IntRODuCInG tHE KInG’S ASSOCIAtIOn
Bringing together the King’s community through events and our brand new website
REStORInG nAtuRE
Ross Wingfield tells us about his passion for wildlife and nature
FLYInG HIGH
Malcolm Campbell reflects on his life as a pilot and photographer
Lucas Lacamp (GR 2014-19) answers our questions about his Olympic debut
It has been a busy and successful start to the new academic year at King’s, highlighted by the launch of the King’s Association. This initiative brings together all members of the wider King’s community; current and former pupils, current and former parents, and current and former staff members. It exists to strengthen these connections through events, sharing news and updates and by helping our community to link up with one another via the King’s Association website.
Our first King’s Association Breakfast Networking event, focused on media, marketing, and creative careers, and the inaugural Quiz Night were both great successes.
Back at King’s, we have returned with a spring in our step after excellent results in A Levels and
Our work continues to overhaul the OKS for a new age… We are an increasingly mobile and interconnected Association where the ability to “touch in” or re-connect with other OKS at pivotal moments (such as a reunion, a change in career, move to another country, or wish to reengage with a sport or social group) needs a more flexible and sophisticated approach than the (still essential) face to face gatherings we have always focused on.
record top grades in GCSEs. Pupils have thrown themselves into the full range of activities with characteristic energy. It has been a particularly striking term for partnerships and outreach, with several House charity events raising significant sums for our charity of the term or causes selected by each House.
We also unveiled our Strategic Vision for 2024–29, which sets out our broad aims for developing King’s over the next five years, having drawn inspiration from the whole King’s community. Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and the full document is available on the School website on the ‘Aims and Ethos’ page.
Jude Lowson
Cover: Lucas Lacamp at the Olympics 2024
© Mike Lee/World Rugby
The new website is at the forefront of this work, and lots of you have already connected. You can contact any connected former pupil, parent or staff member, and give permission for them to contact you. You can access every activity we offer. There are the usual OKS sports and social events (with Christmas Drinks on 5 December and a very special OKS dinner at the House of Commons on 6 March); details on upcoming OKS
and School events; our programme of industry sector-focused careers events (most recently, media breakfast networking in October); access our growing network of student OKS university reps to connect and support new undergraduates; and find and engage with OKS across the globe.
The OKS exists to support past and present pupils and the School itself. The School faces challenges around the forthcoming imposition of VAT on fees. We want to support the School and you by reinvigorating the Association as we head towards its first centenary in 2028. There has never been a better time to reconnect!
James Phipson
We know that OKS love to receive the OKS Magazine through their letterboxes, and that digital copies aren’t for everyone. Listening to your feedback, we are proud to announce that we are working with new printers, Lavenham Press, to improve the sustainability of our magazine.
Our new printers hold the ISO 14001 Environmental Management Systems certification and they print the OKS Magazine on FSC accredited and carbon balanced paper. You’ll also notice new magazine packaging. This is a compostable poly-wrap, consisting mainly of potato and maize starch. There is no polythene in it, so no microplastics are left behind in the soil or watercourse, meaning it is fully compostable in your household compost heap.
In addition to improved materials, the OKS Magazine is now printed and mailed to you from one site, which helps to cut down huge amounts of waste and emissions that would be created from transportation between production sites.
Thank you for your feedback and helping to create a more sustainable magazine.
6, 10 & 18 Features: Canterbury Cathedral, nature and piloting
4 news from King’s: Social impact, staff leavers and King’s Week
8 Development news: The 1541 Society
14 Events: Dates for your diary
20 OKS Overseas: Hong Kong to Cambodia
22 OKS network: The King’s Association
26 OKS update: News of OKS worldwide
30 unknown OKS: A freelance journalist
32 Lives Remembered: Obituaries
42 Sport: Olympics and a life achievement
We want to hear your news and so do your fellow OKS.
Fill in the form on the address sheet or contact molly Burgess
telephone 01227 595669
email oks@kings-school.co.uk
website www.kings-association.co.uk
facebook.com/groups/oksassociation twitter.com/OKSAssociation linkedin.com/groups/35681 instagram.com/oksassociation
The OKS Magazine is produced by an editorial committee chaired by Jenny Grant (Director of Development and Alumni). The Executive Editor is Molly Burgess (Engagement Manager) who is assisted by Associate Editor Stephen Woodley (CR 1969-98) and Peter Henderson (School Archivist, CR 1969-). Unless otherwise credited, photographs are by Matt McArdle, the contributors, or from the school archives. The magazine is designed by Nick Ebdon (nickebdon.co.uk).
Although rain forced the cancellation of Sports Day for the second year running, most of the 217 events – many familiar, some new – went off more or less as planned. The Saturday Birley’s bonanza of sport, music, classic cars and much else included, this year, the OKS Summer Reunion where OKS gathered for drinks and a BBQ.
Romeo and Juliet in the Malthouse was the play’s fifth King’s Week outing, but the first indoors. This version was “set against a backdrop of 90s pop classics” and incorporated “new scenes with a more contemporary feel, alongside song and dance”.
Other dramatic productions included Hay Fever, The Government Inspector and Kidaco. Music featured
prominently and catered for all tastes: jazz, chamber music, the Symphony Concert, Dido and Aeneas, The Eagles and Music at Lunchtime. The Serenade was, perforce, in the Water Tower Garden, but was regarded as a success by the musicians (and the audience). For those in need of sustenance, there was Café-Théâtre and Il Bar Italia as well as the daily tea and cake. All this and art, bicycles, picnics, quizzes, talks, tours, and a multi-event inter-house competition won by Linacre.
The King’s Week art exhibition in the (old) Grange displayed a selection of works by the Art Scholars and Art Excellence group inspired by the collection of ethnographic objects bequeathed to the School by Paul Pollak. The aim of Paul’s gift is to enhance the environment and to be
Photos, clockwise from top left: King’s Week KiDaCo performance; Alex Patton; Sounding Out showcase; art inspired by Paul Pollak’s collections
educational, and Blackfriars has already made good use of his Africana, masks, icons, buddhas, ceramics and much more. Paul asked that the bequest should be known as the ‘Ecce Quam Bonum Collection’, recalling the spirit of Psalm 133. The psalm begins: Ecce quam bonum et quam decorum habitare fratres in uno. (Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.) A future issue of the OKS Magazine will provide a fuller description of this remarkable legacy.
Leavers in July included Liz Worthington, Charlotte and Stewart Hayes, Jon Williamson, Lucy Carlyle,
Kate Harris, Julian Károlyi and Charles LewisGardener. Alex Patton, who joins the School from Brighton College, succeeds Liz as Senior Deputy Head (the statutory Lower Master). Hester Galmés-Davies succeeds Charlotte as Housemistress of Kingsdown and Claire Frere, from St Francis College, succeeds Stewart as Head of Chemistry.
In a reorganisation of senior roles, there will be three new Assistant Heads: Jonathan Pope (Teaching and Learning), Al Holland (Operations, Events and Partnerships) and Matt Thornby (Boarding). James Outram takes over from Al as Head of the Sixth Form and Laura Mawby replaces James as President of the Common Room.
tHIS AnD tHAt
This year’s public exam results were impressive.
Almost a quarter of grades at A level were A*, the second highest outside the pandemic affected years. Seven pupils achieved four or more A*s with 15 achieving three or more A*s, and 40% at least one A*. Most leavers have therefore secured a place at their first or second choice university.
GCSE results were the best ever at the top end. Over half of the year achieved five grades 8 or 9 (equivalent to the former A* grade) and 53.5% of all grades were 8 or 9. 22 pupils achieved at least nine grade 9s, with eleven gaining 10 grade 9s and four 11 grade 9s.
Sounding Out, the School’s programme providing free orchestral instrument lessons to primary school children in Canterbury, was shortlisted for the ‘Best Music Learning Initiative’ at the 2024 Classic FM Music Teacher of the Year Awards.
The School was also a finalist in the Performing Arts School of the Year category of the Independent School of the Year Awards hosted by Independent School Parent magazine.
A Social Impact Report 2023-24 has recently been published. This summarises the ways in which the School works with the local community via initiatives such as Sounding Out and Saturday Smarties, and seeks to widen access through bursaries. In summary, 4,900 staff hours were spent with over 2,000 pupils from 50 state schools.
Janice Reid (Common Room 1986-87, 1989-90 and 1992-2010) reflects on nine years as a Lay Member of Canterbury Cathedral Chapter.
Some buildings draw us into their orbit, evoking a sense of wonder and for many, theists and nontheists, a sense of the numinous.
Such is Canterbury Cathedral, a focus of humanity’s profound desire for God and of human creativity in striving to express God’s ‘otherness’. Such endeavours are not just the preserve of clergy, but are also those of ordinary people in their search for the source of beauty and ultimate truth.
For members of the King’s community, it is impossible to overlook the Cathedral: its physical presence with its architectural perfection; its air of watchfulness over the Green Court and its religious and historical significance. Pupils and staff at King’s live and work in the shadow of that beauty and are, of course, part of the same Foundation. I have been asked to reflect on my association with our Cathedral and, while aspects of that are related to my years as Head of Religious Studies and Philosophy at King’s, with a classroom in Lattergate overlooking Bell Harry,
Cathedrals are not just bricks and mortar, they are also people-run organisations, which require accountability to thrive
much of my experience lies before and beyond that time.
My introduction to the Cathedral, at my father’s ordination there when I was a young child, remains a memory of being enfolded in a feeling of well-being. Many years later, when I left university, I became a Cathedral Guide, sharing something of its history and loveliness with hundreds of others from across the globe.
Soon after I retired from King’s, I was invited to join the Chapter (Governing Body) of the Cathedral as one of its ten members, composed of the Dean, Residentiary Canons and four Lay Members. It was a daunting prospect, and, indeed, in almost ten years there were times of great challenge, yet also excitement in serving this holy place, sharing in decisions concerning the flourishing of the Cathedral and its community. It was also a time of learning, not just about the complex layers of its daily work, but also the remarkable people at its core. There are 300 cathedral staff, many of whom are
distinguished artists, musicians and scholars, several of international renown. There is a palpable love of the building, professionalism and meticulous thought invested in each undertaking, large or small. While Canterbury is unique in having more paid members of staff than any of the 42 Anglican Cathedrals in the UK, they are supported by over 400 volunteers, contributing in a diversity of ways from Stewards and Guides to ‘Holy Dusters’.
Joining the Chapter in 2014 coincided with the launch of ‘The Canterbury Journey’, funded partly through the Heritage Lottery Fund which, among other benefits, provided additional expert advice to promote and sustain aspects of the Journey. ‘The Canterbury Journey’ is now complete, and yet a building which evolved over centuries needs constant attention to the fabric. As I write, the Cathedral’s South West Tower and Porch are gradually becoming visible again as the scaffolding is removed after eight years in place.
The Cathedrals’ Measure of 2021 was designed to foster greater transparency in governance and day-to-day operations by introducing formal accountability to the Charity Commission through the registration of Cathedrals as charitable entities. Canterbury has successfully joined the register of charities, along with all the other Anglican cathedrals in the UK. This is a milestone in the history of Cathedrals and in the development of charity law and practice. While registration with the Commission is a significant milestone, it is not in itself a destination. The journey for Cathedrals as charities has only just begun. Operating as a charity is a longterm commitment that is never ‘done’. There will be mistakes and there will be problems. Good governance does not fully inoculate an organisation against those eventualities. It does, however, make an organisation more resilient and more agile in responding to problems when these arise, and in putting things right. Post COVID, there are huge financial challenges: it costs £30,000 a day to keep ‘our’ Cathedral open and no Government funding is received.
As we move further into the 21st Century, there are other complex issues to be met. Canterbury, as with all Cathedrals, needs to serve the
community by being active, accessible, offering a safe place for all, and by being financially resilient. Cathedrals are not just bricks and mortar, or places of grandeur for worship, musical excellence, and ceremony, they are also people-run organisations, which require accountability to thrive. The Dean, Chapter and Canterbury Cathedral staff are vividly aware of the paramount need to be flexible and constructive in responding to changes in society by emphasising the processes and principles of equity, inclusion and diversity, offering warmth of welcome to all people, especially to those who might have felt excluded by Precinct walls or perhaps by their perception of Christian teaching.
Careful consideration is given to those events which will encourage people to visit.
Apart from
the daily services, offering beauty of liturgy, there are multiple events to attract those who might not otherwise have ventured inside ‘their’ Cathedral. As a Chapter member, I saw the opportunities these great institutions have for creating reconciliation, hope and unity across communities. Sometimes there are mistakes, and learning from these and responding constructively is vital. In a globally interconnected world, as the Mother Church of the world-wide Anglican Communion
Canterbury Cathedral continues to build strong links with Christian communities across the world, with other Christian denominations, with Jewish, Muslim, Hindu and Sikh communities in Kent and to strengthen ties with the Diocesan Social Justice Network in its support of refugees and people living in poverty.
Canterbury Cathedral is, therefore, a place of holiness, peace and beauty; a place where faith has been lived and God’s love made known for the past, for the present and into your future.
The first year of The Charter Awards Campaign has marked overwhelming success.
The charter awards are our mission to widen access to King’s to more talented and motivated pupils from every background. Through this 20-year campaign, we are aiming to double our bursarial provision by supporting an additional 50 fully-funded places. This will mean, by 2041, 13% of our student body will be receiving some kind of bursarial support, and 5% a completely free education.
One year ago this autumn, the campaign was officially launched at the Mansion House and we have been overwhelmed by the engagement and support of our OKS, parents and friends.
Your support is truly a testament to the power of our community and gives us confidence in our endeavour to never turn away a talented pupil due to family income. Thank you!
FOUR
Welcomed 4 Charter Award Holders to King’s, with another 2 set to join next year
75%
Achieved 75% of our Phase 1 Campaign target, which is to reach £7m £6m
Increased the Charter Awards Endowment, which funds these transformational bursaries, from £3.95m to over £6m
I, like many of you, am deeply proud of King’s, and acknowledge the very special contribution King’s played to my school years. I hope we can offer this opportunity to others who might not have had the chances we did, and in doing so, benefit not just those children, but build a stronger King’s community.
Kate Fall (WL 1983-85) Founding Chair, Charter Awards Campaign Group
Lady Kingsdown (Governor Emerita) introduces the 1541 Society, our new regular giving club.
As its founding Patron, it is with great pride that I introduce you to the 1541 Society – a regular giving club for friends who support the school with a recurring annual, quarterly or monthly gift.
of young people, whether this is through supporting transformational bursaries or our partnership programmes, such as Sounding Out. Our members’ generosity opens doors to experiences that shape futures and inspire aspirations, and for this we are enormously grateful.
As many of you will know, my connection to the School runs deep. Over the years, I have had the privilege of serving as Governor, and now Governor Emerita, during which time, I have witnessed first-hand the profound impact that a King’s education can have on a young person’s life.
The 1541 Society represents a vital opportunity for us to open the School to a broader range
If you have already given, or have pledged to give on a regular basis, thank you. Your support is providing the School with a reliable source of philanthropic income. If you are yet to join and are able to do so, please sign-up to our loyal collective – united by our love for the School and our belief that the education it provides is important. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a huge difference. Thank you.
Lady Kingsdown Founding Patron of the 1541 Society
1 Scan this QR code to donate online
2 Fill in the accompanying donation form and post it back to the School
3 Visit our website kings-school.co.uk/support-us/home
4 G et in touch with Darren Ellis, dje@kings-school.co.uk
Thank you!
me to make a donation
Ross Wingfield (GL 1990-95) explains how his career took him from conservation to restoring nature.
Some of you may remember me from my time at King’s. Most likely the really tall one; I am still 6’8”! After leaving King’s I took a year out to travel to Africa and save the world (this comes later). Sadly I only got as far as my local pub, where I secured a job and some pre-university drinking experience. After spending three years at the University of Wales, Swansea studying Zoology and meeting my wife Nicola, I left to finally explore the world.
Travelling was where my real passion for nature restoration was ignited. We spent the next two years working to pay for travel or travelling to work in places across the world. We visited Africa, Thailand, the Philippines, the UAE and we ended up working in tropical north Queensland in Australia on a man-made wetland reserve for a year.
Upon returning to the UK, I worked as an aviculture warden for the WWT, responsible for breeding rare species of ducks, geese and swans
We need to think about ecosystem restoration
from around the world. From here I moved to the National Trust as a Ranger and progressed my way to Head Ranger at Scotney Castle in Kent, where I spent 10 years managing the estate and enhancing the multitude of habitats there. This gave the space and experience to realise that there is a fundamental flaw in what we call conservation (the industry I have spent my career in). The clue is in the name – to conserve. The issue is that we are trying to maintain an ecosystem that is already broken and suffering, we need to think about ecosystem restoration.
This realisation may not have come to mind while I was at the National Trust, but my ethos was very much to create the right habitats and the species will come, not look after a site for just one species, because this is the last place it is holding on. Obviously, that attitude is not agreed with by all parties, and I honestly think that the fact that I am 6’8” and everyone is already looking at me gave me the confidence to challenge the norm and just ask “why are we doing this?”
I left the National Trust in 2016, having learnt a huge amount about how to manage sites, how ecosystems function and what to look for to show you what is missing, and how to deal with people. This gave me a huge boost in my next role as Land Management Adviser for the High Weald National Landscape (previously High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty).
When I started at the High Weald, regenerative agriculture was a very new term, people were sceptical about the whole thing and hardly anyone was talking about soil health. It is now a recognised, profitable and understood farming system, people are openly talking about soil health and not being given weird sideways glances, and it has even made a solid appearance on Clarkson’s Farm. I spent my time here working with farmers and landowners to improve their farm management for wildlife and countryside, helped them look at better grazing systems and worked closely with the likes of Natural England to survey and identify some
amazing habitats throughout the landscape.
Having done all this, I knew I wanted to do more and could offer more to landowners on a bigger scale across the country, but I was not sure how to do it. This is where fate waved a massive flag for me, and I was asked to critique four companies offering to write a nature restoration strategy report for one of the estates I was working with at the High Weald.
One of those companies had well known author and naturalist Benedict Macdonald working for them, so I wrote him an email told him who I was and what I am good at and that he should give me a job. Within three months I was working with Benedict and two years later we have set up a new company, Restore Nature.
Restore Nature now works with over 70,000 acres of land across the UK, helping landowners, farmers and charities to build biodiversity and, more importantly, bio-abundance on their land.
We help with complete nature restoration or just working in nature friendly farming techniques across a farm.
We help with identifying species that need to be reintroduced, from beavers and glow-worms to swallow-tailed butterflies and great bustards. We work with the landowners to create the habitats that should be there for the wildlife to thrive and find the funding to pay for it.
I can honestly say that I jump out of bed in the morning knowing I am creating a business that will help reverse the decline of wildlife diversity and abundance in the UK.
• Restore Nature is the UK’s specialist nature restoration business. Restore offers the full range of services for landowners to profitably return nature to their land. From 20-year vision reports to baseline surveys, land management, natural capital deals and species reintroduction, Restore help landowners scale conservation across the UK. For more information, visit: restorenature.com
Remember King’s in your will to protect our traditions and inspire their futures.
To find out more, please visit kings-school.co.uk/support-us/legacies or contact Bryony Dutta: b.dutta@kings-school.co.uk 01227 595613
Charity No. 307942
Charity Name: The King’s School of the Cathedral Church of Canterbury
On 29 February 1956, Edward Stanley (WL 195358) gave handwritten invitations to members of Walpole to meet at the Savoy on 29 February 1984, unknowingly creating a tradition that would span decades. Peter Venn (WL 1954-60) reports.
On 29 february 1984, prompted by Mike Bibby and David Edwards, nineteen Walpole House OKS met and after a drink or two retired to a nearby pub to dine. The essence of this tradition has continued every Leap Year since. On 2 March 2024 nine of the original group, including wives, widows, and later generations, gathered at St. Augustine’s for the eleventh reunion.
The day began with coffee in Walpole hosted by some delightful current Walpole girls, and continued with tours of the House – now with five star accommodation! From the top floor, you could marvel again at the magnificent view of the cathedral, whose influence, sometimes unrecognised, represents one of the gems and privileges of an education at King’s.
After drinks and an excellent lunch, Jude Lowson (Head) and Nikki Ridley (current Walpole Housemistress), both spoke to us with great enthusiasm about life at King’s. Under their
leadership, today’s young generation look set to benefit from the same holistic education we benefitted from in our day under Headmaster Fred Shirley and particularly Housemaster John Wilson.
Several followed on from Jude and Nikki, among them Hugh Barker, who recalled how as a new boy his boater had blown off in the wind and “a gaitered Red Dean had chased across the Green Court and rescued it!” Steve Challis took into later life the lessons learnt as “an inefficient and under-sized hooker for the House the importance of doing whatever you could for your team.”
Nicky Line (née Venn) spoke of “the burden of ensuring that as a girls’ house it would continue to be the same ‘special place’ it had been for generations of boys before them.” David Jones brought us to a thoughtful conclusion by reminding us of good absent and departed friends.
These Leap Year Reunions have been a visible sign of the strong friendships we made and the enduring appreciation we all have for our time at King’s. Hopefully later generations of Walpoleans will continue such unique occasions.
Many thanks to all at King’s who contributed to another very joyful reunion, especially Yuliya Campbell from the OKS Office; it was a pleasure to have her with us.
On Saturday 8 June 2024, over 150 Linacre House OKS came together to celebrate 70 years since opening in 1953. Mat Lister (current Linacre Housemaster and MR 199799 ) reports.
As the current Housemaster of 7 years and an OKS myself, this was a particularly daunting event because I understand how important this magical boarding house has been to so many people. Having just gone through 12 months of refurbishment, our hope was that the OKS would still see some resemblance and feel a glimmer of the house that will have been such a huge part of the their time here at King’s.
Sure enough, as our pupil guides returned with stories from the past, it was clear that I had nothing to worry about. Some described the house as being more like a ‘boutique hotel’ now, but still with the same atmosphere and ambience as in the past.
Chris Millar (LN Housemaster 1964-74) said grace and speeches by David Reid (Linacre Housemaster 1974-76) and Paul Teeton (Linacre Housemaster 1997-2008) set the tone for what would be a hugely memorable occasion. It was truly remarkable to hear the laughter, memories and love spilling out of every part of the house. I just wish that we could find another occasion to bring these wonderful OKS back home to Linacre. Looking to the future, it is clear that our role as Housemaster, tutor, matron or pupil is to pass the baton from generation to generation. We have a responsibility to uphold the house values and ethos.
Above all things, this day has given us great confidence that the house spirit is alive in a way that those who have built it over the last 70 years would be proud of.
Saturday 27 April 2024 marked the official opening of the Rausing Science Centre by Professor Sarah Gurr (SH 1974-76).
The ambitious project began in 2019 with the demolition of the old Mitchinson’s House, before a four-year build on a complex and intricate site. Beneath the new Science Centre lay a Roman road and important archaeological artefacts, while getting machinery in and out of the Mint Yard was no easy task.
More than 100 members of the local and King’s School community, including OKS and staff, attended the opening of this striking new building which provides six state-of-the-
art laboratories for physics, a beautiful science auditorium able to accommodate up to 140 and connects to refurbished facilities for the other sciences.
These will be used not only by King’s School pupils (all study Biology, Chemistry and Physics for three years to IGCSE, while a third of sixth formers also take at least one science A-level) but also to support the local community. King’s runs a very popular ‘Saturday Smarties’ programme for children from partnership schools, as well as Family Science Days and workshops for local pupils and teachers.
Professor Sarah Gurr (SH 1974-76) formally opened the building with an inspiring speech about how King’s shaped her love for science, helping her to go on to achieve an impressive career in science focused on plant biology. As she spoke, she pointed out her old study window in
School House, signalling a full circle moment. Following speeches by Jude Lowson (Head) and Mark Taylor (Bursar), pupil science ambassadors gave guests tours of the laboratories, with science teachers carrying out interactive demonstrations.
Jude Lowson said “Our new Science Centre is a very special addition to our remarkable school and to this stunning setting in the heart of Canterbury. We are deeply indebted to the many donors whose contributions made this building possible – their generosity has underscored our ambition to provide the very best facilities for our pupils and to be able to share these with our local community”.
DAtES FOR YOuR DIARY: 2024 has been a busy year and we have had great feedback on new events including the OKS Summer Reunion, King’s Association Breakfast networking and reunions in Hong Kong. We hope to see you at an upcoming event – save the date!
OKS CHRIStmAS DRInKS
Thursday 5 December 2024
Cavalry & Guards Club, London
SCHOOL CAROL SERVICE
Thursday 12 December 2024
Canterbury Cathedral
KSC & PILGRIm’S BOAt CLuB DInnER
Saturday 11 January 2025
Birley’s, The King’s School Canterbury
OKS HOuSE OF COmmOnS DInnER
Thursday 6 March 2025
House of Commons
ELGAR’S DREAm OF GEROntIuS
Friday 14 March 2025
Canterbury Cathedral OKS singers and audience members welcome
WALPOLE HOuSE 90tH AnnIVERSARY
REunIOn
Sunday 27 April 2025
The King’s School Canterbury Walpole OKS of all ages welcome
OKS SummER REunIOn
Saturday 28 June 2025
Birley’s, The King’s School Canterbury
PLuS more to be announced including breakfast networking, brand new King’s Association events and reunions later in the year.
More details and tickets available at kings-association.co.uk/events
Malcolm Campbell (MO 1958-63) reflects on his life in the sky, combining his passion for photography and flying.
Ilove travel, photography and flying, preferably unconventional and all together. So positioning an aircraft myself to take photographs of remarkable places is, for me, as good as it gets, though “wonderful” in the title above describes the sights rather than my photos!
Just before my last term at King’s, having failed my driving test, I obtained a Private Pilot Licence. This was thanks to an RAF Flying Scholarship won through the King’s CCF. It may be more difficult today to learn for free in this way. But you can still fly, as I subsequently did, with a University Air Squadron, where the RAF even pays you without any need to join them afterwards. Even if you bear your own cost of training then, if you can drive, flying will normally not be too difficult.
I was lucky enough to fly the world as an international finance lawyer, and some of my favourite aerial photographs have been taken from commercial flights. Even at night, the views can be spectacular, sometimes including an aurora.
Even at night, the views can be spectacular
In those days I would often travel first class and flew Concorde on five different routes. But even the cattle class I now use provides opportunities for wonderful sights, whether or not you take photographs. Today you can even follow your likely route online from home and so select a window seat on the correct side for the best views, while the aircraft’s navigation system may show you when you reach them. Also windows are often better for viewing and photography than they were.
Pre 9/11 you could sometimes get better views through the cockpit windows. Inflight access is still sometimes possible; pulling strings in lesser known countries can work wonders. Thus I stood between the pilots near Lukla, the access airport for Everest base camp, flying what is widely regarded as the world’s hairiest approach. On another occasion, also post 9/11, I not only visited the flightdeck while aloft but remained for landing. (Mind you, this was the national airline of a country which, if I were to disclose its name, a cynic might say had a pretty good idea where terrorists were, and so could better judge the risk of allowing me access.)
However my main aim was to use my licence to access wonderful sights. Ideally this entailed going with a local instructor who would allow me to take off, land and do as much of the other flying as I wanted, while holding the controls as I took photographs.
Having done this, off and on, for over 50 years I realised that I had never seen an article encouraging other travellers with a flying licence to do something similar. Moreover the tales of overseas journeys and any life stories in flying magazines typically featured professional pilots vastly more experienced than me. (There are of course distinguished OKS pilots in this category – RAF, civil or both.)
The editor of Pilot, the main periodical for private pilots in the UK, believed that my tale might encourage others, even those with limited experience or ability like myself, to identify for themselves unusual flying opportunities abroad. So, in the October 2024 edition, he included my story, accompanied by 20 of my photographs.
Left: Malcolm during his last term at King’s top: Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone national Park, photographed by Malcolm
Circled: Malcolm at Jackson Airport in Wyoming
Business travel had permitted special experiences such as flying circuits at La Paz Bolivia, then the world’s highest airport (13,313 feet), and overflying the length of Manhattan and back at 2,000 feet. I photographed the Matterhorn with the top of Mont Blanc in the foreground from higher than I had thought the aircraft could go. In Africa, I beat up sand dunes in Namibia and flew round the Cape of Good Hope. (An attempt to do the same with Cape Horn fell foul of relations between Argentina and Chile.) I was very lucky.
Anyone who would like to identify their own remarkable sights to overfly is welcome to read my tale which, I hope, may contain some ideas and includes photos of the flying experiences mentioned. Times change, and some of my trips may no longer be possible, but others I couldn’t or didn’t make will be.
• If you’d like to read Malcolm’s article in Pilot magazine, please visit kings-association.co.uk
The Admissions and Development Team have been travelling around, meeting OKS, parents and prospective families.
Staff from the School have made two trips to Hong Kong to meet with OKS and parents over the past few months. The first was in May when the Head Jude Lowson, Director of Development Jenny Grant, and International Director Nina Hunt made the trip in combination with a visit to two of our international schools: The King’s School Shenzhen and the King’s School Vattanacville.
Whilst in Hong Kong, as well as attending a reception at the Hong Kong Club for both parents and OKS, they were hosted by OKS Desmond Chum (GR 1986-91) for a delicious meal at the China Club.
After two nights in Hong Kong, the King’s party then crossed into China to visit the King’s School Shenzhen, marking the arrival of new
Executive Principal Mr John Wright and the departure of Founding Executive Principal Geoff Cocksworth. Then it was onward to the King’s School Vattanacville for a tour of the school site in Phnom Penh, Cambodia and to meet some of the staff alongside the new principal, Robin Silk.
Jenny returned again to Hong Kong in September where she was kindly hosted for the Mid-Autumn Festival by OKS David Pong (BR 1982–87) and his family at their home in the midlevels. The Pong family must be one of the largest OKS families, with seven OKS & one current pupil at King’s.
Also attending the dinner were OKS Chris Brooke (BR 1980–85) and his wife Crissy, whose children Abi and Alex are also OKS! What a lovely occasion.
A final treat in Hong Kong was an evening with OKS at the Hong Kong Club, generously hosted by Mr. Koon G Chiu (BR 1987–92).
It was lovely to see so many OKS across these two trips, and a big thank you to our OKS hosts Desmond, David and G!
Kajsa Friberg (BY 2021-23) writes on her experience volunteering in Cambodia.
Ihad the privilege of volunteering with TASSEL (Teaching and Sharing Skills to Enrich Lives), a non-profit organization dedicated to transforming the lives of rural Cambodians through long-term English education and emotional care as well as short-term food and medical relief aid.
While countless stories illustrate TASSEL’s impact, one in particular stands out: the story of Chenda, a twelve-year-old boy TASSEL student I met this summer. When Chenda was just a few months old, his parents moved to Thailand in search of work because of the severe lack of jobs in Cambodia.
When Chenda was seven – after years of listening to Chenda’s wish to meet his parents as well as his five-year-old sister – Chenda’s grandmother was finally able to save enough money to take Chenda on the bus to Thailand to meet his family for the first time. What Chenda witnessed on just the second day of the visit was a horrifying act of violence: his father brutally attacking his mother with sharp objects until his mother bled and collapsed. Chenda and his grandmother fled back home. Soon after, Chenda’s mother also fled home to Cambodia, where she then started to physically abuse Chenda, his sister, and their grandparents.
Chenda’s sister was his only source of comfort. To escape the daily violence, Chenda and his sister slept outside on the ground. Together, they caught tadpoles, ants, snails and fish to feed themselves as well as their mother and grandparents. Then two years ago, his sister drowned and died while trying to catch fish. He still looks at her photo and cries. In one poignant moment, when Chenda received his first cookie from a TASSEL teacher, he broke it in half and placed a piece at his sister’s photo.
from top
OKS
Chenda’s story is not unique. It reflects the harsh realities faced by many rural Cambodian families. TASSEL provides a lifeline for children like Chenda, offering a safe haven at their schools, where they receive free English lessons and, most importantly, love and support from dedicated teachers who visit their homes and care for their well-being.
Every dollar donated to TASSEL goes directly to supporting families like these and funding the schools where students typically attend for 10 years. 85% of those graduating from TASSEL go on to university.
• TASSEL support communities in Cambodia in a number of ways, by providing English Education, food aid and medical aid. The care that TASSEL provide will make a lifelong impact not only to students, but to families and Cambodia in general. There are many ways to get involved by donating or volunteering with a chapter.
Find out more: tasselcambodia.org
On Friday 11 October, we held our first King’s Association Breakfast Networking event focused on media, marketing and creative careers.
The event took place at HubHub, located just around the corner from St Paul’s Cathedral in London. Over 40 OKS and current parents joined us bright and early, starting the morning with pastries, hot drinks and networking.
The panel discussion followed and was expertly chaired by Yorick Moes (SH 1995-2000). The panellists were: Tessa Clarke (KSC Parent), Bill Scott (GR 1986-90 and KSC Parent), Elle Hill (JR 2003-07), Alicia Van Coillie (BR 2001-06) and Freddie Clough (MO 1997-2002). The discussion started with an open conversation about the big themes in the industry this year. Bill reported that there had been huge changes in the industry, including macro-economic change and detailing how the media landscape had become fragmented. The panel agreed that AI was the biggest change in the last year and could be seen both as an advantage and disadvantage. Tessa, who works as an investigative journalist and TV reporter, commented that AI is fantastic and can help speed up the research process in journalism. However, she also noted that AI cannot replace human emotion that can often be seen in TV news presenting. She gave the example of war reporting and explained that viewers would not want to watch a report by robot – viewers want to trust and feel connected to the reporter.
personalisation, including cookies and personalised adverts, can leave consumers feeling like their every move online is tracked and then targeted with an advert.
Before moving on to the audience Q&A, Yorick asked each panellist to share their best piece of advice. Alicia led with “Always be your authentic self”. Being yourself adds extra spark in your personality and helps your ideas thrive. She explained that she tells this to her clients too.
We had some excellent audience questions including one about building experience and success from a grassroots level. Freddie stressed the importance of helping freelancers who are often overlooked. He explained that being polite, having good communication skills and flexibility will help anyone in the industry. The panel unanimously agreed that young people are the future of the industry and often have the best ideas.
The conversation continued and Yorick asked the panel about the importance of personalisation. Elle agreed that personalisation was a good thing, but too much personalisation can break the trust of target audiences. Hyper-
After a few more audience questions, the panel discussion ended with a round of applause and guests returned to the business lounge to continue networking. Lots of emails and LinkedIn details were exchanged, and one OKS told us: “This was the most productive morning of my gap year so far!” We look forward to holding another breakfast networking event soon.
A big thank you to Yorick, Elle, Alicia, Tessa, Bill and Freddie!
Susan joined the School in 2001 as Foundation Manager and her job gradually evolved to ‘OKS and Foundation Manager’ and then to ‘Deputy Development Director’. A retirement book presented to her in July included well over 100 tributes from colleagues and OKS. A small selection follows.
Dearest Susan, you have been the heart and soul, the skipper of the OKS Association and it is difficult to contemplate the future without you at the helm. You are awesome and so deserving of retirement. However, this is “au revoir” and not “adieu” as you join the OKS club!
— Marc Dath (Common Room 1988-2019), OKS Secretary
You have been such an asset to the whole King’s community and a great help to me personally as well as being a friend. I cannot imagine King’s without you. Your incomparable knowledge will be sorely missed. Have a great retirement. — Andrew Stewart (SH 1965-69) and Governor
You were the clockwork for the OKS Association.
I appreciated your work and support immensely. You also have a wicked sense of humour, which always makes it a pleasure to be in your company.
— Charlotte Pragnell (MT 1988-90), OKS President 2014-18
I remember fondly so many of the musical events you masterminded during my time at King’s. You did it all with such professionalism, a sense of collegiality and unfailing kindness. Jenny and I were constantly in your debt! Thank you for everything you have done for so many OKS musicians.
— Howard Ionascu (Common Room 2002-13), Director of Music
I’m not sure how I would have survived without you reminding me of what I should already have done and keeping us all in order.
Liz Worthington, Senior Deputy Head 2012-24 and Acting Head 2022-23
How will I ever get to the right place at the right time if you are not there? I just cannot thank you enough for all you have done over so many years for the School and for me personally. I shall miss you.
— Rosemary, Lady Kingsdown, Governor Emerita
Anthony Phillips (Headmaster 1986-96) reviews the autobiography of Roger Symon (GR/LN 1948-54; Canon of Canterbury and Governor 1994-2002).
Roger’s journey starts in wartime Cornwall where he joined the evacuated Cathedral Choir School. He then tells of its return to Canterbury, his time at King’s – a favourite of Canon Shirley – National Service and his undergraduate days at St. John’s College, Cambridge. He describes the way in which he accepted his call to ministry – nothing dramatic – and what ministry means to him. His training at the College of the Resurrection, Mirfield remained a lifelong influence, as did his love of music.
Roger served his curacy in Westminster at St Stephen’s, Rochester Row, alongside five fellow curates – inconceivable to-day! There he married Daphne, a social worker, whose support throughout his ministry he gladly acknowledges.
Instead of the normal move to an incumbency, Roger was appointed Chaplain of the new University of Surrey at Guildford, successor to Battersea Polytechnic, charged with the daunting task of establishing the chaplaincy from scratch. There his two daughters were born.
to succeed the kidnapped Terry Waite as the Archbishop of Canterbury’s Secretary for Anglican Communion Affairs. These chapters prove the most interesting as Roger describes what was entailed in working for both Robert Runcie and George Carey and reveals the impossible demands placed on the Archbishop.
Finally, Roger’s journey came full circle with his return to Canterbury as Canon Librarian, one of four Residentiary Canons, though still at the disposal of the Archbishop. Finally, after retirement to Cheltenham, two important commitments occupied his time, establishing a twinning between the parish where he worshiped and one in Ramallah, Palestine, and his membership of Canterbury Cathedral’s Fabric Advisory Committee.
Next came a return to London as Vicar of Christ Church, Lancaster Gate – an exciting parish which Roger relished but which ended tragically when the church had to close due to dry rot and the parish amalgamated with its neighbour. From an unhappy situation, Roger was rescued by an invitation to join the staff of the missionary society, the United Society for the Propagation of the Gospel (USPG), which resulted in his first experience of travel within the worldwide Anglican Communion.
Much more was to follow with his appointment
This is a discreet memoir which avoids criticism or conflict. Nothing is said of his time as Governor of King’s. It is though a record of a varied ministry which few could rival, the author not only being at the heart of the Church of England but the world-wide Anglican Communion, making his ownership of Archbishop Davidson’s walking stick entirely appropriate.
• The Archbishop’s Walking Stick is privately published. Copies are available at £10.00, plus £2.50 for package and posting, and all proceeds will be shared between two charities, The Friends of Canterbury Cathedral and The AlAhli Hospital in Gaza, a Christian foundation run by the Anglican Diocese of Jerusalem, which is well known to the author. To make an enquiry, or place an order, please email oks@kings-school.co.uk and you will be put in touch with Roger.
In September 2024, The King’s Association was established to bring together all members of the wider King’s community; current and former pupils, current and former parents, and current and former staff members. It exists to strengthen these connections through events, by sharing news and updates and by helping our community to link up with one another via the King’s Association website.
The OKS Association still exists – it simply sits within the King’s Association. The good news is, OKS are not only invited to enjoy classic ‘OKS only’ events such as reunions and OKS Christmas Drinks, but they will also be invited to a range of new events that include the whole King’s community. We hope that this will create a sense of community for all members, and we have had fantastic feedback since launching.
www.kings-association.co.uk
A brand new website for whole King’s community. Over 1,100 users have registered already! New features include: Interactive news and blog articles • Event bookings Online Cantuarian archive • Ways to network and send messages to other users Online mentoring • Community business directory
John Pattrick (GR 1955-61) sent an update on his life and career post-King’s: “After graduating from Cambridge, I joined the record company EMI in 1965. I was posted in Stockholm then in Holland. I returned to London in 1973 and became Manager, Special Projects which involved specific artists such as Pink Floyd, Paul Jones and Paul McCartney’s Wings. In 1976, I was appointed Director of the Classical Division. I was responsible for the marketing of EMI’s international artists as well as signing UK based artists. In 1984, I was posted to Los Angeles as Vice President of Marketing A&R for Angel Records – Leonard Slatkin being one of the artists I signed. In 1989, I returned to London and in 1996, exhausted, I opted for early retirement!
A year later, I was approached by IMG Artists to set up an audio/visual division and become its Director. This involved working closely with BBC Worldwide creating an archival CD series, BBC Legends. During this time, I was also involved in special projects with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Santa Cecilia in Rome, and the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra.
In 2010 (and to the present day), I joined my fellow director at IMG Artists to set up a standalone record company called ICA Classics Ltd which produces and markets BBC classical archives and archives from other international broadcasters.”
Thomas Bewley (SH 1956-61) sends this update: “After 33 years in Abingdon, I have this year moved with my wife of 50 years, Marie-France, to an apartment in the delightful village of Woodhall Spa. We are finding a lot to discover in Lincolnshire, and we enjoy being closer to our son Richard and his wife in Lincoln.”
Michael de Weymarn (LX 1959-64) sends this update: “My wife and I have now moved to Stroud (from Shropshire) to be nearer to our A&E consultant daughter and three sons (an economist, England cricket physio and teacher). A few heart problems have slowed me down a bit, but I can still get round a golf course
occasionally and do cricket umpiring in the summer. I still act as ‘ambassador at large’ for the Old Wrekinian Association and am a member of the Independent Monitoring Board at the local prison. Six grandchildren keep us busy!”
Tony Williams (LN 1953-59) celebrated his diamond wedding anniversary in 2024 and is now the President and Chairman of the Bristol Branch of the English Speaking Union. He has arranged for two OKS to talk to the Union: Adam Finn (MR 1972-76) and Andrew Harding (GR 1980-85).
Howard Fair (SH 1957-61) is the Chair of Trustees at Southampton Sight – a charity that supports people to live well with their sight loss. On his 81st birthday in July, Howard abseiled down the Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth to raise money for the charity. He raised over £2,000 in the process. You can read about his experience on the blog at www.kings-association.co.uk
Francis Gottesman (SH 1962-66) asked the first question at the BBC seven-leader debate during the run up to the 2024 General Election. He asked what the leaders are doing to ensure the army is ready and the country is safe from future conflict. Francis received answers from senior representatives from Labour, the Conservatives, SNP, Green, Reform UK, Liberal Democrats and Plaid Cymru.
On 22 June 2024, Edward Holman (MR 196368) celebrated his 75th birthday at the Corner House restaurant in Canterbury. Among the guests were friends from King’s and former staff Mary Kemp and Sue Wittich.
BBC Two celebrates its 60th anniversary this year and released a special programme 60 Classical Years: BBC Two at 60. The show features a performance of Handel’s ‘Zadok the Priest’ by the Choir of King’s College Cambridge. Eight OKS were among the members of the choir at the time: Stephen Varcoe (GR 1963-67), Jonathan Alder (GL 1963-68), Stephen Lazell (SH 197072), Quentin Poole (SH 1971-75), Simon Davies (GR 1971-75), Mark Gutteridge (MO 1971-75), Charlie Coxill (GR 1971-75) and Mark Rae (SH 1973-75).
Congratulations to Nicholas Lyons (LN/BR 1972-77), former Lord Mayor of the City of London, who has been awarded a knighthood in the King’s Birthday Honours List.
Sir Nicholas was honoured for services to the financial sector, to the growth economy and to financial literacy. During his time as Lord Mayor, he championed his ‘Financing our Future’ theme as well as other significant initiatives including promoting financial literacy.
Sir Nicholas said: “It is deeply humbling to receive this honour which reflects the work of many colleagues in the City.”
Above: Edward Holman and friends
Left: Howard Fair
Below: Sir nicholas Lyons
Hubert Pragnell (Common Room 19732002) has indulged in another of his passions, railway history, with a book on The Early History of Railway Tunnels, 1830-1870, published by Pen & Sword. It grew out of his PhD research for the University of York. The Tyler Hill tunnel on the former Canterbury and Whitstable Railway, the earliest in Britain, but not initially for steam haulage, naturally receives a mention. He has also completed twenty years as a part-time tutor in art history for the University of Oxford Department for Continuing Education and membership of Kellogg College. Hubert has also been a Canterbury Cathedral guide since 2003.
Mark Dowie (WL 1974-79) was appointed Commander of the British Empire (CBE) in the King’s Birthday Honours 2024. He was also made one of His Majesty’s Deputy Lieutenants in Devon.
Mark sends this update: “I retired as Chief Executive of the RNLI in July after five very busy, challenging but fulfilling years leading the lifesaving charity into its 200th anniversary year. Having started with the charity as a volunteer after leaving the banking industry, I intend to return to volunteering in the new year. Since leaving the role I have been able to collaborate with a Walpole term-mate, Eddie Bishop (WL 1974-78), who, with his band Police Dog Hogan, recorded a Christmas single and video in support
of the RNLI’s anniversary. I make a small cameo appearance playing the trumpet for the first time since leaving King’s! I was appointed to the Admiralty Board as a non-executive member in February. I am one of a small number of civilian members of the board who advise the Royal Navy’s leadership on organisational strategy.”
Sir Hugh Robertson (BR 1976-81) has been appointed as a Member of the International Olympic Committee. He joins three other British members, including HRH The Princess Royal. He has served as the British Olympic Association Chair since 2016 and was the Minister for Sport and the Olympics during London 2012. He joins fellow OKS, HRH Prince Tunku Imran (MO 1962-66), who has been an honorary member of the IOC since 2019.
Sir Hugh said: “I look forward to using my experience from London 2012, the past nine years at the British Olympic Association and my time on the IOC Programme Commission to help the Olympic Games develop and thrive in the years ahead.”
The Times Literary Supplement of 29 March 2024 featured several articles by or about OKS.
Thomas de Waal (MT 1979-84) reviewed Mark Galeotti’s book Russia’s Wars in Chechnya 1994-2009. Thomas is a senior fellow at Carnegie Europe, specialising in Eastern Europe and the Caucasus.
Sarah Lonsdale (GR 1981-83) reviewed the Linnean Society’s exhibition ‘Lovely as a Tree’. Sarah is a senior lecturer in Journalism at what is now City St George’s, University of London.
There was also a review of Walter Pater and the Beginnings of English Studies edited by Charles Martindale (Common Room 1982) et al., which also mentioned Metamorphosis: A Life in Pieces (2023) by Robert Douglas-Fairhurst (Common Room 1990-91).
Diana Finch (née Curry, GR 1981-83) published
Right: Brian Sun and Karen Davison in Singapore
her latest book Value Beyond Money in August 2024. The book tells the story of the Bristol Pound, one of the world’s most famous local currencies, and provides thought-provoking inquiry into the function of money through the lens of the Bristol Pound. For more information, visit: www.bristolpoundlegacy.info
Karen Davison (née Roehm, WL 1988-90) visited Brian Sun (MO 1987-91) during her one week visit to Singapore in May 2024. Brian said: “It was wonderful to reconnect with Karen. We reminisced on memories of our time at King’s fencing club and our global journeys thereafter. It was a good catch up over nasi lemak and chiffon cake at the Coconut Club in Singapore.”
In July 2024, we were delighted to help arrange a visit to King’s for Helena Fetto (née Ancock, WL 1991-96) and her pupils. Helena brought 42 of her students and staff from the newly formed Cambridge International School of Saint Jean, Douai, France.
King’s Remove pupils studying French acted as guides and told the pupils all about life and culture in England. Jack Walker (Languages Teacher at King’s) also arranged for the pupils to try cricket for the first time. The initiation into cricket was so successful that Helena has returned to France and is working on integrating it into the school’s PE programme.
In April 2024, Qin Wiseman (GR 199196) started a new role as Senior Deputy Head at Oakham School. Prior to this, he had been Deputy Head at Wellingborough School for ten years.
Left: Helena Fetto and pupils at the norman Staircase
Right: Georgie Bingham and husband Angus
Below: Miriam Swindley
Miriam Swindley (MR 2012-17) has been awarded sponsorship to convert from being a nurse in the Royal Navy to train as a doctor. She started the course in September at Southampton University.
Georgie Bingham (JR 1993-95) married Angus Coats at Woodbridge Shire Hall in Suffolk on 24 November 2023.
Florence Walker (BR 2002-07) has become the Lady Mayoress of the City of London for 2024/25. Her husband, Alastair King, is the newly elected 696th Lord Mayor of the City of London.
Tatyana Kalaydjian Serraino (BY 201315) appeared in episode 3 of Rob and Rylan’s Grand Tour on the BBC. The series follows TV personalities Rob Rinder and Rylan Clark on an adventure to discover Italy’s greatest art treasures. Tatyana is an art historian and content creator.
Lucas Lacamp (GR 2014-19) was selected to represent USA in the 2024 Summer Olympic Games. Lucas competed in men’s rugby sevens and played against national teams including Fiji, France and Uruguay. Team USA finished 8th in the sport. Read his article on page 42.
Stephanie Andrews (BR 2014-19) qualified as a vet in 2024 and is now working at a small animal practice in Tunbridge Wells. Her sister, Lucy
Andrews (BR 2021-23), has just finished her first year at Bristol Vet School.
In July, Francesca Maini (CY 2015-20) came second in the 2024 Big Air Kite World Championships in Gran Canaria.
Lucy Procter (JR 2017-22) was crowned a world champion at the Hyrox event (pro-women 16-24 category) in Nice on 8 June.
Hyrox is a global fitness competition designed to test participants’ endurance, strength and overall fitness through a combination of running and functional workout stations. Lucy successfully completed the course with a time of 1:04:46.
Left: tatyana Kalaydjian Serraino with Rylan Clark and Rob Rinder
Below: Lucy Procter at the Hyrox finish line
In cricket news, Kai Smith (MO 2021-23) rescued Warwickshire from trouble against Worcestershire and helped propel the Bears to the One-Day Cup semi-finals.
He smashed five sixes and 13 fours in his unbeaten 130 off 104 balls, complemented by 75 from former skipper Will Rhodes.
Arthur victor hyde was born at Forest Hill, London in 1897, son of Edward Forester Hyde, editor and proprietor of the Fish Trades Gazette. He joined the King’s School from Lake House School, Bexhill in May 1910 and was in Mr Reay’s House (i.e. Langley House, 28-29 Old Dover Road). He left in July 1914. His elder brother, also Edward Forester Hyde, had arrived in 1909 and left in December 1914.
In the Great War Victor joined up as a private in the Civil Service Rifles (London Regiment), and later became an officer. He was awarded the Military Cross and the citation read: “For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He went forward and made a personal reconnaissance under heavy shell and machine-gun fire. He was twice wounded, but continued his reconnaissance until he was in possession of the necessary information, when, with the help of his runner, he made his way back to battalion headquarters and made his report. His determination and endurance were worthy of the highest praise.”
He then worked for EF Hyde and Sons alongside his brother – their father died in 1920 – but the partnership was dissolved in 1923. He now embarked on a career as a freelance journalist. One source of income was writing for newspapers. Of particular interest is a piece in the Kentish Express of 21 August 1926: ‘Inns That Made History – Canterbury’s Quartette of Famous Hostelries – Echoes of Thomas a Becket – About a German Ambassador’. The ‘Famous Hostelries’ were the Royal Fountain, the Falstaff, the Fleur de Lis and the Sun. Archbishop Lanfranc, the marriage of Edward I to Margaret of France (for which a German ambassador stayed at the Fountain), the murderers of Becket, and Charles Dickens all got a mention. Hyde concluded: “Four grand hostelries claiming two thousand four hundred and forty years between them. Croak the pessimists, never so loudly, Old England isn’t done yet!”
He wrote articles on a wide range of subjects, such as motor cars (and motoring laws), exhibitions, spring cleaning, and ‘Summer foods
Left: the terrible Ordeal of One-Eyed Mike Malone
for fitness’. Christmas shopping was a regular favourite and examples can be found in the East Kent Times and the Morecambe Guardian (1932), the Lincolnshire Chronicle (1935) and the Perthshire Advertiser (1940). He made use of his experiences – partly, no doubt, as selfadvertisement – in his Freelance Journalism: A Practical Guide to Success (1928). On the title page he described himself as: Member of the Institute of Journalists / Freelance Contributor to over 150 leading daily, weekly, and monthly publications. Late Editor on the London weekly and monthly Press. Author of ‘Writing for £ s. d.’ He had even found time to publish The Terrible Ordeal of OneEyed Mike Malone.
His articles were often signed ‘Victor Hyde M.C.’ and commemoration of the Great War was a theme of particular significance to him. He wrote about anniversaries of notable battles, pilgrimages to the battlefields and even about the gardeners in the cemeteries. He saw the Thiepval Memorial as “a great beacon… etched out on the skyline… You do not ask your direction on the Somme, you take it by Thiepval.”
To celebrate the rearguard action of March 1918, the Red Fox Comrades, later known as the Old Comrades Association of the Fifth Army, was formed in 1931 with Hyde as its official publicist. In the same year, he published Flanders Sleeps. This was a series of sketches, each being “a wordpicture of some part of the old battlefront as it is to-day, and recalls what it was fourteen years ago”.
He also wrote plays on military themes, including East of Ypres, At Company Headquarters and Carry On! A file of his correspondence with the Imperial War Graves Commission from 1930 to 1944 that includes several press cuttings is in the CWGC Archives.
In 1939 he joined the Officers Emergency Reserve but was invalided in 1941. His son Derek Arthur Keith Forester Hyde, a sergeant in the RAF Volunteer Reserve, was killed in June 1943, aged 21. In 1937 Victor Hyde had written an article for the British Legion Journal on Thiepval entitled ‘The Greatest No-More-War Advertisement’. He did not live to see the end of the Second World War.
(SH 1942-45)
Robert ‘Bob’ Breese died on 23 March 2024, aged 96. Robert was a member of the Robert Rose Society, formerly the Legacy Club, and we are grateful for his support.
Bob was born in 1928 in Maida Vale into a long line of successful people who served their communities. His father Henry was a dentist and his mother Edytha had been employed by the Secret Intelligence Service in Cairo during the First World War.
Bob joined his elder brother James at King’s down in Carlyon Bay, Cornwall where the School had been relocated in 1940. All he remembered was it being wet and cold! He left at 17 with a great appreciation for Shakespeare, music and P.G. Wodehouse and the family’s expectation that he would follow tradition and study medicine. During National Service he realised that medicine was not for him, so he went up to St Edmund Hall, Oxford, to read Modern History.
He enjoyed Oxford immensely, and appreciated how important it was in all aspects of his life.
In 1952 he joined Shell Mex & BP and held various sales roles culminating in running the South East Sales area with a regional sales force of 250 men and women. After Sales he joined Personnel and held several management roles in London.
In 1986 he took early retirement from Shell to take up an opportunity as an HR advisor at Singapore Airlines. He greatly enjoyed the work and the lifestyle, and stayed full time until 1989 and continued in a casual capacity until 2002.
It was in Shell Mex House that Bob met Anne and they married in 1960 and remained very happily married for over 60 years. Their collective sense of humour and banter served as a great bond between them.
Bob had integrity, honesty, resilience and was strongly independent. He was very sociable and had a great ability to get on with people and to make them feel welcome and appreciated. He died in March content in the knowledge that he’d lived a very full life and that is how his children, grandchildren and their nephews and nieces will remember him.
Dr George Hamber died on 7 May 2024, aged 90. His family sent this tribute.
Amongst his papers George kept a letter dated 31 May 1946 from Canon Shirley: “We look forward to seeing him next term, and I am sure he will find that to be a King’s Scholar of Canterbury will come to mean more and more to him as he gets older.” This was true. George loved his time at King’s, treasured the education he received and was a lifelong scholar with a curious sharp investigative mind.
George was born in Tallinn, Estonia in 1933. He
came to England in February 1939, but the War separated his family and he was left in the care of his aunt and uncle in school holidays. Boarding school enabled him to win a scholarship to King’s and a State Scholarship in 1952 to Jesus College, Cambridge. During National Service, he became a Christian and this led to a change of course from civil engineering to medicine. He wanted to save lives.
Graduating in 1957, he studied at St George’s Hospital. In January 1961, he started at the Mildmay Mission Hospital in Shoreditch. There he met Grace, and they married in 1963.
George applied to the Rwanda Mission, Church Missionary Society in 1964. This led to courses in tropical medicine and at Missionary College, and French language study in Switzerland before six years’ service in Burundi, Central Africa, between 1967 and 1973. However, there was tension between the main tribes, as in Rwanda, ending in repeated large-scale violence. George and Grace lost many Burundi friends.
From early 1974 to May 1998, George was a partner in a general medical practice in Eastbourne. Partners who joined the practice included those who had seen missionary service in Congo, Paraguay and Kenya.
After retirement in 1998, George studied for the London University Batchelor of Divinity as an external student and this led to him enjoying a more profound understanding of his Christian faith.
He moved to York in 2007 to be near two daughters and their families, and he dies leaving Grace his wife of 65 years, four children, ten grandchildren (one studying medicine in Leeds) and two great grandchildren.
(WL 1947-53)
Peter Dawson’s friend, John Ingleton (MR/SH 1947-52) sent this tribute.
Peter joined the King’s School as the first recipient of the Somerset Maugham Scholarship, awarded to state educated local boys who were required to board. He was allocated to Walpole House and was House Captain and School Prefect in his final year. He was awarded an open scholarship in History to Corpus Christie College, Oxford but undertook National Service as a commissioned officer in the RAF before taking it up. He gained second class honours in Modern History in 1958.
Peter worked throughout his career in senior administrative positions in the UK Atomic Energy Authority. He married Christine with whom he had two daughters. They were keen opera goers in London and the Cotswolds and were annual guests at our home while attending Glyndebourne. They were keen spectators at various other cultural events in Oxford and London.
(LX 1953-58)
Michael Plutte died on 22 February 2024, aged 84. His brother, Mark Plutte (LX 1954-59), sent this tribute.
On leaving king’s, Michael studied farming at Cirencester Agricultural College after which he married and spent several years farming in Denmark. This turned out not to be what he really wanted and he returned briefly to the UK before emigrating to Australia.
On arrival at Fremantle in Western Australia he was at loose ends for a short while until being offered work on a cattle station 2500 kms away in the Kimberley region of NW Australia. His agricultural knowledge was put to good
use there but did also involve the grading and maintenance of the only 200 km long entrance road to the property from the nearest main road and where at times he was exposed to crocodiles, venomous snakes and wild cattle. This was hardly the place for his wife and two young children who had remained in Denmark until Michael would be settled.
He therefore took a bus and drove the 3500 kms to Bundaberg in Queensland where he found employment selling farming equipment and especially sugarcane harvesters. This took him to several countries including Africa. Due to a near fatal car crash in the Sudan he had to be medically evacuated back to Australia. On return and after recovering he moved to Sydney and met up with his wife and children.
For several years he travelled all over the Pacific and Far East for an import/export business and eventually started his own food business. Due to ill health he was forced to sell the business and retire.
(MO 1957-62)
Peter Macleod Campbell died on 10 August 2024 at the age of 80. After Sandhurst he joined the Royal Horse Artillery, flying helicopters, and was later an aviation consultant. Michael Morpurgo (GL 1957-62) spoke at the Service of Thanksgiving for Peter’s life. This is an abbreviated version of his tribute. The full text is available on the OKS website.
Ispeak today of Peter as I knew him, as I cared for him, like a brother. It was in the Cathedral, at the first choir practice, that music brought us together. Peter could read music, had perfect pitch and a wonderful voice. I managed to hold my own only by following Peter. We sat side by side in the choir for five years. Peter was talented enough to be selected to sing a solo sometimes. Then on our last Sunday service before we left school, out of Edred Wright’s kindness of heart to me I think, we both got to sing a duet. It was the
1st XV Rugby
last time we sang together, but all our lives, for Peter and for me, the music never died.
And we had rugby, too, to cement our friendship. Peter played fly half in the Under 14 team, and we won every match we played. He could swerve for England, he could sell dummies for Scotland, he could kick, he could tackle. I was lucky enough to be his inside centre, so next to him in a formidable three-quarter line. It was Peter Campbell who made us look even better than we were. We played together every season after that, ending up in 1961 in a remarkable 1st XV, in which Peter was a star. I lived in his glow on the rugby field.
Neither of us, it has to be said, was brilliant academically. But both of us were keen enough cadets in the school CCF. So when our school days were about to end we decided that we should join the army together, go to Sandhurst, have more adventures. Sandhurst and the army took us very much in different directions. I lasted only a year or so, Peter stayed the whole course, and made the army his career, and a very successful career too, but we always stayed in touch.
In the decades of growing old, then older, and not always wiser, we’d meet from time to time and reminisce and chart each other’s journeys through life. We even lost our hair together, synchronised hair loss, you could call it.
And now I find myself here with you all, his family and friends, remembering how much his friendship meant to each of us. But let us not be downhearted. He wouldn’t have wanted that. Thank you for the music, the tries, the moments and the happenings. We shall treasure them as we shall treasure you. Bless your heart, Peter.
Christopher Michael Chant died in January 2024, aged 78. His family sent this tribute.
Having spent his early years in East Africa, Christopher attended both the prep and senior King’s School, going on to Oriel College, Oxford to read Greats. There, his main claim to fame was being part of the eight which went Head of the River in 1966, thus setting a precedent which has carried through until now! In spite of the work involved with this, he managed to attain his degree, but on coming down he had no idea what to do with his life.
Fortuitously, a university friend offered him an editorial job on part works about the World Wars, which put him on the path of becoming an author in 1974. He went on to have around 150 books – primarily military history and his first love, aviation – published over a long career. He was at times in the top four authors in his field. He also had books published on such diverse subjects as castles, steam trains and one entitled Rowing for Everyone! He was essentially a very modest, private, reliable man who also did much for the community here in the far north of Scotland to where we moved 20 years ago, but never desired any accolades for his efforts in both that and in his working life.
He had a fascination with the code names of World War II, and latterly had worked on a project run with his elder son on-line. The site (Codenames: Operations of World War II) now has over 3 million words and is still available to be read. He worked on it the morning before his death. Loved by all who knew him, he leaves his wife of 46 years, and two sons.
(SH 1964-69)
Peter William Aston Booker died on 4 May 2024, aged 73. His widow Rachel sent this tribute.
Peter was born in Malaya during the Malay Emergency. His OKS father was an estate manager for Dunlop and Peter spent his early years on various rubber estates, with his sister Jane, where they lived behind barbed wire, with a detachment of Gurkhas, instead of ‘fairies’, at the bottom of the garden!
Peter was sent back to England to be educated; first at Milner Court and then at King’s. He was in the 1st VIII, rowing for the School at Henley, the Head of the River race, and other competitions. He also acted in the School House production of Noel Coward’s Hay Fever; the first production to recruit girls from Simon Langton Girls’ Grammar School to play the female roles.
Although a very ‘bright’ and intelligent individual Peter did not excel academically
and declined to apply to go to university. Instead he took on a wide variety of other jobs. Then in 1974, while out of work and needing money, he went to the local Sainsbury’s supermarket to ask if there was a vacancy for a ‘shelf filler’. The manager recognised potential and persuaded him to join the management trainee scheme. Peter remained with Sainsbury’s for the rest of his working life, working his way up through store management to running a team of people installing new IT systems and training staff to use them.
In 2007 Peter fulfilled a long-held ambition to live in Italy, a country whose history and culture had long fascinated him. He and his wife Rachel bought and converted an old barn outside the ancient city of Volterra in Tuscany. Although he first became ill shortly after moving to Italy, he continued to enjoy and get the most out of life, making new friends and immersing himself in local society. He is survived by his wife, son and grandson.
(WL 1964-69)
Timothy Paul Clarke died on 25 April 2024. Pie Jesu, from the King’s School performance of the Fauré Requiem in 2022, was used at his service. His twin brother Jonathan (WL 1964-69) wrote this tribute.
Tim was born in Essex in 1951 to a farming family and was the slightly younger of twin boys. In 1959 he and his brother started at Junior King’s. In 1965 they both moved to Walpole House. From King’s he went on to Keble College, Oxford, to study agriculture and forestry. At school he had become expert at full bore target rifle shooting and he continued that at Oxford. He captained the rifle club.
From University, Tim trained as a land agent working for Cluttons in Canterbury, Strutt and Parker in Essex and then the Norwich Union,
overseeing the farms they owned right across Kent and East Anglia. There he met his future wife Ruth. They married in 1978.
In 1983 Tim moved from the Norwich Union to become the residential land agent for the Marquess of Bristol at the Ickworth Estate near Bury St Edmunds. He sometimes spoke of life working for the Marquess: of helicopter trips, dinner parties with the finest wine, of mid-morning cocktails in New York, of visits to prison in Jersey to take instructions, of flying (live) peacocks to Spain, and of organising the Marquess’s wedding – so extravagant that it left Tim needing weeks to recover. He and Ruth were regulars with the Suffolk Hunt, Tim ending up as both Secretary and Treasurer.
By 1990, Tim had a new job at the Grimsthorpe Estate in Lincolnshire, established as a charitable Trust by Lord Ancaster and overseen by his daughter Lady Willoughby de Eresby. He stayed for 30 years, and helped shape and improve the fabric of the estate and the life of the community.
Hunting and rifle-shooting continued to
dominate his time outside of work. He was a regular on Cottesmore. He shot regularly for Great Britain, including on a range of international tours: to Canada, Australia and South Africa. He was Treasurer of the Cottesmore Hunt and the West Suffolk Rifle Club; he was a long-standing member of the PCC and Chair of the Parish Council; and he was Treasurer of the Willoughby Memorial Gallery.
Hugh Aldridge died on 1 April 2024, aged 82. A service of remembrance took place on 16 May 2024 at Canterbury Cathedral, and many OKS and former staff attended. His family sent this tribute.
Hugh was educated at Wellington College and Worcester College, Oxford, where he won a half blue for hockey. He then moved to Uganda to join Teachers for East Africa (TEA). Hugh spent a year at Makerere University College and then taught physics in Kampala, first in a secondary school and on a second tour at the National Teachers College. This transfer was testimony to his outstanding qualities as a teacher. He joined King’s in 1970 to teach physics and went on to do almost everything else as well. He was master in charge of Games (1975-82) and coach of rugby, hockey and cricket, housemaster of Luxmoore (1983-91) and The Grange (1991-97) and Registrar (1998-2002) in charge of Admissions and starting the News from King’s newsletter.
One OKS, now a teacher himself, wrote: “Hugh was a fantastic housemaster and as a teacher myself, I realise what an example and influence he was on my life and career. He was supportive to all of us in The Grange in a quiet authoritative way. He certainly cared about us all. Even as teenagers we didn’t want ever to let him down.”
Another former pupil wrote of him, “A superstar housemaster, who embodied calm authority, empathy and tolerance, all the time displaying
effortless elegance and calm.” Many recalled him as kind, but he was clearly not a softie.
Hugh was also a family man. He met Jacqui in Uganda; they were married in 1969 and celebrated their golden wedding nearly five years ago. They formed the strongest of partnerships in which Jacqui contributed greatly to Hugh’s career, especially as a housemaster’s wife.
A close friend, also wife of a housemaster, wrote that living in a school boarding house is much more than a career – it is a way of life which demands the total commitment of not just the housemaster but also his wife and family. She said that Jacqui and Hugh shared their family life unstintingly with generations of young people, demonstrating through their generous hospitality that the love of a family is wide and open to all who need it.
What many people think of when they think of Hugh is him as a cricketer. While in Uganda, he formed the TEAMAKERS, a team drawn mainly from teachers on the TEA scheme. He and a Ugandan colleague also formed a team called
the Gypsies, which (in his words) was intended to be an antidote to racially and religiously divided clubs and would be totally inclusive. This was an initiative of which he was particularly proud. He played for the Canterbury Pilgrims and, especially, the Canterbury Harvesters – the Common Room XI on tour in Dorset. He was an elegant batsman and very good slip fielder, but primarily he was an opening bowler. The beautifully smooth run-up and the seemingly effortless delivery epitomised the man. Calm, no fuss, supremely effective. “He had an unquenchable enthusiasm for playing the game and organising teams and matches.”
Indeed Hugh was an all-round sportsman. In addition to cricket, he played rugby, hockey, and golf and was also described as a mean croquet player. Hugh was “tall not only in stature but in his knowledge, wisdom, dignity and humour. Such a well-respected and popular man.” He was “a very special person – calm, kind, insightful with a great sense of humour – a rock, one of life’s good men.”
And what is truly remarkable is how many friends, colleagues and former pupils wrote of him being a gentleman. He was hugely respected and will be remembered with gratitude and admiration.
Lieutenant Colonel Paul Neville OBE died on 27 February 2024, aged 95. His family sent this tribute.
Paul joined the Royal Marines in 1943. As a young musician (violin/clarinet/saxophone) he stood out from his colleagues as he honed a natural musical talent. He was appointed Principal Director of Music at the Royal Marines Band Service (RMBS) in October 1968. He had enjoyed a year’s sabbatical with Sir Malcolm Sargent and Gordon Jacob prior to becoming Principal Director of Music, immediately
becoming involved with the work of the bands as well as continuing his involvement at various meetings and committees involved with rationalisation of the RMBS. It was at this time that the Band Service had to be cut from seven hundred and fifty to five hundred by 1973.
He was a great supporter of the orchestra, and throughout his career he believed that extensive experience of the orchestral repertoire produced a more mature and capable musician in the band. The recordings of this period are felt to reflect this belief and the performances by the orchestra of the RMBS both at Deal and in London during his period as PDM were of an exceptionally high standard.
After retiring from the RMBS in 1978, Paul joined King’s in 1979 and enjoyed a successful
ten years as Director of Music, retiring in 1989. The valedictory tribute in the August 1989 Cantuarian from composer Alan Ridout included this comment:
“Emerging from the cauldron which is the Music Department have been some remarkably gifted boys and girls during Paul’s tenure as Director of Music. Many have started to make their way. Whatever their careers, they have much to thank Paul for. His daily insistence on such matters as the ‘right note in the right place’, accurate intonation, dynamics, and balance may at time have irked them. Yet, sooner or later, they will have realised that it is only through the meticulous attention to detail that Paul has always insisted on that their imagination can soar.”
After his retirement he continued to be interested and involved in music as an orchestral conductor, adjudicator and lecturer.
(LN 1972-76)
Stephen Graham Nicholl died on 30 March 2023, aged 65. His family sent this tribute.
Whether making pesto, playing a Bach partita or mixing a martini, my brother Stephen liked to do things properly. He came to King’s from Westminster Abbey Choir School. Music Scholar and violinist, Steve played an active part in the School’s musical life, but was also a sportsman, playing rugby and rowing for the School.
After King’s, he went to Cardiff University where he met his wife, Eloise. Graduating in history, a subject that would remain one of his lifelong passions, he worked briefly for the Daily Express, before moving to Hong Kong and then Tokyo, where he taught English at the Japanese foreign ministry.
In 1986, Stephen and Eloise moved to
Singapore where they had the first two of their five daughters. Steve also developed his interest in photography, allowing him to work semi-professionally.
Returning to England in 1992, he began a career in publishing, first with Oxford University Press and then with Pearson, where he became Editorial Director in Business English.
Steve took early retirement which allowed him to spend more time on things he truly enjoyed: playing the violin, cooking and entertaining. A wooden spoon in one hand and a glass of wine in the other, Steve would regularly cook for a dozen or more without batting an eyelid. ‘You need to plan and perfect’, he would say.
Steve died after a brief stoic fight with cancer. He had seen the weddings of two of his daughters. Another was planned. As I write, his first grandchild will shortly be christened, Cazimir Stephen.
(MO 2008-11)
Chizi Herbert Wigwe tragically died on 9 February 2024, aged 29. In this tribute, his two friends Ranulph Tees (MO 2008-13) and Nosa Omosigho (WL 2008-13), each share a story about Chizi.
Chizi’s pretence as a shy boy on his MO Welcome Day in 2008 lasted little more than 24 hours. No wonder then that ‘cheeky’, ‘crazy’ and ‘live wire’ were the phrases most often shared by his housemates in reminiscence. Herbert, as we called him at the time, was simply a joy to grow up alongside. He lifted the mood of every occasion with chaotic energy and infectious laughter, and we were very sad to see him leave us at 6th Form for school in America.
One thing Chizi adored was football. A football-
related anecdote that epitomises Chizi involves MO’s traditional back-garden game, which was played most evenings after supper. This session came the day after our housemaster, Paul Newbury, had asked us kindly to cease kicking the ball over the wall into Luxmoore’s garden.
Most of us took note, but the message didn’t quite register for Chizi. Sensing a chance for glory, he screamed ‘Ronaldo!’ as loud as he could and gave the ball a monstrous boot. Not only did the ball clear the back-wall, it went clean through one of Luxmoore’s plate-glass windows. To Chizi’s credit, he took the flak that followed graciously and was laughing about the incident within hours.
There are more stories like this than we could count. Always friendly, always laughing; we thank you, Herbert, for the memories and we will miss you beyond words.
Ifirst met chizi in class. He was always joking and making everyone laugh. I remember thinking, “This boy is so annoying”, when he would joke all the time. Little did I know that he would become one of my closest and dearest friends for 17 more years.
Our friendship began during a test when he peeked at my paper. I was shocked by the audacity, but before I could say anything, he looked at me with a puzzled expression and said, “Nosa, is everything okay? You got question 3 wrong…” From that day on he always had my back and showed his caring side between his jokes.
As we grew older, Chizi began to solidify his personality, embracing his own name and becoming a man. Despite being in different corners of the world we stayed in touch, either long conversations about career goals or dinner and drinks with friends in Nigeria.
One day in 2023, Chizi sent an article about Forbes nominated female powerhouses, insisting he would call to tell me why I was just like some of the women on this list. I thought he might forget—but he didn’t. That night, he called and
top left: Chizi Wigwe
Bottom left: Stephen nicholl
went through the list, searching for these women on LinkedIn, showing me the similarities he saw between them and me. I honestly didn’t know how to react. I was more surprised that I had someone in my life who was as supportive, genuine, and diligent as he was. I remember nervously laughing as he spoke, and he said in his stern voice, “I’m serious, why are you laughing?”
In one of our last face-to-face conversations on 3 February 2024, he asked me “Are you scared? Why would you be?” Chizi’s fearlessness was contagious. He challenged those around him to dream big and face their fears head-on. He made lasting impacts in the finance world, specifically across Africa. Though Chizi is no longer with us, his impact lives on. We remember him not just for the laughter and good times, but for the way he pushed us to be our best selves. Chizi, your friendship was an honour, and you are deeply missed.
Robert Willis (Dean of Canterbury and Chairman of Governors 2001-22) 22 October 2024
A full tribute will appear in the Spring 2025 issue
Lucas Lacamp (GR 2014-19) hit the headlines when he outsprinted Antoine Dupont to score a try for the USA Rugby Sevens team against France at the Paris Olympics. The match was drawn 1212 and the USA eventually finished 8th. He answers our questions about his Olympic experience.
Q Tell us about your time at King’s.
A I look back at my time at King’s very fondly, particularly to those I lived with in The Grange, to my friends I got to play sports with and to those who helped me along the way. I was also lucky that I had family ties to King’s, as both my father and my aunt went here, and I was reminded most days of my father’s successes as his photo and name were found more than a couple times around Birley’s! Being with the same core group of Grange boys really made the
experience at King’s so special. Playing sport was also a big part of my time at King’s and growing and developing this part of my life here was a lot of fun. I look forward to going back and catching up with everyone, hopefully sooner rather than later.
Q What is your typical daily routine as an Olympian?
A My day to day routine varies quite a bit. As well as the Olympics, we play on the 7s World Series which consists of eight tournaments a year all over the world. We train in the build up to these and then get a few days off to then do it all again. We will usually gym three times a week and then train on the field one to two times a day. We’re quite lucky that we train at a facility that supports all Olympic sports down here in San Diego, so we have most meals included!
Q Describe the moment before playing in your first Olympic match.
A Our first game of the Olympics was against France so that was quite an experience! It was a sold out Stade de France, shaking with excitement to see France play, as well as Antoine Dupont! I don’t really remember the exact feelings before running out, but I was as ready as I could possibly have been and the energy and noise from the crowd was something I won’t ever forget.
Q What was your most memorable moment of the games?
A I don’t really have one most memorable moment seeing as it was all such an incredible experience. Running out for the first game will be one, but doing the lap of honour at the end of the tournament will also be a special memory. Seeing and feeling the passion from the fans and meeting them as we made our way around the stadium was very remarkable and was made even more special having all my loved ones there as well.
Q What advice do you have for any budding Olympians?
A The only advice I would give is find something that you are truly passionate about and enjoy. Sport is testing, both physically and emotionally. It will give you incredible highs as well as lows that will stick with you for a long time. If it is something you are willing to sacrifice for, it will reward you. Surrounding yourself with the right people will help through all of this and make sure you have an enjoyable experience while you do it.
Q What’s next for you?
A My plan as of now is to try and compete for the LA 2028 Games, so I will be continuing rugby 7s for now but maybe some 15s might sneak in.
Stephen Woodley (Common Room 1969-98) has been presented with the Lawn Tennis Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
As a player Stephen first represented Oxfordshire in 1956. At Cambridge he captained the Blues side in 1961. His teaching career took him to Eltham College (1961-64), KCS Wimbledon (1964-69) and then the King’s School (1969-98), so he switched allegiance to Kent in 1963. He has continued to play in age group matches and recently clocked up his 200th match for the county (and counting). He has also represented Great Britain in Masters events.
The Award is in recognition of his contribution to the sport and the community, especially in Canterbury and East Kent since 1969. He recalled that when he joined Canterbury Tennis Club “Canterbury was a dead area for tennis. People played cricket very seriously but we didn’t even have tennis teams in the Kent League.” Now the Club, based at Polo Farm, has nine all-weather artificial floodlit clay courts, three indoor acrylic and two grass courts, and 16 teams in the Kent League. The Indoor Tennis Centre is one of the best in the country.
Stephen was the central figure in these developments and was duly rewarded by the presentation at the National Tennis Centre in Roehampton in July.