College News Spring 2015 by Cheltenham College

College News Spring 2015

Remembering the fallen Centenary events and Remembrance

Curious Finds for Curious Minds Artist in residence, Linn Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Carroll

Sporting inspiration Professional athletes visit College

#SaySomething Pupil-led anti-bullying initiative

A trip to remember Pupils visit the GalĂĄpagos Islands 1

Lower Sixth Independent Projects The Independent Project is now in its fourth year and continues to give every Lower Sixth student the experience of truly independent academic work, requiring their own decision-making, evaluation and justification.

College is dedicated to helping Sixth Form students to effectively prepare for the future. Whatever our students go on to do when they finish A2, greater independence will be required, both personally and in their approaches to further

Dr Alex Peterken Headmaster

Heritage & Community

We have returned after the Christmas break refreshed and revitalised, ready for the term ahead. Academically, we have a record number of UCAS applications and congratulations go to the members of the Upper Sixth who have received offers from their first choice Universities. Looking out onto College and reflecting on Heritage Day, I am so pleased that College provides opportunities to open our doors and share our rich heritage with the wider community. The history and magnificence of our buildings is something we at College should never take for granted and credit must go to our estates staff who work tirelessly to keep College in its immaculate state. In this edition you will read about a wide range of events and activities commemorating the one hundredth anniversary of the First World War. I am grateful to our archives team, who have been incredibly busy researching and documenting the 3,540 Cheltonians who served during the First World War. Our ongoing programme of Centenary events has included a battlefields trip, war poetry recitals, concerts, exhibitions and last term’s musical Oh! What A Lovely War. Particularly poignant was the Armistice Day Service, held on Chapel Lawn, which brought together staff, members of the Cheltonian Association & Society and pupils from The Prep and College to pay their respects as a united College community; the rain failed to dampen what was a significant moment in the history of College. On this day we remembered all those who have served and who are currently serving, as well as reflecting on the strength and diversity of our College community and all we owe to those who went before us.

Dr Alex Peterken, Headmaster

College News Spring 2015

education. For this reason, all Lower Sixth students undertake an independent research project. The top 17 essays have been published in a bound book (featured), which provides a wonderful record of extremely fine work, showcasing unique personal interests and intellectual curiosity. The independent projects are an excellent vehicle for developing self-motivation and proactivity in a student-mentor relationship that mirrors the university model. The academic rigour of the project prepares students for the skills they will require: thinking logically about arguments and counter-arguments; presenting information in a balanced and persuasive fashion; and adopting a critical stance towards sources. Essential practical skills include researching, citation and referencing, essay planning and handling language and data in a precise way. Cheltenham College is very grateful to Global Philanthropic for supporting the prizes for the projects in recognition of their Chairman, OC Mr Malcolm Hutton (Cheltondale, 1959).

Dr Mary Plint, Director of Learning

CHELTENHAM COLLEGE

L6 Independent Projects 2014

Cheltenham College Creative Writing Competition 2014 In Autumn term the inaugural Cheltenham College Creative Writing Prize was launched. Entries - poetry or prose - were invited from any current pupil on any theme. Over sixty girls and boys entered, submitting everything from Gothic ghost stories and closely observed descriptive vignettes, to moving personal poetry and satirical takes on College life. Members of the English Department enjoyed immensely the task of judging the entries. The overall standard was extremely high; there is enormous talent within the pupil body. A winner and three runners up were chosen from Lower College and the same from Upper College.

Upper College Winner

Eric Robinson (U6, S)

Runners Up Isabelle Winstanley (L6, Q) Tiffany Too (U6, W) Georgie Thorpe (U6, Ch)

Lower College Winner

Harry Byrne (5th, Xt)

Runners Up Edward August (4th, H) Eleanor Davies (3rd, Q) Lucy Hall (5th, Ch)

Academic Awards Given since the Summer Term 2014 Edition of College News:

Headmaster’s Distinctions

Congratulations go the following students who have been awarded with a Headmaster’s Distinction. Francesca Ball (U6, Ch), ‘The Suffering Suffragettes’ Harry Byrne (5th, Xt), Alex Cove (5th, Xt), Elliott Napier (5th, Xt), ‘The Changes in 1920s America’ – History collaborative film Isabelle Kemp (3rd, A) ‘Is the UK cooling or warming?’ – Geography Essay

Full Academic Colours Congratulations to the following students, who have gained Full Academic Colours.

Will Donlan (U6, S), Annabella Köhler (L6, Ch), Araminta Lawson-Smith (L6, Ch), Antonia Stuckey (L6, Q)

Heritage Open Day 2014 As part of Heritage Open Weekend in mid September, Cheltenham College opened its doors to nearly 300 visitors. On the Saturday morning 200 people came to see the insides of our older buildings.

Visitors were mostly from the Cheltenham area but also came from as far afield as Hampshire, Swansea, and even Munich and Luxembourg. Signing in at the Chapel, they were free to look around the Chapel with a printed ‘self-guide’, until the next tour left to take them to see the Chatfeild-Roberts Library, Big Classical and the Dining Hall, pointing out en route various features of note, such as the South African War Memorial, the frieze between

the Quad and Big Classical stage, and the Wilson plaque by Kathleen Scott.

In the afternoon Thirlestaine House was open to the public, entering through the dog entrance, as it is fondly known, to the Rotunda and then on to the Long Gallery, finally exiting through the White Gallery. We saw some of the same people that had been with us in the morning, but many new faces joined us in the afternoon. One woman was so pleased with her two visits that she left the following note: “Thank you for opening the various parts of the school to the public; it was an absolute treat to be shown the inside of buildings one passes on a daily basis and discover the treasures within.”

Christine Leighton, College Archivist

Languages Debate The 3rd Annual Cheltenham interschools languages debating competition took place on Tuesday 19 November at Cheltenham College. Sixteen teams of Sixth Form students from Cheltenham Ladies’ College, Dean Close, Pate’s and Cheltenham College took part in debates in French, German and Spanish.

The motions were:

• It is time to stop immigration? • New technologies unify us • In today’s society is it better to be a woman than a man? • Private education should be abolished

Congratulations to the College team who won the French final beating Cheltenham Ladies' College by one point.

UKMT

The UKMT Team Challenges promote mathematical dexterity, teamwork and communication skills. They also give pupils the opportunity to compete against pupils from other schools in their region. Activities include Group Round, Crossnumber and a Mathematical Relay. Well done to the College team of Will Moss (U6, Xt), Cameron Campbell (U6, L), Jeffrey Kwong (L6, BH) and Neil Hacker (L6, H) who came third (from 17 teams) in the Regional Finals of the UKMT Team Maths Challenge beating Dean Close and Cheltenham Ladies' College in the process.

First World War Centenary Programme For the Fallen: Remembrance at College Wilfred Owen: More Cheltonians than currently attend College died during World War One, a shocking statistic, but one that has truly given us here at College some understanding of the enormity of the sacrifice made during the Great War. During our morning prayers the names of fallen Old Cheltonians were read out, marking the anniversary of their deaths. A moving Remembrance Sunday service was also part of College’s commemorations, as a huge congregation gathered to hear the sounding of The Last Post, the moving anthems of the College Choir and to sing the traditional Remembrance hymns.

College Archive team, the exhibition focused notably on a pupil who won a Victoria Cross and the War Diary of an Old Cheltonian.

This service was coupled with an excellent exhibition, titled Old Cheltonians go to War; 3,540 served but 675 gave more. Put together by the

Isabelle Winstanley (L6, Q)

Whilst some members of College were remembering the fallen in our own chapel, others were doing the same, one hundred miles away in London. Members of the CCF were parading in front of the Cenotaph, which proved to be a moving and memorable occasion for all involved. College also conducted a Remembrance relay, with representatives from all Houses coming together to run and support the participants. On 11 November, College conducted a special Armistice service, which gathered the whole community together, including the Preparatory School, on the lawn outside Chapel. Despite the rain and wind, there was an atmosphere of reverence and calm and the signing of I vow to thee my country was perhaps more heartfelt than ever before.

National Memorial Arboretum Service Cheltenham College is the only school that has its own memorial at the National Memorial Arboretum. The main inscription reads: ‘To the memory of former pupils from Cheltenham College who have served in wars and campaigns since 1841’. The Lectern Board (outlining College’s history) to the right of the memorial was donated by Dr Bridget Jepson the niece of Desmond Scott, an Old Cheltonian who was killed in action in 1916 at Pozières. On Sunday 5 October 2014, the Third Form joined a CCF detachment and paraded the College Colours at a Memorial Service along with the Cheltonian Association & Society. In his welcome, the Cheltonian Society President, Mr Peter Badham, paid tribute to all those Old Cheltonians who have served their country and the 675 who were killed in the First World War. The College Chaplain spoke of the six thousand different stories that “this stone has to bear and will bear too the future stories…” referring to all those Cheltonians who have served their country and those currently serving. Wreaths were laid by Cadet Warrant Officer 1 Jack Grimwade (U6, NH) and Mr Peter Badham. The Last Post and Reveille were sounded by Cadet

College News Spring 2015

Poetry and Music of the Great War

With the College Chapel lit by candlelight and full to capacity, the choir singing from the balcony and College pupils reading from Owen’s works, this was a truly memorable occasion. Professor Tim Kendall led us in reflecting not simply on the First World War, but also upon Owen’s experience of it, as documented in his poetry and letters. The evening offered time to reflect upon the terror, the suffering and the waste, along with the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity and the strange beauty of comradeship in battle. Members of the audience commented: “It was a very dignified and moving occasion with stunning music from the College Choir and outstanding readings from pupils framing a fascinating lecture by Tim Kendall on one of our most important poets.”

Lance Corporal Luke Knudsen (5th, NH). The Ode of Remembrance said by Cadet Corporal Antonia Stuckey (L6, Q) and the Kohima Epitaph said by Cadet Leading Hand Dmitrii Usynin (L6, NH).

“This was a wonderful addition to the Cheltenham Literature Festival; sombre yet inspiring in the beautiful College Chapel and extremely impressive performances from pupils of College.”

This trip to the NMA was a significant event in the College’s ongoing First World War Centenary programme.

Freddie White (4th, BH) and a member of Choir said: “It was a very moving event, with the linked themes between the music and the singing. It was inspiring hearing the soldiers’ side of the story and what they felt.”

First World War Exhibition

• football matches against locally-billeted troops • it was an OC, Nevil Macready (1878-1880, NH), who appointed Fabian Ware to start what became the Commonwealth War Graves Commission

From Monday 10 November to Saturday • another OC, John Parker (1886-1892, Day Boy and Xt) was the Chief Horticultural Officer of the 15 November 2014, Cheltenham College Imperial War Graves Commission from 1918 hosted an exhibition in the Chatfeild• Edward Urquhart (1891-1895, S), a lone Roberts Library - Old Cheltonians go First World War soldier buried in Boezinge to War; 3,540 served but 675 gave more. churchyard, used to have a compatriot Preparing for the first of our annual Exhibitions commemorating the centenary of the First World War, it was fascinating to research the 67 Old Cheltonians who had died in the opening months of the War − from 4 August until 11 November 1914. If only there had been time to research all those who had served and survived; perhaps, with the help of the project volunteers, we will achieve that aim by the end of the centenary. The Exhibition included displays based on highlights of information unearthed. Here are a few examples: • against going to war, John Morley (1855-1856, Cooper and Clarke) resigns his Cabinet position

alongside him − Lt Charles Bowes-Lyon, the Queen Mother’s cousin, whose body was later exhumed and reburied in New Irish Farm Cemetery • OCs related to artists, notably George James (1894-1898, H), grandson of John Everett Millais, and Colin MacKenzie (1905-1910, Latter and Clauss), who was the great nephew of Sir Edwin Landseer • Lord Roberts appealed for the loan of field glasses to train new soldiers saying, “If the owner’s name is engraved upon the glasses, every effort will be made to restore them at the conclusion of the war”!

• Rev. Reginald Waterfield (Principal, 1899-1919) tutored Prince Arthur of Connaught in the early 1890s

• Claude Norman Champion de Crespigny (1903-1905, Xt) was one of five siblings all called Claude and one of the few officers whose body was repatriated before the practice was forbidden in 1915.

• the War Office commandeers half the Officer Training Corps’ rifles

People have also been generous in lending artefacts or allowing us to scan old letters and photographs:

• for the first time we were able to read one of the poignant letters Waterfield wrote to the families of those who lost a son in the war • Princess Mary’s Christmas gift tin for Horatio Vicat (1899-1903, BH), sent to his mother because he had died before Christmas • German war diaries and set of medals • set of medals, including an OBE, that belonged to Charles Herbert Pigg (1900-1906, S; Staff, 1909-1940, except when serving in the First World; Housemaster of Cheltondale, 1922-1934; served in Second World War; secretary and treasurer of the Cheltonian Society, 1945-1960; editor of Cheltenham College Register, 1841-1951). Sadly the owner of the medals wishes to sell them so they will not be available for future Exhibitions. Sometimes we began to unravel quite complex webs of connections. For example, researching the three naval deaths we discovered many links. Donald MacDonald (1900-1903, Teighmore and S) drowned when HMS Hawke was torpedoed by U-9. That same U-Boat also torpedoed HMS Aboukir, killing Alan Robertson (1908-1910, Teighmore) our youngest to die, aged only 15. Wilfred Stirling (1899-1901, L) had also served on the Aboukir before the war but, at the start of the war, was serving on HMS Monmouth, which was sunk by Admiral von Spee’s squadron at the Battle of Coronel, off the Chilean coast. And the captain of HMS Monmouth was none other than the grandson of William Dobson (Principal, 1845-1859)! [Captain Frank Brandt was the son of Francis Brandt (1849-1858, Day Boy; member of College Council, 1896-1919) and his wife Lucy, daughter of William Dobson.] Finally, if anyone has any papers or photographs relating to Old Cheltonians, or any First World War artefacts that they would be willing to lend for future Exhibitions, do let me know. Similarly, if you would like to be one of the project volunteers, please get in touch.

Christine Leighton, College Archivist

Yesterday Lost

On 12 September, Cheltenham College presented Yesterday Lost - Songs and poems of Ivor Gurney, in the Thirlestaine Long Gallery. David McKee, Director of Music, participated in the performance as baritone along with Naomi Johnstone (soprano) and Jonathan Carne (pianist and reader of the poems) of the Ivor Gurney Society, which celebrated the work of Ivor Gurney, a local composer and poet in the days of World War One.

thus highlighting his unique style of literature integrated into music. As Mr Carne said, Gurney who “set poetry into music” was not simply a songwriter. Another prominent part of the popularity of Gurney’s work among that night’s audience is his propensity to portray the mundane in a fascinating and thought-provoking way. As Mr McKee describes him: Gurney was definitely “a war poet of a different kind.” It was an unforgettable night for both the audience and the performers; a beautiful blend of song and poetry that was enjoyed by all.

Ashley Yu (L6, W) and Matthew Chye (L6, NH)

The performance was presented in three parts; the three stages of his life. First was his life in Gloucestershire, followed by his experiences during the war, and finally ending with his life after the war, including some poems that were written whilst he was in a mental asylum, where he spent the final 15 years of his life. One of the most significant aspects of the recital was that Gurney’s poetry was performed in song,

Third Form Battlefields Trip

In January 2014 keen History researchers, now in the Fourth Form, worked every Monday after school to locate the graves of all our 675 old boys who lost their lives in what was called at the time the ‘Great War for Civilisation’.

The current Third Form have, this academic year, continued the project. The Commonwealth War Graves Commission, the Victoria Cross Trust and the Khaki Chums, to name just a few, all follow the progress of our researchers through their Twitter feed, as they roll the project out across Flanders. To date 140 of our 675 fallen have now been visited and honoured by current pupils. Visit: http://www.cheltenhamcollege.org/thefirst-world-war for the full story of the October Half Term trip to commemorate the OCs who died during the First World War.

college Remembers

College News Spring 2015

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Sixth Form Trip to France

During the first week of the October Half Term, eighteen Upper College students studying French travelled to Montpellier. The trip allowed the students to practise oral French in an intensive way, and to be immersed in Francophone culture for a week. The students, who were billeted with French families in the centre of the stunning town, had four lessons

of French each morning with teachers from the renowned language school Accent Français. In the afternoons and evenings there were visits to the town and other nearby destinations, such as Nîmes. Highlights of the week-long trip included watching the latest French blockbuster Samba at a local cinema, undertaking a French cookery course and hiring bikes to cycle to the beach at Palavas-lesFlots. However, the real highlight of the week was watching a handball match between Montpellier and Nîmes, a real grudge of a derby match! Speaking in French became a way of life for the week, and students returned saying it was one of their most memorable College trips.

A Trip to Remember: The Galápagos After having had our luggage fumigated to prevent the spread of invasive species throughout the delicate ecosystem that is the Galápagos, we headed for Santa Cruz. The first sight of the turquoise sea was breathtaking, and, in true Galápagos style, the first obstacle we faced was a giant tortoise blocking the road. The boat trip across to Isabela Island created much excitement, but also much seasickness! Once off the boat, the first thing we noticed was a penguin floating in the water below, accompanied by some playful sea lions. On reaching our wooden bus, we saw the pathways scattered with marine iguanas, whose presence was familiar by the end of the trip. The next day saw us climbing the Sierra Negra volcano; a five hour trek which culminated in breathtaking views of the crater and lava fields. Snorkelling in the afternoon proved a welcome break from the heat of the Galapagian sun, and

Back on Santa Cruz, we visited the famous giant tortoises at the Charles Darwin Research Station and later saw them in the wild in the National Park. The visit to Tortuga Bay was a highlight due to the white sand and clear blue water; those who swam right to the edge of the bay encountered a Galápagos shark! More remarkable views were to be experienced on Bartolome Island, with more snorkelling. The iconic blue-footed booby bird also became a common sight. On San Cristobel we visited the Centro de Interpretacion where we learnt about some of the Galápagos history, and Mr Faulkner’s geological expertise proved invaluable in explaining the complexities of the volcanic islands. With their clear water, volcanic canyons proved to be one of the most beautiful places to swim. Giving us a privileged insight into our beautiful planet, the trip could not have been more successful.

Antonia Stuckey (L6, Q)

Mount Kilimanjaro

The final ascent to summit started just before midnight and finished at 6.10 with the group reaching the summit as dawn was breaking.

Over the summer College student Jamie Jamieson-Black (U6, H) successfully climbed Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.

During the expedition, the group had to withstand intense heat during the day, and nights so cold their tents frosted over, as well as the severe effects of the high altitude.

For the 12-day trek Jamie chose the extremely attractive but less popular Lemosho Route up the mountain.

we were lucky enough to encounter many turtles, inquisitive sea lions and stingrays.

College News Spring 2015

After the trek Jamie commented, “I learnt so much on the expedition. Not just how much planning is required, or how much perseverance is needed when it gets tough but the rewards that it gives you.”

Cheltenham College Photography Competition Cheltenham College Art Department, in collaboration with Red Savannah, an award-winning local travel company, launched what is intended to be an Annual College-wide Photography Competition, encouraging students to exhibit their photographic talent. 77 budding young photographers entered and 12 were shortlisted for the prize. These entries were

English Speaking Union Schools’ Mace Debate College was happy to host the first round of The English Speaking Union Schools’ Mace debating competition. Three motions were debated: 1. This House Would Require the NHS to Fund Alternative Medical Treatments (e.g. homeopathy) that whilst safe, have not been proven to confer medical benefits above placebo.

Model United Nations: United We Stand Against Ebola On a blustery and autumnal evening, students gathered for College’s first annual Model United Nations. Each House represented one country, with delegates taking to the floor to debate a resolution concerning the spread of Ebola to South Africa. The resolution was interrupted by an urgent message: Ebola had spread to Britain, and Britain’s moral degeneracy had led to a militant Christian group weaponising Ebola. The changing situation resulted in the debate of an amended resolution, arguing that an untested vaccine should be issued, London and Johannesburg should be enclosed, and that the terrorists should be eliminated. The motion passed successfully.

posted via the Red Savannah Facebook gallery page and the winning entry was chosen based on the number of ‘likes’ or ‘shares’. Following this online judging process, guests were invited by the Headmaster, Dr Alex Peterken to The White Gallery to view all entries. At a well-attended evening Dr Peterken thanked all those who had applied, the sponsor for their kind support and the Art Department for preparing a wonderful space in which to exhibit and showcase such fantastic photographic talent.

George Morgan-Grenville, CEO of Red Savannah, attended the evening and proudly announced that the winner of this year’s 2014 Photography Competition, and winner of a £350 voucher for photography equipment was Tara Wasdell (5th, W). Tara’s winning entry was taken on a recent exchange trip to Berlin. It featured a little girl in front of Kathe Kollwitz’s famous Pietà sculpture, Mother and her Dead Son, in the New Guardhouse, a memorial to the victims of war and tyranny.

2. This House Would Make Fines for Criminal and Civil Offences Proportionate to the Wealth of the Offender. 3. This House Would Introduce a One Hundred Percent Inheritance Tax. Happily, the College team of Katie Stanton (L6, A) and Antonia Stuckey (L6, Q) got through to the next round. Hosted, chaired and timed entirely by members of The Debating Society, Ashley Yu (L6, W), James Battishill (L6, NH), Harry Ferris (L6, NH) and AnneMarie Bowring (L6, Q), it was a wonderful evening, showcasing talent from a wide range of schools.

Some pupils immersed themselves in their national identity, others chose to ground their arguments in facts and rhetoric, but a high level of debate was achieved by all. Special mention should go to Charlie Brooksbank (L6, L), Emily Morton (L6, Ch), Abigail Aitken (3rd, Ch), Ben Schallamach (4th, BH), and Neil Hacker (L6, H) who were commended for their excellent contributions.

Katie Stanton (L6, A)

Just before Half Term, the Third Form took part in a Dragons' Den style competition. With expertise and support from GCHQ and local businessmen and women, the Third Form had to design, market, cost and prepare a presentation about their product; all within one morning. The remit was to design a product that would help businesses improve cyber security or a modern communication product. In the afternoon each group gave a twominute pitch to the judges with four teams going through to the final. The winning team of Georgia Mitchell (3rd, Q), Aryia Patel (3rd, H), Max Pemberton (3rd, H), Zac Robertson (3rd, NH) and Alexander Sharam (3rd, NH) won iTunes vouchers and, more importantly, they will represent College at GCHQ in the County competition in March. All of the teams received feedback from the Dragons and learnt important skills about presentation and teamwork.

College Victory in Inaugural Morgan Cup Cheltenham College celebrates a 9-7 victory over Radley College in the inaugural Morgan Cup. In September, the College Golf team travelled to Radley College to play in the inaugural Ryder Cup type event named the Morgan Cup, after Richard Morgan the former Headmaster of both schools. The day followed the pattern of the Ryder Cup but over 9 holes, starting with the Fourballs in the morning. College managed to secure a one-point advantage going into lunch, thanks to two exciting wins on the 9th green. After a lovely lunch, College went on to win the Foursomes 3-1 giving them a 3-point advantage going into the singles. In the singles, there were a number of tightly contested matches, with Radley winning the singles 4 1/2 to 3 1/2. However, this meant that Cheltenham College won the overall match 9-7. It was a fantastic day out in a wonderful setting and beautiful weather. The players on both sides felt that the event would be eagerly anticipated in the years to come. It was an honour to have Richard Morgan at the event to present the trophy to the winning Captain and to say a few words.

Gloucestershire Golf Union Order of Merit Harrison Ottley-Woodd (4th, L) has capped a fantastic year in which he has got down to scratch handicap, winning the Gloucestershire Golf Union Order of Merit at both Under 18 and Under 16 level and coming third in the West of England Under 16 boys. Harrison, still just 14 years of age, has been incredibly consistent throughout the year, and he finished off the season by winning the Ross-onWye Junior Open with a one over par score of 73, his third win in an Order of Merit qualifying event this season, and sixth top four finish in all. Harrison has also been invited back to continue working with the England South West Coaching Squad for the upcoming season 2014-2015.

Inspirational triathlete Nikki Bartlett motivates young athletes On Monday 17 November Cheltenham College hosted motivational speaker and triathlete Nikki Bartlett, as part of the Talented Athlete Programme, inspiring young athletes. Nikki is a local, South West athlete who was originally a competitive rower. In 2008 she was considered one of the highest ranked athletes in her age group and category and was fast tracked onto the GB Rowing World Class Start Initiative, a initiative to find Olympic Gold medalists of the future. Due to a serious rib injury in 2010 she was no longer able to continue rowing, but through

Badminton Success

Ka Man Ma (L6, Ch) won the Gloucestershire Women’s Adult Singles Competition in October; a great achievement. She also competed in the mixed doubles with coach Sol Griffith, where they lost after a gruelling 59 minute match. Nicholas Siu (4th, Xt) also did very well to reach the Semi-Finals of the Boys Under17s Competition.

College News Spring 2015

her rehabilitation she discovered triathlons and is now European Champion in her age bracket. With no previous experience in triathlons, her motto is ‘hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard’. Drewe Lacey, CEO of Lacey Thayers CIC and sponsor of Nikki, said: “Her dedication to elite performance as a triathlete should remind us all that achieving change and excellence is no easy option. As a local community interest company advising SMEs on community engagement and social enterprise, we are proud to sponsor Nikki as a Cheltenham girl who now leads the way in Europe as an outstanding athlete”.

Girls U16s Hockey Rowing Victory

The Girls U16s lost out in the knockout stages of the West finals on sudden death strokes to Clifton College. The girls came second in their pool and proceeded to the quarter finals with wins over Penryn (6-0), Whitecross (4-1) and Helston (2-0), only losing out to Millfield. Our congratulations to the girls on an excellent season.

The College Boat Club returned from Wycliffe Small Boats Head on a high following multiple victories on the Gloucester-Sharpness Canal.

Richard Jones, Head of Rowing said “This is a superb end to a term in which all rowers have shown great commitment to training and worked hard to improve their rowing. These results are a fantastic springboard for the Boat Club moving into the 2015 season which starts in earnest in January.”

To end a term of hard work and solid commitment to training, College came away with six victories across the whole boat club, coming home as both the fastest men’s and women’s fours of the day. Other highlights include further victories in the men’s and women’s pairs, with a special mention to Kieran Connolly (U6, Xt), Morgan Williams (U6, H), Lucy Wyatt (U6, W) and Georgina O’Reilly (U6, Ch) who all came away with three victories each.

NatWest Cup

The Junior Colts A progressed into the 4th round of the NatWest Cup against Dean Close after a thrilling encounter against Crypt Grammar School. For some it was their first taste of knock out rugby and a chance to dust the cobwebs off following the Half Term break. Playing on the rather wide College 1st XV pitch for the second time this season played into Cheltenham’s hands as the pace of Angus Thompson (3rd, NH) and the power of Josh Pimlott (4th, S) proved too much for Crypt. The Gloucester Academy combination of Angus Thompson and Tom Stanton (4th, H) in the centres worked really well and the power of the forward pack led by Max Taylor-Baggs (4th, BH) and Captain Charlie Boyce (4th, S) showcased some great running rugby. Crypt, however, were no pushover and throughout the match displayed a ‘never say die attitude’. As a result of their hard work some powerful running from their centre created a try for their winger in the second half. It didn’t however affect the overall scoreline with College securing a 57-7 win. On a sideline story, Nick Wood (pictured), current Gloucester 1st Team Prop, refereed the game as part of his professional training, watched by the keen eye of Chris White, National Referee Academy Manager.

Hockey Masterclass In partnership with Cheltenham Hockey Club, Maddie Hinch, who is the current Great Britain No. 1 Goalkeeper, ran a masterclass at College in November.

Gwyn Williams, Head of Hockey, commented “Being coached by Maddie and experiencing the drills she performs herself will no doubt raise the skill levels of our goalkeepers.”

With three College goalkeepers in attendance, this was a fabulous opportunity for the girls to listen to and learn from a player of this calibre. Maddie was instrumental in England’s Commonwealth Games victory over New Zealand when she saved three penalties allowing England to win the match 4-1 on penalties.

Gloucestershire Media Sports Awards 2014 Ollie Thorley (U6, BH) has been named the Rugby Player of the Year (Under 18) at the Gloucestershire Media Sports Awards 2014. England 1966 World Cup winner Sir Geoff Hurst and Gloucestershire super-hero Jamie McDonald presented the awards at a sold-out evening.

College Unplugged Imagine a room of musicians and music lovers alike, hidden from wild winter winds amongst a pile of bean bags, under purple-tinted lights whilst they sing and listen to raw, unadulterated talent. That was College Unplugged.

College Welcomes President of the New Zealand Rugby Union

College Unplugged was an acoustic music session held in November to celebrate the individual. Despite the casual ambience, a hum of energy flowed throughout the crowd. Whether

it be bittersweet memories during a rendition of “Depth Over Distance” or intrigue for the saxophonist who intertwined the dulcet tones of jazz with an electro beat, the crowd easily found it a night to remember. Cheltenham College’s music scene is undoubtedly filled to the brim with creative souls. As stated by a member of the audience, music is “sometimes the only way to understand others and be understood”. In this era of self-expression, it was incredible for young musicians to perform unafraid and unplugged.

Ashley Yu (L6, W)

In November, Cheltenham College had the pleasure of welcoming Ian MacRae, President of the New Zealand Rugby Union. Ian and his wife Marilyn were in Cheltenham for a dinner to commemorate the 125th anniversary of a match between Cheltenham and the All Blacks, before returning to London for the game between England and New Zealand. During the morning Ian and his wife, as well as representatives of Cheltenham Rugby Club, toured College and exchanged Rugby anecdotes with representatives of the current 1st XV; Headmaster, Dr Alex Peterken; Head of Rugby, Thomas Richardson; Rugby Professional, Olly Morgan and Director of Sport, Karl Cook. The trip was suggested by Old Cheltonian Dan Hearn, who was a member of the unbeaten 1957 XV and went on to be capped by England. However, whilst playing for the Midland and Home counties against the touring All Blacks in 1967, his life changed forever when he mistimed a tackle on Ian MacRae, the New Zealand centre. The tackle dislocated Dan’s neck and damaged his spinal cord, leaving him paralysed. Following the accident, Dan, who was a teacher at Haileybury, returned to the school, a mere ten months after the accident, and continued teaching and coaching the 1st XV from his wheelchair. Malcolm Sloan, Old Cheltonian Administrator and friend of Dan commented on this remarkable story of sporting friendship: “Through all his travails, Dan has never lost the sparkle in his eyes or his passion for rugby. It is testament to Dan’s strength of character and his joie de vivre, that Dan and Ian became firm friends visiting each other in their respective homes in Ireland and New Zealand. Ian continues to be humbled by Dan’s fighting spirit and eternal optimism. When he met Dan after the accident he said Dan made it easy for him and told him there was no blame on him. Ian said they were the best words he had heard in some time.”

College News Spring 2015

Ashmead & Leconfield Play Leconfield and Ashmead joined forces in October to perform, ‘The Happiest Days of Our Lives’, which focused on two single sex public boarding schools being forced together due to war. The play featured staff from both schools who disagreed on dual sex education but were required to manage the students and adapt to an unusual environment.

The idea came from both House parents who wanted a relaxed and comedic House play, with lots of parts of different sizes to include as many pupils as possible. The feedback from the play was great, as pauses in performance were needed to allow for laughter from the audience. Many staff and pupils enjoyed the ability to relate to College life as many College connections were made within the play for the purpose of its chosen audience. The play couldn’t have been as successful as it was without the amazing direction of Mrs Cutts, Ms McBride, Mr Reid, Mr Reader and Miss Pryce who were instrumental in the running, lighting, directing and set design, all of which culminated in a really enjoyable event for all.

Rebecca Perry (U6, A)

Anti-Bullying Week #SaySomething During the week commencing 17 November, College, like many other schools and organisations, supported National Anti-Bullying week. College raised awareness by hosting a series of talks, lectures and seminars, as well as offering cupcakes with the branded message #SaySomething – a campaign initiated by Caitlin Christopher (U6, A).

Handel’s Messiah On Saturday 29 November the Choral Society, together with the Chapel Choir came together in the College Chapel for a rousing performance of Handel’s Messiah to celebrate the start of Advent. An invited orchestra of professional players, together with senior pupil instrumentalists provided the accompaniment. Solos were sung by: Frederick Foster (5th, NH), Caitlin

Christopher (U6, A), Georgina O’Reilly (U6, Ch), William Hamilton (4th, S), Freddie White (4th, BH), Fergus McNeile (5th, NH), Verity Peterken (3rd, W), Jacqueline NussbaumLapping (L6, A), Ankita Mediratta (5th, W), Lois Short (4th, Q), Pippa McKerron (L6, Ch), Guy Beynon (L6, Xt), Leonora McCaldin (L6, A) , Matthew Finan (U6, S) and Amy Hinc (U6, W). The concert was well received by a large audience who gave the young soloists a standing ovation. Set to become an annual event, we hope that the College Messiah will be even more popular next year and part of the traditional run up to Christmas and the end of term.

“Our anti-bullying week has seen the launch of a pupil initiative: #SaySomething. This idea was developed by our pupil in charge of anti-bullying and is aimed at encouraging all pupils and staff to say something whenever they see bullying type behaviour. There have been talks to the whole College, and individual year groups about the importance of saying something. It is easier to deal with the little things than allowing issues to fester. Cheltenham College prides itself on the close community that we have, and in that respect being a school where bullying is seen by everyone as totally inappropriate is crucial to maintaining that close community. I am particularly proud that the pupils have taken the responsibility for this initiative.”

Crispin Dawson, Deputy Head (Pastoral) www.cheltenhamcollege.org/SaySomething

Fauré’s Requiem

On Sunday 9 November as part of Cheltenham College’s Remembrance Sunday commemorations, the Cheltenham College Chapel Choir, under the direction of David McKee, Director of Music, performed Fauré’s Requiem and other music for Remembrance.

The programme included: The Souls of the Righteous - Geraint Lewis For the Fallen - Mark Blatchly Crossing the Bar - Sir Charles H H Parry For the Fallen - Douglas Guest The soloists for the Requiem were Frederick Foster (5th, NH), Taya Sellers (L6, W) and Louis Taylor-Baggs (U6, S). Luke Knudsen (5th, NH) performed the trumpet solo and Christine Cheng (U6, W) performed the violin solos.

Artist-in-residence: Ahoy There! Linn O’Carroll Impressive completion Cheltenham College has been very privileged to host the artist and educator Linn O’Carroll as Artist-in-residence, which has proved to be an inspirational and informative experience for both staff and students alike. Reflecting her love for the natural world, O’Carroll focuses on presenting landscapes in various different ways, from man’s engagement with the natural environment, to how he leaves traces on the landscape. She is a lover of discarded objects, which she collects as she goes on walks. Sharing her interesting and insightful approaches to art, revealing what life as an artist is like and discussing the methods she uses and her inner journey, O’Carroll has been hugely beneficial to a number of Upper College students who have chosen to continue studying Art at A Level. At College, O’Carroll provoked creative and original thought and engagement with new ideas, the culmination of which could be seen in the exhibition which was undertaken in partnership with Sixth Form students in our ‘White Gallery’. Her individual style, use of mixed media and printmaking truly made the exhibition one to remember. More information about Linn O’Carroll and her work can be found on her website www.linnocarroll.com or on her Facebook page.

Isabelle Winstanley (L6, Q) and Lucy Hall (5th, Ch)

of the Day Skipper Qualification

Over the course of Summer 2012, two College boys, Jack Forrester (U6, BH) and Eoin Hughes (U6, S), who were in the Fifth Form at the time, undertook a course to acquire the prestigious Day Skipper Qualification. This qualification certifies that those who receive it are able to captain a yacht. Rarely achieved at such a young age, the Skipper qualification is recognised both nationally and internationally and is seen as proof of a high level of nautical competence.

Although well worth it, the Day Skipper qualification did not come without its challenges. Both boys are in agreement: the most difficult aspect of the Day Skipper was locating an unlit buoy in Portsmouth Harbour - at night! Jack describes how the challenge of doing this was increased by the requirement for single-handed sailing, and according to Eoin, any minor error could have led to the boat running aground or into a hazard. At College, we are immensely proud of the achievements of both boys, and would like to wish them every success in the future.

Isabelle Winstanley (L6, Q)

Now working towards an even more impressive Yachtmaster qualification, which is inspired by their previous successes, I caught up with Eoin and Jack to talk about the Day Skipper Qualification. When asked what the qualification enables you to do, Jack explained: “the Day Skipper allows anyone who gains it to act as a skipper on a yacht, and also to rent yachts from companies.” At College, we offer Naval CCF as an activity. Run by former Navy member Mrs Harrison, CCF helped the boys to gain the Day Skipper. The boys needed to sail a minimum of 200 nautical miles and time with the CCF certainly helped. Eoin also spent time teaching junior College cadets the fundamental elements of nautical navigation, which in turn, cemented his own knowledge of seamanship in general. Speaking to Jack he animatedly discussed how qualifying as a Day Skipper has allowed him to work towards the Yachtmaster qualification, a further qualification of an even more prestigious kind. Eoin also commented on the usefulness of the Day Skipper qualification, saying “it had aided his completion of the Duke of Edinburgh award.”

The Big Draw

Throughout October, Cheltenham College Art Department took part in ‘The Big Draw’, a national incentive by galleries and community centres to get the local community drawing. After lining the floors and walls of one of the College’s art galleries with paper, the department simply opened its doors to the whole school and stood back to see what would be produced! This proved to be a real success, with lots of classes (including several from Cheltenham Prep, right down to our 3 year olds in Kingfishers!) coming in to draw all over the space provided. The results were quite fantastic and it was great to see so many people get involved in art - for some, perhaps for the first time in many years!

College News Spring 2015

For more information on the world’s biggest celebration of drawing, please visit: www.campaignfordrawing.org/bigdraw

Gloucestershire Nightstop

Cheltenham College Prefects raised money and awareness for College’s chosen charity this year, Gloucestershire Nightstop. The charity works directly with single, young homeless people aged 16-25 across the county of Gloucestershire to help them break free from homelessness at the earliest opportunity. Prefects all undertook a 24 hour run and cycle on 27-28 September. Each prefect ran or cycled for a total of 2 hours, with many shifts taking place throughout the night. In addition many Upper College students slept rough, with only cardboard as shelter, to highlight the plight of young homeless people in Gloucestershire and help to raise funds for Gloucestershire Nightstop. Janet Ellard, from the charity spoke to the entire College community recently in Chapel to explain about the work of Gloucestershire Nightstop. The charity arranges temporary and emergency accommodation for young homeless people in the homes of trained and approved individuals (or hosts): it is a community response to the issue.

Issy Dickson (U6, A) commented “We are proud to be supporting this wonderful charity throughout the year, and are excited to kick things off this weekend with the Prefect 24 hour challenge.”

the charity to continue its wonderful work in helping the less fortunate and some of the most vulnerable in society. With your support we can help these young people break free from the cycle of homelessness.”

Lucy Gray (U6, A) added “We are aiming to raise as much money as possible for our chosen charity. The majority of the money raised will go towards enabling

Cheltenham College supports the Langa Township Pre-School Trust (LTPT) in South Africa. When Cheltenham College set off on their rugby tour to South Africa in August 2014, they had one very special stop to make that had nothing to do with rugby - to the Dalukhanyo Pre-School in Langa Township. Earlier in the year the boys involved in the tour along with Thomas Richardson, Head

of Rugby, had decided that they wanted to raise funds for the Langa Township Pre-School Trust (LTPT) in Cape Town.

During the year the boys held various fundraising events, culminating in a Dinner Dance at College in May where the boys worked as waiters for the evening and organised a very successful auction.

When the boys visited the Township in August they presented the LTPT with a cheque for £4,000, money that will be used to support building development at Dalukhanyo Pre-School after a recent fire destroyed one of the school buildings. For more information about the work of the LTPT please visit their website: www.ltpt.org.uk

Update from the Development office The Science faculty was completely refurbished last Summer due to generous support and over the next few years we will continue to improve College’s sporting facilities.

The charity supported by Westal this year is Ibba Girls’ School in South Sudan. It is the first girls’ school in this country and it is very important to support it, as girls’ education is very rare in South Sudan. As a member of Westal I am pleased to support such a cause.

Current plans include a new boathouse and the refurbishment of both AstroTurfs. We are also looking at extending the Sports Centre to provide enhanced changing and fitness facilities as well as a developing a café area. The match funding pledge of £500,000 received last Spring has enabled us to match all new gifts for the Science building and we are delighted that this offer remains open for our future projects. We are always keen to show you some of the projects that have recently been completed such as the CCF extension, the new Girls’ boarding house, Westal, and the refurbished Science

Westal Charity Candle and Bake Sale

building. Please call the Development Director, Christiane Dickens on 01242 706815 or email c.dickens@cheltenhamcollege.org if you would like to get involved or to arrange a tour.

Christmas Jumper Day

To raise money for this charity we organised bake sales that took place during the rugby and hockey tournaments on Saturday 29 November. The cakes were sold in front of Westal and around the rugby pitches, which attracted many generous donors! The Sunday before, the whole house supported the charity by making 100 blue, vanilla scented candles. Mrs O’Bryan, our Housemistress, was very pleased to see that the whole house worked together to achieve this. We all had a little fun and thanks to the enthusiasm of all the Westal girls we raised over £500. If you would like to help support this charity there are still candles left to buy. We will also be organising a Barn Dance later this year to raise more money for Ibba Girls’ School, to continue supporting the charity as much as possible. So if you fancy some music, dance, and good laughs then come and join us! Further information will be available soon.

On Monday 8 December, College took part in Save the Children’s national initiative, Christmas Jumper Day. Students wore a variety of festive-themed jumpers, featuring snowflakes, tinsel and turkeys and each donated £1 or more to charity. A great festive fun day to end the term!

Silvia Peralta Martin (U6, W)

Recommended Reads - Far Rockaway Age range 11+, but can be enjoyed by all.

Cat Manno nearly dies… she is involved in an accident with a truck, and only just survives because her grandfather pushes her out of the way. He is hurt too and the two of them are fighting for their lives in a hospital. But Cat and her grandfather are together somewhere else as well. Cat wakes up in a forest and sees her grandfather being attacked by Huron.

Before she can run headlong to rescue him, and thereby also be in danger herself, the great Chingachgook stops her. From this moment Cat enters a world peopled by characters from stories loved by her grandfather. He has shared these stories with her over the years and now she must trust in the stories to find a way home. This is a wonderful book, full of adventure, and all about the power of story and strength of character.

Ginette Doyle, College Librarian Chatfeild-Roberts Library

Dates of Spring Term 2015

Note from the Editor

Start of Term: 20.00, Sunday 11 January Half Term: 11.00, Friday 13 February – 18.00, Sunday 22 February End of Term: 11.00, Friday 20 March

Cheltenham College, Bath Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL53 7LD @cheltcollege

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As always, I would like to thank all members of the Common Room and College pupils for their contributions, Mr Andy Banks (Photography) and the Young Journalist group for their assistance, led by Miss Jane Brodigan.

Andrew Hussey, Editor T: 01242 265 600 E: A.Hussey@cheltenhamcollege.org www.cheltenhamcollege.org