Young Decanian Cover 2021_Layout 1 13/12/2021 22:37 Page 1
Young Decanian
Lansdown Road Cheltenham Gloucestershire GL51 6QS Telephone 01242 512217 www.deanclose.org.uk
Cross Country‘bubbles’ Let’s film a drama production! Leaders in online learning
Young Decanian Cover 2021_Layout 1 13/12/2021 22:38 Page 2
Staff Teaching Staff
Young contents
Decanian
Technicians
Mrs Melanie Andrews
Art and Design Technology Teacher
Reverend John Ash
Chaplain (Foundation)
Mrs Henrietta Cross Mrs Helen McWilliam-Clune
Mrs Emma Bailey
Designated Safeguarding Lead / Head of Girls’ Games / Science Teacher
Teaching Assistants Mrs Sophie Cooper
Mrs Lisa Bailey
Year 5 Teacher
Mrs Rachel Beecham
Deacon Houseparent / Geography Teacher
Mr Simon Bell
Director of Schola Cantorum
Mrs Rachel Bowen
Music Teacher
Mr Robin Brown
Head of Mathematics
Mrs Jo Cahill
Head of Learning Support
Mr Steve Cahill
Geography Teacher
Mrs Maria Chare
EAL Teacher
Miss Cathie Cooper
Drama Teacher
Mr Michael Cooper
Caldecote Houseparent / Mathematics Teacher
Mrs Katherine Cox
EAL Teacher
Mrs Sarah Davies
Head of PSHCE and Wellbeing
Mr Matthew Dobbs
Head of Latin
Mr Kevin Donnelly
Director of Studies
Miss Annabel Eelbeck
Year 3 Teacher
Mrs Jenny Fletcher
Year 4 Teacher
Mr Daniel Fraine
Wilton Houseparent / Head of Science
Mrs Kate Fraine
Wilton Houseparent / Year 4 Teacher
Mrs Anita Godley
Assistant Director of Music
Miss Rosalind Goldrick
Modern Foreign Languages Teacher
Mrs Christine Goodwin
Head of EAL
Mr Jonathan Gould
Academic Director / Head of History
Mr Eric Harris
Oaksey Houseparent / RS Teacher / PSHCE Teacher
Mr Jonathan Harris
Deputy Head (Operations and Compliance) / History Teacher
Mrs Louise Hunt
Head of Pastoral / Forest School Coordinator
Mr David Jones
Head of Design and Technology
Mrs Lynne Lawrence
Director of Drama and Dance
Charity ..........................................40
Headline News ................................2
Pastoral .........................................41
Mrs Jane Lyons
Learning Support Teacher / Chorister Tutor
Angus Caton....................................6
Form Photographs ........................43
Mr Tim McVittie
Director of Music
Active Academics ...........................8
Boarding Houses...........................46
Mrs Joanne Morgan
Science Teacher
Creative Writing ...........................14
Day Houses ...................................49
Mrs Julie Moss
Science Week ...............................16
Prefects and Head Pupils .............52
Maths & Swimming Teacher / PS Swimming Coordinator
Music ............................................18
Sport .............................................54
Mr Paddy Moss
Headmaster
Schola Cantorum .........................22
Equestrian.....................................58
Mrs Sharon Ridsdale
Year 3 Teacher
Miss Charlotte Rubringer
Head of Computing and Digital Learning
Mrs Clare Salisbury
Head of RS
Mrs Rosemarie Scharf
Learning Support Teacher
Mrs Joanna Sheldon
Fortfield Houseparent
Mr Robert Shelley
Head of English
Mr Christopher Standing
Yeaman Houseparent / English Teacher
Mr John Sutherland
Director of Sport / Head of Boys’ Games / Common Room Co-Chair
Mrs Lucy Sutherland
Head of Art
Sports Day.....................................60
Art Department .............................28
Speech Day ..................................62
Design & Technology ...................32
Leavers’ Trip..................................66
EAL ...............................................35
Old Decanian Society....................68
Forest School ...............................36
Development ................................70
Chaplaincy ...................................38
Staff ..............................................72
Edited and produced by: Katie Azam & Bob Shelley General Photography: DCPS Staff Design: Adam Hathaway (Hathagraphics Ltd.)
Miss Emma Harris Mrs Ruth Harris Miss Penny Sparrow Miss Julia Windsor
Teaching Assistant / Caldecote Houseparent / Saturday Receptionist Boarding Coordinator / Teaching Assistant / Deputy Safeguarding Lead Teaching Assistant Teaching Assistant Teaching Assistant Teaching Assistant / School Librarian
Academic Support Staff Miss Bryony Parkinson Mr Simeon Taylor Mr Harrison Williams
Chaplain’s Assistant (Sep 2019 – Jul 2021) Chaplain’s Assistant (Sep 2020 – Jul 2022) Choral Scholar (Mar 2021 – Jul 2021)
Mrs Alice Gould
Office and Administration Support Staff Mrs Katie Azam Senior Marketing Co-Ordinator Ms Sara Clark PA to the Headmaster Mrs Katie Fergusson Head of Admissions Mrs Rhian Hayes Registrar Ms Katie Miller Greatbatch Administrative Assistant Mrs Sadie Johns Admissions Assistant Mrs Deborah Smith Office Manager and School Secretary
Headmaster’s Introduction.............1
Drama ...........................................24
Science Technician Art and DT Technician
Mrs Sophie Thomas
PE Teacher
Mr Bruno Veron
Head of Modern Foreign Languages
Mr Giles Wadsworth
Year 4 Teacher
Mr Phillip West
Year 5 Teacher / Common Room Co-Chair (Bold = member of SLT)
Nurses & Matrons Mrs Rose Bright Mrs Elenita Hills Mrs Alexandra Horlock Miss Aoife Housden Mrs Jane Plant Mrs Rachel Smith Miss Niamh Spiers
Saturday Health Care Supervisor EHCaldecote Matron (Non-Residential) AHWilton Matron (Non-Residential) Resident Pastoral Assistant, Wilton (Sep 2020 – Jul 2021) Fortfield Matron (Non-Residential) Health Care Supervisor NSResident Pastoral Assistant, Fortfield (Sep 2020 – Jul 2021)
Tutors/Gappers Mr McKenzie Brailsford Miss Emma Darby Miss Michaela Pinkham Mr Oliver Way Miss Imogen White
Caldecote Gap Year Tutor (Sep 2020 – Jul 2021) Fortfield Gap Year Tutor (Jan 2021 – Mar 2021) Fortfield Gap Year Tutor (Jan 2021 – Dec 2021) Caldecote Gap Year Tutor (Sep 2020 – Jul 2021) Wilton Gap Year Tutor (Apr 2021 – Jul 2021)
Games Coaches – Part Time Mrs Fleur Cradock Mr Leaun Davies Mr Lee Fortey Mr Tom Harris Mrs Katie Holder Mr Ben Jenkins Miss Kelly Long Mrs Angie Pearce Mr Jason Poole Mr Mike Powell Mr Andrew Stanley Mr Gary Tredgett Mr Matt Yemm Mrs Norn Warden Mrs Donna Withers
Director of Equestrianism Hockey Coach Rugby Coach Tennis Coach Director of Netball Strength and Conditioning Coach Director of Swimming Games Coach Tennis Coach Director of Cricket Director of Rugby Director of Hockey Director of Tennis Games Coach Games Coach
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 20:53 Page 1
headsintroduction
Headmaster’s Introduction to 2020-21 Magazine
am truly delighted that we are able to share with you so much of the news, events and developments at Dean Close Prep over the academic year from September 2020 to July 2021. Reflecting on this period in the school’s history, a year unlike no other, is crucially important as we put into context the loss as well as the learning, the challenges alongside the triumphs, and the many individual stories of hard work and success.
I
Over the year, the Prep School community learned to cope with change, with learning days away from school, with limited contact with friends and with even less time enjoying some of those especially fulfilling activities such as sport, drama and music. However, despite this new schooling environment, there was still so much to celebrate and enjoy, as can be witnessed in the pages ahead. Foremost amongst these, was being able to reflect and
refocus on those essential skills that allow a community such as that found at DCPS to flourish. The importance of communication, collaboration and compassion for each other, together with the steadfast school values of courage, contribution and love, which lie at the heart of these many achievements. That these were possible, owes much not only to the front-line services out of the school, but also to the hard work and dedication of the talented staff at DCPS. To these many valued members of the DCPS community, both teaching and support, we shall be forever grateful. Enjoy your read.
Paddy Moss, Headmaster
Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 1
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:42 Page 2
headlinenews
Headline News Remember to WISH A semblance of normality had started to return at the start of term, but as the pupils were reminded in assemblies, whilst much is the same, there are significant differences to be expected too. In ensuring that we are all able to work in a safe environment, the children were taught about the new procedures and routines in place to ensure that hygiene is maintained and that everyone adheres to year group bubbles. In being asked to ‘Remember to WISH’, new golden rules were shared with the whole community. The most important of these is to work together, to look after each other, helping everyone to remember the key rules all the time. Whether boarders or day, new pupils or old-hands, young or old, I have been delighted with the manner in which the pupils have taken in their stride the arrangements in place.
Christmas Hampers Choristers at DC House The choristers have been working hard since just before the beginning of term, rebuilding and getting used to singing together again. We have enjoyed rehearsing in our new temporary rehearsal space in Dean Close House - and the staff who work in that building have enjoyed hearing the boys singing every morning at the start of the day. We began singing Evensong in the school chapel - with social distancing in place between each singer. At the moment, the choir is singing services on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and it has been good to welcome teachers from the senior and prep schools who have read lessons as a part of our worship.
2 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
With all the hampers ready, beautifully decorated and bursting at the seams with essentials and treats for Christmas, it was time to load the sleighs (Mrs Waltham and Mrs Swan's cars!) and send them on their way. Making a human chain, 6D passed each hamper from beneath the Christmas tree for delivery, carefully keeping all the crackers, baubles and bows in place. A HUGE thank you needs to be said to everyone who has played their part in this festive project. As well as each tutor group and junior form class, our peri music teachers, admin and front office staff and learning support team have also contributed a hamper. In total, we were able to send 55 Christmas hampers to Fresh Hope, which will undoubtedly help to bring some joy to those less fortunate than ourselves for Christmas 2020.
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:42 Page 3
headlinenews
The Sound of Music Our poignant Remembrance Service on Wednesday 11th November included the playing of The Last Post, performed beautifully on the trumpet by Lucas Preece. The Last Post is a bugle call, originally used to signify the end of a battle to those fighting in war. Today it is used as a symbol of Remembrance, and the now traditional long held notes allow us to take time to think of those that gave their lives in service of others. In our service we also enjoyed anthems sung by the Year 7 Bubble Choir and the Schola Choristers from Years 4-6.
Cross Country Despite the rather wet weather on Wednesday the 21st October, it was fantastic to see all the pupils compete for their house in the Inter House cross country event. As with all things at the moment it could not take place as normal, however it was still a great event with everyone trying their best. The junior races were won by Ellie Jones and Will Bunner. Edward Willsher and Verity Lilley won the intermediate race between the Year 5 and 6 pupils. The senior event had to be split into a Year 7 and Year 8 race. The Year 7 girls' race was won by Lucy Turner and Arthur Clarkson won the boys events. In the Year 8 race Lucas Preece won the boys race with Ellis Woolley claiming the girls' race. We are also pleased to announce the house winners. It is worth noting that the position of all the runners contributes to the overall standing of the house. The results are as follows: House winners Junior boys: Yeaman Junior girls: Deacon Inter boys: Boarders Inter girls: Boarders Senior boys: Boarders Senior girls: Deacon Overall Champions: Boarders We would like to congratulate all the runners for their efforts when running and for the atmosphere they created when spectating. Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 3
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:42 Page 4
headlinenews
Teaching online…again! The start of the Lent term saw our teaching staff continue to work at their desks, but providing 'live' real time lessons to all of our pupils during the second lockdown, via webcams in Google Classrooms. However, three separate groups of children started their new term IN school as critical worker pupils. Based in different parts of the school, they too enjoyed as normal a day as possible, logging on to lessons to join their classes…
Opening of the
Playground playground was officially opened. Due to the important part that the current members of the Junior School Council played in its design and planning, they were given the privilege of cutting the colourful ribbons on each of the new elements of the playground. With the formalities done, it was soon put to great use!
4 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:43 Page 5
headlinenews
National Day of Reflection A poignant moment was held at the Prep School on Tuesday 23rd March 2021, as the school joined with events held across the nation to reflect on a year since the first UK lockdown. As part of the ‘National Day of Reflection’, pupils and staff were reminded of the life-changing experiences we have all been through, the things that we have and have not been able to do and the importance of working, learning and spending time together. We remembered those who have lost their lives to this disease across the world and stood in support of those who have been bereaved. The pupils were also reminded of the many people to whom we need to show gratitude, who have helped us all to get through the challenges of the last year; those who work in health care, those in the military, those who have volunteered to help in many different ways and also those in education including their teachers and support workers here at Dean Close Preparatory School.
A Celebration of Music We are proud of the musical tradition at Dean Close, with lots of singing from an early age and pupils beginning instruments from 4 years old. During the Trinity term we put together ‘A Celebration of Music’ across the Dean Close Foundation. In this concert, there were solo and ensemble performances from pupils in every school year from Year 1 up to Year 13, including performances from Dean Close St John’s, the Prep-Prep Squirrels, the Prep and Senior Schools. Congratulations to Emily Takada, Annie Schmidt-Martin, Ying-Tai Yilmaz and Marceau Coppard who performed in this concert for the Prep School.
Battle of the Bands The last Friday of the Trinity half term was our annual Battle of the Bands. This fantastic afternoon brought our Year 8 classes to the fore, in a culmination of their class music learning. Every member of the year took to the stage performing covers of great songs, with the cheers and clapping of the audience measured in decibels by “Men of Science” Mr Fraine and Mr West. Pupils in 8A performed Pitbull’s Timber and 8E Amy Winehouse’s Valerie. 8D won the Year 7-8 vote, with their version of Spice Girls Wannabe, but it was 8N who came out on top, winning both the Year 3-6 cheers and the overall highest score, with Bruno Mars The Lazy Song.
Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 5
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:43 Page 6
anguscaton
In Year 2, when he was just six, Angus was diagnosed with a brain tumour and underwent the necessary surgery and invasive treatment to remove the growth and give him the hope both he and his family held on to; his future could be bright again and just the same as every other young person’s. Angus made a gradual but strong recovery and was a happy, busy, positive pupil throughout his five years with us at DCPS. Very sadly, however, the tumour was found to have recurred in 2019, during his final year in DCPS, so Angus and his family began the very difficult process of further hospital visits, chemotherapy and regular scans. The cancer was far more aggressive and difficult to treat; in spite of all this, Angus remained focused on his future and his aspirations, continuing to work as hard as any pupil would towards these goals. Angus lost this battle in June 2020, aged 14. He was extraordinarily brave throughout, and wonderfully dry in his sense of humour until the very end, keeping those around him in good spirits, despite the desperate nature of the situation. His was a childhood peppered with some incredibly challenging moments, but Angus’ straight-talking outlook in the direst of circumstances gave strength to those around him and showed this young man to be an inspiration to others, young and old alike.
Angus Caton March 28, 2006 - June 28, 2020
It is with tremendous sadness – but also with great fondness and pride – that we remember Angus Caton, who passed away just before the end of the Trinity term in 2020. Having joined us when he was in the Pre-Prep, Angus was a Dean Close Prep School boy from Year 3 to the end of Year 8, then moving up to Year 9 at our Senior School during the 2019-2020 academic year.
6 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
As a community, we have been devastated. It has affected us all in many different ways, whether we knew Angus well or not at all. Many of us know Angus’ siblings, Rafe and Rosie, and his parents Adele and Alistair; we continue to keep them all in our thoughts and in our prayers.
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:43 Page 7
anguscaton
Tributes and Memories I remember Angus most as the boy who just wouldn't be swayed. He had some balance difficulties due to his first medical episode, but that didn't stop him climbing Snowdon with his school mates. As we carefully descended, he put the world to rights – particularly with regard to local Cheltenham politics!' I laugh as I remember him challenging a parent for having a dog on the Sports fields – a nervous member of staff not feeling he had the courage to do it. That's what Angus was all about – courage. We miss him. Steve Cahill I loved Angus’ dry sense of humour – he was always ready with a grin and a quip or two, but my favourite memory was taking him for a cream tea on the Year 8 Leavers’ Trip in Devon – and his eyes lighting up when it arrived! What a courageous young man. Clare Salisbury It was a huge privilege to have Angus in Deacon. I really loved our chats in the morning – hearing what he’d been up to, or about his Lego or his fencing club; also, his willingness to correct me on anything that I hadn’t got quite right on the bulletin every day! One of my favourite memories is when he brought in his USA photo album – him sitting on the sofa with me and explaining, in a very matter-of-fact way, all he had been through with his treatment there. We really admired his honesty, his openness, his bravery. Rachel Beecham Above all we will remember his strength of character, his sense of humour, his stoicism and, most importantly, his courage. Ben Price, Dale Housemaster, DCS
Angus’ humour was brilliant. I once teasingly suggested the (awful) nick-name ‘AngeeWangee’ for him, knowing he would object. “Sir!” he retorted, “if you EVER call me that, I shall completely ignore you.” The whole class cheered him. Later that day I spotted him walking towards me along a quiet corridor and so I decided to test out the name. He heard it and continued his walk (right past me, in silence) looking straight ahead and completely blanking me. It was a brilliant slap in the face! Just as he exited the building, his head turned slightly – he was grinning. Bob Shelley My favourite memory of Angus is having our photo taken in the Year 8 Leavers’ ‘Do’ in June 2019 – this is now on my wall and has been ever since. Me and him, together, with silly hats on! Jonathan Harris
Walk for Angus
On Saturday 1st August Angus’ dad, Alistair Caton, and DCPS Director of Sport John Sutherland set out on an epic 210 mile walk from Dean Close School all the way to Pembrokeshire, to a point called Deer Park which looks out over Skomer Island – Angus' favourite view. Alistair and John were supported by their respective families, along with many friends and supporters, who joined in for single or multiple days of walking. This trek, via the Forest of Dean and the Brecon Beacons, took 8 days and raised a total of around £21,000 in aid of the CLIC Sargent charity which provided Angus with so much expert, sensitive care.
Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 7
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:43 Page 8
Ac tiv e
Ac ad em
ics
activeacademics
I’m really proud of my work in
Latin... Freddie - Year 8 A lot of our Latin work this term has been about improving our exam technique. Using the acronym 'Granny Vera Rollerskates Often', we have learnt to identify key elements in our Latin translations to help us sequence the words in the correct order ['Green nominatives, Verbs, Red accusatives, Other cases']. I am particularly happy with this piece of work because I improved my time management when compared with the trial exam during lockdown. In lockdown, on a similar paper, I didn't finish and scored 80% but on this one, I finished and scored 95%. The sequencing of my sentences was more accurate too.
8 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:43 Page 9
Ac tiv e
Ac ad em
ics
activeacademics
I’m really proud of my work in
English... Jess - Year 7 In English we had been reading “Across the Barricades”, a playscript set in Northern Ireland in the 1970s, and focusing on ‘The Troubles’. Two teenagers – Protestant Sadie and Catholic Kevin – fall in love, but have to keep it secret from their parents. I had to write a play review and enjoyed writing about the author’s messages; for example, that we should respect other people’s religious beliefs and that being true to yourself is important.
Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 9
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:43 Page 10
Ac tiv e
Ac ad em
ics
activeacademics
I’m really proud of my work in
Science... Wilf - Year 6 We were studying chromatography in Science. We were given special filter paper and we put dots of different coloured inks onto it. We put the paper in a glass beaker and watched the different pigments in the ink separating out and spreading out as the water spread – have a look at the photograph! We could identify the different colours used to make each of the inks and it was really cool seeing the way they separated, making patterns. This was a great lesson and I was really pleased with my results.
10 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:43 Page 11
Ac tiv e
Ac ad em
ics
activeaacademics
I’m really proud of my work in
French... Sadie - Year 5 In French lessons we have been learning about clothes and colours. I really found it tricky because we had to remember the four forms: masculine, feminine, singular and plural – and match them up accurately. Even though it was hard, I was really pleased because I didn't get the four forms completely mixed up and I actually ended up with a good score!
Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 11
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:43 Page 12
Ac tiv e
Ac ad em
ics
activeaacademics
I’m really proud of my work in
Maths... Eliza - Year 4 I feel as if I have made some good improvements in Maths. One thing that has really helped is learning the ‘short division method’. It’s made a big difference: I used to find division sums really hard, but now I concentrate, take more time and use that method carefully. It makes much more sense and has made me more confident ... and I get more answers correct.
12 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:43 Page 13
Ac tiv e
Ac ad em
ics
activeaacademics
I’m really proud of my work in
History... Archie - Year 3 When we were learning about the Egyptians in History, I loved finding out about mummification! It was gross because they had to get the dead person’s brain out, and the only way to do it was to use a metal hook, push it up through the nose, and hook bits of brain out that way. Yuk! In this picture I am showing you my work on matching Egyptian canopic jars. My teacher said it was very accurate – and neat!
Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 13
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:43 Page 14
creativewriting
Creative Writing Noah – Winner for Year 8
DEAD END Deploying on training exercises with the military is something I love doing and this one was set in a particularly infamous place, which would be known throughout the world forever: Chernobyl, the scene of a massive explosion at a nuclear power plant situated in Ukraine. And here I was now, operating at the site of the catastrophe, investigating wreckage from the tragic explosion thirty-four years ago.
It was at the end of our first week when rumours started. There was talk of the commander being involved in ‘illegal business’. We knew this was lies, but it didn’t stop us from becoming apprehensive about our task in the country. We couldn’t have been more wrong about how grave this situation really was. During the first week, everything seemed to be running smoothly – there was no talk about corrupt leaders. But as we started week two the first indicators that there should be cause for concern became apparent. The thing I noticed at ‘wake-up’ was that my buddy Al’s camp bed was empty. My initial thought was that he had already woken up and gone for breakfast, but when I sat down on his cot I immediately noticed the fact that it was stone cold and hadn’t been slept in for some time. I went through to the mess tent to ask around for him but got that instinctive feeling telling me to stop and go no further; that was the right decision. I edged closer and heard a husky voice through the thin canvas material speaking in such a low tone that I could barely make out what he was saying. There was a pause and I held my breath. I didn’t see the hand coming but intuitively ducked as a massive figure emerged. I attempted to run but my legs were paralysed and I was glued to the spot with
14 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
shock, and was then lifted with immense power up into the air and ‘examined’. The man’s pungent cologne penetrated the air and made me gag. From then on, all that happened was a blur and the next thing I knew I was in a sealed building with the rest of my team, hunched up against the wall. The one thing I did notice though was that we were all here except Al and our commander. “So, guys ... any idea where we are and have any of you seen Al or the boss?” Hundreds of questions were going through my mind but, to be honest, I didn’t really know if I wanted them answered. The other men in the room stared at me with furrowed brows and looked almost sorry for me. “Did nobody tell you? Al’s gone. We tried to save him but it was too late.” My whole body shuddered as I tried to comprehend what I had been told. I understood now – we all did – this wasn’t an exercise: we were part of a cover up and the men holding us simply regarded us as an ‘inconvenience’. They didn’t care whether we lived or died and wouldn’t hesitate to kill us if we became too intrusive. Information was passed to us that if we attempted to escape from this building we would be eliminated on the spot. This did not boost morale. Nonetheless, I did not intend to stay here to await my fate – it was my duty to escape and I planned to do so at midnight. I knew it may be suicide, but I had to give it a go. I commenced the breakout at 23:55, with slight hesitation exiting a window into a corridor only to be instantly blocked by a huge guard. I was quicker than him and sprinted towards freedom; however, to my utter horror, there was a dead end. Frantically, I searched for an exit but could find none. I knew this was the end. As the man approached, I braced myself. There was no point fighting him – I would easily lose. He pinned me down but as he was poised in a position to kill me, I switched off the VR headset and console, and went downstairs for dinner.
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:43 Page 15
creativewriting
Libby – Joint Winner for Year 7
The Mystery of the Pocket Watch A small light flickered and went out. The light would never shine again. A small boy shuddered and went cold. The boy would never breathe again. Matthew’s dull brown eyes stared – unblinking – across the pebbled beach. His lips were blue and his pale face was flecked with sand. The sea was lapping at his feet, gently licking them like a dog. The moon glared down at its shimmering reflection and bounced off Matthew’s tangle of light brown hair, making it appear silver. A beloved gold pocket watch slid out of his hand and was swallowed by the sea. The clock read 1:00am. As events unfolded on the tragic beach, the pocket watch lay unnoticed beneath the gentle waves. Whilst unfamiliar figures discovered the washed-up boy, the watch sunk down into the sand where it was instantly covered and forgotten. Many years came and went, and many shadows passed over the watch but still it remained hidden. Until, one June morning in 2018, nearly 100 years later, a foot landed softly on the golden casing.
Over the next few weeks, Andrew spent all his spare time online and at the local library, trying to find out who the watch had belonged to and how it had ended up in the sea. He found an old newspaper article from mid-1918 describing the devastating impact of the Spanish flu, which had killed over 200,000 people in Britain. His own coastal village had been badly affected, with whole families tragically dying. But that didn’t explain the watch in the sea. The only other article that caught his attention, was that of a young unnamed boy whose body had mysteriously washed up on the very beach where he’d found the watch, back in 1918. The boy’s identity was never discovered. Determined to find out more about the link between his family and the inscription, he ventured up into the loft where he unearthed an old truck full of photos. Whilst many were faded and unclear, a handful proved intriguing. There were a few of his great grandfather, Edward, posing with his mother, father and a younger brother before the First World War.
Andrew Roe was expecting his grandchildren round for lunch and was thinking about what to cook them. As he normally did on his morning beach walk, he’d rolled up his trouser legs and was enjoying a quick paddle when his spaniel Buttons bounded over the waves. He was looking round for a stick to throw for Buttons, when his foot landed on something hard. He peered down and noticed something glinting beneath the waves. Full of curiosity, he reached down and released the watch from its sandy grave. Back at his cottage, Andrew placed his spectacles on the bridge of his nose and scrutinised his new-found treasure. The watch was no longer working, but the casing was still intact and in reasonable condition. On closer inspection, Andrew noticed a small inscription on the inside cover. It read: ‘Time to Roe 06.03.1918’. Andrew, who recognised his own surname, was intrigued. Breaking his concentration, the doorbell rang as his visitors arrived. He carefully wrapped the watch in some tissue and stored it away in his drawer.
And then a few from 1920, showing Edward by himself. But the photo that really interested him was one showing two laughing boys, side by side on a wooden rowing boat. Squinting through his glasses, he could just about see the writing on the boat. It read, ‘Time to Roe’. As he flipped over the photo, suddenly a light went on in his head, as he read: ‘Matthew and Edward Roe, 1918. The boys who loved the sea.’
Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 15
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:44 Page 16
scienceweek
Week Science Experiments and Exhibition
They say that necessity is the mother of invention and the pandemic restrictions led to some innovative ways of working across the school, not least in the Science Department. We followed the intended curriculum but home-schooling and covid guidance forced new, interesting, and, in some cases, improved methods for carrying out learning. Year 6, in particular, made the most of the time at home. Firstly, the ability to work at home, where they had independent access to the internet and to household resources made for a really good environment to create their excellent Science Projects. These individualised pieces of work also gave pupils the opportunity to demonstrate their IT skills with sideshows being produced to run their demonstrations in a hands-free exhibition back at school. Anne-Elise built a miniature wind turbine that, when spun, generated enough electricity to power an LED. The Year 6 topic was 'materials and their properties', so the home environment was taken advantage of. Firstly, pupils were asked to test the strength of different types of paper. They were invited to choose their own methods for testing strength and this gave us the opportunity to reinforce concepts about fair testing as well as identifying independent, dependent and control variables. Pupils then went on to test the strength of ice and then made a composite ice and compared its strength. Carrying out such activities outside of school helps to show that Science is everywhere, not just an activity pursued by people with coats in a lab.
16 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:44 Page 17
week
Learning about household acids and alkalis was already on the curriculum so home experimentation took place for Year 7 too. Pupils were invited get some red cabbage from the supermarket and use it as an indicator, a task we would ordinarily do; red cabbage is an excellent indicator. In Wilton, I saw some of our younger pupils returning to school with polar habitats they made. And Year 8 pupils were given a digital research task to find out more about some of the less well known objects in our solar system, e.g. Jupiter's moons. Back at school, guidance forced further innovation and adaptation. To demonstrate the law of the conservation of mass, this year we used baking soda and vinegar. We measured the mass of these two items and combined them. When they reacted and the total mass was lower than the sum of the two separate items we were able to calculate how much gas was produced. In the final term, a number of year groups had a chromebook to use. Used in parts of lessons, pupils could access interactive activities from a package we subscribe to. Many also looked at content from the Cheltenham Science Festival.
Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 17
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:45 Page 18
music
Music Two months later we were back in school, with the opportunity to enjoy our live individual finals. Mr Dominic Franks, the new Director of Music at the Senior School, was kind enough to come and adjudicate, as we enjoyed superb performances throughout the day. It wouldn’t have been 2021 without a twist though and this year we live streamed the competition as “concerts” for each section (piano, strings, woodwind, brass, singing and popular music) for parents to enjoy at home, giving us a larger audience than ever for our House Music Competition.
House Music In the year like no other, it was time for the House Music Competition like no other, held in two sections. We started in January with “House Music At Home”, with performers video recording performances and sending them in. Whilst this may sound relatively “normal” in Covid times, it was anything but normal as pupils across all year groups embraced the opportunity to “have-a-go”. Of course we enjoyed performances from everyone who learns an instrument or sings, and even several from people who have not picked up their instrument for a while. Beyond this, performances included the following: pots and pans orchestras; karaoke performances; an amazing video project that lined up the sounds of things being dropped; uses of garageband, drumbit and other online music technology; a
lovely song on the ukulele performed to an audience of watching teddies. Perhaps the most fun was had where other family members joined in, either as accompanists or cheerleaders, or even the four-legged kind. We had a dancing dog, a hamster playing the spoon, singing cats and a wonderful digital performance of growling and barking dogs. It was a festival of musical entertainment in all its glory. In a ‘first’ for the competition, each class had the chance to vote for their favourite performance, choosing their 2 “Class Champions”, who each won a medal. From all of these performances our House winners emerged, with Deacon winning for the Juniors and Oaksey claiming both the Senior and overall titles.
Congratulations must be given to all of the performers selected for the finals and our medallists, but special congratulations to our cup winners, Eddie Savage (brass), Hugo BrooksHughes (strings), Caitlin Allen and Isaac Stott (singing) and Charlotte Newland (popular music). Emily Takada from Year 3 won the Senior piano class, but also shared the best overall Junior with Annie Schmidt-Martin, who performed very well in several classes throughout the day. Marceau Coppard was announced as the Best Overall Musician and his outstanding saxophone performance of Tabasco, by James Rae not only won the woodwind cup, but the Best Overall Performance. 18 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:45 Page 19
music
VIRTUAL CONCERTS AND MAGICAL MUSIC WEEK Bubble-tastic and Virtually Brilliant – Christmas must happen! Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without lots of things: turkey, over-indulging, a large bearded red-coated man popping down your chimney – but could you imagine a Christmas without music? Carols, Jingle Bells, Mariah Carey – it is unthinkable, and yet, as we returned to school in September, music was at the forefront of Covid restrictions. Congregational singing was banned, with only smaller ‘bubble’ choirs allowed, and our ensembles were now all in bubbles, with unusual combinations of instruments and performers having to get used to playing and singing with enormous gaps between them. And wow – how hard did each group work! We felt honoured that, as a school, we could rehearse and perform when other groups couldn’t, and so we certainly made the most of it. Our candlelit carol services, for once, were in the dark and absolutely beautiful, late on a Wednesday afternoon. A choir sang from each end of the Chapel, both their own carols and traditional carols on behalf of the congregation. The Year 8s soaring descant to Hark the Herald Angels Sing allowed us to all feel part of something “normal”. The Year 5 & 6 choir led the “junior” service, especially enjoying John Gardner’s The Holly and the Ivy. The Year 3 & 4 choir had prepared beautifully and rehearsed in the Chapel, only for the Year 4s to be hit - that very morning - by the need to isolate, missing their chance to sing. The Year 3s did an amazing job managing A Starry Night on their own, but it continued to show us all how lucky we were to be singing. As we could not invite parents in, the services were recorded and then combined into one to allow parents to enjoy performances
from all year groups and participate in our worship. Our Christmas Cracker is one of the favourite concerts of the school year, but distancing was never going to allow us to manage this one. This has never stopped the music department though, and so, over Christmas snacks and drinks in tutor rooms, the whole school settled down to watch a pre-recorded Christmas Cracker. Presented by Isabella Phillips, the show started with an amazing “Jingle Bells”, with each ‘bubble’ ensemble recording a verse or chorus and it all being stitched together brilliantly by Mr Schmidt-Martin to become one piece, with all of the bubbles playing together at the end. This was a recording feat as every ensemble had to play at the same speed, when recording at different times. Lots of fun was had. Ensemble performances included the Year 5s and 6s with O little town of Bethlehem, the Year 3s and 4s with a Christmas Rumba, and the Year 7s with Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus. The Year 8 choir walked in a Winter Wonderland and the Year 5 & 6 string quartet also performed beautifully. A rousing end was brought by the Year 8 ensemble, playing our now traditional 12 days of Christmas, but this year, the tutor groups were leaping up and down holding cards up to show which of the day they were as singing was not allowed (a little sneaky humming may have taken place!) A fabulous fun concert, rounded off with a slightly more dubious staff item as they “rocked out” to Well I Wish it Could be Xmas.
DCPS wouldn’t be the same without our range of concerts and performance opportunities. In the Michaelmas term we were able to enjoy a week of performance platforms, with one from each ‘bubble’. Most heartening was the huge numbers of friends from each ‘bubble’ that came to be an audience as the school recognised the importance of supporting their friends, when parents were unable to come and support. In the Trinity term, our ensembles held their concerts, demonstrating the music they had learned throughout the year, streamed live to parents at home. The Year 5 & 6 flute group played a fantastic James Bond number and the Year 3 & 4 ensemble wowed with their very fast William Tell Overture. The Year 8 ensemble played The Incredibles and a Disney Film Favourites medley. The choirs all had great fun performing some secular music. The youngest choir sang in multiple parts on their Rollerghoster, the Year 5 & 6 took us to a Rock and Roll Party, the Year 7s enjoyed their Toy Story number and Year 8s wowed us with their Caribbean style actions / dance routine in Yellow Bird. Utilising the stage and the seating area of the hall, these were unique concerts which will live long in the memory and were a testament to all of the hard work throughout the year. To round off the Summer, music went “on location” as Magical Music Week was born at DCPS. Providing a performance tent outside Hardy House, pupils brought their solos to perform in the sunshine, with a constantly changing audience. At the same time, pupils could view instruments that they might like to learn in the future. This informal performance was wonderful, with so many giving their first performances in public and our music scholars encouraging others to play, by taking a lead. By the end, there were queues of performers over the 3 days and we hope this will become a new DCPS tradition.
We are incredibly proud of our hardworking ‘bubble’ groups throughout the year as well as at Christmas, as they kept music going in the most difficult of circumstances. Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 19
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:45 Page 20
music
Battle of the Bands Back in school in March allowed preparations to take place for the Year 8 Battle of the Bands. Held on the last Friday before half term, this fantastic afternoon brought our Year 8 classes to the fore, in a culmination of their class music learning. Every member of the year took the stage, performing covers of great songs, with the cheers and clapping of the audience measured in decibels by “Men of Science” Mr Fraine and Mr West.
s r e n n i W
20 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
With amazing costumes and flamboyant performances the Year 8s took to the stage, giving two “Bubble Battles”. With great lead singers, expert and novice drummers, whistlers, recorder players, fantastic lead keyboard players from our music scholars, supported by their friends on other keyboards, it was a wonderful example of teamwork and performance. 8A played and sang Pitbull’s Timber and 8E Amy Winehouse’s Valerie. 8D won the Year 7-8 ‘bubble’ vote, with their version of Spice Girls’ Wannabe, but it was 8N who came out on top, lifting the trophy by winning both the Year 3-6 cheers and the overall highest score, with Bruno Mars’ The Lazy Song.
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:45 Page 21
music
Class Winners Class
Medal
Name
Form
Instrumental Class A
Silver
Uma Wang (ukulele) Anne-Elise Lacroix (cello) Imogen Mawer (trumpet)
5PW 6Y 6Y
Simren Kuner Annie Schmidt-Martin
5LB 4KF
Piano Class 1
Piano Class 2
Gold Silver Gold Silver
Matilda Orritt James Lee
5LB 7A
Gold Silver
Ying-Tai Yilmaz Hugo Brooks-Hughes Isaac Hanfrey
5LB 7A 8D
Gold Silver
Emily Takada Lex Recine Marceau Coppard
3AE 7E 8E
Gold Silver
Sophie Harding (violin) George Latimer (violin)
7D
Strings Class 3
Gold Silver
Annie Schmidt-Martin (cello) Samuel Bradley (violin) Emily Takada (violin)
4KF 5PW 3AE
Strings Class 4
Gold
Hugo Brooks-Hughes (cello)
7A
Woodwind Class 2
Silver
Zara Ristic (flute) Matilda Pitt (flute)
6Y 6Y
Woodwind Class 3
Gold Silver
Marceau Coppard (Alto Sax) Imogen Bowen (flute) Jonathan Barron (recorder)
8E 8A 7D
Brass Class 3
Gold Silver
Eddie Savage (trumpet) Lex Recine (Euphonium)
6D 7N
Singing Junior Forms
Silver
Annie Schmidt-Martin Beth Moody
4KF 4GW
Raffi Bowen Alba Carames-Lane Georgia Lely
6D 6Y 6Y
Piano Class 3
Piano Class 4
Strings Class 2
Singing Year 6
Gold Silver
6D
Singing Year 7
Silver
Morgan Chandler Lex Recine
7D 7E
Singing Year 8
Gold
Caitlin Allen Isaac Stott
8N 8A
Thomas Naylor Eddie Collingwood
4JF 4KF
Drumkit Class 1
Silver
Drumkit Class 2
Silver
George Collingwood
8N
Pop Vocals
Gold Silver
Charlotte Newland Alice Montgomery Jessica Hindley
7N 8D 8E
CUP WINNERS CUP
Name
Ellis Cup for Piano
Emily Takada
Ellis Cup for Strings
Hugo Brooks-Hughes
Dimmer Cup for Woodwind
Marceau Coppard
Ellis Cup for Brass
Eddie Savage
Alcock Cup for Singing
Caitlin Allen & Isaac Stott
Brian Jones Cup for Popular Music
Charlotte Newland
Junior Music Cup
Emily Takada & Annie Schmidt-Martin
Best Overall Performance
Marceau Coppard
Best Overall Musician
Marceau Coppard
Junior House Winners
Deacon
Senior House Winners
Oaksey
Overall House Winners
Oaksey
Details of those achieving Higher grades in music exams Raffi Bowen
Grade 5 Cello
Hugo Brooks-Hughes
Grade 7 Cello with Distinction
Marceau Coppard
Grade 8 Jazz Saxophone with Distinction
Lucy Godfrey
Grade 5 Music Theory with Merit
Isaac Hanfrey
Grade 5 Violin with Distinction and Grade 5 Music Theory
Rufus Jordan
Grade 5 Singing with Merit
Freddie Martin
Grade 5 Music Theory with Distinction
Isabella Phillips
Grade 5 Music Theory with Distinction, Grade 5 Singing with Merit, Grade 5 Cello,
Lex Recine
Grade 5 Music Theory
Eddie Savage
Grade 5 Trumpet with Distinction and Grade 5 Music Theory with Distinction
Isaac Stott
Grade 5 Music Theory with Merit
Emily Takada
Grade 5 Violin with Distinction and Grade 5 Piano with Distinction
Alice Wilson
Grade 5 Cello with Merit
Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 21
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:45 Page 22
scholacantorum
Schola Cantorum
During the year, several members of the choir were admitted as full choristers; congratulations are due to Theo Chambers, Owen Hynes, Eddie Savage, Sammy Bradley and Hari Sanghera
22 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
his year has certainly been an unusual one for the choristers of Schola Cantorum. The year began for us in late August when we recommenced rehearsals in school prior to the start of term, rehearsing in two groups in the Centenary Hall. It took some time for the choristers to get used to singing with social distancing measures in place, but when term got underway, our full schedule of morning rehearsals began, using the lounge at Dean Close House as a temporary rehearsal space. It was also good to be able to welcome Eddie Savage as a new member of the choir. Due to government restrictions and staffing pressures, the Abbey was not able to host us for Evensong, but the boys were able to get going with two services each week in the school chapel. This pattern continued right through the Michaelmas term, and due to us not being able to have the lay clerks (adult singers) with us, the choristers had to learn and prepare a huge amount of new repertoire. However, the whole choir was able to come together and contribute to a pre-recorded carol service in the Abbey, and also sang a live carol service to a limited capacity congregation at the end of the Michaelmas term.
T
The Lent term was rather different; due to the national lockdown, the choir returned to rehearsals online in small groups of four or five choristers, and this took place before and after school each day. We were at least able to keep our voices in some sort of condition through this difficult period, but it was a relief to reunite the choir in March when everyone returned to school and we were able to sing a few services in the chapel before the end of the term. It was at this point when Mr Harry Williams joined the team as a part time choral scholar for the remainder of the year. Over the Easter break, year 8 chorister Isaac Stott recorded the sound and video for a charity single; a rather different sort of project than we are accustomed to taking part in. Isaac teamed up with the Choir of Royal Holloway, University of London and composer Thomas Hewitt-Jones in a new song called We can make it, and this has been released on the Signum Classics label. The song seeks to highlight the mental health of young people as we come out of the pandemic, and funds are being raised for Save the Children. The Trinity term was altogether more fruitful in every respect. We returned to singing in the Abbey
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:45 Page 23
scholacantorum
twice each week from Easter, also singing some services on Mondays in the school chapel. From half term, the choir nearly returned to its full schedule, singing three services each week in the Abbey once more. To finish the year, we were able to organise and enjoy a rather different musical project. The Gesualdo Six, a professional choir of six young adult male singers collaborated with us at the end of summer term, firstly in a workshop (with three of their members) and shortly after the end of term, we met at Tewkesbury to video record three short videos of renaissance church music. The recordings will be assembled over the coming months and will be shared widely. During the year, several members of the choir were admitted as full choristers; congratulations are due to Theo Chambers, Owen Hynes, Eddie Savage, Sammy Bradley and Hari Sanghera, who have completed their time as probationers. We were also able to award the Amherst medal to four senior choristers; Isaac Hanfrey, Freddie Martin and Isaac Stott gained their medals in March (this having being delayed due to the postChristmas lockdown) and Hugo Brooks-Hughes was awarded his medal at the end of the summer term, having met the necessary criteria. In July, we said farewell and thank you to three long serving choristers: Isaac Hanfrey, Freddie Martin and Isaac Stott. They have given terrific service to the choir and have been amazingly stoic in this most challenging of years, setting a terrific example to their younger peers. Mr Roebuck has also been a most flexible and understanding organ scholar, and we wish him well for the next stage of his musical journey. Finally, I must thank Mrs Lyons for all of her support and assistance in this year in her role as chorister tutor, especially with all the COVIDrelated plans that we have had to make in order to facilitate the choir to function. Mr Bell Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 23
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:46 Page 24
drama
BUGSY MALONE I had never before thought of Bugsy as a stylish show - but, my goodness, the DCPS conception was exactly that: the big 20s Speakeasy tableau at the start, the sepia tones of black/white/grey/silver (and occasional gold and poiple) were a delight. I loved the montage stills, which added such depth and context. And the bands at DCPS just get better and better. The kids, I thought, were super and the audience were clearly loving it. Bugsy was handsome and cheeky - a super lead. It also took me some time to recognise Blousie - she has grown up admirably under the DCPS Drama tutelage. And what a lovely voice. I especially enjoyed Fizzy and the almost numinous dance sequence - it is such a gorgeous song, and the dance was entrancing. I adored Knuckles - spot on. I could go on and on but there are too many lovely details to cover. Thank you all for lifting my spirits, and so many others' too during this challenging time of lockdowns. The kids were clearly having a ball. I felt as though I had slept with a coat hanger in my mouth - I was smiling incessantly. My congrats to the cast and crew. DCPS are lucky to have you all. Lloyd Allington Director of Drama DCS
24 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:46 Page 25
drama
Thank you for lifting my spirits, and so many others' too during this challenging time of lockdowns
Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 25
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:46 Page 26
drama
y t i v i t Na
Let’s do a
…The children at school were bored. It was exams, exams, exams, but then it was almost December, and one of them had a great idea to take control with a pupil led nativity play. But, there were a couple of bullies who were intent on wrecking their plans. Will we see the Nativity?...’ All was revealed following the endeavours of our Junior Forms’ pupils during this festive production.
26 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
Costumes, props, music, a playscript and plenty of enthusiasm combine, following a week of rehearsals. Excitement was building as 3 days of filming began. This was the first time we have worked on a production for film, and pupils and staff alike learnt new skills along the way. It was a very different experience from our usual live stage performances and one which we hope will provide a wonderful record for family and friends during the time of lockdowns and restrictions. Although different in so many ways, the energy and commitment of our pupils was not diminished. The performance was a fun filled festival of Christmas joy! And one that can still be watched over and over for many Christmases to come!
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:47 Page 27
drama
This was the first time we have worked on a production for film, and pupils and staff alike learnt new skills along the way
Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 27
Young Decanian 2021 (new) 24-31.qxp_Layout 1
13/12/2021
16:18
Page 24
art
Art... Alfie Mills
Annabel Lindsay
Max Rai
Vetali Moodley 28 ~ Y o u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
Asher Clingenpeel
Young Decanian 2021 (new) 24-31.qxp_Layout 1
13/12/2021
16:18
Page 25
art
Isabelle Barraclough
Aryash Rai
Anne-Elise Lacroix Y o u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 29
Young Decanian 2021 (new) 24-31.qxp_Layout 1
13/12/2021
art
Ed Willsher
Lily Parkes
30 ~ Y o u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
Aryash Rai t
16:18
Page 26
Young Decanian 2021 (new) 24-31.qxp_Layout 1
13/12/2021
16:18
Page 27
art
Rafe Caton
Will Bunner
Tallulah Lock
Molly Wei Y o u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 31
Young Decanian 2021 (new) 24-31.qxp_Layout 1
13/12/2021
16:18
Page 28
designtechnology
Design Technology Year 3: Mobiles
Alex Ham Romero
Anja Goodwin
Emily Takada
Hari Holmes
Isabelle Barraclough
Jack Palmer Thomas
Year 4: Wall Hangings
Anaelle Munch
Daisy Ridsdale
Kiri Kim 32 ~ Y o u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
Isla Jeffrey
William Wright
Young Decanian 2021 (new) 24-31.qxp_Layout 1
13/12/2021
16:18
Page 29
designtechnology
Year 5: Pencil Box
Year 6: Mobile Phone Holder
Y o u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 33
Young Decanian 2021 (new) 24-31.qxp_Layout 1
13/12/2021
16:18
Page 30
designtechnology
Year 7: 3D Monsters / Animals
Year 8: Bowls
34 ~ Y o u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:48 Page 35
eal
EAL always sad to say goodbye to our leaving Year 8 pupils, but nice to know that we will still catch a glimpse of them at DCS when on our way to Chapel or Games. Everyone was pleased to welcome Mrs Cox, our new EAL teacher, and we look forward to working with her in the years to come.
Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 35
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:48 Page 36
forestschool
Forest School It’s fair to say that while most other curriculum areas managed amazingly well to replicate their lessons online, running Forest School through Google Classrooms just wasn’t the same! To help everyone feel like they were entering into the spirit of it, though, scarves and hats were worn and mugs of hot chocolate encouraged. This year has certainly had its challenges, but at least Years 3 - 6 were able to enjoy the Trinity term back on site and see the cow parsley shoot up and spot the lesser spotted woodpeckers return to inspect the dead tree used last year. For Year 6, it was their final year of Forest School at DCPS and they were asked to reflect on this, bringing to mind the special moments and those things they really enjoyed. The list of responses always includes having hot chocolate down there, but interestingly, it’s the regularity of the sessions that appeal too. Whatever the weather, every week groups wandered across the field, leaning into the wind, catching snowflakes on their tongues or simply jumping on one another’s shadows as they went. Fond memories also include learning about the plant life in Forest school and the ecology tied up with the surrounding environment - the difference between Spanish and native bluebells, the truth about stinging nettles or the usefulness of wild garlic were all discussed this spring. Having the opportunity to watch the wildlife living on site is always a special treat and the resident fox, with her cubs, were regularly spotted. Tree climbing, litter
36 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
picking, being quiet and mindful and the annual ‘Stay Late’ events all feature as special memories. But perhaps what Forest School does best is to offer pupils a space to relax in, to connect with nature and learn how to reflect on themselves and the day that they are passing through. May these memories and many more be the legacy of Year 6’s time in Forest School, and any other leavers from this year.
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:49 Page 37
forestschool
This year has certainly had its challenges, but at least Years 3 - 6 were able to enjoy the Trinity term back on site Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 37
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:50 Page 38
chaplaincy he Chaplaincy is perhaps unlike any other school ‘department’. Whereas the other departments here excel at delivering their service or teaching their material or mentoring those in their care, we in Chaplaincy aim to work alongside in and through all of our colleagues rather than to do something on the side and totally different from them.
T
The older I get as a follower of Jesus the more precious I find the doctrine of Jesus’ incarnation; that he came to earth as one of us – fully human and fully God – to be with us. Perhaps this is the ‘pandemic me’ speaking as the past fifteen months of not hugging, standing back, closing our doors and masking up shine a light on just how powerful a thing it is to ‘be with’, and conversely how painful it is to ‘be away from.’ We see it day in day out around school here. Yes, the school come onto Chaplaincy territory (as it were) when they come to the services we lay on, and our voluntary groups, but the most powerful relational catalyst is always when we set foot on their territory.
Chaplaincy
38 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
Joining them on their coach for an away match, or for their sung evensong at the Abbey, or putting them to bed in their boarding house, or coming to view their play is a way of ‘being with’ which says powerfully and uniquely ‘I know you’ and ‘I am for you’. It’s often been said that the very best toys are those which will engage the parent (and perhaps particularly the father). Why? Because – forget the toys – the one thing which every child wants (and needs) more than anything else is time with their mum and dad. Surely that is the secret of Lego! Again and again in my experience here, it is not so much the times face to face which fills the memories, but shoulder to shoulder as I do something with a colleague or pupil. These are moments where we are more often than not surprised by joy and connection and togetherness. Indeed I wonder whether this goes some way to explaining some of the relational difficulty of the online portion of this year. It is hard to do ‘shoulder to shoulder’ on Zoom.
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:50 Page 39
chaplaincy
I can’t quite believe that the time has come to say our farewells to Miss Parkinson As I write now, we’ve just enjoyed perhaps our most poignant moment of togetherness, at our outdoor leavers’ service. It was the first and last time we had the whole school gathered in one place all year, and it was the only place we have sung a congregational hymn. As our leavers melted away down the aisle with strains of Rutter in the air, clutching their newly received bibles, it was a reminder that our community here is necessarily transient and that one generation must give way to another. As with pupils, so with staff. I can’t quite believe that the time has come to say our farewells to Miss Parkinson who is heading off to Cambridge to learn how to teach (as if they will have anything to teach her!). She has truly been an astonishingly giving, and capable colleague whom we will miss greatly. Another year of Chaplaincy, another year of learning from Christ alongside others.
Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 39
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:50 Page 40
charity
Charity to remember others less fortunate than ourselves during this past academic year, as the impact of the global pandemic continues to be felt. There has been a clear and concerted effort by every year group to play their part, and locally based charities as well as those further afield have benefitted as a result. In the run-up to Christmas, each tutor group and class in Junior Forms planned, collected and put together a fabulous hamper stuffed with the essentials and some extra luxurious treats any family would appreciate; the recipients were those who faced a festive season without the usual trimmings and were thrilled to receive our beautifully crafted Christmas food hampers. With the help of some willing parents, over 60 hampers were distributed by Fresh Hope, the local charity committed to running the School House Cafe in St Paul’s, amongst other projects.
40 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:50 Page 41
It was sad not to be able to invite elderly residents from local care homes to join us in school for the traditional Christmas songs and entertainment, but as Easter approached, pupils were keen to remind these valued members of our community that they were in our thoughts; an appeal for every pupil to donate an Easter egg was made with an incredible response! To accompany every one of the 300+ eggs distributed to the local care homes we partner, a handwritten postcard was added from a pupil - the response was heartwarming. After all, everyone loves to receive an Easter egg! Keeping our charity efforts simple was the key to their effectiveness this year, as one final appeal was to prove. A mufti day and the sale of ice creams during break times in June were a perfect combination, which both staff and pupils enjoyed. These two events raised in excess of £800 which will be donated to ‘Good Shepherd Homes’, based in India where street kids are welcomed into a safe environment, fed, taught and loved by a dedicated team. This charity was brought to our attention by a family who joined us at DCPS for two terms whilst unable to return to their home in India. They were later able to do so when travel restrictions eased slightly, over Christmas.
Pastoral
pastoral
Being able to flourish in the face of adversity is a life skill we all would hope to develop over time and there certainly were many challenges to deal with this year. It’s not the same kind of skill as being able to thread a needle or knowing how to log on to a computer - these are skills that can be explained through easy-to-follow steps, with the result being clear to see. A journey is usually followed before we sense we are flourishing, and in order to flourish during the year that we’ve just had, pupils needed to feel safe, supported and aware of who to turn to when extra help may be needed. Adapting our pastoral care at DCPS to truly respond to the situations pupils had to deal with was important - the learning environment was different, changes to the timetable were required, new pupils arrived to an online set-up before even meeting their peers face-to-face and the impact of the global pandemic continued to place additional pressures on families on a personal level. There was a lot of ‘change’ to accomodate on the road to being able to flourish.
Demonstrating our values to others has been an important part of this year and our school community has shown that, regardless of the pandemic, we still want to reach out to show love and contribute in whatever way we can to support those who show great courage to survive.
Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 41
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:51 Page 42
pastoral
Tutor groups, junior forms and our house system remained at the heart of our pastoral framework, whether operating remotely or in person this year. With a strong emphasis continuing to be placed on developing positive relationships between staff and pupils, it was wonderful to see examples of pupils flourishing in these groups as the weeks went by. An example of this was watching how a Year 7 pupil, who was initially reluctant to join in with discussions, soon learnt to trust those in his tutor group, consequently developing an appetite to share his opinions and stir debate amongst others. Younger pupils learnt to flourish as well - especially in their friendships during this lockdown-blighted year. Once back in school after Lockdown 3, they were keen to see friends for play time, learning to develop healthy levels of tolerance and patience as the new playground equipment could be enjoyed together. Helping one another to flourish and celebrating those special moments together reminded us all of the importance of school being the happy and safe place we know it to be.
...it was wonderful to see examples of pupils flourishing in these groups as the weeks went by!
42 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:51 Page 43
formpics
Form Pics
3AE
3SR
4KF
4GW
4JF
5LB Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 43
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:51 Page 44
formpics
Form Pics
44 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
5PW
6D
6O
6Y
7A
7D
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:52 Page 45
formpics
Form Pics
7E
7N
8A
8D
8E
8N Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 45
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:52 Page 46
boarding
Boarding Houses This has been a year like no other in Caldecote!
It was with great joy that we were able to welcome a full house of 30+ boys, back in September 2020, following their enforced CV19-absence in the previous term. Indeed, whilst there were still plenty of Covid-19 restrictions and regulations in place, term was able to start pretty normally for our household, enjoying our now usual team-building trip to Mojo Active. Although we had to be a bit inventive with our weekend activities (because we couldn’t mix with the other two Houses), all looked cosy at first. Then Lockdown#2 hit … … and 32 boys became just 6! This is where the fun really started as we soon had a positive case in the house which sent us into isolation for ten days. Caldecote was captive! On the surface this might have seemed like a nightmare but it was actually quite fun: it was so good to see the friendship, resilience and good humour of boys and staff alike shine through, in abundance. We all became cleaners, food servers and even chefs on occasions - oh, and, of course, expert LFT testers! Once free, we really did feel like the lucky ones. With most of the whole World at a standstill, we were able to take advantage of Mr Beecham’s ‘Outdoor Ed.’ expertise and spent our evenings away from Chromebooks - climbing, mountain biking, and even kayaking in the pool. It was great fun and the ‘Caldecote 6’ were all rather sad about it ending and the ‘masses’ returning!
46 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
However, return they did and we were soon back to as close to normality as we were allowed in the Trinity term. Not even the cancellation of our term-ending Drayton Manor trip held us back as the year finished with a flourish - a House Cricket triumph and plenty of recognition at Speech Day, as well. It has been a really bonkers past 4 terms but we are so proud of how our awesome boarders have adapted and got through it. The Caldecote Quarenteens are surely now prepared for anything!
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:53 Page 47
boarding
Fortfield The Fortfield family continued to flourish and have heaps of fun, despite the extraordinary circumstances of this year. We welcomed 9 new girls into the House in September and they all very quickly became ‘part of the furniture’. Despite restrictions, we were able to start the year off with a bang as we headed to Mojo Active on the first Sunday of the year with the whole Boarding community. The girls loved shooting each other with (padded) arrows, zorbing and, of course, the obstacle course! It was also a real treat to see the reinstatement of House events this year and I was immensely proud of the whole group of girls for giving it their all in House Cross Country – not always a favourite event for some of them – but every single one of them finished the race with a smile which was so lovely to see, and the Boarders won the Seniors race for the first time since I can remember! House hockey was not quite as successful as the cross country but was, once again, a testament to team spirit and the Fortfield ‘have a go and have fun’ attitude. We enjoyed lots of other weekend events but highlights were definitely the Boarders’ Great British Bake Off (and not just because we all got to sample the creations!), the Murder Mystery night where the girls worked in teams to uncover the crimes of Professor Plum (a.k.a Mr Cooper!) and our Christmas Movie and Craft Event just before the end of term.
Some of the homemade peppermints may even have made it back to the parents for whom they were intended! The Lent term was a strange one with some girls back in House but most tuning in from afar. The girls were fab at taking all these circumstances in their stride but it was lovely to have almost all of them back in House for the final 3 weeks, face-toface; we even managed to enjoy some House netball in year group teams. The Trinity term saw inflatable laser tag, our first ever Taskmaster weekend, inflatable obstacle courses and ‘Last one standing’, a cinema trip, a BBQ, the return of the giant Fortfield pool, It’s a Knockout and the arrival of a Nintendo Switch in Fortfield. We had our most successful term in House events ever, with wins in Athletics, Tennis and Cricket. The girls all worked their socks off in every aspect of school life and it was so lovely to see a proud bunch of Year 8s as they received their exam results, and a delight to see so many of them perform in Bugsy. But the highlight of the year, for me, was how the girls came together in the face of disappointment when they found out they had to isolate and miss Speech Day. They spent the morning singing together, playing games, then tuning in to Speech Day where they cheered and applauded their peers, enjoyed a few edible treats but, most importantly, demonstrated a superb level of resilience that summed up a wonderful Fortfield family this year. This was the first time we had ‘House Captains’ - Jess Hindley, Meghan Williams, Ellie Penhallow. Isabella Beaumont-Cleworth and Eloise Dransfieldl were all superb in the role, setting a great example around the House, building relationships across the years and encouraging lots of fun! Our House staff were phenomenal through a tricky year and we want to say a huge thank you to Miss Maurency, Miss Carmody and Miss Spiers for all they gave to the House, and an extra special thank you to Matron Jane for her 4 fab years in Fortfield. Here’s to another year of fun to come! Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 47
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:53 Page 48
boarding
Wilton 2021 was not a normal year in any household, but imagine living in one made up of 21 children and four adults! Sometimes this seemed a challenge – preparing to welcome back children from all over the country and still making it feel like a home whilst ensuring everything was as COVID safe as possible. But most of the time we were acutely aware just how lucky we were compared to the rest of the UK. While others around the country might go days without seeing anybody we were surrounded by friends and our ‘Wilton Family’. We may have had to make adaptations, such as clicking or humming ‘Happy Birthday’, but how many other children were able to have a party this year with pass-theparcel, dancing and silly party games? Our usual weekly Wilton trips had to be put on hold, but we still managed to have a lot of fun on-site. Being in school with all the facilities on-hand meant that we were able to do a lot of activities that were not possible for others: swimming, bouldering and climbing, kayaking, hiring bouncy castles and firing clay Christmas decorations, building dens, wading in the brook, crafting and playing games on the lawn and field … and so on! With changes to take ‘bubbles’ into account, we also still managed to hold many of our whole boarding community events, such as the Cluedo Murder Mystery evening and Boarders’ Olympics. When things started to ease in the Trinity Term, we made the most of the school minibuses and took lots of little trips out to local hills and woodlands. We ended the year with a gloriously sunny Wilton camp out on the lawn, with s’mores and singing. The main thing that I have learned this year is that children are amazingly adaptable. We might well have expected a lot of unsettled and anxious children, but the Wonderful Wiltonites showed me that good friendships and empathy can override the greatest challenges so that my memories of this year are full of grinning children and laughter.
48 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:53 Page 49
dayhouses
Day Houses
Deacon
Hampers replaced the charity Fair last year and the tutor groups and forms all made generous contributions and some beautiful Hampers.
of House Captains, and all those who had taken on this role had had the opportunity to contribute more to their house community - they had helped with organising events and their support was very much appreciated. End of each half term Pizza was always welcome!
Lockdown in January was a real blow, but the sense of identity of house stayed strong with online year group ‘meets’ and again it was a joy to be back in school in March and to see everyone ‘in person’.
As always Deacon’s amazing staff team did a fantastic job of looking after the children and I am hugely grateful to all of the junior forms teachers and tutors who worked so hard to keep connected over this challenging year.
Reflecting back on last year and the restrictions that were placed on us due to COVID the overwhelming response when I asked children what they were missing was being in the house - it really did bring home the sense of belonging and identity that being a member of our Deacon family gives to the children. Not seeing them all every morning and watching them interacting with different year groups and playing together was such a loss from our school routine and the value of this aspect of our community really cannot be underestimated.
their part in our house effort to do our best and as a house parent it is always a high point of the school year.
This made those moments of ‘togetherness’ all the more valuable - house cross country really stands out - the sight of the children in their yellow Deacon shirts (albeit in year group bubbles) was as always a moment of real connection and we loved celebrating the achievements of all - from the speedy winners to those who struggled round the course and found it a challenge - each one of the children played
Summer term provided chances to reconnect in and we managed year group house times, sports days, and Year 8 had a reimagined leavers trip. It was always lovely to have the chance to catch up with the children in the house times, to see them playing and to hear how they were all getting on. Deacon Dragons were handed to our leavers and we sent the Year 8s off to the Senior School and others to new schools. Last year was the first year
Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 49
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:53 Page 50
dayhouses
Oaksey am sure that within these covers there will be so much that has been written about the impact that Covid 19 has had on us all so please forgive me if this is where I start.
I
One of the strengths of the DCPS Day House system is that children of all prep school ages are mixing together; learning from each other; looking out for each other; sharing highs and lows; making huge strides forward; making mistakes and developing a team spirit and House bond. Much of this has been stripped away this year and I fear for the negative impact that this has had on the Oaksey children. However, I have seen enough of our amazing young people this year to know that they are a strong, resilient and determined group of people and I have that hope, no certainty, that they will bounce back and really flourish once again. I regularly try to review what it is that I would like the Oaksey children to leave with once their time at DCPS has come to an end. I do not mean a cuddly toy, bag of goodies or key fob. What I am talking about are the characteristics and values which will equip them to grow as key members of society. I was privileged to be at the leavers service for the Year 8 Choristers at the end of term. As I sat there, absorbed by the extraordinary sound that these children make and marvelling at just how many 50 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
of the choristers are Oaksey members (they certainly do not get their singing voices from me!), I was struck by the qualities that are needed as a chorister. So many of these attributes will be so key for their futures e.g. commitment, natural and nurtured talent, confidence, discipline, team-work and the excitement of finding their niche. I would love Oaksey pupils to grow each of these qualities - and more - so that they continue to shine bright. This has been another highly ‘successful’ year for Oaksey and I burst with pride when ‘we’ win a House competition, one of the children is recognised in Head Master’s Assembly or when Oaksey can boast of a Head and Deputy Head of School. However, I am equally proud when I hear that an Oaksey team has shown great sportswomanship; an individual has made significant progress in a particular area or an Oaksey member has gone out of their way to give to others. These are perhaps even greater ‘successes’. A couple of votes of thanks to end with. I could not do my job as Houseparent without the tireless work, enthusiasm and inventiveness of the team of Tutors and House staff. I owe them so much! Finally, a huge thank you to every single Oaksey-ite for all that you are, all that you are and all that you are becoming. I cannot wait until we can all be together again!
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:53 Page 51
dayhouses
3. The School Christmas had a different focus this Year as Art Teachers and Yeaman Tutors, Mrs McWilliam-Clune and Mrs Sutherland, encouraged DCPS staff and pupils to decorate it with baubles made from recyclable materials! Year 8 Yeamanites George Mills, Isaac Hanfrey, Isaac Stott and Freddie Cronin were caught under the tree looking for some cans with which to make a star for the top of the tree!
Yeaman A world pandemic has not stopped Yeamanites enjoying a very different year at DCPS in which they all displayed the DCPS values of courage, flourishing, love and contribution. Some usual school routines and events had to be adapted but all Yeamanites showed great resilience, resourcefulness and tenacity to have a fantastic year. We were able to enjoy House Cross Country in Year group races in what we now call Year Group Bubbles!
4. Year 8 Yeaman Choristers singing again in Chapel after a long break. In the background is their Yeaman House Tutor, Agent and Minder, Mr Jonathan Gould.
5. Amelia and Maddie (The Pride of Yeaman, DCPS and Shurdington) preparing for House Cricket Matches!
1. Year 4 just before their House Cross Country Race
2. Year 5 and 6 Yeamanites having just finished their House Cross Country Race
6. Yeaman Year 8s particularly enjoyed Pizza and playing Top Trumps during a testing COVID affected year! Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 51
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 14/12/2021 11:57 Page 52
prefects
Prefects & Head Pupils 5
15
Name
Ambassador group to lead
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21.
Charity and Community Links Sport Music Drama X School Links Academic Sport Art and DT X School Links Sustainability and Eco Links Charity and Community Links Academic Sport (not pictured) Drama Sustainability and Eco Music Library Library Drama Academic Sport
Lily Parkes (Head of School) Alice Montgomery (Deputy HoS) Izzy Phillips George Collingwood Hugh Green Alex Ristic George Mills (Deputy HoS) Annabel Lindsay Rosie Thomas Sophie Willsher Freddie Martin Noah Currie Tina Kairiser Ellis Woolley Chloe Ashton Lucy Godfrey Neha Gurung Anouska Shahi Elinor Farrier Max Rai Maxwell Omajuwa Oteri
52 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
1
20
6
12
2 4
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 14/12/2021 11:57 Page 53
prefects
21
11 7
17
9
19
3
14
18
8
16 10
2020/21 Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 53
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:53 Page 54
sport
Sport
If you watch enough live sport on the television you will, no doubt, hear the phrase ‘It was a game of two halves’. Sport at Dean Close Preparatory School, this last year, has not been far from this: it was, in fact, ‘a year of three very different terms’.
Term 1 Michaelmas Term - Coping with COVID
Rugby As we planned for the start of the new academic year, it was clear that sport would not be its normal self. There was talk of ‘bubbles’, ‘social distancing’ and, of course, hand sanitizer! We wondered what the governing bodies would allow us to play and how the pupils and staff would adjust to the ‘new normal’. Contact rugby was suspended - no tackling, no rucks and no mauls - but at least we could play, and at least we were in school playing sport. The rugby balls had to be changed and sanitised - every 15 minutes. Everyone had to sanitize their hands as well, every 15 minutes. It became the norm to see the coaches carrying their bag of rugby balls over their shoulder…and their 5 litre bottle of hand sanitizer in the other. I did wonder how everyone would cope with it but I should not have worried: our pupils were great and fully understood what to do, and the wonderful coaching team we have at school just embraced the changes. For many pupils the contact element of rugby is something that they worry about, so not having to worry about it this time around enabled these pupils to develop a love for the game that perhaps would not have arisen had we had a ‘normal’ season. The main focus in training was to develop and improve handling skills and game sense. The games that we were able to play certainly allowed this to happen; Mr Stanley and I were thrilled to see the standard of the core skills of catching and passing really improve. We are hopeful that the time spent over the season on these skills will be evident when we return to contact rugby in September 2021. To keep a competitive edge to training and matches, we established a system of scoring points to go towards the house competition at the end of term in year groups, where we could not play a traditional competition. By the end of term the seniors competition winners were Oaksey and the Junior winners were also Oaksey.
54 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:54 Page 55
sport
Hockey Hand sanitising, working out how to share cones in a Covid-safe way, quarantining or washing bibs and reminding girls not to touch hockey balls were the key themes of the hockey term! It was a tough one, but the girls (and staff) quickly got used to the routines of hand sanitizing every 15 minutes, as well as competing with each other to see who could flick the most hockey balls into the crate at the end of the practice! Usually our Year 7s and Year 8s are mixed for hockey, but due to ‘bubbles’ this was not the case this year. There are pluses and minuses for both methods but, without the pressure of matches, all coaches felt that skill levels were the winners. Match play, of course, missed out for all years but hopefully September 2021 will provide opportunity for this to be given priority. To keep a competitive element to the term, the Year 7 and 8 girls were split into even teams for Saturdays and internal tournaments were played within each year group. House matches, in their usual format, were possible only in Year 8 because in other year groups there were not enough girls in each house to make a team. However, Years 4 - 7 played tournaments in which players scored points depending on where their team finished and, from this, house averages were achieved. Not the real deal for house matches, but some competitive hockey was played.
Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 55
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:54 Page 56
sport
Term 2 - Lent term and Lockdown Sport The start of the Lent term saw us unexpectedly thrown back into lockdown and, as a games and PE department, we were faced with providing sessions online as well as sessions for the ‘critical worker pupils’ in school. We decided to set up the dance studio as a base for our online sessions and went about trying to work together…while keeping socially distanced. If I am honest, I would admit that we were quite apprehensive about how we would deliver online content to a group of 30 - 70 pupils at a time, and how the pupils would cope with online PE lessons. Once again, we were wrong to be apprehensive as the pupils and parents were great, embracing all that we asked them to do. We soon got into the swing of things and found ourselves delivering a range of sessions. By the end of the lockdown we had completed sessions on Yoga, Pilates, Kickboxing, Boxercise, Tabata sessions, Furniture fitness, Skills with Socks, Heart rate recovery and Scavenger hunts. Through all of these it was great to see so many pupils engaging in the sessions and recognising how important it was to exercise - not only for physical fitness but also for mental well-being. While the online lessons were taking place, the critical worker pupils were kept active in school. Mr Yemm headed up the PE lessons (running on the same timetable as the remote learners) and the children in all years did a variety of tennis, badminton and football mainly - with plenty of other fun activities thrown in. Games lessons were taken by Mr Tredgett, Mrs Bailey, Mr Brailsford and Mrs Withers, and were almost exclusively hockey - holding one’s own hockey stick and nothing else is about as ‘Covid-friendly’ as it gets! Our critical worker pupils were amazing during these sessions and absolutely loved them, especially enjoying so much small game play and adapting to a variety of rules and conditions. As pupils returned to school we were able to adopt a slightly more ‘normal’ games programme, with boys playing hockey and girls playing netball. As before, we had various protocols in place to create a Covid-safe environment for games, and the staff and pupils quickly adjusted to them. During the 3 weeks we were back, a large part of the training was focused on game play to try to make up for how much game time had been lost. We did not play any fixtures but we did manage to play house matches. Again, this was achieved through a combination of points scoring and some more traditional matches. The results of the seniors matches were as follows: Senior House Hockey Senior House Netball Junior House Hockey Junior House Netball
Caldecote Oaksey and Deacon Yeaman Deacon
At the end of the term we were also able to run swimming galas for each year group. This was lots of fun and it was great to see all pupils swim. It was especially good to watch a specific group of DCPS swimmers, the ones who make such a commitment in attending early morning swimming each week: their swimming was particularly impressive. The dedication that they show - along with Mrs Moss - is wonderful, and to see them showcase their skills, in a year when they had not been able to represent the school, was fabulous. Results Year 3 - Deacon Year 5 - Oaksey Year 7 - Yeaman
Year 4 - Oaksey Year 6 - Boarders Year 8 - Boarders
Overall winners
Boarders/Oaksey
56 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
Term 3 Trinity term and the return to fixtures
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:54 Page 57
sport
Trinity 2021 will be remembered as the term when we finally got back to playing matches and even had parents returning to watch pupils compete.
Tennis Tennis matches usually manage to dodge the weather - hard courts drain pretty well and Astro courts don’t hold water for long. However, returning to tennis matches for the first time in two years was met with some pretty miserable British weather, and even our most optimistic efforts saw matches cancelled during the first half of term - the rain was determined to arrive on Wednesdays and Saturdays! Matches were also dependent on what other schools wanted to do - we had entered the LTA team tennis competition in the hope that it would go ahead as usual, but after a fantastic, hard-fought win against Westonbirt in our first match, the competition died as the other two schools in our group pulled out. The return to fixtures was…stuttering! We did manage to get in fixtures against Bromsgrove, CLC, Beaudesert and Clifton, and it would be fair to say that the learning curve for all girls was huge, as the scoring system in tennis is pretty confusing, added to which a year of learning had been missed. On the last Wednesday of term the senior girls tennis players played house matches. The difference in numbers of girls between the houses was, in itself, a challenge to manage, and many girls were brilliant at working out rotations to have three girls in a ‘pair’. There were a lot of really good matches and the standard of tennis was testament to how hard the girls worked during the term. The Fortfield girls had the bit between their teeth, winning 16 of their 19 sets played - great work!
Cricket As ever in the cricket season, we were heavily dependent on the weather and, in true fashion, just as we looked to start having school fixtures again, the weather decided to have its say and we found ourselves going a couple of weeks without playing. It really did seem like it was only going to rain on Wednesdays and Saturdays! This seriously affected the opportunities for all the teams to play the matches we had been able to set up - very frustrating. The U8 group missed out on the limited number of matches we had been able to arrange as the weather meant they were cancelled; however, we were thrilled with how well they trained in lessons and the progress they made. Their understanding of the game really improved in the latter part of the term and we look forward to seeing how they play, next season. The U9 group were hugely passionate about their cricket and, as a group, trained hard and played very well. Both the A and the B side enjoyed good victories and demonstrated a good level of skill. Mr West and Mr Veron were pleased with their progress and how keen they all were to develop and improve.
The U10 boys worked tremendously hard during the season with Mr Jones and certainly improved their knowledge and understanding of the game. The last time these boys played cricket they were in Year 3. By the end of the season they had progressed well and will be ready for hard ball cricket next season. The Year 6 cricketers enjoyed a mixture of hard ball and soft ball matches. The U11C played with huge amounts of enthusiasm and in a spirit that had a number of staff comment on what a great group of boys they are. Tyson Williams, with his baseball style stance and willingness to hit the ball hard, was a particular highlight. The U11B side enjoyed the chance to play some hard ball pairs games and developed their skills nicely. The A side, under the guidance of Mr Tredgett, were involved in some fantastic matches, losing narrowly by 1 run to Beaudesert and then beating St Hugh’s by 1 run. It was also great to have a girl, Verity Lilley, play in the ‘A side’ for the first time. In the senior part of the school we were excited to have ‘mixed’ cricket sides for the first time, with girls and boys competing for places in all the teams. Across the senior section we put out 9 sides, with 4 teams playing hard ball matches. A lot is often made of the format and type of cricket that pupils are playing. This season showed me that the most important thing is that pupils are playing cricket, accessing the sport and having a chance to play at the level that is appropriate for them. This was very much the case with the senior teams. We had hat-tricks, reverse sweep shots and lots of sixes in the soft ball games. An indicator as to how much the pupils were enjoying their cricket was evident by watching them play their own games during break and lunch times. In the hard ball matches the U12 A and B teams enjoyed some good wins and showed an improvement in their understanding of the need for consistency and concentration. It was great to see Emme Davies and Lucy Turner playing key roles in the U12 B side and to see both George Cansdale and Freddie Hill batting with such focus in the A side. In the U13 A and B squads one of the most encouraging moments was watching Louise Cottingham progress from the U13D team to secure a place in the U13B squad, bowling with a hard ball and doing really well. The A team struggled to play with consistency, but they certainly did not lack effort, and as a group developed well, culminating in a well-earned victory against BGS. A special mention must be given to George Collingwood who always played with such enthusiasm and did a fantastic job captaining the side. House match results: Y8 Mixed Cricket - Caldecote Y6 Mixed Cricket - Yeaman
Y7 Mixed Cricket - Oaksey Y5 Mixed Cricket - Oaksey
Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 57
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 22:13 Page 58
equestrian
Equestrian The Dean Close Prep school equestrian programme has continued to develop and broaden with new and exciting riders joining the prep team riders. Despite the season being very stop-start with Covid restrictions and limitations the prep riders have secured some fantastic results and achievements, with National, Plate and Grass Roots qualifications. With over 20 Boys and Girls from the Prep-School either competing or learning to ride this year. There has been a huge increase in our team riders and the results are showing for themselves. Once again, this year the Dean Close Prep team riders have played an integral role this season, joining with riders from across the Foundation to qualify for major finals and secure national qualifications.
Dressage Over the October half term prep riders Maddie Melville Smith, Year 7, and Ella-Grace Dovey, Year 6, joined with the Senior team riders to contest the National NSEA dressage qualifiers at Kings Bromyard. Both riders rode beautifully to support the team to take two team National qualifications and Maddie achieved individual National qualification in the Prelim.
Eventer Challenge The Michaelmas term campaign saw a new event for the Dean Close equestrian programme as we hosted an Eventer Challenge NSEA National qualifier. Team came from across the country and our own Dean Close Senior team took the 90cms win. Arthur Clarkson, Year 7, produced a lovely round over 24 very challenging fences.
NSEA Dressage Grass Roots Fenella Cradock, Year 5, and Marielle Del Valle headed out to the Grass Roots Dressage qualifier in December at Kings Bromyard both girls rode lovely tests to achieve qualification in both Intro and prelim finals. These were delayed due to lockdowns until March 2021. Again, both girls did some fabulous riding, Fenella took reserve champion in both Intro and Prelim Grass Roots National South West Finals.
New Partnerships Ella- Grace Dovey, Year 6, started a new partnership with DST Don’t Panic, they have an impressive start to their dressage career together achieving individual National and County Cup qualification for both prelim and novice. Outside of school Ella-Grace has continued to progress with the BD youth team and achieved huge success in winning the Novice Petplan Bronze dressage finals.
58 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 21:19 Page 59
equestrian
NSEA Eventer Challenge National Qualification Once again Dean Close Prep riders have been riding in all disciplines this year. Maddie Melville – Smith made the most of being able to compete again in April and secured her first National Eventer Challenge qualification in the 70cms. Maddie travelled to Hickstead in May for the Eventer Challenge National Finals, where she jumped a skilful clear to take 21st place from the 70+ competitors.
Dean Close SJ event It was wonderful to be able to once again the Dean Close Show Jumping event at Rectory Farm in June. A hugely popular event with schools from across the country attending. Prep riders Joey Webb, Marielle Del Valle, Fenella Cradock, Arthur Clarkson and Maddie Melville- Smith all representing DCP with some excellent riding. Marielle, Year 4, did an impressive fast clear in the 70-75cms to secure individual 4th place and her qualification for the NSEA Plate championships, a fabulous achievement for this exciting young rider. Gabriel Mattle, Year 8,jumping with the Dean Close Senior riders rode a brilliant clear in the 1-1.05m to help the team secure 2nd place overall and take their qualification to the NSEA National Championships. He then contested the 1.10 which was causing issues for many of the riders, he jumped a skilful round to take individual 5th place and his qualification for the NSEA Plate Championship finals.
Well done to all the riders who have been out and competed for DCPS this year - your results are a representation of your hard work and dedication during one of the most challenging years to date! If you are a keen rider with your own pony there are lots of opportunities to represent the Foundation from Grass Roots level to more advanced, therefore if you would like to be involved and be part of the Dean Close Equestrian team for the Prep School, please make contact with the Director of Equestrianism, Fleur Cradock. Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 59
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:54 Page 60
sportsday
Sports Day
The end of term saw us being able to run three sports days. It was great to welcome a large number of parents back on site and to see the pupils cheer each other on. We saw some wonderful individual efforts with a number of pupils breaking records, some of which had stood for a long time.
60 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:54 Page 61
sportsday
Dean Close Preparatory School Sports Day Winners 2021 (New records in bold) YEAR
EVENT
BOYS
GIRLS
U9 (Year 3)
70m 200m 400m LONG JUMP CRICKET BALL
Archie Lait Herbie Pitt Herbie Pitt Joseph Webb Louis Whiteoak
Helena Clarke Tasha Calderwood Helena Clarke Alejandra Ham-Romero Rose Mason
U10 (Year 4)
70m 200m 400m LONG JUMP CRICKET BALL
Jesse Hall Will Bunner Will Bunner Jesse Hall Thomas Naylor
Beatrix Heathcoat-Amory Beatrix Heathcoat-Amory Rose Boorman Anaelle Munch Georgia King
U10/U9
800m Open
William Bunner
Helena Clarke
U11 (Year 5)
80m 200m 400m 800m LONG JUMP HIGH JUMP CRICKET BALL
Henry Whiteoak Noah Chatterton Henry Whiteoak Noah Chatterton Marley Werrett Henry Whiteoak Harry Cottam
Lily Pattinson Lily Pattinson Charlie Parker- Thomas Charlie Parker- Thomas Niharika Sane Uma Wang Emilia Brierley-Jones
U12 (Year 6)
80m 200m 400m 800m 1500m LONG JUMP HIGH JUMP CRICKET BALL
JJ Masters JJ Masters Zac Litman Zac Litman Edward Willsher Edward Willsher Harry Stott Xavier Law
Matilda Pitt Nagyda Omereonye Verity Lilley Verity Lilley Verity Lilley Lola Bifulco Nagyda Omereonye Zara Ristic
U13 (Year 7)
100m 200m 400m 800m LONG JUMP TRIPLE JUMP HIGH JUMP JAVELIN SHOT PUTT
Alex Horner Alex Horner Henry Troughton Arthur Clarkson Alex Horner Charlie Acid/Harry Dickerson Osazemen Osawe Jonathan Juckes Jonathan Juckes
Emily Massey Lucy Turner Sofia Williamson Sofia Williamson Christina Naylor Amelia Davanzo Christina Naylor Nova Yu Abigail Keats
100m 200m 400m 800m LONG JUMP TRIPLE JUMP HIGH JUMP JAVELIN SHOT PUTT
Maxwell Jnr Omajuwa Oteri Michael Lyon Alex Pond Lucas Preece Maxwell Jnr Omajuwa Oteri Kwabena Ofosu-Apea Maxwell Jnr Omajuwa Oteri Michael Lyon Freddie Martin
Elinor Farrier Elinor Farrier Sophie Willsher Ellis Woolley Elinor Farrier Ellie Penhallow Penny Page Poppy Kwintner Anouska Shai
1500m Open
Arthur Clarkson
Ellis Woolley
Caldecote 56.16s 2002
Wilton 59.01s 1999
U14 (Year 8)
Sports Day House Cups Best Junior House Boys - Oaksey Best Junior House Girls - Deacon Best Intermediate House Boys - Boarders Best Intermediate House Girls - Deacon Best Senior House Boys - Oaksey Best Senior House Girls - Fortfield
U14/U13
SENIOR (Years 7 & 8) RELAYS
Champion House Overall winner - Oaksey
Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 61
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:55 Page 62
speechday
Speech Day We were delighted to be able to come together as a small, socially distanced, community to celebrate the academic year of 2020/2021, this year.
We were unable to invite all parents to the special event, however the entire proceedings were broadcast live through streaming to the rest of the Dean Close Preparatory School community. The occasion was marked with accounts from pupils of the year that had passed, speeches, and pupil awards, marking the achievements of so many of our pupils in what has been an exceptionally testing year.
62 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:55 Page 63
speechday
We were thrilled to welcome our guest speaker, Mr James Shone, the founder of the charity, I Can & I Am: Following a 16 year teaching career and having been offered a job as Headmaster in 2012, James was diagnosed with a brain tumour. Following 27 hours of brain surgery James unfortunately lost the majority of his sight. However, James is a man who embodies a positive attitude to life and a determination to turn setbacks into springboards. As a teacher, this was at the heart of his pastoral message and his focus now is on spreading the messages of ‘I Can & I Am’ to as many individuals across the UK and beyond as possible. Put simply, the heart of his charity is to inspire confidence in every individual to enable them to know who they are and what they are able to do, rather than focusing on what they can’t. James’ message was so important and uplifting, highlighting our theme, taken from our school values, for this year’s Speech Day – Courage.
Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 63
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:56 Page 64
speechday
64 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:56 Page 65
speechday
The entire event was a unique opportunity for us to come together, whether that be in person, or via live stream, after so many restrictions and missed events due to Covid-19.
Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 65
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:56 Page 66
leavers’trip
Leavers’Trip DEVON 2021 After a ‘Covid break’ from the Year 8 Devon Trip (in 2020), it was with great joy that we found ourselves once more upon the M5, heading south to Devon, and St George’s House on the north coast – for the Year 8 Devon Trip, 2021! All week we were blessed with wall to wall sunshine, the most common staff request being, “Make sure you slap on your sunscreen, please!” Ringoeing on the Taw Estuary, surfing from Putsborough Beach, climbing on the sea cliffs of Baggy Point, and mountain biking amongst the beautiful Red Valerian plants on the Devon lanes and tracks - all endeavours that the Year 8s enjoyed. Not to mention coasteering and kayaking out of Lee Bay and Ilfracombe harbour. The school-based activities included camping in the school grounds, and the now traditional £3.50 challenge: the children shopping for their evening meal, cooked on camping stoves. The best method? Club together with 3 others for a £14 feast! Then off for a visit to Croft Farm Waterpark for paddleboarding, followed by an adventure on Bredon Hill. A busy week then, and one that the Year 8s will remember for years to come.
66 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
£3.50 challenge .... the best method? Club together with 3 others for a £14 feast!
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:57 Page 67
leavers’trip
Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 67
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:57 Page 68
olddecaniansociety
Old Decanian Society
The Old Decanians win the Edward Harris Cup by three points at Royal Porthcawl Golf Club. This year's line-up for the Edward Harris Cup (first played in 1938) included, Old Breconians, Old Malvernians, Old Bromsgrovians, Old Cheltonians and Old Wycliffians. The Old Decanian team consisted of Robert Hornby (Field, 1967), Ian Bevan-Jones (Tower, 1972), Jon Sidebottom (Brook, 1997), Alasdair Carroll (Court, 1984), Ali Smith (Field 2003), Alex Hume (Dale, 2002), James Ford (Dale, 1980) and Jack Ford (Dale, 2010). With supporters Jeremy Winter (Walton Court, 1961) and Brian Wilson.
Dani Gibson (Hatherley, 2019) starred for the Western Storm in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy, which they won, and the Women’s Regional T20. She also played for London Spirit in The Hundred Danielle was nominated for the CINCH PCA Women’s Player of the Year. In her 21 appearances across the three competitions, Gibson has amassed over 250 cumulative runs, averaging 36 and with a strike rate of 180 in The Hundred, as well as 13 wickets including seven at an average of just 15.3 in the Charlotte Edwards Cup. Gibson’s all-round talents are illustrated by the fact that she has scored 37 fielding MVP points in the PCA MVP Rankings – the second most of any outfielder in the women’s domestic game.
68 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
Tokyo 2020 Paralympics 2020 Congratulations to Issy Bailey (Fawley, 2012) on your international PB, Pistol Shooting at your second Paralympic Games. As the sole representative in pistol shooting in the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics GB squad, Issy competed in the women’s 10m air pistol SH1 and mixed 25m pistol SH1.
Old Decanian Cricket Two very good Cricket matches took place in OD Cricket Week. The ODCC were in action on the vs The Gloucestershire Gipsies which ended in a draw. This was followed by the DCS Kenya Tour Reunion (2000) fixture, which ended in a win for the Kenya Touring XI. It was great to see many ODs, former staff and their families on the boundaries edge. We are looking forward to next year already!
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:57 Page 69
olddecaniansociety
Rugby Internationals Freddie Thomas (Field 2020) who plays his club rugby with Gloucester represented England U20’s and Ulster Academy player James Humphreys (Field 2020) represented Ireland U20’s.
In preparation for Journalism apprenticeship applications, Sixth Form pupil Sydney had been fortunate enough to interview some incredible Old Decanians. Learning more about their fascinating careers and how their schooling here prepared them for their futures. The 10-15 minute interviews was released throughout April via the Old Decanian Society’s social media. The interviewees were…
The Dean Close Foundation
Business Directory is now available to access online.
Hugh Quarshie (Brook, 1971), who is best known for his appearances in Star Wars, Casualty, Holby City and his work with the Royal Shakespeare Company.
Political Advisor, Lecturer and Author Emma Sky OBE (Shelburne, 1986) ‘Emma served in Iraq as the political advisor to US General Ray Odierno and General David Petraeus during the surge in 2007'. Dom Faulkner (Field, 1986) who is known for his leadership of EVERESTMAX, one of the most ambitious and successful British expeditions. Journalist, Photographer and Filmmaker Jack Losh (Dale, 2006) where we got to find out what has inspired Jack to report on conservation, humanitarian issues and traditional cultures.
Tethered Wits Theatre Company, co-founded by Gabriella Sills (Shelburne, 2018) and Amy Porter (Hatherley, 2016), successfully toured the local Gloucestershire area this summer with their production of ‘Pygmalion’ (pictured). They would like to thank the Old Decanians and community that turned out to support the company. Following offers from several Drama schools, Gabriella will be taking up a place on the Creative Producing MA at the prestigious Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts in September 2021.
PHOTO: BOMBARDIER MURRAY KER/MOD CROWN COPYRIGHT 2021
This shot of Officer Cadet Freddie Faux (Brook Court, 2018) and his proud mother, Wendy, after Sovereign’s Parade at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and was highly commended at the British Army film and photographic awards.
If you would like to read more Old Decanian News, please contact Alex Hume in the Old Decanian Society Office for a copy of the Flecker.
Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 69
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:57 Page 70
development
DEVELOPMENT
C A M PA I G N
Our Campaigns The Development Office is responsible for driving fundraising to enable the Foundation to deliver an extra layer of benefit for all those that study and work at the School. The team comprises of Alex Hume, Head of Development and Alumni and newly appointed Development Gift Manager, Francesca Burgess. We are pleased to report that this academic year, despite the challenges presented by the pandemic, has been a great success and we are overwhelmed by the generosity displayed by the Dean Close Community.
FOUNDATION AWARD RECIPIENT COMPLETES HIS TIME Will Kennedy, the first Foundationer who was supported by the parents of the Class of 2018, has now successfully completed his time with us. During his time at the School, Will studied Maths, Chemistry and Biology at A Level and now has hopes to go on to study Veterinary Science at Cambridge, Edinburgh, Nottingham or Glasgow universities. He has taken several work placements in preparation for this, as well as having spent several holidays working on local farms; at the moment he sees himself as a vet for farm animals.
Foundation Awards The Foundation Awards are now in their third year and we are incredibly proud of what has been achieved so far. Since 2018, our community has supported us in our goal to widen access to the School and give opportunities to talented young people who can benefit from our unique style of education.
Will reflects on the time he spent at Dean close. “I just want to say a massive thank you for the opportunity that has been provided to me, I never thought studying at Dean Close would be possible; I have had such an amazing time over the past two years. The environment that Dean Close provides really enabled me to flourish in all of my subjects and extracurricular activities. This has enabled me to fulfil my potential and hopefully pursue my dreams of one day becoming a vet.” Thank you to all those that support our Foundation Awards and who make opportunities like this possible.
Cornerstone Society If you have left, or are thinking about leaving a Legacy to Dean Close in your Will, you are eligible to join the Cornerstone Society. For more information and to receive and invite to our Legacy event happening in the New Year hosted by the Warden, please contact Development Gift Manager, Frankie Burgess.
Telephone: 01242 267446 Email: fburgess@deanclose.org.uk .
We are immensely grateful for all the support this year and move into next year with increasing confidence and ambition.
70 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
If you would like more information on supporting the Foundation Awards or would like to pledge your support for our upcoming projects, please contact Frankie on fburgess@deanclose.org.uk or call 01242 267466.
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:57 Page 71
21 Century Campus
Giving Day for the 1886 Centre On Friday 7th May, the Development Office launched its first-ever Giving Day. The hugely successfully 24-hour online event saw several members of the Close Community come together support the redevelopment of the front corridor of the main school building, which is now home to Mathematics, Business and Economics. Together, several donors raised over £500,000 which enabled the Foundation to deliver on this ambitious project. The creation of this state-of-the-art teaching facility will ensure that Dean Close can encourage excitement and collaboration in these subjects; for our pupils, as well as for the pupils of our partnered schools in Cheltenham. We owe enormous thanks to the ODs, parents, former parents, staff, former staff, Council members, Trustees and friends that supported us in the creation of this inspirational learning space. “It is an honour to have the opportunity to support the continued development of the STEM subjects at Dean Close. It is such an exciting area at all levels now and in the future, so Dean Close having the ability to teach in top class facilities is just brilliant.” Richard Hildick-Smith (Brook Court 2005)
SUPPORT FROM A LEGACY GIFT Peter Lynam’s (Gate 1946) generous Legacy gift was utilised for the redevelopment and we are pleased to be able to honor his legacy on our donor board, which will be displayed along the front corridor in perpetuity. The completion of this redevelopment is an important milestone in our 21st Century Campus campaign; a phased programme of new building work and refurbishment to
transform our teaching and learning at the School. Thank you to everyone who participated in this event, we are looking forward to welcoming the donors back on Saturday 11th December 2021 for the official opening, as well as embarking on Phase 2 of Academic Quad Redevelopment. If you would like to read Peter Lynam’s obituary, please contact the Development Office.
Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1 ~ 71
Young Decanian 2021 (MASTER TEXT)_Layout 1 13/12/2021 16:57 Page 72
stafffarewells
Paul Yates, DCPS Groundsman Paul first started work at Dean Close back in the mid 1970s and dedicated himself to keeping the grounds – the lawns, paths, drives, trees and plants – looking smart, presentable and safe for all of us. Thank you, Paul, for your hard work and total dependability over this exceptionally long period of service to Dean Close. We wish you a very long and happy retirement.
Staff Farewells Kate and Dan Fraine, Wilton House Parents 2017-2021 Kate and Dan Fraine have completed four very happy and fulfilling years as Wilton House Parents, looking after our younger boarding pupils with such dedication. Parents of Wilton boarders are so grateful to the Fraines – as we all are – for their unstinting hard work, their patience, their love and sense of humour. Wilton has been a happy place and children have felt secure because Kate and Dan’s approach has been one of embracing the Wilton children like they were simply part of their own family. And, arguably most important of all, Kate set expectations for fruit and veg consumption by pupils which were so high that these will never be matched, and boarders’ digestive tracts will never be so well polished again! Thank you, wonderful Fraine family.
Rachel Smith, DCPS Healthcare Supervisor (2018-2021) Thank you so much to Mrs Smith for looking after us through Covid-19 and tending to our bumps and grazes! Good luck in returning to the NHS.
Farewell to our younger staff! We extend a HUGE “thank you and farewell” to all our departing matrons and gappers and music department scholars - you have worked tirelessly and with great humour, giving so much to children, staff, parents and the school as a whole during your time with us. Back row, left to right: Mr Oliver Way, Mr Josh Roebuck (Organ Scholar) and Mr McKenzie Brailsford. Front row, left to right: Miss Bryony Parkinson, Miss Aoife Housden, Miss Imogen White, Miss Niamh Spiers and Miss Lilyella Bennet.
72 ~ Yo u n g D e c a n i a n 2 0 2 0 / 2 1
John Stillman, Music Department and ‘band member’ John worked as part of the music department peripatetic staff team for around 20 years, teaching piano to many pupils over the years. His jazzy musicianship was second to none and his contributions to many, many drama and music department shows and performances – as part of the ‘band’ – will always be remembered with affection.
Young Decanian Cover 2021_Layout 1 13/12/2021 22:38 Page 2
Staff Teaching Staff
Young contents
Decanian
Technicians
Mrs Melanie Andrews
Art and Design Technology Teacher
Reverend John Ash
Chaplain (Foundation)
Mrs Henrietta Cross Mrs Helen McWilliam-Clune
Mrs Emma Bailey
Designated Safeguarding Lead / Head of Girls’ Games / Science Teacher
Teaching Assistants Mrs Sophie Cooper
Mrs Lisa Bailey
Year 5 Teacher
Mrs Rachel Beecham
Deacon Houseparent / Geography Teacher
Mr Simon Bell
Director of Schola Cantorum
Mrs Rachel Bowen
Music Teacher
Mr Robin Brown
Head of Mathematics
Mrs Jo Cahill
Head of Learning Support
Mr Steve Cahill
Geography Teacher
Mrs Maria Chare
EAL Teacher
Miss Cathie Cooper
Drama Teacher
Mr Michael Cooper
Caldecote Houseparent / Mathematics Teacher
Mrs Katherine Cox
EAL Teacher
Mrs Sarah Davies
Head of PSHCE and Wellbeing
Mr Matthew Dobbs
Head of Latin
Mr Kevin Donnelly
Director of Studies
Miss Annabel Eelbeck
Year 3 Teacher
Mrs Jenny Fletcher
Year 4 Teacher
Mr Daniel Fraine
Wilton Houseparent / Head of Science
Mrs Kate Fraine
Wilton Houseparent / Year 4 Teacher
Mrs Anita Godley
Assistant Director of Music
Miss Rosalind Goldrick
Modern Foreign Languages Teacher
Mrs Christine Goodwin
Head of EAL
Mr Jonathan Gould
Academic Director / Head of History
Mr Eric Harris
Oaksey Houseparent / RS Teacher / PSHCE Teacher
Mr Jonathan Harris
Deputy Head (Operations and Compliance) / History Teacher
Mrs Louise Hunt
Head of Pastoral / Forest School Coordinator
Mr David Jones
Head of Design and Technology
Mrs Lynne Lawrence
Director of Drama and Dance
Charity ..........................................40
Headline News ................................2
Pastoral .........................................41
Mrs Jane Lyons
Learning Support Teacher / Chorister Tutor
Angus Caton....................................6
Form Photographs ........................43
Mr Tim McVittie
Director of Music
Active Academics ...........................8
Boarding Houses...........................46
Mrs Joanne Morgan
Science Teacher
Creative Writing ...........................14
Day Houses ...................................49
Mrs Julie Moss
Science Week ...............................16
Prefects and Head Pupils .............52
Maths & Swimming Teacher / PS Swimming Coordinator
Music ............................................18
Sport .............................................54
Mr Paddy Moss
Headmaster
Schola Cantorum .........................22
Equestrian.....................................58
Mrs Sharon Ridsdale
Year 3 Teacher
Miss Charlotte Rubringer
Head of Computing and Digital Learning
Mrs Clare Salisbury
Head of RS
Mrs Rosemarie Scharf
Learning Support Teacher
Mrs Joanna Sheldon
Fortfield Houseparent
Mr Robert Shelley
Head of English
Mr Christopher Standing
Yeaman Houseparent / English Teacher
Mr John Sutherland
Director of Sport / Head of Boys’ Games / Common Room Co-Chair
Mrs Lucy Sutherland
Head of Art
Sports Day.....................................60
Art Department .............................28
Speech Day ..................................62
Design & Technology ...................32
Leavers’ Trip..................................66
EAL ...............................................35
Old Decanian Society....................68
Forest School ...............................36
Development ................................70
Chaplaincy ...................................38
Staff ..............................................72
Edited and produced by: Katie Azam & Bob Shelley General Photography: DCPS Staff Design: Adam Hathaway (Hathagraphics Ltd.)
Miss Emma Harris Mrs Ruth Harris Miss Penny Sparrow Miss Julia Windsor
Teaching Assistant / Caldecote Houseparent / Saturday Receptionist Boarding Coordinator / Teaching Assistant / Deputy Safeguarding Lead Teaching Assistant Teaching Assistant Teaching Assistant Teaching Assistant / School Librarian
Academic Support Staff Miss Bryony Parkinson Mr Simeon Taylor Mr Harrison Williams
Chaplain’s Assistant (Sep 2019 – Jul 2021) Chaplain’s Assistant (Sep 2020 – Jul 2022) Choral Scholar (Mar 2021 – Jul 2021)
Mrs Alice Gould
Office and Administration Support Staff Mrs Katie Azam Senior Marketing Co-Ordinator Ms Sara Clark PA to the Headmaster Mrs Katie Fergusson Head of Admissions Mrs Rhian Hayes Registrar Ms Katie Miller Greatbatch Administrative Assistant Mrs Sadie Johns Admissions Assistant Mrs Deborah Smith Office Manager and School Secretary
Headmaster’s Introduction.............1
Drama ...........................................24
Science Technician Art and DT Technician
Mrs Sophie Thomas
PE Teacher
Mr Bruno Veron
Head of Modern Foreign Languages
Mr Giles Wadsworth
Year 4 Teacher
Mr Phillip West
Year 5 Teacher / Common Room Co-Chair (Bold = member of SLT)
Nurses & Matrons Mrs Rose Bright Mrs Elenita Hills Mrs Alexandra Horlock Miss Aoife Housden Mrs Jane Plant Mrs Rachel Smith Miss Niamh Spiers
Saturday Health Care Supervisor EHCaldecote Matron (Non-Residential) AHWilton Matron (Non-Residential) Resident Pastoral Assistant, Wilton (Sep 2020 – Jul 2021) Fortfield Matron (Non-Residential) Health Care Supervisor NSResident Pastoral Assistant, Fortfield (Sep 2020 – Jul 2021)
Tutors/Gappers Mr McKenzie Brailsford Miss Emma Darby Miss Michaela Pinkham Mr Oliver Way Miss Imogen White
Caldecote Gap Year Tutor (Sep 2020 – Jul 2021) Fortfield Gap Year Tutor (Jan 2021 – Mar 2021) Fortfield Gap Year Tutor (Jan 2021 – Dec 2021) Caldecote Gap Year Tutor (Sep 2020 – Jul 2021) Wilton Gap Year Tutor (Apr 2021 – Jul 2021)
Games Coaches – Part Time Mrs Fleur Cradock Mr Leaun Davies Mr Lee Fortey Mr Tom Harris Mrs Katie Holder Mr Ben Jenkins Miss Kelly Long Mrs Angie Pearce Mr Jason Poole Mr Mike Powell Mr Andrew Stanley Mr Gary Tredgett Mr Matt Yemm Mrs Norn Warden Mrs Donna Withers
Director of Equestrianism Hockey Coach Rugby Coach Tennis Coach Director of Netball Strength and Conditioning Coach Director of Swimming Games Coach Tennis Coach Director of Cricket Director of Rugby Director of Hockey Director of Tennis Games Coach Games Coach
Young Decanian Cover 2021_Layout 1 13/12/2021 22:37 Page 1
Young Decanian
Lansdown Road Cheltenham Gloucestershire GL51 6QS Telephone 01242 512217 www.deanclose.org.uk
Cross Country‘bubbles’ Let’s film a drama production! Leaders in online learning
