Pate’s Progress

Issue 31 • Autumn 2012

In this Issue Charity Committee 2010/11 Romania Trip UK Space Design Competition WinnersIn this Issue GeographyFarewell Trip toFenton Iceland 2011 2001Silver and Jubilee 2006 Leavers’ Leavers Concert Return to Pate’s Olympic Torch Athletics – NationalRefectory Champion Contents The Head Master Exam Results 3 House Drama 3 writes .... Farewell Fenton 4 Leavers’ Day 4 Pate’s is an inspiring Music 5 school and I am Art 6 privileged to be Science 8 its new Head Economics & Business Studies 10 Master. Four years Geography 11 ago I took the The Pate’s Foundation 11 opportunity to visit Honour the Founder 12 the school as part Languages 14 of the Deputy Head English 14 appointment process and was immediately impressed by Outdoor Education 15 how the school ‘feels’ when you walk around. This was Other News 16 a school that I was desperate to be a part of, and to be Parents’ Association 18 asked now to lead the school is an immense honour and Alumni 19 a great opportunity. We have an outstanding staff who Sport 22 share my commitment to improve the lives of the students Refectory 24 in our care. We strive to help them achieve academic Fundraising 24 outcomes that are beyond their potential, but moreover we are keen to see them develop as rounded individuals with a secure moral framework and a desire to be the leaders of their generation. Thank you for the support and comments you have fed through to me following my appointment. They mean a great deal and I look forward to working with all members of the Pate’s community as we take the school forward. At this stage I must take a moment to publicly thank Shaun Fenton for his leadership of the school over the last six years. Pate’s is at the forefront of new developments in education and has a national reputation that has grown markedly under his leadership. His achievements as Head Master were numerous and I know that his new school, Reigate Grammar School, will be amazed at his insight, his energy and his commitment to providing the best for the students in his school. We wish Shaun and his family every happiness for the future. The new Refectory building has greatly enhanced the facilities at Pate’s. Students have access to a new social and study space that will be used as an eating area, a pavilion and a flexible learning space. We are now awaiting the construction of a five classroom block that will provide new teaching spaces, much needed at a time when we have more students than ever. I am very aware that we have been fortunate to have this opportunity at a time when school budgets are increasingly being squeezed. Thank you to the Pate’s Foundation and all alumni and parents who have helped to make these developments a reality. This is an exciting time for the school and Pate’s Progress provides a wonderful showcase for the wide range of opportunities that our students are involved in. The House Drama – Finale school is continually evolving and there may be some of On the cover: Current and former Pate’s students carrying the you who have not visited us for a while. Please do contact Olympic Torch us, we would be delighted to share your memories of your time at Pate’s and to show you how the school is How to contact us ... moving forward. We are determined to be innovative yet mindful of our values and that ‘feel’ that I sensed when Pate’s Grammar School first visiting. I look forward to this challenge and to leading Princess Elizabeth Way Pate’s to further successes. Glos GL51 OHG

Tel: 01242 523 169 Fax: 01242 232 775 Email: [email protected] Website: www.pates.gloucs.sch.uk

2 Pate’s Progress – Autumn 2012 Exam Results

e were delighted that, yet again, our students have achieved ensure that we build on this success to ensure that our students Wrecord exam results for Pate’s at both GCSE and A level. continue to get the best life chances. We know that nationally Although the national trends for the top grades were down on there are likely to be changes to the way students are assessed, previous years, Pate’s students managed to increase the number of and this may include attempts to reduce the number of top grades A* and A grades – placing the school in the top five for attainment awarded. We hope that the whims of the policy makers do not in the country. At GCSE nine out of ten grades were A* or A, with impact negatively on the aspirations of our young people. over half of all grades being an A*. At A2 level the main measure We delight in this success but know that being a Pate’s pupil is in league tables is A* – B. This is another area where we saw an about far more than academic attainment. This edition of Pate’s increase, from 92% in 2011 to 95%. The results are testament to Progress showcases some of the events and activities that our the hard work and diligence of the students, the expertise and students and staff are engaged in outside of lessons. As you know outstanding guidance offered by our teaching staff and the support these do so much to boost self-esteem, to raise confidence, to of our parents. The successful students will now embark on life in develop leadership skills and moreover are great fun! the Sixth form or University with confidence and with a range of We work hard to achieve exam success. It is right that we opportunities open to them. We wish them well. celebrate another tremendous year. Congratulations to all of As a school we will take some time to reflect on these results the students and thank you to the teaching staff who made their and consider how they were achieved. Our aim must now be to success possible. House Drama

he end of the Summer Term saw an excellent quartet of subtle, acting performances. In the end Gloucester House with THouse Drama productions emerge from the optimism of a highly polished production of ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’ won auditions, through the chaos of rehearsals to the ultimate triumph the Best Show Award, but Beaufort’s ‘Annie’, York’s ‘Joseph’, of performance. With so many activities, trips, camps and so on, and Richmond’s ‘Wizard’ were all excellent shows, each with all competing to create an action-packed end of year, the rehearsal their own strengths. The Four House Medley, arranged by Miss process was rather fitful, yet somehow, as if by ‘Pate’s Magic’ it all Thorpe, provided a wonderful climax to the final performances. came together in the end. There was some great solo and chorus Our thanks, once again to Mr Richard Elgood for his witty and singing, slick dance routines and thoroughly engaging, if not exactly insightful adjudication. Rory O'Sullivan

Beaufort’s ‘Annie’

Gloucester’s ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’

Richmond’s ‘Wizard of Oz’

York’s ‘Joseph’

Pate’s Progress – Autumn 2012 3 Farewell Fenton

overnors knew, when they appointed Shaun Fenton as Head, Secretary insights from one of Britain’s best schools. But the Gthat he was well equipped to make a big difference to Pate’s. entertainer inside the supreme professional was also joyfully An experienced Headteacher (despite being significantly younger visible throughout his time at Pate’s: Shaun never could resist the than most of the appointment panel!) with a track record of opportunity to throw himself into the lighter side of life at Pate’s, delivering successful change and performance improvement, he as these pictures show! also showed determination and stamina from day one – arriving at school for his interview having had no sleep, straight from the hospital where his son had just been born. And his showbiz background (mentioned almost every time he and Pate’s feature in the local media…) added an exotic and unpredictable extra perspective. Six years on, Shaun has fulfilled the educational and leadership promise Governors identified. We say goodbye with sadness, but grateful for all his hard work and delighted that he leaves Pate’s in great shape, in good heart and in safe hands. He has led Pate’s to ever greater success and influence, locally and nationally – including various invitations to offer the Education

Leavers’ Day 25 May 2012 eavers’ Day was an emotional day for everybody - students Land teachers alike. It was a genuine pleasure to see our leavers celebrate their time at Pate's in such a joyful and heartfelt way. The day began with a delicious ‘full English’ breakfast and whole school assembly during which Leavers’ Awards were presented. Ceremonies continued with an uplifting and moving speech from Mr Fenton, who was presented with his very own Leavers’ hoodie. After a short break to mop the tears and take some refreshment, the stage was set for the much-anticipated Sixth Form Entertainment: an incredibly professional event that once again showcased the talents of this outstanding year group. From Luke Rollason’s uncanny impersonation of Mr Ellicott to Chara Tan’s beautiful song, via assorted hobbits and our own episode of Masterchef, there wasn’t a dull moment. The Leavers’ Ball at , attended by over 230 students and staff, was a fitting end to a wonderful day; the band, led by our own Mrs Attwood, had the dance floor packed throughout! From breakfast all the way to the last dance at the Ball all the students behaved impeccably, and enjoyed a send-off that we hope they will remember fondly for many years to come.

4 Pate’s Progress – Autumn 2012 Music Recital Evening n February performers from every year group had the chance to (clarinet Year 8), Louise Turner (violin Year 8), Dan Gilchrist (cello Ishow off their skills in a selection of solo and chamber items. From Year 8), Meg Webb (clarinet Year 10), Hannah Street (clarinet Year the sensitive guitar of Benjamin Janus (7G) to the impressive clarinet 12), Matthew Torr (piano Year 11) and Jenny Shrimpton (soprano playing of Freya Ireland (Year 9), performances were outstanding. Year 13). The following day we were also privileged to hear Chara Other inspiring musicians included Milly Dellow (violin Year 7), Lucy Tan (Year 13) reprise her performance of Makholm’s jazz-inspired Hollands and Cameron Beaney (both piano Year 7), Josh Cottell piano composition in whole school assembly.

Wind Quintet Pate’s Wind Quintet reached the national finals of the Pro Corda National Schools’ Chamber Music Competition in March. They faced stiff competition, including ensembles from the Royal Academy of Music Junior Department and other specialist music schools. They thoroughly enjoyed finals day at Sevenoaks School, giving very polished performances of pieces by Haydn and Reicha. Many congratulations to: Abigail Waterman (flute Year 10), Artica Lai (oboe Year 12), Hannah Street (clarinet Year 12), Alex Willet (horn Year 13) and Chloe Badge (bassoon Year 12).

Silver Jubilee Leavers’ Concert

The Annual Leavers’ Concert was transformed this year by inclusion of celebrations to mark the 25th anniversary of Pate’s as as a mixed school. The Wind Quintet greeted the audience outside Pump Room (for as long as the blustery conditions would allow!) before First Orchestra opened the concert proper, performing the overture to The Big Country and the Thunderbirds March! More traditional Leavers’ fare followed, with exceptional performances from Year 13s including the 1st movement of Mozart’s 3rd Horn concerto accompanied by First Orchestra, and stunning vocal performances including solos from Jenny Shrimpton, Hebe Hamilton and Mike Fay. To mark the Silver Jubilee we also invited junior ensembles to play, and they certainly made their mark – particularly the Second Orchestra performance of the Harry Potter theme. Junior and Senior jazz bands also had everybody’s toes tapping, and the evening came to a Music was awarded to Alex Willet for jazz piano and for running rousing conclusion the Dixie Band, and he was also recognised for outstanding horn with a massed playing. Our new prize – the John Elvan Rees award – is not just performance of for leavers but may be awarded to any pupil who has contributed a Holst’s Jupiter. lot to the Music Department as well as making excellent progress As is traditional, on their instrument. The inaugural award was made to Abigail music awards were Waterman (Year 10). an important feature of the evening. The Dean Stubbs Cup for Services to Music was shared between William Percy (who leaves us to study cello at the Royal Academy of Music) and Charles Gurnham, who is heading to to study Physics and take up an organ scholarship at Fitzwilliam College. The Brian Jones cup for Modern

Pate’s Progress – Autumn 2012 5 Art

Brandenburg Gate

the opportunity to create their own graffiti in the studio, using Art Department in Berlin sophisticated stencilling and spray painting techniques. Other his year’s study tour to Germany proved to be one of our tour highlights included visiting the Hamburger Bahnof art gallery Tmost inspiring international trips ever. Berlin lived up to its (featuring an installation of 40' high biospheres visitors could climb reputation as Europe’s most exciting, contemporary art centre, into!), the Reichstag at night, the haunting Jewish Museum and with ground-breaking architecture and thought-provoking exploring the freezing-cold outdoor East Side Gallery – with the exhibitions in a city which has history coursing through its veins, promise of a hot chocolate to keep us going! under a soft layer of snow. Joining an Alternative Berlin workshop Face to face on the first day was the students’ introduction to the city’s street with Mao! art, including a walking tour to find the most influential works and

Alternative Berlin graffiti workshop

Hamburg Bahnof

6 Pate’s Progress – Autumn 2012 Hockney painting workshop Inspired by Hockney, using an iPad

hirty Year 7 students were selected to visit the acclaimed using the technology that several ended up giving free tutorials on TDavid Hockney exhibition at the Royal Academy in London how to use the app to other visitors! In the afternoon, students this Spring, and to take part in painting workshops. After worked in groups to paint their own colourful landscapes inspired exploring the exhibition – overwhelming in both colour and by Hockney – the end of a great day out and an unforgettable scale – students used iPads to sketch the art work, working in a experience. similar manner to Hockney himself. So adept were our students at

ear 10’s London trip centred on the National Portrait YGallery’s Lucian Freud retrospective. The exhibition brought together a huge collection of work that spanned a lifetime – from early, detailed self-portraits to his later expressive, fleshy nudes. Students acted on Freud’s inspiration to create their own self- portraits, using oil paint for the first time. The outstanding results are on show at Soho Coffee shop in Cheltenham until September; see if you can spot someone you know! Proceeds from the annual Silent Art Auction have this year been used to establish a photography darkroom. Our 6th formers have already learned darkroom techniques including how to develop their own pictures and use ‘liquid light’, and the facility will be open to more students next year as this area of the department expands. We have also invested in new sewing machines so we can teach more textile-based skills and extend students’ experience of Art and Design.

Year 10 Self-portrait

Pate’s Progress – Autumn 2012 7 Science

ate’s students have spent this year working alongside scientists The advantage that Dr Rob gets from working with us is that Pfrom around the world: talking to them about their research our students can provide detailed insights into the national data and in some cases contributing new ideas. Five Year 9 and 8 set and help to explain local anomalies. For instance, was that blip classes took part in ‘I’m a Scientist Get Me Out of Here!’. a in the data a respiratory illness or was it down to norovirus? project which gets school students and scientists talking. Having Pate’s, along with schools from all over the country, has been heard from all the scientists, students vote for the one they think uploading absence data all year. The project has allowed our year should win a prize to help them communicate their work further. 8s to learn more about what it is like to be a scientist, analysing Jamie Horseman (Year 9) won the “best student” prize in our the data and reporting their findings back to Dr Rob. group (Selenium Zone), having been selected by the scientists for One of the most important things to learn about being a her thoughtful participation. One scientist noted that she asked scientist is, of course, that experiments often don’t work! “several great questions during the competition, including one on Ironically this year, even though the Royal College of General

the effect of lightning on air-sea CO2 flux that relates to my own Practitioners were predicting a worse-than-average flu season, research and I’d never considered before.” with seasonal flu making a comeback against swine flu and taking Our students’ ideas have also helped drive the scientists’ advantage of lowered immunity in the population, it turns out research. Pate’s has been the hub of a nationwide project to they were wrong. We’ve just had one of the weakest seasons on discover whether school absence data could be used to track record! levels of influenza in the community and maybe even warn of outbreaks before they occur. Despite being a trivial illness for most, seasonal influenza still kills over a quarter of a million The flu graph people worldwide annually. Dr Rob Aldridge, an epidemiologist However, there was a minor flu peak around the February half at University College London, works to reduce the numbers of term and the school absence data did peak ahead of it. The dips people who get ill from illnesses like influenza and tuberculosis. in the absence line are due to a glitch in the way the graphing He explained to our students how seasonal influenza usually peaks tool recorded the missing data from school holidays – something once a year, and that the NHS tracks this through a range of we’re working on a fix for. Although the national flu peak was measures like people reporting flu-like symptoms to their GP. But not significant enough for us to be able to publish research these measurements only reveal the presence of an outbreak after conclusions just yet, we’ve been able to establish a firm baseline it has peaked, and the data is incomplete as many people don’t absence level against which future absences can be measured. If report flu symptoms. we can secure funding to repeat the project next year, we hope that a number Dr Rob of our students will be Dr Rob found some evidence in the literature that tracking school acknowledged as co-authors absences could help to detect flu outbreaks earlier than other in the peer-reviewed surveillance methods. The close proximity and efficient mixing literature. So while we’re of school children could lead to outbreaks peaking in schools not hoping for more flu next before the rest of the community, allowing the NHS to respond year, if it comes there may accordingly. be a silver lining!

8 Pate’s Progress – Autumn 2012 Pate’s celebrates National Science & Engineering Week in style

For a week in March Pate’s pupils were spoilt for scientific choice. Year 7 pupils were visited by Jonathan Cleverly and his Jungle Roadshow – including a snake which nearly everyone (apart from one nervous teacher…) enjoyed handling. They also travelled to the NEC for the Big Bang Science Fair: an exhibition hall full to capacity with experiments to try out, and a presentation by the BBC ‘Bang Goes the Theory’ team.

Jungle Roadshow

Bridge winners

Mrs Smee’s ever-popular rat dissection demonstration. That same week 20 lucky Year 12 Physics students travelled to the Rutherford-Appleton Lab at Harwell for a Particle Physics Masterclass. Many commented that it was their best ever school trip: the lectures were of a very high standard, and the day ended with a visit to the UK’s newest particle accelerator, the Diamond light source. By accelerating electrons to near light-speed, Diamond generates brilliant beams of light from infra-red to X-rays Year 8 pupils, organised into teams of mixed tutor groups, which are used for academic and worked all day on an engineering challenge: building the strongest industrial research and development, Ice-cream bridge out of paper tubes connected with nuts and bolts. The across a range of scientific disciplines. winning bridge, built by ‘The Tubbys’ (Emily Tarry, Izzy Tinkler, But probably the most popular Emma Winder and Emanuelle Paulson), supported 6.5kg across scientific event of the term was when a span of 1 metre. The runners-up were ‘QWERTY’ (Joe White, Year 7 were treated to a fantastic Ed Tansley, Sam Tilley and Dylan Shepherd) with a load of 4.2kg. display of the properties of liquid All eight pupils were invited to compete in a County-wide nitrogen at – 196oC. Alex Tallon (a event during the Cheltenham Science Festival, sponsored by GE 2011 leaver, now studying Physics Aviation. at Bristol University) completed Our own Mr Fleming’s lecture ‘Clouds Suck’ – previously his demonstration by using it to presented to much acclaim at the Cheltenham Science Festival – make ice-cream, which was much was the highlight of the week for Year 9, though they also enjoyed appreciated by his audience!

Phenomenal Physics Walters, Luke Williams and William Winder. It has been another terrific year for the Physics department, with At GCSE level Matthew Torr performed outstandingly, to great success at all three levels of the internationally recognised achieve Silver, and Rory Green, Francis Riazi Kermani, Alexander UK Physics Olympiad. Charles Gurnham and Patricia Smith both Tribley and Eleanor Wilson all secured Bronze awards. achieved a Bronze award in the A2 section of the competition, and Samson Hedley has been accepted onto the prestigious Senior 16 other Pate’s physicists were commended. Physics Challenge: a one-week Cambridge University course which Rabeet Khan secured a remarkable Silver award in the AS sets delegates challenging theoretical and practical problems. And category, and Bronze awards at this level were won by Philip Todd Slaughter won through a similarly competitive process to Beckett, Abigail Duffus, Cameron Few, James Harwood, Samson be selected to attend a one-week Engineering course at Hedley, Morgan Jones, Farhaan Khan, Piers Stuart-Kelso, Simon University. Very well done to all of our outstanding physicists!

Pate’s Students Image the Universe

Observation is perhaps the most important and interesting feature of the GCSE Astronomy course. A surprising amount of detail can be seen just by looking at the night sky with the naked eye or a pair of binoculars. This year pupils have braved the cold and battled with the British weather to observe the planets and their moons, producing fantastic drawings of lunar features and capturing stunning images of the night sky. But the chance to use the Faulkes telescope in Hawaii – a 2m diameter robotic telescope that can be controlled remotely over the internet – provided an unmissable opportunity to image objects that are far too faint to be captured with our smaller us to look millions of years back in time. There will be more telescopes. The images here were taken by our students, showing opportunities to use Faulkes, providing opportunities for other galaxies and nebulae millions of light years away – enabling students to take their own images of our amazing universe.

Pate’s Progress – Autumn 2012 9 Economics & Business Studies Student Investor Challenge

our Pate’s students (Ryan Lee, Oliver Wilcock, Sam Hart and FAlex Walsh) jetted off to New York in July for an all-expenses- paid trip – one of their prizes for winning the IFS School of Finance National Student Investor competition. They had begun by investing £100,000 of fantasy money in the stock market – focussing mainly on raw commodities. Returning a £12,460 profit, they outperformed the FTSE by 7% to become one of the 20 most successful teams of student investors in the South West. But the competition was about more than just picking profitable stocks. The second round of the competition, in Bristol, required the team to demonstrate their knowledge of business, economics and current affairs. Winning the regional stage against tough local The London-based phase of the competition provided some competition, the team moved up to the final challenge: to deliver unique experiences: a photocall on top of the IFS building, with a presentation at the School of Finance’s Head Office in Central the Gherkin and Shard as prominent features of the cityscape London which explained “What is Responsible Capitalism, and can backdrop and such high winds that the victors’ cheque almost it promote UK prosperity?”. blew away; a fascinating talk from Faisal Islam of Channel Four The Pate’s team argued that responsible capitalism isn’t just News on the current European Crisis – delivered calmly, despite possible but also beneficial: if businesses and investors had focused Faisal having arrived in a rush straight from interviewing the on long-term outcomes rather than short-term returns events like Chancellor; and an opportunity to quiz Paul Fisher, who sits on the 2008 financial crisis might have been avoided. They advocated the Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee, about banking banking reform (more local banks, able to take account of social reform and monetary policy. and environmental outcomes as well as profit) and tax reform to In the national final Pate’s defeated teams from some of the help incentivise responsibility and broaden employee-led company (other!) best schools in the UK, winning not just because of the ownership. The judges were impressed by the team’s ambition and exceptional quality of their presentation, but also because of slick presentation (many hours of practice!), but also praised the the way they responded to the final Olympic-themed business volume and quality of the primary research which supported and challenge. They were worthy winners of the prize fund: £200 each shaped their conclusions: the team surveyed 70 consumers as well (real rather than fantasy money!), £2000 for the school, and the as two local businesses, Ecotricity and Bramley & Gage. fabulous trip to NY. Sam Hart

Young Enterprise 2011-2012 BASE competition

Made With Care – Pate’s latest Young Enterprise Twelve Year 12 Business and Economics students represented Company (involving Year 12 Economics and Pate’s at the BASE (Business, Accounting and Skills Education) Business Studies students) – performed competition, run by ICAEW (the Institute of Chartered exceptionally well at the Trade Accountants) at the University of Gloucestershire. The Fair Exhibition in March. Led superbly by Tilly competition requires each six-strong team to respond to a business Aung, Made With Care won six awards, including scenario similar to the case studies used in ICA exams, acting as first prize for Manufacturing and second for Ethical Enterprise: Consultants in presenting their findings and recommendations to Pate’s students’ best result for a number of years. The judges were judges playing the part of business clients. Our students conducted particularly impressed by their main product: a ‘Hardy Wallet’ themselves impressively, prepared thoroughly and offered well- made from Tyvek, a tear-resistant and splash-proof recyclable judged and knowledgeable responses. Although our teams material. The team went on to gain third place at the Area Final, narrowly missed out on victory (sharing second place) the judges following a confident and professional presentation from Mike commented particularly on their articulateness! Hollingshead, Sophia Savage, Harry Barnes and Henry Stanimeros. Pate’s teams comprised: Jack Laughland, Sophia Savage, Christina Adnett, Ehren Smith, Spencer Hooton, Tilly Aung, Jonjo Berry, Simon Waters, Faith Jones, Henry Stanimeros, Jay Karadia and Will Peake.

10 Pate’s Progress – Autumn 2012 Geography

naming flags, important dates and symbols. Students chose their House Humanities Quiz teams trying to mix and complement their expert knowledge he first House Humanities Quiz took place with Year 7 at across the subjects; it was surprising how many students were Tthe end of the summer term. After internal exams, students renowned for their ability to name capitals! A lively competition looked forward to a quiz where they thought they would know ensued but one team ‘We ate all the pies’ in 7G was victorious by all the answers. Geography, History and Religious Studies each a large margin with 57 out of 65 points, and the overall winners had rounds on the subjects’ expected knowledge which included were 7G with a class average of 34 points.

Olympics Site Visit In the build-up to the Olympics the Geography department took 57 Year 9 students to see the Olympic site as part of their Urban Environments unit. The day-trip started at the Westfield shopping centre where the largest McDonald’s in the world had opened and then a tour around the various venues: the Olympic Park, including the stadium, athletes village, aquatics centre and the £20 million work of art, the Arcelor Mittal Orbit; interestingly the guide said it was possible to see the 100m track from the top … The tour then went across the Thames where we could see the new cable car across the river, a walking bridge over the O2 arena and the equestrian venue in Greenwich Park. Throughout the tour the guide emphasised that everything that had been built would create a legacy that would remain for future generations, e.g. the medical centre would become a hospital and the USA’s training base a University! We will have to wait and see if that aspiration is realized, however it was evident that for everyone going to the Olympics it would be a once in a lifetime experience. Olympians of the future… outside the Olympics Equestrian venue

The Pate’s Foundation

s Chair of Governors I have the pleasure of working alongside Athe Pate’s Foundation, which has been supporting our school for around 425 years. The ‘potted history’ of Pate’s on the school website shows that the relationship with the Foundation and with Corpus Christi College Oxford (Richard Pate’s alma mater, to which he entrusted management of his legacies) has not always been easy. But it’s currently in very good order: in May we celebrated the 100th AGM* of the Pate's ‘family’ (PGS, Richard Pate School, the Almshouses and the Foundation) at Corpus with a nice lunch and the exchange of 'Concord' pear trees. The relationship with Corpus provides insights for our 6th formers into how to navigate Oxbridge applications, and academic development opportunities for staff; the Richard Pate School is not just one of our feeder primaries, but also contributes revenue to the Foundation from which we get shared benefit; and the Foundation provides not just capital investment, but on-going financial support to PGS, and bursaries for individual students. So with the opening of the new Refectory and other consequential works in the kitchen area, Science and IT, which the Foundation supported to the tune of £1.5m, we must remember to thank not just current generous donors, but also Richard Pate and the Trustees who carry on his work: providing real benefit to 21st century Patesians from this historic legacy. * No-one seems sure why it was the 100th AGM, rather than the 425th. One of many things lost in the mists of time – unless Alumni know better?

Pate’s Progress – Autumn 2012 11 Honour the Founder

he final line of the first school song says “honour the founder, Thonour the fellowship, honour the name of Richard Pate”. All of us who are involved with Pate’s Grammar School, staff and students, past and present, have indeed much to thank him for. Our long history gives us an identity few other schools can boast of.

Schola Grammatica

up by Richard Pate in the year 1586. He endowed his old college, Corpus Christi, with property he had purchased, on condition that three-quarters of the income should be used by the College ‘for the perpetual maintenance and foundation of a free Grammar School at Cheltenham ... and also a Hospital or Almshouse for six old poor people’. He remained a Commissioner until 1581 when he became Lord High Sheriff of Gloucestershire. He died in 1588, in Gloucester, and is buried in the south transept of the Cathedral where the memorial to him was erected. On his tomb is inscribed Patebit tum quod latuit, meaning what is hidden will be revealed, the motto of our school. The document giving land and property for the endowment of Pate’s school, Pate’s Royal Grant and Letters Patent (1574), is beautifully inscribed on parchment and kept at Corpus Christi College. The Indenture, drawn up in 1586, refers to the Royal Grant and further sets out some rules affecting the school, the nature and functions of a grammar school. Some interesting Cheltenham Grammar School Song requirements include: the stipulation that the head “must be a Born in Cheltenham in 1516, Richard Pate was educated in Master of Arts … of the age of thirty years at the least”; they must his local chantry school and, at age sixteen, moved to Corpus display “lively examples and patterns of virtue”; they will receive Christi College, Oxford. There is, however, no record of his an annual salary of £16; and they will have use of a schoolhouse having completed any and “pasture for one cow in the fields of Cheltenham”. Further, Richard Pate 1516-1588 degree! Following it was decreed that even if the scholars numbered only fifty that some years of legal “four at least shall have knowledge in the Greek and tongues training at Lincoln’s … five other of that number able to translate any piece of familiar Inn (1541–1544) he English speech into Latin, and four other able to make a sentence went on to serve as of true Latin”. On the Indenture document we find the earliest a Commissioner for Henry VIII, Edward Indenture classroom illustration VI and Elizabeth I. With income from the chantries granted to him by Elizabeth I, Richard Pate founded his Schola Grammatica, “for the children and youth of Cheltenham and other nearby places”, in the High Street, Cheltenham. The foundation stone of the school was laid on 28th April, 1572 and it opened to pupils in 1574. Pate’s Grammar School Foundation was set

12 Pate’s Progress – Autumn 2012 known illustration of the Pate’s schoolroom. It is interesting to note the inclusion, in very the centre, of a bowl containing apples and a knot of birch branches. A clue Pate's Grammar School for Girls 1939-1986 to the Elizabethan reportedly designed and built using the school philosophy of most modern building materials and reward and punishment technology of the time, lasted only until employed perhaps? 1995 when they had to be demolished. Little is known of the The long anticipated merger of the two very early history of schools, discussed intermittently since Pate’s Grammar School. around 1964, finally became a reality The first headmaster in 1986. The four form intake of girls was Christopher Ocland. Rev Dr E R Humphreys (Headmaster 1852-1859) and boys respectively was reduced to He and subsequent become a mixed intake of four forms heads established the reputation of the school so firmly that per year. Changes to the uniform had numbers increased dramatically. However, the eighteenth century to be agreed to amalgamate the two. saw a serious decline. Fewer and fewer pupils attended so that For example, the new blazer badge by 1800 there were just three! There had been no development incorporated the lion from the boys’ of the original curriculum, as laid down by Richard Pate, and the badge with the “PGS” from the girls’. headmaster was still paid £16 per annum. In the years 1819-51 Amongst other changes, the new houses Cheltenham Parish Vestry successfully sued Corpus Christi College of Beaufort, Gloucester, Richmond and Miss Helen Heatley (Headmistress 1905-1911) for neglect of Pate’s Foundation, especially the Grammar School. York, named after the Dukes thereof, A new head, Rev. Dr. E R Humphreys, was appointed in 1852 and were established. Since then we have seen Pate’s Grammar School continue to Cheltenham Grammar School 1889-1965 grow from strength to strength in academic, sporting and musical fields. Whilst we pride ourselves on being a thoroughly modern school at the forefront of education we should be mindful of our history and reflect on all that has shaped us into the unique school we are today.

under his leadership the school again grew to over one hundred pupils including some boarders. In 1886 the original building was Cheltenham Grammar School 1965-1995 demolished and replaced at a cost of £11,000. This provided for three hundred pupils though eventually held over seven hundred. There is more detail about our school history available on It was not until 1904 that Pate’s Grammar School for Girls was the website: www.pates.gloucs.sch.uk. Donations of material founded. Originally sited in Livorno Lodge and later, from 1939, at for inclusion in the archive are always gratefully received, e.g. Albert Road, the school opened on January 17th, 1905, with eighty- copies of school magazines, photographs, pieces of work or other two girls and five members of staff. The first Headmistress was memorabilia. Please email us: [email protected]. We Miss Helen Heatley, MA, and it was she who chose the motto of are also interested to know what our alumni have been doing since the school: Honestas non Honores or Honourable conduct not worldly leaving school and are happy to welcome visitors. honours, a reflection of her personal philosophy. Cheltenham Grammar School moved out of the centre of Cheltenham in 1965 to the present site. The new buildings,

Livorno Lodge

Pate’s Progress – Autumn 2012 13 Languages Parlez-vous français? he Year 10 French exchange this year provided fun, laughter Tand new friendships as well as improved linguistic skills. After a long bus journey, we arrived at College Jacques Prévert near Bordeaux at 6am and were greeted by host families and partners. We spent the weekend getting to know our families, going on trips with them and experiencing their way of life. Although daunting, I found this a great way to bring to life a language I had previously only studied. My hosts were supportive and encouraging, though they did call me Mr Bean when I had to resort to hand signals to communicate! it is so important to the area. We were also allowed a small taste Monday morning saw the whole group (English and French of the final product, which perhaps explains the singsong on the students) back together for our first trip, to the Bassin walk back to the school! d’Arcachon. This was my favourite trip, with the opportunity to One evening I helped my host family in the kitchen of the see around 30 kids run down Europe’s largest sand dune in 30 primary school where my partner’s mother is a teacher, enabling degree heat under a clear blue sky – with most ending up in a pile me to use another common language – hard work – and to see at the bottom! French in a new context. Though a couple of old ladies described One memory that will stay with me for a while is when a few me as a ‘star’ (they knew how to get me to do the washing up!) I boys, both French and English, sat on the edge of the port of La can’t yet quite rival Jean Christophe Novelli. Rochelle and ate ice creams in the sunshine. For a change there On our final night in France pupils, host parents and teachers was no need to say anything – we were just enjoying the moment. shared a meal at the school, giving us a chance to say our Across the mixed group, there was one common language: preliminary goodbyes and take an awful lot of photos (see sport. With England and France playing soon after our departure, Facebook for evidence!). It was the final shared highlight of a there was much footballing banter traded back and forth. The trip fantastic experience. Although daunting, I’d definitely recommend also helped us to see the French kids in a new light. When they a language exchange: it provides the opportunity to extend your visited us in England, many had been very quiet and shy – but their language skills, to experience life almost as a ‘local’, and make new characters blossomed back in France, and good friendships were friends for life – but with English friends close by. A big thank you made. to Madame Attwood and Monsieur Head for escorting us. Merci, The English pupils enjoyed a trip to the picturesque Chateau de c’était fantastique! la Grave vineyard, learning about the production of wine, and why George Hall 10Y English Andrew Peters’ Visit

Years 7 and 8 had a fun-packed TPM when they had a visit from author, poet, didgeridoo-player and all-round entertainer Andrew Peters. He had the energy of a rabbit as he bounded across the hall answering questions. I admired his work and how he could write in lots of different styles; a sad moving story about his father to a funny poem about his gerbil He then went on to talk about his book “Ravenswood” and the climbing inside a trouser process of writing and publishing it. It was very interesting to find press. (Harriet Hards) out what it was like to be an author. (Samuel Thomson)

Andrew Peters was a tall man who was very funny. He was I thought he was laid back and was a really funny a stand-up comedy person with a great type guy who was personality. He’s also very loud. I wasn’t great at playing the expecting this at all. didgeridoo. Personally, (Mattie Park) I’d love to have him From the moment he began, Mr Peters back again! involved his audience, making jokes, (Shrey Bhardwaj) amusing pupils and reading fabulous poetry. (George Clist-Woodward)

14 Pate’s Progress – Autumn 2012 Outdoor Education eam work makes the dream work” as I tell the students – Year 8 Camp Louise Turner “Tand also remind myself as we approach the busy season. Not that the rest of the year has been quiet: Years 7 and 8 On the 24th June, 8B and 8G embraced TPM Bushcraft with great enthusiasm, and First Aid followed closely by 8R and 8Y, training carries on throughout the year. Our Community Sports along with staff and sixth form Leaders completed a packed one day course to gain their HSE helpers, set off for the Forest Emergency First Aid at Work qualification and some additional of Dean to take part in a 48 work on Sports injuries, so we can all feel safer – though given hour camp as part of the PE the vigour with which they practised their chest compressions, curriculum. They participated in perhaps you might get gentler handling from Vinnie Jones instead! many activities from canoeing and kayaking, to climbing, as well Our brilliant Clay Pigeon shooters also braved the weather at as team-building and a nature walk. Canoeing and kayaking was the Ian Coley Shooting school, where we provide instruction using enjoyed by all, whether or not they had ever been near a boat their ground facilities. Another year of training and we might be before, and many games were played along the River Wye as well ready for our first competitions. as learning basic strokes. The team-building involved games and activities that aimed to teach and develop skills of teamwork, leadership and co- operation and finished off with learning how to cook pancakes on a camping stove. The nature walk gave the year 8s a chance to explore the Forest of Dean, while learning vital bushcraft skills, for example which plants are edible and which are poisonous. Finally, climbing was an opportunity to scale a rock face in the forest itself. Alongside all these activities the Year 8s were also able to participate in general camp activities such as cooking for themselves and doing the washing up, teaching valuable life-skills. The camp was enjoyed by all receiving comments including “It should be longer”, “Do we have to go home?” and “Is there another camp next year?”. I hope this camp has inspired our Year 8s to get involved in outdoor adventure activities and I thoroughly Dedication to Sport, GB hopeful, Charlotte Sayers hope I will be helping out again next year! Rebecca MacDuff, 12Y2

TPM Bushcraft HSE First Aid CCF

A big thank you to the volunteers and senior Cadets who make CCF happen every week; I am delighted that for the first time in at least 15 years the CCF is fully staffed. However, parents’ help is always welcome. Thanks to anyone able to offer assistance; once CRB checks are complete, we will do our Leaving Senior Cadet, Tom O’Dell at Annual Inspection best to put you to good use!

Duke of Edinburgh’s Award

Gold D of E Training Bronze D of E Training

Pate’s Progress – Autumn 2012 15 Other News Pate’s Students carry the Olympic Torch A former student and two current pupils all had the honour of taking part in the Olympic Torch relay around the UK. Will Paulson carried the torch in Bristol, George Livingstone- Thompson (2011 leaver) carried it in Gloucester Docks and Alex Chantler-Mayne carried it in Wickhamford. An amazing opportunity to be part of a once-in-a-lifetime event.

Sport Relief 2012 Who knew there were so many ways to travel a mile? Organised or stacked together. It felt good for the whole school to be on by the Charity Committee, the whole school poured out on to the field together to enjoy one of the first (and last!) warm, spring the field to complete their mile, many in fancy dress, others tied days of the year and a whopping £1600 was raised for Sport Relief.

Fantastic Jubilee Celebrations in And what fantastic results: burgers, cakes, trifles and even Food Tech homemade bread, all decorated with union jacks and washed Year 8 rose magnificently to the challenge of cooking a jubilee down with a selection of fruit smoothies and lashings of fresh themed lunch, working in groups and using the skills acquired lemonade. throughout the term to produce a festive feast. A feast truly fit for the Queen!

16 Pate’s Progress – Autumn 2012 Congratulations Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award

Edward Noble, a 2009 Leaver, was recently awarded his Gold DofE Award at St James’ Palace by Prince Philip. Award winners also heard an inspiring and very entertaining talk about taking opportunities from Charlie Boorman, the adventurer who travelled round the world on a motorbike with actor Ewan McGregor.

Leadership and Community

Students in Year 8 are encouraged Sam Sharma at Corpus to explore ideas of leadership, community To Sam Sharma in Year 12, who won first prize in the national and teamwork. This Classics Essay Competition run by Corpus Christi College, year they also had Cambridge – up against stiff competition from other Year 12s the opportunity to from hundreds of schools across the country. His essay ‘Does put their learning the Decline and Fall of Ancient Empires Have Anything to Teach into practice through the Modern World?’ secured first prize, a visit to Cambridge to local community collect his award and a cheque for £100. partnerships, in a ‘Leadership and Community’ programme. In December pupils put on an afternoon of Christmas entertainment for local elderly residents and primary school pupils; Spring brought the chance to work with Cheltenham Borough Homes, looking at issues of social housing and community regeneration in Hester’s Way. The

Developed & Summer term saw our hard-working Year 8s devise an ‘Olympic recommended themed’ event – music, drama, language and dance workshops – by Pate’s! i TUTORMATHS for KS2 pupils at St Thomas More primary school. LIVE ONLINE TUITION

Reach for A* GCSE Maths! 93% Pate’s students improved on their predicted Netball spans the ages! grade with iTutorMaths! At the recent AGM of Old Chelts Netball Club it was great to see past and present Patesians well represented! Live online and interactive GCSE maths tuition tailored Pate’s has a longstanding link with Old Chelts Netball Club, and to your exam board for intensive end of term revision in many Pate’s students who return to Gloucestershire to work, October 2012. Six 1-hour tutorials over 3 weeks. after graduating, also return to the club. Several of those pictured were Award winners on the night! Free Places & Offers Pictured with Caroline Mackenzie: - 10 free places for Pate’s students on a first-come, Current students – Rebecca Haggie, Poppie Compton, first-serve basis. Charlotte Thomas, Sophie Goodrum, Gemma Ford. - Additional discounted places available. Alumni – Leanda Morris, Claire Johnson Malvern, Kate Hayter. Full price: £99

Contact us now to register or speak to Mr Bowen 0845 038 0017 or [email protected] For more information please get in touch or visit www.itutormaths.co.uk

Pate’s Progress – Autumn 2012 17 Parents’ Association The gym was packed with Fundraising 2011/12 the varied delights of Year 7 and 8 stalls; from Smash a Spud Jubilee Ball – 1st October – to Fortune Telling, Chocolate Fountain, Cake Decorating, a Raised £3560 Mario Kart competition and many, many more. Thank you to The Ball celebrated 25 years of Pate’s Grammar School opening as everyone for making the day such a a mixed grammar school on the site of the former boys’ grammar. huge success. Nearly 250 guests enjoyed the wonderful weather, drinks reception, raffle, auction, dinner, live entertainment and dancing at . The next Pate’s ball, ‘The Snow Ball’, is on 2nd February 2013 at the Racecourse. PA Quiz Night – 23rd March – Raised £650 100 Club – Raised over £5600 With prizes, puzzles and puddings, and a hall full of competitors, a The ever popular 100 Club goes from strength to strength. There great time was had by all. This is a monthly draw for £100 and a bonus £1000 draw in June each time, each round was named after year. This costs just £5 per month per share, payable by standing a London Underground Station. order. Further details are on the Parents’ Association page of the Questions were wide-ranging and Pate’s website. suitable for the whole family. Annual Spring Fair and Draw Easyfundraising and Easysearch – – 17th March – Raised £500 Raised £6000 It’s very simple - just visit www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/ patesgs/ to register and shop with over 2000 well known retailers Crowds of supporters were out for like Amazon, John Lewis and M&S. Whenever you buy something, the Spring Fair, packed with pupils, the retailer makes a donation to Pate’s. It’s that simple and it really parents, friends and teachers alike. does work. It won't cost you a penny extra and you can even save It was a lovely social occasion with money with special offers and voucher codes. We encourage all plenty of high quality stalls and parents and readers to use it. So far we have already raised almost fantastic raffle prizes. The main hall £500 for our school. hummed with atmosphere and super music, while guests enjoyed tea and delicious cakes. Many Mother’s Day To all volunteers, cake bakers, helpers, customers, party- gifts were purchased. goers, donors and all others involved in any way – this couldn’t have been achieved without you! Thank you! Parents’ Association Purchases for Pate’s

£25,000 to fund the cost of refurbishing an IT classroom. The Flip Cams revamped classroom opened during the Summer Term 2012. Many Pate’s students will benefit from the PA purchase of ten new Flip Cams and memory cards, costing around £900. The Flip camera is simple to use, and the film is easy to transfer to the computer. The school already had three similar cameras, used almost daily for Charity events, in preparing for assemblies and in lessons: filming assessments or practical work in areas as diverse as science and languages. IT Classroom Refurbishment Pate’s has made huge improvements to the school IT infrastructure in recent years, but there is always more to do to ensure technology is kept fast and up to date, to support and enhance the educational experience for all pupils across many If you’d like to be more involved with the work of the PA, subjects. The Parents’ Association took great pleasure in donating please contact [email protected]

18 Pate’s Progress – Autumn 2012 Alumni

An excerpt from ‘Breakfast for a Penny’ by Robert Leopold Mr Robert Leopold … in 1924 [Mum and Dad] bought another shop at 141 High Street. This was a small business called Gallops who made a local delicacy called ‘dripping cakes’. This was a most popular (Cheltenham Grammar School sticky greasy sweet bun made in sheets that cut up into 1935–1943) 40 pieces. With this business came some staff and the all- important knowledge of how to make these horrifically fattening t was a real pleasure to be able to welcome Mr and Mrs Robert articles. Cecil Randall who was one of the bakers at Gallops ILeopold of the Leopold Bakery to our Jubilee Leavers’ Concert. went on to work for Leopolds until about 1960 when he retired. Robert, who recently made a very generous donation to Pate’s, Father marketed these as ‘Breakfast for a Penny’ and they said that watching the amazing talent on show at the concert became a cornerstone of the business. At the peak 80 trays reassured him that he had invested his money in the right place. a day were made and sold although nowadays these delicacies Inevitably the conversation then came round to ‘drippers’, so would be looked on with horror as they were full of fat and after the concert he kindly provided school with a copy of his sugar. However these dripping cakes contained all the necessary work ‘Breakfast for a Penny’ – a fascinating history of the Leopold goodness to sustain a person working for a morning and were Bakery: very cheap at a penny. I do not know when it started but the janitor at the Grammar School a Mr Morris used to buy four trays a day to sell to the boys and make a few pence for himself. This went on until the school was rebuilt in …

Dan Bishop Mrs Sheila Simkins (2010 leaver) – (Pate’s Grammar School for Girls Best Newcomer 1938 to 1945) After reading the last edition of Pate’s Progress, Mrs Simkins made Award a very generous donation to the school; we are extremely grateful We were delighted to hear that Dan for her kindness. It was fantastic to be able to welcome Sheila Bishop was awarded the prize of to the Jubilee Leavers’ Concert, where she recounted some Best Newcomer at the University of memories of what she used to get up to at the Pump Room as a Surrey. Well done Dan! small child – probably better not to be published in Pate’s Progress!

Buckie Hockey Cup She presented the Buckie Cup for the first time in March 2012, and was delighted that the winners were Richmond (the ‘red’ Rosemary Donnelly (nee Buck) has kindly donated a prize for the house) as Rosemary had herself been a member of the ‘red’ house winners of the Pate’s Senior Girls House Hockey Tournament. – though known in her time at school as Saxons.

Buckie Hockey Cup Presentation Buckie Hockey Cup Winners – Richmond, with Rosemary

All former pupils are welcome to attend school concerts and shows. Please keep an eye on the school website (www.pates.gloucs.sch.uk) for details of forthcoming events, or join us for one of our Reunions. In 2013 we’ll be welcoming back particularly those who left in 2003 and 2008 to an event at Pate’s on 6th July 2013. For more details or to book event tickets – or if you would like to arrange an individual visit to school – please contact [email protected] or call 01242 538283. We look forward to welcoming you!

Pate’s Progress – Autumn 2012 19 The John Elvan Rees Award

Pate’s Progress has previously (Autumn 2011) described plans to establish the John Elvan Rees Award. It was with great delight that we welcomed the friends and family of the late John Rees to witness the first presentation of the award, at this year’s Silver Jubilee Leavers’ Concert. Many of John’s family are former pupils of either Pate’s Grammar School for Girls or Cheltenham Grammar School, so it was a real honour to be able to welcome them all back. Kate Billimore, John’s partner, made a moving speech in his honour and presented this first Award to Abigail Waterman, for her outstanding progress as a flautist and her unfailingly helpful and supportive manner. John’s family were also pleased to witness the presentation of the Brian Jones Award at the same event, as John and Brian were in the same band during their time at CGS. Thanks to these awards, the two old friends will be remembered together for years to come.

LETTER from AMERICA We recently heard from Mike Morecroft, who left Cheltenham Grammar School in 1957. Mike now lives in the USA and we hope that the next time he books a flight to the UK we might persuade him to pop in and see us. He very kindly sent over some interesting photos, including the CGS Cross-country Team shown below and items for our archives. Excerpts from his inspiring letter are included below.

I love it when people boast to me about their old school. “I $500 million US kitchen appliance leader. went to Marlborough”, “Really? I went to Charterhouse”. When My career has taken me around the world and has been fun, I add, “I went to Tesco’s” it’s a good conversation starter … or challenging and rewarding reminding me that ‘If you enjoy what stopper. Yes, I went to the old Cheltenham Grammar School you do you will never work a day in your life.” in the High Street which became a supermarket just a few I have found that hard work, focus and a questioning mind years after I left. The buildings were cramped & musty with will get you the success you deserve There is an infinite supply dark corridors & even darker corners but it was a fun place. At of opportunity out there: keep looking for it; become as qualified morning break a volunteer would make the illegal run to the as you can; and take bold, brave moves. Always focus on the bake shop for the drippers. task in hand and complete it to the best of your ability, because I left CGS to study Physical Chemistry at University College, that is what earns promotions. Cardiff. Emerging with a BSc and PhD, I joined a plastics Work hard, treat others with more respect than you expect company in Essex (BXL), and married Joan (who I had met and above all be eternally inquisitive. Have a wonderful life and in college). Forty-five years on Joan and I are still together. a rewarding career. My relationship with BXL was rather shorter: with the Thank you, thank you, Pate’s company in difficulty, I moved to Birmingham to become Chief Chemist in a domestic appliance company. This was my first step in a forty year career in kitchen appliances – moving from Chemist through Quality Control, Design Engineering, Industrial Design and Manufacturing to senior management. In 1986 I had the opportunity to join a company that was acquiring an American appliance company, and I joined without hesitation. One year later I went to the US for six weeks, and never really came back. My first role was as Vice President of Engineering, initially in Connecticut then via a period in North Carolina to my current (retired) location in Richmond Virginia. My job changed several times with mergers & acquisitions until finally in 2001 I got the job in “the corner office” as President & CEO of Hamilton Beach Brands, a

20 Pate’s Progress – Autumn 2012 The Patesian Players The Patesian Players was formed in 2011 by a dozen 21st century leavers. The company has so far produced two successful shows, with more planned for the coming year, starting with a Noel Coward comedy in September. Simon Lewis of the Gloucestershire Echo penned the following review of The Patesian Players’ second production: Ibsen’s ‘Hedda Gabler’, performed at the Parabola Arts Centre in April 2012. “One of the tragedies of women is that their willpower tends to remain underdeveloped” claimed Norwegian dramatist Henrik Ibsen and, as if to belie this belief, he created the headstrong heroine of his dark 1890 work Hedda Gabler. Director Rory O’Sullivan has assembled a pool of exceptionally gifted actors, all former pupils of Pate’s Grammar School, and fashioned a hugely absorbing production. Whilst preserving the spirit of the original, this new adaptation by the director renders the text far more accessible, benefitting this taut, well- crafted production, which is a masterclass in sharply defined characterisation and first class diction. The supremely capable cast was strong and convincing throughout. Naina Nightingale imbued the role of Aunt Juliana with great dignity and Susie Bagnall provided welcome touches of humour as the maid, whilst Gemma Wheeler and Chris Carter ran the full gamut of lovers’ emotions. Monty Kimball-Evans’ studied portrayal of the affable academic husband to Hedda was thrilling and Freddie Pope added gravitas as the sinister and unprincipled Judge Brack. Rosie Breckon’s tour-de-force performance in the title role was riveting. This is clearly a troupe that will deservedly make its mark on the Cheltenham theatre scene in years to come. If you are interested in becoming involved with The Patesian Players in any capacity, acting or non-acting, please contact us at: [email protected]

Pate’s Progress – Autumn 2012 21 Sport CRICKET 2012 Despite the disappointing weather, many cricket matches were played with much success spread through the year groups. In their first season the U12s lost a tied game by wickets lost in the county cup semi-final. The U15s had an outstanding season, winning the County Cup and represented Gloucestershire in the South West Finals, narrowly losing to . During cricket week the weather turned for the week and allowed all games to be played in near sunshine. The Headmaster’s XI saw seven from Pate’s welcomed back including Sam Coote (Hatherley and Reddings 1st XI capt), Andrew Carson (Pate’s 1st XI capt 2011) and Matthew Smith (professional footballer at Oldham FC). The MCC game was just as challenging after Andrew Carson scored a quick 50 to set school a tough total. On both occasions the 1st XI batted courageously and managed to retain their wickets for hard- fought draws. With the marquee and pitch still looking outstanding the final 1st XI game of the week was won against the touring Carey Grammar School from Melbourne with players ranging from Years 9 to 13. Girls cricket at Pate’s continues to grow following on from a successful indoor season and an exciting game on the grass square against Hereford Cathedral School during cricket week.

DISTRICT ATHLETICS 2012 REPRESENTATIVE ATHLETICS All athletics teams have continued their success of previous 2012 years. At the Cheltenham Championships the Year 7 Boys won comfortably with some outstanding performances, particular After the success of six Pate’s athletes representing note to the relay team who broke a District record from 1989. Gloucestershire at the South West Championships Mel Bird (Year Combined with the Year 8 team the overall Boys’ Minors 8) and Will Paulson (Year 12) were both selected to compete in Championships Shield returned to Pate’s for the 14th year running. the National Championships which was shown live on SKY TV. An amazing achievement! Both Pate’s athletes were a year young in their age groups, Mel The Year 9 team was pushed into second place by Cheltenham finishing 6th in the junior discus and Will finishing 7th in the senior College but combined with a good, girls’ performance, also 1500m. The results bode well for next season! runners-up, Pate’s won the overall trophy. Girls’ teams in Year 7 and 8 then held off extremely strong competition from Cleeve and the Ladies College to win the overall trophy at the Girls’ Minors, with the Year 7’s winning their team event, just as the boys had done! District Swimming Gala and Water Polo It was another successful year for Pate’s at the annual ENGLISH SCHOOLS Cheltenham District Swimming Gala, with many fantastic individual performances including Sophie Whitehead (Year 8) ATHLETICS 2012 and Ben Sarachi (Year 7) setting new district records. Equally All four Pate’s teams qualified for the South West Regional Finals impressive were the team results: the Year 7 girls’ medley relay by scoring sufficient points in the County Round, where the boys’ team set a new district record; and both Year 7 and Year 9 boys’ teams were placed 1st in both competitions. They then had to face teams won the competition for their age group. With great the top teams from the South West, ranging from Cornwall to swimming and team work, Pate’s boys went on to win the overall Berkshire and Hampshire. boys’ competition for the second year running, despite not having The Junior Boys and Inter Girls travelled to Exeter Arena for entered a single senior swimmer. the B final and had a great day of competition, finishing 4th and 6th Finally, we entered a respectively. Top Pate’s athletes of the day were Alex Karpathios, Pate’s water polo team for Sophie Maxwell and Beth Griffin. the Gloucestershire School The Junior Girls and Inter Boys had the exciting prospect Games, run in celebration of competing in the A final at Millfield School. The standard of of the Olympics. The boys athletics was outstanding which brought out the best in the Pate’s excelled (despite some playing athletes, with Mel Bird and Joe Gare scoring very highly. The the game for the first time!) Junior Girls were placed 7th and the Inter Boys challenged all the and ended up joint second way but finished 4th. in the competition behind Congratulations to all athletes for competing in South West the vastly experienced Regional Finals, some for the 4th year running. Cheltenham College team.

22 Pate’s Progress – Autumn 2012 Junior netball teams HOCKEY successes It has been a great hockey season with our 1st XI, U15 and U12 teams all unbeaten. Pate’s U13s scoop a trio of Netball cups! The 1st X1 won the U18 district tournament (a ‘round robin’ The U13 netball team capped a highly successful season – which competition), displaying excellent hockey, great team spirit and included winning all their games at the PGL netball weekend some outstanding individual performances. at Liddington, and winning the Cheltenham Ladies’ College Representative honours for Junior Regional Performance Invitational Tournament. Centres (JRPC) were won by U15s Ayesha Markham and Megan Mather, and U18s Hannah Sanderson, Ellie Taylor and Nick Chittock. Finally, county hockey awards were made to Nick Chittock and Hope Kent: Gloucestershire’s Junior Male and Female Players of the Year!

Pate’s 2012 It has been another successful year for boys’ football with all four Pate’s teams (1st, 2nd, U15 and U14) playing with skill and passion to produce some memorable results. The highlight was the U15 side, led by Mr Ellicott, reaching the final of the district league competition. There was also a fantastically competitive game between the 1st team and the Old Boys, with the first team winning on penalties.

Pate’s U14 team also excelled at the Dean Close Invitational end of season tournament in March, playing some of their best netball of the season against really difficult opposition. The tournament involved some of the strongest netball schools in Gloucestershire and Worcestershire – Chosen Hill (county tournament runners- up), King's Worcester, RGS Worcester and the hosts Dean Close – but excellent results put Pate's first in the group!

U13 Girls Cricket team Indoor County Champions! The girls U13 Cricket team have had a fantastic season, qualifying as County Champions to go forward to the Regional Finals of the Lady Taverners’ Indoor Cricket Competition, held in the splendid facilities of Exeter University. Competition was intense as they played four group matches against other South West County Winners. With the fate of teams potentially changing in the space of a single over, the PGS girls did really well to hold their nerve and concentration. Having Rugby County Cup tied on points at the top of the SW group with Dartmoor College, Runners up Pate’s won because they had scored just one more run in the competition than Dartmoor! The U14 Rugby County Cup Final at Kingsholm (home of The final stage was a match against Millfield (representing ) saw a previously unbeaten Pate’s Year 9 team Somerset). With the prize being the chance to progress to narrowly beaten by St Peter’s, Gloucester. It was a disappointing National Finals at end to a season which had seen the team win all of their previous Lord’s, the game 16 matches against strong opposition, including Cheltenham was tense and very College and competitive; sadly Bristol Grammar Millfield eventually School. But such prevailed, beating a successful our total with just year was an three balls remaining, appropriate but the girls can farewell to Mr be justly proud of Kingston in his their performance final year with and being regional Pate’s rugby. runners-up!

Pate’s Progress – Autumn 2012 23 Refectory

fter a year of construction and many more years of planning and fundraising, Autumn 2012 sees the official opening of our new £1.8M Amulti-purpose refectory and learning space. As well as much-needed dining space, two new classrooms and lecture space, the building can be used pavilion-style for weekend sports fixtures. The refectory uses a new cashless dining system, eliminating the need for ‘dinner money’ and reducing queuing time. Thank you to everyone who has contributed in any way to make this project a huge success.

Fundraising uring the Summer we completed the refectory project, looking towards our parents and our alumni, to add that final, Dupgraded an IT classroom, converted two undersized vital input allowing our students to benefit from the best possible classrooms into a full-size science laboratory and carried out a educational experience. multitude of other refurbishment projects. This is only possible We cannot hope to fund this essential work without your help. thanks to the generosity of the Pate’s Foundation and a wide range Please continue to support us, consider donating again if you of more recent donors – mainly parents and alumni who give have done so in the past or join our wonderful supporters it you directly or help by supporting our tireless Parents’ Association. have not already done so. We need each and every donation: the Thank you all for your continuing support! students in our care are worth every penny! However, the work goes on as we need to further invest in the fabric of the school and provide additional teaching and learning space, in line with agreed governor priorities drawn from How you can help the campus development plan. We are seeking support from Donations can be made online via our Virgin government grants and charitable trusts to continue to add to Money Giving site, or you can download a donation the classroom capacity of the school, enhance external access to form from the school website. Many companies the site and to improve our science facilities. We are delighted offer Payroll Giving, which makes giving to charity easy and to announce that we have secured a bid of £450,000 which will relatively painless – and some even fund-match employees’ help towards the building costs of a much needed classroom donations, which would be fantastic! The final way (literally!) you block adjacent to the Sports Hall, although we still need to find can help is by leaving a legacy in your will: a gift which ensures additional funds to meet the total costs. We have also secured you can make a positive contribution to the education of future £140,000 to improve access to the school, segregate pedestrians generations of young people, as well as making the burden of and vehicles, level uneven paving and improve signage. inheritance tax lighter. We will continue to work hard to seek, explore and bid for Please contact [email protected] (01242 538283) the additional funding needed and go the ‘extra-mile’ in a manner for any further information or to arrange a meeting if you would so often exemplified by our own students, but again we will be like to discuss further. Thank you. House Sponsors We gratefully acknowledge our House Sponsors Beaufort Gloucester Richmond York sponsored by sponsored by sponsored by sponsored by TVM Cheltenham Ltd Rickerbys (Cheltenham) Ltd Atchison Topeka Evans Jones LLP