The OL Club Review
In Memoriam James Stephen ‘Jim’ Woodhouse (1933–2021) Head Master, Lancing College 1981–1993 James Stephen Woodhouse became Head Master of Lancing in September 1981. It was a vibrant time at the College with rising numbers and reputation. This was enhanced by various members of staff being appointed to headships and the Head, Ian Beer, moving to Harrow, only to be succeeded by the head of Rugby which was seen as an affirmation of Lancing’s reputation. Ian had set a cracking pace and James, or Jim as he was always and most affectionately known, had the experience, wisdom and stature (in every sense) to take up the challenge. The son of a popular Bishop, he had read English at St Catharine’s College, Cambridge and been Master of the Queen’s Scholars at Westminster before his 14 years at Rugby. Jim would serve Lancing with distinction for 12 years and his legacy is impressive. The place seemed congenial to him: perhaps the proximity of the sea suited the sailor. Jim was scholarly, cultivated, athletic and a good allround sportsman. He was an active member of the English Department under Alan Black and Stephen Cornford and a strong supporter of Drama and Music. Early in his time the Lancing Theatre was created in the shell of the old swimming pool. This was an economical option and, almost unbelievably, much of the work was done by staff and pupils. Jim encouraged the project which epitomised his educational ideals. With subsequent improvements, the Theatre is still one of Lancing’s great assets. He inherited the complex problem of where to place the rebuilt Chapel organ. Its triumphant appearance on the west wall involved abandoning the proposed antechapel which paved the way for the recent completion of the Chapel. Jim helped to facilitate this with his characteristic non-confrontational grace and pragmatism. He was an active supporter of the Chapel, although bred to a different tradition, and he sought to broaden its impact. John Inge was ordained in Chapel and Trevor Huddleston preached, inaugurating a series of lectures on international issues. This encouraged the links with Malawi which are an important part of Jim’s legacy. On arrival Jim was shocked by the unreconstructed state of much of the 19th century boarding accommodation. Over the next decade the old houserooms and dormitories began to disappear and study bedrooms multiplied. These were not headline-grabbing developments, but they transformed the boarding experience. Comfortable houses were also built for the Chaplain and the Field’s Housemaster. In 1985 a second Boarding House for Sixth Form girls was opened. The market was strong and Jim was keen to start full co-education, but it seemed that Lancing was not ready. A more ruthless
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THE QUAD
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ADVENT 2021
