Notes from the Acting Vice-Master

Gareth Weaver-Tyler, Acting Vice-Master July to December 2020

(July-December 2020)

In times of uncertainty we have needed to be adaptable and I strongly believe we have achieved this as an entire Hatfield family. When the global pandemic started in March 2020 and the University started to close, I was the University Head Hockey Coach, and little did I know that a mere three months later I would be seconded to the role of Vice-Master at Hatfield. I would like to take this opportunity to state the honour it has been to be part of College life at Hatfield and a huge thanks to the entire Hatfield family.

Unfortunately, due to Covid-19, I did not have the pleasure of seeing Hatfield in its true full colours and this is something I will look forward to in the future when normal times resume. I did, however, manage to get the opportunity to wear my gown on one occasion during Michaelmas Term, to attend a socially-distanced Formal. This was, of course, a highlight of my time at Hatfield, primarily seeing first-hand our wonderful students enjoy themselves in the Dining Hall. However, secretly, it was due to wanting to enjoy one meal on the huge tables that myself and Will Green (Hatfield’s amazing Food and Beverage Services Manager), had to move to maximise the dining capacity when the numbers per student household were significantly reduced. The reason behind disclosing such a story is far greater than purely moving tables to maximise numbers that could be catered for in one sitting – it typifies the All One Hatfield culture. Michaelmas Term was extremely difficult for all, but the spirit and the connection amongst all staff and students was incredible and allowed us to maximise every opportunity. Culture in any organisation must be demonstrated by strong leadership and in Professor Ann MacLarnon we have this in abundance. I am extremely grateful that Ann gave me the chance to be seconded to the role in Hatfield and without doubt I have made a friend for life.

The culture of All One Hatfield was always present, even in our darkest hours. I was so fortunate to work alongside so many outstanding staff and students at Hatfield who collectively came together repeatedly

High Table at Freshers’ Formal Covid-style 2020 – front James Reid, Minnie Parker (Senior Freps).

to overcome difficult situations. Whether this was working with David Embleton, Operations Manager, to ensure all Covid-19 risk assessments were signed off to open Hatfield facilities, or Katie Stobbs, Assistant Master, who has been instrumental this year, alongside Brenda Mitchell, in ensuring all our students were supported. Fantastic working relationships were not exclusive to College staff, as our student leaders continually stepped up to work in partnership with staff to enhance life at Hatfield. From Senior Man, Sam Goring, to James Reid and Minnie Parker (Senior Freps) all the way through to our newly appointed Household Reps I thank every one of you! Leadership amongst your peers is never easy, but thank you for everything you have contributed to Hatfield this year. It might not have been our best year, but it has certainly been memorable and this would not have been possible without you! I would also like to extend a huge thank you to our College Mentors who were equally adaptable this year under difficult circumstances and became household mentors through online platforms rather than playing their more usual role. Finally, a huge and very special thank you to Janet Raine our wonderful Senior College Administrator, for listening to so many questions throughout my time at Hatfield. Janet really is the true oracle of all Hatfield knowledge! Will I be disappointed to see the back of Covid-19? Absolutely not, but am I disappointed to see the end of my time at Hatfield? ABSOLUTELY! However, we all know ‘Once a Hatfielder, always a Hatfielder’ and therefore I am sure I will see many of you at a College function in the near future.

Thank you to everyone who has made me feel part of the Hatfield family.

Gareth Weaver-Tyler