M ALVERN VIEW Issue 21 | Lent 2015
www.malverncollege.org.uk
CCF: Winter mountaineering in Scotland
Malvern View • Lent 2015
Malvern College excels for independent thinkers
From the Headmaster
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I do hope that you will enjoy this edition of the Malvern View reflecting, as usual, the tapestry of events at Malvern in the academic sphere, music, sport and beyond. In particular, 2015 is a very special year for the Malvern community since it is our 150th Anniversary and there has been much activity in which our pupils, staff, Old Malvernians and others have delighted. I am sure that you will sense from the pages which follow how much the majority of our pupils enjoy what they are doing at school and benefit from it and how vibrant this community is.
‘Malvern College has been hugely influential in trailblazing the International Baccalaureate and is an example of a school that encourages independent thinking and learning’ (Telegraph, 18 January 2015). Malvern was one of the first schools to introduce the IB in 1992 as an alternative to A levels in the Sixth Form and has been preparing pupils for the IB, as well as A levels in the Sixth Form, ever since. The IB is not just a recognised route to universities at home and abroad; its ethos is to educate the whole person and provide the necessary skills to succeed in a rapidly changing world. Its great strength is in its educational philosophy which is advanced and has, at its heart, a holistic development process that encourages pupils to become free thinkers and independent learners, preparing them well for the world beyond school.
Antony Clark Headmaster
Joseph Zivny heads for Harvard Having been awarded a Harvard Book Prize earlier in the term, Joseph has recently achieved his ambition of an unconditional place at Harvard University to read Mathematics. This crowns a very distinguished academic career at Malvern. Joseph’s results in public examinations, the leading role he has played in the College academic societies and debating arenas (including as a founding member of the Model United Nations team) and the scholarly example he has set his fellow pupils have all been quite outstanding. Aside from all this, he plays an exemplary role as College Sacristan and senior member of the RAF section of the Malvern CCF. He is a young man with a boundless intellectual appetite who thoroughly deserves his success and our praise. Jamie Russell, Housemaster SH
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Oxbridge offers for Malvern College pupils
Left to right: Paulin Nusser (No.6), James Calderwood (OM No.1), Katharina Walla (No.8), Nancy John (No.4), Will Raby-Smith (SH), Lara Dalton (No.6)
Congratulations to six pupils at Malvern College who have received offers from Oxford or Cambridge this year. Applauding their success and determination Antony Clark, Headmaster, said: “These pupils have intellectual acumen, flair and focus and I am certain they will enjoy the challenge and stimulation associated with life at Oxford or Cambridge”. He added that there were also a large number of applicants to top American and European universities this year. The Headmaster reiterated his delight at the success of the Oxbridge applicants and wished them well for their examinations to be taken in the summer.
West Midlands Chemistry Schools’ Quiz Congratulations to the Chemistry quiz team consisting of Oscar Holroyd (No.2), Alex Tocher (No.5), Liza Rozenberg (No.6) and Ali Hawkins (No.4) who beat Shrewsbury School in the second round of the West Midlands Chemistry Schools’ Quiz. The team continued through to the final rounds at Birmingham University Chemistry Department on Tuesday 3rd March where they beat Sir Graham Balfour High School in the quarter final. Despite an excellent performance they lost in the semi-final to the eventual winners Camp Hill School for Boys. Well done to all the team and the teachers involved in accompanying the pupils and preparing them for the quiz. Dr Natalie Watson, Head of Chemistry
An introduction to Politics Early in December fourteen of us travelled to London to attend the A level Politics Conference where guest speakers each deliver a prepared speech and afterwards take questions from the floor. This year there were two thousand pupils from schools in the audience and this presented quite an opportunity for both Joe Hefferan (No.7) and me to ask what we felt was a challenging question of Tristram Hunt MP, Shadow Secretary for Education. Our question was about the leadership of Mr Hunt’s party and a perception that there is elitism within it. We were less satisfied however with the answer; though he deliberated for some time he didn’t address the question at all but gave a ‘politician’s’ response – that Labour was ‘for the many not the few’. Other speakers included: John Bercow MP, Speaker of the House of Commons; William Hague MP, a former Foreign Secretary and one-time Conservative Party leader; Nigel Farage MEP, leader of the UK Independence Party; Rachel Reeves MP, Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary; Alan Duncan MP, Conservative International Development Minister and Nadine Dorries MP, a rebellious Conservative backbencher. It was a very entertaining day and exciting to see this group of MPs in action. We were very interested to observe politicians who are from different parties and who hold radically different views about the way our country should be run, expressing their views on current issues. This conference was, for those who are considering studying Politics at university and being involved in politics as a future career, especially helpful and insightful. Robert Porter, Lower Sixth, School House
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Malvern View • Lent 2015
We continue to receive many requests from friends and relatives concerning those Malvernians who died during the Great War. As well as being able to provide photos and information about them, we have also received new information from their families, for which we are most grateful. We have also been contacted by a Brazilian pilot, asking about Malvernian connections, and we have learnt that Squadron Leader Eric Moxey G.C. (No.6, 1907–11, about whom I talked to the school at a full College Chapel last term, was actually born in Brazil and is regarded there as a great hero by the aviation fraternity. Most significant, in the term in which there has been the official opening of the new Razak Science Centre, we have been presented with a CV64 Cavity Magnetron by Captain S W Howick RN. The Magnetron was one of many such inventions worked on by the research scientists of Telecommunications & Radar Establishment during their time in residence at Malvern College (1942–46). Other advances made at the College by the research agency included H2S, Night Fighter Radar, submarine detection and ‘Window’, the device that foiled the German radar system. The magnetron has been placed in the Main Building in the South corridor, below the clock presented to the College by T.R.E. at the end of the Second World War.
From the Archivist
Magnetron for Malvern’s archives
Ian Quickfall, College Archivist
DofE Gold awarded by Prince Edward Left to right: Alice Paterson (OM No.4), Emily Humfress (OM No.3), Lottie Phipps (OM No.8), Maria Blyth (No.3), Annabelle von Moltke (OM No.3)
Maria Blyth (No.3) received her Duke of Edinburgh Gold award from Prince Edward at St James’s Palace in February. It was a very special occasion for Maria and her family, and a great opportunity to meet up with OMs also attending the ceremony to receive their Gold Awards from the Prince. Fiona Packham, Housemistress No.3
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That’s entertainment Twenty-eight members of our Sixth Form are now regularly visiting a care home for the elderly in Malvern as part of their Creativity, Action and Service commitments, or as part of their Duke of Edinburgh Award; some who visit are anticipating a career in medicine and hope that this experience will help give them greater insight. The wish to gain experience may have been the initial motivating force but all of the pupils are enjoying the visits. The visits have become so popular with the pupils that Dr Martin Harris has a waiting list of over 30 students and is trying to set up a link with a second care home.
Power in numbers Alex Bellos, best-selling author of two books with mathematics at their heart, visited Malvern in February to talk to pupils in two different age groups about some fascinating concepts associated with number. Younger pupils listened to an intriguing explanation of the evolution of number; why we have numbers in the first place and from where they came. Then he explored how we use numbers and what our capacity for retention of number is; he showed some amazing footage of chimpanzees using their mathematical memory and looked at how techniques in mental calculation are taught in Japan. In his talk to the Hundred and Sixth Form the author set about demonstrating the excitement of mathematical discovery. We all have a perception of number that can affect a range of choices we make every day. Numbers, says Alex, have certain magic and each new concept is an exciting discovery. He went on to examine Conway’s Game of Life, in which, following a very few basic rules, patterns emerge with life-like qualities that in turn can be used to solve many numerical problems, including that of the generation of all prime numbers. His talk gripped the audience for over an hour and a half, his ideas were inspirational and showed perfectly that from just a simple beginning, mathematical investigation can take the researcher to some very unexpected places. Chris Thomas, Head of Maths and Peter Gray, Maths
He says, “Our pupils have been putting on mini-concerts of music and poetry readings, helping with practical issues, such as reading letters and writing replies for those with partial sight, cataloguing the home’s library, and providing companionship to the residents, including those with various levels of Alzheimer’s and dementia. The residents and staff there are extremely grateful for our support. When I was with them on one visit just before Christmas, eight of our pupils did an impromptu Christmas carol sing-along for the residents, two of whom were in tears because of the beauty of the music. I can honestly say that I have never been prouder of our boys and girls.”
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Malvern View • Lent 2015
CVS Charity Ball: ‘Arabian Nights’ This wonderful evening of opulent costumes and entertainment was enjoyed by all and resulted in a £4,000 surplus that will be distributed between the charities currently supported by the School Council. Adam Hutsby, Deputy Head of the Sixth Form
The Little Princess Trust Two Malvern College pupils had a significant hair-cut on the first day of their Christmas holiday in support of the The Little Princess Trust that provides wigs made of real hair to boys and girls across the UK and Ireland who have lost their own hair through cancer treatment. Our girls, Isabella Dewe (No.8) and Verity Manning-Cox (No.4) raised nearly £1,000 for this very worthwhile cause. Well done, girls!
Zumba for life The FY was in for an energetic day in November when they embarked upon a vigorous 40-minute Zumba workout to raise money for the charity Lepra. The 98 pupils who participated raised a remarkable £3,604 that could save the lives of 144 leprosy sufferers. Every pupil in the year group contributed to this total but several raised over £100. Well done to all, this was a very good workout! Barbara Swart, Head of FY
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Confirmation in College Chapel In February ten candidates (two from The Downs Malvern, seven from the College and one from a local parish), were confirmed in College Chapel. The recently retired former Bishop of Hereford, the Rt Rev’d Anthony Priddis, presided at the service which was conducted with a sense of warmth and spiritual sensitivity and we thank Bishop Anthony for making the occasion so memorable. Br Andrew Law N.OCist, Chaplain of Malvern College
Hart General Knowledge Quiz winners 2014 No.2 claimed the title ‘Winners of the Hart General Knowledge Quiz 2014’, after a fiercely contested final in which only one point separated the two teams. Scoring 47 to School House’s 46, the No.2 team of Harvey Bennett, Oscar Holroyd, James Darby and Henry Forbes dislodged the reigning champions. Non-playing team captain Toby Strong (No.2) trained and supported his team (which obviously made all the difference) so deserves a bit of the glory too.
Malvern College: A 150th Anniversary Portrait by Roy Allen This history of Malvern College is full of personal reminiscences and entertaining anecdotes from pupils who attended the College, and Roy Allen’s meticulous research, drawing on a host of new sources, illustrates key aspects of the College’s history and its development up to the present day. For further information and details of how to order the book please contact us: Visit our website at www.malverncollege.org.uk/150thBook Email: bookorders@malcol.org Telephone: 01684 581681
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Malvern View • Lent 2015
Climbing in Snowdonia At the Leave-out weekend last term a group of ten hardy Senior Cadets climbed the hills of Snowdonia, scaling five Welsh hills of around 3,000ft, two by the more difficult routes – the North Face of Tryfan and Crib Goch (the north arête of Snowdon). These are the routes that Mallory and Irvine (not to mention Hillary) used to train on in preparation for their own Everest expeditions, so the pupils were treading in some very special footprints! The weather was kind and on the second day we were able to enjoy some really dramatic views across the impressive landscape. Jay Watts, Outdoor Pursuits
My flying scholarship Last half term holiday I had the opportunity to spend two weeks on an RAF flying course learning to fly a single-engine plane. My course was arranged through the Air Cadet Pilot Scheme, sponsored by the RAF and I was selected from the Malvern College RAF contingent, along with 180 other cadets from across the country, who would all receive flying training during the year. The commercial aviation company on Tayside, which has been responsible for training many RAF fighter and commercial airline pilots, runs this course for the RAF and they certainly made us work hard. We had at least two hours of flight each day and I learned how to operate the controls, first on the ground and then in the air. I learned to communicate with the ATC tower and, most importantly, how to land! Looking back to my gliding experience I remember that what most worried me then was the landing process. Now, arriving in Scotland I realised that I had somehow overcome that fear and on this flying course, as I got more practice at it, I felt my confidence grow. The highlights of the course? Hard for me to choose because it was all absolutely wonderful but I think that the training that I received that must be used in the event of a stall was the most exciting. This course was a fantastic experience! The training was very demanding as there is no compromising the high standards set for you and I found this really rewarding in the end. Now, I am most definitely determined to complete all the stages of the flying training in order to get my Private Pilot licence! Anna Yaudzemis, Upper Sixth, No.6
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Winter mountaineering – Scotland
To the summit of CairnGorm – twice!
At half term we set off with seven cadets, from the relative calm of Malvern, for the snow-capped heights of the Cairngorms – where the weather was predicted to be a little wintry. The Scotland Expedition is a challenge and one of the key events in the CCF timetable for cadets who have previously completed the first stages of their mountain training, usually in Snowdonia. We were billeted at Cameron Barracks in Inverness where the accommodation and food were far in excess of the cadets’ expectations of Army provision so we were off to a good start. On Saturday we made the first mountain with both cadets and staff rapidly learning new skills from our mountain guides. The tempo and challenges increased as the week went on and all of the cadets improved their skills at an impressive rate. Alex Tocher (No.5), Matt Calderwood (SH), Andrew Tudor (No.9) and Emma Wood (No.8), under the instruction of mountain guide Konrad Doyle made some spectacular ice climbs whilst Josh Cook (No.7), Aidan Baird (No.5) and Luc Gillard (No.1), under the guidance of Capt. Stephen Bates, Royal Marine, achieved some remarkable routes across long distances, gaining some notable summits. For the final two days of the expedition we moved the group to the east of Inverness to avoid the worst of the incoming weather and spent a relatively comfortable night in a bothy at the side of Loch Muick. The following morning team Doyle left early and pushed for the summit of Lochnagar making the ascent and decent look easy. Team ‘Royal Marines’ meanwhile pushed hard and fast, circumnavigating the Loch successfully to arrive ahead of time at the nominated pickup point. Scotland 2015 was a tremendous success and enjoyed by all. Credit goes to the cadets who took part. Our thanks go to the mountain guides who kept us safe and to Alastair Cook, Headmaster of The Downs Malvern and our staff Sonja Barber and Barry Brown who supported the cadets in their endeavours.
An unexpected opportunity to spend the February half term staying in Cameron Barracks and getting up at 06:30 every day to venture out into the cold Scottish mountain winds turned out to be the best week of my life to date. The highlight was the day I spent ice-climbing with a partner climber and mountain guide. The wind was spectacular and so was the face of snow-covered rock, blasted with ice: climbing that day was almost as frightening as it was thrilling. I learned how to employ some of the techniques we had been taught and to set up belay anchors on the mountain, as well as place and remove gear and use a rappel for the descent. With the other three climbers in my group and our enthusiastic Irish mountain guide, we reached the summit of CairnGorm twice and spent a day walking horizontally into winds that were gusting at 80mph. Together we stumbled through snow, between rocks and waist-high drifts on the quiet moorland: you could not have wiped the grins from our frozen faces! I didn’t once notice the backpack I took on the bothy trip (which almost outweighed me), or the heavy day-sack filled with survival kit; I was too busy admiring the snowy plateaus and huge black lakes, or laughing, singing and talking. Perhaps the best evening was at the bothy – one small room and attic on the edge of Lochnagar, adjacent to a big boarded-up house belonging to Prince Charles. We lit a fire and cooked before sitting down to a few rounds of cards followed by singing and then haggis – courtesy of Mr Nichols. We left with what we came with and then climbed another mountain... Thank you to Mr Nichols, Mr Cook, Mrs Barber and Mr Brown and also to our fantastic guides Basher and Konrad.
John Nichols, SSI, CCF Malvern College
Emma Wood, Lower Sixth, No.8
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OM Shooting Competition 2014 There was a historic outcome to this year’s Shooting Competition v the OMs when, for the first time in 15 years, the College CCF won the competition. The OMs were second and the College Rifle Club third.
Overall top shot was Mr Andrew Symonds (OM), Junior Top Gun was Philip Blesinger (No.7), CCF Top Gun was Matthew Guy (No.1) and Senior Top Gun was Hugh Beaumont (No.2).
No.9 retains the Beachcroft Shield Teams of six compete each year in the Inter-House Shooting Competition for the coveted Beachcroft Shield and this year the standard of shooting was particularly high. Darcy Wilson-Burgess (No.3) scored an exceptional 93/100 and Marie-Celine Gruenhagen (No.8) 94/100. The best male shot, and overall individual winner, was Sulaiyman Ahmad Fauzi (No.5) with a score of 95/100. In the team competition, No.9 were the overall winners with a score of 367/400, and they retain the trophy. No.5 were the runners-up with 345/400. Congratulations to captain George Eldridge and his No.9 team.
Articles by John Nichols, SSI Malvern College CCF
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Geography trip to Iceland At half term 31 pupils enjoyed a fantastic trip to Iceland. As soon as we touched down at Keflavik airport we were whisked off to the Blue Lagoon Spa to relax in the geothermal waters and steam rooms. If there is a better way of arriving in a new country I have yet to experience it! The rest of the trip was a whirlwind of experiences that were designed to give a flavour of the country. We visited a geothermal power station, ate eggs and bread cooked in geothermal pools, walked on a glacier, crawled through lava tubes and walked on a beach in winds the like of which I had never experienced. The weather lived up to the country’s reputation and for most of our visit the land was shrouded in a blanket of snow. Accessing some of the more spectacular waterfalls was therefore a challenge, but this made for a most authentic Icelandic experience! Each evening finished with a roundup of the day’s events where the elements of geography we had experienced could be discussed. This was a vital part of the trip and allowed those studying for IGCSE, IB and A levels to apply what they had seen to their studies. Giles Hopkirk, Geography
Staff Profile: Jay Watts Outdoor Pursuits Instructor Jay joined Malvern College as our Outdoor Pursuits Instructor in September 2014. In a past life he spent some years backpacking around the world, making the most of the opportunity to travel. Once back in the UK, Jay split his time between the Lake District where he worked with disadvantaged youths in the outdoors, and his adopted home, the Isle of Man, where he instructed in a range of outdoor activities such as: sea-kayaking, coasteering and rock-climbing. Working at Malvern College Jay leads the busy Outdoor Pursuits programme overseeing climbing, mountainbiking, canoeing, kayaking, kayak polo, mountain-walking and team-building. He also helps to run Duke of Edinburgh & Combined Cadet Force trips throughout the year. Jay is engaged to Charlie, a Primary School teacher; they have a new puppy Tia, and a rescue cat Sooty. LIKES: Being outside and covered in mud! DISLIKES: Being inside and wearing a suit!
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The Christmas Concert The Christmas Concert is one of the highlights in the calendar and a showcase event for our musicians. With our new Director of Music at the helm, over 200 pupils performed in a thrilling evening of performances, to a capacity crowd in Big School. The Concert Band, conducted by Mr Edward Swindell, opened the concert with a popular trio of pieces, which included the film theme from the recent motion picture, How to Train Your Dragon II. Our Orchestra and Chamber Orchestra, under the direction of Head of Strings, Mr Stephen McDade, produced a beautiful and sophisticated repertoire of Bartók, Respighi and Grieg.
The winning Houses performed their songs from the InterHouse Singing competition and the popular Jazz Band got our feet tapping, to Flashdance – What a feeling as well as to Cezar Rugasira’s (SH) composition of Blues. This year, for the first time, the 120-strong Chapel Choir joined the Chamber Choir on stage to sing two pieces, Haydn’s Insanae et vane curae and Rutter’s (Arr.) Sans Day Carol – the combined sound was absolutely overwhelming. O come, all ye faithful brought the evening to a resounding and high-spirited close.
Tash’s recognised by ‘BBC Introducing’ Tash Bishop (No.4), a regular performer at the College’s Plugged and Unplugged Concerts, has been recognised by ‘BBC Introducing’ which brings together all of the BBC’s supporters of undiscovered and unsigned music. Her recently written composition Seletric has been placed on playlists on BBC Radio Hereford and Worcester, BBC Gloucester and BBC Wiltshire. Tash is studying music at Malvern and sings alto in both Chapel and Chamber choirs. She intends to pursue her musical career when she leaves Malvern at the end of this year and has been offered a place to study Popular Music at Leeds. She has also been called to audition at the internationallyrenowned LIPA (Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts). We are immensely proud of this talented young songstress and composer and wish her the best of luck with her career!
Articles by Rhian Grundy, Head of Contemporary & Popular Music
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Community and Informal concerts This has been a busy time in the Music department in which we have hosted two full concerts at Malvern College. The first, the Community lunchtime concert, is popular with many of our neighbours who bring their lunch along to hear a series of performances at St Edmund’s Hall. The second was the Informal Concert, in which 17 of the 34 pupils performing gave individual performances. The repertoire included some lively Spanish pieces from the Cello Club and the Made up March from the 11-pupil Percussion Ensemble. All of the performers were of Grade 5 standard and above, and the concert was one of the most memorable in the series. Rhian Grundy, Head of Contemporary & Popular Music
Lunchbox concert at Great Malvern Priory Great Malvern Priory is an ideal setting for musicmaking and creates a wonderful atmosphere at the lunchtime recitals that have now become a permanent feature of the Priory calendar. Malvern College’s musicians were invited to take part in the Lunchbox series this term and their concert featured a range of performances from the Jazz Band conducted by Mr Swindell, to individual performances by Selina Yogeshwar (No.6), who sang the aria Durch Zärtlichkeit und Schmeicheln from the opera The Abduction from the Seraglio by Mozart. The new, pupil-led vocal group made its debut at this Lunchbox performance treating the audience to a sublime rendition of Mozart’s Ave Verum, in which they were accompanied by Mr Brown. Charlie Tuengerthal’s (No.6) performance of Debussy’s Clair de Lune, showed musicality of the highest calibre. This was a fabulous concert that pupils and the public greatly enjoyed. Jonathan Brown, Director of Music
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Malvern View • Lent 2015
Unplugged Concert Plugged/Unplugged Concerts have really gathered momentum in the two years that we have been staging these events. Our latest concert in January was our biggest ever! A staggering selection of 18 performances announced the arrival of the New Year in grand style, each performance drawing the audience in, as the musicians performed their
own style of music with passion. The popular performances had the community audience of parents, teachers, support staff and pupils singing and torch-waving and it was great to see the self-penned performances growing in popularity, demonstrating a real depth of both creativity and musicality. In this concert there were original compositions by Maggie Wong (No.6), Claud Letts (SH) and Tash Bishop (No.4). Very well done to them all! We are used to a fantastic atmosphere and a sell-out crowd in our own Rogers Theatre – we may now have to think about moving to the Malvern Theatres!
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Trip to the Cabinet War Rooms ‘This better be worth it!’ I thought as I heaved myself out of bed at 6:45am in order to make it to the bus. It was a dismal winter’s morning in January and a group of us, admittedly Churchill enthusiasts, were making a considerable sacrifice of hard earned sleep in order to visit the famous Cabinet War Rooms in London. Emboldened by a packed lunch near Horse Guards Parade and a nod to the great man’s statue on Parliament Square, we entered the subterranean world below the offices of Whitehall. And stepping back to 1940, the sense of Churchill’s presence was tangible as we explored the labyrinth of offices and meeting rooms, complete with maps, pin boards, pipes and treasury tags (definitely no paper clips by order of Churchill). Perhaps the most intriguing room was a loo used by Churchill that was ‘permanently occupied’ according to the sign on the door. It was in fact a private phone booth where he could talk to other war leaders. The museum attached to the War Rooms also proved a profitable hunting ground for little known facts. We discovered that Sir Winston Churchill was the creator and wearer of the first ‘onesie’ (in this case velvet boiler suits in various vivid purples), that he did a very convincing gorilla impression and that he was the first individual ever to be acknowledged as an honorary citizen of the US. It was a truly eye-opening experience and left us with the impression that this man was a magisterial conductor of operations on the grandest of scale during a critical moment in our history. Toni Adejuyigbe, Lower Sixth, School House
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ART
Claudia Cascón Pulido (No.8) has used the word ‘metamorphosis’ as inspiration for her vessel which is a merging of the Classical style of ceramic pots with a modern, graffiti twist to its decoration. Cathi Penter, Art
Angie Hughes, on textiles Pupils in the Remove year studying Textiles have recently started working with local artist Angie Hughes, a textiles artist from Ledbury. Angie began her classes this term by showing pupils her own work and what had influenced her. Her plan, in the series of classes she will give, is to demonstrate techniques that can be used on textiles and to allow the pupils to research and experiment with different techniques before embarking upon their own personal responses to her work. For more information on Angie Hughes visit: www. angiehughes.com Vanessa Young, Design and Technology
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A 150th year of celebration Malvern College is staging a year of celebrations to mark its 150th Anniversary and has already held a number of events in Malvern. At the same time OMs abroad have held reunions in Sydney, Australia and South Africa with more to come in New York, Germany, China and Singapore. This anniversary is great cause for celebration; the school is in excellent shape and has an exciting future in prospect.
‘Malvern College: A 150th Anniversary Portrait’ by Roy Allen – Book Launch Author Roy Allen was Head of History at Malvern and at the heart of College life for three decades. He has compiled a wonderful set of anecdotes and reminiscences that bring the school’s history to life. ‘I thoroughly enjoyed reading the book, it is a marvellous work providing a very astute portrait of the school that not only analyses very sharply its highs and lows and its key developments, but also describes, in a highly entertaining and colourful fashion, the character of the school and the interaction between its pupils, teachers and the physical environment. There is nothing dull about this school history and, in addition, the book contains scores of magnificent images which vividly illustrate the wonderful story it tells.’ Joe Gauci, Deputy Head: Academic, History The book was launched in the first week of Malvern’s 150th anniversary year with a reception and a series of inspired readings from it given by actor Ian Lindsay, who is closely linked with the College as the son of the former Headmaster
Donald Lindsay (1953 – 71). Ian Lindsay has had a long and distinguished career in the theatre performing at the RSC, the Barbican and the Bristol Old Vic, and on television in productions such as: Brendon Cryer in ‘Doctors’, Uncle Bert in ‘Coronation Street’, Bernard Gadd in ‘Peak Practice’, Mr Collis in ‘Hornblower’ and George in ‘Men Behaving Badly’.
See page 7 of this publication for details of how to purchase the book.
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Images of Sport: Malvern 1865 – 2015 The gathering together of this series of electronic images of sport and sporting connections with Malvern College represents something of a miracle. Sometimes old images are lost or they just are not available; sources are variable and disparate. In this collection however, we are fortunate to have been able to assemble nearly 100 significant images that represent the range of sports played at Malvern, as well as the sporting events that have taken place here over the past 150 years. There are also images of the personalities associated with sport over the years and images that capture the facilities for sport provided over the period. Much of this collection was retrieved from the Malvern College archives during the research for the 150th Anniversary book ‘Malvern College: An Anniversary Portrait’, but photographs have also come from private collections. There was not enough space to include all the images in the recent history of the school so here is a chance to see more of them. The exhibition ‘Images of Sport: Malvern 1865–2015’, a window on our sporting past, is mounted at the College’s Sports Complex. Please do come and see it.
Indoor Hockey tournament Malvern College hosted a lively indoor hockey tournament to celebrate its 150th anniversary where the four schools competing were Bromsgrove School, Repton School, Cheltenham College and Malvern College. Every match was hard-fought producing some very impressive hockey indeed. The match of the day was played between Malvern and Repton, resulting in a thrilling 5–5 draw with Malvern converting a penalty corner just after time. The tournament winner, on goal difference, by just one goal from Malvern, was Repton with both schools finishing on 7 points. Cheltenham scored 3 points from their games and Bromsgrove 0. Malvern’s Hebe Vosper-Brown (No.3) was awarded Player of the Tournament and Tony Henman, Old Malvernian, England hockey veteran, and father of two more OMs, made the awards. Mark Moss, Head Coach: Hockey
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Thanksgiving Service A Service of Thanksgiving was held at Great Malvern Priory at the end of January to mark the 150th anniversary of the College’s foundation. The preacher was The Rt Rev’d Dr John Inge, Bishop of Worcester and the College’s Visitor. The service was introduced by The Rev’d John Barr, Vicar of Great Malvern Priory. The Lord Lieutenant of Worcestershire, Colonel Patrick Holcroft and his wife, Mrs Annie Holcroft were guests of honour and they were joined by Lord MacLaurin, Chairman of the College Council, Lady MacLaurin and Harriet Baldwin, MP for West Worcestershire. The Chamber Choir and Chapel Choir sang a selection of anthems including a new setting of Psalm 121, Levavi Oculos, composed by Edward Nesbit (No.5, 99–04) and a new verse for the School Song was included, composed in Latin by current pupils. The readings reflected the College’s life over its history: an extract from the autobiography of Reginald Kennedy-Cox who developed the College’s mission in London’s East End; a reading from The Fosters of Malvern, recounting the exploits
of the sporting family who graced College, County and International grounds with their cricketing prowess; some words of C.S. Lewis (OM), St Paul’s letter to the Colossians, and a part of a sermon of John Winthrop from 1630 delivered as he approached what would become New England completed the readings. Prayers were read in languages to reflect the College’s cultural diversity. English, representing Australia and Oceania; German for Europe; Spanish for the Americas; Yoruba representing Africa and Mandarin, representing Asia. The Headmaster also read the Commemoration of Founders, which is used at the annual Service of Commemoration. In celebrating the achievements of the College’s past, the congregation was invited also to look forward; at home in Malvern, the community was invited to celebrate its breadth and international diversity. Br Andrew Law N.OCist, Chaplain of Malvern College
Pupils with the Chairman of Council Lord MacLaurin and Headmaster Antony Clark.
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‘The Brain, a most unusual instrument, and a career in Medicine’ – Dr Angus Kennedy It was very appropriate that one of John Lewis’ top College scientists of the 1970s, Dr Angus Kennedy (No.3, 75–80), gave the first in a series of OM lectures in the new Lewis Lecture Theatre on Monday 9th February. Angus is the Clinical Lead for Neurology at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital in London, where he specialises in dementia encompassing Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and stroke. The Lewis Lecture Theatre was full with staff, pupils, parents and visitors for this inaugural lecture. Angus said that he was inspired by the science teaching at the College under John Lewis’ leadership and that this is what began his medical studies and his highly distinguished medical career. He spoke of his interests in the theatre, teaching and skiing, and about his memories of No.3, under Mike and Suse Harvey’s leadership, with Roy Allen as a wonderful tutor and mentor. Angus went on to talk about his work with dementia patients and about some of the latest research in this increasingly important area of medicine, as the population lives ever longer. After his talk Angus answered many questions from the audience and from pupils interested in a medical career themselves.
‘From Malvern to Moscow: Life as a Historian, Columnist and BBC Presenter’ – Dominic Sandbrook In the second of a series of OM lectures to celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the College, Dominic Sandbrook (No.1, 88–93) gave a most compelling account of his career as an academic historian, author, columnist and TV presenter. His talk was wonderfully crafted and delivered and the Lewis Lecture Theatre was full with an audience of OMs, members of Common Room, parents, pupils and friends of the College. Here was an outstanding academic demonstrating his wonderful ability to communicate and to deliver his thoughts and opinions in a manner that was accessible to all. What a skill that is!
Articles by Syd Hill, Secretary, Malvernian Society
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OM triangular Football tournament Old but very friendly rivalries were reignited on the Senior Football pitch at the Court Road Playing Fields when the Old Malvernians, Old Reptonians and Old Salopians played matches at 1st XI and Vets (over-35) levels on a fine but chilly day. These three schools have been playing each other at football for well over 100 years. There was a good crowd of supporters and all were well entertained. The crowd included the College’s highly successful Girls’ 1st XI, who were down at the pitches training for the ISFA Cup semifinal against Oakham. Richard Wilson, the Chairman of the Malvernian Society, refereed both matches and was assisted by Guy Ralphs (OR and Bursar of Malvern College) as Referee’s Assistant. The Old Reptonians won the day on the pitch and we all wish them well in their imminent match against Lancing Old Boys in the semi-final of the Arthur Dunn Cup. The day was rounded off by a celebratory supper in the Gryphon Room with much reminiscing and good camaraderie, speeches from each side emphasising the value of the sporting links between the schools, and presentations to the star players of the day. Syd Hill, Secretary of the Malvernian Society
Tree of Life Exhibition We are lucky to be able to display the wonderful Tree of Life exhibition in the College’s new Razak Science Centre. The exhibition, supported by the British Heart Foundation, embraces an extensive range of artwork designed to illustrate the importance and the beauty of the heart and its blood supply. Dr Geoffrey Farrer-Brown (No.4, 47–53) has drawn on the talents of a large group of artists to express the message that in damaging the body’s complicated biological mechanisms we risk the disruption of a unique physiology. Dr Farrer-Brown envisages the role of the exhibition to be in preventative medicine, particularly in relation to the prevention of smoking. “In a life of 70 years your heart will beat over two billion times. The aim of this Tree of Life exhibition is to help the viewer understand the importance of the heart and its blood supply, the anatomy of the blood supply, the structure, power and stamina of the heart muscle, the importance of normal blood flow and the damage caused to muscle by diminished blood flow resulting from coronary artery disease.“ The art works include mosaic, wood sculpture, ceramic bowls, patchwork quilt, glass works, enamel, woodcut print, metal work, watercolour paintings, oil paintings, mixed media work, prints, stone sculpture and fibre-optic lights. Visitors can contact Malvern College on 01684 581 500 to arrange to view the exhibition.
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The opening of the new Razak Science Centre Malvern College opened its new Razak Science Centre on the 26th January, a day after celebrating the 150th anniversary of the foundation of the school. The impressive new development was officially opened by the Prime Minister of Malaysia, The Honourable Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib bin Tun Haji Abdul Razak (No.2, 68–71), and the building is named in his honour. The Prime Minister gave a speech at the opening and toured the campus with Headmaster Antony Clark and other senior staff. He was delighted to have lunch at his old house, No.2, and to catch up with his contemporaries at Malvern. The Prime Minister was accompanied by his brother Dato’ Johari Razak (No.2, 69–72) who was also a former pupil at Malvern. Malvern’s new science development has cutting-edge facilities and will ensure that Malvern College continues to develop the teaching of science as a critically important aspect of the curriculum. The Science Centre has been completely refurbished and a new lecture theatre has been added. The lecture theatre is named after a former Head of Science, John Lewis, who was jointly responsible for the advent of Nuffield Science in the 1960s. The Razak Science Centre also includes the Symondson Chemistry Laboratory, a new showcase lab that includes a viewing panel so that visitors to the facility will be able to see any lessons in progress. Antony Clark, Headmaster, said, “We were incredibly privileged to have Prime Minister Najib here to mark the opening of the Razak Science Centre and are proud to be able to count such a distinguished personality as one of our alumni. With the ever-increasing importance of science and technology in everyday life, it is vital that Malvern inspires its
pupils to be great minds of the future. We are very grateful for the generous gifts from all our donors, which made building the Razak Science Centre possible.”
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A SERIES OF OM MASTERCLASSES
Simon Purcell: Jazz Our season of Music Masterclasses to celebrate the 150th Anniversary began in style with a two-hour clinic led by Simon Purcell (No.7, 72–77), one of the UK’s most accomplished contemporary Jazz pianists and Head of Jazz at Trinity-Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance (London). Mr Purcell tutored several pupils individually during the afternoon and then our College Jazz Band, under the baton of Head of Woodwind and Brass, Mr Edward Swindell, got the final session underway with Booker T and the MGs’ Green Onions and The Zutons Valerie, Tash Bishop (No.4) the lead vocal). What followed was a thoroughly engaging Masterclass in which Mr Purcell worked with the musicians to inspire their further performances. He worked on the range of subtle
nuances at the disposal of the Jazz musician and gave them some first-class pointers on Jazz improvisation and Blues. His expertise and critical direction transformed the final performances, much to the delight of the performers and the niche audience of pupils, parents, staff and jazz enthusiasts who attended. This was an inspiring session and one that pupils benefited from enormously. Carla Schröder (No.6), a pupil in the Lower Sixth said: “As I had never played any jazz on the piano before, I was nervous but when we started to improvise on the basic idea of Keith Jarrett’s Cologne concert, I was thrilled. Mr Purcell inspired and motivated me to continue playing jazz in the future.”
Michael Laird: Brass Michael Laird (No.1, 56–60), virtuoso trumpeter, led the second in our series of Music Masterclasses. Mr Laird has worked with the English Chamber Orchestra and The Academy of St Martinin-the-Fields and captivated us as he passed on his knowledge and experience to the pupils. An expert in early music, Mr Laird opened the session by tutoring our Brass Ensemble: Will Raby-Smith (SH), Matthew Guy (No.1), Charlie Bijl (No.2) and James Zhao (No.7), in a performance of Gabrieli’s Canzon Seconda, and he gave some first-class pointers to Lydia Westwood (No.8) in the performance of Handel’s Let the Bright Seraphim, in which she was accompanied by Will Raby-Smith on the piccolo trot. The audience was thrilled by the solo performances of Charlie Bijl, playing the first movement of Hummel’s Trumpet Concerto, and Matthew Guy playing the first movement of Haydn’s Trumpet Concerto, both boys benefitting enormously from the subtle nuances suggested by Mr Laird. At the end of the session Mr Laird performed the second movement of Haydn’s Trumpet Concerto in spectacular style, on an original keyed trumpet. This was a feast for our eyes and ears! To close, all of our trumpet players, including Kitty Holroyd from Year 6 at The Downs Malvern, joined Mr Laird in the superb delivery of The Life Guards Fanfare (Household Regiment) transcribed by Crispin Steel-Perkins, on natural trumpets.
Articles by Mrs Rhian Grundy, Head of Contemporary & Popular Music
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Quentin Hayes: Voice
The performers were: Lydia Westwood (No.8): Sweeter than Roses (Purcell) Matthew Guy (No.1): Se Vuol Ballere (Mozart) Celine Flowers (EH): Orpheus with his Lute (Sullivan) Tash Bishop (No.4): O mio babbino caro (Puccini) Justin Luk (SH): The Vagabond (Vaughan Williams) Cezar Rugasira (SH): O del mio dolce ardor (Gluck) Chloe Underwood (No.4): Mon Coeur s’ouvre t’aime (SaintSaëns) The final musical Masterclass in the series of three was led by Quentin Hayes (No.5, 72–76) who directed seven of our top singers in an engaging two hours of singing. The audience was fascinated to be present to experience the exchange between these pupils and Quentin, a world-renowned opera singer who is currently engaged in a production at Covent Garden. Quentin coached each pupil individually and used his amazing stage presence to demonstrate how to approach each section of the music and, in the operatic pieces, how to enact the part. We all enjoyed the sense of drama that began to develop between each of the performers and this very experienced soloist.
World Book Day Costa short-listed author Martyn Bedford visited Malvern College over two days to celebrate World Book Day on Thursday 5th March. The visit began on 4th March with a creative writing workshop for pupils and in the evening Martyn gave a talk on his life as a writer. The author announced the winners of the ‘Hand of History’ short story competition in Chapel on the morning of World Book Day and congratulated Serena Smith (EH) whom he placed first. Carla Walla (No.8) was placed second and Tara Hollis (No.4) third. Throughout the day Martyn held a number of workshops for the FY and Pre-Sixth and at break time, he spent time chatting with pupils and staff and signed his books ‘Flip’ and ‘Never Ending’. Martyn’s story ‘Room Zero’, commissioned for the College’s 150th anniversary, was published throughout the week in instalments. This story proved very popular with the pupils, leading to numerous enquiries about the location of Room Zero. Read the story on the 150th section of the website to find out!
Helen Jones, Librarian
Each had prepared a piece to sing, firstly for the audience, then again for Quentin to deconstruct. Each singer was accompanied by Mr Malcolm Forbes-Peckham on the piano, one of our visiting music teachers and himself a Masters graduate of the RNCM. Once the Masterclass had ended, performers and members of the audience had an opportunity to discuss informally more general aspects of singing with Quentin over some light refreshments. Quentin Hayes will return to Malvern in the future to work with the Choir and Chamber Choir and we very much look forward to this. Rhian Grundy, Head of Contemporary & Popular Music
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Dining at the House of Lords The Lord MacLaurin of Knebworth DL, Chairman of Malvern College Council, arranged for OMs, Parents and Friends of the College to spend a memorable evening in one of the world’s most iconic settings, the Houses of Parliament. Many guests were conducted on an informative guided tour of Parliament, which started in Westminster Hall and included highlights such as St Stephen’s Hall and Chapel Cloister, the Central Lobby and the House of Commons and House of Lords Chambers. This was followed by pre-dinner drinks on the Terrace and the chance to enjoy the evening panorama across the Thames to the London Eye. Guests were welcomed by Lord MacLaurin and enjoyed dinner in the Cholmondeley Room, followed by an entertaining ‘Toast to Malvern College’ by Timothy Straker (No.3, 68–72), QC, a member of the College Council. Tim is an Old Malvernian and the nephew, brother and father of Old Malvernians. This was a very special and unforgettable event that gave guests the perfect opportunity to celebrate Malvern’s 150th years.
Malvern College 150th news supplement
Malvern
College
Malvern College celebrates 150 years Malvern College celebrates 150 years
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Weddings Advert
A summary of some of the salient points in Malvern College history is contained in a special 150th supplement that was included in the Malvern Gazette and Ledbury Reporter in January. Malvern College opened its doors on 25th January 1865 with just 24 boys, confident that it would eventually make a school of over 500. The supplement features the origins of the school, the tragic loss of so many young Malvernians in the Great War, the two evacuations – to Blenheim and then to Harrow, and the celebration of the school’s Centenary in 1965. A time-line of interesting historical facts lists, among other detail, the contribution of the Foster family to sport, the building of the first Morgan motor car in the workshops at Malvern, the Nobel prizewinners and CS Lewis’s (SH, 13–14) attendance at Malvern College. The pages also describe the research work of the Telecommunications and Radar Establishment (TRE) on the development of Radar which was carried out in secret on the Malvern College campus from 1942 to 1946. These advances would prove to be critical to the war effort and prompted a Royal visit by HRH King George VI with HRH Queen Elizabeth in 1944, a visit that the Queen Mother, returning to Malvern College at the Centenary in 1965, never forgot. Today the modern school is one of the leading independent schools of its kind in the UK. It keeps its traditional values but plans for the future, recently opening a newly remodelled Razak Science Centre. The school has embraced a willingness to adapt to the requirements of a changing world: testament to the survival, success and advancement of a great school.
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‘Familiar Compound Ghosts’ by Tim Newsholme On Tuesday 3rd March a specially commissioned painting for the 150th Anniversary by artist Tim Newsholme, Director of Art at Malvern College, was unveiled. The painting has its iconographic roots in Eliot’s poetry – “Time past and time present are perhaps present in time future” (Burnt Norton). The painting is a dreamscape concerned with the complexities of the merging of different times.
150th events to come 20 April 2015 23–24 April 2015 29 April 2015 30 April 2015 5 May 2015 2 June & 9 June 2015 5 June 2015 4 July 2015
OM lecture: Ahmed Rashid in London Henry V by William Shakespeare Choral Evensong at Tewkesbury Abbey Anniversary Cricket match v Repton Reception at the House of Lords The Magic of Science (event for Prep and Primary schools) Evening Reception at Blenheim Palace 150th Anniversary Ball
For more information or to apply for tickets please see www.malverncollege150.org.uk
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Malvern View • Lent 2015
‘Jane Eyre’ by Charlotte Brontë, adapted for the stage by Willis Hall Set on the Yorkshire moors, this year’s Senior Play, ‘Jane Eyre’, told of romance, duty and passion and a sense of the sinister and unknown with which it is underscored throughout the play. Brontë’s gothic romance drew actors from the Lower Sixth and Hundred year groups and was presented in three performances at the Rogers Theatre in November. Rebecca Gray (EH) as Jane barely left the stage. Her performance of the eponymous Victorian heroine was outstanding and equally impressive was the performance of Matthew Guy (No.1) as Mr Rochester who played the role with maturity beyond his years. Against the backdrop of a minimalist stage setting and with meticulous costume design, and good use of atmospheric sound and lighting, the cast etched in the glorious palette of Brontë’s moving story. This was a very polished and professional performance. Bravo! Keith Packham, Director of Drama
HOUSE LIFE HOUSE LIFE HOUSE LIFE HOUSE LIFE HOUSE LIFE
Celebrating 150 years, in No.4 The girls in No.4 enjoyed their celebratory lunch and reading about the school’s founding in extracts taken from Roy Allen’s book about the history of the school. “I think the original founders and benefactors of the school would have been proud to see how we spent the day,” said Housemistress Anne Sharp. “Many of the No.4 girls were involved in the Choir that sang an anthem especially written for the occasion by Ed Nesbit.”
HOUSE LIFE HOUSE LIFE HOUSE LIFE HOUSE LIFE HOUSE LIFE
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‘Noughts & Crosses’ by Malorie Blackman, adapted by Dominic Cooke A very talented group of 30 Remove pupils presented this much-loved tale of a society divided by race and wealth. Dominic Cooke’s stage adaptation tells the story of Sephy and Callum, childhood friends who come from two very different worlds. The play deals with some serious issues seen through the eyes of the young protagonists; racial segregation, terrorism and capital punishment to name a few. The world is divided into black and white: into Noughts and Crosses. There are no grey spaces in between. Lauren Maxey (No.3) is Sephy, and Angus Good (SH), Callum who struggles with his role as peacemaker in a world of prejudice. These two young actors really impressed us
with the presentation and development of their relationship on stage. The audience were drawn in by their emerging romance and their ability to deal with difficult emotions as their story reached its tragic conclusion. They were superbly supported by a cast that gave an excellent performance throughout. Directed by Rosalind Lawton, Drama Assistant, these young actors created a sensitive, polished and emotionally charged performance that really examined the themes of prejudice, racism and love. Keith Packham, Director of Drama
HOUSE LIFE HOUSE LIFE HOUSE LIFE HOUSE LIFE HOUSE LIFE
No.1’s 150th celebratory lunch After the Thanksgiving Service at the Malvern Priory all the Houses celebrated in style with a sumptuous lunch. In House No.1, Housemaster Adam Wharton gave a speech in praise of the wonderful friendships that have come about as a result of the bonds formed between Malvernians whilst they were at school.
HOUSE LIFE HOUSE LIFE HOUSE LIFE HOUSE LIFE HOUSE LIFE
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Malvern View • Lent 2015
School House
House Drama Competition 2015 The House Play Competition is one of Malvern’s great traditions. It is no mean feat to put on a production that involves such a wide range of skills, from the choosing of a play and editing it to organising rehearsals, props, music, lighting and finally performing it in front of one’s peers and parents. This year the competition opened with a splendid adaptation of ‘The Wizard of Oz’ by No.2 that set the standard to beat. This was followed by EH whose production entitled ‘Nine Ways To Survive The Zombie Apocalypse’ certainly had its good moments. No.9 put on a version of Blackadder ‘Bells’ which included tremendous lines and some eye wateringly well-delivered kicks. No.6’s production was an adaptation of ‘Saving Nemo’, with Nemo and his father wearing orange jump suits to portray the colour of Clown fish. Saturday night opened with SH’s interpretation of ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’. The actors kept the audience spellbound, especially during the captivating court scene. There was almost as much action off stage in No.8’s version of the American TV sitcom ‘Friends’ as there was on stage. And the third drama, in what turned out to be an American evening, came with No.7’s highly entertaining adaptation of ‘Star Wars’. No.8
Sunday night opened with No.4’s super slick and sassy portrayal of ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’. No.1 put on their best performance for years with a rip-roaring rendering of ‘Hercules’, which was delivered with bags of energy. No.3’s version of ‘The Belles of St Trinians’ was a performance with attitude, a large cast, good costumes and a great pantomime horse. The evening ended with No.5’s witty adaptation of ‘The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe’. Martin Frayn, House Play Competition Adjudicator Ellerslie House
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No.3
No.7
No.5
No.4
No.6
No.2
No.1
No.9
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Malvern View • Lent 2015
Malvern celebrates the 2015 Culturama Culturama is one of Malvern’s social highlights and is our biennial celebration of the nations represented in the pupil body. The exhibition, held in the evening in St Edmund’s Hall, involves a wonderful display of food, national dress and music from all over the world and is a real gem in the College calendar. We thank all of those who took part and the members of staff who supported them.
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Mark Pougatch OM is ITV’s new lead football presenter Former Malvern pupil Mark Pougatch (No.2, 81–86) took over as ITV’s lead football presenter in mid February making his debut appearance for the Paris St Germain match. Mark was a top sportsman for the College, playing in both the 1st XI Football team as a prolific striker, and a batsman for the 1st XI Cricket team which he captained. He gained his school colours in both sports, and highlights of his school football playing career include a hat-trick in a 6–2 win away match at Eton and scoring one of the two goals that enabled the College to win against Manchester Grammar School (2–1). At school his ambition was to join the Test Match Special (TMS) team; he could think of nothing better than to commentate on cricket all summer long. As a freelance journalist he has worked for the BBC covering a range of sporting events besides football including the Olympic and Commonwealth Games, tennis at Wimbledon, boxing bouts and England cricket at home and abroad. Syd Hill, former Master i/c Football
Guy Disney OM
Guy Disney with Syd Hill OM Secretary, on his last visit to Malvern
Guy Disney (No.2, 95–00) formerly a captain in the British Army, made racing history in February when he became the first jockey with an artificial leg to ride over fences in a race in Britain. The Royal Artillery Gold Cup is a race that has been staged for 150 years, and at Sandown Park on 13th February, Guy Disney finished third on 11–2 chance Ballyallia Main for trainer Tom George, gaining a place and altering the record books. Guy lost the lower part of his right leg in Southern Helmand, Afghanistan in July 2009 and after the amputation, in 2011, he took part in the Walking with the Wounded expedition to the North Pole. Patron of this expedition and the following gruelling trek to the South Pole in 2013 was HRH Prince Harry who trekked much of the distance with them. On leaving the Army, and with these major successes behind him, Guy chose to return to horse racing, something that put him into the national news several years ago. Now, as a jump jockey, he has surmounted yet another barrier to achievement, demonstrating how much can be accomplished with the application of courage and determination.
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Malvern View • Lent 2015
‘Defying Gravity’
Science Photography Competition 2014 The seventh year of the competition yielded some very sophisticated images and more than 150 entries. Photographers were encouraged to think carefully about their subject matter and the composition of their images. They were also invited to use modern digital processing and editing techniques such as picture cropping and altering colours and shades to develop and improve their own ICT skills. The winning entry ‘InFAMOUS’ by Charlie Tuengerthal (No.6) is an unusual self-portrait that is both challenging and thought provoking. As a composition it was carefully planned and Charlie has created a photograph that has great merit from both a technical and an artistic perspective. Special congratulations also go to Solenne Spitalier (No.6) who contributed three entries that made the final shortlist.
Winning entry ‘InFAMOUS’ by Charlie Tuengerthal (No.6)
Highly commended ‘Defying Gravity’ by Anastasia Salnikow (EH) ‘The Beauty Of Flight’ by Anna Yaudzemis (No.6) ‘History In The Making’ by Anson Chan (No.7) ‘It’s Part Of It’ by Charlie Tuengerthal (No.6) ‘Get Your Nose Out Of My Business’ by Harry Morrow (No.7) ‘Old New Technology’ by Matthew Guy (No.1) ‘Tortoiseshell On White’ by Matthew Guy (No.1) ‘Climb’ by Solenne Spitalier (No.6) ‘Peace’ by Solenne Spitalier (No.6) ‘Reflexion’ by Solenne Spitalier (No.6) ‘Reflecting On Sri Lanka’ by William Forbes (No.1) ‘Malvern College Gryphon’ by Michael Burbeck (Staff) ‘Baby Ring-Tailed Lemur’ by Sophie Holroyd (Staff) ‘Hut Angles’ by Dan Eglin (Staff)
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‘InFAMOUS’
‘Peace’
‘Hut Angles’
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‘Malvern College Gryphon’
‘Climb’
‘History In The Making’
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‘Old New Technology’
‘Tortoiseshell On White’
‘Reflexion’
‘It’s Part of It’
‘Baby Ring-Tailed Lemur’
‘Climb’
‘Reflecting On Sri lanka’
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Malvern View • Lent 2015
Ferrets’ Race On a crisp autumn day with an overcast sky but with not a drop of rain, this year’s Ferrets’ Race was run in arguably perfect conditions! On the start line, with House pride at stake, spirits were soaring and each member of the Foundation Year looked fiercely determined. The quiet hum of fluttering hearts could be heard as the boys and girls awaited the starting claxon. And they were off! “It is a rite of passage for the FY to struggle round the Common in muddy conditions in the Ferrets’ Race”, said Housemistress of No.4 Anne Sharp. As predicted, this year proved to be a very competitive race with a strong FY cohort competing for both individual and House prizes. In a frantic finish, it was Freddie Ashworth (No.5) who crossed the line first, muddied from head to toe, in a time of 11 minutes and 22 seconds, very closely followed
by his Housemates Dylan Sillence and Oliver Millard (2nd and 3rd respectively). First home for the girls was Georgina Denham (No.6), who won the girls’ individual competition in a time of 11 minutes and 36 seconds. Soon after her came Ariana Davison (No.4) to claim 2nd place, followed by Alina Allison (No.8) who came 3rd. In the House competition No.5 was the outright winner for the boys and No.6 just stole the lead from No.4 to win for the girls. Every one of the runners competed with great pride and spirit for their respective Houses and despite the fact that a few trainers were lost to the mud, it was a fantastic afternoon. Jordan Nwachukwu, Teacher i/c Cross Country
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Left to right: Piers Morell, James Page, George Amphlett
Rugby news At the end of February, James Page (No.7), captain of the Malvern College 1st XV and a good prospect at Loose Head Prop, played for the Worcester Warriors Cavaliers (A team) in a match against The British Army. James is part of the Worcestershire Warriors Academy and will join them on a one-year full time contract when he finishes school at the end of this year. Both James and Piers Morrell (No.2) have been selected for the Midlands U18 Assessment squad, a great achievement for two boys who work extremely hard at their Rugby on and off the field.
George Amphlett (No.9) has also been selected into the U16 Midlands Assessment Squad. George, who plays Centre, is a firm starter in Malvern’s 1st XV, which for a pupil in the Hundred is a great achievement. George also represents the North Midlands and Worcester Warriors U16s and his strengths are his physicality, pace and committed attitude. All three have been outstanding in all of our fixtures this term and fully deserve these selections.
Pupils gain their Yellow Belts Black Dragon Mixed Martials Arts is run as a cocurricular activity at Malvern each week and we congratulate the following for successfully gaining their Yellow Belts: Holly Hobson (No.3), Georgia Rogers-Coltman (No.3), Lucy Davies (No.3), Clare Cocker (EH), Veda Baldota (EH) and Anna Drzeniek (No.3). The girls achieved their belts by demonstrating aspects of Muay Thai, Kick-Boxing and Jiu Jutsu through which they had learned discipline, selfcontrol and the ability to defend themselves in simulated combat situations. Dr Richard Corrigan, Martial Arts
Nick Tisdale, Master i/c Rugby
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Malvern View • Lent 2015
Cricket coaching in Abu Dhabi In a week of coaching in the UAE these lucky boys would learn a great deal about their own game and have the opportunity, with a wider skill set and increased confidence, to change the way they play to incorporate some of the tips of the trade. And what a great experience it would turn out to be. Based at the Zayed Stadium with our coaches Dominic Telo, ex-Cape Cobras and Derbyshire CCC, Callum Jackson (Sussex CCC), Richard Logan (Nottinghamshire CCC, Hampshire CCC) and Glen Querl (Hampshire CCC) much of the week was centred on game plans and how to put the plan into practice. The batters worked on hitting over the top and sweeping, and the bowlers at bowling at the death of an innings and at delivering the slower ball. Alongside us in the nets was Nottinghamshire CCC and our spinners were fortunate to have the chance to bowl at them for a bit too. The seamers also received an impromptu talk from Luke Fletcher, a Nottinghamshire opening bowler and one of the best endof-innings bowlers in the country. This all gave the boys an insight into how modern day cricketers approach the game. But it was not all cricket. The boys had worked exceptionally hard in very hot conditions so a trip to the Yas Water World was most welcome. Mid week we also visited the Grand Mosque to see its stunning architectural features and the largest carpet in the world! We also fitted in a bit of dune bashing – a real adrenalin rush, which the boys absolutely loved. A middle practice was the order of the day on Thursday which gave the boys the opportunity to put into practice the different aspects of the game which they had been working on. This was a tremendous exercise and highlighted the fact that cricket is a game that rests on confidence. Batting skill sessions and more match-based scenarios over the final two days would go a long way to aiding the growth in their confidence, allowing them to transfer their net play to the middle. Our 15 cricketers trained hard, were great company and wonderful representatives for Malvern College. Roll on the cricket season! Mark Hardinges, Master i/c Cricket
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Fencing: Eliza represents Great Britain Congratulations to Eliza Woodhouse (EH) who fenced in Copenhagen at the end of last term, representing Great Britain in the U17 women’s epée. She had a very good day, finishing 21st in an international field of 130 and was the first ranked British fencer in this event. In February Eliza went on to compete in the European Cadet Fencing Championships in Maribor, Slovenia where she was fencing for Team GB as well as in the individual epée event. The British team was placed 11th out of 23, and Eliza finished in 77th place individually out of 122. Next for Eliza will be the Commonwealth Cadet Fencing Championships in Cape Town, South Africa. Emma Brown, Housemistress Ellerslie House
U18 West Midlands Fencing Champion Clare Cocker (EH, Lower Sixth) came first in the British Youth Championships regional final and is West Midlands U18 Champion. This is a wonderful result for Clare who is looking forward to fencing in a national final for the first time in early May. Her commitment to fencing practice over the last few months is clearly paying off! Emma Brown, Housemistress Ellerslie House
Academy Player of the Year Alex Milton shines in Cape Town Alex Milton, Old Malvernian (5.2010 – 2014) and Worcestershire Academy’s Player of the Year for 2014, is currently wintering in Cape Town before taking up a summer contract with MCC Young Cricketers next season. In November he celebrated his maiden century for Claremont CC against the University of the Western Cape CC, one of Western Province’s Cricket Association top sides. With his team in deep trouble, following-on and 150 behind, (and facing a bowling attack that included former South African One Day International bowler, Charl Langeveldt) Alex made a defiant 129 from 180 balls, this as well as an unbeaten 59 to help get his side over the line against Kuils River CC. Things are looking good therefore, in South Africa. Mark Hardinges, Master i/c Cricket
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Malvern View • Lent 2015
Ladies’ Rackets British Open Chey West, Director of Girls’ Sport at Malvern, has recently won the first silverware of her Rackets career by winning the Ladies’ British Open Singles Plate Competition in February. She has been playing for a little over two years and has great promise. Chey won her first two games in her group convincingly before losing to eventual semi-finalist, Ella Gaskall, in the last of the group games. In the Plate final Chey beat Fay Dalby 15/6 15/4 in spectacular fashion playing some wonderfully executed ground strokes. “My goal was to improve upon my previous best position of eighth in the competition and therefore to finish well in this year’s tournament is really exciting for me.” said Chey. Chey next plays in the Ladies’ British Open Doubles coming up on the 22nd March at Malvern College, you would be unwise to bet against her! Tom Newman, Master i/c Rackets
Public Schools Singles Rackets Championships at Queen’s Unlucky with the draw this year, we were up against the seeded players very quickly so most of our competitors did not progress far. But Josh Haynes (No.5) and Will Annetts (No.9) were seeded in advance of the tournament at seven and six respectively, and they both played well but went out in the quarter finals to two very good players. No shame in this and it is all good experience for the Doubles competition in March. Tom Newman, Master i/c Rackets
England selection for Heather Heather Macdonald (No.3) was selected to play for the England ISFA U18 XI against Australian Schools in February. She is a key member of the Malvern College 1st XI Football squad, playing in central midfield, and was pivotal to the College’s European trophy success last term. “I’m delighted to see Heather’s talent and dedication recognised with national selection and wish her all the best for her England match in February”, said Joe Gauci, Teacher i/c Girls’ Football.
43 Will Annetts (No.9) and Josh Haynes (No.5) before the match.
The Prichard Racket 2014 This final, that determines the best Rackets player in the school, always brings a show of nerves and excitement to the Rackets fraternity and this year was no exception as Josh Haynes (No.5) and Will Annetts (No.9) did battle at the Ron Hughes Rackets Courts. Both boys are in the Hundred and both had beaten Sixth Formers in their respective semi-finals. It was, it seemed, a year for the youngsters. If the nerves were getting to the gallery, then they certainly got the better of Josh Haynes as the match began. Will raced to a 10–0 lead and then served five aces to wrap up the first game in the space of ten minutes. In the second, after levelling the game at 5 points each, Josh lost his hold on the game losing 15–5. It is not unheard of in this competition for there to be a fight-back in the third game, and this is what we saw now as play switched between the two players and the excitement mounted. Each point was fiercely contested and at 14–12, Josh had a game point. This was dealt with confidently by Will who then moved purposefully into the service box to serve out the match. 14–14 and set to 3. This was better and what the Prichard Racket is all about: control of the nerves and demonstration of strength of character. At 0–0 there were an incredible five changes of hand as neither boy was prepared
to give an inch. At the sixth time of asking however, Will served three wonderfully judged serves that Josh could not return. Game, set and match! Well, until next year. Tom Newman, Master i/c Rackets
Winner of the Prichard Racket 2014, Will Annetts (No.9).
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Malvern View • Lent 2015
Ben Twohig earns England Under 17s call-up Ben Twohig (Lower Sixth, No.2) is a promising leftarm spinner and has earned his first England Under 17s call-up. He is part of Worcestershire County Cricket Club’s Academy and, following a good summer with the county, he was selected to play in the England Development Programme (EDP) Under 17 squad that faced Pakistan in Dubai at half term. Ben took two wickets in the team’s last game of their one-day series and although Pakistan had won the first two games of three, the England side achieved a convincing 70-run victory in this final match. The EDP squad completed its tour with a three-day match against Pakistan, Ben taking 2 wickets for 66 runs in 13 overs in the second innings. The match was drawn. Head Coach Iain Brunnschweiler praised the captaincy of Max Holden, the Middlesex all rounder and the bowling performances of Warwickshire’s George Panayi and Worcestershire’s Ben Twohig. These two, he described as being ‘the pick of the bowlers’. A successful trip for our young cricketer who will have leant a lot on this tour with the EDP. Mark Hardinges, Master i/c Cricket
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Future Activities 2015 Sunday 10th May Saturday 9th May Sunday 17th May Sunday 14th June
Prep Schools’ Tennis Tournament Schools’ Aquathlon Under 11 EIGHT8 Cricket for prep schools Girls’ Cricket Pairs Competition for prep schools
OPEN DAYS Monday 4th May Saturday 16th May
The Downs Malvern Malvern College
MALVERN ACTIVE JUNIOR ACTIVITES 30th March – 2nd April Football Camp in association with the Albion Foundation 30th March – 3rd April Super Camps 20th July – 28th August Super Camps For further information on these camps please visit www.malvernactive.co.uk/junioractivities