ANTARCTIC ADVENTURES TIME OUT WITH OBE OLD AT THE OSCARS WITH LUCY COTTER STOPS’ REVIEW ISSUE 2 2012 Old Stops’ Review | Welcome Old Stops’ Review | Welcome

The prime purpose of a school is WELCOME to broaden the experiences and TO OUR SECOND EDITION horizons of each individual.

n this, the 525th anniversary The prime purpose of a school is The Duke of Edinburgh Award The new Woodsmoor classroom There is no better way to mark this CONTENTS of Shaa’s foundation, it is right to broaden the experiences and programme goes from strength to accommodation is due for completion anniversary year than by celebrating that we reflect on the extent to which horizons of each individual and it strength. Our sports teams have this summer and will give us and promoting the influence of Tom Gare 4 his legacy survives in his home town is easy to underestimate the value enjoyed notable success in national outstanding facilities for the teaching Edmond Shaa’s legacy to future of . Thanks to the support of participation in extracurricular competitions this year, whilst of arts subjects. But we do not build in generations. From the Helm 4 of all sections of the school community activities in fostering personal the recent Model United Nations bricks and mortar alone. Our Bursary Richard Rimmington 5 and the Worshipful Company of development. Conference was a fine example of the campaign seeks to ensure that local Andrew Chicken Lucy Cotter 6 Goldsmiths, Stockport Grammar capacity of our young people to think boys and girls can contribute to and Headmaster Where Are They Now? 8 School is now as successful as it Last term’s spectacular production both for themselves and of others. benefit from the education we offer has ever been – in the number of of Oliver! together with the seasonal irrespective of family circumstances. John Amaechi OBE 10 boys and girls we educate, in terms round of concerts and recitals OS Sport 12 of academic results, in extracurricular demonstrated the wealth of talent Charles Speight 13 sport, music and drama and in the which exists within our school. quality of facilities and working Dr Alex Kumar 14 relations which exist in the school. 525 Years 16 Announcements 17 School Highlights 18 OS Highlights 19 Dates for Your Diary 20

2 Cast of Oliver! 3 Old Stops’ Review | Tom Gare, From The Helm Old Stops’ Review | President of The OSA

In 1992 an All Weather Pitch on the This brings us to the present, with north side of the site, named in the most recent development being memory of Junior School Headmaster due for completion this summer. FROM Richard Reeman, was added. In March This provides a major new teaching 1991, the house immediately to the block located on the site of the original south of the drive on the A6 was Woodsmoor Hall and classrooms bought, enabling the school to add which were demolished in the THE much needed additional car parking. summer of 2010. Full details of this This was followed a little later by the development may be found on the house just to the north and in website. These recent buildings have December 1994, the purchase of 3 all been constructed in a style which HELM Clifton Park Road allowed for further is sympathetic to that of the original expansion of the Junior School. Hallam Buildings of 1916. From 1980 to 2012 – Building a Future for the School In January 1995, the school acquired This programme of land acquisition, Tom Gare President of the OSA 2011-12 The Davenport Theatre from Apollo building and continuous refurbishment Just over 30 years ago, we celebrated Leisure. A year later a major planning over the last 32 years has been an TOM GARE (OS 1957) SHARES the acquisition of the former Convent application was submitted to increase act of faith by the Governors and HIS EXPERIENCES FROM HIS buildings and co-education at the the size of the Junior School still the Senior Management of the school school. However in the period between further, re-orientate the entrance with the support of the teaching YEAR AS PRESIDENT OF THE OSA 1980 and the present day, the school to face the Senior School, and to staff and all members of the school has enjoyed unprecedented growth in extend the car parking facilities community. It has been achieved On leaving the school in the late In a moving dedication we learned both numbers of pupils and resources. on the Woodsmoor site including through prudent financial planning 1950s I automatically became an of the visits of today’s pupils to the Strong financial commitment and an additional entrance on the A6. and good housekeeping and continues Old Stopfordian. I played lacrosse first world war battlefields and strategic planning has seen the further This work was completed in 1998. to facilitate the growth and CHAIRMAN OF for the Old Boys’ teams and cemeteries in Belgium and , expansion of the site and a raft of development of the school. GOVERNORS RETIRES attended the Stopfordian Annual where a wreath was laid on behalf new building. In the autumn of 1999 the Governors Richard Rimmington (OS 1962) Ball held in the . of the school and our association. were able to announce plans to build Records of all aspects of school life was elected onto the Board of More than fifty years later the title This is an annual event worthy of Very little money had been spent on a comprehensively equipped Sports are housed in the Archives and you Governors in April 1992 and has ‘Old Stopfordian’ seems apt. our support. the Convent buildings over the last Hall and Technology Centre, adjacent are always welcome to explore any been Chairman for the past ten years of the previous occupancy and to the Swimming Pool which was areas of interest in greater depth by years. Richard has enjoyed Today, with technological It remains for me to thank my substantial refurbishment was completed by the start of the Autumn initially contacting the External a long and distinguished advances and ease and speed of fellow Stopfordians for their help necessary to conform to planning Term of 2001. Following on from this, Relations Office on 0161 419 2408. association with SGS, which communication, our school is hardly and guidance during the past year regulations and health and safety a new Library and Resource Centre began when he joined the recognisable. Noticeable differences and record my gratitude on the considerations. Even the ‘jewel in the with Physics Laboratories on the floor Best wishes school as a pupil in 1949. are the far greater number of pupils occasions when members of staff at crown’, the Swimming Pool, needed above was opened in 2005. Stuart Helm (OS 1964) and staff, the addition of female the school have smoothed my way. major work on its roof. These Archivist and OSA Membership Secretary He will be succeeded this year, pupils, the considerably wider buildings, however, were able to by Ron Astles, who has been on curriculum and much larger and OSA President 2012/2013 provide substantial accommodation the Board of Governors since continually expanding facilities. Ken Clough was due to take over as for the growing school population in 1993 and has been Vice President at the Old Stops’ AGM in The new Woodsmoor teaching Chairman since 2002. Ron is the initial years. facility nearing completion. I have attended almost all of the April. Unfortunately, Ken has been the Father of Old Stopfordian musical and theatrical performances undergoing medical treatment and In March 1985 the school bought a Christopher Astles (OS 1991) this year. They have been a delight will be unable to assume office this strip of land on the south side of the and was formerly Chief to the ear and eye and confirm the year. All Old Stops wish him well drive known as the ‘Orchard’ and in Superintendent of GMP prior school’s reputation for excellence and very much hope that he will 1986 the Governors approved the to his retirement. in this area. Many performances be able to become President in building of an extension to the Junior WELCOME are a ‘sell out’ well in advance April 2013. School and a new Bursary, Kitchens We will be running a full article and I recommend them to all and 400 seat Dining Hall which were We are delighted on Richard in the next issue of Old Stopfordians. Meanwhile, we are grateful to Paul Old Stops’ Review. We would like completed in early 1987, the year of to welcome our new Carr who, following a unanimous the Quincentenary. to take this opportunity to thank On 11th November 2011 more request by past presidents on the Alumni Assistant, Maili Lavin him for his dedication to SGS. than one hundred former pupils committee, has stepped into the Next, a further programme was (OS 2008) and guests joined current pupils breach and taken on the presidency announced to build new Geography and staff in the Main Hall for the for this year. Paul has returned to rooms and Chemistry laboratories, annual Service of Remembrance live in the area after being based a further Sixth Form Common Room, and a 1930s to 1950s Old down south for a number of years a Design Technology centre and an Stopfordians reunion. where he served the Association Exhibition Room to be housed around on the committee of the London a new courtyard adjacent to the Branch, acting for some years as Dining Hall. These welcome additions Branch Secretary. were opened in September 1991.

4 5 Old Stops’ Review | Lucy Cotter Old Stops’ Review | Lucy Cotter REACHING FOR THE SKY

Lucy Cotter (OS 1998) Is there such a thing as What do you love most is the Sky News Arts and a typical day for an Arts about your job? Entertainment Correspondent. Correspondent? I love the variety of my job and I love The huge appeal of my job is that live television – it is always exciting, She has the enviable job of covering every day is different. When I was as well as nerve-wracking and the major award ceremonies and covering the Oscars I was getting up stressful. I get to interview people red carpet events including the at 5.30am to report live into our 5pm who are at the top of their game and Oscars, Baftas and Brits and securing (British time) programme. We would I research and talk about the arts and interviews with the world’s most then go off filming for the rest of day. culture every day. influential artists. We interviewed an Executive at Who has been your favourite After leaving SGS, Lucy studied Universal and had a tour around the interview? Psychology, Sociology and Politics at sets, we interviewed Harvey Weinstein George Clooney – I’ve interviewed him Cambridge University followed by a and spoke to all the British nominees three times and he never fails to postgraduate diploma in Broadcast at the British Consulate. Each day impress – what’s not to like!! He even Journalism. would end with editing our packages said “yes” when I proposed to him on and finally getting to bed at about the red carpet! I’d love to interview Lucy, please cast your mind 11pm for it all to start again the next Nelson Mandela. back to your days at SGS... day! The actual day of the Oscars was My fondest memories of Stockport crazy; live broadcasts for Sky News What is the most interesting Grammar School are Biology lessons and Sky Movies from 8.30am till 2pm place your job has taken you? with Mrs Bridges and English lessons from the Red Carpet and then the I’ve now done the Oscars four with Mr Howson who is one of the celebs start arriving. We then had to times which is always fascinating – most inspiring teachers I’ve ever had. turn round a package for our Breakfast Hollywood is like no-where else Psychology with Mrs Braude was also Show at 6am British Time. during awards season. great and I went on some brilliant trips to Salcombe. When I’m in London, I’m on the sofa However while I was working for with Eamonn Holmes at Breakfast Granada, I did an investigation into I think SGS gave me the confidence to talking about the big entertainment gangs in New York, visited gang interact with whoever I come across in or Arts story of the day and then members in prison in New Jersey and whatever sphere of life, it also gave I’ll either shoot a story or report filmed in the Bronx with an ex-gang me discipline to work independently live from a première or event that leader – fascinating and quite scary! and made me ambitious to go for what evening. My hours are very varied I want to achieve. as are the stories I cover, from What does the future hold? Whitney Houston’s death (when I was Well I’m getting married in August called in at 1am and finally went home in Wilmslow so there’s lots of about 6pm) to covering the Lucian planning ahead…. Freud Exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery. Work wise – my role has recently been extended from Entertainment Correspondent to Arts and Entertainment Correspondent so I’m looking forward to doing more stories

on the arts. Sky is a great place to – Lucy recently work with lots of opportunities and visited the school I’m hoping to have a long and varied to help First and Second Year career in broadcasting both in News I think SGS gave me pupils with the school newspaper and beyond if the opportunities arise! and to talk to Upper School pupils the confidence to about a career in journalism. This was an incredibly informative and insightful interact with whoever visit, and staff and pupils alike were extremely grateful to her for sparing the time to talk I come across in to budding journalists of the future. whatever sphere of life.

6 7 Old Stops’ Review | Where are they now? Old Stops’ Review | Where are they now? RUNNING THE NEW YORK MARATHON WHERE Helen Gemmel (OS 2004) tells of Bobsleigh Silver won

her experience: Louise Webster (OS 2008) ARE Running a marathon was something a silver medal and the trophy for I had always believed simply required Best Female Novice Driver in the 2011 application. A case of keep putting British Bobsleigh Championships in Germany last October. one step in front of the other, and just THEY keep on going. Since being commissioned as an officer in the RAF in The 26.2 miles of the New York 2009, Louise has been continuing her training as an air NOW? Marathon (and every mile in training) traffic controller and is now based at RAF Waddington, proved my simple theory to be very Through fundraising nights and Lincoln, home toreconnaissance RAF air command assets. surveillance and wrong. The experience required both sponsorship, I raised over £3,600 physical and mental strength, for the fabulous charity Get Kids HONORARY CANONSHIP combined with 3 pairs of trainers, Going!, which supports access to It was while representing the RAF in an athletics sprinting event in 2010 that she was spotted Andrew Braddock (OS 1989) has multiple packs of compeed, litres of and involvement in sport for by the RAF bobsleigh coach, with her been installed as an honorary Canon energy drink, and a very patient disabled children. speed and agility making her a good of Gloucester Cathedral in recognition training partner! Having so much candidate for the sport. of his ministry as Diocesan Missioner, support back in the UK helped get The six bridges on the NY marathon a post he has held since 2006. me though the wall (at mile 19, in course are not something I will Prior to that, Andrew was Rector of the Bronx!), and enjoy every minute be looking to repeat, but, having Cringleford, Norfolk, and rural Dean of the last 4 miles through Central reignited my love for running, in the Diocese of Norwich. Andrew Park, finishing in a time of 4hrs 20. I have signed up for London 2013!” is married to Victoria and they have two children, Benedict and Beatrice. FAITH, HOPE AND THERAPY whose exhibition of sculptures, Faith, Hope and Therapy: Counselling Obliquity, at New York’s Charles with St Paul is Dr Roger Grainger’s Bank Gallery last year was a (OS 1951) latest book to be published. massive success which saw all A Parish Minister and Chartered of his pieces sold. Counselling Psychologist, Dr Roger NEUROLOGICAL RESEARCH ON THE MOVE Grainger works in the secular world ANOTHER ERA Rob Pitceathly (OS 1997) studied Old Stopfordian Charlie Baker every day. His book is based upon his Malcolm L. Hall (OS 1936 and LENDING TO THE Medicine at St Andrew’s University (OS 2007) has been appointed non-religious work with a number of Former Governor) wrote to us ROYAL ACADEMY before working as a junior doctor as a designer at luxury yacht his clients, each of whom has a unique from his home in Tenerife Georgina Cohen (OS 1994), in Manchester. He has since architects Pastrovich Studio. story and the need to discover their with his memories of a much studied History of Art and Design at specialised in the field of Neurology true paths in life. Dr Grainger smaller school divided into Manchester University and is now and has recently decided to further Claire Hamilton (OS 1990) was demonstrates how his faith was two streams, and German, a Director at Gagosian Gallery, sub-specialise in neurological diseases made Deputy Head at The Ryleys informed and illuminated by these a ‘highly qualified and dedicated London and private art collector affecting muscles. School in Alderley Edge in 2010 encounters. Through these stories, group of masters’ and his best in her own right. after holding the post of Head of he seeks to offer models to anyone friends Jack Sugden and He is currently involved in clinical Science and ICT for 13 years. HOME SWEET HOME seeking to change his or her way of Bert Sidebottom. Disputes research at the National Hospital Earlier this year, she loaned Sara Turner (née Margolis) doing things. between boys were settled of Neurology and Neurosurgery in a piece by acclaimed John Shackleton (OS 1973) (OS 1998) is co-director of Rosi in the boxing ring and tram London, where he is seeking to contemporary American artist, retires this year. An Old Interiors based in Altrincham. A SONG FOR EUROPE monitors kept order on the identify new genetic causes for Sterling Ruby from her Stopfordian, who returned to SGS The company are Interior David Mort, former Head of French, journeys to and from school. mitochondrial disorders, a rare collection to an exhibition to teach for six years (1977-83), Designers with a retail showroom. has had his debut novel A Song for Malcolm was a keen member type of muscle disease. entitled Generation Y John played lacrosse for the Old The business comprises many Europe published. The story tells of of the drama group run by at the Royal Stops and , was President different interior design elements, Pete, a 1960s failed pop musician History teacher “Johnny” Rob hopes to continue combining Academy of the Old Stops in 1991 and is with jobs ranging from full and 1990s loser, who ends up getting Johnston and remembers clinical and research work in the of Arts. married to Isy who also taught project-management of the involved in an Eastern European the consternation caused future and would be happy to talk at SGS for ten years. John has interior of a new-build to single Eurovision Song Contest bid. by his appearance in a frock to any Old Stops studying medicine, Sterling Ruby Stalagmite/ travelled the country and has room schemes involving curtains, as the wife of the Prime who are interested in following a Icolagnia 2008 been a Head in four different carpets, wallpaper and upholstery. Sex, drugs, rock and roll, high-level Minister in George Bernard similar path. independent preparatory schools. With no two days being the same, international political intrigue and Shaw’s On the Rocks. His current Headship, which takes Sara tends to split her time between low-level farce ensure the book Malcolm’s fascinating and Visit the website for him upto his retirement is at being on site with clients and gets 5 star reviews from Amazon personal recollections are more Old Stops’ Updates Hallfield School in Edgbaston. contractors and working in customers. The book’s cover was available in full on the the showroom. designed by David’s son and Old school website. Stopfordian Dan Mort (OS 1998), 8 9 Old Stops’ Review | John Amaechi Old Stops’ Review | John Amaechi

so if someone is shy then they have That is a rewarding part of what I do. I’m writing it with a friend of mine low self esteem and the two things are I also love working with organisations, who is a Doctor of Education. The HOLDING COURT not necessarily related, so what I helping them with, say, HR issues or other thing is, I want to be in the focus on is this idea of self efficacy, a leadership training – that is great too, House of Lords. I’ve decided. John Amaechi OBE (OS 1989) I was fortunate enough to have a were ripping out all the old stuff that precurser to self esteem. You have to but this one-on-one work, it can be is an organisational consultant coach there who really looked after me hadn’t worked and trying to make it believe that you are capable of quite revelatory for people just I think whether you believe there and high-performance coach. and wanted me to be remarkable, so into something new. Since then I’ve achieving your goals, being a proactive hearing back their own words and should be an elected House of Lords He is a New York Times best- by the end of that year I had offers been involved in an advisory capacity agent, rather than somebody who life being prompted to think differently. or not, I happen to think that if you selling author and former NBA from a few different colleges. I did my – I’m on the Board, along with Paul ‘does stuff to’. You can have different Yesterday I was with a young look at the new crop of people coming basketball player. research and picked the one that Deighton (the CEO), Baroness Tanni temperaments, that can be affected by footballer in London. It is remarkable in, they’re increasingly people who offered the course I wanted and Grey Thompson and a number of other your socialisation, whether it be your to sit for two hours with someone who reflect the diversity of the John was awarded the OBE in 2011 combined strong academic support people. We are critical advocates so school and parents or sports clubs and is having revelation after revelation real world. for his ongoing involvement in with excellent basketball training. we are there to oversee everything in the peer groups you hang out with, (not prompted by me so much) but charitable work with young people, terms of procurement, service your socio-economic status, how just from me repeating back what Floella Benjamin is in the House of equality and minorities over the years After college you were offered a provision, volunteering... and so on. secure you feel financially... all these he is saying. I think that is a great Lords.. she’s a Liberal Democrat peer. and services to Sport as a player and contract with Orlando Magic and We aim to ensure they haven’t missed things impact on how much you think thing, whether it be in sport or Tanni Grey Thompson is a really good also since retirement. John took time you then went on to receive offers a perspective and that there won’t be you can control your world versus it business or whatever. friend of mine and she is a cross out of his busy schedule to talk to PR from a number of big teams, not any horrible surprises along the way, controlling you. bench peer. She’s been in there on the & Communications Officer, Tamara least the LA Lakers, from whom so that no-one is asking “why didn’t It’s a real eye-opener for people to Welfare Reform leading the way on Shneck about what makes him tick. you famously turned down a very you think of this?” afterwards. The people who tend to achieve great be in a situation where they get to wheelchair accessibility as they used attractive offer. things are those who believe that just talk and talk without judgement to have steps everywhere! Then you John, you knew from age Having been involved in the That was an incredibly difficult they are the type of person, despite and someone else absorbs that and have Waheed Alli, who’s a gay Muslim seven that you wanted to be Beijing Olympics, do you see any decision. I wanted to go to The evidence to the contrary perhaps, bounces it back in the right way. It’s Labour peer and you suddenly realise a psychologist, so where did progress in the acceptance of Lakers; I love the team, the coach who can be remarkable. Ozwald brilliant – it’s why I love being a that the new people coming in are your desire to play basketball ethnic minorities and the gay and I am still friends with some of the Boateng for example, who comes psychologist, it’s like being a Jedi. representative of us and I would like come from? community in the sporting world? players. It would have been a perfect from first generation immigrant It really is the best thing in the very much to add my ‘oddness’ to I was walking down Market Street with fit for me because I love LA (I lived LOCOG (London Organising Committee parents – what are the chances that world, it’s amazing. The House of Lords. But you know a steak slice in my hand and a man there for a number of years) but at of the Olympic and Paralympic Games) he goes on to own a fashion house in that will take a decade, so it’s a very came up to me and said “do you want the same time I bang on about being has done a remarkable job because the middle of London’s Saville Row? You’ve crammed so much into long term plan... to play basketball?” and I said “yes”. a man of principles, and most of the they have been very explicit with how People like him, who despite the fact your 41 years. Do you have any You never know what decisions in life time when our principles are tested welcome people must be made; LGBT, that they are poor, a minority, come ambitions yet to fulfil? are going to be pivotal but that was it is about letting someone else have black, Asian and ethnic people in from an unlikely background, have Yes, several! My first book(The Man certainly one. The moment I decided the last bottle of milk in the corner sport, women in sport, disabled people had it instilled in them that they can in The Middle) was a New York Times to play basketball I decided to play at shop, or giving up the last car parking in sport... you name it we’ve got a pin do great things and that’s what my bestseller but just did not fly in this the highest possible level. I don’t space whereas, in this case I picked for it. This has never happened before mum did for me, for all our family. country at all. It was an autobiography really do things by halves so I decided the team that had given me my and symbols like the rainbow flag are I remember one particular teacher in the very purest sense in that it I was going to be the best basketball opportunity in the NBA when nobody being allowed to be associated with at SGS, my Biology teacher, Mr Gregg had no dominant theme within it. player ever and play in the NBA. I else wanted to hire me. the Olympic rings. This has never been who was amazing and always made Maybe that’s part of the problem knew I wasn’t good enough to go allowed and now they are, which is a me feel like whatever I wanted to – maybe that’s why it didn’t sell as straight to an American university The year The Lakers approached me, big deal. LOCOG itself is an incredibly do I could do. I was lucky to have much as I would have hoped. because I needed a scholarship and there were 17 teams that wanted to progressive organisation – more than someone like that. I’m writing two more books now... there is a draft system for the NBA. offer me a job and pay me a large 50% of the staff are women and it’s One is a very dry academic book I knew I needed extra time to catch salary but the Orlando Magic were made up of a much higher percentage Your current career has many that will be read by seven professors up as I’d only been playing for a few the only team that would take me of minority ethnic people than you different facets. How do you possibly! The other is a more years. I wrote 3000 letters to the year before so I stayed with them. would expect in a sporting manage to juggle it effectively motivational type of... I hesitate to American high schools and this was And that’s what principles are: doing organisation. and what do you enjoy most? say... self help book, but that type before email! I wrote “Hi my name’s the right thing even when it is I’m told I have a portfolio career. of idea. John Amaechi. I’m 6‘7” and I want to incredibly painful. You co-authored a paper on self I quite enjoy working with the BBC play basketball – are you interested?” esteem, goal setting and and doing the punditry bit...I do the I received three replies and one of Having now retired from personality. Would you say self newspapers on Saturdays and the schools that replied was St Basketball, you are involved esteem, and drive are things you Sundays and I sit on the couch a lot Johns, Toledo. with London 2012, among many were born with or something in the morning and talk about various other things. you’ve had to work on? issues from the perspective of a My family were able to afford one I was a part of the bid from the very One helps the other, though I think psychologist which is fun, but its return flight and to support me for beginning, which seems like a long fundamentally people misunderstand vacuous – it’s not really work! just one year over there. I took with time ago now. I showed the IOC what self esteem is, because it has Then in my ‘dayjob’ I have a small me £100 for my host family’s around some of the venues but I become one of those things that we pool of elite individuals from lots of birthdays and other essentials and I actually picked the short straw use in everyday language now, different backgrounds who I work with knew that if I didn’t make it to college, because I had to show them around, to help them go from being good to if I didn’t get a scholarship I would what was then The Dome, when they very good or great. be back in England in a year.

10 Old Stops’ Review | OS Sport Old Stops’ Review | Charles Speight 1987 QUINCENTENARY CHARLES SPEIGHT TEAM REUNITE OS SPORT Danny Adamson (OS 1988) (OS 1944) tells us all about it: OS LACROSSE REPORT Each passing year makes securing by Richard Griffiths the future of the club more WAS INTERVIEWED Two blokes met in a pub twenty (OSA Secretary) demanding, but the loyal Old Stops BY THE BBC LAST nine years ago, aside of enjoying The season draws to a close at the who continue to play lacrosse are a a couple of pints, they discussed time of writing, with relegation tribute to the spirit that lies at the NOVEMBER FOR A an appropriate way of celebrating unlikely but a possibility. The current heart of the club. their school’s forthcoming league structure has seen Old Stops in SERIES OF BROADCASTS Quincentenary. Luckily for us, a division of eight teams in which four If you are interested in getting DURING REMEMBRANCE those two chaps were Len have been in contention for the top involved, please do get in touch Kynaston and Steve Dunn. That two slots, whilst the remaining four via the Alumni Assistant, Maili Lavin. WEEK. HIS STORY IS evening they came up with the have been battling to avoid relegation. idea of a World Rugby Tour. Four Trips to Newcastle, Liverpool and CAMBRIDGE NOW ALSO TO BE years on and after a huge amount Nottingham have produced valuable UNDERGRADUATES PLAY INCLUDED IN THE of planning and fundraising, the victories, but results against Mellor, VARSITY RUGBY two coaches and twenty six , Norbury and Brooklands first The 2011 prestigious Rugby Union BRITISH LEGION’S immensely lucky lads embarked teams have generally highlighted the Varsity Match at Twickenham featured on what was to be a trip of a gulf in abilities between the two halves two Old Stopfordians in the Cambridge PROGRAMME FOR lifetime visiting California, Hawaii, of the division. University side. Steve Townend (OS Australia and New Zealand. 2009) started the game at fly-half SCHOOLS. The club has been pleased to have Phil while Mathonwy Thomas (OS 2007), Twenty five years on, seventeen Hall turning out on a regular basis and a regular in the centre for the team of the squad, including Len and there have been welcome appearances this season, started on the bench Steve met up to commemorate from other younger Old Stops. before joining his team on the pitch Here, Charles recalls his the tour. The school very kindly However, there is still a reliance on 65 minutes in. supplied food and drink for the several of the “old brigade” and the experiences whilst deployed occasion along with the 1st XV club was devastated by the sudden The match, a regular fixture between pitch for a spot of touch rugby. and untimely death of Colin Hibbert Oxford and Cambridge since 1872, in Palestine by the RAF in All things considered, the last October. Colin had played for the was screened live on Sky Sports 1. 1948, following World War II. standard of rugby was fair and club for well over thirty years and But unfortunately for our boys, Oxford collectively we only pulled four continued to be both a key defender was the winning side this time around. I was a pupil at SGS during the last I was just about ready to finish when Unfortunately we were then ambushed hamstrings with just the one on the pitch and a vital inspiration Steve and Mathonwy are two of four war and not long after leaving, I went there was a huge explosion from a and kidnapped on this journey and we requiring A&E! After the rugby we administratively in getting players to Old Stops who have captained their into the RAF like so many others. mine detonated from the side of the had the misfortune to lose a vehicle, made our way, via the Jolly Sailor, turn out each Saturday. He is much colleges at Cambridge in recent years. After training in England I went out track. This completely wrecked the all our guns and ammunition but it to Hall for dinner and an missed, but there has almost been a Alongside Steve (Downing College) to the Middle East, and found myself coach I had been in minutes before was not practicable to argue with evening of merriment. Speeches, resultant desire to maintain the club’s and Mathonwy (St John’s), Matthew in what was then Palestine. I had quite and killed almost all of the thirty armed men looking down the wrong prize giving, singing and a little vibrancy in his memory. Jones (OS 2008) has captained an unexpected welcome to the occupants inside. This was the second end of a gun. We were eventually drinking prevailed as many fond Queens’ College while Christien country. I went by road to Port Said largest loss of life in one incident, after released and finished our journey memories were recollected. Full Mott has led the Churchill team. marks to PJ Mycock for instigating and crossed the Suez canal to Kantara the explosion of the King David Hotel before I was transferred to hospital the reunion and many thanks to where I joined a train with about a in Jerusalem the previous year. in Jerusalem. That was my welcome everyone for making the effort to hundred other servicemen heading to Palestine on Sunday 29th February attend, whether they travelled from Egypt to Lydda. We left at The next few hours were spent in a – a day to remember. The next from Switzerland, , Australia midnight and I spent the first two clearing-up operation and later, those week we faced a Court of Inquiry or Bramhall! hours on guard at the end of one of of us remaining joined the front part investigating the loss of a vehicle and the coaches and after a short nap, did of the train which was still intact and our rifles and eventually found to be Those present were - another two hours from 4am to 6am. finished the journey. The station was not guilty! Len Kynaston, Steve Dunn, a scene of chaos; I was on my way to Tony Carlin, Ian Milner, Peter The passengers at the front of the join 651 AOP Squadron but nobody I fortunately found and joined my unit Mycock, Matthew Birt, Danny train were civilians and the troops knew where it was so I joined half a a few days later, where I remained Adamson, Steve Graham, Phil were in the last three coaches. dozen airmen who had arrived at the until May 1948. Next I was stationed Browne, Alistair Birt, Mark (Zippy) We were scheduled to make a station and were going back to in Egypt and then the final year was Simpson, Paul (Blob) Howarth, refreshment stop at Gaza but the Kolundia near Jerusalem. spent in Tripoli, Libya. I returned to Colin Nevitt, Andrew Gregg, NAAFI had been destroyed by the England in July 1949 and left the RAF Steve Foster, Dominic Huxley Jewish resistance so the train did the following month. and Sasha Howell (pictured right). not stop. I therefore went to the restaurant car on my own and left my kit and rifle in the care of the others in my coach.

12 13 Old Stops’ Review | Alex Kumar Old Stops’ Review | Alex Kumar A YEAR IN ANTARCTICA

Dr Alexander Kumar And as a team, you deal with any How long are you there for? What has been your most What is your fondest memory Advice to anyone wishing to (OS 2001) is currently problem that arises. You have to. You There is a phrase which sums up hair-raising experience so far? of your time at SGS? follow in your footsteps stationed in Antarctica where could be living a science fiction novel. Antarctic travel, which is so often Just recently, we were flying in a 1942 We went on a lacrosse tour of the East As John Lennon said, ‘Life is what he is running physiological delayed due to weather. ‘This Is Basler DC-3 (Douglas) plane. In a Coast of USA. I have since been back happens to you whilst you are busy and psychological research In fact, the station we live in, called Antarctica’, abbreviated to TIA. plane made before even Macdonald- for medicine there – to Johns Hopkins making other plans’. Or Ernest projects on behalf of the ‘Concordia’, was designed with this In other words... if you need to travel Douglas came about – when it was University and other places and fondly Hemmingway, ‘I don’t just live life, European Space Agency’s concept in mind. It most closely today, try tomorrow or next week. just Douglas! We were landing in 30 recall being beaten again and again by I bite big chunks out of it’. human spaceflight and mimics in its conception and design, a With this in mind, I should be heading knot cross-winds on sea-ice, near to the Americans. After all, lacrosse is a exploration programme. model for a station that would be built home sometime between November Terra Nova Bay. As the plane skimmed North American game. But whichever way you look at life, The research is aimed on the surface of another planet, for 2012 and January 2013. Overall I will the mountains – I have a great photo enjoy it. Help others. I have seen towards a future manned example, Mars. Even the buildings we spend around one year down here. of one wing, on the right side, pointing I spent a lot of time in the library. a great deal of the struggle in life, mission to Mars. live in are cylindrical in shape, so as to into the sky and the left wing, where I I remember there was an old wooden abroad. In Africa, Asia and more – fit inside a space rocket. It’s quite Over-wintering in Antarctica is a was sat, pointing well and truly into plinth which held a copy of the the Amazon back to the Arctic – you Tell us what brings you to the incredible. completely unique experience. On the the ground. We made it, but only just. ‘Comprehensive Times Atlas of the name a place – believe me, it’s there Antarctic? one hand it scares the life out of you. The yaw (or sideways rotation/ pitch) World’. It’s different to the concise and sometimes you don’t have to look Terra incognitia. For me it’s the history More importantly for me, it’s about And on the other, invigorates your soul of the plane must have been 30 version, mainly in size. The very hard. Appreciate what you have. of this unique, unmapped continent. natural sciences. Studying medicine – challenging nature, pushing the degrees or so. It was a spectacular comprehensive edition is huge, And live as if one day, it might well 100 years ago, Scott died here and you are taught to look inward. But I limits of science and living where no sideways landing that may as well allowing you to immerse yourself in all be gone. Stop wanting to win the Shackleton was about to make his have always looked out and upwards. life exists. have been upside down. the world. If you have a teenager lottery. In my mind, we already have famous escape – probably the single – buy a copy for them. It’s inspiring. – being born into a soft cotton wool best example of leadership and We are lucky to have the clearest What is the most important I still have a trip around Scotland to upbringing in the UK, relative to a survival in human history. It’s planet night sky on the planet Earth’s lesson you have learnt so far? do that I planned on that atlas, having struggle in a developing world country Earth’s most extreme environment surface, which means you can look, Always wear two sets of gloves, traced it out on a piece of paper. In – trying to beat the inevitability of the and the only continent in which with your naked eye, in the height of otherwise you’ll lose your fingers. the past ten years since leaving school under 5 years old child mortality rate. humans have no natural place. mid-winter, directly into the Milky Way Always wear two pairs of socks, I gained my medical degree, and It took me sometime to get to this Galaxy. In fact it’s close to what the otherwise you’ll lose your toes. additional degree in International point of view, but now I am here, And yet here we are, a party of Hubble Telescope can view in clarity. Attach a piece of fishing line to a Health, and I have travelled and life is a lot simpler. thirteen Europeans, where I am the With some of the astronomical golf ball, and paint it a colour other worked in over 60 countries, and have only British person, living, surviving, equipment we have here, we are able than white, otherwise you’ll never completed many journeys I planned to You can follow Alex’s adventures at up here at 3800 metres altitude to carry out cutting edge research. find it in the snow. areas I found whilst wandering around www.AlexanderKumar.com in the Antarctic Plateau, the world’s For example, one project searches in that atlas. Back then, I just left my largest desert, with temperatures the night sky for Exoplanets – planets Don’t listen to Italians, instead watch mind free to wander. Now I let my He is also keen for you to email him at as low as minus 80 degrees Celsius, most like our own that could harbour their hands – what they are saying is body do the rest. [email protected] the coldest temperatures recorded and support life. Imagine, not only all in their hand movements. And in in world history, and with four months being able to find and name new stars line with World War II propaganda... of 24 hour complete darkness with each and every night, but also name Keep Calm and Carry On. no opportunity for rescue of any sort. your own planet: Planet Concordia Outside there is a flat, white and perhaps, or maybe Planet Kumar. featureless horizon. For me, this is another reason why I came here – this is the closest you can come to living on another planet. The isolation is real. On the one hand it scares the life out of you, and on the other, it invigorates your soul.

14 15 Old Stops’ Review | 525 Years Old Stops’ Review | Announcements CELEBRATING ANNOUNCEMENTS IN MEMORY In memory of Old Stopfordians who When he retired from the board 525 YEARS have recently passed away. in 1996 he commented: BIRTHS “ My gratitude encompasses everyone, Theo Edgar Stuart Pitceathly Alan Kershaw (OS 1942) particularly the ever devoted born 30th June 2011, son of This year marks 525 years since Later that month, the Junior School This special year is also being marked 12th June 2011 staff, thinking parents and most Rob Pitceathly (OS 1997) and the school was founded by Sir put on their first musical written with a fundraising initiative to support A very distinguished Old Stopfordian importantly the pupils who have Debbie Bertfield. Edmund Shaa, who was the Mayor entirely in-house – Clusical The the Bursary scheme, which helps and former Chairman of Governors, made my journey so worthwhile. of London and Prime Warden of the Musical. Not satisfied with his starring children from all backgrounds join the Alan Kershaw sadly passed away in I would do it all again!” Samuel Joel Turner born Goldsmiths’ Company. role as Fagin in Oliver!, Sixth Former school and fulfil their potential through the Isle of Man on the 12th June 2011. 3rd June 2011 son of Laura Ollie Mills wrote the music and lyrics an education at SGS. Mr Kershaw retired from the Board Mr Kershaw was a member of the Wolfe (OS 1991) and Anthony A year of celebrations was launched for this original show in collaboration of Governors of Stockport Grammar OSA, served for a period of 7 years as Turner and brother to Natan (6). in February, with a Gala Concert at with Drama teacher Mrs Alison For more information on how you can School in 1996 after serving for Secretary and was President in 1972 the Royal Northern College of Music. Sullivan. The production, a comedic support this campaign, please contact 24 years, 19 of which were in the – 1973. He was elected as distinguished The Chorus and Chamber Choir murder-mystery full of eccentric the External Relations team capacity of Chairman. He was a life member in 1994. Following his MARRIAGES delighted the audience with a characters, boasted polished externalrelations@ pupil at the school from 1936 to retirement, he and his wife Hilary Matthew Barnes (OS 1995) performance in collaboration with performances from Year 6 pupils, who stockportgrammar.co.uk 1942, and followed his studies at moved to live in the Isle of Man. married Anna Richardson-Owen Sinfonia and Chorale that will surely go on to star in the Senior Stockport Grammar School with an in Grange-over-Sands in surpassed all expectations. School productions in years to come. open scholarship to Southampton Sara Pilkington (OS 2009) May 2011. University College. 28th February 2012 This was swiftly followed by a fantastic On May 2nd, Old Stops, Governors, Sara was a much loved member Richard Hicks (OS 1984) sell-out Senior School production of supporters of the school and After qualifying in spherical maths, of the school community, widely celebrated a civil partnership Oliver! that ran over four nights in representative staff and pupils navigation, celestial and terrestrial respected for her intellectual ability ceremony with Nik Rushworth March. From cast, chorus and attended a reception at the prestigious navigation, Mr Kershaw quickly saw and her outstanding musical talent. in May 2011. orchestra, to backstage, technical and Goldsmiths’ Hall in London, in service at sea, firstly on North Atlantic She made a marvellous contribution marketing teams, the production saw celebration of the school’s long convoy duty and later, in the far east. to the life of the school and was a Matthew Patrick Hanson 180 pupils from First Year through to association with the Goldsmiths’ good friend and unfailing source of Following a period on the east coast of (OS 2004) married Upper Sixth involved in a seamless Company. Italy, he was present at the Japanese support to pupils of all ages. Charlotte Mann in and highly energetic show. surrender of Hong Kong in August A bright light to very many, Sara Shrewsbury in August 2011. 1945 and with the Australian special will have a lasting influence on her services in Hiroshima shortly after friends and colleagues at Stockport the atomic bomb was dropped. Grammar School. 1946 – 1947 saw Mr Kershaw on active service in Palestine. Colin Hibbert (OS 1972) Friday 28th October The Navy behind him, he dedicated his working life to 42 years in the textile Kenneth John Tate (OS 1962) and garment manufacturing business, September 2011 setting up his own company in 1967 and retiring as chairman in 1991. Frank Walton (OS 1947) A keen sportsman, Mr Kershaw played August 2011 both club and representative rugby DO YOU HAVE AN

football in Lancashire and Bristol. Bert Woodhouse (OS 1935) ANNOUNCEMENT? 23rd November 2011 Why not tell us all about it? During his time on the Board of Send in your story and help to Governors, he saw Stockport contribute to future issues. Grammar School move to independent status following the 1974 government announcement of the phasing out of the direct grant system. In 1980, as Chairman, he oversaw the change to co-education and the doubling in size of the school over the following 10 years.

16 17 Old Stops’ Review | Highlights Old Stops’ Review | Forthcoming events , OS Highlights

Twenty two Sixth Formers experienced At about 100 miles long and, in places, INTO AFRICA an unforgettable summer when they over 500 metres deep, the initial trek A SELECTION flew to to spend a month through Fish River Canyon took five exploring the country and working days, with pupils carrying their own to help a school in the tiny village food and resources whilst avoiding the OF HIGHLIGHTS of Dordabis. wild horses, baboons and scorpions. FROM THE PAST YEAR After arriving in the country’s capital, The highlight of the expedition for Windhoek, pupils split into teams and many was the week spent in a set off on their journeys, accompanied pre-primary school in Dordabis, by school staff and expedition leaders. where the pupils embarked on a NATIONAL CALL-UPS maintenance project and played with OXBRIDGE DOZEN The Hockey First XI the children from the local townships. Twelve pupils have celebrated The Hockey First XI capped a First XI goalkeeper, Martha Watson offers from Oxford and tremendous season by winning the (pictured below) fought stiff Trekking in the Naukluft mountains, Cambridge universities for Schools Under- competition, through rigorous trials, abseiling and encountering even more courses that include Medicine, 18s Tournament at the end of the to be awarded representative honours types of wildlife in Etosha National Law, Archaeology & Spring Term. for the England Under-18 squad. Park were other activities enjoyed Anthropology, Music and during the month-long trip. Chemical Engineering. Earlier in the season the team had made it to the National Semi-Finals, The pupils have all managed to narrowly missing a place in the Finals combine academic success with after being defeated on penalties. well-rounded achievement in In further good news for the sport, other areas such as music and sport, including Oxford-bound Head Boy, Harry Allport, who also captains the school’s First XI football team. Martha has worked Last year Stockport Grammar tirelessly not only OS HIGHLIGHTS School was identified by the on her goal-keeping REMEMBRANCE DAY Donors and legators are also invited Sutton Trust as one of 10 schools techniques but also 1980S REUNION nationally having a significantly Over 100 Old Stops attended the each May to a special reception and A sudden downpour didn’t dampen the higher acceptance rate to her fitness to ensure annual school Remembrance Service. tour of the annual Art exhibitions. enthusiasm of former pupils and staff university than other institutions that she stood out at After the ceremony, guests enjoyed If you are interested in joining the who returned to SGS on a Saturday Shaa Society or donating to the with similar A Level results. trials and I am incredibly lunch in the Hallam Hall, where they afternoon in September for the 1980s were entertained by Fourth Year Bursary Fund, please contact Rachel reunion barbecue. Pictured above: 8 of the 12 proud of her. pianist, Henry Brearley, before Horsford, Director of External candidates Games teacher hearing an account from the pupils Relations on 0161 419 2408. Held in the Main Quad and the Hallam Miss Sharon Withington who had visited the French and Hall, Old Stops and their families Belgian battlefields this year. OSA DINNER enjoyed catching up and reminiscing The annual dinner saw 98 Old Stops with old friends and teachers, against OXBRIDGE DINNER gather for an evening of food and a backdrop of photographic displays good conversation in the Hallam Hall. 52 Old Stops, Governors, pupils and from the archive which helped to jog Sixth Former Natalie Clark played the parents attended the annual Oxbridge their memories. And while the adults Rugby First XV piano for guests as they arrived. Dinner on Friday 4th May, held this enjoyed recollecting the past whilst Rugby First XV captain James Flynn, year at Hertford College, Oxford. listening to old tunes from the 80s, is now playing for his country after their children had plenty of fun on the being selected for the England Under-18s Clubs and bouncy castle in the Boys’ Gym and Schools Rugby Squad. James impressed the SHAA SOCIETY WASDALE didn’t let the rain reduce their appetite selectors during his excellent performances for LUNCH REUNION for the delights of the ice cream van!

the North at the Under-18s Divisional Festival which Legators and current donors We organised a Wasdale Visit the Stockport Grammar School saw the Prop scoreagainst the winningthe Midlands. try in a 7 – 5 victory gathered in the Hallam Hall on Reunion Weekend on Facebook page for more than 50 22nd March 2012 for the annual 11th-13th May, where many photographs from the day. It was Shaa Lunch. The event is open to Old Stopfordians, along with their James has also played for Sale Sharks’ second team current donors and all those who great to see so many of you there. families and friends got together in the Aviva A League this season, which just further are members of the Shaa Society – demonstrates what a promising to camp, go walking, enjoy meals that is anyone who has pledged a future he has in the game. and reminisce. For photos, legacy to the school. please go to the Old Stops’ section of the website. 18

19 KEEP IN TOUCH ALAN BAXENDALE DATES FOR • What are your fondest memories BURSARIES of your time at Stockport Thanks to the generosity of Alan YOUR DIARY Grammar School? Baxendale (OS 1942) the school • Ha ve you any recent achievements has been able to make two additional that you would like to share with us? bursary places available for pupils We are always keen to hear what joining the school this September. GOLF DAY our alumni are up to. Alan left legacy funds in trust for Thursday 21st June 2012 Stockport Grammar School and his The annual Bursary Appeal • Are you keen to re-connect former university, University College Fundraiser takes place at Stockport with fellow alumni from your London. One Alan Baxendale Bursary Golf Club. year? We are happy to help will assist a pupil from age eleven, organise reunions. If you are the other a Sixth Form student. For more information, including interested, please contact The Bursary Scheme helps bright team bookings and sponsorship, Alumni Assistant, Maili Lavin at local children whose parents could please contact Hannah Atenyam [email protected] not otherwise afford the fees. on 0161 419 2408. • D o you know any Old Stops that would like to be on our mailing list and aren’t already? Please HERITAGE ask them to get in touch. OPEN DAY Saturday 8th September Email: externalrelations@ The school is taking part in this stockportgrammar.co.uk national event, which offers free access to properties that are usually closed to the public. This offers a once-a-year chance to discover hidden architectural treasures and enjoy a wide range of tours, events and activities which bring to life local history and culture. Please contact the External Relations office if you would like to book a place.

WOODSMOOR WERE YOU OPENING INVOLVED IN The new Woodsmoor teaching ALBERT JOHNSTON’S facility will be in use from September 2012, with an official SCHOOL PLAYS BETWEEN 1935-1968? opening ceremony in 2013, once the demolition of the black and If so and you wish to share your white tower and associated building memories, we’d love to hear and landscaping work is complete. from you. Please write to or email External Relations with your stories.

STOCKPORT GRAMMAR SCHOOL

Stockport Grammar School Buxton Road Stockport SK2 7AF Telephone: 0161 456 9000 Email: [email protected] www.stockportgrammar.co.uk

Old Stops’ Review is produced by The External Relations Department and this issue was edited by Tamara Shneck.

We would like to thank all those who have contributed. If you would like to submit material for the 2013 edition or give any feedback on this one, please email [email protected] or call 0161 419 2408.

20Stockport Grammar School is a Registered Charity Number 1120199 Designed by www.jacksonhammond.co.uk