OLD STOPS’

REVIEWISSUE 9 2019

PORTIA HUNT PG 11

MIKE CHRIS MARIANNE BAULKWILL BOWERS ELLIOTT Pg 4 Pg 8 Pg 14 OLD STOPS’ REVIEW OLD STOPS’ REVIEW Headmaster’s Welcome President’s IN THIS t is a huge privilege to be the Instead, education is about giving Schools are communities and the 54th Headmaster of Stockport young people a wide range of discipline of working with other Message ISSUE... Grammar School and I have experiences to inspire them and people, possessed of different views, greatlyI enjoyed getting to know about equipping them with the priorities and skills is another key staff, parents, pupils and Old motivation, study skills and character part of education. House events, 2018-19 2 HEADMASTER’S Stopfordians over the last few to learn effectively and follow their charitable fund-raising and the Tim Stretton pictured second from the left. months. The warmth of the school own ideas; of course, anyone capable School Council allow pupils to invest WELCOME community, the huge academic of this will have little difficulty in time and energy for the sake of a As I come to the end of my The Stopfordian Committee are ambition and the enthusiasm for mastering a public examination larger entity than themselves and 3 PRESIDENT’S term in office as President of very keen and open to suggestions excellence in extra-curricular syllabus. It is clear from the stories find how much more ‘we’ can achieve The Old Stopfordians’ Association, for new events or venues. If you MESSAGE 2018-19 activities are obvious. of Old Stopfordians highlighted compared to just ‘I’. I cannot believe how quickly the have any ideas, let us know. in the coming pages that public two years have passed – a sure 4 MIKE BAULKWILL Since September the pupils have In 2018 we were lucky enough examination success opens sign that the time has been both “Education is not thought about the importance of five to enjoy the setting of The 6 ALBERT JOHNSTON opportunity for the next stage of life, busy and enjoyable. Over the key character attributes, how they Goldsmiths’ Hall for our Summer the filling of a pail, and is essential, but it is character course of the past 12 months AWARDS benefit us in life and can be developed: Reunion – so relevant to our and skills, derived partly from I have had opportunities to revisit but rather the education, that ensure success in life. history. An evening reception 6 TRAVEL 1. Enthusiasm: approaching many of the events I had enjoyed enabled many who live in the activities or tasks with optimism, the previous year but also many AWARD WINNER lighting of a fire.” Seen through this lens, co-curricular south or are constrained by work energy and excitement. new and varied occasions. activities are more than just pursuits to join together for a few hours to 7 FROM THE HELM This quotation is usually attributed for the enthusiasts; they offer the 2. Grit: persevering with things As always, the Music department enjoy drinks, canapés and explore chance for pupils to uncover and 8 CHRIS BOWERS to WB Yeats although it has none of when they are difficult and is very strong with concerts for all the Livery Hall, Drawing and the slow and beautiful lyricism that develop new talents and learn skills picking yourself up after levels of ability. This year’s Spring Exhibition rooms. I certainly 9 PERSEPHONE characterises his poetry. A more that will often transfer to other areas set-backs (Vincit Qui Patitur). Concert at the Royal Northern enjoyed seeing people I had not plausible attribution is to Plutarch, of life. College of Music was wonderful. met for years and combined it HOTCHKIES 3. Curiosity: being interested the 1st century Greek philosopher with a day out in the capital. in things for their own sake and There continues to be a broad range 10 PORTIA HUNT and biographer, who hoped to noticing patterns and anomalies of activities for all pupils to In line with tradition, the Old encourage people to ignite their own and asking great questions. participate in from sport and Stopfordian Dinner took place on intellect and think confidently for outdoor pursuits to drama and art. the evening of Founder’s Day. themselves. Whatever the origin 4. Community Ethos: My thanks to everybody for inviting This year’s dinner was as always, of the phrase, it is hard to argue being grateful, being interested WHERE me to attend. a very enjoyable and convivial with the sentiment; education is in the achievements of others evening. It also provided the ARE THEY not merely about mastering a and in serving others. Being an Old Stopfordian, hopefully opportunity to introduce the NOW? series of facts and ideas to be does not mean one feels old, rather 5. Social Intelligence: new Old Stopfordian President – PG 12 assessed through a written one feels proud of being part of being aware of the feelings and Mr Graham Earles. I wish him all examination that tests memory Stockport Grammar School’s motivations of others and using the best for the coming year. as much as understanding. heritage and still feels involved, to these insights to cooperate and whatever degree, in its future. For June heralds the annual Reunion to navigate social situations. 16 SPORTING this reason, as an association we Barbecue held in the Main Quad. HIGHLIGHTS I think that the School’s founder took the decision to embrace a new Last year was well attended and Edmund Shaa would have been chapter and rebrand in the form of blessed by fine weather. It aims to 18 OLD STOPS’ EVENTS delighted by our appreciation of The Stopfordian Committee, set up get together particular year groups ROUND UP character. A man who rose from in conjunction with the school and but is also the perfect occasion for apprentice Goldsmith to membership its External Relations department. anybody to arrange a visit. 20 SGS HIGHLIGHTS of the Privy Council and was able to The External Relations department navigate the choppy political waters Alumni are now dispersed far and are always keen to hear from 22 ANNOUNCEMENTS of the end of the Wars of the Roses, wide across the country and globe. former pupils or staff with their with such a deft touch, would have Reunions are a wonderful way to latest news. Visit the school website 24 DATES FOR demonstrated all of these traits. meet and catch up outside your or email via externalrelations@ YOUR DIARY Edmund Shaa’s school continues immediate friendship circle. stockportgrammar.co.uk or to offer real education to its pupils. give them a call on 0161 419 2408. Dr Paul Owen Headmaster Tim Stretton (OS 1982)

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Mike Baulkwill OS 1988

Mike Baulkwill has led an exciting career as a pilot in the Royal Air Force. Most recently, in his role as Station Commander at Coningsby, he flew a Hurricane aircraft on the RAF 100 Flypast over London to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Royal Air Force.

Throughout his distinguished so once the idea for the flypast The feeling of pride across the What path did you take after How did your time at SGS help Share with us your fondest career in the RAF, Mike has had was agreed, I knew that our Station whole station of 3,400 people was leaving SGS? prepare you for the exciting life memories of your career so far. the opportunity to travel the world. would be providing most of the immense, we ensured that the 22 I wanted to study engineering and you’ve had? One of many that springs to mind, He continues to enjoy his role in the Typhoon aircraft and almost all Typhoon aircraft RAF 100 formation I was interested in maths so I thoroughly enjoyed my time at is my first landing back on HMS services and last summer he had the of the Battle of Britain Memorial and the Battle of Britain were fully Aeronautical Engineering at Bristol SGS, the school gave me the Illustrious in the Gulf following my privilege of flying a Spitfire, adding Flight aircraft. trained and ready to go. That said, hit the mark. Whilst at university I chance to take part in a broad first operational sortie over Iraq. to his list of flown planes which what made it even more demanding met up with my cousin who was by range of activities, from the Choral I was a new Harrier pilot at the time As the Station Commander, I did already includes Harriers, F16s, was that we had a squadron then a pilot in the United States Air Society run by Mr Towers to cricket and to land back onto the ship as the have a choice to either fly a Typhoon Typhoons, Spitfires and the deployed on operations, flying Force. He encouraged me to look tours run by Mr Dunkerley. The number eight aircraft behind seven or fly a Hurricane. I elected for the Hurricane. operational missions over Iraq and into joining the Royal Air Force and support and hard work given by the others was challenging to say the latter since so few pilots get to fly Syria as well providing 24/7 Quick so whilst at Bristol I joined the highly professional set of teachers least. Coming to the hover alongside them and on the 100th anniversary Can you tell us about your role Reaction Alert aircraft at Coningsby University Air Squadron and took was impressive and this coupled and then moving across to the deck of the Royal Air Force, to fly this in the RAF 100 Flypast. for defence of the UK. It was a team my first steps into becoming a with those broadening opportunities with seven other Harriers on the iconic World War Two fighter seemed Royal Air Force Coningsby is the effort throughout and the station pilot. Now, some 27 years later taught me about service, small deck ahead was both an amazing privilege. largest Typhoon base and home to delivered outstanding success. I’m still loving it. professionalism and commitment demanding and slightly daunting. the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, – three key parts of being a fighter I landed safely but had definitely pilot in the Royal Air Force. used up a few heartbeats whilst watching the fuel reduce at an impressive rate with nowhere else to land.

“I flew a Spitfire for the first time last summer. The joy of flying this historic aircraft was simply mind-blowing and never to be forgotten. The opportunity to fly a single seat WW2 fighter with so much history and importance was a true honour, a pilot’s delight to fly, with crisp handling and impressive power, I could see why it had such relevance during the War.”

4 5 OLD STOPS’ REVIEW OLD STOPS’ REVIEW New judges join From the Helm At the AGM on Thursday 10 May For several years the committee has So how will this work? Albert Johnston 2018, the committee of the Old found it increasingly difficult to There is to be a new Stopfordian Stopfordians’ Association voted recruit new members locally who Committee chaired by the External Award panel to dissolve the Association and have been able to commit to Relations Director. This will be an to combine its activities with the meetings and the organisation of advisory committee and External Relations department events and activities. recommendations would be of the school. considered by the External Relations A second factor is the way in which Committee of the school. This decision marked the end of communication methods have Membership will not require election several years of discussion and changed and the provision of time and attendance will be open to any deliberation in which various and resources needed to keep in alumni, former parents, staff, options were explored. regular touch. This has proved an Governors and the Head Boy and increasingly difficult issue for the Head Girl. Needless to say the final decision Association Committee to resolve. was taken with heavy hearts but In 1992, when a simple computer There will not be a structure of with the knowledge that in its new database of members was Officers but members may take Two previous winners of the Albert Johnston Travel Award form the committee could extend introduced, it was in effect just an responsibility for specific areas such the opportunities for Stopfordians to will be joining the Award’s judging panel next year. electronic version of Richard as finance, particular age groups or maintain the friendships and contacts Reeman’s card index. In those days, geographical areas. The flexible Hayley Shepherd (OS 2007), who She now works for a start-up brand After working for an anthropologist made during their time at SGS. and until 1998, membership was membership of this committee is travelled to Jordan and Jerusalem purpose consultancy, which has doing ethnographic research in It would also continue to encourage voluntary and the numbers involved designed to facilitate a range of when she received the award has clients such as Mars and L’Oréal hard-to-reach communities, he former pupils to support the activities were substantially fewer. views and ideas from all those who very fond memories of the experience and she has just been made moved back into the public sector of the school in the way it had would wish to contribute. and is excited to watch other pupils ‘Head of People’. and worked on user-centred service A third factor is that, over recent always done. In influencing the get similar opportunities. design in gangs’ services, sexual years, the External Relations Meetings will be held termly with one decision, a number of factors were Oliver Hopwood (OS 2003) health, social care and housing. department have been increasingly of these taking place on the day of Since leaving SGS, she has graduated from Warwick University taken into account. providing much of the administration the Retirements and Reunion graduated from Durham University with a BA in French and German and Most recently, Oliver moved into One very significant factor has been for Stopfordian events, continually Barbecue (or a similar event) so that where she read Ancient History and went on to work in children’s services teaching, he trained in the East demographic. For many years, the improving methods of communication former pupils can contribute their after working a ski season, Hayley in central London implementing the End at Mulberry School for Girls number of Stopfordians remaining in, in a very effective and professional ideas in person. gained an advertising graduate Every Child Matters agenda. and has now started at Westminster way and organising increasingly or returning to, the Stockport area There will continue to be a President placement at Mullen Lowe. teaching French, German and Arabic. popular Summer Reunions. has dwindled as exciting of Old Stopfordians who will have a The department now has the staff opportunities have seen alumni tenure of up to 2 years and the and resources to deliver information scatter across the UK and beyond. committee will continue to organise Greek adventures to our former pupils in a way that the Annual Dinner. The financial The effect of this has been two-fold. the OS Committee could not begin affairs of the old Association will be for travel award winner to replicate. For a long time the Football and transferred to the school, but any Upper Sixth student Aidan Hall is looking forward to visiting Lacrosse clubs, life blood of the So we bring to a close an Association money will be held in a separate Association, able to recruit new which has been very successful in its account and allocated to specific Athens and the Saronic Islands this summer to explore members to the committee and own right, as well as a substantial projects determined by the a modern European city and the birth place of Western provide a ready source of officers, no ally and supporter of the school, but committee. longer exist and while the Golf introduce a new arrangement which analytical philosophical and political ideas after winning Best wishes Society still manages to field teams will build on strong foundations and this year’s Albert Johnston Travel Award. for competitions, its numbers too are look to the future. Stuart Helm, Archivist falling. The London Branch of the (Former Head of Art) Aidan, who has an academic interest Whilst in Athens he will visit OSA regretfully called time on its in Philosophy and Politics and a the Parthenon, the Temple of Annual Dinner due to low numbers. curiosity for Greek and Southern Olympian Zeus, Aristotle’s European culture, will examine the Lyceum, the National Garden, significance of the capital city’s place various agoras and the suburb as a model for modern democracies of Plaka, the oldest district around the world. in Athens.

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Persephone Hotchkies (OS 2018)

Persephone Hotchkies (OS 2018) left SGS just a short while ago to study English Chris Literature at Durham University and now Bowers she’s already producing a play called ‘Bedlam’ which will be performed in (OS 1983) August at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Chris Bowers has travelled the world as a BBC World Service correspondent, The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is Rooted in history, Bedlam follows Persephone and the rest of the cast one of the biggest celebrations the journey of a subversive young and crew have worked extremely he’s become a champion for human rights and most recently he’s taken on a of arts and culture on the planet woman as she uses her deep hard at this play in Durham and challenging role as the political adviser for Chevron. and thousands of visitors flock to friendships with other patients to would love for as many people as the city to take in the delightful cultivate the beginnings of a possible to see it. Whilst at SGS he had a busy school After making a business connection Then I made the move back to strands of creativity. revolution. In her attempts to disrupt Persephone is part of the Wrong life. Cycling the 8.5 miles from his at the reunion, Chris started his London where I started working the asylum’s rigorous orders, she Tree Theatre, you can find them house to the school each way, Chris journalism training and wrote as deputy head of the Middle Whilst at SGS, Persephone took brings them into danger of even on Facebook. got involved with all aspects of the for the Manchester Evening News East Group and then HM Consul advantage of the wide variety of more horrific treatment. school including theatre, featuring before making the leap to broadcast General in Erbil, Iraqi Kurdistan. co-curricular activities available. in the school performance of Arthur journalism. Working backstage at school “The reason I switched from Miller’s ‘The Crucible’ and football productions, joining the highly During his time with the BBC, Chris being a journalist is that “I co-directed and with the Old Stops. He was successful Young Enterprise team navigated war-torn countries where although you can report and tell successfully awarded the Albert and taking part in Model United produced the Lower he reported on historic events stories, you don’t necessarily Johnston Travel Award where he Nations, she made great friends and including the fall of Kabul to the affect or influence change.” Sixth play-in-a- travelled to Greece – the trip helped could explore her passions for Mujahideen. Then following the theatre and creativity. spur on his enthusiasm for travel. He is now in London advising week in 2017, collapse of the Soviet Union, he set Chris then went on to study at Chevron, a US oil and gas major up and reported from the first BBC She said: “I co-directed and which proved to Edinburgh University. company, on political issues that office in Central Asia, in Tashkent produced the Lower Sixth play- might affect company business in be an immensely He said: “When I graduated from from 1992-1993. in-a-week in 2017, which proved Europe, Eurasia and the Middle East. to be an immensely useful and useful and fun way university, I spent a year not His career then took a new path fun way of learning the basics knowing what I wanted to do. when he was recruited by the UN He commented: “I have nothing of putting on a play. I also of learning the What I did know was that I liked Refugee Agency (UNHCR). This led but happy memories from my politics, writing and telling a had a minor role in helping basics of putting to a harrowing 18 months working time at SGS. The teaching and “In terms of playwrights a big story. I also aspired to travel backstage in the school in Rwanda after the 1994 genocide, ethos was superb and perhaps on a play.” inspiration is probably Arthur and live abroad.” production of ‘Annie’.” before re-locating to UNHCR’s HQ most importantly the friends Miller as every play I have seen I made in the Sixth Form have in Geneva. ‘Bedlam’ is set to immerse audiences or read of his has been so become friends for life.” She said: “I’m excited not only to effortlessly thought-provoking But it was a chance From there he went on to join the in the infamous Victorian asylum, go to the Fringe for the first time, and multi-faceted; something British Foreign Office with HM where identity becomes a distant meeting at an SGS but also to be able to say that which I wish every show that I Diplomatic Service in 2000. memory in cycles of routine and reunion that set him on human cruelty. I’m helping to put on a work on can similarly harbour. He explains: “I worked on human the path to become a participating show. It’s definitely But I’m also incredibly grateful rights and did four years at the going to be hard work getting for all my English Literature successful correspondent British Embassy in Moscow our image out there, but it’s a teachers in SGS inspiring me to for the BBC. running the internal political challenge I’m ready to take on.” pursue English at university. “ team and then the commercial service team. 8 9 OLD STOPS’ REVIEW OLD STOPS’ REVIEW Portia Hunt has worked around the globe as a freelance photographer capturing shots of globally renowned Fashion Shows and for fashion powerhouses. But for the future Portia hopes to apply her science background to work in food security and humanitarian aid – as well as keeping up the photography.

What is your current role and What do you enjoy about What are your fondest memories what does it involve? your job? of SGS? I’m currently finishing my Masters For me, it’s all about the people. I have many cherished memories degree in Natural Sciences at the I love being able to work with people from my time at SGS thanks to the University of Leeds – but aside from who come from many different emphasis placed on extra-curricular my studies, I freelance as a backgrounds, from all over the world, activity alongside academic photographer. The majority of my and who converse in a multitude of development. I significantly work so far has involved documenting languages. The fashion industry is improved my French speaking skills backstage at Fashion Week in London surprisingly more diverse than the on a work experience trip to Lille, and Paris – in-house for designers, stereotypical view of haute couture and the Music Tour to Barcelona was such as Dries Van Noten, Peter Pilotto – although of course it still has a way a definite highlight. and Schiaparelli, and for magazines, to go. As someone who is naturally such as T Magazine and Purple. quite reserved, photography has Were you part of any clubs or compelled me to break out of my productions whilst at SGS? How long have you worked as a comfort zone in a way that I wouldn’t I played netball and tennis in my first photographer? Is it something necessarily have done. few years at SGS, before spending you’d always wanted to do? more time on the music side of My first fashion week commission things – playing drums and was in 2015. However, it’s only in percussion in Big Band, Jazz Band the past couple of years that jobs “I strongly believe and Concert Band, and singing in have become much more frequent. that you make Chorus. I was the Set Design team Photography as a job was never leader for the school’s production of something that I set out to do. your own luck.” Oliver!, which was a very rewarding We got a new family camera in my and enjoyable opportunity. mid-teens, which I slowly commandeered as my own – taking photos at local Describe some of your career Do you have any words of band nights and asking friends to highlights so far. wisdom for those that want Portia model for me. I’m interested in The best project I’ve worked on so to enter your industry? documenting people, the fact that it far came this April, when I was sent I strongly believe that you make now pays too is a welcome bonus. to the south of France to document your own luck. Breaking into the Hunt Hyères International Festival of creative industry notoriously requires (OS 2014) Tell me how you came to be Fashion and Photography for an element of good fortune, but a fashion photographer. Mercedes-Benz Fashion. It was one equally it requires making the most Serendipitous circumstances of the most visually inspiring places of the opportunities that arise. catapulted me into the madness of that I’ve visited – a curation of Be friendly, speak to people, be fashion week photography. I was in emerging creative talent located in a interested in what they do, assist London trying my hand at shooting beautiful modernist villa, situated on other photographers, do favours and street style and by chance I got a hill overlooking the Mediterranean. above all, be willing to put in some chatting to a backstage photographer. Other career highlights include my hard graft. The opportunity arose to assist first in-house haute couture job backstage and I couldn’t turn it photographing Schiaparelli’s Spring down. I managed to take a few shots 2019 show and photographing View Portia’s portfolio by visiting of my own, and later sent them to a backstage at the Prada headquarters www.portiahunt.com or find her few magazines asking if they required in Milan for W magazine. on Instagram - @portiamaae a photographer for the following season. I got one reply, and the whirlwind of new experiences, new friendships, and lots of hastened trial-and-error learning progressed from there. 10 11 OLD STOPS’ REVIEW OLD STOPS’ REVIEW Matthew Fresco Festival Rosamond Old Stopfordian Natasha Sofla - Composer (OS 2013) and Vanessa WHERE (OS 1998) White - Violinist have co-founded the new music event Festival Fresco. Is now the Chief Financial Officer Festival Fresco brought the highest quality music to the heart of at SEMA 4 Genomic – a health Altrincham’s community. From classical, to contemporary, to jazz, it had information company dedicated something for everyone. ARE THEY to improving the diagnostic, The festival’s programme consisted of five concerts, showcasing talent from treatment and prevention of the Royal Northern College of Music, Chetham’s School of Music, young disease through deep data analysis. local musicians, some of Manchester’s top ensembles and the best upcoming composers from Manchester and beyond. NOW? Having studied Politics and Economics at Bristol University, Matthew went on to gain an MBA Louise Turner from New York University at the STERN School of Business. (OS 2000) Before joining SEMA 4 Genomics, Has joined social media giant, Matthew spent 10 years at Professor Facebook, as Lead Litigation Counsel PriceWaterhouse Cooper (PwC) for EMEA in order to specialise in as a Director in Healthcare Strategy Colin Powell media and technology law. before pursuing a career as the Director of Finance and Business (OS 1979) Louise has built an impressive Development for the Learn Institute portfolio of work in media law since of Genomics and Multiscale Biology. Having left school in 1979, Professor she graduated from Manchester Colin Powell attended Manchester University with a first in History. He now lives in New York with University to study medicine and his wife Victoria whom he met continued his love of lacrosse. Following her degree, she has whilst studying at Bristol University graduated with a Diploma in Law, and his two young children Sam After completing his training in an LPC and a Diploma in Media Law. and Libby. Manchester and Sheffield, Colin She joins the billion-pound social secured a prestigious Respiratory media platform following time in Fellowship at The Royal Children’s private practice law as a media Hospital in Melbourne, Australia. litigator at RPC. Following his time working as a Louis Bloom Consultant in Melbourne, Colin Thea Hudson Stephen Wilson returned to the UK in 2002 and set (OS 1994) up a unit in The Noah’s Ark Children’s (OS 2015) (OS 1994) Hospital for Wales in Cardiff. In 2018, Louis was appointed as After 35 years working in the NHS, & Hannah Recently sold his Microsoft software President of Island Records UK Colin has gone on to become and services company which has after spending 16 years working Professor of Children’s Health for Worthington gained a £40m turnover to one of at the label. Cornell University and consultant the world’s largest IT companies - at the largest children’s hospital in (OS 2006) DXC Technology. Announcing his appointment to the new role, the record label praised the Middle East. The Fit as a Fiddle Festival is the Before selling his company, Stephen Bloom’s strong track record of success. brain child of these two Old Stops. He said: “My wife and I have had grown the business to have He will now lead a restructured team The now annual festival features two kids, one grandchild, one more than 450 employees that into a new era at the label. dog, one cat and I never want yoga, meditation and fitness. were spread over five countries – to retire. Stockport Grammar Last year the festival partnered UK, Ireland, US, Saudi Arabia During his career at Island, including School was a great place, with MOVE charity – for children and and Jordan. eight years as head of A&R, Bloom young people diagnosed with cancer. has signed globally successful artists I loved it and it truly set me Stephen has thanked SGS for the including Mumford & Sons, Ben up for life.” Pictured above is Thea Hudson being valuable education he received. Howard and Hozier. photographed by fellow OS Portia Hunt for OS Gwen Harris’s degree show.

12 13 OLD STOPS’ REVIEW OLD STOPS’ REVIEW OS theatre Samuel director named Wright for honour (OS 1999) Acclaimed Theatre Director Following on from the success of Marianne Elliott (OS 1985) has her production of War Horse at The After graduating with a Masters in Mechanical received the high honour of an OBE National Theatre, Marianne went on for services to the theatre. to open the show on Broadway. Ian Hall Engineering in 2003, Sam entered the Royal Air Whilst attending SGS, Marianne Force (RAF) and has been deployed to locations Marianne, who was one of the first enjoyed Art as well as English and ( ) girls to join the Sixth Form at SGS OS 1983 all around the globe. after a teacher told her that no one has gone on to have a hugely is born with a gift, they learn it – successful career and she is now the Ian Hall has had global adventures, Now based at RAF Waddington Some of his fondest memories of she was inspired to perfect her craft. artistic director of Elliott & Harper Determination has set up City and Cheshire Properties in Lincoln with his family, SGS include Saturday home game This determination has seen her Productions. seen her become based in Didsbury and has continued Sam is a Squadron Leader for match days, the ‘legendary’ 1999 become the first woman to win two to be an active Old Stop. the Sentinel Surveillance Aircraft South Africa Rugby Tour and After studying Drama at Hull Tony awards for direction. Communications Engineering Mr Cross’s re-enactment of the the first woman After leaving SGS, he went on to University, she went on to work in Authority. They are responsible last hours in Hitler’s Berlin Bunker Amongst her growing number study Land Management at Reading the media before eventually setting to win two Tony for delivering satellite during a History lesson. of accolades, Marianne has and Estate management at up her own fringe theatre company. awards for direction. communications capability and won two Tony Awards for Portsmouth before joining EMAP He explained: “SGS helped me airborne network datalinks - Based on its success, she secured her work as a Director on publishing group’s Estates prepare for the challenges of think Wifi for military aircraft. jobs at The Open Air Theatre and War Horse and the famous department. He then joined The adult life by instilling a sense Manchester’s Royal Exchange before production of The Curious Elliott Partnership, commercial Over the past decade he has of working hard whether that moving to London, where she Incident of the Dog in the agents in Manchester dealing with spent time around Europe, in was at your subjects, sport or became an Associate at the Royal Night-Time. office lettings, investment and the USA and has been deployed co-curricular activities. We Court and then the National Theatre development. at numerous locations in the were encouraged to do as for ten years. It’s now been 20 years since he set Middle East and Afghanistan. many different things as up City and Cheshire Properties and possible, and to respect “I have spent most of my time in that time, Ian has been involved everyone.” conducting maintenance and in a number of high profile airworthiness of Typhoon fast Travelling the globe with the RAF developments including the Waitrose jet combat aircraft and recently has given Sam a lot of rewarding at Broadheath Altrincham. finished a tour as the Senior experiences to draw on but one of Outside of work, he has completed Engineer on number II (Army his biggest career highlights so far a series of challenges. In 2016 Cooperation) Squadron, the involved working in Kandahar he came 60th out of 220 in the oldest and most senior Airfield in Afghanistan. 18 day Trans-Atlantic ARC race Squadron in the RAF. If you “Whilst there I was responsible from Gran Canaria to St Lucia. saw the RAF100 flypast, you for engineering and logistics will have seen some of my Twenty years prior to that he during the British final aircraft and my pilots flying,” successfully climbed the tough 5,895 withdrawal from Helmand said Sam. metres Kilimanjaro. Ian is a current and Kandahar province on parent at SGS and now enjoys taking During his time at SGS, Sam took Operation HERRICK. his children to the Lake District for advantage of the wide range of A particularly rewarding aspect hiking trips. opportunities available. He enjoyed of this was working with the He said: “It was great to see Dave Maths, Physics, Biology and History local Afghan school and Fire Martin my old geography teacher as well as becoming a skilled Service to recycle and re-use at Parents’ Evenings a couple of Loosehead Prop and Flanker for all of the surplus office years ago and I regularly attend the Rugby team. supplies and stationery,” the Old Stops’ events. I certainly he explained. got the travel bug from school and travelled round Australia for three months in 2010/2011 seeing England win the Ashes.”

Ian is pictured above, third from the right at an 14 Old Stops cricket match which he organised. 15 OLD STOPS’ REVIEW OLD STOPS’ REVIEW Memorial Cup raises Sporting Highlights thousands for charity In September 2018, former SGS Hundreds of spectators turn out to The cup match celebrates Ben’s life and Manchester Grammar School support the game which was first and continues to raise thousands for pupils took to the pitch to play for held in 2015 and is played in memory Young Minds, a charity committed to Holly’s Hockey The Ben Stollery Cup at Stockport of Old Stopfordian Ben Stollery. improving the well-being and mental GB Success Rugby Club. health of children and young people.

Congratulations to former pupil Holly Hunt (OS 2015), who has been selected in the Great Britain Hockey women’s squad. Earlier this year she attended a three- match series in sunny Alicante with Great Britain’s Elite Development Programme.

She explains: “She was three times a “I am absolutely delighted National Finalist and to be included in the scored several of the goals squad for the first group when we were crowned of Pro League games. champions. Whilst at Stockport Grammar School “Having been involved she played her club hockey in the Elite Development for the National League Programme for the past side – Bowdon Hightown couple of months it – and was awarded the was a big surprise to Young Player of the Year then be selected for Award by the Hockey the senior team, sportswriters’ panel. however I am really Netballer continues excellence England Rugby looking forward to the “We are now delighted and Former pupil Leah Allcock (OS 2015) has been nominated in Sevens Squad challenge and hoping proud to see her chosen the Continued Outstanding Contribution to Sporting Excellence to learn a lot for the full England squad, category for Netball at the Saints Sport - University of triumph throughout the trip.” her England shirts hang St Andrews sports awards. George Chatterton proudly in school.” Sharon Withington, (OS 2017) Head of Hockey at was selected for the SGS, said: England Sevens squad “Holly was an for the final round of outstanding and the 2018 Rugby Europe very influential Sevens Grand Prix player whilst Series which took place at Stockport in Lódź in Poland on Grammar 8-9 September. School. She England topped was selected their pool with two for the First victories and went XI whilst on to finish seventh still in the in the final stage. Under 14s. Well done to George and the team.

George Chatterton whilst at SGS

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Bursary Golf Day a hit Stopping By Twenty three teams of keen golfers Old took to the course at Stockport Golf Club for the annual Stockport Old Stop gives Grammar School Bursary Golf Day in Stops’ association with Brewin Dolphin. engineering insight Old Stopfordian Yusuf Ramzan (OS 2009) gave pupils an Events insight into his career as he gave a talk entitled ‘Working as a Round Software Engineer’. The Thales employee talked to pupils about designing, coding and up bug-fixing security software for Pupils new and old honour fallen submarines, airlines and satellites. soldiers in Remembrance Day services He also described how he was fortunate enough to receive an Almost 100 Old Stopfordians The group of Old Stopfordians were apprenticeship, which meant he Founder’s Day returned to Stockport Grammar joined by current Fifth and Sixth was studying and working at School for a Remembrance Day Form pupils; Hazel Grove MP, William The Bursary Golf Day, the same time. celebrations service to commemorate the brave Wragg; Cheadle MP, Mary Robinson now in its 15th Year Chaplain to the Queen and to the men and women who have lost their and Stockport Deputy Mayor, Cllr House of Commons, Reverend lives in the line of duty. Wendy Meikle on Friday, November 9 donates all of the day’s for the service. Prebendary Rose Hudson-Wilkin Pupils from the Junior and Senior profits to supporting the Learning about joined pupils, staff, governors and School also marked the occasion with Senior School Headmaster, Dr Paul Bursary Fund, this year Old Stopfordians at St George’s separate Remembrance Day services. Owen, led the service whilst School Humanities… Church for the annual celebration of Chaplain Rev. L E Leaver led the raising £9,500. We welcomed back Old Stopfordian the foundation of the school by service prayers. Sophia Swindlehurst (OS 2016) this Sir Edmond Shaa in 1487. Reunion 2018 year. She spoke to pupils about On the evening of Founder’s Day In June 2018 we saw the coming what it’s like to study Humanities. there was a fantastic turn out Carol Service full of festival sparkle together of Old Stops, Stockport Sophia is currently studying by Old Stops for the annual Grammar staff and friends of the A magical musical term of concerts and recitals came to a close with a philosophy and classics at Old Stopfordians’ Dinner. school for our annual summer barbecue. wonderful carol service at St George’s Church. New College of the Humanities The evening brought together pupils, parents, governors, staff and Held in the quad with a wonderfully in London and is set to graduate Old Stopfordians for an evening of congregational carols, readings by sunny backdrop, the event marked this summer. pupils and performances by the school’s choral groups. reunions for the classes of 2013, 2008, 1988 and 1968, and was an opportunity for staff and visitors to say goodbye to members of staff leaving the school at the end of the How to land academic year. This included long your dream job serving teachers Tony Cheslett (Maths) and Ruth Groves (Food It was fabulous to see Old Stop Technology) as well as Senior School Ollie Cartlidge (OS 2012) back in Headmaster, Andrew Chicken. school advising our pupils on how to land their dream job.

Ollie is currently working as a Formula One Race Strategist for McLaren F1 as part of their graduate scheme.

18 19 OLD STOPS’ REVIEW OLD STOPS’ REVIEW SGS Highlights

STEM Day inspires Junior School pupils Year 3 and 4 pupils enjoyed a day Sixth Form engaging in activities involving Science, Technology, Engineering Developments announced and Maths (STEM). The day began with Poppy S’s (Y3H) mum, Mrs Helen Saunders, Strategic SGS is excited to announce a spaces for the students and Magical production Communications Manager at Cisco Spectacular Spring Concert significant development of Sixth contribute to the school’s excellent of ‘A Midsummer Form facilities. academic record. Systems, talking to the children about at the RNCM engineering in the real world. Night’s Dream’ A glass roof for the current Sixth Form The school will be consulting with Two dazzling performances of The annual Spring Concert was held at the prestigious Royal Northern College quad will allow the development of a current and future Sixth Form The children then took part in Shakespeare’s comedy ‘A Midsummer of Music in Manchester this year, where over 100 pupils delighted the large, modern and well-equipped students on the detailed design of various activities that required Night’s Dream’ brought together the audience with an evening of exceptional music. social space for Lower and Upper Sixth the new spaces to ensure that the them to think logically, from building talents of over 60 actors and dancers Form students – further promoting the facilities are state of the art. the tallest structure to making a String Orchestra got the show underway with a splendid performance of three from across the Senior School. sense of community that underpins helicopter and from transferring movements from the St Paul’s Suite by Holst. Subject to planning approval and the success of the school. water without spilling it to creating The wonderful performance was The first half closed with an exceptional performance of the 2nd and 3rd technical considerations, the project chemical reactions. The children were supported by the hardworking movements of Shostakovich’s piano concerto no. 2 by Upper Sixth pupil Alex Existing facilities will also be should be completed in 2020. encouraged to solve problems and pupils in the behind the scenes Pollard accompanied by First Orchestra. developed to provide enhanced study think of solutions – placing them in team, made up of makeup artists, Popular girl’s vocal group The MayHemiolas then stepped out to perform an situations experienced by engineers, backstage helpers and set designers eight part a cappella piece, Ave Maria by Holst. Junior Chamber Choir gave a scientists and mathematicians. as well as lighting and sound crew. wonderful performance of three songs with a trumpet solo from Patrick Owen. Double win for Niamh Johnson performed a solo on the flugelhorn of The Girl With the Flaxen ‘SGS Historian’ This year, every age group throughout Hair by Debussy. the school has taken part in fun STEM A historical magazine created by activities, from robotic mice in Pre- Chorus brought the evening to a rousing close with a barnstorming Lower Sixth pupils in the History Reception to a Year 6 project to build performance of Bob Chilcott’s A Little Jazz Mass. Department has scooped a Young and programme LEGO robots. Historian Award for the second year running. Triumphant The latest edition of ‘SGS Historian’ Rugby Season which focusses on ‘Nine Takes on Imperialism around the World’ has Stockport Grammar School’s rugby been named joint ‘Best School players have won the Under 16 History Magazine’ by the acclaimed Cheshire Cup bringing an The team involved in creating the Young Historian Project. outstanding season of challenging magazine are Lydia Horne, Kitty games to a fitting end. The magazine contains a book review Grant, Anna Davies, Grace Patterson. of Robert Harris’s ‘Fatherland’, a Hannah Stead, Alex Billingham, The boys faced some talented Junior School Mr Wheeler is also the Chair of the He said: “The letter informing report on the History department’s Victoria Massie, Basmah Ali, Oliver schools during their Cheshire Cup Little Princess Trust, a charity that me that I was to be awarded trip to Westminster and a host of Helme and Bryony White. campaign with a last-gasp drop Head receives provides real hair wigs to children and an MBE came as an enormous articles on the topic of ‘Imperialism’. goal sealing a dramatic comeback Queen’s Honour young people with hair loss, and funds surprise. I have always against Bridgewater High School vital research into childhood cancer. considered it a great privilege and an outstanding performance The Headmaster of Stockport to be involved in education and against St Ambrose College. Grammar Junior School, Mr Tim In addition, he is a Trustee of the to be able to contribute to the On top of this victory, more than Wheeler, has been awarded an IAPS charity, iTrust, which provides work of an amazing charity, 20 of the school’s rugby players MBE for services to charity and to bursaries to support children who the Little Princess Trust.” have recently been selected for education in the Queen’s Birthday wouldn’t otherwise be able to attend teams and training groups at club Honours List. independent schools and helps teachers in hardship. and county level.

20 21 OLD STOPS’ REVIEW OLD STOPS’ REVIEW Announcements Memorial Weddings Jim Swallow (Former Head of Mathematics) Stockport Grammar School was saddened to receive the news that Mr Swallow, former Head of Mathematics, passed away on October 13, 2018.

A Memorial Service was held “Mr Swallow has been “Perhaps his greatest for Jim on November 14 a really dedicated contribution to us, outside at Norbury Parish Church. mathematician and his teaching, has been the inspiring teacher. His foundation of the Wasdale Of all the tributes to Jim Swallow lessons never had a dull camps and traditions. On on his retirement, one of the moment. He has always top of that he has been on Holly Rebecca Dunning (OS 2005) most heartfelt was written by inspired tremendous loyalty seven trips to Corsica, has (nee Harling) got married on former Head Girl, Sarah Vernon from his Sixth Form, accompanied Mr Towers on the same day as the Royal (OS 1990). especially the further a music tour of the USA and Wedding on May 19th 2018 to mathematicians. He joined has sung in the school choir. Congratulations to Helen She wrote: Thomas Dunning. “One of Mr Swallow’s Warren House in 1963.” On behalf of the whole Lammas (OS 2008) who qualities is that he is so school, past and present, wed Daniel Starkey on June The happy couple wed at “If I read out his sporting may I say THANK YOU, quiet and unassuming, that 16th 2018. St Christopher’s Church in Pott contributions to the school, Mr Swallow – you will be many pupils do not realise you will wonder how he Shrigley followed by a reception greatly missed.” The wedding was attended by what an outstanding asset had time to teach. He has at the family farm in Rainow. many Old Stop 2008 leavers he has been to the school. been in charge of tennis Many former schoolmates from who took great delight in their He became Head of and badminton, taught SGS attended the wedding. SGS umbrellas. Mathematics in 1963, life-saving at Stockport After SGS Holly studied handing over to Mr Boulding baths and has been greatly Geography at The University in 1987 so that he could involved in chess.” devote his last years of Birmingham gaining a first solely to teaching Maths. class honours degree. She is now Head of UK Retail Sales Christien Mott (OS 2007) Former SGS teacher Kim Bridges at Lotus and lives in Macclesfield Deaths celebrated his one year wedding wed Tony Cooper after moving to with her husband, rescue dog anniversary in September 2018. East Sussex to be nearer her family. Jack Hadfield David Seddon (OS 1961) Peter Alexander Holliday and about 8 horses which she competes across the country. May 9th 2019 (OS 1948) He married Amy Mott at Wadhurst She was joined at the wedding Terrence Lockett September 20th 2018 Castle in Kent after the pair met by Ruth Groves, Jan Turner, Lillian Smith (OS 1950) (School Cook 1991-2019) November 24th 2018 Thomas N Mumford whilst at Cambridge University. Gill Lockwood, Carol Beckett, Bev Meakin, Chris Muscutt and (OS 1946) Christien is part of the senior Peter Aneurin Rowan Geoffrey Harrison September 18th 2018 Jane Gilbert. (OS 1956) (OS 1946) management team at Accenture April 7th 2019 November 13th 2018 James Hilton Ramsay in London and Amy works for the (OS 1945) British Government. Ron Sharp (OS 1956) Peter Wilkinson (OS 1952) September 10th 2018 April 4th 2019 October 11th 2018 Alan Eric Fantom David G Mayers (OS 1961) Richard John Parker (OS 1959) March 1st 2019 (OS 1974) June 29th 2018 Rowena Foxwell (OS 1988) Roy Siddons (OS 1954) January 27th 2019 September 20th 2018

22 23 Dates for your Diary We want to hear Remembrance Reunion Ad Hoc Reunions Monday 11th November 2019 Over recent years we have hosted from you! a number of smaller groups who Stopfordian Committee wanted to visit the school. If you would like to pop back for a tour, meeting This year’s edition of OSR is a gathering or to meet up with jam-packed full of exciting 6.30pm, old friends or teachers – contact news of Old Stops and I Monday 18th November 2019 the External Relations Team on am very grateful to Enfys 0161 419 2408 / externalrelations@ Bosworth, Rebecca Shawcross Carol Service stockportgrammar.co.uk and and Holly Robison for bringing 7pm, St George’s Church we will be pleased to arrange together so many inspiring Tuesday 10th December 2019 something for you. and interesting stories. Please continue to keep in touch and SGS Sports Reunion Old Stopfordians’ Dinner share your news. We’re always Would you be interested in delighted to arrange a tour 7pm, attending an SGS Sports Reunion? round school, help organise Friday 13th March 2020 If you would like to participate – a reunion or welcome you please contact Alumni & External back at one of the many Old Summer Reunion Relations Officer Rebecca Stop events. Barbecue Shawcross at ShawcrossR@ 12 noon – 3pm, stockportgrammar.co.uk The Stockport Grammar Saturday 20th June 2020 community is so much stronger thanks to the support of Old Stops – Careers Days, the Careers Convention and Work Experience are just some of Can you help? the ways current pupils benefit from your experience – if you The Bursary Fund provides means- Supporting the fund allows us to think you can help, please let tested assistance so that local make a tangible and profound us know. children whose families cannot difference to the education and afford the fees can benefit from life chances of young people from All Old Stops are warmly the excellent education we offer. disadvantaged backgrounds. Please invited to attend the new Each year we receive far more help if you can. Further details are Stopfordian Committee applications for assistance than available on the website and from meetings. Thank you to we have funds available. Rachel Horsford, on 0161 419 2408 or everyone who has attended [email protected] this year and helped us to build stronger and better connections with and between Old Stops. We hope to see you at a meeting soon!

Rachel Horsford, External Relations Director

STOCKPORT GRAMMAR SCHOOL

Stockport Grammar School Buxton Road Stockport SK2 7AF Telephone: 0161 456 9000 Email: [email protected] www.stockportgrammar.co.uk

If you no longer wish to receive a copy of Old Stops’ Review, please let us know by emailing: [email protected] Stockport Grammar School is a Registered Charity Number 1120199

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