LIFELENT 2020

Success on the court

An unforgettable Hairspray performance Annual Junior Literary Festival Educational partnership with the Mobius Foundation Whitgift Minster Choristers live on BBC One Midnight Mass 1st XV crowned National Hockey Champions Global Citizenship launch for Junior Years and more inside… Hairspray The West End arrives in South !

In December 2019, the West End came to with a wonderful performance of Hairspray staged in Big School. Backcombed beehives, styled kisscurls and glittering costume all made this three night sell-out performance a huge hit.

With period glitz, nostalgic glamour and toe-tapping numbers, the cast, production team and band, transported the audience back to 1960s downtown Baltimore. The musical (a record-setter which won the 2003 Olivier and Tony Awards for Best Musical for Marc Shaiman) follows teenager Tracy Turnblad’s dream of hitting the big time dancing on The Corny Collins Show amidst a backdrop of racial segregation and elitism. When Tracy wins a role on the show, she becomes a celebrity overnight, leading to social change as Tracy campaigns for the show’s integration.

A big thank you to all those who pulled this production together, particularly Mr Michael and Mrs Carter who directed the performance, and congratulations to the whole cast, including students from Old Palace of and WAVPA, Whitgift’s Saturday Performing Arts School.

2 WHITGIFT LIFE performing arts Hairspray The West End arrives in South Croydon!

‘With period glitz, nostalgic glamour and toe-tapping numbers Hairspray was a huge hit’

WHITGIFT LIFE 3 ‘Celebrating the power news of poetry to bring National Poetry Day people together’

To celebrate National Poetry Day He performed one of his poems on Thursday 3 October, poetic ‘Getting Older’ from his new rapper and storytelling songwriter, book Reasons to Write Rhymes in Rob Bradley was invited to Whitgift an Upper School assembly. The to inspire students about poetry, poem struck a chord with young reading and writing books, helping and old alike. The students then them to develop their skills and challenged him to freestyle rap enthusiasm. using a random selection of words chosen by them and they were Rob has spent his whole life writing impressed by his clever word-play rhymes and performing around and witty rhyming techniques. the world, from basement clubs in New York to festivals throughout Rob also held creative writing Europe, and collaborating sessions for First Formers and with international artists and Second Formers, encouraging songwriters along the way. students to create poems using rhyme. They then got to perform their work.

National Poetry Day created a hive of activity around the School, celebrating the power of poetry to bring people together and to explore how it can be used in reading, writing and performing. Whitgift would like to thank Rob for making his visit such a memorable event.

Dorian Fisher Memorial Prize

In September 2019, Upper Sixth Former Max Ronte was awarded one of three runner-up prizes for the 2019 essay competition ‘The Dorian Fisher Memorial Prize’, organised by the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA). Students studying International Baccalaureate, A Level or equivalent were eligible to apply for this competition. The questions focused on three highly topical areas; free trade, the challenges of an ageing population and the long-standing principle of no such thing as a free lunch. Max’s essay was one ‘A fine and of 366 entries submitted to the IEA, who passed on their thoughtful congratulations on a “fine and thoughtful piece of work, with piece of work, real originality.” Our congratulations also go to Max with real for recieving an offer from Oxford in January 2020, to read originality’ Politics, Philosophy & Economics.

4 WHITGIFT LIFE news Oxbridge offers confirmed for 14 students

Whitgift is delighted to announce that 14 Whitgiftians have received Oxbridge offers. They will be reading subjects such as History, Law, Politics Philosophy & Economics, Medicine, Music and Natural Sciences.

Headmaster, Mr Chris Ramsey commented “We are immensely proud of the students and their achievements. They have put in an incredible amount of hard work in preparation for the pre-tests and interviews, very strongly supported by their families and the staff here.”

A special thank you to Ms Emma Mitchell, who as Head IB and A Level exam success of Higher Education especially supported the students in their At the end of last term Whitgift We are also delighted to have applications. Mr Adam Alcock was pleased to be presented received recognition from The takes over from Ms Mitchell with two awards for our Sunday Times Parent Power, this year, as she moves to success in the International not only as a top performing IB become the School’s Director of Baccalaureate 2018/19. These school, but also being positioned International Baccalaureate. awards, presented by IB league as ’s best performing table consultants, positioned boys’ independent school We wish all the Upper Sixth Whitgift as number one boys’ according to Sixth Form results. Formers the best of luck as school for IB, number 6 overall they continue to work towards in the UK and number 15 in the securing their University Global Top 50 IB Schools. The placements and follow their Headmaster, some staff and career aspirations. students from the 2019 and present day cohorts attended to receive the awards.

Whitgift cadets commemorate Trafalgar Night

In October 2019, senior cadets contingent standard and the good decisions, won him the who aspires to be a leader. The from the Combined Cadet Force Royal Navy’s White Ensign and battle and cemented his place as night ended with a toast to the (CCF) and Corps of Drums Union Jack. Between courses, an inspirational figure not just ‘Immortal Memory’, before a gathered to commemorate the cadets read dispatches which to the Royal Navy but to anyone rousing set of sea shanties. 214th anniversary of the Battle told the dramatic story of of Trafalgar with a three-course the lead-up to the battle and black tie dinner in the Old Library. Nelson’s mortal injury sustained during the firefight. Trafalgar Night, which is commemorated around the After the loyal toast (made world, celebrates Admiral Lord seated in accordance with Nelson’s victory at the Battle of naval tradition), Lieutenant Trafalgar. After a reception in Bregman, the commanding the Raeburn Library, Sixth Form officer of the CCF’s Royal Navy cadets, alongside Whitgift’s section, described how Nelson’s partner school Thomas More, innovative tactics and powerful joined officers in an Old Library leadership, which included festooned with signal flags, the trusting his captains to make

WHITGIFT LIFE 5 newsnews

The Nineteenth Symposium

In September 2019, Whitgift Since the start of the ideas and thoughts towards hosted the annual Symposium Michaelmas Term, Whitgift different areas of history I ‘The Symposium for Upper Sixth Formers and students worked with a partner would not have sought out students from North London student from NLCS, identifying independently myself.” is designed Collegiate School (NLCS). a topic to discuss from a range to support The Symposium, which is in of disciplines such as science, At the event, students gave its 19th year, is designed to medicine, history, economics, their presentations in pairs independent support independent learning politics and engineering, in and then participated in open by providing students with which they located cutting discussions with a wider learning’ opportunities to conduct and edge research before preparing group. The Symposium is a collaborate in research and learn a presentation on it for the great opportunity to enhance beyond the curriculum. It aims to Symposium. Student, Hamish collaboration skills in preparation promote scholarship by offering McDougall commented, “I really for both university and the students the ability to present, enjoyed the Symposium as it workplace. defend and evaluate ideas. allowed me to explore different

Careers Convention

The annual Whitgift Careers of the future including Artificial said, “There was a good amount the Convention very helpful and Convention on the evening of Intelligence, Cyber Security and of interest, the boys asked lots interesting. It helped to narrow 12 November was a lively event Global Sport Media. of questions which is really down my final decision on with over seventy advisers, Old positive.” A Lower Sixth Form what I might choose to study at Whitgiftians, parents and friends The advisers commented on student commented, “I found university level.” of Whitgift, offering advice on the high level of interest and a wide range of career sectors enthusiasm shown by the to students in the Upper School students. Jason Bird, Commercial and their parents. Several Solicitor at Beale and Company CAREERS CONVENTION 2019 advisers also gave presentations on the work involved in their job roles and what skills and ‘I found the qualifications were required to Convention build a successful career. As well as traditional careers in Law, very helpful Medicine and Finance, we also had representatives from careers and interesting’

6 WHITGIFT LIFE sport Hockey

It’s been an exciting season for at claiming their first ever place Hockey at Whitgift. in a National Final, followed by a hard-fought game in the finals In Michaelmas Term 2019, the against Dean Close resulting in 1st XI drew with Nottingham the National Championship win. University and then went on to Unfortunately, the U16s could win four back to back matches in not repeat their National wining the England Hockey U18 Tier 1 exploits of last year, despite Competition. This included two playing some brilliant Hockey 12:0 wins against Ipswich and throughout the tournament. The Langley Park and 7:0 win against team finished joint third which is 6:1 in the final. The U14s Indoor Jack Waller, Rhys Smith and Cranleigh. The U16s ended an amazing achievement for all team were not to be left behind Luke Taylor – with the full Great the Michaelmas Term in style involved. and won the U14 Divisional Britain side. Also, OWs Max with a great win against Simon Tournament to kick start their Lowrey, Max Denniff, Adam Langton in the U16 Tier 1 Cup The U16s and U18s were put Indoor Hockey careers! Buckle and Josh Gravestock with Competition alongside several through their paces during the the England U21s. other matches. Whitgift Festival, where the On the international front we School hosted Millfield School, congratulate, Luke Holland, Finally, a special mention The Indoor Hockey season has Oakham College and Ipswich Luca Gomez and Josh Tikare to OW Zach Wallace who has been a very busy but enjoyable School in a fiercely competitive on selection for England U16s been nominated by the World season. At the recent National but thoroughly enjoyable Indoor and Barney Bithell, Matt Blood, Hockey Governing body (FIH) Finals, hosted by Whitgift, the Tournament. This tournament Dylan Holland, Finn Hurst and for the award of ‘World Best 1st XI were crowned National prepared both teams well as they Ollie Shelton for their continued Young Rising Star’. This is an Champions for the second year both went through to the South involvement with England U18s. incredible achievement and running. The semi-final saw them Divisional tournaments unbeaten, Whitgift hopes to see more of we wish him all the best with brush off a stern Reed’s attempt with the U18s beating Reed’s our current OWs Zach Wallace, his Hockey career.

WHITGIFT LIFE 7 news #HelloYellow in support of Young Minds

In October 2019, Whitgift held up in the Lower School foyer, Wellbeing Tree’ in the Raeburn off with a hugely successful cake several on-site activities helping which had both pupils and staff Library and were encouraged to sale courtesy of the First and to raise money for the UK’s queuing to take part during write their messages of support Lower First Forms. leading charity fighting for break and lunch, props in hand, and tips for good mental health. children and young peoples’ ready to have their photo To support the ongoing wellbeing mental health, Young Minds. taken. Many staff supported Other activities that took place of all staff and pupils, Whitgift this campaign by donning their included a thought-provoking now has 31 Mental Health First There was an extra buzz in favourite yellow-hued attire for round table discussion on mental Aiders who can be identified by the atmosphere all around the the day too. health involving students in all their yellow lanyards and School through the #HelloYellow year groups, followed by a fun are happy to be approached campaign activities, including Students and staff also took the filled staff vs pupil basketball at any time for an informal or a fun-filled photo booth set opportunity to visit the ‘Whitgift match. Lunch break was topped formal chat.

‘Whitgift now has 31 Mental Health First Aiders’

8 WHITGIFT LIFE news

Whitgift’s First Business Breakfast – Focus on Arts and Media

In early February, a group of Arts learn more about the intricacies and Media professionals joined of the industry from the people a selection of students from the at our table. I am keen to get Middle Years and Sixth Form to into a career in finance and so enjoy a networking breakfast. understanding behind the scenes of the Arts and Media industry, A total of 9 tables of students and how finance plays such an were joined by staff and over important role, was very helpful.’ 20 guests with roles such as Journalists, TV Producers, Art The morning of discussion and Directors, Agents and Editors networking was closed by Old from several high profile media Whitgiftian Ralph Lee, Director of operations such as Virgin Content for BBC Studios. Ralph Media, Universal Pictures and reflected on his time at Whitgift the BBC, as well as innovative and spoke passionately about why independent companies. the arts and media industry was so significant globally, employing Students were able to learn many people behind the scenes more about the pathways that in professions such as law and these successful individuals had accounting. He emphasised that followed, their particular roles there is a very strong demand for and the organisations they work British drama and productions for, and in several cases, have from the rest of the world. founded. Finally, he emphasised that Students found the event students should look to very useful and informative. find careers that they were Fifth Former Horatio al-Saadi, passionate about, and that by commented, “This breakfast doing that, like him, he would was a wonderful opportunity expect they would never feel like to gain contacts with some top they were actually ‘working’. executives, such as Ralph Lee. I know that some also found it a Please send any ideas for great way to secure some future sectors we could focus on, work experience for the summer. It or kindly notify f.hewson@ was a very good idea and a positive whitgift.co.uk if you would be experience for all the boys.” available to speak to students at future events. Lower Sixth Former Ryan Ho added, “It was very insightful to

WHITGIFT LIFE 9 news PRISM Seminars – Academic Enrichment

This term has seen the widest Richard Harvey’s culturally we look forward to hearing from being able to discuss their ever variety of speakers as part engaging exploration of artificial Professor A.C. Grayling, Master ideas with different pupils, who of the Academic Enrichment intelligence and its future. and Founder of NCH, when he come with their own unique programme, as well as four visits to speak on ‘The Good Life’. perspectives. We look forward excellent PRISM seminars on Whitgift is fortunate to have also to more exciting and horizon- ‘Space’ and ‘Enlightenment’ received a visit from Dr David We also welcomed students from broadening speakers over the from pupils and staff. Highlights Mitchell, Senior Lecturer in the this term, course of the academic year. have included Professor Meric Faculty of Philosophy at New who have keenly participated in Srokosz’s insightful and data- College of the Humanities (NCH), the Academic Enrichment lecture driven lecture on the impact of who spoke on the virtues behind series for the first time. Whitgift climate change on our oceans, studying the Humanities, and students have benefitted from ex-Olympian Derek Redmond’s inspirational talk on ‘Dealing with Adversity’, and Professor

10 WHITGIFT LIFE performing arts

Three Schools’ Concert raises the roof at

Two spectacular concerts held ordinated by music directors and the town has resulted in one in October 2019 marked the staff from the three schools and ‘It was a of the largest bursary support opening of the newly refurbished featured two debut repertoires schemes in the UK with £5 Fairfield Halls in Croydon. involving two famous composers fantastic way million granted each year to that were performed for the very students who attend its three In the morning 1,350 children first time. to celebrate schools. attended from more than 30 local both the primary schools with performances The opening fanfare was Martin Corney, Chief Executive by students from Whitgift, Trinity composed as part of a reopening of the John , and Old Palace of John Whitgift competition between the said, “This generation of musical Schools, and featuring classical three schools, adjudicated by of this fine talent should be exceptionally pieces such as Superman by John operatic and choral composer, proud of their performances Williams, Pink Panther by Henry Russell Hepplewhite, and won venue, and in the wonderfully refurbished Mancini and a finale by Whitgift by Whitgift student, William Fairfield Halls. It was a fantastic School’s Corps of Drums. Brotherhood. The closing the legacy of way to celebrate both the piece, Te Deum, was composed reopening of this fine venue, In the evening, all three John especially for the concert by our Founder, and the legacy of our Founder, Whitgift Foundation Schools, award winning composer, Archbishop Archbishop John Whitgift.” more than 450 students and Jack Oades. Other exciting staff performed a spectacular performances included Grieg’s John Whitgift’ A huge thank you to all the programme of choral and Piano Concerto, 1st Movement music directors, departments orchestral music to an audience and the exquisite Rutter Gloria. and students from Whitgift, of more than 1,000 people. Trinity and Old Palace of John The event also celebrated the who put in so The evening’s concert charity’s Founder, Archbishop much hard work to make this programme was carefully co- John Whitgift, whose legacy to event such a success.

WHITGIFT LIFE 11 news

Student Hosts – a 5-year adventure

The Summer of 2019 saw create a nice environment.” Emily to say that going to Summer Whitgift Summer School goes further and tells us that Whitgift’s School has become a vital part celebrate its 5th anniversary. “The bond between everyone of my summer, maybe even the Since Summer School’s inception, is like a family.” Student Hosts, Student Hosts highlight of it!.” seven Whitgift and Old Palace teachers, activity leaders and demonstrate of John Whitgift students (Mya house parents all combine to A big thank you to all our Singh, Daniel Munks, Emily create a ‘home from home’ Global Student Hosts! If you would Clarke-Irons, Jonathan Ashworth, setting for the international like to become a Student Host, Aminah Patel, Omari Elliot and students, which is fantastic! Citizenship applications open on Friday 3 Emily Speed) have been Student April 2020, and can be completed Hosts. Their contribution has After five years of being a in action’ via the School website. been invaluable but what does it Student Host, Aminah underlines mean to be a Student Host? “how great it’s been to see how the Summer School has The main role of a Student developed over the years, and Host is to ensure that visiting how traditions have come to international students feel pass.” One of those traditions welcome and that English is actually transcends the summer spoken as much as possible. The months, as Jonathan tells us: experience is mutually beneficial “I have made friends with and provides our Student Hosts students from South Korea to the opportunity for personal Spain. Some of those friends I’m development. Daniel tells us still in contact with and others that “The Summer School has have actually come to visit me improved my own confidence in in London.” Similarly, Myah meeting new people as well as explains: “I have formed lifelong my cultural awareness.” relationships with people from all around the world.” It’s safe Many Student Hosts return year to say, our Student Hosts are on year due to the positively ‘Global Citizens’. unique atmosphere that dominates. Omari explains that, In 1972 ‘School’s out for “all of the activity leaders and Summer’ may have been a hit for everyone who helps organise it Alice Cooper, but Emily Speed is extremely friendly and help has a message for him: “It’s safe

12 WHITGIFT LIFE news India Educational Partnership

Whitgift announced an position as the top boys’ school educational partnership with the in the UK. Mobius Foundation in July 2019, a not for profit organisation Whitgift’s involvement, alongside working towards environmental a number of international sustainability. partners will hopefully make a genuine difference to education The partnership will launch in a growing economy and allow the World Environment School us to participate in a sustainable (WES) which will be the first educational model. Over time, school of its kind in India and as well as the school sharing our South Asia and will take a leading knowledge there are likely to be role in promoting and delivering benefits for the entire School environmental education with community through collaborating sustainability. with such a forward-looking ‘green’ school. Long-standing partnerships Our WES relationship will Whitgift’s partnership with with Japan, through an annual be managed by Mr David WES will focus on providing Whilst partnering with WES is exchange scheme, language Bates, Whitgift’s Director of academic support to the without doubt a significant step partner schools, and links International Education, who school, including establishing in Whitgift’s history, it is just through the boarding community also oversees the successful all aspects of the curriculum one of many existing ways that have been well established for Summer School. and syllabus development, the School aims to focus on several years. assessment and best teaching students’ roles as global citizens. The images are Architects visuals and learning practices. Part of the WES syllabus will include the International Baccalaureate, ‘Whitgift’s involvement will hopefully make a where Whitgift holds the genuine difference to education in a growing economy and allow us to participate in a sustainable educational model’

WHITGIFT LIFE 13 performingA triumph of new arts writing

The House Drama Competition writing in this year’s competition Shakespeare’s Globe and the Allnutt featured as they lambasted kicked off the academic year created an exceptional evening Chichester Festival Theatre, Hollywood with their portrayal of an with a wonderful evening of of memorable and exciting praised all eight Houses for their American late-night talk show host. artistic collaboration. performances and showcased writing ability and endeavours. the creative streak that runs The evening concluded with One of the highlights of the through Drama at Whitgift. The standard of plays was Tates House crowned the School’s theatrical calendar, the exceptionally high and with a winners with their sensitive and competition gives our budding The Houses put tremendous performance that in any other terrifying exposition of a split actors and those simply wanting effort into their productions year would have earned them personality crime scene. The to get involved, the opportunity and the judge, Mr Matthew the title, Andrew’s House was cast included Fifth Formers Kit to take control: devising, directing, Dann, an Old Whitgiftian who narrowly beaten into second place. Connor, Henry Gillard, Daniel producing and even writing their since leaving the school in 2011 Standout performances from Fifth Lindsay and Rafe McCoy and own plays. The level of new has directed productions at Formers Jack Godwin and William Second Former George Barnes.

‘The standard of plays was exceptionally high’

14 WHITGIFT LIFE performing arts

Charity Concert

Towards the end of the Michaelmas Term, Whitgift’s Charity Committee hosted this popular event, with all proceeds from sales of tickets and drinks going to the School’s nominated charities: Bees for Development, Shelterbox and Canine Partners.

The evening was full of music, dance and festive fun and included special collaborations with students from Old Palace of John Whitgift School and Croydon High School. The concert raised £1,286.95 for the chosen charities.

WHITGIFT LIFE 15 news The launch of Black Alumni of Whitgift School (BAWS)

Old Whitgiftian Marcel Hedman, set up an informal network of black alumni to celebrate and support each other in their endeavours, whether that be entrance into top universities or support in their professional careers. Marcel shared with us some of his most memorable moments at Whitgift and what motivated him to set up BAWS.

When were you at Whitgift established way to support and what are you doing now each other in our endeavours. you have left? I wanted to establish BAWS I was at Whitgift from Lower because I felt there was a real First Form till Upper Sixth Form gap and disconnect in the (2009-2017) and I am currently black alumni of Whitgift. After entering my third year of speaking with the two other co- studying Natural Sciences at the founders Funsho Ajayi and Kofi University of Cambridge. While Addei, we realised that this was at Whitgift, I was most interested a sentiment felt by many others in Mathematics and the Sciences and so we felt it necessary to fill and I was fortunate to have this noticeable gap. In addition, passionate teachers to help build I feel passionately about the my skillset. Attending clubs such power of role models and I think as the physics breakfast club or it is important for there to be the chemistry society pushed me visible positive black role models to dive deeper into the subjects for younger students. and go beyond what I learnt on the syllabus. Can you tell us about your first BAWS meeting? What is your fondest memory The first dinner was an amazing of the School? event. We held the dinner in Picking a single memory is very South Croydon and it was a great difficult because of the diversity chance for many of us to see of amazing experiences that I faces that we hadn’t seen since had during my schooling years. our school days. Furthermore, From acting in musicals and the event was noticed by several meeting members of royalty slightly older alumni and so it to organising charity shows, served as a beacon to engage ‘It is important for there to be there was always something alumni of all different age groups. interesting going on. However, visible positive black role models one of my favourite memories What advice would you give some was winning the U18 National of the younger students who may for younger students’ Hockey title in my final year. have just started their journey This memory was special for through the School? What plans do you have for provide what the community me because it represented the To all new joiners and current BAWS in the near future? would like to see. fulfilment of years of work by our students of Whitgift, my advice We currently will continue to team. I still remember the feeling is: seize the opportunities run our annual dinner and we How can people get in touch of elation when the final whistle around you. Whitgift truly is a are also looking at exploring with you? blew, signifying our victory. Our unique oasis of opportunity and other areas to directly give back If you want to get in touch with coach was even outrunning the is a fantastic chance for you to to younger students such as me about BAWS or anything players to celebrate! find passions and skills that you mentoring. Please feel free to else in which you believe I could would never have expected. reach out if you have anything provide support then feel free Why did you want to set up BAWS How do you seize these that you would like to see as we to reach out to me via my email: and what are the aims? opportunities? Push yourself are very keen to ensure that we [email protected] BAWS aims to bring together to try something out of your black alumni so that we can comfort zone and when you do, celebrate our achievements and give 100% to it. In doing so, you Zohra Jeraj, Whitgift’s Alumni Relations co-ordinator is supporting BAWS enjoy each other’s company may shock yourself with where to help connect and engage with more Black Alumni and to ensure current whilst also providing a formal your hidden talents are. leavers are aware of the group – [email protected]

16 WHITGIFT LIFE news Roald Dahl Music Workshop

During the morning they led a music workshop introducing pupils to the various instruments of the wind quintet and exploring ways in which composers use them to make characters jump off the page! Pupils then worked in groups with the members of the ensemble, using various instruments to compose their own music to accompany Roald Dahl’s Little Red Riding Hood poem from Revolting Rhymes.

The evening concert began with a short performance from the The London Myriad Ensemble ensemble of specially selected returned to Whitgift in music communicating a diverse September 2019 for their ever- range of characters. The Lower popular annual Lower First Form First Form then all took to the workshop and performance. On stage for a massed performance this occasion they presented of their composition, with skilful performances by splendiferous narration provided by Mr Paul British composers inspired by the Wilson, culminating in a choral scrumdiddlyumptious writings of performance of Paul Patterson’s Roald Dahl. Little Red Riding Hood song.

Japanese Calligraphy Club

The weekly calligraphy club First Form student, James comes together to enjoy the Dawson, who is one of the club’s challenge of writing Japanese most enthusiastic members characters using a brush and commented, “I think Japanese ink – the traditional art of Calligraphy is a very creative and Shodō, from basic Japanese peaceful club. It really helps me Hiragana characters to Kanji relax, even if it is a busy week. characters. Learning calligraphy I would recommend it to anyone not only strengthens pupils’ who is creative.’’ knowledge of the Japanese language taught to all First to For more information Third Form students, but also about joining the club please helps to develop mindfulness contact Ms Hashimoto: and a sense of aesthetics and [email protected] aids concentration. The best work from each student is photographed so that they can keep a record of their progress. ‘Learning calligraphy also helps to develop mindfulness’

WHITGIFT LIFE 17 news ChoralChoral Review Review – 2019

BBC Midnight Mass and BBC of the choir term for our Minster Radio 4 documentary Choristers and Choral Scholars, Whitgift’s Chorister programme who then sang at the Town Carol has built up some considerable Service at the Minster a couple fame beyond just South London. of days later in the presence In December 2019, BBC Radio of the Mayor of Croydon and 4 followed one of our Minster Croydon’s Town Council. Choristers, Ben Naylor (3JMN), for a whole term, trying to find Other highlights from 2019 out what life is like as a boy The Minster Choristers and chorister. This resulted in the Choral Scholars joined forces spectacular Christmas episode with Her Majesty’s Chapel Royal of Radio 4’s series The Untold Choir and the Godfrey Searle which aired on 23 December. It Choristers of Reigate Grammar was topped the very following School to give a stunning day by a television broadcast concert of choral classics in of Midnight Mass at Croydon the beautiful historic Chapel Minster on BBC One. Twenty- Royal at Hampton Court Palace. one Minster Choristers and It was a particularly uplifting Choral Scholars sang live on air experience for the students to with millions watching! They be performing in the very same did the School, the Minster, and place where composers such as Croydon really proud and put us Thomas Tallis, William Byrd and on the map for choral excellence. Henry Purcell have written and performed their own music. Christmas for the Choristers Other highlights from the Back in November 2019, 60 Christmas period included choir members travelled to performing at The Ritz, with Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford parents and supporters listening to sing Evensong. The beauty of whilst enjoying a delicious both the cathedral and Christ afternoon tea. The annual St Church College was captivating. George’s Church, Hanover The service included music to Square concert also featured a reflect Remembrance Day and wonderful selection of carols was conducted by Whitgift’s sung by the Chamber Choir and Director of Choral Music, Dr Whitgift’s Chamber Orchestra Ronny Krippner, as well as performing Corelli’s Christmas Whitgift’s Sixth Form Organ Concerto under the direction of Scholar, Adam Field. Adam has Whitgift’s Director of Orchestra, also now been appointed Organ ‘The Choristers did Whitgift Mr Philip Winter. At the end of Scholar at Portsmouth Cathedral the school term, the Chamber and has been given an organ proud as they performed on Choir sang at the School’s Carol scholarship at Selwyn College, Service at . This Cambridge – an outstanding BBC One’s Midnight Mass’ was, however, not yet the end achievement!

18 WHITGIFT LIFE performing arts

WHITGIFT LIFE 19 sport Rowing

In early Autumn Whitgift School Ronte and Felix Warne in the J18 Rowing Club was delighted to Championship 2x (double). welcome founding Head Coach Jesse Elzinga to name a new The Fullers Fours Head of the River squad boat in his honour. Jesse was another successful national was a former Whitgift teacher rowing event, and a special and is now Headmaster of mention to Louis Caujolle, Archie Reading Blue Coat School. Donald, Max Ronte and Felix Warne for coming 4th in the Junior Championship 4x.

Students competed at the British Rowing Indoor Championships in December, a national indoor competition. Highlights include senior students (Louis Caujolle, Feargus Crisanto-Roth, Archie Donald, Max Ronte) winning a bronze medal in the team relay event, Ali El-Sayed came 6th for During the Michaelmas Half Fourth Form students and Max Term, the Rowing team attended Ronte (pictured, right) came 6th a training camp at Molesey Boat for Sixth Form students. Club. All of the above results are in Several senior pupils also national fields with well over 50 attended the Pairs Head of the competitors in each category – River race and achieved very solid fantastic achievements. results. A highlight being Max

Rugby

It has been a busy season for The block results for the Rugby at Whitgift, with both the U14s, U15s and U16s have Junior and Senior teams enjoying been excellent and it has been the sport and developing well. great to see students doing so well across the board. In August 2019, 51 pupils from the 1st XV and 2nd XV teams The School is very proud to enjoyed a fantastic tour to New have Conor Slevin playing for Zealand, with the 1st XV winning Quins U18, and Joe Vajner all five games and 2nd XV playing for London Irish U18. winning four out of five games.

The 1st XV had a superb season as they won the President’s Cup. These pupils won a successful 17 out of 20 games with notable wins against Warwick, John Fisher, RGS High Wycombe, Dulwich and a good Cup run in December 2019 beating Abingdon in the quarter- final. The team will be playing against Sherborne in the semi- final in March 2020.

20 WHITGIFT LIFE sport Football

Since the start of last term We are excited to have had During the Michaelmas Half Whitgift Football has played six international call ups since Term, 34 of the U16-U18 130 fixtures with over 330 boys September 2019 alone; Leo pupils attended a training camp participating. The U14s remain Castledine (England U15s), in Oliva Nova, situated just on track to make it a historic hat Billie Gee (England U16s), Fionn outside of Valencia. The six-day trick of ESFA national titles. The Mooney (the Republic of Ireland camp consisted of two training U15s are currently unbeaten, U18s), Jadan Raymond (England sessions per day, along with two winning all eight of their last U17s), James Sweet (Wales matches which the boys won 6-2 eight matches and are still in U17s) and Morgan Williams and 2-1 against local teams. both national competitions. (Wales U16s).

Golf Basketball Whitgift Basketball is all about & U18 teams will compete at the discovering a passion and giving league finals at Dulwich College everyone an opportunity to be in mid-March. part of a team sport. The increase in popularity and number of boys The U16’s and U19’s have won who are participating allows them their respective pool stages in to have fun, but quite competitive the Basketball England Schools training sessions. That in turn competition and have therefore has resulted in continuous qualified for the knock-out improvement for individual stages. U16 England player players as well as the overall Myles Alcindor led the squad programme. All our participating against Aylesbury Grammar age groups are currently ranked School to a win of 62:53. The among the top three teams in U19 Captain David Ho (pictured the LISBA (London Independent on the front cover) and his team Schools Basketball Association) faced Hayes School and won League. We are proud that as a 72:63. Huge congratulations to result Whitgift’s U14, U15, U16 all the players.

We are proud that Whitgift’s Competing at the HMC first Elite Programme graduate, Foursomes Finals in 2018/19 at George Mullins has achieved the historic Rye Golf Club was a full playing rights on the PGA highlight. Our three golf teams EuroPro Tour. have played over 35 fixtures and events this year with the During lunchtimes, the School’s U13 pairing of George Mace and onsite PGA Professional is kept Jamie Player doing very well to very busy with the 20 or so reach the ISGA League Finals at visitors utilising the golf facility Radley College. Congratulations and the increasing number of also to Riccardo Fantinelli who boys joining local golf clubs. finished in the top 20 of the Italian U17 Championships. The U18 team, which consisted of Rocky Chapman (Fifth Form), The new school year has seen Riccardo Fantinelli (Fifth Form) the U18 team progress to the and Aidan Millham (Fourth Form) ISGA Matchplay Regional final did exceptionally well to reach and the Regional semi-final the ISGA National Finals. Rocky of the HMC Foursomes. The has recently returned from the prestigious HMC singles was Forest of Arden Marriott Hotel won by Fifth Former, Riccardo & Country Club after winning Fantinelli with an impressive the ISGA HG Trophy which 1 under, 71. is a National Open event for independent schools.

WHITGIFT LIFE 21 news Global Citizenship launch for Junior Years

Whitgift aims to develop International Mindedness in our students and a new Global Citizenship element of the Junior Years curriculum was launched in 2019. Pupils are encouraged to show initiative in extending learning in their own ways outside the classroom, bringing a personalised element to the curriculum in the broadest sense of the word.

Lower First Formers have three timetabled Global Citizenship lessons per fortnight, whilst First and Second Formers have it embedded within all subjects and one formal lesson per half term. “Think local, act global” is the focus for students.

Ignite is a programme for Second Formers. They are tasked with an independent project based around Global Citizenship, consisting of a 2000-word essay, a presentation and a creative interpretation which can be a model, video, online campaign etc. We look forward to reporting more about the exciting student work resulting from new subjects.

“Think local, act global” is the focus for students

22 WHITGIFT LIFE news We will remember them

Pupils, staff and Old Whitgiftians came together on Monday 11 November for the annual Remembrance Day service. Lower School students gathered in respectful silence while Reverend Alan Bayes led a moving service. Lower School Captain, Jake Dennis and School Captain, Zain Peerbhoy delivered thought provoking readings with the Chamber Choir performing a poignant rendition of the anthem ‘For the Fallen’ by Douglas Guest.

The Whitgift Corp of Drums opened and closed the service with members of the CCF performing the role of Flag Party including the tradition of flags at half-mast. Wreaths were laid to honour those who have given their lives in the line of duty by ‘The Whitgift Mr Oliver Roberts on behalf of staff, Mr Richard Blundell on Corp of Drums behalf of OWs and Zain Peerbhoy on behalf of students. opened and closed the service’

WHITGIFT LIFE 23 trips Highlights from this year’s local and international trips.

1

1 Munich trip

2 Second Form visit to Buddhist Centre in South Croydon

3 Lower First trip to Lake Garda and Venice

4 Fourth Form History trip to Berlin

5 Fourth Form Spanish exchange to Valencia

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4

5

24 WHITGIFT LIFE 6 Fifth Form Fine Art Trip to Victoria and Albert Museum

7 Theology & Philosophy trip to BAPS Shri Swaminarayan temple, London

8 Fifth Form Chinese exchange to Bejing

9 Fifth Form Graphics Group 6 7 trip to Warner Brothers Studio

10 Fifth Form Chinese

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WHITGIFT LIFE 2525 news

Junior Literary Festival

In November 2019, the English department held its annual Junior Literary Festival which echoes the Hay Festivals held around the world, made famous in Hay-on- Wye, Wales. The festivals bring together authors, politicians, poets, scientists, comedians, philosophers and musicians.

Whitgift had six remarkable authors visit the School: Chris Words Bradford, Karl Nova, Steve Cole, Nikki Sheehan, Matt Whyman and Stephen Davies. Each hosted an assembly and led creative workshops for First Formers. Students thoroughly enjoyed learning about how these authors became successful and the techniques used to enhance their writing and talents. The pupils were also treated to a book- signing session at lunchtime.

Whitgift would like thank all the authors for celebrating the Junior Literary Festival with us and in making it another successful event.

26 WHITGIFT LIFE visitor news Prince Philip Scholarship Award

Old Whitgiftian, Isaac Fung was grateful and that with has been awarded the Prince the ‘Scholarship’s help and Philip Scholarship for his generosity,’ he would be able to undergraduate studies at pursue his academic dream of Cambridge University. studying History. Isaac praised the School’s History department Keen to try boarding in England, by stating that “Whitgift greatly Isaac joined Whitgift from an supported the application international school in Hong process and made sure I kept in Kong at the age of 13. He touch with OWs at Cambridge was attracted to the School’s and arranged meetings so that strong reputation and beautiful I could discuss how to grounds. He commented, “I was successfully apply.” lucky to have had a really great History teacher who pushed me Happy to support any towards applying for Cambridge”. prospective Oxbridge candidates from Whitgift, Isaac encourages Impressed with the ‘extensive everyone to consider applying guidance on Oxbridge and hopes to see many more admissions’ he received Whitgift students at Cambridge from Whitgift, Isaac said he in the future.

By Royal Invitation On Tuesday 26 November, Old Whitgiftian Jack Preuveneers was presented to HM The Queen at the official opening of the new headquarters of the Royal Philatelic Society of London (RPSL).

During his time at Whitgift, Jack built an international standard collection of 18th and 19th century Scandinavian philately (stamps and postal material) which led to him being named British Youth Stamp Champion in September 2019. This in turn led directly to his invitation to meet the Queen, who specifically asked to meet young philatelists at the RPSL opening.

Jack is currently in his third year of an MEng in Ship Science at Southampton University.

WHITGIFT LIFE 27 diary

FORTHCOMING EVENTS PERFORMING FRENCH WITHOUT TEARS Wednesday 11 March to Friday 13 March ARTS EVENTS Tickets: £8 and £4 concession* (by reserving on WisePay only)

ROYAL FESTIVAL HALL CONCERT Wednesday 18 March 7pm, The Royal Festival Hall Tickets: Purchase via South Bank Centre

PERCUSSION EVENING Wednesday 25 March Time 6.30pm, Concert Hall FREE Admission (by reserving on WisePay only)

STRICTLY COME BRASSING Friday 27 March 7pm, Concert Hall FREE admission Classical Extravaganza… (by reserving on WisePay only)

GUITAR FESTIVAL Wednesday 1 April ROYAL 6.30pm, Concert Hall FREE Admission (no reservation required) FESTIVAL HALL CONCERT

Wednesday 18 March 7pm Royal Festival Hall

For more information and to book tickets, please visit www.whitgift.co.uk/RFH

BOOKING INFORMATION Please visit www.whitgift.co.uk/events for all our events and information on how to book. Photography *Concessions: Front cover: DFPhotography Children 16 and under, Over 60s, Students (17–25 in full-time Inside: Alex Hill, Bruce Atherton, Dan Fearon, DF Photography, Hugh Warwick, Sports Action Photography, William Wood education)

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