LIFEMICHAELMAS 2019

Hitting the right notes…

Students’ sensational performances at the House Music Competition Whitgift Racing car wins 1st place Whitgift launches its first ever History Festival Nick Cook visits for World Book Day Chelsea and U17 England World Cup winner Callum Hudson-Odoi returns An enchanting performance of the The Jungle Book and more inside … performing arts ‘The inaugural Fourth Form production was sensational’ Another Country

Julian Mitchell’s play Another film and theatre acting since truthfully that by the end of the Country was certainly a bold a very young age, took on the show the audience could not help choice for Whitgift’s Fourth role of Director. Kit commented but feel tremendous sympathy for Form production. Set in a 1930s following his directing debut, ‘It their respective predicaments; boarding school, with the has been such a pleasure to work and the other characters were so narrative addressing substantial with such talented actors and has well-drawn and their relationships topics including homophobia given me even more respect than so clear that the tension and and political reform as well as I already had for teachers and claustrophobia of the play was adolescent mental health and directors working both in school quite palpable. But perhaps the suicide, it was impressive to see and in the theatre business.” most pleasing outcome is the the cast of 14-15 year olds take justification of the faith we placed on the challenge so confidently. Director of Drama, Mr Daniel in this talented group of boys to Pirrie praised the whole company, tell such a challenging, compelling The boys mastered the fast- “The inaugural Fourth Form story with such class and clarity. paced and witty script, whilst production was sensational I could not be prouder and the balancing the sensitivities of for many reasons: Kit’s superb future is bright!” each character and representing direction was clear, sharp and the contrasting friendships, pulled focus at just the right A big thank you to all those who alliances and rivalries. Particular moments; the two leads (Jon pulled this production together credit goes to student Kit Connor Cheshire and Henry Gillard) and congratulations to the whole who, having been involved in inhabited their characters so Fourth Form team.

2 WHITGIFT LIFE WHITGIFT LIFE 3 news news Lower First Former wins University of Cambridge’s ‘Make Your Myth’ competition

The University of Cambridge in both. We all agreed that it was held the first ever ‘Make Your fantastically painted and really Myth’ competition run by their is an impressive piece.” Classics Faculty at the end of 2018. It was aimed at children Mention should also be made aged 7-13 and is a fun and of James Evans and Anish exciting way for students to Thayalan, whose creative learn more about Greek/Roman entries were shortlisted by the history and mythology through Whitgift Classics Department, art or creative writing. The as well as Rafael Cianfarani, Jimi task for the competition was to Ikumawoyi and Thomas Lloyd design a myth about Artemis, the whose outstanding work was Whitgift Racing car wins 1st place Greek goddess of hunting and entered in the written category. the moon. Since the start of the academic first F24 race, especially through into 3rd place and a strong finish giving up significant amounts of Head of Classics, Mr Miles year, a group of dedicated adverse circumstances of a red saw them overtake other cars to their own time.” The organisers from the Faculty Thompson commented, “It is students have been working hard flag delay and finished 23rd. take 1st place. of Classics at Cambridge fantastic to see such amazing ‘It is fantastic to see such to develop their Greenpower The car was then entered into Upper Sixth Form student, Jack commented, “There were 150 enthusiasm and outstanding electric car. The Whitgift Racing the F24+ race, unfortunately Deputy Head of First Form, Mr Skinner added, “Working on the wonderful entries to choose effort from Whitgift’s youngest amazing enthusiasm team travelled to Goodwood for less change-over time meant Matthew Taylor summarised, “It Greenpower car has given me from but Ehsan Saggers’ entry Classicists in the Lower First. We and outstanding effort the annual competition, which a slightly late start, with Ben was great to see all the boys’ hard further experience in engineering stood out from the rest. are thrilled that Ehsan’s work has challenges students to design Boros (Upper Sixth Form) as work and dedication to improving and has really helped me for my The judges were looking for been recognised by the University from Whitgift’s youngest and build an electric race car to driver still determined to catch the car pay off, with many of them future as a designer.” originality and artistic quality of Cambridge: he deserves to feel compete against other schools, up. However, it was strategically and his piece was marked highly extremely proud.” Classicists’ colleges and universities. decided to pull out of the race early to let the motor cool before Competing teams use the same the final F24 race. Highly commended entry in In January 2019, Croydon essays in front of an audience motor and batteries and there Council held a ceremony at the which included the Mayor of are two age levels within the The final race started with driver Holocaust essay competition Town Hall to commemorate Croydon, Councillor Hamida competition. Formula 24 (F24) Enzo Moore (First Form) who put Holocaust Memorial Day, Ali, Councillor Tony Newman is for students aged 11-16 and in the best lap time of the day, marking an international day of and Marilyn Arbisman from the Formula 24+ (F24+) for Sixth before he changed with second remembrance. Children from Croydon Synagogue. Form and university students. driver Lachlan Seymour (First local schools were invited to Form) and Hugo Stremes (Fourth enter an essay competition and Jake commented, “I really Luca Bower (First Form) did an Form) driving the final leg. The were given the theme ‘Torn from enjoyed the experience and impressive job as driver of the Whitgift car progressed its way Home’, with the winners chosen being part of a service that by the Standing Advisory Council commemorates something for Religious Education. Jake so important. I also had the Alex Ciulin wins Guildhall Lutine Prize 2019 Dennis (Second Form) entered opportunity to meet the Mayor his essay and was thrilled to be and Councillor Hamida Ali.” This competition showcases Warmest congratulations to awarded a high commendation young talent and has been Alex Ciulin for achieving first and invitation to read his essay at Whitgift students from the running since 1982. It is Junior prize and to Marian Bozhidarov the civic event. Whitgift String Quartet; Upper Guildhall’s equivalent of the for achieving second prize. Sixth Formers Kryštof Kohout senior school’s annual Gold The competition was a great The day began with a candle- (Violin), Luka Perazic (Violin), Medal competition. Having been testament to the combined lighting ceremony in the foyer of Kosta Popovic (Cello) and Fifth successful in the preliminaries, efforts of the Guildhall School Croydon Town Hall, followed by Former Uriel Vilchez Meza six students progressed to the of Music and Drama, Whitgift presentations by Riddlesdown (Viola), ended the day by playing final round, where they were and of course, all the talented Collegiate and Oasis Academy a rendition of Schindler’s List by required to perform a 20-minute young musicians who worked Coulsdon, and a moving talk John Williams. solo recital. so hard to achieve an incredible by Mrs Chantal Uwamahoro, Whitfield was delighted to (clarinet), Alex Ciulin (cello), level of musicianship. a survivor of the Rwandan With four of the six finalists watch an array of remarkable Kryštof Kohout (violin) and genocide. The essay winners currently studying at Whitgift, performances from Lower Sixth Kosta Popović (cello). were then invited to read their Director of Music, Rosanna Formers, Marian Bozhidarov

4 WHITGIFT LIFE WHITGIFT LIFE 5 news House Music Competition 2019 Whitgift students join the STEM In February 2019, the School However, it was Smith’s House best young translators in Pictures from the Second Form The aim of the project work is to welcomed back Mr Iain Carnegie who claimed victory on the night. STEM Projects in May 2019, enhance subject knowledge in as the adjudicator, a Former Mr Carnegie said that Marian Juvenes Translatores where students worked in small a fun way, as well as to develop member of Whitgift staff who Bozhidarov (Upper Sixth Form) teams to explore and present independent research skills, now works as an established film and Daniel Munks’ (Fifth Form) At the end of March 2019, two to staff and peers on a selected team working and confidence and television composer, and is clarinet and piano performance Whitgift linguists were invited to STEM topic. in presenting. currently Director of Music at of the jazz classic Misty was Europe House in Westminster to Reed’s School. The event is one of “astonishing” and “one of the attend a special event for their the few in the School’s calendar to best things I’ve ever heard”. achievements in the Juvenes be entirely organised by the boys Smith’s performance of Queen’s Translatores contest. Upper themselves. Don’t Stop Me Now was hailed Sixth Formers Joshua Nurse and as “wonderful”, featuring many Adrien Chatriot received a special Highlights of the evening included perFormers on stage. Upper mention. There were just 30 Lower Sixth Former Kryštof Sixth Form pupil Max Brown special mention winners of 317 Kohout’s passionate rendition was responsible for the genius entrants from the UK and both of Eugène Ysaÿe’s violin sonata arrangement, as well as playing of these students had translated Obsession, an arrangement of Major trombone and rapping! French to English. Lazer’s Cold Water with stunning vocals from Third Former Gibran Max Brown stated, “It was The trip was organised by a few translated German books to Ahmed and Fourth Formers Josh fantastic to claim victory, Modern Languages and Senior Joshua and Adrien at the end. Tikare and Archie Shuttleworth especially in a year where Housemaster, Mr Benjamin (Cross’s House), and Matthew the standard was so high. Mr Morris, who was contacted by a Mr Benjamin Morris commented, Willson (Lower Sixth Form) playing Carnegie’s comments were very Language Officer for the European “It was a wonderful day and I his electric guitar behind his head enlightening, it was awesome Commission. Mr Morris and the am thankful that we were given during his performance of Van to be given feedback by such pupils were given a special tour the opportunity to go. The Halen’s iconic Eruption solo as part a renowned and accomplished of the building and attended a competition may not run next of the Dodd’s House programme. musician.” presentation on translation work year but Dr Ryland is planning on within the EU by Ciara Colgan, taking it on with the backing of Staff Translator with the European Oxford University and I shall be in Commission based in Luxembourg. touch with her in the near future.” They also enjoyed a translation workshop in which the boys The Juvenes Translatores is held tackled a piece about London Cure to enable tomorrow’s adults Smoked Salmon, a UK protected to understand languages other food name product. Finally, they than their own. The School were given an excellent talk by also congratulates Lower Sixth Dr Charlotte Ryland, Lecturer Formers Ben Goldby, Gabriele of German from The Queen’s Martoglia and Jacob Murray, who College in Oxford. She spoke on entered and put huge efforts into literary translation and passed on the contest.

‘The event is one of the few in the School’s calendar to be entirely organised by the boys themselves’

6 WHITGIFT LIFE WHITGIFT LIFE 7 sport sport Rugby

Whitgift Rugby had a busy season Trips this year include the U15s all round with 28 teams, 368 (32 boys) having a pre-season matches and 556 boys enjoying training camp near Montpellier the sport and developing well. in France and the 1st XV and Key achievements include the 2nd XV team (51 boys) touring U18 team winning the Schools’ New Zealand in August. Cup and Esher President’s Cup, with special mention to Oliver Norris as the 1st XV Captain.

The U15 team made it to the Schools’ Cup semi-finals and worked hard to go on to be the SOCS London Oratory School Sevens winners. The U14 team also succeeded in winning the Surrey Schools Sevens, Queen Elizabeth’s School Barnet Sevens and the SOCS Reigate Junior Sevens. Also, the U12 achieved the title of SOCS London Oratory Sevens winners.

Whitgift is very proud to have Harry Dugmore representing England U18, as well as Harry Breeze and Ed Dunford representing Wales U18.

Football

2019 has been a successful year the school with great pride and on the football pitches, with sportsman-like spirit. team and individual awards earnt, as well as highest ever Old Whitgiftian Callum Hudson- participation numbers for Odoi made his senior debut for a sport that keeps growing England v Czech Rep, and after at Whitgift. Four pupils won an unfortunate Achilles injury international caps for their he made time to come and visit respective countries England the School in May. Since then and Wales, with five further he has made a strong recovery pupils starting the journey and the School looks forward to of entering the FA Football following his further successes. National Development programmes again with England Two Whitgift students are and Wales. Ten pupils gained representing England; Jadan County honours with Surrey and Raymond at U16 level and the teams were crowned U11 Xavier Benjamin at U17 level. and U12 Surrey Champions. Jadan played in a prestigious The U13 team was the first side tournament at St George’s Park ever to win a National double involving Brazil, France and by winning the ESFA Elite and Norway with Xavier playing for Investec ISFA titles. Across 20 the U15s in a friendly v Belgium. teams that were fielded, 363 James Sweet is representing pupils pulled on the Whitgift Wales U16 and Morgan Williams football shirt and represented is representing Wales U15.

88 WHITGIFT LIFE WHITGIFT LIFE 9 performing arts Sixth Form production of The Sneeze On the fringe of awkwardness A report by Upper Sixth Former Mile and arrived at the venue for at ease by a performance that way- slowly perfecting the art Charlie Barber from the Edinburgh our first performance at noon seemed slick and well-rehearsed of shamelessly making a fool of This year’s Sixth Form Yasmin Irving (Old Palace of played the General Brizzhalov, memorable and entertaining Fringe. on that same day. There was enough to justify a hint of pride. myself in a public space. This is a performance was one of short John Whitgift School) played the whose expression during the evening. Special thanks to Mr cabaret, stand-up, opera, and It was, however, our efforts vastly underrated skill. Our efforts stories and one-act comedy melodramatic role of Murashkna, slow motion replay of the sneeze Paul Wilson and Mr Simon A week before attending the improvisation, amongst which beyond the stage which proved were remunerated by a steady vaudevilles by Russian playwright the dame auditioning her script was highly amusing. Hudson for directing the plays, Edinburgh Fringe, the company we uncertainly trod as a rookie to be the most alien and the increase in audience numbers as Anton Chekov, adapted by who meets an unfortunate and as well as to the girls from Old was informed that the tech company, awaiting our initiation most rewarding: awakening at the week drew on, and by the Michael Frayn. Considered to shocking denouement. All the Thanks to all the staff and Palace of John Whitgift School rehearsal for our show was to into the real world of theatre; the crack of 9:30am, we went end of the run our production be amongst the greatest writers performances that followed were students who put together a and Croydon High School. take place from midnight until here, we were capable of being out into the masses to advertise of Woyzeck felt famous. Such a of short fiction in history, Anton equally impressive, especially 4:00am, and there was a great subject to the excoriations of our show. Standing on a stool, I valuable experience I hardly felt also practised as a medical doctor considering many of the Sixth sadness. It was, however, the reviewers, and on an even footing preached sections of my part in I deserved from my old school; throughout most of his literary Form actors had never previously Fringe’s spirit of hotchpotch- with the rest of the performing the play (a seedy showman), and I shall nevertheless cherish the career. taken on an acting role. entertainment which eventually public. Alarmingly, this felt like made attempts to extemporise memory, and will take the first enlivened every wearied soul a premature introduction to garbled cockney patter at any opportunity to return to the English and Drama Teacher, The play that hands itself to as we diffused along the Royal adulthood. We were soon put unfortunates who came my Fringe in the future. Mr Paul Wilson commented, the title, The Sneeze was a “Comedy and tragedy both arise very entertaining story of a out of confusion – it is how this Government Clerk, who on a confusion resolves itself that night out with his wife, accidently determines whether we laugh sneezes on a General sitting or weep.” directly in front of him. Upper Sixth Former Archie Day who The production opened with plays Chervyakov (the sneezer), Whitgift Theatre Company Drama, where Upper Sixth did an excellent job at depicting Former Jude Willoughby played the horror that plagues him the role of Pavel, a sarcastic and throughout, as well as Upper much too busy script writer, and Sixth Former Jacob Rose who Woyzeckby Georg Büchner

10 WHITGIFT LIFE WHITGIFT LIFE 11 news

One of the most successful years A Level students celebrated Fifth Formers followed up with Whitonomics praised for new as The Economist, we worked to This is a great achievement outstanding achievements with a superb set of grades at GCSE bring a modern twist to the whole for the entire team, including for results in the School’s history 93% of all grades awarded at and IGCSE. 82% of all grades design at Shine Media Awards magazine.” Saam Fakhim (Chief of Design), A*- B (94% A*- B when combined achieved level 7/8/9 (A*-A) and Alex Nam (Illustrator) and all with the IB results). A total of almost a third of grades were Creating a completely student- The students dedicated hours the writers that contributed. 49 pupils gained straight A* and awarded the highest level of 9. A led magazine is no easy feat, but after school and during the We hope they inspire the next A grades (or Pre-U equivalent). total of 27 pupils achieved eight it was nevertheless a task taken half-term to perfect the design, Whitonomics production team on IB students achieved an average or more grade 9s in their subjects on by team of Sixth Formers from drawing intricate illustrations, to great things. total of 39 points. This is 9 points and an impressive six boys the beginning of the academic creating a political cartoon as above the global average and achieved 9s in all their entries – year. With the guidance of a cover page and more. The places Whitgift as the top boys something achieved by very few Economics & Business Studies team also spent time editing school for IB in the UK. pupils nationally. Teacher, Mr Mohammed Al-Hasso, the articles, ensuring each one the students planned out the went through multiple versions Headmaster, Mr Chris Ramsey Whitgift is delighted to also entire process; discussing article of editing in order to gather stated, “I’m delighted that the confirm 14 students will be titles, the process of editing, the different opinions and feedback. results reflect their dedication attending Oxford and Cambridge magazine’s theme and design. and hard work as well as the to read a variety of subjects, and Aware that the previous issue of This undoubtedly paid off, excellent support and guidance 81% of students achieved their Whitonomics had won an award for with the team being highly from tutors and support staff. first-choice destination. ‘Exceptional Promise’, they were commended for ‘Best Cover’ at I hope their achievements will determined to follow this success. the Shine Media Awards in July

A Level GCSE truly inspire next year’s Sixth The School wishes all the and Julian Cheng winning the Oxbridge Formers and show them what students the best of luck as they Editor-in-Chief, Julian Cheng award for ‘Best Cartoon’. The 14 94% 82% is possible when they make the continue to work towards their summarised, “One of the biggest judges praised the ‘re-vamped’ A*–B 7/8/9 most of opportunities.” future careers and aspirations. changes we made to the magazine Whitonomics as one of a ‘bold was its design. Taking inspiration and professional design’ which from professional magazines such ‘would jump out on a news-stand’. Up for debate The debating club have been LGBT History Month very busy this year. Highlights language of Britain’s LGBT include taking three teams to the community”, and Mr Bregman School of Oriental and African delivered an introduction to Studies (SOAS) Schools Debating transgender issues. An unsung Competition in January 2019, Old Whitgiftian, Roberta Cowell, where Issac Fung (Sixth Form) was not only a World War II ranked 17th individually of fighter pilot and racing car driver the 103 speakers present, and but also the first woman to go together with David Lawrence through gender reassignment (Fifth Form) that team ranked Back in February 2019, LGBT surgery in the UK! In form periods 11th of 52. History Month saw a range of across the School, boys learned assemblies, talks and events about LGBT history and discussed London School of Economics & celebrating queer history and discrimination, organised by Ms Political Sciences (LSE) Juniors culture, and the Whitgift Queer Curtis-Rouse, Head of PSHEE & also took place in January; with Society had its first meeting. Its Critical Reflection. Whitgift entering five teams aim is to promote an inclusive including eight individuals from in the UK, took place at the feminist movement should reject The team now have their own and accepting environment and As well as rainbow flags up the Second and Third Form who prestigious Oxford Union in the glorification of motherhood’, Whitgift Debating varsity-style to provide a space for students to in every part of the School, were complete beginners at March. Two Whitgift teams Issac Fung and Alex Carpenter jacket, which Upper Sixth Form support each other and discuss in the Raeburn Library Head debating. They did very well with competed with 114 of the best (both Upper Sixth Form pupils) student Freddie Rawlins wore LGBTQ issues. Librarian Mrs Bauer set up a Third Form student Matthew from across the UK, Ireland, ranked 16th of all teams present. to great acclaim at the Oxford display of books and a timeline theme for this year’s parade was group consisting of nine Sixth Dokoupil (who ranked 3rd novice Canada and elsewhere. After four David Lawrence and Matthew regional and KCL competitions. A series of talks also took place of LGBTQ history, including a #PrideJubilee, commemorating Formers and two members of speaker of the 45 present) and preliminary rounds (all debated Dokoupil, who had qualified over the month, all covering table celebrating iconic poet, the fiftieth anniversary of the staff, was proud to attend for Conrad Wojcik (Second Form) only with only 15 minutes preparation for Finals Day despite being LGBTQ themes: Mr Smith, Head playwright and LGBTQ hero Stonewall uprising in New York the first time. Many recognised narrowly missing the novice final. time) on topics ranging from ‘This only in Fifth and Third Forms of History & Politics, gave a Oscar Wilde. which is recognised as the start the School name and told us how House would legalise the sale respectively, ranked 84th, with lecture about the role of the US of the modern LGBTQ rights excited they were that a school The Oxford School Finals Day, and purchase of human organs’ Matthew the 22nd best novice Supreme Court in shaping US Whitgift at Pride in London movement. was marching, and the group also the biggest debating competition to ‘This House believes that the speaker individually. society and values, Mr Hunt, The Whitgift Queer Society had a fantastic reception from Head of Languages, presented attended the annual Pride in With over 30,000 participants attendees representing Croydon a seminar on Polari, the “secret London parade in July 2019. The in the parade, Whitgift, with a PrideFest.

12 WHITGIFT LIFE WHITGIFT LIFE 13 performing arts The Jungle Book

Whitgift’s Performing Arts Centre was Effective make-up enhanced the School outreach programme and transformed into an enchanted jungle characterisation, but it was the in conjunction with our local talent of Whitgift’s youngest primary schools which was a clearing, with an auditorium in the actors at embodying their animal wonderful afternoon and it was round for the Lower First and First Form personas that truly captured the a pleasure to see so many older spirit of each creature and made boys in the audience, supporting production during Lent Term. for impressive and enjoyable their fellow students. viewing. The original music composed by Graduate Music A big thank you to the entire cast Assistant Mr Liam Connery and and crew who all did a wonderful Director of Music Ms Rosanna job, including the boys who Whitfield was also spot on. assisted behind the scenes and backstage. The Directorial and Director of Drama, Mr Daniel Production Team of Mr Daniel Pirrie commended the young Pirrie, Mrs Faye Carter and Miss cast, “many for whom this was Nicole Sheffel put in a huge their first experience on a stage. amount of hard work as did Mr The progress each boy has made Peter Crook’s stage team. We over the months of rehearsals is eagerly await next year’s First extraordinary and to know this Form play and hope many of is the first of hopefully many the boys will be encouraged to more productions at Whitgift is participate in further Whitgift thrilling.” drama events.

This entertaining and high- energy production was testament to the hard work of the whole company, whose enthusiasm ‘A special matinee show was hosted and enjoyment clearly rubbed off on the audience. A special as part of the Whitgift’s Primary matinee show was hosted as part of the Whitgift’s Primary School outreach programme’

14 WHITGIFT LIFE WHITGIFT LIFE 15 sport news Whitgift CCF Annual General Inspection

On Friday 26 April the Combined Major Naveen Dhar (Lower Cadet Force (CCF) held the Sixth Form). Brigadier Swift Whitgift Annual General praised their performance and Inspection and were very pleased commented that he thought to welcome back Old Whitgiftian, it was even better than when Brigadier Jon Swift OBE, as he had commanded the Guard the Inspecting Officer. Pupils of Honour 28 years ago! from Whitgift and two partner Despite the intermittent rain, schools, St. Andrew’s CE School spirits remained high and he and Thomas More Catholic commended the cadets for their School, took part in a wide very high standards and obvious range of activities from climbing enthusiasm. to kayaking in the swimming pool, and survival tasks such as The Inspection was rounded building shelters and cooking. off by the exciting and much In his address to the cadets, staff, the day, which was testament to They were also involved in anticipated arrival of the parents and OWs, Brigadier Swift their loyalty to the School and military activities such as Wings RAF Parachute Display spoke highly of the School and their CCF experiences. camouflage, concealment and Team, who jumped into the the CCF and he felt it encouraged flying on the flight simulator. grounds despite the low cloud leadership, resilience, and fun, Head of History and Politics, Mr and increasing winds. The older rating the CCF as outstanding. Smith summarised, “An excellent The formal Inspection of the boys then put on a very lively At dinner in the evening, day for the boys and CCF adults, Guard of Honour was led by and spirited Platoon Attack presentations of tankards were it was a pleasure to host Brigadier Junior Under Officer, Andrew Demonstration and the Corps made to the senior boys. It was Swift and so many other Old Bonner (Upper Sixth Form) and of Drums performed the noted over 30 Old Whitgiftians Whitgiftians and very pleasing to the Corps of Drums, under Drum Beating Retreat. had been involved in helping on be rated as an outstanding CCF.”

Cricket

OWs and For the U14s, Arjun Gill and Highlights from Old Whitgiftians: • has been a regular playing together in the Test Vansh Jani were key players. • Rory Burns scored his maiden in the Sussex Team in every form Series v Australia and Ireland, Selection for the Scotland U15 century for England in an Ashes of the game while still regularly along with the New Zealand and team for Seth McDowall shows test and continues to cement showing himself to be one of the Australian World Cup he has a bright future ahead. his opening spot in the team. top T20 Blast batsmen. Teams training on Northfield • Jason Roy became a World Cup • A recent move to Warwickshire prior to The Cricket World Cup The U13s highlight of the season winner and broke into the Test has allowed Michael Burgess to were two of the highlights of was Rahul Tangirala’s 128 team. keep on a regular basis. this summer. Here at the School, vs Cranmore while Jens Wagstaff • , and National Finals have been and Shaheer Alam won the • Dominic Sibley continues to Freddie van den Bergh all reached alongside international cricket prizes. score runs at Warwickshire continue to feature at Surrey representation and County and is currently in line to be CCC. Cup wins! U12s had an excellent unbeaten selected in the Test side. season; George Grisdale scored In the T20 campaign, the 1st a maiden century to get the XI were exceptionally led by team through to the semi-final Will Heaver with Nyeem Young of the Surrey Cup (208 for 3) and Nico Reifer displaying and Captain, Jack Mortlock, international quality for their then lead from the front to home nation Barbados. achieve a win in the final against Trinity. Batting by Tom Mead, The U15As had some excellent Alex Chambers, Ollie Hunt and performances from the whole Shiv Prashad and bowling from squad; most notably Tim Lloyd Hamish Walters and Zak Mirza and Moiz Rana. At the National were all highly noteworthy. The T20 Finals the team won the stand-out player of the season semi-final by four but with his consistent spin and lost the final by just ten runs to a volume of wickets, was strong Sedbergh side. Zak Dossa.

16 WHITGIFT LIFE WHITGIFT LIFE 17 performing arts performing arts

‘An energetic and Around ‘Big School’ in 80 Days humorous cast played out their Big School turned into a dynamic they overcome kidnappings, The performance Director, and and fast-moving world stage to natural disasters, Sioux attacks Teacher of Drama, Mr Simon multiple characters become the backdrop for Around and even dodge the persistent Hudson enthused about the the World in 80 Days by Jules Inspector Fix of Scotland Yard, cast, “The great thing about with great charm’ Verne, this year’s Junior School who is convinced that Fogg has directing these talented young performance. robbed the Bank of England, to actors is that they have worked finally win the extraordinary tirelessly and imaginatively on The story begins in London wager (thanks to the duo eccentric characters, physical where Phileas Fogg is revealed as inadvertently ‘gaining’ a day set pieces, complex transitions a man of great order and extreme by travelling eastwards around and pacey dialogue; all with utter discipline. At his gentlemen’s the globe). professionalism.” club he accepts a wager to travel around the world in 80 days An energetic and humorous Congratulations to all who and, along with his manservant, cast played out their multiple were involved for another great Passepartout he sets out on his characters with great charm, production, supported by a adventure filled journey. keeping the audience amused strong behind the scenes crew and on the edge of their seats for of students alongside the Travelling by train, steamship, three nights in June. Whitgift team. sailing boat and even elephant,

18 WHITGIFT LIFE WHITGIFT LIFE 19 performing arts sport

Whitgift International Music Competition 2019

The Whitgift International Music The prizegiving and gala concert Competition (WIMC) 2019 took featured performances from a place during the Easter holidays selection of this year’s WIMC from Sunday 7 to Thursday 11 competitors and a special guest April. A vast array of international performance by Brian Wong (Third students from countries including Form), playing the harmonica. Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, ‘The competition Hong Kong and the UK, resulted in Jessica Duchen, Music Journalist a wonderful sense of community and WIMC Adjudicator expands everybody’s within the boarding house and commented, “The results are not music department. only transformative for those world view and cultural who win but enhance the lives of understanding’ The competition rounds took place the other students who have the over three days. During the semi- chance to collaborate with their final, each competitor performed peers. It brings music into lives a programme of three contrasting that might otherwise miss that pieces lasting 20 minutes each, chance and expands everybody’s and those who made it through to world view and cultural the final had 10 minutes to play understanding.” one movement of a concerto. The rounds took place in front of a Thank you to all the competitors, panel of adjudicators and there staff and adjudicators for was a vast array of instruments, contributing to another successful with violinists as well as a range WIMC and to Upper Sixth Former of woodwind and brass players Matthew Munks and Third Former competing. Brian Wong for assisting as Whitgift Young Ambassadors.

20 WHITGIFT LIFE WHITGIFTWHITGIFT LIFE LIFE21 21 performing arts news Whitgift launches its History Festival

For two days in June 2019, the Performing Arts Centre was transformed into the first ever Whitgift History Festival. The School was very pleased to welcome both students and parents, as well as visitors from local schools, Old Whitgiftians and members of the general public.

The festival hosted a series of fascinating talks, including one from Professor David Olusoga on Forgotten Soldiers of Empire, highlighting the often- overlooked contribution of troops from the British Empire in World War One. This talk nicely married with a talk on Fighting the People’s War by Dr Jonathan Fennell, who debunked the popular narrative that everyone was eager to fight in World War Two and knew what they were fighting for.

The most emotional talk was delivered by Harry Olner, fortune to survive Plaszow, Britain. Incredibly, he said that and old getting involved in Whitgift Chamber Orchestra concerto a Holocaust Survivor, who Buchenwald and Theresienstadt he did not hate the Germans and asking questions of the visiting passionately described his concentration camps and as he indeed that everyone must avoid academics and pleasing to see At the beginning of March 2019, Equally impressive was the three said, “I have been playing the fantastic achievement for the experience of Nazi antisemitism. was dying from typhus, how hate, as that is what corrupts over 800 people attend with the Whitgift Chamber Orchestra movements from Double Cello violin for just over a year and members of the WCO, the depth He explained his good he was rescued and arrive in society. In addition, there was such positive feedback.” (WCO) performed pieces from Concerto in G Minor by Vivaldi with can now fully appreciate how of musical understanding needed a very thought-provoking Mendelssohn, Strauss, Vivaldi solos performed by Upper Sixth exceptionally difficult it is to is enormous and everyone who presentation by Dr Sam Willis and Paganini culminating in Formers, Alex Ciulin and Kosta sustain the high notes performed took part rose to the occasion to which encouraged everyone Beethoven’s Eroica Symphony. Popovic. It was evident the hours by Mendelsohn.” a very enthusiastic audience.” to think about History in a of practice paid off when it came different way. Dr James Kitchen, The first movement from the to learning and perfecting it. Director of Orchestral Music an Old Whitgiftian, and Dr Horn Concerto No.1, Op.11 by and conductor of the event, Chris Mann, both from the War Strauss was an enjoyable piece, The concert had incredible Mr Philip Winter commented, Studies Department of the Royal specifically when soloist, Lower performances by the soloists and “To play Beethoven’s Eroica Military Academy Sandhurst Sixth Form student Adam Field Whitgift Chamber Orchestra. Symphony is a challenge for a gave everyone detailed insights demonstrated velocity and skill. Second Form pupil, Ben Naylor professional orchestra and a into the Post World War One settlement in the Middle East and the experience of one British Army Officer from the Western Front to the Russian Civil War.

Head of History and Politics, Mr Keith Smith summarised, “The History Festival was designed to look at less common historical themes and to encourage people to both think about and enjoy History for its own sake. It was great to see young

22 WHITGIFT LIFE WHITGIFTWHITGIFT LIFE LIFE23 23 sport Basketball Cycling

For the first time ever, Whitgift’s Lower Sixth Former and basketball team made it to mountain bike enthusiast, Luc final in the U19 Men National Roux, secured an impressive 1st Schools Competition. The match place in The Bull Track BR4R was played at the National Downhill Series (South East) Basketball Performance Centre in twice. Once was as fastest over Manchester where Myerscough all categories and then as 4th College, a renowned basketball fastest over all categories. He academy, proved to be too also came 2nd in the Root 1 strong. Nonetheless, an incredible Racing Tidworth (South West). and historic achievement for Whitgift. The 1st team also came Luc has placed 18th and 19th second in both the LISBA League place in nationals so far this and Cup competition. year, however he has not raced over the summer due to an Whitgift’s U15s exceeded all injury. The School wishes him a expectations and were crowned speedy recovery, ready for the LISBA League champions, as September nationals in Scotland. well as LISBA Cup winners after defeating City of London School for boys in both finals. Swimming Team Captain and Fourth Former, Myles Alcindor, was Over 100 swimmers have competed and won the London selected for England’s U15 participated in competitions this Schools Cup, which was another team in June 2019. He already year, with many squads working great occasion. represented his country in hard and achieving fantastic international tournaments in results. In November 2018, the There has been great individual Paris and Copenhagen. U13 relay team came 3rd in the success this year: Alex Corver National Medley Relay at the (First Form) breaking the London Aquatics Centre. They 100m Butterfly (SC) record went on to win the ‘Warwick and becoming the overall Kent Open’ and to claim several County Swimming Champion; trophies at the Croydon Schools’ Theo Thompson qualifying for event. Other highlights included a the English and British Nationals; group of students travelling to the Christopher Finch qualifying for Olympic Pool for the prestigious Nationals and Artyom Boyarov Bath Cup event in March 2019. (Third Form) taking 11 seconds off They included Lower Sixth Form his 100m freestyle pb in one year. student and Captain Tanglin Ireland, Rowan Fuss (Fourth This year the School also Water Polo Form), Christopher Finch (Fourth introduced the Whitgift The most notable achievement The School was also delighted Form), Stanley Jones (Lower Sixth Swimming Club Championships, Water Polo Squads have had a over the past year was the Under for Toby Roberts (Fifth Form) Form), Theo Thompson (Fourth where the students compete fantastic year, with the U18s 13s who came 2nd in Nationals representing England in the Form). They swam incredibly against each other across nine placing 2nd in the London after losing out on 1st place to U17 LEN European Aquatics, well and just narrowly missed events to find the Whitgift League after drawing narrowly Trinity. Huge congratulations to and Max Hubrich (Fourth Form) out on the final. Finally, the team Swimming Champions. with Alleyns. Some of the boys the boys who played superbly being selected to train with the who played in the U18s then on the day including Second England National Academy. took this drive to the next Formers Rey Abdulhafiz, Will level by getting through to the Cleverly, Charlie Cotgrove, Dylan ESSA National finals, in which Helmer, Robert Kubasiewicz, Whitgift came 5th overall. The Nico Lane, Ben Townrow, Jamie U16 squad then managed to win Miller, Thomas Norrey and 4 consecutive matches, going on Fernando Watt-Rodriguez, and to win the London League. First Formers Rudy Kool andJoe Mumford.

24 WHITGIFT LIFE WHITGIFT LIFE 25 news Ski Season Smith’s – 2019 House Cup Winners

Second Former, Augustin Augustin took part in over 15 This year, the House Smith’s has proudly taken the Bozzetto, came 24th competitions this winter as part Competition saw students House Cup from last year’s International U14 and 8th of the French Circuit. The Coq representing their Houses winners, Andrew’s, with new British U14 in the Lowland d’Or (in L’Alpes d’Huez) is the (Andrew’s, Brodie’s, Cross’s, house captain Upper Sixth Ski Championships, with 308 highest and ultimate competing Dodd’s, Ellis’s, Mason’s, Smith’s Former Max Brown, who participants. Five countries level in France consisting of and Tate’s) in events that tested proudly collected the Cup at were represented and for each 1500 children U12 and U14. In every imaginable set of skills. the Celebration of Whitgift Life category only the top 15 skiers his category there were over in July. of each country attended. 450 boys U14 and after three The annual event aims to find days of races, he was one of only the most talented Whitgift House Co-ordinator, Mr Augustin also took part in the 150 who went to the finales. He House and adopts a points Benjamin Morris, commented, BASS (British Alpine Seeding finished in the top 30 from 2006 scheme, awarding eight points “Smith’s has led all the way and System) races in May which and then on the last day he came to the winners of an event, seven dominated the competition compromises of three indoor ski in the top 40 of all U14. for second, etc. No points are from start to finish. They have races in Landgraaf (Netherland), offered to Houses who do not shown an incredible amount of acting as a qualifying round The School wishes Augustin present a team. A game-changing dedication towards ensuring the for April 2020 National British further success and looks ten points is offered to the cup is yellow once again.” Championships in Tignes. He forward to following his first winners of the events such as took two 2nd placings and race of the season where he will House Music and House Drama. one, 3rd, allowing him to be competing in the International qualify for the National British Lowland Championships in Championships. Landgraaf towards the end of September 2019.

New musical instrument designed as part of A Level DT

Supporting Charities at Whitgift Lower Sixth Form student symmetrical) and this brought Saam Fakhim collaborated with forward the idea of bringing an Supporting local and international The work of charities at good friend and composer, unused set of antlers and upcycling charities is an important part Whitgift is co-ordinated by the Amir Konjani, to be the client it into the heart of the project. of outreach work at Whitgift. It Charities Committee, chaired by for his Design, Technology and helps to raise awareness amongst School Captain, Zain Peerbhoy. Engineering A Level project. The Saam Fakhim commented, “My both students and staff, and the Raising funds involves students composer of Oscar winning movie client Amir has been one of my (www.shelterbox. running events, liaising with funds raised assist some of the ShelterBox The Silent Child has worked with primary sources of inspiration most vulnerable people in society. org) provides emergency shelter and promoting charities. Last many renowned conductors and to follow a route in Industrial or Nearly £7000 was raised this and other essential items for academic year, several successful has been commissioned by the Product Design and as someone year for the School’s three chosen families around the world, who events were accomplished in London Symphony Orchestra, with a keen interest in art, this charities; Bees for Development, have been robbed of their homes partnership with members of BBC News, British Museum and project allows an interesting ShelterBox and a local charity by natural disaster or conflict. the Parents’ Association. many others. combination of design, art and called Canine Partners. music to create something unique Canine Partners (www. Chaplain and Charities Co- The project brief was to create and original.” caninepartners.org.uk) is a ordinator, Rev Alan Bayes an instrument that could be registered charity that partners commented, “During the integrated into an orchestra The project was titled ‘Sisar’ specially trained assistance dogs Michaelmas term please look to make composition pieces – a Persian based name which with people who have physical out for several fund-raising more innovative. Since most cannot be directly translated, disabilities, providing greater efforts including a Sixth Form orchestral instruments have but can be approximated to ‘30 independence by offering Charity Concert, First Form All the charities supported by remained unchanged for decades, heads’ in English. The musical Bees for Development (www. security, companionship, and cake sale and the popular First the School are chosen by the this allowed him to devise an instrument plays like a harp but beesfordevelopment.org) works practical help with everyday Form disco run in conjunction Charities Committee and are interactive music sculpture to with a totally original sound mainly in Ethiopia to provide household tasks. with Old Palace of John Whitgift based on recommendations explore hypermodernity within stage. Congratulations to Saam a regular income to thousands and Croydon High. Closer to received from pupils and staff. the design. The shapes used Fakhim for his innovative design of remote families, by giving Christmas, presents will be The School would like to thank were irregular contours instead and we hope this project serves them new skills in producing collected for a local charity, everyone for their continued of geometrically mirrored shapes as a thought-provoking and honey and beeswax through Evolve Housing that provides support, time and generosity for found in nearly all instruments interesting piece of work to beekeeping. seasonal gifts for the homeless.” the Whitgift charities. (where the instrument is everyone who sees it.

26 WHITGIFT LIFE WHITGIFT LIFE 27 trips Highlights from this year’s academic, cultural and sporting trips.

1. CCF Royal Naval trip 7. Third Form – Upper Sixth Form Desert Springs Golf 2. Chiddingstone Castle Tour 3. Rugby U15 Training Camp 8. Sixth Form trip to Madrid Quissac, Montpellier, France 9. South Bank Art trip 4. Junior Cricket tour to Barbados 10. U13 Hockey tour to Barcelona 5. Second Form pupils exchange trip to Zaragoza, Spain

6. Senior Rugby Tour to New Zealand 1 6

2

3 4 7 8

7 9

5 10

28 WHITGIFT LIFE WHITGIFT LIFE 2929 sport visitors

1 2

Hockey

The Indoor Hockey season boys booked a place in the final marked the start of a busy vs Repton School with the boys year for both disciplines of claiming the win. The U18s also the sport. The School’s teams made it to the final where they always embark on a tough fought hard against a very good fixture card, playing with some performance from Altrincham of the best schools in the Grammar School. After a tense 3 4 country. The U14s defended penalty shootout, the team their divisional title from last was proclaimed champions of year, unbeaten throughout the England at U18 and U16 Level tournament and cementing and Whitgift became the only 1. Nick Cook visits Whitgift for World Book Day themselves as a strong force in school to ever accomplish this schoolboy hockey. The U16s did feat on three different occasions. honor list is very impressive: especially England; OWs Rhys 2. OW, Sir Peter Michael, visited Whitgift as part of the tremendously well by qualifying U18 Silver Medalist, U15 Silver Smith, Luke Taylor, Zach Wallace Academic Enrichment Programme unbeaten through the divisional There were high hopes for the Medalist, U14 Bronze Medalist, and Jack Waller playing for Great 3. OW, Callum Hudson-Odoi returns to Whitgift finals and earning a place in the National Outdoor Competition, U13 Independent Schools Britain. OWs Adam Buckle, Noah 5 National finals. The seniors also with last year’s successes of Champions and Bronze Medalists Darlington and Max Denniff are 4. OW, Lord Justice Keith John Lindblom spoke to students performed brilliantly to book a three national titles being hard in the England In2Hockey playing for Great Britain U21s. in March place in the National final. Both to replicate. After a great season National Championships. Upper Sixth Former pupil Josh 5. OW, Richard Thorpe, gave a motivating talk to Whitgift’s teams went to the National with many boys participating Gravestock currently plays for First Form pupils finals with high hopes and after and having the opportunity to Whitgift is also very proud of Great Britain U21s and a further an outstanding second half represent across all levels and the number of boys that have six current pupils are playing for performance from the U16s, the in all competitions, the School gone to represent Surrey and England U18s and U16s.

30 WHITGIFT LIFE WHITGIFT LIFE 31 diary

FORTHCOMING EVENTS LONDON MYRIAD ENSEMBLE: ROALD DAHL Monday 30 September 7.00pm, Concert Hall Tickets: £5, FREE admission for Whitgift students (by reserving on WisePay only)

WSPA QUIZ NIGHT Friday 4 October 7.00pm, Big School Tickets: £16

HOUSE DRAMA Friday 11 October 6.30pm, Performing Arts Centre FREE admission (by reserving on WisePay only)

THREE SCHOOLS’ CONCERT Wednesday 16 October 7.00pm, Fairfield Halls, Croydon Tickets: Reserve via Fairfield Halls box office (see events page on Whitgift website for more details)

ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT Vicky Featherstone (Artistic Director, Royal Court Theatre) Friday 18 October 4.00-5.00pm, Concert Hall

CHORISTERS AT THE RITZ Saturday 30 November 3.30pm and 5.30pm, The Ritz, London Tickets: Bookings via The Ritz (see events page on Whitgift website for more details)

CHRISTMAS CONCERT AT ST GEORGE’S, HANOVER SQUARE Friday 6 December 6.30pm, St George’s, Hanover Square

HAIRSPRAY Wednesday 4, Thursday 5 and Saturday 7 December 7.30pm, Big School Tickets: £8, Concessions* £4 (by reserving on Wisepay only)

CHARITY CONCERT Tuesday 10 December Wednesday 4, Thursday 5, Saturday 7 December 2019 7.00pm, Big School Tickets: £6 (tickets will be available on the door, 7.30pm, Big School cash payments only please)

Tickets: £8, Concessions £4 CAROL SERVICE Thursday 12 December 7.30pm, Croydon Minster For more details and information on how to book, please visit FREE admission (by reserving on WisePay only) www.whitgift.co.uk/events

BOOKING INFORMATION Please visit www.whitgift.co.uk/events for all our events and information on how to book.

*Concessions: Children 16 and under, Over 60s, Students (17–25 in full-time education) Photography Front cover: House Music Competition, DFPhotography Inside: DFphotography, Sports Action Photo, Daniel Fearon, Getty Images

Find us on WHITGIFT Facebook “f” Logo CMYK / .ai Facebook “f” Logo CMYK / .ai Haling Park Telephone: +44 (0)20 8688 9222 Twitter: @WhitgiftSchool1 Twitter: @WhitgiftSport South Croydon Email: [email protected] Facebook: Whitgift School, CR2 6YT South Croydon United Kingdom www.whitgift.co.uk YouTube: Whitgift School

32 WHITGIFT LIFE