In the summer of 2024, as has happens every year, Bromsgrove pupils received their public examination results. At GCSE, the average outcome was an impressive grade 7 (an A grade); in the Sixth Form, 60% of all grades were A* or A grade or the equivalent, and the IB average score of 38.9 meant that Bromsgrove School was the fourth highest performing IB school in the UK. Equipped with these excellent results, Bromsgrove leavers, the newest Old Bromsgrovians, left School for some of the best universities in the UK and across the world: two thirds to Russell Group Universities in the UK and over a quarter to World Top 50 universities. Two Bromsgrovians joined the Marines, one the Army and three took up highly competitive apprenticeships. We are very proud of them all, wish them every
success and happiness and hope they will always stay in touch with what will always be their School.
However, very pleasing though these results are, they only tell part of the story. They don’t measure everything else that pupils achieved during their time at School, in the classroom and outside; neither do they reflect the progress they made, the challenges they overcame and the talents they uncovered; they don’t reflect the positive tone that pupils set and the valuable part they played in the School community and they don’t reflect the people that they have become. Although schools should measure outcomes, there is also a risk that those qualities which are harder to measure, can be thought to matter less.
I hope Bromsgrovians will always be identifiable by the way they treat others, by a willingness to get the job done, to work with others, their openness to change and ability to go on learning, as well as an appreciation of what really matters in life. I hope Bromsgrovians leave School with a clear set of values so that they make a positive mark on the world as well as a set of top grades.
Finally, we always enjoy welcoming OBs back to Bromsgrove. It might be that you are able to attend an OB event, or you would prefer to visit the School on a working day. Please stay in touch, enjoy the pages that follow and we hope they rekindle fond memories of your time at School.
MICHAEL PUNT HEADMASTER
‘New’ Old Bromsgrovians - Welcoming the Class of 2024 to our Bromsgrovian Community
Picture This…
As we celebrate Issue 11 of Bromsgrovians Connected, we are reminded of the enduring ties that bind us, not just as alumni of Bromsgrove School, but as a community that stretches far beyond the confines of school days.
Each year, this publication serves as a bridge between past and present, offering us a glimpse into the lives of Old Bromsgrovians and the latest developments at the School that continue to shape the lives of young people. This year’s issue reflects the powerful idea that while you may leave the School gates behind, you never truly leave the School. The friendships, the lessons, and the shared experiences live on.
School friendships are rooted in a mix of camaraderie, competition, and shared moments. You may scatter across the world, but the Bromsgrovian spirit never leaves you.
Like the pages of an old book, we return, year after year, finding comfort in familiar stories, and weaving new ones into the collective memory of our alumni community.
As you read through these pages, take a moment to reflect on the friendships you made here, and consider how they continue to enrich your life.
Enjoy reading your alumni magazine.
Megan Griffiths Editor
A LOOK BACK AT THE ACADEMIC YEAR 2034/24.
Commemoration Day 2024 was held on Saturday, 29th July, with the usual OB Marquee, and for the first time in the Schools’ history, a girls’ cricket match was played on Lower Charford during the afternoon, as well as the Gun Run by the CCF.
We are very excited to announce that Bromsgrove School is officially a 2024-25 Microsoft Showcase School.
This recognises our use of EdTech to support the very best in teaching and learning for our students.
In addition, congratulations to our Digital Leads on achieving Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert status. Following a rigorous application process, we are honoured to be recognised as visionary educators.
Upper Sixth students from the Bromsgrove School Class of 2024 have received their A level and/or BTEC results and there is a great deal to celebrate.
Overall, our 212 Upper Sixth leavers achieved 60% A*/A grades, or the equivalent, and 83% A*/B or the equivalent.
In BTEC, the 52 entries saw twenty-five Distinction*s (equivalent to A* at A level) being achieved. The proportion of those achieving at least a Distinction is 92%.
EPQ results are also strong. A large cohort of 115 entries saw just under two-thirds achieve at least an A grade. Earlier in the Summer, we received super news from the IB. Our cohort of 42 students performed well and earned exceptionally strong value-added scores. The average result for each student stands at 38.9 with nineteen students scoring 40 points or more. One pupil achieved the coveted full marks of 45 points, this is achieved by just 0.3% of IB candidates worldwide. The world average score for IB is 30.3 points. As regards universities, the picture is very encouraging; an unprecedented 90% have secured their first-choice place, and the vast majority of the remainder will be going to their insurance choice.
We congratulate our leavers and staff on this excellent set of results.
Picture This…
EXTRA-CURRICULAR HIGHLIGHTS.
Bromsgrove School was shortlisted for two awards at the Shine School Media Awards for the pupil-led magazine, Two Zero One: Best Non-fiction Article by Ilerioluwa O and Best Article on Designated Topic: Sport, by Annika K.
Well done to Ilerioluwa who was Highly Commended, and many congratulations to Annika who won her category.
“F24+ Kitcar International Champions, including three trophies at the same event, is one of the highlights of the year, our 11th season in total.”
World champions once again! Our two kit car teams have come away with three trophies at the Greenpower International Finals, with the Senior team being crowned F24+ 2024 Kitcar International champions.
The Senior team also won a trophy for winning the heat and accumulating the most points this season. This was achieved by a 100%-win record throughout the season, competing against universities, colleges and corporations.
The Juniors finished 5th place overall, a great result, and also won a trophy for Best Presented Team.
A three-trophy haul at an international final was an excellent achievement and we would like to thank both teams for an amazing season, our 11th in total.
In May, the Prep School was awarded ‘Best School Garden’ at the Malvern Spring Show.
Our garden ‘Over the Rainbow’ was admired in the sunshine, however, the highlight of the day was the way the pupils spoke passionately and confidently to the public.
After two tough days of Rugby 7s at the Howden Rosslyn Park National Schools Sevens, the 1st team progressed through to a semi-final, losing to a superb Millfield side. Bromsgrove gave everything and the team should be proud to have made it to the last four in the country.
In the Continental Tyres Schools Cup, the 1st XV reached the semi-final stage against Kirkham Grammar School. Despite their best efforts, Bromsgrove lost 19 - 14.
At the end of their Fifth and Lower Sixth year, twenty-eight pupils travelled to Malaysian Borneo for a three-week expedition with World Challenge. The trip was split into three sections to fully immerse themselves in all that the states of Sarawak and Sabah had to offer; from orangutans to centipedes, 85% humidity to epic thunderstorms and lush green jungles to sandy beaches.
We are sure Old Bromsgrovians remember House Music competitions from their own days at Bromsgrove. This year, there was an outstanding array of talent and wonderful support from Friends of the School.
Highly commended went to Thomas Cookes and Ottilie Hild; with Lupton as runners up, and Oakley as the winning ensemble with their rendition of Rewrite the Stars
The challenge phase saw the group hiking through jungle terrain, rivers and a testing altitude climb up to the 4095m peak of Mt. Kinabalu. For their community initiative, the pupils worked with the Iban tribe community on their peppercorn farm, providing labour and assistance in a variety of ways. Finally, the rest and relaxation phase saw the group snorkelling in the warm waters of Kota Kinabalu and white-water rafting.
Our aspiring medics helped Paramedics, Police Cadet Leaders and Junior Army and Navy Doctors to train the public on how to deliver lifesaving first aid as part of citizenAID’s Stop The Bleed Day 2024. The initiative was held at the West Midland Ambulance Service Sandwell Hub.
We are so grateful to CitizenAID’s Professor Sir Keith Porter, Major General Tim Hodgetts and Mr Mike Robinson for training our students and providing us with thirty training aids so that we can, in turn, educate and empower both our School and the wider community.
The U15 netball team gave Withington Girls’ School a tightly contested match in the Independent Schools National Netball Cup Final.
Unfortunately, Withington pulled away in the last quarter but it is a fantastic achievement to be the second best Independent School in the country.
About You
FIND OUT WHAT OLD BROMSGROVIANS FROM YOUR ERA ARE DOING NOW.
Elmshurst
Professor John Chadwick-Jones MA
PhD DSc (1941-1946) has had his book, Developing a Social Psychology of Monkeys and Apes, originally published in 1998, re-published by Routledge in 2024.
Ewan MacTaggart (1998-2003) recently donated some photographs to the Archive and visited the School for a tour with Mrs Pugh, his former Housemother.
During his visit, Ewan popped into the Heritage Centre to meet with the Archivist and put some names to the faces in the photographs.
Nate Wilde (2000-2011) also made a flying visit to the School during the Michaelmas Term, catching up with Mrs Pugh in Elmshurst House.
Hazeldene
Iskra Lawrence (2004-2009) had the honour of lighting up the Empire State Building in New York to raise awareness for Infertility Week.
Iskra, who moved to New York at the age of 22 to follow her modelling career, gained a Forbes 30 Under 30 award and is now expecting her second baby with husband, Philip. Iskra still enjoys modelling but now also focusses on her own brands, Saltair and Self Funding.
She can currently be seen in Boots stores nationwide as the face of Soap & Glory as part of their latest range of bodywash products.
We would also like to congratulate Iskra and Philip on the birth of their second child.
Serena Virk (2016) returned to School to take part in mental health training for the Initial Teaching Training scheme. We are always delighted to host future teachers at Bromsgrove. Serena is crrently training as a Primary School Teacher.
Lupton
Brian Clemens (1948-1954) and his daughter Jane Thurston visited the School for a trip down memory lane. Brian was part of the rugby team, enjoyed CCF and was a House Monitor.
When he left Bromsgrove, he was enlisted into National Service, having been due to go to medical school.
Following National Service in Germany, his parents had moved to the Isle of Wight. He followed them, went to catering college in Portsmouth and trained to be a chef. Brian actually met his wife at the college and they went on to be the youngest Hoteliers on the Isle of Wight.
During his time at catering college, Brian was chosen to work for functions for
Princess Margeret and Queen Elizabeth. He went on to own several businesses on the Island until the early passing of his wife in the early 90s.
Stephen Page (1978-1983), Chair of Faber and Faber, returned to Bromsgrove for an external event hosted by the Bromsgrove Society. One of our pupils was lucky enough to get the chance to speak to Stephen about publishing.
Harry Heath (1996-2012) appeared on BBC2 in Only Connect throughout December 2023 and January 2024. His team, Also Rans, is made up of contestants who were the runners up in the Mastermind Final in 2021.
Well done to Sam Leather (2003-2014) who ran the Queenstown Marathon in 3 hours, 1 minute in November. A brilliant time!
Fraser Foster (2005-2016) returned for a tour of the School, visiting his old House. Fraser now works in Information Management.
Lyttelton
Congratulations to Charles Byrne (1979-1985) who was awarded a CBE in The King’s Birthday Honours for his service to veterans in his previous post as Director-General of the Royal British Legion. Charles is now Director-General of the English Speaking Union (ESU).
Mark Bulmer (1981-1986) was able to put some names to faces during his visit to the Heritage Centre. An amazing memory for fellow pupil names and staff nicknames.
We were delighted to see Jasper Davidson (2016-2020) make his international debut for Scotland. The team were left frustrated by the rain against Oman, where they had to settle for a draw with just 25 runs required for victory. Earlier, Scotland had bowled Oman out for just 123, led by Jasper who impressed with 4-23 from his eight overs.
Mary Windsor
Dr Sarah Winnett (1996-2006) visited our most recent Prep School Open Morning. Sarah and her sister have helped many of our potential medics through the MedVetDent Soc. She remembers Mrs Leather as her first teacher.
Well done to Molly Allchurch (20122014) who completed the 2024 London Marathon. Molly ran in memory of her Grandma, raising funds for The Eve Appeal.
We were delighted to welcome back Jenna Kam (2018-2020) and her partner. Jenna enjoyed reminiscing in her old Boarding House and the music school.
Ottilie Hild
Congratulations to Eleanor Boardman (2014-2023) who completed the London Landmarks half marathon, raising over £500 for the British Heart Foundation.
Jasmine Underwood (2022) won the Eventing European Championships for Young Riders last month in Poland, winning both the Individual Gold and Team Gold for Great Britain.
At the age of 19, Jasmine has just stepped up to the Young Rider age group (19-21 year olds) and this is the first time in nine years a GB Young Rider has won double gold at this level - an incredible achievement.
School
It was lovely to welcome Richard Pettigrew (1962-1967) to the Heritage Centre and find himself in photographs from the School Archives. His pupil guide was also a Hockey player and was amazed to see how little protection the goalkeeper wore in the 1960s!
Mark Donkin (1977-1982) has had a long career as a Mainline Train Driver at both Birmingham New Street and Derby. He continues to work on the railway in a joint team between East Midlands Railway and Network Rail involved in improving Train Performance. The change to the work dynamic and acceptance of working from home following COVID-19 allowed him to relocate in June 2021 to The Far North and home is now on the shore of Cromarty Firth. Although he continues to commute to Derby a few days every month.
Mr Matthews (Senior Master) met with Alexey Klepikov (1996-2000, Head of House and School Monitor) over the Easter holidays. Alex is pictured below with his wife, Irina and daughter, Antonina.
This was Alexey’s first visit back to Bromsgrove since Commem 2000, relishing the opportunity to visit the School due to his relocation to Scotland. During a tour of the School, Alex found his old bedroom in School House and enjoyed seeing the new developments.
Tuan Vu visited the School at the end of the Summer Term with his wife and two daughters from Vietnam. He boarded in School House from 2003-2005. Tuan was greeted by the current Headmaster, Mr Punt.
Jamie Lewis (2016-2023) returned to share the exciting news that he started training for his dream job as Cabin Crew. Earlier this year, Jamie fulfilled his life-long dream of becoming Cabin Crew, joining Jet 2. Miss Smith, Head of Spanish, was invited along to join the family for Jamie’s Wings Ceremony. He studied Spanish at Bromsgrove and finished his A Levels last year
Thomas Cookes
We are always delighted to hear about longstanding connections with the School long after pupils have left, and this one is no exception.
Jessica Williams (née Kingston, Thomas Cookes 2004-2009) and her sister, Fran, were christened in the School’s Memorial Chapel, Jessica and her husband were married there is 2018, their first son, Malcolm, was christened in the Chapel in 2021, and now Logan, at the start of the Summer Term, was also christened in the Memorial Chapel by Reverend Hedworth. Congratulations to the Williams family.
Thomas Cookes
Good luck to Natalie Hatfield (2020) on her quest to represent Great Britain in the Los Angeles Olympic Games in 2028.
“My Name is Natalie Hatfield, I am 20 years old and I am a Modern Pentathlete for Great Britain. I grew up and lived in Redditch all my life before moving to Bath for training in 2023. I went to Astwood Bank first school in Redditch then moved to St Bedes for middle school and finally moved to Bromsgrove School from Year 9 on a Scholarship. Modern Pentathlon consists of five sports: running, swimming, fencing, shooting and obstacle course racing. I have been competing all my life in running and swimming but only decided to do Modern pentathlon in around 2019. I love the sport and have dedicated my whole life to it. Training is like a full time job. I competed in events such as Biathle (run, swim run) and Triathle (shoot, swim, run) where I won many medals when I was younger which is how I got into and fell in love with Pentathlon. I recently went to the Junior world championships where I finished 21st overall (1st GB athlete) and I had the second fastest run out of everybody. In the next few weeks I am heading out to Bulgaria where I will compete in the Junior European championships which I am looking forward too. I really hope to eventually get to the Olympics and compete there. That is the ultimate goal.”
Walters
Mike Ireland (1972-1983) represented his country at the World Age Group Aquabike Championships in Torremolinos, Spain. The event took place on 19th October, which Mike says is a poignant date as it is his late father’s birthday, a former Master at Bromsgrove that many OBs will remember, John Ireland.
Mike finished 12th out of forty-eight competitors in his age group.
Jon Badger (1985-1990) visited Wellington School to spend a day helping with geography lessons only to find a fellow OB, Lucy Leonard (née Raeburn, Mary Windsor 1985-1990) was Head of Geography.
Jim Cockin (1981-1991) has written his first novel, published in September 2024.
Ghost Tide is a gothic adventure story for children aged 8-12 and a fellow Bromsgrovian, Richard Donoghue, helped with some of the early design work for the book’s illustrations.
To find out more about the book, please visit https://www.eye-books.com/ books/ghost-tide
They often say friendships formed at School last a lifetime, and this is true of Ewan Guy (2016-2021) and Ollie Stone (2019-2021). They met at Bromsgrove and are now playing semi-pro rugby together at Bury St. Edmund’s.
Osborne
Uniform is a big part of School life, and we are even starting to collect it in our Archive. If you have any School uniform to donate, however old or recent, please contact the Archivist, Nikki Thorpe. You can find her contact details in the ‘Archive Report’ section.
Lewis
(2021) pictured here still wearing his Walters House tie, on his way to a recent theatre audition on the West End.
Wendron
Andrew Campbell (1967-1972), an Honorary Professor of Practice in Tourism at the University of Wales Trinity St David and former Chair of the Wales Tourism Alliance, has been honoured by His Majesty the King in the 2024 Birthday Honours List and made a Member of the British Empire (MBE) for his services to tourism.
From February 2022 to April 2024, Andrew was voluntary Chair of the Welsh Government Ministerial Advisory Board for the Economy and was voluntary Chair of the Wales Tourism Alliance from 2018 to 2021. During the pandemic, he was a member of the WG Tourism Ministerial Taskforce helping to develop recovery strategies and interventions for tourism businesses in Wales – and also sat on the UK Tourism Industry Emergency Response (TIER) group. From 2016 to 2020 he was Vice Chair of Pembrokeshire Tourism, the county where he has lived for many years.
Wendron- Gordon
Whilst Rachel Scannell, Assistant Head of Bromsgrove School, was in Thailand for a prospective families event, she unexpectedly met up with an Old Bromsgrovian - Mickey Pierce was at Bromsgrove in the early 1990s and boarded in Wendron-Gordon. Mickey is MD of Rose Residence, a family business and restaurant in Bangkok.
We are proud of our long history of welcoming boarders from Thailand, and we now have over seventy different nationalities at Bromsgrove.
We were delighted to welcome back Mark Celenk (1994-1999) and his family who were visiting the UK over the summer.
Mark enjoyed the tour around his former Boarding House, conducted by Mr Matthews. Upon arrival, he also met Mr McClure and the Headmaster, Mr Punt.
Tom Reynolds (2001-2006) made a quick pit stop on his way back home. He enjoyed looking around the Heritage Centre but the highlight was a tour around his old Boarding House, WG.
Tom hadn’t been back since he left almost ten years ago and commented on how many buildings had changed since his time at Bromsgrove.
Staff News
Denise Smith has given twenty-four years of service to Bromsgrove School as the Headmaster’s PA, working with four Heads - Mr Tim Taylor, Mr Chris Edwards, Mr Peter Clague and Mr Michael Punt.
At the end of the Summer Term 2024, Denise retired from her position and everyone at Bromsgrove School wishes her the very best in retirement.
Staff News
At the end of the Summer Term, we bade a fond farewell to the following teaching staff who left the School:
Paul Mullan (1997-2024)
Sarah Cronin (1998-2024)
David Atkinson (2015-2024)
Annika Eaton (2015-2024)
Gunny Patel (2019-2024)
Jacqui McCarthy (2020-2024)
Paul Prouse (2020-2024)
Lydia Xu (2023-2024)
Upon retirement, Paul Mullan was presented with a most unique gift - a bespoke wingback chair.
Ian Watkinson, a representative from Canterbury Sportswear, made the presentation in recognition of the length of time that Canterbury have had a working relationship with Mr Mullan.
The chair is covered in shirts from the School, Wasps and England Rugby, all of which hold a special place in Mr Mullan’s heart.
Miss Smith and Mrs Reid enjoyed meeting up with retired colleague Mrs Parkinson and were very happy to also bump into Old Bromsgrovian Jane Wilson (Hazeldene 2004-2009).
Speaker’s Lunch
With grateful thanks to Tim Taylor, former Headmaster 1986-2004, for delivering his talk at our third Foundation Speaker’s Lunch in Routh Hall.
It was such a lovely event bringing together former and current staff, past and present parents, Old Bromsgrovians from Tim Taylor’s headship and current School Monitors.
Greg Morrall and Matthew Harris
Tim Taylor pictured with his DNA model, which many OBs will remember from their time at School
BIST
Whilst in Thailand, Miss Scannell and Mr Punt met with our BIST scholars and their families. Some of these pupils then visited us to take part in our summer camp in July. They enjoyed trips to Warwick Castle, Birmingham and London, and when back at Bromsgrove UK, classroom activities were combined with fun sports and crafts to improve their language skills naturally.
Bromsgrove Mission Hills
The Headmaster, Mr Punt, welcomed families from Bromsgrove Mission Hills in Shenzhen, China to Bromsgrove UK to take part in our summer activity programme.
Whilst their children were taking part in activities and English language lessons, the group went on a tour of the grounds, learning about the history of Bromsgrove.
In September, the Headmaster, Mr Punt and Assistant Head, Miss Scannell reciprocated by visiting Mission Hills. They enjoyed meetings with pupils and visiting lessons. They also met with the board, staff members and parents.
Memorial Bench
Earlier this year, the School unveiled a memorial bench in honour of Kieran Brinn (Walters 2004-2019) who died in December 2022.
Kieran joined the Pre-Prep in 2004 and contributed in many areas of School life. In the Sixth Form he was Deputy Head of School and the Cookes Prizewinner at Commemoration 2019. After Bromsgrove, he went on to study Medicine at Liverpool University.
The bench is situated outside the Armoury, a fitting location as Kieran was a huge part of the Combined Cadet Force during his time at School. He made it to the rank of RSM, relishing the opportunity to lead and mentor the younger pupils.
Llanwrtyd Wells
On Sunday, 10th November, Megan Griffiths and Nikki Thorpe from the Bromsgrovian Office represented the School in Llanwrtyd Wells for Remembrance Sunday. A wreath was laid by Christopher Price (School 19391944), himself a pupil at Bromsgrove School in Wales, in honour of the Old Bromsgrovians lost in the war.
We also recorded the memories of Christopher as he walked around the town which will be available to watch via our YouTube Channel in 2025 to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of WW2.
Welsh Connections
Members of the Old Bromsgrovian Lodge visited the Loyal Wye Lodge in Llanwrtyd Wells, continuing a relationship that began during the WW2 School exile to that locality.
Pictured left to right are Jonti Marks, Colin Bradley of Loyal Wye, Christopher Price and James Boffey Colin and Christopher have been friends for in excess of sixty years.
Sports News
OB Golf
Grand plans for a six round Summer Eclectic competition were split asunder as, unfortunately, our sponsor was forced to pull out early in the New Year. This led to immediate complications because some members had already paid and we had already paid deposits to one of the golf clubs. This has made Ian Powell’s first year as Treasurer quite difficult, but he has been tremendously patient in dealing with it all.
We started the season, as usual, at Ladbrook Park in April with a nervous wait to see if the course was going to be open. It was open, and although very wet indeed, the day was enjoyed by all participants. Alex McIntosh and Miles Trigg won the Harry Clayton Goblets and Alex McIntosh won the Tony Hilton Cup.
Next up in May, we played the match against the School. We fielded three lady golfers as part of our strong team. The match was drawn 2-2 which meant that the School retained the Cup yet again. Also, in May, we had an excellent social event at Edgbaston Golf Club. The course was in excellent condition and the event was won by Josh Radford. We all enjoyed an excellent BBQ buffet dinner afterwards.
In June, we fielded a team a Little Aston Golf Club in the Public Schools Annual Foursomes day, but the team performed poorly and we didn’t manage a rostrum finish this time.
One of the two great successes of the year came at Olton Golf Club where a young team of low handicappers qualified for the first time in fifteen years for the finals of the Grafton Morrish. These finals are played over three days in Norfolk in late September. Our thanks must go to Alex McIntosh for captaining the side and making the arrangements for the Norfolk finals. Sadly, three of the original qualifying team were unable to make the trip, which meant that subs had to be used who were not of sufficient calibre and we were beaten in the second round. Still, the trip was hugely enjoyable and certainly has wetted everyone’s appetite for next year. We were extremely grateful to the OB fund for covering the cost of the finals match fee.
At Porthcawl this year, an excellent team, captained again by Ian Powell, won the Edward Harris Cup. This was a fabulous day when the course was beautifully manicured and the weather the most benign that most of us had ever known. Competition for places on the team for next year will be fierce!
Turn out at the final event of the year at Blackwell was poor and meant that the AGM was postponed until the 1st November and run online for the first time. Notably at Blackwell, we had several new Society members who were younger and without exception excellent golfers, boding well for the future. Trophies were won by Ben Sayce, Bill Caswell and James Lord.
Next year there will a few minor tweaks to fixtures, and a social away trip to Thorpeness in June.
Happy Golfing, - Mark Blake, Hon Sec e-mail: markb717@outlook.com
Bill Jordan paired with Jonny Mear at the Welsh Schools Cup for 39 points
OB Golf Society Team Photo
Adrian Powell playing the 18th hole
OB Rugby 7s
The Bromsgrove Bulls 7s is the new Old Bromsgrovians Rugby 7s team set up at the start of this year. Our goal for the year was to enter two tournaments, bring together former students and compete socially over the summer. Throughout this summer we have managed to complete all of our goals.
Firstly, we entered three tournaments, exceeding our goal of two - the Heart of Wales, Bromsgrove RFC’s Finfest and Cheltenham 7s festival. We had a total of twenty-two boys from six different year groups represent us across the three tournaments, bringing boys together who would’ve been in the Prep School when others were Upper Sixth. As well as the twenty-two players who represented us at the tournaments, we have a number of others who have helped out behind the scenes, with around fifty OBs currently part of our community.
Team Accolades
Our record throughout the summer reflects our quality and ambition to succeed. We managed to reach the final of all three tournaments, as well as going all the way and winning the Heart of Wales tournament. Throughout the three tournaments, we won twelve and only lost three games, which, with injuries and limited numbers in some tournaments, we feel was a huge success.
Player of the season - Recent leaver
Brendan Colley (Lupton 2022-2024) was our player of the season for his two ‘player of the tournament’ performances, as well as being our top try scorer for the season.
Most committed player - Another recent leaver, Harrison Osborne (Walters 20152024) showed commitment to the team by attending all three tournaments and only missing one training session all summer.
Looking Forward
Looking ahead to next summer, we want to build on the foundations we set and grow even more. This includes setting new on-field goals, growing our brand and bringing together even more OBs. Thank you to our sponsors who have made it possible for us to enter the tournaments and purchase the kit.
We are always looking for more support and new sponsors to help us in this journey. If you would like to get involved in any way, please contact us:
Email: sevens@bromsgrovebulls.co.uk
Instagram: Bulls_7s
- Oliver Bulleid
Sports News
OB Cricket
There was no second season syndrome for The Martlets since their long-awaited reformation. We have built our active playing roster healthily, increasing the number of interested younger Martlets from the more recent past. These OBs had nor prior knowledge of The Martlets tradition but have been gladly welcomed for their enthusiasm, skills and athleticism. They will be key to our future ambitions for the club, which is to provide a range of cricket opportunities for all ages and standards within the OB network.
As we look at the next five years, we have some general goals to achieve and it will be necessary that we keep recruiting active playing talent to meet these, as well as attracting engagement from non-playing supporters to attend matches and, in particular, our Open Festival Day down on Lower Charford. I would especially like to promote this day as one when all cricketing OBs feel welcome to join us for a relaxed and varied day of cricket.
Martlets vs The School – The Charlotte Hubbard Cup: 24th June 2024
For the first time in more than fifteen years, the Martlets took on the School, played on Lower Charford. It was also the first time that The Charlotte Hubbard Cup was presented in this now annual fixture, but, unfortunately, for the OBs, the School were the recipients!
Due to calendar pressures, the match was undertaken over a T20 format that was a little unfamiliar for some Martlets. The Martlets set up a respectable 155 run target, underpinned by an innings of 90 by Alex McGarry. Despite some notable bowling performances from Richard Gough, Richard Meese and Dan Clay, the School smashed the target off in 14.3 overs. The winning six hit back over the bowlers’ head by Nathan Jukes was a fittingly dismissive blow.
The School put on a fabulous BBQ and the two teams were able to mix and socialise with staff and parents in a perfect way. We also recruited several future Martlets amongst the leavers.
Director of Cricket, Tom Milne, is keen to retain the fixture in that last week of term and has suggested a longer format. We will be keen to get that cup back, hopefully bolstered by some newer OBs.
Once again on Lower Charford, twentytwo Old Bromsgrovians squared up against each other on Lower Charford with fun and good sportsmanship to the fore. It is such a treat to play at this incredible setting, one which no doubt was not fully appreciated when we were at School. Thank you to the School for providing refreshments and especially for the Grounds team for curating such a fabulous wicket.
It was noted on several occasions that the ground seemed to be bigger than we remembered but the reality is that it just takes a longer period of time to cover it!
We have an ambitious goal of playing three T20 matches on Festival Day in 2025 as follows:
- Men’s Over 35
- Men’s Under 35
- Women’s Open
We do not currently have any female Martlets and so, I appeal for OBs to contact me if you would like to take the lead on this.
As you can quickly calculate, this program for 2025 will require 66 OBs players and support from potential umpires, scorers and even caterers. We have some financial support from the school but I hope that we can turn this occasion into a much bigger event next year.
Martlets Cricket Festival: 5th July 2024
Martlets vs Himbleton CC: 16th August 2024
After hammering Himbleton last year, they turned up with a significantly stronger outfit whilst we were hampered with a couple of late withdrawals.
Several local OBs stepped up at the last-minute including Paul Neil, Dave Thomas and Stuart Thomas. Stuart was particularly pleased to dig out his old Duncan Fearnly pads and to be in a team photo because his School career had been mostly limited to scorer, as shown in the attached pics.
Nevertheless, this has rapidly turned into one of our favourite fixtures in a beautiful setting and Himbleton are very glad to keep hosting, not least because they noticed a substantial uptick in bar taking compared to most Sundays.
Finally, may I thank all those who have played this year and helped bring in players. I have had so may positive messages about the Martlets resurrection and I am keen that we reach a place where we have got a long term sustainable club with a variety of cricketing opportunities for all standards.
Our next aims are to establish a women’s team and in the coming years have the sort of competitive level team that we can enter formal Old Boys’ competitions. It remains a mystery why Bromsgrove, with its rich roster of players, does not have a competitive OB profile but we will always remain a club that provides matches for all levels.
- Will Glover
If you are interested in finding out more about The Martlets, please email oldbromsgrovians@bromsgrove-school.co.uk and we will pass your details to Will Glover.
OB Netball
The Old Bromsgrovians Netball Club fought through a difficult Summer 2024 League earlier this year to finish sixth place in Division 3. Before the Winter season could begin we had an important club milestone to celebrate. On Saturday, 14th September 2024, we marked the twentieth anniversary of the establishment of the club. Members ranging from those who had played in the club’s first season through to those who joined in the last eighteen months gathered in Birmingham to share food, wine, and tales of the highs and lows of the last two decades playing competitively in the Redditch netball league.
As we now move into Winter 2024, a new chapter for OB Netball unfolds as our long standing captain, Clare, has stepped down from her duties, and another long standing member of the team, Helen, has also stepped away from playing. Both Clare and Helen have been invaluable members to the club over the years and we want to thank them for all their service both on and off court.
If you are interested in joining a new team or getting back into playing netball, we always welcome new members of all abilities to join us. Reach out on Facebook ‘OB Netball (Bromsgrove)’ for more information.
We look forward to enjoying another season together in the Redditch Winter League... Here’s to another twenty years of OB Netball!
- Maisie Cook
OBEC
Spring trip to Beudy Mawr, Snowdonia, May 2024
Our meet began on a Friday, with some intrepid souls climbing old favourites such as Moel Siabod or running up and down Y Garn. The group then began to gather in the warm sunshine at The Rucksack Club Hut near Nant Peris, in the shadow of Snowdon. Phil Gibbs was first, then Dave Wells, and Mike Woodall provided a huge amount of beer from his brewery. The club went for a generous meal in The Vaynol Arms. Back at the hut, Andrada Tomoni, then Tony and Christopher Blacker arrived, just in time for cheese and port.
The following morning, groups separated to conquer various peaks, real or figurative. The day was sweltering, and two groups traversed the Glyders in opposite directions.
The Saturday evening meal, prepared by Jem Chilton, was fantastic and was followed by vigorous singing to Rob Oliver’s excellent guitar.
Sunday saw a leisurely departure in the sunshine, with small teams exploring new routes and even flying with a group of paragliders.
- Tom Thompson
What to expect from OBEC?
- A number of trips each year
- Annual dinner in Wales
- Local walks and pub lunches
- A convivial and friendly group
If you are interested in joining OBEC, please contact us via the Bromsgrovian Officeoldbromsgrovians@ bromsgrove-school.co.uk
If you are interested in joining the Old Bromsgrovian Expedition Club (OBEC) please contact the Secretary, Helen Rowberry via oldbromsgrovians@ bromsgrove-school.co.uk
Interested in climbing, walking, or meeting likeminded people?
Then the Old Bromsgrovian Expedition Club could be for you!
Wedding Bells
Would you like your wedding featured in the next issue?
Contact the Bromsgrovian Office by emailoldbromsgrovians@bromsgrove-school.co.uk
Tweet us @OldBromsgrovian, message us on the ‘Bromsgrove School Alumni (Old Bromsgrovians)’ Facebook Page or DM us on Instagram @bromsgroveschool
Graduation Stories
Congratulations to Phoebe Fletcher (Oakley 2014-2020) who has graduated from the University of Birmingham with a First Class Honours degree in German and English Literature. Many of Phoebe’s contemporaries will remember her on the Cobham Stage, and she is now back at Bromsgrove as our Drama Assistant.
Tilly Giles (Hazeldene 2004-2020) received a BSc in Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences from the University of Birmingham. Whilst there, she played National League Hockey and Rugby for the Medics Society. Tilly is now a Sports Intern at Bromsgrove.
Julia Len (Thomas Cookes 2018-2020) was awarded a BSc in Marketing and Management from Loughborough, along with a Diploma in Professional Studies from her year in industry. Julia is also back at Bromsgrove, working in the Marketing Department.
Reunited
Andy Padmore (Elmshurst 1984-1989) and Paula Clarke (Oakley 1984-1989) reunited some of their friends from Elmshurst and Oakley on Commemoration Day to celebrate their 35th anniversary of leaving the School.
Former Elmshurst Housemaster, Mr Colin Ashby and his wife, Tricia, were also in attendance.
Later that evening, the group presented Mr Ashby with a Senior House Monitors’ tie and an engraved pen to thank him for his stewardship of the Elmshurst 1984-1989 year group.
Neil Jacques, Jon Ives, Jonathan Lawrence, Paula Clarke, Paolo Perkins, Adam Taylor, Andrew Padre, Claire Bennison, Suzy Watts (née Rowe), Robert Sitch
Neil De Freitas, Matthew Challoner, Robert Sitch, Adam Taylor, Paolo Perkins
Chinese Farm Chronicles
Vivianne Zhang Wei (Housman Hall 2017-2020) graduated from UCL in September 2023 with First Class Honours in BASc Arts and Sciences.
Since graduating, she has been spending a gap year travelling around rural China through farm volunteering. She then hopes to do a Master’s degree in Chinese Studies.
You can read a short snippet of her Instagram blog @chinesefarmchronicles below, which she has kindly reworked for this magazine.
As a Swedish-born Chinese, I had always been deeply curious about my parents’ home country. Having lived in Europe all my life meant I had seen few places outside of my grandparents’ apartment in Beijing, knew virtually no one beyond my family’s circles, and was yet to fully master my mother tongue. Taking a year to travel China by myself and form my own understanding of the country was something I’d dreamed of for a long time.
And when I discovered that apparently a lot of farms provide free meals and accommodation in return for some help with daily chores, there wasn’t much stopping me. I deferred my Master’s offers, packed a bag, and now I’ve been travelling around the Chinese countryside through farm volunteering for almost seven months!
I’ve already stayed at six farms in six different provinces – harvested cherries on an organic family farm in the outskirts of Xi’an, butchered a yak in the Tibetan plateau, rode horses in the bamboo forests of Moganshan, seen the vanguard of modern agricultural technology at an industrial pig farm in Sichuan.
I know that the ‘life-changing gap year’ is a bit of a cliché, but this year has, truly, given me so much new perspective both on my own life and the world around me.
I have been sharing my whole journey on a personal blog this year; partly because I know I am so fortunate to be able to do something like this and want to document it the best I can, but partly also to show that there are ways to travel without breaking the bank! It does require some going off the beaten path – a daunting step for sure, but by far the best one I’ve ever taken.
- Vivianne Zhang Wei
The Path Rediscovered
Head Boy Thando Best left Bromsgrove in the Summer of 2023 and is now studying Economics with a professional placement at the University of Bath. It wasn’t quite the intended path to university that Thando expected, eventualy deciding to take a year out at Teneo as Senior Associate Consultant. Despite this, it turned out to be, in his own words “the best thing that happened to me.”
This is Thando’s story.
“There is no rejection, there is only redirection” - a quote that I have come to understand the meaning of over the last few months.
I am delighted to share that my position as a Senior Associate Consultant within the Insolvency Support Team (IST) at Teneo has come to end - a role spanning ten learning-filled months, that has sadly ended too soon.
Having had to take an unplanned gap year due to unforeseen circumstances, I was initially lost, with my university plans hitting a big roadblock (rejection), and I now had to find something to occupy myself with in the meantime. By chance, I had an offer to gain some corporate experience from Paul Meadows, on a year long “internship” of sorts, and it turned out to be the best thing that could have ever happened to me (redirection). Over the course of my time here, I had the privilege to experience such an expansive array of professional and personal developmental endeavours:
- Gaining proficiency in the use of the Insolvency Practitioner’s System, processing 4000+ transactions to values £100mn+ across 50+ administration and liquidation appointments
- Producing comprehensive training materials for new joiners, also having the responsibility to train new IST purchase ledger (PL) staff as I became more experienced in the role, as well as delivering training sessions to IST as a whole
- Having a chance to develop my leadership, becoming an informal team lead within the PL team within IST from June ‘24
- Mentoring students from disadvantage backgrounds 1 to 1, advising them on academic and professional career options post GCSE in accordance with their strengths, skills, and interests, over a month long program with Future Frontiers in March, in London
- Collaborating with an extensive network of professionals, based across England, Scotland, and Wales
- Having opportunities to network with experienced colleagues ranging from Associate Consultant to Senior Managing Director, at regular social events
This was truly an invaluable experience, and I’m glad to leave this role knowing I have developed skills that I will apply during my time at the University of Bath, as well as any future job roles, and made contacts that I know will serve me well in the future.
I was also recently recruited as a consultant at 180 Degrees Consulting’s Bath branch, and I’m currently working on a project with a client in the US over a ten-week cycle. Outside of work, I’m training for my first weightlifting competition in December 2024.
- Thando Best
“ There is no rejection, there is only redirection ”
Commemoration Day
Scan the QR code to listen to the 2024 Speeches and Prizegiving.
Our News to You
NEWS AND INFORMATION FROM THE BROMSGROVIAN OFFICE.
Class of 2024
A warm welcome to our most recent leavers, the Class of 2024, who we look forward to welcoming to OB events in the near future.
The Headmaster gave an OB tie or label pin to each Upper Sixth leaver in a special ceremony during the final Routh Assembly of the academic year.
We urge all leavers, if they haven’t already, to log on to Bromsgrovians Connected and update their contact details, particularly with a personal email address so that we can stay in contact.
Tony Finn Memorial
On 27th April 2024, we honoured the life of Anthony (‘Tony’) Finn (18 April 1930 - 22 May 2023) at a Thanksgiving Service in our Memorial Chapel.
Many OBs will recall him in many different guises. During his career with us - from 1965 to 1995 - he was a teacher of Physics, Rugby coach, Housemaster of Gordon, Second Master and Deputy Headmaster and, finally, Director of Services.
Star Legal Talk
Thank you to Tina Circus and Emily Dixon from Star Legal Limited (Incorporating Thomas Horton Solicitors) for updating us this morning on the importance of having a Will, as well as LPAs and IHT planning. The talk finished with a witty speech from James Sommerville (also of Star Legal, and our Clerk to the Governors and Trustees) on ‘Legal Howlers’.
House Photographs
Do you have any Elmshurst House photographs from 2000-2006?
If so, please email oldbromsgrovians@ bromsgrove-school.co.uk and we will pass on your details to the Archivist.
We will also consider other House photographs, if you’d like to share these with us. We are particularly keen for photographs to be named.
LinkedIn
Are you an Old Bromsgrovian or parent who works in the field of Medicine, Veterinary or Dental services? If so, we’d love you to join our new ‘Bromsgrovians in...’ LinkedIn group at www.linkedin.com/groups/13029299/
The group will allow you to network with those in your industry, as well as offer advice and support to Upper Sixth members who are part of the MedVetDent Society at Bromsgrove School.
We also have many other groups for different job sectors for you to discover - just search ‘Bromsgrovians in...’ on LinkedIn.
The Inside Story
Gary Hughes Lupton (19871992), Director of Football at Sky TV and our next Foundation Lecture speaker, looks back on his time at Bromsgrove...
What you remember about your time at Bromsgrove?
Bromsgrove was brilliant. I had a great five years, making friends for life and learning about life. Bromsgrove instilled discipline and structure. School gave me a maturity and a level of confidence going to university and into the workplace. The sport and facilities were top class. The education and learning A+!
What did you do after leaving Bromsgrove?
I went to City University to study Journalism, but I was lucky enough to spend the summer of 1992 working on the Olympics for Sky News. I then worked on the sports desk at Sky News throughout my course. I learned more in three hours at Sky than I did during my three years at Uni, but I stuck with the programme and graduated with a 2:1.
“Work hard and once presented with an opportunity, make sure you take it.”
So, what would you say has been a career defining moment up to now?
My career to date has been all about Sky. I went straight from Uni in 1995 into a full-time role at Sky News. I then worked at Sky Sports News, leading a production team from 2001-2010.
I moved to Sky Sports Football producing live programming and matches, including five seasons as Executive Producer on Champions League. I’ve been in my current role as Director of Football since 2015.
I’ve been so lucky to cover so many sporting events year after year –Wimbledon, the Ryder Cup, the UEFA European Championship, the World Cup, big domestic and European football matches. There have been many standout moments during my thirty plus years at Sky. Unfortunately, the most memorable was the most heartbreaking. I was in the Newsroom the night Princess Diana died and stayed throughout the night to see how such a monumental story was broken and covered.
Do you have words of wisdom for current pupils today?
Some words of wisdom that have always resonated with me came from the Head Boy at Bromsgrove in my Lower Fourth year. Paul was the nicest guy and said to me ‘he’d always treat people how he’d like to be treated himself’. I’ve taken that with me everywhere I’ve been.
As for advice, you just need to work hard and once presented with an opportunity, make sure you take it. Oh.. and as you get into the workplace... listen!
Gary pictured with the School tennis team in 1990
From the Archives...
A RUN DOWN OF THE ACTIVITIES OVER THE LAST ACADEMIC YEAR.
We have spent this year in Archive Club on a concerted effort to acquire an historic uniform collection and to display it in the Heritage Centre on our new mannequin. Students have been very useful in hanging and listing uniform and using their research skills and knowledge to date and place items. We are hopeful that uniform donations from Old Bromsgrovians will come to us for this collection, which is interesting to look at and a nostalgic memory for many OBs returning to School.
Our other key task in Archive Club has been to sleeve and catalogue the building plans collection we have. This has led to some intensive research and grounds searching to check buildings visually against architectural drawings and plans. The students have enjoyed siting buildings and plotting the changes across campus. The detailed listing of the map and plan collection is a significant contribution to preserving School history and a useful tool in answering architect enquiries around current changes to School buildings such as the Lodge at North Gate.
A donation from retired caretaker Bob Skipp of a Murphy Baffle Set A122M Radio has prompted much interest from visitors to the Heritage Centre and Bromsgrove Estates staff who have worked to repair and restore it; Bromsgrove School’s very own repair shop team! This radio used to play in the Tuck Shop where boys came for their treats and snacks, and we are interested in collecting memories of Old Bromsgrovians of the Tuck Shop, its environment and anything they remember being played on the wireless. Please do email the Archivist, Nikki Thorpe - NThorpe@bromsgrove-school. co.uk - with any written memories or a ‘voice note’ recording made on a mobile or tablet.
We are grateful for the ongoing donations from Old Bromsgrovians of artefacts, documents and photographs which give a more personal account of life at Bromsgrove School in different generations through the personal collections of individuals. The Cine film of the 1953 celebrations and Commem that year from the estate of OB Frank Westerman is a lovely addition to the archive collection and was available, following conversion to mp4, to view at Commem this year. The donated collection of OB Thomas Michael Sheaf who was at Bromsgrove School 90 years ago gave us an opportunity to curate a small exhibition around his collection to give an insight into school life in the 1930s.
An addition to the School WW1 archive collection of material relating to OB Guy Spreckley, one of three Spreckley brothers who were killed in the War, was donated by his great nephew, Paul Ticehurst. Our WW1 collection is used regularly by students for research and in workshop sessions as we commemorate Remembrance Day every November.
Screenshots from the 1953 cinefilm
Two items added to the Spreckley collection
Visits from Old Bromsgrovians, former staff and students are always welcome and this year, as always, we have welcomed visitors from different countries back to us and helped them find themselves in the heritage we preserve and keep. OBs, such as James and John Garrett, have generously given their time to be interviewed by students about their time at school and there was mutual enjoyment at shared memories and anecdotes; “toast filled pockets to help with constant cold and the School House Sixth Form bar” showed current students how times have changed since the 1970s.
We have been revisiting old technology to ensure that our treasures are not lost as the formats become obsolete. We have converted video to usb to store in a digital preservation system which will update formats to retain accessibility. Collecting and preserving new digital media as well as converting former formats is a key part of archiving for the future.
A plan for Walters House, formerly Orchard House, first built for John Brazier from local Bromsgrove builders, Braziers, in circa 1874. Chimneys and roof decoration are distinctive from the plan to the building today, as is the orchard reference on the grounds plan and an apple tree is still in front of Walters House from this orchard.
The architect was George H Gadd, who was one of the architects of the Cadbury estate in Bournville. His son Henry Agard Gadd went to Bromsgrove School in 1899 and went to Canada to farm after leaving School.
Mrs Lesley Brookes (Bursar) 1965 - 2024
It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Bursar, Mrs Lesley Brookes. After her valiant fight against cancer, she died peacefully on the evening of Sunday, 17th November with her family around her.
Lesley was born and educated in Nottingham before joining the Rover Group Management Trainee Scheme in Longbridge at the age of eighteen. She qualified as a Management Accountant and moved to HSBC Bank where she spent fifteen years working in various senior financial management roles within the Commercial Banking sector.
In 2003, Lesley opted for a career change by joining Winterfold School and, then, Bromsgrove, where she became Bursar in 2009. As a member of the Executive team at Bromsgrove, she was involved in key aspects of strategic, financial and operational decision making and management during fifteen years of unprecedented expansion.
It is impossible to overestimate the impact Lesley had on our School and all who worked with her. She was at the heart of Bromsgrove strategy: supremely competent and strategic. But it will be her integrity, warmth and compassion that many will remember most. At this moment, it is very difficult to imagine Bromsgrove without her smiling, gracious presence. Once we have further details to share, we shall let the Bromsgrovian community know.
The thoughts and prayers of everyone at Bromsgrove School are with Lesley’s family at this very sad time.
May she rest in peace.
Book of Condolence
Our online book of condolence is now open for you to leave written tributes in memory of Mrs Lesley Brookes. Please scan the QR code or use the link below. Please note all submissions are public. In addition, if you have any photographs of Lesley that you’d like to share, these can be included at the same time.
Once all submissions have been received, we will create a printed book to give to the family.
If you are unable to use the link, messages can also be submitted by emailoldbromsgrovians@bromsgrove-school.co.uk - or by post addressed to the Bromsgrovian Office, Bromsgrove School, Worcester Road, Bromsgrove, Worcs. B61 7DU.
Obituaries
OLD BROMSGROVIANS WHO PASSED AWAY IN 2023/24.
David Frank Carter (Wendron 1970-1976)
d. 1st July 2024
My only brother David Frank Carter went to Bromsgrove School when he was ten years old. I was twenty-two, but I was very involved in his Schooling.
Bromsgrove created many friendships, which lasted his whole life. Golf at Blackwell was also a big part of his life, and he was a very proud Old Bromsgrovian.
His loss is enormous, leaving behind so many loyal and great friends he met throughout his School days. RIP.
- Annie (sister)
EMF (Michael) Coversdale (Wendron 1960-1965) d. 5th June 2023
Michael Coverdale passed away suddenly following a heart attack on 5th June 2023.
After leaving Bromsgrove, Michael graduated from Warwick University with a degree in Business Studies, which he used throughout his career in a variety of businesses including house building and estate agency.
Michael developed a passion for dogs and Soames, his standard poodle, was always by his side. Soames would often accompany Michael when he went beating for a local shoot. A pastime enjoyed by both.
Michael is succeeded and greatly missed by his wife Carolyn, his three sons and four grandchildren.
- Colin Barton-Smith (Wendron 19611963)
Christopher David Glotham (School/Lupton 1960-1965) d. 19th September 2023
It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Christopher David Glotham on 19 September 2023 aged 76. He was born on 14th December 1946, the only son of Arthur and Elizabeth Glotham. Chris had failing health over the last four years but sadly was diagnosed with cancer in June 2023. His family were with him when he passed away peacefully at Stafford Hospital.
He leaves behind his wife Ruth of fiftytwo years, daughter Debbie, son-in-law Niel and granddaughter Sophie, Daughter Anna, son-in-law Richard and twin grandsons Sam and Charlie.
Chris (also known as ‘Cid’ to his peers) attended Bromsgrove and was in School House, later merging with Lupton. He loved playing sport and was in the 2nd XV Rugby team, 1st XI Hockey team and 2nd XI cricket team. He won the School Discus record of 131 feet, the Brotherton half mile cup of 880 years, equivalent to 800 metres and the School’s Fives Cup.
After he left School, Chris attended Wolverhampton Polytechnic (now Wolverhampton University) and attained a 2:2 degree in Business Studies. His first job was Personal Assistant to the Chief Accountant at Dowty Boulton and Paul in Wolverhampton and he then became Personal Assistant to the Financial Director and Company Secretary.
He moved to the Wrekin, Shifnal, Bridgnorth Magistrates Court based in Wellington as Chief Administrative Officer. In 1981, a new Court was built in Telford and he relocated there as Principal Administrative Officer. The Court then merged with Hereford and Worcester and was known as West Mercia Magistrates Court and Chris was the Court’s Business Manager.
Chris was an intelligent, kind, warm generous man who lived for his family. He had an enquiring mind and a wicked sense of humour. His interests included all sport, particularly rugby, archaeology, the solar system, but his real passion was glass. He was related, on his Mother’s side, to Frederick Carder, one of the most talented men in the history of glassmaking, the distinguished founder of the Steuben Glass works.
Chris was very proud to have attended Bromsgrove School and followed the Old Bromsgrovians with great interest. He had very fond memories of his years spent there.
Lovingly remembered by his family, ‘until we hold his hand again, memories sweeten time’.
- Ruth Glotham
Philip Ernest Hill (Gordon 1942-1947)
d. 30 April 2024
Philip Hill sadly passed away in St George’s Hospital, Tooting on 30th April. Phil, being a member of the School during the War, was one of the happy band that found their way to Llanwrtyd Wells, with his final years being back in Worcestershire. In May 2022 he revisited the School enjoying time looking at the archive room, the music school and especially around Gordon. The then present occupiers invited him in to see his old study!
After leaving Bromsgrove, Phil did National Service in the Navy and worked for a time with his brother Ted (also an OB) in Stafford. He moved to London in the mid-1960s, working for various companies until retirement. He was always very keen on music and drama, passions that were nurtured at Bromsgrove. He only had very happy memories of his time at the School.
- David Hill (nephew)
Alex Kay (Cookes 1967-1970)
d. 15th July 2024
Alex Kay died on 15th July 2024, aged 70.
Alex’s main passion in life was golf, playing off a single figure handicap for many years. He was an enthusiastic supporter of the OB Golf Society, which he represented in the Grafton Morrish competition.
His other great interest was motor racing, and worked for many years with the McLaren Formula 1 team, and for Ayrton Senna at the beginning of his career.
Latterly, Alex lived in Tibberton and greatly enjoyed meeting up with local OBs.
- William Kay (brother)
Kevan Ridgway (School 1958-1963)
d.
27th September 2024
Our Dad, Kevan J. Ridgway, passed away 26th September while in the Philippines. He was most proud of his three kidsShane, Liesl and Kim and their families. Equally, the extended families that made up so many of his treasured memories. Oh and his laugh, he had a great laugh, he laughed and laughed until he cried! He gave the best hugs that will so be missed.
Boy did our dad love soccer. His favourite teams were Coventry City, Nottingham Forest and England Three Lions. We doubt he missed watching many games over the years, he was a diehard fan.
Dad loved to travel:
In his own words... ‘I have been fortunate to travel extensively, first as a result of my own dad’s career. Travels to Gold Coast/Ghana via Europe, North Africa and Nigeria, only refuelling stops that gave mere glances of other countries. Then, when my mum took me back to the UK to start life at Bromsgrove, we had extended stays in European cities. Choosing a career in tourism enabled me to travel more in Europe, Australia, North America. In later years, personal travel took me to Dubai, Kenya, Philippines, Ireland (my favourite country with Scotland) and France plus, of course, extended trips back to England and Scotland after I had moved to Canada.’
- Liesl Negraiff
Obituaries
OLD BROMSGROVIANS WHO PASSED AWAY IN 2023/24.
Robert Tattershaw
(Gordon 1948-1954)
d. 11th December 2020
Robert Tattershaw died suddenly at home in Gore, New Zealand, aged 83, and is survived by his wife, Julie Tattershaw; his daughter Penny Tattershaw (Christchurch, NZ); and his son Richard Tattershaw and family (Lausanne, Switzerland).
Dad was a pupil at Bromsgrove, both the Prep and Senior Schools, for six years, 1948-1954. As he was from Derby, he was a boarder, first in Broome Cottage, and then in Gordon when he moved to the Senior School. Although this schooling was a short time in his long life, he loved his Bromsgrove years, and shared many stories fondly with my brother Richard and I as we grew up. Indeed, his enthusiasm was such that when given the chance to move to England to attend Bromsgrove, we both jumped at the chance. And, of course, Dad was right about Bromsgrove, so much so that Richard and I subsequently joined the staff, too.
- Penny Tattershaw
Editor’s Note: We have just been notified of Mr Tattersahw’s death
David Henry Penton Thomas (Lupton 1957-1962)
d. 30th May 2024
It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Mr David Henry Penton Thomas who was a boarder at Bromsgrove January 1957–July 1962.
He passed away peacefully at his home in Caswell, Swansea on 30th May 2024 after a long and courageous battle with Leukaemia, which he fought with dignity and without complaint.
David became Head of House at Bromsgrove, excelling in all major sports including cricket, rugby and hockey. Many a tale was told about his exploits whilst boarding there.
David left Bromsgrove to work in the family builders’ merchant business, T W Thomas in Swansea, never retiring and still guiding the company until his passing at 80 years of age. Over the years, he changed the business with it now being one of the biggest bathroom specialists in South Wales. David was well respected in the bathroom industry and T W Thomas won three national awards under his leadership. He was a man of great principles and was the first to help whether it be for a charity or someone in need.
He was loved and respected by all who knew him and will be missed greatly. David is survived by his wife Julie, sons Simon and Andrew and five grandchildren.
Stafford Wadsworth (Elmshurst 1955-1960)
d. 19th May 2024
Stafford Norman Wadsworth led a life filled with adventure and cultural exploration. Born in Lincoln, his journey took him across continents, from South America to Canada, where he met his lifelong partner, Truus. In a whirlwind romance, they married within two weeks. Stafford was awarded a scholarship to study Chinese and Oriental studies at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver. After several happy years in North America, Stafford and Truus returned to Europe, accompanied by their son, Algernon. They lived in Germany — where their daughter, Philippa, was born — then Scotland, and eventually settled in the Netherlands. First in Nijmegen and finally in the picturesque village of Eijsden, just outside Maastricht.
Stafford was a man of many talents and unique quirks. He was a journalist, interpreter, and translator, known for translating the Dutch Penal Code with the same ease as crafting exquisite culinary reviews. His love for food was matched by his appreciation for a good glass of wine or a nice beer, often accompanied by a ‘kopstootje’ (Dutch Jenever). Stafford immersed himself in the Euro Region, finding both professional and personal joy in its diversity. His linguistic prowess was legendary, as he could effortlessly switch between languages, from Mandarin to Spanish, Portuguese, and many more. After a few glasses of wine, he would often transition seamlessly from English to fluent French.
People remember Stafford as a bon vivant, an eminent man with a subtle sense of humor, and a gifted speaker. He was known as a “fine Englishman” who could always be counted on to bring life to any social or business gathering. Though his final years were clouded by the curse of Alzheimer’s , those who knew him will always remember the vibrant personality that left an indelible mark on everyone he met.
Stafford is survived by his son, Algernon Wadsworth, his daughter, Philippa, daughter and son in law , Rachel and Arjaan and his five grandchildren: Francesca, Henry, Thomasin, Anne, and Emma.
- Algernon Wadsworth (son)
Old Bromsgrovians who also died in 2023/24 but for whom we have no obituary:
Richard Berry (Elmshurst 1962-1967) d. October 2024
Andrew Clark (School 1947-1952) d. 17th January 2024
Robin Glover (School 1960-1965) d. 22nd November 2023
David Harrison (Wendron 1947-1950) d. November 2022
Editor’s Note: We have just been notified of Mr Harrison’s death
Jeremy Hilton (Gordon 1950-1955) d. 31st December 2023
John Hastie (1966-1970) Deceased date not known
Helen Hough (Oakley 1983-1988) Deceased date not known
Jennifer Jones (Former Staff 1988-2004) d. 28th July 2024
Anthony Riddle (Gordon 1956-1960) Deceased date not known
Peter Scott (Cookes 1970-1975) Deceased date not known
Philip Shearer (Gordon 1971-1976) Deceased date not known
Oliver Strong (Elmshurst 2006-2011) d. 4th March 2024
Jonathan Wilson (Walters 1999-2004) Deceased date not known
Richard Gavin Wilson (Wendron 1963-1964) d. 25th December 2023
John Malcolm Wood (Gordon 1956-1961) d. 29th October 2023
Foundation Lecture
THE THIRTEENTH ANNUAL FOUNDATION LECTURE - MARCH 2024
The Thirteenth Annual Foundation Lecture was given by Professor Sir Keith Porter (a parent at Bromsgrove) at the Royal College of Physicians in London.
It was lovely to see so many Old Bromsgrovians, parents and friends of the School join us to hear Professor Sir Keith give a truly inspiring talk reflecting on his medical career, including collaboration with military and specialist teams in Birmingham.
Mark and Susan Hotchin
Ann Taylor, Matthew Taylor (Chairman of Foundation), Tim Holder
Michael and Libby Nguyen
Sheila Pearson, Charles Pearson, Kim Daniels, Jackie Daniels
Shirley Gummow, John Darby, Quentin Gummow, Susan Darby, Matthew Horton
Philip Bowen, Stephen Bradley, Michael Punt (Headmaster)
The Foundation
THANKING OUR DONORS, LEGACY MEMBERS AND SUPPORTERS.
Appreciation Lunch
Old Bromsgrovians, Parents and Friends of the School attended our annual Appreciation Lunch in May 2024, an event to thank our donors and legacy society members for their support of the Foundation and the lifechanging bursaries scheme.
Sir Thomas Cookes Legacy Society
The Sir Thomas Cookes Legacy Society acknowledges and thanks all those who have made a gift in their wills to Bromsgrove. Members are invited to an annual lunch and a new legacy board listing those who have made bequests over the years will be erected around the School.
Would you like to know more about the Foundation?
Email: foundation@bromsgrove-school.co.uk
Post: Bromsgrove School Foundation, Worcester Road, Bromsgrove, B61 7DU
If anyone is interested in making a gift in their will to Bromsgrove, please contact the Foundation Office: foundation@bromsgrove-school.co.uk or telephone 01527 579679 ext 366.
Jim and Frances Page
Jerome and Emma Wallington, Michael Punt (Headmaster)
Stewart Towe (President of the School), Anne Towe, Stephen Bradley
John and Fran Rogers, John Denby
Pat Whistance, Hugh Furber
Donor Roll
THANKING OUR DONORS FOR THEIR GENEROUS SUPPORT DURING 2023/24.
(DONATIONS & GIFTS IN KIND* RECEIVED FROM SEPTEMBER 2023 - SEPTEMBER 2024)
Cookes
Stephen Bradley (1968-1973, Foundation Trustee)
Kim Daniels (1960-1965, also Lupton)
Digby, Lord Jones of Birmingham Kt. (1969-1974, also Walters)
Matthew Horton (1962-1967, Foundation Trustee)
Richard Kenchington (1965-1969)
Matthew Taylor (1968-1973, also Walters, Chairman of the Foundation)
Elmshurst
Philip Baldwin (1954-1958)
Richard Cariss (1956-1959)
Andrew Enston (1997-2002)
Hugh Furber (1952-1957)
Joe Herbert (1954-1957)
Philip Hobson (1948-1952)
Sungyoon Joseph Hong (2018-2023)
Simon Skelding (1954-1962, deceased)
Topper Webb (1972-1973)
Vasil Yosifov (2017-2022)
Gordon
Nevil Malin (1948-1953)
Graham Sim (1969-1974)
John Vine (1945-1955)
Hazeldene
Bayley Pielow (1998-2003)
Housman Hall
Tamara Aboul Gheit (2021-2023)
Haotian Cui (2015-2017)
Robyn Davies (2016-2018)
Connie E (2013-2015)
Rebecca Foster (2017-2019)
John Kim (2020-2023)
Arina Makarina (2022-2024)
Paolo Romanengo (2017-2019)
Jacky Wong (2015-2020)
Lupton
Richard Brookes (1961-1965, President of the Foundation)
Kim Daniels (1960-1965, also Cookes)
Frank Dunne (1960-1965)
David Dutton (1956-1961)
Aled Luckman (2002-2018)
Nicholas Martin (2008-2017)
Iain Messore (2004-2020)
Kelvin Morris (1976-1981)
Christopher Porter (1958-1963)
Philip Powell (1962-1967)
Lupton (cont.)
David Reeve (1950-1954)
John Steveni (1975-1980)
David Walters (1981-1986)
Hugh Westlake (2002-2010)
Lyttelton
Dan Ashton (2011-2020)
Will Lockhart (2005-2016)
Gurbinder Maumi (1998-2005)
Gareth Morgan (1953-1958)
Mary Windsor
Sarah Winnett (1996-2006)
Oakley
Amy Nolan (2012-2019)
Ottilie Hild
Lauren McLean (2017-2021) School
Andrew Clark (1947-1952, deceased)
John Cutler (1956-1961)
John Denby (1956-1965, Foundation Trustee)
Jeremy Elwell (School 1990-1993)
Geoff Godsall (1956-1959)
Joe Houlcroft (2007-2018)
Owais Iqbal (2019-2024)
John Massey (1962-1967)
Jim Page (1945-1949, also Headmaster of Junior School 1961-1989)
Christopher Price (1939-1944)
David Roberts (1953-1958)
Haydn Stanney (2013-2020)
Chris Tan (1961-1966)
Jerome Wallington (1995-2000)
Robert Williams (1963-1968)
Thomas Cookes
Georgia Doohan-Smith (2006-2020)
Fran Kingston (2002-2013)
Walters
Digby, Lord Jones of Birmingham Kt. (1969-1974, also Cookes)
Luke Simonds (2003-2008)
Matthew Taylor (1968-1973, also Cookes, Chairman of the Foundation)
Wendron / Wendron-Gordon
Trevor Groocock (1951-1955)
David Harrison (1947-1950, deceased)
Will Horne (1998-2002)
Nikolay Kovalikhin (2021-2024)
Jeff Lomax (1949-1954)
Oleksii Moskalevskyi (2015-2020)
Friends of the School
Old Bromsgrovian Lodge
Judy Dennison
Chris Edwards
Finstall WI
Jane Lodge (Foundation Trustee)
June Longmuir
Richard Mercer
Rachel Scannell
James Sommerville
Ann Taylor
Tim Taylor
Patricia Whistance
Parents
Mr and Mrs Barnes
Mr and Mrs Beaney
Mr and Mrs Boto
Mr and Mrs Broadhurst
Mr and Dr Brown
Mr Chen and Mrs Tian
Dr Chiu and Dr Cheng
Mr Duda and Mrs Zhukova
Mr and Mrs Dunnaker
Mr and Mrs Friend
Mr Florov and Mrs Florova
Wg Cmdr and Mrs Goldstraw
Mr and Mrs Gurung
Mr and Mrs Hunt
Mr and Mrs Jukes
Dr Barbara King
Mr Li and Mrs Chen
Mr Mikhonichev and Mrs Chesnova
Dr and Mrs Mould
Mr and Mrs Odebyi
Mr and Mrs Rose
Mr Sanchez Talle and Mrs Bosser Torrens
Mr and Mrs Schutt
Mr Wong and Mrs Ho
Events
WHAT’S ON AT BROMSGROVE DURING 2025 AND BEYOND.
March 2025
The Thirteenth Annual Foundation Lecture
Thursday, 13th March 2025
Venue: London - TBC
Speaker: Gary Hughes (Lupton 19871992), Director of Football for Sky TV
The Foundation Lecture is open to anyone with a connection to Bromsgrove. Email invitations will be sent out in the Lent Term.
May 2025
Appreciation Lunch
Thursday, 15th May 2025
Venue: Bromsgrove School
Donors from the current and last academic year and members of the Sir Thomas Cookes Legacy Society are invited to a special lunch with the Headmaster. All eligible Old Bromsgrovians, parents and friends of the School will be sent invitations in the Lent Term.
June 2025
Commemoration Day
Saturday, 28th June 2025
Venue: Bromsgrove School
Old Bromsgrovians and their families are warmly invited to the OB Marquee on Lower Charford between 1.00pm and 5.00pm. Information will be emailed in the Summer Term and posted on our OB Facebook Page. OBs are encouraged to sign up to register their attendance.
June/July 2025
OB Martlets Cricket Day
June/July 2025 - TBC
September
2025
Pre-1980s Leavers’ Reunion
Saturday, 6th September 2025
Venue: Bromsgrove School
Time: 10.00am - 3.00pm
If you left School before 1980, this reunion is not to be missed. Invitations for eligible OBs will be sent out during the summer.
November 2025
Speaker’s Lunch
Date to be confirmed
Venue: Bromsgrove School
On-going
Bromsgrove Futures & OB Networking
In conjunction with the careers department, we are looking for Old Bromsgrovians who would be willing to undertake mock interviews with current pupils, typically the type of interviews you would have for university entrance or a leavers’ work programme. In addition, the Bromsgrove Futures department are always looking for guest speakers to give a presentation or advice to small groups of current pupils.
To find out more about any of these events, or if you have suggestions of your own, please email us at: oldbromsgrovians@bromsgrove-school.co.uk
Tel: +44(0) 1527 579679 ext 361/366
Or contact us the good old-fashioned way: Bromsgrove School | Worcester Road
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How you can help
There are many ways in which you can help the Alumni Office and School. Please tick the box where relevant.
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