A decade of
giving & changing lives 2011 - 2020
[ Supporting our talented pupils ]
Top: Golf simulator, Quarry Theatre Middle: Geography trip to Iceland, refurbished science laboratory Bottom: Flight simulator
Contents Welcome from the Head Master
4
The Chair of Governors
5
The Director of the Bedford School Association
5
Philanthropy at Bedford
6
- Changing Lives by Legacy Giving
8
Changing Lives through Our Facilities
9
- The Quarry Theatre
9
- The Sculpture Studio
10
- The Langham Pavilion Refurbishment
10
- The Science Building Refurbishment
11
Changing Lives through Bursaries and Scholarships 12 - Life-Changing Bursaries and Scholarships
13
- Why Bursaries Matter
14
- Make a Real Difference
15
Changing Lives through Small Grants 16 Serving Our Community
17
- Changing Lives by Serving Our Wider Community
17
- Partnership Work with Local Schools
17
- Developing Future Leaders
18
- Service and Citizenship
18
- The Armed Forces and Public Service
18
- Public Benefit
18
Charitable Giving 19 - Kindness for Captain Tom
20
Bringing the Community Together for Life
21
- Our Annual Events Programme
21
Helping the Next Generation
22
- Providing Careers Advice and Support
22
- London Networking
22
- Oxbridge Interviews
22
Eagle Connect
23
The Role of the Bedford School Association
24
- Parent-Led Groups
24
Preserving Our School Heritage
26
Our Plans for the Future
27
Thanking All Our Supporters
28
- Our Donors
28
- Members of the 1552 Club
30
How You Can Help Today
31
Giving 31
Welcome from the
Head Master
5 A Decade of Giving BEDFORD SCHOOL
On behalf of everyone here at Bedford School, I am delighted to share our inaugural 'A Decade of Giving and Changing Lives' report with you. This publication showcases the amazing generosity of our supporters, highlights the impact that philanthropic gifts have on our pupils, gives a little more background about the breadth of community initiatives in which staff and pupils are involved and also provides us with an opportunity to thank all those who have chosen to make a gift to the school in the last decade. The donors, initiatives and gifts listed in this report are a testament to the wonderfully generous Bedford School community, reflecting its strong belief in the transformative effect that education can have on the lives of young people. What I particularly enjoy about Bedford is the fact that there are so many different opportunities both in academic life and in our extensive range of extracurricular activities. This allows boys, of wide-ranging talents and aptitudes, to thrive and prosper so that they can become the best version of themselves, ‘that they be good men’. Underpinning our ethos is a strong sense of service to the local and wider community. I hope that we equip our pupils for life after Bedford and prepare them to do what they can to make the world a better place. Whether you are a Foundation member, Governor or Trustee, current or former member of staff or parent, an Old Bedfordian or friend of our extraordinary community, your support is fundamental to our future success and, on behalf of the school, I thank you. I hope you enjoy reading this wonderful publication. The support of every generation is critical to the life of the next.
James Hodgson Head Master
The Chair of Governors As a parent whose three sons came through this marvellous place, I could not be more aware of the pivotal part played by Bedford School in enabling all that they have become; there could not be a more appropriate aspiration for any school than that enshrined in the phrase 'that they be good men'. So my sons, like me, owe a deep debt of gratitude to the school and I hope that, in my current role as Chair of Governors, I may be playing just a small part in repaying that debt. More broadly, in this publication, you will rapidly see just what an enormous difference acts of great kindness and altruism have already made to the lives of so many former and current pupils - and to the Bedford community more widely. We need that to continue. I hope, therefore, that you enjoy this read and, if you feel so moved, please take a few moments to consider whether you could also contribute towards the education of those lucky enough to follow at Bedford School in the years to come. Sir Clive Loader KCB OBE, Chair of Governors
The Director of the Bedford School Association As an Old Bedfordian, current and former parent, I realise how fortunate we are to have a strong community of alumni, parents and friends who recognise the value of a Bedford School education and care passionately about building a bright future for our pupils. The Bedford School Association (BSA) exists to support this community, and wants every member to be able to enjoy and benefit from the unique relationship they have with Bedford. We bring together current and former parents, the Old Bedfordians Club and the Foundation under one umbrella. Throughout the year, we organise a wide-ranging programme of events and activities, providing opportunities to socialise, network, learn and nurture life-long relationships with the school, and each other. It is a privilege to be involved with the work of the Bedford School community. It manifests itself in so many ways which, I hope, you will see reflected in this celebration of giving and, more importantly, the impact that it is having on the future of our current crop of pupils and Old Bedfordians. Hugh Maltby (73-83), Director, Bedford School Association
Philanthropy at Bedford
Philanthropy and making donations to Bedford School is not a new phenomenon. There are many examples of benefactors over the years making important gifts to the school. Indeed, the school would not have come into being without the foresight of Sir William Harpur and his original act of benefaction. Over time there have also been several appeals to support specific areas of school life and to help it move forward with the times. It is therefore important that we remember the contribution of many generations and keep this tradition of giving alive. We may now have a Foundation, actively fundraise and sensitively promote giving through our campaigns, but ultimately the rationale has not changed and that is to provide the best start in life possible for the boys of Bedford School. The Bedford School Foundation and Bedford School Trust were founded with the objective of “advancing the education of pupils and former pupils of Bedford School by providing funds, items, services and facilities in advancement of the school and its charitable activities”. The two charities provide financial support for capital projects, scholarships and small grants for day-to-day activities.
The Ousel 1937
[ Celebrating the generosity of our benefactors ]
CR EATIVE7ARTS A Year in Review
A Decade of Giving BEDFORD SCHOOL
“As Chair of the Bedford School Foundation, I would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to the whole community for your extraordinary support and generosity during the last decade. Whether you have chosen to support our scholarship programme or exciting capital projects, such as the Quarry Theatre or Fitness Centre to name but two, your gift to the school has helped make Bedford an exciting place for our boys to be educated”
The Ousel 1934
Sir William Harpur
Lance Feaver (69-74), Chairman, Bedford School Foundation
“I am a proud Old Bedfordian who owes a great debt to this wonderful school for giving me an excellent foundation from which to develop a fulfilling life and career. Like many of you, I have also seen my children develop and flourish at Bedford, taking part in the same traditions, walking the same halls and being continually encouraged to challenge the norm. The experiences that I, my children and generations of other pupils have had are ones that have been supported and made possible by generous philanthropists and donors throughout our history. The next generation of pupils will have you to thank for their opportunities and the memories that they make here. They will be your legacy.” Ian Peck (65-76), Trustee, Bedford School Trust
Changing lives at Bedford by legacy giving
through exclusive membership of the 1552 Club Over the centuries, generous individuals have made the decision to include Bedford School in their wills. Legacies contribute to our future and are essential in enabling us to expand the opportunities and excellence we have to offer. In 2003 the 1552 Club was established, named after the year in which Edward VI granted letters patent for the permanent establishment of the school. The Club was set up to thank and recognise those who have pledged a legacy. Since its launch, membership has grown and is open to anyone who has decided to remember Bedford School in their will. Members are invited to events throughout the year with the highlight being the annual Commemoration of Founders and Benefactors service followed by lunch in the Great Hall with the Head Master, staff and governors. During the last decade we have been fortunate enough to have benefited from a significant number of generous legacies left by Old Bedfordians and friends of the school. These legacies have allowed us to develop the wonderful facilities that the boys now enjoy. If you are interested in joining the 1552 Club and leaving a legacy, please contact the Foundation office or find out more on the BSA page on the school website.
[ Commemoration of Founders and Benefactors ]
8
9 A Decade of Giving BEDFORD SCHOOL
Changing lives through our facilities
The Quarry Theatre The performing arts have undergone a transformation at the school since the opening of the Quarry Theatre in 2015. Located on the edge of the estate, the former St Luke’s Church was sympathetically adapted, now housing a 282-seat theatre and 50-seat studio-theatre. Although primarily a school theatre, the aim is to involve the wider Bedford community as much as possible to be frequent visitors as audience members, participants in events, performers or part of our volunteer team of ushers and front of house staff. Local footfall is estimated at 10,000 per annum, enjoying art lectures, exhibitions, music and theatre.
Main auditorium: £15,000 raised from the sale of individual plaques
“I owe so much to Bedford, both the school and the town. My family’s life has been interwoven with St Luke’s. My parents were married there, my father was the organist, and I was christened there. When the opportunity arose to buy the church and land and to create a unique theatre and arts facility for the benefit of both my school and town, I was delighted to give something back to contribute to ensuring the dream was realised.” Gareth Quarry (68-77) 'Little Shop of Horrors' in 2019
10 A Decade of Giving BEDFORD SCHOOL
The Sculpture Studio Thanks to the generosity of OB Gilbert Lloyd (50-58), the old studio, which is located close to the Quarry Theatre, recently benefited from a major overhaul, opening it up to create a bright and airy space with a wonderful, tranquil ambience. With two picture windows looking out onto the Quarry Gardens, the new studio is an inspiration to all those boys studying sculpture.
“The transformation of the studio is unbelievable. Light is absolutely integral to the sculpting process and the bright, wide open space of the new studio offers the boys the room to sculpt, construct and cast work of a larger and more ambitious scale. The spaces stand up to those of any higher education art school and the addition of a workshop space with metal and wood working equipment provides the boys with opportunities to gain skills that, in the old space, were not safely viable. This new, more cohesive space has been a joy to teach in; the functional archival shelf system in place streamlines the storage of work and the overall design of the workspace makes it a superb learning environment. I am incredibly privileged to teach in this space and I am immensely grateful to Gilbert Lloyd for his generosity and to all those involved in helping this project become a reality.”
Archival shelf system streamlines storage
James Nicholl, Teacher of Sculpture A light, bright, creative space
The Langham Pavilion Refurbishment Sport has always been an integral part of life at Bedford. In 2011, the pavilion, which has been home to many generations of successful rugby and cricket players, was given a significant refurbishment. On Thursday 19 April 2012, England test cricket captain Sir Alastair Cook CBE, OB (98-03), formally opened the pavilion alongside John Langham (37-42) and his wife Irene. At the time of the opening, Sir Alastair commented,
"Looking at this fantastic new facility, I hope that the next generation of Bedford School players will have as much fun as I did during my time here and, above all, enjoy sitting in the changing room working out how to win a game of cricket." Sir Alastair Cook (98-03) opens the Langham Pavilion alongside John and Irene Langham
11 A Decade of Giving BEDFORD SCHOOL
The Science Building Refurbishment While the school estate has benefited from many new buildings across the estate in the last 120 years, some have undergone refurbishment to ensure that they remain fit for purpose. The science building is probably the best example of this, with a recent £1.5m refurbishment in 2015. The origin of the school’s science department can be traced back to 1875, when the then Head Master, James Surtees Phillpotts, introduced chemistry and mechanical science. Science itself was undergoing a revolution – the periodic table had only recently been published – and the school felt that it was important to play its part, so parents were charged an extra guinea per term to cover the large additional cost of science consumables. After several temporary buildings, the current science building had its foundation stone laid in 1932 by Old Bedfordian, Dr Langdon Brown, the Regius Professor of Physics at Cambridge University, and by 1975 the Lucas Wing was added, in recognition of the growing importance of biology. Physics and chemistry were then refurbished in 1984 and reopened by Sir Keith Joseph, the Secretary of State for Science and Education. Over the years, the school has produced many eminent scientists and, of course, lots of boys have progessed into a broad range of careers where their scientific studies played a vital part and gave them an important foundation. Since the 1984 refurbishment, countless boys have navigated the corridors and busied themselves in labs, and this took its toll on the working environment. In 2015, we saw the latest 21st century refurbishment of the science building, which was formally opened by Lord Winston.
Head Master James Hodgson with Lord Winston at the formal opening of the refurbished science building
Olympiad Success In November 2020, seven Upper Sixth Formers participated in the British Physics Olympiad ‘Physics Challenge’ alongside 4,000 other students from across the UK. Three of the boys achieved scores ranking them amongst the top students in the country. The Physics Olympiad aims to encourage the study of physics and to recognise excellence in young physicists through several competitions throughout the year. It is designed to develop problem solving skills alongside a deeper understanding of the ideas and applications of physics.
Changing lives
through bursaries and scholarships
[ OB Kayde Sylvester (18-20), Northampton Saints Academy ] 12
13 A Decade of Giving BEDFORD SCHOOL
Life-Changing Bursaries and Scholarships Life-changing bursaries and scholarships are at the heart of what we do. Bedford foregoes almost £1.1m of income each year in fee remission for bursaries and other awards, in addition to the £0.3m spent annually on scholarships. These funds are focused upon supporting those pupils of exceptional talent who would not be able to attend Bedford without financial support. Our General Scholarships Fund welcomes donations of all sizes. These gifts are used immediately to help bring deserving boys to Bedford whose families would otherwise be unable to afford the fees. Our aim is that these children not only benefit greatly themselves, but that they also create invaluable diversity within the student body and set a powerful example of endeavour for others to follow. We are often reminded that some of the greatest examples of accomplishment and progress – in academic, artistic, dramatic, sporting and musical terms – come from those who, without financial support, would not otherwise be able to come to the school. On average, 160 boys per annum benefit directly and indirectly from scholarships and means-tested bursaries funded through donations.
“When bursary pupils join the school, it is the right time for them to gain the skills and confidence to be able to reach their full potential through their later schooling years, and indeed in life beyond school. There is no doubt that bursaries enrich the experience of every single pupil in the school; indeed, the entire Bedford community benefits." James Hodgson, Head Master Future funding will ensure that pupils never have to have a lesser school experience than those who can afford the fees. Bursary and scholarship pupils must have access to full resources to make the most of their time at Bedford, including all extracurricular activities, educational trips, uniform, books and equipment. Donations of all sizes are welcome to help fund our growing programme, and significant donations will provide for fully-funded named scholarships in a variety of subjects and skills.
"I vividly remember my first visit to Bedford. I was eleven. From Burnaby Road, the Chapel and the old school buildings made a big impression on me. Looking round, I knew I wanted to learn here. I arrived at Bedford as a bursary pupil from a small primary school and benefited from the amazing opportunities on offer." OB (73-83)
14 A Decade of Giving BEDFORD SCHOOL
Why Bursaries Matter Old Bedfordian, Leroy Knowles (92-97) was the recipient of just such a bursary which, in his own words, was life-changing. He came from a mixed-heritage family, growing up in a single-parent home and ultimately spending time in the foster care system with no guidance or role models from the community within which he lived. His mother worked tirelessly holding down two jobs, but often the pay-day lenders and bailiffs could be found entering the home and taking what few possessions they had left. Unfortunately, life for Leroy was going one way, the wrong way, with few opportunities and no way of stopping the downward spiral. His elder siblings had all left school without taking any qualifications, a path he was destined to follow. Leroy describes how growing up in poverty can affect all aspects of a child’s development, whether socially, educationally, or personally. Those who come from these backgrounds are less likely to go to university and more likely to suffer mental health issues. They need someone to guide them, care for them, look out for them and rescue them from following the wrong path. In the absence of a parent there are often others who may provide this guidance - teachers, sports coaches or anyone else willing to demonstrate an understanding of the circumstances and offer one-to-one support. Leroy was lucky, that at the age of 12, there were people that showed an interest in him, believed in him, and put him on the right path to fulfil his potential. A primary school sports teacher laid out a path which would eventually lead him from poverty to the highest A-Level grades, eventually securing a place at Oxford University before having a successful career in investment banking. The teacher made clear that he was capable of more and put his name forward for Bedford School in the hope that the school would grant a full bursary. In the run up to the exam, Leroy was given his first homework to prepare for the assessment. Despite struggling with the papers, the school saw that Leroy was a talented individual with great potential and offered him a full bursary. Following the euphoria of accepting a place, he did not initially join the school. On the first day of term, he avoided the school in the belief that he did not fit the normal stereotype associated with an independent school. In his own mind, he was not rich, white, or eloquent enough to attend such an establishment where he was sure that he would feel uncomfortable, vulnerable, and out of place. The registrar at the time refused to let Leroy turn down the opportunity and continuously phoned his mother to encourage a visit to reassure him that his fears were misplaced. The visit replaced fear with excitement and soon he was meeting boys from other ethnic minorities, some of whom were also on full bursaries. The school funded his uniform and the next day he was in lessons. Bedford School rightly had high expectations and continued to invest in and support Leroy throughout his time there and later at university. Leroy now spends time mentoring others from poorer socioeconomic backgrounds to help them reach their potential. In 2020, he was nominated as a Top 10 BAME inspirational leader in the UK by the Ethnicity Awards. He is a shining example of why bursaries matter and make a real difference to lives, opening opportunities up to those who would not ordinarily be given the chance.
“Thanks to a bursary, I was able to attend Bedford School. I believe this education provided me with three main benefits: First, the inspiring, down to earth and supportive ethos of the school, which filters down to the individual teachers. Secondly, access to amazing sporting facilities, highly qualified coaching staff and opportunities for consistent participation and leadership in a variety of sports. Lastly, and most importantly, the house system and tutor system at Bedford gave me lifelong friends. I would definitely encourage anyone considering supporting Bedford’s scholarship and bursaries programme. Without both being available at Bedford there will be many capable and talented boys who will not be able to access all that Bedford has to offer.” Leroy Knowles (92-97)
15 A Decade of Giving BEDFORD SCHOOL
"You don't have to give a lot to
A word from the make a real difference" Over the last decade, we have been fortunate to be able to set up three new scholarships thanks to the generousity of the following Old Bedfordians, who left legacies to the school in their wills.
Brian Saville 1930 -2013 A pupil at Bedford School from 1940-1948, Brian spent much of his career in the wholesale grocery trade. His generous legacy to the school has been used to fund capital projects and to establish an endowed fund to support the Brian Saville Scholarships. Since 2015, 38 pupils have been supported across a range of disciplines including, academic, drama, music and sport.
Professor John Roach MA PhD 1920-2015 A pupil at Bedford School from 1931-1938, Professor John Roach was a Life Fellow of Corpus Christi College, Cambridge and Emeritus Professor of Education at the University of Sheffield. He devoted much of his life to the study of the History of Education, making a significant contribution to the subject and was a much respected and eminent historian. Since 2017, five pupils have received a Professor John Roach academic scholarship.
C. Gordon Lindsay-White 1914-2009 Gordon Linday-White was a pupil at the school from 1922-1932. He was a keen sportsman, enjoying both rowing and rugby. After leaving Bedford School, he trained in Bedford and London as an accountant, being granted a short service in the RAF as a pilot officer. Following demob, he joined Fords Rhodes & Co in Colombo, gaining a partnership before retiring in June 1961. Since 2011, 46 boys have benefited from a Lindsay-White Scholarship.
OB Brian Saville (40-48)
OB Prof. John Roach (31-38)
OB Gordon Lindsay-White (22-32)
by legacy giving Changing lives
through small grants
A selection of grants made in the last decade
Art trips to New York and Spain
Geography trips to Iceland, UK and France
Biology trip to San Salvador
Gap year funding and project work in Africa
Astro turf resurfacing at the Gordon Field
Cabling and installation of speakers in day and boarding houses
Design and Technology design studio
Great Hall PA System
Refurbishment of the tennis courts
Choir tours in the UK and Europe
Cricket tours to Dubai, South Africa, Sri Lanka and the UK
Rugby tours to Germany, Canada, Dubai and South Africa
2nd XI cricket scoreboard
Fitness Centre equipment
Cricket bowling machine
Dryfire clay shooting simulator
Flight simulator
Fresh water aquarium and marine tank
Art on the roof
Grand piano
Golf simulator
Hockey goals for the Gordon Field
Music Technology equipment
Observatory equipment
Physics helium balloon equipment
Portable television production unit
3D printer
Rifles for the CCF
Robot for table tennis
Through the kind generosity of our many donors, the Trustees of the Bedford School Trust and Foundation have been able to support hundreds of deserving applications from teaching and support staff to enhance the facilities enjoyed by the boys. In the last decade 86 equipment grants have been made which include new table tennis tables, a cricket bowling machine, a Dryfire clay shooting simulator, fitness centre equipment, grand pianos, music technology equipment, mobile hockey scoreboards, racing canoes and many more items. Financial support has been given to 46 pupils who would otherwise not have been able to attend sports and musical tours or academic field trips. Improvements to the school estate have included the resurfacing of the Gordon Field astro turf, the Great Hall PA system, equipment for the Observatory and the resurfacing of the tennis courts. The pandemic has forced the school to think and act differently. Technology enabled the school to become a ‘virtual’ school when the pandemic first hit. In normal times, it is recognised that this technology can have a transformational impact on both pupils and teaching staff. For this reason, the Bedford School Trust approved a grant of £400,000 in 2020 to purchase laptops for all teaching staff. The technology supports our ‘blended’ teaching of both in-class and remote learning.
Technology in action to facilitate remote learning
17 A Decade of Giving BEDFORD SCHOOL
Serving our community & playing our part
Changing Lives by Serving Our Wider Community Our charitable roots are incredibly important to us and we take great care in ensuring that pupils can access a wide range of opportunities to engage with the wider community and our local town. At an individual and institutional level, we teach responsible citizenship to our pupils and encourage harmony amongst people of varying backgrounds and the breakdown of social stereotyping. Our programme is based on partnership with the local community and is designed to ensure that everyone, where possible, benefits equally. Our vision is to create a sustainable and balanced partnership between the school, local primary and secondary schools as well as organisations across the whole town and wider area, to provide opportunities for all. The programme has grown significantly over the last few years and continues to develop, benefitting the wider community and our pupils and staff. By the time he leaves school, every pupil will have made a meaningful contribution to the local community.
Partnership Work with Local Schools In 2019, our pupils helped 15 primary schools and 17 secondary schools in a number of different ways, including reading support and academic enrichment, sports clubs, language and computer classes, music and theatre.
1,000
primary school children have benefited from the programme Bedford School boys share their love of reading with Scott Primary School pupils
18 A Decade of Giving BEDFORD SCHOOL
Developing Future Leaders In 2019, 100 ambitious Sixth Form pupils, from schools across Bedford, gathered at the school for the inaugural Ready2Lead? Leadership Conference. The vision of the conference was a desire to add to the fantastic opportunities already provided in the town and become a hub for inspirational collaboration between our local schools, charities and businesses. With most of the borough’s sixth forms in attendance, the conference created huge possibilities for learning from one another and developing a fantastic self-leadership provision. Despite Covid-19 restrictions the conference took place virtually in 2020 and was a great success. Ready2Lead? Student Ambassadors
Service and Citizenship In 2019, 15 pupils visited local residents in their care homes and regularly attended many of our local primary schools. Through this programme our pupils gain a greater appreciation of the lives of those around them. They also build lasting memories and friendships with the people they visit.
Public Benefit We welcome many members of the local community onto the school estate and share our facilities through joint activities, which we believe plays an importance part in our boys’ development.
Bedford School pupils with the Music for Memory group
During the last few years, hundreds of children from across the borough have attended our lectures on academic subjects' including geography, science, art, drama, history, astronomy and music. The Ickwell nature reserve has been used by local educational groups to connect and engage children with outdoor tasks and team building.
The Armed Forces and Public Service The school has a long and distinguished record of boys serving in both the armed forces and government. Old Bedfordians can be found at all levels of the judiciary, civil service, Parliament, and the NHS, to name but a few sectors. Bedford’s CCF is highly regarded for its excellent standards, with several cadets each year joining the armed forces as commissioned officers. Training for cadets does much to prepare them for a highly demanding modern world. It emphasises and develops leadership qualities, resilience, stretch and challenge, teamwork and responsibility.
Science lectures for local schools
The CCF has a state-of-the-art flight simulator and other equipment which puts us at the forefront of cadet training nationally, and local cadet groups are encouraged to make good use of these facilities, whenever possible.
Ickwelll Nature Reserve
Observatory and Plantarium CCF Royal inspection by HRH the Duke of Gloucester in 2019
£1m
donated from the Bedford School Foundation
£400,000 raised for charitable causes in the last decade
Charitable
giving
Charitable giving is at the heart of our community’s ethos. Over the last decade a staggering £400,000 has been raised supporting over 100 charities, including local charities such as Keech Hospice Care, Macmillan, Bedford Daycare Hospice, Bedford Soupfest, Headway Bedford, Road Victims Trust and District Handicapped Riders. Teacher and Head of Charities and Fundraising Mrs Spyropoulos first launched the 'Movember' fundraising and awareness campaign in 2012 with a group of Sixth Formers (now fondly referred to as the ‘Mo Bros’) to teach each other about mental and physical health issues. Every year the boys create a Movember video for YouTube, which usually goes viral, helping raise awareness and communicate crucial messages about mental health. Additionally, fundraising has taken place in a myriad of ways, from cycling around the world to shoe shining, from open mic nights to themed mufti days; every boy in the school has a chance to take part and contribute in some way. In the eight years we have been supporting Movember, the school has raised a staggering £95,000 to become one of the leading educational fundraisers for this charity. However, it is not just about raising funds. Mrs Spyropoulos commented “We place a huge emphasis on peer led education on physical and mental health; through direct peer teaching as well as leading by action and example, boys are able to learn from one another as well as communicate the health message of Movember within the whole school community'”.
Prep boys with donations for the 'Christmas in Box' appeal
[
Movember ]
1
[ Standing for Movember ] 6.439 together pt
Charitable giving starts at an early age at Bedford with boys in the Prep School raising funds for many different causes. Not only do they fundraise within their houses but boys and staff also support numerous charities and events as a school, including the annual 'Christmas in a Box' appeal, that helps feed families in food poverty over the Christmas period, Carols at the Kiosk and Soupfest.
Kindness for
Captain Tom
It was wonderful to see the strength and widespread reach of the Bedford School community when it came together to help sort 160,000 birthday cards for Captain Sir Tom Moore's 100th birthday. Over 160 volunteers from across the school community came forward to generously give up their time to support this herculean task. A team of helpers also sorted through the mountains of stamps from the envelopes which were donated to raise money for the locally based Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice in Moggerhanger and the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB).
Volunteers from across the community opened over 160,000 cards
Head Master James Hodgson joined volunteers in opening and reading cards
Stamps collected were donated to Royal National Institute of Blind People
20
21 A Decade of Giving BEDFORD SCHOOL
Bringing the
community together for life Lasting relationships are built at school. Whether you are a parent, pupil, OB or a member of staff, we aim to provide ways for you to maintain these connections as well as make new ones, for life.
Our annual events programme We are committed to providing an inspiring and meaningful programme of activity through events, networks and volunteering opportunities, to ensure that our community thrives. Our termly events programme provides access to incredible venues and an immense network. We aim to provide a range of cultural, educational, sporting, social and business events so that there really is something to appeal to everyone.
Annual Events in 2019
80 Events
2,500
Estimated number of attendees across any given year
OB Club Annual 'At Home'
BSA Virtual Talks
Prep and Upper School Guild Annual Christmas and Summer Balls
BSA Bike Ride
OB Club Sports Week: Rugby Sevens
22 A Decade of Giving BEDFORD SCHOOL
Helping the
next generation Providing Careers Advice and Support Since its foundation in 1891, the Old Bedfordians Club has always been there to support alumni of Bedford School. It has helped to foster and maintain relationships between the school and Old Bedfordians by putting on events, sharing information and providing regular updates, adapting to new technologies along the way. It has also strived to assist and support members in their careers and lives and has used the OB network to help current pupils of the school. Over the years, this support has manifested itself in many ways and continues to be built upon through a coordinated programme.
The OB Careers Fair held annually in the Great Hall, was launched in 2007, and sees OBs, parents and friends of the school come together to give career guidance to over 200 boys and girls from Bedford School, Bedford Girls’ School, Mark Rutherford School and Bedford Academy. From journalists to IT professionals, airline pilots, musicians and entrepreneurs, it is wonderful to have such a wide range of fields represented. The pupils gain a great deal from this opportunity, allowing them to hone their networking skills, ask searching questions and broaden their horizons in a friendly, informal atmosphere. Last autumn saw the introduction of a series of virtual workshops with practical skills to help members of the school community when they come to job searches, with hints and tips on how to write the perfect CV, alongside interview and assessment centre techniques. In any given year, we welcome back OBs who kindly offer to present at various school societies on a range of subjects including insurance, accountancy, and mathematics to name but a few. When the pandemic hit in 2020, we took this support for the boys online and ran a virtual Career and Professional Skills course in conjunction with the school Careers Department. In typical community fashion, everyone rallied together to help create an enriching course, with OBs and current/former parents offering online seminars on their careers and areas of professional interest. OBs offer careers advice
London Networking Our London networking events attract a strong following across all age-groups, with an average of over 40 OBs attending each event. They take place after work and provide a relaxed and sociable environment for OBs to network and catch up with one another over a beer or glass of wine.
Oxbridge Interviews Mock Oxbridge interviews are held annually for the current crop of applicants. Members of the school community volunteer as guest interviewers to put the boys through their paces. The boys always find the interviews helpful and enjoy meeting mentors who are experts in their chosen fields.
23 A Decade of Giving BEDFORD SCHOOL
Eagle Connect Eagle Connect is our online social and business networking hub. Designed to bring the Bedford School community closer together, it enables willing OBs, past and present Bedford parents, grandparents and staff to stay connected and support each other in all aspects of their life. Eagle Connect is different to other networks like LinkedIn, because everyone who joins has a shared affection for Bedford School and its community. This means we can create a highly engaged and supportive online community of those who are willing to help each other, both socially and professionally. From finding accommodation on a gap year trip to giving advice to someone who wants to change their career, Eagle Connect is a forum for people to support each other. The hub allows members to connect with each other, mentor recent leavers, find jobs and expand professional networks. Over 80% of all members have offered some form of support, whether that is mentoring, reviewing CVs or simply giving advice on business sectors.
Eagle Connect in Numbers
1,500 Members (and growing)
1,065
Members offering help to each other
324
Members offering internships
An Early Success Story Thanks to the power of Eagle Connect, Old Bedfordian Henry Banks (01-11) was able to fulfil a lifelong ambition of working overseas.
“I was hoping to move to Bermuda to pursue a career in the insurance sector but lacked any business connections. I got in touch with the BSA office and soon found, via Eagle Connect, a number of local contacts who introduced and advised me on suitable roles for myself and my girlfriend. We recently moved out there, and are already making new connections. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity that Eagle Connect offered to me.” If you haven’t already had a chance . . .
join today and get networking at
www.eagleconnect.uk OB Henry Banks (01-11)
980
Members willing to answer industry specific questions
902
Introductions for connections
584 CV Reviews
637
Members willing to mentor
24 A Decade of Giving BEDFORD SCHOOL
Our Community in Numbers
Our Governors and Trustees We are privileged to have a dedicated board of governors with a wealth of knowledge and experience, who voluntarily give up their time to help set the school's strategic vision and offer support and guidance to our leadership team.
1,100
The Bedford School Foundation and Trust are managed and overseen by volunteer Trustees, whose duty it is to make sure that gifts and legacies are spent in accordance with the wishes of the donor. We are immensely grateful for their help and support.
Pupils
The Role of the Bedford School Association The Bedford School Association (BSA) was created in 2010 to harness the power of our community to develop a connected professional and social network committed to helping each other, delivered through a diverse programme of events. Our aim is to offer a lifelong experience of engagement for anyone connected with the school, as well as supporting current pupils through the work of the Foundation. The Bedford School Association community encompasses the following groups:
Alumni – Old Bedfordians (OBs)
Current and former parents
Current and former grandparents
Current and former staff
Foundation members
9,200 Registered Old Bedfordians
3,500 Parents (current and past)
750 Staff (current and past)
Parent-Led Groups We are grateful to all parents who contribute so much to school life through our parent-led groups. Thanks to their time, commitment and fundraising efforts, the pupil experience is enriched in so many ways.
Parents' Guild and Prep Parents' Guild All parents are automatically members of either the Parents’ Guild or the Bedford Prep Parents’ Guild (Prep Guild). Both focus on organising social events for parents and families, and raising funds which are donated back into the school. Recent donations have included T-shirts for the annual tug-ofwar, rowing kit for the trip to Sarnen, ties for the Chapel Choir, play area for the Prep School and archery equipment.
Movember T-shirts provided by the Parents' Guild
Prep pupils making the most of the climbing wall, funded by the Prep Parents' Guild
25 A Decade of Giving BEDFORD SCHOOL
Nearly New Shop
Friends of Bedford School Boat Club (FOBSBC)
The nearly new shop provides a means for parents to buy good condition nearly new school uniform and sportswear, and is run by parents from the Prep and Upper School who volunteer throughout the year.
FOBSBC was established to support the School Boat Club in every sense of the word. The membership is made up mainly of parents, but also OBs and former parents, who enthusiastically support the Club both on and off the river.
Parents' Guild Nearly New Shop volunteers supporting Movember
Eagle Choir The Eagle Choir is made up of parents (current and former), staff and friends of Bedford School. Formed in 1998, it has performed several major works, including the Requiems by Fauré, Duruflé, Mozart and Brahms. The Choir has also sung at many Bedford School events, at the Corn Exchange, Bedford Hospital and various nursing homes. The annual ‘Carols with the Eagle Choir’ in December has helped to raise money for a variety of charities.
FOBSBC at the school's annual reception at Henley Royal Regatta
Parents also help in many other ways. They can often be found helping the Prep School reading scheme, assisting with the Chapel Choir and enjoying a sleepover at the Science Museum with our Year 5 boys.
Past Parents’ Association Lifelong friendships are forged between parents whilst supporting their boys at the numerous music concerts, theatre productions, Chapel services and sporting fixtures that take place throughout their school life. The Association’s aim is to keep former parents involved with the school long after their son has left, through regular communication and invitations to the many events organised by the school and the BSA.
Get Involved If you would like to be part of our thriving parental community, contact us at bsa@bedfordschool.org.uk Eagle Choir performing in the Music School Recital Hall
26 A Decade of Giving BEDFORD SCHOOL
Preserving our School Heritage At Bedford we have a rich heritage we are proud of, dating back many centuries. During the last decade, with the help of a £51,000 grant from the Bedford School Trust, we digitalised our back catalogue of school publications, photographs and old memorabilia. Through the diligent efforts of the school archivist we have undertaken a full audit of our artefacts, archives and paintings, enabling us to make the best use of the collection to engage all members of the school community with our unique history and heritage. As we know, yesterday is our history. The school archivist has been working tirelessly to archive the effects of lockdown on the school within the wider context of the global pandemic; a piece of our history that will interest future generations. We are always grateful to receive memorabilia of any type from members of the school community. Unlimted access to the digital archives is available to all subscribing members of the OB Club - find our more on the OB website (www.bedfordschool.org.uk/association/ob-club).
Our plans for
the future For decades, arguably centuries, the provision of education in Britain has remained in a largely constant state. The pace of technological development at the start of the 21st century, sped up by a global pandemic, has changed everything, at a time when the planet has never been so crowded. Bedford School is determined to continue to educate for the leaders of tomorrow. Research and consultation has shown us a way forward, which will remain relevant for the foreseeable future. On the one hand it is obvious that our boys today will be entering a technological world; and in particular that digital technology will at the forefront of much of the world’s development. We have made exciting strides in this respect, as we aim to ensure that not only will every boy leave here well equipped to deal with the digital world into which he is entering, but also that those who love technology have the opportunity to fly. It has never been more important to accentuate the wonders of being human, given that we are already not able to compete with technology in many areas of life, a trend that will only accelerate. Qualities such as compassion, empathy, humour, creativity and imagination remain largely human qualities and it is important that schools develop these as far as possible. Accordingly, service to others will remain a vital part of a Bedford School education in the next decade – and we have already taken the initiative in this area. We wish to encourage entrepreneurial thinking in all of our pupils, not just in its narrow business sense, but in a wider sense: boys should not only be stimulated to have ideas, but they should be encouraged to bring them to fruition, to succeed and to fail, to learn from experience, to move on and redevelop. The next decade will be a period of collaboration, of embracing diversity, of better use of all available resources on the planet: plant, mineral and animal. Empathetic and responsible leadership should be at the core of this. Bedford School has always produced leaders (without ever forgetting the benefits of being a thoughtful and influential follower, too), and it will be important that we continue to do so; we must produce leaders who are driven by life affirming values and a care for our world. This puts enormous responsibility upon all of us in schools to bring up the next generation with a love of life and a generosity of spirit; what we do here now will impact upon the world of the future. Your support of the school in the last decade has helped us to stay ahead of the times in the early part of this century, to widen access to the school so that individual circumstances don’t prevent boys from benefitting from our education, and to provide facilities which engender a love of learning amongst all who live and work here; your support over the next will make a material difference to the world in which our children and grandchildren live.
28 A Decade of Giving BEDFORD SCHOOL
Thanking All Our Supporters The Trustees of the Bedford School Foundation, members of the Board of Governors, the Head Master and the BSA Office would like to thank all those who have contributed to the school. We value each and every gift no matter what the size. All donors who make gifts totalling £1,000 or more, including any tax claimed by the Foundation as a direct result of the gift, are eligible for election as a Member of the Foundation, by the Trustees. There are six grades of membership to recognise the differing value of members’ donations to the Foundation (including any associated tax claims):
Our Donors Benefactors Mr G F G Lloyd (50-58) Mr G D Quarry (68-77) Mr R Stainer (58-66)
Patrons Mr R E Gordon (46-54) Mr B M B Papé (50-57)
Benefactor
Vice Presidents
This category is restricted to those donating a total of £250,000 or more. Names of Benefactors are read out in perpetuity in Chapel at the annual Commemoration of Founders and Benefactors.
Mrs I E Langham
Patron
Mr P M Young (63-72)
For those donating a total of between £100,000 and £249,999
Mr S Murray CBE (49-58) Mr G W Ridnell (44-50)
Fellows
Vice-President
Mr R J R Canvin (58-69)
For those donating a total of between £50,000 and £99,999
Mr C M Johnson (66-75)
Fellow
Mr W J Jordan MBE (56-67)
For those donating a total of between £25,000 and £49,999
Member For those donating a total of between £5,000 and £24,999
Associate Member For those donating a total of between £1,000 and £4,999
Mr E F Davison (46-50)
Mr I M Laing (54-65) Mr B M F O’Brien (45-49) Mr A J Ormerod (47-57) Mr M G B Shaw (61-65)
Brig I A Christie CBE MC (46-53) Mr B W Claridge (55-59) Mr T K G Cooper Mr J C Dalzell (55-67) Mr M J Deacon (58-68) Mr C Duncan (52-61) Mr S Evstigneev Mr L J Feaver (69-74) Mr R T Gallie (54-59) Wg Cdr R W Gamblin AFC (56-60) Mr N E Garner (58-66) Mr J R B Godber (82-87) Mr S C Gray (59-64) Dr H Henn Mr R M Hext (67-74) Dr J R Hockey (49-57) Mr J Hodgson* Mrs J Howard Mr C J C Ibbett (45-53) Mr R Janahi Mr A D Johnson (73-82) Mr J N Johnson (66-76) Mr S A Johnson (70-81) Mr C N W Jones (48-57) Mr W B Kendall (69-79)
Members Col S A G Abrahams TD (60-70) Mr V J Ayres (51-58) Mr R J Barkshire (43-53) Mr M Bekov Mr V Q Bery (75-77) Mr G E R Blakely (53-57) Mr C S Burr (58-69) Mr C J Bushell (50-55)
His Honour Trevor Kent-Jones TD (54-58) Mr D J Lawrence (45-55) Mr A M Lloyd-Williams (68-76) Mr H M Malek (68-77) Mr B J Mercer Mr T P Murphy Mr D T J Murray (69-76) The Rt Hon Lord Naseby PC (50-55) Mr B M Palmer (53-57)
29 A Decade of Giving BEDFORD SCHOOL
Mr D E Peacock (84-91)
Mr E F Campbell-Gray (76-83)
Dr M C L Le Tocq (60-65)
Mr R M Stout (88-95)
Mr G Peck (44-49)
Mr D A Capon (57-64)
Mr J F Lobley (66-71)
Dr A J Swannell (48-55)
Mr D Pinkney (78-89)
Mr P Carr
Mr N R Maclean (57-62)
Mr J C H Tate (46-57)
Mr M J Rhodes
Mr J H Castle (45-48)
Mr A Malek (68-74)
Mr P Taylor (59-63)
Mr D N Robinson
Mr B Cawley (60-69)
Mr H A J Maltby (73-83)
Mr P Thom (45-55)
Mr C R Rogers (52-59)
Mr P A G Chavasse (49-54)
Mr D C E Mann (77-86)
Mr V H L Tyerman (57-59)
Mr J H Rowe (60-65)
Mr G Chen
Mr A J W Markham (69-81)
Mr P J Valentine (54-61)
Mr R W Sheppard (57-66)
Mrs J Connolly
Mr T Markham (45-53)
Mr N J Vann (65-70)
Mr R P Shorten (41-50)
Mr T A B Coward
Mr M J Marriott (53-61)
Mr P S Walsh (53-63)
Mr M Sismey-Durrant
Lt Col H A Culley (staff 87-07)
Mr T R Marshall (40-48)
Mr R N Watling (57-67)
Mr R J Smith (52-57)
Mr S Culliford (65-70)
Prof S Mayson
Dr R C West (49-56)
The Rt Hon Lord Taylor of Holbeach CBE (57-61)
Dr F J M Curran (74-84)
Mr T G Mitcham (52-56)
Mr R C Williams (71-80)
Mr J H Davidson (54-87)
Mr R L Morgan (84-89)
Mr D Wilson
Mr E A Davies (58-67)
Mr J S Moule (staff 2006-14)
Mr W A D Windham (40-44)
Mr C J Deane (61-65)
Mr B P V Newmark (72-76)
Mr J D Woodrow (83-93)
Mr N B Denison
The Revd Canon J M Paisey (68-76)
Mr P Workman (76-81)
Mr D G Dixon
Mrs N Patel
Mr R W Wright
Dr K Dyck
Mr A J Peacock (51-58)
Mr K A Wust (47-53)
Mr D C Eales (78-84)
Mr B Rose
Dr R C Young (79-86)
Mr J C Edwards (43-54)
Mr D G Rowley (52-56)
Mr S J Haggie (56-63)
Mr J W E Rumboll (55-61)
Mr M D Hall (86-91)
Mr R E R Rumboll (52-57)
Mr M D Harper (60-65)
Dr M J Schwarz (67-73)
Mr R J Harper (60-65)
Mr B R F Shorten (83-90)
Mr R A Harrison (59-64)
Mr K E C Sorenson (54-61)
Mrs E Hawkes
Mr P H Spray (57-64)
Mr J W Hind (72-83)
Mr J H Stammers (83-88)
Mr M W Hinkens
Dr A G Stanley (80-86)
Mr P J Ireland (83-88)
Mr T O M Starkie (56-60)
Mr D J G Ireson (45-54)
Col J M W Stenhouse (57-67)
Ms Y Jiang
Mr L C Stephens (34-44)
Mr H S Kean (60-70)
Dr G M Sterling (43-54)
Mr C R F Kemp (70-74)
Mr P F Stevens
Mrs C Kettleborough
Mr D G Stones (85-90)
Gen T Toyne-Sewell (50-59) Mrs H J Turnham Wg Cdr J A Turnham Mr P W Wallace Mr T N G Williams (69-80) Mr R R Wyatt (50-54)
Associate Members Dr P Adenauer Mr R G Ambler (79-81) Mrs P Aylmer Mrs P Ayres Mr R Banks Mrs A E Barlen Mrs A Barnes Mr P I Belsham (73-80) Mr P J Bennett (46-54) Mr A N Binder (42-49) Mr H R Bolton (82-87) Mr S E Bradshaw (73-78) Mr H G D Brooks (46-55) Mr G M Bushby (74-84)
All care has been taken to ensure accuracy. However, if any error has occured, please accept our sincere apologies and notify the BSA office so that we can amend our records.
30 A Decade of Giving BEDFORD SCHOOL
Members of the 1552 Club Membership of the 1552 club is offered to those who have notified the Foundation that they have remembered the school in their will. 1552 Club Members and their partners are invited to join the school at its Commemoration of Founders and Benefactors service in October each year. Current members of the 1552 Club are as follows: Col S A G Abrahams TD (60-70)
Mr M R Gaskell (58-67)
The Rt Hon Lord Naseby PC (50-55)
Mr G C Anderson (58-62)
Mr P Godber (53-63)
Mr B M F O’Brien (45-49)
Mr M J Appleton (43-51)
Mr S C Gray (59-64)
Mr A J Ormerod (47-57)
Mr C J Austin (41-51)
Mr M J Hargreaves (43-53)
Mr H G Parish (37-45)
Mr A P Banham (54-62)
Mr M D Harper (60-65)
Mr N W Penn (65-69)
Mr G E R Blakely (53-57)
Mr R M Harral (61-71)
Mr R P Plumpton (49-54)
Mr G A Bridges
Mr R P Hart (44-52)
Mr G D Quarry (68-77)
Mrs H F Bridges
Mr N F Haynes (59-69)
Mr T Rajkumar (74-76)
Mr A J Brown (56-64)
Dr D R L Heald (49-58)
Mr G W Ridnell (44-50)
Mrs L Bryant
Mr C J Heaton-Armstrong (50-55)
Mr A D Robbins (55-63)
Mr J H Buck (54-60)
Sir James Hennessy KBE CMG (37-41)
Dr S M Russell (54-61)
Mr J B Burchill (52-57)
Mr R M Hext (67-74)
Mr R P F Shorten (41-50)
Sir Michael Burton KCVO CMG (48-55)
Mr J Hilton-Johnson (79-82)
Mr N M Skipp (86-94)
Mr C J Bushell (50-55)
Dr J R Hockey (49-57)
Prof M S Snaith OBE (53-63)
Mr R E Cable (57-64)
Mr D J L Hoppe (39-50)
Mr L C Stephens (34-44)
Mr B Cawley (60-69)
Mr D J G Ireson (45-54)
Gen T P Toyne Sewell (50-59)
Brig I A Christie CBE MC (46-53)
Mr C M Johnson (66-75)
Wg Cdr J A Turnham
Mrs S L Clarke
Dr R D Johnston (39-50)
Mrs H J Turnham
Mr I C Codrington (45-56)
Mr H S Kean (60-70)
Dr R J White (47-57)
Mr E P Collier (40-44)
His Honour Trevor Kent-Jones TD (54-58)
Mr C T Winter (47-58)
Mr P F Collins (71-78)
Mr D J Lawrence (45-55)
Mr P M Young (63-72)
Rev Dr T J G S Cooper (53-64)
Mr C W Little (61-70)
Lt Col H A Culley (staff 87- 07)
Mr G S Littler-Jones (54-64)
Mr W R Dalzell (48-57)
Mr J G A Longstaff (67-76)
Mr A F D Danby (61-66)
Mr S Lyon (73-84)
D A W Evans (46-51)
His Honour Angus Macdonald (45-50)
Mr G A Fennemore (52-61)
Mr J M MacPherson-Lawley (66-69)
Mr D S Fletcher (58-69)
Mr R L Makin (48-53)
Mr R France (45-56)
Mr B L Marsh (44-54)
Mr W J Gallacher (tbc)
Mr G A Milne (74-81)
Mr M E J Gallagher (67-76)
Mr C Mitchell (64-74)
Mrs J Gamblin
Mr B B Moulang (49-59)
Wg Cdr R W Gamblin AFC (56-60)
Mr F J Musker (67-69)
All care has been taken to ensure accuracy. However, if any error has occured, please accept our sincere apologies and notify the BSA office so that we can amend our records.
31 A Decade of Giving BEDFORD SCHOOL
How You Can Help Today Over the last ten years, donations have had a significant impact on current Bedfordians. Bedford was founded on philanthropy and this tradition has continued, paving the way for the future. All gifts to the Bedford School Foundation go directly toward making Bedford School an even better place to live and learn. Your support, however small, directly helps to provide life-changing opportunities to boys, either through broadening horizons with inspirational projects or transforming the lives of those who see an independent school education as out of reach. All of us at Bedford would like to extend our warmest thanks to everyone who has given, pledged or is planning a bequest to the school. We would also like to thank all those who have supported the school in other ways, notably through time, expertise and goodwill. If you would like to support the school financially, there are many ways in which you can help. Regular gifts: these can be made by standing order on a monthly, quarterly or annual basis. One-off gifts: you can make a secure one-off donation by credit or debit card online or by cheque made payable to the Bedford School Foundation. Legacy-giving: we would be delighted to talk with you privately about how your bequest could benefit the school. Shares: Making a charitable gift of shares is a highly tax efficient way of donating and we are very grateful to receive gifts in this form. Assets: Bedford School Foundation is a registered charity and does not pay tax on gifts of land or property given to us.
Giving It has never been easier to give on the Foundation website. To find our more or to make a donation, visit:
bedfordschool.org.uk/ foundation/giving/
We would be delighted to hear from you, if you would like to find out more about the Foundation and its goals, and how you may be able to help. You can reach us at +44 (0)1234 362255 or email us at foundation@bedfordschool.org.uk You can also visit
bedfordschool.org.uk/foundation
Bedford School, De Parys Avenue, Bedford, MK40 2TU +44 (0)1234 362200 info@bedfordschool.org.uk
bedfordschool.org.uk Bedford School is part of The Harpur Trust: a company limited by guarantee. Registered in England: Company No. 3475202. Registered Office: Pilgrim Centre, Brickhill Drive, Bedford, MK41 7PZ. Registered Charity No. 1066861
