The Cliftonian Magazine 2022/23

The Cliftonian

Thoughts from the year

In late July 2022, I attended a meeting with the College’s architects about our potential plans if the College were able to acquire the zoo site.

Successful meeting concluded, I set about travelling by train, back down to Cornwall where my family was on holiday. It was in the middle of that

period of record temperatures and, as the journey progressed, morale started to fall away.

The promised buffet car from Bristol had not, in fact, been part of the train, and at Exeter the guard announced that the trolley service was also to be an unfulfilled hope. The carriage was hot and the occupants disgruntled. As conversations fizzled out we all became aware of a young lad and his mum taking part in a quiz. “What word becomes shorter when you add two letters to it?” asked his mum (short was the answer). “What building has the most stories?” Behind me there was some discussion about the Burj Khalifa, but the answer for most stories was, of course, a library. We were all hooked. As the train approached a

station, the question had just been “Explain how a boat full of passengers docks but there is not a single person on board.” A couple further down the train called out, “Can you please tell us the answer?”

The boy replied, “Do you want to have a guess?” “No,” they said in alarm. “This is our stop and we are going to miss it.”

The answer was that all the passengers were married rather than single. And so it continued until the boy and his mum left the train, but by then the whole carriage had been transformed. We had come together in that evening summer sunshine, and as we rolled along the Devon coastline, there was a sense of community drawn from shared fun and foolishness.

Clifton is at its heart a wonderful collection of so many different communities. Each of our leavers will have belonged to their own unique and often eclectic mix of such a wide range of groups. Throughout the year we all see so many examples of these different communities coexisting within the school. I remember the sense of shared nervous anticipation when I popped into the green room to wish a group of our musicians luck ahead of their concert in the Bristol Music Club, a concert which was the best ensemble playing I have ever heard at Clifton. Then there was the energy and sense of achievement among the cast and crew that all of us felt on that last gala night of the school musical, Chicago, or the superb production in the round of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, with the cast’s relatives and friends sitting inches from them on the stage.

I saw such great team spirit when I watched the girls’ 1st netball, the most successful team we have had in the last 10 years, in their final game against Cheltenham. The ball was being fired like a bullet from one end of the court to the other with no regard for safety and, occasionally, neither for the rules of netball. I think of that community of rowers taking part in the Schools’ Head of the River Race, the same course as the Oxford/Cambridge Boat Race: 6.8km and 20 minutes of endurance at full capacity; or the camaraderie of the 1862 cricketers playing against the staff and celebrating Max Hanson’s highest ever score as he stormed into double figures, out for 11. I remember arriving at Rugby School for their Sevens Tournament, joining teams from schools around the world to celebrate the bicentenary of the birth of the game and finding our squad piled on top of each other, snoozing in the Clifton tent after three previous days competing at Rosslyn Park. I then watched them as they played their final game representing Clifton on the very

pitch where the game of rugby started and where Percival as a teacher would have watched before coming to be our first Head in 1862. In May 2023, we hosted the Schools Triathlon with over 800 pupils aged seven to 13, raising money for the charity Restless Development. I saw our community of Sixth Form volunteers working so wonderfully well with the younger pupils, encouraging them and cheering them on, particularly in the swimming pool where some of the younger participants seemed as though the most water they had previously encountered had been in a bathtub.

The examples are endless. It might be the Creative Writing Group, or the group of pupils who represent the College at golf, where we are now in the top 10 in the country. It might be EDIB and the wonderfully colourful celebration of our first ever Pride Parade in April 2023. It might just be a group of Block II pupils playing football on Lower Slopes in the long lunch break with uniforms splattered in mud, or a group of pupils sitting in their House study, chatting nonsense and making friendships that will last a lifetime.

Everyone will have their own list, but what these communities share is that in all of them there is learning: learning how to be inclusive; learning empathy; learning how to be successful and how to deal with setbacks; and learning to appreciate others, to work together, to support each other and then, so importantly, how to do all this while having a really great time. All of our leavers will move on and become part of the community that is the Old Cliftonians; as you join a whole host of new communities that lie ahead in your future, please take what you have learnt from being at this school and make these communities all the better for your being part of them.

Dr Tim Greene Head of College

Heads of School Speeches

On 29th September 2012, a sunny Saturday afternoon,

aged eight and in my third week at Clifton, I was fortunate enough to play on the Close for the first time, celebrating 150 years of the Governor’s Cup.

Fast forward 11 years: two national lockdowns, over 2,000 BSK lunches, and one House Song win later (Yes, South Town did win House Song, though perhaps not for the vocal talent!) and I was lucky enough to play on the Close again.

Moving from a very small primary school, I remember my parents telling me that Clifton would provide opportunities to allow me to become the

best possible version of myself; opportunities to flourish and fail alike, taking the embarrassment out of success and the sting out of failure. Just three weeks into my Clifton journey, this was certainly proving to be the case.

‘Give things a go’ has always been the message since starting at the Pre. It would be easy for a school like Clifton to encourage you to focus on one thing and pursue it to the best of your

ability. Yet you are advised to do the opposite. Regardless of what you consider to be ‘your thing,’ Clifton encourages everyone to try everything, even if it lies outside your comfort zone. I would never have thought I would end up wearing a pair of fetching green tights playing Peter Pan in the Redgrave. I can confirm that this was certainly not in my comfort zone! I’m sure those pictures will live on to haunt me!

Some of my fondest Clifton memories stem from something I wouldn’t consider ‘my thing.’ Not much in life beats the feeling of pride and loyalty that comes with being part of Mr Loughrey’s 4th XI, AKA The 1862s: from Mr Loughrey’s Gladiator-themed inspirational quotes to designing our caps, which is far more prestigious than any 1st XI white blazer in my eyes; or even the time when Mr Salter was recruited to umpire an away fixture in Mr Loughrey’s absence, and was caught watching YouTube videos on ‘How to Umpire a Cricket Match’ on the bus there. Truth be told, not all these memories are quite so fond, because The 1862s also acted as a practice ground to learn to fail. Though I may never live it down, getting caught out first ball on the Close by your own sister certainly develops resilience!

During Ten Tors training, I came to appreciate how the values you learn on the sports field are remarkably transferable. After walking 45 miles across Dartmoor, your resilience and team spirit are certainly tested. There was one moment, after I had insisted the team do an extra five miles on our final training expedition, that I thought Max, whose boots were rubbing considerably, would genuinely never speak to me again. Perhaps my tactical underestimation that there were ‘only two miles to go,’ instead of the more accurate five, might have been the straw that broke the camel’s back. Yet, propelled by the values that The 1862s had instilled, we all made it to the end without coming to blows.

We are by no means amazing cricketers, nor striving for an elite level, yet this will hold as

much of a place in my Clifton memories as being made Head of School. You don’t need to be the best player to have the best time. To clarify, I am in no way saying that we should not be ambitious. Rather, Clifton has taught me that in our focus to achieve our ambitions, to get the best A Level grades and reach the best university, we must not forget to enjoy the journey. There is a passage from a book called The Boy, The Mole, The Fox and The Horse which sums this up: ‘One day the Boy and the Horse are in the woods and the Boy says to the Horse, “I can’t see a way through.” The Horse replies, “Well, can you see your next step?” The Boy says, “Yeah,” and so the Horse says, “Then just - take - that.”’ We can look at our goals, at our future, and feel overwhelmed. Instead, sometimes we need not look further than the next step and enjoy the here and now.

Clifton offers so much, and you really do get out what you put in. Take girls’ cricket, which, five years ago, was almost non-existent. Now, we regularly have teams in the National Finals. This is a credit to the group of like-minded girls and the support of Mrs Johnson and Miss Hawkins, whose motivation has genuinely shaped the school for the better. Clifton doesn’t promote a finished product but encourages everyone to develop naturally, nurturing individualism. I sincerely hope that Clifton is able to protect this strength into the future, continuing to allow pupils the freedom to make their own, informed decisions. Clifton is more than a school, it’s who we are: it’s the BSK meals, Saturday morning Congers, free periods in the Percival Library, it’s cricket on the Close, it’s House Plays, House Song, House Dance, CCF on Remembrance Day, the School Musical, it’s the 1st XV playing on the Close. There is no doubt that none of this could happen without the tireless efforts of the staff who spend countless hours giving

us the best support, care, and empathy. On behalf of all the pupils: thank you.

An important source of inspiration has always been my House, which has taught me kindness, acceptance, and celebration of difference. Your Clifton House is a place of sanctuary, for every pupil to feel a sense of belonging and to be part of something bigger than ourselves. All of this I owe to my Housemasters, Mr Williams and Mr Wagstaff, to Miss Ball and to all the South Town staff who run such a well-oiled machine that is the Green Army!

There is the age-old saying that a good friend is one who overlooks your failures and tolerates your successes. A sibling is one who overlooks your successes and rather focuses on your failures! Emily and Sophie: thank you for always being there to offer advice and put me back in my place. There are two more people to whom I owe all of this, who, after 33 terms of Clifton school fees, I’m sure are now quite looking forward to me flying the nest! Mum and Dad: thank you for giving me the opportunity to experience this amazing school, supporting me through every moment of doubt and inspiring the freedom for me to flourish. Thank you for being the fun parents, the understanding parents, the best parents. Finally, to the Upper Sixth: I’m so very grateful to have shared this experience with you. When we leave, we will all lose a piece of ourselves, but this piece will not be lost completely as it is a piece that will remain at Clifton and in Clifton’s history for the rest of our lives and beyond. I will always be proud to be a Cliftonian. Thank you, Clifton. You will always hold a special place in my heart.

Tom Murray (ST)

Heads of School Speeches

I’d like you to cast your mind back to 2020. Covid was at its peak and I, like many of you, was sitting at home, getting ready for yet another day of online school.

On this particular day, my mother found me sitting on the balcony with a cup of tea in one hand and a bar of chocolate in the other, enjoying a new Netflix series and completely ignoring my maths teacher. For some reason, she decided that this may not be the best way for me to learn, and so began my journey to Clifton.

I remember joining Clifton with no idea of what to expect. I had no idea what schooling, people, or even living in the UK would be like. I came over from somewhere that now seems worlds apart. However, Clifton started to feel like home very quickly because, as soon as I got here, I decided to say yes. I said yes to anything and everything that I could, trying to make the most of the wealth and variety of opportunity. I felt that there was a constant busyness in the school and I wanted to be a part of it. For me, this was great. I was a new student and, almost straight away, I felt like I was as much a Cliftonian as anyone else. However, as I was sifting through the millions of emails the average Clifton student receives on a daily basis, I received a call from my mother who sounded slightly annoyed

because she said I had ‘forgotten her’ and I needed to speak to her more. Guiltily, I apologised, and gave her the rundown of all of the weird and wonderful things for which I had signed myself up. Things like the CCF, in which I found myself in the far away fields of BB, sitting underneath a piece of poorly-strung tarpaulin covered in mud. While, in the moment, none of us wanted to be there, all the memories I have with the CCF are happy, though slightly damp.

Clifton has given me so much. Before Clifton, I would have never even dreamt of singing in a Partsong, or directing a play or even dancing to Lady Gaga competitively. Although I am still by no means a singer, I have been able to give it a go and to me that’s one of the things Clifton does best: giving

you a chance to pursue, explore and experiment with whatever your heart desires. One of the best decisions I made during my time at Clifton was to join the rowing club. Rowing is one of those sports that people tend to look at and say, ‘Yeah, I could do that’ and get on with their day. However, after being carried back to House one too many times after a tough rowing session, I can assure you that it isn’t simply splashing around in boats. It has been a privilege to row for Clifton and I would like to thank Mr Beever, Mr Marchesi and all of the supporting team for everything they’ve done for the club. The memories on and off and sometimes in the water will always be cherished.

My time at Clifton has been made so special by the immense amount of diversity in all

“I can assure you that it isn’t simply splashing around in boats.”

aspects of my life here. The EDIB Committee is something of which I am so proud to have been a part, because working with Mrs Maringo and the committee has created an environment in which people from every corner of the Earth can integrate and work side-byside as Cliftonians.

At Clifton, your House means so much, and I couldn’t have been luckier with mine. Wiseman’s is such a special place, not only because of the gorgeous view it has of the school, but because of the people who live in it. I’d like to thank every single person who has made Wiseman’s so special to me, and I’d also like to thank all of the housemasters, assistant housemasters, tutors, matrons, and cleaning staff who keep our Houses running so smoothly. I’d also like to thank the catering staff who at the drop of a hat will dress up BSK for holidays or Bigsides and who have made BSK a place we will all remember.

Lessons here have been full of such great memories and I will cherish them all, particularly the hour-long maths lessons before lunch known as ‘Happy Hour with Clive.’ Every single one of my teachers has been amazing and I am so grateful to all of you and would like to thank all the teaching staff across the College

for everything they have done for us. I’d like to give a huge thank you to my parents and grandparents who have given me an opportunity I couldn’t have even dreamt of. I will never forget Clifton and I have been so lucky to have been a part of it. I have made some invaluable friendships here and my time at Clifton would not have been the same without you all, so thank you for making Clifton so special to me. To the Praeps: thank you for putting up with my passion for spreadsheets and for giving up what must have been the largest snowball fight the Close has ever seen. It has been a pleasure working with all of you. I’d also like to thank someone who has helped me more than anyone else throughout my time at Clifton: Sveva, you have become my best friend. We have been through so much together and I am immensely grateful for everything you have done for me; you have quite literally been a shoulder to cry on. As our time here comes to an end, I can’t help but look back and smile. We have all been through so much together. Winnie the Pooh once said, “How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” Thank you all so very much for making that something Clifton.

Philip Clark (WiH)

Heads of School Speeches

Well, how on earth did I end up here?

Head of School is a title that bears heavy weight and also comes with titles such as ‘the Reign of Monique’ (Thank you, Mr Dunning). Perhaps I should start from when I first arrived at Clifton.

‘I wonder if I will fit in or make any friends? Will there be anyone like me there?’ were my first thoughts as I arrived at Oakeley’s House. I imagined coming back to the UK, which I left as a child, straight into a boarding school as a teenager in Sixth Form, was going to be an experience full of challenges. You see, although my parents had said, in their experience, that going to boarding school in Cameroon was seen as a privilege, the stories they told painted a scary picture and going to boarding school was a threat when we misbehaved. So, as you can imagine, they were surprised with my decision to board. How wise was this choice?

Initially, at Oakeley’s House, the experiences of having someone stomping above my room when I went to bed or there never being a washing machine free were annoying and overwhelming. However, I am forever grateful to have been part of a House full of exciting and unique personalities with different ethnic and cultural backgrounds. So, in my experience, Oakeley’s House is always full of noise: sometimes joyful, sometimes exciting and sometimes painful. It has been my home away from home with 57 sisters and four mothers, under the lovingly nosy, watchful eyes of the formidable Mrs Walsh with her second-in-command, the caring, plant-loving Miss

Hawkins. It’s the best second family I could’ve asked for.

With my Cameroonian heritage, I am used to being with multiple relations at our community gatherings for long weekends throughout the year. A perk is that afterwards I don’t see them again for another six months. With Oakeley’s, I have only three months to breathe from the chaos that unfolds. But I wouldn’t have changed a thing. I have only been boarding for two years, but it feels like I have been here for years and years, thanks to the community created as soon as I arrived at the House. Mrs Walsh and Miss Hawkins have had a lifelong

impact on me; they are amazing women who fight for Oakeley’s and for us. There are loads of memorable moments I could recount. Once, I set the fire alarm off whilst straightening my hair. As the whole House was evacuating, a worried Mrs Walsh burst into my dorm, just to see me apologetically holding a hair straightener and saying sorry to everyone who had already left the building. I’m not sure she had ever seen so much smoke come out of a person’s hair. The matrons in a House are the glue that binds the students and the HoMs. Mrs Smith, Mrs Grewcock and Mrs Bevens, you will always have a special place in my heart. I can’t forget to mention the

cleaners who come in early to clean up the mess we make every day. I am so thankful to have been a part of the best House, the amazingly average Oakeley’s.

Outside of the House, I have been lucky to be a part of the drama and music side of Clifton College. Before Clifton, I had never properly tested my singing ability. I used to sing alto at most and never had any lessons, but Mr Robson has pushed me to be a better singer. My first impression of Mr Robson was when he stood in the middle of the Chapel and asked people to sing for him. If they could hold some sort of note, his response was usually, ‘Come to choir.’ The Music Department has given me many chances that I couldn’t have imagined, like singing three solos in the Joint Choir Concert, involving the Prep School Choir, the Upper School Choir and the adult choir. It was a surreal experience. I also love looking back on some of the trips, like seeing Naturally 7, an all-male, African-American a cappella group. The trip brought such joy to those who went, especially seeing Mr Robson and Mr Moore trying to break out a few moves. As it is also Mr Robson’s last year, I wanted to say thank you so much for being such an inspiration to me and for dealing with all my chaos and energy. I am so thankful to have been able to learn from you as you have taught me a new understanding of music and I apologise for giving you a nickname that everyone now calls you: Robbo.

I have an endless amount of respect for Mrs Orzel and Mr Saunders in the Drama Department. Being able to run a department whose work every single person in this school will

have either seen or been a part of is incredible. This department is not only in charge of lessons from the Prep to the Upper School, but also events such as the House Play Festival. They do it ALL! I know they will dearly miss our drama class, as much as Mr Saunders says he ‘doesn’t have favourites.’ There are so many memories I have from drama due to the sheer amount of opportunities I have been given, like the plays and shows they put on, such as Chicago. Mrs Orzel Goes Through It when every musical starts, and Mr Saunders never seems to breathe when he does the Year 9, 10 and 12 plays in the Summer Term. They run so many drama trips for us too, one of my favourites being the Blood Brothers trip to Cardiff. Even if you aren’t good at drama, Clifton offers many opportunities to thrive, whether it be in lighting and sound or trying out acting in the ensemble.

This journey has not been without its challenges, partly because of my choices and the choices of other people. Despite the joy it gave me, I have learnt that I can’t do everything at once. It’s important to pace yourself, know your limits and be organised with your time. I have learnt that not everyone will like you and the values you stand for, but don’t let that get to you. Don’t let what you look like, your culture or background, or how people choose to view you, define you or change your identity. In being who God made me to be and sticking to my values and beliefs, with the support of others, I have come to this stage in my journey. In the spirit of Ubuntu, as a child of African descent, I believe that it takes a community to raise a child. So I want to thank a few

people: Dr Greene and the Senior Leadership Team for seeing something in me to allow me to be Head of School; it has been a short term, but such an amazing opportunity. Thank you to the Estates team, who have helped us keep the grounds beautiful; to all the Praeps, you have been a team I will never forget; and to all the staff who have helped me this year. Thank you to my Oakeley’s family; I don’t know where I would be without you, especially the Year 10s who give me a headache after every duty, but are the best younger sisters; to my youth and friends for just making me happy and helping to de-stress from school. Finally, I thank God for the family I have been given. My extended family, represented by the Tamehs, thank you for everything; you have done so much. My mum is even more emotional than me, so when I’m crying, her support and belief in me is incredible, and my dad is a silent man, so the love he gives when backing me up is special. To JJ, I can’t

thank you enough for being the brother I can turn to when needing to be cheered up and hugged.

I want to leave you with this quotation: ‘I am a child of the universe, no less than the trees and stars - I have a right to be here!’ For the new prefects, soon to be Praeps: never doubt that you are worthy of your position. For the students who are staying at Clifton: never put yourself down, as you are worth it. To the leavers: never say you don’t deserve to be here when moving on in life.

Monique Konje (OH)

ArtIn September 2022 the Art Scholars took part in the first ever Cross-College Art Scholars’ Workshop.

All the Art Scholars in the Pre and Upper School came together in the Hornby Centre to work with the artist Jasmine Thompson to create two largescale murals on the theme of inclusion. Jasmine is a Bristolbased mural artist, illustrator and designer. Her practice embodies using traditional art methods that tell stories about people and places. Amongst her recent works are murals for Bristol City Museum & Art Gallery, the Royal Shakespeare Company and Pervasive Media Studio. She works regularly as a live sketch artist and visual journalist and represents corporate organisations, designing infographics for reports and books. She is also an

experienced political cartoonist for magazines. It was great to see the Art Scholars of all ages collaborating around two large tables in the art studio, with artists from Year 8 to Sixth Form working side by side in mixed groups.

In September 2022 we took the Sixth Form art and sculpture students on a visit to some London galleries for reference and inspiration. The fine art students spent the morning in the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square, engaging with and sketching works by Old Masters, learning about different genres in art, as well as studying techniques. The sculpture and ceramics students spent the morning in the Victoria and Albert Museum, where they were able to study the collection of ceramic and other threedimensional works. We called into Victoria Tower gardens next to the Houses of Parliament to see Rodin’s famous sculpture, The Burghers of Calais, which commemorates an incident in the Hundred Years’ War. The next stop was the Tate, which has a great collection of old, modern and some challenging contemporary and conceptual British artworks. The OC artists Roger Fry, Peter Lanyon and Henry Tonks are represented in the collection. The trip was a great success and our A Level students benefitted from having exposure to many important examples of traditional, modern and contemporary art relevant to their A-Level studies.

House Art Prizes

Our House Art Adjudication took place on 25th November 2022 and we were privileged to have as our adjudicator the Vice President of the Royal West of England Academy, Dallas Collins. Dallas trained at the Royal College of Art and is a member of the Royal Society of Sculptors. He has taken part in numerous exhibitions around Britain, Japan, the United States and Germany, as well as Dubai and the Venice Biennale.

Every year our adjudicator awards prizes for drawing, painting, ceramics or sculpture and photography to the different year groups. Clifton’s artists can get very competitive during House Art Week and the battle for the prizes was fiercely fought. Dallas had to make some very difficult decisions but in the end he decided to award the prizes to the following pupils:

Third Form Drawing

Stefaniia Safonova (OH)

Third Form Painting

Charlie Moran (HH)

Third Form Ceramics

Molly Denyer (HH)

Fourth Form Drawing

Bernice Lee (WoH)

Fourth Form Painting

Aspen Prole (WT)

Fourth Form Ceramics

Cindy Ge (WoH)

Fifth Form Drawing

Milton Mai (WaH)

Fifth Form Painting

Leia Dzikowski (HLH)

Fifth Form Ceramics

Nico Zhang (WoH)

Lower School Photography

Poppy Janke (WT)

Lower Sixth Drawing

Greer Barnes (WT)

Lower Sixth Painting

Luana Benedict (WT)

Lower Sixth Ceramics

Archie Symonds (MH)

Lower Sixth Photography

Tamara Fischer (WoH)

Upper Sixth Drawing

Emma Guerman Guinzburg (OH)

Upper Sixth Ceramics

Arisa Potiwal (HH)

Upper Sixth Photography

Cassie Moran (HH)

The coveted House Art Trophy is a bronze statuette of the famous OC artist and critic Roger Fry, and it is awarded to the House whose members win the most individual prizes. Congratulations to this year’s winners, Worcester House.

In February 2023 we organised a visit to the museums in Oxford for our Fifth Form pupils as part of their GCSE final examination preparation. We began with the Ashmolean Museum, which is the world’s first university museum dating back to 1678. The collection includes antique sculpture, engravings and fine art, with one of the best collections of Pre-Raphaelite works in the UK. We then walked to the Natural History and Pitt Rivers Museums, housed in a beautiful neo-Gothic building, the design of which was influenced by the writings of the Victorian art critic John Ruskin. The students thoroughly enjoyed their day and left feeling inspired and enriched by what they had seen.

This year’s Commem exhibition included drawings, oil paintings, watercolours, acrylics, etchings, pastels, ceramics, sculptures and traditional and digital photography in all genres, including narrative portraiture, genre, landscape, still life and abstract. As always, we enjoyed presenting our students’ work in the art studios and our visitors complimented us on the standard of their draughtsmanship, composition, creativity and making skills.

The David Cooksey Memorial Drawing Award is a prestigious prize that was inaugurated in memory of David Cooksey OC (WaH, 1983). David was passionate about drawing and his brother Peter generously donated a high-quality trophy to be awarded at the end of year prize-giving assembly every June. The recipients are always in the Lower Sixth or below, as the Upper Sixth receive their prizes at Commem in May. The inscription on the cup quotes Henri Matisse: ‘creativity takes courage,’ elegant and apt. The Art Department is always delighted to recognise a specific skill in this way. Congratulations to Luana Benedict, this year’s winner.

The academic year drew to a close with the Arts Evening on 29th June. Our Art Scholars worked on paintings accompanied by jazz and rock music in the Crypt. Complete artworks were also on display in the cloisters and the event was much enjoyed by all who attended.

Well done all the students who have contributed during the course of the year, once again demonstrating high levels of commitment and artistic talent.

Allan Wilkie

Head

of Art

Art showcase 2022/2023

Art showcase 2022/2023

Music

Michaelmas Term

The last night of the first half of term saw the Chapel packed for an amazing House Song competition – congratulations to West Town, winners of the Partsong competition, and to Wiseman’s, who were victorious in the Unison! The Partsong competition showcased some fine close-harmony singing, as well as some great entertainment (think wigs, crazy costumes, even falling leaves and snow!). All the performers were supported by a friendly and receptive audience, especially those who perhaps had a little less experience of singing in a group! As adjudicator Mr Alex Tester (Director of Music at St Edward’s School, Oxford) said,

‘Partsong singing is hard – but everyone did a great job.’ Even the staff put on a fun rendition of Blame it on the Boogie! But it was West Town’s soulful and very musical performance of a Pitch Perfect arrangement of George Michael’s Freedom ’90 that ultimately won the day.

The Unison competition was fiercely competitive as always, and Mr Tester commended The South Town for their House spirit and diction in Lay All Your Love on Me (ABBA), Hallward’s House for their wonderful sense of ensemble in I Ain’t Worried (One Republic), and Moberly’s for their well-drilled performance of The Greatest Show from the hit musical film The Greatest Showman. But the

“Almost as enjoyable as the songs themselves were the sing-along numbers in between performances.”

winners were Wiseman’s with their performance of Bruno Mars’s Grenade. They were most impressively precise in their performance, with just the right amount of choreography to go with a real sense of development produced through their use of dynamic contrasts. Almost as enjoyable as the songs themselves were the sing-along numbers in between performances. Overall, it was a really positive and enjoyable night for everyone involved.

The Autumn Concert opened with the Concert band fronted by Ella Robson on solo oboe, with a fiery and colourful version of Piazzolla’s classic Libertango, Cello Ensemble later continuing the Latin American theme with

Hoy Mondongo complete with glissando and behind the bridge techniques. Sax Ensemble and Guitar Ensemble gave us new takes on two folk tunes, Clarinet Group a new version of Gershwin’s Piano Prelude I, and the 10-piece Brass Ensemble entertained us with a humorous portrayal of the musical cat Mr Jums. Sublime classical items came courtesy of the Flute Ensemble in Bizet, and the Wind Quintet in a charming Danzi Allegretto, and the OboeViolin-Viola-Cello Quartet in the Adagio and Rondo of Mozart’s masterpiece K.370. The orchestra concluded the evening with the large festive tone poem Capriccio Espagnol by Rimsky-Korsakov, featuring virtuosic clarinet, flute and violin cadenzas in the midst

of a vivid sequence of Spanish dances, ending with a whirling Fandango complete with castanets!

Hot on the heels of the Advent and Carol Services, and to round off a wonderful term of music, the Chapel was filled to capacity on the last evening in December for the muchanticipated Christmas Concert. The opening item Sleigh Ride to Qatar mixed the classic Leroy Anderson festive tune with football themes to mark the unusual coincidence of the holiday season with the World Cup. The orchestra also played Carol and Christmas Dance in new arrangements to mark the 150th anniversary of the birth of composer Vaughan Williams

(1872-1958). Strings gave a version of Holly and Ivy with jazz clarinet and flute soloists. Vocal items came courtesy of the Sixth-Form a cappella quartet in a pupil-arranged version of Chestnuts Roasting, and a solo baritone rendition of Three Kings from Persian Lands from Year 13 Music Scholar Tom Crook-Taylor, who is to be congratulated also for receiving a scholarship from the Royal College of Music to enter as a vocalist on their BMus programme. Two congregational carols kept the audience on their toes, and the whole evening came to a glitzy climax with the two Soul Bands (strings, horns, rhythm sections and vocal soloists) performing festive numbers by Ariana Grande and Christina Aguilera.

Lent Term

A real highlight of the term was the Joint Choirs Concert, which saw wonderful music performed by the choirs of the Prep and Upper Schools, together with an orchestra of students and staff. We were treated to two sets of songs, the first being Ralph Vaughan Williams’ (Five Mystical Songs), sung by Tom Crook-Taylor. The songs have religious themes but are an amazing evocation of 20th Century English landscapes and have a magical quality, which dazzled the audience. The final song of the set, Let All the World in Every Corner Sing, was gloriously upbeat and featured all the singers in full voice, which really filled the space with sound. There was then a change of mood for John Rutter’s Feel the Spirit, a collection of seven songs based on traditional gospel tunes, such as Oh When the Saints and Steal Away. These were great fun, and featured two sensational female vocalists – Ruby Mardall and Monique

Konje, who in their different ways brought amazing tone and communication to everything they sang.

The Joseph Cooper Concert fell on 8th March 2023, and as well as benefitting from unexpected snowfall, also celebrated International Women’s Day. Female conductors, composers, arrangers and commissioners played an equal role in the proceedings, with a 48%-52% gender split between performers from boys’ and girls’ Houses.

Concert Band, conducted by Miss Temple, opened with the Main Title Theme from The Simpsons, followed by a toetapping medley of Dave Brubeck themes. An arrangement of the finale from Schubert’s String Quartet No.6., commissioned by Clifton’s oboe teacher Imogen Triner, was brought to life by the Oboe Quartet. Arrangements by bassoonist Lisa Portus of Gershwin and Schumann were delivered with panache by the Clarinet Ensemble. Meanwhile, a

new arrangement of pioneering composer Cécile Chaminade’s Marche, performed by the Orchestra, closed the concert, alongside the rousing Finale from Dvorak’s Symphony No.9.

Together with items from the Flute, Brass and Sax Ensembles, and Jazz Workshop in Herbie Hancock, another highlight was the entirely pupil-directed performance of the Prelude, Sarabande and Gavotte from Grieg’s concerto-grosso inspired Holberg Suite.

The last night of term saw the annual Choral Congers event, a fantastic hour or so of singing in the Chapel with the entire school taking part in this ‘let-your-hairdown’ evening of relaxed fun! Song choices included tracks by Harry Styles, Amy Winehouse, The Beatles, Journey and many others – and the show was brilliantly held together by the Soul Band, who filled the space with a fantastic sound.

Summer Term

The Kadoorie Cup, the annual competition for soloists, was spread across two brilliant evenings, with the first event for the junior age group won by fantastic cellist Hannah May who played Bruch’s magical Kol Nidrei, and singer Alice Woodall who gave us an emotional On My Own from Les Misérables. In the senior round, Cici Pan (clarinet) dazzled with Weber’s Concertino in E-flat, while the vocal section was so competitive that adjudicator Samir Savant (CEO of St George’s Concert Hall) awarded it to both Tom CrookTaylor and Monique Konje for their stunning efforts. Well done to all who took part!

The last Thursday night of term saw a glorious summer evening in College, and as part of the Arts Evening we enjoyed a superb Summer Serenade concert with the Bristol Ensemble professional orchestra and some of our top instrumental soloists: Ella Robson, Sam Williams, Solly Pitt, Sophie Chung, Joe Ancell, Tom Crook-Taylor, Jude Young and Henry Gittings. Repertoire ranged from concertos by SaintSaëns and Shostakovich to a new composition by Sol himself, for piano and orchestra! This was an evening of the highest quality music, with the standard of our finest players a pleasure to behold.

The year concluded with a splendid tour of choir and orchestra to Italy, visiting Venice, Verona and Lake Garda. Pupils enjoyed a combination of cultural excursions (maskmaking, churches and boat trips), fine food, and concertgiving at the historic venues of Villa Widmann and Villa Grimani. Residing and rehearsing at an historic Augustian monastery, the group’s musical programme included choral, orchestral, chamber music items, duos and solos – ranging from Mozart and Shostakovich to Cynthia Erivo.

Well done to everyone involved in music in another busy year!

Dan Robson Director of Music

Drama

Chicago Teen

The glitz and glamour of 1920s Chicago filled the Redgrave Theatre in November 2023. Chicago Teen follows Roxie Hart through the American justice system after she murders her boyfriend, Fred Casely, and tries to get her husband to take the blame. In prison, she meets Velma, a fellow murderess who is using the media coverage of her own crime to launch a career in showbiz. Roxie and Velma join forces in the pursuit of fame, fortune and acquittal.

With nearly 50 students in the cast and another 15 in the band, technical and backstage crew, this was a large-scale production with students from every year group represented.

We showcased the band by placing them upstage centre, with our Director of Music, Dan Robson, conducting on stage. The majority of the lead roles were double cast: with standout performances from Florence Prole and Monique Konje playing Velma; Jemima Smith and Anika Tildesley playing Roxie; and Thomas Crook-Taylor playing the suave Billy Flynn.

Some of the audiences’ favourite moments were the opening, with the jazz club style dance to the overture, leading into All That Jazz, the Cell Block Tango, performed with three sets of jail bars by the merry murderesses, and the courtroom scene. This scene was both hilarious and ridiculous in its portrayal of how Billy and Roxie retell their

version of how the murder happened. Other favourites were Both Reached for the Gun, in which Billy uses Roxie as a ventriloquist dummy, singing the words (which she mimes) as the reporters gather around, hanging on his every word, and Mister Cellophane, sung by Amos (played by Justin Ching and Solly Scott), who evoked sympathy from the audience every night.

The cast were incredibly talented and worked so hard to put this production together in just over six weeks of rehearsal, and I am really proud of the slick, professional performances they achieved.

Rhian Orzel Head of Drama

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Some midsummer magic struck the Redgrave for our May production, with a quirky interpretation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, performed in the round. The stage was stripped back to the walls, entrances were through a shed and summer house, live turf covered the thrust stage, and fairy lights were sprinkled across the ceiling. Set in the 1940s, the mechanicals were wrens/factory workers in boiler suits, and the lovers were in suits and tea dresses. The more magical elements were clearly delineated, with Oberon (Ethan Thompson) and Titania (Becca Hills) dressed in gothic/steampunkstyle costumes, and Puck, played by four students from Years 9 and 10 (Frida Kelly, Poppy Stevenson, Lauren Braddick and El Bogacheva) adding to the spellbinding feel of the evening. Our starcrossed and bewitched lovers (played by Florence Fraser-Hawkins, Lucy Greene, Ben Halden and Danny Boyle) added to the screwball comedy of the evening with their fast-paced arguments descending into violence at times.

The audience really got into the swing of the evening and even found themselves part of the action, with actors joining them at bistro tables and picnic benches to watch the hilarious play within a play from the mechanicals at Theseus (Solly Scott) and Hippolyta’s (Margot Bird) wedding feast! A fun-filled summer soirée full of belly laughs and magic.

Rhian Orzel Head of Drama

Arts Evening

A sun-soaked June evening saw the whole school come out to celebrate the arts at Clifton. The festival-style atmosphere was buzzing as students and parents enjoyed the street food and range of music, drama and dance performances. On Stage One there were stand out performances of monologues by Eli Jacobs and Angel Tolchard, whilst on Stage Two there were extracts from Noughts and Crosses and a range of chair duets inspired by Frantic Assembly by the Year 10 drama students. The Year 12 drama students also performed their Brechtian-style exam piece based on a reinterpretation of A Doll’s House. DT and art exhibitions and the glorious Summer Serenade (see p.23 for details) showed the high level of talent and skill within our student body, and the evening finished with an hour of jazz in the packed Crypt. It was an amazing evening, showcasing Clifton’s appreciation of the arts.

House Dance

The House Dance competition saw nine Houses compete on the dance floor in our marquee, supported by the whole student and parent community, who made for an enthusiastic and energetic audience! A real range of tracks were selected: Moberly’s danced to Shakira’s Waka Waka in a sports-themed performance, with football kits and prop footballs (and a rather impressive image of cycling across a finishing line!); The South Town’s Year 9s performed a suit-clad version of Beyoncé’s Single Ladies, thriving on exploiting the iconic movements; and several of the girls’ Houses choreographed ambitious material, including flips, cartwheels and the worm, to a mash-up of tracks. Hosted by dance teacher Kimberley Lippe, our judge was professional dancer Ayesha Fazal, who praised the energy and support of the audience, along with the creative choreography and performance skills of all of the dancers involved.

“It was an amazing evening, showcasing Clifton’s appreciation of the arts.”

In third place was Hallward’s, who performed to a mash-up of Rihanna tracks, finishing with the iconic Umbrella, complete with prop umbrellas. In second place was Oakeley’s, performing a mash-up of Lady Gaga and Afro-beats tracks, with flips and tight choreography. The well-deserved winners, who received deafening applause, were Watson’s, performing an

energetic, dynamic, ambitious and tightly-synchronised dance to BTS’s Fake Love, which really bowled the judge over. It was an amazing evening, an excellent way to celebrate dance and performance, which was supported by the whole school community.

Rhian Orzel Head of Drama

House Play Festival 2023

Worcester House: Café Murder

The story of a family feast, which quickly turned to aquatic homicide. Or did it? We were invited to come along for the ride, with warring siblings and lots of sisterly attitude from the cast of this fizzy, frothy farce. There was fine support from the café’s staff, who may have been just as guilty of the heinous crime. This well balanced cast from across a number of year groups worked well to keep the story moving forward. There was good use of technical elements with intelligent choices made for sound and lighting to add even more horror to proceedings, not to mention the blood-curdling screams, which shook the walls of the Redgrave Theatre. Well done Worcester for whetting our appetites with a tasty morsel of a play to start the festival!

Moberly’s House: Mrs Doubtfire

A 1993 classic, Mrs Doubtfire, the story of a father going to extreme lengths to see his children, was revived and adapted for the stage in admirable fashion by Moberly’s House. Students from all year groups made up a solid cast, all of whom worked well together to ensure that the audience kept up with what was originally a two-hour film squeezed into just 29 minutes. Costumes were well chosen and props were used to good effect, with a particular highlight being the Freddie Mercury-esque vacuum cleaner scene. Plenty of laughs were had and the audience left the theatre feeling pleasantly entertained.

Oakeley’s

House: Shakers Re-stirred

The Redgrave was transformed into a trendy cocktail bar and Italian restaurant for Shakers, a play centred on the lives of four waitresses. The audience gradually learnt about the dramas in the lives of these characters through the conversations heard while they worked, and through some emotional monologues. The four actors also convincingly switched to being the customers of the bar; with the addition of just a coat or hat and some strong characterisation, we were given lads out on the town, the landed gentry, and a very pompous diner or two. Snappy dialogue, powerful physical acting and well paced poetry made for some great drama. And as well as all of that, they even managed to take a few orders from the audience - who never claimed their bowl of seafood pasta?!

The South Town: A Cut Above The Rest

The South Town treated us to a crime caper which seemed, at first, to have transported us to the land Down Under. The action took place at the funeral service of a well-to-do OAP who was in possession of diamonds that every criminal worth their salt wanted to get their grubby paws on. All of the cast worked well together, with big, bold accents and vocal choices delivering clever wordplay with good clarity from the chorus of conniving characters. The single room setting was well used throughout and allowed the actors to mingle, giving the audience brief glimpses of the shifty schemes afoot. Costumes were chosen with sensitivity and maturity and suited the characters, adding depth and not distracting the audience. Never before have so many cupcakes been consumed in the name of crime.

Hallward’s House: Too Many Daughters

This was a marvellously proper period production in which the Ashworth family desperately tried to marry off some of their vast number of daughters. When one of the girls declared, ‘I refuse to marry a man I don’t love,’ Mum helpfully responded, ‘But he’s rich!’ followed by the unforgettable cry of, ‘Quick, show some ankle.’ Fortunately, all ankles remained appropriately covered, the evil Dowager Countess met an unfortunate end, thanks to an incident involving a horse (seemingly one of the gravest threats to life in the late 18th Century), and somehow we ended with a happy double wedding. This was a fast-paced and highly enjoyable show with a large number of characterful performances from students in all year groups. There was great hair and costumes, and slick production values - and the performance was very much appreciated by the audience.

“This was a fast-paced and highly enjoyable show with a large number of characterful performances from students in all year groups.”

Holland’s House: Eclipse

An ambitious adaptation of Eclipse, written by current Poet Laureate Simon Armitage and based on events surrounding a total eclipse of the sun and the disappearance of a mysterious girl. We were immediately thrown into the mystery, with the characters preparing to be interviewed by the police. Simple changes of staging were used to good effect to show the change between flashback scenes and the present day. The dialogue, which was likely tricky to manage due to its rhyming nature, was clearly well rehearsed. The young cast worked well together to portray the more chaotic elements of the play and the audience was left asking, what really happened to Lucy Lime?!

North Town: Fawlty Town

It is no mean feat to write your own play, let alone transfer that vision to the stage, but that is exactly what North Town did this year. The writers chose to draw inspiration from close to home, reenacting the (hopefully not too accurate) North Town preparations for House Song. Tech was used to good effect throughout the play, with pre-recorded audio and solid lighting choices adding an extra dimension to the performance. The cast were committed to their roles, with valiant efforts at certain accents. A special mention must also be given to Halbie Wagstaff who played a very convincing Yanto. Whilst there were moments when the judges were genuinely concerned for the safety of some of the cast, the play was a success.

Wiseman’s House:

Two

Wiseman’s took on the emotionally and linguistically demanding drama Two with great confidence and camaraderie, ably meeting the challenge head on. Set in the confines of the bar of a pub, the fast-paced dialogue and well balanced pairings of each set of actors quickly drew the audience into a world of quiet anger, small cruelties, and vast pain. The increasingly bitter breakdown of the marriage of the pub landlord and landlady, and the awful reason behind it, was captivating. These heavy and heart-rending moments were deftly off-set by wonderful forays into comic relief by colourful supporting characters, whose use of physical comedy and gestures turned the simple act of trying to get a drink from the crowded bar into hilarity. There had clearly been huge amounts of thought and care taken over the tone of the production, which paid dividends; every person’s contribution enabled the play to be a great success.

East Town: Black Adder Goes Forth

Taking on a much-loved classic can be a challenge, but East Town succeeded in treating their audience to a hilarious performance of Blackadder Goes Forth. In the episode concerned, Blackadder has to face the firing squad after shooting (and eating) General Melchett’s only childhood friend - a delicious plump-breasted pigeon called Speckled Jim. The cast of a dozen superbly captured the spirit and character of the original, while putting their own stamp on a few areas. Comedy timing was often spot on and we ended the day on a real high when, in spite of the incompetence of Baldrick and George, Blackadder somehow had the last laugh - as always.

Watson’s House: This is a Test

Have you ever sat in an exam totally unable to answer any of the questions? Have you wondered why you are the only one not to have received the crucial revision notes? Has the teacher told you that the outcome is going to be absolutely critical to your entire future success in life? Well, this was the situation brilliantly presented by Watson’s. Through some committed and

highly entertaining acting, we witnessed student ‘Alan’ go to pieces in a test, with the unhelpful thoughts going round his head - mostly ‘this is a spoon,’ ‘this is a phone,’ ‘this is a dance’ and similar - imaginatively acted out by those around him. Partly true to life and partly totally fantastical, it was extremely well received by everyone in the Redgrave. Could an ice cream have done a better job of the exam paper? Quite possibly. But congratulations to Watson’s on a really enjoyable show.

West Town: Custard and Disinfectant

The penultimate play of the festival saw West Town present a murder mystery set in the most unlikely of places - an old people’s home. When the home’s most troublesome resident is discovered dead with an extravagant blade protruding from his ribcage, the cast, drawn from every year group in the House and cleverly transformed into elderly folk using excellent costumes and make-up, are all presented to the audience as potential suspects. The play was clearly well rehearsed and dedication to the roles even extended to scene changes as our elderly characters would slowly trundle off stage after the lights went down. This was felt to be a good choice of play for the House and was well executed by all involved.

School House: Hansel and Gretel

The final play of the festival fell to this fairy-tale farce. From the moment of the first touching interaction between Johnny and his grandfather, it was clear School House’s take on fairy tales would be imbued with their own distinct brand of humour. As we followed Hansel and Gretel suffering at the hand of the evil stepmother, their foolish father and the witch, danger lay at every turn on the bare theatre stage. Our imaginations were happily supported by the deft costume decisions that saw one actor transform in mere seconds from Bird Number 2, to lollipop, to two lollipops, to Dairy Milk, and

back to Bird Number 2 for a violently-lit death by gluten. Hansel and Gretel were ably assisted by Tinkerbell, who was there to get revenge for being cruelly ghosted (or was she?), and the play ended with a ‘boring peaceful resolution,’ which must have come as a relief to the younger members of the cast who had borne the brunt of the physical stunts and left some members of the judging panel concerned about concussion. School House ably utilised the full range of the cast and crew’s talents, and sent the audience off into the night in great spirits.

Sinéad Lynch, Dan Robson, David Saunders & Charlotte Withey House Play Judges

House Play Winners

Best Preparation Hallward’s House

Best Costume Design

West Town

Technical Achievement School House

Best Staging West Town

Choreography East Town

Stage Presence Peter Yang (WaH)

Best Third Form Performance

Seb Jeffery (ET)

Achievement Award Moberly’s House

The Sarah Clarke Artistic Achievement Award Watson’s House

Rising Star Award Mabel Moloney (OH)

Best Supporting Actor in a Drama

Eli Jacobs (HLH)

Best Actor in a Drama

Felix Willis (WiH)

Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Elsa Wilkie (HH)

Best Actor in a Comedy Bea Willis (OH)

Best Director Stella Pikhulya (HH)

Best Drama Wiseman’s House

Best Comedy East Town

Best Production Oakeley’s House

Library & Literary

The Percival teamed up with the Prep School Library and welcomed Huang the Lion and the amazing University of Bristol Chinese Lion Dance Troupe to celebrate Lunar New Year.

Library & Literary

The Percival Library and the English Department joined forces once again to celebrate all things literary.

Michaelmas Term

The events programme began in style with a visit from acclaimed poet Deanna Rodger on 3rd October as part of our Black History Month celebrations. Deanna is a former UK Poetry Slam Champion who has written and performed poetry for BBC1’s Sports Personality of the Year and Black History Matters for BBC Sport. The theme of Deanna’s talks for Years 9 and 10 was poetry and the environment, echoing the 2022 National Poetry Day topic. The audience were treated to recitals and readings of Deanna’s arresting

poetry, including the brilliant ‘Being British,’ which explores race and national identity. The day finished with an engaging writing workshop on selfportraiture and structured metaphors. We celebrated National Poetry Day on 6th October with a Percival Poetry Party, which featured original and admired writing, including a feminist reflection on Wendy Darling, tender love poems, and AI-generated poetry on nuclear catastrophe. The Third Form also watched and discussed a specially curated selection of poetry featuring Black British poets Maureen Onwunali, Caleb Femi and George the Poet.

The EDIB Committee assembled in the library just before half term for a fantastic student-led talk on Diwali traditions. The group were treated to a Rangoli sand art demo, an in-depth

discussion on the best films to watch during Diwali, and some delicious sweets, including jalebi and barfi. We also learnt about differences between the Sikh and Hindu faiths when it comes to the Festival of Lights. Thank you to Arisa Potiwal and Dhaara Acharya for leading this event.

The term ended with two staples of the library calendar: the Winter Book Fair and the InterHouse Spelling Bee, the former providing an opportunity to stock up on literary treats from local indie bookshop Storysmith, and the latter the chance to be wowed by spectacular spellers. Well done to Elsa Wilkie and Charlie Read who took the top spots in their age categories and secured victory and bee-shaped trophies for Hallward’s House and School House respectively.

Lent Term

Year 9 visited Bath Theatre Royal to watch the critically acclaimed and dramatically turbulent production of Noughts and Crosses, while Sixth Form Literature students cracked fiendish puzzles to escape from a locked room; solved the devilish mystery of The Body in the Suitcase; and faced their darkest fears in the gruesome dungeon of the House of Frankenstein. Year 12 English Language students were fortunate enough to see Michael Rosen headline at the A Level English Language Conference at the EMC in London, where they heard lectures on Forensic Linguistics, The Language of Literature, and Why Bad Language is Good for You.

The Year 10 scholars shadowed the Bristol Teen Book Award, reading and discussing six fantastic books on the 2023 shortlist. This award celebrates diversity in Young Adult literature and culminates in a special awards ceremony attended by schools from across Bristol. The Clifton group put together a brilliant presentation on The Sad Ghost Club by Lize Meddings, the first graphic novel to win the award.

Six brave Year 9 pupils read eloquently and beautifully in front of parents, friends and the Head Master in the annual Public Reading Competition, which this year was a cross-college venture held in collaboration with the Prep School for the first time, and proved a success that will be repeated. Congratulations to Upper School winner Max Millard who took the top spot.

We welcomed three visiting authors to Clifton in the form of Amy Beashel, Anthony McGowan and Benjamin Dean. They delivered powerful, enriching

presentations and workshops on gender inequality, LGBTQ+ representation and the power of storytelling. Ben also chaired the highly acclaimed World Book Day Quiz which saw Oakeley’s House - Lola Barber, Anika So, Freya Thilow and Zuzanna Wisniewska - go head-to-head with the staff team to steal the first student victory since 2018! Three of our Year 10 pupils - Jay Greengrass, Amy Fowler and Louisa Hall - were shortlisted in a competition to become Bristol’s first Youth City Poet. As part of the selection process, they were coached in editing and performance skills by recent City Poets Caleb Parkin and Vanessa Kisuule.

The Percival teamed up with the Prep School Library and welcomed Huang the Lion and the amazing University of Bristol Chinese Lion Dance Troupe to celebrate Lunar New Year. Huang, who treated us to an incredible dance on the Quad, was a real hit with students and staff alike! The brilliant Qiqi You and Rebecca Zhou read Maisy’s Chinese New Year and Winnie and Wilbur at Chinese New Year to some special guests from Year 1.

In The Great Clifton Read Off, Year 9 pupils, along with their teachers, read an astounding 142,135 pages, across 12 genres ranging from sci-fi and graphic novels to classics and historical fiction, in the eagerly-fought battle to become 2023 champions. Well done to top readers Alejandro Orejas Vazquez, Molly Denyer and Cody Yuen, and to Ms Hawkins/Mr Serle’s class who were crowned Read Off class champions.

“They delivered powerful, enriching presentations and workshops on gender inequality, LGBTQ+ representation and the power of storytelling. ”

Summer Term

Year 9 EAL students went on a trip to Oxford, which included a guided walking tour of the city to learn about its history and world-famous university. They also surveyed members of the public to practise their speaking and listening skills.

Four essays were shortlisted for The Stanley Steadman Essay Prize: Anna Boyle’s appreciation of It Only Happens in the Movies by Holly Bourne, Joseph Collins’ essay on Flatland by Edwin Abbott, Katrina Kayes’ ode to Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi, and Anika So’s tribute to The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. The overall winner was Anna Boyle, whose unique writing style and strong journalistic voice really shone through.

Commem saw us turn over A New Leaf, the Percival teaming up with the Geography and DT Departments to produce interactive displays on the theme of sustainability, whilst the English Department showcased the work of creative writers Eli Jacobs, Lizzie Ardrey, Louisa Hall, Jay Greengrass, Amy Fowler and Lyra Coulthard, and the oratory skills of public reading finalists Rafi Nunes, Sam Blakeston and Frida Kelly.

The library and the English Department teamed up to shadow the novels shortlisted for the 2023 Carnegie Medal, the UK’s oldest and most prestigious award in writing for young people. The shadowing scheme culminated in an inter-schools competition judged by guest author and poet Louisa Reid

and attended by five schools from across Bristol. Clifton College won first prize for their wonderfully varied and moving presentation on the tense historical thriller I Must Betray You by Ruta Sepetys. The group used drama, poetry and dance to persuade the judge that their book deserved to win the Carnegie Medal. Congratulations to winners Sophie Murray, Ben Halden, George Bell, Molly Denyer, Aidan Lau, Matthew Sun, Leyla Gulek, Charlie Moran, Emily Denner and Lauren Braddick.

The academic year drew to a close with another chance to hear the work of the Creative Writing Group, with a showcase at the Summer Arts Evening featuring readings of powerful poetry and prose by esteemed writers Tara Madan, Megan Cook, Eli Jacobs and Jay Greengrass.

Emily Hawkins Teacher of English and Leah Shaw Percival Librarian

Classics

The Michaelmas Term marked the inception of the Classics Masterclass programme. Students, teachers, and visiting academics embarked on a captivating journey, unravelling the secrets of the third-century crisis, ancient medicine, formidable women, conspiracies, and the Bronze Age. Year 9 explored ancient Rome at the Corinium Roman Museum, inspiring their curiosity for classical wonders. Year 12 and 13 students set out on a pilgrimage to QEH, immersing themselves in a symphony of enlightening lectures that expanded their understanding of the classical world. Years 10 to

13 embarked on a grand odyssey to Greece, relishing gyros as they ventured through the storied landscapes of sites including Athens, Delphi, and Olympia. Guided by our courageous coach driver, who fearlessly navigated the winding roads, students immersed themselves in the wonders of the ancient world and the captivating tales of mythical legends. Meanwhile, Year 11 to 13 explorers ventured to Oxford, where the Ashmolean Museum unveiled its treasure trove of artefacts. Led by the erudite Professor Matthew Leigh and his wise canine companion, they unearthed the secrets of Oxbridge applications and the captivating world of studying Classics at university.

During Classics Chapel Week, whispers of ancient stories and their timeless lessons echoed through our hearts, fostering wonder and wisdom. Before the impending trials of exams, we celebrated with a pre-exams party, raising glasses of ‘ancient Roman wine’ (Ribena) and engaging in the lively game of ‘Pin the Stab Wound on Caesar.’ As we bid vale to this extraordinary year, the echoes of our odyssey resonate within us. Fuelled by our passion for discovery, we will continue our relentless quest for knowledge and enlightenment, forever inspired by the allure of the ancient world.

Lawrence McNally Teacher of Classics

Academic

Design Technology

Our students have completed some amazing work in Design and Technology at both GCSE and A level this year, pushing the limits again and approaching their designs with blue-sky thinking, meaning that the creativity and innovation on show has been phenomenal. We are so proud of all of our students and the work they have produced.

The DT Workshop and Textiles Studio become the centre of the Department. GCSE Resistant Materials students created lights and clocks, from a bucket full of shrimps, robots, lighthouses, tape decks, biomorphic and industrial designs, and everything in between. A Level Product Design students created survival pods for disaster zones, gaming storage, space-saving multifunctional furniture and

exercise equipment. A Level Fashion and Textiles students created sustainable garments, wall hangings full of love and hope, umbrellas that tell a story, and punk outfits. The Summer Term ended on a high with the UK Rocketry Challenge for the STEM Club. We had the most successful team yet, making it through to the regional final with flying colours and going all the way to Nationals where we came eighth overall. The team worked amazingly, with sponsorship from an OC, and pulled together an awesome research and development plan, meaning that our rocket successfully flew. The team are already looking forward to competing next year and carrying out more test flights to perfect our flight (see p.66 for further details).

Vicki Jackson, Martin Richmond and Samantha Scott Design Technology Department

Economics & Business

Michaelmas Term was an enriching period for our Year 12 BTEC Business students as they embarked on a visit to Thatchers in Somerset, a renowned business celebrated for its success. The students were granted a comprehensive tour of the orchards and production facilities, along with engaging presentations from operations managers and the marketing team. This invaluable experience shed light on the business’ scope, size, organisational structure, and the intricate interplay with its stakeholders. During the same term, our students also had the opportunity to explore the remarkable features of Gympanzees, a charitable organisation dedicated to promoting fun and fitness among disabled children in Bristol and the surrounding area. This research allowed our students to gain insights into the admirable work carried out by Gympanzees.

Michaelmas Term witnessed the active participation of 29 Sixth Form students, who formed five teams to compete in the esteemed Wharton Global Investment Competition. This competition attracted a staggering 1,370 teams from over 50 countries. Throughout the term, our dedicated teams diligently researched the optimal investment strategies to fulfil a client brief with a simulated $100,000 portfolio. They submitted two comprehensive reports justifying their portfolio decisions to the Wharton Business School at the University of Pennsylvania. Although our teams did not advance to the global finals in Philadelphia, they emerged from the experience as significantly more knowledgeable investors.

In the Lent Term, our Year 13 BTEC students delved into the subject of customer service by undertaking comprehensive investigations across various organisations. Notably, they had the privilege of visiting the Everyman Cinema, where they gained first-hand insights into their exceptional customer service practices. Additionally, a director from Shine, a prominent local business offering diverse childcare provisions and children’s clubs, provided an educational visit, further expanding our students’ understanding of customer service dynamics.

With the arrival of the Summer Term, the exam season approached, and our Year 13 A Level Business students eagerly attended a Tutor2U grade booster day. Throughout this intensive day, expert presenters meticulously designed and delivered engaging learning experiences. Alongside enjoyable activities designed to assess knowledge and comprehension, students received invaluable guidance on crafting winning paragraphs and the significance of contextualised answers. This exhilarating and confidenceboosting event proved to be a worthwhile experience for all students as they prepared for their final A Level examinations.

Throughout the year, the pupilled Economics Society played a prominent role in fostering a vibrant intellectual community. The society organised a series of captivating guest speaker events featuring distinguished individuals from the realms of academia and finance (see p.69 for details). This academic year has been marked by a series of immersive and educational experiences that have broadened our students’ horizons and enhanced their knowledge and skills across various business and economic domains.

Eleanor Jenkins and Graham Mallard Economics & Business Department

“This dynamic challenge involved collaborating with inspiring business volunteers to develop a comprehensive marketing strategy for a fledgling business.”

Enterprise Programme

During the Michaelmas Term, Year 11 enterprise students kicked off their entrepreneurial journey by participating in Young Enterprise’s Launchpad. This dynamic challenge involved collaborating with inspiring business volunteers to develop a comprehensive marketing strategy for a fledgling business. Students demonstrated their skills in budget management and brand identity creation. As part of their entrepreneurial experience, these students also visited Thatchers in Somerset, where they gained valuable insights into cider production and had the opportunity to present their own business ideas to Thatchers’ marketing team. The students received expert feedback, particularly on how to deliver an effective elevator pitch. Concurrently, Year 12 and 13 enterprise students achieved notable success by securing kickstarter funding for their business start-ups through the esteemed Peter Jones Foundation’s Tycoon Enterprise competition. The term concluded with students showcasing and selling their products at the Preparatory School’s Christmas Fair, with the profits being donated to charity.

In the Lent Term, Year 11 students enthusiastically participated in the Young Enterprise’s 10X Challenge, a national competition with over 19,000 participants. Impressively, three Clifton teams reached the finals for the ‘Best Sales Pitch’ category. Congratulations are due to Rosie Marson, Lotta Halm, Michelle Arora, Frankie de Bradeny, Aimee Miles, Zoe Milligan and Isabel Przemioslo, founders of Goats Totes, who successfully marketed sustainable tote bags; to Damian Gruebner, Alberto Della Libera and Adam Colebourne of team Colour

Star, creators of AI-generated colouring books; and to Lea Fischer, Sonia Lam, Nicole Li, Greta Zaleski, Laura Kirschner and Marie Claire Niggemann of team Paper Pals, who designed and crafted jewellery and cards from recycled paper. Furthermore, Colour Star also made it to the finals for ‘Best Overall Business’, while Paper Pals emerged as overall winners in the ‘Best in Sustainability’ category. Additionally, Lea Fischer from Paper Pals was recognised as the ‘Most Inspirational Individual’.

In the Summer Term, the new year’s enterprise programme was launched with an engaging field trip for Year 10 students to Legoland in Windsor. The visit provided an opportunity for students to explore Legoland’s marketing mix while enjoying the various attractions at the park. The day proved to be both educational and enjoyable for all.

Eleanor Jenkins Head of Business and Enterprise Lead

Geography Trip to Iceland

During Michalemas half term 2022, 30 Sixth Form students and three staff set off from Heathrow to Iceland, our first overseas Geography trip since the Covid lockdowns. On arrival at Reykjavik, we headed straight out to the Reykjanes Peninsula to take in the sights of the fumaroles, mud pools and the Bridge Between Continents. It was a great way to introduce the students to the geology of Iceland, with fossilised basaltic lava flows in every direction. Our first night was on the waterfront in Reykjavik, and after a team burger, we caught a glimpse of the Northern Lights before bed.

Day two saw us head out to Hella, where the staff purchased some rúgbrauð (hot spring bread), which is baked underground, whilst the students bought all sorts of buns and snacks for the journey. We took in the stunning views of the countryside and then hiked into Gljúfrabúi (a waterfall hidden in a cave) before walking the kilometre to Seljalandsfoss, one of Iceland’s big waterfall attractions. The highlight of the day was a glacial guided walk on the Sólheimajökull glacier, an outlet of Mýrdalsjökull, the fourth largest glacier of Iceland. Once kitted out with crampons, ice picks and helmets, we walked for around two hours, taking in breathtaking views of the ice formations, moulins and temporary ice caves. Finally, we drove to Reynisfjara’s Black Sand Beach, with its stunning basaltic columns protruding out from the cliffs. Before embarkation, a stern safety brief outlined the dangerous nature of the location’s ‘sneaker’ waves! We retreated to Hótel Búrfell, located in the beautiful countryside around Vik, which gave us glimpses of the Northern Lights once again, although the cloud cover was heavy.

The next day was taken up with our boat trip to the Westman Islands. It was a full day: the Stave church; walking over

the lava flows of the Heimaey eruption and climbing the volcano’s cone; visiting the windiest place in Europe; strolling around the preserved homes (covered by ash in the 1973 eruption) at the Eldheimar museum; and splashing in the hot tubs and sauna of the island’s leisure centre. There were some very tired people on the return ferry back to the mainland!

The penultimate day began at the Lava Centre, a modern interactive exhibition. We then set off on the classic Golden Circle tour: the mighty Gullfoss waterfall; hot springs at Geysir; and the historic parliament at Thingvellir. The day finished at the Blue Lagoon, a very touristy spa complex using waste water from a geothermal power station.

After a night in Reykjavik, we had a walking tour of the capital, allowing plenty of time for sightseeing, eating and drinking in the many cafés and restaurants and, of course, buying souvenirs! After a few issues with selfservice check-in at the airport (perhaps not designed for 33 people), we were soon on the flight home, then a familiar Turner’s coach and a late night pick up on Guthrie Road. Some of the group have already rebooked for the 2024 Iceland trip!

Jon Hughes Head of Geography

Computer Science

This year saw a range of students from all year groups taking part in a number of competitions. The year started with incredible success as Rob Lane won a highly competitive Arkwright Engineering Scholarship with his software engineering project. In November, the Bebras Challenge saw some excellent scores, highlighting future talent in Year 9; 12 students came in the top 25% nationally, featuring a typically dominant performance from Jonathan Ambler, who got Bristol’s highest score. These 12 students went on to the Oxford

University Computing Challenge in February, with Peter Thyan top-scoring in the school.

New this year, eight Sixth Form students attempted the British Informatics Olympiad in January, which was a learning curve for everyone. Peter Thyan again impressed, earning the top score.

The Lent half term break saw this year’s Clifton Hackathon take place with the theme of ‘Elements’. A range of interpretations were demonstrated in projects featuring alchemical elements

to the element of surprise. The overall winner, voted for by the participants, was Max Robson in Year 10 who saw off opposition from all the higher year groups to take away the coveted trophy.

In the summer, Year 12 Computer Scientists (and some Further Mathematicians) went on our annual trip to The National Museum of Computing and Bletchley Park, allowing students to investigate the history of computing as well as looking at algorithmic efficiency and the importance of prime numbers in computing. A fantastic day was had by all with

a wide range of experiences including Alex Lim “improving” his driving technique on the retro Crazy Taxi arcade game and students particularly intrigued to see how computing changed the course of World War II, with demonstrations of an Enigma machine and the world’s only working replica of Colossus. Students were also struck by the examples of technology through the decades, having the opportunity to have a go on machines dating from as far back as the 1980s.

Joe Lane Head of Computer Science

Maths: A Year in Numbers

The Michaelmas Term started with a bang with success for the Year 12 Further Maths team, who won the Bristol schools competition. We also saw some excellent results in the UKMT events, including four distinctions in both the Maths Olympiad for Girls and the British Mathematical Olympiad. Peter Thyan also went on to earn an impressive merit in the second round of the British Mathematical Olympiad.

The end of the Michaelmas Term saw a thrilling final of the Ritangle Competition for the Year 12 problem-solving group. This competition takes place over two months with over 1000 teams taking part nationally. Stage one takes place over nine weeks, with problems released at regular intervals. Stage two, in the last week of term, included solving eight new problems, alongside using the 20 previous answers to decode a puzzle that unlocked Stage three - a mammoth route optimisation problem that took the team several days and lots of brain and computer power to complete. Clifton’s team worked tirelessly to be the third fastest in the country to submit a correct answer (taking only three days to complete the final problem!).

The 14th of March is an exciting day in the maths calendar due to the date (when written in month-day format) being 3/14: the first three digits of pi. The Maths Department marked this occasion with our annual inter-house Pi Day competition, consisting of three rounds:

a pi-themed problem-solving round; a Pi-Ku round; and a ‘Slice of Pi’ treasure hunt. The PiKu round was new this year, and required pupils to write poems similar to haikus, but with the number of syllables matching the digits of pi. The winning Pi-Ku below was written by Amy Fowler in Year 10:

Can you be Lost

In your own mind?

The overall competition winners were Hallward’s, thanks to their thorough searching for pi slices, enabling them to make pi to 20 decimal places. Pi Day also made for a fitting date for the Maths Inspiration Lectures at the Bristol Hippodrome, which were attended by 50 pupils in Year 10. The lectures included a talk on puzzles by Rob Eastaway, author of Maths on the Back of an Envelope, in addition to a lecture about juggling patterns by Colin Wright.

In May, 48 Year 9 and 10 pupils took part in the second annual Junior Inter-House Maths Competition. The competition consisted of two rounds: the group round, where House teams worked together to solve a set of five challenging maths problems, and the shuttle round, where the teams split into two pairs and solved problems, the solutions of which led to the next problem for the other team to solve. The House teams all demonstrated excellent problem-solving and teamwork skills to help them solve some devilishly difficult problems. In the end, it was North Town who were victorious, thanks to their impressively perfect group round.

Camilla Gold Deputy Head of Mathematics

“The overall competition winners were Hallward’s, thanks to their thorough searching for pi slices, enabling them to make pi to 20 decimal places.”

French

A range of cultural events that have taken place in the French Department this year. On 22nd February, we hosted a French bake-off, ‘Le Meilleur Pâtissier’. Students from Year 11 to 13 baked a range of delicious French desserts from madeleines and palmiers to a beautifully presented fraisier. Each student filled in a scorecard to rate each bake and there was a quiz about French baking at the

end. Finally, Our French Assistant made the final decision that the palmiers tasted the most authentically French so Zoe Mace and Luana Benedict won a Le Meilleur Patissier recipe book to carry on their baking. On 14th March, there was a French film night with a large cohort from Year 7 in attendance to watch the classic French comedy, Bienvenue chez les Ch’tis. We also introduced a fortnightly French speaking café during Monday break times with the French

Assistant, which gives students a chance to practise conversational French and build their confidence. Looking ahead to next academic year, we are excited to get trips back up and running with a four-day trip to Paris for Years 10 to 13.

Lucy Dales

Head of French

German

Here are two of the highlights of the academic year, written by a couple of our talented German linguists:

Berlin Trip

After numerous delays and enough games of airport cards to last a lifetime, we made it to Berlin. From Birmingham to Munich to Berlin and thankfully to a hotel greeting us with open arms, a lifetime supply of bread and cheese, and finally, a bed, our time in Germany had begun. Luckily, we travelled efficiently around Berlin, for the most part, though it wouldn’t truly be a Clifton school trip if we didn’t get comically lost or have to sprint through the streets to catch a long-forgotten train after listening to a few too many facts for us ex-history students. Berlin is a truly complex, inexplicably beautiful city full

of bustling Weinachtsmärkte, intricate architecture and, most importantly, native speakers who were baffled by our grammar. No two people will experience Berlin in the same way and I hope that its alluring mystery will bring Clifton there once more.

Amy Fowler (HLH)

German Oxford Olympiad

On 21st February 2023, a group of Year 10, 11, 12 and 13 German students and native German speakers took part in a German bake-off, this year’s entry into the Oxford Olympiad. Culminating in a unique event uniting Clifton’s German speaking community, weeks of organisation enabled a celebration of Germany’s rich and diverse ‘essenkulture’ (food culture). Throughout the evening we presented our

baked goods to one another and tested our knowledge of German cuisine. The highlight of the evening was the pupil-led judging and tasting, in which we rated each bake out of five on a variety of categories such as flavour, appearance and texture.

Coco Rugg (HLH)

Spanish

In addition to our Spanish Sixth Form cohort taking part in both the annual debate night and poetry evening during the Lent Term, we also managed a quick cultural trip to Clifton High. Here we spent a couple of hours learning about the works of Pedro Almódovar, whose film Volver we study during the A Level course. The lecture, delivered in Spanish by Miguel García from Bristol University, gave us valuable insights into the life of the famous film director and the social context

behind his films. We discussed the common characteristics of his films, the themes he chooses to delve into and the techniques used to film them.

In January 2022 we held a Spanish film night, which was attended by around 30 students across Years 9 to 12. We all gathered in the Languages Café to watch Guillermo del Toro’s El Libro de La Vida (The Book of Life), whilst eating copious amounts of food, of course! It was a very successful night and the film was not only cultural, but surprisingly musical and funny too. Looking ahead to the next academic year, we hope to be able to offer a trip to Spain in the Easter holidays.

Helen Sykes Head of Spanish

MFL Debates

In January 2023 the Clifton MFL Department hosted 47 debate teams from Years 11 to 13 in French, Spanish, German and Chinese. The teams came from state and independent schools across Bristol and the South West. Essentially, these debates are like House debates, but in a foreign language and with the emphasis on the Q&A section or what the French call the ‘lutte acharnée’. The students had a really good time and laughter soon replaced nerves. I heard students from different schools talking in a relaxed way to each other as well as debating energetically against each other! And they are doing this in a foreign language: ‘chapeau bas!’. Much of what the MFL Department aims to achieve is on show at this event: encouraging independence, offering challenge, nurturing resilience, and promoting collaboration and thinking. And, of course, cultural enrichment. We are grateful that the MFL Department has the facilities to host this ever-growing event. My thanks go to willing MFL colleagues who make such a success of running it.

Owen Lewis Head of Modern Languages

Poetry Reading Competition

The Nigel Jones Cup MFL Poetry Reading Competition is an engaging Sixth Form event that invites all students studying a Modern Foreign Language to participate. This competition not only brings together poetry enthusiasts but also provides an invaluable performance opportunity for all those willing to recite a poem of their choice and gain experience in public speaking. While it can be nerveracking, especially if you have limited experience of performing in front of a relatively large audience, it is an undeniably transformative experience that is worth pursuing.

I had the privilege of participating in this competition and recited two poems: one in Mandarin titled 登鹳雀楼 (An Ascent to Stork Hall), and another in Russian that delved into the fascinating world of Greek mythology. I selected the Mandarin poem because of its profound message: the greater the results we aspire to achieve, the harder we must work. As for the Russian poem, my fascination with Greek mythology motivated my choice. I am thrilled that I emerged as the winner in both the language-specific categories as well as the overall winner of the competition. It was an incredibly gratifying experience. If I were to offer advice to prospective

participants, I would suggest carefully selecting a poem that resonates with you personally. Choosing a poem you genuinely enjoy makes the process of memorisation easier and more enjoyable.

Kamilla Igamberdi (WoH)

“This competition not only brings together poetry enthusiasts but also provides an invaluable performance opportunity for all those willing to recite a poem of their choice.”

Photography

This year the photography A Level group visited M Shed in Bristol to view the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition. This prestigious award showcases a diverse range of photography documenting the world around us and the effects of human interaction on wildlife. The resulting photographs are often powerful and striking, documenting the plight and welfare of the world in which we live while providing excellent examples of composition and narrative which the students can apply to their own work. We also went to the Royal West of England Academy where once every four years an ‘open’ exhibition runs in which photographers are invited to submit their work for selection to be included. This encouraged, again, an incredible variety of approaches ranging from documentary street photography to abstract landscape. One of the benefits for the students was that this exhibition also explored the different techniques and methods of production the exhibiting photographers used and there were great examples of digital images, photogravure, liquid emulsion, mixed media and darkroom-based black and white. The size, scale and subject matter of some of the work was inspirational. Alongside this exhibition was landscape-based work by the photographer Jem Southam.

Paul Wigginton Head of Photography

“Their work was highly commended and both groups certainly worked to an undergraduate standard.”

Psychology

This year has seen lots of extracurricular activities in the Psychology Department. In the Michaelmas Term we all walked to St George’s to take part in a psychology conference at which students heard talks on criminology, ‘bad science,’ the psychology of dance, and magic, as well as attending a live hypnosis demonstration! The students all enjoyed learning about the many different applications of psychology.

We also participated in an online seminar from the great Philip Zimbardo, the man who created the Stanford Prison Experiment that took the psychology world by storm in the 1970s. It was really interesting to hear his firsthand account of the experiment and his justifications for creating such an extreme experiment that is still widely studied today.

In the Summer Term, students were invited to enter a Bristol Education Partnership competition held at Badminton

School. The challenge consisted of an independent research task, data collection, analysis and a 3,000 word poster write up. Two teams from Clifton entered and produced some incredibly impressive research on how age and culture influence obedience and the effect of age on the theory of mind development. Their work was highly commended and both groups certainly worked to an undergraduate standard.

Susannah Griffin Head of Psychology

Biology

On 24th February, the Lower Sixth biologists participated in a high-intensity training (HIT) study, investigating its effect on gross motor control. The study was run by two final year students from the University of Bristol Ambassador Scheme. In the physiology research laboratories, pupils collected their baseline heart rate and blood pressure using ECG and blood pressure cuffs, followed by HIT on exercise bikes.

A standing long jump was used to investigate gross motor control. This study was linked to exercise therapy for disease and pre/post-operative exercise reducing risks of morbidity. The session finished with an overview of a life-like mannequin model programmed to demonstrate different physiological processes in the body, which is often used in training vets and medics at the university. Students analysed the effects of atropine, slowing down the heart rate, and also monitored ECG, breathing

rate and oxygen saturation level traces along with pupil constriction. Cataract and jaundice simulations were also observed.

The Biology Department were delighted with the success of Year 12 pupil Paige Cholefko who achieved a silver award in the British Biology Olympiad, especially as this competition is aimed at students in the final year of their A Level course. Sonny Walton, Leilani Zhang and Litao Zheng all achieved bronze awards, with Taiki Faustino, Tom

Murray and Kei Ki Chau obtaining the ‘highly commended’ accolade. The British Biology Challenge award winners in Years 9 and 10 went to Joung Youn Hoang and Fergus Brown (gold); Amy Fowler (silver); and Sam Blakeston, Amelia Lucas and Aspen Prole (bronze).

The Year 12 biologists explored Kenfig Nature Reserve in South Wales on a hot June day. A transect study of the embryo dunes was conducted to monitor the progress of succession using quadrats and calculating

percentage cover of various plant species. Topography of the landscape was also recorded using ranging poles and a clinometer. An industrious approach was evident when collecting data and it was great to see collaborative teamwork skills in action. Leilani Zhang’s group found a lovely grasshopper and enthusiasm was evident in competing for the wild orchid photo competition. The winning photo went to Izzy Bevan, Milly Thomas, Fleur Wagstaff and Clemmie Houlden with Ethan Thompson, Judy Fan, Vasco Palmer and Aidan Boshoff as runners up. Following data collection, pupils and staff enjoyed lunch and a rounders session on the beach. The return journey to the visitor centre also provided the opportunity to investigate dune slacks and anthropogenic factors that can impact succession.

Mal Grohmann Head of Biology

Chemistry

A fantastic turnout for the Olympiad paper saw Sam Williams and Jonathan Ambler achieving outstanding scores and gold certificates. November featured a ‘Chemistry of Bonfire Night’ lecture with the Scientific Society in which students learned about the history and chemistry of fireworks. Students observed a range of exciting demonstrations and made their own sparklers. Summer Term also brought the Aspirin Project for Year 12 in which pupils research the history of the drug and then synthesise their own aspirin samples.

Sammy Palmer Head of Chemistry

Physics

Students had great success competing in the British Physics Olympiad (BPhO) this year. Ten Upper Sixth students participated in the challenging BPhO Round One Challenge. This demanding paper aimed to test the students with difficult problems outside their regular physics studies. Every student who took part was honoured with a well-deserved award, marking a significant accomplishment. Charlie Davies and Sam Williams both attained Gold awards, an outstanding achievement given to the top 15% of participants. Alex Warren received a Silver award, while Shuying Zhang earned a Bronze I award. Additionally, the following students secured Bronze II awards: Philip Clark, Alexander Pang, Annie Shen, Timur Yilmaz, Johnson Zhang, and Rebecca Zhou.

In addition to the Round One Challenge, Lower Sixth students had the exciting opportunity to compete in the BPhO Senior Physics Challenge. This allowed them to apply fundamental principles to novel situations and further develop their problem-solving skills. Joseph Collins and Jude Young achieved the prestigious Gold awards, showcasing their exceptional abilities. Zuzanna Marciniak and Johnson Zhang received Silver awards, while Jack Fowler, Helene Groening, Tanaya Ghosh, Poppy Mumford, Emily Murray, and Bruce Zhang were honoured with Bronze I awards.

Patrick Jones Head of Physics

PSHE

The study of PSHE (personal, social, health and economic education) has experienced a transformation in recent years, not to mention a great deal of media attention following the introduction of the statutory elements to the curriculum in the summer of 2020. There are set to be more changes in the coming months as the government conducts another review. In line with these requirements, here at Clifton we aim to deliver thought-provoking, useful and appropriate lessons which cover a wide range of content whilst also giving students the opportunity to develop a huge range of skills. We hope that these skills and the knowledge acquired will help students to stay healthy, safe and prepare them for life and work in the modern world. All students are

encouraged to express their opinions and feelings, whilst listening to and respecting those around them. Our lessons are varied and engaging, encouraging learning in different ways, sharing views and hearing from others both within the classroom and beyond. Lessons are also supported through one-off PSHE booster mornings each term, which give students a chance to focus on a key area or hot topics. This year we have looked at gender equality, drugs and addiction, and wellbeing. As part of our offering we also welcome speakers from numerous organisations and host talks for parents. This year we have welcomed Dr Dominique Thompson, an IT specialist known as the IT Evangelist, as well a drug and alcohol education specialist from Bristol Drugs Project, to name a few.

Jo Marsden Head of PSHE

“Students observed a range of exciting demonstrations and made their own sparklers.”

Chapel

My first day at Clifton in the middle of October 2022 was rounded off with the Upper School’s House Song.

The life and energy of singing in the Chapel, with its brilliant acoustics, was a wonderful and memorable introduction to Clifton College.

Time and again, students talk about how much they love singing hymns in Chapel three mornings a week and are keen to share their favourite.

There has been plenty of variety this year, with the opportunity to add to the well-loved repertoire. The weekday morning chapel services have been characterised by a variety of formats and content, with the majority written and led by students, with the support of Houses or departments. The thoughtful, engaging, and creative content has been a superb way to begin the day. Some of the topics explored have been procrastination, remembering, mental health, wisdom, adventures, Asian culture, Ramadan and Eid, Hanukkah, Christmas, Easter, LGBTQ+ Pride, the environmental crisis, and many others.

Some of the memorable major services this year have been Remembrance Sunday, Advent carols, Nine lessons and Carols for Christmas, Holocaust Memorial Day, and Commem. The Music Department provided choral music that enriched our worship on these occasions. The Holocaust Memorial Day service was particularly special this year. Rabbi Anna and I jointly led the service, with the help of a number of students who were keen to be involved. The theme was ‘ordinary people’ and it was a very salutary reminder of how ordinary people were caught up in the events of the Holocaust. It was wonderful to include a Jewish song within the service

that the whole school sang, something that was particularly moving for our Jewish students.

What both the weekly services and the starred services have enabled us to do together is reflect on lessons from the past and to look at what the future holds and how each of us has a part to play in shaping it with hope, kindness, and integrity; to make a lasting, positive difference to our world.

Chaplaincy is about supporting the whole person; we are physical, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual beings. It was good to be involved in providing opportunities and activities as

part of Mental Health Awareness Week, working alongside colleagues across the College to support staff and students. Next year it is hoped that this programme can expand and grow as we continue to develop wellbeing for all.

On 1st July 2023, it was a privilege to participate, alongside a Hindu priest, in blessing the ground as part of the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Chellaram Sports Complex. It was also a pleasure to wish our leavers the very best for their future endeavours. As they finish school, and look forward to a multitude of possibilities, I hope that those

possibilities make a difference for good in the wider world. The values, friendships, and teaching that they have experienced will stand them in good stead for the future. Every one of them will inevitably face many decisions in their life ahead and my prayer is that they will be able to discern the course of action that brings life and goodness. May they find the moral courage within them to choose this path.

Revd Mel Parkin College Chaplain

Synagogue

2022 saw some big changes in the Jewish Life Department at Clifton College with Shelley Braude joining the team as the Jewish Life Coordinator.

Shelley is an active member of Bristol’s Park Row Synagogue and passionate about Jewish community and learning. The whole Braude family threw themselves into the Polack Centre community and before long, Shelley, together with her husband and two children, had become the host family for the Polack Centre’s Friday Night Dinners and Jewish festival celebrations.

As ever, the school year began with the flurry of Jewish autumn festivals, celebrated with services in the Polack Centre and also visits to the nearby Park Row Synagogue. A particular highlight was a Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New Year) ritual meal with symbolic foods to bring blessings into the year ahead. Towards the end of Michaelmas Term, we held two very popular Chanukah parties for Prep School and Upper School Jewish pupils and their friends.

In January 2023, the Jewish Life Department was responsible for running a Holocaust Memorial Day service in Chapel for the whole Upper School. With testimony from World War II and other genocides read by pupils, recorded and live music, and talks from the College’s Chaplain, and from me, it was a thought-provoking and memorable service that has set a precedent for including this important commemoration in the Clifton College calendar every year.

Opportunities for Jewish learning at Clifton continue to increase. Shelley runs an Upper School Jewish Learning Club and pupils wishing to prepare for their Bar/Bat Mitzvah can arrange one-to-one lessons. We currently have three pupils preparing for Bar/Bat Mitzvah. Our Modern Hebrew programme

also goes from strength to strength, with Jewish and non-Jewish pupils choosing this unusual language option in Year 7, 8 and 9. In the 2023/4 academic year, our first three pupils will start studying towards GCSE Modern Hebrew.

Over the course of the year, Jewish pupils and staff have partied for Purim, planted trees for Tu Bishvat and eaten cheesecake for Shavuot; but our Friday Night Dinners remain the highlight for all. Taking time each week to pause and to sit around a table as a ‘family,’ we are able to celebrate our heritage and spend time with pupils from across the College. This really is what makes Clifton’s Jewish Life programme special.

Rabbi Anna Gerrard Jewish Chaplain

First Ascensionists in the Italian Alps

In July 2023, a group of six pupils successfully established a ‘First Ascent’ on the Ago di Villaco (2040m) in the Julian Alps in Italy. The route has been named ‘Diedro Clifton College’ and is 145 metres high and six pitches long at grade 6A, topping out at an untouched satellite peak of the main spire.

On 7th July at 00:30 hrs, the pupils met to embark upon a life-changing adventure with the objective of bolting and climbing a first ascent rock route. Once we had arrived and checked into our hotel, there was time to explore the beautiful Italian village of Venzone. That evening

we ate as much Italian food as we could in preparation for the expedition the next morning. We travelled to Val Pesarina and hiked for 90 minutes up to the Fratelli De Gasperi hut (1767m), packed our climbing equipment and headed up to the Cretòn di Culzei mountain to develop our climbing skills and learn to place traditional gear. Later we enjoyed another Italian meal with copious amounts of salami and cheese and had a restful night’s stay. The following day’s aim was for the team to acquire the skills necessary for multipitch climbing and abseiling, as the main objective for the trip would be longer than a single

rope length and, therefore, would have to be broken down into single pitches; students were guided up shorter practice routes in multiple stages to mimic the larger walls they would encounter.

We travelled to Sella Nevea in the Julian Alps and reached the Malga Grantagar hut and artisan cheesemaker. Here, we had our first glimpse of the Ago di Villaco (2040m) needle on which we hoped to establish our ‘first ascent’ route, which was nerve-racking but extremely exciting. We split into four teams and hiked up steep terrain for an hour to the rock face. Two

Outdoor Pursuits

teams, including guides, climbed two of the existing routes on Ago di Villaco: the ‘Spigolo Sud’ and ‘Asia’; whilst the other two teams set to work on climbing new, unexplored rock, drilling and bolting belays as they went. That evening the team excitedly discussed the day’s progress, played cards, and even milked one of the hut’s cows in preparation for breakfast the following day.

A repeat of the previous day’s gruelling trudge up to the base of the spire, the team split again, allowing those who had climbed existing routes to set to work on the project, whilst the other team made their way further into the cirque to climb the 400 metre Spigolo Migliorini, a long-exposed ridge on the Campanile di Villaco. For the team who continued to open the new route, the day

consisted of using their Design Technology skills just as much as their climbing abilities: drilling and hammering in bolts, then climbing each pitch until finally reaching the summit! After lots of abseiling, the team gathered at the bottom where they were met by the rest of the group who had completed their speedy ascent. The whole team felt so proud of their accomplishment in becoming ‘First Ascensionists.’ After a celebratory meal at the hut, they established a name for the route - ‘Diedro Clifton College’ - and drew a climbing topo for future climbers to come and enjoy the route that this team worked so hard to open. This expedition was a once-in-alifetime climbing adventure that we will never forget.

Jody Sumner Outdoor Education Coordinator

Duke of Edinburgh

The Ridgeway, Uffington White Horse and Dragon Hill

During the Easter holidays, the Year 10 Bronze Duke of Edinburgh pupils successfully passed their expedition section, walking the famous Ridgeway over two days. They navigated through the rolling chalk downland and explored the many archaeological treasures, including Neolithic long barrows, Bronze Age round barrows, Iron Age forts and the famous Uffington White Horse cut into the chalk. They also walked to Dragon Hill, which, according to legend, is the site at which Saint George slew the dragon. At the top of the hill they found an Easter chocolate dragon egg, which certainly motivated them all to navigate to the campsite at a good pace.

Mountain Skills in South Wales

During the May half-term break, 14 pupils successfully passed their Mountain Skills course in Bannau Brycheiniog (the newly renamed Brecon Beacons). The course introduced walking skills and techniques required to safely navigate the slopes. They learnt about movement on steep terrain, equipment, weather, environmental impact and how to respond to hazards and what to do in an emergency. On the second day, the pupils had a very early alarm set at 2.45am in order to reach the summit of Pen y Fan (886m), the highest point in South Wales, for sunrise.

The students went on to complete their four-day, threenight Gold Duke of Edinburgh qualifying expedition in the Black Mountains, walking an impressive 84km with 3,595 metres of ascent, summiting peaks including Twmpa (690m), Hay Bluff (677m) and Pen Allt-Mawr (719m). For their endof-expedition presentation, the pupils documented memorable experiences by drawing on a t-shirt each day to create a visual diary. One group even included a 3D printed map of their walking route!

Jody Sumner Outdoor Education Coordinator

“They also walked to Dragon Hill, which, according to legend, is the site at which Saint George slew the dragon.”

The CCF is embedded in Clifton’s calendar.

Highlights this year included Remembrance Sunday, the Leadership Weekend for the Year 11 Leadership Cadre at Dyffryn Crawnon Old School House, the Inspection Day and Leavers’ Parade, the regimental dinner for the Upper Sixth and staff, and the Commem Gun Run (won by the Army Section). As always, I would like to thank all the CCF staff for all the time and commitment over this year. Your hard work and enthusiasm ensures all the Cadets under your charge are getting the full CCF experience as you continually come up with ideas to make the syllabus entertaining and fun.

WO2 (SSI) Mitchell

CCF Navy

It has been a relief to be back to full CCF training with an uninterrupted year. The Navy section has again set out to offer new and exciting experiences for the Cadets whilst encouraging them to develop personal skills of leadership and the confidence to work with others. The new recruits this year were plentiful; 32 began the year and set about learning some of the traditions and history of the Royal Navy. Ironing uniform and bulling boots were clearly activities that some never really understood or got to grips with, but the positive engagement of all the Cadets was fully appreciated. Evie Calhaem led from the front as Senior Cadet and with her supportive and knowledgeable team the NCOs set a great example for the younger Cadets.

No sooner had we started the year than we were planning for our first Field Day. The new recruits completed a programme of training here in Bristol, on the Docks and the river Avon, working to complete their PB1 award. The Fifth Form Cadets spent two days at HMS Raleigh in Torpoint aboard a variety

of powered craft. This really gave them the experience of life aboard a naval base whilst also seeing some of the British fleet up close as they passed Devonport Dockyard. On occasion they got too close and the police launches kindly had to remind them to keep their distance!

New to training this year has been the ability to offer sail training on a Monday afternoon. Thanks go to Mr Rosser, the school sailing instructor, who has helped to facilitate this training. All Cadets have been able to have a go at small sailcraft on the docks in Bristol. It is hoped that Clifton College itself will become a recognised RYA centre so we will be able to offer further training and qualifications alongside the powerboat training that we have offered for a number of years.

The Summer Field Day for the younger Cadets was a four-day camp on the banks of the River Wye, just below Symonds Yat. We were able to offer a variety of activities, such as canoeing,

mountain biking, orienteering, pioneering and camp craft. The Cadets were a superb team, ably led by the younger NCOs. Here, Toby Denner was invited to take on the role as Head of Section for September 2023. His positive and inclusive attitude will certainly mean that the new recruits will have a great role model to follow. Toby will ably be assisted by Megan Cook and Benjamin Herbert as his deputies.

As times change, it is harder and harder to gain access to MOD facilities. It is hoped that this coming year, more of the traditional opportunities will resume and we will be looking to make full use of them. Thanks go to the able and willing team of officers for all their help and support to run the Navy section: Lt Williams, Lt Bates, SLt Jackson, SLt Marchesi, Mr Richmond and Mr Crocker, you have all been of enormous help and we could not have run this year without you.

Lt R Beever Officer i/c Navy Section.

Summer Field Day

Day 1

After Being dropped off in the Forest of Dean, three separate groups were tasked with selfnavigating towards Biblins Camp on the River Wye. With all three teams successfully arriving at camp, the burrow was opened and tents put up. A rotation involving sessions of camouflage, cycling, making bracelets with paracord and first aid were held as activities during the afternoon. A ration pack dinner was followed by games of ‘stuck in the mud’ and baseball.

Day 2

Another set of rotations began, consisting of mountain biking, building a trebuchet, orienteering and orange cake baking. In the evening, the boys entered the burrow and the girls moved into the tents. Alongside the nightly baseball game, there was also a game of ‘piggy in the middle’ in which everyone took part.

Day 3

Everyone woke up excited about going canoeing. After a morning session on the water, playing games and learning how to manoeuvre the boats, we were all freezing under the shelter, but luckily the teachers and NCOs supplied hot chocolate. In the afternoon we set out on the two-hour ride from Symonds Yat to Monmouth Rowing Club. After we had all tackled the rapids, Mr Beever (chocolate supplies

at the ready) was mistaken for a fisherman on the riverbank before the swarm of canoes surrounded him looking for food. Back at camp, the Cadets were ready to perform in the Sod’s Opera for a chance to sleep in the burrow for the final night. The boys performed a spin-off of Romeo and Juliet, the girls adapted a song to sing and the NCOs performed a recital of Libera Me. After careful consideration from the teachers, the girls emerged victorious, claiming the burrow for the final night of camp.

Day 4

Waking up on the last day felt weird as nobody wanted to leave Biblins and the forest. After breakfast and organising our kit, there was one final activity: a navigation brain game and fire-building-based race in which groups from different teams needed to locate an NCO and complete a brain game such as Sudoku, word searches and general knowledge in return for either a fuel gel pack, a lighter, or paracord. The first team to retrieve all three items and create a fire that burned through their paracord won a prize of non-ration-pack-style food.

A special thank you goes to all of the staff and NCOs, who put a huge amount of effort into making the trip so fun and run really smoothly, but also to the Cadets for putting their all into every activity.

Fergus Brown (NT)

CCF Army

October Field Day

The October Field Day gives our new Year 10 recruits the first opportunity to test themselves in the field. All the basics are covered, such as basha building, camouflage and concealment and feeding in the field. During this time, valuable lessons were learnt as we had some very poor weather, which tested all the Cadets to the limit as they attempted to keep dry and warm. The rest of the Army section deployed and, after rehearsals, put into practice some of the six section battle drills and other tactics they had learned throughout the year.

Summer Camp, Langport

The Army Cadets took part in a four-day joint exercise with the RAF section based at Langport Range. Over four days, the Cadets took part in a wide variety of training and activities. Putting the Marksmanship Principles into practice, each Cadet got the chance to fire the Cadet Rifle with 50 rounds. This exercise was the culmination of six weeks of hard weapon training to ensure all the Cadets were current and competent to fire live ammunition. After a little coaching, they were achieving very good scores and we have discovered some strong shots who could progress well in the shooting team. The next three days were a round robin

of activities covering archery, paddleboarding, first aid, and general Army fieldcraft and tactics whilst living in the field. Paddleboarding on the River Parrett was an excellent activity and something we will continue during CCF Parade Days. The chance to fire blank ammunition at a static target highlighted to the Cadets the need for good weapon-handling drills and allowed them to show their determination and aggression as they worked in pairs to overcome the static target in poor weather conditions. During the evenings, the Cadets were issued with their MoD rations, and they also had the chance to practise cooking them for themselves. After dinner, they took part in some fieldcraft training, which involved a night demonstration showing how far light and sound travel. During this phase they were able to practise core skills such as patrolling and field signals.

The Summer Field Days were a great success in which a wide variety of training was delivered and many new skills were acquired. All the Cadets should be extremely proud of themselves, especially as we had 12 hours of solid rain in which they learnt to deal with the elements and keep their morale high.

WO2 (SSI) Mitchell and Lt L Davage (Army Section OC)

“During the evenings, the Cadets were issued with their MoD rations, and they also had the chance to practise cooking them for themselves.”

CCF RAF

Summer Field Days:

The NCOs’ Perspective

Our summer field exercise started with a parade on the Quad on Sunday morning. We had breakfast and checked that we had our full kit. Next was a coach ride to Langport Range and an hour-long minibus leg to Dolebury Warren for our day’s hiking and navigation. Once there, we split into two teams and set off on different routes. Despite some mis-timing, all went well and the weather and the views from Black Down on the Mendips were glorious. After slight navigational issues, we returned to Langport Range and training area, partaking in the CCF staple food - 24hr ration packs - and building our bashas. Just before we got to sleep, there was a demonstration of nighttime sound and light propagation.

On the second day, we awoke to the sun shining through the canopy, and prepared our breakfast rations. The agenda for the day was paintballing and learning the basics of fire and manoeuvre. As RAF Cadets, this was new to us but good fun nonetheless. As a background activity, we also did a first aid refresher, including activities such as ‘hide and seek with a fake casualty’ and ‘carry Mr Serle in a makeshift stretcher’ (it didn’t work). Our afternoon activities were fire building from scratch using hand-crafted fire-sticks and flint lighting. We also learnt how to make water filters using plastic bags, sand, grass, gravel and charcoal

and even dirty socks! In our downtime there was even a chance for some of us to have a go at archery with Lt Davage. The evening brought a return of greatly missed playground games such as ‘stuck in the mud’ and ‘fishes in the sea’ (we were having so much fun that half the Army Cadets joined in too!). Just before bed, we drilled a night-time patrol with Mr Hughes’ insistence on the use of herringbone RVs and silence. We were so quiet we had a really good view of a red deer grazing without us disturbing the animal.

The plan for the third day was to fire air rifles and build field shelters. Much progress was made on the shelters, though some failed to meet Mr Hughes’ exacting standards. To our great dismay, at 15:00 hrs the rain became too much and map making and air rifle shooting became impossible. So it was that we spent the remainder of the day and night under the waterproof shelter of our bashas, eating and drinking hot rations to boost morale.

On Wednesday, both we and the rain had dried up and it was time for a favourite activity of the trip - paddleboarding on the River Parrett. Despite everyone falling in at least once, this was one of the best tasks that week. All things must come to an end, however, and with a slight detour to collect the Army section, we returned to school triumphant, morale at an all-time high. All in all, not a bad way to end the Summer Term.

The RAF NCOs

Activities & Societies

Clifton Herald

Clifton’s favourite school newspaper has writers handpicked through a rigorous application process (We’re kidding, PLEASE join next year). Some may compare us with superheroes, and though we may be lacking when it comes to laser vision and flight, we are super at getting a newspaper published every year. In fact,

our well known catchphrase is ‘next year we are going to publish termly.’ This year was an eventful one for Team Herald. Led bravely into battle by editors Daisy Whittard and Piers de Voil, we fought deadlines, the CCF trying to steal our classroom, and our own procrastination to put out the seventh edition. We also ran a session in Chapel in the form of a news quiz in which several records were broken,

including the most obvious attempt at cheating (Yes, we are looking at you, Mr Lobo) and the most jellybeans awarded as a prize. If you haven’t read the Herald yet, pick up a copy from the library or school shop. From popstar insects to Artificial Intelligence, this newspaper has something for everyone.

Lyra Coulthard (HH)

Environmental Challenge

We have had an incredibly productive year and the students involved have been active in helping change our school community to become more sustainable. Much of the change has been implemented as part of the Bristol Educational Partnership’s Climate Challenge programme. Our students have during the year developed their own understanding of sustainability and how our lives and the economy is changing to incorporate it. There have been visits to schools, universities and organisations like Future Leap to understand how we can make small but impactful change.

Students pitched ideas to College Senior Leaders and have been helping bring their projects to life. The College now has a sustainability committee and a subcommittee, which is chaired by a student representative. These groups will identify areas and act to imake improvements. A new transport app called HomeRun has also been introduced. This app will enable parents and students to make more sustainable travel choices and the students are excited to see what an impact it can have on indirect CO2 emissions, air quality and congestion on the roads around the College. We thank all the students for starting this journey with us and look forward to more exciting opportunities and changes next year.

Ben Bates and Dan Janke

Photography

The photographers have been learning all about technical and creative camera skills using black and white film and 35mm SLR cameras. They have looked at compositional viewpoints and depth of field, all whilst making sure they have the correct shutter speeds and aperture for a perfect

exposure. They have processed the film and learnt how to use the darkroom to make black and white enlargements of their negatives. They have also mixed traditional and modern photographic processes together by converting digital images into negatives and printing those in the darkroom as well.

Paul Wigginton

Christian Forum

Christian Forum has continued on Wednesday evenings in the MFL café, fully in person this year with snacks and physical bibles making a welcome return. We have looked at the end of Luke, Acts, Philippians and how to live as a Christian in the programme. A small number of pupils have attended from a range of Houses and discussions have been deep and meaningful. We hope to see new faces next

year, with the requirement to attend being a willingness to think and discuss the Christian faith. Social highlights have been the annual pizza evening in the Michaelmas and barbeque in the Summer Terms. Thanks are due to Lymington Rushmore Holidays and local churches for their excellent support. We would also like to thank Mr Mather, Ms Gold and Mrs Kenyon for their encouragement and interest in their roles overseeing activities and the co-curriculum.

Jay Gardner

Pride Society

Pride kicked off in loud and energetic style with karaoke supplied by our faithful PS2, which is older than all of the students! A buzzing atmosphere saw us through great hits, including Kate Bush, Dolly Parton and ABBA. Our focus for the year was education and spreading awareness and our Pronoun Project was run four times this year alone. We had a fabulous new addition to Pride this year: Mr Rossell, who brought with him the joys of arts and craft. One of our big events was our first Pride Parade. Mr Rossell helped us make slogans that we could iron onto shirts. Ms Downing also made regular appearances as a supportive and trusted member of staff who also happened to be greatly experienced in the art of D&D. In the spirit of Pride, we had enormous fun rampaging through fantasy worlds in the guise of half-orc mercenaries and mystical druids. We were also thankful to Mr Farrow, the college’s Safeguarding Lead, who met with us and expressed support and understanding for LGBTQ+ students at Clifton College. We also met with the team at the San, discussing both counselling and healthcare and how they could make us feel safer and more supported when seeking help, either physically or emotionally. Of course, our focus was not only outwards. Many of our own members worked hard and took to the stage to present us with interesting and engaging talks. We heard about ‘Gay TV and Books,’ ‘Being Trans in Sport’ and ‘Bisexuality.’

The biggest week of the year for us was, of course, Pride Week! This year it took place in April so that it could end in the much anticipated Pride Parade. The Society had an entire Chapel Week during which we heard from current students, members of staff and some very special OCs, Kit and Briden. Hearing from such a range of voices in the Chapel, all in support of Pride was only the beginning of the overwhelming support

and excitement that the school community supplied over the week. The Pride Parade was also made even more fantastic by an excellent speech by our pride captain, Tara Madan, and the number of people taking part was excellent to see! Still buzzing from the success of the parade, Pride Soc packed onto a minibus and road-tripped to Stowe for a very special Pride Conference, which was attended by multiple schools’ Pride Societies. We heard talks from Mazz Image, Martin Prendergast and Ambassadors from the charity, Just Like Us.

At the end of the year, we had to say a very emotional (albeit temporary) goodbye to the lovely Mrs McCormack. She’s

been an integral part of our community and a passionate advocate, who has been at the forefront of the Anti-Prejudice Programme (APP) for LGBTQIA+ issues. Just as importantly, she was always there to offer a comforting word and help coax a smile when you’d had a bad day. And of course, none of this would have been possible without the fabulous and ever-supportive Ms Walker, our selfless and compassionate leader. Without her, Pride at Clifton would not be the accepting, loving and powerful movement it is. Not only does she speak fearlessly on our behalf, she also puts up with the hectic chaos that has become synonymous with Pride over the years.

As this year of Pride came to a close, we went out in high spirits with a picnic by the pond with the reins (armband) being handed over from Taz to Megan. It was an emotional evening of goodbyes and good lucks with many of our members leaving the school and starting new chapters, but everyone had one thing in common - the love and support of each other. Here’s to the Pride Society of the future: good luck and never forget that you are who you are; knowing and accepting that is the most powerful thing you can do.

Tara Madan (WT) and Megan Cook (HLH)

STEM Club: UK Rocketry Challenge

The UK Youth Rocketry Challenge is a competition that requires students to scratchbuild a model rocket of at least 65cm in length and at most 650g mass. This year’s brief was to carry an egg (representing an astronaut) which had to stay intact to avoid disqualification. The aim was to get as close to 850ft (259m) altitude as possible. At the top the rocket would then split in two and parachute down within 43 to 45 seconds. Scoring was based on the deviation from these parameters.

The team, formed of Year 12 students Jude Young, Zuzanna Marciniak, Emily Murray, Joseph Collins and Jack Fowler, began in Michaelmas 2022 by securing funding via the OC Society, enabling the construction of a few kits to gain experience with rocketry. Subsequently work on their own design began,

working from simulations in the OpenRocket software package to determine how the rocket would need to be designed to ensure stability. With a tight schedule and supply difficulties with the large rocket motors, only three test launches were possible before the regional contest, with smaller motors than were ultimately used. These results were used to measure the error in the simulation. After three successful flights at the regional contest, securing a place in the top 20 teams in the country, the team was invited to the Nationals.

After some more testing, involving creating new altimeter enclosures, modular drag modification systems and calling a window cleaner to remove the rocket from the tallest tree at BB, the team made the four-hour minibus drive to the launch range to compete in May. They ended up in 12th place overall, the first team from Clifton to ever qualify for the National Final.

Jude Young (ST)

“After three successful flights at the Regional contest, securing a place in the top 20 teams in the country, the team was invited to the Nationals.”

Drama Club

Our students have worked hard during the Summer Term and across the year to create a wide range of drama monologues and physical theatre performance work. The students shared their efforts with an audience as part of the Arts Evening on the Quad, a superb opportunity to perform in front of an up-close crowd.

Rhian Orzel and David Saunders

Student Librarians

The Student Librarian team grew to an impressive 20 library enthusiasts from Years 9 to 13. They began the year with a bookshop tour around Clifton and the harbourside on a sunny Saturday afternoon. Other highlights included: running a literary themed Chapel; assisting at author events; providing feedback for a pre-publication copy of We Are All Constellations by Amy Beashel (well done, Alicia Milligan!); promoting books at the Percival’s seasonal book fair; visiting Harry Potter Studios with the DT Department; venturing up the spiral staircase to visit the archives and hear some weird and wonderful tales of Clifton past from Dr Knighton; and filming a new library promo video. They managed all this alongside their regular library shifts, during which they all made great progress in the skills programme. Thank you and farewell to our Student Librarian leavers who have made such a wonderful contribution to the library over the years.

Leah Shaw

AniManga Club

AniManga Club has been an incredible space for students from all years to come and learn about one of the most celebrated artistic mediums in the world. Students have created presentations on the aspects of anime and manga that they find the most interesting. There have also been quizzes and art workshops for a more interactive experience. We have watched a variety of television shows and films voted on and chosen by the members themselves, which has led to fascinating discussions. Though we are a small community, this has not stopped us from being a passionate one. We are excited to keep the club going into the next academic year and see what new members and experiences will bring to the table.

Jacob Leonard (MH)

Board Game Club

Each Thursday pupils explore our expanding collection of games in the Reading Room. The strategy game Callisto and fast-paced card game Taco Cat have proved favourites, unleashing competitive streaks (and the odd squeal of frustration) in our players, whereas Six Second Scribbles has challenged their skill at communicating through sketching at speed. It has been heartening to see the group’s increased collaborative spirit develop through the weeks, alongside their graciousness in winning and resilience in defeat.

Esther Steward

Creative Writing Group

It’s been a fantastic year for the Creative Writing Group, especially our promising poets who have excelled in a number of literary competitions, represented the group at Percival Poetry Parties, Commem and the Arts Evening, and taken part in poetry workshops led by Louisa Reid, Caleb Parkin, Vanessa Kisuule and Danny Pandolfi. A special well done goes to Eli Jacobs who won Max Minerva’s Postcard Romance competition, with its YA book subscription prize, and to Jay Greengrass, Louisa Hall and Amy Fowler who made it to the final of the inaugural Bristol Young City Poet competition. We bid a tearful farewell to Creative Writing stalwarts Lizzie Ardrey and Tara Madan who have both contributed so much to the group, inspiring and entertaining in equal measure.

Emily Hawkins and Leah Shaw

Law Society

This year, the Law Society Michaelmas Term mock trial was focused on a case of arson, with pupils dividing into prosecuting and defending teams, producing a lively final trial. We enjoyed visiting speaker presentations from two partners from Burges Salmon on property and the renewable energy sectors, as well as another presentation on the fascinating topic of ‘Law and the Internet’ given by OC Judge Myles Watkins. In May, seven students visited Bristol Crown Court, witnessing barristers in action in real-life criminal cases. Most compelling was watching the final stages of a complex six-week murder trial, with the defence team convincingly demolishing the claims of the CPS in the case of two young so-called accomplices to the crime. Well done to all involved this year.

James Drinkwater

Scientific Society: Crime Scene Investigation

The Detective Project led our annual CSI event on 24th February 2023. The Upper Sixth biologists were exposed to a crime scene wearing forensic suits and honed their analytical skills, whilst exploring the evidence available to them.

Working in teams, they were required to deduce a motive for the killing and the story behind it. DNA fingerprints and forensic entomology helped to link the evening with their A Level Biology course. Following conclusions and presentations of their findings, the winners were rewarded with CSI lanyards for their efforts. Well done!

Mal Grohmann

Economics Society

The year started with a presentation by Dr Steve Morton, now retired, speaking about the economics of the UK housing market. Subsequent talks covered a diverse range of topics. Notable speakers included Professor Santiago Oliveros from the University of Bristol, who shared his expertise on game theory; Dr Tim Hinks from the University of the West of England, who discussed his recent publications on corruption and development; and Jeremy Masding, former Chief Executive of Permanent TSB PLC, who offered insights into his forthcoming book on management. A particularly memorable and captivating presentation was also delivered by Terry Song, who shared his profound interest in game theory, leaving a lasting impression on our students.

Eleanor Jenkins

Cookery Club

Cookery Club has met twice most weeks after lessons, with two regular groups baking treats to take away. We have made muffins, cookies and biscuits, bakes which are quick and easy to make and quick to bake. Pupils have enjoyed the activity, particularly their bags of goodies afterwards! Many thanks to Mr Janke and the matrons in Wiseman’s House for allowing our continued use of the kitchen.

Michelle Harris

Charities

At the time of writing the Charities Committee has raised almost £7,000thank you so much for all your support and cooperation over the past academic year!

In Michaelmas, we supported two charities: the Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). These charities were selected by the pupil Committee Representatives following recommendations from the College community. MS Society is the UK’s largest charity for those who are affected by multiple sclerosis, and MSF is the world’s leading medical humanitarian aid organisation. Throughout the term, the Committee ran numerous events in support of these two organisations, such as holding a Krispy Kreme doughnut sale for pupils, two Home Clothes Days (including the ever-popular seasonalthemed day at the end of term), and also a hot chocolate sale in the JCR, which went down a storm! Many thanks to Sodexo for donating the hot chocolate

so we were able to make a healthy profit for our charities. Another popular fundraiser was running a stall at the Prep School Christmas Fair. Despite a huge number of donations, we were able to sell out of second-hand toys and books. Our Lucky Dip jars were decorated in donated wrapping paper and contained edible surprises. Again, they proved very popular as all the items completely sold out. Lastly, the Charities Committee’s Chapel Week caught a lot of people’s attention as we discussed how paying for a Home Clothes Day was a very small price to pay, and only equated to buying two packets of crisps, 0.005% of a North Face jacket, or six seconds on a flight to the Cayman Islands! Chapel Week closed with a quiz, in which the student Heads of House were put to the test to answer questions based

on the two charities on which we focused this term. A special well done to winners Oakeley’s House!

In the Lent Term, we held our annual Love Day event, in which everyone had the opportunity to buy a bag of chocolates and have them delivered with a message to a friend to show appreciation for them. This initiative supported the charities for the term: IKWRO, Save The Children, and Help Bristol’s Homeless. Our first charity, IKWRO, provides advice and support to Middle Eastern women and girls living in the UK who are facing honour-based violence. This charity was suggested by the pupils in the school and the Charities Committee was keen to support this cause. Save The Children UK is an organisation that works to ensure children have healthcare, shelter and food as well as providing child protection services across the country. Help Bristol’s Homeless is a local charity whose mission is to change the lives of the homeless population in Bristol by prioritising the need for safe, stable and comfortable accommodation. The Charities Committee hosted Home Clothes Days, one with a Love Day theme of red and white, and another with a hoodies theme, which proved extremely popular. One of the highlights of the term was the Sponge the Teacher event held on the Quad. Thanks to so many teachers who were

prepared to get soaked, we raised a huge amount of money in a really short period of time!

Last but not least, the Summer Term began with a largely new Committee, eager to support some local charities. Our chosen charities were: Being Me, Bristol Suicide Prevention (BSP), and the Bristol NW Foodbank. Being Me aspires to celebrate people’s differences, with a particular emphasis on neurodiversity and LGBTQ+ people. Supporting this charity linked perfectly with the school’s Pride Parade in which students had the opportunity to parade around the school dressed in brightly coloured clothing to show their support and raise money through the Home Clothes Day. BSP is a suicide prevention charity in Bristol which was launched in 2018 with the aim of reducing suicides within the city. Bristol NE Foodbank was the other local charity which we were keen to support, as they provide, amongst other support, food parcels for people in food crisis. We raised money through several popular ice cream sales on the Quad and a 7-a-side football tournament, with the winners playing against a teachers’ team!

As we complete another successful academic year, we would like to thank everyone who has participated in any of our events.

Libby Bullen (OH)

Community & Enrichment

Here at Clifton we strive to shape our pupils into well-rounded individuals who have an awareness of their impact on the wider community. The Sixth Form students are given opportunities to volunteer in a variety of organisations as part of the Clifton in the Community programme. This year we have seen over 70 pupils head out into the local community every Monday afternoon to charity shops, primary schools, nurseries and foodbanks to make a difference to the lives of others outside the College. Some real highlights this year were the tea party our pupils hosted for some local Ukrainian families who were treated to the Pre-Prep Nativity

Service followed by tea and cake, and the grand opening of our new Clifton College charity shop, The Basement, which has been set up and managed by pupils. The Enrichment Programme continues to offer a variety of school-based activities that help to extend pupils’ understanding beyond the A Level syllabus. From a beginners’ sign language class in which you can gain a qualification in signing, to the Wharton Investment Challenge in which students develop an investment strategy and build a portfolio using £100,000 in virtual cash, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some pupils’ accounts of their experiences in the Community and Enrichment Programme this year.

Lydia Hawkins Director of Clifton in the Community

Community

The Basement: Clifton College Charity

Shop

Clifton College’s very own charity shop sells a range of school uniform as well as everyday items. The Basement offers volunteers the responsibility of sorting through donations, devising pricing strategies, selling items to pupils, staff and parents who visit the shop, and promoting special events, such as the popup uniform sale at Commem. It is the perfect place to come and discover amazing bargains, but it also offers the opportunity to declutter, and any donations are hugely appreciated. But why choose to shop second hand? Well, not only does it reduce waste and help you save money, Clifton College’s charity shop also gives back to the community. To date, the shop has made just over £1000, and all the proceeds from the shop’s second-hand uniform goes towards the charities supported by the Charities Committee (see p.70). Other clothing sold supports the charities of the volunteers’ choice.

Isabel Bevan (HLH)

Environmental Action Group

The Environmental Action Group has been dedicated to making a meaningful impact on our environment through various initiatives. One of our primary focuses has been on

gardening and cultivating areas to grow fruit and vegetables. We recognised the importance of sustainable food production and the benefits of consuming locally grown produce. We have also directed our efforts towards improving the biodiversity of our local ecosystem by cleaning up a nearby pond. By removing debris and pollutants, we created a healthier habitat that would encourage the presence of various organisms, including newts. Additionally, we implemented measures to support local bird populations by setting out bird food in designated feeding stations. This initiative provided a reliable food source for birds, especially during periods in which natural food may be scarce. We have also explored our creativity by using recycled paper for various projects. By upcycling and repurposing paper, we showcased the importance of waste reduction and sustainable practices. Looking ahead, we have exciting plans to sell the crops we grow in our garden. The proceeds from these sales will be used to buy seeds for further expansion and enhancement of our garden. This initiative will not only provide us with a sustainable source of funds but also allow us to invest in future projects that promote environmental stewardship.

Peer Supporters

Our peer support team aims to provide a community in which pupils feel comfortable to talk about their problems so that we can provide support and care for their wellbeing. Mental health

is something with which every human struggles at some point in their life and we want to give the best advice to those who need it. As peer supporters we want pupils to feel comfortable talking to us, knowing that they are listened to without judgement and that their feelings matter. Being educated by the Head of Safeguarding and the Anti-Prejudice Project is hugely important for us as it helps us to understand how to handle situations we may encounter and how best to help. Listening is a hugely impactful aspect of peer support as sometimes that’s all people need. Sometimes students may prefer to talk to someone of roughly the same age or House as they may have experienced similar situations. Our goal is to make Clifton College a safe community and improve the wellbeing of the pupils.

Ashton Gate Primary School

I have been volunteering at Ashton Gate Primary School, teaching French. When I first learnt what my placement would be, I was a little worried; the last time I studied French was in Year 9. The most important thing I have been able to teach is the idea that learning new languages doesn’t have to be scary. It can be made fun by learning games and chants. Admittedly, at first I was learning just as much as the children as I didn’t know the songs or the translations either! However, I picked up everything quickly and I was

able to take more of a lead as the sessions progressed. I have worked with three different age groups, starting with Year 3, then Year 2 and lastly with Year 1. I spent three sessions with every class, meaning that I was able to work closely with the same children and build on their previous knowledge. I have had to overcome many challenges whilst working with the children, like adjusting the teaching to accommodate the range of abilities within the class. An advantage of volunteering with other peers is that you are able to leave the front of the class to go and provide some individual help and attention to children who are struggling with the task at hand. A highlight of my volunteering had to be when two Year 2 girls came up to me at the end of a session and asked for me to write down the phrases they had learnt that day so that they could learn and practise them at home. Although I didn’t have the skills to actually do this (Mr Lewis did this for me!), it still felt really nice to know that these children had been inspired to carry on learning French outside of the classroom. This experience has been incredibly rewarding and you gain so many new skills, like being able to communicate effectively with younger people.

Becca Hills (HLH)

EDIB

Clifton College’s EDIB (Equality, Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging) work has been very impactful again this year.

Our vision to become a fully inclusive organisation continues and Géraldine Maringo, Assistant Head, EDIB, has continued to work with key stakeholders to implement the EDIB mission.

To educate our community about Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging

To educate staff, an EDIB reading group was created by Leah Shaw, Percival Librarian. The group met in the library every term and focused on a different theme, including protected characteristics such as race or sexual orientation. Recognising the importance of being informed and educated, one representative per department was chosen to join the group.

Staff completed a questionnaire about their EDIB training needs and the results showed a desire to focus on ‘The world we live in’ and ‘LGBTQ+ communities.’ The school signed a partnership agreement with SARI (Stand Against Racism and Inequality) who delivered a powerful training session on the INSET day at the start of the Summer Term. SARI will also train the Governors and pupils in the 2023/4 academic year.

To educate pupils, a range of assemblies were delivered across the College to raise awareness around different religions, discrimination and racism. Géraldine Maringo delivered a powerful assembly in the Lent Term to Years 6, 7 and Upper School pupils to teach them how to ‘call out’ racism and be an ally. Feedback from these assemblies has been overwhelmingly positive. Géraldine has also worked closely with Deputy Heads Pastoral James Averis and Ruth Coomber to help resolve EDIB incidents quickly. Education is key and pupils are not always aware of what racism and discrimination look like; real-life examples as well as words and expressions that should never be used were discussed.

To celebrate the contributions of marginalised groups to history and to our contemporary society EDIB was created because inequality exists within our school. This particular mission

is extremely important. All members of our communities should be celebrated and should not feel marginalised. Events such as Black History Month, International Women’s Day and Pride Month were celebrated with the community.

The Pride Action Group and Pride Society, who work under the EDIB umbrella, also worked hard to celebrate LGBTQ+ communities. The first EDIB Pride Parade was organised on 28th April. All Cliftonians were invited, but attendance was not compulsory. The atmosphere was indescribable as pupils, staff and parents got together for peace, unity and solidarity for LGBTQ+ groups. Lauren Walker (Pride Lead) and her team worked tirelessly to organise this brilliant event that will be remembered forever.

To embrace and celebrate diversity

The Pride Parade is a fantastic example of how the community embraced and celebrated diversity this year. The annual EDIB Celebration Day across the three schools also showcased our diversity. Events like these highlight our international and diverse student body and the need to celebrate diversity with all members of our community.

To give voice to all members of our community, providing them with the tools to talk about EDIB in a mature and informed way

The EDIB Committee, made up of 24 Upper School pupils, was stronger than ever this year. The increase in participation meant that conversations were comprehensive and thorough. Pupils were able to reflect on current issues in our society, such as new policies and laws and how they can have an impact when they leave Clifton. For example, the Baroness Casey report was discussed to reflect upon EDIB issues in our society.

Parents were also part of the journey this year and two EDIB parent meetings took place in the Michaelmas and Lent Terms. These meetings allowed parents from all three schools to meet and share initiatives and strategies to help us become

more inclusive. Safeguarding was discussed, especially around SEN pupils and how we can ensure that Clifton is a safe and inclusive place for all. Parents were extremely pleased about the provision of Whisper, an anonymous platform to raise incidents and concerns.

Géraldine Maringo, alongside other Anti-Prejudice Programme (APP) colleagues, conducted a range of sessions again this year. This programme gives children and young people a real opportunity to share their honest thoughts and views on EDIB topics and it has helped the Pastoral and Safeguarding teams to resolve incidents quickly and effectively.

The EDIB work this year continued to create a sense of belonging for all members of our community.

Ruth Coomber asked all Upper School pupils from an Asian background to reflect on their journey and everyday life at Clifton. The feedback was powerful but highlighted work that still needs to be done. Some pupils talked very openly about the microaggressions they experience every day and our aim is to prevent these behaviours in the future. The Flair survey (conducted again this year) will also continue to play a key role in our EDIB journey.

Sport

Girls’ Hockey

1st XI

The girls’ 1st XI started their season with a trip to Dublin to test themselves against some of Dublin’s strongest schools and clubs. Upon their return, the Tier 1 Cup games and block fixtures came thick and fast. Early highlights included a 3-1 win over Marlborough in the Cup, a 1-0 win over Malvern and welcoming a touring school from Argentina.

With the release of many players to club hockey on Saturdays, there was an opportunity for many players to represent the 1st XI, and no less than 28 girls pulled on the 1st XI jersey this season. Notable block fixture results included the beating of Kingswood and Taunton School by the same scoreline, 3-2. The girls continued their great form by dispatching Stowe (3-1), KES Southampton

(4-0), King’s, Taunton (6-1), and Canford (4-3) on a very foggy evening. Following a tight loss to Dean Close, the team needed to beat Millfield to qualify for the national quarter-finals. In a hotly anticipated affair with an immense crowd, the girls unfortunately came off second best to a very strong Millfield side in a thrilling game with some excellent attacking hockey on display.

A special mention must go to all those who represented the 1st XI this season, especially Upper Sixth pupils Nysia Fry, Paige Cox, Nell Lane and captain Nuala Lixton. Congratulations also go to those who represented their countries over the course of the season: Clemmie Houlden (England), Darcy Shields (Ireland), Connie Davies and Eloise Moat (Wales).

Olly Keenan Head of Hockey

2nd XI

A 4-1 loss at Marlborough was not the start that we wanted in September, but nine fixtures later and our play was virtually unrecognisable! The season saw the players go from strength to strength, winning six matches, drawing one and narrowly losing another two. With Nysia Fry shouting orders from central defence, the pupils demonstrated slick skills and teamwork throughout the season, channelling the ball beautifully up the pitch and into the D, where an impressive 43 goals were scored in total! A special mention goes to Tara Madan for some spectacular saves and to Jess Auty for some equally spectacular goals. Despite the odd moan, the team faced every training session and match with an abundance of enthusiasm and tenacity. Well done!

Helen Sykes and Charlie Graveney

3rd XI

Starting the season against Marlborough was always going to be tough but after a 6-0 loss, the only way was up! Under the great leadership of Isabelle Wilkinson, we managed to draw in a hard, well-contested match at Malvern. Kei Ki Chau’s injury meant that we lost a valuable defender for much of the season

and despite losing every match thereafter, we approached every game with our trademark optimism and enthusiasm. The team was laden with superb defenders (with strong hits) who we coaxed to play forwards. Nina Nissim was an outstanding goal-keeper and deservedly got MVP from nearly all the opposing teams. We finished the season gloriously with our only win (8-0) against Dean Close.

Nessie Walsh

U16A

The season began with a very disappointing performance away to Marlborough, but it was a lesson for all that proper preparation makes a real difference. The team knew that they were far better than the result, but perhaps they didn’t know just how far they would subsequently travel. The team bounced back in the next match with a win against an older Malvern 2nd XI, forming a pattern for the remainder of the season. Although the Saturday side could vary due to the requirements of the 1st XI, every player (a combination of Years 10 and 11) contributed faultlessly to some excellent and impressive victories, often against the U18 2nd XIs. Particularly notable were victories against Taunton School and Dean Close at the end of the Michaelmas Term. By then, they were a team who had flourished, matured and were enjoying their

hockey. The true highlight of the season came in the form of the U16 Tier 1 Cup. With some outstanding victories against Cheltenham, Dean Close and Malvern, the team progressed into the quarter finals and found themselves in the top eight of the country. The reward was an away fixture to Millfield after the Christmas break. However, the season ended as it started, with the team hampered on the preparation front due to conflicting Lent Term sports, as well as the weather. Millfield won comprehensively, with our players not performing to the level they had demonstrated before Christmas. It was a tough and disappointing lesson, but Millfield were excellent on the day. Though it is easy to get lost in this one final result, the team reached the top eight in the country, an outstanding achievement.

Gary Catchpole

U16B

Although the U16B team played most of their games against talented U15A sides, the Clifton girls played with grit and determination and were always able to smile. Their attitudes never faltered, even in challenging circumstances. The team was able to score impressive goals against tough opponents, including Dean Close, Taunton School, Kingswood and Malvern. The highlights of the season were the two hard-fought battles to draw against Millfield (0-0) and Marlborough (2-2). Notable

season-long performances included Katie Rayner, who was acknowledged as the player of the season, and Olivia Breakwell, who was the most improved player. Ishbel Bird, who was nicknamed ‘the wall,’ was also strong in defence and able to assist in saving many goals.

Fenella Burgess was a fantastic role model and captain who scored some outstanding goals. Georgia Grey was also a player who excelled in any position.

Claire McCormack

U16C

A difficult start to the term against a very tough Marlborough side saw the Clifton team lose 4-0. The U16Cs rallied together and, after some effective practices where the focus was on formation and distribution of the ball into space, we had a good 0-0 draw against Malvern. This draw was a slightly frustrating result as the team played very cohesively, but the opportunities for goal didn’t come. Success was finally achieved against Kingswood School, with all the practices coming together; a well-earned win against a strong side. It was nail-bitingly close but the winning goal was achieved in the second half and the team managed to hold on to the lead until the end, with some excellent saves from Florence Fraser-Hawkins. This win was followed by another draw against Millfield, and the final game was a resounding success, with a 1-0 win against Dean Close to finish the season on a high.

Susannah Griffin

U14A

A class act from start to finish and fifth in the country, a fully deserved reward for this amazing group of pupils. The team hit the ground running in their pre-season tour to Dublin and never looked back. They made their transition from seven-a-side to 11-a-side look seamless. They played structured hockey and were ruthless in attack and defence. It was also great to involve a handful of talented Year 8s in the squad throughout the season. The girls won the county and region convincingly, but just came up short in the National Finals, losing 2-1 to the eventual winners. The group has a bright future ahead of them and we have no doubt that you will see many of them in the 1st XI and some even representing their country in years to come.

Stuart Loughrey and Christa Clark

U14B

There were some memorable, magical moments this season for the U14Bs. After a long trek to Malvern, the team definitely began with ‘travel legs,’ but it was certainly a game of two halves. Following a motivating half-time talk, the team found their form and slotted away six goals, Emeline Valetin, Maria Woodward and Lily Smith with two each to win the game in fine fashion! This goal-scoring fest continued into the next match where we finished with a 7-1 win. The following week saw a really great game against Cheltenham College and, despite not winning, Lily Smith did score the shot of the season, deflecting the ball over the keeper’s head! The final match against Taunton was really tough, but showcased some of the best hockey the team played all season. The defensive unit soaked up a tremendous amount of pressure and Scarlet Collins made some jaw-dropping saves; despite the loss, the team felt proud of their grit and tactical play.

Sarah Johnson

“They made their transition from seven-a-side to 11-a-side look seamless. They played structured hockey and were ruthless in attack and defence.”

Boys’ Hockey

1st XI

The boys’ 1st XI endured a challenging season, mixing with the best teams in the West in the England Hockey Tier 1 League, playing the likes of Millfield, Dean Close, Peter Symonds and Taunton. The boys put in some admirable performances against some incredibly tough opposition. Notable performances throughout the Cup included 1st XI captain Alex Warren and influential midfielder Joe Naughton.

Despite the Cup results not going Clifton’s way, there could only be one result that would salvage the boys’ season, the highly anticipated local derby against BGS in a thrilling Friday night lights fixture at Failand. After an intense end-to-end encounter, the boys put in their best performance of the season and, to the delight of travelling fans, came away with a 3-2 win thanks to a last-minute goal from Tom Harding. Other goals came from Marcus Allan and Joe Naughton, with an outstanding performance in goal from players’ player of the season, Tom Kipling. Other notable performances from the boys were their 6-2 win over Malvern and 1-0 win over King’s, Gloucester.

A huge thanks to all the boys who represented the 1st XI, especially the Upper Sixth who had a great season and are truly a credit to themselves and the school. They will be sorely missed but they have given a huge amount to Clifton hockey over the years and we are truly grateful.

Olly Keenan

2nd XI

The 2nd XI enjoyed a season of entertaining hockey and fantastic team spirit, finding the perfect balance between commitment to and enjoyment of the sport. The term began superbly with some devastating, pacey counterattacks, resulting in a 5-1 victory away to Queen’s, Taunton’s 1st XI. A match lost to the weather was then followed by victory in a midweek game against Malvern. Millfield visited a few days later and, despite the 2-5 scoreline appearing considerably in favour of the opposition, the story of the game was very different; if a five-minute spell was removed it could have easily ended with a Clifton victory. That said, it was an excellent and entertaining match and a perfect one from which to learn plenty of lessons.

A straightforward victory at KES Bath was followed by a nailbiting win at King’s, Gloucester, though it was perhaps the Clifton finishing that made it this way. However, the final touch was even harder to find in the final match against Prior Park as, sadly, the team ended with a loss on a very difficult surface. Overall, a very enjoyable season with some terrific moments of entertaining hockey and excellent contributions made from players in Years 11, 12 and 13.

Gary Catchpole

3rd XI

The 3rd XI ended the season unbeaten with victories against Prior Park and KES Bath and a hard-fought 2-2 draw with Millfield. There was a frustrating start to the term as two matches were cancelled due to the weather, and our talented team were a bit undercooked going into the first game against Millfield and rather slow to get into the game. A 2-2 draw was a good effort against a very skilful side. KES Bath saw a fine display of counter-attacking hockey from Clifton, which was the hallmark of the side; the robust midfield and defence became

adept at turning the ball over and the pace of the attackers punished disorganised defences. The final victory against Prior Park was, once again, a very good game and a nice way to finish a hugely enjoyable season.

Tim Hancock

U15A

The U15As had a good winter season, playing enthusiastically and showing excellent team spirit against some tough opposition, winning all but one match. The team showed great progress and growth throughout the term; tactical adjustments were made and the boys learnt how to work better as a unit, playing some very good technical hockey. This development resulted in more successful performances. Some players focused on link-up play, while others gained strength and confidence on the ball. Skilful players created scoring opportunities, and others showcased excellent ball control and understanding of the game. Distributing the ball effectively and making intelligent passes were notable strengths in the midfield. Each player’s dedication and improvement contributed to the overall progress of the team. Captain Eddy Muggridge set the tone each game, with support from vice-captain Adam Wyatt. This was a great season upon which to build next year, something that bodes well for a good performance in the Cup.

Kerensa Ogbe and Fraser Henderson

U15B

We began the season with bright promise, winning handsomely against Queen’s, Taunton (7-1). Our team clicked in this match and the outcome reflected excellent passing, dribbling, crossing and shooting. Sadly, this game proved the highpoint of the term as injury and absences blighted the rest of the time together. We lost against stronger sides from other schools who displayed more knowledge of hockey and experience of the game. The boys kept playing to the end in all games and showed a fine spirit in the face of adversity. Training was also keenly competitive and showed a wonderful attitude to learn. Next season I hope the boys can be available to show their real potential consistently.

Jay Gardner

U14A

Possibly one of the most talented boys’ teams to come through the school, from 14 games played over the season, the boys lost just one. The team played with speed, skill and aggression, and were ruthless in the opponent’s attacking third. The boys got through to the County Final convincingly against some quality opposition such as Kingswood and BGS. In the Regional Finals, the team came up short against the BGS side to whom they had drawn earlier in the season. Falling just short of the National Finals was a bitter pill to swallow, but this squad has a seriously bright future ahead of them if they continue to build upon this year’s foundation. I hope these boys continue to play club hockey alongside their school commitments as many have the potential to represent the 1st XI next year.

Stuart Loughrey and Christa Clark

U14B

The boys should not look too deeply into the results of the season but consider how, as a relatively inexperienced team, they have developed over the term. They made some significant improvements, individually and as a team, against larger hockey schools, and put in some commendable performances. It was disappointing that two of our fixtures were cancelled against Taunton School and Prior Park. The season started well with a 4-1 win against Queen’s College, Taunton. We were a stronger team from the start and it was great to see a level of ambition to move the ball around the pitch, providing our forwards with scoring opportunities. Reuben Trapnell made the most of these chances and will be thanking midfield players Henry Downing and Magnus Hammond for their skill in moving the ball upfield. As a result of frozen pitches, our next game was against Millfield. Always a tough fixture, but keeping them to 2-0 was impressive and the score doesn’t do the Clifton team

justice. We looked dangerous in possession but were unable to convert opportunities in their D. Tavey Appa defended extremely well until his game was brought to an end by a ricocheting ball. Tom Strinati also had a good game in goal and kept out some clean strikes from Millfield players. King Edward’s, Bath and King’s, Gloucester both provided tough opposition. They defended extremely well and were quick in offence, which we

found hard to defend against. KES were able to build pressure through a string of short corners, to which we eventually succumbed. Both of these games ended in 4-0 defeats; the boys played well in the end and were perhaps unlucky not to come away with some scores. Thank you also to Mr Henderson for his support, encouragement and coaching.

Ben Bates

Boys’ Rugby

1st XV

The term started with a preseason trip to the high altitudes of Tignes in the French Alps. This amazing setting saw the College train alongside Millfield, Rugby and Dulwich College. This preparation put us in good shape for the start of the season. We began on a Sunday morning in Sedbergh against Millfield as we were part of an invitational match for the new National Schools Cup. What a great opening; the boys played exceptionally well, taking the spoils on live stream and kicking the season off in great style.

Much of the next two weeks’ fixtures were in preparation for the annual Ryan Bresnahan match at Clifton RFC. It had been a number of years since the match had been a true contest and Kirkham Grammar

certainly proved this. In a very combative match, Clifton came up just short, though the match likely gave the team the shock it needed. The performances between then and half term were brilliant, with notable wins against Hartpury College and a fantastic match against the then Daily Mail Champions Berkhamsted School at the StoneX Stadium.

Half term brought a well-earned break before what was arguably the toughest season run in by any Clifton College team for decades. A win over Sherborne set the team up nicely for what was becoming a real rivalry against Wellington College. The previous season had brought a famous win at Wellington with a last-minute drop goal and all knew Wellington would come looking to settle a score. With this in mind, the team played arguably their best match of the

year, winning the fixture by a remarkable scoreline of 43-12. The Governor’s Cup was the next challenge and, with a short turnaround of five days and two players away with England U18, to retain the Cup was a credit to the team’s resilience.

The most eagerly anticipated fixture of the season came on the penultimate weekend when, for the first time, Clifton hosted Blackrock College from Dublin. Blackrock are arguably the biggest production line of international players in the Northern Hemisphere and to play them on the Close was a historic moment. The first half lived up to all expectations and was certainly a step up in any schoolboy game in which we had been involved. The ferocity and intensity was very apparent and reflected in the half-time scoreline, which was very tight at 6-3 to Clifton.

However, the second half was all Blackrock and, with a little more experience and preparation, the visitors produced a one-sided half, the final well deserved scoreline falling in favour of Blackrock.

The final game of the season saw a battling win away at Bromsgrove and meant that Clifton finished runners up in the Daily Mail Cup, our highest ever finish. In a season that saw Clifton play in their hardest ever fixture list, to play in the manner and style that was true to the shirt was an incredible feat by all. Many players deserve a mention but credit must go to Joe Wooler who captained the side very well and to Louie Trevett, Tom Bowen and Aidan Boshoff who all gained international caps.

Matt Salter Director of Rugby

2nd XV

Early in pre-season it was very clear that the 2nd XV would be extremely strong and would certainly not have been out of place as a first team in many schools. The season started with two very convincing wins over Sir Thomas Rich’s School and Old Swinford Hospital.

Next came the challenge of playing Richard Huish 1st XV. A tough physical encounter saw the side winning by just a single score. Further wins came after the half-term break with the most notable being a convincing win over Wellington College, the margin of victory being 49-0. Other wins of note came against Sherborne, Marlborough and Bromsgrove, but the biggest challenge was to come up against Blackrock College from Dublin. The game certainly lived up to the hype, and it was only a needless offside in the final minute of the game that saw Blackrock take the spoils. The final score in an exceptional game of 2nd XV rugby was 15-17.

The season was both successful and very enjoyable. Many of those in the side contest for places in the 1st XV next year. The side played with excellent spirit and were excellently led on the field by key players in their final year.

John Bobby

3rd XV

An enjoyable season for the 3rd XV who were excellently led from the back row by Zaki Adamson until a serious knee injury at Marlborough ended his season prematurely. Of the 10 games played, seven were won and the three losses were by the smallest of margins: two points away against King’s College, Taunton 2nd XV, one point at home (in injury time!) against Wellington College and

eight points against Millfield. The team played some fantastic running rugby throughout the term, scoring 343 points, and amongst a number of skilful performances, the standout player was Josh Paulin who had an outstanding season at scrum half and was deservedly promoted to the 2nd XV towards the end of term.

Jim Williams

U16A

The early part of the season was a little disjointed and spoilt by injury to a key player, but we played some good rugby, winning matches against Thomas Rich’s and a series of festival matches at Millfield. The Ryan Bresnahan festival match against Kirkham proved a real highlight as we played with intensity and skill. The highlight of this half though was King’s, Taunton, where we recovered from 17-0 down to win with the last kick of the game. Wellington away was a great occasion. Though we lost, the team played a big part in a superb game of schoolboy rugby. After wins against traditional rivals Marlborough and Sherborne, we arrived at the last match against a strong Bromsgrove side, where an all-round performance led to a convincing win on the Close. A fitting way to end a great season.

Alan O’Sullivan

U16B

The season kicked off with a very narrow loss to Tommies in a training game, their big A team centre scoring the decisive try. We were all really encouraged by the spirit shown by the whole group and the training match allowed loads of players to put their hands up. A similar story occurred in a training game against Clifton High, although this time the score favoured us. The first official fixture came

against a spirited Radley College D team; despite their tenacity, our phase play and continuity punctured their defensive line several times. A match against their B team would have been a cracking contest. Then the disappointment of BGS not fulfilling the fixture was followed by a tough block: King’s, Taunton (won 36-14), Sherborne (0-0), Wellington College (lost 26-21), Marlborough (lost 2221) and Millfield (lost 14-7). All were tight affairs as the scores suggest, and all were winnable. The reality is that even at U16B level, small margins matter. However, I could not have been

more proud of the squad; they showed resilience, teamwork and skill. Our finale was against Bromsgrove and it was fitting that the team won easily, playing some great attacking rugby.

My many thanks to Mr Dom Harris for his support and help, to all the parents who loyally supported us and, of course, to the players. We had some great fun on the journey and unveiled some true contenders for A team rugby in the future. I hope that all of the squad continue to play and enjoy rugby in the Sixth Form.

Jon Hughes

“The season was both successful and very enjoyable. Many of those in the side contest for places in the 1st XV next year.”

U15A

Losing the first match of the season was the best start as it set up one of my best years as a coach. The team quickly realised that they couldn’t rely on individuals and developed team skills and patterns whilst learning how to play 15-a-side rugby. Each game saw an improved performance and an amazing Cup run into the Lent Term. Highlights were wins over Millfield, Wellington College and Radley. The Cup draw saw us play away in each round and we made it to the semi-finals. Having dominated possession throughout the game, we just lacked the firepower to cross the white line. It was a loss which will make the team stronger in years to come, but the squad must be congratulated for Clifton’s best ever U15 performance in the National Cup. Special mentions go to captain Lewis Popple and player of the season Max Jones.

Andrew Wagstaff

U15B

The U15Bs got off to a flying start with an impressive performance against Sir Thomas Rich’s School, playing an expansive and skilful brand of rugby. They were then brought down to earth with a couple of very challenging fixtures against A teams from local rivals BGS and St Bede’s. However, a block fixture against Sherborne School saw them bounce back for a hard-fought away win, demonstrating admirable resilience to see out a close fixture. Narrow defeats to strong teams from Wellington and Marlborough followed before a last-minute try saw them draw a pulsating fixture away to Millfield with what was perhaps their best performance of the season. They finished the season on a high with an impressive victory over a traditionally strong Bromsgrove side. It was very pleasing to see players step up and compete for places in the As and the teamwork and effort demonstrated by the whole squad will stand them in good stead.

Clive Jones

U15C

This was a truly brilliant season. We enjoyed terrific progress in the group from boys who played last year and new joiners to the school. To go from not winning a game in a season as U14Cs to not losing a single fixture until the final weekend is a real credit to the group. The ability was obvious, with early wins against Clifton High As and King’s, Taunton Bs. Against Marlborough, Millfield and Sherborne, seven points were conceded in total as the aggressive, disciplined defence grew over the term. We scored at least three tries in each game and won comfortably. The Wellington College draw may not look like our best result, but context is important. By the end of the game, six of the first choice side were missing, and to fight back from 14-0 after five minutes and 26-14 with 10 minutes to go, to draw 26-26 was remarkable. The performances of many players have been excellent and all must take credit for their efforts. In the final match against Bromsgrove, we put in our best performance,

blowing Bromsgrove away with speed, skill and passing to lead 36-0 at half time. We ended up winning 43-5 and finishing a fine term unbeaten.

Jay Gardner

U14A

An exciting first season in the Upper School for the Yearlings, who demonstrated some fine abilities in the first few weeks, putting in excellent performances against Old Swinford Hospital, Kirkham and BGS. The first real test was away at Taunton and, despite the best efforts of the hosts, Clifton produced a length of the field try to win 10-12 in a superb advert for schoolboy rugby. Comfortable victories against old rivals Sherborne and Marlborough underpinned that this is a team that has serious potential in national competitions in the future. Even close defeats to typically strong outfits Wellington and Millfield showed that this group has remarkable resilience. A final away fixture at Bromsgrove produced the best performance, beating a strong opposition 12-20. A special mention to Caspian Rugg and Tom Strinati for leading the team and to Miles Pearce-Lynch for the player of the season award.

Charlie Balfour and Keir Smith

U14B

The U14B team embarked on the season with a triumphant start. Beginning with a gradual return to rugby, the U14Bs were keen to showcase their natural running and tackling skills in a well-contested win over Sir Thomas Rich’s School. Comprehensive wins against Old Swinford Hospital and local rivals Clifton High School and BGS followed, igniting hopes for a stellar season. However, as the season progressed, they faced formidable opponents and experienced some challenging encounters, resulting in a series of losses. While the final results may not fully reflect the team’s capabilities, their early victories and overall progress are clear

indicators of their potential. Their resilience and willingness to learn from both victories and defeats bode well for their future endeavours, and, with continued effort and experience, I anticipate seeing them reach greater heights next season. Congratulations on a term filled with growth and valuable lessons.

Patrick Jones

U14C

As the playing record indicates, this was a very tough season for this young team: all eight matches ended in defeat. However, as is often the case in sport, this does not tell the whole story. The team made significant progress and produced some really battling performances against very strong opposition. The game against Wellington College perhaps best exemplified this and was certainly the performance of the season. Above all, they enjoyed themselves and had fun in both training and matches, which is always good to see.

Simon Tait

1st VII Boys

The sevens season is judged very much on your performance at Rosslyn Park. However, this year had a twist for the senior boys, with the inclusion of an international sevens tournament hosted by Rugby School to celebrate 200 years of rugby. The difficulty presented was that this meant four days of sevens rugby in a row - a huge ask! We took a wider squad of players for both tournaments to combat the fatigue and possible injuries. The weather at Rosslyn Park could only be described as horrific; it was more like a mud bath at Glastonbury. However, this did not deter the group who played well to top their group with a notable victory over SGS. The second day saw a very tough group, but once again the boys qualified. In a match that was more suited to trench warfare than sevens, Brighton just had the legs and that’s where our journey ended a very credible top four in the country.

There was little time to dwell or shower as we headed to Rugby School for the start of another two days of sevens. We were

pooled with teams from the home nations and Canada. The group exceeded all expectations and sailed through, winning all their games. The following day saw us in the knockout stages against a familiar international opposition in the form of the Grange School, Chile. They played some superb sevens and at a great pace, which proved a step too far for our lads who did not quite have it left in their legs. The loss put us into the final of the bowl. The match was against our amazing hosts Rugby School on the pitch where 200 years ago the game was founded. What an

occasion, what a way to send off our leavers and what a way to finish the year! The opportunity to finish on such a high really focused minds and we played arguably our best sevens of the tournament to win on our final outing. The celebrations were respectful and emotional. What an amazing few days and ones the coaching team, Dr Greene, parents, and I will remember for a long time. Thank you to all the leavers involved: you were a credit to Clifton, your teammates and your parents.

Matt Salter

U16 VII Boys

After an unbeaten rugby XVs season, hopes were high for a similarly successful rugby sevens term. The quality of the squad was very good, and better on average, than previous years. The outcome of the season would rest on how effectively the squad could play as a team. For the first time ever, all of the squad could be in the starting seven and offer quality. The first test was a round-robin friendly training session hosted by Clifton, with Marlborough, Millfield and Cheltenham. Two of these friendlies were ‘won’ whilst the other lost by a score. More importantly, live play against real opposition and thus experience was gained for the 14 who played that day. Sadly, Bristol Schools competition was cancelled due to bad weather, but in March Clifton travelled to

the West of England Sevens. The group was won, although King’s Bruton in particular showed some physical defiance, always a good test. The semi-final saw Clifton go behind early to King’s, Taunton, but with patience and good ball playing, Cliton came back to win 31-26. Exeter School lay waiting in the final and they got off to an electric start, 24-0 up. Just before half time, Clifton finally kept possession and broke through to score. In the second half, Clifton dominated and, with the last play, had a chance to win, but crucial moments often dictate outcomes and we spilled possession. The final score was Clifton 21-24 Exeter. The big take away was the resilience that the team showed to almost make a stunning comeback.

The final test was Rosslyn Park Sevens on some very heavy and wet pitches, which did not really

suit our wide game. As with the South West tournament, the group was won comfortably, but the acid test is the knockout game that determines your team’s fate at the end of day one. Just as with the South West final, Clifton coughed up two early tries to trail 14-0 against the Oratory School. Just before half time, Clifton pulled one back. The second half was all Clifton’s, but as we went into the final minute, Clifton were still behind; emotions ran high and pressure can do terrible things to your mind. Uncharacteristically, we kicked the ball away, but we were unable to regain it: game over. The squad was devastated not to progress to the second day of the competition. In pure playing terms, perhaps they did enough to justify their place, but the scoreboard is what matters; the brutal reality of knock-out rugby. As ever, the players were fantastic all season.

They trained hard, they were very dedicated and they tried to play open, flowing rugby with a smile on their face. One or two of them will go on to become very successful at rugby and all will take away memories of friendship and fun. The parents and other supporters were fabulous at all the matches and tournaments and gave encouragement and consolation that we all need at different times. We were lucky enough to have Mr Evans share his coaching wisdom and ability and all of the squad move forward into the 2023-4 season as better players.

Jon Hughes

U14 VII Boys

Under 14 sevens is arguably the most enjoyable sport for a coach. Talented boys who are keen to learn and regular tournaments with which to test them. The season started early with a trip to Dean Close. A very unlucky draw saw us in the ‘Pool of Death’ alongside Cheltenham, King’s Worcester and Sherborne. Good performances against King’s and Cheltenham were undone by a slip up against Cheltenham and the boys were pushed into the Bowl. Victories against Monmouth and local rivals Collegiate saw us come home with some silverware. Next up was Bristol Schools and despite being run close by a couple of teams, the boys performed outstandingly to retain the Cup for Clifton. After a few weeks of training, it was time for the business end of the season, with West of England and Rosslyn Park. West of England started well, with the boys coming out of the group on top and producing their best performance against KES Bath. Millfield in the semi-final was one of the best games of sevens I have seen at this age-group and a couple of late tries unfortunately saw Millfield progress to the final.

Rosslyn Park saw another tough draw, but one that the boys were confident they could do well. It was a case of ‘not getting off the bus’ as we succumbed to successive defeats to Dean Close and Cardiff High. With pride, and an outside shot of qualifying on the line, the boys stepped up to beat eventual winners Eton. A brilliant finish, but the team were left with a sense of what could have been. A fantastic experience and it has left the boys in a good position for both VIIs and XVs for the 2023-24 season.

Charlie Balfour

Girls’ Rugby

1st VII Girls

This was only the second year for rugby sevens as a sports option for girls and the popularity has grown again with a strong and committed following. The group is made up of girls new to rugby and a group of multi-talented girls who also play 1st team hockey, netball and cricket. The Clifton College Sevens was the second tournament for local teams after a competitive run out only weeks before at Millfield. Seven teams challenged for victories in preparation for Rosslyn Park, with Clifton losing just one match. Unfortunately this year’s Rosslyn Park dates clashed with the girls’ cricket tour to South Africa so the squad was depleted. With only seven fit and available players, they bravely attended Rosslyn Park with a team ready and able to take on all four opposition teams without a replacement to help with the four 14 minute matches. To their credit, every player gave it their all and represented Clifton with spirit and enthusiasm.

U16 VII Girls

The U16 girls’ team were the most committed group, training outside of normal sports afternoons and taking on all challengers with great enthusiasm. The team was made up of Year 10 students so they have another year as under 16s. They competed well at the Millfield and Clifton tournaments, losing only two of eight matches. Rosslyn Park saw the competition step up in a strong group, but the girls gained valuable experience and look forward to their third visit to the tournament in 2024.

Danny Grewcock

High Performance Rugby Manager

Netball

1st VII

It has been an exciting year for the 1st VII. Early on in the term we saw the appointment of outstanding captain, Annie Nichols. Annie’s commitment, skill and positive attitude have never wavered and it has been a delight to watch her lead by example this season. During the Michaelmas Term, the team started their campaign to qualify for the regional tournament in Bournemouth for the second year running. After our training game against QEH, which saw a 34 draw, the team were excited and ready for the challenge. With focus and energy, the 1st VII dominated the tournament to get through to the semifinals against Kingswood, a match that went to extra time. Clifton were composed and determined and, with one final goal, took the win to qualify for Bournemouth, where they performed brilliantly, with a draw against Exeter College (11-

11), and a resilient performance against Millfield in which they kept fighting until the final whistle! They had convincing wins against Dauntsey’s and Callywith, 12-3 and 15-5 respectively. It was a proud day! The young 1st VII played some tough fixtures throughout the term, but showed real depth and perseverance in many games. Highlights were wins over Cheltenham Ladies’ College (26-17), King’s College, Taunton (52-36), Kingswood (31-30) and Cheltenham College (31-26).

At the end of June, the U17s travelled to Loughborough for the annual World School Netball Games, excited to play schools from across the world. Their opening game against Hillcrest International School saw the full squad dominate from the first whistle, resulting in a 35-2 win. The following two games were closely fought but the convincing 19-9 win against Caterham School to end the

day put them top of their group and into the semi-final against Oakham. Both teams came out firing, putting their bodies on the line, with the shooters holding their nerve to finish 18-18, leading to five minutes of extra time. Once again, it went end-to-end but the U17s were able to force errors, keep their centre passes and won the game 22-21. The intensity, physicality and high level of skill was repeated in the final against Guildford High School. Guildford took an early lead, but the U17s dug deep to bring the score line level. Once again they were in a battle of end-to-end netball and were unfortunate to lose out by one goal to come runners up overall. Exciting, entertaining and nail-biting netball was played throughout the tournament.

Charlie Graveney

2nd VII

The 2nd VII team is an exciting squad of a mix of experienced Upper Sixth and Fifth Form players. They quickly came together as a team despite the age gap and clicked to start the season with an incredible and very convincing win over Taunton School (43-18). The team went on to win eight out of their nine matches, only losing to KES, Bath in what was a fine display of netball from both sides and the first time another school had matched the 2nd VII’s skill. In the final game, Cheltenham College came out firing, having not lost a game themselves. The Clifton team were spurred on by this display and managed to go up another gear to win the game 41-25. The team had great strength in all areas, with accurate and consistent shooting backed up with a quick, intelligent centre court and defenders who continuously hunted the ball down.

Kirsty Willis

3rd VII

The mighty, boisterous and skilful third team had a joyful season, working hard and playing hard! They dominated the majority of their games, with some especially favourable score lines against Royal High, Collegiate, BGS, King’s Taunton and Taunton. Our only loss of the season was against Dean Close, where the cold weather on the outdoor courts and some injuries got the better of us. Nevertheless, the team dusted themselves off to have a thrilling win in a tight game against Cheltenham College to finish the season on a high. Special mentions go to Nysia Fry for her positive and motivational attitude in leading the team and to Eloise Moat who was a welldeserved player of the season.

Christa Clark

4th VII

The 4th team had a spectacular season, winning all of their matches. They were an incredibly strong team. Izzy Bevan, Erin Parton and Helena James, in defence, made some awesome interceptions and proved hard for the attacking teams to break through. The 4ths were also blessed with a strong shooting team (Camilla Roderick, Lexi Pearce-Lynch and Margot Bird) who rarely missed a shot. Captain Rosie McCorry was such a versatile player, regularly receiving player of the match for her ability to be everywhere and for working so hard for the whole match. The centre court players (Jemima Smith, Costanza Giuggioli and Katie Rayner) were equally as dynamic, their fitness running circles around the opposition! An amazing team I felt privileged to have coached this season.

Ruth Coomber

5th VII

The 5th team had a very good and progressive season, working together throughout the Lent Term to learn each other’s strengths and figure out sets of play that worked well. There was the occasional heartache in matches played but there were also some excellent wins, notably against QEH and King’s, Taunton. All matches played demonstrated the excellent work ethic, team cohesion and versatility of every player on the team. Position versatility was demonstrated through players rotating into various positions, even some they had not played before. Team spirit was definitely one of the achievements of this group. Each player was supportive of all members of the team and words of encouragement heard from the sidelines were a highlight.

Mary Beever and Susannah Griffin

U15A

The U15As had a tough start, the first game an absolute thriller against Taunton. The game was goal for goal from the start right up until the final whistle! Unfortunately, it didn’t go our way, losing by one goal at the buzzer. Despite the result, the team showed resilience and determination right from the start and I knew a good season was ahead of us. The second game against BGS was a similarly tightly-contested match in which we managed to get ahead with some great interceptions from our defence and maintain the lead to win the game by two goals! The next three games saw the team face very strong sides from KES, Royal High and King’s, Taunton, where the team managed to win a quarter in each match but lost the games.

The team finished the season with their biggest win against Dean Close, a very talented side. The Clifton players worked seamlessly together, our defence capitalising on some great interceptions made by Lucy Greene, Thea Milton, Hattie Wells and Llywela Kenyon, who all worked superbly to turnover the ball. Emilia Puddicombe was our dominant Centre, linking our defence and attack beautifully with her effortless drives and strong passing to set up our pocket rockets Jemima Windows and Ffion Phillips right at the circle edge! It was incredible to finish the game 10 goals ahead and victorious thanks to shooting queens Harriet Taylor and Matilda Mortimore! Special mention goes to Matilda Mortimore, who was awarded coach’s player of the season, and Lucy Greene for receiving the most improved player of the season.

Joelle Moreno Head of Netball

U15B

The U15B team started the season with two close losses against Taunton School and BGS. Although the team loved to chat and to laugh, they became dedicated to their training and worked hard with their on-court team dynamic. As a result, there were strong wins against Royal High (25-6) and King Edward’s School (22-15). Their final match also saw them finish in style when they beat Dean Close 28-14. Notable performances throughout the season included Tilly Alkin who was able to gain plenty of defensive turnovers playing GK/GD; Aggie Stephens was consistent throughout the mid-court and was always able to slow the game down to gain advantage for the team. The team also had plenty of outstanding shooters, including Aspen Prole, Mabel Moloney, Polly Lloyd and Mitzeeé TaylorTadhunter. The team worked extremely well together and were a delight to coach.

Claire McCormack

U15C

This was a superb season for the U15Cs, with all team members showing real determination and spirit. After losing the first match, the players came back fighting and went on to win all their remaining fixtures! Their work rate, focus and commitment to improving saw each player make excellent progress in terms of their movement around the court and ability to read the game. The versatility of the mid-court players and accuracy of the shooters set the team apart from their competitors, and a special mention must be

given to Olivia Grewcock and Olivia Breakwell who proved to be utterly impassable as a defensive partnership. It was a privilege to coach these girls and I look forward to their continued success next year.

Lydia Hawkins

U15D

It was an enjoyable season for the U15D netballers, who played two closely-fought games and finished the season with a good and satisfying win at home against Dean Close. We were fortunate enough to have a strong and committed squad of 11 talented players, and this allowed for each person to contribute to the team in a range of positions. They were all flexible, motivated, goodhumoured and supportive of each other, and made great progress across the Lent Term. We proved particularly strong in defence, only conceding nine goals across our matches, with Jodie Byas, Libby Laredo and Mali Jones proving a formidable force in the opposition third. Thanks to all the players who contributed with such effort and enthusiasm; their team spirit and energy made for a really positive and rewarding season.

Emily Hawkins

U14A

The under-14s always begin their season in the Michaelmas Term, and after very little netball, they competed extremely well in the county tournament. The group welcomed lots of players new to both the team and the school. It was the first time some of the players had played together, but

they did not let this faze them, competing extremely well, and making it all the way to the semi-final round, losing out to eventual national winners, Redmaids’ High School. The Lent Term started with the difficult away fixture against Taunton, with a loss of 13-31, but from then on, the team improved week on week. Some memorable results included wins against Bristol Grammar School (20-8) and King Edward’s,

Bath (31-21). Lottie Whatley had a brilliant season, which included a call up to play for the 15As, where she put in a playerof-the-match performance.

Chantelle Wopara

“We were fortunate enough to have a strong and committed squad of 11 talented players, and this allowed for each person to contribute to the team in a range of positions.”

U14B

The U14Bs had a great season, winning the majority of their games. They had some very close matches against BGS, Taunton, Royal High and King Edward’s. Scores were always very close, but our shooters always seemed to manage to stay on top! Thank you to Heidi Cosway, Charlie Moran, Grace Garrett and Lily Bullough. Our very first loss was against King’s, Taunton, where we had no substitutes and at one point we only had six players on the court due to an injury. They managed to stay strong and close the gap towards the end of the game. Our centre court was dominated by Amelie Weston, Emily Denner, Ellie Read and Harri Ferris, who worked incredibly hard every match and fought for every ball in the game. Our defence consisted of Bella Ascherl, Leyla Gulek and Emeline Valentin, who managed to keep the opposition clear of the goal on many occasions. They were wonderful to work with all season and I look forward to seeing them progress as they move into Year 10. What a wonderful season we had!

Kath Jeffrey

U14Cs

The U14Cs had a brilliant season, with a win and one exceptional draw. The players focused on improving their communication and their placement on the court and we saw some significant improvements as the term unfolded. Some of our star players worked hard on their shooting, helping us to our victory. They should be proud of their growth as players.

Hannah Clark and Ivonnes Langsi

U14D

What a difference a season makes! When the U14Ds rocked up at their first training session back in January, there was an overwhelming willingness to get stuck in and learn. Our first match, just a week later at Taunton, was difficult, but played a pivotal role in spurring the girls on to improve their netball. The next couple of months of Lent Term saw the U14Ds go from strength to

strength; the girls settled into positions, the ball smoothly made its way up the court and the goals came rolling in (16 in one match!). Despite winning none of our four matches this season, the team should hold their heads up high; they were ambitious, enthusiastic and worked their socks off during every training session and match. A fantastic group to coach and an enjoyable season. Well done, girls!

Helen Sykes

Boys’ Football

1st XI

After a disappointing Cup run in the Michaelmas Term, the 1st XI footballers were all eager to get the Lent Term underway. Unfortunately, the first two weeks were interrupted by poor weather and only a handful of fixtures could be played. The 1st XI’s opening home game was moved onto the 3G against a very physical Wycliffe side. In poor conditions and having not trained for many days, the boys produced a brilliant display, forcing Wycliffe into their own half for the large majority of the game. After going down 1-0 just before half time, the equalising goal came shortly before the final whistle. A great delivery into the box was met by Henry Davis, who forced a terrific save from the opposition goalkeeper, only for Louis Afford Lessof to tap in at the back post.

A very convincing 2-0 win over Bryanston, followed by a 3-2 win over Malvern meant we would go into the half-term break undefeated. Not only were the results excellent, but the boys’ performance in the games was extremely pleasing. After a 3-2 loss to local rivals BGS shortly after half term, the 1st XI produced three brilliant results against very strong opposition (4-3 Sherborne; 1-1 Monmouth; 1-1 Millfield), with the pick of the bunch our win against Sherborne, coming back from 3-1 down at half time to win the game. Our season ended with a brilliant 1-1 draw against a typically strong Millfield side where the Clifton boys deserved far more than the draw.

MVP of the season went to Charles Rendle, who singlehandedly changed games for us with his brilliant left foot and who contributed to pretty much all of the goals scored this term. Players’ player of the year and coach’s player of the year were awarded to Charlie Davies and Tom Rayson respectively, both

of whom brought great energy, tenacity and, above all, an excellent attitude and work ethic to the team. The boys should be extremely proud of not only the results, but also the ways in which they have played and conducted themselves. They have now set a great foundation for future 1st XI players, and I could not be prouder of the team.

Joe Brooks Head of Football

2nd XI

It was a season characterised by bad luck for the 2nd XI. In brief summary, kitless opposition, relentless bad weather and Premier League standard refereeing all challenged the 2nd XI to show their mental as well as physical attributes. Throughout the season the 2nd XI players were tremendously committed. Even for a maths teacher, there were an uncountable number of questionable goals conceded, yet nearly each time the 2nd XI bounced back with a goal of their own.

Ben Sweetnam scored all the team’s non-penalty goals until his unfortunate thigh injury suffered while scoring in the penultimate match of the season, finishing with six goals in four games, including a hat-trick against Sherborne. As a proper team player and model professional, his coach’s player of the season award was thoroughly well deserved.

The players’ player of the season, when asked why he thought he had been chosen, responded merely with the words, ‘I don’t know.’ The excellent Freddie Jones is a battler on the pitch, while modest off it. Valuable qualities, especially when combined with those of the Upper Sixth leavers: Sammy Neil, Jamie Dodson, Jack Bayliss, Dan Broome, Finn Nunes and the captain Theo Claessen. Theo’s superb leadership, always acting in the best interests of the team, inspired the team with his passionate team talks, fearless tackles and analytical problem solving. These players have left a mark on the 2nd XI and their fighting spirit has become part of the team’s DNA.

Stephen Cross

3rd XI

Coming off the back of a memorable World Cup final viewing, the 3rd XI were eager to impress Coaches Luker and Smith in the Lent season. The team, a combination of Fifth Form talent, attackers from the Lower Sixth, and a core group of the Upper Sixth ‘old guard,’ went to work in what would turn out to be a great season all round. Whilst initial games against Blundell’s and Malvern failed to reach the heights of that Argentina vs France spectacle, a reversion to the classic 4-4-2 formation saw the team flourish in true Clifton fashion, beating Bryanston 4-1, as well as BGS in a record 11-0 win at Watson’s Field. There were also spirited performances

away at Sherborne and Monmouth, losing narrowly to both U16A sides. Standout performers for the season were William Faulkner, Babafemi Alokolaro and Alfie Moloney. A special mention goes to the departing Upper Sixth, who were committed throughout the season.

Keir Smith and Nick Luker

4th XI

The 4th XI got off to a promising start, having won a plethora of training matches against the 3rd XI during their weekly training sessions. Their first match was very successful, with a comfortable win over Wycliffe College (4-2). Unfortunately, as the season progressed, so did the quality of the opposition. A draw followed against Malvern, with losses against Sherborne and Monmouth. Player of the season went to Oscar Levy for his inspirational leadership on the pitch, always leading by example, and most improved player to Zaman Shafi for his consistent improvements as CDM. It was great to see boys from different year groups playing the beautiful game so well together. Thank you for your positive approach to training this season and for representing Clifton College so professionally.

Max Ernest-Jones and Patrick Jones

5th XI

The 5ths and Development Football had a highly entertaining and enjoyable term of football. Although the two external games didn’t necessarily go Clifton’s way (1-1 against Malvern; 0-4 against Sherborne), these matches really played second fiddle to the hugely competitive internal games. Regular three match series, day vs boarding, Year 11 vs Sixth Form and the like brought about moments of inspiration, including edgeof-the-box volleys, Barcelonaesque one-touch football and last-minute penalty saves, as well as moments of hilarity and some of the best own-goals ever seen on New Field. Overall, one of the most enjoyable terms of sport that these members of staff have ever had the pleasure of coaching.

Charlie Balfour, Dom Harris and Alan O’Sullivan

U15A

The team enjoyed a fantastic unbeaten season, with four wins and two draws against strong, talented opposition. The players showed excellent character and unity in a number of challenging games. The 20 goals scored came from 11 different players, showing the strength in depth of the team. This year’s golden boot was shared by Will Brown and Vinnie Sims, with five goals each. Player of the season was awarded to our captain, Will Brown, for a number of outstanding individual performances and excellent leadership. A special mention must go to Hugo Averis for goal of the season, which was an outstanding free kick against Malvern College from 25 yards out into the top corner. An excellent campaign from a talented group of players.

Matt Allen

“Player of the season was awarded to our captain, Will Brown, for a number of outstanding individual performances and excellent leadership.”

U15B

The U15Bs won all but one of their matches this year - and as that sole defeat happened when 20 top athletes were away for a rugby competition, there is some weight to my team’s insistence that ‘the lost match doesn’t count.’ The U15Bs achieved this excellent record through a combination of technical ability, determination, and team spirit. In terms of standout players, we had a ‘rock of Ice’ at the back in Ice Lapharojkij. In midfield, the Petit-and-Vieira-like Ed Tomlinson and Sam Harber were everywhere, battling to get the ball and then propelling the team forwards. Up front, we had the scary pace of Ciaran West, the commitment and neat skills of Ben Traynor, and Asher Ogbe powering through and scoring goals. Anson So also did a great job as goalkeeper. The key element, though, was the camaraderie between the players, always looking to help each other out and put in effort to get the win together. It was a season that reflected both great football and character.

Greg Laing

U14A

The U14As enjoyed a tremendous season, displaying both skill and tenacity on the way to winning all seven of their fixtures. Nathan Daniel, Ollie Barlass, Lucas Side, and Rhys Pollitt were ably led by Harry Rendle in forming a solid defence in front of goalkeeper Ashby Turner, who proved a reliable shot-stopper and distributor. The midfield provided plenty of creativity and energy, with excellent performances from stalwarts Theo Prole and George Bell as well as Adam Anabtawi, Stan

Sainsbury and Charlie Newman. With such solid foundations, the forwards were free to attack, and they did so ruthlessly! Both Rio Richardson and Jack Baker were high on the assist charts, whilst Jack Williams and King Murray (whose overall performances earned him player of the season) were clinical in front of goal and helped the team amass an incredible 31 goals. The most pleasing performance came in the last game when, despite the pressure of an unbeaten season and the absence of some key players, the team stayed true to their attacking intent and showed lots of character to see out victory over a strong Millfield side.

Clive Jones

U14B

Despite some tough opposition, an undefeated season was the reward for this group of players. This accolade was thoroughly deserved, especially as they needed to show a lot of resilience to secure some of their results, particularly against Monmouth and Sherborne - holding on to a draw in the Sherborne match was one of the highlights for their coach. In these close games, the players raised their performance and, importantly, learnt to maintain their discipline when under pressure. There are a number of promising players in this side and it would not be surprising to see several of them break into the A team next year. As a group, they looked to really enjoy both training and matches, which is always good to see.

Simon Tait and James Evans

“The midfield provided plenty of creativity and energy, with excellent performances from stalwarts Theo Prole and George Bell.”

Girls’ Football

1st XI

The first Clifton College girls’ football team was formed in January 2023. We had a small group to start, and the weather was occasionally against us. However, the girls were extremely motivated, resilient, and full of enthusiasm. Their first match against Malvern College was a close result, considering that the opposition had been playing since September and had more games under their belts. The Clifton team continued to battle on, giving their all at an away game against Sherborne. Victory eventually came in the final game when the girls beat Cheltenham Ladies’ College to end the season on a high. Thank you to the hockey and netball girls who joined us throughout the term. All the girls played brilliantly; Ruth Pleister had a great season, scoring in every match in which she played, and Shuki Rabiu showed huge courage and confidence in defence. Well done to all involved.

Samantha Scott and Kate Dodd

“The Clifton team continued to battle on, giving their all at an away game against Sherborne.”

Boys’ Cricket

1st XI

The 1st XI had an enjoyable season, losing just three matches. Many of the team benefitted from a tour to Cape Town at the end of March 2023, meaning they were able to hit the ground running when the season started. Though some momentum was lost due to a very wet spring and a slightly underwhelming defeat to Malvern in the first game, there was a good 50-over win against a strong Taunton side at the start of a busy period of both T20 and 50-over matches. The XI produced their best performance against Millfield in the National Schools T20 group match, winning convincingly. However, everyone was brought back down to earth two days later at King’s, Taunton, with a nine-wicket defeat. A topsyturvy week was completed when the team beat Millfield for the

second time in five days. The heavy defeat at King’s cost us dear; having played well to beat Taunton School and Blundell’s, it was King’s who progressed to the knockout stages on net run rate. As exams were in full flow, our cricket lost some of its edge and, in particular, the catching really let us down. A poor performance against Bradfield was the last defeat of the season in a busy final three weeks. The two-day matches against Rugby and Magdalen College School both ended in draws. Rain in Oxford meant only one innings was possible for both teams and the annual Rugby encounter petered out to a rather dull draw.

It is always a thrill to play teams from overseas: Clifton hosted four teams, three from Australia and one from South Africa. An excellent 176* from Ollie Rayner against The Nathan Lyon Academy underpinned a

dominant performance. Grey College, South Africa, former school of South African great Graeme Pollock, were a very good side. An excellent ‘squeeze’ in the middle overs by Aaron Davies and Jack Benkenstein meant a competitive match was won by 25 runs. Victories against The Hutchins School, Tasmania and St Kevin’s, Melbourne were also very enjoyable matches.

The captain, Ollie Rayner, was the stand-out batsman of the season, his aggressive approach often putting the opposition under pressure. His best innings was probably his 53 off 30 balls against Millfield in the T20 group. Small totals can sometimes be awkward to chase and it is easy to sit back, but the 106 run target was reached in the 13th over. Zain Syed showed plenty of promise, and with two years left at the school, I am sure there is plenty more to

come from him. They say great fast bowlers hunt in pairs: Joe Davies bowled with great skill and pace at the top of the order, but he lacked a consistent pace bowling partner from the other end. Dan Broome’s versatile leg spin proved very effective in T20 power plays and his two five-wicket hauls in two weeks against Millfield and Taunton were reward for a hardworking cricketer. This was a season of steady improvement without quite reaching the heights. It was rare that everything clicked at the same time, with the exception of the Millfield T20 win. However, there was enough quality in the side to win the majority of games. With a number of good young players coming through for 2024, the future is in good hands.

Tim Hancock Head of Cricket

2nd XI

The 2nd XI cricket season was one of my most enjoyable terms of sport. There was a real camaraderie and team spirit on show, which led to some excellent cricket being played and some moments of truly gripping tension. A first match against Malvern was a good test but one that was met with an exemplary fielding and bowling performance to restrict the opposition to 119-7 off 30 overs before knocking off the runs with five wickets to spare. Taunton were next with another complete bowling performance and an efficient run chance to win by eight wickets. The Millfield game was eagerly anticipated and, as before, Clifton put the opposition into bat on the Close. The chase

was tracking nicely, but a flurry of late wickets left the home side agonisingly two runs short.

Home victories against Bromsgrove and the Nathan Lyon Academy produced a first century on the Close for captain Marcus Allan as a fitting way to finish his time at Clifton, as well as a five-wicket haul for Arran Sen, but it was the match against new rivals Bradfield that produced the game of the season. Put into bat, Clifton scored a slightly below-par 156/8 off their 30 overs. Hosts Bradfield raced away after a slow start and looked to have the game wrapped up, but a few wickets fell and we went into the last four overs with Bradfield still requiring 24 runs. Jacob Stevenson and Max Warby restricted the scoring with some

tight bowling, but it still seemed unlikely to be enough as Felix Willis stepped up to bowl the last over with eight runs needed… two runs… another two runs; then, a dot ball; four needed off three; the ball goes up in the air, and it’s caught! A new batter at the crease and they try to take a run to the keeper, but there’s a run out! Last ball, and all three results are still possible. Another miss, another mad dash from the batters and another run out! Clifton win with a team hat-trick to finish. Absolute scenes.

A better group of students I would struggle to find; it was the highlight of my week to be able to watch them on a Saturday afternoon. Good luck to our leavers and exciting times ahead for our Year 11 and 12 students in the 2024 season.

Charlie Balfour

3rd XI

It was a difficult season for the 3rd XI, with a number of fixtures being cancelled due either to weather or the opposition unable to raise teams. There were some very good cricketers who played 3rd XI cricket this term. The game at Taunton demonstrated the talent in the team. Fin Fielder produced a knock of high class to make light work of the target. Millfield proved a harder nut to crack and the 3rds lost a very high quality and competitive match. Well done to everyone who played; many players stepped up easily into 2nd XI cricket during the term, which demonstrated the strength in depth of cricket at the school.

Adam Dixon

“The captain, Ollie Rayner, was the stand-out batsman of the season.”

4th XI: The 1862s

Through meadows green, they played their game, Each stroke and wicket, etching their name, United they stood, as a gallant brigade, For cricket’s love, their hearts forbade.

With graceful drives and precision’s bow, The 1862s made a jubilant vow, To chase the laurels, to leave their mark, In the annals of cricket, their legend embark.

Now, as the tour concludes, heads held high, Memories cherished, like a budding rose nearby, The 1862s return, their spirits lifted high, For their journey’s end is not goodbye.

For Max Hanson’s dream, it continues to grow, The legacy of The 1862s, forever aglow, On cricket’s canvas, their colours will paint, A testament to passion, an immortal saint.

Together they stood, as a team strong and true, Through victories and setbacks, their bond grew, Their journey to Guernsey, a testament grand, The 1862s, forever a legendary band.

Stuart Loughrey

U15A

Following a good winter of intense pre-season training, expectations were that this would be a successful year for the U15s. Strengths lay in both the batting and bowling departments, with the side looking very balanced in its composition. It was, therefore, hugely frustrating that the season was so slow to get started because of the inclement weather. By winning the county competition last year, the first round of the National Cup was to face King’s, Taunton. In a game where Clifton was certainly competitive, it was a shame that they were overpowered by such strong opponents.

There were early successes against Malvern College and

powerful middle-order hitting. Collegiate needed just five from the final over to progress through to the South West Regional Final, but Mac Isaacs bowled a quadruple wicket maiden, to see Clifton through to victory.

U15B

Taunton School before a very frustrating afternoon at Millfield. Clifton certainly looked the stronger of the two sides, but some indifferent bowling saw Millfield score well over 200, which proved to be too many. Following this defeat came a stretch of 12 consecutive wins, the most notable being Marlborough, Bromsgrove and Bradfield. It was rare that the side was ever at full strength, with players being added to senior squads on key match days. It was therefore testament to the strength of the team that this sequence of victories was possible.

The most memorable match of the season was away at Collegiate School. Clifton posted a respectable score of 168, but Collegiate fought their way back into the game with some

A highlight over recent seasons has been going to a two-day festival in Oxford to finish the term. Once again, Clifton produced some excellent cricket. Having easily won their first three matches, the decider came in the final game against Magdalen College School. Unfortunately a below par performance saw the win going to the home side.

It was an excellent season for this very talented squad of players and I wish them all the very best as they move into senior cricket next year. Many of them will have a large part to play in first XI cricket in the future. Player of the season went to Jack Benkenstein, most improved player to Sai Kollareddy. U15 Colours: Logan Bowden, Lewis Popple, Jack Benkenstein , Rhys Baker, and Sai Kollareddy.

John Bobby

A fairly good season for the U15B team. We played some marvellous games, fulfilling our potential with bat and ball, as well as underperforming, at times, against strong sides. We also came up against one or two fine players, especially strong batters whose individual brilliance changed games. There were some magic balls, excellent shots and phenomenal catches. Over the term I can think of Anderson catches at Taunton, Robson powerful shots at Millfield, reflex catches by Averis amongst others, run outs, numerous excellent balls bowling batsmen by Harder, Brunskill, Sims and Muggridge, and Brown playing some fine innings against stronger sides showing real ability. They have been a pleasure to coach as they have trained hard, taken on board advice and developed in character and performance. Winning the final game against Abingdon by six runs in 406 runs was a lovely end to the season, showing the development of their cricket. I hope they will continue to improve and enjoy the game as senior pupils.

Jay Gardner

U15C

In this team were a group of lads who encapsulated the very essence of what I believe sport to be about, including (but not limited to) dedication, commitment and, above all else, enjoyment. Though the season did not clock up as many wins as were deserved, some of the stand-out performances, attitudes of the boys and the (sole) fantastic win against ostensibly superior opposition left a far better afterglow than a group of clinical automatons clocking up efficient but soulless wins would.

The highlight of the season was an away fixture against Millfield. In the face of continual provocation and a volley of sledging from the opposition, Clifton College U15Cs behaved with dignity and decorum and, assisted by a maiden 50 from Dylan Lean and fantastically poised and mature captaining by Charlie Williams, the lads almost snatched a stunning away victory, only with it being missed by a window in the last over. I would like to say that victory was celebrated by the opposition with propriety. I would like to say that.

There were so many awesome moments from each and every player this term, be it goodhumoured (yet focused) hilarity in training to good-mannered sportsmanship and maturity during games. As much as it would have been lovely, and deserving, for there to be a little more representative success, ultimately, I was incredibly proud of all the players, who were an absolute pleasure to coach.

Dom Harris

U14A

The team’s results have been excellent: played 10, won nine, lost one, two washed out. On tour to Epsom, we played four, won four and picked up the Hobbs Trophy. The team also won the Area Cup Final, beating BGS in the final. The one game we lost was against Taunton where we switched off for a period of time. The U14As love their cricket, always in the nets working hard and practising their fielding. This showed in the results against Millfield, Marlborough, Bromsgrove, Bradfield, Abingdon, Oundle in the Hobbs Trophy Final, and BGS in the Area Cup Final.

Rhys Pollitt has been an excellent captain, leading from the front and working his magic on the team, ably assisted by vice captain Nik Choughule. Both boys have scored many runs. Rhys batted beautifully in the Hobbs final, making 69 and a breezy 61 against Bradfield. In the first game of the season, Nik took the Kingswood bowlers apart, scoring 106*. It wasn’t until we got on tour that we got number

7 into bat. Nik, Sam Kadaba, Rhys, Stan Sainsbury, George Charles-Price, Peter Biggs and Jack Baker scored important runs and had a massive impact on setting totals or winning games. On many occasions, Stan came in and battered the ball, playing quality cricket shots to all parts of the ground. Caspian Rugg did a good job behind the stumps. A brilliant catch against Millfield, standing up to Ollie Barlass to get their best batter, was a game-changer, as was a fantastic stumping off Barlass against Abingdon to get their opener out. Caspian batted up the order on tour and hit the ball beautifully, making 40 and 36. Our bowlers, Jack Baker, Peter Biggs, Josh Bray, Ollie Barlass, Ollie Sadler, Rhys Pollitt and Sam Kadaba all had a good season. Jack and Peter opened the bowling and often had batsmen in trouble with their pace and swing. Unfortunately, both got injured at different stages of the season and played as batters. Jack took four wickets against Ipswich on tour, bowling spin. Peter’s best bowling display was against BGS in the final when he steamed in and got a hat-trick. Josh, Ollie B, Ollie S and Rhys have been

solid, bowling line and length, nibbling it around, and picking up vital wickets all season. Ollie S took five wickets against Ardingly and was leading wickettaker, with 17. Josh B was on a hat-trick against Abingdon, but bowled it down the leg side. Josh also took three wickets in the final against BGS. Ollie B opened the bowling when Jack or Peter were injured and did a fantastic job. Sam’s leg spin bamboozled many batters and he was very good at breaking up good partnerships. When Rhys pitched it up he got a lot of batters in trouble, and he got it spot on against Millfield, picking up three wickets. By the end of the season, our fielding was slick. It won us the game against Oundle, getting four run outs. Their two gun players were back in the Pavilion with diving stops and good throws from Stan and Jack. Stan got the catch of the season against Bromsgrove; a tracer bullet was hit by their best player and Stan dived and caught it behind him with his left hand. The boys who stepped up from the Bs have played their part and the culture between the As and Bs has been excellent.

Reggie Williams and Ben Bates

U14B

The U14Bs had an enjoyable season, displaying great skill and teamwork. Through dedicated training, they developed a strong bond and exhibited moments of brilliance with both bat and ball in matches. A fondness for Kwik Cricket during training sessions may have contributed to their aggressive batting approach, which ultimately resulted in a few reckless run-outs in matches. Nonetheless, their enthusiasm for the sport brought an extra spark to their performance. Highlights from the season include Raf Trujillo’s impressive 4-17 against Millfield School and Arthur Toogood’s outstanding 5-15 against Bradfield School. These exceptional performances showcased the team’s talent and commitment. Well done to the team for their hard work, team spirit, and remarkable achievements. Thank you for representing the school with pride and determination.

Patrick Jones

U14C

This was a very enjoyable season with lots of boys playing, and, within each game, lots of individuals really getting stuck in. Matches were played with much enthusiasm and the boys really got on well with each other and enjoyed the cricket they played. Ashby Turner, Charlie Newman, Henry Downing and Dan Toomey led from the front and Tavey Appa and Nico Weston really progressed as the term went on. Win or lose, the boys gave it their all and played really well at times, with lots of development as they went. A fine season!

Nick Luker

Girls’ Cricket

1st XI

What a brilliant group of players; team spirit and support for each other was the real win of the season (not to mention the volleyball), and a credit to the whole squad! The players showed great dedication to developing their game in the Lent Term winter nets and many used the South Africa tour as a springboard into the season. The girls benefitted from the enhanced coaching team, which enabled smaller group development as well as specialists in batting and bowling.

The fixture list was bursting at the seams, with the growing weekly list as well as the U18 National Cup and 100-Ball competitions. After a couple of convincing wins and Jemima Smith scoring the first 50 of the season against Marlborough, the girls faced Millfield in the opening match of the 100-Ball national competition. This game was just one of the highlights, with fabulous cricket on display against some evenly-matched sides. Bea Willis scored 60* (with her second highest score 53* against Collegiate School) and Greer Barnes and Bella Herring took some fantastic catches to dismiss their opening batters off Bea’s bowling. The game literally went down to the last ball, where Millfield clinched the win.

The Close beckoned for the first match of the U18 National School Competition against Collegiate School. A confident start saw Grace Harwood take two for eight, and a cracking catch by Harriet Taylor off the bowling of Jemima Smith dismissed their most threatening batter. Our openers chased down the score comfortably. The squad achieved a convincing win against

Godolphin School, which led them to face Bradfield College where, despite some excellent wickets by Issy Maloney, Emily Murray and Jemima Smith, we were plagued with too many extras to take us through to the next round. The 100-Ball Plate came next, with an impressive win against BGS. Despite a thrilling match against Llandaff Cathedral, where Emily Murray opened and remained until the end with some incredibly experienced running, we could not match their score and fell short. Despite not winning, Katie Rayner managed to see off their number two batter with an impressive caught-and-bowled.

An important aspect of this season was to really grow depth and breadth in the squad. The Bradfield friendly was testament to this development, in which we welcomed five players from the U15s to the squad. Despite an impressive 80* by Bella Herring, and Jemima Thefaut taking the wicket of their opener, the girls did not secure the win, but the real victory was the learning and development of the squad and the more junior members.

Whilst a few highlights have been shared in this report, it is hard to sum up the most brilliant energy and team spirit present during every match and training session. The most thrilling news is that this season has helped them grow as a group and next season looks very bright indeed. I am looking forward to the first ‘roll call’ and volleyball warm up already!

Cricket Awards: Emily Murray - Dolman Cup; Bea Willis - Best Batter; Jemima SmithBest Bowler; and Georgie Simpson - Most Improved Player.

Sarah Johnson

U15A

The U15As had an impressive season, playing 11 games and winning six of these. Three of these wins contributed to the girls’ excellent run to the fourth round of the National Cup. Wins included a 35-run win over Monmouth, a thrilling 10-run victory over KES Bath and a 56-run win over King’s, Gloucester before falling to a very strong Bradfield College side. Stand out performers over the course of the season were Bella Herring and Mitzeeé Taylor-Tadhunter with the ball and Jemima Windows, Taylor Hodgson and Emilia Puddicombe with the bat.

Olly Keenan

U15B

The junior B team approached the cricket season with energy and a great sense of humour. We had a huge mix of abilities and cricketing experience, but all the girls trained determinedly each week and made significant improvements throughout the term. A special mention to Angel Tolchard for her catch of the season in our final match of the term, to Jodie Byas for always digging deep and motivating others with her team talks, and to Isabel Snowden for her unfailing positivity and moraleboosting presence. The team was a real delight to coach and I look forward to their continued success next season.

Lydia Hawkins

Tennis

March 2023

After successful matches in the Michaelmas Term, our senior boys’ and girls’ teams both made it through to the Regional Finals for the fourth consecutive year for the girls and the first for the boys. We travelled to Taunton on 16th March to meet three other teams to play in the semis, finals or 3rd/4th play-offs. The girls struggled in their semifinals against Exeter College, losing 5-1 but they managed to win their 3rd/4th play-off against Truro and Penwith College. Massive congratulations to Annie Nichols, Milly Thomas, Fleur Wagstaff and Helena Gruen. A strong performance for the boys in the semi-final saw off Bishops Wordsworth’s School. Our boys were then up against very capable Truro and Penwith College players in the final. Tom Rayson, Ollie Hunter, Fraser Davis, Simon Koupparis and Anton Boguslavskyi fought a tough battle but lost 4- 2, giving them a well deserved second place, which was still a great result.

Portugal Tennis Tour

Thirty players travelled to Vale de Lobo in March 2023 to attend a five-day intensive tennis training camp taught by professional coaches and ex-professional tennis players. The pupils endured strength and conditioning sessions to start the day, before being put through their paces on court with drills and competitive, strategical play. There were multiple opportunities to play against other schools and pupils of a similar standard as well as being introduced to the more delicate game of padel, with one main aim: to beat Mr Wagstaff! The pupils and staff had the most amazing time and were so well looked after by the Tennis Tour Company. Many battles on the tennis (and padel) courts left the players wanting more, so much so that the club had to turn the lights off every night to actually stop our children from playing! A great trip and I cannot wait to take the next crew of players in a couple of years!

Annual Mixed Doubles Tournament

This year’s Mixed Doubles Championship began a couple of weeks before half term with the finals played at Commem. Zane Assal and Heidi Cosway beat a stand-in partner and Freya Belford in the U14s, whilst Wilf Gemmill and Millie Smith claimed the U15 trophy over Jake Northover and Thea Milton, both matches being decided on a championship tie-break. In the senior event, Anton Boguslavskyi and Milly Thomas beat Archie Campbell and Fleur Wagstaff in a fabulous final on Chapel Court.

House Tennis

Boys’ and girls’ House Tennis is always an eagerly anticipated tournament. Every House was represented and some fiercely competitive games were played. The competition results were so much closer this year. Congratulations to Moberly’s and Holland’s House, taking the victory once again.

Eton ISTA Tennis Championships

Eton ISTA Championships took place over the Saturday, Sunday and, for some, Monday of the final weekend of the school year. With over 80 schools entering this tournament and approximately 90 pairs in each age category, there was plenty of tennis on offer! The junior girls saw 1st pair Carla Thuenken and Freya Belford finish third in their box, which took them through to a round-robin Plate Tournament. where they then finished second. 2nd pair Millie Smith and Thea Milton finished fifth in their box and fourth in the round-robin Plate Tournament The junior boys’ 1st pair Halbie Wagstaff and Zane Assal finished top in their box to go through to the main tournament. They beat the next two schools before eventually losing to Millfield’s No. 1 seeds in the quarter finals, finishing in the top eight of the competition. The 2nd pair combination of Jake Northover/Wilf Gemmil and Seb Bowen won their box, but lost to Eton’s 2nd pair in the first round of the knockout stages of the main tournament.

The senior boys’ team (Tom Rayson, Ollie Hunter, Fraser Davis, Finn Nunes, Simon Koupparis and Terry Song) lost to Harrow School and then to Hampton School in the first round of the Plate. Boys, it has been an honour to work with you over the years. The senior girls’ 1st pair Annie Nichols and Sophie Houghton finished second in their box, which took them through to the Plate knockout stages where Fleur Wagstaff stepped in for Annie on the Monday. Fleur and Sophie won their first match to take them through to the last eight of the Plate competition, where they lost on a championship tiebreak to Rugby School. The 2nd pair combination of Jessie Auty/ Milly Thomas and Fleur Wagstaff finished third in their box and went on to finish second in the Plate box.

Kerris Wagstaff

Director of Tennis

Senior Girls

Girls’ senior tennis was strong in numbers, performances and victories. Players were able to adapt to changing pairings and playing competitive doubles; 13, 18 and 19 girls represented the 1st, 2nd and 3rd teams respectively. The 1st team, captained by Jessie Auty, had great wins over Bromsgrove and Sherborne. The 2nd team won matches with their number one pairing of Jess MacKenzie and Ruth Pleister, but when they were promoted to the 1st team, wins were hard to come by. The 3rds had a huge win over Bromsgrove but only had a few more matches as other schools were not able to raise teams. With the majority of the girls in the Lower Sixth and many talented players in the Fifth Form, next year’s squad will remain strong and full of promise.

Andrew Wagstaff

Senior Boys

The 1st, 2nd and 3rd teams were out in force over the Summer Term. We had weekly fixtures that saw us dominate with some significant victories. This has certainly been the strongest Clifton College Senior squad for over a decade. A depth of quality in the squad was key and it was only achieved by some outstanding coaching that had

been delivered by Mrs Wagstaff. Some of the boys have been with her since prep school. Consequently, we had some outstanding results and rather delightful sunny Saturdays. No boys’ names appear in this report due to the fact it was a squad effort to achieve this success. Therefore, I just want to thank all the boys for their efforts over the term.

Noel Doran

Girls’ Team Tennis

Our U15 girls’ team consisted of Freya Belford, Carla Thuenken, Thea Milton, Lottie Whately and Sophia Lam. They finished second in their box, just missing out on reaching the county play-offs.

Girls’ U15A/B/C

There were many block fixtures as well as the Team Tennis competition for the U15s. Congratulations to Thea Milton, Millie Smith and Carla Thuenken who all participated in the Team Tennis fixtures, beating Royal High School convincingly and playing competitive fixtures against Redmaids’ and Badminton. The block fixtures were tough and the U15As just missed out on an overall win against Kingswood, but the U15Bs were able to beat them, adding to their fantastic win against Bromsgrove. A highlight for our U15C team was beating Dean Close 8-1. Across the team many pupils played in the A, B and C team and many of the Development players stepped up to play their first fixtures! Kirsty Willis

Girls’ U14A/B/C

The U14s played in a number of block fixtures this year and always participated with enthusiasm and charisma. The only win for the As came in the first match against Bromsgrove, but the Bs managed to secure one more win over Dean Close. Despite it not being the most successful season, the matches were often a lot closer than the scoreline suggested, and the pupils have developed some invaluable skills in technique and communication. The player of the season would have to be Freya Belford who stepped up to play in the Team Tennis matches, as well as being a committed player for the first pair of the As. Thank you to all who dedicated their time to play this season.

Grace Ball

Boys’ Team Tennis

Two teams of the top 4/5 boys from the U15 and U14s were entered into the National Team Tennis Competition. Our U15A and B teams won all matches in their equivalent boxes against all the other schools from around Bristol and Bath. Congratulations to Halbie Wagstaff, Zane Assal, Adam Wyatt, Wilf Gemmill, Seb Bowen, Jake Northover, Plato Lam, Oz Gispan and Ben Ross.

Boys’ U15A/B/C

With the bulk of the U15 boys’ tennis coming in the Team Tennis competition, this was mainly a season of intra-school battles on the court. A fiercelyfought singles tournament was the highlight for some, with

newcomer Andy Ku taking it to a championship tie-break against established team player Michael Yang in the first round. Noah Vorenkamp Beriro’s first ever season of tennis got off to a strong start: paired with Jake Northover as the B team 1st pair against Bromsgrove, they went unbeaten all season; and Noah later beat Jake in a singles match. In the intra-school singles tournament, Noah was devastated to have to play one of the players of the year, Adam Wyatt, in the first round; little did he know that Adam was nursing a left hand injury and any heavy ball to his backhand side would have been weakly returned. Plato, however, knew this and easily dispatched Adam, making it to the final against Wilfred Gemmill who had beaten Halbie Wagstaff (a right hander, who was playing left handed).

Stephen Cross

“Our U15A and B teams won all matches in their equivalent boxes against all the other schools from around Bristol and Bath.”

Boys’ U14A/B/C

The majority of the fixtures for the U14 boys took the shape of Team Tennis matches. We did, however, manage to play in a few block fixtures against other schools. The highlight of the season was the match against Marlborough, where it came down to the last set of the match, with Rafi Nunes hitting the winning shot to win the match for the A Team (5-4) - Oz Gispan and Zane Assal didn’t drop a single set. There was similar success against Taunton with a 7-2 win, our first pair this time came away without dropping a single game! The usual dates in the calendar against Bromsgrove and Malvern unfortunately didn’t go ahead, so we will have to wait until next season to see how we fare. Thank you to all those who dedicated their time to the A, B and C teams this season.

Max Ernest-Jones and Matt Allen

AthleticsBasketball

It has been another fantastic season for the athletics squad, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the enthusiasm and commitment shown by all the athletes. The group has trained hard, and taken part in a variety of relays, events and competitions. We have competed in three different fixtures, including the Nitro Athletics tournament at Marlborough, and two more traditional fixtures at Millfield and Marlborough. In each of these meets, many of our athletes have achieved podium positions, beating strong opposition, and often racing in categories above their actual age group. The Avon Schools Championships did not go ahead, but two of our athletes qualified for the South-West Schools Championships on the back of their club performances.

Clemmie Houlden competed in the 800m, and Joshua Schrijver in the discus and shot put. The students have also taken part in weekly training sessions at WISE Campus, Filton on their competition-standard athletics track, which has been used by many great Olympians in the past. They have visited the National Indoor Athletics Centre track in Cardiff, where the squad spent the afternoon using the worldclass facilities to help supplement their training programmes.

Special mention goes to Clemmie Houlden and Joshua Schrijver who both qualified for the English Schools Championships by winning their events at the South-West Schools Championships. In the qualifying competition, Clemmie produced a new PB in the 800m, and Josh won the discus and shot put events for the ninth year in a row. We look forward to another successful season next year!

Emma Kenyon Head of Athletics and Cross Country

“It has been another fantastic season for the athletics squad, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the enthusiasm and commitment shown by all the athletes.”

Basketball has gone from strength to strength. We had a really successful year, winning seven out of 11 fixtures. The players had to adapt to playing as a team as most of the experience was playing 3v3, halfcourt. They also had to adapt to the speed of a full court game as well as building trust in their teammates to execute plays on offence and work as a unit on defence. Mitch Turner and Oscar Wang stepped up in their leadership, with Angus Lam showing huge improvement in his own game as well as his ability to read a game. The team did well and we look forward to growing and welcoming new players next year.

Arnold Lobo Head of Basketball

“Basketball has gone from strength to strength.”

Cross Country

This year we welcomed several new joiners into the cross country group and thoroughly enjoyed introducing them to some of our beautiful routes through the surrounding countryside. We pushed the group to their limits at times, and regulars amongst the pack would have covered over 100 miles across the course of the term. Particular highlights were Flax Bourton, Ashton Gate, Dolebury Warren, and the affectionately named ‘Dundry Death Run,’ a nine-mile route running back into school from Winford. We finished the season with a run in the Blaise Estate

in glorious sunshine, with river jumping to celebrate the end of an amazing term. This year we introduced the Ashton Court Parkrun into our schedule and our runners achieved some phenomenal placings and times. Special mention goes to: Jonathan Ambler for his personal best of 18:44, coming first in his age category; Piers de Voil, achieving a time of 20:54, a personal best for him, and first in his age category; and Sophia Jeffery, also winning her age category and achieving third fastest female, with a time of 21:15 - not bad for her first ever Parkrun!

“We pushed the group to their limits at times, and regulars amongst the pack would have covered over 100 miles across the course of the term.”

On 16th March, the whole school took part in the annual crosscountry event, The Pens. Yet again, the event, atmosphere and support from the staff and spectators quickly allayed the competitors’ fears and it was a wonderful afternoon. Congratulations to the following winners.

Emma Kenyon

Boys’ Long Pen: Jonathan Ambler

Girls’ Long Pen: Charlotte Warren

Boys’ Mid Pen: Halbie Wagstaff

Girls’ Mid Pen: Sophia Jeffery

Boys’ Short Pen: Jock Calder & Nathan Daniel

Girls’ Short Pen: Ellie Weston

Golf

It has been another extremely successful year for the school golf team. The team qualified for the Independent Schools National Finals for the third consecutive year, becoming South West regional champions along the way. Finn Ellis, Taylor Hodgson and Harry Kennedy managed wins against Stonar, Marlborough, King Edward’s Oxford and Radley to reach the finals at the beautiful Slaley Hall course in Newcastle. The team did well to battle snow and hail storms and finish 10th out of the 20 schools participating, improving on 14th and 11th positions in the previous two years.

Taylor Hodgson also won the Gloucestershire Girls Under 18s and 16s titles for the second time at Broadway Golf Club.

Taylor shot her first competitive round under par to take the title. This was an amazing achievement to be County Girls’ Champion twice and still have three years left to play in it. Congratulations, Taylor.

More than 50 pupils over the past year have joined the school’s recreational golf group. As their sports choice, the pupils gain access to coaching, use of the driving range and the Par 3 course at The Bristol Golf Club. There have been some fantastic success stories, with pupils going from never having hit a ball to achieving a handicap in four months! My thanks go to Mr Bobby, Mr Dean and Mr Mather for their help over the year.

Andy Rudge Head of Golf

“This was an amazing achievement to be County Girls’ Champion twice and still have three years left to play in it. Congratulations, Taylor.”

Rackets

Clifton had a full fixture list and continued to see a steady number of players. It has been a productive year, and while results didn’t always go our way, the level of play was impressive to watch. Marcus Allan and Archie Campbell (and Elliott Watkins in the Lent Term as Marcus had quite a few hockey commitments) as 1st pair competed admirably.

The boys improved their game throughout the season and always kept positive when

results were going against them. Marcus captained the squad and did a fantastic job. Archie Campbell did really well in the singles at Queen’s, reaching the quarter finals. He also took part in a 12-hour sponsored rackets rally against OC players on 17th March, which raised over £2000 for Hooke Court in Malawi - a brilliant achievement.

Simon Koupparis and Joe Naughton as 2nd pair enjoyed a steady season, claiming some hard-fought matches against

tough opposition. The Colts and Junior Colts had mixed fortunes. Zaman Shafi, Alfie Moloney, Sai Kollaredy, Nathan Phillips, Halbie Wagstaff and Mac Isaacs worked at their game and practised well. The Yearlings were made up of talented, competitive players, including Caspian Rugg, Raf Trujillo, Oz Gispan, Daniel Toomey, Josh Bray, Magnus Hammond and Archie Inch. Girls’ rackets saw some good battles throughout the year. The Seniors - Mor Gispan, Sveva Roma, Izzy

Maloney, Greer Barnes and Bea Willis - and the Juniors - Jemima Windows, Harriet Taylor, Emilia Puddicombe, Aggy Campbell, Georgia Grey, Bella Herring and Sophie Murray - were all committed to the game.

The Windows Trophy was won by Archie Campbell; Halbie Wagstaff won the Inverdale Cup; and Mor Gispan won the Beale Board Trophy.

Reggie Williams Head of Rackets

Rowing

Rowing is sometimes considered one of the toughest sports. As soon as the race starts, there are no pauses, no chance to catch your breath, no substitutions, no stopping. It calls upon the limit of your endurance. It is with this approach that all those who have trained and raced for the College this year should be applauded for their effort to collectively support and race with each other. This year’s training started with a new first: rowing was permitted for six committed athletes in the Michaelmas Term as they looked to hone and develop both their fitness in the gym and technique on the water in small boats. We were able to attend Monkton Bluefriars Head where, despite the nervousness of racing in a collection of singles and doubles, it was great to see Clifton College Boat Club doing so for the first time.

We aimed to build on last year’s performance at the Schools’ Head. We were fortunate to run an eight for the second year

running. Maya von Lilienfeld-Toal blazed a path for girls’ rowing by deservedly securing a place in the boat alongside Henry Packham, Marcus Whittley, Mac Jenkins, James Gillham, Philip Clark, Harry Huby, Harry Byett and cox Izzy Copeland. The boat charged down the Tideway Course on a challenging day and it was a fantastic sight to see them racing down the Championship Course. This success was followed by more firsts: two quad sculls were able to enter the Scullery at the Olympic lake in Dorney, both racing at J16 level for both a boys’ and girls’ crew. The girls’ crew (Poppy Janke, Ishbel Bird, Aimee Miles and Louisa Hall) put in a strong performance and learnt a great deal whilst the boys’ crew (Damian Gruebner, Edoardo Giovarruscio, Ronnie BucknellBrady and James Packham) again rowed successfully against some very quick competition.

The regatta season was in full swing when we returned from the Easter break. Evesham provided

early success; a J16 coxed four (Marcus Whittley, Josh Hogwood, Edoardo Giovarruscio, Henry Packham and cox Amelia Lucas) caused some controversy by beating the Clifton J18 crew in the J18 event and winning overall. Avon County Regatta came next, and whilst no overall wins were recorded, Clifton boats did make the finals of the J16 4+, WJ16 2x and the J16 1x events. With the older rowers focusing on their exams, the younger J15 crews had a chance to shine at Stratfordupon-Avon Regatta. The star of the day was Louisa Hall who raced superbly to win the WJ15 1x event, battling well through three rounds of racing. Other highlights were seeing Amelia Lucas swap the coxing seat for the bow seat of a double with Victoria Cambour, and Damian Gruebner taking on all comers in the J16 1x event. This confidence in small boats has really grown over the course of the year and hopefully will enable some stronger crews to develop.

The final event of the year was held by Avon County Rowing Club with a fun set of Midsummer Madness races. Here, crews were pitted against other local crews in an atmosphere of camaraderie. Though it has been a challenging

yearattimes,everyonewhohas beeninaboatforCliftonshould becommendedfortheirpositive andinclusiveattitude.Attheriver, everyonehelps,supportsand praisesoneanothersothatwe cangetthebestfromeveryone. Withouttheunfailingsupportof thecoachingteam,thiswould notbepossible.ThanksgotoMr Marchesi,MissLynch,MrsWest, MrsWalsh,andMissHicks.The captainteam-PhilipClark,Harry Huby,EvieCalhaemandIzzy Copeland-certainlyledfromthe front.Itwillbeabiglosstothe clubasthisgroupmovesonto university.Theirpresence,both onandoffthewater,has continuedtopusheveryone forward.

The2023/4seasonbringsmuch excitement;averygenerous donationfromanOChasmeant wehavebeenabletopurchase fournewboats,andanew academictimetablecouldmean thatrowingwillbeaccessibleto agreaternumberofstudents WelldonetoallofCCBCforyour positive,fun,engagedattitude; youhaveallmadetimeatthe rivergreatfunandafantastic placetobe.

RobBeever HeadofRowing

Sailing

A group of around 30 pupils have been enjoying getting on the water this year, with competitions taking place each term. The performances of the year came from the U16s who followed up a second place at the Western Regional Championships with some good sailing at the National Finals to end the year in 11th place. The pairing of Fergus Brown and Lasse Hallm led the team well and they have worked hard throughout the season.

The standard of sailing across the senior squad has continued to improve, and with the majority of a young 1st and 2nd

team returning next year, the future certainly looks bright. Highlights for the senior teams include some good wins against university-level squads at the Bath University Open Regatta, and finishing as the second school team at the National Youth 12-Hour Endurance Race in challenging conditions.

Thanks go to Joe Collins for being a fantastic captain of the Sailing Club, as well as to Ms Duffy and Mr Lewis for their passion and commitment to Clifton’s sailing programme.

Jim Rosser Head of Sailing

The Fencing team has had an excellent year with good representation at several national events. Stella Pikhulya has been a fantastic coach over the three terms and has helped welcome many new members to the club. Clifton College attended the British Youth Championships in Sheffield, an event for which we have not qualified in recent years. Here, Julius Diem achieved 16th in Sabre and 30th in Foil; and Stella won an eighth place medal in Sabre. The Public Schools’ Fencing Championships also resulted in all participants reaching the direct elimination stage in at least one of the weapons. We hope to continue these successes next year with our two captains, Julius Diem and Ethan Thompson.

Sammy Palmer Head of Fencing

Fencing Water Polo

This year saw a return of competitive fixtures, with Clifton able to put forward a strong mixed U18 team. There were matches against Clifton High, Marlborough College, Sherborne and Abingdon. Particular highlights were wins against Marlborough (2-0) and Sherborne (5-4). Our top scorers across the season were Solly Scott, Philip Clark and Sam Puri. Sam Bailey stood out as most valuable player of the season and Hannah Jones as the most improved player. Makar Poleshchuk as goalkeeper continued to be integral to our solid defence. In the House water polo competition, Wiseman’s were victorious in both the senior and junior competition, Oakeley’s claimed victory for the junior girls, and Holland’s won the senior girls’ competition.

Helen Evans Head of Water

Polo

Valete

Paul Askew

Paul arrived at Clifton in 2002 from Magdalen College School, Oxford. He was appointed as the first Director of Sport and it would be fair to say that the early years presented something of a challenge. Sport at Clifton did not look like it does now and Paul started the transition from mediocrity to excellence. This process began with the appointment of a Head of Games for both boys and girls and the move towards employing more specialist coaching staff. In 2004, the first sports scholars arrived at the College, one boy and one girl, and over the ensuing years the scholarship programme developed under the watchful guidance and expertise of Paul. College sport, for both boys and girls, began to gain a national profile largely because of Paul’s foresight and ambition. For over a decade, he ran the 1st XV rugby and in many of these years Paul

developed a team spirit that resulted in extremely successful Clifton teams. Paul looked after exciting overseas tours where long-lasting memories of amazing experiences will still hold fresh in the minds of those who were lucky enough to be involved. In his later years at Clifton, Paul moved from sport into the Admissions Department, where he continued to spread the word of Clifton’s sporting success and he was responsible for creating excellent relationships with many of Clifton’s key feeder prep schools. Clifton sport can be thankful for the important role that Paul played in getting sport to the position it is in now, from an embryonic beginning to a school that is now a major player on the games field, where many have the opportunity to go on to a career in professional sport.

Andrew Wagstaff

Maria Bitschnau

Maria joined the MFL Department in September 2022, as a teacher of German and Assistant in Holland’s House. Maria immediately got involved in lots of German events: she supported the German Film Night, the German Bake Off, Gingerbread House Making and the annual German Easter Egg Hunt. She was a huge help in accompanying the trip to Berlin and helped book the German Parliament tour. Maria also helped to run a series of interschool German debates. Inside the classroom the students have appreciated her friendly, supportive manner and her native-speaker language has been a great help for exam classes in particular. I frequently hear happy laughter coming down the corridor, emanating from ML25. In Holland’s House, Maria is described as utterly delightful and wonderful to work with. The pupils in the House immediately warmed to her and speak so highly of her. Maria’s calm, thoughtful approach has gone a long way in supporting pupils in Holland’s. In her cocurricular commitment, Maria is described as ‘an absolute sweetie’ and as someone who is always willing to help. Maria quickly made friends in the MFL team and across the College and we will all miss her. She leaves Clifton to work in education in Austria within a pastoral role and we wish her well.

Owen Lewis

Arriving at Clifton as a secondyear ECT maternity cover, Hannah Clark has been an incredible addition to the History Department this year. Joining us from the state sector, she has taken on the challenges of new A Levels, new co-curricular demands and new boarding duties with equal aplomb. Her impact has been felt across the school outside of her contributions to the history and politics classrooms, from coaching hockey and swimming, to supporting the girls in Worcester House with a great sense of humour. In what has been an all-too-fleeting tenure at Clifton, it has been lovely to see Hannah grow into a formidable teacher, and we are certain she will continue to make a splash at Ashton Park School from September 2023.

Sinéad Lynch

“In 2004, the first sports scholars arrived at the College, one boy and one girl, and over the ensuing years the scholarship programme developed under the watchful guidance and expertise of Paul.”

Hannah Clark

Stephen Cross

Stephen joined Clifton in 2016, straight from teacher training. Already an excellent mathematician, over his time at Clifton he has become a first-class practitioner who habitually questions, reviews and adjusts his pedagogical approach. He believes strongly in pupils making their own mathematical discoveries and has become a master in posing thought-provoking questions to enhance his students’ learning. He creates a purposeful and collaborative classroom environment and develops excellent relationships with all of the pupils under his charge. During his time at Clifton he took on the role of second in department during a maternity cover and has acted as a subject mentor for PGCE students. In 2019 Stephen joined Wiseman’s as Assistant Housemaster and very quickly proved himself to be an extraordinarily able and dedicated colleague as well as someone to

Louise Comer

Louise joined Clifton in September 2019, having been a part of the Commercial Finance Team at OVO Energy, and quickly became a valued colleague and friend. Louise immediately threw herself into teaching within the Business and Economics Departments, bringing her lessons to life with her wealth of business expertise from a career that, up until that point, had been in the financial sector. Over the next three and a half years she expanded her teaching into all areas of the two departments: GCSE, A Level and BTEC Business; IGCSE Economics; A Level Micro- and Macroeconomics, and Fifth Form Enterprise. Louise stepped in to arrange and lead trips, most notably a Future’s Week excursion to Legoland, ran weekly clinics and supervised extended projects on topics relating, rather tenuously at times, to her two subjects. Outside of business and economics, Louise was a much-valued tutor in East Town and a key member of the Friday activity yoga group. Looking back, it is astonishing how much Louise contributed to the College in such a small space of

time, academically, pastorally and to the co-curriculum. It is good to see that she has moved on to take much more of a lead in the economics teaching at Redmaids’ High School and to see her thriving there. We wish her all the very best for the future.

Graham Mallard

Adam Dixon

Adam joined the College as Director of Hockey off the back of captaining Great Britain at the Tokyo Olympics. Adam brought with him a wealth of playing experience with 290 caps for England and GB combined. Adam moved to Clifton with his wife Lettie and son Raf and established themselves very quickly into the Clifton College community. Adam’s energy and enthusiasm for hockey was infectious amongst the pupils and staff. After a year at the College, Adam took an opportunity to continue his playing career at Rotterdam Hockey Club whilst continuing his role at Clifton in the Lent Term. At the start of the Lent Term Adam and Lettie welcomed the arrival of their second son, Sonny. Adam leaves us to take on

whom the boys immediately warmed. Stephen’s time in Wiseman’s came at a tumultuous period in the College’s history and within only months of his arrival, the House underwent a two-week period of quarantine after a Wiseman’s boy tested positive for Covid. During this difficult time, Stephen proved to be an absolutely outstanding colleague and continued to deliver the very highest standards of pastoral care despite considerable risk to himself. The kind, gentle assertiveness he displayed in all his daily encounters and interactions with the pupils made him highly respected and revered both as a teacher of maths and as an Assistant Housemaster and someone who will be difficult to replace. We wish Stephen, his partner Charlotte and recent arrival, baby Rafe, all the happiness in the world as they embark upon the next exciting chapter of their lives together.

the Director of Hockey position at Repton College. We wish Adam all the best of luck in the future, except when he plays against Clifton in the National Finals.

Stu Loughrey

Toni Duffy

Toni joined the school in 2019 from the Piggott School in Reading and has demonstrated an enthusiastic teaching approach in biology, with a real passion towards ‘directed improvement and reflection time.’ Creating opportunities for independent work have helped to shape pupil progress and foster learning, both in and

outside of the classroom. Toni has orchestrated and developed the school’s Extended Project Qualification programme, enabling pupils to gain an increased skill set to help at university and beyond. This additional qualification has increased in popularity within the Lower Sixth, which is a testament to Toni’s methodical hard work and dedication. She has been a reliable member of staff and very quick to get involved in Clifton life. Toni has been a residential tutor in School House, in addition to an assistant housemistress in Hallward’s, looking after the pupils in her charge and encouraging House spirit by organising various trips. Toni has also helped to deliver the CCF RAF programme and enjoys sailing, taking pupils to various competitions throughout the year, which has helped to boost their mental health and wellbeing. Toni has now decided to take a career break, participating in a public health internship in Ghana, in addition to lots of travelling. We certainly wish her the very best for the future.

Mal Grohmann

Helen Evans

Owen Lewis

Owen joined Clifton in 2005, with master’s degrees from both Oxford and Bristol and experience teaching in Kenya, Nailsea and Grenville College, Devon. If there was one word that might sum Owen up, it would be ‘wholehearted’: Clifton is losing a massively dedicated teacher; in early and home late and never stinting on effort.

Countless individuals can thank him for transformational encouragement: in the classroom; in the Houses, where he has served as a tutor, latterly in The South Town; and in the sailing activity, the profile of which he raised considerably. Many will also remember his language trips to Berlin, the Rhineland and to Paris.

Owen prepares for each class afresh. Instead of reusing last year’s lesson, he will create new material tailored to the ability and character of the students in front of him. He is thus outstandingly versatile, intellectually rigorous with Oxbridge candidates, rich in imagination and humour with the less able, and always gets the right balance in between.

As Head of Department he has led countless sessions on innovative and imaginative techniques to help students

Graham Mallard

overcome the hurdles of the German case system, French festivals or Spanish verbs. The department has always had a lively vibe, the corridors reverberating to the sounds of Rammstein, Schubert, or Christine and the Queens. He has been an outstanding Head of German for 17 years and Head of Languages for six. He can take the credit for building up a thriving German Department at a time when the language has disappeared elsewhere, and he has promoted languages tirelessly, with events with the Pre, debates against other schools, and outreach with Ashton Gate Primary School.

Very much a people person, he has always given his time generously, when consulting with colleagues or mentoring young teachers. He has always made the effort to relate to colleagues on their terms, and has given warm support on many occasions. Not surprisingly, then, he has made many friends in and beyond the department, including our valuable Language Assistants, leading many adventures in the Black Mountains and the Brecon Beacons (or Bannau Brycheiniog as we now call them).

Clifton will miss Owen very much as he leaves to teach at Stroud High School.

Géraldine Maringo

It is with a heavy heart that we say farewell to Graham. As Head of Economics he has driven forward the department, ensuring the highest quality of provision across the top two floors of the Coulson Centre. The department has inspired a number of pupils to pursue economics or similar degrees, testament to their enjoyment of the subject itself but also the way it is taught. He introduced the Extended Project Qualification at Clifton, starting with just a single candidate and now growing to over 50 submissions per year. More recently, in his role as Assistant Head Academic, he has worked hard to improve the academic life of the College, relaunching the scholarship programme and adding significant value to the academic enrichment opportunities available to all pupils. What sits behind all of this progress is a man with exceptionally

high personal standards and an impressive work ethic, and who is arguably the most polite and kind person I have met. He has an intrinsic love of learning, shown through his ongoing engagement with academic study, with Summer Term 2023 seeing the publication of his sixth book focusing on pedagogy and classroom practice. Outside of the classroom, he has led the Chess Club and the Wharton

Investment Challenge, both of which have seen significant growth in pupil engagement. He has also been a valued member of the East Town House team, and is a reliable and conscientious tutor. Given his personal and professional qualities, it is no surprise that he has been promoted to Deputy Head Academic at Taunton School, and our loss is very much their gain. He will be superb in this role, and I know that I speak for everyone when I say that he will be greatly missed. Thank you for everything, Graham; our best wishes go with you.

Gavin Turner

Megan Lane

Megan joined the Learning Support Department in the Upper School in November 2022 as a one-to-one teaching assistant, having recently obtained a first class degree in Education from Durham University. She quickly expanded her role to include being a resident tutor and a Year 10 tutor. Her calm, measured approach was clear from the start as she rose to the challenge of supporting a pupil who was joining the school partway through the year. She quickly developed a reassuring, supportive professional relationship with the pupil and their parents, showing a maturity beyond her years. She has proved to be enthusiastic, accommodating and a valued member of the department. Alongside her busy role within the school, Megan has joined the Prep School Chapel Choir and has found time to tread the boards with the Bristol Music Comedy Club whilst continuing with her commitments to volunteering. Megan leaves us to take on a new challenge working in Human Resources for Lloyds Bank. We wish her every success in the future and know that she will thrive in her new role.

Daisy King

and

Kate Dodd

Jo Marsden

Jo joined Clifton as Head of PSHE, Year 10 Senior Tutor and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead in 2022, bringing with her a wealth of pastoral experience from having held pastoral leadership roles in her previous posts, most recently at Redmaids’ High School. It soon became clear how much the school would benefit from her expertise and Jo has made a huge impact on the PSHE curriculum and has led successful booster mornings across the Upper School. The Year 10 tutor programme has evolved to include wellbeing, mental health and revision skills, which has effectively supported the newly implemented mixed tutor group structure. Jo has also been a valuable addition to the Business Department team where she has taught A Level and BTEC Business. In addition, Jo has overseen Tycoon in Schools, part of the Sixth Form Enterprise enrichment programme, where she supported students to

develop their own businesses and compete in a national competition. Her positive attitude and sense of humour will be missed, as will her wealth of subject knowledge and her ability to engender a passion for business and PSHE in her students. As a tutor in School House, she has consistently looked after the boys’ welfare and has fully supported the students in both their academic and co-curricular activities. She has enjoyed her time at Clifton and has formed many lasting friendships. Jo is leaving to take a teaching only position in QEH School, which will enable her to continue with her passion of teaching business whilst enabling her to devote more time to her family. Jo has three young children who are all excelling in various sports and this new role will give her more time to support them with their endeavours.

Eleanor Jenkins

“She has enjoyed her time at Clifton and has formed many lasting friendships.”

Remy Poland

Dr Remy Poland joined the Biology Department in September 2010, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge and experience from her research background and time directing Natural Sciences at Cambridge. The students are inspired by her passionate and engaging lessons; she likes biology to come alive so she incorporates lots of practical work and innovative ideas to engage students, such as her infamous immune system role play. Remy’s enthusiasm for learning, however, extends far beyond the classroom. She has run challenging sessions for our Oxbridge students and her guidance has helped several students with successful applications. She has engaged our most enthusiastic students with Biology Club, in which she has dissected many interesting organisms such as squid, frog, and owl pellets, to name a few. She instigated our participation in the Festival of Nature at Bristol Harbourside and inspired many local people with her displays. She organised trips to Madagascar and Mexico with Operation Wallacea and took groups of biology students to broaden their biological horizons on the other side of the world. Her enthusiasm for biology is infectious and so many of our students and staff have benefitted from this passion.

Remy was Head of the Biology Department from 2013 to 2016 and, once again, her enthusiasm shone through. Remy made a partnership with Bristol University Ambassadors Scheme and hosted university students in our lessons and they reciprocated by allowing our students to experience real life science in their physiology laboratories. She has encouraged students to participate in the British Biology Olympiad and engaged our Upper Sixth with the now annual CSI event. Alongside these initiatives, she has given scientific lectures and contributed to biological events such as Bioblitz in the wider community, to great acclaim. Most recently, she gave her lecture ‘Gender and Sexual Diversity in the Animal Kingdom.’ Remy has been a valued tutor, initially in Oakeley’s, but latterly in East Town where she has supported students with skill and empathy.

Remy has worked part-time for a number of years and is moving on to Clifton High School to take up a full-time position in their Biology Department. Remy will bring the same vibrancy and zest for biology to Clifton High that she has to Clifton and they are very lucky to have such a talented and inspiring teacher joining them.

Jen Wood

Dan Robson

Dan joined the Clifton Music Department in 2010 as Assistant Director of Music. He came with a first-class degree in music from Oxford University (where he was also a choral scholar at Magdalen College), via a PGCE and teaching post at London Oratory School.

At Clifton, Dan quickly established himself as lead practitioner in all matters vocal, not only directing the chamber choir, and as a wonderful singing teacher, but most notably as MD of the annual school musical in partnership first with Director of Drama Karen Pickles and latterly her successor Rhian Orzel. His opening production, Les Misérables, set the bar incredibly high, with a compelling deployment of voices both in chorus and solo numbers, and this quality continued through successive years, including Evita, Miss Saigon, Phantom of the Opera, Guys and Dolls and (twice) Chicago, with several productions in contention for region-wide prizes. He has also championed the use of outstanding musician pupils both in and leading the pit band.

“Dan maintained the morale of the whole staff through his much-loved ‘Garden

Shed’ Congers

videos”

With the move of James Hills from Director of Music to Housemaster of The South Town in 2012, Dan took on the reins as Head of Department. In command of the Chapel Choir since then, and latterly also of the Prep School Choir, Dan has maintained a very high quality of chapel service music throughout each year, fighting tirelessly to ring-fence more contact time with choirs in sectionals and full rehearsals. A major flowering of this has been the March Joint Choirs Concert, spearheaded initially in conjunction with David Pafford, directing cross-College performances of major choral works with orchestra, often enhanced by stunning visuals. Standing out were Jenkins’ The Armed Man, Mozart’s Requiem, and most recently and impressively Rutter’s Feel the Spirit and Vaughan Williams’s Five Mystical Songs with all vocal solo roles taken by pupils. His compositions have been heard both in services and on the 2018 CD This is the Chapel recorded by Regent Records, which featured his anthem setting of Newbolt’s famous poem of the same name, and which has established itself as a College classic utilised both at Remembrance and Commem services.

In academic teaching Dan has overseen the expansion of the department to include BTEC Music Technology, and the implementation of new GCSE and A Level syllabuses, all enhanced by his own work and insights as an external examiner. Through Covid, Dan maintained the morale of the whole staff through his much-loved ‘Garden Shed’ Congers videos, and seized the opportunity to resume live-music making as soon as possible in late 2020. Maximising the licence given to schools under the often baffling guidance, this enabled streamed choral services and concerts to resume earlier than many other schools, and some of the recordings made since have reached higher standards than ever before seen. Amongst Dan’s more controversial Covid-time innovations was the Eurovisionstyle pupil voting system for the 2021 Partsong competition, which had both its critics and its equally ardent supporters (not least the Wiseman’s House victors).

In his first years, Dan also served as Assistant Housemaster for Moberly’s, though latterly his concern for the pastoral life of the College has focused on his significant role of head NEU Union Representative, acting on behalf of the Common Room and VMTs alike with a sensitivity combined with robustness in all manner of negotiations as the school has modernised its processes.

Under his aegis as Director of Music there has been a wonderful series of pupil successes with vocal, choral and instrumental scholarships won to the Royal College of Music, Cambridge and Oxford, and Royal Holloway, and a very high standard of performances and exam results at all ages and levels. Choral trips he has led to cathedrals, Oxbridge colleges and, in 2023, to Venice and Padua, have expanded pupil horizons and ambitions. Most importantly, the Music Department has consolidated its position as a place where the pupils feel a sense both of refuge, and also of a space open for creative collaboration and social encounters throughout the school day - the foyer sofa, which Dan was insistent on restoring, playing a key role!

In the world beyond Mem Arch, Dan has been in great demand as a baritone of finest quality, serving a stint as a lay clerk at Bristol Cathedral, where his precenting was a model of expression, tone and clarity; and also as a soloist for oratorios around the region with many different choirs. Dan moves on to become Director of Music at Mount Kelly School in Devon, closer to the family of his wife Lisa, and where he looks forward to indulging some of his spare time in cycling and fly-fishing on Dartmoor.

James Drinkwater

Sarah Tadros

Sarah joined Clifton to teach physics in September 2022, having previously worked in London and Egypt. She is a teacher who genuinely cares for her students and will always put them first to ensure they are supported academically and pastorally, all the time making sure they enjoy their lessons with her. She has been a hugely valuable member of the Physics Department, and despite only being here for a year, she has made a lasting impact. Sarah has contributed significantly to the development of the department with her wonderfully designed Physicist of the Week postcards and her revamping of the department’s EDIB displays. Beyond the boundaries of her classroom, Sarah is a popular member of our community, especially in Oakeley’s House where she has been a tutor. With her fondness for the outdoors and environmental issues, Sarah has helped nurture the newest generation of conservationists with her work in the Environmental Group, including taking students to the BANES Youth Climate Conference 2023, and even making elderflower cordial with them in the Summer Term!

Sarah leaves us to work at Montpelier High School, starting in September 2023 after walking part of the South West Coast Path. We would like to thank Sarah for all of her hard work and dedication to Clifton, and especially the energy she injected into the Physics Department! We will miss her, and we extend our warmest wishes for her continued success, joy, and fulfilment.

Patrick Jones

Allan Wilkie

Allan Wilkie joined Clifton in 2004 and would stay for the next 19 years.

He made an instant impression on the Art Department and on the students’ work as his attention to detail, draughtsmanship, light, colour and technique was clear; not only in his own work but also in the paintings and drawings he used to demonstrate the skills and techniques used by the great masters. Another example of this attention to detail is that he never let students use black oil paint, insisting that they mix it themselves so they create the correct hue. Pupils never ceased asking why, and I know for a fact that on occasion illicit tubes of Mars Black were smuggled insometimes even by teachers, no names mentioned.

So frustrated by the drab colour of the walls and doors in the department, one holiday Allan came in armed with paint and brushes and repainted both floors in a Mondrian style, bright and bold. It still remains in places. This just demonstrates Allan’s hands-on approach to running the department. Rather than wait for porters to carry up a 650kg etching press, he convinced me to help him and we heaved and struggled it up the Tribe fire escape, in pieces, to reassemble in the main art studio.

Allan transformed House Art into an inclusive, exciting exhibition of students’ work: a mass of painting, drawing, etching, photography and sculpture that the students set up themselves, he encouraged them in the hanging of their own work, but could never resist intervening when everyone had left to adjust the positioning, always the perfectionist. It moved from location to location over the years, including the rackets court, which made things tricky for Reggie, before settling in the Sixth Form studio in the Tribe where it became established and attracted large crowds to view the work and listen to the speech from the visiting artist/adjudicator after the Christmas Concert.

An extremely talented artist himself, Allan has rarely shown his own work in College, wanting more for students

and staff to focus on the work he does in teaching, than draw attention to himself. He was once tempted out of this approach when John Grice (Pre Head of Art) suggested a staff exhibition as part of the North Bristol Arts Trail and members of both Art Departments, Upper and Preparatory, took over the Hornby Centre for a long weekend with great success. This brought wider attention to Allan’s skill as an artist and through this, and word of mouth, there are now a few members and ex members of the College community who have an ‘Allan Wilkie’ on their living room wall.

He was passionate that students see real paintings in gallery settings and organised a multitude of trips both in the UK and abroad, travelling to places such as Tate Britain and The National Gallery in London and galleries in Florence and New York.

Allan brought a distinctive quality and style to Clifton and has seen a number of teachers pass through the department over the years. With his support, many have gone on to become heads of department themselves and we have all learnt an enormous amount from his passion, knowledge and understanding of art. We wish him all the best as he retires from teaching to focus on his own work.

Paul Wigginton

Old Cliftonian Society

As we stirred from the surreal world of Zoom and Teams, we all discovered a real appetite to ‘get out and meet’ again.

Incredibly (in the Summer Term of 2023 alone) we have met over 990 OCs ‘face to face,’ both here and abroad, posting record attendances at events; the warmth shown to the College has rarely been stronger. Here are some of the highlights:

OC involvement in the Coronation

There was a strong OC presence in Westminster Abbey. Andrew Nethsingha (WaH 85) Director of Music at the Abbey presided over the music for the service and Nick Gutfreund (ET 1978) of the Worshipful Company of Carpenters designed and created the Anointing Screen.

1862 Club Lunch

Thirty-two members accepted an invitation from the Head Master to the legacy Club annual lunch in the cricket pavilion. As always, this was an enjoyable gathering with wonderful entertainment provided by the Music School. The Club (open to both OCs and parents) has been so generous to the school with bequests over the last 18 months exceeding £1.2m. A benefactors’ board has now been placed at the foot of the Wilson Tower thanking departed members and their families.

Breakfast Clubs

Increasingly popular and held once a month, topics have included ‘Positive Sleep,’ ‘The Tree Invented the Carpenter,’ ‘AI: Friend or Foe’ and ‘Ethics in Medicine.’ Open to local OCs and a great opportunity for parents to meet former pupils.

Reunion for Leavers (1986-96)

Our biggest ever response, this reunion sold out in just three days. This year group, of course, included the first girls to attend Clifton, resulting in the largest attendance (c185) to a reunion yet. The fun-filled day ended in a raucous dinner and probably the worst rendition of the school song we have ever heard in BSK, but when you are having so much fun, musicality does not really matter!

OC Alumni Day and Centenary of the Cricket Pavilion

A new initiative aimed at OC families, grandparents and friends and coinciding with the centenary of the Pavilion. In glorious weather, approximately 175 people gathered to enjoy picnics and a leisurely day watching the Clifton Girls’ XI take on a Gloucs CCC exhibition Girls’ XI. The soul band performed a musical backdrop and the day included face painting for children, football, cricket nets, barbecue and bar.

Singapore and Hong Kong

In June 2023, the Head Master and I embarked on a whistlestop visit to Singapore and Hong Kong. We were delighted to welcome 26 OCs and parents to the Singapore gathering and 79 to the Hong Kong reception. In between, we met prospective and grateful past parents. A short, but very enjoyable visit as we were keen to reconnect with OCs and parents in that part of the world (having not visited there since before Covid) and the record numbers of attendees proved the trip was a success and underlined the warmth shown to the College in that part of the world.

Ground Breaking Ceremony for the New Chellaram Sports Centre

On 1st July, the College and the Chellaram Foundation held an official Ground Breaking Ceremony on the site of the new Chellaram Sports Complex at Beggar’s Bush. The new indoor sports complex includes enhanced sports and changing facilities available for use by both

the College and local community groups. We are hugely grateful to the Chellaram Foundation for joining us for this ceremony and making such a generous donation to build our new sports centre. This transformational development of high quality benefits our pupils as well as groups and schools from a wide variety of backgrounds from across the city.

Cricketer Cup Success

Our OC Cricket team reached the third round of the Cricketer Cup, beating Ampleforth at home, followed by victory in a thrilling match away at Uppingham. Sadly we then lost to Malvern on the Close, but it was a wonderful achievement - the best in over a decade from our young team.

Golf Day

A full quota of OC golfers competed in the annual golf day at Bristol & Clifton Golf Club, followed by dinner in the Pavilion with a raffle and an auction to bolster much-needed funds in the OCGS coffers.

Jeremy Pickles

Acting OC Secretary

Development Trust

The CCDT has been very effective in its efforts to increase the levels of charitable giving from alumni and parents. In particular, bursarial giving has been a great success. Our CCDT Trustees Matching Fund, Polack’s House Educational Trust, 1862 members and, of course, gifts from OCs and parents have been strong. Clifton has also been the beneficiary of the wellpublicised transitional gift from the Chellaram Family Foundation towards the fabulous Chellaram Sports Complex (see p. 118 for details).

Clifton’s charitable support comes in many sizes and is directed to a variety of purposes, from bursaries for qualified means-tested pupils who otherwise could not afford a Clifton education, to gifts directed to capital projects or vital improvements to our site. We are so grateful for all the support we receive.

One of the highlights of this past year was the John Cleese Dinner in London. The special guest was the actor, writer and comedian John Cleese who entertained the guests during the course of

the evening. The event was a tremendous success, raising well over £100,000 and serving as a thank you to our top charitable supporters for their longstanding commitment to Clifton.

The Development Trust will work hard to speak with our parents regarding the necessity of bursarial giving to the fabric of Clifton and essential capital projects that enhance the teaching and learning experience. It will become essential that we speak with those parents in the years to come who are in the enviable

position of being able to support Clifton charitably. At Clifton, as at all independent schools, fees alone do not cover the cost of the educational offering; Clifton College, the Council and the CCDT Trustees, including our Chairman Simon Brewer, thank all who contribute charitably to Clifton’s wellbeing.

John Rolfe Development Director