D ECEMBER 2014 F ORMER P UPIL N EWS
Old Wheatleyans Winter Newsletter
Welcome to the Winter edition of the former pupils’ newsletter... Dear Old Wheatleyan, There has, as ever, been much to celebrate at Bablake over the last few months! We have enjoyed record GCSE results for three out of the last four years, with 70% of grades in 2014 at A*/A. In 2013, a record 55% of A level grades were at A*/A, whilst 80% were at A*- B and a record 19% at A* in 2014. In case all these statistics appear meaningless, suffice it to say that our pupils consistently achieve very good academic results relative to their ability and that we rank amongst the very top co-educational independent schools in the Midlands! Such success stems from excellent teaching and shared high expectations, enabling pupils to proceed confidently to universities of their choice. We know that happy pupils are pupils who thrive, and we place great emphasis on our nurture of individuals within a caring and supportive community. We are also determined to offer the opportunities of a Bablake education to as many bright children as possible, regardless of income in a harsh economic climate.
December 2014
The Governors remain committed to the provision of excellent facilities to support our pupils’ learning, and plans for the enhancement and refurbishment of our Sixth Form Centre will be announced shortly. Following the complete refurbishment of our Sports Centre over the last five years, pupils have recently benefited from the renovation of our Astro Turf facility, with new playing surfaces and the improvement of the surrounding area. We intend to resurface and improve the on-site netball and tennis courts in the Summer of 2015, thereby ensuring that our pupils can continue to enjoy high-quality sports participation and success. OWs will no doubt look forward to using these facilities at future sports reunions! We were pleased to welcome a number of OWs to our Remembrance Day assembly, led by our new Chaplain, Revd Slavic. “Lest we forget”, Remembrance Day should make us all the more determined: to value the sanctity of each human life, wherever in the world; to play our part in resolving conflicts in our daily lives; to be a force for good in our relationships with others; and to bring peace and reconciliation to our families, to our schools and to our communities. That healing process should be part of education, but fundamentally it starts with you and me. My very best wishes for a Happy Christmas and a healthy New Year, John Watson Headmaster 1
Former Pupil News Katie McDermott - Class of 97 School Captain to enterprising entrepreneur 10 years ago a smiling school captain bode goodbye to Bablake, bound for a degree in Philosophy at the University of York. Now co-founder of Katie & Jane, a bespoke social media training business, Katie worked in London & the Midlands in PR (for Threepipe and Bright PR) working her way up to a Senior PR Account Manager and looking after the PR and social media for the likes of the British Olympic Association, Yo! Sushi, Autoglass, the Electrolux Group and Showcase Cinemas. When Mr Mark Woodward, Head of Careers, who caught up with Katie at Kendall's Deli in Earlsdon to talk about her life since leaving Bablake, asked her what she felt she had gained from a Bablake education, she said: 'Bablake gave me so much opportunity - and I was involved in everything - sport, drama and house activity, but most of all it gave me the confidence to go out into the world and feel like anything was possible.' That confidence led Katie and her business partner Jane Whitehead to approach Virgin Trains and pitch for a contract against leading, established digital agencies within the first six months of trading. Their infectious enthusiasm won Virgin over and they were soon leading training on social media for the company. Where many PR agencies were trying to run the social media for companies from outside, Katie and Jane saw the sense of empowering the workforce inside a company, with all the sector expertise, to run and be responsible for its own social media long term. Since then, as well as working with major clients, Katie & Jane has expanded into apps and has just released its first Lifestyle app: Countdown Keeper- a stylish, customisable and sharable app that allows you to collect all your past, present and future events in one place. Katie explained: 'We had evaluated the App Store for 12 months, looking at trends and consumers, before we decided which app of our hundreds of ideas we would create first. We wanted to create an app that was specifically designed to be fun and sharable, but meaningful and purposeful too. We have lots of additional and useful features in our road map for Countdown Keeper, but we hope for now we have created a loveable product.' This app has been a great success. Within the first two weeks of launching, it ranked in the top 100 Lifestyle apps in over 30 countries, with a raft of 5 star reviews. Even musician Lily Allen showed her support by retweeting Countdown Keeper to her 4.6 million followers! Katie was really excited to explain her new project: Not Dogs! Katie’s business partner Jane over the years had identified a dearth of quality vegetarian food at festivals, and so for a while they had parked an idea they had for a solution. However, not shy of approaching major companies, they pitched to Quorn about the Not Dogs idea and the company loved it so much they agreed to back the project, bringing it forward to this summer. The hot drinks, videos and discussion in Philosophy and Ethics lessons in Room 15 have definitely nurtured a successful businesswoman who loves life and challenges. Katie says she is merely creating products, apps and business solutions she and Jane have wished existed and we cannot wait to see what occurs next!
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Former Pupil News cont… Jack Kelly - Class of 2003 Jack’s courage for Great Ormond Street Hospital Jack Kelly, who now works for Fitness First UK, returned to Bablake and delivered a super assembly to our U6th pupils who were just a few days away from leaving Bablake equipped with exciting plans for their future. He spoke poignantly about his journey since leaving Bablake and the challenges he has faced, saying: 'The endurance races I am taking part in are designed to push you to your mental and physical limit, using obstacles like barbed wire, fire and electric cables and testing phobias related to height, confined spaces and deep water. Some of these races have a failure rate as high as 70%; my first in January left me with hypothermia and at my second, two weeks ago, I fell three miles in and cut my knee open, which made the final nine miles very difficult! People ask me why I am doing this and why I have put myself in those positions rather than arranging a cake sale or sponsored walk. Well, my answer is a few months after preparing for my A Levels, when I had begun my degree at Plymouth University four years ago, I found myself lying paralysed in an acute stroke unit, surrounded by my family, not sure how bad things would get. I was diagnosed with Miller Fisher Syndrome- my immune system was attacking my brain stem and nervous system, shutting my body down and I could not see or walk. The medics feared this would shut down my lungs and stop me breathing. I was very lucky, however, as my condition plateaued and, after some physiotherapy, a few months later I was able to walk properly again and regained my vision. I had effectively received a second chance at life. While in my hospital bed, receiving visits from the pastor and not knowing what my future would be, I had the time to think and examine what I had done in my short life. I came to terms with the idea that what I'd experienced might be all I was ever going to experience and how the friends made and relationships built would be the only ones I would ever know. I realised I had never pushed myself to any limit and did not know what I was capable of achieving.' The audience felt tremendous empathy with Jack's experience and he continued to set them a challenge, saying: 'So I have a question. If you knew you only had a limited time to make an impact, how would you react? Would you spend the time on your own or with your friends and family? How many of you have thought about what you would do if you had your life again? Would you do more than you already have done? Of course you would! The things you have achieved and experienced are only the tips of the icebergs of possibilities for your life.' Jack spoke about the great chance of making an impact, never quitting, seizing opportunities and leaving a legacy. If anyone wishes to help him by donating to Great Ormond Street Hospital, please click here. He has already raised enough money for a ventilation machine and every £100 raised provides respiratory masks for 20 premature born babies.
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Formal Pupil News cont……. Darren Carnall - Class of 1990 Darren’s role in ‘Dirty Rotten Scoundrels’ Following news about dancer Andrew Monaghan, who has been part of the recent 'Swan Lake' tour, we are proud to report that former pupil Darren Carnall, who studied Musical Theatre at Laine Theatre Arts, is Associate Choreographer and a dancer in current West End show 'Dirty Rotten Scoundrels'. This show is a 4-star comedy musical, with music and lyrics by David Yazbek; it is based on the 1988 film of the same name and the book by Jeffrey Lane and the current production has Rufus Hound, Katherine Kingsley and Robert Lindsay among its stars. Also starring in the show is former pupil John Marquez, formerly seen in ITV hit series 'Doc Martin'; he plays Andre Thibault opposite Samantha Bond (known for her roles in the 1990 James Bond movies and 'Downton Abbey').
Will Hine - Class of 06 Whiney’s growing reputation ….. This year has proved another exciting one for Class of 2006 former pupil Will Hine (aka drum and bass artist Whiney). In between studies for his Geography degree at the University of Manchester, he has spent the year building upon the growing reputation he has as one of the UK's best young drum and bass artists. Self-taught musician Will has fulfilled further successful DJ sets in London and Manchester, has been featured on two tracks- 'Sleeplessness' and 'Borderless'- that made Keeno's debut album (that reached no 6 in the iTunes Dance Album chart), and has seen his overall YouTube views pass over a quarter of a million helped by his latest track 'Don't Wait for Me' that featured on Liquicity's 'Galaxy of Dreams 2' compilation. His Soundcloud page has also seen numerous plays. The autumn should see Will's first individual release on Med School, as part of its 'New Blood 014' album, and there are lots of other exciting releases planned on different labels. Regular readers of our Newsroom may remember Will's standing rocketed with the 2013 release of drum and bass track 'Isokime' with fellow artist Keeno on Med School's compilation 'New Blood 13', a track that gained fantastic support from the likes of High Contrast and London Elektricity- pioneers of the scene. His first release on Subsphere Records was swiftly followed by releases on Hospital Records and Med School and he has been able to count on support not just from High Contrast and London Elektricity, but also BCee, KMag, Nu:Logic and S.P.Y. 4
Former Pupil News cont… Katie Ingram - Class of 1999 converts her love of photography into a business One former pupil whose portrait and wedding photography has really stood out over the last couple of years is Katie Ingram, from the Class of 1997, and she very kindly agreed to an interview recently about her life since graduating from Loughborough University. After her BTEC diploma in Art and Design, Katie studied Fine Art for her degree and began to specialise in photography from her second year at universitya creative passion that her father instilled in her when she was growing up in Coventry. Katie, a Nikon fan, now covers more than 30 weddings a year and had already shot seven in the month she met with us. Her work is very distinctive, as she concentrates on a stunning volumised effect for her portraits shots, and there are many galleries on her Facebook page and website to inspire the next generation of Bablake pupils looking to work in the creative arts. Despite meeting Katie on one of the grimmest days, as regards weather, of this glorious summer, she was still able to pass on a few practical tips. Most crucially, she reinvented your reporter's confidence in using the f1.8 50mm lens, one of the cheapest but most versatile pieces of glass that Canon and Nikon users will ever enjoy shooting with.
Former pupil focus - John Coplin Class of 45 At our Coffee Morning reunion for former pupils from the 1930s to 50s, there was a lovely moment when two of the Old Wheats met for the first time since leaving Bablake over 60 years ago. Peter Amery, former pupil and a great ‘friend’ to Bablake, met John Coplin, a distinguished aeronautical engineer. John was the Rolls Royce RB211 aero-engine Chief Designer before landing senior management roles, including Director of Technology and Design, with this employer. John also served on a number of government committees: he chaired the Ministry of Defence Aerospace Technology Board from 1984- 5 and was UK Science and Technology adviser to the Indonesian Government in the 1990s. As well as being one of the founders and chairman of Hiflux Ltd, a firm specialising in high-temperature heat exchangers, Mr Coplin has been a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering since 1980. The British Library website hosts a set of audio interviews- in its 'Voices of Science' series- with Mr Coplin, which offers great insight into our distinguished former pupil's education and career. 5
Formal Pupil News cont……. Roger Worrod - Class of 45 celebrates Dylan Thomas anniversary Controversial first 'rock 'n' roll' poet and broadcaster Dylan Thomas is remembered today on the 100th anniversary of his birth. Born in Wales on 27th October 1914, Dylan Thomas is familiar to many as a prescribed poet for English examinations over the years or as a classroom text for fervent discussion and literary critiques. In 1953, Dylan Thomas died at 39, of complications from pneumonia, in America, where he had been drawn latterly by his stateside following. His legacy was his poetry and play 'Under Milk Wood', while for many his work makes him the most acclaimed Welsh writer. Former pupil Roger Worrod has kindly just posted a new recording of 'Under Milk Wood', 'a play for voices' that he has been associated with for over 50 years. His request is that the recording may be shared with as many pupils, teachers, actors, directors et al as possible.
Emily Brett - Class of 03 starts to create ‘Air Waves’ In between working at global law firm DLA Piper where she is employed in Mobility, managing UK client secondments, former pupil Emily Brett has been volunteering at Radio Plus in Coventry. Emily has been co-presenting the Thursday Drivetime show from 5pm- 7pm since July 2013, so we asked her about this, her new Sunday show and her plans for the future: 'As we are very much a community radio station, for the Drivetime show, we invite a lot of guests in to talk about things that matter to our listeners in Coventry. We cover charity work and local events as well as general topical chat, weather, traffic news and music. During my own show, which is aired on Sundays from 4- 6pm, I talk about celebrity gossip and showbiz news from the past week, and play Connect 4 where listeners can guess the link between four songs I play. I also discuss what's coming up in the next week e.g. film releases, gig ticket releases and events. I've only been doing my own show for a month, but I'm getting more interaction from listeners every week and former pupil Abi Rewhorn is one of my most loyal fans, so it would be good to hear from even more current and former pupils! My dream is to work full-time for a radio station- with a focus on presenting.' To help Emily achieve her dream, promoting her show and increasing listeners would be a super start! We wish her well and look forward to tuning into Radio Plus for her show and those of other presenters! To listen to Radio Plus, please go via its website or 101.5FM. The station is also on TuneIn, which is available as a phone app. 6
Former Pupil News cont‌ Former pupils creating an impact as Journalists Congratulations to former pupils Zain Ali and Beth Rowland, who are making waves in the world of journalism. Zain, a final year undergraduate at Coventry University, was presented with the 'Journalist of the Year' award at an event arranged by the CUSU. Zain, who has completed placements with BBC Cov and Warks, the Coventry Telegraph and Sky News, is now working with Microsoft. In the meantime, Beth Rowland, a first year undergraduate in History and English at the University of Nottingham, has been made News Editor for Impact, the campus magazine. She has also written for Farmer's Weekly, Huffington Post this year and discovered this week that Student Beans (an online magazine) has appointed her editor of the Nottingham edition. Mr Mark Woodward, Head of Careers, commented: 'Both Beth and Zain were prolific writers at Bablake, involved with both Stretch and The Wheatleyan. I am delighted that, as students, this enthusiasm has continued and they have created an excellent portfolio to impress future employers with. They are both an inspiration for our current pupils!' Collage created with photographs from Facebook.
Graduates of 2014 ... Sophie Tumber - Class of 04 News of many of the Class of 2004's graduation ceremonies has been filtering into our news streams on social media platforms and it certainly does not seem 3 years ago that that year group held its Leavers' Ball at Nailcote Hall, the same location as this year's U6th. One of the pupils whose news we have kept very much in touch with is Sophie Tumber, daughter, of course, of our current Head of 6th Form Mrs Alison Tumber, and we congratulate Sophie on her 2.1 from Aberystwyth University. Sophie has, like her peers, fully embraced the opportunity at university to enjoy her course, take on new challenges both linked to her studies and unrelated, and enjoy positive work placements in vacation periods. She is now looking forward to her Master’s at Royal Holloway. While at Aberystwyth University, Sophie enjoyed a seven-week summer internship placement in Brazil. This amazing opportunity with global agribusiness and food company Bunge, with its focus on sustainability and environmental management, formed the basis of her final year project. Sophie's extensive travels while in Brazil were also featured in an article she wrote for the university's Department of Geography and Earth Sciences newsletter. 7
Graduates of 2014 cont‌.. Dan Jack - Class of 09 In May, we reported that Dan Jack, now a final year Computer Animation Arts undergraduate at Bournemouth University, had submitted some of his 3D animations for the Autodesk-sponsored 2014 Computer Graphic Student Awards. At the time Dan explained: 'The Autodesk CG Student Awards is an annual event which showcases and rewards excellence in computer graphics from students and recent graduates, so receiving any recognition for my work would be a great help for my graduate prospects. My goals over the next few months are to land a job or work experience in the film or game industry, preferably working on characters in next-gen gaming or blockbuster films.' Although Dan did not win an award, he did have his work featured on the competition website at one stage and his hopes of a graduate job in VFX have materialised in an offer from MPC to work on the new Disney Jungle Book movie. Dan explained further: 'The film will be a live-action adaptation of the original based on Rudyard Kipling's classic jungle adventure novel. Mowgli will be a real actor and everything else will be computer-generated. They have 70 characters to make, so they said they'd like to get me involved in that. I'll hopefully be helping create some of the more minor characters or smaller creatures.' Congratulations to Dan on what sounds a brilliant project. There will be a number of our Junior School pupils very keen to see Dan's work when the film is released and doubtless a number of older kids (including Dan's contemporaties and our proud staff) similarly eager!
Reunions Successful coffee morning reunion One morning in May, whilst our Shells, 2nds, 3rds and 4ths were enjoying Trips Day following the completion of Internal Exams, a group of former pupils proudly returned to Bablake for a Coffee Morning reunion, organised by Alumni Relations Officer Mrs Sylvia O'Sullivan. The most senior 'Old Boy' who returned had begun his schooling at Bablake in 1939, while the youngest Old Wheatleyan present began 57 years ago in 1957. There was time for reminiscence, an audience with current Headmaster Mr John Watson and, for some, a brief tour around our campus. While many of those gathered had kept in contact over the years, there was a poignant reunion for two pupils who had not met since leaving Bablake over 60 years ago. Mrs Sylvia O'Sullivan said: 'I was delighted that everyone shared the same spirit of friendship and felt the same excitement at seeing Bablake again as our Class of 1993 showed at their own reunion.’ 8
Reunions cont…. Return to Coventry Mr Chris Scrivenor and Dr Craig Wilson, two former pupils from the 1960s, returned to Bablake earlier this month. Meeting current staff Mr Chris West (Head of DT) and Mr Preet Chahal (ICT Technician), they regaled them with tales of old in exchange for an impromptu tour round the main school. Dr Wilson kindly took the time to write to Mr West, after the visit, to thank him for the tour and the warm memories stirred. It was just over 50 years since Dr Wilson, now resident in the USA, enjoyed ‘an idyllic childhood in Coventry’ and he reflected on his life in Cheylesmore and, then, Styvechale finding ‘the fond memories no less fond and no less clear’. After a visit to Coventry Cathedral, which appeared to have changed little in the time gap, in contrast with a return to the ever-evolving Precinct, Dr Wilson wrote that he approached Bablake with a mix of trepidation and anticipation, 50 years after stepping first into Shell L (Mr Larry Lanham’s form). He reported that Bablake felt less imposing and even slightly smaller. The Main Hall with memories of Mr Seaborne’s stern discipline for one of our visitors and Mr Burrough’s gentler face for the other- stirred the most dramatic reaction, since the full length maroon curtains were no longer evident. The Headmaster used to appear from behind these, once they had been drawn back by a senior prefect after the bell had rung for assembly to begin.
Former pupils pre-empt the ‘The New Bablake Generation’ Former pupils who joined Bablake between 1960 and 1964 returned to the school one Saturday in June for the opportunity to meet old friends and have a tour. After the tours around school, where one former pupil discovered his skeleton key for the former Photographic Club Darkroom did not open any of the doors it used to, the group dined in our Bablake Community Room. After a buffet lunch, Senior Prefects Matthias De Veer and Aimee Piercy spoke about Bablake of the 21st century in their welcome speech. One aspect they spoke about was the Bablake community and Headmaster Mr John Watson expanded upon that theme in his talk to the former pupils as well as expressing his pride in both our recent glowing Inspection Report and the Bablake pupils and staff. As one generation prepared to leave the campus, our new Shell pupils for September were beginning to gather in our Dining Room, for a disco organised by our Parents' Association. Time flies so quickly that it will not be long before they too will be reminiscing of their time at Bablake. The 6th Form team helping savoured every minute of the disco, literally and metaphorically the biggest kids at the disco perhaps!
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Reunions cont‌. Sun shines on the Class of 1993 The weather, as if customordered from our Bablake Weather Station, did not let us down one Saturday in May, as the sun shone on all those who returned for our Class of 1993 reunion. Former pupils were given the freedom of the campus for a day to roam the site, revisit former haunts and spot the changes that had occurred in the 14 years since their departure from Bablake. Everyone then gathered for a super buffet in the Dining Hall and reminisced with teachers and friends, amid speeches from Mr Peter Burden (School Archivist and former English teacher), current school captains Jess Betts and Rob Faulkner, and Headmaster Mr John Watson. With former headmaster Dr Stuart Nuttall also present, Mr Watson proudly reported on our recent glowing ISI Inspection report and spoke of his pride in the generous, fulfilled, wellrounded pupils that Bablake has produced for so many generations. Mr Chris West, Head of Design Technology, whose first tutor group at Bablake was a shared form with, the now retired, Mr Graham Burgess (Economics and ICT), was delighted to see those returning, saying: 'It was great to catch up with former pupils from my first ever form group from 20 years ago, see how they have flourished and listen to some incredible stories of where life has taken them. Just as impressive was to hear news of those who could not make it because they now live and work in Australia, Europe, Japan, or the USA. It was also fascinating to hear the true stories behind some 'mishaps' around school and solve some of the mysteries from years ago. The 2nd year visit to Fousseau was probably top of the list of pupils' best experiences while at Bablake. Mr Mark Woodward, Head of Careers, added: 'Once again, it was brilliant to see so many former pupils, reminisce and try and fill in the gaps between 2000 and 2014. I am always staggered by the range of experiences our pupils have had and am really proud of all their achievements. Many have kept in touch, helped with Careers events and been really supportive since leaving, which is such a boon for our current pupils. The spirit of Bablake is a very special atmosphere.' 10
Other News‌.. End Of Season Awards Dinner For The Old Wheatleyans RFC The Old Wheatleyans RFC completed a very successful 2013-14 campaign with its traditional End of Season dinner at Coventry RFC in May. The season had proved most successful, with the 1st XV coming third in Division 3, in only its second season after promotion, under the care of a new coaching and physio team led by Steve Clarke. While the 1st XV reached a Warwickshire Cup Final, the 2nd XV also had an excellent season, winning promotion, under the unstinting tutelage of former pupil, club stalwart and seasoned professional Greg Weaver. As former host Rob McGowan had emigrated to Australia after last season's dinner, Richard Drury and Richard Lowe were masters of ceremonies for the 2013-14 awards.
The following players won the major awards of the night: Young Player of the Year: Daniel Rowlands; Coaches' Player of the Year: Leigh Gallagher The President's Cup: Ian Critchley; Top Try Scorers: 1st XV- Richard Drury; 2nd XV Dan Brooks Players' Player of the Year: 1st XV- Ben Craig; 2nd XV- Leigh Gallagher Best Newcomer: Leo Craddock; Player of the Year: 1st XV- James Rooke; 2nd XV- James Langton Clubman of the Year: Ben Weaver Whether attendees collected prestigious end of season awards or not, the evening was a chance to enjoy some excellent company, fine food and drink, with the celebrations continuing into the early hours. Chairman Dean Bryant reminds everyone that 2014-15 training takes place at 7pm most Tuesday evenings throughout the summer at the Bablake Playing Fields, and anyone who wishes to join the club as a player next season is encouraged to message via the Old Wheatleyans RFC Facebook page. 11
Let’s hear from the Archives…….. I really enjoy being Bablake’s Archivist but even I wouldn’t claim that it was a job packed with excitement and thrills. I do find, though, that I never quite know what is going to await me when I access my emails or my tray in the office. Take one day in September as an example. I had a meeting with Sylvia O’Sullivan and Rachel Hollinrake to liaise with them about the next Reunion. I received various former pupil files and filed them away in the appropriate places. I found a former pupil’s file for the Headmaster’s PA’s office. I tried to find a recent former pupil’s A-Level certificates – and eventually succeeded. I tried, without success, to find a picture which had been made by a friend of the School. I had a former pupil’s admissions record from long ago scanned and sent to his son. I found some clues as to the whereabouts, or at least destinations, of contemporaries of someone who was a pupil in the fifties and sixties. I contacted the wife of a Bablake contemporary of mine who was hoping to get one or two of his old friends along to a surprise birthday party. I phoned someone about a potential gift to our archives. As with everything else, I suppose, it is good when it works. A current Bablake parent mentioned to me at Open Morning that she would love to get hold of a photograph of the prefects when she was one of their number. With help from Andrew McConaghy (and, he tells me, thanks to his wife’s orderly mind) I was able to provide a copy within the day. Equally, of course, it is frustrating when it doesn’t work. So many requests for information at the moment – about fathers, grandfathers, great-uncles or whatever – seem to fall into something of a black hole. Though in general I can find at least Bablake attendance dates for pupils back to the move to this site in 1890, we have very little, if anything, on those who joined the School between 1911 and 1920. The other thing that can be frustrating is that the available space for archive material and former pupil records is being stretched almost to breaking point. When Tony Averns, one of those evacuated to Lincoln with the School in 1940, is kind enough to give us a School boater in beautiful condition and other items I am delighted but also have to think “Where are they going to go?” When clearing out lockers near the Staff coffee bar reveals a wealth of play programmes, plans for the English, Drama and Music block and suchlike, the same question arises. As I write this I have recently received a message of thanks from a former pupil I showed round Bablake when he was over from the States. I am looking forward to showing round another whose wife has arranged a trip to the School as part of the surprise celebrations for his eightieth birthday. It will, I understand, be the first time he has seen the school since he left it more than sixty years ago. It is always fascinating to see whether what strikes people most in that situation is how much the place has changed or how much it has not.
Valete - Mr Rod Prime Former teacher of Classics Mr Rod Prime joined the Classics department in 1968, having been educated at King Henry VIII and the University of Oxford. A popular and effective teacher of Latin to A Level and English to O Level, he was also very committed to games, especially organising basketball fixtures. Seriously concussed in a rugby match in the autumn of 1975, Mr Prime suffered shortterm memory loss. Since then he has been, for so long, a tireless servant of Bablake helping with supervision of the Main School and 6th Form libraries, photocopying and other supportive tasks. Mr Prime was delightfully never shy of expressing strong views, whether on key figures of days gone by or the merits of local stores. We wish him all the best in retirement. 12
Netball tournament raises over £450 for cancer charities This year England Netball has been promoting 'Back to Netball' throughout the country with immense success and Bablake has been delighted to help host sessions in Coventry. To tie in with this resurgence and also to recognise the number of former pupils who are still playing competitive netball at all levels, including in the case of Melissa Croxall and Sarah Thomas in the National League, former Deputy Head Mrs Gill Thomas and Head of Girls' PE Mrs Sue Smith organised an inaugural Charity Netball tournament for former pupils. Around 50 former pupils returned and we were able to compile 6 teams from scratch to participate in a round robin competition. The quality of the netball was of a high standard, an immense tribute to our games staff (past and present)! As well as a chance for former pupils to catch up with their peers' news, the most rewarding part of the day was being able to report that we were able to raise £450 for Breast Cancer Care and Cancer Research from the raffle proceeds and voluntary donations for cakes and drinks. Mrs Smith, herself an Old Wheat/ former pupil, thanked everyone for their support, adding: 'The ‘old’ girls and their families had a lovely day and this event would not have been possible without everyone's support. A wonderful cake, made by Mrs Maria O'Neill (Head of Spanish and Charity Coordinator) was won by Lijana Kaziow.' The final words go to Mrs Thomas, who said: 'Everyone was so generous with their support, with donations and their time, and it was lovely to see so many former pupils and their families. It is lovely to keep links with former pupils and I hope today many of those who returned were also able to re-establish connections.'
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Prize-giving 2014 Leading Sports Photographer Ben Duffy The 2014 Prize-giving at Coventry Central Hall was an uplifting experience for proud parents, delighted staff and of course all the pupils receiving recognition of their excellence. Our guest of honour was former pupil Mr Ben Duffy, one of the world’s leading sports photographers over the last 10- 15 years. As well as presenting the prizes, Ben returned to Bablake earlier in the day. After a tour of the school from Senior Prefects George Esworthy and Mariona Foguet-Gonzalez, herself an aspiring travel photographer and videographer, Ben then met a number of our current U6th Art pupils and staff for a ‘twilight’ session. He gave them an excellent insight into his career path and the opportunities open to them in the creative industries. Mr Lakbir Atwal (ICT) was particularly grateful for key tips on lighting and how to tell the story of a sports tour. One of the most revealing moments though was when Ben confirmed that 10% of his time is actually devoted to the physical photography, with the rest devoted to preparation, logistics, negotiating contracts et al! Ben’s speech was warmly received by all present and we canvassed the staff for their reflections. Mrs Jo MacGibbon (Geography) and Miss Jayne Simmons (Physics), both former pupils, appreciated his comments about school friendships that had lasted, with the former saying: ‘I wholeheartedly agree with Ben’s view that Bablake really is a special place that fosters lifelong friendships amongst peers and an inner self-belief that you can achieve anything you really set your mind to.’ Miss Simmons added: ‘It was so obvious that he had a real love for the school- what an interesting and inspiring speech!’ Ben has photographed almost every imaginable media-friendly world sports star of the last decade. His work is distinctive, respectful and fun; in addition his professional standards, confidence, work ethics, affable nature and excellent networking make him one of the first photographers Adidas, EA Sports and national newspapers will turn to for their images. He is still immensely humble and unaffected by the media machine he works with. Mr Jeffrey Grantham (History) said: ‘I was struck by the humility of someone who moves in such elevated social circles.’ He added that he particularly liked the image of Rory McIlroy that accompanied one of our Newsroom articles on Ben a few years ago. Deputy Head (Academic) Mr Alistair Hopkins was interested by Ben’s reflections on some of his peers: ‘It was fascinating to hear about Ben's career and his reflections on his time at Bablake. In particular, the wide and varied careers of those in his A level Art group (pilot, accountant, leader in the film industry... and of course, international photographer) showed that a Bablake education equipped these pupils with the skills to tackle whichever opportunities they chose.' Headmaster Mr John Watson agreed: ‘Ben’s message was clear and inspiring: Bablake gives you the self-belief to succeed in life and to make the most of extraordinary experiences.’ Mrs Sarah Harris (Director of Marketing and Admissions) gave us our final comment: ‘Ben’s address showed a genuine passion for Bablake and had great celebrity stories. I loved the photos he displayed. What a fabulously exciting career he has had and he's still a young man. His success and happiness really confirmed the wisdom of following your heart and doing what you love.’ We thank all those involved in the organisation of such a successful evening, but especially Ben for his excellent speech and it was lovely to see his very proud parents also in attendance. We look forward to seeing him back at Bablake again very soon, as there is an army of eager photographers in the school, both pupils and staff, keen to be inspired further! 14
Prize-giving advance notice!!! 2015 Prize-giving Speaker - Karen Fraser
We are able to confirm we also have invited Ms Karen Fraser, the first girl to enter into Bablake in September 1975 and currently Strategy Director at the Advertising Association, to return as guest of honour at our 2015 Prizegiving. We will be celebrating the 40th anniversary of Bablake becoming a coeducational school in October 2015 and would appreciate all assistance in tracing as many of the first female intake as possible, especially the 1975-1982 cohort! Please contact Alumni Relations Officer Mrs Sylvia O'Sullivan by email sosullivan@bablake.coventry.sch.uk asap. More news about planned celebrations will be issued during the new academic year.
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Reminiscing with Ken Clark…….. Following on from the Summer edition of the newsletter, the following were kindly sent to me by former pupil Ken Clark,
Staff 1954 Front Row: A.E.Leeson, A.T.Duffield, F.A.Harrison, G. Atkinson, E.A. Seaborne, O.F.Rice, H.Curt, C.H.Raine, J.D.Phillips Middle Row: E.J.Aiton, R.E.Head, V.G.Van Hee, L.C.Philpott, W.W.Woodcock, J.Falla, F.G.Bandy, L.J.Finch, E.L.Lanham, J.E.Malin Back Row: C.B.Aldridge, B.T.Garratt, C.E.Cregeen, J.K.Irons, A.G.Gale, H.Dexter, M.J.Smith, S.Robinson, R.K.Mottram, A.W.Hayes, R.A.Beard
Prefects 1954 Centre Mr Seaborne, Headmaster Front row, second left Ken Clark, right of Ken , Tony Checkley, left of Headmaster is Bill (William E) Couldrick (School Captain), right of Headmaster is Ian McGill, back row third from right is John Mead 16
First Team 1954 Left at back is Mr Duffield, front row left to right: Ian McGill, unknown, Ken Clark, “Tex” Ryan, Bill Couldrick Centre (Captain). Back row fourth from left is Tony Checkley.
U6th 1954 Centre Mr Seaborne, Front row left to tight: John Mead, unknown, Tony Checkley, Bill Couldrick, Ian McGill, unknown, Ken Clark, unknown
We have added names where known, however, there are few missing…...if you can put a name to any of the above former pupils in these photographs please do let me know ! Sylvia O’Sullivan sosullivan@bablake.coventry.sch.uk 17
Sad news …. Former pupil - Cameron Grant Some of our community will already have heard news of the sad and tragic death of Cameron Grant. Cameron was a former pupil (Bablake Junior School 2004-05, Bablake Senior School 2005-12), whose brother Alastair left Bablake in the summer. Cameron was in his final year at Royal Holloway, University of London, studying Geology, and contemplating the possibility of a master’s degree. He had recently been on a family holiday, had celebrated his 21st birthday and had been the proud recipient of his Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award from St James’s Palace. Cameron was also the Treasurer of 'Holloway Ultimate', the Ultimate Frisbee team at Royal Holloway. Those who knew Cameron will remember him as a friendly and unassuming young man, who became increasingly determined to realise his dream of studying Geology, despite difficulties with dyspraxia. He was part of a World Challenge expedition to Mexico and Belize, and also enjoyed scouting and voluntary work outside school. He had a love of the outdoors. Cameron’s family are already grateful for the messages of support they have received, but if you would like to convey your condolences or to share memories of Cameron, please send e-mails, via hmsec@bablake.coventry.sch.uk, or cards, via school addressed to the Headmaster’s P.A.; we shall ensure that they are forwarded. . Cameron’s family is establishing a Memorial Fund in his name. This will be used principally to support young people fighting to overcome poor mental health, and also to support causes and interests dear to Cameron such as: Duke of Edinburgh, enabling young people to go hill-walking, and charities Cameron supported. We are sure everyone will join in our thoughts and prayers for Carol, Evan, Alastair and Cameron’s extended family at this very painful time. RIP Cameron Grant (10th October 1993 – 14th November 2014)
Former pupil and Governor - Trevor Webb Former Pupil Trevor Webb passed away on Saturday after a short battle with terminal cancer, just a few days before his 87th birthday. Born on November 27 1927, Trevor was educated at Bablake School and also attended Nuneaton Grammar School for a short period during the Second World War. He served in the Royal Warwickshire Regiment before joining local firm Dafferns and qualifying as a chartered accountant. Trevor later moved on to the Coventry accountancy practice which had been established in 1930 by his father, and still bears his name, Francis Webb’s. In 1953, following the sudden death of his father, Trevor took over the firm and remained prominent in local business circles, was a Freeman of the City and served as President of the Warwickshire Society of Chartered Accountants in 1973/74. As a councillor on Coventry City Council for 22 years, he represented Lower Stoke from 1967-71 and Bablake Ward from 1973-1990. He served on a number of committees, was a governor of many schools and colleges and made his mark as chairman of the finance committee. Trevor was also chairman of the City of Coventry Conservative Federation and in 2012 was appointed as an Honorary Alderman of the City of Coventry. A lot of his time was dedicated to the city’s schools as he was a governor of both Bablake and King Henry VIII for 32 years, and played an important part in the merging of the two schools. He was then chairman of The Coventry School Foundation for 16 years and upon his retirement as chairman of the governors, King Henry VIII acknowledged his part in the school’s success by naming their new building the Trevor Webb Sixth Form Centre. Trevor’s commitment to Coventry and public and political services was honoured by Her Majesty The Queen in 1988 when he was awarded the OBE. 18
Sad news …. Former teaching staff - Tony Stock We were saddened to learn of the passing of Tony Stock aged 71 after a morning stroll at Torpoint, just across Plymouth Sound, where he lived for the latter part of his life. Tony was a local lad who attended Coundon Junior Mixed School and joined Shell X at Bablake on a LEA Scholarship in September 1953; he progressed up the school in the top stream and aged 15 gained “O” Level passes in English Language (80), English Literature (50), History (70), Geography (70), Latin (55), Maths (75). Physics (65) and Chemistry (70). He then began to specialise in the sciences besides embarking upon a study of elementary German and in 1959 he passed in all three subjects submitted at Advanced Level. He left Bablake in 1960 and went to Liverpool University to read Chemistry. Headmaster Seaborne in his testimonial wrote : “ Stock was quiet and unassuming. He worked well and conducted himself with a sincere attitude towards life. He played Rugby Football and Cricket for his House and was scorer to the 1st XI. While at school he was interested in Railways and Railway Modelling, a keen member of the scientific Society and was also a Server at his church. He had an excellent conduct record here and is of sterling character. He will always be loyal and hard-working and I recommend him with confidence.” He was a sub-prefect. Form-master and Head of Chemisty L.C.Philpott wrote on his final report “ He is of quiet and retiring disposition and seems content to remain so. He is very shy but I feel that a few years at university may well remedy this. “There is a sincerity of purpose in his work. He observes a great deal but talks little. He will always be a loyal and hard-working type, the ordinary citizen. I know he attaches considerable value to a number of activities outside of his work.” Little wonder then that his application for a Chemistry teaching post in 1969 met success! The Autumn issue of the Wheatleyan informs us that Tony had quickly established himself in the Chemistry labs at Bablake but his talents and interests took firm root outside the Science block almost as quickly. He began a most popular car maintenance course for General Studies, helped with games, injected the Transport Society with new enthusiasms, and twisted brains in the Bridge Club. He took on the maintenance of our minibus. Out of school Tony did some part-time coach driving work for a Nuneaton firm and he often regaled us with hilarious stories of some of the outings he had enjoyed over the weekend with a coachload of old folks! After four years` service at Bablake Tony applied for and gained the post of Senior Chemistry master at Manor Park School, Nuneaton. He really was a delightful companion and we remember him fondly. Terry Patchett. 13 June 2014.
In Memoriam Former pupils and staff... We are very sorry to inform readers of the deaths of the following: Mr John Davies (1952-1957) who opened the first video rental library in Bedworth Mr Dick Edmonds (1967-1974) Mr George Jones (Chemistry 1965 -1993) Mr Don Kendrick (1940s) Roger Worrod writes: “Don Kendrick passed away on the 27th December 2013, aged 79. During and after WWII he had lived near me in Cheylesmore and ‘took me to school’ on my first day.” Mr Derek Over (1953 -1958) Professor Kenneth Stephens (1942 -1949) Guest of Honour at Prize-giving in 1993, formerly Dean of Engineering faculty at the University of Surrey Hayley Wilkinson (1994 - 1999)
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Bablake celebrates exceptional Inspection Report Bablake School ‘fully meets its aims of developing character, intellect and physical well-being within a happy, scholarly and caring community’, according to a report published last week by independent school inspectors. The Independent Schools Inspectorate team judged that ‘the school has made significant progress since the previous inspection, underpinned by a culture of self-reflection and the desire for continuous improvement, and that pupils are very well educated in accordance with the school’s ambitious aims.’ It recognised that ‘pupils’ excellent achievement and learning are supported by a wide-ranging curriculum and excellent pastoral care’; that ‘the extensive range of extra-curricular activities is a key factor in the development of pupils’ outstanding personal qualities’; and that ‘the pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development is excellent’, as are systems in place to ensure the pupils’ safeguarding, welfare, health and safety. Senior School Headmaster, Mr John Watson, wrote in his letter to parents: 'As a team inspector, I have been involved in the inspection of seven other highly successful independent schools, and I am delighted to say that none of them has received a report with such positive outcomes as our own! It is especially difficult to achieve an overall ‘excellent’ grade for teaching, so we are particularly proud of this judgement in Bablake’s case.' He also commented on the inspectors’ references to the excellent rapport between teachers and pupils, the extreme pride that pupils have in their school, and the extremely high levels of parental satisfaction. He paid tribute to pupils, staff, governors and parents, and said that the inspection would be a spring-board for further improvement, as the school aimed to give its young people the best possible start in life. The inspection of Bablake Junior School was also especially positive, concluding that ‘the quality of the pupils’ achievements and learning was excellent’; and that ‘pupils are very well prepared for the next stage of their education.’ Mr Neil Price, Bablake Junior School Headmaster, is delighted with the outcomes, as they reflect the strong sense of team work and co-operation that allows all children to flourish. He commented: 'The report is a wonderful testimony to the hard work everyone here – pupils, staff and parents- puts into ensuring a most successful educational experience. From the Early Years to Senior School entry there is much to celebrate. The report says that ‘tolerance and harmony are integral to the community’ and that ‘pupils confirm that they feel happy and safe.’ Bablake remains a very special place to be and we look forward to using this experience to develop the extraordinary education here yet further.' The full Senior School inspection report is available on our main website.
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Alumni Office news The Alumni Office has a new addition! Rachel Hollinrake (Class of 2003) has joined me and the P.E department for a short period following her graduation from the University of Leeds with a LLB Law and Management degree. Rachel has been assisting me in the Alumni Office in updating all the contact details we hold for former pupils on the ‘Old Wheatleyans’ database - some of you may have heard from her already. She has worked methodically through the 1950s decade of former pupils and now has begun data cleansing the 1960s and 1970s. If any of you are still in contact with friends from your school days or have family members who came to Bablake, please ask them if they have received this newsletter. If not – please encourage them to contact us at SOSullivan@bablake.coventry.sch.uk with their email address to ensure they receive all information, such as upcoming reunion events, and future newsletters from the school. Rachel is leaving in December to travel Australia and Thailand for 4 months, beginning her journey in Sydney, when she will return to Bablake in April through to July before going on to study her LPC in September 2015. Rachel has been a tremendous asset to the department but we wish her safe travels and look forward to seeing her back in the office after the Easter break.
Other School Publications You can now read Bablake publications online. Visit the publications section of the school website using the following link: http:// bablake.com/publications_item.php?item=1 and simply click on the cover to view in an interactive PDF viewer. Published annually, the Wheatleyan is Bablake's official school magazine. Each issue celebrates the best of the preceding academic year.
Stretch appears once a year and is edited by a small group of L6th students in their work experience week. We believe it is student journalism at its best!
As well as highlighting forthcoming events, our termly newsletter is an instant record of Bablake’s pupils’ most recent tremendous achievements.
Contact: Email: Telephone: Website: Facebook: Twitter:
Diary Dates Spring Coffee Morning Friday 5 March 2015 sosullivan@bablake.coventry.sch.uk ……………………………………… Drinks reception in London Spring 2015 - Venue to be confirmed ………………………………………. Reunion for 1994 and 1995 intake Saturday 16 May 2015 pfb@bablake.coventry.sch.uk ……………………………………. Reunion for former pupils who started at Bablake 1960-69 Saturday 6 June 2015 sosullivan@bablake.coventry.sch.uk ……………………………………... First Girls - In celebration of girls joining Bablake in 1975 and the full cohort of girls 1975-1982 10 October 2015 sosullivan@bablake.coventry.sch.uk
Sylvia O’Sullivan Alumni Relations Officer sosullivan@bablake.coventry.sch.uk 024 76271259 www.bablake.com/former pupils www.facebook.com/Old Wheatleyans www.twitter.com/bablakeschool 21
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