St. George’s School ASSOCIATION

CHRONICLE 2016 St. George’s School Windsor Castle Association

CHRONICLE 2016

Welcome to another edition of the Chronicle. It comes at a time when the school’s communications are undergoing a transformation with a new look to the Magazine which will now be produced termly as a Newsletter. These are available on the school website at www.stgwindsor.org/Newsletter. The Association also has a presence on the school site and copies of Chronicles can be found under the Association tab. If you would like to keep abreast of events happening in today’s school however, one can now follow its output on Twitter https://twitter.com/stgwindsor as well as by visiting the website http://www.stgwindsor.org/ .

Compiling the Chronicle serves two important functions: first, it acts as a document of record that publicizes the rules of the Association and minutes of its AGM; secondly, it aims to keep members in touch one with another. It is in this second area that it is entirely dependent on its members: the more that is contributed the more valuable it will become to its members. Please do send your news either by the tradition method of postcards or on e-mail to [email protected] . If you know of any news about another former pupil do please let us know; we positively encourage parents to help by informing on their children! Obituaries

I have first to announce the obituaries and notifications that I have received.

Eric Carr (1983–1994) Bursar Eric was the much loved and respected Bursar of the School in the important period leading to the first large building scheme of 1987 and provided invaluable support and guidance during the process. He died in the spring of this year at the age of 91. George and Sue Hill attended his funeral.

Stephen Cazalet (1943–1948) Stephen passed away after a long spell in hospital and three months after his 80th Birthday. Stephen was in the Merchant Navy for many years and met his wife Ann when he was a junior Officer with Union Castle Lines. They were married in Surrey in 1963 and went to S. Africa with their two young sons where he joined Safmarine and continued his career in Containerization. Peter Walter Christopher Coombe (1944–1948) Chorister Peter won a musical exhibition to Denstone . He was the first award by the new musical teaching staff after the second world war. During his time at Denstone he had a very serious lung operation which was successful but meant missing a year’s schooling. This did not stop a musical life to which was added work in the acting department. He left Denstone in 1952.

After college his first post was at Church House Bookshop in Westminster. He worked there for some ten years, living in Richmond, where he was prominent in the local Gilbert and Sullivan productions and other musical items with his violin.

He moved from Westminster to help the Woodard Twins, grandsons of the founder of the schools, in conservation work. Dryden House in Northants was one home involved. Peter was always interested in architecture.

After, he went to Michaelhouse in South Africa where he knew the head of the Art Department. This move has remained a bit of a mystery, but did not lead to any work though he always maintained a love of the flora and fauna of that country.

He returned to this country by sea and moved to the Lizard in Cornwall where he found work with the Falmouth Jewsons branch. This suited him well, because he could look after the house which soon became the parental retirement home and he stayed with Jewsons for twenty years. He then moved to Clewer, but did not find this to his liking, and then bought a house in Exmouth in 1994. Here he settled with the local church choir and to the post of Treasurer. He had earlier completed some accountancy courses. His other interests included Gardening, the Life-Boat Association, and the Prayer Book Society: he has left us a ten volume stamp collection. He was very knowledgeable on many subjects, in particular the Railways of this country being a life member of the Talyllyn Railway Preservation Society. Contributions in his memory are being sent to this organisation..

The funeral was a simple Requiem Mass, with Doc H’s Nunc Dimittis sung by the choir he served for so many years. His interment was in the local church yard and a reception was held in the Church Hall. The Hon. Secretary represented St George’s at the service and afterwards.

A plea renewed

The Editor would be grateful for news about members of the Association, their whereabouts, appointments, achievements, or other changes in circumstances so that this Chronicle can be an ever more accurate and informative way of fulfilling the objects of the Association. Similarly, we would be grateful for notification of those members who have died so that we can mark their passing and amend the records.

New Members 2015

Catherine Alexanders (2008-2015) Zain Kothari (2005-2015) Hampton School

Henry Bishop (2009-2015) Theodor Kyriacou (2001-2015) Stowe School

Amélie Byrne (2007-2015) Lady Eleanor Holles Lacob Laniado (2005-2015) Wellington College

Dylan Byrne (2005-2015) Hampton School Zachary Laniado (2005-2015) Bradfield

Matilda Cayton (2007-2015) St George’s, Ascot David Low (2005-2015) King’s School, Canterbury

Keaton Chohan (2005-2015) Bradfield College Kristian Mathea (2006-2015) Bradfield College

Andrew Coates (2005-2015) Bradfield College Merle Mowbray (2010-2015) Sir William Perkins

Marina Daniel (2005-2015) Luken Pereira Fernandes (2009-2015) College

Joseph Debiase (2010-2015) Charles Rycroft (2007-2015)

Nicholas Foster (2005-2015) Mannat Sahota (2007-2015) St George’s, Ascot

Darcey Goble (2005-2015) Rohan Sahota (2005-2015)

Ana Graham Usabiaga (2011-2015) Sir William Borlase George Smith (2005-2015) Hampton School

Daniel Hamilton-Foster (2011-2015) Bradfield College Vikram Thakrar (2005-2015) Eton College

Lucas Jameson Fenwick (2010-2015) Bedales Elizabeth Wales (2005-2015)

Ria Konkumalla (2008-2015) Sir William Perkins Benjamin Wickers (2006-2015) St George’s, Weybridge

News from and about Association Members

Tom Berry (2001–2010) secured very favourable A level results as part of a record-breaking set of results at Hampton School and is now bound for Loughborough to read History.

Aidan Briggs (1995–1998) Aidan and his wife Zoë were blessed with a daughter, Emily, on 21st March 2016.

Michael Coombe (1938–1945) reports that he is keeping busy in Exmouth during his retirement.

Will Dawes (1989–1993) enjoyed Christopher Robinson's 80th Birthday service at John's Cambridge. Quite an occasion, and the results may still be available online here http://www.sjcchoir.co.uk/listen/webcasts/choral-evensong-celebration-80th-birthday-dr-christopher- robinson-cvo-cbe-7-may-2016 . He managed to update a name or two which the editor has added to the entry from the Hills below. His name thus gets its own entry!

Martin Denny (1981–1986) and his wife Harriet were joined by Tristan James Leslie Denny, born on 12th November 2015, a brother for Imogen.

James Heavey (2003–2012) recently secured straight level 7s in his Middle Years Programme of the International Baccalaureate Diploma at Wellington College, one of only nine students in the year to achieve this feat. Word reaches us that his brother Sam Heavey (2005–2014) has made an impressive start to his Wellington career.

George and Sue Hill (Staff 1983-1992) travelled to Cambridge for a celebration of Christopher Robinson’s 80th birthday that was held at St John’s College and during which Christopher conducted a huge choir for Evensong. An invitation to all choristers who sang during Christopher’s time as Organist and Master of the Choristers at St George’s resulted in the following former choristers singing at the occasion: Tom Roach, Nick Robinson, Neil Porter, Charlie Lort-Phillips, Rupert Beale, Simon Robson-Brown, Richard Murray-Bruce, David Leeming and Andrew Robinson. Former Lay Clerk Trevor Craddock was also singing. The Hills noted that as these individuals are now all about 40(!) they hardly recognised anybody and apologise if they have forgotten anyone. A splendid party was held afterwards.

Lucas Jameson-Fenwick (2010–2015) has progressed from his role as TV host on the stage, he starred as Eddie Hair in last summer’s production of The Demon Headmaster, to the being the real thing. At the beginning of October he was to be seen interviewing Foxes (a popular, young, Grammy- winning singer), aided by a banana, on the CBBC Official Chart Show. He was well-prepared and at ease, and even managed to coax Foxes into revealing that she enjoyed chocolate with ketchup on top!

Rose Grundon (2007–2014) has made the most of her first year at Cheltenham Ladies’ College and has particularly enjoyed History, English, Netball, Lacrosse, Tennis, Rounders and Drama. In addition she has taken part in Swimming, Athletics, Hockey and Musical Theatre Clubs. Small wonder that she commented that her year had been, “very intense, although thrilling and exciting—I have made lots of new friends and learned lots of new things.”

Roger Judd Assistant Organist & staff (1985–1990) was in St George’s on 24 November 2015 to launch his new book. Also published that day was a new recording of the Harrison & Harrison Organ and both publications mark the 50th anniversary of the current organ in the Chapel.

‘The Organs in Windsor Castle – their History and Development’ is published by the Positif Press. Roger Judd was Assistant Organist at St George’s Chapel for many years until 2008.

‘L’Orgue Symphonique’ is Assistant Director of Music Richard Pinel’s debut solo recording for the Resonus label. In line with the vision of Sydney Campbell (organist in 1965) of an English organ with a French accent, the CD showcases three significant works of the Symphonic French tradition – Vierne’s 2nd Symphonie, Roger-Ducasse’s Pastorale and Duruflé’s Magnificent Suite Op. 5.

Both the book and the CD are available in the Chapel gift shop in the Dean’s Cloister

Roderick Lambert (1982–1987) writes: In 2014, all within 2 months, I changed jobs (moving writhing HR within the Socgen group in the Czech Republic), turned 40, ran my first (and last) 10km road race (52'00" exactly) and suddenly became a father of a 3-month old boy whom I adopted together with my wife and named Sebastian Charles.

Jack Leach (2000–2010) completed his time at Wellington as deputy head of Stanley House and, with A*, A, A, and B grades under his belt, is now studying Social Sciences at Durham.

Gill Ledsham staff (1986–1995) writes: My job at St George’s wasn’t like a job—it was an adventure! Since I retired I have made a life-sized bronze fiddler and a 6-foot high enamel wall plaque of a juggler (one boy was a juggler) for the Windsor Boys’ School where I was artist in residence for ten years. The large Resurrection/Crucifixion on All Saints Tower, Dedworth and smaller Visitation there were made at the school. I have made five installations, some bronzes and lots of drawings. In June I shall be in the USA installing a group of five figures for Path Adams at his new hospital in West Virginia. I still hope that the young St George will find his way back to the Courtyard at St George’s.

Harry Mackenzie (2001–2010) has earnt a place at Bath University to study Business Administration having scored 44 out of a maximum 45 points in the International Baccalaureate Diploma at Wellington College, thus putting him in the top 1% of candidates worldwide.

Saira Masood (2006–2010) has excelled at Sir William Perkins’s School receiving 4 A*, 5As and a B grade in her recent GCSE examinations.

Hannah Mathea (2003–2010) secured three A levels at Wellington College last summer and by now should be completing a Gap Year: more details gratefully received!

Alan Mould Head Master (1993–1995) was presented with the IAPS Outstanding Service Award at the 2015 IAPS conference.

Allan McDowall (1947–1952) is happy to report that after recent health problems necessitating numerous operations he is (OK) now. He has sold his aeroplane and is now looking for a 2-seater. His boat is still on stocks having an engine overhaul.

Grace Newey (2003–2010) has completed a successful stay at Wellington College and plans to study at Drama school next. She has starred in numerous productions and has also excelled in the award- wining A Capella group.

Bella Ricketts (2012–2014) has enjoyed a successful first year at St Mary’s Ascot with some great defensive performances both as goalkeeper in the netball team and backstop in the rounders team. She has also been busy musically playing the piano in lunchtime concerts.

Alexandra (Pixie) Thompson staff (2006–2015) writes to say that she is having a great time in Switzerland enjoying the sports and the après ski! She is very sorry that she won’t be able to attend Association Day as she will still be working in the Alps. She wishes us all a successful day and the hopes the sun shines!

Kristian Tombs (2007–2012) has been selected for the British Junior squad and was invited to train in Spain in December 2015 for a week with the GB squad.

Last September he was invited to cox Stephen Redgrave, Mathew Pinsent, Greg Searle and his brother, and Roberto Blanda (all Olympic and World Champions): they all commented on Kristian’s obvious talent and he has gone on to cox them a number of times while their usual cox was unavailable. Roberto Blanda is a former Oxford Blue who has rowed in the Boat Race; we can only hope that, having impressed so influential a group of rowers, we will see Kristian coxing for Oxford in the not too distant future!

50 Years Ago

The editorial of the Chronicle for the Term of 1966 is perhaps not unique in the annals of St George’s, but it clearly reports a trying time for many!

This is unlikely to be remembered as a very satisfactory term: Rugger was interfered with by casualties of one kind and another and, after a brief spell of delightful weather which brought out the daffodils in the garden at least a fortnight earlier than usual, we were attacked at the same time by the 'flu germs which had been raging in nearly all local schools—particularly at Eton—and by a bitter wind which retarded recuperation. Three members of the teaching staff were stricken by 'flu and several others felt far from well. We were lucky to be able to call on Messrs. Price and Hall for help but, even so, the smooth flow of the term was sadly interrupted and the last weeks dragged, if not for the boys, certainly for the staff.

The term was, however, not without its high spots—the set plays, the concert, Cox and Box, the Sunningdale match—to mention only a few, and work went really well for about eight weeks at least. The boys were extremely helpful, they were ever ready to carry trays and help with the washing up, and the invalids were extremely uncomplaining, almost invariably answering the question "How are you feeling" by "very much better, thank you".

Around the school, the Science Room came into full use at the beginning of the term and the Anson did service as a games room although small groups of boys were sometimes taught there. The removal of the billiard table from the Library gave boys much more room and the collecting small armchairs to make reading there more attractive was appreciated. Off Chapel Set B made a small sofa for the Library and, with the experience gained, hoped that other Sets may follow suit.

Boys from the era might remember that they had a period without Matron during that illness ravaged term. Mrs Halsey, Matron's mother, had to have a serious operation in January. She made a good recovery but we were without Matron's services for the first five weeks of the term. We are most grateful to Miss Jackson who came to help us out over this difficult period.

In matters academic, there was success for B. D. Rapson who won a Music Scholarship to the King's School, Canterbury. Congratulations were also due to D. S. Bell who won a Music Exhibition to Bradfield.

Were the absence of Matron at the beginning of term not enough, St George’s was very grateful to Mr. Hall who came to help us towards the end of term when the Headmaster was laid up too!

Whilst the current boarders have enjoyed going to Eton of an evening over the past year to visit the pack, their predecessors went further: Three parties of boys have been beagling this term. On each occasion they have been lucky enough to witness an excellent hunt. The pack is in great form this term and it has been a great pleasure to watch them hunting on the cold scenting plough round Twyford.

The school was very grateful to Mr M. Price who came to help while Mr Smith was ill at the end of the term. Equally there was much appreciation of the generosity of the Petersen's who gave the school a substantial subscription to the Amenities Fund and to the Ramsdens who gave a chair for the Library. The Summer Term saw the School return to better health: In many cases this has been an excellent term. One boy visited the sick room for three days but otherwise it remained unused. One boy got a Winchester Scholarship and we had no Common Entrance failures. Against this we were affected by grievous staff shortage on the domestic side and our cricket team failed to win a match. Storm clouds on the educational horizon are gathering, in that there is a move to make Science a compulsory subject in Common Entrance, becoming an optional one. There is no talk of Latin being optional in Scholarship exams, however, and the problem of how to fit in Latin, Greek and Science for potential scholars is a very acute one. Another headache that Choir Schools may have to face before long is a possible reorganisation of holidays for Public Schools. One scheme envisages a much earlier summer holiday with the Christmas holidays starting about the 12th December and the Easter holiday starting about the 20th March. The other scheme will go back to the old idea of there being only two terms in the year with short breaks in the autumn and spring. If either of the schemes are adopted by Public Schools, Preparatory Schools will presumably have to follow suit and our difficulties will be very great indeed.

In matters around the school, R. J. Powell-Jones won a scholarship to Winchester, Mr Palmer left to go to Southampton University in the autumn. In addition the school community was most saddened at the news that Peggy Tunmore, who had worked in the Pantry for nearly seven years, had died in hospital in Norwich after a short period of ill-health. All remembered, with gratitude, her tremendous industry and unfailing willingness to help. Mrs Louie Smith came out of retirement to help in the dormitories once again. All those boys who had known her were delighted to see her again.

Off-Chapel Carpentry sets made a set of lockers for the cricket pavilion and so it was hoped that there would now be no excuse at all for cricket equipment to stray!

The pattern of our exams was changed. Instead of 1st and 2nd classes being given for individual subjects, all exam marks were added together and boys were awarded classes on the total marks. Boys were warned that their chances of promotion were slim if their percentage fell below 33. The effect of this was undoubtedly to create more excitement than usual and to make revision periods more serious.

Technology was on the march and the school was extremely grateful to the Mills family who donated a new and most luxurious duplicator. Similarly grateful thanks were extended to the Exhams and the Bells who had sent most handsome cheques for the Amenities Fund.

25 Years Ago

Those of you who read the Editorial of the School Magazine of 1989–1990 will remember that it bemoaned the “dearth of contributors to the magazine, particularly from members of staff, despite several impassioned pleas from the editor who feels, now, more like an author. So now, a general plea to all subscribers: if you are proud of your work, on whichever side of the teacher's desk it may be, please write and tell us about it.”

There must be the suspicion that the gap in the school archives between 1990 and the Magazine of 1996-97 is a reflection of there having been a straw and camel’s back moment soon after those words were written. It would be good to be proved wrong in this. If you possess magazines for any of the years between 1990 and 1996 please will you allow the Editor to have sight of a copy? We will happily then publish a bumper issue of 25 years ago in future editions of the Chronicle.

To fill the gap it seemed a suitable moment, unplanned as it is, to turn this Chronicle back into a form of its Magazine predecessors and bring the readership up to date with events in the school this academic year.

The current year

I very much hope that you will enjoy reading about the many activities in which the children have been involved and also of their achievements over this . It has certainly been a very successful term in so many areas of school life and the pictures speak volumes for the children’s enthusiasm for and commitment to their school. One of the key events of the term was, of course, the Integrated Inspection undertaken by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (the regulatory body which oversees standards in Independent Schools) and I was delighted that the Inspectors reported that so many areas of the school were EXCELLENT. The report is a fitting accolade to the hard work and endeavours of the whole school community and it provides a firm foundation on which we continue to build and develop for future generations of ‘Georgians’. Other particular highlights of the term saw our musicians take part in workshops at and Wellington College; our sports teams competed in matches and tournaments at home and at local prep schools, as well as at Bradfield and Wellington . Our swimmers have enjoyed success in various competitions and galas, our fencers competed in a regional competition at Wellington and the cross country teams did well at the St Piran’s and St Neot’s meetings. Our drama students enjoyed considerable success in LAMDA exams, achieving 22 Distinctions and 10 Merits; quite a remarkable achievement! So, at the end of such a busy and successful term, my sincere thanks are due to all those staff who have organised such a tremendous array of activities, trips, special events and concerts and especially to all the pupils for their outstanding achievements and for all that they have contributed to the success of the term. Happy reading! Chris McDade Head Master

Prep Schools’ Orchestral Day at Rugby School

Eleven of our young instrumentalists clambered on to two minibuses early on the morning of 25 January and travelled to Rugby School, to join with children from five other schools. The day started with a full orchestral rehearsal, sight-reading three hard pieces; despite not having seen them before, they didn’t sound too bad at all!

The children then dispersed for ‘sectionals’ with different instrument teachers, and worked in detail on their pieces for the remainder of the morning. The children from St George’s Windsor and Christchurch Oxford were lucky enough to have a guided tour of the , and play the grand chapel organ! The afternoon then commenced with a little more detailed work on their pieces, before coming back together for a full orchestral rehearsal, and what a change from the morning’s first rehearsal! After a surprise hot dog and drink, the children then performed a concert of The Can Can, the Radetzky March and Finlandia.

It was superb to see and hear the enthusiasm and skill of our young instrumentalists as they relished every note and phrase of their music. They certainly came back as evangelists for orchestral playing. Well done to them all!

Windsor Festival Chamber Choir Concert

Earlier in the year, the Chamber Choir was asked whether they would like to perform in the Windsor Festival, supporting the Windsor First Schools’ Project concerts on 17th and 18th March in St George’s Chapel – and (of course) replied with a resounding yes! Marking the 90th birthday of Queen Elizabeth II, 300 children from seven schools sang a selection of music from the key moments in the life of our monarch. The Chamber Choir helped swell the voices of the other children for most of the concert, but then came to the stage to perform the two-part ‘Brother James’ Air’ and Gary Barlow’s ‘Sing’. As their voices soared to the fan vaults of the roof and beyond, one could see the look of wonder in the eyes of the young children listening; if Chamber Choir’s role was to inspire, they certainly fulfilled their brief. Two really super concerts of which our children were proud to be a part!

Prep Schools’ Choral Day at Wellington College

Having been told to be at Wellington College ready with songs by Michael Jackson, our Chamber Choir set out on Thursday 27 February somewhat intrigued as to what a ‘Prep Schools’ Choral Day’ envisaged! Renowned conductor and livewire, Dom Peckham, started with a 10 minute silent warm up which took all 400 participants a little by surprise, but kept them totally engaged. The morning flew by with songs and singing exercises which explored technique, 4 part singing and body percussion! Several children from St George’s were chosen to sing little sections of things, with Johnny Wales, Freya Willcox and Max Evans being chosen as soloists for the afternoon concert.

Much like the Rugby visit, we were treated to hot dogs (and chips) at the break and had a chance to meet children from the other schools, as well as Mr Farrell who had judged our house music competition before half-term.

The afternoon concert attracted an audience of around 500 parents, and included an astonishing piece of music which involved Max singing a Swedish anthem whilst children around him sang notes, made bird noises, and impressions of wind and rain.

The Choir has come back with lots of techniques and helpful tips for singing which they have already spread to many other children in the school. A really superb day.

LAMDA Evening In advance of their drama exams, children had the opportunity to perform in an evening’s showcase of their thespian pursuits! Each of the performers acquitted themselves wonderfully as they performed their individual monologues, from authors such as Lewis Carroll, Alan Ayckbourn and Kenneth Grahame; these were followed by duologues in which the children sparked off each other in some hilarious scenes. What was striking throughout the whole evening was the presence the children had on stage; they commanded their audience with an ease that suggested they felt quite at home treading the boards!

YEAR 4 Drama - The Head in the Sand

On 17 March, both year 4 classes treated their families, friends and teachers to a highly enjoyable and informative production of Julia Donaldson’s ‘The Head in the Sand’. Set in Roman Britain, the play begins as a young boy digs up a bronze head from a Suffolk river. As he puzzles over it, the dramatic story of the Roman invasion of Britain unfolds in front of his eyes. Emperor Claudius, Queen Boudicca, Roman soldiers and British slave girls all play their part. With pathos, humour and sheer brilliance of performance, the children kept their audience engaged throughout the play. Well done year 4! House Competitions House Music The theme of this tremendously popular House event was ‘Kings and Queens’ and this year Mr Sean Farrell from Wellington College kindly consented to judge the competition. Revenge chose to sing Abba’s ‘Dancing Queen; Rodney opted for Queen’s ‘We Are the Champions’ accompanied by Oliver Prew (piano) and Corban Smith (drums); Victory opted for ‘Hakuna Matata’ from The Lion King; and Vindictive chose Queen’s rousing ‘Don’t Stop Me Now”. Pupils enjoyed individual performances given by James Fearon (trumpet) and Giacomo Balaes (piano) for Revenge; Madeleine Warnes (flute) and Matthew Cunningham (‘cello) for Rodney; Zach Broad (piano) and Zach Roberts (piano) for Victory; and Nicholas Pearce (piano) and Jayden Gill (drums) for Rodney. Jayden was judged to have given the best individual performance, Victory was awarded the best song and Revenge achieved the best overall score.

Rowing The Inter-House Rowing saw every pupil in Year 7 and 8 take part in a relay race, all gaining invaluable points for their respective teams. It became a two horse race between Revenge and Rodney - nothing could split them in the end and they shared the win. Hockey This term has seen the first Annual Inter-House Mixed Hockey matches take place. Everyone has been working hard this term to develop their skills in preparation for the event and this was clear to see in each tournament. The final results were quite close with Vindictive coming first with 14 points, and Revenge and Rodney in joint second place with 13 points. Congratulations to all those who took part and especially to Vindictive as the overall winners. Cross Country

All pupils who were fit and able on the last day of term competed in the Inter-House cross country event. This year the pupils were not only running to gain points for their Houses, but to raise money for Sports Relief. Gold, Silver and Bronze medals were awarded to girls and boys in each year group in our final assembly. There were several new school records with Thomas Day and Freya Wilcox breaking the U10 records and Lottie Dewar the U11 girls’ record. The final places were Revenge (1st), Vindictive (2nd), Rodney (3rd) and Victory (4th). Well done to every pupil who completed the course; now don’t forget to collect in the sponsorship money in aid of Sport Relief! Dodge-Mania!

Seemingly the most eagerly awaited House event of the year, Inter-House Dodgeball did not disappoint this term! All the children in Years 3 – 8 took part in the contest as they ducked, dodged and dived for their Houses. Revenge won the Year 3 & 4 competition, Vindictive the Year 5 & 6 and Rodney the Year 7 & 8. With one win and as runner-up twice, Rodney came out on top. A big well done to all our pupils for competing with so much effort and sportsmanship.

The Year 8 Eton Science Trip On 18th January Year 8 went to the Eton Science Museum to learn about endangered animals. We were given a sheet and the Curator told us to explore the museum and find different animals in each of four main categories: vulnerable, endangered, critically endangered and extinct. Then the Curator gave us 60 seconds to write down on sticky notes as many different reasons why animals become endangered as we could. We came up with lots but the main ones were, hunting by humans, natural disasters (famines, earthquakes etc) and increased numbers of predators. We got to hold a massive snakeskin that had been confiscated from a suitcase at Heathrow. We also got to hold a dead turtle that had also been confiscated at Heathrow. There were lots of other things had been confiscated at the museum, which is open on Sundays. Then he rounded up the talk and we all said thank you to him. It was a great lesson so thank you very much to Mr Foran for taking us. Finn Thomas, Year 8

Star Gazing Evening

This year’s Star Gazing evening was a great success, we could not have asked for better weather. Clear skies and mild temperatures were perfect for viewing the planet Jupiter and its moons Ganymede and Europa. Members of the Astronomical Society treated us to incredible views of the craters on the Moon. A big ‘thank you’ for everyone’s support. Mr Foran

World Book Day The whole school rose to the occasion and dressed up as characters from books – nearly all of the staff joined in too and we had everything from Harry Potter, Mrs Twit to the Hungry Caterpillar. A huge effort was made by all.

Andrew Weale, the well-known children’s author, told the Pre-Prep children how he became an author and held interactive workshops on ‘Nora’ and ‘Spooky Spooky House’. Then the ‘Once Upon a Bus’ company brought a double decker bus and children from Nursery to Year 4 were greeted by giant bubbles and then taken on to the bus to experience several different stories. The younger children heard ‘Room on The Broom’ (Mr McDade had a cameo role!) and the older children started off in space on the top deck and then plunged down into the sea on the lower deck for ‘Dear Greenpeace.’

Years 5-8 were treated to an afternoon of Shakespearian tales from the theatre company ‘Shakespeare Live!’. They learned about his life and works through a series of scenes from his well-known plays with swashbuckling sword fights and gory death scenes. Lots of the children got to be involved in the action on the stage too. It was a fabulous day of events! Mrs Woodrow

French Theatre Company Visit On 21st March, Y5 and Y6 had the pleasure of seeing a French play “Parlez-vous Français?” performed by French and English actors. Ben, an English boy, is on a ski trip with his school in France, but unfortunately he has an accident on the first day and his teacher takes him to the hospital. Ben’s French is limited, which makes his visit to the hospital quite difficult when his teacher has to leave for another emergency! By the end, Ben knows a lot more French, and so did the Y5 and Y6!

Ancient Greek Day Both Year 3 classes thoroughly enjoyed their Day. They took part in a variety of practical activities, such as wax tablet making, oil lamp making, medicine bags and soap carvings. These were intertwined with stories from Ancient Greece and role play, and at the end of the day, a Greek feast!

Wild Science

On 1st March a lady came to see Years 3, 4 and 5 and she brought some animals. First we saw the biggest millipede in the world. It has 400 legs and it grows 4 to 6 legs each time it grows a new bump. The second we saw was a scorpion. It didn’t move much because it is nocturnal. You can do this cool trick if you put a purple light on it it turns GREEN. Next we saw the corn snake. Its mouth is so big it would be up to an 8-year old’s elbow to hand! Then came my favourite part – the rabbit. The lady brought it just for us to learn about mammals. I stroked it. I am good with furry animals but not creepy crawlies! Willow Bartlam Year 4

‘Kings and Queens’ Workshop In Week 5 Year 1 were fully engaged in a ‘Kings and Queens’ workshop as part of their History topic. Neil from Ufton Court Educational Trust captured the children's interest with wonderful artefacts and visual resources. Both classes enjoyed dancing, dressing up and working in groups to extend their historical understanding.

Mrs Saunders

BOARDING

Chorister Surplicing Congratulations to Laurie, Nicholas and James, on being surpliced on March 6th. This is when a probationer graduates to full chorister status, and is awarded his white surplice to wear over his cassock and is given a school chorister tie. Family and friends all enjoyed the celebration that followed.

Pancake Night Flipping good fun on Shrove Tuesday! The boarders enjoyed making and eating their pancakes!

Bugs Life Boarders got to taste toasted scorpion, handle hissing cockroaches, meet giant millipedes and stroke a thorny stick insect on Bug Night. A professional entomologist entertained and educated us for over an hour on a night of wonder, delight and developing courage! Her Majesty The Queen’s 90th Birthday Celebrations

On 21st April pupils in 4, 5 and 6 went up to Windsor Castle to take part in the celebrations for Her Majesty The Queen’s 90th birthday. They were able to watch The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh from a very privileged position as they left the Castle and The Queen waved at them as she drove past. It was a very memorable day for everyone.

IAPS Swimming Finals On Saturday May 7th two of our pupils travelled to the K2 Arena in Crawley for the National Finals of the IAPS swimming. Both Dan and Camilla had qualified through regional rounds and were placed in the top 16 swimmers for their age group. They were up against some formidable opposition from schools throughout the country and both pupils swam faster in the finals than they had in the qualifying rounds. Congratulations to them both for excellent swims - Camilla came 9th in the U12 50m breaststroke and Dan was 11th in the U13 25m butterfly.

IAPS Fencing at Millfield Eight St George’s fencers made the long journey to Millfield School in Somerset for this year’s IAPS Fencing championships on Sunday. This competition attracts many of the best young fencers in the country and is always a tough event. All of our entrants fenced incredibly well and everyone won matches in the pool rounds. Nina and Jayden were amazing and gained a bronze medal each for making it to the quarter finals. Tom was the standout fencer of the weekend, finishing 3rd and receiving a beautiful trophy to take home and keep.

An Assembly to Remember We were delighted to welcome Padre Caldwell (Battalion Chaplain) and guardsmen from the Coldstream Guards to assembly on Thursday 19th May. The 1st Battalion, the Coldstream Guards, are based in Windsor and they visited the children in years 3 to 8 as we are focusing on our weekly theme of law and order. Many of the children enjoyed the opportunity to wear a real bearskin! The guardsmen who visited us this morning are on duty for Trooping the Colour in June and we wish them a very successful parade to mark the Queen’s official birthday.

Annual General Meeting

Annual General Meeting St George’s School, Windsor Castle

Saturday 27th June 2015 at 4.15pm MINUTES

The President, J Davies , was in the Chair; the Vice-President, Chris McDade, Hon. Treasurer, H.R. Mant, and Hon. Secretary, P.A. Roberts were in attendance and the following Members were recorded as present:

Lewis Abbey John Harvey Jason Presley Gerald Barry Sheila Hodgson Victoria Raynes George Bosomworth Thomas Horsfield Peter Roberts Julia Bourne (née Kazbeck Kandour Jake Roche Cleave) Maurice Kenwrick- Guy Shore Michael Bovingdon Piercy Henrietta Smethurst Paul Churchouse Hugh Mant Corinne Smith Ann Clark Katy Mason Max Ticehurst Derek Cooke Chris McDade Margaret Ward Timothy D'Arch-Smith Allan McDowall James Ward Julian Davies Beatrice McNally Robert Watson Peter Denny Razzak Mirlan Lewis Williams Madeleine Fitzgerald Iain Nisbet Bertie Wilson Emma Goble Bob Parvin Brian Hooker Sophie Potter-Mordant

1. Apologies for absence had been received from: Virginia Adams Rory Boyle N P Colquhoun Jonathan Armitage Anthony Brailsford R J Colquhoun George Bailey Ben Brownless H P Colquhoun Lindsay Barlow Tristram Burley Peter Coombe Cosima Barlow M Cardew Michael Coombe Hebe Barlow Charlotte Coates Joan Denny Logie Barrow Freddie Coates Martin Denny Thomas Berry William Colquhoun Anne Eggar James Birchall N R Colquhoun Oliver Evans Peter Bowsher W A Colquhoun Nicholas Evans Chris Evans Allan Ledger Lewis Quinn-Bower Henry Exham G. D. Leeds RSO Rees Sheffield Exham Rupert Lunnon Brother Teilo Rees James Fanshawe Andrew Mackenzie Skye Reid-Smith D. A. Fleming Williams Clement Manger Arjun Samra Robert Fovargue Joshua Mannings Anthony Shillingford Roland Gardner Roger Marsh Martin Sims Robin Gilkes A P Mayne Simon Smith Richard Halsey Rupert McGuigan William Spalding David Handcock Eleanor Moss Michael Statham P A C Harland Anthony Newell Peter Sumsion Jessie Hicks Colin Nicholson Dicky Thomas Andrew Hughes Bruce Nightingale Alexandra Thompson Dominic Hughes Philip Nourse Russell Walker Edward Jackson Meg Ormond Christopher Walkinshaw Yvonne Judge Justin Pains N H M Waring David Kay Michael Pickwoad Gavin Whitmee Robert Kidner Barrie Piper Laurence Woodford R. M. Latham Mark Piper John Young

2. Minutes The minutes of the 2014 meeting were deemed to be an accurate record and were then approved. 3. Matters arising There were no matters arising. 4. Accounts The Treasurer reported that the Association was in good financial health. There was a significant grant made to the School in the past financial year but this year there had been no requests for grants, it being thought prudent to wait for the correct project to come in future years. The accounts were presented to the membership.

Ian Nesbit proposed the adoption of the accounts and Peter Denny seconded. 5. President’s Business The President thanked the many members who had attended the Reunion and expressed the wish that they might encourage more of their contemporaries to attend in the future. He noted that it was pleasing again to see some younger faces present. The President also thanked the Head Master and Mrs McDade for hosting us and the kitchen staff and sports staff who had given of their time and skill to make the day so enjoyable. The cricket match had been played in a new format this year with the School and Association teams being mixed to form two equally matched sides. The President was extremely pleased to congratulate the Hon Secretary for hitting the winning runs from the final ball to steer his side to victory. He was also very grateful to the boys and parents of boys who had given up their time to make the game possible: a great atmosphere had been created and it was hoped that this format would be used again. The President, on behalf of all Association members, asked the Head Master to thank the Choristers for giving up one of their Saturdays to sing full evensong: it was something that meant an awful lot to many former pupils who remain extremely grateful.

The meeting was informed of the deaths of Patrick Reginald Redland Clarke (1931–1934); John Terence Patrick Crowe (known as Terry) (1947–1952); John Victor Evered (1935– 1939); Allan Kendall (Lay Clerk and Staff until 1975); I McIntyre (1949–1953); John Ross- Ross (staff 1964–1987); C. P. A. Stericker (1962–1966); and A. M. Williams (1941–1945). Those members of the Association present and their guests stood in silent tribute to these men and those others of whose deaths we are as yet unaware.

The meeting was informed that the Robert Ward Memorial Fund now stood at £9073.69 and it continued to assist pupils with the costs of events and demands that would otherwise be beyond their means. The President was pleased to inform the membership that the Head Master had intervened with Chapter and that the entirety of the collection at Evensong would be applied to the Fund.

The President announced that the Association’s guests for dinner would be Elizabeth Shore, our Special Needs teacher in Pre-Prep Dept who will be leaving at the end of term, Corinne Smith, for many years a much-loved Teaching Assistant in the Middle School and Katy Mason, Matron at St George’s for past 15 years.

6. Election of Officers Prior to the election of Officers the Honorary Secretary updated those present on a proposal for a change to the Rules of the Association designed to ensure that the committee be able to rely on the hard work and experience of the ever shrinking band of people prepared to serve. At present, after serving for three years on the committee Rule V allows a committee member to be elected for a period of three years but requires that thereafter they be prevented from standing for election for a period of one year. In the past this had led to job swapping and ruses to ensure that those willing to serve could. The proposal was that the words “and shall not be eligible for re-election as Ordinary Members for the ensuing year” be excised from the Rule V.

The motion was proposed by the Honorary Secretary, seconded by the Honorary Membership Secretary and passed by the Members Present unanimously.

The following elections were made and positions noted: President Julian Davies (serving his second year) Hon. Secretary Peter Roberts was re-elected to serve a third year. Proposed: James Ward , Seconded: Bob Parvin. Hon. Treasurer Hugh Mant was re-elected. Proposed: Allan McDowall, Seconded: Peter Roberts. Hon. Membership Secretary Brian Hooker was elected Proposed: Maggie Ward, Seconded: Allan McDowall. Ordinary members: The following members were nominated for election to the Committee Dominic Bland Jason Presley By virtue of the rule change and their willingness to continue to serve on the committee, in addition the following members were nominated: Maggie Ward James Ward All four were elected by the membership present. It was observed that Martin Denny had one year left to serve in his capacity as immediate Past President. An invitation was issued to anyone who would like to serve on the committee to make themselves known to a member of the committee. 7. Head Master’s Business The Head Master gave the following report:

I am pleased to report that the school remains in good heart and we have enjoyed another very busy and successful year. In summary, the key highlights have been:

Curriculum: The introduction of Spanish into year 6 has been a great success and the subject moves into the year 7 curriculum from September.

A new reporting system was introduced last September enabling us to monitor and track each pupil’s progress and attainment much more closely throughout the school.

Pastoral: House identity continues to be a key part of the school and our pastoral structure. This year the Houses collectively raised over £1,700 for Shelter box enabling us to fund three large boxes of urgent supplies for this excellent charity; a fantastic sum!

Facilities: All the windows in the Art, DT and Food Tech areas of the school have been replaced and we are rapidly moving forward with plans for a new pavilion on the sports fields (offers of support would be most welcome and the Head Master is available to discuss this over supper!).

Pupils’ Achievements

Year 8 CE exams: Once again, our year 8 pupils achieved some excellent results in Common Entrance. All pupils have gained places at some first class schools including Bradfield, Eton, Hampton, Harrow, Marlborough, Wellington and Westminster to name just a few. We celebrated both academic and musical success in awards gained by some of our leavers; Henry Bishop moves on to Westminster with a top Music Scholarship and similarly, Darcey Goble moves on to Marlborough also with a top Music Scholarship. Dylan Byrne achieved an Academic Scholarship to Hampton with some of the finest results ever achieved at St George’s and David Low moves on to The King’s School Canterbury with an Academic Exhibition.

Trips and Visits: Our pupils have enjoyed a wide range of educational and recreational trips and visits. The pupils in year 6 spent a week away developing their French speaking skills at the Maison Claire Fontaine in mid-West France, the year 5 pupils went away for an overnight visit to the Longridge outdoor Education Centre to develop their teamwork and leadership skills and our year 7 pupils began the academic year with two days of team building training which culminated in a return to school from lake by canoe (it’s further than you think!). Our year 8 pupils, following their CE exams, enjoyed 4 days of water sports in the Mediterranean followed by 3 days of kayaking in the Ardèche including a ‘death slide’ descent and ‘body surfing’!

Choristers: The choristers have enjoyed a very successful year with many highlights including Easter Day Matins in the presence of Her Majesty the Queen and other members of the family and the pomp and ceremony of Garter Day (there were no new Knights this year!) The school and St George’s Chapel held another very successful CFAD in February when 26 boys and their families came to Windsor to experience life as a chorister for a day. We formally auditioned 9 boys and look forward to welcoming the new intake of choristers in September.

In May, the full Chapel Choir enjoyed a very successful a mini tour to Munich where they performed a recital in the Theatinerkirche on the Saturday evening and jointly sang Mass there with the resident choir on the Sunday morning.

Staffing: At the end of this term we bid farewell to several long serving colleagues:

Guy Shore moves on to be Headmaster of Waverley Prep School, Wokingham; Libby Shore leaves to join Guy at his new school as Head of Special Needs; (Between them they have given almost 26 years of service to St George’s).

Andrea Baker (Reception class teacher) moves on to a new post at Eton End School. Oliver Lomberg (Head of Latin) leaves us to move into senior school teaching. Ben Lewis-Smith (Head of Music) leaves us to pursue his freelance career.

We welcome several new colleagues to St George’s next term in various sections of the school and we very much look forward to them joining us in September.

8. Election of Members and Honorary Members The following Members and Honorary Members were elected: Corinne Smith, Sally Saunders, Katy Mason, Yvonne Judge, Elizabeth Shore The following Honorary Members were elected: Rt Revd David Conner KCVO, Charlotte Manley LVO 9. AOB (i) Maurice Kenwrick-Piercy informed the members present about the Friends off Cathedral Music Diamond Fund which had been set up to ensure the financial security of cathedral choirs. He outlined its agenda and events planned and indicated that he would be happy to talk in greater length over supper.

(ii) Next year’s provisional date for the Reunion was set as 25th June 2016.

There being no further business, the meeting was closed by the President and those present climbed the steps to Evensong or availed themselves of the school minibus!

Rules of the Association I. Title The club shall be known as ‘The St. George’s School, Windsor Castle, Association’. II. Objects The objects shall be to encourage Members to keep in touch with each other and with the School. Members shall also be encouraged to give their support to the School, its Choral Traditions, and the Headmaster wherever they can do so. III. Membership All who have been pupils at St. George’s School, who have paid membership fees whilst at the School, shall be deemed to be Life Members of the Association. Members of the teaching and auxiliary staff may be elected Members of the Association; and others, not educated at the School, who have supported the objects of the Association to a marked degree, may be elected Honorary Members by resolution to be passed at an Annual General Meeting. IV. Officers The officers of the Association shall consist of a President, Vice-President, Honorary Secretary, Honorary Treasurer, Honorary Membership Secretary and Honorary Archivist. Terms of office shall be as follows: (a). President The President shall be elected at the Annual General Meeting to serve a term of two years in office and a further two years as a Committee member. He may not be considered for re-election as President until at least three further years after this appointment. (b). Vice-President The Vice-President shall be the Headmaster of St. George’s School for the time being, who shall be ex officio the only Vice-President of the Association. (c). Hon. Secretary The Hon. Secretary shall be elected at the Annual General Meeting, and must be re-elected annually, until the said Hon. Secretary relinquishes the post. (d). Hon. Treasurer The Hon. Treasurer shall be elected at the Annual General Meeting, and must be re-elected annually, until the said Hon. Treasurer relinquishes the post. (e). Hon. Membership Secretary The Hon. Membership Secretary shall be elected at the Annual General Meeting, and must be re-elected annually, until the said Hon. Membership Secretary relinquishes the post. (f). Hon. Archivist The Hon. Archivist shall be elected at the Annual General Meeting, and must be re-elected annually, until the said Hon. Archivist relinquishes the post.

V. Management The Association shall be managed by a committee comprising the Officers of the Association and up to five Ordinary Members, at the discretion of the Committee. Ordinary Members shall be elected at the Annual General. VI. Annual General Meeting The Annual General Meeting shall be held at St. George’s School on such day during the Summer Term as may be fixed by the Committee, or at such other time and place as the Committee may decide, at which the Hon. Secretary shall present an annual report, and the Hon. Treasurer a duly audited statement of accounts. The Officers and Committee of the Association for the ensuing year shall be elected at this meeting in accordance with Rules IV and V. Other general meetings may be called at any time by the Committee. VII. Quorum Five members of the Committee shall constitute a quorum. VIII. Subscription Such life subscription shall be paid by every Member as shall be determined in Committee and passed at a General Meeting of the Association.

These rules were last amended and ratified at the Annual General Meeting of the Association held at St. George’s School, Windsor Castle, on Saturday June 27th 2015.

Association Items for Sale The following items are available for purchase. Association tie – silk £ 15.00 Association Centenary tie – silk £ 15.00 Association tie – polyester (a few left) £ 12.00 Association favours for ladies (bows) – silk £ 10.00 Association favours for ladies (scarf) – silk £ 10.00 CD Holy is the True Light specially recorded for the Association Centenary £ 11.00 Choirs and Cloisters by Freddie Hodgson £ 10.00 CD A Celebration for Freddie Hodgson £ 7.00 Headmaster – Reflections on life at St George’s School between 1971 and 1983, by Richard Russell £ 1.25 The four-part history of St George’s School as related in School Magazines and archives, edited by Richard Russell C.V.O. Each part can be bought separately: 1. Carven Arches (up to 1930) £ 6.20 2. Soaring Vault (1930 to 1950) £ 6.20 3. Storied Banner (1950-1980) £ 6.20 4. In High Remembrance (a little different £ 6.20 from the first three volumes) All 4 above books as a set £ 24.00

To all orders please ADD postage & packing per package of £2.00 Please provide your full postal address and contact details when placing your order. Orders for the above items should be accompanied by a cheque made out to St George’s School Association and sent either to:

The Assistant Bursar, Brian Hooker, St George’s School, Windsor Castle, Windsor, SL4 1QF or by email using the subject line “StGA Order” to either: [email protected] or to [email protected]

Association website The Association now has its web presence as part of the School website: Either go through the main school site www.stgwindsor.co.uk and follow the link to the Association, or go directly to: www.stgwindsor.co.uk/home/association

Notes