The Ousel 2014 by Bedford-School

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One of the wonderful things about teaching at Bedford School is our large and diverse community of overseas boys. In the Mathematics department, in particular, we see a great depth and breadth of superb mathematicians from abroad coming through our ranks, particularly in post-16 study. This is due, in part, to two particular features of our school. The first is the wide range of facilities offered by our boarding houses that attracts a wide range of outstanding international students. Cultural diversity is celebrated, with housemasters, for example, hosting international cooking and film evenings. The boys are encouraged to integrate outside their national groupings and to share facilities with boys from different backgrounds. The second is our IB World School status by which we offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma as an alternative to A-levels. Because the IB takes a holistic view of post-16 study, students continue to study six courses that must include mathematics, a science, their native language and literature, a foreign language and at least one subject from history, geography, economics or philosophy. Three of the six subjects are studied at ‘higher level’ and three at ‘standard level’, at the students’ choice. Students also have to write an extended essay, attend ‘Theory of Knowledge’ lessons, and engage with CAS (‘Community, Action and Service’). The aim is to produce students who are inquisitive, open-minded, knowledgeable, caring, balanced and reflective. Their ideal ‘learner profile’ is a student who is a strong communicator, a critical thinker and a rational risk-taker. Undoubtedly, A-levels retain a high level of international acceptability and remain attractive to students whose abilities or preferences lie in a narrower field where early specialisation is beneficial. However, in recent years the IB Diploma has increased in popularity as a result of various factors: the autonomy and integrity of the IB body; the appeal of the ‘international perspective’; and greater competition for university places. Geoff Parks, former director of admissions at the University of Cambridge, stated that ‘because the IB differentiates better than A-level, if we are hesitating about making an offer at all, we would be more likely to make an offer to an IB student than an A-level student’ (Telegraph, October 2011). This chimes with our experience: boys who did not excel at GCSE have gone on to study the IB and receive achievable grade offers to study at top universities. Among our top academic students we see a similar pattern: while only 30 per cent of our outgoing upper sixth studied the IB, they received 80 per cent of our Oxbridge offers. Although this may, in part, be because the IB is an attractive option for our brightest boys, it is evident that being an IB World School helps us meet our own and our students’, educational objectives. However, we should not simply consider what the school has to offer to international boys – we should also consider how our international students benefit the school. The fact that we draw our students from the international community increases competition for school places, thus driving up academic standards and benefiting everyone involved. For our British students, daily interaction with international boys widens their cultural awareness, gives new perspectives and improves social skills. They hear the views of boys from entirely different societies and cultures – views they almost certainly would not have heard if they studied elsewhere. For example, in last year’s ‘Festival of Languages’ boys from over ten different countries described interesting features of their society, culture or language. Overseas students also bring different sporting talents – we now boast a thriving community of tabletennis players, a good basketball team and a number of age-group rugby teams containing a spine of overseas students whose enthusiasm significantly exceeds their current ability. Perhaps these teams demonstrate the real value of both sport and cultural diversity. In reflecting on Maya Angelou’s quotation, we might note that not only parents need to teach the value of diversity. Schools and teachers must also take on, and expect to benefit from, this obligation. The value of diversity is a difficult lesson for some, one that is made more difficult by increasing global tensions between national, ethnic and religious groups. At Bedford School the lesson is facilitated by having students from many different national backgrounds, who come together to learn, socialise and play. This diversity is evident in all aspects of the school’s activities, but its true value may only be appreciated in years to come. E.E. Murray

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It is time for parents to teach young people early on that in diversity there is beauty and there is strength. – Maya Angelou

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EDITOR E.E. Murray CONTENTS From the Head Master’s Study Prize Giving The Chapel Art Design and Technology Drama Music Expeditions House Reports Staff News The 2014 Boy Leavers Rugby Hockey Cricket Boat Club Association Football Other Minor Sports Charities General Education Ickwell Nature Reserve Duke of Edinburgh’s Award CCF Bedford School Association Old Bedfordians

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DESIGN AND PRODUCTION The Armstrong Collective PHOTOGRAPHS Anson Cheng, A.J.R. Huxford and J.B. Watson THE COVER Front: A group of Bedford School boys on a glacier trek on Sólheimajökull, Iceland. Photograph: Jerome Watson Back: Fred the horse recovering timber at Bedford School’s nature reserve in Ickwell. Photograph: Chris Jones ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– The views expressed by contributors to The Ousel are not necessarily those of the school. While we make every effort to include all the text of articles submitted, we cannot always guarantee that articles will be reproduced in their entirety. We reserve the right to edit and amend where necessary. © Bedford School 2014 Bedford School is part of The Harpur Trust –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BEDFORD SCHOOL • DE PARYS AVENUE • BEDFORD MK40 2TU Telephone: 01234 362200 • Facsimile: 01234 362283 • email: info@bedfordschool.org.uk • Website: http//www.bedfordschool.org.uk

FROM THE HEAD MASTER’S STUDY Less than two weeks into a new job, at a time when one might think that a new Head Master would be immersing himself in the present in order to form opinions on the future, I have found myself drawn rather wonderfully into the past. My first opportunity to form an impression of the boys at the school was presented in the opening school assembly of the year. I had the pleasure of giving out about 30 academic awards, based upon excellence in exams last summer, and every single boy who came to collect an award looked me straight in the eye, shook hands firmly and said ‘Thank you, sir’. This may seem an obvious thing for adults but, believe me, in the world of the 15 year old, it is not quite such a given. Fast forward one week, please, to the old boys’ rugby sevens match at school – about 100 old boys, many with parents back visiting for the first time since they left, a good number not playing but simply supporting old friends, all reliving memories and playing or watching some good, hardfought rugby. And exactly the same thing happened: every single old boy I met looked me straight in the eye, shook hands firmly and had something to say (usually, but not exclusively, without the ‘sir’ this time!). I realised then that this was not a recent phenomenon – it was a Bedford School thing, something embedded in its DNA, one of those important niceties which is handed down from generation to generation and which makes more of an impression on the recipient than any number of qualifications. And then there was the first week’s postbag. I received many letters from friends and family (as one might expect when one starts a new job); but also, given the role I have taken on, a huge number of letters from people I do not know – current parents, past parents, former staff, friends of the school and most noticeably (and most numerously) old boys. There are 8,000 living Old Bedfordians and what struck me about all of those letters was the continuing love for this school from men who left not just in the past 10 years, like most of those rugby players, but up to 70 years ago. They gave a humbling reminder of what a happy and successful education can provide for each and every boy we have in our care. A headmaster, or any leader, is only a temporary custodian of something far greater than any individual. As a classicist, I hope to understand the value of the past as a route to making sense of the present, and perhaps even foreseeing the future; and there has been no more obvious manifestation of that than the experiences of my first few days in post. Thucydides, the founder of modern history, writing almost two and a half thousand years ago, reflected this in his typically succinct way in the preface to his History of the Peloponnesian War. He declared that ‘if [my history] be judged useful by those inquirers who wish for an exact knowledge of the past as an aid to the interpretation of the future, which (in the course of human things) it must resemble even if it does not reflect, I shall be content. I have written my work, not as an essay which is to win the applause of the moment, but as a possession for all time.’ Any headmaster, it seems to me, must seek to take the Thucydidean approach; his (or her) school is a living being, with a past, a present and a future, all of which complement the other, none of which are separable and which keeps in mind the notion of a possession for all time. It has already been a privilege to start to forge links with the whole Bedfordian community, both past and present. I hope you enjoy this edition of The Ousel which, in similar vein, seeks to mould the two seamlessly; and, here and there, it might just point the way forward, too … J.S. Hodgson

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PRIZE GIVING

This year’s upper school prize giving was held on Saturday 10th May 2014. Boys, parents, teachers and guests were joined by guest speaker Miles Young, OB (63–72), who is worldwide chairman and CEO of Ogilvy & Mather. His address to the assembled audience was riveting and profound, encouraging the boys to recognise the characteristics that really matter: energy, thinking, humility and emotional intelligence. R.J. Midgley

B.N. Anstis E.H. Arbe-Barnes A. Blake S. Brami´ nksi D.V. Brett G.E. Burton N. Chapman S.H. Cho H.G. Churchill-Coleman M.J.L. Colbeck J.E. Cooper M.F.K. Cooper A. Dorgham M. Dzitko M. Glik I. Golosov

The Prizewinners K.R. Gupta T.J. Hine A.D.R. Horn K. Kansagra F.P. Kozera M.P.F. Lawson J.J. Lee J.A.H. Loewenthal T.H. Lousada J.A. MacTavish R.S. Martin S. Mau J.L. Morgan B.J.E. Moule

B.J.P. Nethersole T. Ngampakdeepanich R.G. Oakley E. Parkin M. Ratnayake C.C. Roberts R.R. Salvesen A. Sekeran A. Shah I.G. Simon J.K. Smith H.U.S. Sumal J.J. Wellington M. Williamson L.F.J. Wilson T.W.R. Yan

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THE SCHOOL CHAPEL

The Chapel year began with the sad occasion of a memorial service on 31st August for the late Guy Fletcher. The Chapel was packed with members of the school, past and present, family, friends, and a wide circle of people from Mr Fletcher’s involvement in sporting and other activities outside of school. His brother, David Fletcher, spoke movingly about their fraternal relationship; Jeremy Farrell, former housemaster of Redburn, spoke fulsomely about Mr Fletcher as a colleague; ‘Budge’ Rogers (OB) spoke amusingly about his achievements as a sportsman; and Oliver Clough (OB), head of school 2010–11, spoke poignantly about him as a superb teacher. It was an inspiring occasion to honour one of the ‘legends’ of the school. Mr Fletcher’s passing was a great loss, but nonetheless, ‘Schola Bedfordiensis Floreat’. At Founders and Benefactors, the distinguished physicist Professor John Wood, CBE, scientific advisor to the European Commission among other things, was the preacher. A good length sermon about information and knowledge and its relevance to the Christian faith apparently left some in the congregation rather bemused, but it generated a more-than-usual amount of discussion in the staff common room during the following weeks. We were especially grateful to Professor Wood for standing in at very short notice, when the scheduled preacher was taken seriously ill. The Head Master, John Moule, preached a simple, powerful, moving, challenging sermon (with his customary eloquence) at what was his final Remembrance Sunday at Bedford. Other preachers during the autumn term included the Revd Tim Hastie-Smith, National Director of Scripture Union, the Revd Anthony Bewes, Leader of Lymington-Rushmore Holidays, and the Revd John Miller (OB), who is also on the staff team of Lymington-Rushmore.

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During the spring, I preached a series of Lenten sermons on the seven deadly sins, which seem to have provoked a fair amount of discussion. After the sermon on sloth, one boy exclaimed, ‘Sir, that sermon was all about me’! I responded that it could just as easily have been all about me. What was interesting about the series was that in most cases the actual meaning of the original medieval Latin word was subtly but significantly different from the usual understanding of its English equivalent – thus sloth, for example, turned out to be not so much idleness as a kind of hopeless despair about life, leading to dispirited lassitude and inactivity. The summer term saw the visit of our Diocesan Bishop of St Albans, the Rt Revd Alan Smith, who conducted the annual school confirmation service. In the event, James Trustram Eve, then in the upper sixth, was the sole candidate presented. Later in the term, the Revd Dr Peter Ackroyd, Vicar of Wootton and a school parent, also came to preach. The year concluded with the leavers’ and OBs’ service, at which John Moule preached for the very last time as Head Master of Bedford School, concluding with the story of a young man in the 19th century who wanted to enter politics and sought advice from a senior parliamentarian, who asked him what he planned to do with his life. The answer was that he hoped to be successful in business or a profession. ‘And then what?’ came the question. ‘Well, then I hope to marry, settle down and raise a family.’ ‘And then what?’ ‘Well, then I shall enjoy seeing my children grow up and follow in my footsteps.’ ‘And then what?’ ‘Well, then I suppose I shall retire and enjoy a comfortable old age.’ ‘And then what?’ persisted the older man. Rather uncomfortably the answer came, ‘Then eventually I shall die.’ A pause, and then the question again, ‘And then what?’ Revd Shaun Atkins

INTERVIEW WITH D-DAY VETERAN, MAJOR RON ROGERS

For such a momentous occasion, only the school’s Memorial Hall seemed a fitting setting. Ron Rogers, the 96-year-old D-Day veteran who we would be interviewing, looked surprisingly spritely and seemed almost wistful as he looked around the room dedicated to the sacrifices that he and hundreds of others from the school had made. As the interview – more of a personal recollection – started to unfold, we were astounded by his ability to vividly remember every detail, from his exploits with the Bedford rugby club to the rigorous training he undertook before the D-Day assault. Occasionally, a smile would break across his weathered face as he reminisced about his time in Bedford. Mr Rogers spoke fondly of the school, particularly of its sporting prestige. As he spoke of the war, he reflected upon his reasons for signing up. It definitely was not his career of choice (he aspired to be an accountant); it was not for the guns and it was not for the girls; it was because the rest of his rugby team already had. After recounting his experiences at home, he reflected on his military achievements. He started off by telling us that he had been told he would be left out of the first day of the landings. However, he recalled his midnight journey from his ship towards

French shores. He detailed how specialists had attempted, quite successfully, to remove the barbed wire and mines that previously lay on the beaches. Modestly remarking that there ‘wasn’t much’ opposition, Mr Rogers proceeded to inform us that this did not mean the coast was clear. Not at all. The seemingly innocent French buildings overlooking the previously picturesque coastal scene housed some snipers who were responsible for various casualties. However, this did not stop the progress of Mr Rogers’s division and, instead of being disheartened, they proceeded to forge further into French land. Having been astoundingly modest regarding his achievements so far, Mr Rogers’s tone shifted more towards one of pride as he recounted his division’s task of capturing a gun set-up in order to liberate the French town of Colleville. The town is now called Colleville-Montgomery, honouring Sir Bernard Montgomery, a British commander who was heavily involved in this operation, called Operation Overlord. Mr Rogers fondly remembered Montgomery, paying respect to his ability to get the recruits fit in time for the invasion. Even more fondly, he remembered the division’s teamwork as they swept through Colleville, liberating it from the German forces. If his mere involvement in the D-Day landings was not enough, Mr Rogers’ sheer humility surrounding his role rendered us speechless. He had no unnecessary hubris, no claims of superiority. Instead he seemed genuinely honoured to have been able to help his country, and many more people overseas. However, what stuck with us the most was his modest description of the plethora of medals which he wore. They included an area-specific, a defence, a general service and a territorial medal. We were in awe of his achievements. His response? Typically modest, but with a nostalgic twinkle in his eye, he said to us that ‘everyone in the army would have them’. Manahara Ratnayake, Tom Backhouse and Noah van Mierlo

THE MAGAZINE OF BEDFORD SCHOOL AND THE OLD BEDFORDIANS CLUB

THE ARCHIE WELLBELOVE PRIZE On 29th January 2014, the English department hosted the first prize-giving ceremony for the Archie Wellbelove prize. The prize is named in honour of Archie Wellbelove (OB) (01–12) who tragically died in December 2012. While at school he had been a lively presence within the Rice Building and readily proclaimed The Great Gatsby to be his favourite novel. At the time of his death, Archie had just completed his first term of study towards a combined degree in English and French at Warwick University. Boys from fourth form, remove form and fifth form had been invited to submit an entry discussing a text of their choice in response to one of three possible questions. The calibre of the entries was incredibly high and students explored challenging concepts within thought-provoking literature. Poetry, plays and novels were investigated for their ambiguities and the value of a text was examined within sophisticated and eloquent readings. The ceremony itself took place in the cricket pavilion where staff, students and parents had the opportunity to read the submissions and hear the entrants deliver their ideas about their chosen texts and their experience of the process. It was a fascinating insight into an academic activity that demanded a great deal of initiative and responsibility from the boys. The entrants delivered an honest account of the challenges and rewards that such an undertaking evoked. Their ideas were creative and original and the scholarly approach taken by all was admirable. The English department was delighted to welcome Mr Stephen Bywater, head of English at Bedford Modern School, to judge the event. Mr Bywater commended all entrants for their intelligent perspectives and announced Alex Horn as the overall winner with his ambitious and mature exploration of Iago from Shakespeare’s Othello. Alex’s entry is printed below. Runners-up were Logan Jones and Robert Salvesen who wrote about Ginsberg’s Howl and Miller’s Death of a Salesman. We look forward to the entries of 2015 with great anticipation. S.A. Adams

‘We often learn the most from characters we struggle to like.’ by Alex Horn

With reference to Othello by William Shakespeare RSC Complete Works edition, pages 2086–2155 The title statement – ‘We often learn the most from characters we struggle to like’ – seems to challenge our very idea of the moral obligation of literature: from early childhood we have been told that Good wins over Evil and the heroes live Happily Ever After,1 but this is not – as we see in society today, and in the more challenging pieces of literature – always the case. Shakespeare’s Iago, a character rooted in his own hatred and desire, is someone from which we can, as readers, learn much: the importance of knowledge and trust in mankind, and how men and women influence one another, for better and for worse. Iago represents the darker side to the brain; that manipulative

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half that struggles to be set free on the world to make its mark,2 but is held back by the force of Good: the Good that Othello strives for. Othello, the man of honour, becomes distracted as the play goes on by the constant nagging of Iago, much like the constant nagging in the back of our brains when such neurotic thoughts of jealousy arise as they do in Othello’s mind. Thus, the dichotomy in the two principle characters in Shakespeare’s play represent the dichotomy of Good and Evil seen – as aforementioned – from the very early days of our reading history right through to the end. One of the better things a reader may take away from a good book is a further, deeper understanding of themselves: a sense of self-discovery is something avid readers strive for; so Iago illustrates to us, the readers, how we are deep down; he highlights our internal struggle, and therefore we learn from him – regardless of whether we like him as a character or not, he is fundamental to our understanding of Good and Evil. Perhaps the most interesting thing about the character of Iago is his motive for the revenge he enacts – why does he do them,

despite ruining the lives of many; including his wife, Emilia, and his friends Rodorigo and Cassio – the most interesting thing being his seeming lack of motive. Some criticsi believe that from the quotation ‘I hate the Moor: / And it is thought abroad that ‘twixt my sheets / He has done my office’ii one can infer that Iago believes rumours are abound that Othello has been laying with Emilia. Thus Iago goes on, ‘I know not if’t be true, / But I, for mere suspicion in that kind, / Will do as if for surety,’iii and so begins the play’s most intricate rivalry of Othello versus Iago. William Hazlitt3 put Iago’s procedure best: ‘He is an amateur of tragedy in real life; and instead of employing his invention on imaginary characters, or long-forgotten incidents, he takes the bolder and more desperate course of getting up his plot at home, casts the principle parts among his nearest friends and connections, and rehearses it in downright earnest, with steady nerves and unabated resolution.’iv With this analogy we can learn not only about Iago’s desperate clawing for attention and power in the play, but can follow Shakespeare’s train of thought and make comparisons with other, non-fictional, members of our lives – and of society as a whole. Thus learning of motives, and perhaps pre-empting another creature of that most vile nature from rising: a very Brechtian idea indeed.4 Is this, therefore, Shakespeare’s motive for writing this play; specifically for writing in the villain Iago? Is it such that Shakespeare was warning his Jacobean audience of powerhungry men rising from the depths of Imperial Britain? Or was he merely being cruel only to be kind5; providing entertainment at the cost of most people’s moral dignity; showing that such an evil character up on the stage is somehow cathartic for the audience of the play: that we may relish every twist and turn of Iago’s wicked mind. Othello was, indeed, based upon Un Capitano Moro by Cinthio,v so it was not – like many other plays by Shakespeare – an original idea. But this reinvention does not, however, mean that there is no room for the Bard’s trademark creativity. A theme running throughout the play, that of duplicity, is worked and reworked by Shakespeare; such as the critical conversation in which Iago plants a seed of doubt in his general’s mind, ‘Men should be what they seem, / Or those that be not, would they might seem none’.vi In this, Othello pleads that all men be honest and just, or else be dead; and yet, he calls his ensign ‘Honest Iago’,vii a great many times, never seeing through his cunning ruse. Does, therefore, Shakespeare teach us something through Iago and the play more than about the blackness of his heart? Perhaps he teaches us about originality of ideas, and how we can mould something already in circulation to better reflect a point we want to make: as a politician might quote another in debate. Shakespeare remoulds Iago’s character to show that perhaps all is not as it seems. ‘Surely,’ one may ask, ‘there are positive aspects to Iago’s character and therefore things we may take away that make us better people?’ Perhaps so: undoubtedly Iago is a good soldier, throughout the play displaying his talents as a leader. The most important aspect of his greatness is his cunning, his wit and his ability to play the part of confidant and counsellor; himself remarking ‘And what’s he then that says I play the villain? / When this advice is free I give, and honest’,viii seemingly selfdemeaning but yet bragging all along. This subtlety of character

is something we see in leaders – politicians and royals – and even office workers and bosses today (often saying things such as ‘it was nothing’); are they influenced by Iago, then, and the message he left behind? Shakespeare’s influence on society is undoubted,6 and therefore maybe it is true that Iago somehow ‘rubbed off’ on society today, and our modesty and wit is as a result of his. How then, all being said, are we to receive this heartless creation of Shakespeare’s? It is clear that we are meant to take something away from the play: a moral message is under all the drama somewhere, but what is it? Is it that we should not judge great men by the colour of their skin? Of course, race is a huge factor in Othello, but let us not delve into that great pit; only to produce further issues and complications for ourselves. So no then, that is not what Iago represents to a modern (or in fact Jacobean) audience. Is it that, as stated earlier, Iago represents something of the human condition? Perhaps it is; he is the darkness within us, we strive to avoid our inner Iagos. So, with this knowledge, how do you solve a problem like Iago?7 We know that we must ‘overcome evil with good’ix so we must – in this example – find the way to conquer Iago. This is where Shakespeare’s ‘hero’ character fails: Othello never wins; he – although the hero ought to triumph over the villain – kills his own wife and then himself. And here is the crucial point: Shakespeare leaves us hanging; forcing the reader to beat down their inner Iagos all alone. And this is a way we learn, without the help of the playwright, more from a character we struggle to like – Iago – than we do from Othello, who leaves us with an empty feeling inside; a longing for some conclusion. Overall, therefore, we as an audience of Othello, or as readers of the play in print, learn much from Iago as a character and as a fragment of ourselves. In giving Iago form on the stage, Shakespeare takes away our need to try and explain our darkest thoughts and feelings to each other, and allows us as one to unite against this (surprisingly) common foe. Considering this, we see that we learn more from Iago than we would from the typical hero who goes on a journey and conquers over a great evil,8 and thus we must agree with the title statement. We do, indeed, ‘often learn the most from characters we struggle to like’. 1 The ending phrase commonly found in fairy tales, such as Aesop’s fables. 2 The ‘inner evil’ described in Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness. 3 Noted Romantic era literary critic (1778–1830). 4 Bertolt Brecht often attempted to transfer some political message through his plays, such as The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui, an extended metaphor of Adolf Hitler’s rise to power, which ends ‘Do not rejoice in his defeat, you men. For though the world has stood up and stopped the bastard, the bitch that bore him is in heat again.’ 5 Paraphrased from Hamlet 3.4. 6 Such as a ‘sorry sight’ from Macbeth 2.2, line 25. 7 Paraphrasing of the refrain from Maria from The Sound of Music. 8 For example, the story of St George and the Dragon in the Golden Legend by Jacobus de Voragine, the most popular edition of the common tale now associated with Christian tradition. Bibliography: i Such as the analysts at www.shakespeare-navigators.com ii Othello 1.3, lines 375–7. iii Othello 1.3, lines 377–9. iv Introduction to the RSC’s Othello, page 2084. v Discussed on www.cliffnotes.com vi Othello 3.3, lines 144–5. vii Othello 2.3, line 159. viiiOthello 2.3, lines 300–1. ix Holy Bible, Romans 12:21.

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THE HOUSE BOOK REVIEW COMPETITION This was a new library initiative that was launched in September 2013. There were junior and senior categories and boys were invited to write a book review on a book of their choice. The entries were judged by the library staff and members of the Library Development Committee. Prizes were awarded to the six finalists in each house and the two overall winners received their prizes in assembly. House points were awarded for each winning entry and the overall house winner was Bromham. The winning entries have been printed below. The senior category was won by Cian Brittle with his review of The Butcher Boy by Patrick McCabe:

McCabe tackles the entertaining and the disturbing, introducing us to rural 1960s Ireland in the process, in his insidiously funny book, The Butcher Boy. The devastating story of Francie Brady is one of loss and loneliness; his colloquial narrative and persona belies a character far darker in mentality. In addition, this probing novel will make you question what is right and wrong as you witness the degradation of a character you feel you’ve known all your life. This is the true conquest of McCabe’s book; his ability to make you connect with this boy that you have no likeness to, he is McCabe’s anti-hero. McCabe’s traditional black humour runs throughout, as his breathless pace whips you through a shockingly intimate account of a confused mind yet lets you miss nothing. We are introduced to our narrator, Francie, as he hides from the police after ‘what he done on Mrs Nugent’. Precisely what he did is revealed later. We witness first-hand the strain of his parents’ marriage, with one particularly harrowing scene where Francie walks in on his mother about to hang herself. The true sadness of this is that Francie doesn’t realise the extent of the situation and merely asks for some sweets. It is this childlike innocence and naivety which is the true horror of Francie’s character. His father and uncle grew up in a Belfast orphanage waiting disconsolately for the father that never came, and now ‘Da’ immerses himself in drink to forget that pain. Francie’s

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uncle, Alo, the family success story, got away to England and built a living for himself as a factory security man. This is a stark contrast to the Bradys’ next-door neighbours, the Nugents. They are the perfect family in Francie’s eyes, all the more reason to hate them. However, at the same time, Francie envies them: he wants to be a part of that loving and caring environment. The Nugents’ son, Philip, is in Francie’s class at school and is the snobbish, blazer-wearing, stereotypical posh English boy that is designed to be disliked. His innumerable comics spark the interest of Francie and Joe, and they end up stealing them – a petty crime that is simply punished by a ticking off from Mrs Nugent. When Alo comes calling, the whole town visits the Brady household for a welcome party, only for it to be broken up by Benny’s (Francie’s father) outburst. This results in Francie running away from home and committing small robberies across Dublin in numerous shops, only to return to find his mother has committed suicide. Benny never lets Francie forget this, and blames him without reprieve. After Francie defecates in the Nugents’ house, fulfilling the label ‘pig’ that Mrs Nugent placed on him, he follows in the footsteps of his father and is sent to a church-run home for wayward boys. And wayward priests … Francie is fortunate enough to be handed a job by the local butcher as he proves his worth by unflinchingly slaughtering a piglet. It is during this time that Francie takes up drinking and he specifically heads out at night with the local drunk looking for fights. Once again, Francie follows the same path that his father has; alcohol ultimately being the cause of his father’s death. One of the most sorrowful extracts of the book occurs when Francie comes back to find his father’s dead body, yet Francie doesn’t realise his father is dead and continues to talk to him and act as if everything is normal for weeks on end. It is through the slaughterhouse where he works that he’s provided with the bolt gun that ultimately decides Mrs Nugent’s fate. His progression from stealing comic books from a classmate to murder is complete – seemingly inevitable yet tragic for the reader as we realise the extent of Francie’s degradation. Dark and devastating, this is one of the most startling and original, and strongest, novels to come out of Ireland in the past 25 years. McCabe has created a classic.

The junior category was won by Angus Watson with his review of Throne of Jade by Naomi Novik: Following on from the first book in the series, Captain Will Laurence of the British Aerial Dragon Corps has just taken part in the Battle of Dover. He is now faced with a new problem: the Chinese have demanded the return of his dragon, the Celestial Temeraire. The British cannot afford to refuse the powerful Chinese, but since Temeraire refuses to leave Laurence and Laurence shares the same sentiment, the pair of them are forced to journey to China together. After a skirmish with two French frigates, the cold and callous Prince Yongxing attempts to have Laurence assassinated.

FOWLES PRIZE John Fowles (OB) is the author of well-known novels including The French Lieutenant’s Woman. Prior to his death in 2005, he endowed a prize for essay writing. The John Fowles essay prize is open to all boys in the sixth form. Entries may either take the form of a creative piece or a discursive essay, and they may be no longer than 1,500 words. This year’s winning entry was a poem, which has been printed below.

However, Laurence cannot afford to accuse such a powerful political opponent without sufficient evidence. Upon arriving in China Temeraire is overawed by the way in which dragons are treated, so differently from the beasts of war they are in Europe. Another assassination attempt follows which Laurence narrowly survives and following this the British diplomat Hammond realises that Yongxing’s attempts to kill Laurence have been so that he can set up a new potential heir to the throne. Before they can reveal this information yet another assassination attempt occurs. This forces Temeraire and Yongxing’s dragon, Lien, into open conflict. Yongxing is killed during this battle and Lien flees China. Laurence is then adopted by the Emperor and the book closes with Temeraire and Laurence preparing to journey home to Britain. I thought that the book was fantastic. The setting, combined with other ideas such as the breeding of dragons to produce more powerful breeds, stops the book falling prey to accusations of attempting to imitate the Eragon series as some other series have attempted (and failed) to do. The dialogue is precise and flows well and the characters are good, although the author does tend to have the heroes as rather flawless which does slightly detract from the overall reality of the world they inhabit. Particularly interesting is the dragon Temeraire. He is only a few months old but fully grown, and his physical size and power contrast sharply with his incredibly intelligent yet childlike mind. The use of historical battles and names from our history gives a very strong sense of reality. During the middle of the voyage the long stretches of political cloak and dagger activities can become a little wearing but if you push on through this section you will be well rewarded. All in all this was a very good and enjoyable book and I look forward to reading the rest of the series. I would recommend this book to any lover of fantasy and action. While it may not appeal to those people who want action constantly, those with a wider range of literary tastes will be well rewarded. It has a very different flavour to the first book (much less combat and a lot more political intrigue) but is still just as enjoyable.

Birthday Pains, 00:00 am They see whole spools of the real deal Tumbling out ahead of me, and hear even Some success (sluggish knells) happy-smothered. That colossal, and colossal again, fiery bugger Studded sorely into my every day; it took Eighteen laps, right around; I’ve more ground to cover? All I see is zero-zero; of ‘what now?’ I’m unreckoning; it seems a much lesser task Than having shed (not even all) youth’s infirmity. Spritely I’ll spring to the death and taxes Package; O the right, to sagaciously gripe, And arise, with hostile, night ochre-eyes. Too soon, the incremental switch on April Was managed, without a fulsome swipe Of people’s clockwork; at zero-twelve. A mild ache for one’s relevance, this witless Clamour-caper, all for what’s passed; it piles up: Hollowness of ageing, as must, rotas of being. Bound for me was that switch, in winters Of frigid blinks at fresh mornings; and thumbed Past lessons; as then, all things made news. Prompts sudden landscaping, relentless landscaping (Bound for me, or was I bound for it?) Zero-zero has sped away; why then Iie fit. Stanisław Brami´ nski

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THE DETWEILER COMPETITION This competition is one of the highlights of the year in the Art department. The school can be justifiably proud of the fact that the foyer gallery is occupied almost all year by the work of professional artists and the hope is that these wide-ranging exhibitions are both enjoyable and inspirational for those who pass through the gallery. The only time the professionals do not get to exhibit is between February half-term and Easter, when the space is given over to the boys to exhibit their work. Besides the anticipation about who is going to win the prizes, it is a wonderful opportunity for the boys to see their work in this main gallery space as stand-alone works of art that, for this period only, are not exclusively about GCSE, A-level and IB exams. The announcement that the writer and art critic Martin Gayford was going to be this year’s judge did cause general anxiety among the boys. Wasn’t getting a genuine art critic to look at the work overkill? What would someone who looks at art all the time as a profession have to say about their work? To help with the judging, Martin was joined by Peter Moore and John McArthur, both friends of the late Alan Detweiler, the composer and philanthropist who so generously supported this competition for many years. For this year’s theme of ‘Natural Forms’ a good number of musical composition entries were produced by the boys. This

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was fantastic to see (and hear!) and is something we hope to continue to encourage in future years. Using the works of artists as a starting point, an exciting range of pieces were produced. Fortunately, as Martin Gayford is also a jazz critic, he was well equipped to judge them. George Edwards was the recipient of the ‘highly commended’ music award for his piece inspired by J.M.W. Turner’s painting The Blue Rigi. The wide-ranging use of media to interpret this year’s theme was reflected in the final prizes awarded in the 2D and 3D categories. Robbie Evans (upper sixth) received a ‘highly commended’ award for his striking Photoshopped images of his own photos projected on to school buildings. Gage Lidder (fifth form), Justin Chung (upper sixth) and Josh Steel (upper sixth) all received ‘highly commended’ awards for their pieces using different printing processes, as did Gordon Yip’s (lower sixth) small but beguiling fruit sculpture. James Skirrow (upper sixth) was the winner of the 2D prize for his tightly controlled and oversized portrait of Miss Swallow from the Biology department, while Kevin Chan’s (upper sixth) imaginative, exciting and exuberant plaster waterfall scooped the 3D prize. Last, but by no means least, Ben Whitelaw won the junior literary prize (see right). M.C. Croker

NATURE’S DEATH First, there was creation. The soft swaying of the Evergreen trees, the majestic surges of the clear blue seas. Nothing bad, One has only to smell the air to feel the scent of balance in the quiet world, Apes eat nuts like whales eat krill but they wait, they wait. Next, there comes development … The smoky sparking of a small fire, the soft, low chanting from the tribal choirs. Nothing bad, nothing good, One will help them, because one does not fear them and so they remain innocent, Homo habilis devour buffalo they caught but still they wait, they wait. Then, there is culture. The silent sailing of new books’ pages the sound of knowledge running through the ages. Nothing bad, nothing good, One stops helping them, but cannot stop them helping themselves to one, Homo sapiens shape metal, harvest crops so they prepare, they prepare. Now, there is industry. The sharp swinging of saws on trees, the spilling of oil over the thick green seas Nothing good, One is fleeing, but will inevitably trip over the newly set traps of them. Humans kill whales, animals they whip and so they start, they start. Soon, there will be silence. Not the slightest sound will be explored, Nothing heard under the loud roar of man Nothing good, Nothing good, One has fallen and is surrounded by them. Will they strike and reduce one down to nothing larger than the small, insignificant being that they started as. Will they betray one? Will they grind one down until one’s so insignificant that it cannot help them and cannot stop them and after this, will they grind down, to specks of dust? and so they conclude, they conclude.

Ben Whitelaw

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ARTiculation I first came across ARTiculation in 2011 on a visit to the New Art Centre at Roche Court. Roche Court is a beautiful country house built in 1804, set in a landscaped park near Salisbury in Wiltshire. There is an excellent gallery showing contemporary art, and the park has many sculptures by both British and international sculptors. I soon got into conversation with a member of the gallery staff, who told me about the ARTiculation National Art Public Speaking Competition for A-level students run by the Roche Court Educational Trust. I quote from their literature: ‘The ARTiculation Prize is an annual event designed to promote the appreciation and discussion of art. The competition seeks to engage students, regardless of background or experience, with art and to develop their confidence and ability to express their opinions, thoughts and conclusions. Each student is invited to deliver a ten-minute presentation to an interested audience about a work of art, artefact or architecture of their choice. Adjudicators are asked to assess each presentation as a whole, looking at content, structure and delivery.’ We first entered the competition in January 2012, taking part in the regional heat at the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge. Anthony Hensman gained a creditable second place in a very competitive field. Sam Assim was our candidate in 2013. The competition was definitely getting hotter! For our internal competition this year we had five candidates: Assakhan Amirov, Nick Chapman, Stan Brami´ nski, Arthur Edmonds and Felix Lin, who gave some really interesting and well-presented speeches. From this group Stan was chosen as our representative and he began the process of honing his speech into a potential competition winner. The regional heat again took place in Cambridge, in January. Felix and Arthur came along to support Stan who was selected to speak first, and we had a nail-biting time as we sat listening to the remaining speakers. We were, of course, delighted when Stan was chosen as the winner, to go forward to the finals. The ARTiculation finals took place at Clare College on Saturday 1st March. It was with high expectations that Fiona Whiteman, Stan, Arthur, Felix and I set off for the conference. The BBC had been filming the heats, and was due to be there to film the finals in preparation for their feature on The Culture Show. The day began with a lecture from Tim Knox, Director of the Fitzwilliam Museum, followed by a tour of sculptures around Cambridge and lunch in the college. There was great excitement in the lecture theatre at the speeches began, eight in all, ranging from Mondrian and Malevich to Klimt, Giacometti and the Japanese architect Sou Fujimoto. Stan was the third candidate to speak, and we listened intently as he gave a superb interpretation of Ecce Homo by Rembrandt. When all the speeches were over, we waited expectantly as the adjudicator, artist and writer Edmund De Waal, left the auditorium to consider his verdict. We were delighted to discover that Stan had come second, despite believing, of course, that he should have won! We returned home to Bedford having had a thoroughly inspirational day and looking forward to next year’s competition. J.S. Chance

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Marcus Eames, Year 13

Phillip Tsang, Year 13

Robbie Evans, Year 13

James Skirrow, Year 13

Ali Blake, Year 13

Shay Boyd, Year 11

ART

Joshua Steel, Year 13

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Will Tarbox, Year 12

Xavier Pleuger, Year 11

Ben Nethersole, Year 13 Sam Barkes, Year 13 Arthur Edmonds, Year 12

James Robinson, Year 12

ART Toby Clarke, Year 11

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Justin Chung, Year 13

Max Foulkes, Year 11

ART George Cave, Year 11

Oliver Mortimer, Year 11

Dan Lin, Year 12

Jacob King, Year 12 Kevin Chan, Year 13

Billy Kong, Year 13

James Yin, Year 11

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ROME ART TOUR

All carrying our coal-black A4 standard-Croker-issue sketchbooks (smelling freshly of paper acid) we were greeted by the Vitruvian Man, aloft and nailed-together in a wooden sphere. This was Leonardo Da Vinci Airport in mid-afternoon rays, and we were from merry fields to Rome – but there was no coach. As the phone wrangle began, we leant against streaky railings. ‘Cheer up, sir! All roads lead to Rome …,’ and just like that Rome was much farther away. Rome can sometimes be a city not atop myriad geological slats of compressed time. That is, in part, its appeal: the ground you walk on in the Forum is excitedly but a few inches away from some first century pagan paraphernalia. Perhaps, even while walking about and dodging vendors selling garish silk ties, past gutted old buildings sporting Italian fashion, some 19th century plaster could crumble under your feet. As Clive James wrote, ‘What can you say about so old a city in so short a space?’, I had hoped to concentrate on some overlooked rough gems in museum room corners, and not hopscotch from one crux of art history to another. Yet that hope was hopeless; much like the Purple Imperial Porphyry papal keys set into the threshold of St Peter’s, the best of Rome remains the best despite centuries of wear. It could be said that our first taste of Rome was the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, which has long corridors and exquisite tall curtains of fraying tarnished fabric. In one side room there was a copy of the Aphrodite of Cnidus, viewable from every angle, and of course most caught the grimace of Diego Velazquez’s (1599–1660) Pope Innocent X. I remember more clearly, however, a wiped out Mr Chance sitting on some 17th century tiles and the cold, gummy taste of a half-cooked panini – that was my first taste of Rome. The next day, on the way to the Vatican, we came past the former Mausoleum of Hadrian (now a former papal fortress), from which Tosca endlessly hurtles to the pebbled paths below. The Vatican grounds bore a remarkable resemblance to the school grounds: enclosed, ancient, central and quite visible; only we weren’t made to jog the perimeter twice, and the school is, at most, half the 44 hectares. In the first gallery, after wading

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through a few rooms of martyrdom, I reached the tapestries, which were stunning. Every two metres squared had been a month in the making. There wasn’t much time to absorb Emperor Nero’s whopping bath, or the contorted Belvedere Torso before heading directly down to the Sistine Chapel. This was contentious. The group decidedly preferred the trompe l’oeil (meant to give the illusion of a three-dimensional space) fresco on the ceiling of the Sant’Ignazio di Loyola, which we later visited, to the Sistine ceiling. The values of Renaissance art such as order, balance and tradition had been trumped by the sensuality and spectacle of the baroque. Or maybe it was because the Sistine ceiling was so high. Andrea Pozzo’s (1642–1709) fresco made us gape into rosy clouds swirling around a gigantic gaudy glory of saints, angels and cherubim. The Pincio Gardens on the Pincio Hill were welcome respite from the broil of Rome in an Italian summer. It was an oasis of dark green grass and tall trees shading the paths. While the shade was welcome, I still enjoyed leaning on a marble barrier in the sun, basking in the light, while taking in the view and enjoying the sound of a spontaneous accordion (I eventually realised it was a love theme from The Godfather. Oh, the Eternal City …). To our left were the historic seven hills, and directly in front was the Piazza del Popolo where we took our group photograph. It was taken right in front, as it happens, of the Porto del Popolo: a Roman gateway which for centuries was travellers’ first sight of the city coming from the north. Two thousand years ago it would have been a sight perhaps beholden to us Anglians in chains, or on pikes; today, with an aftertaste of hotel cornflakes. We glimpsed it at the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, and deceptively insipid-looking Sant’Ignazio di Loyola, but the Villa Borghese fully exposed us to the ridiculous opulence of Rome. In this place precious stones and variegated marbles tumbled through one’s head like portraits stacked up on a manor wall. To name two: Quartzite Picasso, swirls of mild orange, violet and white; and Portoto Buono, black with wisps of gold. They lined every surface like fur in a coat. There were rich frescos and mosaics showing myths and busts along the walls, some so stern the

OLI ARMSTRONG

ALI BLAKE

BILLY KONG

Roman noses were liable to shoot off from the pressure of the frowns. There was, however, an incongruous bust – a relic – in the corner of the Caravaggio room. All calculation of Borgheseera ostentation seemed absent – it was an eroded, but seemingly honest thick-lipped and beaten-browed bust of a man. I wouldn’t be able to move on without mentioning the group’s enthrallment with Gian Lorenzo Bernini (1598–1680) as all were stunned by the delicate vortexes of fabric in Apollo and Daphne, and the life-like indents in the flesh of Persephone in the Rape of Persephone. Rome had struck a baroque-shaped chord. Luxury like in the Villa Borghese silently pervaded the visit, though it was most remarkable when we ducked into the Santa Maria della Vittoria to see Bernini’s St Teresa in Ecstasy. Somehow this tiny place managed to supersede the finery we had thus witnessed. If you cast one thousand seeds they would all land on a different hue of the marbles, beneath a ceiling stuffed with burnished celestial beings (‘a golden cupidon peeped out’).1 At shin level there were lapis lazuli inlays, and the altar was guarded by pillars of Bianco e Nero d’Aquitania – used by the Roman royalty. All in all, what was there was not the glory of God, but the glory of Rome. A glory almost suffocatingly ubiquitous, even in contemporary Rome where theist thugs with halberds have been replaced by traffic wardens roaming the streets. To get to the Capitoline Museums we had to swoop round the National Monument of Vittorio Emanuele II, a gigantic bonewhite affair nicknamed ‘Typewriter and Wedding Cake’ by locals (no doubt affectionately). Having scaled the Campidoglio stairs we split up under an equestrienne statue – one hoof raised; he had a death which, when I enquired, ‘sucked’. At this point I had had an almost fatal overdose of classicism, so the Palazzo Nuovo was mostly missed by me, except fragments of the Colossus of Constantine, which were nigh unmissable, and the Dying Gaul : I was stopped in my tracks by the tired and tipping face of renunciation. Underground there were second century Roman dwellings, amid which it is possible to look out over the Roman Forum. Here, looking at the grass strewn with stumps and pockmarked columns, each perfectly vertical, a friend turned to me and said ‘You know … the Romans got it right’. In the identical Palazzo dei Conservatori I encountered Pope Innocent X again, this time non-grimacing and blankly benevolent, papal robes a thick brocade and by Alessandro

JAMIE TRUSTRAM-EVE

Algardi (1595–1654). This was the language of power. Also notable were the Statue of Marsyas, on which purple-flecked marble most effectively represented the damage of flagellation (inexplicably, sketching this was prohibited), and the iconic Capitoline she-wolf which is said to have been cast in the fifth century. It is suckled by a 15th century Renaissance Romulus and Remus. It represents the legacy of Roman antiquity: from an indelible memory at the end of the Roman Empire to veneration and emulation in the Renaissance. The next day we saw the Forum up close. We passed through the Arch of Titus on which was carved Roman soldiers carrying off spoils from Jerusalem, amid which there was a comically big menorah (the British Empire would later share this fondness for making off with other people’s cultural heritage). The Coliseum which came afterwards iterated in great force the absence of those menorah-snatching Romans: there hadn’t been any fivefoot spectators to leap up and down its once maroon and canary yellow steps for at least 1,500 years. The forlornness emanated from the jumbled brittle stones like so much else in Rome; still waiting, however, by the glassy Tiber for Romans never to return. The aforementioned friend was sketching a fuselage on takeoff. Rome was what was on my mind: there once walked Michelangelo, Raphael and Bernini one thousand feet below. A fact as profound four days ago five minutes before touchdown. Many and great thanks to Mr Croker for leading the charge, and also to Mr Chance and Mrs Whiteman for keeping the column intact. Stanisław Brami´ nski 1

The Waste Land, T.S. Eliot.

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THE GILBERT LLOYD LECTURES

Martin Gayford, a veteran journalist acquainted with David Hockney and Lucian Freud among others, always provides a great beginning to a new Gilbert Lloyd series, bringing his specialist views to the EMH. This was especially so for such a colossal figure in academia and in the public imagination as Michelangelo. Martin in an hour reduced the colossus to something we could comfortably handle in the palms of our hands. Up until then we only knew Michelangelo in passing, but now we are far better acquainted after the ground that was covered: first, an inordinately precocious youth, turning out The Torment of Saint Anthony at 13; then, a nurturing eccentric household, having ‘something of the Crane brothers about it’; soon, a vendetta of Renaissance masters, having quick-fire and vitriolic repartees with Da Vinci in the Florentine streets; finally, sculptures of legend (Pieta), paintings of heaven (The Last Judgement), and an ego which, to my mind, transmuted into Michelangelo’s legacy (his self-portrait in The Last Judgement, an empty skin, was particularly well absorbed by the lower sixth). The scene of Michelangelo, flesh incorruptible like a saint, being carried in his funeral procession was the image that Martin began with, which indelibly and effectively illustrated the measure of the man: a kilometre long string of catholic candles in San Lorenzo, and then some. Helen Little, assistant curator of the recent Lowry and the Painting of Modern Life exhibition at the Tate, was the second speaker of the series and one who was eagerly anticipated due to the scarcity of art historians coming to speak at the school. Indeed, the evening provided the illumination only an art historian can provide, primarily – to much amusement – in proving that Lowry’s work does not all look alike. A friend of ours who had seen the exhibition told us beforehand there was no variation on a theme of austere and cold paintings. Conversely, Helen Little clearly illustrated the rich variety of Lowry’s work, particularly the hidden individual narratives within each piece: the look of a matchstick man on crutches, and domestic disputes in windows. It is quite easy to become lost in the movements of the slouches. Lowry showed the glitter of the gritty; the emotional value of the lowest beaten rung in society. Helen Little showed us the glitter of the nitty-gritty, of Lowry. The third – and best – instalment in the season was Sargy Mann who had been painting blind for years, and is the former mentor of our very own former Director of Art, Mr Campbell. Whenever we see any painting in any gallery we ask ourselves:

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what does the artist know, that we don’t know? What can the artist see, that we can’t see? Or rather, what has the artist seen, that we could never see? With Sargy the word was obviously not see, but sense. We learnt how he progressed to this, to blind painting, through different stages of sight, until pitch black. He unforgettably likened his ultimate method to a musician composing by summoning bassoons and violins to his study. I doubt there was not an artist or student in the room not affected by Sargy’s pristine powers of imagination, from accurately describing works of art history he had seen and revisited, to the colours of his portraits and landscapes he shall never see. It was more remarkable, however, to learn how the artistic impetus to breach, manipulate and master the blankness had persevered in Sargy. For us that blankness might have been a piece of paper, or a canvas. For Sargy it was a sensory universe we could scarcely conceive of; hopefully now, all who heard Sargy speak, can a little bit more. His resolve – and his devoted colour ‘pitch-perfect’ wife – which has created paintings of colours and forms as strong as raw crushed pigments, was what made it a wholesomely uplifting evening. As he put it himself: ‘There’s light at the end of the tunnel, even if it isn’t light.’ For the final lecture of the year we had the pleasure of Catherine Goodman’s company and her absorbing lecture gave us a glimpse of what inspired her stunning portraits. Catherine studied at the Camberwell School of Arts and Crafts followed by three years at the Royal Academy School where she received the Royal Academy Gold Medal in 1987. She is currently working at the Prince’s Drawing School in London as the artistic director, having won the illustrious BP Portrait Award in 2002. Catherine’s lecture was very poignant as she discussed and showed us some of her favourite works. One of the most memorable images was of her beloved disabled sister Sophie, a painting which I felt expressed so much love and care – the blue tones becoming a common theme which ran through the picture. This colour scheme evoked a thoughtful and contemplative mood. Indeed all of Catherine’s work expressed a caring and thoughtful relationship to the sitters she portrayed. As an audience we were provided with a greater understanding of the development and meaning of her work as she articulately talked about past teachers and the incident involving a fire in her previous studio and how that impacted and altered her perspective and take on art. It was a wonderful experience listening to Catherine enthuse and talk so passionately about her work. We know that as a result we will be looking forward to her forthcoming exhibition – ‘Catherine Goodman: Portraits from Life’ which is to be shown at the National Portrait Gallery, London, from June to November. A special mention and thanks to Mr Croker, Mrs Whiteman, Mr Chance and the rest of the Art department for organising these lectures: as students we learn and gain so much from them. Stanisław Brami´ nski and James Skirrow

HARPUR SCIENCE FORUM

‘Perhaps what we need is not more scientists, rather more theologians.’ Those were the final musings of Professor Steve Jones which closed the 2013–14 lecture series. It may seem odd for me, as chair of a society which exists to promote interest in science, to highlight this statement but I feel it holds some truth. Theology works with a pre-existing narrative, from which it derives truth; with science it is perhaps far too easy to obsess with finding truth and miss appreciating the whole narrative. I believe it was the narrative of genetics which Professor Jones tried to convey, piecing together the discoveries which led to the field of genetics being what it is today. Then again, I have undergone two years of studying theory of knowledge with the IB and am now inclined to read too much into everything. Whether our lecture series gave attendees an understanding of the narrative of science I am unsure, but the numbers of people who attended each lecture (over 500 for Steve Jones and typically over 200 for any lecture) is testament to how the Harpur Science Forum continues to inspire and engage people from across the community. Our first lecture of the year came from Dr Louisa Preston of the Open University entitled ‘The Search for Life in the Solar System and Beyond’. This introduction to astrobiology seemed to venture almost into the world of science fiction, detailing Dr Preston’s quest for extra-terrestrial life. Admittedly her search was mainly limited to searching for new amino acids rather than our (or at least my) preconceived idea of creatures akin to those we may have seen in Dr Who. Befitting a lecture on ‘Alien Biology’ her talk was highly captivating, hardly surprising given Dr Preston is a TED Fellow. I think everybody left the theatre engaged with a field of science they probably knew little about before and, indeed, I was reprimanded by my co-chair (Ellie Harbinson of BGS) for being overly in awe of Dr Preston at the post-lecture dinner! The second lecture saw some respite for the physicists as Professor David Tong of the High Energy Particle Physics Group (University of Cambridge) spoke on ‘The Cosmological Constant and the Higgs Boson: Why They’re Just Not Natural’. This was truly a journey that went from the smallest subatomic particle right to the furthest reaches of the universe. As a testament to the quality of Professor Tong’s talk, even those of us with a limited understanding of physics could grasp the main thrust,

although I admit to being lost during some of the more probing questions. It was a highly interactive talk with questions being taken throughout to help guide us, allowing us to follow what was quite an intellectually challenging subject. After our foray into space we were brought back to earth with a highly enjoyable lecture from Professor Jeff Laitman, Director of Anatomy at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, on ‘The Evolution of Man’. The ebullient and humorous Professor Laitman took us through sequential discoveries of prehistoric skeletons and what they elucidated about the order and causes of human evolutionary steps. The talk was highly entertaining with the development of the ability to speak being put in the context of its evolutionary advantage, as too were character traits such as teenage rebellion and disobedience. Professor Maggie Dallman, Dean of Natural Sciences at Imperial College London, gave a talk entitled ‘The Beauty of Immunity’. This detailed her research into the impacts our lifestyle has on our immune system. Her research was conducted mostly using zebra fish, capitalising on a genetic trait that makes them transparent. It was fascinating to hear how her team can simulate 21st century human behaviour in fish which are only 4 cm in length, including getting them to smoke! The talk provided a real insight into the science behind many things we know to be true, including how smoking and cholesterol impact negatively upon our health. We finished the lecture series with our ‘headliner’ – the much anticipated talk by Professor Steve Jones, FRS, of UCL, entitled ‘The Bible Retold as Science’. The lecture was inspired by Professor Jones’s book of the same title and was largely based on genetics. I have already said a bit about the talk but what I believe to be the real success of the lecture was indeed the number who attended from across the community (all local schools are invited to all lectures). It was this which exemplifies the purpose of the Harpur Science Forum: to provide inspirational lectures for the local community to engage people in science. I will remember for a long time looking out during my opening address and seeing the Great Hall full of people – not just from our school – present to learn about science; I was truly proud to call myself a Bedfordian. As Ellie and I pass on leadership of this society, we thank Mr Beale for all his hard work in making it run as well as it does and wish luck to our successors. Eddy Arbe-Barnes

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DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY You may have seen March of the Penguins or Spy in the Huddle; those nature documentaries took years of patience and a lot of logistical support to get insight into the world of penguins at one or two colonies and bring us a snapshot of their daily lives, but it’s really only a snapshot. They rarely show penguins foraging miles offshore, or the comparison between nearby colonies, because it’s really, really difficult to get to all of these places! It’s hardly surprising then, that scientists lack data to understand important changes to Antarctic penguin populations from climate change and fisheries; only data coming from a few sites near scientific bases contributes to our understanding of penguins. As a result, other ecologists and I have been placing time-lapse cameras around Antarctica and the sub-Antarctic to help fill in the gaps and provide a year-round record of activity at multiple colonies. The idea is that by recording the timing of breeding, how long it takes to raise a chick and the survival of chicks, we can compare areas with high and low fishing, regions affected by climate change and high or low human activity. I approached the sixth form at Bedford School to see if

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technology students could help us to build a more standardised framework for this camera network, integrating renewable power supplies and better weather housing. Over a year and a half, a team of three (Robb Wright, Tom Marlow-Gilks and Grant Lawrence), inspired and motivated by Mr Waite, took on the challenge. They divided the project into three separate themes of power supply, stand and camera housing. They took the brief in many different ways and were truly innovative in their search for appropriate solutions to the cold, variable light and high winds. The final product, a functioning prototype, is one that you could hit with a hammer or put in the freezer and therefore stands a chance of surviving the harsh Antarctic winter. I’m delighted with the outcome and the chance to work with aspiring designers and engineers. I think we all found the collaboration stimulating; I got fresh ideas with a lot of ingenuity and they got a real world problem with a ‘client’ to deliver a product to. Over the next two years, I’ll be testing their design in Antarctica to see whether this is something that we can scale up to more units. Dr T. Hart (OB)

STUDENT ROBOTICS COMPETITION Six months. Six people. One robot Back in September 2013, when we first started preparing for this competition, it seemed to be quite a daunting challenge. None of us had ever attempted to design, build and programme our own robot. The rules were simple. We had to build and programme a robot that used a camera to navigate around an arena and collect boxes. After collecting a box, the robot then had to place it in a ‘slot’. The robot to get the most boxes in the slots in three minutes won the round. Our strategy was to keep the design as simple yet as effective as possible. We therefore decided that the robot would push the boxes into their slots using two plates attached to the front of the robot to guide the boxes into the position. We split our team into two groups, builders and programmers, with Mr Armstrong and Dr Wild helping each group respectively. We were given pre-manufactured electronic boards and batteries to control the robot but we bought our own motors and wheels. We made all the other components for the robot. Our ambition was to build a robust, lightweight and powerful robot and therefore we decided to make the entire robot body out of aluminium. It took us nearly five months to build! We faced many problems with safety clearances and size issues but we finally finished it. However, we were now only left with a month for programming and final testing. Our programming was the biggest challenge as we had little experience as a team with this. We programmed the camera to identify certain markers around the arena so that the robot could identify its position. The four motors for the wheels were programmed to work in tandem with the camera to go up to the boxes to collect them and then drop them off. However, we had reliability issues with the camera, as it was not always able to identify the markers correctly. Nonetheless, competition day arrived and we gave it our best shot. In most of our rounds we were able to identify one box, correctly put it in a slot and be placed second or third in that round. However, whenever the robot tried to identify another box, it failed to do so due to the issues with the camera and

hence that prevented us from moving forward in the competition even after tweaking the programming. Overall, it was an eye-opening experience, as we were able to witness some great ideas in the competition and be able to see first hand how difficult it can be to make a robot. With some tweaks, we should be able to place much higher in the competition next year. The team was made up of Hustin Bhatt, Assankhan Amirov, Tom Zhang, Daniel Lin, Arthur Edmonds and Rio Rosano. Hustin Bhatt

ARKWRIGHT SCHOLARSHIP As one of the most prestigious scholarship schemes in the UK, Arkwright Engineering Scholarships are awarded to high-calibre students through a rigorous selection process. The scholarships support students through their A-levels, encouraging them to pursue engineering at university or through high-quality apprenticeships. This year, James Hughes was awarded an Arkwright Scholarship the benefits of which include a £600 financial award, access to mentoring about engineering and technical design through a partnership with STEMNET and other organisations, and enrichment opportunities, including industry-based engineering experience days, magazine subscriptions and technical lectures. Thanks go to Mr Holt who organised the student entry and interview preparation. I.B. Armstrong

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BEDFORD SCHOOL MEDICAL ASSOCIATION Building on last year’s momentum, the Bedford School Medical Association (BSMA) has continued to grow in success. The six-part lecture series saw speeches given by doctors from the top of their respective fields, attracting large numbers of prospective medics from our school and the girls’ school alike. The first speech of the year saw the return of OB Pierre Sinclair, who gave us an honest tale on life as a fourth-year medical student at Sheffield. The talk was a brilliant eye-opener; daunting myths were dispelled and all truths revealed. It also gave us the chance to have our questions answered by someone with invaluable first-hand experience. The next five lectures were based on a plethora of subjects, from Huntington’s disease to immunotherapy, the idea being to shed more light on areas that we only understand at face value. One of the highlights was a talk given by Dr Shar entitled ‘Prostate Cancer and Robotic Surgery’. Dr Shar explained exactly how the ‘Da Vinci Machine’ enabled him to perform keyhole surgery. He did so by narrating over an exclusive video captured from within a patient during an operation. The footage was incredible and a true testament to how far the medical profession has advanced in recent years. To the surprise of the audience, at the end of the lecture Dr Shar revealed surgery training equipment. This enabled the room of budding medics to exhibit (or not) their surgical potential. From surgical technique we moved on to surgical trials. Our finale came with Dr Alex Lyon from Imperial College giving a talk on a pioneering cardiac gene therapy trial that he was leading. He began by explaining the anatomy of heart failure and its damaging effect on the quality of life – a somewhat sobering listen. However, within a few slides, he had galvanised the audience as he revealed the mechanisms of gene therapy and the success stories of his trial. The lecture was well received and a great way to end the series. Furthermore, the BSMA held a formal debate: ‘This house believes euthanasia should be legal in the UK.’ As well as improving our ability to form cogent arguments, the debate also afforded us the opportunity to research and contemplate our beliefs on serious medical issues. The debate was battled fervently and showcased the oratory finesse and preparation of those involved. In addition, a few members of the lower sixth were able to organise a trip to the Royal Institution for the Friday night discourse lecture. The outing involved a trip to London with black tie as our attire. The evening was a huge success and we were fortunate to hear a leading geneticist talk about her subject. Naturally, many thanks to Mr Beale for his enthusiasm and for facilitating the lectures. Without his help the BSMA could not

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function. Credit is also due to John Fahmy and Will Reynolds for their arduous work as publicity officers. I wish Manahara Ratnayake the best of luck as he takes over as chairman of the BSMA this upcoming year. Joshua Wellington

MITRE CLUB This year has been a great one in the Mitre Club. Of course, many reports in this magazine start this way, but in this case the statement is entirely genuine. What made this year so great? Well, it all starts with our speakers: six very talented members of staff who give up their time to devise and present an hour’s speech on a topic of their choosing. Afterwards, they braved the food (and company) in the GDR as we discussed in more depth the issues arising from the talk or anything else of interest. Topics of conversation this year ranged from the merits of Breaking Bad to Winston Churchill and the evils of OCR. However, although they were enjoyable, these after-dinner chats were not what really made the club special. Perhaps, then, it was such a great year because of the frequently entertaining and always interesting lectures? We started with Mr Finch, who chose to speak about the existence of God. As far as I can remember, everyone clung to the beliefs they originally harboured at the start of the evening; perhaps it was a little ambitious to expect some kind of spiritual epiphany on the part of Bedford School boys at 5.30 pm on a Friday evening. Special thanks should also go to Mrs Markham, who kindly stepped in at the last moment due to the unforeseen departure of Mr Fleming, who talked to us about Athenian sexual ethics. Thanks also go to Mr Watson who rounded off the autumn term nicely with a talk on the theory behind mathematics (those of you who understood it will have to forgive me for not writing anything further on the subject). The new year brought with it three new speakers, each of whom contributed something unique to the knowledge of the attending audience. Mr Adams delivered a literary criticism talk based on the question ‘What does literature know?’, examining how much truth is contained within a literary text and if even the author was aware of it at the time of writing. Mr Marsh then gave us a potted biography of Stendhal (otherwise known as Henri Beyle) and his literary reception by such giants as Tolstoy and Camus: I shall never read War and Peace in the same way again! Miss Parcell then ended the year with a stunning talk on political liberalism, examining it from the Civil War through to the election of the coalition while making insightful comparisons with such philosophers as Hobbes, Locke, Mill and Rousseau along the way. All of this was very interesting, but it still didn’t explain why the year was so great. I think I have the answer in a quotation from Jowett, the somewhat legendary 19th century master of Balliol: ‘We have sought the truth; perhaps we have found it and learnt something. But have we had any fun?’ Well, I certainly had fun, and lots of it. Nick Chapman

DRAMA

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THE FARNDALE AVENUE HOUSING ESTATE TOWNSWOMEN’S GUILD DRAMATIC SOCIETY PRODUCTION OF MACBETH From 18th to 20th June, nine remove form students swapped cricket whites and school ties in favour of coiffured wigs and excessive blusher in order to perform The Farndale Avenue Housing Estate Townswomen’s Guild Dramatic Society Production of Macbeth. While the title may be a rather arduous and drawn-out affair, the play itself was quite the opposite in a hilarious send-up of an amateur show. This uproarious production had audiences laughing loudly as they watched Conrad Staroscik (complete with mauve twinset) depict chairperson Mrs Reece as ‘she’ attempted to stage a production of Macbeth in order to gain a place at the Welwyn Garden City Drama Finals. The Townswomen’s Dramatic Society find their efforts thwarted by a missing Lady Macbeth, poorly constructed scenery, forgotten lines and a series of accidents that see one witch wheelchair bound. The play-within-a-play was a marvellous mix of farce and clever comedy that made for a most

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memorable evening’s entertainment. Who will forget Thomas Liggins (playing Minne), weighed down by mascara, dancing across the stage? Or Jonathan Malindine (playing Thelma) compromising cues and forgetting lines? Or, indeed, Joshua Garrett (playing Henry the stagemanager) leaping to the rescue and donning a rather fetching meringue-of-a-dress to stand in for Lady Macbeth? As Macbeth culminates in a nineminute second half, thanks largely to the incredibly fast delivery of lines by the producer (Harry Guthrie), the production is perhaps not as successful as the ‘ladies’ had hoped for and it is left to elderly judge George Peach (played by Logan Jones), who has been watching from the side of the stage, to deliver the final verdict. Any audience watching the townswomen’s production of Macbeth would have left demanding a refund. Audiences of the Bedford School production, however, left demanding an encore. A.M.P. Garrett

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DNA After the success of his production of Chatroom by Edna Walsh, Matthew Gouldesborough returned to the Bedford School stage to direct a production of Dennis Kelly’s thought-provoking play DNA. The production was put on by Bedford School boys in conjunction with girls and boys from Bedford Girls’ School and Biddenham Upper School. The plot revolves around a group of teenagers who are involved in a practical joke which goes horribly wrong. The central character is the silent but complex Phil, played by Gouldesborough himself. The cast did a wonderful job with a dark and difficult script, with the Head Master announcing in final assembly that it was the best production he had seen put on by a school cast in his entire teaching career. As a member of the outgoing upper sixth, this was the last production that Matthew will put on at Bedford School. We thank him for his fantastic contribution to drama at Bedford School and wish him the best of luck in his future career. E.E. Murray

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DOM JUAN Once more, Colin Marsh and the French Society of Bedford School and Bedford Girls’ School managed to present an outstanding production. This year we were treated to Moli ere’s ` Dom Juan: a highly entertaining version of the life of the great seducer and delightful in the ambiguous nature of the central character. For all his faults, it is difficult not to admire Moli ere’s ` Dom Juan. And it was difficult not to admire Eddy Arbe-Barnes’ portrayal of the eponymous role. His performance was clear, confident, multi-faceted and often delightfully understated. He was ably supported by Harry Jackson, who played Dom Juan’s long-suffering and cringingly cowardly servant. Robin Hampshire developed a certain linguistic authenticity in his cameo role as the father, Dom Louis. Of the younger boys, Jasper Lawson in particular, rose to the challenge of his role. Beyond that, I am not prepared to single anybody out apart from John Hunt, who played the part of the statue (which was pure genius). All the boys and girls performed admirably; there were no weak links and many excelled, demonstrating intelligent interpretation of what was obviously strong direction. Colin Marsh, in conjunction with James Pharaoh, produced an outstanding set design, which was beautiful in its simplicity and highly effective. All was very easy on the eye and complemented the excellent performances. Within the black box, the set comprised three white vertical screens onto which moving video was projected to simulate scene changes. Waves rolled onto the beach, water rippled on the garden pond and leaves fluttered in the breeze. Video sequencing was used to create a spectacular effect of darts flying through the air and impaling the portrait of Dom Juan’s father. The final special effect was that of a raging inferno which mixed powerful images with terrifying sound effects, thus presaging Dom Juan’s doom. As I said at the outset, it was an outstanding production: a visual and aural feast packed with strong performances and ingenious effects. And all in a foreign language. We are not worthy. S.B. Swidenbank

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Grease In March Bedford School staged the classic 1950s-set musical, Grease. The production was full of energy and it was clear that everyone on stage was having a good time, so naturally we in the audience did, too. It was easy to give ourselves over to the story being told on stage, because from the first moment to the last, the connection between the performers was immediately apparent; the entire cast established a truthful, vibrant world and drew us in. The whole cast worked hard to ensure that every laugh and every moment of pathos was delivered with clarity and that it hit the mark. The scene where the gang are hanging out at Rizzo’s house, listening to records and bantering with each other, stands out as a moment that perfectly captured the tender awkwardness of being a ‘teenager in love’. Each actor committed totally to their character’s story and this helped link the quieter, more thoughtprovoking scenes with the larger, more raucous moments of the evening. What the actors did so well was to tell a clear story, and in doing so avoided presenting a series of grand musical

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numbers, interrupted by moments of acting (as can so often happen in school musical productions). This ensured that director Sarah Swidenbank’s production of the play was greater than the sum of its parts. The cast were expertly aided by the production team, who ensured that the various elements of lighting, sound and design blended seamlessly with the storytelling, lending the plot just the right tone and atmosphere. Full credit should be paid to musical director Thom Rooke and his band, and to technical director James Pharaoh and his team; they really achieved what is so often overlooked as an obvious task in a production: to be unobtrusive while at the same time being totally prevalent. Each new song built on the previous number and the residue of the catchy tunes hung in the air for long moments afterwards. I apreciated the decision to place the band right in among the audience; this may have been done out of necessity, but the effect was immersive; at times it felt as though we were part of

the scene being played out. The dance-off number in the school gym worked particularly well in this setting, with the velvety tones of Jack Harvey’s Vince Fontaine directly serenading those sitting in and around him. To support the fast-paced nature of the production, lighting and set changes merged seamlessly, establishing different locations and creating atmosphere in a matter of moments. Each new transition signified the location and mood simply and effectively, giving the actors the right canvas on which to project their various individual stories. Sam Assim as Danny Zuko was the perfect leading man. Tall, dark and handsome, Sam subtly revealed a number of angles to the lovable rogue, Zuko, that ensured the audience was rooting for him from the outset; not an easy thing to achieve given the high profile of the role. Too often, young actors can imitate the performances of others, but in Danny Zuko, Sam found his own rhythms and made the part his own. All Alone at a Drive-In Movie and Summer Nights stood out for their honesty and sense of purpose. Emma Hooker as Sandy and Bea Caldwell as Rizzo blended perfectly with the male leads, giving the effect of a genuinely tight-knit group. Both young ladies imbued their roles with total honesty and sang with such skill and a sense of purpose that the classic numbers Hopelessly Devoted and There Are Worse Things I Could Do were elevated to such a level that they were an absolute joy to listen to. These two songs, in particular, so

clearly captured the angst and uncertainty both characters experience through the course of the story. The leads were ably supported by a cast of colourful character actors and Matthew Gouldesborough should be highly commended for his performance as Kenickie. This is a difficult role, often overplayed, often caricatured, but I found Matthew compellingly real and compellingly comical in equal measure. His face alone displays a carousel of varied emotions and watching him contort from rejection, to confusion, to hope was genuinely funny. The perfect counterbalance to Matthew’s anarchic Kenickie was Archie Rush as Doody. Channelling the ‘Fonz’ from Happy Days, Archie’s solo number Those Magic Changes revealed insouciance only partly hinted at around the school estate and he played the part with understated honesty. Overall, the production swept me up with its good humour and high energy. We were all tapping our feet in the aisles to well-known classics sung with conviction and understanding, enthralled by the spectacle on stage. The night I went, I sat among young boarders from Eagle House and it is a true testament to the cast that each boy was transfixed, their eyes gleaming with a joy that comes only when one is experiencing something that unexpectedly takes us out of ourselves; a thoroughly enjoyable evening at the theatre. J.C. Hooley

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HOUSE DRAMA COMPETITION Ashburnham

‘Body Shop’ by Matthew Gouldesbrough Directed by Matthew Gouldesbrough A look at the fast and dangerous world of black market moisturising cream … boundaries will be broken, beliefs will be challenged. Things are going to get moist. Cast: Alastair Ackroyd, Edward ArbeBarnes, Tom Backhouse, Cian Brittle, Cory Bloxham, Matthew Gouldesbrough, Daniel Holdsworth, Billy Kong, Jasper Lawson, Max Lawson, Thomas Liggins, Vincenzo Lombardo, Oliver Maltby, Milan Nakum, Alexander Roese and James Smith

Bromham

‘Murder, He Yelped’ by Stanisław Brami´ nski Directed by Stanisław Brami´ nski and Touwa Dunn The butchery of Berkoff, the flaying of Frisch, and the slaughtering of Shakespeare are things familiar to the Bedford School stage. but the school theatre a scene for murder? Actual murder? Heavens! And on the night before house drama! What will happen to some near-atthe-time innocent sixth formers – Peter, John and James – should the PTA hear of it?! Cast: Stanisław Brami´ nski, Thomas Caldon, Ollie Charlton, Chizu Chuckwu, Touwa Dunn, Jordan Legg, Oliver McLeod and Ben Spencer

Crescent

‘A Big Misunderstanding’ by Sam Assim and Callum Logan Directed by Sam Assim An innocent group of guys find themselves tangled in a drugsmuggling operation. The four of them are split up and a magnificent rescue attempt must be executed, together with a capable police team, to save their friends from a ruthless Mafia don and his henchmen. Cast: Ross Cawood, Steven Fahmy, Felix Hill, Callum Logan, Jonathan Malandine, Rukudzo Msindo, Conrad Staroscik, Angus Watson and Jasper Williamson

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Paulo Pontine ‘Janitor’ and ‘Ages of Man’ Two sketches adapted for house drama by Marcus Eames. Cast: Tristan Brown, Marcus Eames, Daniel Gardner and Joshua Garrett

St Cuthbert’s ‘The Bodmin Parable’ by Jacob King and Tristan Perkins Directed by Jacob King and Tristan Perkins The news of a beautiful sculpture calls four wealthy individuals toward Cornwall; the sole goal is to intercept the statue from the local smugglers. this proves more difficult than expected, especially when the news of a deadly sea creature is all that greets them. Cast: George Andrews, Alex Benzie, Olly Bowes, George Christian, Daniel Hickey, Ben Howard, Duncan Johnston, Jacob King, Frank Kupshik, Felix Lin, Charles Mills, Tristan Perkins, Ben Whitelaw and Andrew Zhu

St Peter’s ‘Keremy Jyle and Dogfish’ by James Herriott Inspired by Alexander Horn Directed by: Sebastian Clements, Karan Gupta and James Herriott Cast: Syed Ali, Jacob Barclay, Hustin Bhatt, Matt Burlison, Matthew Cannon, Seb Clements, Sean Davies, Karan Gupta, Robin Hampshire, Dominic Hart, James Herriott,Robert Holden, Ed Jones, George LilleyMoncrieff, Arandeep Malhi, Aaron McNally, Ben Nethersole, Peter Ramsbotham, James Skirrow, Jacob Stephenson, Bob Song, Henry Walsh and Oliver Wetton

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MUSIC

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Music at Bedford School has had another exciting year with a combination of excellent traditional musicmaking and exciting and ground-breaking first performances. The highlight for me would have to be the premiere of Harvey Brough’s The Pilgrim’s Progress, a choral cantata for chorus, nine vocal soloists and orchestra. I was delighted that the Bedford School Trust was able to support this commission, and for Bedford School to be responsible for funding this latest interpretation of the classic Bunyan tale. For me, it epitomised everything that is good about music at the school – there was a willingness to try things new, a real spirit of collaboration and a sense on the night that we were all participating in a landmark occasion, in conjunction with the Bedford Girls’ School and Pilgrims Pre-Preparatory School. I hope you enjoy reading about our activities this year. J.M. Sanders

CHORAL SOCIETY CONCERT ‘THE PILGRIM’S PROGRESS’ Sunday 23rd March 2014 witnessed a significant cultural event: the world premiere of a specially commissioned musical setting of one of the greatest classics of world literature, Harvey Brough’s composition of John Bunyan’s famous allegorical tale of Christian’s journey from the City of Destruction to the Celestial City. It was performed at the annual Bedford School Choral Society Concert in the Great Hall. Bunyan himself, of course, was born in Harrowden and lived most of his life in Bedford, where he was imprisoned for 12 years for unauthorised preaching. It was while he was detained in the town gaol that he wrote his great masterpiece, estimated to be, after the Bible, the world’s highest-selling book. Composer Harvey Brough, a classically trained musician who also happens to be a successful rock and blues performer – Harvey of ‘Harvey and the Wallbangers’ – was invited by the school’s Director of Music, Joss Sanders, to write a full-scale piece to retell Bunyan’s story in music and song specially for the occasion. Apart from Ralph Vaughan Williams’s setting of it, there is nothing comparable. As Mr Sanders puts it, ‘For classical

music to survive and thrive, it needs to be willing to embrace contemporary cultural forms’. Harvey Brough uniquely combines the two, and successfully achieved a fusion of classical and contemporary expression. The Pilgrim’s Progress itself is a classic of English literature, dating from the 17th century, but Brough’s translation of the tale into contemporary classical music was wonderfully sympathetic to it, with its various characters and changes of scene and mood. The message of Bunyan’s tale

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ST CECILIA’S DAY CONCERT

was reflected well in a powerful and moving performance. The music was deliberately written to be accessible and easy to learn, because its performance included a large number of children of almost all ages. Not one, but two choirs were involved – one of teenage voices from Bedford School and Bedford Girls’ School, and the other of younger children from Bedford Preparatory School, Bedford Girls’ Junior School and Pilgrims Pre-Preparatory School. The children’s voices, in particular, had a strong dramatic effect, most notably in scenes where Christian is torn between his family and the quest upon which he knows he must embark. The haunting pathos of ‘stay, father, stay’, in soft tones suggestive of innocence and vulnerability, was unforgettable. The orchestra comprised both pupils and adults, providing for the former a valuable experience of rehearsing and performing alongside experienced players. Instrumental parts were written especially to enable various boys to make their own individual contributions to the overall performance. The two choirs contrasted with, and complemented, each other remarkably well, and were woven together with nine soloists – eight character parts, and a narrator – who rarely sang alone, but harmonised with one another to create an effect rather like that of the chorus in ancient Greek drama. The soloists were provided by VOCES8, a celebrated and very experienced group of professional singers. In a similar way to Bach’s use in the St Matthew Passion of a string ‘halo of sound’ to accompany the solos of Jesus, Harvey Brough used the combined solo voices to create the same effect accompanying and guiding Christian as he makes his way through his journey ‘from this world to that which is to come’. The Great Hall was packed full for the occasion, with the high number of performers and a large, appreciative audience, and the wider than usual age range of those involved made it a superb opportunity to celebrate music, literature and, because of the subject matter, religious belief. We are particularly grateful to Bedford School Trust for making it possible to commission this unique work. Revd Shaun Atkins

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The first large-scale concert of the new academic year is often a crucible experience – as a director of an ensemble, you just don’t know whether everything is going to ‘come good’ in time for the performance which is relatively early on in the year. Often there is quite an exodus at the top of the school and new boy leaders have to settle into their new roles of responsibility. This year was true to form, but overall justice was done, and well done, to all of the efforts put in by both boys and staff. The brass ensemble, directed by Guy Bennett, started the proceedings with an enjoyable and bubbly piece called Champagne by Goff Richards, from a suite of pieces interestingly entitled Homage to the Noble Grape … ! This was followed by the second orchestra, directed by Jeremy Rouse, which gave a spirited performance of movements from Handel’s Music for the Royal Fireworks. We then had a new ensemble giving its first performance. The percussion ensemble, ably led by our percussion teacher, Chris Ridley, OB, gave an exciting and varied performance of a piece called Crossfire by Alex Neal, exhibiting almost every single piece of percussion available! The last musical offering before the interval was given by the dance band, directed by Malcolm Green, which took us through some interesting jazz standards which were ‘off the beaten track’ of

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the most well-known classics: Big Noise from Winnetka (Haggard/Bauduc), Whirly Bird (Hefti) and Love is like a Heatwave (Holland). The massed forces of the school band, directed by Guy Bennett, took the stage after the interval and presented a delightful series of pieces by Eric Coates, concluding with his most famous work, the Dam Buster’s March. It is always heartwarming to see almost every woodwind and brass pupil in the whole of the Upper School performing together in this group. This was followed by the chamber orchestra, directed by Martin Hughes, which played movements from Holst’s St Paul’s Suite. There was spirited playing here, and a suitable conflagration in the final movement where the Dargason Folk Tune meets Greensleeves head on in counterpoint. The final ensemble to the stage was the first orchestra, directed by Joss Sanders, which gave a performance of Elgar’s In the South overture. This early work showed all of the hallmarks of the Elgar to come, and the orchestra did justice to this youthful exuberance as they communicated the Italianate summer of Elgar’s music. The retiring collection was shared between Bedford and District Cerebral Palsy Society and the school’s musical instrument fund. J.M. Sanders

FIRST ORCHESTRA CONCERT The annual first orchestra and chamber orchestra concert took place in the Great Hall on 4th July 2014, the culmination of a week-long series of summer concerts. The line-up was impressive; the fact that the school’s two leading orchestral ensembles were able to produce a full-length programme comprising, as is traditional, an overture, concerto and symphony was an achievement in itself. That each of the performances was delivered to such a high standard and with such musicality made for a most enjoyable and enriching evening. The concert opened with the first orchestra, led by William Wright, performing Weber’s Overture to ‘Oberon’, a work premiered at Covent Garden in 1826. The beautiful slow introduction, overlaid by an evocative horn solo, was executed with great poise by the orchestra, under the direction of Joss Sanders. But the orchestra seemed equally at home with the more boisterous allegro, with the strings executing their scampering semiquaver passages with great aplomb. The chamber orchestra took to the stage next with a truly memorable performance of Haydn’s Trumpet Concerto in E flat

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major with soloist Luke Wilson (upper sixth). As well as being Luke’s final school performance before leaving for university, this was also the last time retiring Head of Strings, Martin Hughes, directed the chamber orchestra after many years of sterling service. The thrillingly accomplished and detailed performance was a tribute to both musicians’ talents, as well as providing a platform for the whole chamber orchestra to shine. Luke’s controlled and highly musical interpretation of this trumpet classic was a real treat; his mellifluous tone and steady control of musical line allowed him to present a hugely impressive account which was, rightly, received very warmly by the large and appreciative audience. The concert concluded with Dvorák’s Symphony No 8. One of the orchestral repertoire’s best-known works, this was a challenging piece which the boys delivered with confidence and accuracy. Under the careful direction of Mr Sanders, the wistful opening minor melody on the cellos set the tone for the performance which was to follow, before the music modulated into the tonic proper with a dazzling conclusion to the first movement. The woodwinds demonstrated skill in their lighthearted passages in the second movement, with the whole orchestra successfully conveying the waltz rhythms of the third movement which rose to a frantic duple-metre conclusion. The evening’s entertainment was brought to a stunning close in the fourth movement, featuring raucous horn fanfares and an exuberant flute solo. A.G. Tighe

THE SECOND ORCHESTRA CONCERT This concert took place just before the summer holidays. As I entered the Great Hall I felt an atmosphere of excitement; next to me was a proud parent who couldn’t wait to see their child perform. The orchestra entered and the audience greeted leader Oliver McCormack with great applause. The Music for the Royal Fireworks set the concert off to a great start, showing the second orchestra’s ensemble skills. This famous piece of music by Handel was a fittingly grand opening for the afternoon’s music-making. During the concert the various

junior prize winners had a chance to perform solos. One particularly memorable performance was Grieg’s The Butterfly played by Jason George, the winner of the junior piano prize. When the winner of the junior singing prize, Logan Jones, sang Stephen Sondheim’s Being Alive the whole audience was mesmerised. His rich voice filled the Great Hall and it felt at one point as though the chairs were vibrating! The orchestra played Saint-Saëns’s Danse Macabre very enthusiastically; it is a very challenging piece and their performance had merit. The ensemble was good, especially in the faster sections. There were a couple of interesting special performance techniques used, for example using the wood of the bow instead of the horsehair, which came across well. Thomas Chen performed beautifully on the cello, playing two of Schumann’s Fantasy pieces. He really brought out the lilting melodies very well. Probably one of the best performances I’ve ever heard was Nathaniel Conte playing Toccata from Boellmann’s Suite Gothique on the organ. The passion with which he played this piece left the audience very impressed. The final orchestral piece, Pomp and Circumstance March No 1 by Elgar, is of course a classic of English music. The orchestra managed to play it with gusto, providing a grand and memorable ending to the concert. Natanel Gottlieb

FAREWELL CONCERT FOR MARTIN HUGHES The Chapel was the venue for a farewell concert for Martin Hughes and was given by VOCES8, the consort choir and the school chamber orchestra. Ah! Mr Handel’s tune! Music can evoke a variety of memories and for this writer, at least, this tune probably marked the start of his enduring love of classical music. Those of you who might remember the ‘Light Programme’ (now Radio 2) may recall a short programme broadcast at 9.55 am, called (not surprisingly) Five to Ten and which might have been the forerunner of today’s Thought for the Day. The signature tune was music by Handel –

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the third movement of the last of his twelve Concerti Grossi, Op 6 – arguably the finest set of this genre. The whole of this Concerto Grosso opened the concert. Kevin Chan and William Wright (violins) and Bryan Lung (violoncello), playing the concertino parts, gave a gentle response to the orchestra’s declamatory opening of the concerto. The second movement Allegro was despatched energetically, preparing the way for that famous tune of Mr Handel in the third movement, Aria, marked larghetto e piano. Well-known it certainly is, but it has an easyflowing and beautiful simplicity that sits easily and memorably on the ear. The penultimate Largo displayed some uneasy harmonies in the minor, before finishing with a bright fugue. The evening’s conductor, Martin Hughes, encouraged all the players to show their best sides and to bring out all the qualities one expects of such a work. Then, in contrast, the consort choir, directed by Jeremy Rouse, sang Tavener’s setting of William Blake’s poem, The Lamb, which was followed by another piece with an ovine subject – Little Innocent Lamb – in an arrangement by Bartholomew of a traditional melody. The concluding work in the first half of the concert was a performance of Bach’s Double Violin Concerto given by Cristian Grajner De Sa, OB (violino concertato I), and Alex Collins, OB (violino concertato II). If the orchestra made a very uncertain start in the opening bars, the soloists were quite unruffled and proceeded to deliver a performance of virtuosity, tenderness and feeling. The interplay between the two soloists showed subtlety and an understanding that allowed the music to flow – particularly in the slow movement where the two violins are intertwined as if in an operatic duet. A brisk rendering of the final Allegro brought the concerto to a thrilling close. After this brilliance, an encore was definitely the order of the day and very generously we were given a repeat of the entire first movement – not least to show

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that the orchestra were definitely back on the rails! Brilliant! After the interval, one of the most exciting and versatile vocal groups in the world, VOCES8, gave, by turns, considered, beautiful, inspiring and thoroughly enjoyable performances of five very contrasting pieces. Giovanni Gabrieli’s Jubilate Deo was followed by Rachmaninov’s Bogoroditse Devo (making a very deep impression), after which there was a complete change of atmosphere and mood. An arrangement of music from two James Bond films led into Jailhouse Rock (Elvis Presley) and finally to Duke Ellington’s It Don’t Mean a Thing. Perhaps the Chapel had never heard anything like it before! The concert concluded with all the performers coming together for a rousing performance of the most familiar of Handel’s Coronation Anthems: Zadok the Priest; yet more wonderful tunes from Mr Handel, such that no one present could fail to have been moved and inspired. A big thank you to all who took part, but especially to Martin for 11 years of inspirational teaching and music-making at Bedford School. Enjoy your retirement! B. Johnson

SCHOOL BANDS CONCERT Cometh July, cometh the Bands Concert and, as in previous years, it did not disappoint, although the audience was rather thin on the ground. Those present know what the others missed – the quality of the music-making was of the customary very high standard. The brass ensemble, directed from the tuba by Guy Bennett, opened the proceedings with two pieces attributed to King Henry VIII: Pastime with Good Company (which is exactly what we in the audience were doing!) was suitably stately and courtly in nature and was followed by the very familiar Greensleeves. The trumpet introduction hints at the well-known tune, but it was left

to the horns to give the famous melody in full. A suite by Susato – another 16th century composer – provided dance music which seemed vaguely familiar, prompting one to ask the question ‘Now where have I heard that before?’ Moving forward to the 20th century, Luke Wilson (trumpet) negotiated well the fast-moving melody of the Mexican Hat Dance. The ensemble concluded with a rendition of The Charleston, which was played with confidence and obvious enjoyment … but where were the flappers?! The school percussion ensemble, under the baton of Chris Ridley, proved to be a welcome addition to the concert. The opening piece, Classicle by Freytag, allowed all the members of the group to show off their particular instruments to good effect. It is a fun piece and challenges the audience to spot the famous tunes within – snippets of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony, Eine Kleine Nachtmusik (Mozart), Rossini’s Overture to William Tell, the Hallelujah Chorus by Handel, Mars from Holst’s Planets Suite and Vivaldi’s Four Seasons were definitely heard – but there were probably more that went undetected! Scott Joplin’s The Entertainer, in an arrangement for xylophone by Freytag, allowed Harry Jackson to show off his undoubted talents (and why not?) accompanied in a rather unusual way by the rest of the percussion. The final piece was a Fanfare for Tambourines, which showed that there is far more to playing a tambourine than simply bashing it! It can be played by the side, in the air, inside out and upside down. With a drum providing the rhythm, this curious piece certainly did not outstay its welcome. The school dance band, directed from the saxophone by Malcolm Green, played nine pieces either side of the Interval. Glen Miller’s In the Mood was followed by Ain’t Misbehavin’ (Waller and Brooks) and then W.C. Handy’s St Louis Blues, which was notable for the contributions of Ben Anstis (trumpet) and Jim Cooper (trombone). Fly Me to the Moon (Howard) concluded the first half of the concert and reminded all of Ol’ Blue Eyes himself. The first two pieces after the Interval (Basin St Blues [Williams] and On Broadway [Stoller and Lieber]) had significant parts for Luke Wilson and Jim Cooper, while in Big Spender (Coleman), George LilleyMoncrieff on piano came into his own. Heatwave (Holland, Holland and Dozier) provided another vehicle for Luke Wilson to display his talent and this piece made way for the final number, Loveshack (B52s). Great entertainment from a very talented group of players. The school band, under the baton of Guy Bennett, concluded the concert with more music of a regal nature, but now reflecting the imperial splendour of the time when it was written (late 1880s) rather that the period in which Gilbert and Sullivan’s The Yeomen of the Guard is set – the 16th century … back where we started! The overture to this opera was delivered with appropriate gravitas and dignity as befits Beefeaters! Sir Malcolm Arnold’s Little Suite for Brass was given here in an arrangement by Paynter for wind band and the three movements: Prelude, Siciliano and Rondo brought the concert to a joyous end, containing, as they do, tuneful and folk-like melodies in the great British brass-band tradition established by Holst and Vaughan Williams – to whom we must be ever grateful for preserving the tradition of English folk melodies for all to enjoy. After last year’s performance of Holst’s E flat Suite, what about R.V.W.’s English Folk Song Suite next year? Now there’s a thought!

An encore of the Rondo was most welcome. Bravo! Thank you to all who took part and particularly to those for whom this was their last concert, especially Luke Wilson (head of the dance band and the school band) who has by turns made valuable contributions to the overall musical life of the school as well as at those solemn Acts of Remembrance each year, playing the ‘Last Post’ and ‘Reveille’. B. Johnson

PRIZE WINNERS’ CONCERT AND MUSIC ON THE LAWN The end of the summer term is always a busy time for the musicians, and this year lived up to expectations! The prize winners’ concert was held on Friday 27th June, featuring four boys sharing five prizes. First, we were treated to a nicely contrasted programme of piano music by Jim Cooper, winner of the Tagore piano prize. He showed his talents at interpreting the dryness of Domenico Scarlatti, the drama of an early Beethoven sonata, and the lushness of part of Debussy’s Suite Bergamasque. This was followed by the winner of the

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Crossman brass prize, Sean Davies, playing the French horn. Repertoire options for the French horn are more limited than many other instruments, but Sean selected some of his favourites which also went down well with the audience. He started with the slow movement of Mozart’s 2nd Concerto in E flat major, and concluded his recital with Franz Strauss’s (son of Richard) beautiful Nocturno. Edward Wilson was next and, as the Osborn singing prize winner, gave a selection of pieces from Butterworth’s song cycle A Shropshire Lad. In the anniversary year of the start of the First World War, these songs painted a chilling picture of a world about to plunge into the most bloody of conflicts. Ed did extremely well and communicated his texts with aplomb. After the interval the audience moved into the Chapel to hear Jim Cooper perform again, this time as winner of the Godber organ prize. Jim presented another nicely contrasted programme of Bach, Boellmann and Peters. All three pieces are influenced by interweaving contrapuntal ideas, which resonate with the gothic style of architecture which is often present in the buildings in which these pieces are performed. Jim is increasingly confident in his organ playing and this promises well for the future! The concert concluded with Artem Skulimovskiy, winner of the Langley string prize, presenting pieces by Bloch and Franck. Both pieces presented significant technical challenges, but Artem rose to the occasion and performed with style and panache. We were grateful, as ever, to our Head of Piano, Rob Thompson, for his subtle, intuitive and immensely musical accompanying throughout the concert. Two days later, on Sunday 29th June, we had hoped (and prayed) for good weather, for the Music on the Lawn event. The weather forecast promised well, but unfortunately the day did not deliver, in terms of weather, and we had a typically English overcast and drizzly afternoon. This meant that Music on the Lawn had to be turned into Music in the Great Hall. Parents, friends and neighbours enjoyed some complimentary strawberries and sparkling wine to the accompaniment of music by the brass ensemble and dance band. The audience were also treated to the latest new ensemble at the school: the improvising group. This has been run by our jazz piano teacher, Mrs Nikki Iles, who has an impressive reputation as a jazz musician. We are incredibly grateful to her for working with the boys in developing a basic understanding of improvisation, and it was clear that the boys were responding well to this new discipline. The weather didn’t dampen our spirits and a good time was had by all! J.M. Sanders

NEW MUSIC SOCIETY CONCERT The New Music Society concert provided an opportunity for the school’s budding composers to realise their creative endeavours in the recital hall in front of a supportive audience. The original works exhibited the blend of traditional music education that many of the boys have been grounded in, together with the experimental, avant garde and electronic. The president of the society, Michal Dzitko, organised this concert to represent school composers in its debut year. The performances began with Olly Bowes’ Memoirs of an

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Infantry Officer which he sang himself, accompanied by Mr Thompson. This work demonstrated his ability to write strong and challenging melodies against difficult accompaniments which strayed from the traditional with its rich harmony and sense of bi-tonality. His performance captivated the audience with a great sense of emotion and intensity. This was followed by Bowes’s Sarabanda which was performed by Peter Wood on the oboe. Michal Dzitko featured four original compositions in this concert. He began with Silent Pique for Piano Quartet followed by the avant garde performance on the piano of Downtime, which was reminiscent of David Tudor performances of John Cage works. The penultimate piece moved the audience over to the Chapel for Dzitko’s Bokeh, a transcendental minimalist work for organ which was performed emphatically by Mr Rouse (see photograph). Dzitko’s final piece involved a live electronic sampled piece GupStep which was performed on a laptop, taking the great assembly tradition of ‘Gentlemen, quiet please!’ sampled and defragmented into dubstep with great technical precision, demonstrating Dzitko’s versatile creativity and musical sense of humour. The Head Master particularly enjoyed Edward Wilson’s piece for a string quartet in the baroque style of Haydn. There were several other notable works in this style from the GCSE music students: an exemplary performance of Jim Cooper’s String Quartet, Jeffrey Poon’s performance of his Happy Ternary Piece on the violin and also Mr Thompson’s virtuoso performance of Zory Davoyan’s Waltz for solo piano in the style of Chopin. All in all, a fantastic night that showed off the talent and musical diversity of our school composers. T.P. Rooke

THE CHAPEL CHOIR TOUR

The Chapel Choir sang daily services at Gloucester Cathedral from Wednesday 20th to Sunday 24th August 2014. Many visitors commented on the excellent quality of the singing, including a number of Old Bedfordians who enjoyed a reception nearby before coming to Evensong on the Saturday

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HOUSE SINGING The house singing competition is the most hotly contested inter-house competition I have ever come across. The boys take it extremely seriously and it is a credit to their determination to succeed that the final performances are so polished. Our visiting adjudicator, Julian Wilkins, came to us from his day job directing the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra Chorus. Mr Wilkins had adjudicated the Prep School house singing competition the previous year, but I think that even that visit had not prepared him for the maelstrom that was the Great Hall that memorable night in October 2013. I have enjoyed visiting the boarding houses to observe and support the boys as they prepare for their unison songs. House singing is not just about developing good singing skills. It is much more than that. Boys work together (without a huge amount of adult interference) and become a unified group. There are the ‘highs’ and ‘lows’ of the preparation process, and the inevitable cross words and feelings of

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despair when things don’t go right. The daily grind of rehearsals is hard work, and yet the boys have a tremendous sense of drive and devotion to it. It is wonderful to behold. However, the one thing that impresses me most is that almost to a man, the boys are prepared to step outside their ‘comfort zone’ and take risks. This is such an important life skill and one which they learn in buckets in house singing. And then there are the part songs which tend to be populated by a mixture of boarders and day boys. Each house is looking for that perfect combination of a good song, a good arrangement and a suitable assortment of voices. For some this is easier than for others. Particular mention should also be made of houses who supply their own boy pianists, who take on the hugely challenging role of accompanying the unison songs. The six houses took their turn, with the winning house from the previous year (Ashburnham) going first. Each house presented a medley of unison songs, performed by the whole

complement of each boarding house: Sanderson’s (New York), Burnaby (Daft Punk/The Turtles), Redburn (Beatles), Pemberley (Bublé) and Talbot’s (Lion King). There was real discipline exhibited by many, and a real attention to good unison singing, with contrasts of dynamic and tone in some cases. Each house followed their unison songs with their part song: Ashburnham (California Dreamin’ ), Bromham (Gaudete), Paulo Pontine (I’m Yours), St Cuthbert’s (Amazing Love), Crescent (Somebody I Used to Know ) and St Peter’s (Hide and Seek ). Again, there was a real variety of tone and texture demonstrated with some very polished performances. Mr Wilkins had a very hard decision to make, but finally came down on a clean sweep for Paulo Pontine (Redburn). Luke Wilson, who directed the Paulo unison and part song said, ’Winning house singing is one of those moments that the boys will remember for a very long time. It was great to finally break Redburn’s house singing duck!’ J.M. Sanders

ROCK NIGHT 12th February 2014 Rock Night is regarded by many as one of the most entertaining musical events of the year and I believe that this year was no exception. It is an event that gives the pupils, or ex-pupils, of the Harper Trust schools a chance to show their musical abilities. It is held at Bedford School in the recital hall. This year, musicians of ages ranging from 13 to 19 played music from a wide range of genres that created a fantastic atmosphere. It was kindly organised by Mr Rooke and Will Wright, with many volunteers assisting to ensure the night ran smoothly and was fun for both the performers and the crowd! The night kicked off at 7.30 pm, when the opening act, Jasper Williamson, performed a cover of Birdy’s Skinny Love, which set the bar high for the rest of the night. Fortunately, the standard did not waver, as the girls from BGS got everyone cheering. There was a notable performance from year 10 girls, Sarah Lee, Izzy Kane and Emily Carter, who surprised everyone with their mash up of Smells Like Teen Spirit by Nirvana and Billie Jean by Michael Jackson. Two songs that you would not ordinarily think would go together but, nevertheless, they made it work, and it was fantastic. Another notable act was the group Burn the Stereo, whose lead guitarist managed to perfect the guitar rift on his electric guitar from Sweet Child of Mine by Guns N’ Roses. It was a performance that demonstrated why the evening was called ‘Rock’ Night! However, the highlight of the night came from Alex Early, an Old Bedfordian who left in 2013. He gave two fantastic performances: Get Lucky by Daft Punk and Of the Night by Bastille, which left the crowd wanting more. So, at the end of the night, he gladly obliged as he followed up with an encore of a fantastic rendition of Blurred Lines by Robin Thicke. His ability to change pitch as he sang was rewarded by the crowd with ecstatic cheers, screams and claps. It was as good as, if not better than, the original! Rock Night is a special event as it brings people together from all ages each year in order to showcase the talent that we possess, as a community, in the field of music. There is just something so magnificent about being able to watch your school friends perform their hearts out. Truly a night to remember. James Herriott

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BIOLOGY EXPEDITION TO CUBA 3RD–18th July 2014

There had been enormous amounts of preparation in the build-up to this expedition, ranging from preliminary dive training to crucial injections and (of course) repeated `nagging’ from staff for us to finish the necessary paperwork on time. We did all manage this on time, even though Ben Smith handed in his last form as we got on the coach and Leo Dzwizisch needed the German embassy to issue an emergency diplomat’s passport (who does his dad know?!) on the morning of the flight, turning up 20 minutes before we were called to the departure gate! The majority of the group began their PADI open-water dive training with Mr Beale over exeat weekend, months before we set off, in order to be more competent once we were out in Cuba. This entailed several days’ worth of training compacted into one day, as well as a safety exam and a theory paper (with a 90 per cent pass mark). It was tough but we all passed comfortably and were ready. Once all our bags were packed (we all received a very smart, personalised kitbag) we headed off to school to meet up with everyone else, grab our expedition shirt and drag ourselves onto the coach to Gatwick Airport. After several hours and a slight delay in flight time, we landed in Havana, a temporary stop but one that we would take full advantage of. We spent the first night in central Havana. Upon arrival at the ‘hotel’ (which we suspect usually rents rooms by the hour, but it was clean enough to sleep in), we dropped our bags off in the room, and got ready to go out to dinner in the centre of town. Miss Swallow (who had organised the entire trip and somehow wasn’t driven mad) had booked us into a seafood restaurant specialising in lobster. After delicious platters of lobster and other Cuban foods, washed

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down with a delicious ice-cold Cuban beer, we headed back to the hotel where we would be briefed on what would occur in the first few days. Day two we arrived in ‘La Isla de la Juventud’ (Isle of Youth). It was in the internal airport that we first met the other school with whom we would be diving: a Canadian school from Brantford, Ontario. After a brief, eye-wateringly hot and bouncy flight from Havana to the Isle of Youth – in an old Russian Antonov military transport plane, with a civilian livery but still no working air-con, of course – we arrived at our hotel, where we would spend most of our free time (which turned out to be far less than we had anticipated, but at least the hotel was great

with good food, a fine pool, air-con in the huge bedrooms and a beautiful palm tree-lined beach). By the end of the first week we all became qualified PADI open-water divers and became much closer with each other, our dive masters and the Canadian students (with whom most of us have remained in contact). The diving was incredible; I can safely speak for everyone in saying that the diving was the highlight of the expedition. The crystal-clear water and the diverse and colourful wildlife were exhilarating and the feeling of weightlessness while underwater was surreal at first, but we became accustomed to it and loved every minute. We spent most of the first week on the huge catamaran, the Coco Club, on which there was plenty of social time to get to know everyone better and to build on our tans as we motored out to the dive sites. The Coco Club was also the location of one of the best evenings of the entire trip: the ‘Degas Night’ boat party (as in ‘degassing’ nitrogen from our blood; no artists involved). Despite some very unusual dance moves such as `The Touwa’, everyone had a night to remember. In addition, Leo Dzwizisch made amends for his passport issue by performing a short opera to the crowd; was this the first time opera had been sung in a boat off the coast of Cuba? The first week flew by, and after the incredible dives and informative `Reef Ecology’ lectures, we entered week two.

Week two kicked off with everyone split into three groups: one tackling ichthyology, another tackling manatee surveying and the other tackling lionfish populations and reef coral diversity. The groups would rotate every few days so everyone experienced all of the activities. All of the staff were very knowledgeable and friendly which made the trip all the more enjoyable. The food was delicious, especially the freshly caught seafood dishes on the Felipe Poey, a converted fishing boat which acted as a research vessel for Havana University and which we lived on for two or three days. Their crew could speak little English (with the exception of two university staff), but several of the boys could and we felt both very welcome and finally of value to the environmentalists: we were collecting data which was to be used to help monitor the health of the reefs. However, just as we had adjusted to Cuban life and started to become competent in our work, it was time to say goodbye. We wished we could stay longer and indeed several boys have decided to return during their university days to work with Operation Wallacea as dive masters. All in all, the expedition was an incredible experience and, on behalf of the boys, I would like to offer our huge thanks to Miss Swallow, Mr Beale and Miss Dimmock who made this amazing trip possible. Daniel DiFilippo

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A CULTURAL TRIP TO

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China is a vast country and so in our two-week trip we could only hope to scratch the surface of such a rich and interesting culture. However, despite this, the trip delivered what was an amazing and intriguing taster. I think I speak for all the boys and staff who went, in saying that it will not be easily forgotten. So now to test that theory I will recount some of my favourite memories. Our first stop was Beijing and, after a ten-hour flight from Heathrow, we arrived in one of the largest cities on the planet (nobody knows the exact population due to its rapid growth). We were eagerly awaited by our tour guide, Leo, who took us to our hotel to get settled in. Over the next few days we visited many exciting and significant places, such as the Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, the Great Wall and the Summer Palace. My favourite of all of these was the Summer Palace. I was overwhelmed by the outstanding beauty of the place with its huge lake and scenic views. After Beijing we travelled by plane to Xian. We were informed by our new guide that it was a relatively small city of only nine million people. Over the next two days we saw the Terracotta Army, the Big Goose Pagoda and the ancient city wall. While I was hugely impressed by the size and skill needed to craft the Terracotta Army, I actually preferred seeing the ancient city wall as it seemed to encapsulate the differences between the modern, industrial China outside the wall and the ancient, traditional China which it surrounded. Hangzhou was next on the agenda (don’t worry – most of us hadn’t heard of it either) and, after being reminded once again of the vastness of the country by a two-and-a-half-hour domestic flight, we were taken to visit one of the best tea plantations in

China and an iconic Buddhist temple by our tour guide, Penny. ( I shall never forget her name thanks to the many times she referred to herself in the third person! She, like all of our other tour guides, was a superb guide, though.) Suzhou was the penultimate stop on our trip. It is known as ‘Venice of the East’ and, taking a boat ride along the tight canals lined with shops and homes, it was not hard to see why. While there we fed goldfish at a private garden and a calligraphy lesson helped us to focus on learning some Chinese characters. We also visited a silk factory where we witnessed the manufacturing process of the silk, from the silk worms to the final product design. We left Suzhou via the Bullet Train which we calculated would cut down the speed of the Bedford to London journey to roughly 15 minutes. Finally, we visited Shanghai. I would not have been surprised if someone had mistaken it for London or New York with the tall glass skyscrapers and the mock Victorian buildings, not to mention the assortment of western mega-chains such as KFC. We visited Yu Garden, the City Museum, the old French district, Nanjing East Road and the Bund (the equivalent to Bond Street). Here prices were as high as those in London but, luckily, we found a basement market which sold fake designer wares and other tat to fill our suitcases. The trip was a huge success and I would like to take this opportunity to thank Dr Chen and Mr Bury for the many hours of painstaking organisation they put in to make it so amazing. I hope that in the few fleeting moments between looking after the students they managed to enjoy the trip themselves. Callum Fenton

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Blog excerpts … Day 1 We were pleased to see the back of a grey, wet England and standstills on the motorways as we took off on WOW air this morning. The airline did actually wow us with its comfort and efficiency. Three hours later we landed in a sunny yet brisk Iceland to be greeted by Ian Hardie-, our tour guide, and Áumundi, our coach driver. It was straight on the bus from the airport to see our first view of rifting between the continents and then on to see the impressive sight of geothermally heated water pouring into the Atlantic Ocean. Already impressed by the landscape, we headed off to Solfatara to see fumeroles emitting pungent sulphurous steam into the air, creating a wonderfully eerie atmosphere. It was then on to the Blue Lagoon for a relaxing evening spa. A late evening meal of very fresh food in our comfortable hotel topped off an excellent first day. Although no Northern Lights thus far. Ben Thrasher

Day 2 We started the day in relatively good spirits despite last night's disappointment of the Northern Lights not showing up; hopefully tonight will be better. We boarded the bus at 9 o'clock and went to visit the Hellishedi Geothermal power plant, which was fantastic. The cleanliness and relevant design of the plant made it all the more interesting. In fact, this plant is so powerful it could almost handle the whole of Iceland's domestic energy needs. After sizing up the power plant for its party potential, we moved on to the geothermal areas. It was very interesting seeing warm mud seep up to the surface and learning how the soil and clay mix (along with the usual dose of the smell of sulphur – it wouldn't be Iceland without it!) After the mud springs we moved on to the Kerid Crater Lake which was amazing. The scenery was unbelievable: there was not a building in sight and, as always, the Icelandic people did a great job of preserving the environment which was completely unspoiled. After a quick lunch we visited Geysir. Again it was fascinating to see how powerful nature can be by spouting hot water up to 40 metres into the air: words just can't describe it! We finished the day with a visit to Gulfoss waterfalls (which were beautiful) topped off by a trip to a local pool. It was very good fun and, more importantly, warm (not a word you'll hear much when describing this trip). Ben Thrasher

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ICELAND 2014

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Day 3 Today started with ominous clouds but, as we drove to the ferry (during which time many of us caught up on much needed sleep) the clouds cleared away. We were lucky to have calm winds for the crossing and, upon arrival, everyone was raring to go. The island of Heimaey itself was amazing; the stark contrast between fresh and old lava was breathtaking, along with the views of the mainland. A brisk walk up the volcano led to the discovery of several hot gas vents, perfect for warming sandwiches or melting chocolate chip cookies. The swimming pool today was simply awesome: the flumes provided a lot of excitement and a couple of people impressed with their standing capabilities on one with a trampoline exit. The Surtsey Centre was really interesting as well, showing how this new little island has attracted so much attention and interest. It is 40 years since the last eruption of Heimaey in 1973. James Winder

Day 4 After another hearty breakfast we were back on Áumundi's magical tour bus heading for Seljalandsfoss, which was 45 metres tall. The first thing that took our breath away was the sheer sound that echoed and thundered on our approach. As we walked behind the curtain of water, we were pleased to have packed our waterproofs as we got drenched in the spray. We then headed to Skogafoss which was literally a whole new mind-blowing experience as we tried out Ian Hardy’s ‘Klein theory’. This entailed a group stare at the waterfall for 60 seconds, followed by a look at the cliff to the left; amazingly it danced in front of our eyes leaving us feeling dazed and transfixed. We then headed closer and got drenched – again. Afterwards, we headed further south to Dyrhólaey to see stunning coastal features and scenery. Although we were

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nearly blown away by the howling gale, it was incredible to witness such ferocious conditions with such a stunning backdrop. Hopping back on to the magic school bus we headed to the town of Vik to sample some of the local delicacies. This turned out to be Icelandic pilsur (aka hotdog with all the trimmings) with chips and coffee – just what the doctor ordered after all the wind and rain! Loaded with carbs and caffeine we donned crampons and picked up ice axes ready for our ice adventure on Sólheimajökull. Stunning views and breathtaking scenery made the walking seem effortless and, in no time at all, we became expert ice walkers (or at least we did not fall flat on our faces). Cold, tired, yet exhilarated, we had just completed day four of our incredible Icelandic escapade. G.M. Strachan and S.E.S. Spyropoulos

Day 5 An awesome sunrise signalled the start of a very cold but wonderfully sunny and clear day in Iceland. We drove initially to Thingvellir National Park along a scenic route past an HEP power plant and the geothermal power plant producing all of Reykjavik’s hot water. We also saw some very good examples of 'pillow lava' and a shield volcano clearly present in a rift valley between the North American and Eurasian plates. Thingvellir fissure gave us an opportunity to walk between the earth’s plates and see excellent examples of ropey lava and layers of lava. We also saw the location of the original Icelandic parliament, said to be the birthplace of democracy (although this is debatable!). The height of the

land gave wonderful panoramas of the surrounding nature and its volcanoes. It was then on to Reykjavik for a chance to shop and see the sights of the city. A stop at Reykjavik’s huge geothermal swimming pool was a welcome refresher before dinner in our new hotel for the evening. The boys thoroughly enjoyed the slightly psychedelic flume and extremely hot hot-pots. The majority of the evening was spent at the volcano house cinema/cafe watching a film on the Heimay and Eyjafjallajökull eruptions followed by waffles, hot chocolate and an awards ceremony to close the trip. T.W. Rees

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AUSCHWITZ PROJECT

The Holocaust Educational Trust (HET) runs the ‘Lessons From Auschwitz’ programme each year for sixth form students across the country. Each school can apply for two students and a member of staff to participate in two seminars in London before and after a day trip to Poland to visit the Auschwitz concentration camps. The aims of the trip include education and raising awareness about the Holocaust. As Holocaust survivors reach the end of their lives, ambassadors are needed to keep their memories and experiences alive. Tim Matthews and Tom Bradbeer from the lower sixth successfully applied to participate in the project, with Mr Bolton accompanying them to the seminars and to Poland. The orientation seminar took place in late April – the main focus being a survivor testimony by the 93-years-young Freddie Knoller. Freddie grew up in Austria and was 17 when the Nazis invaded Austria. His brothers left Austria to travel to the safety of the USA and England. Freddie managed to reach some family friends in Belgium and eventually ended up in France. After joining the resistance, he fell in love with a local girl who soon betrayed him to the Nazis. He was imprisoned in Drancy, Auschwitz I, Dora-

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Nordhausen and Bergen-Belsen. Speaking for nearly two hours, Freddie was an inspirational speaker whose testimony brought the Holocaust to life. It was a privilege to hear him speak. The day trip to Poland took place at the end of April. An early start saw us head to Luton Airport where we met up with other students from our region. The HET had chartered a plane and we travelled to Poland with some dignitaries, including members of the House of Lords, and local journalists. Upon arrival we were taken to O´ swięcim, the Polish town that the Nazis had renamed Auschwitz following the 1939 invasion of Poland. O´ swięcim had been a predominantly Jewish town before the Nazi invasion. We visited a Jewish graveyard that had been restored following the Second World War after the gravestones had been uprooted by the Nazis to be used as paving stones. The restoration of the graveyard, and the inclusion of it in the HET project, was intended to rehumanise the victims of the Holocaust, to show respect to the dead and to represent evidence of Nazi atrocities. Following our visit to O´ swięcim, we travelled to Auschwitz I concentration camp. We entered underneath the Arbeit Macht

Frei sign and were given a tour of the camp which was built in 1940 to deal initially with prison overcrowding as the Nazis arrested thousands of Polish political prisoners. The site covers six hectares and felt claustrophobic. The stone barracks are now a museum with exhibits including stockpiles of shoes and human hair and piles of abandoned luggage brought by the Jewish prisoners who had no idea of the fate that awaited them. A gallery of photos of the initial prisoners into Auschwitz I named the prisoners. Once the numbers of prisoners became too large, names were dispensed with and the Nazis gave each prisoner a number, thus dehumanising their victims. One particularly poignant exhibit within Auschwitz I was Block 11 which had been the prison within the prison and was the site of the first mass killing with Zyklon-B gas. Outside the block was a courtyard, at the end of which was the ‘death wall’. The courtyard was silent with some floral tributes left by the wall where executions once took place. We were then led past a few blocks that the Nazis had designated to be hospitals. In reality, they were not hospitals and the prisoners had renamed them ‘waiting rooms’. The final stage of the tour of Auschwitz I was to look out of the camp towards an old villa. This used to belong to the former commandant, Rudolph Höss. We wondered why he would have helped to commit such atrocities. Suggestions were put forward: racial politics, power, the banality of evil. The final part of the tour was a visit to Auschwitz II-Birkenau. We approached the camp by following the old railway tracks towards the facade of the camp – the iconic image of the archway underneath a watchtower through which a train would pass carrying prisoners into the camp. Birkenau was built to deal with the overcrowding in Auschwitz I and we climbed the watchtower to see a panorama of the whole site. It is huge, measuring one kilometre by two kilometres and covering 136 hectares. 300 prison barracks had been built on the site (only a few remain) with a maximum capacity of around 90,000 prisoners. As we walked around the camp, poems and testimonies from Holocaust survivors were read out from the works of Primo Levi, from accounts by Kitty Hart-Moxon, OBE, and others and from diaries of the Sonderkommando – prisoners who were forced to assist with the murder of other prisoners and the disposal of their bodies. Our tour ended with a short ceremony led by Rabbi Barry Marcus at the end of the railway track within Birkenau. He recited in Hebrew the El Molei Rachamim, a prayer for the victims of the Holocaust. Around us were the ruins of the gas chambers and crematoria. Following the prayer, Rabbi

Marcus said a few words explaining why he felt the LFA project was so important. He highlighted the three questions asked most frequently about the trips. The first question was why he felt it was important that these trips occurred. His response was that genocides and mass-murders still occur, as does Holocaust denial, and thus education is an important force in countering these problems. The second question concerned how the Holocaust was possible. How was it allowed to occur? For Rabbi Marcus, this was the wrong question. Instead, the question should be: how was the Holocaust humanly possible? The third question concerned God – where was God during the Holocaust? Again, said Rabbi Marcus, this is the wrong question. Instead of asking where God was, we should be asking: where was man? We had been provided with memorial candles at the start of our visit to Birkenau and we were each encouraged to light our candle and leave it somewhere on the site. Our role now is to act as ambassadors. The next step in the project is to recount our experiences and take the key messages back to school. The LFA project has been an incredible experience, but one that is difficult to put into words. To say we enjoyed it seems wrong. We felt a mixture of horror, misery, senselessness, fascination, but it was also informative and inspiring at the same time. It will stay with us for the rest of our lives. Tim Matthews, Tom Bradbeer and M.W. Bolton

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CLASSICAL TOUR OF ITALY Itinerary: 28th March – arrival and Rome 29th March – Rome 30th March – Sorrento and Herculaneum 1st April – Pompeii 2nd April – Cumae and the Villa Poppaea at Opplontis 3rd April – Naples Museum and return

Day 1 There was a clear sense of excitement among everyone as we began our journey on the longawaited classics tour to Rome. Above all, the day was filled with many memorable and comedic moments; through Rob losing possessions, including his boarding pass (twice), the dreadful dinner in the form of a ready meal, and lots of fond reminiscing about Mr Melvill and his excessive need to straighten things. All of this hilarity was enjoyed in the beautiful city of Rome, bits of which we explored throughout the evening. All in all, a great introduction to the tour, and we were all excited for the times ahead!

Day 2 Ancient Rome! We began with the Circus Maximus and a mad dash around the field (Will Comfort took the laurel wreath), followed by the Arch of Constantine and the Forum Romanum. It was absolutely stunning with glorious sunshine and incredible sites; from the (now) wisteria-coated House of the Vestal Virgins to the mighty columns of the Temple of Saturn. A quick sandwich on the go then cracked into the Colosseum; extraordinary, and one of the highlights of the tour. From here we explored the Trevi Fountain, dutifully lobbing our spare change from the enormous gelatos, then the Pantheon and, finally, the bustling Piazza Navona. Not satisfied with our gelatos, we enjoyed a proper Italian dinner at a local trattoria where jolly Italians gesticulated wildly and brought us plates of pasta and pizza. Jack Hutchings’s cheese phobia was revealed, Tom Gulliver tanked his way through an enormous pile of seafood (not for the last time on this trip) and we learned that Joe Conlon doesn’t really eat food. Crucially, we learned that Matt Diemer is not as strong as Mrs Markham when it comes to arm wrestling but that Miss Dimmock is freakishly strong. We then made our way back to the hotel, some via buses, some as intrepid explorers on foot with nothing but Mrs Markham’s inbuilt sense of direction and plucky enthusiasm for the task, sighing wistfully at the final sunset over the Tiber.

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Day 3 We travelled to Herculaneum in the morning and went to a ‘virtual museum’ – a modern museum with loads of special effects, like a screen showing a pool of water (impluvium) which rippled as you waved your hands over it, making it seem almost real. The museum showed on screen many items from the Herculaneum and Pompeii area, many of which we would see in reality at the museum in Naples. We also got to experience the eruption of Vesuvius from the perspective of the volcano itself. This was a bit weird, actually. Lunch was at a local pizzeria where the pizzas were cooked on a proper wood stove and the owner graciously accepted Mrs Markham’s offer of a photo, although he did seem slightly hesitant ... (in reality the over-friendly waiter was responsible for this!). All this was a few hundred yards from the ancient former fishing town of Herculaneum, which was preserved by layers of volcanic mud. When looking at it, the place was almost indistinguishable from the building style of the modern town. It presented an almost exact example of a normal Roman’s life and was pretty amazing. I have been told that Herculaneum is one of only a few sites where it’s possible to see complete second storeys of Roman buildings, and it was a real experience. For many of us, Herculaneum was the best day of the whole tour.

Day 4 ‘We’re still alive. Mrs Markham’s bombardment of energy is driving us forward.’ Today we entered the ancient relics of one of Italy’s primary tourist attractions, Pompeii. The city was preserved by two-thousand-year-old ash and is situated just south of Napoli, a city known for capitulating at Stamford Bridge in the 2012 Champions’ League round of 16. We entered the scene having never experienced the full force of how ancient Roman cities worked from day to day. With the forum, triclinia and a broad selection of brothels at our disposal, boys and staff alike took advantage of the opportunity to explore fully these fantastic facilities (excluding the latter, obviously). Columns soared over our heads and, gruesomely, displayed around the streets were casts of bodies lying on the floor in their dying moments (even a woman cradling her baby for one last time). We tracked down some especially important areas: the House of the Faun, the House of the Vetii and – most importantly – the House of Caecilius. What a legend. With memories made and Pompeii over we returned to our hotel with dreary eyes after receiving the full Markham-Sheldon combo of facts and figures about ancient Pompeii. What next? Wait until Day 5 ....

Day 5 A day of travel to two incredible final sites: our guide ensured that on the bus journey we became familiar with the growing processes of artichokes, the road-tax system, the manner of doing one’s laundry in Italy and the correct way to cook perfect pasta. I don’t know how long the bus journey was – time seemed to have no meaning any more. When we arrived at the Villa Poppaea in Oplontis, we were stunned by the opulence of the place. This was the home of the wife of the Emperor Nero – an extraordinary site with some of the most incredible wall-paintings and an unnecessarily large swimming pool. From here we went to our final site: Cumae and the Sibyl’s Cave from Virgil’s Aeneid. Brushing past the minor inconvenience of the cave being closed for refurbishment, we still explored the site from the outside. I personally think it was better not going in, as caves are much more interesting from the outside. Poignantly, our last ancient site visit at Cumae involved scrambling among the rubble of a huge temple complex. Seeing those columns resting in pieces like broken breadsticks brought to mind Ozymandias: ‘Look upon my works, ye mighty, and despair.’ We were witnessing some of the last vestiges of the Greek empire in Italy and it brought the whole tour home. We could have had nothing but pizza for our last dinner back in Sorrento, giving out prizes, which included best dressed (Joe M), best sunglasses (Dylan A), worst behaviour at a classical site (Aaron M – twerking at Herculaneum) and most selfies (the staff).

Day 6 A very sad day, our last in Italy, but an exit punctuated by the trip to Italy’s foremost classical museum in Italy’s spiciest city: Naples. Wallets were thrust deep into pockets and carefully guarded; the Mafia was not far from our minds as we bumped around the cobbled streets in our Siren coach. Our driver, Pasquale, was to be applauded for navigating the streets where traffic laws meant ‘if you can fit your vehicle in that space, it’s yours!’ and although we nearly killed a few motorcyclists, we arrived in the centre of town in one piece and ready for lunch. Pizza, obviously. Almost everything which had been excavated from the sites at Oplontis, Cumae, Herculaneum and Pompeii had been taken to this museum. In particular, we enjoyed the Farnese collection; the Hercules statue (towering above us) and the Bull – a beautiful but terrifying sculpture – depicting ‘death by bull’. We found a great bust of Cicero and of the legend Caecilius himself. We ventured (with academic faces set) into the Secret Rooms: where the images and sculpture deemed too fruity for the Neapolitan royalty were kept. We left the room shortly after and reapplied our academic faces. Two pieces in the museum caused the biggest stir: the sculpture of Pan with a goat, the sentiment of which Markham and Sheldon disagreed upon, and the Alexander mosaic from Pompeii – Sheldon’s favourite classical artefact. Rather touchingly, Sheldon had never seen it in the flesh and it was an exciting moment for him as he searched the halls for it and gloried in its depth and the skill of the artist(s). Overall, a fantastic tour made special by everyone who came with us.

George Neave, Jack Hutchings, Callum Fenton and F.L. Markham

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Although an ecology trip to Swanage doesn’t sound like the most exciting way to spend a weekend, I think we were all surprised by how much fun it turned out to be, despite a few late nights trying to finish write-ups. We left on Friday morning after being split into two groups for the minibuses: the group that wanted to play Mario Kart DS the whole way down went on one bus and everyone else went on the other. After a rather long journey, in which I slightly regretted not bringing my DS, we went straight to a river near Swanage to do our first piece of fieldwork. We quickly discovered that wading through a river is far more exciting than it sounds. About an hour later most of us were dripping wet as we had to jump up and down in the river to catch any wildlife (with some of us discovering that wellies don’t keep your feet dry when the water’s up to your waist). We then headed back to Leeson House for a well-deserved rest. Between resting, eating and playing touch rugby and football in the evening, we began our second piece of fieldwork which involved catching and marking wood lice, which was surprisingly difficult! The next morning we got to work bright and early: the IB boys had the task of designing an experiment to measure the wildlife at Kimmeridge Bay and the A-level boys attempted to catch newts in the ponds. We then went off to Kimmeridge to begin our experiments, which included measuring the size of limpets, the frequency of periwinkles and the size of different varieties of seaweed. Before long we were all finished and returned to playing rugby back at Leeson. That night we all crammed into the TV room to watch in horror as Italy beat England in our first World Cup match. We started our final day by looking at the animals our instructor Mark had caught: the sight of James Herriott’s face as a mouse jumped out of the trap he was holding was a personal highlight for me, and I even released one of the birds Mark had caught. We then headed off to Studland for our final task, looking at the plant coverage on the sand dunes. After we’d finished we roamed the beach with our spear-like profiling poles. Over the three days at Swanage we did a lot of work and learnt a lot, but also ended up having a really good time, not only in our free time but also as we worked. It’s a trip that I would strongly recommend to any future biology student! Ed Jones

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LOWER SIXTH BIOLOGY FIELD TRIP

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MONTPELLIER

A couple of days after the end of the spring term, a group of 15 boys from fourth, remove and fifth forms flew to Montpellier in the south of France for a five-day cultural/language immersion course (not a holiday). Two members of staff, Miss Genève and Mr Braithwaite, came with us to make sure we behaved. We stayed in people’s homes and if my landlady could speak English she was determined not to reveal it. Clearly, she was under orders to make sure we only spoke French. Requesting the wifi code in French was an early challenge for me but as the trip progressed my confidence in speaking – and just as importantly, listening – in French improved steadily. Going to the cinema in France was a new experience – all I had been used to before was watching a great thriller like Tell No One with English subtitles. Each day followed the same format: three hours of French lessons in the morning at the language school, lunch and then an activity. A trip round Montpellier revealed that it is France’s eighth largest city – the whole area around the city having a population of more than half a million people – and has a strong Spanish heritage. We were told that the city has a rich history with many buildings having medieval roots. It did not appear chic or very modern but it looked like a safe, comfortable place in which to live. Judging by the amount of English I heard, there were a lot of tourists and visitors. The language school’s teachers mentioned to us that the day before we arrived had seen the second round of voting in the Municipal elections. The extreme right, anti-immigration party Front National had been hoping to win towns like Montpellier from the Socialists but it was a left of centre candidate who won here.

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The centre of Montpellier is a few kilometres from the sea but many neighbourhoods are by the sea. We visited Sète and enjoyed a boat trip on the Mediterranean. The highlight for me was returning to the Camargue which is a large river delta and is a national park. The Camargue’s huge open spaces and marshy wetlands are famous for their wild white horses and for bulls which are usually exported to neighbouring Spain for bullfighting. I was ‘under orders’ to purchase sea salt for my mother and godmother (it’s great for cooking, apparently). It was a really enjoyable trip and, without realising it at the time, my understanding of spoken French improved (it needed to). And, of course, it’s great fun to be away and see more of the world. I would certainly recommend this course to anyone who wants to improve their knowledge of and confidence in French. Harry Guthrie

IMAGES OF SCHOOL LIFE

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ASHBURNHAM THE DAY HOUSE Housemaster: S.P. Everitt Head of house: Matthew Beal The 2013–14 year was an incredible one for Ashburnham. The house enjoyed considerable success, winning house water polo and house drama (although the latter was a close shave). The juniors were also triumphant in hockey, squash, tennis, badminton and U15 rugby. The seniors were less successful but nevertheless put in strong performances, remembering the Ashburnham motto: ‘Right place, right time, right kit.’ Consequently Ashburnham lifted the house cup. This triumph can be attributed to the determination and perseverance of all the boys who represent the house in every competition. In true house spirit, Ashburnham also decided to raise as much money as possible to help fund the Maliyadeva Boys’ Orphanage in Sri Lanka. The orphanage provides a safe place in which homeless boys can be cared for and educated. The whole of Ashburnham took on the challenge with a huge amount of effort and goodwill. United, we all participated in a run, a cake sale and had table-tennis tournaments in support of the orphanage. At the end of the year, when all the proceeds were counted, we had raised a massive £1,653.67. This was no small achievement, with every boy doing his bit to raise money for this excellent cause. Of course, thanks must also be given to staff who helped to coordinate the events and especially Mr Everitt who encouraged the whole house to get behind the fundraising activities. All in all it an extremely successful year for Ashburnham, from competitions to charity work, and we look forward to continuing to build on our successes next year. Tom Backhouse

SANDERSON’S BOARDING HOUSE Housemaster: J.C. Law Head of house: Vinny Lombardo This year Sanderson’s welcomed Ms Law, Mr Irving and their three dogs to the house, and with them came many opportunities for us in the house to get out together, starting

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with paintballing for the new arrivals on the first weekend. Soon after the new boys had settled in, the hard work for house singing began. Although it didn’t go as well as hoped, it was still enjoyed as much as previous years; special thanks to Morgan Colbeck for making us rehearse every day and for conducting us (on his 18th birthday!). Working with Ashburnham, Sanderson’s was represented at almost all the house events this year, but the highlight was house drama. A truly hilarious production, written by Matthew Gloudsborough and acted out by Sanderson’s boys from all years, produced a winning performance, with Max Lawson producing a hilarious act. This aided in securing victory in the overall house cup at the end of the year! There was a range of house trips but, notably, the Sunday trip to the Harry Potter World was … magical. All boys who attended came away laughing and saying they had a great time, included Mr Davies, who, sadly, we said goodbye to at the end of the year. We really thank him for all he has done and wish his replacement, Mr Huddlestone, all the best in his new post. The general feel of the house this year has been as brilliant as ever, with boys outside playing in the garden. When the World Cup was on we gathered around the common room cheering on our respective teams. This is a prime example of the family feel that Sanderson’s never fails to produce year in year out. It has truly been a pleasure to be part of this great house over the years and I would like to wish (on behalf of all the leavers) the current Sandersonians all the best! Vinny Lombardo

BROMHAM THE DAY HOUSE Housemaster: A.J.R. Huxford Head of house: George Cox Another year in Bromham house passes, and it was not without its highs and lows. Throughout the multitude of house events that Bromham boys have partaken in, they have participated with their enduring sense of conviction and loyalty to the house. This never-ending determination eventually led us to finish in a remarkable second place in the house cup. Considering that, for the past two years, Bromham had been placed fifth and sixth, such a dramatic shift in gear is impressive, not least because we only lost out to Ashburnham by a single point! This year saw a further expansion in the variety of house competitions available to the boys with Mr Huxford’s own competition, house photography, mysteriously being won by a Burnaby boy! As well as the newer events, the old favourites were still there, including house singing, sports day and house rugby, to name but a few. At the start to the year, sports day was a little disappointing. However, the senior Bromham boys managed to win their category impressively. A little later in the term was what must be a highlight of every Bromham boy’s year: house singing. Despite admirable hard work from the boys who were performing, Bromham and Burnaby only managed a collective fifth. However, regardless of the result, the rest of Bromham led the way in showing their support from the balconies above. More impressive results followed with a first place in senior house hockey, resulting in well-deserved house colours for several members of the fifth form. The house dinner was again a fantastic event this year, with Mr Gracie as guest speaker, attracting the largest gathering for a house dinner in the past four years. We also had an impressive victory in the house table tennis. Doubtless the past year has been rewarding, exciting and enjoyable for all boys in the house. They have all continued to partake in all aspects of school life with the same enthusiasm which has come to define Bromham boys. Perhaps we could be lifting the house cup next year. Alex Stammers

BURNABY BOARDING HOUSE Housemaster: R.E. Heale Heads of house: Thomas Bruce and Nurdaulet Bazylbekov Year after year, boarding houses are challenged with a nearly impossible task: to provide boys with a place that can really feel like home. I think Burnaby succeeds particularly well in this regard, not only by replacing home, but by filling it with about 30 friendly boys, kind matrons and a great housemaster who makes everyone’s stay at Burnaby so much more enjoyable. To ensure no one is ever bored, Mr Heale plans various trips such as gokarting, paintball, visits to the cinema or simple things like barbecues which are always great fun. The most exciting events this year, though, have been the house competitions, in which Burnaby and Bromham were unified and performed very well: Fanshan Min made sure that we won house basketball in a thrilling final against Paulo Pontine; Hans-Christian Preyer carried the hockey team to victory; and Hei Jing Tsang won table tennis with an inspiring individual performance. All these successes carried Bromham to second place in the house cup, narrowly losing to Ashburnham by one point. Another unifying event for the boarding house has been house singing. For nearly two months the whole house gathered every weekday to practice two songs, which was a gruelling task, but turned out to be a great experience. Burnaby has a reputation for being very bad in this competition, as we are a sixth form boarding house and do not have the high voices that other houses have. However, this year we came in third for the unison performance, which felt like a great success for the house. Towards the end of the year the exam stress set in and the successful completion of IB and A-level exams was a great relief for all of the upper sixth. I’m proud to say that Burnaby showed some academic excellence this year, having Filip Kozera depart to Cambridge and, overall, having pleasing results. Altogether 2013–14 has been a truly amazing year in Burnaby and I’m looking forward to returning after the summer. Felix von Bodelschwingh

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CRESCENT THE DAY HOUSE Housemaster: C.H. Fisher Head of house: Callum Logan With Mr Fisher coming in to lead the house, it was clear that the Crescent philosophy of trying as hard as possible in every competition, despite the occasional lack of skill, would persevere. This was shown from one of the first events on the house calendar, house swimming; never our strongest event, but on the poolside our team spirit and painfully loud cheering left the other houses back in the changing rooms. The same was true at sports day and house relays: on the rare occasion another house was heard it was when they were complaining about how loud we were! Eventually our team spirit did produce some results, winning the lower sixth house relay and junior fives, along with most of the racket sports, including squash, badminton and tennis. And it was not only in sports that we were well represented, but also in music and academic events, including reaching the house debating final (which we should have won in my unbiased opinion). We also performed well in the number of merits we accrued, with some boys achieving a year’s worth of merits in two weeks. The commitment of Crescent boys outside of the house is also considerable. A huge chunk of the new monitors are from our house and house colours were awarded to a total of 13 boys, namely Jamie White, Bobby Martin, David Woods, Dan DiFilippo, Josh Selvey, Adam Selvey, James Medley, Matt Malendine, Phil Barnes, Jesse Billington, Ross Cawood, Lachlan Welch and, of course, George Allen. Also notable is the number of Crescent boys seen contributing to all of the school’s fundraising events, from attempted moustaches to Phil Barnes’s inspirational bike ride to Paris. This has set a fantastic example to the juniors and the rest of the school. At the end of this year I look to the upper sixth who have left Crescent and who are now OBs. They are a great group of gentlemen who have committed to the house, if not always in obvious ways in house completions but simply in the day-to-day running of the house; from showing us how to play FIFA or work the speakers, to helping younger boys with revision. The highlight of this year in Crescent is difficult to determine: we have had so many great moments, but, in the end, the most popular choice was sports day, where our cheering drowned out the other houses and the commentators during nearly every single race. James Winder

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PEMBERLEY BOARDING HOUSE Housemaster: P. Sherwin Head of house: Fabian Cooper Pemberley had another great year under the quality leadership of Mr Sherwin and Fabian Cooper. The year started with the huge event that is house singing. After weeks of practice under the watchful eye of Fabian (our conductor), we put in a classy, Michael Bublé-like performance to finish a respectable third. However, in full Pemberley spirit, we made sure we had the best after-party! Throughout the year we went on numerous house trips, including the West End theatre trip to see Lion King. We also took our first house trip to the driving range; a trip which led to the creation of the 'Pemberley Golf Club'. The year culminated in a great set of exam results for our leaving upper sixth and fifth form. The highlights were Rory McCracken scoring 42 points in the IB and Chris Junge getting all A*s at GCSE. We wish all our leaving upper sixth a great future and hope that they come back and visit soon. Another great year is sure to follow … ! Tom Humphreys

PAULO PONTINE THE DAY HOUSE Housemaster: A.J. Braithwaite Head of house: George Burton During the year the Paulo boys rose head and shoulders above the rest in a number of competitions. We won senior house rugby with outstanding performances from many of the boys, notably Ollie Lyons, Paddy McDuell, Tom Hall, George Cochrane-Davies and Angus Gill. Also, we conquered another of the school’s major sports: cricket. The side was led by example with sterling performances across the tournament from Alex Axon, Shiv Patel and Paddy McDuell. The boys defeated Crescent in the final; two runs were all that separated the two sides. In October, Paulo was victorious in the house swimming event with some outstanding performances from Nick Stalley and Conrad Webber. Away from the house’s sporting accomplishments we also won arguably the biggest and most highly contested single competition of the year: house singing. It was an enjoyable occasion for all and the party went on into the night back at Redburn. As well as house signing, Marcus Eames, Daniel Gardner, Tristan Brown and Josh Garrett pulled off a heroic performance in the house drama competition. The boys were not expected to do well in the competition as preparation was minimal, but it goes to show just what can be achieved with a bit of effort and a lot of desire. Although the boys didn’t win, many people thought that their performance was the highlight of the evening. Throughout the year many social events were enjoyed by the boys. Towards Christmas, Mr Braithwaite was joined by around ten sixth-form boys for a curry, a small event which allowed everyone to socialise outside of the usual school environment. Similarly, the younger boys had a fantastic time when a tabletennis tournament was held in the house. A whole-house event was organised by Rupert Jacques shortly before Christmas where a projector and screen were set up in the house; a film was put on and pizza was shared around. This year, Paulo Pontine narrowly missed out on retaining the house cup by a tiny margin. Many houses would see this as an achievement; we see it as a reason to push on, learn and better ourselves next year. Marcus Phillips

dominated by trial exams and rain, but before half-term we did manage to go on a theatre trip to the West End to see Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. As the weather dried up, so the sporting side of school life sprang into action. Wednesday night football remains a highlight of the week for many lads. We were also involved in house swimming, water polo, basketball, fives and canoeing. We ended with the house relay. Following this, six boys ran laps of the school in a sponsored run for prostate cancer, between them running 43 laps and raising around £200 – a sterling effort. The summer term was another busy one. There were a number of house competitions – we did very well to win house cricket and house rowing. We also did well in the house live below the line competition, house photography and tennis to leave the ‘top house’ competition very close at the top. When the net merits were added in – this is where every merit and every warning counts towards the house total – we ended up joint second, just one agonising point behind the winners! So, we graciously handed over our trophy to Ashburnham and vowed to do that little bit better next year. Redburn lads were also instrumental (pardon the pun) in the tremendous concerts of the final few weeks – the first orchestra concert, the bands concert, the prize winners’ concert, the second orchestra concert and music on the lawn. The house barbecue also went very well and it was great to see a few old boys come back to see us. At the end of the summer term there is time to reflect as boys end their time at school. The Redburn lads have a lot to be proud of – they have turned out to be fine young men, ready for the outside world and have taken the opportunity afforded to them with both hands. We wish the best of luck to Luke, Alex, Ben, Archie, Michal, Marcus, Yuri and Terrence: good lads all of them, worthy of being called Old Redburnians. I look forward to hearing about their future successes over the coming years. C.J. Bury

REDBURN BOARDING HOUSE Housemaster: C.J. Bury Heads of house: Luke Wilson and Archie Rush Back in September we welcomed 14 new boys into the house. Paintballing, sports day and the house pool tournament all helped get them settled, but undoubtedly the house singing competition and its daily practice is vital in the process. Luke, Archie and Michal did a sterling job in turning out a well-drilled unit who surpassed all expectations on the night and came away with all three trophies – the unison and part song as well as the overall trophy. This was a tremendous effort and full credit to the boys for what they achieved. As ever, we had a busy spring term: the first part of it was

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ST CUTHBERT’S THE DAY HOUSE Housemaster: L.M. Holt Head of house: Connor O’Brien To be head of house for St Cuthbert’s this year was a complete honour. First and foremost, I’d like to say thank you to all the boys, in particular Jack, Joe and the other members of the senior team, as well as all the tutors and, most importantly, Mr Holt. Without the help and support of all of you my job would have been a thousand times harder and more stressful, and for that I’m extremely grateful. I’m sure you’ll all agree with me in saying that this past year has been nothing but a success for the house with excellent sporting, academic, drama and singing results, for which you all deserve a tremendous round of applause. I could name many events in which we have succeeded over this past year. However, this would be a very long list. Therefore, I would like to mention one event which I feel encapsulated what it means to be part of St Cuthbert’s: house singing. As I mentioned at the house dinner, house singing was a great event, with boys from the fourth form through to the upper sixth chanting together in support of our singers, emphasising what a close relationship boys in the house have with one another. In addition to this, the boarding house (and some talented day-boy part singers) put in an outstanding performance on the stage with some very high-class singing, gaining us some vital house points. To be part of this house for four years and to lead it in my final year at school is something I will always remember. The opportunities given to us deserved to be relished and I strongly encourage you to get involved in the house and the school in as many ways as you can. To Alex Benzie and Jacob King, I wish you the best of luck running the house next year: I’m sure you’ll do a great job and, to the rest of the house, I hope you realise what a great school Bedford is and I hope you’ll make the most of your time here. Connor O’Brien

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PHILLPOTTS BOARDING HOUSE Housemaster: A.W. Grimshaw Heads of house: Tristan Perkins, Mathieu Govoni and Ryan Swallow During this year in Phillpotts, many events have taken place showing the dynamic community and how well the house works together to achieve any goal. The events we took part in included house competitions, barbecues, house trips, drama competitions and sporting events. During the house singing we performed sensationally and, in spite of the judge saying we had the best unison of the night, we had to settle for a dissatisfying second. The Christmas play was highly entertaining with a cat solving a mysterious case, a bombastic army general bumbling about and two crooks stealing a glass slipper. Every second was filled with humour, resulting in a really fun night. The dramatics continued when two of the boys played leading roles in the annual house drama competition, which was filled with many laughs and some hilarious prop accidents on stage. A great success for the house this year was during sports day, when everyone got stuck in and managed to take part in almost every competition. The supreme effort from all the boys meant we scored very highly in the rankings, coming first in many events. Dr Calverley once again proved his intellectual prowess during the house quiz night as he led the teachers’ team to an overwhelming victory over the competing boys. Mr Adams was giving out tactical information on the racing track during the house go-karting trip, helping the boys to compete with Mr Waite's experience on the course and, despite a few collisions, some record-breaking times were recorded. Many of the boys were surprised and excited to hear that a trip to Thorpe Park was planned to finish off the last term of the year. The day was thoroughly enjoyable as the boys competed to get on all the rides; Robert Akerele-Miles couldn't help but make a few new friends with people around the park. Despite all the events going on, many Phillpotts boys still found time to get involved with the first orchestra concert at the end of the year. We were also by far and away the best team during the house football competition and secured the top spot in the rankings. All this rolled together into a hugely fun and successful year. Tristan Perkins

ST PETER’S THE DAY HOUSE Housemaster: E.E. Murray Head of house: James Skirrow It has been a very successful year for St Peter’s in all aspects of school life; excelling in not only music (as we often do), but also drama and sports. We finished in an impressive second place at sports day this year which only spurred the house on to succeed in further sporting events. We won the house badminton and the fourth-form house rugby. As always, the support at house singing was second to none and it clearly inspired the boys in the part song to sing their hearts out, and achieve a very commendable second-place finish. With St Peter’s/Talbot’s winning the most music prizes by a considerable distance, it shows the abundance of musical talent we have within our ranks. We also must mention the highly successful house drama which was co-written by James Herriott and me, in which we saw our boys don the personas of some rather interesting characters to finish in a very close second place. Overall, it has been an impressive and successful year for the house and I can’t express how excited I am to co-head the house with James Herriott in an attempt to make this another fantastic year for the Shed Army! Aran Malhi

TALBOT’S BOARDING HOUSE Housemaster: M.R. Gracie Heads of house: Dom Brett and Ben Nesseler The new school year welcomed its new housemaster, Mr Gracie, its new assistant, Mr Rees, and, of course, a selection of new boys into Talbot’s, who were quick to settle into the house routines. House singing immediately helped bond these new boys together; Talbot’s entered with high aspirations and help from Karan Gupta and Mr Rooke as we sang a selection of Lion King songs. Unfortunately, despite the hard work put in by the house, we walked away empty-handed. There was an early highlight, though, as St Peter’s were victorious in junior house rugby and junior sports day. School continued as normal for the next term. Movember came along and the house supported Mr Gracie, Mr Rees and Dom Brett in their endeavours for that fundraiser. Talbot’s celebrated their Christmas dinner in fine style, as ever, with guest speaker Oliver Clough, a former head of school. Outside school the house managed to organise a go-karting trip and theatre trip to the Lion King. We also saw the house fantasy football league get under way. There were other successes such as appearances in the santa run and performances in the house play. There were also further sporting achievements; the Talbot’s charity football team were victorious, as were the St Peter’s senior fives team. In the new year there was a selection of sporting achievements: Tom Crowson and Ben Nesseler were both selected to play for the hockey 1st XI and Crowson was chosen to represent England for hockey. Nesseler completed the London Marathon later on in the term. Michael Holroyd and Karan Gupta both represented Bedford for the fives 1st team. Teepee Princewill also had a number of success for athletics,

including a second place in the national schools’ triple jump and first in the national athletics championships. For the first time in three years new hoodies were added to the Talbot’s wardrobe. Talbot’s travelled to Milton Keynes for an ice-skating trip and to see the mighty MK Dons play. Later on in the term there was a paintballing trip. At this time there were also plans to start up the Talbot’s touch team for the summer term. The end- of-term house quiz was organised by Philip Gebing, Leonard Maier and Justus Geldmacher. The teams not only played against each other, but also challenged the teachers. It was another excellent social occasion organised by the boys for the boys. The summer term welcomed the house chickens and the Talbot’s house vests, but otherwise term ran as usual except for the GCSE, IB and A-level students who all left for study leave. There were the usual summer term activities, such as garden football and the occasional barbecue, and there was a trip to Thorpe Park that earned the approval of the Talbot’s boys. St Peter’s made a strong appearance at house cricket but unfortunately came home emptyhanded. The Talbot’s touch team made their first appearance in the Bedford Touch League, winning all their games on grading day. We gave our best in all competitions throughout the year, ranging from the house photo competition to sporting events. Even though we didn’t come top in the final standings, we were able to give the other houses a tough time and we look strong for next year. John Holroyd and Philip Gebing

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FAREWELL TO JOHN MOULE Head Master 2008–2014

I first came across John Moule when I was Director of Studies. Philip Evans asked me to go to lunch with the prospective candidates for the Vice Master appointment. There were only two and one was fast asleep following the rigorous interviews that had taken place in the morning. John was the one that was awake and Philip asked my opinion afterwards. I was not very impressed with either candidate but that just shows how wrong first impressions can be. There are four portraits in John’s study. One is of Oliver Cromwell who said, ‘No one rises so high as he who knows not whither he is going’. I wonder if John ever knew where he was going. As a boy he was educated at Orleton Park and Telford New College – both comprehensive schools, which is something that John is fiercely proud of. Thereafter, he went to Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford, where he gained first class honours in modern history. A year after taking his degree John embarked upon a teaching career at Dean Close School in Cheltenham. He went on to Stowe, where he was head of the history department and then a housemaster, before serving on SMT as the senior housemaster. From Stowe, John became Vice Master at Bedford School, becoming Head Master two years later in 2008. His departure from Bedford School could be considered as either a sad or happy occasion. Sad, because no longer will John be Head Master of this great school in which capacity he has earned the respect of us all. Happy, because it enables us to record our appreciation and thanks for the great services that he has rendered to Bedford School over the years. As a staunch Christian, John has used his strong religious principles as a firm base on which to build his policy for running the school. The last few recessionary years have not been an easy time to run a school of over 1,100 boys, but the tone and high standards of the school have not only been maintained but enhanced during his headmastership. To meet John Moule is an experience not quickly forgotten; to know him is to fully appreciate the qualities of a leader. During his time as Head Master, he exercised control in a discerning manner which won for him the respect of all. His ability to inspire the best from those around him extended to all aspects of school life, whether it was in the classroom, walking around the games field or in assembly, where he excelled. This inspiration

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permeated through the school to affect even the youngest. Essentially a perfectionist, John strove to attain goals that were patently beyond most. John’s diversity of talent is one of his defining characteristics. He has broad cultural interests and a love of literature. So do many people, but John combines these with an intuitive ability to make connections, a restless curiosity about practically everything and a sharp critical intellect. John does not regard the classroom as his natural domain, but I have seen him teach PPE classes to the remove form: his style was dynamic, charismatic and probably in contravention of most health and safety principles governing sensible practice in the classroom. To say that his methods were kinaesthetic would be to understate the use he asked the boys to make of flimsy furniture. They had to decide whether, if they were running the government, they would be inclined to invade a foreign country. They had to begin by sitting on their desks and adjust their position in light of new information they received. This might make them go from sitting to standing on their benches (representing unequivocal support for invasion) or, indeed, they might get off the bench altogether if they learnt the country had nuclear weapons targeted on us. They could then climb back up and stand on it again if the next piece of information was, say, that the lives of British nationals were in danger or the country had valuable mineral resources. The lesson vividly and memorably made the point about the complexity of major political decisions, not to mention the need for sturdy classroom furniture. So are there any funny stories? Probably most will have to wait for the 30-year rule, but there is one that always makes me chuckle. John and Diana are superb hosts, as anyone who has been for supper at School House can testify. At one intimate valete dinner, during the first course John whispered to me there was a problem with his dog. I thought no more about it as I was tucking into the first course and then the main. During pudding John re-emerged to whisper that the dog had got loose and had been running around the park chased by him in a dinner jacket. He asked if he had been missed; sadly the reply was that no one had noticed he had not been there. Without a sense of humour we dry up like beetles but John’s fine sense of the incongruous and an understanding of the

shades of meaning in a word, a phrase and a line enabled him to withdraw and, without pomp or pretence, savour the image for what it was. Few men have dredged the hollows of boys’ minds as sympathetically as he did. He sees language, as Dr Johnson did, as ‘the dress of thought’ and there is a clarity in both his mind and expression that spoke truth. So what is John’s major contribution to Bedford School? Certainly not as a brooding umpire for the Senior Leagues XI, or staff five-a-side football in the gym, nor will he be remembered for his prowess on the golf course. The dining hall? The pavilion? The fitness centre? A legacy is more than simply buildings. John has fostered a great relationship between staff and boys; this is not only a great school but a very happy one, too. How many headmasters will find the time to put on a theatrical production? John did on more than one occasion, even taking one on tour to the Edinburgh Fringe. Each of his productions bore the shrewd stamp of a producer who knew the special magic which could be generated by the roar of the crowd and the smell of the greasepaint. Probably The Crucible was the most impressive and memorable but it would be invidious to select. We are in the process of building a new theatre now; vibrant, provocative and challenging, which boys will see as a medium of self-expression not, as their masters in bygone days believed, a cell of subversive activity. The conception, planning and birth of this vital area of the school was his. Boys can now experience the professional stage on their doorstep. We are not only saying farewell to John but to Diana also. I am convinced that John would not have been able to accomplish all that he has done so successfully had he not had such a loving wife beside him. Diana has contributed much to the school and we owe her our deepest gratitude for her great services. And, finally, to misquote one of John’s heroes, Lord Salisbury: ‘Successful headmasters must have sleepless tact, immovable calmness and patience that no folly, no provocation, no blunder can shake.’ Though we struggle vainly to fill the gap left by such an able colleague and good friend, we are nonetheless sincere in wishing John and Diana every success and happiness as John moves on to his new post as Warden of Radley College. No doubt they are just beginning to realise the magnitude of their gain. C. Baker, Vice Master

We bade a fond farewell to John and Diana Moule in August, and wished them well as they began their new life at Radley College. John joined Bedford School as Vice Master in January 2006, and became Head Master in September 2008. He quickly and assuredly assumed the mantle of headship, and served with distinction in that capacity for six years. He is a man of very high intellect, with wide learning and interests, and we have been fortunate to have benefited so richly from his talents. John’s passion for the school and the energy that he brought to the role resulted in many changes and developments. He brought renewed meaning to the idea of ‘the Bedford Boy’, exhorting all to think intelligently, act wisely, and be fully engaged in a challenging and changing world. He also encouraged and recognised achievement in all aspects of the school’s activities, whether academic, sporting, musical, artistic, dramatic or religious. He also brought originality to the school’s development, as demonstrated by the creation of the Bedford School Association and the plans for the new theatre on the St Luke’s site. John worked tirelessly to maintain the unity of the broader Bedford School, by ensuring that the Upper School and Prep School worked together, and that we played our part within the Harpur Trust. He also ensured that the component parts of the Bedford School community (present, past and future) should work and pull together for the common good of the school, and that the governors were fully and actively engaged in the life of the school with management and governance worked seamlessly in its best interests. Finally, John oversaw significant developments in the school’s estate: the refurbishment of the dining halls and the Langham pavilion, the creation of the Lindsey-White fitness suite, the extensive work in Nash’s and Palmer’s to improve the Prep School facilities, and the initial work on the science block and the theatre. Through all this change and development, however, John never lost sight of the underpinning culture that makes Bedford School what it is. He always sought to build on and reinforce that culture. As a consequence, at the end of his headship, we are a school and a community in good heart and on a sound footing. We can contemplate a promising and exciting future – despite the global economic challenges of recent years. On behalf of the governors and the wider school community, I therefore thank John and Diana for the exceptional and valuable contribution that they have made to Bedford School since 2006. We also wish them, along with Emily, Ben and Rachael, a happy and successful future. Stephen Mayson, Chairman of Governors

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Doctor Richard Palmer (1985–2014) Born: 25th February 1947 Died: 8th August 2014

Mildred: ‘Hey, Johnny, what are you rebelling against?’ Johnny: ‘Whaddaya got?’

I can still picture him in his high pomp, when I arrived at the school in a temporary capacity in the late 90’s to cover his sabbatical term (what a quaint concept that now seems): ash tray held between thumb and little finger of his right hand, whilst the tips of index and middle fingers held the Rothman’s (always Rothman’s), and he, peering through the plumes of smoke, sheaf of paper in his other hand, manoeuvred his way along the cramped corridor at the top of the Rice building. O happy past: long gone and never to return, with Doc as its Lord of Misrule. His charisma in those far-off days was almost palpable, like a physical force. The boys adored him and he would have nothing said against them; what most endeared him to them was his talent for metaphorically flicking the vees at the Establishment, in whatever form it took. Indeed, for a while that Establishment took the form of yours truly: I was, for terrible sins in some past life, housemaster of Bromham for three years; Doc was one of my tutors. There were times when his methods had me awake at night, fretting away time as timid and cautious types, of whom I am a fully paidup member, tend to do. Doc was not interested in – to use Robert MacDowell’s immortal phrase – the ‘schooliness of school’ and I, as his housemaster, represented that ‘schooliness’: report writing, assembly attendance and ensuring that boys’ uniform was correct in every detail. Doc rebelled against all of that all his life and I always thought that his smoking, perhaps even the way he lived his life, was as much about a rebellious affectation as it was about addiction. My smoking brought me shame: walking into class reeking of cigarettes caused my guilt to flare up like a rash and was one of the reasons I gave up on the beloved weed all those years ago. Doc never seemed to feel any of that – at least he never showed it: he had that high assurance, that supreme confidence in what he did: he was chutzpah on wheels. His utter confidence in his value judgments, to the extent that all other opinion in the room was often snuffed out after one of his pronouncements, was something it took me years to get used to. How could somebody be so sure that their judgment was right, when judgments are, necessarily, such subjective things? The way that Doc would rubbish certain books and films, sometimes things that I held dear, had me questioning my own standards and views. Yet that was how he worked, wasn’t it? I was being put in a position which required me to defend what I held dear and in defending it I was having to get at its very essence. Getting at a thing’s essence is what literary study is all about; Doc made us all, boys and staff, ask questions which guided us towards that essence. Doc was educated at Dulwich College (where his father Tony taught modern languages), before going up to Cambridge. Before his long spell at Bedford, Doc worked at Christ’s Hospital and Stamford; talking to

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RJBMacD, who joined the department in 1988, three years after Doc had taken it on, Richard was inspirational, very committed and, of course, iconoclastic. Some might have viewed him as outrageous, but Doc enjoyed stirring things up, indeed it was at the heart of what he did best. Andrew Speedy, former HoD and Doc’s protégé gives some idea of his range: He was a superb teacher and highly-regarded HoD at Bedford for nearly 20 years. He was also an OU Tutor, A Level and IB examiner, writer, jazz journalist, lecturer, cricket-lover and bon-viveur. Things were never dull when Richard was around. He was an outstanding scholar: I remember his love and admiration for such a diverse bunch of writers, from Chaucer to Shakespeare, Milton, Brontë, Eliot, Woolf, Larkin, Albee. It was such a privilege to learn from him and he always gave the impression that he was learning with the class. I’ve still got his teaching notes (often in response to pupil presentations) on any number of texts and find myself reaching for the text of the excellent annual lectures he delivered at Eastbourne College. He also embraced the IB eagerly back in 2003, dedicating one of his books to his first HL class (Will Young, Jaron Dosanjh et al). He loved cricket and jazz. The former gave him immense pleasure through his long-standing friendship with school friend Roger Knight (former Chairman of the MCC), and he was proud to have been associated with the school and the fine cricketers Bedford has produced in recent years (from Will Smith to AN Cook, Wakely and Kettleborough). He was a prolific jazz writer for the highly-regarded monthly Jazz Journal. He produced great biographies of Sonny Rollins and Oscar Peterson and he had the most extraordinary library of jazz CDs in his study in St Michael’s Road. It was a privilege to spend evenings in his company with the Jazz Appreciation Society and I remember with great fondness the live gigs we organised and the immensely entertaining and instructive Jazz App meetings in the Art School and Talbot’s. He was also a great lover of Larkin’s poetry and wrote extensively on Larkin, his views, I am sure, having much in common with those of the latest biographer of Larkin, James Booth. Sam Adams, HoD during Doc's final year at the school, also appreciated Doc’s love of literature; he writes: Literature should be challenging and just about every student who was in an RHP classroom would have felt that challenge from the first day, when a fresh copy of the The Waste Land was inevitably placed in their hands. Richard understood that great literature is a natural differentiator and, rather than back away from the complexities of the canon, he saw great works as the ideal space for students to find their level and have a good think. I hope this message will never be forgotten in the Rice Building. For countless Old Bedfordians, Richard Palmer will endure as the one teacher they’ll never forget. So many ex-students from all walks of life have asked after him in my time here that I lost count long ago. He offered them respect, affection, a fair bit of mischief and received it back from generations of students. In his final years, Doc still had that mesmeric hold on his classes; even if he struggled with his health, there was no doubting his capacity to engage a class. I remember a recent A level group we shared, a group who really were up there with some of the best sets Doc and I have ever shared. At the end of our two years, they bought him a leather-bound copy of Paradise Lost, printed around the time of the battle of Waterloo; they bought me a signed first-edition of one of Updike’s Rabbit novels. I was enormously flattered to be given such a gift by them alongside Doc. He tended to get a lot of gifts from boys. On the first day of this new school year, in the moments just before the new Head Master’s first assembly, I found myself trying to pass a message to one of my new charges in Phillpotts. I got caught in a maul of boys and Mr Rouse’s organ climbed towards the climax that signalled the new HM sweeping in, his gown trailing glory and the whole Great Hall agog. I had no time to extract myself from the press and find my seat in the staff area, so sat down amongst the lads. Straight off, the Head Master had the Chaplain speak to the school about Doc and the words touched me deeply; it seemed the right place to be to remember him, amidst those that he loved and who loved him back so much. I could not stop warm, fat tears dropping all over my hymn book. I can hear Doc’s response: ‘Come on, Grimshaw: for Chrissake’s get a grip.’ And then he would flash that sudden wry smile as he hobbled off for a Rothman’s. A.W. Grimshaw

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Farewell ...

TIM DAVIES

KEN FOUREY-JONES

KRISTA HOPKINSON

FIONA McEWAN-COX

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LOUIS GEARING

MARTIN HUGHES

ALISON QUAILE

JONNY SHELDON

ALAN BINNEY

Alan joined the School in October 2000 during Norman Cooley’s tenure as head groundsman. Alan had worked for many years as a BT engineer and at the time had no previous experience as a groundsman. During the interview process he emerged runnerup but, when the successful candidate declined, Alan got his chance. He quickly adapted to his new role as a part of the grounds team, showing himself to be willing to get involved with whatever the job demanded. In six months Norman left to work for the Bedford Blues, leaving Alan and me as the only full-time members of staff for the 2001 cricket season. The fact that we got through that season is a great tribute to Alan’s work ethic! Following this he rose to become my deputy in autumn 2002, a role he occupied until his retirement in August this year. I’m sure many of you will recall Alan sitting on the cricket roller during the summer term or leading the charge with the cricket covers on a rainy afternoon. Alan made a big impact on the grounds facility over a 14-year period and we wish him all the best in retirement. M. Hallsworth

MAUREEN BOCKHAM

Maureen retired from Bedford School in March 2014 after over 11 years as PA to the Bursar – firstly to Col Jack Stenhouse and then to the current Bursar, Caroline Godfrey. In those years Maureen proved to be an excellent source of information and advice to many staff and to the governing body, and she is much missed. In her retirement she will be spending time looking after her small grandson, carrying on with her hobby of scuba diving in various exotic locations and relaxing at home with her husband, Graham, and their three cats. We wish her a long and happy retirement. C.M. Godfrey

TIM DAVIES

For the past two years it has been customary to make references on all school occasions to Tim Davies’s youthful mien. Most speakers have succumbed to the temptation but The Ousel will try to refrain from cheap shots. The ‘jokes’ work, though, because Tim – in just two years – ensconced himself so firmly in all aspects of the school that he provided a touchstone for everyone here. He had a head start, of course. When I arrived in September 2012 I had some hope that I would be the dashing Old Bedfordian joining the common room. No such luck (it was always a forlorn hope to be honest). Tim had left Bedford a young, fresh-faced 18-year-old in 2009 and returned in 2012 just as fresh-faced with a philosophy degree from Nottingham University under his belt. He quickly proved to be a natural classroom practitioner and a popular member of the common room (though this popularity often expressed itself in the form of laments by older members that his arrival definitely marked their imminent retirement). Tim completed a PGCE while teaching a full timetable and throwing himself into a terrifying range of endeavours; no mean feat this.

On the sports field, Tim was a thoughtful and diligent rugby, hockey and tennis coach. You could always tell a Tim Davies hockey side: made in their coach’s image they were hard working, sometimes alarmingly so, and played with passion and ferocious – though always fair – competitiveness. Not that there wasn’t time for relaxation. Tim was the driving force behind the Tennis Club’s first trip to the Algarve for warm-weather training and sunbathing in true luxury; a successful trip that would not have happened without him. His love of hard physical work also saw him ‘help’ out on a number of Duke of Edinburgh trips, though whether the boys always welcomed his extortions to go faster and further, I have my doubts. He was, however, no one-trick pony. The stellar line-up of speakers Tim enticed to Bedford to talk to the boys of the Theology and Philosophy Society testify to this. That said, it’s easy to give a university professor a train fare, a bottle of wine and an invitation to baffle, or waffle, about the ‘Special Composition Problem’; harder is to get boys to turn out after rugby, orchestra practices and theatrical rehearsals. It was tribute to Tim’s popularity – and the thirst for knowledge he instilled in his students – that turn out they did. In large numbers. Again and again. It was, though, as a tutor that I – and others – found Tim most impressive. He threw himself into the role of assistant housemaster in Sanderson’s with zeal. Working alongside two (very) different housemasters, he learnt from both and was a constant presence in the life of the boarding house. He spurred on the boys to do more and to continually reflect and improve on their endeavours. Every single one of his tutees benefited greatly from his caring yet urgent regard for them. Tim leaves us to join Whitgift School in Croydon, his decision in part motivated by the desire to be closer to the bright lights of London and his partner, Helen. I have an inkling that we’ll see him again (he wears his OB tie too much for us not to), probably when Bedford next advertises for a new Head Master. Always sure of himself was Tim. He was a real presence in the school and we’ll miss seeing him about the place. Nice, though, to not always have to deal with youthful exuberance in the common room as well as the classroom … M.T. Herring

KEN FOUREY-JONES

After six years in the Design and Technology department as the technician, Ken Fourey-Jones retired from life at Bedford School. His wife, who works at Bedford Girls’ School, took retirement at the same time. Since then they have enjoyed a two-week holiday in Crete in September, followed by a trip to the Loire in October. They plan to cross the Channel regularly throughout their retirement, in order to visit Mrs Fourey-Jones’s parents. Ken is a boating fanatic and he hopes to launch his cruiser in April after a three-year refurbishment. He and his wife also intend to spend a good deal of time water-skiing. He has thoroughly enjoyed working at the school and says he has made many close friends during his time here. Since he lives close by, he hopes to pop in occasionally to help with the school’s grand prix car project: now that he has more time on his

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hands, he says he is determined to steer Bedford to victory in the next race! We wish him all the best in his retirement. E.E. Murray

LOUIS GEARING

Louis is one of those dying breeds of today’s world: a true gentleman. It has been said that the final test of a gentleman is his respect for those who can be of no possible service to him. Time and time again, we have seen this in action with Louis. He is the sort of man that would run to hold the door open for a student; the type to be part of a group devoted to committing an act of kindness every day. A gentleman would be ashamed should his deeds not match his words, and so it is with Louis. As I got to know him better, I soon found that the only thing that could enrage him is dishonest, foul play: when in the ‘Dome’, a ball struck a shoulder and was mistakenly called handball. Made mad by his lust for righteous vengeance, Louis proceeded to single-handedly destroy his unworthy opposition. Over the years, Louis has wholeheartedly devoted himself to the life of the school and the help of others. One quickly learns to ignore the multitude of modest comments he makes and instead look at his many actions. He has made an exemplary teacher in his time here, extending a helping hand to any who would learn. Many hours have passed in A13 with Louis patiently conversing with me in my broken French, something for which I am deeply grateful. He has also richly developed the sporting side of the school, being a talented sportsman himself. Many will leave with fond memories of his football coaching; he was always able to give advice in any situation, most of it significantly more complicated than ‘long ball’, much to my deep sadness. He was also a fine cricket coach and tutor in Crescent and Pemberley but, more importantly, a smiling, friendly face with a kind word to give each and every day. Louis leaves us, and his two-hour commute, to join Beaumont School in St Albans, where he will enjoy finishing his week’s work at 2.30 pm on a Friday. They are lucky to have recruited such a man: we wish him all the best. M.T. Hutchinson

KRISTA HOPKINSON

Krista Hopkinson joined our German department in September 2011 and soon proved to be a breath of fresh air, or rather an inexhaustible whirlwind. She threw herself into any challenge she could find, be it getting her Year 9s sorted or organising her hockey teams. Her ferocious loyalty to her tutor group was answered in kind and many a time did I have to close the door in the morning as the hilarity and chatter from her boys drifted down the corridor. Working with Krista was a delight, as it was impossible not to be cheered up when spending more than a few minutes in her presence. Her whirlwind qualities also extended to her social life, and she was keenly involved in ensuring that all new staff at the school had parties to go to. She would share many delightful stories of D of E expeditions or ski trips, and just as much of the

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enjoyment of these tales was in the telling as in the stories themselves. What impressed me, in particular, was that Krista was always up for trying her hand at something new. In a very memorable way, she decided to try out rowing, and with only a few weeks to prepare, she signed up for the Star Regatta last year. With expert coaching and a competent partner, her arduous training regime included swimming and recuperation at the Embankment and, with that typical light touch tenacity of hers, she then bounced down the course to an impressive finish. It might not have been first place, but it was still immensely enjoyable, and that sums up Krista. Krista has now followed her long-time ambition and returned to Germany, where she had already spent her first four years, catching the German bug at an early age. She will be teaching at the Frankfurt Metropolitan School, so in a matter of speaking, she turned into a Frankfurter, and how much more German than that can you get? F. Graeff

MARTIN HUGHES

To enter a chamber orchestra rehearsal in the past ten or so years was to see a group of boys fixed on Martin Hughes in rapt attention – ready to spring their bows into a lively baroque dance or luxuriate in a sweeping Romantic melody. Martin retired in July as Head of Strings at Bedford after many years of unfailing dedication, inspiration and brilliant music-making. Martin joined Bedford from the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama. He had experienced a professional career in which he performed with some of the world’s most eminent musicians, including Benjamin Britten, Simon Rattle and Pierre Boulez (just following your example with a bit of name-dropping, Martin!). While the transition to school music could have felt anticlimactic after such a career, Martin threw himself completely into the role at Bedford School and set about creating a thriving string department. Martin has a passion for education, and realised the importance of building the string department up from the roots, establishing a successful starter programme in the Prep School and inspiring the highest standards of individual and group performance throughout the school. Hugely enthusiastic and deeply knowledgeable about his instrument and its repertoire, Martin was and is an inspirational teacher. Approaching beginners with the same energy and musical integrity as diploma pupils, he enriched the lives of all those he taught, and several of his violin pupils progressed to music conservatoires post-Bedford. As a leader of school orchestras and ensembles, he was a hard taskmaster with a very clear idea of what he wanted and the knowledge of how to achieve it. He was a stickler for detail and would, I am told, sometimes not progress beyond the first bar of a piece in a rehearsal! When I first met Martin at a conference some years ago he was demonstrating different approaches to performing a Bach concerto with the school chamber orchestra. They first played in a deliberately dated Romantic style, then on his signal adjusted their bow grip and launched into a light, dancing baroque style of playing that was bristling with energy. Getting

such radically different performances from teenage boys is really impressive. Martin is a natural communicator on the violin and gave countless concerts as a soloist (including a complete Beethoven violin sonatas cycle), a member of the De Parys Trio and leader of the Phoenix and other orchestras. He was also to be found at the back of the seconds during second orchestra concerts, for which I was very grateful! It was obvious to anyone from the moment his bow touched the string that here was someone who immersed himself in the performance. His interest in early performing styles added a new dimension to the Music department. How does Martin view his achievements? ‘It’s hugely satisfying to see the boys achieve more than they thought possible’, he reflected recently. ‘The chamber orchestra can now tackle a much wider range of repertoire with the appropriate stylistic know-how … from Latvian composers Lutoslawski and Part to English 20th century works by Tippett and Britten, and all the way back to Monteverdi.’ When I asked colleagues and boys recently how they would describe Martin the same words cropped up time and time again: ‘commitment’, ‘energy’, ‘enthusiasm’, ‘irrepressible’. Looking at the healthy state of the string department at present, these qualities will leave a lasting legacy. We’re delighted that Martin and Jill remain part of the school community, at least in the short term, as they will both continue as part-time visiting music teachers. J.A. Rouse

FIONA McEWAN-COX

It is customary to commence valedictory articles by saying that it is an honour to pen them and in this case, it is certainly a privilege to write some words about Fiona’s time at the school. Anyone who has worked with Fiona will attest to her professional integrity and admire her, at times fierce, lack of patience for those who do not perform their roles in an equally professional manner. She is characterised by a belief that teachers hold a great burden of responsibility in their care for young people and that this trust should be honoured at all times. Her teaching displays a commitment to this trust and reflects her pragmatic approach where actions most certainly speak louder than words. Fiona came to Bedford School in 2000 from a boarding housemistress post in Cambridge as Head of Academic Support, teacher of English and visiting tutor in Burnaby house. Her sizeable contribution to the school is clear when ensuing posts are considered as she then became housemaster of St Peter’s (2003–12), senior undermaster (2005–06), senior day housemaster (2006–12) and Head of Staff Development (2012–14). Her ability to successfully lead the Academic Support department, which caters for numerous boys with a great range of needs, and supporting a team of teachers at the same time as taking a leading role in the school’s pastoral life speaks volumes for her industry and organisation. As a fellow head of department, I always valued Fiona’s

advice and her ability to see straight to the heart of the matter. The informal chats as our paths invariably crossed at the security gazebo often provided me with a chuckle and a much-needed boost in the midst of the inevitable term-time flux that is involved in the life of a busy school such as Bedford. As a member of the English department, I always found her to be constructive and supportive in her outlook. However, it is in the classroom where she draws greatest admiration: her ability to tailor her teaching to the needs of the students is more than impressive and her classroom is a place of activity where the student is at the heart of his learning – and this is how it should be. I know that Fiona will blush at these words of praise, such is her sense of humility, but they are well-deserved. She is an unassuming person who gets on with the task at hand and is never afraid to ask for advice or clarification. Fiona is assertive when needed to be and sensitive to the needs of others at other times: much of her best work is often to be seen counselling a colleague in a quiet corner of the common room or stopping a boy to see how his day is unfolding. Fiona’s view of schools as communities of learners is everappealing and universal. She leaves Bedford to become head of Years 10 and 11 at King Alfred School and I am certain the children and staff will quickly recognise that a unique person has quietly and purposefully entered their ranks. D.G. Ashton

ALISON QUAILE

Alison was at Bedford School for just over two years as the school accountant and made a huge impact with her unflappable and cheerful way of dealing with all matters arising. Staff respected her efficiency and very much appreciated her ‘can-do’ attitude. We wish her well as she commences as a bursar at a prep school in London. C.M. Godfrey

JONNY SHELDON

That Jonny arrived as a Short and left as a Sheldon, with few boys having batted an eyelid in the intervening period, is just one of the many idiosyncrasies that marked him out during his all too brief tenure at Bedford School. An intellectual everyman boasting an Oxford first and an employment history mainly consisting of those stores where everything is less than £1, Jonny is not one to be easily categorised. With contacts ranging from direct relations of military dictators to international table-tennis players and assorted convivial yeomen of the West Country, Jonny soon made his mark. His seemingly calm, studious exterior masks a steely determination and a basic love of arguing (and winning); he knows what he thinks and isn’t afraid to fight his corner when debating the big issues, such as the correct way to take a throwin and the need to start James Milner for England. In the latter case I happily joined him in the silent minority. We were also both hopeful about England’s chances at the 2014 World Cup, to

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the extent that the phrase ‘semi-final’ featured in one conversation. Another of Jonny’s characteristics: optimism. Alongside the England national team he is also passionate about board games. To quote Forrest Gump, ‘that’s all I have to say about that’. Jonny is an excellent teacher (or, to coin a phrase from the PGCE and NQT paperwork over which we shared so many happy hours, ‘Outstanding’) and for a while threatened to revolutionise the History department with his radical ideas about group work and poster displays; but then he left. He took the paperwork very seriously and emerged as a critical, reflective teaching practitioner, conversant with all the latest pedagogical paradigms and taxonomies, his love of educational theory and no-holesbarred lesson evaluations proving an inspiration to all. That last sentence may or may not be true. In all seriousness, Jonny is a teaching natural and he proved adaptable to the most trying of circumstances as, having initially taken on only a smattering of lessons as a GTA, he quickly progressed to over 30 periods per week. His classroom presence was quite remarkable; I’m not sure what he threatened them with but whatever it was, it worked. Really, his authority came from an ability to communicate expert subject knowledge in a way that resonated with his pupils. In his short time as a teacher he achieved the hardest thing of all: he made it look easy. Alongside Michael Hutchinson I was lucky enough to live with Jonny for a year, separated by a wall only a Bedford estate agent could consider substantial. Appropriately, we occupied the top floor of the town’s only openly Stalinist apartment building. Truly brutalist, Riverside Towers is a noted eyesore and it was not made more charming by an intermittent water supply and an alarming series of asbestos warnings that acted as a kind of reverse welcome upon our arrival. Still, it brought an imagined (Soviet) past to life and in that sense suited our needs. In fact we straddled an interesting ideological divide, looking down from our totalitarian turret over the golden arches of the High Street McDonald’s; Jonny was a keen patron and suffered surprisingly little for it. Jonny played a starring role in the staff football team and, to take nothing away from his fourth-form scheme of work (which I have heard is very good), it is in this capacity that we will miss him most. Aside from our weekly five-a-side sessions, in which he did eventually score a goal, we signed up to the North Bedfordshire FA Teachers’ League. Jonny’s stalwart performances drew rueful gasps of admiration from thwarted opponents as he contributed more than anyone else to a string of narrow victories and a prestigious top-four finish. The courage and steadfastness he displayed in that loneliest of positions, goalkeeper, was genuinely very impressive; for a while it seemed he would have a permanent black eye after rushing out to block a shot and taking a boot full to the face, but this was all in a night’s work for our doughty custodian. He displayed similar fortitude on his stag night in Bristol when faced with a teaspoon of cinnamon powder and, rather cruelly for a man as extravagantly and unexpectedly hirsute as Jonny, a set of waxing pads. Perhaps channelling the wise words of fellow goalkeeper Jens Lehmann – ‘If I have a lot of adrenaline in my body, that is helpful because I feel less pain’ – Jonny took it all in his stride.

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Jonny is a huge loss to the History and Classics departments. Pretty much anything could be thrown at him and he’d just carry on regardless, exuding competence and control with each flourish of his whiteboard marker. Having arrived as an ancient historian, archaeologist and ballroom dancer, he was soon delivering courses on the Israel–Palestine crisis, British and American politics, modern warfare and inter-war Europe. He will succeed just about anywhere (I saw him teach in Basingstoke and he was fine) but we suspect he might now be drawn deeper into the cloistered corridors and damp quadrangles of academia. Equally, he could end up building a school in Tanzania, or retreating to his much-loved sofa to pen a devastating critique on the ‘Visual, Auditory, Kinesthetic’ learner profile and contenting himself with trips to Cheltenham Town on a Saturday afternoon. Either way, he will do his bit towards making the world a better place. Jonny married the lovely Jo in 2013. A sizeable Bedford contingent was invited to Wiltshire for the big day but almost missed it due to a combination of poor timekeeping and, in the case of the geographers, such a confused approach to mapreading that they almost ended up in North London. Jonny didn’t appear to hold it against us and we hope he keeps in touch. He is a generous, thoughtful and humane person, hugely talented yet modest and unimpressed by ambition for its own sake. Jonny has been a great friend and colleague to many over his time at Bedford School and we wish him all the very best. M.W. Graham

KATHERINE WILLIAMS

Katherine has served the Prep School as the Headmaster’s PA for the past four years. She moves on to a new career in copywriting. She was always a friendly face at our many and varied events and was very supportive to staff. We wish her luck. I.J. Silk

SUPPORT STAFF

In the year the school also said farewell to a number of support staff, including Mohammed Malik, Anthony Lewis, Jonathan Choy and Sam Knott (ICT), Hollie Smith (External Affairs), Claire Sharples (PS Library) and Jon England (Estates). We are grateful to them all for their many and varied contributions to the school. C.M. Godfrey

and welcome ...

AFRICA FERRERO ALBERO

NICK ALLEN

BJORN BANTOCK

TOM BRETT

EDWARD CHARLTON

FRASER ELLIOTT

ANNETTE HICKEY

JAMES HINKINS

HELEN PATE

WILLIAM PETERS

REBECCA POINOT

SARAH PORTSMOUTH

KERRY ROCKALL

ELEANOR WILSON

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JAMES HODGSON

This year, Mr Hodgson joined us as Head Master of Bedford School. Before accepting the post, he was the Usher (senior deputy head) at Magdalen College School in Oxford. Mr Hodgson was educated at Wellington College – against whom we still have rugby matches – and during his time there proved himself to be an academic as well as a keen sportsman. He went on to study classics at Durham University and, having done so, worked as an accountant for Ernst & Mills in London. After a few years, he resumed study at Cambridge University and achieved his classics PGCE. This afforded him the opportunity to become a cricket blue – a member of Cambridge’s first team. After qualifying he spent six years teaching in Australia before returning to England as director of admissions and a boarding housemaster at Tonbridge. When I asked Mr Hodgson why he had chosen to come to Bedford, he said simply that ‘everything seemed right’. He went on to explain that he felt Bedford School provided an excellent place of study for all boys, placing value on academia, music and sports as well as having the benefit of an embedded boarding community. The latter comment seemed somewhat surprising until I learnt that Mr Hodgson had once accepted a promotion only on the condition that he could continue being a boarding housemaster: he is a keen advocate of boarding. It is also extremely apparent that Mr Hodgson is very invested in the boys as individuals, as well as the school itself: the pride he took in explaining to me his ‘open-door’ policy (in which he opens his door for any boy to come and talk to him each morning for a specified time period) epitomised this. In the first few weeks of Mr Hodgson’s tenure as Head Master, staff and boys have been vocalising their optimism. Mr Hodgson’s overtly friendly nature and well-received ideas lend themselves to such a positive reception. In light of the changes he has so far made, I asked him if he had a long-term plan for the school. He outlined his plans for a big push to raise the academic stature of the school. Mr Hodgson quoted a boy who came to see him during an opendoor session who said ‘we could all do better’. He fervently spoke of the importance of leaving school with no regrets, in any aspect of school life, and especially so in academia. Personally he says his biggest regret lies in not venturing into the musical side of school life when he was a boy. Mr Hodgson also aims to increase the school’s pulling power as a boarding school, with plans for a sizeable increase in international boarders, fortifying the enriched diverse community we currently have. I hope Mr Hodgson and his wife, Rachel, have settled into Bedford School life as happily as they appear to have done, and we wish him the best for the upcoming year. So where is it that you’re likely to find Mr Hodgson this upcoming year? Almost certainly either talking to the boys over breakfast, watching a school cricket match or at a school production. Joshua Wellington, head of school

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AFRICA FERRERO ALBERO

Africa joined the school in September 2014 as the Spanish assistant. She was educated in Spain in a mixed Catholic school. She was fortunate enough to remain at the same school from age six until she was 18 – in much the same way that some of our boys are lucky enough to attend Bedford School from year three until sixth form. From school she went on to university in her home city, where she studied English primary education. She finished her degree last June and was offered a job here at Bedford School. She aspires to be a teacher in the future, and has some experience in private tutoring. She has also worked at English summer camps and has done volunteering with autistic and homeless children in Africa. In her spare time she enjoys playing handball, a game she has played for 12 years, and was disappointed to discover that there was no handball team at Bedford School! However, this is where her disappointment with her new post ends – she is thoroughly enjoying her life in Bedford so far and has been pleasantly surprised by how friendly and welcoming everyone is. We wish her a very successful and enjoyable time at Bedford School. E.E. Murray

NICK ALLEN

Nick Allen joined Bedford School in September and leads a nomadic existence shuttling between the History department and the Classics department. He graduated from Nottingham University with a degree in ancient history, having attended Kingston Grammar School in London. Nick informs The Ousel that he had always intended to turn his hand to teaching but had thought it might be slightly further down the line. A brief stint in the property sector convinced him that sooner was better than later! Having completed nearly half a term at the time of writing, Nick tells us that he’s delighted he made the jump. Nick seems destined to spend a lot of his time at Bedford in transit: as mentioned he commutes from the History department on the D floor to the Rice building several times a day – gaining an appreciation for the boys’ complaints that few members of the common room share – but in addition to this, the river calls out to him. As befits a six-foot-plus chap who attended school by the River Thames, Nick is a keen rower and has already been involved with assisting those hardy souls who brave the river in the winter term. He says that he is very much looking forward to success with the Boat Club in the next few years. It’s not all water-based, though: Nick has also had the pleasure of coaching the U14 3rd game rugby boys. This, apparently, dovetails perfectly with his rugby experience! Off the sports field (or river), Nick says that he has been struck by the plethora of activities on offer at Bedford and is looking forward to getting to know a boarding house in his capacity as visiting tutor at Phillpotts. We, naturally, wish him all the best for his time at Bedford. M.T. Herring

BJORN BANTOCK

Bjorn joined Bedford School as Head of Strings in September 2014. His musical education has taken him to many far-reaching places, including Stellenbosch (where he was part of the Conservatoire at the Music University), Amsterdam (where he played in the Royal Conservatoire) and, slightly less glamorously, Manchester (where he studied at the Royal Northern College of Music). His teaching experience has also be varied and extensive: he has previously taught at both Westminster School and Haberdasher’s Askes’. He is thoroughly enjoying his time at Bedford School – in particular he has been impressed by the common room coffee machines, as well as the delicious honey and yogurt puddings at lunch! He has also enjoyed meeting and teaching many of Bedford School’s talented musicians. Outside school he is kept busy by his young family. He and his wife, Hanja (who is a professional pianist), have two sons: Neo who is six and Finn who is five. During his spare time he enjoys sailing, photography, squash and he is ‘obsessed with roasting raw meat over burning embers on sunny days off’! We wish him every success in his career here. E.E. Murray

TOM BRETT

Tom joins Bedford School as a graduate teaching assistant. His main sporting passion is cricket. After leaving school he was on the books at Northamptonshire Cricket Club. After six years in the academy he signed as a professional in 2010. He was then lucky enough to spend two winters in Perth and one in Melbourne, both playing and coaching his beloved game. He has also found the time to go on two tours, one to South Africa and one to India. Despite these illustrious trips, he still says his 'cricketing highlight' was featuring on Sky Sports 1 in a match against Yorkshire. So far he is thoroughly enjoying the friendly atmosphere he has encountered at Bedford School, and is having fun living with Mr Peters! We wish Tom well for his time here. E.E. Murray

EDWARD CHARLTON

Edward joined the English department in September 2014 with a comprehensive set of qualifications under his belt. He did an undergraduate degree in English literature at the University of Sheffield. He followed this up with an MA at King’s College London. Yet still his appetite for learning was not satisfied, so he embarked on a PhD at the University of Cambridge where, among other things, he was responsible for the supervision of undergraduates. From Cambridge to Bedford School, and Edward is thoroughly enjoying his time here, in particular the lively debates he is witnessing on Fridays at the school Debating Society. We hope he continues to find his time here both enjoyable and fulfilling. E.E. Murray

THE MAGAZINE OF BEDFORD SCHOOL AND THE OLD BEDFORDIANS CLUB

YASO DHAHARAJ

Yaso joins the IT department. He is a qualified IT professional with over eight years of technical experience, including deploying and managing IT infrastructure systems. He started working in IT after completing his bachelor’s engineering degree in computer science. His work experience includes server virtualisation and migrations, AD restructuring and site-to-site VPN creation. He enjoys studying and converting hands-on experience into certification and is currently looking forward to completing his VMware View VCP certification as soon as possible. Yaso is Sri Lankan and has been happily married for over four years to Thakcha. They have a two-year-old child called Haresh. They have lived in Milton Keynes for the past five years and his hobbies include listening to music, doing yoga and swimming. C.M. Godfrey

FRASER ELLIOTT

Fraser studied mathematics at Downing College, Cambridge, where he specialised in astrophysics in his final year. Much to Bedford School’s benefit, he decided to move straight into a career in teaching, joining as a Mathematics teacher in September 2014. The department was impressed by his natural talent for teaching when he came to interview; an impression which has proved correct, as Fraser has settled quickly and easily into his new role. He, in turn, has been impressed by the ‘polite, bright students’, as well as the new IT systems installed in the Mathematics department over the summer. Personally I am grateful for his presence down the hall, as I have to call on his expertise numerous times throughout the day when my own ITincompetence rears its head. Outside school Fraser is a keen Tottenham fan … for that, we must try to forgive him. We wish him (but not his football team) a successful time over the coming years. E.E. Murray

STEPHEN FENDER

Steve joined Bedford School’s maintenance team as a plumber/handyman in April this year. Before this he ran his own property maintenance company after working as a manufacturing engineer for 22 years where he was responsible for the integration of HP servers and rack systems used in the printing industry. Steve lives in Bromham with his wife and two daughters aged 21 and 18. His hobbies include fishing, badminton and canoeing and his love of walking takes him to the Lake District every summer. S.R. Pocock

ANNETTE HICKEY

Mrs Hickey has worked in the Upper School library for just over a year now. She has a son, Daniel, who is currently in the lower sixth studying for the IB. Being a local girl, Bedford School has always been known to her: she has an uncle and two cousins

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who were pupils here, too. She was thrilled to be offered the position in the library after 25 years raising four sons, and pleased that her computer skills had kept pace with, and even exceeded, expectations in today’s working environment. Annette gained those skills at home to keep herself organised with the volunteer work that she is involved with. These activities include Girl Guiding (Brownies) and for, the past ten years, being part of the Bedford Pantomime Company production team. She is also involved with the Bedford Film Festival and TEDxBedford. It is clear that she is enthused by community, and she remarked that ‘Bedford School (as has also been observed by our new Head Master) is a strong and vibrant community that I am proud be part of’. L.E. Harrison

JAMES HINKINS

James joined the school in September 2014 as master in charge of rugby. Having been educated at Dover Grammar School for Boys and then De Montfort University, he moved on to a career in teaching. He has formerly worked at Cedars Upper School and Redborne Upper School, but was very excited to take up his post here at Bedford School. When I asked him what he likes the most about his new job, rugby didn’t actually feature. Instead he told me that he has particularly enjoyed the three-course lunches on offer. He has also been impressed by what he describes as the ‘positive atmosphere’ among both boys and staff. He did add that he is greatly enjoying the challenge of developing the sport he is so passionate about with such a capable group of boys. Outside school James has his hands full with his three-year-old daughter and seven-month-old son. We wish him the best of luck for the seasons to come. E.E. Murray

RAJ KALSI

Rajpal, known as Raj, joined the IT department in December 2013. He began his working life studying mechanical engineering as a modern apprentice at Dunstable College. He then moved to become a computer-aided engineering technician at Central Bedfordshire College while studying for his degree in the evenings. Career progression saw him become a systems engineer at Milton Keynes College and then to AirWatch in Milton Keynes as a professional services and support consultant. All this experience has been invaluable for his role as a support engineer here at Bedford School. Raj is happily married to Simran and hobbies include watching Formula 1 and rugby, and making aircraft models. C.M. Godfrey

HELEN PATE

Helen has joined Bedford School as a teacher in the increasingly busy Geography department. She is an experienced teacher, having worked in schools in both London and, more recently, Olney. As well as teaching geography she is looking forward to helping with Duke of Edinburgh expeditions. Outside school she

likes to run, read and, when she gets the chance, to surf. We wish her a very enjoyable time here at Bedford School. E.E. Murray

WILLIAM PETERS

As a schoolboy William went to RGS Guildford, after which he studied at both Durham and Cambridge universities. Upon leaving university he trained as a teacher and came to work at Bedford School, joining us in September 2014. Bedford was the perfect school for him as he loves playing and coaching sport. His rugby career was cut short by a future Harlequins player (who kneed William in the shoulder, injuring him quite badly). He therefore turned his attention to the football pitch where (I quote) he reinvented himself and ‘became Mr “Skills” Peters’. He is also a very keen skier and has competed at a high level in both downhill and freestyle disciplines. He also loves watching sport and, for his sins, he is a keen Newcastle United fan. His interests are not confined to sport. His favourite pastime is, in fact, watching films, and he tries to watch around three a week – I will be highly impressed if he can maintain this level of cultural education during term time! As a result of his interest in film, he is well known for his geeky movie-trivia knowledge, so I would encourage you to sign him up for your quiz team. He also enjoys singing and is looking forward to singing in the Choral Society’s performance of Mozart’s Requiem. We wish him success and happiness as he embarks on his career here. E.E. Murray

REBECCA POINOT

Rebecca completed both her high school and university education in France and the Netherlands. She also taught at the Maison Départementale de l’enfance (the ‘House of Childhood’) before joining us at Bedford School as the French language assistant. She is thoroughly enjoying her time here and says that everyone has been incredibly welcoming and friendly towards her. Outside school she enjoys music and cinema. We wish her a happy and successful time at Bedford School. E.E. Murray

SARAH PORTSMOUTH

Sarah was educated in West Berkshire and then graduated from the University of Birmingham with a degree in French and drama. During her time at university she spent a year at Aix-Marseille Université in Aix-en-Provence, France. She previously worked as a sixth form learning mentor at Kennet School in Berkshire. She has joined Bedford School in the Drama department: as a self-professed ‘thesp’, this is a place where the feels very at home! She is an alumna of the National Youth Theatre of Great Britain, and spends much of her free time in and around theatres. In particular, she has a passion for Shakespeare. She loves cooking and baking, and her favourite way to spend an evening is watching The Great British Bake Off with a good glass of red wine. She also has a passion for travel and, during one of her adventures, she managed to find the time (and courage) to jump out of a plane flying at 12,000 feet!

When asked about her time so far at Bedford School she told me that the ‘opportunities seem endless’. In particular she is very excited at the thought of the new theatre getting up and running. She is also looking forward to getting involved in some trips, the first of which will be a ski trip to Austria with year 3 in March. Given that she is an absolute novice skier, she fears that this trip could prove to be very embarrassing for her. We wish her the best of luck, both at Bedford School and on the ski slopes … E.E. Murray

KERRY ROCKALL

Kerry started at Bedford School at the beginning of the summer term as the Bursar’s assistant, and found herself quickly involved in many different tasks, from arranging for honours board updates to organising meetings for governors. Kerry had previously worked as a PA to a regional director of a major bank before taking a sabbatical to be involved as a ‘games maker’ at the London 2012 Olympics. In her spare time Kerry is clerk to the governing body at a local lower school and she still enjoys singing with the games-makers’ choir. She is married to Dean and has two grown-up children. C.M. Godfrey

PIERRE SHOTBOLT

Pierre joined Bedford School’s security team in March this year having worked at Bedford Girls’ School as a minibus driver since 2012. Prior to this he had retired from Bedfordshire police force after 31 years’ service and then held a civilian role within the force for a further five years. Pierre lives with his family in Box End, Kempston, and his hobbies include golf, reading and gardening. S.R. Pocock

ELEANOR WILSON

Eleanor has joined Bedford School as the new musician in residence. She studied music at Christ's College, Cambridge. After she graduated she became the musician in residence at Pipers Corner School in Buckinghamshire, from where she joins us. Aside from music, she enjoys watching the Great British Bake Off, reading and going to the theatre. She is thoroughly looking forward to house singing (we hope she knows what she is letting herself in for!) and, diversely, watching her first ever live rugby match! We hope Eleanor enjoys the music, the rugby and the many other experiences she has during her time at Bedford School. E.E. Murray

THE MAGAZINE OF BEDFORD SCHOOL AND THE OLD BEDFORDIANS CLUB

THE OUSEL 2013–2014

THE 2014 BOY LEAVERS The 2014 leavers were a superb year group who exceeded expectations in terms of their academic, sporting and musical achievements. Particular mention should be made of those boys who came right the way through the school, from year 3 to the upper sixth â&#x20AC;&#x201C; they are depicted below. We wish all of the 2014 leavers the best of luck as their embark upon university studies and gap years.

THE SURVIVORS Back row: Edward Sharrock, Joseph Ayling, Dylan Parmar, Rupert Oakley, Matthew Beal, Dominic Hart, Charlie Campbell-Gray, Kushal Kansagra, Jacob Stephenson, Alexander Ciuro, Arran Chand, Alex Garcha, Sebastian Clements, Benjamin Nethersole and Stephen Fahmy Front row: Richard Watson, Joshua Jenkins, Matthew Gouldesbrough, Diane McAskill (staff), Nicholas Chapman, James MacTavish, Oliver Lyons, Oliver Wetton, James Phillips, Andrew Whitbread (staff), Arvindh Sekaran, Thomas Hall, Louise Thomas (staff) and Rory McCracken On the slide: Rahil Naidoo, Sam Assim, James Lee and Alex Dorgham

THE MAGAZINE OF BEDFORD SCHOOL AND THE OLD BEDFORDIANS CLUB

SYED ALI (StP) 3rd XI hockey (colours), Charities Committee, BSMA, Bedford School Dental Society (co-lead), Current Affairs Society (co-lead), Harpur Science Forum

SAM BARKES (Ash)

GEORGE BURTON (Pau) 3rd XI hockey (colours), fencing (captain, colours), head of house, Prep School DT mentor

ANSON CHENG (Bur) The Ousel photographer, Young Enterprise, Photography Club, Media Group, Movember video producer

EDWARD ARBE-BARNES (Ash) Monitor, Harpur Science Forum (chairman), BSMA (chairman), Debating Society (chairman), drama (Lord of the Flies, French play, Spanish play), academic colours, Mitre Club, Young Enterprise

NURDAULET BAZYLBEKOV (Bur) Head of house, swimming, water polo, gym

THOMAS CALDON (Bro) 1st XI football (vice-captain), English Society

TONY CHEUNG (Bur) Swimming (colours), water polo (vice-captain), school band, Mosaic Society, Young Enterprise

PAAN ARKARSLUENG (Bur) 4th XI football, basketball, tennis, Young Enterprise, Economics Society, Business Society, Chess Club

MATTHEW BEAL (Ash) Head of house, academic colours, rowing (colours), Debating Society, Pythagoreans, Economics Society, Harpur Science Forum, Tours Team

ZACH CARTER (Bro) 1st XV rugby (colours, vicecaptain), 1st VIII rowing (colours, captain), rugby sevens

RAIDEN CHO (Pem) Academic colours, badminton (colours), BSMA, Harpur Science Forum, house prefect, house photographer

SAM ASSIM (Cre) Deputy head of school, 2nd XV rugby (captain, colours), 1st XV rugby, 3rd XI football, academic colours, house colours, Head Master’s scarf, Grease

GEORGE BIRD (Pau) 3rd XI hockey (colours), Prep School DT mentor, Harpur Science Forum, CCF (senior NCO), Tours Team

HARRY CAVILL (Ash) Politics Society, Theology and Philosophy Society, house events coordinator, house colours

JORDIE CHU (Tal) Media Club, Photography Club, Charities Committee

ALEX AXON (Red) Monitor, 2nd XV rugby (captain), 1st XI cricket, 1st XI hockey (colours), 2nd XI hockey (captain)

ALISTAIR BLAKE (Tal) Arts colours, Art Appreciation Society (secretary)

KEVIN CHAN (Phi) Chamber orchestra (leader), first orchestra (principal viola player), badminton, swimming

JUSTIN CHUNG (Phi) Music scholar, swimming, chamber orchestra (head), first orchestra, string quartet, music librarian

JOSEPH AYLING (StC) Rifle Club, deputy head of house, house colours, house fives

STANISLAW BRAMINSKI (Bro) Drama (If You’ll be Glad I’ll be Frank, The Tempest, A Christmas Carol), house drama 2012, 2013, 2014, stage crew, Fowles Essay prize winner, Art Appreciation Society (head), Mosaic Magazine (editor), English Society, Masterpiece of the Month writer

ARRAN CHAND (Bro) 1st XI football (colours), tennis, Economics Society, Philosophy and Theology Society

HARRY CHURCHILLCOLEMAN (Pau)

NICK CHAPMAN (Cre) Academic colours, Chapel Choir, Choral Society (head), first orchestra, Mitre Club (secretary), English Society (president), Classics Society (president), house colours

ALEXANDER CIURO (Bro) Tennis (captain, colours), 2nd XI hockey (colours), weights, Economics Society, house colours

ALISHER BAKYTBEKOV (Bur)

DOMINIC BRETT (Tal) Head of house, weights, fives, first orchestra, Choral Society TOM BANNER (Ash) 2nd XV rugby (colours), 3rd XI hockey (colours, captain), water polo (colours, captain), Philosophy and Theology Society, Economics Society, Geography Society, senior house option, house colours

CIAN BRITTLE (Ash) JEFF CHEN (Bur) 2nd XI football, 3rd XI cricket, 5th XV rugby (captain), deputy head of house, English Society (King of Prose)

SEBASTIEN CLEMENTS (StP) Monitor, 1st XI rugby (colours), rugby sevens, Economics Society (head), volleyball, weights

BOB BARFOOT (StC) 1st XI rugby (colours, honours cap), rugby sevens, 1st XI football, athletics

THOMAS BRUCE (Bur) Rowing (vice-captain of boats), German Society, German football team, head of house, house colours

MATTHEW CLOKE (San) 1st XI football (vice-captain, colours), athletics, 4th XV rugby (colours), Choral Society, Economics Society (head), Meals Committee

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BENSON CHEN (Tal) Badminton (colours), Photography Society, Mitre Club, Pythagoreans

MORGAN COLBECK (San) 2nd XV rugby (colours), school band, Mitre Club, Harpur Science Forum, academic house option

FABIAN COOPER (Pem) Monitor

MICHAL DZITKO (Red) Academic colours, basketball, fencing (captain, colours), Psychology Society (founder and head), New Music Society (founder and head), Wine Appreciation Society, Mitre Club, house colours LEONARD DZIWISCH (Bur) Canoe Club (captain, colours), Chapel Choir (librarian), Consort Choir, 5th XV rugby

MAX FORBERG (Pem) 3rd XI football, golf, German Society, Wine Appreciation Society, senior house prefect

KARAN GUPTA (Tal) TEDxBedfordSchool (founder), monitor, fives (captain), guitar ensemble, STEM Society (head), Adrian Boult Society (head), Chapel Clerk (head of Chapel reading), house option

ALEX GARCHA (Bro) 2nd XV rugby (colours), 2nd XI cricket, weights

THOMAS HALL (Ash) Monitor, rowing (colours), Harpur Science Forum, STEM Society, Pythagoreans

GEORGE COX (Bro) 1st XV rugby (colours), 2nd XI hockey (captain, colours), 2nd XI cricket (colours), head of house, Economics, Business Society (head)

HADLEY EAMES (StC) 1st XV rugby (colours), rugby sevens, 4th XI football, house colours, head of house committee, house drama, Meals Committee

TOM GARRATT (Bro) 1st XV rugby (colours), sevens rugby, 1st XI football (colours)

DOMINIC HART (StP) 2nd XI football, 3rd XI cricket

HARRY DAVID (Pau) 1st XI football (colours), 3rd XI cricket, deputy head of house

MARCUS EAMES (Pau) 1st XV rugby (colours), 3rd XI cricket, 4th XI hockey

PATRYK GAWLINSKI (Pau) Volleyball (captain), basketball, STEM Society, 1st XI and 2nd XI football

NICHOLAS HO (Bur) First orchestra (principal cellist), chamber orchestra, basketball, Choral Society

GUY DAVIS (Cre) 1st XV rugby (colours), 2nd XI cricket, rowing, school band, Harpur Science Forum committee, Big Geography Debate winner

ROBBIE EVANS (Pau) 5th XV rugby (captain), 3rd XI football, first orchestra, Prep School art enrichment mentor

SERGEY GERASIMOV (Tal) Swimming (captain, colours), water polo, Young Enterprise, Charities Committee (chairman), house option

DANIEL HOLDSWORTH (San) Basketball, Tai Chi, Astronomy Society (secretary), deputy head of house

JACK DIEMER (StC) 1st XV rugby, 2nd XV rugby (colours), 3rd XI hockey (colours), 3rd XI cricket (colours), CCF, STEM Society, deputy head of house

STEVEN FAHMY (Cre) Monitor, first orchestra, chamber orchestra, 3rd XI hockey, Mitre Club

MIKHAIL GLIK (Tal) Monitor, rowing, Pythagoreans (president)

TREVOR HUI (Bur) First orchestra, badminton team, Charities Committee

ALEX DORGHAM (Ash) Head of school, Charities Committee (head), Tours Team (head), BSMA (deputy head), 1st XV rugby (colours), tennis, 2nd XI hockey (colours), student teaching classes

CHRISTOPHER FALTER (Bur)

MATTHEW GOULDESBROUGH (Ash) Drama (Chatroom, The Tempest, Grease, A Christmas Carol), arts colours, house drama (writer and director in 2013 and 2014), house colours, LAMDA acting solo grade 8 gold medal (distinction)

MICHAEL JAMIESON (Ash) 1st XV rugby (colours), water polo, Tours Team, senior house monitor

BENJAMIN DUNLOP (Red) Golf (captain), 3rd XI hockey

FAYED FARRUKH (StP) 2nd XI cricket, BSMA (publicity officer), Harpur Science Forum, Charities Committee, Prep School maths enrichment

TOUWA DUNN (Bro) 2nd XI hockey, 4th XV rugby, athletics, deputy head of house, house colours

KEN CHEE FOONG (Bur)

MATHIEU GOVONI (Phi) Head of house, water polo (minor colours), 1st and 2nd XI football, athletics, 3rd XV rugby, Spanish Society, French Society, Wine Appreciation Society, silver DofE, Photography Club, house colours ILYA GULKO (Tal) Healthy Lifestyle Society (head), Young Enterprise (company secretary), Charities Committee, school Fairtrade coordinator, rowing, house colours

JOSHUA JENKINS (Cre) Fencing (vice-captain), stage crew

KUSHAL KANSAGRA (StC) Monitor, tennis (captain, colours), squash (captain, colours), Mitre Club, academic colours

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BILLY KONG (San) Badminton (colours), 5th XV rugby, school band, Astronomy Society

JAMES LOEWENTHAL (Tal)

BENJAMIN MAZIN (Bur)

BENJAMIN NETHERSOLE (StP) 1st XV rugby (club captain, colours, honours cap), 1st XI hockey (vice-captain, colours), 3rd XI cricket (captain), house sports captain

FILIP KOZERA (Bur) Young Enterprise, Spanish play, 3rd XI football, house committee

CALLUM LOGAN (Cre) 2nd XI football, 4th XV rugby (colours), head of house

RORY McCRACKEN (Pem) 2nd XV rugby, 2nd XI football, Wine Appreciation Society, deputy head of house

FELIX JUNBONG NG (Bur) Basketball

GRANT LAWRENCE (Pau) Monitor, 1st XI hockey (captain, colours, honours cap), fencing, indoor hockey

VINCENZO LOMBARDO (San) Monitor, head of house, 2nd XV rugby (colours), 3rd XV rugby (captain), rowing, CCF, Historical Society (head)

AARON MERAI (Pem) Music scholar, 2nd XI football, first orchestra, brass ensemble, dance band, Harpur Science Forum, Adrian Boult Society, Music Society, house colours

NIGEL NG (Phi) Fencing, badminton (colours), Charities Committee

MAX LAWSON (San) Water polo (colours), 3rd XV rugby (captain), 3rd XI hockey (vice-captain), tennis

OLLIE LYONS (Pau) FANSHAN MIN (Bur) Monitor, 1st XV rugby Basketball (captain, colours), (captain, colours, honours table tennis, swimming cap), sevens rugby (captain), 2nd XI hockey (vice-captain), 1st and 2nd XI cricket

THITIKORN NGAMPAKDEEPANICH (Bur) Swimming (colours, secretary), Rifle Club, crosscountry (captain), water polo

JAMES LEE (StC) 1st XV rugby (colours), 1st XI hockey (vice-captain, colours), rugby sevens, Economics Society (head), Politics Society (head), house sports captain

JAMES MacTAVISH (StP) First orchestra, chamber orchestra, Choral Society (head), arts colours, Music Society (vice-president)

HARRY MOK (Phi) Badminton (colours)

TERRENCE LEE (Red) Swimming (vice-captain, colours), water polo, dance band, Harpur Science Forum, badminton

DANIIL MALKIN (Bur) Tennis, gym

GUY MONNINGTON (Phi) 5th XV rugby, basketball, Choral Society, house singing (conductor)

RUPERT OAKLEY (Bro) Monitor, 3rd XV rugby (captain, colours), Philosophy and Theology Society (secretary), Tours Team, Harpur Debating Society (joint chairman), Veterinary Medicine Association (founder and chairman), Fairtrade Committee (joint chairman), CCF (head of competitions)

YURI LELIKOV (Red) Fives (vice-captain), volleyball (vice-captain), 3rd XV rugby, Young Enterprise (managing director)

TOM MARLOW-GILKS (Bro) JOE MORGAN (StP) Rowing (vice-captain of Senior monitor, Mitre Club boats), deputy head of house (president), academic colours, tennis, squash, TEDx organiser, Everest expedition participant, Young Enterprise (financial director)

LUCA O’CLEIRIGH (StC) 1st XI football, tennis, squash, head of house committee, house colours

JULIEN LEROY (Pem)

BOBBY MARTIN (Cre) CCF (head of Army), sailing (captain), 3rd XI hockey (colours), deputy head of house

RAHIL NAIDOO (StC) 2nd XV rugby (colours), squash (secretary), tennis, Harpur Science Forum (secretary)

EDDIE PARKIN (StC) Monitor, 1st XV rugby (colours, honours cap), BSMA, Tours Team, house committee

QIANYI LI (Bur)

SAMSON MAU (Phi) Badminton (colours), STEM Society

BENEDIKT NESSELER (Tal) 1st XI hockey (colours), Economics Society, German Society, STEM Society, head of house, German rugby (captain), indoor hockey (captain)

DYLAN PARMAR (Tal) 3rd XI hockey (colours), BSMA, Harpur Science Forum, Pythagoreans, Tours Team (senior tour guide), house option, house colours

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CONNOR O’BRIEN (StC) 3rd XV rugby, 2nd XI football (captain), athletics, bronze DofE, house captain

JAMES PHILLIPS (Ash) 1st XV rugby (colours, honours cap), 4th XI football (captain), Movember, house sports captain

ARVINDH SEKARAN (Cre) Chamber orchestra, first orchestra, 2nd XI football, Harpur Science Forum (senior committee member), BSMA (lecturer)

JACOB STEPHENSON (StP) CCF (deputy head of corps), rowing, BSMA (chairman), Music Society, academic scholar, school band, Harpur Science Forum (committee member)

OLIVER WETTON (StP) Monitor, 1st XV rugby (colours), rugby sevens, 2nd XI football, volleyball

WOLFGANG PIRLET (Bur) 5th XV rugby (Heald Trophy for best player in the team), dance band, brass ensemble, golf, house committee, German Society

ASHIL SHAH (Ash) 2nd XI cricket (colours), fives, 3rd XI hockey, TEDx, house colours, Tours Team

CHRISTOPHER STOKEY (Pau) 5th XV rugby, Photography Club (head)

JAMIE WHITE (Cre) 3rd XV rugby, 3rd XI hockey, Everest Base Camp expedition, tennis (colours), electric guitar, Prep School enrichment, house committee

JACK PUDDICOMBE (Ash) 2nd XV rugby, 3rd XI football, 3rd XI cricket, STEM Society, Tours Team

EDWARD SHARROCK (StC)

RYAN SWALLOW (Phi) Senior monitor, 2nd XV rugby (colours), 2nd XI football (vicecaptain), golf, house colours, Wine Appreciation Society, Geography Society

CHARLIE WILSON (Bro)

PETER RAMSBOTHAM (StP) 2nd XI football, tennis, Tours Team, house colours

MARCUS SIOW (Red) BEN THRASHER (Bro) Basketball (captain), head of house, Charities Committee, maths mentoring, Tours Team

LUKE WILSON (Red) Brass ensemble, Chapel Choir, Mitre Club, Harpur Debating, head of house, Music Society (president), arts colours, Head Master’s scarf

CHARLIE ROBERTS (Bro) 1st XV rugby (colours, ‘Most Improved Player’), 1st XI football (captain, colours), sevens rugby, weights

MAXIM SKAVRONSKIY (Tal) CHARLIE THURSTON (Cre) Monitor, 1st XI cricket (captain, colours), squash

NIKOLAS WITTEK (Bur) Squash, tennis, STEM Society (secretary)

ARCHIE RUSH (Red) 1st XI hockey (colours), first orchestra, chamber orchestra, 3rd XV rugby, head of house, arts colours, Head Master’s scarf

JAMES SKIRROW (StP) JAMES TRUSTRAM EVE (Bur) Head of house, sevens rugby Rowing, house colours, house (colours), 2nd XV rugby committee (colours), 2nd XI cricket (vice-captain, colours), 2nd XI hockey, Tours Team, Art Appreciation Society (deputy head)

ROBB WRIGHT (Bro) 1st XI hockey (colours), 1st XI cricket

JAY-JAY SAINT (StP) Fives, Politics Society, Philosophy Society, Library Development Committee, house colours

ADRIAN SO (Tal) 4th XI football, Charities Committee, Photography Club

PHILIP TSANG (Pem) Arts colours, Art Appreciation Society, swimming

WILLIAM WRIGHT (Pau)

IVAN SAVELEV (Pem) 2nd and 3rd XI football, German football team, senior house prefect, house colours

BEN SPENCER (Bro) 1st XI hockey (colours), volleyball

HENRY WALSH (StP) 2nd XV rugby (colours), Philosophy and Theology Society (president), deputy head of house, 3rd XI football

GIAN ZINNGREBE (Bur) 5th XV rugby, 4th XI football, dance band, school band, house committee, house colours, German Society (head)

ZAKK SCORER (Bro)

JOSH STEEL (StC) RICHARD WATSON (StC) STEM Society, house colours 3rd XI hockey (colours), Mitre Club, Pythagoreans

THE MAGAZINE OF BEDFORD SCHOOL AND THE OLD BEDFORDIANS CLUB

BEDFORD SCHOOL SPORT THE LANGHAM GRID

RUGBY Won 14 6 3 4 1 16 6 5 0 11 8 11 4 5 6 2 2 104

1st XV 2nd XV 3rd XV 4th XV 5th XV Colts A Colts B Colts C Colts D U15 A U15 B U15 C U15 D U14 A U14 B U14 C U14 D Totals

CRICKET Drawn 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 4

Lost 5 5 10 7 6 0 5 4 4 9 3 2 3 6 4 8 5 86

HOCKEY 1st XI 2nd XI 3rd XI 4th XI Colts A Colts B U15 A U15 B U15 C U14 A U14 B U14 C U14 D Totals

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Won 5 7 3 3 2 3 3 6 2 0 0 2 0 36

Drawn 2 1 0 0 2 2 3 1 0 0 0 1 1 13

Lost 6 1 4 3 2 4 3 1 5 7 7 2 4 49

1st XI 2nd XI 3rd XI 4th XI Colts A Colts B U15 A U15 B U15 C U14 A U14 B U14 C U14 D Totals

Won 17 8 1 0 1 0 7 5 6 7 5 5 2 64

Drawn 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1

Lost 2 3 4 2 2 1 2 3 0 4 2 2 3 30

ASSOCIATION FOOTBALL 1st XI 2nd XI 3rd XI 4th XI Colts A Colts B U15 A U15 B Totals

Won 7 3 7 5 5 5 3 2 37

Drawn 1 0 0 1 1 0 1 1 5

Lost 1 4 1 1 0 1 1 3 12

At the suggestion of John Langham (OB), we have introduced a summary of results for the three major sports (rugby, hockey and cricket) and association football. In his honour, it has been named the Langham Grid.

RUGBY THE MAGAZINE OF BEDFORD SCHOOL AND THE OLD BEDFORDIANS CLUB

THE FIRST FIFTEEN The familiar red jerseys are mentioned as far back as 1881, when it was decreed that all who had played for the team in any ‘foreign’ (away) match would be entitled to a red jersey, with a blue eagle on it for those who had their colours. It is with this snippet of our sporting history in mind that I report on another excellent season for the 1st XV. A final ‘domestic’ tally of played 11, won seven, drawn one and lost three, with 274 points scored and 201 conceded, is a fair reflection of the strength of the side, playing on one of the hardest circuits in the country. The boys can take their place in the school history books alongside some exceptional teams from recent years and the XVs from days gone by. It is also worth noting that the XV were extremely proud to remain unbeaten at home during the campaign. Following a highly successful tour to Australia in July, where four out of five matches were won, and a final appearance at the St Albans pre-season tournament, Oundle were the first opponents for the ‘regular’ season. On a sunny September day at home, in front of a few hundred Old Boys, a final score of 50–10 was no less than the team deserved. They dominated the game following a slightly nervous opening in which the visitors had taken the lead. The XV had the upper hand in the initial exchanges against a limited, but combative Uppingham team. However, some lapses in concentration in defence somehow allowed the home side to steal a lead which was never to be surrendered. Although the boys played some enterprising attacking rugby to score three tries – captain Ollie Lyons with two and wing Bob Barfoot with the other – a final score of 17–24 pretty much told the story of a frustrating afternoon. In a 36–17 victory over Harrow, the Bedford side played with a great deal of fluency to run out (relatively) comfortable winners. Barfoot, Eddie Parkin, Paddy McDuell, Ollie Wetton and Lyons scored the tries, which were supplemented by the consistent boot of McDuell. This outcome was especially pleasing for the upper sixth, given the result at Harrow the previous year. Stamford and Oakham were the next visitors in quick succession. Two enterprising and entertaining matches brought about a couple of very pleasing, if narrow, wins (22–17 and

THE OUSEL 2013–2014

27–22 respectively) which kept the momentum of the season going. However, due to a plethora of injuries, a much depleted XV travelled to Dulwich for the final game of the half-term. The makeshift side recovered briefly from a slow start with an excellent try from Barfoot, but were ultimately very much second best in all departments. A final score of 7–43 was no less than the home team deserved. The return of some injured players and the introduction of some of the outstanding Colts team, gave the squad a great deal of confidence as they moved on to the notoriously tough St Joseph’s Festival. Winning performances on day one against Merchiston (Edinburgh), RGS Newcastle and Brighton were very pleasing from a coaching perspective and demonstrated the progress made by the senior squad and the quality of the Colts’ boys. This put the team into the main (cup) competition on day two, to face Solihull, RGS High Wycombe and Millfield. One win out of three games (in a group which was eventually won on points difference) on the day, did not do justice to the quality of rugby that we played. The weekend once again confirmed our standing as one of the leading schools in the country and certainly one (of only a few) that like to play with real width and pace. To commence the second half of the term, the XV travelled to Warwick and, although the boys kicked off by playing some physical and entertaining rugby, the team found themselves 0–17 down a couple of minutes into the second half. However,

three superb tries from Charlie Roberts (two) and George Furbank brought them back into the game and ultimately earned an exciting and well-deserved 22–22 draw. The visit of Radley we knew would provide another tough physical examination for the players. They reacted by producing their best performance of the campaign to date, to record a five-try, 31–0 victory, the scores coming from Roberts, McDuell, Zach Carter, Lyons and Barfoot. Even with a late arrival and a 0–7 deficit after 30 seconds, the boys played some superb stuff at Rugby to score four excellent tries (Roberts, Barfoot, Lyons and Tom Garratt), but ultimately lost out by the narrowest of margins (26–27). A committed home outfit made the most of their opportunities during the game and held on in the dying moments to come away with the spoils. The final match, at home to Stowe, was a pleasure to watch. The atmosphere was superb and the general quality of the game was very high. The speed and accuracy of our attacking play was impressive and it was great to see Seb Clements, Barfoot and Lyons score superb tries on their final appearances for the XV. Furbank added two conversions and a crucial penalty with the boot, to give a highly satisfying final scoreline of 22–14, which was a fitting end to the campaign. On reflection, the XV can be extremely satisfied with a season in which several good sides were beaten and the level of performance was exceptional at times. The way the boys responded after the heavy defeat to Dulwich was a testament to the character of the squad and their desire to improve individually and collectively. The Stowe and Radley games were the highlight for me, as we

played a style of rugby that was quite simply ‘a joy to watch’, against competent and wellorganised sides. No 8 Lyons was exceptional every week from a playing perspective and a strong captain. A solid and workmanlike front five – made up of a combination of James Phillips, Michael Jamieson, Ajay Momi, Josh Wellington, Alex Dorgham, Angus Gill and Marcus Eames – worked extremely hard in the loose and supplied decent set-piece ball throughout the campaign. Clements showed his versatility and commitment to

play a key role in almost all positions in the pack. Flankers Guy Davies, Hadley Eames and Carter worked tirelessly to ensure continuity and were tough to beat. Eddie Parkin and Michael Morris shared the season at ‘9’ and were consistent in every game. Paddy McDuell at fly-half has

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superb skills and improved his game management immeasurably over the term and will be a key member of the XV for next season. The centre combinations of Garratt, George Cox and Zakk Scorer, with the ever-present player of the season, Furbank, proved to be an attacking threat in every game and were solid in defence. They were supplemented by a back three ‘squad’ of Barfoot, James Lee, Roberts, Wetton and Ben Nethersole who received lots of ball and, to their credit, scored lots of tries. It was an absolute pleasure to coach such a receptive and committed group as these, and I thank them for a really enjoyable term. The desire to win was astounding, and the pride

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felt by all the boys in pulling on the ‘familiar red shirt’ was there for all to witness. My thanks also go to Paul Larkin and Gregor Gillanders from The Blues, who did a superb job in helping coach the 1st game, and to Al Braithwaite for his sterling efforts with the 2nd XV. Within our school structure, we are afforded the time to be able to develop the skills and understanding required to play the game to a very high level. In my opinion, this is something that sets us apart from many other schools and from a sporting angle must be guarded very carefully. However, without the extraordinary commitment of the staff, none of this would be possible, and I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank all the rugby coaches for their time and expertise over the term. My thanks also go to Lucy and Sandra in the Bell Room, Mick and the security team, the ground staff and all in the medical centre and catering departments for their help in making the term run smoothly. 1st XV Awards: Honours Caps: O.C. Lyons (captain), R.A. Barfoot, Z. Carter, S.M.G. Clements, B.P.J. Nethersole, E. Parkin, J. Phillips and Z.D. Scorer Colours: G.J.C. Cox, G.J. Davies, A. Dorgham, H.M. Eames, M.P. Eames, G.A. Furbank, T.C. Garratt, A.J. Gill, M.J. Jamieson, J.J. Lee, P.R.J. McDuell, A.S. Momi, M.G. Morris, C.C. Roberts, J.A. Skirrow, J.J. Wellington and O.G.N. Wetton

THE SECOND FIFTEEN

House Match Winners: Under 14 St Peter’s Under 15 Ashburnham Under 16 Paulo Pontine Seniors Paulo Pontine Once again, the standard of play was excellent, and the commitment and skill level in all games was a credit to the boys, and a great advert for school sport. Alex Williams (Year 11) won the Carter Place-Kicking Cup and Wolfgang Pirlet won the Heald Cup for the best player in the 5th XV. B.J. Burgess

The 2nd XV had an indifferent season in terms of results, with six wins and five losses. However, this doesn’t reflect some of the performances we put in. We started well in the sun against Oundle, allowing some fast-paced rugby to be played with plenty of offloads. Rahil Naidoo managed to disrupt and turn over a lot of ball. This enabled us to win 35–10. We continued this form with another win against a tough Uppingham side by 17–10. While we dominated throughout most of the game, our concentration in defence let us down. Nevertheless, our determination was high and James Skirrow led the way with his hard work in both attack and defence. We couldn’t win a tight game against Harrow. In parts of the game we played some fast, attacking rugby but, unfortunately, our tackling in defence was too high and allowed some easy tries to be scored by the opposition. This was followed by another defeat to Dulwich who were by far the best team on the circuit. Even though we lost by 50 points we managed to score three tries in the last ten minutes with only 13 men on the pitch. This reflected the courage and commitment of the squad. The fixture against Warwick also proved to be a very difficult game. With high winds and a wet ball it took us ten minutes to get our tactics right. By this time we were 0–19 down. However, we managed to pull the game back through good forward play to 19–19, until Warwick scored a last-minute try.

After a couple of tight defeats we managed to beat Oakham 25–17 and followed it up with a good win against Radley 20–17: a scoreline which was a lot closer than we wanted after a late surge by Radley, with our ever-improving defence having to hold them off. Jack Diemer was the leader in defence with some bone-crunching hits and quality high-ball taking. Rugby was another great performance as we kept a clean sheet for the first time during the season, with some strong running from Julian Kitson and our dominant set pieces. Our last game was by far our best performance with a 32–5 win over Stowe. Tom Banner scored the last try with a well set up maul which showed how powerful and dominant our forward pack had become over the season.

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Overall, the team showed very good character this season. Some fine rugby was played by a team that always worked hard for each other. Squad: Axon A. (captain), Assim S., Banner T., Booton T., Chapman T., Clarke B., Colbeck M., Diemer J., Garcha A., Jamieson M., Kitson J., Naidoo R., Ollerhead R., Skirrow J., Tarbox W. and Walsh H. Alex Axon

THE THIRD FIFTEEN Unfortunately, this year’s 3rd XV have not lived up to the successes of the years before. The season’s results of three wins and ten losses does not reflect the team’s performances this year in the slightest. While the lack of success was surprising, we were met with an unusual number of top-quality 3rd XV opposition. It was a slow start to the season with losses to Oundle, Uppingham, Harrow and Stamford. In all but one match we were able to score tries and put up a fight. With brilliant team performances in the first half, parents on the touchline became suspicious of what was said at half-time, as they believed it had a negative effect on our second-half performances. This led to a refusal from the coach to even speak at half-time, hoping that we would be able to replicate the first half performances in the second half. Thankfully, our luck changed in the fifth match of the season when a close match was fought against Oakham

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with the Bedford 3rd XV sneaking out a win by five points. To seal this game, the team produced our try of the season. Brilliant work by the forwards down the middle forced our way into the Oakham 22 which left space out wide. The fast hands of the back line took advantage, spreading the ball wide, with Alex Benzie finishing in style. After a cracking win, we came back to training feeling positive about our next opponents. However, a long trek down to Dulwich resulted in a defeat and a scoreline to forget. On the other hand, a friendly against Quinton House provided Bedford with a solid win a week later with HansChristian Preyer putting in a solid performance in the midfield and gaining some excellent ground. A relatively successful last couple of weeks was brought to an end when Uppingham came back to Bedford, putting in a very good performance. Following this disappointment and a couple of solid, hard-worked training sessions, the 3rd XV produced their game of the season away at Warwick. With a brilliant performance from a newly recruited fly-half, Jamie White, motivational leadership from Vinny Lombardo and aggressive work from the forwards, especially Jack Harvey at flanker, we managed to secure a 26–10 win. This was by far the highlight of our season and a win to remember. Unfortunately, the last four games did not go to plan. With many changes in the team due to injuries and promotions, our passionate crowd of supporters (Mr and Mrs McLeod) never really saw the team as connected as we were against Warwick. It was a hard-worked season which lacked the results we

wanted, even though after every match we all left the field feeling that we had put in 70 minutes of solid effort. Even with these disappointments, I’m sure the team and coaches can say that it was an enjoyable season. With congratulations to Andrew Lakin, our player of the season, and thanks to the coaches Mr Huddlestone, Mr Davies and Mr Ingle for being incredibly supportive throughout. Squad: Lombardo V. (captain), Benzie A., Blakemore T., Chapman T., Cochrane-Davies G., Frossell D., Garret B., Hall T., Harvey J., Herriot J., Holroyd M., Lakin A., Lawson M., Lousada T., Maltby O., Matthews T., McLeod O., Oakley R., O’Brien C., Preyer H., Ridell L., Rush A., Swallow R., Toresse P. and White J. Daniel Frossell

THE FOURTH FIFTEEN The 4th XV always faces its challenges with a positive attitude and with heads held high; being part of the Bedford School rugby tradition is indeed an honour. However, such a rich rugby tradition demands a fixture list as prestigious, and the result for the 4th XV this season was a mixed one with some stunning wins and some heavy defeats. Yet perhaps the pride of the 4th XV lies in their hard-fought defeats; at the end of which you are reminded why schoolboy sport is so magical. I can honestly say it is at the end of these matches that you walk off the pitch your most proud and most satisfied. The season started with three defeats in a row to Oundle, Uppingham and Harrow. The disappointment was the narrow margin that the first two games came down to, with defensive errors in the final few moments costing us two wins. Harrow were class. All was not lost with an easy win against Oakham, and Bedford looked like they were finding their feet: with a calm kicking game from Josh Sadd utilising the undulations on Kirkman’s pitch (which I am sorry to say are now gone), and strong running from Mathieu Govoni and Harry ChurchillColeman, Bedford put on a masterclass of running-the-game tempo. Going into the last fixture of the half-term (the daunting Dulwich away) spirits were high, but alas the oldest schoolboy fixture did not go our way, with the ‘nice’ Bedford chaps succumbing to ‘London grit’. Even Matthew Cloke’s determination could not stop the onslaught of the Dulwich runners and a disappointing first half of the season. (Continued on page 98)

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BEDFORD SCHOOL WINS

Daily Mail RUGBY SEVENS

A shaky beginning with a defeat in our very first game of the season was not the start we’d all hoped for at the annual Windsor event. Following this, a strong win against a good Bryanston side boosted our confidence, which was enhanced by comfortable wins over Berkhamsted and Magdalen College. Having won our group we progressed to the quarterfinals against Henley College (Wasps AASE College). Again a weak start left us a try down in the first few seconds. After this wake-up call, we dominated a physical side and controlled possession and won the game by a sizeable margin. However, we then had a disappointing end to the day, as we underperformed against a well-drilled Radley side. This left us heading home frustrated and eager to put things right the following week. A hard week of training meant the team were hungry for the challenge of Oakham’s new expanded sevens tournament, and this was shown by our first tournament win of the year. From the outset we performed professionally, posting two strong wins against Princethorpe and Leicester Grammar. This left us with a group decider against Denstone College (a side filled with confidence in their own ability). An extremely convincing performance allowed us to dominate the game and win (43–7).

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We proceeded into the semi-finals to play St Joseph’s, Ipswich – a repetition of the previous year’s final – and once again Bedford came out on top. This meant that we were into the final for the third year running, our opposition this time being a physical Stowe side. From the outset Bedford took control and dominated the game, posting a healthy 44–0 win. For the second year running we were crowned Oakham champions. At Worth, the quality of sevens played was without doubt our best tournament in terms of consistency. Against our first opposition KCS Wimbledon (little did we know we’d face them in the final of Rosslyn Park), the boys pulled out a storming performance and we won comfortably 26–0. Aggressive defending throughout the group allowed us to choke our opposition and largely dominate the play, leading to us topping the group with four wins from four. Strong performances in both the quarter- and semi-finals saw us beat Eltham and Eastbourne (36–0 and 31–14 respectively). These wins led us into the final against a Brighton College side that was also unbeaten on that day. Frustratingly, Brighton were able to use our strategy against us: they starved us of possession and controlled the game, leaving them as deserved winners of what was a tight final (17–26). Following this successful build up, we entered Rosslyn Park

with high hopes. Following an easy opener we lost to a physical Loretto side. After a rallying speech from captain Ollie Lyons, we found ourselves hungry to not only defeat our remaining opposition but to put them to the sword. We proceeded to execute this strategy and beat Ampleforth and Reed’s School (31–0 and 19–7 respectively). After a nerve-racking wait in the pouring rain we progressed as group winners on points difference. In our first proper knockout game we comfortably dispatched Hymers College (27–0). This meant that once again we were through to the second day. A new format of the tournament meant that we were placed into a pool for the quarter-finals. We faced Kingswood to begin with and suffered a disappointing defeat in the final play of the first game (12–14). From this stage we knew we couldn’t win our pool so our sole focus became qualifying as best runners-up. Yet again our own failure led to us needing a new level of intensity and yet again we as a squad rose to the mammoth task at hand, posting a strong (54–0) win against Royal Hospital School. Thankfully we progressed as best runners-up due to our unrivalled points difference. We were placed into a semi-final ‘group of death’ with a familiar and formidable Cranleigh whom we faced at a similar stage the previous year and an Epsom side who were unbeaten in their domestic XVs season. A controlled start against Cranleigh in our first must-win game meant that we posted a considerable score and a comfortable win (28–0). Next up was this revered Epsom side. Once again we rose to the occasion, producing some the best sevens we had played all season to win 21–12. This brought about a first final appearance for the school since the winning side of 1978. Our opposition was KCS Wimbledon. We’d spoken all day about every game being our last, and now was the time to end on a high and to go home ‘festival champions’. A sloppy error led to the first try and a disappointing first half was slightly redeemed by a try from Bob Barfoot to bring

the scorelines closer. 5–10 down at half-time and a snappy break, we came out ready to fight. An initial shock occurred with a quick try down the wing from their ‘flyer’. 5–17 down, everyone following on Twitter or spectating assumed that was it: ‘finalists – good effort’. However, the following five minutes will live long in the memory of each squad member: showing outstanding courage in the face of adversity, we found an entirely different level of physicality and determination. Leading from the front, Lyons streaked over the line after some great footwork and strength and we were back in it, 12–17. Some intricate sevens led to the opening up of a hole and Paddy McDuell dashed over the line, 17–17. All that was left was the final strike with the boot from the calm and collected George Furbank: 19–17 with about a minute to play. Solid defence led to a turnover and the ball was cleared from play. That moment was one that no player will forget, and the legacy of the 2014 Bedford School Sevens team will be carried through for years to come. Elation followed; what a way to bow out for those who were leaving the school and would not get to play in a Bedford School shirt again. When writing this report it was difficult not to mention names of outstanding performers here and there. Yet everyone had their day: matches where they made the difference. We could praise every player who was part of this squad for their actions throughout the season, but rather we have praised the team for their sheer determination and hard work throughout, as well as their outstanding commitment. As a team we came together and succeeded together and produced outstanding results which, after all the training we had done, were well deserved. Captain: O.C. Lyons Colours: R.A. Barfoot, Z. Carter, B.G. Clarke, S.M.G. Clements, H.M. Eames, G.A. Furbank, J.J. Lee, P.R.J. McDuell, M.G. Morris, B.P.J. Nethersole, C.C. Roberts, Z.D. Scorer, J.A. Skirrow and O.G.N. Wetton. Ollie Lyons and Ollie Wetton

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A two-week break gave Callum Logan the opportunity to think long and hard about his final half-term of rugby for the school, and he came back with the energy and passion that would lead the team to put their bodies on the line for a cause above that of the individual: Radley at home. This was the match of the season. A moment where a defeat feels like the most monumental of wins. Fifteen young men lined up next to each other on the try-line defending for their lives, for their school. With Logan, Rory McCracken, Ben Smith and Joe Holt leading the way, Bedford frustrated Radley enough that even their redtrouser-wearing supporters were quietened: not an easy task. The score line says a 12–32 defeat, but that’s not we remember about that game. We remember schoolboy sport at its best, where sportsmen from the sixth form show so much heart and passion that they feel, in that moment, like one. The legacy was two wins from the final three games of the season and, in particular, welcoming Stowe to that same pitch and

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giving them the shock of their season. Satisfying, and an honour. Squad : Churchill-Coleman H. (captain), Bowes O., Cloke M., Dunn T., Geldemacher J., Govoni M., Holt J., Jones E., Leung G., Lewsley J., Logan C., McCracken R., Monaghan A., O’Brien C., Riddell L., Robinson S., Rush A., Sadd J., Smith B. and Wardell S. T.J. Davies

THE FIFTH FIFTEEN A familiar tale unfolded for the unheralded heroes of the Bedford School 5th XV in the winter of 2013. Arriving back at school after a long, contented, summer hibernation, a group of sixth formers were hurled into the maelstrom of the school’s rugby itinerary, with just a single training session to prepare them for the daunting prospect of Oundle. We duly lost. Heavily (this point cannot be over-emphasised). However, the troops took this setback in their stride; along with

similarly unflattering scorelines against Uppingham and Harrow. Several stalwart team members were creamed off to fill the places of fallen comrades in the 4th XV and others manfully took up the cudgels in replacing them. A team ethic began to bud, then blossom, as the enthusiasm of the pack warhorses (Dylan Parmar, Wolfgang Pirlet and Gian Zinngrebe), along with the growing influence of the captain, Robbie ‘Red Peril’ Evans, meant that defence began to improve and a dynamic style of driving forward play began to make us more of a threat. In the back line our potency was increased with the addition of HansChristian Preyer and the flourishing of Tristan Ehlert and Filip Kozera. The margins of defeat thinned (including a very narrow home loss to our initial tormentors, Oundle) until, in a glorious finale, against the undisciplined hordes of Stowe, the 5th XV heroes got their just deserts and claimed that elusive, sweet victory. Sated, they returned to their peacetime habits, and now lie dormant until next year. Squad: Evans, R. (captain), Ackroyd A., Amirov A., Ehlert T., Falter C., Gebing P., Gee H., Hafner C., Hampshire R., Ho T., King J., Kozera F., Leroy A., Malhi A., Monnington G., Nesseler B., Olphin A., Parmar D., Pirlet W., Preyer H., Siu Y., Smith S., Stokey C., Wacharaprechanont T. and Zinngrebe G. M.A.R. Crisp

COLTS A Unbeaten seasons don’t happen very often, particularly on a large and arduous circuit like ours. It’s all very well for the U14 D hockey coach to claim one after beating Oakham 1–0 in their only fixture but, for the Colts A of 2013, it was 11 matches plus a fiveround pre-season tournament. What was even more remarkable about this success was that we really were so much better than all the opponents. On three occasions, however, the record was

threatened. First, in a brawl with an equally physical St Paul’s XV in a 20-minute game at the Blundell’s tournament; second, with eight players out, away at Radley; and third, when we were 0–9 down at half-time at Stowe. But, strangely enough, we were still confident in all these situations. I hesitate to compare our humble rugby to the great All Blacks, but there is that similar winning attitude among this group which eventually got the better of even the pluckiest opponent. There was no great secret to this success. It is based on a very powerful pack with a front row of at least divisional schools’ quality. The ‘back five’, too, combine a mix of bone-crunching physicality and deft handling. Add to this half-backs of rare ability and a back line containing blistering pace and, yes, more physicality, and you have what in many ways is a coach’s dream. I, of course, milked this opportunity in the common room after every game and patronised opposition staff with impunity. However, I was left at the end of the season feeling that I’d made less impact than in years when results had been more modest. Skill levels were already high and the structure had been put in place on tour in Australia. The one area where I’d hoped to have made progress was in developing their game management and variety of tactical plays. Unfortunately, in the Stowe game, they continued to stick to the ‘Plan A’ of smashing through the phases from any position on the park until holes opened up. It was clear that Stowe were waiting for this and really did cause us problems. The change to a kicking and territorial game just never happened. The lesson of the Daily Mail 2013 was still not learnt. However, it’s The Ousel and I come to praise the Colts of 2013, not bury them. Put together parts of the Harrow, Warwick and Rugby performances and you probably have some of the best U16 rugby that I have seen in my sell-by-date approaching career. To talk individuals for a minute or two, the acquisition of Andrew Bywater was like telling the Jamaican 4 x 100 sprint team that we’ve just found a bloke in a bar called Usain Bolt. Sadly, his

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season was cut short by injury, but the 36–3 win over Daily Mail villains Warwick was his crowning performance. One other to mention was Ollie Burgess in the Radley match. Never mind Henry V, this was reminiscent of John Wayne at the Alamo. No one, but no one was going to steal that match and Burgess was prepared to die trying. I forgave him that day for making every referee’s life a misery all season and for dismissing any coaching comment made to him no matter how experienced, knowledgeable, well-meaning or even related that coach happened to be! The season ended with an emotional ceremony at the temple of Bedford rugby, Nando’s. Myself and the youthful, and Nando’s savvy, Mr Coward were presented with cards containing good natured abuse in the great rugby tradition and we said a sad farewell to the wonderful 2013 group. Squad: Carter J. (captain)., Adewale T., Beal S., Boyd S., Burgess O., Bywater A., Cave G., Clarke C., Clarke T., Cooper P., Cowan N., Hickey D., Kalyan A., Matthews J., Pudylyk S., Simmons J., Slawinski B., Swain A. and Weed E. R.E. Heale

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COLTS B Overall, the Colts B team season was a very successful and enjoyable one; we continued to play well early in the season, exhibiting the strong form that we had shown as an U15 B team last year. Our first game was against an excellent Oundle side and, despite our strong start, we lost 14–26. However, many positives came out of the game, such as our fast running lines and solid defence. Furthermore, we felt confident for the next fixture as the defeat had been extremely narrow in comparison to previous seasons. The next fixture was against Uppingham and, after a tough week of training (with Mr Coward setting us drills to improve the team’s weaknesses), we felt confident. The training paid off and we won very comfortably, 62–3. The next week brought disappointment as we lost to Harrow 12–31. However, the scoreline did not seem the fairest representation of the match, as we put up a strong fight, having most of the possession and a large number of chances. We then went on to play Stamford and won 14–10 despite not having our regular team – some players had been called to play for the Colts A team due to injuries in their team. Furthermore, during the game we suffered from injuries to our own players, namely Alex Williams and Jamie Staddon, causing them to come off. This left the team to fight for the win with players having to play out of their regular positions. We continued to be in good form for the next fixture, against Oakham, which we easily won 50–0. The next fixture was against Dulwich and, even though we lost 24–31, this was one of our best games: our defence was strong and there were some great team tries from the forwards and the backs, as well as some excellent kicking from Williams. We than had a great game against Warwick, winning 25–12, but then lost to a strong Radley team, 5–29. The Radley fixture was our most disappointing of the season as we only got into the game and started to play some good rugby at the end of the match. The next game was a big fixture for the team as we were

playing Oundle again and, after losing to them in the first game, we felt that we had a point to prove. We played strongly with all of the aspects of the game going well, culminating in a strong win, 39–14. Finally, our last two fixtures were against Rugby and Stowe. We beat Rugby 53–0 but lost 14–21 to Stowe. Even though we lost our last fixture we were all very pleased with our season. We enjoyed it very much and were thankful that the weather was great and no games were cancelled. Big thanks must go to Mr Coward who helped us improve throughout the season and led us to our first season with more wins than defeats. Squad: Johnston D. (captain), Barnett Z., Bloxham C., Bracewell C., Burlison M., Chander J., Dorgham A., Duxbury J., Glenn H., Hart C., Harzaliya D., Holroyd J., Hughes J., Karapetyan O., Orchard R., Smith J., Smith M., Staddon J., Stammers A., Williams A., Wilson E. and Yin J. Duncan Johnston

COLTS C A season of ups and downs for the Colts C squad began with a 15–40 defeat by Oundle. The squad then managed to bounce back later on in the season to secure a 49–12 victory over the very same Oundle side, showing significant improvement and commitment in doing so. Other games this season included a 49–14 win over Warwick, a 34–32 win over Uppingham, and a notable 40–5 victory over Stowe, our last game of the season and undoubtedly the team’s favourite match due to the effort put in by every player. Strong defensive efforts from the likes of Charlie Orbell and Adam Johnston, as well as strong offensive runs from Vlad Achba and Chris Junge were matched only by our unbeatable scrums and tricky back-line tactics which led to multiple consecutive tries being scored. Consistent conversions from Oscar Garrad also frequently aided and boosted the points on the scorecard. Despite such great tactics and movement from the squad, defeats were not uncommon in our season, but the squad stayed strong and didn’t give up even through defeats by teams such as Dulwich and Harrow. Multiple great team tries were scored this season, but solo runs from players such as Achba, Peter Strain and Junge on the wing were just as admirable. The squad also managed to maintain high spirits and a good attitude and sense of sportsmanship towards both training sessions and matches, which resulted in a happy season (and

not too many push-ups, star jumps and pyramid runs!). A team highlight for such an eventful and interesting season is undoubtedly the moment when Michael Stokey managed to ‘goose-step’ Mr Holt, and leave him doing the splits in the mud, much to the amusement of anyone watching! On behalf of the team I would like to thank both Mr Holt and Mr Finch for both an enjoyable and successful season in the Colts Cs. Special mention must also go to Mr Ingle for his tactical expertise and introducing us to the highlight of our warm-ups: ‘Capture the Flag’. Squad: Garrad O. (captain), Achba V., Anstis B., Birro A., Bornemann P., Cope H., Foulkes M., Iwama F., Johnston A., Junge C., Konstantinidis J., Mactavish G., Mills C., Orbell C., Potts A., Sterling E., Stokey M., Strain P., Trudgill T., Turner C., Twigden J. and Welch L. Oscar Garrad

U15 A This 2013–14 season was very successful, not just in XVs, but in VIIs, too. The arrival of the skilful Fraser Dingwall was a great addition to an already very strong squad. The XV’s season commenced with a changed squad which included Colston Kane, Jasper Williamson and Alex Shepherd: they certainly showed why they were part of the team with very commendable performances. The season kicked off with the best possible start against Oundle with a strong 68–5 win. The inclusion of new moves was challenging to process – but the job was done in a comprehensive manner. This strong win was followed by another, which was arguably the best result of the season,

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against Uppingham. Blistering pace showed by Ben Kight enabled him to bag his fifth try in two games, with big hits and commitment coming from Will Kerr and Jo Rogers. The slick play of Ted Hicks got us through, along with a hat-trick from Will Entwistle. The fluidity of this performance put us in good stead for the rest of the season, creating masses of momentum. After a disappointing defeat to Harrow last year, which included multiple controversies on the pitch, we thought this year’s fixture would be a huge, physical and high tempo game. This game did not meet these expectations – it exceeded them right from the off. After a nervous start we soon found our feet and put together a quality move that was finished by the pace of Kight. Hard defence and good attack was enough but it was not as consistent as we wanted. This meant that even the smallest of holes in the defence would be exploited and Harrow, being the strong outfit they are, pounced on this opportunity. The tensest finish of all of our rugby careers was looming over us when the last ten minutes were in sight. An offside at the breakdown lead to a penalty right in front of the sticks and just behind the 22 – it looked like a certain three points for Harrow. However, their full back took too long over his kick and missed. It was a let-off and we simply needed to kill the game and respond in the best way. Phase after phase got us further down the pitch. Having been camped on the Harrow line for two phases the try simply had to come and it did, when Jack Ciuro took the ball and was forced over the line. This was arguably the highlight of the season, turning around the result of this strong Harrow outfit. The game ended 24–15. A string of comfortable wins followed: first against a rugged Stamford, 45-0, the first NatWest Cup match of the season; second against Icknield, 50–0; and third versus an aggressive Oakham side, 33–5. However, these games came at a price. Dingwall and Kerr sustained injuries that left us in a slightly weakened position for the next fixture. This fixture was in the shape of a strong Dulwich side that in the end beat us 10–28.

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However, the scoreline did not tell the whole story as the team was further damaged with Williamson picking up a very nasty knock. However Ollie Hind stepped up and delivered a brilliant defensive effort against a fast and abrasive Dulwich side. Arguably the best try of the game came from the commendable finishing of Kight after a clever piece of play from Ed Johnson. After this tough fixture, we were met by the Daily Mail champions, Warwick, who gave us a much-needed wake-up call last year. After the heroics shown against Harrow, the lads were eager to show that performance again against Warwick. An early try conceded inside the first minute put Warwick up 0–7. However, this did not damage our confidence, it only increased our physicality. The first half ended with Warwick winning on points. However, it was clear that they were by no means physically winning the game after some big carries knocked down their defence. This created gaps and they were exploited further in the second half by Andrew Zhu, the rampaging prop, and Josiah Cooke, who had a brilliant game in his new slot at full back. The game ended 0–7 to Warwick, but it highlighted how much the team has developed during the season. The game that followed was against Ousedale School in the

next round of the NatWest Cup. We won comfortably, 50–0. Next up was the Radley game that was won 24–12 and a very comfortable 73–5 win against Oundle. We were on a winning streak. However, our next match was another NatWest Cup match. Sadly, we went out to Aylesbury Grammar. The unfortunate exit from the cup was a huge shame as we knew that we were the better side. However, we had to respond positively. The game against Rugby is, obviously, a big traditional fixture and it had to be met with a performance worthy of the occasion. Big ball carrying, many broken tackles, pace and skill were all shown. This reflected the depth of the team and the squad. It was the most gelled performance of the season and it showed with the game finishing at 65–5. The season was finished with a hard fixture against Stowe where multiple players could not play due to injury; the scoreline was not a fair reflection of the commitment shown. The VIIs season was one to remember. After a shaky start against the hosts, Magdalen, we emerged with a two-point victory. This was followed by an easy win against King Edward’s School. The next game was against Aylesbury Grammar who had knocked us out of the NatWest Cup. We came out comfortable winners in the end, due to our strength and fitness in the dying stages of the game. The final was between Bromsgrove and us. It was a big game and we, with our lack of tournament practice, were labelled the underdogs coming into the fixture. With a solid and intelligent first half, we went three tries to nil up. However, this momentum switched into their hands and they eventually pipped us by a mere point. It was devastating, but it showed that we have the capacity to dominate very strong and experienced sides. Next year will be littered with huge tournaments and the team will be very much looking forward to performing in these. This season was a huge success and it stands us in good stead for seasons to come. With the help of Mr Midgley and the hard work of the lads, the team developed superbly throughout the season. Squad: Entiwistle W. (captain), Andrews G., Bowes W., Ciuro J., Cooke J., Dalton J., Dason-Barber T., Dennis A., Dingwall F., Elston F., Hicks T., Hind O., Johnson E., Kane C., Kerr W., Kight B., Rogers J., Scofield-Bezer M., Shepherd A., Stewart T., van der Walt J., Williamson J., Wingfield E. and Zhu A. Will Entwistle

U15 B The U15 B team had a successful season, ranging from massive wins (for example, 98–5) to close games against big rugby schools. Many boys had such a good season that they managed to make their way into the A team – the Daily Mail squad consisted of five or six players from the B team. When we got it right we were an incredible force. When we played Warwick, we used the considerable size we have at our disposal via the pack and centres and the pace out wide to completely outplay the opposition. We looked organised and clinical. The team ethos was positive: even though some players

had to sit on the bench, it didn’t make them despondent but rather hungrier for their opportunity. Having a strong B team also keeps the A team on their game as the gap between the two is small – this is a great strength of this year group, the fact that we have so much strength and depth, so that injuries don’t have a drastic affect. Next year, now that we are very familiar with one another’s playing styles, we can look forward to another exciting season. Squad: Adesida D., Andrews G., Bowes W., Chapman J., Cheng J., Chukwu C., Clements D., Dennis A., Ekweremandu K., Elston F., Forsythe W., Hind O., Jamieson P., Kharzaliya G., Lewis D., Schofield-Bezer M., Sporton A., Tomlinson-Patel S., van der Walt J. and Wingfield E. Alex Dennis and George Andrews

U15 C It was a new season bringing new opportunities for every player within the newly formed U15 C team. A season full of high hopes and expectations, building on the successes of our exceptionally strong season the previous year, turned out to be one full of big achievements and crucial wins. Full of true grit and determination, we grew not only as a team, but as friends and as men. The U15 C team’s first game of the season was an important one. It was a game which set us up for what was to come and one that gave us the opportunity to put practice into action. In the end the win was comfortable, beating Oundle 40–5. Our next two games of the season were against two big schools and thus two strong teams. First we beat Uppingham 32–12 although the game came to a disappointing conclusion 20 minutes early after many injuries to their men resulted in both sides being reduced to nine men. At this stage we as a team felt both mentally and physically ready for the next big fixture, even though, of course, there was much more work to be done. Our game against Harrow came around quickly and for the first time the nerves were being felt and the prospect of defeat crept into the minds of every single member of the team. We knew we had to be strong, that we had to be aggressive, but most importantly we knew we had to put what we had practised into action and work as a unit. The game ended 28–19 in our favour and was the most emotional win of the season; it is not often so large a school can be beaten and we put in a great performance, resulting in a well-deserved win. Our next three games (against Stamford, Rushmoor and Oakham) ended in solid wins and, having recorded our biggest win of the season so far against Oakham – beating them 71–0 – we were confident and ready to face the strong Dulwich team. We travelled away for this fixture and even after the long bus journey, we managed to score an early try with Harry Sivills giving us the points on the board. We were now confident but aware that Dulwich were a strong and fast team. Dulwich struck back soon after and a feared and remembered member of the Dulwich team was making an evident impact on the game. Just after half-time we found ourselves 7–24 down but still fighting for the game. We hit back: two tries from me put us 19–24 down but on the front foot: one try and the game was ours. While

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pushing for the try and in possession the final whistle blew, the game was over and our first defeat of the season was recorded; it was devastating. After our half-term break we knew that we had to come back strong and we did so, beating Warwick 45–0 in a game of preparation for our next game, against Radley. The Radley match was away from home and was a game full of great anticipation. The game was tightly contested as expected with a slim scoreline at the end of the first half (0–5 to Radley). An early impact in the second half was needed, and that is what was enforced, with Bedford starting to control the game, keeping possession and playing their rugby in Radley’s 22. Bedford had fought hard and fought back: we were winning 10–5. However, with 30 seconds left on the clock the Bedford defence was broken and Radley scored a converted try in the dying embers of the game. We were crushed. Three games were left in the season: win all of them and we could call ourselves (according to the National Schools’ Rugby League board) the best U15 C team in the country. The first win was against Oundle (24–5). We then beat Rugby 46–0. The final game was upon us and we travelled away to Stowe to face an unbeaten team. We struck first – having our best start to a game of the season – with Nihat Aslanoba scoring a try under the posts. The game from then on was tough: both teams were playing hard, each contesting for every piece of territory on the pitch. The game was coming to a close and another try was needed to confirm our win. A Stowe lineout was taken on their ten-yard line, fumbled and chased down by the Bedford players. I kicked the ball forwards over the Stowe try line and dived on the ball in the corner of the scoring area. The try was given and the final score was 15–9 to Bedford. The whole game could have changed if our heroic full-back Jack Ferrari hadn’t made a trysaving tackle which left him concussed and out of the game. We ended the season as the best U15 C team in the country. Our top try scorer, Jonathan Malindine, racked up a total of 16 tries during the season, helping us on our way to victory, especially against Rushmoor where he scored four tries. Big hits were made throughout the season but especially by Ferrari and Harry Marks as they were our two full-backs, who needed to put in every tackle possible. The conversions of Will Comfort were important and he delivered on almost every occasion. I am sure that no single member of the team will forget their U15 season at Bedford School; coached to success by the inimitable Mr

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Beale, we have become better rugby players and also better friends throughout a season full of superb achievements. Squad: Garrett J. (captain), Achba A., Aslanoba N., Bang J., Barnes J., Cazzoli E., Comfort W., Dallas J., Ferrari J., Keyworth D., King T., Malindine J., Marks H., McCormack O., Molloy H., Seamark R., Sivills H., Song B. and Thrasher O. Joshua Garrett

U14 A This season’s U14 A showed a great deal of promise. There is a depth of skill and physical talent among the group that was impressive. If the lessons from this season can be put into practice, they will become a fearsome year group as they move through the school. This made selection difficult during the season but also meant that training was fierce and often of high quality. The main issues that the group tried to address during the season were: their decision-making in attack (trying to keep the ball for more than a phase or two); and maintaining intensity for longer periods. When the side attacked with pace and directness they were marvellous, and the ability of a number of players to beat a man and offload effectively made for some fantastic tries. This is also a group that has a tremendous amount of fighting spirit. There was never a moment where they reduced their commitment in the face of defeat and, equally importantly, they continued to play well when they were winning. The best performances were undoubtedly against Dulwich and Warwick after half-term. Though neither of these produced victories, the boys displayed the characteristics that they were aiming for more impressively than they did in the wins against New Hall, Rugby, Bromsgrove, St Alban’s and Thomas Deacon. In particular, taking a well-earned draw against a strong Dulwich side, on a day when few sides in the school won, was an impressive achievement. Notably, Connor Finch and George Seward were selected for the U14 National Lambs side, but this is a team with talent throughout. I am sure that we will all enjoy watching them play in seasons to come. Squad: Seward G. (captain), Blore-Rimmer D., Blundell O., Borland A., Burgoine H., Churchill A., Davies A., Donougher H., Finch C., Fordham M., Hardwicke V., Kendall J., Lister M., Ogunyiluka A., O’Keefe C., Ollerhead B., Omotomilola R., Orchard A., Tovey S. and Willcocks W. M.R. Gracie

U14 B The season didn’t get off to the most desirable start, with a defeat against Warwick. It wasn’t all bad though; we kept heart until the end, and knew we could change things. Next came the first away game of the season, a trek into the middle of Essex. From the offset Bedford put on a show in the driving rain, Akin Ogunyiluka splitting the New Hall defence left, right and centre, going over for four tries. Felix Iles sustained an injury about halfway through but Harrison Burgoine filled in and orchestrated perfectly. KFC on the trip back was a worthy reward! The next week Bedford battled hard but were closely edged out by a strong Harrow side away. The boys’ hard work paid off in the next matches, winning three comfortably on the trot against Bromsgrove, St Albans and Oakham. Then came one of the most hyped games in the calendar, against Dulwich. Still strong in the minds of the team was the rousing speech Ollie Lyons had given the previous training session, the motto being, ‘defend the fortress, boys’. A very strong Dulwich side took a good win, but Bedford’s performance wasn’t without positives; the try of the season was scored by Sachin Chambers. The team were hungry to change things in the next game when we travelled to Warwick, hoping to make up for the heavy beating dished out at the start of the season. The game started slowly but we could feel that we were playing well. Everyone fulfilled their role perfectly and the team were on top form. Tries from Felix Hill, Chambers and Burgoine put Bedford in the lead. The second half was a lot closer but one of the best defensive displays of the season by Bedford kept Warwick at bay. Bedford edged out to win 20–10, with Mr Sherwin saying it was one of the best games ever by an U14 B side. In the penultimate game of the season we secured a good win over a strong Rugby side, with man of the match Etienne Bouvier scoring two tries. The last game of the season came against Magdalen College, a strong side in the heart of Oxford. It was a tough game but the boys managed a 10–10 draw. The long coach journey back was filled with stories of the season with everyone agreeing it had been an epic one. On behalf of all the team I would like to thank Mr Sherwin for leading us and we

would all like to wish him well in his new job down under. Squad: Iles F. (captain), Blundell O., Bouvier E., Burgoine H., Chambers S., Hill F., Kendall J., Lake M., Mahwendepi T., Midder D., Ogunyiluka A., O’Riordan P., Princewell T., Shiels E., Simmons O., Todd A. and Young-Lee A. Felix Iles

U14 C Once again it proved to be an exciting term’s rugby for the U14 Cs. The boys did themselves and the school proud, playing with passion, skill and determination throughout a season with its own fair share of challenging matches. With the likes of Warwick, Radley and Harrow to contend with, the boys faced some strong opposition early on in the season but, like new-cast steel, forged in the flames of a furnace, they emerged a stronger and more united team! With strong competition and plenty of away fixtures, the early weeks of term proved something of a test of character for both the boys and their coach! The U14 Cs were not found wanting, however, and they continued to play with determination despite conceding some defeats early on. After the initial few weeks of uncertainty a stable body, making up the U14 C team, slowly emerged from which an espirit de corps was steadily built. The weekly training sessions also succeeded in improving and building upon the boys’ basic skills. Brendan Burke from Bedford Blues deserves special thanks for providing the boys with some excellent skills sessions that led to obvious improvements in the team’s tackling and rucking techniques. Strong performances in the two matches played against Oakham and a closely fought return fixture against Warwick, saw the boys playing some impressive rugby and far more confidently, together, as a team. I would like to thank all the boys who played and trained so hard throughout the season. Thank you also for the support from parents and family members. Their unstinting support and encouragement on the touchline was a great boost to the team. Finally, I would like to wish all the players good luck in their rugby next year. Squad: Barden S. (captain), Asare F., Bornemann L.,

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Brackenbury J., Case E., Chapman G., Christian G., Christian T., Cleary J., Deacon M., Glover C., Lawson H., Midder D., Parry T., Trudgill W., Vargas-Pritchard S. and Wilshaw-Quinn B. M.H. Cassell

U14 D This was a tough season for the U14 Ds but the team competed well against a range of schools with enviable strength in depth and secured some impressive results along the way. The boys began brightly with an encouraging 42–10 victory at Merchant Taylors’ and they subsequently approached the Harrow game with some confidence. Bedford scored twice to suggest an upset might be on the cards but the Harrow centres weren’t to be stopped and the visitors finished strongly to win by a comfortable margin. Dulwich away was a similarly punishing prospect; again the boys battled well on a big pitch but tired towards the end as some athletic wide players claimed several tries apiece. However, Bedford bounced back well with a spirited victory at home to the usually strong Bromsgrove School. Mr Sheldon was particularly pleased with the team’s organisation and the forwards worked extremely hard to lay the foundations for a series of free-flowing moves and some impressive tries from Takeshi Ikura and Tom Ackroyd. Debutant Kieran Duxbury’s remarkable kicking performance, in which most of his conversions were struck from near the touchline on either side, topped up an emphatic 69–10 win. Three players moved up to the C team after these early

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victories and featured heavily throughout the remainder of the season. Etienne Bouvier was tough and combative in the pack, Ackroyd proved hard to stop from the middle of the park, scoring several stylish tries and running bravely with the ball, and James Brackenbury was always in the right place to start moves and keep the cycles going. Ben Wilshaw-Quinn also featured at a higher level and was one of the team’s best ball carriers, alongside toughtackling Lennard Bornemann and the hugely committed Eduard Ksenofontov. Other key players include Arjun Ananth and Ikura, whose speed often proved too much to handle for opposition back lines, with captain James Lovell and Ben Stephens sharing the scrum-half duties and Duxbury, as mentioned above, proving a prolific kicker, converting around three-quarters of tries scored. The remainder of the season proved a step too far for a depleted squad; Radley and Warwick broke spirited Bedford resistance to win their fixtures by several tries and in the final game Bedford pushed Rugby close away from home before eventually succumbing 15–38. It was a tough fixture card but the boys can look back with pride at the manner in which they represented the school. Many will go on to big things in the coming years and I look forward to observing their continued progress. Squad: Lovell J. (captain), Ackroyd T., Ananth A., Berill S., Bird A., Bornemann L., Brakenbury J., Charter J., Cleary J., Deacon M., Duxbury K., Fomin K., Ikura T., Judge M., Keane M., Ksenofontov E., Nefedovskiy A., Patel S., Perkins S., Rogers Z., Stephens B., Trudgill W., Vernon E. and Wilshaw-Quinn B. M.W. Graham

HOCKEY

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SEASON OVERVIEW It is extremely pleasing to witness all the hard work and enthusiasm from both boys and staff starting to pay off. The new sand-dressed surface at Gordon field not only looks great but is having an extremely positive impact on the boys’ technical skills. The autumn term focused again on the indoor format of the game. With the U16 age group mainly being made up of U15 and U14 boys, they found it tough to compete with some good opposition. However, what does bode well is that this young group of players seem to have learnt from their experiences. The U18s narrowly missed out on national finals, finishing third in the east region, which in itself is no mean feat – year by year we are gradually getting closer to the finals. In the spring term, out attention turned to the outdoor game. The Midlands Schools’ League gets ever-more competitive and, with us being placed seventh overall in the past two years, the goal for 2014 was to climb at least two positions. With the 1st XI having their best season to date and with the 2nd XI and U15 B almost claiming top spot in their respective leagues, we accomplished a superb third place overall. With more and more boys playing hockey at the school – and now also outside school at local clubs – we are hoping to continue to improve. The 1st XI set the tone from week one with a brilliant victory against an always tough Trent side. It was their first outing on the new pitch and there was a real sense of pride from the boys and a feeling that they were going to give their all to win this game. With two wins, two draws and three losses during the season, the 1st XI recorded their highest place finish in this league so far, ending up fifth. We continue to have success at county level with both the U14 and U16 age groups winning their tournaments, with the east regional tournament still proving just a bridge too far at the moment. I would like to take the opportunity to thank all of the boys that put in so much effort during the term. I would also like to commend them on their on-field behaviour, which was exemplarily all season. Thanks must also go to all the coaches who have not only made this a very enjoyable year, but have also worked tirelessly to improve hockey at the school. Lastly, thank you to all of our loyal supporters who braved the weather and put in the mileage for the away journeys: it is very much appreciated by staff and boys alike. A.E. Meredith

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THE FIRST ELEVEN This year saw another improved season for the 1st XI. With many players returning for their senior year and many new young players moving up to the first squad, there was a good balance in the team. At the beginning of January we had a fairly rough start. We only trained twice before our first match, against Hitchin. Our tactics were still rusty and our defense was not sorted so we conceded three quick goals. However, after half-time we were able to play as a team and we were able to score two goals. In the end we lost 2–3, but we were able to finish on a high. With this motivational end we played one of our best matches against Trent. In past years we were always defeated by Trent. After going behind by two goals early on, we showed great spirit to fight back and, through team plays, we were able to turn the game.

In the end we won 4–3. This positive start in the league fixtures would stand us in good stead for the coming games. Next we went to Bromsgrove where we fought hard and conceded in the last minute, which cost us the victory. We had big defeats against Oakham and Repton but we still kept going. After these defeats we pulled ourselves together and beat Rugby after an amazing comeback. To round off the season we drew against Oundle. Overall we came fifth in the league, our highest placing to date. It was a mixed season, as we went from being sublime some weeks to very average in others. Our player of the season was Ben Nesseler who defended outstandingly and also helped in attack. He had a great level of skill and always had good vision for passes. He also scored many goals, when shooting his dangerous short corners. Ben Nethersole was voted as the clubman. This was due his excellent work attitude. During games he fought hard and motivated people. He was also our co-captain. Our other captain, Grant Lawrence, led us to many victories. He helped to give the defence comfort as a senior player. Even though he was injured

early in the season, he still led us throughout the season, coming to games and supporting us. Squad: Lawrence G. and Nethersole B. (captains), Axon A., Chapman T., Crowson T., Elhert T., Frossell D., Lamond J., Lee J., Momi A., Nesseler B., Preyer H., Rush A., Spencer B. and Wright R., Hans-Christian Preyer

THE SECOND ELEVEN The hockey season was one that the boys entered into full of hope, knowing that we had a core of players who had played a big role in the lower sixth (George Cox, Ollie Wetton, Ollie Lyons, Alex Dorgham and Alex Ciuro), supplemented with some flair provided from the year below (Angus Gill, Charlie Ballard, Ben Clarke, George Furbank,

Sebastian Trounson, Andrew Lakin, Shiv Patel and Luke Riddell – when he wasn’t skiing). We also had our workhorse: James Skirrow. We opened the account with a strong victory against Trent College, winning 4–0 with two goals from the talisman Ciuro and one each for Trounson and Hans-Christian Preyer. Using this as a springboard, the team went on the rampage in the first eight games, wining seven and drawing just one against a very strong Repton side (3–3) with new recruit Ballard scoring in the final play to level the score. We recorded wins against Bromsgrove (5–0), The Perse (2–1), Rugby (5–3) Bishop’s Stortford (5–0), Stowe (14–3) and Oakham (3–0). These victories left us in a very strong position in the league and feeling unstoppable. An injury to myself would see me play little part in the remainder of the season, leaving the leadership to vice-captain Ollie Wetton. That weekend we came up against an also unbeaten, well organised Oundle side and we ended up on the

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wrong side of a 1–2 defeat. Dreams of an unbeaten season and an open-top bus parade through Bedford were shattered in an instant! However, the reaction from the boys was very positive. Still hoping to reach the summit of the league, the lads returned to training and worked hard before a tough game at home to Stamford, where I managed to make one last appearance before retiring from school hockey. Our next game was against Sharnbrook. Once more I watched on as we won a tight game 4–3. With a new optimism we headed into the final game of the season, away to Uppingham, where a victory would have been the ideal way to finish what had been a very successful season and win the league. Unfortunately, we were unable to do so and were on the receiving end of what we had done to a number of sides this year, losing 2–6. Despite this defeat, looking at the season as a whole, it had been a vast improvement on the three victories in total last

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season, finishing with a record of played 12, won nine, drawn one and lost two. So we could take nothing but positives in the final analysis, and it should definitely be a strong platform for success next year and beyond with a crop of lower sixth players who impressed throughout the season (notably Gill). In terms of personal achievements, hockey colours were given to Wetton, Lyons, Dorgham and me. In front of goal Ciuro and Trounson had been reliable all season with Ciuro finishing top scorer and both with double figures. In the middle of the park, Skirrow summed up the second team philosophy, which had been the deciding factor in a number of tight games: energy and fitness. This second team wasn’t beaten and didn’t stop playing until the end, summed up by the draw against Repton. In matches against teams of similar or slightly superior ability; this attribute served us well in edging these games. Overall, I can do nothing but look back on this season with pride in the achievements of the team. Although we were within touching distance of going unbeaten, we still finished with the strongest record in the school; boasting a 75 per cent win ratio,

and beyond results it was a very a tight, enjoyable team atmosphere. Squad: Cox G. (captain), Ballard C., Ciuro A., Clarke B., Dorgham A., Furbank G., Gill A., Lakin A., Lyons O., Patel S., Plyushchenko A., Preyer H., Riddell L., Skirrow J., Trounson S. and Wetton O. George Cox

THE THIRD ELEVEN Losing my father in early March to a heart attack should have meant that coaching this 3rd XI would have been difficult to say the least. However, due to the vast amount of compassion and kindness shown by all members of the squad this was my favourite season since I started at Bedford nearly five years ago. This ‘band of brothers’ was led by the dynamic duo of Tom Banner and Max Lawson who both led by example on and off the pitch.

Their leadership made my life as coach effortless, and raised the performance of the team; often exceeding themselves to new heights. Overall, we came third in our league (on points difference alone), with victories over Trent College, Repton and Oakham. However, this doesn’t really do justice to all the effort and sheer determination shown by all the squad. Needless to say, when the going was tough, and the opposition played 1st XI players, the team gave everything they had and then more. The final game of the season is one that will stand out in 3rd XI legend – a brilliant 1–1 draw away at Uppingham, against a more skilful team and a 1st XI keeper. In my time at Bedford, never have I been so lucky to have such an amazing squad. I thank each and every one of you for a season that I will never forget. The

3rd XI next year has a hard act to follow. Squad: Banner T. (captain), Ali S., Bird G., Burton G., Diemer J., Dunlop B., Fahmy S., Lawson M., Lewsley M., Martin R., McLeod O., Olphin A., Parmar D., Ratnayake M., Shah A., Watson R. and White J. S.A. Adams

THE FOURTH ELEVEN This season for the 4th XI could potentially have been a difficult one. The previous year’s upper sixth had made up the majority of last year’s 4th XI, so they left a void to be filled. There was, however, a balance of youth and experience. Captain Churchill-Coleman became the 4th XI’s most capped player in his third season in the side. And any fears about the new breed joining the side were quickly put to bed as a crop of players with genuine skill and physical ability arrived in January. This, combined with the controversial decision to give the 4th XI all their practices and fixtures on astro, meant some really good hockey broke out on a number of occasions this season, much to everyone’s surprise. The growing quality of hockey in lower teams speaks volumes for the programme that Mr Meredith has built. The side gained early momentum with a

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1–0 victory over a ‘combined’ side from Rushmoor, won by a goal from the deadly Marcus Phillips whose confidence and fullswing power-shot made him the team’s top scorer. This victory was followed up by another win against the same side, 2–1 this time, before a fixture against Oundle. The Oundle game was preceded by a rousing speech from last year’s winner of the man of the season ‘Blake’ trophy, James Strode, via the phone. This was to be a defining moment for the side, as they battled with dignity in the face of some poor sportsmanship from the opposition. We kept our cool (perhaps too much) but succumbed 1–2. Against the same opposition later in the season we went down by more with a number of year 11s called up on trial. We also faced a surprisingly strong U16 C side from Uppingham who beat us by a goal. We then lost to their 4th XI in our final game. All of this provided an excellent build-up to the biggest game of the season, the annual ‘4th XI challenge’. This is a match played against the 4th XI football team, consisting of a half of hockey followed by a half of football. After last year’s penalty shoot-out defeat, motivation was easy to find and the team did not disappoint. A 5–0 lead from the hockey half was quickly eaten into but then a goal from that man Marcus Phillips proved crucial, and the trophy was won, 6–5 on aggregate; a first win for the hockey men. It is not possible to announce this season’s player of the season as the barbecue promised by Mr Gracie got lost during exam leave in the summer term. 4th XI players can accept this as an apology! Squad: Churchill-Coleman C. (captain), Awan M., Barnes P., Brown T., Eames M., Gardner D., Hall T., Perkins T., Phillips M., Robinson J. and Wacheraprechanont G. M.R. Gracie

COLTS A The U16s are an extremely talented sporting year group who had just completed an unbeaten rugby season. With many of the same personnel featuring in the Colts A hockey side, it was going to be a tough act to follow as we looked ahead to the hockey season. With a demanding fixture list and a national competition looming in the short term, we struggled with some injuries that hampered the progression of the side. Nevertheless, there was progress made between the half-terms, with the first seeing one win, two draws and two defeats, but the second three wins, one draw, two defeats and progression to the regional playoffs of the national schoolboy championships.

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Throughout any season there are inevitably times where you walk away from the pitch dissatisfied. There are matches you can’t believe you have lost. Equally, there are matches you can’t believe you have won. Then there are the games where every member of a squad can go home knowing that everything came together: the training, the tactics and the fitness programme are all worth it when you play outstanding hockey against extremely tough opposition. One such game is described below. On a beautiful Saturday afternoon we went away to play an unbeaten Oundle team; this after a very frustrating away trip to Oakham the week before where, due to last-minute injuries, we had to change formation during the warm-up. However, we had taken some confidence from the Oakham game because, for the first 20 minutes, Oakham had seemed unsure how to play against us. So we approached the Oundle game with similar tactics (and a still depleted squad). We had a poor warm-up after confusion with the buses on the journey. Credit to the boys (or perhaps it was an insight into their sporting confidence), this didn’t affect them at all. Straight from the whistle we wanted more of the ball than Oundle. The formation was designed around Arun Kalyan, Tunde Adewale and Robert Salvesen playing high up the pitch to allow room for Oktavio Port in the middle of the pitch. With support on the wings from Aidan Swain and Jack Twigden, Salvesen scored a goal that combined 15 passes before the opposition had a meaningful touch of the ball. Things were looking bright until Ben Slawinski broke his thumb. A poor tackle from an Oundle brute saw a clash of stick on thumb that the thumb lost. Without Slawinski as the lynch-pin in the middle, things were going to be a lot tougher, but Salvesen stepped in and performed the role wonderfully. Another example of ‘liquid

hockey’ and top skills saw us cut through their defence again before half-time and things were looking comfortable. It didn’t stay this way. A third goal from Port in the second half for some reason meant that we switched off, and two quick goals from Oundle followed. This had Josh Simmons and Sam Pudylyk sweating at the back, defending for their lives. A few errors in possession didn’t help. However, superb commitment in running from Twigden and Adewale meant Oundle never really found their rhythm, and a short-corner strike from Salvesen sealed a 4–2 victory for Bedford. The boys were tested, playing with a bare 11 against a fit and skilful Oundle side, but vocal support from the U15s arrived just in time to cheer us through the last five minutes and complete a satisfying victory. More performances with this much character may have led to a different overall season. However, for a group of boys for whom, generally, hockey is their third sport, they can be proud of the spirit in which they approached the season. Squad: Slawinski B. (captain), Adewale T., Burgess O., Hickey D., Kalyan A., Orchard R., Port O., Pudylyk S., Salvesen R., Simmons J., Strain P., Swain A. and Twigden J. T.J. Davies

COLTS B The Colts B team had a very tough season in which we had two wins, one draw and six defeats. However as the season progressed we began to improve and we started to play as a team with some brilliant play and superb goals. Our first game, against Trent, proved to be a difficult battle. We had a bad start with Trent scoring early goals and leaving us a few goals behind, but towards the end of the game we started

playing strongly and scored two goals, giving the team positives to take back to training. The final score was a defeat, 2–5. We lost both of the next two games 1–3 to strong Bromsgrove and Repton sides. However, even though we lost there was some great play and a spectacular goal by Oscar Garrad who dribbled towards the goal and successfully took a shot from a seemingly impossible angle. In the next game we avoided a defeat, drawing against Rugby 1–1; throughout the game there was some great defence and some great saves by our goalkeeper, Philip Bornemann. Unfortunately, we then suffered defeats to The Perse, Thomas Deacon Academy and Oakham, but we were beginning to feel more confident. We were very unlucky against Oakham as we were 2–0 up at half-time but ended up losing 2–3. During the Oakham game we scored the goal of the season which involved six players in the team passing and dribbling at speed, with Ed Wilson finishing with a great shot. We were desperate to get wins in our last two games. We went into our penultimate game, against Oundle, fired up and putting everything into the game. The final score was 5–1 to us with a number of those goals by Jayan Chander through short corners where he powered his shot right into the goal. Still on a high from the previous game we went into our final game with a lot of confidence, leading to a 5–1 win against Uppingham. This was a great way to finish our tough season; it’s a shame we only reached our peak towards the end of the season, because if we had found our form earlier we could have had more wins than defeats. However, we all had an enjoyable season. Thanks must go to Mr Braithwaite and Mr Machin who coached us throughout the season and kept us motivated despite the defeats. Squad: Johnston D. (captain), Birro A., Bornemann P., Burlison M., Chander J., Clarke T., Cooper P., Foulkes M., Garrad O., Gilmartin C., Matthews J., Mills C., Mortimer O., Orbell C., Shah A., Stammers A. and Wilson E. Duncan Johnston

U15 A Players’ player: Rob Seamark Manager’s player: Jack Dalton Top goal scorer: Ben Kight Most improved player: Fraser Dingwall The Hopkinson-Watson coaching combination followed the U14s

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into a consecutive season this year, as they became U15s who were hoping to build on all that they had achieved last year. Spirits were high as the boys (and a lot of cones) took part in Mr Watson’s miracle pre-season training. With two training sessions to organise our team, we travelled to our first away match at Trent School (who had beaten us convincingly the year previously). By this point Oli Hind had already cried off with a poorly ankle; an injury which would plague him for the rest of the season. With just ten minutes to go and 2–0 up, I can understand why the boys were so angry at drawing the game 2–2, but it was a solid start. We reminded ourselves that we can score lots of goals and demolished Hitchin BS with a penalty flick adding to our tally, scored by Rob Brown. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for our third away game of the season against an unpleasant group of Bromsgrove boys (our goalkeeper Josh Garrett was particularly unimpressed by their centre-forward’s vocabulary when shaking hands). They showed us not only how to score goals but how to win a game ungraciously. Luckily, we know we are better than this. We put in a valiant effort and performances from Ed Johnson and Tim Martin in the midfield were commended by the opposition’s coach. The following fixture saw us play away against Rugby, where Fraser Dingwall made his debut performance with the A team. Given that he had never played hockey before, we were all really proud of how well he fitted in and his performances improved with every touch of the ball. Ben Kight opened the scoring in the first half which Jack Dalton added to in the second when he beat his opposing left-back and smashed an accurate strike into the bottom corner. The hard-working Shaylen Tomlinson-Patel in the forward line was as ever appreciated. We followed this with a win away at Bishop’s Stortford, again against a team who had beaten us last year at the Regional Championships. We were having none of that this year and beat them 2–1 in a fantastically fought end-to-end battle. Our rock at the back, Tom Stewart, along with our newcomer to the centre-back role, Matt Hosking, absorbed any pressure and our hard-working midfield (where Gabriel von der Heyde found himself a new spot) supported the forward line in our bid to add more to the scoreline. It was here that we concluded that Will Bowes really is better off in the forward line. He proved this by scoring our second goal. The boys are all in agreement that the highlight of our season

was away (again) at Oundle. The pre-game friendlies with the opposition’s coach gave the impression that they thought rather highly of themselves but the Bedford boys took to the field with confidence. At 1–1 just before half-time, following Tim Martin’s early goal for Bedford, the boys knew that they would have to maintain a high tempo and standard of the game. Rob Seamark’s reaction save to keep us level was described by the team as ‘quality’. Just after the break Elliot Wingfield scored his first goal on his debut for the A team and Bowes put the Bedford team 3–1 up. While reliant on our left-back, George Andrews, to control a skilful Oundle right-wing, we eventually dominated the final quarter, making our Oundle counterparts look decidedly poor and Wingfield again put the fourth goal past the floundering keeper, before giving the Oundle dentist some work to do on their centre-back. With this being my last season with these players, I leave this team knowing that they are certainly a talented group of boys. They listen, work hard and enjoy being on the pitch; what more could I ask for? It has been an absolute pleasure being a part of this team. Keep loving hockey, boys! Squad: Johnson E. (captain), Andrews G., Bowes W., Brown R., Clements D., Dalton J., Dingwall F., Garrett J., Guthrie H., Hicks E., Hosking M., Johnson E., Kight B., Martin T., Seamark R., Stewart T., Thrasher O., Tomlinson-Patel S., von der Heyde G. and Wingfield E. K. Hopkinson

U15 B This has been a really enjoyable and successful season with most matches won and only one lost. It is good to see such depth of talent in an age group, but the real strength of the side has been their determination and togetherness. It is remarkable that, with so many long away fixtures involving hours of travel, every boy was always wanting to be part of the squad. Often with four players on the bench, the substitutes patiently awaited their chance to contribute with commendable good humour. I had not expected it in a B team but the main feature of the side was in learning and working together, and the resultant play was often more reminiscent of a first team, such was the quality of the passing moves and the support play. An early win against Trent set the tone for the season and half-term was reached without a defeat and with the quality and

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confidence in the players steadily increasing. Inevitably individual improvement was going to mean that some would get promotion to the A team and it is good to note that all who went up took their chance and stayed up. Sadly, there were promotions before the Oakham game and our patterns were much disrupted; the team did not play with its usual confidence and the game was lost against good but beatable opponents. However, normal service was soon resumed and wins returned. All the players made positive contributions. A solid back four, with calm heads in Dylan Adkins, Andrew Zhu, Freddie Elson and Darcy Clements working as a unit, gave the team great solidity. In midfield Paolo Lombardo always worked really hard, complementing Fraser Dingwall’s considerable sporting ability and Will Barrett’s natural skills and subtle passing ability. Dingwall thoroughly justified his promotion to the As. The squad was overloaded with forwards so there was much rotation of substitutes, but all made contributions, particularly the everimproving Elliot Wingfield and Alex Shepherd, both showing an excellent eye for goal. Wingfield was probably the most improved player in the squad and he was able to continue scoring when promoted to the As. All the other forwards had their moments and contributed to the goal threat. In goal Josh Garrett was a picture of calmness and gave great confidence to the rest of the side. I can think of more than one occasion on which we owed a win to him. Thank you, boys, for a great season. Squad: Adkins D., Barrett W., Bowes W., Clements D., Comfort W., Dingwall F., Elson F., Enson J., Futhrie H., Garrett J., Hamelmann M., Hicks E., Hosking M., Kerr W., Lombardo P., Shepherd A., Sumal H., Thrasher O., Wingfield E. and Zhu A. J.B. Watson

U15 C The U15 C team had a season of mixed results. A season that had begun with high hopes and noble ambitions is one that will not be forgotten … Right from the first game it was obvious that we weren’t the most talented group of boys, but with some brilliant coaching (credit to Mr Coward) and a lot of luck we were able to actually win a game. After beginning with some dreadful 0–6 defeats, we were able to turn our season around. Great individual play and leadership from key players such as Alex Dennis and Will Kerr, as well as a late addition to our team of hockey superstars (Jason Van der Walt), meant that we were able to win and finish our season with a great victory over Uppingham, 2–0. Well done, team! Squad: Kane C. (captain), Cooke J., Dennis A., Diemer M., Gee C., Hayward G., Kerr W., King T., Legg J., Patel S., Sumal H. and Van der Walt J. Colston Kane

U14 A The winter of 1978–79, David Moyes at Old Trafford, the U14 A XI of 2014: difficult seasons all. The hope after such difficult

periods is that – to lapse into football manager speak – positives can be taken and something can be built on. There were indeed positives for this year’s U14 side and some decent foundations on which to build were laid. Results are very important, though. We were unfortunate to start against an extremely talented – not to mention well-drilled – Trent College side. We lost 1–10. This was not a result that flattered Trent, especially as our goalkeeper, Samir Patel, gave an often spectacular performance, as, in fact, he did throughout the season. We fought for the whole match and Andrew Medley’s goal was greeted with an enthusiasm that suggested the team did not lack spirit. Bromsgrove were – this was to be a pattern – technically far superior to us and not much inferior to Trent. It was pleasing, therefore, to see the strides made by the side between these matches. A 3–5 defeat did not flatter us. Perhaps the most pleasing aspect of this game was our dawning realisation that we could hurt sides with fast, counter-attacking hockey. Reni Omotomilola and Alfie Orchard, both new to hockey, proved extremely fast learners and went on to play vital roles throughout the season. Both could develop into very good players indeed. From that moment on, we struggled to secure results that evidenced our improvements in training. Defeats by Repton, Rugby, Oakham and KES Birmingham all followed the same pattern. We could hurt teams but spent too much of all our matches scrapping manfully while under significant pressure. A little less panic at the back and a little more composure in midfield might have turned around one of these reverses. Nevertheless, there was once a day when beating Gresham’s was the mark of a good season and we can say we did that. Having won through as Bedfordshire champions in the National Schools’ Championship, we played very well indeed at the east region tournament. Just when it looked like we might – again – not be rewarded for this, we put in the performance of the

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season to beat Gresham’s thanks to a goal from Omotomilola. A result this coach will hold on to for dear life and which should inspire the team to greater heights next season. The spine of this group is strong: it has an excellent goalkeeper in Patel, a supremely talented central midfielder in Kieran Whitehall and a dangerous striker in Harrison Burgoine. Tom Parry captained the side extremely well, at times trying to do too much on the field to rouse the troops. He is, though, a very good player indeed and will show this in future years. Omotomilola and Orchard showed significant promise. At the moment, though, the defence is prone to panic and we struggle to support Whitehall – who should take the double marking and bad tackles he invariably received as compliments. Much to work on for next season. Squad: Parry T. (captain), Burgoine H., Christian G., Clarke E., Gay E., Hardwicke V., Kendall J., Medley A., Omotomilola R., Orchard A., Parry T., Patel S., Sear L., Whelan F., Whitehall K., Willcocks W. and Wilshaw-Quinn B. M.T. Herring

U14 B This season was a difficult one for the U14 B XI, primarily due to the fact that the year group lacked experienced hockey players. Luckily, those new to the game picked up the basics quickly and were soon competing gamely with players who had been playing the sport for years. The team should be congratulated for this effort, for their dedication to the sport and for keeping their heads up at all times in an obviously tough season. In fact, although the results look very disappointing on paper, this was not the story of the season. The defeats made it easy to see what we had to work on and made every training session productive as the boys were keen to improve. Perhaps the highlight of the season demonstrated this. Having lost heavily in our first three games, including a thumping by a very strong Repton side, we travelled to Rugby keen to make amends. A strong defensive performance, led by Felix Whelan and Oliver Simmons, kept us in the game and at 1–2 down we were looking more than capable of securing a draw. Our attack began to function well – Oliver Blundell and Felix Asare looked threatening – but some less than calm finishing meant we never equalised. As always with sides struggling for results, the sucker punch came: Rugby scored on the break late on and we were left to ask what might have been. Certainly, a 1–3 defeat was significantly less than we deserved. This slightly took the wind from our sails; though KES Birmingham and Oakham were good sides, we did

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not compete as well as we might have in our final two games. In short, then, a ‘disappointing’ season ‘results-wise’, but we came on in leaps and bounds throughout the season. More than anything, this was our aim in January. Another year of hard training should see us improve upon this year’s results. Squad: Trudgill W. (captain), Asare F., Blore D., Blundell O., Brakenbury J., Chand T., George J., Judge M., Lawson H., Lister M., Ogunyiluka A., O’Riordan P., Patel J., Simmons O., Whelan F. and Willcocks W. Will Trudgill

U14 C The C team truly performed well, when considering the results of their A and B team friends. Having lost the first two games 0–22 and 3–4 to Trent and Bromsgrove, they pulled a miraculous win out of the bag away at Repton 1–0, being the only Bedford team to beat the Derbyshire school away that day. A Stoke versus Bolton style 0–0 draw followed at Rugby, before the season was rounded off with a 3–1 win and a 1–1 draw, both against Oakham. That left the season tally at won two, lost two, drawn two, with a considerable improvement in skill level along the way. Squad: Borland A. (captain), Bornemann L., Bouvier E., Chand T., Chappell-Mason E., Chen T., Clayton S., Higgs M., Ksenofontov E., Mahwendepi T., Ogunyiluka A., Patel J., Todd A., Vargas-Pritchard S. and Yin M. J.S. Dunne

U14 D You could not wish to meet a nicer group of young men. These boys were an absolute pleasure to be with for the term and I thank them for all the effort they put in to the training sessions and matches. In relation to results we were not very successful, but the improvements made in terms of individual development and game understanding were huge. The fact that our best display was left until our last match was testament to this and was a fitting end to a thoroughly enjoyable campaign. The mighty U14 D team comprised of the superb lads listed below. Squad: Duxbury J. and Golver C. (captains), Chan W., Choi M., Chrisman J., Davies M., Holland D., Liu T., Liu Y., Perkins S., Sandhu J. and Tipper O. B.J. Burgess

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THE FIRST ELEVEN It is my privilege to be able to reflect on a season that has, for the 1st XI, seen 17 wins and one draw in 20 matches, with defeats by Tonbridge and Millfield the only blips. At home, our fortress, we won 11 out of 11. We were national U17 champions when we defeated Bradfield College by 150 runs in the final; we were semi-finalists in the 1st XI National Twenty20, and we reached the last 16 of the U15 ESCA Cup. 51 out of 73 matches (69 per cent) were won across the club. The U15 age group were undefeated, and the U15 Cs are now undefeated for two seasons. It all started, as it did last year, in Dubai, a tour that has so successfully gelled our 1st XI squads over the past two seasons, and set up a summer term of not just high quality cricket, but also a powerful and palpable team spirit – one that other sides have been intimidated by. I’m not saying that we would not have been strong without Dubai, but I am convinced we would not have been as strong or as tight. The tour has paid dividends in terms of results and, more importantly, in the strong bonds that have been formed between the players. Our Twenty20 campaign was a highlight, and to reach finals day at Arundel was a triumph in a strong competition involving more than 150 schools. The result (a loss to Millfield in the semi-final) was disappointing for all of us, but the boys left it all out on the pitch and made us proud – they are a credit to Bedford School. The 1st XI season was an extraordinary success, and one week in particular is worth recounting: a 171 run win against Shrewsbury (337–5) (Charlie Thurston scored 125, Paddy McDuell got 105 and Ben Slawinski took 3–40) on the Saturday; an 80-run demolition of Denstone on the Monday to qualify for finals day; a 45-run win against Harrow (271–8) (Shiv Patel took 5–39) on the Tuesday; a 165-run win against Dulwich (334–4) (Alex Axon scored 139, Patel got 101 not out, McDuell scored 60 and Will Wright 4–14) on the Thursday; and a one-run semi-final victory over Sedbergh on the Friday. Five stunning wins against quality opposition in just seven

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days. As the Head Master said in an assembly, there can never have been a run quite like it in the school’s history. To those lads who are playing their last games for the school this year, an enormous thank you for your contributions to school cricket over the past five years.

by Thurston, in 2012 by Ed Wharton and in 2011 by James Kettleborough, was a very tough choice between several matchchanging performances. However, this year, the Alex Wakely shirt for the best single performance of the year went to Patel. The Twenty20 player of the year came down to five players: Slawinski, Patel, Thurston, Axon and Ajay Momi. The inaugural winner of the Twenty20 player of the year was Momi who scored 177 runs. The 2014 XI: Captain (and honours cap): C.O. Thurston Colours: C.R. Clarke; B. Slawinski, P.R.J. McDuell, W.F.P. Wright, S.P. Patel, Squad: Axon A., Bradbeer T., Chodha N., Duxbury J., Furbank G., Momi A., Selvey J. and Wright R. P. Sherwin

THE SECOND ELEVEN

To the awards: The Mike Green Batting Trophy, won the past two years by Thurston and before him by James Kettleborough, was hotly contested this year. Four averaged 39 or more across all formats. McDuell scored two tons on his way to 747 runs, and Patel scored his 691 runs at 62.82. However, the award went to a batter that passed the 1,000-run mark for the third year running, and was only 45 runs shy of the school record. With 1,236 runs at 56.2, with five 50s and five 100s, for the third successive year, the trophy went to the skipper Thurston. The Richard Wise Bowling Cup, won in 2011 and 2012 by Vicram Sohal and last year by Will Wright, was hotly contested also. Four bowlers claimed more than 20 scalps this season, and two more than 40. It could have gone either way but the winner of the Richard Wise Bowling Cup for 2014, with 46 wickets at 13.24, was McDuell. The Cricket XI Challenge Cup for the best all-round cricketer of the year, won in 2011 by Ash Patel, in 2012 by Ed Wharton, and last year by McDuell, was contested by McDuell again (45 wickets and 747 runs). However, this year it was won by a man who took 40 wickets at 9.25 (with a best of 7–60) and scored 691 runs with six 50s and one hundred: Patel. The H.C. Orr Fielding Trophy was won last year by Luke Adams and before him by Tim Graham and Jack Goldberg. This year, in an excellent fielding group, it went to a bloke with a great pair of hands, a good arm, and probably the most efficient ground fielder in the side. He is quick across the ground and able to pick and release very quickly: George Furbank. The man of the match performance of the year, won last year

‘A bit like the curate’s egg.’ I don’t know about you but I’ve always found that phrase very annoying. Who was this curate? And what was the problem with his egg? If it was only good in parts, why didn’t he take the box back to Tesco instead of telling everyone about it and lumbering us with a lazy cliché often used in school cricket reports? Played 11, won six, lost five. Good in parts. Whatever the merits or demerits of the season, the 2nd XI is a pleasure and privilege to run (try telling that to Mr Braithwaite on a Friday evening when four players have just found open days, weddings, anniversaries and rock festivals to attend) and this season was no different. A diverse bunch of characters, no shortage of cricketing ability, a travelling army of supporters and a range of opponents from the sublimely good to the ridiculously bad. To focus on the characters first, the success of a 2nd XI can often be judged by the numbers of upper sixth who still play and enjoy their school cricket. Not many opponents had as many as we did. George Cox was a noble, imperious and unflappable skipper. James Skirrow was the Jekell and Hyde of Bedford cricket. Top-hatted, elegant and charming with a 6–7 at Shrewsbury but whiskered, hairy-handed and salivating as he bowled loosely at St Albans. Adit Shah got good early season runs, had sharp hands at silly mid-off and has very good game knowledge. Ollie Lyons made Harley Davidson-type noises but only performed like a Honda 50. Except at Oakham, of which, later. Hadley Eames won promotion from the 3rd XI and

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contributed handsomely with bat and ball, despite the 4th XI footwear. Ben Nethersole reminded us that we really do have some hidden talent at the school and should do more to develop it. Fayed Farrukh sadly bowed out after many good contributions over the past few years. From the lower years, Selvey and McLeod (sounds like one of the faux luxury brand names that Matalan choose to put on their men’s clothing range) – Josh and Ollie, respectively – were a strong opening attack. Who can forget Selvey’s devastating four overs at Oakham and Shrewsbury? George Cochrane-Davis struggled for runs with the bat but was a worthy change bowler and an outstanding fielder. The loss of Ben Clarke, excellent with bat and gloves, to various injuries changed the balance of wins and defeats, without any doubt. Robin Hampshire leapt about trying to cope with the variation in bounce and width of a 2nd XI attack and deserves considerable praise. Raj Sunner is strong, fast and a good batsman but fell foul of injury. The best wins came in close games against Stowe, Shrewsbury and the OBs. The latter was particularly encouraging with younger players given the chance to show the depth in cricketing ability in the school. Felsted and Norwich were rather

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weak and looked like U16 teams, especially compared to the giant Cox, Skirrow, and Lyons. Oakham was demolished by Lyons. Note my deliberate use of the singular here because I am referring to the school rather than their cricket team. A barrage of artillery shells was let off and considerable damage done to the fabric of the school during 25 minutes of brutality. Sadly for us, and for local property maintenance companies, this wasn’t to be repeated. At the other extreme, St Albans (full of chippy club players), Harrow and some Aussies from Melbourne were too good for us by a fair margin on the day. The last-over defeat to Oundle was particularly frustrating but made respectable by a memorable contribution from the hitherto uncelebrated Eames and Eddie Parkin. So, highs and lows, laughter and tears, sun and rain, triumph and despair, elation and frustration, Selvey and McLeod, a suit of real quality. Machine washable. An annual thank you to Mr Braithwaite for doing a lion’s share of the work this year, to the McLeods and the Cochrane-Davises for the unstinting support and tweets and to all the back-up at Bedford School, especially the ground staff and caterers. Squad: Cox G. (captain), Choda N., Clarke B., Cochrane-Davis G., Eames H., Farrukh F., Hampshire R., Lyons O., McLeod O., Nethersole B., Parkin E., Selvey J., Shah A., Skirrow J. and Sunner R. R.E. Heale

THE THIRD ELEVEN Our first game was away at Oakham. Our captain, Ben Nethersole, won the toss and elected to bowl first. This game saw a good bowling performance by Bedford with wickets coming from Robin Hampshire, Jack Diemer, Harry David and two each for brothers Marcus and Hadley Eames. At the end of the first innings Oakham had scored 106. Bedford then batted and we scored well with Archie Rush being the highest scorer with 32 not out. Bedford won the game by four wickets. In our second game we played Oundle, again away. Oundle won the toss and decided to bat first. With no one from Oundle scoring particularly highly, Bedford were presented with a very reachable target of 94. Wickets came from Marcus Eames, David, Jack Puddicombe, Jack Lewsley and two from Diemer. Milan Nakum was the pick of the bowlers with a great performance, taking four wickets from three overs and only giving away two runs! Our batting was not as strong, with the second highest score being only seven. However, a superb

performance from Nethersole, scoring 60, saved us and ultimately meant Bedford won by three wickets. St Albans is where we probably played our best cricket of the season, even though we were defeated! The opposition won the toss and elected to bat and scored a total of 205 runs for five wickets in 20 overs, with one wicket each being taken by David, Saurav Karmakar and Lewsley as well as a hat-trick from Marcus Eames. 205 runs in a 20-over chase was always going to be an uphill battle, but we got off to a flyer with openers Michael Holroyd and Rush getting 24 and 13 respectively off three overs. However, this was then followed by a collapse, and, although Diemer got 48, the game was gone and St Albans won by 42 runs.

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In our final match Bedford were bowled out for around 70 against Stowe and they chased it off in no time – a match to be forgotten! Overall, however, it was a very enjoyable season. Squad: Nethersole B. (captain), David H., Diemer J., Eames H., Eames M., Garratt T., Hampshire R., Hart D., Holroyd M., Karmakar S., Lewsley J., Nakum M., Puddicombe J. and Rush A. Milan Nakum and Jack Lewsley

COLTS A Colts cricket is always a difficult one to manage, with exams and study leave coming in after a couple of weeks of the season. Uppingham away was our first fixture and confidence was high as the lads bowled with pace, direction and enthusiasm in getting the home team out for 49. Max Thackara was the pick of the bowlers with 4–12, and Kamran Ahmed 2–3. Oliver Burgess and Adit Shah batted nicely and knocked off the runs in just six overs. Little did we know that this would be the highlight of the season … Weeks later, the chat on the Shrewsbury bus on the way down will have been about how they were up for a massive test against last year’s national finalists. What they didn’t know was that half the team were on the beach, playing for the firsts, or had simply disappeared into post-GCSE oblivion, not to be heard from again until September. The ever-dependable Karan Gupta had been drafted in and clearly the biggest victory of the day was getting 11 men onto the pitch – this we did. Our wicketkeeper, John Holroyd, had left all his kit at home (how does that happen?)

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and so decided he would keep in his 1980s Miami Vice-style sunglasses. We lost the toss and trundled out with only Jake Carter really offering any enthusiasm for the task ahead. Their opener had been with their firsts until recently and was soon on his way to 80-odd. The other opener looked on with disgust, however, as I gave him lbw first ball (but he was plumb, honest guv …). The scoreboard rattled along at nine per over, until Carter came on and took a wicket in his first over. This delight turned to despair when we realised their next batsmen was also a first teamer (why weren’t these lads playing 100 yards away?) and he scored 50 off 20 balls, including a number into the pigeon enclosure which had to be retrieved by Burgess (which was torturous in itself). Alex Williams came on and bowled with pace, securing three wickets, Gupta and Carter taking two great catches. However 258–6 off 30 was always going to be a tough ask … Tea was taken, Gupta lasted three balls; we were one down quickly. Shah played quite nicely, Toby Clarke edged his way to 25, and we kept at it. Burgess and Carter hit a few but only just got to respectability before being all out for 85. Harrow were up next and this was a better showing. Having lost the toss and been put in to field, Burgess, our stand-in captain, rallied the lads as best he could. Carter again provided the vocal enthusiasm and we enjoyed some early success to have them down at 44 for five by the 12th over. They then rallied with a partnership that took it away from us, the next wicket falling at 133. A few lusty blows from tail-enders took them to 197–9 off the 30 but, all round, a much improved showing compared to the previous game. When we were in to bat,

U15 A

Burgess and Michael Holroyd got us off to a solid start with an opening stand of 40, pretty much at the required rate. Burgess continued to top score with 37, but when he was out, our hopes went with him. John Holroyd hit some solid blows for his 24, but the rain interruptions didn’t help and we were all-out for 114. Our final game saw us host Kings Sydney and the return of Chris Bracewell, Jack Twigden, Aidan Swain and Arun Kalyan bolstered the ranks. Some tidy batting from the Australians saw them amass 220 off 35 overs. Kalyan, holding a bat for the first time in a year due to injury, set about their attack at the required rate but we couldn’t build partnerships effectively and, when he was out for 62, hopes rested with Burgess who played nicely for 43. All out for 177, this was a disappointing end to the season. However, given the difficulty in just getting men on the field, it was an enjoyable season nonetheless. Squad: Swain A. (captain), Ahmed K., Anstis B., Bracewell C., Burgess O., Carter J., Clarke T., Gupta K., Holroyd J., Holroyd M., Kalyan A., Pudylyk S., Shah A., Simmons J., Smith W., Thackara M., Twigden J., Weed E. and Williams A. C.J. Bury

The U15 A team had a great season as U14s in 2013, so big things were expected as we set out on a Lord’s Taverners campaign in 2014. The squad started with a Dubai preseason tour, coached by Mr Montgomery and Mr Dunne. We won three of our five games; Emilio Gay picked up the player of the tour award for scoring well throughout the tour and other highlights were a couple of 50s from Olly Thrasher and a six-wicket haul for Shaylen Tomlinson-Patel which included a hat-trick. The main season began with a comfortable win over Felsted, scoring 180 in 30 overs which included a quick-fire 40 from Ben Kight. Bedford went on the bowl Felsted out for 90 with a good fielding display, including a good close-in catch by Ewan Cox. The second game was a slightly tougher challenge as Bedford set 150 against a strong Oakham side. After a good start by Oakham, Bedford eventually ran home as winners with a relatively comfortable 40-run win. After winning our first two games, we were quietly confident going into our first Taverners game against a weak Ferrers team. Bedford set a massive 290 runs from their 40 overs, which included Bhavik Talsania just missing out on three figures and a century from Thrasher. Bedford went on to bowl Ferrers out for a total less than 100. After a comfortable win against Oundle, which included Tomlinson-Patel scoring a quick 70, we came up against a strong side in the form of Bromsgrove in the second round of the

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Lord’s Taverners. Bedford batted first and only managed 150 which included a good 50 by Gay. Bromsgrove went on to chase the target down with ease after a shocking fielding display from Bedford which included two dropped catches. We came back strongly from our defeat the following week against Stowe. From 30 overs Stowe managed a respectable 170, only to be easily chased down by Bedford. The highlight was a big six over the pavilion from Talsania which was one of many great shots in a rapid 95 not out. Going into our last game Bedford wanted to go out on a high. Having to travel to the opposition for most of our games so far, it came as a relief that we finally had a home game against Trent. After starting well, Bedford managed to amass a good total of 210. Highlights were another 90 from Talsania, a steady 50 from Cox, and a shot from Will Barrett that looked to be going for six, only to hit the tree and be called a four. Bedford cleaned up what was a weak Trent side for less than 100. The high points of the season were Barrett’s wicket-keeping, Tomlinson-Patel’s captaincy, Elliott Wingfield’s accurate bowling, Toby Nevett’s consistent off-spin, Will Comfort’s catching in the field, Edward Johnson’s ability to tie the batsmen down with accurate and consistent fast bowling and Ollie Hind’s interesting banter in the field. Thanks go to Mr Dunne and Mr Montgomery for coaching us well this season. Squad: Tomlinson-Patel S. (captain), Barrett W., Comfort W., Cox E., Dennis A., Gay E., Gouldstone H., Hind O., Johnson E., Kight B., Nevett T., Patel A., Smith W., Talsania B., Thrasher O. and Wingfield E. Oliver Thrasher

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U15 B The U15 B team had a successful season, with both the batting line-up and bowling attack firing often. Our results ranged from big scores, such as 227 in 25 overs, to close games like the match against Shrewsbury (in which we took the game in the penultimate over with one batsman to spare). Also gaps in the As because of injury were filled with barely any loss of quality: a testament to the strength and depth our year has. The U15 Bs had aggressive batsmen who could increase the run rate whenever we needed, and also players that were methodical and technical that set the foundations for any innings. Team morale was high throughout the season: the team was light-hearted, but when it was time to focus we focused. There was always a buzz in the field which never stagnated and this gave us a mental advantage. Squad: Barnes J., Bowes W., Chapman J., Dennis A., Forsythe W., Garcha H., Mohammed S., Patel A., Smith W., Sporton A., Stewart T. and van der Walt J. Alex Dennis

U15 C This season was a very successful one for the U15 C team. This was the second unbeaten season for our team. We won all five of our matches. We played: Stowe, Uppingham, Shrewsbury, Harrow and St Albans. During these five games we were able to reach two of our highest scores. These came against Shrewsbury and Uppingham. We were able to score over 190 runs in each. These were thanks to a 60 from Harry Guthrie against Uppingham and a joint effort from Darcy Clements and Robert Brown against Shrewsbury. Although these were relatively easy victories there were some not so easy victories

such as at St Albans. We held them back to a score of 120 and had a hard chase from then on. We needed five runs from four balls and Clements decided to finish the game in style by hitting the next ball for six to complete the innings, the game and the second unbeaten season. We hope to be able to continue this form again. Thank you for coaching us, Mr Melvill. Squad: Diemer M. (captain), Andrews G., Brown R., Chukwu C., Clements D., Ekweremandu K., Gee C., Guthrie H., Hill L., Kane C., Kerr W., Marks H., Sedgewick W., Shepherd A, and Walker H. Matt Diemer

U14 A The U14 A team was comprised of players who had played for a variety of teams the previous year; this was evident early in the season with an effective team unit yet to be formed. At Oakham, batsman only made 20s before finding inventive ways to get themselves dismissed. We were unable to defend our modest total of 122 and lost by six wickets. The trend continued at Oundle where, when set an eminently achievable target of 145, we collapsed from 72â&#x20AC;&#x201C;1 to 107 all out. It is therefore a credit to the side that they lost just one further match, developing a steely determination and strong work ethic along the way. Led by the tactically astute Emilio Gay, they developed

a habit of setting competitive totals and then squeezing the opposition in the middle overs of their run chase. Victories against Norwich, Stowe and Shrewsbury, as well as a run in the County Cup which led them to be crowned county champions against Sharnbrook, capped a fine season; only a loss away at Harrow punctuated this fine run of form. In the batting department the side often got off to a strong start with Gay passing 50 on five occasions and Ali Hassan scoring two 50s while regularly reaching 40. Other batsman added crucial runs for us when needed. Jason George registered a fine 50 at Stowe and showed that he was more than capable of taking the game to the opposition bowlers with some memorable stroke play around the ground at Shrewsbury. Victor Hardwicke often came in and turned the pressure on to the opposition by superb running between the wickets, twinned with some incredibly hard hitting. In other matches Harry Beard became a master of picking up a run a ball in the middle overs. Archie Young-Lee did not score the weight of runs that he might have hoped for following a good start to the season but he and Alfie Orchard were instrumental in our cup-final win; their 30 and 34 respectively took the game away from Sharnbrook in the final overs of our innings. When in the field the side were lucky enough to open the bowling with Kieran Whitehall whose miserly spells, often with extreme away swing, usually put the opposition batsmen on the back foot. Whitehall was ably assisted by Tom Parry and Oli Blundell at the beginning of the season, with Kieran Duxbury providing a third seam option and Connor Finch also bowling overs for the side; if these four can develop further consistency next year they have the makings of a strong bowling attack. It was, however, in the middle overs where we won many of our games. Jaynil Patel was excellent throughout, picking up ten wickets. He often bowled in tandem with George whose off-spin darts from around the wicket throttled several run chases. It was in this period of the game that we often saw overs of thoughtful seam from Gay who took nine wickets with varying pace. When conditions favoured slow bowling we also

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saw overs from Hassan who picked up seven wickets and from Beard, a wicket-taker who can extract pronounced turn. As we reached the end of the season it was fantastic to see how the belief of the team, and self-confidence of individuals, had grown. The inclusion of Orchard when fit and Marcus Lake bought a welcome intensity to our fielding that I hope will be built upon next year. This is a group of players with a strong desire to do well and some of them will be looking to press for positions in the U17s or 1st team next year; this will bring both challenge and opportunity to others who will need to shoulder further responsibility for bowling tightly or making big scores. The group will also need to work tirelessly on their fielding which was not always a strength; such a focus may make all the difference in the games that go to the wire. It was a pleasure to work with the U14 As during the season. The squad are a group of charming young men whose company I enjoyed greatly; crucially, they played the game in a wonderful spirit, desperate to win but not at any cost. Squad: Gay E. (captain), Beard H., Blundell O., Duxbury K., Finch C., George J., Hardwicke V., Hassan A., Lake M., Orchard A., Parry T., Patel J., Whitehall K. and Young-Lee A. W.R. Montgomery

U14 B The U14 B cricket season 2014 really only got underway midway through May, as our opening two fixtures were called off. Now, who doesn’t appreciate a free Saturday afternoon? Certainly not this coach, though the reasons for game abandonment were more or less valid: ‘rain stopped play’ did for Felsted, one of only two home fixtures, cancelled because of a perennial uncovered wicket problem (more valid); the second, an away trip to Oakham on Prize Giving Day, was cancelled because A and B teams were equated with C and D teams – we were off, then back on when the true identity of teams without a game was revealed, by which point half of my team had taken themselves home (less valid). From such inauspicious beginnings, our season then split into two halves: one win before half-term at Oundle was followed up by two more straight after the break, against Norwich (at home, thankfully) and Stowe away, when everyone was keen to get

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back for England’s WC opener against Italy. Perhaps that’s why they let us bowl them out for 32 … If the above were to be entitled ‘the winning half’ of the season, it doesn’t take a genius to predict what came next. No one likes to lose but if one must, it is preferable to travel a shortish distance in order to do so. Our first defeat came at Shrewsbury, compounded by the lengthy bus journey home and the theft of my team bag of Haribo. That was by 39 runs and saw our best batsman on the day, Will Willcocks, head to the medical centre with an undiagnosable condition. Back to winning ways at Harrow? Of all the fixtures you would want to see straight after a defeat, Harrow is not it. They are always strong and we always play them on a week night. Just an observation … Last game of the season at St Albans came around; my last ever in charge. It appeared the opposition coaches had been standing around for about three hours by the time our buses pulled through the tropical storms affecting the M1 that afternoon. Maybe that explains the un-Bedford-like welcome and quick disappearance after the game of their U14 B coach. Anyway, they won by 12 runs because our captain, Conor Finch, got out – they did not know how to bowl to him – but that was a winnable game like Shrewsbury and we were only ever outplayed by Harrow all season. It has been great to coach this side for six seasons; fellow coaches point out that I never got a promotion, but I’d like to think I was never relegated … heartfelt thanks to Tim Machin, Peter Oakley and Derek Randall (if he’s reading) for giving me an idea of how to coach, and Mont and Pete for Sri Lanka. My first season was the most successful but the names to follow from this last season were probably the most likeable to coach. Squad: Finch C. (captain), Backenbury J., Barden S., Bird A., Blore D., Blundell O., Clarke E, Clayton S., Iles F., Kendall J., Lake M., O’Riodan P. and Willocks W. L.S.E. Gearing

U14 C The U14 C side had little success in terms of results in the 2013–14 season, but it’s certainly true that plenty of committed and, at times, attractive cricket was played in the furthest corners of sporting fields across the circuit. We were very much a bowling side; the pace of Reni Omotomilola and the accuracy of Will Trudgill troubled many a team. Rather less convincing was the batting with the majority of the wickets given away cheaply and with many of the sacred conventions of correct form woefully forgotten. Charles Glover led the team with a commanding set of lungs and a creative approach to setting fields. Our mantra for the season was to improve a core skill each session, and the boys certainly succeeded in this respect. They played the game in good spirits and it was a joy to watch the likes of Winki Chan and Thomas Liu take part in their first game and claim their first scalps. Squad: Glover C. (captain), Bornemann P., Brock J., Chan W., Ksenofontov E., Lister M., Liu T., Gulliver T., Ogunyiuka A., Omotomilola R., Trudgill W. and Yin M. S.A. Adams

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THE FIRST EIGHT The 2013–14 season started with the usual focus on small boats in preparation for the smaller winter head races ahead of us. The long, idle months before meant that it took some time for the boys to get back into the full swing of things, but with a larger group than usual, the process was made a lot easier. Bedford Small Boats Head was the first race of the season for the senior squad, entering three novice fours into the race. The boys produced a solid set of results for the amount we had done despite not all boats making it down without an accident. After the warmer than usual winter term, focus began to turn towards the larger boats and, with a new set of arrivals, also known as ‘the rugby boys’, the even larger group was split into three matched eights who would race at the Eton invitational head or ‘BASHER’. Despite early cases of flooding, we managed to get in a number of good, hard (and very competitive) training sessions for each eight, which put us in good stead for BASHER. We were met by the usual blustery conditions of Dorney Lake for the head which we were all very used to at this point and so headed out onto the lake with what seemed like an underlying desire to beat the other two matched eights more than we maybe should have. To the coaches’ delight, the three boats finished with very close times and in the top half of the overall leader board. The second term was severely hindered by weeks and weeks of flooding, which resulted in perhaps more land training than we would have wanted. This meant that the coaches would spend weeks searching for a suitable race for us to take part in that hadn’t been affected by the countrywide floods. Despite not being able to race for longer than we would have preferred, this time allowed us to put together the first pieces of a 1st and 2nd VIII, which we would put out at the first available race, Nottingham Head. Both crews raced well in very different circumstances. The 1st VIII were, unfortunately, too far behind

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the crew in front, and too far in front of the crew behind to be able to enjoy any really competitive racing. Nonetheless, two fast times were entered and we felt fairly confident on the brink of Schools’ Head. Unfortunately, the flooding meant that we were unable to make our usual two-day training trip down to the Tideway ahead of Schools’ Head, but we still managed to get some valuable mileage down at our river. The boys in the 1st VIII felt confident going into Schools’ Head as things were starting to fall nicely into place and fitness levels began to peak. The race was tough as ever but we came off the water feeling very excited about how we had done in the unusually good conditions. We came a much improved seventh in the 1st VIII category, only 45 seconds behind the leaders, which stood us in good stead for the summer months ahead which we felt would suit us more. The transition into the summer season was marked with a trip to Sarnen, Switzerland, which saw the senior squad check in some valuable mileage, as well as make serious improvements

to our individual strokes. Two members of the 1st VIII, Tom Lousada, and vice-captain Tom Bruce, took the prize for the Crosby pairs competition which was well contested by Charles Seamark and Rob Evans, with self-proclaimed favourites Zac Carter and Mik Glik crashing out in the first round. Overall, the trip provided the senior squad with lessons both on and off the water and allowed the group the chance to really gel which would set us up nicely for the regatta season (see separate article for details). The beginning of the regatta season meant the first 2 km ergo of the year, an event dreaded by all. Round one saw a very impressive set of results for the senior squad, with a number of personal bests coming from the likes of Will Reynolds. However, particular mention must go to 1st VIII bow man, Tom Bruce, who, despite being the lightest crew member, managed to pull a 6.40.5: not bad. A highlight of the 1st VIII’s regatta season was Bedford Regatta. The pressure was on when the winning 1st VIII of 1964 showed up to watch us race but, after meeting them earlier in the day, the boys felt inspired to pull something big off. We won all four of our races during the day which put us into the final against Warwick University 1st VIII, who had a combined weight of roughly 550 kg. We followed the pattern of our day and flew out the blocks to hold them off over the finish line which gave us the win in front of our home crowd. This win would see us make a transition from the IM3 event to the higher IM2 category for future races as a crew. This made our regatta season more challenging as we raced against far more experienced crews thereafter. However, it allowed us to realise any flaws we had in our race plan, and gave us time to work on and fix these in time for the bigger races such as National Schools and Henley. With 20 entries in the Child Beale eights the event started with the traditional time trial in which we produced a strong result, finishing eighth, only six seconds behind the winners. Unfortunately for the 1st VIII, National Schools finished earlier than we would have liked. We placed fifth in our semi-final behind Pangbourne, Monmouth and Winchester (who we had beaten at Bedford Regatta). We were unfortunate in our lane allocation for the semi-final but didn’t want to make any excuses, and so we turned our heads to the championship 4+ and 4– events we had entered for the following day. The huge entry list, along with the sudden illness of our bow man, Bruce, meant that the 4+ did not progress from the time trial; however, the 4– put in a great effort in the time trial to finish fifth and so qualifying for the semi-finals. A solid row here ahead of Monmouth, Radley and rivals Reading Blue Coats produced a third-place finish and so we qualified for the championship final for the second consecutive year, ahead of some big names such as Radley and Abingdon. The crew of Guy Davis, Seamark, Lousada and Carter were placed sixth but were very pleased with what we had achieved. Henley preparations were hampered by a Cuba biology trip that meant, after some seat racing, two of the gold medal winning Colts VIII were drafted into the 1st VIII. Henley marked the end of the season for the 1st VIII and the Boat Club. The 1st VIII drew championship eights national finalists Radley in the first

round, and so felt a mixture of nerves and excitement ahead of the race. We stayed at a nice house for the week and enjoyed some useful final training sessions leading up to race day, in which we were able to do some practice pieces with schools such as Montclair High School of America. Our race plan was to make good use of our fast start and to be a nuisance to the fast Radley crew in the hope of putting them in a position that they were not used to. However, the experience and talent of the Radley crew proved to be too strong for us and, despite the boys leaving everything out on the river, we were unable to overcome the challenge. This marked the end of a very enjoyable and successful season and also left everyone feeling excited about the 2014–15 season, which will see the lower sixth boys merge with the gold medal winning fifth-form squad to form a very dangerous 1st VIII, to whom I wish all the best. National Schools’ crew: Beal M., Bruce T., Carter Z., Davis G., Evans R., Lousada T., Reynolds W., Seamark C. and Winder J. Henley crew: Beal M., Beal S., Bruce T., Carter Z., Evans R., Hunt J., Lousada T., Seamark C. and Winder J. Zac Carter

THE SECOND EIGHT The spring term produced promising results for the 2nd VIII crew. The first event at Trent Head of the River in matched eights was a good start to the season with two strong performances. The Schools’ Head on the Tideway was our second and final head race. Once again, the weather tested us all but overall we were pleased with our result. For our rowing camp this year, we went once more to Sarnen in Switzerland for a week’s high intensity training. The beautiful location, good facilities and team spirit made for a very enjoyable and memorable trip (see separate article). In April we took part in the regular BASHER regatta, competing against a select group of rival schools. This showed the high level of competition that we needed to attain this season. The home event of Bedford Regatta took place later that term. The atmosphere, as always, was brilliant. However, due to mechanical problems the competition ended early for the 2nd VIII. Once again we attended the final schools-only event, National Schools at Holme Pierrepoint. For us the draw was immensely challenging. This, along with bad weather, led to some very disappointing results. As a crew, we took on board the challenge of IM3 VIIIs at Peterborough and achieved a good second-place finish, being beaten by a much bigger (and older) Warwick University crew. We finished the season by experiencing the Henley qualifying rounds which, although we were unsuccessful, we felt privileged to take part in given the prestige of the occasion. Squad: Blakemore T., Booton T., Dempsey C., Edwards T., Frossell D., Harvey J., Howard B., Lombardo V., Maltby O., Stephenson D., Trustram-Eve J. and Wellington J. Tom Blakemore

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THE FIRST FOUR Soon after our Sarnen training camp over Easter, the decision was made by Mr Mulkerrins to create a four made out of the stern four of the 2nd XIII. This decision was influenced by a belief that a four would have better medal potential at National Schools than a 2nd XIII. In our first training session together we noticed an immediate potential and unity. Having only trained together for about 8 km as a crew, we already noticed the power and rhythm we naturally possessed and were keen to utilise this. From then on our main focus was on a smooth rhythm around the finish and, instead of simply going through the motions, treating every stoke like it was the most important of our careers. After only about two weeks training together and conscious to test our racing speed, we went to Nottingham City Regatta. We went into the semi-final with a crew decision to just go hard and fast and see how we do. We did this and for about 1,950 metres it worked perfectly: we jumped off the start and pulled away powerfully from bigger, older crews. However, due to our lack of racing experience together we panicked and at no point did we really capitalise and dominate the race. We simply stuck in our position and eventually got rowed through into third in the last 50 metres. Although we were massively disappointed at our final position we were confident with our strong start that we could pull away early in the final and win our first race. Frustratingly, however, the final did not go to plan. Once again we led for the first 100 metres but the wind caught hold of us and we struggled throughout the race. Disappointingly, we came sixth but left Nottingham with confidence that, with another week of training, we could improve at National Schools. Arriving at National Schools we didn’t really have anything to lose. We were confident in our ability but had no idea how good the competition would be. We found out that the competition was in fact a lot stronger than expected as we only made it through the time trial by 0.5 of a second. This didn’t bode well

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and, as expected, we were not able to progress to the final. However, we were positive. We all agreed that we rowed the best we ever had in that semi-final and were happy with how we had performed; we couldn’t have given any more. Considering we only had a few weeks rowing together in the four and we had a man struggling with illness, we all thought it was a decent result. We saw the four as a great experience: the main strength of the crew was the strong bond that existed between the five of us. We all had the same ethos which was to just go hard and see what happens. We always had a laugh even after the hardest training. Huge thanks are due to our coaches, Martin Birch and Mr Mulkerrins, for everything they did for us. Crew: Glik M., Hall T., Humphreys T., Malindine M. and Stephenson J. Tom Humphreys

SARNEN 2014 Once again the Boat Club went to Sarnen in Switzerland during the Easter holidays, with the senior squad and one J16 crew attending. On arrival the sun was shining and it continued to do so for most of the week, so it was sun cream and vests all round. Mr Ingle decided to implement a game he had played on many camps before, where if someone says ‘mine’ then they have to do ten press-ups. Well, from that moment on, everyone was trying to catch each other out, with questions such as ‘whose is this?’ being asked around the hostel and even on the water. Thomas Bruce had a very interesting experience. After falling in when trying to push off with Tom Lousada in a pair, they rowed over to the rest of the group who were cheering them. Someone decided to ask whose fault it was, with Bruce replying ‘mine’ and you know what that meant… tenpress-ups in a pair! Their luck did improve later in the week, however, as they went on to win the Crosby pairs event that was held on one of the sunny afternoons halfway through the camp. The week was mainly spent in fours, both coxed and coxless,

with the advantage being that the lake was so large there were no obstacles or banks so the coxless fours could veer everywhere and anywhere. It also meant we could practise more competitive racing pieces over a longer distance which was good training for the season in front of us. Nearing the end of the week, the water decided to get a little livelier, so we started to do eights work, and even ended up doing a dreaded ergo! Also, as we obviously hadnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been doing enough exercise, we all enjoyed playing football or volleyball most evenings. Overall, the week was very productive with lots of hard work on the lake and some revision somewhere in the middle! It set us up well for the summer season, with everyone glad to have a few days off on their return to let their hands recover. We all had a great time and would like to thank Mr Mulkerrins, Dr Suthers, Mr Ingle and Mr Birch for enabling the camp to go ahead. Charles Seamark

J16 A The winter term started and we trained in small boats. We raced at St Neots Small Boats Head, sending the top four scullers to race in singles and a quad. Despite some tricky corners, Jack McWhinnie came second in his single and the quad also came second. The start of the spring term came and we were able to make two eights. This made it very competitive for a seat in the A boat. The first race was BASHER and we entered two matched eights. As we had only been rowing for a couple of weeks we were only really racing the other two-term schools, Abingdon and Radley. After some good racing in the windy conditions we went away feeling confident for the rest of the season.

We were looking forward to the other races and the end goal, National Schools. Dr Suthers then told us the aims for the season: get everyone to win a regatta, get a medal at National Schools and get the B boat into the final at National Schools. With these goals in mind we worked hard in training with the start of double sessions, with some sessions being stopped because of the flooding which seemed to go on for weeks. This training started to pay off with wins at Norwich Head and Cambridge Head to Head. The big race of the term came with Schoolsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Head of the River. The Colts B boat joined with the seniors to put out a 3rd VIII. The A boat put in a good performance but came away with sixth. The Easter training camp in Sarnen came with two things in mind: revising for GCSEs and getting some good speed for the regatta season. With two sessions a day it was hard work. At the end of the camp we were used to the great conditions at Sarnen, with the flat water. However, the final day had a surprise. The wind had picked up, the water was no longer flat and the coaches made us endure a tough last session with five short pieces side by side with the 1st and 2nd VIIIs. We worked hard and the training paid off: we found our fast boat speed and worked hard in the pieces even when the boat was filling up with water. With the start of the summer term, we raced at BASHER, showing our speed by getting into the top 12 boats overall. We also raced at Bedford Regatta and Nottingham Regatta. Then the main regatta of the year, National Schools, came; our boat was going well and we were confident. We did the time trial and qualified in first place and then won our semi-final. We knew we could get a medal if we had a good row. Although we were put under pressure in the first half, we battled back through the field,

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passing Bedford Modern School and King’s College School Wimbledon into second place with 300 metres to go. We then worked hard to push for the last 250 metres and, finally, managed to push past St George’s to get the gold medal. Crew: Barnett Z., Beal S., Cave G., Cowen N., Hunt J., McWhinnie J., Sheridan J., Stephenson D. and Williamson M. David Stephenson

J16 B True victory does not come from winning; it comes from how well you can pick yourself back up to try again. Sweat and suffer here today and be a champion tomorrow and finally SEIZE YOUR GLORY. The J16 B crew were not blessed with massive ergos or outstanding technique, but what we lacked in power and technique we made up for with grit, determination and mental strength. This led to us having a very respectable and solid season. Some of our many victories include: Bedford Head, Pangbourne Junior Sculls, Cambridge Spring Head2Head, Peterborough Regatta and making the J16 2nd VIIIs National Schools’ final. Many other achievements and victories could not be included here as, unfortunately, this article carries a word limit. So how were you so successful, I hear you ask? One cox, three coaches, eight oarsmen and around 60 training sessions. Firstly, our cox Zach Whitelaw’s notable achievements include:

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crashing twice in Cambridge Spring Head2Head yet still managing to win; and pulling a mighty 125 metres in his 45s ergo. Now behind every good crew is a great coach: in our case there were three. Mr Gunn, after offering a few pearls of wisdom at the start of each session, magically dematerialised until the next. Mrs Guises’s commitment and presence both at races and at training sessions was much appreciated by everyone and her overly positive analysis of each one of our few defeats was also to be noted. Mr Ingle’s advice was always encouraging, inspiring and entertaining. Although our average ergos were abysmal, there were some ergo slayers lurking in our midst. Most notable was Thomas Trudgill who demolished his 5 km with a groundbreaking time of 20:32. Alex Potts must also be mentioned for ensuring the crew won many pots (ha ha ha). This year’s crab catchers were: James Smith, whose crab not only ruined our winning race against BMS but also ruined half our season; and me. In my case, even after constant reminders from the bows, I failed to ensure my blade was buried. Our greatest loss this year was not in the form of a race, but in the form of a person. At the end of this season we say goodbye to Tommy Hine, whose words of encouragement ensured everyone tried their hardest. Tommy now returns to his own year group after doing our boat a great favour. The year’s highlights include beating Abingdon to win a place in the final of National Schools, witnessing the evolution of Zach Whitelaw’s banter and hearing Hine recite the first ten minutes of Lord of the Rings, elvish included. Crew: Hine T., Jackson H., Johnston A., Moule B., Potts A., Simon I., Smith J., Trudgill T. and Whitelaw Z. Harry Jackson

J15 A The past year for the J15s has been full of high points. These range from winning races to simply achieving personal bests on the ergos which boosted every boy’s determination. The range of improvement shown by all of us in 2,000-metre tests as well as full-blown 15-minute tests is something every rower should be proud of. The improvement has only been made possible by the support of our coaches who helped us with our fitness and technique on and off the water. Even though in some events some boats did not achieve a medal or a cup, every rower can leave this year saying they all raced in a final. Our achievements include: the A boat’s second place at National Schools, the B boat’s win at Bedford Regatta and the C boat’s second place at Eton Dorney, their last regatta. At the start of the year we all struggled to match the standard of rowing required to compete against other high-standard schools. However, with the continued support of the coaches and with the aid of after-school fitness sessions, by the start of the

summer term we all matched our categories. All this hard work started at Radley Rowing Camp, with days full of hard work but also full of fun, blisters and well-earned trips to Waitrose. I’m sure all the J15 rowers this year would agree that it is only appropriate to thank all the coaches for the help given to us this year. I think it is also appropriate to say a special thank you to Mr Talboys for his inspiration and hard work in helping our squad to have one of the most enjoyable experiences we have had so far. Crew: Cazzoli E., Dason-Barber T., Edwards G., Lamb E., Liggins T., Man R., Qu M., Sivills H. and Winder O. George Edwards

J15 C The J15 C crew had a difficult season; while we were perhaps not the fastest of crews we did manage to record improvements throughout the year. In our first race we managed to gain the fastest time of the day for our category, though we later experienced an encounter with a bridge which hindered our chances. Unfortunately, from then our results began to decline: at Schools’ Head we arrived with relatively little preparation, unaware of who would be sitting in the boat due to last-minute drop-outs. After waiting for a long period of time we began to race only to be let down by the weather: as the race progressed it soon became clear that it was the wind and hail we were battling. Despite our best efforts, second from the bottom was as high up the table as we could manage. The second term started in much the same way as the first one finished: our best was simply not enough, though things soon began to improve at quite a pace. At Star Regatta we went into a straight final against a strong Eton boat. Much to our surprise we went into the lead for almost all of our race. Even though we couldn’t quite hold them off all the way we still finished second, a best for the boat. We travelled to our next race fuelled with confidence, hoping to make up for our performance at the first BASHER event. We finished just six seconds behind our own B crew and just a few seconds off the eventual winner of our category. Added to the warm weather, the result made for good spirits on the journey home. With the result of our last race being agonisingly close I feel that, with a little more time we could have gone on to win some races, but overall it was a good season. Crew: Conlon J., Green K., Johnson M., Malindine J., Rahman W., Rainbow T., Sanghera R., Savvides S., Tsao J. and Zwetsloot E. Kraig Green

J14 A The year began with a group of keen rowers going every Wednesday evening to the boathouse and, when the nights closed in, training switched to the ergo machines. The spring term got off to a slow start with the river being flooded on many occasions. Our first race was the Bedford Head at the beginning of March. We came second, only one second behind BMS. Our next race was the schools’ sculling head at Dorney Lake. We were really excited to row on the Olympic course and the Olympic rings were still up at the lake. We did really well, coming seventh out of 52 boats. That was the end of the heads season but, before it finished completely, we were treated to a fun moment in training when our coach, Mr Satchwill, cycled into the river on his bike after going under the railway bridge! In the Easter holidays some of the rowers went to the Radley training camp. It was nice weather for the whole week with lots of sunshine, resulting in some spectacular one-piece burns (Mitchell). There were a lot of blisters, too. After the Easter holidays we lost some of our rowers to cricket. However, we had a spectacular race at BASHER on Dorney Lake. The weather was horrendous with a strong crosswind and big waves. We were racing the Bedford J15 B boat, among others. When the marshal started the race we were at a 45 degree angle to the rest of the boats which gave us a two-length disadvantage. We gradually clawed our way back to second place behind the J15 boat; a result of which we were very proud. Bedford Regatta followed, where we won our first race against Great Marlow but then lost our second against King’s School Chester. Next we travelled north to the National Schools’ Regatta in Nottingham where we came third in our semi-final. Unfortunately, only the top two went through; a fact which was made even more frustrating when we realised that our time beat the first boat in the next qualifier and the second boat in the last qualifier. The next event was Star Regatta where we had great success. Please see the J14B article for details. The Marlow Regatta was a special event for us because a Bedford J14 crew had not competed there for many years. We qualified third, but only finished fifth in the final. Our last race of the year was at Reading Town Regatta. There was torrential rain forecast, but when we got there it was bright sunshine and we were putting on sun cream. Our first race was against Emanuel School and Winchester College which we won quite easily. After a 20-minute break we were racing again. This time we were against Abingdon and Radley. We got off to a reasonable start but Radley were in front. It was between Radley and us for most of the race but, unfortunately, they beat us by a quarter of a length. Coming second overall was a good way to finish our first year.

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being the win at Star Regatta where everyone committed themselves and we beat the opponents by over a length. Thanks must go to Mr Palmer, our coach, and to all the other coaches for their support with the crews. Crew: Ackroyd T., Burgoine H., Charter J., Christian T., Churchill A., Lodge C., Midder D., Shiels E. and Tovey S. Chris Lodge

J14 C

Thanks must go to our parents who came to support us come rain or shine. Special thanks also go to our coaches, Miss Owens and Mr Satchwill. Squad: Churchill A., Donougher H., Finch C., Fordham M., Graham O., Hill F., Mitchell O., O’Keefe C., Ollerhead B., Sheridan C. and Stephens B. Ben Stephens

J14 B The year began with no real boats selected, but training sessions and Wednesday evening rowing soon resolved that, with minor changes each race/session. Most of the early work in the year was done on ergo machines and at indoor training sessions, as the river was too flooded to row on. However, this did end up preparing our crews well for the season ahead. The season kicked off with our first event at Bedford Head at the beginning of March. Our first race early in the morning ended up being a row-over, as Oundle did not turn up. In the next round we raced Marlow; we rowed a stunning race despite a small encounter with a log in front of the start line! Next we went on to race Shiplake, who we beat, facing King’s School Chester in the final; sadly we suffered an unlucky defeat at the final hurdle. The second race of the season was at the Olympic venue of Dorney Lake. This was a first experience at a large open lake for most of the crew and, in our time-trial event, our crew came a respectable 23rd out of 50 crews. The next event was Star Regatta where we entered into two categories: quads and octo. The quads race was straight after our last summer exam and there was a rush down to the river to compete. Sadly, the quads missed out on winning by a bow ball. In the octos we had a bye to the final against Norwich. After getting off to a bad start, when the stroke`s blade hit a tree trunk on the bank and split in half, we powered through to catch up by Town Bridge and stormed passed to win easily. We went to collect our first tankards as a victorious team. So we had a great season, with our greatest achievement

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This year, the J14 C octo exceeded all expectations and firmly established themselves as one of the best 3rd octos in the country. One of our best results came at the Oarsport Junior Sculling Head in March. We finished third equal in class with King’s Chester, behind Hampton and King’s Wimbledon, beating six A octos and eight B octos in the process! The first summer regatta was BASHER, but we could not handle the conditions and performed poorly – an event to forget! The next event was Bedford Regatta, our own home event, and the only regatta to have a dedicated 3rd octo competition. We went straight through to the semi-final where we comfortably beat Radley. In the final we rowed well but could not hold off a strong Hampton crew that had won their class at the Sculling Head, so we finished second. At the National Schools Regatta, our next event, we had a fantastic time trial, beating seven B crews and four other C crews to make the semi-final of the B octo competition. Unfortunately, in the semi someone fell off their seat and we progressed no further. However, we were hungry for victory, and at our next competition, Star Regatta, we beat Bedford Modern’s B octo by three lengths in the semi-final and moved onto the final again, against our own B octo! The result was disappointing as a teammate lost a blade. However, we were second again, and we could almost taste the winners’ medals! And so to BASHER2, the pinnacle of our season! The format was the same as at BASHER in April (a time trial followed by sideby-side racing based on the time trial results) but over 1,000 metres and aimed at more junior crews. We attacked the course with real determination on every leg of the competition and at the end of the day we had won our prize – the fastest 3rd octo on the water! Not only had we beaten all of our direct 3rd boat opposition from Abingdon, St Paul’s, Hampton and Radley, we had also beaten B octos from Shrewsbury, Hampton and Radley! It was a result to be proud of, and our first ever medal at a regatta! Our final regatta, Reading Town, was disappointing when we came second in the semi-final of the B octo event to a revamped Radley B crew. However, all in all, we had a great season of rowing, and a fantastic time in both competition and training with our great coach, Ian Gadsden, to whom a big vote of thanks is due for his enthusiasm and commitment Without his support we couldn’t have won our medal at BASHER2. Squad: Ackroyd T., Ananth A., Bouvier E., Burgoine H., Case E., Christian G., Davies A., Deacon M., Golosov I., Keane M., Midder D., Murphy J., Rogers Z., Shiels E., Thiara P., Tse L. and Wei T. George Christian

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THE FIRST ELEVEN An early cup game against King’s Ely was Bedford’s first challenge; we emerged to find ourselves facing a miniature selection box of Cambridge’s finest. Bedford’s rather larger rugby VIIs players were cracking their knuckles in glee. It wasn’t long before Bedford asserted their physical dominance on the game, with Tom ‘The Machine’ Garratt smashing headlong into a terrified King’s Ely. On one occasion, he mauled their left winger before sprinting up the line on a frightening charge. Their leftback foolishly tackled him, only to be smashed to the ground by the momentum of The Machine, who continued as if nothing had happened. The ball came across to Bob Barfoot, who beat his man and coolly dispatched to make it 1–0 within five minutes. This set the tone for the match, with the physically superior Bedford team running out easy victors, 5–0, with goals from Barfoot (two), Rey Benito, Zach Scorer and an own goal. Next to fall were Oakham: following a two-minute warm-up and a brief speech based around switching on from the start, the Oakham players kicked off. Their midfielder made the mistake of passing it to their centre-back, who was promptly crunched by Scorer. Barfoot pushed through a shocked defence and put Bedford 1–0 up after six seconds. Heads in hands, the Oakham team kicked off again, but sadly performed a much more sensible kick-off routine second time round. The Bedford defence of Rio Rosano, Tom Bradbeer, Benito and Maxim Bayduzhiy broke up play well, ably assisted by a hard-working midfield. Garratt and Charlie Roberts, in particular, did not allow Oakham any time on the ball in dangerous areas, and goalkeeper Tom Caldon remained relatively untroubled. Benito added to his tally by scoring a second headed goal in as many games. Oakham soon went 0–3 down following further poor decision-making among the back line: a centre-back headed the ball across to another centre-back who was in space. Barfoot charged, the centre-back failed to clear, and Barfoot scored. Barfoot scored a fourth following a nice long-ball through-ball combination, and the man of the match dispatched his chance in his customary fashion.

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Spalding were Bedford’s next opponents. Traditionally, this was a game in which Bedford struggled. Yet this year, the 1st XI were psyched and ready. The fouls flew in relentlessly, with both sides to blame. It wasn’t long before the hard-working Barfoot managed to seize his first opportunity, storming beyond a defender before dinking it over the keeper in his regular fashion, bringing his tally to six for the season. Chances were few and far between, but Bedford were coming under severe pressure from a skilful, physical Spalding side: a corner was delivered into the box; a scuffed clearance; a powerful shot from Spalding; a clear handball from Matthew Cloke (see photo, below) no penalty decision. As Spalding went berserk and Bedford looked dumbfounded at a seemingly blind referee, only Caldon and Spalding’s best player, a future professional apparently, remained switched on. Peterborough’s academy player picked up the ball and launched an unstoppable strike from six-yards at Caldon, only to witness in disbelief a flying Caldon propelling the ball round the post for a corner. Garratt later proceeded to score the goal of the

season – Caldon delivered an 80-yard goal kick into the opposition penalty area for Garratt to storm onto, smashing through a defender to nod the ball over the oncoming keeper. Spalding scored a late consolation free-kick, Bedford winning 2–1. Oundle arrived at Kirkman’s pitch as the next opponents. Their manager was clearly a highly astute man as, from the kickoff, Bedford came under severe pressure from the Oundle long ball in windy conditions. Caldon made save after save from Oundle half-chances, but five minutes before half-time, Oundle kicked a trade-mark accelerating long ball forward, which broke to their striker, who hit a wonderful accelerating strike into the top corner of Caldon’s net. The keeper had no chance. Bedford morale was low as they came in 0–1 down at half-time for the first time this season. With the wind behind us in the second half, it wasn’t long before Bedford began to dominate. On one occasion, Caldon launched it forward and the ball broke to Scorer just outside the box; he composed himself and struck a solid strike against the bar. Bedford frustration was rising, with roars of frustration meeting every misplaced pass or miscontrolled ball; but then up stepped Roberts. He expertly broke onto another long ball and drove a powerful low drive to the right of an excellent Oundle keeper. 1–1 at full time. The first St Edward’s match proved to be a monumental clash. Bedford came out in force, dominating the opening exchanges masterfully. Bedford pressure led to a corner. Scorer, clearly inspired by his manager’s wisdom regarding shooting from corners, delivered a delicious ball directly on top of the keeper and watched in delight as his curl and the wind took the ball into the back of the net. 1–0 Bedford. Scorer made it 2–0, this time deceiving everyone by shooting with another cross, which again rifled into the top of the net. Further Bedford pressure led to Barfoot being scythed down in typically nasty fashion – Scorer stepped up to convert the penalty for his first hat-trick of the season. 3–0 at half-time. Confident of victory, the befuddled Coach Hutchinson decided to substitute Barfoot, Bayduzhiy and Bradbeer, arguably Bedford’s three best players on the day. All hell broke loose. Within ten minutes St Edward’s had drawn level. The atmosphere was chaotic, with Bedford heads down and St Edward’s cheering and roaring themselves on. The touchline was joined by the squads of St Edward’s 2nd, 3rd and 4th XIs, further antagonising the situation. Then, in the closing moments, like a ray of light bursting through the clouds, George CochraneDavies latched onto a long ball from Caldon, used his pace to glide past the last man and finished gracefully past the onrushing keeper. Bedford won 4–3.

Next to fall were Radley. The sticky playing surface did not deter Bedford from playing a skilful passing game which never allowed Radley to settle into the match. A 0–0 scoreline at the break was hard to believe but words of encouragement from the captain for the strikers to show more composure reaped early rewards as Cloke scored after a few minutes of the second half. Scorer converted a penalty shortly afterwards and Roberts also found the net which was just reward for an outstanding afternoon’s work in midfield. Luke Dawson rounded off the scoring with a fine strike from a tight angle to make it 4–0 Bedford. Gluttons for punishment, St Edward’s had arranged a second fixture against the mighty conquerors. Pre-match, the manager focused his tactics on the fact that their pitch looked pretty flat so should suit a passing game. The whistle blew, and this tactic was proved immediately wrong, as the ball bounced around unpredictably on a tricky surface. St Edward’s adopted a long-ball tactic, something that was labelled ‘pathetic’ by Scorer, much to the dismay of Mr Hutchinson. However, the Bedford back line were able to deal with the long balls, with Caldon proving as safe a pair of hands as ever. Bedford continued to pass the ball, but were frustrated not to be able to create any clear chances; Roberts delivered a few long-range efforts, all of which were off target. The scrapping continued, until St Edward’s unwisely allowed Caldon to collect the ball. A long goal kick was met by a scooped flick on from Scorer. The ball bounced high behind the defence, Barfoot rushed on with superior pace and met the ball with his head just before the keeper’s fist and bravely put Bedford 1–0 up

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before half-time. The second half was a tense, scrappy affair. When under no pressure whatsoever, the St Edward’s keeper threw the ball straight out of play for no knowable reason. A quick throw-in caught the Teddies out of position, Cloke delivered a deep cross and Barfoot showed his killer instinct again by leaping through a defender twice his size to bullet a header through the keeper and into the top corner. 2–0 Bedford. Our LB Cup quarter-final match against Berkhamsted, whose major sport is football, proved to be the match of the season. Having gone 0–1 down, Cloke showed great awareness to bring it back to 1–1 following a Scorer free kick. Berkhamsted scored a second moments later, but Bedford played some wonderful football and never gave up. Cheered on by a good part of the school with perhaps a minute left, Scorer received the ball at the corner flag. On a trademark mazy dribble, he beat four players before smashing a powerful shot into the hip of a defender to cleverly deflect the ball past the keeper for an equaliser. The crowd went wild, with tears of pride in the eyes of some supporters. Surely we had booked ourselves some extra time. Bedford won a last corner: a beautifully floated delivery that

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Berkhamsted failed to clear. Garratt reacted first, crunching a devastating slide-tackle shot past the despairing keeper to claim the winner with six seconds left on the clock. The scenes of joy and subsequent pitch invasion that followed the final whistle will stay with fans for many years. 3–2 Bedford. Bedford School had never reached the semi-final of the LB Cup before. An excited team travelled away to Rugby. The game started evenly with both teams closing the ball down quickly and effectively, disrupting play and reducing chances to a minimum. Barfoot cut a lonely figure up front at times, with few opportunities to cause the trouble he is known for. It was Rugby who had the better of the chances, with strikes against the post and the bar unlucky not to go in. Bedford were reduced to getting fouled in defensive positions, and didn’t really threaten. Half-time came and Bedford came in knowing they needed to pass the ball better in more advanced positions if they were to get into the game. However, when they went out they were getting fouled relentlessly as the referee waved play on. The game descended into a scrappy affair, with much complaining from both teams. A strong physical presence was needed, and so it was that Barfoot closed down the ball as Rugby failed to clear. He managed to squirm a bobbly shot under the keeper, which was met by Harry David on the far post ... only to be cleared off the line. Their best chance was gone, and it was looking increasingly like any goal would steal the game. And so it was that their speedy forward chased onto a through ball, poking it past Bradbeer to be one-on-one with Caldon, only to be clattered from behind by Bradbeer. As the Rugby players howled in dismay, the referee consulted his linesman before deciding to caution Bradbeer. Bedford had escaped, lucky only to have to defend a free kick with 11 men still on the pitch. 80 minutes passed, and Bedford prepared themselves for extra time, feeling more and more confident as their fitness was showing through. Barfoot won a free kick just on the edge of the box two minutes into extra time. Scorer confidently placed the ball and struck it expertly into the top corner. 1–0 up with ten minutes to go. Bedford only had to hold on. Clearances were hacked away, but still the Rugby pressure came. Every Bedford ball went long and was immediately regained by Rugby, but the minutes were passing. In the last minute of the game, a ball over the top was running out for a corner. Benito tried to shepherd the ball out of

play, only to be dispossessed by two Rugby forwards. A ball was played across the middle and scuffed in the resulting melee. The equaliser was scored, resulting in penalties. The atmosphere was unbearable. There was not one steady heartbeat on the pitch. Scorer struck his first penalty off the inside of the bar, the ball bouncing just over the line. Rugby scored. Barfoot blazed wildly over the bar. Bedford hearts sank as they watched Rugby continue to convert their penalties. 4–4, with Rugby taking their fifth penalty to secure victory. A firm penalty to the keeper’s right was magnificently saved by Caldon! Bedford were still in the game. 7–7, and Harry David placed the ball nervously on the spot. A fine penalty, but the keeper guessed the right way and pulled off a fine save. The final Rugby penalty was an unstoppable low shot to Caldon’s left. And so it was that the 1st XI’s unbeaten season came to an end. Morale was low, but it was truly a remarkable achievement to have come so far. The most successful 1st XI that Bedford School has ever seen should be proud of their accomplishments, ending a truly wonderful season with seven victories, one draw and one defeat on penalties. Squad: Roberts C. (captain), Barfoot B., Bayduzhiy M., Benito R., Bradbeer T., Caldon A., Chand A., Cloke M., Cochrane-Davies G., David H., Dawson L., Garratt T., Govoni M., Kitson J., O’Cleirigh L., Roberts C., Rosano R., Scorer Z. and Sekaran A. M.T. Hutchinson

from a corner and ‘keeper Ivan Savelev’s arm against the upright in the process. A&E confirmed it broken and lay-off for the majority of the season. What followed was a squad rotation policy involving three men between the sticks: Sandor Pakozdi produced a fine display up at Oakham, in spite of a freezing hailstorm on an afternoon when the sky turned black that could not prevent us winning 3–2, with blinding pace from wingers George Cochrane-Davies and Rory McCracken. Thus endeth our winning run: defeats by Oundle and St Edward’s stalled us but I stuck with Daniel Viscusi in goal, who was not at fault for the goals we conceded in those two games and the team pulled off a good win against Radley. A coach

THE SECOND ELEVEN Vice-captain Ryan Swallow assured me he would write a season report so thank you to him for the following words: —— —— —— —— —— (he produced nothing!) My view as coach was that we had a good season, bookended by a belter of a win at Kings Ely (5–1), with goals from Julian Kitson (a scorcher from near the halfway line), Patryk Gawlinski, Aaron McNally (neither played another game!), Connor O’Brien (goalmouth scramble) and Peter Ramsbotham, and another great victory over the OBs to round things off at the end of the season. In our first game, Ely took the lead, bundling the ball over

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shouldn’t change a winning team … but I did, so we lost (again!) to St Edward’s – question to the master in charge: what was the rationale behind a return fixture, again?! – and, gluttons for punishment, we let a 1–0 halfway lead at home slip against Rugby. The stats read ‘wins three; draws zero; losses four’ but I should remind readers that the OB fixture also counts. My thanks to Hutch for deploying the art of long ball this season, despite hogging the majority of the technically-blessed players, and before him to Chris Bury for getting me into the football in the first place. Cheers Grim also for Valencia. Squad: O’Brien C. (captain), Assim S., Brittle C., CochraneDavies G., Forberg M., Gawlinski P., Govoni M., Hart D., Kitson J., Loewenthal J., Logan C., Maier L., McCracken R., McNally A., Merai A., Pakozdi S., Ramsbotham P., Rosano R., Savelev I., Sekeran A., Swallow R., Tarbox W. and Viscusi D. L.S.E. Gearing

THE THIRD ELEVEN The 3rd XI began the season brightly and, a sign of things to come, dominated King’s Ely from the kick-off in their opening fixture. Two up at half-time, that scoreline could comfortably have been doubled and the second half continued much the same, Bedford eventually running out 3–0 winners with goals from Harry Allen, Constantine Hafner and Paulo Sarro. A steady stream of commuters looked on, impressed, from the nearby station platform. Sam Assim, an everpresent up to the last game at Oundle, captained the side from centre-half and a dominant back four restricted the home attack to

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few clear-cut goal-scoring opportunities, Sandor Pakozdi dealing comfortably with the little that came his way. In a solid team performance James Herriott excelled in midfield. An all-action, boxto-box midfielder who simply never stopped running yet who also had the composure and skill to deliver pin-point crosses and shoot powerfully at goal whenever the opportunity presented itself, Herriott finished the season in the 2nd XI and is expected to continue his meteoric rise in 2015. Next came another away trip and a tie between teams representing England’s sleepiest and smallest counties, respectively. Veterans of the circuit know Oakham to have one of the more exposed playing surfaces and sure enough there was no hiding place when the heavens opened, lacerating players, officials and supporters with hailstorms of the type seldom seen outside of Saskatchewan. My heart went out to the referee in particular, who somehow managed to maintain his composure despite enjoying no follicle protection whatsoever. Bedford were more comfortable in the conditions and, with Ryan Callanan in his element and channelling Norman Hunter to his heart’s content, Bedford again ran out 3–0 winners. The 4th XI had won their opening games 8–0 and 10–2, so competition for places was intense as Bedford welcomed Oundle for their first home game of the season. Callum Logan made his debut and grabbed a brace, the second a wonderfully instinctive and impetuous shot from distance that flew into the net like an Ibrahimovic screamer, and Max Forberg put in a heroic left-back display, full of commitment and running and displaying a positional awareness that would serve the team well for the remainder of the season. Forberg really was a joy to watch and with Callanan snapping into challenges and launching attacks on the other flank, the 3rds enjoyed surely the best fullback pairing across the school. Aaron McNally also came into the team for this fixture and made a decisive impact in the second half, scoring one and setting up another while leading the Oundle defence a merry dance with an array of skills and tricks. More comfortable was a 9–1 victory in the following match against a St Edward’s side evidently short of a few players; they tried to pass the ball in midfield but were ultimately overrun by a determined Bedford XI, and there was no let-up in the goalscoring from Logan and McNally. Stylish playmaker Sarro chipped in with a lovely lofted finish, a contender for goal of the season. Next up were the always-difficult Radley; this was a tough

game against a good passing side and it took all of Assim’s leadership and a determined display from Tim Matthews and new defensive partner Jacob King to keep a clean sheet. Radley hit the woodwork several times, driven on by a stereo-wielding support base bolstered by the presence of some slightly bemused exchange students, and were unlucky to go in one goal down at half-time. Bedford played in a more composed fashion thereafter to win 2–0. Logan scored both, the second a header following a pin-point cross from debut substitute Alex Benzie. Fellow new addition Will Tarbox put in a man-of-the-match performance in a 2–0 win at St Edward’s the following week, the opposition back to full strength and proving a much sterner test on home ground. The decisive goal came from Benzie who, finding himself in half a yard of space, turned sharply and curled a beautiful strike into the top corner to seal the win. Another familiar opponent lined up against Bedford in their final home game of the season. Rugby were well-drilled and, as usual, physical in the challenge, although not as much as Bedford’s goalkeeper Pakozdi, who knocked the opposition No 9 over with a rugged challenge Gyula Grosics would have been proud of, conceding a rare goal from the resultant penalty. Still, this sort of game is what these boys live for; with King magisterial in the air and Matthews once again an inspiration as the last line of defence, Rugby were unlikely to score a second. The most decisive contribution, though, came from Rufus Ollerhead. With assorted housemasters watching on, speed merchant Ollerhead made the right channel his own and created chance after chance, scoring one himself to send the crowd wild with excitement and complete a stunning run of seven straight victories, the best record in the school up to that point following the 1st XI’s draw in the same round of fixtures. Alas, the hoped-for 100 per cent record proved just out of

reach as those old foes, Oundle, inflicted a 0–1 defeat in the final match. As the teams ran out onto Oundle’s 1st XI pitch, dubbed ‘Wembley’ by the locals and overseen on this occasion by a family of swooping red kites, a gale blowing down the firm pitch presented both teams with difficult conditions. The loss of excellent captain Assim to a training injury was a further blow, resulting in a change to the formation, and a breakdown in communication early on presented the Oundle No 9 with a shot at goal from close range. Goalkeeper for the day Ivan Savelev made a brave save but the wind caught the ball and it squirmed just inside the post. The boys came out all guns blazing in the second half, passing Oundle off their splendid playing surface, but could never quite create enough clear chances. Logan had a brilliant header spectacularly saved and from then on it was apparent this wouldn’t be Bedford’s day. In a strange way the defence were the stars of the show, allowing the side to push forward at every opportunity; Matthews was man of the match for another totally committed performance and Savelev showed great courage. Oundle’s loss at Bedford earlier in the term was their only loss of the season and in the return fixture they turned the tables on a very good 3rd XI who can nevertheless be proud of a hugely successful season. The player of the season, as voted for by his peers, was Callanan, edging out Assim and Herriott in second and third place, respectively. A natural footballer and expert full-back, Callanan was tenacious and committed throughout. The inaugural ‘Clubman’ trophy for the most man of the match awards went to Tim Matthews, a rugged defender of the old school whose opponents always knew they had been in a game. Aside from those mentioned above we were also grateful to Allen, who scored several goals and was a constant menace with his driving runs from out wide, the energetic and versatile Henry

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Walsh, the composed Leo Maier, wide man Jack Puddicombe, tidy midfielder Aaron Merai and, last but not least, the Latin flair of Benjamin ‘Rio Ferdinand’ Mazin. Many of these players will grace the 1st and 2nd XIs next season; they were a pleasure to work with and Mr August and I wish them well. Squad: Assim A. (captain), Allen H., Benzie A., Callanan R., Forberg M., Hafner C., Herriott J., King J., Logan C., Maier L., Matthews T., Mazin B., McNally A., Merai A., Ollerhead R., Pakozdi R., Puddicombe J., Sarro P., Savelev I., Tarbox H. and Walsh H. M.W. Graham

THE FOURTH ELEVEN Following a year of much promise, the 2013–14 4th XI season began under a blue fenland sky at King’s Ely. The fixture,

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cancelled 12 months earlier due to snow, was the first glimpse of the squad’s potential. It ended in an 8–0 scoreline in favour of the visitors, with James Phillips, as man of the match, dictating play from the centre of the field. With last season’s record of one victory already equalled, Oakham provided the opportunity to scale new heights. In the midst of such anticipation, Bedford brought a pleasing control and purpose to their play which had been absent in the opening minutes against Ely. Phillips and Chris Falter dominated the centre of the park with muscle and guile, while the rapier thrusts of Alex Monaghan, debuting on the right flank, and Jack Puddicombe on the left, were soundly supported by stand-in keeper Gian Zinngrebe and the central defensive partnership of Max Forberg and Jacob King. It wasn’t long before Bedford were 4–1 to the good against their hosts before Oakham found refuge from Bedford’s attacking deluge in a more literal downpour of wind-whipped hail. Teams streamed from the pitch for temporary sanctuary in the pavilion only for the restart to bring further Oakham misery. Goals arrived in a fresh flurry, ably aided by Oakham’s unfortunate substitute keeper. Final score: Bedford 10–2 Oakham. A record-breaking season was well under way. With Bedford’s own pitches a quagmire, Oundle became an away fixture. Phillips, taking on the captaincy in place of Callum Logan (recently demoted to the 3rds and later to the 2nds), won the toss and opted for the advantages of both the strong wind and a sloping pitch. The early minutes, however, were spent largely in the Bedford half, defending against a big, strong

Oundle strike force who – with even a modicum of ability in front of goal – should have taken the lead. Bedford’s pace and composure soon told. The 3–0 half-time scoreline was repeated in the second period for a fine 6–0 reverse of the previous season’s 2–5 defeat. Subsequent weeks saw back-to-back fixtures against a talented St Edward’s outfit. A narrow home win (2–1), courtesy of Julian Fong’s sixth and seventh goals of the season, was soon followed by the return leg on a beautiful spring day in Oxfordshire. The sun was shining, the birds chirruping and the trees were in blossom; an idyllic setting from which the fourths’ victorious season could soar yet higher. Sadly, an uncharacteristically lacklustre performance resulted in last season’s inevitable and this season’s unthinkable – a defeat, 0–2. A tough match against Rugby followed with a creditable return to form; a 5–1 victory restoring pride in the 4th team jersey. Just two matches remained; a windswept 3–3 draw, away again against Oundle – another game of 3–0 in each half but, sadly, not both in Bedford’s favour. Then there was the final game of the season against the hockey 4th XI. Having lost the first half (of hockey) 0–5, the 30 minutes of football demanded a high scoring rate. Disaster seemed to have fallen when the hockey boys scored a shock goal to level at 1–1 with only about

20 minutes remaining. Regrouping and laying siege to the opponent’s penalty area, the next few minutes saw four unanswered goals to leave just one more required to level the match with plenty of time on the clock. Stout-hearted defending from the hockey team led to a nail-biting climax and, to the great credit of the hockey 4th XI, to the team missing out on one final reason to celebrate. Nonetheless, a fantastic season to look back on. Congratulations to the whole squad. Squad: Logan C. and Phillips J. (captains), Arkarslueng P., Benzie A., Charlton O., DiFilippo D., Eames H., Evans R., Fahmy J., Falter C., Fong J., Forberg M., Gee H., King J., Monaghan A., Nakum M., Puddicombe J., Savelev I. and Zinngrebe G. S.P. Everitt

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COLTS A This season will probably be remembered as one of the best the school football club has ever seen, not least because we went the duration unbeaten – one step further than last season. Despite, as almost always, being hampered by poor weather and numerous cancellations, the Colts A team finished with a record of five wins and one draw, scoring 15 goals in the process. We kicked off the season with a trip to Oundle, who beat us 6–5 in a thrilling match last season. This year, however, we controlled the game for large spells and won 2–1 thanks to goals from Domenik Kharzaliya and Fuga Iwama. The following match saw us on the road again as we went to St Edward’s and provided a convincing display, winning 6–0. Goals from Jake Duxbury (two), Iwama, and a Kharzaliya hat-trick did the damage. However, it must also be noted that John Holroyd made a stunning save to keep a clean sheet against what was a good attack. Our first home game of the season, hosting Radley, saw another good performance. A goal from Duxbury and Alex Seum’s terrific top-corner finish from outside the box was enough to seal victory. Despite Radley scoring in the second half to set up a grandstand finish, we were able to hold out for a third consecutive win, thanks in no small part to some great saves from Chris Bracewell on debut. Our next match, arguably one of our weaker performances of the season, produced one of the best comebacks of the season. Trailing 0–2 to St Edward’s, having had far more possession and territory, we were on the

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brink of losing not only our 100 per cent win record but also our unbeaten streak. However, a halfway-line goal from Alex Williams just before half-time gave us a chance. We took this chance and goals from Iwama, Kharzaliya and Duxbury marked an unbelievable turnaround to win the match 4–2, in what was a remarkable display of character from the team. Buoyant from the high of our last game, we travelled to Rugby, where a frustrating game saw us draw 0–0 and left us to rue missed chances. However, it could have been worse were it not for a spectacular last-minute save from Bracewell to ensure that we remained unbeaten. Our final game of the season was a rematch of the season opener against Oundle, who were armed with four of their players who played for the school’s 1st XI. Despite this, we were not worried and Williams opened the scoring and we took a slender 1–0 lead into the break. From the restart our defence was dissected by a fabulous Oundle move, and it took a world-class save from Holroyd to deny their striker at point-blank range and preserve our lead. Soon after, Duxbury scored a brace to give us a 3–0 lead and put daylight between us and Oundle. Further goals from Iwama and Seum gave the scoreline a resounding look, as we won 5–0 against an extremely strong team: a fitting way to conclude the season. On behalf of the team, I would like to thank our captain, Friedrich Zoellner, on his excellent leadership of the team this season. I would also like to thank Mr Finch and Mr Grimshaw; our success can definitely be attributed to the hard hours of coaching and fitness spent at Gordon Field on Tuesday and

Thursday afternoons. It will be a shame next season to break-up such a good team. However, I have full confidence that a good number of our players will challenge for regular places in the 1st XI next season. Squad: Zoellner F. (captain), Bloxham C., Bracewell C., Duxbury J., Georgiou A., Holroyd J., Iwama F., Kharzaliya D., Lui C., O’Reilly C., Smith M., Seum A. and Williams A. Jake Duxbury

COLTS B After that all was a blurred confusion of mist and jagged furze branches, and a chaos of dark islands swirled through by tawny tides of bracken and bilberry; of lying rigid among the daggersharp furze-roots with a suffocating reek of fox in their throats and the horror of the hunted in their racing hearts, while death with many heron-tufted war-spears stalked them through the dark maze. The Eagle of the Ninth – Rosemary Sutcliff Or that is how it felt at the time. The spring term is torrid; I never seem to have more than the haziest of memories when I look back upon it from the vantage point that hindsight gives me. I can only fling myself down, pick the furze thorns out of my skin and squint at the figures moving in some confusion away off in the middle distance. The ridges that break between where I lie panting and the scene of past action make judging things difficult. What really went on back there? Down among the bracken and the squashed bilberries it is hard to say, but the relief at the pursuit being over tends to flood any reminiscence with a glow that was not apparent at the time. I certainly remember from here the trinity in midfield; Captain Tune, leading our merry band to a martial air from fife and drum, was our mainstay; we rallied behind him on so many occasions while he led the charge that one would have thought he would have crumpled with the burden of the expectations that he stirred in us. He didn’t; he carried the weight as though it were gossamer, skipping through each game with the grace and gaucherie of a young goat. Wilf Hamilton also possessed the silky steely skills of the modern footballer; the grace of Nureyev

welded to the brute power of Tyson (Mike, not Fury). Finally, Jonathan Konstantinidis completed the trio of toughs; uncompromising, offering the artistry of the knife thrower, dealing deadly potential with elegance. With these three at the heart of things nobody could, in truth, match us. We would have had an unbeaten season but for the injury to the Colts A keeper snatching Chris Bracewell away, which meant that Klemens Marsoner, playing his first game ever between the football sticks, did let in a couple against Radley. We never quite recovered enough to pull ourselves back into the game even though we dominated the park. The master at Radley thought me a churlish so-and-so, being so bitter for so long at our loss, but I felt that Fate had filleted us on the butcher’s slab after such wonderful work during the other games. All those other games were victories, but I cannot talk of wins without talking of the little god of the forward line, Kamram Ahmed. He twisted the opposition inside out, upside down and back to front until one at times had to turn away in order not to glory too much in the pain of others. Again and again he snuffed out the opposition with a deft touch here, an expert flick there; he made it look so effortless because he worked so hard and was all commitment. I was greedy for his contribution; he played every minute of every game all season. Not that that should take away from Harry Cope, who partnered Ahmed at the sharp end; he was hard work for many opposition defences and he scored both in the final game against Oundle, which completed the double over them for the season. Cope reminded me at times of a burly centre-forward of old; I’d mention him in the same breath as the revered Nat Lofthouse, but he might not appreciate the comparison and as I never saw the noble Nat play I am probably talking twaddle anyway. Alan Shearer? Peter Crouch? A combination of the best bits of both of them – or is that too much a Frankenstein’s monster?

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Yet when one looks down the team sheet one sees wonderful performers right across the team. The centre-back pairing of Chris Junge and Ben Anstis was absolutely immense. Mr Finch cast envious looks in their direction at times but I know that such is A.D.F.’s gentlemanly code of honour that he would not ask for the pair of them for the Colts A. And he didn’t. They were the foundations of everything good we did defensively; how wonderful it is to have a back line that is not going to melt at the first sign of opposition heat and that actually leaps to meet every challenge. We shouldn’t, though, forget the other fullbacks, Calthorpe and Staddon; they could only rise and rise again when playing alongside the centre-back legends. Others also served and stood and watched; Peter Whalley, Nikolaus Schulze-Oechtering, Nick Stalley, Oliver Meniru, Charlie Clarke, Michael Stokey. I offer them all my gratitude and anyone else who featured and who hasn’t been credited; you mattered an awful lot in the moment. All credit too to A.D.F.; he is, of course, the gentleman’s gentleman. May next year bring more wins and more chances to quote Rosemary Sutcliff in the match report. Squad: Tune D. (captain), Ahmed K., Anstis B., Bracewell C., Calthorpe M., Clarke C., Cope H., Hamilton W., Konstantinidis J., Junge C., Marsoner K., Meniru O., Schulze-Oechtering N., Staddon J., Stalley N., Stokey M. and Walley P. A.W. Grimshaw

U15 A After a ‘practice game’ at King’s Ely which didn’t really go to plan (it being our first actual kick of a ball for the season due to

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the rain), our first proper game came against Oundle. It was a bit of a stalemate, until Oundle had a shot from the edge of the area which was going off target only for one of our defenders to slice his clearance into his own net! However, that kick-started Bedford’s performance into an immediate reply. Ken Ekweremadu whipped in a fantastic cross which was controlled superbly by Tim Hammond who placed his shot under the keeper to equalise. The second goal came with a touch of luck; Hammond tried a lobbed through-ball from the halfway line, but it was over-hit and ended up bouncing over the on-rushing keeper. The second half was much tighter defensively and the score finished 2–1 – a magnificent rearguard action. After the match, their coach told Mr Bury that ‘Oundle had the more talented players, but your boys were better coached’: he was more than happy with that! Then we played one of our easier games of the season against Radley. Radley’s defence was tight for the first 15 minutes until Bedford broke the deadlock. Ekweremadu made a divine turn before tucking the ball into the corner, beyond the keeper. The goals came in quick succession as Hammond scored a brace and James Oliver added one as well. In the second half, Georgy Kharzaliya added to the humiliation with a sweet finish into the top corner. Mr Bury, a tactical genius, brought on Ed Paradise who rounded the scoring off with two goals. The final score was 7–0. Our next game came against Rugby. The first goal came from an Iniesta-type pass from me to the feet of Hammond who calmly slotted the ball into the top corner. The second goal came from a corner from which Oliver headed in to make it 2–0. The third came from a lofted through-ball to Kharzaliya who used his

pace to win the ball and put it beyond the keeper. The fourth came late on in the first half, when a defence-splitting ball by me went straight to Oliver’s feet, and then he used the outside of his boot to bend it past the keeper. Rugby scored a header from a free kick in the second half before Ekweremadu extended the lead with a beautiful curling shot into the top corner. Rugby then scored a late consolation goal and the game finished 5–2. Our last game of the season was a reverse fixture against Oundle. Determined to get revenge from their previous loss to Bedford School, Oundle started the game well. However, it was Bedford who had the first obvious chance of the game when Oliver squared the ball to Hammond, who couldn’t find the net. Oundle then scored from a 35-yard cross that accidentally went goal-bound. Bedford were pressing harder and harder until an Oliver header got Bedford level. With tensions rising the game was getting a bit heated with some heavy challenges coming in, but it ended in a draw. Unfortunately, Bedford couldn’t end the season with a win, but it was a fantastic season nonetheless. Squad: Hill L. (captain), Aslanoba N., Barnes J., Chapman J., Conlon J., Ekweremadu K., Forsythe W., Hammond T., Kharzaliya G., Malindine J., Oliver J., Paradise E., Seward G. and Storey H. Luis Hill

U15 B The four horsemen of the school football apocalypse have been out in force this season: bad weather, injuries, no fixed goalkeeper and Oundle School. A combination of all four led to

some patchy results, but the effort and enthusiasm put in weekin-week-out by the junior colts B team, or the JCBs, was faultless. The first weekend of the spring term saw the JCBs travel to King’s Ely after two indoor training sessions at the Bedford Athletics Stadium due to the biblical floods that were going on outside. After observations of five-a-side games, Toby Nevett was made captain on the basis that he could make a noise, and he ran the team effectively from the heart of defence. Ely were too strong, however, and scored twice in quick succession. Just before half-time, Samee Mohammed fell and ended up with a dislocated knee. The game was abandoned, and Mohammed was out for most of the season. When we returned to school on Monday, our goalkeeper, Sam Barden, revealed he had damaged his wrist. This was not the greatest start, but there were plenty of positives: Nevett, David Lewes and Chizu Chukwu were strong in defence, whilst Jack Ferrari and Simon Cheung made excellent defensive and attacking central midfielders respectively. The team was built around this central core of players for the match against Oakham, and was bolstered with the additions of Conrad Webber and Will Smith from the remove form, and fourth formers James Moffatt and Gianluca Testa. These players formed the crux of our attack, with Webber and Testa on the right and left wings, respectively, and Moffatt and Smith working together up front. Testa, in particular, was a creative tour de force throughout the season and he and Moffatt never stopped running. The JCBs took an early lead with Moffatt breaking free from a good Oakham defence to score a delightful finish. The heavens opened, and the game was temporarily postponed due

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to wind, hail, rain, snow, thunder and lightning. When the worst had passed over, we returned to the second half. It was an even affair with Bob Song (goalkeeper number two of the season) pulling off some fantastic saves, whilst Moffatt and Smith tried to extend the lead. Oakham pulled one back, and a draw was a fair result. The next fixture was away at Oundle. The JCBs played much better and scored three (Smith, Cheung and Alex Purdy), but Oundle scored five – a theme they would continue later on in the season. Cheung’s goal, a free-kick from outside the area, has become the stuff of JCB legend. The game marked the last time Bob Song played in goal, so the hunt was on for goalkeeper number three. Thankfully, fourth former Takeshi Ikura joined the squad with rumours of his ability being passed on to us by the Sanderson’s boys. Radley presented our next challenge and gave Ikura a chance to make the goalkeeping position his own. Song transferred to left back and performed well. Smith and Moffatt gave us a comfortable 2-0 cushion, but the determined Radley team levelled with two unstoppable goals. The JCBs were not to be defeated and our desire to keep on attacking was superb. In the last minute, a Radley player handballed in the area and the referee awarded Bedford a penalty. Cheung coolly slotted the ball into the right-hand corner of the net and the final whistle was blown. It was our first victory of the season, and was testament to the spirit of the team. From Radley to Rugby, and with the Sanderson’s house trip, we were without Ikura in goal and Smith up front, and Nevett was out injured for the rest of the season. We were delighted to see Mohammed, back from injury, returning to the left wing, and Adison Cheng joined the squad in goal. Goals from Moffatt and

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Webber in the last five minutes sealed a strong victory. Sadly, we could not add to our winning streak with our last game of the season – the return fixture versus Oundle. They were stronger in every department and recorded a 1–5 victory. Smith did equalise at one point with a well-placed volley, and it was pleasing to see Alisher Tatayev and Kirill Fomin get involved as substitutes, highlighting their improvement throughout the season. All in all, it was a productive season. The boys enjoyed their football and worked well together. There were significant improvements from all boys, and some of the remove form players will be challenging for places in the Colts A team next year. Nevett and Ferrari, our captains throughout the year, have shown exceptional leadership in our matches. Simon Cheung, Webber and Smith have all demonstrated their attacking prowess, whilst Chukwu and Lewes played in every game at the heart of defence. Purdy, Elliot Whitaker and Daniel Hawkins challenged for places throughout the season, and Hawkins visibly grew in confidence with each match. The fourth formers, Barden, Fomin, Ikura and Tatayev, will form a major part of the junior colts teams next year, and Moffatt and Testa will hopefully continue their exciting attacking play. Thanks to all the boys for their wonderful efforts throughout the season – the JCBs really put the work into training and fostered a good team ethic in each and every match. Thanks also to Dan and the coaches for running some fantastic training sessions, and to Messrs Bury and Sheldon for their company. Squad: Ferrari J. and Nevett T. (captains), Barden S., Cheng A., Cheung S., Chukwu C., Fomin K., Hawkins D., Ikura T., Lewes D., Moffatt J., Mohammed S., Parfitt H., Purdy A., Smith W., Song B., Tatayev A., Testa G., Webber C. and Whitaker E. M.W. Bolton

P S O

Sixth Form 1st Crescent 2nd Ashburnham 3rd Bromham 4th St Cuthbert’s 5th Paulo Pontine 6th St Peter’s

80.5 points 63.5 points 62 points 61.5 points 54.5 points 54 points

Fifths 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th

Bromham St Peter’s St Cuthbert’s Crescent Ashburnham Paulo Pontine

80 points 76.5 points 63 points 58 points 52 points 46.5 points

Remove 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th

St Peter’s Paulo Pontine St Cuthbert’s Crescent Ashburnham Bromham

81 points 65 points 63 points 58.5 points 56 points 49.5 points

Fourths 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th

Ashburnham St Cuthbert’s St Peter’s Bromham Paulo Pontine Crescent

76.5 points 70 points 64.5 points 62 points 55.5 points 46.5 points

Overall 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th

St Peter’s St Cuthbert’s Bromham Ashburnham Crescent Paulo Pontine

276 points 257.5 points 253.5 points 248 points 243.5 points 221.5 points

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OTHER MINOR SPORTS

ATHLETICS The athletics season didn’t start with bright sunshine and it had a familiar false start as the Oakham Relays were cancelled, due to rain, for a second consecutive year. However, this gave our boys a chance to familiarise themselves with all their events as we continued to train at the fantastic Bedford International Athletics Stadium. The first event was for a team of four remove form multievent athletes. We were in a strong position to select four great athletes in Will Kerr, Joe Rogers, Adam Kilby-Smith and Duncan Keyworth. The boys were hoping to impress in a series of five events, including the high jump, 80 m hurdles, discus, long jump and, finally, the 1,500 m. Impress they did, as there were some excellent individual performances. Thanks to Mrs Mainstone’s sporting heritage, the boys benefited from some expert coaching in the high jump. The boys all approached a difficult event with confidence and they are grateful for the help given prior to the event by Mrs Harris (Mrs Mainstone’s mother) despite the awful weather. Kerr and Rogers’s discus was predictably strong and Keyworth provided excitement in a very strong and competitive final event in the 1,500 m where he was placed second, finding great strength at the end of a long day. Keyworth looked to be enjoying punishing some of his competitors in the final 200 m! Perhaps most pleasing was the rapport that the team had with the other athletes and the ability of the boys to balance relaxation and camaraderie with focus and competitiveness at the right moments. The boys’ focus on ensuring that they scored consistently in every event (hence maximising the team score) paid off as they placed second out of 14 school teams. Their individual results were as follows: Kerr, placed 2/54; Rogers, placed 4/54; Kilby-Smith, placed 9/54; and Keyworth, placed 14/54. Individually, Kerr’s score of 2,021 points made a big impact, as did Rogers’s 2,004 points. Impressively, all four boys

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placed in the top 15, which boded well for the district championships. A larger team of remove and fifth form students headed to the District Championships to try to highlight their talents to the county selectors. All the usual suspects from the remove form were on show and the very talented Teepee Princewill was supposed to be having his first outing for Bedford School in the 100 m and triple jump. Sadly, he broke his big toe the day before and was unable to compete, but was given a bye to the next round based on his previous performances elsewhere. A hugely successful day meant that a total of nine boys were asked to go to the County Championships at Stockwood Park, Luton, to compete for their place on the Bedfordshire and Luton team that would go to the Nationals at the start of the summer. Not only was it great to have so many boys invited this year, but it was even better to see them all finish their events ‘on the podium’: • Joe Rogers – first in hammer; • Georgy Kharzaliya – first in 400 m hurdles; • Tunde Adewale – first in long jump; • Conrad Webber – second in 1,500 m; • Will Kerr – second in both discus and hammer; • Domenik Kharzaliya – second in shot put; • Duncan Keyworth – second in 1,500 m steeplechase; • George Seward – second in javelin; and • Cory Bloxham – third in 200 m. As the rest of the school ended the year and disappeared around the globe on holiday, three boys travelled to Birmingham to the Nationals to compete against the very best athletes in the UK in their specialist events and placed well: Princewill finished second by jumping a fantastic 13.26 m in the triple jump; Adewale came eighth in the long jump with 6.34 m; and Rogers, despite being niggled with injury, still threw the hammer 51.63 m to finish ninth.

Throughout the season proper, we saw several school records broken: • Joe Rogers – intermediate hammer – 55.40 m, beating Martin Bayfield’s record of 37.98 m in 1983 (a 46 per cent improvement). • Duncan Keyworth – intermediate 1,500 m steeplechase – 5 m 06 s, beating J. Miller’s 5 m 09 s of 2003. • George Seward – junior javelin – 44.83 m, beating S.R.M. Norton’s 37.40 m of 1993 (a 20 per cent improvement). The current academic year started with sports day, and the whole school headed to the stadium for the normal fierce rivalry that comes with house competitions. With more boys competing then in previous years, housemasters and senior boys worked hard to rally boys. Staff running field events relentlessly encouraged and recorded score after score. With half of the Mathematics department turning the cogs in the results room, they concluded that St Peter’s were the overall winners – full results can be found on page 151. However, perhaps the most pleasing result of the day was seeing Jake Barraclough (Redburn) run a powerful 1,500 m race and take a new school record. Given his recent issues with fitness and training, it was joyous to see him come back and enjoy controlling a race with such confidence and grace, and doing so in front of the whole school community: • Jake Barraclough – senior 1,500 m – 4 m 16 s, beating D.P. Stephens’s 4 m 24 s of 1982. Sports day concludes the athletics year and we can now change our track spikes for rugby boots and welcome the cold, damp weather. G. Waite

CANOEING Mr Campbell changed the standard of canoeing and kayaking at our school significantly. For the first time since his retirement last year, it was our duty to keep our long and successful reputation going. Revd Atkins and Brian Stambridge took over from Mr Campbell and all the canoeists from the previous year had to keep up ‘the spirit of Mr Campbell’. Of course, canoeing is just a minor sport and, therefore, it is supposed to be a fun activity, but hard work had to be done to make Mr Campbell proud and secure wins at various events over the year. The year started with a big increase of seven new members to our club; most of them were very keen on taking part in some of the events and others just joined to get to know a new and demanding sport. At first it was hard to manage

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with 12 members since we don’t have many boats for beginners. However, it didn’t prove to be a problem as some new members managed very well with some of the more wobbly boats. The first race in our calendar was the National Schools’ Canoeing and Kayaking Championship at Reading Marsports. It was a long time ago that our school last competed at this event. It took a lot of management as our coach, Revd Atkins, had to do the Sunday service. So in the end we were able to arrange that Brian Stambridge would take us all the way to Reading. Sadly, only one crew competed at the race, the C2 crew of Kevin Wong and Leo Dziwisch. We entered all three disciplines, expecting that there would be a split between C2 and K2 boats, but no! So in the end we got fifth in the 200 m sprint, seventh in the 500 m sprint, and twelfth in the 20 km marathon. Moving on from this event, problems arose. The Waterside Series and the DW approached, but Wong had little time to train. He therefore decide to drop out, leaving an empty seat which had to be filled. After one week, Teddy Ng decided to take this empty seat and complete those races with Dziwisch. Little time was left for Ng and Dziwisch to get up to a decent standard for the fast approaching Waterside A, the first of a series of four races. To get the most out of this little time, Mr Campbell agreed to occasionally train with them, as he was preparing with OB Jerry Rodgers for the upcoming races anyway. It was a big relief for us when Waterside A was cancelled due to flooding. So now we had two extra weeks to train for Waterside B, which would be held on the Waterside A course. The weather on the day of Waterside B was lovely, completely different to the weather we had had the previous year. We had two Bedford School crews who entered the race: the OB crew

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of Campbell and Rodgers and the crew of Ng and Dziwisch. The old boys put in a great performance, finishing nine minutes before Ng and Dziwisch, with a time of 2.26.42 hours. Ng and Dziwisch raced for the first time together and also in one of the most unstable boats that we have available, finishing with a good time of 2.35.20 hours. However, the result was disappointing: we came second in the junior C2 challenge, two minutes behind a Lord Wandsworth College crew. Waterside C was the exact opposite for both crews. The OB crew capsized early in the race and finished with a good time of 4.40.18 hours. Ng and Dziwisch finished the 23-mile-long course in a good time of 4.25.34 hours, coming first in the junior C2 challenge, and tenth out of all the Canadian Double crews. Both crews couldn’t wait until the next Waterside, which was to decide whether the boys could beat their former coach and also win the Waterside Series Junior C2 Trophy (John Baggs Trophy). The weather on the day of Waterside D was absolutely boiling. The OB crew had an excellent race, finishing sixth overall with a time of 6.46.25 hours. The boys’ crew managed to capsize twice, which was refreshing but slowed them down. So they finished half an hour behind the OB crew with a time of 7.19.09 hours. However, this was still fast enough to win the John Baggs Trophy, with a total time of 14.20.25 hours. Hilary Campbell thought that her husband would stop taking part in the Devizes to Westminster race (which is known as the ‘the canoeists’ Everest’) after his retirement; but she was wrong. He took part in one of the most challenging classes, the Canadian Single class. The other boat from Bedford School that entered was the crew of Ng and Dziwisch, who entered the race with the target of getting the Junior C2 trophy back that we had won the

previous year. However, what they didn’t allow for was for there to be two other excellent junior C2 crews (Lord Wandsworth College and Abottsholme School), who they had to compete against. Both crews covered the course in four day-long stages over Easter, starting in Devizes on Good Friday and finishing under Westminster Bridge on Easter Monday. The weather was very good for the entire race: it was hot but there was still some nice cooling wind, which made paddling more comfortable. The crew of Ng and Dziwisch kept up a strong and even pace, being chased closely by a very young crew of two fifth formers from Abottsholme. Once again you could feel the great camaraderie between competing crews; we were worried when they capsized halfway through day two and they were equally concerned when we capsized halfway through day three. In the end we had more luck and more power to finish the 125-mileslong race soonest, passing the finish line just one hour before the fifth form crew, with a time of 23.24.27 hours and winning the Viking Challenge Trophy. Mr Campbell finished with an absolutely incredible time of 25.32.51 hours in his C1, coming fifth in the C1 competition, just 12 minutes behind fourth place. Great thanks must go to all of our supporters this year. A fantastic team of parents, friends and OBs braved the elements to feed and encourage the paddlers: Jerry Rodgers, Jack McLeod, Oli McLeod, Rob McLeod, Charlie Campbell-Gray, Ed Campbell-Gray, Alexander Dziwisch and Mr and Mrs Dziwisch, who once more joined the race from portage to portage. Special thanks go once again to Hilary Campbell, who organised everything for the crews and made it possible for us to compete. Additional thanks go this year to all those who donated to the charity that the crews were raising money for: we raised a total of £1,500 for Headway Bedford. Leo Dziwisch

FIVES With only one surviving team player from last year’s 1st IV, this has been a challenging year for school fives as we have looked to rebuild. The first fixture, against BMS in September, got things off to a promising start with a comfortable win by 74 points. Yuri Lelikov and Karan Gupta played well as a pair in their doubles games while the new pairing of Ashil Shah and Jay-Jay Saint improved as the match progressed. In our next fixture, against Oundle, their team consisted of only six players, two seniors and four juniors, which meant that the game was played in a slightly different format to normal with teams consisting of six players rather than the normal four. To match the visitors, Bedford fielded the two senior 1st IV players, Gupta and Lelikov, and four juniors which meant that Riki Msindo, Jack Hutchings, Logan Jones and Ewan Cox from year 10 got a game. Gupta and Lelikov dominated both their singles and double games but the juniors found the going much tougher. Their singles games were hotly contested with Oundle coming out slightly ahead, but in the doubles the opposition’s greater experience really told and points proved difficult to come by for Bedford. The pairing of Hutchings and Jones, in particular, grew in confidence over the course of the afternoon. All in all it was a good learning experience for the junior players who played with real enthusiasm. Oundle won overall by 53 points. Always a demanding challenge against adult players, the Jesters game is an opportunity to test the progress and capabilities of the 1st IV each year. Shah was the only Bedford player to secure a win in the singles by the sizeable margin of seven points and at this point Bedford were holding their own with the score 27–29 points in the Jesters’ favour. The greater experience of the Jesters became apparent in the doubles and, despite some competitive games, Bedford failed to win any of

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the eight games played. A tough afternoon but one that provided good experience for the team, the Jesters winning by 59 points. Keen to make amends and get back into winning ways, the 1st IV were hopeful as we travelled away to Rugby. Superior firepower from the Rugby team made life very difficult for Bedford in the singles and an early substantial lead was established. In the doubles, Bedford battled hard for every point but could only secure a single win in the eight doubles games played. To the boys’ credit they could easily have surrendered in the face of stronger opposition but they played with courage and conviction right down to the last point. A creditable and brave performance; Rugby won by 77 points. We were delighted to make the short trip to Cambridge University to play on their new courts for the first time. Always a tough game anyway, the fact that the courts played very differently and at a slower pace to those at Bedford was an added challenge, but the 1st IV adapted well and secured wins in three out of the four singles matches to establish a reasonable early lead. However, the doubles matches proved to be much more challenging. The 1st pair (Gupta and Shah) won three out of four matches whilst the 2nd pair won only one out of four. All the games were very competitive which ensured Bedford secured a memorable and rare victory against Cambridge by 21 points. Whitgift made the journey from Croydon with some of the team that gave Bedford a severe beating last year. With home advantage the hope was to avenge that defeat. For the senior 1st IV it soon became apparent that a tough afternoon was to ensue. Only Shah was really able to push his opponent and Whitgift established an early big lead with victories in all the singles games. In the doubles the story was the same with Bedford only securing a single victory in the games played. Whitgift won overall by 54 points. The juniors (Hutchings, Cox, Msindo and Bhavik Talsania) made a better game of it. Debutant Talsania managed to secure the only singles victory in convincing style. Despite being evenly matched in the doubles and Bedford winning three games, the more experienced Whitgift team eventually won comfortably by 39 points, but it was a good effort by the junior team. After this bruising encounter the 1st IV (this time consisting of Gupta, Lelikov, Saint and Manu Ratnayake) did well to assert their authority against a visiting BMS team. Victories in all the singles established an early lead and with convincing victories in all the doubles as well they inflicted a heavy defeat on BMS, with a winning margin of 98 points. The junior IV (Hutchings, Logan, Cox and Msindo), however, were up against a team that has represented BMS at senior level. Despite their greater experience Bedford did well to keep the early BMS lead within touching distance after the singles games. In the doubles BMS proved too strong and with only a single victory for Bedford they won comfortably by 66 points. Derby Moor, coached by the President of the Rugby Fives Association, Bob Dolby, are always a difficult opposition and are a tough concluding fixture to the autumn term. The 1st IV (Gupta, Lelikov, Shah and Ratnayake) struggled in the singles but did well to keep the lead within striking distance. Shah and Gupta played brilliantly in their first doubles game against the Derby Moor first pair, only narrowly

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losing 15–16 in an exciting game, but that defeat set the tone for the remaining games. Derby Moor proved too strong, winning by a margin of 95 points. The juniors (Hutchings, Jones, Cox and debutant Angus Watson) had a similarly difficult afternoon. Only Cox secured a well-deserved singles victory. Hutchings and Jones did well in the doubles but struggled to match the fire power of the opposition, Derby Moor winning all of the doubles games played. Derby Moor won by 102 points. The spring term got underway with our annual game against the adult team from the RFA. The 1st IV (Gupta, Lelikov, Saint and debutant Michael Holroyd) played well and held their own to narrow the RFA win to only 41 points. Having lost to Rugby away in the autumn term, Bedford were keen to make home advantage count. However, the 1st IV (Gupta, Lelikov, Dom Brett and Holroyd) struggled in the singles with only one victory to Brett which meant Rugby established a healthy early lead. In the doubles the going was equally tough and only Gupta and Holroyd could manage a win with losses in the other seven games played. Rugby outplayed Bedford to win by 49 points. The juniors (Hutchings, Jones, Dylan Cox and Msindo) had a similarly difficult afternoon. Only Hutchings secured victory in the singles and, in the doubles, despite some exciting games, Rugby secured victory in all eight games to win by the convincing margin of 68 points. The fixture against St Paul’s is always approached with some trepidation with St Paul’s being universally seen as the preeminent fives school. In the singles, the seniors (Gupta, Lelikov, Brett and Holroyd) could only muster a single victory to Gupta who fought valiantly to win a gripping game 12–11. The doubles proved equally challenging and, despite some competitive matches, Bedford failed to win any of their games. However, to keep the St Paul’s victory to 79 points was a respectable result. The juniors (Hutchings, Cox, Jones and Nihat Aslanoba) held their own and, after the singles and a win to Aslanoba, the lead for St Paul’s was only two points, setting things up for an exciting afternoon. Competitive and close games in the doubles and three wins kept Bedford in sight of a possible victory but the superior firepower of St Paul’s ensured they won by 21 points. It was an excellent effort by the juniors. With the intention of making the East Midlands’ Fives Tournament an annual event in the spring term, Bedford School and BMS were delighted to welcome back Oundle, Rugby and Derby Moor to participate in this competition, which is a real challenge for both senior and junior Bedford players. The juniors (Hutchings, Jones, Cox and Talsania) found the main doubles competition difficult but fared better in the plate where they made solid progress before being knocked out. In the singles they performed much better with Hutchings, Jones and Talsania all reaching the quarter-finals. All managed to raise their game for the occasion with Jones, in particular, performing well. The seniors (Gupta, Shah, Lelikov and Brett) struggled in the singles with only Gupta making any significant progress. In the doubles the going was equally difficult but some excellent play by both Bedford pairs in the plate competition meant that both pairs made the final. In a tight game the first pair of Gupta and Shah pipped their teammates to win. This was an excellent effort which meant that Gupta secured the plate for the second year in succession.

As part of a tour of the south-east, Malvern College visited in early March with a junior side, their greater experience brushing our 1st IV aside to win by 95 points. It was a disappointing conclusion to the season for the junior team who have made great progress this year and provide real hope for the future of fives at Bedford. The OB fixture is always a fitting conclusion to the season for the senior 1st IV. We were delighted this year that the OBs could provide eight players so that the 1st and 2nd IVs could play. We were less thrilled that the OB numbers were boosted by the return of most of last year’s impressive school side – Chris Davey, Ali Jones and Dan Sorensen. With regular star OB players Endersby, Kemp, Wilkinson, Jones and Saunders there was a degree of inevitability about who the winners would be, although the margin of 118 points for the 1st IV and 141 points for the 2nd IV was a little difficult to bear! The statistics for this year do not make for good reading with many more defeats than victories. It says much for the boys that they have remained stoic and optimistic throughout what has been a tough year. My thanks to Gupta for his energy and enthusiasm as captain. The contribution of Lelikov, or ‘Lelikov the Destroyer’ as he came to be known, must also be acknowledged: he certainly talked a good game and kept us amused! It was only right, therefore, that both Karan and Yuri received colours for their contribution to fives in the past few years. My thanks again to our coach, David Mew, who continues to inspire, and Mrs Mainstone who has done much to implement a more rigorous coaching programme on Tuesday afternoons. The regular senior and junior house competitions continue to be an exciting part of the fives calendar. In the autumn term a St Peter’s team consisting mostly of regular school team players (Gupta, Holroyd and Saint) won comfortably but Ashburnham and Paulo were joint runners-up which suggests just how

competitive this event can be. In the spring term the junior competition was comprehensively won by Crescent with the pairing of regular junior team school players Hutchings and Jones. Ashburnham were runners-up with Paulo coming third. The school singles competition this year enjoyed a healthy number of entrants but work still has to be done to entice more of the top sportsmen to play. There were few upsets in both the senior and junior competitions, with the top school players coming out as winners: Karan Gupta won the Dawes Senior Cup and Bhavik Talsania won the Mellor Junior Cup. Well done to them. Senior squad: Gupta K. (captain), Brett D., Holroyd M., Lelikov Y., Ratnayake M., Saint J. and Shah A. Junior squad: Hutchings J. (captain), Aslanoba N., Cox D., Cox E., Jones L., Msindo R., Talsania B. and Watson A. M.C. Croker

GOLF Having qualified for the ISGA National Finals in Scotland automatically (as a result of our second-place finish in last year’s event), the ISGA team of Josh Taylor, Adam Winter and Ben Dunlop performed admirably but left disappointed from this year’s event. Day one was played on the Burnside Golf Course in dry but breezy conditions. Josh Taylor’s respectable three over par 71, accompanied by Ben Dunlop’s slightly disappointing 79, put the team in 11th place overnight. The boys demonstrated great determination on day two, however, playing on the prestigious and incredibly challenging Carnoustie Golf Course. Taylor shot an impressive 73, three over par, and was this time backed by Adam Winter, who shot an 81. With these scores the team fought their way back to fifth place overall. After two impressive rounds of golf, Taylor secured sixth place in the individual prize. Although the boys had hoped to challenge more

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for the main prizes, the experience was a brilliant one and I’m sure it will stand them in good stead for the future. In the HMC Foursomes the team won the Central Regional Final for the third consecutive year, with a win over Solihull. The six-man team also defeated Felsted, Newhall and Oakham en route to the regional final. At the HMC National Final, held at Luffenham Heath Golf Course, outstanding performances from Conrad Staroscik, Robert Holden, Taylor and Dunlop saw the HMC team defeat Wellington College in the first group match. In the second group match, against Millfield, Staroscik and Holden again played superb golf to defeat a pair much stronger than them on paper. This threw the match wide open but, unfortunately, Dunlop and Taylor couldn’t quite repeat the heroics of the previous match and were eventually defeated on the second play-off hole. Despite also defeating Glasgow Academy in the final group match, the team narrowly lost out on a place in the final. It was, however, a superb end to the season and once again demonstrated how strong golf is at Bedford School. Squad members in the HMC rounds have included Guy Johnson, Charlie Ballard, Staroscik, Constantine Hafner, Dunlop, Winter and Taylor. As well as the competitive fixtures, the school has hosted a number of friendly fixtures this year, including Uppingham, Radley, Felsted, Warwick, Haileybury, Harrow and Millfield. We also took part in an excellent Bedford School Golf Foundation Day and the annual OB fixture. Sadly, this year sees both Dunlop and Winter move on. Dunlop has been with the team throughout his two years in the sixth form and developed from a handicap of four down to one. He has been an integral part of both the ISGA and HMC teams, playing in three national finals. He recently represented the school on this year’s SWIFT tour of America and has played some superb golf in his year as captain. Winter, progressing from a handicap of ten to four in his three years with the programme, is a great example of how the school can help to develop young players. Winter has

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shown great enthusiasm and determination to cement his place in the HMC team, and was this year rewarded with a place in the three-man ISGA team at Carnoustie. The team and I wish the boys all the best in the future and thank them both for their excellent contribution to Bedford School’s golf. H.C. Taylor

RIFLE CLUB The club started the 2013–14 academic year with a bang (no pun intended), launching straight into the British Schools’ Smallbore Rifle Association (BSSRA) autumn leagues. This competition was shot over five rounds of five-bull targets and tends be one of the trickiest of the season as the club has yet to shake out the cobwebs from the long break. With little time to fettle the team or practice before shooting the competition cards, the team can perhaps be forgiven for the slightly disappointing fourth place. That said, Mr Lumley-Wood saved face somewhat by winning the BSSRA staff championship and the Roth Trophy. Next the team faced the Country Life competition, shot in one day in late March and comprising four stages – group, rapid, snap and landscape targets. The team of Mathias Butler, Tommy Hine, Manu Ratnayake, Angus Watson, Alan Wong, Ed Sharrock, Alastair Ackroyd, Joe Ayling Tommy Hine shooting at 200 yards on Short and Ben Howard had, Siberia at Bisley

by this time, had a term to re-establish themselves and had consequently found some of their old form. A strong performance in the group, rapid and snap stages was, unfortunately, compromised somewhat by a poorer performance in the landscape, leaving the team 14th in a field of 26 schools. The end of March also saw the fiercely contested OB match and here the Rifle Club has always been very much a victim of its own past success, with the boys going up against OBs who are former and current international-level shooters. One has only to turn to the OB section of past Ousel magazines to see the calibre of the opposition the school faced. This year, however, we were more successful in dealing with the challenge of freeing boys from their myriad of other commitments on a very busy Saturday and, consequently, the team facing the OBs was the most experienced we have fielded to date. The experience of the school team meant that they delivered a strong performance in the group, rapid and snap stages, staying in touch with the OBs, adrift by only one point. The boys held their nerve going into the five-bull stage and managed to build a five-point lead, ultimately achieving the first win for the school over the OBs for more than 40 years. Major Rupert Riley (78–89) was the top shot from the OBs, as befits a Queen’s Prize Silver Badge holder, while Ben Howard was the best of the boys with both achieving an impressive score of 80 ex 90. Buoyed by their success the boys approached their next competition, the BSSRA spring leagues, with some confidence. The format remained the same from the autumn leagues and the team of Mathias Butler, Tommy Hine, Manu Ratnayake, Angus Watson and Alan Wong justified their confidence by shooting consistently well and finishing second, only six points ex 500 off the winning school, Reed’s. It is an indication of the strength of the team that Ratnayake, Butler and Hine were ranked third, fifth and sixth, respectively, of all the shooters from the schools in the leagues. The year finished with a visit of the Rifle Club to Bisley, the

first opportunity for the boys to shoot fullbore target rifle. They appeared to enjoy shooting ‘proper’ rifles at ‘proper’ ranges and are looking forward to further visits in the coming year. P.M. Lumley-Wood

SQUASH CLUB Led by the ever-willing Kushal Kansagra as captain of the 1st squad, and with the aid of the squash intellects, Mr Rees and Mr Montgomery, Bedford School squash defied all expectation this campaign. There were notable improvements from younger squad players George Allen and Arjun Vainganker, with George’s improvement being so great that he only lost to one player (namely Kansagra) during house squash. This mix of old and young talents led to an incredibly successful season as most matches were won and the 1st V marched into the last 32 of the National Schools’ Tournament, a feat which had not been achieved for many years. The 2nd V also had a very successful season, owing a great deal to the undying enthusiasm of Mrs Smith and Miss Swallow. They, too, boast a strong winning record, and there was a great deal of young talent on show for the first time; the emergence of Peter Jamieson and Tom Frost as 2nd V regulars was particularly impressive. Furthermore, the camaraderie of the players off the squash court was stronger than ever. The two club dinners were particular highlights. Kansagra’s end-of-year speech and witty rundown of the members of the squash club was particularly amusing and a testament to the close-knit group that the Squash C lub has become. His speech provided an entertaining end to another highly successful and enjoyable season of Bedford School squash. Results for the season are as follows: 1st V: won 14, lost six. 2nd V: won seven, lost five. Colts V: won two, lost one. Fabian Cooper

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SWIMMING AND WATER POLO The season started with house water polo at the very beginning of September. There was some excellent matches and the final was particularly close, but Ashburnham were the eventual winners. Paulo Pontine came first in the house swimming event and there was some very fast times and new school records in this event. It was a busy year for swimming. The boys qualified for the final of the ESSA and did well. They also took part in the Bath and Otter Cup which this year was hosted at the Olympic pool in Stratford. Oliver Maltby and Nick Staley swam particularly well. With regard to water polo, it has been terrific to have both an U18 and an U16 team this year. The U18 team had a very tough group and did not manage to qualify for the final of the National Schoolsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Water Polo Competition. However, the U16 team did qualify for the plate and came third which was a great achievement. Particular thanks go to Thomas Stewart who has been a fantastic captain for the side and has supported the team very well. E. C-Rubio

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TENNIS This year, the Tennis Club travelled to Portugal over the Easter holidays for a five-day training camp at the exclusive Val do Lobo tennis resort on the Algarve. The opportunity was taken up by many of our junior players and they benefited from five hours of intensive tennis coaching from top-class tennis coaches every day in comfortable surroundings and warm weather – what a way to start the season! Their energy and enthusiasm was evident as games sessions began at the start of the summer term. After last season’s successes at the Independent Schools’ Tournament and the AEGON competition, everyone was hopeful that we may see similar successes this year. This was true for Jack Dalton, Peter Jamieson, Joss Cleary and Alisher Tatayev who make up the U15 AEGON squad; they cruised through the first round of the competition, beating BMS, Stratton, Sharnbrook and Cedars, meaning they are through to the knockout stages of the competition in September. With the pressures of IB exams and A-levels, the same was not true of the senior teams, who ended with a score sheet which was, unfortunately, not reflective of their ability. Despite setbacks in matches, training sessions remained focused and energetic throughout the term with individuals all advancing and showing excellent promise for the years to come. Thankfully, fewer matches than usual were affected by rain and we were able to field two teams in all year groups. The biggest success came from the U16 A team, beating Oundle 7–2. All teams also had strong wins against Kimbolton and Stowe.

A particular highlight of the season is the mixed doubles game with Bedford Girls’ School and this year was no exception. All courts were used at Gordon Fields as the U14s and U15s were paired up to play in a social yet very competitive competition, spurred on by the chance to win a medal at the end. Encouraged by the promise of sunshine and a glass of Pimms, it was brilliant to see great support from the parents of students at both schools. At the end of the season we entered the usual tournaments at Oxford for the juniors and at Eton College for the seniors and juniors. Again these proved to be excellent competitions, giving the boys the chance to play against the best tennis players in the country. It was great to see Peter Jamieson finishing fifth at Oxford and Josh Cleary finishing eighth; both also progressed well to the third round at Eton. The senior boys also played extremely well in the competition, reaching the semi-finals where they met a very strong Hampton side, who went on to play in the finals. We say farewell this year to a very talented group of senior tennis players and at the same time we look forward to the future with such a strong set of junior tennis players coming through the school. Tennis is only able to run so efficiently because of the help from staff and external coaches. We especially thank Mr Davies for his help with tennis over the years and wish him all the best as he leaves Bedford School. With the appointment of Mr Herring as the new master in charge of tennis, the future of Bedford School tennis is bright. T.W. Rees

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CHARITIES Members of the Bedford School community raised £31,272 during this academic year; the second highest figure since records began. I was delighted by the number of people who got involved and came up with innovative ways to raise money. What follows is a brief summary of the activities: full details can be found on the school website under General Information – Bedford in the Community – Charities Update. The September mufti day raised money for the Alzheimer’s Society, Breakthrough Breast Cancer, Bedford and District Cerebral Palsy Society, Orchid and the Utange Orphanage Project. Throughout the autumn term, Rio Rosano and Assankhan Amirov ‘sold’ rugby programmes at 1st XV home matches in return for a donation to charity. Thanks go to Mr Burgess for writing all the programmes and Miss Jeffery for printing them. Keech Hospice Care, Canine Partners, Whizz-Kidz and the Juvenile Diabetic Research Fund all received donations. Assan, Rio, Kevin Wong and Leo Dzwisch represented the school in the annual Rotary Club Wheelchair Challenge held at the Bedford International Athletics Stadium. The boys each raced 50 m in wheelchairs in the charity shuttle relay. Despite this being the first time the team had entered the event, they finished a very creditable third place and raised £400 for WhizzKidz and Sport for the Disabled in the process. As well as the Movember campaign (see the General Education article for details), other November fundraising activities included the traditional sale of poppies for Remembrance Day, a recital by Jim Cooper, the St Cecilia’s Day Concert and a Curry and Quiz Night. Dr Palmer and a team of boys won the quiz; I had not foreseen this result and had bought six bottles of wine for prizes! The boys took it upon themselves to give the bottles to Mr Fleming, Mr Waugh and Mr Gearing. John Fahmy, Mikail Awan, James Lamond and Joshua Wellington swam an incredible 110 lengths in just 50 minutes to raise money for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund and Canine Partners in the 2014 Rotary Swimathon, held in the school pool. Christmas activities included me and six sixth-formers accompanying the Keech Hospice Care Santa Sleigh as it

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travelled round Bedford collecting donations. The collections from the day boy and boarders’ carol services were donated to Keech Hospice Care and a team of staff and boys entered the annual Keech Santa Run, with Mr Palmer winning the race with ease. The Eagle Choir donated the proceeds of their Christmas concert to Bedford and District Cerebral Palsy Society. The January mufti day raised money for the Teenage Cancer Trust, Amantani, Bedford and District Handicapped Riders Association and Bedford Foodbank. Sean Davies organised an evening of fine music featuring music staff, current boys and OBs. The event raised £400 for Bedford MENCAP Playscheme and the treasurer, Mike Bonney, finished the evening with a short speech about the charity. Boys continue to volunteer at the summer playscheme. Rupert Oakley and Ilya Gulko organised various events for Fairtrade Fortnight; the highlight was a banana throw on the school field. Rock Night was a sell-out once word got round that all the tickets allocated to Bedford Girls’ School had been sold. We raised £645 for Bedford and District Cerebral Palsy Society and BGS donated their ticket sales to Cancer Research UK. The March mufti day raised money for Whizz-Kidz, the Outward Bound Trust and Headway Bedford. The term ended with the now traditional charity run following house cross-country; £2,432 was split between the Maliyadeva Boy’s Orphanage, Sri Lanka, Addenbrookes Paediatric Oncology Research Fund, Brain Tumour Trust, Breakthrough Breast Cancer, Help For Heroes, Gurka Welfare Trust and Prostate Cancer. In the Easter holidays, Leo Dzwisch and Teddy Ng completed the Devizes to Westminster International Canoe Marathon (see separate article) and raised over £1,500 for Headway Bedford. They won the Junior C2 race in 23 hours, 24 minutes and 27 seconds, a superb time for the gruelling 125 miles. I completed my third London Marathon in 6 hours 54 minutes, raising £2,560 for Whizz-Kidz. Benedikt Nesseler also completed the London Marathon, raising £1,760 for the Outward Bound Trust. The summer term began with an evening of music and drama organised by Alex Horn in aid of Bedford and District

Handicapped Riders’ Association. The cast (Logan Jones, Alex Horn, Daniel Hickey, Matthew Gouldesbrough, Beth Summerfield, Alice Simmons, Francis Simmons and Ellie Shepherd) had rehearsed for months and their talents were incredible. It was a humbling experience to be in the audience and, for me, this was the most memorable event of the year. It raised over £600 for the charity. In the summer holidays, Philip Barnes completed the London to Paris Cycle Ride and the team raised £11,327 for PAPYRUS (see separate article). Henry Wellbelove and James Rawstorne completed the Coast2Coast Cycle Ride in memory of Archie Wellbelove (OB), raising an outstanding £17,104.95 (see

separate article). The June mufti day donations supported these two superb individual efforts. I would like to thank Alex Dorgham and Sergey Gerasimov (joint chairmen) and Rupert Oakley (secretary). They have been an awesome team who have inspired the Bedford School community to raise a phenomenal amount of money for numerous charities. We would also like to thank every single person who has been involved with the fundraising. We are always keen to help local charities by giving up our time to help at events. If you have a contact with a local charity, do please let us know. C.M. Medley

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LONDON TO PARIS CHARITY CYCLE RIDE In December my cousin Emily suggested that my mum and I should join her to raise some money for PAPYRUS by taking up the challenge of the London to Paris bike ride. We agreed, and so it was suddenly clear that we needed to start training. We bought our proper road bikes (with a fairly large price tag) and we immediately noticed the speed difference when compared to our now old mountain bikes. With their skinnier tyres and lighter, more aerodynamic aluminum frame, it had been money well spent. Six months of training came and went quickly: so quickly, in fact, that we were very worried that we were underprepared with our challenge only a few weeks away. For me, training went fairly smoothly. However, it was difficult to find time for regular bike rides during exam leave, and the two weeks I had away on the school Cuba expedition made it tough to maintain fitness as I was without my precious road bike. Day one approached and we made our way to London with some nerves kicking in. We arrived at the hotel and were welcomed by a few of the Discover Adventure staff, who showed us to our rooms and stored our bikes in a safe place. Early on the Thursday morning, we set off for Dover. A gruelling 80 hilly miles was ahead of us. Luckily, however, some of our pre-ride nerves turned into adrenaline for the long day ahead, helping us to the docks. After meeting at the rendezvous point, all 111 of the cyclists got on a quick ferry ride to Calais, where we had a short ride all together to our hotels. With day one complete, all of our pre-ride fears had gone and our spirits were lifted: we were excited for our first ride in the beautiful French countryside. The next day another 80 miles lay ahead of us, and all went to plan in the summer heat. However, getting a mile and a half off course did cost us about half an hour before the much awaited lunch break. Arriving in the town of Arras later than expected, we got a well-earned rest before day three. Starting to feel the exhaustion and aching, the morning of day three came, in which we would be cycling through the picturesque Somme valley. The first refreshment stop at the 20mile point saw us at a First World War memorial and museum. With a bit of time to spare, most of us stayed here for a while longer to have a closer look at this magnificent memorial, with thousands of names carved into the stone walls and hundreds of graves in the well-kept gardens. The day then went on as normal, but without getting lost this time! Spirits were falling, however, as the finish in Paris still felt so far away: our legs were burning and our whole bodies were aching. As we arrived at the hotels in Compiégne, massages had to be given to help us in preparation for the final day. The final (and shortest) day dawned. This time we only had to ride 60 miles and our finish line was the Eiffel Tower! So far our bodies and bikes had just about coped, so our confidence levels were fairly high as we set off for Paris, and luckily our first 40 miles or so went smoothly (although very slowly). With only ten miles to our final rendezvous point, we hit the Parisian rush-hour

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traffic, and instantly our momentum disappeared, but we managed to make it all in one piece to the park where we were greeted by the faster cyclists who had arrived before us. All spirits were high then, as we were just a few miles from the Eiffel Tower. This last stretch was brilliant: all 111 of us cycled together around the Arc du Triumph in the thick congestion, and then cycled along the cobbled road of the Champs Élysées where we could see the tall tower in the distance. We could sense that we had completed our challenge. Minutes later, Team Lizzie had done it! All the blood, sweat and tears was worth it. A few family and friends were there to congratulate us as we crossed the finish line, and the feeling of satisfaction came. We were told that the total money raised at that point was just over £8,000, and it felt amazing: we had effectively each raised over £2,000 for a great cause that is close to our hearts. At the time of writing, this total has increased to over £11,000 and our page is still receiving more donations on a regular basis. Thank you to everyone who has donated and helped us achieve such a magnificent total. Philip Barnes

GENERAL EDUCATION

The General Education Department is responsible for delivering the PSHE and citizenship programme to all the boys in the Upper School as well as engaging them and involving them in topical campaigns which aim to raise awareness of issues beyond the academic curriculum. As well as following the national PSHE guidelines, the past year has seen boys learning about a diverse range of topics, from body image to politics, sex education to cooking and prejudice to codebreaking! We have been lucky enough to have an excellent number of outside speakers, skilled in their fields, to inform and inspire. Boys have also been involved in several school-wide campaigns this year; there is an emphasis on getting involved and learning by doing. In the autumn term, the Movember campaign was run by upper sixth boys, who taught the younger boys about physical and mental health issues that they may face. Boys were also invited to take part in fund-raising activities such as a dodgeball tournament, cycle marathon and auction and we were delighted to raise £10,915 in funds to help research by health charities. In the spring term, we worked with the YMCA and the King’s Arms Project, and boys learned about

the many reasons that people may become homeless and the challenges that they face. A brave group of boys and staff then participated in the ‘Sleepout’ on a cold February night in Bedford. After spending the night in cardboard boxes, they had just a small taste of how hard life must be for the homeless and raised funds for the YMCA in the process. We were also lucky enough to meet representatives of the Whizz Kidz charity who spoke to the lower sixth about their work. Eight boys then volunteered to carry out internships in the summer holidays and found it a valuable and rewarding experience. In the summer term, the Live Below the Line campaign took place. Boys and staff lived on £1 a day for their food for a week, and learned about the 1.2 billion people in the world who do this every day. Once again, it was a huge challenge, but also a thoughtprovoking and humbling experience. We are very grateful to the speakers who have given up their time to contribute to these activities and to all the boys who have taken part with much enthusiasm. I am also grateful to the rest of my team – Mr Palmer, Mr Graham and Miss Swallow – for their invaluable assistance. S.E.S. Spyropoulos

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ICKWELL NATURE RESERVE Introduction It’s been another active year on the reserve with a mix of traditional CCF activities, family camping as well as some new conservation activities and development. For new readers, the reserve is part historic garden, part amenity grassland with adjoining lakes and part conservation grassland and woodland. It is located some 11 miles from the school, which makes quick trips impossible. We are, therefore, predominantly used by members of the school community and other educational users for half- or full-day activities. The reserve was given to the school in the 1950s and, in 1976, under the then head of biology, Peter Churcher, members of the school community began using it. Other members of staff assisted with conservation activities and have fond memories of their visits. In the 21st century, with new demands on the curriculum, we have a different focus, but in some ways we have returned to the days of field biology enjoyed by boys in the 1970s and 1980s. The principle school involvement is by a group of IB boys as part of their conservation programme. They come to work on the site on Wednesday afternoons. This year we have carried out a mixture of tasks reflecting the diversity of the site. Conservation activities One of the first tasks each academic year is to clear the cut grass from our conservation meadow. This area is managed to encourage the seeding of grass and herb species and to prevent domination of scrub succession They will also have cleared some invasive wood

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sedges from some of the ditches to give more delicate plants a chance. A start is then made on collecting tree seed to grow on as replacements for our existing stock of hedge and tree material. We are developing this aspect with a new tree nursery area. All our plantings are grown from native stock produced locally by the Community Tree Trust (CTT) run by OB Colin Carpenter. We have been developing our charcoal production from the coppice woodland by purchasing our own kiln, known as ‘the Pope’ as a result of the white smoke it produces from its chimneys when in use. The boys had a visit from Ed Burnett, our woodland expert, who instructed in charcoal production and ran a demonstration of woodland crafts such as bodging to make chair legs. To help with timber-gathering, we had a visit from a shire horse and handler. The boys were able to try their hand in leading the horse (Fred) as large timber was removed from the conservation woodland and taken up to the timber yard. We are also hoping to develop the field biology aspects of the site. I have been on a

course to learn how to identify grasses, sedges and rushes and am attending another course in the autumn to identify mosses/liverworts and lichens. In this way we can build up our knowledge of what is here to build on earlier surveys of the plant life. We hope to run some taster sessions with boys at school during additional study periods this autumn. Users of Ickwell in 2014 We are pleased that Forest Schools use the site regularly with groups of small children involved in backwoods cooking and denbuilding. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;On Track Education Servicesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; also are regular users with small groups of children in alternative provision who come for conservation and science activities. We are continuing to work with this group and to extend their range of activities.

D of E courses have been another regular feature this year both for Harpur Trust schools and a group of state schools from Cambridge. The local Brownies have been along and hope to come more regularly. In June a group of the Bedford School OBs, with partners, had a picnic lunch and tour of the site, bringing back memories for some. Many questions were asked and on a fine, sunny day we were joined by the Head Master who has been actively supporting our work during his time at the school as chairman of the Bedford School Trust board. Once again I have been pleased to have the support of the warden, Tony Young, and biology staff Miss Swallow and Mr Palmer. C.H. Jones

USING ICKWELL FOR FIELD BIOLOGY

Discovering various kinds of organism

In the spring term a group from the Bedford School Study Centre (BSSC) spent a rewarding afternoon checking parts of the Ickwell water system for quality and biodiversity. We used pH and indicator species catches to guide us in our hypothesis as to which parts looked better than others.

Within the extensive grounds, including a large lake and rivers, we were allowed to collect water samples from different sources.

This feature was written and designed by Lee Siu Fung (Victor) from BSSC

By comparing the pH values of the samples and the presence of different bioindicators, information of water qualities at various sources could be obtained.

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DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S AWARD Over the past year a large number of boys have participated in Duke of Edinburgh at Bedford School, with over 80 boys doing bronze, over 50 doing silver and 15 doing gold. Although the expedition section is the one most boys remember, the other sections (volunteering, skill and physical) also take a huge amount of time and commitment. As award leader I have been impressed with the activities the boys have undertaken for these sections. Boys have learnt new languages, improved their chess game, leant to wakeboard, run local youth groups and helped people within their local community to name just a few activities. J.W. Mainstone

BRONZE DUKE OF EDINBURGH Walking through forests and climbing up hills is the general perception of Duke of Edinburgh. Yet when you add in your friends and the unpredictable British weather you get an amazing adventure through the wildlife around us, which you can enjoy with your friends. Our Duke of Edinburgh trip didn’t start very well. As soon as we left the starting point, we went in the wrong direction and ended up outside a tourist information office. After getting back on track, our morale was high and we were walking at a good pace … until our compass broke in the middle of the forest. From then on we could not easily work out where north was. We arrived at the campsite at four o’clock and we set up the tents incredibly fast. In the evening it began to rain, so we quickly had our food and sat together in one tent talking. The next day, our group was the first to leave and we started the journey up the steep hill. We were incredibly quick on our second day, despite a small argument, and we reached the end point at two o’clock. In the two days we travelled around 30 km, spending approximately half a day walking. It was a very enjoyable experience and it was made better by having friends at your side. Harjeet Sumal My Bronze D of E experience gave me an insight into what levels I can reach later on in the journey to gold. This is a task primarily built upon willpower and teamwork. Many of the skills we learnt, such as cooking with unorthodox equipment, navigating and

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making shelters, are essential for the later levels. However, the bronze-level experience has taught my group and me to accept the challenges presented to us and to work hard to achieve them. It was an exhausting but thoroughly enjoyable experience. William Entwistle

SILVER DUKE OF EDINBURGH As the great Ralph Waldo Emerson once said: ‘Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.’ My Silver Duke of Edinburgh group took this to heart on a number of occasions and with hindsight this is a really bad idea. For Duke of Edinburgh this mind-set leads your group to become demoralised, argumentative and lost. So where did it all begin? ‘Twas a bright sunshiny Monday morning and around 60 of us somehow scrambled into school for a very early 9 am start. Nothing beats a good old Bedford School minibus journey and this was no exception: out-of-tune singing and debates about the World Cup were enjoyed by everyone except the driver, and the stop at the service station saw many Burger King XXL meal deals and, of course, Krispy Kreme doughnuts purchased. After a solid four hours we arrived and, to be perfectly honest, about half of us were ready to quit there and go home. However, we decided that would be pointless so we got ready for the most challenging three days of our lives. We had an unwelcome visitor at our first campsite. It was small, it was annoying and it was there to suck your blood: it was the midge. We sprayed them with various different aerosols to try to exterminate them, but unfortunately James Smith’s Lynx Attract had a rather undesirable effect: within seconds we were swarmed and had to retreat to our tents. 1–0 midges, but we vowed never to lose again. Early the next morning the sun broke through our tents and so we set off. First day banter levels were very respectable and navigation and teamwork was good. We reached our campsite by 2 pm and chilled for a long time. On the second day the best joke of all time was recorded by George Neave when passing the town of Linton (most of the humour is lost through text … you just had to be there): ‘Hey guys, it’s Linton Guise, guys it’s Linton guys’. This was repeated many a time and although this might not appear funny to you, it definitely was hilarious. Not much else happened that day other than we found out from a passing stranger the Suarez had bitten someone. Again. The final day was my birthday and I was relatively gutted that the whole of my group forgot (even after I reminded them multiple times). Morale was at an all-time low so we decided to jog as much as we could, which didn’t really help and left us exhausted. But each group arrived in record time at around 12 noon … so what was the response? Mass celebration? Cake? No we were, in fact, told off for walking quickly (since one of the 20 ‘conditions of the expedition’ is that you have to be out for a certain length of time)! However, all in all we had a smashing time and took away many good life lessons. The hours spent doing volunteering, sport and a skill taught patience and the expedition taught endurance. Although one major disappointment was not having Mr Coggins with us this time round as he is a top bloke! Harry Jackson

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GOLD D OF E PRACTICE EXPEDITION BRECON BEACONS Obviously, after hearing that we would be spending a week of our summer holiday in Wales, with as many teachers as students, we were all totally ecstatic and, with a three-and-a-halfhour journey in a minibus listening to Mrs Mainstone’s copy of Now That’s What I Call Disney! it was looking like it would be a long week. However, after a couple of days of training, playing cards and slowly but surely packing for the expedition, we were ready to go and already we’d had a good time. Our first day proved to be our most challenging, climbing three mountains and ending up depressingly close to where we started in true D of E fashion. After scaling the first mountain, Fany Big, we thought it would be plain sailing from there, but it turned out the other two were even bigger. By mid-afternoon we had climbed Peny Fan, the highest peak in the Brecon Beacons, and we only had one mountain left. We thought it was going pretty well until Shiv Patel’s legs seemed to stop working altogether and we were forced to slowly trundle on at his pace. Despite the disheartening fact that we were being overtaken by SAS trainees who were carrying 50 kg with them, we finally managed to make it to the peak of Cribyn, our final mountain of the day. The next couple of days were substantially nicer and substantially flatter than the first and largely consisted of walking along reservoirs for miles at a pretty relaxing pace. What felt like a lifetime later, we made it to our final day. Running low on food, we found a last surge of energy to push to the end of the expedition a couple of hours early, and even managed a sprint finish to the waiting minibus. It was no surprise that the return bus journey was much quieter. Ed Jones

GOLD DUKE OF EDINBURGH – REPORT 1

Five days. 80+ km. Nine exhausted sixth formers. When the Bedford School minibus rolled into the Lake District, it had to be that time of year again – the Gold D of E expeditions were about to begin. Dropped off in a field that sat next to a lonely country road, a short acclimatisation walk allowed us to realise what every D of E participant thinks on their first day … ‘Wow, my bag’s heavy’. Fortunately, the walk that day was only a short one, with the 3 km lasting only an hour. However, everyone was aware that

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the hard work was to come; the true task would only start the next day. The atmosphere that night was palpable; a crude cocktail of anticipation, excitement and sheer dread. The night air was disturbed by the sounds of frantic packing, arguments over which route to take, and the occasional joke questioning whether it was too late to turn back. In spite of this, when the morning sunlight broke over the surrounding hills, everyone seemed ready to complete ‘the journey’ which had spanned from remove form as inexperienced bronze candidates to now, when we had become a group of upper sixth veterans. As the two groups strode out of their respective starting points, optimism, positivity and hope reigned supreme. It wouldn’t last. No more than 1 km from the start, the Lake District gave us a taste of what was to come. Even the tallest in the group couldn’t help but feel dwarfed by the valley that we had to climb out of. Even after a strategic drinks break, no one particularly felt like moving forward. Indeed, it was only when another D of E group appeared behind us that we decided to forge on – we could complain, we could whine, but there was no chance that we’d be overtaken. So, the true campaign began – our quadriceps straining as much as our resolve as we continued upwards. Seemingly endlessly, the path curved upwards and around the valleys that had been forcefully carved by glaciers, thousands of years prior. Finally reaching the summit, we checked our progress – our first kilometre had taken 10 minutes, the second? An hour. Realising this, we pushed on, speeding through our first and second days without any major issues. By the time we reached the campsite at the end of the second day we were worn out, but still excited to see the other group and compare how our days had gone. After having met up and recalled the events of the previous two days (which had included sliding down a ridge for the others), we set out planning our third, and most difficult, day. Our convergence raised spirits and reminded everyone that in two days’ time, we’d never have to put up a tent again. However, the Peaks decided to ruin the party. While discussing routes over hot chocolate that was 90 per cent boiling water, we realised that a set of mountains stood between our goal and us, the tallest of which – Helvellyn, 950 metres high – was smack bang in front of us. This was added to by the extremely helpful advice of the accompanying staff: ‘You can’t come to the Lake District without going up Helvellyn!’ Easy for them to say, given that they had a minibus and didn’t have to carry 10 kg bags, having just slept in tents. The task ahead of us wasn’t huge … it was massive.

Nevertheless, we forced ourselves to continue. An arduous ascent began with a slight incline, before transforming into a soul-destroying trek in the bitter wind, up a path that amounted to a set of rocks embedded in the mountainside. This wasn’t helped by my colleagues’ methods of entertaining themselves; of all the things you want to hear whilst dragging yourself up a hill, a poorly impersonated Samuel L. Jackson conversing with Sean Connery doesn’t rank highly. That said, we managed to emerge at the top of the peak mostly intact. The only thing that could make us forget the aching feeling in our legs and the piercing pain in our lungs? We’d beaten the other group. However, when they (finally) arrived we had the opportunity for a 360 degree view of the Lake District in all its beauty – and even in our dehydrated, sleep-deprived states, we could appreciate that. Having succeeded in overcoming the hardest part of our adventure, the rest was plain sailing – the occasional 150-metretall ridge meant nothing to us in our quest to finish. We pushed on relentlessly, finishing the third day, and effectively strolling through most of our fourth. As the clock ticked towards 3 pm, we arrived at our destination. For most, it was a small harbour town. For us, it represented salvation. I guarantee, no one has ever been as happy as us to see a car park. We had survived. The taste of success was incomparable – although the traditional post-expedition trip to Burger King came close. Manahara Ratnayake

Upon standing knee-deep in trench-like filth, running low on water and gnawing on your final food ration of the day (at just 9.30 in the morning), it’s only natural to wonder why participants of the scheme continue to endure the biannual pains of the outings. On paper, climbing the third highest peak in Britain after walking 50 kilometres across two days doesn’t appear to be the most enticing offer to join the programme, but everyone who has ever completed an expedition knows of the ineffable joy behind finishing your trek. If you, as my friend gently states, ‘don’t know what [I’m] on about’, I don’t expect you to without being a survivor yourself. This summer’s trip saw us head north to the famed Lake District and, despite the reservations of almost every member of the group, we quickly passed the point of no return, more familiarly known as junction 16 of the M1. After a largely

GOLD DUKE OF EDINBURGH – REPORT 2

On the eve of my sixth and final Duke of Edinburgh expedition, I asked myself the same question that I’ve asked myself time and time again for the past five years – how did I get roped into this?

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successful, and ‘absolutely bloody pointless’ acclimatisation exercise, we were treated to a pub dinner which, in hindsight, was more of a symbolic last supper than a generous donation from our trusty supervisors. Within a few hours of setting off the next morning, patterns became immediately observable in the group, whether it be the often intellectually misguided ramblings of member A, or the frequent assertions of power and strength – simply put as screaming ‘I’m huge’ every 30 seconds – by member B, morale quickly peaked. Sadly, it was all emotionally downhill from there as the figurative and literal mountainous task of the next four days finally began to dawn on us. Despite a lunchtime downpour and the occasional lapse in orientation, we arrived at our campsite relatively unscathed. Day two began as it proceeded to continue with an early morning barrage of hail, annoying locals and aggressive cows. We were greeted at lunch by a jolly local farmer who came armed with an ominous warning of our impending deaths if we carried on our designated path. Unable to use this as an excuse to cut a corner (we did ask a number of times), we eventually completed the day literally in the shadow of Mount Helvelyn, looming over us throughout the night as if it were foreshadowing the day to come. Upon waking to a sunny vista equivalent to that of a painting, conditions couldn’t have been finer to begin our assent. Traversing over faces of land that looked essentially uninhabitable, three kilometres took us approximately 90 minutes to walk. We were behind schedule and with the wrath (perhaps a tad harsh) of Miss

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Bell waiting for us at the summit, the group’s spirit carried us beyond what we thought we were capable of, despite the best intentions of an incredible number of snail-paced locals. The advance to our campsite in the afternoon was sweet with the taste of victory and the knowledge that soon our ordeal would be over. Despite arising in the morning to the knowledge that our final day was shorter than we had first anticipated, and that our return home was imminent, no one in the group could deny that our last few hours on the course were held with an odd numbness which itself turned into a gentle sadness at the end of our day. As the beaming lights of the Bedford School mini-van came into sight, the thought hit home that this was it. There would be no more shared pains, no more uncomfortably humid nights in a tent and, worst of all, no more D of E banter. After two months of reflection, this feeling is what has stayed with me the most. It wasn’t the tediously dry taste of Wayfarer boil-in-the-bag meals, nor was it the hanging of my head after taking a two-hour ‘detour’ that would see our route extended by five miles. Perhaps that sums up my experience of Duke of Edinburgh and this gold expedition to a tee. It’s often the more enduring experiences in life that give us the fondest memories. In our darkest hours, we draw strength from our unity and persistence as a group. Without wishing to exaggerate, it’s impossible to explain why each of the members returned for their sixth and final expedition, and if you can’t understand why they came back, you’ll just have to come and see for yourself. Harry Burden

CCF

ANNUAL GENERAL INSPECTION This year we were fortunate to have Lt-Col John Duckworth, the Deputy Chief of Staff at the Defence Intelligence Security Centre at Chicksands, attending our AGI. This was very appropriate as last year, after many years of being allowed use of the facilities at Chicksands, they became our affiliated regular unit. We held the usual parade in the morning followed by a roundrobin of CCF activities in the afternoon before Lt-Col Duckworth gave out the prizes to the various section winners and leaversâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; medals to the upper sixth. This year we had an Army Air Corps Lynx helicopter which gave flights to the cadets during the afternoon; this was much enjoyed by both cadets and the staff lucky enough to get a flight! The day was rounded off with the annual inspection dinner in the Great Hall. All in all, it was a very successful inspection with the cadets being given the opportunity to show what they can do both on and off the parade ground. RSM Mellor

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ANNUAL CAMP During the second week of the summer holidays cadets from Bedford School CCF went down to Nesscliffe Training Camp. After a long, three-hour drive, we arrived ready to take over the accommodation. After the first night of very little sleep, we were awoken at 5 am. This was so we could arrive down at the long and short ranges for a whole day of shooting. This was a great experience for some of the cadets as this was their first time shooting rifles. Day two is where it got interesting, with our group being allocated to the adventure day. This day was action-packed with activities. First we did kayaking and canoeing. Following that we did mountain-boarding. This was great fun, seeing everyone fall over! The highlight of that day was when we did laser tag against BMS and thrashed them! Another of my favourite parts of that day was going on the rock-climbing wall, where we all tried to race up to the top in the fastest time, providing friendly competition between all of us. On the third day we did a combat skills day, which involved many different exercises. We started the day with the paintball alley â&#x20AC;&#x201C; we had to walk down a narrow muddy path and shoot various targets as we approached them. Following that exercise we went on to the section attack stand where we used our fieldweekend knowledge to perform a great section attack. After the morale boost of the section attack, we marched down to the room clearance stand and then on to the penultimate stand, the vehicle checkpoint. This was a new experience for all of us and provided us with a good laugh after searching the car and then missing the largest object in the car. After a long day, with each

cadet shattered under the belting sun, we had one more activity: the stalk and snipe. This is where we had to use teamwork to sneak around the enemy and complete several tasks without being seen and injured. Given it was the last exercise of the day, everyone managed to push on and preform the task very well. Day four was the field-craft day; this was a great day as it allowed many of the cadets to gain new experiences or practice the skills already learnt, all in time for the field exercise in the coming hours. We did a range of activities such as survival skills, personal camouflage, ambush plans, harbour drills and observation. The observation stand was one of the tasks the group found fun and challenging, with the team having to spot 30 different items up to 150 metres away. This showed how well the team could work together as we managed to spot the hardest item of all. Our final task was the two-day field exercise. After learning many things during the week this is where we put it into practice. Led by myself, we had to clear the enemy from the area, which was no easy task. After doing this for two days each cadet was shattered, but the section was very impressive as they always stayed motivated and ready for the next task. As ever the cadets enjoyed their time on the annual camp. On most of the evenings there was an activity for us to take part in, such as a gun run or a tug-of-war competition. It was impressive to see the whole team putting maximum effort in, even after a long, energy-draining day of activities. It was also great seeing all the years bonding well together and seeing the enthusiasm that came from the weekend. A big thanks to all the staff that helped to organise the trip. James Robinson

CADSAAM SHOOTING COMPETITION On Friday 13th September 2013, cadets of all ages set off for the CADSAAM Shooting Competition. Since Bedford School CCF had not entered the competition before, we went with the main aim of increasing our experience and having a good time. Once we arrived we moved into our accommodation then went to zero our rifles. This involved shooting on a range and altering the sight settings on the rifles accordingly so that the shots can be as accurate as possible.

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The next day the competition began. The first stand was the Montgomery shoot, which involved shooting the L98A2 rifle at various distances from the target, meaning we could practise our stationary shooting with the rifle we were most confident with. We then went to the pool-ball area where we all had the chance to shoot guns we wouldn’t normally get to shoot, such as a GPMG and Minimi machine guns as well as AK47s, SLRs and M4s. Then we moved on to the Earl Roberts shoot, which was the stand requiring fire with movement; here we also used the L98A2 rifle. This allowed us to practise shooting between running, which is even more difficult than stationary shooting as your adrenaline is pumping while you are trying to fire. Visiting the heavy weapons stand gave a relaxing end to the day, where we got to handle various weapons that most of us had never seen before, such as shotguns and RPGs. On Sunday some cadets had the chance to try clay shooting, which was a new experience for most involved. We then had the section attack shoot, which required splitting into two sections and working as a team within our section to carry a dummy casualty and boxes of ammunition, as well as filling our magazines with rounds, pepperpotting and shooting, all within a limited time period. This really tested our abilities, but was also very exhilarating and enjoyable. Lastly, we had the plate shoot, where we did fire with movement, head-to-head against other schools in a knockout competition. We placed joint third in this, giving an exciting and rewarding end to the competition. Overall, the competition was a lot of fun, and gave all the cadets the opportunity to experience new weapon systems, as well as hone their shooting skills. Spending a whole weekend focusing on this one military skill was rewarding, and we look forward to entering the competition again. Katerina Konstantinidi

COMBAT CADET COMPETITION On 28th March 2014, a group of 11 cadets embarked on a trip for the annual Combat Cadet Competition. This is after the previous weekend having been dedicated to practice for the challenges ahead.

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It was an early start on the first day, after a bus journey down the previous night, waking up at 6 am to start the day’s activities. Over the whole day the team partook in numerous exercises to test their military knowledge and skills. The stands included the tactical stands of withdrawal under fire and a planned section attack. However, one of the highlights of that first day had to be the first-aid stand. Participants were given a scenario whereupon three casualties had to be evacuated to a helicopter. The intense atmosphere, mixed with adrenaline, not only made this stand enjoyable, but also gave the team our highest scoring exercise. The day had been challenging overall, but the exercises did not finish there. After filling up on multiple cakes that had been brought along we gathered on the minibus at about 11 pm to prepare for the night navigation. This task included the group running around finding tags in the pitch black with rifles under a timed condition, after which everyone collapsed into their beds anticipating the hard day ahead. On the second came the hardest challenge of all, the 5 km run followed straight after by the obstacle course. Nearing midday in the heat was the time set for our run, and after cutting five minutes off the time of last year’s run, the obstacle course was up next. This was the final task of the whole competition, therefore it made it even harder to complete the 6 ft and 20 ft cargo net, plus multiple other objects. However, after the 8 ft wall to finish, the team had completed the weekend. We had managed to survive the weekend and pull together to work as a team to complete all the challenges. This was truly a great achievement. Harry Lusty, BGS

WELBECK CLC 2014 Last academic year, a team of eight enthusiastic members of the Bedford School/BGS Cadet Force entered the annual Cadet Leadership Challenge hosted by the Welbeck Defence Sixth Form College. We had great fun in this three-day tournament and I’m glad to be able to pass on my account of it to other members of the Bedford School community. Unfortunately, we had been a little disorganised in our preparation. So we had no choice but to enter the competition with what was practically a completely new combination, never having competed together before in anything. In fact, the majority of the team only found out the identity of one of our teammates when she arrived on the scene for departure, having been entered that day by the officers! Such a start would perhaps discourage some, or even break their morale altogether, but not the hard core of the Bedford School/BGS CCF! I am confident that we would still have remained enthusiastic and in good competitive spirits even if we had to walk to Loughborough (where the competition was taking place). Luckily, this didn’t come to pass and, thanks to the inspired driving of Revd Atkins, we arrived more or less in one piece at the Welbeck DSFC. As we arrived at the site, we pressed our noses to the glass of the minibus and stared in awe at the sheer size of the military school, as well as its amazing facilities. Personally, I had never

seen any sort of educational complex such as this: it struck me as being like an entire city or a state within a state. After a brief greeting ceremony with the ‘citizens’ of the DSFC, we were assigned our caretakers for the duration of our stay. These were two very likeable lads who showed us to our lot of land on the rugby pitch for setting up camp, which we occupied quickly, creating a semi-circular collection of tents (later described by one member of the delegation as ‘Bedfordville’). We finished that night by consuming the pizzas that our suddenly beloved officers/teachers had ordered for us. Shortly after, we decided to call it a day to ensure we’d be energetic the next morning and ready to take on whatever challenges they could throw at us. The next morning we were (or at least I was) anything but energetic, but I guess I’m just not used to waking up in a tent amid the morning dew at such an ungodly hour as seven o’clock on what would’ve been the first day of a four-week holiday. Groggy and dressed in cold combats, we made our way to the dining halls to have breakfast. After our meal we were rounded up for a parade, where we were briefly brought up to speed by the head of military training at the college and wished good luck by several high ranking officers. Thus began the various challenges, ranging from a quiz on various things about HRH’s Armed Forces, to climbing up a ‘Jacob’s ladder’, to various command tasks. I’ll only list the most memorable ones for lack of space and, more importantly, because I can’t remember a substantial chunk of them. My personal favourite challenge was the ‘foreign weapons’ stand, which was exactly what it sounds like. There were also less exciting challenges, some of which involved running around and others which involved logic. At the ‘command task’ stand I managed to put a gargantuan splinter in my finger, which I later dug out with a not-so-surgicallyprecise knife; this was not a particularly fond memory. I do, however, have very fond memories of the first-aid station, which turned out in the end to be more of an acted-out lesson than a competitive stand, as we had never learned anything about first aid before. The last thing I have to mention is the so-called disco that the DSCF organised for us, in which none of us made the acquaintance of anyone new. However, we still enjoyed chatting in our own little circle, especially while passing around the green, mirrored women’s aviators that I unexpectedly found in my daysack, which were too small for any of us but they looked just amazing. Overall, we came 11th out of 18 and, though it wasn’t quite in accordance with our ambitious goals, we weren’t disappointed. I think I’d be lying if I said we were particularly professional about most of the activities, but everyone took the event seriously and made a valiant effort, all while having fun, which is really what matters in a relaxed and friendly cadet force such as ours. Finally, I’d just like to extend my personal thanks to all my teammates for this exceedingly enjoyable weekend. And, on behalf of all the team, I’d like to thank Miss Garrett and Revd Atkins for taking us on this trip. Iván Simon

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