Malvern View Summer 2018

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M ALVERN VIEW Issue 31 | Summer 2018

CCF: Biennial Inspection

www.malverncollege.org.uk


Malvern View • Summer 2018

From the Headmaster

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Academic Colours – Lent 2018 During the course of this year, we have been celebrating the 25th anniversary of Malvern becoming a co-educational school and, coincidentally, the 25th year in which Malvern has been a school where pupils have taken the International Baccalaureate (IB), alongside A levels. Some of the material which you will read in the following pages reflects activities associated with these anniversaries. One particularly noteworthy event of the past term was the U18 Girls’ Cricket team playing against the MCC Women’s team on The Senior; after the match, a special award was made to one of our girls, Jemima Martyn-Smith, by the MCC. This publication once again is indicative of the wide-ranging interests of our boys and girls: academic pursuits are reflected here, along with drama, music, and sporting activities demonstrating the commitment of so many Malvernians. Read on!

Pupils are awarded Academic Colours if they have been on the Academic Honour Roll four times. In order to qualify a pupil needs to have shown an excellent level of effort across his/her subjects throughout the course of a term. To have been on the Honour Roll four times is therefore a tremendous achievement. Our congratulations go to the following pupils: Poppy Houghton, Amber Anderson, Ethan Wang, Eily Lo, Helen Wu, Giulia Buttiglione, Jyothirmay Baldota, Lakshya Joshi, Anna Bischoff, Agueda Ortiz Flores, Millie Page and Edmund Thurlow. Sarah Angus, Senior Deputy Head

Antony Clark Headmaster

Liza gains a place at Princeton Cover photo: Col. Wilson conducts the Biennial Inspection of the Malvern College CCF – his daughter Amelia Wilson leading the parade as Malvern College’s Senior Cadet (2017).

Congratulations to Liza Rosenberg who has gained a place at Princeton University to read Mathematics and Physics. Malvern pupils are increasingly gaining places at very competitive universities in the US and this place at Princeton, one of the original Ivy League universities in the United States, is testament to Liza’s considerable talent and hard work. Very well done! Martin Harris, Head of International University Applications


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UKMT Regional finalists A combined team from Malvern College and The Downs Malvern entered the Regional final of the United Kingdom Mathematics Trust Team Competition held in Leominster, where, after four rounds of competition, they were declared the winners, beating

18 other schools, including the Royal Grammar School Worcester, The King’s School Worcester and Dean Close. This team now qualifies for the national finals to be held in London in June.

UKMT Intermediate Mathematics Challenge The United Kingdom Mathematical Trust holds a series of Mathematical Challenges aimed at stimulating mathematical problem-solving. The various stages, defined by age and ability, start with a Junior Challenge and culminate with the British Mathematical Olympiad at national level. In February, in the Intermediate Challenge (Hundred, Year 11 and below) thirteen of our pupils attained Gold Awards with Ben Chen, Andrew Jung, Jay Yang and Natalie Fan receiving merits and qualifiying for the challenging Olympiad follow-on round. Three of these pupils are in the Remove, so a year young for this competition, and obtained scores that were among the highest we have had in the last seven years. Natalie surpassed all

expectations and achieved a Distinction and a Medal, putting her in the top 100 people in her year group in the country. This is the highest score I can remember for a pupil at Malvern College. Our other competitors in the UKMT Intermediate Challenge progressed to the Kangaroo round for top achievers, including Kitty Holroyd, who despite not receiving a Gold, scored very highly (as a member of the FY) to compete.

Articles by Chris Thomas, Head of Mathematics

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Lea-Smith Reading Competition As one of the oldest and most established inter-House competitions at Malvern, the Lea-Smith continues to induce fierce competition and is one of the highlights of Lent term. The heats this year, held in the Chapel and including over a hundred pupils from all years, were of an extremely high standard and resulted in a very strong final that proved a masterclass in the art of reading aloud. The passages chosen this year were an eclectic mix of genres, ranging from Batman to Pride and Prejudice. The top four from each year group went through to the final which was held in Big School, with the eventual winners being:

Syuzanna Avanesova (FY) Georgina Wood (Remove) Zhiwei Yan (Hundred) Zaynab Hajjam (L6) Eliot Gilling-Smith (U6) We were fortunate to have as our adjudicator this year, Alexandra James, an actor, public speaker, voice coach and dramaturge who is well known for her work with the RSC alongside Derek Jacobi. No.3 won the overall House competition and was awarded the generous and glittering Lea-Smith trophy. Dr Bradley Wells, Head of English

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QinetiQ Young Engineers Competition 2018 This year’s QinetiQ Engineering Project Challenge was set by QinetiQ radar scientist George Price. The task required pupils to investigate a method of tracking a target’s position remotely in the modern theatre of electronic warfare. Two teams of Malvern sixth formers considered the problem and the requirements before beginning to design and develop a product that could be used to locate rogue WiFi networks. Both teams developed a solution by using a Raspberry Pi, developing coding and connecting these to an antenna and display. They presented their solutions to a team from QinetiQ at Malvern College. On completion of the project, the school design teams will submit their project reports to the British Science Association for consideration hoping to gain a Gold Crest Award. Team 1: Lucas Fowler-Dewe (Team Leader), Thomas Vernon, Jasmine Jain and Khoa Bang Tran Team 2: Georgina Denham (Team Leader), Ludovico Vimercati Sanseverino, George Advani and Miguel Ortiz Flores

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Harvard Book Prize The Harvard Book Prize is awarded annually to an outstanding academic who has also made a considerable contribution to the life of the school. It is donated by Harvard University and the intention is that it may attract one of our students to Harvard in due course. Malvern College is one of a handful of schools in the world to whom this award is made and I am very pleased to announce that this year’s recipient is James Wakefield. Antony Clark, Headmaster

Young Photographer Competition Hereford College of Arts Harry Myddelton has been named winner of the Hereford College of Arts Young Photographers’ Competition. He wins £75 and a smart phone lens kit and, along with his family and friends, attended the private view of the exhibition and an award ceremony at the end of March. Harry’s photograph was submitted under the theme Bravery. Harry describes the image as follows: “This photograph represents the determined mind, something so simplistic that in the event of adversity might be

overwhelming and is inevitable. When I look at the photograph it is hard to think about would have happened next. The boy is entering into a world of the unknown. For him the unseen will soon become the seen but we cannot know what that is. I always think the thing about creating photographs is that we cannot see the whole story or how it will progress, so you have to imagine how things turn out.​”


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Art Exhibition 25 years of Co-education As part of Malvern College’s celebrations of 25 years as a co-educational school, the Art Department teamed up with Oxford based Aiden Meller Gallery for its annual art competition. Pupils from both Malvern College and The Downs Malvern were invited to submit work responding to the theme ‘25 years of Co-education’. Congratulations to the overall winner of the competition, Arina Znamenskaya. The range and quality of the work from all those who took part led to a wonderful event in St Edmund’s Hall to celebrate this exciting anniversary. Christine Pritchard, Head of Art

By Crystal Yip, Lower Sixth


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U18 Girls v MCC Ladies Cricket MCC: 170-6 Malvern College: 129 Result: MCC win by 41 runs Player of the Match: Jemima Martyn-Smith Malvern won the toss and elected to field. Batting, the visitors posted a positive target of 170-6, with Georgie Adcock scoring a well-constructed 52 from 53 balls. There were too many extras (almost the number of runs we lost by) but our girls put on a wonderful display of cricket. Everyone bowled well, particularly Meghan Edwards who bowled 3 overs taking 2 wickets for 5 runs. Wickets also went to Jemima Martyn-Smith, Hannah Taylor, Banita Dodhia, and Heather Harris. After tea, Malvern went out to bat, chasing a target of 171 and an opening partnership of 37 from 6 overs from captain Elise Black and Scarlett Woods got Malvern off to good start. The pick of the batters then came to the crease. Jemima Martyn-Smith came into her own as she hit a fantastic 42 from 30 balls. She had an excellent innings, hitting seven fours, and clearing the bank with an immense hook shot. Unfortunately, Jemima fell short of her half century and was bowled trying to dig out a full-length delivery. Olivia Hyde also batted extremely well holding the Malvern innings together. At the end of the match Malvern were 39 runs short, but there had been some excellent performances throughout with both bat and ball. The MCC awarded a special ‘Spirit of Cricket’ cap to the player they deemed to have put in the best performance in the match and this was Jemima Martyn-Smith who had had a fantastic innings with the bat, hitting big shots and demonstrating good running between the wickets – keeping the opposition on their toes. On the day, we also established another special tradition, the presentation of the Girls’ Cricket Colours Cap. This was awarded to last year’s captain, Yasmin Cook, and presented by the current captain, Elise Black. Yas has played an integral part in the development of the girls’ cricket programme at Malvern College and was welcomed back to play in this match against the MCC. It was great to see her still enjoying her cricket and we wish her best in the future. Thea Brookes, Girls’ Cricket Coach

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Bert Lacey Malvern College CCF Contingent Commander, Lt. Col. Bettinson (OM 1987-92) and WOI Joe Smith.

Malvern College CCF Biennial Inspection On Wednesday 14th March, 130 members of the contingent paraded for the Biennial Inspection, which was conducted by Col. Wilson (father of Sgt. Amelia Wilson, Senior Cadet 2017). Col. Wilson and Old Malvernian Lt. Col. Bettinson (No.7, 1987-92) spent a busy morning inspecting the many activities in which the cadets are involved. Their tour of inspection of Malvern College began with a Guard of Honour and was followed by visits to various stands including Flight Simulator, First Aid, Shooting in the Range, a CQB and Paintball ‘Fire and Manoeuvre’ amongst many others, there was plenty on show for the Inspecting party to see. A formal lunch, hosted by our senior cadets, was held in the Long Room for the Inspecting team and this was followed by an afternoon of more fun-orientated activities such as axe-throwing and laser clay-pigeon shooting. The day was a tremendous success on all fronts and a great reflection of the strength and depth of the CCF and all that it does. Bert Lacey, Malvern College CCF Contingent Commander

Col. Wilson with the Headmaster and Lt. Col. Bettinson (No.7, 1987-92), Bert Lacey, Malvern College CCF Contingent Commander and (top of the steps) WOI Joe Smith, from the cadet training team.


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CCF Brigade Target Rifle Competition Each year the best teams from the Army Cadet Force and Combined Cadet Force meet at Whittington Ranges, near Lichfield, to compete over two days in the 11 Signal Brigade Cadet Target Rifle Competition. Cadets use the L81A2 Target Rifle which fires a 7.62mm (308 civilian equivalent) round at distances of up to 500 metres using only iron sights. Our Malvern College cadets had received training on the rifle but had yet to fire a shot, so this competition was a baptism of fire! On the day of the competition the weather was perfect for precision target-shooting, the sun was shining and the slight breeze was easy to read and allow for. The team comprising Sgt. Lucas Fowler-Dewe (RAF), Cdt. Matt Bruce (Army), LCpl. Hamish Houghton (Army), and Cdt. Cedric Reuther (Army) were each allowed 12 minutes on the firing point to deliver their nine shots on target. In this time, they had to adjust their rifle and sights and read the wind to make any necessary corrections before sending the shot. The target, once hit, had to be lowered, the shot marked and then raised again, so that the shooter could make any additional adjustment to his position before sending the next round down range. A lot to execute in just 12 minutes! Malvern College cadets fired extremely well at 300m with Cdt Reuther recording an impressive 26.2 out of possible 35. Moving to the 500m range where the same procedure is followed but from a greater distance, I watched through the spotting scope

and noticed other ACFs and CCFs missing their targets. Hope surged that if we could hold our nerve this could be our year. With the last round fired we packed our equipment away and moved to square for the presentation. At the final count we finished as runners-up and fifth overall, a very good result considering the standard achieved by the winning teams. Cdt Cedric Reuther maintained his composure at 500m, and with his combined score from 300m he was placed third overall, only missing out on top gun by one point, despite having achieved the most bullseyes of the competition. This was a great team achievement which promises much for the future! John Nichols, SSI Malvern College CCF

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RAF Troodos and Akrotiri Cyprus Camp

In the first week of the Easter Holidays, Roxane Piret, Frédéric Reuther and I attended a RAF Cyprus camp at RAF Troodos and Akrotiri. This was a tremendous opportunity for us to see how the RAF operates abroad, and over ten days, we took part in many interesting activities, unique to the island and the operational set up there. We were able to visit the bases of at Akrotiri, Troodos and Episkopi, and to look at specific sections at each location; the Dog-training section, Engineering, Bomb Disposal (where we saw huge explosions!), Air Traffic Control, Engineering and Olive Harvest. We took part in DCCT (computerised shooting) and were able to view Hercules and Trooper aircraft. We were also lucky enough to have an intriguing talk by a pilot who flies Typhoons and Tornados for the RAF and is a part of Operation Shader in Syria. There were some heart-racing activities featuring: go-karting, banana boat riding, kayaking, paddle-boarding, swimming,

climbing, hiking, sport, team-building exercises, high ropes, laser tag and paintball. All of these activities, of course, were made so much better by the wonderful weather and beautiful surroundings of mountains and Mediterranean Sea. Towards the end of our stay we had a few days of relaxation with the opportunity to go out on a boat to swim and sunbathe and to relax around the base with the other cadets on camp. As our time in Cyprus drew to a close, we all received a commemorative camp polo shirts and Cypriot national flag which we got our fellow Cadets to sign. I was grateful to receive the award ‘Best at Sport’ for my efforts in inter-flight sport competitions. Many of us are still in touch with new friends we made on the camp. It was a great experience for us all and has widened our horizons. Charles Izzard, Lower Sixth


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Half Marathon for Cancer Research On Easter Sunday my friend Isla (Cheltenham College) and I completed the Royal Borough of Kingston Half Marathon. This was a difficult task for me as I’m not a natural runner! Nonetheless I managed to complete the 13.2 miles in 2 hours 11 minutes. Isla was a little faster completing the course in 1 hour 57 minutes. Not only was this a personal achievement for both of us but we were also thrilled to have raised £1,688 for Cancer Research UK. Verity Manning-Cox, Upper Sixth

Hit it for Six My plans to volunteer and raise £6,000 for Cricket Builds Hope in Rwanda I am travelling to Rwanda this summer to be a volunteer for the charity called Cricket Builds Hope. The charity was founded in 2011 and its purpose is to ultimately achieve reconciliation in the country through sport. Cricket is an amazing medium that brings disparate groups of people together: it teaches us how to be collaborative and to work as a team. Before the genocide there was hardly any cricket played in Rwanda. Now, just 24 years on from the atrocities, there are more than 7,000 people participating in the game. So far the charity has raised over £1,000,000 that it will use toward the building of the Gahanga National Cricket Stadium. This year, the new National Stadium will host the ICC T20 World Cup African qualifiers. During my time in Rwanda I will be coaching, playing, setting up social media platforms for the charity, working with outreach programmes and seeking new sponsors and donors. More than anything I want to make a difference to the players and communities I have the privilege of getting to know, and to continue the charity’s work in enacting positive social change. Before I leave for Rwanda I am raising funds to donate to Cricket Builds Hope. All donations will go directly to the charity. If you would like to find out more about the charity, their story and how I plan to help, or if you would like to make a donation or leave a message of support, please go to: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/sebastiangracec-b-hrwanda

I am also collecting used, good condition cricket kit to ship out to Rwanda. Your support would be gratefully received. I would like to express my thanks to the Malvernian Society for its generous contribution towards my travel. Sebastian Grace, Lower Sixth

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Worcester Competitive Arts Festival There were some excellent successes for Malvern musicians at the Worcester Competitive Arts Festival this year. Cameron Eldridge was awarded a merit for his playing of Gabriel’s Oboe in the Woodwind and Brass U14 class. Ani King had double success, winning the Open String solo class with Honours (playing the first movement of Kabalevsky’s Violin Concerto and Wieniawski’s Obertass Mazurka) and also with Honours, she gained second place in the String Solo U14 class (with Achron’s Hebrew melody). Lucie Fletcher sang for the Worcester Music Store Prize (a class for U15 at grade 8 or above on any instrument) which she won, with Distinction, in her singing of Handel’s As when the dove laments her love (from Acis and Galatea) and Après un rêve by Fauré. Congratulations to them all. Jonathan Brown, Director of Music

World Book Day Jasper Fforde – Author visit Jasper Fforde, the critically acclaimed author of The Last Dragonslayer series, the Nursery Crime books and the Thursday Next novels visited Malvern College this term to talk to our pupils about writing and his work. Jasper gave up a varied career in the film world to live and write in Wales. He is a popular author and was a very welcome guest here to help us celebrate World Book Day. Helen Jones, Librarian


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Informal Concert Summer The Summer term Informal Concert began with a performance from the Cello Club: Alice Day, Helena Rose and Mrs Walden played Kontretanz by Beethoven. The ensemble and internal intonation were very good in this spirited performance, with some lovely contrasts. Louisa Marsden-Smedley then sang In his eyes by Frank Wildhorn. This song was delivered with panache and commitment, and very well projected. Up next was Felix Kingdon, playing Jim Parker’s Bright Young Things on the alto saxophone. Felix’s performance blended some lovely character with more lyrical lines. Celestine Hanssens (harp) followed with Musical Priest – a traditional Irish piece arranged by Kim Robertson. There was some lovely cantabile playing here, really bringing out the obvious vocal qualities of the melody most effectively. Tom Doherty played a composition of his own, named Cascading, on the guitar. This was a carefullyconsidered piece of work, blending a number of styles, and it allowed Tom to show off his undoubted skills to the maximum. Shea John (flute) played a Rondo – the final movement from Mozart’s Flute Concerto in D major. This piece is both lyrical and technical and Shea was able to exhibit both his secure technique and excellent musicality in equal measure. Ani King was next, singing Schubert’s Liebesbotschaft. Ani has a lovely, clear quality to her voice which suited this song perfectly, as it requires lightness and agility, and this was achieved very well indeed. Doug Pope rounded off the evening with Dave McGarry’s Dreams of You on the alto saxophone. Doug is well-known for his shaping and communication of the musical phrase and this performance was no exception, where he was able to really expressive the fluid, undulating lines. This was an outstanding evening showcasing marvellously music at Malvern.

Charity concert at Worcester Organisers of Amaudo UK, a charity supporting mental health in south-east Nigeria, thanked our musicians for staging a superb concert at the Bromyard Road Methodist Church, in the city of Worcester, this term. The concert raised funds to support those in need. In particular, we thank members of the Chamber Choir. The Jazz Band and soloists Douglas Pope, Lucie Fletcher and Jenny Zhou, Mr Angus, Mr Phillips and Mr Haynes for their support of this venture. We greatly value the time given by pupils to perform for such a worthwhile cause.

Articles by Jonathan Brown, Director of Music

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England U20 selection: James Scott James Scott (No.7, 2015-17) continues to go from strength to strength, gaining selection to a very strong England U20 squad. This is remarkable since James is a year young (U19). He was in the 23-man squad that played the French U20 side in March at the Stade de la Mediterranee in Beziers where England won against the unbeaten French side (22-6). He also played against the South African U20s side at Sixways in May – the U20 World Cup warm up game. James also gained a starting birth in the opening game of the U20 World Cup tournament against Argentina won by England in Narbonne in May (39-18). In the match against Italy at Perpignan, James started on the bench but came on just after half time. England were again the victors in this tie (43-5). James started the match against Scotland in Béziers, scoring England’s third try to add to the total of 35 points to Scotland’s 10. England now face a semi-final clash with a strong South African side with all to play for.

England U20 squad selections Right: James Scott

Nick Tisdale, Master i/c Rugby

Another first for Guy Disney Guy Disney (No.2, 95-00) continues to make racing history in his career as a jump jockey. On 12th April this year, on Grand National day, he competed in the Randox Health Foxhunters’ Chase on the famous Aintree circuit. He was unplaced but is the first amputee jockey to ride the course which has unseated many others. Guy, on Gallery Exhibition, expressed his delight at having raced on this famous course. “It’s the sort of thing you’d do every day until you die if you could, it’s very special.” A former an Army Captain, Guy lost part of a leg in a rocketpropelled grenade attack in Afghanistan in 2009, and rides with a special stirrup shoe that holds his prosthetic limb. Of his horse, he said “He’s the most gorgeous horse, but it was really soft ground and, on the day, he found it hard work.”

Two years ago, Disney showed how willing he is to take on a challenge when he became the first amputee to win a race under Rules in Britain with Rathlin Rose on their road to victory in the Royal Artillery Gold Cup, a three-mile steeplechase, at Sandown. They added to that success in this year’s contest where Disney and his horse came a close second. Not one to boast about his achievements Guy reluctantly acknowledges that he is an inspiration to others who need to refocus their lives but his determination has set him apart and we can expect even greater things from him in the future.


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Charity Netball triangular This year the girls were ready to try to retain their title in this highly competitive and entertaining triangular competition that pits the boys’ rugby 1st team against the girls 1st netball and a representative and very capable staff side. The charity we were supporting with the funds raised was the OSCAR Foundation created for children in India: “The OSCAR Foundation (Organisation for Social Change, Awareness and Responsibility) is a non-profit making organisation that, through football, instils the value of education and empowers underprivileged children and youth with life skills to enable them to take responsibility for their community development…” The OSCAR foundation will bring a team to play at Malvern College next year. In this year’s triangular, the girls took an early lead of five goals after making a solid start against the boys. Maintaining their lead wasn’t an easy task however, as the boys began to get into the swing of things and put in some strong performances – Jack Bishop and Will Lane played exceptionally well. In the end,

the girls were able to hold on to a three-goal lead to claim the win. The girls versus staff match was another close encounter, with Mr Bilclough and Mr Watts making impressive debut performances. The girls held on to win by a single goal – a very close game indeed! The boys versus staff match was another excellent entertaining and competitive game with a strong performance by the staff. For the boys’ team Ali Renton was strong in defence but the staff side was able to hold out for a 5-5 draw. Well done to everyone who was involved and a huge thank you for supporting this wonderful charity. Rhian Jenkins, i/c Netball

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Malvern View • Summer 2018

New Chapel Prefects The Headmaster is pleased to announce the Chapel Prefect positions for 2018-19: Senior Chapel Prefect: Ellie Calderwood. Chapel Prefects: Ariana Davidson, Monty Lampard, Oli Millard, James Wakefield Sacristan Chapel Prefect: Nick Yeoward

Staff Profile: Laura Shales, Design & Technology I moved from Cheshire to Worcester in 2010 and joined Malvern College in 2011 on a part-time temporary contract for one term. During this time, I was able to complete my last term of my NQT year. I really enjoyed my experience at Malvern and was very hopeful of being able to return. Luckily a full-time position became available and I returned to the College in September 2012. I teach across the specialisms within Design and Technology and I really enjoy the variety and challenges this brings. For the past three years I have run the Leith Cooking and Silversmithing co-curricular activities as well as supporting pupils undertaking their own projects outside of lesson time within the Design and Technology department. I have been the Foundation Year tutor in Ellerslie House since returning in 2012. I also tutor the Sixth Form across various houses. The pastoral side of my role here is one I particularly enjoy and find very rewarding. Prior to training as a teacher, I completed a BSC (Hons) Degree and a MSc in Industrial Design at the University of Salford. I then worked as a bespoke fitted furniture designer for a company called Neville Johnson.

Outside of teaching I enjoying silversmithing, tennis and horse riding.


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Auschwitz Eliott Gilling-Smith and I, accompanied by Mr Reid, were privileged to visit the site of the concentration camp at Auschwitz, in March. We began at the Polish Town of Oświęcim and from there went on to Auschwitz I, the camp which has become a symbol of the Holocaust with the infamous gate reading ‘Work will set you free’. As the sun was setting, we arrived at Auschwitz II, the camp of Birkenau, which was one of the six death camps installed in World War II. With the temperature dropping, we walked around this bare camp: most of it was destroyed by the Nazis to get rid of any evidence of what had happened there. At Auschwitz II I realised that it was even harder to accept the facts of this place and to understand how this could have happened; harder even than it had been to see the possessions of the victims that remain in Auschwitz I. Here, there was an ominous stillness. Our tour finished with a short ceremony to commemorate all of the victims of the Holocaust. Of the six million who died, 1.5 million had been murdered here. This experience was emotional and challenging in so many ways. Understanding that the Holocaust was not about numbers and remembering that each unique individual lost had so much in life to offer. What I saw and experienced will stay with me. I hope others will also visit, learn and especially remember what can happen when people with extreme prejudices get into power. Lauren Maxey, Senior Chapel Prefect


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Malvern View • Summer 2018

Introducing Rachel Graff

Rachel, with husband Matt, daughter Evie and son Reuben, and their dogs Bessie and Pearl.

Housemistress designate – No.6 Rachel has been at Malvern for three years and teaches English. She is also an academic tutor to Foundation Year and Sixth Form and been involved in the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme and pupil expeditions. She came to Malvern College having most recently taught English at The King’s School, Worcester but has taught Drama, Media and Communication Studies in the past. She read English and American Literature at Sussex University, studied for her PGCE at the University of Oxford and has an MA in Literature, Politics and Identity from the University of Worcester. Rachel is married to Matt, who works in cyber security and enjoys playing cricket for the same village club as their children, Reuben (aged 13) and Evangeline (aged 11). They will be moving into No.6 at the end of August, along with their Labrador, Pearl and Bessie a Basset/Spaniel/Poodle cross. As a family they have always enjoyed walking in the Malvern Hills, Brecon Beacons or in the nearby Herefordshire countryside. Both Matt and Rachel are keen cooks and Rachel is particularly looking forward to baking with the girls in No.6. She also enjoys gardening and pottering in her greenhouse, growing flowers and vegetables from seed. Rachel says: “House No.6 has a reputation for independentminded and ambitious young women. When you meet the girls you are struck by their strong sense of House identity and community and by the value they place on the support they receive from each other. Above all, No.6 is a happy and thriving home. I hope to encourage the girls to value the physical environment

around them and to bring their creativity to the shared spaces within the house. I believe that it is important to respect the challenges faced by modern teenagers and to foster kindness and respect, whilst allowing them to flourish as individuals. I will try to ensure that they maintain a happy balance and that they make the most of the extensive opportunities available to them while they are at Malvern.”


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Prep Schools’ EIGHT8 Cricket Tournament The sun shone on Malvern’s popular boys’ ‘EIGHT8’ tournament which is now in its eleventh year. There was some excellent cricket played throughout the day and it was clear that the tournament was wide open – all teams played extremely well. But the final, to great excitement, yielded a local derby between The Elms School and The Downs Malvern. Both teams had topped their respective groups and this promised to be an excellent match. The Downs batted first, posting a very good total. The Elms lost early wickets and when there was a run-out they began to struggle to maintain momentum. The Downs Malvern were the eventual winners – the first time they have won the tournament. The Plate Competition was won by newcomers, Horris Hill School, who beat Packwood Haugh School in the final of this competition. Best Batter: Bertie Michael (The Elms) Best Bowler: Oscar Moore (Horris Hill School) Best All-rounder: Sam Clements (The Downs Malvern) Mark Hardinges, Master i/c Cricket


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Malvern View • Summer 2018

Back row: Jack Bishop, Nick Yeoward 3rd row: Eliott Gilling-Smith, James Wakefield, Monty Lampard 2nd row: Federico Amodeo, Ariana Davison, Ella Warren, Amelia Wilson, Oliver Millard Front row: Ellie Calderwood, Headmaster, Antony Clark, Chairman of the College Council, Robin Black, Lauren Maxey

Commemoration Day Malvern College held its annual service of Commemoration at Great Malvern Priory on Saturday 26th May. The formal Commemoration of Founders and Benefactors was delivered by the Headmaster, Antony Clark. The service opened with the hymn All People that on Earth do Dwell and included the hymns Alleluia! Sing to Jesus! and Jerusalem. The Chapel Choir sang Handel’s Zadok the Priest, Elgar’s The Spirit of the Lord and Noble’s Nunc Dimittis in B minor. The Chamber Choir sang the anthem Justorum Animae by C. V. Stanford. The choirs were directed by Jonathan Brown, the College’s Director of Music, and accompanied by Michael Phillips, the College Organist. The Senior Chapel Prefect, Eleanor Calderwood, read the lesson, John 15: 9-17. The address was given by Sue Duff, old girl of Ellerslie School and a member of the College Council. Sue Duff celebrated the 25 years of co-education at the College, focusing on the values of lifelong friendships based on shared experiences, and the efforts and achievements which help communities to thrive. She reminded pupils that respect and friendship often go hand-in-hand: a timely reflection for contemporary society. Afterwards parents and guests returned to the Malvern College campus for Prize-giving and to see exhibitions of Art, Design & Technology and Science. There was a presentation made by one of Malvern College’s academic groups, the Wheeler-Bennett Society, and performances in the Music School as well as the traditional Field Gun Run on the College cricket grounds, with representatives from the College CCF, rugby team and girl’s hockey team competing.

The speaker at Prize-giving was Major Nics Wetherill who was the expedition leader for Expedition ‘Ice Maiden’; the first allfemale team to cross Antarctica using muscle power alone. Major Wetherill is a General Practitioner Registrar in the army, currently working in Tidworth Garrison. She gave a truly inspirational account of the expedition, providing the audience with a first-class role model to follow.


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Major Nics Weatherill

CCF team win the Gun Run

Lauren Maxey, Snr Chapel Prefect 2017-18


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Lexie Clarke wins Dengie National Grand Prix 1.10m Championships

Left to right: Rider: Verity Manning- Cox Horse: Skew Wiff VI

Rider: Olivia Davies Horse: Spoonie

Rhys Chapman, Emily Archer, Ariana Davidson, Freja Bedell, Lexie Clarke, Harry Finch

Lexie Clarke and her horse Kodak Moment II put in an amazing performance at Addington Manor Pony Club Dengie National Grand Prix 1.10m Championships. It was a long evening, completing four rounds of showjumping against the toughest competition the Pony Club has to offer. Eleven competitors went through to the final jump off and Lexie is now Reserve National Champion, by 0.7 of a second!

Harry qualifies for NSEA event in October Harry Finch, on his horse Jack, came fourth in a NSEA qualifier this month at Elmwood to put him through to the event in October. Congratulations Harry. Tara MacMaster, Malvern College Equestrian

Emily Archer represents GB Equestrian Congratulations to Emily Archer and her pony Top Star who achieved two fifth place rosettes, scoring over 70% representing Great Britain at Keysoe International CDI 3*.


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‘Our Uninvited Guests’ by Julie Summers The story of Malvern College’s move to Blenheim Palace during the Second World War has been documented by Julie Summers in her book ‘Our Uninvited Guests’. The book delves into the fascinating secret life of Britain’s country houses in the years 1939–1945 and includes a chapter about Malvern College and the two re-locations the school endured just before and during World War II. Malvern College’s first move was to Blenheim Palace in 1939 when the Admiralty expressed the wish to use the College’s premises. In the event, the school was not used as a base for the Admiralty and the pupils returned to Malvern having had the most amazing year living in the palace. On the second occasion the school moved to Harrow School so that the Telecommunications Research Establishment (TRE) could continue its vital work into the development of radar. Whilst these researchers were here, and even after the boys returned from Harrow, the cadets belonging to the Free French, the equivalent of the officers in training at Sandhurst, were also based on the College campus. Julie Summers and a team from BBC Midlands Today visited the College earlier this term to film an interview with Julie and Ian Quickfall, the former Malvern College archivist, about her book and the fascinating history of the school. The news item was shown on the BBC regional news programme.

For Legally Blonde fans all over the world Lucy Ford (OM), in a recent interview for Bauer Media with Hollywood stars Reese Witherspoon, Oprah Winfrey and Mindy Kaling on the release of A Wrinkle in Time – Disney’s latest film – seized the opportunity to present Witherspoon, the Legally Blonde star, with her university dissertation on the film’s part in creating for Witherspoon a shining example of a strong female character role in the world of film. Witherspoon was surprised but thrilled to be the object of this 15,000-word work of devoted study and was very pleased to accept the extended essay from Lucy, now 26 years old with an established career in journalism. Her report reached over 5,500 people on social media. Soon afterwards Lucy sent a special message to Malvern College to wish the cast ‘good luck’ for their musical theatre production of … Legally Blonde! Keith Packham, Director of Drama


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Musical Theatre Society production of ‘Legally Blonde Jnr.’ ‘Legally Blonde’, starring Hollywood actress Reese Witherspoon, is a much-loved film with an incredibly uplifting, ‘feel-good’ plotline that focuses on themes of love, friendship, resilience and… dogs. The movie-to-musical story of lovable scatterbrain turned genius, Elle Woods, was presented in Big School by Malvern College’s dramatists and musical theatre performers with tremendous verve and provided audiences with the perfect end-of-term tonic! Right from the opening production number – ‘Omigod you Guys!’ – it was clear that this was going to be a fast-paced and slick production featuring strong vocals and energetic dance routines. Leanne Stephens (Speech and Drama Tutor) making her debut as a director at the College, had expertly drilled her large ensemble cast to act, sing and dance superbly, complemented by highly impressive work from the costume, lighting and sound departments. The production was vibrant, colourful, entertaining and thought-provoking in equal measure, with incredible energy displayed by the young performers throughout. A basic set design, comprising white stage flats mounted on a specially constructed modular stage, was cleverly employed to transform location by use of changing furniture and props. The environment of Big School, with its scholarly ambiance, centrally dominant ornate window and gallery of portraits, lent itself well to the hallowed halls of Harvard University. Lucie Fletcher delivered a highly polished and professional performance in the role of Elle Woods, acting and delivering incredible vocals that perfectly encapsulated the comedic, heartwarming, smart and iconic nature of the character. Warner, her Harvard-bound beau, was superbly played by Toon De Melker and Natasha Cook in the role of Vivienne Kensington made for

a most caustic and scheming adversary. The Delta Nu girls were Georgina Wood, Boo Forbes, Ava Emery, Kinvara Clarke, Jemima Martyn-Smith, Honor Letts and Eily Lo and Otty Wyatt gave a most accomplished performance as Paulette, the down-trodden nail technician struggling with her own self-worth. Bonnie Green was the television fitness guru Brooke Wyndham and the pompous and manipulative Professor Callahan was played with sneering menace by Charles Izzard. Harrison Hudson played the loveable yet quirky Emmett, attorney and teaching assistant to Callahan who sang and acted his role superbly. Maissa De Oliviera as Kiki presented a stylish and feisty rendition of ‘Bend and Snap’ which was admirably supported by salon customers Lottie Bulley, Jemima Martyn-Smith and Missy Hingley. The impressive cast had behind them a first-rate team of creatives. Hair and make-up design by pupil Emma Raycraft perfectly complimented the production, especially when transforming Honor Letts into an obnoxious, rebellious rock chick as Chutney Wyndham. Costume design by Heather Fryer superbly captured the essence of youth and was meticulous in its attention to detail and sheer number of items required. The challenge of designing sound and lighting for the Big School venue did not faze Steve Doidge and was expertly operated by Basil MarsdenSmedley, Saskia Drake and Lucy Leicher, overseen by Harriet Hook on music. Director of Drama Keith Packham, who made logistical arrangements for the production in order to prepare it for presentation said “This was an outstanding production by all involved and superbly marshalled by Mrs Stephens, one in which the cast perform with passion and total commitment which was a joy to see. Omigod you Guys – Bravo!”


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Hamlet Royal & Derngate Theatre – Northampton Braving the ‘Beast from the East’, a wintery weather front from darkest Russia, seven hardy A level English pupils and their teacher set out for the Royal & Derngate Theatre in Northampton to watch what promised to be an interesting production of Hamlet. The protracted journey felt appropriately like travelling to Denmark. Fortunately, the pre-show event, with members of the cast and crew from the RSC, proved to be a warming experience, providing some interesting insights into what the play had looked like in rehearsal, and discussions on the director’s interpretation of the play. Similarly warming was the setting for the performance: Ghana. Traditionally a dark and melancholy affair, the vibrancy and colour of this production was a unique take on the play that made for a worthwhile and memorable experience. Tribal drums and a paint-spattered set created an interesting backdrop, and complemented most effectively lead actor Paapa Essiedu’s passionate and skittish portrayal of the Dane. Having watched other, more conservative versions of the play, this boldly experimental interpretation from director Simon Godwin certainly provided stimulus for debate in lessons, and will go on to make fresh and newly-informed talking points for the pupils in their essays on Hamlet in their forthcoming examinations. George Bilclough, English

Photo by Manuel Harlan, copyright RSC


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An apprenticeship approach to making g r e at l e a d e r s

EVE POOLE

Leadersmithing Lecture by Dr Eve Poole Dr Eve Poole gave a highly motivating lecture to the FY and Remove pupils on the topic of Leadership this term. The lecture was based on her recent academic studies and subsequent book entitled ‘Leadersmithing’. Eve has been teaching, consulting and speaking on leadership for over a decade. From her experience of working with leaders in all sectors across the world, she knows that their work is challenging. So, what does it take to be one – a leader? A leader is not something you just ‘become’ over time, suggests Eve, but it is something that can be learned. Thus she was inspired to develop the idea of Leadersmithing as a craft, and she has established a theory that teaches the tricks of the trade so that anyone with the right orientation and talent can master the skills required. Eve says that leadership is all about gaining real experience through the critical incidents that occur. This is how leaders develop the muscle-memory to do it well. Most leaders learn their craft the hard way through critical incidents that test their mettle; a kind of apprenticeship where the practical test of their skills give them the experience they require to manage well in the future. Through Leadersmithing you can stack the deck in your favour by taking the initiative to learn at your own pace, taking

on chosen challenges. This way you learn on your terms without waiting for the real-life incident to occur. We now know, from neuroscience, that templating can be used to build cognitive experience; this can also be applied to the acquisition of skills for leadership. Those who attended the lecture were especially interested in this revelation. A Q&A session followed the lecture and a group of pupils was invited to have supper at No.8 hosted by Mrs Nardone, with Eve and the Headmaster. This was a hugely successful event that was both inspiring and informative. We were very fortunate to have Eve visit us at Malvern and her lecture has provided both inspiration and good advice to our young leaders of the future. Roberta Keys, Deputy Head: Logistics


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The George Sayer Fellowship

George Sayer with pupils at Malvern in 1965

At the beginning of March, Malvern College held a series of pupil workshops and an open lecture in Big School to officially launch the inaugural George Sayer Fellowship, publicly acknowledging one of its most inspiring teachers. George taught English at Malvern College from 1945 and became Head of English in 1949 until his retirement in 1974. He was a most inspirational teacher and very fondly remembered by former pupils. “It was in the form room at Malvern College that George Sayer, who has died aged 91, made the greatest impact. He had a challenging and arresting manner of teaching, which allowed for no sitting on the fence. He exacted from his classes the very highest standards, all the time encouraging individual expression and interpretation. He guided pupils towards sensitive and thoughtful enjoyment of literature. Never conventional, he always said what he believed. He was renowned for his kindness and sympathy, the sobriquet ‘avuncular’ being most commonly employed by staff and pupils alike” – Julian Roskans (The Guardian, 2005). George was a writer and mentor to Old Malvernian C.S. Lewis and their friend J.R.R. Tolkien, both of whom he met at Oxford. He became their colleague, their confidant and their friend and

he invited them to visit his family home in Malvern, which they did frequently. George would eventually write Lewis’s biography and provide support and encouragement to Tolkien when he struggled to get The Lord of the Rings published. This new Sayer Fellowship will enable the annual appointment of a fellow (or fellows) who will make a contribution to the current academic life of the College. The aim is for our current pupils and community to benefit from an enriched academic contribution that honours Sayer’s literary and intellectual legacy. We were honoured that Prof McGrath accepted the invitation to be the first recipient of the Award in 2018. Prof McGrath is currently the Andreas Idreos Professor in Science and Religion at the University of Oxford. He is also an international Inklings scholar and expert on C. S. Lewis. Dr Bradley Wells, Head of English


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Prof Alister McGrath in workshops held with pupils

Left to right: Dr Bradley Wells, Mrs Margaret Sayer, Prof Alister McGrath


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Outdoor Pursuits news Jay Watts, Outdoor Pursuits & Leadership Co-ordinator

Horse-riding Our weekly horse-riding sessions are now in full swing with several pupils enjoying the chance to work on their riding skills off campus. There is much to learn about the rider working in harmony with the horse but pupils are getting better each week and taking more responsibility as a result. It’s great to see a new discipline take hold in the department.

Climbing Our climbers continue to work on their skills and technique, pushing the grades they are climbing. Lead-climbing is popular, with more pupils learning this skill than ever before. A wet and wild winter prevented us from completing a planned climbing trip, but the wheels are in motion to set this up early in the next academic year. I would like to make special mention of Lucie Gonder, Kira Angling, Peter Ingram, James Francis, Vivien Kruse, Molly McNicholas and Shea John, who lead the way in our climbing endeavours.


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Paddlesports Paddlesports at Malvern College continue to develop and there are increasing numbers participating across all disciplines. We have a group of kayakers, who have achieved the paddling grade for rapids, are about to travel to Slovenia for a two-week trip in the SÜca Valley, a world-renowned kayaking venue. This year we are offering more paddling opportunities to pupils in their choices of modes of transport for their DofE Award. Stand-up paddle-boarding is becoming more popular – a

fantastic way to introduce those of any ability to paddling. Saskia Griffiths, Henry Queen, Kira Angling, Esther Woods, Dougal Lemon, Max Horler and Georgina Inchbald look set to be our next batch of leading kayakers in College. Well done! We continue to do well in canoe polo competition with our A and B teams both achieving high standards in the Southwest division.

Mountain-biking With the introduction of night-biking, the mountain bike club has been able to continue through the winter months and, as a result, we have seen an increased level of participation. The stunning Malvern Hills are our training ground and we travel further afield for trips as our pupils continue to improve their biking skills and push their boundaries. Well done to Lucie Gonder, Peter Ingram, Laurence Elgar and Henry Queen for their continued commitment to their biking!

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Gold sea-kayak Practice Expedition Isle of Man For their practice expedition the Gold Award sea-kayaking team set out to circumnavigate the Isle of Man. They took on tidal races, managed strong sea currents and the prevailing tides, for some of the while flanked by a pod of seals. The team completed the 141 km task in three and a half days, wild camping each night in glorious weather. We were

also lucky enough to see a basking shark and several dolphins off the west coast of the island. Very well done! Now onto the qualifier in Sardinia in the summer holidays. Jay Watts, Outdoor Pursuits and Leadership Co-ordinator

Gold canoe and walk Practice Expedition Lake District Twenty-three walkers and eight canoeists completed their training and practice expeditions in the Lake District at the end of last term. The weather was wet at the start and this produced many challenges but when it cleared up pupils were able to fully appreciate the beauty of the area which helped enormously. It was a successful trip that highlighted the importance of listening and taking advice as well as being individually prepared for the physical challenge that can easily be underestimated. Phil Wastie, DofE Co-Ordinator

Silver Practice Expedition Wye Valley Now offering Silver rather than Bronze DofE programmes, Malvern continues to expand the options for transport available to the Remove year group. This year we offered pupils the choice between walking, kayaking, canoeing, mountain-biking, stand-up paddle-boarding and katakanuing and happily we had teams representing all of these options. They camped together in the same location each night and then went their separate ways in the day. Each evening they

returned to share stories with the others making for a great atmosphere and a very successful trip. The weather was lovely and lots of learning took place. Next up will be the Llangollen canal for the qualifier! Jay Watts, Outdoor Pursuits and Leadership Co-ordinator


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Malvern College to Paris MC2P In the summer of 2019 a team of 12 Malvern College pupils will endeavour to reach Paris from Malvern College without any motorised transport at all. The team will be trekking, biking, canoeing, sea-kayaking and stand-up paddle-boarding. If successful they will be the first school team to have crossed the

English Channel by stand-up paddleboard. The journey will take a total of 21 days and the challenge will finish at the Eiffel Tower. Training for this expedition has now started, with weekly muscle-burning bike summits of the Worcestershire Beacon each Tuesday morning before lessons!

White-water kayaking River Dart Our Slovenia-bound kayakers gained some practice on the River Dart this spring when we spent the day white water kayak training in Devon. Paddling solid grade 3 rapids, the team did fantastically. They managed the river well and descended the section famous for its high flows and technical paddling difficulty. They are now looking forward to trying out their skills in alpine conditions this summer. Articles by Jay Watts, Outdoor Pursuits and Leadership Co-ordinator

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Kayaking River Teme A local trip beckoned for our beginners. Starting at Ham bridge in Martley, we kayaked down to Knightwick Weir, learning the basics of the boat control and river running tactics. We had only one capsize and the group did incredibly well. We were also able to enjoy the sunshine and a break from study. Bigger tricks to come for these pupils new to the sport. Jay Watts, Outdoor Pursuits and Leadership Co-ordinator

Canoe Polo, South West League Both the As and the Bs competed in this season’s final Southwest division canoe polo tournament in Cheltenham. We had an impressive season with both our teams finishing very strongly and the As gaining a top three place. Well done in particular to Hamish Brodie, William

Scuba-diving Open Water PADI Course, Leicester Four pupils spent the weekend completing their PADI qualification dives at Stoney Cove in Leicestershire this term. They were diving in challenging conditions in very chilly water (5O° C) but performed remarkably well. The dive instructors and other adults on the course were very impressed by their determination and by their skills in the water. Even more impressively all the instructors commented on their excellent attitude and social skills. Ned Norbury and Jack Saunders passed their Open Water Diving Qualification which allows them to dive anywhere in the world. Oscar Shaw and Greg Lane both passed their Advanced Open Water Qualification. Congratulations to them all! Giles Hopkirk, Geography

Brodie, Julius Lange and Laurence Elgar, who have represented the Malvern College so well over the last couple of years: we are sad to see them go. Jay Watts, Outdoor Pursuits and Leadership Co-ordinator


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Rock climbing Castle Rock, Gloucester Earlier this year our climbing club headed out to a local crag, taking their indoor skills to the great outdoors. Climbing various routes and employing recently learned difficult technical moves, all pupils came away having improved their personal climbing performances. The rain held off just long enough to pack down and get back to the car.

House Canoe Polo This term we held our second, annual inter-House canoe polo tournament. All Houses entered a team and the level of skill demonstrated was certainly greater this year. Tough round-robin sessions separated the teams, with No.8 and No.9 taking the titles respectively for the girls and the boys. Very well done to all involved in this tournament which was thoroughly enjoyable to watch. This popular sport continues to encourage more and more pupils into the pool to participate in this and related sports.

White-water kayaking Over the Easter holidays seven pupils from various year groups came with me to the south-west of England to develop their white-water kayaking skills. Paddling four rivers in three days, the pupils certainly came away with more experience under their belt – it was exhausting! For many of them this was the first time

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in proper white-water conditions and all the thrills and spills associated with it. A fantastic trip with great weather and perfect river levels. Articles by Jay Watts, Outdoor Pursuits and Leadership Co-ordinator

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Physics trip to the Joint European Torus (JET) The JET site is home to the largest fusion reactor in the world and is located at Culham in Oxfordshire, a short distance for our IB and A level physicists to travel to get a closer look. The JET reactor’s function is to generate energy from the process of nuclear fusion and the group learned more about the processes involved in a talk that described how tiny hydrogen atoms are heated to 100 million degrees until they fuse together to form helium and release their energy. The JET reactor is only 65% efficient at the moment which means that they have to put more energy in than they get from it, but the hope is that this prototype for the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), will lead to the development of a source of energy that yields 10 times more power than it takes in. This may be 8 years in development when the ITER is expected to come online. JET is a collaboration between many countries and it was especially interesting to talk to the scientists working on the project to discover their backgrounds and hear their stories. What an opportunity this was on a warm day in May, to be fairly close to a place 20 times hotter than the centre of the Sun! Michal Hnatek, Head of Physics

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U16 runners-up at Queen’s In the U16 Rackets Doubles Championships at the Queen’s Club this year, Dan Holland and Aaron Tomson, both of School House, were runners-up in the final – an amazing achievement that shows how far this pair has come. The boys had an epic battle in the semi-final against Tonbridge, who were favourites to win, but they played a tactically astute game to beat this pair (15-0;7-15;15-4). In the final, against Eton, they played a terrific match but the loss of the second game was pivotal. The momentum was with Eton and the Malvern pair could not find the cutting edge to win in the final two games. (15-7;12-15; 7-15;9-15). Mark Hardinges, Housemaster School House

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Warwick University Chemistry Just before the close of the Lent term 30 pupils in the Remove enjoyed conducting experiments at the University of Warwick’s science laboratories – by kind permission of Nick Barker, a Royal Society of Chemistry Outreach Officer who is based there. These superbly equipped laboratories were placed at the pupils’ disposal and tutors enlisted to guide them. Their tutors for the day were PhD researchers who described the projects they were working on which ranged from the use of lasers to see why rhino sweat is such an excellent UV absorber (potential use in suncreens!), to research into the effect of practice and exercise on the thickness of neurons making the speed of nerve impulses faster. This application of science to real life uses is really inspiring to pupils at school and it makes the teaching of science immediately relevant because it has a practical outcome. On the day, the task given to our pupils was to synthesise two everyday painkillers – aspirin and paracetamol. They would be

employing techniques that they would normally only encounter at Sixth Form level under normal circumstances: heating under reflux, recrystallizing to transform the creamy-white powder into beautiful shining white crystals, and vacuum filtration, each an exciting prospect. The pupils took to these tasks very well and worked competently. Some groups had time to characterise their compounds using infra-red spectroscopy, whilst others used a technique known as thin layer liquid chromatography (TLC) to check the purity of their samples of aspirin and paracetamol. We thank Nick Barker and all of the staff involved at the University of Warwick for giving our pupils this opportunity. Dr Natalie Watson, Head of Science

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Megan Jones – tetrathlete Congratulations to Megan Jones (No.8) who came second in the Brecon and Monmouthshire area Tetrathlon qualifier at Bicton and went through to the country-wide competition held at Moreton Morell where she was placed in the top 20 in the UK. Tetrathlon is a competition organised by Pony Clubs and is a variant of the modern pentathlon without the fencing element. It thus comprises four disciplines: pistol-shooting at moving targets, swimming the longest distance in a set time, running 1,500 metres and horse-riding cross country. Michelle Nardone, Housemistress No.8

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How to be a 21st Century Explorer Ella Al-Shamahi Ella is a paleoanthropologist and spoke first about how she had to overcome her fear of heights to explore caves high up in the mountains. She admits that she may not be our stereotype of an explorer but the traditional look of the ‘man of the mountains, with a finger missing and a white beard’ is beginning to change. Her colleague at National Geographic, for example is an IT specialist who used a network of mobile phones transmitting from the tops of trees to monitor any unplanned felling of the rainforest. His mission was to help stop the process of global warming. “Do we still teach boys to be adventurous and girls to do safer things for a living?”, she asked the audience. (The resounding answer was no we don’t!) Ella has explored many locations as a Neanderthal specialist and encountered a few interesting situations in her work. Once, whilst descending a steep part of a mountain on her backside she ended up very close to a landmine and on another occasion having reached the entrance to an almost inaccessible cave, she had to abort the mission on encountering a venomous snake guarding the way. She went on to explain how the different disciplines of research connect together to help us make sense of the past. A particular skull, from an archaeological find, for example, was identified as having elements of both Neanderthal and Homo Sapiens origins as molecular biology experts had been able to analyse the DNA in the bone. The skull was from the period 40,000–50,000 years ago, and the research links both these species, identifying the evolutionary development of man. It turns out that many of us have Neanderthal genes in us today! Ella’s work frequently takes her to politically unstable areas of the world. Her next trip was going to be to the Yemen and Somalia. Research is collaborative, she says, and needs to keep going even if the areas in which you work are temporarily hostile. She finished with a strong message to the young people in the audience: “Put aside all the stereotypes that you now hold and find an area in which you are particularly interested, then make a plan about how you can pursue it … Don’t be deterred if the plan doesn’t quite work out the first time, adapt and refocus accordingly as you realise which skills are your best.” Dr Natalie Watson, Head of Science


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The Appliance of Science Pupils from Malvern Parish Primary School came to Malvern College in May, to take part in an engaging day of science designed by five of our Lower Sixth pupils studying the for the IB Diploma. Based on the theme ‘Acids, bases and the pH scale’, Millie Cox and Anna-Lena Barth took the lead in asking our visitors if they could name things they eat that are acidic and how they would describe the taste. They gave an introduction to the pH scale and explained that we often use universal indicator to tell us whether a substance is acidic or basic. They demonstrated the pH scale beautifully by making a fizzing rainbow in a burette. Our young scientists then put on their lab coats and safety glasses to get down to work themselves testing everyday foods and household substances such as toothpaste, lemon juice, window cleaner to see where on the pH scale these products came. Charlie Izzard showed them how solid carbon dioxide can be dissolved into water and to turn it into an acid solution by adding the carbon dioxide to a swirling mixture of sodium hydroxide with universal indicator clearly showing as the purple – the colour characteristic of an alkali. As the carbon dioxide dissolved into the liquid and reacted, the purple colour changed to blue, then green, then eventually yellow showing very clearly that a neutralisation reaction was taking place. Nana Asante took over from Charles to discuss the pH content in different areas of our bodies and showed the effect of drinking soft drinks (many of which contain phosphoric acid) on our teeth. He added hydrochloric acid to calcium carbonate chips to show just what might be happening in our mouths as fizzy soft drinks are consumed. The pupils saw that the chips were gradually broken down and enjoyed seeing the bubbling process. The clear message was that they should not drink too many of these kinds of soft drinks.

Finally, Miguel Ortiz-Flores took a very similar reaction and used it to show how to make a rocket. His rocket was made from a water bottle, three pencils, some sticky tape and a bung at the neck of the bottle. The visitors made their own versions and once they had constructed them we added vinegar. Once outside we added the secret ingredient – bicarbonate of soda wrapped in paper, then we put the bungs in the neck of the bottles and very quickly gave the bottle a shake. Moving swiftly from the launch pad we watched as some flew about five metres into the air – it was very exciting and great entertainment for the pupils. This was a great afternoon of science and learning for all. Our visitors had the chance to do some practical experiments and loved the rocket experiment and our Sixth Formers enjoyed their teaching experience and the tremendous reception from the Malvern Parish Primary School pupils. Dr Natalie Watson, Head of Science

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U14 & U16 County Boys’ Doubles Tennis Tournaments There was a strong field of players in this year’s County Doubles tennis tournaments. Hans Baare-Schmidt and George Blackburn from Malvern College triumphed in the U16 competition, Hans retaining the title he won last year with Luca Dell’Antonio. Mark Cox, Director of Sports Liaison

Football v Old Malvernians 1st XI

2nd XI

Result: 2-1 (loss) Goal Scorer: Mac Sainsbury-Plaice Man of the Match for Malvern College: Lucas Heappey An entertaining game with both sides trying to get the ball down and play pass and move football. In the first half both sides had chances to go in at half time with the lead. Michael George and Luke Tulacz missed good opportunities. In the second half, the game became a little more stretched. The College made changes and reverted back to a 442 formation bringing on Mac Sainsbury-Plaice. However, the OMs took the lead after 60 minutes with a sublime free kick from Adam Grech, left footed curled in to the top corner from 25 yards out, leaving Jack Bishop stranded. Mac Sainsbury-Plaice made the difference scoring a goal from a tight angle just inside the near post. Melvin Stoltze, for the OMs made it 2-1 with 15 minutes to go, and though the College huffed and puffed in the final 10 minutes they could not, unfortunately, get the equaliser.

Result: 4-3 (loss) Goal Scorer(s): Imoesi Ogwemoh, Luc Crompton and Josh Preston Player of the match for Malvern College: Federico Amodeo Malvern 2nd XI knew it was going to be a difficult day not only because of the miserable weather but because several regular players were out on an academic visit. They started nervously against what was a much bigger and stronger team and were two goals down within the first fifteen minutes. However, an injury to the OM keeper allowed them to gather themselves and redefine their game plan. Although Malvern conceded once more before half time they were growing into the match. ‘Super sub’ Imoesi Ogwemoh came on, glided past two defenders, played a one-two with Luc Crompton and capably put the ball in the net within the first 30 seconds of the half which gave the team some confidence. They then began to battle and grabbed another well taken goal by Luc Crompton. The OMs did manage to score one more but the boys’ side played a much better game in the second period. Josh Preston scored towards the close – a just reward for the hard work he put in throughout. Final score 4-3 to the OMs in what was a very competitive game in awful conditions. Matt Cleal, Master i/c Football


RUGBY RUGBY RUGBY RUGBY RUGBY RUGBY RUGBY RUGBY RUGBY RUGBY RUGBY RUGBY RUGBY RUGBY RUGBY RUGBY

Oliver Cook Oliver Cook gained selection for Gloucester U16 side this season and played in a tough fixture against Wasps before making an appearance for Gloucester U16s against Leicester Tigers U16s. He plays hooker and this selection was an outstanding achievement which I’m sure he can build on in the forthcoming coming season. Nick Tisdale, Master i/c Rugby

Worcester Warriors Cavaliers selection for Will Malvern College 1st XV captain Will Lane gained selection for the Worcester Warriors Cavaliers (Warriors 2nd XV) this season when they played against Wasps in April. This is Will’s second selection for the Cavaliers – wonderful to see him getting the recognition he deserves. Nick Tisdale, Master i/c Rugby

Will Lane and James Scott (OM 2015-17, Worcester Warriors & England U20s)

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Malvern View • Summer 2018

Izzy Lloyd – winning streak Izzy Lloyd has had a string of impressive successes in golf this term including winning the May Trophy at Gloucestershire County Golf Club. In the Gloucestershire Ladies’ Golf Championships competition, having completed 36 holes of stroke-play at Cotswold Hills Golf Club, Izzy finished as one of the top 16 women in the county. She then went forward into the match-play section of the event – no mean feat for a junior golfer. She lost to one of the favourites (who plays off a 1 handicap) but went through to the Plate (2nd tier) competition. Izzy won all four of her matches playing some fantastic golf and, after a tense and thrilling final, she won the prestigious May Trophy. This was presented to her by the GLCGA President, Jennifer May. Most recently, at the Knowle Golf Club in Bristol, Izzy won the Girls’ Open Competition with a score of 75 and the Droitwich Golf Club Girls’ Open with a score of 78. She is now down to an impressive 8 handicap. Well done, Izzy, on these tremendous achievements! John Cox, i/c Golf

U18 Football notches up an unbeaten Lent term The U18 girls extended their unbeaten run this term to five matches with a resounding 8-1 win away at Cheltenham College. They opened up a three-goal margin in the first 20 minutes, with Eleonora Bokun scoring twice, and Trinny Salnikow once, before Cheltenham College got one back. Almost immediately Chiara Hoffmann restored the three-goal margin, making it 4-1 at half-time. In the second half, the U18s played some excellent

football, with Vivien Kruse finishing clinically on two occasions, Chiara Hoffmann netting a second from long range and Molly McNicholas finishing brilliantly following a powerful run at goal. A great team performance and one that maintains their unbeaten record in the Lent term. Joe Gauci, i/c Girls’ Football


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U18 Girls v Wellington Cricket Player of the Match: Jemima Martyn-Smith The girls made history this season when they played Wellington College on the Senior at Malvern College. “It was wonderful to have this opportunity,” said their coach, Thea Brookes. “The result did not go our way but good cricket was played and the girls spent a lot of valuable time at the crease. The team was organised and inspired by captain Elise Black who was supported by her vice captains Scarlett Woods and Olivia Hyde. All three worked well together to run the team efficiently on the field and communicated well. “Wellington was unable to bring a full team so our girls rotated and fielded for the opposition. Always easier said than done, especially for Hannah Taylor who was underneath a catch that would have dismissed a team mate. Thankfully the catch was not taken! “The game was full of exciting moments for the Malvern girls, especially for Jemima Martyn-Smith who was making her debut for Malvern. She goes down in Malvern’s sporting history as the first girl to take a wicket on the Senior! A great achievement, certainly for a pupil in the FY. “Alongside Jemima, debuts on the Senior were made by Yasmine Allen, Molly McNicholas, Harriet Carpenter, Olivia Hyde, Hannah Taylor and Banita Dodhia. All of the girls played a significant part in the team’s performance on the day, they all batted and bowled with confidence and really impressed the crowd. Georgie Hartley was pick of the batters and another strong batting performance was displayed by Jemima Martyn-Smith. “The energy the girls applied in the field was fantastic. We need more match practice but that will come. They had a lot of fun in this match and where better to have played than on the Senior!” Thea Brookes, Girls’ Cricket Coach


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Malvern View • Summer 2018

Jack Haynes: Cricket prospect My winter started well with signing a registration (retainer) with Worcestershire for the next two years while I am at school, which is both an exciting and brilliant opportunity. I​ was also lucky enough to be invited to Abu Dhabi for the Worcestershire County Cricket Club pre-season trip in March; this was great experience for me as the youngest player in the squad and I learned a lot from being around the experienced professionals on the trip. I worked hard on my game and I felt this put me in a good place heading into the summer. It has been nice to start the school season well with a good first half of term for Malvern. We have played some excellent cricket as a group and it has been pleasing to have contributed to some good wins on the field. I was delighted to score my maiden W.C.C.C. second team century against Nottingham in a one-day trophy match. This was a great start to the season and I am hoping to continue this form in the coming months. Jack Haynes, Lower Sixth

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Future Activities OPEN DAYS Malvern College Saturday 6th October The Downs Malvern Friday 12th October Saturday 13th October For further information please visit www.malverncollege.org.uk or www.thedownsmalvern.org.uk National Schools Symphony Orchestra 2018 Residential music course for ages 9 to 19 at Malvern College 8th   –   15th July 2018 For more information visit www.nsso.org English Symphony Orchestra Youth Courses Held during October holidays at The Downs Malvern www.eso.co.uk/community/eso-youth

Worcester Warrior Rugby Camp Summer residential camps: 13th – 17th August 2018 for ages 10-16 20th – 23rd August 2018 for ages 9-12 www.warriors.co.uk/community/rugby-camps MRM Hockey Coaching Day camps held at Malvern College and The Downs Malvern www.mrmcoaching.co.uk National Pool Lifeguard Qualification Day courses run during school holidays for age 16+. Contact Tom Boyle at Malvern College Sports Complex 01684 581681. Kidz Club at The Downs Malvern Weekdays covering the Summer holidays

West Bromwich Albion Football Camps Day camps run during school holidays for ages 4 to 14. www.wba.co.uk/foundation/sport-development/camps/

Malvern College College Road Malvern Worcestershire WR14 3DF t: +44 (0)1684 581 500 f: +44 (0)1684 581 615 e: enquiries@malcol.org

www.malverncollege.org.uk


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