The Culfordian Senior School 2015/16

Senior and Sixth Form

The

Culfordian

2015/16

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contents THE CULFORDIAN

Contents Speech Day ..............................................5 Common Room .....................................13 Academic Achievements......................... 17 Visual and Performing Arts ..................... 27 Trips and Activities.................................47 The Library One Year On ........................58 Community Spirit...................................61 House Reports.......................................68 Sporting Achievements........................... 77 Culford Foundation ..............................104 Positions of Responsibility....................106

Designed and printed

by The Lavenham Press Tel: 01787 247436

Editor: Lesley Martin Editorial Team: Anna Paterson and Michelle Davey With grateful thanks to all who contributed articles and photographs.

THE CULFORDIAN valete

2015/16

Valete The following Upper Sixth pupils completed their education at Culford this year. We wish them all well for the future and look forward to seeing them again at events and reunions.

Maria Andrews Constance Ash Edward Aylott Julia Berger Alexander Blumfield Miriam Braun Niall Buckley George Callaghan Katie Collier Harry Connor Dominic Corbett Harry Davies Bethany Deane Kieran D’Lima Daniel Ekpe Siqi Fang Edward Field

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Louisa Fisk Anna Flynn Elizabeth Fryer Chloe Gimson Henrike Goebel Thomas Guntrip William Hammerton Edward Harris Riana Harvey Milly Haydon Melissa Heybourn Eve Holder Lucy Holder Lucy Hollis Charlie Holt Phoebe Howe Christopher Howells

Sophie Jamil Michael Kimwele William King Elizabeth Knight Joan-Lukas KĂźmpers Eleanor Langley Christopher Lettin Hannah Littlechild Amelia Nunn Oliver Oulton Sophie Owles Ekaterina Pisareva Raul Rutnam Alexander Sanderson Martin Sharples Alina Shpak Emily Sim

Scarlet Simmons Cameron Southgate-Ash James Spratt Frederick Statham Jacob Sumner Sunny Teng George Terry Holland Thomas Jack Veitch Hannah Vickers Hugo von Bussmann Luiza Walaszczyk Emma Watson Ben Whittaker Vicky Yao Tayden Yuen Xuena Zhao

speech day THE CULFORDIAN

2016

Speech Day

S

peech Day was blessed with clement weather once again as the School gathered on 28 May to celebrate the achievements of the year. The Guest of Honour was Rev Canon Richard Norburn MBE, founder and Lifetime President of St Nicholas Hospice.

Following the prize-giving and speeches, the day continued with the usual wonderful buffet lunch on South Front of Culford Hall, accompanied by music from the Senior School Wind Band. Exhibition matches, CCF demonstrations, debates, concerts and the Art and DT exhibition gave visitors plenty to see and do before the strawberries and cream teas were served to round off the day.

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THE CULFORDIAN speech day address

Headmaster’s

Speech Day Address Vice-Chairman, Rev Canon Norburn, Governors, honoured guests, pupils.

W

e welcome our Guest of Honour Rev Canon Norburn.

It is a delight to have Richard and his wife Joyce with us today. Rev Canon Norburn has done so much to support the local community that to focus on one aspect of his work may seem churlish, but I hope he will forgive me if we do focus on the St Nicholas Hospice.

We live in an age where we take long life for granted. But that only makes the tragedy of those taken early seem more poignant and harder to understand, especially for the young. It also forces us to confront how we look after the elderly in their last years, months and days; and that is a responsibility we pass on to the young.

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speech day address THE CULFORDIAN

We have lost some good colleagues at Culford in recent years, taken from us before their time. It is not a casual statement, therefore, to say that we cherish the work of the Hospice; and I am delighted that we can thank Richard for his dedication to it by having him as our Guest of Honour today.

The last year has been an extremely good one. Academically pupils achieved fine results at A level with 26% of all grades being A* to A, 56% being A* to B, and 82% A* to C. At GCSE 51% of all grades were A* to A and 26% of pupils achieved at least 8 A* or A grades. This represents an enormous amount of hard work on the part of not only those pupils, but also the teachers who support them. The sporting life of the School has continued to go from strength to strength, not only in tennis and swimming, but with the girls making the national hockey finals and the boys winning the London Irish Rugby Sevens. Our new golf programme got off to a flying start and this term we have seen girls’ cricket make its overdue debut with a stirring U15 win against The Perse. Les Misérables was a

Natasha Day, Lower Sixth, Rev Canon Richard Norburn, Julian Johnson-Munday, Headmaster and James Barley, Lower Sixth

Samantha Salisbury, Foundation Manager, Paul Rynsard (OC 1966-1970), Julia Wakelam, Mayor of St Edmundsbury and Jo Johnson-Munday, Foundation Director triumph and the music department increased yet further the range and level of the concerts and recitals it produced.

Tennis has continued to loom large and is at such strength that both our girls’ and boys’ 1st teams have pre-qualified to the National Schools Championship Finals later this term, each being recognised as one of the top four sides in Great Britain. In addition, just yesterday, our girls’ 2nd team also won qualification to the Finals. After half-term our boys’ 2nd team faces a final qualifying match, so there is still the prospect that Culford will have an unprecedented four teams in the National Finals. We should congratulate not only our tennis players and other sportsmen and women, but also all who have met success and added to the richness of life at Culford over the past year.

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THE CULFORDIAN speech day address

At Speech Day in 2009 I noted that the recession would be long and hard but that it was also an opportunity and that we needed to work hard to weather whatever storms come and exit the recession ready to seize the opportunities on offer.

I said that if we were commercially astute and educationally driven we could emerge from the recession stronger and use it as

an opportunity to confirm our position as one of the leading independent schools in East Anglia.

This last year, as the economy has improved, we have fulfilled that promise.

Our new ÂŁ2.2 million library opened in September and has transformed the academic heart of the School, not only for the Senior

Samantha Salisbury, Foundation Manager and Jo Johnson-Munday, Foundation Director with Old Culfordian Ken Green (1938-1945), President of Suffolk Hockey Association

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School but also the Prep School who now use it for parents’ evenings and other events and for whom it is a fabulous addition to their facilities and a clear indication of the strength of being a through School.

I predicted that the pupils would help teach us how to use it and that has been the case; the building has shaped us as much as we have shaped it. The Sixth Form have reflected on how best to use the lecture theatre space as collaborative and quiet learning areas; and they have firm views on how much noise we should allow during the day. Colleagues have jumped at using the space and I delight to see pupils in English lessons reading in comfort in a relaxed setting, rather than behind desks in a classroom, supporting the idea that reading is a pleasure not a chore.

We have also, of course, now opened the building in the evening because we recognised that boarders would benefit from that. It also led us to reflect, however, on how to support day pupils and they too, therefore, can benefit from access to it in the evenings through our new extended day model.

speech day address THE CULFORDIAN

I repeatedly tell day parents that there are advantages to coming to a boarding school; I think I now have definitive proof. At what day school will you find a fully staffed library designed to meet your academic needs open until 8.30 every evening?

Frankly, in terms of being commercially astute and educationally driven, I think we could rest on the laurels of our library as evidence that we have pushed this School forward as the recession ends. The development of a second floodlit artificial hockey pitch has also been a huge leap forward. From September we will have two artificial turf pitches available for our pupils, doubling our provision there; and we will have increased tennis provision by 50% as we also open two new year-round courts as part of the project.

Could we thank, therefore, our support staff who put their all into making Culford the wonderful place and experience that it is for our pupils.

We also always thank the Common Room who teach our pupils, but first we give personal thanks to those who are leaving.

Dominic Tomalin has been at Culford since 2012 as our Head of Business Studies and Economics. Dom has not only done a terrific job there, however, but has also been

We recognise the vision of the Bury St Edmunds Hockey Club in bringing this project to fruition. We have been blessed to work with a club whose ambitions apparently match our own; and whose flexibility in working with us swiftly to access time-limited funding was a key reason for successful delivery of the project.

The hockey club has shown exactly the same combination of ambition and faith that saw Culford School established in this beautiful estate in 1935. This latest development is, therefore, not only entirely welcome, but also sits entirely within our traditions of vision matched by courage. I am delighted to thank

representatives of the club here today for their personal vision and courage in seeing the project through.

There are, of course, many other people whom I need to thank. When grounds and gardens always look immaculate, when Houses and classrooms are always tidy, systems and processes always well organised, medical centres always supportive, clothing always cleaned, food always fresh and plentiful, there is a tendency to assume that this is the natural order of the world. It relies, in fact, upon many willing people giving their time and dedication to us.

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THE CULFORDIAN speech day address

single-handedly responsible for creating the Life After Culford event that sets our Sixth Form thinking about their futures; and he has also run the University entry process for the School. His personal involvement with individual pupils has been much appreciated and his advice is always good. His reports to Governors on the UCAS experience each year have been models of clarity and are extremely useful as we anticipate and adjust to the ever-changing landscape that is university education. It came as no surprise that he was appointed as Vice-Principal of CATS Sixth Form College in Cambridge and we wish him well.

Rachael Ainscough has been a pillar of our biology department since September 2008. Her lessons have always been well structured, interesting and delivered with pace. We do know when pupils enjoy being taught by colleagues and Rachael is one of those teachers for whom pupils have real affection, both in the classroom and outside it in her role as a tutor. Again, therefore, it has come as little surprise that Rachael is to become head of science at Sancton Wood School in Cambridge. I know that she is very much looking forward to her new role and the challenges it will bring, and we all wish her well as she takes up that position.

where he has been a stalwart member ever since. In my first term I met every colleague to ask if there was any way I could support them. Culford’s CCF was born then, as after I tentatively observed that we lacked a unit, Guy ran with the matter. A few brief weeks later I had men in camouflage in my office telling me that we would have our own unit within the year. It was a fine example of seizing the moment and Guy not only seized it brilliantly, but has continued to develop and shape not only the CCF but also the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme and, more recently, our own versions for younger pupils in Pathfinders and Pioneers. In the midst of all that, Guy was also a successful Housemaster of our boys’ Day House, Robson, until growth led us to restructure our House model.

Guy Draper arrived at Culford just before me in April 2004 as our Outdoor Pursuits leader and as a teacher in the history department, Guy seems now to have found the perfect next step for his career; boarding Housemaster at Glenalmond College, a school that will value and enjoy his passion for the outdoors and for leadership and service. He will also have some lovely Scottish roads on which to use his motorbike. Hopefully, as an OC, Guy will be able to find excuses to come back to see us. In the meantime we wish him well.

There are relatively few teachers nowadays who deserve to be called colossi of their Common Rooms. John Byrne is, however, one of the few. John arrived at Culford in September 1993, some twenty-three years ago, and he retires at the end of this term.

If Rachael has been a pillar of biology and Guy a stalwart of history; what on earth has John been to the English department?

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speech day address THE CULFORDIAN

In many ways he has been the personification of what any English department should be, it seems to me: erudite, well-read, humane, thoughtful, convivial, wearing his knowledge lightly, eminently approachable, willing to discuss any interesting topic at the drop of a hat, and possessing a graceful sense of humour. He is in some senses what the young would probably call “properly old school”.

I don’t think his best friends would claim that John is obsessed with Attainment Objectives, Value Added Data, or any of the other numerous initiatives that all too often demand our attention. He is, by contrast, obsessed with sharing the joys of literature. As an Irishman he may appreciate me using a Joycean word to claim that for John teaching is about

moments of epiphany; the revelation of beauty and meaning through close attentive reading and deep thought and analysis, and that is why his Sixth Form students enjoy their study of literature with him.

Like a proper old school schoolmaster, John has also left his mark in many other areas, from his heavy involvement in drama, to debating, tutoring, and on to rugby where his constant presence on the touchline in all weathers has been a feature of 2nd XV rugby at Culford for many years. We hope he will enjoy his retirement and he will certainly be much missed.

I should also thank all of the teachers who sit behind me. Life at Culford is all-consuming and our teachers throw themselves into that maelstrom of activity wholeheartedly and without reservation. Every opportunity from horse-riding to astronomy, from sailing to debating, relies upon good old-fashioned commitment and a willingness to focus on the benefit not the cost. For all their efforts every term, for all the ways they express their passion for their subjects and for all the extension opportunities they offer our pupils, I thank my colleagues.

One of the best things about having passionate colleagues is their ambition to improve. This year Governors and I spent a day discussing where the School has been, where it is now and where it should, in our

opinion, be in the future. As part of that we debated a set of words that could express our values. We know we want education here to be challenging, enriching and fun; but that does not tell us what values we as individual teachers should have, what the School as an organisation should live to, and what we hope our pupils can thus become.

We chose four words and declared that we want Culford, its staff and pupils to be Flexible, Innovative, Dynamic and Resilient.

The world is in perpetual motion; our pupils will need to be flexible, innovative and dynamic to take advantage of that in their future lives; and they will need to be resilient because without that their best ideas will never come to fruition and their most important relationships will not endure.

We also noted that to show those characteristics of flexibility, innovation, dynamism and resilience requires that we and our pupils are honest, courageous and compassionate. Honest enough to know when change is needed; courageous enough to make it so; and compassionate enough to do so in the most positive way possible.

It is telling that Lord Adonis, for the last Labour government, wanted to steal our DNA and the current government has said that schools should extend their days and the opportunities they provide their pupils.

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extra mile. They have learned all that from my colleagues here who have been flexible, innovative and dynamic about offering a wide range of learning opportunities to them; and who have been resilient about ensuring those opportunities are delivered and grasped.

Having lost their way in a welter of league tables and a thicket of meaningless statistics, politicians seem to have belatedly realised that the clear direction independent schools have taken and held to, is the soundest of courses.

However, sadly, the newspapers just the other morning reported a story about the continued over-representation of independent school educated people at the top end of various professions and one Conservative politician who should know an awful lot better seemed to be advocating positive discrimination at interview for state school pupils.

The mistake politicians of all hues make time and again is to assume that pupils from independent schools are over-represented in successful careers because there is some privilege in the system we have not yet managed to eradicate and we must try harder to do so.

The truth is that our pupils get ahead because we focus relentlessly not just upon the academic hurdles they need to pass, but upon their attributes as human beings. Soft skills will take you further than hard facts; and emotional intelligence further than academic qualifications in the long run.

Meet those about to leave Culford as members of our Upper Sixth and you will struck by their charm, good nature, willingness to learn and readiness to go the 12

There is no magic bullet for the over-representation of independent schools in the CVs of successful people.

Even if you practice positive discrimination at selection and interview, you will be faced in due course with the need to choose candidates for promotion; and I challenge any employer to tell me they do not want their leadership team to be flexible, innovative, dynamic and resilient.

The government needs to learn from us, not knock us; but to do so they will need to park their obsession with education as being the production-line for UK plc. The hours we spend at work are only, thank the Lord, part of our waking lives; and we seek to prepare Culfordians for the whole of their lives.

Education is actually a production-line that sets out to create happy, fulfilled, sensitive and moral human beings. If we produce people who are genuine not shallow, givers not takers, supporters not detractors, it should be no surprise that they will rise to leadership positions in their chosen professions. If we produce people who believe in leadership, service and social justice, it should be obvious that they will stand out in their communities.

There is nothing here that the state sector cannot do and indeed does not try to do; the only advantage we have is years of

insistence upon treating parents and pupils as consumers and customers; and a relentless focus upon going the extra mile as a business that depends upon your willingness to choose us.

As parents I hope you feel that we do focus relentlessly upon improvement and I do thank you for choosing to invest in a Culford education for your son or daughter: it is the only investment you will ever make that has no alarming small print – the value of an investment in education can only go up and never down.

Finally, I say to our pupils that I hope you not only appreciate the privileges you have at Culford, but that you enjoy them. This is your time to try new things and grasp any opportunities that come your way, and to experience the epiphanies I spoke of earlier.

The moment when you discover something new, fresh, unexpected; something that may be a mere passing interest; or perhaps become an all-consuming passion. Education is the chance to open your minds to these moments of epiphany.

As pupils, the best way to demonstrate your appreciation for the privilege of an education at Culford is to throw yourselves into it hard: in lessons, sport, music, drama or any other passion you have or may think you could develop.

To quote Henry David Thoreau, one of my own favourite writers: “You must live in the present, launch yourself on every wave, find your eternity in each moment.�

Julian Johnson-Munday MA MBA Headmaster

salvete THE CULFORDIAN

Senior Common Room

Helen Grant

Salvete PGA Professional Lawrence Dodd joined in September 2015 as Director of Golf and was pivotal in launching our new Golf Academy. Lawrence played on the European and Challenge Tours from 2007 to 2011 and he is also a regular Suffolk PGA tournament winner and England Elite squad member. His coaching skills have already become evident with early victories for young players on the programme.

Helen Grant joined Culford in September 2015 as High Performance Sport Co-ordinator.

Helen played Hockey for England from the age of 13 and went on to score 33 goals in 110 England caps and Commonwealth silver and bronze medals. She also played in the hockey World Cups of 2002 and 2006, emerging as England’s top goal scorer in both. Retiring from international hockey in 2008, she has since played for hockey clubs in the Netherlands, Australia and Japan before relocating to Culford.

Lawrence Dodd

Sarah-Jane Flack

New physics teacher, Douglas Edwards, has a degree in Science and Education, and has taught in schools in London, New Zealand and Italy. A keen mountaineer and expedition leader, Douglas will also be leading the Duke of Edinburgh programme at Culford. He is a member of the British Mountaineering Council, and has climbed Mont Blanc twice.

Old Culfordian, Sarah-Jane Flack (1990-1999) took a degree in Business Management.

She then worked providing cruise charter holidays across the world. Sarah retrained as a teacher and worked in a local school before returning to Culford as a mathematics teacher in September 2015.

Sarah Haughey joined Culford as Jocelyn’s Housemistress in January 2016. She has been a Housemistress for a number of years, most recently at Wymondham College, as well as teaching History, Religious Studies and PSHCE. Sarah has a master’s degree in Theology from her native US.

Sarah Haughey 13

THE CULFORDIAN salvete

Dr Brian O’Riordan

Another Old Culfordian, Pip Kirby-Smith (2005-2010), joined Culford in November 2014 as a resident tutor for Jocelyn House.

In September 2015 Pip started her (French) PGCE, and qualified in July. Pip studied French and English Language at York St John University before returning to Culford.

Kate Waghorn

Pip Kirby-Smith

Kerry McCarthy joined Culford in September 2015 as Head of Spanish, teacher of French and a Lower Fifth Tutor in Jocelyn House.

She also helps to run the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award and coaches netball in the Prep School. Before coming to Culford Kerry taught Spanish and French at Port Regis Prep School, Dorset. She lived in Spain for many years teaching English as a Foreign Language and working in sales and marketing for an international food distributor.

Kerry McCarthy 14

Kate Waghorn joined Culford in 2014, teaching French and Spanish in the Senior School and French in the Prep School.

Before joining Culford, Kate lived in Spain and was the Director of a Language school.

Kate also set up her own business as an interpreter helping ex-pats relocate to the area. When she moved back to the UK, Kate worked in a school in Ipswich teaching Spanish and French.

After a successful career in IT, working mainly in the public sector, Dr Brian O’Riordan retrained as a teacher. He joined Culford as second-in-command of the mathematics department in September 2015 from Lancing College in Sussex.

Dan Pilbrow took up the post of Head of Performance Swimming in September 2015 and is also Head Coach for West Suffolk Swimming Club. Dan was a junior International swimmer representing both England and Great Britain before he started his coaching career.

Andrew Northcote

Andrew Northcote joined as Director of Cricket in September 2015 and become Head of Sport the following September. Born in Cape Town, South Africa, he played club cricket in England and Ireland before being selected to play for the Italian National Team in 2007, for which he is still the vice-captain. His coaching roles outside of school include Head Coach for the Suffolk Men’s 1st XI, Suffolk Youth Cricket Batting Consultant for all age groups, SYC U15 Lead Coach and Woolpit CC Head Coach.

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Senior Common Room

Valete This year we said goodbye to a number of Senior Common Room colleagues.

Dr John Byrne

Guy Draper

Dr John Byrne retired following a distinguished 23 years at Culford as a well-respected Head of the English department and Sixth Form tutor. In his time here, he played many parts: producing school plays and musicals; coaching rugby; mentoring Oxbridge applicants and running numerous extra-curricular activities such as debating and critical thinking. He will

be much missed by both School and Common Room. Guy Draper moved on after 12 years as Culford’s Head of Outdoor Pursuits and member of the history department to take up a position as Housemaster at Glenalmond College in Scotland, while Rachael Ainscough becomes Head of Science at Sancton Wood School in Cambridge. Dominic Tomalin

has also moved on to Cambridge to become Vice Principal at CATS. The Headmaster paid tribute to them in his Speech Day Address which can be found on page 6.

Rachael Ainscough

Dominic Tomalin 15

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respected teacher and Sixth Form tutor, Alan was Head of Scholars for some years, developing the programme of lectures, seminars and tutorials that we know today, and responsible for bringing some excellent guest speakers to Culford such as Ann Widdecombe, Andrew Motion, then Poet Laureate, and philosopher AC Grayling.

Alan also organised inter-school philosophy conferences, headed up the Oxbridge programme and was Chair of the Common Room Forum. An ordained minister, Alan was a popular speaker at Chapel services and Collective Worship. Wearing his erudition lightly, he inspired pupils and staff to challenge themselves intellectually and could always recommend a good book.

After many years in teaching Alan decided to move into pastoral care as Chaplain at Ipswich Hospital.

Jessica Kaye

Jessica Kaye arrived at Culford as Housemistress of Jocelyn House in 2012.

Jess’s main subject was history but during her time here she also taught RS and English, and reinvigorated the Debating Society. Jess was known for her enthusiasm in and outside the classroom, always getting involved in Inter House Competitions and vociferously supporting her Jocelyn girls. In December 2015, Jess left Culford to take up the position of Housemistress at Glenalmond College.

Rev Dr Alan Palmer came to Culford as head of Religious Studies in 2007, quickly becoming an indispensable member of the Senior Common Room. A popular and

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Rev Dr Alan Palmer

Academic Achievements

THE CULFORDIAN academic achievements

Focus on

Examination Success Martin Sharples Scarlet Simmons Cameron Southgate-Ash Freddie Statham Sunny Teng George Terry Jack Veitch Luiza Walaszczyk

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xam specifications are going through significant change at present and this is proving challenging for teachers and pupils. Teachers need to thoroughly analyse new specifications and exam board frameworks so that they can provide the best possible learning for their pupils. Pupils have to deal with less coursework or Controlled Assessment, the move to terminal examinations at the end of courses and subject content and assessment that is increasingly more challenging. During the last year we have seen the beginning of the new A level framework: AS exams are now standalone qualifications, not counting towards final A level grades. We have also been preparing for a raft of new GCSE qualifications, including the new grading system involving a 1-9 system, where 7-9 covers the previous A to A* range to separate out the very academic achievers.

Changes such as the above have been implemented carefully and thoroughly at Culford and this is illustrated by another year of extremely good results. Many pupils gained suites of top grades and, just as importantly, if we look across the range of abilities, the value added was very pleasing indeed. Value added is a measure of a pupil’s grades in comparison to those expected in terms of 18

ability level. Pupils who did well almost invariably worked consistently throughout the courses, approached their academic studies with ambition, drive and tenacity and acted upon the advice of teachers.

A2 and AS At A level 30% of all grades were A* to A and 59% were A* to B. Individual A level pupil successes are outlined below, our top performer gaining 4 A* grades and winning a place to study maths at Cambridge.

Constance Ash Harry Connor Harry Davies Siqi Fang Anna Flynn Henrike Goebel Thomas Guntrip Riana Harvey Lucy Hollis Charlie Holt Christopher Howells Joan-Lukas Kümpers Hannah Littlechild Amelia Nunn Sophie Owles

AABC A*AB ABB A*A*A*A* A*AA AAABB ABB AAA A*AA ABB A*AA A*ABC AAB AAA ABB

A*AA AAB AAB AAB AABB AAA A*A*A*A AAAB

When these results were published in August, Mr Johnson-Munday said, “We are very proud of this set of excellent grades and particularly delighted with the high number of very good individual results. Pupils and teachers put a significant amount of effort into preparing for these important examinations and therefore the value added is always very pleasing.”

Lower Sixth pupils experienced two kinds of specification frameworks last year, new and legacy. All took AS exams in the summer whether or not the results counted for their final A level grades and the results were very promising. Our top performers are outlined below.

Freddie Allum Rebecca Beardmore Josh Chalfen Natasha Day Joe Gilkes Beth Keswick Sam Lucas Max McCrea Anton Nitsche Marie Owino Emilien Rougon Eleanor Rushforth Lucy Scott Charlie Schofield Gabriel Williams Shurui Xu Sherman Yu Alex Zheng

AAAA AABB AABC AAA AAA AAA AAAC AAA AAAC AABC AABCC AAAC AABC AAAC AAAAB AACC AAC AAAA

academic achievements THE CULFORDIAN

Extended Projects Four pupils also successfully completed A level Extended Projects. Christopher Howells analysed the Yemen crisis, Raul Rutnam focused on contemporary London architecture, Kieran D’Lima looked at how the UK deals with oil spills, and Siqi Fang reflected on creating an Enigma machine. These projects, overseen by academic mentors, are worth half an A level in terms of UCAS points but more importantly illustrate to universities real interest in future areas of study and the ability to work independently and think critically. During the present academic year all Lower Sixth pupils will complete project work which will involve guided independent study and a final presentation.

GCSE At GCSE, we have not quite moved to the 1-9 grading system yet. 45% of all grades were at A* to A level; 71% were A* to B. The following pupils performed very well indeed with a range of A* and B grades: 30% of pupils achieved at least 7 A* or A grades.

8A*, 1A (B – AM) 3A*, 6A 4A*, 3A, 1B, 1C 3A*, 4A, 1B (A – AM)

The Headmaster commented, “We are very pleased indeed with these excellent results.

Yet again, the value added across the range of abilities was particularly impressive and our top pupils gained A* and A grades.”

Every year, pupils who are not academic scholars but who do particularly well in their GCSE examinations are awarded Sixth Form Honorary Scholarships by the Headmaster. The benchmark for Honorary Scholarships is an equivalent point score of at least 4A* and 5A grades. New Sixth Form Scholars are as follows: Claire Bottomley Abbie Farrow Beatrice Northeast-Roffey Katie Veitch William Baines Joshua Stephens

In the Lower Fifth, our top Mathematics set took IGCSE Mathematics a year early. 82% of grades were A* and the rest gained an A grade. These pupils will now go on to study Additional Maths in the Upper Fifth, a very challenging but rewarding course which is an excellent preparation for maths and further maths at A level.

In summary, the overall results prove how hard teachers and pupils work to gain the best grades possible. Grades are incredibly important, and as AS exams are being phased out increasingly universities will be looking at GCSE grades as entrance criteria. However it is the individual pupil journeys that are really interesting and encouraging. We continue to focus on developing in each pupil confidence and high expectations, enjoyment of their subjects and, very importantly, guided independent study skills with the help of our committed teachers and superb facilities such as the new library.

Dr John Guntrip

University Destinations

(AM=Additional Maths) Nerea Arraras William Baines Claire Bottomley Abi Callaghan Jessica Campbell Charles Carter Fraser Devoy Jude Everitt Abbie Farrow Sol Franklin Cody Fraser-Cox Peter Hodgson Charlie Scott Martynas Jurkonis Maria Kiryakova Jintong Li Lana Mo Sam Nash Beatrice Northeast-Roffey Edward Pomeroy Clemens Rathmanner Sophie Schaefer Thomas Smith Joshua Stephens

Katie Veitch James Vickers Nella Walters Celina Yan

5A*, 2A 6A*, 2A, 1B (B – AM) 5A*, 4A 2A*, 7A, 1B 2A*, 5A, 1B 5A*, 1A, 2B, 1D 4A*, 3A, 1B, 1C 3A*, 1A, 4B, 1C 7A*, 2A (A – AM) 5A*, 4A, 1B (B – AM) 7A, 2B 5A*, 1A, 3B 3A*, 4A, 1B 4A*, 2A, 3B 2A*, 5A, 2B 5A*, 3A, 1B, 1C (B – AM) 10A* (A – AM) 7A, 3B 4A*, 5A 7A, 2B 3A*, 3A, 1B, 1C 6A*, 2A, 1B (A – AM) 6A*, 2A, 1B 5A*, 5A

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his was another successful year for university applications with 65% of applicants achieving a place at their first choice university. Siqi Fang won a place at Trinity College, Cambridge to read mathematics and Eloy Torres-Ramon (OC 2015) secured an unconditional offer to read Physics at Brasenose College, Oxford. A number of Culfordians secured places at Russell Group universities.

Exeter was a popular destination this year, with Sophie Owles studying Zoology; George Terry Engineering and Management; Harry Connor Politics and International Relations and Lucy Hollis Mathematics. Bristol was also popular with Edward Field choosing to study Real Estate and William Hammerton reading Property Development and Planning at the University of the West of England, while Amelia Nunn is reading French and Russian and Luiza Walaszczyk English at University of Bristol. Four Culfordians have also headed up to York: Thomas Guntrip to read

Politics and International Relations; Alex Sanderson Marketing; Jack Veitch Natural Sciences and Scarlet Simmons Psychology.

A number of Culfordians have chosen more unusual degrees. Niall Buckley is studying Ethical Hacking and Network Security at Coventry, Ben Whittaker is studying Furniture and Product Design at Nottingham Trent and Vicky Yao has gone to the University of the Arts London to study Cosmetic Science.

In addition to applications made to UK Universities a number of pupils made successful applications to universities in Europe, the US and Asia. Emily Sim secured a full athletic scholarship for tennis to Tiffin University in Ohio, where she joins Toby Cutting (OC 2015), also a tennis scholar at Tiffin.

These represent only some of our successful university applicants; congratulations go to all of our successful applicants and of course those who have chosen other post-18 paths.

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THE CULFORDIAN international study programme

International Study Programme

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otivation, determination, and a strong desire to learn are the qualities needed to join Culford’s new accelerated One-Year IGCSE programme.

After an intensive year of study, the group takes the standard GCSE exams with a view to moving into Sixth Form. This year, in September, eight new international students arrived from China and Hong Kong to embrace the challenge. They quickly settled into boarding life and made new friends from both the UK and from all over the world.

Combining hard work and good fun, in addition to their studies in English, Maths, and Science, the students have also been introduced to drama, rock climbing, and have even enjoyed a session on the finer points of how to win a game of conkers. Excursions to Cambridge and Bury St Edmunds increased their enthusiasm and appreciation for British culture and history. Becoming involved in all aspects of boarding life is an important part of the programme, and the students have also been active in sports, clubs, and CCF. We are extremely proud of our new group of international students who are working hard, having fun, and exploring all that Culford has to offer.

Mr Nick Murray 20

enrichment THE CULFORDIAN

Sixth Form

Enrichment Programme

By Tatiana Ruleva, Lower Sixth

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eing a part of Culford’s Sixth Form community gives you countless fun and valuable opportunities. It also provides you with a variety of different activities and facilities to excel in your own abilities as well as get to know everyone else in the Sixth Form.

As I entered Culford Sixth Form, Freshers’ Week was exactly what helped me to make new friendships and get closer to my new year group. With team building exercises ranging from challenging high ropes to archery it was thoroughly enjoyed by all. Relaxing evenings allowed me to chat and get to know everyone, and I really started to get the important sense of community that Sixth Form provides you with. By the end I also started to realise that these are the people who will stay my friends for many years after I leave Culford.

Highland Ball

Highland Ball In the Sixth Form years we get a lot more freedom, but also a lot more responsibility.

We are given the opportunity to contribute through Sixth Form Committee, which organises Sixth Form Parties and oversees Paddy and Scott’s, the Sixth Form Café.

I enjoyed being involved with this and became Chair this year. Sixth Form Parties

always follow a theme, for example this year we had a Hawaiian party with a limbo competition and the winner received an Amazon voucher as a prize. The atmosphere of a beach party was enhanced with decorations and music chosen by the committee as well as little snacks to keep the crowd going.

Paddy and Scott’s provides food such as paninis, salads and pasta as well as hot drinks during lunch and break times. It is a Sixth Form only area during school hours so Upper Sixth can go and study there with a cup of tea or coffee during private study lessons for a change from the library. The library is a fantastic new facility at Culford which opened this year. It is an excellent working environment, including a Sixth Form only mezzanine area. The library has tables to work on during your private study time and sofas for quiet conversation during study breaks, and many print and online resources to support your learning, perfect for further reading around your subject – a crucial part of Sixth Form study.

Sixth Form life also comes with many more formal and celebratory occasions. Sports and Arts presentations celebrate achievements during the past year. They are formal dinners followed by an awards ceremony, topped off by dancing to a live band. With a black tie 21

THE CULFORDIAN enrichment

Freshers’ Week

dress code it is a much anticipated occasion to dress up and get professional photos taken with your friends; I have mine hanging on the walls in my room. Closer to Christmas time the whole Sixth Form is invited to attend The Highland Ball, an evening with food, Scottish dancing and a ceilidh band.

There is also a theme; last year we had “Sparkles”, so there were glittering lights coming off everyone’s outfits and decorations which made the evening even more magical.

We are all encouraged to join in the dancing with all of our friends and teachers to have the best time before going off for the Christmas break. Finally, the Summer Ball is a celebration at the end of our final year at School. You can invite your whole family to say a big farewell to the School, during a night of speeches and dancing.

In Upper Sixth we have a group of 20 pupils who are proud to call themselves Prefects.

They help to run the school and organise events. We apply for the job in Lower Sixth and start at the end of our Lower Sixth year.

Other responsibilities include House Prefects, Sports Captains, and Subject Ambassadors – as you can see you can get involved in all

Hawaiian Party

aspects of School life. These positions are something that many aim for throughout their time at Culford.

Sixth Form also helps to prepare you for life after School with regular Careers Lunches providing the opportunity to meet people from various professions. I went to an Accounting themed lunch last year, but they range across all different courses from Medicine to Law, so everyone gets to speak with a professional from their chosen field. Life After Culford week at the end of the Lower Sixth year is dedicated to helping Culford students choose what to do after they leave and give support for their university applications. Lectures, The Culford Challenge, and talks from OCs help to form a different perspective on your future. In-house and external speakers give support in many relevant areas, for example writing a great personal statement and how to perfect your CV. Culford Sixth Form is a fun and friendly community so enjoy it to the maximum! Get involved but also stay on top of your work to have the best two years of your school life. It surely is one of the best Sixth Forms in the country.

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enrichment THE CULFORDIAN

Scholars’ Programme

By Natasha Day, Lower Sixth

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he Scholars’ Programme for this academic year has been intriguing to say the least. With the central theme of Language, the Senior School academic Scholars have been challenged on their ideas on language, as well as being introduced to a spectrum of concepts revolving around the evolution of languages. On top of our regular reading tutorials where Scholars discuss academic reading materials related to their subjects, we are privileged to be able to attend a host of compelling lectures from in-house and guest speakers to fully challenge and stretch us intellectually. It is undoubted that the central theme of language is too vast to completely cover in a single academic year and the subject matter varied immensely from lecture to lecture allowing us to be exposed to an array of sub-topics within the overarching theme. All of these seminars took place in the Watson Lecture Theatre in the new library, which is an ideal venue, facilitating the pursuit of knowledge and academic excellence for all Senior School pupils.

For the initial lecture, Mr Johnson-Munday presented on Body language: speaking without words. This was a very interesting lecture as it revolved around non-verbal communication rather than the spoken or

Pupils with zoologist Dr Arik Kershenbaum from Cambridge University written language which was the main focus for the majority of the other seminars.

Mr Johnson-Munday’s talk emphasised the importance of positive body language and how to improve someone’s first impression of you simply by the way you communicate with your body.

Another highlight of the Scholars’ Programme was the seminar by guest speaker Professor Simon Horobin on Language and History. This

was a fascinating lecture as it detailed the evolution of pronunciation of specific words, as well as how and why the meaning of words change over time; for example the word ‘literally’. One aspect of the lecture which I found particularly interesting was the explanation as to how and why words transition in and out of fashion. The seminar also sparked a debate about the Oxford comma and the Scholars were encouraged to voice their opinions on the importance of its use.

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THE CULFORDIAN enrichment

Amelia Nunn, Professor Simon Horobin and Head Boy Kieran D’Lima

Other lectures included Professor Robert Dunbar on Language and Human Rights, Dr Arik Kershenbaum, a Research Fellow in Zoology at Cambridge, discussing Non-Human Language: birds, wolves and aliens, and our own Mrs Glassbrook speaking about Language and Literature.

In terms of debates, the Scholars also participated in a lively discussion about the suggestion to move to one global language at the expense of hundreds of less popular and significant languages. There were some very convincing arguments from both sides and the Scholars watching the debate were enthusiastic to share their views and support their side of the discussion.

On behalf of all the Scholars I’d like to say thank you to the Headmaster and the Deputy Head for overseeing such a vibrant programme, and to all the guest speakers who delivered such thought provoking seminars.

Sixth Form pupils with Mrs Alexia Glassbrook, Head of English

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valedictory THE CULFORDIAN

Upper Sixth Leavers

What Culford Means To Me

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joined Culford in 2008, in Upper Second. I come from a military family and had never actually been to school in England before, so I was apprehensive to say the least, especially coming from an international military school of thousands of students – I did not think I would fit into a private Preparatory School in Suffolk.

But the pupils I met did not conform to my expectations. Oliver Bridges was the first person I met; he was kind and welcoming, he was my mentor – he put me at ease and I am still, to this day, grateful for that.

We worked our way to the top of Prep School and in Upper Third we were preparing to start right at the bottom again in Senior School. We all thought that Senior School would be intimidating and scary, but we knew we were ready for the transition.

That position is very similar to the way I feel today. We have climbed our way to the top of the School, but we are preparing to go back to the bottom as a Fresher at University, or the bottom rung of a company. And, as we were when we left Prep School, we are nervous – nobody knows what’s going to happen.

But we have faith and that is what is key.

Recently I attended the Old Culfordians’ Drinks Reunion in London and had a great evening. It was really special to witness old friends greet each other so warmly.

It shows what Culford can do for you – I will have these friends for life and I look forward to our own reunions, to keeping in touch with everyone because they are all such interesting and individual people.

We have a great community as a year group because we are not all the same, we have different talents.

be millions watching on TV and thousands in the audience, but we will be able to look at whoever it may be and know we have a connection with them. We grew up together and we will always have that connection.

There are some outstanding athletes in our year group and I hope to be able to watch some of them on TV in years to come – on Centre Court at Wimbledon, at the Olympics or wherever it may be. And yes, there will

As the American novelist Richard Bach said, “Remember where you came from.

Remember where you are going.”

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o sum up how Culford has shaped me as a person would be impossible. The opportunities I have been given over the last nine years have been ones I would not have been able to have anywhere else. During my years here Culford has become my second home; there have been weeks where I have come in for breakfast and then stayed well into the evening for a concert, then gone home just to sleep.

Music has been such a big part of my life at Culford. I remember taking my Grade 1 violin exam when I was in Lower Second. At the time the Billiard Room didn’t exist so I had to take it in Centenary Hall – just the examiner (who kept complaining about the cold) and me. In Prep School I was awarded a music scholarship by Mr Weyers who was such a big influence on me.

In Senior School, memories formed in our lessons are ones I will never forget and I’m sure my peers will never forget my endless playing of my GCSE music composition.

Over the next few years, you may end up at university, working full time or still on a gap “year.” No matter what your dream is though, you can get there with the dedication, determination and focus that you have learned here at Culford.

Kieran D’Lima

Chloe Gimson with Cameron Southgate-Ash

Before I knew it GCSEs were over and suddenly I was embarking on Freshers’ week. Then, it was straight back into A levels and back to the hard work once again, this time a lot harder than GCSEs. I think my tutor group will agree that Mrs Hunt’s surprise chocolate and cake throughout the last two years definitely motivated us through the hard times.

I enjoyed taking part in every musical activity offered and over the years have featured in virtually every concert.

Continued overleaf

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During Lower Sixth I started playing piano duets with Cameron Southgate-Ash which was a new path for me. It was lovely to think after eight years of playing music that I could explore another option of music making. For me, the icing on the cake was achieving Grade 8 on the violin.

To me this sums up what Culford means because Culford has allowed me to go

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from a non-player to a Grade 8 player in only nine years.

I feel privileged to have been given the education I have. Yes, I have learnt everything I need to pass exams but more importantly I have been taught manners and respect. Culford has helped me grow in confidence and remain true

to myself. I have an amazing group of friends who have always been here for me and will remain friends for life. I can’t believe my time at Culford has come to an end but I am ready to move on and break through the Culford bubble to enter the real world.

Chloe Gimson

Visual and Performing Arts

THE CULFORDIAN visual and performing arts

Arts Presentation Dinner

Photographs

by Shaun Scott Photography

2016

O

n Saturday 23 April, Culford held the ninth annual Arts Presentation Dinner which recognises and celebrates the achievements of Upper Fifth and Sixth Form pupils in art, music and drama. The evening was hosted and organised by The Lower Sixth, and attendees enjoyed a wonderful meal and danced to a live band afterwards.

Mrs Brenda Hunt, Head of Art, presented the Art Awards to the following pupils: ■ Hannah Brecknell (U5) ■ Harriet Kirby-Smith (L6) ■ Raul Rutnam (U6) Director of Drama, Miss Maria Jackson, presented the Drama Awards to the following pupils: ■ ■ ■ ■

Emily Harris (U5) Phoebe Howe (U6) Scarlet Simmons (U6) Anna Sutton (L6)

Mr Peter Burge, Director of Music, presented the awards for the Music department, which were given for overall endeavour and achievement. The three pupils who were congratulated were: ■ Joe Gilkes (L6) ■ Annabel Heywood (U5) ■ Hannah Littlechild (U6) Mr Josh Fox, Head of Physics, awarded prizes to the following pupils in the Technical and Lighting Team: ■ ■ ■ ■

Cameron Fellows (L6) Melissa Heybourn (U6) Tristan Long (U5) Martin Sharples (U6) was also recognised for outstanding long service.

Maria Jackson, Director of Drama with Anna Sutton 28

Mrs Hunt commented that, “It was a wonderful evening; a time to celebrate the achievements of pupils in the Upper Fifth and Sixth Form involved in the creative and performing arts, and to say thank you to them and their teachers for their commitment and dedication.”

Hannah Brecknell with Brenda Hunt, Head of Art

visual and performing arts THE CULFORDIAN

Emily Harris with Maria Jackson, Director of Drama

Cameron Fellows with Josh Fox, Head of Physics

Hannah Littlechild with Peter Burge, Director of Music

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THE CULFORDIAN visual and performing arts

Alex Packer

Art and Design Technology

GCSE Gallery Jude Everitt

Hannah Brecknell

Will Lettin

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Sasha Gerry

Hannah Benton

visual and performing arts THE CULFORDIAN

Joshua Stephens

Jin Tong Li 31

THE CULFORDIAN visual and performing arts

Art and Design Technology

AS and A Level Gallery

Emma Watson Sophie Mason with Mrs Mason at the Summer Exhibition

Ben Whittaker

Ed Field 32

visual and performing arts THE CULFORDIAN

Jono Le Grice

Royal Academy A Level Summer Online Exhibition

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ulford art pupil, Jono Le Grice, has been shortlisted in the Royal Academy A Level Summer Online Exhibition; he was selected from over 2,000 submissions in a showcase of Britain’s best young artistic talent.

The curators found ‘the quality and diversity of the work really exciting’, and Bob and Roberta Smith RA said: “We loved looking at the breadth and skill of all the entries. Congratulations to all the young artists who submitted works.”

Kate Jackson’s British Road Movies Exhibition

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ore than 100 people came to the Foundation Gallery at Culford on Thursday 25 February for a private view of Old Culfordian Kate Jackson’s (1988-1998) new exhibition, entitled ‘British Road Movies’. There were many local art lovers in attendance, including Old Culfordians and parents of current and past pupils.

Formerly lead singer with acclaimed indie rock band The Long Blondes, Kate Jackson is a painter and printmaker who works from her studio in Bury St Edmunds. Her colourful and bold paintings filled the gallery space and there was also a chance to see pupils’ work which was on view.

Kate said “The art department was like my second home when I was at school here, so there is a lovely synchronicity about being back here now, exhibiting my work in the place where it all began.”

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THE CULFORDIAN visual and performing arts

Eve Holder

Ed Harris

Raul Rutnam

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visual and performing arts THE CULFORDIAN

Cameron Fellows

Ed Harris 35

THE CULFORDIAN visual and performing arts

Senior School

Drama Animal Farm adapted by Ian Wooldridge from the book by George Orwell.

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he Upper Fifth GCSE Drama pupils excelled themselves in March when they presented an adaptation of Animal Farm as part of their practical examination. Having spent many months studying the movement and characteristics of the farm animals they were portraying, the pupils vividly brought to life the trials and tribulations of the battles of hierarchy as the animals aim first for equality, but lose out to domination as some animals are proved ‘more equal than others’.

Performed on a detailed, full set depicting the inside of the barn, which contained old prams, wheels, wheelbarrows, crates, carts, baskets, farm implements and an

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ingenious windmill which the pupils had created themselves out of discarded items you might find lying around on a farm, the pupils gave a spirited performance.

and Katie Farrant’s Benjamin the donkey was, in turns, funny and heart-rending, especially when best friend Boxer is taken away to the slaughter house.

Jevony Hall brought relish and domination to the piece as the dictatorial leader Napoleon, supported superbly by Oliver Hart as Squealer, her second in command, who portrayed the conniving and manipulative pig with great skill. Emily Harris and Katie Veitch captured the movements of horses they were portraying with skill and accuracy,

The visiting examiner commented, “I have been examining GCSE productions for over 40 years and have never yet seen a performance of Animal Farm presented for examination. It was superb, an absolute treat.” She rewarded the pupils with the highest possible marks with all pupils gaining A* grades for their performances.

Katie Veitch (Boxer) Emily Harris (Clover), Katie Farrant (Benjamin) Tristan Long (Snowball) and Freya Luscombe (Major)

visual and performing arts THE CULFORDIAN

The Yellow Wallpaper

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he Yellow Wallpaper, an original devised piece of theatre created by A level pupils this year, was developed from the themes and characters featured in the novella of the same name by feminist writer Charlotte Perkins Gilman.

Having read the novella, which is a moving account of the author’s real life experiences, the pupils were fascinated by the existence faced by Charlotte during the time that she was incarcerated and subjected to a brutal rest-cure, so called because it was supposed to cure her of her ‘puerperal mania’.

Using key moments of the text as a stimulus the pupils created a 25-minute piece of original theatre, creatively adapting the text, characters and themes into a piece which featured physical theatre, contemporary dance, singing and character-driven acting.

as a hospital once she had been locked in an upstairs room, Eve’s luminous and innocent portrayal captured beautifully the hope that Charlotte held for the future.

Having lived through the torment of the rest-cure, Phoebe Howe’s version of the stripped, beaten and desperate Charlotte was harrowing and brutal to watch. Luiza Walaszczyk brought sophistication and a haunting quality to her interpretation and Scarlet Simmons invited us to share in the horror that Charlotte experienced having being locked up and terrified by the figures

she believed lurked within the yellow wallpaper of her room.

The physical theatre and contemporary dance pieces that punctuated the piece were outstanding, proving that these pupils are adept not only at fine acting, but can also communicate effectively to an audience using a variety of performance skills.

This piece was performed before an examiner and the five pupils involved achieved three A* and two A grades between them, which is testament to the high quality of the material they created and performed.

What resulted was a fascinating piece of theatre. Charlotte unfolded before us as a delicate and highly intelligent woman. Within the complex structure of the piece pupils either played Charlotte as an individual, highlighting specific aspects of her experience, or as an ensemble during which a variety of aspects of Charlotte could be seen at the same time. Eve Holder shone in her individual role as Charlotte. When she arrived at what she believed to be a hotel, only discovering its true nature

Left to right: Luiza Walaszczyk, Sophie Jamil, Phoebe Howe, Eve Holder and Scarlet Simmons

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THE CULFORDIAN visual and performing arts

Senior School Play:

L’Atelier

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ulford drama department’s production of Jean-Claude Grumberg’s L’Atelier, performed over three nights to an audience of over 100 each night, was a sell-out success. This piece displayed the pupils’ knack for naturalistic performance with excellent comic timing.

This was an engrossing evening of theatre where the young performers displayed a mature and sympathetic understanding of the diverse characters struggling to live day to day in post-war France and coming to terms with emerging and often unpalatable truths.

Scarlet Simmons excelled as the cheeky, often foul-mouthed and provocative Mimi, the self-styled leader of the seamstresses who worked cheek-by-jowl in the Parisian atelier.

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Phoebe Howe and Anna Sutton played Marie and Giselle, each mastering their character’s youthful naivety and providing some moments of real tenderness. Performing the character of Simone, a woman who is in the midst of a fruitless search for her husband following his disappearance at the hands of the Opposition, Jemma Andrews portrayed the fragility and hopelessness of the character with real emotional depth. It was a pleasure to see Freddie Statham flexing his acting muscles once more, and his portrayal of the vicious and often hysterical Leon was imposing and often chilling, and provided a perfect foil for Rebecca Beardmore’s Helene, his put-upon wife. Eleanor Gillis excelled as the grudging, disappointed Madame Laurence proving what outstanding comic timing she has.

Swiveling rapidly from comedy to tragedy and back again throughout, the whole ensemble worked expertly together to create the nuances of each scene. A highlight was the celebratory scene at the end of Act 1 to celebrate the engagement of Marie. The ensemble whipped up a chaotic party that included dancing, fighting, reconciliations and drinking and ended on a hilarious crescendo when Leon threw an outraged Mimi into the air, while the rest of the cast toasted the newly engaged Marie.

Miss Jackson said, “This was a challenging yet subtle piece for our students to perform.

I was impressed with their ability to reflect the sensitivities of the play – the characters were compelling and their enjoyment of the performances shone through.”

An impressive and atmospheric set created

by Director of Drama Maria Jackson displayed outstanding attention to detail.

Through the use of spools of original 1940’s thread, period Parisian sewing boxes, original gramophones, typewriters, fabrics and fashions through to the vintage labelled wine bottles and original hand turned sewing machines, the audience were placed right in the middle of an authentic Parisian atelier of the 1940’s.

Left to right: Ed Harris, Freddie Statham, Rebecca Beardmore, Phoebe Howe, Anna Sutton, Scarlet Simmons, Eleanor Gillis, Harriet Kirby-Smith, Jevony Hall, Jemma Andrews, Maxim Rushman and Luisa Walaszczyk 39

THE CULFORDIAN visual and performing arts

Senior School Musical:

Les Misérables

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he challenge was on; take one of the most popular musicals of all time and stage it in less than three months. Led by Director of Drama Miss Jackson and with musical direction from Mr Burge, our pupils pulled it off with a beautiful and moving performance of Les Misérables. During the three days of the show, hundreds of pupils, staff, parents and friends were moved by some outstanding pupil performances.

Set in early 19th-century France, the musical tells the story of Jean Valjean, a French peasant, and his quest for redemption after serving 19 years in jail for having stolen a loaf of bread for his sister’s starving child.

He is relentlessly tracked down by a police inspector named Javert. Along the way, Valjean and other characters are swept into a revolutionary period in France, where a group of young people make their last stand at a street barricade.

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visual and performing arts THE CULFORDIAN

Joe Gilkes as Jean Valjean captivated the audience with his presence and voice as soon as he stepped onto the stage. His performance of Bring Him Home was sensitive and beautifully poignant. Juod Habib-Allah was menacing as Valjean’s nemesis Javert, portraying a complexity of character that was mesmerising. James Barley led the battle-worn Parisian student revolutionaries on the barricades with absolute command, singing with passion and grit.

Emily Hope gave an entirely polished and beautiful performance as Eponine. Her final moments in Marius’ arms were beautifully played and highly charged, while Scarlet Simmons’ portrayal of the ill-fated Fantine was poignant and heartfelt. The audience could not help but be moved during her powerful and emotive rendition of I Dreamed a Dream.

As Gavroche, Henry Jackson-Wells showed what a talented actor he is, capturing the spirited energy of this young hero when he challenged Javert and clambered over the barricades. He also portrayed the tragedy of Gavroche’s death with genuine heartfelt emotion. Anna Sutton and Ed Harris gave glorious and entertaining performances as Monsieur and Madame Thenardier, a highlight being their appearance at the wedding of Marius and Cosette, where they pilfered both cutlery and presents, Madame Thenardier even managing to exit with a huge wedding cake in her arms.

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THE CULFORDIAN visual and performing arts

The 55-strong ensemble cast were superb at multi-tasking as the factory workers, the lovely ladies, the poor, the convicts and the revolutionaries. When ensemble and principals joined together to sing One Day More the audience experienced an overwhelming powerhouse of sound.

The cast were united in their delivery of this resolute anthem and the result was fuelled with sincere emotion.

Mr Fox and his technical crew demonstrated an inspired use of lighting in the production, from the gloom of the mist-engulfed barricades to the sparkling celebratory vibrancy of the wedding waltz. Their expert use of sound took the audience on a journey from the underground Parisian sewers with their reverberating drips to the explosive territory of the barricades. All of this helped to create a sophisticated and professional production.

Les MisĂŠrables was two and half hours of sheer joy. Congratulations to everyone who was involved. It was a performance to remember.

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visual and performing arts THE CULFORDIAN

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THE CULFORDIAN visual and performing arts

Music

I

t has been a privilege to witness the ever increasing range of musical opportunities presented in the Senior School this year, together with ever higher standards of musical performance. I would like to pay tribute not only to the hard work of so many of our pupils, but also to the tremendous dedication of our superb peripatetic music teachers who help to make all of this possible.

Early in the Autumn Term we were pleased to welcome back the internationally celebrated violinist Steve Bingham to lead our second Strings Festival for schools within Suffolk. The day involved more than eighty string players from Culford and local schools, and went brilliantly. All were amazed by Steve’s tremendous musicianship and entertaining presentations including live looping on his electric violin of songs

by Coldplay. inaugural performance of the Fourth Form Choir. For half a term all of our Fourth Form worked together to perform two songs for this concert. This year they put a lot of effort into preparing Wakati wa Amani, a Swahili song of peace, and their rendition of Shout from the musical Sister Act was a great finale. Needless to say they received a thunderous ovation.

Sam Robson, founder of IEM Music, adjudicated our House Singing Competition this year and despite valiant efforts from all concerned Fitzgerald maintained their crown of champions for a third consecutive year.

A hauntingly beautiful a capella rendition of Counting Stars sung by Scarlet Simmons, Sophie Jamil, Hannah Littlechild and Emily Hope in the ensemble class undoubtedly clinched the title for them.

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The second Staff Concert hosted by our talented music teachers was another great success and is now established as a regular annual event. This is the one opportunity in the year where our students can sit and relax and see whether their teachers have been practising!

The Autumn Concert saw the usual mixture of solo and ensemble items including the

One particular ensemble that has gone from strength to strength is the Jazz Band under the inspired leadership of our saxophone teacher George Grant. Our pupils have really benefitted from George’s experience as a jazz musician and director of West Suffolk Youth Jazz Orchestra, in which both Henry Jackson-Wells and Joshua Cope have played.

The second half of the Autumn Term sees the focus move towards preparing for the Carol Service at the Cathedral, which is a wonderful opportunity for us to come together as a community. Additional preparation for the seventy-strong Carols Choir this year included singing at the Santa Parade at Center Parcs, followed by a free swim!

visual and performing arts THE CULFORDIAN

The main musical focus for the Spring Term was Les Misérables. With 29 musical numbers this was always going to be a massive undertaking for all concerned. However, the cast and accompanying musicians more than rose to the occasion and it was undoubtedly a triumph. Joe Gilkes demonstrated immense stamina and vocal range as Jean Valjean.

Juod Habib-Allah ably captured the brooding strength of Javert. Scarlet Simmons was a sublime Fantine and Emily Hope made us all weep with her impassioned Eponine.

The full cast gave their all and were superbly supported by the excellent band of thirteen musicians, seven of whom were current pupils. It was a tremendous experience for all of us to be involved in such a major project and great credit should go to the whole cast and crew.

As musicians we all benefit from having opportunities to perform and it has been very pleasing to see three of our young musicians reach the finals of the West Suffolk Youth Music Competition this year: Isabel Whyte (clarinet) as a Woodwind Finalist and Catherine Howells (cello) and Hannah Littlechild (violin) as String Finalists.

We wish Hannah every success as she begins her study of Music at King’s College, London next year.

Mr Peter Burge

There have been a growing number of solo performing opportunities for our students in the Senior School. In addition to dedicated Soloist Concerts each term, every Collective Worship now includes at least one solo performance. Our annual Scholars’ Concert takes place in the Spring Term and in a new initiative this year Culford musicians gave a recital in St Edmundsbury Cathedral in the Summer Term. More of our musicians also performed on the stage before Opera in the Park this year.

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THE CULFORDIAN visual and performing arts

Summer Ball 2016

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he sun shone on Culford’s Upper Sixth leavers at their ball on Saturday 2 July.

The group of around 70 included some students who started at Culford in the Pre-Prep School, as well as those who joined for Sixth Form. The leavers enjoyed the evening with their parents, teachers and friends.

About 200 guests were treated to a red carpet entrance and snapped by ‘paparazzi’ as they made their way to a champagne and canapé reception on a gloriously sunny South Front terrace. This was followed by a three-course meal in

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Centenary Hall which was transformed for the occasion into a sophisticated dining area.

Dancing followed with music from The Mementos band and a DJ and entertainment was provided by a magician, Elliot Phillips, and a casino with roulette wheel.

Trips and Activities

THE CULFORDIAN trips and activities

Trips and Activities French Trip

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he Fourth Form and Lower Fifth Easter French trip to Warsy in Picardie was extremely enjoyable and allowed us to improve our French listening and speaking skills. We stayed at the Château de Warsy which is close to the city of Amiens. We stayed in great dorms that had the most amazingly elegant en suite bathrooms. The Château had an enormous garden and we made the most of our evening activities there, including ‘Château Olympiques’ on the first evening.

During the week we visited some spectacular places including Paris city centre and Disneyland Paris. We even went to an apple orchard and got to try some cider! One of the highlights of the trip for

La vie chez une famille française

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’ai habité avec une famille française pendant une semaine, j’adorais voir un côté de la vie française que je n’avais jamais éprouvé avant. Je restais à une jolie maison et j’avais une chambre géniale avec une vue sur la ville de Tours. Tous les jours je me levais à sept heures et demie pour prendre une douche. Puis j’aimais aller en bas pour manger un petit déjeuner rapidement avec les enfants. Après avoir dit au revoir à ma famille j’ai marché par la belle ville pour arriver à mon école linguistique. Quand j’arrivais à la maison devais m’asseoir à la table pour un grand dîner avec une énorme assiette de fromage et de viande. Apres ça je regardais des films avec le plus jeune enfant. Puis je faisais mes devoirs avant d’aller dormir.

James Davies

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me had to be getting off the bus for the first time in France on Le Touquet beach.

After a long coach journey, being able to relax on the beach was really welcome and the rugby match on the sand was fantastic.

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During our day in Paris we experienced some amazing views of the city from the roof of the Tour de Montparnasse, a massive skyscraper with a 360 degree viewing platform at the top. Later we took a trip down the River Seine en bateau mouche under 22 bridges, seeing

the sights as we went. I really enjoyed myself on the French trip and I would strongly advise any pupil who wants to study French for GSCE to go. C’était fantastique!

Ellis Kilbane

Notre Voyage à Tours

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et été je suis allée faire un voyage français à Tours avec quelques élèves de mon année scolaire et aussi nos trois professeurs. Le voyage était incroyable. Nous sommes restés chacun chez une famille française. Il était en effet une semaine rempli de plaisir; les matins nous sommes allés à l’école qui s’appelle CLÉ (Centre Linguistique pour Etrangers). Nos leçons ont commencé à 8:30 et ont terminé à 12:30.

Nos leçons comprenaient la prononciation et la grammaire ainsi que des discussions générales en français, ils étaient extrêmement utiles. Après nos leçons nous allions faire des activités et le déjeuner. Alors pendant la semaine nous avons fait des choses comme le canoë (pour moi c’était la meilleure partie du voyage). Nous avons donc ramé le long de la Rivière Loire et à travers la rivière était le Château de Chenonceau c’était vraiment beau. Nous sommes allés aussi à vélo autour de la ville Tours, et après on est arrivés au centre-ville où nous avons vu la mairie. En outre, nous sommes allés nager et faire du shopping. Le voyage a été fantastique et Tours est une belle ville.

Je la recommande à tous.

Beatrice Northeast-Roffey

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THE CULFORDIAN trips and activities

Sixth Form Spanish Trip to Tenerife

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t the beginning of the Christmas holidays, Sixth Form pupils studying Spanish embarked on a fantastic trip to Tenerife with their teachers Mrs Waghorn and Miss McCarthy. The aims of the trip were to broaden our Spanish knowledge and increase our language fluency while at the same time appreciating the culture and traditions of the beautiful island. Each morning we attended Spanish classes at a local Spanish school and this was really interesting as it enabled us to meet Spanish language learners from across the world.

In the afternoon we took advantage of the great weather to visit such places as the Siam Water Park and Mount Teide, a volcano of great prominence on the island and Spain’s highest mountain. We took a cable car up the mountain and saw some incredible views.

Barcelona

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Evenings were very Spanish; on one occasion we enjoyed a dinner and dance where we were treated with an array of local cuisine, tapas and paella while being entertained by flamenco dancers!

This experience was wonderful because it allowed us to become more confident in 50

speaking Spanish and it bonded us together as a group of Sixth Form linguists. Above all it showed us what you can achieve and enjoy when you continue a foreign language to this level and beyond.

ast May a group of 22 pupils from the Fourth Form and Lower Fifth were treated to a brilliant trip to Barcelona which lasted for five wonderful days. We took the flight from Stansted airport to Barcelona where our hosts Spanish Star met us and took us on the short journey to where we were staying on the outskirts of the city. Every day was filled with amazing activities ranging from touring the Barcelona FC Stadium to visiting Montserrat where we enjoyed the most amazing views from the mountainous location. In my opinion the best experience was when we spent the day at PortAventura World, which is one of the most famous theme parks in Europe. The food at the site was excellent; one night we had paella which tasted so great I was astonished at how delicious it was. This trip was one of the best ones I have ever experienced and I recommended it to anyone.

It was also great for my Spanish!

Chloe-Jèane Parsley Matthew Mitcham

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Dive Trip to Tenerife

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n a dark October morning at 2.30am, ten divers set out under the guidance of Mr Arbuthnot and Miss Olley, looking forward to spending a week in a warmer place. After making it safely onto a plane from Stansted bound for Tenerife South the dive trip was well underway. After a short transfer to the resort of Westhaven

Bay in Las Galletas we settled into our villas, explored the resort and livened up the pool area. After a very long day we had an early night in the resort.

The diving was amazing. Mr Arbuthnot had done all the pool training back at school so even the novices could get out on the reef straight away. The new divers just needed

to complete two days of assessed dives by Mr Arbuthnot and one of the local instructors to gain their Open Water qualification. The dive sites included wrecks and caverns, and those qualified undertook a deep dive to 30 metres. One of the highlights of the week was seeing a family of huge Atlantic stingrays, several metres long, close enough to touch. We dived every morning and afternoon for five days spending the evenings relaxing either in the local restaurants or cooking for ourselves on the BBQ which we really enjoyed. During the final two days Mr Arbuthnot instructed me and two others through the Advanced Open Water course which included deep diving and learning to navigate underwater and we had to do mental arithmetic at 30 metres to test the effect of nitrogen narcosis.

On our free day we went to the Siam Waterpark, one of the best waterparks in the world. We spent a great day there and braved such rides as The Tower of Power, a 30 metre near-vertical drop into a pool filled with nurse sharks! We celebrated the end of a fun and tiring week in a local tapas bar before heading back to a rainy UK.

Riley Carr

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THE CULFORDIAN trips and activities

Combined Cadet Force

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he last year has been another extremely busy one for the CCF with all our usual activities and events.

The year started, as usual, with the arrival of around 40 new Fourth Form recruits, who are normally excited and a little nervous in equal measure. We were fortunate to have a large and enthusiastic group of Lower Fifth cadets who very quickly set the correct tone for the new recruits and helped them to get through their basic training. Special mention must go to our newly promoted Lower Fifth NCOs who have been asked to take on significant responsibility at an early stage in their CCF careers.

a weekend which all find demanding yet rewarding. Flying activities have moved to RAF Wittering and several cadets have had the opportunity to take the controls, some of whom are now able to execute basic aerobatics. Even Captain Draper as a “pongo*” got a flight but had to admit to feeling quite queasy after aerobatics.

Training continued throughout the year with our usual field weekends where recruits progressed from merely surviving outdoors to conducting night exercises with blank ammunition. Similarly NCOs and senior cadets had their leadership tested on these weekends as well as our Tactics Cadre,

Head Boy Kieran D’Lima with Air Commodore Andy Hall

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We were delighted to have Air Commodore Andy Hall as our Reviewing Officer on Inspection Day this year, which many people commented was the best ever. Certainly the presence of The Band of The Parachute Regiment seemed to make the cadets grow an inch or two and they had plenty of military swagger in their step as they

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marched past. Air Cdre Hall commented on their esprit de corps and bearing. After the parade the afternoon saw the usual blend of demonstrations and competitions in which parents were, in some cases, even more competitive than their children.

There were a number of notable achievements throughout the year by current and former cadets. Sgt Lewis Bovington passed the Senior Cadet Instructor’s Course, a demanding five day residential course run by Regular Army instructors which qualifies cadets in teaching skill at arms, drill, navigation and field-craft. Lewis has done particularly well

having gone from Cadet to Sergeant in one academic year; he is a great example of what can be achieved with determination and application.

Former cadet 2Lt David Hounsome (TA) is joining the Royal Navy as an engineering officer. Former Flt Sgt Ben Long, now Officer Cadet Long, has had a successful career with his University Air Squadron (UAS) and is currently going through the process of joining the RAF as a trainee pilot. Finally, former Corporal Tom Folley recently commissioned as Lt Folley with the Australian Army.

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THE CULFORDIAN trips and activities

Flt Sgt Kieran D’Lima won and attended his Flying Scholarship Course at Dundee last summer, going solo after 7 hours instruction. He was rated in the top three scholarship pilots in the country and has earned himself a second flying scholarship to be completed this summer. Kieran has also organised our Tornado flypast at the last two Inspection Days.

Air Commodore Andy Hall inspects the cadets

But the CCF is not just about individual efforts: it is an organisation based on teamwork, determination and a sense of service. Last year’s Upper Sixth Cadets were a superb example of the motto of RMA Sandhurst, Serve to Lead. This year’s Senior Cadets, who were Cdt Warrant Officer Martin Sharples, Staff Sgt Anna Flynn and Flt Sgt Kieran D’Lima have been a superb

example to younger cadets and I thank them for their organisation, commitment and enthusiasm.

This has been my last year with the CCF as I head north of the border this summer.

The CCF in many respects has been the most rewarding part of a very enjoyable job. This is due to the first class attitude of the cadets and also the CCF staff who have been a source of genuine camaraderie in the best traditions of the armed services. It just remains for me to thank Capt Sarah Schofield, Flt Lt James Tyler, Fg Off Sarah Draper, Lt Sarah Ahrens, 2Lts Will Emmens and Adam Fielden, Drum-Major Tom Atkinson, Maj Dom Tomalin, and most especially the SSI, CSgt Ian Roach, for all they have done to support the CCF and me over the past 11 years.

Capt G E Draper Contingent Commander *pongo is RAF slang for a soldier

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THE CULFORDIAN

Rio Olympian Gold Medallist and Wimbledon Star Open New Sports Facilities

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ulford School welcomed sporting stars Tim Henman OBE and Laura Unsworth to open its new state-of-the-art sporting facilities on Saturday 10 September 2016.

GB’s Olympic hockey gold medallist Laura Unsworth took part in a hockey masterclass with Prep School pupils, sharing some of her tips and tricks on how to reach national standard.

She then officially opened the new all-weather hockey pitch at Culford, in partnership with Bury St Edmunds Hockey Club. The sand-dressed floodlit pitch, with tiered standing for spectators, was funded by the Club and its members in partnership with England Hockey, the National Hockey Foundation and Sport England, and with support from Culford who provided the site.

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THE CULFORDIAN

On the same afternoon former Wimbledon semi-finalist and world top ten tennis player Tim Henman OBE unveiled two new seasonally covered outdoor tennis courts. These will add to Culford’s superb tennis facilities, including the Indoor Tennis Centre, which was also built with significant support from the LTA. As well as a masterclass with Culford’s Tennis Scholars, Tim held an inspirational question and answer session with pupils and parents who are part of Culford’s renowned high performance programmes.

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Mr Johnson-Munday hopes that the opening of the new facilities will inspire a generation at Culford. He said, “Our vision at Culford is to have all children involved in sport, whether as elite performers or recreational players, and today we have had over 400 children playing tennis on the new courts and hockey on our all-weather pitch opened in partnership with Bury St Edmunds Hockey Club. We were delighted to have Tim and Laura with us to inspire our pupils and their support made this a fantastic way to launch our new facilities.”

THE CULFORDIAN

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THE CULFORDIAN

The Library One Year On

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he evening before term started, the Headmaster and I were still unpacking books at 9pm. Some of the furniture wasn’t yet in place, and I didn’t have a computer. But by the day of the official opening on 8 September 2015 the new library looked splendid with gleaming shelves full of books, funky new furniture in bright colours, and the coffee machine on the go for the Sixth Form. pupils were making good use of the resources with issues increasing by more than 25% over the previous year. In the Summer Term, the library remained open in the evenings for Sixth Form boarders which proved really popular, with 40 or more each evening making use of the opportunity to revise in such ideal surroundings. Teachers were bringing groups in to research during lessons and pupils were coming in to do their Prep after school. The library continues to be busy, with pupils and staff taking full advantage of such a wonderful facility.

Within just a few weeks it was obvious the new library was a success. Every pupil in Senior School had at least one lesson a week in the library, with many Sixth Formers coming several times a week for Private Study, enjoying the spacious and light interior, the choice between studying at a table or on the sofa with a coffee, the excellent WiFi and the range of books and magazines. By the end of the first term, we had over 10,000 visits and

Harry Potter Book Night

National Poetry Day The new library foyer lent itself to events which included a poetry open mic to celebrate National Poetry Day in October, and Christmas readings around our beautiful tree in December. Harry Potter Book Night in February was a huge success with Prep School pupils, not to mention the Fourth Form and Lower Sixth pupils who helped to run it. The Watson Lecture Theatre has also proved its worth, being used as study rooms during the exam season and for seminars, Scholars’ Lectures and meetings.

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Harry Potter Book Night

Author Juno Dawson visits Culford

Our programme of author events included Chris Bradford, the author of the Young Samurai series and the Bodyguard series. Being an author who takes his research seriously, he is qualified in both disciplines. His enthralling Samurai presentation included him demonstrating moves with his own genuine Samurai sword, while the afternoon session saw him training Fourth Form in elite personal protection techniques. Juno Dawson charmed Lower and Upper Fifth with her talks in January where she not only discussed her books but also got them thinking about feminism and equality. The year ended on a high with the amazing Philip Reeve during the last week of term. This was a Waterstones event where we hosted several other local schools in Centenary Hall. The Watson Lecture Theatre also hosted author visits for Prep School which included Mysterium author Julian Sedgwick, whose knife juggling never fails to thrill, and Inbali Iserles, author of Foxcraft.

At the time of writing, it is incredible to think that it is only just a little over two years since the library build began. As I walked up to lunch every day I would look at the building as it progressed and wonder what it would be like once it was completed. Now after a year, as I sit here and look out at the King of the Park through the amazing glass walls, I am thrilled to have been part of such a forward thinking investment in the academic future of Culford pupils.

Mrs Lesley Martin

Pupils say: I love the purple sofas. I enjoy being able to kick my shoes off, put my feet up and have a coffee while I study.

It is nice and bright and airy.

It’s good to have our own space where we’re not disturbed by younger pupils.

The furniture is really cool and I love the different shapes and colours.

Coming to the library means I actually get on with my Prep where if I went to the House I would just be chatting with my friends.

I didn’t realise the library had so many books that would be useful for my subjects.

The Campaign for Culford

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ince its launch in 2012/13, the Campaign for Culford saw one of its key aims achieved in September 2015 when our stunning new landmark library was opened.

This was thanks in no small part to the generosity of Old Culfordians, parents and friends of Culford who contributed more than £750,000 towards the £2.2 million project.

special place at the heart of Culford and deserves a fresh, modern and inspirational main art studio to reflect and further inspire the great work that goes on there. We will launch a programme of arts focused events

in spring 2017, including an open event to showcase our exciting redevelopment plans; if you would like more information please email the Foundation team on foundation@culford.co.uk

The Campaign now moves on to Phase II with plans for a major redevelopment within the art department, amongst other projects. The art department is a truly 59

THE CULFORDIAN trips and activities

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme

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his year we had excellent weather on both our Silver expedition to the Peak District and Gold in Snowdonia.

However, on the Bronze assessment the heavens opened. I was delighted with the students, who in very demanding conditions, neither lost their sense of humour nor considered giving up, showing true D of E character and Culford spirit.

Seven pupils successfully completed their Silver awards: Oliver Beresford, Joe Foulger, Ed Harris, Lucy Hollis, Sam Lucas, Eleanor Rushforth and Henry Yannaghas. Kieran D’Lima completed the Gold Award.

With the departure of Mr Draper to his new position as Housemaster at Glenalmond College, 2016 saw a number of significant changes to the organisation of the Duke of Edinburgh Scheme at Culford. Thanks to Ian Roach’s continued support behind the scenes with planning and administration, the transition has been remarkably smooth.

I am now in charge of the overall scheme and thanks to the support of the School I have gained my Mountain Leader qualification enabling the school to continue running the Gold expeditions.

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Katie Noorlander, also a long-standing supporter of D of E, will soon gain her Basic Expedition Leadership Award Level Three, a qualification that certifies her competence to lead both Bronze and Silver expeditions.

Katie is leading the delivery of the Bronze award to the twenty plus Lower Fifth students who have applied this year. Her extra commitment, support on expeditions, administration and stores is vital and I wish to confer my thanks on behalf of the School.

Mr Barber has moved from supporting a Bronze D of E group to leading the Silver Award, a demanding role that requires persistence and tenacity, while Mr Arbuthnot is leading the Gold Award and will face the significant challenge of trying to get groups from both the Upper Sixth and Lower Sixth through the requirements of the Award this year.

Mr Doug Edwards

Community Spirit

THE CULFORDIAN community spirit

Charities

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he foundations of Methodism are faith, community and transformation.

It is our commitment to others both in our local community and in the small world in which we live that drives our charity work. The pupils run our charity efforts at Culford; they decide who we raise money for and put in the time and effort to make it possible.

This year we saw a tremendous fundraiser organised by our chair of Charities, Beth Deane: a clothes swap and cake sale that ignited the interest of pupils and staff. The sale was a huge success and combined with the proceeds of a non-uniform day we were able to raise almost £900 thanks to the generosity of the Culford community. We donated £443 to Dementia UK and £435 to XLP, a London charity which supports young people in deprived inner city estates. This is a spectacular amount and Beth and her team were very grateful for the kindness and commitment shown.

The 17 pupils who were headed to Malawi this year presented their projects to the Rosetta Trust and all did an amazing job.

Charity Restaurant 62

St Nicholas Hospice Care Raffle at Opera in the Park The total award of £8,000 was divided among the various projects based on project costings, the background research, the standard of the presentation, as well as the opportunities for practical involvement during the visit in July. You can read more

about these projects in the Malawi report on pages 64-67. The very enjoyable Malawi Quiz night, supported beautifully by Culford’s Jazz Band, raised £1,200 that was divided equally between the projects, which the pupils would work on during the trip.

community spirit THE CULFORDIAN

Edwards House Charity Swim

Walk in the Park for Macmillan In the Autumn Term each year we host our charity restaurant for Kailash Bodhi School, our partner school in northern India. Friends of the School and people from nearby villages packed out the pop-up restaurant in Culford Hall for two nights this year. We have been raising funds for Kailash Bodhi ever since a mountaineering expedition from Culford stumbled across the school on the India/Nepal border in 1999. Our fundraising has helped them pay for renovations to the school toilets, new classroom construction,

the purchase of school uniforms, a new mini-bus and other school equipment.

We also help to pay for school meals. This year the charity restaurant raised over £2,000 which is about 50% of the school’s donated income. We know that without the generosity of pupils, staff, parents and friends of Culford, Kailash Bodhi would not be able to operate. We thank the catering staff for providing the food at cost and the pupils and staff who gave up their evenings to wait at tables and organise the restaurant.

Throughout the year there are many specific House charity fundraising efforts such as cake sales and sponsored events, and it’s a feature of Culford that every House celebration or get-together includes an element of charity fundraising or awareness.

Rev Simon Crompton-Battersby

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ulford’s Walk in the Park for Macmillan takes place each year and is part of the nationwide Coffee Morning campaign. The Culford community raised over £300 with more than fifty parents, children, staff, OCs and friends enjoying a stroll around the school’s 480 acre estate. The walk finished at Culford Hall where everyone had the opportunity to buy homemade cakes, preserves and goodies, and take part in a charity raffle.

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Malawi 2016

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his year was Culford’s eighth visit to Malawi. During the 17-day trip, the team of pupils and accompanying staff implemented projects to improve the lives of some of the poorest people in this region of Africa, visiting schools, orphanages and even a prison.

We thank The Rosetta Trust for their generous sponsorship.

The pupils refurbished two classrooms at Nankhufi School, serviced and repaired boreholes, and built a new energy efficient stove for the village to help combat deforestation in Malawi. As part of the Good Food Project they served phala, a vitamin and nutrient rich soya porridge, to hundreds of school children and villagers, aiming to encourage children to stay in school by offering them a hot meal. Pupils also implemented Project My Girl, which provides PSHCE education for girls in Malawi and distributes sanitary kits. Again, this is a project which encourages girls to stay in school through adolescence, as well as educating them about their own bodies. Projects broadly fell under six categories; nutrition and food, clean water, 64

reforestation, building, education and sexual health and hygiene. Each project brought dynamic and rich experiences as pupils were able to interact with a broad range of Malawian people. While pupils were engaged in teaching, building and creating, they were simultaneously learning and growing themselves.

Pupils gained invaluable first-hand experience in the difference between ‘Aid’, which is often quick, easy and relatively cheap, and genuinely life changing development, which takes long term investment, time and considerable oversight and organisation by people on the ground. The pupils write more about the various projects on page 66.

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Along with the six projects which the pupils had researched and raised money for, pupils had other profound experiences of giving. One of these was the unique opportunity to visit a Malawian prison, where we sang, danced, played games and offered each prisoner a loaf of bread (a truly enormous gift in their eyes).

It was a truly humbling experience as the prisoners’ faith and dignity shone like a beacon. They sang songs of praise and joy in the midst of unthinkably poor, one might even say brutal, conditions.

Project initiator Andy Deane, Head of Modern Foreign Languages, is proud of the Sixth Formers who took part. He said, “It was so rewarding to see the pupils return to Culford with their eyes wide open as to the challenges faced by Malawi and its dear people. They return in the knowledge that they have helped in every possible way through their fundraising and voluntary work. We look forward to our next trip in 2017.”

The following quotation, inspired by the Talmud and Old Testament Scripture, perfectly sums up our feelings on the trip:

Do not be daunted by the enormity of the world’s grief. Do justly, now.

Love mercy, now. Walk humbly, now. You are not obligated to complete the work, but neither are you free to abandon it.

These words are profound in light of what pupils experienced in Malawi. The need for food, education, healthcare and development is staggering. At times it feels overwhelming. Each of the pupils and staff members wanted to do more and give more.

As a group, we realised we cannot solve the systemic problems with a three week visit, but neither can we stay in the comfort of our everyday lives and ignore the needs of humanity. We were all touched, moved and changed by the work we were fortunate to engage in. Our hope is that Culford will be able to continue its support of Malawi for many years to come.

Mrs Annie Hafermann 65

THE CULFORDIAN community spirit

Project My Girl

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This project really helped us feel as though we were part of something bigger than just the two and a half weeks that we spent there, because Culford has helped Nankhufi for many years and, after our input, will hopefully continue to do so for many more years to come.

his summer we continued the work of Project My Girl and The Man Project in Nankhufi School in the Lower Shire Valley of Malawi.

With the expert help and guidance of the Fisherman’s Rest staff, female members of the Culford team spent three days teaching reproductive health and menstrual hygiene management before we presented the girls with their reusable sanitary packs. We all enjoyed contributing to putting these packs together, and were particularly impressed that all the Culford boys got stuck into making sanitary kits.

This year we were also honoured to be given the opportunity to sit in with the mothers’ group from Nankhufi during their teaching sessions. Training the mothers from the local community will allow the community to continue to spread the positive work of Project My Girl and help the local girls to feel empowered and remain in school. For The Man Project, the male Culford pupils and staff successfully delivered a series of lessons on puberty and respect to the boys of Nankhufi. All of the teaching and materials were well received, as was everyone from Culford.

Both pupils and staff from Nankhufi were welcoming and friendly and extremely grateful for the time we spent with them.

The sanitary packs were a huge hit and will be cherished no doubt.

Max McCrea and Harriet Kirby-Smith

Eleanor Rushforth

Culford pupils and staff donated will most certainly save lives. Sam Lucas writes about his experience:

as the amount of healthy blood donated is far below what is required. Every year that our school goes to Malawi our blood donations are always gratefully received.

My personal experience of passing out after giving blood was one of great amusement to my friends and though I may have felt physically pretty rough after it, I can assure you it was worth it.

I would certainly do it again at the drop of a hat.

Nankhufi School Classroom Renovation

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he Culford group helped to renovate a classroom block at our partner school in Nankhufi. When we arrived, the work had already begun but it was clear that it was in a poor state. In one half of the block, the floor had been removed in preparation for plastering the walls. Many of us got involved in collecting the sand from the river as well as mixing the sand with the cement, and even helping the builders with the plastering.

Having spent three days of hard labour at Nankhufi, the project was still not finished.

Much still had to be done, such as laying the

floor and painting; a new roof was to be put on, including skylights for better lighting. The renovation was finished soon after we left Malawi and the results for the children are a substantial improvement.

Donating Blood

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ecause of HIV/AIDS, malaria, malnourishment and a lack of infrastructure, Malawi faces a devastating shortage of safe clean blood.

The blood shortage has a particular impact on women, mainly due to complications of pregnancy, children with severe life-threatening anaemia caused by malaria and malnutrition, and trauma victims. A significant number of deaths could be avoided if every hospital had access to a safe and adequate supply of this lifesaving resource. The blood that

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Though it sounds clichéd, giving blood was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. You know for a fact that your blood could be the difference between life and death for someone. Blood is one of the most in-need medical supplies in the world.

Malawi alone requires 80,000 units of blood per day to sustain demand. Our donations would have made a significant difference

Sam Lucas

community spirit THE CULFORDIAN

Woodland and Changu Changu Stove

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he Malawi Tree project is one which aims to have a resounding long term impact on Malawi. During our trip there, we literally saw the seeds of the project, previously planted by other groups, begin to grow and we had our own opportunity to make our contribution.

During our Malawi trip, we focused on the Changu Changu Moto side of the project.

Changu Changu Motos are special ovens that can be easily made with local materials.

They are four times more economical than traditional open air cookers using only four logs a night compared to twelve on the open air cookers. This allows families to save money while also reducing the number of trees that are cut down. The Changu Changu Moto project is aimed at teaching people in a local

community how to build a stove and then enabling that person to teach the skills to the rest of the community. Alternatively, if someone gathers the necessary materials – three types of locally found sand and 30 clay bricks are all that is needed – our host project base Fisherman’s Rest will send a monitor to build the Changu Changu stove for them.

The Tree Project is vitally important as Malawi has seen massive deforestation with detrimental effects on the land.

Trees are important in providing a prosperous environment which allows for positive change, keeping the soil healthy and protecting farmland from erosion and harsh weather. This is vital as Malawi is largely agricultural and, following a combination of multi-year drought and large scale flooding washing away crops and land, is in the early stages of famine.

Gabriel Williams

The Good Food Project

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ver the years that Culford School has supported the Good Food project, we have witnessed the many benefits that come from the funding. These include a dramatic increase in school attendance, fewer children with protein deficiency, and overall improved wellbeing of the children. Not only did we fund the project, we also helped to serve

the porridge that would give them the much needed energy to allow them to learn and grow.

This was an incredibly rewarding experience as we were able to see to see first-hand how the food was making a positive influence to the children as well as having the privilege to interact face to face with them. A single cup of soya porridge contains enough calories to

last them the day and is enriched with extra protein and essential vitamins. The cost to feed a child for an entire year is only £13.

Clearly with the positive benefits surrounding this project, it is essential that we continue to fund this incredibly important activity.

Fred Mann

Borehole Project

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hile we were building at Nankhufi, some of us had the opportunity to help repair the local boreholes.

Local women have to carry 70 litres of water for the school children’s lunch every day, and without these boreholes they would have much farther to walk. No one in the village knew how to repair the wells so teaching them was invaluable experience for both us and the village. We also had to pump out water afterwards to check that it was safe to drink.

Edward Chrispin

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THE CULFORDIAN house news

Cornwallis House Housemaster: Mr G. Reynolds Assistant Housemaster: Mr J. Fox Head of House: Harry Connor House Captains: Martin Sharples, Alex Sanderson, Jack Veitch

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hile for some, three is the magic number, for me it is 10.

The summer of 2016 saw family Reynolds complete their tenth year at Culford and it continues to be a joy to work with pupils, parents and staff in the role of Housemaster. The joy comes from seeing a spark of academic understanding in the eyes of a young learner, from laughing alongside young adults watching Match of the Day, from sharing the joy of a first try or goal and simply from the energy that comes from living in a community that is so vibrant.

So what makes life in Cornwallis so special?

Simply, the boys. The Upper Sixth, as ever, led the way in showing what success can be achieved when one follows one’s ambitions.

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it really special? A more humble, self-effacing, considerate, caring and balanced group of young men you could not wish to meet. This is what I believe Culford does for you: promotes the seeking of excellence but not at all costs.

These young men have their values firmly balanced in the community.

All enjoyed the learning journey from Fourth Form lessons to gaining an understanding of Port and Stilton at the Leavers Ball; all remained great company at all times; and all leave as true Gentlemen of Cornwallis ready to take their place in the adult world.

Harry Connor led the House with real vision and showed that you can combine academic excellence with a full commitment to everything Culford has to offer. He was well supported by his fellow Prefects. Alex Sanderson put the disappointment of injury behind him to form a boy band that played their first gig in Poland, Martin Sharples spent more time sleeping outdoors than in through his roles in the CCF and the D of E and Jack Veitch continued to try and take over the world through the medium of his squash racket and outstanding academic results.

Head Boy Kieran D’Lima honed his leadership style and led the School with distinction.

Time at Culford is never dull and as ever the Formal Dinner and the House Concert pulled the House together and the boys thoroughly enjoyed the events. Mr Rees spoke about the joy that is being a Welshman and the values he learnt growing up in Llanelli while Harry Connor combined wit and wisdom when talking about his work experience on a building site and his life in the House.

The House concert proved again not only

what talent there is in the House, but also how flexible the boys are in their thinking; we invited Jocelyn House to share the concert and the new-style combined House Concert worked really well.

Underpinning what goes on in the House is the support our matrons, Carole and Fiona, give to the boys. They are always on hand to offer advice and always willing to help when needed, but they are also happy to point out that maybe at times the boys need to think slightly differently. This makes them a real asset to me in running the House and to the boys in their personal development. We are all grateful to them for this.

I have to mention it‌ but do so with a pained expression! We did not win the House Cup, coming second to Edwards by two points, so my trophy shelf again remains empty. By such narrow margins are tears of sorrow and smiles of success separated.

Come on boys; get me the Cup back in 2016-17 academic year!

Every year group is an eclectic bunch and this year we had an international hockey player (Alex Blumfield, England U18s), a national standard boxer (Jake Sumner, ABA National Semi Finalist), an international rugby player (Michael Kimwele, Kenya U20s) and a national standard shooter (James Spratt, Great Britain Pathway for Clay Pigeon Shooting). Wow, simply wow. But what makes

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THE CULFORDIAN house news

Edwards House Housemaster: Mr S. Arbuthnot Assistant Housemaster: Mr N. Murray Head of House: George Terry House Captains: Charlie Holt, Freddie Statham, Joan Lukas-KĂźmpers

Mr and Mrs Arbuthnot

I

write this with a slightly heavy heart as it marks the end of my seven year stint as Housemaster of Edwards House.

Being a Housemaster is more than just a job, it is a whole lifestyle not just for the Housemaster but the whole family. With Charlotte as our matron, Edwards has been even more a part of us. My son Ollie is only nine and so Edwards House is pretty much all he remembers thus far.

The year was a good one and the boys were ably led by George Terry, our Head of House, who showed it is possible to be a busy School Prefect but also work really hard and get straight A’s in your exams. George was an inspiration to us all.

The first House event of the new academic year was the Formal Dinner, which was a roaring success, welcoming new arrivals and allowing the boys to mix and make new friends in a social setting. Sartorially, the dapper Edwards boys gave James Bond a run for his money, all being turned out impeccably in suits and smart jackets. Tables were set according to House Families, so that boys of all ages mixed and we all enjoyed a delicious three course meal. The entertainment was extremely well received, with musical pieces, Prefect awards and a competitive quiz. The bonds that were formed here were cemented for most of the boys over the rest of the year.

Centenary Hall was brought alive in March by the sounds of the Edwards community performing in our House Concert. Boys from all years took part, and the evening was a tribute to the House spirit and talent within Edwards. The evening kicked off with a 70

house news THE CULFORDIAN

hilarious video and a dance that can only be described as ‘brave’ from the Upper Sixth.

Freddie Statham was our compere and he managed the evening admirably while the Sound and Lighting crew did an able job co-ordinated by Cameron Fellows. The concert included a variety of acts, from Zander Minns and Cameron Southgate-Ash’s piano pieces and Warok Rai’s virtuoso guitar playing, to Jordan Asiama and Riley Carr’s charismatic turn demonstrating magic, and Mr Tully’s juggling maestros. Two of the best received acts were future recording mega-star singer/ song-writer Josh Chalfen (don’t forget I said this when you are famous and handing out the Ferraris please, Josh) and Brandon Ng, who got the building rocking with his drum tribute to David Bowie. Bruno Parrott impressed on guitar, and jazz duo Vincent Hrondmanik and Henry Jackson-Wells also wowed the audience with their mature and upbeat performance. The evening was rounded off with a rousing whole House sing-along of Neil Diamond’s Sweet Caroline.

Before I became Housemaster, Cornwallis had won the House Cup for five successive years. I am pleased we managed to put a stop to this, winning the majority of them during my tenure. It was important we won this last year and I am delighted to report that we did. It was all the more pleasing as

Cornwallis came an incredibly close second, so we could allow them to sniff victory before snatching it from under their noses in the final minute of the final competition of the year.

In my new role as Head of Sixth Form I will still get to look after all the boys pastorally when they reach the top of the School, which I am looking forward to. We have been very fortunate to recruit James and Gail Holiday-Scott as the new team of Housemaster and Matron – they are an exceptional couple and I know they will continue to develop and improve Edwards House. Edwards is such a special House and it is lovely that the boys are guided by such a simple House motto: iustum ut agamus, ”so that I may do the right thing.” Having this to refer to means lists of rules are not really necessary and it ensures a very strong, positive and inclusive culture in Edwards House.

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THE CULFORDIAN house news

Fitzgerald House Housemistress: Mrs B. Murray Assistant Housemistress: Miss H. Mayhew Head of House: Eve Holder House Captains: Constance Ash, Lucy Holder, Amelia Nunn

T

he annual Formal Dinner held in September was a resounding success with the girls turning out exquisitely dressed despite having successfully completed the 5k Inter-house cross-country run just hours before. Later in the term we enjoyed the barbeque and football where all the age groups mingled and competition was fierce. Other House outings and celebrations across the year were equally enjoyable.

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For the third year running Fitz girls, dressed as the Pink Ladies, won the House Singing Competition performing Summer Nights from Grease. Hannah Littlechild, Scarlet Simmons, Sophie Jamil and Emily Hope took first place in the ensemble category with a memorable a capella rendition of Counting Stars.

School drama continued to provide opportunities for talented Fitz girls who took a range of roles in the outstanding School

musical production of Les MisÊrables. They should be commended on the amount of work that was required in a very short space of time to ensure that the musical was such a great success. In the autumn, several Fitz Sixth Form girls were involved in the moving production of the play L’Atelier.

house news THE CULFORDIAN

Sport has always played an important part in the lives of Culford pupils and once again Fitz girls excelled across the board, winning the House swimming, netball and hockey competitions as well as the senior basketball. Hannah Brecknell and Olivia Nicolai enjoyed competing in the national swimming finals in the 4x50m relay.

In tennis, Carolin Minners, Abby Taylor and Kira Reuter qualified for the national finals in Bolton.

We were all very proud of Lucy Holder for being selected to play for the England U18 Hockey squad, and of Siqi Fang for her involvement in various national maths challenges and for achieving a distinction for losing only one mark in the UKMOG. Siqi’s outstanding A level results and resultant place at Cambridge are well deserved.

Having decided to stand down as Housemistress of Fitz to focus on my role as Head of Learning Development, I owe a huge debt of gratitude to all my colleagues and the girls. The tutors and matrons work tirelessly to make Fitz the happy place it is and on behalf of everyone I would like, in particular, to thank Jan Dunning and wish her every happiness after being a Matron at Culford for more than 16 years. I would also like to welcome my successor, Mrs Lydia Bryant, who I’m sure will thoroughly enjoy the vibrant and happy atmosphere of Fitzgerald House.

Matron Jan Dunning 73

THE CULFORDIAN house news

Jocelyn House Housemistress: Miss J. Kaye (to December 2015) Mrs S. Haughey Assistant Housemistress: Miss C. Olley Head of House: Melissa Heybourn House Captains: Miriam Braun, Anna Flynn, Katie Collier

W

hen I joined Jocelyn House in January, I will admit that I was a bit nervous. I knew that it would be difficult for the Jocelyn ladies to say goodbye to Miss Kaye, their previous Housemistress, and who knew if they would even like me? I am perhaps a bit over-enthusiastic about life and I use the word “awesome” rather a lot. Also I am American, and therefore don’t understand basic elements of British life like meat-pies and netball.

I was invited to be the guest speaker at the Jocelyn House Formal Dinner in the Autumn Term, to introduce myself and get to know the lovely ladies of Jocelyn House. It was this experience which confirmed for me that joining the Jocelyn community was the right decision. I was so impressed by the comfortable and gentle atmosphere, the talent and creativity evident in the singing and decorations of the evening and the

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Former Housemistress, Jess Kaye kindness of everyone in welcoming me that evening. That feeling has continued to be a common thread through my first year as Housemistress of Jocelyn House.

New Housemistress, Sarah Haughey

house news THE CULFORDIAN

Life in Jocelyn House is never boring.

From movie marathons to trips to Winter Wonderland, Sparkly Unicorn Awards, making flower crowns and trips to the spa there is always something going on.

I especially enjoyed the House Concert, which allowed many to showcase their talent with a mix of music, comedy and even a Sixth Form movie. In House competitions, we were narrowly beaten by Fitz in the House Singing, but it was a Jocelyn girl, Olivia Allum, who took first place overall in the Culford 5k Inter-house cross-country.

Jocelyn House is such a wonderful and vibrant community, and one that I feel very privileged to have become a part of. This atmosphere is generated by all of those who embrace the opportunity to be a part of something special, and support one another.

Head of House Melissa Heybourn and our team of House Captains should take great pride in their leadership of the House; they are a wonderful group of young women and will be much missed. The outgoing Upper Sixth have impressed and amazed with their leadership, innovation and charm.

We have music dynamos, drama stars, sports champions, trained peer counsellors, innovative artists, linguists and so much more.

But most importantly, we have compassion, energy and creativity. Every one of these young women has exciting futures ahead of them and we wish them well as they move on to the next stage in their lives.

Rebecca Beardmore and her team of Prefects took on the challenge of leading Jocelyn House from the Summer Term, and they already have many exciting plans. I know that they will learn a great deal during the next year, and that they will lead Jocelyn with compassion and energy.

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Sporting Achievements

THE CULFORDIAN sporting achievements

Rugby U14 The team played eight games, winning one, with a narrow defeat at Norwich School followed by their only win at Sudbury RUFC, a particular highlight. The team’s attitude and commitment throughout the whole season was excellent. The progress of Jack Bowyer, Alex Hassan, Ryan Gittins and Freddie Nash has been recognised by Northampton Saints who have included them in their Elite Player (EPDG) or Developing Player Pathways (DPP).

U15 The U15s had a competitive season.

Despite winning only twice they have been competitive in every game. The team worked hard and showed a real development in their skills, getting better and better with each game. The fixture against RHS and the final match against Wymondham College were particular highlights, both games going down to the last few minutes. The team developed a sound understanding of what will be required next year when they move up to Senior rugby. In addition, Tommy Freeman has been selected for Leicester Tigers EPDG and Charlie Ives and Luca Kirk have been selected for Northampton Saints EPDG.

Culford U14 Back row (left to right): W. Hilsum, O. Melville-Ross, E. Kilbane, F. Nash, M. Derbyshire, R. Gittins, M. Melia and J. Hanson. Front row (left to right): R. Salisbury, A. Marumahoko, C. Stephens, A. Hassan (Capt), C. Whyte, J. Bowyer and T. Oluyede.

2nd XV The squad of players who represented the 2nd XV can be very proud of their efforts this season. The team had to cope with injuries to key players, as well as having many players

playing in positions to which they are unaccustomed. The team recorded victories in three of their seven games. As the season progressed, the team started to play together more coherently as they began to get used to each other’s style of play. Our forwards worked much better as a unit towards the latter half of the season and our backs interlinked very well. Some of the stand-out performances came from Alex Packer and George Terry.

1st XV The 1st XV had a developing season, winning five of their 13 games. The October tour to Scotland, as always, provided the ultimate test, with a hard fought defeat en-route at York and a bruising and superb victory at the stunning Stirling County ground. The last game of the tour was against Dundee who narrowly defeated us 17-12, securing the win with a try at the death.

Culford U15 Back row (left to right): H. O’Kelly, F. Mason, M. Bell, H. Bertie and J. Gibbs. Middle row (left to right): R. Carr, R. Dautzenberg, J. Asiama, F. Evans, O. Hamilton and G. Gillis. Front row (left to right): L. Kirk, J. Walters, T. Freeman, C. Ives, F. Schofield, S. Kaye and A. Minns.

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Credit must go to all players for rising to the challenge, consistently performing well and playing a fast, expansive and dynamic style of rugby. Captain William Hammerton has

sporting achievements THE CULFORDIAN

Culford 2nd XV Back row (left to right): J. Vickers, D. Ekpe, R. Jasper, C. Carter, S. Nash, G. Terry, E. Davis, H. Connor and J. Habib-Allah. Front row (left to right): L. Bovington, E. Field, J. Waller, W. Burman, F. Scott, A. Packer and F. Allum.

again been outstanding in both attack and defence. In attack, Jake Sumner and Michael Kimwele have been excellent, creating and scoring some fine tries. The team can be proud of their efforts and some of the individuals were rewarded with regional honours. In particular, Tom Brown’s selection for the Northampton Saints Senior Academy was a highlight.

Rugby Sevens During the months of March, April and May the Sevens team entered several prestigious School Sevens competitions. Some excellent sevens rugby was played in all events. In the Oakham Sevens tournament the team narrowly missed out on a quarter-final place to Trent College with the last play of the game. In the Reigate Sevens, the team lost to Whitgift in the quarter-final. The floodlit Halliford Sevens saw the school emerge

Culford 1st XV Back row (left to right): F. Allum, J. Spratt, F. Mann and F. Scott. Middle row (left to right): K. Zuta, T. Smith, R. Usaris, A. Dhesi, H. Davies, B. Nel, J. Barley and C. Schofield. Front row (left to right): W. Burman, M. Blazys, C. Southgate-Ash, T. Brown, W. Hammerton, J. Sumner, A. Sanderson, J. Waller and M. Kimwele.

as worthy winners at the home of London Irish. Culford took the title in extra time with a great team performance backing up

individual excellence from the captain Jake Sumner, Michael Kimwele, Tom Brown and William Hammerton.

Photo by Andy Abbott of Abbott Photography

In May the team entered the prestigious Bury ULR International Sevens Competition which was a challenging but fantastic experience for all involved. The team gave a great account of themselves against adult sevens teams, including the Royal Navy and Samurai Bulldogs.

Mr Mark Bolton

Culford Pupils in Bury Rugby 7s Tournament 79

THE CULFORDIAN sporting achievements

U14A Girls Back row (left to right): C. Scott, M. Richardson, A. McCullough and E. Wildish.

Middle row (left to right): N. Dahl, M. Cailes, G. Mason, C. Moulton, C. Hassan and E. Davis.

Front row (left to right): L. Goodall, I. Bettley, Y. Zuta, C-J. Parsley, I. Whyte, T. Holt and H. Carter.

Girls’

Hockey U14 The team have made great progress this term in their understanding and tactical knowledge of the 11-a-side game. Chloe-Jèane Parsley was the key player in the centre of the team, working hard in both attack and defence.

Isabel Whyte was a powerhouse in the centre of defence, Yaa Zuta was quick down the wing and Charlotte Moulton was a determined attacker. New players like Megan Richardson coming into the team added to the attacking line-up, and the whole team benefitted from the contributions made by players from the Prep School. Although there were some heavy defeats, the team as a whole worked well together, remaining competitive and continuing to attack whilst also maintaining structure and commitment in defence. The highlight of the season was the match against Wymondham, where the U14s played some lovely flowing hockey, linking up well across the pitch and scoring some excellent goals to win 6-0.

U15 The team made great progress throughout the season. Magdalena Buerk played with fire and determination and there is no doubt she inspired others with her positive attitude.

The defence of Anna Hutchinson along with Alice Holt, Alice Barkley and Emily Oulton kept the opposition working hard. Lowenna Clarke and India Rich combined well up front

and Lowenna used her speed and strength in order to score some great individual goals, causing huge excitement.

Emma Howard and Mary Grace Godfrey were outstanding all term. Emma stepped in to the centre midfielder role with full enthusiasm and commitment for the majority of the term, often setting up the opportunities to score. Mary Grace Godfrey has been awesome in goal, making some amazing saves. Katie Shea deserves congratulations for being selected to play for the Senior Squad for the majority of the term.

2nd XI The highlights of the season were great wins against King’s Ely and Woodbridge.

Each of the fixtures ended with very close results with many attacking and scoring opportunities and some very tense moments.

Many of the girls played with determination during the fixtures and also enjoyed the training sessions led by Mr Bedwell. It was a shame to lose Carolin Minners back to her native country; however other members of the team should look forward to the next season and continue their development into the season of 2016.

1st XI The 1st XI girls played an exceptional season yet again and almost had a third

unbeaten season in a row, losing only one match. This did not have much impact on the overall success of this outstanding team, as they won the regional championship earlier the same week and qualified for the National finals.

The team started the season with confident wins against OCs, Bishop’s Stortford and The Leys, and continued to show great development as a team. The forward line with Emma Watson, Eve Holder, Jemma Andrews, Katie Farrant and Isabella O’Brien-Miller worked hard to score 16 goals in just those three matches, supported by an excellent midfield. Lucy Holder, Nella Walters and Ella Dowling as our attacking three in midfield and Maria Andrews as defensive midfielder worked tirelessly between our defensive and forward line. With smart tactical game play they produced not only successful outcomes but outstanding hockey to watch.

We continued the season with more wins and conceded only eight goals in the next 11 matches. Our defence was led by the youngest 1st XI goalkeeper in School history as far as we know, 13 year old Beth Farrow.

She did an amazing job at such a young age and shows great promise for the future.

She was supported by Olivia Mayor, Milly Haydon, Abbie Farrow, Saskia Crawford, Carolin Minners and Katie Shea in defence, who all worked very hard and continued to progress throughout the term.

We ended the season on a high, qualifying for the National finals. The tremendous work ethic and dedication to achieving our goal shown by all the girls, combined with a lot of talent, made this a season to remember for a very long time. Scoring 43 goals and conceding only 8 during our Saturday matches shows how we dominated the fixture list. I am extremely proud of this team, an amazing group of young women who show so much promise.

U15A Girls Back row (left to right): A. Hutchinson, J. D’Lima, A. Barkley, O. Allum, E. Howard and E. Oulton.

Front row (left to right): M.G. Godfrey, M. Howarth, A. Holt, K. Shea, L. Clarke, C. Anderson and M. Buerk.

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Leonie Kammeijer, Hockey Professional

2nd XI Girls Back row (left to right): R. Harvey, C. Bottomley, A. Callaghan and F. Luscombe. Front row (left to right): B. Farrow, C. Glimson, S. Owles, T. Ruleva, C. Fraser-Cox, H. Benton and K. Veitch.

1st XI Girls Back row (left to right): S. Crawford, N. Walters, M. Andrews, L. Mayor, C. Minners, I. O’Brien-Miller, E. Watson, A. Farrow and K. Shea. Front row (left to right): B. Farrow, E. Holder, M. Haydon, L. Holder, E. Dowling, K. Farrant and J. Andrews.

National Under 18 Girls’ Hockey Finals

I

n March Culford First XI girls played in the National Under 18 finals at Lee Valley Olympic Park in London.

In our first match, although slightly nervous at the challenge ahead, we managed to get some good shots away from our forwards, putting our opponents Queen’s College under pressure. However, a good counter attack from the opposition saw Queen’s take the lead. The rain that had been threatening got heavier and in the second half it started to hail turning the pitch from blue to white. At this point we had an injury to Lucy Holder, our key midfielder and Captain, which eventually put her out of the whole competition.

Although a blow to the team and very disappointing personally for her, the girls rallied through and we went into half time only 1-0 down. However we were physically dominated by a confident Queen’s outfit and eventually conceded another 2 goals, losing 3-0.

A walk to see the London 2012 Olympic rings inspired us and raised our spirits ready to play the second and main game against Cranleigh School under lights that evening. Once again the girls were a bit overwhelmed with the physicality and pace of the game; however we started to play some good hockey, laid strong tackles and

made good connections with our team mates.

A solid penalty corner routine and a great rebound from Jemma Andrews saw Culford take the lead! Against a team full of England players this was a fantastic start. With the team working together, inspired by Jemma Andrews in midfield, our defensive unit making some fantastic tackles and Beth Keswick making some great saves in goal, we managed to hold off some very strong attacks from Cranleigh.

Our team started to dominate the opposition; a few shots went wide but we kept building and applying pressure. They eventually cracked when Ella Dowling broke through the midfield line, ran wide up the right hand side and crossed the ball into the circle. Katie Farrant, whose work rate was second to none throughout the whole tournament, broke away from her defender and deflected the ball into the bottom right hand corner… what a goal!

Unfortunately the umpires were not on our side and appeared to be the only ones in the stadium who didn’t see the great touch, and frustratingly gave a free hit to Cranleigh. No goal! The girls were understandably deflated by this turn of events and a momentary lapse of concentration saw the opposition take the ball, and within less than 20 seconds we had a penalty stroke against us and one of our players being sent off to the sin bin for five minutes. Now Beth Farrow stood between the goal and an England under 21 player for Cranleigh. Beth dived to her low right and

saved the penalty! But alas, this was all that we had for the game. Cranleigh took advantage of their extra player and we went away 3-1 down.

Adrenaline was flowing after such an exciting game; spirits were still high after the match, with the girls finally recognising that they can actually compete at this level if they believe in themselves and work together as a team.

The final game was against another big hockey school, Leeds Grammar School.

The team came out a little weary and tired in the first half. We were struggling to link passes together and get any rhythm.

Connections were not quite coming off and we were getting frustrated with each other, leaving us 3-0 down at half time. A pep talk got us back in the game and before we knew it we had scored twice to make it 3-2.

Unfortunately the final score saw us 4-3 down. It was a weary group of girls that left the field to a hero’s welcome from the huge band of supporters who had cheered us on the whole way over both days. The girls grew in stature over the tournament and we all learnt some valuable lessons.

The girls grew as hockey players, competing against far more experienced players and teams from much larger schools. They should be proud of their performances.

Mr Blake Burrows

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THE CULFORDIAN sporting achievements

Boys’

Hockey U14 Despite playing with determination and enthusiasm, the team had a tough season with one draw but no victories. They found themselves coming up against much bigger and stronger opposition but this did not deter their spirit and desire to continue to wield their hockey sticks each week. They showed great improvement as the season went on which was very pleasing to see, coming close to victory on several occasions.

Their potential as a group is very positive and they now have good foundations to build on.

Culford U15A Boys Hockey Back row (left to right): F. Schofield, J. Walton, C. Ives, O. Hamilton, H. O’Kelly and A. Minns. Front row (left to right): A. Oxley, L. Kirk, J. Gibbs, J. Asiama, T. Freeman, J. Walters and H. Bertie.

time, but after being given an inspirational address they came out like possessed athletes in the second half. They managed to score four goals, the last coming with three minutes remaining, and then scored the winner with seconds to spare. It was a fantastic match that saw a mixture of players from the Senior School band together to represent themselves and the school with pride.

1st XI

Culford U15B Boys Hockey Back row (left to right): J. Cope, B. Lowden, V. Hromadnik, A. Cruickshank and H. Butler.

Front row (left to right): C. McGregor, J. Brown, A. Brayshaw, F. Morrison, H. Black, T. Bowen and J. Birkel.

The more they train together the more it will start to come together on the pitch. Thanks must go to Mr Devlin for his guidance, and we look forward to seeing what this group can achieve next year.

U15 The team made a statement this year with a very successful season. An early loss to Norwich was disappointing but the team were unbeaten from then on, including some spectacular victories which included a 10-0 demolition over RHS, a 9-1 victory over Woodbridge and a 7-2 victory over Framlingham College. There were some outstanding performances from individual players this season but the pleasing thing 82

to see is that they understand the concept of team work. This team can be devastating to the opposition, going forward with pace and tenacity, and the midfield and defence is very solid and composed. I look forward to working with these gentlemen over the next few years and seeing what they can make of their potential.

2nd XI A season of highs and lows: the Culford School 2nd XI knows how to fill a Saturday afternoon full of drama. Although the season finished with a devastating loss to Woodbridge, the team should remember their outstanding performance against RHS the previous week.

In that game the team was down 4-0 at half

Was this the season that could have been?

We started extremely well with a 9-0 drubbing of The Leys in our National Cup Fixture and followed that up with a great win against Framlingham College. After two games the team were sitting in a good position. A draw and a win the next weekend against Norwich and Kimbolton showed the team that they had some work to do implementing and adapting to the introduction of a new style of playing. Unfortunately for such a talented group of individuals, this was the extent of our good performances for the season.

Some fantastic goals were scored during the season which often had the crowd in raptures, and there were also some outstanding saves made. Congratulations and special mention must be made to Alex Blumfield who was selected for the England U18 team, and we wish him, and all the rest of the team, the very best with their hockey for next year.

Mr Blake Burrows

sporting achievements THE CULFORDIAN

Culford 2nd XI Boys Hockey Back row (left to right): J. Davies, K. Zuta, E. Davis, G. Terry and F. Mann. Front row (left to right): S. Woods, J. Vickers, W. Burman, J. Habib-Allah, M. Whittaker, L. Bovington and A. Dhesi.

Culford 1st XI Boys Hockey Back row (left to right): W. Burman, A. Packer, M. Mitcham, H. Davies, E. Field, A. Dhesi and W. Baines. Front row (left to right): B. Whittaker, M. Kimwele, W. King, A. Blumfield, R. Usaris, C. Holt (Capt), D. Corbett, J. Walters and J. Gibbs.

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THE CULFORDIAN sporting achievements

Netball U14 The U14s had an extremely strong season and were unbeaten. The girls have shown determination in all matches and played well as a team in lots of different combinations throughout the season. The team were successful in making it to the Regional Finals after winning the County Tournament. They played some excellent netball during the day gaining invaluable experience, finishing third in the group stages of the competition.

A highlight of the season was the win against Framlingham, always a close competition and no exception this season; it was goal for goal throughout the whole game.

Culford kept their heads, remained calm and managed to pull away in the final quarter winning 27-23, an excellent team effort led

by Captain Beth Farrow.

U19 Netball team after their match against The Perse School, Cambridge

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sporting achievements THE CULFORDIAN

U15 The U15 netball team played well this season and have gelled as a team. Captained by Alice Barkley, the girls came up against some tough competition but played hard until the final whistle of each game. The adaptable Katie Shea in centre court was able to control the pace and movement of the ball down the court. Their best game this season was against King’s Ely, a game which

highlighted just how far the team has come, and showing a very promising prospect for our senior netball teams next year.

great promise and potential for next year. It was rewarding to watch them grow both as a team and as individual players this season.

3rd VII

2nd VII

The 3rd team made some great progress.

Captained by Sophie Mason, they went from strength to strength. The last match of the season against Royal Hospital School was a very close one, and showed a strong side with

Emma Watson captained the 2nd VII netball team brilliantly, encouraging her players to work hard and become more established as a team. The first match of the season was against their strongest opposition, Norwich School, and highlighted the versatility of the squad and their individual potential.

1st VII The 1st team had a wonderful season winning the Western Area Tournament, finalists at Counties and semi-finalists at Regionals, narrowly missing out on reaching the Nationals Finals. They were led by Milly Haydon who had a quiet energy and respect from the team. They performed outstandingly well during the netball season, winning all bar one of their matches. The team will miss Milly and Anna Flynn who have been tireless with their support for netball over their years as players in the Senior School and coaches for the Prep School. However, it is an exciting prospect for next year to see how far this team will progress and the success that they will achieve.

Mrs Collette Reynolds

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It’s about the journey.

Whole School Opening Morning Bank Holiday Monday 1 May Pre-Prep & Nursery (ages 2¾-7) Prep School (ages 7-13) Senior School (ages 13-18)

Please contact us to book a place at our Open Morning or to arrange a personal visit:

01284 385308

www.culford.co.uk

An independent boarding & day school for boys and girls aged 2¾ to 18 years

admissions@culford.co.uk

Culford School, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP28 6TX Reg Charity No.310486

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sporting achievements THE CULFORDIAN

U14A Back row (left to right): M. Fitton, M. Cailes, G. Mason and C-J. Parsley.

Front row (left to right): L. Bettley, F. Sanderson, B. Farrow, Y. Zuta and E. Wildish.

U14B Back row (left to right): C. Shrewsbury, M. Kolb, J. Neill, C. Moulton and M. Richardson. Front row (left to right): A. Villegas Sanabria, L. Goodall, I. Whyte, C. Scott and L. Rushforth.

U14C Back row (left to right): J. Zhang, C. Hassan and C. Losada. Front row (left to right): A. Hutchinson, B. Parrot-Arminsen, E. Davis, R. Asai and H. Gonzalez-Canedo.

1st VII Back row (left to right): B. Keswick, A. Farrow, O. Mayor and L. O’Brien Miller. Front row (left to right): J. Andrews, S. Crawford, M. Haydon, M. Owino and A. Flynn.

U15A Back row (left to right): E. Hope, O. Allum and K. Shea. Front row (left to right): A. Taylor, L. Clarke, A. Barkley, M.G. Godfrey and E. Howard.

U15B Back row (left to right): A. Hutchinson, E. Oulton, L. Mason, M. Buerk, O. Yannaghas and J. D’Lima. Front row (left to right): A. Messo, J. Lovatt, C. Anderson, E. Farthing and J. Yakubu-McCall.

U15C Back row (left to right): J. Lovatt and A. Messo. Front row (left to right): L. Buisman, C. Clifford, J. Yakubu-McCall (Capt), O, Yannaghas and H. Pym.

2nd VII Back row (left to right) B. Northeast-Roffey, A. Callaghan and C. Cox. Front row (left to right): E. Gillis, E. Watson, K. Farrant and J. Hall.

3rd VII Back row (left to right): R. Beardmore and E. Knight. Front row (left to right): G. Deane, A. Sutton, S. Mason, K. Shilitoe, and S. Neill.

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Boys’

Cricket U14 The U14 season was once again hampered by adverse weather and a light fixture card, with opposition teams pulling out at extremely short notice. The side was captained by Oliver Melville-Ross, an intuitive, resourceful, sympathetic and clear-thinking captain who led the side to three wins out of four completed games. Wins against Wisbech, Woodbridge, and our very own U15s in the Culford Cup, proved the highlights of the season. Jack Prior and Harry Wendelken were good additions to the squad, with ball and bat respectively, although we missed William Pickersgill due to a season-long injury. This team certainly made big strides throughout the season and is one to watch as they progress through the School.

Culford U14A Boys Cricket Back row (left to right): R. Gittins, A. Hassan, F. Nash, M. Derbyshire, J. Prior and R. Salisbury. Front row (left to right): E. Baines, C. Stephens, H. Wendelken, O. Melville-Ross, R. Rutnam, W. Hilsum and J. Bowyer.

U15 Across the season, the U15s have been involved in several hard fought games, unfortunately coming off second best in all but two events. Great wins were enjoyed over Kingsbury High of London and Wisbech Grammar. We have watched the players work hard both individually and as a team, and develop their core skills in a sport which, by and large, they have grown to love.

Tommy Freeman’s 53 against Woodbridge and Jess Walters’ 99 against Wisbech were highlights whilst Emma Howard’s bowling remained consistent throughout the season, a thorn in the side to most opposition.

Alex Cruickshank worked hard across the year with the Culford Cricket Programme and this showed dividends as he was rewarded with a place in the 1st XI.

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Culford U15A Boys Cricket Back row (left to right): G. Southgate, R. Carr, O. Hamilton, E. Howard and A. Minns.

Front row (left to right): H. Bertie, A. Cruickshank, A. Oxley, J. Waller, T. Freeman, F. Schofield and L. Kirk.

THE CULFORDIAN sporting achievements

2nd XI The 2nd XI had four fixtures early in the summer and they were all played in a positive, exceptionally high spirited way: T20 school cricket at its best with plenty of big sixes and wickets galore. Will Burman put a lot of energy into the team and the boys rewarded him with a closely fought three wicket win over The Perse.

1st XI From the start of January, with the announcement of Freddie Statham as Captain, the boys worked exceptionally hard in training and took the new method of training for a competitive season in their stride. The emphasis was placed on specific, focused training from rotating the strike to power hitting and death bowling.

Culford 1st XI Boys Cricket Back row (left to right): M. Mitcham, A. Dhesi, C. James, W. Burman and D. Corbett.

Front row (left to right): C. Holt, F. Allum, B. Whittaker, F. Statham (Capt), A. Packer, M. Whittaker and A. Oxley.

We started the season with a loss against The Leys in a T20 but turned that around six days later with a convincing win over St Joseph’s College. The MCC arrived with an XI that would give most Premier League sides a good game and the boys performed exceptionally well ending on the losing side by 44 runs. A spectacular T20 followed at Royal Hospital School. Having been asked to bat and finding ourselves in trouble after losing four quick wickets, Matthew Mitcham and Ben Whittaker produced the partnership of the season taking our total to 184 for 4 which gave the bowlers the 90

freedom they needed to produce a 10 run win. Framlingham and Wisbech provided little competition this year and our next tough fixture was the President’s XI led by former Deputy Head Mr Morgan. The boys controlled this game beautifully and were again victorious. We finished the season with two draws against The Perse and Gentlemen of Suffolk plus a convincing win against the Old Culfordians. The boys amassed 8 wins, 2 losses and a draw across the rain-hit season.

Mr Andrew Northcote

Andrew Northcote, Director of Cricket and Cricket Captain Freddie Statham with the Merlyn by Bola bowling machine

sporting achievements THE CULFORDIAN

Girls’

Cricket

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his year saw the beginning of girls’ cricket at Culford. The majority of schools in our area are gradually adopting cricket as their major summer sport and with the success gained by our national women’s side and the growth of the sport generally for girls, this was a welcome move for many.

Cricket is a highly technical sport but can be accessed by the majority. The focus therefore this summer was on building basic skill level, confidence and an enthusiasm for the game.

Training began indoors and Miss Olley quickly found a group of Fourth Form and Lower Fifth girls who were keen to develop their skills. Along with athletic and tennis fixtures each week, two cricket fixtures were played against The Perse and the girls showed an improvement between the two dates. The first fixture was played at Culford against The Perse U15B side.

The format was 20 overs each in pairs, with two runs being awarded for a no ball.

Captain Lowenna Clarke chose to field first and soon opened the bowling with some accurate and devastatingly quick deliveries straight at the wicket resulting in The Perse finishing their first pairing in minus figures.

Lucy Mason took the first catch when bowling her over and Isabel Whyte took a nice high catch shortly after. Mary Grace Godfrey looked alert in the field and was soon rewarded with her first catch.

Culford went into bat feeling positive, and the partnership of Katie Shea and Lowenna Clarke made a great start to the innings, scoring a strong pairing of 39 runs, with the first boundary being scored by Lowenna.

Katie quickly followed and other batters scored some vital singles and doubles as well. It was all to play for in the last pair

of the afternoon as scores were tight.

Ruby Townsend and Lucy Mason needed to score runs and not get caught or bowled.

Ruby reacted well to the pressure and scored a lovely boundary and together they ran some good singles. The final result was a win to Culford 100-81. Player of the Afternoon was awarded to Lowenna Clarke, who encouraged her team throughout the game, particularly when the girls were struggling with bowling.

The return fixture saw the team step up without their captain, and although the girls played some good cricket and got some well-deserved runs, The Perse had been working on their bowling since the last match and this resulted in more wickets being taken. The final score was 65-81 and player of the afternoon was awarded to India Rich.

Looking towards 2017, we hope to field Senior, U15 and U14 teams and play six fixtures throughout the season.

Thanks must go to Miss Olley for all her commitment and enthusiasm and also to Mr Northcote for his continual guidance and encouragement.

Mrs Kerry Kemp 91

THE CULFORDIAN sporting achievements

Cross-Country and Athletics Cross-Country

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he Culford 5k Challenge is the first Inter-house event of the academic year, and involves all pupils from the Senior School over a 5k course within Culford Park. It is an open race, with all years competing against each other, plus some staff taking part as well. For the first time, the overall race was won by a girl – the talented Olivia Allum of Jocelyn House.

Culford 5K Challenge

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Will King of Edwards was second, and Kieran D’Lima took third place for Cornwallis. The Staff winner was Mr O’Riordan.

Those that performed well in the Culford 5k were invited to take part in the Suffolk Schools’ Cross-Country trials. The first round, held at The Royal Hospital School in October, saw some excellent results for Culford runners.

Maisy Cailes and Georgia Mason in the Junior Girls race, and Miles Melia, Jack Bowyer, Rohan Salisbury and Harry Wendelken in the Junior Boys, all ran well enough to qualify for the second round of the competition. They were joined by Lana Mo, Cody Fraser-Cox, Rhianna Walton and Katrin Beutel, showing a strong standard of running within the older age groups.

sporting achievements THE CULFORDIAN

The Suffolk Schools trials continued in December and through to the final round held here in Culford Park on a very cold, wet and windy January day. Having performed well over the three qualifying rounds, Olivia Allum, Maisy Cailes, Rhianna Walton and Katrin Beutel were all selected to represent Suffolk Schools at the Regional Cross-Country Competition in Lincolnshire in February. Olivia had an excellent run in the Regional competition, and was then selected to compete for Suffolk at the English Schools’ Cross-Country Event in Nottingham in March, to complete an excellent season of competition for her.

Mrs Elisabeth Long

Athletics

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thletics in the Senior School continues to be popular, with opportunities to compete in both individual and team events.

The Schools Cup in early May shows the need for early training, and is always one where a good team spirit is evident. In this year’s competition, the Girls team performed well to finish in 3rd place in their initial round, with excellent performances from Olivia Allum (1500m), Emily Wildish (high jump and 200m), Maisy Cailes and Niamh Perry (both 800m and shot) and Chloe-Jèane Parsley (discus). The Boys team faced strong opposition, finishing in 4th place, but with a good overall points score. Fergus Schofield (100m and high jump), Oscar Hamilton (javelin), Jordan Asiama (shot) and Max Derbyshire (hurdles and triple jump) also scored well for the team.

Individual performances of note for this year include Katrin Beutel who

demonstrated the breadth of her athletic talent, performing well in long jump, 200m and high jump in the Suffolk Schools Trials. Katrin competes in heptathlon in her native Germany and willingly gave her time to coach others after school. Other commitments prevented her from representing Suffolk Schools at Regional and National level, and we wish her well as she continues her athletics career back home.

Max Derbyshire (hurdles) and Olivia Allum (1500m) were both selected for the Suffolk Schools’ team at the Regional Finals in Norwich in June. Max had an excellent race, finishing a close 3rd in his race. Following a good performance at the Regional event, Olivia went on to be invited to represent Suffolk in the 1500m event at the English Schools Track and Field Championships in Gateshead for the second year running.

Mrs Elisabeth Long

Olivia Allum at the English Schools Cross Country Championships Culford 5k Challenge participants

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THE CULFORDIAN sporting achievements

Tennis

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his was our most successful year in the history of Culford tennis, beating the achievements of any previous year on both a team and individual level.

We currently have 20 tennis Scholars and full programme players, along with 10 very promising performance players. The School Tennis Development Programme continues to flourish with a further 20 players who play regularly throughout the year, and offers individual and group lessons to children of all standards at different stages of their tennis development.

Harry Wendelken finished the academic year off in fantastic style with victories in the 14 and Under National Championships, winning both the Singles and Doubles, and the 14 and Under Road to Wimbledon Championships, again winning both Singles and Doubles. Joe Tyler was runner-up in the 18 and Under National Championships, losing to the number 1 seed after an impressive run to the final. Joe played some very aggressive tennis throughout the tournament and was rewarded with a call-up to the Great Britain Men’s National Camp.

Harry Wendelken

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LTA Team Tennis Schools Y10 and Under National Championships

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ulford Year 10 Boys were crowned National Tennis Champions in December after a fantastic performance which saw them defeat Merchiston Castle School, Lancaster School and Claire’s Court School at Bolton Arena.

This is the most prestigious National title ever won by the School and involves 600 teams from across Great Britain. The competition starts in the summer with the County Schools Championships and progresses onto the Regional Championships before the culmination of the event in the

Year 10 boys National Champions 2015

National Finals. It has been an incredible journey and I am so pleased for the team of Oscar Cutting, Karim Najia, Charlie James, Ed Pomeroy and Clemens Rathmanner.

The Year 8-11 girls team came very close to adding a second National title for Culford with a second place finish, losing a really close match to Millfield School after victories against Kirkham Grammar School and Wilmslow High School. Kira Reuter, Abby Taylor, Millie-Mae Matthews, Carolin Minners and Nerea Arraras were magnificent all weekend.

sporting achievements THE CULFORDIAN

Suffolk Girls U19 Doubles Championships

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he Senior Girls Team won the Suffolk U19 Girls Doubles Championship on Saturday 11 June for the fourth consecutive year in the annual event played at Framlingham College.

The team pictured is Back Row L-R Leonie Schnoor, Marie Owino, Emily Sim, Lily Knape Front Row L-R, Lowenna Clarke, Abby Taylor.

The team won by 8 games.

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THE CULFORDIAN sporting achievements

ISTA Independent Schools Championships

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ira Reuter and Abby Taylor won the 15 and Under Girls ISTA Independent Schools National Title at Eton College to cap a marvellous four days of competition.

Having beaten a strong pair from Millfield School in the semi-final they won against St George’s School in the Final. Emily Sim and Lizzie Pam played really well to reach the Under 19 Girls semi-final, losing a very close match to Queenswood School, while the Under 19 Boys lost a really close semi-final to Millfield in a one set shoot-out after the match finished 1-1. This was a fantastic effort from Joe Tyler, Will Davies, Oscar Cutting, Freddie Grant and Karim Najia.

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Senior 1st Girls (Left to right): E. Sim, H. Vickers, E. Pam, D. Hall, M. Andrews, K. Reuter and A. Taylor.

sporting achievements THE CULFORDIAN

Senior 1st Boys Tennis (Left to right): O. Cutting, W. Davies, D. Hall, F. Grant and J. Tyler.

Tennis Senior 2nd Team (Left to right): M. Jurkonis, H. Wendelken, D. Hall and C. James.

Year 10 and Under (Left to right): N. Cutting, M. Langer, H. Wendelken, T. Turner and K. Najia.

Year 10 and Under (Left to right): S. Castro Vazquez, X. Xiang, M. Melia, W. Rai and J. Birkel.

Year 10 and Under (Left to right): X. Bell, A. Nunez, D. Hall, Y.N. Loo and T. Turner.

Year 10 and Under (Left to right): C. Losada, K. Reuter, D. Hall, A. Taylor and L. Buisman.

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THE CULFORDIAN sporting achievements

LTA Team Tennis Schools National Championships

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ulford were the only school in Great Britain to have four teams represented in this year’s LTA National Tennis Championships – Aberdare Cup for the Girls and Glanville Cup for the Boys. This is the first time this has been achieved by a school. The players were magnificent and all performed superbly. They were a real credit to the School both on and off the court and we created a huge and positive presence at the event. Overall we were delighted with the final positions of the teams which reflected the progress we have made when comparing ourselves with the best schools in Great Britain.

The Boys A team of Will Davies, Joe Tyler, Freddie Grant and Oscar Cutting justified their top 4 seeding to reach the semi-finals against Reed’s School, the winners for the last nine years. We had chances to win

two of the matches, losing close final set tie-breaks, but ultimately they proved too strong and this set up a play-off against Merchiston Castle who defeated us last year. We were keen to avenge this and with

Joe Tyler, Emily Sim and Will Davies

a superb performance finished third overall, our highest ever finish in the boys’ event.

Our Girls A team also reached the semi-finals with ease to play against Talbot Heath, Bournemouth, the number 2 seeds. The team of Lizzie Pam, Kira Reuter, Maria Andrews, Emily Sim and Kylie Bilchev again played well but lost 10-2. The play-off against Cheam High proved really close and went to a tie-break shoot out after the match finished 3-3. Unfortunately we could not quite close this out and lost to lose the match overall finishing in fourth place.

The Boys B team of Ed Pomeroy, Charlie James, Harry Wendelken, Karim Najia and Tom Belton came sixth overall, an fantastic finish position, while the girls B team came tenth. This is outstanding for such a young team, three of whom were still in Prep School – Jana Higazy, Millie-Mae Matthews and Laurie Cruickshank, with Abby Taylor and Marie Owino.

Tennis Awards

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ur second annual Tennis Awards evening was held in Centenary Hall in June with over 120 guests attending on a beautiful summer’s evening.

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Award Category

Player of the Year Winners (Boy)

Player of the Year Winners (Girl)

Most improved winners (Boy)

Most improved winners (Girl)

14 and under

Derrick Chen

Kylie Bilchev

Warok Rai

Awarded externally

16 and under

Karim Najia

Awarded externally

Harry Wendelken

Abby Taylor

18 and under

Joe Tyler

Emily Sim

Will Davies

Lily Knape

18 and under Strength and Conditioning

Freddie Grant

Emily Sim

sporting achievements THE CULFORDIAN

Swimming

The medals came in thick and fast with Taylor Bowen and Lana Mo taking first places in their year groups: Taylor in 50m, 100m and 200m Breaststroke and Lana in 50m and 100m Breaststroke, 200m Backstroke, 200m IM and 100m IM, qualifying her for the SKINS round. This consists of eight swimmers racing against each other in one of the four strokes every three minutes, with the slowest swimmer being eliminated each round. Lana made it through to the 5th round.

Suffolk County Championships

Taylor Bowen

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ighteen Culford pupils qualified for the 2016 Suffolk County Championships, which were held at Ipswich Crown Pools throughout February. Between them, they competed in 138 individual events, with two of those swimmers, Annabel Heywood and Chloe-Jèane Parsley, also qualifying for the long distance Championships, which

were held separately at the 50m long course pool on the UEA campus in Norwich.

There were some fantastic performances from the Culford swimmers, picking up personal bests and medals with some Culford competitors going through to the East Region Championships.

East Region Swimming Championships

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ur swimmers were in fine form, with Jack Bowyer winning 3 medals from the 5 events that he competed in. Racing in the 14 years age group, Jack dominated his butterfly events, being crowned Regional Champion in the 50m and 100m Butterfly finals, winning by over half a second in the 50m race and over a second in the 100m race, both in new personal best times. Jack’s other medal came from the 50m Backstroke race, where he won Silver. He narrowly missed another medal with a fourth place finish in the 200m Backstroke event. With his impressive results throughout the weekend, Jack finished 4th overall in the 14 years Top Boy category.

Olivia Nicolai and Angus Robins also competed in the Youth Championships with the vast majority claiming new long course (50m pool) personal best times.

There were Silver medals in several events for Hannah Brecknell, Lana Mo, Olivia Nicolai, Taylor Bowen and Angus Robins, with Jack Bowyer winning Silver in an astonishing 12 events. Hannah, Annabel, Olivia, Taylor, Jack and Angus also gained Bronze medals as did Charlie Whyte.

With points scored for each swim, swimmers are awarded overall places. Taylor Bowen finished in 2nd place overall in the 15 years age group, Hannah Brecknell 4th overall in the 16 years age group; Lana Mo 4th overall in the 17 and over age group; Jack Bowyer 4th overall in the 14 years age group; Charlie Whyte 5th overall in the 15 years age group and Angus Robins 6th overall in the 16 years age group.

In addition, Jack Bowyer, Chloe-Jèane Parsley, Taylor Bowen, Jacob Clarke, Angus Robins and Lana Mo all contributed to the club relay success, with Jack, Taylor, Jacob and Lana winning Silver medals.

Niamh Perry, Taylor Bowen, Lana Mo, Jacob Clarke, Hannah Brecknell, Charlie Whyte,

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THE CULFORDIAN sporting achievements

Three Counties Gala

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ack Bowyer, Lana Mo and Angus Robins represented Suffolk at the Three Counties gala against Norfolk and Cambridgeshire, held at the UEA Sports Park Norwich, putting in some great performances.

(Left to right): Angus Robins, Lana Mo and Jack Bowyer

Lana competed in the individual 16 and under 100m Breaststroke, where she came third, and was involved in two winning relay teams earning some valuable points for the Suffolk side.

Angus also competed in an individual event, finishing fourth in the 16 and under 100m Backstroke event, and the boys 4x50 Medley relay where the team came third.

In the boys 14 and under 4x50 Medley relay, Jack Bowyer put in a fantastic Butterfly leg, also competing in the 4x50 Freestyle relay, with both teams finishing in third place.

Suffolk was victorious on the day, well over 100 points ahead of Cambridgeshire.

British Summer Nationals

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ack Bowyer qualified for three events at The British Summer Nationals in July, an event which pits the best swimmers from Great Britain against one another.

Jack got off to a great start in the heats of the 50m Backstroke event finishing the race with a personal best time of 30.28, just under 0.5 of a second off a place in the final. This time placed him joint 17th in the country in the 13/14 years age group.

In the 100m Butterfly event Jack had made it through to the 13/14 years Final and finished in 10th place, and on the last day of the British Summer Championships, Jack contested the 13/14 years 50m Butterfly event, his favoured event. Jack finished his heat just outside his best time by 0.18 seconds, but it was enough to make it into the finals later that evening where he gained 6th place, set a new personal best time and was just 0.4 seconds away from a medal position.

Ms Celia Almond

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sporting achievements THE CULFORDIAN

ESSA 58th National Team Championships

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he 2012 Olympic Pool was the venue for a team of Culford swimmers who had qualified from the Regional rounds. The Intermediate boys team consisted of Taylor Bowen, Jack Bowyer, Jacob Clarke and Charlie Whyte and the Senior girls team was Hannah Brecknell, Annabel Heywood, Lana Mo

and Olivia Nicolai. Both competed in 4x50m Freestyle and 4x50m Medley relays.

The girls finished in 16th place in the Senior Girls Freestyle, just 2 seconds outside making the final, and got through to the final in the Girls Senior 200 Medley where they finished 9th overall.

In the Intermediate Boys 200 Medley relay the team finished in 12th position, 0.9 seconds short of making the final.

They just missed out again on the final for the Freestyle relay, despite another strong performance with all swimmers putting in sub 29 second performances and finished in 14th place.

The Bath Cup

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fantastic race, improving on their morning swim by nearly 2 seconds to come away with the Silver medal, narrowly beaten by the City of London Freemen’s School.

The first event of the day was the women’s 4x50 Freestyle relay where the girls qualified for the Aldenham Girls final. They had a

The afternoon saw the girls competing successfully for a place in the Dunelm Girls final, in the Medley relay. The team pulled out all the stops for the Final where they achieved a fantastic 2:08.78 final swim to bring home the Gold medal ahead of Cranleigh School.

his was the third time that the team had competed in the annual Bath Cup relay competition and once again, they did themselves and the School proud, picking up medals for each of their swims. The Culford School relay team consisted of Annabel Heywood, Hannah Brecknell, Lana Mo and Olivia Nicolai.

(Left to right): Lana Mo, Annabel Heywood, Hannah Brecknell and Olivia Nicolai with their Aldenham Freestyle Final Medals

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THE CULFORDIAN sporting achievements

Sporting News

Lucy Holder and Alex Blumfield

2015/2016 Tom Hudson Skiing Anglo-Scottish Cup

Culford Hockey Stars Picked for England Squad Tom Hudson’s Storming Start to British Alpine Season

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om Hudson made an emphatic start to the Alpine Racing season in January 2016 by winning the Artemis Anglo Scottish Giant Slalom (GS) U16 cup and taking 3rd place in the BSA GS race. A notable achievement, given Tom has just moved up from competing as an U14 racer!

After the race Tom paid tribute to his coaches at BSA and Norfolk Ski racing plus the fitness preparation at Culford. Commenting on the race Tom said, “I knew my skis were running well. I was clocked during training at just under 70 mph. Conditions on the

day were tricky with mist and wet snow but I just had to go for it! I am still developing my GS skills so this is a really great start to my season.”

Tom, aged 15, is hoping to build on his successes of last year when he secured podiums at most of the major British Alpine events and a creditable 13th place (out of a field of 47 from 33 nations) as an U14 racer for the GB team at Abetone in Italy.

He spent the Spring Term on the Alpine slopes with the British Ski Academy, training and competing for Great Britain children’s team.

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ixth Form pupils Alex Blumfield and Lucy Holder were selected to represent England U18 Hockey as part of the 2016 National Age Group Training Squads (NAGS).

They worked extremely hard at School, club and regional training sessions and matches on their technical skills, mental attributes and strength and conditioning in order to gain their elite selection in a very competitive age group. More impressive still is that they reached this top-flight level alongside studying for their A Level exams.

Head of Hockey, Blake Burrows, said, “We are very proud of Alex and Lucy’s achievement. It is an exciting time for them and for Culford hockey.”

Culford in a spin with world’s 61st Merlyn bowling machine

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he Culford Cricket Programme is now the proud owner of a new Merlyn by BOLA spin bowling machine; one of only 61 in the world to date.

The state of the art machine delivers programmable spin bowling to enable

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players to practise against top class consistent spinning balls with a number of variations and speeds, giving them a realistic testing workout indoors. Because the Merlyn can get the ball to spin more than a bowler, batsmen will face tougher challenges than they are likely to meet in a real match, thus helping to vastly improve their game play.

The 61st ‘Merlyn by BOLA’ machine in the world

sporting achievements THE CULFORDIAN

Golf 2016

Culford pupils from Nursery and Pre-Prep to Sixth Form via timetabled lessons, after school clubs and activity sessions.

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feel privileged to be writing the first golf report for the Culfordian after what has been an extremely enjoyable and successful opening year. It would be easy for me to focus on high performance golf, but with a handicap system that allows players of vastly different abilities to compete against each other, golf really is a sport for all.

With that in mind one of my proudest achievements for the year has been creating a golf programme that is accessible to all

A new partnership has been forged with Royal Worlington Golf Club, and Flempton Golf Club is once again a part of Culford life.

Re-forming this link led to the reinstatement of the Flempton v Culford match after a 20 year hiatus. This year the Culford side came out on top and we will be working hard to keep it that way for many years to come. More success came when Culford golfers won the inaugural match against the OCs, also held at Flempton. A particular highlight during the match was Fourth Form pupil William Kibbler achieving his first hole in one with a four iron on the 5th, a moment he will never forget.

Outstanding performances came from several of our golfers during the year. This included our first golf scholar Max Adams being crowned Suffolk U16 Schools Champion on a testing October day at Felixstowe Ferry Golf Club. Max, who had only just turned 14 years old, posted such a superb round that he only missed out on winning the U18 division by just two shots.

The second Suffolk school meet was the Team Championship played at Hintlesham Hall Golf Club on a cold, wet day in March. All of our golfers battled hard despite the conditions and our B Team scooped the runners-up spot. This finish earned Georgia Parker, Thomas Howard and William Kibbler a place in the National Final which was played at Woodhall Spa Golf Club later in the year.

Woodhall Spa is the home of England Golf and boasts two fantastic championship courses and superb practice facilities. The event was played on the Bracken course, which plays very long and demands an excellent touch on its large undulating greens. The team finished in a very credible eighth position out of 34 teams, with an impressive performance coming from William who tied the winning individual score on 40 points, narrowly missing out on victory on countback. This was a valuable experience for our golfers and we will be aiming to improve on this in the coming year.

With five new golfers joining us in September, the arrival of Trackman technology, and plans to develop our indoor golf facilities, the future is looking bright for the Culford Golf Academy.

Mr Lawrence Dodd, Director of Golf

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THE CULFORDIAN culford foundation

News from the Foundation What is the Foundation?

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he Foundation department works hard to friend-raise and fundraise for Culford School. Set up in 2000, the Foundation keeps in contact with over 4000

The Foundation Team: Samantha Salisbury (Foundation Manager), Jo Johnson-Munday (Foundation Director), John Humphries (OC Liaison Officer) and Jessica Glover (Alumni Officer)

Old Culfordians and East Anglians (OCs and OEAs), offering regular social and networking events. We also raise funds for the development of facilities at Culford and for bursaries which provide financial help for children who would not otherwise be able to attend the school.

The Foundation team, led by Foundation Director Jo Johnson-Munday, organises a variety of reunions, sporting and other events throughout the year. This includes an annual drinks reception in London, exhibitions in the Foundation Gallery, Opera in the Park and the Leavers’ Ball.

Foundation Events 2015/16 The Foundation hosts a series of fantastic events for Old Culfordians and friends of Culford throughout the year. Please see a selection of photographs below: London Drinks Reception, April 2016

For more information, please visit the website: www.culford.co.uk/foundation

Careers Support for Recent Leavers

T

he Foundation is keen to utilise its fabulous network of OCs to help current and former students with their careers whenever we can. We do this by making connections for them with alumni working in the industry that they are interested in and occasionally helping past pupils with work experience at Culford. Two of these shared their recent experiences with us:

English and History of Art at Sussex University and as a student has long summers; never one to sit around Lizzie worked in the Foundation Office during most of June, July and August this year. This meant that she was fully involved in Opera in the Park, the Leavers’ Ball and preparing for the official opening of the new tennis courts and hockey pitch in September 2016.

While she was still at school Lizzie Burge (2013-2016) helped out with Culford’s first ever Opera in the Park in 2014 and she has continued to help with the opera every year, being a key member of the organisational team. Lizzie is now studying

Lizzie says “I am interested in Event Management since working in the Foundation Office. It’s been excellent industry experience for me, which is such an important thing when I start to look for employment after leaving university”.

Ruth Friswell (2007-2014) was at Culford for seven years before she started her architecture degree at Sheffield University in 2014. She says, “I always had an interest in teaching and wanted to see what it was like. I arranged a couple of weeks’ work experience at Culford in the design technology and art departments.” Under the supervision of Culford teachers, Ruth was able to lead some Fourth Form lessons and also impart some design knowledge to Sixth Formers doing their A Levels. However, sometimes work experience shows what a person might not enjoy pursuing, as much as what they would, and this was the case for Ruth who explains, “I came to the end of a very tiring ten days fairly firm in the knowledge teaching was perhaps not the career for me at this stage in my life, though I’m not ruling it out for the future.”

She has decided to continue with her architecture degree and to look for a placement to begin her RIBA part two training.

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OC Hockey Matches, January and September 2016

Fifth Dinner Club Reunion, September 2016

Opera in the Park

THE CULFORDIAN

Saturday 18 June 2016, South Front

C

ulford was thrilled to welcome over 600 guests to its third outdoor Opera in the Park with London Festival Opera on Saturday 18 June. Once again the evening was sold out and the sun came out for picnics, Prosecco and sublime music, with generous opera goers donating over £1,400 to St Nicholas Hospice Care.

On the beautiful South Front lawns, guests enjoyed pre-ordered luxury hampers, took the opportunity to explore Culford’s glorious gardens and even had the chance to look at an Audi R8 Coupé, which was parked on the lawn, courtesy of Opera in the Park’s supporter, Bury St Edmunds Audi.

With the support of the event’s lead sponsor, Lacy Scott & Knight, London Festival Opera gave an abridged performance of Mozart’s The Magic Flute and a gala performance of opera favourites after the interval. We were also thrilled to welcome back talented former pupils Florence Taylor and Joseph Dodd, who sang with the company.

Profit from ticket sales went to the Campaign for Culford, which is raising funds to refurbish the School’s main art studio.

Culford’s Foundation Director, Jo JohnsonMunday, said, “It was a stunning evening.

After a day of rain, the sun came out just

at the right time. London Festival Opera’s performance was exceptional. It was especially wonderful to hear Old Culfordians Florence and Joe perform on the night.

We are already looking to next year’s event and hope we can raise even more for charity.”

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THE CULFORDIAN positions of responsibility

Culford Senior School

Positions of Responsibility 2015/2016 Head Boy Head Girl Deputy Head Boy Deputy Head Girl

Kieran D’Lima Maria Andrews Thomas Guntrip Bethany Deane

School Prefects

Constance Ash Miriam Braun Katie Collier Harry Connor Anna Flynn Eve Holder Lucy Holder Charlie Holt Melissa Heybourn Joan-Lukas Kümpers Amelia Nunn Alex Sanderson Martin Sharples Freddie Statham George Terry Jack Veitch

School Council Exec Chairs

Kieran D’Lima Maria Andrews

Chapel Steward

Melissa Heybourn

Charity Committee Chairs

Bethany Deane George Terry

ICT Committee Chair

Niall Buckley

Pupil Academic Chair

Thomas Guntrip

Sixth Form Committee Chair

Lucy Holder

Sports Captains Rugby Girls’ Hockey Boys’ Hockey Netball Cricket Girls’ Tennis Boys’ Tennis

William Hammerton Lucy Holder Charlie Holt Milly Haydon Freddie Statham Maria Andrews Will Davies

Photo Credits: Wendy Turner/Red Shed Photography, Simon Jones/Bonjour Photography, Warren Page, Tom Soper, Shaun Scott, Adam Scott, Andy Abbott, Jono Le Grice. CGI on page 59 by Turner Creative.

Culford School makes reasonable effort to include accurate information in The Culfordian but makes no warranties or representations as to the accuracy of the published content.

Registered Charity No. 310486

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The Culfordian 2015/16

Senior and Sixth Form

Culford School, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP28 6TX Tel: 01284 728615 Email: admissions@culford.co.uk www.culford.co.uk