downsidE DIARY ISSUE 25 – 2019-20

A YEAR OF STRENGTH downsidE DIARY CONTENTS 2019-20

REGULARS

04 EDITORIAL 24 EPQs 40 TEACHER PROFILE: TOP BRASS Welcome from the Head Master ‘Is dementia, specifically Alzheimer’s Meet the Head of Academic Music – Disease, a uniquely human disorder?’ – Jonathan Bridges 06 AT THE TOP one of the EPQ titles from this year’s Our new Heads of School Lower Sixth 44 FROM THE ARCHIVES: Strength Through Adversity 08 OG MEDAL 30 MEETING MR RAWLINS Meet this year’s winner of the OG medal Into la cage du lion – Sixth Former Joe 46 MIXED MEDIA – Fr Timothy Radcliffe (S63) interviews our Head of Languages A selection of the GCSE and A level art submissions 18 REFLECTIONS 39 ROOM OF OUR OWN 30 years at Downside: House Master Why the Weld Café is a hub 66 FROM THE ARCHIVES: Simon Potter reflects… for pupils Gregorian Boarding Before Zoom

SPECIAL FEATURES

10 A LEVEL ADDED VALUE 38 BEYOND DOWNSIDE 62 TESSERA How Downside adds value at Sixth Form How the wider School community Celebrating intellectual exploration and supported the Upper Sixth in their final discovery for their own sake – find out 12 STAYING HOME FOR VICTORY term at Downside more about the academic journal written Marking the 75th Anniversary of VE Day by our pupils 50 TEDx: IDEAS WORTH 16 CREATIVE EDUCATION TALKING ABOUT 65 NEW CHAIR OF GOVERNORS Meet our Artist-in-Residence, The Heads of School bring TEDx Introducing Dr Giles Mercer Holly Warburton to Downside 68 SPORTS ON LOCKDOWN 26 VIRTUAL SCHOOLING 52 EDUCATION FOR SUSTAINABLE Supporting, guiding and inspiring the The Editorial Team Virtual learning and living DEVELOPMENT Downside community in their love during lockdown How Downside is getting actively of sport EDITOR PHOTOGRAPHY Downside parents who would like to obtain involved with the UN’s programme Beck Ward Murphy Rooster Marketing, Merille Ryder, Dan copies of the photographs in this edition 28 THESE GIRLS CAN! for sustainability 74 CARE IN A CRISIS [email protected] McLean, Beck Ward Murphy, Katie Walker should contact the Marketing Office: Emily Chapman on making physical Claire Murphy discusses pastoral care +44 (0)1761 235151 CREATIVE DIRECTOR PRINT 56 FUTURE PROOF FOOD [email protected] activity and sport accessible and during lockdown – and beyond Tim Mercer Gemini West, Bristol enjoyable for all our Downside girls Our partnership between sustainability [email protected] gemini-print.co.uk/west Admissions: 76 SCHOOL PARTNERSHIPS +44 (0)1761 235103 and nutrition from Downside’s award- DESIGN © 2020 Downside School [email protected] 37 A RICH DIVERSITY winning catering team Sharing and learning together with Reuben Wakeman at Mercer Design Stratton-on-the-Fosse, Somerset, BA3 4RJ The importance of listening other schools www.mercerdesign.co.uk Registered Charity No: 1184700 www.downside.co.uk and acceptance FROM THE HEAD MASTER…

You know you are living in strange times when a Chilean protest slogan which reads: ‘We don’t want to former Governor of the Bank of England is quoted go back to ‘normal’ because ‘normal’ is the problem!’ saying ‘We’re all Leninists now!’ although, having heard Mark Carney interviewed subsequently, it’s clear he’s So, let’s not go back to ‘normal’, instead let’s go no Bolshevik, nor was he planning a coup to topple forward to a ‘new culture’, a ‘new way of doing our current political system. He was referring rather things around here’. Of course, this won’t happen to Lenin’s conception of history, when he famously overnight! There is no quick fix, nor are there any asserted ‘there are decades where nothing happens short cuts. It takes time. A marathon begins with and there are weeks where decades happen!’ a single step, and so must our journey. And what should be that first step? In recent years we have I can certainly attest to the fact that the rate of been encouraged by writers and journalists like change over a few short weeks earlier this year felt far Matthew Syed and Elizabeth Day to re-evaluate and greater and faster than anything I have experienced reframe our relationship with failure. I think ignorance during my previous five and a half decades. It’s been needs a similar makeover. Just as we have begun to quite a ride, a rollercoaster even, scary at times and accept that failure is the springboard to success, so pretty uncomfortable but also extremely exciting we would do well to appreciate that acknowledging and giving us a completely new perspective! It’s as if our ignorance is the essential precursor to acquiring someone had plugged the post code for Damascus knowledge. Rather than being fearful or embarrassed into our collective satnav and was giving us a once of our ignorance and constantly trying to conceal it in a lifetime opportunity to rethink and reset our (ironically, all too often, by making a display of our culture. By culture I mean ‘the way we do things limited knowledge), we should recognise it for what it around here’, and when I say OUR culture, I don’t is, the first vital step in our education. This is where mean just the culture of Downside, or the culture the novelty and uncertainty of recent times has been of our country or indeed that of the whole of Europe, liberating. It has given us permission to admit our I mean the culture of the whole world. ignorance and, to our surprise, rather than leading to weakness and collapse, it has built up our strength The extraordinary measures (I would say and provided the basis for an exhilarating level of unprecedented but it may take years for that word innovation and collaboration. to regain any meaning) which have been taken by governments around the world in reacting to the The passage of time is rapidly returning to normal and Coronavirus Pandemic have shown that fundamental soon a decade will again take the full ten years. Like change is possible where there is the political will. If St. Paul we must get back on our horse and continue we can have a global response to the threat of a virus, our journey, but like him we will be viewing the world then what about the other equally serious and deadly through new eyes. Let’s continue celebrating our threats we face, like climate change, global poverty, ignorance and indulging our curiosity. The terrain may and inequality brought about by discrimination. I’m remain challenging, but we are fitter and stronger for sure I’m not alone in craving some normality, but the journey and there is no telling what exciting and EDITORIAL at the same time find myself sympathising with the ambitious destinations await us.

4 Editorial Editorial 5 Katharina, Isabella House Georgia Bolton, Downside has allowed me to fulfil my potential, both academically and Head Girl 2019/20 AT THE personally. I am currently studying Latin, History and Mathematics, which Downside is an incredibly I enjoy very much due to the great academic environment of the School. special environment, and I am hoping to read Theology and Religion at university with the one where it is a privilege intention of pursuing a career in counter-terrorism. to be a student. To be able to learn, grow and make Downside provides a great variety of co-curricular activities. I most friendships in such a warming TOP enjoy those in which I get to serve my community and those in need. community gives each pupil a WE ARE DELIGHTED TO PRESENT THE NEW HEADS OF SCHOOL FOR THE NEW ACADEMIC YEAR 2020/21 – For me, the best part about Downside is the strong friendships I have sense of pride, one which will be carried throughout KATHARINA LÜTZENKIRCHEN AND NICHOLAS HOBBS. been able to build and the great environment that encourages you to life. To be Head Boy or Head Girl of such a remarkable become the best version of yourself. school is an honour, and one which should be embraced with arms wide open. I wish both Katharina and Nick “As Head of School I would like to give back to my community the sense of the best of luck, and all the happiness in their final year encouragement I have always felt during my time in Downside. I want to help at Downside. If I had one piece of advice it would be to everyone feel welcome and enable all pupils to get involved in activities that will grasp every opportunity that comes your way, and do make their experience at Downside worthwhile.” not be afraid to do something a little different. I have no doubt that you will both be great leaders of the School Nicholas, Smythe House taking it from strength to strength next year. During my four years at Downside I have learnt many valuable skills, not only in academics but also in co-curricular activities. Being part of such Mateusz Kapustka, a special community has allowed me to exceed my own expectations. Head Boy 2019/20 The School has encouraged me to challenge myself and to get the best I have spent just two out of every opportunity on offer. Being a part of various teams in years at Downside but sports has enabled me to form strong social connections with my peers, it has been the most develop my teamwork skills, to achieve success and to always try my enriching time I have ever very best. Being part of many lectio groups has allowed me to develop experienced in my life. my spiritual understanding and has brought me closer to God on a Coming from a completely personal level. different environment, I have been amazed by the great sense of community, life- Lectio was my route into the Benedictine ethos of the School; it led me long friendships and understanding which beams from to greater paths than just a normal education. Downside has taught me everyone I have met. Downside will be in my heart many skills which will provide me with the necessary tools to exceed forever as I am aware of how much of a positive impact expectations in later life. it has had on my personality and how it allowed me to develop as a student as well as a person. The biggest highlight of Downside so far has been the people I have met and social skills I have developed. Without my group of friends, I would I have to admit that I will be saddened as I move on not be the same person right now. I hope to transfer these social skills in my life and hopefully start university this autumn, into a medical career in the future, and to further my Catholic education. however I truly believe that Katharina and Nick will do their best as the new Heads of School for the “As Head of School I would like to make the most of this year, and provide approaching academic year. I would like to wish them all any member of the Downside community with a helping hand wherever it the best as during these unprecedented times as their may be. I would like to focus on the care of all pupils, and provide them with journey might not be a bed of roses – there will be a lot a comfortable environment to ensure they achieve the very best they can of obstacles they come across, but I know they will make during their time at Downside.” our community come back stronger and reunited.

Katharina Lützenkirchen Nicholas Hobbs

6 At the Top At the Top 7 This year the Old Gregorian Medal has been awarded to Fr Timothy Radcliffe (S63). is for many the way. Beauty has its own Ordained in 1971, Fr Timothy is a well-known and distinguished preacher and writer, authority, which attracts without imposition. the first Englishman to serve as Master of the Order of Preachers (Dominicans) and Then one can come to see the beauty of the founder of Dominican Volunteers International. our truth claims, and an orthodoxy which is OG MEDAL spacious, and the beauty of our moral vision Tell us about your journey from Smythe Benedictine great uncle, Dom John Lane Fox, which is liberating. to becoming a distinguished preacher and said that I might not be sufficiently intelligent writer. Which A levels did you opt to study? to be accepted! In this edition of the Downside Diary, What did you study at University? we’re exploring strength. During the I was blessed to study with two brilliant What was it like to be the first Englishman Covid-19 pandemic, what strengths have teachers. Dom Aelred Watkin taught to serve as Master of the Order of you relied upon? me history and John Coulson English. Preachers (Dominicans)? I have been sustained by friendship. During Dom Aelred taught us as if we were The Order must have been desperate! It lockdown friendship with the members of my undergraduates, and I am sure that is why was fascinating to live in such an international community has been vital. But also friendship so many of us from his small class became community. The 14 friars on the General with all sorts of people, as we Zoom, Skype, writers: Paul Crossley, a world expert on Council came from 14 nationalities, and email and phone, giving and receiving support medieval architecture; Richard Holmes; we were bound together by a profound from each other. All these relationships open the biographer of Shelley and Coleridge; friendship and mutual trust. Cardinal Cormac a tiny window into the eternal and equal Patrick Marnham who writes about French said to me, ‘Now you know how lonely it is friendship which is the very life of God. culture and literature, and so on. I joined the at the top’, but I have never felt less lonely. Dominican Order before going to Oxford, Travelling eight months a year for nine years What advice do you have for pupils as they where I read theology. was exhausting but exhilarating. set out on their journey? Don’t be afraid to engage profoundly with Your life and career have taken you down Tell us what it was like to be awarded people who have convictions different than many paths, what has been the most the Michael Ramsey Prize for theological one’s own. Communication may have gone memorable and why? writing, for your book What Is the Point of global but often people want to belong in I enormously enjoy the time that I spend in Being A Christian. communities of the likeminded. We are Iraq, working with my Dominican brothers I was very surprised. I never felt that I had a becoming tribalised, often influenced by the and sisters. I have been bowled over by chance of winning. When I arrived I glanced culture wars of America. The quality that I their schools, in which Muslims and Christian at the seating plan for lunch and assumed that most love in others is magnanimity, being big pupils study together, and by their courage whoever was placed next to the Archbishop souled! That requires an openness of heart in rebuilding them from scratch when they of Canterbury was going to be the winner and mind to those with whom you disagree. returned to the north of the country which and it wasn’t me! The prize gave me the Never dismiss another’s opinions as absurd had been occupied by ISIS. People from confidence to go on writing. or nonsensical. Even if one is convinced that Mesopotamia were present at Pentecost their views are wrong, they may still have and the small Christian community still If you were a pupil at Downside today, with something to teach one. clings on despite centuries of persecution. a desire to deepen your faith, where would I also loved my visits to Algeria and so many you begin? How do you feel about being awarded the other countries. Our faith is attractive because of its beauty, OG medal? truth and goodness. To some extent When I was six I won a prize at school, but What drew you to the Dominicans rather which opens the door depends upon one’s since there were only six other pupils in the than the Benedictines? character. The trouble is that if one starts school, there were prizes for all! After that I I no more rejected the Benedictines with its truth claims, then many young never won a prize during my school career than does someone who marries. It was people might become nervous, as if all other at Worth or Downside. My parents always Dom Aelred who first told me about the approaches to knowledge and transcendence asked discretely if there was any reason to Dominicans, and our motto Veritas, ‘Truth’. were being invalidated, which is not true. Or come to Prize Day and there never was. I was drawn by the simple brotherly way else one might fall into a narrow dogmatism So receiving the OG medal is a wonderful of life, by our Dominican democracy and which is not at all Catholic. If one starts with surprise for which I am most grateful. by belonging to a community of brothers our moral vision, one can sound moralistic and sisters that is truly global. Mind you, my if one is not careful. And that is why beauty

8 OG Medal OG Medal 9 A LEVEL ADDED VALUE

WE ARE DELIGHTED THAT, FOR ADDING VALUE AT A LEVEL, DOWNSIDE HAS BEEN PLACED SECOND IN SOMERSET AND 39TH NATIONALLY IN THE DFE PERFORMANCE TABLES, RANKING OUR VALUE-ADDED SCORE IN THE TOP 30 INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS IN ENGLAND.

These results reflect the commitment of Downside to see every pupil achieve their very best as they progress through the School. There can be no doubt that pupils who are happy, challenged and engaged take full advantage of all the opportunities offered to them and support each other to do the same.

All our pupils, both boarding and day, are able to immerse themselves fully into the learning experience and take advantage of on-site extra tuition, where necessary, and focussed prep-time.

The valued added at Downside is not solely limited to academic achievements. The School offers opportunities for pupils to enjoy over 100 co-curricular activities – all building confidence and developing character – whether it be team work in sports, problem solving on CCF exercise, outreach to local primary schools or communication skills honed at public speaking events.

10 A Level Added Value A Level Added Value 11 The 75th anniversary of VE Day in May was surroundings of the School’s pavilion. Dr A 75 Sports Challenge was run by the particularly poignant. As well as a celebration Tapia Amador ran an online Inter-House Live Sports Department, which saw pupils and of peace in the past, it also symbolised the Chess Competition, won by Fifth Former staff completing 75 repetitions in a range coming together as a virtual community in Alfred Wong who secured 11 matches of physical activities. The day ended with the face of the Covid-19 struggles. Again we undefeated. Very popular was the Retro Selfie virtual tea parties and the sharing of stories prayed for peace – but this time it was for Challenge, where pupils and staff dressed up and photographs from VE Day 1945 with a very different reason. in the style of famous WWII posters. extended family members online.

The Downside community engaged Mr and Mrs Dolman took up the Lindy It was a day to reflect and remember the wholeheartedly with a special programme Hop Challenge and danced their socks off past, to take a pause for the present and of learning and fun for the day. The Head in fine form, whilst their daughters took part share the time together, even though Master opened the event with a welcome in the Bake Off, creating delicious treats for we were apart. speech video shot up in the charming the local care home Fosse House.

#ve75day STAYING HOME #communityspirit FOR VICTORY THIS YEAR, VE DAY SAW US ‘STAYING HOME FOR VICTORY’. WE REMEMBERED THE EVENT AND FELT GREAT STRENGTH TOGETHER AS A COMMUNITY, EVEN THOUGH WE WERE PHYSICALLY APART.

12 Staying Home For Victory Staying Home For Victory 13 MY CHILDREN BENEFIT FROM THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS: THE NURTURING OF THE HOUSE PLUS REGULAR FAMILY TIME AT HOME. THEY LOVE BEING DAY PUPILS AT DOWNSIDE AND REALLY BENEFIT FROM THE BOARDING STRUCTURE: LESS PRESSURE TO SQUEEZE IN ALL OF THE EXTRA ACTIVITIES IN THE NORMAL SCHOOL DAY, MORE DOWNTIME WITH THEIR FRIENDS – AND SCHEDULED PREP TIME. Current Parent

WHAT A DIFFERENCE A

We believe that, in this part of the country, we offer the best combination of academic focus, co-curricular breadth and pastoral DAY care. Our school day can dovetail with the parental working day, MAKES with all activities on one beautiful rural campus, where rushing to after-school appointments can become a thing of the past. This can give the family significant benefit at no extra cost; indeed parents Boarding or Day? For some families, this decision isn’t an easy tell us that this added freedom has a very positive impact on the choice to make. Luckily, Downside offers both options and day quality of family time at home. pupils can always move to being boarders if they wish. Whilst we primarily remain a 24/7 boarding school, around 25% of our pupils All meals, including supper, can be taken at the School. Day pupils can choose to take the day option so that they can have a mix of stay until 9.00pm, meaning that prep and exam revision can be done school and home each day. in a supervised atmosphere. Parents tell us that this is an effective use of time and actively enhances the home life of their child. Day pupils are integrated seamlessly into a world of opportunity, mirroring all that a boarder will experience. They share the six With daily school minibuses that collect and drop off door-to-door Houses with boarders, and can even choose to sleep at school for to and from Frome, Bath and the Chew Valley, and co-curricular two or three nights per week with our ‘Day Plus’ option, which is activities based on-site at no extra charge, the day offer at similar to Flexi Boarding. Downside is fantastic value for money.

14 What a Difference a Day Makes What a Difference a Day Makes 15 Holly has enjoyed sharing her knowledge of digital animation and illustration with Downside young artists, including the teaching of digital software applications such as Photoshop. She has praised the variety of creativity, originality, techniques and materials that are encouraged both in art lessons and at weekend co-curricular art activities. The School is lucky to have extensive art facilities including a dedicated Sixth Form studio, a print screen room and a Mac studio.

Holly showing new skills and techniques to visitors from Heywood Prep at one of our Art Experience Days (see p76).

In Summer 2019, a number of celebrities from the Creative Industries Federation, including Sir Lenny Henry, called for creative education to be accessible to all young people and asked the government to realise the vital role of creative education not only for the younger generation, but also for the creative industry and our future economy. Employing artists like Holly gives our pupils an insight into the professional arts world and demonstrates the continuum from art made in the classroom through to professional CREATIVE practice in the creative industries. At Downside, Holly relishes inspiring young minds, while helping to raise the status and value of EDUCATION creative arts in education. As part of Holly’s residency, and inspired by the beauty of the LAST SEPTEMBER WE WELCOMED A NEW ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE TO SCHOOL – landscape at and around Downside, Holly has had the opportunity HOLLY WARBURTON. HOLLY GRADUATED FROM KINGSTON UNIVERSITY WITH and time to produce new artwork for her studio based on a series A FIRST CLASS HONOURS DEGREE IN ILLUSTRATION AND ANIMATION IN 2018. of nature studies. She also continues to consider commissions, SINCE THEN, SHE HAS WORKED AS A FREELANCE ILLUSTRATOR AND ANIMATOR, progressing further her industry experience and pieces for auction. OFTEN DIGITALLY. HER FAVOURITE ANIMATION PROJECT OF 2019 WAS AN ADVERT PROMOTING A BONNARD EXHIBITION FOR TATE MODERN. To see more of Holly’s work, please visit hollywarbs.com

16 Creative Education Creative Education 17 REFLECTIONS

BARLOW HOUSE MASTER SIMON POTTER HAS BEEN AT DOWNSIDE FOR 30 YEARS. HE REFLECTS ON HIS OWN SCHOOL DAYS, HIS TENURE AT DOWNSIDE AND HOW HE’S APPROACHED LOCKDOWN.

Tell us about your introduction to roles. It was pleasure to be offered the himself back in shape!’ All I know is that he Downside. opportunity to be House Master again, must have worked very hard to achieve I arrived at Downside in the summer particularly in Barlow, and I am aware of that! Amongst other things he commented of ’91. I still remember so well my first having come full circle in both returning that Downside itself and the supportive sight of the Abbey: its green roof against to Barlow and helping to organise the mentors he had here gave him and many the other greens of the Somerset activity programme. pupils the opportunity to spread their countryside. I was brought in to run wings. There are of course the many the School’s leisure facilities, to develop What have been the highlights of your emotional highs of amazing individual external bookings, organise an activities time at Downside thus far? and team performances on the sports programme and manage the GAP On a personal level, meeting my wife field, and not always resulting in victory, pupils. I realised very quickly that Silvia, here and seeing our daughter Zaza but always important milestones and weekends, normally packed with my complete her first, albeit, abridged year experiences. Watching the pupils perform playing team sports, were no longer at Downside. Generally, however, there in both music and drama and the joy and my own. I didn’t mind as I reflected on have been many highlights namely as a elation they obviously feel – the result of how much people had done for me as House Master and the constant challenge much courage, practice and determination a teenager who was passionate about of youth and being kept young by their – is priceless. Other highlights have been playing sports. Now, it was my turn to zest for life. It is wonderful to be part of being part of the many changes in the last give back, coach and encourage. their transformation – that is what keeps three decades and most importantly the you grounded and in the present. Whilst move to co-education. Finally there has Soon I was also doing some DTP graphic tangible projects are important and have also always been the opportunity to listen design, teaching PE and then Design, their place in every aspect of life, I believe to and meet interesting, and interested, having completed an in-service PGCE. I in the ‘long game’ particularly when people from all over the world. was introduced to tutoring and pastoral dealing with personal development. It is life by Dom James in Barlow (B72; HsM always lovely to hear years later how past What sort of (senior) school did you of Barlow 1983–96) before taking on pupils remember their time here, for the attend and how does it compare with an Assistant’s role in Plunkett House most part, with affection. This morning I Downside? (our small prep school House), initially had a WhatsApp message from a former That’s also another story worthy of more under Adrian Aylward, our recent pupil Sanzhar Sultaniv (B03). A long time time. Briefly, on arrival in this country, Chair of Governors. My apprenticeship ago, clearing out a cupboard, I found his having departed Southern Africa, with in pastoral work continued in Powell tour shirt from 2002 when he was in a certain degree of haste, I was lucky House, as an Assistant and then House Plunkett. I kept it in the hope of giving enough to end up in Winchester where I Master for some years. Following this, it to him one day – perhaps for his own attended my local comprehensive school. and in addition to teaching and coaching child. Anyway, some years ago he called My mother worked every weekend and games, I was seconded to where cover in to give a talk to the pupils on a film he our life went through a significant change, was needed at the time: Games Master, had produced. He was grateful for the but, as children, you adapt and get on ICT liaison, Sports Administrator, Art shirt which made him laugh. More years with it. My older brother and sister also Simon with his wife Silvie, daughter Zaza, Technician and Assistant in Barlow passed, and this morning on WhatsApp who is currently in the First Form, and Lucca the dog. House – all good learning experiences he is wearing it! In his words – ‘it may or and I gave as much as I could to all these may not have contributed to him getting

18 Reflections Reflections 19 important to me in my teenage years. How have you approached lockdown? to walking up a flight of stairs, the food Downside certainly provides all of these This certainly enabled a period of quite we have been eating, conversations with opportunities – under one roof. intense reflection as I am sure it did for friends, family and strangers – it is what IT IS WONDERFUL TO BE PART OF OUR PUPILS' TRANSFORMATION – many. On presence, we all know what makes life enchanting. Downside pupils THAT IS WHAT KEEPS YOU GROUNDED AND IN THE PRESENT. How would you describe the it feels like if someone in your company are generally very good at this especially ‘personality’ of Barlow House? is there physically but might as well be when they follow their passions, whether That’s not an easy question if you are on another planet because they are so it is playing a musical instrument, on the at the coalface, however, I do know my distracted. I know we are all guilty of sports field or learning something new in own personality is perhaps more suited this on occasions, looking at our phone, class. In my case, I can find that focus on kept me in line. The teachers I to learn and thrive in. The teachers I knew to Barlow than the other Houses! A dreaming of being somewhere else or the tennis court, dealing with community remember took an interest in me also saw you in a different light outside contentious and debatable statement worrying about something completely life in the boarding house and increasingly, as a person; they were encouraging, the classroom, and that is what Downside perhaps. Talking about what you do can different to the conversation or company during lockdown, going for a walk with understanding and persistent. They had provides and it makes all the difference. I muddy the waters, and what you do should immediately at hand. There is no doubt my daughter. to be with me as I really could have done had a variety of paid jobs outside school, talk for itself. I will leave this question that I have found the advent of social more – a childhood in the bush was not, including a paper round and bakery job to others with excellent credentials in media a challenging concept when it There is no doubt that recent events and returned to painting in her studio (our initially, compatible with sitting in the before morning school, gardening and community living, pupil management comes to social development and the restrictions have focused the mind and living room whilst in school) and I learnt classroom. Real progress in this respect leisure attendant after school and during and expressing themselves. Dom James instant, sometimes thoughtless, platform personally, my family and I have been very to cope without the boys in Barlow and was not until post-16. the holidays. Downside’s Benedictine described the Barlow personality as a it provides. I can see our pupils together fortunate to spend Easter and the Summer embrace the virtual world of learning. ethos of building community and service community man who contributes to many in a social group, all with their heads Term in school. The emergence of spring I am fully aware we are somewhat My saviour was sport. I played after and the variety of opportunities it offers aspects of life in Downside, Academic, down and face-to-face interaction at a has been an absolute pleasure to watch. blessed, being together in a beautiful school, on Saturday mornings for the to thrive both inside and outside the Games, Music, Drama, Debating, Service minimum. I always challenge this and am We have had time to walk, talk and tackle place and having our own and school throughout the year, Saturday classroom do, in many ways, reflect and Serving in the Abbey Church – often assured this is not the norm. This is endless projects I have had in the back of collaborative projects. As Barlow House afternoons for the Winchester Clubs, these experiences. They enable the perhaps in a less flashy way but always also balanced by the constant interaction, my mind (mainly repurposing furniture and Master, I am grateful for how the pupils often with some of my teachers in the development of positive, productive there, always present. (The idea of smiles, activities and games I see in the making things – including a new office). always manage to keep me in the teams, and Sundays for the county during relationships and it is that that I appreciate presence in everything you do is an area I corridors, Houses and on the sports It’s not often I have the School’s Design present as they tackle their days and the winter and local sports club during most. To see pupils in every aspect of have become increasingly sure about.) Mr pitches. On behalf of my own daughter I Department to myself – my version of the learn through experience. My advice to the summer. I am very grateful to all life gives you a better understanding of Paul Jones (Teacher of English and Barlow am also very grateful of the opportunities garden shed escape perhaps! pupils is always to take advantages of those who worked hard at providing the them. Being trusted with space to learn Tutor) spent two years with us, sadly it has provided for remote interaction opportunities to find out what you are opportunities and the communities for us from experience is something that was leaving for pastures new this summer. He with friends during lockdown. Balance Zaza, our daughter, and I have had good at, strive to understand others, left us with his kind reflections on Barlow… and education is crucial if we are to long walks, crystal hunting on the embrace change and learn how to Relaxing on the Worth Lawn with Barlow Boys on a Prize Day. ‘It has its own wing of the School, within avoid and understand the more negative farm field beyond the sports pitches manage or lessen your anxieties, and and without. A feeling of togetherness, aspects of this medium. For that we adjacent to the Roman Road. For the if you can, combine your passions with support and friendship rolls along the need more excellent role models, peers, first time I really noticed the impressive a career. Then, engagement, vocation, corridors, up the endless stairs to the lofty parents, politicians and dare I say it and beautiful line of trees that hug the a passion for life, kindness, self-worth, garret and through to the cinema room even celebrities! road from the top of the village. I have understanding and contentment will and study. It somehow feels like Barlow is always loved field walking, hunting down have a very good chance to follow. an unvarnished, asymmetric embodiment I have always tried to apply my full interesting things from antiquity – I had Don’t be afraid of how long this can of the values of the School, Benedictine to attention to most things I do, with varying forgotten the magic of finding crystals, take and don’t give up. Keeping life the core, but through essence, rather than degrees of success. It is not easy to focus fossils and bits of pottery. We even simple can be a complex art as we didactic teaching. Gentle humour, a duty on the more mundane aspects of life found a piece of ceramic that had a very negotiate the passage of time and the of care, thoughtfulness, an even pace to but it certainly makes a difference when old Downside crest on it…one that I did associated responsibilities. Perhaps you life – all potential pitfalls in a modish world you do. There is nothing new in this not recognise from my time here…so only need to be clever twice in your life, which favours pace and rigid interpretations idea, mindfulness I believe, but it remains obviously more than a century old! The finding your own vocation and meeting of intellect – are strengths…’ It would be a worthwhile aspiration which can be holiday gave way to a different routine a partner to share the journey with. unfair to claim exclusive rights on these challenged by the expectations we place and returning to work, Zaza ‘attended Otherwise you need to be clever all kind sentiments but as a House they are on ourselves and others and the society school’ in the Barlow study every the time, and that can be exhausting. and remain important aspirations for the we live in. More recently, during the morning adapting, with relative ease, and I have been fortunate enough to find it Barlow personality. lockdown, I have been trying to apply this using social media to its full. Silvia has all at Downside!

20 Reflections Reflections 21 FOR THE LOVE OF DISCOVERY

HOW DO CONSUMER COMPANIES KNOW HOW TO GET YOU TO BUY THEIR PRODUCTS? WHAT’S THE POINT IN SCIENCE? DO I HAVE TO WEAR A WHITE COAT?

These questions were the inspiration Dr Myers is a specialist in neuroscience; for Downside Science to begin a he enthralled the audience with some series of Sixth Form lectures from of the subtle things that major brands speakers that would focus on the do to build their reputation and sort of careers that pupils can promote their products. From EEG follow with a science qualification and eye tracking to skin conductance and that don’t involve standing at measurements and MRI brain scans. a lab bench wearing a white coat. There were a few insights into mistakes As well an inspiring our Sixth Formers, that brands made with their products the lecture series welcomed pupils from such as Tropicana spending nearly Millfield School, Bruton School for Girls $100m to change their packaging, and Ralph Allen School. realising that it wasn’t selling as well and having to change it back again. For the inaugural lecture, Dr Andy Myers from Walnut Unlimited talked to Pupils had a chance to ask their own psychology, biology and business studies questions in the Q&A session, as well as pupils about the science of market research speak with Dr Myers on a one-to-one and brand awareness. Walnut is a market basis at the end of the lecture. It was research agency combining research skills obvious that everyone had enjoyed the and insight expertise acquired across lecture and hopefully it had opened eyes different sectors over many years. They to more career paths, or at least make deliver human understanding that allows sense of the work that they are doing brands to shift behaviour, launch winning in lessons. A successful lecture products, communicate effectively and and hopefully the first of many when engage with people. we return to school in the autumn.

If you feel that you could inspire our next generation of scientists with different career paths using science-related qualifications, please email Head of Chemistry Mr Hunt: [email protected]

22 For the Love of Discovery For the Love of Discovery 23 WILLIAM BOWMAN ALEXANDER WICKHAM HANNA KEDZIOR FREDERICK DALGLIESH EPQs What was the real reason that the United States of How far was Belgium Colonialism responsible for Does chronic illness affect social relationships in EXTENDED PROJECT QUALIFICATIONS Is space exploration justified? America invaded Iraq in 2003? the Rwanda Genocide? adolescents?

THIS YEAR’S EPQS – WRITTEN BY WIKTORIA LASSAK JEDRZEJ NIEPOLSKI JOE ROWELL JUDETTA WHYTE LYDIA WHITTAKER THE LOWER SIXTH FORM – SHOW, ONCE AGAIN, THE DIVERSITY OF WORLD ISSUES THAT INTEREST OUR PUPILS.

An EPQ is an extended project qualification, the aim of which is to develop the skills required to study independently at university. All Lower How may ballroom dancing affect modern music Is the national minimum wage justified? The analysis Do Christian responses to the problem of evil and How are young people affected by climate change Sixth Form pupils have the opportunity How useful is the Bible in understanding humanity? therapies in rehabilitation of elderly with disabilities? of the United States' economy. suffering have anything to offer modern society? and what are we doing to prevent it? to undertake an EPQ. They choose their own topic, research the subject and then produce a dissertation of MARTA RESIAK MICHAEL KEALEY MICHAEL YUEN NICHOLAS HOBBS OWAIN DALEY 5,000-8,000 words, fully referenced, with critical analysis and a bibliography.

Our pupils receive some guidance in lessons and have the support of their tutor but, to develop independent skills, they work mainly on their own. Once their research is complete, pupils conduct a formal presentation and then Is the concept of physical infinities desirable in To what extent did the Diocletian persecution Is dementia, specifically Alzheimer’s Disease, a Assuming that money is no object, what is the best are questioned in detail. EPQs are well How do martial arts affect people psychologically? modern science? impact Christians living in Great Britain? uniquely human disorder? strategy for combatting Bovine TB? regarded by Russell Group universities, and can form part of a UCAS application. SAMUEL WEBB ROSEMARY CAPEWELL WEIYI LI HALL SEBASTIAN NIKODEM BAEHR

I APPRECIATED THE PROCESS OF WRITING MY EPQ AS IT ENABLED ME TO EXPAND MY SCIENTIFIC KNOWLEDGE AND SHOWED ME HOW MUCH JOY I CAN DERIVE FROM THAT. Sixth Former and Polish Scholar Wiktoria Lassak How has the depiction of homosexuality played with How effective is anti-angiogenesis as a 'silver bullet' Do the ethical issues that arise around autonomous What has been driving Polish emigration since the Are athletes born or made? the traditional depiction of the sexes in fine art? treatment of cancer? vehicles condone their use? fall of communism in Poland?

24 EPQs EPQs 25 DURING THE LENT TERM IT WAS CLEAR THAT LOCKDOWN WOULD NOT BE OVER IN A FEW WEEKS. WITH THAT IN MIND, STAFF WORKED TOGETHER VIRTUAL SCHOOLING TO CREATE THE DOWNSIDE REMOTE LEARNING PROGRAMME TO SUPPORT OUR PUPILS, NOT ONLY IN THEIR STUDIES, BUT ALSO TO KEEP THEM CONNECTED WITH THE SCHOOL COMMUNITY.

The programme helped pupils to establish a routine which was manageable and sustainable, and was met with much enthusiasm from the pupils and their families. The timetable was redesigned to make timings simpler and with the intention of providing a healthy blend of opportunities for classes to come together to receive live instruction or modelled activities. Of equal importance was the need for our pupils to study independently using resources provided for them by teachers on which they could work at their own pace.

During this time of uncertainty, we needed, more than ever, to listen to and support one another. As a school, we have a strong sense of community but the way in which we expressed ourselves inevitably changed somewhat as we moved online. Alongside the Remote Learning Programme, we continued with community events, such as Mass, School Assembly, Hymn Practice, tutor time and House assemblies in virtual form. These were important set piece events, but the sense of community was generated from our everyday interactions, which took place in the classroom, in the Houses, and through the co-curricular and the spiritual life of the School. We reunited these communities online and provided the opportunity for relationships within them to be strengthened.

26 Virtual Schooling Virtual Schooling 27 THESE GIRLS CAN!

Launched in 2015, the ‘This Girl Can’ aspect in this is pupil perception and in physical activity and sports ranging from as it is so important for their physical and initiative has successfully persuaded nearly engagement. This year the girls have walking or running to wild swimming and emotional health and wellbeing. three million women across the UK to been in high praise of their tennis coach, rock climbing. I wondered if they might get more involved in physical activity and Mr O’Rourke, and remark that they feel be agreeable to sharing their stories of To read These Girls Can! – a relatable role sport. Funded by Sport England, its core listened to and supported in their how they like to keep active. Women are model encyclopaedia of female Downside mission statement emphasises that: chosen sport. traditionally reticent about sharing their staff please visit: relationship with exercise, but the response www.downside.co.uk/these-girls-can ‘Women come in all shapes and sizes with During lockdown I had the opportunity to was overwhelmingly positive and the result all abilities and from all backgrounds. Some participate in a ‘Women in Sport’ webinar has been the These Girls Can! publication Emily Chapman of us are expert sportswomen, some of us which focussed on how to engage girls and which it is hoped will inspire and motivate Head of Girls Games are a bit rubbish. It doesn’t matter. We’re young women more in physical activity, all girls at the School to keep active, both just happy that you’re getting active. And if especially those who identify as ‘non- over the summer break and beyond. Emily Chapman, Head of Girls Games you’re still not sure that you can, we’re here sporty’. One of the key messages from to help you to figure out the way of getting the session was about the importance of I hope that girls and young women at our active that’s right for you.’ ‘relatable’ role models for young women. school see that we don’t all fit into certain One example given concerned body boxes and that everyone finds their own As Head of Girls Games at Downside, image, especially in sports without much individual exercise journey at different it is important to me that we make media coverage. This got me thinking… at times of their life. I hope that These Girls physical activity and sport accessible Downside, we have many of these relatable Can! inspires all our pupils to continue to and enjoyable for all girls. An important female role models who regularly take part seek what they enjoy and keep doing it,

28 These Girls Can! These Girls Can! 29 PERFORMING IN AND OUT OF LOCKDOWN ARTS OUR HOUSE IT’S NO SECRET THAT PERFORMING ARTS HELP TO DEVELOP SOCIAL SKILLS, ENCOURAGE Slick costume changes, cleverly designed sets, creative choreography and all our favourite POSITIVE EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT, AND IMPROVE PERFORMANCE IN ACADEMIC STUDIES. Madness tunes in Our House, the Musical. It was everything we love about Madness and more.

The School’s Arts facilities include Downside Abbey Church – a majestic and inspiring venue to perform in; a Performing Arts Centre which has a 400-seat theatre, music rooms and a recording studio; and a Mac Studio dedicated to music. During lockdown, not being able to perform together in these wonderful spaces did not ‘stop the music’. Far from it. We have continued to sing, dance and act together virtually, keeping us strong as a community, and connected to our artistic roots.

As well as continuing Arts lessons from the curriculum, pupils and staff also joined voices to bring us the Downside Virtual Choir and May Morning Madrigals; pupils and staff learnt the Lindy Hop for VE Day; and the First to Third Forms started a new arts project entitled ‘Musicrama’.

Here are some of the events from the past year:

BEFORE LOCKDOWN: THE OTHER GUYS Jaw-dropping harmonies, inventive lyrics and slick dance moves: singing sensation The Other Guys performed a medley of songs in the school theatre back in January. It’s hard to say which number from the evening concert received the loudest applause. Every offering was a delight Rock Night including some amazing beat-boxing in various up-tempo numbers from Old Gregorian Felix Hobbs (S18). CHARITY SHOWCASE Downside School and the Midsomer and Radstock Rotary delivered a fantastic evening of musical entertainment in aid of the School’s and Rotary’s charities. The event featured ensembles from Downside, the Paulton Concert Band and the Midsomer Community Band, with uplifting favourites from stage and screen, from much-loved band repertoire and massed items featuring the Downside Pipe Band.

30 Performing Arts Performing Arts 31 DURING LOCKDOWN: DOWNSIDE FUNCTION BAND MUSICRAMA The newly formed Downside Function The Music and Drama Departments joined forces during remote learning for their Band, comprising pupils and staff, aims ‘Musicrama’ project. Pupils from the First to Third Forms tapped into the inner to perform their arrangements of lives of toys (1F), household objects (2F), any inanimate object (3F), and created a contemporary artists such as Stevie monologue accompanied by soundtracks and sound effects. Wonder, Bruno Mars, Aretha Franklin and many more. For Drama, pupils were encouraged to script, add stage directions, movement, gesture and expression; vocal intonation, pauses and design and make costumes and props. In Music, pupils got to grips with BandLab and Garage Band, and were encouraged to make music out of everyday objects, as well as any instruments or COMPOSITION COMPETITION recorded music that was fitting to their piece. As part of the 2 Days in June programme, pupils composed their own Finally, the pupils used editing apps such as iMovie to put their pieces together and musical offerings. record their final performances.

VIRTUAL CHOIR Every week pupils and staff joined in voice for the regular Sunday Service’s Hymn Practice.

MAY MORNING MADRIGALS The first day of May usually sees members of the Downside Mixed Chamber Choir climb up to the top of the Roberts Tower for May Morning Madrigals. The Madrigals are a much-loved tradition at the School for welcoming in spring.

Despite the spring 2020 lockdown, the choir certainly didn’t disappoint. Whilst not on site, they recorded their musical offerings and sent them to Mr Bridges, Head of Academic Music, who edited them together.

(Left) The 2019 May Morning Madrigals

32 Performing Arts Performing Arts 33 grades started to plummet. I think that story did he end up here, and how did he end up Joe: We’re left wondering exactly what it is in itself an explanation of why Colin was staying here for such a long time? means to ‘fulfilled in your own comfort zone’. my favourite teacher, as he was an example of The image of Mr Rawlins is of a language how much difference it can make if you have Mr Rawlins: It was almost accidental, to be evangelist, someone with the highest a teacher with whom you can engage. honest. I was very happy at my previous expectations who will repay your hard work in school, but a friend there had asked me to kind, leaving no stone unturned in supporting My least favourite teacher was probably help her update her CV, which I did, and so I ambitious UCAS applications, for instance. one of my O level French teachers, who thought it was a good time to update mine, Maybe it’s a noble sentiment, the idea that in very nearly put me off the subject for life. which I also did. Having written a fresh new amongst all the cut and thrust of ambition He wasn’t unpleasant; indeed, he did his CV, then, I thought I would send it off, just in the workplace, or in a school year, where best to be well-liked, but at the end of the to see if it ‘worked’, and the Head of MFL at the desire to be the best and keep moving day, I just found him too full of his own self- Downside happened to be in the TES that upwards is in some way enshrined by societal importance. And he had a very annoying week, so I sent off an application, without any expectations, there is a genuine truth isn’t voice. Perhaps didn’t always have as much confidence I would be considered, as I was doing what you do to the very best of your patience as I could have done with others; still under 30 at that point. ability and not focusing on the horizon, chasing MEETING one of my French teachers once wrote it, but allowing it to sit there and frame the of me, ‘His attitude towards his classmates This is my 23rd year here in the same job sun’s diurnal progress; look you, the stars shine MR RAWLINS by Joe Rowell is sometimes less than saintly’, which was (mostly) and the same classroom, indeed still. He is uniquely placed, not just in terms of probably fair. I do cringe now thinking back the same desk chair (which I brought with seeing change over time at Downside, but in to how I behaved in some classes when in me from my last school). I had intended the wider independent school sector. the equivalent of the Fourth Form. to stay no more than five years. The skills needed to stay this long are abiding Mr Rawlins: Downside has definitely LAST YEAR WE ‘MET MR HOBBS’. THIS YEAR JOE ROWELL – THE ANDREW NEIL reduced or no fees. Of the £60m of Joe: We wonder if these things have optimism and the ability to feel fulfilled in evolved, and definitely for the better. I think OF DOWNSIDE – MEETS MR RAWLINS, TO LEARN MORE ABOUT DOWNSIDE’S bursaries offered by all independent schools changed now he is on the other side; your own comfort zone. In terms of the it is a much kinder environment than when LONGSTANDING LANGUAGES LEGEND. SOME SEE HIM AS AN INSCRUTABLE in the UK annually, approximately £15m, so does he remain ‘less than saintly’, does he working day my favourite part is first thing I first joined. I’m talking mainly about the FOE WITH A CLEAR SET OF INTRACTABLE BOUNDARIES, WHILST OTHERS HAVE one quarter, are from just that one school. still react strongly to ‘an annoying voice’, in the morning; waking my brain up with pupils; my colleagues have almost invariably CAUGHT A GLIMPSE OF A SENSE OF HUMOUR LURKING SOMEWHERE WITHIN, A and does he challenge – at least inwardly coffee and The Times crossword. My least been people with whom I have enjoyed FLICKER IN THE IRIS, A MOMENT, THEN GONE. WE BRAVED LA CAGE DU LION. Joe: It’s an enormous figure and suggests – others’ ‘self-importance’? These are the favourite is the journey to and from school; working. The most obvious change during that Christ's is an empowering place, with secrets of the Common Room. We do I only live 20 minutes away, but I really my time was the move to co-education, but Joe: The first thing you need to know about in a pillow fight, as the pillows were fairly the capacity to engender profound change know that some pupils find Mr Rawlins a bit dislike driving. Mostly because of other cars, I don’t think that was the catalyst for the Mr Rawlins is that he attended possibly the solid. It's a serious grounding for a serious for the individual. Mr Rawlins expands on intimidating and are brave enough to ask lorries and tractors. And cyclists. Driving change in atmosphere in the place – that only school in the country that it is more person, a crucible of hard-knocks from iron his experiences, via the thorny topic of best him about this. We then run for cover like sometimes seems less of a commute for me had already started before co-education. unique than Downside: Christ’s Hospital. pillows, with a role model to match: the and worst teachers. the waiter hotfooting it from Mr Creosote than a series of hair-raising near-misses. The influx of international pupils has Head of Languages was a large, terrifying after one last ‘wafer thin mint’. Mr Rawlins: It’s one of the oddest schools Yorkshireman given to explosions of temper Mr Rawlins: In many ways, I was a good in the country. Take a look at their website, that made you quake. pupil – hard-working, generally well-behaved. Mr Rawlins: Well, thank you. Actually, the and you’ll see the uniform. We had to My favourite teacher was Colin Edwards. He fact that pupils are happy to tell me this march into lunch each day with a large Joe: Mr Rawlins isn’t from Yorkshire. There taught me O level Maths, which I took in the as often as they do suggests that it is not marching band playing (I led the band), is, however, an apocryphal tale told by Mr Fourth Form, then an additional O level in as true as some might say. On the other although lunch (indeed any meal) was Rawlins – you have to wait until you get to the Fifth Form. He was remarkably patient, hand, although the image of the ‘dark lord’ barely worth going to, as we had what was the Sixth Form at Downside to hear it – very good at explaining Maths, and it was (as I have been referred to by colleagues described by school inspectors as ‘the worst which details what happens to you when because of him that I took Maths at A level. on occasion) is not one I actively cultivate, I school food in the country’. The regime was your pronunciation of ‘jeune’ overlaps with I was lucky enough to have him once again, don’t think there’s any harm in there being harsh in other ways; large dormitories of 30 ‘jaune’. However, Christ’s Hospital has one and I continued to do very well. However, he staff around of whom one is a bit wary. or so beds, with just two small radiators; ice defining and impressive aspect: left at the end of my Lower Sixth year, so I would form on the inside of the windows. had different teachers in the Upper Sixth, one Joe: As one of the ‘old guard’, Mr Rawlins The beds were metal frames, wooden Mr Rawlins: It provides a private education of whom was the excellent Head of Maths, has been at Downside for 23 years. Children planks and a thin horse-hair mattress; to those who otherwise couldn’t afford it; but despite his excellence, I found myself he taught when he came here are now 41 you could do someone serious damage the majority of pupils pay either drastically completely at sea in the subject, and my years old. We’re open about two things: how Richard aged 14

34 Meeting Mr Rawlins Meeting Mr Rawlins 35 LISTENING IS FUNDAMENTAL TO OUR A RICH GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT. DIVERSITY

Mr Rawlins in full flow at one of Downside’s Language Experience Days with visiting Year 5 pupils from Heywood Prep and Kilmersdon Primary School. changed the School. Multiculturalism outdoor education instructor in the United things don’t have to be flashy and fast to be benefits us all; modern Downside is a more States. I worked on a residential centre, inspiring, and whilst Mr Rawlins might not tolerant place, and this is partly because we where groups of school children would be flashy and fast, at his own admission, he is have adopted values beyond just those of a come to stay for five days, and basically, I inspiring, at our admission, and the evidence traditional, all-male British boarding school. taught nature. I loved the job, and almost is subtle: stayed out there Joe: It's hard now to MULTICULTURALISM BENEFITS permanently. Mr Rawlins: I have occasionally, over the imagine Mr Rawlins in US ALL; MODERN DOWNSIDE I wasn’t so years, received very kind letters from recent a different vocation, IS A MORE TOLERANT PLACE, intimidating back leavers telling me I had made a difference to but we know that AND THIS IS PARTLY BECAUSE then. Bizarrely, them and/or inspired them, and those have all teachers at one WE HAVE ADOPTED VALUES I was also the reminded me of why I went into teaching. point didn’t want BEYOND JUST THOSE OF A Director of Water to be teachers, TRADITIONAL, ALL-MALE Safety for US Joe: It’s hard to imagine our teachers they wanted to be BRITISH BOARDING SCHOOL. forces in Southern outside of the institution, having lives, doing writers, scientists, Germany, but I’m things, living. Actually, it’s quite hard for doctors, artists, but subsumed their hopes not sure that counts, as I didn’t know I held teachers to imagine this. But we ask anyway, and dreams into creating opportunities for the position until I surrendered my ID at we want to know what he gets up to. others to achieve theirs. What about Mr the end of my time there. Rawlins? What was his dream? Mr Rawlins: I love to cook, read, walk the With a school community drawn from over thirty countries across the globe, bringing Joe: Mr Hobbs was a VW Kombi. It’s one dog, travel, and do gardening. In my late together pupils from a wide variety of cultural backgrounds, we derive strength from Mr Rawlins: I would have loved to be of our standing questions. That and the joke pupil days, I used to work as a lifeguard at acknowledging and embracing difference. ‘Listen’ is famously the first word of the Rule an airline pilot, or anything involved with one. For Mr Rawlins, it’s ‘something solid and the local pool during the school holidays, of St. Benedict and listening is fundamental to our growth and development both air travel. Even now I love the whole comfortable, but uneconomical – financial and driving in on a Sunday morning, I as individuals and as a community. It involves patience, openness and the desire to experience of flying – the airports, the prudence is not my strong point – used to see people washing their cars and understand, along with the humility to recognise that we do not have all the answers. smell of aviation fuel, the flights; even on a Range Rover, perhaps?’ It’s certainly stable, pottering around in their gardens. I found all These are qualities we value. The solutions to many of the complex problems we budget airlines, the whole thing still holds long lasting and no friend of cyclists. We’re that rather depressing – dull and mundane. encounter in our world lie not just in intelligence and skill but grow out of diverse thinking. magic for me. The most unusual job I inclined to agree. Somehow, and we’re I’m now of an age when I can think of no have had was probably when I was an going to labour this metaphor, it shows that better way of spending my weekend.

36 Meeting Mr Rawlins A Rich Diversity 37 FOR OUR UPPER SIXTH, THIS ACADEMIC YEAR HAS NOT BEYOND COME TO A CLOSE IN THE WAY THEY MIGHT HAVE IMAGINED. NO ‘FORMAL’ EXAMS; NO LEAVERS’ BALL; NO HUGGING BELOVED FRIENDS TO SAY GOODBYES FOR THE SUMMER – DOWNSIDE AND BEYOND.

In preparation for this inevitability, when In May, we called on the wider our Summer Term started, rather than Downside community to support trying to keep with the accepted norm these pupils who, in turn, helped us and making our pupils take examinations to develop the Beyond Downside mimicking the normal exam series, Programme. The programme we gave our Upper Sixth Form pupils included daily keynote speakers a different option. They had the and sessions from OGs and current opportunity to personally assess their parents to support future career progress using written assessments and, paths with titles such as ‘Challenges to try something new, were offered a and Opportunities: as the ‘old order’ James Shone: Motivational speaking ‘Viva Voce’ (spoken assessment) with collapses, how do young people their teacher. We ran a personalised embrace that and replace a sense of programme of support lessons to help loss and bewilderment with optimism Room of our The Weld Café is one of the most popular relaxation spaces for many them prepare for these assessments and excitement?’ and ‘Technology is Downsiders. Situated off the peaceful and elegant Petre Cloister, it’s a place to and to give them an opportunity to changing the future of work. The rise relax and share a snack with friends whilst enjoying the view out over tranquil demonstrate how much they have of robots…’ Beyond Downside gardens and the iconic Monastery Library. developed over their time at Downside. has helped our pupils develop OWN Just as important was the non-academic robustness needed to deal with these Every week day the School’s catering staff provide pupils with a raft of the much- side of school life: all pupils continued unprecedented times. Mary Jane Platt (R76): Epidemiology loved Downside afternoon toasted sandwich, amongst other treats. One often to be an integral part of their House sees pupils queuing out to the Weld Café door for a ‘toastie’… communities, committed to supporting House activities and, by doing so, they The Beyond Downside Programme included over 30 speakers from a range of The Weld is a multi-use community area for a range of activities including the have kept in touch with their friends in disciplines including Epidemiology, Motivational Speaking, Journalism, Property very popular Lectio celebrations run by the Chaplaincy, and the ‘House at Home’ the School community, benefitting from Management and Mental Health. To find out more about the Beyond Downside events where families are invited to join their children to enjoy a typical Sunday at the positives therein. Programme, please visit www.downside.co.uk/beyond-downside-2/ the School.

38 Beyond Downside A Room of our Own 39 TEACHER PROFILE

THE JOY OF SINGING IS THAT IT’S ACCESSIBLE TO ALL AND WITH THE RIGHT SUPPORT AND GUIDANCE, CAN BE AS VERSATILE AS ONE WOULD WISH IT TO BE. I THINK IT IS UNDERRATED BY MANY BUT TOP IS CLEARLY VALUED BY MANY BRASS HERE AT DOWNSIDE.

JONATHAN BRIDGES JOINED DOWNSIDE pieces and arrangements by the current based work as possible, this will become Each year, bands across the nation compete LAST SEPTEMBER AS HEAD OF conductor of the highest-ranked band apparent to the pupils, too! Beyond the against one another in their sections and ACADEMIC MUSIC. AN ACCOMPLISHED in the world, Philip Harper (of Cory classroom, I have enjoyed setting up a regions all in an effort to qualify for the TRUMPETER, SINGER AND PIANIST, HE Band) including The World’s Greatest new Function Band and look forward National Finals which are a spectacular HAS ALREADY MADE A SIGNIFICANT Story-teller, Kingdom of Dragons and the to working towards a musical next year, event. The whole brass band movement IMPACT TO THE ACADEMIC MUSIC William Tell Overture. However, one of something which is surely a necessity in is little known by many and is worth PROVISION OF THE SCHOOL AND PLAYS the finest pieces of music is a simple one; every school’s calendar! investing some time in (particularly the IN MANY OF THE SCHOOL BANDS Shostakovich’s Festive Overture for its aforementioned Cory Band from Wales). INCLUDING DRUM BAND AND THE contrasting triumphant opening paired Tell us more about the instruments you play. As a pianist, I mainly accompany whether it NEWLY-FORMED FUNCTION BAND. with an elegant trio section. This piece First and foremost, I’m a trumpeter but be for examinations or concerts; it’s a very reminds me of something heroic by Elgar or have lots of experience playing the piano, useful skill to have in the classroom, too Why Downside? William Walton and I have great admiration singing and conducting, too. as you never know when the need to play I’d been Director of Music at a Catholic for Shostakovich’s orchestration of the may arise. As a singer, I spent years in choirs school in Surrey for six years before whole thing. Close ‘runners up’ include As soon as I moved to the area this year, I as a teenager and took part in some truly deciding to move on. I was looking to move Rachmaninov’s Rhapsody on a Theme of joined the Glastonbury Brass Band, a First memorable tours abroad singing in fantastic somewhere with a similar school ethos but Paganini and Alan Silvestri’s epic score to Section, competing band in which I play solo venues which I then returned to with my outside the busy outer London boroughs the Back to the Future films. cornet. I’ve been playing with brass bands own choirs, this time at the helm as the with more beautiful landscapes. Downside for the last ten years and greatly enjoy the conductor. The joy of singing is that it’s I’ve had the pleasure of directing on great fun for young people and I can’t was looking to appoint at just the right time What are your plans for academic Music competitive nature of it along with the accessible to all and with the right support many occasions – the National Youth recommend it enough. and, upon mentioning the job to my fiancée at Downside? fantastic sound the ensemble can make. and guidance, can be as versatile as one Music Camps. This is a three-week series (now Mrs Bridges), she reminded me that In the department this year we’ve been would wish it to be. I think it is underrated where musicians of all abilities from across I enjoy arranging music a great deal (as her brother had spent three wonderful working hard to introduce new practical, by many but is clearly valued by many here Europe come together and make music opposed to composing new music) and years at Downside as a boarder. This was musical skills lower down the School and at Downside. for the whole week in different ensembles have great ambitions to arrange some the only endorsement I needed before look forward to continuing this further with run by experienced teachers, musicians orchestral masterpieces for brass bands applying! The rest, as they say, is history! a new set of classroom keyboards. I firmly What else in your life is inspired by music? and tutors. It happens each summer and over the next few years; watch this space... believe that every child has the capacity Much of my spare time gets taken up often occupies a few months of my time It’s also worth mentioning that music has What is your favourite piece of music? to sing and demonstrate musical ability, no with practice, planning or preparing for whether it be arranging new music for the even inspired the naming of our nine-week As a brass player, I have a great love of matter their training or past experience and something musical. However, one worth orchestra, writing for the brass ensembles old puppy, who is called Tallis (after the 16th brass band music; there are many fantastic through integrating as much performance- mentioning is an annual residential which or coordinating the whole thing! It is Century composer, Thomas Tallis)!

40 Top Brass Top Brass 41 EXPLORING THE UNKNOWN: FROM STATE TO INDEPENDENT

SIXTH FORMER JUDETTA WHYTE ON WHAT IT’S LIKE TO CHANGE SCHOOLS IN SIXTH FORM, FROM ST AUGUSTINE’S COLLEGE, WILTSHIRE, TO DOWNSIDE.

t some point between getting prevent myself from gaping at the towering into the car and getting out ceilings and the well-polished lustrous of the car my surroundings floors' herringbone parquet. All of my changedA entirely. All around is grandiose senses shifted towards adjusting to these infrastructure; minuscule fragments of unfamiliar surroundings. I continued further heaven forming an ornate tapestry, a and further, unable to find anything dull sense of amazement replaces any previous or generally apathetic about my new feelings. This is what change must feel like. circumstances.

I wandered around the main School hall, I’ve never been a ‘brand new’ student my eyes darting in every direction staring before. It’s clear that the gradual alteration intently at every particular detail. Whilst from ordinary day student to full boarder One big happy family – Isabella House. Judetta is in the back row, seventh from the right. strolling along the vast, infinite corridors has happened. This is where I am, and filled with empty space, I struggled to it’s overwhelming. Even the small changes are quite something. I used to have a packed lunch every day because the food and the timetable seems stacked with living space with girls who I bond with my initial thoughts. It cuts through my was questionable, the queues long, and fascinating adventures. Everything seems to the extent of considering them as previously distorted perspective of the outcome uncertain. Now I receive a great, perhaps with one exception: another family. There is no capacity for private schools. It is not a place that smorgasbord of spectacular dishes – and it Saturday lessons! a sense of isolation. I’ve discovered that completely locks you out of the world. is much better. living in school isn’t a terrible thing as It is not horrible or intimidating; it’s Boarding life is compelling or bonkers there is a constant supply of support impressive and welcoming. All of the ‘Prep’ is part of the new language. I did not or both. It consists of running around, around you from the minute you wake apprehension immediately diffused within even know what Prep was until I started talking, eating and standing by the mirror, up to lights out. my first few steps from entering the boarding school. or in fellow Sixth Former Joe’s case, all of School. The School’s name is an antonym. these at the same time in a heady social Every day, I dig deeper, unlocking another I know I won’t take every opportunity Apparently, I’m a Lower Sixth, not a whirl. I am ensconced in a home away facet of life at Downside. It challenges available, but even by taking one or two, Year 12. Everything is different. As well from home, but also sharing a common and rewrites my expectations, reframing the capacity to change is significant. as this, I am able to experience a whole I struggled to prevent myself from gaping at the towering ceilings and the branch of new opportunities such as well-polished lustrous floors' herringbone parquet. doing yoga during what is Games, not PE, [DOWNSIDE] CHALLENGES AND REWRITES MY EXPECTATIONS.

42 Exploring the Unknown Exploring the Unknown 43 FROM THE ARCHIVES STRENGTH THROUGH ADVERSITY

ertullian, an early Father of the degrees of sanctity. In thirteenth-century Benedictine monks, Ildephonsus Hesketh, His diary, kept in the abbey’s archives, is a Church, famously wrote that, ‘the Lyon a French dog was widely revered as Boniface Kemp and William Middleton, moving account of his final journey detailing blood of the martyrs is the seed a saint and was known as ‘St Guinefort’ all ministering to the Royalist armies at his movements from 1st September 1939 to Tof the Church.’ The monastic community after miracles were reported at the canine’s Marston Moor died of forced labour by the 31st May 1940: there is no entry for the 1st of St Gregory the Great has six members grave. Church authorities were quick to Parliamentary forces. Downside’s own Dom June. Presumed dead, it was not until March who have been formally recognised by the suppress the cult! Pope Paul VI reformed Norbert Birt wrote that they were ‘worried 1941 that a Requiem Mass was offered by Church as being ‘martyrs’, St John Roberts the process again in 1969, he himself to death’. A more accurate description was the monks of Downside for the repose of (1610), St Ambrose Barlow recognised by the Church as that they were savagely beaten, possibly his soul. His grave was later identified by the (1641), Blessed George a saint in 2018. Though tortured and made to endure such hard French Red Cross that year. Gervase (1608), we revere and pray labour that the three perished in 1644. Blessed Maurus to the saints, we Some died ‘in chains’ such as the monks All these men kept firm to their faith and Scott (1612), are reminded Benedict Cox (1648), Benedict Constable their conscience in the service of others Blessed Philip with the feast (1681) and Placid Adelham (1689) who all when times were bleak. Their lives provided Powell (1646) of All Saints perished in prison. a witness to others. Meeting death on and Blessed that there the scaffold, in prison or on the beaches Thomas are men and The year 2020 marks the eightieth of Dunkirk these Benedictine monks and Pickering women who anniversary of the Evacuation of Dunkirk. brothers demonstrated strength and (1679). All are saints Downside has had a rich tradition of triumphed through adversity. were martyred that have not sending military chaplains to serve the for being been formally faithful (and the not so faithful) since Catholic (most as acknowledged: the Boer War. Dom Stephen Rawlinson St John Roberts priests) though the one does not organised the provision of Catholic Dom Gervase Hobson Matthews Protestant authorities ‘become’ a saint, one is chaplains to the Front during the Great did their best to maintain that ‘recognised’ by the Church as War and Dom Ethelbert Horne and Dom they were executed for political crimes so. The trials and tribulations of a holy life Raymund Webster, later monastic librarian, against the crown, not for their conscience. are not always met with death on a scaffold. were some of the men who served In the seventeenth century there was a The Benedictines in England have had their between 1914 and 1918. Dom Gervase thin line between politics and religion. In fair share of men who have died as ‘martyrs Hobson Matthews was ordained in 1928 by 1588 Pope Sixtus V established the Sacred of charity’ – those who have died for the Bishop Burton at Downside. From 1939 he Congregation of Rites to regulate the Faith knowing that their ministry to others served as an army chaplain providing much process of beatification and canonisation: either sacramental, pastoral or an act of needed comfort to the war weary troops ALL THESE MEN KEPT FIRM TO THEIR FAITH AND beforehand the process had not always faith, love or charity, would ultimately lead heading to the beaches of Dunkirk. He did THEIR CONSCIENCE IN THE SERVICE OF OTHERS been clear. Sometimes local cults developed to their death. Many are relatively unknown. not discriminate against nationality and, WHEN TIMES WERE BLEAK. to the most obscure people with varying During the English Civil War three where others fled, refused to leave his men.

Blessed Thomas Pickering

44 From the Archives From the Archives 45 Ben Harwood, Fifth Form Peter Gao, Fifth Form Autumn Pan, Fifth Form Shintaro Kambara, Sixth Form

THE GCSE AND A LEVEL ARTWORK PRODUCED BEFORE LOCKDOWN SHOWS, YET AGAIN, THE DIVERSE RANGE OF CREATIVE APPROACHES FROM OUR YOUNG ARTISTS. ALL OUR PUPILS ARE ENCOURAGED AND SUPPORTED TO EXPLORE NEW SKILLS AND TECHNIQUES, AND TO EXPRESS THEMSELVES MIXED ARTISTICALLY, WHETHER IT BE FOR DIGITAL ART, SCULPTURE OR TEXTILE DESIGN.

The Downside Art Department neighbours the Design & Technology MEDIA Department – very handy for pupils who want to use the facilities there to help with their art projects, such as the 3D laser cutter or wood carving tools. The Art Department also has a Mac Studio for digital design and, new this year, a print screen room thanks to the generous donations to our Annual Fund. The department is very popular among pupils; as well as timetabled lessons, pupils can join in with activity sessions after school and at weekends.

Elinor Perkins, Fifth Form Isabella Fu, Fifth Form

46 Mixed Media Mixed Media 47 Doja Manzo, Sixth Form

Rosebud Morrogh Bernard, Sixth Form

Oliver Wood, Fifth Form

For example, Doja Manzo created ink and bleach figurative paintings and portraits on the theme of government corruption in Nigeria. Rosebud Morrogh Bernard produced some stunning textile pieces representing the destruction of the coral reefs, and Shintato Kambara explored Edward Preston, Fifth Form shattered portraits using digital drawing.

Monty Mathew, Fifth Form Isabella van Laar, Sixth Form. Christina Zheng, Fifth Form Max Chong, Fifth Form Modelled by Arianwen Ramruttun, Fourth Form

48 Mixed Media Mixed Media 49 Speakers for the event were straight- protein, essential fats, carbohydrates, fibre, talking thought leader Jamal Benmiloud, plus 26 vitamins and minerals and contains Acting Director of Education, Outreach, no animal products. and Programmes at the Institute of Economic Affairs Ralph Buckle, and Ralph Buckle spoke about the future of entrepreneur David Crellin from the economy and gave pupils ‘reasons to education technology company be optimistic’, for example the decline in (and Downside’s business partner) global poverty. To finish the event, David ScienceScope. Crellin talked on the importance of data collection via the Internet of Things (IoT) Jamal Benmiloud kicked off the event and how it can be used to make better with ‘The Future of Food’, highlighting the decisions for a sustainable future. need to change the way we view, produce and consume food. He introduced pupils ‘We are Tomorrow’ was a thought- to Huel, a convenient and nutritionally provoking conference – reflecting the IDEAS WORTH complete meal replacement drink that very aim of TEDx talks – that of produces zero food waste and has minimal research, discovery and encouraging impact on animals and the environment. communities to talk and work together TALKING ABOUT A Huel meal provides the right amount of for a better future.

DOWNSIDE SCHOOL HELD ITS INAUGURAL TEDx TALK ‘WE ARE TOMORROW’ THIS YEAR. THE EVENT, WHICH FOCUSSED ON THE FUTURE OF FOOD, ECONOMICS AND TECHNOLOGY, WAS ABLY ORGANISED AND HOSTED BY HEAD GIRL GEORGIA AND HEAD BOY MATEUSZ WHO HAVE SET UP THE SERIES OF Georgia and Mateusz reflect on their host was similar to that of an – little did we know, at that time – that TALKS AS THEIR LEGACY TO DOWNSIDE. TEDx journey during lockdown: obstacle course, but even more virtual life was about to become the norm. As Heads of School, we started this challenging was finding available speakers academic year with the objective of on the afternoon. The event would not have been such a hosting the inaugural TEDx event here success and we would not have learned so at Downside. Being academically curious With four weeks to the event, we had much from it without these challenges, and ourselves, and knowing the level of our milestones reached and completed, we would not have been able to bring it to academic calibre, we wanted to give all five speakers set and ready for the date completion without the guiding hand of Mr students an opportunity to understand decided (Friday 13th, we didn’t think the Bryson, and the support of all those in our what our future is likely to hold, so we can superstition around this date would play Downside community. better understand what the changes we any role in our conference…we were want to bring might be. Through our TEDx wrong). Not only did we lose two speakers We hope that this is only the beginning of event we hope that we gave fellow pupils in the leading weeks of the event due to TEDx at Downside, and we look forward to the opportunity to gain an inside into what the approaching pandemic, the morning handing the licence to the future Head Boy our ‘tomorrow’ might look like, and to help of the event, our third speaker had to let and Head Girl teams taking the event from us not to be afraid, but excited. us know that he was unable to make it to strength to strength, and watching how it school, also due to Covid-19. However, we grows; maybe even a conference where we We applied for the original licence at and My Bryson (organiser of the weekly could both return and be a part of. the end of the 2019 summer term, evening Sixth Form Lecture Series) were with months of frantic email checking, undaunted and managed to arrange Georgia Bolton and Mateusz Kapustka the licence was finally approved in late another third speaker – Mr Benmiloud. November. Finding an afternoon free to He was able to join us virtually via Skype

50 Ideas Worth Talking About Ideas Worth Talking About 51 HOW DOWNSIDE SCHOOL IS LEADING THE WAY TO EMPOWER YOUNG PEOPLE TO BECOME GLOBAL CITIZENS.

It has never been more imperative that we learn to work together across the globe to meet the needs of the world today, without compromising our beautiful planet and its resources for future generations. It is undeniable that the lack of human movement due to Covid-19 has had a remarkable positive impact on the environment. Governments and organisations are promising to build back sustainably, and communities won’t expect anything less.

Before the global pandemic of Covid-19, Downside became involved with Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) – a growing international programme enabling people of all ages and cultures to gain the right knowledge, skills and behaviours to help contribute to a more sustainable future.

UNESCO describes ESD as ‘empowering [young] people to be ‘global citizens’’ and enabling them to ‘become proactive contributors to creating a more just, peaceful, tolerant, inclusive, secure and sustainable world.’ Even before Covid- 19, we felt that ESD was particularly vital for younger generations, and so decided to head up a collaborations project with ScienceScope, the School’s education technology business partner, to promote ESD at Downside and schools across

Set in 500 acres of beautiful countryside, Downside has a number of sustainability projects in place including temperature sensors around the School to monitor energy usage for heating.

EDUCATION FOR Downside Deputy Head Mike Randall and Alex Wright from SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT ScienceScope present at the Tokyo Conference.

52 Education for Sustainable Development Education for Sustainable Development 53 The Conference involved round-table discussions with representatives from 51 countries including the Japanese government, non-governmental organisations, charities, educators, businesses and experts in the field of education. Delegates discussed how they and their organisations are currently implementing the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SGDs) which were set down by the UN in 2015 – goals which include ‘No Poverty’, ‘Zero Hunger’, ‘Affordable and Clean Energy’, ‘Sustainable Cities’ and ‘Communities and Climate Action’. The United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Asia, Europe and Oceania. The project, which aims to bring the Internet of Things (IoT) Development Goals and ‘big data’ into classroom, is leading best practice at Downside, bringing sustainable During the Conference, Downside Deputy Head Mike Randall and Alex Wright development matters into teaching and learning and empowering young people to be from ScienceScope presented the collaborations project to delegates. One part of creative in dealing with real world issues and using ‘big data’ to make better informed the project involves the use of weather stations across the globe, connected to the decisions. Elements of the project cover climate change and sustainable consumption. internet, which gather and share real-time big data to assess climate change. The use of such live data in the classroom, rather than a static text book, creates engaging, As part of their ESD programme, Downside represented the UK at the Asia-Europe interactive and currently relevant learning experiences for pupils and teachers alike. Foundation Conference (ASEF) in November 2019. Held in Tokyo, 1,700 schools from The findings of the collaborations project led by Downside will be shared with across Asia, Europe and Oceania applied for a chance to present at the policy-making event, governing bodies, councils and governments, helping to affect permanent policy change which focussed on ESD, as well as the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), in the classroom. and shape a more sustainable future.

54 Education for Sustainable Development Education for Sustainable Development 55 FUTURE PROOF FOOD

OUR PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN Eating a generally sustainable diet also That said, we would like to do more to SUSTAINABILITY AND NUTRITION – means you can: implement sustainable nutrition into FROM HOLROYD HOWE, DOWNSIDE’S • Lower consumption of animal products other areas. FABULOUS CATERERS. such as meat and dairy • Eat less processed foods What are the aims for Future Proof Food? Holroyd Howe take their responsibility • Consume more plant foods • To be inclusive to everyone towards nutrition at Downside seriously. • Consume more local and seasonal foods • To reduce the impact on the environment They understand the impact a healthy • Waste less food. • To encourage heathier options diet has on these important years of • To increase awareness through education development. Just as seriously, however, This is better for both the planet and us on why a sustainable diet is needed is their consideration of sustainable foods, because: • To have no compromise on taste and, as such, have recently introduced a Altering your diet to consume fewer • To reduce food waste new food initiative: Future Proof Food. animal products is the single biggest way • To eat more locally and seasonally to reduce your carbon footprint, and your • To provide a list of key features to What is Future Proof Food? impact on the environment. For example, pick and choose from as the initiative Future Proof Food from Holroyd Howe reducing your meat consumption by half commences and proceeds so balanced enables our caterers to adapt a more can cut your food-related carbon footprint is achieved. sustainable diet into our School. The by a whopping 35%.** Forming part of a initiative links sustainability and nutrition balanced nutritious diet, this change can During lockdown Holroyd Howe have firmly together to ensure that what we have positive impacts on us healthwise, also started Home School Bistro – a new can grow now is also available for future as we will consume less saturated fat, resource to help families cook and learn generations, thus using the Earth’s resources sugar and salt, and, in turn, increase our about delicious, nutritious food whilst home responsibly whilst eating more healthily. consumption of vegetables and fibre. schooling and in isolation. The definition for a sustainable diet is one that ‘has a low environmental impact, Some key characteristics of a sustainable To find out more about Home contributes to food and nutrition security, diet have been reflected in our school School Bistro please visit as well as to a healthy life[style] for present menus for quite some time, such as local www.downside.co.uk/home-school-bistro/ and future generations’.* sourcing, high animal welfare standards and an encouragement to eat seasonally.

* Ref: Food and Agricultural organisation (FAO) 2010 ** See One Blue Dot BDA for more information.

56 Future Proof Food Future Proof Food 57 WHAT’S IN A JOB?

THE CAREERS AND GAP YEAR FAIR IS JUST ONE ELEMENT OF THE VIBRANT CAREERS PROGRAMME AT DOWNSIDE, WHICH STARTS FROM THE FIRST FORM.

This year, members of the Third Form completed a psychometric test to help them identify their interests and skills; the Maths department organised a trip to Bletchley Park for pupils to learn how mathematicians contributed to code-breaking in the war. Mr Hunt, Head of Chemistry, organised the Walnut Lecture in March (see p22), exploring the diverse range of careers open to scientists. Members of the Fifth Form and Upper Sixth had individual guidance interviews with FutureSmart Careers, and the Lower Sixth had theirs via Zoom. The Classics department has taken some of the younger pupils to meet archaeologists to talk to them about career opportunities. Mrs Craig took the librarians to the Bodleian Library in Oxford, and Dr Vanessa Wilkins conducted suturing workshops for pupils interested in studying Medicine.

In September, the new Fifth Form will have their first guidance meetings with FutureSmart after they have completed their psychometric testing (which is usually undertaken at the end of the Fourth Form). All of these events, and many others, are designed to give Downside pupils exposure to a wide range of career paths connected directly or indirectly to the subjects they are studying, reinforcing the relevance and importance of their academic curriculum in equipping them for the world of work.

A Careers Seminar is held every year when Old Gregorians (OGs) return to Downside to speak to the Sixth Form about various career options, pathways to get to them there, and likely pitfalls on the way. As pupils go on to university and feel clearer about the direction they are likely to take, we can put them in touch with OGs willing to mentor them, provide work experience or just have an informal chat.

If you would like to contribute to Downside’s careers programme, please contact the Head of Careers Richard Rawlins: [email protected]

58 What’s in a Job? What’s in a Job? 59 KEEPING

By Fr James Hood, Lay Chaplain Paul Andrewartha THE FAITH & The St Scholastica Community

Service and Prayer at Downside are at the to deepen their understanding of lectio heart of who we are. Pupils and staff are from a more systematic approach, thereby strengthened in the knowledge that they enriching their experience in it. belong to a community focused on God’s love. The pandemic has given the School The Houses and the whole School community many new challenges: how can community have been encouraged and we continue to strengthen one another supported by the prayers and support of and reach out to others? With the School the Chaplains and the St Luke’s Community community dispersed in so many parts of who have provided the readers for the the world, how can we continue to listen to School Sunday Service. A member of the VERY HIGH LEVELS OF SPIRITUAL one another and support each another in Chaplaincy Team has visited the Houses at AND MORAL UNDERSTANDING the practice of our faith? their weekly assemblies, as well as recording ARE EVIDENT IN PUPILS OF ALL their thoughts and prayers. BELIEFS OR NONE IN RESPONSE The St Teresa’s Community has responded TO THE SCHOOL’S BENEDICTINE by encouraging the whole School We have all had to respond to new ETHOS. ISI Report community to serve, to think about our challenges. The important thing is that families, the homeless, those in care we have continued to reach out to homes, those who run small businesses. our community, and we hope that our The strength to reach out to others has thoughts and prayers have strengthened come from praying together, listening all in this time of global crisis. It has been to the scriptures and the Word of God distressing that all have been deprived in lectio. of the reception of the sacraments. A particular sadness was that the Bishop The St John’s Community has continued was unable to come to administer the to lead the School in its life of lectio by Sacrament of Confirmation in May. Our encouraging pupils who have never had Sunday Mass is a moment when the the opportunity to pray and meditate whole School community gathers as one on the Word of God to try it. The lectio to pray but also to encounter Christ in leaders, have, as always, drawn much communion, in the reception of the Body strength from the Word of God in these and Blood of Christ. Although there has sessions. An important achievement been a sense of loss for some during was the holding of the first lectio divina lockdown, keeping our faith is helping us workshop at Downside, enabling pupils weather the storm.

60 Keeping the Faith Keeping the Faith 61 THIS ACADEMIC YEAR SAW THE PUBLICATION OF TESSERA – A TRIUMPH OF INTELLECTUAL CURIOSITY, THOUGHT AND REFLECTION WRITTEN ON A PALIMPSEST OF ACADEMIC ENDEAVOUR.

Academic study in schools has increasingly been reduced to utility – knowledge and training in skills for personal success and material prosperity. At Downside we consciously resist this utilitarian approach and the intention of Tessera is to celebrate intellectual exploration and discovery for their own sake. The implication of the title (a tessera is a mosaic tile) is that each piece of work stands as a separate entity, but makes a strong, vital and unique contribution to the overall picture. It is an eclectic and exciting collection of work. This reflects our principles as a Benedictine school. We uphold and advocate the value of each individual so that he or she can flourish and thereby contribute most fully to building a harmonious and purposeful community.

It is humbling to read work of such depth and quality produced by our pupils and a poignant reminder that we should recognise how ambiguous the dividing line is between who is teaching and who is learning.

If you would like a copy of the 2019 edition of the Tessera, please email [email protected]. The 2020 edition will be available from September 2020.

62 Tessera Tessera 63 DESIGN FOR LIFE AT THE BEGINNING OF LOCKDOWN FIFTH FORMER SEBASTIAN STRACHWITZ HAMILTON COMBINED HIS GCSE DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY SKILLS WITH HIS NEW PASSION FOR FITNESS TRAINING. THE RESULT IS A FULLY FUNCTIONAL WEIGHTS BENCH FROM SCRATCH AT HOME, COMPLETE WITH SAFETY BARS FOR THE CHAIR WEIGHTS. OF He says: “I designed and made this bench to give me a goal to work towards, knowing that I would be able to maintain my fitness, strength and wellbeing during quarantine GOVERNORS before I can get back in the gym at Downside”. WE ARE DELIGHTED TO ANNOUNCE THAT DR GILES At the School Sebastian benefits from being able to use the facilities in the Design MERCER WAS APPOINTED AS CHAIR OF GOVERNORS AT Department at weekends, as part of the school’s busy weekend programme of activities, as DOWNSIDE SCHOOL FROM 20TH JUNE 2020. well as his timetabled Design lessons during the week. Andrew Hobbs, Head Master, said of the news, Sebastian has chosen to continue with Design at A level along with Sport, Physics and “We are privileged to have Dr Mercer as our new Chair of Business Studies at Downside’s Sixth Form. Our Sixth Form provides young people with Governors and I look forward to working with him to continue a stepping stone to life beyond school; it offers plenty of opportunity for leadership and the development of Downside, building on the legacy of service, and promotes independent learning and thought. If this sounds like a Sixth Form Adrian Aylward, his predecessor.” for you, please email our Admissions Team to find out more: [email protected] Dr Mercer, former Head Master of Stonyhurst and Prior Park Schools, has long been close to Downside. As a devout Catholic and a distinguished historian and published author, he is a regular visitor to the Monastery Archives and Library and often attends Mass at Downside’s Abbey Church. His credentials as a leading educationalist are second to none and his vast wealth of experience will be extremely valuable as he takes the helm at Downside.

64 Design for Life New Chair of Governors 65 normal’. The pupils of St Gregory’s in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries would have been familiar with plague which FROM THE ARCHIVES blighted society sporadically until the mid- eighteenth century. The so-called Spanish GREGORIAN BOARDING BEFORE ZOOM Influenza of 1918-20 mercifully spared any real impact on the School and Monastery as it did with most of the schools of the n 1606 Abbot Caverel granted the Downside inventions but pre-dated Cassocks, and sometimes, like ravenous English Benedictine Congregation with English and Welsh monks of St Gregory’s the current school by almost a century. Wolves, to make bold Incursions into the some exception. Life was, however, tough. several houses to form a priory and Pupils wore a cassock and a gown, rather Kitchen, and there plunder and carry away Many pupils had parents at home who were Ia chapel. The foundation charter, kept in different from the current uniform in 2020. all we can meet with.’ persecuted for their Catholic Faith, some the Abbey’s archive, has no mention of In the abbey’s archives, there is an account were imprisoned, and the link between a school though we know, that by 1622, of the regime that pupils had to live under A pupil’s day began at 5.00am immediately pupil and parent was through the packet- a thriving school was attached to the in exile, far from home, and without Zoom. followed by lessons until 7.30am when boat and via letter. priory. The monks taught in the school In the school dormitory and calefactory there was a half hour for washing and and whilst some pupils were destined for (warming room) there were fires which breakfast. At 8.00am there was a further Dr Johnson’s famous Dictionary of 1755 holy orders, most were lay pupils in need were only lit in the evenings: errant pupils three hours of lessons until prayers at made no mention of ‘Zoom’ though he of a Catholic education. It was illegal for were known to tear into town to steal 11.00am. Dinner was served at noon would have, no doubt, been a fan. Catholics to educate their children in their wood to followed by Lycée Corot, Douai own country so the Benedictines joined the provide more more study from Philippe de Caverel engraved portrait 1633 Map of Douai circa mid-Eighteenth Century growing market for Catholic education in warmth. The 1.00pm for a the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries best meals further hour. amongst a competitive market of schools were reserved From 2.00pm until run by Jesuits and secular clergy. The School for the most 4.30pm, more was never more than 50 pupils throughout learned pupils lessons, followed its history but in 1770, a major rebuilding – a great by recreation, programme of the school, suggested that incentive to more lessons times were becoming more prosperous for learn if not a from 5.00pm Catholic education in Continental exile. little harsh. until supper at Breakfast 6.00pm followed The former priory of St Gregory, removed was bread by play and bed. to Shropshire in 1814, is now the Lycée and butter, One pupil wrote: Corot in Douai. The spacious corridors and lunch was ‘We have a renaissance style windows are reflected half a pound capacious Area in Downside’s current buildings, designed of ‘boiled or Yard, wherein by Leonard Stokes between the Roberts Meat, with a is a Terras Walk, Tower and the old Worth Block of Sir Porringer of and a place very Giles Gilbert Scott. It was hoped that the Broth’, and suitable and school in Douai would be the centralised at supper, proper from educational ‘house’ for the English ‘the same the Exercise Benedictine Congregation but the French Allowance of Roast with a Sallad.’ At feast of Hand-Ball, in which we with great Revolution put an end to that. days pupils were allowed extra bread and Emulation, strove to surpass each other.’ beer. Lent, however, was a little more We know from the school’s accounts of trying: pupils were, ‘debarr’d even from a We have all experienced the restrictions 1721-26 that the custom of the ‘Christmas Crust of Bread or a Draught of Beer, which of lockdown in these trying times of Covid- Court’ and the ‘Boy King’ were not makes us frequently convey under our 19 and we now live in an age of the ‘new

66 From the Archives From the Archives 67 Sports scholars helping young The foundational values of Downside To use our strengths effectively, it is skills and abilities through #tricktuesday; pupils with their rugby skills. Sport are derived from our Benedictine important to have a clear idea of what we interacted with pupils and staff traditions and underpin an integral they are and how they can be used. via a live Zoom fitness circuit during framework of sport and physical activity Some of our greatest strengths might #workoutwednesday; we highlighted the at the School. We aim to develop be easy to recognise, while others go importance of reflection and analysis young people as strong, resilient leaders unnoticed because they feel ordinary to during #thinkingthursday and we provided of character that can excel in sport, us. This sense of perspective and the culinary inspiration on #foodiefriday. school and life. Whilst the landscape opportunity to get to know one’s These posts provided a wide variety of school sport undoubtedly changed strengths and passions better was a of opportunities for pupils to try new because of the global pandemic, the key feature of the sports programme experiences and find new talents. The mindset with which our pupils and staff during remote learning. emotional wellbeing of the pupils was approached this would determine their supported by a weekly newsletter ability to navigate uncertainty, boost self- Throughout lockdown Downside Sport entitled Euexia (the ancient Greek confidence, identify personal strengths maintained a daily programme of support, word for wellbeing) which, alongside and provide hope for the future. People guidance and inspiration. Using Instagram, an accompanying tutorial programme, who know their strengths and use them Twitter and Facebook, we supported covered topics including the power of frequently are more successful. They feel the psychological development of our gratitude, how to cultivate passion, love SPORTS ON happier, have improved self-esteem and pupils through #mentalhealthmonday; we and kindness, emotional intelligence and LOCKDOWN are more likely to achieve their goals. challenged pupils to develop their physical the value of perseverance. #mentalhealthmonday #tricktuesday #workoutwednesday #thinkingthursday #foodiefriday

There have been many changes in our life of a vibrant and busy HMC boarding world in recent times, but one aspect school, Covid-19 and social distancing that has remained consistent has been restrictions gave our School community our commitment at Downside to provide the opportunity to reflect on the the best possible support, guidance and enjoyment, achievement and value that encouragement to our pupils. This was we all gain from taking part in sport and particularly important during lockdown physical activity. It was clearly not possible and for the Remote Learning Programme for the traditional cricket, tennis, athletics (see p26) at the School between March and and swimming fixture programmes to June 2020. After the initial disappointment continue, but our sports development felt by pupils and staff alike, who faced a philosophy already emphasised the long period without sport and physical significance of a positive mental attitude Richard Jones, Director of Sport activity at Downside, it became quickly and exceptional work ethic. It was clear that, instead of viewing the restrictions therefore important that, during a global through a lens of negativity, it would be pandemic, this was modelled, enabled and Fifth Former sports scholar important to recognise the opportunity actioned positively. We remained true to Maria Dolman enjoying one- that Covid-19 had given us to be thankful. our core purpose and our guiding values to-one tennis coaching as of discipline, humility and stewardship. lockdown restrictions ease. Sport and physical activity make an These became vital to the success of the important contribution to the physical, 'Remote Learning Programme' our pupils psychological and emotional wellbeing of benefitted from throughout the extended young people. As part of the Co-curricular period of lockdown.

68 Sports on Lockdown Sports on Lockdown 69 Talking about mental health problems is or socially distanced get-togethers with Sports scholars and members of the as the ‘Run to the Holy Land’ Strava Research has shown that only a third something that doesn’t come easily to most close friends or family. Athlete Development Programme group, finally reaching Jerusalem on 22nd of people have an active awareness of pre-teens / teenagers. With many struggling (ADP) were invited to access Coach June. A superb effort by all involved. their strengths (Peterson & Seligman, during the current pandemic, it may be that At school the Downside Health Centre is Logic, a collaborative video analysis 2004). Imagine a world where we all young people find expressing their worries the perfect place for pupils to take a break platform developed for ambitious sports During the final four weeks of the knew and used our strengths to their full and feelings even more difficult. They may from school work and pop in to talk to the performers and teams. This excellent Summer Term, Government advice and potential. As a result of Covid-19, pupils see their parents or older siblings feeling the nursing staff or our on-site counsellor. The addition to our sports programme guidance from National Governing Bodies at Downside have benefited from the pressure and feel unable to ask for help. Centre has a holistic vibe which reflects enabled coaching staff to communicate meant that we were finally able to deliver opportunity to develop their academic its nurse-led approach. As well as physical with pupils in an environment that aimed a phased return to some one-to-one and strengths and independent learning style The normal structure of all our lives has treatment rooms, there is a counsellor’s to provide opportunities for greater team small group sports coaching at the School. in new ways. They have also gained a changed and with that there is a sense of room with beautiful and relaxing views and development and challenged our most Over 50 pupils eagerly took up the better understanding of their physical, Michelle Pye, Head of Nursing loss. Some young people may feel angry – a breakout dormitory where pupils can able performers to be better versions of invitation to participate in cricket, tennis, psychological and emotional strengths. As they can’t move freely, see their friends as watch films away from the hubbub of their themselves during lockdown. rugby and hockey coaching following social a result, we can all look to the future with much, take their exams or physically study House. Planned for the Autumn are a chill- distancing rules. Inevitably, after nearly 12 considerable hope and ambition. at their university or college of choice. out room with sensory resources and an The ‘Run to Rome’ Strava group (which weeks of isolation, all pupils (and I daresay We need to be careful to acknowledge outdoor relaxation area to make the most evolved to include over 90 present and their parents!) were absolutely thrilled to Richard Jones the concerns of our young people, to be of the benefit of quiet time in the open air. former pupils, parents and staff) began on be able to return to school in a safe and Director of Sport there for them, take time to listen, offer With all this wellbeing help and support 26th April and eventually completed 3,466 supportive environment and rediscover reassurance and enable them to connect on hand parents can feel comforted that miles. Having reached Rome by May Half the enjoyment that can only be found with supportive communities external to Downside is taking the very best care of Term it decided to subsequently continue when playing sport alongside friends. home – school, for example, their church, their children, physically and mentally.

WE REMAINED TRUE TO OUR CORE PURPOSE AND OUR GUIDING VALUES OF DISCIPLINE, HUMILITY AND STEWARDSHIP. THESE BECAME VITAL TO THE SUCCESS OF THE REMOTE LEARNING PROGRAMME OUR PUPILS BENEFITTED FROM THROUGHOUT THE EXTENDED PERIOD OF LOCKDOWN. WELLBEING

Happy to get back into the nets – sports scholar Nicolas Viljoen with Head of Cricket George Setterfield. & HEALTH

70 Sports on Lockdown Health & Wellbeing 71 t Downside, we ensure that followed by a delicious – and very popular weekends are carefully planned – brunch. In addition, the Art, Design and Aand include a range of exciting Music departments are open on Sunday and interesting activities to suit all our pupils. afternoons for all pupils to get creative After Saturday morning school and afternoon and inventive. sporting fixtures – which include day pupils as well – there is a wide variety of activity Parents are most welcome to attend the options to get pre-teens and teens off their Saturday sporting fixtures, which are always digital devices, engaged with each other and followed by one of our famous Match Teas. their environment, and trying new things. Every year, on a Sunday, each of the Houses hosts ‘House at Home’ for families to spend The weekend programme includes quality time together with their children on ‘Downside Active’ (swimming, basketball, a weekend. These events are one of the squash, archery and fitness training, etc.), highlights of the weekend programme and trips out for kayaking, ice skating, the include a welcome from the House Master cinema or shopping, and BBQs in the or Mistress, Sunday Mass, short performing Theatre Quad with plenty of fun and games arts pieces from the pupils and a delicious to boot. We also have Mass on Sundays Sunday lunch.

PUPILS COMMENTED THAT DIFFERENT CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES PLAY AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN DEVELOPING THEIR CONFIDENCE. ISI Report

WE DON'T STOP AT

WEEKENDS72 We Don’t Stop at Weekends We Don’t Stop at Weekends 73 CARE IN A CRISIS DIRECTOR OF PASTORAL CARE CLAIRE MURPHY SHARES HER EXPERIENCE OF THE CHALLENGES SHE HAS FACED IN HER ROLE DURING LOCKDOWN.

How has your role changed since for a few social gatherings by Zoom which abreast of the government updates and our own Covid-Safe Information, and lockdown? helped to keep spirits high. guidelines so that we could plan for every there will be practical changes around In essence, the nature of my role did possible scenario for the new academic the School to keep us safe. There are not change during lockdown, however, The most striking difference was the year and welcoming pupils back to school. WE ARE BLESSED WITH BEAUTIFUL BUILDINGS AND STUNNING plenty of opportunities to create new the way I had to do things changed silence and stillness around the School. The guidance changed frequently, keeping GROUNDS AND, WHILST I ENJOYED THE PEACEFULNESS AND TIME social spaces, both inside and outside the enormously. The start of the term began We are blessed with beautiful buildings me on my toes and it certainly made my FOR REFLECTION, I HAVE GREATLY MISSED THE LIFE, LAUGHTER AND school buildings to promote friendships with staff training by Zoom, with a focus and stunning grounds and, whilst I enjoyed brain work hard! The House Masters and JOY THAT COMES FROM THE PUPILS. and increase social engagement. Prefect on safeguarding online and highlighting the peacefulness and time for reflection, I Mistresses were, as always, fantastic in roles and training will be developed further the importance of using the current have greatly missed the life, laughter and embracing change and ensuring that the and new leadership roles available for pastoral and safeguarding systems to joy that comes from the pupils. Houses are fully prepared. justice and peace for the poor. The School Virtual Sports Day. The willingness different age groups. There will be a focus identify any pupils who may require was also fortunate to be able to support to try something new and to get on positive support with the use of pupil extra support. The Houses are at the What are the challenges during a global We are known for the strength across our a local council initiative for the homeless involved is a sign of the strength of mentors and the creation of many more heart of the School community so we pandemic? community. What examples of that have in a practical way during lockdown with the whole community and was a real opportunities for outreach and charity identified different ways to maintain this At Downside, we embrace the idea you seen since lockdown? the caterers providing cooked meals celebration of a global school coming work throughout the School. Additional through a mixture of live assemblies, of maintaining a growth mind-set and I have heard of so many examples of and offering emotional support for together as one. time and support will be given to recorded house items and newsletters. being open to change, learning from pupils and staff supporting the School some vulnerable people in temporary supporting mental wellbeing and address Morning tutor time was incredibly failure and stepping out of our comfort and wider community during lockdown, accommodation during lockdown. What new pastoral plans do you have and equip pupils to respond to issues important for each pupil to have regular zones. A crisis always throws up from from shopping for neighbours to when we can safely return to school? linked to coronavirus. contact with their tutor to start the day, challenges and a global pandemic gave working with the homeless or collecting Lectio divina continued with groups Plans are progressing quickly as we are discuss challenges, find solutions and us numerous opportunities for growth items for refugees. Reaching out to meeting remotely and finding the calm all thrilled to have the School back here Lockdown has brought many challenges enjoy being with their friends. Mr Jones and development. Having to quickly learn selflessly help others and demonstrating and peace in reflection and listening to the and enjoy the excited buzz around the but with every challenge comes an produced resources and a programme new technology was both exciting and the compassion and concern for the Word of God speaking directly to each of corridors again. We have adopted the opportunity and with that, a chance for for tutor groups to learn about different exhausting and everyone learnt from individual is one of our Benedictine values us. Hymn Practice on Friday afternoons BSA Covid-Safe Charter as a basis for hope, change and action. aspects of wellbeing and tutors kept the each other, staff and pupils alike; it was and it has been heartening and moving to gave pupils an opportunity to talk to Housemasters and Housemistresses up to a two-way process where everyone was see so many acts of human kindness from the whole school about things they are date with the progress of each pupil, as a learner and everyone was a teacher. our community. passionate about, and the Sunday Service well as raising any concerns. We were all constantly trying to build on led by Dom James brought us all together what we had mastered the day before, Without planning, there seemed to to share a few moments united in prayer. Michelle Pye, Head of Nursing, was still able to find new ways to improve remote be an ongoing theme throughout the to keep in touch with pupils via Zoom and teaching and learning, to ensure nobody term of outreach and raising awareness A vibrant and active community spirit was phone calls, and the House Masters and was left behind and we were all giving the for vulnerable people in our society. evident through the House assemblies Mistresses worked together throughout the best possible experience we could deliver. This included the work of St. Teresa’s and school events. VE Day (see p12) was term, both remotely and in school. Staff There were so many positives to come Community who gave us all a weekly a huge success with a huge number of fun meetings continued online which gave the out of the situation, many of which will service challenge, the Beyond Downside talk and exciting challenges logged on a school staff a good opportunity to see each other continue into the future. from Iona White about her charity, Help padlet for everyone to share. 2 Days in and to discuss the challenges of the term, for Homeless, and a talk from Fr Richard June provided more opportunities for fun Claire is a keen sportswoman and teaches pupils various co-curricular activities share best practice and plan ahead for the As the Director of Pastoral Care, one McKay during the 2 Days in June event, and games and I was stunned by the large including kayaking, sailing and CCF. new academic year, as well as a chance of my personal challenges was to keep speaking about the charity Borderlands, and number of pupils who took part in our

74 Care in a Crisis Care in a Crisis 75 OVER THE PAST FEW YEARS WE HAVE ENJOYED WELCOMING Languages Day PRIMARY AND PREP SCHOOLS TO DOWNSIDE FOR A As part of our on-going initiative highlighting the importance of learning VARIETY OF ‘EXPERIENCE DAYS’. a foreign language from a young age, we hold a Languages Experience SCHOOL Day twice a year. For the February 2020 event, we were joined by Year Visiting pupils have the opportunity to try new challenges, 5 pupils from Farleigh School and Sandroyd Prep, Dorset. Downside PARTNERSHIPS explore the School and meet our friendly pupils and staff. It’s not is part of a European literature initiative, and so the event was a one-way street, either. In turn, we benefit greatly from the joy timed to coincide with World Book Day, combining a celebration of and energy that our young visitors and their teachers bring to international children’s literature with that of language learning. Downside. Moreover, some of our current pupils have come from these visiting schools, and enjoy seeing old friends.

Choral Day Imagine having the opportunity to sing in the breathtakingly beautiful Downside Abbey Church… Our Choral Experience Day gives Primary and Prep School children and their teachers the opportunity to do just that. Last September young singers from Kilmersdon Primary – just down the road from Downside – and Mentored by Downside Sixth Form linguists, pupils from both schools joined forces in teams Farleigh School, Andover, learnt two songs under the tutelage of to compete in various activities including a Euro Quiz and a Translation Task using a variety Director of Music, Mr McNamara, and Head of Academic Music, of different languages. They were tested on their knowledge of foreign heads of state, flags, Mr Bridges, and then performed them in the Abbey Church for languages, national anthems, celebrities, gastronomy, landmarks and capital cities and showed their families and Downsiders. excellent linguistic flair and resilience throughout the event. The day concluded with presentations to all the pupils, and a spot of well-deserved afternoon tea in the School’s Weld Café.

76 School Partnerships School Partnerships 77 Art Day As with Languages Day, Art Experience Day is a twice-yearly event. Over 30 Year 4 and 5 pupils from Heywood Prep made and bound sketchbooks using home-made marbled papers. They utilised other new skills and techniques learnt on the day from Head of Art Erica Williams and Artist-in-Residence Holly Warburton to decorate and add content to their books. The visitors also had the opportunity to explore the Artist-in-Residence’s studio and enjoy a short tour of the magnificent Abbey Church.

‘The best bit of today was the marbling.’ Heywood Prep Year 5 pupil

Cricket Festival In February the Sports Department welcomed over 60 pupils from Kilmersdon School, St Vigors & St Johns, Chilcompton, and Farrington Gurney Primary School to enjoy a spot of indoor cricket at the Downside KS1 Cricket Festival, with help from our fantastic Sixth Formers and #wearesomerset community coach Alex Taylor.

When we return to Downside in September we hope to continue our rewarding partnership work with Primary and Prep schools. We are planning a socially-distanced Bushcraft Experience Day as well as a Drums Day in the school grounds, if possible.

For more information about Downside Experience Days, please email us at [email protected] or call on 01761 235151.

78 School Partnerships School Partnerships 79 WANT TO TAKE PART? WE WANT YOU IN OUR TEAM We give you the strength to join in

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