The Churcherian 2020
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The Churcherian 2020
Acknowledgements Editor
D Greenall
Design
G M Hadlow
Cover artwork by: Emily Nellist
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Headmaster’s Foreword
72
German
8
Junior School
74
Spanish
10
Nursery
76
Drama
12
Reception
78
Music
16
Year 1
82
Biology
18
Year 2
84
Chemistry
20
Year 3
86
Physics
22
Year 4
88
Computing
24
Year 5
90
Design & Technology
26
Year 6
92
EPQ
28
Junior Music
94
Curriculum Support
30
Junior Sport
95
Sports Science
34
Parents’ Association
96
STEAM
36
Collingwood
98
Rugby
38
Drake
102
Girls’ Hockey
40
Grenville
108
Boys’ Hockey
42
Nelson
112
Netball
44
Rodney
114
Cricket
46
Sixth Form
116
Athletics & Cross Country
48
Fifth Form
117
Squash
50
Art & Design
118
Swimming & Waterpolo
54
English
120
OSCA
56
Classics
122
Senior Adventure Club
58
Economics
124
CCF
59
Business
128
Devizes to Westminster
60
Geography
130
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
62
History
132
Ten Tors
64
Politics
134
Charity
65
Psychology
138
Development Office
66
Religion & Philosophy
142
Staff Departures
68
Mathematics
146
Prizewinners 2020
70
French
158
Examination Results
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Simon Williams
Headmaster’s Foreword
Until recently I had always associated 2020 with a measure of perfect vision, or the suggestion of an ideal scenario, but, following this year, the expression will forever have a very different connotation. When the academic year 2019-20 began no one could, or would, have predicted how it would end, or the remarkable lengths to which people have gone to make things work under very trying and, in many cases, tragic circumstances. In a year when the horrors of racial injustice and discrimination have also come to the fore, it seems entirely appropriate to quote Martin Luther King Jr when he said: “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy. Nothing worthwhile is easy. Your ability to overcome unfavourable situations will provide you with time to demonstrate your true strength and determination for success.
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Always set your standards high, your greatest achievements lie within the infinite feats you achieve in your life.” Whether it is the ‘Black Lives Matter’ movement or the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an enormous challenge for all this year and, when it comes to ultimate measure, the students at Churcher’s certainly have much to their credit. The subsequent pages of this Churcherian magazine will evidence how and where Churcherians have ‘stepped-up-to-the-plate’ but, as a simple foreword to this chronicle of an academic year, it is worth noting how stoic all have been; how inventive, adaptable and inspirational both adults and children associated with the school have proved to be. With almost no notice the school closed with one week left of the Spring Term. The school went from 90% analogue to 100% digital overnight. In ordinary times, introducing a brand
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new, untried IT system across a large organisation brings months of chaos and frustration, but, somehow, we transformed the school’s ‘output’ and the children adapted their ‘input’ in a matter of weeks. Remote learning was a challenge for all, but one that was grasped with energy and enthusiasm. By all accounts academic progress for if not all, then the vast majority here, did not slow at the tail end of the year; it may have even been enhanced by the lack of distraction, but even the loss of public exams did not dissuade or dishearten. The Fifth Year, with their ‘Bridging Courses’ instead of GCSE exams, and the Upper Sixth, with their ‘Churcher’s to Campus’ challenge certainly rose to the occasion, embracing their new courses, created overnight by need, not design, with enthusiasm and determination. When it came to exam results the Fifth Year and Upper Sixth also needed to show enthusiasm, determination
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and stoicism in remarkable measure as the Government and its quango, Ofqual, allowed the calculation of grades process to become a complete ‘Horlicks’. There will be a great deal of debate about the calculation process and the validity of the GCSE and A Level grades which were awarded this summer, but the bottom line is that, almost without exception, the students here worked like absolute Trojans over the last two years, providing evidence aplenty of their true worth in test scenarios; they were truly deserving of reward and recognition for all their efforts and ability. I, for one, was very happy to applaud them resoundingly and without caveat, for their achievements and the remarkable stoicism they showed during the troubled times. For the record, the exam results are opposite. It is inevitable that they are more buoyant than other years because they don’t take into account those souls who would have had a wobble on the day, who weren’t able to show their best in the exam hall for whatever reason. These results do reflect the cohort at their best based on the evidence up to the point in which the exams were cancelled, but that makes the outcome no less deserving. Outside the classroom as well as inside, there was amazing adaptability; lockdown and social distancing did not prevent sport, adventurous activities, music, drama or art from going ahead. In many years to come, when future generations reflect back on what was achieved in 2020, hopefully they will still have access to online evidence;
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maybe YouTube will still exist in 50 years’ time and the links from our website will still take the reader to the ‘Remote Orchestra’ and its rendition of the Pirates of the Caribbean or the ‘Remote Choir’ and The Lion King being sung from every corner of Hampshire. If there is a way to do it then the genius staff and students at Churcher’s will find a way to do it! There will inevitably be much self-reflection as we eventually ease ourselves out of the pandemic. Locally, nationally, globally, many will consider what could have been, should have been done, but one thing is clear for those at Churcher’s College, the academic year 2019-20 may have been very different from those that have
gone before, or may be those yet to come, but what has been very much the same was the energy, enthusiasm, inspiration, innovation, ambition and sheer brilliance with which as much as was possible was squeezed out of as much as possible. The Churcher’s ship sailed on despite the maelstrom around it and I leave you to read on and find out a little more about what was done and how it was done.
A Level Cumulative Percentage A Level
Total No. Exams
A*
A*-A
A-B
A-C
A-D
A-E
2014
313
10.7
46.6
76.2
92.8
98.7
99.7
2015
293
14.2
52.9
80.4
93.5
97.3
99.3
2016
350
20.7
58.1
83.3
96.4
98.1
99.7
2017
345
18.3
45.4
77.1
92.2
98.3
100.0
2018
307
21.5
54.8
87.4
97.7
100.0
100.0
2019
348
25.8
61.4
85.2
96.3
98.6
100.0
2020
412
36.0
70.9
93.7
99.5
100.0
100.0
GCSE Cumulative Percentage GCSE
Total No. A* Exams
2014
1152
A*-A 28.6
A-B
66.7
89.6
A-C
A-D
97.7
100.0
2015
1235
27.4
60.8
87.3
97.5
100.0
2016
1246
31.4
64.8
88.1
98.2
100.0
2017
1209
32.6
63.5
91.1
98.8
100.0
2018
1348
9
9-8
9-7
9-6
9-5
9-4
9-3
22.0
43.5
65.7
83.9
94.2
98.5
98.6
2019
1212
25.3
49.3
70.8
88.7
98.1
99.8
99.8
2020
1345
35.5
62.5
85.0
95.7
99.6
100.0
100.0
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EPQ FLYING START PROGRAMME 2020
• Students choose five of their most likely A Level subjects • Students assigned to Bridging Course sets in Firefly, each with an allocated teacher • Teachers set and assess work which builds skills and knowledge to give students a head start on their A Levels • Students who fulfil the requirements of all five courses will be given a certificate of achievement
CHURCHER’S TO CAMPUS
Get a head start with your EPQ before Sixth Form starts, helping you to narrow down your area of study towards a suitable EPQ title, as well as compile a list of suitable resources to research further.
• Five week course designed build knowledge and skills for university
to
for
3-WEEK PROGRAMME: 1 – 19 JUNE STRAND 1 Weekly EPQ guidance and skills seminars with Mr Hill
• Tailored to each individual student’s needs and aspirations • Students allocated a Subject Mentor to guide them through Strand 1
STRAND 2 Subject research
• Personal Tutor advises on Strand 2 and oversees the student’s overall progress
STRAND 3 EPQ MOOC
• Students record all progress on Unifrog
•
Teacher advice and guidance available throughout
STRAND 1
STRAND 2
•
Useful resources for research provided
Enrichment/extension/consolidation tasks set and assessed weekly/fortnightly.
MOOC or similar artefact (eg original script or musical composition, short story, extended inquiry or investigation)
•
Start working towards a highly valued qualification
Style of task will depend on the subject (online lectures, podcasts, group discussions/seminars on Teams, topic review, reading list etc.)
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Junior School What a ‘sensational’ yet fantastic voyage we have had at CCJS&N this year, full of exciting adventures for all members of our community. It will be a memorable year for plenty of reasons, least of all because we all experienced living with a pandemic. The way in which each and every community member showed amazing resolve not only in lockdown, but in how the Junior School and Nursery reopened in June, is a testament to the strength we have here. It is inevitable that 2019-20 will be defined by Covid-19; however, let’s cast our minds back to life before March. It is to be celebrated and remembered in many other ways and with common themes representing the whole year: fun, learning, kindness, positive experiences, collaboration and laughter. There is no doubt that this academic year has been a ‘sensational’, readall-about-it year. Much of the credit must go to the extraordinary people who look after the children at school and who make this part of Churcher’s College such an inspirational place. Every single member of staff worked even harder than usual to create such stimulating virtual learning spaces and environments for the children and prepare exciting and innovative lessons that inspire the children to learn.
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Since March, the teachers not only adapted to home working but changed their style and methods of teaching, taught through a screen, and prepared the most amazing lessons on video that I have no doubt could have been shown on TV. Then the school partially reopened following the Government’s advice in June and some teachers continued their inspirational work online while, others had to change their methodology again for a third time. Again, the common theme for both staff returning and the children coming back was their willing adaptation to the changes. There will be plenty of fond memories as the children look back on an unforgettable year, no matter what age they are. From the youngest Pussycats to the Year 6 pupils, and not forgetting our very strong parent body, ultimately what has drawn everyone together during this academic year has been everyone’s love of Churcher’s College. United we are in the appreciation of life as we knew it and in knowing that the ship only sails when everyone pulls together. Here’s to another incredible voyage! Ffion Robinson Head of Junior School and Nursery
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Nursery We have had another very busy year in the Nursery! In the Autumn Term we welcomed in all our new Owls and Pussycats. Everyone settled into the new routines really quickly. With so many activities to choose from, the children spent many happy days building, cutting, splashing and playing. The term ended on the high of the very first Early Years Christmas production. The Nursery and Reception children joined together to perform to the parents, I was very proud of all the little ‘angels’ who sang beautifully! The Spring Term
brought the festival of Chinese New Year; the children joined in with a fabulous and colourful Chinese New Year workshop. We set up a Chinese restaurant in the Nursery and tried eating noodles with chopsticks, which was tricky but great fun! Although disrupted, the children who did return to Nursery in the Summer Term enjoyed some beautiful sunshine. We spent the days outside exploring, looking closely at nature and cooling off in the water.
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Reception Our year in Reception has whizzed by in a complete blur and what a strange year it has been for all! December saw the introduction of the first Early Years nativity which proved to be a great success. Long may this new tradition continue. The children were very fortunate to get to visit Pizza Express once again this year as part of their Food and Healthy Eating topic. This time we visited the Haslemere branch and learnt all about food hygiene and preparation before being set loose with our own pieces of dough to attempt to make our own. With lockdown beginning in March, the children did a fantastic job of continuing their education at home, with daily ‘meets’ with their classmates and teachers.
and themes throughout the year, both in school and then from home. Finally, we returned to the ‘new normal’ as one of the first classes back at school at the beginning of June. Our two bubbles ran alongside each other and gave the children a chance to show off their new skills from home learning back with their peers. The ability the children showed at being able to adapt to these changes was nothing short of remarkable and it was a fantastic end to the year to get to be together again.
“it was a fantastic end to the year to get to be together again”
The children have come on in leaps and bounds this year which, given the circumstances, has been an incredible achievement. Reading, in particular, has been a great strength and it has been wonderful to see the children’s confidence and independence grow.
Creativity is always encouraged. The children explored colours and shapes, construction, modelling, painting and drawing through a variety of topics
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Chloe Willing
Daniel Davies
Lucy Maier
Kitty Ivanov
Sophia Webb
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Verity Oliver-Weigand
Evelyn Forbes
Emily Bridger
Sophia Jaggard
Luke Hall
Will Tupper
Year 4 Cubist Oil Pastels
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Year 1
September 2019 seems a very long time ago now! The children have grown so much, lost some of their ‘baby teeth’ and adapted to a new style of school with amazing resilience. This year’s overwhelming source of fun and joy, according to Year 1, was playing outside with the water trays and using the shark and crocodile water guns! Playing on our amazing pirate ship, which turned into numerous other imaginary dens, was another source of fabulous play and adventurous activities. So too was the sandpit, which as well as digging down for what seemed like miles, also became a stage to perform impromptu playtime concerts and a ‘home base’ for hide and seek. We enjoyed a lovely trip to the toy museum at Guildford where the children stepped back in time, dressing in the style of Victorian children, being taught in the school room with wooden desks and slates and playing with a variety of toys from a bygone era.
working so hard to learn their lines, sing with such gusto and perform the story of the birth of Baby Jesus with genuine joy and excitement. We managed to fit in the majority of our swimming lessons at the College pool, which was greatly enjoyed by the children. It was lovely to see the growing confidence of the children and how they learnt to swim longer distances with improved technical skill. And then lockdown hit! The way in which the children embraced and coped with home learning was so impressive considering their age. We enjoyed daily story times and chats via the internet, plus working through the day’s tasks. There were also individual ‘meets’ and reading sessions and the children loved to chat and wave to each other on screen! Their work was uploaded to Seesaw, together with photos and videos of their other activities undertaken at home.
Our Infant Nativity was a lovely end to the Autumn Term, with the children
As the children leave me and move to Year 2, I would like to thank them for their kindness, friendship and sense of fun.
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“the children loved to chat and wave to each other on screen�
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“Year 2 are ready for any challenges that might come along and will take them all confidently in their stride”
Year 2
Year 2 has had a very busy and productive year at the top of the Infant School. In Autumn, we had a windy walk to Liphook train station and doctor’s surgery as part of a topic on map-making. We looked at all the local landmarks we could use for a map and even got the chance to meet some of the people who work in the town, including the lovely bakers who gave us some treats for the end of our walk. Upon our return, we retraced our steps using Google Maps and then made amazing maps with labels and keys, as well as enjoying some delicious cakes and doughnuts! Our history topics included Remembrance Day, so Year 2 visited Bramshott Church to see the War memorial and churchyard. Everyone was fascinated by the monuments and memorials to the 300 Canadian soldiers who died during or shortly after the First World War. In the Spring Term, Year 2 learned about Florence Nightingale as we continued to study the past and compare and contrast it with our lives. We had great fun sharing information about Florence’s life
with the school and our parents in a class assembly, particularly enjoying dressing up and performing the roles of the nurses and soldiers in the Crimean War. As part of a topic on materials, we enjoyed a wonderfully busy day at the Winchester Science Centre. We started with a visit to the Planetarium and looked at the different constellations, the planets, and explored the universe, flying around through space with help from our guide. We then learned about matter and saw some exceptions to the normal rules creating slime. The children then explored the rest of the centre, trying on space suits, competing in running races, and launching parachutes!
with St Ives. We then compared our holidays with those in the Victorian times, writing diaries as Victorian holidaymakers and menus for the cafés that might have been. It was wonderful to see so many children return at the end of the term to complete the year and the Infants, albeit in our new-found bubbles. Year 3 is always a new adventure as the children move up into the Juniors. This year lockdown has shown that Year 2 are ready for any challenges that might come along and will take them all confidently in their stride.
The Summer Term brought about a unique learning experience as we spent much of it learning from home and communicating at a distance and through virtual meetings. As they continued to develop their writing and maths skills, the children impressed throughout with their growing independence and creativity. With virtual tours replacing real life school trips we learned about seaside holiday locations and all fell in love
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Year 3 We welcomed our wonderful new Year 3 with a fantastic day of teambuilding fun and activities in the outdoor classroom. Everyone enjoyed working with their new housemates and couldn’t wait to be in the Middle School together. The term was filled with so many highlights from a tour of an ancient farm at Butser to learn about Roman villas and lifestyles to a fantastic theatre production at the Minerva in Chichester of what became a much loved story, The Butterfly Lion, by Michael Morpurgo. Finally, a trip to the pantomime at the King’s Theatre in Southsea to enjoy their amazing production of Aladdin topped off a very successful and productive term of hard work and learning. Writing to our favourite authors was a wonderful experience especially as so many received responses, including Alexander McCall Smith who wrote Freddie Mole, the Lion Tamer. How thrilling it was! Everyone loved learning about forces and magnets in Science and developed some real strength in all our investigations. The children loved learning to swim at the Senior School and couldn’t have been more excited to get to the new year for their gala.
in Great Britain and then did a whistle stop tour around the world, culminating in a fantastic project to create some impressive models and collages. We enjoyed experiments and demonstrations to see how mountains were formed. Everyone loved all our work on Roald Dahl’s Fantastic Mr Fox, especially the story writing and collage making together. We enjoyed many more of Roald Dahl’s stories too, with some children claiming to have read them all! We loved learning about light and shadow in Science this term, even working in the dark at times to investigate some theories. When it was time to begin our next topic of Roots and Shoots we were grateful for our brand new greenhouse to help with investigations. It was also time to enjoy meeting schools on the rugby and hockey pitches in team matches. Earth Song came to visit for an amazing Chinese New Year workshop. The lion dance was so impressive and the drums were very loud! We managed to see 3M’s wonderful assembly on recycling before lockdown and 3P shared their happiness video with the whole school joining in.
In the Spring Term, we launched our mountains topic in Geography and began learning about mountains
And then lockdown began, and didn’t they do well? We can’t quite believe almost an entire term of home learning took place this year.
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The children embraced it all with such resilience and motivation. So much learning happening and the opportunity to meet online and share our experiences of these strange times. Highlights of this term were: artful flowers, nature projects, Sports Day, play writing, creating stories and non-fiction work. The children worked hard on the ocean project competition, researching and creating some imaginative stories and fantastic models using all sorts of materials with great resourcefulness and learning about marine biology and Captain James Cook’s adventures to discover the Great Barrier Reef. Guided reading time to enjoy The Sheep-pig by Dick King-Smith was a highlight in our Google Meet groups. We were thrilled to see so many in our Year 3 bubbles for the last few weeks of term, a welcome chance to see our friends and teachers and say congratulations, good luck and farewell to Year 6.
“writing to our favourite authors was a wonderful experience especially as so many received responses�
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“they relished the idea of an evening performance to a very appreciative audience . . . and then lockdown happened!”
Year 4 What a year we’ve had in Year 4! Bustling with activity and energy, the children embarked on a huge range of activities from concerts to musicals, theatre trips to a swimming gala, sports matches and tournaments. Amazing learning, investigations and even documentary making has taken place throughout the year. Add to that opportunities in the school grounds and class-based work and you will realise that this year has been incredibly successful and productive. The Spring Term saw lots of learning taking place in the shape of VIPERS – a comprehension scheme which has enhanced the children’s reading skills. Added to this, the children have been writing ‘Super Sentences’ to develop their creative writing. Earthsong visited us in early February, and we spent a morning in a wonderfully vibrant interactive workshop which saw children hear and experience a celebration of Chinese culture.
singing and acting were outstanding! Every one of them relished the idea of an evening performance to a very appreciative audience . . . and then lockdown happened! Sadly, our play had to be cancelled and, of course, we were all very disappointed. All those lines and songs learned, all those beautiful costumes, all that anticipation and butterflies in the tummy, but no final extravaganza on stage. Throughout the Autumn and Spring Terms, Year 4 were documenting a lot of their work and activities on Seesaw. As a result of this they were able to continue to ‘post’ their activities during lockdown so that their teachers and families could share what they had been learning. This was an exciting and innovative addition to their learning journey and proved extremely useful!
The weeks flew by and suddenly we were in the midst of rehearsals for ‘Crikey, Moses!’. The children loved working on the rehearsals and their
A new programme of learning that Year 4 have undertaken in English has been a study of Shakespeare’s ‘The Tempest’. It led to lots of exciting writing, which the children have thoroughly enjoyed composing and which we have delighted in reading!
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We were very lucky to get back into school for the last two weeks of the year. Although we were separated in our bubbles, we were able to wave across the field and check that our friends were all fit and healthy. It has been an incredibly strange experience and one which we are sure the children will carry memories of for a very long time.
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Year 5 This year’s cohort of Year 5s have impressed from the start, particularly for their abilities to work in teams, all working cohesively together and just being a thoroughly lovely lot of children, eager to learn and do the right thing. This shone through at Cobnor at the beginning of the Autumn Term, whilst tackling the challenges of outdoor learning. There were many highlights for the children: sailing their own boat, building and racing rafts, canoeing and the challenging climbing wall. Two nights away from home can sometimes be a bit daunting, but there was no evidence of this and just weary, a little grubby, but very smiley faces on return! Both classes visited Selborne Study Centre to support their science topic on plant life cycles. Exploring plant life, the children undertook flower dissections and used microscopes to observe plants in beautiful detail. They also hypothesised the ideal growing environment for ferns and ascended the zigzag path to test their hypothesis. Following the scientific theme, later in the term, the children continued the Year 5 tradition of going to the Senior School and becoming ‘Science Gophers’ for the afternoon. In their goggles and lab coats they all looked very much the part and loved the opportunity to take part in ‘real-life
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Science’. There was much fizzing and bubbling and going up in a puff of smoke! Luckily the same number of children were sent home as had attended at the beginning! The Spring Term brought other wonderful learning opportunities and one of these was linked to the children’s History topic on the Tudors. A theatre troupe of five actors from ‘The Young Shakespeare Company’ brought a touch of summer to January in the guise of ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’. The children participated in every act with all taking a role of some sort. It brought the story to life and everyone left the studio buzzing with excitement. There could not have been a better way to introduce Shakespeare to young people. In Music the children had communal rehearsals for the Petersfield Music Festival, travelling to three different venues to meet with all the other schools involved. Despite the final concert sadly being cancelled due to the impending lockdown, the children gained a greater understanding of choral singing and practised a breadth of songs from classical through to Louis Armstrong. As the Spring Term drew to a close and school was forced to close, the children fully embraced their home learning experience. The teachers were impressed by their efforts from home and topics like space in Science
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and the Aztecs in History were being covered remotely via Firefly and Seesaw, as well as continuing with their Maths and English in live lessons and gaining a sense of togetherness in live class ‘meets’. It was a wonderful reward for all that hard work and resilience working from home when Year 5 were able to return to school for the last three weeks of term. Working in three year group bubbles allowed the children to forge new friendships with their peers and experience different teachers. They spent the mornings studying core subjects like English, Maths and Verbal Reasoning and the afternoons covering more specialist teaching subjects like Art, French and Computing. The afternoons gave the children the opportunity to explore their imaginations during ‘creativity time’. This culminated in two afternoon performances and presentations across the bubbles. The time back at school enabled the year to close on a high of enthusiasm and smiles and although it is not something to be repeated, the appreciation of being in school after such a long time away was clearly visible across the year group. Albeit a different and challenging year, the Year 5s have had much success academically and personally and left the year ready for a well-deserved break and fully prepared to face the next adventure, Year 6!
“three year group bubbles allowed the children to forge new friendships with their peers and experience different teachers�
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Year 6 Year 6 enjoyed an unusual yet ultimately fulfilling end to their time at the Junior School as they took on the responsibilities of representing and leading the school in all aspects of school life, from the sports fields to the school council, and from helping with Infant playtime to reading at the Christmas Service. In the first term the children’s teambuilding skills were put to the test at the PGL Centre, Little Canada, on the Isle of Wight. The activities included an obstacle course, initiative tests, escape rooms and the giant swing. The children needed to work as a team to support and encourage each other and most found the courage to take the plunge and enjoyed the ensuing sense of achievement. Year 6 travelled back in time to the Victorian Age when they visited
Milestones Museum in Basingstoke. The children experienced Victorian life first hand as they enrolled in the Board School and joined the apprentices at the Talisker Ironworks. At school they used an abacus and slates with chalk. In the foundry they learnt about the changes that occurred in making all things metal between 1809 and 1900. The children also had time to explore the many other areas of Victorian life on offer at Milestones, further enriching their knowledge of the Victorian Age. Year 6 enjoyed a day of learning at the Saatchi Gallery, supplementing their classwork on Ancient Egypt, visiting the Tutankhamun Golden Pharaoh exhibition. The children studied the priceless treasures and attended a workshop studying and creating ancient sacred symbols. The exhibition commemorated the
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100th anniversary of the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb, and was the final chance to see these glittering world heritage artefacts before they returned to Egypt forever. The children explored his life, and the discovery that captivated the world, through more than 150 authentic pieces from the tomb - three times the quantity that has travelled in previous exhibitions - more than 60 of which were travelling outside of Egypt for the first time. This was a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience the wonder and mystery of the boy king before his priceless objects returned to Egypt. After the rigours of the Senior School Entrance Exam in January, Year 6 rolled their sleeves up for an actionpacked citizenship curriculum, starting in London with the Houses
of Parliament. After the airportstyle security to enter the building they were treated to a detailed tour of the key areas. The children were fascinated to see where Lords and MPs sit and discuss key decisions of the day. They saw where and how MPs voted and the impact of the monarchy on the running of Parliament. Following Westminster Palace, Year 6 embarked on a river cruise to the Tower of London, including the crown jewels and the torture chambers! Other post-exam highlights included a Parliament-style debate about homework and school uniform, lifesaving in the Senior School pool and a Masterchef cooking competition for which the children needed to devise a healthy meal, create a recipe and budget for the ingredients. They shopped at Sainsbury’s, before safely and hygienically cooking
their dishes in the Gym Hall on portable stoves. Washing-up was a new skill for many, however we eventually returned the gym to an acceptable level of cleanliness. The necessity of home learning fundamentally altered the children’s end of Year 6 experiences. Although the trip to France and the play were cancelled, the children showed their true colours by embracing all that home schooling offered. Teachers and children alike reskilled and regrouped and soon became proficient with the new way of doing things. Live lessons, themed days and lots of sunshine were the order of the day.
to school and were well prepared for their next new and exciting chapter at secondary school.
“a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience the wonder and mystery of the boy king before his priceless objects returned to Egypt”
Year 6 further demonstrated their resilience on their return to school in June with new routines, social distancing and copious hand washing. Despite the disruption and the inevitable changes to activities, all the children returned
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Junior Music This year we were very happy to continue with the much loved Tea Time Concerts at the Junior School providing performance opportunities for our younger musicians. The children continued to be enthusiastic about these events and it was great to see so many parents and teachers supporting by watching. When we went into lockdown we continued sharing our love for music by moving our concerts online - nothing could stop us performing! The carol service is always a highlight of the school year here! The Service, held in the beautiful candle-lit St Peter’s Church, was yet again a magical and special evening as we celebrated Christmas. The service opened with a procession of children as the congregation followed soloist Elisa Zaman in singing ‘Once in Royal David’s City’. Our Year 6 children led the service with readings which were delivered with poise and clarity as the congregation listened. The choirs sang with passion as their young voices filled the church. An especially memorable moment was hearing the children sing The First Noël while the violin accompanied with the theme from Pachelbel’s Canon. When Reverend William gave his final blessing we all felt Christmas had begun and were so blessed to be part of another stunning carol service.
Years 5 and 6 took to the stage with an inclusive dynamic concert which all enjoyed. The show opened with all the children on stage singing under the colourful lights a fabulous rendition of Sam Cooke’s ‘What a Wonderful World’. What a jolly way to open our concert! We then saw our Year 5 children performing as part of their very own percussion orchestra, to the backdrop of some very impressive black and white rock and roll photographs of the children! Throughout the concert we saw compelling performances from our Drama and Poetry Clubs as well as a vibrant and polished performance of Samba from our Year 6 children. The audience all left in high spirits as we finished with a performance of ‘One Moment One People’ with soloists Isla Woodward and Hannah Johnson. As well as our wide range of musical ensembles, we incorporate music into our everyday learning as much as possible. In October, we celebrated world music with a special visit from Earthsong. They brought lots of Nepalese instruments and we learnt all about the music and the culture of Nepal. Year 5, meanwhile, created a class band, learning songs by Oasis and Coldplay, and had great fun designing and modelling for their own album covers!
The Junior Concert is always a colourful and exciting evening of music. Yet again, children from
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Junior Sport Enjoyment, participation, smiles on red faces and lots of fun! These will always be important indicators of success in sport at CCJS&N and this year has been no different. Whether it be in lessons, clubs, in-house or inter-school fixtures, every child has got stuck in and made the most of the opportunities on offer. As I wrote in last year’s Churcherian, I am incredibly proud of our participation numbers at CCJS&N and this remains true.
the children have once again been awesome! From the beginner levels of success and achievement with the Nursery children tackling their very own mini ‘Ninja Warrior’ courses in PE lessons, to the infectious enthusiasm of Year 2 in their end of unit rugby festival (despite the bitterly cold weather!), right up to the 100% win records for U10 Netball and U11 Rugby teams, the children can feel justifiably proud.
Coming to the end of another successful, albeit slightly strange year,
There was obviously a surreal end to the year and sport was especially hard hit by the pandemic during
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the Summer Term. Nevertheless, the children continued to show commitment and dedication to physical activity, whether it be through the ‘Churcher’s Fitness Challenge’, weekly PE lessons or through their own personal endeavours at home. Highlights for the Summer Term came in the form of the ‘Steps to Everest Challenge’, with the whole school managing to climb three and a half times the height of Everest in one day and raising £1,788 for UWS Mude in the process. This was followed by Sports Day, which took the form of a pentathlon with the
children competing in five events in five days. Well done to Meon House, the winners of a one-of-a-kind Sports Day! Both events proved hugely successful and again, participation across the school was excellent.
“every child has got stuck in and made the most of the opportunities on offer”
We wait to see how quickly we will be able to get back to ‘normal sport’, but what is clear is that no matter the challenges still to come, the children at CCJS&N will be ready and eager to take them on!
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Parents’ Association Community, events, fundraising and charity
Thank you
Thanks to the PA, we have invested in three new simulators, enabling all RAF cadets to develop their understanding and knowledge of the science and principles of flight and more importantly how to fly a plane themselves. From take-off and landing to flying sorties and missions of varying levels across different terrains, the laptops and simulator systems and control units have been hugely appreciated by the cadets and are giving them all fantastic learning opportunities as well as plenty of fun.
Further recent purchases include one new GoPro for capturing photos and video footage of all activities – whatever the weather or conditions. This has already been used extensively and successfully in Snowdonia with SAC and also on Basingstoke Canal with DW, Hampshire with OSCA and Bronze DofE. Four new trackers have been purchased for our largest ever DW cohort and are up and running.
Get Involved
Whether it’s socialising or serving drinks, everything you do to support our thriving Parents’ Association benefits your children. All the money raised by the PA is used to fund a range of extras for the pupils in many different ways across school. To illustrate, the very successful Autumn Fire & Ice Ball raised money for floodlights, a computer flight simulator, a tennis ball machine, new board games, adventure trackers and a laser projector! Getting involved with the PA is also a good opportunity to get to know both fellow parents and the School better and we always welcome new volunteers to join us. Whether you can offer only a little time or want to be more involved, please do get in touch! pa@churcherscollege.com
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Collingwood As the academic year has now ended, it is time to reflect back on this year, hopefully a year like no other. The phrase “May you live in interesting times” keeps coming back to me and this year has certainly been an interesting one and we have all learnt a lot from the experience. Although full of its own unique challenges, I continue to be impressed with how well the members of Collingwood have risen to these interesting days and hopefully will never have to rise to this particular challenge again. Before the House Cup was suspended, Collingwood was getting stuck into the House Competitions and we were maintaining my ‘no lane empty’ target until all lanes became empty when the competition was cancelled. We were well placed in the Academic Cup and we were just gearing up for another strong showing in the Performing Arts Cup, and there had been some strong performances in the Sports Cup when global events got in the way. I’m sure we all missed the enjoyment of the competition but we will just have to work, run and play harder to enjoy next year’s competition all the more. Our House Captains deserve a lot of the credit for the spirit in the House over the last year and it’s been a
pleasure to work with our Captains Rose Giffin and Jamie Land. Rose consistently stepped up for the House over her time at Churcher’s and I am so grateful for her contributions. Jamie has been a pleasure to work with and always helped out getting things organised in a relaxed and confident way. They have both been stars and deserve my and the House’s thanks. They have been ably backed up by the rest of their year and in particular the House Vice-Captains of Libby Remington, Annabelle Smith, Sam Redfern and Will Keohane. Also, having one of the Captains of College (Ben Williams) in the House has been a massive plus as he would always step up when required. During their time in the House (the full seven years for many), and particularly over the last year, they have all been a great support to me and they have made excellent contributions to both Churcher’s and the House. Thank you all and I look back with nostalgia on my time as your form tutor in the Third Year.
“our House Captains deserve a lot of the credit for the spirit in the House over the last year”
to bigger and better things, I hope you will look back with fondness on your time in the purple House and come back and visit to let us know how you are getting on. You are all remembered and will be missed - I’m sure I can make space for you to do another House Assembly should you wish! Overall the House has had an excellent year and whilst there are no House Competitions to celebrate, that does not take away from the commitment and hard work the House has put in this year. I am hugely impressed with how well you have all coped with these interesting days and look forward to seeing you all in person (not online!) in the not too distant future. Well done to all of you. Mr B Seal
The House will miss all our departing students and I look forward to hopefully saying a proper goodbye in the not too distant future, government regulations allowing. You leave behind a lot of memories of your amazing achievements. As you all move on
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“by my reckoning (although the other four Heads of House might view it differently), we remain the reigning champions”
Drake It’s become a bit of a tradition for me to open my Drake House annual review by referencing a suitably appropriate song to sum up the previous 12 months. In recent years, D:ream’s ‘Things Can Only Get Better’, along with Nick Berry’s classic hit, ‘Every Loser Wins’ and the late and great Whitney Houston’s ‘Didn’t We Almost Have It All?’ have fitted the bill perfectly, depending on whether we have been placed towards the top or the bottom of the overall House Cup rankings. This year, with no House competitions taking place in the Summer Term (I refuse to mention the C-word but we all know why things came to an abrupt and unwelcome standstill), and the House Cup competition being put on hold, I’m afraid to say that, despite my very best efforts, and hours spent trawling through my Shazam playlist, I have failed in my mission to find a suitable song to dedicate to the year
that was 2019-20; if only someone, somewhere, had recorded a song called ‘Things Came to an Unexpected and Premature End, Which is a Real Shame’! Whilst I’m sure there are some members of the House that heaved a huge sigh of relief when it became apparent that the cross country competition, two of the swimming galas and Sports Day, weren’t going to take place this summer, happily putting their yellow swimming caps and trainers to the back of the wardrobe for another year, I know that for a lot of the Drake pupils, these events are some of the things that make the Summer Term so very enjoyable. It’s not all doom and gloom though; you may recall that Drake won Sports Day in both 2018 and 2019, and so by my reckoning (although the other four Heads of House might view it differently), we remain the reigning
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champions, and I’m already looking forward to Sports Day 2021 when we can once again prove our prowess on the running track and athletics field. While it’s been a very odd (and, at times, testing) year, working alongside the Drake pupils and House staff has, as ever, been a pleasure, and I feel very grateful to be part of such a friendly and enthusiastic team. This year’s Captains and Vice-Captains, whilst having their tenure cut a little short, fulfilled their roles responsibly and reliably, setting an excellent example to the younger pupils and being a great support to me. I thank Alex Dannatt, Maddie Walker-Moffitt, Felix Williams, Oli King, Josh Becvar and Selina Walker-Smith for their commitment to the House and wish them, and all of the Upper Sixth students, the very best for the future. Mrs S Herrington
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Grenville It was the best of times, it could have been the worst of times: the last academic year was certainly a game of two halves, but I like to think the Grenville pupils made the most of everything in both! Sadly, the House Cup competition could not be completed, but it was great to see the boys lift the House Rugby Cup, with 2G and 4G winning their respective competitions. A huge well done to the 1G girls for doing the double of being Hockey and Netball champions! The Senior boys and 1G boys also earn plaudits for their triumphs in their Hockey competitions. I was delighted that there is no ‘Swimming Quiz’ as the omens were not good after the galas or House Quiz competitions! I am always greatly impressed with the spirit and camaraderie of the Grenville pupils, and the source of this can be traced back to school events, like Calshot, but also the individual things we do as Grenville House. I am so glad that the hot chocolate sale is now an annual fixture in December - 20 minutes of sheer bedlam – what could possibly go wrong with giving a bunch of First Years canisters of squirty cream? - but there are so many smiling faces all around and it helps raise money for SUDEP, our House charity. On the subject of charity, Finley McKay deserves special praise, raising more than £1,000 for the NHS with his ‘Blue Cake Competition’ run over lockdown. There were some brilliant blue cakes, and Molly Taylor (1G) won the competition.
We say goodbye to a brilliant set of Sixth Formers, who have been a truly wonderful group throughout their time at school. Talented and hardworking, they have been such great role models for our younger pupils, with their all-round efforts. I am sure they help to inspire the younger ones, and I am delighted that the Churcher’s 100 has once more only been completed by Grenville pupils (well done to Georgie Stratton-Brown and Molly Taylor). I would also like to thank the House Captains, Josh Banks and Molly Steele, for all their efforts throughout the year and in particular for helping with ‘Wellbeing Wednesday’ during lockdown. A thank you also to the House Vice Captains (Jamie Allen, Beccy Cole, Flora Edward, Erin Lewis, Emma O’Kelly, Holly Thompson, Tom Wild & Louis Wright) and as this fantastic bunch of Upper Sixth Formers leave, they should be delighted that they are replaced with an effervescent bunch of Grenvillians keen to follow in their footsteps of excellence!
“what could possibly go wrong with giving a bunch of First Years canisters of squirty cream?”
Mr J Seaton
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Nelson
This has certainly been a school year to remember, and although it will probably be most remembered for the impact of Covid-19 on our year, let’s not forget that many other things have happened too. Through the autumn and into spring we enjoyed those things we always enjoy: working together in class, music, drama and in the adventure and sports arenas. There were lots of plans for the end of the spring and summer that were not followed through; however, we did manage to keep in touch through the summer and maintain our learning and sense of connectedness. We all now have new skills and have learned a great deal from this experience.
circumstances were not what I might have hoped for; I would have loved to be able to do that final assembly, perhaps a social activity or two. These things were not possible, however, I still remained connected. We shared some online picnics and I made a few videos. I was able to say thank you and I have received many messages of thanks too.
Change is afoot in Nelson House… my role at Churcher’s is changing and my time as Head of Nelson House has come to an end. Perhaps the practical
This year’s house Captains, Joe Knowles and Eva Ihezue, have supported our House and supported me in an unprecedented way. I will treasure the messages and gifts and many, many Nelson memories: the Calshot trips, house cup wins, the Kilimanja-hoe challenge, the days of Nelson hoodies, ice-skating (especially the years when nobody broke their wrist), the original ‘Nelson’s Got Talent’ event, the House play the year we did the play within a play from ‘A Midsummer Night’s
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Dream’ and, of course, singing ‘You’ve Got a Friend in Me’ with parents and pupils at Calshot review evenings. My only regret is never winning Sports Day. Oh well, it’s taking part that matters... Over the years I have been supported by brilliant Assistant Heads of House and House Captains. Mrs Daniel, Eva and Joe happen to be the ones who have ended the era with me. I could not have chosen a better trio for my final year as Head of House. Well, that’s my thoughts and my attempt to draw together a conclusion to what has been a unique year and a role which has been one of my greatest privileges and most significant experiences. I am so glad this is not a goodbye message; our Churcher’s story continues... Mr R Hoe
“my only regret is never winning Sports Day. Oh well, it’s taking part that matters... “
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Rodney It is often the case, that when we look back on previous years, our memory is somewhat imperfect and one year appears to merge with the next. Well that is unlikely to be the case with the year 2019-20. There are so many words that could be used to describe it; unprecedented, extraordinary, strange, the words go on and on, but it certainly will be a year ever fixed in our memory. One word that is seldom used when talking about the year is special, but that may well be an apt word to use. In a time of huge uncertainty and disruption to our normal way of life, many of the Rodney pupils have proved how special they are by rising to the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. Many have volunteered to help charities, work in care homes and raise money to support those less fortunate than themselves. On top of that, the pupils’ acceptance of the upheaval caused by lockdown and their willingness to adapt to the remote classroom was truly special. Prior to lockdown, Rodney was having one of those special years, but unlike Liverpool who got the opportunity to complete their Premiership winning season, we never got the opportunity to complete the inter-house Sports Cup, which we were leading. One of the highlights was triumphing in the pool at the lower school gala, a feat we have not achieved for some years. I
hope that the Rodney team will rise to the challenge in 2020-21 and build on this excellent performance. Many of the activities planned for last year were unfortunately cancelled and that was true of our fundraising events as well. Despite this we did manage to send approximately £300 to Centrepoint, much of which was raised by 2R who organised a sale of hot chocolate at morning break. In terms of form trips, only the First Year trip to bowling at Havant escaped the disruption caused by lockdown.
“many have volunteered to help charities, work in care homes and raise money to support those less fortunate than themselves”
The year also saw some changes to the Rodney staff. Jeremy Harris, Assistant Head of Rodney for the last four years, has taken over as the Head of Nelson. Our loss will be Nelson’s gain and I am sure that Nelson will be in safe hands for the future. Jeremy will be replaced by Kelly Higgins and I would like to wish her every success in the role. Finally, I would like to thank the Rodney House Captains, Amelie Lewis and Jude Franklin, for the support and contributions they have made to Rodney over the years and I would like to wish them well for all their future endeavours. Mr J Yugin-Power
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Sixth Form It was lovely to welcome the Sixth Form to Ramshill this year, as always, marked by blistering sunshine after a late holiday period of cloud and rain. It was weather to match the optimism and ambition of our students. The new Lower Sixth arrived in Ramshill to be welcomed by the Sixth Form Team and it was great to see how welcoming the students were to those who had arrived from other schools. It was far from a gentle ‘easing in’ to the new school year however, as they were put through their paces confirming their subject choices and listening to a lecture on study skills from Elevate Education. Much was done to help the new Sixth Form students settle in, such as the Captains’ Mexican lunch, the dodgeball tournament and the annual trip to Calshot, which has added some exciting new activities since last year. The Upper Sixth returned to what is probably the toughest term of their school life, where the workload steps up once again at the same time as UCAS applications need completing. I must thank the Personal Tutors, who work so hard to ensure the students’ UCAS applications are the very best that they can be, and the hard work paid off with some fantastic university offers. The students really do continue to impress year after year, and it is a truism to say that often our busiest students achieve the best academically, too. It is impressive to see how they balance their increasingly challenging academic work with all of their extra-curricular activities.
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Of course, the usual end of year was taken away from the class of 2020, and alongside missing the exams they were also denied the London Dinner, Prefects’ Dinner, Leavers’ Day and, most notably, the Sixth Form Ball. They were hugely impressive in the way they kept going with the Churcher’s to Campus courses, and the way they endured the four days between results day on 13 August and the government U-turn on 17 August with such fortitude. Although the passage of some to university may have been delayed, we wish all of the students, wherever life may take them, all the very best for a successful future; after all they have been through, they deserve it. The Upper Sixth were not the only ones who suffered with the closure of the school. Tribute must also be paid to the Lower Sixth who continued working through their syllabuses remotely, and who did exceptionally well to adjust to a new way of working, as did the staff. We hope that the end of their time at school will enable them to enjoy the usual end of year festivities, and of course a normal exam season! Holly Milner and Ben Williams proved excellent Captains of College and were ably supported by Kirsty Foreman and Alec Murray. Mr B Baker
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“it is a truism to say that often our busiest students achieve the best academically�
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“students took the January mocks in their stride and we celebrated with good old party food”
Fifth Year The academic year started as normal, the race towards GCSE exams began and our brilliant Fifth Year were on to a winner! The Autumn Term of sport saw some epic games in the girls’ hockey and boys’ rugby. The students took their January mocks in their stride and celebrated with gold old party food on the last day. Then along came the Spring Term and Prom planning was in full swing... and then we went into lockdown. Boris announced that exams were cancelled and initially gave no plan as to what would happen instead. Nevertheless, bridging courses began online in five subjects of the students’ choice. Unfortunately, both the original and rearranged Prom had to be cancelled,
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which was hugely disappointing for everyone concerned. Thankfully the well-earned summer holiday finally arrived and brought with it some very successful results. Congratulations to all and well done for making it through! Mrs L Snowball
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Art & Design
Whether through the millions of painted rainbows in sitting room windows, up and down the land, or powerful imagery created by contemporary artists, standing up against racism and prejudice, at a time of national and international crisis, change and uncertainty, Art has the power to respond swiftly, unite communities and evocatively express ideas and emotions. During the 2019-20 academic year Churcher’s College students were equally swift to respond to change, adapting their own creative ideas, skills and approaches magnificently, in order to produce highly imaginative and refined work, both before and during the national lockdown.
transformed the familiar image of the school’s iconic emblem into radically new and different visions that echoed the palpable feelings of hope, positivity and thanks that united the nation as well as the school. Once the ships had set sail, Lower School pupils only further impressed with the dynamic impact of their photography. Stunning doesn’t quite do justice to the mesmerising, monochromatic effect of their abstract visions, whilst their quirky, surreal photographs were certainly out of this world! The Being Art Challenge, inspired by the international ‘Getty Challenge’, added a further spark of creative fun to complete the Lower School year.
In terms of a uniting force, the fleets of First - Third Year Churcher’s Ship Challenge images were truly something to behold. They
At GCSE level the Surreal Portraits and Pop Art works never fail to captivate viewers and this year was certainly no exception. During the period of remote learning, the Art of
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the Week page on the school website offered a perfect space for all to still view the brilliant array of artistic talents of both GCSE and A Level students. In the Fourth Year, this included a fantastic pencil study of an old lady with a mask by Phoebe Batt and a Pop Art collage by Kwado Asante which visually engages with issues surrounding racism, sparked by recent events in the USA. Other stand out GCSE work from the Fifth Form included Lowri Hegan’s floral observations and Charlotte Schryver’s farmyard portraits. The many A Level highlights included Jamie Land’s portrait of fellow Lower Sixth student, Tom Wild, Amy Robinson’s plastic wrap portrait and highly topical photography by Vicky Farmer focusing on masks and social detachment in modern society.
Jamie Land, Upper Sixth
Amy Robinson, Upper Sixth. ‘Breaking Through ‘
Ellie Jolliffe, Upper Sixth. ‘Self ‘
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Alec Murray, Upper Sixth. ‘ Self’
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Maddy Lawrence, Upper Sixth.
Everyone would agree that, from March 2019, the lockdown measures, which brought about the need to learn remotely, were a genuine challenge for all. The Art Department has been so impressed with the level of dedication, initiative and creativity that pupils and students of all year groups have employed within the creation of their artwork whilst overcoming that challenge. Although the visual impact of their work is staggering, their overall creative achievements in the face of sudden and dramatic change is perhaps even more so. Well done! Mr D Heath
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English Despite initial fears that forced exclusion from school would be damaging to pupils’ academic progress, we should have known that they would adapt and excel in the same way they always have done, settling into Teams and remote learning as if they’d never known anything different. The calibre of work and endeavour, at all levels, has been hugely impressive over these past few months. I have noticed in many an accelerated development of independent learning skills, with routine assignments planned, executed and edited much more carefully than they would have been under normal conditions and the constant juggling of tight deadlines. In English we
have also witnessed a blossoming of student initiative, nowhere more so than in Zoe Blackburn’s launch of a ‘virtual LitSoc’: meeting together at the end of every week, with discussion often extending beyond the designated hour, we have enjoyed presentations on writers as diverse as Jericho Brown, Mary Shelley, Rudyard Kipling, Anthony Burgess, Thomas Hardy and Charles Dickens.
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In the earlier part of the school year we were pleased to welcome local author Vicky Holmes to Churcher’s. Creator of the popular ‘Warrior Cats’ series, Vicky delivered a workshop for the First Years, culminating in a 500 word story competition (won by
Albert Wheeler, with Moritz Flohr and Lily Brady highly commended). Our other most significant visitor was Dr Sophie Duncan, Fellow in English at Christ Church, Oxford, who gave a workshop on Ibsen’s A Doll’s House to our Sixth Form students, followed by a broader contextual lecture on the representations of women in Victorian literature. Already familiar to our students from her series of Massolit lectures, Sophie was enthusiastically received and we hope to be welcoming her back soon. Another highlight of the year was the ESU public speaking competition. So popular was it amongst local schools this year that we were asked to host
a preliminary round at Churcher’s before the holding of the local heats at the Bishops’ Palace in Chichester. In the first round, in front of ESU training cameras, our Fourth Year team of Hannah Martin, Peter Elsom and Maddy Sutcliffe saw off their opposition in fine style, not only winning the heat but also being awarded best chair (Hannah) and outstanding personality (Maddy, for her amusing speech on the prospects of colonising Mars). Meanwhile the Fifth Years (Amy Gaisford, Ellie Houghton and Ollie Fogelin) not only made it to the Bishops’ Palace but also stormed through to the regional final in Mayfair (unfortunately postponed owing to the coronavirus outbreak).
Speaking on the topic ‘The Media Manufactures Public Opinion’, Amy spearheaded the team to a memorable victory, with Ollie deservedly being adjudged best chair. Plans for summer theatre trips were sadly cancelled, though we did get to see an interesting RSC production of Measure for Measure at the Barbican before Christmas. We are fortunate in having been given online access to many theatre productions since Easter, but let’s hope we’ll soon be back enjoying them live on stage.
“I have noticed in many an accelerated development of independent learning skills”
Dr D Cave
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Classics
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Despite the strange circumstances, the Classics Department enjoyed a busy year both in and out of the classroom. GCSE & A Level Bay of Naples Trip The Classics Department were very lucky in many ways to enjoy the beautiful sites of the Bay of Naples during October half term. The itinerary was full of wonderful sites: the vast amphitheatre in Pozzuoli, the magnificently preserved Greek temples at Paestum and, of course, a
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visit to Caecilius’ house in Pompeii! We also managed an afternoon on a beautiful beach near Paestum and consumed a fair quantity of ice-cream and pizza between us all! Second Year Trip to Butser Ancient Farm and Fishbourne Roman Palace Once again, the Classics Department prophetically managed to squeeze in our local visit for the Second Years before lockdown. The whole year
“we managed to consume a fair quantity of ice-cream and pizza between us all!�
group were able to experience life in both a Celtic roundhouse and a Roman villa. On their return, they debated the merits of both lifestyles, with most choosing the relative luxuries of Roman living! Third Year Classics Challenge: Experimental archaeology in lockdown! The Department took the opportunity of home learning to challenge the Third Year Classicists to recreate
various Roman and Greek artefacts or to write a new version of a Greek myth. By far the most popular was the Pompeian bread-making task, to recreate the loaf found in the bakeries of Pompeii! The pupils were extremely resourceful and talented bakers, everyone rising to the challenge! There were some impressive Minoan jewellery designs and Mycenaen weapons, too. Mr J Hegan
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“this year, students have had no shortage of material to follow in the news”
Economics
economic development BY DR CARLOS ZEPEDA Senior Teaching Fellow in Development Studies, SOAS
BY BRENDAN BAYLEY HM Treasury
TUESDAY 14 FRIDAY 6 MARCH 2020 4.15PM
Drinks and nibbles in Gallery from 4:00pm
CHURCHER’S COLLEGE | LECTURE THEATRE
JANUARY 2020 4.15PM
drinks and nibbles Gallery from 4:00pm
CHURCHER’S COLLEGE | LECTURE THEATRE
This has been a fascinating year to study Economics and the events in the news have given us plenty to talk about. Whether it is Brexit, Boris Johnson’s pledge to ‘level up’ the economy, or the global economic fallout from Covid-19, the students have had no shortage of material to follow. Students have had unfettered access to this through their subscriptions to the Financial Times and the Economics Today journal. The students have also enjoyed two extremely well attended lectures this year. Dr Carlos Zepeda, Senior Teaching Fellow in Development Studies, SOAS talked about the meaning of ‘Economic Development’.
Brendan Bayley also led a very insightful discussion on the UK’s agricultural economic policy. Students have also taken their studies further by reading Economics books and many have been interested by the message of ‘Doughnut Economics’. Freddie Anderson, Ben Cooley and Jack Ramseyer entered the Bank of England’s essay competition on the transition to a low carbon economy. Jack also entered the Young Economist of the Year Competition. This year we also entered students into the Tycoon Enterprise Competition run by the Peter Jones Foundation. The team of Louis Barrowcliffe, Phillipa Chads, Megan
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Hassanali, and Charlie Frizzell entered their business plan into the competition and successfully received an investment from Peter Jones. They used this to publish their student guide to mindfulness which they hope to sell in the Autumn Term. The Economics and Business students also had the unique chance to apply their knowledge to real world situations by attending a Dragons’ Den event run by Draper Esprit. This was a unique opportunity to learn about venture capitalism and meet and question a range of CEOs. Mr M Hill
Has Brexit broken
British politics? BY JONATHAN ISABY
THURSDAY 7 NOVEMBER 2019 4.15PM
CHURCHER’S COLLEGE | LECTURE THEATRE
“more than half of these students are going on to study Business at university”
BY Dane Batt
Business There were 20 Upper Sixth Business students this year, the largest cohort the school has known, and they were lively, engaged, funny and enthusiastic. Despite a long teaching career, it was the first time I had taught two sets of twins in the same year group – Evie and Selina WalkerSmith and Grace and Maddie Roberts. The 20 Business students had a lot to live up to after an amazing set of results in 2019 and, of course, exams this year proved to be chaotic and confusing, nevertheless, they performed excellently. More than half of these students are going on to study Business at university where I am sure they will replicate their A Level
THURSDAY 19 SEPT 2019 4.15PM
CHURCHER’S COLLEGE | LECTURE THEATRE
success. This year, they were helped by the new ‘Churcher’s to Campus course’ (a Business university bridging course), which they completed with their typical commitment and passion. Much credit should go to the hard working students in this cohort. The Lower Sixth have been working very hard too. They did especially well during the lockdown period in the Summer Term, maintaining their work ethic and willingness to keep progressing through the A Level course content. We were pleased to welcome a number of external speakers for Business CCALS lectures. In November,
Jonathan Isaby spoke passionately on the topic ‘Has Brexit Broken British Politics?’ (Mr West taught Jonathan Economics some 25 years ago – see the photo evidence!). At the beginning of the academic year, Dane Batt from Orange Business Services gave a talk entitled ‘So what is HR and might it be for you?’. We were also fortunate to have Simon Flint (a former parent and school governor) come in to classroom lessons to talk not only about his area of business specialism but also business more generally using ‘real world’ examples. Mr R A West
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Geography With seven of our 2019 alumni having set off to university to read Geography, the Autumn Term started as normal, with all years embarking on their respective topics or exam specifications inside New College. Outdoors, coats were zipped up and beanies donned for the fieldwork programme. This saw the Fifth Year investigate contrasting urban areas in Portsmouth Harbour, the Seconds exploring the bio-geographies of Africa and Asia at Marwell Zoo and the Upper Sixth piloting data collection at West Wittering and Chichester for their Independent Investigations (NEAs). This year we moved the Lower Sixth residential trip to the FSC’s centre at Nettlecombe Court for three days of fieldwork in and around the north Somerset coast, investigating beach morphology in Porlock Bay, contrasting the agricultural village of Wheddon Cross with the chocolate box tourism
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honey-pot of Dunster and coastal management at Minehead. Our students worked well into the Spring Term, preparing themselves for internal and external exams, as we made the switch to remote teaching and learning towards the end of term. Teething problems seemed to resolve themselves quickly and we all settled into a routine of Teams lessons and online Firefly marking. In fact, in the absence of internal exams, study leave and the various perennial fixtures in the Summer Term calendar, the First to Fourth Years actually worked through more content than usual. Frustratingly, the best summer fieldwork weather in memory coincided with lockdown. As a consequence, the annual summer trips to Christchurch Bay (Fourth Year), New Forest (Third Year) and Lulworth Cove (First Year) didn’t happen. However, we were able to encourage pupils out of the house and away from
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screens with individual surveys into garden percolation rates, appraisal of local picnic spots and garden environmental quality patterns. In the absence of external exams, and study leave, it was particularly nice to be able to keep teaching the Fifth Year and Upper Sixth. The pre-A Level taster sessions were popular and productive, allowing pupils to sample a range of topics and activities from the A Level course. Our Upper Sixth C2C programme was drawn from the Cambridge University pre-U course. It produced some excellent research on overpopulation, Portuguese favelas, biodiversity and sustainable development, culminating in some wonderfully creative student presentations following an individually selected line of longitude from pole to pole. Mr D Nighy
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History History Trips
Quantum Theatre performance to commemorate the First World War.
“I had a great time on the Battlefields trip. We visited loads of sites and it was very interesting when, at the Somme, we were asked to re-enact ‘going over the top’. Afterwards, we spoke about it and I understood how terrifying it was to be so exposed, however, we were only hearing birds singing and not bullets. The memorials to all the German and British soldiers were huge with thousands and thousands of gravestones. It truly made me understand how deadly the war was. At the end of the trip, we visited the chocolate shop in Ypres and it was delicious.” Harry Cooper, Third Year
We have launched our own Covid-19 History Archive, to record lockdown first-hand, which we hope will be used by future Churcherians for archival work.
Ypres and the Somme
‘Six: the Musical’ at Chichester Festival Theatre Our Upper Sixth Historians enjoyed seeing the musical ‘Six’, which was (loosely!) linked to their A Level Tudor course. Each wife of Henry VIII was reimagined as a modern pop queen. The wives are in deep contention over who had the saddest story. One by one they take their turn to sing their sorrows through a range of musical genres: raps, ballads, and pop. With lots of references to Tudor life and many historical puns, students and staff thoroughly enjoyed it!
CCALS and Enrichment Henry VII’s Foreign Policy: an exercise in failure? Dr James Ross, Senior Lecturer at Winchester University.
A Survivor’s Testimony In February, Churcher’s was honoured to welcome Mala Tribich MBE, to share the testimony of a survivor, a child at the time, almost 75 years after Bergen-Belsen concentration camp was liberated. Mala is now among the last people able to give a firstperson account of what she and others suffered, and what was done to them. The 500 pupils, parents and guests listened in silence to the blisteringly powerful talk which painted a haunting and vivid picture of life inside the camp. “There is often an unconscious distance drawn between ourselves and the event when studying history in the classroom, but hearing the firsthand testimony of a survivor really brought the horrors of the Holocaust up close. Not only did Mala stress the importance of using our knowledge about the past to guide the future, but she really made me aware of the need to humanise the statistics we are given in our textbooks and focus on a period that may be easier to forget.” Megan Hassanali, Lower Sixth Mrs H Jolliffe
How crucial was direct action to the French Revolution 1789-1792? Professor Emeritus of History William Doyle, Bristol University. Napoleon: a genius or megalomaniac? By Prof David Andress
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Henry VII’s Foreign Policy:
an exercise in failure? BY DR JAMES ROSS, SENIOR LECTURER AT WINCHESTER UNIVERSITY
WEDNESDAY 23 OCTOBER 2019 4.30 - 5.30PM
CHURCHER’S COLLEGE | LECTURE THEATRE
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“questions so challenging and impressive in their research and detail, they would make many in our current national press corps blush”
Politics
New York to Brussels:
Behind the scenes at the EU and the UN BY ANDREW CANNON, Partner at Herbert, Smith, Freehills LLP.
MONDAY 03 FEB 2020 | 4.15PM
CHURCHER’S COLLEGE | LECTURE THEATRE
A year unlike any other turned out to be a surprisingly busy one for the Politics Department. The annual delights of a trip to the Houses of Parliament and, most disappointingly, the trip to Brussels were sadly curtailed. However, there was still plenty to get excited about. The CCALS programme was as varied and enjoyable as ever. Students were treated to a fascinating insight into the inner workings of the EU, UN and UK government when Andrew Cannon, Partner at Herbert, Smith and Freehills LLP spoke about his career in international diplomacy and law. The return of Jonathan Isaby, Editor at Brexit Central, provided a more adversarial atmosphere, as Mr Isaby’s strong views on leaving the European Union were met with passionate rebuttal from many sections of the room. Such occasions for students to encounter arguments they strongly oppose provides an excellent opportunity to sharpen their own positions.
were put under the spotlight in a Q&A session in front of a packed Lecture Theatre. Upper Sixth students Jude Franklin and Eva Izehue adeptly handled a raft of questions from First Years to Sixth Formers that were so challenging and impressive in their research and detail, they would make many in our current national press corps blush. A key priority for the department this year has been bringing politics to students outside of the Sixth Form. A group of students descended on Third Year form time to provide PSHE sessions which illustrated the working (and challenges) of the UK’s electoral system. They conveyed their knowledge and interest for the subject by running some fantastic workshops.
In more high profile activity, the environment was top of the agenda as Damien Hinds MP and the Conservative government’s policy
The sudden and surprising announcement by Boris Johnson of a December election, the first since 1923, provided another golden opportunity to whip the school into a political fervour. Our own Mock General Election was hastily organised, with Sixth Form students representing the five main political parties in England. A week of campaigning around the school,
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canvassing form groups, lunchtime pickets and flyering taught the Politics students plenty about life on the campaign trail (and the disturbing race to the bottom that negative campaigning can create!). Students from every year group then had the opportunity to vote in House Assemblies, where each party had the opportunity to give a final rousing call to arms from the stump. The results were intriguing, with the Green Party carrying the day and forming a minority government, just one seat shy of a full majority. The dedication, time, effort and speech writing skills of the students were a credit to the Department. So, whilst this year has been somewhat unprecedented, the talent and enthusiasm of the Politics students at Churcher’s has remained a comforting constant in the buffeting winds of the last year. Despite the stormy waters, this year has seen the Department go from strength to strength. Mr P Cheshire
Psychology As we are now finishing our fourth year of Psychology at Churcher’s, the Department continues to grow and as a result we welcome Mrs Cressida Hadley to the school in September 2020 as an additional part-time teacher. She was already one of the Churcher’s family as she had been working at the Junior School. We will soon be a Department of three teachers and Psychology is one of the most popular A Levels here, as it is across the country. There is no doubt that the academic year 2019-20 came with some unique challenges for both teachers and students with the Upper Sixth dealing with the brunt of the uncertainty and stress but they dealt with it brilliantly with positive stoicism. The Lower Sixth were utterly fabulous throughout their remote learning and showed just how adaptable and committed to their
learning they were. And none of this has dampened down the popularity of the subject with 36 students in the Upper Sixth, 32 in the Lower Sixth and 50 projected for 2020-21’s Lower Sixth.
“Psychology is one of the most popular A Levels here, as it is across the country”
With Mrs Clark having joined this year, she has brought with her such enthusiasm for the subject that more students than ever before are applying to study Psychology at university (and at top ones too!). We had some excellent trips and events planned (Southampton University and Brain Day) but sadly they were Covidcancelled, but not to fear, they will run again! There’s no stopping the Psychology Department, it is in rude good health! Dr G Glasspool
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“we test our ideas within a safe environment, debating our arguments to make them more robust”
Religion & Philosophy On occasion, it is like the world takes a big breath and leaps forward simultaneously. It happened for Confucius and Aristotle who independently discovered Virtue Ethics and the idea that by changing your own habits you can have a profound effect on society, and thereby change the world. The R&P Department saw its own changes this year, both spurred by external events. The first related to our successful Senior Philosophical Society, where we added ‘Ink Revisited’ to the title. We took inspiration from the magazine INK, with material written by students for students, and invited the students to present their articles for us to discuss. The society is based on the quote by Socrates, “The only thing I know is that I know nothing”, or as Friedrich Nietzsche stated, “There are no facts – only interpretations”. We test our ideas within a safe environment, debating our arguments to make them more robust. We had fantastic talks on gravity by Ollie King, dreams by Timothy Emmens, new wave feminism by Zoe Blackburn and consciousness by Tommy Howells, to name a few.
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In terms of student participation, we have never had such a successful year. The second change in the Department was caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. We are quite pragmatic about technology, and will embrace it when we see fit. And did we embrace it! From the outset we agreed that whatever FireFly pages we were to produce, we had to be able to reuse them next year. Mr Baker and Mr Lofthouse led the way, creating outstanding pages consisting of a plethora of resources including homemade videos, quotes, keywords, texts etc. We envisage a future where students will bring in their own devices, enabling a differentiated classroom scenario with some students working independently, and others having more one-to-one teaching. Thinking further ahead, we do not only have to teach our own students; our material could be opened up to people of all backgrounds around the world. We welcome yet another year, whatever may come. Mr T Ostersen
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James Holt presenting Stoicism to the Senior Philosophical Society
Fourth Year GCSE class freeze framing The Book of Job
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Mathematics Mathematics Challenges
We entered more than 150 pupils into individual Maths Challenges this year and, again, more than 55% received a Gold, Silver or Bronze certificate. Unfortunately, due to Covid-19 the Junior Maths Challenge was delayed and has now been completed online and we await the results. Once again Churcher’s hosted the Junior Maths Challenge and we were delighted to welcome 24 different schools to compete against each other. The day was a huge success!
learning certainly did not put a stop to their progress. Though our Fifth Years had finished their IGCSE course, many were very busy either consolidating work, problem solving or using their Maths skills to be creative. Using Desmos, a great graphing package, some pupils have created fantastic and very complicated pieces of artwork using only equations of graphs. Mrs T Greenaway
Student Work
During lockdown, our pupils were very busy learning many new areas of Maths and the move to remote
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Part of the ‘Angry Bird’ collection created by Lily Bradbury and Flo Ashworth.
In geometry, the spiral of Theodorus (also called square root spiral, Einstein spiral or Pythagorean spiral) is a spiral composed of right triangles, placed edge to edge. It was named after Theodorus of Cyrene.
Problem solving by Seb Browing and Zac Franklin
The Taj Mahal by George Feeney This took 500 separate graphs to create.
Tom Jackson Problem Solving:
BB8 by Isabelle Whittle. This also has some animated parts. It is split into many separate sections such as the head and eyes, etc. Each section needs many curves to create it.
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French It has been another great academic year for the French Department. We are delighted with how well our students worked, especially during the lockdown period. There have been some amazing essays from our Sixth Formers, as well as some impressive written paragraphs from our strong Fourth and Fifth Years. Hermione, our French assistant, worked extremely hard with the students, and managed to support most of them even from her home in France. She played a huge part in helping them gain confidence in the language. Her fun DIY and entertaining activities during her French Club sessions were thoroughly enjoyed. We said “au revoir” to Hermione and now look forward to welcoming Marina in October. Some of our Second Year students continued exchanging letters with a Collège near Nantes, and we had a successful senior trip to Rouen last October, where 16 GCSE students discovered the beautiful region of Honfleur, and the delights of Rouen’s pretty town centre, whilst having the opportunity to improve their
French during well delivered sessions organised in between visits. Rouen is a beautiful town we hope to return to with more students in the future. The lockdown prevented us from running our trip to the Château de la Baudonnière last Easter, but we are hoping to be able to travel freely by next April and return to this activity centre with First and Second Years in 2021.
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We look forward to new exciting opportunities in the next academic year and I would like to thank each and every one of our French students for their tenacity and humour during lockdown. Let’s look ahead to a fab French future. Mme N Sparks
“Hermione played a huge part in helping them gain confidence in the language�
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German
We were very fortunate to be supported in our aims to engage our students and to bring out the best in them by our brilliant and talented Language Assistant, Lennart. When our regular exchange to Warendorf could not happen this year, we focused on bringing pupils in close contact with German culture in the classroom instead. Lennart, who was a great asset to the German Department, inspired our students with his natural ability, creating fun conversation lessons using inspirational material to get the pupils speaking German. Our Upper Sixth students rated him as the best assistant they could have wished for as he created stimulating, interesting and challenging material to get them to talk about their A Level topics. With the support of the German teachers, Lennart led a project as German Cultural Exchange Ambassador organised by the UKGerman Connection. The project focused on sustainability in the local area and our students researched this topic and exchanged information with two schools in Germany. Our Lower School students created posters, sustainable gift boxes for Christmas and artefacts which they then sent to the German schools. The Second Years were lucky enough to be able to open the boxes that were sent to
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“it is important to us to raise cultural awareness through our teaching as much as possible”
us by the German schools in January, so not only did they learn about sustainability in Germany but they were also able to sample the German sweets that were included in the parcels we were sent. In line with our cultural theme of this academic year we celebrated St. Nikolaustag on 6 December. First Years were able to sing the song ‘Lasst uns froh und munter sein’, a traditional German St. Nikolaus song, and they were able to experience what it is like to be a German child waking up on the morning of 6 December and finding sweets in their shoes. An assortment of Lebkuchen, chocolates and other sweets was not only welcomed by the First Years, but all students studying German were eating delicious German biscuits in their lessons around St. Nikolaustag. All year groups enjoyed a presentation by Lennart on how Christmas is celebrated in his house and he had already planned to do the same for Easter when the period of home learning started. Lennart continued to support our Fifth Years and Upper Sixth students brilliantly in their online courses during lockdown. The students benefitted greatly from continuing spoken lessons with him conducted in Teams all the way from Germany.
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It is important to us to raise cultural awareness through our teaching as much as possible and, to that effect, Lennart was asked to visit the German Club in the Junior School and present German traditions to younger students. He did the same at Herne Junior School and all children in both settings were very appreciative of him visiting them. Two Upper Sixth students, Megan Knight and Max Walton, acted as helpers in the Second and Third Year. They worked with individual students who benefitted from extra support and those whose existing German ability needed extending. I am delighted that both these students have chosen to study German at university. The German Department is very much looking forward to organising the exchange to Warendorf and the Christmas Market trip to Cologne when it is possible to travel safely abroad again as a school group. Both trips are of high linguistic and cultural value and we cannot wait to launch them again. Dr A Broomfield
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Spanish The Spanish Department enjoyed a bright start to the academic year with plenty of enthusiasm and with lots in the pipeline; a highflying A Level year with Annie Chamberlain, Lucy Thompson, Becky Cole, Sophie Zoltowski, Rose Giffin and Eleanor Joliffe enthused and confident after completing work placements in Valencia, a trip to Cuba in the making and our over-subscribed trip to Barcelona.
special mention diploma, one of only 271 students out of 3,116 students acknowledged for the quality of their translation. So impressed were they with Zoe’s translation that they commented specifically on how well she understood the source text. Well done Zoe! Mrs A-M Giffin
Goodbye to Elena Hall
Theatre trips to see ‘La Casa de los Espíritus’ and ‘La Casa de Bernarda Alba’ were in the diary again this year and the Sixth Formers were captivated with both texts brought to life through powerful and thought-provoking performances by the Cervantes Theatre Company in London. Sincere congratulations go to Zoe Blackburn whose entry to the European translating competition was deemed outstanding and she was awarded a Juvenes Translatores
This summer, we said a very fond farewell to Elena, who after 22 years working in the Spanish Department is bidding us “adiós” to enjoy her well-deserved years of retirement. During her time at Churcher’s, Elena has not only been our charismatic and energetic Spanish assistant with unparalleled knowledge of Spanish culture and current affairs, but has also come to the rescue of many teaching classes. We are all indebted to her for bringing such energy and sense of fun to the Department, she has been untiring in her efforts to prepare students for their oral exams at AS and A Level. The depth and interest she has in so many different topics related to Spain and South America illustrate her wealth of knowledge that she was always so generous to share. She has helped numerous students beyond the classroom, proving instrumental in organising au pair placements in Valencia for our Sixth Formers. This has been a huge bonus to all our
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In October half term, with a healthy number of keen linguists from the Second and Third Years we had an incredible four days whizzing round Barcelona on metro, bus and foot avoiding the Catalonian Independence Protests which were in full swing. The students made the most of the cultural and historical sights, with photo competitions, tapas tasting and a day at the ever popular Port Aventura theme park.
students who took part and many have very fond memories of these experiences. Sadly, it was an abrupt ending not only to the school year, but also to Elena’s 22 years of service and many students did not get the chance to say thank you and goodbye, so here are just a few comments from present and past students to show just how much Elena was appreciated and will be missed. “When I was appointed Head of Spanish at Churcher’s College in 1997, I was in fact the only teacher of Spanish and we had no Spanish assistant. Then I met a very chatty little Spanish lady waiting for her daughter who was in the same ballet class as mine and ... the rest is history. Elena soon proved super dynamic and very popular with the students with whom she worked miracles in their spoken language.” Janet Harvey Tsakiropoulou (Head of Spanish 19972007) “Elena is the definition of Spanish; colourful, vibrant and chatty. Plus, she is better than an encyclopaedia. A classic who could never be replaced!” Emily Giffin 2018
“Puedes estar segura de que hemos aprendido un montón de ti. ¡vamos todos a echarte de menos!” Zoe Blackburn 2021
“Academic rigour is not just instilled in lessons but is furthered by offering opportunities well beyond the demands of the syllabus”
“Gracias por todos los años que me has ayudado.” Miquel Bover-Sinclair 2021
“Gracias por todos los años hablando español juntos, me han ayudado mucho.”
“I am so grateful for all your hard work (and tea) that got me to where I am now, as well as the fab memories from Valencia.” Sophie Zoltowski 2020
“Gracias por todo tu ayuda y paciencia.”
Anqi Stenning 2021
Rose Giffin 2020
“‘Mrs Hall has a brilliant mind and every single time I saw her she had a new story or interesting piece of knowledge to share. She is so kind-hearted and always willing to help.”
“really helped build our confidence in conversational Spanish as well as broaden our vocabulary and given us an authentic glimpse in Hispanic culture.”
Becky Cole 2020
“our 1-to-1 lessons were one of the highlights of my week.” Ben Fleck 2020
“Thank you for all your support over the years!” Alysia Hoe 2019
“I hope your outfits are still just as bright and colourful as your outlook on life” Evie Fleck 2018
Ellie Joliffe 2020
“my speaking and general understanding of the language has been immensely improved thanks to you.”
“Thank you for giving me so much help and confidence, as well as the amazing au pairing opportunity in Valencia which I will never forget.”
Erin Lewis 2020
Lucy Thompson 2020
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Drama The Drama Department began the year with a bang with our senior production of Laura Wade’s ‘Alice’ at the end of the Autumn Term. With a cast and crew of more than 70 students, our fabulous actors brought the whacky characters to life with ease, as the audience laughed and cried their way through one of the most well-known stories of our time. Our outstanding technical and backstage crew faced new challenges with the ever shrinking and growing props, not to mention the disappearing carpets! Continuing with the comedy theme, our super talented First Years followed suit early in the
Spring Term with our annual ‘Panto Week’. We saw the entire year group perform their very own take on some of the Panto classics and they did not disappoint! Students performed effortlessly in front of staff and their peers, with many stepping out of their comfort zone to take the stage for the very first time and once again, it was a roaring success. Oh, yes it was! Later in the Spring Term, we were blown away by the sheer sophistication of our second senior play of the year, The Diary of Anne Frank. With just a handful of students and some very careful direction from Mr Lofthouse, students captured the
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heart-wrenching feel of the story and there was not a dry eye in the house! Unfortunately, as our year was cut short, we did not have the pleasure of showcasing the talents of our Fourth Year GCSE and Lower Sixth A Level students in the annual Drama and Dance Evening. However, they have still been busy devising their very own performances following workshops with some fantastic theatre companies, including Frantic Assembly and George Dillon, specialising in physical theatre techniques. We are very excited to see their work develop as we move into the new academic year!
It would be criminal not to mention our amazing Fifth Year and Upper Sixth students, who also produced some outstanding work this year. Although they did not have the opportunity to sit the written exam, they completed all of their practical components and as always, they were truly outstanding. Performances were engaging and thought-provoking as students tackled some very hardhitting topics including the freedom of speech movement, religion, feminism and the refugee crisis. Once again, our students really did excel and we are extremely proud of what they have accomplished this year.
Our LAMDA students also continued to flourish, as did our ever-expanding extra-curricular Drama clubs, with many students ‘dipping their toes in’ for the first time, only to become key players. We look forward to seeing how our students progress even further as they continue their Drama journey. Here’s to another jam-packed year!
“students captured the heart-wrenching feel of the story and there was not a dry eye in the house”
Miss S Carty
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Music As I sit down to think about the year, whilst there is a large amount of sadness at not having been able to give the pupils the opportunity of performing at Cadogan Hall in London, taking the Junior Choir to Paris to sing at Disneyland or saying a normal farewell to our talented musicians in the Upper Sixth, I am filled with such joy at what we have nonetheless been able to achieve. We may not have been able to fulfil the planned large events during the Summer Term, but that doesn’t mean that the Music Department hasn’t been busy! Each week from the summer half term, pupils sent in videos of themselves singing and playing at home during lockdown. These videos were put together to form a short lunchtime concert each week and ranged from pupils in the First Year, to our musicians in the Sixth Form. Not only did some performances show a great deal of skill, but some also showed a very
imaginative way of using technology. Oliver Fogelin stunned us all with his one-man Barbershop performance and Laurie Horwood managed to play a cello duet by himself! In addition to these concerts, two large ensembles were produced: the remote orchestra consisting of 70 musicians taken from the various orchestras and wind bands, playing a medley from ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ and a very large choir taken from our Senior Choir, Junior Choir and Year 6 at the Junior School singing ‘Can You Feel The Love Tonight?’ from The Lion King. These projects were a huge success, thanks to the brilliant musicians who had managed to record themselves playing and singing at home with a backing track, whilst also ensuring that they had found outstanding costumes to wear! Our amazing tech team then put it all together to produce two very professional performances. In addition, we were then entertained by the outstanding Barbershop group singing their
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‘Isolation’ medley. It was fantastic to see a few ‘new’ members that had crept in to the ensemble! So back to the year before Coronavirus took over our lives! The Spring Concert, held in St. Peter’s Church, took place a week before lockdown. Little did we know at the time, but this would be the last major concert of the academic year – and, with hindsight, I couldn’t imagine a better way to go into lockdown. The Senior Choir always like a challenge, but one challenge that we have never undertaken before is in singing sections from Handel’s ‘Messiah’. Wow, how well they all rose to the challenge! Their performance of various choruses from Part 2 of this famous work will long live in my memory, particularly the chords of the Hallelujah chorus ringing out around the church, accompanied by a professional orchestra. The evening began with some classics from the orchestra including the
“not only did some performances show a great deal of skill, but some also showed a very imaginative way of using technology”
exciting ‘Night on a Bare Mountain’ by Mussorgsky, followed by high class performances from the Junior Choir, Junior Chamber Choir, Senior Chamber Choir, SSA Choir and the Barbershop. What a fantastic evening from all performers! The period of Remembrance is always a special time of year and the Music Department was once again very much to the fore as the fallen in conflict were remembered at both the Remembrance Concert and the Remembrance Sunday Parade in Petersfield. The concert featured all six of the school’s choirs as well as the Senior Orchestra. Highlights on the programme included the stirring Barbershop male voice choir performance of ‘The Parting Glass’, and a dazzling display of violin virtuosity from soloist Anna Lezdkan playing Henryk Wieniawski’s ‘Polonaise in D Major’. Remembrance Sunday was once again a well supported occasion despite
grey skies and a distinct chill in the Market Square. The Senior Wind Band provided music for the act of worship which included a performance of Rob Wiffin’s deeply moving ‘Evening Hymn and Sunset’. On 11 November, the school community gathered for the College Act of Remembrance with the laying of wreaths, Last Post and solemn procession by all present through the Memorial Arch. Music for this occasion included a rendition of Elgar’s ‘Nimrod’ by the Senior String Quartet, and a selection of late Renaissance pieces played by a brass quintet. Cabaret evenings are always full of colourful performances, thanks to the fantastic staging, lighting and sound that bring the Sports Hall to life and this year’s Senior Cabaret at the end of the Autumn Term was no exception. Pupils audition for a slot in the Cabaret and these performances, combined with various ensembles (SSA, Jazz Band, Blues
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Group, Jazz Quartet, Senior Chamber Choir, Barbershop and Senior Choir) make for a very entertaining evening. Many of the vocal items were choreographed, including the 90 members of the Senior Choir who danced and moved to ‘This Will Be An Everlasting Love’. Throughout the year we have held a series of evening concerts that take place in the Assembly Hall, which are designed to give the pupils the opportunity to perform solos to a ‘friendly’ audience, whether they have just started learning an instrument, or whether they have reached the dizzy heights of Grade 8 and beyond. During the string and piano evening, we were treated to two dazzling displays of virtuoso playing from George Whittle on the piano playing the 3rd movement form Rachmaninoff’s ‘Concerto No 2’ (helped by Mrs. Seferinova who played the entire orchestra parts on a separate piano!) and Anna Lezdkan
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playing the wonderful ‘Introduction et Rondo Capriccioso’ by Saint-Saëns. These evenings also give some of our ensembles the chance to perform, including our smaller chamber ensembles. Through the year we have been treated to high quality playing from our recorder group, flute choir, clarinet group, saxophone ensemble, guitar groups, string quartets, wind quintet, numerous brass groups and our Chamber Choirs together with the Jazz Band, Blues Group, Junior Strings and Junior Wind Band. Lunchtime concerts have become a regular event, whether they are being held at St. Peter’s Church or the Assembly Hall as part of our Music4Lunch series. Through the year we have been treated to many splendid performances, such as Oliver Whittle form the First Year who sang a very cheeky and entertaining rendition of ‘Chim Chim Cher-ee’, to Harry Marden’s slick take on ‘Slam Dunk Funk’ on guitar, Amy Browne’s syncopated bass performance of ‘Do Balanco’ on the bass guitar through to Upper Sixth student Augustus
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Tranter, who was in the final stages of polishing his A Level performance pieces and delighted the crowd with a stunning performance of Debussy’s ‘La Cathédrale Engloutie’ on the piano. An evening that never fails to entertain is the Rock School Showcase evening and this year it introduced the school to a large number of talented new students from the First Year as well as many others, ranging all the way to the Upper Sixth. The groups performed music by Queen, Muse, The Eagles, Toto and many others. The main event – the rock bands – were supported in the first half by some very impressive singersongwriters such as Harry Marden and Florence Ransom in their fantastic duet. The end of the Autumn Term wouldn’t be complete without the yearly event to raise money for ‘Save the Children’. It is always a lovely evening where we listen to performances from various local schools. This year, the Churcher’s College contribution was
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led by the Junior Choir singing ‘A Whole New World’ from Aladdin and ‘Swing Low Sweet Chariot’, followed by two outstanding solos from Kirsty Foreman and Ross Calvert, concluding with the Senior Jazz Quartet. The Carol Service is always a beautiful end to the school term. The service started this year with candles lit and the Barbershop singing ‘Let There Be Peace on Earth’ from the back of the church, followed by ‘Once in Royal David’s City’ as the choir proceeded down the aisle. As usual, there was a great variety of Christmas music together with the superb Brass Group that joined in for some of the congregational carols. Amongst all these amazing concerts, our musicians have also been involved in other trips and events through the year, such as our GCSE Fourth Year pupils playing and singing to the residents of the Stroud and Downs nursing homes, the Rock School inspiring the hundreds of runners taking part in the annual Butser Challenge and the Junior Strings visiting our Junior School to take part
“Gus Tranter delighted the crowd with a stunning performance of Debussy’s ‘La Cathédral Engloutie’ on the piano”
in one of their full school assemblies. They introduced the younger pupils to the various string instruments, with some solo performances from James Moses on a double bass, Alec Scott–Plummer on the cello and Anna Lezdkan on the violin, followed by a very lively performance of a Queen medley from our Junior Strings together with the whole of the school joining in the clapping for ‘We Will Rock You’! Our A Level musicians are treated to a series of enrichment activities to enhance their skills and this year, the first of these was a Composition Skills workshop led by one of the UK’s most successful up and coming young composers, Robert Laidlow, where the students enjoyed an intensive three hour session analysing scores and receiving feedback on their own work. The second event was a trip to the Minerva theatre in Chichester to see a production of ‘The Butterfly Lion’ where the students received a fascinating insight into the evolution and staging of the show in a Q&A session before the performance with
the show’s producer. A visit to Surrey University’s Department of Music and Media for an introduction to the prestigious ‘Tonmeister’ sound engineering course included a fascinating talk, which introduced the students to careers ranging from film editing to audio forensics, together with a tour of the recording facilities. The last enrichment event of the year saw the students participating in a Conducting Masterclass, and for many of them this was their very first experience of trying to direct an ensemble. This informative and entertaining session was led by Surrey University’s Director of Conducting, Russell Keable and as the students soon realised, it is not as easy as it looks! Each year, we take a coachload of enthusiastic musicians to the West End to be inspired by the talented cast and musicians. This year we saw ‘The Phantom of the Opera’, one of the longest running shows in the West End. In the Spring term, 40 students attended an impressive concert at the Portsmouth Guildhall given by the
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Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra. The programme, with its enticing title ‘Power and Passion’, featured music by four late Romantic composers Tchaikovsky, Grieg, Rimsky-Korsakov and Sibelius. Highlights included the dazzling virtuosity of soloist Tom Poster in Grieg’s piano concerto, and the emotional intensity of Tchaikovsky’s overture to ‘Romeo and Juliet’. Interval ice creams also went down well! The Music Department can be proud of another outstanding year full of high quality, entertaining events and concerts. Given the number of performances that I have looked back on here, it doesn’t seem possible that we were in lockdown for more than a full term. I would like to wish our Upper Sixth musicians all the best for the future and say a massive “thank you” to them all for their outstanding contribution to the continued success of the Department. Mrs H Purchase
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Biology
The 2019-20 academic year saw many successes, and of course many challenges.
and Jude Franklin and Bronze medals for Katie Hutchinson, Ben Williams and Fin Egan.
In the Biology Challenge international competition, the Fourth Year students achieved a strong crop of results, with Gold medals for Matthew Russell and Robert Lewis, placing them in the top 5% of the 47,000 students who took part globally.
Congratulations to all these students and the other medal winners. The Upper Sixth enjoyed their trip to the Millennium Seed Bank at Wakehurst Place, and the First Years got to experience a full day as ‘Science Explorers’ in October. Fourth Years had an interesting experience on the whole-day ‘GCSE Science Live!’ trip to London, to hear speakers such as Prof Robert Winston and Prof Jim AlKhalili, but sadly the trips and visits later on in the year were unfortunate casualties of lockdown. The Lower Sixth Biology field trip to Slapton Sands in Devon was lost, as was the First Years’ favourite day – Hawkeye Falconry.
The Lower Sixth students achieved great success in the Intermediate Biology Olympiad, with a superb four Gold medals for Elizabeth Church, Catherine Gallagher, Ben Cooley and Katie Harris; Charlotte Jackson achieved a Silver; and Bronze medals were awarded to Will Bentley, James Cathrew, Hari Tote, Joss Hall, Sophie Porteous, Tim Matthews and Alice Hewett. The Upper Sixth students also did well in the senior version of this competition, the Biology Olympiad, with Silver medals for Grace Moritz
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Ms M Westwood
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“Fourth Year students achieved a strong crop of results�
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Chemistry I will try to avoid the clichés used to describe the academic year 2019-20, but it was clearly a year of two halves. Mr Chen joined us at the start of the Autumn Term and very quickly settled into the Department and established a reputation for inspiring the pupils; there was often an excited queue of First Year pupils waiting outside his lab waiting for their ‘Chenistry’ lesson! Dr Stratford left at the end of the academic year heading up to the Wirral to be close to her family and will be greatly missed by pupils and staff alike. Sadly, lockdown and the prior restriction of activities prevented us from doing some of our planned activities and events, with the Cambridge Chemistry Challenge for the Lower Sixth and the Chemistry of Art sessions for the Fifth Year being the most notable casualties.
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Chemistry Olympiad
This is aimed at the most able Upper Sixth students and is used to select the best four students in the country to form the UK schools’ team which competes in the International Chemistry Olympiad. Just over 9,000 of the best A Level chemists entered round one this year, with the top 754 (8.2%) awarded a Gold certificate, the next 2,200 a silver and the next 3,284 a Bronze. About a third of those that enter do not achieve a Bronze. Nine students from Churcher’s College entered the Chemistry Olympiad this year. Their results were: Ollie Mutch George Whittle William Hipsey Thomas Parmenter Tim Orchard Peter Hindson Noel Shipley Callum Francis Katie Hutchinson
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Gold Award Gold Award Gold Award Silver Award Silver Award Silver Award Silver Award Silver Award Silver Award
They are our best results in my 17 years here (and, I think, ever!). Sadly, due to the lockdown the Lower Sixth version that takes place in June was cancelled.
Cosmetics Club
Some enthusiastic Second Year pupils helped by Charlotte Evans and Ben Dakin, made soaps, lip balms, body butter and more under the expert eyes of Dr Stratford and Mrs Dannatt. I am very pleased that Mr Chen will take over the running of the Cosmetics Club; his enthusiasm and Mrs Dannatt’s expertise should be a perfect combination.
GCSE Science Live!
The Fourth Year enjoyed a variety of talks given by leading scientists on a range of topics. Highlights for the pupils were unsurprisingly Prof Robert Winston but also Prof Jim Al-Khalili, whose ability to explain complicated ideas in physics make
him a familiar face on television and voice on radio.
enthusiasm of the students made it a real high point of the week.
ChemSoc
Explosive Chemistry
This was a new club and one that, ironically, was helped by the lockdown. It was aimed at the Sixth Form to provide them with a forum to investigate, present and discuss chemistry ideas beyond the scope of the A Level course. The problem has always been finding a time when the students are free to meet, in particular one that doesn’t clash with the other extra-curricular activities. Lockdown created a little more space for activities that could be done via Teams meetings and Wednesday lunchtime became its regular home. Students presented and discussed topics ranging from ‘The Chemistry of the Early Universe’, ‘The Chemistry of Oil Painting’, ‘The Chemistry of Cavities and Fillings’ to ‘The Chemistry of a Hangover’. There were far too many topics to mention them all but the
In November a group of First Year pupils investigated the chemistry behind fireworks, looking at how to get different coloured flames as well as how to make things burn really well! In the Spring Term the Second Year academy group learnt about gunpowder and other explosives. After the success of the sessions last year and the popularity of the fireworks session, the programme was expanded. For obvious reasons practical work and demonstrations in this area are more limited; while the pupils can make their own paints, making their own high explosives is something that is prevented by some serious safety and legal issues! The pupils were able to investigate aspects of explosives, such as the role of oxidising agents, the difference
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between substances burning and exploding, and the difference in power output when the same fuel burns or detonates.
Fifth Year Bridging Course
After the cancellation of the exams, Departments created bridging courses to give the pupils a taste of what A Level would be like and to give them a bit of a head start on some of the ideas that would be covered. The whole Department worked hard to create lessons on a range of topics that we hoped would inspire the pupils as well as prepare them. At the end of the course it was very heartening to see the numbers of pupils opting to do Chemistry at A Level increase to record numbers. Dr D Dunster
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Physics Every academic year can claim the title of being unique in many ways, but this year I think we can also add exceptional to the tagline. With the final part of the Spring Term and the entire Summer Term taking place remotely, we had a challenging time to maintain the interest and academic pace and rigour for the students. The students, in turn, matched the challenge with their enthusiasm and commitment to work from home. We did of course have a full Autumn Term and it is here I would like to begin the stories of success throughout the year. Our Upper Sixth Physics students have been fantastic in their academic approach and we had a rich wealth of talent to showcase this year. A record seven students applied to study Physics/Engineering at Oxbridge this year, firstly passing the entrance exam and later attending their interviews in December. Three of the team, Peter Hindson, George Whittle and William Hipsey were successful and have all now taken up their places.
those individuals. To achieve Bronze you were within the top 16%, Silver 13% and Gold 6%. The Top Gold was awarded to only those individuals within the top 4.5% in the country. George and William also then took a second paper and George was then invited to the selection for the International Olympiad team, eventually curtailed due to Covid-19, but he has been working in the reserve team at home throughout the summer! The Spring Term also had successes with three teams taking part in the annual SATRO challenges, a Junior, Middle and Lower Sixth team all took part in the event in Guildford last year with the Lower Sixth team reaching the final after coming second in their heat. Sadly, the final was cancelled but we hope that they may have the chance to apply again this coming academic year.
Some of those students also wanted a further challenge, the British Physics Olympiad (BPhO) and the table shows the outstanding results of
The Summer Term of gorgeous weather and online teaching and learning began and just how do you undertake practicals at home? You raid the kitchen and your workshop of course, for flour, elastic bands, tennis balls and paint! The students did an absolutely stunning job of ‘Kitchen Physics’, investigating Hooke’s Law, gravity and the possibility of human
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missions to Mars. From the First Year to the Upper Sixth, we were stunned into silence with the achievements and ingenuity of our brilliant teams. With the cancellation of summer exams, we also created bespoke online courses for our Fifth Year and Upper Sixth students. Developing the overlapping skills needed for A Level or University isn’t easy, but a range of topics from fluid dynamics, Formula One cars driving upside-down and Star Trek relativistic Physics kept the students busy in the Summer Term and into the early holidays. The accompanying photos show some of the wonderful projects completed. Mr M Kelly
“just how do you undertake practicals at home? You raid the kitchen and your workshop of course!�
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Computing This year has limited, but not curtailed, our usual amazing stories of cups and awards and has been a remarkable year, not without its successes both inside and beyond the physical or virtual classroom. In October, we came away with a cup from the Lockheed Martin Cyber Quest Competition, which will be the last for our amazingly talented Upper Sixth. They were undoubtedly a unique cohort and it is sad to say goodbye to them without the parties and high spirits of ending their school career but they will live in my memory forever as champion cup winners! They have left their legacy at school, not just in my trophy cabinet! Sam Mearns was an inspiration to others to explore web technologies; he already has an amazing portfolio of professional jobs already under his belt and his legacy will live on in
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school with our intranet home page; he also fixed our sign on issue for Firefly and worked with Tom Milner to produce a Sixth Form registration App that only works in range of the GPS coordinates of the school. Not even Covid-19 held them back, and in fact lockdown yielded even more amazing products. Josh Coates’ Maths questions generator that is now in use by the Maths Department; he hopes to sell it commercially. All in addition to their projects required for A Level. I know I shall be hearing about their successes in the future but I will truly miss them. It is sad that our Fifth Years missed out on the opportunity to sit exams and show off their talents, but they instead had the opportunity to extend their knowledge by learning Java. Some students will benefit from this in their A Level by getting ahead
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and others, who are not taking the A Level, will go into their career with a valuable insight into this highly sought-after skill. Before lockdown the Second Years entered a competition to design an App for entry into a national Vodafone Digital Creator’s Challenge. One group of girls got into the national final with their proposal for an App called ‘Preggo’ to support woman through their pregnancy, combined with an additional piece of hardware to sense movement worn on a waistband to monitor contractions and alert when the time comes to call the hospital. Unfortunately, the final was cancelled and we await their judgement remotely. The usual coding competition for the First Years was cancelled so we adapted it to make a Scratch game
CHURCHER’S COLLEGE | CAREER BITES
AN INSIGHT
or story or animation on the theme of the Coronavirus. We had a lot of fun shooting viruses, simulating the spread and dispensing great advice through stories, quests and quizzes and even a rap! We entered junior and senior teams for the all-day Cyber Centurion Challenge, made up of students showing great promise and relishing a challenge outside the curriculum. Computing is one of those subjects that lends itself to stretch and challenge and some up and coming students worthy of mention go way above and beyond the scope of the lesson and homework time. Oliver Fogelin, who achieved an A* in an IGCSE in his spare time, helped us achieve the Lockheed Martin cup and added some amazing accomplishments to his portfolio, narrowly missing out on a trip to the
INTO THE
Games industry BY PETER MOLYNEUX
MONDAY 10 FEBRUARY 2020 4.15 - 5.15PM
CHURCHER’S COLLEGE | LECTURE THEATRE
USA for the final of a Google coding competition. Ollie Williams and Will McIntyre in the Second Year achieved their Silver certificates in the iDEA (Inspiring Digital Enterprise Award), an international programme that helps develop digital, enterprise and employability skills. Several other students put in many extra hours of work and achieved a Bronze. This year’s Third Year ICT cohort benefitted from Mr Maguire’s teaching; his enthusiasm and love of tech clearly inspires the students. Sadly, we were not able to run the functional skills certificate this year but students wanting to take it will have a chance in the new year. Clubs continue to thrive and in the Department we offer an ever popular Gaming Club that takes over the computing rooms on a Monday and Friday lunchtime and even continued
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“they have left their legacy at school, not just in my trophy cabinet!”
remotely into lockdown. Coding Club also got off the ground and will continue in some form in September. Digital Leaders continue to offer their time, trying out new software and hardware and giving their insight into our ongoing strategy. We really enjoyed the BETT show in January, looking at an overwhelming display of hardware and software and teaching and learning ideas. Technology has undoubtedly been a key part of this lockdown and we also look forward to blending old and new ways of working to utilise our new skills in making next year even more exciting. Mrs K McCathie
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Design & Technology
Following on from my review of the last academic year there have certainly been great developments within the Design and Technology realm. Our new building has raced on since the old Goodfield block was torn down in September 2019 and rising from the dust the new facility will certainly cater well for the students when we move back over from our temporary facility on the netball courts. We were pleased that our project submissions which make up half of the course in both A Level and GCSE, were completed just prior to the lockdown in March, which gave us the comfort of knowing that the students had done their best and were able to demonstrate fully how creative and hardworking they all are. I know that many were disappointed that they missed the opportunity to display their work in the annual Design and Technology private view exhibition. To this end it is our intention to create a photo book which showcases all the work from the examination groups in lieu of the traditional end of year show.
in Design and Technology. In November our Sixth Form students visited the Emmanuel Centre in London to participate in the Design in Action seminar, aimed at inspiring young designers to follow a path in design and design manufacture. Further excursions were planned, including a visit to MINI in Oxford and a trip to Engineering in Action which serves a similar purpose to the Design in Action visit. However, a certain COVID-19 put those planned visits on ice and they will be rescheduled for later in the year.
We have endeavoured to increase the variety of offsite visits we run to further widen our students’ experience
Our lockdown experience within Design and Technology enabled us to vary our usual curriculum and put more emphasis on the designing aspect of the subject. Students were tasked with more design-based activities which culminated with the Product in a Tin competition. All students in Years One to Three were given the task of designing a product which would be compact enough to fit inside a Pringles tube. Students had to select a target audience, design product banding and then manufacture their product using only the resources they had at their disposal at home. Given the large proportion of online work students
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had done we were aiming at getting them away from their screens. We did resort to bribery and monetised the competition with Amazon vouchers for prizes. We continue to develop the curriculum and are looking forward to introducing a new textiles project into the Second Year curriculum where students will make a mobile phone ‘Dry Bag’. They will use technical textiles to protect their mobile devices from the elements and we hope that the product will be one they all want to take away with them. As we look forward to 2021 we are eager to relocate to our new home, due to take place at the end of this year. Excitingly, we are looking forward to inhabiting the new space and welcome the addition of some new equipment, including some more CAM (computer aided manufacture) machinery to enable students to design on computer and have a machine manufacture parts of their product. We will see what 2021 brings but hopefully it will be a full academic year and one which sees the back of the current tumultuous climate. Mr S Edington
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EPQ
This was a record-breaking year for the EPQ at Churcher’s College. We had 23 students who completed their projects, which is a fantastic achievement for all of those students. They were the first EPQ group to benefit from weekly taught EPQ lessons in the Lower Sixth, where they learned invaluable research skills. We also had a fantastic array of projects this year. As always there was a huge range of artefacts from Alex Murray’s short film based on Stanley Kubrick, to Will Duke’s shepherd’s hut (pictured opposite) and Pippa Madden’s story in the style of Roald Dahl. The traditional 5,000 word essays covered a huge variety of topics from Maddie Macey’s discussion of Bioluminescence and Matt Holland’s investigation into the
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Great Depression and Financial Crisis, to Josh Byford’s essay on why the Flying Scotsman was saved from scrap in 1963. There is no doubt that EPQ is the only place for students to pursue such a unique range of projects. The students in this cohort also benefitted from trips to Southampton University Library and ever increasing links with our own Library. Through both of these they will have learned extremely useful skills for their future studies. With another large cohort coming through into the Upper Sixth we are looking forward to an equally successful year in 2021. Mr M Hill
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“EPQ is the only place for students to pursue such a unique range of projects”
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Curriculum Support
“The sun will shine on you again.” Captain Sir Tom Moore
Curriculum Support gives extra tuition to any pupils who need additional help. A short-term intervention of a few individual lessons may reap rewards. Alternatively, some pupils have weekly lessons to support any learning difficulty. During lockdown, the decision was made in school that the emphasis would be on supporting each individual Curriculum Support pupil by telephone and email with any
issues, or with difficulties related to online learning. The message was a positive one, giving hope, reminding pupils that we will get through this and come out stronger. As always, Curriculum Support was tailored to the needs of each pupil. It involved a variety of measures and learning interventions such as advising on school work and giving strategies, offering encouragement and knowledge of ways to approach
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the work, listening to any worries, monitoring progress and liaising with the Head of House. Mrs L Blackman
Sports Science It seems like a long time ago that we survived the Autumn Term and celebrated with the Eaton Games. The Upper Sixth outdid themselves and dressed up their mixed hockey team as characters from the Nativity! An outstanding effort by all resulted in a great tournament commemorating Marc and Cathy Eaton’s founding of academic PE at Churcher’s. We also were very fortunate to be visited by Fiona Pocock, an Old Churcherian and ex-England Rugby player and Susannah Townsend, who represented England as a Hockey
player. Our Fourth Year teams and Sports Scientists were able to hear about professional training and the road Fiona and Susannah had taken to elite sport. Then, sadly, in the Spring Term we moved to remote learning due to Covid-19 and our various summer trips and plans were cancelled. The results were very good and I commend our Fifth Years and Upper Sixth who had to cope with a lot of changes and cancellations. Mrs L Snowball
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VIRGIN GALACTIC SPA
4TH YEAR TO U6TH
SATRO CHALLENGE ENGINEERING 2ND, 4TH & L6TH
STEAMSHIP
SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING CLUB 2ND - 4TH YEARS
INEOS TEAM UK AMERICA’S CUP STEM COMPETION ALL YEARS
GREEN POWER
ELECTRIC CAR ENGINEERING CHALLENGE ALL YEARS
DIGITAL LEADERS CLUB ALL YEARS
STEAM Churcher’s has continued to recognise the importance of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics), encouraging students to discover the links between their academic studies and the real world application of the skills learned in class. Despite losing some of our flagship events planned for the Summer Term, our students still enjoyed some remarkable opportunities. Our Lower Sixth team were awarded second place nationally in the SATRO Problem Solving Challenge, having won their regional heat in which they competed against other schools to design and build a device to gently lower a cargo of sweets from a free-
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DARK ROOM PHOTOGRAPH ALL YEARS
V
standing tower. Teams from the Second and Third Year also competed and demonstrated great creativity and skill in the event. Engineers and a future astronaut from Virgin Galactic and Virgin Orbit took part in two video conferences with Churcher’s students, providing a unique insight into the challenges of manned and unmanned spaceflight respectively. The video conference format provided a fantastic opportunity for our students to put their questions directly to the experts, who provided genuine inspiration with their answers. The STEAMship club experimented with a new format: a very open-
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ended project to build and explain a ‘demonstration of electromagnetic effects’. The results were remarkable, thanks to the perseverance and ingenuity of our Second and Third Years and a little help from Sixth Former Charlie Morris, including a fully functioning miniature Tesla coil and, eventually, a working train made from nothing more than a coil of wire and a single cell battery! Dr R Whittle
ACE CHAT
H
CHEMISTRY OF COSMETICS CLUB 2ND YEAR
“despite losing some of our flagship events planned for the Summer Term, our students still enjoyed some remarkable opportunities”
SPEED OF LIGHT PROJECT U6TH
GOPHERS SCIENCE CLUB 1ST YEAR
Explorer Dome Science Day 1ST YEAR
ALL YEARS
GRAPHICS CLUB ALL YEARS
CHURCHER’S
HY CLUB
CAREERS
SHELL BRIGHT IDEAS CHALLENGE
VIRGIN ORBIT SPACE CHAT 4TH YEAR TO U6TH
Virgin Galactic GOOGLE HANGOUT
VIDEO CONFERENCE WITH ENGINEERS AND A FUTURE ASTRONAUT FROM THE VIRGIN GALACTIC SPACE PROGRAMME
COLLEGE
ALL YEARS
BITES
CODING CLUB
CLUBS & EVENTS
TUESDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2019 4.15PM - 5.30PM OPEN TO 4TH YEAR TO U6TH CHURCHER’S COLLEGE | LECTURE THEATRE
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Rugby This season saw a change in our fixture card with a number of new opponents, providing us with new challenges. St John’s Beaumont proved a stiff first test for some of the younger age groups and the Seniors were able to get the better of the Oratory School. Towards the end of the season we achieved a clean sweep against Pangbourne College along with some convincing wins for the seniors against our local rivals, Lord Wandsworth College. We had a successful cup run with the U15s who reached the area plate final, away against the sporting powerhouse Wellington College. With the high turn outs at training and the enthusiasm with the boys’ commitment to rugby, we are confident that we will continue to go from strength to strength as we welcome our new Head of Rugby, Ben Skirving.
1st XV
The statistics don’t tell the whole story, but they do give us a start with the 1st XV playing 17 matches winning nine and drawing one, so a successful season with a 59% win ratio. It was just a shame to lose some close ones that we could have swung our way (Gordons, PGS, Salesian and Pangborne spring to mind). One result that does stand out is the victory at Shiplake with the last kick of the game - a good memory but more grey hairs for me on the touchline.
have been top of the tackle count over the season. Both showed huge commitment and should be proud of their efforts - being leaders of the Senior Squad is much more than the work put in on the pitch on match days and this pair should be proud of their efforts both on and off the pitch. This season was very much a squad effort with a total of 32 players representing the 1st XV. We also had over 45 active players with the senior squad, which is a testament to the commitment and enjoyment of the game that this group of players had. This was a talented side with many voices and at times, they could be excellent particularly with the ball in hand. Perhaps we lacked a bit of patience in that we did have a tendency to go for the high-risk killer move too early and a little more patience would have led to better results. However, their skills and ability to work as a team was shown by a fine run in the Hampshire Cup where we ultimately failed to defend our title in the final where we came up against a fine Peter Symonds side who deserved the victory on the day.
2nd XV
The Second XV set themselves two goals at the start of the season: to be the hardest working team in the school and secondly, to be the most fun team to play for. It was wonderful to look back at the end of the season and say we smashed 50% of our goals!
The squad was ably led by Joe Knowles who was also top scorer, backed up by Ollie Mutch who must
The boys showed outstanding character in taking the rough with the smooth and were competitive in
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every encounter. However, despite their efforts, some sterling defence and mind games against strong opponents at Reading Bluecoat’s, PGS and Shiplake, they found themselves starring down the barrel of a winless season (an opening day draw with Oratory aside). However, a trip to riverside Pangbourne proved to be their salvation. In the driving rain they rallied from behind to win an enthralling match, with a standout individual try from stand-off Fin Egan the high point. A first victory was no more than the boys deserved for their efforts and resilience and capped a fine, fun-filled season for the team and plenty of great memories for the departing Upper Sixth.
U16As
A most enjoyable season with a thoroughly brilliant group of personalities unfortunately fizzled out as the opposition teams heard of their strength and pulled out of the final three fixtures. Indeed, with a hugely powerful pack, with talented props and hookers, we did not have a contested scrum after half-term, which must be a record! Whilst the opposition might have seen that we were big and powerful, they hadn’t counted on the fact that the pack was also fit and fast across the board and so no scrums meant we would get to the breakdown early and dominate there instead. The backs, too, had an enviable mix of brains, brawn, guile and deftness, allowing them to break the gainline in a plethora of ways and at speed. As a whole team, they
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harried and rushed their opponents, never giving them any space on the ball. More important than their obvious rugby talents, this was also a squad of fantastic individuals, a real credit to the school. Invariably polite (their handshaking knew no bounds), they listened and learnt, they were full of character and spark, and they tried hard for each other. A truly great squad to work with!
to field B Teams nonetheless they were proud to finish the season with a 100% record!
U15s
It was a short but very successful season for the U16Bs. With such a strong A team, the Bs were fortunate to be bolstered by players like Max Golding, Jack Wright, Joe Allen and Alex Lambrianou, all of whom would be nailed on A Teamers in most age groups. Golding and Lambrianou took Lord Wandsworth College apart in the first game picking some very direct lines, scoring try after try. Reading Bluecoat were slightly stiffer opposition but they were no match for our combination of forward power and midfield pace. Our last game against Pangbourne was also closely matched but again, stoic tackling, relentless recycling of ball through the phases and direct running lines proved too much for the opposition and we ran out 19-0 winners. The boys were disappointed to be let down by the likes of PGS and KES who were unable
The U15 squad had an excellent season with nearly 50 boys representing the school. The A Team, under the guidance of skipper Ben Bushell, won 14 of their 16 games scoring 569 points in the process, and conceding only 153. Jack Thomas at fly-half was the top scorer with an impressive 212 points. The final game of the season was a defeat to Wellington College in the last 16 of the NatWest Cup; despite the disappointment, being one of the top 16 teams in the country is a magnificent achievement for a school such as ours, and the boys deserve our congratulations. The team had strength in every position and often dominated their opponents. A number of individuals must be congratulated for their selection for county and academy sides, which bodes very well for the future. Not to be outdone by the As, the B team won five of their seven games, though it was disappointing with such an enthusiastic squad that so many games were cancelled by opponents. As with the As, there was real strength across the squad, and many of the players forced their way into consideration
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U16Bs
for the A Team. The biggest margin of victory was a 50-0 win against PGS, but the best victory was the 17-12 win over Reading Blue Coat School.
U14s
The A squad made tremendous progress throughout the season and it is no coincidence that the harder they worked the more successful they became. They played 11 games during the season winning six and losing five but what an absolute contrast the season turned out to be. In the first half of the Autumn Term, the boys had managed just one victory from six, but boy did they turn that around, by winning all of the remaining games in the season. They worked incredibly hard as a collective unit, understanding the game plan and having the confidence that comes with winning games. In total 28 boys represented the A team, which is hugely encouraging moving forward as it means that there will be fierce competition for starting places in the future. We also managed to provide plenty of opportunities for boys to assume leadership positions within the group and this will undoubtedly strengthen the group moving forward. It was quite a season, too, for the B Team, making fantastic progress as the weeks went on. It was a shame to lose some players as they
made their debut for the A squad, but this was down to their hard work and commitment at training and on match days. As a squad we scored an impressive 275 points in 11 games. It is difficult to pick out one highlight from an impressive season, but I think if I had to choose, it would be our convincing 43-0 win over Pangbourne College. It is an exciting thought to see where this team will go in the near future. Well done to all of you on an outstanding season.
its rugby. At training they enjoyed learning and perfecting new skills and ways of seeing the game. Big wins against St. John’s Beaumont, KES Southampton and Halliford proved we were a team to be reckoned with! We produced some great running rugby and loved trying to get the ball out wide and play expansive and exciting rugby. A super group of boys, a super season and no doubt that they will be representing the school for many years to come.
U13s
U12s
The U13s were a pleasure to coach: always willing to improve and challenge themselves. On the pitch we had plenty of decision makers and their creativity grew game by game. A highlight was a close game against the Royal Alexander and Albert School which was brimming with attacking rugby. Fortunately, we came out better off with a 3530 victory. Over the season the boys won 50% of their matches and convincingly beat Salesian which was a positive turnaround from the start of the season where we were taught a lesson by St John’s Beaumont. Such was the depth of the B squad that there was high competition for places throughout the season. Energetic, committed and skilful, we showed all the attributes of a team that loved
What a wonderful start to the boys’ Rugby career at Churcher’s! Every week we have had a minimum of 45 boys out to training and one week we peaked at 58. They have embraced everything about the rugby program and thrown themselves head first into developing their skills. Over the course of the season we managed to get 66 boys to play competitively against opposing schools and positions across all three teams were fought over all season. I have never had a situation where five boys played scrum half for the A Team, all to an equally good standard, all bringing their character and individuality to the role.
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Girls’ Hockey
The girls luckily had no issues with disruption and their season ran untainted, fulfilling a whopping 179 fixtures with our 16 teams.
1st XI
We lost a lot of players last season so as a result we had a large influx from our Lower Sixth, which led to a disjointed start to the season with the first match coming after just two training sessions. As expected, we did start slowly, in fact, in our first match at half time we were 5-0 down away at Gordon’s. We lost the match 6-0 with a vastly improved, more cohesive second half performance and some link up play and potential partnerships started to emerge. After the tough start we then thrashed PGS 7-1 and were gradually improving our phases of play. We played really well on hosting Wellington College albeit losing 3-1 and were unfortunate to go down 2-0 to Reeds in the National Plate competition in a really good game of hockey. By this point, some
of the hockey we were playing was really progressive and morale was high as the girls knew how much they had developed through the season. The season closed with a dominant performance against Christ’s Hospital. We had the vast majority of possession and the midfield pulled the strings, passing Christ’s off the pitch. To keep a clean sheet and score two from penalty corners topped it off nicely.
2nd XI
The 2nd XI squad enjoyed an excellent term, under the captaincy of Georgia Chapman. Competition for places in the team was high, with a large and enthusiastic squad, predominantly comprising of Lower Sixth players, all keen to train and play. The highlight of the term was qualifying for the England Hockey tier IV regional tournament, having qualified at the Hampshire Trophy tournament. At the regional final we held our own, which was a tough ask bearing in mind the majority of teams there were
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actually A Teams. On the pitch we worked incredibly hard and gradually developed our own brand of passing hockey based on a 3-4-3 formation.
U16s
The U16 players were motivated and a pleasure to coach, with season highlights against Cranleigh: to quote Mr Jones, “it was like the Battle of the Alamo”! They gave Cranleigh a great game in monsoon conditions and even under immense pressure managed a draw. They received possibly the sternest test by drawing St George’s College in the Cup first round, as their record is enviable; however, this team put in a truly gutsy performance gave them a run for their money, much to their surprise, even if they did run out 3-0 victors. Against PGS in the plate, they won a really entertaining 4-2 match, lining up Wycombe High School next, where unfortunately the run ended, courtesy of a 2-1 defeat. Amy Dickens showed the most development over the season,
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becoming a solid defender with an ability to read the play and make a strong low tackle whilst retaining her brilliant attacking ability. Liv Knowles was a fantastic engine in the midfield, her stamina and movement was brilliant and won her lots of plaudits. Alice Robinson showed great pace, skill and creativity up front and in the away fixture against LWC simply tore them apart, scoring a hattrick and providing an assist in a 5-2 victory. For the Bs, the season was one of considerable development, both collectively and individually, with every member of the team improving their playing credentials. The unquestioned highlight of the campaign was a tour de force performance away at Cranleigh, with a 0-2 victory being a very fair reflection of a game which for periods Churcher’s totally dominated. Such was the fluidity and guile of our play, that a watching parent described the hockey as sheer ‘poetry in motion’. A memorable season, in which the
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girls grew in confidence, and this was reflected in their excellent play.
U15s
These girls are impressive not only in the style of hockey they play, but in their unity and work rate. There have been moments this season of text book hockey, with high tempo, creative game play evident throughout. With the girls showing flair in all of their performances and most excitingly always having the confidence to try new things out on the pitch, and for some individuals having the adaptability to play anywhere on the pitch, creating the dream of ‘total hockey’ within the squad. A real highlight was the exemplary performance in a 2-0 win over a City of London Freemen’s with two well worked team goals and a clean sheet. Scoring outstanding team goals was a mainstay of the team this season, but equally was the work rate of the midfield and composed defensive performances; the whole
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squad deserves a mention. The Bs also had an incredible start to the season – unbeaten in the first four and only conceding one goal. What a season this could be... Unfortunately, the fairy tale was not to continue, in terms of results at least, as we then failed to win any of our next eight. However, the girls continued to enjoy their hockey with a number having the opportunity to play for the As. A highlight was edging out local rivals PGS 1-0 in an epic encounter and whilst we lost the goal fest 6-3, the match away against Wellington College saw us play some enjoyable, expansive hockey.
U14s
Throughout this season they have had some excellent performances, and the Captain and Vice-Captain positions were highly sought after. So, at the end of each match, all the team voted for their man of the match and those players became Captain and Vice-Captain for the next match.
“the hockey we were playing was really progressive and morale was high as the girls knew how much they had developed through the season�
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Rosie Porter deserves congratulations for receiving eight ‘Player of the Match’ titles. Also, goal keeper Molly Ashworth received three. They came up against some very strong teams, but the girls never gave up and continued to try and win the game right until the very end. An impressive 28 girls represented the B Team this season, playing with such enthusiasm and showing excellent commitment to the squad. There were some close games, however, our highlight was beating City of London Freemen’s 3-0. The girls played their best hockey in their
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last game against Lord Wandsworth College, which finished in a 2-2 draw but it saw them playing as a team and putting into place everything they had worked on all season.
U13s
The Second Year girls displayed some exciting and skilled performances over the season. They focussed on playing as a team and less as individuals which proved to be a more positive strategy. For the As, unfortunately it wasn’t to be in the cup losing out to Prior’s Field where, frustratingly,
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we never really got out of second gear and then we lost in the plate to a strong Alleyn’s outfit in the plate. However, a real high was a 3-2 victory over local rivals KES, secured with a well worked penalty corner routine. The Bs got stronger and stronger as the season went on, winning their last six matches in a row. The Cs had a pleasing performance in the last game of the season against LWC which saw us edge them out in a five goal thriller! The D team didn’t draw a single match – they won three and lost three and had ended up with a positive goal
“there have been moments this season of text book hockey, with high tempo, creative game play evident throughout”
difference of plus one, including a trip over to the Isle of Wight where they beat Ryde Bs 4-0.
U12s
A highly enjoyable and successful introduction to hockey for the First Year girls; it is a challenging task, going into their first round of fixtures having known their teammates for barely a week, and possibly never taken part in a competitive hockey fixture before. However, week one produced some sterling fixtures against Gordon’s School, with tight
wins for the A and C sides, and very competitive draws for the B and D teams; from that moment on the girls were hooked and would spend the remainder of the season training exceptionally hard and fighting tooth and nail in every fixture regardless of the opposition. The nature of team sport is that there is always a bigger fish; in this case St. George’s Weybridge and St. John’s Leatherhead would prove to be our toughest opponents. However, week by week the challenge was to improve on last week’s performance, regardless of the
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result, and I think that the girls would all admit that, in that respect, they were all incredibly successful.
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“drawing 1-1 under floodlights in the driving rain at St. George’s College would be the grittiest performance I have witnessed yet”
Boys’ Hockey This season was a strange one for the boys with the Covid-19 disruption. This resulted in some of our regular block fixtures being cancelled which were replaced with some internal matches, playing the year group above and beneath them. I was more than pleasantly surprised in how well the fixtures were received by everyone and the attitude in which they were played. Whilst acknowledging that the standard of our hockey continues to progress, these internal matches gave some teams a much sterner test than they would have received against our usual opposition.
It was an exciting, if disappointingly short, season for the 1st XI. Led
very ably by captain Thomas Smith, there was a thrilling blend of Upper and Lower Sixth that many had been waiting to see finally have the opportunity to play together. There is no embarrassment in losing to good sides, and the mark of a good team is how they rise to the challenge; though disappointed in an early exit in the national cup at Eastbourne College, the difference was not in the quality of the teams but in an outstanding performance by their goalkeeper – nothing was going to beat him that day! To bounce back and follow that with good performances and excellent wins was testament to both the ability and work ethic of this team; that 28 players represented the 1st XI this season is perhaps a true
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1st XI
reflection of the strength in depth at this age group. There were highlights aplenty, but perhaps back-to-back wins against strong rivals Seaford College in the national cup and our block respectively, would be up there, although arguably drawing 1-1 under floodlights in the driving rain at St. George’s College would be the grittiest performance I have witnessed yet by a Churcher’s side.
2nd XI
The boys enjoyed a fantastic hockey term, under graduating captain Tom Wild. With a large and enthusiastic squad, and a full set of fixtures, the team performed excellently, employing a passing style of play with a focus on moving the ball forward quickly.
They trained hard and played hard, with notable performances including away wins at St George’s College and King Edward’s Southampton. The camaraderie, team spirit and excellent sportsmanship made coaching the team an absolute pleasure. Having won through the Hampshire Trophy county round in second place behind a strong Peter Symonds College side, the later rounds were not able to be played this year. Who knows how far the team might have progressed?
U16s
The thing that sets this exceptionally talented group of boys apart is the intensity of their training. As last year’s national champions, the As were always going to have a target
on their backs with many viewing us as their biggest match of the season. They were crowned County Champions on a day when we did not played our best hockey, however, we got the job done against, it must be said, inferior opposition. The National Cup was the arena where we were always going to get truly tested, shown in a particularly feisty match against St George’s College, who we had beaten on penalty strokes in last year’s national final. Pleasingly, we beat them again 2-0 in a very solid performance. The B team lost 2-0 in the same block but the Bs very much pushed St George’s and it is nice to know that we can compete with a school of that size. The B Team’s best performance of the season was against
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KES, looking really dangerous going forward and scoring a lovely counter attack goal that would have been worthy to win any standard of match in the 3-1 victory. As for the As, the performance of the season was the demolition of Hurstpierpoint in the National Cup. Hurst have consistently been a tough opponent but the team played the most clinical first half of school hockey I have witnessed! We were 8-0 up at half time and eased out to an 11-3 victory. The quarterfinals proved our undoing, losing 4-0 to a very disciplined Repton who in their midfield alone had two England players.
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“their strength was noticeable, struggling at times for opposition that could fully test this talented, competitive group”
U15s
The A Team continued to prove their talent, athleticism and hard work by building on their impressive regional result last year. Expanding their diversity of play as a team and ability to adapt and read phases of the game as a team and individuals, they have become a more structured and disciplined side who are a force to be reckoned with, playing an exciting brand of attacking hockey scoring 40 goals in nine matches. Their strength was noticeable, struggling at times for opposition that could fully test this talented, competitive group. Locally we cruised past PGS 9-0, Seaford College 3-0 and RGS 4-2. Disappointingly, we were edged out of the national cup by KES in agonising fashion, losing 5-4 on penalties after a 1-1 draw at full time! We were not at our best but we secured revenge defeating the same team 2-0 later in the season, the boys really learnt from this experience and are a better side as a result. Meanwhile, the B Team enjoyed an extremely competitive and successful season; regularly turning out 16 players for each game such was the demand and the high numbers attending training. All players were hard-working, enthusiastic, and always keen to improve their skills. They had excellent victories against Ardingly (4-0), Seaford College (4-0)
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and PGS (3-0) with a hard-fought draw against KES (1-1), but the most pleasing aspect was the unity and enthusiasm of all the squad.
U14s
This year has been a real turning point for the U14s as a hockey team and we are starting to see the solid foundations of a team that can not only play expansive 11-a-side hockey, but one that is focussed in training and determined to do well. There are some natural leaders beginning to take charge of the team and, as they lead by example, the other boys are starting to adapt. We have regularly had more than 40 boys at training and have easily been able to field a C Team on multiple occasions. This will only help the squad to improve as competition for places is keenly fought over.
U13s
The U13 boys have had a terrific season where every game has been a goal fest! All four teams scored some wonderful team goals and many times the opposition umpire put down his whistle and applauded our style of play. Overhead passes from one ‘D’ to the other volleyed in were certainly nice to behold but the most pleasing for me were the times that every player showed the hunger to touch the ball and simply passed the ball into the net around the goalie. The
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boys proved far too strong for nearly all opponents and so our focus was on learning to press the ball properly, improve our movement off the ball and have the confidence to play the ball around the back of our defence. This vastly improved as the season progressed and they are in a great position to move onto 11-a-side. Unfortunately, they did come unstuck against Whitgift in the quarter final of the National Cup, despite being the better side in the first half, chances were wasted and injuries took their toll and the opposition left with a scoreline that flattered them.
U12s
This U12 squad was arguably one of the most talented year groups that I have ever had the pleasure of working with at Churcher’s. I have been so impressed by how much depth there was within the year group, with so many boys who put their hands up to play that it made selecting teams very difficult. In total, 18 boys represented the A Team and there could easily have been more!
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“what is amazing about the U15s is their impeccable teamwork”
Netball Another great season for netball at Churcher’s with the most notable highlights: • 1sts - Shield semi-finalists at Seaford Sevens Tournament and third round of the ISNC Cup • U15s - quarter finalists of the U15 Independent Schools Plate • U13s - Silver at the PGL England Netball Residential Tournament • U12s - Silver at the PGL England Netball Residential Tournament
U12s
Without fail, the U12s turned up week after week with a positive attitude, enthusiasm to learn and a healthy dose of competitiveness. Cecily Morrogh, Francesca Trask and Elinor Greenall are three players who have dramatically improved this season with Amelia Bastian-Mason, Zhara Ireland and Imogen Rengger also impressing on court. Holly Baird could always be counted on for steadiness, concentration and consistency, Georgie Stratton-Brown could be nicknamed ‘the pocket-rocket’ with
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her terrific speed around the court and Jessie Lofthouse wins the prize for being nominated ‘players’ player’ by the opposition the most amount of times!
U13s
Enthusiasm, friendship and fun, along with good netball ability and a desire to improve has made for a pleasing season for the U13s. A few names who deserve mention: Mariana Houghton and Kitty Hogg have grown in confidence in the defensive circle, Phoebe Dallyn, Amelia McCulloch and Rose Bruce produced some fantastic performances in centre court positions, Charlotte Carmichael, Annie Finbow and Millie Cregeen have all made vast improvements with their positional play in the shooting circle and many have showed versatility, switching from defence to attack when required. With over 30 girls at training each week, it is no wonder this season saw so much individual and team improvement; a very rewarding term!
U14s
It has been a bit of a rollercoaster season, with touches of greatness and moments of disappointment.
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With some talented netballers in this year group, the main focus is getting them to work together as a team, and commitment to training is key to achieving this. The girls often struggled to gain consistency but we were encouraged by the performances that were produced in the second half of the season. Thea Swarbrick, Jemima Billsberry-Grass, Georgia Dyer and Amy Lloyd were all nominated as star players for their respective teams, along with Maisie Weller, Becca Martin, Amelie Jones and Maddie Price-Wickenden who, in the coaches opinion, showed the most improvement.
U15s
The U15s always play with spirit and determination, but this season has seen the development of strong on court combinations, supported by great individual skills. In our back court, Bo Texier and Hannah Martin showed why they are stand out defenders with inspired efforts every match. Darcey Scott, Nuria Bertran and Scarlet Hall were all nominated as star players for their respective teams and equally impressive were the consistently outstanding performances from our shooters (Izzy
Harris, Lola Ramseyer, Megan Cullen, Chrissie Holligon, Olivia Sexton and Phoebe Batt). What is amazing about this year group is their impeccable teamwork. There were countless times when the girls would pat each other on the back for a ‘job well done’, but also provide positive reinforcement when the chips were down.
U16s
The U16 girls play some outstanding netball. They display tremendous teamwork and have developed a strong understanding of each other’s play. Their fast pace, especially through the centre court, with Adie Matson, Amy Dickens, Freya Davey and Rhianna Jones has certainly been impressive. Defenders such as Kim Monkman, Helena Brown, Bels Foster and Evie Davey have been consistent, often making interceptions and turnovers at crucial points in matches. Similarly, at the other end of the court, May Procter, Phoebe Hutchins and Sacha Mayson have shown accuracy and composure in the shooting circle. These girls should be incredibly proud of all they have achieved in their netball so far and we look forward to seeing them make the step up to senior level next year!
Seniors
Our goal this season was to inspire the senior girls to work hard, perform their best and support each other; we believe this was achieved. Both senior teams have produced some very creditable performances over the season. The 1st VII showed grit and determination in some really closely contested matches, most notably against Redmaids High and Tudor Hall in the ISNC Cup Competition and PGS and Christ’s Hospital in our weekend fixtures. The 2nd VII finished with an impressive 100% winning record, with excellent scorelines against Lord Wandsworth, KES Southampton and Seaford College. Players who deserve a mention: Katie Harris, Emily Nellist, and Isabelle Brower, who all showed superb levels of individual skill and Annabelle Jenkins and Rose Giffin proved to be an unstoppable dynamic duo for the 2nds.
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“the U12s are dedicated young netballers who have been an absolute pleasure to work with”
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Cricket With full Saturday block fixtures lined up for both boys and girls it saddens me to report that not a single ball was bowled in anger due to the Coronavirus outbreak, and what makes this even harder to swallow is the fact that we have enjoyed so much sunshine! I know that the children would have been desperate to play but possibly the worst outcome for me is the fact that we say goodbye to our Upper Sixth boys who don’t get another chance to represent the school. My thanks go to captain Adam Childs, Tom Wild, Henry McMillan, Tom Radford, Joe Knowles and Charlie Mawson for all your efforts over the years, it’s certainly not the ending any of us would have wanted but perhaps we will get another chance to meet up in the Old Boys fixture?
Lady Taverner’s Indoor Cricket Tournament
Congratulations to our outstanding U12 and U13 girls who finished as bronze medal winners for the Lady Taverner’s indoor tournament. The girls played a total of eight games, winning six and losing two and I have no doubt that they will have gained
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much experience and enjoyment as the tournament progressed. It was pleasing to see how the First and Second Year girls bonded so quickly, and this will undoubtedly benefit them greatly as they progress through the school and on to senior girls’ cricket. The school will enter again next year and I am convinced that with a little more work and understanding we will once again place ourselves into a position to contend for top honours. Our U14 and U15 girls were also scheduled to play in the Hampshire finals but sadly had to miss out due to the lockdown. Up until this point, we had played six games in the tournament, winning four and losing two, and it was such a pity that we had to miss out on challenging for the final as the girls were really starting to play well as a team, and had every chance of success against the opposition that we had drawn. Our Third Year girls have one more chance to play again next year but it’s a sad way to end for the Fourth Year as the tournament does not reach beyond this age. Mr R Maier
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Athletics & Cross Country The athletics and cross country season, as always, got underway against the splendid backdrop of the highest point of the South Downs, as 45 students alongside a great many runners from the community attempted the annual Butser Hill Challenge in aid of FitzRoy. Although spectators got to bask in the sunshine, enjoying contributions from compère Mr Rowley and the school rock bands, the hot conditions added to an already gruelling event. As always, Churcherians gave an excellent account of themselves; Adam Childs was the first home amongst staff and students in the senior race and there were some sterling efforts lower down the ages.
round. Unfortunately, our junior and intermediate boys and girls couldn’t break into the top two, but ran exceptionally well on a particularly cold and wet day at Embley Park. However, just a few short weeks later, they would taste success… at the Hampshire Inter Schools Cross Country Competition, Churcher’s would be the only school to raise two junior teams in the boys’ event, finishing third and seventh respectively out of the 20 schools present, with Will Bailey first across the line for Churcher’s, in 11th place out of 123, and Poppy Kilpatrick raced hard to earn her 13th place out of 101 runners in the individual scoring in the girls event.
The cross country season was soon under way; first up was the English Schools’ Cross Country Championships, a tough team event where only the top two schools (out of 23) progress to the next
We continued our fine tradition of representing the South East Region at the Hampshire Cross Country Championships – Tom Briggs and Ben Wright raced in the intermediate boys, with Tom finishing 23rd. However in
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“as always, Churcherians gave an excellent account of themselves” the junior ages groups, 19 of the South East team came from Churcher’s; the highest represented school in the South East of Hampshire for the second consecutive year. Unfortunately, the Covid-19 pandemic cut the athletics season short before it had even started, although this means that Liv Busher (javelin) and Ollie Bowen (high jump) retain their status as county champions. Liv continues her national aspirations in the javelin, ranked sixth nationally for her age group last season, and Natalia Ivanov is currently ranked second nationally for her age group in the pole vault; exciting times ahead! Mr K Maguire
“In the Staff vs Pupil challenge, Mr Gibbins moved like a young gazelle on the court”
Squash This is the first year Churcher’s have entered a team in the National Schools Squash Competition. In the first round we played extremely well but lost to both Charterhouse and Lancing College and in the second round we played Reeds and Sevenoaks. We won in matches against Reeds, however only the top team went through to the Plate final. Unlike all the other schools we have played, we do not have squash courts at Churcher’s (yet!). Our playing base is at Herne Farm in Petersfield, where we meet on alternate Fridays. Some pupils are members of clubs outside school, Lockie Mann represents Sussex Under 13s and Toby Jackson trains regularly with the county development squads. With enthusiasm and participation building, the pupils have been lucky enough to have two coaching sessions with squash legend Peter Genever.
Peter was until last year the Malaysian National Squash coach and in his playing days reached World Rank 23. He was very impressed by the standard of our team and we hope to make squash coaching a permanent fixture in the Churcher’s calendar. In the Autumn Term, our staff squash players, who are lower down the World Squash Rankings, took on the players in a fun Staff vs Pupil challenge. Mr Leysen’s enthusiastic display proved too much of a challenge for some of the players, Mr West showed off a mix of table tennis, tennis and squash skills and Mr Gibbins moved like a young gazelle on the court. Our aim next season is to extend participation in the sport further and to be able to enter two teams in the National Schools Competition, an U14 and U17 team. Mrs C Mann
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Swimming & Waterpolo Churcher’s swimming continues to grow in strength, both at development and competitive level. Swim squad sessions frequently attract over 20 swimmers and the early morning sessions have seen the highest numbers certainly for a few years. In the Hampshire relay championships, the Inter boys’ team (Felix Brockdorff, Max Cropley, Alex Paton and Lewis Jordan) were the most successful on the day, being crowned Hampshire champions in the medley relay and second in the freestyle. We also had other second place finishes: the junior girls in both freestyle and medley relays and the senior boys in the freestyle medley. Both the Inter and Senior boys earned qualification for the ESSA relay finals at the Olympic Park, in both the freestyle and medley relays. Unfortunately, the Inter boys had to withdraw but this was still a brilliant
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day with the boys finishing 21st in the country for both relays. With COVID-19 lockdown looming, we just managed to return to the Aquatics Centre for the Bath Cup, where both the girls and boys open teams had some excellent swims. For the first time, the boys made the final for the John Nalson Medley relay and finished 12th in the Bath Cup (two places up on last year’s performance). The girls finished fourth in the R L Stead Medley relay; a fine achievement for such a young team. Sadly, the swimming season was unable to be completed and favourite events such as the Churcher’s biathlon championships and the Henley Classic Open Water did not happen. Roll on next year! Mrs K Higgins
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“for the first time, the boys made the final for the John Nalson Medley relay”
Waterpolo
Despite the fact the waterpolo season was cut a little short, we had a great cup run with a fantastic 6-1 win against Cheltenham College in the final round with strong performances from Alex Sandberg and Thomas Parmenter, taking the school team further in a national competition than ever before with a bronze medal finish. We also won a triangular tournament against Basingstoke and Portsmouth earlier in the season thanks to fine goals from Tim Orchard, Rory Plewes and Henry Plewes. We look forward to seeing some new faces and some great matches next year. Will Hipsey (Captain)
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OSCA
Despite being markedly shorter than usual, the 2019-20 OSCA year was, as ever, still full of action, adventure and, most importantly, fun! Under the dynamic and brilliant new leadership of Mr Rowley and supported by such a generous team of volunteers and Churcher’s staff, all pupils quickly acquired many different skills through an exciting range of OSCA activities; from revamped versions of tried and tested favourites such as the chariots, tsunami tripods and climbing wall, through to brand new activities such as whittling wooden toasting forks, erecting their own tents on expedition and making popcorn on campfires, in upcycled fizzy drinks cans! This year also saw a welcome return for OSCA to the picturesque setting of Stedham campsite, for both
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Autumn and Spring Term Rother Valley expeditions. Following an approximately 7km walk through the beautiful South Downs countryside, the superb facilities and sheltered position of Stedham certainly came in very handy on the second of these expeditions with the arrival of a rather sudden overnight storm. Although Mr McLearie’s tent was left just a little windswept by morning and the pupils’ sleep was on the odd occasion disturbed by a strong gust or two, ultimately, this additional challenge only appeared to further pupils’ enjoyment of the weekend and their eagerness for Outdoor Survival, Challenge and Adventure. Well done all! Mr D Heath
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“Mr McLearie’s tent was left just a little windswept by morning…”
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Senior Adventure Club The College Senior Adventure Club ‘tipped the balance’ on the famous Cantilever, 3,000 feet above sea level, on Glyder Fach, in Snowdonia. 14 Lower Sixth pupils and three staff ventured to Snowdonia for the weekend in the summer of 2019. A 12-hour day high in the mountains included climbing some of the classic
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ridges and scrambles of Snowdonia, including the North Ridge of Tryfan, Bristly Ridge, and Snowdon itself. Camping in the Ogwen valley, the group also enjoyed a contrasting challenge with gorge scrambling on the second day. Mr A Rowley
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CCF
Army
Despite Covid-19, we have enjoyed a very busy year in the Army Section of the CCF. Our healthy crop of 62 new Third Year cadets was introduced to fieldcraft and field admin on Exercise Chameleon on 1 October. Focusing on not being seen, cadets constructed two-man shelters in a woodland harbour, cammed-up and practised concealment and tactical movement in response to field signals. A week later, our Fifth Year cadets enjoyed a day’s shooting at the Ash Electronic Target Range, firing at pop-up targets at 100m, 200m and 300m, from prone, sitting and kneeling positions. During November’s Biennial Inspection, our Sixth Form NCOs demonstrated a snap ambush, using the stand of oaks on the eastern boundary of Headmaster’s Field to suppress an enemy patrol detected on their footsteps. The action was led by CSM Josh Banks, with a comprehensive commentary provided to the assembled guests and pupils by RSM Sam Rose. Four of our senior NCOs (Jacob Tutt, George McCurragh, Seb Kelson and Ben Taylor) also completed the competitive and demanding SCIC (Senior Cadet Instructors Cadre) course at autumn half term; all passed
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and earned their sergeant’s stripes. Three NCOs were also able to attend taster days at Sandhurst Military College. The main focus of the Fourth Year programme is the Skill at Arms course, where cadets are trained on the L98A2 cadet rifle. This culminates in a Weapons Handling Test, which all cadets must pass every six months to be allowed to use the weapon system. In March, these cadets took part in Exercise Striking Tiger on the Hankley Common training area. Using blank ammunition, the cadets were able to practise battle drills and demonstrate their proficiency fighting through a Close Quarter Battle Lane and prosecuting a planned ambush on an armed enemy patrol. Our Sixth Form NCOs provided the enemy combatants.
cadets in recent years. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our departing RSM, Sam Rose, and CSM, Josh Banks, for their outstanding contributions this year. Capt D Nighy
Navy
Unfortunately, Covid-19 prompted the cancellation of the Summer Term programme, which would have seen the Third Years spending a night in the field and our much anticipated return to Barry Buddon in Scotland for Summer Camp.
The Royal Navy section is a new adventure for me (having transferred across from the Army) and I have been incredibly impressed and proud to have been appointed as the Section Commander to this amazing and committed section of the school’s Combined Cadet Force. Examples of what has made this experience so special have been seeing the cadets display such a brilliant attitude towards all the challenges and tasks that we have set them, and I could not have been prouder then when we got to see them all parade and drill so well on Remembrance Day, as well as seeing evidence of their learning during the CCF drill and practical leadership tasks which took place during the whole school inspection.
The smooth running of the contingent relies heavily on the quality of our NCOs and we have been particularly fortunate to have had excellent senior
The cadets come with a wide range of knowledge varying from experienced sailors through to those that are trying it out for the first time, but it is their
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ability to learn quickly and support each other that has particularly impressed us. Our junior cadets owe so much of their development and upskilling to our brilliant senior cadet team of Chief Petty Officer Adam Childs, and the three Leading Hands of Katie Hutchinson, Ben Williams and Rachel Newberry; their commitment and enthusiasm were evident throughout the year and the children would have gained brilliant examples of best practice from some outstanding young leaders and role models. Sub Lieutenant R Maier
Trafalgar Dinner
We were delighted to welcome Admiral Sir Philip Andrew Jones, GCB, ADC, DL, and Lady Elizabeth Jones, as our Guests of Honour at the annual Trafalgar Dinner. Cadets from the Lower and Upper Sixth, across all three sections enjoyed a fabulous evening, honouring and celebrating Nelson and his success at the Battle of Trafalgar. Delicious food, wonderful company, including a huge range of guests from the military, retired and still serving, and OCs, stirring speeches and raucous sea shanties.
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RAF
Last year, the RAF Section achieved much in the shortened time we were given due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We had a tough first half of term consisting of a huge amount of drill as a result of the Biennial Inspection. The section exceeded the already high expectations and passed with flying colours. This was then replicated in the Remembrance Parade in Petersfield and at the smaller parade in remembrance of the Heroes of Horndean, which we attended in February, to honour two Australian World War Two pilots with the unveiling of a new memorial stone. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic and British weather, the section only managed two flying days this year at Boscombe Down and there will be no cadet flying until at least January 2021. However, instead of flying the Grob Tutor, cadets have been flying the famous P-51D Mustang on the school’s brand new flight simulators. These simulators, kindly donated by the PA, with state of the art graphics and flight modeling, are as close as we can currently get to flying in real life and will enhance the cadet’s flying skills before they step into an aircraft in real life.
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The section has seen success this year through the Air Cadets Courses and Scholarships, with Sergeant Max Walton being selected for the Air Cadet Pilot Scheme and Flight Sergeant Jasper Browne being selected for the International Air Cadet Exchange and being invited to apply for the Sir Michael Knight Scholarship, although sadly all of these had to be cancelled. Hopefully more of the cadets will have similar opportunities this year, COVID permitting. Cdt Flt Sgt Jasper Browne
Biennial Inspection
Every two years our CCF is inspected and assessed by a visiting officer and this year it was the turn of an Officer from the Royal Navy to oversee our Inspection. A parade and march past in the morning was ably accompanied by Mr Cree and the Senior Wind Band’s marching music. After lunch, an afternoon of displays and demonstrations from all three sections of our CCF offered Admiral Sir Phil Jones and accompanying officers and dignitaries the opportunity to review our CCF programme.
“these simulators, with state of the art graphics and flight modeling, are as close as we can currently get to flying in real life�
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Devizes to Westminster Training throughout the autumn and winter took place on often cold, wet and windy Sunday mornings. High levels of rain meant that several of the usual build-up races were cancelled or postponed, but the team of 29 paddlers and four coaches were not deterred and paddling speed, technique and endurance levels all continued to improve. Parents joined the programme as support crews, adding greater efficiency to the replenishment of the crews’ energy levels, water bottles and enthusiasm, as we continued to build momentum towards the race itself.
evening of Saturday 14 March that due to the coronavirus outbreak the 2020 race had been cancelled. Despite this hefty blow to morale the crews were delighted to be able to take to the Kennet and Avon Canal the following morning and compete in the Waterside Series Race C (23 miles, one long tunnel and 35 portages).
It was therefore a huge blow and disappointment to learn, on the
Amongst a large field of junior and senior boats all of our crews paddled really well and certainly enjoyed the sense of achievement at having competed in a reasonably long and challenging race. Although not able to achieve their main goal for the season, we are all extremely proud of how the squad has progressed
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from novice paddlers to slick racing machines. Long gone are the days of tired muscles and frequent capsizes, replaced now by smooth technique, smiling faces and the ability to keep paddling and portaging for hours and hours. In spite of the frustrations with the race cancellation, the journey has been so worthwhile for all the young paddlers, and the coaching team are immensely proud of the whole squad.
“the squad has progressed from novice paddlers to slick racing machines�
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The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
It has been a frustrating year for our DofE participants. Over two weekends in September and October, a total of 118 Fourth Years completed their Bronze DofE Practice Expedition. The wet, windy and wild weather didn’t dampen their spirits or enthusiasm as all teams hiked for over six hours, carrying full kit, to the campsite at Stedham. Unfortunately, the final Isle of Wight Expedition had to be postponed. Silver candidates enjoyed a full and successful three days in the New
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Forest at the end of the summer holiday but once again were unable to complete their final expedition, originally scheduled for Exmoor in June. Hopefully this too will be completed at a later date. Following five days in Snowdonia in late August, six Gold teams travelled to the Lakes for their Final Expedition in October half term. Four cold, but astonishingly clear days and nights, including snow, frost and big blue skies offered challenges, reward and enjoyment for all expeditioners.
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Ten Tors The Ten Tors training programme ran from November onwards with evening hikes on South Downs, followed by overnight navigation exercises in the New Forest in late January, and a long weekend training challenge in Dartmoor in late February. Three squads of Fourth Year cadets and two squads of Lower Sixth continued to build their skills, stamina, resilience, teamwork and leadership through this exciting and most demanding of cadet opportunities. Sadly, the main event, scheduled for late April, was cancelled but regardless of this, we would like to say huge congratulations to the pupils who have been taking part in the training programme with such great enthusiasm over the last two terms.
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Charity
Churcher’s College is very pleased to announce that in the 2019-20 academic year we have raised more than £18,445 for many amazing charities. With many students voluntarily engaged in fundraising activities for local, national and international charities, charity work at Churcher’s runs throughout the school and is led by the Charities Committee. This year saw a wide range of events and initiatives, and through some fantastic efforts a large amount of money was raised and lots of awareness created for these amazing charities. Each term we have two non-uniform days, apart from the Summer Term where we can only fit in one, much to the students’ disappointment! For a £2 donation, they can wear their home clothes for the whole school day. The Charities Committee decided who to support and this year’s recipients were: FitzRoy, Dogs for Autism, Just4Children, Tabora League, UWS and Home-Start Butser. The day before, we dedicate our school assembly to the charity to create awareness for why we are fundraising and what the money can do to
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help. A particular highlight of these assemblies was when Reggie, one of the dogs from the Dogs for Autism charity, jumped up onto the chair next to Mr Knowles on the stage while the Headmaster was talking to get a better view!
running around the school spreading Christmas joy with their reindeer antlers, flashing noses and Christmas jumpers; it was a really great way to end a busy term. We also just managed to beat our fundraising total with a massive £1,763.
At the start of the year, the Sixth Form joined the BIGGEST NATIONAL COFFEE MORNING EVER for Macmillian raising over £220 selling beautiful cakes and treats in Ramshill. After the tragedy of Hurricane Dorian, a group of Second Year girls lead by Catherine Tupper wanted to help. They came up with the plan to run a whole school bake sale in the dining room and raised over £341.
As well as raising funds, charity work has proved to be another way for students to form friendships united by a common cause. The charities we donated to this year include: • Centrepoint • Rowans Hospice • Macmillian • FitzRoy • Just4Children • Dogs for Autism • HMP Winchester Prison • Step by Step • Royal Marsden Hospital • Chestnut Tree House • MNDA • The King’s Arms • Tabora League for Children • United World Schools • Home-Start Butser
Another hugely successful event this year, was our first ever Charity Race Night for parents and staff. We raised £1,800 for United World Schools, our partner school in Mude. It was really great to see so many parents and staff getting involved and willing their horse over the line! Back by popular demand, for a second year in a row, the Reindeer Run was a big hit with the Lower School this year. With all the students
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Ms C Evans
“with students running around spreading Christmas joy with reindeer antlers, flashing noses and Christmas jumper; it was a really great way to end a busy term�
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Community Support
The Churcher’s College Catering Team responded quickly to the changing requirements brought on by the lockdown. The team initially stepped in to support the local Age Concern Lunch Club when their cook had to shield. At short notice, the service they were providing within the Community Centre had to diversify to a lunch delivery service every Tuesday and Thursday. Work started on Thursday 26 March, shortly after the PM’s lockdown briefing, cooking just 25 hot meals and desserts. Over the next couple of weeks, other charities were added, including The King’s Arms and Home-Start Butser, and numbers rapidly grew. The local Petersfield Coronavirus Community Support hub also assessed and added individuals that had contacted them for support. Within a few weeks we were cooking approximately 300 main meals and desserts each week and a team of local volunteers organised by Age Concern delivered the meals straight from the school to the recipients. Our last meals went out on Thursday 13 August after 21 weeks, by which time we had produced 5,054 hot meals and desserts. Mrs B Speirs
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United World Schools
The UWS mission of teaching the unreached kicked into overdrive this year. With Nepal being faced with school closures, the pupils of UWS Mude started to learn by radio. Every day, teachers from UWS would broadcast their lessons in English, Maths and Science across the airwaves so that those on the steepest of slopes and highest of mountains could learn. Teachers that were unable to teach in closed schools were trained by UWS Nepal to be local Covid leaders: they were educated about effective social distancing and the role of hygiene. As a community, our support of UWS has not faltered, with the Junior School raising nearly £1,500 by virtually climbing Everest and learning Nepali. There were probably some sore legs after that effort! In the Senior School some pupils took part in the UWS photograph competition and, although we didn’t win a prize, I hope they enjoyed the distraction from remote learning. Equally, some First Year pupils took part in a global UWS Assembly with children from nine different countries.
can see the best of those around us. As a result of our efforts of supporting UWS, the education for the pupils of the rural village of Mude continued. As a community, they were better informed about Covid-19 and safer as a result. It really highlights the unknown benefits of the charitable work that we, as a College, consider so important. Mr J Harris
“faced with school closures, the pupils of UWS Mude started to learn by radio”
Looking back, it is at times of upheaval and seismic change that we
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Development Office Whether you have made the transition to Old Churcherian, are a Churcher’s parent, a former member of staff or a friend of the school in another capacity, the Development Office exists to connect the school community and to encourage a longlasting relationship with Churcher’s. Despite disrupting our best laid plans, the pandemic has also highlighted the importance and potential of a network of Churcherians, the school, family and friends. 2021 will be a very busy year for us as we develop new initiatives and start to fast-track our plans for the 300th anniversary in 2022, which promises to be hugely exciting celebrations for all of us connected to Churcher’s.
place from all generations of OCs, former staff and other friends and supporters of Churcher’s.
HHH Drinks
On a fine September evening, the Headmaster welcomed back recent leavers to drinks in the garden of Heath Harrison House. OCs from 2017, 18 and 19 took advantage of the annual event to catch up with each other and staff and share their stories. Always a popular event, the sun was shining before everyone disappeared off to university and gap year projects.
1722 Society Christmas Lunch
Even though the traditional events calendar was cut in half, there was a great turn-out at those that did take
Members of the 1722 Society, who have pledged a gift in their will towards the Richard Churcher Foundation, and their guests, gathered in the Assembly Hall at the College on 10 December for a Christmas lunch where they were joined by current Upper Sixth students and entertained with some fabulous piano playing by A Level Music student,
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Mr N Smith
Events
Gus Tranter. It was a great way to kick off the festive season and a chance for our legators to reminisce and compare stories of Churcher’s with their Sixth Form hosts.
Stay in touch
To stay in touch with Churcher’s please update your contact details and communications preferences at www. community.churcherscollege.com. You can also contact the Development Office at any time – community@ churcherscollege.com / 01730 236 833.
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Old Churcherians in Lockdown
Katie Strick (11) – Petersfield Staff writer at the Evening Standard, Katie writes daily features for the newspaper’s Life & Arts pages and regularly contributes to the comment pages as a columnist. Around Christmas, my mother announced she was taking my childhood desk to the charity shop. It’s a happy twist of fate that she never got round to it. Little did either of us know that weeks later I’d be moving home for an extended summer holiday, but when lockdown was announced in March, I knew where I’d be spending it. My flatmates were away and I’m bad enough at a morning home alone, let alone weeks, so I fled the Big Smoke for leafy Hampshire and did what I’d prided myself on avoiding since graduation: I moved back in with the parents. Like most people privileged enough to have a family home to retreat to,
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my fourteen weeks at home felt like a strange throwback to study leave. My sister and I dug out the toastie maker we lived off during revision; my parents asked about deadlines over dinner; my Churcher’s mates stopped by to coax me out on walks. Talk of brunch spots and Tube delays were replaced with farm shops, Strava segments and reminiscing about prepandemic results days. At home, apparently I turned into my parents: within the family, we experienced a strange kind of role reversal. “It’s like a hotel!” my mother would rejoice as I called my parents to dinner and told them it’s rude to be on their phones at the table. They binged Normal People past midnight one week (I went to bed at nine) and it seems every day is a lie-in now they no longer commute. Of course, there were frustrations with moving to the countryside. The NHS clap was a lot quieter when houses are more than two metres apart; you couldn’t swing by the pub for a takeaway cocktail; and popping
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to the shops under London’s great cover of anonymity was impossible. Apparently half my mother’s book club moved into Lidl for lockdown. That said, I was in no rush to get back to my top-floor flat in London. Funnily enough, you don’t crave the gym when you can work out in a big garden, and it’s hard to miss Pret when there’s free food on the table. In fact, my Monzo account has never looked healthier. I’m back in London now and grateful to have a taste of my pre-lockdown life again, but I’ll always look back at those fourteen weeks with a fondness for the family time we had and the freedom of the countryside. Never did my Churcher’s gang think we’d return to the days of picnics on Petersfield Heath and retracing old D of E walks on the South Downs. My teenage self would probably have hated me for saying this, but moving back in with the parents really isn’t so bad after all. Twitter: @katie_strick
Emily Robins (08) – Australia Senior Registrar, Accident & Emergency Dept. Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, Western Australia. I work in a large inner city hospital in Perth, Western Australia which is one of the most remote cities in the world. This isolation has given Perth an inherent advantage in regards to the global pandemic. The Australian international border was closed midMarch with the Western Australian state border following shortly after, on 6 April. As with everywhere in the world, the initial fear of the unknown surrounding COVID led to an immense amount of learning, preparation and training being crammed into a very short period of time. There was a feeling of ‘the calm before the storm’ as we nervously watched what was happening elsewhere in the world. In the beginning, as with the rest of the world, we had an initial rise in cases. This was short lived and we have not had the number of cases to the same degree as other places.
There are a huge number of healthcare workers from the UK living and working in Perth with many having overriding feelings of helplessness, uselessness and guilt after our initial rise in case numbers had declined. It was horrible watching what was unfolding back in the UK but being powerless to help from so far away. A lot of people felt that their skills could have been better used elsewhere in the world. As WA has remained closed off and Australia has remained divided by state lines, life locally is effectively back to normal; national and international life and relations remain strange and fragmented. Although I am very grateful that I am fortunate enough to live somewhere that has been far less damaged by COVID, I feel guilty that I have been able to get back to living my life normally whilst people have been so badly affected back at home and am in admiration of the hard work of the NHS staff and all that they have done and continue to do.
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Staff Departures
Al Saralis
Churcher’s is blessed with many things and having its own Peter Pan, the person who never grew old, is one such blessing. It seems somewhat incongruous to be writing in letters and words about someone whose life is almost entirely about pictures, but Al Saralis, Churcher’s very own Peter Pan as one person describes him, deserves accolades both pictorial and written. Al is certainly not one who believes ability or success is pre-determined. He was never going to allow the passing of time to dampen his spirits or erode his enthusiasm and energy. Likewise, Al believes everyone has the ability to draw; it is just that some need to believe in themselves a little more and have the encouragement and guidance to draw that talent out. There are many aspects of Churcher’s College that make us stand out from the crowd and Art is recognised as being particularly special here. Al has been at the Art helm at Churcher’s since 1996 and his legacy hangs on
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many a wall both within school and in the homes of pupils past and present. The foundations he has created and, from those, the extraordinary exam results we have enjoyed, will, I am sure, carry on for many years to come. I remember my first experience of Churcher’s and admiring the quality of art here. I had assumed it was just one of those fortunate moments; a kind of planets aligning moment when the school was blessed with an unusual number of talented artists. But the quantity of such stunning quality did not stop after just one year; there is a perennial smorgasbord of artistic brilliance on display here. Every wall, every corner of the school carries evidence of it and with it Al’s influence. Al would be the first to admit he is a hard task master, he expects much, but so many generations have delivered so much and with such reward for themselves and for us observers as a consequence. Of course, art success here is not down to a one-man band; Al is adamant that it is a team effort, the
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ideas and inspirations came from all within that team, not one person. As a proud Welshman he remembers, and rightly celebrates, the decades of rugby brilliance and how that arose not from one soul but from synergism of those in the scarlet shirts; likewise, the art here. That Al is retiring surprised many, not least because they didn’t think he was old enough to do so; that his personal, professional artistic career has taken off and that he is in big and growing demand from galleries, even in foreign climes, is probably less of a surprise. Over the 24 years Al has been here there are many who have benefitted hugely from his tough love approach to art. There is abiding evidence on many a wall of the stunning art created by many of his charges because of his encouragement, guidance and inspiration. A man more passionate about his subject, those he teaches and the Welsh rugby team is hard to find!
Gill Clarke
There is an apocryphal story about Gill Clarke that, once upon a time, when she was the Deputy Head overseeing discipline and many other things at Churcher’s, a lifesized cardboard cut-out of her was manufactured and placed on the train to modify behaviour. Uniforms were straightened, ties pulled up, skirt hems down, voices lowered – and Gill, or should that be Mrs Clarke, had not said a word. That a mere hint of her presence made such an impact tells you much about Gill but no cardboard cut-out substitute was actually required because Gill had no fears about entering lions’ dens in person. Gill never shies away from a challenge, even when, for example, one Fifth Form leaver’s day she had to seek out the source of a terrible aroma in New College and found a rotting fish surreptitiously secreted behind a radiator; not only did she find the fish but she found the miscreant as well. We have been swimming along in the tide of energy and enthusiasm which is Mrs Clarke ever since she arrived at Churcher’s in 1987. In the 33 years Gill has been involved in the school, there seems to be no area and no activity that she hasn’t touched, except possibly the model railway club. When she arrived, she took on residential duties with the girl boarders and she supervised girls’ games. She has
been involved in the Public Speaking and Debating Competitions, the Junior Reading Competition, Drama including judging, with astonishing insight and with extraordinary diplomacy, the very amateur actors in House Drama. She has also run work experience and there was always her ever-present involvement with the choral society. She’s kept the Committee of the Parents’ Association under control, she flew the blue flag as Head of Nelson House for a number of years and in her spare time she was Deputy Head, teacher of English, History and Latin. Gill is a heart and soul kind of person, whatever she is involved in she gives it her heart and soul. There are few who have the same level of devotion to both the children in her charge but also to the school; the benefit both the school and her charges gained as a consequence has been immense. It is astonishing to note that Gill actually retired from teaching in 2006 but it is only the foolish that let someone of such worth escape and, with much persuasion and arm twisting, Gill was encouraged to stay on as our very first school archivists, adviser to all and, of late, one of our trusted invigilators.
authored the most recent History of Churcher’s. What is quite clear in that history, is that the school has been inextricably linked with the town of Petersfield, very much to the benefit of both. The school is as much a part of the community as the community is of it and Gill, with her remarkable involvement in all that is good and great about Petersfield, including Historical Societies, Town Council, social groups, St Peter’s Church and such like, has often been the link between town and gown, nourishing the good and tending to the not so. There are many who know they have much to be grateful to Gill Clarke for; there are even more who may not recognise the impact she has had on their lives through her involvement with the school but whose heart and soul approach has, directly or indirectly, been very much to their benefit.
Churcher’s is on the cusp of entering its tercentenary year and it has an impressive history over the last 300 years with inevitable ups and downs. Gill has been instrumental in collating evidence of that journey and co-
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Jo-Anne Jarrett
Kayleigh Pendry
Upon joining the English Department in September 2015, Jo quickly established herself as a warm, supportive and caring member of the team. This approach very much came through in her teaching and Jo’s camaraderie with her pupils helped them to feel valued, confident and that their ideas were always appreciated. Outside the classroom, Jo brought her own love of literature into the founding of the First to Third Year Book Club, thus giving the younger, sometimes more reticent members of the school the opportunity to share literary views, exchange book recommendations and extend their reading. From close textual study to fervent debate, the group’s members gained much from their lively discussions and, most importantly, furthered their enjoyment of reading in the process. The arrival of baby Solomon last year prompted Jo’s departure and we wish her and the family all the very best in this next exciting stage.
Kayleigh joined the Junior School in September 2014 as a Year 4 teacher, moving year groups two years later to teach our Reception Class. Kayleigh was dedicated to the progress of her children and brought energy and fun to the classroom. The children particularly enjoyed how musical theatre was part of everyday life in their classroom. Kayleigh had an amazing way of making rehearsing for productions fun and inspiring and on her final day in the Summer Term she led the whole school in a postlockdown dance routine on the field, ending her time with us on a high! Her dynamic and energetic passion for performing arts will be very much missed, as will her funny stories in the staff room!
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Rachel Blewett
Rachel’s arrival brought youth and enthusiasm to the Maths Department. She was always fiercely determined to get the best from her pupils and gave hours to supporting them during lunchtimes, even giving up free periods to help pupils in need. Her fun, enthusiastic but caring nature and methodical approach inspired confidence in her young charges and her results speak for themselves. Always sporting a huge smile, her laughter and positive attitude were infectious. On top of teaching, Rachel got fully involved in all aspects of Churcher’s life, leading World Challenge groups across the globe and taking sports teams out for matches at weekends. In fact, Rachel was often seen in her PE kit; if she was not helping in the PE Department with games sessions, she was taking herself into the gym during frees and at one point started a running club for the more enthusiastic runners in the school. Her altruistic nature continued outside the Department and she gave great energy, enthusiasm and flair to the whole school activities, skills which were very quickly recognised and soon she was appointed assistant Head of House, then later, Head of the Sixth Form Enrichment Programme, becoming an important part of the Sixth Form team. Rachel has left us to take up the post of Head of Mathematics at Portsmouth Grammar School and although sorely missed, we wish her the very best in her new role.
Charlotte Schryver, Fifth Year.
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First Year Prizewinners 2020
Special Prizes for Outstanding Achievement
Awarded to those who have been placed in the top three nominations in at least three (Merit) or four (Distinction) subjects.
Zhara Ireland
Distinction
Biology, French, Geography, Music, Physical Education and Spanish
Jessica Lofthouse
Distinction
Chemistry, Computer Science, Drama, Geography, German, History, Latin, Religion & Philosophy and Spanish
Elinor Greenall
Merit
Art, French and Religion & Philosophy
Alfred Hughes
Merit
Biology, German and Spanish
Subject Prizes Art
Thomas Binns
History
Alice Franklin
Biology
Raphael Chamberlain
Latin
Jake Griffiths
Chemistry
Zachary Smith
Mathematics
Holly McLaughlin
Computer Science
Georgina Stratton-Brown
Music
Molly Taylor
Design & Technology
Jemima Craven
Physical Education (Boys)
Alexander Royds
Drama
Freya Wilson
Physical Education (Girls)
Cecily Morrogh
English
Megan Cowley
Physics
Rupert Haworth
French
Isla Paton
Religion & Philosophy
Francesca Trask
Geography
William Newman
Spanish
Imogen Rengger
German
George Little
Cum Laude Prizes Awarded to those who have fulfilled a number of the following criteria: demonstrated outstanding effort and application throughout the year, received prize nominations in a number of subjects, made a significant all-round contribution to school life, made commendable progress during the course of the year.
Freya Austin
Sophie Crossley
Sasha Inkley
Isobel Reed
Amelia Bastian-Mason
Moritz Flohr
Isabel Jones
Iona Richardson
Iris Birdseye
Zara Hassanali
William Lall
Barnaby Walker
Eleanor Burton
Casper Hegarty
Francesca McIntyre
Ariana Wilks
Rory Conder
Oliver Hick
Kian Noorani
Monty Zaltzman
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Second Year Prizewinners 2020
Special Prizes for Outstanding Achievement
Awarded to those who have been placed in the top three nominations in at least three (Merit) or four (Distinction) subjects.
Annabelle King
Distinction
Chemistry, Computer Science, Geography, Mathematics, Music and Physics
Rufus Knight
Distinction
Chemistry, Design &Technology, Drama, Geography, German, Music and Spanish
William McIntyre
Distintion
Computer Science, Design &Technolgoy, English, French, History, Latin, Mathematics, Physics, Religion &Philosphy and Spanish
Subject Prizes Art
Jane Lang-Horgan
History
Angelica Hooton
Biology
Amelia Virtue
Latin
Phoebe Davidson
Chemistry
Alfie Greggs
Mathematics
Stanley Walker
Computer Science
Oliver Williams
Music
Edmund Hambly
Design & Technology
Amelie Morris
Physical Education (Boys)
Archie Rushin
Drama
Phoebe Pyke
Physical Education (Girls)
Phoebe Dallyn
English
Ruby Snow
Physics
Toby Medley
French
Holly Gowing
Religion & Philosophy
Violet Moffat
Geography
Isabel Cassidy
Spanish
Luke Davies
German
Evan Cocksworth-Jones
Cum Laude Prizes Awarded to those who have fulfilled a number of the following criteria: demonstrated outstanding effort and application throughout the year, received prize nominations in a number of subjects, made a significant all-round contribution to school life, made commendable progress during the course of the year.
Rose Bruce
Ben Hegan
Thomas Le Marchant
Hermione Nichols
Max Cropley
Anabelle Hewett
Tristan Lewis
Lexie Oliver
Benjamin Ford
Lauren Hill
Isabella Liedtke
Annabel Steven
Bella Gaunt
Matilda Hill
Katerina Masic
Alice Stratton-Brown
Madeleine Gay
Sophia Lane
Archibald McCreadie
Thomas Welsh
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Third Year Prizewinners 2020
Special Prizes for Outstanding Achievement Awarded to those who have been placed in the top three nominations in at least three (Merit) or four (Distinction) subjects.
Joel Ireland
Distinction
Biology, Chemistry, Latin and Physics
Louisa Moor
Distinction
Art, Biology, Chemistry, Geography, German and History
Julia Nicholls
Distinction
Design & Technology, English, French, History, Physics and Religion & Philosphy
Caitlin Stevens
Distinction
Computer Science, English, Latin, Music and Religion & Philosophy
Katie Baird
Merit
ICT, Geography and Physical Education
Isaac Lucraft
Merit
Computer Science, French and Spanish
Joshua Wild
Merit
German, Music and R&P
Subject Prizes Art
Lucy Oliver
History
Amelie Jones
Biology
Samuel Waring
ICT
Jacob Offer
Chemistry
William Cannon
Latin
Benedict Hughes
Classical Civilisation
Madeline Price Wickenden
Mathematics
Laurence Horwood
Computer Science
Harvey Gardner
Music
Josephine Scott Plummer
Design & Technology
Emma Stanley
Physical Education (Boys)
Henry Stephens
Drama
Amy Lloyd
Physical Education (Girls)
Charlotta Jordan
English
Zack Barker
Physics
William Cowling
French
Harry Haynes
Religion & Philosophy
Jack Catto
Geography
Clementine Foster
Spanish
Emily Greenall
German
Oliver Gardner
Sports Leaders
William Hewett
Cum Laude Prizes Awarded to those who have fulfilled a number of the following criteria: demonstrated outstanding effort and application throughout the year, received prize nominations in a number of subjects, made a significant all-round contribution to school life, made commendable progress during the course of the year.
Molly Ashworth
Gabriella Hibberd
Eve Marden
Jemima Billsberry-Grass
Jago Howes
Rebecca Martin
Daisy Coffey
Oliver Irwin
Lauren Mutch
Harry Cooper
Charlotte Jackson
Beth Thorpe
Ella Hart
Noah Jarrad
Maisie Weller
Oliver Hewett
Freya Logan
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Lower School Awards 2020
Awarded to those who have made a significant contribution to wider school life
School Council Award
Awarded for significant contribution to school life
Rosie Porter
Acting Prize Jackson Wilks
Tower Memorial Prize
Awarded for significant all-round contribution to school life, including charitable work
Eloise Nickols Madeline Price Wickenden Isobel Zaltzman
Centurion Prize
Awarded those 1st Year pupils who have strived to reach the closest to completing the 100 Challenge
Georgina Stratton-Brown Molly Taylor
Captains of College Prize
Awarded for significant commitment to the school and overall achievement during the course of the year
Gabriella Hibberd Dominic Porter
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149
Fourth Year Prizewinners 2020 Special Prizes for Outstanding Achievement Awarded to those who have been placed in the top three nominations in at least three (Merit) or four (Distinction) subjects.
Eleanor Lofthouse
Distinction
Biology, English, Latin, Music and Spanish
Darcia Scott
Distinction
English, Music, Physical Education and Religion & Philosophy
Olivia Sexton
Distinction
Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, History and Spanish
Nuria Bertran
Merit
Art, Physics and Religion & Philosphy
Mia Clark
Merit
Combined Science, Physical Education and Sports Science
Isabel Harris
Merit
French, Physical Education and Sports Science
James Moses
Merit
Chemistry, History and Physics
James Restall
Merit
Geography, Mathematics and Sports Science
Subject Prizes Art
Frank Hodges
German
Lucia Sparks
Biology
Jude Inkley
History
Alexander Frizzell
Chemistry
William Myles
Latin
Liam Glazebrook
Classical Civilisation
Grace Preston
Mathematics
Charles Murphy
Combined Science
Scarlet Hall
Music
Elliot Medley
Computer Science
Kit Matthewson
Physical Education (Boys)
Henry Bowen
Design & Technology
Luke Offer
Physical Education (Girls)
Isabella Sharper
Drama
Phoebe Batt
Physics
Ralf Winson
English
Sebastian Taylor
Religion & Philosophy
Broghan Collier
French
Olivia Cropley
Spanish
Lewis Jordan
Geography
Louise Reed
Sports Science
Olivia Bristow
Cum Laude Prizes Awarded to those who have fulfilled a number of the following criteria: demonstrated outstanding effort and application throughout the year, received prize nominations in a number of subjects, made a significant all-round contribution to school life, made commendable progress during the course of the year.
Sergei Bjelica
Sophie Knowles
Lola Ramseyer
Jack Thomas
Oliver Bowen
Emily Martin
Finlay Rushin
Alice Wadsley Stroud
Megan Cullen
Hannah Martin
Emilia Sharp
Theo West
Christina Holligon
Annabelle Mason
Amelie Smith
Archie Withers
Isabelle Jupe
James Noble
Bo Texier
Benjamin Wright
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Fifth Year Prizewinners 2020 Special Prizes for Outstanding Achievement Awarded to those who have been placed in the top three nominations in at least three (Merit) or four (Distinction) subjects.
George Feeney
Distinction
Biology, German, History and Religion & Philosphy
Oliver Fogelin
Distinction
Computer Science, English, Mathematics and Physics
Sophie Kรถnig
Distinction
Art, Biology, English and Physics
Harrison Knight
Distinction
Biology, French, Geography, History and Mathematics
Anna Hughes
Merit
Drama, English and Religion & Philosophy
James Hill
Merit
French, Geography and Mathematics
Subject Prizes Art
Elizabeth Lewis
German
Amy Browne
Biology
Matilda Shapland
History
Samuel Paul
Chemistry
Oliver Kettel
Latin
Lowri Hegan
Classical Civilisation
Felix Dows-Miller
Mathematics
Isabelle Whittle
Combined Science
Rachel Large
Music
Jonas Flohr
Computer Science
Thomas Jackson
Physical Education (Boys)
Alexander Sandberg
Design & Technology
Sebastian Royds
Physical Education (Girls)
Adelaide Matson
Drama
Amelia Gaisford
Physics
Matthew Hodges
English
Maximilian Brockdorff
Religion & Philosophy
Iestyn Cocksworth-Jones
French
Georgia Humberstone
Spanish
Mara James
Geography
Elizabeth Foster
Sports Science
Kai Jackson
Cum Laude Prizes Awarded to those who have fulfilled a number of the following criteria: demonstrated outstanding effort and application throughout the year, received prize nominations in a number of subjects, made a significant all-round contribution to school life, made commendable progress during the course of the year.
Florence Ashworth
Elliot Emslie
Olivia Knowles
William Porter
Lauren Walton
Benjamin Botham
Isaac Franklin
Rosie Lock
May Procter
Antonia Wilkinson
Lily Bradbery
Elena Houghton
Jared Lucraft
Alice Robinson
Megara Wilkinson
Sophie Carrick
Holly Humberstone
Sacha Mayson
Catherine Sexton
James Willson
William Craven
Celia Jolliffe
James Medley
Oliver Slingsby
Josiah Wilson
Eilidh Edward
Rhianna Jones
Emma Parmenter
Matilda Thomas
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Lower Sixth Prizewinners 2020 Special Prizes for Outstanding Achievement Awarded to those who have been placed in the top three nominations in at least three (Merit) or four (Distinction) subjects.
Zoe Blackburn
Merit
English, Latin and Spanish
Megan Hassanali
Merit
Economics, English and History
Joss Hall
Merit
Biology, Chemistry and Geography
Kathryn Harris
Merit
Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics
Jacob Tutt
Merit
Chemistry, Mathematics and Physics
Subject Prizes Ancient History
Isabella Cox
Art
Charlotte Matthews
Ed Vergette Biology Prize Ed Vergette tragically died on 23 September 2013 whilst in the Upper Sixth. Ed enjoyed the adventurous activities in the school, but like many in their last year of school his true academic talents were beginning to emerge and Ed had the makings of an excellent biologist.
Catherine Gallagher
Business
Fleur Barrett
Chemistry
Luca Phillips Mateo
Simon Bones Memorial Prize for Computer Studies Simon Bones was an Old Churcherian (1982-1989). He graduated from Durham University in Computer Science. He was killed in a road accident in 1993.
Tyler Ward
Design & Technology
Fergus Brockwell
Drama
Lily Lyon
Economics
Kent Chapman
Emanuel Prize for English Originally given for essay writing, but then it became English in general. The prize appears in the Speech Day programme immediately after the war in recognition of Churcher’s playing host to Emanuel School, from London, during the war.
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The Churcherian 2020
Imogen Hyde
Lower Sixth Prizewinners 2020 Bond Memorial Prize for French The Headmaster, Rev. Bond who was at the school from 1893-1919 made many changes to the school, especially taking it from 40 pupils to 115 and making it much more of a credible private school. He introduced the teaching of French to the college in 1893, so even though he was a mathematician, he obviously had an appreciation of the wider aspects of education.
Nicholas Grill Prize for Geography Nicholas Grill was Deputy Head & Geography Teacher 1993-1995, when he died in a tragic accident whilst rescuing a child.
Jacob Housden
Alexander Bailey
History
William Bentley
Latin
Poppy Foster
Mathematics
Benedict Ellett
Music
Ella Conder
Physics
Guy Drake
Politics
Andrew Bell
Psychology
Constance Batt
Canon Tower Theology Prize Rev B. Tower was Headmaster 1919-1923. He maintained a keen interest in the College until his death in 1964. For 20 years he was president of the Old Churcherians. The memorial gates near the library are dedicated to him and his wife, Stella.
Thomas Howells
Spanish
Anqi Stenning
Sports Science
Georgia Chapman
Cum Laude Prizes Awarded to those who have fulfilled a number of the following criteria: demonstrated outstanding effort and application throughout the year, received prize nominations in a number of subjects, made a significant all-round contribution to school life, made commendable progress during the course of the year.
Frederick Anderson
Elizabeth Church
Holly Goddard
William (Alfie) Richards
James Arnold
Benjamin Cooley
Charlotte Jackson
Charlotte Roberts
Skye Bardoe
Benjamin Daunter
Charles Morris
Eve Rushin
Tallulah Birch
Timothy Emmens
Sophie Porteous
Kaitlin Shaw
Isabelle Brower
Benjamin Finbow
Isobel Pyatt
Emma Smitherman
Benjamin Burns
Toby Fitter
Rachel Pyke
James Cathrew
Charles Frizzell
Florence Ransom
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153
Upper Sixth Prizewinners 2020 A Level Subject Prizes
Awarded to last year’s Upper Sixth mainly on the basis of their A level results.
Ancient History
Flora Edward
Art
James Land
Biology
Madeleine Macey
Business
Esther Bateman
Chemistry
Oliver Mutch
Computer Science
Joshua Coates
Design & Technology
William Duke
Drama
Kirsty Foreman
Economics
Drew Laffoley-Lane
English
Anne Chamberlain
French
Rose Giffin
Geography
Molly Steele
German
Max Walton
History
Felix Williams
Mathematics
George Whittle
Music
Thomas Wild
Physics
Timothy Cordall
Politics
Samuel Redfern
Psychology
Oliver King
Religion & Philosophy
Elizabeth Gallagher
Spanish
Sophie Zoltowski
Sports Science
Jolyon Knowles
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155
School Awards The Marc Eaton Award Awarded annually in memory of Marc Eaton (1958-2016), who as a teacher at Churcher’s College for 35 years (1981-2016), and as Head of Hockey, the CCF and Director of Adventurous Activities, encouraged everyone to believe that they could achieve what, at first, might seem the unachievable. The award is presented by Marc and Cathy Eaton, (Cathy led girls’ sport at Churcher’s from 1988 to 2016), to the student who has shown the most adventure and independence of spirit; a ‘rare bird’ who has demonstrated by their achievements and attitude to life that they stand out from the flock and have made a difference.
Luca Phillips Mateo
“Luca Philips-Mateo is awarded for showing the same dogged determination which was a hallmark of Marc Eaton: undaunted by the cancellation of the Devizes to Westminster Canoe Marathon, Luca set himself the challenge to row the equivalent of 125 miles on a rowing machine and in the process raising over £3,000 for NHS charities.”
G.T. Schofield Memorial Science Prize G.T. Schofield was Headmaster from 1946-1966. He was a Cambridge science graduate and member of the Barnes Wallis’ team which developed the ‘bouncing bomb’ in 1943, used in the Dam Busters’ raid. He oversaw the building of the new science block, now the art rooms.
Kathryn Harris
Roy Bowden Prize for Economics Roy Bowden held a number of senior posts in his 42 year career at Churcher’s, including Head of Economics and Business Studies, and retired in 2014. He wishes to award this prize each year for progress and achievement in A Level Economics by a student who intends to read the subject at university.
Jude Franklin
Horan Prize for Mathematics Alan Horan was an Old Churcherian (1945-1947). He went to Birmingham University where he obtained a first class degree in engineering, but was constantly interested in Mathematics.
Jacob Tutt
The Marian Ellis Prize for Love of Languages Marian Ellis, born in 1920 in Wales, went to university in Cardiff, where she studied Botany and Zoology and also gained a teaching qualification. She joined Churcher's in 1942 teaching Biology and married Clive, himself an Old Churcherian, and they had a family. The family connection has continued, with a son and three grandchildren now Old Churcherians and a daughter on the Governing Board. Whilst a scientist at heart, Marian taught herself Spanish, and encouraged her family in modern languages with exchanges to France and Germany.
T.L. Wrightson Service to Music Trophy This dates from 1978 and was given by T. L. Wrightson.
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Jonas Flohr
Constance Batt
School Awards Socrates Prize Presented by Judy Grill to the student who has shown wisdom, courage and compassion in pursuit of Philosophy.
Phoebe Abraham
The David Pook Prize for Intellectual Entrepreneurship Awarded in memory of David Pook (1963-2011), R&P teacher, Director of Studies (2000-2004), thespian and academic adventurer. The award is presented to the student who has shown most adventure and independence in their academic studies. “Zoe Blackburn is awarded for continuing effort and inspiration above and beyond expectations and exam syllabi, including writing a thesis on ‘“But he got right to the top. And I heard harps in the air.” How does Ibsen present power and hysteria in Hedda Gabler and The Master Builder?’ and submitting an article for INK Magazine ‘Why Amy, not Jo, is the proto-feminist of Little Women.”
Zoe Blackburn
Donald Brooks Prize for Music Donald Brooks taught English and was Deputy Head (19681973). He was Headmaster (1973-1985), during which time he oversaw the move from state school to independent school and the introduction of girls. He was always keen to promote Music in the College.
The Gaffney Male Vocalist Cup Awarded for the most significant contribution to male vocal performance.
Timothy Emmens
Alfie Richards
The Stubbings Cup This prize is presented by the Stubbings family (Charlie 2013, Alice 2015, Jack 2018). Charlie & Jack both played hockey for England at U16 & U18, whilst Alice played for the South of England. All three then went on to represent their respective universities in hockey. The Stubbings Cup is awarded for outstanding achievement in a given sport and for a significant contribution to all aspects of school sporting life
Charles Morris
Mann Prize for English Progress Rachel Mann was the female Captain of College in 199091. She made great strides in her subject, so the English department offers the Mann Prize to students who have improved greatly.
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Florence Ransom
157
School Awards Peter Sutton Performing Arts Award This is awarded for a significant contribution, achievement or endeavour in the Performing Arts. Peter Sutton was a teacher at Churcher’s for 38 years from 1972 to 2010 during which time he was Head of Modern Languages and Deputy Headmaster. Amongst his many contributions to school life, his enthusiasm for and promotion of Drama in the school stands out.
Isabella Cox
Hoggarth Memorial Prize A.H.G. Hoggarth was Headmaster (1927-1946). He taught at the College from 1911, except when serviing in World War I and started the Churcherian magazine in 1913. Awarded for a significant all round contribution to school life
Isobel Pyatt
“Izzy Pyatt is awarded for services to the community: writing and publishing a weekly newsletter to accompany the Age Concern lunches cooked by the school, keeping those in isolation connected.”
Cindy Gallagher Memorial Drama Prize This prize is awarded for excellence and enterprise in Drama in memory of Cindy who was a very keen supporter of Performing Arts in the school.
Ben Mackay
Gill Clarke Pastoral Prize Gill Clarke was Deputy Head from 1993-2005. She encouraged pastoral care throughout the College and taught English in the College from 1987-2005.
Alice Hewett
“Al Hewett is awarded for the academic and pastoral support of younger pupils in the First and Second Year.”
The Martin Prize David Martin is an Old Churcherian (1947-1953), father of two other Old Churcherians and Governor (1981-1988 and 1996-2006). Awarded for significant service to school musi
The Chairman of the Governors’ Prize Awarded each year to the Captains of College
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Ella Conder
Sophie Porteous Thomas Howells
School Awards Graham Cox Memorial Prize for Service Graham Cox was an Old Churcherian (1965-1970). He joined the Royal Marines and was killed in Northern Ireland in April 1973. Awarded for a significant all round contribution to school life.
Benedict Taylor
Ben Taylor is awarded for services to the community: setting up a food bank in Liphook; recruiting a group of volunteers; arranging drop-offs in supermarkets for donation; organising the boxing, dispatch and deliveries of supplies.
Lord Horder Prize for Medicine Lord Horder was a Governor 1942 - 1952. He was a cancer specialist and extra physician to the kings Edward VII, George V, Edward VIII, George VI and Queen Elizabeth II and to three Prime Ministers. He was knighted in 1918 and made Baron in 1935. He died in 1955. He was President of the local British Legion and Consultant to Petersfield Hospital.
Alexander Dannatt
Jim Challen CCF Prize Jim Challen was an Old Churcherian (1935-1940) and Governor (1977-1983) . He was a Local Councillor and father of another Old Churcherian.
Jasper Browne
Nicholas Grill Trophy for Outdoor Pursuits Nicholas Grill was Deputy Head (1993-1995) when he died in a tragic accident, whilst rescuing a child. He was actively involved in outdoor activities, especially The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
Sebastian Kelson
Steve Isaac Award This is awarded for the greatest contribution, achievement or endeavour in outdoor adventure activities, including Duke of Edinburgh and Ten Tors. Steve Isaac, a parent of three Old Churcherians, has been a significant driving force and support instructor behind many outdoor activities in the school over a number of years.
The Churcherian 2020
Benedict Taylor
159
A Level and GCSE Results
GCSE Number Grades
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
Totals
2020
477
365
301
144
52
6
0
0
1345
2019
308 290
261
217
113
20
2
1
1212
7
6
5
4
3
2
225
118
40
14
0
B
C
D
E
No. Grades 2018 Number
8
264 256 245 A*
A
66
55
41
18
3
3
186
2017
394
374
333
94
14
0
1209
2016
391
416
291
126
20
2
1246
2015
329
411
335
127
28
5
1235
2014
329 439
264
93
24
3
1152
5
4
3
3.9
0.6
0.0
2020 2019 No. Grades 2018
9
8
7
6
35.5 27.1 22.4 10.7 26.0 23.9 22.1 9
8
22.0 22.1 A*
Letter Grades 2018
148.5 144
2018
68
0.0
2017
63
9.3
1.7
0.0
0.2
5
4
3
3
21.3
19.4
10.2
3.4
1.2
0
B
C
D
E
22.0
9.7
1.6
1.6
10.3
4.3
0.1
1.4
Number
2016
A 128 102
B
C
D
94
24
2
0
0
412.5
7
4
0
347.5 306.5
77.5 39.5 99
96.5 108.5
72.5 128.5
87
E
U
30.5
7
0
0
51
20
6
0
345
48
7
5.5
1
349.5 293
2015
41.5 107.5 83.5 41.5
11
6
2
2014
33.5
112
92.5
52
18.5
3
1
313
2013
48
117.5
106
64
22
5
0
362.5
41
328.5
128.5 96.5
49
12.5
1
1
2020
2012
36.0 34.9 22.8
5.8
0.5
0
0
2019
26.3 36.9 22.0
11.6
2.1
1.2
0
2017
32.6 31.2
27.6
7.9
1.1
0.1
2018
22.0 33.3 32.3
9.9
2.1
0
0
2016
31.4 33.4
23.3
10.1
1.6
0.1
2017
18.3 27.9 31.5
14.8
6.1
1.7
0
27.1
10.2
2.2
0.4
2016
20.7 36.8 25.9 13.7
2.0
1.7
0.3
9-6 9-5 9-4
9-3
9-2
2015
14.2 36.7 28.5 14.2
3.8
2.0
0.8
2014
10.7 35.8 29.6 16.6
5.9
1.0
0.4
2013
13.2 32.4 29.2
17.7
6.1
1.4
0
2012
12.5
14.9
3.8
0.3
0.3
2020
36.0 70.9 93.7 99.5 100.0 100.0
2019
26.3 63.2 85.2 96.8 98.8 100.0
2018
22.2 55.5 87.8 97.7 100.0 100.0
2015 Number Grades
26.6 33.3 9
9-8
9-7
2020
35.5 62.6 85.0 95.7 99.6 100.0 100.0 100.0
2019
26.0 49.8 71.2 88.9 98.2 99.8 99.8 100.0
No. Grades 2018
22.0 44.5 65.8 83.9 95.4 98.8 98.8 98.8
Letter Grades 2018
9
9-8 A*
9-7
9-6 9-5 9-4
9-3
A*-A
A*-B A*-C A*-D A*-E
34.9 65.1
87.1 96.8 100.0 100.0
2017
32.6 63.5
2016
31.4 64.8
88.1 98.2 98.2 98.3
2015
31.9 78.7
95.7 100.0 100.0 100.0
27.8 41.9
%
9-3
2018 Combined 22.0 43.5 65.7 83.9 94.2 98.5 98.6 100.0
Average last 6 years
160
2020
2
6
A
A* 91.5
17.7
34.9 30.9
A Level
2019
7
2018 Combined 22.0 21.5 22.2 18.2
Cumulative %
1162
Letter Grades 2018
Number Grades
%
9
91.1 98.8 100.0 100.0
71.4 89.5 94.5 99.2 99.4 99.7
The Churcherian 2020
A*
Cumulative %
39.1
29.1
A*-A A*-B A*-C A*-D A*- E
2017
18.3 46.2 77.7 92.5 98.3 100.0
2016
20.7 57.5 82.4 96.1 98.1 99.7
2015
14.2 50.9 79.4 93.5 97.3 99.3
2014
10.7 46.2 76.2 92.8 98.7 99.7
Average over 21.2 55.7 83.2 95.5 98.7 99.8 7 years
The Churcherian 2020
161
A Level Results 2020 Cumulative Percentage
A Level 2020 Ancient History (Previously Class. Civ) Art & Design Biology Business Chemistry Computer Science Drama & Theatre Studies Design & Technology Economics English Literature French Geography German History Latin Mathematics Further Mathematics Music Physical Education Physics Politics Psychology Religion & Philosophy Spanish Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
162
2020 2019
A*
A*-A
0.0
100.0 100.0
100.0 100.0 100.0
87.5
0.0
2020 56.3
2019 60.0
2020 28.9 2019 22.2
2020 15.0 2019
100.0 100.0 100.0
50.0
83.3
65.8
85.0
67.6
97.3
2019 23.3
63.3
2019
0.0
0.0
2019
14.3
2019
57.1
2019
17.4
2020 50.0
94.7
70.0
90.9
2020 33.3
98.3
80.0
18.2
2020 24.3
A-B
90.9 76.7
A-D
A-E
100.0 100.0 100.0
16
9
5
100.0 100.0 100.0
38
11
14
100.0 100.0 100.0
20
3
11
100.0 100.0 100.0
37
9
16
100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 94.4
100.0 100.0
100.0 100.0 100.0
0
7
1
100.0 100.0 100.0
27
100.0 100.0 100.0
100.0 100.0 100.0
73.9
100.0
73.7
100.0
64.7
94.1
100.0 100.0 100.0
23
4
100.0 100.0 100.0
59.4
90.6
-
-
2020
24.1 -
2019 50.0
2020 50.0 2019
31.0
2020 81.3
55.2
79.3
100.0 100.0 79.2
93.8
93.8
2020 25.0
69.2
2019 42.9
71.4
92.9
52.8
-
100.0 100.0 100.0
77.8
97.9 91.4
96.6 100.0
100.0 100.0 100.0
100.0 100.0 100.0 87.5
100.0 100.0
100.0 100.0 100.0
92.9
100.0 100.0 100.0
79.2
95.8
100.0 100.0 100.0
66.7
100.0
100.0 100.0 100.0
57.1
2019 33.3
83.3
2019
33.3
2019 45.5
-
100.0
100.0 100.0 100.0
44.0
0.0
-
93.1
83.3
2019 24.0
2020 56.5
93.1
32
29 0
4
9 7
2
75.0
46.2
2020 55.6
100.0 100.0 100.0
1
62.5
19.2
2020 44.4
1
100.0 100.0 100.0
2019
2020 58.3
100.0 100.0 100.0
100.0 100.0 100.0
4
100.0
55.6
2020 28.6
1
19
42.9
2019 22.2
2020 16.7
2
100.0 100.0 100.0
13
83.3
77.8 91.3
81.8
92.0
100.0
100.0 83.3
100.0 90.9
1
2
4
1
2 1
1
1
1
3
4
88.5
58 4 7
6 8
9
100.0 100.0 100.0
100.0 100.0 100.0
The Churcherian 2020
2
6
23 11
0
13 5
10 1
7
6
5
4
3
1
2
5
1
7
4 4
2
2
9 9
3
2
13
12
1
1
6 6
1
7
1
36 25
1
1
4
6
1
0
3
4
5
1
2
4
4
3
4
5
11
5
12
6
2
2
3 2
1
1
1
6 2
2
3
1
4
1
1
8
1
7
2
4
14 14
100.0 100.0 100.0
2
14
5
100.0 100.0 100.0
100.0 100.0 100.0
10
9
2
2
2
10
1
2
2
6
4
18
0
7
10
14
26
100.0 100.0 100.0
1
24
100.0 100.0
100.0 100.0 100.0
13
18
1
E
1
0
3
9
17
D
1
0
1
2
3
7
2
5
2
2
4
100.0 100.0 100.0
16
66.7
0.0
11
5
100.0 100.0 100.0
2019
3
0
5
100.0
100.0 100.0
12
6
8
24
2019 50.0
2020 14.3
8
11
3
48
79.3
5
17
100.0 100.0
62.1
1
100.0 100.0 100.0
100.0 100.0 100.0
2020 28.1
1
2
6
94.1
2019 100.0 100.0 100.0
2
8
76.5
100.0 100.0
3
19
2020 23.5
2020 50.0
4
C
13
100.0 100.0 100.0
94.7
2
B
1
5
100.0
73.7
2
4
60.0
50.0
6
7
7
2020 40.0
50.0
2
1
6
2019
4
100.0 100.0 100.0
85.7
92.6
6
30
100.0 100.0 100.0
71.4
0
100.0 100.0 100.0
4
2020 42.1
2019
11
100.0 100.0 100.0
100.0
66.7
21.1
18
100.0
2020 18.5
2019
10
75.0
100.0 100.0
2019 50.0
3
100.0 100.0 100.0
42.9
A
0
100.0 0.0
A*
1
83.3
2020 66.7
17.6
A-C
Number
Number of entries
2
3
1
3
2
2
GCSE Examination Results 2020 GCSE RESULTS 2020
Cumulative % 9-4 A*-C
9-3 A*-D
2020 47.6 83.3 97.6 97.6 100.0 100.0
100.0
Classical Civilisation
2020 18.8 50.0 68.8 87.5 100.0 100.0
100.0
Computer Science
2020 20.0 33.3 66.7 93.3 100.0 100.0
Design & Technology
2020 29.2 42.1 63.2 89.5 94.7 100.0
100.0
24
2020 26.3 42.1 63.2 89.5 94.7 100.0
100.0
Art & Design
Drama English Language English Literature French Geography German History Latin Mathematics
(includes set 1 results taken a year early)
Music Physical Education Religious Studies Science Trilogy 1 Science Trilogy 2 Science - Biology Science Chemistry Science - Physics Spanish
9
9-8 A*
Number
9-7 9-5 A*-A 9 - 6 A*-B
2019 48.0 72.0 96.0 100.0 100.0 100.0
2019 20.0 20.0 40.0 100.0 100.0 100.0
2019 18.5 29.6 48.1
74.1 92.6 100.0
2019 15.2 48.5 60.6 81.8 97.0 100.0 2019
11.1
2020 18.2
22.2 44.4 88.9 100.0 100.0 51.7 83.2 98.6 100.0 100.0
2019 10.4 23.2 46.4 74.4 96.0 100.0
2020 18.2 50.3 79.7 94.4 99.3 100.0
8 A*
7 A
6
5 B
42
20
15
6
0
1
16
3
5
3
3
2
3
3
2
3
3
4
5
22
25
100.0
5
100.0
12
6
1
0
7
10
19
5
3
100.0
143
26
48
45
100.0
143
26
46
42
100.0
46
12
9
100.0
100.0 100.0
26.6 45.2 79.0 96.0 100.0
100.0
2019
11.9
23.8 54.8 73.8 100.0 100.0
100.0
2019 33.8 66.2 83.1 94.4 98.6 100.0
100.0
27
5
33 9
125 124 42
5 1
13
3
5
11
4
1
2
16
14
19
5
1
1
5
100.0
16
6
3
11.3
2020 33.9 71.0 93.5 96.8 100.0 100.0
9
100.0
2019
2020 26.1 45.7 69.6 84.8 100.0 100.0
TOTAL
3 7
5
2
7
5
1
4
1
1
1
2
35
27
5
23
42
21
5
13
8
11
12
8
3
21
62
100.0
36
100.0
99
40
25
22
2020 50.0 90.9 95.5 100.0 100.0 100.0
100.0
22
11
100.0
143
48
14
1
2020 33.6 62.2 88.1 97.2 100.0 100.0
7
9
41
37
13
4
2020 19.4 25.0 55.6 88.9 100.0 100.0 2019
5.6
5.6
33.3 88.9 94.4
94.4
2020 40.4 65.7 87.9 96.0 100.0 100.0 2019 39.4 71.8 87.3 93.0 100.0 100.0
2019 21.2 63.6 90.9 93.9 100.0 100.0
94.4
100.0
100.0
18 71
33
23
14
7
2
11
7
100.0
71
21
7
7
24
23
1
28
0
23
2
2
12
4
8
4
5
10
11
4 1
100.0
125
38
36
32
15
3
100.0
22
7
7
5
2
1
2020 31.0 50.0 69.0 90.5 95.2 100.0
100.0
9
2
2019 48.7 64.1 87.2 100.0 100.0 100.0
2020 29.2 45.8 79.2 89.6 97.9 100.0 2019 23.3 50.0 76.7 90.0 96.7
2020 41.5
96.7
63.1 84.6 96.9 100.0 100.0
100.0
5
6
9
5
13
8
14
8
16
5
4
8
2
5
1
39
19
30
7
8
65
27
14
14
100.0
65
33
14
12
100.0
78
47
23
100.0
41.1
6
100.0
2019 10.0 23.3 53.3 86.7 100.0 100.0 2019
3
48
100.0 100.0
2020 60.3 89.7 98.7 100.0 100.0 100.0
42
4
100.0
2019 20.0 33.3 76.7 96.7 100.0 100.0
2020 50.8 72.3 90.8 98.5 100.0 100.0
18
30
30
8
6
8
4
3
4
4
13
6
9
10
7
100.0
95
39
28
16
12
2019 49.5 78.9 95.8 100.0 100.0 100.0
100.0
95
47
28
16
4
100.0
95
28
35
16
12
98.6
71
7
15
15
11
2020 66.7 91.0 98.7 100.0 100.0 100.0 2020 57.7 83.3 96.2 100.0 100.0 100.0 2019 29.5 66.3 83.2 95.8 100.0 100.0
2020 16.9 40.7 72.9 88.1 98.3 100.0 2019
9.9
31.0
GCE Freestanding Mathematics Qualification (taken in 5th Year)
GCE Mathematics (FSMQ)
2020 2019
52.1 67.6 94.4
98.6
100.0 100.0 100.0
Cumulative % A
A-B
44.4
77.8
36.4
78
52
19
78
45
59
10
6
20
1
2 1
0
0
1
1
4
1
10
14
2
1
70.5 87.4 100.0 100.0 100.0
1
2
2019 30.4 59.2 84.8 96.8 99.2 100.0
100.0
1
5
2020 31.8 63.6 86.4 95.5 100.0 100.0
2019 22.2 38.9 72.2 100.0 100.0 100.0
3 E
1
1
1
9
3 D
1
29
11
5
4 C
3
19
9
4
6
19
1
3
1
Number A-C
A-D
A-E
100.0 100.0 100.0
50.0 86.44 95.5
The Churcherian 2020
95.5
TOTAL
A
B
C
27
11
8
8
22
8
3
8
D
E
2
-
163
School Colours Awards 2020
Full Colours CCF
Joshua Banks Samuel Rose
Drama
Samuel Rose
Boys’ Hockey James Allen Henry McMillan
Girls’ Hockey
Catherine Gallagher Elizabeth Gallagher Holly Thompson Evie Walker-Smith Selina Walker-Smith
Music
James Coni Kirsty Foreman Peter Hindson Anna Lezdkan Alec Murray Rachel Newberry Molly Steele Benjamin Steggall Augustus Tranter Madeline Walker-Moffitt Thomas Wild Imogen Williams
Netball
Emily Nellist Evie Walker-Smith
Perfoming Arts Flora Edward Kirsty Foreman
Rugby
William Keohane Jolyon Knowles Oliver Mutch Thomas Purnell Benjamin Williams
Swimming
Matthew Mason Thomas Parmenter Benjamin Williams
164
Half Colours CCF
Performing Arts
Jasper Browne Katherine Hutchinson Benjamin Williams
Joshua Byford Katherine Hutchinson Matilda Shapland
Boys' Cricket Adam Childs
Rugby
Drama
Benjamin Mackay Emma O'Kelly
Boys’ Hockey
Joshua Becvar Benjamin Burns Toby Fitter Callum Francis Jonathan Hoe Jolyon Knowles Charles Morris Alfie Richards Jasper Wilson
Girls’ Hockey
Skye Bardoe Tirion Llewelyn Rachel Pyke Eve Rushin
Music
Constance Batt Benedict Brandon Ella Conder Isabella Cox Kyne Devenish Timothy Emmens Benjamin Fleck Anna Lezdkan Alec Murray Amy Robinson Emily Sandberg
Netball
Isabelle Brower Kathryn Harris Isobel Pyatt Charlotte Roberts Eve Rushin Selina Walker-Smith
The Churcherian 2020
Benjamin Allden Gabriel Barwick Jude Franklin Frederick Greenwood Benjamin Kay George McCurrach Charles Morris Louis Wright
Swimming
James Arnold
Waterpolo
William Hipsey
The Churcherian 2020
165
Individual Music Examination Results Associated Board, Trinity Guildhall, London College of Music
Name
Subject
Grade
Result
Jonas Flohr Recorder ARSM Dist. Jonas Flohr Flute ARSM Merit Rachel Newberry Flute ARSM Merit Imogen Williams Singing ARSM Merit Rose Giffin Muisic Theatre 8 Dist. Alec Murray Music Theatre 8 Dist. Holly Humberstone Singing 8 Merit Tim othy Orchard Guitar 8 Merit Alexander Way Guitar 8 Merit Antonia Wilkinson Clarinet 8 Merit Megara Wilkinson Oboe 8 Merit Benedict Brandon Singing 8 Pass Caitlin Stevens Oboe 7 Dist. Caitlin Sevens Singing 7 Dist. Emily Sandberg Singing 7 Merit Megara Wilkinson Singing 7 Merit James Arnold Piano 7 Pass Fleur Barrett Singing 7 Pass Isabelle Brower Piano 7 Pass Isabelle Whittle Piano 7 Pass Benjamin Botham Music Theatre 6 Dist. Catherine Gallagher Guitar 6 Dist. Elliot Medley Alto Sax 6 Dist. William Cowling Recorder 6 Merit Freya Davey Singing 6 Merit George Feeney Trumpet 6 Merit Moritz Flohr Drums 6 Merit Rachel Large Violin 6 Merit Thomas Le Marchant Piano 6 Merit Emily Mason Music Theatre 6 Merit Sophie Meeson Alto Saxophone 6 Merit Henry Tasker Cello 6 Merit Katherine Hutchinson Oboe 6 Pass Matthew Russell Trumpet 6 Pass Florence Ranson Singing 6 Pass Darcia Scott Clarinet 6 Pass Amy Browne Bass Guitar 5 Dist. Amelie Morris Music Theatre 5 Dist. Thomas Wild Jazz Piano 5 Dist. Sophie Carrick Bassoon 5 Merit Edward Jackson Piano 5 Merit Zachary Lipsomb Trumpet 5 Merit Kaitlin Shaw Alto Sasophone 5 Merit Benjamin Shine Singing 5 Merit Jackson Wilks Singing 5 Merit Felix Williams Alto Saxophone 5 Merit Katherine Withers Singing 5 Merit Megan Barnes Recorder 5 Pass Toby Bayne-Powell Piano 5 Pass Laila Keita Violin 5 Pass
166
The Churcherian 2020
Emily Martin Clarinet 5 Pass Eloise Nickols Violin 5 Pass Isaac Tope Flute 5 Pass Matthew Wagstaff Singing 5 Pass Charlotta Jordan Music Theatre 4 Dist. Sophie Knowles Singing 4 Dist. Lucas Pecud Drums 4 Dist. Cerys Rix Music Theatre 4 Dist. Dominic Hardie Drums 4 Merit Christina Holligon Singing 4 Merit William Cannon Piano 4 Pass Ruby Hall Singing 4 Pass Sophia Lane Flute 4 Pass Ava Stirling Violin 4 Pass Lydia Wilson Flute 4 Pass Flora Arthur Guitar 3 Dist. Eleanor Lofthouse Clarinet 3 Dist. Tristan Lewis Drums 3 Dist. Benjamin Prodger Trumpet 3 Dist. Elizabeth Foster Singing 3 Merit Eve Marden Singing 3 Merit Benjamin Prodger Piano 3 Merit Josephine Scott-Plummer Singing 3 Merit Jemima Billsberry-Grass Piano 3 Pass Thomas Cochrane Clarinet 3 Pass Kitty Hogg Clarinet 3 Pass Joel Ireland Clarinet 3 Pass Laetitia Nickols Cornet 3 Pass Alice Stratton-Brown Clarinet 3 Pass Henry Vaughan Trumpet 3 Pass George Williams Guitar 3 Pass Sidney Brockwell Piano 2 Merit Alice Fimpel Alto Saxophone 2 Merit Rupert Haworth Singing 2 Merit Rupert Haworth Trombone 2 Merit Alfred Hughes Trombone 2 Merit Lucy Oliver Guitar 2 Merit Charles Briggs Trumpet 2 Pass Alexander Fairbrass Piano 2 Pass Dominic Jolliffe Trumpet 2 Pass Freya Logan Singing 2 Pass Amy Lloyd Singing 2 Pass Harriet Williams Singing 2 Pass Jessica Lofthouse Singing 1 Dist. Amaan Noorani Piano 1 Dist. Eleanor Burton Piano 1 Merit Lucy Oliver Violin 1 Merit Joshua Wild Piano 1 Merit Isabel Jones Singing 1 Pass
Music Theory Examinations Name
Amy Browne
5
Grade
Result
Elliot Medley
5
Distinction
Jackson Wilks
5
Distinction
Harry Marden
5
Merit
William Myles
5
Merit
Laila Keita
5
Pass
Isaac Tope
5
Pass
Distinction
The Extended Project Qualification Joshua Byford
William Duke
Madeleine Macey
Hannah Snelling
Anne Chamberlain
Jude Franklin
Philippa Madden
Molly Steele
Adam Childs
Elizabeth Gallagher
Charles Mawson
Oliver Waite
William Coni
Peter Hindson
Alec Murray
Madeline Walker-Moffitt
Timothy Cordall
Matthew Holland
Natalie Slater
Benjamin Williams
Emily Duke
Amelie Lewis
Annabelle Smith
The Churcherian 2020
167
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme Completed Awards 2019 - 2020
Name
Award Level
Name
Award Level
James Allen Joshua Banks Joshua Byford Adam Childs William Coni Robert Craig-Wood Alexander Dannatt Kyne Devenish Elliot Dewdney Emily Duke William Duke Callum Francis Jude Franklin Alysia Hoe Katherine Hutchinson Eva Ihezue Annabelle Jenkins Oliver King Megan Knight Amelie Lewis Peter Mazzey Holly Milner Annabelle Powell Elizabeth Remington Grace Roberts Amy Robinson Adam Smith Olivia Strick Holly Thompson George Utting Evie Walker-Smith Selina Walker-Smith Max Walton Benjamin Williams Fintan Wood
Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold Gold
Kathryn Harris Megan Hassanali Alice Hewett Jonathan Hoe Jacob Housden Phoebe Hutchins Imogen Hyde Anna Jackson Sebaastian Kelson Angus Kilpatrick Eoin Martyn Timothy Matthewson James Medley Louis Morgan Luca Phillips-Mateo Rory Plewes Sophie Porteous Joseph Putland Isobel Pyatt Rachel Pyke Marcus Rayner Charlotte Roberts Emily Sandberg Frederick Slingsby Madeline Smith William Smith Archie Somers Jacob Tutt Tyler Ward Elinor Watling Isobel Wilson
Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver
Skye Bardoe Tallulah Birch Maximilian Brockdorff Isabelle Brower Jasper Browne Georgia Chapman Kent Chapman Benjamin Cooley Hannah Cooper Timothy Emmens Harry Fagge Charles Frizzell Joss Hall
Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver
Phoebe Abraham Benjamin Allden Will Ashing Oban Baird Avril Becker Nuria Bertran Betty Billsberry-Grass Sergei Bjelica Benjamin Botham Henry Bowen Oliver Bowen Gregor Breen Olivia Bristow Amy Browne Benjamin Bushell Yonas Campbell Victoria Chantler
Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze
168
The Churcherian 2020
Name
Award Level
Name
Award Level
Mia Clark Iestyn Cocksworth-Jones William Coni Mia Corrigan Matthew Cox Megan Cullen Caitlin Elliot-Hughes Elizabeth Foster Isaac Franklin Alexander Frizzell Maximilian Golding Rose Greenall Alexander Greenall Benjamin Hall Scarlet Hall Benjamin Harris Amy Harrison James Hill Matthew Hodges Frank Hodges Tom Hogg Christine Holligon Elena Houghton Anna Hughes Georgia Humberstone Jude Inkley Thomas Jackson Arthur Johnson Celia Jolliffe Miranda Jolliffe John Jones Rhianna Jones Lewis Jordan Isabelle Jupe Thomas Keohane Harrison Knight Olivia Knowles Rachel Large Harrington Lawson Quentin Voulzy Barnaby Lewis Joel Lewis Robert Lewis Arthur Lilley Olivia Linares Harry Marden Emily Martin Annabel Mathieson Adelaide Matson Kit Matthewson
Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze
Sacha Mayson George McCurrach Elliot Medley Kim Monkman Rory Morris Lillian Morrison Charles Murphy William Myles James Noble Luke Offer Henry Plewes Luke Plummer Francesco Powell Grace Preston Luca Pullano Joseph Ramsay Louise Reed Heera Rendall James Restell Alice Robinson Joshua Rowley Sebastian Royds Matthew Russell Darcia Scott Olivia Sexton Emilia Sharp Oliver Slingsby Oliver Smith Thomas Steer Madeleine Sutcliffe Henry Tasker Nicholas Taylor Jack Thomas Finley Thorpe Rowan Tosdevine Lewis Tosdevine Lara Virtue Jake Wadsley Matthew Wagstaff Lauren Walton Jake West Antonia Wilkinson Emily Wilkinson George Williams Ralf Winson Archie Withers Benjamin Wright Oscar Young Hannah Zoltowski
Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze
The Churcherian 2020
169
170
The Churcherian 2020
The Churcherian 2020
171
