott were awarded the Young Trust and made into a nutritious meal for how he knew of Epsom College before Co-operative Prize at the end of the year the orphans or it can be sold and traded he arrived here because each week he as a reward for their unstinting support to international companies who have handed out polo shirts to the orphans to of all the projects. agreed to buy the crop. play in for their football matches which were embroidered with the College Mrs H. Hynd This year we needed to make big money. crest. He had also recently handed out a We started the year by selling cakes at number of mosquito nets to children Open Day – an event that raised over paid for by the College. £300. This gave us funds to support other events. Some projects worked well this year – Christmas decorations were a By the end of the year, and great success and celebrating Chinese New Year in the snow was magical. with the help of the charity Other projects faired less well – we are still trying to trade our way into profit with our sweets project. Krispy Kremes committee, we were able to remains a popular product throughout the school. This year saw us, for the first hand over a cheque for £4,600 time, trying to sell outside the school, with pupils attending the Downsend to the Trust. Epsom Lodge Christmas Fair.

118 YOUNG ENTERPRISE

This academic year, two Young Enterprise companies will sell unless the sales team actively were formed, with 12 L6th members in each group. ‘360 promote the products.

Degrees’ was managed by Claudia Porter and Amber As well as selling products, we attended Billings and ‘Prism’ was managed by Ashley Gillan and many trade fairs and competitions, both locally and regionally. In the East and Olivia Robinson. Throughout the year, both groups were Mid Surrey final on 15th March, we won very successful in creating new products and generating an award for our YouTube clip, won the a substantial profit. Presentation Award and came third overall in the Best Company category customs. It also allowed us to become (out of 15 YE companies). The trophies Company Report: wholesalers, as we sold them in bulk to were presented by Chris Grayling MP. neighbouring schools. In addition to the We qualified for the Surrey Finals, which Prism onesies, we sold leavers’ hoodies and were held at Surrey University on 1st wristbands to the former U6th, friendship May, and on the night we were awarded Our main initiative for this year was the bracelets and hand-wrapped candy the Best Marketing Strategy Prize, which ‘Onesies’, which are full-sized, colourful canes, and, in total, we generated was sponsored by Proctor and Gamble. jumpsuits. We managed to sell over 500 approximately £20,000 in revenue. At It was mentioned that all the units in a range of colours! These were the other end of the spectrum from the presentations were so professional that sold inside College and to friends, initially onesies, there was the candy cane sale. they would rival any real commercial on a pre-order basis, and then later on a It was an attempt to tap into the festive situation. In the nine years Mrs Irvine has first-come first-served basis. This project season; however, after hours of curling been involved with YE, this is the highest allowed us to learn all the advantages ribbons and attaching fiddly cards, we award a YE company has achieved. Mrs (and, unfortunately, the disadvantages) earned a total of £40, not quite the profit S. Olsen, a YE board member and of working with an overseas supplier, as we had hoped for! One thing that we Epsom parent, spoke about how the well as learning all about taxes and learned the hard way was that nothing level of competition was unbelievably

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Overall, this year has been a great success for 360 Degrees. We learned a lot of valuable business skills, which we not only needed for the OCR examination, but also for later on in life when we enter the business world.

Claudia Porter Managing Director Amber-Rose Billings Deputy Managing Director

Max Skan, Jamie Gibbons, Caitlin Chan, Eric Yau, Samson Lam, Jade Mamlouk, Oliver Fox, Tayo Adeoye, about event management throughout Sam Owen, Charlotte Brown the process of organising the disco. Over 150 students attended, and, The year was wrapped up with an thanks to our DJ, at end of the night enjoyable dinner, which allowed everyone everyone was up on their feet dancing. to celebrate each other’s achievements and thank those who helped out However, we did not just stop there. We throughout the process. It was attended then decided to produce a range of by both Young Enterprise companies, sports tops and sports jumpers which Young Co-operatives and various students of Epsom College could wear members of staff and associated during training and activities across colleagues that have contributed school. It was our biggest task of the throughout the year. A special thanks year and it taught us all about teamwork. goes to Mr Fox and Mrs Irvine, our link high. She said that the students involved We had six different garments that advisor and teacher, for helping us to were a credit to themselves and to the students could choose from. All the reach the goal that we have College. garments were in the Epsom College accomplished. It could not have been colours: blue, white & orange. We done without them. Also thanks go out Ashley Gillan generated a lot of profit and we also paid to Mrs Drinkall, Mr Williams, Mrs Managing Director Epsom Tax, which went to The Children’s Teasdale and Miss Wickham for Trust Tadworth. supporting Young Enterprise and our Olivia Robinson team this year. Deputy Managing Director Our final business venture was the selling of Easter chocolate. We bonded as a It is clear that every member that took Amanda Cheng, Ben Galazka, team in this task when we had to sit part in Young Enterprise this year has Derek Lee, Sam McConnell, Igul down and wrap over 500 chocolate gained a great deal from the experience Nazarova, Samuel Oulton, Daniel pieces. It was an experience because and has learned new things about Stanton, Bogdan Stoichescu, we learned that market research is really themselves and those around them. Cathy Wong important in a business, and if you don’t Overall, we have followed the Young do it you could end up not having the Enterprise motto: ‘Learning by doing’. demand for your products. Company Report: 360 Degrees As a company, we chose our name as we wanted to adapt the motto ‘an all- round service’. I believe that this motto sums up what we did as a company throughout the academic year.

At first, we wanted to provide a service to the younger year groups and offer those pupils who were new to the school an opportunity to spend a night having fun and getting to know more people. We therefore decided to host an M4/U4 Winter Wonderland disco, which was a great success, and we learned a lot

120 Operation Wallacea

This summer, a group of 22 students and three members of staff embarked on a two-week expedition to Indonesia.

Operation Wallacea saw the party, led by Dr. Dowdeswell, spend a week in a remote rainforest, working alongside scientists to collect habitat survey data, and a second week on a small island called Hoga, where they learned about key research being carried out on the effect of climate change on reef ecology.

The following extracts detail some of the highlights

Labundo Bundo Staying at the village was an experience would be fair to say that nobody got any expert and the bat team. When we left it like nothing else. The allocation of a local sleep that first night. Despite this, was hard to say our goodbyes to the family was a lucky dip. Some got beds, everyone leaped at the opportunities, families we had become so acquainted while others, like me, found a straw from climbing trees to visiting schools, with over the past week. mattress on the floor. The beds one we came to love all the village had to quickly acclimates too, but the chickens offer – apart from the rice-based diet! Frederic Orr and stray dogs that also call your house During our village stay we spent time home took a little longer, and I think it with scientists, including the butterfly

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Forest Camp After a 5-hour trek through mud, leech-infested jungle and waterfalls we reached Bala camp. Cleverly constructed by the guides from wood and tarpaulin, it had everything we needed: hammocks, river-washing facilities, a trench in the ground (you can guess the purpose of this), a cooking area and fire, bag storage and a dining area. A personal highlight was washing in the river in the dark next to a tree that was home to a bird- eating spider!

While at Bala we carried out a habitat survey, the data from which goes towards the United Nations’ REDD conservation scheme. We investigated the distribution of dung beetles at different altitudes in the rainforest. Some of the group were lucky and saw tarsiers (an elusive animal that gremlins were based on) and a civet (a ‘cat-dog’). The local guides taught us to make traditional rattan bracelets and showed us jungle survival skills. For me, our time in Bala was the most memorable part of the trip.

Dr. R. Dowdeswell

122 First Time Diving in Hoga

Throughout my time in Indonesia, I have gathered memories that I will treasure throughout my life. One of those memories was diving in Hoga. Hoga was like a paradise island after the jungle, and the diving was our reward for the work we did in the jungle. Being a new diver, I knew I was very privileged to have my first dive in this location, and after it I knew why. The whole area is diverse, untouched and very scenic, with the aquatic wildlife swimming a couple of centimetres from your face. Although some of the animals were dangerous, we were in very safe hands, and we had the privilege of seeing these rare, amazing animals in their natural environment. Diving in Hoga is exceptional, and to be apart of the expedition team that went to Indonesia was just an amazing opportunity.

Haran Nadesan

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An Experienced Diver’s View

After a rather eventful day of sea travel, the group finally arrived on the much- anticipated Hoga Island. For many, unfortunately, the first night was a difficult one, with an unpleasant condition striking down 15 of our 25-strong group. Yet, after the night had passed, the first survivors struggled out and quick recoveries meant the majority were back on their feet and diving in no time at all!

After sitting through the ‘everything will kill you’ talk, the first challenge arrived, with the referral dive. While observing the lazy puffer fish and glimpsing two turtles on the underwater platforms at buoy four, we went through some basic skills, and soon the reef ecology course was ready for greater adventures. With two dives and two lectures a day, we were the busiest group on Hoga. Yet, the group was still eager for every dive. We started by examining coral and algae, and the lectures certainly helped, as we were quickly able to identify different types of each. As the week progressed we moved on to crustaceans and fish. With sightings ranging from tiny shrimp to crocodile fish, the diversity was astonishing. Even the most experienced divers in the group were amazed by what we glimpsed.

Nearing the end of the week, the group was taken to the Outer Pinnacle, an undisturbed reef, not only to show the bio-diversity, but also to compare the devastating effects of local fishing methods to the natural, unspoiled reefs. From the first seconds of submerging the difference was startling, due to the scale of the sizes of schools of fish. Swimming across the reef, with the wall on your left, the schools swam around you, almost cocooning the group in a blanket of colour, so close that by stretching out your hand you would have stroked their delicate fins. From lizard fish to trigger fish, the diversity was incredible, and in astounding quantities.

The trip to Hoga provided astonishing sites, but the combination of dives and lectures, allowing us to broaden our knowledge and identify the amazing things we saw, made the experience truly unforgettable!

Anne Hogarth

124 Boys’ Rugby Tour to Singapore & Australia In August, a group of 38 boys and 5 staff set off on an ambitious rugby tour of Australia and Singapore.

We arrived in Brisbane to an Australian winter, with temperatures around 24 degrees, which gladdened many of the tourists’ hearts. It was the start of a 21- day tour in which we would travel from Brisbane, through Alstonville, Sydney, Melbourne and Darwin, before jetting off to Singapore. Along the way we had the Epsom boys are likely to encounter. We opportunity to visit theme parks and a also had a range of conditions to play in: crocodile farm, feed fishes at a marine at St. Kevin’s College we were treated to sanctuary, brush up on the local culture flooded pitches, which led to some at different museums (including a display entertainingly muddy and soaked of aboriginal artwork as well as the players; in Singapore the weather was sports museum at the MCG) and surf warm and hugely humid, which meant under the glorious blue skies at the open and extremely tiring rugby. Sunshine Coast. Sunshine Coast Grammar School offered the best of all worlds, which was The rugby was tough and varied, from a blessing, as it was the opening venue the rural aggression at Alstonville Rugby on tour. Club to the class and power of The King’s School, Parramatta, who are as Mr R. Wycherley good a school rugby side as any that the

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Boys’ Rugby Tour to Singapore & Australia

126 Hockey & Netball Tour Blog: Singapore & Australia 7 August throughout the tour. Great play was where we played hockey against Loreto shown by Amelia Warner in the U17 A Normanhurst School. The A team got off When we arrived in Coolangatta, we game, captain Gemma Pullman in the to a shaky start; however, excellent play boarded a catamaran which took us to U17 B game and Jodie Koep in the U17 from goalie Charlotte Dialdas kept Tangalooma Island Resort, on Moreton C game. Epsom in the game and earned her the Island. We travelled to the desert where player of the match again. Epsom we went sand tobogganing, and, as the 10 August dominated the B-team match, and Imi sun set, we had the opportunity to feed Bole and Sarah Chapman were named the wild dolphins! We set off for Dreamworld: one of the players of the match. After the matches, Gold Coast’s top theme parks. With the we were met by our hosts from our next 8 August Tower of Terror II and Giant Drop rides opponents: Mater Maria. conquered by many, the tour moved on After shopping on the South Bank, we to Surfers Paradise, after picking up 13 August travelled to Ascot to play our first hockey Ashley Gillan and Dani Tullett, who had matches against St. Margaret’s Anglican arrived from Indonesia. After a tour of Palm Beach and plenty of School. Both were tough games; photo opportunities, we headed back to however, goalkeeper Charlotte Dialdas 11 August Mater Maria to play netball. The C team made terrific saves, earning herself was outperformed by a very talented player of the match. Epsom dominated We spent the morning on the beach at opposition; however, Scarlett Brice- the B game, with goals from Holly Ellis, Surfers Paradise celebrating Clare Adams earned player of the match. The Natalie Edwards and player of the match McCallum’s birthday, and then flew to Bs managed a win, with Becky Saunders Rachel Williams. Afterwards, we were Sydney. We went out with the Epsom being nominated player of the match. paired with our first set of hosts with boys’ rugby tour and had a relaxed The A team put on a strong performance, excitement and apprehension. evening in the city. but ended up 1 goal down. Briana Norris was awarded player of the match for her 9 August 12 August strength and agility in defence. After the matches we all enjoyed our first billet We saw the panoramic views of Brisbane Mrs Cloonan joined the tour, and we all party! at Mount Cooh-tha and then shopped in headed to Sydney Harbour, where we the Queensgate area. We then played took an adrenaline-pumping jet boat 14 August St. Margaret’s at netball. Despite all three ride. Needless to say, there was plenty teams losing, it prepared us for the of screaming and everyone got soaked! It was on to Barker College to play Aussie style of play that we faced Later, we headed to Barker College, netball. Barker were well drilled and we

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Hockey & Netball Tour Blog: Singapore

& Australia 18 August We travelled to Litchfield National Park where we visited an idyllic waterfall, Wangi Falls, where we sunbathed and swam … despite the crocs! 19th August We played hockey against Northern Territory representative teams, the Bs playing against the State U13 team. We responded to the skills of the opposition with poise and energy, but they were came away empty-handed; however, 16 August well drilled and fierce, and an early injury there was great play from Roisin took Charley Brown out of defence. Monaghan in the As, Lydia Sheils in the The U6th’s results were received at the Despite Tayla McGaghey and Briana Bs and Holly Ellis and Tara Dolan in the Koala Park Sanctuary. After an emotional Norris’s excellent performances, we Cs. Afterwards, we were paired off for morning with the animals, we played couldn’t grasp a win. The U17 A team three nights of billeting. netball against Roseville College. Both played the U15 squad, and the skilful the A and B teams won, with excellent opposition were matched well by 15 August play from Briana Norris, Lydia Sheils, Epsom, resulting in a scoreless game. Becky Saunders and Hannah Wilkinson. After the exhausting matches we After some of us embarked on the The C team showed steady enjoyed ice baths before a movie in the Sydney Harbour Bridge climb, we improvement, with Jodie Koep Deckchair Cinema. headed back to Barker for some showcasing her agility and speed in the challenging hockey matches. The Bs centre court. 20th August battled hard, gaining a draw, with Imi Bole named player of the match. In the 17 August We visited Crocosaurus Cove, where we As, Charlotte Dialdas was awarded fed and held baby crocs, before playing player of the match for the third game The staff took most of us to the Sydney our final hockey matches in Australia. running as she defended strongly, Aquarium, while a couple of girls visited Sam Brown and Tara Dolan played well despite distractions from the supporting the Sydney Opera House. We spent the in the Bs, and despite the NT U15s Barker boys. A goal from Izzy Ashe afternoon on the freezing cold Bondi scoring in the first minute, the A team earned us a draw. Beach before flying to scorching hot fought back, with Emily Hailstone and Darwin. Izzy Ashe contributing in attack.

128 21st August efforts, noting that 7 wins out of 17 netball matches was an incredible We went to the Aquascene Fish Feeding performance given the strength of netball Sanctuary at Doctors Gully in the in Australia! Similarly, losing only 5 of the morning, and then played our final 11 hockey matches indicated significant netball matches in Australia against improvement. Eliza Melville and Hannah Kormilda College. We won all three King recognised the efforts of the matches, with the players of the match coaches and provided much humour in awarded to Amber Billings, Lydia Sheils recalling the highlights of the tour. and Tuscan Lambrechts. In the evening we supported the Epsom boys in their 25th August matches. After relaxing by the pool or shopping, 22nd August we headed to the airport for the long journey home. On our last day in Darwin, we headed to the Wave Lagoon with the boys for a It was an incredible tour, and a huge relaxing day in the sun. We then headed thank you goes to all the parents, OEs, to the airport for our flight to Singapore sponsors and hosts who made it – this would be the final stage of the possible. tour. 23rd August We spent the morning shopping in Chinatown and exploring Clarke Quay Awards: before going to Raffles School to play Hockey Captain Award: Netball B-team MVP: netball. The U17 A team won, with Ellie Eliza Melville Becky Saunders Thomas playing solidly, while Briana Norris anchored the defence. There was Netball Captain Award: Netball C-team MVP: impressive play from Imi Bole and Sarah Hannah King Jodie Koe Chapman in the Bs. Eliza Melville Hockey A-team MVP: Baby of the Tour: captained the hockey against the Hannah Wilkinson Holly Ellis Singapore Cricket Club skilfully; however, an unfortunate goal lost us the game. Honourable Mention for Rookie Award: We then headed for dinner and a well- A-team Hockey: Izzy Ashe, Ellie Thomas deserved night out in Clarke Quay! Dani Tullett, Lindsay Sinclair Unlucky in Luggage Award: Hockey B-team MVP: Roisin Monaghan 24th August Clare McCallum Cool Under Pressure Award: The last day was spent at Universal Honourable Mention for Charlotte Dialdas Studios with the boys. After a long day B-team Hockey: Tara Dolan Top Tourists: Tayla McGaghey, of fun, we enjoyed our tour dinner: Netball A-team MVP: Tuscan Lambrechts speeches were made and awards Briana Norris Top Top Tourist: Lydia Sheils presented. Mrs Drinkall praised our

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Battlefield Trip Over the course of the Diamond Jubilee ‘extended weekend’, over 30 M4 students, accompanied by Dr. Tod, Miss Beesley, Dr. Meier and Mr Willis, travelled via Eurotunnel to the Battlefields of Ypres and the Somme. The weather was miserable for the whole trip, with heavy winds and constant drizzle; however, this only contributed to a more realistic experience when visiting the preserved trenches at Sanctuary Wood, which was our first site of interest. Smiling faces or not, there is no doubt everyone thoroughly enjoyed visiting the awe-inspiring Vimy memorial, which remembers Canada’s courageous efforts many sites on the Ypres salient, including the incredibly during the war. On the journey back, we moving cemeteries at Tyne Cot and Langemark. had a continual flow of commentary on the Somme’s importance from an impressive tour guide, learning a vast In the latter half of the first day, and after The second day was spent in France, amount of knowledge, which proved arrival at the comfortable hostel in Ypres, visiting the sites on the Somme, rather helpful for the M4 Summer exam a well-deserved meal in a local restaurant including the spectacular Lochnagar question on the Somme! was much appreciated. After this we Crater, followed by the fascinating went on to commemorate Epsom’s original battlefields at Newfoundland We arrived back at the College at associations with Ypres, including a brief Park. We also passed by some 7.00pm on Tuesday, a rather weary visit to St. George’s Memorial Church, magnificent sites, such as the stunning bunch, having enjoyed both an before heading to the famous, and very Thiepval Memorial and the Ulster Tower. educational and memorable experience. poignant, Menin Gate ceremony. Finally, We especially enjoyed learning about the Amazingly, we also all returned with our we topped off a wonderful evening by development of the First World War own wellington boots! Thank you to all sampling some renowned Belgium warfare at Vimy Ridge, which included the teachers who took us. chocolates, and there is no denying how a remarkable tour of the tunnels. We delicious they were! then concluded with a visit to the Lily Upot and Zoe Olsen

130 Junior Colts’ Edinburgh Rugby Tour

Day 1 We left school early on 28th August and operating in a league; it was all a lot of arrived in Scotland at around 9.00am. fun, but, unfortunately, Tristan broke his We made our way to the university, wrist while goalkeeping – obviously where we picked up Connor, who had rugby is safer than football! We returned taken the train in from Newcastle. After to the hotel for a well-earned rest. this we went straight to the training ground at Peffermill and started our first training session. It was definitely a wake- Day 2 up call from the summer break, with a very tough fitness session with Mr In the morning we had an early start Farrelly. again and went down for a stretching session. After breakfast we went back to We had another training session after our rooms to get changed for the lunch. This was followed by free time; morning training session. This session this gave people the chance to sort out was mainly based around building our any little niggles that they had picked up game plan. We had to sort out our earlier in the day. The meals we were structure after along time away from the served at the university accommodation game. Once we were little more certainly helped us to recover. After organised, we went for lunch before dinner we made our way to the 5-a-side taking the bus to Dollar Academy. football pitch. There were five teams

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The bus journey back to Edinburgh was definitely a memorable one. After dinner we got onto the bus to go to the bowling alley. We were all very tired after two very action-packed days.

Day 3 On the third morning we were treated to an open-top bus tour of Edinburgh. It was very interesting to see both sides of Edinburgh. After this we were allowed to explore the city for a couple hours. After this we visited The National Monument of Scotland, on Calton Hill, looking down over the city.

The school that we were supposed to play before returning home cancelled unexpectedly, and this meant we had to find another game. Mr MacDowell seemed to call every school in the area, and finally managed to organise a fixture against Edinburgh High School. They did not want to play contact for a full 60 minutes, so we played semi-contact for about 20 minutes and then also played them at contact for about 15 minutes. Upon arrival we had a little bit of time were going to be no easy opposition. We still came away with a win to before the game to warm up; it was safe After a couple delays due to an intense continue our unbeaten streak. to say that we were ready for the game. lightning storm directly overhead, it was We went back into the changing room clear that we were not going to be able After the game we headed straight for to get psyched up. The game began; we to play the full 60 minutes. Luckily, we the airport. It was definitely a great three kicked off. We were plunged into a very had put enough points on the board to days. intense game atmosphere. We were a secure the win before the match was little bit slow to start, and this resulted in finally abandoned due to lightning Connor Norris them putting 7 points on us after the first strikes. 10 minutes. We then realised that they

132 Target Rifle Michaelmas Zedrick Cheung made a fine start of things, being awarded his Major Colours at the beginning of term for his role in the winning Ashburton VIII the previous summer. The 100 Competition re- emerged with a vengeance: Zedrick, Henry Awin, Bogdan Stoichescu and Ben Ross all contenders. As the weeks progressed, it narrowed down to a competition between Zedrick and Henry, with Zedrick just pipping into first place.

On the match front, we experienced an unfortunate loss to a very strong RGS team, but our second new recruit, Ryan Lee, showered himself in glory by winning the Reserve Man Competition on the day. We thought we’d seen enough of RGS for the term, but returned there the next Tuesday for the Staniforth Stage 1, as our home range was out of action. By Thursday we were back in business and were pondering how best to bring on the wealth of talent being discovered in Junior Rifle Club. Thanks must go to James Scott for all of his help with the JRC sessions.

After half term, we received the great news that recent leavers William Broad and Samir Amin had been selected for the GB U19s and we had managed third in the Staniforth Stage 1, behind both points overall, and it seemed that the RGS A and B teams ... some catching top polo pairing was destined to still be up to do! The Harrow match resulted in JEL and HJMA. It was a tremendous OE a loss for all bar our team of four, but it turnout. gave us a necessary shake-up and we shot against Lancing the following Staniforth results were returned with a Tuesday and won – Seb Sander winning creditable fourth place, given our slightly the Reserve Man Competition and Ben inexperienced team this year; an Ross and Bonnie Cheung the polo improvement of 8 points on the first pairs! stage had been made, so a respectable outcome. Needless to say, our OE Staniforth Stage 2 arrived, and a really match score was our best of the year so solid set of performances left us satisfied far – 777! Ben Ross secured the Club with our efforts and awaiting the return Champs salver in the final weeks and post at the end of term. The OE match term ended on a high with HJMA being was staged in a beautifully decorated selected for the Athelings and receiving range thanks to Henry and Jamie Major Colours to recognise this Thompson. The OEs pipped us by 5 achievement.

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true high, with Bogdan Stoichescu Harrow we managed wins in the VIII, pair receiving the news that he had made the and reserve man elements of the match. cut for the Maple Taste Selection The improvement on our Lancing match weekend for the Channel Islands tour. score was uplifting moving into the final week of training. The Feltonfleet match proved an excellent afternoon, and our JRCers The Country Life final appeared all too were given a unique opportunity to soon, and, after a focused afternoon’s experience a match environment early in efforts and a positive landscape shoot, their shooting careers. Although a the cards were whisked away and we convincing win by the more experienced were left to wait. The following weekend Feltonfleet team, our juniors gained saw a double Bisley visit for some as we valuable experience. Post half term we adventured into the NSRA’s 50m range travelled to Lancing, where we fielded for the first time in several years. two strong IV’s teams and ended up Club Champs proved the order of the finishing first and third. Our comparable following Tuesday, and with no further VIII scores gave us a win outright, and takers, Ben Ross was announced the Ryan Lee was successful in the reserve victor with a perfect 200/200 over two man part of the competition. The snap 5-bull targets. In the final week of term, Lent mechanism at Lancing caused some Colts Colours were awarded to Michael initial worries as it was fully automated. Faulkner and Half Colours to Bogdan We reconvened and got straight back Stoichescu, Bonnie Cheung, Jamie into Country Life training and auditions The week after and we were attempting Thompson and Ryan Lee. The squad for the Landscape ‘talker’. Henry Awin a two-match week, rolling out the 5-bull reconvened for Easter Camp at Bisley was identified as our ‘talker’ for the targets for a one-off afternoon, amid for three days of team-building and Country Life Competition, with Ben Ross Country Life preparation, in order to shooting-related activity. One highlight of aiding him. Private rifles were rolled out undertake a postal competition against the trip was Bonnie achieving her initials and positions adapted. The senior squad Westminster. The match loss was not at last, but on a 2&10 and in a match no were introduced to the Landscape for completely unexpected, and we less! the first time and the week ended on a refocused on GRS on the Thursday. At

134 Summer Camp & Imperial

We gathered at College ready to head to pressure was off for the team next year. Bisley, supported by a new face in the The schools’ IV team put in a solid shape of Dr. Huxter. We were sadly performance to finish fifth against stiff missing Elly K, but, luckily, she was able competition, and our Cadet Pair, formed to join us in time for the main Thursday of Matt Barker and Seb Sander, came event. Everybody got stuck into plenty of fourth overall, but were only a mere 3 shooting, and the scores reflected points behind the winning pair from steady improvement, with special Dollar. Henry Awin strode out to shoot Summer mention to Jack Griffin, who was clearly our Spencer Mellish, but his heart wasn’t discovering his mojo as the week quite in it after the day’s full effort of The fullbore season was fully upon us. progressed. Although we were coaching, and he finished a little way The Clayton marked the first weekend simmering along a little under the leading down the rankings. out proper and we came a frustrating levels of Wellington and Gresham’s, we sixth after some fairly major teething were sustaining solid scores and placing Prize-giving allowed us chance to troubles. In the second week, Chris prominently in the concurrent team support Wellington and RGS fully in their Dawes and Rahul Ganguly were getting matches. Wednesday’s hysterical success in the VIII Competition. A swift to grips with the proper outdoor stuff weather did not deter the diehards from wash- and brush-up and we were into and making admirable progress. The venturing forth, and Ben Ross, Zedrick the final squad debrief and then a most LMRA match on the Saturday, ably Cheung and Sam Owen, in particular, enjoyable Ashburton Dinner to celebrate supported by a welcome visit from Mrs put in some excellent scores for the the year’s successes. Zedrick was Drinkall, who was in the Bisley vicinity, day. successful in swiping the Officer’s Cup, saw us beat all other teams by a clear Matt Barker the Mike Nash Trophy, Sam 17 points and setting a team PB of Ashburton Day itself rolled around and Owen the Crawfurd Cup for top scorer 520.40. Our victory in the Sawyer Cup the team applied a concerted focus in all in the VIII on Ashburton Day and Bonnie was a nervous one, given that it was a areas, overcoming its relatively fledgling Cheung was awarded the ‘Postle Pot’ non-standard match due to a helicopter status to put in an impressive for her contribution to, and support of, landing in the danger area halfway performance. Ben Ross faced the same the team throughout the year. through 600x, resulting in the rest of the challenge that Zedrick had in the afternoon’s shooting being cancelled previous year – losing his lunch break to After a day of rest, those staying on for and the first five shooters’ scores only the necessity of a tie shoot for the Iveagh the Imperial gathered for kit issuing and being counted at that range; at this point Competition of top shot at 500x. An an early night before beginning the it really did matter how you had admirable shoot saw him finishing third individual competitions. Seb Sander got constructed your firing order! overall, but still firmly in the medals for bitten by the bug and chose to stay on this high-profile competition. to do Queens, and Zedrick proved his In the final schools’ match of the term, worth by making it through to Queen’s 2 we finished a solid third in the Surrey With all the firers finished, we had the with a superb 104.12 and placing 53rd! Schools’ Championship, after some agonising wait for final positions, and questionable ammunition issues, but the hopes were raised as we appeared To finish, on behalf of the squad, I must victory of the day was Jamie second on the leader board. Frustratingly, take the opportunity to offer my sincerest Thompson’s; top scoring out of all firers it was not to be, as RGS Guildford, our thanks to Mr Gill, Mrs Odendaal, Mr in the competition at 600x with a 34.5. friendly local rivals, had submitted their Burgess, Mr Bonner, Mr Hampshire and The remainder of the term passed scores relatively late in the day and our new recruit Dr. Huxter. It is also the quickly with steady and final progress pipped us to second place. The final opportunity to bid farewell to our leavers, being made before the all-important rankings saw a very strong Wellington the U6th crew of Henry Awin, Ben Ross, Schools’ Week focus. Our Family Day team winning outright, followed by RGS Zedrick Cheung, Bonnie Cheung (for the was a huge success, up until wind Guildford then Epsom. It was a most last time, they are not related!) and Jamie stopped play and the shoot had to be satisfying way to end the week. Although Thompson, all of whom have been cancelled because the targets were there was disappointment that we were valuable and supportive members of the being blown away! A superb turnout and not able to retain the trophy for the third squad. We all wish them the very best of show of support from family and friends year in a row, we knew that the luck for the future. cemented the need for this to be an Wellington team had effectively been annual event. unbeatable on the day and that now the Mrs C. Jeans

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EPSOMIAN 12 LEAVING STAFF you need highly qualified and motivated weekend camps and still loves field teachers who are respected and who days, especially those which involve know their subject backwards. overnight elements. It was fitting that he Eric is a true all-round Schoolmaster, should have been promoted to the rank and there is no activity or aspect of of major and be officially recognised as College life which Eric has bypassed. second in command. None of us can His academic interests gave him forget Eric on summer camp. When not involvement with the Political, Geography beavering away on statistics and scores, and Ancient Civilisations societies and, he is usually delivering his one-liner more recently, Earthwatch, remote amusements to the delight of many OEs, sensing and archaeology. He has who have so much admiration and coached numerous sports and organised respect for him. He has always been a biathlons and triathlons; for nearly 30 great supporter of Easter adventure years he has worked on House Athletic training, the demise of which much Standards. Annual superteams would saddens him. Eric also started the not have flourished without his guidance, summer adventure training trips. and this had an immense impact on prep school recruiting. His main activity I could mention so many more areas in has been with swimming (and associated which Eric has been involved – his sports) – he was involved in this from the involvement with the 150th-year College outset and has been i/c for nearly 20 celebrations at the Albert Hall and years. His other passion has been for Guildford Cathedral. He was one of the Eric Huxter drama. He cut his teeth by directing five first to teach IT and was also part of the junior plays, including Androcles and the PSE programme. In recent terms, he “When a man retires and Lion and The Knight of the Burning thoroughly enjoyed supervising the Pestle. In recent times, that passion has Extended Project Qualification. From time is no longer a matter been reignited with an involvement in six where I live, in North Lodge, no day of urgent importance, senior plays in various capacities. starts without first seeing Eric stride across the lawn to check the weather his colleagues generally Naturally, his all-round interests were to station. present him with a watch.” direct him towards a pastoral involvement, and Eric eventually became Of Eric the man? I have immense R. C. Sherriff Housemaster of Carr House, a roll he admiration for him. He has been a great fulfilled with relish for the full 15-year friend, always ready to offer sage advice. To bid farewell to Eric means a quotation stint, earning him membership of the He is always unruffled and approaches is necessary! Sundowners Club. In his last year he decision making in the calmest of ways. was Senior Housemaster, which Of all my colleagues, Eric is most Eric began teaching at Epsom in prepared him for further appointments. passionate about values. He instils in September 1975. He arrived here from Again, his all-round involvement naturally youngsters a sense of responsibility, the Monmouth via Cambridge. He came as qualified him to become the co-ordinator concept of commitment and, above all, a young, enthusiastic all-round of the extracurricular programme, which enables them to recognise that, to earn Schoolmaster. His first passion was has expanded and flourished from Eric’s their privileges they have gained, they obviously for geography, and he was careful nurturing. owe a debt to their community in service. known affectionately in the department No one can question the unstinting as ‘the Bear’; back in those days he was Undoubtedly, an area which has service Eric has given to Epsom pretty grizzly with long black straggly benefited enormously from Eric’s support College. hair and a Nordic beard. A Cambridge and involvement has been the CCF and geographer and a D.Phil. in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. Eric was Mr M. Hampshire Environmental Science, Eric’s lessons commissioned into the CCF in 1976; his are always researched and totally up to involvement has been monumental. He date. Eric demonstrates that in order to ran a training company, organised achieve academic success at Epsom

136 Jane Bathard-Smith

“Do they miss me?” she cried ecstatically.

“The whole town is desolate. All the cars have the left rear wheel painted black as a mourning wreath, and there’s a persistent wail all night along the north shore.”

The Great Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald

The ‘persistent wail’ sounded from both Jane is, first and foremost, a quite appearance of oddly shaped and luridly staff and students the moment that Jane exceptional teacher, and her coloured fairy cakes in the department Bathard-Smith, our much-admired Head expectations of her pupils have only ever – the products of the unfettered culinary of English, announced that she would been exceeded by her expectations of imagination of her three small children. be following a path well-trodden by herself. She has invested the English Jane’s all-too-brief tenure in the disgraced former cabinet ministers: she Department with her scholarship, her department has been rather like those would be leaving us to spend more time passionate enthusiasm for literature and cakes: bright, creative and thoroughly with her family. her boundless energy. She has scoured life enhancing. We will miss her. the theatre listings for performances In my time, I’ve worked with great Heads which would challenge and inspire pupils Mrs A. Drew of English who were erudite, inspirational and raked up every contact to bring and intellectual – and Jane has all of writers and academics into the these qualities (in spades, in fact). But department to push pupils beyond the Jane has something more: she has style. boundaries of the syllabus. She is cool, fun and funky and, let us use this despised monosyllable proudly Jane’s colleagues and pupils have grown for once, she is profoundly nice. accustomed to the sudden, sporadic

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David Schofield Beverley Alex Hughes Gardener David Schofield was a high flyer at Following the opening of a second school, was awarded one of the top drama studio in 2007, it became very firsts in Chemistry at Oxford University in As an Old Epsomian, a former member clear that Epsom College was in dire his year and joined Epsom, in September of White House, Beverley arrived need of a theatre technician, and Alex 2010, after leaving a successful career in forewarned of the demands that Epsom was appointed to this roll. He quickly the city, where he had worked for an College would place on her. I am most established an easy, natural rapport with investment bank. grateful that she didn’t run away at the students in his stage crew activity group thought of all that lay ahead. and worked with many members of He is both an instinctive and outstanding Common Room in their roles in and out teacher, who loves his subject and has As a member of four departments, she of the classroom. the communication skills to convey that has admirably risen to the challenges to his students. His enthusiasm for thrown at her. It is her willingness to Alex is a good collaborator, able to work Chemistry is infectious, and he organised ‘have a go’ that perhaps best closely with several directors at the students to enter academic competitions, characterises Beverley. It would not be College and help interpret their visions attend Chemistry camps at universities unusual for her to teach ‘Concepts of into a reality, both as a theatre technician and took them to the Royal Society Democracy’ period 1, ‘An Introduction in lighting and sound designs, but also Summer Science Exhibition. to Reincarnation’ period 2, ‘Flaws in as a set designer and stage manager. Arguing’ period 3 and then have an EPQ Notable set designs include The He was fully committed on the sports meeting period 4 to catch up on a pupil’s Crucible, with live trees behind a ghostly fields, where he coached rugby and project looking at ‘The impact of abortion gauze, and A Midsummer Night’s football teams, and on the pastoral side on today’s society’. It takes an extremely Dream, with a magical use of fairy lights to his tutees in Robinson. Happy to able person to both handle all this and a sumptuous lighting design. share his other interests and talents, he information and to ensure that, on each ran an investment club for the 6th form, occasion, the pupils are following what In addition to staging school productions, helped with the Duke of Edinburgh’s she says. Alex also worked with me to produce all Award scheme and supported the of the show publicity, from posters to summer cycling option. Beverley has worked tirelessly this year, programmes and tickets. He took on both academically and in Raven, where this role with his usual perfectionism, Dave enjoyed and contributed to almost she has been a Tutor. Beverley’s ensuring a high-quality finish and every aspect of the College; however, unstinting work ethic, enthusiasm for promoting a professional face of the arts his overriding interest was always the new challenges and sharp intellect have to the College and its visitors. academic development and achievement meant that she has been a great of the students in his care, whether it colleague to work with. I wish her all the I have really enjoyed working with Alex involved supporting those that were best for all that the future holds. over the past four years and have valued struggling or stretching those with his endless enthusiasm, his hard working Oxbridge aspirations. He is, therefore, Mrs H. Hynd ethic, his sensitivity to others and his admirably qualified for, and thoroughly utter loyalty and commitment to Drama deserves, his next post and promotion at Epsom College. I wish him great to Head of Chemistry at Sir William happiness as he embarks upon his next Perkins’s School, in Chertsey. He will be adventure, travelling the world with his greatly missed, but leaves with our best wife, Helmi, over the next year. wishes and thanks. Miss K. Chandley Mrs T. Muller

138 PRIZES Subject Prizes Middle Fourth Prizes 5th Form Prizes

Art Catrine Gillies Art Nick Williams Biology Andrew Kersley Biology Tom Brankin-Frisby Chemistry Nicholas Long Chemistry Maria Mikhaylova Computing/IT Edward Aves Computing/IT Nicholas Sadler Design Technology Frances Payne Critical Thinking Matilda Small Drama Jasmine Pourtaheri Design Technology Annemarie Heijna English Ella Witts Drama Charlotte Gadd French Daria Milaeva EAL Rickie Wong Geography Ryan Kuah English Jake McGrath German Georgina Hutchings French Lily Allert History Zoe Olsen Geography Simon Guyott Latin Antonia Turner German Briana Norris Mandarin Nicholas Whitehead History Myles Pittam Mathematics Wendy Zhang Latin Imogen Bole Music William Goddard Mathematics James Moreton PhysICAL EdUCATION Jamie Palmer Music Jae Youn Jung PhysICAL EdUCATION Isabella Dialdas PhysICAL EdUCATION Jodie Koep Physics Mathilde Lundsberg-Nielsen Physics Luke Butcher Religious Studies Jonathan Pollard Religious Studies Rhiannon Tambini-McGee Spanish Harriet Jennings Spanish Danielle Tullett

John Propert Prize for Academic Excellence John Propert Prize for Academic Excellence Edward Aves Maria Mikhaylova Andrew Kersley Jake McGrath Jonathan Pollard Nick Williams

Upper Fourth Prizes Lower Sixth Prizes

Art Lucy Upot Design TechnologY, Biology Ian Yeung Photography Yumi Au Chemistry Hannah Taylor English, French, History, Computing/IT Nathaniel Newman Spanish Harriet Bantock Critical Thinking Sam Flatau Chemistry Ellouise Bishop Design Technology Amy Bramworth Economics Alfie Button Drama Laura Wijsmuller EAL, Economics Caitlin Chan English Philip Fiuza Music Sarah Chapman French Emma Dickinson Physics Michael Cobb Geography Phoebe Gibson Biology Rahul D’Mello German Seb Sander Mathematics Sanjiv Dutt History Tilly Alexis Latin, Theology & Latin Tamika Hewitt Philosophy Jessica Frise Mandarin Alya Kamaluddin Young Enterprise Ashley Gillan Mathematics Harriet Teasdale Extended Project Anna Halstead Music Ben Marrow Extended Project, Photography Lyndsey McJarrow History George Hatfield Religious Studies Nok Arnold Poon Geography Ralph Haville Physics Jonathan Lam Politics & Government Georgia Hunt Religious Studies Brian Oosthuizen Economics Theo Jennings Spanish Emma Borch Biology, Physics Dicken Kong Business Studies Sebastian Kuah John Propert Prize for Academic Excellence Extended Project Emily Mason Sam Flatau PhysICAL EdUCATION Sam McConnell Jonathan Lam Art Ben Mitchell Hannah Taylor Biology, Chemistry Eimear Monaghan

139 PRIZES 20

EPSOMIAN 12 PRIZES

Lower Sixth Prizes CONTINUED

Chemistry, Geography Roisin Monaghan John Propert Prize for Academic Excellence Theology & Philosophy Caspar Naylor Patrick Lewis Business Studies Frederic Orr Zoe Sciver Young Enterprise Claudia Porter Charlie Twyman Art, English Olivia Robinson Thomas Williams Critical Thinking, Politics & Government Amy Symons Theatre Studies Lara Treherne Physics Amelia Warner Computing/IT, Electronics, Mathematics Hong Yu Zhao Other Prizes Mathematics Clive Zhou Junior Ruth Pincus Art Essay Prize John Propert Prize for Academic Excellence Jae Youn Jung Harriet Bantock Senior Ruth Pincus Art Essay Prize Dicken Kong Sean McGrath Roisin Monaghan Barber’s Company Biology Prize Eimear Monaghan Juliet Ariel Paice Scholarship Upper Sixth Prizes Emma Owens Warren Pickett Award English Izi Ames Harriet Bantock Computing/IT Zedrick Cheung Claudia Porter Geography Hugo Coleman Jensen Drama Prize Physics Theo Gibson Max Austin Photography Alex Hinds Marcelle Rowe Drama Prize French oral Anissa Jaffery Bonnie Cheung Electronics Edward James Connor Findlay Mathematics Jing Hong Kua Newsom Choir Prize History Katie Lang Rachel Mewett Chemistry Patrick Lewis Headmaster’s Choir Prize Geography Rupert Moreton Camilla Green Business Studies Chanthima Neth Newsom Instrumental Prize Economics Carl Lyn Ng Clare Williams English, Theatre Studies Polly Norkett OE Lodge Citizenship Prize Design Technology Michael Rossi Clare Williams German Stefan Sander Friends of Epsom College 150th Anniversary Award French, Mathematics, Hannah Wilkinson Physics Zoe Sciver National Sporting Award Art James Scott David Boote PhysICAL EdUCATION Hayden Smith Jordan Burns History William Stodhart Rochelle Smith Economics Charmaine Tam Boys’ All-Rounder Sports Cup Politics & Government Matthew Taylor Robbie MacDonald Business Studies, Music Wenfei Teh Girls’ All-Rounder Sports Cup Spanish Damianos Tselentakis Zoe Sciver Economics (Norman Rice Prize), Alice Davidson-Richards Mathematics Charlie Twyman Brande Awards Chemistry Thomas Williams Max Dialdas Theology & Philosophy Clare Williams Katie Patel Biology Justin Wong George Lindley

140 EPSOMIAN 2011 - 2012