Editorial Note……………………………………… 03 Contact Addresses………………………………… 05 Board of Governors 2014………………………… 07 Teaching Staff 2014………………………………… 08 Ancillary Staff 2014……………………………………11 Past Presidents FCOBA…………………………… 12 Past Presidents LHSOGA………………………… 14 Joint Presidents FCFPA…………………………… 16 FCFPA Officers 2014-15 ………………………… 18 Prizegiving Speeches……………………………… 19 Update on the New School………………………… 35 Leavers’ Destinations……………………………… 37 Graduations………………………………………… 41 Notes, News and Announcements……………… 43 Obituaries…………………………………………… 48 President’s Profile………………………………… 60 Vice Presidents’ Profiles…………………………… 61 Reports of the Year’s Events……………………… 66 World War I Centenary 1914 – 2014……………… 85 Your Contributions………………………………… 92 From The Archive…………………………………… 98 Dates for Your Diary………………………………… 104 Standing Order Mandate…………………………… 105

1 2 Editorial Note

Welcome to the 2015 edition of the Foyle College Former Pupils’ Magazine.

2014 has been a significant year for the school. Firstly, it marked the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War during which 490 former pupils were to serve their country, of whom 72 made the supreme sacrifice. Many events were held to mark the Armistice in November and this edition includes articles outlining the notable service of some former pupils, a description of ceremonies held in the school and some illustrations of the spectacular, but poignant display of ceramic poppies at the Tower of London.

Secondly, the Department of Education moved the building of the new school forward by agreeing the Contract to Tender in January 2015. The Chair of Governors has given details of the schedule for the build which should now commence in March this year with the school transferring to the Springham Campus on Limavady Road during 2017, a most significant year, as it also marks the 400th anniversary of the school’s foundation.

Details of the year just past are covered by the Headmaster’s, Head Girl’s and Head Boy’s reports. Last year’s Sixth Form pupils went to a greater range of universities and courses than previously, an indication of the changing employment prospects in the country, the ever-increasing pressure from the Northern Ireland universities for prospective students to meet high entrance requirements and the limited number of places. Also included are lists of graduations from some of the universities. This information is no longer provided to the school so I am grateful when students or their parents forward it to us. I will be pleased to add any others, omitted here, to next year’s edition.

Keeping former pupils in touch with the school and other former pupils is the main aim of the Former Pupils’ Association. The best way to do this is by viewing the school’s website, especially the section dedicated to former pupils and I am grateful to Jennifer McClintock who updates our web pages and had an extensive database to keep former pupils informed. Please send her your email details, if we do not already have them; contact addresses and other details follow this editorial. Laura Taylor continues to manage our facebook account and details of all forthcoming functions, events and reunions can be found on the website and facebook pages. Please keep us informed of achievements, births, marriages, etc.

The Former Pupils’ Committee continues to publicise and organise the traditional luncheon and dinner, and will facilitate reunion events for year groups. Details and photographs of two reunions held in 2014 are included in this edition. As Chair of the committee this year, I would like to thank all members who have worked hard to ensure the smooth running of these events. Our Joint Presidents, Phenella Black and Lowry Cunningham, have been most active in attending events in school and socially outside school, and look forward to meeting as many of you as possible in the remaining functions before the end of their tenure in May this year.

I would like to thank Laura Taylor for all her work as Editor over the past 3 years and for her assistance to me as former Editor. Now that she has handed the editorial baton

3 back to me, I look forward to her continued input through the facebook account. I am most grateful to my editorial team, Mildred Deans and Sean McMahon, for their substantial input into this edition.

We hope you enjoy the magazine, whether you are reading it online or in hard copy. I would remind you that you can avail of hard copies by returning the Standing Order Mandate at the back of this edition to the school’s Bursar, Neil Stewart, and that a limited number will be available for purchase at the school office in Duncreggan.

Finally, please support our advertisers. Without their financial backing, it would not be possible to produce the magazine.

W M Lynn Editor Foyle College Former Pupils’ Magazine

4 Useful Contact Addresses

Foyle College Duncreggan Road Londonderry BT48 0AW Tel: (028) 71269321 School Website: www.foylenet.org.uk

You can also contact us and submit news and information to:

Mrs Mildred Deans 18 Altrest Road Cullion Londonderry BT47 2SJ Tel: (028)71841454 [email protected]

For submitting contact information: [email protected]

Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/foylecollegefpa

5 6 Board of Governors 2014

Governor’s Name Electing Body

Mr R Young The Honourable The Irish Society

Mrs K Jackson, Mrs D Leeson, Mr P Howie Parents’ Representatives

Mrs S Guthrie, Mrs S McLaughlin, Mr T Nutt Staff Representatives

Mr W M Lynn, Mr C Jeffrey, Former Pupils’ Representatives Mrs I McNally, Mrs J McClintock

Rev Dr R Craig Presbytery of Derry and Strabane Representative

Rev M R K Ferry Church of Ireland Diocesan Representative

Professor D Heenan University of Ulster Representative

Mr B Dougherty, Mrs D Fleming, Department of Education Mrs S Young, Mrs S O’Kane, Representatives Mr R McCullough, Mr R McCaughey, Ms L Quigley, Mrs J Stewart, Mr J Templeton

Mr G Killeen, Dr R Manning, Foundation Nominated Mr B Long, Mr I McCarter Representatives

Mr P W J Allen Principal

Mr N Stewart Clerk to Governors

7 Teaching Staff 2014-15

Principal Mr P W J Allen

Vice Principals Mr P G Gault Mr G S Mercer Mr R W H Menown

Art & Design Mr K F Ward (Head of Department) Mrs C J Kane Mrs S C Thomas

Biology Mrs I A Hannaway (Head of Department) Mrs L J Hand (Head of Junior Science) Mr P T Farmer

Business Studies Mrs H Eakin (Head of Department) Mrs B B McGowan

Careers Mr P T Farmer (Head of Department) Mrs H Eakin Ms L D McAuley

Chemistry Mr K S Given (Head of Department) Mrs J Millen Mr R A McKeegan

Design & Technology Mr A C Moorcroft (Head of Department) Mr A J Manning Mrs K R McShane

English Mrs A B Mercer (Head of Department) Mr P G Gault Mrs E O Steele Mr D R Keown Mrs K O Knox Mr B J Duffy

Geography Mrs S J E Guthrie (Head of Department) Mr R Menown Ms K Eakin Ms S Bollard Mr D T Gallagher Mrs L Wylie

Geology Miss N S Sloane

History Mrs M Dougherty (Head of Department) Mr J R McBride Mrs C O Robinson

Home Economics Mrs F Feeney (Head of Department) Miss N C Doyle

ICT Mrs S McLaughlin (Head of Department) Miss E Kivlehan Mrs K R McShane Mr A J Manning Mrs M M Leonard

Mathematics Mr T S Nutt (Head of Department) Mr G S Mercer Mrs B B McGowan Mrs B A Gillen Mrs C R Lynn Mrs L E Buchanan Miss K H Sayers

Music Mrs B O’Somachain (Head of Department) Miss E R Barr

Modern Languages Mrs J L Campbell Mrs P A L Coughlin Mrs H Kane-Craig Ms L D McAuley Mrs C A Lynch Mrs C A Johnston

Physics Mrs S M O’Connell (Head of Department) Mr D B Phillips Miss L M Carlin

Physical Education Ms K Eakin (Head of Department – Girls) Mr D A Barnett (Head of Department –Boys) Miss S Bollard Mr A J Ferguson Mrs L Wylie

Religious Studies Mrs J M Allen (Head of Department) Mrs S Moore

SENCo Mrs B B McGowan

Visiting Staff Mr B Quigley Ms C McCartney Miss C M Moore

9 FOYLEFOYLE COACHESCOACHES Redcastle, Co. Donegal

Providing transport for Foyle and Londonderry College

Minibus and coach hire at competitive rates

All vehicles meet high standards of safety and comfort

All enquiries to Foyle Coaches -

Tel. 00353 74 93 82116 Mobile: 00353 86 2600265 Fax: 00353 74 93 82619

Web: www.foylecoaches.com

Ancillary Staff 2014-2015

School Bursar Mr N Stewart B Sc Principal’s Personal Assistant Mrs J Galbraith School Secretaries Mrs J Cole (Springtown) Mrs W Nutt (Duncreggan) Clerical Office Mrs J Gallagher Library Mr P Walker Mr P Wright Sixth Form Study Supervisor Mr K Quigg Junior School Study Supervisor Mrs M Thompson Classroom Assistants Miss L Boyce Mrs A Callaghan Mr P Coyle Mrs K Doherty Mrs P Feathers Miss J Leitch Miss J Lynch Mrs P McCandless Mrs C McShane Mrs D Rankin Mrs R Wilson Reprographics/Premises Officer Mr G Balmer Network Manager Mr S Hamilton Technicians Mrs C Hume Mrs M Mullan Mrs J Woods Estates Manager Mr C Austin Grounds Staff Mr N Cole Duncreggan Canteen Mrs V Bratton Mrs A Burton (Head Cook) Mrs S Coyle Ms C McAuley Ms B McCallion Mrs L Murray (Assistant Cook) Mrs C Page Mrs H Wright Springtown Canteen Ms V Hockley (Head Cook) Mrs J Doherty (Assistant Cook) Mrs M Duddy Mrs A Wilson Mr S Powell Duncreggan Cleaners Mrs M Bignol, Mr J Ferguson, Mrs M Ferguson, Mr J Geslak, Mr G McNulty, Mr R Nesbitt, Mrs H Wright Springtown Cleaners Mrs V Bratton, Mrs M Cooke, Mrs V Lynch , Mrs M Lynn, Mrs P McColgan, Mrs D Smith

Past Presidents of Foyle College Old Boys’ Association

1928 - 29 The Right Hon Sir John Ross Bart 1929 - 30 Alfred Moore Munn BA 1930 - 31 His Honour Judge John Fitzpatrick Cooke KC DL 1931 - 32 Sir Samuel Thompson Irwin CBE BA MB MCh FRCS DLMP 1932 - 33 Major James Sproule Myles MC TD 1933 - 34 Professor Charles Gibson Lowry MD FRCS FRCOG 1934 - 35 John Gallagher Michaels 1935 - 36 The Very Rev James Gilbert Paton MC MA DD 1936 - 37 Sir James McElmunn Wilton MC 1937 - 38 Thomas Carnwath DSO BA MB DSc DPH 1938 - 39 Isaac J Trew Colquhoun BA 1939 - 40 The Right Hon Mr Justice William Lowry 1940 - 41 John Blakeney Gillies LDS 1941 - 42 Thomas Taggart LLD 1942 - 43 His Honour Judge Marcus Dill Begley QC 1943 - 44 The Very Reverend William Corkey MA DD 1944 - 45 Sir William Athlestane Meredith Good KBE 1945 - 46 Robert Foster Dill MA 1946 - 47 Professor Frances James Brown, MS DSc FRCS (Ed) FRCOG 1947 - 48 Sir John Herbert McCutcheon Craig KCVO CB LLD 1948 - 49 Rupert William Jeffares 1949 - 50 Samuel Milligan 1950 - 51 Samuel Russell Foster MC Croix de Guerre MB 1951 - 52 John Foster Caldwell CB QC LLM JP 1952 - 53 The Very Rev Thomas McCurdy Barker MA DD 1953 - 54 The Right Hon Sir David Callender Campbell PC KBE CMG MP 1954 - 55 William Cecil Glover MBE 1955 - 56 Henry Cooke Porter Cresswell 1956 - 57 Sir Robert Gransden CBE 1957 - 58 Charles Wilson BA 1958 - 59 Samuel Maxwell Alexander Lowry 1959 - 60 John Thomas Irwin AMIEE 1960 - 61 William Staveley Ferguson BA 1961 - 62 Major James Alexander Glen CBE ERD MA 1962 - 63 Joseph Boyd Irwin CSI CIE DSO MC BA 1963 - 64 Joseph Charles Eaton DL JP 1964 - 65 Prof Charles Horner Greer McAfee CBE DSc MB FRCS FRCIS & FRCOG 1965 - 66 Samuel Douglas Irons 1966 - 67 The Right Hon Sir Herbert McVeigh Lord Justice of Appeal 1967 - 68 The Very Rev Austin A Fulton MA PhD DD 1968 - 69 Senator John C Drennan CBE HML JP 1969 - 70 The Very Rev Samuel James Park MA DD 1970 - 71 Armour Hamilton Matthews LDS RCS 1971 - 72 Colonel Oswald W Gilmour MA MAI CEng FICE 1972 - 73 The Right Hon Sir Robert Porter QC MP 1973 - 74 The Very Rev William Alexander Albert Park MA DD

12 1974 - 75 David Alan Eccles Roberts MA 1975 - 76 John Alexander Crockett 1976 - 77 James Stewart Connolly MA LLB 1977 - 78 Professor Emeritus ACP Campbell MB ChB FRC Path FRCPE 1978 - 79 Professor J C Goligher MB ChM FRCSE FRCS (Edin) 1979 - 80 J B Mullin BA HDipEd 1980 - 81 Rev R K Greer MA BD 1981 - 82 R N Crawford CBE BCommSc FCA FRSA FBIM 1982 - 83 Real Admiral W J McClune CB MSc MIEE 1983 - 84 J Piggot,MB BCh FRCS 1984 - 85 A E Barbour BSc FBCO 1985 - 86 J Kincade CBE MA BLitt PhD 1986 - 87 D C G Craig BA 1987 - 88 S A Hunter BSc C Eng FIEE 1988 - 89 H W Young OBE MA 1989 - 90 J C Lapsley BSc DLC DASE 1990 - 91 T H Armstrong BA DipEd 1991 - 92 R J Magowan BA, DASE MSc 1992 - 93 Prof S G Carruthers MD FRCPC 1993 - 94 N J Henderson BSc 1994 - 95 J H Y Fergusson 1995 - 96 A G Kennedy BA 1996 - 97 Prof R J McClelland MD PhD FRCPSYCH 1997 - 98 D R Craig B Arch ARIBA DIP TP MRTPI 1998 - 99 The Very Rev D C Orr MA 1999 - 00 E W Hamilton 2000 - 01 J E Bigger MA DASE 2001 - 02 H W Gillespie BA DASE 2002 - 03 A W Roulston CA 2003 - 04 J Cowan BA Dip Ed DASE 2004 - 05 I M Piggot 2005 - 06 J V Arthur BSc (Est Man) FRICS IRRV 2006 - 07 E S Marshall BA FRSA MA LGSM ALCM 2007 - 08 R S Tosh BSc BD PhD 2008 - 09 J A S Kelso BS MS PhD 2009 –10 J A C McFarland BSc C Eng FICE 2010 –11 J S M Huey BA Dip Ed

13 Londonderry High School Old Girls’ Association Founded 1935 Presidents LHS OGA

1935-45 Miss M F McIlroy 1946 Mrs H M Williams 1947 Mrs Killen MA 1948 Mrs E R Gordon 1949 Miss Osborne OBE JP 1950 Mrs H Robinson 1951 Mrs Doreen McConnell BA 1952 Miss M K M Aiken BA BLLB 1953 Mrs John Watson MBE 1954 Mrs B H Lynn FRCS 1955 Mrs B Roe MBE 1956 Dr Elsie Johnston 1957 Mrs S Dowds 1958 Dr Violet Breakey 1959 Mrs N Young 1960 Mrs H J Clarke 1961 Mrs J C Eaton 1962 Miss Grace Armstrong 1963 Mrs Jean L’Amie MA 1964 Marie Loullier OBE MA 1965 Mrs Olive McLaughlin BA 1966 Mrs R R Hunter 1967 Mrs G R Joscelyne 1968 Mrs J G Colhoun 1969 Miss Alice Rowan 1970 Miss E A Park BSc 1971 Mrs Mary Britton 1972 Miss M R Colhoun 1973 Mrs K Gillis 1974 Miss A E Stirling MA 1975 Miss M W Cunningham MA 1976 Miss M Anderson 1977 Mrs E W M Marr 1978 Mrs T R Berry 1979 Mrs M B Seaward 1980 Mrs M B Seaward 1981 Mrs R J Aiken 1982 Mrs J Moore 1983 Mrs J McCandless 1984 Mrs E Clay 1985 Mrs E Finlay 1986 Mrs M Welch 1987 Mrs J W Taggart 1988 Mrs D Stuart 1989 Mrs Gladys Black 1990 Mrs K Stewart

14 1991 Mrs E Whiteside 1992 Mrs Lorna Knox 1993 Mrs W Burns 1994 Miss Anne Wilson 1995 Mrs M Phillips 1996 Miss G Simpson 1997 Mrs R Ramsey 1998 Mrs B Hamilton 1999 Mrs J Y Coskery 2000 Mrs Helen Hilson 2001 Mrs C Corrigan 2002 Mrs J Milliken 2003 Mrs Thelma Arthur 2004 Mrs N Foss 2005 Mrs Molly Kennedy 2006 Mrs Elma McDevitt 2007 Mrs Isabel McNally CBE 2008 Mrs Molly Sutton 2009 Mrs Phyllis Logan 2010 Mrs Ruth Hamilton 2011 Mrs Pamela Jackson 2012 Dr Kanchan McAllister (née Chada)

15 Foyle College Former Pupils’ Association Joint Presidents

2011 – 2013 K McAllister MB Bch BAO R C Montgomery MB Bch BAO DMH DHMSA 2013 – 2014 Mrs E F Swinson BDS W S F Young MA 2014 – 2015 Mrs P A Black BA W L Cunningham B Agr

16 Lily Swinson & Phenella Black Billy Young & Lowry Cunningham

FPA Officials attending AGM William Lynn, Peter McCartney, Lowry Cunningham, Denis Connolly

17 Foyle College Former Pupils’ Association

OFFICERS 2014 – 15

Presidents Mrs Phenella Black and Mr Lowry Cunningham

Vice Presidents Miss Ann Watson and Mr Denis Connolly

Chairperson Mr William Lynn

Vice Chairperson Mrs Cathy Arthur

Hon Secretary Mr Marshall Kilgore

Hon Treasurer Mr Neil Stewart

Members of Executive Committee

Mrs Jennifer McClintock

Mrs Fiona Rankin

Mr Colin Jeffrey

Mr Paul Curtis

Mr Peter McCartney

Mr Alastair Manning

Hon Auditors Mr Robin Young and Mr Brian Peoples

Lowry Cunningham, Phenella Black, President 2014-2015 President 2014-2015

PRIZE-GIVING 2014

HEADMASTER’S SPEECH It is once again a pleasure to welcome so many of you here this evening to join us for our annual Prize Distribution. May I also join with the Chairman in welcoming our Guest of Honour this evening, Ms Charlotte Simpson. It was something of a relief when Charlotte arrived this evening as Mr Menown, our pastoral VP, had warned me that timekeeping was not always Charlotte’s forte when he was teaching her during his first year at Foyle. Charlotte left Foyle & Londonderry College as Head Girl in June 2004 before going up to Trinity College Dublin to study Law. During her time at the school Charlotte excelled academically achieving 5A*s, 4As and a B in her GCSEs, 4As at AS and A Grades in English Literature, French and History at A- Level. But the reason why I invited Charlotte to be our speaker this evening is because she represents what is best about Foyle College; not only did she excel academically but she also seized the opportunities presented to her to develop outside the classroom. On the sports field Charlotte played hockey throughout her time at school ending her participation as Vice-Captain of the 1st XI and also playing tennis for the Senior Team; she completed her Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award whilst in Year 13 and was a cast member in productions of Annie and My Fair Lady where, according to the show’s producer, Mr David Keown,, she demonstrated a mean Cockney accent; however, we won’t ask her for a demonstration this evening. Artistically Charlotte also completed her Grade 8 in Speech and Drama and Grade 6 Piano. It was, however, her participation in both the Junior Magistrates competition and the Bar Mock Trial team which gave her an early insight into the workings of the legal system and which, perhaps, helped determine the direction that she has followed since leaving our school. In his UCAS reference Charlotte’s former Headmaster, Mr Magill, wrote ‘Charlotte is an exceptional pupil in every sense’. He continued, ‘The recitation of statistics does not really do her justice however, because it hardly conveys her vivid personality. Charlotte is an enthusiast. She enjoys what she does and conveys an infectious pleasure in her activities to those around her’. Charlotte is obviously one of those people who represent perfectly the opportunities that Foyle College affords to its pupils should they choose to avail of them. It is the aim of our school community to help our pupils grow academically, athletically and artistically in order to fulfil their potential both as members of the school community and as contributors to society. Hopefully my report this evening, along with those of this year’s Head Boy and Head Girl will illustrate the opportunities that Foyle College affords its pupils who are prepared to rise to the challenge. This evening we will endeavour to recognise the achievements and efforts of as many pupils, in as many areas of school life, as possible; however, the core business of our school remains learning and teaching so let us turn our attention to this year’s performances in the public examinations. At GCSE the pass rate across all subjects was 90% with 40% of grades achieved being either A* or A. Overall 82% of pupils achieved seven or more GCSEs at Grades A-C including Maths & English. Of particular note, and worthy of individual mention are Cormac Ruiz-Byrne who ended up with 11A* grades having taken Spanish GCSE in Year 10. During the current exam session Cormac also achieved an A* in Spanish at A-Level. There were also outstanding performances from Lydia

19 Cullen who achieved 10A* grades and Kathy Crown and Amy Young who both achieved 9A*s and an A grade. Also worthy of individual mention are Louise Adair, Heather Allen, Chloe Appleby, Jamie Bankhead, Amy Caldwell, Harry Chambers, Sara Douglas, Jordan Finlay, Jane Fulton, Rory Gilliland, Sarah Gwyne, David Jackson, Aaron McFarland, Hannah McGarrigle, Roise McSorley, Craig Reid, Courtney Simpson and Robert Smyth who all achieved at least 9 grades at A or A*. Also in this exam session Jessica Simpson, who was in Year 10 last year, achieved an A* in GCSE German and Akunya Fomina achieved an A* in GCSE Russian whilst in Year 11. Finally we mustn’t forget the 54 Year 11 pupils who sat their GCSE Maths in one year with 74% achieving A*s and a further 24% achieving A grades. For Year 13 pupils the AS pass rate was 98% across all subjects with 28% of the grades achieved at Grade A, 32% at Grade B and 22% at Grade C. Worthy of individual mention are Ruth Allen, Sarah Ferry and Jade Gould who each achieved 4 A grades whilst Andrew Dickson, Frank Duffy, Jacob Galbraith, Lucy Hamilton, Jack Hanna, Rodger Long, Andrew Martin, Jack McNeill, James Morrison and Ravi Muttu all achieved at least 3 A grades. In Geology, Andrew Dickson was placed Second in Northern Ireland, with Ethan Lapsley coming Third. As always it is wonderful to see so many of those who have just completed Year 14 joining us this evening for what will be their final school event. It is an indicator of their connection with the school, and with their peers, that so many have chosen to be here this evening and I am delighted to welcome them. This year’s cohort achieved an A-Level pass rate of 98% across all subjects with 73% achieving 3A*-C grades, an improvement of 4% on last year. 34% of the grades awarded were at A or A* which compares favourably to the Northern Ireland figure of 33% of pupils or the figure for England and Wales of 26%. Worthy of individual mention are James Cole, Patrick Leeson and Hilary Leeson who each achieved 4A* grades and Judith Allen who achieved 3A*s and an A. Also worthy of mention are Amy Austin, Kevin Callaghan, Gareth Connor, Rebecca Cummings, Eva Diver, Becky Downey, Daniel Duddy, Alexandra Graham, Bethan Heath, Aoife McSorley, Joanne Struthers, Lauren Moore and Mark Wilson who each achieved 3 A Grades or better. As well as achieving excellent grades overall, Bethan Heath was also placed First in Geology in Northern Ireland and Fourth in the UK. The recognition of those that I have named this evening is not intended to diminish the individual achievements of any of those who are here this evening or, indeed, any pupil of the school. Foyle College is about fostering opportunities for young learners to excel on a personal level and that is what all of our leavers have done in their own way. For some it will have been a personal triumph to achieve the grades required to gain a university place. Many will have faced up to, and overcome, personal difficulties at some point in their seven years at Foyle. The vast majority will have seized the opportunities that the school has offered them and leave us as enriched and enhanced contributors to society. I wish them good luck as they begin the next phase of their lives and hope that they will keep in touch and let us know how they are getting on. League tables of exam results, whether official or unofficial, are having an insidious impact on schools, turning many into exam factories where results become the raison d’être of the school to the exclusion of the development of rounded individuals who can contribute in a useful way to society. I believe that I have already shown this evening that Foyle College can compete with the very best in terms of the academic

20 excellence that our pupils attain but I also believe that what happens outside the classroom is equally, if not more, important in terms of the overall development of each individual pupil. At Foyle we have a word cloud of the values that we believe represent what our school stands for. Our core values are respect, determination, commitment, integrity and responsibility but pupils and staff also suggested, amongst others, values such as dedication, excellence, confidence, ambition, co-operation, compassion and pride. It is pupil participation in the array of extra-curricular activities offered by staff which helps to develop these values in our young people. To illustrate let’s start with Rugby and in particular last year’s 1st XV squad. The season started with what I remember as a far from convincing 12-0 win over Portora Royal. On the second weekend the team had their local derby with Limavady Grammar. As I watched the game on the 21 September I remember thinking to myself that it was going to be a very long season as the team went down 29-3, a margin of defeat that could probably have been bigger. As the term progressed the results were something of a mixed bag with the team losing to Rainey Endowed and Dalriada whilst beating Royal School Dungannon, Carrick Grammar and Omagh Academy. However, watching the matches it was clear that the team were working hard in their training sessions; fitness and handling were improving and they were beginning to believe in their own abilities, to gel as an effective unit and to give one hundred per cent of themselves right up to the final whistle. Then came the draw for the Danske Bank Schools’ Cup and the team were drawn against Limavady Grammar, their nemesis from the start of the season and a team that fancied their chances for the competition having had a good run as a Medallion squad. On a day where the weather (horizontal rain and freezing temperatures) and the pitch (completely waterlogged) should have seen the match postponed, I witnessed one of the grittiest, most determined performances that I have ever seen from a rugby team; they simply refused to rollover and give up and were in the match right to the very end. Sadly it wasn’t to be and the result was 15-6 to Limavady at the final whistle. But it wasn’t just the squad’s resilience in that one game that so impressed me, it was the fact that they took the self-belief that they had developed and went on to defeat Friends School Lisburn, BRA, Lurgan College and Banbridge Academy to win the Bowl competition on the 15 March. The whole squad have, through their participation in a team sport, benefited from lessons in the importance of attributes such as determination, commitment, cooperation, self-discipline and teamwork. In total some 130 pupils regularly represent the school in rugby across all year groups developing similar attributes, and those in Years 10-12 have the added incentive of a tour to South Africa in 2017 to inspire them to excel in the coming seasons. Examples of the lessons learned and the benefits for young people can be seen across the full range of activities offered to the pupils of Foyle College by the highly dedicated staff. 120 pupils regularly participated in Hockey teams across the school last year. To illustrate my point the 1st XI Hockey team, having been hopeful of a good cup run, had to pick themselves up having lost on penalty flicks in the second round of their competition to Antrim Grammar School. They had to demonstrate characteristics such as resilience, friendship, commitment and determination in order to progress in the plate competition. Some 90 pupils regularly played cricket. The 1st XI Cricket team demonstrated some outstanding teamwork, determination and commitment to reach the final of the Ulster Schools’ Cup where they were disappointed to lose to RBAI. In Badminton the senior boys team got to the semi- final of the cup and finished Third in their league. Kyle Magee, who was only in

21 Year 8 last year, won the Champion of Champions competition for Years 8-10. The U16 footballers reached the quarter-finals of their cup competition and from some 20 fencers, eight were selected to represent Northern Ireland for the UK School Games, two were Irish National Cadet Champions, seven were selected to represent Ireland at international events and five received Mary Peters Trust Awards. And I haven’t even mentioned those who participate in Tennis, Athletics or Cross-Country. But it doesn’t have to be through participation in team or individual sports that we help to develop the values and attributes which will stand pupils in good stead once they move on from Foyle. 113 pupils are members of the school’s Combined Cadet Force Contingent, having opportunities to participate in a range of adventurous activities. According to their website the aim of the CCF is to ‘provide a disciplined organisation in a school so that pupils may develop powers of leadership by means of training to promote the qualities of responsibility, self reliance, resourcefulness, endurance and perseverance’. These qualities were clearly in evidence when in 2013 Jack Gibson, who is one of our leavers, the Contingent Sergeant Major in the Army section, was selected to be the Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet for Londonderry and this year he has been succeeded by Lauralee Barr who is in the current Year 14 and a Petty Officer in the Navy Section. This is a fantastic achievement for both Jack and Lauralee, and to have successive cadets hold this position is a real feather in the cap for the school’s CCF. Every school year has annual highlights in its calendar and many of those at Foyle revolve around the performing arts which rely on pupil participation for their success. Last year was no exception beginning with 18 pupils from across the school performing Twelfth Night under the guidance of Mrs Johnston and Mrs Knox as part of the UK wide Shakespeare in Schools Festival. Then in early December we had the school’s production of Little Shop of Horrors which in total involved 35 pupils on stage, seven pupils or former pupils in the orchestra, 10 pupils in the stage team and 25 others involved with front of house, make up, ticket sales and refreshments. In addition to Mr Keown, Mrs O’Somachain and Miss Barr, eight other members of staff also gave up their time to help put on a very successful and enjoyable show over three nights. Having been personally involved in school plays and musicals I know the benefits that I gained in terms of being able to stand up on stage this evening to address you and I’m confident that Charlotte would also agree with me. Finally, during the Easter term, some 210 pupils (out of a total school population of 850) were involved in the Easter Concert which contained solo performances by the Year 14 music students along with performances by the school orchestra, the Jazz Band, the Senior and Junior Choirs, the Junior Band, the African drummers and our in-house DJs. All of these young people will have shown considerable commitment and dedication given the rehearsal time needed to bring about performances of the standard that we enjoyed. Pupils in the Junior School also had some wonderful opportunities for personal development with 75 pupils from Year 9 travelling to Les Menuires for their ski trip whilst 38 pupils from Year 10 travelled to the Paris area including a daytrip to visit the World War I battlefields. During this trip one of the pupils, Glenn Wray, who had undertaken some personal research before the trip, tracked down the grave of his Great Great Great Uncle and was able to leave a token of respect from his family. Both of these trips encourage the development of social skills and allow pupils to experience the culture of another country.

22 So what are the potential outcomes of all these personal development opportunities that so many of the pupils enjoy? Let me illustrate first of all by reference to an individual pupil. Having been one of some 1500 nominations in the Pramerica Spirit of Community Awards, Gareth Connor of last year’s Year 14 was one of only 20 finalists from across Ireland who were honoured in March with a gala evening at the Sollis Lough Eske hotel outside Donegal town. Over the last four years Gareth has given countless hours to gaining his coaching badges from the IFA and to delivering sessions to players of a wide range of ages at Institute FC. As is so often the case with young people of this calibre, Gareth is a top academic student who also represented the school in football and cricket. Gareth’s achievements and recognition is typical of one of the many things that has struck me since coming to Foyle; that is the propensity of the pupils to give to others, either as individuals or as members of bodies such as the school councils or the Health Committee. Last year the Middle School Council took part in the Young Social Innovators Programme aimed at making life better for people within their school or local community across the whole of Ireland. The Foyle pupils decided to focus on the mental health of adolescents because they felt that sometimes the issues that are faced by young people in their lives at home and in school are overlooked by adults. The pupils had to submit a 4,000 word report which involved actively researching areas of mental health such as stress, self-harm, depression, eating disorders and suicide. They contacted and worked alongside mental health charities such as ZEST, AWARE and NewLife Counselling. Most importantly, and practically, they organised a mental health awareness week for the pupils in the senior school. Some of the charities came and ran workshops and all of the assemblies for the week had a focus on an element of mental health and were delivered by outside agencies or the pupils themselves. They also promoted healthy lifestyles by organising Boxercise and Zumba classes, circuit training and Insanity workouts and promoted healthy eating by bringing in a nutrition expert to speak about issues such as eating disorders. Through their work the Middle School Council hoped to break through the stigma of mental health in Foyle College allowing all their peers to continue to reach their potential but what struck me about their work are the range of transferable skills that, as a group and as individuals, they developed during the project. I have provided just a taster of the experiences enjoyed by pupils at Foyle College over the past school year and how I believe it helps them to develop as members of the school community and contributors to society as a whole. I must apologise to those staff and pupils that I have not been able to include but to report on the total breadth and variety of achievements and activities that have taken place in our school would simply take too much time. This variety relies on a single common factor – the members of staff who are prepared to give so generously of their time and expertise after school, at weekends and in many cases during their holidays to support and develop the pupils of Foyle; time, expertise and commitment that, dare I say it are not always appreciated by some of those who benefit until after they have left the school. Fortunately, after significant changes over the last three years, the staffing situation has been more settled with no retirements from either the teaching or support staff. I would like to thank Miss Cara McAleer, Miss Mary McAleer, Mr Ian Scott, Mr Steven Young and Mr Kieran O’Doherty for the work that they did throughout the year covering for members of the permanent staff who were absent for a variety of reasons. I wish them well and, given the excellent teachers they proved to be, hope that they will find permanent positions soon. We have made two appointments to the staff for this school year in order to allow us to expand our curriculum better to meet

23 the needs, interests and aspirations of our pupils. Miss Niamh Doyle, who was with us last year as cover, has joined the staff to introduce Health and Social Care at both GCSE and A-Level whilst Miss Erin Kivlehan has joined the ICT department to allow us to expand the range of computing classes on offer in the senior school. As has been the practice in previous years we have asked the Head Girl and Head Boy to report principally on those areas of school life in which they are directly involved and I hope I haven’t stepped too badly on their toes by focusing on extra-curricular provision. These two young people embody all that is best about grammar school education as they have seized the opportunities presented to them and I would encourage pupils of all ages to follow their example, and that of Charlotte, during their time at Foyle College. I will now hand you over to our Head Girl, Sarah Ferry, who will be followed by the Head Boy, Philip Carroll.

24 Tel: (028) 7134 6227

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Artillery Chambers, 10-12 Artillery Street, Londonderry. BT48 6RG Tel: 028 7126 1334 • www.caldwellrobinson.com

Tel: (028) 7134 6227

Caldwell & Robinson COMMERCIAL AND PRIV25ATE CLIENT SOLICITORS (Celebrating 100 years – 1910-2010) Commercial Practice • local, cross border and international scope • commercial property and industrial sectors • joint ventures and corporate transactions • litigation and debt recovery

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Artillery Chambers, 10-12 Artillery Street, Londonderry. BT48 6RG Tel: 028 7126 1334 • www.caldwellrobinson.com HEAD GIRL’S SPEECH As everyone in this hall will know, there is more to education than is taught in the classroom. I have the great honour this year of being Head Girl and have the seemingly impossible task of giving you an insight into the extra-curricular activities that go on in Foyle College. I could quite easily talk to you for 40 minutes but don’t worry, I’ve kept it brief – I’ll only be speaking for 20.

A key part of Foyle life, and one in which I am involved, is Music. I think the Jazz Band is one of Foyle’s best assets. It has always been well renowned in the city and this year was no exception, with the band performing in several venues throughout the year. Personal highlights include the PTFA Jazz Evening in the Waterfoot Hotel and performing in the Spiegel tent during the Jazz Festival, both of which had a great turnout to listen to the variety of jazz hits, old and new, which Foyle had to offer. The highlight of the Music Department’s calendar is the Spring Concert held in Christ Church, where pupils from all Year Groups took part in a variety of performances covering many genres, from traditional choral pieces to DJ-Decks and African Drumming. The concert ended with a performance of the 2013 City of Culture song, ‘Let the River Run’ involving Junior and Senior Choirs, Orchestra, Junior Band and Jazz Band. This certainly ended the evening on a high note.

The 1st XI Hockey Team captained by Alexandra Graham, had a mixed season, with excellent performances on the pitch that were often not reflected in the score line. Their cup tie was against Antrim Grammar and Foyle were first to score. However, Antrim got a goal back and the game went to extra time. It was a nail biting end to the day, with Foyle eventually losing in sudden death penalty strokes. They were then put into the Plate and, after conceding an early goal to Kilkeel, Foyle got the ball rolling and scored four goals, giving them a comfortable 4-1 victory. They then faced Victoria College in the quarter finals, the fifth year in a row Foyle have played Victoria in the cup, plate or shield. Unfortunately Foyle lost the match and exited the competition.

The Seconds also narrowly lost their cup match, losing on penalty flicks and in a fate similar to the 1st XI, went on to win their first plate match against Dungannon but lose in the next round. The Seconds this year were a young team, with many players showing great promise for the next few years of Foyle hockey.

The Thirds had a good season with a great turnout to practices and solid performances on the pitch. Memorable victories include those over Coleraine, Dungannon and Antrim. U16’s Hockey also had a successful season with the A-team, captained by Rosie McSorley, winning the North West Hockey League.

Athletics is another sport in which Foyle excels, with both Year 8 boys and girls winning their indoor tournaments against local schools. The Cross-Country Club has gone from strength to strength with Foyle being well represented in various events throughout the year. Rhys Hughes qualified for the Irish Cross-Country Championships in 12th place out of 104 competitors in the 4000 m, with other runners narrowly missing out on qualifying for their events. Hopefully the team is on track for similar results this season.

26 With six Bronze Medals and eight Silver Medals, the North West Schools’ Gala went swimmingly for Foyle pupils with Naomi Lawther, Jake Quinnell and Rebekah Ferry all achieving Gold Medals. In Badminton, Kyle Magee triumphed in the Champion of Champions’ Competition winning all six games in the round robin competition and then the final by a wide margin.

Now on to a racket of a different kind – the sound of Audrey 2, the Venue fly trap, shouting, ‘Feed me’. In December the curtain rose on the school show, The Little Shop of Horrors and all eyes were planted on Mushnik’s Flower Shop to watch Seymour and Audrey, played by Andrew Quinn and Gillian Dunn, and the rest of the cast perform. The effort put in during rehearsals was evident as the cast and crew put on a professional and entertaining show thoroughly enjoyed by all.

A cast composed of both junior and senior pupils put on a 30-minute adaptation of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night for the Schools’ Shakespeare Festival. The cast did a wonderful job, and I can tell you from experience, having performed in one of these plays myself in the Junior School, that learning and performing lines from Shakespeare is never easy.

Tom McBride and Inge Sweigers were chosen from the Senior School pupils in the Debating Club to represent Foyle in the Northern Ireland Debating Competition. The team won the first round convincingly, however did not progress beyond the second round. Public Speaking is not confined to the Senior School with Junior School pupils being in full voice too. Hannah Lawther won a competition on Road Safety and Abbie Nolan came second in another competition with a speech on Social Media.

I enjoy my Foyle College experience and I’d like to thank everyone who contributes to this. It was Anatole France, a French poet, who said, ‘nine tenths of education is encouragement’ and I believe that at Foyle College this is the case. From Chess Club and Scripture Union to Hockey and Orchestra, there is an abundance of extra- curricular activity available at Foyle; there really is something for everyone. The friendships, memories and encouragement we get from these clubs help to ensure that if you go to Foyle College, your school days really are the best days of your life. Thank you.

Sarah Ferry

27 HEAD BOY’S SPEECH

Ladies and gentleman, I'd like to extend a warm welcome to you all, as we gather here tonight to celebrate Foyle College 2014 Prize-giving. It is a great honour to represent my school tonight as we look back on another year. For some years I, too, have sat in this audience. I never dreamt of being the one on stage giving this speech and to have this chance to say thank you to the school that has given me so much. The Foyle College family has been my pride, passion and life for the past six years. And last year was another exciting year. Whilst I cannot do justice to the continual hard work and ongoing, numerous, varied activities of all members of this school’s community, I hope by the end of my short speech you will have some idea of the events and experiences that continue to shape us as students into young adults. Tonight we gather here not just to celebrate the achievements of the prize winners, but to celebrate Foyle College as a school that has always been concerned with providing a complete education.

The Duke of Edinburgh Scheme again proved to be a very popular option with over 100 pupils spread across Bronze, Silver and Gold awards. Hiking expeditions feature in all three levels. However, by the time you reach Gold you also have the option of cycling through the hills of Donegal. This provides you with a range of beautiful scenery but I can assure you from personal experience this is no cycle in the park. This programme presents pupils with valuable life skills. On behalf of all the participants we are extremely grateful for all the ongoing hard work of the staff who give up their free time to make this possible.

Foyle College continues to impress on the sporting field with all the rugby squads recording relatively successful seasons. The 1st XV captained by Patrick Leeson had an extremely pleasing year as they triumphed in the Northern Bank Ulster Schools’ Bowl competition narrowly defeating Banbridge Academy in an intense encounter. Some of the highlights were excellent wins against large rugby schools such as Belfast Royal Academy. The dramatic change in performance was due to the ongoing hard work at training sessions by both the students and also the coaches Mr Barnett and Mr Menown.

The 2nd XV squad coached by Norman Taylor and Malcolm Burns also recorded an excellent season. The squad was relatively young, however it was evident the new players were not fazed by the step-up, as they only lost two games by December. Sadly, the casualty toll began to rise which saw the driving force of the mighty Seconds reduced as they were eliminated early from the cup by Ballymena. Fortunately, they re-grouped and reached the semi-final of the plate competition. It wasn't only the senior players who displayed impressive skills and gritty performances as the Medallion squad reached the final of the trophy competition. Furthermore, the U14 side retained the Mowbray shield.

We had another excellent year with a bat in our hands as the cricket squads excelled. The 1st XI was captained by Michael Rankin who proved to be a great leader on and off the pitch. In addition, Gareth Connor was also an extremely influential player. This squad enjoyed a great season as they progressed through to the final of the Schools’ Cup defeating near rivals Limavady Grammar in the process. Unfortunately, in the final, the team suffered a narrow defeat at the hands of RBAI.

Junior cricket sides also had tremendous seasons as the U15 and U13 squads reached the final of the Northern Ireland Cup. Both fixtures are scheduled to be played within the next few days and we are hoping the boys can bring back more silverware. Foyle also has displayed its flexibility in the past two years establishing a Junior Tennis team and three Soccer teams. Already impressive results have been delivered and no little potential and skill, with the tennis players reaching a semi-final while the U16 soccer players reached the quarter-finals of the Northern Irish Cup.

The Combined Cadet Force continued to attract high numbers to their weekly Wednesday meetings. The Army Section of the force were given the opportunity to travel to a summer camp based in Beckingham. Notably, on this trip the team were victorious in the drill competition and finished second overall, a very impressive feat. Similarly, the Navy had the chance to migrate across the Irish Channel to attend camps in Dartmouth and Portsmouth. This gave students such as Laura Lee Barr, Stewart Fulton and Jacob Galbraith the chance to complete their scuba diving course. The RAF group gives pupils over the age of 16 the chance to spread their wings and fly. Over the past three years we have had two cadets awarded their flying scholarship with two more in the processes of completing. The most recent student to achieve this award was Aaron Feathers, last year’s Deputy Head Boy.

As always Foyle has excelled within the fencing world with many of the squad representing Ireland. As a result of claiming a spot on the national team the students were provided with the opportunity to travel abroad. Brian Murray, Joshua Cheung and Kathryn Marshall entered competitions in Austria and England. Other students such as Rosie McGonagle, Laura McElhinney, Jamie Price and Jonathan Burnside have also had similar opportunities. This provided pupils with the chance to experience new cultures as well as competing at the highest level.

Ladies and gentleman it has been an absolute pleasure to speak here tonight. As I come to a close I wish to say thank you to all the people that have made tonight possible. Parents, thank you - the tantrums and the tears have paid off - tonight you have young people you can truly be proud of. Teachers, thank you for the effort and the commitment to our learning you have shown; the wealth of extra-curricular activities and experiences I have described would not be possible were it not for the valuable time that you have sacrificed. You not only give us lessons to pass exams, you also give us lessons in how to live with courage and integrity and to explore new avenues of thought, skill and adventure. Thank you also to the students seated in the hall tonight. You are a great student body and a pleasure to represent; it truly is an honour. Thank you.

Philip Carroll

29 GUEST OF HONOUR’S SPEECH

Governors, Headmaster, staff, pupils and guests,

1 Introduction Firstly, I want to thank Mr Allen for inviting me to address you this evening. As you have heard, I work as a barrister, so I am not accustomed to speaking in public … for free. When Mr Allen asked me to come and speak to you today, my first thought was: Me? Really? It was only minutes prior to receiving Mr Allen’s call that I had been in a bit of trouble with the law myself. I was having tea with my good friend Claire Sinton in Primrose Café in Derry. Claire was in class with me here at Foyle. As I was about to order my tea and cake, I received a frantic call from the PSNI.

Was I Charlotte Simpson? Yes Did I own a car with registration number [blah] Yes? Was my car parked on Fountain Street? Yes. Had I applied the handbrake properly? …. No.

The car was rolling towards traffic on the Carlisle Road, when a good samaritan had reported the matter. I sorted the trouble with the car and minutes later received the call from Mr Allen. Consequently, I didn’t think I was in any position to offer advice and guidance to a group of prize winners and graduates!

Ten years have passed since I left Foyle and, like most things in life, it is only after the passing of time, that I fully realise how great this place is. In some ways, while I was here, I took Foyle for granted. When I went to college in Dublin and spoke to others about their schools, I began to appreciate just how lucky I was to have attended Foyle and just how different and unique the school is.

It’s not every school where there are teachers who will give up copious amounts of their free time to ensure that all your pots and pans are spotless and that you are safe in your adventures around Banagher Forest in pursuit of your Duke of Edinburgh award. It’s not every school where there are teachers who will spend lunchtime after lunchtime ensuring that the chorus line in the school show hits the right notes. It’s not every school where teachers are willing to spend lunchtimes doing fitness training and weekends travelling to matches whether it be in rugby, hockey, tennis, cricket or fencing. So, no, not every school is like Foyle.

2 What is good about Foyle? It was only on Sunday that the Irish edition of the Sunday Times contained a big pullout on the Top Schools in the Republic of Ireland. I am sure that a lot of you are familiar with these league tables, presented as a detailed scientific study to tell you which are the best schools in the country. Almost every school in the top 20 was fee paying, with the result that huge swathes of the population simply have no hope of attending the so-called “best” schools for purely economic reasons. On the other hand, in Northern Ireland, everyone has access to a top class education, regardless of their economic background.

Of those top 20 schools – only three were mixed sex. Of those top 20 schools – only one does not have a Catholic ethos. The mixed student population in Foyle, results in

30 a real ethos of diversity throughout the school. When I first came to Foyle, I doubt that I had ever actually met a Protestant and I certainly had not encountered any followers of Sikhism or Bahai. By the end of my first year I could recite the entirety of the Sash my Father Wore and was well versed in the five K’s of Sikhism and the lotus temples of Bahia. I firmly believe that this diversity at Foyle really equipped me for the real world and in particular, for the working world. It equipped me for a world where, in the same week, I might have to advise: a foreign national who has lost his arm in an industrial accident; a Company CEO locked in a bitter boardroom battle; a 19 year old with multiple previous convictions, facing assault charges. It is this diversity that teaches you empathy; it teaches you understanding and it teaches you compassion.

Students at Foyle you are also lucky enough to be taught by some of the best teachers in the province. One thing that really struck me when I first went to university was how many people struggled with the concept of independent learning. They came to university having achieved fantastic results at secondary level but were not equipped with the necessary tools for thinking outside the box, for learning in an environment that simply does not allow for rote learning.

I remember hearing a great story about a Junior Certificate student. At that time, the French oral exam consisted of a series of questions which were invariably the exact same questions year on year. So the first question was Comment tu t’appelle? The second - Quelle age a tu? And so on. He spent all his revision time concentrating on the perfect responses to these questions (and only these questions) and in the correct order. He approached the exam with great confidence but things didn’t go exactly to plan. When the young student came into the exam room, the friendly examiner commented on the weather outside – “il pleut …” It’s raining – to which our friend responded confidently: Je m’appelle John Smith.

Comment tu t’appelle? J’ai quinze ans. Quelle age a tu? J’ai un frère et deux soeurs. Est-que tu a des frères ou de soeurs? J’aime le foot. J’adore Lionel Messi.

This certainly wouldn’t have happened in the French Department in this school as, with all other subjects, we were encouraged to develop a passion for the subject and to think beyond simply passing exams. Although you wouldn’t know that from my awful French pronunciation!

3 Need to grasp the opportunities that you have been presented with. What I am saying is that all of you here today have been given a massive opportunity simply by virtue of the fact that you are a student at Foyle. But as Spiderman knows – with great power, comes great responsibility! And that responsibility is yours: each of you, individually, have a responsibility firstly to realise and appreciate how lucky you all are, and then to grasp the opportunities with which you have been presented.

4 Work hard I have always believed that the best way of grasping opportunity is through hard work. And as prize winners and graduates, all of you here today clearly understand the importance of hard work and you deserve the success you have achieved to date. However, it is really important that you all build on this success and continue to push

31 yourselves. Some of you may have read the book: Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell. For those of you who haven’t, Gladwell examines the factors that contribute to high levels of success. In the book, he devotes a chapter to what he calls the 10,000 hours rule.

His basic thesis is that it takes roughly 10,000 hours of practice to achieve mastery in any field. One of his examples is the Beatles. Many of us think that the greatest band of all time is simply the product of innate talent. However, Gladwell refers to the fact that when they finished school, they went to Hamburg, as 19 year olds, where they played non-stop in all night clubs. So, when other bands were playing maybe 30 minute sets, the Beatles were playing eight hour shifts, seven nights a week in unknown clubs in Northern Germany. By 1964 when they burst onto the international scene, they had played over 1,200 concerts together. It is rare nowadays that any band would play together 1,200 times over an entire career. Yet, the Beatles achieved that by the age of 24.

So keep working towards your own individual 10,000 hours. Many of you won’t know yet what you want to end up working at. When I was your age, I certainly didn’t know what I wanted to be, although I knew that I didn’t want to be a lawyer. There were loads of times during my first few months reading Law at Trinity, that I asked myself what I was doing. However, given the work ethic that was instilled in me at Foyle (and maybe due to my own pride), I put the head down, resisted the urge to go to the Student Union every Tuesday night, and worked hard. I did well in my end of year exams and as a result, I was chosen to spend my third year in Washington & Lee University in Virginia in America. Whilst there, I worked with prisoners on death row, through the Capital Case Clearinghouse Project. It was working on this project that I realised that in fact I did want to be a lawyer. But the point is that it was hard work that ensured that the doors of opportunity remained open for me. It was hard work that enabled me choose to follow a path that really interested me and that has kept me interested and engaged. And if you find a path that really interests you, the work doesn’t actually seem so hard anymore.

5 Conclusion So, in conclusion, I want to congratulate all of you here today. I want to congratulate the teachers and the parents who have all worked so hard to get you where you are today. To the prize-winners: I want to congratulate you on your success. Make a pledge to yourself tonight that you will be here next year and then spend this year working towards that. Continue to take all the opportunities that you are being given by this school.

I want to congratulate all the graduates here today. For those of you who are going into the working world, try to find something you love, which, as I said, will make the work that bit easier. For those of you who are going to university, sign up for everything that interests you and give everything you do 110%, but resist the urge to subsist on a diet of Dolmio Pasta Carbonara; take your make-up off every night no matter how late you are, and whatever you do, make sure to ring home! This is a great school. Remember that as you all go forward. Use it to inspire you to achieve the goals you set yourself. Good luck! Charlotte Simpson

32 Geology Prize - William Lynn, Bethan Heath & Nicole Sloane

Presentation of Lawrence Sword Presentation of Dr. Kanchan Chada Prize to Aaron Feathers to Patrick Leeson

33 Presentation of Lawrence & Mackillop Medals to Alexandra Graham & Patrick Leeson

Sports Awards with President, Headmaster & Chair of Governors

UPDATE ON THE NEW SCHOOL

For more years that I care to recall, those attending the Prize Evening each September were informed about progress and the message didn’t seem to change from one year to the next. It was very difficult to find something new to say as progress had been slow for a variety of reasons, some justified, but many simply down to the pace of bureaucracy.

However, I’m delighted to inform you that tender documentation was issued on Friday, 5 December 2014 to seven large Northern Ireland construction companies who are competing to build the new Foyle College with the tenders closing on Friday, 30 January 2015. Following a period of review and assessment, it is envisaged that the successful tender will be announced in March 2015 with construction commencing shortly afterwards. We are sharing the new site at Limavady Road with Ebrington Primary School, one of our main feeder primary schools. As it is a joint build contract, work on both schools will take place concurrently with Ebrington completing around June 2016 and Foyle College in the Spring of 2017, just in time to celebrate our 400th anniversary.

We hope to be in a position, in conjunction with the construction company, to be able to provide on-line visual updates as the build progresses. Once the contract has been awarded, a further update will be issued.

From an early stage in the design process, it was very obvious that the Department of Education allocated accommodation was insufficient to meet the curricular and extra curricular provision we at Foyle have offered for many years, enhancing the learning experiences of our pupils, best fitting them to face their chosen career path. The cost of providing the additional educational and sporting facilities not covered in the standard schedule of accommodation is significant and can be summarised as follows:

Creation of Archive facility and Former Pupils Suite, that will double as the Board Room £ 469,000

Facility for Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme £ 113,000

Additional sports provision, including kit storage, floodlighting and Astroturf facility £ 187,000

Additional music provision £ 96,000

Additional accommodation including 7 classrooms, 1 laboratory, circulation space, slightly enlarged assembly hall to accommodate whole school assemblies, etc £1,284,000 ______Total £2,149,000 ======

35 As you will also be aware, we have been actively fundraising over the past number of years but at this stage, we are still some £500,000 short of what we need.

The help of the Foyle Family is urgently needed to bridge the gap and if you can support us, please contact the Bursar, Mr. Neil Stewart, at the Senior School who can advise.

Robin Young Chair of Governors

24-26 Carlisle Road,

Londonderry.

Tel: (028) 7126 6994

Email: [email protected] Sproule’s

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LEAVERS’ DESTINATIONS 2014

TERTIARY EDUCATION, COMMERCE, INDUSTRY AND THE PROFESSIONS

Pupils are proceeding to Degree Courses as follows:

Bath Spa University Anna Kilgore

Canterbury Christ Church University Gemma Gfeller

Edinburgh Napier University Holly Boyd

Glasgow Caledonian University Jennifer Orr

Goldsmiths, University of London Luke Scott

Heriot Watt University Niall Adair, Fergus Gibson, Andrew McElhatton, Kyle Miller

Liverpool Hope University Elizabeth Beattie

Liverpool John Moores University Ashleigh McClelland, Adam McClements, Aran Muttu, Jessica Tinney

Loughborough University Gareth Connor

Newcastle University Robert Burton, Stuart Fulton, Samuel McCloskey, Lauren Moore

North West Regional College Jamie Baldrick, Hayden Campbell, Jack Colhoun, Peter Hamilton, Faolan Hanna, Sarah-Louise Harkin, Tom McBride, Ryan Mercer, Laura Smallwoods, Jamie Taylor, Hannah Walker, Jan Warnock

Northumbria University Jordan Barber, Eva Diver

37 Queen’s University Belfast Amy Austin, Lauren Cairns, Daniel Duddy, Aaron Feathers, Jessica Fields, Jack Gibson, Chloe Henry, Patrick Leeson, Julie McBeth, Jack McCleery, Reece McClintock, Samuel McCord, Jack McKay, Shannon Moore, Adam Potts, Jenna Rutherford, Tara Scott, Emma Simpson, Kendra Smyth, Inge Swiegers, Sophie Windebank

Scotland’s Rural College Michael Rankin

Stranmillis University Judith Allen, Rebecca Cummings, Joanna Hawthorne, Chloe McClements, Fraser Millen

Teeside University Jenny Wallace

The Glasgow School of Art Stephen Hamilton

The Manchester Metropolitan University Rheanna McClean

The University of Edinburgh Lois McClements

The University of Essex Rebecca Wilson

The University of Liverpool Reece McMonagle

The University of Stirling Ross Hetherington, Ellen McGonagle

Trinity College Dublin Kevin Callaghan, Hilary Leeson

University College Dublin Alexandra Graham

University College London Rebecca Downey

University of Bath Ethan Smith

University of Glasgow Bronagh Daisley, Mark Wilson

University of Kent David Lecky

University of Leeds Ashleigh Simpson

University of St. Andrews Bethan Heath

University of Sunderland Rebecca McLaughlin

University of Ulster Christian Catterson, James Cole, Aoife Concannon, Rory Cooke, Christopher Doherty, Lauren Hyndman, Catherine Keys, Hannah Lecky, Jamie Lynch, Kelly McClintock, Jason McFaul, Victoria Mercer, Dikeledi Mushapho, Austin Ramsey, Joanne Struthers, Lucy Young

University of Wolverhampton Andrew Quinn

ETT (Electrical Training Trust) Christopher Love

Employment Gary McKinley

Gap Year Yasmin Doherty

(to be confirmed) Peter Doherty, Stephen Kennedy, Aoife McSorley

39 40

Graduations 2014

Queen’s University Belfast Amber Alford BSc (S) Psychology Second Class Hons. Upper Division Amy Beggs BSc (S) Geography Second Class Hons. Upper Division James Boyd MArch (PGT) with Distinction Jamie Brady MEng (UM) Product Design Engineering Second Class Hons. Upper Division Brid Burns BSc (S) Geography Second Class Hons. Upper Division Angela Chi BSc (S) Accounting Second Class Hons. Upper Division Ciara Cooley BSc (S) Psychology Second Class Hons. Upper Division Anesha Crumley BA (MM) History and Social Anthropology Second Class Hons. Upper Division Matthew Doak BSc (S) Environmental Planning Second Class Hons. Lower Division Holly Donaghey BSc (S) Geography Second Class Hons. Upper Division Molly Duddy BSc (S) Pharmaceutical Studies Second Class Hons. Upper Division Craig Duncan BEng (S) Electrical & Electronic Engineering Second Class Hons. Lower Division Marc Fleming BSc (S) Geography Second Class Hons. Upper Division Matthew Gillespie BSc (S) Land Use & Environmental Management Second Class Hons. Upper Division Mark Hutchinson BSc (S) Accounting First Class Honours Kate Jackson MB (S) Medicine With Distinction in at least one subject Lee McClements BSc (S) Accounting Second Class Hons. Lower Division Matthew Peilow BSc (S) Architecture Second Class Hons. Upper Division Nicholas Simpson MB (S) Medicine Pass Luke Simpson MSci (UM) Physics First Class Honours

University of Ulster Laura Bankhead BSc Speech Therapy Second Class Hons. Upper Division Grant Buchanan BSc Technology with Design Second Class Hons. Lower Division Christopher Doherty BMus Music Second Class Hons. Upper Division Jamie Garfield BA Architecture Second Class Hons. Lower Division Suzanne Hamilton BSc Radiography (Diagnost) Second Class Hons. Lower Division Corey Hanna BA Irish Language & Literature Second Class Hons. Upper Division Amanda Jackson BSc Business Studies with Opts Second Class Hons. Lower Division Shannen Jefferson BSc Psychology Second Class Hons. Upper Division Holly Johnstone BSc Business Studies with Opts First Class Honours Rachael Jordan BSc Lang & Ling with Couns First Class Honours Rachel Kane BSc Social Politics with Sociology Second Class Hons. Upper Division

41 Lee Kitson BSc Sports Studies DPP Second Class Hons. Lower & Comm. Simon Logue BSc Quantity Surveying DPP Second Class Hons. Upper Division Peter Lynas BSc Financial Engineering Second Class Hons. Upper & Comm. Andrew Magee BSc Computer Science First Class Hons. & Commendation Letitia Magee BA Architecture First Class Honours Jodie Masterson MPharm Pharmacy Second Class Hons. Upper Division Sharon McCafferty BSc Occupational Therapy Second Class Hons. Upper Division Samuel McDaid BSc Geography DIAS Second Class Hons. Upper Division Naomi McGinley BA Irish History & Society Second Class Hons. Lower Division Patrick McKenna BSc Building Survey First Class Hons. & Commendation Heather Miller BSc Environmental Science DIAS Pass with Commendation Jason Nurse LLB Law Second Class Hons. Upper Division Thomas Stockman BSc Creative Comp. Second Class Hons. Upper & Comm. Grace Uitterdijk BMus Music Second Class Hons. Upper Division Philip Wallace BA Creative Technology First Class Honours Philip Warnock BEng Mechanical Engineering Second Class Hons. Lower Division Thomas Wray BSc Geography Third Class Honours

University of Bath Grace-Anna Hay BSc Architecture Second Class Hons. Upper Division

University of Edinburgh Olivia Goodman BMus Music Honours

Barts and the London School of Medicine Adam McDermott MBBS Medicine & BMEDFCI Molecular Therapeutics

Stranmillis University College Rachel McElhatton BA Early Childhood Studies Second Class Hons. Upper Division

University of Lancaster Lydia Love Bachelor of Education

University of Northumbria Hannah Patton Bachelor of Education

Imperial College, London Peter Brown MSc Mining Geology

Note: Not all universities furnish us with their lists of graduates. If you wish to have a graduation included, please send us details using one of the contact addresses supplied.

Notices Births To Richard and Samantha Buchanan, a daughter, Charlotte Elizabeth, a sister for Finn. Richard and Samantha live in Brisbane, Australia.

2 July 2014 to née Ray and Nicola Davies Smallwoods, a daughter, Erin Elizabeth, a little sister for Megan.

To David and Bronwen Fleming, a daughter, Alex.

To Dave and Gillian Homan née Craig, a son, Ben, a brother for Alex.

To Garvin and Carmen Hunter, a daughter, Audrey Jean.

To Ian and Julia McLernon née Hunter, a son, David-John William, a brother for Alexander.

To Clifford and Emma Palmer née Hunter, a daughter, Arabella Clementine Alice, a sister for Lucinda.

To Mike and Gemma Ryan née Fleming, a son, Noah, a brother for Matt.

Marriages 12 December 2014 - Buchanan, George, son of the late John and Mrs Elizabeth Buchanan, Elagh House, to Ashleigh Peters of South Shiels, N England. The wedding took place at Burt Presbyterian Church.

19 December 2014 - Craig, Emma, youngest daughter of Roy and Sylvia Craig, to Jimmy Larkin of County Clare. The wedding took place in Ballina, Co Mayo. The couple have returned to work in Sydney, Australia.

Notes and News James Fleming is Senior Vice President and Marshall Kilgore, Junior Vice President of City of Derry Rugby Football Club.

William Lynn has written a series of geological guides for the Causeway Coast and Glens of Antrim Environmental Group. The guides were launched at a reception at Stormont in September. He is currently writing a guide on the built heritage and geology of the building stones of Draperstown and Moneymore for the Sperrin Gateway Environmental Group.

Sean McCarter captained the Clipper yacht, Derry/Londonderry, which successfully completed the round the world race finishing fourth at the finish line at Tower Bridge, London, in July. Sean was highly commended for rescuing one of his crew who fell overboard in high seas during the transatlantic leg of the race.

Helen McDonnell née Campbell has been elected President of Londonderry Rotary Club. Helen is the club’s first lady President.

Frank Orr (Foyle College/Foyle and Londonderry College, 1973-1980) was awarded the Queen’s Ambulance Service Medal (QAM) in the 2014 Queen's birthday honours list. Frank, who was the first ever Ambulance Paramedic in the Western area of Northern Ireland, has served in the Ambulance Service for 30 years. He is currently the Area Manager, in charge of Operations in the Western Division. The QAM is awarded for Distinguished Service and Frank is only the third person to have received the award in Northern Ireland.

Billy Platt’s 322-page book on the History of Cricket at Foyle College (including Londonderry Academical Institution and Foyle and Londonderry College) from 1863 to 2014 was published in mid December last year.

The detailed season by season story of cricket at the schools is ably recorded and over 50 team photographs with all personnel identified, help to preserve, together with the text, a corner of cricket that might easily have been lost. The book, which was printed at the author’s expense along with financial assistance from a number of ex pupils, relations and friends, was published in a limited edition of 110 copies. Books on schools’ cricket are rare enough, so it is agreeable to find Mr Platt producing a valuable addition to the somewhat sparse literature on schools’ cricket here in Northern Ireland, especially as the arrival of the twentieth century saw cricket becoming increasingly recognised as making a big contribution to school life.

History of Cricket at Foyle College (including Londonderry Academical Institution and Foyle and Londonderry College) tells, through faithful research and with great accuracy, a 150 year story of infinite twists and turns, in which the great names of the game at the schools are recalled along with scorecards on many of the outstanding matches played down through the years, including Foyle College’s dismissal for one run and their match against a Military XI that included English Test player Hedley Verity.

A few of the 110 copies printed are available to purchase from Mr Platt, 56 Ballycairn Road, Coleraine, BT51 3HX at £15 per copy plus £2 postage and package, if necessary. All proceeds from the book are being donated to the SANDS charity (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society).

44 Baptism of Charlotte Elizabeth Buchanan Wedding of George Buchanan & Ashleigh Peters

Buchanan Brothers & Wives Wedding of Emma Craig & Jimmy Larkin at George’s Wedding

Madhvi’s Indian Wedding Jaish’s Indian-Chinese Wedding

45 HISTORY OF CRICKET AT LONDONDERRY ACADEMICAL INSTITUTION, FOYLE COLLEGE AND FOYLE AND LONDONDERRY COLLEGE.

1863 to 2014.

By W. H. W. Platt

46 Fire Alarms CCTV Systems Intruder Alarm Systems Domestic, Commercial & Industrial

Unit 26 Glendermott Valley Business Park, Waterside, Londonderry. BT47 3LR Tel: (028) 7134 7699

Obituaries

Jennifer Anne Balmer Jennifer Wray was born on 23 June 1949 and attended Londonderry High School from 1960 until 1967. She joined the Civil Service in November of that year.

After two years she left the Civil Service and married Mike Balmer in Redcar, England, where her two children, Joanne and Graeme, were born in 1969 and 1972. She returned to live in Northern Ireland in 1973 and worked part-time in her father’s post office at Rosemount.

She rejoined the Civil Service 1990 and worked in their Waterloo Street office. Over the years she worked in various offices in Limavady and the Waterside, finishing in Omagh as the manager of the Benefits Office. While in the Civil Service she undertook a part-time degree in Business Studies. She took early retirement in 1998.

She loved spending weekends in the caravan at Dunfanaghy or watching rugby at the City of Derry Rugby Club.

Jennifer died on 13 November 2014.

Dr Gladys Elizabeth Black Gladys Elizabeth Black died peacefully on 6 December 2013, in York House Residential Home, Portrush, where she had been living for a number of years.

As the eldest child of Mary and James Houston, Gladys was born in 1916, in Letterbratt House, Plumbridge, in the Glenelly valley. Later she came to live in the home place of the Steens at Castletoothery, Coleraine. From Letterbratt Public Elementary School she was awarded a boarding scholarship to Londonderry High School. On the result of the Senior Certificate Examination she won a scholarship to Trinity College, Dublin, but she decided to accept a place at London University’s Central School of Speech and Drama.

At 80 years of age she was awarded a PhD from University of Ulster for research based on the use of drama as a method of introducing children with colloquial speech to spoken Standard English.

Her teaching career began with part-time work in Dalriada Grammar School, Ballymoney Technical College, Armagh Girls’ High School, Regent House Grammar School, Newtownards, and as a lecturer in Belfast’s theological colleges, Edgehill and Assembly’s. This proved a good foundation for her later appointment as lecturer, then senior lecturer in the English Department of Stranmillis College where her speciality was Speech and Drama.

In 1942 she married Rev Stewart Black, initially minister of Largy and then Garnerville Presbyterian Churches. She entered acceptably into the life of those congregations while also serving the wider work of the presbyterian church on the executive committee of the Women’s Home and Foreign Missions.

Following the deaths of her son, David, and her husband, almost 30 years ago, she settled in the Coastguard Cottage, Portballintrae. She was elected councillor for Coleraine Borough Council and later became the first woman to be Mayor of Coleraine at a difficult time of unrest in the country due to the Anglo-Irish Agreement.

Though she visited in Europe, Africa, Asia, Canada and the USA, she was happiest at home. In later years her retirement was happily spent in Portballintrae where she wrote her book A Tale that is Told. She enjoyed reading, researching, playing bridge, walking her dog and participating in church and local affairs.

She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Boyd and Patricia Black, her daughter and son-in-law, Elizabeth and Clive Miller, her grandson, Stewart Miller, his wife Helen, and their two sons, Ruairi and Patrick, and grandson Stephen Miller and his partner, Makoto Bruderer.

Canon Gerald (Gerry) James Alexander Carson Gerry Carson was born on 7 September 1924, the son of Alexander and Olga Carson who lived at Lifford, Co Donegal. He entered Foyle College on 6 September 1937 and was a boarder. He played on the First X1 in 1942-3 and was also a Prefect that year. His leaving in June 1943 coincided with the closure of the Boarding Department and Gerry was able to claim he was the last boarder at Foyle. He then went to Magee College and took his BA at TCD in 1949. He was awarded a MA in 1952.

In 1949 he became a Deacon for the Curacy of St Philip’s, Belfast, but in 1951 he returned to Derry as a Curate in the Parish of Templemore. In 1954 he moved to the Diocese of Raphoe when he was instituted as Rector of Kilteevogue. Three years later he changed to the parish of Dunfanaghy where he served for 10 years. In June 1966 he married Sheila Bertenshaw of Larne. He left Co Donegal in 1968 on being appointed Rector of Urney with Sion Mills, where he remained until 1984. He was Diocesan Press Officer for Derry and Raphoe and was made a Canon of Derry Cathedral in 1982. His final appointment was as Rector of Clonallon and Warrenpoint from 1985 until 1990. This move had been precipitated by the devastating bombing of the RUC Police Station which was directly opposite the Sion Mills rectory and which was traumatic for him and his family.

In retirement he moved to Mountsandel and willingly provided pastoral care in the parish of Camus-juxta-Bann. He was also able to take up vacancy duties as they arose. At every service he spoke to as many people as possible, he took an interest in all parish activities and provided support for the sick and the bereaved. On the 29 June this year he had been ordained as a Deacon for 65 years.

Gerry Carson had many lifelong interests, was a keen fisherman, a boating enthusiast and a highly talented artist using both the paint brush and the palette knife. He liked to paint in oils and many landscapes of Co Donegal now remain as memorials of his artistic abilities. Canon Gerry Carson died in the Causeway Hospital on 15 July 2014. The funeral service was held in Macosquin Parish Church on 18 July and he was buried in Killult Parish Churchyard, Falcarragh, Co Donegal. He was pre-deceased by Sheila and is survived by his son Mark.

49 Thomas Edgar Cooke Edgar Cooke was born on 24 January 1935. He was educated at Foyle College, Londonderry, from 1947 until 1953. He was captain of Foyle College Medallion XV 1949-50 and was a member of the athletics team from 1950 until 1953, holding the post of secretary of athletics in 1952. Edgar was the winner of the Victor Ludorum. He won the 1 Mile, 800 yards High Jump and Triple Jump, and was 2nd in the All Ireland 880 yards.

Edgar studied at Stranmillis College from 1953 until 1956 where his passionate interest in athletics and rugby continued. He represented the Senior Northern Ireland Amateur Association in the 880 yards and won the trials for the Commonwealth Games in 1958. He also played rugby for Stranmillis First XV for three years (winners of the Junior Cup). In 1956 Edgar graduated and continued to play rugby for CIYMS, Ballyclare and Londonderry teams.

His interest in education continued and he attended evening studies at Queens University, Belfast, obtaining a BSc (Econ) in 1968, a Diploma in Education and a Diploma in Religious Studies. His devotion to teaching and his deep Christian faith led him to study part-time at Ulster University, Jordanstown, from which he graduated with a BEd in 1987 and an MEd in 1990. He was Principal of Mossley Primary School for 25 years and was dedicated to the provision of the best education possible for his pupils.

In 1987 Edgar and some parents and teachers from Mossley Primary School and Monkstown Community School took the pipe band to Sydney, Australia, where they won 5 world championships at the Festival of Tartans. Edgar’s other interests were golf, bowls and gardening.

Edgar met his devoted wife, Anne, at Stranmillis College in his first month there, 61 years ago. They were married for 56 years and have one daughter (a doctor) and two grandchildren (both graduates in Finance and Accountancy).

Edgar died peacefully at home on 23 September 2014, aged 79 years. His family and friends, who deeply regret his passing, describe him as a ‘true gentleman’.

Dr Norman Richard Daly BSc MSc PhD Norman Daly was born on 22 January 1928, the son of Richard Daly who lived at 11 Nicolson Terrace. He entered Foyle College on 2 September 1942 and left four years later to study Physics at QUB. He graduated with a First Class Honours BSc in 1949 and after further research, he obtained an MSc in 1950. In 1953 Queen’s awarded him a PhD and he was appointed as a Lecturer in Physics. He then moved to England where he enjoyed a distinguished career in Nuclear Physics at the Harwell Atomic Research Facility. Following retirement, he returned to Northern Ireland and renewed friendships with his fellow pupils from Foyle.

Dr Norman Daly died on 1 August 2014 and his funeral service took place on 7 August at Roselawn Crematorium. He is survived by his wife, Delma, son Richard and daughter Alison.

50 James Hugh Young Fergusson Hugh Fergusson was born on 3 December 1934, the son of Hugh Fergusson of 2 Derg Villas, Strabane. He entered Foyle College on 3 September 1947, was in the Dramatic Society and in his last year he played rugby for the 3rd XV and was a Prefect. Coming from the Prior School, Lifford, he played hockey, and in 1953 he captained the only official hockey team ever known to have represented our school. Until 1978 he continued his hockey career with the Strabane Hockey Club, playing for both the 1st and 2nd X1s, and later he was the Chairman and Honorary Secretary. He served as an administrator with the N W District Committee of the Ulster Branch of the Irish Hockey Union where he was Honorary Secretary between 1960 and 1969.

Hugh entered the Petty Sessions Service of N I in 1954, and was made the Clerk of the Petty Sessions at Strabane, Castlederg and Newtownstewart in 1959. Donemana, Plumbridge and Gortin were added shortly afterwards and in 1974 he became Clerk of the Petty Sessions at Londonderry. In 1969 he was Chairman of the Petty Sessions Association. With the advent of the N I Court Service in 1980, the Strabane and Limavady Districts were added. In December 1987, he transferred to the Probate and Matrimonial Office of the High Court of Justice in Belfast and became the Probate Officer, a post he held until his retirement. In 1961 he married Lyn.

A life-long commitment with the Scout Movement began in 1946 when he joined the First Strabane Scout Group in which he remained active until 1972 when he retired as Scout Leader. He was the County Commissioner for County Tyrone (1974-78), County Londonderry (1979-88), then the District Commissioner for Belfast in 1988 and later the Deputy County Commissioner for Belfast County. He received many awards and in 1987 he was given the highest honour the Scout Movement can bestow, the Silver Wolf.

Hugh was a founder member of the Strabane/Lifford Rotary Club, was its President in 1973-74 and also of the Londonderry Club in 1978-79. When living in Belfast he was a member of the Belfast Rotary Club and was made a Paul Harris Fellow in 1988.

A life member of the FCOBA, Hugh was a dedicated member who served on the Executive Committee, and was appointed to represent the Association on the Board of Governors of FCD in 1975. He continued as a Governor of Foyle and Londonderry College until he moved to Belfast in December 1988. He wrote the Obituaries in the School Magazine until 2005 and while his health permitted he attended the FCOBA dinners. Hugh was the President of the FCOBA in 1994/95 and maintained a life-long interest in the school and in the welfare of its former pupils.

Hugh Fergusson died on 9 August 2014, and a Service of Thanksgiving for his life was held at Roselawn Crematorium on 13 August. He is survived by Lyn, and his son Hubert and daughter Jennifer. His brother John (Jack) Campbell Caldwell Fergusson is an Old Boy of FCD.

Peter William Gerald Fielding Peter Fielding was born on 10 August 1957 the son of Arthur W and Lily Fielding who lived at Millbrook Park, Drumahoe. After attending Christ Church Primary School he entered Foyle College on 1 September 1969. He left in June 1974 and

51 joined the RUC Cadets prior to becoming a RUC Officer. Peter was attached to the Magherafelt District and it was during his service there that he was injured in a bomb attack on his Police Station. On 24 September 1977 he married Eileen Woods from Portrush and they set up their home in Portstewart.

In November 1981 they emigrated to Australia and following a short period in Brisbane, they settled in Melbourne. In 1984 Peter joined the Victoria Police and had completed 30 years service just before his premature death. Outside of his work he was a keen gardener and even when at home on holiday, he would tend his parents’ garden in Drumahoe.

Peter died suddenly at his home in Melbourne on 6 October 2014. His family are life- long members of the Church of Ireland and a service was held in St Columb’s Cathedral on the 19 October while his funeral service took place in Melbourne the following day.

He is survived by Eileen and his parents, Arthur and Lily. His sister Judith and brother Mark both attended Foyle College.

Dr Bruce Usher Killen Mb Bch BAO Bruce Killen was born on 20 August 1919, the son of Dr J W Killen of Kilderry House, Muff, Co Donegal. He entered the Preparatory school of FCD on 31 August 1925. When he left in June 1938, he proceeded to QUB where he graduated MB Bch BAO in 1946. He then trained as a specialist in Ophthalmology and became a Consultant Ophthalmologist at Wolverhampton. Dr Bruce Killen died on 8 February 2014 and his funeral service was held in East Bolton United Reformed Church on 19 February. He is survived by his wife Betty, his sons, David, Christopher and Jeremy, and his daughter Barbara.

Margaret Rebecca Knox née Aiken Margaret was born at the Mount, Victoria Bridge, Co Tyrone on 19 July 1926, the daughter of Andy and Margaret (Sissy) Aiken. In 1939 the family moved to Coshquin House and Margaret entered Londonderry High School. She left in 1943 to help on the family farm.

In 1948 she married Patrick Knox who was serving in the Royal Engineers and who later worked in civil engineering. Both were talented gardeners and during their 60 year marriage planted several gardens from scratch.

On Pat’s retirement, and with the troubles ongoing, they moved to Sheffield where there son, Robin and daughter, Jennifer, had both qualified in medicine. Their other son, David, carried out veterinary research in Edinburgh

Patrick died in 2009, following a period of ill-health through which Margaret devotedly supported him. One year later with her own health failing, Margaret went to live in Broomcroft Nursing Home in Sheffield.

Margaret Knox died peacefully on 10 February 2014 and is survived by Jennifer, Robin and David.

52 Mrs Evelyn Loughridge Evelyn Huey Kincaid was born on 8 October 1918, youngest child of William and Jessie Kincaid. She grew up in Fairman Place and attended Londonderry High School. Her particular interest was mathematics, particularly algebra, and she gained an award at school. She was a keen needlewoman who used her skills throughout her life. She also enjoyed baking.

Evelyn was a member of First Derry Presbyterian Church and sang in the choir. She was also Brown Owl in the Girl Guide movement. In May 1940, at the age of 21, she married Rev Adam Loughridge, a young minister in the Reformed Presbyterian Church, and moved to the manse in Newtownards. Her children, Allen and Margaret were born there. Ten years later they went to Portrush where she was involved in church and local life. Evelyn was president of the ladies’ missionary group in the church and was also president of the entire association for two years during the 1960s. She joined the Women’s Institute, was a founder member, and held positions on the committee, including becoming the first Chairperson of a newly-formed Home and Garden Committee at executive level. She was a good hostess and supported her husband when he was appointed Professor. They both sang in the Portrush Musical Society in its annual production of the Messiah.

In 1969 they moved to another church in Belfast. Evelyn maintained her link with LHSOGA and on retirement in 1980, they returned to the north coast, initially to Portstewart and then to Portrush. She was able to attend the Coleraine branch meetings, enjoying the friendship with former pupils. She continued to knit, sew and make numerous cross-stitch samplers for relatives and friends, and as wedding presents.

Evelyn enjoyed her grandchildren and followed their careers with interest. Allen’s death in 1995 was a shock, and her husband, Adam, died in 2001. A few years later Evelyn moved to sheltered accommodation in Ballymoney but just over a year later suffered a stroke. She spent some months in hospital and then became resident in the Model Care Home where she appreciated visits from family and friends. She died peacefully on 14 December 2013. Margaret A Lawson (daughter)

William Noel Kenneth (Ken) McClelland Ken McClelland was born on 13 December 1930 the son of Robert S McClelland and the family lived at 23 Rosemount Avenue. He entered Foyle College on 7 September 1943 and played cricket for the 1st XI in 1948. In that year he left Foyle to study at Stranmillis College after which he became a schoolmaster at Clounagh Secondary Intermediate School.

Shortly afterwards he became a businessman and was a pioneer and visionary of the container shipping industry. He rose in that industry to become the Deputy Chairman and Chief Executive of the Coastal Container Group. Ken McClelland died on 1 Margaret Knox died peacefully on 10 February 2014 and is survived by Jennifer, Robin and David.

Mrs Evelyn Loughridge Evelyn Huey Kincaid was born on 8 October 1918, youngest child of William and Jessie Kincaid. She grew up in Fairman Place and attended Londonderry High School. Her particular interest was mathematics, particularly algebra, and she gained an award at school. She was a keen needlewoman who used her skills throughout her life. She also enjoyed baking.

Shortly afterwards he became a businessman and was a pioneer and visionary of the container shipping industry. He rose in that industry to become the Deputy Chairman and Chief Executive of the Coastal Container Group. Ken McClelland died on 1 November 2012 in Swansea and his funeral took place at Swansea Crematorium on the 19 November. Ken is survived by his wife Margaret Llewellyn OBE.

Gerald Milligan Gerald Milligan was born on 10 November 1937, the son of P H W Milligan who lived at 38 Groarty Road, Ballymagroarty.53 He entered Foyle College on 4 September 1950 and left in January 1953 to spend his career in the construction supplies business in Londonderry.

Gerald Milligan died at home on 14 June 2014 and following his funeral service in Christ Church, he was buried in the City Cemetery on 17 June. He is survived by his wife Esther, He also leaves behind a daughter, Janice and sons, David, Stephen and Terence, all of whom are former pupils of Foyle College.

The Rt Hon Sir Robert Wilson Porter QC ‘Beezer’ Robert Porter was born on 13 December 1923, the son of Joseph and Letitia Porter, and the family lived at 97 Creggan Road. He entered Foyle College on 6 September 1938 and soon acquired his nickname which was then a term in common parlance employed to indicate a firm form of approval. Robert used the expression ‘that is beezer’ sufficiently frequently that it would stick with him, but it was only used later by those who were close to him. He played for the First XV in 1942-43 and on leaving Foyle in June 1943 he enlisted in the RAFVR. He served as an air pilot and had the rank of Flying Officer when he was demobilised in 1946. Posted initially to the then Rhodesia, he corresponded with his home congregation of Strand Presbyterian Church whose people supported him by sending out useful items not readily available where he was.

On returning to civilian life, he studied law at QUB and was President of the Students Representative Council in 1949/50. He was the Secretary of the Law Society, and the Secretary of the Boat Club. He graduated in 1949 and was called to the Northern Ireland Bar one year later. After being a Law Lecturer at Queens, he went into practice and from 1963 he was the Counsel for the Attorney General for N Ireland. During that time he assisted in the prosecution of a number of murder cases. In 1965, he took silk, and one year later he was made the Head of the Inquiry into the Acquisition of Lands for the new town of Craigavon. Robert was elected as an MP for QUB in 1966 and when the university franchise was abolished, he became the Unionist MP for Lagan Valley. They returned him unopposed in February 1969. Following a short period as Minister for Health and Social Services, Terence O’Neill made him Minister of Home Affairs on 12 March 1969, and he also joined the Northern Ireland Privy Council. With the resignation of Terence O’Neill, and his replacement by Robin Chichester-Clark, Robert stayed at Home Affairs. As the Province spiralled into civil strife, with the increasing violence and personal threats to him and his family, Robert Porter held on until 26 August 1970, when he resigned. In 1971 he was Knighted and in 1972, after he resigned from the Ulster Unionist Party, he returned to the Bar and resumed his legal career. He became the Recorder of Londonderry, then County Court Judge in Armagh and later the Recorder of Belfast.

November 2012 in Swansea and his funeral took place at Swansea Crematorium on the 19 November. Ken is survived by his wife Margaret Llewellyn OBE.

Gerald Milligan Gerald Milligan was born on 10 November 1937, the son of P H W Milligan who lived at 38 Groarty Road, Ballymagroarty. He entered Foyle College on 4 September 1950 and left in January 1953 to spend his career in the construction supplies business in Londonderry.

When younger, Robert Porter played for CDRFC, and he was a Vice-President of the Club from 1998. Robert always retained a great affection for the city of his birth and its people. In 1972 he was the President of the FCOBA, and was a regular attender at our annual dinners. Blessed with a good baritone voice, he could sometimes be persuaded to give a fine rendition of a Percy French song or one learned in his youth at a family gathering. At the 2006 FCOBA dinner he sang ‘Give me the London with the Derry to its Tail’, which he later revealed54 he had first heard his mother sing in the 1930s.

In 1953 he married Margaret Lynas. He was involved with many charities including the Multiple Sclerosis Society, served on the Executive Committee of the Council of Social Service, and was a Life Member of the RAF Association and the British Legion. He accumulated a number of Trustee positions, including that of the Ulster Museum.

During the last year of his life he suffered ill-health and was nursed in the Somme Nursing Home until his death on 25 May 2014. A Service of Thanksgiving for his life was held in the Parish Church of Holy Trinity, Drumbo, on 29 May. Robert Porter was predeceased by Margaret and his daughter Helen. He is survived by his daughter Kathryn and his son Robert. Both sisters, Edna and Audrey, are Old Girls of LHS.

Mrs Esther Rose Scobie Esther Scobie was born on 3 November 1940, the elder daughter of William and Jeannie Moore of Prehen. She attended Clooney Primary School and the Londonderry High School from 1952. On gaining entry to Stranmillis Training College, she undertook the four year course with English as her main subject but also specialising in Spanish and Drama. During the first two years she stayed in the South Bungalow Hostel where she was the Head Prefect in her second year. Active in the Bible Union, she was the college representative and attended many meetings of the Bible Union in the other colleges and universities of the UK as a national delegate. She continued to nurture her love of English and Poetry and during her life she would write poetry, often based on her personal experiences.

After leaving Stranmillis, she married Harold Scobie. She became a teacher at Killymallaght Primary School before moving to Newbuildings Primary School a few years later. Here she also helped train the choirs and the orchestra while developing the musical aspects of education. Esther loved her work, was a dedicated and conscientious teacher whose tireless endeavours were recognised when she was made Deputy Head of the school. In 2000, she retired and the family moved to Drumahoe.

Esther was a member of Kilfennan Presbyterian Church where she was an Elder, sang in the choir, helped with the floral arrangements and could be depended upon to support the church activities. To help the church’s involvement in Kenya, she published her book, Joy in the Morning with the proceeds going to further the work of the Cowans, the PCI missionaries there.

Esther Scobie died in hospital on 11 April 2014, and a Service of Thanksgiving for her life was held in Kilfennan Presbyterian Church on the 17 April. She was predeceased by her son, Victor, but is survived by Harold and her children Trevor, Peter, When younger, Robert Porter played for CDRFC, and he was a Vice-President of the Club from 1998. Robert always retained a great affection for the city of his birth and its people. In 1972 he was the President of the FCOBA, and was a regular attender at our annual dinners. Blessed with a good baritone voice, he could sometimes be persuaded to give a fine rendition of a Percy French song or one learned in his youth at a family gathering. At the 2006 FCOBA dinner he sang ‘Give me the London with the Derry to its Tail’, which he later revealed he had first heard his mother sing in the 1930s.

Esther Scobie died in hospital on 11 April 2014, and a Service of Thanksgiving for her life was held in Kilfennan Presbyterian Church on the 17 April. She was predeceased by her son, Victor, but is survived by Harold and her children Trevor, Peter, Jonathan and Naomi, and her sister Dorothy. Dorothy attended the LHS, and Jonathan and Naomi are former pupils of Foyle and Londonderry College.

Dr John Brian Taylor John Brian Taylor was born on 27 July 1924. His father, James, was a civil servant and John entered Foyle College on 2 September55 1941 and spent a year at the school. He was an active sportsman, playing for both 1stXV and 1st IX.

He qualified in Medicine Mb BCh and BAO at Queen’s University Belfast in 1948, gained a Diploma from the Royal College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology in 1951 and a Diploma in Child Health from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1952. He then became a General Practitioner, took over a practice in Paignton with his wife, Dr Bryony Taylor née Reid, and they mostly spent their careers in Devon. John became chairman of the District Medical Committee and carried out research into Pre-Eclampsia, a serious complication in pregnancy. He was also the Church Warden of his local church.

John’s main hobby was sailing and he would spend holidays sailing off the coast of France and the West Coast of Scotland and Ireland. Of his three children, Ann, Michael and Peter, two became doctors and one a dentist.

Dr John Brian Taylor died on 20 October 2014.

John Desmond Thompson LLB Desmond Thompson was born on 8 May 1927, the son of James Thompson who lived at 31 Rock Road. He entered Foyle College initially to attend the Preparatory Department on 2 September 1933. On reaching the Senior School, he distinguished himself as a cricketer, and played for the First X1 in 1944. On leaving the school in June 1944 he went to QUB and graduated with an LLB in 1947. He then established himself as a solicitor in Londonderry and spent his whole career in legal practice. His main recreation was sailing.

Desmond Thompson died on 19 February and his funeral service took place in St Columb’s Cathedral on 21 February, followed by burial in Ballyoan Cemetery. He was the husband of the late Heather, and is survived by his sons Alan and Garry.

Malcolm Hy Frazer Wilkinson Malcolm Wilkinson was born on 15 June 1932, the son of Malcolm Frazer and Bet Wilkinson of The Farm, Culmore Road. He entered Foyle College on 4 September 1946 and took part in the productions of the Dramatic Society. When he left in June 1949 he joined the family firm, the Black Bear Shirt Manufacturing Company. Later, with the selling of the business, the family moved to Scotland, and Malcolm worked with Welsh Margetson and later with Marks & Spenser. He was actively involved with the CDRFC from 1949. His mother was the first Lady Vice-President of the Club and Malcolm was its Honorary Match Secretary between 1956 and 1959. In 1951/52 he was Captain of the Second XV, and Captain of the Third XV in 1955/56.

Jonathan and Naomi, and her sister Dorothy. Dorothy attended the LHS, and Jonathan and Naomi are former pupils of Foyle and Londonderry College.

Dr John Brian Taylor John Brian Taylor was born on 27 July 1924. His father, James, was a civil servant and John entered Foyle College on 2 September 1941 and spent a year at the school. He was an active sportsman, playing for both 1stXV and 1st IX.

Dr John Brian Taylor died on 20 October 2014.

Malcolm Wilkinson died on 25 July 2014 and is survived by his wife Frances, son David and daughter Diane. Frances (née Clements) attended the LHS and his brothers Arthur and Henry are Old Boys of Foyle College.

Margaret Young Margaret was born on 12 September 1959,56 the daughter of William and Harriet Young. Her father was a civil servant with the admiralty in Ebrington and Margaret went to Clooney Primary School. She entered Londonderry High School in 1971. She was a prefect in 1977-78 and, having completed her A-Levels, she trained in Nursing and went to work at the Royal Victoria Hospital.

She went as a midwife to Ekwendeni Hospital in Northern Malawi in 1990. Here she felt she had found her true calling and when, on 7 May 1995, she was commissioned for missionary service by the Presbytery of Foyle, she took up the role of second-in- charge of a 72-bed maternity unit. She gave almost nine years of dedicated service to this unit, delivering approximately 3,000 babies annually. In 2000 she was in charge of the unit and was also teaching midwifery.

In 2004 she came home and spent a few years working at the Royal Victoria Hospital before again returning to Malawi where she worked in St Luke’s Hospital in Zomba, Southern Malawi. She then spent a year at Daeyang Luke Hospital in the capital, Lilongwe, where set up the maternity department.

In 2009 she came home to Londonderry and went to work in Altnagelvin Hospital. In her early years Margaret had been a teacher in Sunday School, was in the Junior Bible Club and the Girls’ Brigade in her home congregation of Glendermott. While in Zomba she had started a Sunday school class for 80 children and when she returned home she continued to knit small cardigans and baby clothes which she sent out to Africa.

On 1 November 2013 she was diagnosed with a brain tumour and, as the disease progressed, she had to stop working. Margaret died on 1 November 2014 and following a service at here home on 4 November she was buried at Glendermott Presbyterian Church grounds. She is survived by her mother, her sister, Anne, and her brother, Samuel.

Eulogy given to Junior School pupils in Assembly November 2014 Margaret Young I wish to pay tribute to a quiet, unassuming, former Londonderry High School lass whom I met in a Mission hospital in Malawi fifteen years ago. Margaret Young, who worked as a midwife with astounding selflessness and dedication, has passed away. Although not a Head Girl or Captain of Hockey, I remembered Margaret from school as an older pupil who left an impression on me. Twenty-plus years later I met her again.

Just before I began teaching at Foyle College, I travelled out to west Africa to a Presbyterian Malawian Mission Hospital during the summer holidays with friends. We had collected up some money to build a play area for children, and teach women how to dye cloth and sew garments. To my great surprise, I received a tap on my arm from Margaret who had been working in Ekwendeni Mission Hospital for some years. Malcolm Wilkinson died on 25 July 2014 and is survived by his wife Frances, son David and daughter Diane. Frances (née Clements) attended the LHS and his brothers Arthur and Henry are Old Boys of Foyle College.

Margaret Young Margaret was born on 12 September 1959, the daughter of William and Harriet Young. Her father was a civil servant with the admiralty in Ebrington and Margaret went to Clooney Primary School. She entered Londonderry High School in 1971. She was a prefect in 1977-78 and, having completed her A-Levels, she trained in Nursing and went to work at the Royal Victoria Hospital.

Just before I began teaching at Foyle College, I travelled out to west Africa to a Presbyterian Malawian Mission Hospital during the summer holidays with friends. We had collected up some money to build a play area for children, and teach women how to dye cloth and sew garments. To my great surprise, I received a tap on my arm from Margaret who had been working in Ekwendeni Mission Hospital for some years. ‘Hello’, she said, ‘I hear you like art, would you like to paint me a poster to show the warning signs for pregnant illiterate women?’ Of course I did. However, it was via this task that I got a glimpse of Margaret's incredible work where she gave thousands of pregnant women the chance of a safer, more hygienic delivery than they would ever have had without her.

I needed a table to work at, which had a re57liable light. Margaret said I could paint in her house although she was working most evenings. The next night I went to collect Margaret’s front door key from her in the hospital. Once I entered the Maternity Clinic I was in a unique and ordered world. First, I passed by a room which was full of large plastic basins with a hot water bottles rolled up in blankets in each. Nestling on top of these blankets snuggled three or four wrapped up little babies, incubating in the warmth of each other and the bottles. On the other side of the corridor was a room with women sitting on the floor expressing milk. I ventured on, passing by heavily pregnant women waiting on the occasional hospital bed lined up in a wide corridor. Finally, I met a nurse who seemed to know I was coming. I was shown a chair to sit on nearby a curtain where I could wait for Margaret. Ten minutes went by. I tapped out a little tune on the floor and thought about the day just past, full of meetings with other extraordinary Ekwendeni people and staff. Then, all of a sudden, out swept Margaret pirouetting through the curtain with a tiny new born head cupped in her hand with its body resting along her arm. ‘I’m just going to weigh this little one, be back in a moment with the key,’ she said, and she was. But as the curtains fluttered still again I caught sight of the mother lying on a hospital bed only metres away from me, still silent and breathing deeply.

To this day, I still think of what this one encounter meant. How this unique event to me, happened routinely, hourly, nightly, monthly and yearly, categorised and documented under the different names of so many safely born children and supported mothers. I’m sure Margaret is a name like Grace or Mercy which, like her memory, will live on in that region of Malawi and beyond.

The following recent deaths are announced and details will be published in the next edition of the magazine.

Susan Thomas George Robert Acheson died 7 January 2015 Richard Stanley Moore died 8 January 2015 David Reid Marshall died 16 December 2014

‘Hello’, she said, ‘I hear you like art, would you like to paint me a poster to show the warning signs for pregnant illiterate women?’ Of course I did. However, it was via this task that I got a glimpse of Margaret's incredible work where she gave thousands of pregnant women the chance of a safer, more hygienic delivery than they would ever have had without her.

I needed a table to work at, which had a reliable light. Margaret said I could paint in her house although she was working most evenings. The next night I went to collect Margaret’s front door key from her in the hospital. Once I entered the Maternity Clinic I was in a unique and ordered world. First, I passed by a room which was full of large plastic basins with a hot water bottles rolled up in blankets in each. Nestling on top of these blankets snuggled three or four wrapped up little babies, incubating in the warmth of each other and the bottles. On the other side of the corridor was a room with women sitting on the floor expressing milk. I ventured on, passing by heavily pregnant women waiting on the occasional hospital bed lined up in a wide corridor. Finally, I met a nurse who seemed to know I was coming. I was shown a chair to sit on nearby a curtain where I could wait for Margaret. Ten minutes went by. I tapped out a little tune on the floor and thought about the day just past, full of meetings with other‘Hello’, extraordinary she said, ‘I hearEkwendeni you like pe art,ople would and youstaff. like Then to paint, all ofme a a suddenposter ,to out show swept the warning‘Hello’,Margaret shesigns pirouetting said, for ‘Ipregnant hear through you illiterate like the acurtainrt, women?’ would with you aOf like tiny course to new paint I borndid. me Hahead oposterwever cupped to, it show was in herviathe thiswarninghand task with signsthat its Ibody forgot pregnant aresting glimpse alongilliterate of Margaret's her women?’arm. incredi‘I’m Ofjustble course going work I to wheredid. weigh H sheo weverthis gave little, thousandsit wasone, viabe ofthisback pregnant task in a that moment women I got awith glimpsethe thechance key, of Margaret's’of she a sasafer,id, incrediand more she blehygienic was. work But wheredelivery as the she curtainsthan gave they thousands fluttered would everofstill pregnant againhave hadI caughtwomen without sight the her. ofchance the mother of a safer, lying moreon a hospitalhygienic bed delivery only metres than they away would from everme, stillhave silent had withoutand breathing her. deeply. I needed a table to work at, which had a reliable light. Margaret said I could paint in herIT oneeded thishouse day a althoughtable, I still to think workshe was ofat ,what whichworking this had onemost a reencounter evenings.liable light. meant. The Margaret next How night saidthis I uniqueIwent could to evpaint collectent toin Margaret’sherme, househappened although front routinely, door she keywas hourly, fromworking her nightly, mostin the evenings. hmonthlyospital. The Onceand next yearly,I nightentered categorisedI wentthe Maternityto collect and ClinicMargaret’sdocumented I was front underin a uniquedoor the differentkey and from ordered names her world.in of the so manyhFirst,ospital. safelyI passed Once born by I childrenaentered room whichandthe Maternitysupported was full ofClinicmothers. large I wasplastic I’m in sure basinsa unique Margaret with and a orderedhotis a watername world. bottlelike Grace sFirst, rolled orI passedup Mercy in blankets by which a room ,in like each. which her memory Nestlingwas full, onofwill largetop live of plasticon these in that basinsblankets region with snuggled of a Malawi hot water three and bottleor beyond. fours rolled wrapped up inup blankets little babies, in each. incubating Nestling in

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59 President’s Profile

Lowry Cunningham Born in 1946, I was raised on the family farm in the townland of Cullion about three miles from Donemana, and attended Killymallaght Primary School.

In 1957, having passed the Qualifying, I arrived in Foyle College for what turned out to be seven very enjoyable and rewarding years. Cricket and rugby occupied much of my time, playing for the School 1st X1 and 1st XV and, when possible, cricket for Donemana. Occasionally this may have been to the detriment of the main event, studying!

Along with Stan Mitchell, I was selected to play for Irish Schools in 1963 and ‘64, captaining the team in the inaugural match against Welsh Schools at the Mardyke in Cork. In my last year at school I had the honour of being Deputy Head Boy.

In 1964 it was off to Queens University to study Agriculture. Predictably, sport was to the fore and I was awarded Blues in rugby and cricket, and captained the 1st X1 in 1968. Along the way, tours to England, East Africa and France were memorable experiences. A degree was obtained and employment secured with Richardson’s Fertilisers in Sales and Marketing. During my eight years there I joined the Ulster Grassland Society, Royal Ulster Agricultural Society and Northern Ireland Institute of Agricultural Science which I later chaired.

After gaining valuable business experience with Richardson’s, then one of the largest and most progressive agri companies in the province, I moved to Bank of Ireland as their Agricultural Adviser for Northern Ireland and Britain. This led to various management roles in Retail Banking and board membership of several agri and rural related businesses.

Throughout the years my interest in sport continued. I played for City of Derry, Coleraine and Bangor where I captained the 1st X1 and more recently served as Club President.

In 1974, my wife, Liz, and I moved from Portstewart to Bangor where we still reside. We are fortunate to have three sons, Jan, Ross and Bryn, all of whom are married, and seven fine grandchildren ranging in age from two years to twelve. Ross and his family live in England while the others have remained in Northern Ireland.

After retiring, I became self-employed working with several organisations in the Agri and Financial sectors and I am currently a non executive director of a company operating in the beef industry. Combined with grandparenting duties and sporting interests, my time is well occupied.

The role of Joint President of Foyle College FPA is an unexpected honour and privilege, giving me the opportunity to serve the Association and, hopefully, repay in some small way the great debt I owe my alma mater.

Vice Presidents’ Profiles

Ann Watson I was born in Edinburgh and lived in the Borders on a hill farm 11 miles from Jedburgh and two miles from the English/Scottish border. My primary school education was in very small rural schools (in one of these the total number of pupils was seven!!). During the 1960s many of these small rural schools were closed down and I had to travel to Jedburgh to Park Side Primary School.

In the late ‘60s my parents, my brother and myself moved to Londonderry. My brother, Ian, attended Model Primary School and I attended Templemore Secondary School for 1 year before transferring to Londonderry High School in September 1967. I really enjoyed my 6 years at LHS where I made many good friends, most of whom I am still in touch with today.

After A-Levels, I studied at Gloucestershire College of Education for three years to become a Home Economics Teacher. I left with a Certificate of Education and took up a teaching position in Birmingham where I remained for almost a year. I then returned to Northern Ireland and took up a temporary teaching post at Donemana Primary School. While there, a position for a Teacher of Home Economics came up at Foyle and Londonderry College and I was delighted to get the positon in my old school where I worked with Kathleen McConnell for many years. During my early years teaching at Foyle and Londonderry College I undertook an In-service Degree Course in Education through Ulster University at Magee. It was hard work for 3 years, teaching and studying at the same time, but my efforts paid off and I graduated with a Degree in Education. When Kathleen retired I was appointed Head of Department.

I was very much involved with the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme at FLC and spent many weekends camping out in the Sperrins or driving around Donegal. I enjoyed working with the young people outside the classroom as we both saw each other in a new light. I was appointed Head of Year 10 and enjoyed this new role so much that I decided to further my skills in the pastoral area by completing a Counselling Course at NWRC where I gained a Certificate in Counselling.

After 29½ years teaching at Foyle and Londonderry College, I left in December 2007 and took up the positon of Senior Teacher with Altnagelvin Hospital School (now WELB Tuition Service). I am based in Strabane and work with a team of Teachers and Youth Workers, offering education provision for pupils who are unable to attend school due to medical, social, emotional or behavioural difficulties. While it can be very challenging at times, it can also be very rewarding.

I enjoy travelling and over the years I have been to the USA, many parts of Europe, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Vietnam, Thailand and the Azores. China, Japan and South America are still on my ‘to do’ list., so I hope to do a lot more travelling when I retire (but not for a few years yet).

I was lucky enough to be selected for a three-day trip to Scotland on the Derry- Londonderry Clipper in December 2012. I really enjoyed the experience although it

61 was pretty tough going. I don’t know if I could manage a three-week leg on a future race, but you never know!! Watch this Space!!

I was delighted to be asked to be President Elect. In the past I have been involved as a Committee Member in the Old Girls’ Association and I look forward to my new role.

Ann Watson Denis Connolly

62 James Denis Rentoul Connolly I was a pupil at Foyle College from 1949 to 1963. I served as prefect in the years 1960–1 and was Deputy Head Boy in my final year. I considered my examination results unspectacular but they were more than sufficient to allow me to follow a not undistinguished career in medicine and anaesthesia.

I am perhaps prouder of my involvement in the school’s extra-curricular activities. I was a member of the First XV in 1961–3 and captained the team in 1962–3. In athletics I represented the school at all age groups, first in track and later in field events. In swimming I was a member of the school freestyle team from 1960 to 1963. Training for this activity took place under supervision in the William Street pool after school and led to second place in the senior freestyle in 1960 and first in 1961 in the galas run by the Northwest Schools’ Swimming Association. I have memories still of how cold the outdoor pools at Campbell and Portora were, and of a relay race against Coleraine Academical Institution that was held in the plunge at Upper Foyle that lasted just four lengths.

I was a member of the ACF run by George Gillanders and Jack Bogle, with the fearsome Drill Sergeant, Gerry O’Grady, and recall a forced march competition of 50 miles in under 24 hours against American and British servicemen. I was one of a team of six Foyle boys that undertook to walk from Ballymena to Derry. Four of the team made it home in just over 12 hours giving the school second place. I got as far as Dungiven! I was a regular participant in the school debating society, and with enthusiasm but little talent, took part in the Musical and Dramatic Society productions of The Tempest as Alonso, King of Naples, and Hastings in She Stoops to Conquer. And I mustn’t forget my appearance as a first year, in the chorus of The Gondoliers. All in all, I greatly enjoyed my time at Foyle.

I graduated from Queen’s in 1969 and three days later married Patricia Lynas, a fellow medical graduate. We have three sons, (one each in Scotland, London and Limavady) and six grandchildren, and maintain connection with the northwest with a holiday home in Donegal.

In 1970 I began training as an anaesthetist, becoming a Fellow in the Faculty of Anaesthetists of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland in 1973. The post of Consultant Anaesthetist in the Lagan Valley Hospital in Lisburn followed in 1975 and those of Medical Director in the City and Musgrave in Belfast from 1982 and of the Green Park Trust from 1996 to 2007. Other roles include examiner in the Primary FFARCSI examination in the 1990s, clinical lecturer in anaesthesia at Queen’s and president of the British Society of Orthopaedic Anaesthetics from 2003 to 2005.

63 64 Tel: (028) 7134 1947 • Fax: (028) 7131 1150

65 Reports of the Year’s Events

66 Honorary Secretary’s Report As the new association ‘beds’ in, the FCFPA has had an interesting and sometimes challenging year. Over the past 12 months, under the Chairmanship of Mrs Isabel McNally, the association has evolved and started to find its identity.

The committee met on five occasions throughout the year. The proposed BBQ and Jazz Night, now rescheduled to June 2014, took up much of the time. Much focus was given to the best way of moving the association forward, ensuring all needs are catered for. Evolution and change always occur but it is important that tradition and ethos are not compromised. As always the aim of the association remains the same, to maintain and enhance the interest of former pupils, whilst promoting and fostering interest in the present school.

Our Joint Presidents, Mrs Lily Swinson and Mr Billy Young, attended a number of functions throughout the year. Both promoted the new ethos of the association, encouraging attendance by male and female at every function. As with all change, it takes time but it is very encouraging to see joint attendance growing, and we trust this will continue in the coming year.

The first formal event of the year was the Annual Dinner of the association in the City Hotel, with the joint Presidents presiding. Unfortunately, attendance for the second year in a row was disappointing but a most enjoyable evening was had by all. As we move forward, it is imperative that the function meets the needs of the association to ensure it remains a viable event. The timing of our event and the resulting clash with others in the city, has been reviewed by the committee and it will revert back to the last Friday in September, which we hope will result in improved attendance.

The association ‘block-booked’ a number of seats for the school’s production of Little Shop of Horrors. Thanks go to Mr and Mrs N Stewart for organising the pre-show nibbles and refreshments. Although it was a different production from previous years, a very enjoyable evening was had by all.

Our Joint Presidents also attended a number of school functions, including the annual Prizegiving and the Colours Awards Ceremony. Thanks also go to Mrs Joy Coskery and Mr John Black who represented the association at the Service of Remembrance in the school in November.

The newly named Former Pupils’ Association Spring Luncheon and Reunion in the Belfray Country Inn was a most pleasant event. This was followed closely by the Belfast Lunch at Malone Golf Club. It is very encouraging to see the once all-male Belfast Lunch, evolve into a joint function. This template is definitely one to be replicated in the coming months.

The Former Pupils’ Association Magazine was again edited by Miss Laura Taylor. The magazine continues to be published online via the school’s website or is available, for those who prefer a hard copy. Thanks also to Laura for the overseeing of the FPA facebook page, as this page continues to grow at a steady rate with over 800 former pupils now linked to the site. Our thanks are also due to Mrs Jennifer McClintock for her time and effort in the creation of the association’s database.

67 Communication is still an area of challenge for the committee. Trying to balance the old with the new, ensuring events and functions are promoted as widely as possible. The committee continues to strive to get an acceptable balance for all and I would encourage as many former pupils as possible to submit their details to the [email protected] address, so that we can increase the association’s database and contact details. This will hopefully ensure that all are kept up to date with events and news about the school and the association.

After a number of years service, Mrs Barbara Fowler, Mrs Joy Tennis, Mr Gavin Killeen and Mr Brian Long step down from the committee, and I would like to extend our thanks to them for their sterling work over the years.

Finally, a special word of thanks to our Joint Presidents, Lily and Billy. It is always challenging to lead an evolving organisation. Both gave their time willingly and represented the association with integrity and great dignity.

Marshall Kilgore

Incoming & Outgoing Presidents

Members attending AGM 2014

68 Honorary Treasurer’s Report

Foyle College Former Pupils Association Income & Expenditure Account For the Year Ended 31 March 2014

Year Ended Year Ended 31 March 2014 31 March 2013

Magazine Sales 497.00 428.00 Magazine adverts 1,020.00 1,320.00 Sundry Receipts - 41.00 Annual Dinner 1,369.45 1,915.00 Spring Lunch 1,100.00 - Reunion Dinner 1,299.46 - Wine & Cheese evening 265.00 - Sale of merchandise - 45.00 President’s Fund 1,000.00 - Bank Interest - CDBS 83.16 102.25 6,634.07 3,851.25 Expenditure Magazine 1,600.00 1,800.00 Calligraphy 15.00 - Letterheads 39.00 - Annual Dinner 1,580.95 1,905.95 Spring Lunch 1,066.65 - Reunion Dinner 1,200.00 - Wine & Cheese evening 190.04 - Photos 50.00 50.00 Postage 160.15 73.76 Stock movement - 45.00 Bank Fees 99.94 72.91 Corporation Tax 20.20 President’s Fund – Bursaries - -6,021.93 500.00 -4,447.62 Surplus /(Deficit) 612.14 -596.37

Foyle College Former Pupils Association Balance Sheet As at 31 March 2014

31 March 2014 31 March 2013 Current Assets Ulster Bank Limited 5,364.92 5,396.92 Ulster Bank Limited 2,005.40 2,833.87 City of Derry Building Society – President’s Fund 8,909.57 7,826.41 Sundry debtor 89.99 - Stock 1,479.00 1,479.00 17,848.88 17,536.20

Current Liabilities Cash received in advance - 299.46 -299.46

Net Current Assets 17,848.88 17,236.74

Represented By: Balance b/f 17,236.74 17,833.11 Net movement 612.14 -596.37 17,848.88 17,236.74

Treasurer’s Report I have pleasure in presenting the above Income and Expenditure Account and Balance Sheet for the year ended 31 March 2014.

Neil Stewart – Honorary Treasurer - Neil Stewart

Auditor’s Report We have examined the above accounts as at 31 March 2014, along with the respective receipts, vouchers and bank statements, and hereby certify them to be correct.

Signed: Honorary Auditors

B Peoples Brian V Peoples

R Young Robin J B Young

70 Social Functions and Gatherings during 2014 During the year the FPA facilitated the traditional functions including the Spring Lunch at the Belfray (29 March), the Belfast Lunch at Malone Golf Club (12 April) and the Annual Dinner at the City Hotel (25 September).

In addition to these, a Summer BBQ/Jazz Evening was held at Duncreggan in June. This was well attended with a range of age-groups represented but dominated by this year’s leavers and students from the previous two years returning from university for the summer break. A very good BBQ was provided in reasonably clement weather conditions and the school’s Jazz Band, under the leadership of Robert Goodman, entertained all for several hours in Duncreggan Assembly Hall. It is planned to repeat a similar reunion in June 2015.

The Spring Lunch in the Belfray was not so well supported as previously, possibly due to the fact that that Saturday marked the start of the Easter vacation. However, just over 40 members enjoyed a very pleasant luncheon and sociable afternoon. The President, Mrs Lily Swinson, spoke of her pleasure in representing the Former Pupils during her year in office and gave a summary of the functions that she had attended. The Headmaster, Mr Patrick Allen, gave a detailed update on the school year.

The Belfast Lunch in Malone Golf Club had formerly been an Old Boys’ function but now that the associations have amalgamated, all functions are open to all former pupils and it was good to see 10 ladies from the Belfast area present, making a total of 38 members. Following a drinks reception and a splendid lunch, the President, Mr Billy Young, welcomed all present and spoke of his year in office and his attendance at school functions in 2013-14. This was followed by a detailed overview of the school year, delivered by the Headmaster and the final speaker was Mr Stephen Connolly, recently retired Headmaster of Bangor Grammar School, and youngest son of the former Foyle College Headmaster, Mr Stewart Connolly.

Having just overseen the process of planning and building a new school at Bangor, he commiserated with Foyle’s Governors and Headmaster over the slow pace of progress and the many pitfalls and setbacks to be encountered along the way. He also amused the company by recounting his experiences as a pupil under his father’s headship, including some incisive comments from old school reports that his mother had retained.

This was a most enjoyable function is very pleasant surroundings. Previously, it was only held on alternate years, but to provide continuity and, hopefully, increase numbers, it will become an annual event, beginning in April 2015.

The Annual Dinner in the City Hotel was one of the best attended for many years. This function had reverted to its traditional date, the last Friday in September, since it was felt that October provided too many alternative attractions. The organisers were pleased with the large attendance of 85 members including 15 ladies and representative presidents from other grammar schools in the Province. Once again the City Hotel provided an excellent venue and a fine dinner.

The event was presided over by Joint President, Mr Lowry Cunningham. He tendered an apology for Mrs Phenella Black who was in Australia visiting family. He

71 welcomed all members and guests, and read a list of those members who had passed away during the year - a minute’s silence was observed.

Following dinner, the company was entertained to a musical performance by soloist, Miss Rionach McGlinchey, which was well received by all. The Toast to the School was proposed by Mr Jonathan Hegan, a contemporary of the President. He recounted fond memories of his time at Foyle, noting particularly the excellent education delivered by very fine teachers, the opportunity to excel at sport and other extra- curricular activities and the forging of life-long friendships with his peers. The Headmaster replied to the toast, giving a detailed account of the school year and its highlights for him. There was a short interval, after which Mr Winston Irwin, accompanied by Mr Stan Huey at the piano, rendered the traditional Percy French songs, with the company joining in the choruses.

Mr Lowry Cunningham then proposed the ‘Toast to Our Guests’ – Presidents of the other schools, the Head Boy and Head Girl and Patrick Leeson, last year’s Head Boy who was presented with the Huey Salver for Rugby. The Cricket Cup was presented to Mrs Fiona Rankin on behalf of her son, Michael, who is at university in Scotland. The reply, on behalf of the guests, was given by Mr Adrian Brown, President of Belfast Royal |Academy OBA, who regaled the company with many humorous stories and anecdotes – a light-hearted end to formal proceedings.

After the School Song, sung heartily as usual, there was time for social interaction which went on long into the night with many members resident in the hotel overnight. It is hoped that there will be a similar good attendance and enjoyable evening in September next, when Mr Dennis Connolly and Miss Ann Watson will preside as Joint Presidents. The dates for all functions are included in this edition.

In addition to the traditional functions mentioned, the FPA also facilitated a number of reunions in the course of the year. School records were trawled to find former pupils, and Facebook is now a favoured means of contacting friends. Reunions were organised by the Class of ‘77 – ’84 which met in the City Hotel in October and the Class of ’64 – ’71 (LHS) which met in the White Horse Hotel in November. On both occasions, a number of those attending were given a guided tour of Duncreggan House. Reports and photographs from both events are included in this edition.

The FPA and the school’s Bursar, Mr Neil Stewart, will facilitate the organisation of these functions including dealing with finances.

W M Lynn

72 President & Guests at Annual Dinner Past Presidents at Annual Dinner

Headmaster, Head Boy, Head Girl & President at Annual Dinner

Guests attending Annual Dinner

73 Chair of Govenors & Guests attending Albert Austin & Billy Platt Annual Dinner

Presentation of Huey Salver by James Huey to Guests attending Annual Dinner Patrick Leeson

Guests attending Annual Dinner

74 Headmaster’s Speech at the Annual Dinner 2014 Distinguished guests, former pupils of Foyle College, of Londonderry High School and of Foyle and Londonderry College it is a pleasure to join with you once again this evening at the Annual Former Pupils’ Dinner and to bring you up to date with the happenings at your alma mater over the past 12 months. The emotional low points of the year came very shortly after last year’s dinner when the dreaded ‘brown envelope’ arrived heralding a General Inspection of the school. As we had only just completed a self-evaluation exercise in June and were only 10 weeks into our School Development Plan it was never going to be a happy experience and at the end of an incredibly intense week our school was deemed to be ‘Satisfactory’ which in inspector-speak now stands for requires improvement. Better educationalists than I have looked at our report and assure me that it reads favourably and indicates a school moving in the right direction but, unfortunately, that wasn’t how the staff saw things and we were left feeling that the hard work that had been put in across many areas of the school hadn’t been either appreciated or recognised. So let’s take a few minutes to reflect on the life of the school over the past 12 months and the type of pupil that we continue to turn out, and I’ll leave it to you to judge whether we are merely ‘Satisfactory’. Our GCSE pass rate across all subjects this year was 90% with 40% of the grades awarded being at A* or A. 82% of pupils achieved seven or more GCSEs at A*-C including Maths and English (this being the benchmark that is used by the Department of Education to compare us to other schools). Of particular note are the performances of Cormac Ruiz-Byrne, Lydia Cullen, Kathy Crown and Amy Young. Cormac achieved 11A* grades having taken Spanish GCSE in Third Form. In addition he also achieved an A* in Spanish A-Level during the current exam session. Lydia achieved a perfect 10A*s whilst Kathy and Amy were one result shy with 9A*s and 1A. 18 further pupils achieved at least nine grades at A* or A. In Lower Sixth the pass rate was 98% across all subjects. Ruth Allen, Sarah Ferry and Jade Gould each achieved a ‘full house’ of 4 A Grades with 10 further pupils achieving at least three A Grades. At A-Level the pass rate was 98% across all subjects with 73% of pupils achieving three A*-C grades. James Cole, Patrick Leeson and Hilary Leeson each achieved four A* Grades and Judith Allen achieved three A*s and an A. A further 13 pupils achieved three A Grades or better. League tables of exam results, whether official or unofficial, are having an insidious impact on schools turning many into exam factories where results become the raison d’être of the school to the exclusion of the development of rounded contributors to society. I believe that I have already shown this evening that Foyle College can compete with the very best in terms of the academic excellence that our pupils attain but I also firmly believe that what happens outside the classroom is equally, if not more, important in terms of the overall development of each individual pupil. Our core values are respect, determination, commitment, integrity and responsibility but pupils and staff also suggested, amongst others, values such as dedication, excellence, confidence, ambition, cooperation, compassion and pride. It is pupil participation in the array of extra-curricular activities offered by staff which helps to develop these values in our young people. During the year some 130 boys turned out regularly to represent the school at rugby. The 1stXV, captained by Patrick Leeson, demonstrated real determination and commitment, particularly from January onwards to win the Danske Bank Ulster

75 Schools’ Bowl competition defeating Friends School, Lisburn, BRA, Lurgan College and Banbridge Academy to do so. In the Junior School the U14s retained the Mowbray Shield and the current U14s are so far undefeated this season. Being an equal opportunities school, just last week 45 girls from Year 8 to Year 12 turned out to enjoy coaching sessions supported by the Ulster Branch and it is hoped that we will once again have a senior girls team competing against other schools. Some 120 girls also regularly participated last year in hockey teams across the school. The 1stXI, captained by Alexandra Graham, had a mixed season with excellent performances on the pitch that were all too frequently not reflected in the score line; having dominated much of the play they lost to Antrim Grammar on penalty flicks in the Cup and then to Victoria College in the Plate. Some 90 pupils represented the school at Cricket with the 1stX1, the U15s and the U13s all making the finals of their respective competitions. Unfortunately all three stumbled at the final hurdle with the 1stXI and U15s both losing to RBAI whilst the U13s lost to Banbridge Academy; however we should not be downhearted as there were many very encouraging performances across the school which augur well for the future. In Badminton the senior boys’ team got to the semi-final of the cup and finished Third in their league. Kyle Magee, who was only in Year Eight last year, won the Champion of Champions Competition for Years 8 to 10 and looks like a real star for the future. The U16 footballers reached the quarter finals of their cup competition and from some 20 fencers, eight were selected to represent Northern Ireland for the UK School Games, two were Irish National Cadet Champions, seven were selected to represent Ireland at international events and five received Mary Peters Trust Awards. And I haven’t even mentioned those who participate in tennis, athletics or cross-country. But it doesn’t have to be through participation in team or individual sports that we help to develop the values and attributes which will stand pupils in good stead once they move on from Foyle. 113 pupils are members of the school’s Combined Cadet Force Contingent. According to its website the aim of the CCF is to ‘provide a disciplined organisation in a school so that pupils may develop powers of leadership by means of training to promote the qualities of responsibility, self-reliance, resourcefulness, endurance and perseverance’. These qualities were clearly in evidence when in 2013 Jack Gibson the Contingent Sergeant Major who has just left Foyle was selected to be the Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet for Londonderry and he has been succeeded this year by Lauralee Barr who is in the current Year 14 and a Petty Officer in the Navy Section. This is a fantastic achievement for both Jack and Lauralee, and to have successive cadets hold this position is a real feather in the cap for the school’s CCF. Every school year has annual highlights in its calendar and many of those at Foyle revolve around the performing arts which rely on pupil participation for their success. Last year was no exception beginning with 18 pupils from across the school performing Twelfth Night as part of the UK wide Shakespeare in Schools Festival. Then in early December we had the school’s production of Little Shop of Horrors which in total involved 35 pupils on stage, seven pupils or former pupils in the orchestra, 10 pupils in the stage team and 25 others involved with front of house, make-up, ticket sales and refreshments. Finally during the Easter Term some 210 pupils (out of a total school population of 850) were involved in the Easter Concert which contained solo performances by the Year 14 music students along with performances by the school orchestra, the Jazz Band, the Senior and Junior Choirs, the Junior Band, the African drummers and our in-house DJs. These young people

76 will all have shown considerable commitment and dedication given the rehearsal time needed to bring about performances of the standard that we enjoyed throughout the year. And of course there are many other opportunities too numerous to mention if I am to stick anywhere close to Lowry’s 10 minute time limit. So what are the outcomes of all these opportunities that so many pupils enjoy on a regular basis? One of the many things that have struck me since coming to Foyle is the willingness of the pupils to give to others either as individuals or as members of bodies such as the School Councils or the Health Committee. Let me use a group of pupils from Year Eleven and Year Twelve to illustrate the type of pupils that we are producing currently. Last year the Middle School Council took part in the Young Social Innovators Programme aimed at making life better for people within their school or local community across the whole of Ireland. The Foyle pupils decided to focus on the mental health of adolescents since they felt that sometimes the issues that are faced by young people in their lives at home and in school are neither understood nor appreciated by adults. The pupils had to submit a 4,000 word report which involved actively researching areas of mental health such as stress, self-harm, depression, eating disorders and suicide. They contacted and worked alongside mental health charities such as ZEST, AWARE and NewLife Counselling. Most importantly, and practically, they organised a mental health awareness week for the pupils in the Senior School. Some of the charities came and ran workshops and all of the assemblies for the week focussed on an element of mental health and were delivered by outside agencies or the pupils themselves. They also promoted healthy lifestyles by organising Boxercise and Zumba classes, circuit training and insanity workouts, and promoted healthy eating by bringing in a nutrition expert to speak about issues such as eating disorders. Through their work the Middle School Council hoped to break through the stigma of mental health in Foyle College allowing all their peers to continue to reach their potential; however, what struck me about their work was the range of values and transferable skills that, as a group and as individuals, they demonstrated and developed during the project; skills and values that cannot be measured by exam performance or league tables but which are invaluable to prospective employers. Do these sound like pupils who have had a merely satisfactory educational experience during their time at their school? But the values that I have mentioned, and which pupils develop through their participation in the range of activities offered, are, of course, not new values, they are values which have stood the test of time at all the schools which have come together to form the modern Foyle College. This year, as the whole nation is only too aware, marks the 100th Anniversary of the Great War; the war to end all wars. In 1914 there were 200 young men enrolled at Foyle College and the 1913-14 1stXV made it to the final of the Schools’ Cup where, having suffered early injuries to key players, they unfortunately lost 13-0 to Methodist College. However, what is striking is that during the next four years, four of those young men including both the Captain and Vice- Captain made the ultimate sacrifice. In total 490 former pupils of Foyle College served during the War, with 72 giving their lives for King and Country. I hope that none of my current pupils or those who are to follow have to face up to the sort of horrors that those young men faced so bravely but I hope that if those young men were to meet the current crop of Foyle pupils they would recognise kindred spirits, pupils with many of the same sort of interests, abilities, beliefs and values that they had. I hope they would be proud of the legacy that they left behind. I hope that they would be proud of the type of pupils that our school produces; I know I am, regardless of what the Inspectorate might say! 77

CLASS REUNION 1964 – 1971 Saturday 15 November 2014

Ever since our days at Londonderry High School we four friends had kept in touch and dined out regularly to catch up on each other's news. It was on one such occasion in March 2014 that we were reminiscing, once again, about our school days together. The four of us - Andrena Burke, Kay Forbes, Anne Duddy and Eleanor Nelis - had first met in September 1964 on our first day at Londonderry High School when we took our first fearful steps through the door of the school at Duncreggan, wondering what lay ahead. Now here we were - Andrena Ramsey, Kay Moule, Anne Wetherall and Eleanor Stokes, all retired and all grandmothers! ‘How can this be?’ we wondered, when it seemed like yesterday we were all at school together. That was when we realised 50 years had passed by since we first met. Over the years we had often talked about trying to organise a class reunion and now we thought it was time to take action!

However, we still had taken things no further by the time of our next outing together on the train to Belfast to celebrate Kay's birthday in July. I had brought along my copy of our Fifth Form photograph taken in 1968 which we studied carefully and realised we could still name almost everyone in it! But where were they all? We decided that before we parted that day we would set a date and, to allow for what we knew would be a huge task, we gave ourselves plenty of time and set the date for 15 November. So began a series of phone calls, emails, searches on Facebook, asking around relatives - we even resorted to good old-fashioned snail mail!

At the end of our search we had contacted about 80 former class mates and sadly had discovered eight who were now deceased. Obviously not everyone we contacted was able to attend, and others were not interested in attending, so our final list for the reunion came to 41 - from England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland both north and south. Those not attending were invited to write a little about themselves and send an up-to- date photo so they wouldn't be forgotten on the evening, and a very interesting display was made up of the articles we received.

After four months of planning, the date had finally arrived. We met at Duncreggan on the afternoon of 15 November. There was much hugging and laughter as each person arrived, and occasionally some confusion over identity! Thank goodness we had brought along name badges for everyone.

The School Tour began at 1.30 p.m. We were shown around by Mrs Coskery (former Spanish teacher when we were at the school). We visited Duncreggan House, now used as offices and staff room, the assembly hall (where we could all picture our former headmistress Miss Cowper on stage), the science lab where nothing seemed to have changed, the domestic science room which hadn't changed a lot either and the library/language laboratory.

We met again at 7.00 p.m. at the White Horse Hotel. On arrival we shared a lovely glass of hot punch. Anne Wetherall (née Duddy) made an introductory speech and welcomed all those who had travelled from both near and far. We enjoyed a delicious three-course meal followed by tea/coffee and then we had a speech from our former head girl, Sheelagh Hunter (neé Rankin). Sheelagh reminisced about our time shared

78 together at Londonderry High School, thanked the hotel staff for their excellent food and service, and proposed a toast to absent friends. Some others said a few words about our time at school together and also about what they had been doing since. After that we looked around the displays of messages, photographs and memorabilia and chatted until well past midnight. We said our goodbyes to those unable to join us the following day with many promises to keep in touch.

On Sunday morning at 11.00 am some of us met again at the tourist office and took the bus tour of the City, stopping at the Peace Bridge to walk across, take a few photos and then back to re-board the bus and finish the tour.

We were all reluctant to say goodbye after the bus tour as we had enjoyed our weekend together so much but sadly all good things come to an end. There was much hugging and kissing and promises made that we would not lose touch again.

A WONDERFUL TIME WAS HAD BY ALL! Andrena Ramsey (Née Burke)

(All names on photographs are given as maiden names)

Dorothy Cumming and Lyn Cole Time to say Goodbye! on the Peace Bridge

Elizabeth Thompson reading Gateway 1971 Yvonne Hamilton and Joan McKinney (LHS Magazine)

79 Waving: Andrena Burke, Sydney Crane, Isabel Hogg, Elizabeth Thompson, Lorna Peoples Dorothy Cumming and Lyn Cole and Alison Frazer

Sheelagh Rankin and Eleanor Russell Joy Carey and Yvonne Carruthers

Anne Duddy and Mary Nicholl Margaret McCluskey, Eunice Youngman and Kay Forbes

Yvonne Manly and Christine Taylor Daphne Moore, Sydney Crane and Clare Jones (Mary Nicholl taking photo)

80 Reunion Class of 1977 – 11 October 2014 Where would we bee without Facebook? A casual comment posted in July from Barry Ross to Caroline (Brown) Millar, created a flurry of responses that led ultimately to a brilliant night out on Saturday, 11 October 2014. After all, it is 30 years since most of us left our Alma Mater in June 1984, so a reunion was well overdue.

Long-time friends, Caroline, Fiona (McCracken) Rankin and Jennifer (Craig) McClintock were joined by Malcolm Burns, Marshall ‘Tootie’ Kilgore and I to form a committee to organise the event. Mal created a closed group ‘Reunion Class of 1977 Foyle College’ and soon there were 40 odd people following the page and contributing old photographs and names to add to the growing list. Sue (Susan Keys) Stimson unearthed a Sixth Form group photo, and old copies of the ‘Falcon’ helped fill in the names of those who had left pre-1983. Contact lists were drawn up and each of us allocated a number to try and locate by whatever means possible including email, snail mail and accosting parents in the supermarket! It soon became apparent, however, that whilst we were keen to renew old friendships there were those who really didn’t want to be involved. Despite our hounding them we were firmly ignored by some high-profile ex-pupils but no one can say we didn’t try.

A quiet gathering was planned for the Friday evening to break the ice and give us the chance to catch up before the main event. The die-hard committee members were joined by Rosie McCombe, Janette (Watson) Wheeler, Sharon (Sweeney) Pfleger, Alan Evans, David Henderson, John McCarter and Terence Smith for a few ‘sociables’ in the chaotic crush that is Peader O’Donnell’s. Let’s just say the ice was well and truly broken! The following afternoon, Neil Stewart kindly opened the Senior School at Duncreggan and we were given a guided tour by William Lynn. Of course the school has changed in many ways since ‘our days’, most notably with the addition of the Sports Hall and the conversion of cloakrooms into computer suites. The majority of changes were for the better but we were disappointed to learn that our beloved Sixth Corm Centre in the old school cellars had been shut down due to fire regulations.

The reunion itself saw 54 of us gather in the Alexander Suite of the City Hotel – a good omen I felt. Name badges had been considerately provided by Tootie and proved essential to identify the gentlemen of the group. After all, when we knew them at school they had hair! Time had been much kinder to the ladies and we had no difficulty in recognising one another! Our roving photographer, Sean, captured the atmosphere as small groups gathered laughing, chatting and exclaiming over the display of old photographs of formals, school trips and, for some inexplicable reason, the Rendezvous on Spencer Road! A group photograph was taken and, as inevitably happened in the whole school panoramic photos, not everyone was looking at the camera!

Tootie welcomed everyone and thanked those who had travelled from Scotland, England and the rest of Northern Ireland, but especially commended Barbara (Simpson) Hill who travelled from her home in Canada to be with us. We were joined by some latecomers who were more than able to deal with the stick levelled at them, with Gillian (Lindsay) McCorkell giving as good as she got. Some things never change! It was wonderful to see two (and two halves) of the five couples who

81 married within the year group. Wendy (McClay) and Peter Galbraith and Joanne (Blair) and Gareth Robinson were there while Michelle (McCrudden) Hutchinson and Elaine (Lucy) North were minus their husbands, David and Shaun. The fifth couple, Pamela (Guthrie) and Leonard McIlwaine, weren’t able to attend.

The music provided by the DJ wasn’t solely 1980s but the dance floor was packed with heaving bodies proving that we weren’t over the hill just yet. Particularly memorable were Mrs Millar’s moves to ‘Sweet Caroline’ and keeping it in the family, cousins Rosie McCombe and Paul Burnside. We partied until the wee small hours, when we were joined by some even older Old Boys and Girls who wanted to see what all the noise was about, and were grudgingly moved downstairs to finish our drinks. Judging from feedback and everyone’s reluctance to go home I’d say the evening was a great success. Friendships were renewed and email addresses and phone numbers swapped with promises to ‘keep in touch’! There is even talk of doing it all again in Autumn 2016 and calling it ‘The Big 50th Birthday Bash’, but time will tell on that one.

Our sincere thanks go to Neil Stewart for his role as banker, Mr Lynn for his patience during our visit to the school, our photographer, Sean Taggart and the City Hotel for providing a delicious meal and entertainment in most comfortable surroundings. As for the ‘Committee’, our meetings were such good craic, we think we might need several debriefing sessions to round things off! So any past pupils considering having a reunion, I would say go for it and should you require any help our ‘Committee’ members are available to advise you – for a small fee of course!

Helen (Fulton) Alexander

Sandra Ayton, Siobhan Bigger, Elizabeth Boyd Karen Sproule, Elaine McCormick

Caroline Millar, Fiona Rankin, Joanne McIntosh, Rosemary McCombe Jennifer McClintock

82 LHS - Belfast Members Report In April, eight of us attended the Foyle Lunch at Malone Golf Club, Belfast. One of the speeches was by Mr Patrick Allen, the Headmaster, who gave us an update about the school. It was an opportunity to meet with other past pupils. I got into conversation with the Very Reverend John Dinnen and discovered that our sons had been to school together and then shared a flat together while at university in Glasgow. Andrew and Philip got in touch with each other and met up again for the first time in eighteen years.

Seventeen of us met for Afternoon Tea in the Sun Lounge of the Dunadry Hotel in June 2014. The weather was lovely and the company great. We enjoyed a selection of sandwiches, scones and small pastries.

We held our Annual Lunch in the Barnett Suite at the Stormont Hotel this year. Thirty-three ladies attended the lunch and the hotel kindly agreed to provide rectangular tables rather than round ones which allowed closer contact with more people. The event was less formal than in previous years and perhaps more enjoyable.

If you would like to come to any of our events, you would be most welcome, so please do get in touch.

Dates of Events for 2015 Afternoon Tea Saturday, 6 June 2015 Annual Lunch Saturday, 3 October 2015

Joan Milliken Honorary Secretary/Treasurer [email protected]

Trevor Harvey, Andrew Love, Marshal Kigore Belfast Branch Stephen Davies, Timothy Duff

83 LHS - Coleraine Members Report We were sorry to learn of the death of two of our members in December 2013, Mrs Gladys Black née Houston on 6 December 2013 and Mrs Evelyn Loughridge née Kincaid on 14 December 2013. Evelyn and Gladys were faithful members of our branch for many years and we have happy memories of times spent with them both. Gladys was the President of the Old Girls in 1989-90. We continue to remember their families as they approach the first anniversary of the death of their loved one.

We had our Annual Buffet on Thursday 22 May at the home of Rosaleen Ramsey in Ballymoney. We were delighted to have Phenella Black, our President, with us and also Betty Hamilton and Elma Mc Devitt from the Belfast Branch. All present had a very enjoyable evening with superb food and lots of chat!!

On Thursday 25 November we had our Annual Get Together at the home of Rosaleen Ramsey. Our guest speaker was Christine Williams (née Smyth) who spoke on her Silver Jewellery making and had examples of her work with her for us to admire. Christine has recently returned to live in Ballycastle after living in Scotland for a number of years and we are delighted to welcome her as a new member of our branch. We also welcomed Mavis Hill (née Craig) as a new member and hope to see both Christine and Mavis at future meetings.

Margaret Lawson (daughter of the late Evelyn Loughridge) also attended. Margaret had travelled from Scotland to be with us, to present to our branch her late mother’s OGA brooch. We have decided to have the brooch designed so that it can be worn with a chain by our Chairperson. Christine has agreed to attend to this matter and we thank her for this

Our members attended other branch functions during the year and enjoyed renewing friendships. Thanks to all those who plan these events and we look forward to the events of the coming year. As we approach 2015, best wishes to all Old Girls.

Rosaleen Ramsey née McClements Hon Sec/Treasurer 76a Charlotte Street Ballymoney Co Antrim BT53 6AZ

Coleraine Branch Presentation of Brooch to Margaret Lawson

World War I Centenary – 1914 – 2014

Remembrance 1914 – 2014 This year marked the centenary of the beginning of the First World War and consequently the Armistice Remembrance Services held a special significance. On Remembrance Sunday, the Head Boy and Head Girl, accompanied by the Headmaster, laid a wreath on the War Memorial in the Diamond. Members of the school’s Combined Cadet Force (CCF) were also in attendance to take the salute and march past.

On Armistice Day the school held two services, one in each Assembly. At Springtown where the two War Memorial Boards are located, the wreath-laying ceremony was conducted by the Headmaster and Rev Dr Rob Craig. The Headmaster reminded pupils that over 400 former pupils of Foyle College had served in the First World War - their names are recorded in the Roll of Honour - and of these, 72 had made the supreme sacrifice, giving their lives for their country. At 11.00 am the Last Post was sounded and pupils turned to face the War Memorials at the back of the hall. The Joint Presidents, Ms Phenella Black and Mr Lowry Cunningham, laid a wreath on the First World War Memorial on behalf of the Former Pupils’ Association, and the Head Boy and head Girl laid one on the Second World War memorial on behalf of the school. After a two-minute silence and reveille, the hymn ‘O God Our Help in Ages Past’ was sung and the ceremony ended with the singing of the National Anthem.

A little later that morning, the ceremony without the laying of wreaths was repeated with the senior pupils at Duncreggan. At both Assemblies the photograph of the 1913-14 1stXV Rugby Team was on display and the Headmaster told how over a quarter of the boys in the photograph were killed during the conflict in the following few years, including the team Captain, T F McCay, and the Vice Captain, T S Haslett.

The service in Duncreggan was also attended by the Joint Presidents and the school’s Archive Team - Dr R Montgomery, Mr K Gamble, Mr S McMahon and Mrs M Deans. Headmaster thanked the team for their efforts in preserving the school’s history. The Chair of the FPA, Mr W Lynn, was in attendance at both services.

W M Lynn

WW1 Honours Board, Springtown

86 Tower of London

Tower of London Ceramic Poppies Tower of London Information Board

Cascade of Poppies

Tower of London Moat Tower of London Wave

87 Two Cups: Remembering the Lost Youth of Foyle

Thomas Sinclair Haslett The Foyle College annual prize giving, the highlight of the school’s social year, was held in the minor hall of the Guildhall on 16 December 1918. While the first part of the ceremony accorded due recognition to those who had gained prizes the latter part of the gathering was much more solemn, for Foyle remembered those of its boys who had not returned from France. The names of all those who had been killed were read by the headmaster and among the list were those who had been on the teams representing Foyle in the Ulster Schools Rugby Cup competitions in the years before the war. Today a wooden memorial bears the names of all those from the College who died in the Great War. One of these names is that of TS Haslett who is associated with the Ulster Schools Rugby Cup as well as a communion cup resting in a Presbyterian church in Ballymena. Thomas Sinclair Haslett was a son of the manse and a native of Ballymena Thomaswhere he Sinclairattended Haslettthe Academy was abefore son of going the manseon to board and aat native Campbell of Ballymena where he attendedCollege. On the a censusAcademy return before of boarders going at onthe Belfastto board school at Campbell in 1911 he College.is On a census returnrecorded of as boarders fourteen atyears the of Belfast age but school within ina year 1911 he he was is playingrecorded for asthe fourteen years of age butFoyle within College a 1stXV.year he In wasthe section playing titled for ‘Football the Foyle Notes’ College the editor 1st XV.of the In the section titled ‘FootballFoyle College Notes’ magazine the editor of January of the 1913 Foyle wrote College the following: magazine ‘More of thanJanuary 1913 wrote the following:usual interest ‘More has been than centred usual on interest football hasthis season.’been centred He was on of coursefootball this season.’ He wasreferring of courseto the anticipated referring successto the ofanticipated the 1stXV rugbysuccess team of in the the 1stUlsterXV rugby team in the UlsterSchools Schools Cup and Cup noted and with noted satisfaction with satisfaction that Foyle hadthat been Foyle undefeated had been undefeated by any schoolby any schoolteam teamduring during the theseason. season. The The mostmost positivepositive comment comment in thein the critique of the playerscritique ofwas the reservedplayers was for reserved Haslett, for ‘the Haslett, trickiest ‘the trickiest player playeron the on team’. the His talents were recognisedteam’. His talents when were along recognised with others when from along Foylewith others he was from selected Foyle he to play for the Ulster Schoolswas selected team. to play for the Ulster Schools team.

In January 1914 there was great hope that success would come again as the Foyle team was under the supervision of A R Foster, a master at the school who had been an Irish international. Nevertheless the editor of the magazine had to acknowledge that not a little superstition surrounded the fortunes of the Foyle team for back in the final of 1906 the total points scored were thirteen, eight by Portora and five by Foyle. Moreover it was now thirteen seasons since Foyle had won the cup and in the final of March 1913 the score had been 10 points for Campbell College and only three for Foyle. Again in the 1913–4 Cup season Foyle faced Ballymena and a 40–nil victory for Haslett and his team mates meant a resounding start in the competition. Foyle did indeed have a great Cup run reaching the final in March 1914 but it seems that luck was very much against the Derry boys.

Ireland and Wales had met in an international match at Balmoral only a few days before St Patrick’s Day and the pitch had suffered considerably thus leading to a postponement of the Schools final until the following Saturday. On the day of the final between Foyle and Methodist College, Haslett suffered a head injury and Matthews from Foyle left the field with a broken collarbone shortly before half time. Then the score was nil–nil and there was still hope that the superstitious pundits might be proved wrong but in the second half Methodist College proved much superior and Foyle lost the match by 13 points to nil.

88 Thomas Haslett who had turned out for the top Ulster schools in this competition in the pre-war years and had reached the final with Foyle on two successive occasions sadly did not have the satisfaction of holding the coveted trophy and enjoying the celebrations awaiting the Foyle team that spring. In the summer of 1915 he joined the army but within a few short years his name was to be forever linked to a more meaningful cup in his hometown of Ballymena.

Within a few months of the start of the Great War a regular feature of the Foyle College magazine was the inclusion of a Roll of Honour, a list of the names of all former boys serving in the forces. Over half of the victorious First XV of 1915 joined and the October edition listed 163 names of former pupils with their ranks and regiments; by January 1916 the list had extended to 216. In August 1916 over 250 names were listed and by then sadly they were prefixed by the names of 19 boys who had been killed in action. The exploits and gallantry of former pupils were of course reported in the magazine and in November 1916 it proudly displayed a photograph of Lieutenant Thomas Haslett who had been awarded the Military Cross.

Just before Christmas 1917 when Foyle College marked its Tercentenary at the prize distribution in the Guildhall the headmaster, Mr Dill, reported that in the previous month three former pupils had been killed in the war, McCarter, McCay and Haslett. McCay and Haslett were the respective Captain and Vice-Captain of the 1913–4 Schools Cup team, and by a strange irony of fate their deaths had been announced on the same date. It seems that Haslett was killed when going to the aid of a severely wounded fellow officer from the Royal Irish Rifles on 22 November 1917 only two days after the start of the Cambrai battle. According to the headmaster young Haslett was able to speak to this comrade a little while before he died and Haslett himself was killed only a few moments later.

Thomas Sinclair Haslett’s endeavours with the Foyle team to regain the schools cup in the years before 1914 did not bring him success but his father at Ballymena in keeping with his own practice of commemorating the Christian sacrifice, presented in memory of his eldest son a communion cup to his congregation.

Hundreds of Foyle past pupils had served in the war but over 70 had not returned and it is their names that are recorded on the memorial in the assembly hall. Alongside the name of Thomas Haslett one finds many sons of established Derry families. Haslett did not hail from Derry nor did he receive the glittering prizes given to other boys for academic excellence but in his association with three Ulster towns and considering his undoubted sporting talents he in a very real sense can be said to represent the lost youth of that era.

Information for this article supplied by Mr S J Heasley, Former Head of History, Foyle College

Thomas Fulton McCay Thomas Fulton McCay, my great-uncle, was born at home in Ashgrove, at Drum, Dungiven, on 27 January 1895. He was the youngest son of Martha and William McCay, and had three brothers and three sisters. His eldest brother, George Piggott McCay, was my grandfather. Of his early years I have little information but he

89 entered Foyle in 1910 and was there until 1914. The 1911 census showed that he was lodging with Mrs Wray whose sons were Foyle boys and whose nephews called Witherow were Thomas’s cousins. (One of Mrs Wray’s sons, David Witherow Wray, was a student of Magee and later of TCD, and was killed in the later months of the Great War.)

During his time at Foyle Thomas played rugby for the 1stXV and appeared for the first time in the team photograph for 1912–3. He was by all accounts a ‘sound forward’ and ‘good on the loose’, as he was described in the school magazine for January 1913. Notably he captained the team that was coached by AR Foster, an old boy, an Irish international and a member of staff. Unfortunately they lost to Campbell College in 1913 and to MCB in 1914 but were to become victors in 1915, the year after Thomas left. That team included Thomas Sinclair Haslett his vice-captain in 1914. The two boys were to meet a couple of years later in very different circumstances.

On leaving Foyle Thomas enrolled in the Royal College of Surgeons in Dublin to study medicine. Their records show that he stayed there until the winter of 1915–6 when he joined the OTC and was gazetted 2nd Lieutenant in the Royal Irish Rifles (RIR) in September 1916. By this time he had lost friends and relations in the war (many at the Somme) and being an Ulster Presbyterian and probably quite patriotic – he had signed the Ulster Covenant – perhaps he felt a great urge to fight for his country. He left to fight in France in early 1917 and though his service record was destroyed in the blitz during the Second World War the RIR museum in Belfast was able to provide me with a copy of the war diary for 22 November 1917, the day that he was killed at Cambrai. I noticed also the name of his old school friend, Thomas Haslett, killed almost at the same time, who is the subject of another article in the magazine. Their names are inscribed on panel 10 on the Louveral Memorial at Cambrai.

In the photograph of the 1st XV for 1912–3 are five boys who are listed in the roll of honour: James Alfred Wlliams and his brother Charles Beasley Williams [James was a medical student at Edinburgh University, Charles a divinity student at TCD], Thomas McCay, Thomas Haslett and John Andrews Walker of the Royal Engineers. Charles Love Crockett who features in the photograph for 1913–4 died during the Easter Rising in Dublin 1916, mistakenly shot by his own side. Another older Williams brother, Ernest, who may also have been at Foyle also died during the war, a tragic loss for their parents who lived in Northland Road, Derry.

Thomas’s father, William McCay, my great-grandfather, died in 1913; his wife Martha survived until 1924, heartbroken at losing a son with so much potential. The news of his death arrived on 28 November 1917, the day on which her daughter, Mary Ann was to be married. Thomas is commemorated on his brother John’s gravestone in the graveyard of the parish church in Dungiven. Thomas Haslett is commemorated on his parent’s gravestone in Dundonald cemetery, Belfast.

Information for this article supplied by Dr Alison Garstin

90 Foyle College XV 1914-15 Cup Winners

Foyle Cup Finalists 1913-14 T.F. McCay, Captain (centre), T.S. Haslett (on ground to left)

Your Contributions

The Lawrence School Sanawar On the hill of Sanawar, amongst the deodars and pine trees of the Shivalak Himalayan range, stands today one of India’s most pre-eminent schools – The Lawrence School, Sanawar1. Founded in April 1847, the school was the brainchild of one of Foyle College’s most eminent alumni – Sir Henry Lawrence. Henry built an impressive career as a vigorous but sensitive administrator in northern India during the first half of the nineteenth century. His kind-hearted nature found expression in a deep concern for the welfare of others, particularly those less fortunate. Throughout his life he gave to numerous charities, but arguably his greatest legacy was his scheme to provide schooling for the orphan children of British soldiers and those still serving or had served in India. Aware that barrack life on the plains of India was both physically (given the tropical climate) and morally unconducive to the welfare of children (particularly girls), he believed that a school set in the hills would provide an invigorating environment in which they could thrive. Henry struggled hard to win support for his venture but eventually his grit and determination won through. His force of character and example reflect the motto of both the Lawrence School, Sanawar and of course Foyle College – ‘Never Give In’.

In July 2014 my wife, Shruti, and I visited the school as part of my research for a book on Ulstermen who served in the East India Company during the nineteenth century. As we made our way through the winding foothills from Himachal Pradesh’s provincial capital, Shimla, to the school, I wondered whether there would be much evidence of the Lawrence connection still visible. After all, in post-independence India would the present day school administrators wish to preserve its colonial legacy?

Upon arrival we were given a friendly welcome by the school’s estate manager, Mr Harbir Romana, a cheery Sikh gentleman originally from the town of Ferozeshah in Punjab. Over a cup of chai in his office, Mr Romana spoke in reverential tones about ‘Sir Henry’ and his wife ‘Lady Honoria’ and their importance to the school. Shortly afterwards, as we walked around the surprisingly quiet 139 acres campus (both pupils and teachers had yet to return for the new term), it soon became apparent that a high onus was placed on preserving the school’s heritage. I observed the well-maintained nineteenth century stone buildings, some with colonnades, others with verandas. One such building housed the old printing press still giving faithful service. Nearby an old generator, built by Crossley Brothers of Manchester, had been carefully preserved. While further along stood ‘The Thresh Disinfector’ made by Summerscales of Keighley, Yorkshire. This was a late nineteenth century mobile steam boiler used for disinfecting bedding and clothing. Other buildings included a post office (perhaps one of the oldest in India), a school hospital and a rifle range.

It was not long, however, before we fixed our sights on the first items of Lawrence memorabilia. Outside the girls’ dormitory, newly painted with neatly laid-out beds and study cubicles, stood Honoria’s paalki. This well-maintained sedan chair would have been used by her during the couple’s visits to the school in 1849 and 1851. Also preserved was Henry’s buggy – a small two-wheeled carriage with a folding top. In

1 The school was originally known as the Lawrence Asylum. Then Lawrence in 1858 it was renamed the Military Asylum. In 1920 it was renamed once more as the Lawrence Royal Military School.

93 Parker Hall, formerly a dining hall and now housing the school library and small museum, there were further displays showing the Lawrence lineage as well as biographical details on the couple. It noted that Honoria had been instrumental in selecting the school’s first Principal, William Parker, and highlighted her deep interest and involvement in all areas of school life. It was clear that Honoria, who was born in Carndonagh, Co Donegal, was thought of as equally integral to the school’s foundation and development as her husband.

More reminders were visible in Barne Hall, a large auditorium used for assemblies and lectures. At the entrance was positioned a classical bust of Henry, while in the main body of the hall hung a large oil painting of the great man flanked by a smaller engraving of Honoria together with photographs of former Headmasters. In the school chapel, one of the oldest buildings on the campus, an ornate memorial to Henry and Honoria and to their two children – Letitia Catherine and Alexander Lawrence – had been erected. Honoria was described as ‘….a true friend to the soldier, and a worthy helpmate to her husband in all his benevolent designs, and especially in establishing this institution.’ Close by another memorial to Henry solemnly stated, ‘This institution which he originated, and to which he contributed 87,000 rupees, is his best monument. This tablet is erected by a few friends and the officers and children of this Asylum to express the reverence and affection which they have for his memory.’

Of course much has changed since Henry Lawrence’s day. In setting up the school Henry reckoned that each pupil would cost no more than 10 rupees a month to maintain. The funding was mainly by subscriptions and donations. Orphans were free, while for others part of the cost was covered by parents. Today the school no longer caters primarily for the needs of orphans, and instead of the white baba-log, the overwhelming number of pupils are, not surprisingly, Indian. Moreover, the annual fees per pupil now amount to an substantial 476,400 rupees per annum (the children of military families pay two-thirds) making the Lawrence School available (excluding scholarships and bursaries) to only a select strata of Indian society. The school has also greatly expanded. It opened with just 14 pupils in 1847. By 2014 the number of pupils had reached 700, of which 230 were girls and 470 were boys (Girls were present right from the beginning making it one of the oldest coeducational schools in the world).

Undoubtedly the curriculum has become more varied in recent times too. Beyond the core subjects pupils have the option to study drama, fashion designing, carpentry, ceramics, sculpture, and Indian classical music and dance. An emphasis is also placed on sport, and the school boasts a solar-heated swimming pool. There is an ‘All India Honoria Lawrence Invitational Inter-School Basketball Tournament for Girls’, while taking part in the cross country ‘Hodson Run’, in memory of W S R Hodson of ‘Hodson’s Horse’ fame, is an age-old Sanawar tradition. Recently a group of pupils became the youngest school team to have reached the summit of Mount Everest.

Our tour ended at the school office where there were two plate engravings of Henry and Honoria adorning the entrance hall. There we met the bursar Mr P K Sharma who mentioned the exchange programmes the school was running with other schools from around the world. It struck me that Henry Lawrence would have approved of establishing a link between his alma mater and the school he founded. Mr Romana kindly gave me a history of the school and I thanked him for giving so freely of his

94 time. It had been a worthwhile visit. As we drove out through the school gates it was gratifying to know that in a small part of northern India the lives of two Ulster people (after all these years) continued to be held in such high esteem.

Jonathan Orr

Postscript: The Lawrence School at Sanawar was not the only school to be founded by Henry Lawrence. Another asylum school (now the Internal Security Academy) was established during his life at Mount Abu, Rajasthan (1856). After his death two others were founded in his memory - one at Lovedale, Ootacamund in south India (1858); the other at Ghora Gali, Murree, Pakistan (1860).

Jonathan & Shruti with Prabh Sing Kang at Sanawar

Sanawar School Flag

95 Megan Frazer This year we had the pleasure of welcoming Megan Frazer back to Foyle to present the prizes at our Annual Sports Day. It is not every day that we get a chance to have a national team captain come into school, let alone one that took up the sport at Foyle and Londonderry College.

When Megan left in 2009 we knew that she was destined to achieve great things, such was and still is her passion for and dedication to the sport. Whilst at school Megan accumulated a lengthy list of honours at Ulster and Irish level including co-captaining the Ulster U18 side to inter-provincial success. Most of us, however, remember her as the first captain to guide Foyle to Ulster Schools’ Cup success since the 1980s. Her leadership and spirit guided a talented squad to the pinnacle of schoolgirl hockey. Whilst in her final year at school she played for the Senior Irish Squad but still played every league and cup match for the school as if her life depended upon it.

It was no surprise that she was offered a scholarship to Maryland University, Washington, USA where ‘field’ hockey is a major sport. While playing for Maryland, the team won the All-American League in 2010, 2011 and 2012 as well as two national championships. Megan had the honour of captaining the Maryland Hockey Team in 2011 and 2012. During this time she was recipient of the Maryland University Keli Smith Award in 2010, won mid-Atlantic player of the year in 2011 and the Honda Award in 2011 for the best hockey player in the USA. It is unusual for someone from outside the USA to win this very prestigious Award. Megan also won the 2012 Dina Rizzo Award for passionate leadership and commitment to winning.

During her three years in the USA Megan won every individual honour there was to win and her contribution to the college’s team was immense. This was all achieved while studying for a degree in Hearing and Speech Sciences. Megan’s three years in the USA allowed her to develop her hockey within a set-up that was as close to professional sport as is possible. She clearly thrived in this environment, which nurtured her prodigious talent.

There is no doubt that Megan could have stayed Stateside and continued to blaze a trail across the USA. However, she made the decision to come back to the UK and play for the very ambitious Holcombe Club, based in Kent. Megan’s hockey magic helped her new club gain promotion to the First Division of the English Hockey League and needless to say, in doing so, she turned a few heads.

The new coaching team at the helm of the Irish women’s squad was delighted to have Megan back on the right side of the ‘pond’ and it wasn’t long before she was playing a central role in the national team again. Prior to the Champions’ Challenge Tournament in Glasgow in April, Megan was named captain of the Senior Ireland hockey team. At this tournament she led Ireland to a second place finish which far exceeded expectations. An additional bonus was the fact that Megan won Player of the Tournament, an accolade that is becoming a regular occurrence! It would appear that Megan’s ability sets her apart from others even at the highest level.

Her growing reputation in hockey circles all over the world has seen a number of offers being made by Dutch and Spanish clubs who are the aristocrats of the hockey world. Megan has turned down these opportunities to play professional hockey in

96 Europe and has chosen to remain at home to train with the Irish team and to pursue their goal of qualifying for the Rio Olympics in 2016. This will depend on how the team fares in the World League in Uruguay in 2015.

Whilst preparing for what is going to be a very busy year next year, Megan has just enrolled at the University of Ulster, Jordanstown, to complete a Masters Degree in Bio Medical Engineering. In addition to her Ireland commitments she will play for the Ulster Elks team based at Jordanstown.

Regardless of what she has achieved since leaving Foyle, Megan is still very proud of her hockey roots and has already been back to where it all at started at Foyle to put a few of the budding stars of the future through their paces. We will look forward to playing against her in the Annual Old Girls’ match at Christmas and to travelling to Dublin in March to support the Ireland team in their quest for Olympic Qualification in the World Series event. I shall keep my passport well in date! Hockey Tour to Rio – now there is a thought!

Kerry Eakin

Jill Kennedy & Megan Frazer

From the Archive

Notes on Progress Work continues apace and by 2015 we hope to complete the inventory. Based on material in the archive are the articles below by Sean and Mildred. Also of interest is the recent confirmation by the Linenhall Library that the copy we hold of the 1870 Birch Magazine is original, and we know of no others unless any of our readers can tell us differently.

During the year we acquired a copy of Bishop Hopkins’ Sermons on the Ten Commandments, published in London in 1692. We have two books published in this year. The Linenhall Library has one book written by Bishop King who was Bishop of Derry from 1690, which was published in 1692 and this is the earliest book in its collection.

We are always interested in adding to the archive and we can be contacted through Mrs Jenny Galbraith, Principal’s PA at the school.

Robert Montgomery

Strand House School

98 Derry’s Own Inspector of Drains Percy French was born 160 years ago in Cloonyquin, County Roscommon, and is still loved and greatly treasured for such universally approved songs as ‘The Mountains of Mourne’, ‘Phil the Fluther’s Ball’, ‘Abdulla Bulbul Ameer’, ‘Come Back, Paddy Reilly, to Ballyjamesduff’ and ‘Slatherty’s Mounted Foot’. Narrow-gauge railway- buffs may prefer ‘Are Ye Right There, Michael?’ and Donegal corn-cutters claim ‘The Emigrant’s Letter’ but his popularity is unquestioned wherever green is worn. Those over fifty were reared on his songs and poems, and singsongs throughout Ireland in coming times are unimaginable without at least one of his witty, mildly satirical or sentimental pieces.

After a leisurely eight-year sojourn at Trinity he became by turns an ‘inspector of drains’ (his description), editor of the comic journal, The Jarvey, the seller of antiques in ‘The Old Curiosity Shop’ in Dublin and finally a travelling showman throughout the UK and especially in every township in Ireland. He was a born entertainer: actor, singer, dancer, instrumentalist, water-colourist, candle-painter, versifier, librettist and composer. It was part of his appeal that he often managed to create a song to suit the venue. The Mountains of Mourne, Ballyjamesduff, Ballymuck, Petravore, Creeshlough, Drumcolliher, County Clare, Ballybay and many other locations figure in his work, and in ‘Are Ye Right There, Michael?’ you can go railing from Ennis as far as Kilkee.

One of his dramatic recitations, ‘The Four Farrellys’, provides another such provincial tour stimulated by his having seen the name ‘Francis Farrelly’ in a hotel register and having known many Farrellys ‘I kept on sort of wonderin’ which Farrelly were you.’ Was it the keen-eyed Kerryman he met beyond Kenmare? the one who stole his girlfriend in Wicklow while they were students at TCD? the one he met in a bog below Belmullet in the county of Mayo? Was he, perhaps the Francis Farrelly that often ‘used to say, He’d like to blow them Papishes from Derry Walls away?’ Characteristically he admonishes him: ‘Do leave the Pope alone!’ He wrote altogether 81 songs, poems and parodies but this is the only reference in the whole corpus that mentions Derry. Yet Foyle College and the walled city played a not insignificant part in his life and formation.

With the unerring wisdom of hindsight we can see that the Derry connection was part of a sequence of chance, happy misguidance and familial accident. Fully to comprehend this, it is as well to understand something of the nature of young Willie French’s character and personality. He wrote in one of his few chapters of his not necessarily entirely reliable autobiography:

I was born a boy and have remained one ever since; friends and relatives often urge me to grow up and take an interest in politics, whiskey, race meetings, foreign securities, poor rates, options and other things that men talk about but no – I am still the small boy messing about with a paint-box or amusing myself with pencil and paper while fogies of forty determine the Kaiser’s next move.

The boyishness meant that when his interest was whetted by a subject he excelled in it as long as the interest was maintained. But his enthusiasms were not really academic, his gifts tending towards the (in the eyes of his Victorian parents) frivolous pursuits of painting, rhyming and playing the banjo.

99 He had become adept at Euclidean geometry because of excellent teaching by a tutor with whom he had a strong affinity and when he arrived at an English school he startled his Headmaster with his knowledge of the subject, which none of the other pupils had studied. When his father learned that his son, according to the Headmaster, was ‘quite the finest mathematical scholar we have ever had,’ he immediately thought ‘engineer’ and was pleased to have found a suitable career for his third child of nine and second son of five. All that was required was that he pass the Trinity Entrance in Mathematics – no trouble to a genius. In 1871 the seventeen- year old Willie was dispatched to Foyle where a Maths teacher called Johnston had a reputation passing fair. The Percy that he used for showbiz was his mother’s maiden name, reechoed in the name of the Headmaster, the Rev William Percy Robinson who was a kinsman. The reluctant scholar always claimed that Johnson had ‘built up a beautiful superstructure on the flimsiest foundation and I passed into TCD with honours.’

One of his fellow pupils at Foyle was John Ross, later the last Lord Chancellor of Ireland. He insisted that if Percy had chosen to exert himself he could have taken high honours but his enthusiasms were, let us say, elsewhere. When two Foyle pupils, Moore and Pollexfen began the caustically titled The Birch, the pioneer school magazine in Ireland that ran from 16 November 1870 to December 1871, Ross and Percy were enthusiastic contributors. Later Ross and J S Gaussen produced a successor The Foyle College Monthly and Ross afterwards recalled: ‘Percy French gave us notable assistance.’ Probably at least part of that assistance was graphic, comic drawings to illustrate some of the verse in which they cooperated. A correspondent to Our School Times, its successor, recalled that The Birch had comic sketches by ‘Billy’. There seems no doubt that the ‘Billy’ was Percy, using his familiar name. While at Trinity he and Ross wrote together ‘Andy McElroe’ about an Irish soldier serving in the Sudan: ‘And fled those Arab soldiery like sand siroccos blow, pursued (with much profanity) by Andy McElroe.’ It was published by Piggotts of Dublin in 1888 and unlike ‘Abdulla’ continued to earn them royalties.

Ross always insisted on Percy’s academic ability in spite of his subject’s decrying any such gifts. When in April 1986 Ettie and Joan French, Percy’s surviving daughters visited Foyle as Guests of Honour at a special concert of their father’s work organised by James N Healy, the author of Percy French and his Songs (1966), they brought with them a family heirloom, now one of the treasures of the school archive. This was a rather daunting book called Sound, subtitled ‘A Course of Eight Lectures Delivered at the Royal Institution of Great Britain by John Tyndall LlD FRS (1869).’ Pasted inside was a certificate inscribed in Latin by Gul. Percy Robinson: Magister. Translated it reads: ‘To a well-deserving pupil, William French, this prize (in second place) earned for significant achievement in mathematics is appropriately presented. 18 June 1872.’ One might not unreasonably bet that most of its matter was left unread by the recipient.

Even after his sojourn as a schoolboy, Percy’s connection with the school and the city continued. His attendance at lectures at TCD was intermittent, to say the least. He found time to return and entertain the pupils in his old school. He graduated BA and CE in 1881 and became an apprentice engineer on the ‘Midland Railway’. This later became the LMS (Northern Counties Committee) from Derry to Belfast via Coleraine. In the book Chronicles and Poems of Percy French (1922) edited by and contributed

100 to by his sister, Mrs E L de Burgh Daly, he talks of being ‘two years in Derry on his own’. He does not elaborate but it is known that he taught art for a term at Foyle. The Headmaster was then Maurice Hime, the first layman to hold the post, and though art was not a formal curricular subject it was typical of Hime’s determination to broaden the education offered. Besides being an agreeable and popular member of staff, Percy was a willing contributor to occasional entertainments for good causes sponsored by Hime.

Predictably he was not especially good at keeping order in class as evidenced by a reminiscence of Frances McClintock, Hime’s daughter. He did, however, do a lot of paintings and drawings many of which he gave freely as gifts, including one to Mrs Hime. He was also readying himself for the career that would make him famous. The Londonderry Sentinel of Saturday, 4 May 1882, carried a report of a Foyle Prizegiving held the previous night. After the distribution of prizes by the Mayor, Edward Reid JP, there followed ‘the musical part of the proceedings’ that included songs by Master H B Phillips, later to become Derry’s leading impresario, and ‘Johnny’ Hime, the Headmaster’s eldest son. The latter’s piece was called ‘Oh, What is the Old Man Thinking?’ and unsurprisingly brought the house down. ‘Mr French’, however, was the star of the show. (Prizegivings were a lot more fun in those years.) He delivered a ‘Lecture on the Phonograph’ in full academic fig complete with mortarboard. It was clear that the turn was largely extempore and combined with the deadly serious delivery it ‘fairly convulsed that audience at times with laughter.’ He returned later with his ubiquitous banjo and sang many encores until his singing of ‘I’m Really So Awfully Sleepy’ hinted that ‘it was time to disperse.’

Percy again appeared in a charity concert organised by Foyle on 20th September that year, this time on behalf of the Derry City and County Infirmary. He sang several of his own songs and later appeared in The Blind Beggars’ Operetta by Offenbach as a blind beggar called Buffles, ‘who was born blind from studying so hard at the university’. Two years later in May 1884 he was back in town to take part in a concert to raise funds for the Masonic School in Dublin arranged by Hime who was himself a Mason. It was held in the Corporation Hall in the Diamond, and ‘Mr French gave us two songs, ‘The Old Bog Hole’ and ‘The Cruise of the Canal Boat’ and was as great a favourite as the last time he performed in Derry.’ The former effort contains the immortal lines: There’ll be pipes and tobacky, There’ll be whiskey in a bowl, An’ if ye want the wather There’s the Ould Bog Hole! When being Ireland’s troubadour became Percy’s way of life, he made Derry a regular part of his itinerary and continued to have a special fondness for ‘the grove the Foyle commanding’. When ‘The Song of Foyle College’ is annually sung at Former Pupils’ Dinners it is invariably accompanied by several of the Bard of Cloonyquin’s songs. To make bad verse worse: Be’t latitude or longitude If you want to please your wench, You’ll set the party swinging With songs by Percy French.

(Material sourced mainly from the Foyle College Archive) Sean McMahon

101 W. Percy French, Watercolour, 1903

William Percy French

102 10 Rossdowney Road, L’Derry. BT47 6NS

Tel: (028) 7134 3434 Web: www.nichedrinks.com

103

Dates for Your Diary

Event Venue Date

Belfast Lunch Malone Golf Club 21 February 2015 12.30 for 1.00 pm

Former Pupils’ Association The Belfray Country Inn 21 March 2015 Spring Lunch & Reunion Londonderry 12.30 for 1.00 pm

London Dinner The Farmers’ Club 24 April 2015 Whitehall

Former Pupils’ Association Duncreggan House 8 May 2015 Annual General Meeting 7.30 pm

Summer BBQ Duncreggan Campus 19 June 2015? TBC

Annual Dinner City Hotel 25 September 2015 Londonderry

Precise details of all events are on the school website.

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FORMER PUPILS’ MAGAZINE ONLINE OR PRINTED COPY

I hope that you enjoyed reading the latest edition of the Former Pupils’ Magazine. This edition is currently available on the school’s website – simply click on the Former Pupils icon on the web page. In the editorial you will note that from this year it will be available principally on line and copies will only be provided and posted to those who return the mandate below. The increasing cost of publishing and postage has made this course of action essential. By filling in and returning the standing order mandate for £4 to be paid annually, a copy will be posted to you in future years and the editors will know how many copies to order from the publishers.

If you want to secure a copy in future, the mandate form below should be returned to (if you have already completed one of these and receive a copy of the magazine there is no need to complete another one. The standing order remains in place until you cancel it):- The Bursar Foyle College Duncreggan Road Londonderry BT48 0AW.

------Standing Order Mandate To: The Manager (full Your name & address of your Name: bank – in block capitals) Address: Name: Address:

Postcode: Postcode:

Please Pay From My Account - Name

Account Number Sort Code:

£4 - Annually Commencing On / /

To Credit Foyle & Londonderry College Former Pupils Association Ulster Bank Limited – Culmore Road Sort Code: 98-09-80Account Number : 77863014

Signed: Date: / /

105 BABINGTON & CROASDAILE S O L I C I T O R S

For All Your Legal Requirements

9 LIMAVADY ROAD, LONDONDERRY Tel: (028) 7131 0600 Fax: (028) 7134 5785

23 NEW ROW, COLERAINE Tel: (028) 7034 2007 Fax: (028) 7034 4277

106 107 Notes

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