THE December 2015 Sibford Rocket The annual magazine of Sibford Old Scholars’ Association INSIDE: She’s behind you! Panto queen takes to the road

Strolling down memory lane

Paperback writers ...

Five books, four authors, all connected with Sibford PLUS SOSA launches new charity Old Scholars remembered News from the annual reunion AGM reports

SOSAThe Sibford Rocket / 1 elcome to The Sibford Rocket, Wthe 2015 annual magazine of Sibford Old Scholars’ Association (SOSA). We hope that you will enjoy reading about what some of our former pupils are up to SOSC these days and share in their Sibford Old Scholars Charity memories. n last year’s Sibford Rocket your elected SOSA Committee raised the This issue has become Itopic of possibly changing SOSA into a registered charity. something of a literary fest Following much research we found that there were too many obstacles as we feature news about to overcome in order to achieve this. The Committee concluded that SOSA five new books published should be left as it is but that a separate organisation should be created to by friends of the school. The take advantage of Gift Aid. final resting place of one of Sibford Old Scholars Charity (SOSC) has been created and approved Sibford’s most unusual Old by the Charities Commission and HMRC as well as the SOSA AGM. The Scholars is revealed. There Trustees are: Ashley Shirlin (SOSC Chair and SOSA President), Mark Bennett are also reports from the (SOSC and SOSA Treasurer), Nikki Knott (SOSC Fund Raiser and SOSA annual reunion and AGM and committee member) and Amanda Brown (SOSC Bid co-ordinator and SOSA we remember old friends no committee member). longer with us. The aims of the charity are to provide funds to potential pupils, current If you’ve got news that you’d pupils and Old Scholars for educational purposes as well as to the school like to share with other Old itself. Scholars don’t forget to get in Full information on SOSC, including the constitution and how to apply for touch ... you can email me at support, along with the means to donate online, can be found at [email protected] www.sibfordosc.org or write to The Sibford Enclosed in this year’s Sibford Rocket is a separate flyer which contains Rocket, Sibford School, Sibford more information on SOSC and a donation form. As a registered charity Ferris, Banbury OX15 5QL. SOSC can claim Gift Aid from HMRC if a donor is a UK tax payer who In Friendship is paying sufficient tax. This means that for every £1 a person donates we Ali Bromhall can claim a further 25p. Also, please consider putting SOSC into your will, Editor especially if your estate is above the inheritance tax threshold. Cover photograph: Beech Drive Any donation is welcome whether it be £1 or £5,000. in Autumn captured by Michael In the few months that SOSC has existed we have raised £17,000! This Goodwin. has enabled us to help support a current pupil. This pupil would have had to The Sibford Rocket welcomes articles from Old Scholars and other interested parties. leave the school due to a change in the parent’s circumstances had we and Please note, the Editor reserves the right to others been unable to help. edit articles for reason of length or legality. The hills are alive for Libby A young Sibford pupil who won Mayflower Theatre, Southampton, a scholarship to a prestigious James Butler, writing in the stage school has received rave Portsmouth News, said: “Vocally reviews for her performance in Bill there wasn’t a weak link, particularly Kenwright’s The Sound of Music. when it came to the von Trapp Libby Griffiths was cast as children. William Keeler as Friedrich Brigitta in the UK National Tour and Libby Griffiths as Brigitta of The Sound of Music and spent both delivered brief solos; Keeler’s from December 2014 to August demonstrating an astonishing falsetto 2015 touring with the show and Libby Griffiths’ a rich tone beyond visiting venues including Bromley, her few years.” Southampton, Sheffield and Libby was at Sibford from 2011 – Glasgow. 2014 before being offered a place In a review of the show at the at the Redroofs Theatre School.

2 / The Sibford Rocket Lifetime passion for the Bard began at Sibford hakespeare is regarded as one Sibford that I first came Sof the world’s most influential to this theatre. I saw poets and dramatists. Ben Jonson Michael Redgrave in The commented that: ‘He was not of Merchant of Venice, sat an age, but for all time!’ And, as up in the gods holding we sit on the cusp of the 400th Graham Veeck's lovely anniversary of Shakespeare’s death, hot hand; went to the those words still ring true today. mop fair. It was the Shakespeare’s legacy will be first time we had seen marked in numerous ways during civilisation for weeks and the quatercentenary year. However, I was overwhelmed. in April 2015 a Sibford Old Scholar “I wrote a piece about took an early lead with the it for Gladys Burgess, publication of Women of Will about the hush that … following the feminine in descends upon the Shakespeare’s plays. audience just before the to London, still with the magazine, Described as ‘a profound, and curtain goes up. To this day I have and it was only then that the seeds profoundly illuminating, book that not forgotten that feeling … only sown at Sibford began to grow gives us the playwright’s changing instead of the expectation I felt shoots. understanding of the feminine then, now I'm sick to my shoes “The music AJ (Arthur and reveals some of his deepest with fear.” Johnstone) made us listen to; those insights’, Women of Will offers It was during her time at Sibford wretched recorders we'd been an exploration – fierce, funny (1950 ~ 1955) that Tina, or made to play; the mock elections and fearless – of the women of Christina as she was known then, and political dissertations; the art Shakespeare’s plays. took her first stage role starring competitions we'd had to enter; The author, Tina Packer, is in Five Birds in a Cage, a one act all those pacifists and missionaries hailed as one of the play in which she was from China who'd spoken to us foremost experts cast opposite fellow at Sunday Evening Meeting: the on Shakespeare and Old Scholars Jamie beautiful shrubs surrounding theatre arts and is MacDonald-Brown, the school; the fact that ‘no man also an actor, director Edward Goudge and is an island’ repeated over and and master teacher Hilary Naylor. over again … these things meant … not bad for After Sibford, Tina nothing to me then … all I was someone whose first went to sixth form interested in was fellers and food!” opportunity to visit at the local grammar she says. “Now their importance the Royal Shakespeare school where she lost and truth began to emerge. And Theatre in Stratford- sight of any acting with this came the realisation upon-Avon was thanks ambition. “I had two that one must do what one wants to Sibford School! unhappy years,” she to do most and to the best of riting in 1965 says. “I found the one's ability, otherwise your life Wfrom her dressing room atmosphere stifling; missed the is wasted. I arrived back at my overlooking the Avon at the RSC, liberalism of Sibford.” original ambition of the theatre so where she was playing the Princess Tina broke away by going to I left Woman and went to RADA.” of France in Love’s Labour’s Lost Paris where she stayed for nearly It was to prove an excellent and Luciana in The Comedy of two years … latterly writing for move. Tina was awarded the Errors, Tina recalls: “It was from Woman magazine. She returned Ronson Award for the most

The Sibford Rocket / 3 ‘Do the best of one’s ability’ ... advice from Tina Packer promising actress of her year and world, looking at the relationship in seven of them (never when after leaving RADA was offered a of mind, body, sacred texts, stand- directing) and taught the whole couple of roles in TV before none up comedy, voice and actor– canon one way or another at over other than Peter Hall offered her audience relationships. 30 colleges in the United States. the parts in the 1965 RSC season. It was in 1978 that she founded She has also received the State of Tina has enjoyed a successful the Shakespeare Company, Massachusetts’s highest honour, and varied career. She appeared Massachusetts with the aim of The Commonwealth Award, alongside Cliff Richard and Dora ‘creating and running a theatre and has been presented with six Bryan in the film Two a Penny; company that merged the honorary degrees (which gives her played Dora to Ian McKellen’s power suits of British actors and great pleasure as she never went David Copperfield for BBC TV American actors: the spoken word to regular college). and appeared in six episodes of Dr and the physical body.’ It was during the mid-90’s, Who as Patrick Troughton’s love The move was a success and that Tina first conceived the interest. today the company attracts more idea for Women of Will, and ut Shakespeare has always than 60,000 patrons annually, offers subsequently received grants from Bremained her first love and one of the most extensive actor the Guggenheim and Bunting in 1974 she moved to the States training programmes by a regional fellowships to fund the project. having been granted funding by theatre in the USA and is also Developed over a 15-year- the Ford Foundation to conduct home to an award-winning and period, Women of Will was first an 11-month project researching nationally recognized theatre-in- a one-woman performance piece, the visceral roots of Elizabethan education programme. followed by a two-actor piece, five theatre. She then received two Meanwhile, Tina has directed plays and, finally, a book … marking further grants from the Foundation most of Shakespeare’s plays (some Tina’s New York debut as both an which enabled her to travel the of them several times), acted actor and a writer. Women of Will is published by Knopf, a division of Penguin Random House. ina may be living more Tthan 4,000 miles away from Sibford but she still keeps in touch with many of her former classmates. Eleanor Smith (née Blunsom) went over to the States to visit Tina in September and saw her in a performance of Mother of the Maid at the Bernstein Theatre in Lennox. The comedy follows the tale of Joan of Arc, as seen through the eyes of her mum, played by Tina, who is doing her very best to accept the fact that her daughter is different. Tina gave Eleanor a copy of her new book Women of Will to present to the school ... which she duly Tina’s school friends Sylvia Williams (née Webster), Judi Thorpe (née Heuthwaite), Anthea did, accompanied by some James (née Lunn), Eleanor Smith (née Blunsom) and Hilary Mills (née Naylor) are of Tina’s other school pictured presenting Michael Goodwin with a copy of Women of Will. friends.

4 / The Sibford Rocket School days stand Suzy in good stead Charlie drops in by special Oh yes they do! delivery!

Sibford School receives many deliveries from a variety of different courier services, but a recent DHL arrival proved especially interesting. Former pupil Charlie Chong is now a Senior Manager with DHL’s Air Freight division in Hong Kong and took time to visit the school during a holiday in the UK. “I was at Sibford in the late 1980s,” said Charlie. “It was a marvellous time and I remember hen Suzy Aris left her Sibford Simon. Both being in the performing the teachers with great Wschool days behind her in sector, it wasn’t long before they affection.” 2006, she never dreamt that she’d started to pool their experience After leaving Sibford, end up touring the country in a and set up their own production Charlie went to City bright yellow bus offering the widest company, ‘The Panto Bus’. College in Norwich range of pantomime packages around. “The Panto Bus covers everything before returning to But that is exactly what she’s up to from theatre in education, production Hong Kong to work. now ... oh yes it is! shows, musical theatre and of course His 2015 visit to the And she credits Sibford for helping pantomime,” explains Suzy, who UK was a treat for his her to flourish into a successful plays a vital role in ensuring that all 45th birthday and he business woman with a flair for the the touring pantomimes that visit was accompanied by his arts. theatres, schools, hotels and other girlfriend, Mandy Ng So “I look back very fondly on my performance venues are up to Chun. time at Sibford,” she says. “If it wasn’t scratch. In addition, she is the main for all the opportunities and lessons seamstress, costume and set designer I received at school I don’t think as well as the choreographer for all I’d be where I am today, co-owner the productions and is also a regular and director of a thriving business performer in the shows too. that is helping to deliver the highest “Who would have guessed all that standard of touring theatre to all of little Suzy Aris, pupil at Sibford ages.” School?” she jokes. On leaving Sibford, Suzy went on And as The Sibford Rocket went to complete a three year diploma to press, Suzy was looking forward to at Masters Performing Arts College a busy few months. in Essex. The skills she learnt and “We have three pantos on the go perfected resulted in her travelling for 2015; Cinderella, Aladdin and Dick around the world and performing on Whittington,” she said. “We held some of the grandest stages. auditions back in September and It was while she was on a national discovered some fantastic talent so theatre tour of the UK that she met I’m looking forward to some fantastic her fiancé and soon-to-be husband, shows.”

The Sibford Rocket / 5 Graduation news

The school recently received a letter from Angela Milln, director of student recruitment, access and Stepping out in style admissions at the University of Former Sibford pupil David designated checkpoints. Bristol, sharing news of two SOSA Podmore (1974 ~ 79) took “Last year’s event, the Valleys members. Quaker Advices & Queries 27 100, took place in South Wales Angela wrote: At the University ‘Live Adventurously’ to heart and I finished in 46 hours and 43 of Bristol we’re keen to celebrate the over the late May Bank Holiday minutes, so I was really pleased success of our graduates and share weekend when he travelled to East with my performance this year,” their progress with their previous Lancashire to tackle a 100-mile said David. “The event has been school. Therefore, we thought you ‘non-stop’ walk. running since the early 70s and would like to know that this summer David was taking part in the Red approximately 30,000 people have these students graduated with the Rose 100 Challenge, organised entered it over the years … with following degrees: by the Long Distance Walkers just over 3,500 actually completing Jennifer Guy, Bachelor of Medicine Association. the distance within the time, and Bachelor of Surgery. And, as well as completing the which goes to show what a hard Cory Jones Bachelor of Arts in distance in a time of 42 hours and challenge it is.” History with First Class Honours. 13 minutes, he also raised £780 Spurred on by his success this We hope you will be as proud of for Greyhound Rescue West of year David has now applied to them as we are. England and £300 for the Oxford enter the Dorset 100 in 2016 SOSA would like to congratulate Animal Sanctuary. when he will again be raising Jenny and Cory, and all other “This is the second time I money for Greyhound Rescue members who successfully have attempted the LDWA 100 West of England where he works graduated from university this year. challenge and it went extremely as a volunteer. well,” said David, who has many happy memories of his time as a Penn House boy. “The weather was just perfect and the scenery was outstanding as it took in Pendle Hill (where George Fox had his famous vision which led to the formation of the Society of Friends) and the Forest of Bowland.” Each year the LDWA 100 challenge is held in a different location. Walkers have to complete Jennifer Guy (top) at Sibford 1998 the course in no longer than 48 David is pictured above with some ~ 2008 and Cory Jones at Sibford hours and are permitted only rescue greyhouds and top, with three 2010 ~ 2012. short refreshment breaks at miles down and 97 to go!

6 / The Sibford Rocket Recalling happy memories n September, the school received music, and who Ia visit from Judy Beattie (née could forget the Davidson) who was a pupil ‘Big Three' ~ between 1950 and 1957. Miss Prior, Miss Judy has been living in South Brigham and Australia since emigrating in the Miss Burgess late sixties, but has never forgotten ~ and the her time at Sibford. knowledge they Now a retired teacher, Judy was gave us. Happy in the UK to visit her daughter days.” who lives in Evesham, and so she After leaving didn’t hesitate to enjoy a nostalgic Sibford, Judy trip back to her old school. got a job “I have so many happy memories working in a of Sibford,” she says. “Walking to nursery school Meeting in the Gower, tobogganing in Birmingham in winter and throwing water on before attending Bedford Teachers’ gated community we all feel safe the boys’ playground at the Manor College. On completing her course and secure,” says Judy. “We have to make a slide … actually, if I she secured a job teaching in a a communal swimming pool and remember correctly, I fell and cut primary school also in Birmingham. gym and a huge hall where we my eyebrow so badly that I had She married her first husband enjoy many activities. Since retiring to go to hospital in Banbury for in 1961 and the couple moved to we have travelled overseas quite stitches! Redditch in Worcestershire where frequently and enjoyed Thailand “Then there were the midnight their three children were born and Indonesia. However, two years feasts in the girls’ common room, (fast forward to 2015 and they are all ago, on a trip to Bali, I fell off a nine where we cooked oranges and married and have given Judy a total metre cliff and sustained significant made toast; Sunday afternoon of eight grandchildren). damage to my right side. I had to walks and bike rides; weekly letter “We emigrated to Australia in be evacuated by Air Ambulance writing sessions; and, of course, 1969, which was a great adventure, back to Adelaide where I spent the staff … Arthur Johnstone, especially as we were accompanied three months in hospital and rehab. who introduced us to some lovely by three small children!” says Judy. I had a lot of nerve damage to my “We initially settled in a hostel leg and foot, which can apparently in Adelaide before buying a take a long time to recover from, caravan and travelling through but I am fortunate to be here and Alice Springs to Darwin, where I am grateful to all those who put spent a year teaching.” me back together.” The family then retraced During her visit to Sibford, as their steps to Adelaide and Judy well as recalling memories, Judy subsequently enjoyed a career of also took the opportunity to visit more than 30 years as a primary the Junior School to speak to school teacher. Unfortunately, some of the young pupils. her first marriage ended in “We were so impressed with divorce but she later met and what has been achieved in recent and married Bob, a Scot from years,” she said. “I think the Paisley. children are very fortunate to be Today, both Judy and Bob able to take advantage of all the have become Australian facilities that Sibford has to offer.” citizens and live in a • Judy is pictured (top) with current lifestyle complex in the Sibford pupil, seven-year-old Evie wine growing district of Bothwell; (left) with husband Bob McLaren Vale. “As we are a and (inset) in her school days.

The Sibford Rocket / 7 Final resting place of a most unusual scholar is revealed n the corner of a Midlands of this son of an aboriginal king Icemetery, located in the heart of remains unmarked, but, thanks to the Birmingham Jewellery Quarter, our research, we know that this is lie the final remains of one of where Edward Warrulan, who died Sibford’s most unusual pupils. of pneumonia aged around 19, is Edward Warrulan, at Sibford from buried.” 1847 to 1851, is believed to be The location of Warrulan’s grave the only Sibford Old Scholar ever is now included on the JQRT’s to have been presented to Queen searchable data base and his Victoria. biography, which includes mention Noted as the school’s first ever of his time at Sibford, is featured black pupil, Edward was the son of on the JQRT’s website, alongside an aboriginal chief or king named those of others interned at Tenberry. We know he died in Warstone Road and Key Hill. These The young boy remained in 1855, but discovering his final include John Baskerville, printer England under the care of Eyre resting place has, until recently, not and typographer responsible who referred to him as ‘my been easy. for the Baskerville typeface, and little protegé’ but, in 1847, when However, thanks to the Jewellery William Butler, founder of Mitchells Eyre was appointed Lieutenant Quarter Research Trust, we now and Butlers Brewery. Governor of New Zealand, know the exact site of Edward’s But how did this son of an the child was placed in the grave. aboriginal chief end up at Sibford guardianship of eminent Quaker, Established in 2010, the Trust’s School? Thomas Hodgkin, and sent to aim is to research the history and It was in 1845 that Edward study at Sibford where it was times of people and places in and Warrulan, real name Warru- hoped he would have ‘a guarded around Birmingham’s Jewellery loong, was brought to England by and religious education, instruction Quarter, particularly those buried Edward John Eyre, a celebrated in the ordinary branches of useful in the two historic cemeteries of explorer considered a ‘Protector elementary education and be Key Hill and Warstone Lane. of Aborigines’. Eyre introduced the encouraged to engage in some Doug Wilks, Chair of the Trust, child into the leading evangelical pursuits of farming or horticulture.’ visited Sibford at the 2015 Open and scientific circles of London. At After finishing school, Warrulan Day and Old Scholars’ Reunion that time there was a tradition of spent three years as an apprentice and brought with him details of presenting ‘exotic’ people to the in Banbury under the careful eyes Warrulan’s final resting place; Queen and so it was that, on 26 of the Quaker families in the area. public grave number 503, Section F, January 1846, the young Warrulan, He was subsequently employed Warstone Lane Cemetery, Hockley, dressed as a typical English at J. Middlemore, a leather Birmingham. gentleman, was introduced to establishment in Birmingham. Explained Doug: “Because it is a Queen Victoria and Prince Albert In 1855 he spent the summer public grave, the last resting place by Eyre and Colonial Secretary holidays with the Hodgkin family William Gladstone. but, on returning to Birmingham It is reported that the became ill. Pneumonia followed Queen was ‘pleased with and he died on 23 October. the general appearance • Pictured above: a sketch of and manners of the Warrulan when he was presented youthful representatives to Queen Victoria as featured of her subjects of the in the Illustrated London News. Antipodes.’ Left: Warrulan’s unmarked grave. To find out more about the Jewellery Quarter Research Trust visit www.jqrt.org. Further details about Edward Warrulan’s time at Sibford School are included in Michael Finch’s history of Sibford School, A View from the Hill, copies of which can be ordered through the SOSA website: www.sibfordoldscholars.com/shop 8 / The Sibford Rocket From pilots to pike! Two new books from Dilip Sarkar 2015 has seen the publication of Indeed, the first thing Dilip ever two very contrasting books by Old had published was an article in an Scholar and historian Dilip Sarkar. angling magazine, which he wrote The Final Few, Dilip’s latest when he was just 16. historical book, was published “I’m a river pike-fishing fanatic,” in September to mark the 75th he says. “These fish grow big, are anniversary of the Battle of Britain. in most English waterways, and It tells the stories, largely have teeth - the freshwater shark! through first-hand interviews, of I became fascinated by them as five Battle of Britain survivors a child, but was appalled at how and also features over 50 historic these wonderful, yet delicate, photographs from the personal predators, were ignorantly collections of the pilots themselves, persecuted - so I began returning many of which have never been pike alive to the river, even before reproduced before. coming to Sibford. “This is not a book glorifying “There has only been one war, far from it,” says Dilip. “What previous book on the subject, it does is contextualise the published nearly 30 years ago by experiences of these men (one the late John Sidley. So I thought it of whom lives not that far from was about time a comprehensive The Final Few is published by Sibford), and discusses issues of work on the subject was Amberley Publishing. River Pike is remembrance and survivor guilt.” published, to help put river pike published by Harper Fine Angling The second book River Pike, is on the map and to get these Books. Dilip’s first angling book, although magnificent creatures the respect Dilip is pictured above with a the subject is one that has been and understanding they rightly pike, shortly before the beast was close to his heart since childhood. deserve.” returned to the water. Amonn skates to golden success Congratulations to Old time due to having the previous five months away Scholar and heart patient, from ice-skating. However, I thought I would have a go Amonn AL-Mahrouq, who and see just how far I could push myself.” stormed to victory during Amonn, who was a pupil at Sibford from 1990 ~ the April 2015 International 94, has not always enjoyed an easy life. He was born Inclusive Ice Skating in 1977 with a life threatening heart defect (VSD), Championships held in which required complex and ground breaking surgery Braehead Curling Rink in when he was just 16 months old. However, never to Glasgow. be deterred by his unfortunate circumstances, Amonn After his previous success made an incredible and truly remarkable recovery - at the 2013 Championships, thanks to his dedicated family and teams of specialists, where he won gold in both surgeons, doctors and nurses. the compulsory and free He has always been interested in ice-skating and categories, Amonn was now trains at Guildford Spectrum Ice Rink where he determined to retain his has integrated quickly and feels ‘part of the family’. coveted ‘double gold’ title, “Everybody needs role models and being part of the which he did in impressive Inclusive Ice Skating Movement means I have had the style. pleasure of meeting some amazingly positive skaters, He said: “The competition all of whom have inspired me to continue to improve was a little awkward as I had and push the boundaries of my ice skating,” says only 12 days’ preparation Amonn.

The Sibford Rocket / 9 A new book outlining a Quaker family’s history going back some 300 years has recently been published. He is our cousin, Cousin is written by Antony Barlow (pictured right) and features many Sibford Old Scholars. Antony says: “The book is very much a personal family history, but I have also endeavoured to tell the wider history of the Society, recounting how Quaker philosophy led them all to help others less well off, to fight for the great issues that have engaged the Society of Friends since its inception, from persecution and pacifism to temperance and anti-slavery and most recently civil partnerships for gay couples and same sex marriage. In this, as in the other causes, one or other of my family have been leading champions. It is a fascinating history and one of which I am very proud.” Below Antony shares some of his family’s connections with Sibford School. The Barber family at Sibford School My mother, Joan Barlow (née financial help from Quaker Trusts, Barber), like her sister Winifred her children were enabled to go and brother Reginald, were all to Sibford School. Winifred Barber, old Sibfordians and my family, joined in 1915 and left in 1918, her therefore, has had a long brother, Reginald, was at the school association with the school. from 1918 to 1921 and finally my When my mother died in 2007 mother, Joan started in 1926 and at the age of 93, I became the left in July 1929. custodian of most of the family Despite her husband’s death, my archives, and it was this that set me grandmother, who was made of going on writing the history of my stern stuff, was determined that Quaker family. her children should not suffer the My father and my mother poverty she had lived through and came from very different Quaker always strived her hardest, so that families. My father’s family dates her children and grandchildren back to the very beginning of the could succeed, which indeed Society of Friends, to one James they did. And it is surely a great Lancaster, who was arguably tribute to her that, within less Antony’s grandmother, Ellen, pictured George Fox’s first follower. It is his than a hundred years, two of her in 1900 Bible that has come down through grandchildren – Winifred’s son the family and which still shows Barber (née Eyre) was orphaned in (my cousin Michael Rutter,) and the water marks where James 1885 and both she and her sister my own brother, David Barlow – dropped it in the incoming tide, were put into Crowley’s orphanage became a credit to her indomitable whilst fleeing persecution across in Birmingham. Happily for them, spirit. Michael was knighted for Morecambe Bay. one of the Quaker Cadbury family, services to psychiatry and David Until the late 19th century, Edward and his wife Dorothy, were became Secretary General of the Quakers tended only to marry on the board and they took a BBC. within the faith. My father’s family kindly interest in the young sisters, Among our family archives I is therefore an intricate network of often taking them out on trips discovered many memories of cousins, encompassing many of the into the countryside, where Ellen Sibford School. Win recalls being best known names in Quakerism eventually met her future husband, quite homesick to start with. The from the chocolatiers Cadbury, Fry William Barber, an apprentice matron, she says, “sensed that I and Rowntree to the nametape printer from Coleshill. was unhappy and used to come makers Cash’s of Coventry, from After their marriage in 1900, and sit on my bed and put my anti-slavery campaigners such as Ellen and William, with help from hair in curlers, something that Samuel Bowly to my grandfather, the Edward Cadbury family, I would have never had done John Henry Barlow, the leading moved to Bournville but, sadly, at home. Actually, it was quite pacifist of WW1. my grandfather was discovered uncomfortable to sleep with my My mother’s family, on the other to have a weak heart and died hair like that, but she thought it hand, came from a very poor young, leaving my grandmother would make me happy.” family in the Black Country. Indeed, to bring up the children alone. Win always had a great sense my maternal grandmother, Ellen However, with scholarships and of humour and could tell a good

10 / The Sibford Rocket Watching the birdie! How school project helped launch a lifelong hobby The 1948 edition of the SOSA Magazine* recalls a summer holiday excursion to Skokholm Island, Pembrokeshire made by teacher Arnold Darlington and a party of five Sibford boys. The magazine records that during the visit ‘they established a new record for bird ringing’. They also made a film entitled‘The Home of the Shearwater’, which ‘shows the Sibford School Science Society doing survey work on the island’ and is described as being ‘in colour’ and ‘believed to be the only film of the Manx shearwater in existence’. One pupil who remembers that visit to Skokholm well is Jim Newman (at Sibford 1944-48). Indeed, his involvement with bird ringing while at school from when I was a pupil but the atmosphere seemed was the start of a life-long passion with all things similar with calm and smiling children. ornithological. “Arnold Darlington had a big influence on me. The And so when he came to visit in May this year, school was an official bird ringing centre and we used accompanied by his cousin Don Newman (who was to have traps in the grounds so that we could catch a teacher at the school between 1955 and 1957), he the birds, weigh, measure and ring them before setting was delighted to be shown a brand new addition to them free. I think the new hide is excellent and am the school ... a bird hide which has been built in the very pleased that bird watching is still encouraged at Forest School area. Sibford.” “I enjoyed four very happy years at Sibford,” said Jim and Don are pictured above at the entrance to Jim. “And it was lovely to visit after all these years and the new bird hide. see the school is still flourishing. *Archive copies of the SOSA Magazine can be found “The school facilities are superb and very different on the SOSA website: www.sibfordoldscholars.com. story, as on another occasion she confessing how she “greatly missed writes about her first impressions, not having mint sauce!” remembering: “Soon after I started The only boy, Reginald, known at Sibford, a prefect asked me to as Reg, developed a keen love of put her bath water on. I thought sport during his time at Sibford it was a most peculiar thing to ask and was renowned as an excellent me to do and I said: ‘Why? Have all-rounder. you got something wrong with Reg left school at 16 and started your hands?’ She said ‘You cocky a life-long career with Cadbury’s, little new kid’. But I certainly didn’t ending up as Export Manager. But go and put her bath water on! I he always remained a staunch had never come across anything supporter of Sibford, becoming like that before and I found it one of the icons of SOSA and all very different and I was very ultimately their President, before miserable for the first few weeks, dying from cancer in 1965 at the but after that I was happy.” age of 59. My mother, on the other hand, Reg loved and respected the Joan Barber pictured circa 1933 always told me that she had been school so much that he sent his for his National Service, before very happy at the school from the eldest son, Graham, there in 1948. joining British Airways as a long beginning, although in one letter Graham left in 1952 and then went distance pilot. Sadly he too was to home she did reveal that there on to King’s School in Canterbury, die young, in a flying accident in was one glaring culinary omission, subsequently going into the RAF 1980, aged only 44. He is our cousin, Cousin, is published by Quacks of York

The Sibford Rocket / 11 Hugh publishes account of post-war relief work Former Sibford Head Hugh Maw has written a Quaker relief book about his experiences in war-torn Germany work and to during the aftermath of World War Two. Palestinian and Hugh, who is now 94, kept a diary of his time Israeli medical working for the Friends Relief Service in post war charities and Germany. He was based in Berlin and Cologne as an so far we have ambulance and truck driver, delivering International raised some Red Cross food and relief supplies. £20,000.” His book, The Training and Experience of Hugh was a Quaker Relief Worker, has already created Head at Sibford considerable interest. from 1956 “I had the book published because people kept ~ 1962. The asking for my original diaries and were urging me Training and Experience of a Quaker Relief to put them into print,” says Hugh. “All profits Worker is published by Words by Design. made by the sale of the book are going to German • Photo courtesy of Stourbridge News Love of sport unites girls together When Deborah Cooke a pupil here in the 1800s,” joined Sibford School in said Sally. “My mother and 1966 at the age of 13 it was her brother, Barbara and a daunting prospect. Most Clarkson Pickering, were of her fellow students had pupils at Sibford as were my joined the school at the age two sisters, Ruth and Pam.” of 11. However, she soon In Rachel’s case both her became friendly with two mother, Frances Jones (born local girls, Rachel Clark, who 1916), and her father, John was a boarder, and Sally Smedley Clark (born 1903), Walton, who was a day girl. attended Sibford, although The friendship was to they didn’t meet until much prove long lasting and, later. “They first set eyes although Rachel emigrated on each other at the Three to Canada, the three Debbie, Sally and Rachel pictured at Sibford Counties Show near Great continued to keep in touch. Malvern,” said Rachel. “The And so when Rachel got married earlier this year story goes that it started to rain and so they ran into and brought her new husband Ken to visit the UK, a one of the tents to take cover. They got talking … and trip back to Sibford to share some memories was a discovered they had been pupils at the same school!” must. Rachel’s sisters Wendy, now 78, Diana, now 75, and “This is the first time that any of us have returned Jane, now 70, all attended Sibford but it was almost a to Sibford since we left,” said Debbie (now Harley). different story when it came to finding a school for “We were all in different houses but what brought us the baby of the family. together was our love of sport.” “Mum took me to take the entrance exam at Added Sally (now Nolan): “I represented the Friends’ School, Saffron Walden but I didn’t want to county at athletics and remember being encouraged go,” said Rachel. “I loved sport and knew about the to practise the hurdles in the corridor of the Hill Sibford hockey team from visiting my sister Jane and building … I can’t image that being something that so eventually mum relented and Sibford it was.” would be approved of now!” Since leaving Sibford the three girls have all While Debbie was the first and only member of her enjoyed very different careers. Debbie spent many family to attend Sibford, both Sally and Rachel had years working in a number of hospitals as a medical strong relational ties with the school. secretary, Sally worked in a bank and for the past 15 “My mother used to say that the Morley family, years has been a post lady. Meanwhile, after emigrating relations on my grandmother’s side, were connected to Canada, Rachel has spent 22 years working for a with the original founders and my great aunt Kate was travel agency in Vancouver.

12 / The Sibford Rocket AGM 2015 The Head’s Report

am pleased to welcome so days was the Imany Old Scholars and excellence of especially pleased to see so many community, (relatively) younger Old Scholars the spirit of “here today. It is good to see the Sibford and the Old Guard too. I hope you have friendships you had a lovely day and thank you for formed here. If my invitation to lunch, and to this you have read evening’s presidential dinner. our ISI report, I am sorry that the weather has you will see interrupted proceedings, but that many of glad that it doesn’t seem to have these same dampened spirits. values were I am aware that many Old recognised and Scholars will have spent the applauded by day not only reminiscing about our inspection their time here, but also making team. I still comparisons between now and the think this spirit ‘good old days’. springs from our We have been celebrating Quaker roots ‘excellence’ and celebrating our and Quaker recent inspection report, but it ethos. is clear that ‘excellence’, perhaps In 4.3 the like ‘beauty’, is in the eye of the report says Michael Goodwin is pictured at the pre-reunion dinner in beholder. ‘The spiritual the Wykham Arms chatting to Chloe Bennett. Certainly, I don’t think any of us development of you will have noted between would consider that ‘excellence’ the pupils is excellent. Quaker then and now is the cost of an is an absolute term – what was values are central to the life independent education at Sibford excellent in ‘your day’ might not be of the school’ and again in 5.8, School. Of course, we still have similarly judged today, but I think ‘Those leading the school are some students who are funded by that what many of you enjoyed strong advocates of Quaker values a Local Education Authority, and and celebrated about your school and have been very successful in many students are on bursaries enshrining (we re-distribute nearly £400,000 these values, Pupils’ personal development is excellent. in bursaries and almost the same giving the The spiritual, moral, social and cultural again in other discounts). However, school its development of pupils is excellent. our most expensive full boarding distinctive fees are now over £26,000. Clearly, The contribution of curricular and character and it is quite difficult to raise this extra-curricular provision is excellent. underpinning from taxed income. Data from the caring, The majority of teaching seen in lessons was good the recent Independent Schools’ nurturing with many examples that were excellent. annual census shows that fees for environment boarding across the country have The contribution of arrangements for that allows doubled since 2004 and that the pastoral care is excellent. pupils of fees have increased 3.5 times faster all ages to All children make excellent progress than average incomes have grown prosper’. in their learning and development. since 1965. I know that Quaker values are central to the life of the school. The impact of this is, of course, one of the big that our customer base has ISI Inspection Report 2015 differences

The Sibford Rocket / 13 AGM 2015 HEAD’S REPORT CONTINUED shifted. The ‘commercial and this much bigger school!) we new to the school this year, but professional’ class that used to only have 60 boarders. The Junior they too catch the Sibford spirit be able to pay for fees – the kind School – a recent invention for you that has brought you back today. of people like your parents – are of course as it was only opened in This report is meant to be now largely excluded from our 1989 – now has over 100 pupils my report to you on the school boarding market. Boarding is (both these figures showing a year, but, thanks to Ali Bromhall’s becoming a luxury product, and growth since my last report to excellent magazines, constantly customers who are used to buying you). A growth in pupil numbers updated website and involvement in luxury markets have demanding and sound financial management in other social media, many of you expectations – so to be judged have led to another change from will already know (if you want ‘excellent’ in boarding in the your time at school – Sibford is to) all about our news, all about recent inspection report is all the free from debt, and I think you our successes. If you haven’t kept more remarkable. will agree that the condition of up-to-date on Facebook or on The other change in our the buildings, the refurbishments our website, then maybe you don’t customer base is that it has and upgrades, as well as the high want to know (which is fine – we become more international, and standard of our beautiful grounds, all live busy lives) ... so I won’t SOSA might want to think about point to a very different kind of go on for too long. I know our how it maintains links with an school to the one many of you General Secretary and President increasingly international ex- attended. Oh, and the food is lovely are keen to beat the 47 minute student body (SOSA Shanghai now too! record for an AGM. But this world branch might be a more attractive Maintaining ‘excellence’ is no of instant messaging must surely be venue than those reunions held easy task and I hope you will allow one of the most significant changes at SOSA East Midlands or in me to say a huge thank you to my for our boarders – no more Selly Oak Meeting House). Many colleagues, teaching and associate, weekly letters home! British boarding schools now have who work so hard to make it all One highlight of my year was the significant numbers of overseas happen. This year we are saying creation and opening of our new boarders. We are nervous about farewell to several colleagues who Peace Garden in November 2014; going down this route because we are retiring; foremost amongst part funded by Old Scholars and worry that we might lose sight of these is Di Howes, who has been opened by the parents of Conrad the very core values which we all Science Technician here since 1984. Lewis, an Old Scholar killed in recognise, so we currently limit We thank her for her service, and Afghanistan in 2011. The project our international boarders to recognise that Sibford today stands involved students and staff in around 10% of the total. on the shoulders of many giants collaboration – a process that was Of our current 430 pupils (note who laid principled foundations. as important as the impressive end I was pleased product. to see in the Our Forest School has been report that further developed this year with inspectors a new bird hide and our Year 8 recognised students took part in a stunning how successful Shakespeare Festival at the we have been start of the academic year. Our in recruiting charity work has strengthened excellent new with a degree of inter-house and staff – the inter-form competition and an music and imaginative range of fund raising the drama, ideas, including regular sales of which some of milk shakes and sponsored leg you will have waxing. We have extended our enjoyed this The school has held an imaginative range of fund raising links with local schools, sharing our morning, both events in the past year. Above, pupils wear woolly hats to resources, facilities and experience led by Heads raise money for St Mungo’s Broadway which helps people in an attempt to widen our of Department recover from the issues that create homelessness. community.

14 / The Sibford Rocket HEAD’S REPORT CONTINUED

If I can return to the subject of inspection though, I want to end with a concern. I worry that Sibford Peace Garden the whole inspection process, especially with increased pressure from central government about ‘rigour’ and ‘standards’, is making schools increasingly focus on outcomes which can be easily measured and that school leaders will spend time producing data instead of focusing on a more important task – that of helping to develop well-rounded young people. The ‘excellent meal’ we enjoyed with Old Scholars last night was not so judged because there were four potatoes not three, or 67 peas not 62, but because of much more subtle judgements about taste, presentation, atmosphere, and company. They are hard to measure, but no less valuable for In his report Michael Goodwin made mention of the new Peace this. Garden which was part funded by Old Scholars. Michael is pictured Our successes can’t always above at the official opening with Tony and Sandi Lewis (parents of be simply measured, and we former Sibford pupil Conrad Lewis who was killed while serving in certainly don’t make a pig fatter by Afghanistan) and Phil Cavill, President of Banbury Rotary Club (Rotary constantly weighing it, but I hear donated 500 crocus bulbs, representing the End Polio Now campaign, from your comments today, and to be planted in the garden). I agree with you, that the school Coincidentally, Phil is the father of two former Sibford pupils, feels to be in good heart. Thank Nicholas Cavill (at Sibford 1985 ~ 1990) and Katherine (1987 ~ 1992). you for your continued support He told The Sibford Rocket: “Due to the caring ethos at Sibford we and interest. Thank you for coming watched both Nick & Kathy flourish during their time at the school back. See you next year! and develop into confident young adults who went on to achieve Comments success in their chosen careers.” • David Smith commented that it Nick and Kathy both now live in Sydney where Nick is Vice was a shame that current pupils President (Corporate Solutions & Claims) at Swiss Re International were no longer let loose in the (Australia) and Kathy is Marketing Director (Australia & New Zealand) countryside. at Nutricia, a division of Group Danone. • Ian Weatherhead asked whether Nick recalls: “My lasting impression of Sibford is just what a great the Head communicated with place it was to go to school, and how lucky I was to go there. Being other private schools. The Head such a small school, it felt like you knew everyone, and there was a replied that he had meetings with real community feel to it. Although, on the flip side of that, the small other Quaker School Heads and size of the school meant we didn’t win many of our sporting fixtures other organisations. against the larger schools in the area!” • Ian Weatherhead also asked if Adds Kathy: “I spent a very happy five years at Sibford and have many the school had contact with the fond memories, especially of all the extra-curricular activities ... playing British Council. The Head replied hockey, rounders, netball, tennis, squash and completing my Duke Of that he was one of the first 80 Edinburgh Bronze and Silver Awards. I made some great and lasting Heads to visit China thanks to the friendships during my school years and strongly believe that Sibford British Council. played a huge role in shaping me into the person I am today.”

The Sibford Rocket / 15 AGM 2015 MINUTES OF THE 109th SOSA AGM HELD 13 JUNE 2015 Members and non-members including Charitable Status, utilise the scanning skills of a young attending the Annual General our publication of The Sibford Old Scholar, Beth Birkbeck, and Meeting were warmly welcomed Rocket, the inclusion of younger were able to pay her for her time. by the President Edd Frost. There Old Scholars, and of course the I do hope you’ll agree with me were 41 members and attenders management of SOSA finances. that today has been an enjoyable present. For the first time in some years event. Old acquaintances will have 1. Greetings and Apologies: the SOSA magazine, The Rocket, been reignited and old stories Presented by Edd Frost was published separately from the shared as we all gather in the place Grace Beckerlegge, George & school’s own magazine. We also that holds so many memories of Margaret Bunney, Helen George moved the publication date and our school days. (née Beresford), Anna Green, Tom sent it out in December rather I would like to thank the SOSA Davies, Jimmy Setna, David Laity, than with the reunion invites. This, Committee for all their efforts Alfred Holland, Arthur Harrison, we feel, seems to have worked over the last year and their Eddie Goudge, Hilary (née well and I would like to thank support to me, their President. In Thornton) and John Haddleton. Ali Bromhall publicly for her particular I would like to thank 2. Obituaries: production of the magazine, which Ashley Shirlin for his support and Presented by Edd Frost I felt was very well put together. management of my duties as I will Philip George Manasseh at Sibford Over the last few years SOSA be first to admit that I needed 1938-1946, died 25th August has reported significant losses. prodding and nudging at certain 2014 aged 84; Sheila Stewart (née As a result of this, this year the times whilst trying to run my own McCairn) teacher at Sibford in committee made a conscious business. the late 1940’s-early 1950’s, died effort to halt this trend as our We say goodbye to Caroline Mills 3rd September 2014 aged 86; finances were somewhat low. Peter who will be leaving the committee Margaret Byatt (née Boardman) at Robinson will report in greater after being involved for many Sibford 1944-1947; Norman Smith detail but we are pleased to report years. Caroline is the only current at Sibford 1935-1938; Fred Rowley that our income exceeded our member of the committee who at Sibford 1948-1952, died 19th expenditure. I am also pleased to was actually at school at the same July 2014 ; Raymond Bond; Peter report that we still managed to time as me (although she was many Smart; Chris Evans; Philip Morris; donate to a number of projects. years older than me!) and it was John Edward Smith at Sibford 1960 The committee was particularly especially rewarding to pass onto -1966; Hazel Evelyn Lake (née proud and pleased to have made a Caroline the SOSA Presidency last Parkin); David Frederick Jeffrey, significant contribution to the new year from my previous term back Mary Waterfall (née Eaves) Peace Garden which, for anyone in 2012/13 knowing that her family The meeting held a few moments who has not yet seen it, is a superb history with Sibford goes back of silence. structure that was created to many generations. 3. Minutes mark the 100th anniversary of the All there is left for me to say Presented by Edd Frost outbreak of WW1. A beautifully now is that it is also a pleasure The Minutes of the last SOSA created and crafted area that will to be passing the Presidency this Annual General Meeting held on be appreciated and enjoyed for, we time to Ashley Shirlin who, many 14th June 2014 were unanimously hope, many years to come. We of you will know, has a long history approved by the AGM and signed also were very pleased to continue also with SOSA. In fact he’s had as a true record by the President. to support a number of current more come backs than JR having 4. President’s Report: pupils who were in need of our many roles within the organisation Presented by Edd Frost financial assistance with various for many years. Ashley will, in This year has seen two new school trips and educational needs, his two year term, be steering members on the committee, Mark something SOSA has always been SOSA towards the school’s 175th Bennett and Nikki Knott, who we pleased to support. Anniversary in 2017 and I can’t welcomed and greatly appreciated Also, very importantly, we have think of a better man to be doing their expertise and new ideas to been pleased to have digitised the the driving. committee over the past year. SOSA archive albums. Several of Thanks once again to Michael This past year the committee these are already available on the Goodwin and the staff of Sibford has addressed a number of issues website. We were also able to for being so welcoming to us all

16 / The Sibford Rocket MINUTES OF THE 109th SOSA AGM HELD 13 JUNE 2015

here today and encouraging us to share with the busy life of the school. Thank you. 5. General Secretary’s Report: Presented by Ashley Shirlin. Although I was General Secretary some years ago, I would like to start my report by thanking Mike Finch for his help, assistance and support over the last year. I think he let me off easily during my previous term by undertaking a lot of tasks himself! I’d like to comment on four main areas and raise them for discussion. Makeup of the Committee When I was previously General Secretary, the SOSA Committee President Edd Frost (right) and General Secretary Ashley Shirlin was much bigger. I entirely pictured at the 2015 AGM. understand the reasons for reducing the size of the committee apparent since the invites were Even when we recruited but I believe that it may have gone sent out that this role has grown younger Old Scholars we have a little too far and that we should significantly. Advertising (and had problems in retaining them consider a number of changes. re-advertising) the reunion on for a number of reasons. By co- I think we should re-introduce social media is a time-consuming opting three younger Old Scholars the roles of Membership Secretary exercise. For example, I have each year, a group of friends could and possibly Reunion Secretary published the names of people join together as was the case in on three-year terms as we did attending the reunion on the the past. I believe that this would last year for the Treasurer. I also website this year as I did for the make SOSA and the committee think that we should co-opt three 1974 Leavers’ Lunch last year. less intimidating as there is safety younger Old Scholars each year on This has encouraged additional in numbers and they would not one-year terms. people to attend. Whereas I have to go through a potentially As concerns a Membership enjoy arranging reunions I believe competitive election at the AGM. Secretary, Wendy Finch has been that this role might better be This wouldn’t require a rule undertaking this role for several undertaken by an elected Reunion change. years as a co-opted member of Secretary. I hope the meeting The meeting unanimously approved the committee. Again, it seems will support a late rule change the re-introduction of both the sensible to formalise this role to introduce an elected Reunion Membership Secretary and the especially as the re-launched Secretary. Reunion Secretary. website is generating additional SOSA has long struggled to Membership and the Website work. I’m delighted to say that attract younger Old Scholars. We With regards to membership Wendy is happy to continue in have tried several things in the over the last year, Wendy advises this role and would be appointed past but, to my knowledge, the that: “In September 2014, 64 as Membership Secretary if only approach that was reasonably leavers were added to the SOSA this meeting approves the re- successful was when pupils became database making 1,303 SOSA introduction of this elected helpers at the reunion and then members recorded, of which 188 post and if there are no other went on to become committee are addresses unknown, making candidates from the floor. members initially involved with the a total of 1,115 contactable It has fallen to me, as General reunion itself. Harriet Langridge members. Those with email Secretary, to undertake the role of (Jones as was) is a great example addresses are 259.” Reunion Secretary. It has become of this. Wendy continues to keep the

The Sibford Rocket / 17 AGM 2015 MINUTES OF THE 109th SOSA AGM CONTINUED SOSA address information up-to on-line registration form in order today’s meals was paid for on-line. -date and adds information on to stop putting people off. If people SOSA will always have significant Old Scholars who do not wish to register we can contact them printing and postage costs, become SOSA members to the directly. primarily associated with The alumni database. Every couple of months or so Rocket, but as this is also available Mike and Wendy will continue I email all the people registered via the website this may diminish to add information to the alumni on the site. These emails contain over time. I personally, however, and Mike has now completed information on the availability of enjoy receiving The Rocket in the inputting data from the 1842 – new photo albums, the reunion, post and I know that many others 1892 Admission Registers making The Rocket and other news. I also feel the same. a total of 3,734 records held – as post this information on various Liz Cordiner commented that she the last pupil to enter the school is Sibford Facebook groups which found the website to be extremely number 9,133 we still have a little contain a lot of members not on informative. way to go with this project. the SOSA database. Voting We should thank both Wendy Although, by trade I’m an IT With regards to voting, the and Mike for their continued person, I only use Facebook. It committee is interested in hearing efforts in this area. would benefit the Association if a the views of the AGM on the topic As many of you are aware the younger Old Scholar took up the of allowing postal and electronic SOSA website was re-launched in reins of co-ordinating information voting. This year I made available April 2014. In terms of visitors, the on social media. I would hope that to the entire membership the website has done very well with a younger Old Scholar could take majority of the proposed rule about 4,700 unique visitors who up this role. changes in advance of the AGM. have viewed about 25,000 pages. The use of the internet, in It seems harsh to me that we The three main areas of interest general, is making a significant disenfranchise SOSA members on the site are the photo albums impact on SOSA. We have saved who cannot attend the AGM for (recently scanned in by a young money by not sending the reunion one reason or another. Old Scholar), copies of the SOSA information to SOSA members Mike Finch commented that Magazine (going back to 1904) and whose email addresses we have on after many years of being against the reunion information pages. record. Many of the Old Scholars postal voting he had now changed Where the website has not been attending today’s reunion have his mind and was in favour. The terribly successful is that less than done so because of the online meeting unanimously agreed that 150 people have registered on the promotion of the reunion. About electronic and postal voting should site. I think we need to simplify the 40% of the money collected for be adopted. The committee is to propose the appropriate change to the constitution. 175th Anniversary The final point I’d like to raise concerns the 175th anniversary of the founding of Sibford School which will take place in 2017. It may seem a bit early to consider this but some things take longer than others to organise. I’d like to suggest that we put aside £3,000 of SOSA’s funds to undertake a joint project with the school along the lines of the new Peace Garden that SOSA helped to support and that we, as Old Scholars, separately mark this occasion. For example, Duke of Edinburgh expedition in the 1970s ... photograph from one of the Mike Finch could produce an albums that has been scanned and now feature on the SOSA website. addendum to his book ‘A View

18 / The Sibford Rocket MINUTES OF THE 109th SOSA AGM CONTINUED

from the Hill’ covering a life story objections would still apply unless from each of the last 17 or 18 we completely replaced the SOSA decades. He has already made a Constitution with a document of draft start on this idea. some 25-30 pages. Additionally, Paul Frampton commented that expenditure on The Sibford SOSA should have more ambition Rocket, the reunion and the than to allocate £3,000. He stated Archives would not be regarded that parents of existing pupils by the Charities Commission as were funding SOSA through their legitimate charitable expenses. contributions but nothing was being In light of this, the sub- received from Old Scholars. committee reported back to Ian Weatherhead proposed that the full committee that it would SOSA should have an ambition to be preferable for a separate raise £25,000. This was agreed by the organisation to be created if Old meeting. Scholars wished to donate using To conclude, this last year has Gift Aid. This was approved by the been a fairly brutal re-introduction SOSA Committee. Ashley Shirlin at the 2015 reunion for me to the role of General In the 2014 Rocket we sought better spent on the aims of the Secretary. I can’t honestly say that the opinions of all SOSA members charity rather than administration. I’ve enjoyed it as there have been a and also used social media to ask It is also important to point few issues that have caused friction for additional views as well as out that SOSC trustees do not but hopefully Old Scholars will see asking the opinions of Old Scholars personally benefit from the charity. that I and the committee are trying who had registered on the SOSA The SOSC constitution has been to serve all Old Scholars, whatever website. No objections were written so that there is no limit their age group, even though there raised at the time and indeed many on the number of trustees and may be disagreements on how this people supported the concept. we have also allowed for non- is best achieved. With this background, three of old scholar trustees in case an 6. Charitable Status: the committee – myself, Nikki organisation wishes to make a Presented by Ashley Shirlin Knott and Mark Bennett along significant donation but also wishes At previous AGMs, going back over with another Old Scholar, Amanda to appoint a Trustee. many years, SOSA has considered Brown, decided to commence the As concerns the aims of SOSC, becoming a Registered Charity. process of setting up a Registered these are entirely associated The fundamental problem has been Charity as this takes considerable with education for the needy. The that the Charities Commission time. Charities Commission has a very has regarded SOSA as an ‘old There are many forms that a specific way in which aims must be boys’/girls’ organisation’ and has charity may take. The route that worded and very specific causes therefore not been prepared to we felt was most appropriate that they approve. However, in accept its change to Charitable was to set up a CIO (Charitable essence, SOSC will give money to Status. Incorporated Organisation) with prospective pupils, current pupils Last September the SOSA the only members being the and Old Scholars who are in need Committee formed a sub- trustees. CIO’s are now, generally, of financial assistance. SOSC will committee comprising Peter what the Charities Commission also give money to the school for Robinson (SOSA’s Treasurer and prefers. The Mount Old Scholars projects that benefit all current the school’s Business Manager), Association is also considering pupils. Nikki Knott (a committee member this option. Our reasons for not I’m delighted to report that the and a fund raiser for a number having a wider membership are Charities Commission approved of charities) and myself as SOSA primarily associated with the cost the formation of SOSC and so the General Secretary to investigate and effort involved. However, it is organisation now legally exists. charitable status. anticipated that SOSC trustees The constitution, along with its Following our investigations will primarily be sourced from Grant Making Policy and other it became apparent that the the SOSA Committee. The SOSC documents, are available via Charities Commission’s previous Trustees believe that donations are the SOSC website. I’ve also

The Sibford Rocket / 19 AGM 2015 MINUTES OF THE 109th SOSA AGM CONTINUED printed a couple of copies of the have an organisation that has depend on the generosity of Old Constitution for those interested been accepted by the Charities Scholars. As things stand the SOSC in reading the full 14 pages today. Commission and HMRC rather bank account contains about The flyers that have been displayed than be in this position in 12 £6,800. More significantly, an Old in the SOSA marquee and that you months’ time. Interestingly, an Old Scholar has pledged £5,000 a year have on your chairs, detail the aims Scholar donated £5,000 purely on for the next five years. When of SOSC and provide additional the basis of my email last October you include Gift Aid this £25,000 information. detailing SOSC’s aims during the becomes £31,250! So, what does this mean in consultation period. I hope that this meeting will practice? We envisage that SOSA An unbelievable amount of work support what we have done and will continue as at present, with has been undertaken by the SOSC what we are hoping to achieve. I income deriving from what the trustees and others. In order to also hope that this support might school collects on our behalf from ensure that donations go entirely also take the form of hard cash! current pupils. This income will to the charity’s aims one of the Anne Muir and June Ellis then be spent primarily on The trustees donated £2,000 towards congratulated Ashley Shirlin for setting Rocket, reunions and the archives initial set up costs like the flyers. up the charity. as well as the existing SOSA Our objective is to raise £50,000 Mike Finch stated that SOSA had aims. SOSC will be a fundraising a year via SOSC. Whether we been trying to resolve the issue of organisation independent of achieve this target or not will charitable status for 50 years. SOSA finances. Old Scholars can either donate to SOSA or SOSC. Treasurer’s Report However, by donating to SOSC, I prepare this report covering annual subscription from the the Charity can claim Gift Aid, two periods, one for the year to school and those sums paid by Old which increases a donation by 25% 31st July 2014 and the second for Scholars as an annual contribution if the donor is a UK tax payer and a period of eight months to 31st to membership funds. is paying sufficient tax. March 2015, in the hope that those Other funds were realised from As concerns giving money away present will agree to a change in the annual reunion and donations SOSC is integrated with the the reporting year. including the sale of the history of school’s bursary procedures as It has always seemed an anomaly Sibford, ‘A view from the Hill’. concerns prospective and current to be reporting on a period so A one off payment of £4,640 is pupils. Peter Robinson has kindly long after it has concluded and also included which was due to a agreed to act as an advisor to the suggested change makes good miscalculation in the contribution SOSC in cases where a bid is sense for this reason. However due from school to association received directly via the SOSC when agreeing to this change you over a number of years. This website or from the school itself. should be mindful that the SOSA matter was discussed at last year’s Where bids are received from year will no longer align with the AGM and an apology made at this Old Scholars or the school itself school year and therefore the time. the SOSC trustees will assess each inspection of accounts would need Expenditure for the year totalled application according to the Grant to be completed by an external £15,588. The most significant Making Policy. party. This would however be the expenditure related to magazine Some comments have been case with a change of Treasurer. and newsletter costs including made that the four SOSC trustees So this will be my last report as postage for these. A one off for jumped the gun by forming the Treasurer as after this meeting I the new website totalling £1,880 is charity prior to this AGM. We did will pass the role to Mark Bennett shown in the figures presented. however attempt to consult with who has agreed to stand for this SOSA kindly agreed to support Old Scholars via The Sibford post. the building of a new Junior School Rocket, the website and Facebook You will find that you have two play area – the school is grateful along with other discussions. We sets of accounts in front of you; for this support. also went through the process the first is for the period from 1st Overall for the year the accounts of obtaining the approval of the August 2013 to 31st July 2014. show a loss of £2,914. SOSA Committee. I’d rather The income for the year totalled The balance sheet shows that be here today saying that we £12,765; this is made up of the the Association had total funds

20 / The Sibford Rocket MINUTES OF THE 109th SOSA AGM CONTINUED

Ann Muir proposed and Simon inspectors from the Independent in November of a Peace Garden. Matthews seconded that SOSA should Schools Inspectorate, who finally All the students – from the support SOSC. This was unanimously came just before Easter. We then youngsters in the Junior School to agreed by the meeting with one had a long wait for their report, the Sixth Formers – were involved abstention. which the school received at the in designing and making the garden 7. Treasurer’s Report: end of May. Their report was very and the garden was opened at a Presented by Peter Robinson. positive, and you will probably very moving ceremony by Tony and A copy of the report is shown in not be surprised to learn that the Sandi Lewis, parents of Conrad the grey panel below. school is praised for providing an Lewis, a former pupil, who was 8. Head’s Report: environment that enables pupils to killed in Afghanistan on 9 February Presented by Michael Goodwin. ‘develop in confidence, self-esteem 2011. The Peace Garden is behind A copy of the report is shown on and tolerance’. There are lots of the horticulture area and is a place pages 13 ~ 15. ‘excellents’ in the report, which where staff, pupils and visitors 9. School Committee the school has been celebrating to the school can go for quiet Representative’s Report: this morning. reflection. I hope if you haven’t Presented by Margaret Shelley The school joined in with already found it that you will go School activities to commemorate the and have a look at it while you are A large part of the Spring term 100th anniversary of the start of here. was spent waiting for the school World War One with the opening As well as looking back, the school is looking forward. Dean Treasurer’s Report Wood (an Old Scholar), who of £9,652, with £3,872 in the The 2013/14 accounts form part runs the car dealership at The Firs current account and £5,430 in an of the overall school accounts Garage, has lent the school a plug- investment account. although they are not reported in hybrid car so that the students The second set of accounts is for within them due to the extent of can learn more about technology, the period from 1st August 2014 the activity taking place and are engineering and environmental to 31st April 2015. agreed on this basis. I ask that issues. Dean has also invited some These show income for the these accounts be agreed. of the present students to go to year as £11,691; this includes a The part year accounts have not The Firs to learn more about donation of £4,855 to the Sibford to date been inspected but on this both the hybrid technology and Old Scholars Charity, which has basis I ask that they are approved. career opportunities in mechanics, now been transferred to the engineering and the motor new charity at the request of the Comments industry. You’ll probably see the General Secretary. • Ian Weatherhead commented car parked in the school grounds, Costs for the year totalled that the level of interest being and the school has installed a £5,291 – it is hard to compare received was low. Ashley Shirlin charge point for electric vehicles. with previous years as this is for an responded that long term School Committee eight-month period; however the investments were no longer There have been a couple of most significant costs relate to the viable since the abolition of the changes to School Committee magazine and newsletter, the cost Life Membership Fund. Paul Levy since the last SOSA AGM. We of which has reduced significantly. commented that a higher interest said goodbye in December to Alex The decision to have a lunch and account would only net an extra Wingfield and John Gould, who evening meal resulted in additional £27 and this wasn’t worthwhile both reached the end of their expenditure. as the funds would be tied up. term of service. We were joined It is pleasing to report a surplus Hugo Finley concurred. in January by Philip Jones, a Friend from Leicestershire, who is a for the part-year of £6,400 and • Ashley Shirlin proposed that retired solicitor now working as a £1,545 when the one-off donation the accounts be approved; this street pastor. is transferred. was seconded by Edd Frost and Cindy Poulton, who was the The balance sheet shows a unanimously agreed. healthy position with £10,254 in SOSA rep on School Committee • Margaret Shelley thanked Peter for eight years and who was then the current account and £5,448 in for all his efforts. investments. co-opted to be Assistant

The Sibford Rocket / 21 AGM 2015 MINUTES OF THE 109th SOSA AGM CONTINUED regarding whether the accounts had to be signed by a ‘qualified accountant’ the previously circulated change was discussed. Hugo Finley commented that he felt that an appropriate accountant might be required but Peter Robinson informed him that this was not necessary as SOSA’s income was below the threshold. Ashley Shirlin proposed, seconded by Mike Finch, that the previously circulated change be made. This was unanimously agreed. 11. Election of Officers: Presented by Edd Frost. Treasurer: Mark Bennett (1/8/15 – Old Scholar Dean Wood (pictured alongside Sibford Business Manager Peter 31/7/18). Proposer: Ashley Shirlin, Robinson), has lent the school a plug-in hybrid car so that the students can Seconder: Clyde Goodwin. learn more about technology, engineering and environmental issues. School Committee Representative: Margaret Shelley (1/1/16 – Clerk of the Finance and Premises Mike Finch proposed that Clause 31/12/19). Proposer: Erica Strofton, sub-committee, will have been on 3c be extended to include ‘They Seconder: Loraine Spencer. School Committee for 12 years would be invited to make an Membership Secretary: Wendy at the end of 2015. We have so appropriate donation.’ Finch (1/8/15 – 31/7/18). Proposer: valued her experience and her Ashley Shirlin proposed, seconded Ashley Shirlin, Seconder: Erica commitment to the school, but by Mike Finch, that Clause 3 Strofton. the memorandum and articles set be replaced by the previously Committee member: Amanda an absolute limit of 12 years of circulated wording and extended Brown (1/8/15 – 31/7/18). service and we shall have to say by Mike Finch’s amendment. This Proposer: Mike Finch, Seconder: goodbye to her at the end of this was unanimously agreed. Wendy Finch. year. Clause 4 – Following the Committee member: Harriet I shall have been on School comments at last year’s AGM Langridge (1/8/15 – 31/7/16). Committee for four years at regarding SOSA’s financial year, Proposer: Ashley Shirlin, Seconder: the end of 2015 – under the Ashley Shirlin proposed, seconded Jon Leo memorandum and articles of by Mike Finch, that the previously Reunion Secretary: No candidate. association I could be re-appointed circulated change be made. This The above committee members for a further four years if the AGM was unanimously agreed. were unanimously elected. wants me to continue. Clause 5 – For the reasons 12. Honorary Life It has been good to see Richard detailed in the General Secretary’s Membership: Hughes back at school. report concerning the re- Edd Frost informed the Michael Goodwin commented that introduction of certain posts a meeting that Erica Strofton had the recent ISI report had categorised rule change was proposed. The been awarded Honorary Life the school governors as being previously circulated amendments Membership. This was met with ‘excellent’. were slightly amended to allow unanimous approval. 10. Proposed Amendments to for the election of a Reunion 13 Any Other Business the Constitution: Secretary and a Membership Mike Finch thanked the President Presented by Ashley Shirlin Secretary. Ashley Shirlin proposed, and the General Secretary for Clause 3 – Following the seconded by Mike Finch, that their handling of the AGM. comments at last year’s AGM the changes be made. This was concerning an ‘opt out’, a complete unanimously agreed. There being no other business the replacement of Clause 3 was Clause 7a – Following the meeting closed at 17.36. proposed. comments at last year’s AGM

22 / The Sibford Rocket MINUTES OF THE 109th SOSA AGM CONTINUED REVIEW OF THE ANNUAL REUNION COMPILED BY ANITA SAMPSON née Brown Going back t took me years to build up the Road but then Ienthusiasm to visit my old school. pulling round Some old school friends pushed the side of the and prodded until I gave in and sports field the said, “OK”. I felt so nervous.Who view was totally would be there? Would anybody different – a field remember me? What’s the old of solar panels place like now? A billion questions (great they are came to mind. eco-friendly) and The road into Sibford Ferris did huge brightly not appear to change – Greens coloured was still there! Sadly, gone was buildings – The Manor as we knew it. I spent this was not June Ellis (right) pictured with Jeanne Little (née Darling) many a day down in Gillett House, the school I at the 2015 reunion I was surprised to see so many avoiding Ms Warren and the big remember. people and loads from the era dog Rollie. The best memory that Once inside the school I realised, when I was there – some people comes to mind in a good way, so had really not changed – others is when Helen much was the had changed beyond recognition. I Matthews and same. I fondly don’t think I had lost all possibility I were in First looked around of being recognised as people with Form ... hungry my classroom and no hair or beards (or both) were one night we memories came coming up to me to say, “Hello snuck downstairs, flooding back: Mr easily got into the Higgins, English; Mr kitchen, found the Rye, French; Doss goodies ... and (Mr Gilchrist), then we heard the Geography (famed door! Somehow Old Scholars enjoying the for his excellent aim we both hid in the reunion lunch ... school dinners at chalk throwing). cupboards and were never like this! I ventured into felt we had dodged Granny (aka the cookery room – the room Ms Warren) until that darn dog of nightmares for me!! I hated sniffed us out … oh well, another cooking (and still do). My best punishment!! memory in that room was the Anita Sampson and Amanda Brown Getting to the school grounds massive slab of cooking chocolate catch up on some school memories. is now via a different entrance in the larder behind the door. Below: Some of the many Old – the first sight of The Hill was (Yes I checked – it was locked on Scholars who attended the 2015 great from the Hook Norton reunion day!). reunion.

The Sibford Rocket / 23 AGM 2015 REVIEW OF THE ANNUAL REUNION continued Anita” (they didn’t look like that at school so I had no idea half the time 2015 Reunion who they were.) Attendees In a funny way it was all as if it Amongst those attending the was yesterday being there again. AGM and/or reunion were the following – with apologies to One thing was very, very different anyone we’ve missed: – I attended the SOSA lunch – I so ABERCROMBIE Barbara (née don’t remember the school dinners Secombe); BARFOOT Simon; tasting like that ... it was delicious. BARRETT John and Gill; To my great delight I met Miss Ellis BEEBY Judith (née Bunce) and (I still can’t call her June) – her big Colin; BELCHER Liz (née Tew); smile and those eyes that appear BENNETT Chloe and Nick; to say, ‘’What are you up to now?’’ BOND Ann; BROMHALL Ali; BROWN Helen (née White); were upon me once more. It was a BROWN Amanda (née Cade); warm sort of homely feel. I got to CAMPBELL Cari (née Stuart) know Miss Ellis very well at school – and Tudor; CASSON Diana mainly because I spent so much time (née Ricci); CHERRY Richard; standing outside her office at The CORDINER Liz (née Hockley); CRAWFORD Andrew; Manor ... we couldn’t all be angels DAVIDSON Brigid; ELIAS Jan; now could we? ELLIS June; EVANS Anne (née I know from my old school friends that Tucker); FINCH Mike and Wendy; a lot of time and effort goes into arranging FRAMPTON Paul; FINLEY Hugo; the reunions (and sometimes for very little FLETCHER Ruth (née Harrison); FROST Edd; GOODWIN gratitude) but I have to confess, I now regret Clyde; GOODWIN Michael; not having visited more often. I was able to HENDERSON David; HUGHES catch up with so many of my old classmates Richard; JENKINS Debbie (née and intend to maintain the contact. We Price) and Mickey; JOHNSON laughed so much about old times. I am looking Steve; KROHNERT Nikolai and Nadja; LEO Chris; LEO Jon; forward to the 40th anniversary of my year LEVY Paul; LEWIS Katie (née leaving at next year’s reunion and also the Weeks); LITTLE Jeanne (née 175th anniversary of the school in 2017 – Darling); LANGRIDGE Harriet hope to see you there. (née Jones); MACE Wendy (née Happy memories: Anita Sampson (who was at Hutsby); MATTHEWS Simon and Lesley; MILLS Caroline (née Sibford from 1971~76) is pictured (top) at a 1980s London SOSA reunion held Bond); MUIR Anne; PHILLIPS on the TS Queen Mary and (right) during school days with Ashley Shirlin! Pat (née Williams); RICCI Eleri (née Williams); ROBINSON Peter; SAMPSON Anita (née African Vision Malawi Brown); SHELLEY Margaret The 2015 reunion also saw the (née Smart); SHIRLIN Ashley; return to Sibford School of Steve SMITH Sue (née White); SMITH Johnson (at Sibford 1971~76) who David Carlton; SPENCER Lori brought with him a display about (née Rollett); STEED Russell and African Vision Malawi, a charity Janet; STROFTON Erica (née Eden); THATCHER Josephine that was set up in 2005 by another (née Hindle); TITLEY Imogen; Sibford Old Scholar, Heather Palmer VEAZEY Rachael (née Davis); née Lewis (1972~78). VEYSEY Bryony; WARDLE Tim; The charity’s vision is to work WATSON John; WEATHERHEAD towards seeing a healthy, educated and self-sufficient community in Malawi. Ian and Christine; WEEKS Judith; WHITE Kevin; WHITE Robert; As Medical Supplies Manager, Steve is currently raising funds to supply two WILLIAMS Tom; WOODS Dean; clinics and a new maternity unit (opened by AVM in 2013). WRIGLEY Richard; WRIGLEY Steve (whose father Colin was at Sibford during the 1940s) is pictured above Pat. at the 2015 reunion chatting about the charity. For further information, (List collated by Mike Finch) visit: www.africanvision.org.uk.

24 / The Sibford Rocket REVIEW OF THE ANNUAL REUNION continued PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS BY EDD FROST

t seems like only yesterday take in order Ithat I made my last presidential to survive and speech. On that occasion I shared support my memories of my time at Sibford, own family. and was delighted that some of the During my staff who taught me were here to five years re-live those memories ... and then at Sibford I laugh at my misdemeanours and never once scrapes! understood So what do I talk about this Quakers: what year? Well, I’ve thought a lot they were; about this over the past few what they months. Two years ago, as well as stood for; recalling memories, I also shared and – most with you the fact that I had just importantly Outgoing SOSA President Edd Frost pictured at the reunion established my own business as to a THEN lunch with Steve Johnson, Anita Sampson, Amanda Brown and a funeral director in Banbury. blonde haired, incoming President, Ashley Shirlin. Having previously worked in the blue eyed boy, town for some years and then who took great pride in how he while at work, that I took a call left to take up a more challenging looked – how they dressed! that would once again bring me role in Birmingham, I decided that How could sitting quietly in a into direct contact with Quakers. Banbury, the area I was born and circle for set periods of time or It was from Rosemary Berrington grew up in, was where I should be gently discussing issues, rather than whose father, Norman Coxon, a offering my skills and services. arguing it out with a bit of violence Quaker, had died. She was staying It’s been a very fast two years thrown in, be relevant in today’s at his sheltered accommodation of learning ... something I never world? For some time after leaving in Banbury, it was snowing and thought I would have to do again Sibford I still couldn’t understand she wanted to make some after leaving school! Learning to Quakerism and thought I had funeral arrangements. As a SOSA market oneself; to promote a managed to escape their ways. committee member, I was aware of brand that is namely me; to get BUT I WAS WRONG! who Norman Coxon was, added out and introduce myself to a Having lost both my parents to the fact that he had lived in community in order to earn their within the space of four years my Adderbury (my home village) for trust and respect. This has not life changed dramatically. I felt that many years and was a well-known been easy and, indeed, proved my purpose was to be of support face in the local care home. very challenging. It was, however, to those who were bereaved. Any Until meeting with Rosemary, a make or break chance I had to of you who have experienced however, I didn’t realise quite how the loss of a long Norman had been associated loved one will with Sibford School. It was such know what a privilege to be overseeing the a devastating arrangements and a wonderful first and unbearable experience of a Quaker funeral. time it can be. “No formalities, no structure”, So, after exclaimed Peter Whittle, as we some years all met outside the crematorium of trying, chapel. “We must all just amble I managed in as we enter.” I rather nervously to secure a tried to picture my four pall position within bearers trying to ‘amble’ whilst the funeral bearing Norman’s coffin! I should, industry. of course, have realised that Peter meant those in attendance, who Edd is pictured chatting with 2011/12 SOSA President Erica It was in should be following on behind Strofton January 2010,

The Sibford Rocket / 25 AGM 2015 PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS continued without any kind of order and ex-member of staff and school as Mr or Mrs, it’s always the first certainly not processing. committee, passed away in March name”. I politely listened, letting Incidentally it was during 2014 at the ripe old age of 107, her have her say, and then quietly Norman’s short committal service and it was my privilege to conduct mentioned that all afternoon she that the largest and loudest her funeral. A pint-sized Quaker, had addressed me as Mr Frost ... military aircraft flew over the who could put many a man in their where was the difference? Never crematorium chapel which brought place (even Mike Finch on quite a the less, I was on the telephone to about much conversation due to few occasions I gather), Margaret’s Judith Weeks the next day telling Norman’s many hours of peace life was lived to the full and her the story. I now know why protesting outside the gates of certainly, up to her 99th year, she Michael Goodwin will greet anyone Croughton Air Base with other led a very active and eventful life, by their full name, something I now local Friends over many years! yet still at her core giving off that try to do also, albeit sometimes Later in the day we attended calming and quiet persona. slightly tongue in cheek! Norman’s Memorial Meeting, held When Judith Weeks’ son, David, These happenings are just but at the school in the Oliver Studio. sadly died in his 50’s, it was his a few of the goings on in the life This was my first experience wish to be brought back to Sibford of a funeral director with Quaker of a Meeting, apart from school where he is now buried. On connections. Some amusing and ones, and to see and hear Friends his funeral day school minibuses some lovely moments to cherish and family stand up and talk ferried what seemed like hundreds forever and the very best funeral about Norman, some deep, some of inner city London faces into the teas ever! A huge enquiry will take amusing, but all relevant, was quite sleepy Oxfordshire countryside for place if you don’t have that fourth novel. what was a really unique Memorial slice of cake as you leave the Norman Coxon’s funeral was Meeting. Meeting! the best introduction to Quaker Through the overseeing of My five years at Sibford were funerals that anyone would ever David’s funeral, I got to know exceedingly happy and I had the wish to have. And, to this day, at Judith very well and she soon best time. And, although I never the beginning of every Quaker became my ‘Quaker Guru’! If I got the Quakers at the time, I Memorial Meeting when a burial ever have questions on how to really do feel that their ethos and is being carried out, I will always deal with Quaker issues or ways, I teachings did in fact impact on my mention to the families, in a light will always ring Judith, who will tell life more than I ever imagined and hearted manner, that there must me what’s what. Something I am I will be forever grateful to Sibford be no processing ... just an ambling! very thankful for. for the life skills taught and the Following Norman’s funeral I Soon after David’s funeral I friends I made. seemed to be the contact for carried out the funeral of a Quaker The above is an abridged version of the other Quaker funerals that needed lady who had died in a local speech given by Edd Frost at the 2015 Presidential Dinner. arranging and quite soon I got to nursing home. Her burial took know many of the local Friends place at Jordan’s Meeting and in the area who would always be it was here that I encountered in attendance. I grew to enjoy my first ‘Militant Quaker’, the the quiet and personal manner of equivalent of any waspy church Memorial Meetings, and am always warden that I had ever met over impressed with how an Elder the years! In my profession, I explains how the Meeting runs consider it the norm and the to non-Quakers in attendance, right thing to always refer to the stressing that anyone is welcome deceased and any person I don’t to stand up and say a few words. know, especially when older than I consider the Quakers to be the me, as Mr or Mrs. It was after most user-friendly faith group the burial that this little lady for putting people new to the ushered me over to one side and experience at their ease. said: “Mr Frost, a word of advice. Margaret Le Mare, another When dealing with Quakers, well-known local Quaker and we never refer to each other

26 / The Sibford Rocket PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS continued Meet the new president Introducing Ashley Shirlin, SOSA president 2015 ~ 2017 was born in Stockton-on-Tees in although I have failed miserably I1958 but left when I was three on occasion to live up to the months old. The first 11 years of motto of Truth, Honour, my life were somewhat nomadic. Freedom and Courtesy, My father was a civil engineer and these are principles that I hold we spent time in Sierra Leone, dear. Ghana and Uganda interspersed After Sibford I studied A Levels with periods in Deddington, Shirley at Banbury Technical College and and Banbury. then read for my degree in My mother was born in Banbury Economics and Econometrics and both her parents were mayors at the University of York. Upon of the town so we tended to graduation I ended up moving to gravitate to Oxfordshire. Essex, which I had never visited By the time I was 10 my parents before, in order to take up a job had split up with my father moving in computing, of which I had no to Malaysia. This was a difficult time knowledge! I remained in Essex and I had the choice of attending for nearly 30 years and have spent the, now defunct, Quaker school even longer in IT. For 20 years I of Wennington in Yorkshire, worked for a variety of companies where my older brother had been in the software/insurance industry schooled, or Sibford. I wasn’t keen working in The City, France, Ashley in 2014 in Singapore. Inset at on being a year younger than my Germany, Holland, Belgium, a London SOSA reunion in the 80s. classmates so I spent my last year Switzerland and the USA. For 10 my case there’s more! I mentioned of junior school living in a Banbury years I ran my own computer that my father went to Malaysia in Childrens’ Home. company, working mainly the 1960’s never to return. During The first five years of relative throughout England, and for the the latter part of my time at stability in my life began in last five years have worked for Sibford, and for a couple of years 1969 when I arrived at Sibford. myself. afterwards, I travelled to Malaysia Fortunately I was reasonably bright In my 30’s and 40’s I was involved in the summer holidays to meet his and quite sporty so my life at with SOSA and served as General new family. My father had become school was easier than for many of Secretary, a post I have now a Muslim and had taken a second my classmates. Without doubt my returned to. I arranged several wife ... much to the annoyance five years at Sibford had a lifelong reunions for my generation in of my C of E mother. Tragically effect on me. My oldest friends London and at the school. At I then lost touch but some 15 are people who I met there and its peak we managed to get 180 years ago I was contacted by one people to attend! of my Malaysian half-brothers. I’ve It was at my first job that I met visited Borneo most years since my wife and we married when I then to see my dear step mother, was 23. Sadly things went awry and my two step brothers, my four we divorced after 28 years. I have half-brothers and my half-sister two brilliant children, who have and their families. I also have a vast returned to Essex after attending number of nephews and nieces! their respective universities in York Seven years ago my life took and Roehampton. James is now a another change and I now lead teacher but, more importantly, is a quiet life in Dorset with my a fellow Leeds United supporter. partner, Amanda Brown (née Maria is beginning to make her way Cade), a lady who I originally met in life but, also more importantly, is at Sibford. I still undertake some IT a fellow cat lover! work. I watch Leeds United when I This would usually be the end of can and I’ve become involved with Ashley competing in the a person’s family background but in SOSA again. Oxfordshire 1500m Trials The Sibford Rocket / 27 Grace Mary Allen Teacher at Sibford 1942 ~ 45 Died May 17th 2015 aged 93 race Allen’s first teaching post Gwas at Sibford School during Lives Remembered the last three years of the Second World War. numerous uncles and cousins. She kept up her links with some Despite wartime hardships, former pupils and colleagues for Raymond’s school days were happy the rest of her life. She went on to ones and in later life he would teach briefly in Halesowen before triumphantly regale with tales of spending a naughty school boy – one who the rest of would climb the sky-high brick her career chimney of the laundry room at teaching the old Manor House (former music at school buildings) to sit atop and Manchester watch Coventry burn during the Teacher Blitz, and one who would enjoy Training visiting the nearby crash sites of College. fallen aircraft, looking for shrapnel In 1979, and deadly wartime souvenirs. along with her dear friend Jean Education continued first at Morley who had also been a Bootham School in York and teacher at Sibford, she moved subsequently at the Royal Academy up to Scotland to live near her of Music where he studied the brother and his family. Jean clarinet under the renowned predeceased her in 1996. clarinettist, Jack Brymer. Obliged publishing company, Presshouse Grace often talked of Sibford to carry out National Service Publications Ltd. It was the and the special memories she held in Belfast for two years, work beginning of a 32-year venture from her time there. A service of soon followed in the orchestra at until retirement, producing five celebration, including a time of The Royal Shakespeare Theatre, leading magazines for education Quaker silence, was held in Perth Stratford-upon-Avon and on establishments, from pre-school on 30th May 2015 to celebrate tour with the Carl Rosa Opera to university in addition to Grace’s life. Company. However, Raymond commercial printing and publishing Raymond Quinton Bond decided to abandon music as a work. at Sibford 1940 ~ 1945 career, although it did remain a key Though running a business was Died 10th December 2014 element throughout his life. demanding on time, Raymond was Written by Caroline Mills Raymond joined the National not devoid of play. Life outside orn in High Wycombe during Magazine Company in 1957, work involved renovating a semi- Bthe summer of 1932 Raymond working initially on ‘She’ magazine derelict 16th century farmhouse – was the youngest of four children before moving to Hultons to ongoing from 1969 until his death; to his parents, a concert hall devise marketing campaigns for obtaining his private pilot’s licence; singer and Master Carpenter. Eagle and Girl comics and latterly performing and playing both the Both parental professions became various trade publications and clarinet and piano whenever instrumental in Raymond’s creative national exhibitions for Odhams possible; photography and enjoying life. and Trade & Technical Press. his vegetable garden and orchard. Raymond was sent to Sibford Having wooed his future wife His greatest passion, however, as an evacuee from Birmingham. Ann with his rare 1932 Aston was woodwork, something that Living initially with a family in Martin Le Mans open-top sports he developed while at Sibford. He Burdrop, he began his time at the car, the couple were married in liked nothing better than to be in school in 1940. His mother and 1958 (the car needing to be sold his workshop, creating something his grandfather were pupils at the to pay for the wedding!). By 1967 beautiful and practical for friends school before him, as were his they had also become business and family. sister and brother. So too were partners as they set up their own Raymond’s associations with

28 / The Sibford Rocket Sibford did not end with schoolboy crafted the engagement ring which tales. Sibford School remained Anne still wears today. significant throughout his life. At My memories of Chris at Sibford the outbreak of war, his father had are of a talented, good looking, nice made the black out curtains for guy, annoyingly good runner – he the Hill Building; Raymond was a did the London Marathon in 1982 part of The Quinton Band, a large – good footballer, someone who family gathering of musicians that enjoyed music and crafts, a calm would play at Sibford Old Scholar Chris and Anne Evans gentle prefect, indeed an all-round reunions during the 1940’s and super person who was fun to be Chris Evans 50’s. No less, it was even a Sibford with. Having met again recently at Sibford 1958 ~ 1963 Old Scholars’ reunion that he after many years I am so sorry Died 17th February 2015 aged 68 brought Ann to on one of their Chris is gone. We shall all miss him, Written by Paul Frampton first dates! Indeed, Raymond’s love especially his adored family but Old Scholars who knew Chris for Sibford and the surrounding hope Anne will keep in touch with would have also known his wife area is the very reason that the Sibford and Old Scholars – I am Anne (née Tucker), whose father couple bought their beloved home sure she will. Leslie was Bursar at Sibford for in Whichford in 1969 and chose to Philip Gray many years. settle in the area. at Sibford 1969 ~ 1975 Chris and Anne met at Sibford, In later years, Raymond’s Died 21 July 2015 age 57 married in 1969 and had two connections to the school were ews has reached us of the sons, Stephen and Simon, and five numerous, including: as a parent; death of Old Scholar Philip grandchildren. Chris died suddenly N through business having produced Gray. Born on 28 May 1958, Philip at their lovely home near Shipston. and printed the school magazine was a pupil at Sibford School A terrible loss just as increasing and prospectus and the Sibford from 1969 ~ 1975. An academic retirement beckoned with new Old Scholars’ magazine during student, he left Sibford to take up contributions to make including the 80s and 90s; as ‘employer’ to an apprenticeship at J.E. Hanger & help with the restoration of the work experience students from Co, the first limb fitting company Great Western Heritage Railway the school; through countless to become established in the UK. and more time to enjoy the family. SOSA and school functions and The apprenticeship was for five Chris and Anne were a great team, through his carpentry. Even today, years but Philip, together with always keen to make a difference, Raymond’s woodwork can still another apprentice, proved such to be creative and to improvise. be seen around the school, in a keen student that he was fast Serious achievers! the shape of beautifully carved After Sibford, Chris studied at noticeboards and signs. Oxford Art College and Leicester Indeed Raymond’s final public Polytechnic and was one of the outing, on the 11th November bright young industrial designers to 2014, was to Sibford, to the burst out of the 1960’s … keen to dedication and opening of the improve the many products people school’s new Peace Garden to used around the home. He worked mark the centenary of the First for Mettoy, Ogle, Prestige and World War. It therefore seemed Hasbro to name but a few. fitting that the Peace Garden As a professional, Chris moved should become Raymond’s final from industry into University resting place. teaching first at Loughborough, Raymond was considered a then Bournemouth, Luton, the generous, loving and gentle man by Open University and finally all he met (many have commented Aston. His approach was slightly that he was a true gentleman) and unconventional, full of enthusiasm, one who Lived Adventurously. He challenge and inspiration. But he is survived by his wife, Ann, three was also incredibly practical and children and nine grandchildren, loved precious metals, working three of whom are current pupils with the Guild of Cotswold Philip Gray, pictured shortly before at Sibford. Craftsmen. He designed and joining Sibford School in 1969

The Sibford Rocket / 29 tracked jumping from the third year straight to the fifth year. Having passed out from Hangers, Philip continued to work for the company for a number of years before moving to the Museum of London where one of his jobs included the restoration of the Lord Mayor of London’s State Coach. A keen traveller, Philip gave up work in later years to look after his foster aunt in Roehampton. He suffered a number of health problems including diabetes and asthma and died from pneumonia on 21 July 2015. He is survived by his brother, Roland, and a daughter. SOSA president Ashley Shirlin adds: “Phil was a classmate of mine for five years at Sibford. In all years Philip Morris pictured in 2013 after finding a lump of ice embedded in his there are a few people who are back garden. The skyfall was thought to have come from an over flying plane. liked by all; Phil was one of these and died in Warwick hospital some of cancer at the John Radcliffe people. I lost touch with Phil after years ago. Hospital in Oxford. Despite this we left school but discovered him Philip attended Tindal Street set-back, however, Philip continued again in the 1990’s when I worked Primary School before going to to be active, belonging to Stratford near to him at the Museum of Sibford where, in his final year, he Art Society, Amnesty and a local London. For a brief period of time was Head Boy. After Sibford he photographic society. He had a we’d meet up for the odd beer and went to Birmingham’s renowned small but lovely garden full of many Phil would recount his stories of Art School to train as a silver plants. He knew the names of most bungee jumping all over the world. smith. He was also, as many will of them and where they came Phil came to a couple of London be aware, a more than competent from. He also had an allotment by reunions much to the delight of wood carver … he carved a the Stratford Canal where he grew all who attended. I was privileged replacement statuette of the Nellie vegetables and kept himself and the to attend his funeral and to meet Millard memorial when the original, local Meeting well supplied. He his brother Roland. Tragically I carved by his great mentor Roland also continued his wood carving must have passed him on many Herbert, went missing. in the cellar of his house which he occasions in Roehampton as I Philip registered as a called his ‘studio’. visited there regularly when my conscientious objector and went Philip was a great supporter of daughter was at the University. RIP to Russia and Europe to do SOSA and became its President Phil, you were one of the best” voluntary work in schools. He later between 1996 and1997 ... only J Philip Morris qualified as a teacher of crafts in missing one reunion during this at Sibford 1939 ~ 1944 secondary schools in the South of time. He became a close friend of Died 23rd April 2015 age 87 England. He married Rosamund Jeanne Little, also an Old Scholar, Written by Jeanne Little (née Flinn, also an Old Scholar, who and they did a lot of travelling Darling) at Sibford 1941 ~ 1945 came from a well-established together to South Africa, Tanzania hilip was born on 28th August Sibford village family and they and Malawi, where his son Stephen P1927 in Moseley, Birmingham of had two sons, Christopher and lives. Venice was also visited on Quaker parents. He had one sister, Stephen. Philip lived in Hemel their way home. also a Sibford Old Scholar called Hempstead, Welwyn Garden City Philip was an honest, truthful, ‘Pegeen’ (a shortened name for and Hatfield before retiring to and high principled person. Apart Margaret) She was a great traveller Stratford-upon-Avon where he from his two sons he leaves behind and spoke several languages. was Clerk of Stratford Meeting for him four grandaughters. He will After looking after her parents over 20 years. be sadly missed, but following his at Seaford she came to live with Unfortunately, in the early part Quaker beliefs he did live his life Philip. Sadly she became unwell of this century, Rosamund died adventurously.

30 / The Sibford Rocket Margaret Elizabeth Rhodes (née completed her training in March Elder/Overseer, latterly becoming Richards) 1961 and received a certificate as Convenor of Elders and Overseers, at Sibford 1950 ~ 1955 a State Registered Nurse (S.R.N.) a member of the Area Meeting Died 9th August 2015 age 76 She became a Staff Nurse and also Overseers Support Group, Sylvia Williams (née Webster) at obtained a Midwifery Qualification. Assistant Clerk and Clerk of Sibford 1948 ~ 1955 writes: She then went to work in Meeting. She was also a member argaret was born in Switzerland, returning home in of the Management Committee of MBournville, Birmingham on May 1962 to receive the Queen Oaktree House, which provides 21st April 1939 to Howard and Elizabeth School of Nursing Prize sheltered housing predominantly Vera Richards. Maggy, as she was at Birmingham University. This for Friends. known to all her school friends, award is given to the nurse who Over the years Maggy and I have was at Sibford from September makes the greatest contribution as kept in touch with a number of 1950 until July 1955. She had an a 4th year nurse. school friends who live in different older brother, John, who also went On 1st December 1964 Maggy parts of the country. Several Old to Sibford (1947 ~ 1953). Maggy became the first Ward Sister in Scholars who were in the same and her brother were brought up the Ophthalmic Ward at Selly Oak year as us at Sibford have met as Quakers following the religion Hospital. She had initially set up annually for many years, sometimes of their mother. this ward and this is where she visiting the school, going to the Maggy and I first became met her future husband, Peter theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon, or friends in 1950. We travelled Rhodes. They married at Bournville visiting each other’s houses. We all together from Meeting House felt that we had got to know and Snow Hill Station on 15 September understand each other because we in Birmingham to 1967 and had were full-time boarders at school Banbury, used to a good, happy and supported each other when meet up in the marriage with our parents were not there to give holidays and stayed three lovely sons, advice. at each other’s Edward, Nick Maggy loved to paint and was houses on many and Stephen. very interested and knowledgeable occasions. Maggy, Their sons are about the history of art. We with her happy, all married and regularly visited art exhibitions friendly personality Margaret and together and I have a painting and ability to talk Peter were that she did for me of The Manor to all ages, was a blessed with five House at Sibford Ferris. When my particular favourite grandchildren, the first child, Stacey Elizabeth, was of my parents, especially my eldest now 11 and the youngest 3. born in 1964, Maggy became her mother. When Edward started Godmother and last October At school, apart from the usual school, Maggy and three friends she and Peter came to Stacey’s academic subjects, Maggy enjoyed established a pre-school nursery in wedding. sport, particularly hockey, and was Blackwell in Worcestershire, which Maggy died peacefully at home, also very good at art. She won ran successfully for many years. well looked after by Peter. Her prizes at the Banbury Arts and After a 10-year break from funeral service at Redditch was Crafts Festival and gained Royal nursing, when her sons were all held in the form of a Quaker Life Saving Awards. She was also at school, Maggy returned to Meeting. In the reading it was said House Captain for Nansen. nursing. Initially this was with that Margaret lived by the words After we left school, we went consultants in private practice, at on the school crest ‘Truth and cycling together across Wales to Five Ways, Birmingham and then at Honour, Freedom and Courtesy.’ Ireland, staying in youth hostels. We a private hospital in Droitwich in also went to Germany, travelling by Worcestershire. Her work mainly We have also received notification bicycle across Belgium and Holland concerned patients with cancer. of the deaths of: to Hamburg and then down to Maggy continued to be an Samantha Ley Stuttgart and Heidelberg. active Quaker, initially attending at Sibford 1995 ~ 1999 In January 1958 Maggy enrolled Bournville Meeting and later Peter Smart as a trainee nurse at the General transferring to Barnt Green in at Sibford 1951 ~ 1956 Hospital in Birmingham. She Worcestershire. She was an John Edward Smith at Sibford 1960 ~ 1966

The Sibford Rocket / 31 SOSASIBFORD OLD SCHOLARS’ ASSOCIATION

SIBFORD OLD SCHOLARS’ ASSOCIATION Officers and Committee from 01/08/2015

Ashley Shirlin Edd Frost Mark Bennett Nikki Knott Harriet Langridge Amanda Brown PRESIDENT VICE PRESIDENT RETIRING PRESIDENT Ashley Shirlin Position Vacant Edd Frost GENERAL SECRETARY Ashley Shirlin Tel: 07545 704620 Email: [email protected] TREASURER Mark Bennett REUNION SECRETARY Position Vacant COMMITTEE MEMBERS Nikki Knott, Harriet Langridge, Amanda Brown SCHOOL COMMITTEE REPRESENTATIVES Richard Hughes (January 2014 until December 2017) Margaret Shelley (January 2012 until December 2019) Please note that if you wish to contact any of the above Committee Members please do so by addressing your enquiry through the General Secretary – Ashley Shirlin (details as above) who will forward on your emails/correspondence etc. Ashley is also the person to contact for general enquiries and to submit information for inclusion on the website. SOSA MEMBERSHIP & ALUMNI CO-ORDINATOR Wendy Finch Email: [email protected] SOSA HONORARY ADVISER Michael Finch (Non committee post)

SCHOOL MEMBERS Michael Goodwin (Head) Tel: 01295 781200 Email: [email protected]

Peter Robinson (Business Manager) Tel: 01295 781210 Email: [email protected]

Ali Bromhall (Community Development Officer) Tel: 01295 781216 Email: [email protected] Ali is also the person to contact if you wish to submit information for inclusion in the SOSA magazine – The Sibford Rocket. For further information about Sibford Old Scholars’ Association visit our website: www.sibfordoldscholars.com For further information about Sibford School visit: www.sibfordschool.co.uk

32 / The Sibford Rocket