FOCuS Magazine Issue 12:2013 by Culford School

Focus For alumni, friends and the staff of Culford & the EASG

Edition 12: 2013

The Campaign for Culford

Royal Academy at Culford

This year has seen the Foundation launch The Campaign for Culford in support of our exciting development plans for a landmark Library and other facilities for the benefit of current and future generations of Culfordians. Culford’s priority within the Campaign is to build a new Library at the academic heart of the school. This £2.2 million project (see below) will ensure the school can meet the needs of growing pupil numbers, support new ways of learning and provide the latest technology for research and scholarship in a central location. We are therefore delighted to share the wonderful news that we have received a very generous donation of £250,000 from an Old Culfordian, Professor Harry Watson (1949 - 1959). Originally from the nearby village of Barrow, Professor Watson, who now lives in Australia with his wife Adrienne, is the latest in a line of successful former pupils who have made a substantial gift to the school.

Professor Watson is an expert in combustion engines and alternative fuels technology and is the former Head of the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Melbourne, where he now holds a Chair. In June 2010 he was awarded a medal by FISITA (International Federation of Automotive Engineering Societies) for ‘his truly outstanding contribution to automotive engineering’. On making his gift, Harry wrote to the Headmaster, ‘For me it was an opportunity to repay some of the debt owed for having such a good foundation. At the time I challenged some of the values in a Methodist School but they were excellent building blocks that have stood the test of time for me as we have interfaced with so many cultures and challenges.’ Professor Watson’s wonderful donation is a tremendous boost to our fundraising efforts and we have launched a number of initiatives to help raise the rest of the funds we need. For more information about the Campaign, news on our progress and details on how you might consider helping us, please see the centre pages in this magazine.

Focus - Foundation Office Culford School

Culford School Bury St Edmunds Suffolk IP28 6TX Tel: 01284 385310 Email: foundation@culford.co.uk

Artist’s impression (CGI) of the new Library, looking towards Culford Hall.

An exhibition of works of art by students of the Royal Academy Schools was viewed by over 200 guests in Culford Hall on Saturday 5 October 2013. The occasion also marked the official opening of the Foundation Gallery by Simon Kiddy (1974 - 1978), pictured, within the school’s Art Department. Please see page 3 for full story.

Workman Restored Using funds from the Old Culfordian Association, together with other generous gifts, the Workman Library has been restored to its former glory. This historic and beautiful room now provides a stunning reception room for visitors and guests to the Hall. Please see back cover.

www.culford.co.uk/foundation Focus 1 Registered Charity Number: 310486 Registered Charity Number: 310486

News

From the Editor

MBE for East Anglian Girl

I am always thrilled to meet OCs and former pupils of the East Anglian Schools at our events throughout the year and 2012/13 has been no exception. The London Drinks Reception is a particular highlight for me and the biennial Nostalgia Lunch is always great fun since we seem to manage to encourage new guests who have not been in touch with their school for years. In June, for example, we were delighted to see Robert Fisher (1945 - 1952) who had not been back to Culford in 60 years!

Consultant paediatrician, Dr Nellie Adjaye née Annan (1963 1965), was awarded an MBE at Buckingham Palace on 10 May 2013 for her services to child health and protection in the New Year’s Honours List. Nellie was accompanied by her husband, Robert, son, Niiashie, and her niece and namesake, Nellie. Kent Community NHS Trust put her forward for the award in recognition of 24 years’ consistent service as a Consultant Paediatrician and for sitting on the Laming Inquiry as the main Medical Advisor to Lord Laming in 2003, concerning the appalling death of Victoria Climbie. Some of the Inquiry’s recommendations formed part of the Children’s Act 2004.

We try to get a balance of different events for different year groups and are always pleased to hear your ideas. If you would like to champion a year group reunion then please let us know, we would be delighted to help organise it. This year a great deal of work has gone into preparation for The Campaign for Culford. In fact, it is the culmination of two years careful planning and we have been deliberately cautious in our approach because of the challenging economic climate facing us all. Needless to say, Professor Watson’s very significant gift to Culford of £250,000 (see cover) has given the team a tremendous boost; we hope it will also spur others on to support our endeavours. I am absolutely convinced that our planned new library will transform the academic life of this school. Pupils will benefit enormously. It will be centrally located with enough space for a whole year group to study in, as well as offering a flexible lecture theatre, state of the art technology and quiet spaces where children of all ages can enjoy the pleasure of reading and studying in quiet and comfortable surroundings. The building will face ‘The King of the Park’, Culford’s oldest oak tree planted c1591 and look out towards the North Woods. As Cicero said “If you have a garden and a library, you have everything you need”. We have the greatest of gardens at Culford; we hope now to have the library to match. If you would like to know more about the Campaign, the programme of alumni events or just want to make contact, I would be really pleased to hear from you. Jo Johnson-Munday, Foundation Director jjm@culford.co.uk or tel: 01284 385306 Editorial Assistant: Jessica Glover

Read this and past issues of FOCuS online Jo Johnson-Munday

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Nellie’s interest in paediatric medicine started in her home country of Ghana and continued after the two years she spent at the East Anglian School for Girls, before she gained admission to the Royal Free Hospital Medical School. Nellie is still in touch with some of her old classmates from the EASG including Margaret Jessup née Ulph (1957 - 1965) who lives nearby. Dr Nellie Adjaye née Annan

Anyone for Tennis? As Chair and organiser of the event, Susan Glasswell (1959 - 1970) reported an excellent standard of tennis played during the Bury and West Suffolk Tennis tournament, which took place at Culford Sports and Tennis Centre during August 2013. About 180 competitors played in events from age eight and under through to open events for any age in singles, doubles and mixed doubles. It was the 86th year of the tournament and was sponsored by Glasswells, Ensors, Inflate, the Bury Free Press and Culford School.

Next year’s event is on 28 July 2014 and Susie would be pleased to hear from any volunteers who would like to help with the event. To make contact, please get in touch with the Foundation team.

A Regular Visitor

Susan Glasswell

Jack Bungard (1935 - 1939) was literally the very first of the new pupils at school when it moved to Culford in 1935, as his parents arrived four hours early. In particular, he grew to appreciate the style of the Headmaster, Dr John Skinner; the skills of Mathematics teacher, Bill Blamey; and the subject of Physics presented by Frank Hague. Jack went from Culford into the RAF working in the newly developed RADAR division. He later learned to fly and became a flying instructor using the famous Tiger Moth bi-plane. After the RAF a doctorate in Anthropology was followed by working in his father’s shoe business, then to management in manufacturing and consulting. Jack later became the pioneering principal of a business college in Watford. Many memories are fired by his returning to Culford events which he does regularly, despite being 92 and living in Hertfordshire.

Foundation Art Gallery

www.culford.co.uk/foundation

Royal Academy Exhibition Launches New Culford Gallery

Bex Selway (2006 - 2011) and Kathryn Crane (2004 - 2011) The new Foundation Gallery

Daniel Mortlock (1996 - 2003), Paul Swanson (1996 - 2003), Danielle Swanson

Katie Hargreaves (U6), Andrew Morgan (Deputy Head 1985 - 2006) and his wife Hazel, Beth Ivory (U6)

Andrew Hibberd, Samantha Salisbury, Neville Hibberd (1941 - 1947) Jane Hibberd and Katie Noorlander, (Art Technician)

An exhibition of works of art by students of the Royal Academy Schools was viewed by over 500 guests at Culford across several events in October 2013. The School’s evening, on Saturday 5 October, marked the official opening of the Foundation Gallery within the Art Department, a project which was funded by the Old Culfordian Association and other generous donors. The new Foundation Gallery is central to Culford’s plans for its art department within The Campaign for Culford, and is

the first area to be remodelled, providing a stunning, professionally-lit space for displays of pupils’ work. Future planned developments will provide a large teaching studio with a glass panelled roof and large picture windows opening out towards the North Front and onto the 480 acres of parkland which surround the school. Please see page 17 for more information about the Campaign. The exhibition in Culford Hall, which was sponsored by investment management

Leigh Hoggar, Art Teacher, with a pupil in the Foundation Gallery

company JM Finn & Co, represented a new venture for the RA Schools, bringing the works produced by its students out of London and into East Anglia for the first time. These included a wide range of contemporary art media and were displayed throughout a variety of rooms in the Hall while guests enjoyed champagne sponsored by Adnams, together with delicious canapés sponsored by the school’s caterers, Edwards and Blake. RA students also spent a day running classes and workshops with Culford’s talented art scholars.

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Property People

Property People To understand the diversity of the property industry you need only consider the chosen career paths of the Culfordians featured here. Perhaps years of schooling in the beautiful 480 acres of parkland which surround the historic listed buildings and famous iron bridge had more of an impact than anyone might have imagined. It is certainly true that when former pupils return to visit, they are ever impressed with the estate as it stands today. Having qualified as a chartered surveyor in London in 1968, Brian Kennedy (1954 - 1960) emigrated with his wife to Canada and started a new life in Calgary, Alberta. Working for the property arm of the Canadian Pacific Railway, Brian held various management positions in Vancouver, Toronto and finally Chicago, Illinois. He then joined LaSalle Partners (now Jones Lang LaSalle) and moved to Los Angeles, managing the land acquisition and disposition advisory business on the West Coast.

An interesting assignment was to acquire, on behalf of Disney, all the property necessary to expand Disneyland at Anaheim. Still resident in Los Brian Kennedy Angeles, Brian is now retired, enjoying his grandchildren and California’s never-ending sunshine.

Stephen Musgrave (1964 - 72)

as a consultant to a group of Qatari investors; and is an adviser to London law firm, Boodle Hatfield. He also has five charity roles with: the Prince’s Regeneration Trust; the Reading Real Estate Foundation; Action for Children; as Chairman of Governors at Newland House School; and on the Client Advisory Board for the Royal Academy of Arts.

Hubert Spalding on his visit to Culford

Hubert Spalding (1951 - 1957) recently returned to Culford and spent an afternoon reminiscing with School Archivist, Lesley Robinson, and Jo, the Foundation Director. On leaving school, Hubert wanted to be an auctioneer and estate agent and he became an articled pupil with WS Hall & Palmer until 1961. After a spell as a trainee with Arnold & Son, Hubert became an assistant land agent with Harlow Development Corporation dealing with the land purchase for the new town. From there he joined Savills as a chartered surveyor and estate agent until 1980 when he set up his own company, Spalding & Co, offering professional property services in North Norfolk. Hubert retired in 2006. He now plays golf at Sheringham and Mundesley and enjoys watching Norwich City F.C., North Walsham Rugby Club and Harleston Magpies Hockey, of which club he is Vice - President. He also enjoys trips to the Lake District to watch fell running. Hubert remembers Bernard Farr who taught Geography, a subject he particularly enjoyed, although he still has his Culford Report book which he says, “Is not pretty reading!” He has fond memories of playing cricket and still has his score book for the Colts team of 1955/56. The records tell him the batsmen scored 851 runs and took 84 wickets. Hubert would be especially pleased to hear from OCs from his year group. Do let the Foundation team know if you wish to get in touch.

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The son of a Planning Officer from Bury St Edmunds, Stephen Musgrave (1964 - 1972) joined Culford’s Upper Second in 1964 and left after his A Levels, where, by his own account, “I did better than anyone ever expected, including myself!” Apart, perhaps, from his father who clearly had great faith in his son’s abilities, having previously registered him to sit for a place at Cambridge. Although Stephen narrowly missed a place there he went on to Reading University to study Real Estate and has never looked back.

Stephen believes he benefited hugely from his education at both Culford and Reading and says “I can’t fault what Culford did: the School dragged everything possible out of me and it taught me that you don’t get anything without hard work. It was an interesting era too - a wonderful period of transition from the late 1960s to early 1970s when some of the Sixth Form still had straw boaters and cravats while others had long hair and beards!”

His commercial property experience now spans over 35 years including eleven years at Grosvenor, seven as their Chief Executive, and four years as Managing Director at Hines UK, probably the largest private property company in the world. Stephen currently runs his own business, Houghton Property Advisers LLP; holds Non-Executive roles in Native Land, a high quality residential development and investment business in London; is Chairman of a fund management company; acts Stephen Musgrave pictured with Paul Rynsard at London Drinks Reception 2013

Property People Richard Travers (1962 - 1968) met OCs at the Hong Kong reunion at Alfie’s by Kee bar in February 2013. Richard graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Leeds and went on to work in London on a variety of construction Richard Travers projects, including The Thames Barrier. Seeking a change he accepted a post in Zhuhai, China to work on a new deepwater harbour. It was while there that Richard met the lady he went on to

Getting the best out of people is clearly part of Stephen’s philosophy and it is something he has tried to do throughout his career. This is particularly evident from his involvement with the Reading Real Estate Foundation. Its summer school, Pathways to Property, enables local Year 12 state school students to find out what the industry is all about; and its extensive mentoring programme ensures that every real estate and planning undergraduate and graduate (some 300) has access to an individual mentor who is an industry professional. Stephen is married to Alison and has two daughters. They celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary last year and spend their time between homes in Kew and Dorset. Beyond work he enjoys travelling with his family and a variety of outdoor pursuits, including some fairly serious climbing and trekking every year with an ex-special forces friend. He also ran a halfmarathon in September this year. Stephen says retirement means different things to different people, but for him it’s about having choice: either to carry on working 13 hours a day or to do a lot less. It seems unlikely to change Stephen’s interest in the rural side of real estate however, since he and Alison are already growing a wild flower meadow and establishing a lake at their home in Dorset. Not a surprising passion, perhaps, for an 11 year old boy to develop amidst the beauty of Culford …

www.culford.co.uk/foundation marry in 1987 and together they had a son. The Orient became home and the couple initially lived in Hong Kong where Richard worked on the Parkview residential development. Commercial postings to Namibia, Beijing and Singapore followed and in 1989 Macau became home, although the family moved to Malaysia while Richard was involved in building the International Terminal at the airport in Sepang. His last international posting was to Taiwan building a high speed railway. Finally settling in Macau, Richard worked on projects as diverse as the New Yaohan department store, a bungy jump on Macau Tower and building small casinos, until ill health eased him reluctantly into early retirement. Asked why Culford? Richard explained, “My father spent his war years with 1RHA. In the Spring of 1944 father’s unit prepared for the D-Day Landings at a camp based on Thetford Chase. During training he was parachuted into the grounds of Culford and, having been impressed with what he found, in the fullness of time chose the school for my elder brother, David, and me.” Rowland Beaney (1964 - 1973) did not expect to follow his father into a career as a chartered surveyor and agricultural Rowland Beaney valuer. However, with hindsight, perhaps working in the office and livestock market from childhood made the move inevitable. After three years at the Royal Agricultural College, Cirencester he spent six years at Bidwells before returning in 1983 to R C Knight & Sons at Stowmarket. Since then he has been involved with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers at local and national levels, becoming President of the CAAV in 2011/12. Both of Rowland’s children are OCs and also became chartered surveyors. Kate Deakin née Beaney (1989 - 1997) is presently on maternity leave from her job as a senior valuer with Christie & Co, specialising in business valuations throughout the north-west and Wales from their Manchester office. She

married Philip Deakin (another chartered surveyor who followed his father into the profession!) in 2011 and has her hands full with their son, Henry, who was born in May 2013. Thomas Beaney (1992 - 2002) stayed on at Oxford Brookes to take an MSc before qualifying with Colliers CRE in London. After a nine-month Tom Beaney break in 2012, spent travelling through South America and Asia, he joined Hammerson plc and helps manage their retail property interests throughout the UK. Tim Buxbaum (1965 - 1974) qualified as an architect in 1983 and initially worked in London on commercial projects. This did not satisfy his interest in older buildings so he took a travelling scholarship from The Society for the Preservation of Ancient Buildings, and moved to Edinburgh where he wrote his first book about decorative buildings on country estates. Family ties brought Tim back to Suffolk, where he has been running his own small rural practice since 1999. He has worked on many interesting historic buildings in East Anglia: country houses, castles, abbeys, churches and mills. Tim also designs new buildings, such as a new church spire and a three-storey private folly, as well as working on private houses. He is married with two teenage sons.

Woodbridge Tide Mill (Tim Buxbaum)

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Property People from central London, Norwich, Cambridge and Prague. Feilden+Mawson has had a long-term partnership with the Cabinet Office, Ministry of Justice and the Palace of Westminster, working on some of the nation’s most iconic buildings, including the new UK Supreme Court and both Houses of Parliament. Paul believes one of Feilden+Mawson’s biggest strengths is the harmonious relationships which exist within the firm’s 60-strong workforce and with its prestigious client base.

Paul Rynsard

Paul Rynsard (1966 - 1970) One of five siblings to have attended Culford School, Paul Rynsard (1966 - 1970) has used skills honed in the worlds of finance and law to guide distinguished architects’ practice, Feilden+Mawson and has been Managing Partner there since 2001. Under his leadership the practice has grown substantially and now operates On leaving Culford, Martin Freeman (1969 - 1979) spent a year working for Martineau Farms, near Bury St Edmunds, before Martin Freeman attending the Royal Agricultural College to study for a diploma in Rural Estate Management. After three years “of fun and some work,” he secured a job working in mid-Wales for a mixed practice of Land Agents and Chartered Surveyors, Woosnam & Tyler. In 1986 he returned to Suffolk to work for Strutt & Parker in Ipswich, where he was responsible for the management of a number of large agricultural estates. The hurricane in 1987 provided an opportunity to get involved in woodland management and he was heavily involved in clearing up and re-planting a number of estates and farms in Suffolk.

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“I’m not a designer or an engineer, but I do understand the principles of good leadership, of how to put teams together so that the client, designers and engineers work in harmony,” says Paul, who has a Masters in Project Management. As a project manager, Paul has worked on major construction projects nationally in Manchester, Liverpool, Salisbury and Newport and internationally in Malaysia, China and the Middle East. He says, “My role has largely been as a facilitator. I take a lead in getting projects started and then handing them on to architectural

colleagues to move them on. I love the variety of work; I like the challenge of moving things forward.” The past 15 years has seen a growing focus in the importance of sustainability at Feilden+Mawson. “We have all got to make a contribution to reducing global warming. Those of us who work in the built environment have a critical part to play in ensuring the legacy that we pass on to the next generation is a good one,” comments Paul. Paul and his wife Julia, who is an Ipswich solicitor and Green Party councillor on St Edmundsbury Council, still have a family home in Suffolk. Son, Louis (2001 - 2010) another Old Culfordian, is a politics student at Hull University. In 2014 Paul plans to return to the Cambridge studio where F+M recently opened their new office in St Andrew’s Street, while also assisting his market researcher daughter, Lucy (1997 – 2005), another Old Culfordian, and her husband, Ash, renovate their house. Lucy was married at St Mary’s, Culford in 2013, see page 32 for the announcement.

In 1991 Martin set up his own practice, Martin Freeman & Co, specialising in Estate Management, but with particular emphasis on woodland, conservation and fishing. His business merged with Fenn Wright in 1998 and Martin became a Partner and head of its Rural Division. Martin started to specialise in leisure and, in particular, water and fisheries, his interest originally starting at Culford and spending many hours fishing at the lake. This niche business developed further with the property website, www.fisheries4sale.com and he is now one of the few chartered surveyors in the country specialising in this area. Martin was also involved in the restoration of Culford Park over the last 15 years, acting as the School’s land agent. He says, “It has been a privilege to be involved at the School, both in advising in respect of the parkland and property interests, but also to serve as a Governor for 11 years and Chair the Finance Committee until 2013.” Jan Wilcox (1973 - 1980) started her career with a local company of chartered surveyors, Fenn Wright Spurling, based in Colchester. She went on to join London Transport as the

Jan Wilcox and her daughter at the Culford Triathlon in 2012

only female surveyor and worked her way up to managing prestigious central London properties. Jan qualified as a chartered surveyor and started her MBA while working with The Crown Estate and managing Regent Street. She was then headhunted to join Hammerson PLC where she worked on the Bull Ring Shopping Centre in Birmingham and from where she went on to join Merrill Lynch. There, she was Vice President of Real Estate and a Director of Tower 42, formerly the Natwest Tower, in the City. With the arrival of her children, she began to look for a career to build around her family commitments. Her professor at Reading University, where she had gained her MBA, invited her back as a guest lecturer. She gained a PGCE and has a number of lecturing roles and now also manages her own property and education consultancy company.

Property People

www.culford.co.uk/foundation

Duncan Haydon (1977 - 1986)

Zamir Borg-Mirza

After completing a Business degree and MBA, Zamir Borg-Mirza (1979 1984) attended City University to study for an MA in Property Valuation and Law and has worked in property for 20 years. He started in his family’s nursing home business and later qualified as a chartered surveyor, dealing with the sale and acquisition of commercial investment properties on behalf of private clients and funds in London. In 2009, Zamir founded EPC Assure which specialises in energy surveys, floor plans, asbestos surveys and ‘Green Deal’ advice services, advising clients such as nationwide pension funds, banks and property companies. Paul Bedford (1977 - 1982) is currently senior Partner for the family business of estate agents with offices in Bury St Edmunds, Burnham Market in north Norfolk, and Aldeburgh on the Suffolk coast. Bedfords specialise in individual and Paul Bedford interesting properties, be they period or modern, in the town, country or by the coast. The firm has been established since 1966 and the Aldeburgh office has just celebrated its tenth anniversary. On a personal note, Paul says that since giving up playing hockey some five years ago, he now enjoys playing badminton, golf and country pursuits as

Following a career change from agriculture, Duncan Haydon (1977 - 1986) found himself studying Construction Management and Building Technology in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire. Once qualified and having gained experience with other contractors, Duncan returned to the family business, working his way up to the role of Managing Director and guiding Seamans Building towards and beyond its centenary year in 2012. Duncan recognises the importance of the service element of his building business, commenting, “The company is its people and without an engaged team we would not be able to deliver the varied range of projects that we have been fortunate to realise. We are diverse; being active in the heritage, retail, community, social housing, commercial, private residential, health and educational sectors. So, recently, I found myself returning to Culford, not with a trunk and school bag, but clutching a tape and clipboard.” Seamans has worked with Culford on many projects including the restoration of the Billiard Room and the adjacent former gentlemen’s smoking room, now named the Beech Room after the generous OC benefactor who co-funded the work with the school. Most recently the firm completed the first two refurbishment well as taking sons, Oscar and George, to watch Norwich City. His wife, Katie, teaches and plays hockey with Bury St Edmunds Ladies 1st XI and, as well as representing her country at Masters level, recently took up horse riding. Oscar is now in his second year of a Business Study course, while daughter Molly is currently studying for her GCSEs and has a keen interest in equestrian pastimes. George is a typical 10 year old and keen on everything from learning the ukulele and violin, to playing hockey and football. Kevin Short (1980 - 1987) now works for Lafarge Tarmac, the largest supplier of aggregates, cement, and asphalt in the UK, as an Area Operation Manager. This includes Ingham Quarry a near neighbour to Culford. Kevin has worked in the industry for 21 years in several roles and is currently responsible for many units across East Anglia.

Duncan Haydon

phases of Fitzgerald House, thereby creating a second girls’ boarding House, and oversaw restoration work to the Headmaster’s Study, an office which Duncan admits “in my former years I preferred to avoid!” Duncan says that he enjoys working on heritage projects as well as more conceptual homes for the 21st Century, recognising that, eventually, they may be tomorrow’s listed buildings. The Balancing Barn in Thorington, Suffolk is one such example and has been acknowledged internationally. Duncan comments, “Studying in such historic buildings and the beautiful parkland at Culford perhaps had a subliminal influence on me. I still enjoy Culford today by walking the public footpaths with my family and Otto the dog. My daughter, Milly, is a pupil there”.

Andrew Siddall (1983 - 1988) gained an MA in Architecture from the Royal College of Art, qualified as an architect and then cofounded the Andrew Siddall company civic Architects. civic specialises in community-led building, landscape and public art projects and in 2012 they were awarded the national Architect of the Year Award in Environmental Excellence for the Gamlingay Eco Hub Community Centre in South Cambridgeshire. The judges observed that ‘civic shows how far you can go with a building. It’s the most architecturally inventive building that has achieved the most.’

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Property People On qualifying as a chartered surveyor, he moved to Northumberland where he worked for 11 years, finishing as Equity Director. In 2004, he was Anthony Barber-Lomax appointed resident Land Agent to the Fitzwilliam Wentworth estate, where he remains today. The estate extends to some 6,000 hectares including an 18th Century parkland landscape, over 80 listed buildings and a grouse moor in the Peak District. Anthony and Marion have two sons, Thomas, 15, and Archie, 11.

As a child, James Taylor (1982 - 1992) was inspired to become an architect by family friend and former Culford art master, the late John Clibbon. James James Taylor left to study Architecture at Bath and Venice Universities, gaining a Master of Architecture with Distinction. He joined Nicholas Hare Architects in Islington in 1999 and has been project architect in charge of a number of high profile education and arts projects. These include a surgical training centre for the Royal College of Surgeons in Lincoln’s Inn Fields, a performing arts Academy in Birmingham and, most recently, Gloucester Academy. He has led two projects for the Royal Opera House in Purfleet, a production workshop for large scale set painting and construction, and is currently working on a costume workshop and store building. He lives in Brixton with his wife, Julie, and children, Laurence and Nicholas.

Justin C K Lau (1994 - 1999) is an architect at Make Architects and also a Teaching Fellow at the Bartlett School of Architecture, University College London. Justin studied Architecture at the Architectural Association where he was awarded the William Glover Prize for his innovative design. He completed his architectural studies at the University of Westminster. Since then, he has designed and worked on many projects around the world including London, Madrid, Paris, Beijing, Chengdu and Sydney. He worked for Richard Rogers Partnership until 2006, most notably on 122 Leadenhall Building, which will be the tallest building in the City of London when completed. He is currently working on a project in Harrods as well as teaching at UCL.

Anthony Barber-Lomax (1984 - 1986), completed a pre-college year on a mixed farming estate in Gloucestershire, where he met his wife, Marion. He then attended the Royal Agricultural College, obtaining a diploma in Rural Estate Management. Anthony first worked for a private practice in Lancashire while studying for his professional exams.

Jonathan Stevenson (1997 - 1999) went to Reading University where he studied Agricultural Economics and says, “I left there with a great qualification and a superb lady, the now Mrs Stevenson.” Jonathan went on to work for Carter Jonas as a Land Agent in Peterborough. He qualified as a chartered surveyor in 2006 and now works as an Asset

Photo credit: Hufton + Crow

Justin Mason (1982 - 1991) has been a commercial property solicitor since 1999 and acted for a range of Justin Mason with Imogen developers and Clare on interesting schemes with a focus on development and regeneration projects. Currently, he is working on the development of a number of crematoria around the country, a large mixed-use scheme in Cardiff Bay and an ‘Energy from Waste’ facility in the north of England. He is based in Penarth just outside Cardiff and married to Clare, with a daughter, Imogen, 2.

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and Fund Manager for a Mayfairbased practice called Fletcher King. Jonathan’s work takes him all over the UK and Ireland with no two buildings or scenarios the same. “It is challenging and rewarding work”, he says, “and a fantastic industry to be involved in.” Jonathan and his wife have two sons Oliver, 3, and Sebastian, 1. Nick Marley (1986 - 2000) runs a property investment company in Prague, Czech Republic. His company, the Investment Solutions Nick Marley Group, sources investment properties for clients and organises their finance. Nick has more than ten years of property experience and has lived in Prague for almost six years. He worked in a similar role for another company after completing an Engineering Master’s degree at Sheffield University.

Alex Jezard

Jonathan Stevenson with his wife Jeannette

Alex Jezard (1996 - 2001) was another to meet fellow OCs at the Hong Kong reunion in February 2013. He attended the University of Bath studying Civil Engineering. During his year in industry, he worked in project management and enjoyed the role so much that he decided to pursue that as a career and joined Mace Group on a graduate management fast-track scheme. In 2010 he moved onto the international division in Hong Kong to set up and work on a new science park project until its completion in 2016.

Property People Sam Stevens (1991 - 2001) went to Reading University and studied Land Management. Initially wanting to be a rural surveyor, Sam changed his aims after Sam Stevens some work experience with Edward Symmons in London. He was offered a job with them when he graduated in 2005 and completed his chartered exams two years later. Sam moved to Kingly Partners, a niche investment agency, specialising in buying and selling commercial real estate for pension funds, private property companies and high net worth individuals. He enjoys meeting his Culford friends, many of whom also work in London. After leaving Culford, Andrew Milnes (1992 - 2001) read Building Design Management at Northumbria University and as part of the course he secured a placement year with Amec Construction Services assisting their Design Department, while gaining experience in high-end commercial construction projects. Following his degree, he went on to work for Amec as a Graduate Design Manager. He was soon leading Design Teams on a number of complex retail refurbishment projects. Following the acquisition of Amec by the Morgan Sindall Group in 2007, he went on to deliver projects within the Higher Education sector, including £24m worth of award-winning buildings for the University of Sunderland. Now an Associate for a project management and development consultancy, Identity Consult, Andrew heads a number of specialist residential developments throughout the UK. He has come to call the North East home and married Anna in the summer of 2013. Simon Lawn (1992 - 2001) studied Civil Engineering at Loughborough University and on graduating worked for Amec as a site engineer delivering the £180m Woolwich Arsenal DLR Crossing. Simon joined BAM Nuttall in 2010 and has spent over three years working on the £300m Tottenham Court Road Station upgrade for London Underground. His role involves everything from planning and programming the works, reviewing

www.culford.co.uk/foundation at Caroe Architecture in Cambridge on a variety of conservation projects, including a Landmark Trust house, Kimbolton Warren House, St John’s College and Ripon Cathedral. In 2012, Henry was awarded the SPAB Lethaby Travelling Scholarship and spent nine months visiting and studying some of the most important current conservation projects and a wide range of historic buildings within the UK. He has recently started working for Donald Insall, a conservation practice in London, on properties such as the Trinidad Parliament Building and the Palace of Westminster. Photo credit: Patricia Rayner/TfL Tottenham Court Road Station Upgrade (Simon Lawn)

safety documentation, progress and design meetings, to managing a team of engineers and site-based staff. He looks forward to seeing the completed project in a few years’ time. Simon is based in Baldock, Hertfordshire, and has been married to Daniella for three years. They are looking forward to the birth of their first child in May.

Will Jolly

Will Jolly (1992 - 2007) graduated in 2011 with a first class Honours degree in Mechanical Engineering from Loughborough University. He returned to the family farm for the harvest season and decided that he would be happiest in the agricultural world. Since May 2012, Will has been working for Strutt and Parker in Farm Management and Consultancy, covering most of the East and South East of England with farm sizes from a few hundred to 2,800 hectares.

Henry Sanders

His work includes day-to-day farm management, budgeting and finance, crop marketing, environmental stewardship and agronomy. Will says some of his fondest memories of Culford include, “Challenging English lessons with John Humphries!” Read John’s article on page 12.

Henry Sanders (2001 - 2003) pursued a career in architecture returning to the East of England in 2009, working

Focus

Gap Year With a Difference

An Indian Adventure with Freddie Preston (2007 - 2012) Freddie Preston (2007 - 2012) left Culford in July 2012 for a gap year, most of which he spent working at a prestigious public school in India. Before he set off for Cardiff University to read Spanish and Politics, he shared some of his gap year story with us:

Freddie at Mayo College

‘My Indian adventure saw me spend eight months teaching at Mayo College, Ajmer, Rajasthan, three hours from Jaipur and ten hours from New Delhi. I experienced a totally new way of life and although I now love the mindset, customs, cultures, smells and colours of India, when I first arrived I found this alien environment quite difficult. I arrived in Delhi to be ‘escorted’ from my flight by three military men who spoke no English. They ushered me through passport control in front of all my fellow-passengers, collected my baggage and introduced me to a chauffeur. A relative of someone at Mayo had been instructed to provide a diplomat’s welcome. Already I was getting a sense of why Mayo is sometimes called ‘The Eton of The East’.

Before a trip to the Taj Mahal, the minibus was so full, I was called aside and told there was no room for me. Fortunately, the boys complained, pupil power won the day and we set off on the ten hour journey. Then our driver, who had not said a word the whole way, delivered the coup de grace - on Fridays, the Taj Mahal was closed for prayers because, as well as being a Mausoleum, it is also a Mosque. All we saw in the end was the gated entrance and its silhouette across the river from the Agra Fort! Another memorable event occurred on our return from a visit to the Jim Corbett Wildlife Park in the Himalayas. A steep mountain road descent, with stunning views, suddenly came to a halt. A lorry was blocking the road and there was no room to pass without falling thousands of feet into the ravine below. The lorry was driverless. We waited, and even, in desperation, tried in vain to move it. The whole thing was utterly bizarre. After six hours a head suddenly appeared from below the parapet and we saw the dishevelled figure of a scrawny man clambering onto the road carrying a jerry can. Mystery solved. He had run out of petrol and walked miles to find the nearest village, abandoning his lorry where it had stopped!

10 Culford Focus

A maharajah arrives in style

For the summer holidays (our Christmas), I’d been invited to stay with a Thai friend’s family in Bangkok. I took the overnight bus to Delhi and checked in. But at immigration an official pointed at my employment visa. He said that as I had not registered my stay in Ajmer when I arrived, I could not leave the country as I might be absconding from my employers! My bags were unloaded and I missed my flight. To cap it all, the immigration office in Delhi was closed for the weekend. I rang home, with the few rupees left on my pre-paid card and my parents advised me to find a hotel near the airport. A local taxi driver said he had a brother who owned one; I was desperate and luckily he was honest. The hotel was clean, modest and vegetarian. I could just afford it for two nights. Coping with boredom and little money was made surprisingly easy as England were touring and it was the third day of the Nagpur Test. I watched cricket for two solid days. Bliss!

A Staff v Pupils’ football match on my fourth day, National Teachers Day, resulted in a 3-3 draw. Alas, the Head of Geography broke his leg mis-timing a tackle and was given two months leave. I thought nothing of it until my new timetable showed seven geography lessons a day. Having dropped the subject at 13 was apparently no bar to my being in charge of the subject for eight weeks! The classroom itself took some getting used to. I had no idea how to control mischievous little boys and I was being addressed as ‘Sir Freddie’ or even ‘The Most Respected Sir Frederick’! Were these eager eight-year olds being sarcastic or genuinely interested? I soon realised that they were just amazingly keen to learn and somehow I managed to master the skills of teaching with confidence!

polo pavilion. The cavalcade of classic cars was amazing, as was the guard of honour with the boys dressed in their ceremonial turbans and outfits on horses. The horse and carriages of the guests of honour added to this extraordinary and memorable Mayo occasion.

Mayo’s prize-giving is the most revered of occasions with children living, in many cases, thousands of miles away. The event goes on for three days at the end of the school year and old boys from all over the world return. Maharajahs and Maharinis from several states arrived with coteries of servants and cars. This year, the big event was the inauguration of the new

On Monday morning I returned to the immigration office. The official studied my papers, walked to another office, came back with someone else and said that I needed to have it stamped where I worked. I told him that was back in Rajasthan, ten hours away. I nearly cried. Two days wasted and back I had to trawl to Ajmer. It took me a further two days to get my papers stamped and yet another trip to Delhi to finally make it to Bangkok in time for Christmas.

Gap Year With a Difference

www.culford.co.uk/foundation

“The day came to say farewell to Mayo before going to the GCS Global Cricket Academy in Pune, South India. I had dinner with the Headmaster and the Junior School gave a special assembly for me. I was nervous as I had to give a speech, but at the end the boys got up and unanimously cheered, “Bye Bye Respected Sir Frederick and please do come back!” It was all very emotional. Emotions then ran higher. It appeared that the authorities in Ajmer had incorrectly stated my status. It was unbelievable; I was unable to stay at Pune and had to return to Ajmer, over a thousand miles away. I felt completely fed up, tired and helpless. Even my bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award at Culford had not primed me for this kind of challenge! Upon my return to Mayo the Headmaster laid out the red carpet. He upgraded me to the luxury of the school guesthouse, with a servant, and instructed a team of three to sort out my papers once and for all. I finally returned to Pune, where I had a surprise when some Indian army soldiers came rushing up, saying a VIP wished to meet us. David Cameron was on a trade mission and wanted to see some local cricket. He and his entourage arrived and we chatted for about ten minutes. I had my photograph taken with him and The Huffington Post noted that:

The check-in desk, however, refused to listen. My flight was closing but one thing I had learnt over the last seven months was to stick it out, so I stood my ground and... they gave in. I dashed to immigration, my heart pounding and my father on the line waiting for news. The immigration officer asked what I had been doing at Mayo. I told him I had met Geoffrey Boycott in Delhi. He loved cricket. He smiled. Finally, I was on my way home.’

Freddie pictured here with Prime Minister, David Cameron

“Taking part were Leicestershire star Jigar Naik and student Freddy Preston ... who has been helping coach children from the Mumbai slums.” So don’t believe everything you read in the press! Among all my experiences, a handshake from the PM was memorable. My final days were spent in the palatial surroundings of the Bombay Gymkhana, one of India’s most celebrated cricket clubs and then my day of departure beckoned. I was flying out to meet my good friend Max Mason (2007 2012) in Istanbul in order to travel back to Blighty across Central and Eastern Europe. Then came the final clash with officialdom - a demand from Turkish Airlines for £500 excess baggage. I rang home. My father insisted he’d paid for everything and rang Turkish Airlines in Istanbul who confirmed all was in order.

Culford Focus

OC Events

Out and About with John Humphries The landmarks in my life include those all-important rites of passage - from birth to significant birthdays, from the first day at school to graduation, from a wedding day to starting a family, from riding a bicycle to passing the driving test. We sometimes forget those occasions of parental trust - crossing the road unaided, undertaking first errands, staying at home alone, going to the library unsupervised.

Years of 1989 & 90 Reunion Alumni from the Years of 1989 and 1990 came back for tea and a tour on a hot summer’s day in June. The group included former Head Boy, James Forrest (1983 - 1990), and Head Girl, Sarah McCarter (1988 - 1990).

I was fortunate in growing up in an attractive part of Bristol, with a public park opposite and a library within a hundred yards. I regarded it as an inviting place where books, magazines and newspapers were there to be skimmed, browsed, dipped into, even read. My appetite for the printed word, as for food, was omnivorous. It was the newspapers that attracted me then and still make me recall how titles have folded and styles changed. My parents read the News Chronicle, which was thin and limited in pages. The Times, printed on thicker paper, still had small advertisements and notices on the front page. The Daily Worker had its strident voice, while the Illustrated London News, being a weekly, had time to reflect. Among them, Bristol being a city with many maritime connections, was Lloyd’s List, a daily business paper for the shipping industry. It was founded in 1734 and is still printed, well that is until 20 December 2013 when it becomes available only online. Things have changed rapidly in the media and also in the equipping of libraries, particularly in terms of their relationship with the internet and computers. Culford is well aware of the vital nature of these sources of knowledge - for libraries do more than house books or provide internet access. They are a hub of the educational environment where all age-groups can appreciate the recorded responses of past and present generations. An attractive library, above all, encourages individual learning. Responding generously to the school’s fundraising drive for a new landmark Library, part of The Campaign for Culford, will help provide future generations with that essential hub. The skills developed and the sources discovered will be retained by pupils throughout their lives. I am now a magazine proprietor, an editor and a columnist on several publications, grateful for the stimulus provided by my local library. Sources of knowledge encourage success. To contact John, please email: ocliaison@culford.co.uk John Humphries (1968 - 2003) is a former Head of English, Housemaster and Registrar at Culford. In his ‘retirement’ John is busy with a variety of projects, including being the Proprietor and Editor of Scottish Islands Explorer magazine and Culford’s OC Liaison Officer.

Photo credit: Tomek Piech

Focus

Elaine Denny née Rushbrook (1980 - 1989), Amanda Flood née Chalfen (1980 - 1989), Amanda Drummond (1981 - 1989) James Forrest (1983 - 1990), Sarah McCarter (1988 - 1990), Roger Morley (1979 - 1989) and Ruth Taylor née Broadbridge (1981 - 1989) Vintage and Classic Cars outside Culford Hall

Classic and Vintage Car Jaunt, 21 April 2013

Organised by former Culford parent, David Singer, The Colne Valley Classic and Vintage Club’s second annual ‘Cento Miglia’ run made a picturesque lunch stop at Culford with Old Culfordians, John Bolden (1957 – 1962), John Best (1962 – 1970), Ed Daniels (1951 – 1958), Hazel Green (1960 – 1966) and Alicia Weston (1981 – 1988) taking part.

Year of 2002 Reunion, 24 November 2012 A group of more than 35 former pupils and teachers returned to celebrate ten years since leaving Culford including Alice Mayer (1997 - 2002) and Hannah Forshaw (1992-2002).

www.culford.co.uk/foundation

Annual London Drinks, 17 April 2013 In April, almost one hundred alumni, friends and staff met at a new venue, The Royal Thames Yacht Club in Knightsbridge, for Culford’s Annual London Drinks Reception. It was a fine evening and guests were able to enjoy the outside terrace, overlooking Hyde park, whilst catching up over drinks and canapés. Former Headmaster, John Richardson (1992 – 2004) and his wife, Ruth joined the event for the first time and other members of Culford staff in attendance included: Dr John Guntrip (Deputy Head); Nick Hopton (Director of Studies, Prep School and former Edwards Assistant Housemaster); John Humphries (OC Liaison Officer); Brenda Hunt (Head of Art); Mike Schofield (Prep School Head and former Edwards Housemaster); Dave Watkin (Assistant Head).

L - R Annalise Pask (1999 - 2004), Brenda Hunt (Head of Art), Lucy-Ellen Berwick (1997 - 2004)

L - R Helen Argyros-Farrell, Henrietta Cobbald (1988 - 1995) and Anna Myram (1994 - 1996)

L - R Rita Nixon née Alderton (1955 - 1962), Deryck Gowland (1956 - 1963), Lesley Shaw née Eve (1959 - 1964)

Gary Newbon (1954 - 1964) and John Motson (1956 - 1961)

L - R Geoff Knowles (2002 - 2009), Victoria Whight (2007 - 2009) and Ali Pound (2002 - 2009)

L - R Helen de Bois, Tony Crane (1969 - 1978), Nick de Bois (1967 - 1977), Louise Crane née Partridge (1971 - 1979)

John Richardson (Headmaster, 1992 - 2004) and his wife, Ruth

L-R Simon Dye (1977- 1984) Samantha Salisbury (Foundation Manager) Mark Robson (1974 – 1984), Stephen Poole (1977 – 1985), and Dr John Guntrip (Deputy Head)

L - R Sue Edwards (1969 - 1973), John Humphries, OC Liasion Officer, Patricia Hiley née James (1970 - 1973)

STOP PRESS: The 2014 London Drinks Reception has been set for Wednesday 30 April and will be held at The Royal Thames Yacht Club in Knightsbridge for the second year running. For more information and to book your place, please contact Samantha Salisbury on 01284 385310 or email: foundation@culford.co.uk

Culford Focus

OC Events

Nostalgia Lunch, 15 June 2013 Over 70 former pupils and staff travelled to Culford last summer for this biennial event which included a tour, lunch and musical performances by some very talented current pupils.

L - R Anne Hutchinson née Sewell (1942 - 1954), Bridget Boyd née Snelson (1947 - 1952)

L - R Dorothy Calder née Hubbard (1946 - 1952) and Sarah Rowling née Leeson (1947 – 1960)

L - R Peter Scates (1945 - 1951), Mrs Jo Johnson-Munday, Robert Fisher (1945 - 1952)

L - R Susanne Kohl née Beckett (1949 - 1957), Sarah Rowling née Leeson (1947 – 1960) Peter Livock (1959 - 1964), John Humphries, OCA Liaison Officer, Nigel Aitkens (1959 - 1964), Brian Scott (1958 - 1966), David Fenning (1951 - 1958)

L - R Wendy Spencer née Skinner (1935 - 1939), Peter Scates (1945 - 1951), Robert Jacklin (1943 1953), Christopher Spencer

L - R Charlie Bungard, Joan Flaxman, Ted Flaxman (1937 - 1946) and Wendy Spencer née Skinner

Tea for Two, 10 October 2013

Over 60 Culford and East Anglian School for Girls alumni attended this annual event and were treated to performances from talented current pupils, as well as the obligatory cup of tea!

Ivan (1936 - 1943) and Wyn Sneezum

John Simms (1944 - 1949) and Anthony Stockley (1939 - 1944)

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Pauline and Robert Randall (1952 – 1959)

Pupils from the Senior School Trio

www.culford.co.uk/foundation

Forty Years On Reunion, 27 April 2013 To mark forty years since they left school, the reunion lunch for the Years of 1970-1975 at Culford was, appropriately, attended by over forty Old Culfordians, with some coming from as far afield as Singapore and Hong Kong.

L-R Stuart Green (1963 – 1973), Robert Knight (1963 - 1971), David King (1963 - 1971)

Back row: L-R Julia Shawe-Taylor née Steward, Hamish Knox, Bob Brudenell, Nick Bodnar 4th Row: L-R Steve Ward, Paul Berry, David Williams, Stuart Green, Rowland Beaney, Edward Wells 3rd Row: L-R Phil Pryke, Maryanne Pryke née Hanik, Ed Norman , Alan Wong, Nick Robertson, Phil Wong, Jeff Lennon, Dave Thorne, Dave King 2nd Row: Helen Lynsky née Judkins, Barbara Mavridoglou née Gale, Ben Knighton, Julian Coster, Anthony Darby, Rob Knight, Carolin Boyle née Hales, Sarah Fulcher née Lee. Front Row: Martin Chilvers, Jenny Ward née Lake, Sarah Lawn née Wardman, Erica Kelly née Kellaway

Headmaster’s Visit to Hong Kong, February 2013 The Headmaster, Julian Johnson-Munday, and his wife, Jo, and the Assistant Head, Dave Watkin, were delighted to meet up for drinks with a number of OCs at Alfie’s by Kee bar during their visit to Hong Kong during spring half term 2013.

Victoria Sharman-Cox, Alex Jezard (1996 - 2001) and Fiona Bojan née Siddall (1980 - 1982)

L-R Loretta Lo (1987 - 1992) Raymond Lau (1991 1995) and Serene Lau (1989-1993)

L-R Rick Travers (1962 - 1968) James Lau (1989 - 1994) and his wife

L-R Robert Knight (1963 - 1971), Headmaster, Dave Watkin (Assistant Head) and Rick Travers (1962 - 1968)

Focus

Gap Year With a Difference

A Roaring Success in Africa - Travis Oxley (2009 - 2012) Travis worked to raise funds after leaving school in July 2012. Within six months he was ready to leave for South Africa and a four month trip. Arriving in Cape Town, he had volunteered to help care for endangered animals at the game park, African Dawn. His duties involved feeding, cleaning and clearing up after the animals as well as helping to maintain the enclosures for emus and ostriches He was able to use this experience when he moved to the oldest lion park in South Africa as a volunteer, along with a group which ranged from fellow gap-year students to retirees. Travis enjoyed looking after the lions and was given the enviable task of playing with, and caring for, the cubs. He was asked to stay on longer than originally planned, being given the responsibility to assist with rearing nine-month-old lions. By March, he was travelling around the country by bus, visiting places as diverse as Cape Town, Lesotho and Durban, often travelling with friends made along the way. He had landed on his feet and made friends easily, so his journeys were exciting and experiences encouraging. His next stage in life’s journey will start with the degree course to study Quantity Surveying at Nottingham University.

Raleigh International in India - Alice Crane (2004 - 2012) After raising money by working as an Accounts Assistant, Alice began to prepare for travelling to India for three months with a Raleigh International volunteering group at the start of October. The expedition was split into a community, an environmental and an adventure phase. The first adventure phase involved a threeweek trek around Kerala. Alice and the group enjoyed the stunning landscapes while facing such daily challenges as carrying 25kg packs and setting up camp in the pouring rain, fending off leeches and organising food precisely into meals as they received a food-drop every five or six days. They soon acclimatised to filling bottles from streams and rivers and washing in lakes. During the community phase Alice lived in a rural tribal community, building sanitation units for eight houses in the village. She and the group worked alongside the beneficiaries, who showed generous hospitality.

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Last was the environmental phase which entailed working in a larger village, building bio-gas units for four houses while living in a ‘basha camp’ which the group built from bamboo and tarpaulins. The bio-gas units enable the village to extract methane gas from cattle waste for cooking, and use the leftovers as fertiliser. Alice says that this was the most physically challenging of all as they had to dig 6’ by 14’ deep holes for each unit before they even started building.

She observed that her time in India, although challenging, was a real adventure and felt very worthwhile. Since returning home, Alice completed an additional A-Level in Business Studies, something which helped her to secure a place at Durham University to study Business and Management from October 2013.

The Campaign for Culford

BUILDING ON EXCELLENCE FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS In June 2013, the Foundation began the launch of The Campaign for Culford, which will help to raise funds to ensure that Culford offers the best possible facilities for current and future generations of pupils.

• A new Library • A refurbished Hastings and Skinner teaching facility • A second girls’ boarding House • A new Kitchen and Dining Facility • A redeveloped Art department • A restored Culford Hall Our ambition is to provide facilities at Culford that allow children to maximise their potential, whatever their talents. The projects we plan will enhance our pupils’ learning, creative expression, pastoral care and, most importantly, overall enjoyment of their school experience.

Our Targets and Progress to date Achieving all these goals requires an investment of £4.75m. The School intends to meet £3.1 million from existing gifts and revenue; our challenge is to raise the remaining £1.65 million through gifts and donations. We have already made good progress. In 2012/13 we successfully completed the first two phases of the new girls’ boarding House and the kitchen refurbishment, a total investment of £1.2 million by the school. Subsequently, utilising some of the funds received

from the Old Culfordian Association, other donations and early gifts to the Campaign, we completed the refurbishment of the Workman Library and officially opened the new Foundation Art Gallery, the first project to be completed within the Art department. Our priority now is to build a landmark Library at the academic heart of the school. This project is expected to cost £2.2 million and the Foundation is charged with raising at least £750,000 towards the library build. We have been exceptionally fortunate to have already received a gift of £250,000 towards this project from Professor Harry Watson (1949 – 1959), as featured on the front cover of this magazine. The full scope of the Campaign is described in a brochure which is available from the Foundation office or may be viewed online at www.culford.co.uk/campaign For a copy by post, please contact the Foundation team on 01284 385310 or email foundation@culford.co.uk A56014 Culfo rd

Campaign

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paign for C There are a number of ulford fundraising initiatives which Belielaunched we have in support ve you can and you're halfw ay there. of The Campaign for Culford, please see overleaf for more details. BUILDING

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Boarding Houses, Science, Drama, Music and Sport have all benefited enormously from superb new facilities over the past 10 years but we still wish to enhance our provision further. In 2012 the following projects were identified in the school’s Strategic Development Plan:

FOR FUTURE GENERATIO

Campaign fo

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FOR FUTURE GENERATIO

THEODORE ROOSEVELT

Bury St Edm unds Suffolk IP28 6TX Tel: 01284 3853 www.culford.c 10 o.uk Registered Charity No: 310486 Administered by Culford School Trustee Compa ny Ltd No: 560990 5 www.bainesdesig n.co.uk A56014

The futu re is not som e plac e we the path s are goin g, are not to but one we be foun d, them chan but mad e. are crea ting ges both the And the activ , mak er and ity of mak the dest inat ing ion. JOHN H SCHAA R

BUILDING

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Campaign fo r Culford

The entrance to the planned new landmark Library

Artist’s impression (CGI) of the interior

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The Campaign for Culford

BUILDING ON EXCELLENCE FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS

We Need Your Help Our target is to raise £1.65 million through The Campaign for Culford over the next three years and to develop a network of support that will help Culford plan for the future. In order to achieve this we need your help and we are seeking financial support from the Culford community, past and present, as well as from external Trusts and other funding organisations. Our key priority is the planned new Library which we aim to start building in 2014/15; however, we cannot achieve this without your help. Many former pupils and friends of Culford and the East Anglian Schools have shown great generosity in the past; a number continue to do so and we remain extremely grateful to them. Culford would not offer the exceptional facilities it does today without such support and it has enabled us to offer our pupils the best possible opportunities for learning, particularly in science, sport, music and drama.

The aim of The 20:12 Club is to secure 20 donors of £12,000 (which reduces to £9,600 with Gift Aid) and 12 donors of £20,000 (£16,000 with Gift Aid). Payments to the Club may be donated across three years in regular instalments. The 20:12 Club marks the year in which the Campaign and project planning was undertaken and all donors to the Club will have their chosen name(s) A further aspect of the Library project is the refurbishment commemorated permanently at the entrance to the new and upgrading of the Hastings and Skinner building, next Library or as part of a landscape feature such as a sculpture. to which the new Library will sit. This building has served the We have secured two gifts for each category at launch. school well for over 50 years and was recently transformed The Culford Oak Donor Tree is a beautiful work of art with a new pitched roof. It is now, however, in need of significant internal improvements and landscaping works to located outside the Headmaster’s study with one hundred brass leaves available for sponsorship and dedication. Each truly make it a part of the new Library quad and academic leaf costs £2,500 (£2,000 with Gift Aid) and payments may heart of the school. be spread across 3 years, for example 36 monthly donations Another important project within the campaign is the of £70, (or £55 with Gift Aid). Leaves will be displayed in redevelopment of a large studio in the Art Department. perpetuity in the new Library once built, and all donors will The new Foundation Art Gallery has created a wonderful be invited to the celebratory opening event. More than a entrance and display area with a real “wow factor”; we dozen leaves have already been sponsored. now need to complete the building with a large, light Of course, a one-off gift or regular donation by Standing teaching space in which our enthusiastic artists can work. Order or Direct Debit, for an amount of your choosing, Our last fundraising campaign was over 10 years is also very much welcomed. Regular gifts can add up ago; we now hope that the Culford community will significantly over time and there is no minimum period for consider supporting the new Campaign for Culford such gifts. by making a gift within their means to the Culford You might also consider making Culford a Gift in your Will; Foundation. This will enable us to ensure that we since we are a registered charity, any legacy to Culford continue to offer the best possible education to School is free from UK inheritance tax. current and future generations of Culfordians. To request a comprehensive information pack about our ambitions within The Campaign for Culford and for further details of our fundraising initiatives, please telephone There are many ways in which potential donors may choose to support The Campaign for Culford. These include +44 (0)1284 385306 or email: jjm@culford.co.uk Full details are also available to view on our website: Naming Opportunities for gifts in excess of £50,000, www.culford.co.uk/Campaign The 20:12 Club for gifts of £20,000 and £12,000 and

Making a Gift

The Culford Oak Donor Tree. 18

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Thank You

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A New Library We intend to build a landmark Library at the academic heart of Culford. Providing exceptional study facilities, including a flexible lecture theatre, this will be an inviting space where pupils can research, investigate and develop their independent learning skills.

A Refurbished Hastings and Skinner Building The development will include a new entrance with a landscaped garden, terrace and pathways leading to the William Miller Science Centre and the new Library. In addition, the interior to the building will be thoroughly refurbished.

Culford Hall The Workman Library now complete, our aim is to refurbish the teachersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Common Room, the current Library (once the dining room) and the Hartley wing. We also wish to install a professional kitchen.

A New Kitchen and Dining Facility The kitchens have been redeveloped to meet all our catering needs, including supplying 1,250 meals daily. We now aim to refurbish the Ashby dining hall itself.

A Redeveloped Art Department Phase 1, the creation of a stunning new gallery space for exhibitions, is complete. Phase 2 aims to remodel the teaching studio with a new roof with large skylights and French windows to the front, overlooking a landscaped garden and Culford parkland.

KEY TO THE CAMPAIGN PROJECTS

Mapping the Developments

The Campaign for Culford

BUILDING ON EXCELLENCE FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS

Acknowledgements and Thanks The Culford Foundation wishes to thank all those individuals, families, funds and trusts whose support through donations and other gifts enables Culford to thrive. We are, and continue to be, grateful for all the support we receive. We would also like to express our special thanks to anonymous donors, to those who have made pledges for the future through legacies and other means, and to all our supporters who give of their time and friendship to the School.

Recent OC and OEAS Donors (2012/13 and 2013/14 to date) 1930s Mr Rex Stevens (1934 – 1938) Dr Jack Bungard (1935 – 1939) Mr and Mrs Derrick Fenning (1935 – 1939) Mr John Bennett (1936 – 1939) Mr Peter Chappell (1936 – 1940) 1940s Mr Colin Roberts (1937 – 1944) Mr Anthony Stockley (1939 – 1944) Mrs Mary Bennett (1942 – 1945) Mr Dick Starling (1939 – 1947) Mr Neville Hibberd (1941 – 1947) Mr Michael Platten (1941 – 1947) Mr Don Dorling (1941 – 1948) Mrs Janet Hartley (1946 – 1948) Mr Anthony and Mrs Joy Childs (1944 – 1949) Reverend John Searle (1940 – 1950) Mr Michael Taylor (1944 – 1950) 1950s Reverend Gordon Lemmon (1943 – 1951) Mr Peter Scates (1945 – 1951) Mr John Hercock (1946 – 1951)

Mr Ian Newton (1945 – 1953) Professor Harry and Mrs Adrienne Watson (1949 – 1959) Mrs Daphne Ten Hove (1954 – 1959) 1960s Mr Bill Hudson (1955 – 1963) Mr Christopher Finch (1958 – 1964) Mr Nigel Aitkens (1959 – 1964) Professor Don White (1958 – 1965) Mr Brian Scott (1958 – 1966) Mr Nicholas Coates (1960 – 1966) 1970s Mr Arthur Diaper (1962 – 1970) and family Mr Michael Bennett (1969 – 1976) 1980s onwards Mr Bill Farrant (1974 – 1981) Mrs Elizabeth Green (1974 – 1981) Mr Richard Poole (1974 – 1981) and family Mr Ryan O’Connell (1997 – 2002) Anonymous Family Trust All anonymous donors

Studio Theatre Seats

Gifts in Kind

To help raise funds towards the restoration of Culford Hall and the continuing development of music and drama, we offer the opportunity to sponsor a seat in the Studio Theatre for £250. We now have 40 seats available to sponsor with a dedicated name plaque, which remains for the life of the chair. Our sincere thanks goes to all those who have already sponsored a seat(s):

Family; The Farrant Family; Celia Gordon; The Gregory Family; Douglas Gunary; Janet Hartley; Julian and Jo JohnsonMunday; The Old Culfordian Association; Susanne Kohl and Family; James A P Martin; George H P Martin; Freddie K J Martin; Bill Nunn; Neil Osborne; John Page and Joanne Norris; Lesley Robinson; Anthony Stockley; Michael B Taylor; Irwin Warrell; John Trevor Waterman.

Nellie Adjaye (née Annan); Basil Ambrose; W D Bannister; David Beech; Judy Beech; John and Mary Bennett; John Branczik; Mr and Mrs Brown; Culford Senior School Parents Association; Arthur Diaper and

If you would like to sponsor a seat, please contact the Foundation team on 01284 385310 or email foundation@culford. co.uk. Thank you.

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Staff, Governors, Parents and Friends Mr Ian Angus Air-Vice Marshal Steven Abbott and Mrs Patricia Abbott and family Mr S.K Asiama and Mrs Okuneye-Asiama Mr John Bridges and Family Mr John Bristow Mr Anthony and Mrs Louise Crane Mr Martin Hammond Mr John Humphries Mr Julian Johnson-Munday Mrs Jo Johnson-Munday Mr Tim Matthews Major Ian Mosedale Mrs Lesley Robinson Mr and Mrs Fred Rynsard Professor Roy and Mrs Doreen Swanston Mrs Samantha Salisbury Mr Michael and Mrs Sarah Schofield Group Captain Jason and Mrs Nana Sutton The Revd Canon Graham Thompson

Our sincere thanks to the following individuals and businesses who have given gifts in kind: Mrs Justine Ferrari; Mrs Celia Gordon; Mr Chris Newell; Mr Nick and Mrs Carmen Preston; Mr David Simmons; Mr David Spark; Mr Paul Swanson; Mrs and Mrs Derek Thompson. Also to: 4i Water Services Ltd; Adnams; Aubyn Davies; Baines Design; Bower Fuller; Edwards & Blake; Seamans Building.

From the Headmaster, December 2013 Dear Alumni and Friends

Thanks for Archive Material and News A huge thank you also goes to all those friends of Culford who regularly keep the Foundation up to date with OC and OEAS news and for their generosity in helping to build the school archives. We would particularly like to thank Geoffrey Doubleday and John Gray.

The OCAs We would particularly like to record our thanks to all former pupils who have given via the Old Culfordian Association. The OCA was wound up at the end of 2010 as it was recognised that the Foundation had taken on virtually all of the Association’s activities. Through this fund, the OCA continues to sponsor School prizes, which are awarded at Speech Day, and in 2013 a major contribution was made towards the refurbishment of the Workman Library and the new Foundation Art Gallery. All of those who were donating a subscription were written to during 2011, where we had an address, and given the option to continue or to cease their regular payment. The OCA Council have asked that we do not publish individual names here but we should like to thank you all for what you have given. You know who you are! Thank you.

Every year at Culford is, of course, one of development and change, but the variety of what we do here sometimes makes it difficult to reflect on the scale of that. This time last year our First XV were in the midst of an unbeaten season; we were preparing for Beauty and the Beast which turned out to be the best school musical I have ever seen; we were reflecting on the highs of that term’s Vocal and Orchestral Concerts; and delighted to see so many Old Culfordian and East Anglian girls back for the successful opening of our second girls’ boarding House, Fitzgerald, in the same term that we marked 40 years of girls at Culford. A year on sport, music, drama and the boarding education that we offer all continue to go from strength to strength. We have, however, seen a number of significant changes to our Common Room. Many of you will remember younger versions of the colleagues who have retired within the last twelve months after making enormous contributions to Culford. Robert Davie arrived in 1979 to teach physics, but soon had his fingers in too many other pies to mention. If there was a knotty issue that required a thoughtful, logical and unflappable approach Robert was the man to whom colleagues turned. He ran the timetable and the examinations system for many years, as well as the activities programme; and it is probably through that and his teaching that most alumni will remember him. James Recknell also arrived at Culford in 1979 as Director of Music and many alumni who have performed or sung with him will recall his kindly tolerance but demanding standards. James wore his own accomplishments lightly and I suspect that not all pupils understood just how fine a musician he is. There was never anything of the show-off; James simply placed his talents at the disposal of others. We are delighted that we have managed to appoint a worthy successor to him in Peter Burge and are confident that James’ baton is in safe hands. Finally, Bron Recknell arrived at Culford in 1980, as Bronwen Jones. Bron will be remembered by many for her history teaching, but by more for her outstanding attributes as a Housemistress. From 2004, it was Bron’s stewardship of Jocelyn House that saw numbers reach a point where it was inevitable that we would have to open a second girls’ boarding House. Many girls will remember Bron’s kindness and the success of girls’ boarding here is a fitting tribute to her. I am hoping to persuade Robert, James and Bron to all attend the London Drinks Reception next April at the Royal Thames Yacht Club in Knightsbridge, and I hope that a good number of alumni will be able to catch up with them there. Their departures are a reminder that, at their best, schools are not institutions, but communities. The reason that our pupils succeed in academic study, sport and the creative and performing arts, is because our teachers provide a supportive community here. Whatever fresh challenges this year brings, our success will be built upon such relationships.

Julian Johnson-Munday MA MBA Headmaster

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News from the School

Drama at Culford

I have had a dream, past the wit of man to say what dream it was.

‘Bottom’ in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Act IV, Scene 1

The latest in a long line of successful school plays, Senior School pupils amazed a spell-bound audience last autumn with their edgy production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. This was a sophisticated and contemporary staging of one of Shakespeare’s most popular comedies, with atmospheric lighting and a professional set, all of which highlighted the talent of the cast in Culford’s superb two-tier Studio Theatre. A standing ovation on the last night testified that this was a production the cast and crew should be proud of, and showed us all how Shakespeare, when done well, can appeal to an audience of any age.

Très Belle!

For all the dazzling West End costumes, impressive sets and well-judged technical elements, it was the cast’s performances that made this Beauty and The Beast such a superb evening. The principals rose to the occasion admirably, such is the professionalism instilled by Culford’s Director of Drama, Maria Kane, who commented “As stunning as the set and costumes were, it truly was the performances of the pupils that made this a professional and enchanting show.” The cast showed a fine appreciation of comic timing and had clearly worked hard with Musical Director, James Recknell, to deliver the songs confidently in character.

Jack Godden (2004 - 2013) played Bottom in A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Proms in the Park, June 2014

In Summer 2014, Culford plans to host its very own Proms in the Park. The School will play host to a well-known operatic company, who will lead the way during a special gala performance. For further details about the event which will raise money for The Campaign for Culford, please contact the Foundation Office on 01284 385310.

Alice in Wonderland

Culford’s Fourth Form’s summer production of Alice in Wonderland was performed in the fantastic setting of Culford Park over two nights at the end of May. A cuckoo sang right on cue to herald the opening performance on a near perfect early summer’s evening. It was a particular joy to watch the open air performances with the leafy parkland surrounding Culford Hall lending itself perfectly to the comings and goings of Carroll’s cast of fantastical creations. Even when poor weather forced one of the performances into the Studio Theatre, the production proved no less slick or effective.

Alice in Wonderland, as performed on Speech Day 2013

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News From the School

www.culford.co.uk/foundation

Major General Farewell from Lesley Robinson, Culford School Archivist (1999 - 2014) Inspects Culford CCF On 3rd September 1999, I reported nervously oxygen bottle, maker’s plate, a swatch of to Mrs June Peck, the School Librarian; I need not have worried because June made me feel so welcome and at ease. June left two years later and since then I’ve worked with Lesley Martin, our School Librarian, and I have enjoyed her company equally. Culford School has never been just my employer. My mother had not long died when I was appointed Archivist and Assistant Librarian and, whether they knew it or not, the Culford community helped me enormously, and now those sad days are long in the past. The children here are exceptionally friendly, often surprising, and always fun to be with. Each July I’m always very sad to see pupils leave, but, as consolation, there’s the new Fourth Form crop to get to know. As for caring for the archive, it’s been incredible. In our archive we can find: an

seating and piece of cord from the German bomber shot down over Culford Park in 1940; the tiny spade used by Princess Louise in 1904 to cut the first sod for the South Front copper beech; and I was even allowed to borrow the brass name plate for the B17 steam locomotive named ‘Culford Hall’ for an exhibit in 2004. School photographs from 1924, portraits, paintings, trophy cups, chemistry glassware, Culford crockery and teaspoons, magazines from 1893, timetables, promotional literature, books and diaries, a servant’s calling board, a stuffed bittern, a kiwi and a legion of other items have all, somehow, made their way to the archive.

Culford was delighted to welcome Major General Nicholas Caplin CB as inspecting officer to this year’s annual CCF (Combined Cadet Force) Inspection, which took place at the end of the spring term and concluded with a formal, candlelit dinner resplendent with ceremonial silver, in the Old Hall. General Caplin is currently serving as Senior Directing Staff (Army) at the Royal College of Defence Studies.

I want to acknowledge the help I’ve received over the years: Mr and Mrs JohnsonMunday for their wonderfully keen interest and “can do” attitudes; Mrs Susanne Kohl, Mrs Sarah Carter and Mrs Anne Bloomfield for their superior knowledge of the history of the East Anglian School for Girls before it moved to Culford; Culford staff, kind souls like Robert Davie, Bronwen and James Recknell have all given me so much; Celia Gordon and Sophie Hadgraft took time to sort out the pupil files from the artefacts, a complicated job that I would never have accomplished alone. I can’t thank all these people enough but I hope they will know how much I appreciated all they did for Culford School and, in a very roundabout way, me. Lesley Robinson will retire in 2014.

Maj Gen Nicholas Caplin CB

Scholars’ and Gifted & Talented Programme

Culford’s Scholars’ Programme is designed to stretch and challenge pupils and further engage their academic interests across a broad spectrum of subjects. The events are open to all pupils and many are also open to the general public. The 2013/14 programme of guest speakers explores with students the relevance of politics.

Autumn term guest speakers included Professor AC Grayling who captivated the audience with a talk entitled simply ‘Politics and Philosophy’. Professor Grayling is the author of around 30 books on philosophy, founder of the

New College of Humanities, London and a Supernumerary Fellow of St Anne’s College, Oxford.

is Serving the Public Interest’. Nick is currently the serving MP for Enfield North.

In January 2014 we are delighted to welcome back two Old Culfordians to talk to the school as part of the Scholars’ Programme. Nick de Bois MP (1967 – 1977) will talk about ’Politics and the Nick de Bois Media: Who

In February 2014, Lee Presland (1984 – 1986) will talk about ‘The Politics of Policing Crime’. Lee is currently a Senior Investigating Officer at the Metropolitan Police.

Lee Presland

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Comings and Goings Comings

Culford is pleased to welcome the following new staff. Coming from Moira House Girls’ School where he was Director of Music, Peter Burge joined Culford in the same role in September 2013. Peter teaches music and conducts a variety of ensembles Peter Burge in the Senior School. New initiatives already this term include a House Singing competition and the Britten Centenary Concert in November involving pupils, staff and The Culford Choral Society. Jessica Kaye joined us from King William College, Isle of Man as Housemistress of Jocelyn House in 2012 and teaches Religious Studies, History and English. She was previously at Benenden and Haileybury.

We were sorry to see the following members of staff leave in 2013, and wish them all the best in their retirement or future careers: Jessica Kaye

James Tyler

After a career in the RAF as fast jet aircrew on Phantom and Tornado aircraft, Robbie Hamilton now teaches Maths and is a form tutor in Edwards House having joined us from Gordonstoun.

Previously, an Economics teacher and Housemaster at Kelly College, Dominic Tomalin joined Culford as Head of Economics and Business Studies, and also Head of Further Education. Before becoming a teacher Dominic was an Acting Officer and Troop Commander in the Royal Engineers. John Bauer joined Culford as the new Head of Physics. Previously, John has taught at Bishop’s Stortford College and at Kesteven & Grantham Girl’s School after spending many years as an Education Officer in the RAF. Also new in the Physics physics department is Joshua Fox, who taught at King Edward VI School in Bury St Edmunds. He also has a degree in music technology, and plays guitar, tuba and trombone.

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After saying goodbye to hockey professional Stephen Dick when he returned to his native Scotland the school welcomed Leonie Kammejier, a hockey professional and international referee for a number of years following a successful career in the Dutch National Leagues.

Goings

James Tyler joined the Senior School as Head of ICT in September 2012. James is also a tutor in Cornwallis House and is a qualified pilot actively involved in the Culford CCF as an RAF section officer.

Previously Head of PE at a local middle school, Mark Bolton joins Culford Prep as Director of Sport and Activities. Mark also had a ten year career as a professional rugby player, both league and union, and Mark Bolton played internationally; he is therefore well qualified in his other new role as the Senior School’s Director of Rugby. Charlotte Olley also joined the PE department and is a resident tutor in Jocelyn House.

Robert Davie arrived in September 1979 as a teacher of Chemistry, Physics, General Studies and, through residential work in various boarding houses, found that Culford became his ‘second home’. He says, “I was fortunate to experience a kind of ‘regeneration’ when the William Miller Bristol-Myers Building opened in 2001 and the focus for Science moved from Skinner.”Some fifteen summer holidays provided quiet days for school timetabling. James Recknell became Director of Music in 1981 after joining the school in 1979. After innumerable carol services, musicals, plays, concerts and countless renditions of the School Song, it is hard to imagine Culford without him. Beyond Culford, James has conducted the Culford Choral Society for over 30 years and developed strong links with Bury Cathedral choir.

James remains at Culford as Head of Keyboards. When Miss Roberts, now Bronwen Recknell, originally from North Wales, arrived in 1980 to teach History and Geography and to be a resident tutor in Storey House, she did not plan to stay for long. However, her marriage to James Recknell in 1983 means that she has remained for 33 years. Generations of Culford pupils have thrived under her care in the academic departments and in the pastoral environments of Fitzgerald, Storey and Jocelyn where she has been Housemistress. She continues to teach some lessons in the EAL department. In summer 2013, Old Culfordian and Prep Head of PE and Games Richard Pineo (1991 - 1993) left Culford with his wife, Jo, who was Head of Pre-Prep Games, for a new position at Ampleforth College as Assistant Director of Sport. Richard and Jo’s enthusiasm for their subject made them popular with staff and pupils alike. Richard and Jo also welcomed a new arrival on 13 September 2013, Isabelle Rose, their second daughter. Nick Cox joined Culford in 1989 as a teacher of French and German and as a resident tutor in Storey House. In 1997 he was appointed Head of German. His aptitude and versatility as a teacher enabled him to prepare pupils in both Prep and Senior Schools for three everchanging external examinations in several languages. He also took the time to support overseas pupils in gaining qualifications in their own language. Dee Copping joined Culford in 1998 as Head of the Special Needs department. Under her vision and leadership, Special Needs developed into an effective and vibrant Learning Support department. Now, after 15 years at Culford, she has retired fully and is looking forward to spending more time with her two grandchildren.

L-R Robert Davie, Bron Recknell, James Recknell

Foundation News and Events Meet the Foundation Team

www.culford.co.uk/foundation

Calendar of Events 2014

Founded in 2000, the Foundation has the twin aims of friend-raising and fundraising for Culford School. The past year has seen several exciting changes starting with the team relocating to the refurbished part of Hartley wing in Culford Hall in January 2013. In the spring we sent out our first edition of the Hartley E-Newsletter and launched Culford Online, the interactive online directory which enables OCs and OEAs to connect with each other. Then, in June the school’s first fundraising campaign in ten years, The Campaign for Culford, officially began (see p 17 for more details).

OC Annual London Drinks, Royal Thames Yacht Club

(L-R) Seated: Jo Johnson-Munday (Foundation Director), Samantha Salisbury (Foundation Manager); Standing: Jessica Glover (Foundation Assistant), John Humphries (OC Liaison Officer) and Kirsten Perry (Database Manager)

Boys’ Hockey: Headmaster’s XI v Old Culfordians and Girls’ Netball v Old Culfordians

Wednesday 30 April

1881 Society Lunch June tbc

Proms in the Park, Culford Park Saturday 21 June

Tea for Two, Culford Hall Thursday 9 October tbc

Act of Remembrance, Culford Hall Tuesday 11 November

OC Sport Events

Saturday 11 January

Cricket: 1st XI v President’s XI Saturday 24 May

New Rugby Scoreboard

OC Golf Summer Meeting, Flempton Golf Club

The Foundation is delighted to unveil the new Culford rugby scoreboard which was installed in time for the first home game of the season against Colchester Royal Grammar School on Saturday 21 September; a match which Culford 1st XV won 46-17. Funded by a donation from the Old Culfordian Association, the scoreboard is easily visible by players and spectators and is a fitting addition to Culford rugby, especially given the school’s unbeaten season last year.

Friday 27 June

Cricket: 1st XI vs Old Culfordians Tennis vs Old Culfordians Saturday 28 June

For more information or to join in any of the above events please contact us on 01284 385310 or email: foundation@culford.co.uk

Roof Repairs

Receive Regular News Online!

In 2012, an anonymous Family Trust once again generously supported the continuation of work on the south elevations of Culford Hall, enabling further restoration work to the roof and the balustrading. Work is now taking place on the roof over the Hartley wing and we are extremely grateful for the Trust’s support; with their help we have managed to complete essential work on the Hall which would have otherwise fallen entirely to the School.

Are You Part of Culford Online?

Former pupils, staff and friends can now register with Culford Online to discover old friends and acquaintances and make new ones. Culford Online is an updated version of Culford Reunited, which is no longer in use. Alumni who were previously registered on Culford Reunited will need to register for Culford Online but it is a very simple process! New online facilities will be added soon, including the ability to book events and make donations to the school easily and securely.

The Foundation now sends a bi-monthly email newsletter, Hartley News, to all those we have email addresses for. To receive it, please register with Culford Online and check the newsletter option under ‘Communication Preferences’ or send us your email address today: foundation@culford.co.uk

Register between November 2013 and January 2014 and you have the chance to win a limited edition print of Culford Hall, worth £125. Please visit www.culford.co.uk/culfordonline now to register. Search for Culford School OCs

Culford School Alumni Group

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Pictures from the Past

A Glimpse into the Culford Archives: The 1960s Culford is fortunate to have plenty of archival publications, photographs and more in our vaults. Here we share a few special images that FOCuS readers may find interesting, or that may even spark a few memories!

The 1st XV from 1961

This image of the rugby 1st XV from 1961 was kindly supplied by John Bolden (1957 - 1962). If you have any images of Culford or the East Anglian Schools which you would like to share with us then please do get in touch.

Back Row L-R: J.H.A Roberts (Touch Judge), C.E. Jewers, D.W. Dawson, G.V.Spaull, J.C.A Barrett, G. Newbon, J. Bolden, J.R.L. Lister. Seated L-R: R.F. Evans, D.J. Slater, J.H. Branczik, T.W.L. Bailey (Captain), R.N. Lloyd-Evans, P.J. Tregear, A.K.M. Rose. Front Row L-R: F.T. Painter, R. Pryce, D.G. Clarke.

Culford School Common Room, June 1963

Robert Crosthwaite (1959 - 1966) kindly sent us this photograph of the staff at Culford during his time at the school. Dr Christopher Storey, Headmaster, sits in the centre surrounded by his Common Room and other colleagues.

Back Row L-R: Mr Boughton (Tuck Shop Manager), Mr Knight (Warden Main School, Maths Master), Mr Smales (French Master, Hockey Coach), Mr Borley (Assistant Bursar, Rifle Club Founder), Lt Colonel Conran (Bursar), Mr Simmonds (Geography, French Master, Hockey Coach), Mr Thompson (Senior Biology Master and i/c School Gardens), Mr Harre (Senior Physics Master, Rugby and Cricket Coach), Revd Hiscox (Chaplain, Scripture Master), Mr Legg (Senior Maths Master, Hockey Coach), Mr W.E.M. Smith (Latin Master, Rugby and Cricket Coach). Middle Row L-R: Mr K.S. Smith (Junior Boys Teacher, Cadogan House), Miss Hare (Junior Boys Teacher, Cadogan House), Mrs Dutton (Secretary to Headmaster), Mr M.D.S. Berry (Biology, Chemistry, Physics Master, Senior Scout Master, Rugby, Cricket Coach), Mr Wayman (Music Teacher, Piano, Violin and Double Bass), Mr Lane (Maths Master, Assistant Scout Master Rugby, Cricket Coach), Mr Chester (Woodwork, Metalwork and PE Master, Football and Basketball Coach), Mr Bowditch (English Master, Junior Scout Master, Rugby Coach), Mr S. Berry (German Master, Junior Air Scout Master), Miss Long (Kindergarten Teacher), Secretary to the Bursar, Mr Frewer (History and English Master, Rugby Coach). Front Row L-R: Mr Murray (English, PE and Basketball Master, Senior Rugby Coach), Mr Strong (Music Master, School Organ Teacher), Mr Hague (Senior Chemistry Master), Mr White (English and English Literature Master, Dramatic Society), Mr Corin (Deputy Headmaster, Senior Latin Master and Cricket Coach), Dr Storey (Headmaster, Languages Master and President of Societies), Mr Farr (Senior Geography Master, Hockey Coach and Camera Club President), Mr Stokes (Senior French Master, Senior Hockey Coach), Mr Watson (Senior History Master, Rugby, Cricket Coach), Mr Mathers (Art Master and stage designer), Mr Trussell (Warden of Cadogan House, Woodwork Master, Rugby Coach).

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Newsbites

www.culford.co.uk/foundation

A News Round-up from OCs & OEAs David Morley (1940 - 1947) wrote to say he still remembers his first day and Miss Kath Long, who taught him joined-up handwriting. Although initially intending to farm, David decided to go into engineering and left the farming to his two younger brothers, Rex (1940 1948) and Robert (1945 - 1952).

In April 2012, Ian Grenville Cross QC (1959 - 1969) was appointed by the President of the International Association of Prosecutors (of which Ian is a Senator for Life) Ian Grenville Cross to chair the newlycreated Standing Committee on Prosecutors in Difficulty (SCPID), which investigates and aids requests for assistance from prosecutors internationally. In 2011, he was also elected to be the Vice-Chairman of the Association’s Senate, which is a body of senior prosecutors from around the world, based at the Hague. Previously, Ian was Director of Public Prosecutions in Hong Kong from 1997 to 2009. Alan Atkinson (1960 - 1967) retired in 2011, after more than 20 years with Shell Oil. Now based in the Peak District, he has lived in France and Scotland. After gaining a Law Alan Atkinson degree and several post-graduate qualifications, he recently completed an MA in First World War History. He has enjoyed playing bass and rhythm guitar in various bands, though his ‘greatest joy’ is two grown-up daughters. David Ball (1963 - 1973) married Judy in 1979, with sons Daniel (1982) and Christopher (1984) following. They have lived mainly in Wisbech, where he practised as a solicitor, after qualifying from the College of Law in Guildford. He stepped down as Managing Partner of Fraser Dawbarns in 2011 and will retire fully at the end of this year. Daniel is a partner in the firm.

Peter Last (1970 - 1977) qualified as a Chartered Accountant then specialised in insurance in London and Bermuda. He had an eight month sabbatical in Africa before running his own recruitment business in Cambridge for ten years. Since 2002, he has worked in International Development, with projects in Sudan, Pakistan, Iraq and Cambodia and is currently involved with a hospital in a remote part of Tanzania. Chair of Bury St Edmunds Tourism Group, Melanie Lesser (1975 1977), has become the Bury in Bloom Co-ordinator. This involves organising the sponsorship of roundabouts and hanging baskets. She was delighted when Duncan Haydon (1977 - 1986) of Melanie Lesser Seamans Builders agreed to sponsor a roundabout. The money raised has promoted a schools’ photography competition and the gardening project, ‘Young Green Fingers’. Andrew Long (1969 - 1978) ran the London Marathon in April in 5 hours 5 minutes. This was his first and he raised £7,000 for Breakthrough Breast Cancer. He lives in Fornham St Martin with his wife, Gina, and their seven Andrew Long children, three of whom came to Culford. His farm supplies onions and potatoes to major retailers and the couple are involved in many fundraising events including ‘Classic and Sports Cars by the Lake’. Sally Johnston (1976 - 1986) read PPE at Christ Church, Oxford, before a career making documentaries at the BBC. In 2003, she moved to Singapore. Having intended to be away from the UK only for a year or so, Sally is surprised to find herself

Headmaster, Sally Johnston (1976- 1986) and Jo Johnson-Munday in Hong Kong

still living in Asia. She is now based in Hong Kong, with three children, Gabriel, 9 and twins, Arthur and Tess, 7. Fiona McCulloch née Virgo (1987 - 1992) studied at St George’s Hospital Medical School, London, spent several years in Australia on emergencies, intensive care and helicopter retrievals before Fiona McCulloch working as a née Virgo breast specialist and general surgeon in Dumfries. She is retraining as a GP in Suffolk, involved with SARS (Suffolk Accident Rescue Service) and has two daughters, Murron and Isla. Visit www.sars999.org.uk for more information. Simon Babes (1985 - 1993) moved to Malaysia from London in August 2012 with his family, working for Sinclair Knight Merz, a multi-disciplinary engineering consultancy. Simon’s team is helping to plan Kuala Lumpur’s urban rail network, the proposed High Speed Rail line between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, a number of proposed toll roads and significant land use developments. He often travels to the Middle East and he has led the planning of pilgrim movements in and around the expanded Holy Mosque in Mecca since 2008. Simon was in London for only two years, returning from China in 2010 after six years in Shanghai. He continues to organise the Fifth Dinner Club Reunions; the 90th Anniversary Dinner will be held in 2016.

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Newsbites Raymond Lau (1991 - 1995) gained a Master’s degree at Imperial College, London, before joining MTR, the train transport provider. He was posted all over the world, recently spending Raymond Lau three years as Country Manager in the Middle East. He has returned to Hong Kong, with his wife and two children, as Business Development and Technical Manager. Acclaimed artist, Penelope Hope Deyhle (1995 - 1997), was awarded Artist of New Jersey 2012. She studied at Central Saint Martin’s in London, the School of Visual Arts in New York and then at Yale. Known for her trademark goldfish series, Penelope Hope’s painting collections also include landscapes and water based abstractions as well as a dinnerware collection. Visit www.penelopedeyhle.com After reading Philosophy at Cambridge and taking a Master’s degree in Classics at the University of Wales, Lampeter, Francis Young Francis Young (1992 - 1999) was appointed to The King’s School, Ely in 2004, where he is now Assistant Director of Sixth Form. His first book, English Catholics and the Supernatural 1553-1829, was published by Ashgate. Melissa McNeil (1993 - 2004) travelled to Tokyo in September 2012 to work as a trainee solicitor. While she was there Melissa not only worked, but also took part Melissa McNeil in and completed the Tokyo Marathon for Great Ormond Street Hospital, her first ever marathon. She became fully qualified in March and is now an Associate at Linklaters, dealing with financial regulation. Georgina Baskerville née Barker (1996 - 2000) went to Loughborough University to take a degree in Textiles and then freelanced. In 2006 she married

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Far left Georgina Baskerville née Barker (1996 - 2000) and far right Caroline Lyon née Barker (1996 - 2001), with their children

Edward Baskerville, an equity partner at TW Gaze in Diss. They now have Henry, 6; twins Guy and Hugh, 4; and Lydia born in October 2012. Meanwhile, Georgina’s sister, Caroline Lyon née Barker (1996 - 2001), went to work for Toyota in Bury St Edmunds. There she met her husband, Marc Lyon, who runs his own business, Nexus Energy. They married in 2007 and have a son, Alastair, 4, and Georgie or ‘Winnie’ who is 2.

Robert Petherick (1997 - 2006) and Charlotte Bell (1996 - 2005) are pictured here holding the RBS Six Nations Cup. Charlotte represents Sky as a communications planner for the digital advertising agency, Mediacom, while Robert works for the advertising sales team of the Daily Mail Online. They unexpectedly met in the reception area shared by their offices and now their work teams collaborate. James Ringer (2001 - 2008) travelled with fellow Old Culfordians around Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia before going to Exeter to study Business Economics. James Ringer Internships followed in private wealth management and fixed income applications. He is now part of the graduate scheme in the Global Economics team at Schroders.

Ed Bishop (2002 - 2008) visited the East Coast of Australia, Bangkok and Chang Mai. Following his gap-year, he attended the Royal Agricultural Ed Bishop University, Cirencester, studied for a degree in Property and played 1st XV Rugby. He now manages domestic and commercial clients, project design and oversees projects from £5,000 to over £50m for Polysolar Ltd in Cambridge. Michael Day (2002 - 2009) graduated from the University of Cambridge in 2012 with a BA in Natural Sciences. He then spent time Michael Day travelling in Eastern Europe before securing a position as a business analyst for Capital One and is based in Nottingham.

Bekkie Hatwell

Former Head Girl, Bekkie Hatwell (2004 2009), recently returned when she spent a week of work experience at the Prep School. Bekkie had taken a gap year to explore South-East Asia before going to Newcastle University to read Ancient History. She is now at the University of East Anglia on her PGCE specialising in Key Stage 1 and Lower Key Stage 2. Radek Luštický (2008 - 2010) is in his third year at Masaryk University in Brno, Czech Republic. Radek came to Culford as an HMC scholarship student. He is now studying Media, Journalism & Psychology. As a volunteer, he broadcasts weekly on the university student radio station and has also been on a work experience placement at the publicly-funded Radek Luštický Czech Radio.

Newsbites Katie Ewing (2005 - 2010) has just graduated from the University of Portsmouth with a first class degree in Sports and Exercise Science. She has been accepted on the Secondary PGCE in Physical Education course at the University of East Anglia, and hopes to do some travelling before she starts to teach.

www.culford.co.uk/foundation Flo is currently studying Music with Italian at Royal Holloway University of London.

Katie Ewing

Her classmate Annie Osborn Annie Osborn (2000 - 2010) has just finished her second year at Bristol University studying Animal Behaviour and Welfare. Annie is planning to do a Master’s degree Bex Selway in Global Wildlife Health and Conservation and afterwards hopes to work for a national or international conservation group. She has enjoyed some work experience locally with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust and with Natural England. Bex Selway (2006 - 2011) is working for a skincare company based in Needham Market and has a Marketing and PR role there. The organisation she works for owns SK Clinics & Spas, are the UK distributors of Pevonia and own their own-brand label Simply Beautiful Collection. Florence Taylor (1997 - 2011) has been lending her soprano voice to various events this year. In June she both took part in the Culford Choral Society’s Florence Taylor ‘Summer Soiree’ (1997 - 2011) singing and helped out at Cuford Choral with a Prep School Society’s ‘Summer concert directed by Soiree’ with Joe Dodd Nicholas Hopton, (2004 - 2011) Director of Studies.

Amy Milner

Amy Milner (2006 - 2011), in her second year studying French at King’s College London, has been awarded two commendations for her academic performance and contribution to the department. Away from university, Amy’s music still remains a priority. A talented singer songwriter, she has recently recorded a new track, Hurricanes. Listen to this and other songs on her new website www.amymilner.com

Alex Dobson (2007 - 2012) with Boris Johnson

Alex Dobson (2007 - 2012) is pictured here as a volunteer with the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, during the London 2012 Olympics. He is studying History at St Mary’s University College and also manages to work part-time at Twickenham Stadium, leading visitor tours in his role as a Student Ambassador.

Joseph Knowles (2003 - 2012) playing American football

FOCuS readers will recall that Joseph Knowles (2003 - 2012) was taking a ‘gap year with a difference’. His Culford-taught rugby skills assisted when representing Avon Old Farms, Connecticut, in both American football and wrestling. Before starting her degree course in French and Italian at St Hilda’s College, Oxford in October, Charlotte Harpur (2005 - 2012) enjoyed an exciting gap year. Charlotte Harpur She worked as an English assistant at Jean XXIII School, Metz in France for four months before travelling to New Zealand, Australia and South-East Asia.

Emma Devlin (1999 - 2013) and Alex Dobson (2007 - 2012)

Alex together with former Head Girl, Emma Devlin (1999 - 2013), were presented with their Gold Duke of Edinburgh Awards at St James’s Palace in September. The Earl of Wessex spent time talking to the winners before comedienne, Jo Brand, presented certificates. The Award takes 12 months to complete and covers the five areas of service, expeditions, skills, physical recreation and a residential project.

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We Remember

Lives Remembered It is with great sadness that we bring you the following obituaries:

Elizabeth Darby née Briggs (19262013) formed life-long friendships at EAS during its evacuation to Culford during the years of the Second World War. During her lifetime she remained in contact with various school friends including Stella Tandy, Anne Barker née Pickering, Janet Jacklin and Mary Bennett. After EAS, Elizabeth joined Barclays Bank in Norwich and subsequently enjoyed a busy life with her husband, Francis Darby, who farmed at Methwold in Norfolk. All three of their children were educated at EAS and Culford, Jane (1962-1971), Anthony (19631976) and John (1967-1976). The death occurred on 5 December 2012 of Betty Crawford (1929 - 2012), the widow of the late Chris Crawford, who was Head of Geography and pioneering Housemaster of Storey House. Betty was born into a farming family in Pebmarsh, south of Sudbury, came in 1955 as a matron in the Sanatorium at Culford, where she met Chris, then a resident member of staff. When they married, as the school contracts of the time demanded, they had to move. The couple went to Crewkerne in Somerset, where he took up an appointment, but three years later returned to Culford where their sons, Paul (1970 - 1978) and Mark (1972 - 1980) grew up. Betty became an assistant at the old village school and then ‘full-time’ as the first Housemaster’s wife to be resident in the Park. Roger Peake (1931 - 2012) thoroughly enjoyed school-life at Culford from 1942 to 1950 and was Editor of The Culfordian. National Service in the Royal Navy saw active service in the Suez Canal. He read Law at Cambridge and played rugby for his college, Clare. After graduation he became apprenticed at the United Steel Company. By 1969 he was Chief Accountant at the British Steel Corporation in Sheffield. One phase of his working life was to preside, as Director of the Round Oak Steel Works, over its closure and the developments of the Dudley Enterprise

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Zone and the Merry Hill Shopping Centre. Retirement in 1989, saw him fully active in village life and varied interests from his home in a village to the north-east of Ludlow, Shropshire. He had two sons from his two marriages.

Peter Stockley

Service was spent in the Army, mainly in Germany. He then served an apprenticeship with Ransomes and Rapier as an engineer. After an appointment in the nuclear branch of the General Electric Company, he took up a lectureship in Higher Education. Robin Dean

After leaving Culford in 1949, Robin Dean (1931 - 2013) served in the RAF and continued his love of flying with a private pilot’s licence. This enabled him to have aerial views of parts of southern Africa where he practised as a dentist. He had trained at Edinburgh University following his years at Culford where a love of organ and piano playing was encouraged. He was a committed Methodist and church organist throughout his life. A family man, married for 43 years, he leaves a widow, three children, four grandchildren and six greatgrandchildren. Family homes were in South Africa and Zimbabwe. Robin maintained interests in the Rotary and Probus Societies and was a founder of the St Helena Sandveld Hospice in Vredenburg. Incredibly active for much of his life, he died in his sleep on 17 March 2013 after a long illness. Tony James (1934 - 2013) joined in the Fourth form in 1948 and was immediately part of the School. He left to become a chartered accountant and ultimately became a partner at the Colchester office of PKF. His principal outside interest was sailing and he attained the position of Commodore of the Woolverstone Sailing Club. He leaves a widow, Jeanette, three children and three grandchildren. Peter Stockley (1931 - 2013) was a pupil from 1942 for seven years and distinguished himself as a pianist, playing for special occasions. National

He retired as senior lecturer specialising in computer-aided design from the Anglia Ruskin University in Chelmsford. Peter enjoyed playing the piano until he had a stroke early in 2013. He suffered deteriorating health, but showed great courage and cheerfulness in spite of being unable to speak or walk. He leaves a widow, Julia, daughters, Vivienne, Elizabeth and Annette and, son, Richard. After being a pupil at Culford from 1943 to 1949, David Nutman (1933 - 2012), spent most of his life at sea in the Merchant Navy and retired as a Captain on Container Ships sailing out of Felixstowe. On retirement, David was involved with the Mission to Seamen in Liverpool and had also been President of the Old Conways Training Ship Association. He leaves his wife, Brenda, two sons and four grandchildren.

Michael Eary

Michael John Eary (1934 - 2013) joined in 1942, played an active part in schoollife - appearing for the 1st XI Hockey and being Cross-Country Champion - before leaving for National Service in 1952.

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This involved a posting to Germany and then experiencing active service and difficult times on the 38th Parallel during the Korean War. His career took him from D Byford & Co. in Leicester, where he became their youngest ever Director, to Hong Kong for Dodwell International and latterly Inchcape Buying Services. On his return he set up the UK side of the business in Lutterworth. Following retirement in 1992 he engaged in business consulting, travel and golf. He leaves a widow, Mary, two sons and five grandchildren.

David Travers

Michael Prior

Full military service was the chosen career of Col David Travers (1946 - 2000). He left Culford in 1964, after seven years, and spent a year undertaking VSO work in Southern Rhodesia. Then came a stint with Sun Alliance in the City before he was attracted by a short-service commission in 1969 and was soon enrolled in the Royal Green Jackets, with tours in Northern Ireland and Germany.

Even when he was undertaking National Service with the Royal Artillery at Tidworth, Michael Prior (1935 - 2013) played a high standard of cricket. In his final year in the Senior School in 1953, having started at Cadogan House eight years before, he was the Captain of Cricket and had excelled at rugby and hockey. He came from a farming background and achieved a National Certificate in Agriculture at Writtle.

Postings to Caterham, Oxford and London followed, with responsibilities for recruiting and training as well as for the Mess. Here his social charm and legendary hospitality were appreciated. He supervised ‘fast track training’ in the Territorial Army and in the 1990s undertook comparable work with London Army cadets and the St John’s Ambulance Service. He was granted the Freedom of the City of London and, two days before he died, was created Knight of Grace of the Order of St John.

Michael ran the family farm at Gestingthorpe for over 50 years and had a remarkable cricketing record of turning out for the village team from the time he was 12 until 67 years of age. However, his sporting prowess took him far beyond on both the cricket and hockey fields. This included a regular place in the Suffolk County team and, years later, in an East of England Hockey XI when in his 60s.

Alistair Willman (1970 - 2012), who died suddenly on 23 November 2012 from heart failure, came from a military background, with his parents serving in the Royal Army Medical Corps in Singapore where he was born. He joined his brother, Tony, at Culford in 1977 and spent eleven years as a boarder before reading Russian at Essex University. He was in the former Soviet Union soon after the fall of the Berlin Wall.

Alistair Willman

Ali joined his parents at Alton, in Hampshire, set up a bookselling business dealing through the internet, worked part-time for Holybourne Rare Books, and played for local rugby and cricket clubs. With some dexterity he combined his interest and knowledge of literary matters and grammatical accuracy with reporting matches for the Alton Herald. His coverage of fixtures became acclaimed and his journalistic style was appreciated by many.

We also acknowledge, with much regret, the deaths of: Frank Danby (Unknown - 1943); Robert Downie (1942 - 1947); Francis Elkington (1930 - 1937); Ernest Gamble (1929 - 1934); Nick Mann (1965 - 1972); Michael Maries (1945 - 1949); Hilary McPherson (Former Staff) Norman Morley (1946 - 1953); Robert Mark Partridge (1938 - 1947); Revd Roy David Robinson (1939 - 1948); Anne Gloria Rose (Former Staff); John Frank Shildrick (1942 - 1950); Roger Waygood (1952 - 1957) For further details of those friends and colleagues who have passed away please register for Culford Online, www.culford.co.uk/culfordonline

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We Weddings Celebrate

Wedding Belles and Beaus Congratulations to Penelope Hope Deyhle (1994 - 97) who is engaged to Omar Huda El-Dalati and they will marry at the end of 2013 in New Jersey, USA. Both are independent business owners and currently live on the Jersey Shore; they are looking forward to spending time in London in 2014, for personal and professional reasons. Penelope Hope is also featured in Newsbites.

Joanna Hollins (1992 – 1997), Peter Hollins, David Hollins (1997 – 2003), Fran Kohn, Diana Hollins, (Head of French at Culford Prep) and Tim Hollins (1994 - 1999)

David Hollins (1997 - 2003) and Fran Kohn married on 31 August 2013 in a sheep field in the depths of North Wales. The weather was beautiful if breezy and guests joined in games of cricket, croquet, giant Jenga, pickup-sticks and dominoes while the photos were taken. Old Culfordians Seamus Phillips (1992 - 2006) and Geoff Fulcher (1990 - 2003) attended and camped with the bride, groom and other youthful guests after the party finished. Fran is competing with the UK Women’s White Water Rafting Team in the World Rafting Championships in New Zealand in November, so she and David will be having their honeymoon then.

Your Wedding at Culford If you would like information about holding your wedding ceremony at St Mary’s and the reception at Culford, please contact Crispin Muir, Operations Director, on 01284 385350 or visit www.culford.co.uk/facilities

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There were many OCs in attendance at Daniel Fisher’s (1990 - 1995) wedding to Lucy Barber on 14 September 2013 at Buxhall Church, Suffolk, even the vicar, Rev Chris Childs (1970 - 1977), went to Culford! Daniel’s best men were Peter Taylor (1988 - 1995) and Matthew Caddock (1985 - 1995) and their photographer was Peter’s brother Mike (1983 - 1990).

Anna Myram, Rev Chris Childs, Hannah Ellis née Crooks, Charlie Fletcher, Rob Elliott, George Ornbo, Fiona Miller née Hardwick, Andrew Davidson, Mike Taylor, Claire Marston, Sophie Underwood née Parry-Williams, Lucy Fisher née Barber, Nick Sawyer, John Crooks, Daniel Fisher, Matt Caddock, Olly Stennett, Jennie Fisher, Pete Taylor. Not in photo but present on the day were also Henrietta Hurll née Cobbold, James McNeil, Suzy Stennett née Jones.

Sam Taylor (2004 - 2006) married Matthew Crooks in St. Stephens Church, Canterbury, Kent on 22 June 2013. One of her bridesmaids was Elizabeth Kirk (1997 - 2006) and Emily Miles (1999 2006) also attended. Sam and Matthew went to Clearwater in Florida for their honeymoon. They met while studying at the University of Kent and now live in Canterbury where Sam works in marketing and Matt is a retail manager.

Lucy Rynsard and her bridesmaids

Paul Rynsard (1966-1970) proudly accompanied his daughter Lucy (1997-2005) down the aisle of Culford’s St Mary’s Church in June this year. A packed church of family and friends witnessed Lucy’s marriage to Ash Snowdon before a marquee reception in Bury St Edmunds. Lucy and Ash spent their honeymoon in The Maldives.

Elizabeth Kirk and Sam Crooks

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New Arrivals

Theodore Nunn

Hannah and Henry Head at Culford Hall for their reception

Hannah Cousins (1990 - 1999) married Henry Head on 27 July 2013 at St Mary’s Church, Ixworth and they had their reception at Culford School. The couple met in Richmond-upon-Thames, where they now live, when Henry was playing rugby for Richmond RFC with Hannah’s brother Luke (1994 - 2003). Henry is originally from near Salisbury, and the couple travelled around Uganda for their honeymoon. Michael Platten (1941 - 1947) married Malgorzata on the 21 March 2013 at Downham Market Registry Office

and again on 6 April at Narodzenia Panskiego Roman Catholic Church in Poland, after which the wedding party enjoyed a reception at Cafe Fantazja. Karolína Láchová (2004 - 2006) married Petr Hanuš on 7 September 2013 in a small mountain church in the Czech Republic. OCs Mercy Tung (2001 - 2006) and Anne Ungeheuer (2004 - 2005) attended the wedding. Karolina and Petr graduated together as Doctors of General Medicine from Charles University, Prague, in July.

Diamonds are Forever Alan Wilkinson (1937 - 1941) and his wife Margaret celebrated their Diamond Wedding Anniversary on 16 May 2013. After meeting through friends in 1952, Alan wooed Margaret with a rainy boating trip in Regent’s Park and they married at Dulwich College Chapel in 1953. He says “marrying Margaret was, for me, the best thing that I ever did”. Alan remembers his time at Culford fondly saying that he was very happy here.

Kate Nunn née Robinson (2002 2004) and her husband, Mark, had a son on 21 January 2013, Theodore Mark Geoffrey Nunn, weighing 7lb 1oz. Kate and Mark were married the day of Theodore’s christening on 18 August 2013 at St. Mary’s Church, Earl Stonham, Suffolk.

Nick Higgs with Emma and Faith

Nick Higgs (1997 - 2004) and his wife, Emma, had their first child, Faith Evelyn Higgs, born on 20 August 2013, at home in Plymouth, weighing 6lbs 7oz. All went well and both are enjoying parenthood. Emily Lee née Lawn (1995 - 2003) and her husband David have a new arrival, Elijah, who was born on 29 March 2013. He was 6lb 13oz and born at Frimley Park Hospital in Surrey.

Alan Wilkinson wedding

Johnathan Gordon (1993 - 1997) and his wife, Melanie, have a new arrival, their daughter Annemarie, who was born on 3 December 2012.

If you are getting married or expecting a baby next year then please do let us know so that we can include your news in the next edition of FOCuS. Please email foundation@culford.co.uk or telephone 01284 385310

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OC Sport

Sporting Events

OC Golf Summer Meeting at Flempton

If you would like to join in any sports events next year, please contact the Foundation Manager, Samantha Salisbury, on 01284 385310 or email foundation@culford.co.uk

This year Jeremy Lee (1948 - 1956) stepped down as President. His successor Bill Hudson (1955 - 1963), presented Jeremy with a gift during lunch thanking him for his long and successful presidency. The school provided a team who played alongside Senior Housemaster, Gavin Reynolds. Everyone was particularly delighted to see Peter Hudson (1955 - 1966) who had travelled all the way from Truro to play and support his brother.

OC Rugby In the shadow of the new Rugby scoreboard, the OC XV, captained by Matt St John (2005 - 2012) and Alex Lee (2000 - 2010), faced the Headmaster’s XV in a fast-paced and physical match. The OCs narrowly missed out on victory, with the School winning three points in the last few seconds of the game, the match ending with a 22-18 win to the School.

OC Tennis After a narrow victory last year, the OCs knew that they would not have an easy task playing against some of the best of the current Culford tennis players. Indeed, it was not to be a repeated victory, as the School eventually won, securing a total of eight matches to four. James Swanson, (2001 - 2008) captained the Old Culfordian team which included: Michael Day (2002 - 2009), James Elden (2004 -2011), Charlotte Harpur (2005 - 2012), Matt Hughes (2002 - 2012), Marco Mitev-Will (2006 - 2011), Amanda Shaw (1979 - 1985) and Paul Swanson (1996 - 2003).

OC Girls’ Hockey The girls’ team, captained by Emma Devlin (1999 - 2013) and Bex Selway (2006 2011), played a great game under the last of the summer sunshine. A good goal by Annie Osborn (2000 - 2010) still led to a final score of 7-1 to the School, not truly reflecting the effort put in by the OCs who kept competing right until the final whistle.

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OC Cricket: 1st XI v OCs

This year the team were treated to a warm, sunny day for the annual OC Cricket Match. Although the School XI were victorious Freddie Preston (2007 - 2012), last year’s School Captain, put together an excellent Old Culfordian team which included Nick Ivory (2005 - 2012), Chris Recaldin (2001 - 2010), Oliver Ferrari (2001 - 2009), Charlie Apter (2003 - 2010), Stuart Place (2006 - 2011) and Max Mason (2007 2012).

President’s Cricket As Culford tradition dictates, the President’s XI once again played the School on Speech Day. This year also marked the start of the tenure of a new President: Mr Andrew Morgan, a former Deputy Head (1985 2006.) The President’s team batted first and struggled against some good bowling from the School, who looked to be in a strong position to win the game until Richard Pineo (1991 - 1993) came back for his second spell of bowling. His accuracy and consistency proved too much for the School. The day ended with a dinner in which the President’s Cup was presented to Mr Morgan by the Headmaster.

OC Boys’ Hockey

The OCs started this match the stronger side and quickly dominated play with the likes of Will Riddleston (2005 - 2010) and Alex McCaffrey (2003 - 2011) distributing well from the back but the Culford keeper proved to be in fine form, ending the first half 0-0. The school fought back in the second half as the OCs started to tire, eventually winning the hard-fought game 3-0.

OC Netball

Jessica Pilo-Beech (2002 - 2012) organised an excellent OC team to meet the School which included five players from last season’s 1st team and two players from the year before, which made for a strong side who knew one another very well. The Old Culfordians were proud to be victorious for the first time in seven years with the match ending 33-20 to them.

BSE Hockey Club Partnership for Second All-weather Pitch Bury St Edmunds Hockey Club have teamed up with Culford School with exciting plans to provide the club with a permanent home venue. The aim is to build a new, sand-dressed, floodlit all-weather pitch for use by both the Club and School in the walled garden, adjacent to the Indoor Tennis Centre and close to the existing all-weather pitch. The Club needs to raise £600k for this state-of-the-art facility. They are approaching England Hockey, the Hockey Foundation and others for their support, as well as fundraising through social events and other initiatives in order to raise the necessary funds. David Johnson, Club President and Chairman of the Development Committee at BSEHC, said: “I am pleased to report we have established a new partnership with Culford School, who have kindly agreed to a lease to allow us to build a new floodlit

pitch in their ancient walled garden. Culford have already secured planning permission and now it is up to us to secure the necessary funding to get it built.” Clearly there is much still to be done but an important first milestone has passed. The Development Committee submitted a formal ‘Expression of Interest’ to England Hockey over the summer which has been well received. England Hockey have now requested a full application for funding. If all goes to plan, the pitch will be available for the 2015/16 season which heralds a bright future for hockey, both at Culford School and in the wider community. For more information, or to get involved in fundraising or make a donation, please contact Tony Bass, the Club’s Project Manager, by emailing newpitch@bsehockeyclub.co.uk

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Campaign Restoration Works

Wonderful Workman! The Workman Library has a stunning view looking west towards the cricket pitch, the iron bridge and the River Cul beyond. It is believed that this is the library where Charles Cornwallis, 1st Marquess Cornwallis, planned his fateful journey to America during The War of Independence. General Cornwallis surrendered 8,000 British men to French and American forces at Yorktown, Virginia, in 1781, an event which brought the revolution to a close.

The restored Workman Library

New furniture, books and statues have been added and a Culford family generously donated a full size billiard table also installed in the room. The only major project yet to be completed is the restoration to the faux leather books on the “secret” door which leads to the Headmaster’s study. The Workman Library was named in honour of the Rev Dr Herbert Brook Workman (1862-1951), a great Methodist friend and supporter of Culford and of the Headmaster, Dr John Skinner (19241951). Dr Workman served as a Circuit minister until 1903 when he was appointed Principal of Westminster College and in 1930 he was elected President of the Wesleyan Conference.

‘The Place for Quiet Work’, a cartoon by Alan Crosland (1945 – 1953)

When the East Anglian School for Boys moved out to Culford in 1935 this room became the library for the School. However, once the number of pupils had outgrown it, the Workman became less used and more worn by the passage of time, although many boys have fond memories of Workman, not necessarily for reading! (please see cartoon above). As part of The Campaign for Culford, a major refurbishment funded by the Old Culfordian Association, together with other generous gifts, has now transformed the room into a stunning reception space, perfect for welcoming visitors and guests to Culford.

He was a distinguished historian, lecturer and professor who was published extensively in the field of Methodism. In his role as a Governor, Dr Workman was instrumental in the school’s move out to Culford. Upon Dr Workman’s death Culford’s Headmaster, Dr Skinner, wrote: ‘No school has ever had a finer friend than Dr Workman; nor has the writer of these poor words. With all our hearts we thank God for the great work and the splendid life of so great a servant of His kingdom.’ Dr Workman is buried in St Mary’s churchyard. With the help of Dr Peter Forsaith at Oxford Brookes, we plan to hang a copy of the portrait the university holds of Dr Workman above the fireplace in this splendid room. When next you visit, the Foundation team would be delighted to show it to you.

Dr Workman by A.T. Nowell (1930), Oxford Brookes University Collection

The Culford Foundation makes reasonable efforts to include current and accurate information in FOCuS but makes no warranties or representations as to the accuracy of the published content. News of former pupils and colleagues is always welcome; please do keep in touch. Photo credits: Suzanne Abbott, Hufton + Crow, Warren Page, Tomek Piech, Red Shed Photography/Wendy Turner, Patricia Rayner/TfL, Viewpoint/Debbie Singleton

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The Foundation Office, Culford School, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP28 6TX Tel: 01284 385310 Email: foundation@culford.co.uk