The Radleian - Winter 2021 by Radley College

THE

RADLEIAN WINTER TERM 2021

THE RADLEIAN

FROM THE WARDEN It is easy to judge a school by its buildings. It is particularly easy to do so at Radley when we have such wonderful facilities. It is easier still when we are celebrating our stunning new Chapel extension, accompanied by a magnificent new organ. I am very grateful to the architects and craftsmen, to David Anderson (Estates Bursar) and his team, to Council for authorising the project and to the hundreds of donors that have supported the campaign. I am very proud of the new building. Then I think again. It is not actually, for all its splendour, the building I am proud of. It is what it represents. On the day earlier in term when the Chapel organ was unveiled and the College united as a whole community for the first time in over two years, there was a palpable sense of excitement amongst the boys. They sang their favourite hymns with immense enthusiasm and spirit. That is what I am proud of, the Radley community coming together. It was seen just as obviously in the wonderful memorial service for Warden Richard Morgan the following week. In a context of post-Covid restrictions, nothing represents the joy of normality more. We are back together. I think it is often the case in schools that we look at the surface and are proud of what we are achieving – the buildings, the results and the grades – but forget what it is all for. Why do we do what we do? We live in an age obsessed by measurable outcomes and so often revert to type in our analysis of education; have we met our targets? But when we think about it, we know that education is about much more than that. For me it is what I love about boarding schools; we can spend more time and energy on what is intangible. Are the boys happy? Are they being inspired? Are they developing character and personality? Are they being prepared for life beyond? The Radleian, as ever it does, describes so many of the opportunities and achievements of the boys. Rightly so. But as you read them, remember why we do it. We care about the measurement of success. Dare I say it, though, we care about the intangible things more.

John Moule Warden

THE RADLEIAN

SHELLS’ FIRST MONTH T

he magic of new beginnings filled our campus in September as the Shells settled into life at Radley. We asked three boys to share their experiences of their first month at Radley with Mrs Beattie, Head of Shells. • Will is in K Social. He previously went to Brockhurst, a prep school in Newbury. • DingDing joined Radley from the Beijing City International School. He is in D Social. • Jose came to Radley from Walhampton. His family live in Barcelona, but he calls B Social home during term time. RB: You’ve just completed your first month at Radley. What has been the highlight for you so far? D: There have been so many. Radley is very different to Beijing, so I’ve loved being in such a green and peaceful place. I enjoy performing, so The Haddon Cup was a major highlight; even more so because I won the award for Best Actor, but most of all it’s probably the time spent with friends in Social and enjoying new experiences. W: That’s easy, winning the Shell Tug of War competition. We gave it our all and that really bonded us together as a group. I’ll never forget the older boys cheering as we lifted the trophy. It was a great start to my time at Radley. I love my rugby too and my coaches put me forward to be in the first Warden’s XV of the year, which was a proud moment.

J: There isn’t one specific highlight for me, but I really like how the dons push us academically and encourage us to look at problems from different angles. It amazes me how much I learn in a 40-minute lesson! I feel very lucky to be here. RB: Boys come to Radley from across the world with a range of different experiences. For many boys, boarding is a new thing. How have you found it? W: You quickly become part of a big band of brothers. I had boarded a little bit at prep school, but we were all quite separate. At Radley, we’re all in it together. We get on well in my Social, and there’s no deference between the Shells and the 6.2s, so you genuinely feel very comfortable. With 60 boys living together, there’s always going to be the odd argument, but when you wake up the next day it’s all forgotten! J: I’ve loved it. In B Social, all the boys are on one corridor so we’re always chatting, playing table tennis, or running up and down the corridors. Mr Scott-Malden is fantastic and makes sure that the Social is a really fun place to be, which is important when you’re away from home. RB: The great thing about Radley is that there’s so many activities to try. Have you discovered any new passions here? D: I’d never played rugby before, so it was great to play in a team. I started in Midgets 8, but I made it to Midgets 5 quickly. Squash was also a new sport for me. The Shell Circus was a fantastic

DingDing (left)

way to try everything, and I’m delighted that I’ve been able to take my swimming more seriously this term. W: I’ve really enjoyed Squash. I hadn’t played or heard of it before, but it’s a really quick and skilful game, which I like. RB: What would your advice be to next year’s new Shells? D: Don’t be afraid to share your opinion and speak your mind. There’s so much going on and it’s easy to get pulled in lots of different directions, so it’s important to put yourself first sometimes.

Will

Jose

W: Trust the staff, they know what’s best. Whether it’s the set you get put in, a sport they think you’ll be good at or some advice about settling into the Social, listen to them and you won’t go too far wrong (well, I haven’t yet!). J: Try everything, be fully committed to your passions, and make sure you get enough sleep. Radley is busy and you’ll need a lot of energy, so don’t feel bad about getting an early night every so often.

Rebecca Beattie, Head of Shells

THE RADLEIAN

RADLEY ZOO T

he Radley Biology Department has become increasingly renowned for its animal collections, affectionately known as the Radley Zoo. Our Head of Biology, Michael Noone reflects on the collection and introduces some of the species that call the College home.

Whilst it’s tempting to consider acquiring larger species (can you imagine a herd of gazelle chasing the K Social Shells across the lawn?), we are more than content with our family of ‘small uglies’ – unique and interesting creatures that can often go unnoticed and uncared for in the wild.

prospective pupils. It is easy to be impressed by the sheer presence of our snakes, but it is the stories they tell which are most fascinating. Our pythons and boas all have claws for example, vestigial organ remnants of their ancestral feet and legs, and the corn snakes come in a variety of colours that neatly illustrate genetic patterns and remind us how similar we are to them. The scales and hair are exactly the same chemical, Keratin, and the colour varies naturally just as it does in humans. I can often be seen pacing the hallowed corridors of Queen’s Court with a snake or two in tow, but boys also enjoy a snake basking on their neck in lessons. Surprisingly, our only venomous snake is actually the friendliest – quite a good thing, as I’ve noticed that parents prefer their sons alive at the end of term!

Of all our residents, it is our snakes that usually steal the show, and Johann, the friendly Boa constrictor, is often tempted out of his tank during visits by

Although our geckos, lizards, turtles, and tortoises are wonderful company, it is often the smaller animals that are most fascinating. I love teaching our

During a recent trip to Bristol Zoo, it was pointed out that Radley is home to about one tenth of the species in the zoo; modest, but a decent percentage for a school on the outskirts of Oxford!

boys about disruptive selection using the Madagascan hissing cockroaches or looking at the exaggerated front legs on a tailless whip scorpion. As well as using the animals as part of the Biology curriculum, we run about 10 hours of Animal Society a term, where boys come and handle the creatures, feed them, and even take part in vivarium maintenance. Most of these sessions take place in the evening, so they can help to feed our nocturnal sugar gliders. These small marsupials have a winged suit, so they can fly from boy to boy in search of locust treats! It’s our job as teachers to instil a love of learning in our boys and I truly believe that our extensive animal collection helps us to do that and much more. When I see the enthusiasm on the faces of new Shells, I know that we’re doing something right, even if 300 animals can be a bit loud sometimes!

THE RADLEIAN

RADLEY VIDEO THROUGH THE LENS T

here can’t be many schools that can boast their own in-house video department, and even fewer will have the luxury of professional equipment and editing software. But surely no school has enjoyed the quality and quantity of video recordings that Radley has been blessed with for so long. Whether developing a full-length feature film, live streaming a fixture on Bigside or scripting a best-in-class promotional film for prospective parents, Radley Video has always delivered. In this special feature, we look at the evolution of our video unit from 1989 to the present day and speak to the boys and staff who have made Radley Video one of the most unique threads in the tapestry of our great history. After the filming of the BBC Public School documentary in 1979, Radley had become accustomed to having cameras around the campus. Despite the initial reservations, the success of the project had opened Radley’s eyes to the potential of video and the role it could play in creating an archive of College life. The arrival of Max Horsey in 1989 provided the perfect stimulus. Max, who came to Radley to teach Electronics and Physics, was already an avid filmmaker with a premiere at the National Film Theatre under his belt: “I’d never experienced anything remotely like Radley before, I was completely infatuated by the place; the architecture and the personality, it was a filmmaker’s dream.” He couldn’t believe his luck when the Head of DT “waltzed” into a meeting early in his first term and announced that the College had been given £20,000 to invest in video equipment. It was a matter of seconds before the young don had volunteered to lead the newly

formed Film Production Society. “It was about ten times the size of any budget I’d ever had. It sounds crazy to say it now but £20,000 didn’t actually buy much equipment back then because video was so new and expensive, but we got a couple of decent cameras and a few other toys and we were on our way.” Dennis Silk’s retirement in 1991 provided the ideal opportunity for Max to flex his filmmaking muscles and showcase the strides the Society had taken in its first year. With the support of a loyal army of boys who acted as cameramen, runners, producers, scriptwriters and actors, the first Glimpses of Radley film was premiered to great acclaim. The filming of school productions and streaming of sports fixtures followed, and many boys approached Max to make short films of stories they’d written in English lessons. “I’ve always been fascinated and a bit surprised by the sheer number of boys who have wanted to get involved. When we started out, most boys were just looking for something different that wasn’t artistic performance or team sport, but Radley Video is now the main co-curricular activity for many boys, which is fantastic.”

Whatever their ambitions, Max has always given boys a warm welcome, with plenty of biscuits for sustenance along the way; the least he could offer knowing they were agreeing to lump heavy cameras and tripods around an 800-acre campus for five years! But it’s Max’s relentless commitment to quality and his innate ability to mentor boys in all aspects of filmmaking that transcends his output. This is clearly evidenced by the significant and growing number of Old Radleians now pursuing careers at the apex of the film and television production industry. Ed Boase (B, 1993) made his first film at Radley in 1997 and convinced Desmond Llwelyn of James Bond fame to star in Taboo. He now runs the Young Film Academy with fellow Old Radleian James Walker (B, 1994). After Radley and Durham, Jamie Campbell (A, 1990) became a film producer and is currently the Executive Producer of the hit Netflix show, Sex Education. He said, “The Video Unit was an incredible resource, and Max was such an encourager of us using, understanding, and experimenting with the equipment. Not only that, but he also then helped produce, promote,

and sell the films we made. It was quite a side-line and we were very, very lucky beneficiaries.” The current crop of boy videographers is also eager to pursue careers in film. George (6.1, C Social) commented, “Mr Horsey has been an inspiration for me since the Shells. It is evident how passionate and knowledgeable he is, and I feel extremely lucky to have had the opportunity to work with him. I am hoping to pursue a career in film, and I know that being part of Radley Video will give me a head start in the real world.” Arthur (6.1, E Social) said, “Mr Horsey creates a vibrant atmosphere within the Video Unit, where boys of all ages are able to pitch ideas for projects with the assurance that they will all be considered equally. In post-production all suggestions are discussed openly, which ensures the final product is of the highest possible quality. Mr Horsey has been a great friend and mentor to me; it’s clear that he is immensely passionate about film production, and it has been an honour to share that passion with him.” At 32 years old, Radley Video predates Queen’s Court and J, K and L Socials so its credits are long and fulsome, but there has certainly been a star of the show. Thank you, Max, and long may the films roll.

THE RADLEIAN

FOOTFALL EXHIBITION O

ne of Summertown’s most famous residents once wrote, “It’s a dangerous business, Frodo, going out of your door. You step onto the road, and if you don’t keep your feet, there’s no knowing where you might be swept off to.” Ruth Tufnell, Director of Art, tells us how Radley artists ensured Tolkien’s legend lived on in Summertown this autumn.

path of exploration. For inspiration, the Shells had studied several figurative artists including Auguste Rodin, Henry Moore, Jacob Epstein, Alberto Giacometti and Antony Gormley. The finished feet aimed to illustrate the significance of each young person taking their first steps in an uncertain world and the impression that each of them can leave.

Footfall was a recent exhibition of feet sculptures by the 2020 Shells held at the Turrill Sculpture Garden in Summertown. The exhibition displayed over 140 bronze glazed feet, moulded in Modroc and clay, and then caste with a metallic finish.

Charlie (Remove, C Social), who took part in the project, told me, “When I saw the outcome, I was pleasantly surprised, the foot I made looked very good and I was happy with it. It was a great project to be part of.” His comments were echoed by Kit, also of C Social, who said, “I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Making the feet sculpture was very

Individual feet snaked around the peaceful sculpture gardens in a twisting

strange. I thought the moulds would just shrink and that my sculpture would come out badly damaged however this didn’t happen, and my sculpture remained in the clear shape of a foot. I found clay very easy to use inside my mould because I could fit it neatly into all the toe spaces. Overall, I loved this project and how it came out.” In addition to the feet sculptures, there were also a number of other outdoor sculptures by Old Radleians and current students, which ensured the exhibition was a popular day out. The garden’s many visitors were suitably impressed.

MUSIC FLOOD WEEK T

he decline of primary school music is well documented in the national press. The State of Play, a report by the Musicians’ Union, reported that 25% of primary school children receive just two and a half hours of music education in an academic year. Our Director of Music, Sam Gladstone, tells us how Radley Partnerships aimed to tackle the problem. Music Flood Week was conceived to be a celebration of primary school music, but as we spoke to our partner schools, they told us that singing and instrumental lessons had to take a back seat during the pandemic. We wanted to tackle this issue head-on by taking music into every primary school in Abingdon, every day for a whole week. Over 2000 children took part in ‘meet a musician’ assemblies with professional performers; 1000 children took part in singing workshops, and 11 primary schools welcomed Radleians to busk in their playgrounds.

“Our partnerships programme isn’t about grabbing headlines or patting ourselves on the back for good work, it’s about solving real problems. Music Flood is a perfect example. Our partner primary schools told us that the pandemic had exacerbated an existing problem; there isn’t enough music! Our staff and boys were incredibly eager to craft a solution and this wonderful week of music making was born.” John Sparks, Director of Partnerships

The week culminated with a performance in Abingdon Market Square. Rose Martin, our Music Partnerships Coordinator, led 200 children, professional musicians and Radleians in song to a large and appreciative lunchtime audience. The joy of music making was truly alive. But this is just the start. We are looking forward to working with local schools to encourage more children to learn musical instruments; developing resources for singing in schools; building a programme of massed performance opportunities, and linking secondary school mentors with primary school musicians. This is an incredibly exciting time for music in Abingdon and I’m very proud that Radley is leading the way!

THE RADLEIAN

THIS HOUSE R

adley Drama’s annual play is always a highlight of the College calendar, and this year was no different. James Graham’s This House provided a witty and intriguing delve into one of Britain’s most complicated political periods. Archie (6.2, B Social) reports. As the house lights dimmed in the Theatre, I was hesitantly expecting the rest of my evening to be swallowed by the monotony and boredom that some people associate with politics. Therefore, I am incredibly happy to say that this was instantly shattered by the outbreak of a live rendition of ‘Anarchy in the UK’ to start the play, which immediately placed the audience in the frenzy of this fastpaced production.

This was one of the most quick-witted and humorous plays that I have seen at Radley, with quips and clever one-liners poured into almost every scene. What made it even more enjoyable was the fact that the cast clearly had as much fun as the audience. As for the play itself, the narrative follows the hung Labour parliament during the latter half of the 20th century and the actions of the chief and deputy whips in the two parties to either collapse the government or stave off the following five years against all odds. Tom (6.2, B Social) as Mellish, Dominic (6.2, K Social) as Atkins, and Fraser (6.2, G Social) as Weatherill stood out as the most notable performances,

each perfectly encapsulating the character they were portraying, either a working class lad or a pair of privileged Tories. Their portrayals were expertly delivered as the beating heart of their respective parties. Of course, it would be impossible to mention a production without the core of the department itself. As always, the design team outdid themselves. Costumes replicating the suits of the time, undercut by a series of colourful shirts, ties and shoes representing the cultural explosion found in Britain were both bold and detailed. The set design perfectly created a miniature House of Commons upstage, with two rooms framing the stage acting as the whips’ offices, Labour on the left,

and the Tories on the right, their significance at a specific scene reinforced by the atmospheric lighting, illuminating areas of importance for the audience to see. In a very confusing and tumultuous time, I greatly appreciated being able to forget about everything for an evening and experience a piece of art which many people have put a lot of time and effort into, resulting in a funny and, at times, emotional retelling of an equally confusing and uncertain time in our past. I am looking forward to what comes next.

THE RADLEIAN

RUGBY REVIEW

for the final day of term, the scene was set for an epic rematch.

Radley kicked the year off with a senior tour to Exeter University, culminating in a fixture against Exeter College, a team with many Exeter Chiefs academy players in their ranks. The boys started in style, scoring four excellent firsthalf tries, including one by Freddie (6.2, B Social) that will live long in the memory. With a pre-season block against Marlborough College, extra time was spent ensuring the boys were conditioned for contact, particularly after an absence of almost two years. 18 teams proudly pulled on their red and white hoops to play a series of conditioned games on Saturday 11 September. Bigside laid down a marker thanks to a 37-0 victory over the blue and whites and, with a fully competitive block against Marlborough scheduled

The first proper block fixture was the following Saturday against Sherborne, our oldest rivals, against whom Radley played its first competitive rugby matches in 1914. Radley fielded 17 teams and the entire club started the season with a bang, winning 11 games and losing just three. There were notable performances in the Midgets and Junior Colts, as their respective first teams each scored over thirty points and conceded none: impressive starts to the season that set the tone for two teams that would remain unbeaten all term. Radley played local rivals St. Edward’s on Tuesday 21 September. This was the first block of the term to be impacted by Covid-19, a reminder both of how fortunate all of us were to see the return of competitive rugby, but also that the virus was still part of our daily lives. Thankfully, three teams

fter a year with no competitive fixtures, the entire club was excited about rugby’s return. Nick Wood, Master in Charge of Rugby, reviews the season.

were able to turn out, with Bigside, JC1 and 2 in action. JC2 put on a fine display to win 44-0 – the catalyst for a rich vein of form that continued throughout the term. Over 250 boys and dons braced themselves for dreich conditions against a tough St. Paul’s team. They did not disappoint but the Radley boys were up to the challenge, winning three-quarters of all the games played. Bigside captain Toby (6.2, E Social) was unavailable due to his inclusion in the England U18 training camp, so Rory Fletcher ably deputised as captain, leading the 1st XV to their first ever away win against Field Marshal Montgomery’s alma mater. Perhaps the most important result of the day was the Colts 1 defeat, however. The lessons learned about game management were absorbed and put into practice quickly; this would prove to be the only loss of an incredible

season. A week later, Radley played the first of two blocks against Tonbridge, which coincided with the Dennis Silk Memorial Day. Hundreds of Old Radleians and former parents filled the touchlines on a glorious, sunny afternoon. Tonbridge always provide stiff competition, but Radley did not disappoint, with 10 wins, seven losses and three draws. There were excellent displays from Colts 3 and JC5, winning their respective matches. Both teams would maintain that form across the term, ending up unbeaten. The half term break must have recharged the boys’ batteries, as the club managed to win all games in our first block fixture against Uppingham. Special mention goes to the 4th XV which, in the absence of a fixture against Uppingham, took on Marlborough teams one grade higher. The 4th XV managed to eke out a win; JC3 succumbed to a narrow loss, but, most importantly, the boys were happy to be playing. Our second local derby came against Abingdon, complemented by fixtures at Bloxham, Stowe, Eton and St. Edward’s. This weekend, more than any other in the term, demonstrated the strength of Radley’s programme: 21 teams in action, including Midgets 8 and the 6th XV, which who took on Bloxham’s 3rd XV. The 6th XV benefited from Dr Cunningham’s infectious enthusiasm,

undiminished even in his final year at Radley. The lower-end Senior teams’ forbearance across the term is to be applauded, as they took the disappointment over occasional cancellations on the chin. They were to be rewarded with an excellent double-header against Bloxham on the final Saturday of term – for the 6.2s, a memorable occasion to close out their Radley rugby journeys. A lengthy Thursday afternoon drive to Bedford was a small price to pay to see 19 teams in action. The day was a resounding success, with the Seniors, Colts and Junior Colts teams all undefeated, and all but two of the Midgets teams following suit. Midgets 3, 4 and 5 continued their impressive form, all featuring in high-scoring games in which attacking rugby was to the fore. Tonbridge awaited. Not content with the ten wins in the first round, the boys set about their business to deliver 14 on the second attempt. The 1st XV lost in the eighth minute of injury time away at Tonbridge – going down 13-12 in an all-time schoolboy classic. Midgets 2, who had not always had the rub of the green, put in a first-rate performance to win 25-15. Tonbridge’s hospitality, ethos, competitiveness, and quality make them cherished opponents; long may the double-header format continue.

As December arrived, the boys were into the home straight, with Oundle and the return block against Marlborough to close out the term. The Colts and Junior Colts were the main feature at Radley on Saturday 4 December, and they put on quite the show. Colts 2 managed to rack up an incredible 11 tries, nine of which Tom (V, G Social) converted. The entire Colts group were in fine fettle the whole way through the season. We rounded off our fixture card with the rematch against Marlborough. Competing for the Silk Cup, where the result of every match counts, Radley put on a strong showing to secure the trophy. Most impressive was the number of teams that finished the term unbeaten – no mean feat given the ups and downs of schoolboy rugby. They were Colts 3, JC 1, 2 and 5, and Midgets 1, 3 and 6. This final statistic reflects the strength in depth from which Radley’s rugby programme benefits. Overall, the club participated in 181 matches, winning 131, losing 40 and drawing 10. There were 5644 points scored, with only 2481 conceded. Over 400 boys opted to play this term and it was a joy to see them back playing their inclusive and competitive brand of rugby. It was a fantastic season.

THE RADLEIAN

JOVAN’S STOR OUR 11+ FUNDED PLACES PROGRAMME

ur funded places programme has grown at pace in the last five years, with 12% of boys now in receipt of financial support, up from 7.5% in 2017. Sophie Langdale, Director of Admissions and Communications, talks about our 11+ programme and speaks to Jovan (S, J Social) about his Radley journey thus far. One of the best parts of my job is offering a boy a place at Radley. I well remember the smile on my son’s face as he opened his offer letter and, of course, the quiet sense of relief that I felt knowing he was in! When the Warden offered me the job as Director of Admissions and Communications two years ago, it was impossible to turn down. Firstly, it was the chance to help shape the direction of a school that means so much to my family and me, but more importantly, the opportunity to transform the lives of talented boys through our funded places programme was what attracted me most to the role. As a 13+ school, Radley doesn’t naturally fall into the lap of families seeking a school for their son as he prepares to leave his state primary school. However, thanks to our close relationships with a number of feeder prep schools, we are able to provide opportunities for boys finishing Year 6 to board for two years before they join us; giving them a fantastic insight into what boarding life will be like. These relationships will continue to be critical as we widen access and ensure that talented boys, regardless of their means and background, can come to Radley; enriching our community with their

experiences and the many talents they bring. Jovan (S, J Social) is one such boy. After successfully securing a free place at Radley following the pre-test and interview in Year 6, he spent two years at Summer Fields Prep School in Oxford. His Headmaster, David Faber, told us: “Jovan threw himself into all aspects of life at Summer Fields and seized every opportunity with both hands. He became Head Boy in his final year – the first of our Maclaren Scholars to do so – which is evidence of how highly regarded he was by the entire school community. Our ongoing and long-standing relationship with Radley allows us to bring outstanding boys to Summer Fields, secure in the knowledge that they have a place at a wonderful senior school; it’s a win for both schools and provides a lifechanging opportunity for the boys involved. Long may it continue.” What are your first memories of Radley? I remember my parents telling me that there was a chance I might be able to go to Radley. I hadn’t heard of it and didn’t know much about boarding schools, but I was excited by the idea of doing something different. Looking back now, I don’t think there was much of a gap between that conversation and my interview here. The Warden made me feel very comfortable with a joke that compared McDonald’s with an M-shaped graph. It wasn’t quite as funny as I made out on the day, but I really wanted the place!

Are you interested in applying for a funded place at Radley? We would be delighted to talk you through the application and assessment process. Please contact the team via admissions@radley.org.uk If you would like to support talented boys at Radley, our Foundation team would be delighted to hear from you. For more information, please contact Henry Cosh (hrc.cosh@radley.org.uk).

As part of this programme, you spent two years at Summer Fields Prep School before you came to us. Tell me about that. It was a completely new experience for me, but I made friends very quickly. My family live in Essex, so I was a full boarder. This allowed me to throw myself into absolutely everything; sport, drama, music, weekend trips – there wasn’t much spare time! I was elected as Head Boy in my final year. This was a proud moment, especially as I’d only been at the school for a year at that point. It proved to me that schools don’t care where you’ve come from but where you’re going. A lot of my friends

from Summer Fields also came to Radley, so it made the transition slightly easier too. You’ve been a Shell for three months. What have you learned about yourself in that time? I quickly discovered that I would like to work in film or television. I’ve loved studying English here and performing in The Haddon Cup was a real highlight (I played a scary History teacher, but my performance definitely wasn’t modelled on anybody at Radley!). I’m not entirely sure whether I want to be on stage or directing from behind the camera, but I have a much clearer idea of what I want

to do with my life. I’ve also realised that I have more confidence than I thought. Starting at a new school can be daunting, but I’ve adapted to new teaching styles, different routines and completely new surroundings really well. What would you say to someone considering a funded place at Radley? Go for it, you won’t regret it. It’s easy to be overawed by the grand buildings but try to look beyond those and focus on the people that you meet. You’ll quickly notice that everybody is very welcoming and will go above and beyond to make sure you’re happy here.

Jovan and Sophie Langdale

“Brilliant partnership work in action to enable young people and their families to get about actively. Donated by local young people, refurbished by local young people and now ridden by local young people.”

“Ultimately, the most important character trait is respect. That is the cornerstone of effective relationships in your personal and your professional life.”

Josh Lenthall, Active Oxfordshire

Lydia Robinson, Girls’ Schools Partnership Lead, Radley College

Radley boys and staff have provided music concerts for over 20 care homes in the Abingdon area

The launch of our new five-year strategic plan in 2021 introduced a fourth ‘P’ – Partnerships. Although working with others is not new to Radley, we have become more strategic in our approach; considering the impact of our work on our partners and the direct benefits it brings to Radleians.

WHAT A YEAR ...

It has been a fabulous first year. In November, we formalised a partnership with five local independent and state secondary schools to form the OX14 Learning Partnership. Slightly further afield, our Young Sports Leaders have worked with organisations in Blackbird Leys (South Oxford) to create new opportunities and raise aspiration. Most notably, the Ready, Set, Go campaign resulted in hundreds of bikes being donated to families

“I am just happy about how all of us are so keen on making this connection a success!”

“In every metric: attendance, achievement points, academic progress, all pupils on the rowing partnership programme have improved.”

Teacher, Kilembwa School, Kenya

Nora Ward, Headteacher, The Oxford Academy

Over 2000 children involved in Music Flood Week 18

65 A level maths students have delivered 300 online maths support sessions

“Congratulations on the launch of the OX14 Learning Partnership. I look forward to being able to support all of you in whatever you need from me.” House + Home

in the community. Children in Blackbird Leys have been learning to swim at our sports centre and we have started a new rowing academy at Radley. At the same time, our community action programme has linked with local primary schools to support co-curricular and academic work, whilst Radley STEPS – an academic enrichment programme for high achieving children in local primary schools – has entered its third year. A personal highlight was our Music Flood Week, which aimed to tackle the decline of music in primary schools. The enthusiasm for the activities on offer was clear for all to see and reminded us all why music is so important. Partnerships have also allowed us to understand wider social, cultural and global issues. Strategic partnerships

Layla Moran, MP for Oxford West and Abingdon

with Downe House and Broadway Academy have challenged students to think about gender and regional issues, whilst a partnership with the Commonwealth Education Trust is raising awareness of sustainable development. The strength of community was perhaps epitomised by our House + Home art exhibition. Over 2000 paper houses were decorated by local children and exhibited in Abingdon and at the Sewell Centre Gallery at Radley. At the heart of everything has been the boys; leading on projects, learning about our communities, and celebrating the power of collaboration. What a year. John Sparks Director of Partnerships

“Our son has been quite captivated by the experience of the STEPS programme. At the end of every session he has a simmering enthusiasm to recount his lessons to us.” Parent of Radley STEPS programme student

“The children have responded well by having that extra help in the sessions and they really look up to the Radley College students as learning mentors.” Class Teacher, Pegasus Primary School, Oxford

THE RADLEIAN

JUNIOR PROJECT PRIZE

here were a record number of entries to the annual Junior Project Prize this year and the judges considered submissions that covered the entire academic spectrum. Ralph Woodling, Master in Charge of Scholars, tell us about the award and its importance in Radley’s academic life. Academia is founded upon the core principle of asking questions. Whether it’s a Nobel Prize winning professor researching the future of our planet or a schoolboy exploring a unique passion, the ability to challenge convention and critically evaluate information from a range of sources is incredibly important. These attributes will serve Radleians well in the ever-changing world of work but will also allow them to pursue their future scholarly ambitions with confidence. The Junior Project Prize has flown the flag of academic virtuosity at Radley for a number of years. Without exception, the number of boys submitting work for

consideration has grown every year and the breadth of topics researched has increased beyond comprehension. The brief is simple: to complete a short project in a subject of their choice. As ever, the entries were outstanding. It was a joy to read original works of fiction and poetry, and to experience some astonishingly accomplished musical compositions. As usual, there were some tremendous, traditional, written works on such diverse subjects as The Speed of Light, and the History of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Video submissions were more numerous this year with boys both narrating and starring in their productions, demonstrating technical expertise, initiative, and talent. Above all, it is clear that academic passion runs deep in our Junior boys. The selection of submission celebrates outstanding scholarship and cultural appreciation, and in all cases represents some seriously hard work.

My congratulations go to those awarded prizes, but my thanks goes to all our boys who thrive on academic challenge and unashamedly pursue excellence.

Remove Prizewinners, Summer 2021 Tom (V, G Social) Battle of Cannae Yiyang (V, C Social) The Speed of Light Kim (V, K Social) Piano Compositions Shell Prizewinners, Summer 2021 Ed (R, H Social) First Light Angus (R, E Social) Heroes of Telemark Harkirat (R, L Social) British Education

THE RADLEIAN

NEWS Haddon Cup

Partsong 2021 Congratulations to B Social which won the annual Partsong competition, a highlight of the Radley year. The adjudicator described their performance of Wonderful World and Stand by Me as “characterful, energetic and fantastically musical”.

H Social was triumphant in the annual Haddon Cup competition after a moving depiction of the USA’s exit from Afghanistan. The Shells from each Social performed a 10-minute play, written and directed by 6.1 students. The performances ranged from hard-hitting drama exploring current affairs through to murder mystery and Covid parodies! The highly coveted Acting Award went to DingDing for his “consistently controlled and supportive performance” of the prince’s aide in D Social’s play, Ella.

Chris Ronaldson, Head Professional of Radley Real Tennis celebrated 50 years as a pro this term. Chris was world champion for six years and became the first player to win the Real Tennis Grand Slam in 1984.

Biology Week returned thanks to popular demand. The programme of events covered everything from marine animals to spinal muscle atrophy and food systems to dissection, so there was something for everyone.

Our 140-strong Chapel Choir sung Evensong at Portsmouth Cathedral in October. They performed Stanford’s Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis in A, and Howells’ Hymn for St Cecilia to a large and appreciative congregation.

Dennis Silk Memorial

Milestone Man

Biology Week

Portsmouth Cathedral

We welcomed over 300 members of the extended Radley community to celebrate the life of Warden Dennis Silk on what would have been his 90th birthday. After a service in Chapel, friends gathered in Silk Hall to reminisce about Dennis’ life and pay tribute to his legacy. Diana, his wife, shared memories of their time together at Radley and received a standing ovation in recognition of her own contributions to the College over many years.

Organ Scholarship Success Congratulations to Henry (6.2, H Social) who has been appointed as Organ Scholar at St Edmundsbury Cathedral in Canterbury from September 2022. Henry faced stiff competition, which highlights the magnitude of his achievement.

Theology Essay Success Congratulations to Hyunjo (R, J Social) who was shortlisted in the John Lock Institute Essay Competition for Theology for his submission: Did God create Coronavirus?’. Hyunjo entered the main competition and was up against students who had completed their 6.2 year and were on their way to university. A fantastic achievement.

Big Thinking Talks In the first of our Radley 175 Big Thinking Talks, Simon Barlass discussed the evolution of pedagogy and Radley’s approach to teaching and learning. In the next session on Thursday 27th January, Katherine Garrett-Cox, current parent, and industry-leading financier, will share reflections from the 2022 World Economic Forum Annual meeting. To register, please visit the Radleian Society section of the website.

Ready Set Go! Thanks to the generosity of the College community, our 6.1 Sport Leaders donated 100 bikes and 40 helmets to Active Oxfordshire and Oxford Hub to help people in our local community. The bikes will be distributed to families in East Oxford who want to get active or travel to work or school.

Junior European Open

Magnus Magnificent Guitar Prize Congratulations to Tristan (6.1, D Social) who won the annual Guitar Prize with an outstanding performance of Yuquirjo Yukoh’s Variations on Sakura. Thanks to Professor Stephen Goss from the Royal Academy of Music for adjudicating.

Congratulations to Rackets captain, Magnus (6.2, C Social), who won the H.K Foster Cup at Queens in December. He brings the trophy back to Radley for the first time in 40 years.

Climate Conference

Richard Morgan Memorial We welcomed over 350 Old Radleians and their families back to the College in November to celebrate the life of Warden Richard Morgan who sadly died in May. After a service in Chapel with tributes to Richard, there was a memorial fixture between Radley and Cheltenham College, where Richard was also Headmaster.

Congratulations to Ben (V, J Social) and Patrick (6.2, B Social) who have qualified for the Junior European Open championship. The boys will fly to Spain in February to compete in the tournament, which will be shown on Sky Sports. Past competitors in the tournament include Justin Rose, Luke Donald and Nick Dougherty.

Orchestral Mass Radley Choral Society performed Haydn’s Missa Sancti Nicolai in Chapel as part of an Orchestral Mass in November. This was the Society’s first performance in almost two years, and they were in fine voice, ably accompanied by a wonderful orchestra.

The Geography department organised a climate conference for the Shells alongside girls from Downe House School. Delegates considered the impact of COVID-19 on different populations from around the world. They were ably supported by Sixth Form geographers, who led sessions on areas of geography that interested them most.

In 2022, we are celebrating 175 years of Radley College. We are excited to mark this historic anniversary with events that reflect on our history and look forward to our future. We really hope you will join us. To find out more about our plans, please scan the QR code.

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