26 February 2010 £1.70 Schools issue the DISCOVER THE CONTEMPORARYFriend QUAKER WAY

Quaker Schools write for the Friend the Friend INDEPENDENT QUAKER JOURNALISM SINCE 1843

CONTENTS – VOL 168 NO 9 I Am 3 A Quaker-educated perspective on I am the light and the dark the world I am life and death I am hope when there is no hope 4-6 Ackworth School I am solitude and a great crowd I am joy and sorrow 7-9 Bootham School I am a friendly word and look 10-12 Friends School Saffron Walden I am a kiss and a touch I am first love and love after many years 13-15 Leighton Park School I am the wind that touches your face I am the thunder and the lightning 16-18 The Mount School York I am the bird in the sky and the fish in the sea I am spring summer autumn winter 19-21 Sibford School I am the sun on a cloudy day I am the seas and the rivers 22-24 Sidcot School I am the land and the creatures 25 Spirit Rising I am the beginning and the end 26/28 Letters I am Gayle Yeomans 29 Friends & Meetings Gayle attends Stafford Meeting. Taken from Spirit Rising: Young Quakers Speak. See page 25.

Cover image: Danielle Peach on the World Challenge Expedition to Namibia taken by students from Ackworth School. Photo: Henrietta Lebetter. See page 4.

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2 the Friend, 26 February 2010 Young journalism A Quaker-educated perspective on the world

Judy Kirby introduces the Quaker schools special edition and explains why she commissioned it

We can all remember this… ‘we York Youth Council, the PeaceJam hope you will simply listen to the trudge to school, and we complain conferences and awareness of our young voices in these pages and that it’s too early, or too dark, or environment and others. But I was judge whether, with their candid too wet, or quite possibly all three’. heartened to glimpse through this approach, they are worthy future We’ve slept till the last minute the stirrings of individual attitudes bearers of the Quaker way. ‘and not many of us bother with to war and peace and spirituality. the luxury of the morning news’. Our sleepy pupil above reflected on We hope to carry features on other Oblivious then, to the wider world. how the clutter of his daily routine Quaker schools in Britain and This is a pupil at Sibford Quaker evaporated on hearing the suffering Ireland Yearly Meetings in due School describing one of his days. of others. course. But it is a Friday and ‘everyone Honesty in spiritual gathers to attend the last obstacle matters is surely a Quaker that lies between them and the trait? Listen to this pupil, weekend, the Friday Meeting’. And owning up to atheism – ‘I it is here that the awfulness of the am, and I believe I will world intrudes, as the gathered always be an atheist…’ school Meeting hears recordings Many modern Quakers from eyewitnesses of the Haitian are atheists, he says (I earthquake. Our scholar responds can almost hear some – ‘the weary travellers of the world of you seething!). After start to wake’. four years at his school, For a Friend editor, Quaker however, one can only schools are up there with ‘Are marvel at the place he’s Quakers Christian?’ as a bone of reached, describing a contention. So it is with some Quaker Week round- trepidation we present this special up meeting: ‘There was Schools’ issue, in which we have energy in the room, invited seven Friends schools in energy for change, to be Britain to write their own mini involved, all influenced versions of the magazine. They by Quakerism. I found were each given the same briefing myself on my feet, talking – produce three pages of comment, about this, my heart opinion, feature material and thumping, giving the first reviews. We thought the Eye page ministry of my life…’ a bit too idiosyncratic for kids to Whatever your views reproduce, but that could have about Quaker education, been a mistake! and I understand There is of course a lot about the controversy that school activities in here – the surrounds this issue, I Young gardeners at Sibford.

the Friend, 26 February 2010 3 Ackworth adventure World Challenge Expedition to Namibia

a few days though, we could stretched to the horizon. recognise people and talk to the We travelled further north to pupils individually rather than one of the largest safari parks in being mobbed! the world, only feet from rhino, Being at the school was elephant, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, the most important part of lions, kudo, springbok; it was so the expedition to me. It is different seeing these animals in something I have always wanted the wild. Our driver, Taz, had seen to do and it was brilliant. Seeing one leopard in seven years; we saw I have only just finished putting how thankful the teachers and three in an hour. all of my Namibia pictures up in pupils were for our work was really Our journey continued, but my study. It is strange looking at special. We were asked so many due to Taz becoming quite ill, we how much we actually experienced questions, ‘how many cows do you had to miss out on a few things in while we were there. own in England?’, ‘can you take me order to get him to hospital. We Our adventure starts back in to your school?’, ‘is it very green?’, still managed to visit the Himba Fifth Year, the first interest, the ‘is building your profession?’ The tribe, a tribe that hasn’t changed impossibility of raising well over Head even wanted Ackworth to its traditions in hundreds of years. £28,000 as a group, the first feelings be their sister school. We had a We learnt about their lives, met of excitement. After months and three-hour welcome with singing, their leaders and used some of the months of letters, bag packs, school dancing and speeches and an even dye they used to protect themselves fund-raisers, marathons, saving, longer goodbye with a barbecue, from the sun. It was really part-time jobs and generous which tasted so nice after porridge, interesting and so surreal. friends and family, we were on a bread and pasta. Heading south, eight hours plane to Namibia. We arrived in A highlight of the trip was this time. It was time for some Windloek – it was so cold, which the game of football and how relaxation – sandboarding. Sitting we were not expecting – dressed in important it was for the students. on top of a 110-metre dune, shorts and t-shirts like real tourists. To become so friendly and close to strapped to a piece of wood and We were met by Doo Doo, our the people we met was so nice. So attempting to survive the drop! driver, who took us to buy enough much happened at the school, and We then all had a go on the body food for ten days and also to buy I don’t have enough space to write boards, hurtling down on your a cement mixer, paint brushes, about it! front, reaching speeds of up to 80 varnish, rags, tiles, blackboard, After leaving in our new truck, km/h was such an adrenaline rush. paint, hammers, screwdrivers and a Mamba, we then went on a four- There is so much more that we lot more. day trek in the wild, evading bands did, and so many more stories we After a night in ‘the cardboard of baboons, being silent for up can tell. It was a fantastic trip, I box’, cold showers due to Rhys’ to an hour to avoid black rhino, had an insane month, spending it thirty-minute warm shower, and which would have been pretty scary with some really good friends and pancakes in the morning, we to see. Although the scariest thing helping change people’s lives. I am got on the truck for a five-hour I saw was the toilet we had to use. definitely going back to Namibia journey north. As we got off the Actually, it shouldn’t even be called and I really want to experience truck at Okakarara, Waterberg a toilet – a rusty, stinky, maggot the rest of Africa. It is an amazing Junior Secondary School, we ridden, fly infested hole would be place, and as soon as we arrived didn’t really know how to react better. You have no idea! back in London, everything seemed to all the attention; sometimes it While on top of the plateau, we so boring and dull! was easy to go along with it, laugh climbed massive vertical rocks, Good luck to the next team. and joke; other times it was quite found a twelve-foot snake skin, claustrophobic and too much. After and some spectacular views that Jake Usman

4 the Friend, 26 February 2010 Ackworth drama Hairspray Some reactions from the cast ‘Last term we performed the production of Hairspray. Prudy musical comedy Hairspray. The was an interesting part to play as story explores prejudice against she is the strict, neurotic mother to size and race in 1960s America. I Penny Pringleton. Her personality played the role of Penny Pingleton, is the opposite of mine so playing the main character’s best friend. her was quite a challenge. My Penny, a quirky, geeky, ‘in-her- favourite scene was the one where own-little-world’ girl, brings with Prudy ties her daughter to the bed her the majority of the comedy in in an attempt to punish her. This this play. Her oddball behaviour scene was actually quite comical as and her reactions to events in the Prudy’s crazy character is revealed. Show”. Acting this part was huge story were a great success with Hairspray is a fun and exciting play fun, although I had to adopt a the audience. I really enjoyed that is mostly comic – but it has strange accent, wear quirky looking this production as it combined a serious subtextual message that glasses and don tasteless clothes. all of my passions: music, drama everyone is equal.’ Spritzer has fallen in love with the and dance. It was great to work Zoe Ibbetson (4th Year) formidable Mrs Von Tussle, whose with people to whom I wouldn’t name fits her character, and who is ordinarily speak in school and I ‘This year I auditioned for a part in manipulative and greedy. Being in feel playing this role has been one the school production of Hairspray love was hard to act on stage but of my biggest achievements.’ and was delightfully surprised to playing Spritzer taught me a great Hester Plant (4th Year) be offered the part of Harriman J. deal about drama and about myself Spritzer. This eccentric individual – not least that I could fake an ‘I played the part of Prudy is the producer of the show within American accent!’ Pringleton in the Ackworth School the show: “The Corny Collins Adam Hardy (4th Year) Ackworth School welcomes Terry Waite profile speaker, who had spent five subjected to a mock execution, years in captivity (four and a half we all realised that this man’s in solitary confinement) would testimony was moving us deeply, have something special to offer to a point where we could fully and we were not disappointed. understand his cry ‘You can break Terry began by talking about his my body, you can break my mind, early career in Africa working as but you will never have my soul’. a negotiator on behalf of those Terry started and finished imprisoned by the regime of Idi with the same message; that it Amin and then moved on to his is understandable to be angry, experiences in the Middle East but one should always try to which first thrust him into the leave bitterness behind. Coming limelight when he successfully from anyone else this might have Nearly 170 students and visitors negotiated the release of hostages seemed trite, but for a man of such packed Ackworth’s Meeting House in Iran. Of course we all knew physical, spiritual and intellectual and waited in anticipation of the where we were being led, and, as he stature, still limping as a result of arrival of our famous guest. Local started to recount his experiences having the soles of his feet beaten Quakers and members of other in Beirut and how he had been twenty years ago, it was a powerful denominations joined the Sixth taken hostage, the atmosphere message indeed and one which will, Form to hear Terry Waite talk in the Meeting house became I’m sure, affect many of us for the about his ‘Spiritual Journey’. We increasingly focused. As he told rest of our lives. were anticipating that this high how he had been tortured and Andrew Ward

the Friend, 26 February 2010 5 Ackworth debate

Should the practice of euthanasia be legalised? The issue of euthanasia has been of recovery lingers? of human life. A religious view is receiving considerable press coverage ‘The main argument against that life is a gift from God, and recently, with several separate euthanasia continues to come, therefore only God has the right to incidents of so-called ‘assisted predictably enough, from the area take it away. suicide’ taking place in different of religion. But is it right to let ‘Although not religious myself, parts of the United Kingdom. The arguably outdated views influence a I too believe that all human life Ackworth School Debating Society debate which has come to transcend should be valued, and euthanasia chose this contentious issue as the religion in an increasingly agnostic, compromises this belief. It topic of a recent heated debate. What even atheist world? On top of this, suggests that the lives of the follows are the arguments of the two most mainstream religions would sick and disabled are not worth main speakers. acknowledge that we have free will. living, which is certainly not the Surely this should extend to the case. Moreover, euthanasia has a ‘The word “euthanasia” is derived choice of whether or not to end our detrimental effect on society, with from the Greek ‘eu’ meaning “easy” own lives; and where and when to human life losing its value. or “good”, and “thantos” meaning do this? ‘Legalising euthanasia could death’, writes Johnathan Zemlick . ‘In ‘Those who assist loved ones to lead to vulnerable people feeling the modern day, when people’s lives enter the ‘painless sleep’ continue pressured into ending their lives. in the First World are getting longer to receive severe punishments by There would be no way to regulate and longer without the quality of law. This is makes it difficult for the process, leading to serious that life necessarily improving, the increasing numbers of ageing repercussions. In practical terms, should individuals be given the people in our society who desire to euthanasia may also affect the legal right to end their own lives say a dignified, painless goodbye to quality of care for terminally ill when they choose? the world, their relatives and their patients, providing a quick and ‘For those with no quality of life, friends. Death is as personal to cost effective way of treating them. the terminally ill and extremely people as life: is it fair that the right It may discourage research into frail, life becomes an unwelcome to die continues to be denied by these illnesses, and could trap us in burden, degrading and depressing. grey and heartless legislation?’ a cycle where euthanasia becomes Despite their pain and anxiety, it Jessica Ng takes the opposite the norm and the only option.’ remains illegal for them to bring view : ‘The starting point has to be As a matter of interest, the about their own deaths. with the law. In the UK, euthanasia majority of students attending the ‘For those nearing the end of is currently illegal, echoing debate voted for the legalisation of their life’s journey, is it so wrong Christian teachings that it is euthanasia. to end the pain, when there is morally wrong. It is a decision that Jonathan Zemlik and Jessica medical evidence that no prospect raises questions about the sanctity Ng (both Lower Sixth) PeaceJam news In March 2010, the Ackworth School PeaceJam group travelled to Denver to take part in the tenth will travel to Bradford University for the annual anniversary conference where he spoke in 2006. He PeaceJam conference hosted by the Peace Studies inspired us with his reasonable and balanced approach Department. It gives young people from all over the to politics and we were keen to hear him again. UK a chance to meet and learn from a Nobel Peace At the conference, which will take place over a Prize Laureate. weekend, the group will have to explain to him our This year’s Laureate is José Ramos Horta, president own ideas for a peace-making project either in our of East Timor, formed in 2002 when it finally broke local community or part of a wider campaign. We are away from Indonesian rule. The country has had a long hoping to start a regular PeaceJam magazine in school history of oppression, but Ramos Horta is committed which will inform others of social justice issues, as well to developing it peacefully and steadily over the coming as continuing with a Fair Trade stall, which runs twice years. In 2008, José Ramos Horta was injured in an every term. We will also have the opportunity to meet assassination attempt but he recovered well returning up with other PeaceJammers and attend a workshop to his presidential duties two months later. which will educate us on an issue that we might not Ackworth has already had the opportunity to know much about. see José Ramos Horta, as a group from the school Madeleine Ward

6 the Friend, 26 February 2010 Bootham opinion Competition: friend or foe? Charlotte Yeldon, a College II (yr13) student at Bootham School, examines the place of competition in the Quaker context taking as her theme the life of Joseph Rowntree – Bootham Old Joseph Rowntree by the Bootham School cricket pavilion in 1919, his last year as a member of the school’s committee of Scholar and social reformer management.

We are always told to more work This does not mean, however, benefactor and far-sighted social quickly, reflect less and produce that Quakers lack competition or reformer, driven by his personal more, but at what expense? Our fail to succeed, not at all! They convictions and Quaker beliefs. society has become controlled by just don’t believe in trampling He introduced measures to protect competition and the ruthless need on others or failing to recognise the welfare of his workers. He set for success. But honest hard work people as individuals along the way. up a pension scheme, years before is no longer sufficient, celebrity I recently entered the Historical the government and introduced culture monopolises our society Association Debate where I was free health care. He left a legacy by and TV screens, when news of required to champion a local hero. creating four significant charitable Jordan’s latest marriage is more I chose Joseph Rowntree. He lacked trusts to which he gave half of his important than the economy’s neither ambition nor success, wealth. He showed it was possible positive economic growth, you but he was a Quaker, educated to be personally successful, without have to wonder what is valuable. at my school, Bootham. On his exploitation and general lack of People are valued less, but retirement in 1923 Rowntree’s care for workers. This is a lesson exploited more. Competition has Cocoa Works had a turnover of £3 that still needs to be learned embedded itself into the fabric of million and a workforce of over today. Those businesses that abuse everyday life. Pride and self-respect 7000. Rowntree’s chocolate was underage workers, immigrants have been lost as we have become one of the most recognised brands or poor communities could learn shameless in the pursuit of fame in the country. Yet he knew that from him. He was revolutionary and media attention. this gave him responsibility. He and his faith created some of the You may think that this gives remained close to the factory and most prominent suggestions and little hope for our society; but I the staff, visiting daily to talk to consequential proposals our society have found a hermitage, where workers and setting up a work’s has seen. people flourish without becoming newsletter, when the workforce We all, instinctively, need cruel and merciless. Quaker values became too large to know them competition, yet we have to be teach respect, humility modesty all by name. He created a staff responsible enough not to let it and equality. Even when the suggestion system and paid workers destroy lives or tear society apart. Victorians were oppressing factory for good ideas that would improve Quakerism has shown me that this workers, Quakers were creating efficiency, quality or morale. is possible. I hope Kraft can learn equivalent opportunities and When Joseph died he was something positive from Cadbury’s developing communities. universally mourned as a great heritage.

the Friend, 26 February 2010 7 Bootham news Bootham’s doing 10:10!

Jonathon Taylor has ditched the organised ‘Globe Day’, which is set If you look at the Quaker value of usual way of attracting new pupils to go ahead in the summer term, a simplicity more closely you can see and has begun to play the ‘green’ day off lessons on Maths, English, how it relates to sustainable living. card. The Bootham headmaster and Science and instead focus Both mean taking only what you recently took the decision to get on climate change. The pupils need and no more. Sustainability is the school involved with the 10:10 will have a packed day of ‘new’ done as a community and simply initiative. This project has been lessons on sustainability, climate refers to one individual’s actions. set up to encourage people to change and carbon footprints. The I believe that as a community of cut carbon emissions by ten per group are working towards not friends we could set an example cent by the end of 2010. This is only making changes within the of how to live sustainably together a tough but achievable task for school but to encourage a change through practising simplicity. one determined school. There is a in attitude to filter through to In the past, small, quiet, Quaker long list of changes the school is homes, and beyond to the wider schools have not overly publicised making, beginning with improving community. their successes, but if Bootham the heating and finishing the Sustainability is about meeting achieves this one, I really hope we summer term in Globe Day. the needs of today without shout about it from the rooftops! The school’s eco-group ‘BEAST’ compromising future generations, Bootham has set out on a road to a comprises of a small number of therefore closely related to this greener future! pupils whose ages range from is cutting carbon emissions so to Amelia Hutchinson eleven to eighteen. They have slow the effects of climate change. College II (yr13)

A film feast On 2 February, this year’s sixteenth nomination. The moving performance in Precious. Academy award nominations were favourites to steal the evening are This year, as ever, the Oscars will announced. The academy awards Avatar and The Hurt Locker, with bringing new talent to attention, ceremony, also known as the nine nominations each. While as well as celebrating human Oscars, is our most established and it is also an important evening creativity in its most popular respected film awards ceremony, for Pixar’s Up, the first Pixar format. and this year is its eighty-second animation to be nominated for year. It is a record-breaking year, best film, and the twelve first time with ten nominations in the best nominees in the acting categories, Elise Ashby, film category, and Meryl Streep’s including Gabourey Sidibe’s College II (yr13)

Care of elderly is becoming battleground Gordon Brown’s recent focus on any better, shouting ‘same old of figures for any such plan elderly care has drawn comments Tories’ and refusing to respond to themselves. Both parties seem all that it could be a battleground inquiries as to where the money too ready to talk about benefits, in this general election, while will come from – a £20,000 estate but not costs. the Tories are plagiarising the levy? American anti-inheritance tax Yet the Tories, while branding lobby’s ‘death tax’ strategy. The themselves the ‘party for change’, Ewan Blackledge prime minister has not done have provided little in the way College II (yr13)

8 the Friend, 26 February 2010 Bootham comment Art and materialism

At the beginning of a new decade our ability to think, and to create However, artists are striving with the threat of global warming beautiful things, both of which to create bigger and better, each looming, there is increasing translate into literature and art, wanting to outdo the last, and there pressure to cut our carbon and as a result materialism. We must come a point when we hit footprints, and materialism is are creating something beautiful, the limit. 2010 is being called the often seen as the evil we need to but in doing so we must destroy best year for film of all time, and overcome. However, it is also often something else, and we have to James Cameron’s Avatar is leading forgotten that materialism includes evaluate whether we are making a the pack. Avatar is an incredibly art, literature and film, which the worthwhile exchange. Is the beauty beautiful and moving film. But vast majority of people wouldn’t of a painting greater than the while it evokes wonder at how far think twice before praising, and beauty we have destroyed in order cinema and technology have come, the question arises as to whether to create it? Are Wordsworth’s and as a result how far humanity these things are included in the doting descriptions of nature has come, at the same time it materialism we are striving to cut greater than the trees cut down symbolises the absolute epitome of out. The reason we are trying to to present them? Arguably yes, materialism. save our planet and mankind has because what has been created to be remembered, and that reason is new and worthwhile, adding is that humanity is special, and something in proportion to how Elise Ashby part of what makes us special is much it takes away. College II (yr13)

A democracy not based on honesty and respect is no democracy at all

What are we to make of the This is what I, and many far more to particular figures, but the same different parties’ views on the big experienced commentators, have statements could be applied to our question of care for the elderly, and been asking in recent months. The entire political apparatus today, other important social concerning conclusions have varied. However without much of a stretch. fairness and under privilege? We there has been one fact on which So, is this inevitable for are entering again that phase of there has been consensus. The democracy? Kant perhaps saw our democratic life when the political elite of this country has the answer to this, long ago, in entire country will be awash with decided, as Fraser Nelson of the a different political atmosphere: avoidances and half-truths. The Spectator states, that ‘parable ‘one must be free to learn how to Conservatives have become the beats policy’ – ‘as a tabloid editor make use of one’s powers freely ‘party of the rich’ and Labour has understands’. and usefully.’ The electorate must become the ‘people who broke While Fraser and many others be free to decide who should run Britain’. Somewhere along the way, may see this as a legitimate way to this country, based on policy, not the facts and evidence so revered put policy across, I find it, frankly, parable. Politicians need to learn by the Enlightenment thinkers who to be part of the problem. As Mick the value of honesty in order for us spawned it, were lost from our Hume wrote after the Labour to learn how to respond to it, not democratic process, replaced by party conference, our politics is the other way around. half-truth and pure fairy-tale. ever more about ‘positioning and Is this the direction in which image than principles and ideas’. Ewan Blackledge democracy naturally must move? Well, both those writers referred College II (yr13)

the Friend, 26 February 2010 9 Friends’ School interview Martin Hugall – dedicated service Roly Fischer-Vousden and Jess Dickinson interviewed a long-serving staff member on his retirement Martin Hugall (left) answers questions.

Why did you apply to teach at What memories will you take away However, to those I would add the Friends’ School Saffron Walden? with you when you leave? enjoyment I have had in being able My university tutor was a Quaker The Biology department will to take lots of photos of school and I was impressed by him and always have a place in my heart, activities. I hope that pupils will when this job came up I just and in my early days I spent a lot appreciate this when they look knew that it was right for me as I of time helping to develop it. back in the archives on the website particularly wanted to work in a The many colleagues that I in years to come. school with a Christian foundation. have had the privilege to work Teaching the children of parents Friends’ School has a soul and that with including Denby Allen who who I have taught in the past. I is very important to me. taught me so much about teaching have also taught three members Biology in my early years. The late of staff and several governors. Have you taught any notable Richard Wright, who was senior Developing School Council pupils? master when I arrived, and who – I have been involved with this A pupil that I am very proud to I would love to have emulated to ever since I started at Friends’ have taught is Martha Holmes some small degree – a Quaker saint and we have had some major who went on to produce a number if ever there was one. achievements, such as the abolition of BBC wildlife programmes, The numerous Biology field of lessons on Saturdays. I have also including Sea Trek and Life in the trips, and trips to France and very much appreciated the thrill Freezer. Holland at the end of the summer of being a member of the Senior There are many other pupils that term. And a special mention of Management Team and being able I have taught who have gone on to the six sixth form working parties to attend Governors’ meetings for do great things. I have always had I took to La Coûme, a small many years where the excitement an interest in the medical aspects commune-based school of Quaker of being at the cutting edge never of Biology and several pupils I have origin in the French Pyrenees. seemed to wane. taught have become doctors. I have I have fond memories of had recent contact with one who Assemblies and in particular What will you miss the most? is an eminent eye consultant and Meeting for Worship when the Working with young people another who is a brain surgeon. school can really feel like the family – especially now my own sons have Many others email me to let me community it is. grown up. The companionship of know they now have PhDs. Some the colleagues that I have worked make a lot of money but many Which aspects of your job over the with at all levels throughout this have very worthwhile and caring last thirty-seven years have you school. Popping in to school – it careers and I can’t help feeling that enjoyed the most? has become like a second home. they have been influenced by their Well – all the things I mentioned This article appeared in the avenue Friends’ School experience. earlier about happy memories. newsletter, Summer 2009.

10 the Friend, 26 February 2010 Friends’ School news Hope for Peace During Quaker Schools Week Friends’ School celebrated with a series of events. We hosted a one-day seminar with the Peace Education Network and held a special assembly and workshop with Candia Crossfield, a young Quaker and Peace worker. The Sixth Form attended Meetings for Clearness run by tutors from Woodbrooke, Britain’s Quaker Study Centre, and all students were treated to hot chocolate and Fairtrade cakes at recess. On Thursday, Meeting for Worship took place in all seven Quaker schools in England at the same time and to round off the week fifteen doves were released on Friday, one for every form group at Friends’. Anna Chaudhri, deputy head, said: ‘The entire week was a real celebration of our Quaker values: truth, equality, simplicity and peace.’

Popping up and Popping in!

World-renowned pop-up book designer, paper engineer Nicholas Denchfield visited Friends’ to show his work and witty ideas to the students of years 6 and 7 in a workshop. The students were shown examples of paper engineering and made a pop-up book of their own. Alex Van Enis of year 7 said: ‘This was great fun and a once in a lifetime opportunity.’

Apple juice raises money for British Aid for Deprived Children Friends’ Junior School pupils, from Nursery to Year Six, spent an afternoon in the autumn term picking apples from the school orchard. These apples were sent to be pressed and an impressive 586 bottles of apple juice were returned to school. The apple juice has been sold with the proceeds going to British Aid for Deprived Children. George Mills attended the Junior School assembly this week and collected a cheque for £750 which he explained would go a long way towards helping many people struggling to survive in the Ukraine. Head of Friends’ Junior School, Andrew Holmes said: ‘It was another successful harvest from the orchard this year and it was a great opportunity for our pupils to see the production process from beginning to end and then to see the money raised make such a difference.’

the Friend, 26 February 2010 11 Friends’ School reflections Model United Nations Conference On Sunday 7 and Monday 8 February 2010, two teams international affairs. We all thoroughly enjoyed the from Friends’ School participated in a Model United Conference and look forward to doing it again next Nations Conference at Felsted School. The countries year! we were representing were Costa Rica and Democratic Our UN teams were drawn from Year 11 and 6i as Republic of Congo. These countries were allocated follows: to us and we had to research them in advance of the Costa Rica Conference. In keeping with our Quaker values of Emma Tamsin Stanbury (Security Council) tolerance and respect for the opinions of others, the Georgia-Beau Rolls (Economic and Social Welfare Model United Nations required us to look at the world Committee) through the eyes of others. Tosin Marianne Ovadje (Human Rights) During this enjoyable and interesting event we Eleri Wood (Environment) debated a number of current issues in the modern world, including resolution of the conflict between Democratic Republic of Congo Israel and Palestine, the decreasing numbers of blue Leanne Kennerson (Economic and Social Welfare whales and the effect of recession on impoverished Committee) countries. It was an educational experience which Natasha Jones (Human Rights) allowed us to see how the UN deals with important Pollyanna Johnson (Environment) Reflections on Haiti Week

As part of the Haiti week at so that it was very difficult to get sponsored swims to wishing wells, Friends’ School Saffron Walden, around the country and bring help they did everything they could to Year 7 volunteers talked about to the people who needed it most. help the people of Haiti. In one the impact of the catastrophic The school was reminded of how week, the school raised £1500 to earthquake that hit the country. As much help was needed in Haiti. help the people of Haiti. a Quaker school, we are committed The immediate help required in Visit www.friendsschool.org to to helping people in all walks of life Haiti was food, drink and medical learn more about Haiti Week. and all over the world. By raising assistance. Afterwards they would Matthew Richardson, Yr 7 awareness in our week of activities, need to rebuild the capital. That we wished to show our compassion would not be easy and concern for the people of since Haiti was a poor Haiti. country. It began with the Year 7 However, the aid volunteers talking about where agencies were already Haiti is, what its capital was called in Haiti before the and what life was like before the disaster, but people disaster. The school learned that working with the Haiti was a poor country even charities lost their before the earthquake and was not lives and bases in the prepared for a disaster of this kind. disaster. In spite of this The disaster itself was sad to see aid workers did their and hear about. The earthquake best to help in the measured magnitude 7 on the situation. Some of the Richter Scale. It was a major charities involved were catastrophe and the capital Port the British Red Cross, au Prince was flattened. People Oxfam and Merlin. were homeless and children had The volunteers then been separated from their families. said how the school Roads and airports were destroyed could help. From

12 the Friend, 26 February 2010 Leighton Park arts

The Crucible by Arthur Miller In February Leighton Park staged its senior production, The Crucible. The language is challenging; the narrative gripping; the location atmospheric; the characters beautifully drawn. At Leighton Park, we wanted to concentrate on the emotional content of the play. Student actors often find it difficult to come to terms with the complexity of the feelings that the characters display and the emotional ‘journey’ of even the supporting roles. As we progressed, the students became more and more obsessed with their characters and were very conscious of the fact that they were playing real people. The performances proved to be very demanding but exceedingly satisfying. The reaction of audiences was gratifying, many saying that the play still had the power to move you at a profound level. The Crucible requires a cast who are fully committed and prepared to expose their feelings to an audience. We were fortunate to have experienced this with our young people. We feel that the Quaker ethos of Leighton Park contributed to the success of our performance and one of the few smiles in the play was generated by the line: ‘What are we, Quakers! We are not yet Quakers here, John Proctor’. Geraint Thomas head of drama

House Music Competition Later this term (Spring 2010) we are holding our annual Above and top left: Two photographs from the performance of The House Music Competition. This is one of the highlights Crucible. of the school year where all the senior houses put together several musical numbers in a fierce (but very friendly!) competition. All pupils that wish to be involved are, whether it is on stage or behind the scenes. The competition is judged by a panel of professional musicians. Last year the award went to Grove House. We look forward to this year’s spectacular. House Cross-Country Championships World Book Week Each year the sporting calendar includes the House Cross-Country Championships. In March, Leighton Park School are taking part in World With all the senior houses taking part this Book Week. We run a host of events aimed at sparking is a well attended event both on the course an interest in literature across the whole school. This and with other pupils supporting their house year some of the highlights are our bookshop, which also members. Last year the overall championship raises money for charity, four visiting authors, a fancy was won by Field House. Sporting activity dress competition, a book quiz and a sponsored read for is strong at Leighton Park were pupils are Readathon (Roald Dahl foundation and CLIC Sargeant) encouraged to take part and do their best and the school library at the Bujagali Trust in Uganda. whatever their level of ability.

the Friend, 26 February 2010 13 Leighton Park reflections An interview with John Dunston, head

When waiting to interview John When John was asked how Dunston, I am not afraid to say you can measure the success of a I was nervous, but the second I school, he responded that although walked into his room, John straight exam results were important, there away made me comfortable was much more to success than and gave me a feeling of being that narrow measure. ‘There is a welcome. I have known John strong sense of community in the Dunston for six and a half years as school, and of genuine affection Head at Leighton Park School. So from the pupils towards each to be able to interview him, as he is other, and towards and among soon leaving, was a great honour. the teachers. The school makes John Dunston is the first a difference to our world.’ One Jewish head in a Quaker school; of the many examples that John he believes that his values have gave was the JB Hodgkin speech been similar in many ways to competition, where participating As John is retiring at the end Quakerism, but also complemented pupils are also judged on how of December I wish him and his by it, to give him a greatly enriched well they handle lively heckling family well, on behalf of the whole spiritual sense. He has now been a from their fellow-students who school community and all whose Head at Quaker schools for twenty are trying to push the speakers lives he has influenced, as he years. He was at Sibford for six and to higher and higher levels of continues to make a contribution a half years, and then at Leighton achievement. It’s hard to believe to education in what will surely Park since 1996. When he was – but true! – that they are doing be another very active phase of his asked how he felt about leaving this in a spirit of friendship and own life. after this significant period of support. Morwenna Hull (U6) time he said: ‘I am going to miss Leighton Park, but I do think that it’s the right time for the school to begin its next chapter, and for Living in a Quaker School as a Quaker me as well to have the chance for a change in direction.’ As a Quaker it is motivating is important because Leighton Park is considered to be in a Quaker school like it will help you in a successful school. When he Leighton Park, as you get to your future life, since was asked what some of the key learn more about the beliefs the belief in equality ingredients are, he pondered: ‘The and values of Quakerism. Even and justice can help success of a school, I would think, if you are not a Quaker you you to become more reasonable is above all reflected in its pupils, still get to fully experience the and help you to feel compassion as well as in the true dedication of Quaker values and way of life; for others who have less than the staff, but also in the extent to we have more time to gather you. which its values are realised.’ our thoughts and think about Overall I really enjoy being in John thought that as long as hard decisions we have to make. a Quaker school and I benefit pupils and staff were always trying Every Thursday we have a silent from being a Quaker myself. I to improve, and be willing to ask Meeting where we are left to our would recommend this school questions such as ‘Why?’ and ‘Why own thoughts. to anyone! not?’, that would give a particular I think learning about and Acadia Stanton strength to the community. experiencing the Quaker values (yr 10)

14 the Friend, 26 February 2010 Leighton Park comment & news Quaker values and today’s society In the last few weeks, news of John anti-homosexuality bill was being Finally, we turned our eyes away Terry’s infidelity has spread across reviewed. Yet none of these things from those with money and living our front and back pages. It is were as widely publicised. Surely a comfortable life, to those with no ironic, since in 2009 he had been our priorities have gone askew money and no longer any homes named ‘Dad of the Year’ after a somewhere? Regular people came together to Daddies Sauce survey. The problems may lie in that give aid to those who needed it, It seems to be impossible to people have become desensitised to pay attention and send love to escape the ‘cult of celebrity’, with to the bombings, executions and those in most need. gossip magazines outnumbering murders. Every day, people are And so did the celebrities, specialist magazines. dying in war, but unless it’s an boosting awareness for the disaster. On the very same day as Fabio unusual or brutal case, no-one It would be cynical to say that Capello removed Terry’s captaincy seems to want to know, especially if they did it for their own good a language became extinct (in the Brad and Angelina might be on the publicity, but, for many of them, I Andaman Islands near India), verge of splitting up. truly believe that they did it for the two bombs exploded in Karachi, But there is hope. On 12 January, benefit of those in need. So, thank Pakistan, killing twenty-two, the world came together after an you celebrities, for showing us that and Uganda’s Deputy Foreign earthquake struck the island of you do have souls like the rest of us. Minister admitted the proposed Haiti, killing more then 150,000. Matt Winkless, U6 The Leighton Park ReachOut Project ReachOut is an awareness, prevent exploitation, and our action and fundraising group ‘Save the Planet’ and ‘Eco-Fryer’ that aims to build upon the clubs aid learning on how to Quaker principles of social preserve the planet. witness; peace, equality, justice, As a ReachOut prefect I am simplicity and truth. more aware of the need to Good Causes helps to raise help others through the use of consciousness of less fortunate fundraising and this leads me people through Collects and to a better understanding of the whole-school fundraising world. events. Our Amnesty International group helps to Rosie Hopgood, U6, protect the rights of people and ReachOut prefect

ReachOut 2010 some upcoming events

22 February to 5 March – Fairtrade and attitudes to Gypsies in the UK Fortnight 12 March: Good Causes fundraising 26 February: Cake Sale – Fundraising for event – face painting and splat the Malawi charities teacher 25 February to May/June – Leighton 18 March: Evening of jazz in honour of Park Election club – learning about Pat Kelly – ‘Save the Rainforest’ theme. democracy 22 March: Facing History – Guest 1 March: Fairtrade Collect – Vinay speaker: James Welch from ‘Liberty’ Devaiah, deputy manager, Thiashola (Pressure Group) – talk on Civil Tea Estate Liberties amd Human Rights 1 March: Community Learning Project/ 10 June: Community Learning Project Facing History: An evening talk with – An evening with Gordon Rushmer – Ruth Barnett on the Kindertransport war artist (in aid of ‘Help for Heroes’)

the Friend, 26 February 2010 15 The Mount news PeaceJam Youth Conference March 2010 The PeaceJam Youth Conference for independence and human in Bradford will be focusing upon rights. In 1996 he won the Nobel extreme poverty throughout the Peace Prize for his sustained world in a series of talks, debates efforts to end the oppression and projects. It is being eagerly of East Timorese people. At the awaited by the Mount School conference, participants will also PeaceJam group! PeaceJam aims discuss reconciliation and the to bring together Nobel Peace challenge of eradicating extreme Laureates and young people, poverty. Peaceful values will be providing events to inspire the put into practice by carrying out latter to carry out acts of peace service projects, from environment within their society. PeaceJam is conservation work to peace mural throughout the school painted an important aspect of Mount life painting and refugee support. their umbrellas to depict what and inspires us to promote peace, In 2009, our group were peace means to them. We hope both within school and our wider particularly inspired by the 2003 we were successful in promoting community. Nobel Peace Laureate, Shirin Ebadi, peaceful ideals. We have also This year, 1996 Nobel Peace who described her struggle for visited Menwith Hill, talked to Laureate José Ramos Horta will women’s rights in Iran. As a result, homeless people at a local charity, be speaking at the conference. José The Mount has an active PeaceJam Caresent, and have been carol Ramos Horta was a key member group, which meets with the group singing for ‘Children of Peace’ – a of the Revolutionary Front for at Bootham. This year’s activities charity which supports children in an Independent East Timor and, included fundraising and raising Israel and Palestine. Following the throughout the occupation of peace awareness. Our focus on conference, we will be planning the country by Indonesia, Horta peace awareness involved a silent, what we can do to help and support led the resistance, campaigning colourful ‘umbrella’ protest. Pupils those facing extreme poverty.

York Independent Tregelles’ Woodland Area State School ‘The best classroom… is roofed only by the sky.’ Partnership (ISSP) Margaret McMillan

The Mount School is a very active Tregelles, The Mount Junior School, already recognised member of the York ISSP. It is made up the importance of environmental, outdoor education but of York’s maintained and independent the recent addition of a Woodland Area has opened up secondary education providers and new and exciting avenues! exists to provide exciting enrichment The area provides a challenging environment in which opportunities for able students and to the children can gain new skills and have fun. The promote social cohesion. Pupils and emphasis is on boosting self-esteem and team building staff are getting ready to take part in and the project has been embraced by the entire school this year’s masterclass programme, with community. The Eco-Committee have built and sold opportunities ranging from extracting bird boxes to raise money to buy bulbs which have been DNA, to running a restaurant for a planted by members of our Gardening Club. day and exploring ‘Who Am I?’ Last The Nursery children visit the Woodland for a weekly summer, staff from The Mount were Forest School session, whilst the older children build successful in winning a visit to Berlin shelters and camp out overnight. Learning about nature for students from across York to goes hand in hand with green woodcraft skills. To the study the impact of 1989 on modern question ‘What did you enjoy best?’, the unanimous reply Germany. is always ‘camp fires and climbing trees!’

16 the Friend, 26 February 2010 The Mount comment Why and how should we remember? have had plenty of opportunities perhaps this could have more to reflect upon the importance of meaning if their sacrifices and the remembrance. It is sometimes said loss of their families and friends that we never learn from our past, could prevent further conflict, and that almost begs the question: hatred and death. ‘why bother to try?’ This I do not Of course, if remembrance is accept. It is true that we don’t necessary, then the question is always learn from mistakes in the asked: how do we commemorate past, but if we don’t try, we also war? Again, it can be easy to feel resign ourselves to not having the overly connected to our past and to chance to make different choices refuse to see beyond the suffering and to change things for the future. of those connected to us. It can An Away To Remember group at Etaples Remembrance is something also be difficult not to glorify Cemetery, France. Photo courtesy the Imperial deeply personal. The last veterans past national actions. However, War Museum. of the first world war died last awareness of these pitfalls can In 2008, I took part in the Imperial year, but there are still people prevent further conflict. Harry War Museum’s visit ‘Away to who remember relatives who lived Patch, the last surviving ‘Tommy’, Remember’ and was in Belgium through the war. Sometimes it is all believed that ‘war isn’t worth one on the ninetieth anniversary too easy to see the lists and lists of life’. If he and other veterans were of the Armistice. In 2009 I was names and for the loss to become brave enough to remember with invited to the memorial service in incomprehensible, and individual German veterans, then surely we Westminster Abbey to mark the stories can give us a way into too can strive to remember beyond passing of the last of the generation greater understanding. Often the nationality, and strive to live in who fought in 1914 to 1918. phrase ‘they died so that we might peace. During my time at the Mount, I live’ is inscribed on memorials; Anna Webster The Prince’s Trust

The Prince’s Trust has a project School Company and was one individual skills and making a challenging Sixth Form students of thirteen College girls given difference for a great charity. I to raise £500 for the charity by thirteen weeks to generate £500 can safely say this was the best setting up and running their own profit from nothing. With regular experience I could have wished for. small business. The ‘Challenge 500’ board meetings, brainstorming Not only did I learn so much about scheme involves groups from local with business mentors and much leadership, management, teamwork schools working with successful debate, we decided to design and and communication skills, but I business professionals to reach the produce ‘I heart MSY’ (Mount made some incredible friendships £500 target in whatever way they School York) hoodies, mugs and at the same time. It has inspired me wish. Every part of the business key-rings. The merchandise proved to pursue a career in business and has to be run and organised by the a big hit; we surpassed the target given me the confidence to take students themselves; from ideas, and raised £1,256.20. The team had up other opportunities, such as a to manufacturing, distributing an amazing vibe; they were lively, weekend at Woodbrooke where we and selling the product as well enthusiastic and threw everything learned about the Quaker business as keeping up-to-date financial into this project. It was not always method. records. In 2008, I was the easy, but it was great feeling the managing director of our Mount development of the group, gaining Andrea Garner

the Friend, 26 February 2010 17 The Mount society Participation in city affairs

York shopping. Photo: EamonCurry123/flickr CC:BY.

The York Youth Council (YYC) is a present in the meetings. There is beneficial to young people as it newly founded council committee a Communications Committee, will allow them to freely relax and for people aged eleven to eighteen which works on the monthly socialise with their friends and years. The youth council is made newsletter informing young they will also be able to volunteer up of nominated young people people about the work the YYC is to help run the café after school representing the schools and youth doing. There are also two groups or after attending youth groups. groups of York. The big aim of working together to organize our As Mount School representatives, the youth council is to give the campaigns. This year we have it is our job to bring the Mount young people of York a real voice decided that we are going to work School’s perspective to the table in the issues which affect them. It towards a York Youth Festival in and help make changes that affect allows young people to voice their the summer of 2010 where the us. opinions on what goes on in York young people of York will have and allows them to contribute the opportunity to show case and What are we hoping to achieve? towards the issues that affect them. celebrate their talents. The aims of To make life more enjoyable for It also provides the opportunity the Youth Festival are: young people in York and to listen for young people to publicise • To promote the achievements of to them and try and improve themselves in a positive light. YYC young people in York. what matters to them. There is aims to become the voice of young • To create positive publicity for the option of young people to people in our area, conveying their young people of York and York come along to a few of the York wishes to local decision-makers. Youth Council. Youth Council Meetings so they The councillors will be trained • To promote groups and activities can contribute their ideas towards to get the skills they require to that are available for young making our campaigns as much of represent their peers, and hopefully people in York. a success as possible. We hope that go on to make some improvements • To create a fun day out that is the Youth Council will continue that will make a difference. suitable for all ages. to be a success for many years to We are also looking at setting up come, and deal with some of the What is our part? a Youth Café as a place for young issues young people face in their Our part is to contribute towards people to go. This has been done daily lives in York. the York Youth Council and help before, and was very successful give voice to young people who but the café closed due to the lease Lucy Hampshire don’t have the opportunity to be running out. This café will be very and Ruth Gardiner

18 the Friend, 26 February 2010 Sibford news Sibford celebrates as past meets future

Pupils look to the future of their eighty-year-old school

June marks the eightieth changing complex. anniversary of the opening of the Officially opened by main school building. September England, Yorkshire sees the twenty-first anniversary of and Essex cricketer, the opening of the Junior School. Darren Gough Meanwhile, Sibford is also looking (below), the new to the future as it embarks on the changing complex second stage of a major expansion comprises three programme. distinct areas that ‘It’s exciting times for Sibford’, can accommodate says head Michael Goodwin. ‘It’s up to 180 pupils at great to look back and to see how any one time. the school has developed since it ‘Stage two of the was first launched back in 1842. plan was to have But, more importantly, it’s great been the creation Darren Gough with some students. that we are in a position where we of a new hall and can continue to expand.’ theatre space,’ says The current ‘master plan’ for Michael. ‘In order to do this we Those interested in finding the school has already seen the were going to temporarily relocate out more about the history of creation of a new £850,000 sports the design and technology studios, Sibford School will be delighted however, a rise in school to learn that a new book is being numbers means that this will published to celebrate the eightieth no longer be practical. anniversary of the main school ‘We are now going to building, affectionately known as embark on the creation of ‘The Hill Building’. a brand new DT building Written by former pupil Michael and will then be able to use Finch, A View from the Hill takes the the site of the old studios reader from the school’s very first to build an even bigger and registered pupil, nine-year-old Lucy better hall than was original Endall, who arrived ‘by carrier cart planned. from Banbury’ on 16 January 1842. ‘That the master plan is ‘Right from the start Sibford has changing as it progresses is held true to its Quaker faith, seeking typical of the evolution that to find that of God of everyone,’ Sibford has enjoyed. Over the says Michael. ‘As I write today, our years we have always had an latest registered pupil is number eye to the future and adapted 8576. That’s a lot of young lives that Darren Gough with Michael Goodwin, head. accordingly.’ we’ve had the privilege to share.’

the Friend, 26 February 2010 19 Sibford outdoors Pupils reap the fruits of their labour In September 2008, Sibford School shifted the focus of its junior curriculum to include outdoor learning. The move has had a significant impact… in more ways than one What we like about outdoor learning Megan Penney (11): It’s fun learning outside, you’ve got more freedom and its easier to learn. Inside the teachers just tell you about things, outside you actually get to do it. Thomas Brickwood (10): We make a greenhouse Harvesting the beetroot … Jessica Hannah Gardiner is captured on film so that the bottles didn’t Edwards and Alexander Lane. building the bottle green house. have to go to landfill. It’s When Sibford School introduced by the junior school. recycling bottles rather outdoor learning to its junior Other outdoor learning activities than wasting them and curriculum we hadn’t bargained on have included creating an iron-age it’s much better than the knock on effect it might have in round house, planting a willow using glass and steel and the school kitchens. tunnel and building an eco-friendly starting from scratch. While covering the whole greenhouse… made out of 2,000 Darcey Rivers (10): We curriculum from English and fizzy pop bottles! made a whole eye on the history through to maths and ‘The greenhouse is a classic playground using chalk science an inevitable byproduct example of outdoor learning at and leaves. We wrote down of outdoor education tends to be its best,’ says Edward Rossiter. the names of the different plenty of fresh produce. And with ‘It helped the children learn parts of the eye on little the school caterers committed to about their own effect on the blackboards and had to put sourcing local ingredients, the end environment; it involved design them by the right bits. It customer was, quite literally, sitting and maths skills in working out was much more fun than doing on our own doorstep! the construction; team work in the it on the interactive white board. Junior school teacher, Edward actual building; and even media Isaac Roberts (10): I like Rossiter, says: ‘Having the awareness… the local BBC TV going outside. You don’t opportunity to find out first hand news came out to see what we were get hot like you do in the where food comes from has been doing. classroom. We made a a terrific experience. It’s been ‘It was also an opportunity for model of the Mary Rose on great for pupils to be able to plant, some community outreach… we the ground using blankets nurture, harvest and then eat what invited children from All Saints and chalks. We collected they’ve grown.’ Primary School in Nuneaton to different coloured leaves Edible highlights have included join us. Outdoor learning is a fun and used them to make pumpkin soup, apple crumble and way to learn and when children are the wood of the ship. The Mary beetroot crisps. The parsnips and enjoying themselves they are more Rose was named after Henry Brussels sprouts for the school likely to remember what they’re VIII’s sister. It was really thin and Christmas lunch were also grown being taught.’ really tall.

20 the Friend, 26 February 2010 Sibford School comment That Friday feeling

with our hard day of study ahead, gets the chance to come in and be be wasting our weary eyes upon the drawn to our attention. morning papers. And so the usual Its light falls upon eyes that conversations arise, seemingly were half shut with sleep and oblivious to the wider world. ears muffled with a day’s worth Charles Wilkinson. The day goes on, and between of inanities, enkindling sympathy those who are working hard, and and compassion; and the weary This comment was written following those who are pretending, the travellers of the world start to a Friday Meeting for Worship during modern day can hardly find a wake. which recordings of those who had chink through which to interrupt. The clutter of their lives seems witnessed the earthquake in Haiti Lunchtime comes, and we draw to fall away. The gossamer threads were played. our thick clothes to us tighter, and of their earlier thoughts and we accept the food that is given to distractions now seem distant, With our best Friday-faces on we us with a casual air. trivial and unimportant. trudge to school. And we complain And soon the day draws to an And they leave with a new-found that it’s too early, or too dark, or end, and everyone gathers to attend purity of thought. too wet or quite possibly all three. the last obstacle that lies between Enlightened. With the habit of sleeping until them and the weekend, the Friday the last possible minute, not many Meeting. of us bother with the luxury of the And its at Friday Meeting when Charles Wilkinson morning news. Neither can we, finally, the outside world at last Year 13 Hope and imagination

According to Quaker faith & practice 23.85 ‘the two vindication of Quaker schools qualities which are most important to children of and it is certainly in part due today are hope and imagination. Hope to believe they to being at Sibford that he can change the world they live in and imagination to has dealt so maturely with the find ways to do so.’ consequences of the accident.’ The truth of this statement was brought There is, inevitably, tension dramatically home to me recently by two coinciding between Quaker Schools and events. One was the horrific case of the young boys in some members of the Society. Doncaster who brutally tortured two of their peers. As Clare herself writes: ‘it is And the other was a letter from the grandmother but a privileged few who can of a former pupil who had been involved in a tragic attend’. accident in which two people died. But that’s not our fault and Michael Goodwin. Dubbed by the media as ‘devil boys’, what those surely it’s better to offer hope children in Doncaster did was, without doubt, and imagination to those we can rather than to none inexcusable. However, there is an overriding sense that at all. the perpetrators had been let down by the system. As a Quaker head of a Quaker school I am delighted Monsters are not born… they are created. that this issue of The Friend is giving so much Which brings me to the letter. ‘My grandson coverage to Quaker education and I trust that those dropped out of state school with low self esteem, Friends who brand us ‘elitist’ will be prepared to cast lack of confidence and poor academic achievement,’ aside prejudices and take this opportunity to celebrate writes Clare. ‘Sibford turned that young man’s life our successes. around, giving him back his self-respect, developing Michael Goodwin his true potential and making him happy. It is a real head of Sibford School

the Friend, 26 February 2010 21 Sidcot challenge to faith A Quaker experience

individuals who, from an century. It would also look to early age, strive to achieve and inform the students about who the understand but at the age of Quakers really were and their role fifteen I was not one of them. in today’s society. I decided that I would have to We were joined by members of wait for Quaker Week, which the other Southern Quaker Schools Ben Cox on the Foxtrot pilgrimage. might give me some insight making us a party of twenty-five. into this new religion. The trip itself surpassed all my I am, and believe that I always will Quaker Week at Sidcot is expectations. To be with a group of be, an atheist. From early in my designed to incorporate fun like-minded motivated individuals school education I was presented activities with learning about the was a truly liberating experienced with many ideas about God, stories heritage of the early Quakers as and to be together, learning about of the Bible and was preached well as educating the students a subject that influenced all our to by the local vicar every Friday about various world issues. The lives made the occasion even more morning. We learnt about the activities that these themes are compelling. various cultures and religions and centred around include informative Quakerism is constantly I was reasonably interested in their talks by well read men, a concert evolving. It has become more of varying beliefs and practices but from Ben Okafor, a singer who a way of life than a religion as nothing really caught my attention, campaigns against the injustice many modern Quakers are atheists. until now. of child soldiers on a global scale, At Sidcot we are not constantly I came to Sidcot in 2006 on and games which were from the reminded of its heritage but it is 5 September, which was, sound of it boring. The talks were an ever present in our day to day coincidentally, my birthday. It interesting and the debates on life, in the principles the school was scary of course, having never environmental change even more upholds and the way it expects its boarded before, being thrust into so but still, even after the week students to behave. Quakers move a house with twenty-four other was up I couldn’t put a finger on with the times, from being some boys, some of whom were a good exactly what it was that Quakerism of the first individuals to oppose deal bigger than me and had been was all about. the slave trade to combating there a considerably longer. Mostly, I am now in my final year at environmental and social issues in though, I remember the questions Sidcot and therefore have been the world today. from home. These generally started exposed to Quakerism for the last Quaker week 2009 gave me with: how are things with you? four years but it was not until the opportunity to channel And ended with: so what is this the beginning of this year that some of my new energy for Quakerism all about? I discovered Quakerism. Sidcot Quakerism towards the rest of The first of these questions was offers the chance for four students the Sidcot community. I enjoyed easy, I was having a great time, but to take part in an activity that has and appreciated everything, the the second was a little trickier. ‘Well commonly come to be known informative talks, the Ben Okafor it’s a denomination of Christianity, as the Foxtrot. It is essentially a concert and undoubtedly the which was started by George Fox, Quaker pilgrimage, taking the games. The week culminated with you know the guy on the Quaker students to the spiritual home a Meeting, which lasted half an Oats packet’ was generally as far as of Quakerism in Cumbria and hour. In previous Quaker Weeks it I got before they realised I didn’t Lancashire, visiting many of the has become common for students really know. There is a certain places in which George Fox’s to share thoughts about ‘how great amount of apathy in the young original ideas developed and it is that we can stand up and say mind. Of course there are those became a reality in the seventeenth what we like’, which admittedly is

22 the Friend, 26 February 2010 Sidcot work in the world needlessly pointing out the obvious found myself on my feet, talking relationship with Quakerism. It but was better than others who say about this, my heart thumping, has influenced me to take pride ‘thanks everyone for my great time giving the first ministry of my life. in my work, to pursue activities at Sidcot’ and promptly sit down. I talked of change, the energy in which benefit others and to live I listened to the predictable voices the room and how it gave me hope, my life adventurously. Its morals of the lower years and I began to how the School would benefit and guidance profit every student think. This week had enthused from pupils who had had the that attends Sidcot or any other the masses, at the end of Quaker courage to speak out and how they of the Quaker schools, the periods week all these students had been represented the modern Quaker. of reflection in Meetings a unique moved to speak out, whether to say I am, and believe that I always experience shared together. I know something irrelevant or to voice a will be, an atheist. I am not a Quakerism is something that is real concern, never-the-less, they Quaker, and still to this day could now part of my life and I hope to had. There was energy in the room, not give you a concise definition, keep it that way. energy for change, to be involved, much to the annoyance of my all influenced by Quakerism. I parents. For me it is about my Ben Cox Learning to make a difference… in Kenya I’m Joe Patrick and I am head boy and the way that at Sidcot. Last summer I travelled he himself had to Kilifi in Kenya with my friend lived all his life. Matt, as we wanted to learn more This included about the charity organisations that funding his own sponsor young people in Africa. school fees by We planned how we were going to climbing up fifteen get there and funded the trip by to twenty coconut raising money through a sponsored trees three times cycle from John O’Groats to Lands each day to “tap” End and other events. Most of the them for alcohol. money was used to sponsor an Most coconut trees African student of our age who we being no shorter met on our trip. Kenya is a magical than a three- place that can’t be described using story building words alone. One of the most and using no noticeable thing is the friendliness safety equipment, of the people, there most of whom Emmanuel was have next to nothing, bringing the dedicated to English equivalent of £2.50 back bettering his life to their huge families every week. for himself and his However, this doesn’t seem to family. Joe Patrick with new friends in Kenya. dampen their spirits. Joe is now A local boy named Emmanuel sponsoring was asked to show us around and Emmanuel’s younger brother, has raised £600 towards this so far, take care of us in the unfamiliar seventeen-year-old Michael Mruu, and has since been nominated for environment that we found through secondary school in Kenya, the Education Project of the Year ourselves in. Emmanuel was a true paying for his boarding fees, text award through our local newspaper, gent and always put us first. He was books, uniform and for items such narrowly missing out on the top keen to show us his background as sheets and a mosquito net. He spot!

the Friend, 26 February 2010 23 Sidcot news News from the Quaker elders One thing that is prominent understanding current issues and This is a team set up by students, at Sidcot is the friendly, open other cultures that we are able to which is active in providing ways atmosphere and to a lot of the hold such successful charitable for us to make a difference, no students, Sidcot is more than just events. One of our teachers stood matter how small, to the world a school – it’s a community. As up recently in assembly and said around us. student elders, we are active in ‘Congratulations Sidcot, you I think the common feeling encouraging the Quaker spirit are fabulous!’ before revealing around the student body can around the school by setting up the amount of money that we be summed up by the words of various events, groups, workshops managed to raise for Children in our Head Boy, Joseph Patrick: and talks, all providing knowledge Need (a fantastic £1656.79!) ‘Quakerism Rocks.’ and awareness of the faith. We have also set the wheels There are countless opportunities in motion for a ‘Quaker Action Tom Lipfriend and at Sidcot to learn about the world Group’ at Sidcot, which is linked to Holly Wallis around us, and it is through our Amnesty International Group. Quaker elders at Sidcot A summer in Ecuador Charlotte Gerling made full use of her summer holidays by travelling to Ecuador and volunteering in ‘Campamento Efrata’ – a camp that gives children between the ages of twelve to eighteen the chance to attend school. During her time at the camp, Charlotte helped with the daily chores and taught basic English. ‘At the beginning, I thought it would just be a helpful way to spend my time during summer, but then I realised it was much more than that: the friendliness, openness and the wish to give, convinced me to help them further when back home: as it is a new and small camp, the aid delivered by churches and other programmes, doesn’t reach them.’ On her return, Charlotte began collecting items to send back to the camp. Fellow students gave generously, and Charlotte was able to send toys and clothes worth £500 for both the children in the camp, and for their families. Charlotte Gerling. Quaker week at Sidcot Junior School A special Quaker assembly introduced Sidcot Junior School to Quaker Week and this year’s theme, ‘learning to make a difference’. During the week, each junior class was invited to take part in a Quaker activity/workshop and a cooperative game, and parachute games and juggling were on offer at lunch times, with a little help from the senior school students! There was an art competition for Nursery to Year 2 and a Quaker Quiz for Years 3-6, with poetry books as prizes. Quaker Week came to a close with the White Feather story being role played by the whole school in an unforgettable Meeting for Worship, full of howling, energetic Indians! A white feather still remains pinned above the Sidcot Junior School children during Quaker Week. door…

24 the Friend, 26 February 2010 Youth book Spirit Rising In 2008 Quakers Uniting in Publications gathered an confuse, alarm or even offend you. We recognize that, editorial board of ten young people from different and we trust you to hold this book – all of it – as a branches of Quakerism and different countries. The testimony and gift of the Spirit. board spent a year gathering contributions from ‘In his Journal John Woolman noted that while around the Quaker world. Then they met in 2009 to struggling with language, the interpreters “… helped select and edit the pieces. one another and we laboured along together, divine Now titled Spirit Rising: Young Quakers Speak, the love attending.” That has been our experience – we forthcoming Quaker youth book includes over 210 have laboured together, and we have felt the presence pieces of writing and visual art by over 150 teenage of divine love. and young adult Friends from 16 countries, including ‘So as you begin to read, we invite you to remember Australia, Bolivia, Burundi, Canada, Cuba, Guatemala, John Woolman and to read with an open heart, to El Salvador, Italy, Kenya, Korea, New Zealand, Nepal, listen fully, and to feel where the words come from. It Norway, Sweden, the United Kingdom and the United may be a source you recognize. States. All major contemporary theological branches ‘May this book be a journey for you. It has been a of the Religious Society of Friends are represented. journey for us.’ The book is truly an unprecedented accomplishment Spirit Rising will be published in English and among Friends and a profound gift of the Spirit. Spanish by QuakerPress of Friends General The board says: ‘If we have done our job well – if Conference, and available for purchase from www. we have successfully gathered the voices of teenage QuakerBooks.org and other Quaker booksellers all over and young adult Friends from around the world and the world. The English edition will be released in May across the theological branches of Friends – there 2010, and the fully translated Spanish edition will be will be language and content in this book that both available later in 2010. profoundly resonates with you and that is not at For further information: http://www.quakerquip. all consistent with your tradition of Quakerism or org/?q=youthbookhome your cultural experiences. Some pieces may surprise, The two poems below are excerpts from the book. We Cling to Peace This Prayer Has No Words I wish I’d known earlier there would be a fracas, This prayer has no words. Charlotte Gerling. I wouldn’t have come to this chaotic place at all. It has no request, no plea, The very soil, normally gentle, has become malicious, no expectation of fulfilment, Yet we cling to peace, we progress. nor does it belong entirely to me.

Tribe and stature bring discrimination This prayer has no words. So that even we who are educated are without jobs. Its connection is direct, uncluttered. So much poverty, a world of robbery, Peripheral thoughts slip softly out of focus. Yet we cling to peace, we progress. A mind, a heart, a whole being reaches out to its spiritual source. Crying and wailing follow the attacker, Generations are finished by rifle and arrow. This prayer has no words. Too much bloodshed, people displaced, It is an intensity in the chest, a free tightness of breath Yet we cling to peace, we progress. at the same time excited and nervous A boundless feeling, an energy finding direction. God, for that rebellion, has left Satan in charge, while diseases emerge and spread AIDS, asthma, This prayer has no words. tumours. It was not planned or written before We pray in His name, to bring us abundance, but caught me in a burst While we cling to peace, we progress. as I looked to the sky. Lopeto Peter Joanna Waters Lopeto is from Lodwar Monthly Meeting, East Africa Yearly Meeting of Friends (North), Kenya. Joanna is from Portsmouth and Cambridge Meetings.

the Friend, 26 February 2010 25 Letters All views expressed are those of the writer and not necessarily those of the Friend

The problem with Tony Blair to win general elections, for goodness sake? A cynic It is rare to find Tony Blair described as intelligent and might say that all that is needed for that is the ability courageous (26 February). His evidence sounded well to tell lies and get away with it – something Tony Blair on radio, but his ‘body language’ on TV betrayed him. seems particularly good at, as it happens. Mind you, Like many others I regarded Tony Blair as a weak, in two out of the three general elections that Labour sycophantic prime minister, unduly influenced by ‘won’ under Tony Blair they actually polled fewer votes commercial lobbies, such as BAE Systems that led than Neil Kinnock did in 1992 when they lost. Think to dropping an investigation into corruption. He about that. surrounded himself with advisers from the McKinsey Peter Bolwell consultancy whose profit-seeking views were heeded, 19 Priory Close, Hastings, East Sussex TN34 1UJ while MPs’ protests were ignored. This led him to advocate a missile-interceptor site for Britain, Kerry Tony Blair impresses Packer casinos and a third runway at Heathrow. Thank you Joan Robson for expressing very much His great talent (misdirected intelligence?) has been what I felt about the article by Symon Hill (5 for making money. While the UK taxpayer pays heavily February) on Tony Blair at the Iraq enquiry. I was for his protection and expenses, he has made millions against the Iraq war from the start, but I watched of pounds by combining his role as Middle East envoy much of Tony Blair’s appearance at the enquiry on TV with working for a Middle Eastern investment fund and was impressed by the lucid way in which he gave as an international adviser, in talks to develop one of his evidence. The emotive words used by Symon Hill Iraq’s biggest oilfields, and for Tesco – lobbying for bear no relation to what I saw and heard. stores to be opened in the region. Phillip Gething His most dreadful act, however, was to be complicit Farnborough Meeting in the killing of many Iraqi civilians and further destruction of the country’s infrastructure. Many The Bible Iraqis now say they live in greater fear than they did The Bible was invented (and called Holy) by the early under Saddam Hussein. Christians as a prop for their sects, which cater for the Peter Brierley rightly refused to shake Tony Blair’s spiritually immature. hand, offered during a reception following a service All sects are inherently undesirable, in that they at St Paul’s to commemorate the dead of the Iraq war, separate their adherents from others and tend to saying: ‘You have my son’s blood on your hands’. circumscribe their thought and behaviour. MP Adam Price led a bid to impeach Mr Blair and A religious faith should foster the unity of all called for his resignation, saying that MPs who voted people, encouraging their personal development and for war had been persuaded by ‘essentially fraudulent openness to fresh light, not centre on fixed texts such means’. Caroline Lucas MEP said: ‘Tony Blair has as the Bible. committed the gravest error that a prime minister can Leslie Fuhrmann and so if he won’t resign, then he must be impeached’. Worthing Meeting Ken Macdonald, visiting professor of law at the London School of Economics and director of public prosecutions, 2003-2008, summarised this crime in which: ‘… warriors [were] thrust carelessly into death’s way by a prime minister lost in self-aggrandisement and a governing class too closed to speak truth to power’. Barbara Panvel The Friend welcomes your views. Please keep 5 Pear Tree Grove, Shirley B90 1LL letters short and include your full postal address, even when sending emails. Please Unimpressed by Tony Blair specify whether you wish for your postal or I find it somewhat difficult to follow the logic in Joan email address or Meeting name to be used with Robson’s letter (26 February). Standing up to George your name, otherwise we will print your post Bush – like standing up to any other bully – would address or email address. Letters are published have shown courage. Licking his boots did not. at the editor’s discretion and may be edited. Fighting your own battles takes courage. Sending other Write to: the Friend, 173 Euston Road, London NW1 2BJ or email [email protected] people to die while you sit safe behind a desk at home Remember if you are online that you can also does not. comment on all articles at www.thefriend.org And how much courage or intelligence does it need

26 the Friend, 26 February 2010 Ad pages 26 Feb 22/2/10 21:37 Page 2

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Ifield Park Residential and Nursing Home Crawley, West Sussex Ifield Park is set in 3.5 acres of beautiful grounds on the edge of Opportunity for Service Crawley. We offer a permanent home to 72 residents in two resi- The Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust makes grants of over £5million dential and one nursing home. We annually in support of work that seeks to promote a peaceful world, also provide palliative care, respite and short stays. In addition, Ifield social justice and equality. Park has recently opened a new wing caring for dementia. The Trust will be seeking to recruit one or more Trustees to its Board during the course of the next year. This will be done using a Quaker We offer high quality care within a Nominations process. homely atmosphere, to enable resi- dents to maintain as much inde- Prospective Trustees must be members or active attenders of pendence as feasible, with a busy and varied activities programme. the Society of Friends. Trustees serve for an extended period and a commitment of at least 5 years is expected. Trustees must be To visit, or for more details, just able to attend at least eight meetings per year and to spend some call Louise Steward or Jennie time each week on Trust business. This is a demanding but very Whitfield on 01293 594200. rewarding role. If you are interested in exploring this opportunity for service for Friends & Meetings yourself, or could recommend someone known to you who is suited Notices should preferably be prepaid. to the role, please contact the Trust office for further information no Personal entries (births, marriages, deaths, anniversaries, changes of later than 29 March 2010. A full description of the work of the Trust address) £16.35 incl. vat. Meeting is available on our website at www.jrct.org.uk and charity notices £13.91 (zero rated for vat). Max. 35 words. Entries E-mail: [email protected] accepted at editor’s discretion in a standard house style. A gentle disci- Phone: 01904 627810 pline will be exerted to maintain a Post: Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust, simplicity of style and wording which excludes terms of endearment and The Garden House, Water End, York, YO30 6WQ words of tribute. Details: 01535 630230. The Friend, 54a Main St, Cononley, Keighley BD20 8LL. Registered Charity 210037 (in England and Wales)

the Friend, 26 February 2010 27 Letters All views expressed are those of the writer and not necessarily those of the Friend

How we treat partnerships Time to be thoughtful I was grateful for Sylvia Hilken’s article (‘Same-sex Thank you Sylvia Hilken for questioning the marriage’, 12 February) and am very glad this has been assumptions around the Quaker privilege of said. conducting the legal recognition of marriage. As When the government passed the Act that allowed long as Anglicans held the monopoly it was indeed same-sex civil partnerships I was very sorry that they a privilege to have our processes (and Jewish ones) had not taken the opportunity to take the logical next recognised by the state. Ever since the state offered a step of putting all partnerships on the same basis. secular process for registering marriages our role in Surely it is time we treated all partnership contracts that has been unnecessary. as just that – legal contracts – and separated them Marriage is essentially a covenant between two from the religious celebration of marriage, which need people. In our Religious Society we invest it with high not be of any concern to the state. Then we would ideals and I am content that we solemnise marriages have proper equality of all religious traditions – all communally and record them as we do; same or treated in the same way. And people who now live in different gender. It is also useful for marriages to be opposite-sex partnerships but do not want to ‘marry’ registered by the state so that matters of property, might then be willing to enter into civil partnerships, offspring and mutual relationships are understood by which would enable them to enjoy the legal protection the wider society. they ought to have. So long as this legal contract is There is no necessity for solemnisation and referred to as ‘marriage’ some people will have nothing registration to be simultaneous. Indeed, they both to do with it, and thereby miss out on legal protection frequently follow well after the reality of marriage has they should be able to have. already been created, by the couple involved. It would be truly equal if all partnership couples I do not think we should concern ourselves were treated in the same way by the law. This, in my whether registration comes before or after communal mind, is what we should be asking the government to solemnisation, they are both valid in their own way. do as the next step – not trying to cling to and extend The recognition of same-gender marriage has an outmoded ‘privilege’ for ourselves – whether or not indeed opened up a hornets’ nest of questions and the that has any true privilege attached to it. more slowly and thoughtfully we address them the Janet Gilbraith better the outcome is likely to be. Cambridgeshire AM Barney Smith Leicester Area Meeting Births, marriages and deaths Thank you Sylvia Hilken for your thoughtful piece. Escaping from expectations Only one point to add: we don’t seem to worry about Katharine McIntosh isn’t ducking out (‘Lost going to the registry office to register births and deaths generation?’, 26 February) when she responds to ‘What yet we also, in our distinctive Quaker way, mark both do you do?’ with details of her volunteering – she’s events. So why not accept the same arrangement for answering the question. When asking or answering it marriage, that is we are responsible for the spiritual we should escape from any expectation about what process – that enables us to ‘marry’ who we wish – and the answer ‘should’ be – its potential is unlimited. let the state be responsible for the legal process, as it is The question’s value is just that: it’s an open question, for births and deaths? far more welcoming, if we allow it to be, than other David L Saunders common questions-in-welcome. Caprice, Clubbs Lane, Wells-next-the-Sea, Gwen Jones Norfolk NR23 1DP Harlow Meeting

We would like to thank all the pupils and teachers who worked on this issue.

28 the Friend, 26 February 2010 Ad pages 26 Feb 23/2/10 10:55 Page 3

For details of how to place a notice on this page please see page 27. Friends&Meetings Deaths Notices

Peris Miles COVENTRY SIDCOT SCHOOL GENERAL 18 February. Member of Lewes MEETING Please note, General Deepening Quaker Worship Meeting. Aged 79. Cremation: Meeting will be held on Sunday 14 Third of four monthly all-day work- Brighton Council Crematorium March (not Saturday 14 March as shops, come to one or come to all followed by Memorial Meeting at previously advertised) from 11.30am Waiting in the Light: for what? Lewes FMH. Refreshments after- – tea at 4pm. All welcome. To con- Experiencing an wards. Details: Jeremy Coventry firm attendance please email Experiment with Light 01483 283571. [email protected] 10am-5pm, Saturday 20 March Friends House, 173 Euston Road, London (opposite Euston Station). Brenda PYE 18 February. Wife of Admission £10. Pay at the door. Leslie Pye, mother of Christine and Diary Details: 020 7226 5448 or email: Timothy, grandmother of four. [email protected] Attender at Swarthmoor Meeting. EQUALITY, PROSPERITY AND Aged 80. Meeting for Worship at GROWTH 6-8pm, Thurs. 4 March. RAF FYLINGDALES MEETING Barrow Crematorium 1pm, Friday Tim Jackson (Prosperity without FOR WORSHIP Saturday 26 February. Details: Leslie 01229 Growth) and Kate Pickett (The 582391. Spirit Level) in discussion with 6 March 2010, 12 noon - 1pm under Susan Seymour. Quaker Centre, the care of Pickering and Hull AM. Richard H REISS 10 February. Friends House, Euston Rd, London. Followed by picnic at Pickering Peacefully, in USA. Husband of Eva, Free. Registration essential: FMH. Contact 01751 432416 or father of Anthony and Anthoula, 020 7663 1030/1031. 01751 472827. All welcome. grandfather of Rohini. Formerly a [email protected] member of Welwyn Garden City STRENGTHENED BY THE LIGHT Meeting. Aged 93. ILMINSTER LM, SOMERSET. The annual gathering of Quaker Outreach event: Quaker Tapestry Universalist Group at Woodbrooke Philip Samuel Weston WILKINS photographic display with demon- 12-14 March, open to all, with Rex 15 February. Member of Portsmouth strations, etc. 18 to 20 March. Ambler and Julia Ryberg presenting. Meeting, aged 84. Funeral at Information: 01460 259180. £178 residential. Details via Portchester Crematorium, 1pm www.westsomersetquakers.org.uk www.qug.org.uk or Andrew Thursday 4 March. Donations Snow- www.quaker-tapestry.co.uk 01788 562252. drop Trust (01243 573529). Enquiries: Tom Patton (Clerk) 023 9282 7370. or [email protected] QUAKER CHINA GROUP THE CURE FOR VIOLENCE – AN 13 March, 11-4 at Bull Street END TO WAR, before Guernica John Sterry Graham WOOD Meeting House, Birmingham Tapestry, Whitechapel Gallery, 18 January. Husband of Elizabeth Open meeting, all welcome. News London E1, 6-8pm, 25 March. and father of Jenny and Heather. and views. Discussion of future of Public debate, free. Bob Johnson, Former pupil of Sidcot School and group. Bring lunch, drinks provided. James Nayler Foundation, former member of Friends Details from Ruth Baker, 01235 ([email protected]) PO Box 49, Ambulance Unit. Member of 520447 and [email protected] Ventnor, Isle of Wight, PO38 9AA. Godalming Meeting. Aged 90. Memorial meetings

Margaret Wans GILLETT A Memorial Meeting for Margaret, who died on 16 December 2009, will be held at Barnt Green Meeting House, Sandhills Road, Birmingham B45 8NR at 2.30pm, Saturday 27 March. Susan 0114 267 6563.

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the Friend, 26 February 2010 29 Ad pages 26 Feb 23/2/10 10:55 Page 4

Classified advertisements 54a Main St, Cononley, Keighley BD20 8LL T&F: 01535 630230 E: [email protected] Classified ads in NORTHWEST SCOTLAND, Oldshoremore. jobs Friends' self-catering cottages, well- The Friend equipped, sleep 5. Glorious beaches. Standard linage 48p a word, semi- Hill and coastal walking. Peace. Dilys and display 74p a word. Rates incl. vat. Michael, tel. 01971521729. DIRECTOR Min. 12 words. Series discounts 5% Hlekweni Friends Rural Service on 5 insertions, 10% on 10 or more. Bulawayo, Zimbabwe PEMBROKESHIRE NEAR TENBY. Cheques payable to The Friend. Golden sands, castles, Coast Path. Two Small Quaker NGO offering skills training comfortable flats attached to 16th Ad Dept, 54a Main Street and outreach activity in rural communities Century farmhouse, each sleeping 5. Cononley, Keighley BD20 8LL seeks new Director with a record of Peaceful environment. 01834 845868. achievement at senior level. T&F: 01535 630230 [email protected] E: [email protected] Salary and benefits negotiable with family accommodation on site. RUGGED SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Loch See www.quaker.org/hlekweni MOUNTAIN HOUSE, POLAND. Luxury. Torridon. Comfortable house. Log fire. Amazing views/walking. Sleeps 1-8. For details, email Panoramic mountain views. £275 (inclusive). www.holidayhomeinpoland.co.uk [email protected] Brochure: 07818 082897. Mark 01223 423333. (clerk, UK Friends of Hlekweni) [email protected] or call 00 44 (0)7962 321166 by mid-March SPRING/SUMMER IN VIENNA. SCOTLAND, WEST COAST, APPLECROSS. Applications close end of March Comfortable apartment, sleeps 4. Well- Cosy, detached, seafront cottage. Sleeps situated. City of culture, cafés & character. 4. £250-£375 per week. 01520 744385. From £290pw. Short breaks considered. THINKING OF RECRUITING A WARDEN Telephone 01904 416840. or Resident Friend? Contact Quaker Life [email protected] SHETLAND. Exquisite, traditional croft- for friendly, helpful advice. Richard www.holidayapartmentinvienna.co.uk house. Stunning sea and island views. Summers 020 7663 1096 Well, but simply equipped. No TV. [email protected] No smoking. Sleeps 3+. Disabled friendly. WESTERN ALGARVE (NATIONAL PARK). CORRECTED EMAIL: Sympathetically restored house. Unspoilt [email protected] coastal village. Sleeps 2-8. Gardens, pool, undiscovered beaches, clifftop walking, where to stay riding. Historic area. 01832 275395. GUESTHOUSES, HOTELS, B&BS SIMPLE PEACE AND QUIET. West Cornwall. www.vilad.com Cottage on Nature Reserve. Sea view. Sleeps two. Telephone 01736 763803. EDINBURGH. City centre accommodation & at Emmaus House. Tel. 0131 228 1066. for sale to let www.emmaushouse-edinburgh.co.uk SUFFOLK COAST, WALBERSWICK. Email: [email protected] Self-contained studio/annexe. Very close MOUNT HAVILAND, a Bath Friends' to beach. Beautiful, varied walks. Sleeps development for those over 60 wishing to 2/3. £100-£200 per week. Short winter retain independence. 3 roomed ground LONDON: B&B IN CENTRAL, quiet com- breaks £30 per night. Tel. 01502 723914. floor flat for 1-2 people in modern fortable family homes. Double £25 pppn. building (1994). With curtains, carpets, Single £36 pn. Children’s reductions. fitted galley kitchen. Leasehold £150,000. 020 7385 4904. www.thewaytostay.co.uk WEST CORNWALL STUDIO FLAT Sleeps 2. Near Prussia Cove, St. Michael’s Managed by Abbeyfield UK. 07866 Mount, coastal walks, beaches. 01736 933600. [email protected] WARM, FRIENDLY NEWCASTLE B&B 799170. [email protected] Jesmond. Quiet, adjacent Metro/city. Veggies welcome. 0191 285 4155. flatshare sought OVERSEAS HOLIDAYS SELF-CATERING HOLIDAYS WEST LONDON. Quiet, studious, sociable, FAUGÉRES, LANGUEDOC. Well nonsmoking 32 year old male journalist equipped, unpretentious village house. would like to move within reasonable bus/ BEAUTIFUL, RUGGED PEMBROKESHIRE. Ideal for walks, wine, historic towns. 310 tube travelling distance of High Street Two eco-friendly, recently converted Euros pw, sleeps 4/6. Terrace. 15 miles Kensington. Flatshare with 2/3 others. barns on smallholding. Each sleeps 4. north Beziers. Montpellier 1hr, Rent £450-500/month. Thomas: 07891 Coastal path 2 miles. 01348 891286. Carcassonne 90 mins, sea 40 mins. 219542. [email protected] [email protected] Brochure/availability: www.faugeres.co.uk www.stonescottages.co.uk Call Liz 0113 257 6232, email: [email protected] notices CORNISH COTTAGE OVERLOOKING SEA Basic accommodation. Weeks £140-190. LANGUEDOC. Peaceful rural holiday Weekends/short breaks. 0117 951 4384. cottage near Roquefort, Albi, Tarn. Sleeps JOIN THE CONVERSATION [email protected] 5/8. Discounts to Friends. Brochure at: www.yorkportraits.co.uk/lavalette.htm Online Quaker discussion 01653 658203. happens every day at CORNWALL. Adorable cottage near www.quaker.org.uk/forum Penzance. Country views to St. Michael’s Mount/sea. Sleeps 2. 01736 741180. FIND YOUR HOLIDAY in the Friend! It’s free, supportive and Friendly.

30 the Friend, 26 February 2010 Ad pages 26 Feb 23/2/10 10:55 Page 5

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BASE IN GERMANY NEEDED May/June. Two bedrooms. Any town with good transport links. Reasonable rent paid. Please call 0141 332 6722 or [email protected] Quaker United Nations CAT SITTER NEEDED. Comfortable cottage with garden in quiet North Essex village. No public transport. May 8-15. Please Summer School contact Angela Howard: tel. 01371 850423 email [email protected]. 4 – 16 July 2010, Geneva For people with an active interest in international affairs. HAMPSTEAD. Part-time companion sought in exchange for low rent accom- modation by sociable female artist. Must Would you like to study the UN at first hand? be interested in the arts, travel and animals. Refs. 07960 352322/020 7431 7730. Do you want to meet people from all over the world?

LIKE TO KNOW MORE about yourself The Summer School aims to provide an introduction to the work of using the Myers-Briggs Step 2? If so, the United Nations. In previous years it has been especially attractive contact [email protected] to people who have recently completed higher education studies. 01830 540056 or 07748 043603. Application packs available at www.quaker.org.uk or from miscellaneous Helen Bradford (QUNSS), QPSW, Friends House, Euston Road, London, NW1 2BJ. Email: [email protected]

ACCOUNTING SERVICES Deadline for applications – 15 March 2010 Charity Accounts prepared. Independent Examinations carried out. Bookkeeping Services. Trial subscription and free booklet offer Contact David Stephens FCCA on 07843 766685. Email: [email protected] Like to read more about

FRIENDS FELLOWSHIP OF HEALING Quakers and Quaker work? Restoring the Quaker tradition of healing. www.quaker-healing.org.uk Take an eight week trial subscription Advices & to the Friend for just £5 - under half price! Queries QUAKER MARRIAGE CERTIFICATES, partnerships, commitments, notices and Return the form below and we’ll send you other calligraphy. Liz Barrow 01223 369776. your personal copy of the Friend for the next eight weeks. PLUS, we will also send you a free TRADITIONAL PIANO AND PIANOLA copy of Advices & Queries, a short collection of shared insights specialists. All enquiries welcome, servic- ing, restoration, removals, hiring and that act as a reminder and aid in our worship and daily life. purchase. Member Quakers & Business It could, in fact, be called, ‘The Little Book of Quaker Wisdom!’ Group, Association of Blind Piano Tuners. www.cambridgepianolacompany.co.uk We hope you enjoy the Friend and will then consider a regular Tom Poole 01223 861507. subscription. To take a regular subscription call 020 7663 1178. WALK CHEERFULLY beyond your expec- tations in shoes from: James Taylor & Son, Please send me an eight week trial sub for just £5 and free Advices. Bespoke shoemakers, 4 Paddington Street, (near Baker Street), London W1U 5QE. Name...... Tel. 020 7935 4149. www.taylormadeshoes.co.uk Address...... WRITING YOUR FAMILY’S HISTORY? ...... Postcode...... Books typeset for your family’s pleasure. Return with your cheque for £5 payable to The Friend to: Photos and other graphics can be included. Contact Trish on 020 8446 5772. The Friend Subscriptions, 173 Euston Road, London NW1 2BJ [email protected] Offer expires 30 September 2010. Not available for renewals. 02.10QSI Other printed material also prepared.

the Friend, 26 February 2010 31 Ad pages 26 Feb 23/2/10 10:56 Page 6 vol ADVERTISEMENT DEPT EDITORIAL 168 54a Main Street 173 Euston Road Cononley London NW1 2BJ Keighley BD20 8LL T 020 7663 1010 No

T 01535 630 230 F 020 7663 11-82 9 E [email protected] the Friend E [email protected]

Open to the spirit at a Quaker School

Ackworth School The Mount School, York Pontefract, West Yorkshire Girls 3-18; Boys 3-11 Co-ed 2-18. Open Afternoons: 16 March & 7 May, 1.30pm Open Morning: Mon. 3 May (Bank Holiday), 10am Tregelles (Juniors) 17 March & 27 May, 1.30pm T: Rebecca Stephenson 01977 611401 T: Admissions 01904 667500 E-mail: [email protected] E: [email protected]

Bootham School, York Sibford School, Banbury Co-ed 3-18 Co-ed 4-18 Open Morning: Saturday 24 April, 10.30am Open Mornings: Friday 12 March & 30 April: 10am T: Jenny Daly 01904 623261 Open Day Saturday 19 June from 9.30am E: [email protected] T: Elspeth Gregory 01295 781203 E: [email protected] Friends’ School Sidcot School, North Somerset Saffron Walden, Essex Co-ed 3-18. Co-ed 3-18 Sixth Form Taster Day: Tuesday 16 March Open Mornings Weds. 17 March & 19 May, 9.30am Whole School Open morning Mon. 3 May: 9.15am T: Alison Stanbury 01799 525351 T: Admissions 01934 845212 E: [email protected] E: [email protected]

Leighton Park School Bursary support may be available Reading, Berkshire Co-ed 11-18 Open Mornings: Tues 9 March & 20 April, 10am T: Rachael Bolding 0118 987 9600 E: [email protected]

Further details: www.quakerschools.co.uk