Winter 2020 Issue 49

The magazine for the Old Vigornians of The King’s School, Worcester

Connect 49 I 1 Contents

2 A Letter from the 15 OV Weddings Acting Headmaster 17 Archives 3 OV Visits 21 Features on Teachers 8 Barnabas 22 Where are they now? 9 Fastnet Race 24 Foundation Development 11 King’s Today and Alumni Relations 13 OV Filmstars 26 A Picture Paints a Thousand Words 14 Remembrance Day

A Letter from the Headmaster

online teaching platform that means no Cumming QC back for Barnabas Day, and one ever misses lessons due to either illness, also meeting other OVs during the course isolation, or snow days. We have also utilised of the term, especially the great Nicholas some graduate OVs who have overseen Cleobury, and Rupert Monkhouse, who now lessons in School when staff have needed practices as a dentist here in Worcester. to isolate, and their support, experience and guidance to pupils has been invaluable. As we look ahead to 2021 we can see a vaccine on the horizon, a new development A frustration throughout the term has been plan in consultation for the Foundation, that we have not witnessed any competitive a new Head at Hawford, Jennie Phillips, sports fixtures, as I resolutely wanted to see ready to take over from Jim Turner, and the King’s beat RGS in every field, especially at prospect of the Kings Foundation returning the Modus Cup which this year has had to to normal. Frankly, I cannot wait to see the be postponed. However, COVID has not three schools in regular operation! dampened our sporting enthusiasm, and I am delighted to welcome you to this through the first term of the 2020 – 2021 Any OV who finds him or herself near to edition of Connect Magazine. session we have managed to spend nine King’s is always very welcome to pop in to Saturdays on Chapter Meadows playing say hello. I’d very much like to meet as many Arriving in September 2020 as the new cricket, netball, rugby and football, with OVs as possible, sharing memories and we Headmaster was an interesting experience, hockey also taking place and a plethora of can give you a tour of your old school. And having to navigate the School through other sports. I would encourage you all to come to as COVID and deal with the issues hanging over many events as possible when the post- from the exam challenges of the summer. There have been a number of highlights vaccine nirvana arrives. We have much to However, from my arrival I was bowled over this term for me. Speaking for the first time talk about and much to celebrate. by the spirit, warmth and love that King’s in College Hall to the School exuded, and since then I haven’t been let was incredibly moving, and down! My two children, Humph and Persie, standing next to the board attend St Alban’s, and across the Foundation listing the Headmasters they – as well as my wife, Jess and I – have of King’s from 1541 was a been given a wonderful welcome into the humbling experience. In family that is the King’s community. addition, Remembrance Day was especially memorable The School is in fine shape, and despite – with a poignant address all the challenges, morale amongst the delivered remotely by Major staff and pupils is excellent. Much of James Scott - as was the Carol this is because of the can-do attitude of Service that we recorded the pupils and staff; we have learnt new for the end of term. This can methods of teaching and learning, and due be found on the School’s to some excellent leadership by the two Facebook page, and I would Junior School Heads and my Deputy Head encourage you to watch it. I New Hawford Head - Jennie Phillips and family Academic, Katie Beever, we have a hybrid- enjoyed welcoming Edward

2 I Connect 49 OV Visits

OV Dentist returns with teeth top tips OV Rupert Monkhouse (Ch 01-12) is a In the Autumn Term, we were as delighted After King’s, Rupert studied Dentistry at wonderful supporter of King’s and has been as ever to see Rupert in School and we took King’s College London and he is now into School on a number of occasions, either the opportunity to introduce him to King’s working as a dentist at two private practices: talking to the youngsters at St Alban’s about new Headmaster, Gareth Doodes. Gareth one in Reading and one in Worcester. Rupert looking after their teeth or taking part in was interested to hear about Rupert’s explained to Gareth how complicated life careers discussions with some of the older experience of King’s, which he had attended has become operating as a dentist under pupils at King’s Senior. through St Alban’s until he left at sixth form COVID and how he needs specific PPE in 2012. equipment to ensure both his safety as well as that of his patients.

After his meeting with the Headmaster, Rupert then went across to St Alban’s where he talked to the pupils in Year 3 about teeth as part of their topic. They talked about the different types of teeth and what they are used for, the properties of teeth and discussed how to look after their teeth. They A Letter from the Headmaster also talked about what foods were good or bad for their teeth. Rupert loves coming back to School and is pleased to be in a position where he can give something back, which is what King’s family is all about.

Art Department welcomes back OVs

In the Autumn Term, the Art department In other OV news, Lily Stringer (Br 13- was pleased to welcome back a number of 20)’s sculpture, ‘Wrapped’, is currently on OVs. display at the Royal Academy in the Young Artists’ Summer Show. The sculpture was Lockdown prevented the annual end of year part of her Lower Sixth artwork in which she Upper Sixth exhibition in the summer term, explored how objects are altered when they but we have been able to display some of are repaired, wrapped and tied, and was one the work by last year’s leavers in the Sir Terry of the few pieces chosen from over 17,700 entries. Frost Gallery in the art department. Izzy Jamous Alex Ward (Cl 13-20), Ollie Berlet (W 13-20) and Ellen Copeman (Cr 13- 20) all came in to view their own personal exhibitions and, although it wasn’t the usual full-scale exhibition, their work still looked very impressive and reflects the maturity and ambition with which they approached their personal projects.

OV Izzy Jamous (Br 06-13) has also been in the department, helping out with Art lessons. After completing a degree Ellen Copeman Alex Ward in Business, Marketing and Branding at Copenhagen University, Izzy worked as a Publishing Manager for Raconteur, working exclusively for The Times newspaper in London.

She is now exploring a change of career and wants to move into teaching, so some work experience in the department has given her a useful insight into the profession and has also been much appreciated by the Art staff.

Lily Stringer’s art work Ollie Berlet

Connect 49 I 3 OV Engineers attend virtual Careers Evening

Something we are very grateful to our OV Our thanks go to OVs Chris Crabtree community for is the advice and support (W 03-05), Ben Alexander (Ch 06- they regularly give to our current pupils. 13) and Jon Feldman (Ch 96-05) and also in November, Helen Airdrie, Head of to Adam Jones from Costain for sharing Careers arranged an evening session on their insight and expertise. Engineering is Engineering. Over 25 students from the a very varied field which can lead to many Upper Remove to the Lower Sixth joined different paths via both university and online to hear four guests, including three apprentice routes, and there is flexibility to OVs, speak about their experiences within move between different industries within the fields of Mechanical, Robotic, Civil, the sector. The audience was offered good Aerospace and Chemical Engineering in advice including, “Work is about the skills both technical, management and business which you bring to the role, not just about Ben Alexander development roles. knowledge”.

Claire Milligan visit to King’s with her mother

During the School half term break in Diamond and Hon OV Stephan Le numerous trips to Everest Base camp, October it was a real pleasure to welcome Marchand as being two of her inspirational Kilimanjaro and the Zambezi River and has Claire Milligan (Co 90-92) and her mother, teachers for English, as well as Hon OV Tim been fortunate to work with both Comic Mrs Milligan back to King’s. The School site Hickson, who taught her Physics. She was Relief and the BBC. was very quiet, which, given the current delighted that Hon OVs Cara and John Covid restrictions, was the perfect time for Roslington were also in School on the Claire attended The King’s School during Claire and her mother to visit and Director of day of her visit, meeting with Caroline from the period of the Assisted Place Scheme Development, Liz Elliott, was able to show the Alumni Relations team. Cara and John and she was an Honorary Scholar. She and them many of the buildings with which were Claire’s house parents during her time her mother were keen to learn about the Claire was very familiar from her time at at School and they shared some amusing current Bursary Programme at King’s and the King’s. College Hall was a must and Claire stories of the time when Claire boarded fact that government schemes no longer fondly remembered her time attending in College House. Claire had also been provide financial support for students to School assemblies in the Hall. The John actively involved with The King’s Herald – attend the School and external funding Moore Theatre also brought back a lot of the school newspaper produced once a of pupils now relies predominantly on memories for Claire, and she even spotted year – and John Roslington had overseen donations from individuals. herself in one of the pictures on the walls in the group of students who had contributed the entrance to the theatre, when she took to, and produced, this newspaper, recalling Claire is still in touch with a number of her part in a production of Oedipus during her times when they had been up against the school friends, having randomly bumped time at School. deadline, that the students had worked into Julia Bull (Co 90-92) about a year through the night to meet the deadline – ago. Julia was in College House at the Claire and her mother were very impressed just as in the real world (which reassured same time as Claire and they now cycle with the Michael Baker Boathouse and, Claire later during her medic training, when together regularly in Oxfordshire. Claire and although Claire had not rowed at King’s she worked night-shifts). Julia thought it would be fun to arrange a - she was actively involved in netball and reunion with their other King’s friends, and hockey – she had taken up rowing whilst at Cara and John joined Claire and Mrs Milligan they have in mind either the OV Reunion university at UCL studying Medicine. Both for a distanced cup of tea in Hostel House and Dinner in College Hall, or alternatively a visit Claire and Mrs Milligan enjoyed being enjoyed reminiscing and the Roslingtons with friends back at King’s School – when shown The Keyes Building and Claire was were very interested to hear about Claire’s life returns to normal. The alumni team especially impressed with the Sixth Form work as a Consultant in Emergency at King’s are always delighted to arrange Centre, and remembers when the sixth Medicine in Buckinghamshire, with a special such tours and visits to the School and look form during her time at School was located interest in Remote and Expedition Medicine. forward to welcoming Claire and Julia back in what is now The Chappel Memorial Claire has accompanied groups of charity to King’s again soon. Room. Claire remembers Hon OV Peter fundraisers all over the world including

Claire and Mrs Milligan and Roslingtons Claire and Mrs Milligan

4 I Connect 49 2020 OVs return to collect OV gifts

The Coronavirus pandemic has brought this year has certainly not been what they leavers a Christmas card with an invitation huge changes to all our lives and the Year expected. Due to the restrictions around to collect their gifts of OV ties and OV of 2020 OVs, who completed their King’s Covid, the Development and Alumni pashminas and it’s been lovely to see some education in the summer, have been Relations team were unable to hand out the of them back at School briefly and hear how particularly impacted. With online lessons, 2020 leavers’ OV gifts in the summer as we they’re getting on. cancelled exams and a cancelled King’s Day, would normally. This year we sent our 2020

OV Hamish Stigant Head of School OVs Imogen Gillgrass and Sebastian Hood OVs Zoe Kimber and Bronwen Edwards collecting OV tie December 2020 collecting OV gifts collecting OV pashminas December 2020

Key skills gap year experiences shared

Each year at King’s a key skills session is This year inevitably some gap year plans organised where young OVs return to were affected by the Coronavirus pandemic School to give insights into their time and Miles included in his talk the Chinese on gap years, to the current Upper Sixth phrase, “where there’s change, there’s students. This year, due to Covid restrictions, opportunity” and he also reflected, in a the session was run online led by Mrs Rees. freshly positive light, that Covid-19 has Five OVs took part, offering advice and given people the chance to shine. Miles told sharing their gap year experiences which us afterwards, “I definitely thought some included lots of travel to the Far East and old Chinese wisdom might offer some new Australia, volunteering, work experience as insight to the UK, or at least help some well as employment here in the UK. soon-to-be OVs.”

Our thanks go to Francesca Descher (Cl It certainly sounds like the students who 10-17) who worked at an international shared their gap year experiences learnt school in Egypt, Archie Jury (K 12-19) who some brilliant skills and their adventures did volunteer work in Nepal, Maggie and activities have given them a new and Bullock (Os 12-19) who worked at a school fresh insight. We are very grateful to the in South Korea, George Gudgeon (Os 08- five OVs who took part and willingly and 15) who travelled to Australia and Miles enthusiastically shared their gap year stories Maley (Cl 12-19) who spent time in China with the current students, and to Mrs Rees and Hong Kong. for organising the talks. OV gap year talk

Interview practice with OVs We are very fortunate here at King’s to their paces with a series of MMI – multiple be able to draw on the experiences and mini interviews – commonly used when expertise of our OV community to assist interviewing for Medicine courses. Helen current pupils. During the Autumn Term OVs focused on medical ethics and gave have been working with Head of Careers, her ‘candidates’ a scenario which they Helen Airdrie giving the Upper Sixth some might encounter as a GP and scored their practice with interviews. responses on how they would manage the situation. OV Chris Crabtree (W 03-05) interviewed pupils interested in a career in Civil As King’s Head of Careers puts it – ‘You can Engineering and former King’s teacher Hon never have too much interview practice’ so OV Bob Stone interviewed those hoping we hope the Sixth Form found this a useful to study Classics at University. exercise.

OV Helen Rimell (S 09-16) (pictured Many thanks again to the OVs who gave Helen Rimell left) put some medical hopefuls through their time so generously.

Connect 49 I 5 Renowned conductor returns to King’s

Welcoming OVs to come and visit us here at King’s has been particularly difficult under the current circumstances, but we were absolutely delighted this September, when Nicholas Cleobury (Ch 58- 68) came to meet King’s Headmaster, Liz Elliott, Nicholas Cleobury, Gareth Doodes, Simon Taranczuk and Christopher Allsop Garethh Doodes as well as Director of Music Simon Taranczuk (Hon OV) and was former Director of Music at King’s College Philharmonia; Royal Liverpool Philharmonic; Assistant Director of Music, Christopher Cambridge and an extremely well-regarded Royal Philharmonic; Royal Scottish National Allsop (Hon OV), along with Development musician, conducting the televised ‘Carols Orchestra; RTE Symphony Orchestra, Dublin; Director, Liz Elliott. The sun shone and the from King’s’ every Christmas. Sadly, Stephen Scottish Chamber Orchestra; SouthBank leaves on the College Green trees were passed away in November 2019, however his Sinfonia and Ulster Orchestra. He was truly autumnal, as Nicholas put his head widow, Lady Emma Cleobury, is delighted Founder Artistic Director in 1992 of the Britten around the newly refurbished College Hall that the King’s School concerts are named in Sinfoni and has conducted orchestras across (spotting his own name, as well as that of his and Nicholas’s honour. the world as well as a wealth of choirs and his late brother, Stephen (Ch 58-67) and choruses, including the BBC Singers, City other contemporaries of his, on the College Nicholas himself is also a very talented and of Birmingham Symphony Chorus and Hall Honours Boards) and had a tour of his expert international conductor, having Glyndebourne Festival Chorus. former house, Choir, recalling where he worked extensively both in the UK and spent his own school years. As Nicholas abroad (he worked in Brisbane for a few years, Simon Taranczuk, Christopher Allsop and looked into what was the former study of conducting many contemporary Australian Gareth Doodes all have a love of music in his Housemaster, Peter Curle (Hon OV), works here). In the UK, his experience with common, with many shared acquaintances it was a pleasant surprise for him to meet orchestras is extensive; he has conducted in the world of music, and many of whom current English teacher, Alice Fellows (Hon all the BBC Orchestras; Bournemouth Nicholas himself had worked alongside. OV) and learn about the important part that Symphony; Brighton Philharmonic; Britten We are very much looking forward to English plays in the School today. He even Sinfonia (Founder Laureate); City of welcoming Nicholas back to King’s to work managed a peek into his sixth form study, Birmingham Symphony; City of London with some of the King’s School pupils and which he shared with his good friend, Peter Sinfonia; English Chamber Orchestra; English to plan a major musical Cleobury Concert in Garland (Ch 63-68). String Orchestra; Guildford Philharmonic; the summer of 2021, which we are hoping Halle Orchestra; London Mozart Players; will also be open to OVs and the wider King’s Nicholas was visiting School to talk about the London Philharmonic; London Symphony; School community. We all agreed how newly named Cleobury Concerts which have Orchestra of the Age of the Enlightenment; wonderful it was to be able to experience been named in honour of Nicholas and his Orchestra of the Swan (Associate Director); live music again, albeit with the restrictions late brother, Sir Stephen Cleobury. Stephen Northern Sinfonia; Oxford Philomusica; of social distancing.

Oxbridge OVs give virtual interview top tips

To be successful in an Oxbridge application, 18), Charlie Mackintosh (Cr 13-20), Zoë OV Tom Hale shared some of his top tips for students need to demonstrate a passion for Kimber (S 15-20), Maha Munir (Br 10- interviews and says, “I’m really enjoying my their subject and a depth and breadth of 17), and Sophie Mackay (Cl 10-17). time at Cambridge and am grateful to King’s knowledge in their chosen discipline. for helping me to get here. I hope that my It was great to listen to their insights and advice about what to expect at interviews To support our Oxbridge applicants we are very thankful for the OVs who return and how to prepare for them by researching in making their case, King’s offers visits each year (whether in person or virtually) to who the interviewers are and their interests to the universities, gives advice on their encourage and inspire the next cohort of will also help this year’s applicants.” personal statements, and offers tutoring for Oxbridge OVs. the pre-admission tests.

Their final hurdle is the interview and this year’s candidates were busy practicing their interviewing skills with teachers over the last term.

In December some of our OVs currently at Oxford or Cambridge joined this year’s cohort to give some advice via Zoom. Their tips ranged from being confident about what they have written in their personal statements to showing that they are teachable by treating the interview as a discussion not an interrogation.

The OVs were: Tom Hale (Ca 12-18), Alice Evans (S 11-18), Andrew Salkeld (Cl 11- OV Tom Hale at Cambridge Oxbridge session

6 I Connect 49 OV shares Civil Engineering Insights

This December OV Tom Stringer (Ca 12- Engineering at Imperial College London, 18) gave a presentation to the Sixth Form with the intent of become chartered. He about his path into Civil Engineering. Tom has been awarded an Institution of Civil left King’s in 2018 having taken A Levels in Engineers (ICE) scholarship sponsored Maths, Further Maths, Physics and DT, which by Civil Engineering consultancy Atkins. is a fairly traditional route to Engineering, Engineering is about problem solving and but he said that there are many paths you covers a vast field. The breadth is something can take. that Tom really enjoys and the fact that you are not working in isolation. There is a Tom spent a gap year gaining valuable social aspect to many projects because you experience and skills which included have to consider how they might impact a volunteering in Nepal, work experience community and change people’s lives. with an engineering consultancy firm and working on a summer camp in Canada. He As the world continues to move towards OV Tom Stringer had a lot of fun and was also able to build a a sustainable future, there will be an great set of skills through these experiences increased need for civil engineers to think historically they may not have done this. and he found the industry placement critically about how environmentally- particularly useful, especially as it confirmed friendly a project may be, and if it will be Tom closed his talk by encouraging pupils that he really did want to study engineering. resilient enough to last for our communities. to apply for programmes such as internships Nowadays, engineers are considering the and scholarships because, he said “you really Tom is currently studying a 4 year MEng environmental impact of their designs, have nothing to lose and a great deal to degree in Civil and Environmental as well as aspects such as ecology where gain”.

Tour of the Undercroft

In October Head of Alumni Relations Archaeologist conducted a dig outside lighting and undergound heating. There Caroline had a tour of the newly-refurbished College Hall which also yielded some are also toilets and a kitchen area, and a Undercroft of College Hall. The area was interesting items from College Green’s past. lift which goes down to the Undercroft used in medieval times as a Cathedral store Caroline met Cathedral stonemason and from the South Cloister, but also up into room and many OVs will remember its Project Manager Emily Draper who showed College Hall, meaning that College Hall more recent history as a Sixth Form centre. her the transformation. The space itself has is now wheelchair accessible. It really is a The Cathedral received a grant from the been divided into three good sized rooms. fantastic space and very atmospheric. You National Lottery Heritage Fund to finance A great deal of thought has gone into can find out more about the Undercroft this project which was to create a centre making them suitable for a range of uses Centre on the Cathedral’s website www. for learning, heritage and arts for the whole and there are many clever design touches worcestercathedral.org.uk/learning/ community. During the work the Cathedral such as hidden plug sockets, adjustable undercroft-learning-centre

Connect 49 I 7 Barnabas

Edward Cumming QC (Br 90-01)

On Thursday 22nd October 2020 we welcomed OV Edward Cumming QC (Br 90-01) back to School as Barnabas Speaker. St Barnabas was a fellow traveller with St Paul on his missionary journeys & is described in the Acts of the Apostles as “son of encouragement”. Distinguished OVs Gareth Doodes, Edward Cumming QC and Olivia Howard are invited to join our ‘Barnabas Group’ and return to speak in College Hall to share their experiences and life lessons with pupils.

Edward gave an inspiring address in College Hall talking about the Law which governs our society and to which we are all subject no matter what our position. He talked about his own career beginning with his studies at Downing College, Cambridge and then a scholarship to study at the Wharton Business School which is part of the University of Pennsylvania, and finally his training to become a barrister. Edward talked with enthusiasm about the breadth of cases that he has been involved in and the types of people he has argued cases for. He spoke of his love for his profession and the aspects of the role which particularly appealed to him.

Edward continued by telling the pupils that each of them has something inside them which excites them and ignites their energies and that they should use the opportunities they have at King’s to discover what it is, to find their passion, whatever it is, and then when they know what it is, to fight for it.

Following this Edward met Year 6 children at King’s St Alban’s (where he had also been a pupil) for a question and answer session in the Chapel followed by a tour.

He met with Headmaster Gareth Doodes and Head of School, Olivia to sign the Barnabas Book and be presented with his which evoked such strong memories. Wise, Head of School, Olivia and Deputies, Barnabas Shield. Tom and Will for a delicious lunch in the Edward particularly enjoyed a visit to the Vigornian Room. Edward was very keen to Edward then met some of this year’s Oxbridge Archives in Edgar Tower where school hear about the Sixth Formers’ study plans candidates over coffee to advise them on archivist Harriet Patrick showed him old and to offer advice and encouragement. the application and interview process and school photos and past copies of The then visited a Sixth Form Maths lesson. Vigornian where he featured. Edward was After lunch Edward gave a careers session delighted to pick out the faces of his old on Law in the Bolland Room to a group of A tour of the School followed including a school friends and teachers on this trip Lower Sixth students with Fifth Form and visit to the Michael Baker Boathouse, Keyes down memory lane. Edward was also Upper Sixth pupils participating via Teams. Building and new Library which were all impressed with the facilities in the new art He ended his day with a visit to King’s Hawford built after Edward had left the school. He was block and the talent on display. where a group of excited Year 6 pupils impressed with the sporting facilities on offer grilled him on his career and experiences. and the bright and friendly atmosphere in After the tour Edward joined the Headmaster the Library. Some of the school rooms were Gareth Doodes, Head of Sixth Form and old A full and rewarding day and a much- very little changed since his time at King’s school friend Josh Hand (Cl 91-01), Head deserved recognition for this OV. and he appreciated visiting familiar haunts of Alumni Relations, Caroline Mitchell-

8 I Connect 49 OVs take on the Fastnet Race

We were delighted that Hon OVs Cara and John Roslington have shared the following incredibly interesting information about two OVs involved with this well-known yacht race:

Two OVs, two generations apart, tell of the Fastnet Race, one of the toughest offshore sailing races.

My first reaction when James Roslington, (Cr 85-95) told us that he had entered for the Fastnet Race last year was one of maternal horror. I remembered only too vividly the tragedy of the 1979 race when there were 19 fatalities, 75 yachts capsized and 5 lost entirely. Only 84 out of 303 yachts finished the 605-mile race from Cowes in the Isle of Wight, round the Fastnet Rock off the southwest coast of Ireland and then back to Plymouth. It resulted in the biggest peace-time rescue operation ever. We were in Guernsey at the time and heard that Peter Dorey, a very well-known Guernseyman was lost. He went overboard and his safety harness failed.

My second thought was that it had been GBR 1180 x at the Rock a wake-up call to the yachting fraternity and a great deal had been learned about a photograph of him in the School Archive; his wife and an experienced dinghy sailor in safety measures, boat design and radio all his had been lost in the war. I found a her own right, he has. communications. So we followed his picture of him on Castle House photograph. progress via a tracking app with parental Once we started talking boats, he told How many more OVs are there out there intensity and waited with bated breath me something of his sailing experiences, who have undertaken the rigours of the to hear from him. He rang us on arrival in including his two Fastnet races. He sailed Fastnet Race or indeed have other sailing Plymouth. “I think I’ll take up golf!” he said. very beautiful, well-known yachts in the stories to tell? Let us hear them. 50s & 60s, becoming a very experienced & I first metDavid Mocatta (Ca 43-45) 25 skilled skipper. Recently, I asked him to write Caroline Roslington (Hon OV, 1977-2011) years ago when he got in touch to ask if I had it all down and with the help of Charmian,

What they don’t tell you about offshore racing – Fastnet 2019 For many amateur sailors, more used to Jim was a veteran of 300,000 miles at sea island-hopping in the Aegean, offshore – roughly equivalent to ten times round racing seems like an alien world. Seen from the world — while our mate Georgie had afar, racing crews sprinting past in their competed in France’s notoriously demanding expensive, matching kit and their high-tech Figaro series, and regaled us with hair- yachts might as well be in a different universe. raising tales including a near-sinking off the It’s not unusual for a cruising sailor never to coast of Ireland. The rest of the crew had a have gone racing; or for a racing sailor never decent amount of experience, including two to have joined a cruise. veterans of the Clipper Round the World Race, a racer from the Junior Offshore Group, and Nevertheless, I thought it might be fun to try others with extensive time spent in dinghies it out. Having seen (and dodged to avoid) and cruising. Still, this was the first Fastnet for many smart, superbly quick racing yachts in everyone except Jim. Together, we trained the Solent, curiosity got the better of me. I over several weekends and took part in four decided to join a crew for the Fastnet Race qualifying races to be ready for the Fastnet 2019. Like other cruising sailors, I was aware of Fastnet 2019 team this iconic race, initiated by the Royal Ocean At the start of the race off Cowes, we found including James Roslington (top left) Racing Club in 1925 and renowned as one of ourselves among a mix of throughbred racing the classic offshore races in the world. yachts and famous survivors. Meanwhile the been allowed to warm up on Centre Court professional crews included some of the immediately before the Wimbledon Final. We were a crew of ten, including a best sailors in the world; as a sport, yacht professional skipper and mate, aboard racing is unusual because amateurs compete The race start was spectacular, with dozens Arthur Logic, a Beneteau First 40. Our skipper alongside world-class athletes. It felt as if we’d of boats jockeying for position. We had a

Connect 49 I 9 tremendous start, being among the first boats better, but down below, nausea struck within The weather eased off during the run back in our class to cross the line, skilfully steered moments. Only three of the crew were to Land’s End. We arrived at Plymouth in by Jim. Minutes later, a strange whirring noise unaffected; we later heard that another boat sunshine mid-afternoon. Stepping on to the filled the air, to restore our perspective. It had to turn back as its crew had ceased to pontoon, unsteady on our feet after five days grew to the roar of an express train, as a giant function due to incapacitating sea sickness. at sea, we drank champagne and the sailor’s French trimaran sped past at twice our speed, Heading into the night, conditions became Caribbean cocktail, Dark ‘n’ Stormy. For once, overtaking us from the class that started violent, as we were thrown and battered it felt like we’d earned it. Jim said afterwards behind ours, its helmeted sailors suspended in Arthur’s fibreglass shell. One of our crew that it had been a “brutal” race. Yet there was above the winged hull like acrobats. members, uncomplaining and stoical, was something magic in those moments — clearly in pain — we later found out he had speeding off at the start, the procession of The route of the race took us through the four broken ribs. sails at Land’s End, even the white-knuckle Needles channel along the south coast ride at the Rock, and the plastic mugs of of England. Once past Land’s End and The race became tougher as we neared the champagne on the pontoon. Finally, it was the Scillies, we would head into the Irish Fastnet Rock at night. The bravado chat of obvious why the racers do it. Sea. The aim of the race was to round the getting a selfie poised heroically against the Fastnet Rock off the south-west corner of outline of the Rock’s lighthouse had long James Roslington (Cr 1985-95) began sailing Ireland, and then head back to the finish in faded as we steered in darkness toward the at age of two and has sailed extensively in the Plymouth. solitary light. The approach was hard steering, Channel, the Atlantic coast of Europe and the having to grip the wheel as the boat heeled Mediterranean. Since racing in the Fastnet, The trouble started in the Irish Sea. Out of over on the edge, with half of the watch too he has competed in the 2020 Caribbean 600 the comparative safety of the Channel, we sick to steer. Exhausted, with the Rock only a and plans to join the 2021 Fastnet Race. were exposed to the weather rolling in from few miles away, we went below as the next the Atlantic. Several of crew began looking watch came on. a bit green. Being out in the open air was

David Mocatta (Ca 43-45)

David’s family had moved to the South and 60s. The Yachting Monthly magazine the Lloyd’s community but at the end of the Coast where he enjoyed the summer in had reported the race and showed a racing season and before the boat was laid the family 16ft sailing dinghy with his two photograph of the crew but David was up for the winter several weekend informal brothers, but his father soon purchased a not in it; he was telephoning home to tell ‘jollies’ were organised when other people slightly larger vessel; it had two small bunks, his parents that he was safe. Expecting a not connected with Lloyd’s were permitted a primus stove and a bucket. He purchased hero’s greeting after several days in dreadful to join club members as crew. These were from an ex-War Department store the weather, he has often recounted how he always popular and during the two days, compass from a Spitfire and sailed with a learned that one of the Boston Terriers bred depending on weather and tides, Lutine friend to Cherbourg where he was shouted by his mother had fatally mauled another would sail along the south coast or across a warning by a fisherman because the and when, somewhat exhausted, he arrived to Cherbourg; David maintains that it was an harbour was still cluttered with submerged home he found the household in deep excellent way to get to know people quickly. wartime shipwrecks. His little craft was mourning and preoccupied with that event A growing family meant his sailing days with named Iolanthe and had been owned by only. Lutine became fewer, but for several years Francis B Cooke who published many guide he would skipper the ‘Over 40s weekend’. books for amateur sailors. This passionate He took part in the following Fastnet Race After the launch of a new Lutine in 1970, this yachtsman had been refused service in WWI in 1959 which was less exhausting and eventually became the ‘Over 50s weekend’! because of a weak heart but was still writing more pleasurable. That year the skipper was articles for the Yachting Monthly magazine Brian Stewart, the owner of Zulu, and also *The original Lutine, a frigate, foundered off when over 100 years old. well-known and respected in the sailing the Dutch coast in 1799 with a cargo of bullion. world. The two yachts, Lutine and Zulu The ship’s bell was retrieved and was used in the After leaving King’s David joined a firm would often be seen together in the Solent. Underwriting Room and rung as a trading signal. of insurance brokers at Lloyd’s of London Over the years, David often wrote reports Today it is often rung on ceremonial occasions. where his knowledge of sailing drew him to of races for the Lloyd’s ‘in house’ magazine the 60ft Camper & Nicholson yawl, Lutine*, and contributed photographs of the events. built in 1952 and owned by Lloyd’s. His Racing crews were made up of members of previous sailing interest meant he was soon to become one of the experienced skippers — a huge responsibility with a crew of twelve – and he took part in two Fastnet Races, many RORC races and Tall Ships races.

The first Fastnet Race in which David took part was the 1957 which became notorious for the bad weather experienced by all the competitors. The skipper was ‘Sandy’ Howarth, a highly-respected yachtsman whose calmness in any situation was to influence many younger members as they Army portrait of David by Derek Evans With a Channel Race crew spent more time learning to sail in the 50s

This is an abridged version. The full articles can be found on the School website ksw.org.uk/fastnet-race-ovs/ 10 I Connect 49 King’s Today

Katie Beever, Alison Oliver and Gareth Doodes at Open Day 2020 in masks handing out cake

During the pandemic, it has been a major has probably been its steepest since teacher have been forced to distance, when social task for all those involved and working training (quite a few years ago for some!) We gatherings have stopped, trips cancelled, at King’s to keep the quality of teaching have had to plan for the likely, the unlikely; and meetings taken place remotely, it provision high and none more so than the the expected, the unexpected. Staff have would be easy to feel detached. Far from teaching staff who were on the ‘front line’ learned to master ipads, Firefly, Teams and it: there is a sense of resilience, sense of teaching numerous classes of different SIMS * whilst simultaneously teaching pupils optimism about the future and this shared pupils every day. This may be of interest in their classrooms as well as those at home experience has united the staff body. Have to OVs who remember a more traditional via video link who are self-isolating. Things we found it difficult? - yes; are there things style of teaching at King’s School, than is became more interesting when some that we miss? - of course; will we be stronger happening currently, as necessitated by the teachers had to self-isolate resulting in their once normality returns - definitely.” restrictions of Covid for social distancing, lessons being beamed from their home into Simon Cuthbertson, Hon OV year group ‘bubbles’ and hygiene. We asked their classroom (sometimes with the added Simon Cuthbertson (Hon OV), Head interest of staff young children running riot *Teams -a Microsoft communication tool of Geography, to share with us some of in the background). And then there has (including video) to support students and his thoughts and reflections on teaching been the relentless cleaning routines at the staff remotely during the pandemic: start and end of every lesson… *Firefly – our central online hub for students, staff and parents for work “These have certainly been challenging In many ways it is extraordinary that King’s submission, resource sharing times. has remained in full operation since lock *SIMS - our School Information down. Everyone - teaching and non- Management System database for Having spent the Summer Term teaching teaching staff, pupils & parents - has played timetabling, report writing and registers. classes from the confines of our own homes, their part to make this possible. The School it was a great relief to return in September site still looks a little unusual with marquees The pupils themselves have also been very and see pupils in our classrooms again. separating each year group bubble, the appreciative of the continuing teaching, one-way systems, and everyone wearing especially for those who have had to self- Staff have continuously been pushed out of face coverings, but the beating heart of the isolate this term. Two such pupils expressed their comfort zone and the learning curve School remains strong. At a time when staff their appreciation and shared with us, how

King’s hybrid learning Chemistry lesson Marquee on College Green

Connect 49 I 11 Senior Scholars - Carol service the change in teaching access meant they “I hadn’t imagined starting the school year “I wanted to share my massive appreciation weren’t ‘left behind’ when having to isolate working from home, however, despite to your team in supporting my child and at home : having to isolate for the first three weeks her peers during these difficult times. The of term due to contracting Coronavirus, I commitment, professionalism, humour, “Having access to all of my lessons online was still able to keep up with schoolwork dedication and enthusiasm shown to at a time of self-isolation meant that I never thanks to King’s remote learning system. everyone by your team has been second to missed a word the teacher said. The system It was such a relief to not fall behind in none.” the School installed allowed me to see classes, especially at the start of my A Level King’s Senior parent, Mrs Killman the notes the teachers were making and courses. Although it took some getting hear them simultaneously to ensure my used to, teachers swiftly adapted to all the “Thank you to all of our daughter’s teachers education was not diminished which was new technology and were quick to make for the commitment and effort put in during essential when starting the A Level courses. adjustments, where needed to improve my this time….the resources and support remote learning experience. shown by yourselves has been excellent!” The use of Teams granted the teachers access King’s Senior parents, Mr and Mrs Martin to share their screen with me if a PowerPoint At the end of the first half-term, I was was being displayed and still allowed me extremely grateful for the remote learning “I applaud the staff for their creativity in to ask questions, to which the teachers system that King’s has in place. Without adapting so swiftly and I have been so could respond to, if I didn’t understand it, I would have spent the last few weeks impressed with their patience, enthusiasm, something that was said in class. Being able rushing to catch up with work I had missed, and encouragement to the students. “ to engage in lessons and have access to all and I doubt I would have been as pleased King’s Senior parent, Mrs Pollock of the online textbooks prevented me from with the grades that I have achieved.” falling behind in my subjects which was a Joshua (U6) We also want to extend our own huge huge relief as the whole process of self- ‘Thank You’ to the amazing work of our isolation would have been far more difficult.” And finally, we have heard from a number teachers and the support staff here at King’s. Cerys (U6) of parents who applauded the adaptability of our wonderful teaching staff in learning and implementing new ways of teaching the pupils in their care:

Sixth formers outside College hall in masks Flexible Teaching Supervisors

12 I Connect 49 OV Film stars

OVs in King’s Showcase Collaboration

During the Autumn Term videos were subject areas and the pupils’ enthusiasm taken around School showcasing all the for what they learn. There are videos for different teaching departments and what every subject including Music, History and they have to offer. This was very much a Politics, Chemistry, Modern Languages, King’s collaboration as not one but two Mathematics, Rowing, CCF and Design OVs were involved in the filming of these Technology to name just a few. videos, Founder & Creative Director at video production company Swift Collective, Ben As well as subject films, there are also videos (Cr 12-19) getting a mention in the PE Martyn-Smith (S 09-16) and drone pilot on the library at King’s and on the Learning and Sport film as well an appearance from and videographer, Callum Jacob (Cl 09- Skills department. The latter features a OV and King’s teacher Harriet Lacey (Br 16). Callum is pictured here filming the section given by OV William Lloyd (Cr 93-04) in the Biology film. Harriet says she English department with Andrew Maund 13-20) about his King’s story and how the loved biology at King’s so much she came (Hon OV). Learning Skills provision he received has back to teach the subject following her given him skills for life. career as a vet! They have managed to capture a sense of the nurturing and invigorating environment It was great to spot some more OVs in the They really are fantastic and inspiring videos King’s provides and it is wonderful to hear videos too with sporting stars Sophie Le so do check them out on the King’s YouTube so many staff share their passion for their Marchand (Cl 96-07) and Cerys Preston channel to see if you spot any familiar faces!

OV shares his King’s Careers Story

the Careers Department helped him The Development and Alumni Relations after he decided full-time university was team work closely with the Careers not the route he wished to pursue. He Department, as Head of Careers, Helen discovered that he had an interest in the Airdrie explains in the video so that the property industry and was able to meet OV community can share their wealth with OV Keith Carnegie (H 86-88), who of insights and experience with the next sits on the board at Vistry, during Keith’s generation of OVs. We were delighted to visit to King’s School as part of his Barnabas spot OV Edward Cumming QC (Br 90- Day in 2019. Six months later and, following 01) in the video too, during his recent visit an intensive application process with the to King’s as our latest Barnabas Speaker. Toby Platt company, Toby was offered a permanent and full-time role at Vistry. We are very grateful to OVs who are so It was lovely to see one of our OVs featuring generous in giving their time to help with in the latest round of exciting King’s In the video Toby encourages current and careers events for King’s School students. If departmental videos. prospective pupils to make the most of the you would be interested in getting involved opportunities that the Careers Department with careers at King’s please do let us know OV Toby Platt (K 12-19) features in the and the OV network offers at King’s. at [email protected] careers video where he talks about how

King’s Hawford- Then & Now with 2020 OVs

We were thrilled to watch a new video for School, Ellie Deehan (W 13-20) and Ted King’s Hawford catching up with their 2013 Poel (Os 14-20) and last year’s Head of leavers, who 7 years later are now part of our School, Hamish Stigant (W 13- 20). They newest cohort of OVs from the Year of 2020. spoke eloquently aged 11 and 18 about the The film shows the OVs when they were wonderful opportunities Hawford offered age 11 talking about their favourite parts them with regards to outdoor learning, of Hawford and the lovely atmosphere it leadership skills, music, drama and sport. provides and then has lots of follow-up clips with the OVs, now aged 18, as they explain The film was produced by Julia Letts and how Hawford set the foundations for their James Atkinson at JDA media. Julia, herself future learning, passions and skills. a King’s parent, says, “Having first met this group of children in 2013, it’s been a joy to The 7 OVs featured are Charlie Mackintosh watch them grow into amazing, resilient and (Cr 13-20), Immie Gillgrass (W 13-20), talented young adults. Who knows where Emily Warner (Os 13-20), Hattie Wales they will be in another 7 years? Perhaps we (Os 13-20), last year’s deputy Heads of should make a sequel in 2027!” Charlie Mackintosh

Connect 49 I 13 Remembrance Day

This year The King’s School marked Remembrance Day in a new way in the shadow of Covid restrictions. During a pre- recorded service in College Hall, a wreath was laid on behalf of the King’s pupils by Head of School, Olivia and Head of Sixth Form and OV Josh Hand (Cl 91-01) laid a wreath on behalf of the OV community.

The Chamber Choir, directed by Hon OV Christopher Allsop sang Richard Quesnel’s For the Fallen and Greater Love by John Ireland, interspersed with photographs of some of the OVs who lost their lives in war.

The pre-recorded address was given OV Major James Scott (Os 90-01) who talked movingly about the nature of conflict, using Major James Scott an excerpt from Emily Mayhew’s book Wounded about a WWI doctor treating wounded soldiers in terrible circumstances. Major Scott invited us to think not about great heroes but about the ordinary people who were involved in the horrors of war.

Prayers were led by Hon OV Andrew Maund before the haunting Last Post was played and silence was observed.

They shall grow not old as we that are left grow old; age shall not weary them nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them. KSW JTC inspection 1945

KSW OTC NCOs 1916

14 I Connect 49 OV Weddings

Congratulations to OV Peter Brown (Cr 73 Sue Bullock, also a pupil at “The A.O”, and and, on reflection, perfectly describes that -76) on his marriage to Alice Ottley alumna, I guess it is safe to say, without sounding shortly afterwards Sue’s name came up on Sue Bullock. Here is their remarkable story: rather twee, that we became schoolday my Facebook page as a suggested friend. sweethearts – a friendship that continued That “click” on the accept button brought us “I arrived at King’s part way through the (on and off) until the mid-1980s when back together and soon we re-established Upper Remove year on a free transfer from work, other relationships and our respective our friendship as if no time had passed at all Hereford Cathedral School. Having endured marriages pushed us apart. setting us upon an emotional rollercoaster a rather unspectacular academic career resulting in Sue and I getting married. at King’s this was more than made up for Fast forward 30 or so years and during one by making a number of lifelong friends. lunchtime meeting with Jeremy, Vicki and The wedding day was held at the Colwall Park One of these is Jeremy Preston (Ch 66 - a couple of other old friends the subject Hotel on 30th May 2019 with the ceremony 76) whose sister, Vicki, was a pupil at The of “absent friends” was discussed, of which and wedding breakfast for close family Alice Ottley. It was through Vicki that I met Sue was one. Serendipity is a beautiful word followed by an evening celebration. The gods were on our side with it being sunny and warm so we were able to enjoy the lovely garden for canapés and photographs after the ceremony, and again to stretch our legs after the wedding breakfast and welcome guests to the evening celebration. Our thanks go to the staff of the Colwall Park Hotel for hosting a faultless day that will live on in our memory and to Laura Jenkinson Photography for her spectacular record of the day. A day filled with the joy and laughter that has been such an important feature of our new lives together making up for the lost years in between.

Our story goes to demonstrate the positive power of social media – or is it just fate?”

Robert Battrum (W 05-12) married Congratulations OV Harri Sapsford (née and socially distantly threw confetti! These Lizzie Reavley on 27th July 2019 in Burford, Cornock) (Cl 04-11) who married Jamie included Phoebe Cox (Br 04-11), Lucy Oxfordshire. John Adeney (W 05-12) and Sapsford on 5th September 2020 at St Scales (S 04-11) and Hugo Watkins (Cl Tom Battrum (Cr 06-08) were ushers and Mary’s Church, Doverdale. 04-11).” Kate Robinson (W 06-13) was the Best Man. Many thanks must go to the large contingent OV Bridesmaids included Emma Pearman of OVs who attended the wedding and (Cl 06-11) and Millie Cornock (Cl 08-15) helped make the day so special. and other OV guests included Tom Westley (Cl 04-11) and Peter Vyvyan-Robinson (S 74-76).

Harri tells us, “Due to the Covid restrictions our only guests were close family and bridal party, but as a lovely surprise a few friends turned up at the church to see us come out

Connect 49 I 15 Wonderful wedding news for OV Benjamin Westwood) Brown (Br 96-07), Thomas Humphrey (Cr 94-04) and former King’s Cox (Cr 97-07), Beth (née Martyn Smith) Head of Alumni Communications Alice Raybould (Cl 00-05), Gemma Martyn Brunt (Hon OV). Smith (Cl 92-02), Martin Renshaw (Cr 01-03), Dan Humphrey (S 12-19), Lottie On 12 October 2019, Benjamin Humphrey (Cr 14-19), Jabbar Riaz (Br Humphrey and Alice Brunt married in 91-96), Lucy Robinson (K 04-11), Jenny Worcester Cathedral, celebrating afterwards (née Clee) O’Bryan (Co 88-90) and Tom with champagne under the Cathedral’s West Riddell (Cr 02-09). Window and a reception at the Guildhall. Current and former staff comprised King’s was significantly represented in the Hon OVs Kate and Roger Appleby, bridal party and in the congregation. Stephan and Sarah Le Marchand, Congratulations to OV Tom Wadsworth Rosie and Simon Shearburn, (K 93-96) on his marriage to Emma Rollins Oliver Brooks (S 96-01) was one of Mark and Gill Dorsett, Chris and Abi at The Royal Crescent Hotel, Bath on 5th the best men, Simon Renshaw (Cr 95- Haywood, Joanna Lucas, Catherine December 2019. Tom is the elder son of OV 04) and Abigail Williams (Ch 94-04) Cantin, Alan Deichen, Emma Tim Wadsworth (S 56-61). were ushers and Hannah Lucas (Cr 01- Woodward, Rosie Ellender, Shara Parry, 08) and Katie (née Smith) To (Cr 00- Paul Haynes, PC Thompson, Suzanne Tom said, “We only had a small wedding 07) were brideswomen. Nevitt, Penny Hope, Sue Broadway, with close family and it was perfect. Not Gemma Minton and Tracey Hundley. stressful at all. We stayed at the hotel too. Our George Ormerod (10-12) and Sophie daughter Alice was the ring bearer. We had Whitworth (Hon OV) read during the Many congratulations to Ben and Alice and been together 8 years prior and thought that service, and guests included Beth (née we wish them all the very best for the future. it was certainly time to tie the knot.”

Super wedding news for Colette Stock (née Brown) (Cr 04-08) who married Tim Stock on Saturday August 3rd 2019 at St Andrew’s Church, Barnt Green. Their reception was held at Worcester Cricket Club with views over to The King’s School and Worcester Cathedral. Colette and Tim had their honeymoon in Mallorca and then spent a week travelling around Germany which included a visit to see OV Michelle Hilbert (née Malke) (Cl 06-07). Many congratulations to David Gregory (S 50-58) and his wife Gwen on their wedding Colette’s sister and OV Hilary Brown (Cr 06- in the middle of lockdown. Because the 13) was bridesmaid and her brother and OV churches were closed, Banns could not be Duncan Brown (Cl 99-05) was an usher. Other read so David swore an affidavit on his KSW OVs in attendance were Keelan McNally bible at a vicarage in Maidenhead. The couple (Cl 00-05), Zoë Jordan (née Monkley) (Ch were married by Common Licence on 31 01-08), Rebecca Leach (Cr 01-08), Amy October 2020 at Rotherfield Greys near their Haddock (Ch 01-08) and former Headteacher home in Henley on Thames. They welcomed Tim Keyes (Hon OV) along with his wife 13 guests and despite the awful weather it Mary-Anne (Hon OV). was a fabulous day and Henley Rugby Club laid on a super lunch. The couple’s planned It was a fantastic day made even more holiday has been moved to next Spring when special by King’s friends being there. they also hope to catch up with Bob Rowley (S 49-56). 16 I Connect 49 Archives

1977: Establishment of College House College House, based at No. 15 College of Keith Bridges. Initially a private study was Green, was established as a boarding house provided, but this was abandoned when for Sixth Form girls at King’s. the girls complained of feeling isolated from their classmates, and the girls were assigned Number 15 College Green, home of College House 1977-1999. Photographed in 1992. Six years earlier, in 1971, King’s had seen its to boys’ boarding houses for social activities first girls admitted into the Sixth Form, based and after-school study. at Number 14. The first four girls to enter of additional showers: a small adjoining King’s in its 430-year history were Nicola Number 15 College Green (The Guesten) house, between Number 15 and Edgar Bradbear, Barbara Cookson, Catherine Hay was built in c.1745 over the sites of the Tower, had previously been converted into and Alison Heath. These girls’ arrival marked almonry and the original Deanery. In 1851, a garage with an apartment above by Dean the start of a regular and growing intake of the house became the residence of the 5th Kemp; the garage was turned back into girls into the Sixth Form. Mr. Annett (HM Stall Canon of Worcester Cathedral. The a sitting room for the boarders, and the 1959-1979) would later describe the decision house later became the Deanery, before flat integrated into College House. (This to admit girls as, ‘an entirely successful the Dean moved to Number 10 in 1976 part of the building, now known as 15A, is move’, undertaken to provide education for and the school acquired a lease for the once again a separate residence.) John and girls in subjects which ‘were not taught or building; it was renamed “College House” Caroline Roslington opened College House not taught very well’ in girls’ schools. The at the suggestion of Richard Knight, King’s in September 1977, with 21 girls. Sarah and girls were based at the Headmaster’s House, Second Master. Little work was required Stephan Le Marchland took over in 1992, under the care of his wife Romey Annett to prepare Number 15 as accommodation and the house continued until the end of and, as they were all scientists, the tutelage for College House other than installation boarding in July 1999.

1986: Establishment of Eliot House

12 College Green

15 years after the first girls joined the sixth were Canon Eliot and Lady Alethea Eliot. boarding house (College) set up in 1977. Form at King’s, Eliot House was established Andrew Milne (HM 1979-1983) secured the as a house for Sixth Form girls, in order to building for use by King’s in 1979 with a Eliot House was named for Canon Peter accommodate their growing numbers at 125-year lease: it was divided into numbers and Lady Aletha Eliot, who had lived at the school. 12 and 12a, the latter of which became the Number 12 from 1965 to 1975; its first and residence of the School Chaplain until the only Housemaster was Bob Allum. Eliot This was based at Number 12 College Green, end of boarding. House was short-lived: following the move a house dating from the late sixteenth- to full co-education in 1991, the girls were or early seventeenth century; extended Following the successful introduction of integrated into former dayboy houses ready in 1844, the house became the home of girls into King’s Sixth Form in 1971, and for September 1992, when Eliot House was Canon Ryle Wood. Number 12 continued their growing numbers in the 1980s, it was closed. From 1992, Number 12 became to be used by the Dean and Chapter until decided that a day house for girls should home to the History department. 1975, when the last Cathedral occupants be established to complement the girls’

Connect 49 I 17 1984: Establishment of Kittermaster House

Growing day pupil numbers throughout was sent to Cambridge on a short course and an Art Circle led by Miss. Campbell to the latter decades of the twentieth century run jointly by the University and Army, and complement Meriel’s Music Society. The had made King’s four existing dayboy emerged from it a qualified teacher. He Dancing Club, Play-Reading and Debating houses unmanageably large. Newly- was posted to India and joined the staff at Societies all thrived, with day boys joining in arrived Headmaster John Moore (HM the Prince of Wales’s Royal Indian Military alongside boarders. In addition, a joint Sixth 1983-1998) therefore decided to form two College, where for seven years he prepared Form Club was established between King’s, new houses, to reduce individual dayboy Indian boys for Sandhurst on the lines of the Alice Ottley School, the Royal Grammar house numbers from 80 to 50 pupils. This an English public school. He returned to School, the Girls’ Grammar School and had the two-fold advantage of easing England, still a soldier, and was appointed the College for the Blind, with two pupils the individual Housemasters’ workloads by the War Office to be Second Master at the from each school forming a committee to and responsibilities, while providing more Duke of York’s School, Dover. Kittermaster organise cultural and social programmes. opportunities for members of the school to left the army in to accept a housemastership reach positions of responsibility and make at Canford School in 1928. He embarked their mark within King’s community. The on a London University external teaching 1984 issue of The Vigornian explained the course in English, took his finals in 1939 names of the two new houses thus: ‘The and achieved a First Class Honours. He new houses, following the previous pattern, was King’s twenty-ninth headmaster, but will be called Kittermaster and Oswald after only the second to have graduated outside an ex-Headmaster and the other great Saint Oxbridge (following S.P. Denning, HM 1852- associated with the Cathedral.’ 1856, a Durham man).

Kittermaster was named for Ronald He and his wife Meriel moved into School Kittermaster (HM 1942-1959), who had House in April 1942. When the summer Headmaster Kittermaster, 1959 Photographed on his retirement by been appointed as Headmaster of King’s term began, King’s had a total of 163 boys Graham Hardman (Ch 1952-1959). during the turbulent years of the Second and the new headmaster’s priorities were World War. The eldest of five brothers, F.R. clear: to increase pupil numbers; sort out Kittermaster’s first Housemaster was Kittermaster was born in October 1899 and the school’s finances which had taken a Stewart Davies; Richard Davis then took educated at Rugby School. A classicist who beating during the evacuation to Criccieth; over in 2002. For the first five years of the studied Science and Mathematics in Army and restore the morale of the eight staff house’s existence, Kittermaster was based Class, Kittermaster passed into they Royal members who had returned to Worcester in the New Block (now the Annett Building). Military Academy, Woolwich from where he with Mr. Creighton. Mr. Kittermaster was In 1989 it relocated to School House; and in was commissioned in November 1918. He a keen actor and lover of poetry; Meriel 2006 it moved again to Choir House, where served with a Royal Field Artillery Brigade was a keen musician. Shortly after the it has been based ever since. Kittermaster in Ireland for two years, before transferring Kittermasters’ arrival at King’s a Literary adopted navy with sky blue and yellow to the Army Education Corps in 1920. He Society was established by Mr. Kittermaster stripes for its tie.

1919: Establishment of Natland House

Following the end of the First World War, an remaining boarders were placed into the three never been about to find the person who increase in the number of boarders justified pre-existing houses (School, Castle and Hostel). performed this feat.)” the starting of a fourth boarding house at That September The Vigornian reported: “The King’s in 1919. Rev. R.J. Whitaker, who had boys from Natland started afresh in various Mr. Whitaker subsequently retired from been the school’s chief mathematical master houses, and seem to have settled down again, King’s at the end of the summer term of since 1911, took Natland, a large house on under less hectic conditions. (We are told that 1935; he and his wife moved to the Vicarage the west side of Battenhall Road, which he the record from Natland to the Edgar Tower, of Cleeve Prior, near Evesham. and his wife conducted as a boarding house on a bike, was only a few seconds. We have for thirteen years.

Mr. Whitaker’s dry, quiet, humour, and his readiness to give his time and his energies freely to any activities – dramatic ventures, chess, gymnastics, debates – that might be afoot, and his faithful attendance on the playing fields, in his early days as a player, later sometimes as spectator but more often as umpire or referee, made him popular with everyone in the School, but especially with his boys in Natland.

However, following the Great Depression, parents began to view school fees as an extravagance at a time of such financial difficulty, and King’s saw a corresponding decline in pupil numbers. The decision was made to sell Natland house in 1932, and the KSW Staff photo c.1917

18 I Connect 49 1961: Establishment of Wulstan House

Wulstan died in 1095 in his eighty-eighth year, and was buried at Worcester Cathedral. He was subsequently canonised on 21 April 1203 by Pope Innocent III. St. Wulstan was later adopted by King John as his spiritual patron during his quarrel with the pope; in 1216 John, in his last swift illness, willed that he should be buried “in the Church of Saint Mary and St. Wulstan of Worcester”.

The New Block (now the Annett Building), home of Wulstan House 1961-1989. Photograph taken from the King’s School Prospectus, 1967-1968

With the increase of pupil numbers at King’s Born c.1007 in one of the Itchingtons in after the Second World War, the two existing Warwickshire, Wulstan attended school in Day Boy Houses Chappel and Creighton the Benedictine monastery at Evesham grew to an unwieldy size. In 1961 Mr. Annett before attending the larger one at (HM 1959-1979) decided to cut Middle Peterborough. He was later ordained by School dayboys out of houses and divide the the Bishop of Worcester as the parish priest two sets of Senior School dayboys into four. of Hawkesbury, Gloucestershire. Wulstan subsequently followed his father into the From Creighton House, Mr. Annett formed cloister at Worcester, eventually becoming Wulstan House, with purple for its colour, and prior, teaching children of the cloister. He Mr. F.R. Logan became its first Housemaster. increased the establishment of monks from The house was named after St. Wulstan, twelve to 50, a number supportable only by former prior of Worcester, and was located the growth and better management of the in the New Block (now the Annett Building) monastic estates. It appears that Wulstan until 1989 when it relocated to School was a missionary at heart: in his enlarged St. Wulstan, as depicted in a window in Worcester House, where it has remained ever since. and outward-looking priory it seems that Cathedral Cloisters. Reproduced by permission of the Chapter of Worcester Cathedral. boys were taught in growing numbers.

It was wonderful to return to the School We are grateful to Michael Kirk (Ca 1953- Also in October, Richard Cunningham Archive in September 2020 after an absence 1963) for donating his KSW boater badge, (Cr 1959-1966) donated a number of KSW of five months due to Covid-19. A number as well as numerous Castle House and St. rugby photographs from the 1960s to the of new items were donated to the archive Alban’s photographs, to the Archive this School Archive – thank you very much. before lockdown at the end of March; and year. a few more have been received during the As ever, the School Archives is very grateful Autumn term. Meanwhile visitor numbers In September, David Smith (Br 1958- for such donations of original material from remain virtually non-existent while 1967) donated one St. Alban’s and two Old Vigornians. Please keep them coming restrictions are in place. Bright House photographs to the School in! Archive – thank you.

New Accessions Also in September the School Archive Visits from OVs gratefully received a collection of Castle In January 2020 Ruth Reeves (Staff In October it was lovely to welcome House photographs from Michael 1985-2008) donated a number of form Barnabas Speaker Edward Cumming Davenport (Ca 1965-1970). photographs and other items to the School (Br 1990-2001) to the School Archive. Archive. Thank you very much. Thank you to Mike Smith (Br 1961-1971) Mr. Cumming saw his Bright House for donating his 1960s KSW boater to the photographs and numerous mentions in In February Clive Marks (S 1969-1974) School Archive. The Vigornian during his visit. kindly donated school certificates and other records pertaining to his father, William Clare Hurle (Co 1983-1985) kindly OV visits to the Archive are currently under Guy Marks (S 1941-1944). donated a 1919 printed pamphlet, ‘The review owing to Covid-19 restrictions. OVs Worcester Cathedral King’s School’ by James who wish to visit when circumstances allow, We were delighted to receive a set of School W. Wilson, a former Canon of Worcester please email the Archivist, Harriet Patrick, Rules, as well as a KSW rowing vest, which Cathedral, which was wonderful to receive [email protected]. came to us from Peter Hughes (Os 1976- into the Archive in October. 1985) in September.

Connect 49 I 19 Rowing Adventures and Misadventures at Nineteenth-Century King’s The King’s School Boat Club is thought to river, but notwithstanding this, a few that it rushed over the craft and speedily have been founded in 1877. We cannot of the elder men did take it up & some swamped it, the occupants being left to be certain of this since The Vigornian was became noted oarsmen later, but there struggle in the water … The elder Wilding not launched until 1878 and the authority was nothing comparable to the excellent clung to the pair-oar boat, whilst Mr. Baxter, for the club’s foundation statement is an crews the school now puts on the river. who is a good swimmer, struck out for the anonymous article on the club’s history, shore, supporting, as well as he was able, reprinted from The Worcester Herald in Swimming was encouraged but as there Mr. Biddulph and the younger Wilding; The Vigornian in June 1914. We do know, were no public swimming places on the after being thus assisted for some lengths, however, that the Boat Club’s foundation Severn until later, we were thrown back on Wilding swam to the bank by himself, and, membership was small and rowing was not the Baths in Sansome Walk, then held by with some difficulty, was dragged out by the taken up seriously, cricket and football being a Mr. Lett. The first Severn bathing barge persons on shore. Baxter, whose conduct the most popular forms of sport at the time. was moored at the top of Pitch Croft & in the trying and dangerous position he subsequently a proper open swimming bath was placed in, is deserving of the highest Nonetheless, we do know something about was placed below the Grand Stand. This commendation, continued to support river sport at King’s during the middle knowledge of swimming proved its value Biddulph until they were about fifteen of the nineteenth century. The School more than once & especially when Tom yards from the shore, when his strength Archive contains two dramatic accounts of Baxter saved two of his schoolfellows who failed him, and it was with great difficulty King’s participation in rowing during the had capsized a boat & were unable to swim. Biddulph could be kept above water. By this 1850s and 1860s, over a decade before the time a considerable number of spectators foundation of its official Boat Club. The first The idea that rowing was prohibited but lined the shore, and intense anxiety was of these, from 1859, ended in tragedy. swimming encouraged at King’s during felt as to the result of the accident. The the 1860s is intriguing, though perhaps fate of Biddulph appeared doubtful, for William Henry Helm, the twenty-third somewhat erroneous given what we his chance of escape was rapidly lessening, Headmaster at The King’s School, was know of the above-mentioned boating when happily Mr. W.H. Osler, who was in an appointed Headmaster in 1856 at the mishap involving four King’s pupils getting outrigged skiff, pulled up just in time, and young age of 24. At the time of his into difficulty whilst rowing a pair-oared succeeded in dragging Biddulph into his appointment Mr. Helm and his family were outrigger. Of Tom Baxter’s heroic actions boat. Baxter then reached the shore, and well-known in Worcester. Mr. Helm’s father, during this incident, further details are held the elder Wilding, who still clung to one Charles Augustus Helm, was Mayor of in the School Archive. of the capsized boats, was rescued by Mr. Worcester and had practised as a solicitor Baumgartener, junior, and Mr. Ingram. The in the city until his death in January 1854, Thomas Holmes Baxter (KSW 1856-1866) was young men who had thus been immersed aged 57. William Helm matriculated at St born on 14 October 1847, the son of Thomas were taken to the Grand Stand, when John’s College, Oxford in 1850, before his stimulants were applied to them, and appointment at King’s six years later. In 1858 afterwards they all got home … It is only he married Elizabeth Caroline Denning, fair to state that the crew of the steam- the sister of King’s previous Headmaster, tug behaved very properly, reversing the Stephen Denning (HM 1852-1856). Mr. engines and putting back the tug directly Helm brought his bride to College Yard; but the accident was witnessed, and preparing the following summer, after taking violent to lend any aid that might be required. exercise on the river, Mr. Helm collapsed and died on 19 June 1859. Poor Mrs. Helm gave Baxter’s heroic actions, supporting the birth to their son in 1860, whom she named boys in the water until others came to their William Henry after her deceased husband. assistance, were witnessed by Maurice Day (HM 1860-1879) and one E.R. Ingram, possibly Our second river- King’s pupil Edward Richard Ingram (KSW based archival 1862-1866). On 17 June 1865 Baxter was Albert Webb’s letter to Alec Macdonald, 6 August 1934 record tells presented with a bronze Humane Society another dramatic Medal and silver cup for his bravery. A tale, although Baxter, King’s Second Master 1838-1872. He paragraph in Berrows Worcester Journal read: its outcome was entered Form I as an eight-year-old boy in considerably March 1856, during Denning’s last term as By the report of the distribution of happier. In a Headmaster. He subsequently became a prizes for the Cathedral School, it will letter dated 6 King’s Scholar in 1858. On 13 April 1865, the be observed that Mr. Baxter was this W.H. Helm (HM 1856-1859) August 1934, 17-year-old Baxter saved two fellow rowers, day presented with a medal and a silver Albert Webb Leonard James Wilding (KSW 1861-1865), cup for his gallantry in rescuing from (KSW 1862-1867) provided detailed memoirs aged 15, and Cuthbert E. Biddulph (KSW drowning two schoolfellows. of his time at King’s under Maurice Day (HM 1862-), aged 14, from drowning in a boating 1860-1879). The recipient of Webb’s letter mishap near Pitchcroft. Also in their boat What became of was Alec Macdonald (Ca 1911-1915, Staff was Leonard’s elder brother, Alban Wilding Baxter’s silver cup is 1933-1949) following requests for memories (KSW 1861-), who was steering. The incident not known; but his of King’s for his 1936 school history volume was recorded in the Berrows Worcester medal resides in the A History of the King’s School Worcester. In Journal two days later: School Archive. this letter, Webb wrote: On nearing home the boat was overtaken Rowing was not included in the School by a steam-tug, and, notwithstanding sports [during the 1860s]; indeed there that the head of the boat was kept to the Baxter’s bronze Humane was an understood prohibition of the wash of the tug, the swell was so heavy Society Medal, 1865 20 I Connect 49 Features on Teachers

Christine Battrum Hon OV House Tutor of Oswald, Chemistry teacher, 2000-2018.

Testimonies: Amy Collender (Os 2000-2004) Richard Ball (Hon OV 2002-) She always remained in my memory after Christine accompanied the Upper Remove her dedication to teaching. Mrs. Battrum German exchange to Cologne. As ever taught me that nothing beats good old with her, ‘accompanying’ does not do her hard work. sheer presence justice: practical common sense, full and professional support and Emma Hirons (Ch 2001-2008) utter determination to make the most of She was one of my favourite teachers. opportunities (cultural, social or linguistic) combined with vividly told anecdotes, Ben Rean (Os 2002-2009) great exuberance and total engagement - I have many fond memories of my time at dancing on tables, indulging in whichever King’s in Oswald with Mrs. Battrum as well local custom was available (eating as D of E and many camps. She was always goat in a Greek restaurant in Cologne - so loving and caring and really defined the endless possibilities!) and strengthening King’s ethos. international bonds single-handedly!

Isobel Phillips-Broadhurst (W 2005-2012) Rhiannon Lewis (Hon OV 2002-) Mrs Battrum was an important part of my I remember Christine with great fondness years at school, and I appreciated everything and gratitude for her work on bronze DofE; she did for me. I remember her energy and she was endlessly patient and enthusiastic, Christine Battrum joined The King’s School passion for teaching, and she made me love and fearless in tackling scary (well, I thought Chemistry department in 2000. An Oxford Chemistry. they were, anyway) farmers who sometimes graduate, she spent ten years in the challenged pupils even when they were on agricultural supply industry before turning Jacob Wells (Os 2005-2012) a public footpath … She was wonderful. to teaching. Mrs. Battrum was an incredibly inspirational teacher, she managed to perfectly hit the Emma Claridge (Os 08-15) A formidable teacher who displayed a mark of being great fun … but also stern Mrs Battrum was my tutor for many boundless energy, Mrs. Battrum loved with you when she needed to be, as all the years and helped me get into my dream her subject and challenged pupils to look best teachers do … Her unwavering belief university, Loughborough. Please pass on beyond the confines of the syllabus and in me was so reassuring during the harder my best wishes to her family, and note that to appreciate the importance of Chemistry times and I can’t thank her enough for that. she was such a kind and generous woman in the world around them. She was well- It was an absolute pleasure to have her both that I doubt anyone in Oswald, or the whole known for giving up considerable amounts as my teacher and my Head of House. of King’s School for that fact, will ever forget of time outside lessons to provide extra her. Please let them know that my peers and help: hundreds of pupils benefited from her Tom Sharp (Hon OV 1991-) I will miss her dearly as she affected all of our attention and dedication. She did plenty of lunchtime detentions, to lives for the better. Thank you. the extent that my History students always Mrs. Battrum became House Tutor of seemed to have a pre-existing engagement Oswald House in 2009. She was thereafter with her whenever I attempted to keep known as “Batty” after she introduced them back. They seem to have quite enjoyed herself to pupils as “Batty Battrum” in a get- her detentions! to-know-you session. Pupils in Oswald, and elsewhere, always knew where they stood with Mrs. Battrum: a strict disciplinarian, she writing out the dance routines and words de vivre and compassion. Testimony to her was nevertheless scrupulously fair and had for the chorus numbers, and organised extra popularity and respect are the large numbers an infinite amount of time for everyone. rehearsals and food. of OVs and Hon OVs who contacted King’s to send their condolences to the Battrum Her contributions to extra-curricular Mrs. Battrum was a great friend to the family after her death in 2018. activities, notably with the Duke of School Library; her legacy was the series of Edinburgh Award and sailing, were made extended reading lists for Sixth Formers. This with her characteristic generosity of spirit began in 2013 with her idea for a collection and positive nature. Mrs. Battrum also took of books called “Inspiring Chemists”: a very charge of the chorus line in the 2013 staff keen reader herself, Mrs. Battrum liked to Our next Teacher Feature will be: S.D. Strong pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk. She read “with a purpose”. [KSW Staff 1920-1958]. If you have any threw herself whole-heartedly into her memories of Mr. Strong that you would like own role (a zombie Scary Spice), but also Mrs. Battrum always displayed a wonderful to share, please do contact archives@ksw. found time to organise the rest of the cast, mixture of expertise, professionalism, joie org.uk

Connect 49 I 21 Where are they now?

We love to hear news from around the world and each week we publish an ‘OV of the Week’, to help showcase the diversity of OV activity, to inspire and motivate current pupils and members of the King’s family. If you would like to be our OV of the week please contact us on [email protected]

Rebecca Hardwick (Br 00-05) Lieutenant Colonel Leanne Sheen (W 99-06) Rebecca is establishing (Retired) Nigel Roughton Leanne was a Monitor herself as an exciting (Cr 85-90) at King’s and also operatic soprano in took part in debating, London. She was a At King’s, Nigel was a Young Enterprise and music scholar at King’s member of the Boat worked on the school as a singer, violinist Club, a Prefect and his newspaper, the King’s and recorder player, interest in the Army Herald. regularly performing began as a CCF cadet. in concerts with the Keys society. Rebecca He enjoyed Drama Leanne went to Cambridge to study was heavily involved with the choirs and and appeared in many Modern and Medieval Languages at Girton orchestras – although, her favourite subject productions at Kings, College before completing the Graduate was actually Art. including the first major production in the Diploma in Law and Legal Practice Course John Moore Theatre which was built during at The University of Law. A few years later, Rebecca went on to study Music as a his time as a pupil. Leanne undertook a Master of Laws (LLM) in singer at the University of York, followed by Banking and Finance Law at the University of winning a scholarship to the Royal College Nigel went to the University of the West London while working full-time in practice. of Music in London, and going on to be a of England where he studied Humanities member of the English National Opera and joined Bristol UOTC (University Officer Leanne has spent many years working for ‘Opera Works’ course. During this time, she Training Corps) before teaching for a year international firm, Allen and Overy LLP, was selected to be one of eight Apprentices at a Prep School in Surrey (of which the where she started as a trainee in 2013. She with the internationally acclaimed Headmaster was a former Hawford Lodge is now a Senior Associate in their banking Monteverdi Choir and Orchestras, and has (King’s Hawford) teacher). He entered practice and enjoys working alongside since toured, recorded and performed with Sandhurst in 1994 and was Commissioned colleagues and clients from all over the the ensembles. into the Royal Artillery in 1995, serving for world. She is currently based in London but over 21 years. previously spent over three years working in In the 2018/2019 season Rebecca made her their Frankfurt office. debut at the Royal Opera House, Covent Highlights of Nigel’s Army career include Garden in Mozart’s ‘Le nozze di Figaro’. serving as Aide de Camp to an Army Board More recently, Leanne has been seconded 4* General, 6 operational tours including to Goldman Sachs where she works in their Despite having had a quiet lockdown, Northern Ireland, Iraq and Afghanistan and investment banking division, negotiating Rebecca has been working in Bergen, his time as a Battery Commander where and structuring loans used to finance Norway with the Edvard Grieg Kor and he was privileged to lead his soldiers on various types of real estate across EMEA Bergen National Opera during their operations and to Command HM The such as hotels, windfarms, student and autumn season, including repertoire by Queen’s Guard at Buckingham Palace, St residential accommodation and logistic/ Ligeti, Beethoven and Verdi. When she is in James’s Palace and Windsor Castle. He then office buildings. Leanne really enjoys the London, she sings with the choir of St James’ completed a number of Staff Appointments non-legal side of her work. She mentors Spanish Place, Marylebone. including at the Ministry of Defence and under the REACH (Race Equality and serving as Chief of Staff at the Joint Ground Celebrating Heritage) scheme and is a Her latest news is that she is being funded Based Air Defence Headquarters. training supervisor when in the Allen & to begin a Doctorate in contemporary Overy office. Social mobility and access to vocal performance at the Guildhall School Fittingly, for a military career that began the legal profession is particularly important of Music and Drama, specialising in György in the CCF, Nigel’s final engagement in to her – Leanne was a recipient of a bursary Kurtág’s seminal work ‘Kafka Fragments’ uniform was when he returned to King’s as when at King’s. for soprano and violin. She is very much our Remembrance Speaker in November looking forward to balancing a few more 2015 before retiring from the Army the At work, Leanne interviews as part of years of study with her performing career, following week! Nigel then started a new the graduate recruitment process, which at a time when the Arts industry will slowly career in Business Development working focuses on example scenarios for candidates build back to normal. initially for a small business and latterly for to work through and their potential rather Thales, a global Defence and Technology than prior legal experience. Leanne is also “Versatility is a very important part of being company, where he has been able to draw a Trustee of the King’s School Worcester an artist; I’m very lucky that my career upon his extensive military experience and Development Trust. involves so many different avenues of is the Head, Ground Based Air Defence. singing – choral, opera, contemporary – I Nigel is married with 3 energetic children always keep an open mind. I was at King’s and a Labrador and now lives in South before they allowed girls in the Cathedral Buckinghamshire. choir, so I’m very pleased I ended up becoming a singer anyway!”

22 I Connect 49 Ewen worked for Barclaycard for 15 years, Paul Stevens (H 52-59) He was awarded a Thouron Fellowship to study at the University of Pennsylvania working his way up from Operational Paul’s areas of on a special certificate programme at the Support Manager to Senior Control Design expertise are in Wharton Business School, gaining a Master Manager to Senior Risk and Control vocational guidance of Laws from the Law School. On his return Manager, before taking roles at Capital One and career coaching to the UK Edward took up the Middle and Lloyds Banking Group. Ewen’s work of youth and adults Temple’s Queen Mother Scholarship at Bar has involved developing and embedding and career options School in London before continuing his Operational Risk Management Frameworks analysis, worklife pupillage at XXIV Old Buildings, where he is covering Third Party Assurance, Financial satisfaction and still employed. Crime, Operations & Technology and employability assessments. At King’s, Paul Change & Project Management for UK and was involved in the CCF and was a rowing Edward was appointed a Barrister in 2006 US businesses. cox for 4s and 8s and for the Worcester and has acted in a number of high-profile Ewen is currently an Operational Risk College for the Blind (now New College). cases. In 2016 he was named Chancery Manager for Santander UK and has recently Junior of the year at the Chambers UK Bar completed a Foundation degree at the He was involved in Human Resource Awards. In 2018 he was appointed Queens University of Leicester. Alongside his job, Management in UK, Canada and in Australia Counsel, the youngest QC in the country at he is also studying for a Master’s degree at for 21 years. In 1979, Paul founded Australia’s the time. He has been shortlisted again for a the University of Northampton, and earlier first fee charging career services consultancy Chambers Bar Award in 2020 as a QC. this year set up ‘Overstone Counselling’, for adults, Worklife – The Centre for Worklife to take therapy outdoors and change the Counselling, which he managed until 2005. Lucy Spring (Cl 03-10) perception of counselling. In 1999, Paul became the founder, tuition designer and student tutor for ten years at At King’s, Lucy was The College for Career Practitioners with Head of Chappel Anna Pykett (Os 02 – 09) distance education students in 15 countries. House and played on In addition, he trained over 6,000 people the 1st Hockey and As a pupil at King’s, in career counselling in Sweden, Norway, Tennis teams. Anna was a Monitor Singapore, Malaysia, South Africa, New and was involved in a Zealand and Australia. Lucy went to huge range of activities the University of including playing for Paul has written more than 35 books, Manchester to study the 1st Hockey and guides, texts and workbooks including The International Management which included Netball teams, as Australian Resume Guide, Win That Job!, Stop a year abroad in Hong Kong at The Hong well as representing Postponing the Rest of Your Life, My Third Kong University of Science and Technology Worcestershire as the Age: Work & Life Choices, My Life My Work on a Scholarship of Excellence awarded by county team captain. She was also involved Myself, Career Coaching Guide for Managers, the British Council. in athletics, rounders & swimming and the A Passion for Work: Our Lifetime Affair. King’s Literary Society and Young Enterprise. After graduating, Lucy started her career as Paul has received Special Achievement a Recruitment Consultant for Michael Page After King’s, Anna studied English Literature Awards from several National and in London. She then took a three month at the University of Leeds and then a International Career Development break to travel across South America prior further Postgraduate Diploma in Broadcast Associations. Now he is enjoying retirement to joining Accenture as part of the Analyst Journalism at Birmingham City University. in the country where he has lived since 1965 Consulting Group – a program built to Anna has since worked for major broadcasters residing at Balmoral Beach., N.S.W. support and guide recent graduates / those including the BBC, where she started in local new to consulting during their first 12-18 radio working at BBC Hereford & Worcester, months at the firm. and went on to work all over the country. She Edward Cumming (Br 90-01) spent time working as a TV reporter for BBC Last September Lucy transferred to Toronto, Look North in Leeds and then spent almost Edward joined King’s Canada with Accenture, where she is a for years covering national news for BBC 5live School, having part of Accenture Interactive. Her role radio in Salford. previously been a pupil is focused on leading large-scale digital at King’s St Alban’s. He transformations for a range of clients, with Anna now works for the Australian was a King’s Scholar the ultimate goal being to create seamless Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) in Sydney, (latterly Senior Scholar), end-to-end customer experiences. having moved down under at the start of prefect, monitor and 2019. Her responsibilities include writing, Head of Bright House. and reading live news bulletins to a national He was involved in many extra-curricular Ewen Purcell (Cr 90-93) audience & producing news programmes. activities while at King’s including CCF She spends her time off running or at the (rising to the rank of Company Sergeant), When Ewen was a gorgeous Aussie beaches surfing. Young Enterprise, Drama, The King’s Herald, King’s pupil he took Chess, shooting, football, cross-country and part in CCF, rowing debating, for which he won a number of and rugby, and prizes. represented Creighton House in tug of war. After taking A Levels in Geography, French, He also played the part Maths and Further Maths, Edward won of ‘Leroy’ in the school a place at Dowling College, Cambridge production of Bugsy Malone, where on the to study Law, where he was also elected final night, he remembers Mr Le Marchand President of the Cambridge Union Society. (Hon OV) took the role of the boxer he was supposed to knock out! Connect 49 I 23 Please note our Privacy Notice can be found Foundation Development at: www.ksw.org.uk/alumni/about/ & Alumni Relations alumni-development-privacy-notice/

In the Development & Alumni Relations office at King’s, we enjoy keeping OVs in touch with both the School and each other.

We would love to hear your news. Keep in touch with us. Email : [email protected] Phone: 01905 721737

Liz Elliott née North (Co 82-84) Sophie Borrillo-McLellan Caroline Mitchell-Wise Foundation Development Director Head of Alumni Relations Head of Alumni Relations (Maternity Cover) Liz oversees the At King’s Sophie is Caroline has been Development & Alumni responsible for fostering looking after alumni Relations Office and as and strengthening relations at King’s while an OV herself is incredibly relationships with OVs Sophie is on maternity well placed to do so. Liz and wider members of the leave. Caroline joined the especially focuses her school community. She Development Office from attention on our Open absolutely loves planning our neighbour Worcester the Door to King’s bursary appeal and OV reunions and events and is very happy Cathedral where she was involved in events she is passionate about the impact of life- to hear from anyone who would like to plan and marketing, managing the Cathedral’s changing bursaries. something. At the moment she is enjoying website and social media and a number Contact: [email protected] time with her newest addition whilst on of large scale events throughout the year. maternity leave. Caroline is a current King’s parent. Contact: [email protected] Contact: [email protected]

Foundation Development and Alumni Team Alice Evans Development Assistant Alice enables the smooth and efficient running of the Development Office; taking payments, event bookings, handling social media and also producing our weekly news. Alice is always very pleased to hear your OV news. Contact: [email protected]

Cath Williams Database Assistant Cath looks after the Development and Alumni Relations Office database making sure records are kept updated. Cath has been at King’s since 2012 and also works in the School Office part-time. Contact: [email protected]

Live Aboard?

To all our OVs living outside the UK, we to receive a hard copy of the magazine, Please email us on [email protected] will automatically send you a link via we would be very happy to keep sending or phone 01905 721737 and we will ensure email to read Connect rather than a hard you one. you continue to receive this in the post. copy. If you live abroad and would still like

24 I Connect 49 AVAILABLE FOR SEPT 2021PLACES ENTRY Visit King’s Virtually Adaptability has been at the heart of King’s life visits since their launch last September. We over the last year and whilst teachers and pupils are delighted to share these tours with the OV are adapting to online learning, the Marketing and Community. Grab a coffee, relax, click on our QR Admissions team has been developing interactive Codes to visit your old schools and see how things Virtual Tours, to ensure that prospective families have changed since you left King’s. can continue to view our fantastic facilities. If you, your family or friends would like to discover All three schools now have a 360 degree interactive more, you can join us at one of our forthcoming tour, which have received well over 6,000 combined Open Mornings: www.ksw.org.uk/meetkings

Meet the excited

Award-winning co-education for children 2-11 yrs nestled in rural north Worcester (WR3)

Kindergarten & Prep School Meet the inspired

Co-education for children 2-11 yrs neighbouring King’s Senior in Worcester city centre (WR1)

Nursery & Prep School

Meet the determined

Co-education for pupils 11-18 yrs in the heart of historic Worcester (WR1)

Senior School A Picture Paints a Thousand Words Prospectus 1960s Art Room

KSW OTC Band 1910 Physics Laboratory 1959

2011 Leavers

Biology Laboratory 1959 Castle House at Cricceth June 1940

26 I Connect 49 Cross Country run 1986

Craft Room 1959 Pottery 1952

2016 Scholars

Oswald House 1985 Chemistry Laboratory 1959

Kittermaster Prospectus Biology Laboratory U4D 1997-8

Connect 49 I 27 Upcoming Events All our events may be subject to change...

London Drinks New OV BBQ for 2019,2020 & 2021 10 + 1 year reunion for the year of 2010 Friday 23 April 2021 leavers date tbc 2021 The Bankside Gallery, London, 7-9pm Tuesday 7 September 2021 All OVs are invited to join us for drinks in School Gardens, 4-6pm OV Professions groups Property, Law, London. An excellent opportunity to meet Come and meet your King’s friends and Marketing, Audit & Consultancy with friends and network with other OVs. teachers back in School for an early autumn dates tbc See website for more details. BBQ in the School Gardens At a central London location Open to all OVs working in these professions, 10 year reunion for the year of 2011 5 year reunion for the year of 2016 we hope you will join us in London for Saturday 26 June 2021 Saturday 11 September, 7-9pm 2021 a drink. This is a relaxed opportunity to School Gardens, 12-4pm Michael Baker Boathouse meet OVs working in the same profession. Do come and meet up with your friends Email [email protected] for for more from ten years ago, with tours of School, OV Annual Reunion Dinner information. followed by a BBQ in the School Gardens. Saturday 18 September 2021 The King’s School Worcester School House Lunch OV Reunion - Henley Royal Regatta Come and join us back at King’s for the Monday 4 October Friday 2 July 2021 annual reunion weekend including bubbly Oxford and Cambridge Club We would love to meet any OVs who are brunch, tours of School, the OV Committee For School House OVs in their 70s and 80s. at Henley on this day and also any OV crew AGM, OVCC Cricket match and a black tie Contact [email protected] for more members who competed in the Princess dinner, this is a day not to be missed. information. Elizabeth Cup in 1961.

@OldVigornian Foundation Development and Alumni Relations Office @Old_Vigornians 5 College Green, Worcester, WR1 2LL 01905 721737 [email protected] ksw.org.uk/alumni © 2020 The King’s School Worcester Search for ‘Vigornians’ The King’s School Worcester Development Trust I Registered in England and Wales: Charity Number 527530 I Registered Office: 5 College Green, Worcester, WR1 2LL