2024 IMPACT
the radley foundation and development report 2024
I am pleased to deliver the Impact Report on behalf of the Foundation Trustees.
The way in which the many members of the Radley community encourage and support the Foundation’s endeavours continues to be constructive and fruitful, despite the political and economic headwinds that confront us all. Radley and the Foundation are grateful to all contributors whether through their financial donations, the provision of their expertise or the gift of their time, or combinations of all three.
The positive outcomes, continuing momentum and progress that resonate throughout this report are clear. But the heart of our mission continues to be to grow the endowment for funded places. This is a strategic priority for us and essential for those who will benefit from a life-changing opportunity and those who may require help in the face of the increasing fee burden.
One of our founding Trustees, Thomas Seymour (1965, C), retired this year, having not only magnificently provided much wisdom and legal expertise as a Trustee, but also having served as Chair from 2011 to 2020.
This year, Richard Huntingford (1969, E) came to the end of his long term as a Trustee, including a recent period as Chair. We are happy to reflect on their enthusiasm, immense contributions and all that they have done for Radley. We thank them wholeheartedly. We also bid farewell, sadly, to Henry Cosh, Associate Director of the Foundation, who will be moving with his family after five years at Radley, and who we thank for his constant hard work, positivity and high standards.
Lastly, on behalf of all involved in Radley, I express our limitless gratitude to Elisabeth Anderson and her wonderful team in the Foundation office. Their drive and diligence in all they do for the Foundation is remarkable and we are fortunate to work alongside them. This report illustrates the extent of their efforts and the consequent results.
Mark Rushton (1975, F) Chairman of Trustees, The Radley Foundation
pathway to success
It is, remarkably, ten years since I arrived at Radley. As I reflect on that, I think about – and am often asked – what I am proudest of over that time. Of course, put simply, I am fundamentally proud to be Warden of the College, to work with the academic dons and operational staff and to be trusted by parents to provide a boarding education for their sons. But if we were to focus on one thing, the answer is simple: the funded places programme.
I believe it makes the College a better place. As I often say, if a talented boy (academic, musical, theatrical, artistic, sporting, a leader in the making or just a boy that will light up a boarding community) is sat in my office and I think he would bring something to Radley, it is wonderful if money does not get in the way. The strategic focus of the College and the extraordinary generosity of donors makes this more and more possible. And, as a result, the College is enriched, in so many ways.
It transforms lives. We hope the long-term impact of a funded place is as important as the education itself. If the recipients go on to be the best of what Radley represents, the benefits they have gained will have a cascading effect; I often think of Dennis Silk in that sense; he was such a beneficiary (at a different school) and went on to influence thousands of Radleians as a Warden. I think we can say that his funded place made a difference. We hope ours do the same.
We call this publication Impact for a reason. Earlier this year, we had an event for friends of Radley, those who are not ORs or parents but have a meaningful relationship with the College. I sat at lunch with the widows of two Old Radleians, both of whom had been able to talk earlier with boys who were the beneficiaries of funds associated with their late husbands. Both were thrilled to have done so, impressed with the Radleians they had met, and full of enthusiasm about the funded places programme. In this way, we keep alive the memory of others, uphold the values of the College and ensure a pathway to success for those who otherwise might not have had it.
That is true impact. And it is why I am proud. After reading the stories in this year's Impact Report, I am pretty confident you will agree.
John Moule Warden
the making of a national champion
"I've been teaching since 1989 across the country and across the globe. I have never met a student more talented, more engaged and more intriguing than Brayden. Radley clearly taught him well. He's heading to Oxford with no challenge too difficult, no topic too complicated, and most importantly, nothing is beyond his willingness to help. He is not only a brilliant young man, he has a heart of gold and that is what makes him special. And that's what makes Radley so special – you bring out the very best in your students."
Dr Frank Luntz, American Election Expert
Brayden arrived at Radley in 2019 as a Shell, having gained an Academic Scholarship and a fully funded Hamish Aird Foundation Award. Brayden has excelled at the College, finishing his A Levels with four A*s, and this year was offered a coveted scholarship from the University of Oxford to study Philosophy, Politics and Economics at Christ Church. The mutual impact between Brayden and Radley has been profound. His academic prowess, quick mind, boundless enthusiasm and penchant for a healthy debate have flourished and inspired both his peers and dons over his five years at Radley.
As Brayden prepared to leave after Gaudy, he reflected on his extraordinary journey.
I’d find it hard to forget the first time I saw Radley. My Mum had heard about the College, and its funded places, through an online post by the mother of a Radleian, and we had got the train down for the open day to see the place for ourselves.
As we walked up the drive, going past boys in suits and gowns, talking about Hogwarts parallels (a comparison I’d later learn gets somewhat tiring over the years, but at the time seemed so novel) and feeling we’d travelled back in time a couple of centuries, the thought hadn’t even crossed my mind that I may one day call this place home.
We followed the arrow signs pointing to the theatre and, after wolfing down perhaps a few more of the complimentary biscuits than was strictly proper, we took our seats. One of the earlier lessons my parents taught me was to always sit as close to the front and centre as possible, regardless of the occasion. Years later, I suspect there was a deeper meaning to this advice than simply seating position, but at the time my only thoughts were that this would provide a better view of the headteacher, or Warden, as he was rather ominously styled.
While it is hard to pinpoint the exact moment that Radley changed the trajectory of my life, there’s as good an argument as any for the Warden’s speech that day. He spoke of the kind of boy he wanted for Radley, one who was interested in everything, one who was willing to speak up, to engage, to be a sponge for knowledge, always curious. Mum squeezed my arm. “That’s you,” she whispered.
Afterwards, my Mum and I walked around the College grounds, excitedly chatting about the Warden’s words until I looked up from our conversation and suddenly stopped. She turned and asked why, but I was speechless, simply turning my head around, doubtless looking like a fool. Surrounding us were Mansion, Covered Passage, Classics, and B Social, all connected in what was not only the biggest, but also the most beautiful set of buildings I had ever seen in my life. Now, of course, it’s ‘just Radley’. But six years ago, I was simply stunned. I knew in that moment. I had to wake up each morning in a place that looked like this. I had to get in.
Somehow, I did. It was a massive culture shock, Radleians are lovely, but it really did feel like another nation with its own customs. People adapt, however, and before long I never wanted to leave, and longed to return each school holiday. In many ways, Radley has become my home, and it is when apart from it that I am homesick.
Radley is a deeply pleasant place to be, from the architecture to the people, and one of the better culture shocks was that rather than being picked on or bullied for being bright and working hard,
academic success is encouraged and respected by Radleians. It’s hard to overstate how important that is.
The highlight of my time at Radley would have to be the debating, which I had never even thought about before coming here. In my first year, a 6.2 and I were selected to be the Radley A team for the Oxford Union Debating Competition, and we managed to win a place in the national final later that year. Unfortunately, this was in March 2020 so it was cancelled due to COVID-19. I was gutted. Still, at thirteen, it was surreal that I had faced dozens of seventeen and eighteen-yearolds at something I had never even tried a month prior and beat them to the final.
"Rather than being picked on for being bright and working hard, academic success is encouraged and respected by Radleians. It’s hard to overstate how important that is."
This year, I was on the team that won Radley its first ever national debating competition, the ESU Schools’ Mace, something I still find myself in disbelief of months later. Me? A national champion? You’re kidding!
Throughout the last few years, one thing has become increasingly apparent: everything I have achieved, I have achieved because of those around me. I could never have dreamed of even being at Radley without a funded place, I wouldn’t know half the things I do if not for the teachers who took time to cultivate my interests throughout my life, I wouldn’t have made it to the Oxford Union final without my debate partner Alexey who taught me how to structure my argument, I certainly couldn’t have won the ESU Mace without my incredible team, Mustafa and Blake, nor without the endlessly patient Dr Schmalz, and my studies at Oxford will only be financially feasible because of a generous scholarship.
Perhaps most of all, I quite literally wouldn’t be here without my family, and my Mum who decided to follow up on that post and take me to that open day all those years ago.
These people, and many more, have made me who I am, and if I can do some good in the world, help whoever I can and repay that favour, then I’ll hope to have done them proud.
Watch Sepehr's video interview online at www.radley.org.uk/support/radley-impact
"One rarely has the pleasure to meet, let alone teach, a man such as Sepehr. It is impossible to overstate the impact he has had on the College
and his peers."
From top: Second Prefect, Sepehr, speaking about his experience of Radley at the launch of the Radley Keys Award, with his fellow prefects, and with students during a Radley Partnerships Programme visit.
a new life and a new perspective
Sepehr joined Radley as a Sixth Form Scholar in September 2022 on a fully funded place. Born and raised in Iran, Sepehr’s life changed dramatically in 2016 when his family moved to the UK after his father became a political refugee. Prior to attending Radley, Sepehr was a student at Tile Cross Academy in Birmingham.
In his 6.1 year, Sepehr contributed to the development of a language app for refugees, working with his team to win the WSA European Young Innovators Award. He also wrote a thought-provoking article in Radley’s academic journal, Serpentes, titled “Women, Life, Freedom” which addressed Iranian women’s rights. Sepehr has also served as an ambassador for Radley’s partnership with Broadway Academy.
Sepehr’s remarkable first year at Radley culminated in his appointment as Second Prefect for his final year. As he approached the end of his time at Radley, we asked Sepehr to reflect on his experiences at the College.
Becoming an emigree at the age of ten is hard. We had no house at first, and lived in a hotel for months until we were given temporary housing and a year later a council house situated in a postcode that is in the top 3% for deprivation in all of England. Growing up and going to school amidst poverty and deprivation teaches one to seize their every opportunity; to be grateful for all one has, and to work with unrelenting diligence.
Coming to Radley was, for me, a second birth. Just as a flower struggles and perseveres, the petals and sepals opening, so too I bloomed.
My first weeks in Radley were embodied by a sense of anxious excitement as I tried to find my feet, and also my classes. I was gripped by a conviction that I must seize my every opportunity, for, you see, Radley was so radically different, in every sense, to the education which I was used to. It was so different, so new, so alien and yet so warm, so welcoming and so open.
Here I joined the CCF; the medical and debating societies; I swam and sailed and did a hundred other things which I had never had the chance to do before. I gave social prayers and wrote for Serpentes; I gave speeches and tours and mentored others. Perhaps I was, for a very brief period, the busiest boy in Radley. Yet, despite this, I felt at home. I felt welcomed by the good friends which I had made in every year group and every Social. I felt welcomed in E Social and came to see the boys there as my own brothers. Brothers with whom I have laughed
all of my heart’s breadth and with whom I have cried from the depths of my heart’s sorrow.
Though the most precious thing which I come out of Radley with is not a “Second Prefect” title, or a bolstered CV, or an international network of lifelong friends – albeit that comes very close – but a new life and a new perspective. I joined Radley as a naïve and anxious boy, but I now leave it in humility and with a newfound curiosity and passion for life.
Coming to Radley was not easy at first; the first term felt like an eternity. Yet now that I write this, with less than four weeks ahead of me, I wish that I could experience it all over again. Again with the same people, again with the same struggles, again from the start. My second year in Radley, now as Second Prefect, was eventful and at times challenging, but it has flashed by in a heartbeat and it has been the most rewarding thing which I have committed myself to at Radley, for the simple reason that it has allowed me to give back. There has been no sweeter experience for me than feeling, even if for just one instant, that I have done something nice for our school.
And so, I bloom as the flowers bloom, and as they celebrate and herald a new life with a sweet scent, I celebrate my time at Radley; my invaluable friends; my unforgettable memories and my new life with a sweet letter, simply to say, thank you.
Sepehr (6.2)
Second Prefect 2023-24
"One rarely has the pleasure to meet let alone teach or have in his form a man such as Sepehr. It is impossible to overstate the impact he has had on the College and his peers. His drive, intelligence (also emotional) and commitment are unparalleled. A true academic and thinker and one can only be in awe of his achievements over only the past two years. I feel privileged to have met Sepehr as a teacher and form master and send him off to become a successful medic; a path, I know, he will tread carefully, intelligently and with much purpose."
Oliver Choroba, Sepehr’s Form Master and Head of Chemistry and Science
why i give gratitude for my warden's place
It was April 1992, and all of five months before I was due to leave my prep school for pastures new. My parents hadn’t been aware that they needed to put my name down at birth for Radley and whilst Radley was their first choice, Radley admissions were full, and I was heading nearly 100 miles down the A303 to Sherborne.
A fortuitous meeting in the Twickenham car park for a Six Nations (probably Five Nations in those days) match a couple of months earlier, between my parents and the then A Social Tutor, Peter Johnson, had offered a glimmer of hope. The new Warden, Richard Morgan, was potentially going to offer a couple of ‘Warden’s places’ to those not on the list. Mum subsequently followed up with a number of letters to the Warden and on the back of a brief assessment and a report from my then Headmaster, I was offered a place.
The Warden’s place was offered on the basis that I’d contribute to the sporting and academic success of the school. I will let the staff that taught me be the judge of that, but I certainly thoroughly enjoyed my time at Radley and was constantly impressed with the pace at which new facilities and opportunities, both academic and co-curricular, were invested in year on year and something that the school continues to strive to achieve today.
Whilst at Radley I took part in an exchange with a comprehensive school in Brownhills, north Birmingham. We attended lessons and spent a week with a family from the school, seeing a very different viewpoint to what a British education could look like.
I think it would be fair to say that both sets of pupils had preconceived ideas about the other. Certainly, when the Brownhills students met us at Radley in the JCR on a Sunday evening and we were wearing jeans and T-shirts, it was a far cry from what they’d expected. The gowns, suits, ties and the odd mortarboard on the Monday morning was more like it and did make them all laugh! However, uniform aside, the Brownhills students were blown away by the amazing facilities Radley had to offer and, from subsequent correspondence with some of them, I know that many of them would have jumped at having such an opportunity.
I therefore pledged when I left that I would make regular donations to the Radley Foundation as my own small way of saying thank you for the amazing opportunity I’d had at Radley, and in the belief that if a number of people made regular donations, then the money raised could hopefully make a big difference to a handful of less fortunate students by offering them a Radley education.
(Top left) Radley and Brownhills students during the 1996 exchange programme which saw pupils spend a number of days in both schools.
(Bottom left) Chris, seated front right, with the 1st XV team in 1997. It was partially on the basis of his sporting promise that Chris was granted a place at Radley. As well as the 1st XV, Chris rowed in the Junior 1st VIII, was on the 1st Athletics team, and was a Cross Country Runner.
Chris Ward (1992, B)
war memorial fund a lasting contribution
The War Memorial Fund, initially established in 1917 by the families of fallen Old Radleians, provides means-tested scholarships to the sons of those serving in the Forces and descendants of Old Radleians, including those who died in war. Radley families have benefited from this important fund every year since its inception, including the Studholme Wilson family. Jeremy Studholme Wilson (1951, D), who died in August 2021, supported the fund through a legacy in his will.
My brother Jeremy and I were the third generation of our family to attend Radley, following in the footsteps of our father, Geoffrey (1927, C), and grandfather, James (1900, E). Jeremy joined D Social in 1951 and I followed shortly afterwards in 1953. More recently, my son Nicholas arrived at D Social in 1981.
Jeremy and I have always recognised the debt we owe to the Radley War Memorial Scholarship Fund, and the enormous role the Trustees played in assisting our father, Geoffrey Studholme Wilson, through his time at Radley. Geoffrey’s father, our grandfather, Captain J E S Wilson MC, was a practicing surgeon and joined the Royal Army Medical Corps at the outbreak of WWI. He was killed in action at Ypres in September 1917, aged 31. Without the assistance of the War Memorial Fund it is possible that future generations of the family may not have been able to maintain our family’s tradition of sending their sons to Radley.
Jeremy enjoyed his time at Radley where he became a school prefect and excelled on the sports field representing the College 1st teams in cricket, rugby and hockey, and this excellence was later recognised by being invited to join both the Harlequins Rugby Club and the MCC.
On leaving Radley, he went on to have a successful business career in the Far East, but a sense of adventure had been instilled in him by his time at the College. This led to a love affair with the great rivers of the world, with a particular focus on the Amazon, Yangtze and Mekong. This passion was encouraged by his wife, and he made many expeditions to the Amazon. In 1976 he reached the most distant source point of the river – a glacial stream on Mount Mismi in Southern Peru – and became only the second known Westerner to reach the source of the Amazon.
His final years were spent in Portugal with his wife Jane. Sadly, their time together was cut short by his illness but not before he was able to request that, on his death, a gift was to be made to the Radley Foundation expressly to benefit the Radley War Memorial Scholarship Fund, to recognise the powerful impact of their sacrifice.
Simon Studholme Wilson (1953, D)
Making a charitable legacy in your will is a simple act that has a lasting impact for future generations.
Did you know that leaving a charitable legacy in your will can reduce your total inheritance tax bill, meaning your charitable gift has little impact on bequests for your loved ones?
If you would like to make a legacy to Radley speak to your solicitor or contact Hasna Bloore at the Radley Foundation for more information at foundation@radley.org.uk, call +44 1235 548 547, or visit our webpage: www.radley.org.uk/support/gifts-in-will/
(Top) Jeremy in retirement. (Middle) Jeremy on Mount Mismi 1976 (source of the Amazon in Peru). (Bottom) Jeremy in the 1955 1st XV (second from right, middle row).
funds you have generously supported
READING
Thanks to a generous donation from a Radley parent Young Adult Libraries, now established in each classroom, have been enriched with additions from the Carnegie Medal longlisted texts. These texts have formed the foundation of the Inter-Social Carnegie Shadowing Competition, involving 40 boys from Shell and Remove.
Shell and Remove hosted the Inter-School Abingdon YA Book Awards, where each boy read three books in a team format, competing against fourteen local schools. Additionally, Radley hosted its own Inter-Social LitQuiz, with C Social emerging victorious. For departing 6.2 English A-Level boys, we hosted the annual Literary Awards Shadowing Dinner. Boys demonstrated remarkable maturity discussing challenging, avant-garde texts.
Authors Mick Herron and Simon Mason participated in Radley Book Groups discussing their books Slow Horses and Kid Got Shot.
DICK USHERWOOD FUND
An Old Radleian from H Social in the 1970s recently commented how through the passage of time he had come to appreciate that Dick Usherwood (Tutor of H Social 1974-89; Chemistry don 1960-97) had been a remarkably good man and how he had a profound impact on his life, and also the lives of many Radleians.
This led to the creation of the Dick Usherwood Fund with the anonymous donor generously offering initial seed funding and a matching gift challenge. We have been delighted with the response so far with 31 Old Radleians collectively raising £33,005 in Dick’s honour.
All of the funds raised will support both H Social and the expansion of the Kroto Laboratory in the Chemistry department, designed for boys to undertake their own research projects in their spare time and explore science beyond the syllabus. The laboratory's popularity has created a need for more space, so once expanded, the laboratory will be renamed in honour of Dick Usherwood.
TRIPS AND TOURS
Educational and extra-curricular trips beyond the College gates have long been integral to a Radley education. In recent years, the Foundation has received generous contributions from individual donors, fundraising events and donations to the Richard Greed Appeal, to provide grants for boys unable to meet the full costs of certain Radley trips.
We are pleased to announce that last academic year, over 40 boys received additional funding to cover the expenses of their trips, enabling more boys to fully experience everything Radley has to offer.
Dick and Christine Usherwood at the 150th Anniversary Ball in 1997.
Bursary recipient Uzair (6.1) on a Geology trip to Iceland. Photo credit: Oliver (H, 6.1)
PARENTS OF 2024 LEAVERS
Each year, we invite parents of leaving 6.2 Radleians to donate all or part of their registration deposit to the Foundation. This year saw a record number with almost half of leaving parents donating their deposit, together raising a tremendous £78,193.
Parents chose to support various areas of Radley life, including: Debating, Music School, Natural Conservation, Socials, Sustainability, Countryside Centre, and more!
RICHARD MORGAN INTER-SOCIAL DEBATING TROPHIES
Thanks to the generosity of an Old Radleian, and with the keen agreement of the Morgan family, the Richard Morgan Inter-Social Debating Trophies were established this year. Two splendid silver trophies, the Senior Cup and the Junior Cup, were purchased and inscribed. In this inaugural year, G Social claimed the Senior Cup, while K Social triumphed with the Junior Cup.
Debating continues to flourish at Radley, most recently with a team of three Radleians winning the national title in debating, The English-Speaking Union Schools’ Mace, overcoming 360 teams from England and Wales. Read more about this win on pages 4-5.
The Richard Morgan Debating Trophies have established a lasting legacy to a Warden warmly remembered for his exceptional oratory skills.
AND SO MUCH MORE...
■ Malcolm Robinson Memorial Fund was founded just before the passing of former Head of History Malcolm Robinson. The fund provides scholarships to boys in the sixth form to study American History at the College of William & Mary in the USA over the summer. Two 6.1 Radleians were awarded this scholarship in 2023/24, making a total of 21 boys having benefitted from this incredible opportunity. The fund stands at £360,606.
■ The Peter and Kewpie Stuart Fund continues to support Radley music in honour of the late Peter Stuart (1933, H; D Social Tutor) and his wife Kewpie. The fund currently stands at £12,482 and will support the upcoming music tour to Salamanca in February 2025.
■ The Richard Morgan Award was founded by an Old Radleian in 2010 in honour of former Warden and C Social Tutor, Richard Morgan. This endowed fund provides up to 100% means-tested fee support. Thanks to ongoing donations and a substantial legacy received last year, the fund now stands at £930,576 and will continue to support boys in Warden Morgan’s name in perpetuity.
■ The Greater China Scholarship provides 100% fee support, plus essential extras, to exceptional boys joining Radley from mainland China and Hong Kong. The fund stands at £190,108 and will continue to support the four exceptional Radleians through their five years at the college.
■ The James Batten Fund was founded in 2021 in memory of James Batten, former C Social Tutor. The Batten Fund supports a programme of lectures, trips and careers support for Radleians who wish to pursue legal studies. The funds stands at £25,283.
■ The Silk Fund continues to support boys in memory of former Warden Dennis Silk. The 2023/24 academic year saw a total of 11 boys at Radley in receipt of a Silk Award, with two new Silk Award holders joining Shells in September 2024.
■ The Music Recital Series was launched thanks to generous support of individuals and charitable organisations. The Music Recital Series continues to inspire Radleians and pupils in the local community alike, giving students hands on experience working with professional musicians.
■ The James Wesson Bursary Fund provides up to 100% fee support for boys with a real passion for cricket. It was founded in 2016, in memory of James Wesson, former A Social Tutor. The fund stands at £60,083 and supports the fees for a boy who has just completed his Remove year.
a family’s warm welcome to radley
A warm welcome is perhaps the most enduring thread in the great tapestry of Radley’s history. However, as the number of boys in receipt of funding has grown, the significant strides we have taken to ensure families feel as much a part of the community as their sons has been just as important as raising funds.
Mosese joined Radley as a Shell in September 2022 on a Sports Scholarship funded by the Alan Rae Smith Memorial Fund. Whilst Mosese’s parents, Owen and Telesia, considered schools closer to their home in South Wales, they supported his decision to choose Radley. We asked them to reflect on their two years as part of the Radley community and to tell us about the friendships they have made along the way.
His academic and sporting strengths, and gentle, jovial character meant Mosese was the perfect candidate to become a Radleian. Although Telesia recognised it was an incredible opportunity, she was not convinced at first:
“I just had no idea what to expect. Mosese is a talented sportsman, and we had been to quite a few private schools for fixtures with his local club but I always worried that they would treat somebody like him differently, but every single person we met at Radley welcomed us genuinely and warmly. I probably love Radley more than he does now! We have all made great friends.”
In the lead up to a national rugby final, Mosese lost his rugby boots. Owen reached out to the E Social parents’ WhatsApp group for help:
“I couldn’t believe how quickly people rallied around. Within five minutes we’d located the boots and they were being driven by a parent to the game. That might seem like such a small thing, but it really meant a lot to us. A parent knew about our situation, recognised that
we might need some help and solved the problem. People might look at our different lives and think we have nothing in common with the other families here, but we share the same values. We want the best for our children, and we look out for one another.”
Mosese was part of the Radley U15 team who beat Northampton School for Boys to be crowned national champions in March. However, the balance between his academic and sporting commitments is what has allowed Mosese to really settle in.
“During my interview, I was told that if I didn’t work hard in the classroom then I wouldn’t play for the school team! Nobody had ever said that to me before. My dad was very happy as he cares deeply about my work, and I know that having a strong academic foundation will open more doors for me.”
Owen and Telesia recognise the journey they have been on with the College.
“We definitely had some reservations about Mosese going away to boarding school, but we have no regrets. He’s still the same kind person he has always been, but he’s grown from a boy to a man. He is happy, has a wide group of mates, and has the world at his feet. We are all so lucky to be part of this community and are proud that Mosese is so true to himself. He is calm, takes everything in his stride and expresses himself freely. As parents, we really can’t ask for anything more than that.”
Mosese is the beneficiary of the Alan Rae Smith Memorial Fund, which was founded in 2021 following the tragic death of Alan Rae Smith (1973, H) in 2020. In his memory, Alan’s friends and loved ones raised funds to support a talented boy through his five years at Radley.
“Alan, Rupert Fordham (1973, F) and I met as 13 year old boys when we all started at Radley in 1973, and the three of us became lifelong friends. Alan, whose father was Chairman of Governors at Radley for many years, was passionate about needs blind education, and Rupert and I felt that funding this award alongside his many friends and his wonderful family was the right way to remember him. Mosese is very much the kind of boy that Alan would have wanted to come to Radley, combining – as he does – ability with humility”.
Hugh Willis (1973, C)
radley foundation friends of radley lunch
A special connection – 21st April 2024
The wider Radley community is diverse, and many have deep connections to Radley without having ever been a student here.
On Sunday 21st April, the Foundation held the inaugural Friends of Radley Lunch which celebrated just that. We were joined by parents of Old Radleians, former staff, widows of Old Radleians, and other friends, who came together at Radley to catch up with all the latest goings on.
After a morning Chapel service, guests were joined by Radleians for refreshments and warm conversation about Radley life. Guests then enjoyed Sunday lunch in Shop and heard from the Warden about the school today and our strategic objectives for the years to come.
Thank you to all who joined us for this truly heart-warming day. We hope to hold similar gatherings in the future.
“Thank you so much for a really enjoyable visit to Radley. The Service in Chapel was amazing and the lunch delicious; it is always lovely to have the chance to meet up with old friends and colleagues. I was particularly delighted to hear Mr Moule's inspiring talk about the future of scholarships –a subject dear to my heart. I so enjoyed meeting the current scholars who were a credit to the school.”
Jen Dowding, widow of Alan Dowding (B Social Tutor 1973-1984, Sub-Warden 1988-1989)
foundation events 2023-24
rugby gala dinner
An unforgettable evening – 8th March 2024
On Friday 8th March, the Foundation welcomed over 180 members of the Radley community – Old Radleians, parents and former parents – to the Rugby Gala Dinner to raise funds in support of RCRUFC.
The evening kicked off with a drinks reception in Mansion, where boys of RCRUFC mingled with guests and shared updates on Radley Rugby’s commendable performance during the previous season.
In the Dining Hall, Master in Charge of Rugby Nick Wood officially opened the event, and welcomed special guests Wayne Barnes, Mark Pougatch and Mark Durden-Smith (1982, B), who later regaled the guests with a lively interview and anecdotes from their illustrious careers. Caricaturist and parent Debbie Obied circulated the room, creating entertaining likenesses of the attendees.
The highlight of the evening was the live auction, led by renowned auctioneer Jonny Gould, who expertly stirred the crowd with coveted prizes such as tickets to Taylor Swift’s sold-out tour, a clay shooting day with Mike Tindall, and a week away in the Drakensberg Mountains, South Africa.
The evening was rounded off with the announcement of the silent auction and raffle prize winners, followed by a final toast in the JCR.
A tremendous total of £37,080 was raised in support of RCRUFC. This generous sum will support deserving boys participating in the Argentina Tour in the summer.
Our warmest thanks go to all who participated in the event, auctions, and raffle.
Special guest, Wayne Barnes OBE, International Rugby Referee. Current RCRUFC players.
felix's story
The Armed Forces Fund was launched in 2010 following the loss in Afghanistan of two Old Radleians, Lieutenant Colonel Rupert Thorneloe MBE and Lieutenant Dougie Dalzell MC. This important fund provides financial support for the education of children of service men and women killed or wounded while serving their country (girls go to St Mary's Calne or Downe House). The fund stands at just over £3,000,000 and has so far enabled seven children to benefit from an Armed Forces Fund Award.
One of these students is Felix (6.1), who joined Radley as a Shell in 2020. We sat down with Felix to ask him about his time at Radley so far and his plans for the future.
Do you remember your first impressions of Radley?
I came to look around when I was about 10 years old, I was at my local primary school at the time, and I remember Radley seemed like Hogwarts! I was offered a place and moved to The Beacon School for two years from Year 7, supported by the Armed Forces Fund. I was excited to board as I hadn’t spent that much time away from home. I didn’t get particularly homesick, but I know my Mum missed me a lot! I’m definitely more productive in boarding school than I would have been in a state day school.
Did anything surprise you about Radley?
I do remember my first surprise being the gowns! But in terms of actual school life, for me it was how much people focused on their work; it's more of an academic culture than my state school.
What have you learnt about yourself since joining Radley?
I was made Head of Army this year so need to organise and sometimes teach the younger years. It’s been a great way to gain skills in motivation and leadership. I used to have quite bad stage fright, but I think that’s gone thanks to this role. I was also lucky enough to get picked to go on the USA Politics trip to the Iowa Caucuses. I’d never been to America before, and we went with Dr Frank Luntz [American Election Expert]. We met some incredible people, and even saw Trump speak, which was an amazing experience.
What has been your most memorable moment at Radley?
It’s funny how my most embarrassing memory immediately pops into my head! Raft building in Removes in the winter term is a very distinct memory. We had to build a raft in freezing weather and then get it to the other side of College Pond. The whole raft collapsed so I was swimming in freezing water as an underweight Remove – I thought I was dying! A positive memory though is one I get regularly. It’s that moment returning to Radley after a long holiday and seeing friends again and catching up.
"The generosity and kindness of all those who have given to the Armed Forces Fund has unlocked an incredible education and development experience for our son."
Captain
Anthony Harris, Felix's father
What are your plans after Radley?
I’m hoping to go to Durham or Reading University to study Geology. The other option I’m considering is enlisting in the Royal Marines. My Dad enjoyed working with the Marines and is quite supportive of me joining, but my Mum, Aunty and Granny aren’t quite so keen as they worry how dangerous it is. We will see …
In their own
Felix’s father, Captain Anthony Harris, served with the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers and was seriously injured by an IED in Afghanistan in May 2009. After leaving the army, he has achieved extraordinary feats. Anthony has won gold in the Invictus Games and co-founded Race2Recovery and Row2Recovery, raising significant funds for Help for Heroes and the Tedworth House Concept. Anthony has given up his time to come to Radley to speak to the boys about resilience and overcoming adversity, as well as careers talks.
Anthony reflects on Felix’s time at Radley and the impact of the Armed Forces Fund.
The generosity and kindness of all those who have given to the Armed Forces Fund has unlocked an incredible education and development experience for our son. For a long time the injuries I sustained in Afghanistan meant I couldn’t have dreamed of sending Felix to a school like Radley, but with the support of this Fund, he has been given an opportunity to thrive in an environment that not only educates him to a high standard but has been instrumental in developing him into a young man who will benefit our wider society.
I cannot truly express how grateful my wife and I are for the support of the bursary and I am indebted to all the benefactors. I hope that many more sons and daughters of injured and deceased service personnel can benefit from the bursary and find their place to thrive.
a note from sally thorneloe widow of lt col rupert thorneloe (1983, e)
Felix’s optimism, hope and quiet confidence for the future, shone through when we spoke recently at Radley. It was truly heartwarming to meet him, knowing that the Armed Forces Fund has supported Felix and has had such a positive impact.
I know Rupert would be amazed at the generosity of all those who have supported the Armed Forces Fund, and I’m utterly delighted to see such positivity come out of all that has gone before.
Capt Anthony Harris
Felix and his father at Radley's Service of Remembrance, November 2023. Credit: E. Harris.
Felix meets Sally Thorneloe (L) at the Friends of Radley Lunch event, April 2024.
bursar's reflections
I commented last year on the turbulent times in which we live, and on the timeless quality of a Radley education. A year on and times are no less turbulent!
Indeed, we all know a massive political cloud is hanging over our sector, and we face the near certainty of VAT on school fees. At a sector level, the tragic consequence could be that fewer may benefit from an independent education as places become more expensive and funds for bursaries become limited as schools try and make ends meet. Partnership activities could reduce, and some schools will struggle – tragic given the world class nature of our sector.
But we must not let these things happen at Radley. A Radley education is priceless; we have countless examples of Old Radleians contributing to society and the world around them in so many ways. We must therefore strive to maintain the highest possible quality of education – pastorally, academically, and in the co-curricular, and ensure it remains accessible to all.
"A Radley education is priceless; we have countless examples of Old Radleians contributing to society and the world around them in so many ways."
Some parents will feel squeezed out financially, and we anticipate needing to award more low value bursaries, while maintaining momentum in growing the number of our high value transformational bursaries. We need to target hardship support to where it is most needed and do our best to ensure continuity of education at Radley for those most challenged by the additional cost of VAT. We must also develop our financial model, aided so impressively by donors as well as our growing endowment funds, to ensure that Radley continues to prosper. In this way, Radleians, from all corners of society, will continue to thrive and contribute to the world around them.
With your fabulous support we will make this happen. Thank you to everyone who supports Radley in so many ways; you make an amazing difference.
Andrew Ashton, Bursar
thanking our supporters
The Trustees of the Radley Foundation, the Directors of the Radleian Society (Hong Kong), the members of Council, the Warden and all those in the Foundation team would like to offer their sincere thanks to the 325 donors who have contributed £2,508,702 to our fundraising efforts during this last year – 1st August 2023 to 31st July 2024, making the Foundation’s most successful year to date. Gifts of all sizes really do matter and accumulate to make an important impact.
In the list of names, donors’ names appear within the following groups: Old Radleians (listed by year of matriculation at the College); Parents (current and former); Honorary Members, members of the Common Room and Staff (current and former); and Friends of Radley College. Some donors’ names will appear more than once where they are constituents of more than one group.
We have been careful to omit the names of the 15 donors who have indicated their wish to remain anonymous. We have deliberately avoided giving any indication of the amount of individual gifts to the Foundation and we are grateful for every donation we receive. Please advise us of any changes by contacting Elisabeth Anderson, Development Director at ehma.anderson@radley.org.uk or call +44 1235 543 151.
Radley College is grateful for the generosity of all individuals who have contributed to the College throughout the generations since 1847, when the first donation was received from a well-wisher. The Radley Foundation was established in 2000 and the Radleian Society (Hong Kong) was established in 2016.
Thank you to each of the donors listed over the following pages, we are incredibly grateful for your continued interest in and generosity in supporting Radley.
The list of donors is available in the printed edition of this Impact Report, please contact the Radley Foundation to request a copy at foundation@radley.org.uk
Find
funded places
Funding a Radley education for the most talented boys who would be otherwise unable to afford a place continues to be at the centre of our fundraising ambitions.
As well as fully funded places, we also provide funding to boys at all levels of fee support, from small top-ups of 5% to much larger amounts for Radley parents who need help.
Supporting fees at a variety of levels ensures a demographic spread within the pupil body and this is crucial for maintaining a lively mix of backgrounds and outlooks, bringing new families to Radley alongside those with a generational tie to the College.
120
Radleians supported this year
making a difference together
In the next year, we hope to be supported by more members of the Radley community than ever before.
We will be asking each one of you to help us unlock the potential of more talented and motivated boys by providing them with the resources they need to thrive and succeed.
Keep your eyes peeled for a special delivery from the Radley Foundation, landing on doormats soon.
"Something not often said is the deep effect that funded places have on the collective. In every classroom and in every Social, there seems to be greater diversity of thought, broader global perspectives and more interesting conversations. In my view, the consequences of this shift extend into every facet of Radley life."
Zach, Senior Prefect 2023-24
Watch the interviews: www.radley.org.uk/support/ radley-impact
music school
We are delighted to share that we have broken ground on the project to expand and refurbish the Music School. £250,000 has already been raised towards this important development for the provision of musical teaching and performance.
The work is projected to be complete by Michaelmas Term 2025.
The expanded Music School will:
• Increase the audience seating capacity of Silk Hall to 350.
• Create a Recital Room, with retractable seating for 100.
• Increase the number of practice rooms by 25%
• Create specialty music rooms, including rooms dedicated to music technology, percussion and DJ teaching.
See more plans by scanning the QR code or by visiting bit.ly/RadleyMusicDevelopment
Please contact us to find out about the naming opportunities for various aspects of the project: foundation@radley.org.uk or call +44 1235 548 547.
Above: work underway on Silk Hall in July 2024, and artist’s impressions of the redeveloped Silk Hall and a recording studio following modernisation.
the hugo rutland memorial fund a lifeline for radley families
The Hugo Rutland Memorial Fund (HRMF) was created in 2005 after Hugo’s tragic death in a drowning accident whilst on holiday with his family. Hugo was an Old Radleian (1974, B) who loved Radley and saw his school days as an essential part of his growth as a young man. His donation to the Radley Foundation was the single largest charitable gift Hugo made in his lifetime.
After Hugo's death, his widow, Claire, founded the HRMF at Radley to create a capital fund from which income could be used to provide financial support to current Radley parents who find themselves in unexpected difficulties. The first HRMF Bursary was awarded in September 2007 to a Radleian whose father was struck down by severe illness. Since then, the fund has supported boys of seven Radley families in times of need, enabling them to provide stability for their sons to continue their education at Radley during difficult times.
With the 20th anniversary of Hugo’s death approaching in 2025, Hugo’s son, Archie Rutland (2005, G) reflects on what was the most difficult time for him and his family.
From a young age it was my dream to go to Radley. Following in my father’s footsteps, I could not wait for this new and exciting chapter of my life to begin. The thought of failing my common entrance exams was frightful, I dared not even ponder it.
On a warm summer's day at school in June, we got our results, and I was able to phone my dad's office to deliver the news. It was honestly one of the proudest moments of my life, and I can still remember the
immense joy and relief in his response. Several weeks later I went for my uniform fitting at Shop. Back at home I could hardly stop trying on my new gown, red and white games kit and suit for Chapel. I was ecstatic, unable to contain my excitement.
Just two weeks before I was due to start Radley, we took a last-minute family holiday to Portugal. And then, during a fun day trip to a popular surfing beach, it all came crashing down. My darkest nightmare came true and at the age of 13, my life would change forever. I could not comprehend how we would go on without my dad.
At the time I didn’t think things could have got any worse, but had it not been for the help of a Radley bursary, our education would not have been possible. The thought of losing my father and then being denied a place at my dream school is simply unimaginable. Radley gave me the opportunity to heal and flourish in the wake of such devastation, and I will be eternally grateful for that.
As we all know, life is unpredictable and bad things tend to happen at the worst possible moment. We cannot always prevent the bad things from happening, but we can do our best to be prepared for them.
The Hugo Rutland Memorial Fund is there as a safety net. It supports those facing life changing events who rely on Radley for stability and guidance. Your kind donations will help grow this self-sustaining fund so it can support more bursaries for families at their time of need.
We look forward to relaunching this important fund in 2025 to bolster the funds available to help future Radley families when they need it most.
"When I receive a phone call from a distressed parent at the onset of an unexpected tragedy, it has been enormously reassuring and comforting to be able to offer help in their hour of need out of a fund dedicated for just such a situation. This has made such a profound difference both to parents and their sons. With some awards made over several years it is poignant to report that the HRMF has been accessed in some form in most years since 2007, and sobering that there will always be a need to provide such help."
Andrew Ashton, Bursar
development director's report
Funded places are at the heart of Radley’s strategic vision, not simply to give boys access to a Radley education that they would otherwise not have, but because their involvement in the College benefits all boys. In this Impact Report, we have heard from those within the Radley community who have shared just how inspiring these boys can be.
With school fees being subject to VAT from 1st January 2025, we are as committed as ever to continue our support of and investment in the funded places programme. Through recent land sales Radley’s endowment is well positioned to support families needing small or modest financial support with school fees, and with the generosity of donors, we will continue to fund those needing much greater support. All boys who receive any amount of means-tested funding are here on merit, and we will strive to protect this vital programme.
This year we have been delighted to receive tremendous support for key areas of the school, such as finding innovative ways to increase reading, supporting the Chemistry department and H Social through the Dick Usherwood Fund, enabling all of the boys selected to join the rugby tour to Argentina, and almost half of the 2024 6.2 leaving parents donating their registration deposit to benefit future Radleians. Philanthropic support continues to underwrite the Partnerships programme, adding even greater value for each boy involved. Each initiative funded through donations this year is pivotal to the success of a Radley education.
Over the last year, by taking Radley ‘on tour’, I have been fortunate to meet Old Radleians and Radley families across North America and
THE RADLEY DEVELOPMENT OFFICE
(from L – R)
Henry Cosh Fundraising
Clare Sargent Archives
Lucy Johnsson Stewardship
Elisabeth Anderson Director
Caroline Monaghan Radleian Society
Cassandra Russell Events
Karen Rhodes Futures
Sophie Torrance Communications
Roland Crouch Data
We have recently been joined by a new member of staff, Hasna Bloore, Head of Philanthropy.
Scotland: from San Francisco to New York, and from Edinburgh to Aberdeen. I have been deeply moved by the warm welcome received everywhere, and how Radley is still important, even to those some 8,000 miles distant from the College.
Thank you to all who have contributed to the Radley Foundation this year, it has been a collective effort to achieve our most successful fundraising year to date. I am always grateful to the Trustees of the Radley Foundation and the Directors of the Radleian Society (Hong Kong) for your invaluable support and guidance. Thank you to the Foundation team for your innovation and commitment.
We said goodbye to Selina Woodcock last December and Henry Cosh in July. I would like to thank them both for their tireless efforts, and particularly for delivering a successful campaign for the Chapel and Silk Fund through Covid. We welcomed Roland Crouch in January as Data and Insights Manager, and I am delighted to welcome Hasna Bloore (pictured, right) who joins the Foundation as Head of Philanthropy.
The political headwinds are strong, but we believe that the generosity of the Radley community will enable the College to stand resolute, as it always has. We have only to consider the War Memorial Fund established in 1917, the Hugo Rutland Memorial Fund established in 2005 and the Armed Forces Fund established in 2010. Each borne out of tragedy and loss, and yet as we have seen in this Impact Report their true legacy flourishes in talented and ambitious young men today.
Elisabeth Anderson, Development Director
support us
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Monthly, quarterly or annual donations are especially important, allowing us to plan for the future. Visit radley.org.uk/donate, or scan the QR code below.
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CONTACT US
foundation@radley.org.uk
+44 1235 548 547
radley.org.uk/support-us
The Radley Foundation, Radley College, Abingdon, Oxfordshire OX14 2HR
The Radley Foundation is a registered charity in England and Wales (272671).
Or visit radley.org.uk/donate
"In every classroom and in every Social, there seems to be greater diversity of thought, broader global perspectives and more interesting conversations."
Zach Wickens (Senior Prefect 2023-24)