A View From the Hill
Friends' School Magazine • 2015
Friends’ School
Welcome
Contents Welcome from the Editor
3
Head’s Perspective
4
Friends and Families Day
6
Christmas Words and Music
12
Charity Begins at FSSW
14
School Trips
16
News and Highlights
24
All the World’s a Stage
36
A Year in Sport
44
Art 54 English – Students’ Work
58
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
60
Hello/Goodbye 61 PTA 63 Old Scholars
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64
Welcome
Welcome From The Editor Welcome to this first edition of the Friends’ School Magazine. We hope that you will enjoy the wonderful glimpses of school life, both past and present, which are captured in the pages that follow. Friends’ is a hub of activity throughout the year and the education which all our pupils receive is varied and stimulating, encouraging them to become resourceful, well-informed global citizens, with a strong moral compass. This has been a great year and we can look back on many highlights and distinguished performances. We ended the academic year very strongly in August, posting the best set of GCSE results for some years, with 91% of students achieving A* - C grades, and 32% A*– A. At A Level the pass rate was 100%, with 58% achieving A* - B and a very high uptake of first choice university places. Throughout the year 2014/15 we have seen our students represent us in sport, public speaking, art exhibitions, concerts and drama productions. They have gone out on many educational visits and taken part in competitions and whatever they have done, wherever they have been they have done us proud. Some of the calendar highlights include the Mini Music Festival, the energetic Gymnastics Show and the charming production of Wind in the Willows, all of which ran very close together towards the end of the Spring Term. David Vant won the solo performance category at the Catrine Basil Music Awards in January, with one of his own compositions and we have recently completed a Concert Tour to Paris. We sent a Year 10 and a Year 11 Public Speaking team to the English Speaking Union and the Year 11s, James Rand, Oliver Northover and Matthew O’Callaghan made it through to the regional finals. We heard more of Matthew’s and Oliver’s rhetorical talents at the hustings in the recent Mock Election we held on 7th May. Poppy Munro Scott was awarded a prize for her poetry on the subject of the First World War, François Earp was part of the winning team at the Perse Enterprise Conference, Joseph Man got through to the regional finals of the Rotary Young Chef Competition, where he was awarded the prize for best dish. Brigitte Parnham submitted a winning entry to the National Doodle Day Art Competition. In the Autumn Term we were privileged to host the Society of Heads’ Schools’ Art Exhibition at the Thaxted Guildhall. The quality of the artwork on display from the many schools was impressive but for us the unforgettable work was the centrepiece sculpture of two mountain goats by Imogen Candler, which was selected for a national exhibition.
UN Quiz in November and we also sent a team to the Model United Nations event at Felsted in March. In the recent British Biology Olympiad, William Turnbull, Matthew Morris and Suzanna Cronk all achieved Gold Awards and there were several Silvers and Bronzes too. In Sport our teams have done well, particularly the Senior Basketball Squad. Our regular teams have competed every week against other schools and represented us very well at district events. We are also very proud of the individual sporting success of William Turnbull, Lucy Robinson, Barnaby Deller and Ed Candler, who have all been selected for County Hockey teams. Skye Wicks and Hannah Irwin continue to put in excellent performances in athletics and this year we have run two very successful sports tours, netball and football, to Holland. We have made trips to Rome, Bremerhaven for the German Exchange and CERN for the senior scientists. Next year we plan to take an Outlook Challenge Team to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands and also a ski trip to Italy. Nearer to home, our students have attended many lectures, productions and curriculum events and we have played host to some high quality guest speakers. We have continued with our fundraising and community work, through assemblies, non-uniform days, cake baking, including the weekly bake for Jimmy’s Nightshelter for the Homeless and many other student innovations. Our annual parents/teachers v 1st XI was again a great success thanks to the brilliant organisation of Nick Guest. Student and staff energy was palpable at the Harvest Celebration and in the remarkable staff Christmas recording of ‘Teach the World’ which raised funds to send several girls to school in Tanzania. Our PTA continue their staunch support of the school through their calendar of events: the Bonfire Bash, Christmas Fayre, Charity Ball, Quiz Night and Coffee Mornings. The year’s events culminated in the Summer Fête in June, a lovely old-fashioned family day out which was enjoyed by all who attended. We hope that this and subsequent editions of the Magazine will give you a flavour of school life as it has been during the year and encourage all members of the wider school community, including our Old Scholars and their families, to keep in touch with us and perhaps contribute an article or news item from time to time. Among other things, the Magazine is here to celebrate continuity of tradition as we move through our fourth century of continuous education. Kirsten Batcheler
Our UN Quiz Team of Sophia Wieland, Kamal Taghizada, Lotte Zlotkowski and Miles Burgess won the Inter-Schools
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Head’s Perspective
‘My home is my castle’:
promoting the value of privacy in school ‘... we live in broad daylight inside these walls that seem to have been fashioned out of bright air, always on view. We have nothing to hide from one another.’ This is how Yevgeny Zamyatin described the glasswalled, glass-floored apartments in which the members of a twenty-sixth century dystopian society dwell. In his 1924 novel, ’We’, Zamyatin portrays a society with a collective dream of technology, a society without the concept of the individual, a society without privacy, living in a true age of the ‘goldfish bowl.’ In a modern democracy much is made of the concept of privacy, although an exact definition in legal or philosophical terms can prove difficult. Nevertheless, privacy is widely regarded as an adjunct to individual freedom, a right, essential to our psychological wellbeing and self-respect. There are aspects of our lives which we regard as private, information, thoughts and opinions which we prefer to keep to ourselves. Surely everyone would agree that we need a degree of privacy in our everyday lives, a time when we can shut the door and ‘be ourselves’, relax, daydream, reflect and think clearly. Children also need to learn the concept of privacy and to develop reflective space in the course of their daily lives. The importance of reflection as part of the learning process is well established. Some schools have introduced programmes of mindfulness or meditation into their curriculum. Spaces are set aside, ‘thinking corners’, where pupils can seek solitude and quiet time to read or simply sit and think. The creation of true reflective space is, however, more than a physical reality or a set time within the school day. It is a state of mind and in school we need to inculcate this in our pupils, to develop their desire to be alone but not
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lonely. If this can be achieved, the pupils may develop greater self-reliance and reflect maturely on their interaction with others. In periods of calm, questions will occur to them and they will have the time and space to work out their own answers. Creativity will flourish if the imagination has time and space to grow. Finding this private space is proving to be a challenge for both families and schools in the context of the internet society, the 24/7 culture of constant connection and communication. There has never been a time in human history when people of any age could have instant contact with anybody at any time and virtually unlimited access to images, opinions and information of all kinds. When every mobile phone is also a mini computer, camera and recording device which can be connected to the internet almost anywhere, every moment of our lives can be shared at the touch of a button. The proliferation of social media and avenues of electronic communication has gathered a momentum of its own and is moving at a pace which scarcely allows us time to adapt or work out a moral perspective. Our job as parents and educators is to guide the young people in our care into a new era in which we ourselves do not necessarily feel comfortable. How do we help them judge information from misinformation, dissuade them from wasting time in endless streams of electronic gossip, advise them on which images they may safely share and which sites they should avoid, when we ourselves do not always know what is out there? The front door of our homes, the school gates are no longer the protective barrier they once were and somehow we must find a way to educate young people to behave responsibly, safely and with discernment in their relationships with others. Moreover we should not
Head’s Perspective
be afraid to intervene and prevent where we see this as necessary to their wellbeing. Schools are required to develop policies of increasing complexity to safeguard pupils; internet-related bullying and safeguarding issues are occupying significant amounts of time in school, even where the incidents reported often take place outside school. It is more necessary than ever to work closely with parents to support and advise young people and above all we must try to set an example and set some clear directions. Our children may appear to be a great deal more electronically savvy than we are but this does not mean that they know their way through the virtual or the real world. Friends’ School is a Quaker school and as such, places strong emphasis on reflection and silence. Every week we meet as a whole school for a period of silent worship and this space for thought is respected and valued by both staff and pupils. Silence and listening is integral to our educational practice and a year ago we decided that we wanted to try to impact on the developing culture of internet gossip; as a school we felt that our world was becoming a place in which everyone was talking but no one was listening. After a brief initial trial, therefore, we have asked our pupils not to use their electronic devices during break times and lunchtimes and we have encouraged parents to get their children to leave their phones at home wherever possible. Tablets and small laptop computers are welcome in the classroom but they are to be used as working tools in the school day and free time is to be used to socialise, chat, exercise and get outdoors, or else seek some peace and quiet in the many attractive spaces around the school campus. Parents have been supportive of the move and although staff
must take the time to reinforce the policy and set the example by not using their own mobile phones around school, this has greatly enhanced the positive and respectful social atmosphere of the school day. This may seem a relatively modest thing to have done but it has two practical outcomes: Firstly we reduce intrusion and distraction during a substantial part of the day and secondly we are encouraging healthy social interaction and creating more space for listening. This is firmly underpinned by our Quaker principles. After school we cannot control what pupils do once they leave in the evening but in engaging our parents, we hope that they will continue the good work for us at home. We accept the challenge of educating our pupils into the technological society; we embrace the use of technology as an essential part of learning and preparation for the world beyond school but we are also trying to focus a strong light on personal and social development, since it is only a confident, wellrounded and responsible individual who will be able to contribute and take a full part in adult society. We should be doing all we can to guarantee some privacy and reflective space and time, so that young people can develop a sense of inner peace and strength. Zamyatin’s twenty-sixth century hero was scathing about the living conditions of today: ‘Maybe it was the strange opaque dwellings of the ancients that gave rise to their pitiful, cellular psychology. ‘My home is my castle’. We need to retain those castles in our minds and in those of our children. Privacy and a sense of space have never been more important. Anna Chaudhri
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Friends and Families Day
Friends and Families Day Another brilliant Friends and Families Day saw our whole school community come together for our annual day of celebration. It is always a wonderful thing to see so many parents, grandparents, siblings, friends, former pupils and Old Scholars enjoy our speech day. The Quartet, as ever, spoke with poise and confidence which is no mean feat in front of a packed Sports Hall full of faces! Their speeches are printed here for your interest and entertainment! It was a pleasure to host our guest speaker, Piers Loxton Edwards (of the Edwards’ Family Awards) and in spite of changeable weather our spirits were not dampened as picnics went ahead, the Old Scholars’ cricket match was hotly contested, the dance troupe entertained us outdoors and the Junior School Big Song and Dance provided a fantastic display of colour, movement and fun. A delicious afternoon tea with some live music provided a lovely finish to this very special day on the school calendar.
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Friends and Families Day
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Friends and Families Day
The Quartet Claudia McCrea 14th August 2013 it became very clear soon after arriving at school to collect my AS results that I would be retaking year 12 again. Due to a lack of confidence and self-belief I had not achieved the grades to even consider applying to university. To ensure I improved my grades finding the right school was vital. With very little time I visited a few schools, from Oxfordshire to North Essex, and found Friends’ to be the most welcoming. This was particularly evident during my first week on the school bus, when various students in other years would engage in friendly conversation. At any other school, that would be a casual “hello”. At Friends’, I had five students pile on top of me. Although painful, and a little alarming, it was very welcoming. I have never been to a school where the students in different year groups are such good friends. This is just one thing that make Friends’ so unique. I couldn’t do this speech without thanking all the teachers I have had over the last two years. Mrs Mac - I will never understand your love for plants, but I’m not complaining because you have been the best biology teacher I have ever had. Mrs Millard - what you lack in height, you make up for in chemistry knowledge. Mr Dant - I’ve never known a Chemistry teacher to break the apparatus more than the students, until now. Biddy - great things come in small packages and this certainly applies to you. I will miss our chats and the tea and cakes. Thank you so much to all of you. You have helped me regain my confidence and reminded me why I love my subjects. As most people know, Friends’ School isn’t just about obtaining good grades. Over the last two years, I have made some great friends and have lots of fond
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memories that I will never forget. Soon after joining I was begrudgingly made to go camping in October, having to measure 640 rocks and being forced down a dark cave by Miss Sargent. Although I may have complained at the time, I secretly enjoyed it. This year I was also given the opportunity to go to Rome. Finding our way around proved to be quite a challenge. A sense of direction and Miss O’Neill do not go hand in hand. Despite this, it was a great trip. Although I have only been here for two years Friends’ has helped me in so many ways. Thank you for choosing me as a member of the Quartet. This was a real privilege. Although it seemed quite daunting at first and has kept me busy, I will always be proud that it is because of me there is now juice on Fridays. I have really enjoyed this role and I am so happy I got to share my experience with Kate, Paul and Yerzhan. Two years ago the possibility of going to university was non-existent. But thanks to Friends’ and everyone that has supported me, I am hoping to study biochemistry at Newcastle University next year. Finally, I just want to thank Mrs Chaudhri and Mr Slinger, for welcoming me into your Sixth Form and helping me to reach my potential. I will never forget my time here; although short, it’s been sweet. Thank you. Claudia McCrea 9th May 2015
Friends and Families Day
Kate Roberts 407 days ago it was announced that I would be a member of the Quartet and I have been regretting this moment ever since. For the past five years I have seen four other Quartets read their speeches to an audience like yourselves so being here speaking to you feels surreal. When I first arrived at Friends’ School in September of 2010 I was literally crying my eyes out. I was greeted at the main door by the staff with open arms and smiles...Now you can understand why I was crying… I remember my first day quite clearly, I had no idea what being at Friends’ would hold for me. I had heard a lot of rumours about private schools; I had heard that private school teachers were strict and scary looking… so you can see why I was apprehensive. So when I walked into my first class, nerves flying everywhere, opened the door… and there was standing... Mr Cusick Smith, to my relief. The rest of that day continued to surprise me mainly because how friendly everyone was. The rest of Year 9, 10 and 11 flew by so quickly I barely remember most of it yet I will never forget the alarming sound of Mrs Askew’s voice when my fellow roommates and I attempted to fly a mattress down three flights of stairs one evening. For the sake of innocent ears, let’s just say she wasn’t happy. My year group from Years 9 to 11 wasn’t exactly the school’s most popular set of students as I’m sure most teachers would agree. Most of our greatest moments, were nightmares for some of the teachers. Don’t worry staff I won’t torment you. But I sincerely do apologise to Mr Mordini for that time we locked you out of the Year 10 common room and to Mrs Golden for jumping out of the RS window during your lesson. I am grateful to Friends’ for their full range of teachers; thanks to all the teachers I had in the lower years such as Mr Dant, Mrs Allwood, and Mrs Armitage and of course thanks to you Mr Twinn. Also thanks to those who never taught me but were always there if needed. But I can say it was down to my A-level teachers who have really guided me through my final two years, with me hopefully accepting my place at Brunel Business School in London to do Business Management and Marketing this September. For some reason history remains my favourite subject and that has been down to JSB and Miss O’Neill mostly because of your enthusiasm and tolerance. JSB I can’t lie and say that 19th century British politics has been the most interesting subject
I have ever been taught, yet I have learnt a lot. Miss O’Neill you have been the only teacher I have had throughout all of my time at Friends’ School and after five years my most memorable moment has to be our trip to Rome. Myself and fellow other 6th formers travelled to the Vespa infested city in February half term. Despite Miss O’Neill convincing us all that she had been there so many times and that she knew the area like the back of her hand, we arrived late 80% of the time, got lost 95% of the time with Miss O’Neill being right 5% of the time. At one point we even thought she had dragged us into in a riot. But don’t worry Miss we forgive you mainly because of the pizza. To Miss Sargent and Mr Slinger …I used to like Geography... for those who don’t know, on 17th October 2013 I experienced the worst moment of my life at the expense of the Geography department. Cutting the story short, we were 100s of metres underground in a dark claustrophobic cave, till I was brought physically to tears. Despite this however, you two have been two of my favourite teachers; fun, kind, informative and only occasionally boring. To Mrs White you are my favourite Business Studies teacher indeed you are the ONLY Business Studies teacher. Thanks for everything including the routine chats that have nothing to do with the actual course; you have been instrumental in my passion for carrying on business as a career. I can’t do this speech without giving a special shout out to the boarding staff being my home away from home for the last five years. Mr Kiely thank you for making boarding such a welcoming place, you have managed to stand up against the legends that were Steven Staerck and Barbara Askew, it’s like you’ve been here for years. To Sonia, Mrs Camp, Grant, Mark, Mr and Mrs Batcheler and to all the other boarding staff thank you for all your help over the years. For those continuing at Friends’ don’t underestimate how lucky you are to be in such a kind, friendly and welcoming environment. In the next few weeks I will be taking my A level exams and then leave the school officially after the Summer Ball in June, yet I will not leave behind my great memories and true friends that I have made here. Kate Roberts 9th May 2015
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Friends and Families Day
Yerzhan Sadyk I have thought long and hard about how to start this speech. Some advice I have had is, “Whatever you do, don’t try to be too charming, too witty or too clever – just be yourself”. So here goes! Hello my name is Yerzhan. Personally, the most memorable day at Friends’ was the first day here, back in September 2011. Having a long eight-hour flight and another two hours of getting to school, by the time I got to Friends’ I felt exhausted, but at the same time excited to see where I was heading. For me, coming to Friends’ wasn’t just a change of one school to another. It meant getting used to living in a new country, socialising and being taught in a different language to my mother tongue. Not surprisingly my English was terrible, besides it didn’t get me any further with conversation other than “Hi, how are you?” and I had no clue what my lessons were about. But the only advantage I had over English students was that, I had a brilliant excuse in case I forgot to do my homework, referring to my lack of English. Fortunately living in England and hearing the language 24/7 made my level of English progress; well that’s what I think! You can decide after this speech! Boarding at Friends’ is something that will always stay with me, getting to know people with different views, interests and cultures only broadened my knowledge. Being a boarder has given me a lot in terms of being independent, resilient and valuing other people. Physics, Maths and Further Maths are the A-levels that I am currently doing and Physics was the subject that I had least understanding in, but with all the
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help, motivation and the effort that was put in by Wayne Steel and Genevieve Millard, slowly but effectively I have started seeing the light in my understanding of science; so thank you. Adrian Clarke, Vicky Charlesworth and Geoff Curtis your Maths lessons were always open and chilled and yet thank you for integrating my skills. Thanks to Nick Batcheler and Grant Ward for the endless support in sport. Matt Kiely and Sonia Hood, thank you guys for making the boarding feel like home to every boarder. Lastly thanks to Jane Henfrey, an ESOL teacher who played a huge role in my first few years in England, always being supportive. What I am planning to do next? Well I have been accepted by the University of Nottingham where I am hoping to do mechanical engineering for the next three years and certainly the experience that I have gained while being at Friends’ will benefit me further in my life. For me, Friends’ always will be a small community of students, where you know each and everyone, and for this reason it will always be a place that I will remember and cherish. Thank you. Yerzhan Sadyk 9th May 2015
Friends and Families Day
Paul Yeung “Friends, Romans, Countrymen – lend me your ears!” – only I’ve lost mine! Good morning, everyone, I’m Paul. As you can tell, Drama has played a great part in my life at Friends’ and it is one experience I would never have had in Hong Kong. In fact, there are many experiences I would never have had if not for Friends’ – like the friends who helped me to learn how to shower by Braille, by repeatedly turning off the lights in the shower! And how to deal with a pigeon trapped in your room, and how to flush a toilet when it isn’t working (you wait!)
Serena O’Connor, I would not have discovered my interest in art. Thanks to Mr Steel and Mrs Millard, you have completely changed my understanding of the world by feeding me with the knowledge of physics. Thanks to Mrs Charlesworth, Mr Clarke and Mr Curtis for your patience while talking me through every step of the questions that I didn’t understand.
My first day set the tone for the rest of my five years here. People were shouting my name across the field when I first arrived, and I thought, “What a weird school this is!” And I was right – but it’s a good weird. So what does weird mean here? For me, the chance to argue with teachers about the answers is weird – and wonderful. The chance to try new stuff is also wonderful, as is the support you gain from teachers and the chance to make many friends.
Thanks to Miss Henfrey, who was my ESOL teacher, she helped me to learn about the wider world and gave me confidence to try. It was Mr Staerck who always said he wanted to train me to become an English gentleman – I told him it wasn’t possible, because I am Chinese, but I hope he is not disappointed?
Working in the Quartet this year gave me a chance to work with the students in other years, which has been a pleasure. It is lovely to be greeted by name by the younger years. It has also given me the chance to work REALLY HARD! I learned quite a lot.
Having been here for five years, I must have become a bit institutionalised, a bit like being in prison – first I didn’t want to come here, now I don’t want to go. But the doors are wide open and it’s time. And Friends’ has given me good strong wings to fly.
So many people have given me so much in this school. If it wasn’t for the support and encouragement of
Paul Yeung 9th May 2015
Finally, thanks to all the staff and students who have helped me through the years.
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Christmas Words and Music
Christmas Words and Music 10th December 2014, St Mary’s Church
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Christmas Words and Music
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Charity Begins at FSSW
Charity begins at Friends’ School There are times when the problems of the world seem just too big and too many to tackle. Every day’s news brings stories of need and hardship around the world and the morning post often brings letters from charities requesting support for a variety of causes. But the old Scottish phrase ’every mickle makes a muckle’ could apply to the attitude of staff, parents and pupils at Friends’ when it comes to charity. Across the school every year there is a bustle of charitable activity and the wholehearted enthusiasm with which everyone gets involved is inspiring. Take the annual Harvest Celebration in the Senior School as an example: the
House Fundraising in the Junior School This year each House took on a fundraising challenge for charity. Cadbury opted for a cake stall and baked over £220 worth of goods for Wood Green Animal Shelter while Fry decided on a Saturday morning Jumble Sale which was open to the public and raised an impressive £520 for Accuro. Penn held a film night in June raising an impressive £465.25 for Cancer Research and Red Balloon, a Cambridge based charity for the recovery of bullied children.
pupils bring in fresh produce and other foodstuffs and these are displayed before being loaded on to the school van and driven off to Jimmy’s Night Shelter for the Homeless in Cambridge; the staff bake cakes and these are sold at breaktime and we all enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of a non-uniform day, which raises further funds. Last year we raised around £800 and the proceeds were divided among three charities. Our founding Quaker principles underpin a genuine concern for, and engagement with, the wider community; we believe that we can each do a little and that the little we do makes a difference.
Kilimanjaro Young Girls in Need We have been supporting the charity, ‘Kilimanjaro Young Girls in Need’ for a number of years, which raises money so young girls in Tanzania may go to school. We are very proud that we have raised enough funds to cover the costs of giving a number of young girls an education for a year. The Quartet decided that their fundraising during the Autumn Term should support this project so it was brilliant to see students come together to raise money in a number of different ways. A Christmas Jumper non-uniform day, an austerity lunch on the last Friday of term, the sale of Christmas biscuits (with thanks to Year 9 and the Food Techology Department) and the school disco all helped towards the total. A number of staff got in on the act too. There was busking in centre corridor and a staff version of Band Aid 2014 – ‘Teach Aid’, which premiered during a school assembly thanks to the talented trio of Jess Armitage, Richard Smith and Robert Pepper. Over £600 was raised for this Over £600 worthwhile cause. Our thanks to the was raised Quartet and all the students, parents and staff who gave so generously.
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Jimmy’s Cakes It was in 2010 when a presentation by Jimmy’s Night Shelter during a school assembly, got Food Technology teacher Catherine Whyte thinking. “I had wanted to create a small, manageable scheme that would enable pupils to use their talents to benefit others. This seemed the perfect opportunity to link our pupils with a project where real ‘home cooking’ would be appreciated.” Since that time, a small group of pupils from Friends’ School have spent their lunchtimes every week to make ‘Cakes for Jimmy’s.’ It is testament to both Catherine and the pupils’ commitment as they all give up their own time during the week to help others, especially as it’s a strict rule of the club that they aren’t allowed to sample any of the cakes! Pupil views are best represented by Jonny (Year 8) who said “ I just love cooking – my ambition is to become a chef. I’ve been inspired by my dad, who owns a café in Cambridge. So this is great work experience for me, as well as helping people who aren’t so lucky. I felt sad when I heard about those guys and wanted to do something to help them. ”
Nepal Emergency “What can we do to help?” was the first question asked by pupils in Year 5 after seeing the news coverage of the devastation caused by the earthquake in April in Nepal. They quickly organised a programme of fundraising activities in order to help those affected, holding a bucket collection from staff and parents, followed by a red and white-themed non-uniform day and cake sale. The grand total raised was £708, which was matched by the Independent Association of Prep Schools and donated to Save the Children’s Nepal Appeal.
Catherine delivers the cakes every week to Jimmy’s, who are always so pleased with the contribution. They have come to rely on it and look forward to the weekly delivery.
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School Trips
The Classroom without Walls School Trips at Friends’
There is nothing like seeing and experiencing ‘the real thing’, whether that is an interesting coastal rock formation, a famous painting or a foreign city. This is what brings learning to life, gives it proper context and creates a sense of wonder for us all. Included in this section is a taste of trips at Friends’, so read on to find out what our pupils have been up to…from a first overnight visit to an expedition in Peru…
Early Years Visit Hatfield Forest Bringing their ‘journey’ theme to life, children in the Early Years took on the public transport system, travelling to Hatfield Forest by both bus and train. All went smoothly and once there, the Forest provided an exciting day ahead with a National Trust art activity in the morning followed by picnicking in the woods, climbing trees and building dens in the afternoon.
A Fiery London Adventure Years 1 and 2 were thrilled by the sights of London, as part of their investigation into the history of the capital and the Great Fire. They were fascinated by the old-fashioned fire engines in the Museum and impressed by the grandeur of the Tower and Tower Bridge….and, of course a spot of lunch with the ravens.
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School Trips
A Night Away for Year 3 The old-world charm of St Mark’s College was enjoyed by Year 3 as they undertook the adventure of a first residential visit. Lunch in the Great Hall and decorating heraldic shields seemed just the right thing in the peaceful old building but there were also the noisier attractions of an African Drum Workshop and a campfire at night to finish off a memorable day. As Heston put it, “It was my first residential trip at school and I felt really excited and so happy!”
Annual Visit to Flatford Mill Pupils in Year 4 on the search for small mammals, pond-dipping and sketching in the inspiring setting of Constable country.
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School Trips
Things ain’t what they used to be… …. and perhaps Year 5 are quite glad about that after their visit to Audley End House, as part of their study of Victorian England, where they compare the lives of rich and poor. The stark contrast was brought to life in the great house, as the children learned that they would have had to get up at 4.00 am and work until dark, fetching and carrying all day, at the beck and call of their ‘betters’. True enough, as servants they would have been well fed but, as one boy wryly observed, ‘That’s probably so they could carry the heavy coal scuttles, fill buckets of water and empty the chamber pots even quicker.’
Year 7 Visit Woodbrooke As part of National Quaker Week, Year 7 made their annual visit to Woodbrooke early in the Autumn Term. The trip serves to help Year 7 get to know each other really well and bond as a year group. They led the Epilogue (a final Meeting for Worship at bedtime) each evening and learned a lot about the history of Quakers, their faith and practice and their contribution to society. As ever, the week culminated in what was a highlight for chocolate lovers among the group, with a visit to Cadbury World! The trip, which was full of fun, but also of reflection, proved a valuable excursion in the Year 7 programme
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School Trips
Snowdonia Conquering the Summit
Wales provided both warm weather and magnificent scenery for Year 5 and 6 as they set about measuring rivers, exploring the glacial features of Cwm Idwal, and experiencing first-hand what it is like to climb to the summit of Mount Snowdon. ‘Tired, but I made it,’ puffed Thomas Brafman-Kennedy at the top, closely followed by Isolde Northover and Michael Wilson who both agreed the long trudge up the mountain was ‘an epic adventure’. This trip is a regular feature in the calendar and inspires some fine project work on the return to school. Some of the geographers, biologists and environmental scientists of the future will have started their journey from the base of Mount Snowdon.
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School Trips
ESOL Students get a taste of Strasbourg Our ESOL students took in the delights of Strasbourg during the May Bank Holiday break. They managed to jam pack the long weekend with a busy programme of interesting visits and exciting activities. The group visited the European Court of Human Rights, toured Strasbourg centre on Segways and had a day at Germany’s largest theme park, Europa Park. Not to forget the fantastic shopping and delicious meals out in the city! It was agreed by all that Strasbourg is a beautiful place to visit.
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School Trips
Sixth Form Scientists return to CERN For the second year running a group of Sixth Formers along with Genevieve Millard and Wayne Steel travelled to Geneva to see the Large Hadron Collider at CERN and the UN Headquarters. Upon arrival the group enjoyed the obligatory cheese fondue in Geneva’s Old Town, which provided a nice start to their whirlwind couple of days. The news, once at CERN was brilliant - they were able to go on an underground tour of one of the experiments due to the upgrade work taking place on the magnets, allowing more visitors into the tunnels. After descending the 100m tunnel they stepped into the cavern to investigate the old decommissioned DELPHI experiment...and felt very fortunate as they were able to walk the short distance through 4m of concrete shielding into the cavern of the magnificent LHCb experiment. The scale of the detectors was astonishing. The CERN tour guide, Dr Zhongliang Ren, answered all the group’s questions, (even all of Wayne Steel’s!) and pointed out that one of the primary aims of the LHCb is to find candidates for the universe’s dark matter. A truly inspiring visit for our group of talented scientists. The inspiration did not stop there however. A tour of the UN Headquarters was next on the itinerary and was equally stimulating. It was great to see our students impress with their knowledge of the Human Rights Council and other agencies within the UN such as development (UNCTAD and UNESCO) and health (WHO). Another wonderful educational trip to Geneva – not to mention another chance to bring back mountains of Swiss chocolate!
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School Trips
Religious Studies, History and Critical Thinking Students’ visit to Rome A group of 15 students travelled to Rome on a joint RS, History and Critical Thinking trip. They visited the Catacombs and the nearby site of the Ardeatine Massacre in WWII. The riches of the Vatican Museum, the Pantheon, the Jesuit Church of Il Gesu and St Peter’s Basilica contrasted with the grandiose and pristine EUR district built by Mussolini and the monumental Palace of Vittorio Emmanuele, built to celebrate the unification of Italy. The reconciliation of the Church and State affected by the Lateran Pact of 1929 is embodied by the Via della Concilazione, created by Mussolini to give an unimpeded view from St Peter’s Basilica to the Castel Sant’Angelo. The students were able to gain some understanding of the complex patchwork created by Rome’s chequered history and the fluctuating decline and regeneration of religion and empire.
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School Trips
Year 11 and Sixth Form Students’ Expedition to Peru Eleven students from Friends’ seized a rare opportunity to take part in a three week-long summer expedition to Peru. Managing on a food budget of $6 a day and sticking to strict transport and accommodation budgets, the students had to book hotels, transport and arrange communications once they landed in Cusco (after three flights!). They also got to help Annie celebrate her 18th birthday with home cooked Lomo Saltado and a chocolate cake! From the outset they had to think ahead, work together and problem solve all at the same time. They had not counted on one of the team becoming ill during the trekking phase of the trip, but the group improvised and adjusted the plan to fit. The group also had a leader from Outlook Expeditions who helped to provide guidance while keeping the students in the driving seat of the trip. The group travelled to the Sacred Valley for the project phase
of the expedition and the task of laying a new floor for the community building in the remote village of Rumira Sondormayo. At 3900m above sea level and no local people who could speak English, the project certainly provided a challenge for the group. Sign language, a phrase book and enthusiasm by the bucketful proved that a group of students from Saffron Walden could get the job done, work together and help a small community in Peru. The visit to Machu Picchu was undoubtedly the climax of the trip and allowed the group to see the 15th-century Inca site and one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world today. Hannah Sargent, Head of Geography said, “We climbed the 450m vertical ascent to the site in time for sunrise and were rewarded with a most spectacular scene. Ancient ruins appeared in the sun, beautifully preserved to highlight how the Inca royalty lived their lives. A beautiful way to round off what was a truly amazing and inspiring trip for all of us.”
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News and Highlights
News and Highlights
Visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau Sixth Formers, Miles Burgess and Emese Karolyi along with RS teacher, Helen Golden joined 200 other students and teachers from the South East, on a one day journey to Poland to visit the site of the AuschwitzBirkenau concentration camps. The Holocaust Educational Trust arranges and generously subsidises this opportunity. “In all areas of my work I try to encourage tolerance and understanding and show that (in the words of the Buddha) “hatred can never put an end to hatred” said Helen Golden. “To see at first hand the harrowing evidence of the events that took place in those notorious places has reinforced the importance of that teaching - as relevant to us here today as to Germany in WWII.” Emese Karolyi reflected on the experience: “We started the day by visiting a Jewish cemetery which had been vandalised but restored to honour the many generations of Jewish families buried there. After that we went on to Auschwitz 1, originally a Polish military barracks which was converted by the Nazis into a concentration camp, disguised as a work camp. After a harrowing and thoughtprovoking tour through the corridors lined with poignant portraits featuring victims of Nazi persecution, we were led on to Auschwitz-Birkenau, an extermination centre through the use of gas chambers. It was an emotional day, evoking a keen sense of sadness and a stark reminder that everyone has an element of cruelty in them and it is only those who overpower this inner brutality who can ever truly be good.”
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News and Highlights
Sixth Form Leavers Back Row: Kelvin Kwok, Yerzhan Sadyk, Claudia McCrea, Victoria Wu, Paul Yeung Front Row: Anna Melnychuk, Jessica Guest, Alanah Hunter, Kate Roberts, Eleanor Richards, James Cross Absent: Liberty Anstead
School Children Step into English Speaking Union the Jurassic Period The Jurassic Period came to life for Early Years pupils during their study on dinosaurs. Celia James, a Governor at the school, visited the Nursery and Reception class with her genuine foot-print of an Iguanodon. The children were also given the opportunity to see and touch other interesting fossils which transported them back to millions of years ago.
During the Spring Term two teams represented Friends’ at the English Speaking Union Public Speaking Competition. Considered one of life’s biggest fears, we all know how incredibly difficult it is to stand up and speak in front of an audience. Nerves were kept at bay as both teams showed ability, confidence and a real talent for the art of public speaking. The Year 10 team of Emily Bonner, William Turnbull and Lottie Riley performed with poise and confidence. Emily, as Speaker, argued that “Freedom is Nothing but an Illusion” while William and Lottie, Chair and Questioner respectively, were quick-thinking and efficient in their roles. The Year 11 team of Oliver Northover, Matthew O’Callaghan and James Rand chose “Exploitation of the Antarctic Represents this Generation’s Greed at the Expense of the Next”. The team, convincing and detailed in their argument, put in a superb performance which gained them second place in the competition. This meant the team qualified to compete in the Regional Finals at Colchester Grammar School where they again put in a brilliant performance, learned a great deal and did the school proud.
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News and Highlights
The Bandstand The Junior School entertained the local community as they passed by the bandstand in town with a lively repertoire of songs and musical performances.
Brigitte wins National Doodle Competition Brigitte Parnham, (Year 10) beat off stiff competition from across the country to win the Under 16 category of this year’s National Doodle Day Competition, an event in support of the charity Epilepsy Action. This nationwide competition saw Lord Dodo choose Brigitte’s entry to feature in the 2015/16 edition of the Dodo Acad-Pad and Dodo pad, the much loved desk doodle diary. Congratulations on drawing the best doodle in the UK Brigitte!
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News and Highlights
Sixth Form at Bowles Rocks A weekend at Bowles Rocks has become a rite of passage for our Sixth Form and this year was no different. The purpose of the trip to Kent is so that students in 6i can really get to know each other. It is especially valuable as there are always a number in the Sixth Form who are new to Friends’. Over the two days students developed teamwork and leadership skills by facing a series of challenging problem-solving tasks that draw on both their physical and mental skills. These tasks are carefully designed so that the solution is only possible where a high level of co-operation and teamwork is in evidence. They also work on developing trust within the group. It wasn’t only about teamwork, however, as a number of students were able to face and overcome some personal challenges through a variety of activities. These included rock-climbing, bouldering, high level team work on ropes, the leap of faith, dry slope skiing, a night walk, a variety of problem solving tasks and challenges such as getting your whole team over a high wall or through a series of tunnels. Our vibrant and supportive group had a brilliant time learning much about themselves and each other. Bowles Rocks proved another highly successful weekend for 6i.
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News and Highlights
Life ‘After Hours’ A Taste of Boarding From the first day of school in September, Boarding has been humming with various fun and exciting activities, during both the week and weekend. Weekend excursions have included trips to Legoland, the cinema and various shopping expeditions. Days out provide entertainment for everyone and a chance to unwind and have fun after the week of lessons and homework. Kayaking proved a popular activity in November when boarders learnt not only the skills of kayaking but also had a great time completing team building exercises on the water. During the week there is a range of activities on offer to boarders including swimming, football, outdoor summer games, bingo night along with creative crafts evenings. Film Making has been a particularly popular activity, run by Rob Pepper, our resident Drama
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Assistant. With Rob’s help and guidance our younger boarders have been able to make a mini film, learning the tricks of the trade as they go. Sunday evenings are often the time when boarders do something all together. They recently enjoyed a Quiz Night where nine teams of mixed ages competed in eight rounds of questions. The competition was fierce among the teams but all agreed the pizza and ice cream provided during the quiz helped them on their quest to win. Friends’ offers full boarding, weekly boarding and flexi boarding so get in touch with our Head of Boarding, Matt Kiely if you are interested in any of those options or would like to find out more.
News and Highlights
The Young Enterprise ‘Tenner Challenge’ This year our boarders embarked on the the Young Enterprise ‘Tenner Challenge’, a national competition designed to develop life skills and key employability skills such as communication, resilience, problem solving, creativity and teamwork. This challenge involved boarders from Year 6 to Year 10 and required them to select their own groups and form a company. With a £10 setup fund from The Young Enterprise, each company were given four weeks to make as much money as they could from their ‘startup fund’. All groups had access to a wealth of resources on the ‘Tenner Challenge’ website and were assigned a member of the boarding staff who offered guidance along the way. The competition required that each company run their business as close to the real thing as possible, thinking about logos, advertising and keeping accounts. With activities such as washing cars,
baking cakes and pop up shops there was no doubt that all groups got thoroughly involved in the challenge. Sonia Hood, Assistant Head of Boarding, supervised the project and made sure all groups were on task and were able to stick to their business plan. As in business, some plans were more successful than others but all groups must be commended for getting involved and making a profit.
‘Foxtrot’ Sixth Formers, Kamal, Charlotte, Zak and Liberty attended the Quaker Pilgrimage in the Lake District (the ‘Foxtrot’) along with a group of Sixth Form students and staff from other Quaker schools. They literally followed in the footsteps of George Fox as they retraced his journey in 1652 when he visited a number of churches in the region, challenging the orthodoxy of the day. The group walked Pendle Hill where George Fox was reported to have had a vision, which really brought the history of Quakerism alive for everyone. It was also a great opportunity to make lasting friendships, proving once again an enriching experience for our students.
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News and Highlights
The Holocaust Remembered at Friends’ During the anniversary week of Holocaust Memorial Day, we were privileged to host a performance of the play ‘Etty’ for students from Year 9 to Sixth Form.
Etty is a touring one-woman play based on the diaries and letters of Esther “Etty” Hillesum, a 27 year-old Jewish woman living in occupied Amsterdam in 1941 who began keeping a diary to help her with depression. The diaries have been adapted and are performed by American actress Susan Stein, using only Etty Hillesum’s own words. The incredibly moving play explored the Holocaust and how the rights of Jews were slowly stripped away before being deported to the concentration camps. Following the performance, Susan Stein took the time to discuss the play with students. Many thoughtful and interesting questions were raised and our students showed their maturity and respect during the discussion. We thank Finola O’Sullivan, a Governor, for gifting this poignant play to the school.
Swimming Lessons – Early Years Our youngest learners are now enjoying their weekly swimming lessons more than ever!
Ellie Richards receives Rotary Award The annual local Rotary Awards celebrates young people who exemplify the Rotary motto of ‘Service above Self’. Ellie Richards (6ii) most certainly possesses qualities which fit that criteria. Ellie has been involved in ACTIVE (Addenbrooke’s Childrens’ and Teenage Ideas and Venture Enterprise) a group dedicated to improving paediatric care and the experience of young children and adolescents who have to spend time in hospital. Ellie attended the event in June, held at the Uttlesford District Council Chambers, to receive her award which was made in recognition of her voluntary work that has made a significant contribution to the local community. It doesn’t stop there, however! As Ellie and her work made such an impact she was nominated by the Saffron Walden Rotary Club for a National Rotary Award which will take place in 2016. We are very proud to see Ellie rewarded and recognised for her dedication and the time and effort she has put into this worthwhile project.
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News and Highlights
International Evening 2015 International Evening is always a popular event on the school calendar and so it proved again this year with nearly 100 people in attendance to enjoy the international food on offer. A varied menu was prepared by our wonderful chefs, students and the Food Tech staff, and was supplemented with generous donations from The Jade Garden and the Mogul Restaurant. Thanks to our ever-talented students, there was a wide range of live music from all over the world to accompany the meal. It was a thoroughly enjoyable evening which celebrated all of the cultures which make up our school community.
Coding Club get a Taste for Raspberry Pi Friends’ School Coding Club members include James Sandison, James Klima, Fraser Bunting, Dylan Pinch and Harry Theokli – all of whom are in Year 8. These keen computing programmers entered a competition at the ‘Big Bang’ Fair – and successfully found themselves in the top 50 entrants. As a result, the group were awarded a Raspberry Pi, a small, affordable computer that can be used to learn and develop programming skills through fun, practical projects.
ability to push a button and have a similar friendly good night wish of “the world says good night”. The boys achieved their aim successfully and indeed, on discovering the name of the astronaut, have personalised the greeting further to “Good Morning Tim!” Fantastic work boys!
The project that the boys decided to work on was to develop an interactive device for an astronaut. The device was designed to be either movement or heat sensitive so that it was able to detect when the astronaut woke up; once awake the astronaut would be greeted by the Pi saying “good morning astronaut” and displaying a smiley face on the LED. At the end of the day the astronaut would have the
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News and Highlights
Down in Yon Forest A shady spot on a sunny afternoon, the crackle of frosty twigs in the autumn, a shelter from the winter rain and wind, the Forest School is a firm favourite with pupils and teachers alike. The generous green spaces of the school site allow for this wonderful extension to the classroom, where children can let their imagination roam, where they can study nature and where they can bring their studies to life with practical sessions of investigation and discovery.
and use the wood for making spears, identifying the best trees for the purpose. Seeking inspiration for their own poetry, Year 6 used the recesses of the trees to recreate the perilous journey of Theseus through the Labyrinth and Perseus’ terrifying encounter with the Medusa (with a spot of hot chocolate to really get the creative juices flowing!). Even the seniors are to be seen among the trees sometimes, collecting botanical specimens, surveying and monitoring bird species and observing insect life.
All sessions in the Forest School are carefully structured, allowing children to develop skills and independence whilst engaging in active learning, linked closely to the classroom curriculum.
As an integral part of the Junior School curriculum, the Forest School provides weekly opportunities for children of all ages to develop confidence, independence and practical skills, using tools and working together in an outdoor setting. They can achieve, take risks, discover problems and find the solutions for themselves through negotiation, empathy, logic and strategic thinking – an unbeatable combination to bring back to the classroom!
In their study of prehistoric life, for example, Year 3 considered how people would have survived, using the materials of the forest for shelter and animals for food, clothing and tools. They learned how to coppice trees
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News and Highlights
The German Exchange Celebrates 25 Years Thanks must go to John Searle Barnes and Marianne Cordes, who through a chance meeting in 1989 in the beautiful town of Marburg, helped to establish a relationship between Friends’ School and Lloydgymnasium which still exists to this day. The German teacher at the time, the late Gisela Hume, was interested in establishing an exchange and very soon a successful partnership was born. The first visit to Bremerhaven took place in 1990 and has continued ever since. Over the years the faces have changed and since 2004 Tanja Bartscht and Peter Fasching have been working closely together
on the exchange which has continued to go from strength to strength. 2010 saw Max Ford from Friends’ and Matthias Dopp from Lloydgymnasium join the team. This year the team can look back over 25 years of successful visits, a wonderful friendship and the cultural and linguistic enrichment of all those English and German students who took part over the years. With 40 participants involved in this year’s exchange, one of largest groups yet, it is clear there is still keen interest in the visit in both schools. We look forward to a further 25 years of friendship between both Friends’ School Saffron Walden and Lloydgymnasium Bremerhaven.
The German Exchange – June 2015
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News and Highlights
Winners: Canon Swindelhurst presenting the trophy to Kamal Taghizada on behalf of the Friends’ School team with Quiz master, David Barrs (far right) and recorder, Deryck Johnson (far left).
Success at the UN Quiz
This year it was Friends’ turn to host the annual Strachan Trophy Quiz, run by the local United Nations Organisation. The purpose of this event is to encourage young people to think about the United Nations and its aims and principles, as well as raising awareness of the ways in which the United Nations is currently operating across the world. Quiz master, David Barrs began the evening by speaking about the late James and Doreen Strachan, in whose memory the competition was founded. They were both teachers at the County High School and committed Quakers with a burning desire to promote peace, which they believed was best grounded in the United Nations. Four local schools take part in the quiz every year, Saffron Walden County High School, Helena Romanes, Dame Joyce Frankland Academy and Friends’ School. The quiz, prepared by David Barrs, Head of the Anglo European School in Ingatestone, consisted of 80 questions on geography, current and historic persons and events mainly with a UN connection, although local knowledge was also tested. As always, the quiz was a challenge for all involved with some very difficult rounds, but Kamal, Sophia, Lottie and Miles held their nerve, were confident in their answers and showed they had what it takes to win the highly-prized trophy this year!
Friends Team: Lottie Zlotkowski, Sophia Wieland, Jane Pearce, Kamal Taghizada and Miles Burgess with Jane Peace, coach and staff member in charge.
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Rotary Young Chef Competition Friends’ were very pleased to host the annual Rotary Young Chef Competition which involved local schools, Saffron Walden County High, Forest Hall School, Joyce Frankland Academy and Friends’ School. Two students from each school were required to plan, cost, cook and serve a two-course meal for two in one and a half hours. They also had to stick to a budget! Our two talented chefs, Kate Tillotson and Joseph Man did a brilliant job representing Friends,’ but it was Joseph’s well executed menu of prawn and asparagus risotto with parmesan crisps and chocolate mousse with hazelnut shortbread for dessert which saw him voted the overall winner of the first round. The next round took place in Kings Lynn and again he did a brilliant job representing Saffron Walden. He competed against some very talented chefs, and while he didn’t make it further in the competition, he cooked his heart out to win the award for ‘best dish’ for his chocolate mousse and hazelnut shortbread. A wonderful achievement.
News and Highlights
The Junior School Drop Everything and Read! ‘I’m too busy,’ …… ‘I just don’t have the time,’ …… ‘I only get to do that when I’m on holiday,’ ….. ‘I don’t really like fiction,’ ….. ‘Books? I just use Google’. If that is what you might say if you were asked how much you read, then think again! Reading is back, big-time and the pupils at Friends’ are leading the way. Some may prefer their tablets and Kindles but lots still prefer to curl up with a good book and the selection has never been better, from J. K. Rowling to
Reading Tea Time Reading Tea Time, now a firmly established programme in the Junior School, is proving a most popular activity among pupils, parents and staff. Each event is focused on encouraging children to view themselves as readers within a larger community where ‘everyone reads’. Pupils are actively encouraged to read both on-screen and on paper with their parents. While mostly held in the Library they have also been held in the Forest School, an atmospheric venue for story telling. One highlight from the programme this year was a visit from Joe Harlow, part-time librarian, Old Scholar, and story teller extraordinaire who entertained Year 3 and 4 with his ending to the childrens’ very own fairy tale.
Charles Dickens. The Junior School Library is well used, providing a cosy reading nook or two and Librarian, Jennifer Mizen, is always keen to help you find information or just a really good read on the shelves. All the pupils are encouraged to carry a book about with them to read at spare moments and they enjoy dedicated library time. There has never been a better time just to drop everything and read!
Tony Mitton Brings Poetry Alive in the Junior School Award-winning poet and children’s author, Tony Mitton delighted pupils and raised the poetic temperature on his two visits to the ‘Poetry by Heart’ festival last October. Drawing upon his extensive repertoire, Tony entertained and stretched the imaginations of the youngest in Nursery to the eldest in Year 6. Rhyme and rhythm as well as raps and ballads filled the air as he took the children on a poetry adventure. In preparation for his second visit, pupils spent time learning a poem of their choice and one was chosen from each class to recite a piece in front of him. Tony also presented a selection of his books to three lucky pupils at the school assembly. This was an inspiring celebration of spoken poetry and it was a privilege for the pupils to perform in front of such an accomplished poet.
World Book Day 2015 One and all turned up to the Junior School dressed as their favourite book character in celebration of World Book Day and in support of Book Aid International. The colourful costumes included creatures, brave adventurers and notorious characters of film and TV. The whole school ‘dropped everything and read’ throughout the day and even enjoyed a shortbread letter snack at break-time. A magical day for all!
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All the World’s a Stage
All the World’s a Stage It has been another year full of wonderful productions and musical events throughout the school. From the earliest years to those at the top of the school, all pupils have had a chance to play their part and experience the bright lights and grease paint. Enjoy the following pages, which will give you just a taste of how important the expressive and performing arts are here at Friends’.
The Infant Nativity - Angel Express!
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All the World’s a Stage
Snow White - The Year 3 and 4 Play
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All the World’s a Stage
A Night at the Savoy - The Year 5 and 6 Play
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All the World’s a Stage
The Gymnastics Show
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All the World’s a Stage
The Wind in the Willows
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All the World’s a Stage
Spring Music Festival Senior School musicians enjoyed an extensive range of music events as part of a Spring Music Festival held over four days in the Spring Term. Over 30 pupils from Year 7 to 6ii took part in a song-writing and composition workshop run by a visiting rock band ‘Underline the Sky’ who have previously performed at V Festival. Pupils were taught how to create convincing lyrics, produce effective chord progressions and develop band and microphone skills. Budding music producers from Year 10 to 6i visited Three Circles Audio, a local recording studio, and were given the opportunity to record their own compositions under the guidance of sound engineer, Ade Hare. He gave the group a guided tour of his studio and demonstrated how to record and mix live audio using a variety of instruments and voices. The Annual House Music Competition showcased some outstanding musical talent in the school and saw the return of former Friends’ School pupil and Grammy award winning recording artist/composer Imogen Heap, to adjudicate alongside Nick Ryan, the BAFTA celebrated sound engineer, composer and audio specialist. Musicians from across the three Houses produced some dazzling performances in the categories of Solo Vocal, Solo Instrumental, Ensemble and Composition. The Big Band, String Ensemble, Chamber Choir and Matthew Richardson on soprano saxophone also gave the audience some spirited performances. Congratulations to the winning House Tuke, who took the title with fabulous musicianship shown by Magali Rassmann (piano), Annie Abrahams (voice) and Molly Hood (composition). The Festival concluded at the end of the week with an informal lunchtime concert, again giving a platform for our musicians to sing and play their way to the Easter Break! www.friends.org.uk • 41
All the World’s a Stage
Friends’ Senior School Music Tour to Paris Musicians and singers from the Senior School embarked on a memorable Music Tour to Paris to conclude an exciting year of music making at Friends’. Following auditions, in September 2014, a mixed Choir and Jazz/Big Band, ‘The 60’, formed and began an intensive set of rehearsals in preparation for concerts throughout the year to prepare for the Tour. These included the annual Christmas Words and Music, House Music, Summer Soirée, Spring Music Festival, termly lunchtime concerts, a Bandstand concert in Saffron Walden and the Fête de la Musique. In February both the Jazz/Big Band and Choir took part in a recording session with professional sound engineer Ade Hare from Circles Audio recording studio. They prepared a demo CD for a potential performance at Euro Disney. Both groups produced a fantastic level of performance skills and, following submission, were given a prize slot on the Cinemagique stage, EuroDisney, Paris. Experiencing the hottest recorded temperatures in Paris since 1873 both Choir, Jazz /Big Band, soloists David Vant and Lauren Ecclestone gave some truly
Dance Show - Year 6
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outstanding performances at two concerts at EuroDisney and outside Notre Dame Cathedral. All performers demonstrated their incredible musicality and were a credit to the school throughout the Tour with exemplary behaviour. A commerative CD of selected tracks of the Jazz/ Big Band, Choir and soloists has been produced to celebrate the success of all who took part in all the concerts and Tour throughout 2014/2015.
All the World’s a Stage
The Catrine Basil Music Awards Friends’ School again competed in the annual Catrine Basil Music awards at Sidcot School this year. This competition was created to celebrate the life of a former pupil from Sidcot and showcases musical excellence across the seven Quaker Schools in England. Pupils competed in the categories of Brass, Woodwind, Strings, Piano, Ensembles, Digital and Original
Composition and the standard across all the classes was exceptional. As always, Friends’ musicians performed with distinction and David Vant was awarded 1st prize in the original composition category for a stunning rendition of a song he had written for Music GCSE.
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A Year in Sport
A Year in Sport Junior School The Junior School has been engaged in a wide range of sporting fixtures, events and tournaments this year with some real highlights and wonderful achievements. The year began with the U9 and U11 boys’ football teams reaching the final of the Thorpe House Langley Prep tournament, not to mention the U11 B teams’ thrilling 7-5 win against Bishop’s Stortford College. Rugby has been a new addition to the programme this year with tag fixtures against Fairstead House, Bishop’s Stortford College and Felsted. The girls (and some boys) have had an excellent term of netball, playing against Dame Bradbury’s, Fairstead House and St Mary’s Cambridge winning the majority of their fixtures playing some skillful netball. Cross-country has been a great success with pupils from Years 3 to 6 taking part in several events held on our fantastic site. We had several teams qualify for the USSP finals with Lily Godfrey and Cecily Hannam qualifying to represent Uttlesford in the county finals in March. The school also continued its tradition of performing well at the Gosfield Cross Country, and in the wettest conditions ever experienced, the Year 5/6 boys’ and girls’ cross country teams both came third. The school came second overall with Lily Godfrey gaining an individual second place. Following on from the sporting success of the Junior School, pupils attended a session with two sports therapists from the Sports Injury Clinic. The workshop focused on injury prevention, stretching, the importance of warm ups and cool downs, and injury rehabilitation. The visit gave pupils an insight into the more physiological side of PE and how different muscles and bones help us play sport. A new term brought with it new victories as the U11 A and B football teams both recorded wins over Duncombe School playing with great sportsmanship,
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courage and determination. The tournament season followed shortly after with the U11 boys taking part in two prestigious events. The Perse Prep Annual 7-a-side tournament saw Friends’ play alongside some of the best prep and primary schools in Cambridge, playing some excellent football. The ISFA U11 East Regionals were next where the boys again impressed with some superb performances against schools more than triple our size, playing tight games to Bedford Modern, Milton Keynes Prep and St Hugh’s. The boys were again unlucky not to get out of their group but can be proud of their achievements. During the Spring Term mixed tag rugby became a popular sport among the pupils growing to almost full capacity, including six girls from Years 5 and 6. The USSP Tag Rugby event saw the A team perform to a high standard and were only one win away from qualifying for the regional finals. The U11 boys’ A and B team recorded fantastic wins against Thorpe House Langley Prep with some of the best running rugby they have played during the year. Mixed hockey was also a great success during the Spring Term with the U11 squad coming second in
A Year in Sport
the districts to qualify for the regional finals. The team came fourth overall, a fantastic achievement and just reward for all their hard work on a Friday evening during Hockey Club! The U11 mixed netball team qualified for the Regional finals after winning the area competition, with the B team also winning their tournament. The U9 girls netball team had a fantastic game against Stoke College winning 15-1. A special mention to Rosie Peirson who scored 13 of those goals, but a huge well done to the whole team for their hard work and determination around the court. The Summer Term brought with it some better weather and the chance to participate in more fixtures, tournaments and festivals. Cricket went from strength to strength and it was fantastic to see both boys and girls from Year 1 through to Year 6 involved. In the USSP Kwik Cricket tournament the girls were unfortunate to miss out on qualification but
played some great cricket, the highlight being the whole team’s excellent bowling efforts and a stand out batting performance from Clodagh Ryan. The boys managed to qualify for the Regional finals and were unlucky not to win outright, losing only to the eventual winners. The U11 boys’ cricket teams had a tough fixture list including Howe Green House, Bancrofts Prep, St Johns College and Bishop’s Stortford College. These teams proved a stern test for the boys but they rose to the challenge for each game and showed the strength of cricket here at Friends’ Junior School. A particular highlight being Alex Peirson hitting his first 50 v Dame Bradburys* and being selected for the Essex U10 squad (since then scoring a 50 v Hampshire, no easy feat!). The U9s have also continued to show improvements throughout the term and a number of players have shown themselves to be promising cricketers in the future. They were involved in some tough fixtures but always came out smiling, having learnt much from the experience.
Congratulations A special congratulations to Lily Godfrey and Alex Peirson on their sporting success. This year was the first time we entered the USSP talent trials and Lily was selected to attend the Talent Camp in May to receive expert and professional coaching at Lee Valley Athletic Centre over three days. Congratulations also to Alex Peirson who qualified for the Essex U10 Cricket Squad, a great achievement!
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A Year in Sport
Senior School Autumn Term Rugby The U13 rugby team completed their season with a victorious 40-31 win over Stoke College. The team improved dramatically during the term thanks to the coaching of Matt Kiely. Stand out players were James Goodwin, Tade Adeniji, Barnaby Knight and Will Barnett. The U15 rugby team showed commitment and flare from the start of the season. Thomas Mutali, Zac Omeh and Rufus Davies were the main try scorers but were well supported by Fergus Davies, Nathan Gibbs and James Morris. Thanks to Mark Kimberley and Chris Clayton-Smith for their coaching expertise. Cross Country This year, for the first time, we held our own Cross Country in which all year groups, and some staff, participated. It was a great success and proved a useful preparation event for those competing at the North West Essex Cross Country Championships. At the Championships, the junior girls’ team ran well to finish
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fourth overall while Kate Tillotson finished eighth and George Clarke sixth in their intermediate races. Byron Dean had a great race to finish fourth in the senior boys and Hannah Irwin and Annie Abrahams ran superbly to come first and second respectively in the senior girls race. Congratulations to Kate, George, Byron, Hannah and Annie on their selection for the North West Essex team which saw them compete in the Essex Championships in January. They ran well and gave it everything they had. Well done to Hannah who finished seventeenth and Annie just behind in nineteenth place. Commiserations to Kate who could not continue one mile into the race due to an injured ankle. Hockey Congratulations to the U13 girls’ hockey team who played in the Bishop’s Stortford and District Plate Competition this term. Proving themselves a strong squad and a resilient and hard working team, they drew with Birchwood, played fantastically well against HRS to win 6-0 and then scored 11-0 against Edwinstree to win the competition on goal difference.
A Year in Sport
Spring Term The U13 football team played with improved confidence as the season progressed, with Jack Taylor securing some excellent goals and Henry RobertsLevell, Josh Perry and Joe Davies giving good support in midfield. The U15 team had wins over Forest Hall and St Mary’s with outstanding defence from Thomas Mutali and Henry King.
in Ipswich, one of the best gymnastic venues in the country with apparatus that includes asymmetrical bars, parallel bars, high and low beams, rings, a tumble track and a tumble foam pit. The group, who performed in the Gymnastics Show at the end of March, also had the opportunity to use a fast track trampoline, which provided some fun-filled tumbling practice for the group. All the pupils had a brilliant time, learnt new skills and came away inspired for the Gymnastics Show.
Netball
Summer Term
Netball went from strength to strength this year with weekly fixtures against a variety of schools. The Year 7 team made excellent progress with Megan Seward and Kara Cowell playing brilliantly throughout all their matches. The Year 8 team also had a great season and remained unbeaten all term. Year 9 worked well as a team with Keira Nabena showing versatility and skill. The Senior Team have won the majority of their netball fixtures and played well against strong competition in the districts.
Rounders
Football
It was a good year for our rounders teams with Year 7 making a strong start and Year 8 showing skill and commitment throughout the season and winning all their matches. Sophie Brooke, Florence Deller, Flora Turnbull and Flora Heaney put in some notable performances. The Year 8 team went on to perform brilliantly at the District tournament, making the final and only just missing out on becoming champions at the very last moment in the game! Year 9 have improved in both their batting and fielding, while Year 10 achieved a fantastic season of all wins with excellent play from Lottie Riley, Clem Addison-Atkinson and Emily Bonner. Cricket The U13 team looked strong from the start of the season recording wins over Stoke College, Hockerill, Forest Hall and Birchwood. The team was ably captained by Josh Perry, who led from the front scoring runs in all matches. Joe Davies and Will Barnett provided good support with bat and ball but it was the overall team effort, which produced such excellent results.
Gymnastics Early in the Spring Term a group of gifted and talented gymnasts travelled to Pipers Vale Gymnastics Club
The U15 cricket team had good wins over Hockerill and Stoke College this with Barnaby Deller and Josh Batcheler showing good leadership on the pitch. Frank Dudley and Callum Morgan-McDermott put in good performances with the ball.
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A Year in Sport
Riding
Essex Athletics
Elliott Dowler, Lani Hunter and Nathan Gibbs competed at the prestigious Royal Windsor International Horse Show, held in the Windsor Great Park. With the Queen in attendance all three riders rode the technical track well and thoroughly enjoyed the experience of competing in such a fantastic atmosphere.
A number of very talented athletes from Friends’ attended the North West Essex Athletics trials in early May in order to gain selection for the Essex Schools Championships. Well done to Sissie Charlton-Hunt (Year 7) and Skye Wicks (Year 8) on being selected for the 100m, Kierah Nabena (Year 9) and Sam Fuller (Year 9) who were both selected for the 200m and Chinasa Okoroma (Year 10) who gained selection to compete in the shot put. Skye went on to put in a very impressive performance at the Essex Championships in June, coming second in her heat and fifth in the final.
The team also competed at the Wellington Schools Competition held at Keysoe during half term. Isolde Northover was an individual in two classes and put in a very impressive performance. Titania Northover, Nathan and Lani took part in the team competition and put in a solid performance. Only Lani and Nathan competed in the bigger class and both got good clear rounds with Nathan being quick enough to gain fifth place out of 65 starters. Well done to the riding team, another great effort! Thanks to Sandie Gibbs for all her support and hard work as team manager.
Basketball Year 7 and 8 The U13 basketball team started the season well with two wins against Forest Hall and Birchwood. They continued to be a force in the league with their only opposition coming from Hockerill in a very close 22-26
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loss. It was Friends’ and Hockerill who faced each other again for a very tough District final and on the day Hockerill proved too strong. The team, however, emerged a more skillful and much improved side at the end of the season. We look forward to their progress! The team: Daniel Batcheler, Will Barnett, Michael O’Callaghan, Tade Odeniji, James Goodwin, Sam Skinner, Freddie Pentney, Henry Roberts Levell
A Year in Sport
Year 9 and 10 The team had an interesting start to their year playing the previous term’s final which had been postponed from last season. It was worth the wait as they convincingly beat SWCHS 38-10 to be league champions.
season and for the second year running were crowned district champions. Congratulations! The team: Zak Charlton, Jimmy Roberts, Yerzhan Sadyk, Francois Earp, Graydon Thorpe , Felix Hannam, Laurence Ward
As the new season progressed James Morris and Fergus Davies put in some very strong performances ably supported by Josh Batcheler, Callum MorganMcDermott and Rufus Davies. Remaining unbeaten throughout the season, the team went into the District final as the favourite against Hockerill. They did not disappoint. It was a physical, fast paced and exciting game which was hugely entertaining for all the supporters who came to cheer on the boys. It was also a great result. Congratulations to the team who all put in a great performance to win by 20 points and become District Champions! The team: Josh Batcheler, James Morris, Matthew Morris, Fergus Davies, Rufus Davies, Callum Morgan-McDermott, Henry King, Barnaby Deller, Harry Philbrook, Nathan Gibbs
County Reps Congratulations to Daniel Batcheler, James Morris, Josh Batcheler, Callum Morgan-McDermott, Zak Charlton and Jimmy Roberts who represented Cambridgeshire at the East of England basketball tournament at the University of East Anglia. Daniel was captain of the U13 team, playing a year above his age group. James, Josh and Callum represented the U15 team and Zak and Jimmy played in the U17 team. Zak also qualified for the East of England training squad.
Seniors The Senior Team had a brilliant start to their season with wins against Long Road, Hills Road and only narrowly losing to the Perse. They were all tight, physical and exciting games which saw the team develop match by match. In the league they came away with wins against Hockerill and Leventhorpe, the latter proving an intense and nail-biting match with a final score of 49-47. Zac Charlton and Jimmy Roberts have both led the team well with excellent support from Felix Hannam and Graydon Thorpe. The team remained unbeaten all
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A Year in Sport
Sports Day Early Years
Juniors
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A Year in Sport
Seniors Skye Wicks broke the all time Year 8 100m record at Friends’, running a lightning quick time of 13.03 seconds. The winning House on the day was Tuke with 1277 points.
House Top Team Competition Congratulations Tuke - the overall Top Team House who finished first with 3765 points
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A Year in Sport
Netball and Hockey Tour to Valkenburg, Holland
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A Year in Sport
Football Tour to Valkenburg, Holland
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Art
A Level Fine Art Exhibition
Anna Melnychuk
Alex Turnbull
Lucy Nathan
Anna Berdyguzhina
Anna Berdyguzhina
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Victoria Wu
Zac Charlton
Art
Mako Ueda
Douglas Whall
Paul Yeung
Jess Guest
Victoria Wu
Douglas Whall
Douglas Whall
Aoife Hipkin
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Art
GCSE Exhibiton
Olivia Richardson
Eamon Chen
Liberty Mussard
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Lauren Ecclestone
Martha Emerson
Lily White
Chair – Olivia Richardson, Tictac Face – Edward Candler
Charlotte Cross
Art
Eamon Chen
Rebecca Ford
Heidi Quill
Eamon Chen
Heidi Quill
Augusta Annis
Sally Hao
Charlotte Cross
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English – Students Work
English – Students Work Why We Have Eclipses Darkness. It covered the world like a blanket of obsidian; no light ever touched the surface of the earth. For you this was way back, before the first humans and this child, this is the story of the first eclipse. One hundred years after the earth was created the ones you know as the sun and moon were made and as time passed the moon and the sun fell deeply in love. They went hand in hand everywhere together like Siamese twins, joined at the hip. However the earth grew jealous of the moon and started to plot against him… The sun and moon skipped around the earth gaily, hand in hand, which made the earth’s anger bubble. And, for you see child, time had gone on, the first humans were starting to emerge and the lack of light infuriated them greatly. But sadly nothing was done and those dark days droned on. Now child, the time had come, the humans had to suffer savage, severe, dark days and it sickened them inside. They went to the face of the earth (the deepest, dankest, darkest cave) and pleaded for there to be
light. Driven jealously and the pleas of the humans mercilessly tore the sun and moon away from each other and laid down a curse. The love between the moon and the sun Must End Each day alone you shall spend your time giving light until the hour Of twelve Then you shall switch shifts and you shall never re-delve And now as it is today the sun and the moon take shifts during the day. However, every year or so, while the earth rests for half a second the earth and sun come together for one kiss, then separate and go back to their never ending cycle. So that my son is why we have eclipses. Michael O’Callaghan (Year 7)
Loneliness
What Reading Means to Me
Loneliness is a shadow, Haunting and hiding In the never-ending darkness of love.
Most days, I trudge into school with a heavy bag and a shirt that’s not tucked in. I desperately resent the fact that I’m walking into a whole day’s worth of lessons, and they’re just going to trudge on slowly and monotonously, hour after hour, minute after minute. Tomorrow, tomorrow and tomorrow creeps in this petty pace…Wait, that’s Shakespeare! How is it that my mind always leads me back onto the subject of books?
Loneliness is a flower, In spring it shares its beauty, Other times, it destroys hope… Loneliness is ice, Freezing all your dignity, Never melting away. Loneliness is a book, You can never be sure What’s on the next page. Loneliness is a key, Locking all happiness, Hiding it forever. A poem by Megan Saward (Year 7)
For me reading is sharing the world you’ve discovered with other people. What good are the joys you’ve found if no one else can experience it too? I delight in the thrill I get when I talk about my favourite character, and it’s as if it materialised around us until it’s so real, you could just touch it. It’s not ‘just fiction’. So many people pile their shelves up with thick history books, and fashion magazines, without ever being engrossed in a good book. The thing is ‘just fiction’ can throw you head-over-heels into a different world, with different people, different dreams and different situations. You can travel to the end of the universe and save the world, all while you’re still wearing your pyjamas and having a cup of hot chocolate. ‘Just fiction’ has let me meet so many new and inspiring people, with dreams and thoughts that I’d never have imagined possible to see the world from. And you know what, ‘just fiction’ isn’t just fiction. It can provide us with a new respect for our surroundings, and feeds us with priceless life lessons. Reading makes me happy. And if you want to call it ‘just fiction’, by all means be my guest. But I don’t think it could change someone’s life if it was ‘just fiction’. Hannah Jorgensen (Year 9)
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English – Students Work
50 Word Mini Sagas By Year 8
Snow Lucy was seven years old. She had never experienced snow before. One morning she pulled her blinds open and saw layers of white powder. She wondered what it was. It must be snow she thought! She ran downstairs, stuffed a slice of toast down her throat and ran outside. Sophie Brooke
Willow He left her body there among the willow roots. The girl vandalised, twisted and gnarled, just as the man’s tormented mind. Her life pure as a flower. As the wind blew that summer, for the first time in twenty years, the willow came into bloom. Jo Dadson
What Lies Beneath Popular, beautiful, cruel. She knew everyone’s secrets. She kept many from her friends, but never let them keep any from her, She spun a web of lies, so tangled. Although she seemed to have a perfect life, she was tormented by an anonymous text messenger shortly before her disappearance. Max Powell
Abandoned Abandoned in an unfamiliar land by friends at arms. The soldier trudged away from the shipwreck where only he had survived. But he had to complete his task, 99 men out of 100 had died to get here to retrieve their eagle standard. But he was Roman and he would never quit. Jonny Cheney
A Child My birth, with no father to hold me, don’t know who he is, Mummy never said. Then started school. First love, Manchester United, second love, Mary, then came Jess followed by Sindy. Finished school at 18 with six GCSEs. Found my Daddy but lost Mummy, still she never said. Nathan Brass
The Ballad of Scafell Pike The day we marched up Scafell Pike The clouds were grey and grim. With only Jasper at my side, The light was dark and grim. We trampled all day through wind and rain, Jasper stayed my loyal friend. He trotted along beside my feet, Until we came to a bend. That was when I turned around, And my dog was there no more. Had he got lost in the storm? There was no print of his paw. I searched and searched for days on end, But he was nowhere to be found. I imagined him sitting in the storm, My poor little hound. Worried sick, I asked for help, From all my Facebook friends. All cried aloud at Jasper’s plight, And onto others they did send. Soon everyone had heard the news, People far and wide. They searched for Jasper on the Fell, Everything was tried. A sighting was reported on The top of Scafell Pike, A man called Geoff decided that, He would go and take a hike. Although it was the midnight hour, When Geoff began his climb. He trudged through darkness and the night, And got there just in time. The dog was cold and scared to move, But Geoff did hold him tight. He didn’t know if Jasper would Live throughout the night. Geoff called the mountain rescue, They came to help him down. They carried him down the mountain side. Thanks goodness Jasper was found. I’m glad to say this dramatic tale Did have a happy end. Just goes to show, whatever they say, Rely on your Facebook friends!
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Duke of Edinburgh
Duke of Edinburgh
Bronze Award – Autumn Term Congratulations to those 25 students who completed their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award assessed expedition in Rendlesham Forest - walking for six hours each day, camping overnight and successfully cooking a meal on a trangia!
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Goodbye
Goodbye We are glad to take an opportunity to share our thanks to some long-established staff.
Jackie Branch
Vicky Charlesworth
Jackie Branch finally retires after a long and dedicated career; she has been a stalwart of the Junior School and a wonderful teacher who has guided many generations of pupils successfully through to the next phase of their education. We shall miss her humour, her calm and her sound common sense and we wish her all the best for a well-deserved retirement.
Vicky Charlesworth, who has taught Maths in the Senior School for the last four years moves on to take up a post in a larger department at King’s Ely. Vicky completed her NQT year with us and has become an established and popular member of staff, teaching across the age range 11 to 18. She has also established a lovely Chamber Choir, comprising both staff and students, which has performed on several public occasions. We will miss a great colleague and wish Vicky well in her future career.
Anne Fear
Jackie with Kate Richardson and Sally Meyrick
Catherine Whyte We say goodbye to Catherine Whyte who has taught Food Technology across the whole school for some twelve years. She has been an inspiration to so many students; her energy, efficiency and enthusiasm are infectious and she has gone to great lengths to support her students and the school, bringing us success and honour. Catherine has been an excellent colleague and we will all remember her fondly, as she moves up north to join her husband in her native Northumberland.
After eighteen years, Anne Fear, our Receptionist, has decided to retire. Anne is probably the first friendly face that many of us remember when we first came to the school. She has turned her hand to many tasks over the years and the boarders particularly will remember her unfailing kindness and patience as she helped them with their many queries and travel arrangements. Anne’s quiet dedication and love for the school was apparent in all she did and we hope that she will keep in touch. We wish her a peaceful and happy retirement.
Ruth Darvill Finally, the biggest change of all comes at the top of the Junior School: Ruth Darvill, Head since September 2013, moves on to a new post in Surrey at Hazelwood School in September. We are sorry to see Ruth leave; she has moved the Junior School forward in so many ways and we are impressed at the excellent standards she has set. The Junior School is a vibrant place where children develop real personality and one lovely memory Ruth will take with her was the performance of ‘So Long, Farewell’ sung in the garden by the children at her farewell tea party. We wish Ruth well for her future career.
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Hello
Hello Sally Meyrick
Antonia Everett
Sally Meyrick, not a new face to the school as such but will be new to her role as Head of the Junior School in September. Having worked on the Management team in her position as Deputy Head, Sally brings a wealth of experience to the job and a high level of dedication to the children in the Junior School. Sally is committed to high academic standards and to maintaining the breadth of curriculum of which we are justly proud at Friends’, particularly in these times when the prevailing educational policy seems to be one of narrowing down. Sally will take the Junior School forward and will continue to give outstanding service to the school in her new role; her knowledge of, and dedication to, the school will be invaluable to us in the coming years.
Antonia Everett joins the Maths Department from the Joyce Frankland Academy. Antonia has been teaching part-time for many years and has managed to combine this with running her own business. She is very well qualified and able to teach the full age range in Maths, as well as helping out with some A Level Economics teaching, which will be a great asset to us.
Sarah Kiely Sarah Kiely joins the Junior School as a class teacher. Sarah qualified as a teacher in her native South Africa and then moved to the UK, where she worked in a boarding school, alongside her husband, Matt. Her most recent post was as a Year 4 teacher at FKS School, Felsted, where she was very highly regarded. We are delighted to welcome Sarah to the Friends’ team and wish her well.
Sophie Ward Sophie Ward joins the Senior School staff as a teacher of Food Technology. Sophie is a highly experienced teacher, who comes to us from Forest Hall Academy. She is excited about joining a well established and resourced Technology Department, where she will get the chance to teach across the full 11 to 18 age-range. She will be an excellent addition to our team.
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Bernadette Gilbert Bernadette Gilbert joins the Maths Department from the Perse School, Cambridge. Bernadette is well qualified in Maths and had a background in business and finance before she decided to move into teaching. She looks forward to joining a fully co-educational school, where she will teach across the age and ability range. We welcome Bernadette to the staff.
Claire Platais Claire Platais takes up the leadership of the Study Centre in September. Claire is a fully qualified Special Needs Coordinator and has considerable experience of Senior Management; she has been Deputy Head at her previous school, Braeside School for Girls. Claire is a fully qualified teacher and her preferred subject is RS. The Study Centre staff are looking forward to working with the new head of the team and Claire’s experience will be of great value to us.
PTA
It Has Been Another Fabulous Year of PTA Events… The Bonfire Bash
The Christmas Fayre in the Junior School
The Summer Fete
Cake Sales and Coffee Mornings
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Old Scholars
Old Scholars
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Old Scholars
FSSW Old Scholars’ Association Welcome
Welcome to our Old Scholars! This is the first edition of the combined school and Old Scholars’ magazine so I hope that you enjoy reading the OS articles as well as catching up with all that has been happening at Friends’ in the last year, in both the Junior and Senior Schools. I started working as the OSA Membership Secretary in October 2013. I have really enjoyed making contact and getting to put some faces to names! My two children were both at Friends’ Junior School, starting in the Nursery at age three with my youngest having just finished Year 6 this year. I am thrilled to continue to be part of the school which has nurtured my children for so long. The part I love most about my job is meeting Old Scholars and hearing about their time at school. I recently had the privilege of being invited to a reunion lunch for those who were at the school in the 1940s and 1950s – a group who meet up once a year, alternately north of the Thames at school or south in a pub in Surrey. There were 18 of us and I was amazed how everyone had managed to keep in touch with each other after so many years. When I was growing up I loved all the Enid Blyton books about boarding schools and longed to go to one myself. I never had the opportunity so I love to hear all your stories about school days at Friends’, many of which you will find in the articles in the next few pages.
These stories also make me realise not only how much life at Friends’ School has changed, but also how lucky students are today with the wonderful opportunities the school provides and how privileged we all are to be part of the history of the School on the Hill. Earlier this year we launched the new OS website (www.oldscholars.com) which is now more interactive. Every Old Scholar is able to log on and access their profile, which can then be changed as required. When we last sent out a mass email to everyone on the database a significant amount were returned with incorrect addresses, so if you do not have your login details please email oldscholars@friends.org.uk so that we can make sure we have your correct contact details. As the school and modern life continue to move forward, Friends’ Old Scholars will always be an invaluable part of our school community. I would like to thank everyone who has sent me articles and photos for both this section of the magazine and the website. Please keep them coming for future issues! We would also love to hear all your news so that we can share it on the website so please let us know of any graduations, marriages, births and big wedding anniversaries and we will continue to keep the Old Scholars’ Association a thriving community. Stefanie Godfrey
President’s Address May 2015 I was here for only the first three years of my secondary schooling, – from 1965 to 1968, but they were formative years that marked my life deeply. I have worked here now for nearly 17 years and my son went right through the Senior School. Thinking back, I came up with my first experience of school: standing by my bed waiting for clothes check – two pleated green skirts, two green Braemar pullovers, three green Viyella blouses, two Sunday dresses, those dark brown tights some of us used to
wear… The bedstead was iron, rows of black iron bedsteads, and all the beds had those regulation red blankets. My mother introduced me to the girl standing by the next bed. “Hello, this is Biddy. What’s your name?” P and I remained best friends for the rest of that
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Old Scholars year and well into the next. She was a sweet, goodnatured girl, who just sometimes cried a lot at night. Like many children there her home background was not straightforward. In her case, she came from a foster-home. I only found this out when she came to stay with me in the holidays and someone from Social Services came to check out my home and family before her stay. She never talked about it, but rumour had it that her parents had died in an accident; I know she had a twin brother at a different school. Young children don’t share confidences like older teenagers do. They talk about their everyday lives and share what’s happening now. What happens in school is intense and all-absorbing for most of the time. But the teaching – and the teachers – are only a small part of it. We think we have a huge influence on our students but as a teacher I’m often painfully aware of how insignificant I am compared to their peers. If I don’t make my lessons interesting, my students won’t even listen, let alone learn. Luckily, as they get older and begin to specialise in subjects they enjoy, lessons automatically become more relevant and significant and they tune in, turn on and get good results. But at least as important as what they learn in lessons is the hidden curriculum – everything else they learn in school. It’s not only exam results that they take away from school, it’s everything else that has contributed to their school experience. The Friends’ School experience is a large part of what has made us Old Scholars the people we are. A quick scan of my memories includes British Bulldog on roller skates, the ice slides made on the lower boys’ asphalt, climbing down the stairs on the outside of the banisters – dangerous things - and a lot of things that went on under the radar of any adults: getting up early in the morning to go down to the fairground in town before anyone was up; going up into the attics through a trapdoor outside the girls’ bedrooms; running away to Norfolk with my best friend, turning up at the home of her boyfriend’s parents’, people she had never met and I vaguely knew because he was my brother’s best friend at school (obviously at that point it did come to the attention of the school authorities). Some things have changed. I don’t think students are restricted to two Sunday dresses any more, and they do wear jeans, but I don’t mind betting that much of the hidden curriculum still goes on under the adult radar. When my son was in the Sixth Form he had to give a talk on the Sixth Form Open Evening to potential students and their parents about his experience of the Sixth Form at Friends’. He said that if he had gone to a school with a large Sixth form he would have made friends with the students who were most like him. Here, he was friends with everyone, and, paradoxically, it exposed him to a much wider range of personalities
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and views, helping him towards a much greater tolerance and understanding of others. I thought it was a good point. He’s still in touch with those people; what they have in common, despite very different lives and being very different people, is their shared school experience. My friend P, sadly, is no longer with us, but my year group, the 1972ers, still get together every few years. We started it in our 50th birthday year and when we got together then, 30 to 40 of us, we were all struck by how easy it was to be together. There was a complete lack of pretension, no one felt they had to put up a front, and we learned more about each other and how it was for us back then. We heard how unhappy it had been for some people, being sent off to boarding school. People get sent away from home for all sorts of reasons. We hadn’t all chosen to go, as I had, following in the footsteps of my brother. But what brought us together, and continues to bring us together, was each other. Friends’ School continues to turn out thoughtful, well-rounded students who are good communicators, tolerant and caring individuals, brushed with Quaker values and full of the confidence that being part of a small school makes possible. All our students get the chance to participate in sports teams, choir, drama productions and debating teams, not only a select few. Whether it’s our size or our Quaker ethos, or the lingering echoes of past generations embedded in these historic buildings, the hidden curriculum is something that holds Old Scholars together. As a teacher, I commend it to you. I hope you will come back in the future, and encourage your own children and grandchildren to take an active interest in the Old Scholars and in the school and spread the word to others – family, friends - about the unique and special place where you did most of your growing up. Biddy Vousden President of the Old Scholars’ Association 2014-15
Old Scholars
News Old Scholars at The V&A Museum Two former Friends’ School students, Josh Field and Roland Fischer-Vousden (Year Group 2010), were involved in an exciting Friday Lates event at the V&A in London at the end of September 2014. Roly, a former member of our Quartet, and Josh are both founder members of DIG, an art collective based in a warehouse in south London. The event centred around young ‘underground’ spaces and collectives, and the art which is being created there. It was cocurated by the V&A and Art Licks. From Friday 3rd until Sunday 5th October, DIG was involved in the Art Licks’ festival, taking place in London across different venues and including a wide variety of different collectives and organisations. Work was presented inside, and in response to, artist Morris Wild’s amphitheatre at DIG in Deptford in an event called ‘Rounds’.
Imogen Candler’s Work Exhibited Congratulations to Imogen Candler (Year Group 2014) whose sculpture of the Bagot Goat which was one of her A level pieces, was selected for two exhibitions in London.
Biddy Vousden’s New Book A new book for teenagers, by Old Scholar and exPresident Biddy Vousden, explores the religious and political upheaval of the 17th century and the nature of friendship between two teenage girls separated in time. Biddy’s first book, ‘The Turning Circle’, is written for teenagers and draws on her own experiences of the difficult adjustments involved in changing schools and friendships. The landscape and wildlife of rural Lincolnshire, where she grew up, provide the backdrop to a story about two young girls living in the same house but separated by three centuries, drawn together by the similarities in their lives.
Imogen’s work was chosen from 370 art works from schools across England for the Royal Society of British Artists exhibition at the Mall Galleries, which ran from 11th to 21st March 2015.
Biddy Vousden’s links with Saffron Walden go back a long time. At the age of 11 her Quaker parents sent her to board at Friends’ School. Twenty-two years ago she returned to the town with her family and now teaches Philosophy of Religion and Ethics in the Senior School.
Her work was also on display at the Rising Stars Exhibition at Lloyds Registry during February and March this year.
‘The Turning Circle’ is published in paperback and is available for £6.99 from Harts Bookshop on Shire Hill, Saffron Walden or online from Amazon.
Alice Irwin Exhibits at Bankside Gallery Congratulations to Old Scholar Alice Irwin (Year Group 2012) whose work was selected by the Royal Society of Painter Printmakers for their national competition. Alice won a substantial prize of £1000 and her work was exhibited at the Bankside Gallery in London (next door to the Tate Modern) from 16th to 28th September 2014.
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Old Scholars
Lakeland 50 & 100 mile Montane Challenge When Miss Marriage used to make us do cross country runs in snowy or very wet weather rather than risk damaging the hockey pitches, I did wonder if this different discipline would ever come in use in the future. Over the past few years as I have taken on different sporting challenges I can say, “yes it has”! On Saturday 25th July I lined up with over 600 runners to take on the Lakeland 50 mile challenge which has to be completed within 24 hours. The really tough experienced guys had started the previous evening for the 100 miles as they have a longer cut off time but as this was our first attempt at this event, my running team mate Dave and I had to start with the 50. After a strict race briefing, weigh in and thorough compulsory kit check, it became obvious this was not going to be any less demanding than other races we had competed in. In fact it is known to be the hardest 50 in the UK and also ranks amongst the most difficult races in Europe. A good one to start Ultra Endurance Racing! The race started in Dalemain and headed through the beautiful Lake District. In total we ascended 2,965m and descended 3,069m taking in some spectacular views as we climbed and before reaching the finish in Coniston16 hours later. The idea of these ultra races is that you have to carry all your kit, food and water. The only top ups come at check points where you also “dib in” with your timing chip. One rule was that it was compulsory to carry emergency rations and clothes and this was checked at registration.
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These included base layer clothes and two Mars Bars, which were again checked at the end. If they had been used we had failed....... they were for emergency use only and that means things are so bad you have to pull out and may take some time in being rescued! Just in case we were in any way tempted after hours of running and scrambling to nibble at the bars I wrapped mine in layer upon layer of Sellotape and stuck them in my dry sack at the very bottom of my rucksack. It was almost like squirrelling food away in a tuck box many years ago! The weather during the day had been incredibly kind with clear skies although strong winds did mean even harder climbs at times. After eleven hours it was head torches on and continuing through the night and pouring rain.
People sometimes ask me why I try these things and do I enjoy them? My answer is simple really. You meet the most amazing people in these events who always have so many tales to share, but perhaps it is also simply to test oneself and help others in the process. Both Dave and I were raising money for charity, Dave was supporting ‘Make a Wish’, a charity that supports seriously ill children and I was raising money, as I always do now, for MSUK since my sister Juliet (Parry) was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis five years ago. Crossing that line at the end has no real word to explain it but it is a good feeling...........and then the mind begins to say “I wonder if I am now good enough to qualify for the 100 mile version?” Clare Thompson (née Parry – Year Group 1981)
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Memories Old Scholars in the First World War My father Anthony Skelton was at Walden during the First World War. He was the youngest brother of Henry and Benjamin Skelton who had also been pupils at the school. Together with his elder brother Richard, he was called to the Headmaster’s Office twice within a few days in the Autumn term of 1918 to be told that first Henry had been killed in action and then that Benjamin had died of wounds. In June this year my husband and I went to Arras on a tour of the Somme battlefields. This
enabled us to go to Joncourt East cemetery where Henry is buried. It is a small cemetery of 71 graves set in cornfields down a farm track; so quiet and peaceful that it was difficult to imagine the noise and destruction of war. At the end of the tour we went on to Rouen where we visited St Sever Cemetery where Benjamin is buried. In contrast, this is a vast cemetery containing 11,437 British and Commonwealth graves from the First World War. We were fortunate in that the British
and Commonwealth War Graves Commission provided us with a map pinpointing Benjamin’s grave for us. Both Harry and Benjamin are commemorated on the war memorial in Safforn Walden. They are also on the memorial at Woodford Wells but not on that at Buckhurst Hill where they actually lived. They are, however, in the book ‘The Path of Duty’ by Bill Oliver, produced by the local British Legion which records the service and sacrifice of Buckhurst Hill men during the Great War. I am pleased to say that Buckhurst Hill British Legion are arranging for a plaque to be added to the War Memorial which will include the names of Harry and Benny, along with four others omitted from the main memorial. This will be dedicated at the Remembrance Service this year. The photos are ones that we took on our visit to France. By Elizabeth Gaines (née Skelton - Old Scholar 1949-1954)
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Recollections Today is my 78th birthday and I am reminded that my school number was 78. Where have all the years gone and what do I remember of my years at school 1946-1953? Years that influenced my life which I am so grateful to have experienced.
Pat (left) with Eleanor Soar, née Marriage, (year group 1952) looking at old school photos in the school Library
Having recently visited the school, much has changed. I was reminded of the frugal times following the war and the austerity we all experienced in different ways but nevertheless our time at school was very happy and laid the foundation for the future: dealing with life’s ups and downs and making lasting friendships which we still enjoy to-day. School numbers: everything had to be named with either Cash’s name tapes or your school number from shoe brushes to towels, sportswear etc and sent in a trunk by P.L.A (Passengers Luggage in Advance). We then caught the ‘Squash’, the train from Liverpool Street, changing at Audley End, a station in the middle of a field, and arrived at Saffron Walden for our school life to begin where we remained until the end of each term. Meal times were more formal then. After various bells we heard the gong; the Headmaster sat at top table; we all stood in silence and another bell indicated the start and the end of the meal. Meals were adequate but we were always hungry and looked forward to the baskets of bread at recess. We kept jam in our tuck boxes in the playroom, which made the dry bread more palatable while it lasted. We also had sugar tins (mine marked 78!) - our sugar ration for the term to be taken into meals, for tea, jam and marmalade were only provided twice a week but on Sundays we had a special treat of a currant bun. We girls all thought that the boys were treated better.
Pat pictured with Old Scholars from the 1940s and 1950s at their annual reunion lunch at Friends’ July 2014
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On Sunday mornings we all had ‘letter writing’ before Meeting but in the afternoon the girls had to have a rest on their beds while the younger boys went on ‘Pig Drive’ - an hour’s walk with one of the masters. While the older boys walked independently, other “Girls Only” sessions included mending after school, darning socks etc and also washing up after tea on Sundays (no dishwashers then!) Leisure time activities included ‘keep ups’ against Boys B wall, French cricket, football, walking up and down the Avenue with your ‘couple’ after tea and before prep. Other groups enjoyed choir, drama, orchestra, weather reading and Natch. (Natural History). There was no T.V. except for a VERY special treat when we watched the Coronation in the school Hall in 1953. Every Saturday evening some form of entertainment was arranged such as lectures with lantern slides, sometimes a film and once a term a school dance in the gym. We all looked forward to Old Scholars’ weekends, which were very popular. Younger Old Scholars camped on the school field and matches were arranged against the school teams. At Whitsun the Old Scholars put on an entertainment in the Hall which was followed by the burning of an effigy of the outgoing President on a huge bonfire and we all sang the old school songs like ‘40 Years On’ and ‘Riding Down from Bangor’. A good time was had by all and if you were lucky, one of the Old Scholars bought you an ice cream, a rare treat as our 6d a week pocket money didn’t allow for such luxuries. Nicknames were used a lot and we almost had a different language for school food. There was Tack, Chaff, Frogspawn, Sinker, Dishwater, Accident in the Alps etc. I wonder whether any are still used? Nicknames were also used for our fellow pupils and we still use them today. Also for the staff, there were A.B. Fido (Miss Yapp) Pumps, Fishy, Aggy, B.B.J. Cyril, Cotty to name but a few.
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Some of the teachers were especially loyal and dedicated to continue teaching past their retiring age as few new teachers were trained during the war years and the older ones stayed on to fill the need at the time. We didn’t realise their commitment or the interest they took in our futures. In the case of the girls, Jennie Ellinor, the Headmistress made sure that we all went on to further education if possible, not only the academically gifted ones but the ‘middle of the road’ ones too, hoping that we would develop our various talents effectively. It was not as easy for the boys as there was still conscription for National Service at 18 which delayed career development for them. Some went into the Friends’ Ambulance Unit instead of the Forces, which was encouraged. How did FSSW help to shape my future? Thanks to Jennie Ellinor, I was offered a place at Queen Elizabeth College London. Following that, I became
a Home Service Adviser for the North Thames Gas Board but more important than that, I married an Old Scholar Donn Webb in 1957. We have since enjoyed nearly 57 years together with good health, thanks largely to a sensible diet (Domestic science teaching at school) and a joint interest in keeping fit through sport, Donn being the first boy at school to score 100 + in a school cricket match (a feat recently repeated by our grandson at a match at his school). In recent years we have taken up golf and continue swimming daily. We are both so grateful for the opportunities the school gave us, the many happy memories we have, the friends we made and still have. My only regret is that I took it all for granted at the time and wish I could have the opportunity now to say THANK YOU to all the staff for their patience, help and endurance and tolerance. Pat Webb (née Chuter - Year Group 1954)
As we were by Hilary Halter We live in a changing world. Handwritten letters and photograph albums are things of the past. If I want to know what my grandchildren are doing, I have to log on to Facebook or carry on a long conversation – by text, of course. People seem less inclined to take on a personal commitment and the FSSW Old Scholars’ Association is not immune from this trend. While membership numbers are healthy, the Old Scholars’ Reunion is now part of Friends and Family Day and the Annual General Meeting is tucked into the day’s timetable. I have been thinking back 50 years or so when membership of the OSA was a serious business. There were no fewer than three occasions in the year when Old Scholars would get together. At the Annual General Meeting, held in the autumn at Friends’ House in Euston Road, there would be a sizable attendance and the administrative posts would be hotly contested. There was invariably a vote to decide who would be Chairman, Treasurer and Secretary. In March there would be Lecture Weekend at the school with a programme of talks on a variety of
topics of current interest, sporting fixtures, Meetings for Worship and a Saturday evening dance. However, the highlight of the year was the Whitsun at Walden reunion (Whit Monday was then a Bank Holiday). Members would arrive on Friday evening and the programme would run through the weekend until people left on Tuesday morning. Most people travelled by train, which meant that the socialising would begin on the journey down. Hotels and boarding houses throughout the town were booked solid, local families offered bed and breakfast and the far side of the field was lined with tents and several caravans. These were the days when the Old Scholars could field a Second XI for cricket. Apart from the official programme, there were other informal gatherings that were a tradition. I recall spending a happy couple of hours at the home of Sally and Bernard (Barney) Jacobs, the Geography teacher, who would regale us with songs of his native Ireland, such as Delany’s Donkey and Paddy McGinty’s Goat, later to become nationally popular thanks to the Val Doonican Show on television. The climax of the programme was, of course, the Monday evening bonfire around which all Old Scholars and senior pupils would gather for a singsong. On the programme for 1953, it was on the Field. However, in the 1940s, I remember it on the area outside the girls’ end and I remember watching it from the dormitory window. It was a rousing end to a weekend, which those of us who were around remember with great pleasure – and not a little nostalgia. The reminiscences inevitably still circulate among those of us who were around. On Saturday evening at the 1953 reunion, Geoffrey Soar (1938-1942)
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Old Scholars invited Eleanor (Marriage, 1942-52) to dance with him, for the first time. She could not believe her luck! They went on to marry and enjoyed a long and happy partnership until, sadly, Geoff died in 2012. On the other hand, such was the pressure on available accommodation in the town, Wilfrid Hayler (1940-48) recalls a particularly uncomfortable, sleepless weekend when he found himself sharing a bed with a rather large chap whom he had never met before. ******************************************
PROGRAMME (1953) NB – Except where otherwise stated, all indoor functions will be held in the Hall, all meals in the Dining Hall. As School meals also have to be held in the Dining Hall, you are particularly requested to be punctual. Friday 4th June 8.30 pm Supper Saturday, 5th June 8.45 am Breakfast. 10.30 am Old Scholars invite the not-so-old scholars to games on the Lower Field. 11.45 am Boys’ Swimming Match–Old Scholars v. School. 1.30 pm Dinner 2.15 pm Cricket Match–Old Scholars 2nd XI v, Boys XI 2.30 pm Tennis Match–Old Scholars VI v. Girls VI. 3-4 pm Afternoon Tea at Croydon House. 5.00 pm Tea Proper 7-10.45 pm Flannel Dance–Dancing to the Blue Serenaders Dance Band. 8.30-9 pm Buffet Supper Sunday, 6th June 8.45 am Breakfast 10.30 am Meeting for Worship–Friends’ Meeting
House. 11.40 am At Home–Bessie Midgley at Little Larchmount, London Road – Gertrude and C. Brightwen Rowntree at 7 Springhill Road. 12.00 noon Old Scholars’ Committee Meeting – Library 1.15 pm Dinner 2.00 pm The President At Home to his contemporaries–Library 4.45 pm Tea 6.45 pm School Evening Meeting 7.30 pm Sunday Evening Music 8.30 pm Supper Monday, 7th June 8.45 am Breakfast 9.30 am The Tennis Tournament–Mixed Doubles 10.30 am Cricket Match–Old Scholars’ 1st XI v. School XI 10.30 am Old Scholars invite the not-so-old scholars to games on the Lower Field. 11.45 am Girls’ Swimming Match–Old Scholars v. School 1.15 pm Dinner 2.00 pm At Home–Gwen and Gerald Littleboy at Robin’s Acre 4.45 pm Tea 5.45 pm Tennis Finals 7.15 pm Presentation to Margaret Yapp, followed by Old Scholars and School Combined Variety Programme. 9.00 pm Supper 9.45 pm Bonfire on the Field Tuesday, 8th June 7.30 am Breakfast (except by arrangement) N.B.–Trains: Saffron Walden Liverpool St.
7.04, 7.52, 8.22 8.43, 9.01, 9.47
Hilary Halter (née Hockley – Old Scholar 1941-47)
A Few Memories of Music at Saffron Walden Oh dear! The violin was the last thing to which I should have been put at the age of eight. Everyone knows that the keyboard is the right choice for a left-handed child. But no; my puritan parents made me practise the wretched instrument for 15 minutes every morning and evening. The noises I made even upset the neighbours! So when I came to Saffron Walden (FSSW) in the autumn of 1938 aged eleven, I hoped I would be able to leave my violin at home. No such luck! My parents insisted that I must carry on with the instrument. I can remember my surprise during those first few weeks when everything seemed to change. Gradually I began to get some pleasure when I played my violin. A whole new vista opened. Instead of having to play from books of elementary exercises and scales I found myself
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learning the six Handel violin sonatas (one at a time, of course). Real music! Drawing the hairs of a horse across the guts of a cat (they really were gut strings in 1938) became a source of enjoyment. I recall the shock on my mother’s face when she heard me playing bits from one of those sonatas on my return home for the Christmas holidays at the end of my first term. The credit for this transformation goes to Noreen Wright, the violin teacher for my first year at FSSW, whom you see in the photograph. She left the school at the end of the summer term in 1939, but continued to teach locally. Her successor was full of promise, continuing to steer me along the same fruitful and happy path. However, she left at the end of the summer term of 1940, after just one year at FSSW.
Old Scholars And thereby hangs a tale. After the start of World War II (during the summer holidays of 1939) very few parents withdrew their offspring from FSSW. But we saw a major change at the start of the autumn term in 1940.
The FSSW School Orchestra in the Summer Term of 1939 outside the Assembly Hall. Noreen Wright, our teacher and conductor, is third from the right in the second row. Sitting on her right, in the centre of the picture, is David Jackson.
First, several members of the staff had been called up or otherwise had to move elsewhere. And secondly a number of parents felt that they had to withdraw their children, perhaps because of the very real threat of a German invasion, with Saffron Walden’s exposed location not far from the East Anglian coastline. By chance these former pupils included several members of the school orchestra, which virtually ceased to exist for the next two years. Of course, some members of the orchestra had reached leaving age anyway. One of these, who is in the centre of the photograph, is David Jackson, one of the school prefects in 1939. Later in the war David returned one weekend in RAF uniform, the pilot of a Halifax bomber. Tragically, his aircraft was shot down over Le Havre just a few weeks later and David lost his life. Meanwhile, the departures in the summer of 1940 changed the scene for me. Through no great musical skill, I found myself catapulted from being a junior member of the second violins to becoming leader of the orchestra when it was rebuilt in 1943. And I had to perform occasionally on the stage of the Assembly Hall before school audiences and on the days of visits by our parents. Barbara Comber arrived as our new violin teacher in the Autumn Term of 1943 and the happiest of those performances (for me at least) was when we played the Bach Double Violin Concerto, with Stanley Thorne doing a magnificent job with the piano adaptation of the orchestra accompaniment. Sadly Barbara Comber died of cancer not too many years later. Memories of music-making at FSSW during those years would not be complete without mentioning two other points: The first is that our Headmaster, Gerald Littleboy, was an experienced viola player and joined in our rehearsals whenever he could spare the time.
The second is the role of Stanley Thorne, who was in charge of music at FSSW throughout this period. In addition to his activities as a piano teacher and running some fine music lessons as part of our curriculum, he mounted fine performances of two Gilbert & Sullivan operettas, HMS Pinafore and the Pirates of Penzance. It is hard to imagine the workload he must have faced during those wartime conditions. Some readers of these notes will remember the wonderful quality of the performers, both pupils and staff. They included Gerald Littleboy (a fine tenor in a key role), Bernard Jacob (an even finer tenor) and Marjorie Erskine. And the orchestra? I do not know the sources from which Stanley Thorne drew his players, but in both productions they played like professionals (except perhaps in the Pirates of Penzance when the second violins comprised David Jackson - already an Old Scholar but not yet in the RAF - and me). Due to the small size of the pit in the Assembly Hall we both sat on the floor of the Hall, with our legs dangling into the pit, from where we had a good view of the performers on the stage. Playing from very worn 19th century handwritten manuscripts was another completely new and unforgettable experience. So many treasured memories! Music after FSSW? Well, something must have sunk in during those six years of lessons and practice. In the last year I picked up a viola to play alongside the violin, and still use both instruments. Viola players have often been in short supply - how convenient! So at the age of 88 I still play each week in two local amateur orchestras. Definition of a semi-tone? Two viola players trying to play in unison.
Oliver (second from the right) enjoying dinner at the Old Scholars’ Reunion
Oliver Hughes (Year Group 1945)
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Old Scholars Reunion 2015 As you all know, each May we hold an Old Scholars’ Reunion to coincide with the school’s Friends and Families Day. All Old Scholars are welcome but it has been a long held custom to encourage those turning 50 and 60 to attend the day and stay for a celebratory dinner in the evening. This year, however, we decided to extend the invitation to those celebrating other ‘big birthdays’ (i.e. 40 and 70) and it was great to see so many from these year groups join us.
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The main meeting point was the Library where those in Year Groups 1963, 73, 83 and 93 were able to reminisce over old class and whole school photos from more than 20 years ago. It was standing room only for afternoon tea in the Assembly Hall and tours of the boarding houses provided a popular trip down memory lane, not forgetting the traditional Old Scholars’ cricket match to entertain everyone. For once it was not rained off and the Old Scholars emerged victorious! The archive room was also open to all, providing another
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opportunity to look at old photos, school magazines and other items from the past. After the AGM in the afternoon it was a quick change for pre-dinner drinks followed by a delicious threecourse meal, prepared by the school catering team and served in the familiar surroundings of the Dining Hall. Although the venue may not have changed that much, the menu surpassed our expectations and was definitely more restaurant than school standard. The wine and conversation flowed and when it came to “kicking out time” it was great to see so many continue the festivities in town. Special mention must go to Oliver Hughes who at the grand age of 88 (hope you don’t mind Oliver?!) drove all the way from Stourbridge in the Midlands for the
day and was one of the last to leave in the evening, having entertained both myself and Head, Anna Chaudhri, with tales from his schooldays here.
A Date for Your Diary Next year the Annual Reunion will take place on the slightly later date of Saturday 25th June and once again we would love as many Old Scholars as possible to attend but particularly those turning 40, 50, 60 and 70 (i.e. Year Groups 1964, 74, 84 and 94) to meet up and stay for dinner in the evening. If you are in one of these target groups and would like to help us contact your former classmates then please email oldscholars@friends.org.uk Stefanie Godfrey
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Sport Old Scholars return to take on the 1st XI Football Team The Autumn Term saw the re-introduction of the First XI v Old Scholars’ football fixture. Eighteen Old Scholars who attended the school from 2001 to 2013 turned out to play against their younger counterparts. Both teams played flowing football, but it is fair to say the Old Scholars made the most of their seven subs, some of them not having played eleven-a-side football since they left school! James Hutton opened the scoring for the Old Scholars with a wonderful free kick from 25 yards but Felix Hannam followed up a Jake Ogilvie strike to make it 1-1 soon afterwards. James Taylor slotted one home for the Old Scholar’s team, finishing off a great passing move from the more experienced players but Alex Van Enis scored the goal of the game from open play with a 30 yard strike into the top corner to level things up.
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With the match destined for penalties, a defensive error from the now flagging older lads had Jake Ogilvie tap in from five yards to seal the victory for the First XI with a final score of 3-2. The spine of the Old Scholars’ team were Ben Brown, Danny Bennett, Kevin Philemon, Matt Simper, James Taylor and Fergus Walsh to name a few. It was a pleasure to welcome them back and we hope they return again next year! It would be great to get some of the female Old Scholars back for a sporting fixture so if anyone would be interested in playing in an Old Scholars hockey or netball fixture please contact Stefanie Godfrey at oldscholars@friends.org.uk Nick Batcheler
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Friends and Families Day Old Scholars’ Cricket Match 2015 The weather held off this year for an entertaining match between the Old Scholars and the school First XI. The Old Scholars, reinforced with the inclusion of Mark Kimberley, Grant Ward and Chris Clayton Smith, batted first and posted a respectable 153 off 20 overs, with Kimberley retiring on 47 and ex-pupil Tom Dickinson compiling a patient 50. Felix Hannam bowled well for the school side and was supported by Elliot Dowler who was accurate throughout his overs. In reply the school team were 124 after 20 overs with Barnaby Deller hitting a solid 37 and Felix Hannam adding 26 later in the innings. Thanks to all the staff and students (past and present) who played and congratulations to the Old Scholars! We look forward to the rematch next year. Nick Batcheler
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Obituaries Peter Cudbird 1922-2015 Old Scholar FSSW 1932-1938 Peter Cudbird was born on 6th April 1922 to Horace and Lilian Cudbird. Horace was a solicitor. Horace and Lilian started out as members of a free church (Lilian had been a Sunday School teacher) but became Quakers. They were committed socialists and pacifists. Horace refused to serve in the Armed Forces when conscription came in 1916 and was sent to prison, serving three years on hard labour in Winchester Prison. Lilian gave Peter his second name, Leonard, after her brother who was killed on the Western Front in May 1917. Horace and Lilian were active in the Kingston Meeting of Friends before the Second World War and also served on the local council. Peter was brought up into the radical dissenting tradition, which was such a formative influence on British politics and society in the first half of the twentieth century. Peter was sent to Friends’ School as a boarder in 1932 and stayed until 1938. He was good at sport. He also joined in the School Tramps, including one to the Lake District in August 1938-the diary of this event refers to good old Cuddy! He made a number of friends including Hans Frei, Graham Keble, Desmond Mathewman, Paul Fleischman and Max Winfield (seephoto, Peter on extreme left). He left Friends’ School without obtaining his school certificate and completed his education at Surbiton County Grammar School for boys in 1940. As a Conscientious Objector, Peter refused to serve in the Forces during the Second World War. Indeed he rejected any other form of service on the grounds that it would condone war. As a result the tribunals sent him to prison on a number of occasions. He was in Wormwood Scrubs with Sir Michael Tippett, among others. His mother and father supported him in this course. When not in prison he worked part time in his father’s law office. He married Muriel in March 1945 and a son, Terence John, was born a year later. Peter gained an external Degree in Law at London University in 1947. In the same year he commenced his articles at his father’s
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firm, Smith and Hudson in London. He passed his Law Society finals and was admitted as a solicitor in February 1952. In his early years Peter played as much tennis and badminton as he could. He was Secretary of the Surbiton Methodist Tennis Club. He was a brilliant doubles player with an amazing match play temperament. Frequently he would be one set down and yet come back from the brink to win. After a few years working for his father he left for another firm in Barnes to broaden his experience and finally reached the West End in 1960, when he joined H B Supperstone & Co in Mayfair. He specialised in large property transactions and worked very hard until his retirement in 1988. Peter was an unconventional West End solicitor. He did not dress smartly. On one occasion the trousers of an old suit ripped as he bent to open a filing cabinet. He immediately hailed a taxi to Austin Reed, bought a new one and asked them to dispose of the worn out trousers and jacket. He wore a raincoat with the frayed lining held up with staples. Although his room was always untidy, he was respected for his professionalism and personal integrity. As a result he was entrusted with ever more complicated matters and was rewarded with a share in the practice. When he had time to relax Peter always enjoyed hiking – in Devon and the Lake District, in Austria and Switzerland. He always enjoyed classical music. On a Sunday afternoon he sat with his eyes shut and glasses off listening to Beethoven or Brahms on the gramophone. He was always well informed on current affairs and widely read-novels, politics, history. He was a regular subscriber to Peace News and the New Statesman. There was a copy of the latter on his bedside table when he died.
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Later Supperstone’s merged with a larger firm called Campbell Hooper and Peter moved offices to Jermyn Street near Piccadilly Circus and then to Old Queen Street in Westminster. One colleague in his later years remembers Peter behind huge piles of files for Amalgamated Estates with an ashtray full of cigarette stubs. Peter lived simply but he did like driving fast. Another partner remembers being promised a spin in an Audi Sports Coupé. Unfortunately Peter pranged it on the way into London. On another he occasion he was stopped for doing 104mph on the M25 and banned for two weeks. In 1979 he moved from Surbiton to Essex. At first he was fairly active in retirement, especially playing bridge. He was a member of three different bridge clubs and went on a number of bridge holidays. He used to go to reunions at Friends’ School, which he enjoyed. Sadly as he got into his eighties his mind started to deteriorate. Eventually he decided that he would move into Oxenford House near his son Terence in Oxford. His final illness was short and he did not suffer too much. He died on 14th January 2015 aged 92. He was someone who had no time for conventions and was determined to plough his own furrow. He could be stubborn but he stood up for what he thought was right. He could be the life and soul of the
party with a good sense of humour. He enjoyed the company of children and young people, particularly his own family, and was always willing to listen and offer encouragement. However, he was also an intensely private person. He had quite heavyweight intellectual interests but he also could be quite wild - yomping down the scree on Great Gable, speeding down steep hills in Devon on a bike with me between his arms without a thought of safety, driving like the wind. As a father he gave me so much - interests, a grasp of the big issues in life, a moral compass. He had a formidable intellect but at bottom he was a simple, unsophisticated man. With a few exceptions he was not much interested in material possessions. He did not believe in the dogmas of orthodox Christianity but his Quaker upbringing marked him for life with its emphasis on the good, the inner light, in all men and women. He cherished fairness, social justice and the moral values of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He was always kind, tolerant, patient, friendly, polite and courteous. Peter’s funeral was held at Oxford Crematorium on Wednesday February 11th at 1.45pm. It was led by Jenny Buffery, an Elder of the Friends’ Meeting in Oxford and also an Old Scholar of Friends’ School Saffron Walden. Terence Cudbird
Owen John Morice – FSSW 1937 - 1947 John Morice - he never used his first name - was at FSSW when I arrived in September 1938. I’m not sure whether he left in the same year as me, 1944, or stayed for another year.
time on my bicycle, pedalling along roads and lanes that were virtually free of all traffic. The local airfields were amongst the targets of these trips and on two occasions John joined me on his machine.
John was tough and strong and always physically active, but never pushy or a bully. We were just a year apart and although we were not close friends we spent a lot of time in each other’s company.
Here are extracts from the “Cycle Log Book” I kept at the time:
There was a time - I think around 1941 - when some of us were selected to act as air raid lookouts - not really wardens. Working in pairs, we were instructed to patrol the ground floor and the outdoor grounds at night. What a pity that John isn’t here now to confirm my recollection of the occasion when the two of us were on duty and whilst walking around the swimming bath spotted a Junkers 88 bomber caught in the beams of searchlights directly above us, weaving in its attempt to escape the lights. I was one of the pupils at FSSW who spent a lot of free
Thursday 27 May 1943 With Morice To: Thaxted Road, Debden Aerodrome, Newport, Wendens Ambo, Abbey Farm. When we were still some distance from Debden Aerodrome we saw several Thunderbolts (American fighter aeroplanes) starting up and ticking over. When we got there the whole of the top part of the aerodrome was covered with Thunderbolts and more were coming up. We saw 39 take off. The road to Newport is very undulating and has a steep drop into Newport, very near the railway station.
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Old Scholars Partially owing to the heat, Morice began to get tired before we got back. The Thunderbolts returned soon after we did (from their mission over Europe). Sunday 21 May 1944 With Morice To: Windmill Hill, Littlebury, Great Chesterford, Ickleton, Duxford, Duxford Aerodrome; back same route. As the weather was poor and there was a strong wind we did not want to go far, so we decided on Duxford. Morice had not been there before and wanted to have
a look at it. We went quite energetically and did not make bad time considering the wind. As we were leaving Duxford, six Thunderbolts took off over our heads, and two more a little later. Just past Great Chesterford we saw a Miles Whitney Straight go over quite low. It had civil registration letters. All the way back we expected it to rain. We pedalled fairly hard to avoid the rain, and with the tail wind we made quite good time. Oliver Hughes (Year Group 1945)
Michael How (Year Group 1950) - His Life and Times Michael and I first met in September 1942 when we both started at Friends’ School. For myself I already had two sisters there: Margaret, the eldest, and then Ruth who was a couple of years older than me. I have a feeling that Michael managed being there a lot easier than I did. He was always very self-possessed with an innate ability to approach anybody, both fellow pupil and adult. One of my early memories of Michael is that he invented a means of escape for members of the crew if a submarine became trapped under water. He did this using a fountain pen barrel and an ink bladder. By holding it under water he found that the bladder would float to the surface if placed upside down in the pen barrel. He drew diagrams to show how the mechanism could work in a submarine and described the mechanism. These were sent up to some government department and surprisingly a reply came some weeks later thanking him for his idea; however, they explained that an escape device similar in principle to Michael’s had been in use already. He felt quite proud of himself in getting a reply from the Ministry and of thinking of the device. Michael was a multi-talented person: he seemed to have no difficulty with class work; he enjoyed reading,
being a member of the reading club that met every term in Gerald Littleboy’s house. He excelled at drama, something that followed him into adult life when he took part in TV dramas, albeit often in minor roles. He took part in drama productions at school, many of which were Shakespeare plays in which he enjoyed acting He also devised small, usually comic, acts for end of term concerts that he and I took part in occasionally. Unfortunately, the school has been unable to unearth any photos from old copies of the ‘Avenue’. He was always keen on sports: athletics, swimming, football and cricket. He was in school teams for both football and cricket and was awarded colours for football. He had an aptitude for woodwork and was one of the few allowed to use the lathe. During our time at FSSW and especially in the early years, Michael and I had several scraps, some of which he won but, sometimes I managed to win. One I remember was in the boys’ boot room with quite a crowd cheering us on, until it had to stop with the approach of a member of staff. One of the moments of our life together at Friends’ was VE day, May 8th 1945. We were all given a day free from school and luckily it was a fine day. Michael and I put up a small white tent on the school field and snacked on a tin of cold baked beans. I’m not certain how much of the day was spent inside the tent, but
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Old Scholars looking back on it now it seemed a very unusual way of spending such a momentous occasion. Despite his many talents, Michael never put on airs of superiority but continued to be a person easy to get on with, possessing a willingness to talk about anything to anybody. He will be much missed by the members of the Old Scholar group to which he belonged. It was sad that towards the end of his full life he became afflicted with cancer. He, however, showed no self-pity. If questioned about his illness there was only a matter of fact answer to say what the prognosis was said to be. He did not let his changed appearance, due largely to chemotherapy, deter him from continuing to attend reunions. To this end I have included a photo of Michael at his last reunion. Mike Comber (Year Group 1950)
Michael How – Life After School Michael was born the only child of Frank and Evelyn How at Richings Park, Iver on 5th January 1932. Initially he attended Windsor Grammar School but, after a while, he was sent to board at Friends’ School, Saffron Walden. He enjoyed and valued his time at Walden and it had a profound effect on his later life. He played sport, particularly football, was a member of societies such as the literature and natural history groups, and acted in school plays with much acclaim. He also played the trumpet in the orchestra and sang bass in the school choir. Friends made then have stayed friends throughout his life. Michael chose to spend his National Service time out of uniform and worked on the land at a local farm. He thought that he was a fit, strong, young man until, as he said, he found out what hard work really was during that time. His mother was a pharmacist and Michael was encouraged by her to follow a scientific path. Accordingly, he went to University College, London to read Botany but, as he
said frequently, this was a mistake, and he should have taken a Chemistry or a P.P.E. degree. He was employed after university by Cow & Gate as a chemist and later by the paint companies Pinchin Johnson and International Paints so his botany was never directly used. After leaving UCL he studied for a diploma in bookkeeping and business. He met his Swedish wife Ulla in Iver where she was working as a nanny for a local family. They married in Sweden in 1955, where he lived and worked for a short while with her family. After returning to England, Michael and Ulla settled eventually with their young family in Bideford, Devon while he worked for Cow & Gate, and then moved to Cippenham near Slough where he worked as a rep. for the paint company Pinchin Johnson. They sent him to Rotterdam so, once again, the family moved and lived in the Netherlands for seven years. Eventually, Michael and Ulla with Ann, Christopher and Nicola, moved back to England and settled in Harleston, Norfolk where Michael took over a book and gift shop. Books always were, and remained, a passion. His interest in sport after school centered on playing hockey, which he did with several different local teams in England and in the Netherlands, and later Crown Green bowls. His marriage sadly broke up in 1980. Michael continued running a bookshop for a while, and then took the tenancy of the Duke William in Metfield, Suffolk with his second wife. This marriage was short lived but he continued as landlord for some years. After retirement, Michael continued buying and selling old and second hand books at book fairs as he had throughout his life. He was very knowledgeable and an accomplished bookbinder. It was at fairs that he met Jane Smith, and moved to live with her near Maldon in Essex where he died from cancer in May 2012. (He often said that the nine years spent with her were the happiest in his life.) Michael was a fine instinctive actor and was a muchvalued member of several companies throughout his life. Memorably, these were the Maddermarket in Norwich, Roughcast the touring company in Suffolk, and with MacTheatre in Maldon, acting in a variety of different genres, but particularly Shakespeare. The last time was in 2011, in MacTheatre’s production of
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Old Scholars Richard III. He also had several small parts with Anglia Television, particularly in the Lovejoy and Tales of the Unexpected series. He was instrumental in writing and acting in the Millennium pageant for Metfield, About Time and in several pantomimes where he excelled as the Dame. He was keenly interested in local and national politics. At various times in his life he was a local Liberal councillor and a school governor and was an active Liberal Democrat party member right until the end of his life. His diagnosis of cancer in April 2007 meant inevitable changes to his life. He recovered well from two major operations to remove tumours in the bowel and liver, and underwent many gruelling courses of chemotherapy. His survival until May 2012 was against the odds. He maintained that the ethos of Friends’ School at Saffron Walden was instrumental in giving him the courage and fortitude to withstand the very unpleasant side effects and, towards the end, the rapid decline in his quality of life.
Cricket team 1950: Back Row: Tim Whitmore, David Seekings, Robin Webb, Michael How, Uwe Gerstl, Michael Comber Middle Row: John Cadman, Richard Clymo, James Dutton
Jane Smith
Front Row: Robert Dutton, Glyn Abrey, Michael Frizzell
Football team 1947-48:
Prefects:
Back row: Neil Hatch, Martin Dodsworth, Conrad Goom, Michael How, Edwin Wrigley, Stephen Woods
L to R: Owen Edwards, Gwyneth Jackson, Michael How, Wendy Hopkins, Stella Steer, Michael Comber, Pamela Boast, Mary Sargent, Barry Barber, Uwe Gerstl.
Front row: Richard Brown, Fulvio Cassuto, Roderick Blackburn, Donn Webb, Kenneth Frizzell
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David Hadley 1956 to 1963, Old Scholars’ President 1992/93 We grew up in a Quaker family, so it was not surprising we all went to Quaker schools. David went to Friends’ School Saffron Walden, from 1956 to 1963. I joined him two years later going into the Sixth Form. What I found was David seemed very much at the heart of what went on in his class. He was known as ‘D’; I therefore, by extension became ‘Big D’, which I took to be a measure of the affection and respect in which he was held. For one glorious year David, Elizabeth and I were all there together. On the whole it was a friendly place that taught a lot about respect, even if at that time academic success and conventional discipline was not always to the fore! After he left school, David took enormous trouble to stay in touch with his friends. He organised events to meet up, either in London or other venues. Those included joining the school singing carols round the Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square; Old Scholars’ events at the school or any excuse to meet up in town or elsewhere. In the early days, these included weekends away. I remember tramping over the snow-covered hills of Derbyshire, when David invited me to join a walking break he had set up. Looking back one sees the same determination that he applied to everything; the difficulties of the weather were just one of nature’s problems to be overcome. Later on he was one of the people who held the Old Scholars Association together. He was elected President for the year 1992/93, a well-deserved acknowledgement of his dedication and hard work. Malcolm Pim remembers he was Association Secretary the following year, which I think continued till about 1997. He held things together during a period of great difficulty. We will all miss his great qualities of love and kindness, his ability to get things done and his passion for family and friends. Uniquely, whatever he set out to do, he never gave up. Martin Hadley (Year Group 1959)
My old school friend, David Hadley (always known as D to his school friends), sadly died in August 2014 at the age of 69. He came to the school in 1956 and stayed through to A Levels in 1963. He was President of the OSA in 1992-3 – my immediate predecessor in the post. This is relevant because his year as President was marked by his very committed work on the future of the Association and its links with the school so it fell to me to try to take some of his work forward. Immediately after the end of his presidential year, he took on the role of Secretary of the OSA and he also served as Trustee for the Association for many years. There can be few members who have undertaken as many tasks for the OSA over such a period of time. His time at the school and the relationships forged there meant a great deal to him and were maintained and built on throughout the rest of his life. He mentioned in his Presidential Address that he had recently found he was able to draw a complete plan of where everyone slept in Bedroom 2 in 1956 (next to the Avenue clock) including the bedroom prefects. Even before we left school he would be involved in organising get-togethers of one kind or another – at Andy (Nip) Turner’s family holiday home in North Norfolk, around the Christmas Tree in Trafalgar Square when the school choir sang there in the run-up to Christmas or just odd meetings in London during the holidays. After we all left in 1963, he made it his mission to keep people in contact and this continued pretty much for the rest of his life until health issues limited his mobility in the past few years. In January 2014, knowing that I had a day when I would be at a loose end in London, I contacted him and we met for lunch, spending several hours in a pub in High Holborn. It was clear that his health was not good but he was on terrific form, realistic but positive and as enthusiastic as ever, discussing our families, politics and, of course, our school friends and contemporaries. Even then, he was suggesting that we should pull together a 1963 cohort dinner in London later in the year. That was not to be unfortunately. However, he was very much in our thoughts when the cohort (mostly reaching the age of 70 in 2015) gathered for the dinner at the OS Weekend in May 2015 and we were really glad that his brother Martin was able to join us then to, in a sense, represent D. A large number of his contemporaries had attended his funeral with his wife, Pam, and their children, Christopher and Judy. Malcolm Pim (Year Group 1963)
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